The battle in the last one was a bit rushed, but that was because I was
getting tired when I wrote it. And now onto more political mayhem!
Every once in a while I always feel the urge to answer some things my reviewers leave me, so here it goes.
No, I do not plan on having Mana and Shinji hook up again, and that's not giving away anything since I have other plans for her. I'd get crucified if I tried that at this stage of the story.
Dany, in order to come back from the dead you have to be dead in the first place. Kaji did not die, Shinji simply inverted his AT-Field and escaped into a 'pocket dimension,' and so far that's about it. You don't see any of Shinji's teammates around, do you? Oh, and what's wrong with Rachel going shopping? *evil grin*
Adaptation
Scenario 8: Multiply
"Well I'll be damned," Toji muttered, "Are these accurate?"
"It was your equipment we used to take them," Shinji told his friend, "We're pretty sure it was Kensuke."
"So he led the attack on the transport. What about the connections with that organization, what was it, the Alliance?"
"Not much turned up," said Shinji, "The Alliance is very good at hiding its assets and they're at least as effective as Seele."
"So that means there's another organization trying to put some strings on NERV," Asuka said in an annoyed tone.
"Of course," said Toji, "The question is, can we find them and stop them?"
"That would depend on the security organs," Rei stated, "I believe that is your department, Toji."
"Yeah, yeah. What about the US? What's the use of having them as an ally if they can't help us?"
"Be careful of what you say," Shinji warned, "and as to the US, they aren't turning up anything apparently. However, the Chinese Ministry of State Security has passed along a very useful piece of information to us. I think the CIA had a conniption fit when they read it."
Shinji handed each of them one of the folders he had brought. Inside was an intelligence report that the MSS had given the US since it didn't want to go through the UN.
"Now this is interesting," said Toji, "Why can't we act on this?"
"It isn't enough," said Shinji, "Besides, the US doesn't want to risk setting off an international incident. Also, Japan, Spain, Italy, and Russia are complaining that the US has too much control over NERV as both me and Asuka are technically American citizens."
"Asuka?" Toji said, taken by surprise.
"I was born in the States," Asuka informed them, "I was never a German citizen. I just lived there."
"So how is this different from when your father and Professor Fuyutsuki were in charge? They were both Japanese citizens."
"Except neither of them were in the military," Shinji pointed out, "I am officially a lieutenant general of the United States Special Forces, and that means I'll pay more attention to the US government than to the UN."
"Oh. Hadn't thought if it that way."
"How is the US responding to this?" Rei asked.
"They've pointed out that nearly everyone else on the command staff is Japanese, and that there are still inspectors from several Security Council members inside NERV."
"There is?" Asuka said.
"Of course," said Toji, "They are just here to make sure we don't build another EVA, though the suit has been approved by the UN."
"Which pissed the hell out of the Japanese government," Shinji added, "Right now NERV is caught within another political battle. However, their biggest problem now is that me and Rei are the only ones that can take on an Angel and win without assistance, and if I resign then the entire NERV command structure might fall apart."
"If you resign, then I'm coming with you," said Asuka, "That would probably seriously hurt NERV's capabilities."
"And also allow the US to operate an Angel-fighting force independent of the UN," Toji observed, "A very good plan."
Shinji relaxed and let the chair rotate a little. His friends had quickly seen the US' secondary plan just in case the UN decided to crack down. Unknown to them however, was that the UN could not attempt a crackdown. China was fully with the US on this one, as was Britain, and three vetoes of a Security Council resolution would seriously damage whoever tried to vote in favor of it. Russia was out of luck. Germany had so far stayed out of these little disputes, and for good reason. Its government had been ordered to not attempt anything and simply abstain from voting on such issues.
"Shinji, what if the UN attempts a forceful takeover?" Rei asked.
"They're going to get their asses kicked," Shinji replied confidently, "The UN isn't the only government that has a N2 arsenal."
"But that's technically illegal," said Asuka.
"Technically. That's illegal only if the US is part of the UN. But if the UN doesn't know about it, then the US won't have any trouble."
"An interesting point," said Rei, "What if the UN does find out?"
"World War III if the UN tries to interfere with the US' internal affairs," Shinji said bluntly, "Once the UN actually realizes how serious the US is, they won't risk getting themselves destroyed."
"That's a very risky gambit," Rei noted.
"We'll see."
Shinji left the room to let the others discuss the implications of the report. It actually was a great pity NERV couldn't act on the information the MSS had provided them. That was just the way things were.
Shinji returned to his office to find that another briefcase had been delivered. When he opened it, his heart nearly skipped a beat.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"What went wrong?" Kaji asked.
"The US forces were a lot more prepared than we thought," Kensuke reported, "They deployed some of their new elite troopers and we couldn't beat them."
He winced again as the doctor applied something to his leg. The bullet had been removed and it had hurt like hell, and the morphine still hadn't taken full effect yet.
"This is not good," said Kaji, "If NERV possesses the Dead Sea Scrolls, that means they again have the ability to destroy humanity."
"We all know that," said Kensuke, "but the UN is basically powerless in that area. The US is keeping a tight rein on NERV and won't let the UN interfere. The Japanese government has already filed several complaints but the answer from the Security Council is that NERV will not accede to their demands."
"What else is new?" Kaji asked him, "But the point is that the UN is now unable to stop NERV. That means we have to approach the Japanese government."
"Will the Alliance go for that?"
"If it means keeping NERV from ending the world, probably."
"You said probably," Kensuke noted.
