Uh, make the jump ten years instead. I made a few mistakes in the notes in
the prologue. If anyone needs the emotional development that takes place
in between those six years, it's something similar to Recru of EVA, but not
the same. There are some serious divergences. Also, the prologue was
meant to be disjointed. All it did was offer a glimpse, nothing else. It
wasn't meant to develop anything. Besides, I didn't actually try to do any
cleaning up after I had finished the draft.
Reprise of Humanity
Chapter 1: Call of Destiny
The JA unit fired its jets a few more time before finally landing on the airfield. One of the new JA-Delta models, it was based on the second design the Japanese military had created. Sleeker than the original JA- Beta, the Delta had machine railguns mounted on its two arms and armor plating covered most of its body, including its legs. This eliminated any potential problems with enemies shooting at the weak points. But the greatest improvement was in its armaments. It had two missile launchers mounted on its back with a large positron cannon in between. The cannon was one of the greatest developments of the Japanese military and very similar to the positron artillery used to destroy the 5th Angel. Though not as powerful, it was still more than enough to destroy any target other humans might build. The JA still looked like a dinosaur without a tail and there had been extensive modification to the head as well. Originally the thing looked very ugly but now it had a T-Rex like head. There was an outline for a mouth that actually did exist, which hid another smaller positron cannon, and two green eyes. A great deal of sensory equipment was packed in behind them and the eyes acted as lenses for several of them. All this added up to a very well equipped combat walker, capable of flight and tight maneuvers. It was also semi-amphibious and had a new control system installed.
The neuro-link system was based off of the EVA's pilot system but did not require any kind of sync rate. Having a sync rate actually seemed to improve performance and reaction time but it wasn't needed.
The walker lowered itself and came to a rest inside a massive hanger. It was lowered on an elevator and several vehicles towed the JA into its parking space next to three others. When it came to a rest the cockpit opened and the pilot jumped down. Removing his helmet, the young man of twenty-one was quite handsome. He had a serious look in his dark eyes and yet they seemed to have this spark in them. He was probably a good inch or so taller than the average man and had finally toned muscles, though nothing bordering on serious bulk. His hair was cut short and straightforward and there was nothing seriously distinguishing him from any other young man in the world.
"Lieutenant Ikari."
Shinji Ikari turned his head and saw one of his fellow pilots, Mana Kirishima. Her hair had grown longer and fell to her waist now, despite the persistence of the developer's of the JA claiming that long hair was a hindrance when piloting. Her pale green eyes hadn't changed much but they were brighter now. She walked up to him and handed him a folder and then planted a kiss on his cheek.
"I see the test-run was successful," she said.
"The JA performs well," said Shinji, "It's almost as responsive as an EVA."
"Oh, stop with the it's almost as responsive, almost as powerful, almost as effective," Mana said tiredly, "The JA will never be an EVA so just drop it."
Shinji smiled at his girlfriend and took her hand. "Sorry. Old memories."
The two walked out of the hanger and into a large military complex. The base was outside of Tokyo 4 and acted like as a test and storage facility for the newest weapons the JSSDF was designing and building. Again Tokyo was built to accommodate the people that worked at a top secret military installation, but this time the government had also placed their heat in the well defended citadel. And this time, instead of having an UN operation running in their country, the Japanese government controlled the going-on of Tokyo 4.
"The UN's been grumbling about the Japanese government not sharing all of its resources," said Mana, "There's talk of a demonstration of the JA's abilities. Some of the ministers think it might give the UN some pause."
"We aren't the only ones keeping secrets from the United Nations," said Shinji, "What about the Chinese government? I heard they're making progress in creating a new pulse detonation engine."
"And it's something we could use," said Mana, "Conventional jet engines do have their limits."
The current political climate in the world was surprisingly stable, considering all of the countries that had started to challenge the authority of the UN Security Council. The leading challenger was actually the United States, who still held a great deal of influence over the Council. The faction that still supported the UN was Germany, a major superpower now and close allies with Great Britain, another permanent member of the Security Council. However, the US also had the support of Russia so the playing field was more or less level. China was starting to edge towards the US side but was now negotiating a deal in which they would share their new pulse detonation engine.
"Which way do you think Japan will swing?" Shinji asked his girlfriend.
"Probably with the United Nations," said Mana, "Currently we want some of the technology the UN is holding onto. I mean, when you joined the Japanese military you brought along a bunch of stuff from NERV, but we still need access to the UN's space force."
That was true enough. After the reconstruction had been more or less completed in most of the industrialized nations, the UN had rebuilt and repaired its fleet of space cruisers. Each one was about the size of a destroyer and there were currently ten of them. At least three of them were up in space at the moment, being used to watch the skies and the earth. There were also plans to build three orbital platforms in preparation for a massive effort to colonize the moon and Mars.
Doors opened into the lockers and the two went their separate ways. Shinji stripped and took a quick shower before changing back into his normal uniform. Despite his quickness, Mana was already waiting for him outside.
"How is it that you always beat me?" he asked with a smile.
"I'm a girl," Mana said cheerfully, "I'm supposed to be neater and faster than you."
"Right."
Shinji wrapped an arm around her waist and the two walked out to the briefing room. General Terakata of the Japanese Tactical Directorate was waiting for them. He was the one that had begun the JA project so long ago and finally everyone was coming to fruition.
Both pilots saluted. "Reporting as ordered, sir!"
"At ease, lieutenants," said Terakata, "And take a seat."
"Thank you sir!"
The two sat down and waited for the general to speak.
