One of my reviewers said that Unit 01 was built from Adam. I'm afraid I'll
have to disagree with that one. I believe it says in the series that Unit
00 was built from Adam, though I can't be sure. Also, many EVA websites
also state that Unit 01 is different because it was built from Lilith, and
thus could be used to initiate the Third Impact. Oh, and just for the
record, in response to Marcos Edson, this wouldn't be the first time EVA
fans on ff.net would want to crucify me.
Flight
Chapter 8: Redemption
"Sir, Unit 14 is useless. There is no way we can repair it and I personally don't see any reason to try."
"Very well," the general agreed, "Scrap it. I want it destroyed. What is the status of Noah's Ark?"
"It will arrive tomorrow," the officer replied, "All space-based weapons platforms are online and ready. ICBMs are also locked on target."
"Good. Dismissed lieutenant."
The officer saluted and left the general's office. He passed the corridor that led down to the medical wing of the US Air Force base, where Hikari and Toji were standing and talking.
"So is everything actually going to work?" Hikari asked her husband.
"They think so," said Toji, "Unfortunately, I'm not too sure. Shooting everything we have at it might not be enough."
"But what other weapon do we have against that thing? NERV is destroyed and Unit 14 is completely useless."
"We still have Shinji. He's out there with Unit 01 and I'm hoping he'll pull off another miracle."
"Perhaps. I'm going to go check on Asuka."
"I'm coming with. Asuka seems to have changed now that her mother's back."
"She has something related to her to talk to," said Hikari, "I personally envy her. She has her mother back."
The two walked down the corridor to Kyoko's room. Asuka had refused to leave her mother and the Americans didn't know how to get around that, so they just moved in another bed and let Asuka stay with her mother. Toji had seen Kensuke, Makoto, Shigeru, and Maya. Of the four, Kensuke was going to be in the hottest water. As second-in-command of NERV, it was assumed that he must have known about some of the plans Misato had. Therefore, he was an accessory to all that had taken place. With Misato being put on trial for crimes against humanity, it was not a good place to be. The other three were charged with helping to conceal illegal activities and faced a large fine as well as jail time. Maya had taken the last part rather hard, and Toji felt some sympathy for the tech. He checked his watch. About now, his friends were getting their meals while he would be talking to Asuka. It hardly seemed fair, and perhaps he should have tried to get the others out. However, he was mainly concerned with his wife and he had done what he could. Perhaps the courts would be lenient with the others. Misato did deserve what ever the courts decided, Toji thought.
He walked through the door and found that Yui, Kyoko, Rei, Asuka, and Jessica were also in the room. The two older women were conversing like old friends, while Asuka and Hikari were looking after Jessica. Asuka had gotten into a game of chess with the little girl, and was getting killed. Either Jessica was a brilliant chess player or Asuka was letting her win. Knowing Asuka's personality, Toji was more likely to believe the first. Hikari watched the two intently.
"Hello Toji," Kyoko greeted, "When Hikari came, I knew we could expect you as well."
"Mrs. Soryu, Mrs. Ikari," Toji replied, "I hope you're well."
"As well as we can be," Yui replied, "Any word on Noah's Ark?"
"It'll be getting here in a door or two at most. Might get here in a few hours if it accelerates."
"Let's hope it doesn't. Apparently the government and military leaders don't know too much about the Dead Sea Scrolls."
"What are they missing?" Hikari asked, diverting her attention from the chess game. Asuka was as good as dead.
"There was reference to the Ark," said Kyoko, "A passage says that the Messiah will summon the weapon to destroy the Ark. We had always assumed that the Ark was the Evangelion. However, it is now clear that the scrolls were referring to Noah's Ark."
"So who is the Messiah?" Toji asked.
"We don't know. Perhaps Shinji, but I seriously doubt that," said Yui, "Shinji may have been able to accomplish many things, but this is beyond him."
"How do you know?" Toji asked.
"Do remember I've been through Shinji's head because he piloted Unit 01," Yui replied, "That boy has no secrets from me, and he does not have the ability to destroy the Ark."
The part about being in Shinji's head caught Asuka's attention. She forfeited, knowing Jessica would kill her anyways and moved to talk with Yui.
"You said Shinji had no secrets from you?"
Yui nodded. "You want to know what he feels about you."
A weak smile appeared on Asuka's face. It was rather obvious.
"Shinji loves two women, and he told the truth in his letter. He was trying to chose and make sure neither got hurt. However, one of them died."
