Author's notes:
Before starting this chapter, I wanted to thank Magius and Sakura-Angel for their reviews. It is so good to know, that at last some people read this story, and possibly even liked this story.
I am sorry for Gendo being a bit out of character; but I view most of it as character development, not out of character behavior. You know, people always keep changing; and since this story alternative variation of continue of the original Neon Genesis Evangelion storyline, the characters will keep changing, mostly in a different way, then they changed in the original Neon Genesis Evangelion animated series. But still, if you want to see more of evil and cruel Gendo, as he was in the original Neon Genesis Evangelion animated series and movies, then I will try my best to make Gendo act more like he acted was in the original Neon Genesis Evangelion animated series and movies. After all, I write this story for you, not for myself.
I am also sorry, for it took me quite a long amount of time to finish this chapter. But unfortunately, with coming of my spring session, I don't have much time to write. Also, it didn't help, that I have a lot of other stories to continue.
Also, with this chapter, I decided to change genre of this story from Action/Adventure/Romance to Supernatural/Action/Adventure. However, this doesn't mean, that course of this story will change; I have just chose genre, which, as I believe, will suit this story much better.
And one last thing. Text in 'xxx' – is text at computer screen or computer voice. I make it this way, so you wouldn't confuse it with normal dialogue.
And now, without further ado, let this story continue!
Combat simulation (Afternoon of the next day; in the United Forces secret military/research base near Osaka)
"All systems activated"
"Prepare to adjust neuro-links"
"All neuro-links were adjust successfully"
"All systems function normally"
"All weapons on-line"
"Prepare to initiate virtual projection"
"Virtual projection has been successfully initiated"
Huge robot-like figure stood in the middle of the city, towering above the buildings. This particular robot-like figure was known as Advanced Robotic Leader. Even thou all this was just an illusion, the man, who piloted Advanced Robotic Leader was in the serious mood. And those, who commanded this operation, were in the serious mood too.
"Lieutenant James, you will have only one minute. Are you ready, Lieutenant James?"
"Yes, let the bastards come!"
"Very well, prepare to initiate combat simulation"
"Combat sequence has been successfully initiated"
Suddenly Advanced Robotic Leader's enemy – other robot-like figure appeared at some distance in front of Advanced Robotic Leader with its rifle ready to fire. Instantly enemy opened fire at Advanced Robotic Leader, but Advanced Robotic Leader jumped high into air, avoiding its enemy's fire. Then Advanced Robotic Leader landed on its enemy, striking it hard with both its legs. Advanced Robotic Leader's enemy couldn't withstand Advanced Robotic Leader's massive weight, and it fall to the ground, exploding in small harmless explosion.
"Lieutenant James' reaction is quite good"
"I agree, yet I see nothing too extraordinary here"
"You just wait and see"
Another enemy appeared, this time at longer distance from Advanced Robotic Leader. And as the previous one, the enemy opened fire at Advanced Robotic Leader from its rifle. Advanced Robotic Leader fall to the ground and rolled into enemy's direction. Then once again, Advanced Robotic Leader jumped high into air, and landed on its enemy, striking it with both its legs, and destroying its enemy immediately.
"He risk falling into patterns"
"Yes, its true. But still, his skills are remarkable, aren't they?"
"We shall see"
Another enemy appeared, this time right behind Advanced Robotic Leader's back. This enemy was armed with huge sword instead of rifle, and this enemy immediately made swing at Advanced Robotic Leader. However, Advanced Robotic Leader quickly ducked under its enemy's swing, and before enemy could recover from its swing, blade extended from Advanced Robotic Leader's right arm, and Advanced Robotic Leader plunged its blade deep into enemy's torso.
"He is always on alert, it is a good quality for soldier"
"Yes, indeed it is"
This time, two enemies appeared at some distance to the left from Advanced Robotic Leader, and opened fire from their rifles. Skillfully avoiding all enemy shots, Advanced Robotic Leader rushed toward the enemies, and when distance was close enough, it made a jump. Advanced Robotic Leader landed right behind the enemies, and before they turned, Advanced Robotic Leader plunged its blades on both its right and left hand into its enemies backs.
"Very well. I have seen enough."
"What? Don't you want to see the combat simulation unit its end?"
"No, there is no need for that. I see, that Lieutenant James is skillful soldier, and more then worthy to pilot our first Advanced Robotic Unit – Advanced Robotic Leader. Even if he will be defeated later during this simulation, it will not change my opinion about him. After all, nobody is perfect."
"Very well, I will find two others worthy candidates for Bermuda Triangle Squad as soon as possible."
"I am glad to hear that. By the way, sent Lieutenant James and his Advanced Robotic Leader to our outpost near Tokyo-3. Nobody knows, what may happen in next moment. And so, we must be ready."
"But, General Schwartz, alone he will be vulnerable. Please give me more time to find two others worthy candidates for Bermuda Triangle Squad."
"I can't do that. Defending Tokyo-3 is our highest priority. So, Lieutenant James will have to work alone, until you will finish finding two others worthy candidates for Bermuda Triangle Squad. I hope, it won't take you too long."
Evening off duty (Evening of the next day; in the Tokyo-3)"It was a hell of the day" – complained Shinji to Misato, as she drove him home – "Whole day spent in the NERV headquarters. I know it is defensive measure, but still…"
"Don't worry" – said Misato – "It is what Commander Ikari required: to have at last one Evangelion pilot fully ready for battle at NERV headquarters at any time. However, I though about this, and I realized, that half a day shifts would indeed be too much for you. So, I will separate day in four shifts instead. Despite the fact, that sometimes one or another of you will have to have two shifts one after another, it will still make your duty a bit easier. But it is all, I am able to do for you. We don't know when Devils will attack again, so we have to be ready at any time."
