Hearts & Minds V2

by Bizmarck

Deep character analysis with a fun and intriguing plot, combat extraordinaire, trippy Evangelion style climax to make you think, and a well rounded 'what happens next'. Sure to please most fans… Enjoy! An epic continuation.

4. Chapter 4

Chapter 1: Spring Thaw

I don't own Neon Genesis Evangelion, its just a fan-fiction, read and enjoy.

Some feedback to my reviewers: (thanks!)

Blackangel32076: Thanks for the complement, I have tried hard to develop the relationships naturally, plenty of twists and turns left, hope you like it.

Dennisud: I spent a long time on Gendos dynamics, your recognition is appreciated. As for the question on Asuka that will be answered this chapter.

1.4 Deja-vu

Authors note:

Time for some action! The continued plot and character developments should keep this section fun and interesting!

Down in the change rooms a NERV staff member came racing in to inform Shinji and Rei of their deployment. Taking off the headphones they nodded, both quickly running off towards the holding pens. Just before they split up to go to their respective Evas, Shinji stopped Rei by grabbing her hand, turning her towards him and giving her a quick hug.

"Good luck Ayanami" he said, holding her shoulders.

"I will see you soon" she replied with a smile, and with that the two parted. Shinji's entry plug descended into unit 01, and soon he was surrounded by the operational screens he was used to. Shinji, sitting in the cockpit of his Eva, looked down to see Rei's and Misato's faces appeared on the left of his screen, and a tactical map appear in front of him. Shinji was momentarily distracted, the sounds of combat could be heard in the distance, even from this deep underground. On the tactical map Shinji could see a lot of red units shown as triangles slowly pushing back the much smaller number of blue units still left on the screen. The northern battlefront was almost at NERV HQ with inroads into the underground passages already being made. The western fronts were pulling back steadily, heading back to what looked to be a small hill just west of NERV HQ, isolated in the mountains. The southern front looked bad, the largest grouping of NERV forces that were still on the surface had been trapped in a small town nestled in a ridge of a valley. Surrounding U.N forces were slowly moving in, they were only a few 100m from a NERV entry point on the other side of the Valley. But judging by the map this was across open terrain, and U.N heavy units were on a nearby hill covering the clearing.

"Shinji, Rei" came the voice of Misato.

"Yes Misato." replied Shinji, looking up from his tactical map.

"Listen up, here is the plan." she said serious and direct. "Firstly we are going to launch a counter attack on our southern flank to save our trapped forces there. And hopefully slow those U.N Forces down."

The appropriate prompts and Icons appeared on the tactical screen.

"Rei you will provide covering fire from position point A"

A dot appeared on a ridge just north of the trapped forces.

"Your priority is to keep the skies free for Shinji and our forces" continued Misato, Rei nodded

"Shinji you are to provide close support for our men on the ground, and I also need you to knock out some bridges and roads leading into the valley. You will be given air cover by our remaining aircraft, so Rei be careful at what your shooting at."

Both pilots nodded again.

"This is a surprise attack and you will both be exposed, be careful of your cables, they will target that as soon as you appear, hopefully this will all be over in ten or so minutes, any questions?" Misato finished up, crossing her arms, she waited for any questions, using the time to look down at the map. Both pilots nodded and Misato wasted no more time, turning to Ritsuko she shouted. "Deploy!"

The two Evangelions shot up from their holding pens, speeding off through the maze of tunnels to their first deployment. On the way Misato continued the brief. Shinji ignoring the scenery flying by his Eva to concentrate on the tactical information. Misato said that after they were finished with their objectives, they were to re-enter the access point and close it behind them. They were then to make their way across to access shaft 4 redeploying to defend communication centre 4.6, until the situation became hopeless, or new orders were given. Shinji and Rei were quickly briefed on their weapons and objectives and before they knew it their sliding rails shot out of the tunnel into a small holding area. Small, in terms that it barely contained the standing Evangelions, however given their size, the actual excavation itself was massive, the opening doors at one end appeared, from the outside, like the entire side of the hill was moving. The pilots' actual location was immediately north of the combat area, about ten kilometres away. The two Evas moved out quickly, grabbing their umbilical cords and plugging themselves in. Weapons casing springing up from either side of the entry chamber giving both Eva pilots assault rifles, Shinji also got a multiple rocket launcher and Rei a sniper rifle.

Down in the control room Misato was fidgeting, eying the camera that showed both units plugging-in their umbilical cords.

"Are you seriously telling me we had to watch that thing eat the angel's S2 engine, and now we can't even get power from it?" Misato asked in an annoyed tone.

"I told you already, it wasn't exactly a controlled installation." replied Ritsuko, watching her screens carefully. "Who knows, maybe when the Eva wants it can take power from it, but nothing we have done so far shows we can control it" she continued.

"I sware I feel sometimes that the Eva's are fighting us harder then the angles used to." said Misato darkly.

"Anyway the commander gave specific instructions not to try and activate the S2 engine or the dummy plug in unit 01" offered Maya, from next to Ritsuko.

"At least there's something we can all agree on" replied Misato. "I have more faith in the commander already" she added, Ritsuko smiling at her friend's last comment.

Back outside both Eva's picked up their weapons, one in each hand, Unit 01 turning to face Rei, nodding in a silent well wish. Turning back he scanned the horizon, Shinji's expression turned to one of grim determination, and he started to run towards the battle, still far off.

Rei's Eva, unit 00, turned, quickly scaling the hill they had just emerged from. Reaching the top she placed the assault rifle down beside her. Leaning down she positioned herself to steady the sniper rifle on the hill in a half-prone position. Preparing herself she sighted-up, scanning the horizon she could see Shinji running down the valley, umbilical cord trailing behind.

"Rei our fighters are coming overhead to protect Shinjis cable, be careful what you fire at" came Misato voice, suddenly over the intercom.

"Yes Ma'm" said Rei, and she started to scan for targets.

Just then 5 NERV fighting aircraft screamed low over Rei's Eva, heading fast after Shinji who was kneeling behind a ridge in a bend of the valley.

Taking a glimpse down at the combat area, Shinji saw a decidedly one sided affair, The small town he had seen on his tactical map was in ruins, crumbling under a withering fire of U.N armour and heavy weapons, only occasionally was there a shot returned. U.N infantry were starting to move in, firing at anything that moved.

"So, not being gracious with you superior firepower are we?" said Shinji through clenched teeth, his hands clenching and unclenching by his side for the first time since his battle with Kaworu. Through his displays he could see multiple dead bodies laying on the road into town, many NERV personnel, but also some civilians.

"You bastards!" spat Shinji, his hands finally clenching into a fist. Using the attached strap Shinji placed the rocket launcher over his shoulder and grabbed the assault riffle with both hands, springing into action.

The Eva was an awesome sight as it raced around the corner, massive plumes of water and earth shot up from its feet as it raced through the rice paddies, gun raised. Shinji aimed at a row of tanks that had formed to bombard the town. He fired a sustained burst, and even though the shots had not been properly aimed the sheer volume and size of the rounds fired tore the entire hillside to pieces, those vehicles not being hit directly were flung around by the explosions like toys.

The surviving armour scurried in every direction, their gunners now firing madly at the approaching Eva. Shinji closed on the town quickly ignoring the incoming fire, his cable was after all still behind him. Stopping next to the town he took aim at some more armoured concentrations just behind the next bend. All U.N forces were scattering before him, firing as they went. Shinji's second burst was as deadly as the first, switching to 3 burst mode Shinji started to fire at individual units as well as hurry the fleeing infantry on, Finally the rifle went click and he knew it was empty. He placed the gun down next to the town, creating a sort of barrier for the NERV personnel and remaining civilians in the town to make it to the access shaft.

Having received Misato's orders over their own communications links the surviving units, the number of which was a surprise to Shinji given the towns level of destruction, started to move across the clearing to the access shaft, Unit 01 effectively shielding them from a lot of the heavy fire. Misato ordered the planes to strafe the opposite hill to protect the fleeing troops as Shinji deployed his AT field to deflect a wider angle of fire. The U.N Forces were still in disarray though their level of fire was still up, the opposite hill was effectively silenced by the air run as massive explosions ran along the length of the hill.

Misato gave Shinji orders to move on to his next objectives. Shinji turned to see that most of the people had already evacuated, the last remaining units & civilians just reaching the access shaft, the last person in waving up at Shinji before closing the hatch behind him.

Lowering his AT field he made his way up to the opposite ridge taking the rocket launcher off of his back as he did. The remaining U.N infantry scrambled to get out of the way as the massive Eva's hands and feet made their way up the hillside. Reaching the top the Eva stood up to observe its surroundings, from his perch Shinji could see the three major roads that lead into the mountainous area of Nerve HQ. As there were many valleys and rivers all three routs had bridges and tunnels on their way into the mountains.