Jessica moved next to Yui and Yui wrapped an arm around her. She knew that Sarah had been like a mother to Jessica, and didn't want to hurt her granddaughter.
"He does love you, Asuka, and if you let him finish mourning, he will choose you. It all depends on how you handle him when he returns."
"So he's safe?"
"I don't know," Yui admitted, "Shinji is most likely still in danger. I just hope he gets through all of this."
============================================================================
"General."
The general in command of NORAD looked up and saw his aide holding out a file for him. It was labeled top secret as usual.
"Thank you sergeant," Victor said, taking the folder.
He opened it and was rather surprised by the content. Victor finished reading over his orders and threw it away. Apparently the entire Western Hemisphere would be turned away when Noah's Ark arrived. Well, all that meant was that China, Russia, India, and Pakistan would be the ones launching a bunch of nukes to try to intercept it. He would have to make sure none of them headed for the US. Otherwise, massive retaliation. That would not be pretty. Victor got off of his seat and walked into the command center. Like many other generals in the US, Victor had met Sam. Looking back, Victor was rather surprised at all that Sam had accomplished. Now that the secret was out, Victor found it even harder to believe that Sam Richards was really Shinji Ikari, the legendary Third Child and savior of humanity. However, recent events had made the general change his mind. The capture of Unit 14 was brilliant and getting the UN to dance to American tones was not an easy thing to accomplish. However, in the end, Sam had died. Or was supposed to be dead. The Pentagon had released the video of the battle between Adam and Unit 14 and 01, showing a bloody conflict that shouldn't have happened. Unit 14 was disabled and its pilot was out of the fight until somehow he or she was able to throw the EVA's sword at Adam. Unit 01 then proceeded to tearing Adam to shreds and finally destroying its core. Overall, Victor was impressed. Sam might actually be alive, though the chances of it were slim and rather unbelievable. The fifty-year-old general stretched a little before getting back to work. He still had a job to do, and so did Sam.
============================================================================
"Lieutenant Maya Ibuki."
"Yes."
"How long have you worked at NERV?"
"Approximately eleven years," Maya answered.
"It is in the records that you were not aware of NERV's previous attempt to initiate the Third Impact," the officer said.
"No. I had joined NERV because I thought the organization was trying to keep it from happening."
"Yes. Now, you worked on the programming for the new dummy plug system NERV used with Adam. Were you aware of what the system was intended for?"
"I was told that it would be a backup for Unit 14," said Maya, "I knew little about the Adam Project. I was only aware we had possession of the Angel."
"So you were also aware of Unit 14."
"Yes. As a member of the Science Division I was aware of the designing and construction of Unit 14. I oversaw much of the designing, but I was not present for the construction."
"No, your colleague Shigeru Aoba was in charge of construction. Moving on, were you aware of Misato Katsuragi's plan?"
"No. I was never informed of why she wanted another EVA unit. I had thought it was to give NERV a bit more maneuvering capability in the international arena."
"Did you at any time consider reporting NERV's illegal activities?"
"That would be an act of disloyalty against NERV," Maya replied, "I never considered such an action."
"Very well. Lieutenant Ibuki, you are aware that you have been charged with assisting in an attempt to kill millions of people."
"I was following orders."
"Hmm. Is that a justification for your actions?"
"No. It is merely the reason why I did what I did."
============================================================================
"Lieutenant Makoto Hyuga. You've worked at NERV for about the same length of time as Lieutenants Ibuki and Aoba."
"Yes."
"What is your opinion regarding Misato Katsuragi?"
"She is an extremely intelligent woman and a good tactician."
"You were placed in charge of the construction of Adam's body armor, correct?"
"Yes."
"Did you know the reason for bringing Adam online?"
"No. I assumed it was to give NERV more political power in the international community."
"What of Unit 14 and the dummy plugs?"
"I was one of the assistants that worked on the designing of Unit 14, but I was not involved with the programming of the dummy plug."
"What exactly was your role regarding Adam?"
"I was ordered to provide technical support regarding weapons and armor."
"What was Lieutenant Ibuki's role?"
"She was the work out integrating the weapons and armor onto Adam."
"Who else was part of the design team?"
"Ms Ayanami."
"Her job?"
"She worked out the interface system for the entry plug and Adam's nervous system."
"What was your job in designing Unit 14?"
"My job was to put together a weapons system that was linked to the S2 engine and to ensure that the containment field for the engine was stable. A failure of the engine would be catastrophic."
"I am well aware of the results of such a failure. Lieutenant Hyuga, at any time did you ever consider informing the United Nations of the violations that NERV had committed?"
