"A computer based navigation system race machine…the Cyber Formula. It has taken F1's place as the pinnacle of motorsport in the 21st century. Bringing excitement to people all over the world…"
Hakone, Japan. March 27th 2003, 17:05 PM. The Ikari Estate.
It was a surprising view…to say the least. A woman with oil all over her face and hands standing next to an old Can Am car and working on getting it street legal. While her barely 4-year old son watched in awe standing next to a cradle in which his little sister was sleeping. The woman had short brown hair and inviting eyes, always having a smile on her face despite saying silent curses under her mouth.
That woman was Yui Ikari, outside her home a top engineer. A graduate in engineering and physics, and a CTO and set-to CEO of NERV. A company born out of spite. Despite her father's spite and pettiness towards not only his former employees at Toyota but also his competitors. She in the contrast believed more in friendly competition…unless that stopped her from building the best and fastest cars on the planet. Big reason why she decided to pull NERV out of F1. And judging by what was being leaked by FIA she was going to get her chance.
Yui wiped her forehead from all the sweat. Her "big" project that she had to pause due to advanced pregnancy with her second child, after which she dedicated most of her time to her kids. That being taking the NERV CM70B Can Am car and making it street legal to use on Japanese streets. The clone leaf symbol proudly sitting on the front. And now she made final adjustments to the Toyota 91E power plant. Which schematics were bought from Toyota after their Toyota 7 project closed down in 1970.
"Finally…it's done."-Yui said before her attention immediately shifted to her children. Most notably her first born. "Shinji, could you please come here?"
Shinji, being a good boy who always listened to his mommy waddled towards her. Yui immediately taking him into her arms.
"What is it mommy?"-Shinji asked, to which Yui pointed at the engine.
"Do you know what this is?"-Yui asked, to which the boy pondered for a second. Before turning his head. "Oh, I see. This is an engine, something that gives this very car the power to drive, you see. Cars need fuel, and when we pour it in and give it a spark. The car lights up to life."
Yui couldn't help but smile seeing amazement on her son's face before continuing.
"It's simple yet amazing, like magic. In the engine there are eight cylinders, all connected to a little stick called the crankshaft, fuel and air are sprayed into a little cave called the combustion chamber, before the crankshaft pushes the cylinders' up. The cylinder goes up squishing the fuel and air. A little wand called a sparkplug sets everything on fire, causing a small explosion."-Yui said replicating the gesture with her hands, to her son's amazement.
"It really is magic!"-Shinji happily said, earning a chuckle from Yui.
"In more ways than one my little angel."-Yui said ruffling her boy's hair. "And one day you will be able to drive the fastest cars on the planet, but for that you'll have to wait for your birthday."-She said to which her son only raised her eyebrow.
Hakone, Japan. June 8th 2004, 9:35 AM. NERV Japan's test track.
Yui, much like every good mother was a woman of her word. And so on his 4h birthday Shinji received his first go-kart and his first suit, helmet, suit, gloves and racing shoes. It was early morning in Hakone, and due to lack of any tests that day Yui had the entire track just to herself and her son.
"Alright Shinji, are you ready?"-Yui asked while adjusting Shinji's helmet.
"I think so…"-Shinji answered while putting on his gloves, both he and his mother were now looking at the first corner from the start/finish straight a sharp left turn. Yui only smiled before looking at the cart.
"Perfect."-She replied before bending down towards the cart, it was a tiny machine built for little kids. But it had enough power to be an FIA-licensed machine and allowed to partake in championship-grade events. Yui only twisted the small switch making the small 125cc engine spark to life, Yui's hand immediately moving to the brake pedal stopping the back wheels from spinning, her second hand working the gas pedal so that the cart wouldn't stall.
"Alrighty, get in."-She said making Shinji immediately jump inside the cart. And immediately a spark was set up in the little boy's head, his little gloved hands wrapping around the steering wheel and had to fight the urge of pressing the pedals under his feet.
Despite not being able to see her son's face Yui could feel his excitement, after all it ran in his blood. It happened to her when her father and late older brother set the same the same spark when she was a little girl. And it had to happen to Shinji's father as well, there was a reason why he ran away from home to become a racer, although a not so successful one.
"Listen Shinji, do you see this traffic cone I set?"-Yui asked pointing at the singular orange spot residing close to the corner's kerb. Shinji only nodded to his mother's words. "Good, I've set the cones where you are supposed to brake. The right pedal is for going forward, when you approach turns try to run as close to the edges as possible."
Yui's words only motivated him to immediately start, seeing Shinji's excitement made her take out a stop watch from her jacket's pocket.
"Alright, go!"-She said making Shinji immediately jolt off towards the first turn. Luckily for Yui's motherly instincts Shinji was a good listener and the first turn didn't end up in a crash or a spin. She was right, he had that in his blood…and it was shown by his time results, but there was still a room for improvement, and little imagination and following closely to the traditional racing line. So Yui reached out her hand signalling for Shinji to stop.
"What is it?"-Shinji asked before Yui signalled him to get out of the cart.
"You are doing really good Shinji, but you can do better."-Yui said before she took out a notebook and a pen, quickly drawing a drawing of a corner. "Look at this Shinji, what I asked you to do was following the obligatory racing line, you see. I've asked you to get close to the right corner, but your exits are still close to the corner, I want you to try this line, when leaving the corner try to get close to the opposing edge, when you reach the next corner. Try doing the same, ok?"
Shinji carefully studied what his mom said while eying the quick-made drawing.
"I'll try."-Shinji said showing a confident facial expression from beneath his helmet. Yui only nodded with a smile before gesturing Shinji to get back in the cart. Which he did and immediately drove away, it took a few laps but he was getting a hang of it. And much to Yui's delight, he stopped listening to her, finding his own line and own braking spots, and that was exactly what she was trying to project onto her son. With little advice, a simplified explanation of the basics. Shinji was developing the instinct, an instinct that would one day grant him the world championship.
So several laps went by, and Shinji's times were getting faster and faster. His driving getting bolder and imaginative. Exactly what Yui wanted her son to learn, eventually Yui brought Shinji back in, once again signalizing him to stop.
"Great job! Let's have a break shall we?"-Yui asked while Shinji struggled to take off his helmet, a sad expression on his face. Something that Yui noticed.
"What's wrong? You did a good job."-Yui said roughing her son's hair.
"I…stopped listening, I'm sorry Mommy."-Shinji said, making Yui laugh. Much to her boy's confusion before Yui regained control.
"You did exactly what I wanted you to learn. In driving, imagination is as important as skill. Having a dull, optimal straight line to follow will make you fast, but without experimentation, searching for different ways on how to be faster you will be a sitting duck for other drivers, that's why I am trying to put instinct in your head and get your head thinking on the track, with that you'll become the best driver in the world one day…if we keep practicing."-Yui said, causing her son to smile once again.
"That's the attitude I want to see. Come on, I'll show you places where you can improve."-Yui said picking her son's helmet. Despite only being a test driver due to her late brother's death in a WRC event and her father forbidding any driving a side from testing, she still thought she had enough skill on the track to teach her son, and enough experience doing some small racing stints to teach her boy overtaking.
She knew only one thing though, it would be a long way, a lot of days of practice. But it was something she knew she would want to do when she will deliver the company's heir, and will teach the same things to her daughter. And she would support her children on every step of their journey.
Hakone, Japan. October 4h 2006, 15:30 PM. NERV Japan's Test Track.
"I still can't believe you will actually go through with this."-A voice in English said as Yui, alongside NERV's second CTO doctor Naoko Akagi were making adjustments to their project, their joint project, a fellow engineer and an old college friend. Her blue eyes and blonde hair mixed with her foreign looks making her stand out from other people in the garage.
"Claire, what we're working on is the future…plus may I remind you that you jumped on to project immediately when I first called about it?"-Yui asked to which doctor Claire Fortran only sighed.
"I joined onto the project to help with NERV's Cyber Formula programme and helping you build a championship-winning car, I was not signing on working on something that only existed on paper as a theory you came up in college."-Claire said, causing Yui to jump out from the cockpit of their prototype. A car which resembled a traditional GT car only with six wheels in the front, similar to a Covini C6W. Painted in traditional NERV Japan's racing colours of purple, neon green and black. Sleek front bumper made as aero dynamic as possible. What was the thing that differed the car from its competitors was the cylindrical tube like shape going from the NERV's V10 engine platform, brought from NERV's Le Mans/IMSA endurance program. The prototype Absolute Terror Field generator, the technology that would one day power the Eva 01.
"To defend myself, it's a really good theory. A confirmed theory may I remind you."-Yui countered.
"Yes a confirmed theory, of a technology that's highly unstable both in theory and practically. May I remind you it was the reason why you and Kyoko called it "Absolute Terror"?"-Claire asked before pointing at six-year old Shinji and little three-year old Rei. "Look at your kids, are you really going to risk your own life to approve a theory that you can use the AT Field as power? Listen, we can try to use the Cyber System to run a simulation without a drive or even summon Katsuragi or Kaji or any other driver we have to drive i-"
"Claire, we won't learn anything if we only let the Cyber System spit out data rather than drive it, you know like a car…trust me, it's our design after all. And I know that if anything happened you would be there for my children, you're Shinji's godmother for a reason."-Yui said to which Claire only crossed her arms.
