Chapter 10
Home Again / Mother?
The apartment was extremely quiet for the next three days. Asuka, when not in school remained in her room, Sayoko either remained in her room or sat on the balcony looking up at the sky. Misato just wanted to get drunk, but ended up spending most of her time checking on the 2 healthy pilots, and pestering Ritsuko on when they would be ready to pull Shinji out. Ritsuko finally blew a fuse and as a result, Misato was 'on leave' until either an Angel attacked or they were ready to retrieve the Third Child. Misato currently sat on the couch, watching soaps. Both Sayoko and Asuka were at school, so she had no one to talk to.
"GOD, I don't know how much more of this I can take!"
"Wark?"
Misato glanced down at Pen Pen. He was holding up a beer for her.
"Thanks Pen Pen. Just what the doctor ordered."
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SEELE 07: The scenario is running out of control! Unit 01 was not intended to receive the heart of an Angel.
SEELE 01: While unexpected, we can turn this into an advantage for us. Instrumentality will occur. The scenario will be modified accordingly.
SEELE 05: And what of our agent? What has he to report?
SEELE 03: The Magi prove difficult to access without raising attention to himself.
SEELE 05: And yet Agent Ryoji seems to have no difficulty. We require results.
SEELE 01: Agent Ryoji will be handled accordingly very soon. Untill then, we proceed as scheduled.
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"So where is Ikari?" asked Kensuke for the thousandth time.
Sayoko continued to stare off into space, ignoring Kensuke for the 3rd consecutive day.
"Come on! I want to know!"
"Ask Asuka. I'm not really in the mood."
"WHAT?! I'm not going to ask the demon!" Sayoko looked at Kensuke and gave him the glare. Kensuke took a step back.
"Asuka is my friend. She is NOT a demon. If you call her a demon again in my presence, I will show you what a demon really is. Do I make myself clear?"
"Uhh.....Yes Ma'am."
"Now leave me alone."
Kensuke quickly moved to his seat.
"Nice one." Sayoko turned to see Hikari standing behind her. "Would you really send a demon after him."
"Of course not. I'm just......"
"You don't need to say, Asuka told me about your Aunt."
"Did she say anything else?"
"No. I know something else is bothering her, but she won't say. It's about Shinji isn't it."
Sayoko sighed. "Yes it is."
"So where is he?"
"I can't say."
"Why not?"
"NERV security."
"Ok. Can you tell me when Touji will be coming back?"
Sayoko smiled. "Touji and Rei will be back to school tomorrow. But, they won't tell you where Shinji is either."
Hikari frowned. "Dammit. I'm Asuka's best friend. I want help her."
"Be there for her, let her know that your there. That should be enough." Sayoko started to rub the side of her head. "Just watch out. She has a nasty right hook."
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After school, Sayoko went to the NERV Infirmary to visit Rei. As Sayoko approached she saw Commander Ikari step out of Rei's room and begin to walk towards her. Sayoko stood at attention.
Sayoko bowed slightly. "Commander."
"Pilot Morisato. Why are you here?"
"To visit Rei sir. She is my friend."
"Friendship is unnecessary to pilot Eva. I suggest you leave Rei alone."
"Sir?"
"Leave Rei alone. Her welfare is my concern alone." With that, the Commander turned and left.
Sayoko just stared at the departing Commander. She then sighed looked up and mumbled a few choice swear words in old Norse that could make even a demon blush.
Sayoko continued to Rei's room.
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Asuka sat quietly in the park that overlooked Tokyo-3. It was here that she and Shinji had run to when they were attacked. It was also here that Sayoko saved them both. It was also a quiet place to think.
'Sayoko and Hikari are both trying to help me. Is it wrong to get help? Doesn't it make me weak? I need to be strong, for Shinji. But, Sayoko knows....that I miss...him, that I....care.' Asuka struggled to hold back the tears.
'Sayoko has helped me and Shinji. She continued to help me even though I....pushed her away. I have to do something for her, to show her...I care.'
Asuka pulled out her cell phone. She quickly dialed a number. "Kaji. It's Asuka. I need your help."
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"Hey Rei. How are you?"
"I am fine."
"What did the commander want?"
"He...wanted to know when I'll be able to pilot again."
'Of course he would.' thought Sayoko, "You shouldn't pilot until your 100% Rei. You could get injured again, or even killed if your not totally healed."