"By the way, Miss Misato?.."
"Yes, what is it?"
"You knew almost exactly, when Angels were going to attack, but don't know when Devils are going to attack, why is that?"
"I don't really know. I know only that attacks of the Angels fall into some kind of pattern, but attacks of the Devils didn't make much sense, at last for now."
"I see. And nobody know, when next attack will happen, right?"
"No. Next attack can happen at any time. I could be happening right now, and we won't know it."
"I see"
The rest of their trip was silent.
The time between light and darkness (A half an hour later; in the mountains near Tokyo-3)
Two giant figures stood in the mountains near Tokyo-3, overlooking the city. The sun was already setting, dying sky into blood red color, and giving Tokyo-3 a bit hellish appearance. The Evening. The time between light and darkness. The only time, when they could be truly together in their real forms, not in their pathetic human forms. Neither of them was in the height of his power during the evening, but they were together, and when they were together, nobody could possibly oppose them.
Two giant figures were different, just as night and day, of which they were embodiments. But despite their differences, they were closer to each other then any others Saviors, for they knew, that just as day and night, they had no purpose without each other. They knew little about others Saviors, for others Saviors didn't came into contact with them yet, but still, they knew each other as Eighth Savior and Ninth Savior.
Eighth Savior was embodiment of night and darkness, and this showed even in his appearance. Eighth Savior's tall and strong body was enclosed in ebon black scaled armor. Large horns grew from Eighth Savior's head, and long sharp claws grew from Eighth Savior's hands and feet. And nobody could possibly mistaken Eighth Savior's horns and claws for just an ornament; for it was clear, that both Eighth Savior's horns and claws were deadly weapons. In the gloom of the evening, Eighth Savior's eyes glow dark red, as if the were responding to dark red color of setting sun. All these take together gave Eighth Savior demonic appearance.
On the other hand, Ninth Savior's appearance was far from demonic, for Ninth Savior was embodiment of day and light. His heavily armored skin was bright golden in color. Instead of Eighth Savior's horns and claws, Ninth Savior had sharp curved blades at his elbows and knees. Ninth Savior's blades were platinum in color. Ninth Savior's glowing eyes were bright white in color.
"Ready, Brother?" – asked Eighth Savior.
"Always ready" – answered Ninth Savior – "With you at my side, I fear nothing!"
"Right now they have at last two operating Evangelions" – said Eighth Savior – "Three, if they have already finished repairing Red Evangelion, and that is very likely."
"Yes, it would be harder then all our previous battles" – agreed Ninth Savior – "But when we are together, nothing can possibly oppose us!"
"I hope you are right" – said Eighth Savior – "Just remember to retreat as soon as your power will begin to wane. I don't want to lose you, Brother."
"I don't want to leave you alone too, Brother" – said Ninth Savior – "Don't worry, I am not going to throw my life away. I will retreat as soon as my power will begin to wane. But I guess, that we will have about half an hour or even more to have fun."
"Right you are" – said Eighth Savior.
And then both Saviors as one rushed toward Tokyo-3, and their huge muscular bodies in the red rays of setting sun seemed to be not embodiments of night and day, but embodiments of power, destruction and death.
Evening on duty (A few minutes later; in NERV command office)
This was the first time, when Kensuke started to see bad sides of working for NERV. Kensuke didn't mind spending whole day in the NERV headquarters, for it was much more interesting then sitting at home, or walking through Tokyo-3 streets; however Kensuke valued his night sleep, and so he wasn't too happy by staying at NERV headquarters for the whole night, especially when Misato wasn't around, and his only companion was Maya.
"So, how good was my synchronization rate during synchronization test this morning?" – asked Kensuke after a few minutes of silence – "Everyone was so busy back then, that I didn't get a chance to ask it back then."
"Quite good" – answered Maya – "During your previous synchronization test your synchronization rate reached 57,0 percent. Right now, you displayed better synchronization then both Asuka and Rei during their last battles, and much better synchronization then Shinji during his last synchronization test. So now, you have best synchronization among all Evangelion pilots."
"Wow, cool!" – shouted Kensuke – "I always wanted to be Evangelion pilot, but I never dreamed to be the best Evangelion pilot!"
"Don't be too proud" – smiled Maya – "High synchronization rate is without doubt key to victory in battle, but still, combat skills are important too. And unfortunately, so far you are least skilled pilot, despite your highest synchronization rate."
"Yeah, I know that" – said Kensuke, instantly becoming gloomy – "But how am I suppose to be skillful pilot, if I was recruited just about a week ago?! You didn't even introduced me into Advanced Combat Training, you have introduced me only into Basic Combat Training. And you expected me to be the best of the best of the best just after Basic Combat Training?!"
"Don't take it too close to heart" – said Maya and gave Kensuke a comforting smile – "We didn't expected anything from you. I just wanted to noted this fact to you, so you wouldn't be overconfident in battle. Confidence is a good thing, but overconfidence isn't. Still, I must say, that you have performed wonderfully during your first battle. So, don't be so gloomy. If another Devil will attack us now, you mustn't go into battle with that look upon you face."
"Okay, I…" – started Kensuke, but he was rudely interrupted, for one of the security screens suddenly glowed bright red, and focused on two giant humanoid figures, who went toward Tokyo-3, and now almost reached it.
"Speaking of the Devil…" – muttered Maya under her breath.