The U.N forces further back, informed of their colleague's fate just up the valley, were prepared for the Eva's appearance. They had spread themselves evenly over the entire area, and awaited the arrival of the Eva, commenced a withering fire on site. The units targeted the rocket launcher, the ground around the Eva's Feet and the Eva's head with high explosive rounds. Inside the cockpit of unit 01 Shinji's world turned bright orange, as he used his hands to shield the rocket launcher and cable, Eva 01 armour managed to absorb the initial barrage. Shinji waited for a lull in the fire before bringing the rocket launcher up to his shoulder, aiming quickly he fired two bursts at a bridge and tunnel, both located about three kilometres away. Though the shot was hurried the explosive power of the rocket was enough to effectively demolish both targets, blocking off two roads. Shinji turned to target the third objective, a large bridge about 4km away. However just before he could line up the target and pull the trigger the UN heavy Rocket launchers all simultaneously targeted the ground at Shinji's feet, the impact of the massive barrage effectively disintegrating part of the hill. Shinji gave out a yell as his Eva lost balance, falling awkwardly into the valley just adjacent of the one he had been fighting from, Power cable being pulled down behind him.

Misato and Rei let out similar gasps of horror as Shinji's Eva disappeared into a large cloud of dust. Rei reacted quickly, grabbing the assault riffle and standing up. To far away to close the distance Rei quickly set about calculating the trajectory for an effective bombardment.

Seeing what Rei was planning, from her observation of her on-board system, Misato instinctively ordered the protecting fighters to fall back.

Rei, hearing the command to the fighters, completed her calculations and aimed the rifle into the air. Firing off one continuous burst, the shots streaked into the sky, arcing gracefully before started their downward journey onto the battlefield.

The U.N forces were re-positioning themselves to fire on the downed Eva's cable when Rei's fire came in. Rei's bombardment impacted, knocking out a couple of units but more importantly throwing massive amount of dust and dabree into the air, and generally placing the U.N units under stress and confusion. The situation calmed down a bit from the massive impact only moments before, both sides trying to recover from their respective bad situations. Surrounded by dust, the view from Shinji's Eva was significantly quieter then moments before. Rei's and Misato's screen came back on-line in Shinji's Eva.

"Are you O.K Shinji?" asked Rei concerned.

"Yah no problem" said Shinji. Eva 01 slowly got back up, the dust cloud still thick around it. Shinji looked around, attempting to pear through the thick smoke and dust. Spotting the rocked launcher laying a little way off. He walked over to pick it up.

"You'll have to go up the next rise Shinji, the slope you were just on is now too unstable" came Misato's voice over the intercom.

"O.K" said Shinji, making his way up the next rise.

"Where is their air-power?" asked Shinji on his way up, dust still thick around him.

"I don't know" said Misato a little concerned, she had expected them much earlier. Worried she glanced over the tactical map. The situation was looking bad enough with the enemy units that were already there, but Misato knew there still was a large part of the enemy air force they had not committed yet. Shinji made his way up the hill, his Eva emerging at the top. The top half of his Eva managed to break through the dust cloud, which was now seemingly just hovering, relatively stationary. Bringing the rocket launcher to bare he lined up the final bridge, pulling the trigger he confidently fired off one round, the projectile streaked off to its target. Taking a full 5 seconds to reach the target, the rocket exploded, obliterating it utterly.

"Well done" came Misato voice over Shinji's comm "That will stall the southern front for some time. Shinji make your way back to the shaft, we have to get the two of you over to the communications centre."

Shinji turned to head back when he suddenly froze. From his vantage point perched on top of the hill he could see a very large group of aircraft moving in to cut off his line of retreat.

"The cable" side Misato and Shinji simultaneously. Shinji was now a long way from the entrance. From where he was he could just see unit 00 quite far off in the distance. Shinji reacted quickly, lifting the rocket launcher he fired off the last two rounds back down the valley, impacting next to his cable and throwing massive amounts of dust, dirt and smoke into the air. Dropping the empty launcher, he dove back into the dust cloud, sliding back down the valley sides.

"Retract cable!" yelled Ritsuko in the control room. Misato drew out the intercept point of the U.N fighters on the map.

"All air units move to protect the cable at points E7 on your grid! Hold out as long as you can!" she commanded.

"Yes Ma'm" came the reply. The NERV aircraft shot off from their holding position. They crossed the rise just as the U.N fighters crossed the opposite rise. Due to its quick retraction, the Eva's cable could be seen moving around erratically on the valley floor. Both sides opened fire on each other, all planes manoeuvring frantically to avoid each others volleys, countermeasures filled the air as the sky filled with missiles and bullets. Two NERV aircraft fell soon after the opening engagement the other three manoeuvring frantically to the sides. Two U.N planes were also hit, a third suddenly exploded. Shocked, the U.N pilots looked up to see the smoke trail of a tracer, following it back they could just make out the prone figure of unit 00 behind the snipper riffle. Another aircraft exploded and the survivors dove into the valley to take cover. The three NERV aircraft were now in full retreat backing off frantically down the valley. Suddenly Shinji's voice came over the pilot's intercom, telling them to retreat to the communications centre immediately.

Gratefully, and not even waiting for Misato's approval, the NERV pilots turned their aircraft and darted over the hills. A following U.N craft being brought down by Rei. The remaining U.N aircraft in the valley tried to right themselves from their sudden dive and struggled to line themselves up for a shot at the thrashing cable. Before they could fire however Shinji appeared from the dust cloud, they could see the massive form of his Eva sprinting down the valley, retracting cable in one hand. The cable was almost taut as he was matching speed with the retreating length. Still running Shinji gave the cable a flick, sending a massive kink travelling down its moving length, then he followed up by a massive jerk to one side. The kink travelled fast down the cables length reaching the UN forces just as they opened fire, the cable actually hit one of the aircraft while the others swerved violently to avoid the thrashing mass. This was followed by the massive jerk in the line which wiped it violently into the hillside, the U.N aircraft were manoeuvring frantically to avoid it, not wanting to get above the valley for fear of Rei's sniping. Though the sight of the Massive Eva bearing down on them fast made the thought of Rei's firing less threatening. All turned to retreat, the first U.N aircraft back above the Valley being brought down by the deadly fire of Rei, Another aircraft was too slow, being caught by Shinji and flung into the valley floor. The remaining aircraft dashed over and away. Shinji started to clamber up the valley wall, attempting to get back to the valley he had started in. He managed to make it over, getting his first clear view of the entrance, though it was still a minute or two away.

Red lights appeared on Misato's screen and she was prompted to 3 small triangles coming in from the west.

"Rei!" yelled Misato "get back to the entrance of the shaft and raise your AT field! They're going to try and block it off before Shinji gets back!"

Rei sprung into action, sliding down the side of the hill roughly.

Misato could see on her screen that the bombers had released their massive missiles and had turned away, anxiously she looked on.

Rei continued to slide down the hill coming to rest just near the entrance, she quickly ran in front of it, bringing the two hands of her Eva together to raise her AT field. The hexagonal field came up just as the three missiles cleared the last rise and bore down on the entrance.

Shinji, running, could see all this ahead of him and had to shield his eyes from the light of the impact. The simultaneous explosion off all three missiles was massive, Rei straining to hold her position.

The intense light passed, opening her eyes Rei could see that all of the ground in front and around Eva 00 was massively scared, Shinji's cable now being well and truly cut. A massive gully had been formed in front of the entrance.

Shinji, seeing this, sped up. Reaching the significantly sized gully he leaped over the final obstacle, flying gracefully through the air. There was however no place to land, unit 00 occupied the solid ground in front of the entrance and there was no room for anyone ells. Still flying Shinji flung is arms wide, grabbing hold of Rei before violently crashing into her. Unit 01's momentum carried the two of them tumbling into the entrance chamber, then onwards down the shaft. Behind the two rolling Eva's another missile slammed into the top of the entrance chamber, collapsing it, and effectively sealing the entrance behind them. The two Eva's slid some ways down the shaft before finally coming to a stop, Unit 01 lying awkwardly on top of Unit 00.

Both pilots lay there, panting for a second, their only distraction being the red light of the battery countdown sequence, which had started as soon as both their cables were cut. Shinji and Rei looked at each other for a second. Shinji gave Rei a weak grin, suddenly Misato reappeared on screen, she did not look happy.

"You'll have enough time for that later you two. Now make your way back down the shaft to transit point D3, there you will find extra battery packs, that should give you enough power to get to the communications centre. You'll have to manually make your way through cross shaft 17 to get there, but once there you can re-plug in." Misato finished. Shinji gave Rei a wink and helped her Eva up into a crouching position.

"Lets go my guardian angel" said Shinji. Rei gave him a smile and both made their way down the shaft.

Meanwhile in the control room things were not looking so good. The northern front had collapsed and U.N forces controlled most of the surface of the geo-front, and were making in-rows onto the catacombs.

"It's a good thing we put Asuka and unit 02 in the bottom of the lake," said Ritsuko, she could see that enemy commandos had broke into the holding pens.

"Ya" Replied Misato, looking across at a screen showing Asuka huddled in her entry plug. The U.N forces in the geo-front however had spotted the hiding Eva, and missile launchers trained their turrets, launching a volley of depth chargers into the lake.

