Disclaimer: I do not own Evangelion or anything associated with it. I have written this story solely because I enjoy writing.

Disclaimer: I do not own anything belonging to Marvel Comics or anything associated with it. I have written this story solely because I enjoy writing.

Superwomen of Eva: Emerald Fury

Chapter 20: Hidden Desires, Secret Fears

As Misato sat within her gilded cage in the heart of NERV, she couldn't help but think back to those three long years when she had been rendered into a waking coma. When she had been reduced to a shattered wreck of a girl who did nothing but stare into empty space, never speaking and barely even moving. Her mind effectively destroyed, one of the prices she had paid for surviving Second Impact. And she often felt tormented by her past, all of the hatred and anger and pain that resulted from what she had suffered and her father's final sacrifice. But even so, she had never once stopped to wonder what she must have looked like as that dismal, broken child.

Now, Misato suspected that she no longer had to imagine. For seated opposite of the purple-haired woman was a tattered, broken wreck of a human being. She was completely silent with her eyes lowered to the floor, eyes that were red from crying out every last tear she had in her. Tears that had left her features splotched, while the shame, grief, and misery she felt stained her even more.

Maya... Misato thought as she continued to study the younger woman. Someone who had apparently been freed from the control of the latest Angel...but whose hands remained stained with blood.

Blood spilled by the Angel that had infested her body and had once stolen her mind from her.

Another victim of the children of Adam. Another victim of the mindless abominations that had similarly destroyed Misato once so many years ago.

Angels...! Misato thought, allowing the anger she felt towards those monstrosities to burn for a brief moment. Just long enough to clench her hands into fists. Just long enough to feel her monstrous other snarl in fury and wish vengeance upon those living abominations that deserved nothing but slow, painful deaths.

And then she took a deep breath and allowed her anger to fade. For as much as Misato hated the Angels and wished them all death, there were no Angels for her to vent her rage upon now. All that was left was the aftermath. The pain, the horror. The death and the dead. And a broken soul that was in dire need of someone to support her in any way possible.

But...how...? Misato even as she continued to sit in her enclosure. She had specifically requested the chance to speak to Maya, to try and help her overcome what she had been through, but now that the two of them were face to face, her mind was a complete blank. I...dammit, I know that this won't be simple! I've been there, both with Second Impact and what happened when I first started changing! So how do I -?!

But even as she thought these things, Misato realized that she already knew the answer. And so, with a heart filled with sorrow for the latest victim of the Angels, she sighed and carefully began.

"It's pretty damned easy, isn't it?" Misato wondered in a nonchalant manner that she had gotten very good at faking. When Maya started at the sound of the Major's voice, Misato gave a sad smile and added, "Blaming yourself. Asking yourself what you could have done differently. Telling yourself that it's all your fault that this or that happened." Giving a half-hearted snort, she added, "Believe me, I've been doing that a lot myself these days. Especially after..."

Despite herself, Misato couldn't help but shudder as she thought of the now-infamous Day of Destruction. Of the sheer chaos and destruction that She-Hulk has caused since she had first torn free of the broken woman's psyche and body. But after she fought off of the momentary distraction such thoughts caused her, she realized that Maya was now paying attention to her. And with that, she immediately shifted gears and focused entirely on Maya. "Now - I get it. That damned Angel infected you, took you over, and made you its puppet. It used you to do whatever it wanted. And you hate it. You hate yourself for not being able to stop it. Believe me, I know how that feels. Hell, I did a lot of that myself."

At this, Misato paused to give Maya some silence. A moment to think over her words, to say something in response. Something.

What the younger woman did was sniffle and issue a choked sob.

Feeling her heart clench, Misato sighed and pressed forward. "I wanted to die after I found out what I had become, Maya. I begged Ritsuko, Fuyutsuki...everyone to put me down! To kill me before I had a chance to turn big and green again. So you better believe I know how it feels to be where you are now." Pausing to heave a deep breath, the purple-haired woman leaned in closer to the brunette. "But now...now I know something else. Now I know how it must've felt...for everyone around me when I was begging them for death."

This time, Maya gave Misato a puzzled look. Something she pounced.

"Do you honestly think I'm enjoying this? That I asked to have you brought down here so I can sit here and watch you suffer?" Misato wondered. "No! I asked for you to come down here so I could talk to you! To do whatever I could to help you!"

Blinking a few times at this, Maya heaved a heavy sigh. "I - I realize that, Major. But...I just..." Screwing up her face as fresh tears emerged from her eyes, she swallowed loudly before continuing. "I...I killed those people! They - all that blood! I can still see, smell it! I -!"

"I know! But you weren't the one who spilled it!" Misato declared in a voice rife with authority. "Yes, those people are dead, Maya! I know that! And God knows that I've seen plenty of death in my life! But I -!" Cutting herself off, the Major suddenly had an idea. "Do you blame me for what She-Hulk did? For all of the chaos she's caused? The destruction?" Maya blinked a few times at this, then gave a soft shake of her head. "Then why the hell do you think that you're to blame for what happened when that thing took you over?!"

This definitely caught Maya's attention. "I...well..."

"If anything, you're even less to blame for everything than I am!" Misato declared. "As near as I can, whatever it is that passes for She-Hulk's mind came from right here!" Pausing to point at her own head, she then scowled and added, "You had an Angel slip inside of you and do...whatever it did! How are you to blame for that?!"

Jumping back a bit in her seat, Maya visibly considered this for a time. Her tortured visage shifted mercurially as she visibly considered what was being said. "I...I know a-all that, Major..." she finally got out. "But...even so...to know that - what that thing made me did -"

"It's hard. I know that. Believe me, I know how it feels to be powerless. To have all of this happen and not be able to do a damned thing to do about it!" Misato heatedly declared. "So trust me when I say that doing what you're doing isn't going to do a damned thing to help! It's not going to bring those people back! It's not going to help you or anyone else! The only thing you'll be accomplishing is hurting yourself!" Pausing to heave a deep breath, she then gave the brunette a sad, weary smile. "And all of your friends here who only want to help you."

"She's right, Maya." Starting at the sound of this voice, Misato looked about to see Ritsuko standing a short distance behind her. Having almost forgotten that the Head Scientist was even there in her home at NERV, the purple-haired woman watched as her best friend from college took a few steps closer to her former assistant. "I know this can't be easy for you. Any more than what happened to Misato was easy for her. But it's over. What happened. Is over. And now...it's time to move on."

Looking uncertainly at Ritsuko, Maya almost smiled. But then she frowned and glanced absently about. As if she was once more seeing all of the dead that had resulted of her Angelic infection. "But...sempai..."

"It's not gonna be easy, Maya. We get that," Misato assured her, thinking of the three years she had spent putting her own mind back together. All of the horror and pain and guilt that still resided within her, even to that day. "Any more than it was easy for me to accept big, green, and destructive. But you can do it! And you will!"

"Especially if you let us," Ritsuko chimed in. "And besides, we've already managed to neutralize the nanites in your system. So you don't have to worry about this ever happening again." Moving closer, the faux-blonde placed a caring hand on Maya's shoulder. "It's over, Maya. You don't have to worry about your...Ms. Hyde coming out ever again."

I sure hope you're right about that, Rits, Misato couldn't help but think. Because I've got a nasty feeling in the pit of my stomach that says it might not be that simple!

As Misato hoped against hope that her digestive tract wasn't as smart as Ritsuko, a heavy creaking sound was heard. Starting somewhat, she turned and realized that the door to her enclosure was opening. And on the other side of it was Fuyutsuki, along with several Section 2 people. "My apologies, everyone," the aged professor smiled pleasantly, giving them all a polite bow of his head. "But...well, I'm afraid that we have to go."

Surprised and annoyed, Misato stood and gave Fuyutsuki an imploring look. "Commander, Maya only just got here - what, a few minutes ago?"

"Almost half an hour, actually," Fuyutsuki somberly corrected her. "And I'm sorry, Major. I was just contacted by Ikari. He made it very clear that he wants to speak with Captain Ibuki. Immediately."

Misato opened her mouth to protest, but before she could, Maya gave a choked sigh. "I - i-it's alright, Major. I..." she started, only to cut herself off even as she forced herself up to her feet. "I - Commander's order, right?"

"Unfortunately," Fuyutsuki somberly nodded. "I do wish that I had the luxury of letting you talk some more, but..."

"I - I understand," Maya assured them, punctuating her words with a sniff.

"C'mon," Ritsuko murmured in a kindly fashion that seemed out of place for the stern scientist. "Let me help you."

"Th-thanks, sempai," Maya shakily replied, giving Ritsuko a smile that didn't even touch her lips. Sniffling somewhat even as fresh tears appeared on her face, the brunette shakily moved forward. Pausing just long enough to look at Misato and add, "And - thank y-you as well, Major..."

Misato was tempted to make a joke about how at least Maya didn't have to move in with her. To smile in a devil-may-care fashion and urge her to stop crying already.

But what she actually did was, "You take care, Maya. And if you ever need to talk about anything, well...you know where to find me."

Giving another pained sniff, Maya nodded. Then she allowed herself to be escorted towards the door by Ritsuko.

"Oh, wait," Ritsuko paused right before she and Maya reached the door. Glancing back at Misato, she said, "Listen, I'm sorry to bring this up. But...I'll be back down here later. I need to get a few more blood samples."

Wha-?! She's talking shop now of all times?! And hasn't she already collected enough blood from me to start her own blood bank?! was what Misato thought.

What she said after a few minutes consternation was, "Alright. Fine. Just...take care of Maya, okay?"

"Of course," Ritsuko nodded before continuing forward with the broken woman. Leaving Misato alone once more.

As the door to her enclosure ground shut once, Misato heaved a tired, empty sigh. "Damned war...damned Angels...!" she growled in her throat even as she sat down, suddenly very tired. "Even when we win...we still lose! People dead, homes destroyed...and worse. We still lose..."

At these words, Misato heard an ominous growl sound in the background. A growl of disgust and agreement.

"Maya, the children...Shinji. They shouldn't be fighting this war. They shouldn't have to live with...all of this," Misato continued, anger and frustration creeping into her words. "All because the Evas won't work for anyone who was born before Second Impact..."

There was another growl of agreement. And after several seconds, Misato scowled. Her emotional exhaustion momentarily forgotten, she rose up to her feet and started to the bathroom. And once there, she looked at herself in the mirror.

At herself...and something else entirely. The beast that lay within her, heard her every word.

"You need to shape up, Greenie," Misato declared, scowling fiercely at the tiny spark of green she saw in her eyes. "You have all the power we could ever ask for. Enough power to rip those damned monsters apart, all by yourself! But in case you didn't notice, you have the brain the capacity of a jackhammer! And that's something that won't fly on the battlefield!" When a snarl and a sneer were seen and heard from the mirror, the purple-haired woman leaned in closer. "You and I both know what happened during that fiasco with Maya and that last Angel! When I was calling the shots, we actually managed to capture Maya! And if things hadn't gone to hell, we might have been able to hold her until Ritsuko could treat her! All without those people getting killed! Or Shinji being in danger! But the instant you took over, everything went straight to hell! Maya almost died because you were so out of control!"

The creature scowled fiercely at this. But it's simple mind was unable to avoid admitting that Misato had a point. Which led to her leaning in closer and declaring, "Which is why it's long since past time we came to an understanding. And long since past time you figured out that while I need all that big, green muscle you're packing...you need my brain just as badly!" When the creature failed to respond to this, Misato scowled and concluded, "And while you might not like it and I'm sure as hell am not thrilled about it...we are gonna find some way for us to work together! Because if we don't...we're an even bigger danger to them than the Angels!"


Is it true...? Maya wondered as she was led through the labyrinthine hallways of NERV. Flanked on both sides by Section 2 men, each of them armed to the teeth and shooting deadly glares at her. Am I really cured? Am I...no longer a danger...?

Maya wanted to believe it. She wanted to believe that the nightmare was over. That there was no chance of her ever again becoming that energy-absorbing monstrosity.

But she couldn't.

Maya could see the way that the Section 2 people were looking at her. With a heavy anger mixed with a dash of fear. She could see the way they were holding their weapons, the tension on the triggers. They were angry about what had been done to their fellows. They were afraid that Maya might transform once more and do to them what she had done to their fellows. And their hatred and fear only served to fuel her own self-loathing and dread.

That Angel...it's still inside of me! Maya thought, unable to restrain a shudder. Who knows what it might do to me next? Or if it might turn me into that...that freak again?!

As Maya contemplated that possibility, the prospect of again being rendered a murderous beast, she felt more and more of her heart shrivel up and die. And as she walked along, looking at the Section 2 people and their weapons, there was a part of her that wanted to fall to her knees and beg them to kill what was left of her.

Maya did no such thing, however. She just continued to walk along in silence, with Ritsuko and Fuyutsuki offering silent support. Trailing a cloud of gloom and misery as she was led to the bridge.

"Say...Maya?" came a voice from off to the side. Starting at it, the brunette looked about and saw Makoto standing nearby. At his side was Shigeru, and not far away from him was Chihiro. And in the distance were all of the other workers and staff members that Maya knew from there. "We...just wanted to say that...well..."

"We're sorry about...well, you know," Shigeru concluded for his bespectacled compatriot.

"So am I," Chihiro added, her expression grim. "In fact - if it weren't for me, this might not have happened!"

Starting somewhat at this, Maya focused on her successor. "But - how can you say that?"

"Because it's true!" Chihiro insisted. "The whole reason you weren't able to reprogram the MAGI fast enough is because of me setting up the EMP! If you had just focused on -!"

"Lieutenant Mifune, please. Now is not the time for recriminations," Fuyutsuki told her in a stern yet caring manner. "Hindsight is always twenty-twenty, but that is especially true in war. There's no way for us to know how things would have gone if we had done any differently. It might have been better. Or it might have been even worse. There's just no way for us to know." Then he turned his gaze towards Maya and added, "All we can do is be grateful that we survived as well as we did."

"Just so you know, Maya, everyone here pitched in on saving you," Ritsuko assured her with a smile. "There isn't a single one of us here that was willing to give up on you. Not even for an instant."