"I can't predict on how they'll react, but the SSDF may be the only organization that has the weapons to defeat NERV."
"The Tridents."
Kaji nodded. It was certainly true enough. If they had the Tridents, the US regular army would have great difficulty defeating them. The only problem was getting the Japanese government to help them.
"I'll talk to some of my contacts and see what I can do," Kaji said, "For now, get some rest. Oh, I got another call from your girlfriend. Be sure to call her back."
"Of course."
"Did I ever tell you you're a hell lot luckier than me?"
"More than once," Kensuke replied, agreeing completely.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Rachel had been given a NERV uniform to wear for the duration and had just changed into it when Rei entered.
"Greetings Mother," she said with a smile.
"Hello Daughter. I assume you are growing accustomed to living among the lillium?"
"As much as our kind can. Tell me Mother, what should I be doing?"
"I thought you only took orders from Shinji," Rei said with one eyebrow raised.
"I do, but I would also like your advice, Mother."
"You may address me by my human name," Rei said to the Angel, "For now, simply live."
The Angel smiled. "Of course. What is my purpose here, or has General Ikari not told you?"
"Walk with me, Rachel."
The Angel got up from the chair and followed alongside Rei as she walked out of the room. The two women were silent at first, the only sound the thumping of their shoes. Finally they entered one of the main labs where Yui and Kyoko were working.
"Hello Rei," Yui greeted her adopted daughter, "Hello, Rachel."
The greeting towards the Angel was a bit more reserved. It wasn't because Yui was afraid of the creature, but more like she was unsure of it.
"Dr. Ikari, Dr. Soryu."
The Angel wasn't sure what to make of the women either. She knew that Rei regarded Dr. Ikari as her mother, so what did that make the human to herself? And it seemed rather odd. Lilith was the mother of humanity, and yet she considered such a lillium to be her own mother. The humans had certainly turned Lilith strange. Or was it something else?
"Mother, I would like to test out the suit providing it is ready," Rei said to Yui.
"Okay. But be careful, we're not completely sure about this thing."
Yui pressed a button and the suit opened up. Rachel watched as Rei got into it and was locked in. The thing hummed and activated.
"How is it working?" Yui asked.
"I am not sure yet."
Rei stepped off the platform walked in the suit and raised an arm. She looked down at it and nodded. Then an AT-Field manifested physically. Yui, Kyoko, and the staff jumped slightly at the sight of it but quickly started taking readings.
"That's an extremely strong AT-Field," Yui noted, "What was your sync rate?"
"My sync rate has nothing to do with the AT-Field," Rei said, "though this suit is certainly amplifying it. I nearly cut through the floor and ceiling."
"That's right," said Yui, "You're an Angel too. Well, I assume it works?"
"Asuka will have to be tested on it too," said Kyoko, "Rei can produce an AT-Field without help, but she does say it amplifies it. That's one step closer."
"Good," said Yui, "Where is Asuka?"
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Asuka was currently conducting some tests with the new arrivals and Hikari. They were taking a sync test in the simulated entry plugs. The only one that seemed to be uncomfortable in this situation was the woman from Great Britain. Her name was Crystal Whitney and she looked like she would barf.
"Don't worry about it Ms Whitney," Asuka said over the comm., "I've done this many times before and there has been no problems. Now please focus. We need to get an accurate reading."
Crystal sighed and closed her eyes again. She did her best to concentrate and felt something fuzzy inside her head. It might have been something to do with the synchronization.
Asuka looked down at the monitors and examined the scores. Hikari had a sync rate of 12%, very good for a first timer. It was rather surprising that she hadn't been tested during the period when Misato controlled NERV. She probably never considered it.
The candidate from France, a young man named Leon Jacquard, had a sync rate of 3% right now. That was actually the lowest but it was still something. Asuka had already seen the brown-haired man try to hit on some of the other NERV members. So far, only Crystal had reacted to his advances.
Grace Jost currently had a sync rate of 6%, which was actually pretty good. The young woman had short brown hair and her blue eyes were closed as she concentrated. Asuka looked closer and realized that her face didn't show much strain.
Asuka turned her attention back to Crystal. The British woman's sync rate was holding steady at 7%. It would take a while for them to get it higher, but for now all they could do was run some tests and try to get the suit working.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
There was a considerable amount of political maneuvering on the hand of the Japanese. However, every one of them was shot down by the combined efforts of Great Britain, China, and the United States. Karina Gunther, the German Secretary General, was handling the second major crisis during her time in office. The US had rejected the Japanese resolution, but Karina was seeing things more with the Japanese. If there weren't more restraints on the US and NERV, either could run out of control.
"The US government is overstepping its boundaries in this," Karina warned, "I personally believe that the Japanese government deserves to be allowed to station units within NERV to ensure that it does not get out of control again."
"And launch another massacre?" Jacob Larson questioned, "I think not. If the UN feels the need to allow Japanese soldiers inside NERV, the US will withdraw all support from NERV and recall all of the equipment and personnel we have placed there. That includes Lieutenant General Shinji Ikari and the suit."
"That suit is exclusively NERV property!" Hikowa shouted, "The US has no rights over it!"
"The suit was retrieved by American personnel, some of whom died to get it, and General Ikari," Larson shot back, "If the UN is unwilling to keep killers out of NERV, the US will work around the UN in our effort to destroy the Angel threat."
That caused a silence to fall throughout the chamber. What the US ambassador was threatening would undermine the UN's power structure and overall strength.