The canisters floated down softly, impacting violently around the still Eva. Inside the sunken unit 02, Asuka cringed at the shock waves.

Inside Eva unit 02 only the low rumbling of the depth charges could be heard. Amidst the rumbling of the depth charges however a very quiet voice was audible.

"I don't want to die" said Asuka, quietly but quickly.

"I don't want to die" again it could be heard.

"I don't want to die"

More depth charges impacted on the Eva's surface

"I don't want to die" came the louder call.

"I don't want to die!" Asuka repeated.

High above Tokyo 3 a high altitude bomber glimmered in the sun. Flying almost effortlessly at this altitude the giant plane appeared to lazily open its bomb-bay.

From far below a small dot could be seen being released from the speck that was the bomber, the bomb making its way downwards, falling gracefully without a sound towards the surface.

From far away it was an awesome sight, the N2 mine impacted, making a light brighter then the sun. Back inside NERV, everyone held on as the ground shook and trembled.

Explosion finally over it could be seen that the N2 mine had torn a perfect circle into the roof of the geo-front, exposing it to the outside world for the first time. Even before anyone had time to recover from the initial shock of the now open roof a massive missile barrage entered in through the newly opened hole, again causing the earth to shake with the shear volume of explosions.

Back in unit 02 all this activity had been heard as continuous rumbling, having repeated her previous lines through the ordeal, Asuka finished up by raising her head, eyes defiant, to scream out one more time.

"I don't want to die!"

Immediately after Asuka's triumphant call to the world, Eva unit 02 went fully active.

Back in the control room all were still coming to grips with the last barrage when they noticed that unit 02 had gone active. They watched in amazement as unit 02 rose from the lake, a NERVE destroyer lifted above its head. Misato cringed as she saw a missile barrage come in and impact on the destroyer. The NERV staff watched as unit 02 threw the entire destroyer at the shore, it landing on the offending missile launchers. Huge explosions rocked the shoreline. Asuka, on an adrenalins high, was non responsive to Misato's calls, yelling to herself at the top of her lungs, as UN aircraft came in to engage the new threat.

Asuka appeared to be going berserk, deploying her AT field and engaging the aircraft in hand to hand combat, impressively taking them all out with her wild attacking.

In the command room Gendo listened to her swear in German, watching on the screen as she tore apart her attackers. She wasn't however paying attention to the overall tactical picture, and soon the ground forces managed to cut her umbilical power cord. The Eva froze for a few seconds, then, looked up.

Misato finally looked at the tactical control map, not having been able to look down in all the excitement. Her mouth dropped.

"Commander!" she yelled, not believing her eyes.

"There are… 12….. Eva's" she finally stated. Fear and disbelief causing her to stutter "Circling unit two" she finished, still sounding totally shocked.

"Unit 02 only has 4 minutes of power left!" Ritsuko shouted, bringing Misato back to her senses. Commander Ikari however, was not fazed, he was as cool as always.

"Tell unit 00 to go on to the command centre, unit 01 is to return to support Asuka" he said evenly.

"But that's still 12 against 2" Misato protested.

"Do you not have faith in our pilots" asked Gendo evenly. Misato gave him a scowl, turning back to the control panels.

Misato immediately relayed the information to Shinji and Rei. Who were both shocked to hear the news.

"Asuka's O.K.?" asked Shinji, shock and happiness in his voice.

"She soon won't be if you don't get back here" came Misato's serious reply "She's lost her umbilical cord, she only has 4 minutes left". Shinji looked up at Rei who was ahead of him, unwilling to leave her, but anxious to go.

"I will be fine, she needs you" said Rei, giving him a reassuring smile. Shinji and his Eva nodded, and with that he released his grip and started to slide back down the access shaft, back down to the geo-front.

They had almost been at the entry point and Rei entered the underground holding area next to the above ground communications centre. Grabbing a rifle and plugging herself in, she emerged from the access shaft just under the communications centre.

The scene was quite simply amazing, NERV forces had concentrated on this one hill, pulling together a surprising amount of heavy weaponry and armour. The initial attacks had been totally repulsed but now with the entire front secured the U.N had brought in a lot of heavy weaponry into this remote location. There was an intense firefight going on, with tracers flying in all conceivable directions. The last NERV line of defence was seriously battered and the embattled troops gave a cheer at the sight of the Eva. The communications station had not been directly targeted but looked pretty battered anyway, a number of temporary communications units were stationed around the hill, the engineers trying frantically to maintain a line of communication. The U.N attack faltered at the sight of the Eva and fire was redirected at the large robot. Rei, her expression turning to grim determination, stepped out into the fray.

Meanwhile back down in the geo-front, Asuka calculated exactly how much time she had to kill each of the enemy Evangelions. The 12 Evangelions had landed, their wings folding together and the glider packs disengaged from their backs, they were slightly smaller then the NERV Evas. Not appearing to be armoured, they looked more like massive animals then robots, a mark like a large hideous smile on their longish heads, making them look like decidedly unpleasant creatures. By their deliberate movements it was quickly apparent that these units were unmanned, the stiff clinical nature of the dummy plug showing through, each one carried a large double bladed weapon shining menacingly in the sun.

Asuka did not waste any time, she sprang into action, screaming obscenities as she raced around tearing the attacking unmanned Evangelions (UM Evas) apart. Her manoeuvres were awe inspiring as she utilised all of her impressive combat skills to completely outclass her opponents. They started dropping like flies, number five down. Then six. Then seven! She closed on another group, impaling one UM unit with its own weapon, twenty five seconds left, she closed on the last two, taking one apart with a few swift moves, and finished with a decisive blow to impale the last standing unit, just as her power failed.

Unit 02 shutting down around her, Asuka physically slumped in her seat, exhausted with her efforts, but still a massive smile on her face.

"I didn't even need your help Shinji." she said in a somewhat mocking tone.

Back in the command centre, all were still marvelling at her success when suddenly Ritsuko shouted out.

"Their still moving!" she exclaimed.

Sure enough, all around Asuka the "corpses" of the slain UM Evas began to move, seemingly magically healing themselves of their sickening wounds. The more heavily injured ones, Misato observing from the command centre, taking considerably longer.

"What!" shouted Asuka. " What's going on, this isn't fair!"

There was obvious fear in her voice, eyes wide with disbelief she watched as one of the Evas completed healing itself. Standing up slowly it turned to face Asuka, smiling menacingly. Calmly, it started to walk towards her.

"Damn it Shinji, where are you when I need you!" Asuka yelled out, slamming her fists on her controls and hanging her head. The re-configured UM unit closed in, piking up a fallen weapon on the way towards unit 02. Moving up it stopped directly in front of her, slowly raising its large black bladed weapon. Asuka screamed in rage as it swang back and brought the weapon down. Seemingly in slow motion it swung down elegantly, just before the blade struck however it itself was hit multiple times by projectiles ,forcing it from its deadly direction, and just missing unit 02. Asuka swung her head around to her right. Off in the distance Asuka could see unit 01 racing across the geo-front, rifle in one arm and extra battery pack and umbilical cord being held in the other.

Shinji fired another burst, the rounds impacting in the side of the attacking Eva. Its soft body being torn apart by the high explosive rounds, it stumbled away from unit 02 falling down heavily.

"Shinji!" yelled Asuka in delight. She was interrupted by a proximity warning, three other enemy Evas had regenerated and were closing on her, fast. Looking down again she realised she wasn't saved yet.

"Hurry up already!" she yelled into the consol.

"Yah Yah" replied the angry voice of Shinji. He was having difficulty carrying the batteries and rifle, as well as dragging the umbilical cord along the ground. During any other moment it may have appeared comical, Shinji occasionally tripped and scampered along the ground, firing awkwardly on the closing UM Evas.

The enemy UM Evas however were now aware of his presence, and dodged the fire, closed in on unit 02. Shinji heard Asuka's unease over the comms link. Letting out a loud shout in determination Eva unit 01 speed up even faster, the dragging cable decimating the terrain behind him and throwing up a massive dust cloud. Racing at an unbelievable speed Shinji was almost up to Asuka, dropping the cable and batteries he threw his Eva into the air. Asuka flinched as Shinji's Eva came flying at her feet first. Shinji, using his now free hand to push off of unit 02's shoulder, barely cleared the stationary unit, Unit 01 buried its heel in the face of an UM unit just beyond Asuka's Eva. The momentum of his Eva's mass being transferred, he landed on the spot while the enemy Eva flew backwards. Landing on both feet Shinji brought his gun around in a wide ark, butt first, hitting another Eva in the side of the head. Swinging his gun back around and into a firing position he fired on the stumbling Eva, tearing its soft body apart.

"Behind you!" screamed Asuka. Shinji turned just in time to raise his gun, catching the plunging blade of the third attacking Eva. The blade went half through his weapon, sparks flying as the metal twisted. The rifle held however and a furious Shinji twisted the gun, dragging the base of the Evas weapon into the ground. Releasing one hand he snatched at the arm of the enemy UM Eva then freed his other to land a heavy hit into the head of the creature. Stunned the creature released its grip on the giant blade, and stumbled back. Using its confusion Shinji stepped forward, grabbing hold of the faltering enemy and using his weight to swing the creature around and throw the entire UM unit through the air at the regenerating form of yet another enemy Eva. A massive amount of debris was thrown up and Shinji had time to slump a little to gain his breath, his heart beating at a stupendous rate.