"The General Staff has asked me when I can start deploying the JA-Delta," Terakata began, "As you well know, the Delta is an excellent combat unit and because of that the UN wants us to utilize it to assist in peacekeeping operations."
"What kind of operations would these be?" Shinji asked.
"The Middle East is still a mess and the UN troops are having trouble attacking terrorist camps. They're very well dug in and have armor support. Now with the Delta, that wouldn't even be of consideration. As things stand, I'm ready to tell them that we can launch this mission. The question is whether the two of you feel ready to go on such an operation."
"We're ready to go," Mana answered after she saw Shinji nod. "But are we only deploying two units?"
"Yes. You and Lieutenant Ikari are the better pilots so of course any deployment assignment would go to you unless you so refuse."
Shinji shrugged. "We have no reason to refuse. When do we move out?"
"At the latest, two weeks. I suggest you rest while you can. Once in Iran, you'll be facing some very uncomfortable conditions."
"As uncomfortable as survival training?" Mana asked, eyebrow raised.
This drew a smile from Terakata. "I wouldn't know. But be careful. Iran is hostile territory and I don't know how much support the UN forces can give you. A maintenance and security team will accompany you but that's it. We can't send any more troops."
"Understood," said Shinji.
The two saluted once more and left the room. The JAs were ready for deployment but neither of them had actually killed anyone before. Now they were going into a war.
"So you really think we're ready?" Mana asked once the doors closed.
"I have absolutely no idea," said Shinji, "Shooting simulations is one thing. Shooting real people is another entirely."
"You've come a long way from that shy little boy I once knew," Mana said to him. "Maybe you'll come even farther after we come back."
Shinji grinned and kissed Mana again. "Maybe we don't have to wait until I come back."
Mana giggled and let Shinji carry her off to their quarters.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"The Security Council conveys its gratitude to the Nation of Japan for lending us the use of the JA-Delta units," said Secretary General Modal Hernandez. "However, if the United States had been willing to commit even one division of its armored forces and supporting air units, we would have finished off these terrorists long ago."
"These incidents in the Middle East is of no concern to the United States," said Michael Hayracks, "We committed forces to putting down three incidents in the Middle East and are tired of seeing our troops go to waste. You have promised us three times that once our forces were committed the terrorist threat would be quashed, but has this happened? No! Therefore we see no reason to even consider assisting the United Nations on another futile 'peacekeeping mission,' as you call them."
"If we do not keep the peace, then who will?" the German representative, Gerhard Luther asked, "It's quite simple. The United Nations is the only organization equipped with the logistical support to operate all over the world and thus we need it to ensure that Earth doesn't fall into total anarchy again."
"If I remember correctly, an UN agency called NERV nearly ended the world," said Hayracks, "I see no reason why the UN should even be trusted."
"Back then the United Nations was being manipulated by an organization known as Seele," said Hernandez, "We had no way of knowing our actions would have caused Third Impact."
"And how do we know the UN isn't being manipulated now?" Hayracks demanded.
"How do we know the US isn't trying to manipulate the UN for its own goals?" Luther countered, "There is no point to this bickering and I suggest we get onto more pressing matters. One of them is the reformation of NERV."
"The reformation of an agency that nearly destroyed humanity is unacceptable," said Hayracks, "You're insane for wanting to revive such an organization."
"We are looking at a very serious issue," Hernandez interrupted, "Now, I will go through the background information one more time. With the advancement of biotechnology and cybernetics, we have found that we require a central authority in this issue. Our current agencies are all inadequate but if we bring back an organization that was heavily involved in biotechnology, we can bring the various research projects under one authority."
Hayracks slammed his fist on his table. "The United States will not accept the reinstitution of NERV! I have authorization from the president to veto any resolution that would reactivate NERV."
"There are other concerns," Hernandez said sternly, "We have reason to believe that several terrorist cells are developing biological weapons. NERV would also be tasked to using what intelligence we gather to create treatments, cures, even something to destroy these diseases. Also, several private corporations are preparing to patent some new cybernetics technology without our approval. We need to bring them under our control immediately before that technology is put to use in harmful ways."
"So the UN is turning into a socialist organization now?" Hayracks sneered, "Either way, the US will veto any such resolution."
"As the Secretary General, Mr. Hernandez has the right to overrule such a veto," said the Chinese representative, Jing Lao. "It was part of the emergency act the Security Council passed after Second Impact. And I can assure Mr. Hernandez that the People's Republic of China will support him on such an action. Also, you have hardly been polite in your objections to the actions of the UN. I would like to know why you are so opposed to reforming NERV."
"Call it common sense," said Hayrack, "Would I want to recreate an organization that most people know of as something that nearly destroyed the world? It would be a public relations nightmare."
"Not if we choose the right person to head this new organization," said Hernandez.
That drew looks from the gathered delegates. Few people had if any had enough public goodwill to make NERV lose its dark history, and anyone who did probably wouldn't want to risk losing that goodwill by trying.
"And who would this person be?" asked Lao.
"Dr. Asuka Langley Soryu," Luther answered for the Secretary General. "She has been in charge of the former German NERV Branch for two years now and would be up to the challenge of reconstructing NERV. Also, she was a former EVA pilot and thus one of the people that fought against the initiation of Third Impact. Thus more people will be willing to trust her judgment about the future of NERV."
Hayracks considered it and nodded. "Perhaps. However, we shall just have to see how well she handles this. The US government will still not allow the NERV First Branch to be reopened until Dr. Soryu proves that she is capable of handling the responsibilities of NERV."
