Neon Genesis Evangelion: Legacy – Full Metal FUBAR!
A Full Metal Panic! Crossover
Chapter 1 – Laevatein vs. Evangelion
25 May, 2001 – Pacific Ocean, 200km South of Tokyo
The Tuatha De Danaan had been underway for several days operating off the coast of Japan. After picking up Sousuke and rescuing Kaname following the attack on their college campus by Amalgam's forces, which left Kyoko, Kaname's best friend, critically injured for the second time in her life, the ship was taking time to resupply before setting off to follow up on a lead on an Amalgam base. Two of the Tuatha De Danaan's V–22 Ospreys were inbound with more supplies hidden by their ECS. Commander Mardukas was on the bridge monitoring the landings on the flight deck.
"Flight, make sure the cargo is secured as soon as possible." Mardukas ordered. "The Captain wants to get underway before we're discovered."
"Sir there is one other supply craft we're waiting on to return." The Flight Officer replied. "Then the UNREP will be completed."
"Do we have any other aircraft not aboard?" Mardukas asked.
"No, Commander, we're just waiting on the one Osprey." The Flight Officer replied.
"ETA?" Mardukas asked.
"They just took off with the rest of the supplies and our special guests, 20 minutes at the most." The Flight Officer replied.
"Good, good, the Captain will pleased to hear the special guests will be arriving." Mardukas said. "Radar, do we have any contacts on the screens?"
"Negative, sir." The Radar Officer replied. "We're just tracking the lone Osprey."
"Sonar?" Mardukas asked.
"Negative sonar contacts, sir." The Sonar Officer replied.
"Alright, keep a sharp eye out." Mardukas said to them both. "We don't want to be caught off guard."
"Commander, there's a problem." Wraith said as she walked onto the bridge.
"Just once I would like a "hello sir" and maybe a salute before you tell me bad news." Mardukas said.
"Hello, sir." Wraith said giving a quick and efficient salute. "We have a problem."
Mardukas sighed. "Report please."
"Amalgam believes they know our location, I picked up some increased chatter on their channels." Wraith said. "I'm surprised they haven't updated their encryptions, but they are only a few dozen kilometers off our current position."
"What are they sending after us?" Mardukas asked.
"At least 30 aircraft and a half dozen AS." Wraith replied. "No specific breakdown I'm afraid, but intercept will be in 45 minutes, plus or minus five minutes."
"I will inform the Captain." Mardukas said. "Flight tell that Osprey to double time it."
"Aye, Commander." The Flight Officer replied.
"Radar, prep our ECS cancellers as soon as the Osprey is in range deploy them and look for the incoming enemy."
"Aye sir." The Radar officer replied.
–––
Tessa was relaxing in her quarters, going over all the information that Lord Mallory had provided her and Mithril about Amalgam's reformation. Just as Mithril had been weakened three years previously, so had amalgam, but neither organization was destroyed beyond salvage. As Tessa read through the reports she was shocked.
"This is a lot more surprising than I realized." Tessa said. "Even without Leonard, Amalgam is still very strong and very dangerous." Tessa sighed. "And they have somehow brought the Whispered back… Kaname didn't explain that very well."
Tessa closed the files and looked over Clouseau's, Mao's and Sousuke's after action reports regarding Kaname's rescue. "They met a lot of resistance, and it seems the new AS of ours are working well enough… The new Arbalest and the rebuilt Leviathan functioned really well. Urzu did a wonderful job out there." Tessa sighed again. "I was really hoping to stay retired though, doing nothing during the day wasn't so bad. Shopping in London was nice and carefree."
Tessa heard a curt knock on her door and recognized it. "Come in, Commander." Tessa said as Mardukas entered.
"Captain." Mardukas said with a salute.
"At ease, Mardukas." Tessa said. "Is there something wrong? You look worried."
"Yes, ma'am." Mardukas said. "Wraith informs me that Amalgam have deduced our location and re on the way."
"It was only a matter of time." Tessa sighed. "How long until they arrive?"
"Less than 40 minutes, Captain."
"Call for Action Stations as soon as they're on radar or sonar." Tessa ordered. "And have the leviathan prepped for launch when that happens, with the EXL–45 attached and as many weapons as it can carry."
"You're sending up Urzu–4 alone?" Mardukas asked.
"After what happened in Thailand that is the best option." Tessa replied. "Sousuke has a much better grasp of the Lambda Driver than he did before."
"Yes, he certainly does." Mardukas said. "Will you be coming to the bridge now, Captain?"
"No, I believe you have everything well in hand, Commander." Tessa replied. "I will collect Kaname and meet you on the bridge when the alarm is given."
"Does she need to be on the bridge, ma'am?" Mardukas asked.
"No, but her being able to Sousuke in action might keep her calm." Tessa said. "She's been through a lot in the past few days."
"Of course, Captain." Mardukas replied. "If that's everything, I'll return the bridge. The last Osprey with your special guests should be arriving shortly."
"I think we have it covered, Commander, you're dismissed." Tessa smiled. "It's good we haven't lost our knack for this… and it feels just like old times."
"Old times indeed, Captain." Mardukas said as he left.
–––
Kaname was sitting quietly in Sousuke's quarters. Sousuke was in the shower after a long morning of combat drills. As he came out in nothing but his boxers Kaname looked up.
"How are you feeling, Sousuke?" Kaname asked.
"Tired." Sousuke replied curtly. "I'm not used to this anymore."
"I'm sorry." Kaname said sullenly.
"I told you to stop apologizing." Sousuke said. "You could never have known that Amalgam would kidnap you and extract Sophia's consciousness from yours."
"Yes but, it happened all over again." Kaname said. "You had to arm yourself. You had given it all up for me."
"No, I gave it up because I didn't need to carry a weapon anymore." Sousuke said. "You were safe, we were safe, for three years." Sousuke walked over to the bed and sat down next to her. "I'm doing this now to protect you like I once did, and I will lay down my arms again when this threat is eliminated."
"It's just so weird to feel the Whispers again after all this time." Kaname bemoaned. "I miss the quiet."
"I'm sure once Sophia's soul is put to rest that the Whispered will be quiet for good." Sousuke said. "Though I don't understand it fully, that is my… hope."
"You've hanged a lot in the last three years." Kaname said as Sousuke gave her a look. "Not in a bad way Sousuke, just, you're happier. And you don't shoot at random stuff and noises anymore."
"I was only being vigilant back then." Sousuke said. "I stand by everything I blew up."
"That's the Sousuke I remember." Kaname sighed. "The man who booby trapped bread we had to sell because he pulled a gun at the bread stand."
"That was a rather fun misunderstanding." Sousuke chuckled. "High school was certainly fun."
"Except for the part where we missed our last year and had to take it over again." Kaname said. "That and Kyoko getting injured to lure you out…" Kaname sighed. "Why is it always Kyoko…?"
"Summer school wasn't so bad, we were able to be considered part of our graduating class." Sousuke said before he realized Kaname trailed off. "Kaname, Kyoko will be fine." Sousuke said reassuringly.
"But Kyoko was injured, again." Kaname insisted. "I mean, we're lucky no one died when they kidnapped me."
"Yes, we are." Sousuke replied. "And I'm glad that you weren't injured either."
"I just wish Kyoko wasn't injured." Kaname sighed.
"Kyoko will be fine, she is being transferred aboard, as is Kazama." Sousuke replied. "The Captain told me this morning. The doctors here will see to her recovery and you can visit her anytime you want."
"Wait, they're both being brought aboard?" Kaname asked.
"Yes." Sousuke replied. "They should be here soon if they aren't already."
"Wait, why both of them?" Kaname asked.
"I owed Kazama a favor." Sousuke said. "He wanted to see a real warship and some AS up close without having to run for his life for once."
"Yeah that would be nice." Kaname sighed as she rested her head on Sousuke's shoulder.
"We'll get back to that peaceful place, I promise." Sousuke replied as an alarm klaxon went off, breaking up their quiet moment and caused Kaname to jump up.
"Oh no…" Kaname muttered, remembering her last time aboard when the ship was taken over by Gauron.
"Amalgam…" Sousuke muttered as a message came over the public address system.
"Action Stations, Action Stations. All hands man your battle stations. The route of travel is forward and up to starboard, down and aft to port. Set Threat Level 1 throughout the ship. Amalgam forces detected 250 kilometers southwest of our position and closing fast."
"I should get dressed, I'm needed." Sousuke said.
"Ok…" Kaname said. "Please, be careful."
As Sousuke rushed to get into his uniform there was a knock on the door. Kaname answered and saw Tessa, now in her uniform, standing there.
"Hello, Kaname." Tessa said. "Would you please accompany me to the bridge?"
"What for?" Kaname asked.
"Just because I'd like you to be there." Tessa replied as she noticed Sousuke tying his boots. "Sous… Sergeant Major," Tessa caught herself.
Sousuke jumped into a full salute with one boot still united. "Captain!" Sousuke said in usual gruff tone.
"At ease." Tessa said. "Seeing as I caught you here, the Leviathan is waiting for you on the Hangar Deck."
"Ma'am?" Sousuke asked.
"You're doing an aerial intercept." Tessa explained. "You'll be launching on your own with the EXL–45 so you can intercept them."
"Why not just dive the ship, Tessa?" Kaname asked.
"They'd just track us again." Tessa replied. "And Sousuke's use of the Lambda Driver in the last fight with Amalgam proved that he has better control, so it's safer to just send him up. Urzu–1, Urzu–3, Urzu–6, and Urzu–7 will be on standby though."
"Yes, ma'am!" Sousuke replied. "I'll be on my way."
"And we should be on ours, Kaname." Tessa said kindly.
"Right…" Kaname replied worriedly. "Sousuke, like I said, be careful."
"I will, Chidori." Sousuke smiled. "As long as you're cheering for me, it won't be a problem."
–––
Mao and Kurz were relaxing in the Officer's Lounge. Kurz was lying on Mao's lap, using her as a crude pillow. Mao was reading a graphic novel, occasionally glancing down at Kurz to see if he was still conscious. The room was empty besides the two of them, as most everyone else was either resting or helping with the UNREP.
"You still awake?" Mao asked as she turned the page.
"Sort of." Kurz replied with a stifled yawn. "Wish we could just go to bed though."
"Yeah well, no such luck, Lieutenant." Mao joked. "Maybe once the ship dives and we head off to who knows where we can go to sleep."
"I didn't say sleep, I said bed." Kurz said with a wink.
"Weber, you should really think more about sleep after your last mission in your Arbalest." Someone said from the doorway. Kurz and Mao looked to see Major Belfangan Clouseau standing in the hatchway.
"Major, I did just fine on our last op, thank you very much." Kurz said defensively.
"Lieutenant, you missed three easy shots Stevie Wonder could have taken." Clouseau quipped. "I'd focus more on training than extracurricular activities."
"Ben, we were all a little rusty." Mao said. "It's been three years since we did, well, anything like that."
"It's no excuse, Melissa." Clouseau said. "Amalgam is a major threat again, and we're out of shape. It's concerning."
"We'll be fine." Mao replied. "The three of us have to get used to the Arbalest's that were made for us, and get used to the Lambda Driver, and Sousuke just needs to get back into the groove of things as well."
"I'm glad you're so optimistic." Clouseau said. "But as soon as we're underway we have some training to do."
"Ugh, I hate training." Kurz moaned.
"Lieutenant, you're third in command of this unit, and we need all twelve of us to be in top fighting for to deal with whatever is coming." Clouseau said glumly. "So we'll be putting in the effort to make sure we're the best."
"Well seeing as we're not training now, Ben, take a seat and relax a bit." Mao said.
"Yeah, you need to relax a bit." Kurz said. "Have a soda or something, take a nap."
"I think you're doing enough relaxing for the three of us." Clouseau said.
"What, don't you have some anime to watch?" Kurz asked.
Clouseau's eyes narrowed. "You've been told not to discuss that."
"Come on, no one will think less of you." Kurz said. "It'll make you seem more human."
"I don't need to be seen as human." Clouseau replied. "All I want is to command their respect, and being an… an otaku doesn't do that."
"Ah come on, Ben." Mao said. "No one cares about that stuff anymore."
"Well I do." Clouseau said. "My private life isn't for other's consumption." Clouseau looked at Kurz and Mao. "You two however need to keep the lovey dovey stuff to a minimum on duty."
"Were sharing quarters, everyone must know that." Kurz said.
"It doesn't matter." Clouseau said. "You need to set a good example for the crew."
"Don't worry, Ben." Mao said. "We can control ourselves, we're not teenagers." Mao chuckled. "Now relax, Major."
"That almost sounded like an order, Captain." Clouseau said.
"Not an order, sir, just an empathic suggestion from your second in command." Mao joked.
"Alright fine." Ben said as he chose the couch opposite the happy couple and laid down with his arms acting as a pillow behind his head. "If you'll stop nagging me about it."
"That's the spirit, Major." Kurz said. "Was that so bad?"
"I'll admit, you're not wrong. Relaxing does feel pretty good." Clouseau said just as the alarm klaxon went off.
"Damn it…" Mao muttered as a message came over the public address system.
"Action Stations, Action Stations. All hands man your battle stations. The route of travel is forward and up to starboard, down and aft to port. Set Threat Level 1 throughout the ship. Amalgam forces detected 250 kilometers southwest of our position and closing fast."
"Ah hell, and here I was just starting to relax." Clouseau groaned.
"Well, at least it sounds like we're going to have fun." Kurz said.
"Yeah, fun." Mao muttered. "Come on, let's double time it down to the flight deck."
–––
The briefing area outside the flight deck was crowded with pilots. The AS pilots in their uniforms and the F–35 and AH–66 pilots were in their flight suits. The alarm klaxons had been turned off, but the steady slow flashing red lights alerting them to the incoming danger. Clouseau, Wraith, and Mardukas were standing in front of a large briefing screen showing a satellite picture of the area surrounding the Tuatha De Danaan with a live feed of the radar overlaid. A large amount of red blips were highlighted approaching fast.