"Nice moves third child" came a sudden sarcastic, but also joyous, voice of Asuka over the intercom.

"But if you wouldn't mind…. I don't like being helpless if you haven't noticed" she said with a smile. Shinji, catching his breath, managed to give her a wry smile between the gasps. Stumbling over to the dropped umbilical cord, he returned quickly to the task of reconnecting unit 02.

"Looks like I owe you again third child" said Asuka, while Shinji fumbled to get the umbilical cord to connect. Shinji grinned. Power returned to Eva unit 02, its form suddenly standing erect once more, its stretching arms fully enjoying its regained ability of movement.

"Ahhhh!" let out Asuka, in a long satisfied pure. Her circuits were activating one by one and as she heard the clicks of the extra battery packs being put into place by Shinji behind her, her Eva was back up to full operating conditions.

"Thanks Shinji" she said happily, looking over her shoulder at Shinji. She turned back to look at her consol, eying the reformed enemy Evas.

Picking up a discarded enemy blade she readied herself.

"So who wants some, ha!" she said devilishly, a twisted smile on her face.

The enemy Evas had mostly reformed, reclaiming their weapons and forming into three groups to prepare for a simultaneous attack. They had obviously learnt from Asuka's original onslaught.

"Asuka, Shinji, I want you to pull back right now! Your position is too exposed" came suddenly the voice of Major Katsuragi off the comms.

"Misato!" whined Asuka, the thought of retreat not on her mind.

"Calm down Asuka" replied Misato " I want you to take care of a group of 3 just north of HQ on the way back, then wait for the others attack, I don't want your umbilical cords cut again so far from base" she said evenly. Asuka, again an evil smile on her face, turned to Shinji.

"Are you ready third?" she asked seductively. Holding the large blade weapon in a prone position.

"Anytime Asuka" Shinji replied arrogantly. Withdrawing his progressive knife and preparing his Eva. "Charge!" screamed Asuka as the two Evas started to sprint to their new targets.

Back in the control room, the Commanders had less to smile about, they could see the U.N ground forces closing in on the two Evas in the geo-front. And even though they could not harm the units directly, the Evas cable and batteries were their target, and after these were destroyed they only had to wait it out. And as for the fight in the catacombs, they were down to their second last defensive line, soon the U.N troops would be able to cut all power from the source, then it was really all over.

"Damn it, why does he not respond" came the hushed but venomous voice of Gendo. In the quite tense atmosphere of the control room this could be heard over the rumble of the not to far off explosions. Ritsuko and Misato exchanged worried glances, it was unlike the Commander to show any concern whatsoever.

"Is the live feed still active" asked Fuyuzuki calmly, standing next to Gendo.

"Yes commander" replied Ritsuko. " We're down to one unit but its still live."

Just then an alarm rang out, unit 00s umbilical cable had finally been cut, and the familiar five minutes appeared on the large screen and began to count down.

"Damn it!" spat Misato. "There's no other cable out there, were going to have to tell her to retreat"

She reached for the intercom switch.

"No" interrupted Gendo from behind. Misato span around

"What!" she exclaimed.

"I will talk to her" said Gendo. And before Misato could respond he reached towards his own control board.

"Rei" he said. A camera link with Rei suddenly appearing on the screen.

"Yes commander" came the voice Rei Ayanami, slightly more stressed then usual.

"What is the situation?" he asked calmly.

"Not good" she said simply "the position will fall soon regardless of my action"

The screen shook as another barrage impacted on her Eva.

"Rei I want you to hold out as long as possible do you understand me" he said.

"Yes commander" she replied, returning to her completely dull monotone voice, though her eyes showed something else.

"And Rei, however you do it" the commander continued, looking at her image on the screen "come back alive" and with that he leant back in the chair. Rei face noticeable changed to one of slight surprise, then determination.

"Yes commander"

And with that her link snapped shut. Misato and Ritsuko exchanged slightly shocked looks then returned to the combat screens.

Outside around Rei the world was in chaos, somehow the level of fire from both sides had managed to increase, both sides expecting a final push so using all their remaining ammunition. Tracers and explosions were all around as UN forces covered the hills like ants. Rei had been forced onto the communications hill itself using her Eva and her AT field to protect the forces behind her. The hill itself was almost a complete loss, almost all mobile units were destroyed and only two pockets of NERV forces remained, one at the mobile unit immediately behind (and almost under) Rei's Eva and the other group at the rubble that was the old command centre. Though even from the rubble the rate of fire of the embattled forces was still impressive. Rei's Eva was simply out of its elements, she had spent most of her time defending her cable and the hill. After her assault rifle had ran out of rounds she had no offensive capabilities left, the U.N forces were too spread out to engage directly, and effectively. The U.N forces had concentrated fire on her cable and she was surprised it had remained intact this long, only due to her constant vigilance and movement had it remained intact. Her Eva itself was not looking that brilliant either, under constant barrage from AP and HE rounds the armour was wearing thin in some places, she had fallen heavily a couple of times and her AT Field only protected from some angles. It was like a praying mantis verses a swarm of ants, there were simply to many of them. Caught by another barrage on the earth below her feet unit 00 lost its footing and fell heavily, almost crushing the mobile field unit she was protecting.

Back in the control centre, the timer was down to three minutes, The control room was quiet as reports of the collapse of the second last defence line came through.

"Well that's it then" said Shigeru, reaching below the desk and bringing up an uzi.

"Ya" said Makoto, cocking his own hand-gun. "Well at least we gave it one hell of a shot" he fished, eyeing the east entrance expectantly,.

Gunfire and explosions could be heard very close now. Suddenly however a face appeared on the main screen it was the Minister of Defence.

"Gendo Ikari" he said calmly.

"Minister Muyo" said Gendo, good hand in front of his mouth "I trust this call means that aid will be arriving imminently."

"It has taken some time to pull together a task force at such short notice, though given what I have seen from the live feed I feel I should commit now with what I have" he said evenly.

"That is a most fortuitous move" replied Gendo "So what assets do we have?"

"We have 2000 assorted infantry and specialists with close air-support 1 minute away from NERV HQ and whatever air assets are available are already engaged for air superiority with the JSDA U.N units, more units will be arriving shortly" he continued.

"Commander, I would ask that the troops descend directly into the Geo-front and land just east of NERV HQ, markers will be displayed there, and NERV troops will direct them to the most critical location." said Gendo calmly. "I would also ask that they set up communications as soon as possible as we are about to lose our link"

In the command centre all eyes were on Gendo, Misato gave him an expectant look. Not noticing her he continued. "Given that, I would ask that any available air units proceed to Mt Tokowana immediately, to cover our last remaining surface units retreat."

"It shall be done" said Minister Muyo, after which he suddenly clicked off, the NERV link finally having been broken. Fast as lightning Gendo looked up at the surface tactical screen, appraising the situation. The service entrance that unit 00 had appeared through was already destroyed, unit 00 was trapped on the surface. He clicked the intercom, unit 00 only had about one minute of power left.

"Rei I want you to position the Eva so as to manually eject as close as possible to the communications centre, you and the remaining forces are to retreat immediately down the access shaft." commanded Gendo hurriedly. "Is that understood?"

On the screen Rei nodded, her screen disappeared, as she was cut off once more.

Up on the surface Rei was crouched low, physically shielding the retreat of the mobile command centre operators and guarding troops back to the command centre. With only 30 seconds of power left she covered the final distance crawling, as the troops scrambled over the debris into what was left of the communications centre. With 20 seconds left, Eva unit 00 lay down, positioning its entry plug to discharge, point blank, into the rubble next to the last open entrance. Giving her final command she pressed the eject switch and sat back as the entry plug shot out of the Eva into the rubble. Now without power the Entry plug went dark She crawled over to the entrance when suddenly a massive explosion rocked the entry plug. Rei lost her footing and fell back, landing awkwardly.

Had the U.N launched one final barrage to cut off her last retreat? She sat there for a second, contemplating her death at the hand of the approaching U.N troops. Before she could think about it for to long however the entry plug was opened from outside. Rei backed away apprehensively.

"Anyone alive in here?" asked a surprisingly calm and welcoming voice. Rei's eyes adjusted to the bright light and recognised a NERV uniform. A smile on her face, she moved towards him. The young captain helped Rei out and onto the rubble, other then him there were only 6 NERV troops guarding the entrance to the rubble.

"We had better go." he said, lifting her up without hesitation, and carrying her back to the communications centres entrance. Looking either way Rei saw that the area was surprisingly quiet, the hilltop was surrounded by a massive veil of smoke and dust, Unknown to Rei a government JSDF bombing run had temporarily thrown the U.N forces into disarray. Rei only saw the surrounding terrain as a blur however as she was quickly carried into the rubble. Putting her back on her feet the captain led her towards a hatch. Rei went down the ladder first, the last of the NERV personnel quickly followed, closing the hatch behind them. Descending frantically they were about 4 stories down when the captain turned to one of his men and nodded. They ran down a corridor and Rei heard an explosion behind her, obviously sealing the entrance.

