Saga of the 7th Children

by KnighteWolfe

I am sorry for the delay in getting the next chapter out, but I'm working on it. Keep the faith. It should be out within two or three weeks.

2. First Day of School

Coming at you once again is the Knightewolfe. Here in all its glory is the second installment of my Eva fanfic. As always, the majority of the characters herein are the property of Gainax LTD. They are the creation of Hideaki Anno, the man who created the coolest anime series in the world. Teri-chan is the property of Axel Terizaki, one of the best NGE fanfic writers I have had the honor of reading. If you haven't had the chance, I suggest you read his stories The Child of Love and Bodyheat. Now on with the story!





Neon Genesis Evangelion

Saga of the 7th Children

Chapter 2: First Day of School




Setting: A little background, in Chapter One we were introduced to three new
characters: Kenneth Osako, Toma Kaji, and Mika Hanrahn. As the chapter went
along, Gendo was broken out of his cell in the bowels of the Geofront. Heading to a very well hidden office, the elder Ikari made contact with his captors. Rei Ayanami was shot and two new Eva units were introduced. This chapter takes place about a week after the incident of Gendo's jailbreak. Kenneth and his guardian have found an apartment in Tokyo-3 and have moved in. It is not far from NERV HQ and school. Today Kenneth is starting school. He is in the same class as the other Marduke Institute candidates



It was morning, and Kenneth Osako was slowly waking up. After shutting his alarm clock off, he got up and headed towards the bathroom to take a shower. After taking care of his morning business, Ken proceeded to put on a white button up short sleeve shirt and dark pants.

"Hey Ken, you up yet? I hope you haven't forgotten that you start school today. Breakfast is ready but you don't have that much time to eat it. You are sure that you remember the way to the school and which class you are in?"

"Yeah Toma, I remember the way and I am in class 2-A. I am sharing a class
with the other pilots. You know where my windbreaker is? I haven't seen it since we got back from dinner the other night."

Coming out of the back dressed in a pair of gray and maroon sweatpants and a gray t-shirt, Toma scratched his face and wondered for the umpteenth time if he should shave or not.

"Naw, I haven't seen it. Maybe it is somewhere in the apartment. Oh by the way, the 8th child is here also. Mika arrived the same day we pulled that jailbreak. I think you might see her at school. Unit Bravo will be arriving today and I gotta be there to make sure they get it in the correct launch tunnel."

"Mika Hanrahn, here? Awwww damn. Last time I saw her you and her guardian
just happened to get drunk and pass out on the couch. Her and I had to carry you both to your quarters at Sealab. Due to the fact that there wasn't any other quarters around the base, me and her had to share a bed, and NO, NOTHING HAPPENED, before you ask."

"Relax, I trust you. You are the perfect gentleman. I know you wouldn't have done anything. Besides, if you had tried, she would have hurt you. Badly."

Toma walked into the kitchen and went over to the refrigerator. Grabbing a bottle of orange juice and opening it, he stepped over to the table and proceeded to plop down in a vacant chair. Together at the table the 35 year-old man and the 14 year old boy sat and ate. Each preoccupied with his thoughts. Kenneth looked around as if noticing the size of the apartment for the first time. As he stood up, he looked down the hallway to the back. Noticing two other doors, Kenneth wondered what they were for.

"Ah, Colonel, can you tell me how many bedrooms this apartment has.? I feel as if it is a bit big just for the two of us."

"Oh, I was wondering when you would notice. To answer your question, there
are four bedrooms. Our other two roomies should be moving their stuff
here later today. After school, come straight home so you can help them move in. Afterwards you have a sync test for Director Ikari."

"Who are our roommates going to be?"

"You're a smart boy Kenneth, figure it out for yourself. However, right now you need to leave so you can make it to school on time.", replied a very smug looking Toma.

Looking at the clock, Kenneth jumped up and ran out the apartment, only stopping
to grab a bottle of grape juice.

"DAMMIT COLONEL, WHY MUST YOU ALWAYS MAKE ME LATE!", tossed Kenneth,
over his shoulder as he ran out the door.




At the school, class representative Hikari Horaki, was going through her school
correspondance. As the class rep, she received many memos from the faculty and staff of the school. Today as she was going through the notices, one of them caught her eye.

"Hmm, we are getting a new student. I wonder if he is another pilot."

As she was taking care of some final business, Asuka and Shinji walked in. Obviously joined at the hip or the lip in this case. They just happened to be sharing a kiss as they walked through the door. Hikari looked over at Rei, who was being her usual self and staring out the window.

"Hi Hikari, how are you this morning?", asked a very cheerful Asuka.

"I am fine Asuka, you seem very happy today. Anything happen that I should
know about?"

"Oh yeah, Teri-chan spoke her first word today. Unfortunately she said da-da. But at least she is starting to speak."

"I am happy for you, it shall only be a matter of time before she is saying mama. How did Shinji take it?"

"Oh, Shinji took it real well. He is going to have a shit-eating grin on his face all day today. Well I can't begrudge him this one. He deserves it. Nobody deserves it more than him."

Across the room, the main subject of Asuka's and Hikari's conversation was being
pounded on his back by a deliriously happy Touji Suzehara.

"Shinji, I am sooooo happy for you. She finally said her first word and it was daddy. I feel so jealous now. Kensuke needs to hear this. He will be so upset that he didn't have his camera there to record it."


As the two boys talked and joked about their friend, Kensuke came walking into the room. Walking next to him and holding his hand, was Mika Hanrahn. In her week since she had arrived, she had stolen the poor boys heart. Although she wouldn't admit it, Mika was sure that Kensuke had also done some heart larceny. Swiping her heart when she wasn't looking. This had made both Shinj and Touji happy. Their friend had finally found a girl who had the same interests as he did.

Shortly after the two new lovebirds sat down, the sensei came in and Hikari went through her usual routine.

"Rise."
"Bow."
"Sit."

As the class was sitting down in response to the class rep, the sensei was at his desk straightening up some papers and getting things ready for his lecture. After taking the role call, he looked out into the hallway and nodded.

"Class, I have some news for you, we have a new student. Come in and introduce yourself please."

Feeling a bit nervous, Ken walked into the classroom, wrote his name on the board and introduced himself.

"Good morning, my name is Kenneth Osako. I am pleased to meet you all."

From across the room a gasp is heard and he looks up to see who it was. Once he caught sight of the phantom gasped, Ken's mouth dropped.

"KENNNIIEEEEEE!!! Long time no see. It has been awhile.", yelped Mika to the consternation of the teacher and Kensuke.

"Ms. Hanrhan, out in the hall now. We don't yell in this class. Even if you do know who it is."

Feeling a bit subdued, Mika picked up a water bucket and walked out of the classroom, but not before muttering something to Ken as she passed. Ken shut his mouth and looked out at the indifferent faces.

"Well, Mr. Osako, you can take the seat over by Miss Ayanami. I expect you to have caught up with everyone else by the end of the week. Now go take a seat."

"Yessir, I will sir.", stuttered Ken as he headed for the indicated seat.

Once in his seat, Ken hooked up his laptop to the desk connections and turned it on. Finding the list of assignments he had to catch up on, he set to work, trying to get some of the work done as the teacher started his lecture.

So into the work that he was doing, at first Ken didn't notice the small tone announcing that he had a few messages. Activating the message queue, he started to read through the accumulated messages. A few were normal school notices; he read the title and some of the subjects and promptly deleted them. The next two were from Toma, asking how he liked the class and innocuous stuff like that. Kenneth decided to save those.

A few seats in front of him, Rei had turned in her chair slightly to the new student. The movement went almost unnoticed. Shinji had noticed because he had been staring out the window and saw the slight movement. Asuka had noticed, because she had seen Shinji turn towards Rei. These movements were unknown to Ken because he had read the note that the class representative had sent him. He looked up and saw Hikari nodding her head. Then she looked back up to the front of the class.

Looking forward, Ken noticed that the girl in front of him had blue hair. Since he was unsure of the topic of the lecture (it seemed to keep jumping from one point to the other), Ken decided to look out the window. When he turned towards the window, Ken felt his blood run cold. Staring at him in the reflection of the window was a pair of red eyes.

Rei looked at the violet eyes reflecting in the window. Satisfied that she recognized them, she turned her attention back to the scene outside. Unbeknownst to her, her right hand clenched into a fist. The only person to notice this behavior was Shinji. He had just turned back to the front when he saw Rei unconsciously make a fist.

Turning to his computer, Shinji typed a short note to Asuka.

"Hello sweetheart, how are you. Got something I want to tell you about."

Asuka, looked at her computer and then glanced at Shinji. Her reply was fast and not too happy.

"WELL IT IS ABOUT TIME YOU STOPPED STARING AT WONDERGIRL. You were staring at her for about ten minutes. Must I remind you that I will not allow that type of wandering eye from you."

"Will you wait a damn minute Asuka, you are jumping to conclusions. AGAIN. Now you know that I love you and Teri with all of my heart and I would never do such a thing. I was just letting you know that Rei is making a fist. And she seems not to realize it."

"Oh, now that is interesting. I wonder if she is losing her mind."

This conversation went on for a few minutes, degenerating into more personal notes to each other. Finally they finished up with Shinji promising to eat lunch with her in their favorite spot.

The lunch bell rang and the class scrambled out to go fill themselves. Shutting off his laptop, Kenneth started to walk out of the room when he was wrapped up in a small bear hug. The person giving the hug planted a light kiss on his cheek. Knowing of only one person who greeted him like that, Ken allowed a small smile to cross his face and turned to speak.

"Hello Mika, like you said, long time no see.",

Still holding on to him, Mika smiled at Kenneth, to Kensuke's consternation.

"Yes it has been a long time Mr. Osako. You never even wrote me, not even after the incident. Now I see you here in Tokyo-3, in my class no less. What are you doing here?"

"I was ordered here, so was Colonel Toma. He is closer to his brother now. Although I don't know why he isn't happy about it."