"No."
"Why?"
"Because though I may have been acquainted, my friends in NERV would have been charged."
============================================================================
"Lieutenant Shigeru Aoba. You were assigned to oversee the construction of Unit 14."
"Yes."
"Were you involved in the dummy plug system or Adam?"
"No."
"Were you involved in the designing of Unit 14?"
"Ms Soryu was the main designer, and I offered technical advice regarding the control systems."
"When did you arrive in Russia?"
"I first arrived in Russia approximately about two years ago. The designs had been completed and I was sent to make sure the construction equipment was ready."
"Who funded the construction?"
"The Russian government. They believed that by helping NERV, we would in turn help them at a later time."
"The construction took place at the Russian branch of NERV. Besides you, were any other NERV officers transferred from Tokyo 4 to Russia?"
"Only a few others of the tech team. Besides that, most of the personnel were Russians."
"Were you aware of the dummy plug program or Adam?"
"I knew that the dummy plug would be used with Unit 14, but I did not know that NERV had Adam. I had assumed that it was destroyed during the Second Impact, like most other NERV officers."
"Lieutenant Aoba, what is your assessment of Commander Katsuragi?"
"She is cunning and willing to go to great lengths to accomplish her goals. She was also ruthless and able to hurt others to accomplish her objectives, much like Gendo Ikari."
"Very true. What about Kensuke Aida?"
"The vice-commander supports the commander, in a fashion. He mostly has tried to ensure she doesn't step over the line too many times, or too far."
"After all that has happened, it doesn't seem he has succeeded."
"Commander Katsuragi usually is single-minded regarding her goals. Many times she does not take into consideration how trying to achieve them would affect others."
"That is rather obvious. Lieutenant, have you ever considered reporting in NERV's activities?"
"No. That would be disloyal to an organization that I have worked at for a very long time, and it would be betraying my friends' trust in me."
============================================================================
"Vice-Commander Kensuke Aida."
"Yes?"
"You were aware of most, if not all of the projects that NERV was running, correct?"
"Yes."
"Did you know about all of the projects when they were begun?"
"Yes. Commander Katsuragi consulted me regarding who to place in charge of which project, and who should know what."
"Were you involved directly in any of the projects?"
"I worked a little on the dummy plug program, supplying computer programming expertise when needed."
"Did you attempt to disillusion Commander Katsuragi from her course of action?"
"Yes. I told her that the risks were too great, and that I did not join NERV to hurt people."
"What was her response to that?"
"That NERV was founded to protect, not harm, no matter how it was distorted by Gendo Ikari."
"What about Noah's Ark? Were you aware of that?"
"I read the translation of the Dead Sea Scrolls and was aware of something rather important that we were missing. In the end, I did not figure out what exactly was happening until Commander Katsuragi ordered Rei to send for the Ark."
"During the time you were vice-commander of NERV, did Commander Katsuragi confide in you regarding her concerns?"
"Yes. She asked for my advice many times regarding other projects."
"What were these projects?"
"Most of them were preparation work for Adam, Unit 14, and the dummy plug."
"Did the commander ever ask for any political advice regarding her actions?"
"Yes. I warned her that it would most likely turn out badly for NERV, and it did. I tried to convince her to move more slowly."
"Were you aware of why General Richards left NERV?"
"We were informed that Shinji had deserted and ran away. Most of us had thought he had grown out of that habit, and at that time we were rather surprised by his actions. Later I found out Misato had told Shinji her plans regarding bringing back people that had died and that they cared about. It is my belief that Shinji found fault in it somehow, and he left."
"Vice-commander Aida, did you at any time consider reporting Commander Katsuragi's actions to the US forces or the UN?"
"No."
"Any particular reasons?"
"Commander Katsuragi trusted me, and it would be dishonorable breaking that trust. Besides, NERV is where my loyalties lie. I would also be selling out my friends if I reported on NERV."
============================================================================
"Loyalty to NERV, friends, if I didn't know better I'd say they got together and conspired to tell us the same thing over and over again."
The CIA staff in charge of interrogating and questioning the captured NERV officers were holding another meeting. The debriefing of the defected NERV officers had already been completed, and the key command staff officers was just finished. All of them had had time to read the reports and most had their own conclusions.
"So what exactly are we going to do with them?" the head of the staff asked, "Many of them were following orders, and I don't feel right charging them with anything that would get them sent to jail. Maybe a hefty fine, but otherwise it wouldn't seem right."
"My primary question is what we're going to do with Commander Katsuragi," one of the staffers said, "The judges are being summoned to The Hague but what exactly are we going to charge her with?"