"Kensuke, go to your Evangelion and prepare yourself for combat!" – ordered Maya – "I will alarm everyone, but you will have to fight at last at first part of this battle without support, so please be careful."
Kensuke's battle against Devils (a few minutes later; at battlefield outside Tokyo-3/in NERV command office)
EVA-15 was launched just in time, to meet two Devils, just a minute before they reached Tokyo-3. Unlike most of other Devils, encountered by NERV, these two indeed resembled creatures, whose name they were given. The Black Devil looked as if it was in his home in Hell, under blood red sky. And as about Golden Devil, his golden skin had became blood red, under red rays of setting sun.
Back in NERV command office, Gendo and Ritsuko have already woke up, and currently were on their positions in NERV command office. Professor Fuyutsuki has also woke up, and currently was on his way to NERV command office. Makoto, Misato and Shigeru, who lived not in NERV headquarters, but in their private apartments in Tokyo-3 were woken up as well, and currently were on their way to NERV headquarters; Misato had Shinji at her side.
"Enemy sighted, Maya… I mean, enemy sighed, Lieutenant Ibuki" – said Kensuke through his comlink.
"Contact me with him" – ordered Gendo to Lieutenant Ibuki.
"Yes, Commander Ikari" – answered Maya obediently.
"Pilot Aida" – said Gendo to Kensuke through comlink – "With absence of both Major Katsuragi and Lieutenant Hyuga, I will command this operation directly. Remember, Pilot Aida, your primary objective not to try to kill these Devils, but to hold on, until reinforcement in form of Pilot Ikari on his EVA-01 will arrive. It is almost impossible for one Evangelion to defeat two Devils, so don't even try to kill them. However, your goal is to prevent these Devils from reaching Geofront, as well as avoiding serious combat. For the first part of this mission, you will be equipped with Advanced Targeting Computer, Empowered Heat Sink and Standard Palette Rifle. Your Advanced Palette Rifle was lost during your previous mission, so you will have to use less powerful Standard Palette Rifle for the first part of this mission. When Pilot Ikari will arrive to provide a cover for you, your Standard Palette Rifle will be replaced by Positron Sniper Rifle. While it is ineffective at close range, it is one of the few weapons, which were able to penetrate Angels' AT Fields, so we assumed, that Positron Sniper Rifle will be able to penetrate Devils' AT Fields as well. So, you will have to enlarge distance between yourself and Devils to use Positron Sniper Rifle in its full potential, However, I believe, that with help from the Advanced Targeting Computer, you will be able to use Positron Sniper Rifle quite effectively even at close range. However, as I have already mentioned, you will be equipped with Positron Sniper Rifle only when Pilot Ikari will provide you with cover. For Positron Sniper Rifle will reduce maneuverability of your Evangelion greatly, and because of it with Positron Sniper Rifle you will be unable to dodge Devils' attacks, and so this could be extremely dangerous. Do you understand your orders, Pilot Aida?"
"Yes, Commander Ikari" – answered Kensuke through comlink.
"Pilot Aida" – said Gendo through the comlink – "You are to proceed with your orders, after installation of all EVA-15's weapons and miscellaneous equipment will be completed. Wait for confirmation, Pilot Aida."
"Yes, Commander Ikari" – answered Kensuke through comlink.
"Lieutenant Ibuki" – said Gendo then – "Prepare to install EVA-15's weapons and miscellaneous equipment."
"Yes, Commander Ikari" – said Maya – "Installing EVA-15's weapons and miscellaneous equipment… Standard Palette Rifle, installation successful… Advanced Targeting Computer, installation successful… Empowered Heat Sink, installation successful. Commander Ikari, all EVA-15's weapons and miscellaneous equipment were installed successfully. EVA-15 is ready for battle!"
"Very well" – said Gendo, then Gendo said to Kensuke through the comlink – "Pilot Aida, all EVA-15's weapons and miscellaneous equipment were installed successfully. Proceed with your orders, Pilot Aida."
Just then, two Devils finally came to point blank range to EVA-15, and Kensuke started his attack. Kensuke fired burst of fire into the Black Devil, the first Devil who came into his firing range, who was designated as Fifth Devil on his computer screen. However, just as Kensuke expected, his fire didn't do any visible damage to Fifth Devil.
Then Fifth Devil charged at EVA-15, and Kensuke was forced to make his Evangelion jump back, to avoid contact with Fifth Devil's deadly claws. The Golden Devil, who was designated as Sixth Devil on Kensuke's computer screen, concentrated, and brilliant ray of light escaped his body, and fired directly at EVA-15.
"Kensuke, it is extremely powerful laser-like beam!" – screamed Maya through the comlink – "Avoid being hit, Kensuke!"
EVA-15 fall to the ground, barely avoiding being hit by Sixth Devil's ray of light. Then EVA-15 rolled away, barely avoiding contact with Fifth Devil, who jumped on EVA-15. Kensuke quickly raised his Evangelion on its feet and fired another burst of fire at Fifth Devil. And as it was before, Kensuke's fire didn't caused any visible damage to Fifth Devil.
"Commander Ikari!" – screamed Maya back at NERV command office – "Apparently EVA-15 can't penetrate Fifth Devil's AT Field! I don't know… Wait! I detect some kind of abnormality in Fifth Devil's AT Field! Fifth Devil's AT Field is not in stabile condition! Commander Ikari, power of Fifth Devil's AT Field is increasing with each second! He is growing more and more powerful, Commander Ikari! Commander Ikari, what shall we do?!"
