****
Disclaimer: The original Neon Genesis Evangelion belongs to
Gainax. This particular plot deviation was constructed by me, JJ Corley,
and has been dubbed an 'Alternate Universe (AU)'. Therefore, the term
Alternate Universe or AU shall serve as my disclaimer for any future
posting of this series. Do not sue me, for if you do you'll only get a
few bucks and an old 486DX with a copy of edit.com. What A Prize. I've
made my point.
****
Ludicrous Configuration! Productions
Presents
A Neon Genesis Evangelion Alternate Universe
By JJ Corley
"God keep thee, thy works, and all thy transgressions; for
verily as ye shall sow, so shall ye reap."
Commander Ikari Gendou sighed. That damn headache was back, and
the third Angel, Sachiel, would recover -only to resume in drawing ever
closer when it did. 'Great. Juuust wonderful. As If I really needed to
give SEELE a reason to chew my ass off.'
Movement caught his eye, and he spared a glance at the
surveillance monitor built into his desk. The forms of Misato and a
young man played across it for a brief moment, before the image cycled
again.
His son had arrived; action could now be taken against the
Angel.
[_}~`\-/'~{_] Neon Genesis Evangelion: Honor's Duty
^ " ^ Stanza Two: Retrograde
"What is Eva Unit One's current status?"
Hyuuga paused in mid-type to look at Ibuki. Ibuki did likewise
to look at Hyuuga. They both looked at Aoba.
Aoba giggled behind his tokuban as Youta was berated, once
again, by Ai for hurting Moemi-chan's feelings. Gotta love that classic
Manga.
Hyuuga shrugged, punched a few buttons, and took a sip of his
Dr. Pepper as the relevant data began to scroll in. "Unit One should be
in the cage in T-Minus four minutes and counting, sir. Pilot Ayanami has
regained consciousness, and has reported no serious injuries. Once in
the cage, Unit One can be prepped and ready in two minutes."
Gendou absorbed the information without a word. Then he stood.
"Fuyutsuki, handle this."
"Yes, sir."
From his left, a new voice emerged. "Commander.. May I ask your
intentions?"
Gendou paused, turning to face her. "Yes, Dr. Akagi, you may. We
are going to reinitialize both Units."
"I needn't remind you that you're short a pilot." Fuyutsuki
said.
"Unit Zero hasn't even been fully activated yet.. we have tests
yet to perform, and the second Rei.."
"Her name is Kizuko, Dr. Akagi. You seem to forget that."
"..has not yet recovered from your failed experiment with Unit
One." Ritsuko continued, undaunted.
"I know."
"Also, the first Rei seems to be unduly suffering from some
psychological battle.. Her synchrograph was down four points yesterday,
and another five before launch today."
"Hummn.. I see." Came the standard, uncaring reply.
"Do you? Do you _Really_?" Ritsuko narrowed her eyes at the
commander. Sometimes, she wanted to scream at how callous the man could
be. She knew Gendou cared for the Ayanami clones, but he seemed to be
damned and determined to contradict - or.. could it be to hide? - those
feelings in how he acted towards them. "You don't seem to realize how
serious this truly is. If this keeps up, she will no longer be a viable
pilot for either Unit." Ritsuko shook her head. "I simply can't see how
we are to survive this."
"That is why I am the Commander and you are not. The.. 'Reserve'
pilot has arrived. He is currently with Captain Katsuragi. Dr. Akagi:
you will find them, then bring them to the Cage. I will be there
shortly."
"And what are you going to do?" asked Fuyutsuki.
Gendou sighed. "If you must know, I shall be in the lavatory."
Fuyutsuki and Ritsuko both blinked. They looked to each other,
and then to the Commander. All Fuyutsuki could think to say was "Oh."
Grumbling, the Commander strode behind the guard rails of his
personal lift; He hit the button and slowly descended from view.
When the lift doors swished shut, Fuyutsuki turned to Ritsuko.
"Their first meeting in ten years..."
"Who? The Commander and the toilet?" She snarked.
Fuyutsuki giggled like a drunken college boy just released from
an all night drinking binge. This drew more than a few looks from the
console techs. "That too. But seriously, though."
"Yeah. To think that the reserve pilot is the Commander's own
son." Ritsuko shook her head sadly. "I just hope Gendou knows what he's
doing."
"As do we all." Fuyutsuki whispered as the doctor left. "As do
we all."
[_}~`\-/'~{_]
^ " ^
Footsteps echoed in empty corridors, rebounded off the walls of
gargantuan chambers, and stopped for the occasional escalator or two.
Continually. In that order.
"Are you sure you know where we're going?"
Misato growled at Shinji, her patience waning. "Of course I am!
We'll be there in a few minutes!"
Her younger companion rolled his eyes. "Riiight. That's why
we've been wandering around in circles.." He paused as a pair of doors
swished open diagonally, then continued. ".. Oh, look: There's junction
J-34 AGAIN; that's what? 5 times in as many minutes?"
Misato turned on her heel and glared at him. "Oh, SHUT UP! Just
be quiet and follow me, OK?"
Shinji wisely stayed silent; that is, until junction J-34 came
into view for the sixth time. "We're hopelessly lost. Give me the map."
Misato complied, handing it to him over her shoulder with a
disgruntled 'Fine'. Shinji looked at it for a moment, then turned it
sideways. They passed a door - which, oddly enough, was clicking -
before Shinji asked the important question. "Just where ARE we going,
anyway?"
The answer of "Nowhere, fast" came from behind him, catching him
by surprise. He turned quickly to face the newcomer, wondering how she
had snuck up on him. It was embarrassingly obvious: The clicking doors
had been an elevator; standing inside was an attractive woman with blond
hair. Shinji looked her over: lab coat, a high-collared blue silk shirt
with a pull-ring zipper and a black skirt. She also wore a look of mild
annoyance.