"Attention on deck!" Clouseau ordered. "Quiet down everyone." A hush fell over the room almost immediately. "Commander, the floor is yours."
"Thank you Major." Mardukas replied. "Alright everyone, we have a situation as you're well aware. There's an incoming force of Amalgam AS and aircraft. Wraith, can you elaborate further?" Mardukas asked.
"Thank you Commander." Wraith said. "Based on chatter I picked up a short time ago, the attack force is coming from our last operation zone in Thailand, all the forces we were able to destroy due to the nature of our mission." Wraith explained. "Their goal is likely the destruction of the Tuatha De Danaan or the boarding and capture of Miss Chidori. But until they attack and we can better identify what types of craft we're dealing with, their final plan alludes us at the moment." Sousuke's face stiffened at the mentioning of Kaname. "At their current speed, the enemy should be within weapons range in twenty minutes, though it is likely to be delayed a bit if they need to refuel again, as Thailand is quite a distance from our current position, but that is not a guarantee. Commander, you have a better grasp of the Captain's plan than I do."
"Of course." Mardukas replied. "With the enemy's end goal still a mystery the Captain has ordered a minimum of aircraft and AS to be sent against the enemy. Urzu–4 will be sent up in the Leviathan alone, armed with a full loadout of missiles and guns mounted to the EXL–45 flight wing."
"Sir?" Clouseau asked. "What about the Lightning's and Comanche's?"
"The Captain has decided not to risk them in this operation." Mardukas replied.
"But she's sending the Sergeant Major up alone." Mao said.
"Urzu–1, Urzu–3 will be on standby in flight configuration to backup Urzu–4 in the air. Urzu–6 and Urzu–7 will be on standby to deploy on the hull and act as defensive weapon positions, but in all likelihood they will not be launched." Mardukas explained. "All F–35 and AH–66 pilots should arm themselves against possible boarding action."
"Sir, the Lambda Driver will make short work of them once all ordinance has been expended." Sousuke said, speaking up and having everyone turn toward him.
"Then you all understand." Mardukas said. "Urzu–4 is to launch in 15 minutes."
"Yes, Commander we do." Clouseau replied. "Company, you have your orders. Dismissed."
Commander Mardukas left in a hurry for the bridge while Clouseau went to meet up with the rest of Urzu Squadron, who were mulling about. The pilots, having nothing else to and looking a bit disappointed by not being utilized and left quickly.
"Sergeant Major, did you know about this plan?" Clouseau asked.
"Yes, Major." Sousuke replied. "The Captain stopped by my quarters to bring Kaname to the bridge. She gave me a short briefing on what I was to do."
"Has Tessa lost her mind?!" Mao shouted.
"Stow it, Captain." Clouseau said. "Captain Testarossa has made a decision and we will abide by it."
"Major…" Mao began.
"Sousuke, did Tessa explain her reasoning to you?" Kurz asked.
"The Captain believes I will be able to reproduce what happened in Thailand." Sousuke explained. "It won't be a problem."
"You mean that massive shockwave?" Mao asked.
"Yes." Sousuke confirmed. "I think it is possible."
"Major, this is insane, one AS against how many aircraft?" Mao said. "Ben, we need to protest! At least send up the F–35s!"
"Melissa, as much as I hate to say it, the Captain is right." Clouseau said solemnly. "Sousuke's little trick with the Lambda Driver got us all out of danger back there. Seeing as we're in danger again I'm sure he can handle it."
"Thank you Major, I promise not to let you down." Sousuke replied.
"I'm sure you won't Sousuke." Clouseau said. "Now go get yourself ready to, you only have a few minutes to launch." Clouseau sighed. "Mao, go to the bridge and monitor us from there… Kurz, Flash, Hardball get yourselves to your AS and get in standby mode."
"Yes, sir Major." Kurz replied. "Good hunting up there Sousuke old buddy. Hopefully you don't need us."
"I hope so as well." Sousuke replied. "It won't be a problem."
–––
Kaname was standing awkwardly on the bridge behind Tessa's chair. She wasn't sure what to do in this situation other than observe, but her knack for asking questions just couldn't be tamed.
"Tessa, why did you bring me here?" Kaname asked.
"I told you because I wanted you here." Tessa replied.
"No, that's not the reason." Kaname argued. "Come on Tessa, what's the real reason?"
"Kaname, I wanted to make sure you weren't too worried about Sousuke." Tessa said in hushed tones. "And this is the best place to see what's going on." Tessa reached into her pocket and took out an earpiece. "Here, put this in and you'll be able to hear our comms, and Sousuke while he's out there."
"Thanks, Tessa." Kaname said. As she put her earpiece in Mardukas arrived, presumably from the briefing Tessa had mentioned on their walk over.
"Captain, Miss Chidori." Mardukas said.
"How was the briefing, Commander?" Tessa asked.
"It went well enough." Mardukas replied. "Your plan was received with some… skepticism."
"I was expecting that." Tessa said. "Was Urzu–4… confident?"
"Extremely." Mardukas replied.
"Well of course he is, it's Sousuke after all." Kaname quipped.
"Quite right, Miss Chidori." Mardukas said. "He's prepping for launch now."
"Good." Tessa replied. "Radar, time until enemy is within range?"
"Eight minutes, Captain." The Radar Officer replied.
"Helm, take us on course zero–four–five and set speed to 25 knots." Tessa ordered.
"Aye, aye Captain." The Helm Officer replied.
"Activate the ECM systems." Tessa ordered.
"ECM is active, Captain." The Weapons Officer replied.
Mao walked onto the bridge and came up to Tessa and Mardukas. "Permission to man the Lambda Station, ma'am."
"Shouldn't you be arming yourself for possible boarding action?" Mardukas asked.
"Major Clouseau ordered me up here." Mao replied.
"It's alright, Commander." Tessa said. "Captain Mao, take your station."
"Thank you, Captain." Mao said as she took the Lambda station.
–––
Sousuke looked over the Leviathan again from the outside. It was in its landed crouched position with its joints locked Sousuke had used the EXL–45 Pegasus flight attachment on their last mission but it hadn't been loaded with weapons at the time. It had 30 AIM–120 AMRAAM missiles loaded on plus two 30mm GAU–8 and four 20mm M61 Vulcan Gatling guns that could be grabbed by the Leviathan's main arms. Sousuke clamored into the cockpit and brought the palladium reactor online.
"Hello Sergeant Major." Al, the Leviathan's A.I. said. "It's nice to see you again so soon."
"Hi Al." Sousuke said. "Can you do a systems check?"
"Of course." Al replied. "All systems show nominal. EXL–45 reactor is also online and engine is on standby."
"Good." Sousuke said. "Activate Mode 4, releasing joint locks, setting BMSA to three point five…" Sousuke rattled off. "Palladium reactor is stable, output at 40%."
"Lambda Driver is on standby mode." Al said. "I believe we are ready."
"We are." Sousuke replied. "Flight, I'm moving to the elevator."
"Understood." The Flight Officer said. "Use launcher one, Urzu–4."
"Roger." Sousuke said as the Leviathan stood up from its crouched position, coming to its full height. Sousuke was careful of the wings on the EXL–45 didn't get ripped off. Sousuke moved to the elevator and turned around so he was facing the bow. The elevator moved slowly up and the hatch on the flight deck opened. Sousuke saw the natural light hit the cameras as the elevator came level with the deck. The Leviathan moved forward towards the launchers. Sousuke took position at launcher one and got into launch position.
"Tow bars are locked, jet blast defector raised." The Flight Officer said.
"Both engines at idle, ready to launch on your command." Sousuke replied. "Al, max thrust when they launch us."
"I am ready, Sergeant Major." Al replied.
"Good hunting, Urzu–4." Tessa said.
"Leviathan… Launching." The Flight Officer said.
Sousuke felt the catapult let loose and felt the two engines on the EXL–45 open up to full afterburner. Sousuke felt the g–forces push him back in his restraints as the Leviathan's feet left the deck. Sousuke took control and lowered the thrust to a more manageable level.
"Climb to flight level one–five–zero and come about." The Flight Officer said.
"Roger." Sousuke replied as he pulled up and climbed quickly to 15,000 feet. "Coming about to course two–two–five." The Leviathan spun around, it's heavy load out of armaments making the Arm Slave and flight wing combination maneuver rather slowly. "How far away are the targets?" Sousuke asked as the Leviathan slowed and the EXL–45 engaged its VTOL mode taking position directly above the Tuatha De Danaan, matching it's speed.
"Enemy is thirty kilometers out." The Radar Officer replied. "There are… 120 confirmed radar contacts…"
"What?" Sousuke could tell that was Kaname's voice, muffled because she didn't have a mic, her voice carried enough to be picked up.
"That's a lot more than were expected." Mardukas muttered. "Is that confirmed with the ECS cancellers deployed?"
"Yes, Commander." The Radar Officer replied. "ECS cancellers are working normally, 120 contacts inbound."
"It won't be a problem." Sousuke said somewhat confidently.
"It most certainly is a problem!" Sousuke heard Kaname again.
"Kaname, I will be alright." Sousuke said. "I will not let them hurt you again."
"Urzu–4, weapons free." Tessa ordered. "Target the enemies at your discretion."
"Initiate counter–jamming." Mardukas ordered.
"Al, bring the targeting systems online." Sousuke said.
"Tracking the nearest targets, Sergeant Major." Al replied. "The AMRAAMs are all armed and ready to launch."
"Targeting confirmed." Sousuke said. "Urzu–4, Fox three."
The thirty missiles detached form their hard points in sequence and roared off towards their targets, a large group of aircraft and Arm Slaves moving in quickly. Amalgam's forces moved to break away from the incoming missiles but to no avail as all thirty of them hit their targets, either directly or in close proximity, filling the sky with bright flashes of fire and smoke.
"Al, get me the GAU–8s." Sousuke said. "We're going to need them."
–––
On the bridge, Tessa, Kaname, and Mardukas were watching the main screen which had some external views and a radar overlay up. They watched as some of the red blips flashed out of existence after Sousuke's first strike.
"Confirming thirty–eight targets down." The Radar Officer said. "Looks like he took out a few extra with all the shrapnel he created."
"Yeah and there's still how many things out there?" Kaname said angrily.
"Eighty–two." The Radar Officer replied. "And they're firing on us! Counting 100 plus missiles in the air, all heading for us."
"Prepare for a crash dive!" Mardukas ordered.
"No they're not!" Sousuke shouted over the comms.
"Lambda Driver active!" Mao said from her station. "It's Urzu–4!"
"Belay the dive order!" Tessa ordered as the ship rocked slightly from several shockwaves as the missiles were forcibly detonated in the air.
"Lambda Driver is still online, but is at low power output." Mao reported.
"All missiles are down." The Radar Officer said.
"Damage?" Mardukas asked.
"None damage reported." The Damage Control officer reported. "Hull is intact."
"There's too many of them!" Sousuke said. "They're all over the place."
"He's right, ma'am, we're being swarmed." The Radar Officer said.
"Firing GAU–8s." Sousuke informed them as they heard the sound of the BRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRT over the comms.
"Well if some 30mm rounds can't slow them down, nothing will." Mao joked.
"There aren't enough rounds in those guns to take out too many of them." Mardukas said.
"So what does he do?" Kaname asked.
"The Lambda driver is his only option." Tessa said.
"Can't you send backup out there to help him?" Kaname asked.
"It wouldn't do any good at this point." Mardukas said. "With those planes and AS everywhere, we couldn't get anything off the deck without it getting hit."
"GAU–8 ammo expended, switching to M61s." Sousuke said. "Firing."
"He's taken out another nine, Captain." The Radar Officer reported. "But there's still seventy–three hostiles left."
"Expended, switching to second set of M61s." Sousuke said. "Holding fire."
The ship rocked as an explosion went off to the port side. "What was that?" Tessa asked.
"One of the Su–37's tried a kamikaze run." Sousuke reported. "I shot it down."
"Confirmed." The Radar Officer said. "It looks like they're getting desperate."
"How many are left?" Tessa asked.
"Sixty–nine." The Radar Officer replied.
"Captain, I'm seeing an increase in Lambda readings." Mao said.
"From Urzu–4?" Tessa asked.
"No, it's from a Codarl." Mao replied.
"Where did that come from?" Mardukas asked.
"Looks like it was hiding in a transport plane that was shot down." The Radar Officer replied. "Going over the radar tracks shows it launching from the surface a few minutes ago… from a crashed Il–76 that was taken out with shrapnel from Urzu–4's first strike. I didn't notice it with all the other contacts in the air."
"It doesn't matter now." Tessa said.
"Yes it does!" Kaname urged. "He needs backup!"
"Urzu–4, target priority is the inbound Codarl!" Tessa ordered.
–––
Sousuke was being overwhelmed. There were too many aircraft to keep track of and his supply of ammunition was almost gone. Most of them had overflown the Leviathan and gone past the Tuatha De Danaan, firing their guns uselessly as the bullets were simply deflected by the idle Lambda Driver.
"Urzu–4, target priority is the inbound Codarl!" Tessa ordered.
"Understood!" Sousuke replied as he looked on his radar and saw the marked target. "He's not going to get any closer. Al, it's time for the Demolition Gun."
"Remember you need to activate the Lambda Driver for that." Al replied.
"I remember." Sousuke said.
"Urzu–4's Lambda Driver output increasing." Mao said.
The Leviathan pulled out from its shoulder pauldron a large looking rifle and an extension attachment. Sousuke moved the Leviathan in reverse with the trying to keep the VTOL mode stable enough to fire accurately. Sousuke could see the Codarl in the distance closing, colored in a drab olive, it's long "ponytail" was deployed and had on a flimsy looking set of flight wings and was flying straight for the Leviathan. Sousuke took careful aim, using the targeting reticule on his HUD to line up the shot. As the crosshairs matched and a tone sounded, Sousuke pulled the trigger three times in rapid succession.
