DECEMBER 2, 2015
8:43 PM
IN ORBIT OF THE MOON
NERV SATELLITE "NEW ORIGINS"
Currently, the Satellite can only see the ruined Unit-01 as it passes by it. The anticipated Russian craft is nowhere to be seen, so it is most likely somewhere on the other side of the Moon. Monitoring the Satellite is the Head of the Technology Department, Ritsuko Akagi.
"Still nothing at all for the Russian craft. Least Unit-01 is still in range of the satellite, guess that means the Russians are nowhere near it."
"Yeah. If they find it, who knows what they'll or we'll do. Is the "Reagan-Gorbachev" even ready yet?"
"It is about 80% complete. The commander expects it to be finished within 3 days."
"Hm, are you sure you can even fit it in that time-frame?"
"It's doable. I don't know how good its quality would be though."
"Yeah, true. Commander is always making you rush stuff."
"It is honest work in the end. The prototype was also rushed, and see where it ended up!"
"I guess you're right. Though, we should always be careful rushing stuff. See what happened to the Soviets?"
"Yeah, but the Soviet Union was technologically inferior. We are only able to do this due to the fact that technology makes it easier."
"Stuff like that can still happen, ya know. Technology is a major factor yes but the person doing the job is even more of a major factor."
"Are you calling me inept?"
"Not at all! I'm just saying, rushing things sometimes can be bad."
"I don't really have a choice."
"I know, but as head of the Tech Department, shouldn't you have a right to protest decisions?"
"Well, if it doesn't work for you, why would it work for me?"
"I'm sure you have more authority, since you carry this entire operation basically."
"You have a point."
"Exactly. So what are you sitting around for?"
"I need to monitor the satellite, obviously. Oh look, it detected the Russian craft."
"Wait, if we can see the Russians, doesn't that mean… HOLY SHIT!" Almost as if time and space was making fun of Misato, the footage being broadcast showed a bright light appearing before turning to static. The satellite lost all signal.
"What the hell?! MAGI, pull up the last few seconds of recording the satellite "New Origins" did!" To both Ritsuko and Misato's horror, it appears the satellite was shot down by a…Surface-to-Air missile. After learning it was a missile that shot it down, both of them were dumbfounded.
"They.. They shot it down? Why? How?"
"How would I know? This is not good at all. Why the hell did they even carry a whole missile to the Moon?"
"Well, CLEARLY they knew about the damn satellite! What the hell do we do now?"
"I don't know if the Rules of War even apply to space. The government will probably confront the Russians about it, if NERV lets it get out."
MOSCOW, 2:45 PM
APARTMENT BLOCK NO. 36
?
The hum from the TV was growing louder and louder, as the situation worsened. The Man had been panicking, thinking he was going to be found out eventually.
"Shit, shit, shit! I need to call Ikari!" To his relief, the Commander picked up almost immediately.
"The Russians have taken out the satellite. The madmen are parading it on TV."
"This is a rather… convoluted situation. I suggest we inform the Japanese Government."
"That would be the best option, but would we even stand a chance against Russia?"
"I'm certain we will." The call ended.
"Damn it, Ikari. You've ignited a powder keg that won't die down at all. Japan needs a miracle at this point."
2 MINUTES UNTIL START
CHAPTER 5: THE POWDER KEG
DECEMBER 3, 2015
10:24 AM
SOMEWHERE UNDER THE OCEAN
GENDO IKARI
"IKARI! You've doomed us ALL! What were you thinking?!"
"Calm down! Ikari did nothing to doom us. We did not expect the Russians to react this way."
"Well CLEARLY you and the rest should have some common sense!"
"02, be quiet! Ikari, we did indeed expect better from you, however, we did not anticipate a Russian response to this scale. We do not know what kind of repercussions this will have on Japan, or the world."
"I intend to confront the Japanese Government, but I do not have all of my confidence in them fixing it. We need a more… reliable… peacekeeper."
"What? Like Germany?"
"I was thinking of… someplace else."
"What place are you thinking of? Surely not the United States." Gendo gave Keel Lorenz a smirk. He was going to go where nobody else would.
"Ikari… You aren't suggesting we… consult them… right?" Gendo's smirk quickly faded, once he realised how alone Japan was, at least in terms of the Space Race. America could provide military support, however that would only be useful if a war actually started. NERV's only other option was… the European Space Agency.
"You cannot be serious! The Europeans won't listen to us at all!"
"They most likely will now, after the satellite incident. They are our only hope at this point."
"Ikari, are you absolutely sure about this?"
"I am certain we can speak to them. After all, they don't like Russia either."
"I guess we have no other option."
"I'm glad you agree. Let's get to work."
DECEMBER 3, 2015
11:29 AM, FRENCH TIME
PARIS, FRANCE
EUROPEAN SPACE AGENCY HEADQUARTERS
"You WHAT!?"
"Yes. We sent a satellite to the Moon and the Russians shot it down. Not our fault at all."
"Monsieur, I am afraid ze ESA does not know how to respond to even zat. I will have to consult ze French Government in regards to the military. Or maybe ze United States."