"Only because Kyoko was a self-proclaimed Atheist and didn't believe in baptising. And yes, it's our car…and we worked on it together. That's the reason why I'm worried. You know, we had crazy ideas in college. Six Wheelers, optimal cockpit layouts, but this…this is the peak of craziness."-Claire said, making Yui chuckle.
"Then don't be, any mistake made will be on me. After all, remember that saying we had in college?"-Yui asked.
"As long as there is Earth, sun and moon, everything will be ok."-both of them said at the same time in Japanese.
With that Yui then walked up towards her children, Shinji, being dressed in a racing jacket and holding sister on his lap. Yui couldn't be more proud of him. Not only because of his impressive accomplishments in cadet karting categories under her tutelage. Although with little "convincing" of the JAF to grant her son a competition license so early. But also of how well he took care of his little sister when either she or her husband were busy with their tasks. Gendo becoming the CEO of NERV after her late father gave him his blessing and her being the main CTO.
Yui quickly kissed Rei on her forehead before she looked onto Shinji.
"Mommy needs to do something really important right now. Auntie Claire will take care of you for now."-Yui said making Shinji nod in understanding. "She will take you to place where you can watch."
"Auntie seemed worried, is everything going to be ok?"-Shinji asked with concern in his voice. Yui only roughened Shinji's hair.
"Don't worry, after all I promised to help you with your racing career."-Yui said before she returned to the prototype just as Claire walked up towards the two children and picked up Rei from Shinji's lap.
"Let's go, ok?"-She asked in fluent Japanese reaching out her hand towards Shinji. Of course Shinji listened, Auntie Claire was one of the authority figures in his life, next to his Daddy and Auntie Kyoko.
"Yes."-Shinji said before jumping off from the chair. "Auntie Claire, are you sure Mommy will be ok?"
Claire couldn't help but feel her heart weighing her down when she listened to Shinji's words. Yes, she believed herself to be a great engineer, but in contrast to Yui's perception. Her "perfect" car was more utilitarian and standard regarding the choice of the power unit. But Yui was the CTO, she was only hired to help her, and so she did. After all what are friends for?
"I have trust in your Mom Shinji, now let's go."-Claire said leading the children out of the garage.
Yui put on her helmet, which was connected to the car's dashboard via a cable.
"Is everything ready?"-Yui asked looking at Naoko, the stern doctor only nodding in confirmation.
"Yes, the MAGI are calibrating your…system as we speak."-Naoko said. Despite her dislike of Yui, mostly because of her more wondrous approach to building race cars. That and Naoko having a crush on freshly elected CEO, but nobody had the guts to say anything. "CTO Ikari, I've heard Doctor Fortran's concerns. Are you sure to proceed to with the test drive?"
Yui only smiled before she slid down the visor of her helmet before beginning to put on her gloves.
"Naoko, what I'm doing is testing the future of NERV, whether it being NERV Japan, Europe or America. It's also something I want to give to Shinji when he is old enough..."-Yui replied, to which Naoko seeing as she couldn't change her boss's mind only complied. One thing she had to respect was that every innovation the Chief Technical Officer came up with was tested by herself. But as a parent, she couldn't understand why Yui would pick innovation rather than having her children grow up with a mother. But then again she did the same thing with her own daughter, currently an NERV intern, and it brought her to successful career.
"Fine, you have clearance to start-up."-Naoko said making Yui nod, before closing the passenger door. Yui did the same with the driver's door.
"Alright, AI synchro start. Begin download, activating the AT generator and activating ignition."-Yui said flipping few switches on the dashboard, before her finger then moving to the "IGNITION" button. The V10 roared to life and the nozzle in the back of the AT generator begun to spin. Small screens on the front HUD in front of the steering wheel showing the AT Field generation process was reaching 94%.
Not waiting any longer Yui adjusted her harness and waited for the clearance to start.
Claire lead the children to a secluded room in the pit road. In which there only we're two people. One was an older man with grey hair, dressed in a standard suit. The other only kept looking at the screen though behind his hands and glasses. His future trademark being the NERV clone leaf pin in his button hole.
"Doctor Fortran, I suppose everything Is ready?"-asked Kozo Fuyutsuki, a person who could be called a veteran. Joining NERV all the way back in the late 60s. Himself being born only a year after the second world war ended. One of the few who stuck around, despite his advanced age he kept a high position within the NERV group as a whole, even vouching for Gendo when Yui's father passed away and supported him in taking over the group.
"Yes, I also brought the kids, like she wanted."-Claire said, to which Gendo only nodded. Bringing up a seat for Shinji to sit on, with Claire pulling out a chair for herself as well. The screen was showing two POVs, one from the prototype's cockpit and the other from the numerous cameras set around the test track. And so Yui drove out from the pits, quickly setting pace on the track. It's layout being to test out all the cars NERV produced, whether being a GT car, a Le Mans prototype, a Formula Junior chassis, a Formula 3 chassis and maybe an Indy/CART chassis. Although that was more taken care off by NERV America.
A classic start/finish straight followed by a tight hairpin turn, then going into the chicane portion of the track made out of few tight turns. Following into what was arguably both Yui's and little Shinji's portion of the track, the large sweeper. A banked corner that allowed the prototype to visibly accelerate. It already reaching 312 kilometres per hour, leading into another technical section made out of various corners to test out the turning, acceleration, handling and breaking, after that a long straight allowing the car to accelerate before into another long almost oval like curve similar to the what could be one day found on the Fujioka circuit. A section added after NERV begun to invest into Cyber Formula. All wrapping up in another chicane series connecting with the start/finish straight.
Despite the increasing speeds as visibly shown by the telemetry shown on the large screen and sheer speed of the prototype itself. Yui's facial expression seemed to remain calm, her driving remaining as fluid and calculated as ever, all while she seemed to go faster and faster each passing lap. At least before reaching lap 14, when she began to slow down.
It made sense, she was supposed to do 20 laps, go in, look over the telemetry with both Claire and Naoko before going out to do another set of laps.
And then begun lap 15, nothing out of the ordinary at least in the beginning.
"It seems I'm experiencing probl-"-Yui Ikari never got to finish the sentence. Nobody that day would be sure what they saw on that screen. Especially not six-year old Shinji. Whether it was Yui's camera footage being abruptly cut.
Or the prototype smashing into the wall at 490 km/h before bursting into flames live. His father telling him to stay in one place before he and Fuyutsuki rushed from the room. Two things Shinji could remember would be Claire covering his eyes and pulling him close, barely letting him say anything. Another thing would be the sound, both from the cockpit camera and the outside camera. The shriek and later blazing inferno, one that would haunt him for the next 10 years.
Tokyo, Japan. November 23rd 2015, Tokyo Narita Airport. 15:30 pm.
Shinji's eyes went wide open. Immediately taking to his surroundings and calming down. He was still on the plane that was supposed to "take him home". The touchdown to the airport causing him to snap from his slumber.
He wiped sweat from his forehead, slowly taking a look around to see his seat neighbour reading a newspaper. Completely unbothered, and Shinji was glad for that. 'Damn, that nightmare again? I guess it makes sense…it's been more than a decade since I left Home.'-he thought reaching out for his travel bag.
"Ladies and gentlemen we've landed in Tokyo Narita. In the name of the captain and the crew I would like to thank you for using the services of Air Nihon, know that while taxing please keep seatbelts fastened and remain in your seats. You can turn off the airplane mode in your devices off. In a minute we will connect with the boarding bridge."-The voice from the planes PA system said, just as the seatbelts icon turned off Shinji grabbed his bag and suitcase before making his way towards the boarding bridge.
"Welcome back to Japan."-A border control official said to which Shinji nodded with a polite smile. Quickly walking through the border pass and making his way towards the arrivals terminal. Narita was a huge airport, far larger than most airports he visited. And even then he mostly relied on using his private helicopter throughout Europe, mostly from Nice back to Monaco and from Monaco to Nice. Travelling with T-RIDEN-T or partaking in events he had to show up either because of the company or his former team. Although some of them were fun, especially those where he could drive NERV's old F1 cars or race cars.
Being a great driver also meant having great directional awareness. And so after a quick jog he managed to locate the exit. Going through the door he expected the worst, a swarm of journalists not letting him leave. Luckily for him the only people he saw we're either business associates or just regular people holding signs for their loved ones.
Including the person who was waiting for him, holding a sign which said "Ikari Shinji" both in Kanji and regular text. 'That must my guy, or girl in this instance. Wait, do I know her from somewhere?'-he asked himself internally.
The woman had long purple hair and brown eyes. Dressed in a black dress complemented by a purple NERV jacket, what caught Shinji's attention was the cross that was hanging from her neck.