"Threatening to initiate another Second Impact is definitely on the list," said another, "Attempted massacre of millions with a weapon of mass destruction, killing UN inspectors, killing US military personnel, disobeying a direct UN order, among others on a rather lengthy list. I'm going to feel sorry for whoever gets appointed to defend her."
"But what about the others?"
"We will have to decide what to do with them later," said the head, "Right now they're cooperating and therefore we can be lenient with them. I suggest we reconvene later. It's been a long day and we're going to need our rest. Noah's Ark is coming and I don't plan on missing its destruction."
============================================================================
Kyoko, Yui, and the others were all gathered in their room, watching the live feed from a NASA satellite of the Ark's approach. The ship looked like a broadsword without the hilt or handle. It wasn't flat and looked rather imposing. The Asian countries had all mobilized their ballistic arsenals and were waiting for the object to come within range. Everyone in the room was waiting impatiently for the missiles to be launched and the thing to be wiped out of existence. That one thing had caused much suffering already and all of them would be glad to see it gone.
============================================================================
Misato Katsuragi was in her cell. She knew that Noah's Ark was approaching fast. She also knew that nothing would be able to stop it. She had the ability to control it, and no one else did. Perhaps things would turn out right after all. A smile crept onto her face. She would finally be reunited with Kaji.
============================================================================
"This is NORAD."
"Have the missiles been launched yet?" the man on the end of the line asked.
"Not yet sir. We expect them to light off any second now."
"Keep an eye on everything. We don't want something unexpected to happen."
"Yes sir."
Victor put down the phone and looked at the holographic display. The Ark would be within missile range in fifteen seconds. He waited patiently, but it seemed as if time was standing still. Finally, lights started blinking all over the maps of China, Siberia, India, and Pakistan. The major powers launched all of their ballistic arsenals, nuclear and N2, and they all were targeted for the Ark. None of the powers had tried anything. Victor watched nervously as the missiles streaked towards the Ark. When they were within a few hundred kilometers, dozens of them exploded.
"What went wrong?" he asked the tech.
"The Ark is emitting some kind of energy pulse," the tech answered, "It's frying the missile circuitry and causing many to explode prematurely."
"A defensive mechanism?"
"Probably sir."
More missiles exploded, and only one made it through. It struck an AT- Field and was destroyed.
"That shouldn't have been possible," said Victor, "An AT-Field can only be generated by a living being."
"Maybe the Ark is alive," an officer suggested.
"Space Command is opening fire," another reported.
Laser weapons placed on satellites opened fire and the beams all struck the AT-Field. No matter how many of them there were, they were unable to penetrate the AT-Field.
"Nothing is penetrating!" a panicked officer yelled.
"Stay calm," Victor ordered. Damn it Sam, if you're going to pull a miracle, do it now.
============================================================================
The Ark was preparing to enter Earth's atmosphere when suddenly something hit it. A purple mass had landed on its AT-Field and was trying to punch through it. Normally this would have been ineffective but Unit 01 was wielding the replica Lance that it had taken from Adam. The Lance was close enough to the original that it was able to create an opening in the AT-Field. Unit 01 grabbed onto it and was able to tear a large enough hole to get through. The EVA landed on the hull of the ship and stabbed it with the Lance. Suddenly a beam of light struck it and Unit 01 lost the Lance. It was blown out of its hand and disappeared into the atmosphere. Unit 01 turned and saw its adversary. The creature looked very much like Sachiel and leapt at Unit 01. The creature tried to smash Unit 01's head but the EVA caught its arms and threw it away. The creature landed on its feet and fired a bolt of white energy. Unit 01 staggered back from the blast and stumbled. It dropped to its knees and was a sitting duck for the creature. The creature attacked again, knocking Unit 01 down. Suddenly patterns of orange hexagons appeared around Unit 01. They spread out and when they touched the creature it withered in pain. Unit 01 charged it and drove it down hard on the hull of the Ark. It then dug at its core and found it easily. After ripping all of the flesh and bones out from around it, the EVA smashed the core to pieces with one powerful blow. Once the creature was destroyed, Unit 01 turned its attention back to destroying the Ark. It raised its arms and the hexagons continued to spread, covering the entire ship. Suddenly a massive explosion struck Unit 01 and it was knocked off the Ark. It hit the atmosphere and the friction started to heat it up intensely. The EVA was motionless as it crashed to Earth. Suddenly, its eyes lit up and flashed. The EVA shone brightly like a star and stopped falling. It then floated to face the Ark as it plummeted down to Earth.
