Pacific Rim: New Generation

by OCMixMaster27

After the Kaiju were defeated, humanity rebuilt itself and began to prosper in the following decades. But when the monsters returned to take over the world, a new generation of pilots rose up to fight them in new, more advanced Jaegers. This is the Second Kaiju War. Initially planned as Naruto crossover, will include other characters. First chapter is prologue.

4. Chapter 3

A.N. Welcome back to the war, everyone! In this chapter, we're about to see some new Jaegers get deployed, and new pilots experience the incredible power of the machines of the Pan Pacific Defense Corps. Enjoy!

Disclaimer: This author does not own any of the properties represented in this story (unfortunately) except for original Jaegers. This work is made for nonprofit entertainment purposes only.

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"Hello there!": Speech.

'What a drag': Thoughts.

A long time ago: Flashback/Jaeger Names

[All Jaegers, check in!]: Intercom Speech

[COMMENCE NEURAL HANDSHAKE.]: Mechanical Speech

{Your English is terrible}: Foreign Speech

ROOOAR!: Monster/Demon Speech

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Let'sgetiton!

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Chapter 3

Deployment

---

Date: Sept. 29, 2085

Location: Mess Hall, Shatterdome 4, Sydney

Eren Jaeger stifles a yawn as he casually picks at his morning meal. His friend, Armin, is right next to him, occasionally checking on the brown-haired young man. The rest of the crowd in the mess hall are much more animated, casually conversing with each other as they enjoy breakfast here in the Shatterdome.

"Geez, you look terrible, Jaeger."

Hearing the comment, Eren looks up and sees Soul with a look of concern on his face, though he tries to hide it with disinterest.

Next to Soul, Maka gives her white-haired Co-Pilot a stern glare for his bluntness. She then turns to Eren with a worried expression.

"Soul's candor aside, you do look a bit under the weather, Eren," Maka says as she and Soul sit down across from Eren with their trays. "Did you not sleep well last night?"

Next to Eren, Armin gives his friend his own look of worry. Armin leans in close to Eren and whispers, "It wasn't one of those…nightmares again, was it?"

"Of course not," Eren defends in a hushed tone. "I haven't had one of those in years." He then turns to Soul and Maka, waving off their concerns. "I'm alright, guys. Seriously. I guess I was just excited about our first Jaeger deployment today."

Soul smirks at this. "You and me, both. Did you see how cool those Jaegers were? Especially the one Spirit hooked me and Maka up with." Soul turns to his Co-Pilot, whose face is overshadowed by her hair. "Say what you want about your old man, he has a cool taste in Jaeger design."

Armin's face lights up with surprise. "Wait a minute! That means Spirit Albarn really is your–"

EEEEEEEERK!

Everyone in the mess hall stops what they're doing and turns to the sound of the creaking noise. Their eyes widen as they see a metal food tray bent inwards slightly in the hands of the rather petite pigtail-haired girl.

Said girl gives Armin the mother of all death glares. "Care to finish that sentence, Mr. Arlert?"

Armin gulps at the challenge. He wisely decides to end the conversation there and focus on his food. The rest of the crowd moves on from the Weird Display of the Day.

Except for one individual, who approaches the group of four from behind Eren.

"Hey, newbie. I hope you plan on fixing that tray."

The four new recruits are startled stiff by the demand, Eren especially. They turn and see Captain Levi giving Maka a serious look.

"O-Of course, Captain Levi! I'll get right on it!" Maka declares, laughing nervously as she works to straighten her tray.

"Just because the world's better off than it was the last Kaiju War doesn't mean we can treat our everyday things like trash. Waste not, want not," Levi reprimands the young woman.

Maka quickly nods in response as the tray straightens out in her hands with another creaking sound.

With that resolved, Levi then turns to the young man right in front of him. "Hey. Jaeger."

Eren quickly rises from his seat and stands at attention. "Y-Yes, sir?!"

Levi grabs Eren's shirt collar and turns the younger pilot around to face him. The fact that Levi is five inches shorter than Eren doesn't make Levi any less intimidating.

"…You look like crap," Levi says bluntly. "This won't impact our test run today, will it?"

"Not at all, Captain!" Eren loudly answers.

Levi's eyes narrow as he stares straight at Eren's face for a few moments.

"Make sure you're not late, rookie," Levi orders as he lets go of Eren and steps back.

Eren quickly nods in response.

Apparently satisfied with the answer, Captain Levi walks away, allowing the group of four newcomers to breathe easier.

"Your new Co-Pilot sure is intense, Eren," Armin says to his friend.

"My condolences, man," Soul adds.

Eren looks at the Captain's retreating form, his mind going back to the first time he met the older Pilot.

Flashback: One Day Earlier

Location: Training Room 1

Eren walked over to the Training Room entrance, eager to meet his Co-Pilot. He had just finished touring the Shatterdome with the other two new Pilots, which was an amazing experience, especially when they saw the Jaegers of Sydney in person. Meeting the Pilots of said Jaegers was also nice, although some of them appeared to be quite unhinged. The Zombie Duo of the Mk. IV Maverick Undead were particularly creepy.

Then, the new Pilots arrived at their Jaegers. Soul and Maka were introduced to theirs, which apparently was a hand-me-down from Maka's father, a fact that made the girl cringe. Soul didn't care about where it came from, just that it looked cool.

As for Eren, he couldn't be happier with his Jaeger, and he couldn't wait to get inside it.

Only one issue, however. Where was his Co-Pilot?

Commander Erwin Smith answered his question by giving him directions to Training Room 1, which brought Eren here.

Eren entered the room and immediately saw Captain Levi hitting a training post with two eskrima sticks. The older man's surprisingly youthful face had no emotion as he focused entirely on his training.

'So fast!' Eren thought to himself as he saw the eskrima sticks appear to blur in the Captain's hands.

Suddenly, the other man stopped his attack on the post.

"Jaeger?" Levi asked out of the blue.

Eren was taken back by the sudden question. "Pardon?"

"You're Eren Jaeger, right?" the other Pilot asked as he approached Eren.

Eren quickly stood at attention. "Y-Yes, sir! You must be Captain Levi! I'm honored to be your Co-Pilot, sir!"

"I'm sure you are," Levi said sarcastically as he approached Eren.

The captain looked up and got right into the rookie's face, causing the rookie to stumble back.

'He's shorter than I thought he'd be,' Eren thought.

"'He's shorter than I thought he'd be,'" Levi parroted, causing Eren to look surprised. "That's what you were just thinking, right?"

"I, uh, I didn't, uh…" Eren stammered.

"Shut up, rookie," Levi ordered. He held up the two eskrima sticks to Eren. "Here."

Eren blinked, took a moment to process the captain's request, then took the sticks.

"Let's get right into the thick of it," Levi said as he headed for the training weapons.

"I've never actually trained with these before," Eren admitted as he entered the sparring ring.

"Figured as much," Levi said as he took two more eskrima sticks. "Freedom Wing has a more unique fighting style compared to other Jaegers. I'm gonna have my work cut out for me when it comes to getting you trained up."

Levi entered the ring and readied himself for a fight. Eren quickly followed suit, though with a less calm demeanor than his opponent.

With an unspoken signal, Eren started the fight, quickly rushing in for a powerful strike. This proved to be a big mistake as in a flash, Eren suddenly found himself thrown in the air and onto the mat in a heap.

Levi calmly rose from his crouched position. "Way too obvious."

Eren grit his teeth and got back onto his feet. He swiped at Levi, who easily backed away from it. Eren then went for a jab, but Levi gracefully spun past it. Levi used the spin to quickly strike Eren twice in the side. Eren then tried for a backhanded strike, which was easily blocked by Levi, who used his other stick to whack Eren twice in his other side. Before Eren could recover, Levi used the same stick to take out one of Eren's legs, causing Eren to stumble to the ground again.

Levi shook his head. "Definitely got my work cut out for me."

Eren growled at these words. He swung his leg to try and take out Levi's legs, but Levi saw the move coming and jumped over it. Eren used the momentum to leap onto his feet. He went for a couple of wild swings, which Levi smoothly dodged. This left Eren wide open, which Levi capitalized on by striking Eren thrice in the chest, gut, and knee. Levi then spun around used his leg to sweep out Eren's feet once again from underneath.

Eren only had a moment to register his position on the ground before an eskrima stick stopped just short of hitting him square on the forehead.

Eren's breaths were heavy and his eyes wide as he stared at the weapon an inch away from his face. After a moment, the weapon was replaced with an offered hand from Levi, which Eren accepted to get up from the ground.

Levi, meanwhile, appeared to have barely broken a sweat.

"So, how did I beat you?" Levi asked his student.

"…You're fast?" Eren responded tentatively as he worked to catch his breath.

"You're slow," Levi refuted evenly. "And clumsy. And full of openings."

Eren sulked at the criticism.

"I take it you're more of a brawler type of fighter. Trying to put as much power in each hit, with no consideration for your defense," Levi continued with a shake of his head. "That style is a sure-fire way for a Kaiju to sink its teeth into your robot, and I refuse to let that happen to mine." Levi then made several motions with one of his eskrima sticks, tapping several points on Eren's body, ending with a tap to the heart. "With Freedom Wing, it's about speed and persistence. We need to make multiple smaller attacks, quickly break down the enemy's stance and chip away at its defenses. Then, when the opportunity presents itself, we make one solid hit to a vital area, and the beast is dead."

Eren eagerly nodded at the lecture. "I can definitely do that, sir!"

"I'll hold you to that, rookie," Levi said to his new partner. "Now then, let's keep going."

That's how the rest of the time was spent before dinner, with Eren slowly but surely learning the Freedom Wing style of monster-fighting.

Flashback End

Eren finds himself smiling at the memory. Levi may be blunt and intense, but he's also an excellent teacher. Eren can see himself going far under the captain's tutelage.

---

Location: Main Hangar Bay

[Pilots of Freedom Wing and Spirit Draco please report to your Jaegers immediately for deployment.]

Heading the command from the intercom, Maka and Soul head for their Jaeger, clad in their black and white Drivesuits, apart from their helmets, which are tucked under their arms. Just before they reach their destination, both of them stop on the catwalk to admire their new machine.