"I guess you are the chosen representative that my father sent."-Shinji immediately said.
"That would be me! I'm Misato Katsuragi."-Misato said reaching out her hand for Shinji to shake, him finally recognising who he was talking to.
"Wait, you won the 2011 24 Hours of Le Mans for NERV."-Shinji said, while not being interested in GT racing a side from an urge to one day partake in Le Mans. Even he knew that the person standing in front of him was the first woman to win that historic event, associated with NERV ever since being a young girl. Finding her footing in GT racing before being moved to prototypes.
"Yes yes, but that was a while ago. And I don't drive anymore, come on."-Misato said gesturing towards the exit door. 'I do hope that they didn't towed away my car…'-she thought to herself, remembering that she parked on the taxi spot. So she increased her pace, much to Shinji's confusion who hurdled his bags behind him. It didn't take them long to reach Misato's car, an old blue Alpine A310, one that at least in Shinji's eyes seemed to barely hang on. 'A chosen representative and doesn't have a company-issued car?'-he thought with a risen eyebrow seeing frantic Misato opening the trunk of her car, frantically gesturing for Shinji to throw in his bags and get inside the car. To which he complied.
With a jolt the Alpine's V6 engine roared to life and not wasting any more time Misato sped away, possibly breaking several traffic laws. After they reached the highway Shinji finally asked the question.
"So, do you know why I was prematurely fired and brought home?"-Shinji finally asked, causing Misato to look at him and turned her head.
"Sorry, but even if I wanted to tell you I can't unless Mister Ikari gives me clearance, company secrets and all. But all I can tell you is that you are needed."-Misato said causing Shinji to only turn away. Yes she was following her given instructions, but she still felt bad for him. After all they had time until march of next year to be fully prepared. Enough time for him to wrap up remaining races.
"But I gotta say, I had a chance to watch tv report of what you did in Macau. Gotta say it's impressive."-Misato then added, trying to keep the conversation flowing.
"Easy for someone like you to say it Miss Misato, after all you failed to qualify for 2010's Indy 500. Really, getting beaten by Danica Patrick?"-Shinji asked with a risen eyebrow, to which Misato only looked at him flabbergasted.
"Hey! Before then I only did like four CART races before trying my hand on the brickyard only because NERV America needed a temporary fill-in! It's a hard course. And a year after I won Le Mans, so I'm pretty sure I get let off the hook for that."-Misato defended herself, only making Shinji smirk.
"Yes…although a lot of the driving that day was done by Ryoji Ka-"-Shinji stopped himself seeing Misato's facial expression. After all he didn't to walk to Hakone by foot.
"Don't mention that man's name in front of me, arrogant, annoying, playboy. "Oh I won the JGTC and DTM.", and he gets to run NERV Europe's racing operations?"-Misato said in a tone that made Shinji connect all the dots. 'So that's what happens when you date someone within the same team? Good thing me and Mana aren't associated anymore.'-he thought with relief.
"I don't know, several times I've managed to catch him visiting Germany he seemed like a nice guy, and despite him used to driving GT cars and me driving in single seaters he still taught me a thing of two."-Shinji said unfolding his arms. 'Although I do wonder how Asuka is doing, when was the last time I even called her?'-he then thought to himself, despite what he had to say about her attitude. For years she was probably the closest thing he had to a teammate, sparring partner and a real friend.
"Well, you don't know the full picture."-Misato said with a silent scoff. "You know you are cute, but with an attitude like that it will be hard for you to find a girlfriend."
"Several cute French girls and few younger fans I met during touring with T-RIDEN-T would disagree."-Shinji countered, of course he was lying, but Mana granted him enough…confidence to seem like his bragging was real. "Oui Shinji! Oui Oui Oui! Tu es si grand!"
"Alright I get it! You go around town a lot and I don't need to know French to understand what you meant."-Misato said essentially ending the conversation, the rest of the drive to Hakone passed in relative silence. Shinji's attention more focused on the view he had from the window.
Compared to what he could see in Europe and his few visits in the United States, Japan seemed to be a whole different world. Everything seemed so industrial. Once again comparing to his silent estate on the mediterranean coast, with the morning view allowing him to enjoy coffee while looking out to the sea. Here it seemed complete different. He couldn't put a finger on it, but after more than a decade of spending most of his time abroad he felt like a foreigner in a country of his birth, main language and citizenship. His Japanese as well being rustier compared to being fluent in French, English and thanks mostly to Musashi, Asuka and necesity of operating with NERV Europe's employee's German.
The next hour seemed to pass in a bliss just as they approaching Hakone. The city in theory and practically "built by NERV". After his grandfather and his group of dissatisfied engineers left Toyota and their steady jobs to found NERV, they searched for a decent place to start their business, and luck landed on Hakone. Now thanks to NERV it was a breathing metropolis, not on the level of Tokyo or Hamamatsu but still quite decent city in size built in a way to not collide with nature. A side from lake Ashi and Hot Springs, Hakone's third biggest trademark also came from NERV, and it was visible even kilometres from where Shinji and Misato were.
A large pyramid-like building that seemed like it was made out of glass. NERV Japan and NERV Itself main headquarters, an amazing technical marvel when it was handed to use in the late nineties. Its main priority was to hold all of NERV's office personnel alongside being used as a tourist attraction, that part being the reason why there was a large company museum on the lower floors. Being connected with NERV's main plants made it the most impressive and advanced car plant in the country. Despite building mostly cars meant for the track and array of sports cars.
It didn't take long before the Alpine reached its destination, to Shinji, it finally meant he was close to receiving answers. And for Misato, she could only hope he would say yes. After all, it was a car that was tailored exclusively for him. All the work they had planned out. Yet according to the CEO the answer was already obvious.
Misato parked her car next to the front door. Just as it stopped Shinji immediately walked out of the car, walking through the large front door. Misato only sighed before she herself got out from the Alpine. Shinji felt immediately overwhelmed seeing the amount of people passing through the massive ground floor. He locked his eyes on his target, the reception.
"Sorry, scuse me, coming though."-Shinji said walking through the office workers before finding himself standing in front of the reception desk looking at a nice receptionist.
"Excuse me, I'm here to meet the CEO, supposedly."-Shinji said, causing the receptionist to turn towards him with awe.
"Ok, on what surname?"-The woman asked surprised before looking at her computer.
"Uhm, Ikari? I'm his son, supposedly. And I'm here to meet up with him."-Shinji explained, to which the woman only blinked a few times before checking.
"Yes, in fact mister…Shinji Ikari. You are on top of priority meetings for today."-She explained earning a nod from Shinji.
"Right, thank you…which way is the office?"-Shinji asked, to which the receptionist pointed at the glass elevator that Misato stood next to.
"Aha, ok. Thanks."-Shinji said before walking away from the desk.
"You know you could've just waited for me?"-Misato asked, making Shinji only sigh.
"It's my first time in this building in almost 10 years so of course I won't remember that much. That and I'm trying to get on it as fast as possible, meet up with my sister and roll from there."-Shinji said as both of them got inside the elevator.
"You really don't know why you were called back? Didn't your Dad give you any hints?"-Misato asked.
"Aside from talking about my career's future nothing. I only hope that he brought me in regarding a job or I'm going back to Europe on the first plane going to France."-Shinji said, to which Misato only nodded worried, internally crossing her fingers hoping he would say yes.
The elevator tinged just as Shinji and Misato reached their destination.
"This is where you have to go alone, CEO wants this to be a one-on-one talk."-Misato said just as they stepped out of the elevator. Founding themselves standing in front of large door. 'Of course he would have his office on the highest floor.'-Shinji thought to himself while taking a deep breath.
"Fine then, thanks for picking me up Miss Misato."-Shinji said with a smile.
"Just call me Misato, the addition of miss makes me feel old."-Misato said. "One day we could work together, so it's better to cross that bridge at this early."
Shinji only raised his eyebrow in confusion before walking through the door. Finding a surprisingly long office surrounded by glass windows showing the natural beauty of the region and Hakone's clear skyline. The office itself was fairly empty, no actual lighting made it seem malicious. The only thing standing there was a large marble desk, or at least to Shinji it seemed like marble. With a silhouette sitting behind it.
Shinji's eyes immediately locked on the desk and the person sitting behind it. The false Ikari, the king on top his pyramid and many different names he got over the years. Gendo Ikari, the CEO of NERV, Shinji and Rei's father. With no words Shinji simply walked up to the desk, pulled out the chair set for him and sat down.
"Hey Dad."-Shinji begun, starting an awkward period of silence. 'Really? Was this the best you could come up with?'-he then thought internally.
"Hello son, first thing I wanted to say is that I want to apologise for…drastic measures in order to bring you here."-Gendo said, causing Shinji to look at him flabbergasted.
"Oh, I didn't find making me a persona-non-grata to most F1 teams, getting me fired and cutting me off from being able to sit and begin negotiations that bad."-Shinji said with obvious sarcasm.