EVA-15 jumped back once again, avoiding both Fifth Devil's claws and Sixth Devil's ray of light once again. However, in next moment, some kind of black wave of energy came from Fifth Devil, and struck unprepared EVA-15 right into torso, sending EVA-15 flying about fifty meters backwards and then crushing EVA-15 into the ground.
"Contact me with United Forces headquarters" – gloomy ordered Gendo to Maya back at NERV command office – "I wanted to avoid it, but apparently we will need their aid once again. Otherwise Kensuke wouldn't be able to hold these Devils until Pilot Ikari will arrive."
"Yes, Commander Ikari" – said Maya.
"Hello, is it General Schwartz?" – said Gendo through the comlink, after communication with United Forces headquarters was established.
"Yes. Good evening, Commander Ikari."
"Good evening, General Schwartz. Although I fear, that this evening isn't very good for us. You see, we have a little problem with new enemies near Tokyo-3. So we expect you to sent your forces to aid us here, as soon as possible, as it was agreed."
"There is no need for worry, Commander Ikari, for we remember well all our agreements. While we can't dispatch massive military forces against these enemies at current moment, we can dispatch one extremely curious vehicle against these enemies, which, I think, will prove more effective against these enemies, the your Evangelions."
"You are not speaking about nuclear-powered robots again, I hope."
"Exactly about them. But if you still fear for radiation, then we won't sent our vehicle to battlefield against your wishes. It is your battle after all, and perhaps you know better how to win it…"
"Very well, sent it. I just hope, that it won't go out of control, as it happened during one of your showdowns."
"Commander Ikari, I want to inform you, that unlike your mad Evangelions, our robots now completely unable to act for themselves without pilot's guidance. So, it will not go berserker, or went out of control. You can trust me in that matter."
"I hope so. Well, goodbye, General Schwartz. Sent your robot here as soon as possible."
"Goodbye, Commander Ikari."
Preparing for launch (at next moment; at United Forces outpost near Tokyo-3)
James set in cockpit of his Advanced Robotic Leader and impatiently watched the battle between White Evangelion and two its enemies at one of his computer screens. Advanced Robotic Leader was connected with all United Forces visual cameras and radars, and so James could observe battle between White Evangelion and two its enemies without any problems. Oh, how he wanted to join this battle and finally prove himself as finest soldier in United Forces, but James knew, that if he will do it without orders, he would be kicked out, no matter how good he was.
'Incoming orders from United Forces headquarters' – informed him his computer – 'Please wait a few moments.'
Then face of one of United Forces generals – General Schwartz appeared on one of James' computers screen, and James instantly saluted.
"Lieutenant James" – said General Schwartz – "You are ordered to launch your Advanced Robotic Leader and help White Evangelion to defeat its enemies. Once at the battlefield, you will have complete freedom of action. Just remember, destroying your enemies if your highest priority. And be ready to for anything. Understood, Lieutenant James?"
"Understood, General Schwartz" – answered James obediently.
"Then proceed with your orders, Lieutenant James" – said General Schwartz and cut down communication.
"Alright" – said James – "Computer, check all systems and prepare Advanced Robotic Leader for launch."
'Checking all systems, please wait… all systems function normally. Preparing Advanced Robotic Leader for launch, please wait… Advanced Robotic Leader is prepared for launch. Advanced Robotic Leader will be launched at your command.'
"Launch!" – ordered James, and instantly hatchway above Advanced Robotic Leader opened, and Advanced Robotic Leader was launched to the surface.
James' battle against Devils (at next moment; at battlefield outside Tokyo-3/in NERV command office)
Once at surface, James activated Advanced Robotic Leader's engines in maximum power, and hurried toward the battlefield.
"Okay, sons of the bitches" – muttered James to himself – "Let see, what you can do against the best United Forces soldier! I'll show everyone, that I am better then these kids in their toy-robots!"
As James reached battlefield, he saw, that situation was bad indeed for a kid in White Evangelion at last, just as James has suspected. Black Giant was pushing White Evangelion toward the Tokyo-3, where buildings would restrict Evangelion's maneuverability, and where Black Giant would be able to finish White Evangelion. Meanwhile, Golden Giant searched for position, for where he could hit White Evangelion with his ray of light, without harming Black Giant.
James didn't waited to see, what will happen first: whatever White Evangelion would be torn apart by Black Giant's claws and horns, or whatever Golden Giant will finally manage to hit White Evangelion with his ray of light. James instantly stared to act.
Golden Giant was too busy, trying to hit White Evangelion with his ray of light, so it didn't noticed its new enemy, until it was a bit late. Advanced Robotic Leader jumped at Golden Giant from cover, with both its deadly wrist blades already extracted and ready for combat. However, to James great surprise, Advance Robotic Leader's deadly wrist blades, which should have cut unsuspicious Golden Giant apart, merely slide off some kind of invisible force barrier, which apparently surrounded Golden Giant.
Despite his surprise, James managed to jump back quickly, and one of Golden Giant's elbow blades passed through the air in the spot occupied by Advanced Robotic Leader just a moment ago.
"You are tricky bastard, aren't you?" – asked James his opponent – "Well, I will deal with you all the same!"
Suddenly ray of light fired from Golden Giant, but James, who have already seen Golden Giant in battle expected this. James quickly moved his Advanced Robotic Leader aside, easily avoiding being hit. Golden Giant fired another ray of light at Advanced Robotic Leader, then another, and another… But all these times, James managed to dodge Golden Giant's rays of light easily.
"Aren't I a bit too fast for you, bastard?" – asked James his opponent mockingly – "Well, I am sorry to tell you, but the game is over now. Eat this, son of a bitch!"