Moving again Rei turned a corner, and suddenly stopped. In front of her lay a shocking scene of carnage and suffering, the hall was filled with wounded men and woman, some lying some sitting, smears of blood covering everything. Shocked Rei was unable to move, simply standing there, taking in the scene. Moving past her still form, the Captain said.

"Well we have done our part, its up to the others now"

And with that the two of them moved to try and help the wounded as best they could.

Back on the surface of the geo front the situation was not looking good. Two more UM enemy Evas were down, which made a total of 5 which were regenerating. Though 2 were having trouble, given the amount of damage that they had sustained. The rest had closed on the two pilots and were engaged in close combat. Both cables had been cut and the two Evas were on their battery packs with about 20min of combat left. Given the sheer number of adversaries the two Evas were back to back spending their time deflecting attacking blows from the circle of surrounding enemy Evas. Shinji having captured a enemy weapon at this stage. The attacks were only coming in sporadically, none of the attackers were willing to engage fully, only cutting off their retreat and waiting for the power to run out. The scene was intense, with positioning and tense waiting mixed in with occasional frenzied attack.

"Bloody cowards!" yelled Asuka as the latest attacker quickly backed off from its initial sortie.

"Damn it! This is getting us no where!" yelled Shinji at the world in general.

Back in the command centre Misato was contemplating, she turned to Ritsuko.

"How are these things regenerating themselves?" she asked almost accusingly.

"They must each have an S2 engine, hooked up specially in them or something" Ritsuko replied. "Considering how much energy it would take, there must be a core unit somewhere".

"Shinji, Asuka! Take them all down, then concentrate on one each and take it apart until you find their core. Then take it out with your progressive knife!" yelled Misato over the comms.

"You think its that easy! They're getting better you know!" came the angry voice of Asuka.

"Its that or death! You only have 15min left!" said Misato coldly. Suddenly Shinji's window came up in Asuka's EVA, he was smiling oddly.

"Not up for the challenge 2nd child?" he said teasingly. Asuka was momentarily shocked, he hadn't used that term to her before and the emphasis on the second was just a little too obvious. Returning to her usual smirk Asuka said

"Lets go Shinji, you and me… well take out the three in front of you first.. on three"

"Two"

"One"

"GO!" Asuka screamed, turning her Eva around so quickly that she was almost even with Shinji as they raced off to their first three targets. The enemy was quick to react and closed in, hoping to catch the two from behind. The three enemy UM Evas in front of the pilots looked like they were about to flee the two advancing units but then readied themselves. So this was it, both sides fully committed, only one side would be left standing at the end of this battle.

Both pilots were screaming as they bore down on their targets, Asuka suddenly launched her Eva into the air, soaring high into the sky her Eva paused for a second, before it beared down on its targets. Two enemy units raised their heads to follow her flight, ready to strike on her descent. The third kept track of Shinji who had sped up. Asuka, looking down, noticed the third UM unit not tracking her, and threw her blade down as hard as she could. One upward looking enemy unit tried to deflect the downward plunging blade with its own to save its comrade, but was just out of reach, Asuka's weapon struck home on the downward looking enemy Eva, striking it in the top of the head and effectively slicing it in two. Asuka was descending now and the last Eva was preparing for a killer upwards blow. Shinji however had gone turbo again, and had closed the distance rapidly, catching the last two Evas unaware. Sliding low he delivered an upwards cut to the unit that had tried to deflect Asuka's blade and was still recovering from the effort. He then raised himself quickly, spinning around and delivered a massive horizontal cut to the back of the enemy unit waiting on Asukas descent. It was effectively cut in half, and began to fall when Asuka's outstretched leg landed on its now lifeless form, driving its upper torso into the ground in a massive explosion of dust. They had no time to rest however, as the remaining 4 closed in with speed. Deflecting the two blades aimed at him, Shinji's Eva was never the less hit hard, firstly by a kick and elbow from the first unit as it sped by, carried by its momentum. Then by the fist of the second UM unit which used its momentum to throw unit 01 back viscously. Shinji landed hard.

Asuka was faring no better against her two opponents, having no weapon she had to back flip to avoid the first stroke. She was caught across the back in the second swing as the enemy unit ran past unable to stop, she yelped as her nerve sensors fired, landing on all four. The other UM unit was closing, and she grabbed a nearby discarded blade and swung it up just in time, the two weapons collided, spinning off into the distance. The second enemy unit, now unarmed, collided headlong into Asuka's crouching Eva, sending both of them tumbling back, wrestling. The two giants stopped sliding with the enemy UM unit on top, pinning Asuka to the ground.

Shinji had at this time got back up and was squaring off against the last two, out of the corner of his eye he noticing Asuka's plight, her second UM opponent closing to finish the pinned Eva pilot off. Shinji activated his progressive knife, grabbing it with his right hand and throwing it in one smooth motion.

Asuka was struggling on the ground, cringing to look up at the other approaching UM unit, when suddenly the unit holding her down went limp, looking back she saw Shinji's progressive knife sticking out of the side of its head. Grinning evilly she grabbed the knife and swung it above her head, cutting the feet of the approaching Eva out from under it. It however had already raised its weapon and fell forward, the end of its blade penetrated the shoulder armour of unit 02. Asuka screamed and drove the knife into the torso of the falling unit. Stricken, it collapsed on top of her, and she was effectively covered by two fallen units.

Meanwhile Shinji was still not doing well, he had slightly damaged one unit but he himself had received cuts and blows, his left leg was seriously damaged and his left hand had also lost strength. He had also lost both battery packs and was down to 5 minutes power. Deciding to charge he lunged forward, deflecting and slashing wildly he managed to impale one enemy unit with his blade, though now unable to retrieve his weapon he was forced to let go. Throwing himself back to avoid the other UM units swing of its weapon. Unit 01 quickly sprung back up, but now without a weapon the situation did not look good. Squaring up, the last two units sized each other up, circling each other for a few seconds. The scene was surprisingly quiet now that they were the last two standing.

Unit 01 stopped moving and stood feet apart, arms stretched wide waiting for the inevitable attack…. The enemy unit moved slowly, setting itself up for the final lung. Shinji was becoming impatient.

"Come on you bastard finish me off!" he screamed. The enemy unit began to charge obligingly. Shinji cringed, awaiting the inevitable. However as the enemy unit brought its blade up it began to stumble. Dropping its weapon, it faltered, falling hard, its limp body slid to rest at the feet of the surprised Shinji in unit 01. Shinji looked down astonished, he saw his progressive knife sticking out of the UM enemy units back. Looking up he saw the standing figure of Asuka's Eva, still posed in its last throwing position.

"No one kicks Shinji's ass but me!" Asuka said triumphantly. Shinji smiled at her

"Thanks Asuka" he said simply. Suddenly however Misato's face appeared in the bottom left hand side of theirs screens.

"Hurry up you two! Before they regenerate!" she said with worry in her voice.

"Sure thing" said Shinji coming to his senses. Both Evas grabbed their progressive knives and went to work on the nearest fallen enemy. They tore and cut at the bodies of the enemy, the UM units soft matter reacting to the blows, trying to minimise the damage, as well as….. hide something?

"Ewww this is disgusting!" came the appalled voice of Asuka as the body squirmed and stuttered underneath her.

"That's it!" came the voice of Ritsuko " That green sphere you see occasionally, the body is trying to hide it, that's the S2 engine!" Both pilots moved frantically, cutting away the mass, then almost simultaneously they both yelled

"Got it!"

Holding the green mass in their hand, they noticed that the remaining fleshy body still attached to the sphere tried to form a protective layer.

"Now I want you two to destroy it with your knifes, be careful though, they will probably self destruct." said Ritsuko.

"Wonderful" said Asuka eyeing her cylinder. Looking over she saw Shinji kneel over a corpse, looking at his own cylinder.

"You ready 3rd child" she said coolly, but with feeling.

"It was great to see you as your old self Asuka" Shinji said with a smile

"You fought well Shinji" she said with feeling. A massive smile appeared on Shinji's face, that was about the best compliment he could think of from Asuka. Both nodded at each other, turning their attention back to the spheres

"Raise AT fields!" came the call from the command centre. Hexagonal fields filled the air around the two Evas. Together the two pilots raised their knives and brought it down on their respective cylinders. For Shinji and Asuka the world turned white.

Back in the command centre the operators shielded their eyes, and then the earth shook. The explosions of the two struck S2 engines was immense, almost as powerful as an N2 mine. Not only that but the initial explosions set off a mini chain reaction, setting off two other close by downed UM Evas S2 engines. In what seemed a split second four massive craters were ripped into the earth and the plume of fire raised high through the hole in the geo-front up into the atmosphere. The effect was awesome, four explosions causing all kinds of effects as the plumes of fire danced and twisted in the tormented atmosphere. In the command centre alarms were sounding all over the place. But the rumble quickly died down.