Wandering out of the classroom, Mika and Ken came face to face with Rei. A little bit unnerved, Ken and Mika stepped around Rei and continued out. A few minutes later they were seated in the cafeteria talking about old times.

"Do you remember when my guardian Tasha Smith got drunk with Toma and they both passed out on the couch?"

"Oh yeah that was funny. We got stuck having to share that bed. Toma was reminding me of that this morning. How is Tasha anyway? Is she still a lieutenant commander. Or has she been promoted yet?"

"She is still a lieutenant commander and happy to be one. You know we have a sync test this afternoon right?"

"Yes I do. After class, I have to help someone move into the apartment. I don't know who it is though. Maybe Toma will tell me later."

Unseen by Kenneth, Mika was trying to smother a laugh.

"Yeah maybe. Hey, you want me to introduce you to everybody here?"

"Sure, if it is no problem."

Mika said it wasn't so they got up from the table they had been sharing and went outside to where the rest of the group was. Shinji and Asuka were sitting at a picnic table that they were sharing with Touji, Hikari, and Kensuke. All of them except Kensuke had smiles on their faces. Mika walked up to Kensuke and kissed him on his cheek. Changing his scowl to a small smile.

"Hiya everyone. I want to introduce you to an old friend of mine. Kenneth Osako. Ken, this is the gang. Over there is Shinji Ikari and Asuka Langley Sohryu, across from them is Touji Suzehara and Hikari Horaki. And this cutie here is Kensuke Aida. Everyone, Ken and I met in the United States one week and become fast friends.", said Mika indicating who was whom.


Everybody said hi or hello and said they were glad to see him. Shortly afterwards, the bell rang for the return class.


After class, Ken waited out front for Toma, as he was waiting he looked around getting his bearings and noticed that Rei was watching him. He looked into her red eyes for a minute before turning away.

"Yo, Ken, you ready to help our new roomies to move in?"

"Yeah, as ready as I will ever be. When am I going to find out who they are?"

Toma said nothing and just smiled. Sighing quietly to himself, Ken hopped into the black Volvo C70 (hey it will be a classic in 2015. Besides. I like Volvos, ya gotta problem with it? :)). Pulling away from the curb with a screech of tires and some tire smoke, Toma and Ken sped away from the school. Arriving at their apartment, Toma went into the kitchen and opened up a can of juice. Ken, on the other hand, went to his room and changed into a pair of sweat pants and a sweatshirt. After changing, Ken walked back towards the kitchen. Once in the small kitchen, he dropped into a chair and waited as Toma tossed a soda over to him.

"Now who is joining us and why don't you tell me?"

"Why spoil the surprise, I will let them tell you themselves. They should be arriving any minute now."

Toma was cut off by the sound of the door chime, announcing the presence of a couple of visitors.

"Hmm, that should be them now. Be a nice guy and go open the door. I will be out there shortly."

Kenneth groaned and walked out of the kitchen. Going through the bare living room he walked over to the front door and opened it. His mouth dropped when he saw who it was. Ken realized why Toma had been sandbagging him about who the new roommates where. There standing on the other side, dressed in a pair of jean shorts and a t-shirt, was Mika Hanrahn. Standing next to her was a beautiful woman with a tan and long, flowing brown hair done up in a ponytail.

"I know I look good, but I hate it when guys drool over me. Hello Ken, how are you doing?"

"I... I... I am fine Tasha, it has been a long time. So I take it that you and Mika are moving in.?

Lieutenant Commander Tasha Smith smiled, and in a voice that could launch a thousand ships, command respect, and promised many nights of passion-filled whispers replied,

"You've grown up since last time I saw you. Of course, last time I saw you was shortly after waking up and seeing you and Mika asleep in the same bed."

Ken turned a very interesting shade of scarlet, while the girl next to Tasha went into a sudden coughing jag.

"Well since everybody remembers that moment, why don't y'all come on in? Ken don't just stand there, invite them on in. Tash, you want anything to drink, I got a bottle of wine that is just screaming for me to open it."

The two females walked in after Ken moved out of the way. After stopping to plant a kiss on his check and give him a hug, Tasha walked over to Toma and wrapped her arms around his neck.

"Wine, isn't that what happened last time. Maybe after we get everything moved in. Right now, I want a glass of ice water."

"One ice water coming up. Anything for you milady.", answered Toma with a crooked smile. "Ken, why don't you show Mika to her room and give her the grand tour of the place. After that is done we will start moving their things up."

"Okay, just remember that we are supposed to be moving stuff not running off and christening the rooms.", retorted Kenneth, snidely while giving Mika a knowing grin.

"Well we know that they won't be of much use tonight. Come on Ken, show me around!"

Ken smiled and nodded okay. Mika latched on to his arm and started to walk with him as he started to show her around.



On the other side of town, Rei Ayanami was lying on her bed, contemplating. What she was contemplating was anyone's guess. Rolling over, she looked at the ceiling.

"What do I feel? How should I feel? Should I feel anger, I don't know what anger feels like. If I do feel anger, what should I do about it? Am I one who feels anger? The 7th child shot me. Did he do it on his own or was he following orders? Whose orders, where is Commander Ikari? He could help me with my feelings."

These questions and many others ran through her mind. After awhile, Rei fell asleep.

Over at the Katsuragi household, Shinji and Asuka were just finishing up cleaning the kitchen after dinner. Misato was passed out on the couch. Baby Teri was in her high chair. The mess around the chair showing the Teri had just been fed. Finishing the dishes, Shinji walked over to his daughter and played with her for a minute.

"Asu-chan, can you give me a hand with Misato, she seems to have passed out again."

"Sure Shinji, give me a minute here."

After throwing away a bunch of old beer cans, Shinji and Asuka walked over to their roommate/guardian. With ease, the two lifted Misato up to her feet, draped her arms around their shoulders and half-carried half-walked her down the hall to her room. After laying her gently on her bed and walking out of her room, Shinji closed the door. Once the door was closed, he wrapped his arms around Asuka and nuzzled her neck.

"You keep doing that and we are going to have to get another cradle.", joked Asuka.

"Well okay, although in the future I wouldn't mind that."

Continuing on into the kitchen, the happy couple picked up their daughter. Heading towards the front room, Asuka grabbed the remote off the floor.

"Tonight what are we going to watch? Lessee, last night you tricked me into watching something. Now how am I going to repay you for that?"

Perusing the channel guide, she stopped at a name that seemed familiar to her. Looking it up, she recognized it as one of her favorite classic movies. Plopping down on the couch, she rested her head on Shinji's shoulder.

"Now I got you so you cannot escape from me. You are going to watch this movie or else!", exclaimed Asuka as Shinji groaned.

Teri gurgled happily; as she watched her parents interact. Putting her little head on her father's other shoulder the baby girl mimicked her mother. Trapped between Asuka and the daughter he adored, Shinji resigned himself to the fate of watching a romantic movie.


Back on the other side of town, Mika and Ken were putting the finishing touches on her room. Together with their guardians (who, contrary to popular belief, actually helped), they had managed to get Mika and Tasha moved in twice as much time as they thought they were going to. Now the two were heading towards the front of the apartment. Once there they collapsed on the couch.

"Thanks, Ken. We needed the help. At least Toma and Tasha did some of the work and didn't leave us with all of it."

Getting up and walking to the kitchen for two sodas, Ken passed one to Mika. After passing her the drink, he sat on the floor with his back up against the couch. Taking a sip of his soda, Ken just happened to look at the clock up on the wall. He did a double take when he saw the time.


"OH SHIT, look at the time. We are late very late. My god, he is going to kill us.", snapped Ken choking on his soda.

Mika looked up at the clock and started, unfortunately she spilled some of her soda on Ken's head.

"Oops, sorry I didn't mean to do that. Lets hurry. You go jump in the shower while I go and bang on Toma's door."

Running into the back, they separated at the end of the hallway. Ken hurrying towards his room to grab a fresh change of clothes while Mika ran over to another door. From behind the door, she could hear some muffled moaning.

"Of all the... dammit, do those two ever think of anything more than sex. Sheez, they are like rabbits when they get together."

Knocking on the door, she had the pleasure of hearing a muffled curse from behind the door. Although it was kinda hard to distinguish, to Mika it sounded like Tasha.

"Excuse me for interrupting the reunion, but we have a sync test to go to and we are running late. Right now, Ken is taking a shower and will be ready shortly. Now if y'all don't mind I really want to go ahead with this test."

Moving back from the door, Mika leaned herself against the far wall. Shortly after that, the door sprung open. Coming out from the room was a rumpled looking Tasha and an even more rumpled looking Toma. Both had silly grins on their faces. (Yeah we know why they are smiling, heh heh). Also coming from the room was a hint of a slightly musky smell.

"Okay, lets go then, we'll take my car.", stated Toma.



45 minutes later, Mika and Kenneth found themselves in the pilots' dressing room. Kenneth was looking around the room as he put on his black and gold plug suit. Pressing the buttons that sealed it, Ken folded his clothes and put them in the locker assigned to him. As he walked out, he saw Shinji's locker and another locker belonging to Touji. What confused him was, in addition to those two lockers and his own, there was another locker in there. This locker looked brand new.

"I wonder who that locker is for.", wondered Ken.

Deciding not to worry about it, he came out of the locker room and came face to face with Maroon and Gray plug suit that did wonders for the body it was on.


"Quit drooling Ken, besides I already have a boyfriend.", snapped Mika.

Mika was amazed at how good, Ken looked with his plug suit on. Then chiding herself for even having such thoughts, she pulled her camera around from where she had it and snapped a picture of Ken. Disappearing back inside the female locker room to put her camera away, Mika came back. Ken was still standing in the same spot. The flash had surprised him.

"Come on Ken, we got to get there. Toma and Tasha are waiting."

To herself, Mika thought about whom to give the picture to when it was developed. After walking for about 5 minutes, the two children found themselves in Eva cages. For reasons unknown to them, Evangelion units Alpha and Bravo were kept in the same area as Evangelion Units 00, 01, 02, and 03. (Gendo is a sneaky bastard when he wants to be, isn't he).