At these words, Maya felt the tears coming again, but for a different reason this time. All she could do was look at the caring people around her. Their smiles and sadness, all for her. And -

"The freak you went out of your way to save is personally responsible for the deaths of half of my best people! Including my second-in-command!" Chiron sneered nastily. As Maya sucked in a pained gasp, what comfort she had been able to take from her friends destroyed in an instant, the Section 2 head looked about. "Where's Commander Ikari? I thought he'd be here to deal with her?"

"The Commander hasn't been here since the last attack," Fuyutsuki reported, much to Maya's surprise. When she looked at the old professor, he sighed and admitted, "He was...injured by the Angel. He's already informed us that he's undergoing treatment for his wounds and that he won't be back until he's fully recovered."

"Oh..." Maya groaned, realizing what Fuyutsuki meant. A lump of bile forming in her throat, she was forced to swallow before asking, "I - is he...?"

When Maya trailed off, Fuyutsuki sighed. "I couldn't tell you how Ikari is doing. He hasn't been to NERV Medical, nor do I know who's treating him. All I can tell you is that -"

"Sub-Commander Fuyutsuki?" came a voice from off to the side. "Commander Ikari is on the line."

Shuddering in fearful anticipation, already imagining an unholy host of ways this conversation could spell her doom, Maya could only stand there as Fuyutsuki nodded. "Very well. Put on him the main display."

"Uh..." the technician working communications hesitantly replied. "It's audio only, sir. No visual."

Raising an eyebrow at this, Fuyutsuki seemed to consider this for a moment. But ultimately, he just shrugged and seemed to go with it. "Very well. Put Ikari through."

The technician nodded and worked the console. A few seconds later, a holographic window appeared featuring the crimson words, 'Audio Only'. "Sub-Commander Fuyutsuki. Dr. Akagi. Captain Chiron," came Gendo's voice over the line. "Captain Ibuki."

As Maya suffered a jab of fear at the way Gendo was talking, Fuyutsuki cleared his throat. "Commander," he began in a dignified manner. "I hope that you are...recovering."

"My physical condition is of no importance, sensei," Gendo retorted in an even manner. "What matters is the situation at hand." A beat passed before the unseen Commander continued. "Captain Ibuki. I'm pleased to see that you are doing well."

This was definitely one of the preludes to doom and despair that Maya had imagined and had braced herself for. In fact, she was so surprised by it that it took her several seconds to be able to recover and respond. "I...thank you...sir."

"Captain, I'm going to be perfectly honest with you; after your transformation, I had ordered Section 2 to terminate you by any means necessary," Gendo continued, prompting a muted gasp from Maya. "I felt that it was in the best interest of everyone, both at NERV and the world at large, to prevent a rogue Angel from being unleashed. Especially one with the capacity to infiltrate and take control of a living host. And that to put the wellbeing of the rest of the world at risk for the sake of one person was an unacceptable risk." There was silence as Maya's heartbeat slowed down the tiniest bit. "And I do not apologize for my decisions, despite being pleased that it did not come to that."

Again, there was silence. And silence gave Maya time to think. She almost wished that Gendo had kept going because her mind was a shambles of its former self. There was too much fear and trauma and dread bouncing about the confines of her mind. Too much that could send her into a panic, too much pain that was trying to force its way to the fore. And so she nervously nodded and swallowed. "I - I understand, sir," she shakily got out. "I, uh...I don't - blame you for...doing what you did."

"I'm glad to hear that Ibuki. And so I hope that you will understand my next decision," Gendo continued, causing Maya's heart to seize up. "While Dr. Akagi is confident that she was successful in subduing the Angelic nanites that have infested you, I cannot afford to take any chances. Not with the entire world at stake. Which is why I am suspending you from active duty." Despite this not being anywhere near as bad as the many worst-case scenarios that she had previously envisioned, Maya couldn't help but jump in fear. "You will not be fired, however. Officially, you will be on medical leave for treatment. And during this time, your condition will be monitored and be treated when necessary."

Gulping somewhat, Maya managed a slow nod. "I...I see, sir."

"Now as I've said, during this time, your movements will be monitored by Section 2," Gendo continued in an even manner. "And if everything goes well and there's no sign that the nanites are reasserting themselves, you will be allowed to return."

Once again, Maya had to pause and consider this. But before she could say anything, Chiron growled in his throat. "With all due respect, Commander, I must advise against this. Ibuki already killed many of my people. And to let her out on the streets where she could infect anyone -"

"Your concerns are noted, Chiron. However, I have my reasons for this," Gendo intoned. "Also, I have been notified by Fuyutsuki in regards to your rather...ham-fisted methods in dealing with Katsuragi." Chiron stiffened at this, his displeasure clear. "While I wanted you to monitor her during the recent Angel's invasion, you and your men raiding her home and stealing her belongings is unacceptable behavior. Especially coming from people charged with the safety of NERV and its people."

Knocked back a peg or three, Chiron groaned in his throat. "I - understood, sir."

"Good. I want you to track down and return all of the goods taken from her that you can. And the cost of replacing everything else will be coming directly out of your pay, Chiron," Gendo declared. "Also, sensei?"

"Yes, Ikari?" Fuyutsuki frowned somewhat.

"While Katsuragi's and the 3rd Child's actions during this crisis were...unorthodox, I cannot deny the fact that they - and all of the rest of you - turned a potential disaster into a victory. And for that, I offer you my commendations. And ask that you pass those commendations on to the others not present. Along with a warning not to go against my orders ever again," Gendo intoned. "That will be all."

With this, the holographic window disappeared. Leaving silence on the bridge...but not in Maya's heart.

Okay, so...it's just a suspension. No, a sick leave! Like - a paid vacation! Maya thought to herself. But - for how long?! How long until we know for sure if -?!

"Captain Ibuki?" came Fuyutsuki's voice, causing Maya to jump in surprise. "Did you hear me?"

"Huh?!" Maya got out even as she turned toward Fuyutsuki. When she saw the concern on his face, she gulped and shook her head. "I - sorry, sir! I've been...distracted, lately..."

"That's quite understandable," Fuyutsuki assured her with a nod. "I was just saying that you will be paid as always during your time away. And that Dr. Akagi will be visiting you at least once a week to check on your condition."

"Oh," Maya shakily nodded before glancing at Ritsuko. When her mentor gave her a weak smile, she again nodded. "I - understood, sir."

"I also want you to know that I am deeply apologetic for...everything that's happened," Fuyutsuki assured her. "I'll have you escorted back home, and -"

"Sub-Commander?" Ritsuko suddenly piped up. As eyes shifted to her, the doctor added, "If it's all the same, would it be alright if I were to help Maya get home?"

Maya had not been expecting this offer, and it was clear that Fuyutsuki had not either. But the old professor soon recovered and nodded. "Very well, Dr. Akagi. And...why don't you take the rest of the day off?" When Ritsuko started at this offer, Fuyutsuki smiled and added, "I think that it's...important that we all stand together. Help each other as we would ourselves. I...fear that that is the only way to survive...what is to come."

There was an ominous note to these words. But before Maya could give any real thought to the matter, Ritsuko nodded. "Thank you, sir." Then she focused on her former understudy and added, "C'mon, Maya. Let's go."

Still somewhat unbalanced, Maya required a moment to recover and nod. "I - okay, sempai. Um...thank you."

As Maya moved to join the doctor, Makoto's voice halted her. "Uh, and...listen, Maya? If you ever need help with anything...just call and let me know, okay?" he urged her. "Like the Sub-Commander said, we need to stick together."

"Same here," Shigeru added.

"And - I'll also help any way I can!" Chihiro assured her. "It's the least I can do after...well..."

Despite the fact that Chihiro's face fell, Maya couldn't help but be a bit moved by her friends' loyalty. "I...thanks, all of you." Pausing to heave a deep breath, she looked about the interior of NERV Central. Knowing that this would be the last time she saw this place for the foreseeable future. And once she had taken the time needed to drink deep of this place and the people there, she sighed and nodded. "I'm ready, sempai."

"Alright," Ritsuko nodded, a smile on her face as she led Maya off the bridge.

As she left, Maya couldn't help but glance back at her friends and fellows. But as she did, she couldn't help but notice Chiron glaring at her. He and the rest of his people there still holding their weapons. And as she did, she shuddered. For she suddenly realized that there was one item that had not been discussed during this brief meeting.

Namely, what would happen to her if it turned out that she hadn't been fully cured...


"So Maya's suspended from duty until the Commander's sure there's no chance of the Angel inside of her waking up," Misato glumly concluded. "And he's got that porker Chiron and his Keystone Kops on surveillance duty?"

"At least she's not stuck down here like you are," Ritsuko pointed out. It was the day after Misato's grim conversation with Maya, and it was clear that both women were worn from what had happened. "And she's still getting paid, so she doesn't have to worry too much about money."

As she sat back in her seat, Misato muttered, "I wish that was the most important thing for Maya to worry about. But...okay. So Section 2's supposed to keep an eye on Maya and make sure she doesn't chance again. But what're their orders if it looks like she is changing?"

At these words, Ritsuko's already solemn expression fell a bit. "If that happens, then they're ordered to try sedating her first." Then she frowned even more deeply. "However...if that fails, then...Commander Ikari has authorized them to use whatever means necessary to...deal with her."

"And considering what happened before, that'll take some very big guns," Misato groaned, already imagining just how badly that could go. "And that's not even getting into the possibility that that porker Chiron could just pretend Maya was changing so he has an excuse for killing her."

The groan Ritsuko issued made it clear that she realized all of this, and prompted Misato to groan as well. The worst part is...I understand why Gendo's doing this, she thought as she massaged her now-aching forehead. This Angel was able to jump from one host to another, even infecting a human being. If it were to somehow become active again and Maya started infecting people...

Wincing at the thought of half of Tokyo-3 being turned into creatures like Maya had become and the other half being turned into bloody smears, Misato decided to distract herself from these grim thoughts. "So...any word on who the new Operations Director is going to be? And if so, who I do send the condolences to?"

"Not yet. Though you won't be the only one sending condolences," Ritsuko admitted with a grim smile quirking of her lips. "You're not the only one who's noticed the bad track record we're having with our Operations Directors."

"Yeah, I don't doubt it," Misato muttered. Then she glanced at the medical kit Ritsuko had brought, along with the series of vials now filled with blood. "So, now that you've filled me in on what's happening and have vampired enough of my blood to start your own blood bank...are there any other little rays of sunshine you have in store for me?"

"Actually...yes," Ritsuko sourly muttered. "Commander Ikari told me to warn you that he wanted to have a word with you. Preferably as soon as possible."

Heaving another groan at this, Misato pinched the bridge of her nose. "Ugh...if I Hulk Out and start smashing stuff, will I still have to do it?"

"Probably," Ritsuko informed her. "And...Hulking Out? Is that what people are calling it now?"

"I don't know. It just popped out. Though I suppose it's as good a thing to call turning into a big, green rage monster as...whatever else you might think of," Misato grumbled sourly. "So when's the Commander planning on calling?"

"Actually, he told me to contact him." Surprised by this, Misato gave Ritsuko a look. "I know, I know. Originally, we had it so that you could only receive calls here, not send them. But after what happened, the Commander decided that things would have gone a lot more smoothly if you had warned us about the Angel when you first sensed it. So he had the systems reworked so you can call out from here now."

Making a face at this, Misato muttered, "And of course, he decides to do this after everything's already gone to hell and it's too late to save everyone that might have been saved. Wonderful. Of course. Ugh." Feeling her headache worsening, the purple-haired woman leaned back a bit more and studied the ceiling. "So...should I get changed for the Commander, or...?"

"You don't need to bother," Ritsuko assured her with a wry smirk. "Do you need a few minutes to psych yourself up?"

"Ugh...no. The longer this takes, the less I want to do it. Might as well call the Bastard King and get this over with," Misato grumbled even as she rose to her feet. As Ritsuko nodded, the Major straightened out her hair and sweatpants and shirt as best as she could. At least making herself somewhat presentable as the doctor worked the controls on the small table in the center of the living room.

An instant later, a holographic window appeared above the table. But to Misato's surprise, there was no sign of Gendo's face. There was only a black window with the words 'Audio Only' displayed in red. "Commander Ikari?" Ritsuko began. "I'm here with Misato, and...we're contacting you as ordered."

"So I see," came Gendo's voice. "Greetings, Major."

"Uh...Commander?" Misato frowned, not liking this in the least. "Is something wrong? We've only got audio on this end."

"There's no malfunction, Major. Nor is that of importance," Gendo replied in a dismissive manner. "Now let us proceed with the business at hand."

Misato didn't like this. While she knew people who disliked using the video function of NERV communications and avoided them whenever possible, Gendo had never been one of them. But before this train of thought went too far, she reminded herself that the Commander had recently been injured and was presently being treated somewhere off-base. Maybe the place he's at is classified, or...he just doesn't want anybody seeing him bandaged up or whatever, Misato eventually decided. I know that I sure wouldn't want anybody seeing pictures of me the way I was...before.

Deciding that this made as much sense as anything, Misato nodded and proceeded. "Very well, Commander."

"First of all, I've arranged for all of the goods taken from your enclosure to be replaced. A crew will be by later to deliver everything. And you will be compensated for the food that was taken," Gendo proceeded in a no-nonsense tone of voice.

"Thank you, sir," Misato nodded, wondering if Gendo could see her.

"Next, there is the matter of the request you've made," Gendo continued, his voice more curious than anything else. "I have to admit to being surprised that you would wish to forgo a chance at a cure. Especially when Dr. Akagi already has multiple options for preventing you from transforming again. Now Fuyutsuki has already explained the case you made for doing so, but still...I want to hear why you've made this decision. With my own ears."

"Yes, sir," Misato nodded, pausing to take a deep breath and gather her thoughts. "A big part of my decision is the fact that I was able to achieve control over She-Hulk while transformed. Yes, that control was lost multiple times, but if I was capable of gaining control once, then I'm sure that more permanent control is possible. And now that we know that it is possible for me to control this thing, then I honestly feel that it would be in the best interests of NERV and the entire world to do whatever it needed to give me control of this thing."