"Now we must decide where to place NERV headquarters," said Hernandez, "As our representative from the United States has said that his government will not allow NERV to be on their land for the time being, the choice falls between Japan and Germany. Both held the former NERV branches and Tokyo 3 was formally NERV's command center."
"The Japanese government has no objections to NERV Command being relocated to Germany," said Hiroshi Sato, the Japanese representative. "Currently Tokyo 4 is home to many workers for our military research and development base outside the city, so we have no wish for NERV moving in just yet. We also would like to see how Dr. Soryu does before we allow the construction of a NERV Branch in Japan."
"Perfectly acceptable," said Hernandez, "We understand your, reluctance, to allow NERV back into your country, especially after that fiasco at the end of the Angel Wars."
The 'fiasco' was the massacre the Japanese Special Forces had launched inside NERV. It had taken a great deal of effort by the UN, for they had ordered the attack, and the Japanese government, for they had carried it out, to regain the trust of the average citizen all around the world. The forgiveness of Asuka Langley Soryu and Shinji Ikari had helped greatly, and the monument the Japanese government had erected helped some more.
"Shall we notify Dr. Soryu of her new position?" Luther asked.
Hernandez nodded. "Dr. Soryu is the perfect choice. She is well educated in biotechnology, genealogy, and quantum physics. But there is another matter. The Japanese military developed and built several bipedal assault units, which you call the JA. The JA-Alpha was a failure but the JA-Beta was a success. Now you have developed the JA-Delta and have agreed to lend us it in the Middle East for pacification operations. Is there any chance your military is willing to supply the United Nations Air Force with the designs for these machines?"
"Unlikely," said Sato, "Our JA units were developed using Japanese money and unless we are given something in return the Japanese government sees no reason to release the plans of such a powerful weapon."
"We are willing to trade other technologies for it," said Hayrack, "The Chinese government is willing to share their new pulse-detonation engine with the UN and we would gladly give you copies of the plans and actual engines. There is also the matter of the promising work being done on artificial muscles and nervous systems in the US."
"I shall convey the request to my government," Sato replied, "but I can make no promises."
"As long as we have candidates, we will be fine," said Hernandez, "What about Shinji Ikari? If Dr. Soryu declines our offer, we need other possibilities."
The Japanese representative shook his head. "I seriously doubt Lieutenant Shinji Ikari would be interested in assuming a position his father held. Besides, he's happy with his life right now and probably doesn't want to change."
"That's fine. However, do we have any other candidates for the position of commander in chief of NERV if Dr. Soryu refuses?" Hernandez asked.
Unfortunately, the rest of the candidates suggested were all chosen for political reasons. Hernandez sighed. He hoped Dr. Soryu would accept the position, or Lieutenant Ikari would if she didn't.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"Shinji."
Opening his eyes, Shinji saw that they were preparing to land in Bangalore. They would fuel up and join up with another group of transports carrying troops and equipment to the Middle East.
"Are you going to stay on board?" Mana asked.
"Yeah. I don't really see any reason to walk around the airport."
"You're no fun. Why don't we go stretch our legs? It would do you some good."
Shinji was about to decline but Mana pulled him up and pushed him out. Some of the other troops chuckled at seeing their superior being henpecked.
"Wait until you guys actually get girlfriends," Shinji shot back.
This caused all of them to burst out into laughter.
Mana looped her arm through Shinji's and walked with him around the airport. They got something to eat and sat down at a table when someone on the TV caught Shinji's attention. It was the half-leaf that was the symbol of NERV.
"Shinji? What's wrong?"
Mana followed his gaze and gasped when she saw the TV.
"Excuse me, can you turn it up?"
The bartender understood English so he upped the volume. The report was speaking in English with Indian subtitles flowing at the bottom of the screen.
"And so it is official. The United Nations Security Council has passed Resolution 5820, reinstituting the NERV organization. This highly controversial decision comes at a time when the United Nations is struggling to maintain its control over several nations that are attempting to assert their sovereignty. Also, the candidates for the position of commander in chief of NERV includes two well known personalities that were part of NERV, Shinji Ikari and Dr. Asuka Langley Soryu. Mr. Ikari faded into obscurity and later was rumored to have joined the Japanese Special Self-Defense Force, while Dr. Soryu continued her education in advanced biotechnology, high energy physics, and several other theoretical fields. She made several important contributions to perfecting nuclear fusion and developed cybernetic attachments for people who lost an arm or leg.
"There are also rumors regarding Mr., excuse me, Lieutenant Ikari, is heavily involved in the Japanese JA project. Now there isn't much information about it but it apparently was an attempt that the Japanese military launched to try to find a more cost-effective way to fight Angels. We currently do not know much about Project: JA but we will bring our viewers any information we can."
Shinji stood up immediately. "Let's go."
"But the-"
"We can eat it on the plane, but we have to get out of here now before reporters track us down."
Mana nodded and got a bag from the counter. They put their food inside and quickly walked away back to their plane. Unfortunately for them reporters had apparently figured out they were in the airport and were also headed for the plane.
"Run!"
The two dashed over and got in just before the reporters caught sight of them. That set them off and they tried to get Shinji's attention.
"Lieutenant Ikari! Lieutenant Ikari! Please, a word! What do you think about the UN selecting you as candidate of NERV? Lieutenant!"
Inside several of the guards met Shinji.
"Sergeant, make sure those people do not get in here," Shinji ordered, "Push them back and prepare to lift off once we've refueled. How long will that be?"
"Five more minutes."
"Then get on it!"
"Yes sir."