"It does not matter. I am replaceable." Sayoko turned and glared at Rei. Rei actually shrank into the bed.
"Don't say that Rei. Not matter what, you are NOT replaceable. All life is precious, no matter what!" Sayoko went quiet for a second. "Do you know why the commander wants me to avoid you?"
"He did not say. He did ask about you though. What we had talked about at school." Rei looked nervous.
"What did you say?" asked Sayoko quietly.
"I.....I....I did not tell him the truth." Rei said nervously. "I said we had talked of homework, nothing more."
Sayoko sighed. "It's alright Rei."
"No it is not. I felt......strange, lying to the commander. I do not like this feeling."
"Your feeling guilty Rei. Its normal to feel that in your ....situation." it was then that a thought occurred to Sayoko, something Asuka had mentioned about Rei. "Rei, What will you do if the commander orders you to stay way from me, outside of piloting?"
It was quiet in the room for several minutes.
"I....I do not know." Rei replied quietly. "I enjoy your company, but the commander must be obeyed. I am....uncertain what to do."
Sayoko could sense the turmoil in Rei's head. "Rei, no matter what happens, my promise to you still stands. Remember that."
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Sayoko left Rei and began to head towards the exit. The visit did not go as well as she hoped, but Sayoko felt better knowing Rei would be out soon. She had just left the Medical area and was heading towards the train when........
"Hello Miss Morisato."
Sayoko turned to see a rather scruffy looking guy in a NERV uniform. "Do I know you?"
"Sorry, my name is Kaji Ryoji. I'm a friend of Misato, Shinji and Asuka."
"What do you want?"
"Well for starters, I was asked to stop you from leaving. Asuka is on her way here to see you."
Sayoko looked at Kaji puzzled. "Why?"
"I don't know. But she has something planned."Kaji then flashed a grin, "So, what's it like, being on earth?"
Sayoko just stared at Kaji. "I have no idea what you mean."
"Of course you don't. I didn't think you would." said Kaji with a grin.
Sayoko was about to question Kaji on where he got his information when Asuka came tearing down the hallway.
"Thanks Kaji."
"No problem Asuka. I'm glad your doing ok. With all that has happened, its like there's a goddess looking over you." Sayoko looked like she was about to faint, Asuka just stared at Kaji.
"How?....Who?....When?..."
"Misato. Take care you two." Kaji then walked off down a hallway. Seconds later he reappeared walking in the opposite direction, talking to a rather attractive Female Tech.
"And I thought Urd was bad......" muttered Sayoko.
Asuka grabbed Sayoko's arm and hauled her out of NERV and into Tokyo-3. They continued walking until they reached a park.
"Alright Asuka. What's going on?"
Asuka smiled. "We are going on a trip."
"To where?"
"To see your Aunt Megumi."
Sayoko took a step back. "Wait one second! I never agreed to that!"
Asuka took a step forward. "Look Sayoko, you've been miserable for the past several days. You miss not having you Aunt around, she's the only family you've known." Asuka grabbed Sayoko's hand. "Misato, Shinji, and me.....We don't have anyone but each other. You still have a family member to talk to."
Sayoko was shaking. "But....She left...She doesn't want to see me."
"She was mad at your Aunts, not you."
"Then why doesn't she answer my letters?"
"Let's go ask."
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In Old Nekomi.
Old Nekomi had seen better days. Within 5 years of Second Impact, most of it had been flooded as a result of the rising sea level. A portion of it still remained above sea level....but not by much. It was a hill that once overlooked the city. On this hill stood a old temple, neglected by both time and people. The building was quiet. In one room stood an old mirror. The mirror began to glow, lighting up the inside of the temple. Two figures stepped out of the mirror, one was Sayoko, the other a very surprised Asuka.
"Wow." said Asuka. "Is it always like that?"
"Hmm?"
"Traveling by mirror."
"You get used to it. It is quicker then a train."
Sayoko took a look around her. 'I'm home momma.'
Asuka looked around the room. "What is this dump?"
"This was my parents home."
"Oh, sorry. Why are we here?"
Sayoko stepped over and opened the door to the hallway. "This is the only spot I can safely travel to without anyone taking notice." Sayoko continued to move into the hallway, Asuka followed and looked around. There was several doors in the hallway, 2 still had faded signs on them. One read 'Skuld Lab's', the other said 'Everyone's Tearoom'.