"Shinji, be honest with me. Would you really accept to sit down and talk without drastic measures?"-Gendo asked, a smirk forming behind his hands.
"Point taken, so, what's the reason for ruining my plans? Or you'll kick me out again like when Mom died?"-Shinji asked, venom slowly but steadily travelling through his throat.
"Let us then talk, I need a driver."-Gendo bluntly stated making Shinji freeze for a couple of seconds.
"Really? And why exactly me, plus give me a reason why should I accept?"-Shinji asked.
"Because what I have been working on is way too advanced and sophisticated to put it in hands of someone of inferior skill."-Gendo said causing Shinji to raise his eyebrow in surprise. "In short, because no one else but you can show its full potential. And what I saw in Macau proves it."
Shinji once again froze. That one time his father actually showed up to see him drive and didn't even talk to him? Even Musashi's dad showed up a couple of times when they were in Austria and Germany.
"What exactly do you want me for? LMPs, Champ Cars?"-Shinji finally asked, after all if he was going to say yes then some clearance would be nice.
Gendo only straightened himself before clapping his hands. In a blink of an eye blinds appeared to cover the large windows. Followed by a projector retracting from the ceiling.
"Turn around."-Gendo instructed, Shinji only complied before the projector played the footage. Immediately causing Shinji to gasp.
It was the final race of the 10th Cyber Formula GPX, or the 2015 season in "normal language". The Japanese Grand Prix's finale on the Fujioka Circuit. The three-way battle between Hayato Kazami, Naoki Shinjyo and Karl Richter von Randoll. Aside from fear Shinji could only feel only one other thing while watching the footage, and that was an insult from his father.
"I know you are ignorant but I didn't expect you to be that ignorant, the answer is no."-Shinji said as he got up from his chair and prepare to leave.
"You're saying you wouldn't be quick enough?"-Gendo asked, knowing well it would put a needle right into Shinji's pride. And he was right because Shinji immediately turned back towards him.
"I've raced against Shinjyo; from experience I can say that I could beat him. From what I know Randoll is a spoiled brat and Kazami couldn't even drive a car before getting the Asurada."-Shinji confidently replied. "What makes me say no is that you want me to drive in a series that indirectly killed your wife, the mother of your children. And you made me come here, despite me stating to the press that I won't even consider it."
"Your mother's mission was to build a perfect car; do you think that if she survived the crash. Would she stopped the development?"-Gendo asked, making Shinji once again sit down in front of him.
"Of course not, but the key word is "If". She's dead, and I was there to watch it. After that you kicked me out to live in Europe."-Shinji said nervously stomping his foot.
"It was necessary. I wanted to make Yui's dreams come true, she wished for you to become the best driver on the planet. It came true, and now I want you to drive in her perfect car."-Gendo replied, making Shinji even more flabbergasted.
Shinji only chuckled before looking seriously at his father.
"Necessary huh? You know, you were right. It did help me, but other than resources, cars, teams and whole lawyer teams there was one thing I needed, an actual Dad. Hell even sending me to live with Aunt Kyoko in Germany or even send me to England and live with Auntie Claire, you know my Godmother?"-Shinji said before taking another glance at the footage before turning back. "And even if I said yes, there seem to be holes in your perfect vision. First is the premise of the series itself, I can't drive on dirt. I'm a circuit racer all my life. Secondly and most importantly, the Super Asurada is easily the most advanced car on the planet, bias aside. With us being so far behind it will take years, several seasons of trial and error to build a car and a team that could rival it, despite the larger budget."
Gendo chuckled as well, clapping his hands making the projector and blinds retract.
"I couldn't afford you being distracted. You think about holes, then let me fill them for you."-Gendo said before with a clap a small keyboard retracted from the desk. Pressing a button, a small hologram projector appeared from the centre of the desk. Projecting a file with highlighted text. "FISA's motorsport regulation changes for 2016, page 136. Section one of FICCY's Cyber Formula regulations."
Shinji bended himself forward to clearly see the text.
"From the 2016 season onwards all off-road courses are hereby removed from the calendar due to safety concerns and flow of unqualified drivers partaking in the series, all Evolution models are hereby required to remove all off-road equipment."-Shinji recited. "I guess budget is not only hitting Sugo."
"You have also stated your concern regarding us being behind, remember Shinji. NERV is never behind. Building a hyper-advanced car for new regulations isn't a problem. It's what makes it special that gives it the edge."-Gendo said pressing another button, showing the blueprints of a new AT Field generator.
Shinji, seeing the blueprints almost fell off from his chair. 'Technology that's highly unstable both in theory and practically.'-He immediately recited what he could remember hear what Claire was saying.
"I…I thought that programme was officially closed. H-How!?"-Shinji asked shocked seeing his father's poker face.
"Officially yes, as did the Cyber Formula programme. In reality the board, and by the board I mean myself and few close associates decided to keep the programme under wraps and continued the work alongside our Research and Development teams in Germany and the States with few key personnel."-Gendo stated before bringing up the blueprints of the old prototype generator. "Do you know why the prototype malfunctioned?"
Shinji only looked down before answering.
"Auntie Claire told me, it turns out the additional power of the generator overwhelmed the car's electronics. Dad, any car with that system is a death machine. The RA302 of modern cars so to speak."-Shinji said, not because of spite, but more out of fear. He was crazy enough to get into a tiny coffin with tires and highly octane fuel. But one without the 100% kill ratio, in contrasting to a car with an eldritch power source attached to the engine.
"Do you know why it happened?"-Gendo asked still frozen Shinji. He only pressed another set of buttons bringing up another blueprint. "It's because our approach was wrong, what your Mother and Doctor Fortran built was an amazing car, the problem was that it utilised too much AT energy. Over the last few years, we discovered that splitting the flow between more generators will grant a more stable energy charge, enough for the car to essentially be a hybrid."
Just as Gendo finished the last sentence Shinji finally unfroze. 'Wow, despite everything…he went though. That's impressive for someone like you Dad.'-he thought before giving him a piece of his mind.
"Fine, you may have solved the power plant. But it still not worth a damn thing without a chassis, and even less without a team."-Shinji said, still hell-bent on declining.
"Like I said before, building an advanced car isn't a problem. Especially if you have experience from building chassis and LMPs."-Gendo said before bringing up another hologram.
It was the first time Shinji laid eyes upon her, despite a hologram. It already caught his imagination and didn't feel like letting It go. Gendo saw that, and immediately smirked.
"Eight-wheel drive, advanced aero mode. A NERV-built turbo-charged V10 connected with an Absolute Terror Field Generator as an additional power plant. The most advanced car on the planet. Super Asurada could only push 605 kilometres per hour, according to our MAGI simulations, the Eva 01 can easily achieve 670 with boost. We are easily 5 years ahead of Sugo, AOI, Union Saver or anyone else for that matter. A NERV car though and though"-Gendo said before Shinji once again snapped back.
"Great simulation, but what happens on the computer screen stays on the computer screen and not on the track."-Shinji countered. "Ferrari hoaxed everyone with a mock-up of an 8-wheel drive car, we would only have few months for something that needs at least two years of development."
"Who said anything assembling the car?"-Gendo asked, causing Shinji to raise his eyebrow in confusion. "The Evangelion 01 is already built, and waiting for you at our test course for you to test drive it. Regarding the personnel, I've asked Team Principal Katsuragi and Vice-CTO Akagi to assemble a team of trusted and tested experts. The one key thing remaining was the driver, and like I said before. That project is way too advanced and sophisticated to put it in hands of someone of inferior skill."
Gendo looked upon his son, who seemed to slowly analyse what he was being offered.
"Let me help you with your decision. Miss Katsuragi will take you to the track so you can test drive it. After which you will come back here a make your choice, will that suffice?"-Gendo asked, after which another long period of silence proceeded between the father and son.
"Fine, I'll drive that car. But decision is on me."-Shinji finally stated, even if he would say no. The prospect of driving the most advanced car on the planet wasn't something to pass on. Especially how crazy the idea sounded. The grip generated by eight wheels, almost no rear wings, seemingly replaced by pylons. And the sharp yet seemingly sleek edges, it seemed to scream at him.
"Excellent, but before you go. I wanted to give you a little gift, consider it a welcome home gift."-Gendo said reaching for a small black box and handing it to Shinji. Him not wasting any time to open. Only to be surprised by the gift itself.
It was a watch, specifically a black Rolex Daytona. But there was something different to it's just as expensive counterparts.
"A watch?"-Shinji asked looking closer. He could see that all words under the crystal were written in purple while all hour markers, minute track, central and small seconds, dial and date were green. With the clone leaf NERV symbol residing in the centre of the hands.
"A Rolex Daytona NERV edition, supposed to release after our first Cyber Formula season. Every man should wear a watch. What you're holding is a prototype, now put it on."-Gendo instructed, to which Shinji complied.
"Right, thanks."-Shinji said before getting up and walking away, making his way to the exit. Not noticing Gendo's smirk.