"Mr. Larson, consider carefully what you are saying," Karina said.
"I agree," said Chekov, "That is a direct challenge to the United Nations itself."
"How is that any different from what your government did?" Larson replied, "However, that is not the issue at hand. We will discuss the UN's jurisdiction at another time. The position of the United States government is unchanged. Either keep the Japanese soldiers off of NERV, or we will pull out. As you are well aware of, a large portion of NERV officers will most likely resign as well. That includes most of the advanced humans that can generate AT-Fields. Who will teach the other recruits? It is your mistake to make."
The tension was so high that no one even blinked. Karina finally cleared her throat and spoke.
"The United Nations will not forget this," she said, "However, in the interest of survival of humanity, the JSSDF is to leave NERV alone and not attempt to insert soldiers into the base."
"If that is the case the Japanese government wishes to inform the United Nations that we will be removing the Tridents. NERV, or should I say the US, has been unwilling to accept some very generous terms that my government offered. Therefore, we cannot in good conscious help such an organization."
"That is fine with us," said Larson, "That means no SSDF soldiers will be in the NERV complex. However, this also means that your attaché will have to leave."
Ambassador Hikowa was plainly furious. Without the attaché, the Japanese government had absolutely no way to keep track of NERV's movements. NERV would also probably keep a lid on everything it did. It would probably be impossible to even find out what food was being served in their cafeterias.
"I will have to consult with my government," she said.
Larson shrugged as if it wasn't of much concern. That was another insult aimed towards the Japanese government. But again there was no way to respond.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
It was a small village in Siberia, one that most people didn't even know existed. However, the people here were real and the danger they faced were too. Most made a living fishing and hunting, while some also worked as tour guides during the times people actually came to this desolate wasteland.
This time, the villagers got more than they bargained for. The people gathered round to look at the strange man that had appeared. He was wearing the uniform of a military officer, something many people here had seen before. However, what was different was the fact that he had long white hair and pale skin. The man also had red eyes, something that was almost unheard of here.
The man walked through the village, studying it. This place would suit perfectly. He had sensed activity down south twice already, and knew that two of his brethren had been defeated. One was destroyed while the other was captured, though he would not do anything about it. If they ever came for him, he would enjoy the fight. But for now, there were preparations to take care of.
One of the villagers approached him and asked him something in the native language. The Angel looked at him and the man cringed back. Suddenly he was sliced in half and screamed. The other villagers started running away while a few drew hunting rifles. They opened fire but all of their shots struck an orange field. The Angel simply stood there and watched with amusement. Things rose out of the snow-covered earth and long wicked blades extended from their arms. They stabbed the villagers and killed them. The bullets fired by the frightened villagers struck the things and felled them, but more kept appearing. The things were vaguely human but were completely white and had no features. Pretty soon the white snow was stained with blood.
People tried to run away but some fell. A woman screamed as a blade punched through her child and slashed her in her stomach. She clutched the remains of her child and cried to death. The carnage finally ended when the last human was dead.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"Fuck. Confirm this and get back to me."
Shinji had just gotten off the phone with the Joint Chiefs regarding the developments in New York when the call came in. It was pure luck that the Angel had been spotted, and by an intelligence satellite too. Apparently one of the techs was working on calibrations for the satellites and used a Russian village to do it. However, what he saw was dead bodies all over the place and a man standing there. He was holding no weapons and was dressed as a Chinese soldier. A shot that was taken when he looked up revealed that the man had red eyes and was not Asian. That was what set off the response.
"Asuka, get the suit packed up and down to the transport. Get all of the candidates together and have them fly with you to Siberia. The Russian government is willing to let us use one of their old airfields, and I have no idea what condition it is in, so be careful."
"Yes sir."
Shinji switched lines and called Rei.
"Rei, this is Shinji. An Angel has been sighted. Bring Rachel along and see if she can provide us with any information."
"Yes sir."
Shinji changed lines one final time and contacted Toji.
"Toji, get a security team to the airfield as fast as you can. Have them secure the area and keep out any interference from the Russians."
"Can't the US military do this?" Toji asked.
"No. Not the US' jurisdiction. Besides, we'll be fighting on Russian soil."
"Alright. I'm on my way."
Shinji switched off the headset and ran down to the main landing pad. He found Mana in her pilot suit waiting for him.
"Mana, with the current situation between NERV and the Japanese government, I think it'll be better if you stay here," he said.
"I was ordered to provide what support I can with the Trident," said Mana, "I'll pilot my own Trident, so none of you will have to use them."
Shinji looked at Mana for a while before finally nodding. "Very well."
Shinji got onboard the special command transport and had it lifted off. Mana quickly boarded the Trident and lifted off too. The two vehicles flew almost next to each other as they left Japanese territory and came out into the ocean.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Asuka had gathered everyone including Yui and Kyoko inside the hanger. Shinji had already left, which wasn't surprising. The security team Toji had put together had already lifted off while everyone else was boarding the transport. The suit was being loaded on as Asuka briefed everyone.
"So far intelligence is sketchy at best," she said, "We believe that the Angel is capable of creating servants that are extremely effective at melee combat. However, all of this is still not confirmed as the video we got from the satellite might have problems with it. For now, we're to deploy and wait for further instructions."
"What is General Ikari doing?" Crystal asked.
"He is already on his way to Russia. Let's get on board and catch up with him."
They boarded the transport and it lifted off. When they were all on Yui and Kyoko approached Rei and Asuka.
