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the Series and the Movies from them. I did, and it was worth every dime.
I don't own anything except my DVD's, and this is done for my own
satisfaction.
Episode 2:06 Dancing with an Angel.
Takes place after 1st season, and the End of Evangelion Movie.
Presumed date is Saturday June 11th, 2016
Shinji stood before the full-length mirror in the Grooms dressing room at the Temple, and looked at his reflection. The tuxedo was much more comfortable than anyone could have guessed by looking at the young man wearing it. Shinji turned a little to check out how it fit, wondering if the Tails that Misato had wanted them to wear would have looked better.
Kaji, however, had stood firm on that point, however, and chosen a uniquely elegant design. No ruffles, no cumber-bun, no silly looking bow ties. Instead they were wearing an elegantly tailored black suit, with white shirts and a red silk vest, printed with a paisley pattern.
"Don't admire yourself too much, Shinji, let the girls do that," Kaji commented, seeing Shinji looking at himself.
Shinji blushed, "Thanks Kaji, now I'm nervous again."
"So, got your speech all ready?"
"Yeah, I was working on it all last night. I think I've finally gotten the words down the way I want them," Shinji said, a knowing glint in his eyes. "Anyway, how soon are we supposed to be starting?"
"Any minute now. In fact, I'm surprised that we haven't seen Professor Fuyutsuki, yet. He should be here getting ready too."
"It's not like him to be late," Shinji commented.
"No it's not. I wonder. Could Misato have needed some last minute counseling about our wedding night?" Kaji said, winking at Shinji.
"Kaji. I'm 15 years old, and you've just scarred me for life, thank you for sharing that image with me," Shinji shuddered.
Kaji laughed. The boy, no, young man, was certainly growing up. A year ago Shinji would have looked at the ground, blushed, and apologized. Maybe that had something to do with a little tidbit of information that Misato had shared with him not long after they'd Awakened, and been picked up by Shinji.
"Oh, I don't know, I'd think that kiss Misato planted on you would have done more damage than anything I could ever say," Kaji said.
Shinji went pale, remembering the kiss like it was yesterday. Only the second real kiss he'd ever had, and he was very embarrassed about it.
"Kaji, I'm sorry, I..." he began, but faltered.
Kaji laughed, "Don't sweat it kid. Misato and I have no secrets. I just wanted you to know that I know, and that I'm not jealous in the least."
"Really Kaji, there's nothing to be jealous of. She didn't kiss me because she loved me, she kissed me to motivate me, and because she thought it was the last kindness she could do for me before she died," Shinji explained.
Kaji hesitated, wanting Shinji to continue, but not wanting to press. Since they'd all Awakened, most people had remembered bits and pieces of the scenes involving the last moments before Third Impact, but Shinji and Asuka could remember everything, since they were the focal point of the energy that was unleashed.
He knew today wasn't an appropriate day to discuss such things, but the young man looked like he needed someone to talk to desperately, and Kaji remembered is own awkward adolescence. He' not become the charmer he was until after Second Impact. He was about to ask Shinji to continue when there was a rap on the door.
"There's Fuyutsuki now," Kaji said, opening the door.
Professor Fuyutsuki, however was not the person standing there. Doctor Ritsuko Akagi was, not wearing her red gown, as had been planned, but an elegant black silk pant suit.
"Ritsuko? What..." Kaji began, before Ritsuko shushed him.
"Sorry, Kaji, but Misato requested this change at the last minute. My dress wasn't ready," she said, and both men knew she was lying. "So in order to keep me as part of the wedding party, she asked if I would be the one to lead the ceremony. Professor Fuyutsuki was a little upset, but after some quick explaining on Misato's part, he said that he understood. Misato found something else for him to do, anyway."
"Ah. Okay, well I guess that's alright then," said Kaji.
"Ready Shinji?" Ritsuko asked him.
"Sure. I mean, it's not like I'm the one getting married," Shinji said. "I still have the rest of my life to look forward too," he grinned.
"Keep it up Shinji, and you're going to be best man in a full body cast," Kaji said.
"If you two are quite through, I think we should avoid keeping everyone waiting," Ritsuko said, motioning them to exit the room, and head into the main part of the Temple.
The three of them walked down the aisle, and took their positions upon the steps, before a shrine decorated with several different sacred images from the world's religions. Shinji shuddered when he saw the cross, symbol of the crucifixion. He and Unit-01 had been crucified, and then pierced by the Lance of Longinus. His palms still bore the scars of the Stigmata. It was NOT an experience he enjoyed remembering.
Kensuke and Toji were sitting out in the audience, and talking softly, mostly to avoid annoying Hikari. Officially, this was a double date, Toji being here with Hikari, and Kensuke being here with her 13 year old sister, Nazomi, but Kensuke kept telling Suzuhara that the only reason he agreed to come with the younger Horaki, was that there was no way Hikari was gonna let him live it down if he DIDN'T take her little sister to the first Wedding since the Awakenings began.
"You know, I hadn't really noticed, but Ikari is taller than I remember him," Kensuke said.
"Yeah, I hear yah. Being out of it for six months means we've missed a lot of changes. I asked Shinji the other night while we were doing dishes, and he said that he's grown almost 4 inches since he woke up. He's also put on some muscle. You can see it through the Tux. Must be all that working out he's been doing as part of his training. I hear Misato's really been busting his butt on the NERV obstacle course."
"I can't wait. I'm supposed to start physical conditioning next month, as soon as Doctor Akagi says I'm released from light duty."
"Yeah, I'm anxious to get started too. I've been swimming laps in the pool, to try and build up some stamina. But what I really want to do is hit the weights like Shinji."
"Shhh, you guys, the ceremony is starting," Hikari shushed.