Misato stood by the door nervous. Here all her work was decided by an opinion of a 16-year old. One very rebellious and seemingly angst 16-year old.
Her heavy heart stopped for a second as she saw the door open, from behind which Shinji re-emerged.
"So, how did the meeting went?"-She asked with the most nervous smile Shinji had seen on a person.
"Please just take me to the track."-Shinji bluntly stated stopping Misato in her tracks. Neither of them spoke a word as Shinji and Misato drove towards the test course. Set few kilometres away from the core office and factory complex.
"So, this is why you weren't supposed to say anything? So that I wouldn't try to jump out of the car and run away?"-Shinji suddenly asked, causing Misato to flinch before shifting her gaze to Shinji.
"Well, it was mostly CEO's orders. But receiving a pile-up of material regarding you made me shut my mouth up."-Misato stated, earning a nod from Shinji.
"Yeah, if you said "hi! I'm here to put you in a Cyber Formula team!" I would've bought the first to Nice immediately."-Shinji said earning a chuckle from Misato.
"Why made you change your mind?"-She then asked shifting the mood.
"I didn't make my stance yet, but it would be a waste of mine, yours and your whole team's effort and millions that were put into R&D over the last 10 years. Besides, from the perspective of a viewer the idea for a car like this sounds so ridiculous I won't believe until I see it and actually drive it. Even Super Asurada has six wheels and not eight. And apparently convincing the main engineer to utilise six wheels was a long battle."-Shinji said with a chuckle, in few times he was in London he had the chance to talk with his Godmother about her work, most recently her work at Sugo and helping Hiroyuki Kazami.
"How do you know that?"-Misato asked, to which Shinji unfolded his arms.
"The Asurada's designer is my Godmother. We often talk on the phone."-Shinji replied.
The rest of the trip remained silent, each of them resorting for mental preparation. Shinji getting himself ready mentally for getting in the car and Misato awaiting his decision.
"I don't get it."-A girl technician with short brown hair and brown eyes said looking at the screen of her laptop. "There appears to be the bug in the Cyber System, I can't get It booted up."
Another technician, a visibly older and experienced woman walked up towards her. She was easily closer to Misato's age. Short visibly dyed blonde hair matched by sharp green eyes and a small mole near her left eye. Complemented by pink diamond earrings.
"No Maya, it's just the system's conscience is currently sleeping. It appears it's waiting for the driver."-NERV's Vice-CTO Ritsuko Akagi said before taking out a pack of cigarettes and a lighter from her jacket.
Another technician, a man with shoulder length brown hair then turned towards the two women.
"And when can we expect that he will arrive? Do we even know if he says yes?"-Shigeru Aoba asked. To which another technician, another man with short black hair and glasses turned towards him.
"He's probably negotiating with CEO Ikari; after all nobody wants to dedicate themselves to such a project for free."-Makoto Hyuga replied just as the back door to the garage opened. Revealing Misato and Shinji, who held his travel bag which contained his racing suit and underwear.
"Uhm, hello. Team this is Shinji Ikari, he will, maybe will be our driver. Shinji this is-Shinji?"-Misato paused herself as she watched him carefully approach the car. Even without paint and only being in black and white, it looked beautiful to Shinji's eyes. Standing on its pit jumping jacks. Seemingly waiting for its driver.
"Hello there…"-he said out loud as his fingers made contact with the carbon fibre of the monocoque.
Shinji didn't even notice his watch lighting up, causing the car's dashboard to light up as well.
"Hello Shinji."-A voice that didn't echo in his head for a decade spoke up from the car's cockpit.
Shinji frantically turned towards Misato, seemingly hoping to receiving any answers for why this Cyber System sounded exactly like his late mother.
"Uhm, hello?"-Shinji muttered out much to the Cyber System's delight, or at least that's what Maya registered on her screen.
"I am SynchAI. Evangelion 01's resident Cyber System and your partner. It will be a pleasure working with you. Don't worry I already scanned though your body when you put on that watch so the car's systems in the cockpit will only answer to you. I'll only need scans of your irises and finger prints and we are good to go. "-SynchAI said, causing Shinji to look at his watch and then at the car. 'Why does it sound exactly like Mom!? Alright, stay calm. You came her to drive the car.'-he thought before nodding.
"I understand, SynchAI."-He begrudgingly said. Misato seeing how confusing the situation was only placed her arm on Shinji's shoulder.
"Anyways, this is Shinji Ikari. Shinji, this is the core portion of our team. The blonde over there is Ritsuko Akagi. The Vice-CTO of the company, helped develop the SynchAI cyber system and main designer of Eva 01. The cutie over there is Maya Ibuki, Ritsuko's assistant and co-developer of the new Eva 01. Those gentlemen over there are Makoto Hyuga and Shigeru Aoba. Our main chief mechanics and engineers."-Misato explained as all of the adults looked at the young driver.
"Yes, it's nice to meet you."-Shinji said shaking hands with Ritsuko.
"The changing room is over there; we will boot up the car and you can go in five minutes."-Ritsuko said, making Shinji nod before he walked away grabbing his bag. "Alright everyone, let's start the test."
Immediately the small five-person group got to work. All while Shinji put on his old T-RIDEN-T racing suit over his nomex underwear. In less than specified five minutes he walked into the garage. His helmet already on and holding his gloves. Not wasting time, he walked by the Eva's cockpit. Taking a deep breath before stepping in.
His first thought of the cockpit was how despite feeling small felt surprisingly comfortable. His eyes then carefully analysed everything residing in front of him. Yes, the car was definitely built according to his mother's notes. Which were definitely made with help from Claire. As the "perfect optimal layout" was replicate one to one.
In the front there resided a steering wheel on a usual steering column. It lacked any spokes, but just as Shinji placed his hands onto it he could feel triggers underneath his fingers. 'Those must be the shifters, I hope Auntie won't learn of this, otherwise we would have to argue about patents.'-he thought to himself before Ritsuko walked up to him.
"Alright, I'll instruct you with the basics. Of course the steering wheel, the triggers underneath your fingers handle gear change, right for upshift and left for downshift. That all for that, see this large rectangular button on the right from the steering wheel beneath the left screen?"-Ritsuko asked, to which Shinji looked down before locating it. "Right, now press it."
Complying with the orders Shinji nodded pressing the button. In a fraction of a second the NERV V-10 platform lit up to life. In a blink of an eye all systems fired up as well. The Eva's UI looked like odd compared to its Sugo or AOI counterparts. Black with orange overlay, really utilitarian with complementing shades of green and red.
For a second Shinji's eyes got nystagmus as he tried to understand which gauge meant what. Ritsuko noticed it before she began her explanation.
"See this front circular gauge in front of you? Here you have your REV counter, your speedometer, your gear number, you have six gears and reverse, and of course your AT Burst build up gauge, if this fills up you can use your boost. It also shows when you have activated your air effect fans and which drive mode the car currently is. We have three of them: stop, normal and racing."-Ritsuko explained earning a risen eyebrow from the driver.
"If so, then which mode I'm supposed to use?"-Shinji asked.
"Stop is for maintance, that's why the car is on its pit stop jacks. Essentially stop is another name for a tire jack release button. Normal is for…well normal driving, it essentially keeps the power flow from the AT generators to it's regular. Racing is for pushing the car to its maximum and causing the AT flow to massively increase. It also causes the boost build up to be way faster. But due to safety concerns it is locked only for a five minutes use and will need a ten-minute period of recharge."-Ritsuko explained earning a careful nod from Shinji. The designer then shifted her gaze towards the left screen that resided next to Shinji's left leg.
"Here you have the boost pressure gauges from the turbochargers, oil pressure, water temperature, oil temperature, fuel pressure, water pressure and fuel level. Underneath the screen you have buttons responsible for drive mode changes. All of them are marked and placed in a way so that you shouldn't have a problem in pressing them, in fact according to simulation the MAGI and SynchAI gave us the most common mode change is turning off the stop mode."-Ritsuko explained before her hand pointed at the right screen.
"Here you have your AT Generator charge gauges, underneath those it's your car mode display. C stands for Circuit and A stands for Aero, you change those with voice commands. Underneath there are your core buttons, of course ignition, underneath you have your AT Field generator ignition buttons, the big central one is for the centre generator while right and left are for their corresponding sides. The button below is responsible for closing down the hatch. The pair of vertical buttons next to ignition are responsible for activating the air effect fans hidden in the side pods. The upper one is for the left and lower is for the right."-Ritsuko said, before realising that Shinji's gaze was shifting somewhere else. 'Of course he would look there.'-she thought before she pointed to the folded lever residing on the right side of the cockpit.
Designed and placed according to what she saw in Doctor Yui's notes and blue prints which also credited Claire Fortran and Kyoko Zeppelin Soryu. Of course a lot of the design was made by Ritsuko itself with the help of Maya. But to her it felt like she was building a car with a guidance of a dead person.