Next to the black and gold Unit Alpha was Unit Bravo. Unit Bravo looked like Unit 02. The main difference was the fact that it had two hornlike appendages on its head. In the harsh fluorescent light, the Maroon and Gray of Unit Bravo and the Black and Gold of Unit Alpha glistened. As each of the children stood looking at their chosen avatars of war, Gendo Ikari came over the P.A. System and ordered them into their entry plugs. When they complied, he walked over to the techs overseeing the operation.

"Activate Evangelion Unit Alpha and Evangelion Unit Bravo. Once activated, hack into the systems in central dogma. I want Katsuragi, Fuyutski, and Dr. Akagi to learn the results of these tests. Once they are activated, send them to training level three and start there."

"Yes Director Ikari."

As the techs went through the activation sequence, the two pilots felt their minds become one with the units. The eyes on Unit Alpha lit up first, followed closely by the 3 eyes of the Maroon and Gray Evangelion Unit.

"Sync ratio of Pilot Osako 85%.", reported one tech.

"Sync ratio of Pilot Hanrahn 84.5%.", replied another tech.

"Move units Alpha and Bravo to the third training level. Run them through the obstacle course one at a time at first. Then send them in at the same time. Give them each angel that we have faced up to now. I also want to see how the would fare against Units 01 and 02. At the end of the training, surprise them with the first of the possible alternate angels."

"Yessir."



Soon, one by one, the two mighty war machines were moved onto an elevator and moved to a lower level.

"Okay, you two. Get ready. Kenneth, you get to tackle the obstacle course first. There are targets so be on your guard all the time. If you see either of the other Eva units simulated as you run the course, destroy them. After the first few solo runs by both of you, you will get to run the course together as a team. Good luck.", said Toma across the channel.

When they finally arrived at their destination, Kenneth and Mika walked their Eva units off the elevator and into a room. Once in the room, Mika stopped Unit Bravo and started to check her weapons. The progressive crossbow was slung over her units shoulder and the quiver of bolts was strapped across Unit Bravo's back. Mika also had a pair of progressive knives in their usual locations. Finishing up, she watched as Ken drew his units' massive progressive Claymore sword from a scabbard across his units back. Activating it, Ken stalked his unit to the course.

"Be careful Kenny. Good luck."

"Don't worry Mika, I will be fine."


And with that, Ken marched his unit through the door. Once in the exercise area, he started to move around and get his bearings. The area simulated the city above. Ken snickered as he moved past a model of the municipal junior high school. As he went by the school, the first simulated enemy attacked. Ken looked at the replica of the Third Angel. Activating his A.T. Field, Ken watched as the simulated angel tried to grab his units' head. Back stepping, Ken slashed at the target with his Progressive Claymore. As the sword bounced off the angels' field, it jumped one street over and tried to attack Ken from behind. Not expecting this, Ken was knocked down. Destroying one of the walls of his school in the process. As he got back up, the angel had turned and headed towards the simulated geo-front. Putting his sword back in its scabbard, Ken started to get angry. Opening one of the armament buildings, Ken grabbed an Eva-sized assault rifle. Unloading a full clip into the back of the angel, ken succeeded in getting its attention. As the simulated angel stopped and turned towards the distraction, Ken dropped the rifle and started his unit running.


"I got you now, you bastard. This is going to feel real good!!!", shouted Ken.

With what he called his rebel yell, Ken launched Unit Alpha into a tackle. Connecting with the angel and bearing it to the ground, Ken saw the red orb that was his main target. Pulling out one of the progressive knives, Ken rammed the knife into the orb with as much force as he could bring. This shattered the ball and the simulated angel exploded. After the explosion, Ken brought his unit to its feet, only to be flattened to the ground once again. Bringing the head of the black and gold Eva unit up, Ken noticed that he had been double-teamed by simulated Evangelion Units 01 and 02.



In a control room far above the simulated battle going on, Gendo Ikari sat at a small console and watched as Unit Alpha rose back to its feet. Turning its head to keep units 01 and 02 in sight (the two units had separated in two different directions). Ikari smirked. Standing next to him were Toma Kaji and Tasha Smith. Keeping his eyes on the screen as he watched Ken attack a simulated unit 02 and put it out of commission temporarily, Gendo cut his eyes to the colonel and cleared his throat.


"Colonel, I have another 'special' mission for you to do. Now that both of you are here, I need you to deliver a package to my son, my daughter-in-law, and my granddaughter. This package is of utmost importance. Do you think you can do it?"

"Of course, we can do it tonight if you want. Do you want Ken and Mika to do it?"

"Yes that will do nicely. Later I need your charge to undertake another special assignment. He will have to do it alone though. You understand, Colonel? He will receive his instructions for that one from me."

"Yessir, Director. No problem."

Turning his attention back to the screen in front of him, Gendo grinned as he watched a simulated Unit 01 and Unit Alpha go head to head in what looked like a duel.


"Add Eva Unit 00 to the arena. Have it attack Unit Alpha with the sniper rifle. Shortly after that, bring Unit Bravo into the arena. Pit Unit Bravo against Unit 02.", said Gendo to one of the console techs.

"Yessir.", replied the tech as he bent to do what he had been ordered.


Up in central Dogma, Dr. Akagi was relaxing with Maya, Shigeru, and Hyuga. All four of them were drinking coffee. Maya had just finished taking a sip of her cup when she noticed some action on her computer monitor.


"Ahh, sempai, I am getting some weird signals on my console. It seems that someone has hacked into the system."

"What, that is impossible!!", sputtered Ritsuoko.

"Yes it is, but it is happening.", tapping a handful of keys, Maya added," it seems to be coming from inside the facility. From what I can understand it is the picture from a camera. However, I don't recognize the location."

"Dammit, what is he up to this time. The vice-commander chewed out all of the security staff for letting Gendo escape. Last I heard, they hadn't found him.", fumed Dr. Akagi.


To Maya and the other two techs she said:

"Get a location on where that signal is coming from! Hyuga put it up on the main screen. Shigeru call Misato and have her report to Central Dogma."

When she was through with her orders, Ritsuoko picked up the phone and called the commander.

"Fuyutski here."

"Commander can you report to the control room, we are getting something weird on the main screen. I think Gendo has hacked into the system."

By now, Hyuga had the main screen up and running. When he glanced up at it, he gasped. Hearing this, Ritsuoko turned towards the screen and almost dropped the handset. From the other reactions around her, she realized that Maya and Shigeru had seen the same thing.

"Kouzou, it seems that someone is running a sync test and an exercise. Gendo sent us the camera view of two units battling it out with simulations of Units 00, 01, and 02."

On the other end of the line, Dr. Akagi heard a choked off breath.

"Something wrong, commander?"

"What color are the units that are battling the simulations?", asked a very worried Fuyutski.

"One is black and gold, while the other is Maroon and Gray. Hold on we are getting data readouts on the two unknown units. SHEEIT, both of these pilots have high sync ratios, one is 99.5% while the other is 98.2%. Asuka is not going to be happy about this."

"I will be right there. Record the exercise if you can. I will be there in 5 minutes.", said the commander before hanging up.


Back in the other control room, one of the techs turned to the desk where Gendo sat with Toma standing next to him and Tasha perched on the corner of his desk. Letting the director know that the battle was being recorded and asking if he should cut the recording off.


"No, let them record for now. They need to see this."

Taking his hands from in front of his mouth, Gendo placed them on the desk and looked at Toma.


"Toma, you and her will have to meet with Misato and whomever she brings. I suggest inviting her to lunch.", said Ikari indicating Tasha with a jerk of his head.

"I have already booked the reservation. This ought to be interesting. What do you think Tash?"

"Sure, why not. It will give me a chance to wear my new dress. I got an idea. Why don't we make it a dinner and bring Ken and Mika along. How does that sound?", answered the lady as she hopped off of Gendo's desk.

Gendo, sighed although he made sure no one heard it. He was about to chastise Tasha for sitting on his desk.


"Okay, no problem. Is that fine by you Director?"

"Yes."



Back inside the battle, Ken had his hands full going against the simulated unit 01. Each had done damage to the other. Now they were locked in a test of strength. Suddenly relaxing his hold and letting Unit 01 push him over, Ken's unit fell on its back. In doing so, it caught the simulated Eva Unit 01 by surprise.

"I gotcha. We play by my rules now, buddy."

As his unit fell over, he planted his foot into the torso of unit 01 and heaved with all of his strength. Relinquishing its hold, the simulated Eva unit flew over the prone Unit Alpha and crashed into a nearby building. Turning to see how Mika was doing, Ken felt his unit struck by what he thought was shrapnel. Looking at his scanner, he noticed that the blue prototype was shooting at him.


"I got this one, go ahead and take care of that other unit.", grunted Mika.

"Okay. At least this is only a simulation. I don't think I could bear to attack the real one."

"Ohh, is that the strike of Cupid's arrow striking home, I hear. Ken. I believe you have fallen for the first child. Maybe I should set you up with her. That ought to be interesting."

"You do and I will get you. Remember, I know where you live and I know where you will probably hide your diary."

"YOU DIRTY BASTARD, YOU WOULDN'T!!",

Ken only smiles and continues towards his target. Using the buildings as cover and dodging when he was in the open, Ken finally reached the position he had been trying to get to. Rising up, Ken charged Unit 00 and succeeded in ramming his shoulder into the side of the simulated Eva Unit. Once it hit the ground, all of the other simulated targets powered down, ending the simulation.

Walking back to Unit Bravo and Mika, Ken paused and took a deep breath. Once he reached Mika, he held out Unit Alphas' hand helping the other unit to its feet from where it had fallen.

"Damn, that was a tough fight. Hell I don't even know if I could have won. No wonder these two are the pride of NERV.", said Mika as she indicated units 01 and 02.