"You're late, CAPTAIN Katsuragi."
Her tone carried 'mild' annoyance to new levels. Misato winced.
"Eh heh heh.. Hi ya, Ritsuko.."
"So late.." Ritsuko continued, "That they sent ME to find you.
We don't have the time or the man power for this."
"Well, I.. You know.. I mean-"
Ritsuko sighed, cutting her friend off. She then glanced at
Shinji, who was nonchalantly leaning against the corridor wall, watching
them. "Is this him? The Third Child?"
"Yes. Shinji, introduce yourself."
Shinji nodded, came forward, and bowed. "I'm Ikari Shinji.
Pleased to meet you."
Ritsuko, slightly amused, bowed somewhat. "Akagi Ritsuko.
Resident Doctor, Scientist, and Supervisor of Project E. If you have any
questions, please feel free to ask. My door is open, if you need to see
me at anytime."
"Thank you. I'll try to remember that."
"Well then, since we are currently under attack, I think we
should be going. Don't you, Captain?"
Misato nodded, then folded her arms. Her head fell and the
normally hyper-cheerful Misato became rather somber. "Is the Commander
still planning to..?"
"Yes, and no."
[_}~`\-/'~{_]
^ " ^
Ayanami Rei tiredly crawled out of the entry plug and onto the
surrounding catwalks. She set her shaking frame down and leaned her back
against the purple giant's shoulder. She was weary.
But it was more than that.
'No time for such thoughts now,' she chided herself mentally as
she pulled her knees up to her chest, the material of the plug suit
making a squishy scrunching sound. Her body, mind, and soul were
fatigued. The constant testing, probing, analyzing, scynchrograph
readings, and now live combat.. all had taken their toll on her.
She desperately needed a break, but as long as she was the only
one who could pilot the Eva, she could not rest. Piloting is what she
would have to do.
A familiar shadow fell across her, and she addressed it without
looking. "Is this why he is here? Shinji? Will you make him ride as
well?"
Ikari Gendou sighed. He had to tell her. He owed her that much.
"I will give him the choice I could not afford to give you."
"And if he refuses?" She asked, looking up to the older man.
Gendou's gaze softened slightly. Rei's hair fell into her eyes, only
slightly masking the tears which began to fall. She knew the answer, but
she also knew she would fail. And her demise would mean Shinji's as
well.
Gendou supplied the answer she dreaded.
"Then you shall pilot it again.. alone."
[_}~`\-/'~{_]
^ " ^
"First wave personnel to battle stations!" The P.A. screeched,
"Repeat, first wave personnel to battle stations!!"
Ritsuko removed her gaze from the speaker above to her
companions on the stairs below. "It must be moving again."
"The angel?" Shinji queried as he reached the doctor's level,
Misato gasping not far behind.
"Prepare to launch Anti-Ground Attack Units One and Zero!" the
P.A. system belched before Ritsuko could answer. From behind him, Shinji
could hear Misato groan.
"They.. *gasp!*; have got to be.. kidding.." Said the wheezing
captain as she tried to regain her breath. "..Right? Rei's probably..
injured and Unit Zero hasn't even been fully activated yet.."
"It has a point zero eight one one seven nine four percent
chance of activating.."
"That's not even a full numeral!" Misato countered.
"Still, it's not a negative. And if we can activate two units at
once.."
"Save your survivability profiles for someone who cares.
Kizuko's still in the hospital, so you don't have a pilot." At this,
Ritsuko remained silent - yet that was all the answer Misato needed. She
covered her mouth and suppressed the cry of grief and outrage she could
feel swelling within her breast. "Oh my god.." she murmured, "You were
right. The Commander really is going to.. *Haaa*" she gasped, realizing
just who could over hear her. Shinji's eyes narrowed slightly.
"The final choice isn't the Commander's.." Ritsuko whispered
fiercely to her friend as she took her aside, "It's HIS."
`Something is going on here..` Shinji thought as a faint
vibration swept through the building. He looked high over head to see
the ceiling lights slowly begin to sway. `Why do I get the feeling I'm
going to regret ever receiving that letter?` He asked himself. Then
aloud, "Shouldn't we get going?"
Ritsuko turned her head, speaking to him over her shoulder. "We
are here. We only need to take the final step. Are you ready, Misato?"
As the younger woman nodded, Ritsuko strode forward and swiped a
card through a reader. It beeped, and the wall next to the landing
pulled apart into darkness. Shinji, not knowing what else to do, vainly
attempted to follow Ritsuko's advice of watching his step as the three
of them entered. The massive door closed, and all was silent.
The lights came on with a resounding *ClacK!*, and Shinji found
himself looking into the glassy surface of a single, cycloptic eye.
"'Holy Schinikies!' What is this?" He asked in awe.
"This," A voice emerged from the shadows above the yellow giant,
"Is Evangelion Unit Zero. And you, Ikari Shinji, shall pilot it."
Shinji forced his eyes from the Eva's blank stare to meet the
unwavering gaze of Ikari Gendou. "Father.."
From the observation window above, Gendou cracked a small smile.
"Been awhile, eh?"
Shinji stared up at his father with his mouth open for a few
moments. Then he began to laugh. It was a hollow, haunting sound with no
mirth involved. It was a sound born from cynicism. It was wholly
inappropriate for the situation, but it continued.
Ritsuko glanced at Misato, who raised an eyebrow and shrugged at
the unasked question. (What's going on? I don't know, ask him.) Ritsuko
frowned, and Misato shook her head. (I'm not going to ask him, You ask
him. Nah-uh, you're the one who cares, YOU ask.) Ritsuko sighed, Misato
striking a victory pose - which she quickly dropped at the Commander's
disapproving glance and Ritsuko's glare. (Alright.. I'll ask him. Heh, I
won again! Hey, I heard that! You Idiots.)