The guards took out their rifles and moved out of the plane. They pushed the reporters back but allowed airport security to take care of the job once they arrived. Inside the plane Shinji sat back and tried to finish his lunch.
"Just when my life is peaceful and going well the UN pulls a stunt like this," he muttered.
"Maybe it'll turn out to be a good thing," Mana suggested, "Maybe you were meant to take control of NERV and undo the evils that your father committed."
Shinji shook his head. "No good can come out of reestablishing NERV for any reason. It was founded to destroy the human race and its purpose probably won't change."
"But consider everything you know! You would be perfect to remake NERV in your own image!"
Shinji thought about it but shook his head no again. Mana was one of the few people who knew he held the collective knowledge of humanity within his mind. How it remained there without exploding was beyond him but he had used it to further the JA Project and several other projects Research and Development were working on. The General Staff knew of Shinji's abilities but they had kept everything classified. It was also rumored that Shinji would be on the fast track to promotion once he gained a bit more practical experience in the field.
"You really should think about it," said Mana.
"The data for a lot of the Angel research still remain," said Shinji, "and I'm pretty sure that's what Asuka has been working on for quite some time now. The only reason they would reestablish NERV would be because they made some kind of discovery that scares them. Or another discovery that gives them some kind of hope. Either way, I'm not going to be involved with an organization that ended up killing two people who acted as my surrogate parents, forced me to maim my best friend, and stripped my sister of her life."
Mana wrapped an arm around him and leaned against his chest.
"Maybe that's why you need to go back," she said, "To make peace with those memories. Besides, don't you want to be famous? To clear your family's name? The Ikari name is your mother's, not your father's. He was the one who tarnished it. Shouldn't you try to fix that?"
Shinji sighed and took Mana into his arms. "I've never told you this, but my mother was the one who began the Human Instrumentality Project. In a way, neither of them were that good. My mother was willing to end the world for me. And I know, you're going to say that just showed how much she loved me, but I cannot forgive either of them for making such a decision. So at the moment, I don't think I can do anything to make that name mean something to me again."
Mana nodded and kissed him lightly. "I'm sorry Shinji. I didn't know."
"Lieutenant, we're ready to take off."
"Then get us out of here," Shinji ordered.
"Yes sir."
"You really don't like reporters, do you?" Mana asked.
"Of course not. Reporters don't care about the convenience of the people they keep bothering. There was a time when reporters were after the truth, but these days reporters are no better than politicians and bureaucrats."
"Now that seems a little harsh," Mana commented.
Shinji shrugged. "That's just how I feel. How long before we reach Iran?"
"Four more hours," said Mana, "So we have time to catch a quick nap."
"Good, cause I'm pretty sure life is going to suck again once we touch down."
"You expect more reporters?"
"That, and Muslims don't exactly treat women the same way we do," Shinji added.
"Oh."
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"Dr. Soryu, there's a phone call for you on line 8"
"I'll be there in a sec."
Asuka Langley Soryu had grown into quite a lovely young lady in the past ten years. She adjusted her glasses and stood up from the microscope. Under her lab coat she wore a long skirt and a white shirt and did her best to remain modest. Unlike Misato, she had an appreciation for her body. Her assistant went back to work while Asuka walked out of the lab. The facility was the most modern anywhere in Germany and one of the best in the world. Research in biotechnology, genealogy, and a little into fusion technology. She picked up the phone outside the lab and pressed for line 8.
"This is Dr. Soryu."
"Dr. Soryu, this is Dr. Donitz. I just got a call from the Foreign Ministry and apparently you have been selected as a candidate for NERV."
"NERV? They've reestablished it?"
"Almost. They still have to choose a location for the new NERV headquarters and choose a commander and right now you are their top choice. Also, NERV headquarters will most likely be in Germany since both the Japanese and American governments are reluctant to have anything to do with NERV until it's demonstrated that NERV is under control."
"Why me? Why not Shinji? He's even more qualified than me to take over NERV and I'm sure he would want a chance to clear his family's name."
"Apparently Lieutenant Ikari is also a candidate but he's after you. The UN Security Council has reason to believe that he has personal objections to taking such a position. However, they do wish for one of you to take control of NERV. It would give NERV a better image at first."
Asuka sighed. "So my selection is purely because of political reasons?"
"Hardly. Your academic record is superb and your accomplishments in biotechnology have not been overlooked. That is why you are the perfect candidate in their eyes."
There was certainly some truth behind that. After returning to Germany eight years ago Asuka had joined the Berlin Institute of Science and had developed a theory regarding the future of human evolution. One thing led to another and she was quickly given a grant to pursue another theory she had about the nerve connections within the human body. She managed to decode most of the chemical and electrical signals the brain emitted and won a Nobel Prize for that. Now she was pursuing more research into the technology behind the EVAs for they seemed to be linked to the future of humanity's evolution.
"I will accept if Shinji doesn't want the appointment," said Asuka.
"Is that your official response?" Donitz asked.
"Yes doctor."
"Very well. Oh, Asuka, there are going to be a lot of reporters wanting to talk to you about this. Should we keep them out?"
"Yes. You know I can't stand reporters."
"Just checking. Well, keep up the good work and I'll relay your response upstairs."
Asuka hung up the phone and went back to work. There was no point in wasting time.
"What was that about?" her assistant asked.
"Nothing important."
End of Chapter 1
Uh, I had a bunch of notes for this chapter but I'm struggling to remember them. Oh yeah. Obviously Shinji and Asuka separated but we'll see some interesting developments before the end of the story. Or even halfway. Believe me on that one. And as of now, all other fanfics are on hold, though my original story is going to keep going. And as I've begged many times before, PLEASE GO CHECK IT OUT ON FICTIONPRESS.COM!!!!!!!!! It's called Gathering of Force by the way.