The mech itself is a black-metal color with bone-white highlights. Its body is extremely similar to Striker Eureka, but it has the arms and lower legs of Gipsy Danger. On its chest is an emblem of a crimson dragon, the same color as its vizor. On its back is a large metal pole with a rectangular section at one end.

Soul gives a whistle of appreciation. "I said it once, and I'll say it again; That is one cool Jaeger."

"Of course, she is. I designed her look."

Both of the Pilots look ahead and see a man with long red hair wearing a black suit with a black cross tie and an olive-green shirt leaning on the railing. This is Captain Spirit Albarn, former Pilot of the Mk. IV Spirit Draco.

Both Maka and Soul salute the captain, though their faces are cringing at having to deal with the guy again.

Spirit seems to ignore their expressions as he walks over to the pair, glaring at Soul.

"Let's get one thing straight, here, Evans; that Jaeger over there is my second greatest creation, with the first being my precious daughter, Maka, and you are responsible for the well-being of both of them! If anything were to happen to either of them, then I swear as an officer of the PPDC – no, as their father – I will absolutely destroy you!" Spirit declares as he gets right into Soul's face.

Soul rolls his eyes. "Relax, old timer. I've got it handled."

"And you better not try any funny business with my daughter! You hear me?!" Spirit adds, wagging a finger at the younger man.

"Oh, please. You really think I'd be attracted to a washboard like her?" Soul remarks, pointing his thumb at the now angry pigtailed young lady.

"WHAT?! YOU THINK MY MAKA'S UNATTRACTIVE?! IF YOU WEREN'T HER CO-PILOT, I'D RIP YOUR HEAD OFF RIGHT NOW!" Spirit yells as he grabs Soul's suit and violently shakes the Pilot.

Soul sweatdrops at the redhead's behavior. "You are one creepy guy, you know that?"

Spirit ignores the comment as he lets go of Soul and gives Maka a warm smile. "Maka, Papa loves you very much and is so proud of you."

Maka looks away, annoyed. "The day a Kaiju quotes Shakespeare is the day I recognize you as my dad."

Spirit is stricken by his daughter's harsh words. He huddles into himself on the other side of the catwalk, muttering his daughter's name in sadness.

Maka shakes her head at the sulking man. "Let's just get going, already."

"Right behind you," Soul replies.

They both head into their Jaeger, leaving the depressed Captain alone to wallow.

A distance away, Eren stands on a different catwalk watching the scene unfold with a confused expression. His Drivesuit is dark brown with white highlights.

"If you're done watching the family circus, we have work to do."

Eren turns and sees Levi in the same Pilot suit looking at him with slight annoyance.

"Y-Yes sir!" Eren responds.

Levi walks past him and enters the Jaeger. Eren moves to follow but stops to take one last look at the mech itself.

The Jaeger is dark brown in color with cream-white highlights. It's torso, upper arms, and lower legs are similar to Gipsy Danger, and its upper legs are similar to Striker Eureka. Its lower arms have some resemblance to Striker, but its arm attachments are rectangular in shape instead of triangular. At the bottom part of its torso is a ring-like section wrapping around the body. On its shoulders are symbols of blue and white wings. Its most remarkable feature is its head, which is designed to look like a snarling beast with rows of teeth painted underneath the yellow visor.

Eren finds the design quite fitting. A monster created to fight monsters.

"Hurry up, rookie!" Levi yells from inside the Jaeger.

Eren snaps out of his musing. "Coming!" he yells back as he hurries into the cockpit.

Once all of the Pilots are inside their Jaegers, the ground crew begins rolling the two Jaegers out of the Shatterdome and into the waters of the Pacific.

---

Location: Control Room

Kankuro types furiously on his keyboard, making sure that all of the systems are running smoothly and efficiently. This is especially important today since this will be the first live deployment for three of these Pilots.

Behind him, Commander Erwin observes his chief analyst work.

"Report, Kankuro," Erwin orders.

"The Pilots are locked into their Jaegers as we speak," Kankuro reports.

Erwin nods and grabs the microphone. "Alright, Pilots, you know the drill. No chasing rabbits. No getting lost in your heads. Spirit Draco, we'll start with you two."

---

Location: Spirit Draco

"Understood, Commander," Maka responds as she and Soul are hooked into their harnesses, their helmets secured over their heads. Maka takes the right hemisphere, while Soul takes the left.

[Okay, starting the Neural Handshake now,] Kankuro states from the built-in communicator.

Both Pilots brace themselves for their plunge into The Drift.

The Jaeger AI begins the countdown.

[COMMENCING NEURAL HANDSHAKE IN 3…2…1.]

FWOOM!

Blue light fills the vision of both Pilots as their minds are instantaneously sucked into The Drift. As the connection forms, an assortment of memories begins to blur and intersect with each other.

Young Maka enjoying breakfast with her parents.

Young Soul learning the piano from his mother.

Young Maka watching her parents argue right in front of her.

Young Soul performing with his family in a concert hall.

Young Maka sadly watching her mother leave with a suitcase.

Young Soul performing with his family in a castle.

Both Maka and Soul meeting each other for the first time at the academy.

All of these scenes and more pass through their minds as the connection solidifies.

Eventually, the synching of the minds completes, causing both Maka and Soul to huff with exhaustion.

[NEURAL HANDSHAKE COMPLETE.]

[How are you guys doing?] Kankuro asks the Pilots.

"Alright on my end," Maka answers.

"Cool as can be over here," Soul says.

Maka turns to her Co-Pilot. "Is there anything going on in your head besides being 'cool'?"

"Is there anything going on in your head besides boring books?" Soul fires back.

"Maybe you should try reading sometime," Maka retorts. "Your brain cells would thank you."

[Cut the chatter, you two,] Commander Erwin interjects. [Start your calibrations.]

Maka raises her right hand containing her arm controller. "Right hemisphere calibrated."

Soul raises his left hand containing his arm controller. "Left hemisphere calibrated."

Both Pilots raise their arms and clench their fists. Their Jaeger mimics their motion, like a large, mechanical, utterly destructive puppet.

[How does it feel, being in a real Jaeger?] Kankuro asks the two.

Soul gives his partner a grin. "You wanna say it?"

Maka smirks in response. "Cool."

---

Location: Freedom Wing

[Freedom Wing, you're next.] Erwin says to the other two Pilots.

"Yes, sir!" Eren replies with anticipation, hooked into the right side.

"Let's get it over with." Levi says with much less enthusiasm, hooked into the left side.

[COMMENCING NEURAL HANDSHAKE IN 3…2…1.]

FWOOM!

Eren and Levi commence their own plunge into The Drift. Eren sees his whole life flashing before his eyes. His childhood with his parents. His friendship with Armin. His father dying of cancer. The attack by Colossus on his home. His mother dying in the rubble. His time in the Academy. All of it flows through his mind.

And from Levi, he sees…absolutely nothing.

[NEURAL HANDSHAKE COMPLETE.]

Gasping from the connection process, Eren turns and gives his partner a questioning look.

Levi knows the unspoken question. "When I first Drift with someone new, I carry nothing with me. No memories, no emotions, nothing. Helps to make the initial connection go smoothly. The more we drift together, the more I'll show."

Eren doesn't completely understand but nods anyway.

Levi rolls his eyes. "You still have a lot to learn about being a Pilot, rookie." He lifts up his left arm. "Left hemisphere calibrated."

Eren suddenly remembers where he is and lifts his right arm. "Right hemisphere calibrated."

Both Pilots roll their shoulders and bring their fists into their palms, the Jaeger following their motion perfectly.

[Well, Mr. Jaeger? What do you think?] Kankuro asks the rookie Pilot.

Eren grins. "All I need now is a monster to kill."

---

Location: Control Room

Kankuro chuckles at the rookie's response. "Well, it's too soon for a real Kaiju to come by our shores, but I can hook you guys up with something close." He types on the computer and pulls up a special program. "Initiating Simulation 5."

---

Location: Freedom Wing

The two Pilots watch as a swarm of small drones emerge from a metal pillar nearby and coalesce right in front of them. The drones then emit lights from lenses on their fronts, which combine the create a virtual image.

Eren's eyes widen as a familiar gorilla-esque Kaiju appears to materialize out of thin air.

Levi raises an eyebrow. "Leatherback? Going for a classic, eh?"

[What can I say, I'm feeling pretty nostalgic.] Kankuro replies.

The Leatherback hologram roars at the two Jaegers with surprising realism.

Levi turns to his Co-Pilot. "Alright, rookie. Pay close attention."

Eren is about to ask what Levi means, but he stops when information enters his mind. Eren quickly realizes the information came from Levi through their connection.

"Got it?" Levi asks.

Eren nods in response.

Both Pilots flip some switches on the control panel.

[SWORDS ACTIVATE.] The AI says.

Both Pilots flick their arm controllers. Out of Freedom Wing's arm attachments pop twin Chain Swords similar to Gipsy Danger, but they're shaped like boxcutter knives instead of Medieval blades.

"Follow my lead," Levi commands, feeding his instructions to Eren through The Drift.

"Right!" Eren replies.

Freedom Wing readies its blades as the faux-Leatherback charges right for the Jaeger. Just before the monster reaches the mech, Freedom Wing spins around the Kaiju and uses its right blade to slice into the Kaiju's right leg. The drones' projections simulate the Kaiju's wound fairly accurately, even generating fake blue blood.

Leatherback cries out at the injury, then glares at the Jaeger that made the injury. The beast turns around and swipes at the mech, but Freedom Wing bats the attacking arm away with its left blade, then slices Leatherback's face with its right blade.

---

Location: Spirit Draco

Meanwhile, the Pilots of Spirit Draco watch the mock fight from a safe distance.

"Is that a solid hologram?" Maka asks with intrigue as she sees Freedom Wing make another debilitating cut into the Kaiju's body.

[Yep,] Kankuro answers over the intercom. [Designed by Stark Industries. It's meant to mimic a real Kaiju fight with impeccable detail, even simulating the penetration of the monster's body. Thankfully, it's designed not to damage the Jaegers, making it the ultimate live training tool.]

"That's pretty cool," Soul says, impressed by the technology.