"When were you here last?" asked Asuka quietly.
"When I was 5. Old Nekomi had been mostly abandoned by then. Auntie Skuld and I left for Tokyo-2, instead going to Nekomi-2. 'Too many memories.' was her reason."
Sayoko and Asuka stepped out into the temple yard. The yard had long since become overgrown with weeds. Sayoko walked towards the gate, on the way she glanced at the old cherry tree that stood nearby. They continued down the path until they reached the main road, which was partially flooded. After walking for a half hour, they reached Nekomi-2.
"So where to?" asked Asuka.
"I don't know."
"What do you mean you don't know?! Can't you home in one her or something?"
"You expect me to find one person in a city of thousands?" asked Sayoko.
"Well you must know someone who lives here!"
"It's been ten years!"
"Bell.... Belldandy?" came a voice. Sayoko's face froze. She and Asuka slowly turned towards the person who spoke. A woman in her early forties walked up and took a closer look at Sayoko.
"Oh, I'm sorry. I thought you were someone I knew. Please excuse me." The woman started to walk away, but something familiar about her that caused Sayoko to speak up.
"Wait. How do you know Belldandy Morisato?"
The woman stopped at the mention of the last name. "I never said her last name. Who are you?"
"Sayoko Morisato. This is my friend Asuka Sohryu."
"Sayoko?" A big smile came to her face. "Wow. You have grown up! Its been ages since I'd seen you last, right before Skuld took you away."
Sayoko took another glance at the woman before she realized who it was. "Aunt Sayoko?"
The woman smiled, "I'm glad you remember me."
Asuka looked puzzled, "I thought you only has 1 mortal Aunt?"
Sayoko turned to Asuka, "This is my godmother, Sayoko Mishima. She was also my mom's best friend."
The elder Sayoko smiled, "Not at first. We kind of got off to a rocky relationship. But, later on though, things improved. So what brings you here?"
"We're here looking for her Aunt Megumi." said Asuka.
"Megumi? Where's Skuld?"
"Recalled by Kami-sama." said Sayoko, quietly.
"Recalled?!?! Why?"
"I'm not sure why. All goddesses have been recalled but me."
"But why are you looking for Megumi? I mean, Skuld told me what happened....."
"She's been moping around the apartment the last 3 days." answered Asuka. "Both of us needed something to do, So I thought she should go and see her Aunt."
The older woman took this all in. "Well, I'm not really sure where Megumi is. She was really upset after the funeral. She stayed in town for about 3 years." She turned towards Sayoko. "She did realize she had made a big mistake in not being around for you. But by that time, Skuld had already moved you away. She was upset because she knew she had really screwed up. 2 years after you left, Megumi finally moved away. I've heard from her from time to time. She does ask if I'd heard from you but, obviously, I haven't. Until now."
"Well if you could, get in touch with her and tell her to get in contact with me. I'm in Tokyo-3 at the moment." Sayoko waved her hand and a small card appeared. She handed it to the older Sayoko. "This is my phone number."
"I'll try and get a hold of her."
"Oh, here." Sayoko waved her hand again, producing 2 pictures. Both were of her and Skuld, when she became a 2nd Class Goddess. "For you and, if you see her, Aunt Megumi."
Old Sayoko looked at the picture. "Same outfit as your mother's" she said quietly. She looked back up. "Your parents would be so proud of you. Take care Sayoko."
Sayoko smiled. "You to Aunt Sayoko."
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Misato sat grumbling in the living room. A tower of empty beer cans sat piled next to her.
'Where are they? I'm hungry and it's Sayoko's turn to make dinner.' Misato got up. 'I need to wake myself up.' She went into the bathroom and began to splash water on her face. As she bent down, she heard noise. She looked up to see the mirror shimmering. Misato fell onto the floor and stared as Sayoko and Asuka came through the mirror. Both looked down at the surprised Major.
"Umm, Hi Misato." said Sayoko.
Misato stared at them for a second then got up and brushed herself off.
"I need another beer." Misato grumbled, leaving the bathroom.
Sayoko looked at Asuka.
"Well at least it wasn't Shinji using the bathroom." said Asuka.
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Somewhere
Shinji was in a large darkened room, at least he thought it was a room. He stood within a circle of light that moved where he moved. So far he had yet to reach a wall. He did feel a presence.
"Hello?"
"Shinji?"