Elegantly soft music was being piped through the music system, and the crowd turned to watch the brides procession down the aisle. First came Nazomi, Hikari's sister, dressed in a white lace dress and a basket of fake rose petals. These she scattered across the floor in front of her, and preceded down the aisle until she was feet from Ritsuko, Kaji, and Shinji. She bowed to the three of them, and then moved off to the side, getting out of the way of all the adults.
The music picked up speed and increased in pomp, and the gathered crowd saw a vision in red taffeta make her way up the aisle. Asuka, clad in the gown that had been meant for Ritsuko, bore a bouquet of white flowers and babies breath before her. Blushing slightly she continued down the aisle in measured steps, coming to a stop opposite Shinji, and turning to look back at the entrance to the Temple.
The music shifted, and struck a serious and solemn chord as the wedding march begin. Misato walked around the corner, and into the Temple. She was escorted down the aisle by Professor Fuyutsuki himself.
'So that's why the sudden change,' Kaji thought. Then he beamed. Misato had never looked lovelier. Her face mostly hidden by the white veil she wore, and her figure shown off by the lace and silk of the dress she'd chosen. Eschewing a long train, and ball gown, she'd chosen a form fitting dress, with a simple hat and veil. In her hands, her bouquet of red and white roses were trembling slightly.
'Well what do you know,' thought Shinji, 'She's nervous. Go figure.' Shinji couldn't really understand why she was so nervous. After all she'd known Kaji for years, ever since college, and they'd been a couple on again and off again for nearly that long. Still it was somehow reassuring to know that this woman could be nervous.
As Misato approached the Alter, Shinji's gaze drifted back to Asuka. He was entranced. She was absolutely beautiful, standing there in that red dress. He shifted slightly as Kaji turned to face Ritsuko, holding Misato's hand in his. He was still staring at Asuka out of the corner of his eye when Kaji shook his shoulder.
"The RING," he whispered hoarsely.
"Oh yeah, right," Shinji said, recovering quickly, and reached into his vest pocket to retrieve the ring. He handed it to Kaji, and tried to pay attention to what Kaji and Ritsuko were saying, but he kept catching site of Asuka, and drifting off.
Finally he was brought back to reality when Ritsuko announced, in a loud voice, for all to hear, "I present to you Mister and Missus Ryoji." The crowd rose to their feet with thunderous applause, and the organist began playing music again. Kaji and Misato walked gracefully down the aisle, and were about to exit the Temple when he heard a hiss to his right.
"Shinji," Asuka whispered, "we're supposed to hold hands and follow them out, you idiot."
"Oh, yeah, right, sorry Asuka, I was just so happy." He held out his arm for her and she linked her left arm is his right, and together they strolled out into the reception hall.
Kaji and Misato were standing there in a passionate embrace, and Shinji had the urge to leave them like that, but Asuka cleared her throat. "You two. Really. Can't you wait until tonight, we have to get this reception under way."
Misato broke away from Kaji, smiling. "You're not still jealous, are you Asuka?"
"Of course not, I couldn't be happier right now. For you two that is," and she quickly removed her arm from Shinji's. She had been clasping his fingers with her own, and was feeling far to comfortable with the sensation.
The four of them lined up at the entrance to the reception hall, and, as the guests began to filter out of the Temple, greeted them, and welcomed them to the party. Music began to play, wine, champagne, and punch were brought out. A large multi-tiered cake was featured prominently at a central table, and there were smaller tables supporting snack trays and surrounded by chairs.
Shinji felt like his hand would fall off, by the time the last person drifted into the room. He'd shaken the hand of almost 400 people, and his own hand was very sore indeed. He flexed it unconsciously, harkening back to those days last year when he'd picked up the nervous tick. It hadn't reappeared since then, but now he did it as he tried to stretch his hands out.
Kaji and Misato were moving up to the table with the cake on it, and, after a few jerky slices, they'd freed a piece for each of them. Shinji knew what was coming, but enjoyed it anyway. Kaji, the caring gentleman, fed his bride a piece of cake daintily. Misato, the eternal prankster, smiled devilishly, and stuffed the whole piece in Kaji's face, covering him is icing. She then proceeded to wipe it off using Kaji's own red silk handkerchief. Drinks were passed out, and Shinji glanced down at his own. It was bubbling, but the faint scent let him know that it was definitely NOT champagne. Most likely bubbling apple cider of some kind, but he didn't care.
Standing up from his seat at the head table, he picked up a fork and tapped it against the crystal goblet he held.
"Can I have your attention please? Thank you." He took a deep breath and hurried on, hoping he didn't forget any of the carefully worked out toast. "I'd like to make a toast to Misato and Kaji. On this, your wedding day, you are surrounded by loved ones, and it is my duty to honor the occasion with special words. I have thought long and hard about the meaning of the vows you have just spoken before us gathered here today, and have decided to honor the two of you thusly."
Misato was blushing with pride, and Kaji's lips twitched up in a slight smile, almost a smirk, but not nearly as contemptuous. 'Well he's off to a good start,' Kaji thought.
Shinji continued, clearing his throat and taking a breath. "When I look upon the two of you I see not two people, but a couple. While this sounds plain to some, this word denotes special meaning to those who recognize it. No longer are you to be thought of as two single souls, vulnerable and adrift within the world. Instead you are the anchor, upon which others will come to depend, as they need your strength and guidance. You are the grassy field, upon which a family will one day be brought forth. And finally, you are two pieces of a much larger puzzle. While you share things with many other individuals, you are never more at peace than when you are together, each of you complimenting the other, and adding together to make something greater than simple sum of your two parts. When I see Kaji standing there, and Misato next to him, I know that if he ever falters or despairs, Misato will be there for him. And as I see Misato, I know that when her fears disturb her dreams, and problems plague her days, Kaji will be there to succor and support her through those times. I can only hope that when my times comes, I may find someone who compliments me as well as the two of you compliment each other. Kaji. Misato. KAMPAI!"
With this final shout Shinji lifted his glass into the air, brought it down, and drained it in one swift motion.