"That explains the timing of your request, Major," Gendo informed her in a no-nonsense manner. "But how does trying to tame your other self benefit NERV?"

"Well, for starters, my big green self wouldn't require all of that taxpayer money that we're constantly funneling into the Evas," Misato pointed out, knowing full well that this was one of the major sticking points in regards to people who protested NERV's operations and extreme autonomy. "Not to mention the fact that she can keep going for a lot longer than five minutes. And is a lot easier to deploy in the field." A beat passed before she added, "Besides, I know one of the big reasons that the Evas were designed the way they were; because we were expecting to be fighting things like Adam. Because the Committee and everyone else expected that each of the Angels would be giant humanoid monsters. But in case you haven't noticed, that hasn't been the case!"

"Believe me, I am aware of this," Gendo assured her. "Just as I am aware of how your other self has been useful with situations that the Evangelions have proven to be...ill-suited to deal with."

"And that's not even getting into the fact that this would also make for some good publicity for NERV," Misato went on, warming to the subject. "Think of all the bad press we've gotten. All the news networks and conspiracy theorists who've been having a field day at NERV's expense! But what would happen if you not 'cured' me of being a monster, but were able to present the public with a new weapon against the Angels? Two birds with one stone, Commander!"

"That is all assuming that we can even find a way of giving you control of your other self, Major," Gendo pointed out. "And even if it is possible, there's no way of knowing how long it will take. For all we know, the Angel War could be over before that happens."

"I realize that that's a possibility," Misato reluctantly conceded. "But even if that does happen, we've already seen the big green bitch rip through everything that's been thrown at her without any trouble. For the most part, all we've had to do is point her in the right direction and tell her to start smashing. And yes, I know, that might not be the case with the next Angel that shows up." Pausing to take a deep breath, the purple-haired woman scowled intently at the holographic window. Wondering if Gendo could see the intensity of her scowl. "But let's be perfectly honest with ourselves, Commander; this is a war for survival. And can we honestly afford to throw away anything that might be able to help us win? To stop the Angels, once and for all?"

There was a heavy silence in the wake of these words. "You make a...compelling point, Major," Gendo finally admitted. "However, I do not like the idea of utilizing She-Hulk. She's unpredictable and difficult to control. Things that can make her every bit as dangerous as the Angels. And now that we have a potential cure ready, I don't want to hesitate in putting it to good use."

"But sir -!" Misato started to protest.

"However, if Dr. Akagi's plan fails, then we will assign her and the rest of her people to helping you gain control of She-Hulk," Gendo declared, cutting Misato off. "Furthermore...I've decided to hire a professional psychologist to work here at NERV."

This was something that Misato had not been expecting. "A...psychologist?"

"Yes. Dr. Akagi has made it clear that she has not had any luck in learning why you lose control when you transform. However, this latest battle has made it clear that control is possible, if extremely difficult," Gendo went on to explain. "So perhaps someone who is better trained in understanding how the mind works could provide us with insight as to why you lose control in such a way."

As Misato considered this, Ritsuko frowned. "You're moving awfully fast, Commander. Why bring a psychologist in when we're almost ready to implement the gamma siphon procedure?"

"Because while I have nothing but confidence in your abilities, Doctor, Major Katsuragi's other self has been the source of several rude surprises since her emergence. And I want to be ready, just in case she has a few more in store for us," Gendo informed her.

Besides, if there's any place on the planet that's in dire need of a psychologist, Rits, it's this place, Misato couldn't help but think. What she actually said was, "Very well, sir. If that's your...final decision. However, I do feel that just discarding She-Hulk would be a serious error. At the very least, I'd be willing to wait until the Angel War is over before attempting a cure."

"That may be, Major. But I feel it is in our best interests to eliminate any and all random variables in our war with the Angels. And She-Hulk is most definitely a...random variable, to say the least," Gendo informed them. "And as I understand it, this procedure of Dr. Akagi's works by removing the energy that fuels your transformations, not the mutagenic factors that cause it in the first place."

"That's correct, sir," Ritsuko nodded.

"Then it seems reasonable to assume that, if the need arose, we could reintroduce gamma into your system at a later date if the need arose. In a more controlled manner than what happened with Jet Alone, of course," Gendo informed them. "For now, however, I feel it is best to remove She-Hulk from the equation altogether, rather than risk another of her destructive outbursts." Even as Misato was groaning in dismay, the Commander went on to say, "All of that being said, Major, I have decided to grant the request you made of Sub-Commander Fuyutsuki. I've already arranged for Lieutenant Tama to be briefed in regards to your condition so you can proceed."

"I...see," Misato hesitantly replied. "I...thank you, sir."

"That will be all," Gendo declared. And without another word, the holographic window disappeared from sight.

As Misato continued to stare into the empty space the window had once occupied, she scowled furiously. Dammit it all...all the power we could ever want to help us win this war and the Commander's about to throw it all away! Then she scowled bit more and added, Of course, he might not be in such a hurry to do that is you were a bit more cooperative, Greenie! If only you -!

"Alright. And now that that's out of the way, Misato...there's something that I'd like to know," Ritsuko began, speaking somewhat suspiciously. "You're the one who asked me to ask Gendo about letting Lieutenant Tama in on all this. And now that he's going to be in on it...why? Hideki isn't a scientist! He's in charge of the NERV exercise facility!"

"Huh? Oh, right!" Misato started as she stirred herself from her thoughts. "Well, Rits...it's like this..."


"There! That takes care of the curried chicken!" Shinji declared with a note of accomplishment as he removed the delicacy from the oven. Then he moved to wrap it up in foil and ready it for transport to NERV.

In the wake of the recent Angel attack and everything that had happened as a result, Shinji had been spending a great deal of time in the kitchen. Cooking assorted meals for Misato to replace that which had been stolen from her enclosure by Section 2. Partly because he knew painfully well what it was like to try and survive on Misato's cooking. But also because it...kept him busy.

There was just too much going that Shinji had to cope with. Misato, She-Hulk, NERV's machinations, the Brigade, and his father. And this was all on top of his duties of fighting the Angels and training and more. It was all just so overwhelming; there were days when he felt like he was holding on tight with both hands, but it still wasn't quite enough. There was just so much that needed to be done, and there were days when Shinji felt that, if he allowed himself to sit down and stop, then all of it would pile up on top of him and he would wind up freezing up. And thus would render himself useless to Misato and everyone else.

And I - I can't do that! Not after what she's done for me! Shinji thought. Only to wince and add, And after...everything that's happened to her because of me...and father...

At this, Shinji winced. But before he could even try to pick up his chain of thought where it had fallen off, the sound of footsteps approaching caught his attention. Getting a bad feeling, he turned and saw his redheaded housemate approaching. "Hey, Third," she started in a gruff manner, placing her hands on her hips. "We need to talk."

Sucking in a gasp of dismay, Shinji set down the curried chicken. He had been dreading this moment ever since Hikari had made it clear that she would talk to Asuka about her recent activities. And even though she had been silent in the wake of that meeting, he had known that this would not last. When Asuka was mad or upset, she was not one to suffer in silence. And certainly not one who would fail to make her displeasure known to everyone in sundry. It has only been a matter of time.

And so, preparing himself for the worst, Shinji gulped slightly and nodded. "I - okay..."

"I do not appreciate you ratting me out to Hikari, baka!" Asuka declared with a heavy scowl. Then she averted her eyes before admitting, "And...she didn't appreciate...a whole lot of stuff! So...alright, here's the deal! You're off the hook with my homework, okay?! But -!" The German paused, sucking in a deep breath even as she clenched her fists. "But - look! You're to stop - I mean...alright. I don't want you spreading any of your crazy conspiracy theories about NERV, got that?! You might not give a damn about NERV, you might be too stupid to see the kind of opportunities it gives us, but I'm not! And the last thing I want is to have even more reporters and politicians and whatever going after NERV just because you can't keep your mouth shut! Got that?!"

When Asuka had finished her declaration, she was still scowling her frustration at Shinji. And he knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that she would be more than happy to vent that frustration on him physically. Deciding not to push his luck, he sighed and nodded. "I...okay, look," he began, wanting to make his position clear with provoking the redhead to a violent outburst. "I...I was never going to go...telling all of this stuff to the press. But...I'm sure that Father - that the Commander is responsible for what happened with Jet Alone! That he turned Misato - and...I can't ignore that!" When Asuka just stood there, glaring muted displeasure at him, he took this as a good sign and continued. "I - I'm not going to say anything bad about NERV. Not unless I can find proof that they're behind Jet Alone!" Shinji paused to gulp before adding, "But...if I do find proof, then...I'm not going to stay silent about it. Okay?"

Still scowling irately, Asuka continued to glare at Shinji. Like she was trying to force down the urge to throttle him. But eventually, she sighed and shook her head. "You better mean that, Third! Because if word one of these stupid conspiracy theories of yours gets out to the press, then I will make you regret it for the rest of your very short life!"

"I mean it!" Shinji hurriedly assured her, a bit more optimistic that he could get out of this without being subjected to German knuckles. "I don't want to make anybody look bad! I just want justice! For Misato, and...well..."

As Shinji shrugged helplessly, the German growled in her throat. "Alright, whatever. But I still think that you're wasting your time!" Then she gave a nasty smirk and added, "After all, what could a useless little baka ever hope to do?"

Not even considering mentioning that he was already getting a fair amount accomplished, Shinji replied, "I...don't know. But - I still have to try!" After a moment's consideration, he added, "I mean - what would you do if Kaji was hurt or something? And you thought that someone was responsible for it? Wouldn't you try and prove it? I mean - you wouldn't just let it go, would you?"

Despite Asuka's efforts to conceal her feelings, Shinji could still see the approach working on her. So much so that she finally sighed and grumbled, "Okay, okay, fine! I guess how you want to waste your life is your business!" Then she wrinkled her nose and added, "But while you might be off the hook for my homework, don't even think that you won't be pulling your weight around here! So you better get to work on dinner! I'm in the mood for lasagna, and you -!"

At that moment, the doorbell rang. Both the 2nd and 3rd Child jumped at the sound and looked about, with Asuka scowling even more. "Aw, that better not be Hikari! I'm not in the mood for another lecture...!"

As Asuka marched off, Shinji sighed and returned to his work. Only to be interrupted again when he heard Asuka squeal, "Kaji!"

"Hello, Asuka," came the unshaven man's voice. "Mind if I come in?"

"Not at all, Kaji-kun!" Asuka cooed. "And how are you doing?"

"Hmm...been better," Kaji replied. A few moments later, the unshaven man appeared with Asuka clamped to his left arm. "Hello, Shinji. I see you've been busy."

"Uh, yeah," Shinji nodded before gesturing at the curried chicken and other items. "I've been...cooking some new stuff for Misato. You know, to replace what Section 2 took."

"So I see. And from what I'm seeing, you've made good progress on that," Kaji nodded thoughtfully. "Tell you what; why don't I give you a lift to NERV? That's a lot of food, and I think it would be better if you didn't try carrying it all by yourself."

"Wha-?!" Asuka squawked in clear dismay. "But Kaji, you just got here!"

"Don't worry, Asuka. You'll be seeing more of me around here," Kaji assured her. "So how about it, Shinji?"

Shinji paused at this and took a moment to take in the angry scowl being sent his way. He already felt as if he had gotten supremely lucky in how he had dodged the bullet with Asuka, and the last thing he wanted was to push his luck any further on that front. "Uh, you don't have to go to the trouble," Shinji assured Kaji. "I can manage by myself."

"No, Shinji, I insist!" Kaji declared with a broad smile. "In fact, why don't you start taking stuff down to my car? It'll give me a chance to have a chat with Asuka."

Again, Shinji considered this. At first, he contemplated continuing to refuse Kaji's offer. But while he wasn't the most gifted when it came to the social graces and reading people, he got the feeling that Kaji wasn't going to take no for an answer. And in all honesty, carrying all of these foodstuffs on his own would be a difficult matter. So pausing to again be skewered with a glare from Asuka, he sighed and nodded. "Well...if you're sure..."

"I'm sure. Now go ahead and start taking that stuff down," Kaji smiled in a thoughtful manner. "This won't take long."

Nodding to this, Shinji collected the curried chicken and a few other small items before starting out of the kitchen. All the while feeling Asuka's caustic glare burning holes in his back.


Grrr...! Dammit, baka! Why can't you just stand up for your right to take the train to Headquarters?! Asuka vehemently thought as Shinji departed. Do you have any idea how long it's been since I've been able to make a move on Kaji?! I -!

"And that now that Shinji's gone...I'd like to have a word with you, Asuka," Kaji spoke. But his voice wasn't the charming and playful voice that the German knew so well. And so it was with an air of surprise that she stepped back from the unshaven man and looked into his face. And saw him glaring sternly back. "About the main reason I'm here."

"The...main reason?" Asuka blankly repeated.

"I got a call from Hikari Horaki. Your Class Representative," Kaji continued in that same voice. "About what happened at school? And how you've been forcing Shinji to do your homework and all of the rest of it?" At these words, Asuka groaned as if in pain. "She also told me about how you punched Shinji in the face, and...I am very disappointed."

Pausing to sputter like a fish out of water, Asuka went, "But - Kaji -!"

"No 'buts', Asuka! There's no excuse for that sort of behavior!" Kaji declared in a stern manner. "Now you're very lucky that Hikari arranged to contact me instead of contacting somebody at NERV itself. Because if that had happened...well, let's just say that you would be having a very different conversation with someone much less understanding than I am. And you would be in a lot of trouble with the brass there."

Hey, just because the Third is their favorite, that doesn't mean that -! Asuka started thinking, only to cut herself off when Kaji leaned in closer to her.