The screen showed that the two Evas had landed awkwardly after being thrown around by the multiple explosions, The both ended up lying on the ground on the NERV HQ side of the nearest crater.

"There still alive!" exclaimed Misato joyfully, looking at the still shacking screen. The AT fields had absorbed the majority of the impact, however the sheer force of the impact and the number of directions it had sprung from had thrown the Evas around violently. Both Asuka's battery packs were destroyed and she was down to 5 minutes, Shinji now on 2min of power.

"Asuka, Shinji, are you O.K." came Misato's voice over the intercom. A groan came from Asuka, Shinji grunted with effort to raise his Eva. The explosion had further damaged Shinji's leg and Asuka's back, Shinji could not walk with confidence, and he hobbled over to Asuka.

"You O.K. Asuka?" he asked, pain obvious in his voice.

"Yah… I'm fine" she said weakly, getting up.

"You two retreat back to HQ, your almost out of power, there are still 8 out there" came Misato's concerned voice.

"I can't run on this leg" said Shinji, looking down with concern.

"That's what I'm here for" came the voice of Asuka, taking his Eva's arm and placing it around her Eva's shoulder. Quickly the two hobbled and stumbled out of the crater and made there way back to HQ.

"Now don't take advantage of this Baka" came the cheeky voice of Asuka, trying hard to help Shinji move quickly.

"Wouldn't dream of it" replied Shinji smiling, and the two continued on their way determinedly.

In the command centre Misato and co were looking for the condition of the enemy, the four furthest away had regenerated and picked up their glider sets.

"They may be coming in at you via air" warned Misato.

"This just isn't fair" came Asuka's whiney voice in reply, but she piked up the tempo almost dragging Shinji along.

The four units sprung into the air, gaining height quickly, weapons in hand. They rushed towards the two units. Closing in from above the situation looked hopeless, the two Evas hobbling defenceless bellow the flying creatures. The UM units closed in, and just as it looked like the end for the two NERV Evas, the attackers suddenly changed course. Swooping low over the two retreating Evas, the UM units gained hight again. Forming a tight circle in the air, simply gliding around as they had been at the start of the engagement.

In the command centre reports were coming in, the Japanese air force had gained air superiority and the ground forces were starting to push back the U.N forces in the catacombs. As well as this an armoured brigade was starting to engage UN JSDA forces in the northernmost areas. Some units had already surrendered, or asked for a cease fire, unsure why they found themselves suddenly fighting fellow countryman, and why their superiors were suddenly no longer contactable for comment. The ground condition was deteriorating rapidly for the SEELE controlled UN forces, now in a state of disarray.

"That's it, we've done it!" exclaimed Maya cheerfully.

"I hope the enemy Eva's realise that" came the calm but somehow loud voice of Gendo. They all looked up at the screen, still showing the two damaged Evas making there way back to headquarters, behind them the four enemy Evas gliding through the air…. There was a strange silence as all watched expectantly. Suddenly however a smoke trail appeared from left of screen as an enthusiastic Japanese Air-force pilot fired a missile off at the gliding Evas. It struck one in the leg, doing minimal damage, however this seemed to have the desired effect, as the four suddenly descended to their 4 still surviving comrades, who were still regenerating despite massive burns. Picking up the forms of their fallen comrades in various states of regeneration all 8 sprung into the air, piking up speed as they made their way out of the geo-front and away, flying low over the mountains to the south.

In the command centre, they were all speechless, as if not believing their own eyes. Then suddenly, as if to emphasise the point, a voice came over the intercom, it was a young lieutenant.

"We did it! The U.N forces are in full retreat………. The fighting's over!"

At these words the command centre broke into hysteria! There was cheering and joyful outburst as the staff began to embrace each other enthusiastically. Protocol went right out the window as everyone let loose emotions of relief, embracing and generally sharing in the feeling of joy in having survived. Above it all Gendo and Fuyuzuki looking down, smiles on their faces. In-between the furore downstairs Misato turned to give the two commanders a quick salute, eyes gleaming in tears of joy before she was mobbed by another enthusiastic staff member, Ritsuko also turned to give an approving nod and smile to the two before returning to the enthusiasm.

Gendo stood up end enjoyed the scene, Fuyuzuki joining him at the railing. Gendo turned, offering his hand to Fuyuzuki.

"Well done Professor" he said.

"Well done Commander" replied Fuyuzuki, shaking his hand. The two exchanged a smile and turned back to the celebrations below. His smile decreasing a little, Gendo spoke.

"And now we must go on the offensive" he said solemnly. Fuyuzukis face turned serious once more as he looked out onto the crowd below.

"The old men at SEELE must be stoped once and for all, and they're not going down without a fight" The smile was now completely gone from Gendos face his expression turned serious, Fuyuzuki nodded.

All over what was left of NERV headquarters the news was coming through, confirming that the sudden stop in the attack did mean that the fighting was over. From the catacombs to the surface the surviving personnel crawled out of their positions to see the withdrawing U.N units and celebrate with their comrades.

Over near the now sealed entrance of the last communications hill Rei finished up bandaging a leg when the news came through from up the corridor.

"That's it! They're in retreat! Its over!" yelled the enthusiastic young radio operator, a massive hurray erupted from the survivors and Rei stood up to see everyone start to embrace each other in relief. Suddenly grabbed from behind Rei was spun around a couple of times whilst in a hug before being put back down and spun around. Rei found herself looking into the face of an overjoyed captain Muyo, the same captain that had retrieved her from her entry plug.

"Well done pilot Ayanami you did it!" he said giving her shoulders a little shake. Rei, still a little shocked, looked up at him, but then broke into a smile. Saying in a surprisingly loud voice (so as to be audible above the cheering) she said.

"Thank you captain, we all did well"

And with that the captain turned to embrace some fellow soldiers. Rei watched, a smile on her face at the proceedings, though it faded slightly as she wondered about Shinji's fate.

Back on the surface of the geo-front Shinji and Asuka were suddenly surprised to have the overjoyed face of Misato come on screen, behind her they could see the other personnel all embracing each other and generally carrying on.

"You did it!" they heard Misato scream over the noise around her "Its over, they're in full retreat, you can stop running now!" Misato said, being suddenly grabbed from behind by Makoto and spun around.

Asuka and Shinji, unbelieving, stopped walking, looking back around to see that no more enemy Evas were visible. Completely exhausted the two Evas suddenly stumbled and fell forwards, the legs giving way without the continued efforts of the pilots. Falling forward onto the earth both Evas come to rest lying down, arms splayed.

The gravity of the news began to sink into Shinji mind, and with a massive smile on his face he suddenly had only one thought, to get out of the Eva! Without any more hesitation he pressed the manual eject button and leaned back as the entry plug shot out of the Eva. Waiting for the LCL to drain he forced open the door, jumping out onto the back of unit 01. Elated, Shinji fully stretched his body to embrace the glorious sunrays now filtering through the hole in the geo-front.

Shinji let out a massive. "Yee ha!" at the world in general, totally overjoyed at having survived the battle. Looking fixedly at the blue sky above he suddenly heard a similar feminine cry off to his right. Looking over he saw Asuka on unit 02, also stretching to embrace the world in general, she obviously had had the same impulse.

"Asuka!" he yelled enthusiastically, waving at her.

"Shinji!" she yelled back and started to make her way towards him. Shinji followed suit, both sliding down the backs of their Evas and running to cross the small space of ground between them. Before Shinji knew what happened he was spinning, trying to stay upright as an enthusiastic Asuka had jumped the last distance and embraced him in a massive hug. He had embraced her in return but it took all his strength to stay upright, Asuka actually weighing more then he did. They finally came to a halt, Shinji now smiling out of relief as well as joy. He was still a little dazed.

"We did it, we won!" she yelled, and before he or she knew it, she had leaned in to give him a short but strong kiss on the lips. Realising what she had just done Asuka was momentarily stunned, looking into the equally stunned face of Shinji. She began to turn red, but then Shinji suddenly broke into laughter and gave her another enthusiastic hug, which she returned, if a little unsurely. Shinji released her from the hug and held her at arms length. Before she had time to react he said.

"Heck, this is great, the only time I can actually hug you and not be beaten to a pulp" he said beaming at her. He released her but stayed were he was, very close. Her red face turned into a smile and she let out a laugh.

"Don't get used to it baka" she said with a playful smile. And with that she gave him a playful punch in the arm. Both beamed.

"Who would have guessed that I would be so happy to see you!" she said in an animatedly playful way, taking a step back.

"It's good to have you back Asuka" Shinji said taking a step forward, briefly placing his hand on her shoulder.

"……. Lets go check on the others!" he said, and with that he started to jog in the direction of NERV HQ. Asuka quickly followed, the two running happily side by side towards HQ.