During this unspoken exchange, Shinji had stopped laughing.
"That is just so like you, Father! You don't give a damn about me for ten
years; then when you have a use for me, you whistle." He said quietly,
staring at his shoes. As he lifted his gaze to meet that of his
father's, he continued, "Do you really expect me to always jump at your
beck and call? This is your one chance. You have forty five seconds to
convey just WHY I am needed here. And it had DAMN well better be good,
Father." Gendou smiled, and his eyes narrowed at his father's bemused
expression.
"Shinji, You will use the Evangelion to battle the angel. Why?
Because if you do not, all of mankind shall perish in fiery oblivion."
Shinji folded his arms across his chest and let go of the anger
inside of him. "All right. Clocks' stopped, you have my attention. Now
explain: Why am I needed to do this?"
Before Gendou could answer, another voice emerged from the
shadows, along with its owner. Shinji recognized her. It was the girl
from the street.
"I can't do this alone. That is why you are needed." She said.
She was dressed in what appeared to be a wet suit, and crossed her arms
around her stomach. "I am Ayanami Rei. First child, and designated pilot
of Evangelion Unit One. And if you will not help me to defeat this
threat.. then I will die, alone, in the attempt."
A brief look of concern flashed across Shinji's face, his left
arm falling to the side while the other gestured towards Rei. "Wait..
You were the pilot of the purple robot, right?"
"Strictly speaking, these are not robots." Ritsuko informed from
behind him. "They are man made, all purpose weapons for the war to end
all wars.. Artificial Human Evangelion."
Shinji almost jumped out of his skin. "'ARTIFICIAL HUMAN'?!? Is
that why you have them so restrained? Are they going to get up and walk
away?"
"You may rest assured, that while such an improbable thing, in
most variables, could never occur.. It is still a possibility; and no
matter how remote that possibility may be, we must be cautious." Gendou
said.
Shinji turned to his father. 'That is the stupidest crock of
shit I've ever heard..' He thought. `If a chicken can live with only the
lower portion of its cerebellum intact, then what of us?' "How do you
plan on controlling these.. 'Evangelions'?"
A brief tremor shook the building, and Gendou attempted to
briefly explain. "We have devised a system which we call the 'Entry
Plug', a large cylindrical device in which a pilot is enclosed, and then
inserted into the Unit's spinal cord. Without the plug, none of the
impulses from the brain of the Unit may get through. With the plug, the
pilot serves as the brain of the Unit."
"And what if the pilot is knocked unconscious? Or if there is no
pilot inside this 'Entry Plug'?"
"Then.." Rei began, hesitating slightly, "There is the
possibility of the unit going berserk. Or rather.. of the Unit
controlling itself, as do you and I. If such a thing were to occur.. I
only hope the Evangelions will fight for us." Rei hugged herself
tightly. "If not.. then humanity may be twice damned.."
"..." Shinji shook his head. "I don't like this one bit. This
entire situation reeks of disaster." Out of the corner of his eye, he
could almost see Rei's spirit fall. "But.. I'll help you. Under
three conditions."
"What are they?"
"One: I'm on the pay roll."
"Agreed."
"Two: There is no way this side of your personal hell that I'm
going to live with you."
"Of course."
"Three: Tell me. Is this why you sent me to be trained? Answer
me, Father! Is this the purpose you had for me all along?!?"
Gendou shook his head. "Your training was your mother's idea. if
you have a complaint, register it now. If not, then prepare yourself for
battle."
His fists clenched tightly, he had known his training was due to
his mother. And through it all, Shinji had but one question. "Why? Why
did she place me on this path?"
It was Rei who gave him the answer he had both wanted, and yet
had also known all along.
"A Martial Artist's duty, his honor, lies not with himself, but
in helping and protecting those in need - those who cannot, or will not,
defend themselves - to the best of his ability. In this, and for this,
you have been trained; have you not?"
Shinji dropped his head and closed his eyes. 'Mother knew this
was going to happen all along..' he shook his head, then turned to
Ritsuko. "I'll do it."
Rei silently came from behind him, and he only registered her
presence as she touched his back. "Thank you." She said. Then she was
gone.
Gendou, high above, smiled a slow resentful smile. It would
work.
It had to.
[_}~`\-/'~{_]
^ " ^
"So then, Shinji.. You understand the reason behind this test?"
Ritsuko asked over the comn.
From the confines of Unit-00's entry plug, He nodded. "With the
Angel above, making sure I'm able to pilot seems like a good idea.. But
I'm still not clear on how to pilot this.." Shinji gestured around
himself, "..Thing.."
From inside Unit-01's entry plug, and already inserted into the
Eva, Rei smiled. "Think, and it shall be done. But do not dwell on the
goal, but of the very essence of the action you wish to take."
"Oh, THAT helps. Might as well tell me to run on instinct.." He
muttered.
"Shinji: Run on instinct." Said a voice over the comn.
Shinji narrowed his eyes as the door of the entry plug swung
into position. "Oh, Thanks Father. You're a REAL help."
"Don't mention it. Inject the entry plug!" From his desk in the
command center of Nerv, Gendou watched as Ibuki swiftly complied.
"Roger! Inserting entry plug!" Maya's fingers flew across the
keys, routing commands to the Magi and other sub-systems. "Plug lock-in
procedure complete! Initiating first contact and flooding entry plug!"
Inside Unit-00, Shinji was immensely glad for that liquid oxygen
dive training last summer, but found it amazing that he could still
talk. "What in the hell? It this even..? It isn't! You know this is
physically impossible, don't you?!"
A small box with Ritsuko inside popped into his view. "Just
except it."