---

Location: Freedom Wing

Back with the fight, Freedom Wing has just made another deep slice into Leatherback's arm, adding yet another crippling injury into the fake beast. The hologram appears to have had enough of the mech as it charges and brings its arm up for an overhead strike, but the mech's Pilots anticipate the attack and bring both of Freedom Wing's up in an X, ready to intercept. Just before the Kaiju's arm can hit the Jaeger, Freedom Wing's blades slice off Leatherback's hand, which is dispersed by the drones' systems as it falls.

"Let's finish this, rookie," Levi says as he sees the faux-Leatherback grabbing its stump in pain.

"With pleasure!" Eren responds with eagerness in his voice.

Before Leatherback can recover, Freedom Wing uses its left blade to make a deep cut into the Kaiju's stomach. Leatherback reflexively holds its stomach, leaving its upper body wide open.

"All yours," Levi offers to his Co-Pilot, who's eyes widen at the opportunity to make the killing blow.

Eren then steels himself and readies his arm's blade.

"For the glory of humanity!" Eren declares as he swings his blade and slices Leatherback's neck wide open, nearly decapitating the Kaiju.

Leatherback appears to try and grab its throat for a moment before it falls onto its back dead. Just before it can hit the water, the hologram disperses in shimmers of light.

[Well done, Freedom Wing,] Commander Erwin congratulates the two Pilots.

Eren beams at the praise, his spirits high after defeating his first (mock) Kaiju. Eren turns to his Co-Pilot to try and revel in the victory a bit but stops when he sees said Co-Pilot giving him a questioning look.

"'For the glory of humanity'?" Levi asks the rookie.

Eren suddenly feels embarrassed. "…Too much?"

Levi smirks. "Not at all. Well done, Jaeger."

Eren is stunned at the Captain using his actual name. He gives a huge smile to his Co-Pilot. "Thank you, Captain!"

---

Location: Spirit Draco

Meanwhile, Maka and Soul take the time to process the mock battle they just witnessed.

"That was some impressive fighting," Maka says.

Soul shrugs. "I suppose so," he says, before smirking. "But we've got an awesome Jaeger of our own, don't we?"

Maka smiles at her Co-Pilot. "Definitely." She looks around the control panel. "Now we just need to figure out how she works."

[NEVER FEAR, MAKA DEAR! PAPA'S HEAR TO HELP!]

Both Pilots recoil at the sudden ear-splitting voice yelling through the intercom.

"Greaaat. What a relief. Mr. Albarn's here," Soul grumbles with no small amount of sarcasm.

[That's 'Captain' to you, punk!] Spirit reprimands over the intercom. His tone becomes much lighter when addressing his daughter. [Don't worry, Maka! Your Papa will help you with everything you need to know about–]

"Captain Albarn," Maka growls through her teeth. "I am in a 250-foot-tall robot, and you are not. Do. Not. Test. Me."

[…ahem…Kankuro…] Spirit mutters quietly over the intercom. The Pilots hear the sound of a microphone being passed.

[Thank you, Captain Albarn.] Kankuro says with a hint of amusement in his voice. [Anyways, Pilots, go ahead and grab the pole on the back.]

Spirit Draco reaches behind and grabs the pole, bringing it forward. The moment both hands grab the pole, an electric current runs from the Jaeger's palms into the pole. This causes a large, curved blade to sprout from the rectangular section of the pole. A thrumming sound emanates from the blade as it begins to glow red-hot.

[VIBRO-SCYTHE ACTIVATED.] The AI says.

"A scythe?" Soul asks with shock, before a sharp-toothed grin forms on his face. "Now that is cool."

[And highly lethal,] Kankuro explains. [Its high-frequency vibrating technology is designed to punch through a Kaiju's body like a hot knife through butter, even the ones with thicker hides and armor. For example, the Kaiju you guys are about to face off with right now,] Kankuro types some commands into the computer. [Initiating Simulation 17.]

The drones move away from Freedom Wing and swarm in front of Spirit Draco. They project a new hologram, this one reminiscent of a crab-like monster from early in the First Kaiju War.

"Onibaba? Why do we get stuck with the Category 2?" Soul complains.

[Because neither of you are veteran Pilots,] Commander Erwin answers evenly. [Now then, get to it.]

"Yes, Commander," Maka replies. "Let's do this, Soul!"

Soul sighs but follows his Co-Pilot's lead as both of them ready their scythe for a fight.

Onibaba gives a warning screech before charging at the Jaeger, its crab legs shuffling quickly underneath it. Unfortunately for the beast, Spirit Draco is much faster as it dashes at the Kaiju, the mech's scythe held high up in the air.

Once it gets close enough, Spirit Draco swings its scythe at the Kaiju's body. Onibaba raises a claw to try and block the blade. This proves to be a mistake as the blade pierces straight through the claw and out the other side.

Onibaba screeches in pain as Spirit Draco rips the scythe out of the monster's ruined claw. Onibaba looks at the gaping hole in its claw, then appears to glare at the Jaeger in front of it. The hologram monster swings its other claw to try and bash the Jaeger, but Spirit Draco uses the scythe's pole to block the claw and push it aside. This gives the Jaeger an opening, which it uses by plunging its scythe into the Kaiju's arm with the ruined claw. This makes the entire left arm of the faux-Onibaba useless.

"Woah! This is an effective weapon!" Maka exclaims with praise in her voice.

[That's just the beginning. Put some distance between you and the Kaiju,] Kankuro commands.

Spirit Draco pulls its scythe out of Onibaba's arm and quickly backs away, leaving the beast alone to try and move its damaged arm.

[Now then, both of you, flip the uppermost switches closest to you,] Kankuro continues.

Maka and Soul flip their switches, causing the blade of the scythe to glow brighter and the thrumming to increase.

[KAIJU HUNTER ENGAGED,] the AI announces.

"Kaiju Hunter?" Maka asks.

[It's a long-range attack from your scythe. It focuses all of the energy powering the weapon into the blade area. Then, the next time you swing it, the built-up energy gets released and slices into whatever you're aiming at,] Kankuro explains. [That being said, you might want to swing it soon, if you don't want the blade to shatter from the energy overload.]

Both Pilots, who were amazed at the attack's description, balk at the last part.

"R-Right!" Maka says. She turns to her Co-Pilot. "Let's do this, Soul!"

"On it!" Soul replies.

Spirit Draco raises its scythe high in the air, aiming the blade at the fake Onibaba, which charges right for the Jaeger in a desperate attack, its claw held up in front for a clamping attack.

With twin yells of exertion, Maka and Soul swing the scythe down hard to the water below. This creates a long, thin arch of energy that heads right for Onibaba. The hologram monster only has a moment to register the incoming attack before the energy slices off Onibaba's good arm right at the shoulder joint. The Kaiju screams in agony as its arm falls to the water and dissipates.

Both Maka and Soul give out shouts of joy and amazement at the attack's effectiveness.

[Well done, Spirit Draco,] Commander Erwin says, [though, next time, try to go for the kill.]

Maka gets a sheepish look on her face, while Soul shrugs nonchalantly.

"Not a problem, Commander," Soul simply says. "We'll just whip up another Kaiju Hunter, and…" Soul trails off as he notices something with the scythe's blade. "…hey, why'd the blade stop glowing?"

[VIBRO-SCYTHE DEACTIVATED.] the AI states as the scythe's blade retracts into the pole.

"Deactivated?" Maka asks.

[Like I said earlier; that attack uses all of the scythe's energy. Afterwards, it deactivates itself until it can recharge back at base,] Kankuro explains.

"Seriously?!" Soul cries out.

[Yeah, so that's what we call a last resort, end-of-the-fight move,] Kankuro finishes.

[Well, with that being said, Freedom Wing, would you care to wrap this up for us?] Erwin asks the other Jaeger.

[With pleasure, Commander,] Captain Levi responds from his Jaeger.

Maka and Soul watch from their Jaeger as Freedom Wing rushes at Onibaba, the Jaeger's blades poised and ready to strike at the defenseless beast. Freedom Wing plunges both blades deep into the Kaiju's body, right where it's vital organs would be. The faux Onibaba gives one last cry of pain before its hologram form dissipates into many shimmers of light, thus ending the simulation.

[Nicely done, you two,] Erwin says to the Pilots of Freedom Wing.

[Thank you, Commander!] Eren eagerly replies.

"How terrific," Soul complains. "We dismember the thing, and those guys get the credit."

[Why are you complaining?] Eren asks his fellow rookie. [You guys are the ones with the awesome finisher move.]

[I don't know. That "Death Spiral" Freedom Wing has is pretty badass,] Kankuro comments.

[…We have a "Death Spiral"?!] Eren cries out with shock.

[Stop yelling, rookie,] Levi grumbles. [I'll teach you that later.]

[We'll have plenty of time to get both Jaegers going at peak performance. For now, let's get you four inside and rested up,] Commander Erwin orders, getting a chorus of "yessirs" from the Pilots.

Soul offers his free fist out to Maka. "Nice job, Maka."

Maka smiles at the gesture and meets his fist with her own. "Thanks, Soul. You were pretty cool yourself."

"Yeah, I know," Soul replies with a smirk.

Maka rolls her eyes. "And so humble as well," she mutters as she and her Co-Pilot walk their new pride and joy into the Shatterdome, their spirits high after a day of successful "fighting".

---

Location: Shatterdome 2, Hong Kong

Farther to the north, the residents of Shatterdome 2 are in the middle of their own Jaeger training. Specifically, they are testing the upgraded version of Saber Athena, a Mk. III Jaeger that recently received a Mk. VI overhaul.

Said Jaeger is currently in the waters of Hong Kong Bay. Its sunset orange body is shorter and less bulky than other Jaegers. This smaller, sleeker design is meant to test whether agility and speed can succeed in killing Kaiju where brute force and bulk have sometimes failed in the past.

To test this, Saber Athena is about to have a spar against another Jaeger, which is currently standing across from Saber Athena. This one has the upper body of Gipsy Danger and the legs of Striker Eureka. Its body is metallic-black in color, with blue highlights. The head's right side and vizor are metallic-black, while the left side is bright orange. On its back is a large broadsword. This is the Mk. III Kaiju Terminator.