Z98
Reprise of Humanity
Chapter 1: Call of Destiny
The JA unit fired its jets a few more time before finally landing on the airfield. One of the new JA-Delta models, it was based on the second design the Japanese military had created. Sleeker than the original JA- Beta, the Delta had machine railguns mounted on its two arms and armor plating covered most of its body, including its legs. This eliminated any potential problems with enemies shooting at the weak points. But the greatest improvement was in its armaments. It had two missile launchers mounted on its back with a large positron cannon in between. The cannon was one of the greatest developments of the Japanese military and very similar to the positron artillery used to destroy the 5th Angel. Though not as powerful, it was still more than enough to destroy any target other humans might build. The JA still looked like a dinosaur without a tail and there had been extensive modification to the head as well. Originally the thing looked very ugly but now it had a T-Rex like head. There was an outline for a mouth that actually did exist, which hid another smaller positron cannon, and two green eyes. A great deal of sensory equipment was packed in behind them and the eyes acted as lenses for several of them. All this added up to a very well equipped combat walker, capable of flight and tight maneuvers. It was also semi-amphibious and had a new control system installed.
The neuro-link system was based off of the EVA's pilot system but did not require any kind of sync rate. Having a sync rate actually seemed to improve performance and reaction time but it wasn't needed.
The walker lowered itself and came to a rest inside a massive hanger. It was lowered on an elevator and several vehicles towed the JA into its parking space next to three others. When it came to a rest the cockpit opened and the pilot jumped down. Removing his helmet, the young man of twenty-one was quite handsome. He had a serious look in his dark eyes and yet they seemed to have this spark in them. He was probably a good inch or so taller than the average man and had finally toned muscles, though nothing bordering on serious bulk. His hair was cut short and straightforward and there was nothing seriously distinguishing him from any other young man in the world.
"Lieutenant Ikari."
Shinji Ikari turned his head and saw one of his fellow pilots, Mana Kirishima. Her hair had grown longer and fell to her waist now, despite the persistence of the developer's of the JA claiming that long hair was a hindrance when piloting. Her pale green eyes hadn't changed much but they were brighter now. She walked up to him and handed him a folder and then planted a kiss on his cheek.
"I see the test-run was successful," she said.
"The JA performs well," said Shinji, "It's almost as responsive as an EVA."
"Oh, stop with the it's almost as responsive, almost as powerful, almost as effective," Mana said tiredly, "The JA will never be an EVA so just drop it."
Shinji smiled at his girlfriend and took her hand. "Sorry. Old memories."
The two walked out of the hanger and into a large military complex. The base was outside of Tokyo 4 and acted like as a test and storage facility for the newest weapons the JSSDF was designing and building. Again Tokyo was built to accommodate the people that worked at a top secret military installation, but this time the government had also placed their heat in the well defended citadel. And this time, instead of having an UN operation running in their country, the Japanese government controlled the going-on of Tokyo 4.
"The UN's been grumbling about the Japanese government not sharing all of its resources," said Mana, "There's talk of a demonstration of the JA's abilities. Some of the ministers think it might give the UN some pause."
"We aren't the only ones keeping secrets from the United Nations," said Shinji, "What about the Chinese government? I heard they're making progress in creating a new pulse detonation engine."
"And it's something we could use," said Mana, "Conventional jet engines do have their limits."
The current political climate in the world was surprisingly stable, considering all of the countries that had started to challenge the authority of the UN Security Council. The leading challenger was actually the United States, who still held a great deal of influence over the Council. The faction that still supported the UN was Germany, a major superpower now and close allies with Great Britain, another permanent member of the Security Council. However, the US also had the support of Russia so the playing field was more or less level. China was starting to edge towards the US side but was now negotiating a deal in which they would share their new pulse detonation engine.
"Which way do you think Japan will swing?" Shinji asked his girlfriend.
"Probably with the United Nations," said Mana, "Currently we want some of the technology the UN is holding onto. I mean, when you joined the Japanese military you brought along a bunch of stuff from NERV, but we still need access to the UN's space force."
That was true enough. After the reconstruction had been more or less completed in most of the industrialized nations, the UN had rebuilt and repaired its fleet of space cruisers. Each one was about the size of a destroyer and there were currently ten of them. At least three of them were up in space at the moment, being used to watch the skies and the earth. There were also plans to build three orbital platforms in preparation for a massive effort to colonize the moon and Mars.
Doors opened into the lockers and the two went their separate ways. Shinji stripped and took a quick shower before changing back into his normal uniform. Despite his quickness, Mana was already waiting for him outside.
"How is it that you always beat me?" he asked with a smile.
"I'm a girl," Mana said cheerfully, "I'm supposed to be neater and faster than you."
"Right."
Shinji wrapped an arm around her waist and the two walked out to the briefing room. General Terakata of the Japanese Tactical Directorate was waiting for them. He was the one that had begun the JA project so long ago and finally everyone was coming to fruition.
Both pilots saluted. "Reporting as ordered, sir!"
"At ease, lieutenants," said Terakata, "And take a seat."
"Thank you sir!"
The two sat down and waited for the general to speak.
"The General Staff has asked me when I can start deploying the JA-Delta," Terakata began, "As you well know, the Delta is an excellent combat unit and because of that the UN wants us to utilize it to assist in peacekeeping operations."
"What kind of operations would these be?" Shinji asked.
