TRUE WAR
CHAPTER 10
BY WONGA316
COPYRIGHT AND DISCLAIMER I don't own Neon Genesis or any of its characters. If you want to use any ideas in the fiction just drop me an email –
AUTHOR'S NOTES This is my first attempt at a Neon Genesis fan fiction, so please be gentle. This scenario doesn't take into account the final 2 movies / episodes and Toji never lost his limbs during this activation test. Some of the guys may seem OC to the die-hard fans. Sorry about this but I hope my ideas will make it worthwhile. Big thank you and applause to NateGold who proofread
"..." = Normal speech
[...] = Thoughts
-...- = Computer / phone / other chat (you will know what I mean...)
NERV HEADQUARTERS – HOLDING CELL
Shinji woke to the soft sounds of humming. His eyes slowly focused on Yui's calm features. She was cradling his head in her lap, humming and stroking his hair like he was a newborn child. His movements alerted her.
"Oh... I'm sorry sweetie. Did I wake you?" Shinji looked up at her mother and just stared. His eyes slowly took in every detail of her face and burned them into his memory. "Is there something wrong?" Yui asked worriedly.
"I just... I just can't believe that it's really you. I mean... I don't even remember your face but somehow I knew; I don't know how but at the same time I didn't want it to be true." Shinji said reaching up touching Yui's face.
"Why's that?" She asked.
"If it was true then that means everything else that happened was true. The Angels, Eva, father... everything." Shinji said sadly sitting up.
"I'm so sorry Shinji..." Yui began, voice choking up. "I should have been there for you and Rei. I would have given anything to be able to do things differently."
"Then tell me why. Why did you have to get into that Eva?" Shinji asked with clenched teeth, keeping a tight grip on his emotions.
"We thought it was the only way to keep you safe... When we first learnt about the Angels and when the Eva series were developed we knew that only one species would survive the war. Your fath... Rokobungi and I believed that this was the best way to ensure that you got to live the life that you deserved. Free from war and destruction. Free to do what you wanted." Yui looked away, thinking that her worst fears were coming true [He hates me...!]
"Father..." Shinji growled. He walked over to the opposite side of the room and threw a single punch. The sound of his knuckles impacting with the wall startled Yui. "... Did he force you?"
"Force me?" Yui asked.
"To get into the Eva."
"No he didn't... He actually tried to convince me not to, but I insisted." Yui answered, "I watched your conversation with Kaji. I'll understand if you want to leave. I... know that... I failed you as a mother and I can never make it up to you..." Her voice broke, tears streaming down her face.
Shinji looked on, suddenly filled with remorse and realization. [Oh, my god, she's blaming herself for all this! She thinks I hate her!] Shinji sat down next to her, holding her close. One hand cupped her chin, raising her face to look at him. "Hey, stop crying! It's not your fault...mom. It never was! Besides, self loathing is my specialty, remember?" He joked, eliciting a watery chuckle. "It's just when I think of what HE did to me, to all of us...well, I kind of lose it. Please don't cry! I don't blame you for anything. I...I love you, mom!" Yui looked up at her son, seeing the sincerity and warmth in his eyes. Then, without another word, she wrapped her arms around him, years of pain on both sides being eased in that one embrace.
It was sometime later when they released each other, Yui wiping her eyes with the back of her hand. "I'm sorry... It's just so good to have you back." Giving him a motherly kiss on the forehead.
"It's all right" Shinji paused, collecting his thoughts. "Can I ask..."
"Yes, of course. You must be wondering why, how and when..." Yui started rattling off, happy that Shinji had accepted her.
"Actually, I haven't even thought about that. I was wondering how long I was asleep?"
"Oh." Yui looked at her watch. "A good nine hours I'd say."
"Shit!" Shinji immediately slapped his hand across his mouth. "Sorry, I didn't mean..." he mumbled.
Yui chuckled lightly at her son's actions. "It's all right, love. You're all grown up now." Yui said, reaching over and caressing Shinji's check. "My baby boy's become a man." She said, her voice a mixture of pride and disappointment.
"Uh... Mom... I can call you that, can't I? I mean..." Shinji asked, little embarrassed by his question.
"Of course. I've waited so long to hear you say that." Yui said cupping his face. "You look so cute when you blush. Girls are going to be all over you." Yui commented, watching, amused as a blush spread over his features. "I think that I'm going to have to ask Kaji to assign additional Section Two agents just to keep you safe from them all." She then laughed as Shinji did an excellent imitation of a beetroot.
NERV HEADQUARTERS – CONFERENCE ROOM
"It's a good thing that I hid some of the cameras." Kaji stated as he watched the happy reunion of mother and son.
"I'm surprised that you actually did something right for a change." Ritsuko sniped.
"Hey, come on Ritsu. You should more faith in me." Replied Kaji. "Do you think we should wake her?" Kaji motioned over his shoulder to the sleeping form of Misato. She had insisted on remaining despite the requests of Kaji and Ritsuko to go home, and even after being ordered by Fyutsuki to leave. The others were more easily persuaded; being promised they'd be notified the second Shinji awoke.
"I'm not sure which is worse, knowing how grumpy she'll be when you wake her or how much more so she'll get when she finds Shinji's up and you didn't tell her" Ritsuko answered, knowing any scenario would be at Kaji's expense.
"Thanks for the support" came the dry response. Ritsuko merely winked in reply.
Kaji leaned over and gently shook Misato.
"Hey sleeping beauty... time to get up... Your prince charming is awake."
"Lemme alone..." Misato mumbled half asleep. "Not now Kaji, I got a headache... " Ritsuko could only laugh at her friend's response.
"Come on, Katsuragi, it's Shinji." Kaji said, trying to maintain a straight face, while Ritsuko laughed in the background.
"Huh? What? Kaji?" Misato blinked her eyes a few times and rubbed her face. She then turned her full attention on Kaji. "What the hell's the idea, waking me like that...?" Misato stopped mid sentence when she caught sight of the monitor that Ritsuko had left on. It showed Yui leaving the room as Shinji began changing into the workman's uniform.
"Oh my, Shinji has grown... wouldn't you say Misato?" Ritsuko commented as she watched Shinji undress. "I think he's going to give Kaji a good run for his money..."
"SHIN-CHAN" Misato screamed with joy, blowing past Kaji in one swift movement and bolting towards the door. Kaji, unprepared, was dumped unceremoniously on the ground.
"Damn! That woman has no self-control whatsoever..." Kaji complained as he picked himself off the floor.
NERV HEADQUARTERS – HOLDING CELL
"Is everything ok, sweetie?" Yui asked through the door, concerned about her son.
"I'm fine, mom... I've been dressing myself for a while, y'know?" Shinji open the door and stepped out. Yui took one look and started giggling. "What's so funny?" Shinji asked.
"Your shirt... it's inside out..." Yui said, pointing to the reversed Nerv logo on Shinji's chest. Shinji looked down, mortified when he saw she was right. Yui walked over to lend him a hand.
"MOM! I can do it myself...!" Shinji complained as his mother fussed over him. Then the faint echo of someone running gradually became louder. Shinji, shirt still partway over his head, was unable to see who it was.