"I see, of course you would look there. This is the Burst Lever. Right now it's folded but when the time is right you retract it and push it forward. The front gauge then shifts to the AT burst mode."-Ritsuko explained before her ears could hear a subtle laugh. "Is something funny?"
"Nothing, it's just it really is like Asurada's distant cousin. Makes sense, after all the first prototype was co-designed by future Asurada co-designer…is that all?"-Shinji then asked before Ritsuko pointed at small turned off screens next to the main front gauge.
"Uhm, those are just rear view mirrors. We have cameras outside that transmit the view."-Ritsuko bluntly stated. "Any more questions?"
That single addition made Shinji realise something, that despite knowing everything about this state of the art machine. Looking at the HUD seemingly begging him to complete the start-up procedure.
"Yes, the bare basics I know about Cyber Formula is that there should be a front camera or something representing the Cyber System, where is it here?"-Shinji asked before he got his answer right from the source.
"Right here!"-SynchAI exclaimed appearing in a form of a holographic soundwave. "I was just taking care of the final touches, speaking of, I took the scan of your fingerprints the moment you touched the steering wheel. As did scan your iris while Vice-CTO Akagi was explain the basics. Although I wish I could do it myself like in the old days."
Shinji, still needing time to process and understand why a Cyber System spoke exactly like his mother. Just wanted to get through with it.
"I'm ready Miss Ritsuko."-Shinji stated before putting on his gloves.
"Excellent, Hyuga! Strap him in!"-Ritsuko commanded before walking away, it didn't take long before Makoto locked Shinji behind the six-point safety harness.
"You good?"-Hyuga asked to which Shinji only showed him a thumbs up, signalling him to walk away Misato then bent down next to Shinji.
"Try not to overdo it. It's your first time driving a car like that after all."-Misato suggested to which Shinji only nodded. Before pressing the normal button, the jacks retracted instantly.
"Misato, it's me behind the wheel. And if I'm to drive it, then I need to learn the Eva myself."-Shinji said before shutting down the hatch. The front black portions of the bodywork with lights seemingly pushing the large hatch back, finally enclosing Shinji down.
"Alright, activating the AT generators."-Shinji reported before pressing the centre AT button followed by two side buttons.
"Affirmative, activating sub-generators one and two."-SynchAI reported as Shinji watched the bars on the AT charge gauges slowly fill up before locking and slightly jumping over 70% full capacity.
"AT Field Generators are in norm, we are ready to go."-The Cyber System reported both to Shinji and to the crew's laptops. Maya showing Misato a thumbs up. The "team principal" walked out in front of the car before gesturing for Shinji to drive out.
'Here we go.'-Shinji thought to himself before pressing the right trigger and putting the Eva into the first gear. Slowly driving off from the garage, before speeding up letting the cacophony of the V-10, the spooling of the turbo and the hiss of the AT Generators fill the air as Evangelion 01 left in a trail of barely visible orange particles.
Misato didn't wait any longer before walking up to the pit fence. Awaiting the arrival of the black trail. Not shortly after Ritsuko joined her, lighting up a cigarette.
"Rits, why are you so sure he will yes?"-Misato asked looking at her partner, they knew each other since Misato was starting out for NERV and Ritsuko was on her internship as an engineer. Now the dynamic was different with Misato out of the cockpit. Ritsuko only let out a trail of smoke from her mouth before looking at her tablet.
"He will say yes, not only because any ambitious driver won't give up a chance to drive in a factory outfit in what is easily the most advanced car on the planet by that on the grid. But also due to the nature of SynchAI itself."-Ritsuko explained. "Add to that the fact we have the best junior on the planet plus a second team in Europe that's working just as hard for the European portion of the season. If It wasn't for orders, we could be immediately challenging for the WDC."
Misato only shrugged as she could hear the characteristic sound of the Eva 01.
"So are really we using Mommy Issues of a 16-year old as a trump card?"-Misato then asked earning a nod from Ritsuko. 'I can only hope you are right Rits.'
"Shinji, remember that this is only a test drive. You don't have to immediately push."-SynchAI said just as the Eva made its way through the test course, much to Shinji's annoyance.
"I'm trying to warm up the tyres as much as possible SynchAI, we're gonna need a better name. Although the fact it feels really smooth despite driving on 8 tires is something I'm not concerned."-Shinji said as he boldly increased the speed, hearing the roar of the engine and the lag of the turbocharger didn't temper him enough to stop his conversation. "What concerns me is why you act, behave and sound like my dead Mother."
Like a streak of dark light Shinji went through the first corner. Going down to the second gear before hitting the apex. Despite his…questions, Shinji couldn't feel nothing but amazement, confusement and excitement all in one. The car felt almost weightless, he didn't feel any oversteer or understeer. The weight transfer didn't seem to exist.
"We will talk about this later, let's focus on the rest of the test."-SynchAI said to which Shinji nodded, after all he was a self-proclaimed and known professional.
The Eva 01 Quickly made its way through the chicanes, surprised that SynchAI didn't seem to talk. Instead letting him make the decisions. 'Wow, she even behaves like Mom.'-he thought seeing brief glances of his childhood. Forgetting that currently he was driving at 445 km/h and not even pushing himself to his maximum. After all he was still learning.
Shinji's eyes then locked onto the banked corner, before for a second glancing at the car mode screen.
"SynchAI, change to Aero Mode!" The front section of the chassis immediately moved to the front spoiler. So that the lights were covering front wheel axle. All while in the behind the rear wheels were covered by retracting blinds. The back pylons seemed to move backward. Almost covering the nozzles of the sub-AT generators. While radical in 2016, it was a style that would only be a sign of things to come, especially with cars like the AKF-0 and the Ogre AN-21.
Rapidly increasing his speed Shinji immediately felt the pressure of the G-Forces, despite that he didn't feel any panic or control loss. SynchAI only remained mute, the long banked turn seemingly turning into nothing longer than a chicane.
Shinji took a quick glance at the speedometer, and his eyes widened.
"520, I'm going 520! Yet I don't feel any control loss, it's, it's exactly what I want from a car!"-He exclaimed out loud before the Eva 01 passed the corner.
"Circuit mode!"-He exclaimed as the car complied to his wishes. At 495 kilometres per hour, even higher speed then his mother. He made the turn, shifting down, pressing on the breaks while the pylons readjusted themselves allowing for stable aerodynamic flow while maintaining high speeds during turning.
'Mom, Auntie Claire, Miss Ritsuko, you are geniuses.'-Shinji thought as he made his way through the technical section. Turning never seemed more fun to him, he couldn't put a finger on it, but I was the closest thing to pure joy the first time he drove in his go-kart. He didn't even let himself go slower than 290 kilometres, and that was only during breaking. The combined sounds of the engine, the turbochargers and AT generators seemed to flow through his body, like a developing child that was in their mother's womb.
"Synch, Aero Mode!"-Shinji exclaimed as Eva 01 once again transformed, using that little time window his left hand went to the left side of the cockpit. Pressing the "racing" button, unlocking full potential of the car without the boost. Immediately he felt himself thrust forward in a blaze.
"525, 535, 540, 550, 570."-He exclaimed as he watched the rev counter slowly reaching the redline.
The Eva 01 struck though the start/finish like black thunder. Not leaving Misato any time to think before she turned towards Ritsuko.
"Are you timing it!?"-She frantically asked to which Ritsuko only turned her head.
"No, although I can see we don't to time it to deduct he is going fast. Super Asurada needed boost to reach speeds even close to the Evangelion's."- Ritsuko said before slightly raising her eyebrow. "Although I find it odd that he didn't even try."
"He probably doesn't want to crash; this track isn't really fit for a car that fast."-Misato thought as she watched the Eva vanish.
Shinji couldn't help but show a mad smile while finishing another lap, this time not breaking beneath 350. Breaks turning crimson red from the sheer friction. He took joy in watching the gauges dance like a well-coordinated musical number. The hiss of the generators complementing the natural sounds on the engines, like well synchronised music band. He knew how it worked, after all one of his hobbies secluded to his residence was playing drums.
He already made his decision, he slowed down on the final straight.
"SynchAI, send the message to the pit crew. I'm coming in."-Shinji reported before slowing his way into the pits. Much to the surprise of the entire team except for Ritsuko.
"That was a great run Shinji."-SynchAI complemented, but Shinji didn't seem to care. All those feelings, the biases, the experience and the fact he felt as if he was punched into the chest hundreds of times made him cemented in his new stance, but there was one thing remaining, and the said thing knew he was staring directly where the holographic soundwave appeared whenever it-she spoked.
Shinji only put the car on its pit jacks. Before shutting off all the systems and opening the hatch. Visibly strained and tired. Quickly Misato approached him after he jumped out of the cockpit, feeling that his legs had the density of jelly.
"Are you ok?"-Misato asked putting her arm over Shinji's shoulder. Who took off his gloves and with Misato's help took off his helmet.
"Yeah, I'll just go change my clothes and we can go meet my father."-Shinji said before pushing away Misato's arm and slowly making his way to the changing room.