Shinji turned around and saw a woman standing near him. She was in her late twenties and wearing a lab coat. His first thought was that it was Rei, but this person had brown hair, in fact she kind of looked like......
"Mother!" exclaimed Shinji. He ran forward and embraced her.
"Oh Shinji. Why are you here?"
"I was piloting Unit 01. The power ran out and then I guess it went berserk. But...where is here?" said Yui.
"This is the core of the Eva. I was pulled in 10 years ago."
"But....Father said you died....."
"Shinji, you were there, remember."
Shinji sat back as long hidden memories filled his mind. He saw himself smiling with his Mother, saw her waving as she entered Unit 01. He saw his younger self pressing his face against the observation window, the Eva going berserk, lots of yelling, his Father screaming his wife's name, and then an empty plug.
"I've been here ever since that day." said Yui, "Everytime your Eva went berserk, that was me helping you. But what made you decide to become a pilot?"
"Father sent for me."
"What do you mean he 'sent' for you?"
"He sent me away shortly after you 'died'."
Yui began to feel very pissed.
"Shinji, maybe you should start from the beginning"
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Inside cage 3
Techs were crawling all over Unit-01. Ritsuko stood with Maya helping to hook Unit-01 up to the Magi. Commander Ikari and Vice-Commander Fuyutsuki came up to them.
"Status."
"We should be ready to go in 2 weeks." said Ritsuko.
"Has there been any reaction out of the Eva since it was brought in here."
Ritsuko was about to reply when a low deep growl was emitted by the Eva. All the techs that had been on the Eva scattered. Even the Commanders took a few steps back. Everyone stared at Unit-01.
Commander Ikari recovered quickly. "Keep me informed." He immediately turned and left the cage with Fuyutsuki in tow. Upon reaching the elevator, Fuyutsuki turned to Ikari.
"You think Shinji is talking to her?"
"........."
"I don't think she's very happy."
"........."
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The next 2 weeks seemed to take forever. Finally, the day arrived when they would attempt to pull Shinji out. Dr. Akagi directed the techs in preparation for the attempt. Misato stood in the control room watching. Behind her and against the wall stood the plug suited form of Sayoko. Rei was in Unit 00 incase anything went wrong. Asuka was at school as was Touji. Misato turned and looked at Sayoko.
"Sorry I got you all suited up for nothing, I didn't think Unit 00 would be ready this soon. Just be prepared to jump into your Unit if something happens to Rei."
"Yes Ma'am."
Misato returned her attention to the preparations.
"Alright let's begin." said Ritsuko.
Within minutes the entire process started to go to hell. Through the chaos of the rapidly failing attempt, Sayoko decided to try something. She reached out with her mind and tried to touch Shinji in Unit 01.
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"Shinji, it's time for you to go." said Yui.
"But I don't want to lose you again."
"You are not going to lose me. I'll be right here. Besides, what will happen to Asuka if you stay? What about Rei? Misato? Sayoko?"
"What about you? Can you come out with me?"
"No. Not now. I must remain here for the time being. But....."
* Shinji? *
Both Yui and Shinji jumped at the unexpected voice.
* Shinji? Can you hear me? *
Shinji finally recognized the voice. "Sayoko?"
* Shinji? If you can hear me, they're trying to get you out. Please Shinji, for Asuka. She needs you. Shinji? *
Shinji began to feel a pull.
"No! Its too soon!"
"She can't hear you Shinji. But you must go. Remember, even though I may not be able to respond, I will always be here to listen. Take care of Asuka."
"I will Mother."
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Inside cage 3
The entry plug lay open, seeping LCL onto the floor far below. Misato sat crying, holding the cloths that Shinji had worn into the plug. Sayoko stood at the far end of the platform, trying to keep the tears from falling.
'Oh Shinji...Why?.....What will I say to Asuka?' Sayoko started to turn to walk away, when a slurping noise was heard. Sayoko turned to see the nude form of Shinji now laying on the catwalk. Misato dropped the cloths and ran to him.
"SHINJI! SHINJI!" She scooped him up hugging him. Sayoko smiled as the medics ran past her to get to the Third Child and rescue him before he was smothered.
'Welcome back Shinji.'
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Author's Notes: I don't have any idea how some of you do this. I mean, I basically sat down and roughly plotted out what is going to happen, but DAMN! It is not as easy as it seems. Please keep the reviews coming.