"But..!" It was obvious he couldn't.
"Look, just except the fact and get on with it!"
"But I..!"
"No 'But's!"
"I! You! GyAh.." Shinji's arms waived wildly, his hands forming
several interesting gestures. He tensed for a moment, then let it go.
"Yes ma'am.." he sighed in abject defeat.
"Better."
The box winked out of existence as weird things began to
happen.. First floating words, then some type of graph followed by
sparkling lights.. Shaking his head, he tried to focus on Ibuki's voice
and concentrated on not having a bad trip.
The lightshow stopped and the world became red, almost a blood
colored sheen. Shinji waited a moment, believing this to be normal.
Then it spoke. Not in words, but in images flashing through his
mind with an intensity akin to a raging fire. Shinji couldn't help the
small gasp of pain and surprise.
It was Hers. Not Rei, but someone identical to her. This was her
Eva, her soul had taken the Evangelion's massive bulk as its own
residence. He screamed in pain as it attempted to rip out the very thing
which made him Human and replace it with what, to his distorted
perceptions, seemed nothing more than a man made mockery.
Then the invasion stopped. An image appeared in his field of
vision, flawless white skin and blue hair an almost painful contrast to
the red ichor he floated in.
\You do not have permission\
\Why are you here, He Who Is The One\
He struggled with the pain and his mind to find an answer,
barely able to believe what was happening. "To prevent the death of the
innocent.. It's my obligation now! I must go, lemme go!"
\Why should I comply with you, He Who Is The One\
`This is insane..` he told himself, shaking his head to clear
it. "I don't have an answer for that, I don't even know what's going on
here! Just let me go! If you don't," He gestured around, "None of this
will matter! She won't exist! We'll all die!
\That is your perception, He Who Is The One\
Shinji blinked in confusion. "What do you mean, my perception?
The Angel is here!"
\So it would seem\
\What would He Who Is The One have me do about it?\
"Just let me go kill the damn thing already! You're wasting
time!"
The image of the Rei look-alike smiled ruefully for a moment
before speaking again.
\I shall help He Who Is The One, I shall give He Who Is The One
the knowledge needed to Ride\
\Be warned, however\
\Come inside me again without permission and I shall destroy the
soul of He Who Is The One\
"Just what the hell do you mean by that?"
Shinji received no answer as the world seen through the eye of
an Eva came sharply into focus; Ibuki's voice faded rapidly, saying:
"Opening reciprocal circuits."
He found his head swimming with pain, and a dark sense of
foreboding took root within his soul. Surprisingly, no time seemed to
have elapsed while he was in communication with Unit-00. He wanted to
say something about what had happened - although, try as he might, his
voice failed him. Just what could he say that wouldn't sound like a
frightened child making lame excuses to get out of saving the world?
In the end, Shinji hardened his resolve and said nothing. No
matter what, the Angel would die, and that was all that truly mattered
at the moment.
Wasn't it?
[_}~`\-/'~{_]
^ " ^
From inside the control room, Ritsuko was in shock. "This.. is
amazing.." She whispered. "Synchro errors are within point two percent..
It's going to work!" She said, turning to Misato.
"But, can we REALLY do this to him?" Misato turned to the
commander, knowing even as she asked what the answer would be.
"Of course. If we fail to defeat the angels, Humanity has no
future. Proceed, captain Katsuragi."
Misato turned back to Ritsuko. "Are the Eva's ready?"
"Primary and secondary restraints have been released, and all
preparations are complete."
"Gates 4 and 5 are clear, Eva's loaded and ready for launch
sequence." Ibuki added.
"Then let's do this.." Misato muttered. "Evangelion Units Zero
and One, Launch!"
Inside Unit-00, Shinji scowled as the electromagnetic rail
system sent the Eva rocketing towards the surface. In less than a
moment, he was above ground, Unit-01 some distance to his right. But
that was not what concerned him, it was the Angel.
Sachiel blinked both sets of eyes. Very disconcerting, rather,
yes. Either this four-eye thing had him seeing double, or there really
were two of these dark servants of the Lillim.
`Wait a minute,` Sachiel blinked again, recognizing the battle
between the purple servant's soul and that of its rider which was absent
from the orange/yellow servant, `those is two dark servants of the
Lillim`
That thought was quickly followed by another as Sachiel sized
the orange/yellow servant up. The servant's soul seemed to be almost
complementing that of the riders, although the link between them was non
existent. And as for the rider..
Shinji glared at the Angel, wanting nothing more than for the
final safety locks to release, so he could jump on it and pummel it to
death. Unit-00 did as Shinji did, its single eye reflecting the
surrounding light in an almost ominous manner.
Sachiel began to sweat. `Oh, shit.`
[_}~`\-/'~{_]
^ " ^
"Release final safety locks! Rei, concentrate on the Angel.
Shinji, I want you to try-"
"Negative, Captain!" Came Rei's voice from the comn, "The
Angel's ignoring me, it's heading straight towards Shinji!"
Misato's eyes widened. "What?!? Rei, stop the Angel!"
Unit-01 ran from its harness, coming along side Sachiel. Rei
made a grab for the Angel, but it evaded, turning on her.
Inside Unit-00, Shinji narrowed his eyes. "Let's do this." He
said, confusing the entire Command staff.
"Shinji, what do yo.." Misato started, only to drop off as the
Evangelion leapt into the air. Ritsuko dropped her pencil, the sound
echoing through the silent command center.
"He.. He shouldn't be able to do that.." The doctor murmured.
As Unit-00 came down on Sachiel with a mighty kick, Misato
agreed with as much intelligence she could muster. "Uh-huh."