"Firing!" Sousuke shouted as he sent three shots in rapid succession towards the Codarl. The force of the shots caused the Leviathan's rearward speed to increase dramatically. Two of the shots were deflected by the Codarl's Lambda Driver and the third shot missed as the Codarl dived.
"No!" Sousuke shouted. "Get away from there!" The Leviathan's free hand shot up and the Leviathan was enveloped in a red glow. The Codarl was also enveloped in a red glow and stopped in midair. Sousuke moved the Leviathan's arm and threw the Codarl away from Tuatha De Danaan. It took a moment to recover form its wild tumbling but then began a charge at the Leviathan again.
"That was off the charts!" Mao said in awe.
"Urzu–4, what was that?" Tessa asked.
"I don't know…" Sousuke replied as the Codarl flew ever closer.
"The aircraft are coming around for another pass as well." The Radar Officer reported. "And the Codarl is closing extremely fast!"
"Well do it again, Sousuke!" Kaname shouted. "Whatever you just did, do it again, protect us! You've got to do something, damn it!"
"Lambda Driver readings are higher than they've ever been!" Mao said.
"What?" Mardukas asked.
"Those levels are incredible." Tessa mumbled.
"Sousuke, whatever it is, do it now!" Kaname implored.
"Get away from us!" Sousuke shouted. "You should not be here!"
At Sousuke's angered words the bright red glow enveloped the Leviathan again, pulsating around it and expanding to protect the Tuatha De Danaan. The Codarl impacted the field, its Lambda Driver let out a flash momentarily, trying to push through the red field. As it pushed through its Lambda Driver overloaded, causing a white flash before the Codarl was ripped apart. The sky began to turn red as well, and the other Amalgam planes began getting ripped apart. Then with a quick and brilliant flash everything went dark and Sousuke blacked out.
September 10, 2020 – NERV HQ
It was a lazy Sunday morning at NERV, there hadn't been any contacts in several weeks so they were enjoying the lull in Angel attacks for the time being. Kaji was the officer in charge today, though he didn't see the point of having to watch over the crew in the Command Center himself, as they were more than capable of handling any situation that arose and could call someone higher ranking if needed. Kaji did his best not to pace around too much and decided he would go up to the command level where Misato sometimes sat, and where Gendo Ikari used to lord over the proceedings of the Angel attacks. Taking the commander's chair he sat down and took in the view.
"Wow, it's nice from up here." Kaji joked. "I can see why he was up here so much."
Kaji looked over to the main holographic display and saw the topography of Tokyo–3 and the surrounding area. It looked pretty clear beyond some flights in and out of the city's airport, but he wanted to confirm that was the case before he actually put his feet up for a nap.
"Ahoy, down there!" Kaji said loudly. "Do you see anything of note?"
"No sir, screens are clear and quiet." Sumire replied.
"Just what I wanted to hear." Kaji said as he put his feet up on the desk. "Don't worry, I won't yell at any of you if you do the same."
"Are you sure that's ok, Colonel?" Hideki asked.
"I'm in charge and I say everyone relax a bit." Kaji said. "It's a sleepy Sunday, we don't need to kill ourselves if there's no problems to worry about."
"If you say so, sir." Hideki replied.
"I'm certainly not going to argue." Midori said.
"That's the spirit, everyone." Kaji joked. "Come on Sumire, don't be a spoilsport."
"Alright, fine." Sumire grumbled as she relaxed in her chair.
"See that's not so bad, is it?" Kaji said jovially as he reclined in his chair.
"Colonel, what are you, asleep on the job?" Takao said as he walked into the Command Center. "I figured you would be."
"Koji, what are you doing up here?" Kaji asked.
"I need some requisition requests approved, and seeing as you're the man in the high tower so to speak, your signature will do." Takao replied handing Kaji a stack of requisition forms.
"Do you have a pen?" Kaji sighed as Takao pulled one out of his pocket and handed it too him. "Alrighty… let's see what're buying anyway? Dude, how much wire do you need? And how much solder?"
"I run Tech and Dev, Ryoji." Takao replied with a raised eyebrow. "I use a lot of wire and solder in stuff. Especially with stuff that keeps getting broken in these Angel attacks."
"Hey, we don't break stuff on purpose just so you can fix it. Besides, it's not my money." Kaji joked handing back the paperwork "All approved."
"Thank you, Colonel." Takao replied. "Now I can go back to my office and get some real work done."
"Major, if I were to order you to relax, would you?" Kaji said.
"If it's an order sir, I could be persuaded to take ten minutes." Takao chuckled.
"Good, take a seat." Kaji joked. "May as well watch how we do things up in Tactical."
"Yeah, you guys look really busy." Takao said as he looked down at Sumire, Hideki and Midori relaxing in their seats down below. "Worked to the bone."
Just as everyone was settling in, with Takao and Hideki both close to nodding off an alarm klaxon went off and the lights in the Command Center turned red. Takao fell out of his chair and hit the floor with a thud, as did Hideki. Kaji shot up to attention and leaned over the command console and looked at the holographic display seeing Midori helping Hideki to his feet and Sumire scrambling to identify the cause of the alert.
"Son of a whore…" Takao muttered as he got up off the ground.
"What the hell is that?!" Kaji asked. "Is there a positive wave form analysis?"
"Sir, sensors are detecting a Pattern… Violet?" Sumire said with a confused tone. "What is a Pattern Violet, Colonel?"
"Ah shit." Kaji muttered. "That means there's a wormhole out there somewhere." Kaji looked at the main display. "Where did the Pattern Violet originate?"
"Checking sir." Midori said. "Several hundred kilometers southeast of Tokyo–3, but no exact location."
"Do we have an OBSAT in position?" Kaji asked.
"We do sir, but several of them are not responding." Hideki replied. "It's like they were hit with an EMP or something."
"Aren't they shielded form that kind of stuff?" Kaji asked.
"They're supposed to be…" Hideki replied.
"Sumire, was there any other energy detected with the Pattern Violet?" Kaji asked.
"Checking, Colonel." Sumire replied. "There was a few energy signatures but we can't identify them as of yet."
"Forward it off to Major Ibuki for further analysis." Kaji said. "Takao, you may want to get ready for some stuff to break."
"Yeah, I'll go get me department ready." Takao said as he left. "Thanks for the few minutes of peace, Colonel."
"Yeah, yeah." Kaji replied as he rolled his eyes. "Alright, given what happened last time, if it's the Gundams again, they should be able to make contact. If not we should be at least minimally prepared. Set Level–3 battle stations and put the AIS on standby mode."
"Right away, Colonel." Midori replied.
"What about an alert sir?" Hideki asked. "Should we warn the public?"
"At this stage, no. We don't have any confirmation of what's going on as of yet." Kaji said. "We just need to be prepared for the worst, as it happens so often around here."
"Just an ordinary Sunday, eh Colonel?" Sumire joked.
"Yeah… just an Ordinary Sunday." Kaji sighed. "Who's on base?"
"What's on second if I recall…" Midori giggled.
"I don't know's on third." Hideki joked.
"Why…?" Kaji muttered.
"He's in left field." Sumire chimed in.
"Guys, as funny as the pre–Second Impact bit is and how much I appreciate the effort you've put into this glorious moment, now isn't the time." Kaji said sternly. "Which kids are here if any?"
"Shinji, Mari and Hikari are here for medical checkups." Sumire said. "I'll get them to the Cage immediately."
"No, get them dressed for the fight and off to the briefing room." Kaji said. "I'll call the Commander and tell her the fun news if she doesn't know it already, we have visitors."
"I'll contact Maya and have her prep Unit–01, Unit–05, and Unit–06 for launch as well." Midori said.
"Good thinking." Kaji said.
"What about the other pilots?" Sumire asked.
"Don't contact them yet." Kaji said. "Three Evangelions should be plenty to handle whatever came through that wormhole. At least I hope so."
–––
Sousuke awoke slumped in his controls. He was in a daze. The last thing he remembered was everything turning red and then nothing.
"Sergeant Major, are you ok?" Al asked.
"W…wha?" Sousuke stammered, barely able to comprehend what was happening. "Al, wh… what happened?"
"The Lambda Driver went into a controlled overload and then it shut down after a bright flash. I took automated control to keep us form crashing." Al explained. "All sensors are down, the palladium reactors were stable through the event and are operating normally and we are hovering safely at flight level zero–nine–five."
"What about the Tuatha De Danaan?" Sousuke asked.
"Communications are also down." Al said. "But they are nearby I believe."
"Do we have visual sensors yet?" Sousuke asked as he shook his head.
"Low–res only." Al replied. "They were offline at the time of the event and were unaffected."
"Sounds like some kind of EMP…" Sousuke muttered as he looked at the visual feed and saw the Tuatha De Danaan some distance away. "There it is, the ship looks intact."
"I have the radar back online." Al announced.
"Any contacts?" Sousuke asked.
"None." Al replied.
"Do we have autopilot?" Sousuke asked.
"You have me, Sergeant Major." Al replied.
"Alright, let's set up a defensive perimeter around the Tuatha De Danaan." Sousuke said. "Set autopilot for a ten kilometer radius, flight level one–one–five, speed 175 knots."
"Are you feeling alright, Sergeant Major?" Al asked.
"No, I'm still a bit dazed." Sousuke replied. "What's our ammo status?"
"Two of the M61s have some ammo remaining, and the Demolition Gun still has seven rounds, plus four reloads." Al explained. "The smaller guns still have all their ammo, and we have a full stock of grenades." Al paused. "Perhaps you should rest. I will let you know when the communications are back up, or if there are any contacts on the radar."
"Alright." Sousuke said.
–––
Shinji was walking out of the locker room towards the briefing room. He was once again in his plugsuit waiting to be deployed for yet another mission. As he got to the briefing room he met Mari and Hikari, also in their plugsuits and waiting patiently for someone to tell them what was going on.
"Happy Sunday, puppy." Mari joked as Shinji came in.
"Mari, I drove you here." Shinji said.
"I know that, but it's a new day, with a new alert." Mari replied. "That's why we're all dressed up to fight isn't it?"
"I suppose so." Shinji said.
"Yeah, but we have no idea what's going on." Hikari said.
"That's normal though." Mari chuckled. "We usually find things out as they happen."
"Hey, Hikari, don't be nervous." Shinji said reassuringly. "If it was an Angel there would have been a lot more activity in the corridors."
"So what could it be?" Hikari asked.
"I dunno, but I think we're about to find out." Mari replied as the door to the briefing room opened. "Hey there scruffy, miso."
"Good morning Mari." Misato said in a tired, monotone voice.
"Hey there, Mari." Kaji said.
"So uh… what's up?" Mari asked.
"Do you have to be so direct so early?" Misato asked.
"Misato it's almost noon…" Shinji muttered.
"I know, and it was my day off!" Misato moaned.
"I know, Misato." Kaji said. "But we have a situation, and you need to be here."
"Yeah, whatever…" Misato muttered.
"And the situation is…?" Mari prodded.
"There was a Pattern Violet detected about an hour ago." Kaji said. "No source or any contacts have been detected as of yet."
"So why in hell are we dressed up to fight?" Mari asked.
"As a precaution." Misato said. "Kaji thought it was a good idea."
"So why just us?" Hikari asked. "Why not the others?"
"You were on base." Kaji said. "The others checkups are in…" Kaji looked at the clock. "Five hours or so, so they'll be here eventually. Besides, three Evangelions are pretty formidable against just about anything."
"So you don't think it's the Gundams then." Shinji said.
"No, they would have contacted us by now." Misato said. "They would still be able form what Maya told me, so we're ninety–five percent sure it isn't them."
"Leaving some room for doubt, I see." Mari purred.
"No, that's the MAGI's analysis." Misato replied.
"So what are we supposed to do, go to the Cage and just chill until the shit hits the fan?" Mari asked.
"Yes and no." Kaji said. "Maya already ran your EVAs though a pre–launch check, you just have to get in and go, but only when we've identified something. You'll be chilling in the Command Center with us until it's time to go."
"Ooooh, we don't go there much anymore." Mari said. "Now I'm excited."
"Yeah, it should be fun." Hikari said.
"So that's it?" Shinji asked.
"Well as of right now, no alert has gone out to the public and we're at Level–3 battle stations as a precaution, besides getting you guys ready to launch."
"Yeah, we're trying our best to keep you as informed as possible." Misato said. "I mean you may as well be as in the dark as the rest of us."
"That's very nice of you, miso." Mari said.
"Well if do launch without Asuka, she's gonna be upset." Shinji said. "She hates missing a chance to pilot."
"You mean to show off." Mari giggled.
"Mari…" Shinji grimaced. "Can you go one day without making fun?"
"Nope… what fun would that be?" Mari replied.
–––
Tessa was staring at the main display in shock. She had just picked herself up off the deck and looked over to see Kaname and everyone else doing the same. She felt as though they had just dropped and slammed into the water. The main display was in low–res mode but showed clear skies overhead. The force of Amalgam Arm Slaves and aircraft assaulting the Tuatha De Danaan were suddenly gone, the sky was no longer red, and the Tuatha De Danaan and Leviathan seemed to be the only things being detected intermittently on radar and sonar.
"Status report!" Tessa ordered a she pulled herself back into her command chair.
"All weapons systems are offline." The Weapons Officer said with a note of concern.
"No damage reported" The Damage Control Officer replied. "No hull breaches or hull buckling detected."
"As far as I can tell, the Leviathan is in the air." The Flight Officer reported. "Trying to confirm that now."
"I do not have a current fix on our position." The Navigation Officer replied.
"Helm control offline." The Helm Officer said. "Engine room not responding."