"The Middle East is still a mess and the UN troops are having trouble attacking terrorist camps. They're very well dug in and have armor support. Now with the Delta, that wouldn't even be of consideration. As things stand, I'm ready to tell them that we can launch this mission. The question is whether the two of you feel ready to go on such an operation."
"We're ready to go," Mana answered after she saw Shinji nod. "But are we only deploying two units?"
"Yes. You and Lieutenant Ikari are the better pilots so of course any deployment assignment would go to you unless you so refuse."
Shinji shrugged. "We have no reason to refuse. When do we move out?"
"At the latest, two weeks. I suggest you rest while you can. Once in Iran, you'll be facing some very uncomfortable conditions."
"As uncomfortable as survival training?" Mana asked, eyebrow raised.
This drew a smile from Terakata. "I wouldn't know. But be careful. Iran is hostile territory and I don't know how much support the UN forces can give you. A maintenance and security team will accompany you but that's it. We can't send any more troops."
"Understood," said Shinji.
The two saluted once more and left the room. The JAs were ready for deployment but neither of them had actually killed anyone before. Now they were going into a war.
"So you really think we're ready?" Mana asked once the doors closed.
"I have absolutely no idea," said Shinji, "Shooting simulations is one thing. Shooting real people is another entirely."
"You've come a long way from that shy little boy I once knew," Mana said to him. "Maybe you'll come even farther after we come back."
Shinji grinned and kissed Mana again. "Maybe we don't have to wait until I come back."
Mana giggled and let Shinji carry her off to their quarters.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"The Security Council conveys its gratitude to the Nation of Japan for lending us the use of the JA-Delta units," said Secretary General Modal Hernandez. "However, if the United States had been willing to commit even one division of its armored forces and supporting air units, we would have finished off these terrorists long ago."
"These incidents in the Middle East is of no concern to the United States," said Michael Hayracks, "We committed forces to putting down three incidents in the Middle East and are tired of seeing our troops go to waste. You have promised us three times that once our forces were committed the terrorist threat would be quashed, but has this happened? No! Therefore we see no reason to even consider assisting the United Nations on another futile 'peacekeeping mission,' as you call them."
"If we do not keep the peace, then who will?" the German representative, Gerhard Luther asked, "It's quite simple. The United Nations is the only organization equipped with the logistical support to operate all over the world and thus we need it to ensure that Earth doesn't fall into total anarchy again."
"If I remember correctly, an UN agency called NERV nearly ended the world," said Hayracks, "I see no reason why the UN should even be trusted."
"Back then the United Nations was being manipulated by an organization known as Seele," said Hernandez, "We had no way of knowing our actions would have caused Third Impact."
"And how do we know the UN isn't being manipulated now?" Hayracks demanded.
"How do we know the US isn't trying to manipulate the UN for its own goals?" Luther countered, "There is no point to this bickering and I suggest we get onto more pressing matters. One of them is the reformation of NERV."
"The reformation of an agency that nearly destroyed humanity is unacceptable," said Hayracks, "You're insane for wanting to revive such an organization."
"We are looking at a very serious issue," Hernandez interrupted, "Now, I will go through the background information one more time. With the advancement of biotechnology and cybernetics, we have found that we require a central authority in this issue. Our current agencies are all inadequate but if we bring back an organization that was heavily involved in biotechnology, we can bring the various research projects under one authority."
Hayracks slammed his fist on his table. "The United States will not accept the reinstitution of NERV! I have authorization from the president to veto any resolution that would reactivate NERV."
"There are other concerns," Hernandez said sternly, "We have reason to believe that several terrorist cells are developing biological weapons. NERV would also be tasked to using what intelligence we gather to create treatments, cures, even something to destroy these diseases. Also, several private corporations are preparing to patent some new cybernetics technology without our approval. We need to bring them under our control immediately before that technology is put to use in harmful ways."
"So the UN is turning into a socialist organization now?" Hayracks sneered, "Either way, the US will veto any such resolution."
"As the Secretary General, Mr. Hernandez has the right to overrule such a veto," said the Chinese representative, Jing Lao. "It was part of the emergency act the Security Council passed after Second Impact. And I can assure Mr. Hernandez that the People's Republic of China will support him on such an action. Also, you have hardly been polite in your objections to the actions of the UN. I would like to know why you are so opposed to reforming NERV."
"Call it common sense," said Hayrack, "Would I want to recreate an organization that most people know of as something that nearly destroyed the world? It would be a public relations nightmare."
"Not if we choose the right person to head this new organization," said Hernandez.
That drew looks from the gathered delegates. Few people had if any had enough public goodwill to make NERV lose its dark history, and anyone who did probably wouldn't want to risk losing that goodwill by trying.
"And who would this person be?" asked Lao.
"Dr. Asuka Langley Soryu," Luther answered for the Secretary General. "She has been in charge of the former German NERV Branch for two years now and would be up to the challenge of reconstructing NERV. Also, she was a former EVA pilot and thus one of the people that fought against the initiation of Third Impact. Thus more people will be willing to trust her judgment about the future of NERV."
Hayracks considered it and nodded. "Perhaps. However, we shall just have to see how well she handles this. The US government will still not allow the NERV First Branch to be reopened until Dr. Soryu proves that she is capable of handling the responsibilities of NERV."
"Now we must decide where to place NERV headquarters," said Hernandez, "As our representative from the United States has said that his government will not allow NERV to be on their land for the time being, the choice falls between Japan and Germany. Both held the former NERV branches and Tokyo 3 was formally NERV's command center."