"Be on your toes, you never know what to expect."

Ken's warning couldn't have come at a better time. For as the reached the turn for the door back to the cages, their targeting computers went off and locked onto a new target. Dropping into a defensive crouch, both units turned towards the threat. Once they saw it, their jaws dropped. Standing a few yards ahead was a target that they had never seen before. Although they didn't know, both Ken and Mika guessed that this was one of the so-called alternative angels. For a second, Units Alpha and Bravo tensed to attack. All of a sudden, the target disappeared and the director appeared on the communications screen. After brusquely ordering the two to report to the control room, he disappeared.

"Damn, there goes my shower, and I had planned to wash my hair."

"Oh well Mika, thems' the breaks."


Back up in central dogma, the crowd that had gathered was openmouthed in astonishment. They had just watched the battle between all four Eva's come to an end. Up on the top level, Fuyutski was standing up and looking in shock. Next to him, Misato (Shigeru had finally gotten a hold of her. It seems that the fight had sobered her up) had fallen back into a chair.

"My god. I hope some one recorded that. Shinji and Asuka have got to see this. Asuka is going to blow a fuse when she sees this.", murmured a shocked Misato.

At this time, Kaji had decided to make his appearance known. He had quietly walked in and saw the last of the fight. After a few minutes of stunned surprise, he cleared his throat and looked up and the top level.

"Uhh Misato, I just got an email from Toma."

This caused Misato to jump into action. With a glare on her face that could kill, she looked at Kaji and stated:

"What, why does he have the balls to send you a message. He must know about what we have just seen.", screamed Misato in a volume that spoke of how pissed off she was.

"It seems, my dear lady, that we have been invited to a dinner with him and his companion. He goes on to say that Asuka and Shinji are invited also."

"When is this dinner? I want to see him so I can rip him limb from limb."

"Tomorrow night. I believe this is going to be formal. Want me to pick up Shinji and take him to get a tuxedo. You, Asuka, and Teri can go shopping also."

"Yeah, seems like a nice idea. Pick them up at school during lunch tomorrow. Bring Rei also. I want to see her reaction to the new pilots."

Nodding his understanding, Ryoji stepped out. Turning to the commander, Misato was about to ask a question when she noticed the look on Fuyutski's face.

"What is it, commander? Is there a problem?", asked a worried Misato.

"It seems that Dr. Akagi and I have a meeting to go to tomorrow also. I just received this a minute ago.", replied Kouzou as he handed a sheet of paper to his Vice-commander. Misato read it and began to turn purple. In her rage, Misato punched a hole in one of the monitors on their level.

"RITSU, did you read this?", Misato shouted down to the head of the technical division.


"Yes I read it. It seems that the commander and I will be meeting with the person who sent this while you are at dinner.", returned Dr. Akagi without turning around.


"Okay everybody, lets close it down and get some rest. We can take care of this tomorrow. Is that understood?", asked Kouzou Fuyutski as he glanced around at the lower tiers of the control room.

Assorted "yes sirs" and "yes commander" floated back up to him. Nodding to everyone, he left the control room.
________________________________________________________________________________

The Next Day.



It had been a rough day at school for Ken. When Ken arrived at school, it seemed to him that he was getting the cold shoulder from the rest of the class. The only ones who actually paid any attention to him were Mika and her boyfriend Kensuke. At lunch the three of them sat outside at one of the picnic tables, Mika was sitting on her boyfriend's lap and the two of them were preoccupied with each other. Finally Ken left the happy couple and went back to his seat. Inside he saw Rei and tried to start a conversation but gave it up after receiving monosyllabic answers from her. From that point on, Kenneth withdrew into himself. Only talking when asked by the professor. After school, Ken started to walk on home. Halfway there, his guardian pulled up and told him to hop in.

"Hey, how was your day?", asked Toma.

"It was okay. If you could call being ignored by the majority of the class okay."

"Don't worry about it. Right now we are running out to pick up my formal uniform."


Hearing this, Ken's demeanor changed. Wondering what was so special that Toma needed his formal uniform he asked him.

"Well, the director ordered me and Tasha to take Colonel Katsuragi out to dinner. It was suggested that we bring you and Mika while she brought Rei, Asuka and Shinji. Unfortunately, I let Tasha pick the restaurant. Stupid me forgot that women are wont to pick a restaurant where there is a dress code. Ergo, I need my formal uniform and you need a tuxedo. While we are out, we will go by the tuxedo store and let you pick one."

"Wait a minute, wouldn't I have to be measured and stuff first? And why do I have to go to this dinner? Nobody told me about this today."

"Yeah I know, it seems that Asuka, Shinji, and Rei got to see the scores that you and Mika received in that simulation last night. Needless to say, Asuka wasn't happy about it. It is rumored that she highly upset. As for your sizing up at the tuxedo store, I had your measurements faxed and they should have a selection ready for you to choose from."

"So who all is going to be at this dinner?", asked a fuming Ken.

"Well you, me, Mika, Tasha, Colonel Katsuragi, Asuka, Rei, Shinji, and my dear brother Ryoji. I also heard that Shini and Asuka might bring their daughter Teri.", replied Toma after a moment.


Catching a slight hesitation when Toma mentioned his brother, Kenneth planned to ask about it. However he wasn't given the chance, for they had just pulled up in front of the cleaners. Telling Ken that he would be right back, Toma left the engine running and trotted inside. A few minutes later he came back out carrying his formal uniform. Hanging it up in the backseat, Toma hopped back into the car. Stepping on the accelerator, Toma sped away from the curb with a loud squeal coming from his tires.

"Next stop, the tuxedo place. I don't know what colors that Tasha and Mika are planning on wearing, so play it conservative when you pick out a color for the tie and cummerbund. Or are you going to wear a vest instead of a cummerbund?"

"I don't know. I will have to see what they offer before I make my choices."

"Well okay, at least dinner isn't until 10:00. It seems that the restaurant that was picked has a live band. Knowing Tasha as well as I do, she is going to want to dance."

"Ha ha ha, so you gotta suffer as well as I do.", snorted Ken.

"Oh shut up. Here we are, now lets go see what kind of penguin suits they have for you to choose from."

Parking the black Volvo, Toma and Ken got out of the car and walked over to the tuxedo store. Stepping inside, Kenneth was amazed at the different kinds of tuxedos there were. Stopping at a display, Ken looked at the set that the mannequin was wearing. The tuxedo on display had a single breasted jacket. The jacket buttoned all the way up to the neck. The trousers were triple-pleated and had a satin stripe running along the seam of each leg. At the neck of the jacket was a slightly martial collar. Toma, had stepped over to the counter and talked the slightly indifferent sales rep. After a minute of conversation, the sales rep snapped up and began to kowtow to Toma. Looking around, Toma spotted Ken and saw what he was looking at. After several minutes of conversation, the rep grabbed a few of his sales people and sent them into the back of the store.

"Yo, Ken is that the tuxedo you like? They just happened to have a few of those in the back. What color would you like?", asked, Toma as he walked up to Ken.

"Ye... ye... yeah, although I think it would look better in a grayish color. At least with this tuxedo, I won't have to worry about what a cummerbund, vest or a bowtie. If I wanted to, I could wear this tuxedo with the top button of the jacket buttoned and the rest unbuttoned, the fall of the jacket as it is open allows for that."

"Hmmm, you have a good eye."


As the two discussed the merits of tuxedos' a slightly different conversation was going on at another store. This store however catered to women and was on the other side of the shopping center. Mika and Tasha had just walked in. Mika was asking Tasha if she could invite her boyfriend to the dinner and Tasha had approved it. Unknown to them, Misato and Asuka were shopping for a dress for Rei, who was at the moment standing in front of a mirror. Misato and Asuka were arguing.

"Dammit, Misato what is wrong with that dress! I think it is just right for wondergirl. This is the fifth dress that we have looked at. I still haven't picked mine out yet and I still need to get one for Teri-chan. Can you make up your mind?", said a very miffed Asuka Sohryu Langley.


"Asuka, can you do me a favor and SHUT THE HELL UP FOR ONCE. I REALLY DON"T WANT TO HEAR YOUR FUCKING OPINION ON THIS!", snapped a visibly pissed off Misato.

Asuka shut up. While Teri looked around. Meanwhile Rei was stoic as ever, standing in front of the mirror.

"Colonel, why must I wear this?", asked Rei quietly.

"Rei, you must wear it because you are going to dinner with us. The restaurant we are eating at has a dress code. Therefore you must abide by that dress code. Besides, I figure that you need something to liven up your wardrobe, just in case some boy takes a liking to you."

Hearing this, Asuka just grunted. Misato glared at her roommate then turned her attention back to the blue-haired girl standing on the platform. The dress Rei was wearing now was a dove grey in color. It fell to just below Rei's knees and had one shoulder uncovered. One of the accessories that went with it was a light shawl that could be used to cover the shoulder that was out in the open.

"Rei, do you like that dress?"

"Yes Colonel, this dress is okay.", replied Rei in her usual monotone.

At that moment, Mika and Tasha came around the corner. Mika looked up just in time to keep from running into Asuka as she kneeled down and played with her daughter.

"Oh, hi Asuka. How are you?", stuttered Mika.

Asuka looked up wondering who had addressed her. Seeing that is was Mika, Asuka straightened up and smiled while picking Teri up out of her stroller.

"Hi Mika, how are you doing? What are you doing here?"

"Oh nothing, I am here to pick up a dress. I have a dinner date tonight. How about you and who is this cute little girl?"

"Oh, you and Kensuke have a date tonight, interesting. This is my daughter Teri. She is 10 months old and just as pretty as I was when I was her age. Right now, we are here picking out a dress for Rei, Misato, and I. We have a dinner engagement ourselves. Oh, by the way, this is my roommate Misato Katsuragi.", replied Asuka as she indicated Rei and Misato.

Mika turned to Misato and extended her hand. Misato turned and looked at the outstretched hand. Taking in the brown hair and grey eyes, Misato smiled.