"Shinji!" Misato yelled.
"Huh? Misato? " The shirt had just been removed when he was bowled off his feet, Misato cannoning into him.
"Oh dear..." Yui commented.
"Shinji, Shinji, Shinji ..." Misato repeated, straddling him and pulling him close. She pulled back momentarily, giving Shinji a moment to recover and regain his bearings...not to mention his breath.
"Misato...?" Misato didn't respond but brushed back Shinji's long bangs and held his head as she examined his features [That's Misato all right... She hasn't changed] "Misato are you O.K?"
[You've changed some much... You've grown into a man. Before you were cute but now you're handsome. Whenever I would look into your eyes back then I all saw was fear. Now I see confidence, strength... but you still have those eyes that a girl...or woman...can get lost in]
Shinji reached up and brushed a tear from Misato's cheek, bringing her back to reality. "Misato? Hey, you're starting to scare me..."
"Are you still my little Shinji?" Misato asked, voice quivering.
Shinji gently brushed the remaining tears from Misato's cheeks, smiling softly. "Yes, Misa-chan, I'm still me ...I'm still your Shin-chan..." Then just like Yui, Misato released five years of accumulated emotion she'd held within and cried into Shinji's neck. Yui got a bit teary-eyed herself as she watched the scene between the two.
OVER THE PACIFIC OCEAN
Keel pulled open the shade cover on his passenger window. The muted roar of the jet engines always bothered him when he tried to get some sleep. He looked out and could only see clouds and the edge of the learjet's wings. His attention was brought back when the flight attendant placed something on his table.
"Excuse me sir... This priority message was just received. It's from the sleeper."
"Thank you." Keel picked up the printed computer sheet and began to read. When he finished, he immediately picked up the satellite phone on his console and dialed. He held the hand piece to the side of his head and waited.
"It's me. I just got your report. Do you think he'll stay?" Keel asked bluntly. He nodded as his caller answered. "That doesn't matter. Do you think he'll stay?" The caller interrupted. "It still doesn't change anything. Just do your job." Keel end the call abruptly and signaled for the attendant. "Yes sir?"
"Dispose of this in the usual manner." Keel handed him the message. "And tell the pilot to return to Japan."
"Yes sir. Are you returning to the mansion?"
"No. Land at Kansai International. Have a car ready to take me to Tokyo Three."
"Yes sir." The flight attendant bowed formally, and left to process Keel's requests.
NERV HEADQUARTERS – ONE OF IT'S MANY HALLWAYS
After much convincing from Shinji that he was fine, Misato reluctantly released her hold on the former pilot. Shinji had reminded them that he needed to get access to a public phone and they were heading to the nearest exit. He pulled at the shirt where Misato had wiped her tears. The moisture and air-conditioning was starting to bother him.
"Is everything all right, Shinji?" Yui inquired, seeing that something bothered her son.
"Just a little cool, that's all" Yui smiled.
"Is my Shin-chan cold? Misato will warm you up." The major teased as she wrapped her arms around the young man.
"Woah!" Shinji was taken by surprise and lost his balance momentarily. "Come on Misato... I have to get to a phone." Yui laughed at her son's byplay with the Major.
"But you might get a cold! I wouldn't want that to happen." Misato replied, propping her chin on Shinji's left shoulder. "Mmm... You've grown so much. I have get on my tippy toes just to reach you."
"Let's go Misato." Yui said. "Shinji? Who do you have to call so urgently?"
"Oh... Ah..." [How should I explain this...? Would she get upset...? Mom and Misato might think that I'm replacing them. May be I did...] Misato let go and whipped around to hear Shinji's explanation. She had totally forgotten about his request to use a phone when Kaji was with him and his hesitation to answer added to her curiosity.
"Ah... to be totally honest... I'm not really comfortable saying... I'm sorry." [Great excuse Shinji! They're just going to probe you more.]
"Has Shinji found a girlfriend?" Misato teased, leaning closer as she spoke.
"WHAT! No! It's just..."
"Just what Shinji? You found someone more prettier than your Misa-chan" Misato pretended to be upset and turned away quickly [This just too easy... I missed it so much]
"No! That's not true..."
"Oh, you still think I'm pretty." Misato giggled like a schoolgirl. "But this is all so sudden. I mean we have the age difference. Bare in mind it's not that much and you are legally an adult..."
"You haven't changed, have you Misato?" asked Shinji, little embarrassed by his former guardian's behavior.
"I'll never change for you Shinji." She purred. "Unless you want me to..."
"Oh, like into that little purple teddy with the garters and fishnets?" He deadpanned. Misato, however, took it in stride, striking a coquettish pose.
"You're having fun, aren't you?" Shinji smiled, knowing what Misato's teasing usually involved.
Misato winked at the young man and planted a kiss on his check. "You know I am..."
"All right, while I was away, I stayed with someone. She..."
"She?" Misato and Yui enquired.
"Yes... She gave me a room and I helped her around the bar she ran in return." [They don't need to know the finer details unless they ask]
"Is that all?" Misato asked. "I thought it would something big..."
"Yes. Why did you feel like you had to hide it from us?" Asked Yui.
"Well... I didn't want to upset either of you. I thought that you would think that I was be replacing the both of you." Shinji said sheepily, looking away. A pair of hand then cupped his face and brought him up.
"Shinji... that's very sweet of you but I want you to know that you can come tell me anything and you don't have to afraid." Yui said softy.
"That's right, Shinji. We're here for you. Always remember that." Misato added, placing a warm hand on his shoulder.
Shinji breathed a sigh of relief. "Thanks... I just thought that you would hate me or something for leaving and finding someone else..."
Yui kept her hands on Shinji's cheeks. "Shinji, I would never hate you no matter what you did. I'll always love you no matter what. I'll always be your mother."
Shinji just nodded as Yui pulled him into another hug. "Everything is going to be all right now... Shinji's back. Ooh, I have to organize a welcome home party..." Misato began rattling off her plans for the evenings. "I have to ring everyone. They still don't know that you're up yet..."
[...But am I back...?]
GEO FRONT – RESIDENTIAL APARTMENTS
Rei woke to the annoying chime of the front door bell. It was strange for her to sleep in but the recent events had weighed heavily on her mind. She slowly put on her dressing gown and headed towards the door. The heating wasn't turned on and the cold tiled floor forced her to quickly skip across. She entered the release code in the keypad for the door. It beeped and hissed opened, revealing Touji, Hikari, Kensuke, Asuka and Mana all dressed in their respective Nerv uniforms.
"Jeez... Took you long enough, wonder girl." Auska complained.
"What do you want?" Rei asked flatly.
"Ah... Sorry to disturb you Rei but we were on our way to see Shinji and were wondering if you would like to come along." Hikari said, sensing the possible tension between the two pilots.
Rei just nodded and stepped aside "Please come in. I'll have to dress." Asuka, Mana and Hikari filed in. Kensuke and Touji stood in their tracks, staring a section of Rei's chest where the dressing gown had failed to cover her extremely sheer nightie.
"What's taking you two..."? Hikari asked but stopped when she noticed Kensuke and Touji's excessive interest in Rei's chest. Rei quickly covered herself as Hikari reacted accordingly.