"The radar fix is intermittent, but I believe they are clear." The Radar Officer replied. "I can't tell of the Leviathan is there."
"Ditto on the sonar, Captain." The Sonar Officer replied. "Seems clear."
"Seems?" Mardukas said incredulously.
"What happened?" Kaname asked.
"I don't know." Tessa said. "Do we have communications?"
"No, ma'am." The Communications Officer replied. "Internal and external communications are down."
"Tessa, what about Sousuke?" Kaname asked.
"We'll use the external cameras to try and find him for now." Tessa replied. "And we'll send a few people out on deck to take a look with binoculars."
"Alright." Kaname said. "Can I…?"
"I'd prefer you to stay here for now, Kaname." Tessa said. "Flight, can you open the flight deck and have two of our UAVs prepped for launch?"
"Yes, Captain." The Flight Officer replied. "But with the shaky comms, controlling them will be difficult." The Flight Officer sighed. "And the hull hatches are responding."
"Radar, sonar, communications." Tessa said. "Shut down your systems and do a cold restart. Go to the duty stations do it manually. As soon as they're back online report to the bridge immediately."
"Understood!" The three officers replied in unison as they got up and left.
"Commander Mardukas, I need you to go find Major Clouseau." Tessa said. "Have him organize a deck by deck search for damage and intruders. Then go down to the engine room and find out if there's any problems there."
"Right away, Captain Testarossa." Mardukas replied.
"Captain Mao, go with the Commander and take a few of Urzu Squadron up to the sail and do a visual check for Urzu–4."
"Understood, Captain." Mao replied.
"Is there anything I can do, Tessa?" Kaname asked.
"No, just take a seat somewhere and relax." Tessa replied as she got up and started pacing. "I don't like having to wait. I wish we had gotten Dana back online before we launched though…"
"That's the ship's A.I. right?" Kaname asked.
"Yes, we just didn't have time to test the system properly before we left to rescue you." Tessa replied. "Not that I blame you… but she could help diagnose some of the ship's problems from here."
"No, I understand." Kaname replied as she stared at the now blank radar screen.
Tessa began to pace back and forth in front of her command chair, waiting for one of her officers to report back to the bridge. To her it seemed like hours were passing even though it had only been a half an hour. Finally, Mardukas was the first one back, and he had a walkie–talkie in hand.
"Captain, the engine room reports no damage to the reactors." Mardukas said. "They were stable up until the impact and SCRAMed briefly after whatever happened and came back online automatically a few minutes later. Propulsion should be back online shortly." Mardukas handed her the walkie–talkie. "These are being distributed until commutations are brought back online."
"Good work, Commander." Tessa said.
"Captain, we have good news." Mao said over the radio.
"Report." Tessa replied.
"Urzu–4 just landed on deck. He's alright." Mao replied. "But the elevator appears to be down so he'll be up there for a bit."
"Is he alright?"
"Doesn't seem to have taken any damage." Mao replied. "Soon as the elevator is online we'll get him below."
"Excellent." Tessa said. "Keep me informed."
"Aye aye, Captain." Mao replied.
"Kaname, Sousuke is safe and sound on the flight deck."
"That's great news!" Kaname said happily as the screen in front of her came to life. "Uh, Tessa, this screen is back online."
Tessa looked over and saw the radar readout showing the Tuatha De Danaan alone in the ocean. "Well at least Amalgam's forces are gone."
"Captain, internal communications are back online." Mardukas said. "Engine room reports engines are on standby and awaiting orders."
"What about external communications and sonar?" Tessa asked.
"External communications are back online as well." Mardukas reported as the Radar and Communications Officers returned to the bridge. "They're having some trouble with the sonar."
"Understood." Tessa replied. "Navigation?"
"I only have a radar fix to work with, but I'm not detecting any of the usual navigational aids, there's no GPS fix, I'm not even picking up a LORAN signal." The Navigation Officer said. "I'll use the astro–inertial system… which says we're in the middle of the Australian Outback…"
"Communications, can you contact Merida Island?" Tessa asked.
"No ma'am, I haven't had any luck establishing contact." The Communication's Officer replied.
"Flight, when can you get those drone in the air?" Tessa asked.
"I was just told the flight elevator is operational, they're heading up to the flight deck now, and Urzu–4 will be brought down." The Flight Officer replied.
"As soon as they're in the air, seal the flight deck and take us to periscope depth." Tessa ordered.
"Without sonar?" Mardukas asked.
"We'll have to if we're to assume we're still in danger of being found by Amalgam." Tessa said. "Use the drones to ascertain where we are and then see if we can figure out what happened."
–––
Misato led the group to the Command Center. As they got in on the main level they saw Maya was already there looking over the data that was recorded during the Pattern Violet. Maya was tapping away at the computer terminal, engrossed in the data that she jumped when Misato spoke to her.
"What do have, Maya?" Misato asked.
"Jesus… do you walk silently on purpose?" Maya asked.
"Hey, it's not my fault you were engrossed." Misato replied. "So, what have you learned?"
"Well it's definitely a Pattern Violet, but it's a little different for the last time." Maya explained. "The energy pattern is similar, but it's like it's artificially enhanced…" Maya sighed. "We know it's not Unit–01's signature as Shinji hasn't flown into a furious rage recently."
"Yeah, I haven't done any of that." Shinji said. "Not in a long time."
"And we're all glad for it too, Shinji." Kaji said. "Not that it wasn't… interesting when it happened."
"Kaji!" Misato said admonishingly as she slapped Kaji in the back of the head.
"What? I'm being honest with him." Kaji said. "It was always interesting and frankly impressive."
"Can we get back on topic, please?" Shinji asked. "I don't like remembering all that… rage…"
"Come on, puppy, he's right, it was really impressive." Mari said.
"Mari…" Hikari muttered. "Please stop…"
"Yes, Captain Makinami." Misato said sternly. "Please stop."
"Why do you always pull rank when I get mouthy?" Mari asked.
"Because it usually shuts you up." Misato replied.
"Alright, so you were saying, Maya?" Kaji said stopping a potential argument between Misato and Mari from starting.
"Right, where was I… oh right!" Maya said. "Well we know none of the Evangelions caused this, none of them have created the right energy signature to open a wormhole, and if any Angel or dare I say Evangelion we don't know about caused this we would have picked up their wave form pattern. So my best guess is that the wormhole was created from the other side. And the MAGI seem to have come to the same conclusion."
"So they have the ability to create an A.T. Field strong enough to open a wormhole." Misato said. "Wonderful…"
"Yeah, that doesn't bode well at all." Hikari said quietly.
"No it doesn't." Kaji said. "So what about the other energy signatures that were detected? Was one of them an EMP?"
"Oh there was an EMP alright. It radiated upwards out of the wormhole and expanded exponentially as it gained altitude. It knocked out at least seven OBSATs so we still don't have satellite coverage in the area at all, they'll be out for at least four more hours." Maya explained. "There's still one energy signature we can't identify, but I'm hoping we're able to figure that out soon. It seems to have been dissipating as the wormhole opened so the signature wasn't that strong, but from what I can see it looks similar to an A.T. Field."
"An A.T. Field?" Misato asked.
"Shit…" Kaji muttered.
"What do you like an A.T. Field?" Mari asked.
"Well without more data I can't be sure, but like I said it seems artificially enhanced." Maya said. "But unless we find the signature again, I can't be certain."
"So we still have no idea what's going on." Misato asked.
"Well I wouldn't call it no idea." Maya said. "We just don't know who's out there."
"Or what." Shinji muttered.
"Look, we'll figure it out." Kaji said. "We usually do."
"Operative word being usually." Mari quipped.
"Uh Commander, Colonel, we're detecting a faint energy signature." Sumire said. "It's approaching the city at a slow speed, and it's airborne."
"What kind of energy signature?" Misato asked.
"I dunno, it's on the visual EM spectrum." Sumire said. "I can't identify it."
"Can I see?" Maya asked. "Well it's small, that's for sure. And it looks like there's an identical signature heading for Old Tokyo."
"Sounds like a recon mission." Kaji said. "Maybe our visitors?"
"Yeah, but why send something towards Old Tokyo…" Misato muttered.
"Yeah, it's a nuclear wasteland." Mari said.
"Maybe in their reality it's still there." Kaji said.
"It's entirely possible." Maya replied.
"So should we get in the EVAs?" Shinji asked.
"Not yet." Misato said. "But that possibility is becoming more likely."
"Wonderful…" Shinji muttered.
–––
Tessa was sitting impatiently on the bridge. Kaname had left some time ago to meet Sousuke and see if he was alright and Mardukas was pacing impatiently behind her command chair. It had been several hours since the UAVs were launched and they had not yet reached land. Tessa had gotten up to retreat to her office to escape the monotonous waiting and deafening silence on the bridge but the Flight Officer called her as she got to the hatch to catch her attention.
"Captain, the drone controllers have made contact with a landmass." The Flight Officer reported.
"Bring the feeds up on the main monitor." Tessa ordered.
Both drones were over what looked a lot like Japan, but the cityscapes were different, the coast seemed much too far inland, and many recognizable landmarks seemed to be missing.
"Is that supposed to be Japan?" Tessa asked.
"It looks, wrong." Mardukas said.
"I don't know ma'am." The Flight Officer said. "Recon Two is in the vicinity of what should be Tokyo, but it appears to be… gone."
"Have them get in as close as they can, I want confirmation." Tessa said in a worried voice.
"Recon Two is moving in on what definitely looks like Tokyo. The topography is similar, but the water levels are all wrong." The Flight Officer said. "Recon Two is within what should be the city limits… whoa that's a huge spike in radiation."
"What?" Mardukas snapped.
"Radiation? In Tokyo?" Tessa asked.
"The level of radiation puts a detonation about fifteen to twenty years ago." Mardukas muttered. "Depending on warhead yield of course."
"The entire city is flooded." The Flight Officer said. "And that's Tokyo Tower over there… there's no signs of life anywhere in the city limits."
"How can the city be this devastated?" Tessa asked. "We just picked up supplies from there this morning."
"I don't know Captain. This all seems unusual." Mardukas said. "Are there any signs of life near Tokyo?"
"I'll pan the camera…" The Flight Officer said. "Looks like there's some buildings in the distance, to the southeast. Looks like five giant buildings grouped near each other and then some scattered smaller ones. Looks industrial though."
"Have the pilot fly it in that direction to see what those buildings are." Mardukas said.
"Yes, sir." The Flight Officer replied.
"What about Recon One?" Tessa asked as she looked at the display screen. "Is that a city?"
"It looks like it, Captain." The Flight Officer said. "It looks to be very well protected too."
"Can we identify the city we're flying towards?" Tessa asked.
"Based on its location and the topography, it looks like it should be Hakone, but that's not Hakone, it looks like a fortress."
"How long until Recon One reaches the city?" Mardukas asked.
"It's outside the city limits, probably a few minutes." The Flight Officer said.
"Keep it outside the city limits. We have no idea if that city is a threat or not." Mardukas said. "Captain, I recommend we bring back Recon Two and leave Recon One in a holding pattern for a few hours to monitor any activity in that city."
"That's very cautious." Tessa said. "But we have no idea what's going on here…" Tessa paused to think. "Perhaps we should send Urzu Squadron to investigate."
"Ma'am?" Mardukas asked.
"Well, we need to investigate what's going on here, and Arm Slaves are the most versatile tools at our disposal." Tessa replied. "Recall Recon Two and keep Recon One on station, it'll be our eyes. Have Urzu–1, Urzu–2, Urzu–3 and Urzu–4 prepped to launch to the large city."
"All the Lambda Driver equipped units?" Mardukas asked.
"Yes, send Urzu–6 and Urzu–9 as support. They can land on shore and keep at a distance then we can call back Drone Two. Prep two MH–67s and the four EXL–45s to transport them." Tessa ordered. "Then let me know when the operation is about to commence."
"Aye Aye, Captain." Mardukas replied.
–––
It had been several hours since the kids had been told to get in their plugsuits. Shinji hated sitting around and waiting because it was nerve wracking to wait for the other shoe to drop. Mari had ended up leaning against him and dozing off while Hikari just sat quietly looking at what Sumire and the others were doing.
"Hey, Hikari, are you ok?" Shinji asked.
"Yeah, I'm just nervous." Hikari replied. "This waiting isn't very fun."
"Look, I'm sure if we deploy we'll be fine." Shinji said. "Besides, me and Mari will there to protect you."
"I know, but this would only be my second time." Hikari said. "Does… does it get any easier?"
"Do you want the truth?" Shinji asked.
"I think I can handle it." Hikari replied.
"No, it doesn't get any easier." Shinji said. "There's always a little fear going out there, but… but it's easier to bury that when you know the fate of humanity is on your shoulders."
"That makes it easier?" Hikari asked. "That just makes me more anxious."
"Well, as long as you focus on your purpose, everything will be fine." Shinji said. "Sorry if that's not a good pep talk though."
"No, it was fine." Hikari said. "I guess I'm more nervous because Toji isn't here."
"It'll be ok." Shinji said. "Whatever's going on, we can handle it."
"You really think so?" Hikari said.
"Yeah, what did Kaji tell me once? Luck is my special skill." Shinji joked.
"Well it's served you pretty well so far." Hikari said.
"Yeah it has. Luck protects fools, children, and ships named Enterprise." Kaji said as he walked over to check on the kids. "So how are you all doing?"
"We're ok." Hikari replied as Mari let out a loud snore. "Well she certainly is."
"Well at least she's in prime form today." Kaji said. "Will you uh… be able to wake her up if we need to launch you guys?"
"Yeah, I can handle that." Shinji said. "Don't worry."
"Good." Kaji said as an alert went off behind them. "Sounds like we got something."
"Colonel, Commander?" Sumire said. "OBSAT–9 is online and coming over the area where the wormhole originated."
"Bring up on the display." Misato ordered.
