Rebuild SKL is Kaiser
ESKK: Time to begin chapter 10.
(Start Miki Ritsuko's office Wundur)
Things have been hectic ever since the last battle. Now that the UN forces had secured the regions and they got a full count… well it was a bittersweet victory in the Slum Kings fortress. Miki and Ryo were one of the lucky survivors while some of the others who managed it… they had to be euthanized. It came as a shock to Ritsuko upon reading the reports and she did not wish that upon anyone else. It showed the level of human depravity and she hoped once this was over order will be restored. But that was not the reason she was in her office with Miki sitting across the table from the woman.
Miki's physical therapy had made splendid progress to the point she's able to walk on her own more or less. She can grab things on her own as well from the fact she was seen eating by herself despite a nurse on standby to help her. Plus, her mental state had seen some improvements, but she was still under monitoring to make sure that Miki did not have any regressions. Misato would probably argue that it might still be too early to make this request of Miki. But Ritsuko felt that if they wanted to make a decisive strike against NERV they needed all the advantages they could possibly get.
"So… is there a reason why you called me here?" Miki asked with concern for herself and for good reason.
"Yes." Ritsuko began as she got down to their topic. But before anything could be said the door opened and from it Misato walked in. "Commander what a surprise." Ritsuko said but Misato did not respond so casually to her.
"Ritsuko, do I need to ask why I had to find out through an exterior source that you decided to interview a possible Pilot without venting it through me first?" Misato asked with a raised brow expecting an answer from the faux blond before her.
"A possible pilot?" Miki asked with confusion in her voice. "Wait me?" She asked realizing that it had to be her they were talking about.
"Yes." Ritsuko said as she now had to change gears with Misato standing with them. "While you were being treated, I had a few extra tests run on you." Ritsuko said attempting to be delicate about this topic with Miki. "Mind you the tests were simply to confirm something and if the information was false, we would have left it be." Ritsuko added and thus Miki felt there was more.
"However, after those test's the information was confirmed as truth so here, we are." Misato said getting down to it.
"What is this really about?" Miki asked wanting to get straight to the point. She was also hiding a sharp implement just in case. Ever since she was liberated from the Slum Kings hold Miki had this foreboding fear and paranoia while on the Wundur. She was getting better but even now… the only people other than woman who could touch her without having Miki panic were Akira and Ryo. Miki trusted them without fail and knew they would never intentionally hurt her even now.
"Ok I'll cut straight to it." Misato said before swallowing her breath and saying it. "Miki you've been identified as a viable EVA Pilots… we're offering you the opportunity to pilot an EVA for WILLE." Misato said and thus Miki sat there in shock here.
"Wait… me an EVA pilot?" Miki asked shocked at the words she had just heard.
"Yes." Misato said confirming for Miki the offer that she gave. "I know it's a lot to ask but WILLE needs as many allies as we can afford." Misato said making it clear the situation hey were currently in here. "Just so we're clear your not being drafted if that's what your worried about." Misato said assuring Miki that the choice was hers to make.
"Sorry if I'm not being quick on the uptake." Miki began as she tried to consider her options carefully. "But you have to understand that this offer is a lot to put on me here." Miki said as she tried to consider the offer carefully.
"We understand so please don't rush into this and consider your options carefully." Misato said urging Miki to actually think about how she wanted to proceed with this rare offer.
"What if… I say no?" Miki asked as she wanted to know all her options. Ritsuko looked upset by this, but Misato decided to speak instead before Ritsuko could say the wrong thing and ruin their chance to get another EVA Pilot for WILLE.
"If you decline the offer then that the end of it, we'll escort you and Ryo to Village-3 so you both can get better care for what you've both endured." Misato said as Miki was surprised by this as at the moment, she knew she needed more mental help for all the years of trauma she had been forced to endure.
"Can… can I have some time to think about it?" Miki asked as she was unsure if she should accept this offer or decline it.
"Of course, take as much time as you need." Misato said and thus with a nod Miki stood up, bowed, and then left the office. Once Miki was out of the office and the door closed behind her Misato then directed her attention at Ritsuko. "Now that Miki is out of the room can you explain to me why you felt it best to try and draft her behind my back?" Misato asked as she glared at Ritsuko for this while taking a paper from her desk that had DRAFT printed on it in bold.