A brief pause, followed by shouts of KAMPAI and cheers followed Shinji's actions. Around him, Shinji's closest friends, Misato, Kaji, Ritsuko, and Professor Fuyutsuki all stared, open mouthed and in shock. Kaji and Misato rushed towards him, hugging him and clapping him on the back.
"Shinji that was wonderful, I haven't ever heard a better wedding toast, thank you," Misato cried.
"My pleasure Misato. Now please stop crying, you're going to ruin your makeup."
"I don't care about my makeup you lunk, I'm crying because I'm happy and proud."
Shinji blushed, not used to the compliment. "Uh, thanks Misato, I'm just happy that you liked it."
"Well what do you know, one of the three stooges might actually have some class," Asuka said. Shinji's blush deepened, but now instead of quiet pride and embarrassment, he felt very self-aware and awkward. 'Now what did I say THAT for,' she thought, 'He was really sweet and thoughtful, and I had to go and make him feel bad.'
Hugging Shinji firmly, and proudly, Kaji glanced at Asuka's snide remark. 'Still have to be the center of attention eh Asuka; no matter the cost? I hope you don't end up pushing him away. I have a feeling you'd never forgive yourself,' he thought.
Kaji released Shinji and turned to wave at the band, who played an instrumental version of his and Misato's favorite song. Slowed down, and on acoustics, instead of at blazing speed, and with electric guitars, it was actually a very romantic song.
Shinji noticed the two of them drifting out onto the dance floor, and watched as they swayed, in time to the beat, around the room. That was his signal. When this song ended the wedding party would join the couple on the dance floor, and would gradually be joined by the remaining crowd. He turned and looked for Ritsuko, figuring that he would still be sharing this dance with her.
"Oh no Shinji, I performed the ceremony. You have to dance with the Maid of Honor," she said.
"But that means..." Shinji gulped. 'Asuka and I have to dance,' he finished silently.
He turned around and noticed Asuka standing behind him, straightening out her dress. She looked up at him. "Well Shinji?"
"Asuka, we have to, I mean, that is." 'Okay, pause, take a breath, relax, she's probably nervous too. Yeah right, look at her, she's absolutely beautiful. So calm, so relaxed, so poised.' Shinji cleared his throat, "Ahem. Asuka, would you like to dance?" he asked softly.
"Well it IS tradition," she said smugly, and grabbed Shinji's hand, leading him onto the dance floor as the music died away. Another slow, sonorous song began, and Shinji stepped in close to Asuka, taking her left hand in his right, and wrapping his left arm around her waist, pulling her even closer.
"Step on my toes and die, Shinji," she whispered to him. Shinji smiled down at her, "Deal. Same goes for you Asuka." 'At least I'll die happy,' he thought savoring the feel of her body pressed up against his.
'Hey, wait a minute,' she thought furiously, 'since when have I ever had to look UP to Shinji. I'm taller than he is. Aren't I?' She carefully examined her memory and realized that Shinji must have gone through a grown spurt sometime since their awakening, and was now almost four inches taller than her. The problem was he was always slouching, so she couldn't tell he'd gotten taller. Now, with the Tux on, he was forcing himself to his full height, and Asuka estimated that he was now at least two inches taller than her.
'Wow, he's tall AND he's got muscles,' she thought, running her right arm up Shinji's back, as they swayed around the floor, carefully examining his improving build. 'No longer the skinny little boy I used to bully around the apartment.'
"When did you get taller than me?" She asked him.
"Oh, must have been just recently. I've grown a lot the last couple months, and my balance is all messed up. So don't rock the boat too much, or I might end up falling over," he replied.
"Well you need to stand up straight more often. Quit slouching, it's bad for you," she scolded.
"Yes, Asuka..."'-chan,' the finished mentally.
Ritsuko and Professor Fuyutsuki had joined the dancers on the floor, and were motioning for others to join them. As the crowd gathered, Fuyutsuki glanced over Doctor Akagi's shoulder at the two former EVA pilots. "Am I right in assuming that this is the REAL reason I had to walk Misato down the aisle, and YOU performed the ceremony?"
"Why Professor, are you accusing me of setting this situation up?" Ritsuko turned her head away, faking a blush.
"Why, yes, I believe I am."
"Very well then, the answer is yes. We set this whole thing up to get Shinji and Asuka together. Somehow they just seem to fit well, but the two of them don't seem to realize it yet. After last nights dancing lesson with Shinji, I realized that I might be able to help those two make some headway. And it looks like all of mine and Misato's planning is about to pay off. Look." She pointed back to the subjects of their conversation.
Shinji and Asuka were still dancing, but no longer seemed aware of the music, or anyone else for that matter. Shinji had now wrapped both of his arms around Asuka's waist , while Asuka's arms were draped over his, palms resting on his shoulders as they swayed to some unheard beat. Their faces were very close together, and they were gazing into each other's eyes.
"Kaji look," Misato whispered, nudging her husband, and indicating the two oblivious dancers.
"Mmm, remind you of anyone we know?" he asked playfully, leaning in close to kiss her.
"Kaji... If I miss this after all the hard work Ritsuko and I have done setting this up, you are a dead man."
"WHOA!" Kaji whisper back, shocked. "No need to get violent Misato."
"I'm sorry love, you just don't understand everything. Those two have been so hurt by their parents, that they've built these huge walls between themselves and the rest of the world. Somehow, while they lived together with me, they managed to open up to each other, even if just a little bit. I look on the two of them as my children, and like every good mother, I want my children to be happy, and not miserable little hedgehogs."
"I think I see what you're getting at, but if Shinji doesn't take his shot soon, I'm going to miss out on some very serious kissing that I could be doing with my wife," Kaji leered.
"Oh you," she smiled, and gave him a quick peck on the lips. They were still dancing, but had slowed below the pace of the song, that was coming to an end, and were paying more attention to the young couple not five feet away.