An image came onto the screen showing the open ocean and the southern coast of Japan. At such a wide angle nothing was clearly distinguishable except for a red arrow pointing out the location of Tokyo–3.
"That's a lot of ocean." Misato said. "Can you zoom in on the approximate area where the wormhole originated? A twenty kilometer wide search?"
"Yes, ma'am." Sumire replied.
The camera zoomed in and as the feed depixelated a large black shape took form that seemed out of place in the sea of blue.
"Well that's something." Kaji said. "What the hell is it?"
"Focus on that and zoom in." Misato said.
The satellite feed pixelated again and it centered on a large black ship sitting in the water. The watched as its dorsal hull began to open up revealing what looked like a flight deck. At this point, Shinji, realizing Mari needed to wake up shook her so much she fell out of her chair and hit the floor with a thud.
"Puppy, why?" Mari groaned sleepily.
"Look up at the screen, Mari." Shinji said.
Mari looked up and saw the ship sitting in the water. "Ooooh, that looks interesting. What is it?"
"Yeah, what the fuck is that?" Misato asked.
"It looks like a submarine that can launch planes." Kaji said. "Cause that looks an awful lot like a flight deck."
"Should we inform the JSSDF?" Sumire asked.
"At that distance, no JSSDF or Coast Guard vessel will get there inside four or five hours." Kaji said. "I'd say we should if they want any hope of intercepting whatever it is."
"I would as well." Yuki said as she entered the Command Center.
"Yes, thank you Chief Inspector, we are aware of our obligations." Misato said. "But this is threat isn't of this world."
"What are you talking about?" Yuki asked.
"Do you recall reading a file about Gundams?" Misato asked.
"Well yes, something about wormholes and dimensional crossover. Sounded like complete science fiction." Yuki replied.
"Well science fiction, meet reality." Misato said as she motioned to the monitor. "There was a Pattern Violet a few hours ago and we finally have a visual."
"So that's why we're at Level–3 battle stations?" Yuki asked.
"Yes, and if we can get back to…" Misato began.
"Commander, there's some activity happening." Sumire said. "You may want to take a look."
"What is it now?" Misato asked.
They all watched as several large objects were moved onto the ship's flight deck. The first two were helicopters that moved off to the sides of the aircraft elevator. Then one by one larger winged machines were up to the fight deck. They looked like small mobile suits with wings attached.
"Are those Aries Mobile Suits?" Misato asked.
"No the wings are different." Shinji said. "They're way too big."
"They look less beefy too." Mari said. "Those don't look anything like what we saw when the Gundams showed up."
"Well it definitely is a carrier of some kind then." Kaji said.
"It also looks like they're launching, three, no four of those whatever they are." Sumire said. "And two helicopters too."
"Sounds like you kids will be launching after all." Misato said. "Sumire, contact Maya and tell her we'll deploying them, and have her prep the other four just in case."
"Really Commander?" Yuki asked. "You're prepping all seven Evangelions for launch?"
"No only three are launching." Misato replied. "But I'll be damned if I let things go south without having backup ready to go. The others should be here shortly so I'll inform them of what's going on when they arrive."
"What about our alert status?" Hideki asked.
"Set Level–2 battle stations and put out an alert to the city for everyone to get to shelters immediately. Keep the AIS in standby mode, I don't want whoever is launching to get the idea that we know they're coming." Misato ordered. "Hopefully it won't take too long for the civilians to get to the shelters safely."
"And what about the city itself, Commander?" Yuki asked.
"Well, unless we have a confirmed track of hem heading towards, the city isn't going to be lowered until the last possible moment." Misato replied.
"Ah, the element of surprise." Kaji said. "Always the best way to go."
"It's the only way to go when you have no idea what you're up against." Misato replied.
"Yeah and the three giant Evangelions in purple, pink and teal are so covert…" Mari quipped. "We'll definitely be able to hide those."
–––
The flight deck of the Tuatha De Danaan was crowded. Three of the new and improved Arbalests were on deck fitted out with their EXL–45 flight wings, and the Leviathan had simply been rearmed and brought back up. Two M9G Super Gernsbacks were also on deck stowed under two MH–67 Pave Mare's awaiting transport. Clouseau was just behind the flight line next to Sousuke and the Leviathan awaiting Kurz in his blue trimmed Arbalest and Mao in her purple trimmed Arbalest to launch and clear the way for them.
"Flight, this is Urzu–1, we're ready up here." Clouseau said.
"Flight Urzu–2, I'm on launcher one, ready to go." Mao said.
"Flight, Urzu–3, all systems nominal, ready on launcher two." Kurz reported.
"Urzu–1, this is flight, we copy." The Flight officer replied. "Urzu–2, Urzu–3 please hold for takeoff authorization. The Pave Mares are launching first with Urzu–6 and Urzu–9."
"Understood." Clouseau replied.
"Copy." Mao and Kurz said in unison.
"Gebo–2, Gebo–4 prepare for takeoff, you are cleared to move aft off the flight deck once you reach 200 feet." The Flight Officer said.
"Copy flight." Gebo–2 replied. "Taking off."
Both helicopters took off together, moving up and then rotating right to face the rear of the ship and moved off away from the flight deck.
"Urzu–2, Urzu–3 final flight check." The Flight Officer said.
"This is Urzu–2, flaps are good, palladium reactors are online, both engines are at idle, and Lambda Driver is in standby mode." Mao said.
"Flight, Urzu–3,control surfaces check, all systems nominal, Lambda Driver also set to standby mode." Kurz replied.
"Copy." The Flight Officer said. "Tow bars are locked, jet blast defector raised. Catapults are primed… Launching Urzu–2 and Urzu–3."
Clouseau watched as Mao followed moments later by Kurz took off, their engines roaring to life as their Arm Slaves flew off the deck and into the air, gracefully streaking away from the Tuatha De Danaan.
"Urzu–2, Urzu–3, move to flight level zero–five–five and hold at three kilometers out." The Flight Officer ordered.
"Understood." Mao replied.
"See you in minute, guys." Kurz joked.
"Quiet on the comms, Urzu–3." Clouseau admonished. "We're prepping for launch down here." Clouseau moved his orange and black trimmed Arbalest forward as the blast deflectors were put down, taking up position on launcher one. He looked over to his let and saw the Leviathan take up position on launcher two. "Urzu–4, are you ready?"
"Affirmative, Urzu–1." Sousuke replied.
"Good to hear." Clouseau said. "Flight, we're ready."
"Final checks Urzu–1, Urzu–4." The Flight Officer said.
"All systems are ready for launch." Sousuke replied.
"My board is green." Cousteau said. "Let's do this."
"Copy." The Flight Officer said. "Tow bars are locked, jet blast defector raised. Catapults are primed… Launching Urzu–1 and Urzu–4."
Clouseau felt the catapult let loose and was shoved back in his restraints as the two engines on the EXL–45 opened up to full afterburner. The g–forces gave him a rush of adrenaline as his Arbalest's feet left the deck. He lowered the thrust to a more appropriate level for flight and pulled up.
"Urzu–1, your team is cleared for flight level zero–five–five." The Flight Officer said. "LZ is 210 kilometers on heading three–zero–seven from our current position."
"Copy that flight." Clouseau said. "Alright, we're gonna be flying in a diamond formation, Gebo–2 Gebo–4 take up position between us. Urzu–2 take point, I'll cover the left, Urzu–3 take the right position, and Urzu–4 you're the rear guard."
"Understood." Sousuke said.
"Just like in the briefing." Kurz said.
Mao broke off from Kurz and flew ahead with the two helicopters flying into formation a safe distance behind her. Kurz flew into his right handed positon taking station. Clouseau and Sousuke flew together with Sousuke dropping back to take up his rear guard position with Clouseau taking his left handed position.
"Good, let's keep our eyes open out here." Clouseau said.
"Yes, please be cautious. No unnecessary risks. We'll be steaming towards shore in case you need a more immediate rescue." Tessa said. "Good hunting everyone."
"Thank you, Captain." Clouseau replied. "Alright everyone, engage ECS and let's go."
–––
Misato was on the command level of Command Center watching everything unfold beneath her. Fuyutsuki was down from his quarters, even though it wasn't an Angel attack, his expertise could at least be useful in fashion. Kaji was pacing down below behind Sumire, Hikari and Midori. Misato looked at the main holographic display showing a flight of six aircraft or mobiles suits incoming, though it wasn't a clear look because they were using some sort of camouflage to hide themselves from radar.
"Status of the civilians?" Misato asked.
"All block captains have reported shelters are full and secure." Midori replied.
"Set Level–1 battle stations, and have the city on standby to go into battle configuration." Misato ordered.
"Keep the AIS on standby too, we don't want the targeting arrays tipping them off we know they're coming towards us." Kaji ordered.
"Good call, Colonel." Misato said. "Sumire, can you get me Maya?"
"Yes, ma'am." Sumire replied. "She's on speaker."
"Commander?" Maya asked.
"Are they ready to go?" Misato asked.
"The kids are in their Entry plugs waiting to be put in, just waiting for activation." Maya said.
"Alright, turn control over to Sumire and we'll get this party started." Misato quipped.
"Removing Signal Termination Plugs now… transferring activation control from the Cage to the Command Center." Maya said. "They're all yours Sumire."
"Thank you, Major Ibuki, I have control." Sumire said. "Prepping for simultaneous activation… Entry Plugs are being inserted… Entry Plugs are now locked in place." Sumire paused. "Connecting Entry Plugs to the Evangelions… Unit–01 connected… Unit–05 connected… Unit–06 connected… flooding Entry Plugs with LCL now… flooding is compete."
"You're doing well." Kaji said. "Very by the numbers."
"Booting primary systems now… life support online… internal data recorders are running." Sumire checked her screens. "Unit–01's S2 Engine is coming online… Unit–05's S2 Engine is coming online… Unit–06's S2 Engine is coming online… all three S2 Engines are stable… power output is optimal and steady." Sumire paused. "Now establishing secondary connections… electrolyzing LCL now… secondary connections established… A10 nerve connections online and nominal… LCL pressure and charge are within normal operating range… Configuring language logic interface in Unit–01, Unit–05, and Unit–06 for Japanese… all preliminary contacts have now been established… performance is nominal… opening bi–directional circuits… bi–directional circuits are open and transmitting… transmission strength and modulation is within normal parameters… brain wave pattern and harmonics are normal… Shinji's life signs are normal… synchronization ratio is at 155% and steady… Mari's life signs are optimal but her heart rate is elevated slightly, and her adrenal gland is very active… her synchronization ratio is 115% and steady… Hikari's life signs are stable, but show elevated stress levels… her synchronization ratio is 81.8% and holding… communications with the Entry Plugs are open on a two–way secured channel… wireless communications have been established."
"Excellent." Kaji said. "Alright, sound off everyone."
"I'm here." Hikari said.
"So am I scruffy." Mari said happily. "I love the smell of LCL in the afternoon."
"I'm ready, Kaji." Shinji replied.
"Alright, Sumire, get them online." Kaji said.
"Yes, sir." Sumire replied. "Begging nerve connection process… nerve connections on all Evangelions are established through 1890… 1960… 2340… 2500…2620… clear to 2740… 3100… absolute borderline in 90… 75… 50… 30… 10… absolute borderline passed… nerve connections now connected through 3510 and active… Evangelion Unit–01, Evangelion Unit–05 and Evangelion Unit–06 are now online."
"Excellent." Kaji said happily. "Commander, are we clear to launch?"
"The show is yours Colonel." Misato said. "I'm just here to observe."
"Thank you, Commander." Kaji replied. "Alright Sumire, begin launch sequence."
"Understood." Sumire replied. "Beginning launch sequence now… releasing primary lock bolts… primary lock blots released… retracting umbilical bridge… disengaging secondary lock bolts… releasing safety locks 1 through 15… all safety locks have been released, Unit–01, Unit–05 and Unit–06 are free from lockdown and ready for transfer to launch positions."
"Good." Kaji said. "Weapons?"
"Unit–01 is outfitted in Type–I Offensive A.T. Field Control Equipment, Unit–05 is outfitted in the Type–E/2A Heavy Armament Equipment, and Unit–06 is outfitted with the Type–G Precision Targeting Equipment and will have the new Heavy Buster Rifle ready on the surface." Hideki replied.
"The Type–E/2A is the one with the guns, right?" Kaji asked.
"Yeah, it has a pair of large caliber Quad–Barrel Rail Guns loaded with special exploding Anti A.T. Field rounds, with fifty Anti A.T. Field missiles." Hideki said.
"Seems like an odd loadout for something that's not an Angel." Yuki said.
"Not really, Maya detected what could be an A.T. Field from that wormhole." Kaji replied. "Just covering all our bases."
"What about the other EVAs?" Misato asked.
"Maya is outfitting Unit–02 with the Type–I, Unit–03 and Unit–04 with the Type–E/2B, the one with the positron/beam rifle combo and AATF missiles, and Unit–07 is being deployed with melee equipment, two beam sabres." Hideki replied.
"Maya, how long until those are ready?" Kaji asked.
"Twenty minutes, give or take." Maya replied. "They'll be on standby if they're needed."
"Good, we're in great shape then." Kaji said. "Sumire, are we ready to go?"
"Launch pads are locked in place, Colonel." Sumire replied. "Disconnecting umbilical cables… S2 Engines now running without external support or control… closest intercept point has been selected… launch path is clear and open… all systems online… verified all systems online… board is green." Sumire reported. "Evangelion Unit–01, Unit–05, and Unit–06 are cleared for launch at your discretion, Colonel."
"Colonel, those bogies are approaching the shoreline and are slowing down." Midori said. "Looks like we have our landing point."
"Alright then, let me know when they make landfall." Kaji said.
"Yes, sir." Midori replied.
"Pilots, are you ready?" Kaji asked.
"Yes." Shinji replied.
"I am." Hikari replied.