Home Again / Mother?
The apartment was extremely quiet for the next three days. Asuka, when not in school remained in her room, Sayoko either remained in her room or sat on the balcony looking up at the sky. Misato just wanted to get drunk, but ended up spending most of her time checking on the 2 healthy pilots, and pestering Ritsuko on when they would be ready to pull Shinji out. Ritsuko finally blew a fuse and as a result, Misato was 'on leave' until either an Angel attacked or they were ready to retrieve the Third Child. Misato currently sat on the couch, watching soaps. Both Sayoko and Asuka were at school, so she had no one to talk to.
"GOD, I don't know how much more of this I can take!"
"Wark?"
Misato glanced down at Pen Pen. He was holding up a beer for her.
"Thanks Pen Pen. Just what the doctor ordered."
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SEELE 07: The scenario is running out of control! Unit 01 was not intended to receive the heart of an Angel.
SEELE 01: While unexpected, we can turn this into an advantage for us. Instrumentality will occur. The scenario will be modified accordingly.
SEELE 05: And what of our agent? What has he to report?
SEELE 03: The Magi prove difficult to access without raising attention to himself.
SEELE 05: And yet Agent Ryoji seems to have no difficulty. We require results.
SEELE 01: Agent Ryoji will be handled accordingly very soon. Untill then, we proceed as scheduled.
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"So where is Ikari?" asked Kensuke for the thousandth time.
Sayoko continued to stare off into space, ignoring Kensuke for the 3rd consecutive day.
"Come on! I want to know!"
"Ask Asuka. I'm not really in the mood."
"WHAT?! I'm not going to ask the demon!" Sayoko looked at Kensuke and gave him the glare. Kensuke took a step back.
"Asuka is my friend. She is NOT a demon. If you call her a demon again in my presence, I will show you what a demon really is. Do I make myself clear?"
"Uhh.....Yes Ma'am."
"Now leave me alone."
Kensuke quickly moved to his seat.
"Nice one." Sayoko turned to see Hikari standing behind her. "Would you really send a demon after him."
"Of course not. I'm just......"
"You don't need to say, Asuka told me about your Aunt."
"Did she say anything else?"
"No. I know something else is bothering her, but she won't say. It's about Shinji isn't it."
Sayoko sighed. "Yes it is."
"So where is he?"
"I can't say."
"Why not?"
"NERV security."
"Ok. Can you tell me when Touji will be coming back?"
Sayoko smiled. "Touji and Rei will be back to school tomorrow. But, they won't tell you where Shinji is either."
Hikari frowned. "Dammit. I'm Asuka's best friend. I want help her."
"Be there for her, let her know that your there. That should be enough." Sayoko started to rub the side of her head. "Just watch out. She has a nasty right hook."
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After school, Sayoko went to the NERV Infirmary to visit Rei. As Sayoko approached she saw Commander Ikari step out of Rei's room and begin to walk towards her. Sayoko stood at attention.
Sayoko bowed slightly. "Commander."
"Pilot Morisato. Why are you here?"
"To visit Rei sir. She is my friend."
"Friendship is unnecessary to pilot Eva. I suggest you leave Rei alone."
"Sir?"
"Leave Rei alone. Her welfare is my concern alone." With that, the Commander turned and left.
Sayoko just stared at the departing Commander. She then sighed looked up and mumbled a few choice swear words in old Norse that could make even a demon blush.
Sayoko continued to Rei's room.
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Asuka sat quietly in the park that overlooked Tokyo-3. It was here that she and Shinji had run to when they were attacked. It was also here that Sayoko saved them both. It was also a quiet place to think.
'Sayoko and Hikari are both trying to help me. Is it wrong to get help? Doesn't it make me weak? I need to be strong, for Shinji. But, Sayoko knows....that I miss...him, that I....care.' Asuka struggled to hold back the tears.
'Sayoko has helped me and Shinji. She continued to help me even though I....pushed her away. I have to do something for her, to show her...I care.'
Asuka pulled out her cell phone. She quickly dialed a number. "Kaji. It's Asuka. I need your help."
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"Hey Rei. How are you?"
"I am fine."
"What did the commander want?"
"He...wanted to know when I'll be able to pilot again."
'Of course he would.' thought Sayoko, "You shouldn't pilot until your 100% Rei. You could get injured again, or even killed if your not totally healed."