Shinji continued to gaze down at Asuka, his breath coming is fits and spurts. He could feel her warm breath, equally as fast, on his neck, as she gazed back up at him. He breathed in deeply, inhaling her scent. This was more intoxicating than that time he'd gotten hold of some of Misato's beer and decided to see what was so special about getting drunk. Now, he was drunk with the scent of Asuka, and he doubted if he'd ever find an equal high from mere alcohol.
Shinji suddenly felt the need to lean closer to her, almost like he wanted to become one with her, not repeating the closeness Instrumentality, but desiring a different kind of closeness. Both of them had stopped dancing, or even moving, but neither of them seemed to notice. As Shinji leaned in closer to her, Asuka tilted her head back, closed her eyes and parted her lips. Shinji, in turn, opened his lips slightly and leaned in to Asuka, closing his eyes lightly as well.
Their lips touched, and the rest of the world vanished.
Asuka's hands slipped up behind Shinji's head, pulling him deeply into the kiss that she so longed for.
Shinji answered her passion, shifting his arms so that he now gripped the back of her shoulders, and could crush her softly against him. Somewhere in some small corner of his mind, the barriers, which he'd long ago erected to keep his heart isolated, collapsed. He saw his father, his mother, as flashes, but mostly he saw Asuka. Asuka yelling at him, Asuka synch training with him, Asuka getting out of the shower, Asuka stumbling into his bedroom, and falling asleep with him. Asuka pinching his nose, and planting a kiss on him that was NOTHING like this one. The memory of Misato's kiss was washed away by the flood of emotions accompanying this kiss with Asuka.
Asuka surrendered to the kiss, tasting him, savoring it, gently teasing him with the tip of her tongue. When he softly responded, she instructed him in the way she liked to be kissed the most, with gentle patience she explored him, as he did the same to her. He quickly caught on to her hints, and began to deepen the kiss, giving her much more than she'd bargained for. Asuka couldn't think, couldn't have formed a coherent thought if she'd wanted to. Shinji's passion was like the siren call of the ocean, and she was responding to its call as best she could. She'd never felt this way before, and didn't want it to end. If only this moment could last forever, she'd be complete. She felt heat rising in her body, and unfamiliar sensations swept over her. She knew that normally she'd have been very upset with him for this, but at this exact moment, everything was right with her world.
"Way to go SHINJI. WHOOOT!"
Shocked, the two of them snapped apart, Asuka pushing Shinji away from her, and they stood there, holding each other at arms length, and stared into each others eyes. Shinji's eyes were soft and gentle, looking at her like never before. Asuka's eyes reflected her surprise, as if a wild animal had just been caught in the open, and was trying to decided which way to run.
"Oh, that's classy Kensuke, just blow the whole mood, why don't you," Toji said, smacking his bespectacled friend in the back of the head.
Asuka looked from the two Stooges to Shinji, shock and surprise fighting a rising panic and fear on her features.
"Asuka..." Shinji began.
SMACK!
A bright red hand print appeared on the left side of Shinji's cheek.
"SHINJI YOU PERVERT! HOW DARE YOU! I CAN'T BELIVE YOU'D TAKE ADVANTAGE OF ME LIKE THAT! WELL NEVER AGAIN!" Asuka shouted. She pulled out of his grip, and stormed through the stunned crowd of onlookers, and out of the Reception Hall.
Shinji stood there stunned. Not quite understanding how what had happened could be so wrong. They had kissed, and it was quite possibly the most wonderful thing that had ever happened to him. Now she was upset with him again. How could that be? Didn't she know he was in love with her? Shinji felt his world begin to collapse around him, and everything was going gray and fuzzy at the edges of his vision.
"Ritsuko, catch him," Misato said, watching as Shinji swayed, and started to pass out.
Ritsuko grabbed Shinji, and, with help, hustled him into a side room.
Misato and Kaji supported the young man, while Ritsuko snapped open a small vial she'd had in her lapel. "Here Shinji, breath deep," she said, holding the smelling salts under his nose. She'd figured she'd need to use these on Misato or even Kaji, but not Shinji.
Shinji jerked, and shook on the chair, coming alert again.
"What? No! No, please, don't. DON'T LEAVE ME! AISHITERU!!" he shouted this last, and his friends could feel his fragile heart breaking. Misato restrained him from running off while he was still disoriented. Sinking forward in the chair, he suddenly clutched Misato fiercely. (translation: I love you)
"Why," he whispered, as the dam broke and his tears fell onto her shoulder.
"Oh Shinji, I'm so sorry. If I'd known it would end like this, I never would have had her be my Maid of Honor," Misato cried, holding the bereft young man.
Toji, Kensuke, and Hikari all looked at each other nervously, hurt by their friends obvious distress.
"We've got to find Asuka," Hikari said to the other two.
"Yeah," growled Toji, "She's either going to fix this or I'm gonna kill her."
Kensuke Aida was silent. If only he hadn't been such a smart ass, this might never have happened. He should have just kept his mouth shut and concentrated on his dancing.
"Come on," Hikari said, dragging the two boys behind her.
They quickly followed Asuka's wake out of the Hall, ignoring the whispering of the people around them.
Hikari glanced into the parking lot. "Asuka's BMW is gone," she noted.
"And look at those burn outs. I bet she laid seventy feet of rubber," Kensuke said, impressed.
"Come on, get in," Toji said, motioning them into his Toyota 4Runner. "Where do you think she'd go Hikari?"
"Try our house first," she said.
Toji gunned his accelerator, and dropped the car into Drive, the powerful SUV screaming out of the parking lot.
Next on Episode 2:07 of Neon Genesis Evangelion Asuka tries to hide from her own emotions, and does a better job of hiding from everyone else. Will her friends find her in time to prevent her from making a horrible mistake? Shinji will pay the price for Asuka's actions, but the charge may be more than his fragile young body can afford.