Suddenly two rifles, very much like Advanced Palette Rifle wielded by Kensuke in his previous battle, extracted from Advanced Robotic Leader's sides. James quickly grabbed the rifles, and began to shot burst of fire after burst of fire at Golden Giant, avoiding Golden Giant's rays of light at same time. However, no matter how many shots James fired at Golden Giant; all James' shots were striking invisible protective barrier, which surrounded Golden Giant, and harmlessly dissipated.
"What the fuck is going on?!" – though James with mixture of terror and anger – "What is this fucking thing?! Is it invulnerable, or what?!"
But despite all these, James kept firing burst of fire after burst of fire at Golden Giant, until his Advanced Palette Rifles finally produced loud clicking sound, indicating, that they were out of ammo.
'Advanced Palette Rifles are out of ammo' – informed him his computer helpfully.
"I know this shit!" – answered James angrily – "Well, I am not done yet!"
James dropped his now useless Advanced Palette Rifles, and in the next moment, large missile launcher system extended from behind Advanced Robotic Leader's back.
"Commander Ikari!" – cried Maya back in NERV command office – "United Forces Robot is armed with N2 Missile Launcher! They are going to try to destroy Sixth Devil with massive N2 Missiles strike!"
"Don't worry, Lieutenant Ibuki" – said Gendo coldly – "They are on the outskirts of the Tokyo-3, so they wouldn't cause to much damage to the city."
"If you say so, Commander Ikari" – muttered Maya uncertainly.
Meanwhile, at the battlefield…
"Eat this, son of a bitch!" – cried James, releasing array of N2 Missiles at Golden Giant.
Instantly, huge explosion engulfed Golden Giant, it seemed, that nothing, not even Devil could survive in there…
"Damned United Forces!" – swore Misato, who almost reached entrance to the NERV Headquarters – "It seems, that they are having fun with their N2 devices once again! I wouldn't mind it, but only if their N2 devices would have any effect…"
"Ha ha ha!" – laughed James in cockpit of his Advanced Robotic Leader – "It was a bit too much for Mr. Invulnerable Fucking Bastard, wasn't it?!"
Flames roared in the spot, which was occupied by Golden Giant just a few moments ago; and even thou James couldn't see anything, he was certain in his victory.
"Okay" – said James to himself – "Now it is another one's turn! How fortunate I am, that I have enough N2 Missiles for whole army of these fucking bastards!"
But in the next moment, ray of light fired from the spot, which was currently occupied by the roaring flames. And this ray of light caught James completely unprepared, for James has already started to turn his Advanced Robotic Leader in the direction of the Black Giant. And so, this ray of light neatly separated Advanced Robotic Leader's head from its shoulders.
James screamed in pain, for he felt, as ray of light separated his head from his shoulders… Blood flown like a river from James' severed neck…
"No! Stop it!" – screamed James in pain – "Computer, sever the fucking… ARGHHH!!!"
Golden Giant stepped out of the roaring flames. He wasn't completely unharmed, for apparently array of N2 Missiles was indeed a bit too much for Golden Giant's AT Field, but he wasn't much damaged either. And then, Golden Giant fired another ray of light at Advanced Robotic Leader, this time separating Advanced Robotic Leader's right hand from its shoulder.
And once again, James screamed in pain, for while his neuro-control was still operating, he felt all Advanced Robotic Leader's injuries, as if they were his own. James knew, that he had to sever neuro-control as soon as possible, and activate handle control, for otherwise he would risk falling out of cold from pain.
"Comp…" – muttered James, trying to overcome his pain – "I… order… to… ARGHHH!!!"
Golden Giant fired another ray of light at Advanced Robotic Leader, this time separating Advanced Robotic Leader's left hand from its shoulder. Apparently, Golden Giant enjoyed torturing his now defenseless opponent.
Once again, James felt Advanced Robotic Leader's pain, and once again, he tried his best to overcome it.
"Com…" – muttered James, gathering last remnants of his strength – "I… kh… der… to shft… Ad… to hand… contr… l…"
'Your command is incomprehensible' – informed him computer in emotionless voice – 'Lieutenant James, please repeat you command.'
"Fuck you!.." – muttered James as he slowly drifted into oblivion…
Between the battles (at next moment; in NERV command office)
"The United Forces Robot isn't showing any activity" – said Maya back in NERV command office – "Commander Ikari, apparently United Forces Robot is disabled and deactivated."
"Well, it served its role, for it has distracted Sixth Devil for long enough for us to proceed to the second part of our plan" – smirked Gendo in response – "After this battle will be over, we will send rescue party to the United Forces Robot, of course, if there is anything or anybody left to be rescued in there."
"How pathetic!" – said Ritsuko with disgust, quite surprising Maya – "How these fools from United Forces could even hope to penetrate AT Field, when they aren't willing to understand, what AT Field is?!"
"Um… Doctor Akagi?" – was all, what Maya could say.
"Never mind, Maya" – said Ritsuko smiling – "I was just thinking aloud."
"Doctor Akagi, I… " – started Maya, but then incoming call interrupted her, before she have got a chance to finish her sentence.
"Commander Ikari" – said Maya – "We are receiving call from Major Katsuragi."
"Contact me with her at once!" – ordered Gendo hastily.
"Commander Ikari" – said Misato to Gendo through the comlink once communication was established – "I and Shinji have arrived. Shinji is on his way to Evangelion hangar, and I am on my way to command office. Please, can you inform me about current situation."
"Lieutenant Ibuki, you are the one, who watch battlefield" – said Gendo – "Inform Major Katsuragi about current situation."