[_}~`\-/'~{_] Neon Genesis Evangelion: Honor's Duty
^ " ^ Stanza Two: Retrograde
End
Disclaimer: The original Neon Genesis Evangelion belongs to
Gainax. This particular plot deviation was constructed by me, JJ Corley,
and has been dubbed an 'Alternate Universe (AU)'. Therefore, the term
Alternate Universe or AU shall serve as my disclaimer for any future
posting of this series. Do not sue me, for if you do you'll only get a
few bucks and an old 486DX with a copy of edit.com. What A Prize. I've
made my point.
****
Ludicrous Configuration! Productions
Presents
A Neon Genesis Evangelion Alternate Universe
By JJ Corley
"God keep thee, thy works, and all thy transgressions; for
verily as ye shall sow, so shall ye reap."
Commander Ikari Gendou sighed. That damn headache was back, and
the third Angel, Sachiel, would recover -only to resume in drawing ever
closer when it did. 'Great. Juuust wonderful. As If I really needed to
give SEELE a reason to chew my ass off.'
Movement caught his eye, and he spared a glance at the
surveillance monitor built into his desk. The forms of Misato and a
young man played across it for a brief moment, before the image cycled
again.
His son had arrived; action could now be taken against the
Angel.
[_}~`\-/'~{_] Neon Genesis Evangelion: Honor's Duty
^ " ^ Stanza Two: Retrograde
"What is Eva Unit One's current status?"
Hyuuga paused in mid-type to look at Ibuki. Ibuki did likewise
to look at Hyuuga. They both looked at Aoba.
Aoba giggled behind his tokuban as Youta was berated, once
again, by Ai for hurting Moemi-chan's feelings. Gotta love that classic
Manga.
Hyuuga shrugged, punched a few buttons, and took a sip of his
Dr. Pepper as the relevant data began to scroll in. "Unit One should be
in the cage in T-Minus four minutes and counting, sir. Pilot Ayanami has
regained consciousness, and has reported no serious injuries. Once in
the cage, Unit One can be prepped and ready in two minutes."
Gendou absorbed the information without a word. Then he stood.
"Fuyutsuki, handle this."
"Yes, sir."
From his left, a new voice emerged. "Commander.. May I ask your
intentions?"
Gendou paused, turning to face her. "Yes, Dr. Akagi, you may. We
are going to reinitialize both Units."
"I needn't remind you that you're short a pilot." Fuyutsuki
said.
"Unit Zero hasn't even been fully activated yet.. we have tests
yet to perform, and the second Rei.."
"Her name is Kizuko, Dr. Akagi. You seem to forget that."
"..has not yet recovered from your failed experiment with Unit
One." Ritsuko continued, undaunted.
"I know."
"Also, the first Rei seems to be unduly suffering from some
psychological battle.. Her synchrograph was down four points yesterday,
and another five before launch today."
"Hummn.. I see." Came the standard, uncaring reply.
"Do you? Do you _Really_?" Ritsuko narrowed her eyes at the
commander. Sometimes, she wanted to scream at how callous the man could
be. She knew Gendou cared for the Ayanami clones, but he seemed to be
damned and determined to contradict - or.. could it be to hide? - those
feelings in how he acted towards them. "You don't seem to realize how
serious this truly is. If this keeps up, she will no longer be a viable
pilot for either Unit." Ritsuko shook her head. "I simply can't see how
we are to survive this."
"That is why I am the Commander and you are not. The.. 'Reserve'
pilot has arrived. He is currently with Captain Katsuragi. Dr. Akagi:
you will find them, then bring them to the Cage. I will be there
shortly."
"And what are you going to do?" asked Fuyutsuki.
Gendou sighed. "If you must know, I shall be in the lavatory."
Fuyutsuki and Ritsuko both blinked. They looked to each other,
and then to the Commander. All Fuyutsuki could think to say was "Oh."
Grumbling, the Commander strode behind the guard rails of his
personal lift; He hit the button and slowly descended from view.
When the lift doors swished shut, Fuyutsuki turned to Ritsuko.
"Their first meeting in ten years..."
"Who? The Commander and the toilet?" She snarked.
Fuyutsuki giggled like a drunken college boy just released from
an all night drinking binge. This drew more than a few looks from the
console techs. "That too. But seriously, though."
"Yeah. To think that the reserve pilot is the Commander's own
son." Ritsuko shook her head sadly. "I just hope Gendou knows what he's
doing."
"As do we all." Fuyutsuki whispered as the doctor left. "As do
we all."
[_}~`\-/'~{_]
^ " ^
Footsteps echoed in empty corridors, rebounded off the walls of
gargantuan chambers, and stopped for the occasional escalator or two.
Continually. In that order.
"Are you sure you know where we're going?"
Misato growled at Shinji, her patience waning. "Of course I am!
We'll be there in a few minutes!"
Her younger companion rolled his eyes. "Riiight. That's why
we've been wandering around in circles.." He paused as a pair of doors
swished open diagonally, then continued. ".. Oh, look: There's junction
J-34 AGAIN; that's what? 5 times in as many minutes?"
Misato turned on her heel and glared at him. "Oh, SHUT UP! Just
be quiet and follow me, OK?"
Shinji wisely stayed silent; that is, until junction J-34 came
into view for the sixth time. "We're hopelessly lost. Give me the map."
Misato complied, handing it to him over her shoulder with a
disgruntled 'Fine'. Shinji looked at it for a moment, then turned it
sideways. They passed a door - which, oddly enough, was clicking -
before Shinji asked the important question. "Just where ARE we going,
anyway?"
The answer of "Nowhere, fast" came from behind him, catching him
by surprise. He turned quickly to face the newcomer, wondering how she
had snuck up on him. It was embarrassingly obvious: The clicking doors
had been an elevator; standing inside was an attractive woman with blond
hair. Shinji looked her over: lab coat, a high-collared blue silk shirt
with a pull-ring zipper and a black skirt. She also wore a look of mild
annoyance.