"Scruffy, I have a question first." Mari replied. "What happens when I run out of ammo?"
"Mari, you don't have permission to fire unless fired upon." Kaji said. "We learned that from last time."
"Yes, but, if I do have to fire and run out of ammo?" Mari asked again.
Kaji sighed. "Eject the equipment and we'll drop you some weapons."
"Awesome." Mari said excitedly. "Ok, I'm ready now."
"Good, now that that's settled." Kaji replied. "Evangelion Unit–01… Evangelion Unit–05… Evangelion Unit–06… LAUNCH!"
–––
Clouseau was getting impatient. Having to escort the transport choppers meant they were flying at a relatively slow speed. It had taken them far longer to get to land then he'd hoped, but there wasn't much he could do about. He spotted land on his radar readout.
"Alright, everyone, get ready to and detach your EXL–45s. Have them set to hold at high altitude at holding position alpha." Clouseau ordered. "Gebo–2, Gebo–4, prepare to drop your payloads and move out to holding position bravo."
"Understood." Everyone replied.
Clouseau switched himself to VTOL mode over the coast and detached himself from the flight wing. He felt the rush as his Arbalest dropped to the ground, impacting the sand with a soft cushioned landing. He brought his Arm Slave up to full height and watched as the shimmers of the other ECSs hit the ground, sending up small puffs of sand.
"This is Gebo–2, we're moving off shore. We'll be able to hold station for three hours before Gebo–1 comes to refuel us." Gebo–2 said. "We can do a rapid pickup if necessary."
"Understood, Gebo–2. Hopefully we won't need a quick evac for Urzu–6 and Urzu–9." Clouseau replied. "Alright, Urzu–6, Urzu–9, you'll be holding here. Keep your ECS on and don't let anyone see you."
"You got it, Urzu–1." Speck said.
"Urzu–9, head over to that hill over there and take a defensive position." Flash replied. "We'll hold down the fort, Urzu–1."
"Radio us if you get into trouble." Clouseau said. "All right, everyone else, let's move out. That city is a few kilometers from here."
"Based off the drone footage, there's mountains and a lake between us and that city." Kurz said. "It's a lot further than a few kilometers."
"Alright so it's further. Does it matter?" Clouseau asked. "I'm not asking you to walk, Urzu–3."
"Still, it's a long trek." Kurz complained.
"Oh be quiet, Urzu–3." Mao snapped. "Urzu–1, where exactly are we going?"
"Well according to the topography that city is in Hakone on the north end of Lake Ashinoko. We landed in what remains of Yugawara so northwest over these mountains will get us to that lake." Clouseau explained. "Now let's climb that mountain and see what's on the other side."
"Should we keep our ECS engaged?" Sousuke asked.
"Yes, no unnecessary risks, remember?" Clouseau said.
The four of them moved out, following a partially flooded valley that led to a high mountain crest. They made good time in the valley, winding around heading in a general northwesterly direction. Their ground speed was reduced due to the power requirements of the ECS, but after a good half an hour, they reached the base of the mountain.
"Alright everyone, slow and steady." Clouseau said. "We don't need anyone falling down and needing an SAR team to be sent out."
The movement up the mountain was slow at best. The side of the mountain wasn't steep, but it was rough terrain, which made balancing the hardest part in an almost nine meter tall mech. They had not yet seen any other signs of life but continued moving as quickly as they could, taking almost as long to climb the mountain as it took to get to it.
"Well would you look at that." Clouseau said as they reached the summit. Below them was Lake Ashinoko shimmering in the afternoon sunlight. Off in the distance, Mount Fuji was visible, with a fresh cap of its iconic snow peached on top. "What a beautiful sight."
"It is awfully scenic." Mao said.
"No, it's downright beautiful…" Kurz muttered.
"Kaname and I have been here before." Sousuke said. "Well, not this specific mountain, but to Hakone. It is a wonderful city."
"So you're familiar with the terrain then." Clouseau asked.
"I am of the terrain we left." Sousuke replied. "This is wholly different. Nothing feels the same. Nothing feels right."
"Yeah, it's an odd feeling isn't." Mao said. "We're here but it doesn't feel quite like we belong."
"I can't say I don't feel the same." Clouseau said. "Alright, let me check on the shore patrol. Urzu–6, report."
"Urzu–6 here." Flash replied. "Nothing to report here. It's quiet here, and there are no contacts at all since you left."
"Alright let me know if anything changes." Clouseau replied.
"Copy that, Urzu–1." Flash replied. "Urzu–6 out."
"Alright, we're going to take the northeast shore of Lake Ashinoko to the city. We're going to head to the eastern most cove of the lake and take the shoreline form there." Clouseau said. "Seems to be the shortest path."
"That's about three kilometers away, sir." Sousuke said. "Shouldn't take too long."
"No, not at all." Clouseau said.
"So why don't we get going?" Kurz said. "It's not like we have a lot of time left before our transport helicopters have to leave."
"Well they aren't our transport helicopters." Mao said. "We can fly out at any time."
"Well then let's stop wasting time jibber jabbering." Clouseau said. "Let's get across to that other mountain. It about a kilometer, then we can stop and assess our surroundings again."
The four of them moved out again, charging down the far side of the mountain into a deep ravine that contained a highway. After getting to the bottom at full speed they ran up the next mountain face as quick as they could until it was an almost vertical climb. Then the climb came to almost a crawl until they were able to clamber up the side and reach another summit where they could overlook their surroundings.
"Alright, we're making good time." Clouseau said. "Once we hit the shoreline, it'll be a straight and quick shot right to that city."
"Uh sir, Al is picking up some faint Lambda Driver signatures up ahead." Sousuke said.
"Where?" Clouseau said.
"One from the top of that mountain near the lake, about three kilometers away, and two more near the southern shore, eight hundred plus meters from here." Sousuke replied. "It appears we have been detected."
"Ok, spread out and take up defensive positions." Clouseau said. "Urzu–3, get a good sniping position. Activate your Fairy's Eyes and see if we can get a solid location on whatever's out there."
"Do we have permission to fire?" Mao asked.
"Only if whatever's out there makes any threatening moves." Clouseau said.
"Understood sir." Mao replied.
"Tuatha De Danaan, this is Urzu–1, do you copy?" Clouseau asked.
"This is the XO, go ahead." Mardukas said.
"We've encountered some massive mechs out here. Not sure we can call them Arm Slaves, but they're something." Clouseau explained. ""
"Hey one of them moved!" Mao shouted.
"Activating Lambda Driver." Sousuke said.
"Laying down covering fire." Mao said.
"Urzu–2, hold your fire!" Clouseau shouted. "XO, prep some V–22s and F–35s for launch, we may need it if we need to retreat!"
–––
Kaji was watching the progress of the Evangelions on the main holographic monitor. He saw Unit–01 and Unit–05 moving together towards the southern edge of Lake Ashinoko while Unit–06 was taking up position on the plateau with the Heavy Buster Rifle. There were four other blips, marked in orange, also on the map making their way to the top of a mountain very near where the trap was laid for them after climbing their way out of a ravine.
"How are those bogies doing?" Kaji asked.
"They're moving right along." Hideki said. "It looks like they have no idea we're tracking them."
"Well whatever camouflage system they use puts out so much EM it couldn't hide from our sensors." Sumire joked.
"It looks like you were right on the money, Colonel." Midori said. "They're taking almost the exact path you predicted."
"I mean from that part of the shore there's only one logical way to move around." Kaji said nonchalantly. "The MAGI came to the same conclusion too."
"So you're as smart as the computer Colonel?" Hideki asked.
"I would hope so." Misato said from above them. "Kaji, what's our status?"
"I'll find out, Misato." Kaji replied. "Alright, so where we're sending everyone for intercept is perfect positioning." Kaji said. "Let's see how they're doing. Hikari, are you in position?"
"Yes, Kaji, I am." Hikari replied. "I'm taking aim at the mountain top you say they're moving towards, but I'm keeping the targeting system off in case they can detect it."
"Good job, Hikari." Kaji said reassuringly. "Just hold your position and you'll be alright. You're a crack shot too, but hopefully it doesn't come to that."
"I hope so too." Hikari replied.
"Mari, how are you doing?" Kaji asked.
"I'm good scruffy." Mari replied. "Weapons are in safe mode, targeting system is on standby, and I'm ready to rain hell."
"Easy tiger." Kaji joked. "No firing unless you're fired upon. Got it?"
"Yes, Colonel Spoilsport." Mari said sarcastically.
"Shinji, how about you?" Kaji asked.
"I'm doing ok, Kaji." Shinji replied. "The A.T. Field Equipment is ready and waiting."
"Well, at least you're prepared." Kaji said.
"All this EVA piloting has taught me is to always be prepared." Shinji joked.
"Well that's good, because the targets are coming right to the intercept point." Kaji said. "Which, where are they now?"
"They just crossed the highway and climbed up the other side as predicted." Hideki said. "Sir, they're scattering, looks like they detected us."
"Well shit." Kaji said. "Alright kids, get ready, they're taking up tactical positions."
"Sir, we're getting a positive wave form analysis!" Sumire said. "It's a Pattern… Teal!?"
"A what?" Kaji asked.
"Confirmed, Pattern Teal." Sumire replied. "Maya set up a program to match to that energy signature from earlier, and that's it, exactly. That's what created the wormhole."
"Alright, here we go." Kaji said.
"Sir, I'm detecting weapons fire." Midori reported.
"Aimed at who?" Kaji asked.
"What the fuck was that?" Mari shouted. "I'm taking fire!"
"Put the city into battle configuration and arm the AIS! Mark the bogies as hostile." Kaji ordered. "All EVAs you are cleared to engage, weapons free."
–––
Mari was crouched down near the edge of Lake Ashinoko. She was listening to Kaji converse with the Command Center crew and then all of a sudden she heard something about a Pattern Teal and then felt gunfire hit her in the chest.
"What the fuck was that?" Mari shouted. "I'm taking fire!"
"Put the city into battle configuration and arm the AIS! Mark the bogies as hostile." Kaji ordered. "All EVAs you are cleared to engage, weapons free."
"Good, I want to shoot at whoever the fuck fired at me!" Mari growled.
Mari popped up, with Unit–05's pink form towering over the surroundings. Mari brought the Quad–Barrel Rail Guns up and took aim at where the fire came from. Mari could see the EM signature the enemy was giving off on her screens. She led the target and let out a few short bursts. "Eat tungsten asshole!" Mari growled. Mari saw a flash in the distance that looked an awful lot like an A.T. Field. "What the fuck?!" Mari fired a few more bursts in anger. "Fuck you!"
"There's another Pattern Teal!" Sumire shouted.
"Just wonderful!" Mari shouted as she deployed her own A.T. Field to full strength, a slight blue glow enveloping her Unit–05. "You're mine, asshole!" Mari armed her missiles and felt a shot hit her shoulder, which she grabbed as it felt like her collarbone had cracked. "How did I get hit? My A.T. Field is deployed!"
"It appears they're trying to counter you're A.T. Field with some kind of dampener!" Hideki reported.
"Motherfucker!" Mari shouted as she found the source of the sniper shot. She activating the tracking system on the missiles and selected twenty–five to fire at each target. She heard a tone sound off as both targets were locked in. "I got a lock on two of these assholes!" Mari pulled the trigger and the missiles are fired at once, streaking off towards their targets. "Yeah, eat some high explosive goodness!" Mari roared as she fired off a few more bursts in their direction.
"Mari, easy on the ammo!" Kaji said.
"No, they shot at me, I shoot the fuck outta them!" Mari shouted. "I have to teach them not to fuck with ME!"
"Mari, relax and focus." Shinji said. "Deploying A.T. Field!"
Mari looked over and saw Unit–01 get enveloped in a blue aura and sent out a shockwave that picked up and threw three of the targets backwards. "Yeah, go get them puppy!"
"Good going, Shinji!" Kaji said. "We're going to want to disable them if at all possible. If not…"
"If I take off all their limbs, I can do that really easily!" Mari shouted as one of them got back up and charged her again, earning a few more bursts from the Rail Guns. "You can't move without limbs."
–––
Kurz was in a daze. He had felt the impact of the missiles the giant pink mech had fired at him with a ton of missiles. His Lambda Driver kicked in and deflected most of the explosive damage but he and his sniper rifle were still thrown some distance away by the blast. He could hear yelling on his radio, but couldn't understand it as he was still coming to. His vision cleared a bit and he could see his cockpit around him.
"What the fuck did I get hit with?" Kurz muttered. "Did I get shot by something that's pink?"
"Urzu–3, do you copy?!" Clouseau said.
"Yeah, I think so." Kurz moaned.
"Status report." Clouseau ordered.
"Well my Arbalest is fine." Kurz said. "I think I'm ok."
"Well get back up, we need heavy cover fire." Clouseau said. "We pissed that pink mech the fuck off."
"So it was pink." Kurz said with note of shock.
"Yeah, there's a purple one too with the most powerful Lambda Driver we've ever seen." Clouseau replied. "It keeps tossing us back with energy fields. And then there's a third one that we can't see."
"Alright, hold on let me get into position." Kurz said. "And get my Lambda Driver back online."
Kurz got his Arbalest back to its feet, and looked around for his nipper rifle, which was a few hundred meters away. He ran to grab it, leaving indents in the soft ground. He moved back into a high position that overlooked where the others were fighting. He could see the two large mechs in the distance. One pink sending bursts of tracer rounds at Mao and Clouseau, and one purple that was enveloped in an eerie blue glow slinging energy blasts at Mao and Sousuke.
"Jesus… this is fucking weird!" Kurz said as he took aim again at the pink one's head. "Alright, this is for knocking me out pinkie!" Kurz lined up his shot and pulled the trigger three times, focusing his Lambda Driver with each shot. Two of the shots were defected by and orange and red octagonal shield of some kind and one hit the armor above the eye. "Nice I got a hit!" Kurz saw the mech's guns take aim at him and he moved as quickly as he could as three burst s of rounds cam streaking at him. "Shit, fuck damn!" Kurz screamed as the place he had been laying prone was blasted apart with exploding shells. "Shit, they're packing high explosive rounds?"