Asuka had just finished filling the kettle in the kitchen when two loud slaps could be heard from the hallway. "What was that?" Mana asked.
"Those two will never change..."
TOYKO 3 – CITY STREETS
Shinji watched the people of Tokyo 3 resume their day-to-day business. The majority of the damage from the Angel attack had been cleaned up and city engineers deemed the remaining buildings and structures safe for the public. There was still repair work being done but allowing people to return to their daily routines gave the sense that Nerv was doing it's job, if not destroying the Angels and saving mankind was enough. Yui was waiting patiently for him by the Nerv car with her ever-present security detail across the street. She gave a friendly wave as Shinji dialed Aya's number. He necked the phone receiver and waved back as he waited for the other side to ring.
After a few rings, a groggy voice answered the phone. "What?"
"Hey George. It's Shinji." Shinji recognized the voice straight away.
-Shinji? Where the hell have y...- A brief scuffle interrupted George then a female voice followed. -SHINJI! WHERE THE HELL HAVE YOU BEEN! I HEARD ABOUT THE ATTACK ON THE NEWS. ARE YOU OK?-
Shinji pulled the receiver away as Aya screaming was to loud for him to take. "Ah... Sorry..." Was all Shinji could said.
-Sorry?! Damn, child you scared me half to death.- Aya replied –Are you hurt? Is everything ok?-
"Yeah, I'm fine but things are... a little complicated."
-What do you mean complicated? Are you in trouble?-
"No, It's just that I've managed to catch up with some of my... old friends."
-Old friends? You don't sound too sure about yourself? What's going on Shinji?-
"There are a couple of things that I have to sort out before I can come back. It's nothing I can't handle. I'll just be spending a couple of more days here. That's all."
-...All right... but just call if you need anything. Do you have enough money? What about some spare clothes?-
"I'll be fine." Shinji looked at the Nerv emblem on the side of the Yui's car. "It's not that long in any case. I'll give you a call before I leave, ok."
-Fine... but just don't do that again! The old heart isn't what it use to...-
"Jeeze! Sounds like you were actually worried about me?" Shinji joked, trying to lighten Aya's mood.
-Smart-arse! Just be careful, Shinji...-
"Thanks Aya, I will." Shinji hung up the phone and withdrew the phone card from its slot [How the hell am I going to tell everyone? Misato is planning this huge party for me... and mom... What am I doing to do?] Shinji ran his hand through his hair. He noticed that it was course and gritty.
"Damn LCL... I hate that stuff." He cursed as he crossed the street, towards Yui.
NERV HEADQUARTERS – EMPLOYEE CAFETERIA
Asuka was first to enter the cafeteria and scanned the entire room for anyone that could tell her of Shinji's whereabouts. She had already visited the holding cell where Shinji had been housed and found it empty. Her next stop was Section Two and Kaji but his personal assistant told her that he asked not to be disturbed unless it was an emergency. Ritsuko, Fuyutuski and the bridge crew who had pulled a double shift had gone home to get some much need rest.
"This is unbelievable! How can everyone go home?" Asuka curse. "Who is running this organization? What if an Angel decided to attack or there was some sort of emergency?"
"They worked all night Asuka." Hikari answered, walking up beside her. "What use would they be totally exhausted? Kaji is still on shift."
"That's not the point! And where's Misato? I know she didn't come home last night." Asuka retorted.
"Damn machine! All I want is my morning coffee!" Asuka's question was answered when the Major banged the side of the vending machine. "Piece of junk!" Asuka zeroed in on the disturbance and quickly headed over.
The machine eventually released a disposable cup and started dispensing dark steaming liquid. "About time." Misato rubbed the underside of her fist where she beat the side of the machine. The coffee machine clicked as it finished filling the cup. Just before Misato could reach for her long awaited coffee, another hand grabbed her wrist and spun her around. "What the?!"
"Where is he?!" Asuka demanded.
"And a good morning to you too, Asuka!" Misato answered coolly as she grabbed her coffee.
"Good morning Major" Hikari greeted.
"Oh, good morning Hikari." Misato said pleasantly between sips. "At least someone around here knows how to greet a person properly." Misato finished turning towards Asuka.
"Whatever. Are you going to answer my question?" Asuka replied.
"Sorry, I must have missed it. What was it again?" Misato decided to string Asuka along for a little while to get her back. The three made their way over to an available table in the eating area.
"Where is he?" Asuka asked again trying to keep her voice down.
"I'm sorry... who is it you are looking for?" Asuka slammed her fist onto the table, gaining the attention of other NERV employees.
"You know who. Stop playing games!"
"I didn't get much sleep last night, Asuka. So I'm not as switched on as I usually am. I had quite an exciting morning visiting Shinji..." Misato teased, knowing full well what Asuka was asking.
Hikari ignored the argument between Asuka and Misato knowing that they liked to irritate each other. "I wonder where the guys went to?"
"Hey Kensuke, spot me a couple of Yen?" Touji asked as he stood at the cafeteria check out.
"What?! We just had breakfast. Are you hungry again?" Kensuke complained.
"How many times have I saved your life while in the EVA? You'd think someone would be a bit more grateful..."
"You haven't even defeated an Angel yet!" Kensuke argued.
Hikari let her head hit the table as Kensuke and Touji continued to argue and Misato had gotten Asuka to the point where she was kneeling on the table and tugging on her jacket.
NERV HEADQUARTERS – PILOT'S CHANGE ROOM
Shinji had mentioned that he needed a shower and told Yui that he would meet her in the cafeteria when done. He noticed that they had removed the makeshift curtain and renovated a new section for the female pilots. He scanned the lockers and was surprised that Touji's name was written on one of then. Even more surprising was that they hadn't removed his locker. Shinji inspected it, noting that it hadn't been disturbed for some time. [Why would they still have my locker here? Did they really think I would come back?] Shinji went to open it but stopped short and shook his head [They probably just forgot or got lazy...] he then stepped into the showers, trying to not think too much about it.
"...But we didn't forget about you..." Rei whispered as she waited patiently outside the change rooms.
NERV HEADQUARTERS – EMPLOYEE CAFETERIA
For a woman who had been awake for the past eighteen and half hours, Yui Ikari was feeling refreshed and completely energized. She grabbed a food tray and proceeded down the aisle collecting dishes that she fancied would be tasty [I wonder what Shinji would want for breakfast? I'd better get a bit of everything...]. By the time she reached the cashier her tray held more than enough food.
"Feeling hungry this morning commander?" The cashier asked, as she tallied the total amount.
"Oh no. Some of it is for my son..." [My son... that's the first time I have spoken those words.]
"You mean the pilot of Unit One?"
"Yes. He returned yesterday."
"Well it's a good thing he did or that Angel would have been more than we could handle." As Yui's conversation continued, Misato and Asuka waged their verbal battle on the other side of the room.
"You think this is funny?!" Asuka spat at the smirking Misato.
"I actually think it's quite sweet that you care so much for Shinji's well being?"