Standing in between the two is yet another Jaeger, this one acting as a referee for the spar. This Jaeger is pitch black everywhere, the only exception being on its chest, where a yellow oval holds a black bat symbol. The Jaeger itself has the upper body and upper legs of Striker Eureka, and the lower legs and feet of Gipsy Danger. A noticeable alteration is the head, which is not only more streamlined than Striker Eureka's, but also has two fin-like protrusions coming out the back, similar to bat ears. Another difference involves the arm attachments, which have circular openings in the front. This is the Mk. III Dark Knight.

[Alright, you four, listen up,] Bruce says to the soon-to-be-dueling Pilots. [Commander Prince wants a good, clean spar. No cheap tricks, no blasters–]

[–And no hair-pulling,] Jason jokingly interjects.

[No promises on that last one,] Dick quips from Kaiju Terminator.

[Ditto,] Cassie retorts from Saber Athena.

[That's enough, children,] Diana admonishes with amusement in her voice. [Let's all try to be professional here.]

[Ah, come on, Diana. Don't tell me you're not itching to let loose your fancy new weapon,] Slade asks.

[…Perhaps a bit,] Diana admits.

[Anyways,] Bruce interrupts, [first to four hits wins. Get ready.]

Dark Knight steps away, leaving Saber Athena and Kaiju Terminator to face off against each other. Saber Athena reaches behind and pulls out its new weapons, Ionic Twinblades, which buzz with electricity. In response, Kaiju Terminator draws its Thermal Broadsword, which heats up and glows orange in the Jaeger's hands.

Dark Knight raises an arm up to signal the start of the spar.

[And…fight!] Bruce calls out, swinging his Jaeger's arm down.

The other two Jaegers ready their weapons.

[I hope you brought your A-Game, gentlemen,] Diana says to her opponents.

[Ladies first,] Slade offers.

[How chivalrous,] Diana replies as she and her Co-Pilot make their move.

Saber Athena begins the spar by swinging its blades at its opponent, who blocks the strikes with its broadsword. Saber Athena continues to attack with 1-2 strikes, testing for an opening, while Kaiju Terminator continues to deflect the incoming attacks. Eventually, Saber Athena sees an opening, going for a slash to the face, which is once again blocked. This is a feint, however, which the smaller Jaeger uses to thrust at Kaiju Terminator's chest, stopping short of piercing the reactor core.

[1-0, Saber!] Bruce calls out from Dark Knight.

The other two Jaegers pull back, preparing themselves for another round.

Saber Athena again goes on the offensive, repeating its 1-2 strategy. Kaiju Terminator blocks a few hits, then bats one of Saber Athena's blades away, leaving the smaller Jaeger open for an overhead strike that would have sliced into its neck.

[1-1, Terminator!] Bruce calls out another score change.

Round 3, and this time, Kaiju Terminator is on the offensive, swinging its broadsword at Saber Athena, who ducks, bends, and dodges away from the swings. One sweeping swing is so narrowly missed that it nearly scrapes Saber Athena's chest, but the nimble robot's agility proves to be effective. Kaiju Terminator goes for another overhead strike, but Saber Athena spins around the sword and stops short of slicing into its opponent's midsection.

[2-1, Saber!]

[Come on, boys! Give us a real fight!] Cassie challenges.

[Fine! Don't complain later when we ruin your finish!] Dick fires back.

Round 4, and again, Kaiju Terminator is on the attack, this time with increasing ferocity. This forces Saber Athena to try and block with its smaller Twinblades, which proves somewhat futile against the much larger weapon of its opponent. A particularly strong swing sends the two blades flying out of Saber Athena's hands, leaving the Jaeger defenseless, which Kaiju Terminator capitalized by pointing the tip of its broadsword at the smaller mech's chest.

[2-2, Terminator!]

[What's the matter, ladies? I thought you wanted a real fight?] Slade taunts as he and Dick pull back for the next round.

Saber Athena quickly retrieves its Ionic Twinblades. It then slams the two weapons together, combining them to form a singular Ionic Sword.

Holding the blade in two hands, Saber Athena goes on the offensive, swinging its sword overhead at its opponent, who blocks the attack. The crackling of sparks and the screeching of metal-on-metal can be heard all around as the two swords grind against each other, their wielders fighting for dominance. Eventually, Kaiju Terminator is able to use its superior strength to shove Saber Athena stumbling away. Kaiju Terminator exploits the opening and swings for an overhead strike, but Saber Athena quickly intercepts the attack with its own sword, causing the bigger broadsword to miss its target and plunge into the water.

Then Saber Athena sees its own opening and does a surprising maneuver.

---

Location: Saber Athena

Among the modifications made to the former Mk. III Jaeger was the installation of a more freely operated Conn-Pod system. Previous models of Jaegers had the arms, feet, and spinal portions of the Pilots' Drivesuits connected to the machinery, which severely limited the range of motion of both the Pilots and their Jaegers. The new Mk. VI Jaegers, however, are fitted with a holographic HUD system, and only require minimal connections through the spinal clamps. This allows for a much wider range of motion for the Pilots, meaning their Jaegers have a vast amount of maneuverability.

Such is the case now, as both Diana and Cassie, in their sleeker, more controllable orange Drivesuits, swing their right legs in sync for a kick. Their mech mimics their motion perfectly, sending its leg into the side of Kaiju Terminator, causing the opposing Jaeger to stumble away.

---

Location: Dark Knight

Both Bruce and Jason are left gob-smacked in their pitch black Drivesuits as they process the technique Saber Athena just pulled off.

"Did…did they just…" Jason tries to speak.

Bruce shakes himself out of his shock and calls out the new score. "3-2, Saber!"

---

Location: Kaiju Terminator

"Well, that was unexpected," Dick comments as he and Slade recover from the kick.

Slade composes himself and glares at the opposing mech. "Okay. Now, it's personal."

Round 6, and Saber Athena once again goes on the offensive, wanting to capitalize on their opponent's recovering state. The smaller mech starts swinging with its Ionic Sword, but Kaiju Terminator blocks the strikes with its broadsword. A particularly strong swing knocks Kaiju Terminator off balance, which Saber Athena tries to exploit by sending another kick into the larger Jaeger's side.

But Dick sees the kick coming. He lets go of the broadsword and grabs the incoming leg, stopping the kick in its track. Gravity soon takes over, causing Saber Athena to crash down into the water.

Slade quickly sees the opportunity and points the end of the broadsword at Saber Athena's chest.

[3-3, Terminator!] Bruce calls out over the intercom.

Slade gives his Co-Pilot an impressed look. "Nice catch there."

Dick smiles proudly. "I've always been a fast learner."

Dick releases Saber Athena's leg, allowing the Jaeger to get back on its feet. Both him and Slade back their Jaeger away, letting their opponents gather themselves for the final round.

"What do you say, ladies? One last attack? Winners take all?" Slade asks the opposing Pilots as he and Dick repower their Thermal Broadsword.

[As you wish,] Diana responds from her Jaeger, which readies its Ionic Sword for one last strike.

The battle tested veteran mech and the sleek, shiny newcomer both stare each other down. Kaiju Terminator's weapon glows with heat as seawater quickly evaporates from the blade into small plumes of steam. Saber Athena's sword crackles with energy, which builds up inside the weapon, causing it to shine even brighter.

At an unspoken signal, Kaiju Terminator charges forward, its Pilots roaring with determination. The Pilots of Saber Athena follow suit, shouting a war cry as they rush their Jaeger forward.

Both mechs quickly close the distance between themselves. They swing their swords–

[That's enough.]

–but stop their swings just short of cutting into their opponents.

Both Kaiju Terminator and Saber Athena deactivate their weapons. They and Dark Knight turn their attention to the Shatterdome.

---

Location: Control Room

Standing at the main monitor of the Shatterdome Control Room is a woman who looks similar to Diana, except older and with blond hair. This is Commander Hippolyta Prince, Diana's mother, and the chief authority in the Shanghai Shatterdome.

"I've seen everything I need to see," Hippolyta states into the microphone. "Saber Athena, while your maneuverability is quite impressive, try not to rely on your kicks in the real fight. Remember, you have your blades for a reason. Apart from that, she performed spectacularly. I look forward to seeing her against the Kaiju."

[Thank you, Commander,] Diana says in a highly respectful tone.

"As for you, Kaiju Terminator," Hippolyta continues, "I believe this is a valuable lesson on never underestimating your opponent, no matter their size. That being said, you two adapted well to the situation and were able to score some hits on a newer model of Jaeger. You two are an effective team, and you have one hell of a machine."

[Damn straight…Commander,] Slade replies in a proud tone, which becomes more professional when addressing his superior officer.

Hippolyta shakes her head with a smile at her subordinate's behavior. "Now then, I believe that this concludes this little exercise." She turns to a redhaired young woman sitting in a wheelchair next to her. "Miss Gordon, if you would…"

"Yes, Commander," the redhead responds as she adjusts her glasses.

This is Barbara Gordon, the Chief Analyst of Shatterdome 2.

Barbara quickly types in some commands into the computer as she takes over the microphone. "Alright, Jaegers, come back inside. I'm starting the docking procedure now."

---

Location: Kaiju Terminator

"Copy that, Barb. See you back home," Dick replies, his words shared by the rest of his fellow Pilots.

As Kaiju Terminator lumbers back to the Shatterdome, Slade turns to his partner. "You still have that whiskey? I feel like celebrating a bit tonight."

"Only if you don't kill the whole thing like before," Dick answers with a knowing look.

Slade chuckles. "No guarantees."

"Jerk."

"Whelp."

Both Pilots smile and fist-bump each other, congratulating themselves for another job well done.

---

Location: Training Room 5, Shatterdome 4, Sydney

Eren had just finished lunch an hour ago and is now eagerly sitting in a chair in Training Room 5, while Captain Levi pulls a chalkboard out in front of the younger pilot.

"Alright, rookie, the next Kaiju attack is in three weeks, and we have a 1:8 chance of our sector being called out for duty," Levi explains as he draws on the chalkboard. "That means I have just 21 days to make you an acceptable Pilot for Freedom Wing."