"Yep!" Mao replied. "It's tough to keep dodging these damn things!"
"Well if we don't, those rounds will rip us apart." Sousuke said coolly.
"You got that right." Clouseau's replied. "How much ammo does that thing have?"
"Too much apparently." Kurz said. "I think I'll focus on the purple one though."
"Yeah, do that, it's using its Lambda Drive to knock us around." Mao shouted as the purple mech threw out another shockwave, throwing Mao, Clouseau and Sousuke back several hundred meters.
"Our Fairy's Feathers aren't working." Clouseau groaned. "We need to get in closer to neutralize those Lambda Drivers!"
"Every time we get close that purple one throws us back effortlessly." Sousuke said. "Even I have trouble deflecting the shockwave away."
"Shit, gotta take aim!" Kurz said as he got back in position and aimed at the purple mech's eye. "Firing!" Kurz shouted as he pulled the trigger five times, focusing his Lambda Driver as best he could on each shot. The shots flew towards the purple mech, but were deflected away harmlessly by its powerful Lambda Driver. "Holy shit that should have worked!"
"Try again, Urzu–3!" Clouseau ordered.
"Yeah, right!" Kurz replied. "Reloading!" Kurz tossed his empty magazine aside and loaded another one and took aim again. "Lambda Driver, full power!" Kurz's Arbalest was enveloped in a teal sparkling glow as he pulled the trigger until the magazine was once again empty. Several of the rounds were deflected again but a few made it through, although their course was changed they still did damage, as three jets of what looked like blood poured out from underneath the purple mech's armor.
"What the fuck… is that blood?" Kurz screamed. "Is that fucking thing alive?!"
"I have no idea…" Clouseau stammered.
"Do we keep fighting, Urzu–1?" Sousuke asked.
"For now we don't have a choice." Clouseau said. "I don't think we can outrun these things no matter how hard we tried…"
The mech, or rather more appropriately, the beast's eyes glowed brightly as the blood poured out the wounds Kurz caused, covering its purple armor with deep red stains. It rolled it head around until its jaw broke open and it let out the most disturbing guttural sound one could ever hope not to hear.
"ROOOOAAAAAARRRRRRRRRR!"
"What the fuck?!" Kurz said as a shiver went down his spine. "What are we fighting?"
"I don't know, but whatever it is, it isn't anything we've ever seen before." Mao said quietly. "It's inhuman."
"Are all three of them like this?" Sousuke asked.
"It's a safe assumption, Urzu–4." Clouseau said worriedly.
"Reloading!" Kurz said. "I'll keep the purple one distracted, focus on that pink one guys!"
"Are you sure, Urzu–3?" Clouseau asked.
"Damn sure." Kurz said as he loaded another magazine and maxed out his Lambda Driver. "Firing!" Kurz repeated his previous attack, emptying the magazine in one shot, with only two rounds making through this time, causing two more wounds to open up. This time however, the purple beast's eyes glowed again, but instead of a roar a massive blast wave ripped through the ground and sent Clouseau and Mao flying away into the distance behind Kurz.
"Mao!" Kurz shouted. "You bastard!"
–––
Hikari was high above the battle zone in Unit–06, perched with the Heavy Buster Rifle looking at the fighting down below. Mari kept taking shots at the smaller mechs jumping around and Shinji was doing his best to subdue them with a shockwave but the force of the shockwave was being dissipated by their own A.T. Fields. She adjusted the Heavy Buster Rifle, modeled after Wing Zero's own dual barreled model, though appropriately upsized for an Evangelion's use.
"Kaji, do all those things have A.T. Fields?" Hikari asked.
"Seems like it, they're coming up Pattern Teal, all four of them." Kaji said. "But that red and white one seems to have a more powerful A.T. Field than the others." Kaji paused. "Hikari, have you fired yet?"
"No, which target should I take out?" Hikari asked.
"Take out their sniper, he's firing on Shinji. He's caused puncture damage… nothing serious but… it's a concern." Kaji said. "One good trigger pull should take him out."
"Are you sure?" Hikari asked. "I thought you wanted those mechs disabled?"
"They have A.T. Fields, they should be fine." Kaji said. "But this situation is starting to get out of hand, so if the worst happens… it happens."
"I… I understand." Hikari replied.
Hikari watched as Unit–01 got shot again and then erupted in a blue glow and sent two of the mechs flying off into the distance.
"Wow…" Hikari muttered. "That was really impressive."
"Yeah, but you still need to fire, Hikari." Kaji said. "You're there for long range fire support."
"I know, I just… I don't want to hit Shinji or Mari." Hikari replied.
"Just turn on the targeting equipment and line up the shot." Kaji said. "The sniper isn't moving so he's easy pickings, he'll be tagged in your targeting equipment when you turn it on."
"Alright." Hikari said. "Targeting equipment is online." A half dome structure lowered in front of Hikari, giving her an advanced targeting sight with tracking data. She saw the sniper tagged in red on her screen and adjusted the rife to a dead on shot. "Powering Heavy Buster Rifle, charging to full power. Targeting reticle is aligning." Hikari said as the red circle, diamond, and crosshairs lined up flashing yellow and then aligning as one and turning green while a tone went off in the Entry Plug. "I'm sorry…" Hikari muttered as she pulled the trigger. Two giant yellow beams fired from the weapon, merging into one even larger beam that struck the ground and leveled the area around the impact zone, leaving nothing but a smoking crater behind.
"Target neutralized." Sumire reported.
"I can't believe I killed someone…" Hikari muttered.
"Hikari, it was either them or your friends." Kaji said. "I'm sorry, it's just how these things go, sometimes."
"I know, I just…"Hikari stammered. "I never realized how difficult this all really was…"
"Look I know this isn't easy, but I need to fire on the red and white one now." Kaji said. "That thing opened the wormhole, and if it has that ability, it is potentially just as dangerous as a berserk Unit–01."
"Un… understood." Hikari said nervously as she took aim again. She was the orange and black mech dodging more rounds from Mari as the purple trimmed mech moved to the crater that the sniper had been in. "Oh… I wonder if they were friends…" Hikari murmured as she moved the rifle sight again and found the red and white mech dodging shots from Shinji, firing its weapons back towards Shinji and Mari.
"I have it in sight, but it's moving around a lot, the lock isn't finalizing." Hikari said.
"Alright, just lead the target a bit like in the simulations." Kaji said. "That should compensate for the movement."
"Got it." Hikari said as she translated the rifle slowly to the right as the red and white mech dodged several shots from Shinji. "Target locked on… firing!" Hikari fired a second time, sending another giant yellow beam towards another target, scoring a direct hit. However as the smoke cleared a teal glow was protecting the red and white mech from damage, leaving a pedestal of dirt in the middle of a crater.
"Holy shit…" Kaji muttered.
"Kaji… how did it do that?" Shinji asked.
"Yeah, it should be… gone right?" Mari asked.
"I have no idea…" Kaji said. "Just hold your positions, I'm hoping to send out reinforcements soon."
"How soon?" Hikari asked. "Because I'm in trouble!"
"What?!" Kaji asked.
"One of them is coming straight for me!" Hikari said nervously. "Switching… switching to rapid fire mode."
–––
Mao watched in horror as Kurz's position was vaporized in an instant. As the dust settled as she saw was a crater. "KURZ!" Mao screamed in agony as she ran over to look at the crater. There was nothing left but dirt, no sign of Kurz or his Arbalest at all.
"Kurz… no…" Mao's voice wavered. "You idiot… why didn't you use our Lambda Driver…?"
"Urzu–2, you need to focus!" Clouseau shouted.
"No, I'm going after whoever did this!" Mao screamed as she saw another shot get fired at Sousuke. The shot was deflected around him by his Lambda Driver, vaporizing the ground around him, leaving the Leviathan unharmed.
"Urzu–4 report!" Clouseau shouted.
"I am fine." Sousuke replied as his protective bubble dissipated and he dodged more shots from the pink and purple beasts.
Mao looked around and saw where the sniper shots had come from. "Urzu–2, engaging the enemy!" Mao charged off in the direction of a hidden mech or beast on top of a plateau overlooking the battle sight.
"Urzu–2, no!" Clouseau ordered.
"To hell with that!" Mao shouted "I'm going close quarters!"
Mao charged up to the plateau, dodging rapid fire from the sniper. The shots weren't nearly as powerful, but she wasn't going to let them slow her down. One shot nearly got her and the force of it hitting the ground threw her into the air, but she recovered and kept going, getting into a blind spot due to how high up the sniper was. Mao was able to start to climb the rock face before fire started coming in from the pink beast which made her lose her grip and fall to the ground.
"Damn it to hell!" Mao shouted. "No damage… good. Reengaging!"
"Damn it, Urzu–2, disengage!" Clouseau shouted. "That's an order! You're too damn exposed out there!"
"No, damn it!" Mao growled. "Kurz is going to be avenged!"
As Mao attempted to climb the plateau again, more shots were fired in her direction forcing her to reevaluate her plans. "Fine, I can't go after the one up there, you'll have to do!" Mao turned and instead charged at the pink beast, pulling out her combat knife in the process, dodging the bursts of rounds flying past her AS and bouncing off the field being projected by her Lambda Driver.
"Damn it!" Mao shouted as she lunged at the pink beat. "Stop making this so difficult!" Mao plunged her combat knife into the pink beast and was promptly covered in a rush of blood and violently thrown off by the beast grabbing her Arbalest and throwing it across the field with ease.
"Shit, I need help!" Mao shouted as she hit the ground. It took her a minute to recover and get back up to charge the pink beast again, repeating the same process of stabbing it and getting thrown back. "I'm not stopping till I take you down!" Mao shouted as she charged for a third time.
"Urzu–2, try not to ruin your Arbalest in your blind rage." Clouseau said as Mao was thrown for a third time. "We don't need to lose you too."
"Right now, I don't care, as long as I take that other one with me!" Mao screamed as she charged recklessly for a fourth time. "Someone is going to pay for killing my Kurz!"
–––
Misato was still watching the battle unfold in front her. She saw Hikari being charged by one mech, another mech helping the damaged mech and the red and white mech squaring off against both Shinji and Mari rather effectively. As she was about to ask a question she heard the hatch behind her open.
"Misato, what the fuck is going on?" Asuka asked in huff.
"Good to see you, Asuka." Misato replied.
"There's a battle going on and you don't tell us?" Asuka asked incredulously.
"In our defense, we thought the three of them could handle it." Misato said. "And they are, mostly…"
"Mostly?" Asuka asked. "What the hell kind of answer is that?"
"The only kind you're going to get, Major!" Misato ordered. "Now stow the attitude!"
"Fine, whatever." Asuka said. "When do we launch?"
"What?" Misato asked.
"Things do not appear to be going smoothly, Misato." Rei said calmly. "I assume you prepped our Evangelions to launch as well."
"I…" Misato began.
"Yeah, I did." Kaji said, coming up to the command level. "Sorry, I heard Asuka's delicate voice and decided to come up and check."
"Who's watching things down there?" Fuyutsuki asked.
"Sumire, she can monitor things for ma moment while I update my pilots on the situation, Sub–Commander."
"Fuyutsuki, keep an eye on things down there, please." Misato asked.
"Very well." Fuyutsuki said as he moved to oversee things.
"So… when do we launch boss?" Toji asked.
"As soon as you gear up." Kaji said. "Long story short, there's some interdimensional contacts we're engaged with out there. I can give you a better briefing later."
"So we're facing mechs?" Kensuke asked.
"Yeah, with A.T. Fields." Kaji said.
"WHAT?!" Asuka shouted. "You've got to be shitting me!"
"Nope, it shows up on the wave form analysis as a Pattern Teal." Misato explained.
"Misato, we don't have time for detail." Kaji said. "I want to launch them and hopefully force those things to retreat so we can regroup."
"How is that a plan, Kaji?" Misato asked.
"You had Shinji catch an Angel in Unit–01's hands." Kaji replied. "This… this is tame."
"Why does everyone bring that up?" Misato asked wearily.
"So, can we go get ready now?" Asuka asked.
"Yeah, go, we'll be ready to send you in less than a minute." Kaji said. "Now go."
"Got it." Asuka replied. "All right everyone, let's go be heroes or whatever."
"Are you seriously deploying more assets to deal with three enemies?" Yuki asked.
"Yes." Kaji said.
"I wasn't asking you Colonel, I was asking the Commander." Yuki retorted.
"Yes, I approve of this plan." Misato said. "He's right, it isn't the craziest thing we've gone by a long shot."
"Sub–Commander?" Yuki asked. "Do you have any thoughts?"
"I think it's a wise decision." Fuyutsuki replied. "Like the Commander said, not the craziest thing that's been done to stop an enemy around here."
"Colonel, you better get down here, things are deteriorating." Sumire said. "Mari's taking damage now too."
"What about Hikari?" Kaji asked.
"She's fine, but it's effectively two on three, and Mari's running low on ammo." Sumire replied. "And getting stabbed a lot."
"Alright, tell them help is on the way." Kaji replied.
"It better be, scruffy!" Mari grumbled. "I don't like being STABBED!"
–––
Sousuke watched as Mao was tossed away from the pink beast and saw the blood pour from its wound as well. He dodged yet another shot from the purple beast, moving away just as the energy ball made contact with the ground. Sousuke noticed that plateau and the positions near the lake where he detected the beasts were extremely convenient.
"Urzu–1, I believe we were led into a trap." Sousuke said. "This placement of the enemy units is too convenient, like they were tracking us."