"Asuka, Rei, we have something for you," Kyoko said.
Behind the two scientists an American private was carrying a large case. He opened it and saluted the four before walking off. Asuka and Rei looked in and saw what looked like a sword. The handle was actually carved out of the blade though the angle was slanted in from where the blade reached down towards the handle.
"This is a prog sword," Yui explained, "It also can vibrate at a molecular level and is quite able to cut through most known substances. It might come in handy."
"Thanks," said Asuka, "Is this designed to be wielded using the suit or without?"
"Both," Kyoko replied, "though it would be more balanced if you used it with the suit."
Rei took out the sword and tested its weight and balance. It would indeed prove useful once they confronted the enemy.
"Do you have any other toys for us?" Asuka asked her mother.
"Just wait and see," Kyoko said with a wink.
They then sat down and strapped in. It would be a long flight to Russia.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
By the time Asuka and the others arrived a base camp and perimeter had already been set up at the old Russian airbase. Shinji could be seen talking with several Section 2 agents. He waved them away and ran to meet the others as they got off.
"Everyone here?" he asked.
Asuka nodded.
"Good. Asuka, try on the suit. We may need it this time."
The suit was being transported using a large steel crate and was extremely heavy. They were using a forklift to get it off and into one of the buildings. Asuka shivered in the cold, not happy to be caught here wearing lab clothes.
"Some coats have been made available," Shinji said to the shivering people, "They're in the main building so get one and try not to freeze to death."
Everyone literally ran to get coats and found that they all looked like the one Shinji was wearing. Completely unimaginative and plain, but they would do. When they came out they saw Mana talking with Shinji. The Trident was parked off to the side of the base with several soldiers guarding it. Asuka walked over and refrained from glaring at Mana. The other did the same.
"When do we move out?" she asked.
"Once the suit is up and running," said Shinji, "You, me, and Rei will move in to take care of this Angel. The others will stay behind and watch. Mana will offer artillery support and a fast getaway if things get too hot."
Asuka nodded acceptingly. She went off to get suited up.
"You still think she hates me?" Mana asked.
"She doesn't like you," said Shinji, "Just try not to do anything that will get her mad."
Mana nodded and didn't try to hug Shinji or anything. It was good advice no matter what.
Shinji walked to the VTOL craft waiting for him. A few minutes later Asuka came out wearing a very bulky looking suit. It completely covered her body and most of her head was covered with a visor. She walked over to Shinji slowly, as if unsure how to.
"Ready?" Shinji asked.
He could barely see Asuka's head bob up and down. Rei was behind her and watched to make sure Asuka didn't fall or something. The three got in and the craft lifted off. Mana's Trident followed closely behind.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
The Angel sensed the approach of some very powerful beings. He saw the two craft and focused his sense on them. There were three humans capable of utilizing their AT-Field, though one of them wasn't as nearly strong as the other two. The pilot of that strange craft showed some capability to use her AT-Field, but it hadn't manifested so she wasn't too much of a threat. However, it was the two powerful humans that intrigued him.
He probed deeper and realized that one of them was Lilith, the Second Angel. The Mother. That was certainly interesting. The memories of other Angels told him that Lilith fought for her children now. Therefore, she would be a threat.
The other presence was also familiar. The Angel quickly discarded the notion that the being was Adam. However, he still recognized it. The Messiah? This changed almost everything. The Angel quickly summoned another army to do its bidding. The Messiah would be a grave threat indeed.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
The VTOL craft landed and the three climbed out, Asuka carrying the prog sword. They walked the rest of the way and found a wall of things standing in their way. They looked very much like what had slaughtered the villagers and had blade extending from their arms.
"Destroy them," Shinji ordered.
As if that was a signal, the things swarmed them. The first group struck Shinji's AT-Field and it flashed for a second before all of them fell to pieces. Rei produced a sword-shaped AT-Field and used it to slice through any attacker that approached. Asuka had some trouble getting hers up but the prog sword served her well and killed her assailants. After finishing off this group, the walked into the village.
Seconds after stepping in, a massive army of the things appeared. They tried to get closer to the three but still encountered the AT-Fields. Sparks appeared as they slashed at the fields with their blades to no effect. Finally Shinji grew tired of this and destroyed all of them with a gesture. That was when the Angel appeared. He looked kind of like Kaworu, but had longer hair. He advanced towards them and spread out his own AT- Field. Suddenly he started running extremely quickly, dashing about. Shinji was barely able to keep track of him but couldn't stop him from launching the first attack.
The Angel neutralized Asuka's AT-Field almost immediately and slashed through the suit. Asuka screamed out in pain as the blade cut through the wiring and circuitry, leaving a bloody gash in Asuka's stomach. She dropped the sword which deactivated.
Shinji cursed and quickly grabbed the fallen sword. An AT-Field overlapped it and suddenly the sword started vibrating again. He saw the Angel come in for a second attack. Shinji didn't think, he simply reacted. The blade sliced right through the Angel's chest and stopped him. Finally, he fell to his knees. Shinji walked over to the Angel and lowered his face level to the Angel's.
"Who is your master?" he asked.
"You," the Angel said before falling and losing consciousness.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Back at the command center Rachel couldn't help but be impressed. Shinji had now mastered two of the three Angels that had appeared. He had managed to find both their weaknesses and exploited it. But what would happen in the long run?
End of Scenario 8
I've learned most of the meaning behind a lot of the stuff in Evangelion, except for this. Where did they come up with the names for the Angels? Adam is pretty obvious, but what about the rest?