"At once, Commander Ikari" – said Maya, then spoke to Misato through the comlink – "Major Katsuragi, robot, which United Forces sent to aid us has lost battle against Devil and is currently in deactivated condition. However, Kensuke is still holding his ground, despite the fact, that he is fighting against two devils at same time once again. Please hurry! Kensuke performs wonderfully, but these Devils are quite powerful, especially Fifth Devil, who seem to be gaining more and more power with each passing second. And so, I don't know for how long Kensuke would be able to hold his ground against two these Devils in same time. Please hurry!"
"I'll be here in about a minute!" – said Misato hastily, and cut off the communication.
In about a minute Misato has indeed arrived to the NERV command center, and quickly took her sit.
"Alright, Shinji" – said Misato through the comlink – "Have you already taken your place in the Entry Plug?"
"Yes, Major Katsuragi" – answered Shinji through the comlink.
"Lieutenant Ibuki, prepare EVA-01 for launch immediately" – ordered Misato.
"At once, Major Katsuragi" – answered Maya – "All is ready to inject EVA-01's Entry Plug. Inject EVA-01's Entry Plug. EVA-01's Entry Plug was injected successfully. Adjust all neuro-links. All neuro-links were adjusted successfully. Initiate one final system checks. Checking in process, please wait, Major Katsuragi. All systems function normally. EVA-01 is activated and ready for launch."
"What is his synchronization rate?" – asked Misato with concern in her voice.
"Shinji's synchronization rate is 31,5 percent!" – said Maya happily – "It is much better, then on the previous synchronization test. I can only wonder, why his synchronization raises and falls so suddenly and so quickly. Currently Shinji's synchronization is keep raising, even if a bit slowly."
"What about Kensuke's synchronization rate" – asked Misato – "After all, it is Kensuke who is supposed to penetrate Devils' AT Field."
"Kensuke's synchronization rate is 59,5 percent, and currently stabile." – answered Maya – "Much like Rei, Kensuke has very stabile synchronization rate during the battle, I can only wonder why. However, unlike Rei's synchronization, Kensuke's synchronization improves greatly between battles, even if not as greatly, as Shinji and Asuka's synchronization rates used to improve. I believe, that with his current synchronization rate Kensuke will be able to use Positron Sniper Rifle at its full potential, and that he will be able to penetrate Devils' AT Fields and kill then."
"Very well then" – said Misato – "Lieutenant Ibuki, launch EVA-01 immediately. And be prepared to arm EVA-15 with Positron Sniper Rifle in any moment."
"At once, Major Katsuragi" – said Maya – "Evangelion unit one, launch!"
Shinji's battle against Devils (at next moment; at battlefield outside Tokyo-3/in NERV command office)
Meanwhile at the battlefield, Kensuke was having a bit of a trouble. After some kind of giant robot came to aid him, Kensuke was able to fight off Fifth Devil along without too much trouble. However, now when this giant robot fall, without its head and both arms, Sixth Devil turned his attention to Kensuke once again. And by all appearance, Sixth Devil was going to be the last straw, which was going to break camel's back. For while Kensuke could fight off one Devil at time, his odds for survival were overwhelming small with both Fifth Devil and Sixth Devil fighting against him together.
But in the next moment another Evangelion joined the battle against Devils. Shinji made his Evangelion to charge at Fifth Devil, who pressed his attack on EVA-15. However, before EVA-01 reached its target, Sixth Devil jumped at EVA-01's way. Two swings of elbow blades, and EVA-01 fall back with two large cuts along its torso. Shinji screamed in pain.
"Hold on!" – said Misato to Shinji through the comlink – "You must hold on, Shinji! Kensuke's life depends upon you! All our lives depend upon you!"
"I shouldn't run away… I shouldn't run away…" – kept saying Shinji to himself, as he continued his fight.
Once again Sixth Devil made swings with his elbow blades, but this time EVA-01 avoided being hit by stepping backwards. Large cuts at EVA-01's torso started to reduce visibly.
"EVA-01's damages are regenerating" – said Maya back at NERV command office – "However, Shinji's synchronization rate has fallen to 30,7 percent and currently stabile.
"But you said, that Shinji's synchronization rate was rising, even if a bit slowly, didn't you?" – asked Misato with hint of concern in her voice back at NERV command office – "Then how did it happened, that Shinji's synchronization rate fall?"
"As you may notice, Shinji has most unstable synchronization rate among all Evangelion pilots." – answered Ritsuko instead of Maya – "And so, his synchronization rate keep shifting from as low as less then twenty percent, to almost unreachable four hundred percent. Unfortunately, we can't control these synchronization rate changes right now, but if we will learn to control them, we will have ultimate weapon in our sleeve, especially now, when EVA-01 has S2 Engine. So, don't worry about your charge, Misato, he will do it just fine."
But back at the battlefield, Shinji wasn't so certain about that.
"I shouldn't run away… I shouldn't run away…" – kept saying Shinji to himself, as he kept dodging swings of Sixth Devil's elbow blades – "But why? Why I shouldn't run away, if my only other option is to pilot Evangelion, fight and kill? Is it what I really want? To pilot Evangelion, fight and kill? What do I really want?"
"Seek answer within your heart, Shinji"
"Ayanami… Rei?.." – asked Shinji aloud – "Mother?.."
But silence was Shinji's only answer.
"I know it!" – said Shinji to himself – "I don't want to pilot Evangelion, fight and kill. But nevertheless, I will pilot Evangelion, fight and kill to save humanity."