It's Evangelion Episode 2:07 Goodbye is never a good thing to say.
Episode 2:06 Dancing with an Angel.
Takes place after 1st season, and the End of Evangelion Movie.
Presumed date is Saturday June 11th, 2016
Shinji stood before the full-length mirror in the Grooms dressing room at the Temple, and looked at his reflection. The tuxedo was much more comfortable than anyone could have guessed by looking at the young man wearing it. Shinji turned a little to check out how it fit, wondering if the Tails that Misato had wanted them to wear would have looked better.
Kaji, however, had stood firm on that point, however, and chosen a uniquely elegant design. No ruffles, no cumber-bun, no silly looking bow ties. Instead they were wearing an elegantly tailored black suit, with white shirts and a red silk vest, printed with a paisley pattern.
"Don't admire yourself too much, Shinji, let the girls do that," Kaji commented, seeing Shinji looking at himself.
Shinji blushed, "Thanks Kaji, now I'm nervous again."
"So, got your speech all ready?"
"Yeah, I was working on it all last night. I think I've finally gotten the words down the way I want them," Shinji said, a knowing glint in his eyes. "Anyway, how soon are we supposed to be starting?"
"Any minute now. In fact, I'm surprised that we haven't seen Professor Fuyutsuki, yet. He should be here getting ready too."
"It's not like him to be late," Shinji commented.
"No it's not. I wonder. Could Misato have needed some last minute counseling about our wedding night?" Kaji said, winking at Shinji.
"Kaji. I'm 15 years old, and you've just scarred me for life, thank you for sharing that image with me," Shinji shuddered.
Kaji laughed. The boy, no, young man, was certainly growing up. A year ago Shinji would have looked at the ground, blushed, and apologized. Maybe that had something to do with a little tidbit of information that Misato had shared with him not long after they'd Awakened, and been picked up by Shinji.
"Oh, I don't know, I'd think that kiss Misato planted on you would have done more damage than anything I could ever say," Kaji said.
Shinji went pale, remembering the kiss like it was yesterday. Only the second real kiss he'd ever had, and he was very embarrassed about it.
"Kaji, I'm sorry, I..." he began, but faltered.
Kaji laughed, "Don't sweat it kid. Misato and I have no secrets. I just wanted you to know that I know, and that I'm not jealous in the least."
"Really Kaji, there's nothing to be jealous of. She didn't kiss me because she loved me, she kissed me to motivate me, and because she thought it was the last kindness she could do for me before she died," Shinji explained.
Kaji hesitated, wanting Shinji to continue, but not wanting to press. Since they'd all Awakened, most people had remembered bits and pieces of the scenes involving the last moments before Third Impact, but Shinji and Asuka could remember everything, since they were the focal point of the energy that was unleashed.
He knew today wasn't an appropriate day to discuss such things, but the young man looked like he needed someone to talk to desperately, and Kaji remembered is own awkward adolescence. He' not become the charmer he was until after Second Impact. He was about to ask Shinji to continue when there was a rap on the door.
"There's Fuyutsuki now," Kaji said, opening the door.
Professor Fuyutsuki, however was not the person standing there. Doctor Ritsuko Akagi was, not wearing her red gown, as had been planned, but an elegant black silk pant suit.
"Ritsuko? What..." Kaji began, before Ritsuko shushed him.
"Sorry, Kaji, but Misato requested this change at the last minute. My dress wasn't ready," she said, and both men knew she was lying. "So in order to keep me as part of the wedding party, she asked if I would be the one to lead the ceremony. Professor Fuyutsuki was a little upset, but after some quick explaining on Misato's part, he said that he understood. Misato found something else for him to do, anyway."
"Ah. Okay, well I guess that's alright then," said Kaji.
"Ready Shinji?" Ritsuko asked him.
"Sure. I mean, it's not like I'm the one getting married," Shinji said. "I still have the rest of my life to look forward too," he grinned.
"Keep it up Shinji, and you're going to be best man in a full body cast," Kaji said.
"If you two are quite through, I think we should avoid keeping everyone waiting," Ritsuko said, motioning them to exit the room, and head into the main part of the Temple.
The three of them walked down the aisle, and took their positions upon the steps, before a shrine decorated with several different sacred images from the world's religions. Shinji shuddered when he saw the cross, symbol of the crucifixion. He and Unit-01 had been crucified, and then pierced by the Lance of Longinus. His palms still bore the scars of the Stigmata. It was NOT an experience he enjoyed remembering.
Kensuke and Toji were sitting out in the audience, and talking softly, mostly to avoid annoying Hikari. Officially, this was a double date, Toji being here with Hikari, and Kensuke being here with her 13 year old sister, Nazomi, but Kensuke kept telling Suzuhara that the only reason he agreed to come with the younger Horaki, was that there was no way Hikari was gonna let him live it down if he DIDN'T take her little sister to the first Wedding since the Awakenings began.
"You know, I hadn't really noticed, but Ikari is taller than I remember him," Kensuke said.
"Yeah, I hear yah. Being out of it for six months means we've missed a lot of changes. I asked Shinji the other night while we were doing dishes, and he said that he's grown almost 4 inches since he woke up. He's also put on some muscle. You can see it through the Tux. Must be all that working out he's been doing as part of his training. I hear Misato's really been busting his butt on the NERV obstacle course."
"I can't wait. I'm supposed to start physical conditioning next month, as soon as Doctor Akagi says I'm released from light duty."
"Yeah, I'm anxious to get started too. I've been swimming laps in the pool, to try and build up some stamina. But what I really want to do is hit the weights like Shinji."
"Shhh, you guys, the ceremony is starting," Hikari shushed.
Elegantly soft music was being piped through the music system, and the crowd turned to watch the brides procession down the aisle. First came Nazomi, Hikari's sister, dressed in a white lace dress and a basket of fake rose petals. These she scattered across the floor in front of her, and preceded down the aisle until she was feet from Ritsuko, Kaji, and Shinji. She bowed to the three of them, and then moved off to the side, getting out of the way of all the adults.