Z98
Every once in a while I always feel the urge to answer some things my reviewers leave me, so here it goes.
No, I do not plan on having Mana and Shinji hook up again, and that's not giving away anything since I have other plans for her. I'd get crucified if I tried that at this stage of the story.
Dany, in order to come back from the dead you have to be dead in the first place. Kaji did not die, Shinji simply inverted his AT-Field and escaped into a 'pocket dimension,' and so far that's about it. You don't see any of Shinji's teammates around, do you? Oh, and what's wrong with Rachel going shopping? *evil grin*
Adaptation
Scenario 8: Multiply
"Well I'll be damned," Toji muttered, "Are these accurate?"
"It was your equipment we used to take them," Shinji told his friend, "We're pretty sure it was Kensuke."
"So he led the attack on the transport. What about the connections with that organization, what was it, the Alliance?"
"Not much turned up," said Shinji, "The Alliance is very good at hiding its assets and they're at least as effective as Seele."
"So that means there's another organization trying to put some strings on NERV," Asuka said in an annoyed tone.
"Of course," said Toji, "The question is, can we find them and stop them?"
"That would depend on the security organs," Rei stated, "I believe that is your department, Toji."
"Yeah, yeah. What about the US? What's the use of having them as an ally if they can't help us?"
"Be careful of what you say," Shinji warned, "and as to the US, they aren't turning up anything apparently. However, the Chinese Ministry of State Security has passed along a very useful piece of information to us. I think the CIA had a conniption fit when they read it."
Shinji handed each of them one of the folders he had brought. Inside was an intelligence report that the MSS had given the US since it didn't want to go through the UN.
"Now this is interesting," said Toji, "Why can't we act on this?"
"It isn't enough," said Shinji, "Besides, the US doesn't want to risk setting off an international incident. Also, Japan, Spain, Italy, and Russia are complaining that the US has too much control over NERV as both me and Asuka are technically American citizens."
"Asuka?" Toji said, taken by surprise.
"I was born in the States," Asuka informed them, "I was never a German citizen. I just lived there."
"So how is this different from when your father and Professor Fuyutsuki were in charge? They were both Japanese citizens."
"Except neither of them were in the military," Shinji pointed out, "I am officially a lieutenant general of the United States Special Forces, and that means I'll pay more attention to the US government than to the UN."
"Oh. Hadn't thought if it that way."
"How is the US responding to this?" Rei asked.
"They've pointed out that nearly everyone else on the command staff is Japanese, and that there are still inspectors from several Security Council members inside NERV."
"There is?" Asuka said.
"Of course," said Toji, "They are just here to make sure we don't build another EVA, though the suit has been approved by the UN."
"Which pissed the hell out of the Japanese government," Shinji added, "Right now NERV is caught within another political battle. However, their biggest problem now is that me and Rei are the only ones that can take on an Angel and win without assistance, and if I resign then the entire NERV command structure might fall apart."
"If you resign, then I'm coming with you," said Asuka, "That would probably seriously hurt NERV's capabilities."
"And also allow the US to operate an Angel-fighting force independent of the UN," Toji observed, "A very good plan."
Shinji relaxed and let the chair rotate a little. His friends had quickly seen the US' secondary plan just in case the UN decided to crack down. Unknown to them however, was that the UN could not attempt a crackdown. China was fully with the US on this one, as was Britain, and three vetoes of a Security Council resolution would seriously damage whoever tried to vote in favor of it. Russia was out of luck. Germany had so far stayed out of these little disputes, and for good reason. Its government had been ordered to not attempt anything and simply abstain from voting on such issues.
"Shinji, what if the UN attempts a forceful takeover?" Rei asked.
"They're going to get their asses kicked," Shinji replied confidently, "The UN isn't the only government that has a N2 arsenal."
"But that's technically illegal," said Asuka.
"Technically. That's illegal only if the US is part of the UN. But if the UN doesn't know about it, then the US won't have any trouble."
"An interesting point," said Rei, "What if the UN does find out?"
"World War III if the UN tries to interfere with the US' internal affairs," Shinji said bluntly, "Once the UN actually realizes how serious the US is, they won't risk getting themselves destroyed."
"That's a very risky gambit," Rei noted.
"We'll see."
Shinji left the room to let the others discuss the implications of the report. It actually was a great pity NERV couldn't act on the information the MSS had provided them. That was just the way things were.
Shinji returned to his office to find that another briefcase had been delivered. When he opened it, his heart nearly skipped a beat.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"What went wrong?" Kaji asked.
"The US forces were a lot more prepared than we thought," Kensuke reported, "They deployed some of their new elite troopers and we couldn't beat them."
He winced again as the doctor applied something to his leg. The bullet had been removed and it had hurt like hell, and the morphine still hadn't taken full effect yet.
"This is not good," said Kaji, "If NERV possesses the Dead Sea Scrolls, that means they again have the ability to destroy humanity."
"We all know that," said Kensuke, "but the UN is basically powerless in that area. The US is keeping a tight rein on NERV and won't let the UN interfere. The Japanese government has already filed several complaints but the answer from the Security Council is that NERV will not accede to their demands."
"What else is new?" Kaji asked him, "But the point is that the UN is now unable to stop NERV. That means we have to approach the Japanese government."
"Will the Alliance go for that?"
"If it means keeping NERV from ending the world, probably."
"You said probably," Kensuke noted.