The mood however could not stay overjoyed for long, as the reality of the situation began to creep back into the visions of the survivors. The casualty rate was very high, almost everyone was injured in one way or another, even Shinji's and Asuka's own injuries made themselves known once they had started jogging. Even though the rearguard action had been brilliantly organised there were still numerous dead from both sides, and many a NERV personnel started to morn the loss of a close friend or loved one. By the time Shinji and Asuka were in the control room the mood had changed from battle organisation to casualty organisation. Injured lined the corridors and were even in the command centre (the fighting haven gotten right up to the entrance). Shinji and Asuka made their way through the crowd, getting occasional encouraging comments from some of the personnel they passed, the relieved mood persisting somewhat. When they found Misato she was organising the incoming medical supplies and personnel from the Japanese army.

"Shinji, Asuka, I'm so glad you're all right" she said, after giving her last order. Standing up to give them both an enthusiastic hug at once. Releasing them she turning to Asuka.

"I'm so glad your alright Asuka, you had us all worried there for a while!" she beamed at her. Unsure how to respond Asuka smiled and fidgeted on the spot.

"Well I'm .. ah thanks… Misato…" Asuka started to say, just then however a door opened to their left and Rei walked into the room.

"Rei!" exclaimed Shinji, braking Misato's light grip and running over to Rei. As soon as she saw Shinji Rei broke into a big smile (huge for her!) and ran the short distance to him. They embraced in a massive hug, similar to Asuka's and Shinji's though finished up just holding each other.

Asuka was obviously shocked at this new development.

"How long have I been out for?" asked Asuka dumbfounded, staring at the emotional Rei in disbelief.

"You were out for almost a month" said Misato, looking at Shinji and Rei thoughtfully, her arms crossed. Asuka suddenly had a twinge of jealousy, now that she noticed that the two were not letting go of each other, and before she knew it she said.

"So where was wonder girl while Shinji and I were risking our lives out there?"

She had said this in her usual loud voice, loud enough to make Shinji and Rei hear and turn towards her. Though after saying this, her expression became uncertain, as if she doubted what she had just said.

"Actually, Rei was fighting off an entire division of U.N forces. And keeping our communications line open, without which we would not be here" said Misato evenly. "She also saved a lot of lives out there"

And with that Misato turned to the control panel, opening an outside shot of the fallen unit 00, battered and burned lying splayed across the devastated hill. Asuka turned back towards Shinji and Rei.

"Oh.. I'm sorry, I don't know what came over me.." she said simply "Rei. Of course I'm glad to see your alright, looks like you had it tough" Asuka finished by giving her a warm smile. Everyone in earshot was dumbfounded, even Rei looked perplexed. Asuka looked around her, seeing only silly expressions she put on her classic annoyed tone.

"What? Can't a girl say she's sorry around here? Can't I praise a fellow pilot?" she ended with her arms crossed, feet apart defensively. Rei moved, and the two pilots let go of each other, she turned to face Asuka "Its good to see you well again pilot Soryo" she said simply, a smile present on her face. Ritsuko, who had observed all the going on from the side, walked up behind Misato, a sly look in her face, and in that classic Ritsuko style she said.

"So its taken a small war to get the three acting like comrades, I hope we can count on a little more co-operation from now on" she finished. Ritsuko turned back to the consoles and walked off smiling. The three pilots broke into smiles and Misato stood there, an unbelieving expression still on her face.

Now that medical help was arriving, the three young pilots found that they were simply getting in the way. After being checked over and bandaged up the three were dismissed, and told to wait for Misato near the geo-front entrance.

The three pilots got changed, Shinji was waiting up on the surface when Asuka and Rei appeared. Rei was filling in Asuka about what had happened so far. Shinji was amazed to see the two chatting so openly, but after what had happened the last week or so he soon got over it. The three went and sat under a tree, which was surprisingly still whole, having survived the fighting unscathed. Asuka listened intently as they told her everything, about the incident in the battle with Kaworu, how Shinji had formulated a plan against his father. Also how they had gone on that weekend trip, though both left out the bits surrounding Shinji's and Rei's more intimate moments. Shinji having to interrupt Rei at first, but she soon got the hint

"Aww, why do I miss out on all the fun?" Asuka whined. Shinji said she could come on the next one laughingly. They also left out the contribution of the part angel Rei played in the experiment, Rei needing no prompting to gloss over this part. They continued to tell all they knew about what SEELE as well as Gendo's action after his time in unit 00. Asuka was bemused at the depth of deception, though she said she always thought there was more going on. Shinji finished by describing his and Rei's battle before he came to aid Asuka, to which Asuka looked impressed, saying she never would have expected such things from Shinji. Shinji, smiling, said that he had changed after seeing what he had seen in the Kaworu incident. Quietly Asuka also admitted that she could remember some things from her coma, like some kind of dream, though she stopped her explanation there. Looking more solemn she raised her head to face Shinji, saying suddenly that she thought that her mother's soul was in unit 02, something she had only realised in the last battle. Shinji, momentarily stunned, suddenly came to the realisation that his mother's soul must also be trapped in unit 01. The coincidences were simply too many, he thought back rapidly over all the experiences he had had in the Eva. He was lost in his own thoughts when Asuka asked Rei whose soul she thought was trapped in unit 00, perhaps her mothers? Shinji coming back to reality, giving Rei a concerned look. She simply stated she didn't know, and couldn't remember much from her childhood.

Asuka, unaware but with slight concern in her voice, suggested that perhaps Gendo could tell them more next time they all meet. Shinji and Rei exchanged glances. Eager to change topics, they started chatting about Toji, Hikari and Kensuka when suddenly a NERV van, driven by Misato, appeared in front of them. Shinji looked down and realised they had been talking for 3 hours! They all climbed into the van, and Misato sped off home. They passed numerous checkpoints on the way into and through what was left of the city, the U.N forces had either fled or surrendered but precautions were still being taken. Misato said that the situation was now well in hand and that most NERV staff were now on leave to recuperate after the last 24 hours, though Gendo, Fuyuzuki and Ritsuko were still working triple overtime as expected. They arrived at Rei's place when Misato suddenly announced that Rei was moving into the apartment next to theirs, and would be staying with them until it was arranged. Rei and Shinji broke into a smile and after some confused expressions, as if not believing her own thoughts, so did Asuka.

"Why not?" she said to herself. They gathered Rei's possessions, an act that took a pitifully short time, and made their way back to Misato's. They were all smiles as they opened the door, being greeted by a hysterical PenPen. They had forgotten that he had been alone through all this commotion and he was worried sick. It took reassuring hugs and constant patting from all of them for about ½ an hour before he calmed down again. All chatted away happily while Rei and Shinji made dinner. Asuka asking Misato more questions, most of which she couldn't answer. This annoyed Asuka slightly but she brushed it off. Soon they were all gathered together at the table and all began to tuck into the massive mountain of food. Halfway through however Asuka stopped stuffing her face long enough to get a question out.

"So what do we think Commander Ikari is going to say tomorrow?" she asked, while reaching for some strips of beef. Misato and Shinji exchanged glance, looking sidelong at Rei and then nodding slightly to each other in silent confirmation.

"The truth I think" said Misato, a little unsure.

"That should take quite a while" came the reply from Asuka which generated a short laugh from Shinji, Rei simply kept eating. Misato, smiling, continued.

"Yes it should be interesting" she said, her smile fading. She continued "Though some things may come as quite a shock"

Asuka looked suspicious but kept her cool and asked off hand.

"Shock, what shock?"

There was a pause as Misato formulated her words. Though then suddenly Rei spoke.

"What she is trying to say is that tomorrow we will most likely find out that I am not entirely human." Rei put down her chopsticks and raised her gaze to look at Asuka. Asuka looked a little taken aback, so she simply stared back.

"What?…. How? " Asuka asked.

"Rei can generate an AT field on her own, she does not require an Eva" Misato added. This struck home a little deeper and Asuka's shock was a little more obvious. She then however must have noticed her own state, and her expression snapped to one of seriousness. In complete control of her voice she said.

"So are you an Angel?"

"I don't believe so" Rei said simply. Misato and Shinji looked at Asuka expectantly. She however kept her gaze firmly fixed on Rei. After a while she said.

"Are you for us or against us?"

"I don't understand" replied Rei.

"Are you" she paused "Rei Ayanami here to destroy mankind or save it?" she asked a little more accusingly. Shinji began to worry about were this line of questions was going.

"I do not wish to destroy mankind" said Rei.

"Will you fight the angels" Asuka asked again.

"If they threaten us" she looked around the room, at Shinji and Misato and then back at Asuka "then yes."

Shinji and Misato turned back to Asuka.

"Well that's enough for me" Asuka said cheerfully, and took a massive bite out of a loaf of bread, chewing away. She looked back up to see Shinji and Misato still staring at her.

"What?" she said.

"Well its just that… well the way you used to treat her and.. well now this" Shinji said, stammering slightly.

"Oh" she said surprised, turning to face Rei "I'm sorry about some of the things I said back then Rei" she didn't skip a beat " I wasn't quite myself back then, we're O.K now…. Right?" she asked, maintaining the dominant energy in her voice. Now however it was Misato's and Shinji's turn to looked shocked, and the didn't hide it.

"Certainly pilot Soryo" said Rei, ignoring the other two.