"We have already ruled out the United States."
"But Monsieur, ze United States would be ze best option, no?"
"Informing the United States would most likely cause a war. You know how warmongery they have been as of late."
"I agree, but shouldn't you still contact zem? Maybe try ze NASA."
"I doubt that would work, but if you insist, I'll consider it."
"Thank you Monsieur. I believe it will make our time, and yours, much easier."
"If you say so. The ESA is our only place to go for help, anyway."
"Zat is true, NASA is still an option, but as you said before a war may start. Best to keep an open mind, however. The US is still Japan's ally, remember?"
"That is true. I must leave now, anyway."
"Alright, Monsieur. I recommend just taking your time about zis."
"I know."
6 HOURS LATER
WASHINGTON, D.C
NASA HEADQUARTERS
"So, the Russians shot down Japanese owned property? This is MH 17 all over again…"
"Indeed. We saw the ESA before we came here, they said to consult NASA on this matter."
"So, here we are. Listen, uh, NASA has a few experimental items that might help you in a potential war, but I'm gonna be honest, It's best to consult the Government about this."
"We have already ruled that out. We cannot risk the thought of a war, especially after the President's recent warmongering acts."
"I'm sure the secretary of state can sort it out. She's a better negotiator than the ol' prez."
"Are you absolutely certain?"
"I am! Besides, we can help either way, war or not. The United States has it covered!"
"I will.. Accept your proposal."
"Great! Let me do the handiwork." Gendo's right hand man, Kozo Fuyutsuki, braced for what was to come. Hopefully the United States pulls this off.
A DAY LATER
MISATO KATSURAGI'S APARTMENT
SHINJI IKARI
"The United States Secretary of State is expected to arrive in Russia in about an hour. There they will discuss the Japanese Satellite incident, and whether or not Russia or Japan should take action. A Japanese delegate is expected to arrive in 15 minutes, also."
"More drivel on TV?"
"Yeah, I didn't even know NERV would let it go public. Insane that they even let the United States do the talking."
"Well, it worked in 1905, didn't it?"
"The world was much simpler back then."
"True."
2 HOURS LATER
"Negotiations with the Russian Federation have reportedly fallen through. The United States Secretary is currently en route to Japan to discuss matters of possible armed conflict with Russia. US spy planes flying along the borders of Russia have reportedly seen increased military movement. What will this mean for Japan?" Shinji knew exactly what it meant, and he put his head in his arms. Asuka had overheard the TV, and she was also mentally preparing to be faced with prolonged war.
At least Tokyo-III has good defense systems.
NERV
"Commander, have you seen the news?"
"I know already, Doctor Akagi. I have full confidence war will not break out."
"You better not jinx it, or Unit-01 is done for!"
"Speaking of, what is the status of the final "Reagan-Gorbachev" ship?"
"96% done sir, all we need is to refine the hydraulics and finish the control surfaces."
"Good. We mustn't let the Russians get their claws on Unit-01."
"I know that pretty well by now. If only we had a means of defence in NERV."
"I'm sure the SSDF will cover it."
"I suppose. We should really invest in weapons here."
"I'll consider your proposal. Anyways, we must get to work. Don't want to run behind schedule."
"Roger that, Commander." As soon as Akagi left the room, Fuyutsuki came into the Commander's office, looking a bit distressed.
"The United States Secretary arrived just minutes ago."
"She did? Let's hope they don't mess it up further than they already have."
"Agreed. A war will cripple us. Just like the last one…"
"Indeed."
30 MINUTES LATER
NERV HQ
"The United States and Japan have decided to begin preparations for a prolonged conflict. US reconnaissance has picked up further military movements by the Russian Armed Forces. It is expected the United States will only provide Japan with munitions and planes, while Japan will do all the fighting. May god help us all."
"So, It's decided, then."
"Indeed. The powder keg has exploded."
MISATO KATSURAGI'S APARTMENT
Shinji and Asuka stared at the TV in horror, as they learned of the prospect of potential war against Russia. Misato wouldn't be home for a while, so they only had themselves and their thoughts, plus the TV.
"I… can't believe it. DAMN IT! If only I told NERV about that Unit-01 defect! None of this would've happened!"
"Asuka! It is not your fault! It isn't anyone's fault but the Russians! Who knew they would shoot that satellite?"
"I DON'T KNOW! It's just… URGH! I am such an IDIOT!"
"Least I'm not an idiot, for once." Shinji let out a slight chuckle, before seeing Asuka's expression, instantly regretting his previous statement. "I was joking!"
"Look, Shinji. I just… I don't want you to get hurt. And this whole crisis might jeopardise this entire thing!"
"The hell are we even gonna do at NERV, anyway? Aren't we just space-walkers?"
"I assume NERV will place us under special protection, or the SSDF will make us child soldiers."
"I hope that doesn't happen." As soon as he said that, he heard the door open, and Misato came rushing in.
"KIDS! HAVE YOU SEEN THE NEWS!?"
"Of course we have! Everything is insane!"
"No, not that! Look at the TV right now!" The two instantly turned their heads to look at the TV, and both were mortified.