After few minutes Shinji managed to take off his racing suit and underwear. Sitting now shirtless and taking deep breaths.
"Do you want to know the truth?"-Shinji's watch suddenly spoke almost giving him a heart attack.
"SynchAI? How the hell do you talk though my watch?"-Shinji asked visibly shocked.
"The AI on board the Evangelion 01 is the core Cyber System. The "conscience" portion of the system is active via data cloud in your watch. That's why it's made specifically for you."-The AI explained before continuing. "As for why I act, behave and sound like your Mother, that's because I'm technically her. What you're talking with was the last version developed by m-sorry Doctor Yui before her death. That was combined with the analytical part of me. But mentally I'm still Yui and have all her memories, so I can exactly remember cradling you as a new born, when I was teaching you basics of how a car works. And the last time I've seen you before…dying. Luckily the black boxes contained the copy and the data transfer for the newest update went through, you grew so big."
Shinji's heart froze. This AI, this machine, wasn't seemingly programmed to be like his mother, it was his mother. Or at least a portion of it was. Seemingly waiting for him until he would come back. He didn't know what to say, what to think. Only that it up his decision in jeopardy. But then, to truly convince himself that it was his mother speaking from a bridge to the afterlife. He asked her a question.
"Years ago, the day Mo…you died. You've said that you would help me. If I say yes to Dad's offer and we will become partners, will you keep that promise?"-Shinji asked, expecting a formulated, calculative reply. Surprising him SynchAI needed some time before the Watch once again lit up.
"I will always protect you…even if from the grave."-SynchAI said, and for the first time in a decade. Shinji could feel a mother's touch. Even if not physical.
"Ok, but listen. I know you are her but I can't just call you Mom."-Shinji said hoping to not break the AI's synonymous heart. "At least not yet, besides the name "SynchAI" is also not something that rolls off tongue easily."
Shinji hoped that adding the joke would diffuse the situation.
"Alright, I can agree on that. I'm just happy to look at you again and I don't want to jinx it."-SynchAI said much to Shinji's relief. "And you already started to call me Synch during our test run."
"Synch, Synch. Still not quite well from the tongue. How about Zinc?"-Shinji asked. "A little bit diminutive but soft. And easier in terms of yelling out loud."
Surprised by the fact SynchAI, or Zinc how Shinji now rechristened her laughed.
"Ok, then Zinc it is."-She said to which Shinji could visualise his mother smiling at him. "And I am happy that we will be working together, Shinji."
Shinji smiled before finally putting his shirt and T-RIDEN-T jacket on before making his way out of the changing. Although cemented in his decision of putting his bias aside his mischievous side wanted to hold Misato in uncertainty.
Gendo didn't even flinch as the door to his office once again opened to reveal Shinji.
"So, did you make your mind?"-Gendo asked before Shinji sat down in front of him.
"I'll drive it, and I will give it my all. But I want to remain flexible, aside from payment I don't want anything to hold me down if one day I wish to do something else."-Shinji said earning a nod from Gendo.
"That can be arranged."-He replied.
"But, I do have two questions before I leave."-Shinji asked. "First, why Cyber Formula anyways? A side from utilising SynchAI, but why give it such a push? Why so suddenly?"
Gendo only corrected his glasses before smiling.
"Cyber Formula is the most profitable racing series on the planet. So of course NERV would make a re-approach sooner or later. A side from reigniting the Evangelion project and giving it the green light and unlimited budget to Vice-CTO Akagi and her group from the AT project department as well as our subsidiary in Europe. I've also considered a safer option, and that was buying Sugo, knowing they struggled with budget. So I've approached Kōjirō Sugo with an offer. He turned me down, so I decided to push all in on the Evangelion Project. Maybe the strained budget after the 2016 season will make Sugo reconsider."-Gendo said to which Shinji chuckled.
"Taking the old NERV route of pettiness? Surprising, but it sounds like you according to the press."-Shinji said before formulating the second question just as he got up from his chair.
"Secondly, did you know about what SynchAI actually was? And was this the reason why you wanted me back?"-He asked looking away.
"Of course, what kind of stupid CEO I would be if I didn't know? It was your mother's passion project. Creating a Cyber System that would be exactly like her. For your second question, yes and no. But even then I would try to force you. I owed it to your mother. And that portion of her that is locked inside that watch, and to you, after sending you away to Europe."-Gendo explained to which Shinji only let out a tired moan.
"I need to catch some sleep, if there is official paper work then let's put that for tomorrow."-Shinji said earning a nod from Gendo.
"I understand. I believe that this is the beginning of a fruitful partnership."-Gendo said, to which Shinji nodded.
"I hope so as well."-Shinji said before walking out of the office. Once again not seeing Gendo's smirk, who reached out for his phone in his desk.
"Fuyutsuki, we have green light."
Misato stopped her car in front of the large front door. Of course with Shinji returning "home", he wouldn't be put in a hotel. Rather his family's main estate, far bigger than even his estate in Monaco that for served as his home.
"Wow, childhood home."-He said looking at the large house, despite it's very traditional styling, underneath it was a fairly western on the inside. At least from Shinji could scrape out from his memories. Built in early 70s by his grandfather, it stood as a symbol of acquired wealth and status of his family. With a large underground vault that housed his array of cars he managed to acquire over his life. With the crown jewel being an Auto Union type D race car from the 1930s. One he managed to find and buy in the 90s.
"Listen, tomorrow we will talk over the details."-Misato said earning a nod from her now confirmed driver, who got out from the Alpine. "Wait! Before you go, as the de facto manager and team principal. On the behalf of the whole team. As well as those you didn't have the chance to see today. I want to thank you for agreeing."
Shinji only showed his as of now boss a tired smile. 'Wow, millions of research, work hours, predictions and concepts all in the palm of my hand. Never had so much power over someone in my life.'-he thought before turning to peaking though the Alpine's open window.
"Well, it's not your fault you've built a car that deserves to be racing. Add the fact that I wouldn't have a secure drive in F1 and that I need to do something, and you have a result."-He replied before walking up to the trunk, reaching out for his bags. 'That and I can work with what is essentially my mother's ghost acting as the Cyber System.'
Shinji quickly took out his bags before walking up to the driver's side.
"Thanks for giving me a lift."-Shinji said to which Misato showed him a thumbs up.
"It's my job to have my pilot rested and ready. We will have a lot of work before the 11th season starts. I'll pick you up by the morning."-Misato said before driving off leaving Shinji alone with hi bags.
Not wasting anymore time Shinji walked through the door. Only to be met by a housemaid, dressed in a modest maid outfit.
"Welcome home Master Shinji, may I take your bags to your bedroom?"-She asked, it reminded Shinji of the days when he had maids and a teacher serving him in Monaco until he was old enough. By the time he was 14 he allowed them to return home. Knowing from experience she probably wouldn't have taken no for an answer, and that he didn't know where his bedroom resided. He begrudgingly gave in.
"Thank you."-Shinji said before handing the maid his bags. "Could you please tell me where my sister's room is?"
"Oh, it's right next to yours. Let me show you."-The maid replied before leading away, making confused and really tired Shinji follow her.
After a short walk they found themselves on the second of four floors. With one residing underground. The maid opened the door to a room that supposedly was his own a decade ago. Despite being cleaned of any evidence that would suggest it. The room was very specious and really modern despite being built in the 1960s. Featuring a queen sized bed on the left side with nightstands on both sides, and the desk on the far right corner of the room, with a tv hanging from the wall. The room's lighting was provided by a large window, granting Shinji a really nice view. Next to the main door there stood a large drawer meant for fitting all of his currently un-existent clothes.
"The door next to the bed leads to the bathroom, your sister's room is right next to yours. Have a good rest."-The maid said before putting down the bags. Respectfully bowing before leaving.
Shinji, despite wanting to go meet his sister couldn't help but fall on his bed tired.
"Listen, I wanted to ask this before but what did your father mean with you living alone?! Why didn't he send you to England to live with Claire?"-SynchAI suddenly asked with an accusing tone, one to which the tired driver didn't find the strength to answer.
"It's a long story, but please not today. I'm really tired."-Shinji said before giving in all of his willpower to rise up. Looking like a tired husk, he made his way to Rei's door.
Without knocking Shinji entered the room only to see his younger sister sitting in front of her computer. 'Now this looks more like a teenager's room.'-Shinji thought to himself looking around.
The layout itself was exactly the same, only it seemed more lively. First thing Shinji noticed were additional shelves hanging from the walls by the sides of the desk. The right one held all the trophies Rei managed to scoop all though out her own, while shorter yet impressive career.
The second shelf contained all the stuff Shinji was sending her over the years. Most notably the diecast Minichamps F1 models and some Cyber Formula models she requested for. A lot of them in 1:43 scale, Shinji just loved to spoil her.
"Hey there Rei."-Shinji said, despite this being the first time the two would see each other in a really long time.
Rei didn't waste any time before she rushed towards her brother, enveloping him in a tight. Bone breaking hug.