"Does this mean I'm learning the Death Spiral?!" Eren asks excitedly. "I bet it's incredible!"

"You're goddamn right it is," Levi replies with pride.

Levi finishes his drawing and steps to the side, showing Eren his rudimentary picture of Freedom Wing in a T-pose with its blades extended.

"Now then, I'm sure you've noticed this circular modification here," Levi says, pointing at a circular bulging spot on the lower part of the torso.

Eren nods in confirmation.

"That's where the upper part of Freedom Wing partially detaches from the lower part."

Eren's eyes widen at this revelation. "It detaches?!"

"Partially. Just enough for the upper part to turn 360 degrees, except for the head," Levi explains.

A look of shock adorns Eren's face as he slowly realizes what this feature means for the mech. "…You mean…"

Levi nods. "That's right. Not only can it spin 360 degrees, but it can do so at an incredibly high velocity for its size. Add in its swords, and you've got a giant buzzsaw capable of slicing up Kaiju like deli meat."

"Hence the name, Death Spiral!"

"Exactly."

Eren stands up abruptly, his excitement renewed. "Well, what are we waiting for?! Let's go out and try it!"

Levi holds a hand up to halt his overeager Co-Pilot. "Not so fast, rookie. It's not that simple."

Eren looks confused. "What do you mean?"

"When we're doing the Death Spiral, our whole bodies will be performing the spin inside the Conn-Pod, which Freedom Wing will mimic with its upper body. Now, this isn't some quick twirl and be done. Your body will be spinning fast while being stuck in the T-Pose for an extended period of time. You need to get used to holding a stance for an extended period of time while also dealing with the force of spinning in place," Levi explains.

Eren is still somewhat confused but nods anyway. "Okay, so, how am I going to train for that?"

Levi hands Eren a shoebox. "With these."

Eren tentatively takes the shoebox from Levi. The younger Pilot sits down and opens the box to find…

…a pair of ballet shoes.

"Those should be your size," Levi idly comments as he opens his own shoebox.

"…Captain Levi…what am I supposed to do with these?" Eren asks bewildered.

"You wear them, of course," Levi answers matter-of-factly as he puts on his own shoes.

"Wait a minute, am I seriously learning ballet?"

"You're learning how to rapidly spin in place while moving your arms in specific positions. So, yes, ballet."

Eren sighs, but wisely decides not to argue further as he finishes putting on his ballet shoes. He awkwardly walks over and joins Levi on the makeshift dance floor.

"How do they fit?" Levi asks.

"Pretty good, though they're a bit on the stiff side," Eren answers.

Levi shrugs. "You get used to them."

"At least I'm not wearing a leotard," Eren mutters under his breath.

"I hadn't actually considered that, but leotards would be good to help reduce unnecessary drag," Levi says in a serious tone.

Eren gets a horrified look on his face.

Levi stares at Eren's face for a moment, then smirks. "That was a joke."

Eren bowls over and chuckles with relief.

Levi turns to the far wall. "Alexa, play Levi's Training Mix."

Eren stands up with surprise as classical music starts playing throughout the training room. He turns to Levi to ask about the music choice but stops when he sees his Co-Pilot laying facedown on the floor, hips pressed to the ground, and hands close to the shoulders.

"Alright, we'll start off with stretches. This one will be for your hips and stomach, then we'll do the knees and calves," Levi explains as he slowly pushes up from the ground and rotates his hips, the peaceful instrumental music performing in the background.

Eren sweatdrops at the entire scene. 'No amount of Academy training could have prepared me for this.'

---

Location: Main Hangar Bay, Shatterdome 3, Los Angeles

[Pilots of Riptide Maelstrom, Chrome Viper, and Shredder Leviathan please report to your Jaegers immediately for deployment.]

Naruto, clad in his orange and blue Drivesuit, strides towards Riptide Maelstrom, eager for his first deployment ever. He stops and watches from the catwalk as the mechanical crew works diligently on their final checks to make sure that Riptide Maelstrom is 100% ready for its debut launch.

"I still think we need a new color scheme."

Naruto turns towards the voice and sees Korra approach in an identical Drivesuit with an annoyed look on her face.

"Nonsense! She's beautiful!" Naruto proclaims with joy, before motioning to Korra's outfit. "Besides, that suit looks great on you, Korra."

Korra blushes at the compliment. "Well, you don't look bad yourself."

"Of course not. Orange is the color of the gods, after all!" Naruto declares.

Korra chuckles as she joins Naruto on the catwalk. "Of course, it is."

Both of them observe the mechanical crew move off of Riptide Maelstrom, their final checks completed.

"That's our pride and joy right there, Korra," Naruto says as he wipes an imaginary tear, "and we're gonna slay so many monsters with her."

Naruto then notices the look of nervousness on Korra's face.

"What's the matter?"

Korra gives a reassuring smile. "It's nothing."

Naruto gives Korra a knowing look.

Korra sighs. "I might possibly be a bit nervous about us doing a Neural Handshake."

"How come? We haven't had any issues with Drifting since that first exercise in the Academy," Naruto says to his partner.

"That was different," Korra argues. "That was a simulated training exercise. This is the real thing with a real Jaeger. If something were to happen if we're in the Conn-Pod…"

Naruto puts his hand on Korra's shoulder reassuringly. "Korra, it's gonna be okay. Nothing bad is going to happen."

Korra gives Naruto a questioning look. "How come you're not nervous in the slightest, Naruto?"

"Isn't it obvious? It's because I'll have you in the Conn-Pod with me," Naruto replies with a bright smile on his face.

Korra's face goes bright red at the blonde's declaration.

"Ahem."

Naruto and Korra turn and see Ben with his Co-Pilot Anko. The two newcomers are in their silver and green Drivesuits and giving Naruto and Korra amused looks.

"Are we interrupting something?" Ben jokingly asks.

Naruto and Korra quickly separate from each other, both of them experiencing a sudden burst of awkwardness.

"Cheers to the happy couple!" Anko exclaims jovially.

"SHUT UP!/SHUT UP!" Naruto and Korra both shout out, then get even more embarrassed from their synchronized shouts.

"Ah, come on, brats. There's no shame in dating between Pilots," Anko says to the flustered pair.

"Oh, really? Well, when's your guys' wedding?" Naruto fires back.

Anko snorts. "You brats really think I'm the type of woman that wants marriage?"

"I don't know, Anko. I think you'd kill it in a white dress," Ben slyly remarks.

Anko's smile quickly drops. She levels a cold glare at her Co-Pilot.

"Make that kind of joke again, and I'll feed you to my snakes," Anko threatens.

Ben is unfazed as he leans in close to Anko, startling the older woman. "Who says I was joking?"

Those five words cause Anko to make a decent impression of a gaping fish as her face turns beet-red from her blush.

"If you guys are done planning your weddings, let's get this show on the road already!" Suigetsu yells nearby. He and Juugo are clad in blue and purple Drivesuits.

Tic marks form on the foreheads of the other four Pilots.

"I swear I'm gonna strangle that blue-haired bastard," Anko mutters angrily.

"You'll have to get in line," Naruto states with an equal amount of anger.

Korra and Ben nod in agreement.

With that impromptu pact solidified, the four Pilots join their comrades in entering their Jaegers.

---

Location: Riptide Maelstrom

Naruto and Korra are currently getting locked into the Conn-Pod of their Jaeger, which is surprisingly easy due to the state-of-the-art Mk. VI technology.

"This is so amazing! We're actually inside of a Jaeger!" Korra exclaims with joy as she gets fastened into her spinal harness in the left hemisphere.

"Check out the new HUD system," Naruto says as his right hand plays around with the holograms, bringing up the status and weapons systems.

Both of the Pilots hear Anko laugh from the intercom.

[You two sound like kids in a toy store, I swear,] Anko says in amusement.

[Come on, Anko. Don't tell me you aren't excited to try out your shiny new toy?] Ben cheekily asks his partner.

[Are you kidding? Of course I am!] Anko replies. [Maybe not the whole hologram stuff, but it'll be nice to not have to walk around in one of those stiff, clunky, older models. I swear, I'd be aching and cramping somewhere after just 10 minutes in those things.]

[Great! I'll definitely be looking forward to that experience in my stiff, clunky, older model,] Suigetsu sarcastically comments from his own Jaeger.

[Sorry, not sorry!] Anko cries out, before laughing.

[Knock it off, Pilots,] Commander Fury admonishes from the Control Room. [Let's get started.]

---

Location: Control Room

Fury turns from the microphone to the young woman behind the main computer. "Ms. Uzumaki, go ahead and start the procedure."

"Yes, Commander," Karin answers.

The redhead turns to the computer and takes a deep breath in order to calm herself. These Jaegers are about to be launched for the first time ever, by Pilots who have never manned a real Jaeger before, and Karin, who just arrived in the Shatterdome yesterday, is in charge of overseeing all of it.

Karin straightens her glasses, then types in some commands into the computer. "Deploying Jaegers now."

---

Location: Port of Hueneme

The massive side doors of the Shatterdome open, revealing the three newest Jaegers of the Los Angeles Fleet in all of their glory. Ground crews clear the runway, giving the platforms underneath room to slowly slide down towards the water. After a couple of minutes, all three Jaegers have their feet plunged into the water.

---

Location: Riptide Maelstrom

[Alright, Pilots, we'll be starting the Neural Handshakes now. Riptide Maelstrom, you're up first,] Karin says through the intercom.

"Copy that, Karin," Naruto answers as the countdown for the Neural Handshake begins. He turns to his Co-Pilot. "Ready to get inside my head, Korra?"

Korra smirks. "Always."

[COMMENCING NEURAL HANDSHAKE IN 3…2…1…]

FWOOM!

Naruto and Korra's minds dive into The Drift. Blue-tinted memories rush by as the connection is established.

Young Naruto having dinner with his parents.

Young Korra sledding through the snow with her parents.

Young Naruto in a black suit sadly holding the photos of his parents in the rain.

Young Korra throwing another kid to the mat in a child's Judo class.

Young Naruto training with a silver-haired man in a dojo.

Young Korra knocking down her opponent in an octagon ring.

Naruto and Ben meeting Korra at the Academy.