The music picked up speed and increased in pomp, and the gathered crowd saw a vision in red taffeta make her way up the aisle. Asuka, clad in the gown that had been meant for Ritsuko, bore a bouquet of white flowers and babies breath before her. Blushing slightly she continued down the aisle in measured steps, coming to a stop opposite Shinji, and turning to look back at the entrance to the Temple.
The music shifted, and struck a serious and solemn chord as the wedding march begin. Misato walked around the corner, and into the Temple. She was escorted down the aisle by Professor Fuyutsuki himself.
'So that's why the sudden change,' Kaji thought. Then he beamed. Misato had never looked lovelier. Her face mostly hidden by the white veil she wore, and her figure shown off by the lace and silk of the dress she'd chosen. Eschewing a long train, and ball gown, she'd chosen a form fitting dress, with a simple hat and veil. In her hands, her bouquet of red and white roses were trembling slightly.
'Well what do you know,' thought Shinji, 'She's nervous. Go figure.' Shinji couldn't really understand why she was so nervous. After all she'd known Kaji for years, ever since college, and they'd been a couple on again and off again for nearly that long. Still it was somehow reassuring to know that this woman could be nervous.
As Misato approached the Alter, Shinji's gaze drifted back to Asuka. He was entranced. She was absolutely beautiful, standing there in that red dress. He shifted slightly as Kaji turned to face Ritsuko, holding Misato's hand in his. He was still staring at Asuka out of the corner of his eye when Kaji shook his shoulder.
"The RING," he whispered hoarsely.
"Oh yeah, right," Shinji said, recovering quickly, and reached into his vest pocket to retrieve the ring. He handed it to Kaji, and tried to pay attention to what Kaji and Ritsuko were saying, but he kept catching site of Asuka, and drifting off.
Finally he was brought back to reality when Ritsuko announced, in a loud voice, for all to hear, "I present to you Mister and Missus Ryoji." The crowd rose to their feet with thunderous applause, and the organist began playing music again. Kaji and Misato walked gracefully down the aisle, and were about to exit the Temple when he heard a hiss to his right.
"Shinji," Asuka whispered, "we're supposed to hold hands and follow them out, you idiot."
"Oh, yeah, right, sorry Asuka, I was just so happy." He held out his arm for her and she linked her left arm is his right, and together they strolled out into the reception hall.
Kaji and Misato were standing there in a passionate embrace, and Shinji had the urge to leave them like that, but Asuka cleared her throat. "You two. Really. Can't you wait until tonight, we have to get this reception under way."
Misato broke away from Kaji, smiling. "You're not still jealous, are you Asuka?"
"Of course not, I couldn't be happier right now. For you two that is," and she quickly removed her arm from Shinji's. She had been clasping his fingers with her own, and was feeling far to comfortable with the sensation.
The four of them lined up at the entrance to the reception hall, and, as the guests began to filter out of the Temple, greeted them, and welcomed them to the party. Music began to play, wine, champagne, and punch were brought out. A large multi-tiered cake was featured prominently at a central table, and there were smaller tables supporting snack trays and surrounded by chairs.
Shinji felt like his hand would fall off, by the time the last person drifted into the room. He'd shaken the hand of almost 400 people, and his own hand was very sore indeed. He flexed it unconsciously, harkening back to those days last year when he'd picked up the nervous tick. It hadn't reappeared since then, but now he did it as he tried to stretch his hands out.
Kaji and Misato were moving up to the table with the cake on it, and, after a few jerky slices, they'd freed a piece for each of them. Shinji knew what was coming, but enjoyed it anyway. Kaji, the caring gentleman, fed his bride a piece of cake daintily. Misato, the eternal prankster, smiled devilishly, and stuffed the whole piece in Kaji's face, covering him is icing. She then proceeded to wipe it off using Kaji's own red silk handkerchief. Drinks were passed out, and Shinji glanced down at his own. It was bubbling, but the faint scent let him know that it was definitely NOT champagne. Most likely bubbling apple cider of some kind, but he didn't care.
Standing up from his seat at the head table, he picked up a fork and tapped it against the crystal goblet he held.
"Can I have your attention please? Thank you." He took a deep breath and hurried on, hoping he didn't forget any of the carefully worked out toast. "I'd like to make a toast to Misato and Kaji. On this, your wedding day, you are surrounded by loved ones, and it is my duty to honor the occasion with special words. I have thought long and hard about the meaning of the vows you have just spoken before us gathered here today, and have decided to honor the two of you thusly."
Misato was blushing with pride, and Kaji's lips twitched up in a slight smile, almost a smirk, but not nearly as contemptuous. 'Well he's off to a good start,' Kaji thought.
Shinji continued, clearing his throat and taking a breath. "When I look upon the two of you I see not two people, but a couple. While this sounds plain to some, this word denotes special meaning to those who recognize it. No longer are you to be thought of as two single souls, vulnerable and adrift within the world. Instead you are the anchor, upon which others will come to depend, as they need your strength and guidance. You are the grassy field, upon which a family will one day be brought forth. And finally, you are two pieces of a much larger puzzle. While you share things with many other individuals, you are never more at peace than when you are together, each of you complimenting the other, and adding together to make something greater than simple sum of your two parts. When I see Kaji standing there, and Misato next to him, I know that if he ever falters or despairs, Misato will be there for him. And as I see Misato, I know that when her fears disturb her dreams, and problems plague her days, Kaji will be there to succor and support her through those times. I can only hope that when my times comes, I may find someone who compliments me as well as the two of you compliment each other. Kaji. Misato. KAMPAI!"
With this final shout Shinji lifted his glass into the air, brought it down, and drained it in one swift motion.