"What?! It's not..." Touji was trying to defend his breakfast from Mana who had managed to snatch a piece of toast. Hikari was hounding Touji for eating his second breakfast and not sharing. Kensuke was counting the remaining Yen in his wallet after paying for Touji.
"It's not what? Come on Asuka, we're both adults now. There's nothing to be ashamed of. I have to admit Shinji's has grown to be quite the hotty."
[I'll say, and that's understating it!] Mana flushed slightly at her memories of Shinji on the monitor.
"Well... Some of us aren't tramps like yourself." Asuka said unconvincingly, trying to get the image of the Shinji from her dreamscape out of her mind.
"That's Major to you, Asuka."
"Like I said, a Major tramp..."
"You know if I was only twelve years younger Shinji would be in a lot of trouble." Misato then decided to put the final nail in the coffin. "Actually, Shinji is an adult now... So there wouldn't be any problem if we started something." She finished smirking.
Touji and Mana began coughing and choking on their food as Kensuke and Hikari just stared at the Major.
"And what makes you think that Shinji would go out with a someone like yourself?" Asuka growled, refusing to admit to the possibility that Shinji would prefer Misato over her.
"You have a point there... I guess I'll just have to ask him and find out."
NERV HEADQUARTERS – PILOT CHANGE ROOMS
Shinji walked out, feeling refreshed and clean. He didn't have a comb and his semi dry hair fell about. [May be I need a haircut. It's getting annoying] Shinji brushed the stray locks away from his face.
"Shinji..." A quiet voice spoke. Shinji tried to turn around to see who it was but a pair of arms wrapped around him from behind stopping him. "I... missed you..."
Shinji recognized Rei's voice and placed his hands over her arms. "I missed you too, Rei." Shinji heard Rei's muffled cries and felt his back getting damp from her tears. [She's crying? I've never seen Rei cry before... how did she know I was here?]
"Why?" Rei whispered, that single word having more impact than any tirade of questions or abuse.
Shinji thought for a moment before answering. "I think we should find the others. I'm sure that they'd like to know as well." He turned around to face her [Wow... Rei's changed... She actually looks... I hate to say it but more human] Rei looked up at his calm ocean blue eyes and just nodded. Shinji was surprised when she grabbed his hand, leading him towards the cafeteria. He didn't see her tears replaced with a slight blush and small smile as they walked.
They were half way there when someone got their attention. "Only here for a day and already found yourself a girlfriend... good man, Shinji." They turned around to see a grinning Kaji carrying a stack of reports.
"Agent Kaji." Rei greeted formally, not releasing Shinji's hand.
"Kaji?! I... I'm..." Shinji tried to formulate an answer.
"That's o.k, Shinji. I'm just kidding."
"No, it's not that... When I first woke up...I said and did some things that were uncalled for and..."
"Don't worry about it." Kaji made a dismissive motion with his hand. "Look, if you want to make up for it, how about buying us some breakfast and we'll call it even. Deal?"
"Deal" said Shinji, extending his hand, which Kaji shook, renewing the old bond they shared.
"We are actually on our way to the cafeteria. Would you like to join us?" Rei asked.
"Perfect. Just let me drop these off at the Commander's office before he's back on shift." Kaji led them on a detour to Fuyutsuki's office.
NERV HEADQUARTERS – EMPLOYEE CAFETERIA
"You wouldn't...!"
"Why not? It's been a while since I've been out on a proper date. I'm sure Shinji will be the perfect gentleman. There's that new French restaurant downtown..."
"Well then, I guess I 'll just have to ask Kaji." Asuka fired back, knowing that Kaji was the only real weakness for Misato.
"Kaji? What?" Misato's cocky attitude died instantly. "As if Kaji would go out with you?"
"Why? You're not seeing him at the moment, so he's fair game."
"Well... the same goes for Shinji! It's not as if you have your name on him."
"Who says I'm after Shinji anyway? I just want to know why he left me!"
"Don't you mean 'us' Asuka?" Hikari asked, amused by the show Misato and Asuka were giving.
"Yeah that's what I said!"
"Don't think so red. I'm pretty sure that you said 'me'. What do you think Ken?" Touji asked after taking a sip of his orange juice.
"Yep. No doubt about it."
"What hell the would you two know! The four-eyes here hasn't even had a girlfriend before!"
"Temper, temper... It's no wonder Shinji le... HEY!" Asuka turned her attack from Misato to Kensuke. She held him by the collar of his lab coat and reeled her fist back. "TOUJI! HELP!"
"Excuse me Misato, is this seat taken." Yui asked, interrupting Asuka's attack. Everyone stopped to look at the Vice Commander. "Oh I guess this must reserved for Shinji... right Misato?"
"What? How long have you been there?" Misato was turning redder by the minute, dreading how much Yui might have overheard.
"Long enough to know that my boy has quite a following..." Yui winked at Asuka who instantly released Kensuke and went very quiet. "But I have to say..." Yui finally did take the vacant seat next to Misato and took a sip of her coffee "...Rei is with Shinji right now."
"WHAT?!" Asuka exclaimed.
"Oh yes... Shinji wanted a take a shower so I told him that I would meet him here. I bumped into Rei who wanted to wait for him." Yui explained. "Is there something wrong Asuka?"
"What? No!" [Damn wonder girl!]
"Yui... I was wondering...how much did you... what I mean is... I was only joking with Asu..."
"What?! Are you saying that your feelings for Shinji's aren't true? How dare you play with his heart like that?" Yui rasped, convincingly acting the outraged mother. Inwardly, she was struggling, trying to contain an explosion of laughter. [This is actually fun. I can see why she revs Asuka up so much.]
"NO! I LOVE..." Misato slapped her hand across her face mouth knowing whatever she say would have repercussions.
"YOU WHAT?!" The others yelled, while Yui, poker-faced, continued with her breakfast.
"Shin-man you dog! You have Misato on... AAAHHH!" Touji copped a swift kick from Hikari before he could finish his lewd comment.
"Major! That's so indecent!" Hikari exclaimed.
"What's so indecent?" Kaji asked. "I hope Misato wasn't telling you about those two weeks while we were at University."
"Kaji?!" Misato asked, sinking deeper into her seat. "Who else is here?" she pleaded to the Gods.
"Hi guys..." Shinji said hesitantly. His hands were in his pockets and Rei had her arm looped around his. "Long time no see..."
AUTHOR'S NOTES Chapter 10 done! Thanks to NateGold for proofreading. I got a review that my content still contained spelling and grammar mistakes and that I should find a new proofreader. I'd just like to say this fanfic isn't supposed to be taken seriously. If we miss a few or all of the errors then so what. It's not as if I'm trying to make a living from doing this or pretend that I'm a best selling author. All I can say is take the work as it comes. Plus I think the majority you out there know what I'm trying to get across in any case.
Apologies to the guys who were expecting some action and just got WAFF but it came very easily. I hope I raised some interest in Keel's Learjet conversation. Let me know if you want it swung bad or good. I'm still undecided. Just who is the mysterious sleeper?
The next chapter will be similar but more of a focus on what happen during Shinji's 'missing years'. Some of the things that you may have pickup up in the earlier chapters will be explained further in chapter 11 and 12.