"Hello, my name is Mika Hanrahn and I go to school with Asuka and Rei.", said Mika. Indicating Tasha, Mika continued, "This is my roommate Tasha Smith."

"Nice to meet you and you to Tasha. Mika are you the girl who has captured Mr. Aida's heart. Asuka told me all about it."

"Yes, Kensuke is my boyfriend and I love him a lot. Right now I am looking for a dress for tonight. As I told Asuka, I have a dinner tonight with him. Hello Rei, that is a nice dress."

"Thank you.", replied Rei.

"Okay, we will leave you to your shopping. Hope to see you tomorrow at school.", said Asuka.

"Yeah okay, see you tomorrow Asuka. Nice meeting you Misato."

During this time, Tasha hadn't said a word except to mumble hello as she was introduced. As they walked away, she leaned over to Mika and asked a question.
Mika answered it and they headed towards a set of racks and started to browse.



Back across town, Toma and Ken had picked out Ken's tuxedo and now the two were sitting at a restaurant eating an afternoon snack. They had chosen a table right on the edge of the sidewalk. At the time, Ken was drinking a soda while Toma was sipping on a cup of tea. They had been chatting about some of their previous adventures (not many in Ken's case.). As they sat and enjoyed themselves, somebody slipped into one of the empty seats at their table.

"Well hello dear brother, and how are you doing today.", tossed out Toma.

"I am fine, still pissed off about that stunt you pulled the other night. Now why did you release Ikari?"

"I was following my orders. Orders that you have no need to know about. Would you like a drink? I wouldn't want to appear rude.", answered Toma as he waved the waitress over.

Feeling a jab into his ribs, Toma glanced down and sighed. Ryoji had a small pistol jammed into his side.

"No, brother dear, I don't want anything to drink. I am going to ask you some questions. If I don't like any of the answers, I am going to pull this trigger.", snarled Ryoji as he jammed the pistol in deeper.


"Now... now, now, at least you still have that pistol I sent you for your birthday a few years back. As for answers, you will have to wait for tonight. Now if you don't mind, my companion and I are waiting for a couple of ladies to join us. Why don't I introduce you? Kenneth Osako, this is my brother Ryoji Kaji. Ryo, this is Kenneth Osako."

"Nice to meet you kid."

"Likewise."

Turning back to his brother, Ryoji withdrew the pistol from Toma's side and placed it back in its holster. Standing up, he smiled an evil smile and started to walk away.

"Tonight, dear brother, I want answers. Regardless of what is going on, I will put a bullet in you if you are not convincing."

"I would expect nothing less.", replied Toma. Grabbing his brother's arm, Toma pulled Ryoji up close and added quietly, "Next time you put a gun in my ribs, dumbass, you better be ready to use it. Otherwise I will be short one brother."

Letting him go, Toma took a sip of his tea and watched Ryoji walk away with hooded eyes.

"Why did you let him do that, Toma. He had a gun to your ribs."

"I let him do that because I was letting him know that I am not afraid of dying. Besides, I had my vest on. I also knew he wasn't going to pull the trigger and I didn't want to start a panic in the place. Hear come Tasha and Mika, you ready to go?"

Nodding, Kenneth stood up and turned in the direction indicated. Sure enough, Mika and Tasha were heading their way. Mika was carrying something covered up in a garment bag. Waving, Toma dropped some change on the table to cover the tip and with Ken headed out to meet the girls. After trading stories, the four roommates got into the car and headed for home.


8:30pm that night.



Kenneth was in the living room when Toma stuck his head around the corner from the kitchen and asked if he had seen either Tasha or Mika. Ken said that he hadn't and continued channel surfing.

"Come here and give me a hand with these corsages. I want to hid them before the they see them."

"Okay but don't you think that flowers are going a bit too far. Besides, with Kensuke coming, Mika won't need one."

"You idiot, neither of these is for her. One of these is for Tasha and the other is for you to give to whoever doesn't have one."

Kenneth was surprised.

"Why me, how come I have to give it to some one. Dammit this is getting too complicated."

"Calm down. Just use it as practice for when you get married.", replied a smug-looking Toma.

At that moment the front door opened and in came the ladies in question. They had just came home from the getting their hair done (typical) and were nattering away at a mile a minute. Toma and Ken just looked at each other and shrugged. Ken went back to channel surfing and Toma ducked back into the kitchen.



Across town, Shinji was feeding his daughter as he watched Asuka and Misato fuss over Rei. Hikari was there also. She and Touji had pulled a surprise visit. At the moment, Touji was sitting in the kitchen watching the father and daughter duo. Since Touji was still a pilot, albeit a somewhat hurt one, he had been invited to the dinner also (NERV is taking care of the tab). And as suspected, Touji had decided to bring Hikari.

"Hey Shinji, do you know what this meeting is about. All I got was a message from Dr. Akagi telling me that it would be in my best interest to attend."

"All I know is that it deals with a video that I watched this afternoon. It seems that there are two more Eva units here in Tokyo-3 now. Asuka, Rei, and I got to see a video of their simulation run. Asuka got pissed off when she saw what happened to her simulated unit. Rei was... Rei. Me, I got a bad feeling just watching them. Those two units were very destructive."

"Did you get to see the pilots?", asked Touji.

"No, they didn't show them to us. I wonder who the pilots are anyway."

"Well, on the brighter side, did you hear that Kensuke has a dinner date tonight with Mika Hanrahn? And I thought I was surprised when they first started dating each other."

"You're kidding. Kensuke has a girlfriend now. This is interesting.", returned Shinji as he picked Teri up and put her on his shoulder.

"Now all we need to do is find some one for Rei and everything will be copacetic."



In the living room, the subject who Touji was referring too was at that moment having Asuka and Misato arguing over what they should do with her hair. Hikari was sitting on the couch, a plastic covered dress lying over the arm as she watched in amusement. Rei wasn't paying attention to either one of them. She was looking at something that was sitting on the end table.

"Colonel Katsuragi, how did you get that picture?", asked Rei

Silent for a moment, Misato walked over to the picture sitting on the tabe and picked it up.

"I don't know Rei, when we woke up this morning it was already on the table. When Shinji saw it he had a fit."

Handing the picture to Rei, Misato took a pull of her drink (Soda this time, she knows that she will get the booze at dinner) and sat in the empty chair. Rei took one look at the picture and recognized it as one she had seen in Commander Ikari's quarters a few times. In the picture was the commander, who was smiling at a brown-haired woman. The woman was holding a baby not more than a year old. Having caught her looking at it, Rei remembered that Commander Ikari told her that it was a picture of his wife and son.

"So that is a picture of Shinji as a baby, Colonel?"

"Yes, Rei it is.", replied Misato.

"Oh a picture of Shinji as a baby, I got to see this.", interjected Hikari.

Rei gave the picture to Asuka who gazed at it for a moment as a soft smile crossed her face, and then Asuka handed the picture to Hikari. Back in the kitchen, Shinji and Touji looked towards the living room as they heard a Hikari giggle.

"Asuka must have shown her the picture of me as a baby.", snorted Shinji.

"A picture of you, as a baby. I have gotta see this.", replied Touji in an excited state.

Shinji glared at his friend. Touji saw the glare and the meaning it was trying to convey and sat back down.

"Okay, maybe later. By the way we need to start getting ready. It is after 9:00 and the reservation is for 10."

Yeah, I noticed. Let me tell Asuka. Asu-chan, you want to take Teri and start getting her ready? We have about 45 minutes till it is time to go."

At his raised voice, a flurry of activity exploded in the other room. Asuka came in and picked up Teri. Taking her into the back to get her ready, she grabbed Hikari and pulled into the back. Hikari had to grab her dress in a hurry to keep from leaving it out front. At the same time, Rei picked up her grey dress and walked towards the bathroom. As all the females scattered to go get ready, Shinji and Touji got up and headed towards Shinji's room where Touji had stashed his tuxedo when he and Hikari arrived. Shinji had agreed that Touji should change first while he waited up front to answer the door when Ryoji arrived. Once Touji was dressed, he would come up front and take Shinji's place to give him time to change.



Back on the other side of town, Toma and Ken were dressed and waiting for their two other roommates. Toma had on his dark blue formal uniform. On the jacket were his medals and other noteworthy awards. His uniform trousers had a satin strip down each leg. Slapping his dress gloves in his hand, he paced the living room in his socks and muttered. After a few minutes he called to the back asking if the girls were ready yet. Kenneth was standing next to the sliding glass door, which led out onto the balcony. He was standing there contemplating the stars when he heard a knock at the door. Answering the door, Kenneth found himself face to face with Kensuke Aida. Aida was dressed in a black tuxedo with matching cummerbund and bowtie. When he saw who answered the door, Kensuke was taken aback.

"Oh, Kenneth, I must have the wrong address. Sorry about that.", stuttered the boy.

"No you don't Kensuke, you have the right address. Yes I share an apartment with Mika and her guardian Tasha. Do come in, Mika should be out in a moment.", returned a grinning Kenneth.


Stepping inside the room and taking off his shoes, Kensuke stepped onto the carpet and looked around. Seeing Toma in his Colonel's uniform gave Kensuke another shock. He turned to Kenneth with a questioning look.

"Oh don't worry about him, he is my guardian. Colonel Toma Kaji of NERV SEALAB. I have been living with him ever since my parent died."