A brief pause, followed by shouts of KAMPAI and cheers followed Shinji's actions. Around him, Shinji's closest friends, Misato, Kaji, Ritsuko, and Professor Fuyutsuki all stared, open mouthed and in shock. Kaji and Misato rushed towards him, hugging him and clapping him on the back.
"Shinji that was wonderful, I haven't ever heard a better wedding toast, thank you," Misato cried.
"My pleasure Misato. Now please stop crying, you're going to ruin your makeup."
"I don't care about my makeup you lunk, I'm crying because I'm happy and proud."
Shinji blushed, not used to the compliment. "Uh, thanks Misato, I'm just happy that you liked it."
"Well what do you know, one of the three stooges might actually have some class," Asuka said. Shinji's blush deepened, but now instead of quiet pride and embarrassment, he felt very self-aware and awkward. 'Now what did I say THAT for,' she thought, 'He was really sweet and thoughtful, and I had to go and make him feel bad.'
Hugging Shinji firmly, and proudly, Kaji glanced at Asuka's snide remark. 'Still have to be the center of attention eh Asuka; no matter the cost? I hope you don't end up pushing him away. I have a feeling you'd never forgive yourself,' he thought.
Kaji released Shinji and turned to wave at the band, who played an instrumental version of his and Misato's favorite song. Slowed down, and on acoustics, instead of at blazing speed, and with electric guitars, it was actually a very romantic song.
Shinji noticed the two of them drifting out onto the dance floor, and watched as they swayed, in time to the beat, around the room. That was his signal. When this song ended the wedding party would join the couple on the dance floor, and would gradually be joined by the remaining crowd. He turned and looked for Ritsuko, figuring that he would still be sharing this dance with her.
"Oh no Shinji, I performed the ceremony. You have to dance with the Maid of Honor," she said.
"But that means..." Shinji gulped. 'Asuka and I have to dance,' he finished silently.
He turned around and noticed Asuka standing behind him, straightening out her dress. She looked up at him. "Well Shinji?"
"Asuka, we have to, I mean, that is." 'Okay, pause, take a breath, relax, she's probably nervous too. Yeah right, look at her, she's absolutely beautiful. So calm, so relaxed, so poised.' Shinji cleared his throat, "Ahem. Asuka, would you like to dance?" he asked softly.
"Well it IS tradition," she said smugly, and grabbed Shinji's hand, leading him onto the dance floor as the music died away. Another slow, sonorous song began, and Shinji stepped in close to Asuka, taking her left hand in his right, and wrapping his left arm around her waist, pulling her even closer.
"Step on my toes and die, Shinji," she whispered to him. Shinji smiled down at her, "Deal. Same goes for you Asuka." 'At least I'll die happy,' he thought savoring the feel of her body pressed up against his.
'Hey, wait a minute,' she thought furiously, 'since when have I ever had to look UP to Shinji. I'm taller than he is. Aren't I?' She carefully examined her memory and realized that Shinji must have gone through a grown spurt sometime since their awakening, and was now almost four inches taller than her. The problem was he was always slouching, so she couldn't tell he'd gotten taller. Now, with the Tux on, he was forcing himself to his full height, and Asuka estimated that he was now at least two inches taller than her.
'Wow, he's tall AND he's got muscles,' she thought, running her right arm up Shinji's back, as they swayed around the floor, carefully examining his improving build. 'No longer the skinny little boy I used to bully around the apartment.'
"When did you get taller than me?" She asked him.
"Oh, must have been just recently. I've grown a lot the last couple months, and my balance is all messed up. So don't rock the boat too much, or I might end up falling over," he replied.
"Well you need to stand up straight more often. Quit slouching, it's bad for you," she scolded.
"Yes, Asuka..."'-chan,' the finished mentally.
Ritsuko and Professor Fuyutsuki had joined the dancers on the floor, and were motioning for others to join them. As the crowd gathered, Fuyutsuki glanced over Doctor Akagi's shoulder at the two former EVA pilots. "Am I right in assuming that this is the REAL reason I had to walk Misato down the aisle, and YOU performed the ceremony?"
"Why Professor, are you accusing me of setting this situation up?" Ritsuko turned her head away, faking a blush.
"Why, yes, I believe I am."
"Very well then, the answer is yes. We set this whole thing up to get Shinji and Asuka together. Somehow they just seem to fit well, but the two of them don't seem to realize it yet. After last nights dancing lesson with Shinji, I realized that I might be able to help those two make some headway. And it looks like all of mine and Misato's planning is about to pay off. Look." She pointed back to the subjects of their conversation.
Shinji and Asuka were still dancing, but no longer seemed aware of the music, or anyone else for that matter. Shinji had now wrapped both of his arms around Asuka's waist , while Asuka's arms were draped over his, palms resting on his shoulders as they swayed to some unheard beat. Their faces were very close together, and they were gazing into each other's eyes.
"Kaji look," Misato whispered, nudging her husband, and indicating the two oblivious dancers.
"Mmm, remind you of anyone we know?" he asked playfully, leaning in close to kiss her.
"Kaji... If I miss this after all the hard work Ritsuko and I have done setting this up, you are a dead man."
"WHOA!" Kaji whisper back, shocked. "No need to get violent Misato."
"I'm sorry love, you just don't understand everything. Those two have been so hurt by their parents, that they've built these huge walls between themselves and the rest of the world. Somehow, while they lived together with me, they managed to open up to each other, even if just a little bit. I look on the two of them as my children, and like every good mother, I want my children to be happy, and not miserable little hedgehogs."
"I think I see what you're getting at, but if Shinji doesn't take his shot soon, I'm going to miss out on some very serious kissing that I could be doing with my wife," Kaji leered.
"Oh you," she smiled, and gave him a quick peck on the lips. They were still dancing, but had slowed below the pace of the song, that was coming to an end, and were paying more attention to the young couple not five feet away.