End of Chapter 8
I lied. There will be at least another chapter and an epilogue after this chapter. Also, I'll be writing a sequel to this called Adaptation. You'll see why at the end of this fic.
Z98
Flight
Chapter 8: Redemption
"Sir, Unit 14 is useless. There is no way we can repair it and I personally don't see any reason to try."
"Very well," the general agreed, "Scrap it. I want it destroyed. What is the status of Noah's Ark?"
"It will arrive tomorrow," the officer replied, "All space-based weapons platforms are online and ready. ICBMs are also locked on target."
"Good. Dismissed lieutenant."
The officer saluted and left the general's office. He passed the corridor that led down to the medical wing of the US Air Force base, where Hikari and Toji were standing and talking.
"So is everything actually going to work?" Hikari asked her husband.
"They think so," said Toji, "Unfortunately, I'm not too sure. Shooting everything we have at it might not be enough."
"But what other weapon do we have against that thing? NERV is destroyed and Unit 14 is completely useless."
"We still have Shinji. He's out there with Unit 01 and I'm hoping he'll pull off another miracle."
"Perhaps. I'm going to go check on Asuka."
"I'm coming with. Asuka seems to have changed now that her mother's back."
"She has something related to her to talk to," said Hikari, "I personally envy her. She has her mother back."
The two walked down the corridor to Kyoko's room. Asuka had refused to leave her mother and the Americans didn't know how to get around that, so they just moved in another bed and let Asuka stay with her mother. Toji had seen Kensuke, Makoto, Shigeru, and Maya. Of the four, Kensuke was going to be in the hottest water. As second-in-command of NERV, it was assumed that he must have known about some of the plans Misato had. Therefore, he was an accessory to all that had taken place. With Misato being put on trial for crimes against humanity, it was not a good place to be. The other three were charged with helping to conceal illegal activities and faced a large fine as well as jail time. Maya had taken the last part rather hard, and Toji felt some sympathy for the tech. He checked his watch. About now, his friends were getting their meals while he would be talking to Asuka. It hardly seemed fair, and perhaps he should have tried to get the others out. However, he was mainly concerned with his wife and he had done what he could. Perhaps the courts would be lenient with the others. Misato did deserve what ever the courts decided, Toji thought.
He walked through the door and found that Yui, Kyoko, Rei, Asuka, and Jessica were also in the room. The two older women were conversing like old friends, while Asuka and Hikari were looking after Jessica. Asuka had gotten into a game of chess with the little girl, and was getting killed. Either Jessica was a brilliant chess player or Asuka was letting her win. Knowing Asuka's personality, Toji was more likely to believe the first. Hikari watched the two intently.
"Hello Toji," Kyoko greeted, "When Hikari came, I knew we could expect you as well."
"Mrs. Soryu, Mrs. Ikari," Toji replied, "I hope you're well."
"As well as we can be," Yui replied, "Any word on Noah's Ark?"
"It'll be getting here in a door or two at most. Might get here in a few hours if it accelerates."
"Let's hope it doesn't. Apparently the government and military leaders don't know too much about the Dead Sea Scrolls."
"What are they missing?" Hikari asked, diverting her attention from the chess game. Asuka was as good as dead.
"There was reference to the Ark," said Kyoko, "A passage says that the Messiah will summon the weapon to destroy the Ark. We had always assumed that the Ark was the Evangelion. However, it is now clear that the scrolls were referring to Noah's Ark."
"So who is the Messiah?" Toji asked.
"We don't know. Perhaps Shinji, but I seriously doubt that," said Yui, "Shinji may have been able to accomplish many things, but this is beyond him."
"How do you know?" Toji asked.
"Do remember I've been through Shinji's head because he piloted Unit 01," Yui replied, "That boy has no secrets from me, and he does not have the ability to destroy the Ark."
The part about being in Shinji's head caught Asuka's attention. She forfeited, knowing Jessica would kill her anyways and moved to talk with Yui.
"You said Shinji had no secrets from you?"
Yui nodded. "You want to know what he feels about you."
A weak smile appeared on Asuka's face. It was rather obvious.
"Shinji loves two women, and he told the truth in his letter. He was trying to chose and make sure neither got hurt. However, one of them died."
Jessica moved next to Yui and Yui wrapped an arm around her. She knew that Sarah had been like a mother to Jessica, and didn't want to hurt her granddaughter.
"He does love you, Asuka, and if you let him finish mourning, he will choose you. It all depends on how you handle him when he returns."