"But how can you save humanity from humanity itself?"
"I can't save humanity from humanity itself" – said Shinji to himself – "However, I can save humanity from monsters like Angels and Devils. And to save humanity from these monsters, I will fight until the bitter end!"
"Shinji's synchronization rate is quickly rising!" – said Maya back at NERV command office – "Unexpectedly high rise of synchronization rate! Shinji's synchronization rate reached 80,7 percent and keep rising!"
"Unbelievable!" – muttered surprised Ritsuko back at NERV command office – "No matter how many times it happens, I still can't believe it!"
"Lieutenant Ibuki, report about status of Devils' AT Fields." – said Misato back at NERV command office – "Are Devils' AT Fields still operating."
"Negative, Major Katsuragi" – said Maya back at NERV command office – "AT Fields of both Devils' were suppressed by combined power of Shinji and Kensuke's AT Fields. Both Fifth Devil and Sixth Devil are currently vulnerable."
"Okay, Shinji, Kensuke" – said Misato to Shinji and Kensuke through the comlink – "The plan has changed. We will not use Positron Sniper Rifle. Instead, you are to engage Fifth Devil and Sixth Devil into all-or-nothing melee combat. Apparently these Devils are faster then your Evangelions, but apparently your Evangelions are still more powerful then these Devils. Without their AT Fields to protect them, these Devils are vulnerable. It is the best chance to deal with them! Good luck!"
EVA-01 immediately burst into action, assaulting Sixth Devil with a flurry of blows. Sixth Devil couldn't oppose EVA-01's furious assault, for its power was already waning.
"Brother, I can't hold my ground much longer" – sent Sixth Devil his thoughts to Fifth Devil.
"Let both of these Evangelions be damned!" – sent Fifth Devil his thoughts to Sixth Devil – "I will open the escape route, brother! Follow me!"
After that Fifth Devil pressed his assault on EVA-15. As before, Kensuke easily avoided Fifth Devil's claws, but this time Fifth Devil had a surprise for Kensuke. Instead of recovering from swinging his claws, Fifth Devil lunged forward, striking EVA-15 with its deadly horns and throwing EVA-15 to the ground. Before Kensuke could raise EVA-15 to its feet, Fifth Devil kicked EVA-15 hard into torso, sending EVA-15 flying about twenty meters away.
Meanwhile, Sixth Devil surprised Shinji with unexpected swing of its knee blade. Shinji barely avoided swing of Sixth Devil's knee blade by moving his Evangelion backward and drawing his Progressive Knife. Then with Progressive Knife in his right hand, Shinji prepared himself for further assault, but none followed. Instead Sixth Devil turned around and ran for it.
"Not so fast!" – cried Shinji, as he sent his Evangelion into pursuit.
However in the next moment black figure of Fifth Devil appeared in EVA-01's way, and before Shinji could reacted, his Evangelion was thrown backward by the powerful flurry of blows of Fifth Devil. Kensuke finally raised his Evangelion to its feet, and wanted to run to help Shinji, but was interrupted by sound of Misato's voice.
"Kensuke" – said Misato to Kensuke through the comlink – "Don't engage enemy into melee combat. We will install Positron Sniper Rifle to your Evangelion immediately. Your order is to shot down fleeing enemies. We can't allow Devils escape our grasp now, when we almost got them. Understood, Kensuke?"
"Understood, Misato" – said Kensuke through the comlink – "Install Positron Sniper Rifle, I am ready."
In a matter of a few seconds, large metal block extended from the ground and opened, revealing large Positron Sniper Rifle. EVA-15 moved to the block, and reached for Positron Sniper Rifle. As EVA-15 took Positron Sniper Rifle, it was instantly connected to EVA-15 main computer, as well as to EVA-15's Advanced Targeting Computer.
Meanwhile, Fifth Devil broke into run as well, for apparently it wasn't willing to fight with two Evangelions at same time. Shinji raised his Evangelion on its feet, but he was too far behind Fifth Devil to catch up with Fifth Devil. And both Fifth Devil and Sixth Devil were much faster then Evangelions, and apparently their speed was increasing with each passing moment.
"Come on, come on…" – muttered Kensuke was sight in form of triangle was coming closer and closer to the shape of the fleeing Fifth Devil, who was running last, and finally came in contact with it.
'Target locked. Ready to fire.' – informed him his Evangelion's computer helpfully.
"Got it!" – muttered Kensuke triumphally.
But in a moment before Kensuke pushed the trigger, shapes of both Fifth Devil and Sixth Devil were gone.
"What?!" – said Kensuke in astonishment – "What the hell has happened?!"
'Target is lost' – informed him his Evangelion's computer helpfully.
Back at NERV command office, personal was also troubled with the same question as Kensuke was.
"What the hell has happened?!" – shouted Misato losing her temper – "We almost got them! How did it happened, that they run away?!"
"I have date, but it don't make any sense" – said Maya.
"Let me look, Maya" – said Ritsuko, and replaced Maya in her chair.
Ritsuko looked at the information for about a minute then rose from Maya's chair.
"Yes, it must be it" – said Ritsuko surely – "Without doubt, Fifth Devil and Sixth Devil were somehow able accelerate to the speed of light. I know, it sounds almost impossible, but that must be it."
"Do you know where they are now?" – asked Misato.
"Hell, how could I know?!" – asked Ritsuko back – "Speed of light is about 300000 kilometers per second! They could be almost everywhere now, perhaps not even on Earth! Anyway, our scanners can't find them, and I doubt, that our scanners will find them, until they will decide to attack us again."