"The Japanese government has no objections to NERV Command being relocated to Germany," said Hiroshi Sato, the Japanese representative. "Currently Tokyo 4 is home to many workers for our military research and development base outside the city, so we have no wish for NERV moving in just yet. We also would like to see how Dr. Soryu does before we allow the construction of a NERV Branch in Japan."
"Perfectly acceptable," said Hernandez, "We understand your, reluctance, to allow NERV back into your country, especially after that fiasco at the end of the Angel Wars."
The 'fiasco' was the massacre the Japanese Special Forces had launched inside NERV. It had taken a great deal of effort by the UN, for they had ordered the attack, and the Japanese government, for they had carried it out, to regain the trust of the average citizen all around the world. The forgiveness of Asuka Langley Soryu and Shinji Ikari had helped greatly, and the monument the Japanese government had erected helped some more.
"Shall we notify Dr. Soryu of her new position?" Luther asked.
Hernandez nodded. "Dr. Soryu is the perfect choice. She is well educated in biotechnology, genealogy, and quantum physics. But there is another matter. The Japanese military developed and built several bipedal assault units, which you call the JA. The JA-Alpha was a failure but the JA-Beta was a success. Now you have developed the JA-Delta and have agreed to lend us it in the Middle East for pacification operations. Is there any chance your military is willing to supply the United Nations Air Force with the designs for these machines?"
"Unlikely," said Sato, "Our JA units were developed using Japanese money and unless we are given something in return the Japanese government sees no reason to release the plans of such a powerful weapon."
"We are willing to trade other technologies for it," said Hayrack, "The Chinese government is willing to share their new pulse-detonation engine with the UN and we would gladly give you copies of the plans and actual engines. There is also the matter of the promising work being done on artificial muscles and nervous systems in the US."
"I shall convey the request to my government," Sato replied, "but I can make no promises."
"As long as we have candidates, we will be fine," said Hernandez, "What about Shinji Ikari? If Dr. Soryu declines our offer, we need other possibilities."
The Japanese representative shook his head. "I seriously doubt Lieutenant Shinji Ikari would be interested in assuming a position his father held. Besides, he's happy with his life right now and probably doesn't want to change."
"That's fine. However, do we have any other candidates for the position of commander in chief of NERV if Dr. Soryu refuses?" Hernandez asked.
Unfortunately, the rest of the candidates suggested were all chosen for political reasons. Hernandez sighed. He hoped Dr. Soryu would accept the position, or Lieutenant Ikari would if she didn't.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"Shinji."
Opening his eyes, Shinji saw that they were preparing to land in Bangalore. They would fuel up and join up with another group of transports carrying troops and equipment to the Middle East.
"Are you going to stay on board?" Mana asked.
"Yeah. I don't really see any reason to walk around the airport."
"You're no fun. Why don't we go stretch our legs? It would do you some good."
Shinji was about to decline but Mana pulled him up and pushed him out. Some of the other troops chuckled at seeing their superior being henpecked.
"Wait until you guys actually get girlfriends," Shinji shot back.
This caused all of them to burst out into laughter.
Mana looped her arm through Shinji's and walked with him around the airport. They got something to eat and sat down at a table when someone on the TV caught Shinji's attention. It was the half-leaf that was the symbol of NERV.
"Shinji? What's wrong?"
Mana followed his gaze and gasped when she saw the TV.
"Excuse me, can you turn it up?"
The bartender understood English so he upped the volume. The report was speaking in English with Indian subtitles flowing at the bottom of the screen.
"And so it is official. The United Nations Security Council has passed Resolution 5820, reinstituting the NERV organization. This highly controversial decision comes at a time when the United Nations is struggling to maintain its control over several nations that are attempting to assert their sovereignty. Also, the candidates for the position of commander in chief of NERV includes two well known personalities that were part of NERV, Shinji Ikari and Dr. Asuka Langley Soryu. Mr. Ikari faded into obscurity and later was rumored to have joined the Japanese Special Self-Defense Force, while Dr. Soryu continued her education in advanced biotechnology, high energy physics, and several other theoretical fields. She made several important contributions to perfecting nuclear fusion and developed cybernetic attachments for people who lost an arm or leg.
"There are also rumors regarding Mr., excuse me, Lieutenant Ikari, is heavily involved in the Japanese JA project. Now there isn't much information about it but it apparently was an attempt that the Japanese military launched to try to find a more cost-effective way to fight Angels. We currently do not know much about Project: JA but we will bring our viewers any information we can."
Shinji stood up immediately. "Let's go."
"But the-"
"We can eat it on the plane, but we have to get out of here now before reporters track us down."
Mana nodded and got a bag from the counter. They put their food inside and quickly walked away back to their plane. Unfortunately for them reporters had apparently figured out they were in the airport and were also headed for the plane.
"Run!"
The two dashed over and got in just before the reporters caught sight of them. That set them off and they tried to get Shinji's attention.
"Lieutenant Ikari! Lieutenant Ikari! Please, a word! What do you think about the UN selecting you as candidate of NERV? Lieutenant!"
Inside several of the guards met Shinji.
"Sergeant, make sure those people do not get in here," Shinji ordered, "Push them back and prepare to lift off once we've refueled. How long will that be?"
"Five more minutes."
"Then get on it!"
"Yes sir."
The guards took out their rifles and moved out of the plane. They pushed the reporters back but allowed airport security to take care of the job once they arrived. Inside the plane Shinji sat back and tried to finish his lunch.
"Just when my life is peaceful and going well the UN pulls a stunt like this," he muttered.