"It does not matter. I am replaceable." Sayoko turned and glared at Rei. Rei actually shrank into the bed.
"Don't say that Rei. Not matter what, you are NOT replaceable. All life is precious, no matter what!" Sayoko went quiet for a second. "Do you know why the commander wants me to avoid you?"
"He did not say. He did ask about you though. What we had talked about at school." Rei looked nervous.
"What did you say?" asked Sayoko quietly.
"I.....I....I did not tell him the truth." Rei said nervously. "I said we had talked of homework, nothing more."
Sayoko sighed. "It's alright Rei."
"No it is not. I felt......strange, lying to the commander. I do not like this feeling."
"Your feeling guilty Rei. Its normal to feel that in your ....situation." it was then that a thought occurred to Sayoko, something Asuka had mentioned about Rei. "Rei, What will you do if the commander orders you to stay way from me, outside of piloting?"
It was quiet in the room for several minutes.
"I....I do not know." Rei replied quietly. "I enjoy your company, but the commander must be obeyed. I am....uncertain what to do."
Sayoko could sense the turmoil in Rei's head. "Rei, no matter what happens, my promise to you still stands. Remember that."
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Sayoko left Rei and began to head towards the exit. The visit did not go as well as she hoped, but Sayoko felt better knowing Rei would be out soon. She had just left the Medical area and was heading towards the train when........
"Hello Miss Morisato."
Sayoko turned to see a rather scruffy looking guy in a NERV uniform. "Do I know you?"
"Sorry, my name is Kaji Ryoji. I'm a friend of Misato, Shinji and Asuka."
"What do you want?"
"Well for starters, I was asked to stop you from leaving. Asuka is on her way here to see you."
Sayoko looked at Kaji puzzled. "Why?"
"I don't know. But she has something planned."Kaji then flashed a grin, "So, what's it like, being on earth?"
Sayoko just stared at Kaji. "I have no idea what you mean."
"Of course you don't. I didn't think you would." said Kaji with a grin.
Sayoko was about to question Kaji on where he got his information when Asuka came tearing down the hallway.
"Thanks Kaji."
"No problem Asuka. I'm glad your doing ok. With all that has happened, its like there's a goddess looking over you." Sayoko looked like she was about to faint, Asuka just stared at Kaji.
"How?....Who?....When?..."
"Misato. Take care you two." Kaji then walked off down a hallway. Seconds later he reappeared walking in the opposite direction, talking to a rather attractive Female Tech.
"And I thought Urd was bad......" muttered Sayoko.
Asuka grabbed Sayoko's arm and hauled her out of NERV and into Tokyo-3. They continued walking until they reached a park.
"Alright Asuka. What's going on?"
Asuka smiled. "We are going on a trip."
"To where?"
"To see your Aunt Megumi."
Sayoko took a step back. "Wait one second! I never agreed to that!"
Asuka took a step forward. "Look Sayoko, you've been miserable for the past several days. You miss not having you Aunt around, she's the only family you've known." Asuka grabbed Sayoko's hand. "Misato, Shinji, and me.....We don't have anyone but each other. You still have a family member to talk to."
Sayoko was shaking. "But....She left...She doesn't want to see me."
"She was mad at your Aunts, not you."
"Then why doesn't she answer my letters?"
"Let's go ask."
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In Old Nekomi.
Old Nekomi had seen better days. Within 5 years of Second Impact, most of it had been flooded as a result of the rising sea level. A portion of it still remained above sea level....but not by much. It was a hill that once overlooked the city. On this hill stood a old temple, neglected by both time and people. The building was quiet. In one room stood an old mirror. The mirror began to glow, lighting up the inside of the temple. Two figures stepped out of the mirror, one was Sayoko, the other a very surprised Asuka.
"Wow." said Asuka. "Is it always like that?"
"Hmm?"
"Traveling by mirror."
"You get used to it. It is quicker then a train."
Sayoko took a look around her. 'I'm home momma.'
Asuka looked around the room. "What is this dump?"
"This was my parents home."
"Oh, sorry. Why are we here?"
Sayoko stepped over and opened the door to the hallway. "This is the only spot I can safely travel to without anyone taking notice." Sayoko continued to move into the hallway, Asuka followed and looked around. There was several doors in the hallway, 2 still had faded signs on them. One read 'Skuld Lab's', the other said 'Everyone's Tearoom'.