"You're late, CAPTAIN Katsuragi."
Her tone carried 'mild' annoyance to new levels. Misato winced.
"Eh heh heh.. Hi ya, Ritsuko.."
"So late.." Ritsuko continued, "That they sent ME to find you.
We don't have the time or the man power for this."
"Well, I.. You know.. I mean-"
Ritsuko sighed, cutting her friend off. She then glanced at
Shinji, who was nonchalantly leaning against the corridor wall, watching
them. "Is this him? The Third Child?"
"Yes. Shinji, introduce yourself."
Shinji nodded, came forward, and bowed. "I'm Ikari Shinji.
Pleased to meet you."
Ritsuko, slightly amused, bowed somewhat. "Akagi Ritsuko.
Resident Doctor, Scientist, and Supervisor of Project E. If you have any
questions, please feel free to ask. My door is open, if you need to see
me at anytime."
"Thank you. I'll try to remember that."
"Well then, since we are currently under attack, I think we
should be going. Don't you, Captain?"
Misato nodded, then folded her arms. Her head fell and the
normally hyper-cheerful Misato became rather somber. "Is the Commander
still planning to..?"
"Yes, and no."
[_}~`\-/'~{_]
^ " ^
Ayanami Rei tiredly crawled out of the entry plug and onto the
surrounding catwalks. She set her shaking frame down and leaned her back
against the purple giant's shoulder. She was weary.
But it was more than that.
'No time for such thoughts now,' she chided herself mentally as
she pulled her knees up to her chest, the material of the plug suit
making a squishy scrunching sound. Her body, mind, and soul were
fatigued. The constant testing, probing, analyzing, scynchrograph
readings, and now live combat.. all had taken their toll on her.
She desperately needed a break, but as long as she was the only
one who could pilot the Eva, she could not rest. Piloting is what she
would have to do.
A familiar shadow fell across her, and she addressed it without
looking. "Is this why he is here? Shinji? Will you make him ride as
well?"
Ikari Gendou sighed. He had to tell her. He owed her that much.
"I will give him the choice I could not afford to give you."
"And if he refuses?" She asked, looking up to the older man.
Gendou's gaze softened slightly. Rei's hair fell into her eyes, only
slightly masking the tears which began to fall. She knew the answer, but
she also knew she would fail. And her demise would mean Shinji's as
well.
Gendou supplied the answer she dreaded.
"Then you shall pilot it again.. alone."
[_}~`\-/'~{_]
^ " ^
"First wave personnel to battle stations!" The P.A. screeched,
"Repeat, first wave personnel to battle stations!!"
Ritsuko removed her gaze from the speaker above to her
companions on the stairs below. "It must be moving again."
"The angel?" Shinji queried as he reached the doctor's level,
Misato gasping not far behind.
"Prepare to launch Anti-Ground Attack Units One and Zero!" the
P.A. system belched before Ritsuko could answer. From behind him, Shinji
could hear Misato groan.
"They.. *gasp!*; have got to be.. kidding.." Said the wheezing
captain as she tried to regain her breath. "..Right? Rei's probably..
injured and Unit Zero hasn't even been fully activated yet.."
"It has a point zero eight one one seven nine four percent
chance of activating.."
"That's not even a full numeral!" Misato countered.
"Still, it's not a negative. And if we can activate two units at
once.."
"Save your survivability profiles for someone who cares.
Kizuko's still in the hospital, so you don't have a pilot." At this,
Ritsuko remained silent - yet that was all the answer Misato needed. She
covered her mouth and suppressed the cry of grief and outrage she could
feel swelling within her breast. "Oh my god.." she murmured, "You were
right. The Commander really is going to.. *Haaa*" she gasped, realizing
just who could over hear her. Shinji's eyes narrowed slightly.
"The final choice isn't the Commander's.." Ritsuko whispered
fiercely to her friend as she took her aside, "It's HIS."
`Something is going on here..` Shinji thought as a faint
vibration swept through the building. He looked high over head to see
the ceiling lights slowly begin to sway. `Why do I get the feeling I'm
going to regret ever receiving that letter?` He asked himself. Then
aloud, "Shouldn't we get going?"
Ritsuko turned her head, speaking to him over her shoulder. "We
are here. We only need to take the final step. Are you ready, Misato?"
As the younger woman nodded, Ritsuko strode forward and swiped a
card through a reader. It beeped, and the wall next to the landing
pulled apart into darkness. Shinji, not knowing what else to do, vainly
attempted to follow Ritsuko's advice of watching his step as the three
of them entered. The massive door closed, and all was silent.
The lights came on with a resounding *ClacK!*, and Shinji found
himself looking into the glassy surface of a single, cycloptic eye.
"'Holy Schinikies!' What is this?" He asked in awe.
"This," A voice emerged from the shadows above the yellow giant,
"Is Evangelion Unit Zero. And you, Ikari Shinji, shall pilot it."
Shinji forced his eyes from the Eva's blank stare to meet the
unwavering gaze of Ikari Gendou. "Father.."
From the observation window above, Gendou cracked a small smile.
"Been awhile, eh?"
Shinji stared up at his father with his mouth open for a few
moments. Then he began to laugh. It was a hollow, haunting sound with no
mirth involved. It was a sound born from cynicism. It was wholly
inappropriate for the situation, but it continued.
Ritsuko glanced at Misato, who raised an eyebrow and shrugged at
the unasked question. (What's going on? I don't know, ask him.) Ritsuko
frowned, and Misato shook her head. (I'm not going to ask him, You ask
him. Nah-uh, you're the one who cares, YOU ask.) Ritsuko sighed, Misato
striking a victory pose - which she quickly dropped at the Commander's
disapproving glance and Ritsuko's glare. (Alright.. I'll ask him. Heh, I
won again! Hey, I heard that! You Idiots.)