"Misato we now have a Third EVA we need pilots, and we cannot trust the Specimen in the Entry Plug." Ritsuko said causing Misato to glare at Ritsuko for that.
"Specimen? You mean Shinji?!" Misato snapped when she realized Ritsuko was talking about Shinji there.
"Misato…" Ritsuko trailed but Misato slammed her hand down on the desk.
"You've had this same mindset over 14 years ago treating our pilots as nothing more than hardware instead of people, no, instead of children!" Misato yelled as she glared at Ritsuko for this.
"Misato even back then we needed pilots!" Ritsuko snapped back losing her temper as well. "The moment they were chosen they no longer had the luxury to be children." Ritsuko countered but Misato held her ground against her old friend.
"We're crossing to many lines at this point, we threw Shinji under the bus to serve our needs, we perpetuated the lie to keep control of Asuka, and now your attempting to force Miki to pilot the EVA after she had just begun to regain her life!" Misato snapped and thus Ritsuko stood up no longer able to contain her own anger over this situation.
"We need to do whatever it takes to win! If we lose this war against NERV then we lose the planet and humanity goes extinct!" Ritsuko yelled showing that the good of the many outweigh the good of the few. "No matter what we must stop NERV and save humanity!" Ritsuko yelled but then Misato had enough of Ritsuko's apathy.
"But at what cost!?" Misato countered the one who kept the WILLE EVA Units maintained. "How far are we willing to go, how low are we willing to sink before we end up doing the same things as Gendo?" Misato asked as she was not naïve about this. Gendo Ikari was a horrid man and in war sacrifices had to be made but how many will they make before they become another Gendo and NERV?
Ritsuko glared at Misato as Misato shared that glare neither side willing to give in. Morals and beliefs were being challenged and for a moment it looked like neither side would surrender to the other. "Ritsuko… I need to know here and now." Misato began as she needed to know. "Can I still trust you to fight for WILLE?" Misato asked as she needed this confirmation from Ritsuko right now.
"Of course, Misato." Ritsuko began as she looked towards Ritsuko. "Why would you think otherwise?" Ritsuko asked almost offended that Misato would even ask her.
Misato then turned away and began to leave the room. But she then stopped at the door for a moment before speaking. "Because lately… I find myself wondering if I've trusted the right people." Misato said not even looking at Ritsuko before leaving Ritsuko's office.
(Meanwhile back over with Miki)
Miki was making her way through the Wundur as her mind was clouded with thoughts. She was able to roam freely now but it seems the crew still kept a close eye on the girl. Miki had just been given a great offer and yet she wasn't sure she could commit to being a pilot. But at the same time, Miki wanted to contribute more to the fight against NERV. But Miki was afraid… she was afraid of being sent back to that Hell that she suffered for all those years under the Slum King.
Miki could barely make physical contact with others without the trauma resurfacing in some way. Walking through the halls of the Wundur Miki stopped for a moment when she saw her reflection. For a moment she didn't see herself but the hurt girl who had been defiled, humiliated, and tainted. Almost unconsciously Miki began to hug herself fearful as her mind travelled back to that dark place of endless pain. Even with her prosthetics it still felt like she was on the ground leashed and the Slum King was there.
Before she could begin to enter a panic attack a new voice cut in drawing her back out to reality. "Hey new girl." Asuka was heard as she approached Miki seeing the girl standing there. "What are you doing, here?" Asuka asked with a raised brow curious as to why Miki was just standing around.
"Oh… sorry I just came out of a meeting with Ms. Akagi and Ms. Katsuragi you see." Miki apologized but the tone she used Asuka knew something was bothering her. Normally Asuka would have ignored it but the fact that Miki just met with WILLE's leaders was a red flag. Mainly because she still hasn't forgiven either Misato and Ritsuko for their deception and had every intention of carrying out her revenge against those two. They stole her life from her, and Asuka had every intention of making them pay.
"So, what did Commander lying bitch and Vice Commander Bottle Blond want?" Asuka asked showing her disdain for those two.
"They… they offered me a chance to pilot the EVA." Miki admitted as she looked away back to the mirror.