"I have to tell you, Asuka; I am very disappointed in you," Kaji declared even as he gave a slow shake of his head. "If you feel that this sort of behavior is in any way acceptable, then I clearly did a very poor job as your guardian. And I'm going to have to make up for that." Pausing to let this sink in, the unshaven man went on to say, "Now I haven't been by a lot in recent times. I have my own business to deal with, and I honestly thought that you were mature and responsible enough to hold down the fort here without any help. But I was obviously mistaken about that. And so you can expect to see me here more often." As Asuka's mouth again popped open, Kaji then turned and started away. "Now I'm going to help Shinji deliver those meals for Katsuragi. But when I get back, you and I are going to have a long, hard talk about your behavior since she's been away, Asuka. Count on it."

Without another word, Kaji turned and exited the apartment. Leaving Asuka to stand there, dumbstruck by what had just happened.

A few seconds passed as she considered what had just happened. Kaji-kun's...going to be here more often?! was the first thought to cross Asuka's mind...right before she grinned broadly and pumped her fists. Yes! This could be my big chance! To show him just much better I am than that slut Misato! How much more grown-up...and...adult...and...oh...

As her thoughts broke down, Asuka groaned in her mind and out loud. For the rest of Kaji's words were sinking in, and she realized that this chance wasn't nearly as golden as she had first pictured it. Because Kaji wasn't going to be here as someone who viewed himself as a friend that she could woo into something more. He was going to be there on business. As her guardian. As a stern disciplinarian who viewed her as naught but an unruly child who couldn't be trusted to be on her own.

But - dammit, it's not like that! The Third's the one who screwed me over! Asuka furiously thought. If not for him and his stupid conspiracy theories, Kaji wouldn't -! Her frustration boiling over, the redhead scowled and thought evil thoughts of the pallid, weak-willed, worthless excuse for a human being responsible for this mess. Alright, baka...I might not be able to stick you with my homework anymore...but one way or another, I'm going to make your life even more miserable than it already is!


"Uh...thanks for helping me out with this, Kaji," Shinji hesitantly thanked the unshaven man. The unlikely duo had arrived at NERV Headquarters and were in the process of making their way down to the depths where Misato's enclosure was located. "I...have to admit that...it would've been a lot harder to get all of this food to NERV by myself."

"Hey, no problem, Shinji!" Kaji smiled in reassurance. "Besides, it's been a while since I've checked in with Katsuragi! And from what I've heard...well, she might need some comforting right now." Pausing to heave a deep sigh, the unshaven man added, "I mean...I was told about what happened. With...Maya and all the rest of it."

Shuddering somewhat as he thought about Maya, Shinji nodded. "Yeah. It...it was bad, and..." Exhaling loudly, the meek 3rd Child shook his head. "I just hope that...well...she really was cured, and..."

"Same here," Kaji nodded as he continued to carry multiple bundles of food underneath both arms. "There's been way too much bad stuff going on lately. We're long since past due for some good news!"

Unable to debate this, Shinji sighed and continued forward. And eventually, both he and Kaji reached the heavily armored enclosure where Misato now lived. To their surprise, there were already several people standing there, carrying what looked like exercise equipment. "Whoa, what's this all about?" Kaji exclaimed as he took in the various weights, machines, and other odds and ends. "Are you setting up a gym down here?!"

"Uh...something like that," replied a nearby technician, who was leaning against a weight machine. When Kaji opened his mouth again, the technician jerked his thumb at the enclosure, "I think you should ask the Major what's going on. Because there is no way in hell you'd believe it otherwise!"

Kaji gave Shinji a look at this, which the meek 3rd Child immediately returned. The two of them then shrugged as best as they could before Shinji made his way to the door of the enclosure. Pausing just long enough to set down his burden of food, he then pressed a button on the heavy door. "Uh, Misato?" he carefully started, wondering what the heck was going on. "It's me, Shinji. Are you up, or -?"

"Hey, Shinji!" came Misato's voice. "Glad to hear you! After - well, anyway! Come on in!"

Shinji was about to slide his NERV ID Card through the card reader. But before he could do so, he glanced back at Kaji. Recalling what happened when the unshaven man had first encountered the green giantess, he cleared his throat before adding, "Uh...Kaji - he's here, too. He drove me here, and...well -"

"Oh, great," Misato grumbled, cutting Shinji off. "I don't suppose you can leave that jerk outside, can you?" Shinji was about to respond when he heard someone else speaking through the intercom. Only this voice was so soft and garbled with static that he couldn't make sense of what was being said. The next thing he was able to discern was a sigh of resignation. "Ugh...fine, fine! The jerk can come in! But he better be on his best behavior if doesn't want you-know-who to make his life miserable!"

"Believe me, Katsuragi; I've come to the conclusion that green really isn't a color I'm fond of," Kaji muttered beneath his breath. Just loud enough for Shinji to hear.

Deciding that Kaji wasn't planning on doing anything that would prompt an appearance from She-Hulk, Shinji sighed. Pausing just long enough to say a little prayer that he wasn't about to make a huge mistake, he proceeded to slide his ID Card through the reader. With a loud clunk, the locks disengaged and the huge door began to open. Bending down to grab up the food, Shinji was still forced to wait a bit for the door to open enough for him to enter. And when he did, he was in for a surprise.

Misato was seated on one of the coaches, with Ritsuko seated opposite. But what caught Shinji's attention was the presence of a stranger, who was presently turning towards the newcomers. "Oh, hey, you two," he muttered in a disbelieving manner. "Are you here to drag me back to something that resembles sanity?"

"Uh..." Shinji started, pausing to study the unfamiliar man. "Who...?"

"This is Lieutenant Hideki Tama. He's in charge of NERV's exercise facility," Ritsuko explained. "You and Kaji, come in. You are not going to believe this."

"Uh...believe what?" Shinji wondered even as he stepped inside of the enclosure. As Kaji moved to follow, the 3rd Child then held up the bundles he carried. "And - oh, Misato, look! I cooked up some fresh meals for you!"

A broad smile appearing on her face, Misato answered, "I know you would, Shinji. Thank you." Pausing to glare at Kaji, she smiled again and said, "Listen, could you two put that stuff in the kitchen? I'm kinda busy with Rits and Hideki here."

"Uh, okay," Shinji nodded before heading towards the kitchen. "So, um...what are you busy with? And what's with all of that equipment out there?"

"I'm having it moved in here," Misato cheerfully informed them.

It was all Shinji could do to avoid dropping the meals he had prepared as the world fell on its side. As for Kaji, the unshaven man let out a surprised gasp before almost falling himself. As it was, Shinji was in time to see him juggling the various bundles in an effort to keep them or himself from tumbling to the floor.

"Uh - Kaji, be careful!" Shinji bleated, hoping like crazy that the soufflé wasn't among the things he had given the unshaven man. When Kaji finally managed from having a bomb dropped on his world, Shinji then turned towards the purple-haired woman. "And - wait, Misato! You - all of that equipment...it's for you?!"

"That's right," Misato confirmed with a broad smile. "Why don't you put all of that away? I'll explain everything later."

Blinking a few times at this, Shinji exchanged a perplexed look with Kaji. He had been aware of Misato getting some aerobic gear in her enclosure, and that had been astonishing enough. But he had accepted both her and Ritsuko's explanation that it had been in response to her getting stir-crazy inside of this gilded cage. But exercise bikes and so on were a far cry from the gym's worth of exercise machines, weight plates, barbells, dumbbells, and other exercise equipment that was now sitting outside of the enclosure.

Uh...I know I should be happy that Misato's trying to take better care of herself, but...this doesn't feel right, Shinji thought with a note of worry. Already moving to carefully place the food in the refrigerator even as Kaji moved to join him. Is she...what's going on?!

As Shinji and Kaji stocked the fridge, Hideki made a noise of concern. "Okay, um...putting aside the fact that I'm still freaking out over the fact that Major Katsuragi part-times as the big, green monster that's freaking out the entire city - something that I'm having a really hard time doing! - I can definitely put together an intense bodybuilding routine to get you in top condition." A beat passed before he added, "And I have to admit...according to these medical tests Dr. Akagi provided...you're in a lot better shape than I would've expected from someone with your...dietary habits..."

Turning around just in time to see Misato scowling, Shinji watched as Ritsuko flashed a knowing smile. "You can thank She-Hulk for that one," she reported, giving the purple-haired woman a playful elbow in the side. "From what I've been able to tell, the regenerative effects of her mutation and subsequent transformations have been repairing all of the damage she's been doing to her body over the years."

"Hmm...I wonder if that includes the kind of damage I've done..." Kaji murmured beneath his breath. When Shinji made a confused noise and gave the unshaven man a look, he smirked and gave a dismissive wave of his hand. "Uh, just joking, Shinji."

Getting the feeling this was not a joke, Shinji was about to say something to that effect when Hideki continued. "However, I have to admit that I have my concerns about all this. With high-impact exercise and especially free weights like barbells, there's always a chance of injury. Especially given the fact that you're just starting out and don't know the right way of doing this sort of thing. So ideally, you'd want a spotter. Someone to assist you and make sure that you didn't get in trouble or injure yourself while exercising." Then he frowned and added, "However, from what you've told me, such an injury could easily trigger the Major's...condition. In which case -"

"This new gym would be history. I'd already thought of that," Ritsuko assured him. "Which is why I've designed something new; a collar loaded with a tranquilizer."

"Huh?!" Misato started, giving her best friend a look. "But this place is already loaded with sleep gas! Why -?!

"Because as we've already seen, it takes a while for that stuff to kick in. Remember those close calls we had?" Ritsuko pointed out. "So ideally, we'd want something that would work faster. Especially since She-Hulk showing up equals a lot of expensive equipment being broken and worse. And if you're going to be getting more into exercise, we have to take some extra precautions. So -"

"Okay, okay. I get the idea," Misato grumbled sourly, giving a dismissive wave.

"Wait, Akagi-san...this collar," Shinji piped up, getting an idea. "This collar...does it have to look like a collar? I mean - could you make it look like a necklace? Or make it so that it could be covered up or something?"

Frowning somewhat, Ritsuko gave a slight shrug. "I suppose so. The electronics for monitoring Misato's heart rate and triggering the sedative are definitely small enough. The only problem is making sure that there's enough sedative in it to do the job, but...it's certainly doable."

"Then...maybe Misato wouldn't have to stay here all of the time?" Shinji suggested with increasing hope. "I mean - she could go out to see a movie, or...you know. Stuff like that?"

"Hey, that's right," Kaji chimed in with a smile. "What do you think, Ritsuko? You don't mind helping Katsuragi get some fresh air, now do you? Or at least whatever passes for fresh in the big city?"

Ritsuko considered the two of them for a moment before smiling. "How about you two let me finish hammering out this arrangement with Lieutenant Tama before we get into that, alright?" Then she returned her attention to Hideki. "Now, as Misato already mentioned, this enclosure is designed to distribute sleep gas in case it detects She-Hulk's energy pattern. And in addition to the collar I mentioned, I feel this should make things safe enough for someone to work with Misato and help her with her new exercise regime." When Hideki still didn't look too happy, she smiled and added, "Also, I should mention that Commander Ikari has authorized a raise for you, if you agree to help with this."

This definitely got Hideki's attention. The dark-haired male made a thoughtful noise in his throat even as he shifted about in his seat for a time. Then he sighed and shrugged. "Well...okay, I guess. It's not like I get much business in the actual gym. What with everybody being so busy these days dealing with the latest crisis. So..." Pausing to shake his head, he then gave Ritsuko a look. "Just - do me a favor and make sure you do everything to keep me from winding up a stain, okay? A raise doesn't do me any good if I'm not around to enjoy it!"

"I understand. But I wouldn't worry too much," Ritsuko assured him. "If things work out the way I hope they will, you won't be on this job for very long."

Still clearly uncertain, Hideki turned towards Misato. "Alright, Major. I'll work up an exercise schedule for you. So...when do you want to get started on this?"

"As soon as possible," Misato declared without hesitation. "The sooner I can get started on this, the better."

"Then...I guess I'll be here tomorrow," Hideki hesitantly replied. "See you then, Major."

"Seeya," Misato nodded even as Hideki rose up and started towards the door.

Once Hideki had departed, Shinji and Kaji made their way over to the two women. "So, Katsuragi," the unshaven man casually started, giving Misato a meaningful look. "What are you up to?"

"What are you talking about?" Misato wondered, some annoying sparking in her eyes.

"C'mon, Katsuragi! I know you!" Kaji smirked even as he leaned in closer. "Exercise has never been a big thing of yours! And while I can see you getting stir-crazy down here...I can't believe that you'd get bit by the fitness bug as easily as this!" Then he gave her an extra sickeningly sweet smile before adding, "That is, unless it was for a specific reason."

Scowling at this, Misato grumbled, "Just keep talking, Kaji. I'm sure a certain green somebody would love to let you know what she thinks of your mouth."

"She already has, remember?" Ritsuko chimed in. "But Kaji's right, Misato. You've never shown much interest in exercise. And before you remind me, yes, I know that our schedules didn't exactly leave us much time to stay fit. But there is a big difference between staying fit and this. You spent most of the time that Lieutenant Tama was here asking about exercise supplements, improving muscle condition, the works. And the only time that you get that deeply wrapped up in something is when you're after a specific goal." Narrowing her eyes, Ritsuko leaned in closer to the Major. "Now I can think of precisely one reason why you'd suddenly be so interested in bodybuilding. And I hope like hell that I'm wrong."

Misato just sat there, her eyes narrowed in annoyance. "I don't suppose I can just bullshit my way out of this, can I?"

"I'm the one who can tell those people to take that exercise equipment back where they found it, remember?" Ritsuko countered.

At this, Misato groaned heavily. "Okay, look. I just...got to thinking. I know that and the Commander want to get rid of She-Hulk, but - after what happened - if I can get control, I honestly think that she could be a real help! And then, I thought - okay, look." Pausing to stand up, the purple-haired woman moved to face them all. "Now - we've already established that when I go green, I - get bigger. And I mean a lot bigger!"

"Aw, don't be ashamed, Katsuragi," Kaji smirked insufferably. "So you put on a few pounds! You still wear it well!"

Groaning at this and the way this barbed comment garnered an angry glare with more than a spark of green to it, Shinji was about to say something when Ritsuko beat him to it. "Kaji, could you not push Misato's buttons? Because I am not a huge fan of the way she loses control and turns into an enormous green rage monster!"