Wonga316
CHAPTER 10
BY WONGA316
COPYRIGHT AND DISCLAIMER I don't own Neon Genesis or any of its characters. If you want to use any ideas in the fiction just drop me an email –
AUTHOR'S NOTES This is my first attempt at a Neon Genesis fan fiction, so please be gentle. This scenario doesn't take into account the final 2 movies / episodes and Toji never lost his limbs during this activation test. Some of the guys may seem OC to the die-hard fans. Sorry about this but I hope my ideas will make it worthwhile. Big thank you and applause to NateGold who proofread
"..." = Normal speech
[...] = Thoughts
-...- = Computer / phone / other chat (you will know what I mean...)
NERV HEADQUARTERS – HOLDING CELL
Shinji woke to the soft sounds of humming. His eyes slowly focused on Yui's calm features. She was cradling his head in her lap, humming and stroking his hair like he was a newborn child. His movements alerted her.
"Oh... I'm sorry sweetie. Did I wake you?" Shinji looked up at her mother and just stared. His eyes slowly took in every detail of her face and burned them into his memory. "Is there something wrong?" Yui asked worriedly.
"I just... I just can't believe that it's really you. I mean... I don't even remember your face but somehow I knew; I don't know how but at the same time I didn't want it to be true." Shinji said reaching up touching Yui's face.
"Why's that?" She asked.
"If it was true then that means everything else that happened was true. The Angels, Eva, father... everything." Shinji said sadly sitting up.
"I'm so sorry Shinji..." Yui began, voice choking up. "I should have been there for you and Rei. I would have given anything to be able to do things differently."
"Then tell me why. Why did you have to get into that Eva?" Shinji asked with clenched teeth, keeping a tight grip on his emotions.
"We thought it was the only way to keep you safe... When we first learnt about the Angels and when the Eva series were developed we knew that only one species would survive the war. Your fath... Rokobungi and I believed that this was the best way to ensure that you got to live the life that you deserved. Free from war and destruction. Free to do what you wanted." Yui looked away, thinking that her worst fears were coming true [He hates me...!]
"Father..." Shinji growled. He walked over to the opposite side of the room and threw a single punch. The sound of his knuckles impacting with the wall startled Yui. "... Did he force you?"
"Force me?" Yui asked.
"To get into the Eva."
"No he didn't... He actually tried to convince me not to, but I insisted." Yui answered, "I watched your conversation with Kaji. I'll understand if you want to leave. I... know that... I failed you as a mother and I can never make it up to you..." Her voice broke, tears streaming down her face.
Shinji looked on, suddenly filled with remorse and realization. [Oh, my god, she's blaming herself for all this! She thinks I hate her!] Shinji sat down next to her, holding her close. One hand cupped her chin, raising her face to look at him. "Hey, stop crying! It's not your fault...mom. It never was! Besides, self loathing is my specialty, remember?" He joked, eliciting a watery chuckle. "It's just when I think of what HE did to me, to all of us...well, I kind of lose it. Please don't cry! I don't blame you for anything. I...I love you, mom!" Yui looked up at her son, seeing the sincerity and warmth in his eyes. Then, without another word, she wrapped her arms around him, years of pain on both sides being eased in that one embrace.
It was sometime later when they released each other, Yui wiping her eyes with the back of her hand. "I'm sorry... It's just so good to have you back." Giving him a motherly kiss on the forehead.
"It's all right" Shinji paused, collecting his thoughts. "Can I ask..."
"Yes, of course. You must be wondering why, how and when..." Yui started rattling off, happy that Shinji had accepted her.
"Actually, I haven't even thought about that. I was wondering how long I was asleep?"
"Oh." Yui looked at her watch. "A good nine hours I'd say."
"Shit!" Shinji immediately slapped his hand across his mouth. "Sorry, I didn't mean..." he mumbled.
Yui chuckled lightly at her son's actions. "It's all right, love. You're all grown up now." Yui said, reaching over and caressing Shinji's check. "My baby boy's become a man." She said, her voice a mixture of pride and disappointment.
"Uh... Mom... I can call you that, can't I? I mean..." Shinji asked, little embarrassed by his question.
"Of course. I've waited so long to hear you say that." Yui said cupping his face. "You look so cute when you blush. Girls are going to be all over you." Yui commented, watching, amused as a blush spread over his features. "I think that I'm going to have to ask Kaji to assign additional Section Two agents just to keep you safe from them all." She then laughed as Shinji did an excellent imitation of a beetroot.
NERV HEADQUARTERS – CONFERENCE ROOM
"It's a good thing that I hid some of the cameras." Kaji stated as he watched the happy reunion of mother and son.
"I'm surprised that you actually did something right for a change." Ritsuko sniped.
"Hey, come on Ritsu. You should more faith in me." Replied Kaji. "Do you think we should wake her?" Kaji motioned over his shoulder to the sleeping form of Misato. She had insisted on remaining despite the requests of Kaji and Ritsuko to go home, and even after being ordered by Fyutsuki to leave. The others were more easily persuaded; being promised they'd be notified the second Shinji awoke.
"I'm not sure which is worse, knowing how grumpy she'll be when you wake her or how much more so she'll get when she finds Shinji's up and you didn't tell her" Ritsuko answered, knowing any scenario would be at Kaji's expense.
"Thanks for the support" came the dry response. Ritsuko merely winked in reply.
Kaji leaned over and gently shook Misato.
"Hey sleeping beauty... time to get up... Your prince charming is awake."
"Lemme alone..." Misato mumbled half asleep. "Not now Kaji, I got a headache... " Ritsuko could only laugh at her friend's response.
"Come on, Katsuragi, it's Shinji." Kaji said, trying to maintain a straight face, while Ritsuko laughed in the background.
"Huh? What? Kaji?" Misato blinked her eyes a few times and rubbed her face. She then turned her full attention on Kaji. "What the hell's the idea, waking me like that...?" Misato stopped mid sentence when she caught sight of the monitor that Ritsuko had left on. It showed Yui leaving the room as Shinji began changing into the workman's uniform.
"Oh my, Shinji has grown... wouldn't you say Misato?" Ritsuko commented as she watched Shinji undress. "I think he's going to give Kaji a good run for his money..."
"SHIN-CHAN" Misato screamed with joy, blowing past Kaji in one swift movement and bolting towards the door. Kaji, unprepared, was dumped unceremoniously on the ground.
"Damn! That woman has no self-control whatsoever..." Kaji complained as he picked himself off the floor.
NERV HEADQUARTERS – HOLDING CELL
"Is everything ok, sweetie?" Yui asked through the door, concerned about her son.
"I'm fine, mom... I've been dressing myself for a while, y'know?" Shinji open the door and stepped out. Yui took one look and started giggling. "What's so funny?" Shinji asked.
"Your shirt... it's inside out..." Yui said, pointing to the reversed Nerv logo on Shinji's chest. Shinji looked down, mortified when he saw she was right. Yui walked over to lend him a hand.
"MOM! I can do it myself...!" Shinji complained as his mother fussed over him. Then the faint echo of someone running gradually became louder. Shinji, shirt still partway over his head, was unable to see who it was.