When Asuka heard this information, she was rightfully shocked. From what Asuka understood an EVA pilot needs to be born within 9 months of the Second Impact event to be a candidate. Then again that could have been a lie as well that Misato and Ritsuko had perpetuated as far as Asuka knew. But Miki was 14 years old and both the initial and true Third Impacts occurred 14 years prior. So maybe the candidate didn't need to be born after Second Impact but just an Impact in general to be a viable EVA Pilot.
"Ok…" Asuka trailed as she wanted more information from Miki. "And what did you say?" Asuka asked and in turn Miki turned her head giving her answer to the German.
"I… asked for time to think about it." Miki admitted before she looked over to Asuka. "I'm not sure if I should accept the offer or if I can." Miki said as Asuka knew the girl was at a crossroads. "I mean I'm grateful that you helped Akira rescue Ryo and I but… after everything I endured." Miki said and thus Asuka knew Miki needed some advice to help her. Now if only Asuka can give said advice and not screw the girl up more than she was right now, that's easier said than done.
"So, on one hand you become an EVA pilot and fight alongside Akira, on the other hand you can finally find some peace with your life after all you endured." Asuka said as she leaned on the wall with her hands in her jackets pockets.
"Yeah." Miki said as she wanted to get better… but she didn't want to be separated from Akira either. Not after they had finally been reunited after all this time. "What do you think… should I take the offer or not?" Miki asked looking over to Asuka wanting her opinion.
"I can't tell you if you should or not." Asuka said as she figured out how to help Miki here. "There are a lot of pro's and cons you need to consider first before you make that life changing decision." Asuka said and thus Miki tilted her head a bit. "If you accept then sure you'll be saving the world but assuming Ritsuko didn't have alternative means you'll be living with a bomb strapped to your neck." Asuka said knowing ever EVA pilot had those. The DSS Chokers were meant to kill them in the event any of their EVA's were to trigger an impact.
"Oh…" Miki said as this seemed to be tilting her decision towards not accepting the offer to pilot an EVA.
"Look Miki this is a big decision, and you need to be the one to make it." Asuka said as she looked to Miki. "Neither I nor anyone here in WILLE can make the decision for you." Asuka said and thus Miki nodded understanding her.
"I think… I think I understand." Miki began as she got the gist of what Asuka was saying. "Thank you." Miki said with a small bow before taking her leave.
"Yeah." Asuka said as she watched Miki leaving no doubt to think about the offer.
Asuka stood there for a bit watching Miki leave seemingly unaware that she now had a new guest standing with her. "So there goes your future daughter-in-law." Mari said causing Asuka's to scowl at the sudden arrival of Mari here.
"What do you want four eyes?" Asuka snapped as she was not in the mood to deal with Mari's antics. Though in retrospect Asuka was never in the mood to deal with Mari's annoying antics.
"Oh, I was just in the area when I overheard your conversation with Miki." Mari said with a smirk on her face. "I'm surprised you didn't tell her to become an EVA Pilot." Mari added and thus Asuka scoffed to this pushing her fellow odd EVA Pilot away when she got into her personal space. "Come on Princess your still hung up that Hellhound isn't your kid." Mari said only for Asuka to respond by grabbing Mari and slamming her into the wall. Mari was caught off guard by this as Asuka then glared directly at Mari herself.
"How the fuck did you know about that four eyes?!" Asuka demanded as Mari was confused but then went wide eyed at her slip of the tongue. No one in WILLE beyond Misato, Ritsuko, Asuka, and maybe Sakura were supposed to know about who Akira really was.
Thinking fast Mari had to come up with an excuse before the princess starts asking the big questions about her. "I mean he may look like the puppy, but he has your features." Mari said hoping Asuka would buy it. "Honestly speaking it wasn't really that hard to deduce everyone on the ship is probably already guessing he's your kid." Mari said not wanting her true intentions to be revealed.
Asuka stood there for a moment as she glared directly at Mari. All was quiet as Asuka was half-tempted to drag Mari for further interrogation. But not as much as Asuka wanted to do this, she was still fresh from the deceptions of Misato, Ritsuko, and of course NERV as well as the manipulation of her life by those people. So, without any further fanfare Asuka let go of Mari and began to walk off.