"I can't predict on how they'll react, but the SSDF may be the only organization that has the weapons to defeat NERV."
"The Tridents."
Kaji nodded. It was certainly true enough. If they had the Tridents, the US regular army would have great difficulty defeating them. The only problem was getting the Japanese government to help them.
"I'll talk to some of my contacts and see what I can do," Kaji said, "For now, get some rest. Oh, I got another call from your girlfriend. Be sure to call her back."
"Of course."
"Did I ever tell you you're a hell lot luckier than me?"
"More than once," Kensuke replied, agreeing completely.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Rachel had been given a NERV uniform to wear for the duration and had just changed into it when Rei entered.
"Greetings Mother," she said with a smile.
"Hello Daughter. I assume you are growing accustomed to living among the lillium?"
"As much as our kind can. Tell me Mother, what should I be doing?"
"I thought you only took orders from Shinji," Rei said with one eyebrow raised.
"I do, but I would also like your advice, Mother."
"You may address me by my human name," Rei said to the Angel, "For now, simply live."
The Angel smiled. "Of course. What is my purpose here, or has General Ikari not told you?"
"Walk with me, Rachel."
The Angel got up from the chair and followed alongside Rei as she walked out of the room. The two women were silent at first, the only sound the thumping of their shoes. Finally they entered one of the main labs where Yui and Kyoko were working.
"Hello Rei," Yui greeted her adopted daughter, "Hello, Rachel."
The greeting towards the Angel was a bit more reserved. It wasn't because Yui was afraid of the creature, but more like she was unsure of it.
"Dr. Ikari, Dr. Soryu."
The Angel wasn't sure what to make of the women either. She knew that Rei regarded Dr. Ikari as her mother, so what did that make the human to herself? And it seemed rather odd. Lilith was the mother of humanity, and yet she considered such a lillium to be her own mother. The humans had certainly turned Lilith strange. Or was it something else?
"Mother, I would like to test out the suit providing it is ready," Rei said to Yui.
"Okay. But be careful, we're not completely sure about this thing."
Yui pressed a button and the suit opened up. Rachel watched as Rei got into it and was locked in. The thing hummed and activated.
"How is it working?" Yui asked.
"I am not sure yet."
Rei stepped off the platform walked in the suit and raised an arm. She looked down at it and nodded. Then an AT-Field manifested physically. Yui, Kyoko, and the staff jumped slightly at the sight of it but quickly started taking readings.
"That's an extremely strong AT-Field," Yui noted, "What was your sync rate?"
"My sync rate has nothing to do with the AT-Field," Rei said, "though this suit is certainly amplifying it. I nearly cut through the floor and ceiling."
"That's right," said Yui, "You're an Angel too. Well, I assume it works?"
"Asuka will have to be tested on it too," said Kyoko, "Rei can produce an AT-Field without help, but she does say it amplifies it. That's one step closer."
"Good," said Yui, "Where is Asuka?"
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Asuka was currently conducting some tests with the new arrivals and Hikari. They were taking a sync test in the simulated entry plugs. The only one that seemed to be uncomfortable in this situation was the woman from Great Britain. Her name was Crystal Whitney and she looked like she would barf.
"Don't worry about it Ms Whitney," Asuka said over the comm., "I've done this many times before and there has been no problems. Now please focus. We need to get an accurate reading."
Crystal sighed and closed her eyes again. She did her best to concentrate and felt something fuzzy inside her head. It might have been something to do with the synchronization.
Asuka looked down at the monitors and examined the scores. Hikari had a sync rate of 12%, very good for a first timer. It was rather surprising that she hadn't been tested during the period when Misato controlled NERV. She probably never considered it.
The candidate from France, a young man named Leon Jacquard, had a sync rate of 3% right now. That was actually the lowest but it was still something. Asuka had already seen the brown-haired man try to hit on some of the other NERV members. So far, only Crystal had reacted to his advances.
Grace Jost currently had a sync rate of 6%, which was actually pretty good. The young woman had short brown hair and her blue eyes were closed as she concentrated. Asuka looked closer and realized that her face didn't show much strain.
Asuka turned her attention back to Crystal. The British woman's sync rate was holding steady at 7%. It would take a while for them to get it higher, but for now all they could do was run some tests and try to get the suit working.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
There was a considerable amount of political maneuvering on the hand of the Japanese. However, every one of them was shot down by the combined efforts of Great Britain, China, and the United States. Karina Gunther, the German Secretary General, was handling the second major crisis during her time in office. The US had rejected the Japanese resolution, but Karina was seeing things more with the Japanese. If there weren't more restraints on the US and NERV, either could run out of control.
"The US government is overstepping its boundaries in this," Karina warned, "I personally believe that the Japanese government deserves to be allowed to station units within NERV to ensure that it does not get out of control again."
"And launch another massacre?" Jacob Larson questioned, "I think not. If the UN feels the need to allow Japanese soldiers inside NERV, the US will withdraw all support from NERV and recall all of the equipment and personnel we have placed there. That includes Lieutenant General Shinji Ikari and the suit."
"That suit is exclusively NERV property!" Hikowa shouted, "The US has no rights over it!"
"The suit was retrieved by American personnel, some of whom died to get it, and General Ikari," Larson shot back, "If the UN is unwilling to keep killers out of NERV, the US will work around the UN in our effort to destroy the Angel threat."
That caused a silence to fall throughout the chamber. What the US ambassador was threatening would undermine the UN's power structure and overall strength.
"Mr. Larson, consider carefully what you are saying," Karina said.