During this unspoken exchange, Shinji had stopped laughing.
"That is just so like you, Father! You don't give a damn about me for ten
years; then when you have a use for me, you whistle." He said quietly,
staring at his shoes. As he lifted his gaze to meet that of his
father's, he continued, "Do you really expect me to always jump at your
beck and call? This is your one chance. You have forty five seconds to
convey just WHY I am needed here. And it had DAMN well better be good,
Father." Gendou smiled, and his eyes narrowed at his father's bemused
expression.
"Shinji, You will use the Evangelion to battle the angel. Why?
Because if you do not, all of mankind shall perish in fiery oblivion."
Shinji folded his arms across his chest and let go of the anger
inside of him. "All right. Clocks' stopped, you have my attention. Now
explain: Why am I needed to do this?"
Before Gendou could answer, another voice emerged from the
shadows, along with its owner. Shinji recognized her. It was the girl
from the street.
"I can't do this alone. That is why you are needed." She said.
She was dressed in what appeared to be a wet suit, and crossed her arms
around her stomach. "I am Ayanami Rei. First child, and designated pilot
of Evangelion Unit One. And if you will not help me to defeat this
threat.. then I will die, alone, in the attempt."
A brief look of concern flashed across Shinji's face, his left
arm falling to the side while the other gestured towards Rei. "Wait..
You were the pilot of the purple robot, right?"
"Strictly speaking, these are not robots." Ritsuko informed from
behind him. "They are man made, all purpose weapons for the war to end
all wars.. Artificial Human Evangelion."
Shinji almost jumped out of his skin. "'ARTIFICIAL HUMAN'?!? Is
that why you have them so restrained? Are they going to get up and walk
away?"
"You may rest assured, that while such an improbable thing, in
most variables, could never occur.. It is still a possibility; and no
matter how remote that possibility may be, we must be cautious." Gendou
said.
Shinji turned to his father. 'That is the stupidest crock of
shit I've ever heard..' He thought. `If a chicken can live with only the
lower portion of its cerebellum intact, then what of us?' "How do you
plan on controlling these.. 'Evangelions'?"
A brief tremor shook the building, and Gendou attempted to
briefly explain. "We have devised a system which we call the 'Entry
Plug', a large cylindrical device in which a pilot is enclosed, and then
inserted into the Unit's spinal cord. Without the plug, none of the
impulses from the brain of the Unit may get through. With the plug, the
pilot serves as the brain of the Unit."
"And what if the pilot is knocked unconscious? Or if there is no
pilot inside this 'Entry Plug'?"
"Then.." Rei began, hesitating slightly, "There is the
possibility of the unit going berserk. Or rather.. of the Unit
controlling itself, as do you and I. If such a thing were to occur.. I
only hope the Evangelions will fight for us." Rei hugged herself
tightly. "If not.. then humanity may be twice damned.."
"..." Shinji shook his head. "I don't like this one bit. This
entire situation reeks of disaster." Out of the corner of his eye, he
could almost see Rei's spirit fall. "But.. I'll help you. Under
three conditions."
"What are they?"
"One: I'm on the pay roll."
"Agreed."
"Two: There is no way this side of your personal hell that I'm
going to live with you."
"Of course."
"Three: Tell me. Is this why you sent me to be trained? Answer
me, Father! Is this the purpose you had for me all along?!?"
Gendou shook his head. "Your training was your mother's idea. if
you have a complaint, register it now. If not, then prepare yourself for
battle."
His fists clenched tightly, he had known his training was due to
his mother. And through it all, Shinji had but one question. "Why? Why
did she place me on this path?"
It was Rei who gave him the answer he had both wanted, and yet
had also known all along.
"A Martial Artist's duty, his honor, lies not with himself, but
in helping and protecting those in need - those who cannot, or will not,
defend themselves - to the best of his ability. In this, and for this,
you have been trained; have you not?"
Shinji dropped his head and closed his eyes. 'Mother knew this
was going to happen all along..' he shook his head, then turned to
Ritsuko. "I'll do it."
Rei silently came from behind him, and he only registered her
presence as she touched his back. "Thank you." She said. Then she was
gone.
Gendou, high above, smiled a slow resentful smile. It would
work.
It had to.
[_}~`\-/'~{_]
^ " ^
"So then, Shinji.. You understand the reason behind this test?"
Ritsuko asked over the comn.
From the confines of Unit-00's entry plug, He nodded. "With the
Angel above, making sure I'm able to pilot seems like a good idea.. But
I'm still not clear on how to pilot this.." Shinji gestured around
himself, "..Thing.."
From inside Unit-01's entry plug, and already inserted into the
Eva, Rei smiled. "Think, and it shall be done. But do not dwell on the
goal, but of the very essence of the action you wish to take."
"Oh, THAT helps. Might as well tell me to run on instinct.." He
muttered.
"Shinji: Run on instinct." Said a voice over the comn.
Shinji narrowed his eyes as the door of the entry plug swung
into position. "Oh, Thanks Father. You're a REAL help."
"Don't mention it. Inject the entry plug!" From his desk in the
command center of Nerv, Gendou watched as Ibuki swiftly complied.
"Roger! Inserting entry plug!" Maya's fingers flew across the
keys, routing commands to the Magi and other sub-systems. "Plug lock-in
procedure complete! Initiating first contact and flooding entry plug!"
Inside Unit-00, Shinji was immensely glad for that liquid oxygen
dive training last summer, but found it amazing that he could still
talk. "What in the hell? It this even..? It isn't! You know this is
physically impossible, don't you?!"
A small box with Ritsuko inside popped into his view. "Just
except it."