Mari made no attempt to go after Asuka and once she was out of hearing range Mari let out a sigh of relief. That had been way to close for comfort because if Asuka started to look into Mari, then her cover could be blown. It was already bad enough that Jun recognized her but if anyone else found out who she was and her true involvement with EVA Mari had no illusions that she'll be made public enemy number 1. Ever since Kaiser showed up everything has been shifting and Mari knew it was only a matter of time before the big questions are asked and Mari is exposed.
With these concerns haunting Mari, the EVA Pilot began to walk off hoping no one else was nearby who heard. Though as Mari left the area, she failed to notice Eve hiding behind a nearby wall having overheard the conversation. Eve stood there as she made notes of it on her PDA and replayed the voice over of the conversation between Mari and Asuka. Ever since Eve had joined up something about Mari had bothered her. The girl had close to no background information to go off of beyond the basics. Clearly Mari was not a clone made and raised to pilot EVA she lacked the psychological keys to a child soldier like Asuka herself. More so clones have certain genetic markers on them and according to Mari's files she had none of those markers.
Finally, was the event 14 years ago. As far as Mari knew only Asuka knew about the Beast Mode for Unit-02 and Mari was able to use it and the EVA like she had been doing it for years already. Whoever or whatever Mari was Eve intended to find out. If Mari was in some way a threat to WILLE and Shinji, then Eve won't hesitate to terminate the girl. The mere fact that Dr. Fudo seems to know Mari was a red flag here. So, with her decision made and work to be done, Eve took her leave. She needed to investigate Mari and who the pilot really was.
(Scene Break later with Miki)
Miki was sitting by herself on the upper hull of the Wundur watching the clouds for a bit. Hugging her legs to her chest Miki rubbed her fingers on them the sound of her prosthetic could be heard by her. She sat there her mind wandering to the offer Misato and Ritsuko had given her. She wasn't sure if she could do it and that's not even factoring in the Curse of EVA that every EVA pilot had to endure.
Just then she heard a whistle and following it something placed on her head. She goes wide eyed and looks only to see an apple fall onto her lap. Taking it into her hands she looked at it for a moment and then looked to the source and saw Akira and Ryo had arrived with Akira holding a small bag of apples with Akira eating one.
"So, Miki since we got your attention, what's eating you?" Akira asked with his mouth full before swallowing.
"It's… it's complicated." Miki said not sure if she should share this with Akira. They have been apart for a few years neither of them were the same as they had been years prior to now.
"Well, we do have time." Ryo said his tone bored yet oddly welcoming to Miki.
"I…" Miki began before steeling her resolve on her words. "I was offered the chance to become an EVA Oilot for WILLE." Miki admitted as Akira took another bite of his apple his expression unchanged.
"Ok… and what? Did you take their offer or turn them down?" Akira asked as he wanted details on this.
"I… haven't decided." Miki admitted and thus Akira shrugged to this and took another bite of his apple and ate.
"So, I assume that you're trapped unknown if you should take the offer or not." Ryo said as he saw right through Miki.
"Yeah." Miki said before taking a bite out of her apple.
"I would recommend it." Ryo suddenly said as he looked to the girl. "A chance to take back control of your life as it were." Ryo said as Akira scoffed to this.
"Yeah, all while following orders from WILLE." Akira said making it clear that was a major con. "Plus, how much money you willing to bet that Ritsuko is trying to make more DSS Chokers before the UN finds out someone destroyed them all?" Akira added knowing the chokers were placed on EVA pilots in case they awoken their EVA and began another impact event.
"I'm just saying while they don't have access to the DSS Chokers the EVA Pilots now hold the cards." Ryo said as he looked to the two.
"Yeah." Akira said and then recalled something. "Speaking of the blond I'm supposed to go see her about some shit about 20 minutes ago." Akira said showing he was blowing off Akagi again.
"I see." Ryo said and thus Miki got up.
"I'll go with you." Miki said as she wanted to spend some time with Akira anyway.
(Later in the Wundur's Halls)
The trio were walking through the halls of the Wundur as they made their way through. During this it seemed their discussion over Miki piloting an EVA unit had continued. "Look Miki, I know you want to help, but you had only recently got mobility of your limbs back." Akira said as he knew Miki was still not 100% ready.