"Shinji!" Misato yelled.
"Huh? Misato? " The shirt had just been removed when he was bowled off his feet, Misato cannoning into him.
"Oh dear..." Yui commented.
"Shinji, Shinji, Shinji ..." Misato repeated, straddling him and pulling him close. She pulled back momentarily, giving Shinji a moment to recover and regain his bearings...not to mention his breath.
"Misato...?" Misato didn't respond but brushed back Shinji's long bangs and held his head as she examined his features [That's Misato all right... She hasn't changed] "Misato are you O.K?"
[You've changed some much... You've grown into a man. Before you were cute but now you're handsome. Whenever I would look into your eyes back then I all saw was fear. Now I see confidence, strength... but you still have those eyes that a girl...or woman...can get lost in]
Shinji reached up and brushed a tear from Misato's cheek, bringing her back to reality. "Misato? Hey, you're starting to scare me..."
"Are you still my little Shinji?" Misato asked, voice quivering.
Shinji gently brushed the remaining tears from Misato's cheeks, smiling softly. "Yes, Misa-chan, I'm still me ...I'm still your Shin-chan..." Then just like Yui, Misato released five years of accumulated emotion she'd held within and cried into Shinji's neck. Yui got a bit teary-eyed herself as she watched the scene between the two.
OVER THE PACIFIC OCEAN
Keel pulled open the shade cover on his passenger window. The muted roar of the jet engines always bothered him when he tried to get some sleep. He looked out and could only see clouds and the edge of the learjet's wings. His attention was brought back when the flight attendant placed something on his table.
"Excuse me sir... This priority message was just received. It's from the sleeper."
"Thank you." Keel picked up the printed computer sheet and began to read. When he finished, he immediately picked up the satellite phone on his console and dialed. He held the hand piece to the side of his head and waited.
"It's me. I just got your report. Do you think he'll stay?" Keel asked bluntly. He nodded as his caller answered. "That doesn't matter. Do you think he'll stay?" The caller interrupted. "It still doesn't change anything. Just do your job." Keel end the call abruptly and signaled for the attendant. "Yes sir?"
"Dispose of this in the usual manner." Keel handed him the message. "And tell the pilot to return to Japan."
"Yes sir. Are you returning to the mansion?"
"No. Land at Kansai International. Have a car ready to take me to Tokyo Three."
"Yes sir." The flight attendant bowed formally, and left to process Keel's requests.
NERV HEADQUARTERS – ONE OF IT'S MANY HALLWAYS
After much convincing from Shinji that he was fine, Misato reluctantly released her hold on the former pilot. Shinji had reminded them that he needed to get access to a public phone and they were heading to the nearest exit. He pulled at the shirt where Misato had wiped her tears. The moisture and air-conditioning was starting to bother him.
"Is everything all right, Shinji?" Yui inquired, seeing that something bothered her son.
"Just a little cool, that's all" Yui smiled.
"Is my Shin-chan cold? Misato will warm you up." The major teased as she wrapped her arms around the young man.
"Woah!" Shinji was taken by surprise and lost his balance momentarily. "Come on Misato... I have to get to a phone." Yui laughed at her son's byplay with the Major.
"But you might get a cold! I wouldn't want that to happen." Misato replied, propping her chin on Shinji's left shoulder. "Mmm... You've grown so much. I have get on my tippy toes just to reach you."
"Let's go Misato." Yui said. "Shinji? Who do you have to call so urgently?"
"Oh... Ah..." [How should I explain this...? Would she get upset...? Mom and Misato might think that I'm replacing them. May be I did...] Misato let go and whipped around to hear Shinji's explanation. She had totally forgotten about his request to use a phone when Kaji was with him and his hesitation to answer added to her curiosity.
"Ah... to be totally honest... I'm not really comfortable saying... I'm sorry." [Great excuse Shinji! They're just going to probe you more.]
"Has Shinji found a girlfriend?" Misato teased, leaning closer as she spoke.
"WHAT! No! It's just..."
"Just what Shinji? You found someone more prettier than your Misa-chan" Misato pretended to be upset and turned away quickly [This just too easy... I missed it so much]
"No! That's not true..."
"Oh, you still think I'm pretty." Misato giggled like a schoolgirl. "But this is all so sudden. I mean we have the age difference. Bare in mind it's not that much and you are legally an adult..."
"You haven't changed, have you Misato?" asked Shinji, little embarrassed by his former guardian's behavior.
"I'll never change for you Shinji." She purred. "Unless you want me to..."
"Oh, like into that little purple teddy with the garters and fishnets?" He deadpanned. Misato, however, took it in stride, striking a coquettish pose.
"You're having fun, aren't you?" Shinji smiled, knowing what Misato's teasing usually involved.
Misato winked at the young man and planted a kiss on his check. "You know I am..."
"All right, while I was away, I stayed with someone. She..."
"She?" Misato and Yui enquired.
"Yes... She gave me a room and I helped her around the bar she ran in return." [They don't need to know the finer details unless they ask]
"Is that all?" Misato asked. "I thought it would something big..."
"Yes. Why did you feel like you had to hide it from us?" Asked Yui.
"Well... I didn't want to upset either of you. I thought that you would think that I was be replacing the both of you." Shinji said sheepily, looking away. A pair of hand then cupped his face and brought him up.
"Shinji... that's very sweet of you but I want you to know that you can come tell me anything and you don't have to afraid." Yui said softy.
"That's right, Shinji. We're here for you. Always remember that." Misato added, placing a warm hand on his shoulder.
Shinji breathed a sigh of relief. "Thanks... I just thought that you would hate me or something for leaving and finding someone else..."
Yui kept her hands on Shinji's cheeks. "Shinji, I would never hate you no matter what you did. I'll always love you no matter what. I'll always be your mother."
Shinji just nodded as Yui pulled him into another hug. "Everything is going to be all right now... Shinji's back. Ooh, I have to organize a welcome home party..." Misato began rattling off her plans for the evenings. "I have to ring everyone. They still don't know that you're up yet..."
[...But am I back...?]
GEO FRONT – RESIDENTIAL APARTMENTS
Rei woke to the annoying chime of the front door bell. It was strange for her to sleep in but the recent events had weighed heavily on her mind. She slowly put on her dressing gown and headed towards the door. The heating wasn't turned on and the cold tiled floor forced her to quickly skip across. She entered the release code in the keypad for the door. It beeped and hissed opened, revealing Touji, Hikari, Kensuke, Asuka and Mana all dressed in their respective Nerv uniforms.
"Jeez... Took you long enough, wonder girl." Auska complained.
"What do you want?" Rei asked flatly.
"Ah... Sorry to disturb you Rei but we were on our way to see Shinji and were wondering if you would like to come along." Hikari said, sensing the possible tension between the two pilots.
Rei just nodded and stepped aside "Please come in. I'll have to dress." Asuka, Mana and Hikari filed in. Kensuke and Touji stood in their tracks, staring a section of Rei's chest where the dressing gown had failed to cover her extremely sheer nightie.
"What's taking you two..."? Hikari asked but stopped when she noticed Kensuke and Touji's excessive interest in Rei's chest. Rei quickly covered herself as Hikari reacted accordingly.