"Welcome home…"-Rei said with a smile and tears falling from her eyes. Despite her brother's below average smell. "Are you staying, for longer than few days?"
Shinji only smiled, she really did miss him.
"Well, it's not like I have any other real choice. That and the fact the car itself is great."-Shinji said making Rei only reinforce her hug.
"I'm happy that you're here, but you really need a bath."-Rei said, seemingly in a second shattering a tear-jerking scene.
"I know, I thought so myself after finishing my test run. Amazing car, but it destroyed me and I only did like four laps, or was it three?"-Shinji said before walking close towards her trophy cabinet. "It seems you are moving up in the world even without your older brother. Cadet Carting trophy, All-Japan Carting Championship, Formula Junior 1600, Formula 3 rookie of the year award. You're doing great."
Her older brother's comments only made her blush.
"It's…still a long way in order to achieve what you do."-Rei said. "Especially since now you will be racing in Cyber Formula."
Shinji patted his sister's back with a smile.
"Don't worry, soon you'll be 14 and you can go to FICCY to get a CF licence. Maybe by that time I'll build up some contacts to get you a drive. Maybe except Kyoko Aoi, although that's my fault that this bridge burned down."-Shinji said with a slight chuckle before letting out a jaw-cracking yawn.
"Listen, I really wish we could talk for hours about all sorts of stuff. But I'm really tired, so I guess I'll take a shower and go to sleep."-He added making Rei only begrudgingly nod.
"Good night then, I still have to finish all this dumb schoolwork."-Rei said earning a chuckle from her brother.
"Good good, maybe that way you'll be smarter than your older brother, remember I only passed Middle School because of End-Of-Year exams."-Shinji said before walking through the doorsill. "Bonne nuit Rei."
As Shinji made his way back to his bed his watch lit up.
"It seems you are really proud of Rei"-SynchAI said, earning a smile from Shinji.
"You're damn right I am, and you should be proud as well Zinc."-He replied before walking inside of his room.
"You can't imagine it, even more since I wasn't there to guide her like I did with you."-SynchAI replied to which Shinji sighed, Rei was only a three-year old when their mother died. So she didn't remember much of her, if not not remembering her at all. He only sighed as he could hear the sadness in the Cyber System's voice.
"Listen, I didn't want to immediately tell her about your…nature. Since I'm not sure if she knows about you technically being our Mom."-Shinji said. "But I'll get onto it tomorrow, or ask Dad about it."
"I understand; I still need to catch up on you let alone get to know Rei. After all, if we will be partners we need to trust each other."-SynchAI said as Shinji took off the watch before putting it on the charger he found in the black box.
Grabbing his pyjamas, he made his way to the bathroom, in contrast to the styling of the building itself. The bathroom was really traditional in its layout. A large bathtub which stood next to a washbasin with a connected shower battery and a mirror.
Not wasting any more time Shinji took out his cosmetics and made his effort in preparing a bubble bath. After filling up the bath he immediately jumped in. Feeling the warm embrace of hot water making his muscles finally let go. Speaking of warm embrace, Shinji's attention then turned to the phone that sitting on the washbasin.
He wiped his closest hand and reached towards it, quickly dialling Mana's number. 'They should've arrived in Mimasaka by now.'-he thought before he heard the familiar voice.
"Hey Shinji."-Mana's said with her voice tone indicating that she was tired.
"Hey there the most beautiful driver in world, did you reach Mimasaka without problems?"
Mana, who laid alone in her hotel room only blushed hearing her…boyfriend's, lover's? comments.
"Currently? Laying in a bathrobe, tired as hell. And up until now waiting for when you would call."-She said, as meanwhile Shinji only chuckled.
"Yeah sorry, well currently I'm in Hakone, having a bubble bath. Enjoying feeling the full-body warmth. And it made me remember someone who can be way hotter than hot water."-Shinji teased, causing Mana to blush. After all there was a reason why she was the more tired one after their night-time endeavours.
"Haha, how did the talk with your father went?" Shinji only sighed before swallowing air, the fact he would be driving in Cyber Formula beside Mana as rivals was only something his brain was still registering. But the more he thought about it, the more it fit their job description.
"Listen, today I may have done the stupidest thing possible in my life. And the next time we'll see each other will probably be in march."-Shinji said. "I can't say much, but what I can is that you should stay tuned on news regarding NERV."
"What?"-Shinji could feel Mana's confusement even without seeing her face.
"Let's just say that my career took a twist. Ah to hell with it, just promise you won't tell anyone."
Mana only raised her eyebrow in confusion.
"Why would you be so secretive about something?"-She asked.
"NERV is going to enter Cyber Formula, and I'm the driver. Before you'll ask about what I said before, when I got inside that car…it felt outstanding. So much that I really want to drive it"-Shinji replied, despite receiving her answer Mana still felt confused, mostly why Shinji wanted to keep it under the wraps so much.
"Okay, so you got a job that you are satisfied with. That's great! But why did you try to hide it from me?"
Shinji then realised that his former boss didn't share his plans with either of his drivers.
"Mana, did mister Clemenceau talked with you about…the next season perhaps?"-Shinji asked, after all the fact T-RIDEN-T was planning to enter Cyber Formula as a customer team. It was one of the reasons why his contract was terminated early in the first place.
"We had a briefing shortly after arriving in the hotel. But that was about it, he said that he wanted to make it the best with what we have since you had to be laid off. And that this is a test for how well we will work in the next season. Why do you ask?"-Mana asked, making Shinji realise she doesn't know how close she is to realising her dreams.
"Uh, nothing. Listen, I'll call you tomorrow, as of now I'm still feeling as if I was driven over by a steamroller."-He replied, hearing Mana chuckle.
"Fine Mister Cyber Formula driver. I think I'll go to sleep now, and don't worry, your secrets are safe with me."-Mana said to which Shinji laughed.
"I don't deserve you, and I should finally finish washing myself. Good night Mana. I love you."-Shinji said before closing the call and looking up to the ceiling.
"I guess she didn't realise it, and the question is. How you will make it work now Mister Ikari?"-He thought to himself out loud. After all, now they would be racing in the same series, under the watchful eyes of their teams, their rivals and most importantly journalists. But that was the least of their worries, after all now they would be rivals and would have to put their feelings aside in order to drive to their fullest. 'Well, guess I'll have to stay ahead of her and Musashi to not think about it.'
Hakone, Japan. November 24th 2015, 11:59. NERV Headquarters.
Shinji, dressed in atypical formal attire of jeans and a white t-shirt walked inside his father's office. 'If I know I would've been signing a contract I would've brought a suit.'-he thought before noticing that his father wasn't alone, being accompanied by people he recognised as Kozo Fuyutsuki and Naoko Akagi, although visibly older than the last time he had seen them.
Shinji sat in front of his father for the third time in a decade, quickly reading over the contract he was presented with. It was kept really brief, as it was barely fitting a single A4 paper.
Not wasting his time for any unnecessary speeches Shinji placed his signature, before handing the paper of over to Gendo, who also placed his signature.
The deal was done, and now Shinji was officially a Cyber Formula driver representing NERV, or NERV Japan to be specific. 'This…is going to be a long winter break.'-Shinji thought, now not only he would have to get known to Evangelion 01 itself and his new team. But also train to withstand high G-Forces if he wanted to use the car to its fullest. It was a start of a long path, one that would end when NERV Japan would partake in first round of the 11th Cyber Formula GPX in Brazil.
A/N: Welcome back to Evangelion 01. Let's start with some lore changes, those being age changes of certain characters. Most notably Claire, who in this universe essentially replaces Mari as Yui and Kyoko's junior in college. Still it's only a two-year difference. But in canon Cyber Formula timeline Claire was born in 1994. So still quite a difference. With Fuyutsuki it's something else, since in canon Eva's story he was Yui's mentor before joining GEHIRN that would become NERV. So I wanted to keep that part despite Yui studying in Britain and stumbling upon Kyoko and Claire. So this is something I want to touch upon in future chapters. Alongside the foundation of NERV itself, since there is no SEELE in this. And in canon Yui's father was one of key members of SEELE. So I tweaked it a bit to fit this Elseworlds-alike crossover. In terms of Eva 01 itself, it was designed to essentially be Unit 01 on wheels, so what Eva 01 it would be without Yui inside of it? So yeah, since I didn't want to play with reveals Shinji just knows that SynchAI is technically is his Mom. And in terms of advancements, just because Shinji has the fastest car on the grid (As of now) doesn't mean he will win, after all he is still a rookie. And why in prologue the 2017 Eva 01 has a number 2. Let's just say that a lot of this story is based on "Yellow Teapot" and Turbo Era from F1. So futuristic technology, arms race etc. Although we won't get to the Brazilian GPX in the next chapter. Although I can't wait into events of 11 itself. But that's for the future. And as always I don't own either Evangelion or Future GPX Cyber Formula, those belong to Studio Khara and Sunrise.