"I agree," said Chekov, "That is a direct challenge to the United Nations itself."
"How is that any different from what your government did?" Larson replied, "However, that is not the issue at hand. We will discuss the UN's jurisdiction at another time. The position of the United States government is unchanged. Either keep the Japanese soldiers off of NERV, or we will pull out. As you are well aware of, a large portion of NERV officers will most likely resign as well. That includes most of the advanced humans that can generate AT-Fields. Who will teach the other recruits? It is your mistake to make."
The tension was so high that no one even blinked. Karina finally cleared her throat and spoke.
"The United Nations will not forget this," she said, "However, in the interest of survival of humanity, the JSSDF is to leave NERV alone and not attempt to insert soldiers into the base."
"If that is the case the Japanese government wishes to inform the United Nations that we will be removing the Tridents. NERV, or should I say the US, has been unwilling to accept some very generous terms that my government offered. Therefore, we cannot in good conscious help such an organization."
"That is fine with us," said Larson, "That means no SSDF soldiers will be in the NERV complex. However, this also means that your attaché will have to leave."
Ambassador Hikowa was plainly furious. Without the attaché, the Japanese government had absolutely no way to keep track of NERV's movements. NERV would also probably keep a lid on everything it did. It would probably be impossible to even find out what food was being served in their cafeterias.
"I will have to consult with my government," she said.
Larson shrugged as if it wasn't of much concern. That was another insult aimed towards the Japanese government. But again there was no way to respond.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
It was a small village in Siberia, one that most people didn't even know existed. However, the people here were real and the danger they faced were too. Most made a living fishing and hunting, while some also worked as tour guides during the times people actually came to this desolate wasteland.
This time, the villagers got more than they bargained for. The people gathered round to look at the strange man that had appeared. He was wearing the uniform of a military officer, something many people here had seen before. However, what was different was the fact that he had long white hair and pale skin. The man also had red eyes, something that was almost unheard of here.
The man walked through the village, studying it. This place would suit perfectly. He had sensed activity down south twice already, and knew that two of his brethren had been defeated. One was destroyed while the other was captured, though he would not do anything about it. If they ever came for him, he would enjoy the fight. But for now, there were preparations to take care of.
One of the villagers approached him and asked him something in the native language. The Angel looked at him and the man cringed back. Suddenly he was sliced in half and screamed. The other villagers started running away while a few drew hunting rifles. They opened fire but all of their shots struck an orange field. The Angel simply stood there and watched with amusement. Things rose out of the snow-covered earth and long wicked blades extended from their arms. They stabbed the villagers and killed them. The bullets fired by the frightened villagers struck the things and felled them, but more kept appearing. The things were vaguely human but were completely white and had no features. Pretty soon the white snow was stained with blood.
People tried to run away but some fell. A woman screamed as a blade punched through her child and slashed her in her stomach. She clutched the remains of her child and cried to death. The carnage finally ended when the last human was dead.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"Fuck. Confirm this and get back to me."
Shinji had just gotten off the phone with the Joint Chiefs regarding the developments in New York when the call came in. It was pure luck that the Angel had been spotted, and by an intelligence satellite too. Apparently one of the techs was working on calibrations for the satellites and used a Russian village to do it. However, what he saw was dead bodies all over the place and a man standing there. He was holding no weapons and was dressed as a Chinese soldier. A shot that was taken when he looked up revealed that the man had red eyes and was not Asian. That was what set off the response.
"Asuka, get the suit packed up and down to the transport. Get all of the candidates together and have them fly with you to Siberia. The Russian government is willing to let us use one of their old airfields, and I have no idea what condition it is in, so be careful."
"Yes sir."
Shinji switched lines and called Rei.
"Rei, this is Shinji. An Angel has been sighted. Bring Rachel along and see if she can provide us with any information."
"Yes sir."
Shinji changed lines one final time and contacted Toji.
"Toji, get a security team to the airfield as fast as you can. Have them secure the area and keep out any interference from the Russians."
"Can't the US military do this?" Toji asked.
"No. Not the US' jurisdiction. Besides, we'll be fighting on Russian soil."
"Alright. I'm on my way."
Shinji switched off the headset and ran down to the main landing pad. He found Mana in her pilot suit waiting for him.
"Mana, with the current situation between NERV and the Japanese government, I think it'll be better if you stay here," he said.
"I was ordered to provide what support I can with the Trident," said Mana, "I'll pilot my own Trident, so none of you will have to use them."
Shinji looked at Mana for a while before finally nodding. "Very well."
Shinji got onboard the special command transport and had it lifted off. Mana quickly boarded the Trident and lifted off too. The two vehicles flew almost next to each other as they left Japanese territory and came out into the ocean.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Asuka had gathered everyone including Yui and Kyoko inside the hanger. Shinji had already left, which wasn't surprising. The security team Toji had put together had already lifted off while everyone else was boarding the transport. The suit was being loaded on as Asuka briefed everyone.
"So far intelligence is sketchy at best," she said, "We believe that the Angel is capable of creating servants that are extremely effective at melee combat. However, all of this is still not confirmed as the video we got from the satellite might have problems with it. For now, we're to deploy and wait for further instructions."
"What is General Ikari doing?" Crystal asked.
"He is already on his way to Russia. Let's get on board and catch up with him."
They boarded the transport and it lifted off. When they were all on Yui and Kyoko approached Rei and Asuka.
"Asuka, Rei, we have something for you," Kyoko said.