Asuka had just finished filling the kettle in the kitchen when two loud slaps could be heard from the hallway. "What was that?" Mana asked.
"Those two will never change..."
TOYKO 3 – CITY STREETS
Shinji watched the people of Tokyo 3 resume their day-to-day business. The majority of the damage from the Angel attack had been cleaned up and city engineers deemed the remaining buildings and structures safe for the public. There was still repair work being done but allowing people to return to their daily routines gave the sense that Nerv was doing it's job, if not destroying the Angels and saving mankind was enough. Yui was waiting patiently for him by the Nerv car with her ever-present security detail across the street. She gave a friendly wave as Shinji dialed Aya's number. He necked the phone receiver and waved back as he waited for the other side to ring.
After a few rings, a groggy voice answered the phone. "What?"
"Hey George. It's Shinji." Shinji recognized the voice straight away.
-Shinji? Where the hell have y...- A brief scuffle interrupted George then a female voice followed. -SHINJI! WHERE THE HELL HAVE YOU BEEN! I HEARD ABOUT THE ATTACK ON THE NEWS. ARE YOU OK?-
Shinji pulled the receiver away as Aya screaming was to loud for him to take. "Ah... Sorry..." Was all Shinji could said.
-Sorry?! Damn, child you scared me half to death.- Aya replied –Are you hurt? Is everything ok?-
"Yeah, I'm fine but things are... a little complicated."
-What do you mean complicated? Are you in trouble?-
"No, It's just that I've managed to catch up with some of my... old friends."
-Old friends? You don't sound too sure about yourself? What's going on Shinji?-
"There are a couple of things that I have to sort out before I can come back. It's nothing I can't handle. I'll just be spending a couple of more days here. That's all."
-...All right... but just call if you need anything. Do you have enough money? What about some spare clothes?-
"I'll be fine." Shinji looked at the Nerv emblem on the side of the Yui's car. "It's not that long in any case. I'll give you a call before I leave, ok."
-Fine... but just don't do that again! The old heart isn't what it use to...-
"Jeeze! Sounds like you were actually worried about me?" Shinji joked, trying to lighten Aya's mood.
-Smart-arse! Just be careful, Shinji...-
"Thanks Aya, I will." Shinji hung up the phone and withdrew the phone card from its slot [How the hell am I going to tell everyone? Misato is planning this huge party for me... and mom... What am I doing to do?] Shinji ran his hand through his hair. He noticed that it was course and gritty.
"Damn LCL... I hate that stuff." He cursed as he crossed the street, towards Yui.
NERV HEADQUARTERS – EMPLOYEE CAFETERIA
Asuka was first to enter the cafeteria and scanned the entire room for anyone that could tell her of Shinji's whereabouts. She had already visited the holding cell where Shinji had been housed and found it empty. Her next stop was Section Two and Kaji but his personal assistant told her that he asked not to be disturbed unless it was an emergency. Ritsuko, Fuyutuski and the bridge crew who had pulled a double shift had gone home to get some much need rest.
"This is unbelievable! How can everyone go home?" Asuka curse. "Who is running this organization? What if an Angel decided to attack or there was some sort of emergency?"
"They worked all night Asuka." Hikari answered, walking up beside her. "What use would they be totally exhausted? Kaji is still on shift."
"That's not the point! And where's Misato? I know she didn't come home last night." Asuka retorted.
"Damn machine! All I want is my morning coffee!" Asuka's question was answered when the Major banged the side of the vending machine. "Piece of junk!" Asuka zeroed in on the disturbance and quickly headed over.
The machine eventually released a disposable cup and started dispensing dark steaming liquid. "About time." Misato rubbed the underside of her fist where she beat the side of the machine. The coffee machine clicked as it finished filling the cup. Just before Misato could reach for her long awaited coffee, another hand grabbed her wrist and spun her around. "What the?!"
"Where is he?!" Asuka demanded.
"And a good morning to you too, Asuka!" Misato answered coolly as she grabbed her coffee.
"Good morning Major" Hikari greeted.
"Oh, good morning Hikari." Misato said pleasantly between sips. "At least someone around here knows how to greet a person properly." Misato finished turning towards Asuka.
"Whatever. Are you going to answer my question?" Asuka replied.
"Sorry, I must have missed it. What was it again?" Misato decided to string Asuka along for a little while to get her back. The three made their way over to an available table in the eating area.
"Where is he?" Asuka asked again trying to keep her voice down.
"I'm sorry... who is it you are looking for?" Asuka slammed her fist onto the table, gaining the attention of other NERV employees.
"You know who. Stop playing games!"
"I didn't get much sleep last night, Asuka. So I'm not as switched on as I usually am. I had quite an exciting morning visiting Shinji..." Misato teased, knowing full well what Asuka was asking.
Hikari ignored the argument between Asuka and Misato knowing that they liked to irritate each other. "I wonder where the guys went to?"
"Hey Kensuke, spot me a couple of Yen?" Touji asked as he stood at the cafeteria check out.
"What?! We just had breakfast. Are you hungry again?" Kensuke complained.
"How many times have I saved your life while in the EVA? You'd think someone would be a bit more grateful..."
"You haven't even defeated an Angel yet!" Kensuke argued.
Hikari let her head hit the table as Kensuke and Touji continued to argue and Misato had gotten Asuka to the point where she was kneeling on the table and tugging on her jacket.
NERV HEADQUARTERS – PILOT'S CHANGE ROOM
Shinji had mentioned that he needed a shower and told Yui that he would meet her in the cafeteria when done. He noticed that they had removed the makeshift curtain and renovated a new section for the female pilots. He scanned the lockers and was surprised that Touji's name was written on one of then. Even more surprising was that they hadn't removed his locker. Shinji inspected it, noting that it hadn't been disturbed for some time. [Why would they still have my locker here? Did they really think I would come back?] Shinji went to open it but stopped short and shook his head [They probably just forgot or got lazy...] he then stepped into the showers, trying to not think too much about it.
"...But we didn't forget about you..." Rei whispered as she waited patiently outside the change rooms.
NERV HEADQUARTERS – EMPLOYEE CAFETERIA
For a woman who had been awake for the past eighteen and half hours, Yui Ikari was feeling refreshed and completely energized. She grabbed a food tray and proceeded down the aisle collecting dishes that she fancied would be tasty [I wonder what Shinji would want for breakfast? I'd better get a bit of everything...]. By the time she reached the cashier her tray held more than enough food.
"Feeling hungry this morning commander?" The cashier asked, as she tallied the total amount.
"Oh no. Some of it is for my son..." [My son... that's the first time I have spoken those words.]
"You mean the pilot of Unit One?"
"Yes. He returned yesterday."
"Well it's a good thing he did or that Angel would have been more than we could handle." As Yui's conversation continued, Misato and Asuka waged their verbal battle on the other side of the room.
"You think this is funny?!" Asuka spat at the smirking Misato.
"I actually think it's quite sweet that you care so much for Shinji's well being?"