The Three Musketeers toasting their drinks the night before deployment.

Just as soon as the memories rush in, they disappear.

[NEURAL HANDSHAKE COMPLETE.]

Naruto and Korra catch their breaths as the connection solidifies.

Naruto smiles at Korra. "See? Told you there'd be no problem."

Korra chuckles. "I never had any doubt."

Naruto raises his right arm, causing some holograms to appear around his arm. "Right hemisphere calibrated."

Korra follows suit with her left arm. "Left hemisphere calibrated."

The two Pilots raise their fists in front of their face and position their legs into a boxing stance, which is easy to do now that their limbs are more mobile in the new Conn-Pod. Riptide Maelstrom mimics their movement perfectly, resulting in the massive mech making a decent impression of a professional boxer.

[Looking good, Riptide. Connection's at 100% and going strong,] Karin says to the Pilots.

"We definitely feel strong in here," Korra remarks as she and Naruto open and close their fists, feeling at one with the powerful machine.

"I've waited my entire life for this moment, and now that I'm here, it's more incredible than I ever imagined," Naruto says with a tear in his eye.

---

Location: Chrome Viper

"Alright, let's not get too sappy over here," Anko says with annoyance in her voice. She turns to her Co-Pilot on the left side. "You're not gonna give some sappy speech yourself, are you?"

"Well, I have been known to quote Shakespeare," Ben jokes.

Anko gives Ben a cold glare.

"…which I will happily refrain from doing at this time," Ben quickly finishes.

"That's what I thought," warns Anko.

[Alright, Chrome Viper, you're up next,] says Karin as she begins the countdown.

Ben turns to Anko. "Just a heads up, my head is partially filled with the Sumo Slammers TV show, so don't be surprised if you see–"

"Stop talking."

Ben stops his joke at the stern words from Anko. He takes a good look at the older woman and notices the look of apprehension on her face.

But, why would she…?

[COMMENCING NEURAL HANDSHAKE IN 3…2…1…]

FWOOM!

Ben's internal questioning stops as he and Anko take their mental plunge. Both Pilots see their pasts intertwined in The Drift.

Anko as a child learning science from her mentor.

Ben as a kid on a summer road trip with his cousin and grandfather.

Anko as a child watching her mentor be arrested.

Ben as a teenager getting slapped by his soon-to-be ex-girlfriend.

Anko as a child being taken in by a grizzled Jaeger Pilot.

Ben as a teenager arguing with his parents while holding a letter from the PPDC.

Anko as a teenager crying by her guardian's hospital bed.

Ben and Naruto meeting Korra for the first time at the Academy.

Anko taking good care of her snake collection.

The twin trips down Memory Lane end quickly as the connection solidifies.

[NEURAL HANDSHAKE COMPLETE.]

Ben huffs as he catches his breath from the experience. He takes a moment to fully process the memories he just witnessed, especially those of his new partner.

Ben looks at Anko and sees her face turned away from him, her form shaking slightly.

"It's recommended that the more experienced Pilots clear their minds of all memories and emotions when first drifting with a rookie in order to make the first Handshake as smooth as possible," Anko explains evenly. "Me? I'm the type of woman who lays everything out at the start. I want my Co-Pilot to know exactly who they're getting themselves involved with."

Silence fills the Conn-Pod as Ben continues to stare at Anko with an unreadable expression.

"…Well?" Anko asks, her composure and voice cracking slightly. "Anything to say, rookie?!"

"…I say that I severely underestimated how much of a badass you are, Anko Mitarashi."

The honest words from Ben surprise Anko. She turns and sees the young man giving her a smile.

"I know that most people would have become shells of their former selves after going through the things you experienced, but you didn't. You, Anko Mitarashi, are the strongest woman I've ever met in my life, and I consider it an absolute honor to be your Co-Pilot."

Anko is shocked silent from both Ben's words and the feelings of pride, trust, and sincerity emanating from him through the Drift. Ben is honestly proud to be with her.

Anko's eyes soften as a smile forms on her own face. "I thought you said you wouldn't get sappy with me?" she asks with a slight cracking in her voice.

"I said I wouldn't quote Shakespeare, which I won't," Ben replies.

Anko laughs at that, then gives Ben a grateful look. "Thank you."

Ben nods in response.

[Got everything worked out, then?] Fury asks through the intercom, startling both Pilots.

Anko quickly recovers. "Yes, Commander. Starting calibrations now." She raises her right arm, activating the diagnostic holograms for her half of the Jaeger. "Right hemisphere calibrated."

Ben follows suit with his left arm. "Left hemisphere calibrated."

Now fully synced with their Jaeger, Ben and Anko slowly slam their fists into their palms. Chrome Viper mimics the movement, resulting in a loud clang of metal to reverberate across the port.

---

Location: Control Room

"Very nice! Another 100% Connection," Karin says to the two Pilots as she reads off of the computer.

"Two down. One to go," Fury says nearby.

"Alright, Shredder Leviathan, you're the last one," Karin says to the third Jaeger team.

[It's about time!] Suigetsu calls out from his Jaeger.

An irritated look forms on Karin's face as her glasses shine white.

"Quit complaining, you seaweed-brained jerk!" Karin exclaims into the microphone.

[Alright, alright! Sheesh!] Suigetsu yells.

Karin groans with annoyance at the Pilot's behavior. She then freezes as she remembers who's standing right next to her. She slowly turns and sees Commander Fury giving her a look.

Karin nervously laughs and rubs the back of her head. "Um, my apologies for the outburst, Commander Fury."

Fury shrugs. "I didn't hear shit."

Karin wisely decides to move on. "Okay, starting the Neural Handshake now."

Karin and Fury watch as the system starts the Drifting program.

[COMMENCING NEURAL HANDSHAKE IN 3…2…1…]

For Jaeger Pilots, the Neural Handshake feels like an hour, as both Pilots experience a flood of emotions and memories passing through their heads.

[NEURAL HANDSHAKE COMPLETE.]

For those on the outside, it only takes a few seconds.

"Alright, you two, begin your calibra…" Karin trails off as she notices a discrepancy. "Hang on. There's a mental disturbance coming from the left hemisphere."

Suigetsu groans through the intercom. [Dammit. Juugo, snap out of it!]

[…Kill…destroy…]

[JUUGO!]

[H-Huh? What?]

[Focus! It's just a training session!]

[R-Right. Sorry.]

[Honestly, why do I have to be the voice of reason here?] Suigetsu laments. [Right hemisphere calibrated.]

[Left hemisphere calibrated,] says a now stable Juugo.

"Okay, everything's stable now," Karin says as she looks over the duo's diagnostics.

Fury leans into the microphone. "Mr. Bazaka, that little episode better not be a regular thing."

[Yes, Commander,] Juugo replies.

Karin begins typing some commands into the computer. "Okay, Shredder, since you guys were so patient–"

[Hey!] Suigetsu cries out.

"–we'll start your weapons test first. Initiating Simulation 13."

---

Location: Shredder Leviathan

The Stark hologram drones deploy and coalesce in front of the blue Jaeger. The drones emit their holograms, creating a quadrupedal, multicolored Kaiju with two curved horns and a pincer-like tail.

"Meathead? You've gotta be kidding me," Suigetsu complains.

[This is just a weapons test, not a showdown, Mr. Hozuki,] Fury tells his subordinate. [And with that, I turn it over to you, Mr. Stark.]

[Thanks, Fury,] Tony says as he takes over the microphone. [Now then, Pilots, if you'd be so kind as to flip the switches closest to you.]

Suigetsu and Jugo do just that.

[KNUCKLE SMASHERS ACTIVATED.]

Brass-colored spikes sprout out between the knuckles of Shredder's hands and link together with each other, creating a row of spiked armor on each hand.

"Brass knuckles? Awesome!" Suigetsu calls out.

[Brass-colored, technically. They're not as powerful as Cherno's famous fists, but the rockets in your elbows should compensate power-wise,] Tony explains.

"Alright! Let's see what these babies can do!" Suigetsu declares.

Shredder rushes through the water, charging at the Kaiju hologram, which roars defiantly and swings its pincer tail at the robot. Shredder dodges the tail and pulls its left fist back. Immediately, the left elbow rocket ignites and quickly powers itself up to full strength. Enhanced by both the rocket and the spiked knuckles, the mech's left hook flies swiftly into Meathead's face, causing devastating damage to the fake Kaiju's jaw. Meathead's simulation appears to be stunned by the hit, allowing for Shredder to land a powerful right uppercut, sending the kaiju back several feet away.

Shredder goes for another hit with its left arm, but Meathead, having recovered from the one-two combo, responds by having its pincer tail intercept the incoming fist. This results in a tug-of-war between the two giants. Shredder ends the stalemate by slamming its right fist into Meathead's pincer, which disables the pincer, thus releasing the Jaeger.

Its tail now useless, Meathead goes for a ram with its horns, but Shredder intercepts the attack by catching the horns with its hands, causing the Jaeger to be pushed backwards from the force of the charge.

Suigetsu and Jugo both grunt with exertion as they dig their feet into the seabed. With a yell, they use both the momentum of the charge and their elbow rockets to throw aside the Kaiju hologram, which tumbles and splashes away similarly to the real thing.

"I don't think these knuckles of ours are going to cut it, Suigetsu," Jugo tells his partner as they see Meathead trying to stand.

[Ah! Excellent choice of words, Jugo,] Tony says with delight. [I believe you both are familiar with using Chain Swords?]

"That's all I need to hear!" Suigetsu exclaims as he and Jugo flick their arms simultaneously, causing twin Chain Swords to pop out of their Jaeger's arms.

The Meathead hologram, now fully recovered, swings its tail to smack its opponent, but Shredder easily intercepts the attack with its right blade, which slices off the Kaiju's pincer, causing the appendage to fall and dissipate.

Meathead cries out in pain from the lost piece of its tail, then roars and charges in for one last attempt to gore its opponent with its horns.

Shredder sees the attack coming a mile away and pulls its left arm back, the sword's tip pointed right at the incoming Kaiju.

"All yours, big guy," Suigetsu offers.

"With pleasure," Jugo responds with some excitement in his voice.