"So he's safe?"
"I don't know," Yui admitted, "Shinji is most likely still in danger. I just hope he gets through all of this."
============================================================================
"General."
The general in command of NORAD looked up and saw his aide holding out a file for him. It was labeled top secret as usual.
"Thank you sergeant," Victor said, taking the folder.
He opened it and was rather surprised by the content. Victor finished reading over his orders and threw it away. Apparently the entire Western Hemisphere would be turned away when Noah's Ark arrived. Well, all that meant was that China, Russia, India, and Pakistan would be the ones launching a bunch of nukes to try to intercept it. He would have to make sure none of them headed for the US. Otherwise, massive retaliation. That would not be pretty. Victor got off of his seat and walked into the command center. Like many other generals in the US, Victor had met Sam. Looking back, Victor was rather surprised at all that Sam had accomplished. Now that the secret was out, Victor found it even harder to believe that Sam Richards was really Shinji Ikari, the legendary Third Child and savior of humanity. However, recent events had made the general change his mind. The capture of Unit 14 was brilliant and getting the UN to dance to American tones was not an easy thing to accomplish. However, in the end, Sam had died. Or was supposed to be dead. The Pentagon had released the video of the battle between Adam and Unit 14 and 01, showing a bloody conflict that shouldn't have happened. Unit 14 was disabled and its pilot was out of the fight until somehow he or she was able to throw the EVA's sword at Adam. Unit 01 then proceeded to tearing Adam to shreds and finally destroying its core. Overall, Victor was impressed. Sam might actually be alive, though the chances of it were slim and rather unbelievable. The fifty-year-old general stretched a little before getting back to work. He still had a job to do, and so did Sam.
============================================================================
"Lieutenant Maya Ibuki."
"Yes."
"How long have you worked at NERV?"
"Approximately eleven years," Maya answered.
"It is in the records that you were not aware of NERV's previous attempt to initiate the Third Impact," the officer said.
"No. I had joined NERV because I thought the organization was trying to keep it from happening."
"Yes. Now, you worked on the programming for the new dummy plug system NERV used with Adam. Were you aware of what the system was intended for?"
"I was told that it would be a backup for Unit 14," said Maya, "I knew little about the Adam Project. I was only aware we had possession of the Angel."
"So you were also aware of Unit 14."
"Yes. As a member of the Science Division I was aware of the designing and construction of Unit 14. I oversaw much of the designing, but I was not present for the construction."
"No, your colleague Shigeru Aoba was in charge of construction. Moving on, were you aware of Misato Katsuragi's plan?"
"No. I was never informed of why she wanted another EVA unit. I had thought it was to give NERV a bit more maneuvering capability in the international arena."
"Did you at any time consider reporting NERV's illegal activities?"
"That would be an act of disloyalty against NERV," Maya replied, "I never considered such an action."
"Very well. Lieutenant Ibuki, you are aware that you have been charged with assisting in an attempt to kill millions of people."
"I was following orders."
"Hmm. Is that a justification for your actions?"
"No. It is merely the reason why I did what I did."
============================================================================
"Lieutenant Makoto Hyuga. You've worked at NERV for about the same length of time as Lieutenants Ibuki and Aoba."
"Yes."
"What is your opinion regarding Misato Katsuragi?"
"She is an extremely intelligent woman and a good tactician."
"You were placed in charge of the construction of Adam's body armor, correct?"
"Yes."
"Did you know the reason for bringing Adam online?"
"No. I assumed it was to give NERV more political power in the international community."
"What of Unit 14 and the dummy plugs?"
"I was one of the assistants that worked on the designing of Unit 14, but I was not involved with the programming of the dummy plug."
"What exactly was your role regarding Adam?"
"I was ordered to provide technical support regarding weapons and armor."
"What was Lieutenant Ibuki's role?"
"She was the work out integrating the weapons and armor onto Adam."
"Who else was part of the design team?"
"Ms Ayanami."
"Her job?"
"She worked out the interface system for the entry plug and Adam's nervous system."
"What was your job in designing Unit 14?"
"My job was to put together a weapons system that was linked to the S2 engine and to ensure that the containment field for the engine was stable. A failure of the engine would be catastrophic."
"I am well aware of the results of such a failure. Lieutenant Hyuga, at any time did you ever consider informing the United Nations of the violations that NERV had committed?"
"No."
"Why?"
"Because though I may have been acquainted, my friends in NERV would have been charged."
============================================================================
"Lieutenant Shigeru Aoba. You were assigned to oversee the construction of Unit 14."