When Kaji completely failed to show any remorse for his taunts, Shinji decided that it might be a good idea to distract Misato from her annoyance. "So - okay, you get bigger when you change. So...?"

"So I get a lot bigger and a lot stronger. Right," Misato nodded. "Basically, this..." she began, flexing her right arm with nary a muscle to be seen. "...turns into - boom!" Making an explosive gesture with her hands, the purple-haired woman went on to say. "So I got to thinking...what if I had more here to start with?" Pausing to tug at the skin where her biceps were, she continued with, "Maybe if I were stronger, than -!"

"I knew it!" Ritsuko groaned despairingly, placing her hands on her forehead. "Of all the -!"

"Rits, give me a break!" Misato countered. "I'm just saying that -!"

"You're saying that you want to take a nearly unstoppable rage monster and make her even more unstoppable!" Ritsuko heatedly countered. "Misato, how in the hell could that ever possibly be a good idea?!"

"Like I told you, Rits; we've had plenty of nasty surprises coming our way lately! Both from the Angels and all of the lunatics that have been showing up! Like Rhino and Grey Gargoyle! And let me remind you that we have no idea where they came from or whether or not there might be more fruitcakes like them on their way!" Misato declared in a firm tone. "So I think we should be prepared for the worst!"

"In case you've forgotten, Misato, She-Hulk has already managed to handle everything those lunatics and the Angels and NERV has been able to throw at her!" Ritsuko reminded her. "No matter what's thrown at her or how big a monster she's fought, the absolute worst anything's been able to do to her is piss her off! And pissing her off only makes her even more destructive and uncontrollable! If you ask me, she's already strong enough as it is!"

"And if you ask me, we have to be ready for the worst! Because if we lose to the Angels...well, trust me when I say that we don't want that! Because I've seen firsthand what'll happen then!" Misato declared. When Ritsuko groaned and massaged her forehead, the purple-haired woman asked, "So what? Are you going to try and cancel my new gym and the rest of it?"

The look Ritsuko gave Misato made it clear that she was sorely tempted to do just that. But the faux-blonde instead heaved a tired sigh. "The Commander's already approved this, and if I could figure out what you were up to, then I'm sure he did as well." Then Ritsuko gave Misato a nasty look and added, "Besides, with any luck, this will keep you too busy to give me any trouble until you're cured and life gets back to normal around here."

Shinji shifted about uneasily at the mention of the cure. But when he spoke, it wasn't about that. He just looked about at Ritsuko and Kaji and softly asked, "Listen, uh...would it be alright if I could...talk with Misato? I mean -" Pausing to swallow, he then heaved a sigh. "There's something I - well, that is -"

"You want a chance to talk with Katsuragi without us listening in, huh?" Kaji intuited. Jumping slightly at the blunt nature of these words, Shinji looked up at him even as the unshaven man eyed the doctor. "Well, what do you say, Rits? Think we can clear out long enough to give them some privacy?"

"I don't see why not. Especially since I've already got a full workload for today," Ritsuko muttered. "And the sooner I get to work on it all, the better I'll like it."

"Thanks," was all Shinji said in response. And so he stood up and watched as Ritsuko and Kaji made their way to the door.

"I'll be back to check on you later, Katsuragi," Kaji playfully smirked, giving her an equally playful wave.

"Do that, and it'll be someone big, green, and mad that'll be waiting for you with open arms," Misato assured him in a poisonously sweet manner. Punctuating her statement with a one-fingered salute.

Kaji just smiled some more as he and Ritsuko exited the enclosure. After a few seconds, the door creaked back into place, an audible clunk announcing that it was locked and sealed shut. Leaving Shinji and Misato alone.

"Well, Shinji-kun," Misato smiled as she turned towards the boy. "So...you want to...?"

"Uh...yeah," Shinji nodded, pausing to gulp down the lump of bile that had formed in his throat. He had never been good at dealing with people, even on his better days. And with everything that had been happening, all of the turmoil and confusion and more that he was struggling to deal with...this was not one of his better days. "Misato, I...it's just that - well -"

"You don't have to say anything, Shinji-kun." Starting at these words, Shinji looked up to see Misato smiling and waving aside his concerns. "It's about my decision, right? To not go after a cure?"

Momentarily taken aback by how upfront Misato was being, Shinji required a few moments to recover. "Uh - no! That's not - well, I mean that's not the whole -!" Then he cut himself off again and shook his head. Pausing to recover, he heaved a deep breath and tried again. "What I mean is...I'm really sorry that I - I ran off before. I mean...when you said that - I really didn't know how to handle...you know..."

As Shinji shrugged helplessly, Misato nodded. "I understand. I...I don't blame you for freaking out like that," she assured him. "I mean...after everything that had happened, and -"

"But - it's still my fault, Misato," Shinji declared even as he moved closer to her. "I - I ran away from you. I shouldn't have, but...I still ran away..."

"Shinji, you've been through hell. Even before Greenie showed up, you've been put through...so much. And you've done so much, both for the people here and for the entire world. You almost got killed by the 5th Angel, and - you've done so much. And I - I'm a responsible for that as anybody. It's always been my job to send you into these battles. To make you fight and risk getting killed, and..." With this, Misato paused and heaved a sad sigh. "I know that - you don't want this, Shinji. That you never wanted to be a part of this war."

Wincing at this, Shinji sighed and lowered his gaze. "I...I never - I mean...I know that we have to win, so...I don't mind."

"But I do. I hate the fact that you and the others have to fight in this war. And if She-Hulk can let me fight instead, then..." Trailing off into a helpless shrug, Misato knelt down a bit to look Shinji in the eyes. "But - I understand that - that can't be easy for you."

"I -" Shinji started, only to cut himself off. He wasn't sure how to say what he wanted to say. And he wanted to be sure to avoid saying things that he knew he shouldn't. "I still - I ran away, Misato. I didn't - I know I shouldn't have, but...I still - hmm?!"

Shinji found his words halted by a gentle finger placed upon his lips. "I understand, Shinji. And I'm not mad about you," Misato assured him. "I know that...what I decided, that it couldn't be easy for you." A beat passed before she added, "But if it makes you feel any better, it looks like I'm going to be getting Ritsuko's cure anyway."

This caused Shinji to go rigid with surprise. "Huh - wait, Akagi-san, she did say -!" he started, only to cut himself off again. "So...what's going on?"

"Why don't we sit down? I'll get you caught up on everything," Misato offered.

"Uh...okay," Shinji replied, not sure what else he could or should say. So without another word, he allowed himself to be escorted to a nearby couch.

For the next few minutes, Misato explained everything that had been happening, including Gendo's decision. "So that's it," she soon concluded. "If Ritsuko's cure works, then I'll be back home in a couple weeks. And if it doesn't, then we go ahead with trying to put Greenie on a leash. So until then..."

When Misato sighed and shrugged, Shinji was uncertain what to say or even feel. On the one hand, the possibility of Misato returning home soon was certainly good news.

But at the same, no matter how much he wished he could deny it, there was a part of him that was hoping that whatever cure Ritsuko had created wouldn't work. That She-Hulk would somehow survive the procedure. That the green giantess that had defended Shinji, had cuddled and loved and cared for him would continue to be a part of his life.

As the rational part of Shinji's mind scolded the part that would hope for such things, Misato nodded. "I know. It's a lot to take in all at once. And..." Pausing to shake her head, the purple-haired woman sighed again. "And I know that - I probably should be hoping that I can be cured so that everything can get back to normal. But - the fact is that curing me won't stop freaks like Rhino and Grey Gargoyle and whatever else is out there from showing up." Then she gave Shinji a rueful look. "And even if it did...considering the fact that 'normal' around here consists of us trying to survive horrible monsters trying to wipe us out and all the rest of it, I don't see how 'normal' is a good thing."

There was a heavy silence in the wake of these words. Silence that eventually ended when Misato concluded, "We're at war here, Shinji. You know that. I know that. And we both know just how ugly this war can get. I - you and the others have almost -" The purple-haired woman gave a shudder at this, prompting her to close her eyes for a moment. And when she opened them again, there was great pain in them. "She-Hulk could help us end this war. End the Angels, once and for all. All without you or the others getting hurt anymore. And if she can do that, then...then getting rid of her is the last thing we should be trying to do."

Again, there was silence. Shinji couldn't think of a single thing to say.

After several seconds, Misato heaved a solemn breath. "Shinji...I don't blame you for leaving before. And I understand if you're upset. But please, just say something! If you're mad or -!"

"No, I - I'm not mad, Misato!" Shinji quickly assured her. Pausing to heave a deep breath, he hesitated before speaking. "I just - there's a lot that - I don't know what to say, but...well...I do think that it would be great if you could - you know? Get in control of She-Hulk?" When Misato gave him a look of surprise, he gave a shy smile. "I mean...I know Asuka wouldn't agree, but I'd like it if we could - work together. And...I just think that it would be...great if you could do all that. You could be a real hero, and -!"

"Whoa, whoa! Hold on, Shinji!" Misato countered, holding up her hands in protest. "Me? A hero?" Giving a self-depreciating chuckle, she shook her head. "Shinji, I drink like a fish. I've forced you and the others to fight and risk getting killed since this war began. I joined NERV because I wanted revenge, not out of some sense of duty. I've saddled you with all of the chores at home, and more. Believe me when I say that I am the least heroic person on the face of the planet."

"Well...you fought to protect me. And you wanted to save everyone from the Rhino...and stuff like that," Shinji shyly protested. "And - that seems pretty heroic to me."

Misato blinked a few times at this, her surprise clear. But then she smiled warmly. "I don't think I'm anywhere near that noble, Shinji-kun. Or that I deserve to be treated like a hero," she solemnly admitted. "But still...thanks."

A moment later, Misato leaned in closer and gently planted her lips upon Shinji's own. And at first, he was surprised by the tender sensation.

But then Shinji found himself flashing back to before. To when She-Hulk had brought him to the mountains. To the same place Misato had brought him to after his first battle. To how the green giantess has taken him there and held him tight and cuddled him. And how he had spent time snuggled up with Misato and kissing her and enjoying the setting sun.

And as Misato broke the kiss and pulled away, Shinji saw and savored all of those memories. All the while he looked at the woman that was at the heart of them. And found himself looking at both of the two beings that had brought him such love and kindness.

Shinji's eyes saw Misato. But his mind's eye saw something else.

Within his mind, Shinji saw Misato's eyes flare a potent green. The purple-haired woman continuing to smile as her skin darkened and her muscles swelled mightily. Bones cracking and muscles bulging, Misato groaning huskily as her slender human frame gave way to something much larger. Her simple clothes stretching and straining before finally surrendering to the emerging beast-woman and exploding into tiny scraps of cloth. All the while Shinji saw himself undergoing a similar transformation. Eagerly shedding the trappings of humanity and his own clothing as he embraced the beast within. And then embraced Misato's own green self and -

"Shinji?" came Misato's voice. "Shinji, is something wrong?"

"Huh?" Shinji started, blinking a few times as he found himself snapped from the world of imagination. He was still human, as was Misato. And as he studied the purple-haired woman, he realized that she was looking at him with concern. "Oh, I...I'm sorry, Misato. I just...kinda spaced out." Giving a quick shake of his head to clear out the remainder of the images that had floated through his mind, he then focused on the flesh-and-blood woman before him. "So, uh...did you say something?"

Clearing her throat and giving Shinji a wry smirk, Misato replied, "I was just asking if you had to be anywhere right now?"

"Oh. Uh..." Shinji started, pausing to rapidly think it over. And while it was true that he had plans for Saturday...today was not Saturday. "Well, no. Why?"

"Because it's been a while since we've been able to just sit back and relax together. So I was thinking that it's high time we just spent some time, doing just that!" Misato declared with a slight smile. "So...why don't you go out there and tell the crew outside that they can get to work, setting up my new gym? And after they're done...we can kick back, microwave some popcorn, watch a movie, and just...enjoy ourselves?"

A Shinji thought about this, about doing something so simple with Misato, a smile slowly spread across his face. "Okay. I...I'd like that."

"So would I," Misato nodded. "Now go on and tell those bums to get to work! Because the sooner they get done and clear out, the sooner we can relax and enjoy our time together!"

"Okay, sure!" Shinji nodded before rising from his seat.


The rest of the day passed painfully fast as far as Misato was concerned. The work crew had successfully installed all of the gym equipment in the area that had been formerly used to test just how destructive She-Hulk was, and she and Shinji had sat back and enjoyed a movie, complete with soda and popcorn. After that, they decided to have an early dinner together. Just relaxing, enjoying nothing more than good food and each other's company.

As a result, it was far too soon that Shinji had to go. "I'm sorry, Misato," he apologized even as he moved to leave. "But...well, I do have stuff to take care of. And...well, Asuka will be expecting dinner."

"I know, I know. I've seen the results of her trying to cook," Misato muttered with a roll of her eyes. "Just - you take care, Shinji? Okay? If anything were to happen to you, I...I don't know what I'd do."

"I - okay," Shinji nodded even as he moved to hug her. Somewhat surprised by the normally meek boy's action, Misato soon recovered and returned his embrace. "I...I don't think I'll be able to come by tomorrow, but - I'll be sure to visit on Sunday. Okay?"

"Sure!" Misato smiled in response. "Just be sure to call ahead, okay? Given that I'm going to be starting my new exercise regime tomorrow, I might not be in the best of moods!"

"Okay," Shinji nodded, a tiny chuckle clinging to his words. And he clung to Misato for a brief time longer before starting towards the door. She moved to follow and watched as her ward opened the door to her gilded cage. Only to receive a surprise when the massive door slowly ground open. "Huh? Akagi-san?"

"Hello, you two," Ritsuko greeted them even as she entered, holding a tray laden with implements of torture that Misato immediately recognized. "I hope I'm not interrupting anything."

"Uh, no," Shinji replied even as the doctor entered the armored apartment. "I was...just heading back, and..."