"Alright" – said Misato aloud, then said to Shinji and Kensuke through the comlink – "Shinji, Kensuke, this battle is over. Return to the hangar."
Aftermath of the battle against Devils (morning of the next day/in SEELE council room)
"You did well, defeating Fifth Devil and Sixth Devil, Ikari" – said SEELE-01 – "However, the fact that both Fifth Devil and Sixth Devil were able to get away disturb me. We must kill Devils, not just chase them away. For without all the Devils dead, it could be too dangerous to initiate Human Complement Project."
"We are doing our best, but with limited resources we can't do much" – said Gendo – "As much as I remember, you promised to deliver to us more Evangelions. Where are they, I wonder?"
"Don't worry, one of these Evangelions is almost ready to be delivered to you" – said SELEE-01 – "This new Evangelion is currently passing synchronization tests with its pilot, and both Evangelion and its pilot would be delivered to you as soon as all tests would be completed."
"Another pilot?" – asked Gendo – "But why? Rei still don't have Evangelion to pilot."
"Personally, I have lost my faith in Rei recently" – said SEELE-01 – "As your reports claim, her synchronization rate is generally very low, even if it is stabile. She managed to loss one of our finest Evangelions in her first battle against Devils. No, we need people with more talent then Rei to pilot these new Evangelions. EVA-16's currently pilot is very talented, and even thou she hadn't any combat training before we chose her as Evangelion pilot, she still has promise to become pilot extraordinaire. Perhaps she will be even better pilot then your son Shinji, who knows. In any case, her synchronization score is growing up daily, and it is rather foolish to dismiss such a pilot only because you want to give your Rei a third chance. Isn't it, Ikari?"
"If you say so" – said Gendo – "I just hope, that you are not sending us another "Kaoru". It was rather unpleasant experience, and I hope, that it won't happen again."
"Don't worry, Ikari" – said SEELE-01 – "She is human, not Angel or Devil. Nobody who looked at her could even consider possibility that she was Angel or Devil. Such beauty, such purity… Oh, I guess, I forgot myself. Anyway, as I have already told you, both Evangelion and its pilot would be delivered to you in a matter of a few days. You are dismissed now, Ikari."
The final test (Afternoon of the same day, in Canada branch of NERV in Vancouver)
Two technicians: junior technician and senior technician look into data they have just received with surprise. Both of them worked on Evangelion Project for quite some years, and both of them thought, that now nothing could possibly surprise them. And of course, both of them were wrong.
"This data is correct, isn't it?" – asked senior technician.
"Yes, boss" – said junior technician – "We receive positive answer from all three Magi. This data is correct."
"Unbelievable" – muttered senior technician – "Synchronization rate is 99,9%! Everything beyond 99,9% is beyond ability of any normal human! And yet, she reached normal human's limits, even thou it is only her third synchronization test! Unbelievable! She must be indeed pilot extraordinaire to archive this!"
"Yeah, she is very beautiful too" – said junior technician wistfully – "Oh, how I wish…"
"Quit daydreaming, young man!" – said senior technician teasingly – "You have no more chances with beauty like her then I do!"
"You probably right" – said junior technician still wistfully.
"Young man" – commented senior technician – "Ah, how I would like to be young again!"
"Really?" – asked junior technician teasingly – "Would you really trade all these years of experience for youth? I always thought that you was a different kind of man, boss."
"Now, when you put it like that" – said senior technician smiling – "Nah! I would prefer to remain as I am today. After all, youth is only passing, while experience is eternal."
"Now this is more like old dull you, boss!" – said junior technician smiling.
"Alright, Pilot Avion" – said senior technician
trough the comlink – "Today's synchronization test is over. Please wait, until
we will eject EVA-16's Entry Plug, and then…"
But before senior technician could finish his sentence, EVA-16's cockpit
opened, and beautiful red-haired girl jumped to the terrace to two technicians,
easily landing of her feet.
"Hay, you shouldn't have done that" – said junior technician with worry in his voice – "If you would miss the terrace…"
"Don't worry" – said beautiful red-haired girl winking – "I wasn't chosen to be Evangelion pilot without reason, was it?"
"Well, no, but still…" – started junior technician.
"Alright you two, enough of this" – said senior technician trying to look sternly – "Congratulations, Pilot Avion!"
"Congratulations?" – asked beautiful red-haired girl – Pilot Avion.
"Yes" – said senior technician – "Your synchronization rate was astonishing today. Today, your synchronization rate reached 99,9%! And it is limit for any normal human. Without doubt, piloting Evangelion is in your very blood. Who knows, perhaps after some time, you will be able even to overcome this limit."
"I will try my best, sir" – smiled Pilot Avion.
"Oh, and another thing" – said senior technician – "You are transferred to the Japan branch of NERV in the Tokyo-3. With intensity of attacks of some kind of mysterious creatures know only as Devils at Tokyo-3 they will need you and your Evangelion there."
"But what about you?" – asked Pilot Avion – "If I will go to Tokyo-3, then Canada branch of NERV will be defenseless against Devils, won't it?"
"Don't worry" – said senior technician – "They are sending three Dummy Plug Evangelions here to protect us. It will be more then enough to keep us safe."
"Well, alright then" – said Pilot Avion – "But still, I will miss you, guys"
"We will miss you too, Pilot Avion" – said senior technician.
"Yeah" – said junior technician blushing.
"Ok, see you around" – said Pilot Avion.
Then Pilot Avion blown kiss to technicians and walked toward the exit.
"So, it has begun" – thought Pilot Avion sadly – "Denis, am I doing the right thing?"