"Maybe it'll turn out to be a good thing," Mana suggested, "Maybe you were meant to take control of NERV and undo the evils that your father committed."
Shinji shook his head. "No good can come out of reestablishing NERV for any reason. It was founded to destroy the human race and its purpose probably won't change."
"But consider everything you know! You would be perfect to remake NERV in your own image!"
Shinji thought about it but shook his head no again. Mana was one of the few people who knew he held the collective knowledge of humanity within his mind. How it remained there without exploding was beyond him but he had used it to further the JA Project and several other projects Research and Development were working on. The General Staff knew of Shinji's abilities but they had kept everything classified. It was also rumored that Shinji would be on the fast track to promotion once he gained a bit more practical experience in the field.
"You really should think about it," said Mana.
"The data for a lot of the Angel research still remain," said Shinji, "and I'm pretty sure that's what Asuka has been working on for quite some time now. The only reason they would reestablish NERV would be because they made some kind of discovery that scares them. Or another discovery that gives them some kind of hope. Either way, I'm not going to be involved with an organization that ended up killing two people who acted as my surrogate parents, forced me to maim my best friend, and stripped my sister of her life."
Mana wrapped an arm around him and leaned against his chest.
"Maybe that's why you need to go back," she said, "To make peace with those memories. Besides, don't you want to be famous? To clear your family's name? The Ikari name is your mother's, not your father's. He was the one who tarnished it. Shouldn't you try to fix that?"
Shinji sighed and took Mana into his arms. "I've never told you this, but my mother was the one who began the Human Instrumentality Project. In a way, neither of them were that good. My mother was willing to end the world for me. And I know, you're going to say that just showed how much she loved me, but I cannot forgive either of them for making such a decision. So at the moment, I don't think I can do anything to make that name mean something to me again."
Mana nodded and kissed him lightly. "I'm sorry Shinji. I didn't know."
"Lieutenant, we're ready to take off."
"Then get us out of here," Shinji ordered.
"Yes sir."
"You really don't like reporters, do you?" Mana asked.
"Of course not. Reporters don't care about the convenience of the people they keep bothering. There was a time when reporters were after the truth, but these days reporters are no better than politicians and bureaucrats."
"Now that seems a little harsh," Mana commented.
Shinji shrugged. "That's just how I feel. How long before we reach Iran?"
"Four more hours," said Mana, "So we have time to catch a quick nap."
"Good, cause I'm pretty sure life is going to suck again once we touch down."
"You expect more reporters?"
"That, and Muslims don't exactly treat women the same way we do," Shinji added.
"Oh."
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"Dr. Soryu, there's a phone call for you on line 8"
"I'll be there in a sec."
Asuka Langley Soryu had grown into quite a lovely young lady in the past ten years. She adjusted her glasses and stood up from the microscope. Under her lab coat she wore a long skirt and a white shirt and did her best to remain modest. Unlike Misato, she had an appreciation for her body. Her assistant went back to work while Asuka walked out of the lab. The facility was the most modern anywhere in Germany and one of the best in the world. Research in biotechnology, genealogy, and a little into fusion technology. She picked up the phone outside the lab and pressed for line 8.
"This is Dr. Soryu."
"Dr. Soryu, this is Dr. Donitz. I just got a call from the Foreign Ministry and apparently you have been selected as a candidate for NERV."
"NERV? They've reestablished it?"
"Almost. They still have to choose a location for the new NERV headquarters and choose a commander and right now you are their top choice. Also, NERV headquarters will most likely be in Germany since both the Japanese and American governments are reluctant to have anything to do with NERV until it's demonstrated that NERV is under control."
"Why me? Why not Shinji? He's even more qualified than me to take over NERV and I'm sure he would want a chance to clear his family's name."
"Apparently Lieutenant Ikari is also a candidate but he's after you. The UN Security Council has reason to believe that he has personal objections to taking such a position. However, they do wish for one of you to take control of NERV. It would give NERV a better image at first."
Asuka sighed. "So my selection is purely because of political reasons?"
"Hardly. Your academic record is superb and your accomplishments in biotechnology have not been overlooked. That is why you are the perfect candidate in their eyes."
There was certainly some truth behind that. After returning to Germany eight years ago Asuka had joined the Berlin Institute of Science and had developed a theory regarding the future of human evolution. One thing led to another and she was quickly given a grant to pursue another theory she had about the nerve connections within the human body. She managed to decode most of the chemical and electrical signals the brain emitted and won a Nobel Prize for that. Now she was pursuing more research into the technology behind the EVAs for they seemed to be linked to the future of humanity's evolution.
"I will accept if Shinji doesn't want the appointment," said Asuka.
"Is that your official response?" Donitz asked.
"Yes doctor."
"Very well. Oh, Asuka, there are going to be a lot of reporters wanting to talk to you about this. Should we keep them out?"
"Yes. You know I can't stand reporters."
"Just checking. Well, keep up the good work and I'll relay your response upstairs."
Asuka hung up the phone and went back to work. There was no point in wasting time.
"What was that about?" her assistant asked.
"Nothing important."
End of Chapter 1
Uh, I had a bunch of notes for this chapter but I'm struggling to remember them. Oh yeah. Obviously Shinji and Asuka separated but we'll see some interesting developments before the end of the story. Or even halfway. Believe me on that one. And as of now, all other fanfics are on hold, though my original story is going to keep going. And as I've begged many times before, PLEASE GO CHECK IT OUT ON FICTIONPRESS.COM!!!!!!!!! It's called Gathering of Force by the way.
Z98