"We are.. Receiving reports that Russia has begun a direct mobilisation on our borders. The Government has responded by placing the Air, Naval and Ground forces on high alert. We have just received a message from the United States, saying that Russia will most likely invade within the next few days. Good lord."
"It's over, Isn't it?"
"N-no! Don't say it like that, Shinji!" To Misato's surprise, Asuka was trying to calm Shinji, while Misato stood there in shock and despair. Meanwhile, NERV was scrambling to prepare for armed conflict.
"Bring the Reagan-Gorbachev back into the VAB! Send it down to the safest place you can put it!"
"Roger that, Doctor Akagi! Bringing in the ship!" The loud whirrs of the rails carrying the platform of the over 200 ton vehicle produced an ungodly sound. Most did not care, however, as they were preparing to either live tomorrow or die today.
"Good! Prepare the Aerial Defence systems! Place fighters on the highest alert! Wait, where the HELL is Misato?"
"She left ages ago! I thought you knew about that!"
"No I did NOT! Get her back here now! Make her take the pilots with her too!"
"Ma'am, are you sure?"
"Yes, we must ensure the safety of the pilots! Now hurry it up!"
"On it, ma'am!"
MISATO KATSURAGI'S APARTMENT
"Crap, phone's ringing! Hello?"
"Captain, Doctor Akagi has ordered you back here, take the pilots with you."
"Eh? Why?"
"Not sure, just get them safely to the JSSDF Space Center, alright? Gotta go." Misato heard the commotion in the background, and immediately knew it was related to the war.
"Alright, kids. We better get to NERV. Get your stuff."
"What? Why?"
"Pretty sure we're gonna have to hunker down there until the war's over. However long that takes, anyway. What ya waitin' for?" Asuka and Shinji both let out a deep sigh, and began packing. Shinji took his most important weapon, his SDAT, and Asuka only clung to her clothes. With Misato's driving, they were at the JSSDF Space Center in only 5 minutes.
"Quick, you three! Get in the building!"
"We were just about to! The hell does Ritsuko need, anyway?"
"Hell if I know! She's waiting at the command centre!"
"Got it! Shinji, Asuka, keep up!" Misato sprinted toward the command centre, leaving Asuka and Shinji to try and catch up with them both carrying bags. Eventually, they managed to catch up.
"What's the plan, Rits?"
"The Children are ordered to stay here until further notice. They have already been assigned quarters. That goes for you too, Misato."
"Eh? How am I gonna get my stuff?"
"Movers are already on it. Here's where the Children will be staying, by the way." Reminiscent of their earlier sync training, both shouted in unison:
"EH? WE'RE IN THE SAME ROOM!?"
"You'll get used to it! Besides, it is war, isn't it?"
"Aw man!"
"Misato, your room is conveniently next to mine. And Kaji's…"
"Kaji? Where is he even?"
"Fleeing back to Japan."
"Oh right. Russia." Ritsuko silently nodded. "Speaking of, what even is the plan for that?"
"Well, all we know is war is definitely going to happen. Trouble is though, what will the Russians do first?"
"Good question."
2:13PM, MOSCOW TIME
OVER THE URALS
AEROFLOT FLIGHT 738
RYOJI KAJI
Kaji had been in Russia for around 2 months, but as the situation was heating up, he was ordered to return to Japan. He knew for sure he was being tracked, but for how long he would survive was the main question.
"Would you like anything to drink, sir?"
"Er, coffee, thanks."
"Coming right up!"
The flight would take 8 more hours to get to Japan, just in time to prepare for unforeseen consequences. Luckily for Kaji, he hadn't been shot dead. Yet.
JAPAN
UNDER THE OCEAN
GENDO IKARI
"IKARI! What have you DONE!? You have ruined ALL of our plans!"
"I believe I was the one who was recommended to consult the United States. I did not expect the situation to devolve this quickly."
"Well, you should've expected it, for god's sake! It's RUSSIA!"
"While you may have a point, again I did not expect Russia to invade Japan."
"This is 1905 all over again. Japan will be massacred within days if we don't get enough support."
"We have the United States backing us. There should be no problems."
"NO PROBLEMS!? Ikari, have you gone MAD!? The United States will prolong this war until the next decade!"
"Well, unless Russia uses their missiles."
"02, I am certain we have this situation handled. The JASSDF is far superior to the Russian Air Force, in terms of technology."
"The Russians are pushing out their new Su-35's, aren't they? What plane in the Japanese arsenal is the latest generation?"
"I believe we have the F-2. The fighter is more than capable of shooting down Russian fighters. Plus, the United States will supply us with their fighters as well."
"Alright, if so, then Japan might stand a chance. Or, more accurately, Tokyo-III."
"No turning back now, Ikari. The fate of Japan, or the world, is in your hands."
"Acknowledged." The monoliths disappeared, leaving Fuyutsuki and Ikari alone, as per usual.
""No turning back", huh? Guess this war will be unprecedented."
"Indeed."
A/N: New chapter, finally. Things are finally heating up! Anyways, thanks for reading as always, and have a good day.