"What?! It's not..." Touji was trying to defend his breakfast from Mana who had managed to snatch a piece of toast. Hikari was hounding Touji for eating his second breakfast and not sharing. Kensuke was counting the remaining Yen in his wallet after paying for Touji.
"It's not what? Come on Asuka, we're both adults now. There's nothing to be ashamed of. I have to admit Shinji's has grown to be quite the hotty."
[I'll say, and that's understating it!] Mana flushed slightly at her memories of Shinji on the monitor.
"Well... Some of us aren't tramps like yourself." Asuka said unconvincingly, trying to get the image of the Shinji from her dreamscape out of her mind.
"That's Major to you, Asuka."
"Like I said, a Major tramp..."
"You know if I was only twelve years younger Shinji would be in a lot of trouble." Misato then decided to put the final nail in the coffin. "Actually, Shinji is an adult now... So there wouldn't be any problem if we started something." She finished smirking.
Touji and Mana began coughing and choking on their food as Kensuke and Hikari just stared at the Major.
"And what makes you think that Shinji would go out with a someone like yourself?" Asuka growled, refusing to admit to the possibility that Shinji would prefer Misato over her.
"You have a point there... I guess I'll just have to ask him and find out."
NERV HEADQUARTERS – PILOT CHANGE ROOMS
Shinji walked out, feeling refreshed and clean. He didn't have a comb and his semi dry hair fell about. [May be I need a haircut. It's getting annoying] Shinji brushed the stray locks away from his face.
"Shinji..." A quiet voice spoke. Shinji tried to turn around to see who it was but a pair of arms wrapped around him from behind stopping him. "I... missed you..."
Shinji recognized Rei's voice and placed his hands over her arms. "I missed you too, Rei." Shinji heard Rei's muffled cries and felt his back getting damp from her tears. [She's crying? I've never seen Rei cry before... how did she know I was here?]
"Why?" Rei whispered, that single word having more impact than any tirade of questions or abuse.
Shinji thought for a moment before answering. "I think we should find the others. I'm sure that they'd like to know as well." He turned around to face her [Wow... Rei's changed... She actually looks... I hate to say it but more human] Rei looked up at his calm ocean blue eyes and just nodded. Shinji was surprised when she grabbed his hand, leading him towards the cafeteria. He didn't see her tears replaced with a slight blush and small smile as they walked.
They were half way there when someone got their attention. "Only here for a day and already found yourself a girlfriend... good man, Shinji." They turned around to see a grinning Kaji carrying a stack of reports.
"Agent Kaji." Rei greeted formally, not releasing Shinji's hand.
"Kaji?! I... I'm..." Shinji tried to formulate an answer.
"That's o.k, Shinji. I'm just kidding."
"No, it's not that... When I first woke up...I said and did some things that were uncalled for and..."
"Don't worry about it." Kaji made a dismissive motion with his hand. "Look, if you want to make up for it, how about buying us some breakfast and we'll call it even. Deal?"
"Deal" said Shinji, extending his hand, which Kaji shook, renewing the old bond they shared.
"We are actually on our way to the cafeteria. Would you like to join us?" Rei asked.
"Perfect. Just let me drop these off at the Commander's office before he's back on shift." Kaji led them on a detour to Fuyutsuki's office.
NERV HEADQUARTERS – EMPLOYEE CAFETERIA
"You wouldn't...!"
"Why not? It's been a while since I've been out on a proper date. I'm sure Shinji will be the perfect gentleman. There's that new French restaurant downtown..."
"Well then, I guess I 'll just have to ask Kaji." Asuka fired back, knowing that Kaji was the only real weakness for Misato.
"Kaji? What?" Misato's cocky attitude died instantly. "As if Kaji would go out with you?"
"Why? You're not seeing him at the moment, so he's fair game."
"Well... the same goes for Shinji! It's not as if you have your name on him."
"Who says I'm after Shinji anyway? I just want to know why he left me!"
"Don't you mean 'us' Asuka?" Hikari asked, amused by the show Misato and Asuka were giving.
"Yeah that's what I said!"
"Don't think so red. I'm pretty sure that you said 'me'. What do you think Ken?" Touji asked after taking a sip of his orange juice.
"Yep. No doubt about it."
"What hell the would you two know! The four-eyes here hasn't even had a girlfriend before!"
"Temper, temper... It's no wonder Shinji le... HEY!" Asuka turned her attack from Misato to Kensuke. She held him by the collar of his lab coat and reeled her fist back. "TOUJI! HELP!"
"Excuse me Misato, is this seat taken." Yui asked, interrupting Asuka's attack. Everyone stopped to look at the Vice Commander. "Oh I guess this must reserved for Shinji... right Misato?"
"What? How long have you been there?" Misato was turning redder by the minute, dreading how much Yui might have overheard.
"Long enough to know that my boy has quite a following..." Yui winked at Asuka who instantly released Kensuke and went very quiet. "But I have to say..." Yui finally did take the vacant seat next to Misato and took a sip of her coffee "...Rei is with Shinji right now."
"WHAT?!" Asuka exclaimed.
"Oh yes... Shinji wanted a take a shower so I told him that I would meet him here. I bumped into Rei who wanted to wait for him." Yui explained. "Is there something wrong Asuka?"
"What? No!" [Damn wonder girl!]
"Yui... I was wondering...how much did you... what I mean is... I was only joking with Asu..."
"What?! Are you saying that your feelings for Shinji's aren't true? How dare you play with his heart like that?" Yui rasped, convincingly acting the outraged mother. Inwardly, she was struggling, trying to contain an explosion of laughter. [This is actually fun. I can see why she revs Asuka up so much.]
"NO! I LOVE..." Misato slapped her hand across her face mouth knowing whatever she say would have repercussions.
"YOU WHAT?!" The others yelled, while Yui, poker-faced, continued with her breakfast.
"Shin-man you dog! You have Misato on... AAAHHH!" Touji copped a swift kick from Hikari before he could finish his lewd comment.
"Major! That's so indecent!" Hikari exclaimed.
"What's so indecent?" Kaji asked. "I hope Misato wasn't telling you about those two weeks while we were at University."
"Kaji?!" Misato asked, sinking deeper into her seat. "Who else is here?" she pleaded to the Gods.
"Hi guys..." Shinji said hesitantly. His hands were in his pockets and Rei had her arm looped around his. "Long time no see..."
AUTHOR'S NOTES Chapter 10 done! Thanks to NateGold for proofreading. I got a review that my content still contained spelling and grammar mistakes and that I should find a new proofreader. I'd just like to say this fanfic isn't supposed to be taken seriously. If we miss a few or all of the errors then so what. It's not as if I'm trying to make a living from doing this or pretend that I'm a best selling author. All I can say is take the work as it comes. Plus I think the majority you out there know what I'm trying to get across in any case.
Apologies to the guys who were expecting some action and just got WAFF but it came very easily. I hope I raised some interest in Keel's Learjet conversation. Let me know if you want it swung bad or good. I'm still undecided. Just who is the mysterious sleeper?
The next chapter will be similar but more of a focus on what happen during Shinji's 'missing years'. Some of the things that you may have pickup up in the earlier chapters will be explained further in chapter 11 and 12.
Wonga316