"Yes."
"Were you involved in the dummy plug system or Adam?"
"No."
"Were you involved in the designing of Unit 14?"
"Ms Soryu was the main designer, and I offered technical advice regarding the control systems."
"When did you arrive in Russia?"
"I first arrived in Russia approximately about two years ago. The designs had been completed and I was sent to make sure the construction equipment was ready."
"Who funded the construction?"
"The Russian government. They believed that by helping NERV, we would in turn help them at a later time."
"The construction took place at the Russian branch of NERV. Besides you, were any other NERV officers transferred from Tokyo 4 to Russia?"
"Only a few others of the tech team. Besides that, most of the personnel were Russians."
"Were you aware of the dummy plug program or Adam?"
"I knew that the dummy plug would be used with Unit 14, but I did not know that NERV had Adam. I had assumed that it was destroyed during the Second Impact, like most other NERV officers."
"Lieutenant Aoba, what is your assessment of Commander Katsuragi?"
"She is cunning and willing to go to great lengths to accomplish her goals. She was also ruthless and able to hurt others to accomplish her objectives, much like Gendo Ikari."
"Very true. What about Kensuke Aida?"
"The vice-commander supports the commander, in a fashion. He mostly has tried to ensure she doesn't step over the line too many times, or too far."
"After all that has happened, it doesn't seem he has succeeded."
"Commander Katsuragi usually is single-minded regarding her goals. Many times she does not take into consideration how trying to achieve them would affect others."
"That is rather obvious. Lieutenant, have you ever considered reporting in NERV's activities?"
"No. That would be disloyal to an organization that I have worked at for a very long time, and it would be betraying my friends' trust in me."
============================================================================
"Vice-Commander Kensuke Aida."
"Yes?"
"You were aware of most, if not all of the projects that NERV was running, correct?"
"Yes."
"Did you know about all of the projects when they were begun?"
"Yes. Commander Katsuragi consulted me regarding who to place in charge of which project, and who should know what."
"Were you involved directly in any of the projects?"
"I worked a little on the dummy plug program, supplying computer programming expertise when needed."
"Did you attempt to disillusion Commander Katsuragi from her course of action?"
"Yes. I told her that the risks were too great, and that I did not join NERV to hurt people."
"What was her response to that?"
"That NERV was founded to protect, not harm, no matter how it was distorted by Gendo Ikari."
"What about Noah's Ark? Were you aware of that?"
"I read the translation of the Dead Sea Scrolls and was aware of something rather important that we were missing. In the end, I did not figure out what exactly was happening until Commander Katsuragi ordered Rei to send for the Ark."
"During the time you were vice-commander of NERV, did Commander Katsuragi confide in you regarding her concerns?"
"Yes. She asked for my advice many times regarding other projects."
"What were these projects?"
"Most of them were preparation work for Adam, Unit 14, and the dummy plug."
"Did the commander ever ask for any political advice regarding her actions?"
"Yes. I warned her that it would most likely turn out badly for NERV, and it did. I tried to convince her to move more slowly."
"Were you aware of why General Richards left NERV?"
"We were informed that Shinji had deserted and ran away. Most of us had thought he had grown out of that habit, and at that time we were rather surprised by his actions. Later I found out Misato had told Shinji her plans regarding bringing back people that had died and that they cared about. It is my belief that Shinji found fault in it somehow, and he left."
"Vice-commander Aida, did you at any time consider reporting Commander Katsuragi's actions to the US forces or the UN?"
"No."
"Any particular reasons?"
"Commander Katsuragi trusted me, and it would be dishonorable breaking that trust. Besides, NERV is where my loyalties lie. I would also be selling out my friends if I reported on NERV."
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"Loyalty to NERV, friends, if I didn't know better I'd say they got together and conspired to tell us the same thing over and over again."
The CIA staff in charge of interrogating and questioning the captured NERV officers were holding another meeting. The debriefing of the defected NERV officers had already been completed, and the key command staff officers was just finished. All of them had had time to read the reports and most had their own conclusions.
"So what exactly are we going to do with them?" the head of the staff asked, "Many of them were following orders, and I don't feel right charging them with anything that would get them sent to jail. Maybe a hefty fine, but otherwise it wouldn't seem right."
"My primary question is what we're going to do with Commander Katsuragi," one of the staffers said, "The judges are being summoned to The Hague but what exactly are we going to charge her with?"