Shredder charges and stabs its bladed arm forward, the sword's speed enhanced by the elbow rocket behind it. The blade sinks straight into the incoming Kaiju's skull, stopping the charge almost instantly.

Meathead's face twitches for a moment before it dissipates along with the rest of its body, signaling that the fake Kaiju has been defeated.

"Alright! We did it!" Suigetsu shouts in victory.

"That was…invigorating," Jugo declares as he lets out a huff of breath.

[Just wait until the real deal, Mr. Bazaka. We'll see how invigorated you are then,] Fury says through the intercom. [In the meantime, not a bad job, you two.]

---

Location: Chrome Viper

[Now then, Chrome Viper, you're up.]

"Copy that, Commander," Anko responds. She turns to her Co-Pilot. "Try to keep up."

Ben smirks. "Likewise."

[Initiating Simulation 18,] Karin tells the Pilots.

The hologram drones move away from Shredder and swarm in front of Chrome Viper. They use their projections to create a different Kaiju, this one being a bipedal creature with long claws on its hands, a spiked shell on its back, two long horns on its brows, and scores of razor-sharp teeth in its mouth.

"Ah, sweet! Tarrasque!" Ben exclaims.

Ben sees Anko giving him a look.

"…I mean, 'oh no! Tarrasque!'"

The fake Tarrasque roars challengingly at the silver mech.

"So, what have we got in our arsenal, Tony?" Anko asks through the intercom. "Chain Swords? Plasmacasters?"

[Yes on the second one, not so much on the first one,] Tony replies. [Flick your wrists.]

Anko and Ben flick their wrists, causing blades to pop out of Chrome Viper's arms. These aren't Chain Swords, however. Instead, they're similar to Striker Eureka's blades, only more curved and thinner near the point, thus appearing to be more like thrusting weapons than slicing weapons.

Ben appraises the blades. "Impressive," he says with a smile.

Appearing to see its opponent's weapons deployed, the simulated Kaiju lumbers straight for the Jaeger.

"Since you're such a fanboy of this guy, I'm guessing that you must know all of his weak-points," Anko asks.

"Well, he was my favorite Kaiju to fight in the simulations, so, yeah," Ben answers.

Tarrasque closes in on Chrome Viper.

"For starters…" Ben continues.

Tarrasque swipes at Chrome Viper with its claws, which are blocked by Chrome Viper's blade. This leaves Tarrasque's fleshy neck open for Chrome Viper to slash it with the other arm's blade.

"…the non-armored throat is an obvious choice."

The two giants separate from each other as Tarrasque grabs the cut on his throat. The monster roars in rage and swipes madly at Chrome Viper with its claws, which the Jaeger blocks with its blades. After a particularly wide slash, Chrome Viper spins to Tarrasque's side and jabs a blade into the Kaiju's armpit.

"The underarm is also a weak-point, though somewhat underrated," Ben continues his lecture.

Just as Chrome Viper pulls its blade out, Tarrasque swings its horned head right at the mech. Chrome Viper quickly braces itself for the headbutt, which knocks the robot back a good distance away.

Tarrasque roars again and readies itself for a charge.

"Let's see how this baby can really move," Ben says as Chrome Viper beckons the fake Kaiju with its left hand.

Tarrasque takes the bait and rushes straight at the silver Jaeger. Chrome Viper follows suit, running right at the incoming monster, as if it intends to collide with the beast.

"This is absolutely insane!" Anko declares with a smile on her face.

"I know! Awesome, right?!" Ben yells as the two Pilots close in on the Kaiju. "Aim for the knees! NOW!"

In a move that would have been completely impossible in past generations of Jaegers, Anko and Ben, in their free-motion Drivesuits, drop to the Conn-Pod's floor in a sliding motion. Chrome Viper mimics their actions perfectly, its momentum causing it to slide underneath the incoming Kaiju.

Time appears to slow down as Chrome Viper's body narrowly avoids scraping Tarrasque's belly. Inside the Conn-Pod, the holographic image of the Kaiju's body flies above Anko and Ben, the monstrous face appearing to glare right at the Two Pilots.

Just before it slides completely past Tarrasque, Chrome Viper takes its bladed arms and slices into both of the beast's knees, causing said beast to tumble in its charge.

Chrome Viper finishes its slide and quickly turns around just in time to see Tarrasque roll head over tail across the water and land on its side.

---

Location: Riptide Maelstrom

"That was incredible!" Korra exclaims with excitement after seeing her friend pull off an unbelievable maneuver.

"Way to go, Ben!" Naruto cheers on his fellow Musketeer.

Korra suddenly realizes something. "Wait a minute! We can do that too!"

"I know! Now I'm even more excited to test our Jaeger!" Naruto declares.

"ALRIGHT!/ALRIGHT!" both Pilots shout with delight.

---

Location: Shredder Leviathan

Suigetsu and Juugo both stare at the viewing cameras in their older modeled Jaeger.

"…If I wasn't jealous before, I definitely am now," Suigetsu mutters.

"Agreed," Juugo says.

---

Location: Chrome Viper

Anko and Ben right themselves in the Conn-Pod, raising Chrome Viper up to its feet. The two Pilots watch the fake Tarrasque struggle to get up, its efforts futile due to its recent injuries.

"Looks like the poor fellow could use a hand," Ben states with false pity.

"Then let's give him two," Anko offers.

Chrome Viper retracts its blades as its hands transform into Plasmacasters. Anko and Ben point both of its weapons at the thrashing Kaiju.

"Until our next dance, old friend," Ben says to his favorite simulation opponent.

With that, Chrome Viper unleashes its full salvo upon the Kaiju hologram, which only takes four or five hits before it explodes in a shower of pixels, its form dissipating into nothing.

"Anko, I believe this is the start of a beautiful partnership for the three of us," Ben tells his Co-Pilot.

Anko snorts. "Nothing about the three of us is beautiful."

[None of you need to be beautiful. Just lethal,] Fury informs his subordinates.

[Just wait until it uses its Viper Venom. It'll definitely be lethal then,] Tony boasts.

"Viper Venom?" Ben asks in confusion.

[Later,] says Fury.

---

Location: Riptide Maelstrom

[Alright, Riptide Maelstrom, you're the last one up,] says Karin through the intercom.

"We're ready, Karin!" Naruto declares with confidence.

"Give us a good one!" Korra challenges.

[As you wish. Initiating Simulation 4.]

Once more, the hologram drones create a new Kaiju opponent. This one, a monstrous multi-armed behemoth with a bladed snout, is one of the most infamous beasts of the First Kaiju War.

Especially after what it did to the legendary Gipsy Danger.

"Is that…?" Korra asks with trepidation.

Naruto narrows his eyes. "Knifehead."

Knifehead glares back at the next generation of its old nemesis. The faux-Kaiju roars challengingly at the orange mech.

[You asked for it,] Karin tells the Pilots.

"Tony, are our blades like Chrome Viper's?" Naruto asks.

[Actually, you guys get the tried-and-true Chain Swords,] Tony answers.

"Perfect," Naruto says as he turns to his Co-Pilot. "You know what I'm thinking, right?"

"I'm in your head, Naruto. I always know what you're thinking," Korra replies.

Naruto grins. "Then let's go fishing."

(Insert Music: Ramin Djawadi – Gipsy Danger)

Korra flicks her wrist, causing a Chain Sword to sprout out of Riptide Malestrom's left arm.

Knifehead roars again and rushes at Riptide, aiming to skewer the Jaeger with the long blade on its head. Riptide anticipates this move, however, and, like a leaf in the wind, spins out of the way of Knifehead's charge.

Using the momentum of the spin, Riptide stabs deep into Knifehead's right side, the sword digging deep into the Kaiju's body as blue blood appears to ooze out of the hologram's body.

Knifehead throws its right arm back to try and claw at the Jaeger, but Riptide anticipates this move and grabs the offending arm, stopping its movement. A wrestling match occurs, with Riptide holding firmly onto Knifehead's arm, trying to keep itself away from Knifehead's head and claws. The stalemate ends when Riptide pulls its sword out of Knifehead's side and thrusts the weapon into the Kaiju's right bicep.

With Naruto pulling on the limb with all of his strength and Korra's sword tearing through Kaiju flesh, Riptide rips off Knifehead's right arm, causing the monster to cry out in agony.

As Knifehead stumbles away clutching its bleeding stump, Riptide throws away the detached appendage, which dissipates before it can hit the water below.

"Let's make Gipsy proud," Naruto tells his partner.

Riptide's left sword retracts into the mech's arm, leaving the mech with nothing but its fists. This is perfectly acceptable for Riptide's Pilots, who slam their fists into their palms, the massive machine following suit with an audible clang.

Knifehead gathers itself and swipes at Riptide with its remaining arm, but Riptide blocks the swipe with its right arm.

With the beast wide open, Riptide cocks its left fist back, the elbow rocket engaging almost immediately. Korra gives a mighty yell as she and Naruto send Riptide's fist flying into Knifehead's head, the metal hand crashing into the Kaiju's skull with a sickening crunch. Before Knifehead can recover, the other rocket-powered fist smashes into the Kaiju's head, stunning the beast.

Riptide takes advantage of the monster's dazed state and lifts both of its fists high into the air. Naruto and Korra yell as they slam their Jaeger's fists on top of the Kaiju's head.

Knifehead roars and tries to compose itself, but Riptide's fists catch the beast's chin, sending it stumbling away.

"Tony! Back thrusters?!" Naruto hurriedly asks.

[Flick your left wrist up,] Tony answers.

Naruto does so, pulling up a holographic menu of options. Naruto quickly taps the menu and fires up the Jaeger's back thrusters.

Wasting no time at all, Riptide charges at the still stumbling Kaiju, its speed enhanced by the thrusters. Riptide tackles Knifehead away, shoving the beastly hologram through the waters of Hueneme's port. Naruto and Korra yell as they toss Knifehead, causing it to roll away from them.

Knifehead groans from its injuries as Naruto and Korra look on.

"Alright, a couple of minutes with a Plasmacaster should finish it," Naruto says as he goes to activate the weapon.

[Not so fast, Goldylocks!] Tony interrupts. [Look through your menu for the O.R.B.E.]