"I know and that's why I'm hesitant." Miki said as she walked alongside Akira with Ryo trailing them from behind.
"Well, it's a good thing that you're at least thinking this through and not be forced into it." Akira said as the group walked through the Wundur towards Ritsuko's office. "Don't want to jump something like this." Akira said and thus Miki gave Akira a mock glare for that one.
"Akira you are literally the last person to lecture me about that." Miki said as Akira smirked at his own hypocrisy.
"Yeah, doesn't make it any less true." Akira countered with a smirk and thus Miki chuckled over what Akira was trying to do.
"Thanks." Miki said and Akira shrugged, and they kept walking. At least that was until they heard a nearby commotion. Looking towards where the sound came from, they came across someone in a Maintenance uniform crouching over someone punching them in the face. Akira saw this and then proceeded to draw his knife out recognizing who it was.
At the same time Ryo glared at the scene but did nothing to intervene. He knew that what Akira was about to do would either end with someone dead or everyone alive. Ryo hoped that someone would die from this one less human for him to worry about.
(At the same time Shinji)
Shinji was by himself once more as he was cleaning up around the Wundur again with a mop in hand and a mop bucket nearby. Lately it seems that most of the crew had grown accustomed to his presence amongst them. Shinji supposed that staying still and doing nothing beyond cleaning after his near suicide attempt had changed their views. There were still the outliers here and there, but it wasn't as bad as before.
Another thing Shinji had noticed was how Asuka was given a wide berth whenever Misato or Ritsuko were nearby. No doubt it had spread around the truth of Misato and Ritsuko's deception and had negatively impacted WILLE's moral for it. He really needed to talk to Eve about that but now at this moment. But he couldn't exactly fault Eve for revealing the truth because he knew Asuka deserved to know the truth of herself.
Shinji had crossed paths with Miki, but she was not exactly up to being around males yet. Only Akira could get close to her but that was because they knew each other from before her capture and years of rape. She needed her space still, but Shinji was happy to see that Miki's condition was showing off signs of improvement. Shinji hoped that Miki would be able to regain her sense of safety and regain her ability to live life.
Ryo on the other hand Shinji crossed paths with him a couple of times and Shinji didn't know but something was off about the boy. Shinji wasn't sure but it was like he was looking at someone who only knew hatred for everything and everyone. However, Shinji's thoughts were soon cut short when Midori arrived on the scene glaring at Shinji.
"Oh, hello did you need something?" Shinji greeted the young pink haired member of WILLE in a friendly manner. Shinji figured if he continued being open and friendly, he would not have much in terms of issues with WILLE unless they were one of the outliers of the group.
Midori did not respond to Shinji as she glared at him. After Eve erased the data for the DSS Chokers they were unable to attach one to Shinji's neck to keep the idiot in line. Looking at him here though filled Midori with a rage watching him wearing their uniform like he was a member. After everything she lost and sacrificed only to be denied her revenge was infuriating. It was made worse because of Kaiser and by extension because of Shinji. She was stuck in the engine room after her reassignment but instead of working on the computers or communications she was basically a glorified page.
Apparently, her new coworkers heard about what she did and thought she would try to sabotage the engines. Midori was offended by such distrust after all she did for WILLE. She was angry not stupid if the Wundur goes down then she and humanity goes down with it. When she heard Shinji was basically being used as an over glorified janitor and cook for the Wundur Midori saw the perfect chance for revenge. Shinji had cost Midori her position on the command deck, had cost Midori her reputation amongst her fellow WILLE members, and most of all had cost her the lives of her family and peaceful life.
So, Midori began to approach Shinji noticing that he looked oddly confused about her approach. Shinji never saw it coming when Midori suddenly punched Shinji in the gullet and knocked him down right after. Shinji crashed and tipped over the mop bucket spilling its contents as Midori then proceeded to kick Shinji while he was down. Once she got a few kicks in Midori grabbed Shinji dragged him across the floor and slammed him against the wall causing the boy to cry out in pain.
Midori saw the injuries Shinji was suffering before pinning him to the ground and proceeded to punch him in the face. She kept this up as her face contorted in rage against the former pilot.