"But..!" It was obvious he couldn't.
"Look, just except the fact and get on with it!"
"But I..!"
"No 'But's!"
"I! You! GyAh.." Shinji's arms waived wildly, his hands forming
several interesting gestures. He tensed for a moment, then let it go.
"Yes ma'am.." he sighed in abject defeat.
"Better."
The box winked out of existence as weird things began to
happen.. First floating words, then some type of graph followed by
sparkling lights.. Shaking his head, he tried to focus on Ibuki's voice
and concentrated on not having a bad trip.
The lightshow stopped and the world became red, almost a blood
colored sheen. Shinji waited a moment, believing this to be normal.
Then it spoke. Not in words, but in images flashing through his
mind with an intensity akin to a raging fire. Shinji couldn't help the
small gasp of pain and surprise.
It was Hers. Not Rei, but someone identical to her. This was her
Eva, her soul had taken the Evangelion's massive bulk as its own
residence. He screamed in pain as it attempted to rip out the very thing
which made him Human and replace it with what, to his distorted
perceptions, seemed nothing more than a man made mockery.
Then the invasion stopped. An image appeared in his field of
vision, flawless white skin and blue hair an almost painful contrast to
the red ichor he floated in.
\You do not have permission\
\Why are you here, He Who Is The One\
He struggled with the pain and his mind to find an answer,
barely able to believe what was happening. "To prevent the death of the
innocent.. It's my obligation now! I must go, lemme go!"
\Why should I comply with you, He Who Is The One\
`This is insane..` he told himself, shaking his head to clear
it. "I don't have an answer for that, I don't even know what's going on
here! Just let me go! If you don't," He gestured around, "None of this
will matter! She won't exist! We'll all die!
\That is your perception, He Who Is The One\
Shinji blinked in confusion. "What do you mean, my perception?
The Angel is here!"
\So it would seem\
\What would He Who Is The One have me do about it?\
"Just let me go kill the damn thing already! You're wasting
time!"
The image of the Rei look-alike smiled ruefully for a moment
before speaking again.
\I shall help He Who Is The One, I shall give He Who Is The One
the knowledge needed to Ride\
\Be warned, however\
\Come inside me again without permission and I shall destroy the
soul of He Who Is The One\
"Just what the hell do you mean by that?"
Shinji received no answer as the world seen through the eye of
an Eva came sharply into focus; Ibuki's voice faded rapidly, saying:
"Opening reciprocal circuits."
He found his head swimming with pain, and a dark sense of
foreboding took root within his soul. Surprisingly, no time seemed to
have elapsed while he was in communication with Unit-00. He wanted to
say something about what had happened - although, try as he might, his
voice failed him. Just what could he say that wouldn't sound like a
frightened child making lame excuses to get out of saving the world?
In the end, Shinji hardened his resolve and said nothing. No
matter what, the Angel would die, and that was all that truly mattered
at the moment.
Wasn't it?
[_}~`\-/'~{_]
^ " ^
From inside the control room, Ritsuko was in shock. "This.. is
amazing.." She whispered. "Synchro errors are within point two percent..
It's going to work!" She said, turning to Misato.
"But, can we REALLY do this to him?" Misato turned to the
commander, knowing even as she asked what the answer would be.
"Of course. If we fail to defeat the angels, Humanity has no
future. Proceed, captain Katsuragi."
Misato turned back to Ritsuko. "Are the Eva's ready?"
"Primary and secondary restraints have been released, and all
preparations are complete."
"Gates 4 and 5 are clear, Eva's loaded and ready for launch
sequence." Ibuki added.
"Then let's do this.." Misato muttered. "Evangelion Units Zero
and One, Launch!"
Inside Unit-00, Shinji scowled as the electromagnetic rail
system sent the Eva rocketing towards the surface. In less than a
moment, he was above ground, Unit-01 some distance to his right. But
that was not what concerned him, it was the Angel.
Sachiel blinked both sets of eyes. Very disconcerting, rather,
yes. Either this four-eye thing had him seeing double, or there really
were two of these dark servants of the Lillim.
`Wait a minute,` Sachiel blinked again, recognizing the battle
between the purple servant's soul and that of its rider which was absent
from the orange/yellow servant, `those is two dark servants of the
Lillim`
That thought was quickly followed by another as Sachiel sized
the orange/yellow servant up. The servant's soul seemed to be almost
complementing that of the riders, although the link between them was non
existent. And as for the rider..
Shinji glared at the Angel, wanting nothing more than for the
final safety locks to release, so he could jump on it and pummel it to
death. Unit-00 did as Shinji did, its single eye reflecting the
surrounding light in an almost ominous manner.
Sachiel began to sweat. `Oh, shit.`
[_}~`\-/'~{_]
^ " ^
"Release final safety locks! Rei, concentrate on the Angel.
Shinji, I want you to try-"
"Negative, Captain!" Came Rei's voice from the comn, "The
Angel's ignoring me, it's heading straight towards Shinji!"
Misato's eyes widened. "What?!? Rei, stop the Angel!"
Unit-01 ran from its harness, coming along side Sachiel. Rei
made a grab for the Angel, but it evaded, turning on her.
Inside Unit-00, Shinji narrowed his eyes. "Let's do this." He
said, confusing the entire Command staff.
"Shinji, what do yo.." Misato started, only to drop off as the
Evangelion leapt into the air. Ritsuko dropped her pencil, the sound
echoing through the silent command center.
"He.. He shouldn't be able to do that.." The doctor murmured.
As Unit-00 came down on Sachiel with a mighty kick, Misato
agreed with as much intelligence she could muster. "Uh-huh."
[_}~`\-/'~{_] Neon Genesis Evangelion: Honor's Duty
^ " ^ Stanza Two: Retrograde
End