Nodding his understanding, Kensuke walked over to Toma and introduced himself. As the introductions were finished, out from the back stepped Lieutenant Commander Tasha Smith. Wearing a full-length blue silk dress, Tasha was stunning. Toma couldn't speak. Instead, he walked over and offered his hand to her. Both Kensuke and Kenneth were stunned; they both knew that Tasha was attractive but not how attractive. Accepting Toma's hand, Tasha turned her attention back to the hallway. As all of the other males in the room looked, Mika came out. Now if Tasha looked outstanding, Mika straight knocked them all out. Wearing a sleeveless black dress of rayon and a pair of low heels, she almost caused her boyfriend to have a nosebleed. As they watched, the dress clung to the girl in many different ways, falling just below her knees. Seeing that Kensuke was stuck in place, Ken nudged him in her direction. Stepping up to his girlfriend (and blushing red), Kensuke took Mika's outstretched hand and placed a white rose corsage on her wrist. Finally offering his arm, he turned and faced the other occupants of the room. As Mika accepted the proffered arm, Toma was placing his own corset on Tasha's wrist and smiling. Picking up the camera, Kenneth began to take several pictures of the two couples. After a short period of time it was his turn to be in front of the camera as Tasha and Toma took the pictures. After a short bit of time, the group headed down to the parking garage. Instead of using Toma's Volvo or Tasha's Volkswagon, Tasha and Toma had decided to use one of the specially prepared NERV limos. The black Mercedes and its driver (security section 2 of course) were waiting. Opening the back doors the group piled into the limousine and headed towards the restaurant. At the same time a similar limousine had picked up Shinji, Asuka, and the others and headed for the same location. Ryoji had showed up just as the others arrived downstairs. All of the ladies had corsets. Even Teri-chan had one. Misato and Ryoji were looking out the window as the other two couples were talking. Rei, whose was sitting across from Asuka and Shinji, was holding Teri.



When Toma and his group arrived at the restaurant, the maitre'd ushered them to their table. The table was situated near the bandstand. The band was playing by the time they arrived. The music was a mix of classic hits and new music. After they got to their table and chose seats, Mika and Kensuke headed for the dance floor. Toma went over to the bar and ordered a light drink. Kenneth sat down and waited for the others to arrive. After watching for Ken for a bit, Tasha grabbed him and took him to the dance floor.

"Loosen up Ken, if anyone should be worried it should be Toma and I. We are following our orders but who knows how Misato is going to react.", Tasha told Ken as they danced to a classic slow song.

"I know, I know, but I just feel a bit worried."

After the song, they headed back to the table. As they arrived, Tasha saw Toma indicate the entrance with his head. Tasha turned to Ken and told him to find Kensuke and Mika and bring them back to the table. Then she hurried over to the bar to meet Toma as he came walked back to the table.


When their limo arrived, Ryoji stepped out of the car and turned back to the open door. Reaching into the cavernous backseat, he helped Misato, Hikari, Asuka, and Rei out of the car. Following them were Touji and Shinji, with the latter carrying a napping Teri. When the car arrived, the maitre'd hustled out to the car and escorted the group inside.

"Over there, standing just inside the bar entrance. My brother is standing with some lady.", muttered Ryoji in Misato's ear.

"I see them. Hey wait a minute, I know that woman. Asuka and I met her earlier today. If I remember, her name was ......... Tasha. Tasha Smith and she was a roommate to Asuka's classmate Mika."

"What did you say about Mika, Misato?", asked Asuka as her and Shinji walked up.

Misato turned to Asuka and indicated Tasha. As Asuka turned her head and saw the woman, she heard Hikari squeal.

"Hey isn't that Kensuke over there on the dance floor? Isn't that Mika Hanrahn dancing with him?", enthused Hikari.

"Yeah, that is techno geek. Hey over there at that big table, isn't that Ken Osako? I wonder what he is doing here."

"Well children, it seems that we shall find out shortly.", muttered Misato through gritted teeth.

Ryoji just looked at Misato with a worried look on his face. He was coming to the same conclusions that the vice-commander of NERV had arrived at.


"Well Tasha, lets get this over with. From the look on her face, I think Misato has figured out why you are here. It seems that she isn't too happy about it."

"Well it seems your brother realizes that Misato has figured it out.", said Tasha as her and Toma walked over to meet the others.

Oblivious to everything going on around him, Ken was sitting at the table minding his own business. He had just started to relax a bit when he noticed Mika and Kensuke walking over towards the edge of the dance floor. As he watched the young couple, he noticed that his guardian and their other roommate were also moving in that direction. Wondering what was going on, Kenneth had just stood up when he saw the people who they were meeting. Colonel Katsuragi was standing next to a younger version of Toma. Misato was wearing a very short lavender dress. It had a slit going up one side. As Ken watched, he became aware that standing a few feet behind Misato was Rei Ayanami. Next to Rei was the class rep in a full-length conservative jade green dress. On the other side of Rei was Asuka.

Asuka was glistening in a mid-length fire engine red, long sleeved dress. On her hand was what looked like an engagement ring. Behind his three classmates, were Shinji and Touji. Both of them were in black tuxedos. Shinji had gone the traditional route and was wearing a bowtie and cummerbund to match his fiance's dress. On the other hand, Touji had gone another route. Suzehara had on a white waistcoat with a light green vest. Hanging down from his shoulders was a white full-length cape. The inside of the cape had a seagreen lining on it. Together Hikari Horaki and Touji Suzehara were probably the best matched couple in the place. Ken looked at the adults again and saw that Ryoji was wearing another version of a formal dress uniform.

Standing up, Ken started to walk over to the gathering of people. At the edge of the dance floor, he waited as the conglomeration of people made their way in his general direction. As he waited, a slender arm looped its way through his, surprising him.

"Kenny, why don't you go over there?", cooed Mika as she and Kensuke walked up beside Ken.

"Yeah, Ken. That would be interesting. Besides it seems that Rei doesn't have an escort.", replied Kensuke as he fiddled with a pocket video camera. (y'all know Kensuke. A camera is never far from his hand). In this case the camera belonged to Mika. As a fellow camera nut, there was no way she was going to forget a camera at this event.

"Well we should make our way over there, it seems that a professional picture is going to be taken.", murmured Ken.

As they looked, Mika and Kenuske nodded in agreement. Toma was beckoning them over as an effeminate and pushy photographer was prodding everybody into position for a memory of the evening. When the trio arrived, they were hurriedly pressed in to position. When the cameraman was satisfied he went behind the camera and looked at the group through the eyepiece. Noticing that all of the females had corsets except for the quiet girl in the grey dress, the photographer indicated to Toma. Toma seeing the same thing the little insect had, made a suggestion to the cameraman. He agreed and proceeded to rearrange the group. Finally ending up with Kenneth Osako and Rei Ayanami next to the each other. As they stood there, Toma nudged Kenneth and gave him a pointed look when his charge whirled around in confusion.

Ken was wondering why in the hell had his guardian nudged him. Rei had turned around also and was wondering what exactly was happening. As Ken was about to question Toma, Tasha seemingly tripped and stumbled. Ken's reaction was typical: he braced himself and caught Tasha as she fell towards him. While he was trying to help her up, Ken heard her mutter in his ear, "Corsage, put that corsage on Rei's wrist. She is the only girl without one."

Since all of this happened in the space of a minute, nobody noticed that Ken's facial expression changed. After helping Tasha stand back up, Ken turned to Rei and for the first time realized what Tasha had been trying to tell him. Looking around the small gathering, he confirmed that Rei was the only member of the group who had no corsage. So he did the only thing he could, stepping around in front of Rei, he gently clasped her hand and placed the corsage on her wrist.

Rei, having noticed the lightning quick one-sided conversation, was just turning around to face the camera again. As she faced the camera, she noticed that the violet-eyed boy had stepped in front of her and gently taken a hold of her hand was sliding a flower or something onto her wrist. As she raised her head in slight bewilderment, she heard him murmur something.

"What is this and why are you putting it on my wrist?", asked the blue-haired girl quietly.

Misato and Ryoji were surprised but hid it well. The other four were unable to hide their surprise. Shinji summed it up in one sentence:

"Well I'll be dammed.", exclaimed Shinji.

After a few more moments, the picture had been taken and everybody was heading towards his or her seat at the giant sized table. Toma and Tasha were grinning like cats that ate the canaries. Asuka and Shinji were cooing over their daughter. As Kensuke and Mika and Hikari and Touji headed out to the dance floor, Misato and Ryoji followed the other pair of adults to the table.

While everyone else either chatted away or went off to enjoy the dance floor, Rei and Ken made their way over to the table and sat down. Still a bit dazed, Ken pulled Rei's chair out and pushed it in, then taking his own seat and promptly downing his glass of water.

Over on the dance floor; Asuka and Shinji joined Hikari, Mika and their dates. Between the 6 teenagers there was a lively conversation. Rei and Ken was the subject of the discussion.

"Do you think that Rei and Ken will become an item?", asked Asuka of Hikari.

"I don't know. Mika, since you have know Ken the longest, what do you think?", replied Hikari.

"Well, Kenny is a bit shy when it comes to girls. I remember one night where we had to ... well I will have to tell you when it is just the three of us. Although at one school, it was rumored that he and I were dating. When he first heard that rumor, Ken went berserk and almost trashed the whole library looking for the person who started the rumor. At the time, he was pretty interested in another girl in our class, but wouldn't do anything about it. When this rumor came out, the girl in question came straight up to him and slapped him in the face saying that she actually did care about him. With that behind, Ken is actually a sweet and charming guy. When you first meet him, he seems a bit staid and introverted.", answered Mika as she danced with Kensuke.

"When you first met him what did you do?"

"When I first met Ken, I hit him with a frying pan by mistake.", stuttered Mika.

This statement had the effect of stopping everyone in his or her tracks. Touji, Shinji, and Kensuke all looked up in amazement.

"What happened, why did you hit him with a frying pan?", asked Shinji.

"Ummm, I really don't want to answer that question. You will have to ask Ken."

Asuka being Asuka, immediately grabbed Shinji's hand and pulled him off the dance floor. Hikari and Touji weren't far behind. Arriving at the table, Asuka elbowed Shinji in the ribs. Getting the not so quite subtle message, Shinji walked up to Ken and asked about the legitimacy of the story that they had heard from Mika.


"Oh damn, I wish she didn't say anything about that incident.", grumbled Ken

"So she did hit you with a frying pan.", interrupted the red headed Eva pilot.