"When were you here last?" asked Asuka quietly.
"When I was 5. Old Nekomi had been mostly abandoned by then. Auntie Skuld and I left for Tokyo-2, instead going to Nekomi-2. 'Too many memories.' was her reason."
Sayoko and Asuka stepped out into the temple yard. The yard had long since become overgrown with weeds. Sayoko walked towards the gate, on the way she glanced at the old cherry tree that stood nearby. They continued down the path until they reached the main road, which was partially flooded. After walking for a half hour, they reached Nekomi-2.
"So where to?" asked Asuka.
"I don't know."
"What do you mean you don't know?! Can't you home in one her or something?"
"You expect me to find one person in a city of thousands?" asked Sayoko.
"Well you must know someone who lives here!"
"It's been ten years!"
"Bell.... Belldandy?" came a voice. Sayoko's face froze. She and Asuka slowly turned towards the person who spoke. A woman in her early forties walked up and took a closer look at Sayoko.
"Oh, I'm sorry. I thought you were someone I knew. Please excuse me." The woman started to walk away, but something familiar about her that caused Sayoko to speak up.
"Wait. How do you know Belldandy Morisato?"
The woman stopped at the mention of the last name. "I never said her last name. Who are you?"
"Sayoko Morisato. This is my friend Asuka Sohryu."
"Sayoko?" A big smile came to her face. "Wow. You have grown up! Its been ages since I'd seen you last, right before Skuld took you away."
Sayoko took another glance at the woman before she realized who it was. "Aunt Sayoko?"
The woman smiled, "I'm glad you remember me."
Asuka looked puzzled, "I thought you only has 1 mortal Aunt?"
Sayoko turned to Asuka, "This is my godmother, Sayoko Mishima. She was also my mom's best friend."
The elder Sayoko smiled, "Not at first. We kind of got off to a rocky relationship. But, later on though, things improved. So what brings you here?"
"We're here looking for her Aunt Megumi." said Asuka.
"Megumi? Where's Skuld?"
"Recalled by Kami-sama." said Sayoko, quietly.
"Recalled?!?! Why?"
"I'm not sure why. All goddesses have been recalled but me."
"But why are you looking for Megumi? I mean, Skuld told me what happened....."
"She's been moping around the apartment the last 3 days." answered Asuka. "Both of us needed something to do, So I thought she should go and see her Aunt."
The older woman took this all in. "Well, I'm not really sure where Megumi is. She was really upset after the funeral. She stayed in town for about 3 years." She turned towards Sayoko. "She did realize she had made a big mistake in not being around for you. But by that time, Skuld had already moved you away. She was upset because she knew she had really screwed up. 2 years after you left, Megumi finally moved away. I've heard from her from time to time. She does ask if I'd heard from you but, obviously, I haven't. Until now."
"Well if you could, get in touch with her and tell her to get in contact with me. I'm in Tokyo-3 at the moment." Sayoko waved her hand and a small card appeared. She handed it to the older Sayoko. "This is my phone number."
"I'll try and get a hold of her."
"Oh, here." Sayoko waved her hand again, producing 2 pictures. Both were of her and Skuld, when she became a 2nd Class Goddess. "For you and, if you see her, Aunt Megumi."
Old Sayoko looked at the picture. "Same outfit as your mother's" she said quietly. She looked back up. "Your parents would be so proud of you. Take care Sayoko."
Sayoko smiled. "You to Aunt Sayoko."
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Misato sat grumbling in the living room. A tower of empty beer cans sat piled next to her.
'Where are they? I'm hungry and it's Sayoko's turn to make dinner.' Misato got up. 'I need to wake myself up.' She went into the bathroom and began to splash water on her face. As she bent down, she heard noise. She looked up to see the mirror shimmering. Misato fell onto the floor and stared as Sayoko and Asuka came through the mirror. Both looked down at the surprised Major.
"Umm, Hi Misato." said Sayoko.
Misato stared at them for a second then got up and brushed herself off.
"I need another beer." Misato grumbled, leaving the bathroom.
Sayoko looked at Asuka.
"Well at least it wasn't Shinji using the bathroom." said Asuka.
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Somewhere
Shinji was in a large darkened room, at least he thought it was a room. He stood within a circle of light that moved where he moved. So far he had yet to reach a wall. He did feel a presence.
"Hello?"
"Shinji?"