"This is what you get!" Midori yelled as she kept punching Shinji her fist being stained with his blood. "You killed my family!" Miki yelled delivering another punch. "You mutated me!" She went on with another punch while Shinji did nothing to stop her assault. "You destroyed the world!" Midori yelled as she then paused for a moment to get a good look at Shinji. His eye was bruised, his nose was bloody, his lip was split, his face was showing damages from her assault.
But somehow Midori was not able to enjoy her handiwork. Despite how hurt he was Midori saw something past it, Shinji smiled. The genocidal idiot was smiling while she was unleashing her rage on him. Was he happy? Was he fucking happy that she was beating him down like this?!
"WIPE THAT GRIN OFF YOUR FACE!" Midori yelled and proceeded to unleash her rage on Shinji again with increased force his blood spilling as she used both fists against him. But despite it all Shinji kept smiling at her leaving Midori with even more rage to unload with her attack. Midori kept going not even stopping for a moment and by the looks of it she would keep doing it until she had beaten Shinji to death in this hallway.
Midori kept going her fists flying against Shinji his blood starting to hit her face, yet Shinji did not stop smiling. Midori's rage was at an apex but before she could finish him off, she cried out in pain as a knife stabbed into her back closer to her shoulder blade. She then felt her neck grabbed and with momentum was flung off of Shinji. Midori rolled across the ground and saw to her horror Akira standing there with a bloodied knife in his hand.
"Miki get Shinji now!" Akira called and already Miki was helping Shinji get back up.
"Are you ok?" Miki asked as Shinji seemed a bit disoriented from receiving Midori's beating.
"I… I think." Shinji said as Miki swallowed her fears and with Ryo helped Shinji to his feet.
"No let him bleed! Let him DIE!" Midori yelled ready to charge and stop them but then all of a sudden, she felt something cold held against the back of her neck.
"Stand down Midori." Kuzo said as he held his gun against Midori's head. He had no doubt arrived and already put together what was happening.
Midori gritted her teeth and glared her eyes towards Kuzo her rage clearly at the apex but no longer was she able to unleash it. "Damn you." Midori snarled ignoring the pain from Akira's stab wound.
"Get on the ground Midori hands where I can see them." Kuzo said and thus Midori was forced to raise her hands that were still stained with Shinji's blood. Midori then locked her fingers together behind her head as she stood at gun point knowing Kuzo will not miss if given reason to shoot.
"Hey Kuzo." Akira said as he had his knife ready in case Midori tries something. Akira was happy that Kuzo was here to back him up on this, but he would not display it here.
"Security is already on the way they'll let Sakura know to prepare for Ikari's arrival." Kuzo said as he held the gun against Midori's head.
(Scene Break in Misato office)
Misato sat in her office as she rubbed her eyes in frustration over what had happened in the hall. Shinji was currently in the medical ward getting treated for Midori's assault and after receiving the statements its becoming clear that Midori was not mental stable. Then again not many in WILLE were mentally stable anyway. Rubbing his eyes, a bit Misato already felt a headache hitting her after this latest incident.
"This is turning out great." Ritsuko said sarcastically with the reports on what happened.
"I thought that moving her towards maintenance would put a stop to this… I was wrong." Misato said as she looked to Ritsuko.
"We spoke with the guard detail watching Shinji they left him by himself to grab a bite to eat." Ritsuko said recalling what they had told her. "They're currently finishing up Shinji's task." Ritsuko said already handling that breach in Shinji's security. Ritsuko was also taking extra care not to call Shinji a specimen less she triggers a retort from Misato again.
"Great thank goodness for small miracles." Misato said but then Ritsuko had to ask.
"So, what did you do with Midori?" Ritsuko asked as she was curious.
"At the moment she's spending some time down in the brig." Misato said knowing that Midori needed to be contained and kept far away from Shinji for now. "I may need to have her flogged if this keeps up." Misato said crossing her arms noting the problem Midori was posing after being reassigned. "Best to keep an eye on her in case she tries anything else like this." Misato said as Midori was walking on thin ice as is. First, Midori attempted to shoot Akira unprovoked, then she sabotaged a mission for her revenge, and now she brutally assaulted Shinji in the halls.