"That's good then" said Asuka with a big smile, which vanished when she saw Shinji's and Misato's expression.

"What! I'm not aloud to say sorry!" she yelled at Shinji. Who cringed as a reflex, though quickly turned to continue eating his food as coolly as possible.

"Not at all Asuka" he said hurriedly with a weak smile. At least some things were still almost the same.

Asuka gave a triumphant "Humph" and started to eat again, smiling to herself between chomps. Misato looked from one child to the other, a bemused look on her face, where was she? Looking down in front of her she saw a beer can. Grabbing it she took a massive swig. Slamming it back down on the table she closed her eyes, a smile appeared on her face. 'strange days' she thought to her self.

"Well that's it. I'm off to have a bath" said Misato suddenly, and with that she stood up, grabbing her beer can and walked to the hall. Leaning back into the room she said.

"Hope you kids don't mind cleaning up"

And vanished before they could give an answer.

"That Misato" said Asuka annoyed. "She's always getting out of work"

"Yeh" said Shinji with a chuckle "Wish I'd thought of it"

This got a curious look from Asuka who watched Shinji eat for a little while.

"Actually Shinji isn't it your turn to do the dishes tonight?" she said innocently.

"Oh no you don't" said Shinji, without braking his attention off of his food "we all help tonight."

And he took another mouthful. Asuka, slightly annoyed, asked defiantly "And who made you the boss?"

"No one….." replied Shinji. "I just thought you would want to help your fellow pilots, anyway you wouldn't want us to think your turning lazy like Misato would you?"

He looked at her pleasantly. Asuka, unused to this side of Shinji, paused for a moment. She lent forward her eyes narrowing.

"That wouldn't be a smart remark from the second child I hope" she said, but without the extreme of her usual venom.

"I wouldn't dream of it" replied Shinji, with a disarming smile. He then started to stack the plates in front of him, and stood up, making his way to the kitchen. Asuka watched him go and turned to Rei who was still eating.

"Since when has Shinji grown a spine?" she asked offhand. Rei stoped eating and looked at Asuka, she paused for a second, a slightly confused look on her face.

"Since the battle with Kaworu there has been a change in Shinji.. and everyone at NERV….. Even you pilot Soryo" she said evenly. Asuka reflected for a second

"Hmmm… I think I like it" she said finally. She looked at Rei, who was not looking quite as cold as she had always used to look, but Asuka couldn't figure out why. Was it because Rei had changed? Or was it because Asuka's perception of Rei had changed?

"Though don't tell Shinji that" Asuka added with a smile. Rei paused for a second, then simply said.

"If you like"

Giving her a smile for no reason at all. The three of them cleaned up happily, Asuka speculating wildly about the secrets to come out tomorrow, while Rei and Shinji simply listened. They finished up and found themselves in the living room. Asuka taking the chair while Shinji crashed on the sofa. Rei, arriving last, took a seat next to Shinji and leant up against him, though not really affectionately. Asuka looked at the pair out of the corner of her eye, a look of annoyance crossed her face, however before she could further speculate Misato entered the room.

"Well I don't know about you kids but I'm bushed, I reckon we all hit the hay" she said, rubbing her still wet hair with a towel while all three looked at her approvingly, in the last 5 minutes their energy had really started to fail.

"Are you happy to sleep on the couch tonight Rei" Misato asked. Before Rei could respond however Asuka suddenly interrupted.

"She can stay in my room Misato!" said Asuka. The other three turned to look at her, Misato and Shinji, a little taken aback.

"I have an extra mattress, it will be much better then sleeping out here" Asuka continued. She glanced over at Shinji, who Rei was still leaning on. She wasn't exactly clear about her thoughts, though she knew that she didn't want Rei alone out here tonight, and she also didn't want to be alone tonight either. Misato, to tired to be too surprised, turned to Rei.

"Are you happy with that Rei." she asked.

"That will be fine" Rei said simply. Misato turned to leave the room.

"Well come along Rei I will give you a spare set of sheets" said Misato and wandered off. Rei let out an exaggerated yawn and gave Shinji a quick smile.

"Goodnight Shinji-san" Rei said. She got up and followed Misato out of the room. Shinji was left sitting there contently. He looked across at Asuka who was watching him coolly, frankly too tired to be intimidated he gave her a weak smile.

"So you and the first, ha?" Asuka asked completely normal. Shinji, leaning back, looked at her, he couldn't help but feel a little uncomfortable, though it wasn't through fear, it was something else.

"Ah well… I'm not really sure" he stammered "it just sort of happened" he said.

"So is it serious?" Asuka asked, turning her head slightly to fake a little disinterest.

"Well I care for her" he said slowly "I don't really know, I think it makes her happy… She really has had a tough life so far" he said finally. Asuka looked down at he floor tiredly.

"Yes" she said quietly. "We all have in one way or another."

She was too tired to hide the sorrow in her voice well. She lifted herself out of her chair and made her way to the door. Shinji digested the new information and quickly stood up.

"Asuka" he called after her, she turned around at the doorway "It really is good to have you back" he said, and smiled warmly. Asuka also put on a tired but honest smile.

"Good night Shinji"

"Goodnight Asuka" replied Shinji, and with that she left the room. Shinji looked around at the apartment, a satisfied smile on his face, it was good to be home. Making his way to his room he closed the door behind him, then collapsed face down on his bed. Too tired to undress, he pulled the covers over him roughly, turning over he looked with half open eyes at the ceiling. His last thought before drifting of to sleep with a smile was, 'another familiar ceiling'.

Over in Asuka's room the girls were also quickly preparing for bed. Asuka had already changed into her pyjamas when Rei entered in her usual night ware, a shirt and underwear. Asuka sat on her bed. Now that she thought about it she had never seen Rei in any other clothes other then her school uniform.

"Don't you have any other clothes?" Asuka asked inquisitively.

"These are all that I require." Rei said simply, kneeling next to her bed. Asuka watched her for a second.

"Needed? Have you never wanted anything else?" Asuka asked after a short while.

"Wanted?" said Rei softly, she stayed still, contemplating the idea, she was lost in thought. Asuka watched her. Decided that if she was going to give living next to Rei a real go, she was going to have to somehow help make her normal, and she would be damned if she was going to let Shinji screw it up. Asuka made a decision.

"Rei…. you, me and Misato are going to have to go and buy new clothes for you as soon as possible" Asuka said determinedly. Rei, distracted from her thought patterns, turned to face Asuka, saying.

"That is not necessary."

Asuka half expecting that answer, but she nevertheless had to fight down her annoyance until she said in a relatively normal tone.

"I know it's not necessary, but I would like to"

Rei remembered her earlier help from Shinji, and looked at Asuka evenly, Asuka was now smiling expectantly.

"Thank You pilot Soryo" she said finally, offering a tired smile, then laying herself down on the bed. Asuka was a little stunned by the smile but then was pleased with herself.

"Well that's settled then" She said triumphantly, and fell back onto her bed, leaning over to turn off the last light. The room went dark, with the moonlight from the window give everything a blue ting. Asuka lay there thinking about the smile she had just received from Rei. 'So she didn't only hand it out to the Ikaris' Asuka thought. 'Shinji obviously wasn't such a bad influence. Though he could only do so much' Asuka thought to herself.

It was up to her to teach Rei the finer points of being a woman, she smiled to herself, it would be good, plus she thought, she might begin to actually like the new Rei. Asuka lay there for a while, enjoying the feeling of general contentedness, a feeling she had not had in some time.

She continued thinking about the day's events, her victory with Shinji, she blushed slightly as she remembered kissing him briefly, and the joy afterwards of seeing everyone still ok. She also remembered the surprise of seeing Shinji's and Rei's closeness, it had rubbed her the wrong way, and again just then, did she really have feelings for Shinji?

'Naa' she thought to herself. Even though he had changed a lot… She puzzled about it a little more before curiosity got the better of her.

"Rei" she said softly, without thinking about it.

"Yes" came the reply from the mattress on the floor. Asuka, a little shocked that she had actually spoken aloud, was unprepared to ask a question.

"Ummm… why did you kiss Shinji?" she finally blurted out the assumption, immediately embarrassed by the forward and odd question. Rei, in her bed, did not move, seemingly in thought for a while

"Because, I wanted to show him…. that I care for him" she answered finally. Asuka contemplated this for a while, not sure if she wanted to continue.

"Are the two of you going out?" she asked finally.

"I'm not sure what you mean, going out?" Rei replied. And suddenly it struck Asuka, it was not an act with Rei, there was no manipulation, just a simple genuine nature. Asuka turned to look down at the dozing girl, studying her for a second. She suddenly felt a little ashamed for having treated her so badly for so long, but this was something she was going to change. Shinji may be caring but she doubted he had changed enough to no longer be incompetent! She, Asuka Soryo Langley was going to help Rei Ayanami!

"Don't worry Rei-san……. Good night" she said sweetly, then turned over.

"Good night Pilot Soryo" replied Rei, and almost immediately fell asleep.

Authors notes:

There you go, the first section, not too bad I hope, and now that the story's set-up is done it's time for more fun character development and more action! ;)