"Yeah, she did.", Ken looked up then added, "What happened that night was that our guardians had gotten a bit drunk. It wasn't the first time it happened. That night, Tasha and Toma somehow made it over to her apartment. At the time, I didn't know that Mika was living there also. This also happened before I found out that she was in the same program as me. Around 8 that morning, I got a call from a partially sober Tasha. She wanted me to come over and pick up a still passed out Toma and take him home. At the time I was planning on heading to the park to play some soccer. When I arrived at the apartment, Tasha invited me in and told me to make myself at home while she tried to rouse Toma. As I waited, I got thirsty. When I walked into the kitchen."

At this point in the story, Ken paused and looked over to the bar where Toma and Ryoji were having a discussion and a drink. Tasha and Misato had gone off to the restroom.


"Well continue the story.", pressed Asuka and Hikari.

Touji and Shinji rolled their eyes and shared a look. Shortly afterward, Kensuke and Mika joined them. Both of them sat down and took a sip of their water. Sighing heavily Ken continued with the story.


"As I walked to the kitchen, I noticed a shadow dancing around and singing. This shadow also happened to be heading into the kitchen. When I made it to the kitchen, whom do I observe? I see Mika Hanrahn, happily dancing around dressed in nothing but a towel. From my point, I was able to notice that she had just gotten out of the shower. Mika had gotten out a frying pan and it looked like she was going to cook something. That was when I tripped over a chair. Hitting the floor, I startled her. When I turned over, I didn't realize that Mika had stepped over me and at that moment I was getting a somewhat interesting view. It was at this time that Mika realized that she wasn't alone. Her first reaction was to step back and help me up. Her next reaction when she saw that I was a guy was predictable. She screamed and backed up, flinging the frying pan in my direction. It connected and down I went. At this point is when Toma and Tasha came walking into the room."



By now, all of the adults were at the table. Shortly after they arrived, the waiters and waitresses appeared with dinner (use your imagination, readers). After placing a plate in front of everyone, a server stood behind each chair and poured the champagne (Damn NERV has scads of money. They picked the best of the best). Each of the children received a glass of the bubbly. Once it was poured, they were admonished that they were not to get anymore.

The gathering ate diner in silence. After dinner Misato was ready to get down to business. Before she could say anything, Toma cleared his throat.

"By now, it seems that some of you should have realized who is who among you. Well now to have your thoughts confirmed. Asuka, Rei, Shinji, Touji, I introduce to you the pilots of Evangelion Units Alpha and Bravo. Shinji and Touji, your classmate Kenneth Osako is the designated pilot of Unit Alpha.", stated Toma to somewhat surprised group of teenagers.

At this time Tasha stood up and added:

"Rei, Asuka as you two have probably figured out, the Pilot of Evangelion Unit Bravo is Mika Hanrahn."

At this announcement, there were two separate reactions. First, Asuka's face turned red and she began to get angry. Abruptly it cooled as she jolted in her seat. The second reaction was that Shinji, having seen his fiancé start to get red and fume, immediately kicked her under the table and handed her their daughter. Thus keeping Asukas' furious temper reigned in.


Mika looked over at Ken and smiled. Hikari caught the smile as she took a sip of the last of her glass of champagne. Lightly tapping Asuka on the foot, she subtly nodded in the direction of the restroom. At first, her friend was a bit puzzled. When she first felt the pressure on her foot, she had looked at Shinji wondering why he was daring to kick her again. Seeing Shinji engaged in a conversation with the other two stooges, Asuka looked around the table at the others. Rei was looking at the rest of the patrons in the restaurant. Every so often, she would glance at the teenager in the grey tuxedo. Toma and Ryoji were leaning back in their chairs and, to Asuka, glaring at each other. Asuka turned her gaze over to her guardian and the other adult at the table. The two ladies were talking as if they were old friends. However, Asuka noticed that each woman was looking warily at each other. As she continued her scan, that is when Asuka glanced over at her best friend and saw her nod. Getting the idea, Asuka stood up and whispered something into Shinji's ear. Shinji nodded at kept up his conversation.

"Misato, Hikari and I are going to change Teri-chan's diaper. We will be right back. Okay?", Asuka asked quietly.

"Yeah, okay Asuka. Take your time.", replied a somewhat preoccupied Misato.

Recognizing a ploy that she had used a few times herself. Mika stood up and told Tasha that she was going to join the other girls. Tasha nodded in agreement. Paying more attention than Misato, she had also recognized the set-up. Deciding to stretch her legs. Tasha stood up and took Toma's hand. Gently pulling him to his feet she took him out onto the dance floor with the other couples.

"If you don't mind Misato, I have been wanting to get him on this floor all night. Toma refused to come to this restaurant, but I persuaded him.", said Tasha grinning slightly.

"Yeah I get the point. In fact, I believe that Ryoji had promised me a dance tonight.", returned Misato as she stood up and grabbed Ryoji's hand.

Of course, both Ryoji and Toma were a bit surprised. They tried to protest their way out of it, but neither Tasha nor Misato were having any of it. This left the three stooges with Rei and Ken. Shinji and Touji were teasing Kensuke about his relationship with Mika. Ken was idly stirring his glass of tea. Rei was sitting across from him and still studying the crowd. After 10 minutes, Rei looked across from her and absently noted that three of the four people on the other side of the table were still having a somewhat jovial conversation. However, the lone boy sitting across from her wasn't doing anything except sipping on his cup of tea. As she sat and stared, Rei's mind put the face together with the information that had been made available to them tonight.

"Kenneth Osako; age: 14 years old, designated pilot of Evangelion Unit Alpha. Lives with Colonel Toma, also shares an apartment with Lieutenant Commander Tasha Smith and Mika Hanrahn, designated pilot of Evangelion Unit Bravo.", thought Rei

After a moment's deliberation, Rei came to a decision (Now who said that this girl couldn't think for herself. She is pretty smart in my opinion). After taking a sip from her glass of water (her champagne had been untouched. Misato swiped it when she thought Rei wasn't looking), Rei looked up.

"Pilot Osako."

Ken had been delving deeper into past memories as drank his tea. He didn't here his name called at first. It took another two tries before he realized that someone was calling him. Ken looked around trying to see who was calling him.

"Pilot Osako."

When he realized whom the voice belonged to, he looked across the table. Rei was looking at him intently.

"Yes Rei.", replied Ken

"Why aren't you talking with Ikari and the rest?", asked Rei.

"I don't know, maybe they feel as if I am breaking into their friendship. It doesn't matter to me."

"I do not understand."

"It is like this, I am new to Tokyo-3, I am also an Eva pilot. Maybe Suzehara and Ikari feel that I am competition. I know that Suzehara is still undergoing therapy for injuries received."

"That is illogical. You being a pilot should have no bearing on whether or not you become friends. In fact, your being a pilot should be conducive to a friendship.", replied Rei quietly.

Ken did not know what to say when he heard this. While formulating his thoughts he took another drink from his tea. As he pondered it, the other three girls arrived back at the table. Hikari, Asuka, and Mika were all chattering away as if they had become friends in the few minutes the trio had been gone. Teri was snuggled up in her mother's arms. Giggling the baby girl held her hands out to her father and said, "dada". Smiling gently, love in her eyes, she passed the baby to Mika who handed Teri to Shinji. After a few moments, Misato and the other adults arrived back at the table. Toma and his brother were still frowning at each other, but now they were hiding the frowns a bit better. From the conversation, Ken picked up that Misato and Tasha had somehow set a shopping date.



Toma had just sat down when he felt the vibration of his cell phone in his pocket. Cutting his eyes over to his companion, Toma nodded his head once, sharply. Out of the corner of her eye, Tasha had seen the movement. Waving her hand in agreement with something Misato had said, she indicated that he should go ahead and take the call. Toma nodded and made his excuses for a moment. Leaving the group at the table, Toma went over to an alcove hidden from the others view.

"Toma here."

"Colonel Kaji, we have just gotten news that Units Charlie and Delta will be arriving in a few days. Do you have the packages with you? If you do, then you can let the persons know that they have been chosen as pilots.", said a smug-sounding voice over the phone.

"Yes Mr. Ikari, it will be done."

"Good, I do hope you are enjoying your dinner.", returned Gendo Ikari before he hung up.

Toma looked at the phone in wonderment and then put it away. Making his way back to the table, he winked at Tasha and nodded. Tasha nodded back and took a sip of her 4th glass of champagne (her and Misato had been going glass for glass since they arrived back at the table from dancing.).


During this time, Ryoji had been having a short conversation with Asuka. The object of their conversation had been sitting quietly sitting drinking a glass of water. Leaning over to Misato, Ryoji whispered something in her ear. When she heard it, the vice-commander of NERV cut off her sentence in surprise. Since Misato had a matchmaking streak 20 miles wide, she innocently (yeah right) suggested to Asuka to take Shinji out to the dance floor. Ever the innocent one Asuka asked her to watch Teri, who at this time was napping in her baby chair.


Shinji, who had been in the middle of an interesting conversation with his two friends, now tried to protest his way out of it. After catching the look in Asuka's eye (the do-it-or-die look) he reluctantly agreed. Of course upon seeing this, Hikari and Mika grabbed their dates and hurried them off to the dance floor. Protests streaming from Touji's mouth while Kensuke dealt with it in stoicism.


Ken watched the others while trying hard (very hard) not to laugh. Even Rei had a slight humorous gleam in her eye (yes Rei knows humour, she just doesn't know when to show it.). since Rei and Ken both were watching the other teenagers, they missed the glance that the two pairs of adults gave each other.


"Rei, why don't you take Ken out there and join them.", inquired Misato.

"Yeah, that would be nice. The both of you have not risen from your chairs since we have been here.", added Tasha, the co-conspirator.

At this both Ryoji and Toma started to laugh. Tasha and Misato looked at each other.

Misato leaned over to Tasha and mumbled something.

"Is it me or do both of these guys act alike sometime.", whispered Misato.