"Threatening to initiate another Second Impact is definitely on the list," said another, "Attempted massacre of millions with a weapon of mass destruction, killing UN inspectors, killing US military personnel, disobeying a direct UN order, among others on a rather lengthy list. I'm going to feel sorry for whoever gets appointed to defend her."
"But what about the others?"
"We will have to decide what to do with them later," said the head, "Right now they're cooperating and therefore we can be lenient with them. I suggest we reconvene later. It's been a long day and we're going to need our rest. Noah's Ark is coming and I don't plan on missing its destruction."
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Kyoko, Yui, and the others were all gathered in their room, watching the live feed from a NASA satellite of the Ark's approach. The ship looked like a broadsword without the hilt or handle. It wasn't flat and looked rather imposing. The Asian countries had all mobilized their ballistic arsenals and were waiting for the object to come within range. Everyone in the room was waiting impatiently for the missiles to be launched and the thing to be wiped out of existence. That one thing had caused much suffering already and all of them would be glad to see it gone.
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Misato Katsuragi was in her cell. She knew that Noah's Ark was approaching fast. She also knew that nothing would be able to stop it. She had the ability to control it, and no one else did. Perhaps things would turn out right after all. A smile crept onto her face. She would finally be reunited with Kaji.
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"This is NORAD."
"Have the missiles been launched yet?" the man on the end of the line asked.
"Not yet sir. We expect them to light off any second now."
"Keep an eye on everything. We don't want something unexpected to happen."
"Yes sir."
Victor put down the phone and looked at the holographic display. The Ark would be within missile range in fifteen seconds. He waited patiently, but it seemed as if time was standing still. Finally, lights started blinking all over the maps of China, Siberia, India, and Pakistan. The major powers launched all of their ballistic arsenals, nuclear and N2, and they all were targeted for the Ark. None of the powers had tried anything. Victor watched nervously as the missiles streaked towards the Ark. When they were within a few hundred kilometers, dozens of them exploded.
"What went wrong?" he asked the tech.
"The Ark is emitting some kind of energy pulse," the tech answered, "It's frying the missile circuitry and causing many to explode prematurely."
"A defensive mechanism?"
"Probably sir."
More missiles exploded, and only one made it through. It struck an AT- Field and was destroyed.
"That shouldn't have been possible," said Victor, "An AT-Field can only be generated by a living being."
"Maybe the Ark is alive," an officer suggested.
"Space Command is opening fire," another reported.
Laser weapons placed on satellites opened fire and the beams all struck the AT-Field. No matter how many of them there were, they were unable to penetrate the AT-Field.
"Nothing is penetrating!" a panicked officer yelled.
"Stay calm," Victor ordered. Damn it Sam, if you're going to pull a miracle, do it now.
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The Ark was preparing to enter Earth's atmosphere when suddenly something hit it. A purple mass had landed on its AT-Field and was trying to punch through it. Normally this would have been ineffective but Unit 01 was wielding the replica Lance that it had taken from Adam. The Lance was close enough to the original that it was able to create an opening in the AT-Field. Unit 01 grabbed onto it and was able to tear a large enough hole to get through. The EVA landed on the hull of the ship and stabbed it with the Lance. Suddenly a beam of light struck it and Unit 01 lost the Lance. It was blown out of its hand and disappeared into the atmosphere. Unit 01 turned and saw its adversary. The creature looked very much like Sachiel and leapt at Unit 01. The creature tried to smash Unit 01's head but the EVA caught its arms and threw it away. The creature landed on its feet and fired a bolt of white energy. Unit 01 staggered back from the blast and stumbled. It dropped to its knees and was a sitting duck for the creature. The creature attacked again, knocking Unit 01 down. Suddenly patterns of orange hexagons appeared around Unit 01. They spread out and when they touched the creature it withered in pain. Unit 01 charged it and drove it down hard on the hull of the Ark. It then dug at its core and found it easily. After ripping all of the flesh and bones out from around it, the EVA smashed the core to pieces with one powerful blow. Once the creature was destroyed, Unit 01 turned its attention back to destroying the Ark. It raised its arms and the hexagons continued to spread, covering the entire ship. Suddenly a massive explosion struck Unit 01 and it was knocked off the Ark. It hit the atmosphere and the friction started to heat it up intensely. The EVA was motionless as it crashed to Earth. Suddenly, its eyes lit up and flashed. The EVA shone brightly like a star and stopped falling. It then floated to face the Ark as it plummeted down to Earth.
End of Chapter 8
I lied. There will be at least another chapter and an epilogue after this chapter. Also, I'll be writing a sequel to this called Adaptation. You'll see why at the end of this fic.
Z98