"Ah, good," Ritsuko noted absently even as she prepped a syringe to do its dirty work. "I have to talk with Misato for a bit. As well as -"

"Practice being Dracula's understudy some more?! Dammit, Rits, just how much of my blood have you gotten out of me already?!" Misato crossly demanded.

"Not enough, I'm afraid," Ritsuko informed her. "Don't forget that we're gearing up for our big attempt at curing you. And the last thing we need is for anything to go wrong. Which means that we need every last scrap of data we can get on your physiology that we can get, as well as keep up to date on any changes and anomalies that might show up in your physiology."

Misato groaned in dismay, but before she could say anything, Shinji asked, "Changes? Is something happening to Misato?"

"Nothing overt," Ritsuko reported, sparing the boy a look. "However, we have detected a slight increase in gamma levels in her physiology. It's nothing critical, mind you," she quickly assured them. "But it's still something that we need to take into consideration as we prepare to siphon off the gamma in Misato's cellular structure."

"Uh...okay," Shinji uncertainly muttered, shifting about as he considered the matter. "So, uh...?"

As Shinji looked her way, as if asking permission to depart, Misato smiled and nodded towards the door. "Go on, Shinji-kun. I can handle losing a little blood." Then she shot the doctor a deadly look. "And if Rits gets out of line, well...I think we both know someone big and green who would have no problem setting her straight!"

"Misato, please don't even joke about that," Ritsuko pleaded, giving the purple-haired woman a weary look. "And Shinji -"

"I know. I'm leaving," Shinji nodded even as he moved through the doorway. But before he was fully outside, he again looked at Misato. "I'll...be back as soon as I have a chance. I promise."

"I know," Misato assured him with a slight smile. And so she proceeded to watch Shinji as he closed the door. And continued to remain where she was until the door has slowly ground shut behind him. Once it was finally shut, the purple-haired woman turned and faced her faux-blonde friend. "Alright, Rits. Which arm are you going to attack this time?"

"I'll let you decide that. Now sit down so I can get to work," Ritsuko countered. With a heavy groan, Misato shook her head before making her way towards the sofa.

"Let's just get this over with," Misato groused as she held out her left arm. "I want to get to bed and be ready for tomorrow, alright?"

"I know. You've got a busy day tomorrow, straining and pulling every muscle in your body and getting yourself sweaty and sore," Ritsuko snarked even as she prepped the arm to be tortured. "By the way, Misato...there's something I'd like to talk to you about."

"You mean other than the things that you've been lecturing me on already?" Misato wondered with a raised eyebrow.

"Actually, yes," Ritsuko replied even as she jabbed the needle into Misato's arm. Sucking in a pained hiss, the purple-haired woman averted her eyes. "It's about Shinji."

This got Misato's attention. "What about Shinji?"

"Well...technically, I should say it's about Shinji...and you," Ritsuko corrected herself. Removing the needle from Misato's arm, she took out the ampoule filled with blood and prepared to take another sample. "Now before you get any ideas, I'm not being nosy. But...well, I know how you and Shinji were before this happened. And...well, things seem to be changing between you two."

Suffering a slight pang, Misato asked, "What do you mean, ch- ouch!"

"Sorry," Ritsuko apologized, having jabbed another needle into Misato's arm. "Well...for example, there's what happened after the battle with the Rhino and Grey Gargoyle." When the purple-haired frowned in confusion, the doctor explained, "Misato, whatever else I am, I am not an idiot. In spite of the fact that there wasn't a trace of She-Hulk's signature, Shinji insisted that you hadn't changed back when I called him."

Groaning a bit at this, Misato shook her head and muttered, "Alright, look. Shinji, he said - he just didn't want to have me get taken back to NERV right away, alright?! That was - it was the first time I had been able to be outside since She-Hulk first showed up, and...!"

When Misato trailed off, Ritsuko nodded. "And he lied to me. He lied so that you and he could spend some time alone. With you completely naked."

Annoyed by this implication, Misato countered, "In case you've forgotten, Shinji didn't have a change of clothes for me at the time. And it was Greenie that made off with him! I didn't even know what had happened until I woke up!"

"I know, Misato. But you still went along with it when Shinji decided to lie." When Misato opened her mouth, the doctor held up her hand. "And let me remind you that Shinji actually lied to me. Lied. Now can you look me in the face and honestly tell me that that is the sort of thing that Shinji would do?"

Misato groaned as she tried to think of a suitable protest. "I - okay, so he's gotten more outgoing! And I'd like to think he's a bit more confident now!" she finally retorted. "Besides, it's like you said! He...he just was trying to help me! I was...upset about having to go back to NERV, and...well..."

"I understand that, Misato. I can't blame you for wanting to be out of here, at least for a while. And I'm not condemning Shinji for trying to help you in some way," Ritsuko quickly assured her. "However, I am...concerned about how things seeming to be going between you two."

Caught between concern and anger at Ritsuko's words, Misato asked, "And by that you mean...?"

"For instance...you have been spending a lot of time together. You've had dinners together, watched movies, that sort of thing. And before your mission against the 10th Angel, it was Shinji that you wanted to spend time with. Not Kaji. Not me. Shinji," Ritsuko pointed out. "Also, while it has been beneficial that She-Hulk responds so favorably to Shinji, the way she acts towards him...I could be wrong, but those weren't the actions of a mother figure. Or a guardian or anything else."

Now the concern and anger Misato felt increased and was joined by a dose of guilt. Anger at Ritsuko's unspoken accusation, concern at how this might affect both her and Shinji.

And guilt over the fact that Ritsuko's accusation was far from baseless.

Misato had been alone for a painfully long time. Burdened with the horrors that lived within her and the lingering pain from her relationship with her father, she had ultimately isolated herself from others. Her efforts to find companionship having all ended badly, eating away at her self-worth and driving her further towards the solace that was alcohol. And since her transformation into She-Hulk had been discovered and she had been forced to live in this place, that loneliness had eaten at her more and more. And as a result, she had become increasingly grateful and even dependent upon Shinji. And these had been slowly shifting into something more as time had gone by.

"Misato...I know this hasn't been easy for you," Ritsuko continued, giving her an even look. "But you have to remember that he's just a boy who's already been through a great deal. A teenager. And you're -"

"Believe me, Rits, I am well aware of the difference in our respective ages," Misato grumbled in response. "But - c'mon! I know better than to try and start - well, anything serious with him!"

"Maybe," Ritsuko replied in a non-committing manner. "But does She-Hulk know better?" While Misato was groaning in dismay, the faux-blonde added, "And for that matter...does Shinji know?"

Jumping somewhat, Misato fixed Ritsuko with a piercing glare. "And just what is that supposed to mean?"

"Misato, it's like I've already said. Shinji's been acting a lot more forward towards you," Ritsuko reminded her. "And as we've already established that She-Hulk...well, she hasn't been acting in a maternal fashion towards him."

"Rits, Greenie has the personality of a pile driver with brains to match! How can you tell what's going on in that thick, green skull?!" Misato demanded.

"I know that she went completely berserk when she thought Maya had killed him. And that she has no problem cuddling him or showing off her assets whenever she has the chance," Ritsuko stated. "And besides, even if she doesn't feel that way about Shinji - something I doubt - there's always the possibility that Shinji -"

"What? Might be interested in me - her - whatever - that way?!" Misato broke in, again caught between conflicting emotions. "Aw, don't be ridiculous, Rits!"

"Is it ridiculous?" Ritsuko wondered with a raised eyebrow. "I've seen Shinji's file, Misato. I know how bad things are between him and the Commander. And most of all, I've seen how much he's started standing up for you. Going out of his way for your sake. On top of that, he hasn't had much affection in his life. And now She-Hulk's on the scene. Giving him more affection than he's probably ever had in his entire life. And with how things have been changing between you two..." Giving a slight shrug, the doctor allowed this to sink in before continuing. "Besides, he's also a teenager. Growing up and dealing with all kinds of different urges and emotions. While being cuddled and hugged and more by both you and She-Hulk."

At this, Misato's conflicting emotions shifted tone. On the one hand, the idea of Shinji wasting his life on her after everything she had done...it was incomprehensible. And the idea that she deserved to have someone willing to do so was even more impossible.

But at the same time...after all of the years of loneliness and misery, after everything she had been struggling with both before and after her mutation...

Suddenly snapping herself back to the moment, Misato managed to force a derisive smile onto her face. "Aw, gimme a break, Rits!" she declared with a dismissive wave of her hand. "Shinji? Feelings for me? Is this a joke?!"

"I'm not joking, Misato," Ritsuko assured her in a steady voice. "I don't know if it's just a crush or guilt or - whatever it is. But whatever he's feeling, it's definitely moved beyond seeing you as a guardian."

"But - Rits, that's crazy!" Misato heatedly countered. "I mean - there's got to be plenty of girls his own age! Girls that -!"

"None of whom have fought for him the way She-Hulk has," Ritsuko pointed out. "Or that's treated him the way you have."

"But still - there's got to be someone else!" Misato insisted. "I mean - take Asuka, for instance! After all, they have the apartment all to themselves, plenty of time to get to know each other, to bond and -!"

"Wait, what?!" Ritsuko broke in, clearly surprised. "Asuka?! You mean you don't -?!" Then she cut herself off with a frown. "Oh, who am I kidding?! Of course he wouldn't tell you anything that might make you mad!"

"Make me - wait," Misato cut herself off, giving Ritsuko a piercing glare. "What are you saying, Rits? What didn't Shinji tell me?!" Ritsuko sucked in a deep breath, her expression making it clear that she deeply regretted opening her mouth in the first place. But after several seconds, the purple-haired woman rose up and grabbed the faux-blonde by the hem of her lab coat. "What's going on here?! Has anything happened?!"

"Now hold on, Misato! Just - calm down for a second and I'll explain!" Ritsuko pleaded of her. Then she shrank back a bit before adding, "Because I'd rather explain this to you and not She-Hulk!"

"Then explain quickly!" Misato ordered, feeling her pulse quicken. Her heart pounding a bit harder in her chest. And the beast within rattling at her cage, already fighting her way to the surface.

Pausing to suck in a deep breath, Ritsuko began with, "Things haven't been going well between Shinji and Asuka. Now I don't know the full details! But - well, from what Kaji told me, it seems that Asuka decided to assert herself with you down here."

At this, Ritsuko began to hurriedly explain what had been going on in Misato's absence. How she had been forcing Shinji to do everything on her behalf, making him do all her homework for her, and how she had punched him in the face at school when he had intentionally failed a homework assignment. "Now I guess that - Shinji, he knew that this would upset you, so - he didn't want to say anything! But -!"

"She...punched Shinji?!" Misato growled, her grip on Ritsuko's coat tightening. "She's been - gyaahh!"

There was a hideous crunching noise as Misato's spine swelled and pressed against the flesh of her back, muscles already swelling. Grunting in protest, she staggered backward and held up her hands to her face. Only for her eyes to widen as she watched the veins on her arms and hands swell with glowing green blood. And as she struggled, she felt her body swelling up beneath her meager garments. Her body giving way to the more massive She-Hulk.

"Aw, crap!" Ritsuko cried out even as she backed away. "Misato, you've got to - you can't transform! The sleeping gas, and - oh, shit! I have so much work to get done!"

But Misato couldn't make sense of Ritsuko's words. She was already locked in battle with her monstrous other. As she fell down on her side, the sounds of bones breaking and reforming, muscles bulging and clothing bursting apart filled her ears. And the angry roars of her savage alter ego filled her mind.

No - dammit, no! You can't help Shinji like that! Misato cried out even as the beast fought and clawed her way back up to the surface. The gas, you idiot! All you're gonna do is trigger the gas!

Asuka hurt Shinji! roared her bestial other. She-Hulk smash Asuka!

A fresh surge of growth punctuated this statement, causing to cry out in pain. Dammit, no! I can't - can't lose it like this! Misato cried out in her mind. I've got to get control! I was in control once! I've got to - Shinji! Get control for Shinji! For - for -!

At this, Misato's thoughts started breaking down. But as the simple words deteriorated and fell into nothingness, something else rose up. Images of the boy that was at the heart of her outrage. Images of him being injured, being assaulted, in danger. All the while she was trapped in her gilded cage, unable to do anything to stop it.

And as Misato flailed about, on the verge of succumbing to untold centuries of raw instinct and primal rage, she remembered being in a similar position the last time she changed. How the image of Shinji had provided her with an emotional lifeline. Something to hold onto, to remain in control. And so acting on sheer instinct, Misato focused on Shinji. But she didn't visualize him in danger.

Instead, Misato focused on other things, on precious memories. She forced herself to imagine the meal that she and Shinji had shared before her mission against the 10th Angel. She thought about the sheer relief she had felt when she had learned that he had not been killed by Maya. She recalled the time they had spent together watching the sun set upon Tokyo-3 after the battle with Rhino.

Misato gathered up these memories and drank deep of them. Memories of joy. Of comfort. Of...

"That's it, Misato! Just calm down and relax!" came Ritsuko's pleading voice. Starting at this, Misato blinked a few times, only now realizing that she had had her eyes screwed shut. And as her mind continued to clear, the bestial influence slowly retreating to where it had come from, she was able to take stock of her situation. She was lying on the floor with Ritsuko standing a far distance away, looking warily at her. There were several burst seams on her sweats, but they appeared to be salvageable. And most importantly, the green was fading from her skin. "Get control...please get control!"

"I...it's okay, Rits," Misato muttered, pausing to massage her forehead before struggling back to her feet. "My outfit might be worse for wear, but...I think I'm good."

"I'm glad. Because if you hadn't managed to stop changing when you had, I'd have either been stuck dealing with an angry, green-eyed monster with a penchant for smashing, or I'd have slept through the rest of the day and fallen even further behind on my work. Not sure which would be worse," Ritsuko noted with raised eyebrow. "Still...I have to admit to being surprised. This is the first time you've actually managed to stop transforming."

"Uh...yeah," Misato muttered as she continued to take stock of her situation. "Listen, uh...I'm sorry that -"

"You were upset about Shinji being hurt. I understand," Ritsuko nodded easily. "And just so you know, we've already made some arrangements to keep Asuka from pulling that again. Kaji's agreed to spend more time at the apartment, keeping an eye on things."