"I don't think you're wrong, Urzu–4." Clouseau replied. "We took the path of least resistance from the coast to get here… and we walked into a trap like some amateur weekend warriors. And we lost Urzu–3 for nothing…"
"You didn't lose me guys…" Kurz said wearily.
"Kurz?" Mao said. "Is that really you?"
"Confirm Urzu–3" Clouseau said.
"Dude, it's me." Kurz replied. "My Arbalest is damaged, a few of the muscle packs are not responding. I need assistance."
"What's your position Urzu–3?" Clouseau asked.
"No idea, I think I'm on the edge of that ravine we climbed up." Kurz replied. "But I can't be sure, my exterior cameras aren't working."
"Can you activate your Lambda Driver?" Sousuke suggested with a grunt as he dodged a close call with another blast. "We can track that."
"Yeah, I can do that." Kurz replied. "It's still active."
"Good thinking, Urzu–4." Clouseau replied. "Urzu–2, cover me while I go and help Urzu–3. Urzu–1, stop holding back and charge those two things."
"Understood." Sousuke replied. "Al, what's our condition?"
"The Leviathan is in good shape." Al replied. "Nothing but light damage from the rocks."
"Alright." Sousuke said. "Hopefully this doesn't cause any damage. Converting Demolition Gun to Gun Howitzer mode."
"Is that wise, Urzu–4?" Clouseau asked. "You're in awfully close for the barrel extension."
"I think the extra firepower will help." Sousuke replied. "Please shut off your Fairy's Feathers. Urzu–2, help me draw their fire."
"I'm already doing that, Urzu–4!" Mao shouted. "Jesus that pink one is… it's out of ammo!"
"How can you tell?" Clouseau asked.
"It's ejecting the extra armor with the weapons!" Mao said. "I'm charging!"
Sousuke watched as Mao charged but as she jumped up to stab, the pink beast jumped as well, catching Mao's Arbalest with its right knee and sending her careening into the ground with a loud crash. The pink beast landed causing the ground to quake slightly and it took off towards Clouseau.
"Urzu–2, respond!" Clouseau said. "Shit, it's more mobile! Urzu–1, the pink one is the new priority target! "
"I already have it in sight." Sousuke said. "Lambda Driver to maximum…" The Leviathan erupted in a teal glow and took carful aim. "Firing!" Sousuke fired two precise shots at the pink beast just as three more shots from the purple beast landed. Thankfully the teal glow of the Lambda Driver protected Sousuke from the impacts. One shot exploded on an orange and red octagonal field and the second made it through and hit the left shoulder blade, causing a huge fountain of blood to shoot out.
"Direct hit on target." Sousuke said.
"Good shot, Urzu–4." Clouseau said. "I think I see Urzu–3's Lambda signature. Urzu–2, do you copy?"
"Yeah… I'm here, I think." Mao replied. "I'm still mobile, but it's gonna be a second."
"Then get yourself up, Urzu–2." Clouseau said. "I found Urzu–3, and I need help moving him, his Arbalest is banged up pretty bad."
"On my way." Mao said.
"Urzu–4, can you hold them off?" Clouseau asked.
"It won't be a problem." Sousuke replied. "How long do you need?"
"Probably 10 minutes, maybe more to get him out of the battle area." Clouseau replied. "Urzu–6, Urzu–9, do you copy?"
"We're here sir." Flash replied.
"Is your position secure?" Clouseau asked.
"Yes, sir it is." Flash replied.
"Alright, get ready to make tracks." Clouseau said. "Urzu–4, status?"
"I'm engaging with the two… things." Sousuke replied as he fired another three rounds at the pink and purple beasts. One of the shots hit the pink one and Sousuke had to now dodge fire from the still hidden sniper on the plateau. "Three on one is difficult, but not impossible. Just don't waste time."
"Alright, Urzu–4." Clouseau replied. "Gebo–2, Gebo–4, this is Urzu–1. Prepare for immediate exfiltration of Urzu–6 and Urzu–9. I'm ordering an immediate retreat. Return to base immediately."
"Understood, Urzu–1." Gebo–2 replied. "We're making tracks."
"Good." Clouseau said.
Sousuke continued listening to the comms as his Demolition Gun ran out of ammo. He had scored two more hits on the pink one and none on the purple one, its Lambda Driver was too strong to penetrate its protective field.
"XO, this is Urzu–1, do you copy?" Clouseau said.
"Go ahead, Urzu–1." Mardukas replied.
"Have you been monitoring the comms?" Clouseau asked.
"Yes, we recalled Urzu–3's flight wing and dispatched Sparrow–1 and Sparrow–2 for Urzu–3 and all of Falcon Squadron to act as cover a few minutes ago." Mardukas explained. "We're about 150 kilometers out, ETA of evacuation forces is less than ten minutes."
"Thank you sir, we'll be ready for them." Clouseau replied. "Urzu–4, status report."
Sousuke charged at the pink beast and rammed it with the leviathan's Lambda Driver reinforced shoulder, making it stagger backwards. He jumped back out of range as it recovered and tried to grab him. He dodged right of a few shots from the sniper right into two shots from the purple beast that sent him reeling backwards.
"Everything is under control." Sousuke said. "Al?"
"Minor damage to the left bicep Sergeant Major. Lambda Driver cooling is nominal, drive is stable." Al reported. "It appears we are in good shape."
"The leviathan is operational." Sousuke said.
"Alright then Urzu–4, you're on rear guard duty covering our evacuation." Clouseau ordered. "Good hunting."
Sousuke looked at his radar and saw Clouseau near Kurz and Mao moving towards them. He saw the sniper take several shots at Mao, which she dodged, but it was time to neutralize her. "Arming grenades." Sousuke said as he launched himself into the air to avoid the attacks from the purple and pink beasts and took aim at the sniper on the plateau, another beast, teal in color, laying prone with a large rifle. "Emptying grenade stores." A dozen AS Grenades rained down on the unsuspecting teal beast going off as they hit the ground leaving a cloud of smoke behind. Sousuke landed the Leviathan on the ground and saw the pink beast charge at him.
"Not again…" Sousuke muttered. "Get away from me!" Sousuke jumped out of the way of the charging beast and landed some distance away from it. He heard his radar beep and saw the dozen F–35s of Falcon Squadron flying in. They let loose their missiles and sent them at all three beasts, they impacted the orange and red octagonal fields but did give Sousuke a much needed distraction to pause. While the purple beast moved to engage the now scattering fighters and the teal beast was without its large weapon, the pink beast refocused its attention on him. "What did Kaname say… clear my mind?" Sousuke muttered as he focused protecting himself the Leviathan was once again enveloped in a teal glow as Sousuke raised his right hand up and sent out a massive focused blast towards the charging pink beast, sending the giant flying backwards towards the lake.
"Wow…" Sousuke said.
"Well done, Sergeant Major." Al said. "Now there only appears to be one enemy left to hold off."
"Urzu–4 this is Urzu–1." Clouseau said. "We're almost out of here. Estimate three minutes until you can retreat."
"Understood, Urzu–1." Sousuke replied as he faced the purple beast head on.
"Good luck Sousuke." Kurz said. "Thanks for saving our hides."
"We're not saved yet." Sousuke said as he saw the jets streak away back towards the coast unharmed, leaving him to face the purple beast head to head. "Deploying Monomolecular Cutters." Sousuke said as he pulled the unfolding blades from the Leviathan's knees and charged, maxing out the output on his Lambda Driver in the process.
–––
Shinji watched in shock as Unit–05 was sent flying backwards by the red and white mech. The teal glow around it dissipated as Unit–05 slammed into the lake sending a large geyser of water into the air.
"WAHHHHHHH!" Mari screamed and then there was nothing but silence.
"MARI!" Shinji screamed.
"Shinji, she's ok! She's just been knocked out." Kaji said. "And so is Hikari, the Buster Rifle's disabled, but she's fine."
"Kaji, I can't fight that thing with this additional stuff on!" Shinji said.
"Then eject it and fight kiddo!" Kaji said. "The other mechs are pulling back so you just have to hold him off for now."
"Got it!" Shinji replied as he found the command to eject the armor. He felt the weight literally fall off his shoulders and the sluggishness of Unit–01 disappeared. Shinji charged forward towards the sole remaining mech, with a long blade in each hand. Shinji deployed his Prog Knives from the shoulder pylons, swinging the left blade outward and low to hit the smaller mech. The smaller mech jumped up and slashed at Unit–01 with its own blades, but Shinji was able to counter with the other Prog Knife in Unit–01's right hand.
"Damn you're good, whoever you are." Shinji grunted through gritted teeth.
"Hold in there Shinji, help is launching in two minutes." Kaji said. "All remaining Evangelions are preparing for launch."
"Alright!" Shinji replied. "Come on, let's go!"
Shinji jumped back putting considerable distance between himself and the red and white mech. Shinji raised both Prog Knives as the mech charged again, as it started to glow teal once again. "Not again!" Shinji moaned as Unit–01 erupted in its own blue glow. Their weapons collided sending out a shockwave that indented the ground beneath them. Shinji held his ground as the shoulder pylons on Unit–01 popped open, revealing the mini railguns, firing several rounds at the otherwise defenseless mech. As the red and white mech moved to try and avoid the copper jacketed tungsten rounds, Shinji took his chance and forced the other mech away, charging after it as it tumbled in the air. The red and white caught itself in midair and charged back, this impact created a larger crater in the ground and forced both of them away from each other, with Unit–01 staggering backwards and the other mech landing awkwardly on the ground.
"Shinji, are you ok?" Kaji asked.
"I think so." Shinji said.
"Sixty seconds on the backup." Kaji said.
"Yeah, baka, help is incoming!" Asuka said.
Shinji saw the other mech get up, it's A.T. Field glowing even more brilliantly. "Alright, one more time then." Shinji said confidently as Unit–01 matched the teal color's intensity with its own brilliant blue aura. Unit–01 and the red and white mech charged each other a third time and as they auras collided, there was a brilliant flash of light that lit up the sky followed by a deafening sound like thunder. Shinji's cockpit feed blanked out from the blast and he felt himself fly backwards and hit the ground hard, skidding slightly.
"We lost visual, Colonel!" Sumire reported.
"Damn it!" Kaji shouted. "Shinji respond!"
"I… I'm ok." Shinji stammered.
"Alright, Evangelion Unit–02, Unit–03, Unit–04, and Unit–07, LAUNCH! NOW!" Kaji ordered. "Shinji, what was that?"
"We collided, I think." Shinji said. "Not our weapons, but our A.T. Fields…"
"Alright, everyone's on their way." Kaji said. "Just sit tight."
"Can you see anything yet?" Shinji asked.
"Not yet." Kaji replied. "What about you?"
"It's starting to clear up." Shinji said as he moved the control yokes to sit up. He could see the Prog Knives still in his hands and saw a shallow, smoldering crater in the distance. "I can't see the enemy though."
"Hang on, sensors are online." Kaji said. "We have him, heading for the highway."
"I'm on my way." Shinji replied as he got up and moved towards the highway that led back the way the other mechs had come up the coast. Shinji got nearer to the position Kaji indicated and saw the red and white mech on the other side of the highway above the ravine. It had attached a flying wing and spotted Unit–01 staring at it. It took off in a hover and began to gain altitude before transition to horizontal flight. Shinji noticed movement behind him and saw Unit–07 followed by Unit–02 approaching him in a steady jog.
"Onii–chan, are you ok?" Rei asked.
"Yeah, I'm ok." Shinji said. "Go check on Mari though, she's in the lake."
"Hey, baka, what are you standing there for?" Asuka asked.
"The enemy is over there." Shinji replied.
"Did you get them?" Kensuke asked.
"No, they got away." Shinji replied as he watched the mech activate it's afterburners and fly off into the distance.
To Be Continued
A/N: I do not own Evangelion or any of the characters, GAINAX and the other distributors of NGE related material do. I am simply using them as a backdrop for my fanfic.
Sync Score Rankings!
Shinji – 155.0% (No Change)
Asuka – 155.0% (No Change)
Mari – 115.0% (+5.0%)
Rei – 110.0% (+3.0%)
Hikari – 81.8% (+12.9%)
Kensuke – 80.1% (+11.9%)
Toji – 58.3% (+0.8%)
And thus the story begins. There's a lot of backstory that I had to work in on a fic I'm planning to write in the future, continuing Full Metal Panic! After the end of its original run. As stated in at the end of the Sigma manga, Amalgam and Mithril, after their final confrontation, both lacked funds to continue their respective fights. However after three years things have been rectified and both organizations are beginning to thrive again which leads to the kidnapping Kaname and her rescue which leads directly into the beginning of this story.
As to the terrain talked about in the chapter, I used Google maps to plot out a course the FMP folks would take from the shoreline to Lake Ashinoko where they engage in battle with the EVAs. Now I don't use the name Evangelion while writing from the FMP perspective and vice versa. It made more sense narratively as they don't know what each other are… at least not yet.
As stated back in Gundam Invasion, the Evangelions are 75 meters tall. Compared to the relatively compact sized Arm Slaves at around 8.5 meters there is a distinct difference in height. So the fighting goes something like it did back in that opener. However with a support ship not far off shore they are able to retreat to the Tuatha De Danaan without too much difficulty.
Also, based on how the Lambda Drivers and A.T. Fields work, I'm working under the assumption that the technologies are not dissimilar. While the Evangelions use naturally occurring A.T. Fields, the Lambda Driver uses and amplifies A.T. Fields in order to make constructs. The Fairy's Feather of FMP also negates these amplifications of the Lambda Driver, but does not fully negate the strength of a naturally occurring A.T. Field, though it does diminish it significantly. The Fairy's Eye also allows the FMP folks to see the EVAs A.T. Fields (identified mistakenly as Lambda Drivers) which is how they realize they're being watched.
As I said before, and will always say at the end of chapter, please leave comments, as I would like to try to improve the story going forward any way I can. And, hell, constructive criticism is a good thing.
つづく