"Which reminds me." Ritsuko said as she had more to add. "Did you know Shinji didn't even attempt to fight back." Ritsuko said as she found this to be odd. "According to Midori he just smiled almost like he was glad to be attacked." Ritsuko said noting that sort of behavior was cause for concern.
"Have Sakura keep a close eye on Shinji." Misato said hoping she was wrong here.
"Already did, she's aware of the situation." Ritsuko said and with a nod Misato let it be.
"Good dismissed." Misato said and thus Ritsuko took her leave and thus Misato was left alone. "Shinji… are you… punishing yourself?" Misato wondered aloud with concern for Shinji.
(Meanwhile in the medical wing)
In the medical wing Akira sat on a chair as he, Kuzo, Miki, and Ryo watched as Sakura treated the injuries Midori inflicted upon Shinji. "What in Gods name has gotten into her?" Sakura asked as she was stitching up what she could and bandaging where the bandages were needed.
"It's a good thing Kuzo stepped in when he did." Ryo said grateful that Shinji walked away from this alive. He suspected that Midori would have continued her attack if she didn't have a gun on her at the time.
"Small miracles I suppose." Miki added as she stood close to Akira with Kuzo leaning against the wall near them.
"Well, that should do it." Midori said as Shinji nodded to the younger Suzuhara sibling.
"Thank you." Shinji said with a smile grateful for Sakura's help.
"Great now people should have no trouble telling us apart." Akira quipped with a smile on his face here.
"Nah people are still that level of stupid." Kuzo said with his eyes closed and a smirk on his lips.
"Uh Akira." Shinji said knowing Akira had no surname to refer to him with. "Thank you… for helping me there." Shinji said bowing his head lightly at Akira.
Akira was surprised by those words for a moment before he scoffed to them. "Don't look to deep into it." Akira said as he got up and knew he had something to handle elsewhere on the Wundur. "Anyway, I got shit to do see you guys later." Akira said walking off as Kuzo stood there for a bit longer.
"I need to go see Eve anyway need an escort back to your room Miki?" Kuzo asked as he looked over to Miki.
"Uh… yeah." Miki said and thus with a gesture of his head Kuzo and Miki left the room leaving Ryo behind with Shinji.
"Ikari-san." Ryo began as he got Shinji's attention on him. "Its been bothering me but… why didn't you fight back?" Ryo asked with concern as to why Shinji didn't try defending himself.
"It wouldn't have meant anything if I did." Shinji said with a sad tone like a kicked puppy. "She was angry at me rightfully so… I probably had it coming." Shinji said as Ryo then glared at Shinji for a moment.
"Don't say that Shinji, what Midori did was uncalled for and practically criminal." Sakura said knowing Shinji was not only unarmed but also unwilling to fight back. "Midori has been out of control lately she's on thin ice already." She added but Shinji did not try to counter her. When Sakura saw this, she knew Shinji felt guilty over what had happened during The Initial Third Impact leading up to the True Third Impact.
Ryo simply glared at Shinji and saw he was unwilling to finish what he had started. He simply stood there hoping for Sakura to leave the room so he and Shinji can have a private talk over the Third Impact.
(Later over in the Brig)
Down in the brig Midori sat in her cell on her cot glaring at the cell door. She was angry even now and once more Akira got in the way. Kaiser was destroying WILLE for the inside out they were turning against their mission to kill that genocidal idiot Shinji. Her stab wound had been treated as was the bruising she suffered both from Akira. Everyone was betraying her all because of Kaiser and his ilk for siding with Shinji. Her cell was dark at the moment as Midori sat on the cot with her legs pulled up against her chest with her head resting on her knees.
The pink haired woman glared angerly at the door waiting for it to open up. It was all that idiots fault it always traced back to that damn genocidal idiot. Even Asuka was turning against her leaving Midori alone against those traitors. She would not be fooled she will do what needs to be done for her revenge she will kill Shinji for WILLE she will do that that idiot what no one else will stomach doing.
Just then the door slid open and from it Midori glared seeing Akira standing there. "What do you want?" Midori asked as she now had another scar thanks to Akira.
"Just needed to ask what that brat ever did to you?" Akira asked his voice the same arrogant tone Midori had associated with the psycho.