Behind the two scientists an American private was carrying a large case. He opened it and saluted the four before walking off. Asuka and Rei looked in and saw what looked like a sword. The handle was actually carved out of the blade though the angle was slanted in from where the blade reached down towards the handle.
"This is a prog sword," Yui explained, "It also can vibrate at a molecular level and is quite able to cut through most known substances. It might come in handy."
"Thanks," said Asuka, "Is this designed to be wielded using the suit or without?"
"Both," Kyoko replied, "though it would be more balanced if you used it with the suit."
Rei took out the sword and tested its weight and balance. It would indeed prove useful once they confronted the enemy.
"Do you have any other toys for us?" Asuka asked her mother.
"Just wait and see," Kyoko said with a wink.
They then sat down and strapped in. It would be a long flight to Russia.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
By the time Asuka and the others arrived a base camp and perimeter had already been set up at the old Russian airbase. Shinji could be seen talking with several Section 2 agents. He waved them away and ran to meet the others as they got off.
"Everyone here?" he asked.
Asuka nodded.
"Good. Asuka, try on the suit. We may need it this time."
The suit was being transported using a large steel crate and was extremely heavy. They were using a forklift to get it off and into one of the buildings. Asuka shivered in the cold, not happy to be caught here wearing lab clothes.
"Some coats have been made available," Shinji said to the shivering people, "They're in the main building so get one and try not to freeze to death."
Everyone literally ran to get coats and found that they all looked like the one Shinji was wearing. Completely unimaginative and plain, but they would do. When they came out they saw Mana talking with Shinji. The Trident was parked off to the side of the base with several soldiers guarding it. Asuka walked over and refrained from glaring at Mana. The other did the same.
"When do we move out?" she asked.
"Once the suit is up and running," said Shinji, "You, me, and Rei will move in to take care of this Angel. The others will stay behind and watch. Mana will offer artillery support and a fast getaway if things get too hot."
Asuka nodded acceptingly. She went off to get suited up.
"You still think she hates me?" Mana asked.
"She doesn't like you," said Shinji, "Just try not to do anything that will get her mad."
Mana nodded and didn't try to hug Shinji or anything. It was good advice no matter what.
Shinji walked to the VTOL craft waiting for him. A few minutes later Asuka came out wearing a very bulky looking suit. It completely covered her body and most of her head was covered with a visor. She walked over to Shinji slowly, as if unsure how to.
"Ready?" Shinji asked.
He could barely see Asuka's head bob up and down. Rei was behind her and watched to make sure Asuka didn't fall or something. The three got in and the craft lifted off. Mana's Trident followed closely behind.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
The Angel sensed the approach of some very powerful beings. He saw the two craft and focused his sense on them. There were three humans capable of utilizing their AT-Field, though one of them wasn't as nearly strong as the other two. The pilot of that strange craft showed some capability to use her AT-Field, but it hadn't manifested so she wasn't too much of a threat. However, it was the two powerful humans that intrigued him.
He probed deeper and realized that one of them was Lilith, the Second Angel. The Mother. That was certainly interesting. The memories of other Angels told him that Lilith fought for her children now. Therefore, she would be a threat.
The other presence was also familiar. The Angel quickly discarded the notion that the being was Adam. However, he still recognized it. The Messiah? This changed almost everything. The Angel quickly summoned another army to do its bidding. The Messiah would be a grave threat indeed.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
The VTOL craft landed and the three climbed out, Asuka carrying the prog sword. They walked the rest of the way and found a wall of things standing in their way. They looked very much like what had slaughtered the villagers and had blade extending from their arms.
"Destroy them," Shinji ordered.
As if that was a signal, the things swarmed them. The first group struck Shinji's AT-Field and it flashed for a second before all of them fell to pieces. Rei produced a sword-shaped AT-Field and used it to slice through any attacker that approached. Asuka had some trouble getting hers up but the prog sword served her well and killed her assailants. After finishing off this group, the walked into the village.
Seconds after stepping in, a massive army of the things appeared. They tried to get closer to the three but still encountered the AT-Fields. Sparks appeared as they slashed at the fields with their blades to no effect. Finally Shinji grew tired of this and destroyed all of them with a gesture. That was when the Angel appeared. He looked kind of like Kaworu, but had longer hair. He advanced towards them and spread out his own AT- Field. Suddenly he started running extremely quickly, dashing about. Shinji was barely able to keep track of him but couldn't stop him from launching the first attack.
The Angel neutralized Asuka's AT-Field almost immediately and slashed through the suit. Asuka screamed out in pain as the blade cut through the wiring and circuitry, leaving a bloody gash in Asuka's stomach. She dropped the sword which deactivated.
Shinji cursed and quickly grabbed the fallen sword. An AT-Field overlapped it and suddenly the sword started vibrating again. He saw the Angel come in for a second attack. Shinji didn't think, he simply reacted. The blade sliced right through the Angel's chest and stopped him. Finally, he fell to his knees. Shinji walked over to the Angel and lowered his face level to the Angel's.
"Who is your master?" he asked.
"You," the Angel said before falling and losing consciousness.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Back at the command center Rachel couldn't help but be impressed. Shinji had now mastered two of the three Angels that had appeared. He had managed to find both their weaknesses and exploited it. But what would happen in the long run?
End of Scenario 8
I've learned most of the meaning behind a lot of the stuff in Evangelion, except for this. Where did they come up with the names for the Angels? Adam is pretty obvious, but what about the rest?
Z98