"Yeah they act alike. However, Toma actually shaves.", returned Tasha, grinning to take the sting out of her words.


Out on the floor, the three stooges had been appraised of Asuka's plan. While Touji, Kensuke, and all three girls had agreed most heartedly, Shinji had shown a bit of reluctance.

"Asuka, did you plan this? I don't think Rei knows how to dance. Besides, do you actually think that Ken would ask her to dance?"

"Shinji, trust me, Ken is an excellent dance. When we were at a different school, all of the girls wanted to dance with him. However, he is a bit shy around some and indifferent around others.", Mika answered before Asuka could say anything.


Back at the table, the subject of the conversation was trying to find a way to weasel out of the whole deal. It was made doubly hard with the red eyes boring into him from across the way.


"Yes colonel.", answered Rei


Standing-up, Rei walked over to Kens' side of the table. Extending her hand, Rei clasped Ken by the hand and walked over to the dance floor with him in tow. Taken by surprise, Ken had no choice but to follow the quiet teen. The three couples already out on the floor stood mouths agape. At that moment the band conductor slowed the beat down. Turning to the microphone, the maestro told the crowded restaurant and full dance floor that the band was playing an old song from the early 1990's.


Shinji, Touji, and Kensuke all held their partners closer. Whispering into Shinji's ear, Asuka followed as he gently turned so that she could keep Rei and Ken in sight (Shinji must have been taking lessons from someone. :)). Glancing around, she saw that the other couples had followed suit. Not knowing what Rei's reaction would be, Ken timidly extended his hands. After looking around or a moment, Rei stepped into the light grasp of the nervous boy.

Ken assumed (yes I know what it means, no jokes please) that he would lead. Taking a second to get the beat, Ken started to easily follow the music. Starting with easy steps, Ken moved to the music. Seeing that Rei had fallen into the natural rhythm of the music, Ken started to increase the level of difficulty. He soon realized that whatever and however complicated a step he did, Rei copied with ease. By this time the music had changed many times over.

Back at the table, Asuka and the other teens had sat down and taken a sip of water. Misato was holding Teri. The little girl was awake, but at the time was playing strands of Misato's purple hair. Handing the little girl over to her parents, Misato took another sip of champagne. Everybody was looking at the dance floor and watching Ken and Rei dance to another song. It seemed that the whole restaurant was watching the couple. The few dancers left on the floor had all moved over to the side and let the teenagers have the spotlight. Oblivious to all of the stares directed at them, Ken and Rei swayed to the music swirling around them. Ken was enjoying himself immensely, he couldn't tell if Rei was enjoying herself or not, but it seemed that Rei was enjoying herself as well. On her part, Rei was wondering what she was feeling.


"Rei."

"Yes."

"Would you like to take a break? We have been dancing for almost an hour without stopping.", asked Ken in a murmur.

"Yes, if you think that we should.", replied Rei.


Nodding slightly, Ken brought them to a stop still in tune with the music. As the music faded, he escorted her over to an open balcony that he had spotted shortly after they had started dancing. Walking through the pair of French doors, Ken felt a slight chill in the air. Acting quickly, he took off his tuxedo jacket and wrapped it around Rei's shoulders. Walking her over to a small bench situated a few feet from the railing. After making sure Rei was situated, Ken walked over to a small outside bar and picked up two cups of tea. Handing a cup to Rei, he sat down next to her. Together the two sat and watched the stars while sipping the tea.


"Ken, Rei, come on it is time to leave.", said Toma.

Ken jerked his head. He hadn't realized that his guardian had come out onto the balcony. Looking to his right, Ken realized that Rei had stood up and was walking inside. Turning back, the blue-haired girl came back and handed Ken his tuxedo jacket.

"Thank you, Pilot Osako.",

"Your welcome, Rei. I do hope you enjoyed yourself tonight."

Nodding once, Rei turned and went back inside where Misato and Ryoji were waiting. Taking in his immediate surroundings, Ken saw that Mika and Kensuke were standing next to Toma and Tasha. Tasha had her arm entwined in the arm of Toma.

"Okay, Toma I am ready. Shall we go?"

Shrugging into the jacket, Ken stretched his legs and walked over to his guardian and roommate. Not catching the smug smile that passed between the four adults, Ken headed for the restaurants' entrance. Out under the covered patio, Ken stopped and looked back. Walking over to the other limo, Ken held the open door for Rei as she stepped into the car. As she stepped into the car, Rei glanced over at Ken. The two held each other's eyes for a second (although it seemed far longer) then the moment passed and the blue-haired teen stepped into the car. Heading back over to the other limo, Ken got in and slid over into the far corner. Not acknowledging the other's as they got in. When the chauffer closed the door, Ken looked up for a moment and then went back to staring out the window. It wasn't until after they had dropped Kensuke off at home that anyone spoke.

"So, Ken what were you and Rei doing on that balcony for an hour? To me, it seemed that it was a little long for a glass of tea.", teased Mika.

"All we did was drink tea and look at the stars. To your feminine teenaged fantasies, even a quick glance seems like a look of longing. Can't you think of anything other than romance? Sheesh.", retorted Ken.

That sentence had the effect of ceasing all conversation in the limo. After a short ride, the car arrived back at their apartment. Wishing the driver a goodnight the group headed upstairs. Once inside the apartment, everybody went to their respective rooms and changed. The first one to finish changing was Toma. Heading straight for the refrigerator and grabbing two beers, he opened them both and brought them into the living room.


Sitting the drinks on the end table, Toma dropped onto the couch and turned on the stereo system. A few minutes later, Tasha walked into the room. Grabbing a beer she took a seat on the couch next to Toma. As both adults listened to "In The Hall of The Mountain King" (awesome piece of music. Y'all need to hear it.), the two teenagers walked into the room. Still wet from a short bath, Mika was drying her hair. She still had the towel in her hands as she sat in one of the chairs.


"Now that everybody knows everyone, things should go a bit easier.", said Toma as he took a sip of his beer. Spilling some on his old Arsenal F.C. T-shirt (GO ARSENAL!!!!!GUNNARS RULE!!!!. Now they just need to win)

"I hope so, things are hard enough with the angels attacking every so often. It is going to be even harder when the alternate angels start to attack. All of you Eva pilots need to be able to work together. Now that two more units will be arriving, everybody needs to start working together.", added Tasha.

"So who are the two new pilots going to be? When are we going to meet them?", asked Mika.

"We already have, Mika. They were there tonight.", stated Ken a tone that sounded kinda suspiciously like Rei's.

At first, Mika was confused and it showed on her face. Then as the words sunk in her look of confusion turned to one of surprise. Looking over at the two adults for confirmation, Mika smiled when she saw Toma and Tasha nod.

"Do they know that they have been selected?"

"Not yet Mika. Tomorrow at school they will be notified officially. Dr. Akagi will tell them. It will be up to you and Ken to help the others to adjust to their new status. Make it easy for them. In Kensuke's case it shouldn't be hard.", answered Tasha with her head leaning on Toma's shoulder and her beer on the coffee table.

At this time, Ken hadn't said anything after his earlier statement. Looking out the window, Ken's mind was not on the subject being discussed. After his statement earlier, he had turned his mind inward. Coming back to the subject at hand, Ken looked at the clock and made a decision.

"Everyone, I am tired so I am going to bed. It is almost 4 in the morning and Mika and I still have school tomorrow. Goodnight everyone."

Turning on his heel, Ken walked towards his room. Mika had also decided to turn in so she followed him up the hallway. Tasha looked over at Toma with the beginning of an evil smile. Seeing the smile and knowing what it meant, Toma shook his head and told his lady love that he was too tired.


Over on the other side of town, Misato had decided to have Touji and Hikari spend the night since it was so late. Ryoji she threw out 20 minutes after they got home. Putting the class representative in Asuka's old room and having Touji sleep in the living room. Asuka and Shinji were in their room putting their daughter to bed when Touji and Hikari stuck their heads around the doorjamb.

"Hey Shinji, Asuka, is Teri-chan giving you a hard time?", asked Hikari.

"No Hikari, she is being a good little girl. Although I wonder how long she will sleep. There isn't much left of the night. Right now she seems asleep.", answered the red haired girl as she wiped tears out of her eyes.

Shinji and Touji had gone out to the balcony and were having a conversation. It started out about Kensuke and Mika and how cute a couple they made. As the conversation inside, Touji and Shinji also started talking about Rei and Ken.

"Shinji, do you think that Ken and Rei will become a couple? They way they seemed tonight it was almost a given.", started Touji.

"I don't know, Touji. Rei is a most complex person. She seems to be on a whole plateau higher than the rest of us. On the other hand, she seems new to things like emotions. When I first met Rei, the only emotions she showed, she showed to my father. It took until the 5th angel for me to get her to smile for me. Ken, I don't know about. He seems just right for Rei. From what I learned from Mika, Ken isn't one who gives his emotions free reign too much. Then again, he might be the one who is able to bring Rei out of her shell and show her the whole spectrum of emotions."

Feeling a pair of arms reaching around him, Shinji absently rested his hands on the pair of feminine hands now draped intimately around his waist. Next to him, Touji had Hikari's hand in his. Together, the two couples stood at the railing staring at the stars. After a few minutes everybody went inside. Asuka and Shinji going to the bed they shared while Hikari going to Asuka's old room with Touji behind her.

At the same time, the girl in question was lying face down on her bed. Rei was running the events of the day in her mind. From when she woke up to the time she left the restaurant. For the past few minutes, Rei had been concentrating on the boy with the violet eyes.

"What is this I am feeling? He is an eva pilot, yet he seems so much more. Is he like me or is he like Ikari. Do I feel closer to him or do I just accept him as a pilot? I know what I am, but does it mean I cannot have the happiness that Suzehara and Horaki have, the happiness that Ikari and Asuka share. This is so confusing."


Rei ran these thoughts through her mind. As she rested there, she felt a red heat flush come to her cheeks.

"This is embarrassing."

And with that she closed her eyes and went to sleep.