"The jerk should've been keeping an eye on things before!" Misato grumbled.

"I'll be sure to tell Kaji that you said that," Ritsuko assured her. "And if you'll excuse me, I have to get to work. There's still a lot that I need to get done before we can try curing you. And I also have to keep an eye on Maya."

"Huh? Oh, right, right," Misato nodded absently. "You take care, Rits."

"And you try and keep from going green and smashing all of these nice things that the Commander let you have," Ritsuko chided Misato as she made her way to the door.

Once Ritsuko was gone with Misato giving the doctor the one-fingered salute before she got out, the purple-haired woman heaved a heavy sigh. Dammit... she thought as she made her way over to the sofa and flopped down on it. This...didn't go well...

And as Misato lay there and thought, the worse it felt to her. And for two key reasons.

First and foremost was how near a thing her stopping the transformation had been. Misato had been a heartbeat away from completely transforming, her She-Hulk self completely taking over. And it had taken everything she had had just to avoid transforming. Which was a far cry from retaining control while in her She-Hulk state.

I knew that staying in control wouldn't be easy, Misato reminded herself with a heavy frown. Hell, a big reason why I was able to hang on was because of that tranquilizer Chiron hit me with! But still...I'd hoped that...

Again, Misato sighed. She had known in her heart that taming the beast within would not be a simple matter. But she was nonetheless sobered by this reminder.

However, this gave rise to another issue.

Could Rits be right about Shinji? That he might actually have...feelings for me? Misato wondered with a heavy frown.

On the one level, it seemed ludicrous. There were just so many reasons why they couldn't have such a relationship. She was fifteen years Shinji's senior, she had gone out of her way to dirty herself just to spite her deceased father, she drank too much, she sent him out in a gigantic biomechanical monstrosity to battle horrifying monsters just to feed her need for revenge, and that was all before she had started turning into an enormous green rage monster that had ripped apart half of the city.

But at the same time...Misato had to admit that Ritsuko had made a valid point. The way Shinji had been acting lately was a far cry from the boy that had submitted to everything to avoid more pain. He had started being more outgoing when he had befriended Toji and Kensuke, but his behaviors of late were far beyond that. Kissing Misato in her sleep, hugging her, spending all the time he had with her having dinner and watching movies and more.

Oh, god...if Rits is right, then -! Misato thought, only to cut her mind off and shake her head. But - how did I miss all of this?! How could I have not -?!

Again, Misato cut herself off, because she realized that...she knew precisely how she had managed to miss all of these signs. Because she had already been overwhelmed by her own circumstances. Because she had not been in steady contact with Shinji since her transformation had been discovered. And those times when she had been in contact with Shinji, it had not always been Misato herself that was interacting with the boy. And between her trying to deal with the circumstances of her transformation, what aspects of the Angel War that she could, and the other craziness that had been happening, her ability to pick up on things that didn't relate to keeping herself from falling apart or the war had suffered.

As Misato thought this, she placed her hand to her forehead and massaged the headache that was coming on. A headache made even worse by the point Ritsuko had raised; how She-Hulk viewed Shinji.

And then it got even worse when Misato wondered if She-Hulk's behaviors...were a reflection of her own feelings.

Oh, god...could I actually be falling in love with a fourteen-year-old boy?! Misato demanded of herself, unable to believe the words as they sounded in her own mind. Aw, shit, am I ever a mess...!


"Am I ever a mess..." Hikari muttered as she donned her costume, unable to shake the bad feeling she had as she prepared to depart for Kyoto. Preparing herself for her meeting with Hiroki Iesada, the man who had been in charge of security for the Jet Alone demonstration.

To say that her previous excursions as Spirit had gone badly would be an understatement. Hikari felt that she had been lucky to come out of her most recent battles alive. She had had her wings ripped out, had nearly been turned to stone, and more. And even though this mission should not involve any combat, she still couldn't shake the jitteriness she felt over everything.

But it's the only way. Kyoto's so far away, there's no way I could get from Tokyo-3 to there and back again without Daddy or anybody else realizing where I've gone. And an ex-security man is a lot more likely to talk to Spirit than an ordinary, average girl like Hikari Horaki, Hikari admitted as she put on her mask. Still...Shinji's going to be meeting with Toji's weird friends alone, and...if we're right and Gendo's created his own versions of me, then -

A ringing sound pierced the air, and Hikari very nearly jumped out of her skin. After several seconds, however, she realized that it was just the sound of her cell phone ringing. "Calm down, Hikari," she grumbled as she picked up the phone. "You've fought Angels; you can handle a stupid phone call." Pausing just long enough to check and see who was calling, she then smiled and flipped the phone on. "Hello, Shinji?"

"Hi, Horaki-chan," Shinji replied. "I'm...heading out now. And...I just wanted to check and see how you're doing."

Pausing to make sure that she didn't say anything that she ought not, Hikari replied, "Well, I'm just going out for a while." A beat passed before she added, "Listen, Shinji...things have been pretty nasty lately. And...are you sure you wouldn't like some company?"

"I - thanks, Horaki-chan," Shinji replied in an even manner. "But - I - I should be fine. And...just wanted to make sure that you're okay."

Heaving a deep sigh, Hikari replied, "I - I should be okay. Just...be sure to take care of yourself, okay."

"Okay. And - you take care as well," Shinji replied. "I'll see you around, Horaki-chan."

"Right. Seeya," Hikari replied before closing the phone. Heaving another sigh, she carefully opened her bedroom window. Pausing just long enough to make sure that there was no sign of prying eyes, she then slipped out and started creeping away from her house.

Aware that NERV could detect the energy she detected upon transforming, Hikari made sure to get as far away from her home before announcing, "I have wings."

An instant later, these words became reality. And Spirit soared off into the air, already heading towards Kyoto.


"Commander?" announced a nearby woman. One of several that now worked within the confines Gendo had claimed for himself. His sanctuary deep within Terminal Dogma. "The MAGI are registering a red/blue pattern. It's moving out of Tokyo-3."

"It's Spirit," Gendo declared without hesitation even as he looked down at his right hand. "Unusual. Up until now, she's only appeared in the event of an eminent threat. An Angel battle, She-Hulk..." Steepling his fingers before him, he intently studied the holographic window that was displaying the half-Angel girl's progress. "So for what reason could she have for showing herself now?"

A few seconds passed as Gendo contemplated the matter.

All the while another voice silently spoke within his mind.

"You're right; it doesn't matter why she's showing herself. What matters is taking advantage of it," Gendo soon declared. "Are any of the Tengu ready for battle?"

"They have all recovered from being drained by Captain Ibuki," the girl reported.

Pausing to consider the matter, Gendo then replied, "Deploy Tengu 01. Order her to terminate Spirit." A beat passed before he added, "Yes, I agree. Pitting one of my Genesis creations against Spirit in single combat will be most useful. We'll see how far experience and skill can carry someone against one of our creations. And if Spirit somehow survives the battle...I'm sure we'll find a way of...further exploiting her."


"There...that does it," Ritsuko mused as she eyed the monitors and equipment of the small lab in her office. "My new server is online and ready to go to work."

It had taken a brutal amount of work for Ritsuko to do so, as well as manipulating people she knew and exploiting those who could do what she needed of them under the air of top secret business, but she had been able to use the inspection of the MAGI to set up her own hidden partition within NERV's systems. A portion of the MAGI that was hers and hers alone.

A portion of Melchior. The only part of my mother that I could ever understand or respect, Ritsuko couldn't help but think. It's not ideal, but arranging partitions in all three MAGI would have taken a lot longer. And I need to get to work on this as soon as possible.

Heaving a deep breath, Ritsuko surveyed the work she had already done. She had already done extensive work on analyzing Misato's mutant DNA and mapping out Angelic genetics and how they could be applied to a human as part of her current duties. She had also ordered an analysis of the nanites from the 11th Angel, so that should be progressing soon. And with her current duties of trying to cure Misato and working with Maya, there was a great deal that she could do and experiment with, all under the blanket of trying to treat and help them.

Even some of what I'm doing now can be excused if someone were to find out about it, Ritsuko noted as she began setting everything in motion. Contingency plans if something happens to Maya, another cure for Misato if anything goes wrong when we actually make the attempt...hell, I can even tell somebody that I'm toying with the possibility of a cure because she asked about it!

This possibility was something that Ritsuko was considering exploring in the event her cure was a failure, as Misato had been correct in that a She-Hulk under her control would be an asset. But that was something that the faux-blonde wouldn't be able to help her with if she was dead. And so she had to make sure that she stayed alive as long as possible. And this project might be my only chance of staying alive and putting an end to this insanity! Then she frowned somewhat before adding, I just wish that I didn't have to risk using the MAGI at all for this.

Giving a self-depreciating smile, Ritsuko shook her head. If wishing did any actual good, she would have been out of this predicament a long time ago. And wishing certainly didn't change the fact that the MAGI were the most powerful computers in the entire country. They actually ran the Japanese government in addition to everything at NERV and more. And the brutal reality was that, if she tried using something like a home computer or anything of that nature for this, it would probably have a meltdown long before she could perfect a means of becoming a true Nephilim with power comparable to She-Hulk's.

And if there was one thing she could be sure of, it was that time was not on Ritsuko's side.

"Everything's in place," Ritsuko murmured aloud, her body quaking and heart pounding at the sensation of doing something she knew to be forbidden by NERV's lord and master. "The simulations are going, and I'll be able to update them as I learn more about Misato's mutation. Now...to begin." With that, she retrieved a small recorder and switched it on. "This is Dr. Ritsuko Akagi of NERV. I've decided to begin a journal regarding this new project which I have undertaken. I...I've always found it helpful to be able to speak about my projects. Whether it be with my cat Miko or...or Maya..."

Shuddering as she thought of the fate that had befallen her understudy, Ritsuko heaved a deep sigh before continuing. "There's a lot that - I don't dare say right now. A lot that I don't want to think about. But...this is something I have to do. This project, it...it might be my last chance. At both survival...and maybe even...redemption."

Heaving a deep sigh at this word, Ritsuko continued. "There's...definitely a chance that something might go wrong. So if anything...happens to me and this journal is found, then...I'm so sorry for...for everything that I've done. And that I've been a part of." Trying not to think about the potential risks involved in tampering with her own DNA and playing with Angelic genetics, the faux-blonde doctor studied the data before her. "As for this project...it is my hope to create within me a mutation similar to Misato's, but stable. All of the power, but none of the rampage or loss of control. To become a...a titan of sorts."

A beat passed as Ritsuko considered the information displayed in front of her before concluding, "And as such, from now on this project shall be referred to as...Project: Titania."


It was a bright and shiny day as Shinji made his way through Tokyo-3. His path taking him down a street that showed little to no activity. And as he did so, he couldn't help but feel on edge.

Shaking his Section 2 tails had been about as easy as always. Partly because that, as a small boy, he could go places that the adults couldn't fit through. But as a result, Shinji couldn't help but feel uneasy as he traveled through this area that had been all but abandoned.

Especially since...Misato isn't here... Shinji thought, recalling how much easier it was to be brave when you happened to have a nigh-indestructible beast-woman around who was perfectly happy to smash anyone and anything that you happened to want to be smashed. I - I mean...I wouldn't mind having Toji or someone else around, but...still...

Again, Shinji sighed, once again imagining himself as the one with the beast lying within him. He pictured some gang of muggers or thugs or worse lurking in the shadows, coming out to assail him. Getting in a few good licks, maybe even breaking something...only to get a very large and unpleasant surprise that -

Why do I keep imagining that?! Shinji thought, immediately shoving those images away. Why do I keep thinking about - do I really want to be like that?! To wind up turning into some...even after all the pain it's caused Misato?!

Shaking his head at his own stupidity, Shinji angled his eyes towards his own feet as they continued to carry him forward. But even as he did so, his mind continued to wander. Images of his own beast, his own Hulk, coming forth to destroy anything that might try and hurt him.

There was just something so damnably tantalizing about those images. The idea of something deep within him coming forth to fight the battles that he was too fearful or too weak to fight himself. The possibility of leaving behind all of his human fear and weakness, becoming something else. Something that could not be hurt, could not be stopped. Something that could right all of the wrongs that others would subject him to. Take revenge on those that had hurt him in the past, and make sure that he would not be hurt again.

Something brave and bold that was willing to do everything that Shinji himself dared not do. That was willing to...

Misato... Shinji frowned, thinking of both aspects of the purple-haired woman. The woman that had taken him and the creature that would emerge to fight on his behalf. And as he did, his thoughts broke down into confusion.

Shinji had seen Toji and Kensuke drooling over Misato, heard the crude remarks they made about what they would like to do with her. And his reaction time after time had been to roll his eyes in dismayed disgust. Not only was she older than any of them, but she was such a slob and acted more juvenile than any of them. And given his proclivity for neatness, that was very upsetting. In fact, there was a great deal that annoyed him about her in the beginning.

But now...

She accepted me. It's like Kensuke said; she was comfortable enough to be herself around me. Even now, she doesn't...hold things back from me. And ever since She-Hulk came out - Shinji thought, only to cut himself off as he thought about some of the things the bestial green woman did.

She-Hulk was Misato, but more to the point, she was what Misato kept under wraps. All of the things that she kept bottled up inside for whatever reason. Everything that was too tangled up in social norms and notions of what was and what wasn't accepted to be brought up to the surface. And among those things was...acceptance.

An unconditional acceptance of Shinji. A desire to protect and care for him. Things that didn't depend upon Shinji's status as an Eva pilot. Didn't revolve around him being an adult or handsome or anything of that nature.

An acceptance that Shinji had never known in his entire life. And the woman who gave him these things...

Am I...is that what it's like to...to fall in love with someone? Shinji found himself wondering, feeling his heartbeat pick up a bit. Am I...am falling I in love...with Misato?

This was something Shinji had considered off and on. And on the surface, such an idea seemed ludicrous, especially after all of the times that the 3rd Child had rolled his eyes at Toji and Kensuke drooling over someone twice their age. And while he wasn't well-versed in the social graces and so on, he knew that a relationship between him and Misato would be frowned upon at best, and at worst would be considered illegal.