"The what?" Naruto asks as he looks through the menu. He eventually finds the option for "O.R.B.E." and activates it.

Naruto is startled as Riptide's right hand appears to morph into a standard Plasmacaster with its spinning prongs. The surprise, however, is from the blue ball of energy that materializes in between the spinning prongs.

Naruto and Korra take a moment to stare at the spiraling crackling orb of blue plasma.

"What do I do with this?" Naruto asks Tony.

[Aim for the heart, shove it in, and watch the magic happen,] Tony responds with anticipation in his voice.

Naruto and Korra see Knifehead getting back on its feet and quickly decide to follow the industrialist's advice. Being mindful of the O.R.B.E., Riptide quickly charges right at the beast.

Knifehead sees the incoming robot and rises up to meet its opponent. The beastly hologram roars and swipes desperately at Riptide to stop the raging machine, but Riptide dodges the beast's claws and gets in close to its guard.

"HAAAAGH!" Naruto lets out a war-cry as he slams the O.R.B.E. into Knifehead's chest.

(End Music)

Silence falls over the port as both figures freeze for a moment.

And then…

BOOM! SQUELCH!

Knifehead's back explodes outwards in a shower of simulated blood and guts.

From behind the Kaiju, a gaping hole full of Kaiju organs shredded apart in a spiral pattern.

Knifehead gives one last weak cry of pain before its hologram disperses, leaving Riptide standing motionless, its right arm reaching out.

Both Naruto and Korra are wide-eyed as they slowly turn their heads and look at the now deactivated device situated where Riptide's right hand usually is.

"…Holy shit/Holy shit…," the two Pilots mutter in astonishment.

Clapping can be heard through the intercom.

[Millions of dollars well spent right there. A real work of art, the O.R.B.E.,] Tony praises.

"The O.R.B.E.?" Korra asks.

[It stands for Overpowered Rotating Ball of Energy,] Tony answers. [I also considered Spiraling Orb Bomb, or S.O.B., and even–]

"Rasengan," Naruto interrupts.

[…I beg your pardon?]

"Rasengan," Naruto answers. "It's Japanese for 'spiraling sphere'."

Korra ponders Naruto's choice. "Rasengan. I like that a lot better."

[…Sure. Yeah. Whatever…It's not like I designed and built the damned thing…Everybody's a critic.]

[Mr. Stark's pride aside,] Fury interjects, [nice work, the two of you.]

[Alright, that about wraps it up for today, Pilots. Go on and bring your Jaegers back inside,] Karin tells the six Pilots.

"Copy that, Karin," Naruto replies.

Naruto and Korra turn to each other and take the time to process what just occurred. Not only did they successfully defeat a Kaiju (hologram), but they did so in the most explosive manner possible against the archnemesis of the iconic Gipsy Danger.

So, in their minds, it is perfectly natural for the two of them to have shit-eating grins on their faces as they dance around their Conn-Pod in victory.

Of course, this causes Riptide to mimic their movements, pumping its fists in the air as it dances in the waters of Port Hueneme.

---

Location: Control Room

Fury, Karin, and Tony have sweat-drops on their heads as they watch the orange dancing robot on screen. Karin, in particular, is especially embarrassed, as shown by her trembling form and her pained expression.

Karin eventually can't take it anymore and grabs the microphone.

"Riptide! Stop your dancing and get your asses back into the Shatterdome!" Karin loudly orders, a white shine overtaking her glasses.

On screen, the orange robot stops dancing as Naruto replies, [Aw, come on, Karin. Let us celebrate a bit here.]

"If you guys want to embarrass yourselves, and me, you can do it away from the public eye. Now get to it!"

Naruto groans through the intercom. [Alright, alright, we're going.]

Karin sighs in frustration at her friends' antics. She then hears smothered snickering next to her. She slowly turns and sees Fury once again giving her a look, while Tony stands behind the Commander, trying to hold in his laughter.

Karin chuckles sheepishly at Fury's look.

Fury nods at the redhead. "Well done today, Ms. Uzumaki. Keep up the good work," he says evenly, before walking away.

Tony gives Karin a smile. "You just got the Fury Seal of Approval. Nicely done," Tony says as he offers his hand to Karin.

Karin smiles brightly as she shakes Tony's hand, her future in the Los Angeles Shatterdome secured.

---

Location: Main Hangar Bay, Shatterdome 3, Los Angeles

Ben takes off his helmet and breathes in fresh air as he exits Chrome Viper's Conn-Pod. Still on a bit of a high from Piloting a real Jaeger for the first time, he waits a moment to allow the last bit of adrenaline to leave his body. He looks back at the silver mech, which is completely swarmed by mechanics checking over the massive machine.

"Hey, partner!"

Ben turns to address the voice, only to find Anko's arm wrapped loosely around his shoulders.

"Nice moves out there, rookie," Anko tells the young man with a smile on her face.

"Technically, both of us made those moves," Ben replies.

Anko pulls Ben in closer and says, "Come on, Tennyson, take a compliment, will you?"

Ben chuckles. "Alright, alright. Thanks, Anko."

Anko releases Ben as both Pilots walk across the catwalk away from their Jaeger.

"…Thank you, Anko."

Anko looks at her Co-Pilot in confusion. "For what?"

"For trusting me," Ben replies. "With your past. With everything."

Anko whacks the back of Ben's head. "I told you not to get sappy with me."

Ben pouts as he rubs the back of his head.

Anko looks away tentatively. "…But you're welcome."

Ben gives a surprised look at his Co-Pilot, then smiles.

"BEN!"

Ben and Anko both turn and see Naruto and Korra running towards them as fast as they can in their Drivesuits.

"Nice moves out there," Korra tells Ben as she and Naruto embrace their friend.

"You guys were impressive too," Ben replies. "Gipsy Danger would be proud of you two."

"You mean 'us four'," Naruto corrects with a smile. He holds his fist up triumphantly. "The Kaiju won't know what hit them."

Anko sees the three newcomers celebrating with each other and decides to leave them to their celebrations. She turns around and starts walking away.

"Anko! Where are you going?"

Anko hears Ben's voice and turns to see him and his friends giving her expecting looks.

Anko raises her hands and responds, "You brats have your own thing going on, so I'm just gonna leave you guys–HEY!"

Anko's exclamation is due to Ben pulling her back into the group.

"Not so fast there!" Ben interjects. "I'm not planning on celebrating without my Co-Pilot. You're part of the group now!"

"H-Hold on a minute!" Anko stutters, waving her hands in front of herself. "I'm not a 'group' kind of woman! You guys have the whole 'Three Musketeers' thing going on! I'd just–"

"Actually, it's the 'Four Musketeers' now," Naruto interrupts, a knowing smile on his and his fellow newcomers' faces.

Anko's eyes widen in horror. "Oh no. No, no, no! That is not a thing! That is not a thing!"

Ben claps Anko's shoulders from behind. "Hate to break it to you, Anko, but it's already a thing."

"You're one of us now," Korra declares. "You've gotta deal with it."

"Now that that's settled, it's off to the Mess Hall, dattebayo!" Naruto proclaims as he and Korra grab Anko's arms and drag her away, with Ben pushing on the older Pilot's shoulders.

"Hey! Cut it out, you little shits! I'm not a Musketeer! I'M NOT A MUSKETEER!" Anko yells as she struggles in vain to escape her fellow Musketeers.

A distance away, Captain Steve Rogers watches the newly minted group of four head out of the Main Hangar towards the Mess Hall.

"They're pretty good for newbies, am I right, Cap?"

Steve turns and sees his friend Tony approaching with two drinks in his hands.

Steve gives a nod to the industrialist. "Strong pedigrees, natural talent, and a hell of a lot of courage. We have a good batch of Pilots this time…" Steve looks away as he trails off.

Tony sees Steve's faraway look and rolls his eyes.

"Buuut?" Tony asks in a knowing tone.

Steve sighs. "We've been down this road before. Good Pilots with strong Jaegers. The Pyms. The Beifongs. The Storms. Look what happened to them."

"You're thinking these guys will join the list too?" Tony asks. "Have a little faith, my friend."

"I do, Tony. I do," Steve assures Tony. "…I'm just tired of seeing that list grow."

Tony sighs and walks over to Steve's side.

"Look, I'm not going to give some cheerful heroic speech about how we're gonna blow the Kaiju bastards to kingdom come and save humanity, alright? That's your thing, not mine," Tony says as Steve chuckles. "The only thing I can do – the only thing 'we' can do – is just take things one month at a time, you know? We go out there, we save the world, we keep the youngins safe, and we pray to whoever's watching that they make it to the end. That's all we can do."

Steve turns to Tony and asks, "You think there is an end?"

"Well, from what I overheard from some superiors about 'Operation: Endgame', I'd say that we're definitely getting close to it," Tony answers hopefully.

Steve smiles at this. "Well, that's certainly worth drinking to."

Tony returns the smile. "Figured you'd say that," he says as he offers one of the drinks in his hands.

Steve accepts the drink and holds it up for a toast. "To the Endgame."

Tony holds up his own drink. "To the Endgame."

The two veterans clink their drinks together, toasting to a happy ending for themselves, their allies, and all of humanity.

---

End Chapter

A.N.: Holy cow! I had major writer's block with this one! I hope I did the battle scenes justice for everyone.

Anyways, the hologram Kaiju concept is based off of the hologram system used by Mysterio in Spiderman: Far From Home. I figured that in this universe, Stark Industries would use the semi-realistic illusion system as a Jaeger training tool. That way, Pilots can actually use their Jaegers in their training instead of relying solely on simulations.

Next time, the Shatterdome residents take time to get to know one another better during the lull time between deployments. There'll also be quite a bit of humor and drama mixed in as well, so look forward to that. Also, we'll find out more about "Operation: Endgame".

Now, normally, I'd tell you guys what I'm planning on updating next in a scheduled manner. However, during the process of writing this chapter, I noticed that I pretty much had chapters for my other stories written out in my head in the meantime. It's a bit hard to explain, but the point is, from this moment on, I'm just going to let my inner writing process determine the next update, and see if that works out better.

That being said, the next update will arrive at a much faster pace.

Until next time!

Dropareviewifyoucanflamerswillbeignored.