Shinji continued to gaze down at Asuka, his breath coming is fits and spurts. He could feel her warm breath, equally as fast, on his neck, as she gazed back up at him. He breathed in deeply, inhaling her scent. This was more intoxicating than that time he'd gotten hold of some of Misato's beer and decided to see what was so special about getting drunk. Now, he was drunk with the scent of Asuka, and he doubted if he'd ever find an equal high from mere alcohol.
Shinji suddenly felt the need to lean closer to her, almost like he wanted to become one with her, not repeating the closeness Instrumentality, but desiring a different kind of closeness. Both of them had stopped dancing, or even moving, but neither of them seemed to notice. As Shinji leaned in closer to her, Asuka tilted her head back, closed her eyes and parted her lips. Shinji, in turn, opened his lips slightly and leaned in to Asuka, closing his eyes lightly as well.
Their lips touched, and the rest of the world vanished.
Asuka's hands slipped up behind Shinji's head, pulling him deeply into the kiss that she so longed for.
Shinji answered her passion, shifting his arms so that he now gripped the back of her shoulders, and could crush her softly against him. Somewhere in some small corner of his mind, the barriers, which he'd long ago erected to keep his heart isolated, collapsed. He saw his father, his mother, as flashes, but mostly he saw Asuka. Asuka yelling at him, Asuka synch training with him, Asuka getting out of the shower, Asuka stumbling into his bedroom, and falling asleep with him. Asuka pinching his nose, and planting a kiss on him that was NOTHING like this one. The memory of Misato's kiss was washed away by the flood of emotions accompanying this kiss with Asuka.
Asuka surrendered to the kiss, tasting him, savoring it, gently teasing him with the tip of her tongue. When he softly responded, she instructed him in the way she liked to be kissed the most, with gentle patience she explored him, as he did the same to her. He quickly caught on to her hints, and began to deepen the kiss, giving her much more than she'd bargained for. Asuka couldn't think, couldn't have formed a coherent thought if she'd wanted to. Shinji's passion was like the siren call of the ocean, and she was responding to its call as best she could. She'd never felt this way before, and didn't want it to end. If only this moment could last forever, she'd be complete. She felt heat rising in her body, and unfamiliar sensations swept over her. She knew that normally she'd have been very upset with him for this, but at this exact moment, everything was right with her world.
"Way to go SHINJI. WHOOOT!"
Shocked, the two of them snapped apart, Asuka pushing Shinji away from her, and they stood there, holding each other at arms length, and stared into each others eyes. Shinji's eyes were soft and gentle, looking at her like never before. Asuka's eyes reflected her surprise, as if a wild animal had just been caught in the open, and was trying to decided which way to run.
"Oh, that's classy Kensuke, just blow the whole mood, why don't you," Toji said, smacking his bespectacled friend in the back of the head.
Asuka looked from the two Stooges to Shinji, shock and surprise fighting a rising panic and fear on her features.
"Asuka..." Shinji began.
SMACK!
A bright red hand print appeared on the left side of Shinji's cheek.
"SHINJI YOU PERVERT! HOW DARE YOU! I CAN'T BELIVE YOU'D TAKE ADVANTAGE OF ME LIKE THAT! WELL NEVER AGAIN!" Asuka shouted. She pulled out of his grip, and stormed through the stunned crowd of onlookers, and out of the Reception Hall.
Shinji stood there stunned. Not quite understanding how what had happened could be so wrong. They had kissed, and it was quite possibly the most wonderful thing that had ever happened to him. Now she was upset with him again. How could that be? Didn't she know he was in love with her? Shinji felt his world begin to collapse around him, and everything was going gray and fuzzy at the edges of his vision.
"Ritsuko, catch him," Misato said, watching as Shinji swayed, and started to pass out.
Ritsuko grabbed Shinji, and, with help, hustled him into a side room.
Misato and Kaji supported the young man, while Ritsuko snapped open a small vial she'd had in her lapel. "Here Shinji, breath deep," she said, holding the smelling salts under his nose. She'd figured she'd need to use these on Misato or even Kaji, but not Shinji.
Shinji jerked, and shook on the chair, coming alert again.
"What? No! No, please, don't. DON'T LEAVE ME! AISHITERU!!" he shouted this last, and his friends could feel his fragile heart breaking. Misato restrained him from running off while he was still disoriented. Sinking forward in the chair, he suddenly clutched Misato fiercely. (translation: I love you)
"Why," he whispered, as the dam broke and his tears fell onto her shoulder.
"Oh Shinji, I'm so sorry. If I'd known it would end like this, I never would have had her be my Maid of Honor," Misato cried, holding the bereft young man.
Toji, Kensuke, and Hikari all looked at each other nervously, hurt by their friends obvious distress.
"We've got to find Asuka," Hikari said to the other two.
"Yeah," growled Toji, "She's either going to fix this or I'm gonna kill her."
Kensuke Aida was silent. If only he hadn't been such a smart ass, this might never have happened. He should have just kept his mouth shut and concentrated on his dancing.
"Come on," Hikari said, dragging the two boys behind her.
They quickly followed Asuka's wake out of the Hall, ignoring the whispering of the people around them.
Hikari glanced into the parking lot. "Asuka's BMW is gone," she noted.
"And look at those burn outs. I bet she laid seventy feet of rubber," Kensuke said, impressed.
"Come on, get in," Toji said, motioning them into his Toyota 4Runner. "Where do you think she'd go Hikari?"
"Try our house first," she said.
Toji gunned his accelerator, and dropped the car into Drive, the powerful SUV screaming out of the parking lot.
Next on Episode 2:07 of Neon Genesis Evangelion Asuka tries to hide from her own emotions, and does a better job of hiding from everyone else. Will her friends find her in time to prevent her from making a horrible mistake? Shinji will pay the price for Asuka's actions, but the charge may be more than his fragile young body can afford.
It's Evangelion Episode 2:07 Goodbye is never a good thing to say.