But there was no denying what Shinji was feeling now. Both the physical attraction he felt towards Misato's different forms and how he was relating to them. The affection he had received, the way he felt he had to do whatever he could for both aspects of her, and how he felt increasingly drawn to be with them. These were all things that he had never felt before. And Shinji honestly couldn't imagine what else it could be.

And...if this is love...then is it Misato herself I'm in love with...or She-Hulk...or both? Shinji thought, wrestling with the duality of the person at the heart of his dilemma. I mean...Misato and I, we've had dinner and - well, we've kissed, and - but She-Hulk, she was the one who started - but Misato also brought me to her home - but - ugh, I'm such a mess...!

Bringing his head up to his forehead to massage the headache he was developing, Shinji sighed turned his focus to the matter at hand. He was supposed to go to an outdoor cafe that had gone out of business, one of the many causalities of the mass migration of people and businesses abandoning Tokyo-3. And it was there and only there that Mana would meet with him.

I wonder what this Mana is like, anyway? Shinji frowned thoughtfully. Knowing full well what it was like to lose one's family, to feel alone and powerless. I just hope that she really can help us...

With these thoughts and uncertainty hanging heavily over his head, Shinji continued forward. It wasn't long before he reached the former outdoor cafe. The cafe itself was out of business, and a quick check of the building made it clear that all things of value had long since been removed. However, the tables and several stools remained, all built into the sidewalk itself.

But no sign of Mana, Shinji noted, pausing to scan his surroundings. I don't even know what she looks like, and...how is she even going to meet with me? Toji said that she's a fugitive from NERV, so - wouldn't she be afraid of being caught?

Shinji frowned at this. Though he was aware that Mana's concerns were the reason they were meeting like this, he couldn't imagine someone in that position willingly venturing out of whatever safe haven she had made for herself. Not without being certain that she could do so without risk of being caught.

Maybe it will be like in the movies. And she's somehow...watching me from somewhere else? Shinji frowned in thought, thinking of some of the films he had watched with Misato since coming to Tokyo-3. And she's going to - what? Call me and send me someplace else? Or maybe - ?

Shinji was cut off when he felt something hard and metal clamp down over his mouth. His eyes going wide, he started to move. But before he could even think to stand up, something else wrapped about his arms and upper body. Something that was also cold and unyielding.

And to Shinji's shock, completely invisible.

What the - what's going on?! Shinji thought as he was hauled up off the chair. How -?!

There was a painful pricking in Shinji's arm. Followed shortly by a harsh, electronically distorted voice sounding, "Thanks for coming, Shinji Ikari!"

Wha-?! Huh?! Shinji thought, only to start feeling strange. Who...what...?

His mind clouding over, Shinji groggily realized that he had been drugged. His strength was fading and his body was growing unresponsive. All the while the speaker added, "Thanks to you...I'm finally going to get my chance to destroy NERV!"

Too groggy to feel any alarm at this, Shinji fell into unconsciousness.

Where a tiny, angry voice, lacking the power to act on its rage, snarled, Smash...


Author's Notes: I know it's been a painfully long time since I've updated this story. And I truly do apologize for not being more active. Life…has been hating on very hard these past few years. Those of you who have kept track of my journal on DeviantArt should know just how rough a time I've been having of it. Still, I'm working to get more productive and churn out more chapters for all of you to enjoy. I've got more done, and should have even more chapters up in the near future.

Also, as a reminder, Superwomen of Eva: Emerald Fury has its own TV Tropes page. And I hope you all will help update it now that I'm getting back in gear.

warrior of six blades chapter 3, Yeah, that bender had some nasty consequences. Though to be fair to Ritsuko and Kaji, it's not like they could have foreseen Misato turning into an enormous green rage monster. It won't be long before Misato learns the truth. Misato's inner Hulk is indeed reacting to Gendo's hand. And something that happens to be attached to it. I'm also glad that you liked how Misato handled the Jet Alone situation. I felt it was very much in character for her.

Dragonjek, the original Hulk is known for making certain that people aren't killed in his rampages. I thought it only fitting to continue that tradition with Misato here. Though I do admit that, if she had killed somebody, now would not be a good time for Ritsuko to let that little item slip. And yeah, Misato/She-Hulk's rampages have caused quite a bit of property damage. I will admit that Shinji and Misato will potentially have a problem when it comes to getting physical in their relationship, but that won't happen anytime soon. I have a plan in mind, so trust me on that. I do agree that Shinji's fantasies have some serious dark elements, and that there is the potential for some ugly consequences. But at the same time, I feel that something like that would be perfectly in character for him. He's been a victim for a very long time. He's locked himself into a victim mentality, just doing whatever he's told to avoid being hurt even more. All that hurt and suffering and anger is just being bottled up. I can't help but think that someone in that position would find having the powers of the Hulk would be very tempting. As for Asuka…I will admit that I have a low opinion of her. I realize that, yes, going through what happened with her mother, as well as her efforts to push everyone else away and be strong and independent have had consequences for her. But she is still a bully. She hurts and undercuts Shinji for her own benefit, and she does so intentionally and (from what I can tell) without remorse. I see no love in their relationship, none whatsoever. Many of Asuka's behaviors are symptomatic of malignant narcissism, and malignant narcissists are very dangerous.

MKanagawa, well…I won't say you're right about Gendo. And I won't say you're wrong. And don't worry, Maya will be returning as the Absorbing Woman in the not-too-distant future.

Zoku, it's something I'm toying with, simply because it seems in character for Shinji to desire such power. Not only would he become a lot harder to hurt, but the pain and anger he keeps suppressed would have an outlet of sorts. Whether it actually happens and when…that's for me to know and you to find out.

Guest, as you can see, the concerns about Shinji and Misato being in a relationship have been broached here in this chapter. Ritsuko discussed it with Misato, and both Misato and Shinji are and will be considering the ramifications of such feelings.

Panther-strife, uh…I'm not sure how that would work, to be honest…

Mike313, I thought I would try and do something different with the Bastard King in each of my stories. You can expect a comeback in the near future. Believe me, I'm sick of that debate as well. I think it's safe to say that we will never see eye-to-eye on Asuka. I think it's also say that I will never fathom what anybody sees in a malignant, bullying narcissist who treats everybody like dirt. As for the Brigade and everything else…brace yourself for a mix of Gambit Pileup and Xanatos Speed Chess.

Xardion, thanks. I did my best to make Hikari calm and reasonable and so on. And…well, it does sound like something out of a spy novel, now that you mention it.

Quathis, I'm glad you enjoyed that scene. As for Fuyutsuki, you'll be seeing his plans for the future. Hopefully, I can these creative juices flowing properly now.

Omake 1

"Ugh…there are days that I hate my life…" Orion muttered as he sat in the office of his studio. The bizarre spectacle of the Fourth Wall showing prominently in the window as he tried to play catch up on all of his work. "Trying to get my studio up and running full blast again, college, cleaning, the works…ugh! The last thing I
need is anything going wrong!"

An instant later, Orion found himself regretting his words. Because it was at that exact moment that someone started pounding on the door. "Orion, we need to talk!" came a distinctly female voice. "We've got a problem!"

Making a face at this, Orion groaned miserably. "Of course we've got a problem. I'm working on getting production going the way it should, I have a host of other projects that I need to take care of, I have college assignments due, so of course somebody has a problem that only I can solve!" Pausing to suppose that he should be grateful that whoever was knocking at his door instead of just barging in like she owned the place, he sighed and put aside his current project. "Who is it?"

"It's me, Ritsuko!" came the faux-blonde doctor. "Listen, you need to do something about Asuka!"

Orion was sorely tempted to say that he would love to do something about Asuka. Preferably something fatal. But deciding that he was too tired and fed up to go into a rant about the useless, abusive redhead, the fanfic writer sighed and nodded. "Alright, come in."

The door opened a moment later, revealing Ritsuko in her labcoat. A short distance behind her was Asuka. But when Orion sighted the redhead, his eyes widened in surprise.

"Wha-?!" Orion started, only to groan and place his hand to his forehead. "Okay, I know I'm going to regret asking this, but...why is Asuka dressed up as Titania?"

"Because I want to be the one who gets to kick Misato's ass!" Asuka declared, the redhead having already transformed into a muscle-bound Amazon. She was currently clad in the revealing purple outfit with spikes marking her sleeves and boots, and was running her hand through her lengthy red hair. "I am sick and tired of being outclassed in the power and fanservice departments by that old whore! I want to show everybody what a real woman looks like!"

His headache worsening, Orion muttered, "Asuka…no. Just no. Forget it. It's not happening. Ritsuko's going to be Titania in this story. Not you. End of story."

"But why?!" Asuka demanded. "Give me one reason why I can't play Titania in this! Just one good reason!"

"How about I give you three of them?" Orion easily countered as he began counting off of his fingers. "Reason one, nobody has any reason to give you superpowers in this story."

"They could use me as a test subject!" Asuka hotly retorted.

"Reason two," Orion continued, sticking up a second finger. "There have already been some big hints dropped that Ritsuko will become Titania in this story."

"A quick rewrite will fix that, no problem!" Asuka sneered in response.

"And reason three – and quite likely the best reason of all – is the fact that we've already established Maya as the Absorbing Woman in this story," Orion went on, extending a third finger. "Now I don't know if you know much about Marvel, but Absorbing Man and Titania have been established as a loving couple and have even gotten hitched. So tell me; what do you think is going to happen in regards to this story's Absorbing Woman and Titania?"

Asuka opened her mouth to counter…only for her eyes to widen in dismay. "Ugh, that's – that's disgusting!" she shrilled. "That's just catering to the drooling fanboys who get off on women making out!"

"Hey, it's not like this would be the first story that has Ritsuko and Maya ending up together," Orion protested in a bored manner. "So…do you still want to play Titania in this fic?"

Growling deep in her throat, Asuka didn't say anything to this. Instead she swung her angry gaze at Ritsuko and snarled, "And what about you?! What, don't you have anything to say about being turned into a lesbian for a bunch of drooling, slavering morons?!"

"Hey, it's like Orion said; it's hardly the first time this sort of thing has been done. And I don't see how Maya could be any worse in bed than Gendo." Then Ritsuko gave Asuka a knowing smirk and added, "Besides, it's not like Misato and I didn't…experiment back in college."

"Ugh! Too much info!" Asuka bleated out, placing her hands over her heads.

"Oh, don't act so innocent," Orion muttered with a roll of his eyes. "Or do you think I didn't find out about what happened with Mari down in one of the props rooms?"

Asuka once more opened her mouth to speak. Only for her eyes to widen in shock, then outrage. "Why – dammit, four-eyes!" the redhead roared as she turned on her heels and departed. "That was supposed to be a secret!"

Once Asuka had left, slamming the door behind her, Orion leaned back in his seat and sighed. "Well, that's one problem solved…"

Omake 2

Shinji frowned at this. Though he was aware that Mana's concerns were the reason they were meeting like this, he couldn't imagine someone in that position willingly venturing out of whatever safe haven she had made for herself. Not without being certain that she could do so without risk of being caught.

Maybe it will be like in the movies. And she's somehow...watching me from somewhere else? Shinji frowned in thought, thinking of some of the films he had watched with Misato since coming to Tokyo-3. And she's going to - what? Call me and send me someplace else? Or maybe - ?

Shinji was cut off when he felt something hard and metal clamp down over his mouth. His eyes going wide, he started to move. But before he could even think to stand up, something else wrapped about his arms and upper body. Something that was also cold and unyielding.

And to Shinji's shock, completely invisible.

What the - what's going on?! Shinji thought as he was hauled up off the chair. How -?!

"Just relax, Shinji!" that same voice continued even as he felt himself being dragged backward. "Because everything's ready!"


"Whoa…!" Shinji gasped as he suddenly found himself on a beach. The waves lapping gently at the sandy shores, the skies clear and clean. The squawks of seagulls in the distance, the gentle sound of the ocean. And as he looked nearby, there was a perfect beach setup. Include beach chairs, a portable barbecue, coolers with beverages, and everything else that could remotely be needed to throw a massive beach party. "I – you did all this?!"

"That's right!" Misato grinned. She was presently in her She-Hulk form, and wore only a sling bikini that just barely concealed enough for modesty's sake. "I decided that we should come out here to Okinawa! After all, you, Asuka, and Rei weren't able to go on that trip, remember?"

"You can be sure that I remember!" Asuka scowled, presently in her Ghost Rider form. "And I still say that it wasn't fair that we had to miss out on the fun!"

"Our duties come before personal pleasure," Rei noted, sheathed in silver and with her board at her side.

"And besides, fighting the Angels is both business and pleasure!" Mari chimed in with a wicked grin and her shield on her arm. "It's not like it matters. We get to come out here now! And without any of the gang from school, we can let it all hang out!"

"That's true," Ritsuko smirked, holding things such as sunglasses, a cold drink, and suntan lotion with her multiple spider-arms. "It is nice to be able to wear this kind of body outside of our costumes."

"Maybe, but Hikari gets to go twice!" Asuka growled demonically, narrowing her burning eyes at the winged girl. "How is that fair?!"

"Trust me, Asuka! I didn't have nearly as much time for fun and games as you might think I did!" Hikari quickly assured the demonic biker. "Remember, I had to play babysitter for Toji and Kensuke!"

"So I decided that it was long past time to make up for that trip!" Misato declared. "And, uh…sorry I sent Mana to round you up like that, Shinji-kun. You kinda forgot your cellphone, so…"

"Uh, that's okay, Misato," Shinji nodded even as he moved to sit down in the beach chair. "Just, uh…be sure to leave the cooking to…somebody else, okay?"

"Heh! Deal!" Misato smirked.

"Guess I'll handle the cooking, then," Hikari declared even as she fluttered her wings. "It's the least I can do to make up for being the one who got to go last time."

Making a sound in her throat, Asuka hesitated before muttering, "Yeah, okay. I…guess that works."

"Then it's settled! Let's kick back and have some fun!" Misato declared. Something Shinji was happy to agree with.