Shinji turned around and saw a woman standing near him. She was in her late twenties and wearing a lab coat. His first thought was that it was Rei, but this person had brown hair, in fact she kind of looked like......
"Mother!" exclaimed Shinji. He ran forward and embraced her.
"Oh Shinji. Why are you here?"
"I was piloting Unit 01. The power ran out and then I guess it went berserk. But...where is here?" said Yui.
"This is the core of the Eva. I was pulled in 10 years ago."
"But....Father said you died....."
"Shinji, you were there, remember."
Shinji sat back as long hidden memories filled his mind. He saw himself smiling with his Mother, saw her waving as she entered Unit 01. He saw his younger self pressing his face against the observation window, the Eva going berserk, lots of yelling, his Father screaming his wife's name, and then an empty plug.
"I've been here ever since that day." said Yui, "Everytime your Eva went berserk, that was me helping you. But what made you decide to become a pilot?"
"Father sent for me."
"What do you mean he 'sent' for you?"
"He sent me away shortly after you 'died'."
Yui began to feel very pissed.
"Shinji, maybe you should start from the beginning"
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Inside cage 3
Techs were crawling all over Unit-01. Ritsuko stood with Maya helping to hook Unit-01 up to the Magi. Commander Ikari and Vice-Commander Fuyutsuki came up to them.
"Status."
"We should be ready to go in 2 weeks." said Ritsuko.
"Has there been any reaction out of the Eva since it was brought in here."
Ritsuko was about to reply when a low deep growl was emitted by the Eva. All the techs that had been on the Eva scattered. Even the Commanders took a few steps back. Everyone stared at Unit-01.
Commander Ikari recovered quickly. "Keep me informed." He immediately turned and left the cage with Fuyutsuki in tow. Upon reaching the elevator, Fuyutsuki turned to Ikari.
"You think Shinji is talking to her?"
"........."
"I don't think she's very happy."
"........."
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The next 2 weeks seemed to take forever. Finally, the day arrived when they would attempt to pull Shinji out. Dr. Akagi directed the techs in preparation for the attempt. Misato stood in the control room watching. Behind her and against the wall stood the plug suited form of Sayoko. Rei was in Unit 00 incase anything went wrong. Asuka was at school as was Touji. Misato turned and looked at Sayoko.
"Sorry I got you all suited up for nothing, I didn't think Unit 00 would be ready this soon. Just be prepared to jump into your Unit if something happens to Rei."
"Yes Ma'am."
Misato returned her attention to the preparations.
"Alright let's begin." said Ritsuko.
Within minutes the entire process started to go to hell. Through the chaos of the rapidly failing attempt, Sayoko decided to try something. She reached out with her mind and tried to touch Shinji in Unit 01.
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"Shinji, it's time for you to go." said Yui.
"But I don't want to lose you again."
"You are not going to lose me. I'll be right here. Besides, what will happen to Asuka if you stay? What about Rei? Misato? Sayoko?"
"What about you? Can you come out with me?"
"No. Not now. I must remain here for the time being. But....."
* Shinji? *
Both Yui and Shinji jumped at the unexpected voice.
* Shinji? Can you hear me? *
Shinji finally recognized the voice. "Sayoko?"
* Shinji? If you can hear me, they're trying to get you out. Please Shinji, for Asuka. She needs you. Shinji? *
Shinji began to feel a pull.
"No! Its too soon!"
"She can't hear you Shinji. But you must go. Remember, even though I may not be able to respond, I will always be here to listen. Take care of Asuka."
"I will Mother."
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Inside cage 3
The entry plug lay open, seeping LCL onto the floor far below. Misato sat crying, holding the cloths that Shinji had worn into the plug. Sayoko stood at the far end of the platform, trying to keep the tears from falling.
'Oh Shinji...Why?.....What will I say to Asuka?' Sayoko started to turn to walk away, when a slurping noise was heard. Sayoko turned to see the nude form of Shinji now laying on the catwalk. Misato dropped the cloths and ran to him.
"SHINJI! SHINJI!" She scooped him up hugging him. Sayoko smiled as the medics ran past her to get to the Third Child and rescue him before he was smothered.
'Welcome back Shinji.'
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Author's Notes: I don't have any idea how some of you do this. I mean, I basically sat down and roughly plotted out what is going to happen, but DAMN! It is not as easy as it seems. Please keep the reviews coming.