"You know what he did so don't ask such stupid questions." Midori countered as Akira leaned on the door frame with his arms crossed.
"Humor me." Akira said as he wanted to hear what excuse Midori had to offer here.
"I suffered because of him he caused Third Impact which killed everyone I loved." Midori said as Akira glared at her at those words. "He destroyed the world and is being allowed to walk free he needs to pay for his crimes against me and against humanity." Midori went on as Akira knew what was going on here with Midori.
"So, because you suffered it gives you right to punish him?" Akira asked and in turn Midori glared at Akira.
"Well, who else? No one in WILLE has the strong enough rage to do it." Midori countered and in turn Akira did something that angered the pink haired woman, he began to bellow a laugh. Midori heard his laughter which caused her to glare at Akira for it. "What's so funny?" Midori asked as Akira was laughing at her nearly losing his balance to roll on the ground laughing. "WHAT'S SO FUCKING FUNNY!" Midori yelled her rage directed at Akira.
"YOU!" Akira countered and began to calm his laughter down. "You're a fucking petty bitch on woe is me for I suffered and lost just like everyone else did!" Akira laughed out loud which served to further enrage Midori here.
"Shut up!" Midori snapped as she glared at Akira but instead, he kept going.
"You got your hair dyed and decided to lash out against an innocent kid cry me a river." Akira said as Midori was glaring at Akira for belittling her suffering. "News flash Midori everyone here on this flying tub lost someone or something to Third Impact." HE went on verbally tearing Midori a new one. "So, get this little girl, instead of blaming the actual people responsible for it you decided to lash out, disobey orders, and sabotage a mission just to get back at Shinji." Akira said and thus Midori had enough of Akira's words.
"How about your cut the holier than thou crap you fucking hypocrite!" Midori snapped as she stood up glaring at Akira. "You are the last one to lecture me about using past trauma to justify your actions!" Midori accused as Akira decided to hear what Midori had to say here. "You're a violent disobedient troublemaker and you justify it all because it was what you needed to do in order to survive!" Midori yelled as she glared at Akira with hatred. "Midori knew that with her stab wound still recovering she would be unable to do much damage to him if she tried to attack.
"The difference is I'm not lashing out for some petty revenge against some innocent kid!" Akira countered as he knew what he was and why he was the way he was. But he didn't use it as a crutch or a justified means for himself. He fights because he wants to fight, he smashes because he wasn't to smash, no justifications are needed for him.
"HE'S NOT INNOCENT!" Midori yelled standing up in a vain attempt to hold the high ground against the Kaiser Pilot. "I will never forgive him." Midori added to a seething whisper of rage.
Akira scoffed to this and then turned around to leave. "Fine but if you fuck us over again don't be surprised when you suddenly lose your head." Akira said making his threat clear, if Midori's vendetta compromises the mission again, then he will personally snuff out the girl. The cell door closed and thus Midori was once more left in isolation again.
(Meanwhile back over with Akira)
Akira was making his way through the Wundur again as he had just left the brig. As he walked, he suddenly came to a stop by a reflective surface. Glancing at it Akira saw himself there and while he didn't show it her words did hit Akira close to home. He looked at his hand knowing the amount of blood that was on it innocent and guilty all-in order to survive the crimson Hellscape that had once been Earth. Standing there for a bit Akira wondered if had things been different his and Midori's roles would have been reversed. Scoffing to this Akira clenched his fist and walked off knowing he was late for the meeting with Ritsuko about something.
Akira knew who he was and what he was, and he would keep it up. But eventually the fighting had to come to an end and when it does… where did it leave the boy.
But before Akira could ponder it any further the Wundur shook and following it was the alarms. When the Wundur had shaken Akira had stumbled and hit the wall surprised about the sudden violent shaking. "The fuck?!" Akira asked shocked over what had just happened.
"All hands to battle stations we're under attack NERV EVA unit and Nemesis Units have appeared on radar!" The intercom called out and thus Akira knew he had to get to the hanger to board the Skull Pilder and deploy Kaiser.
(Meanwhile over with Asuka)
"Shit! Shit! Shit!" Asuka cursed as she took out her communicator while running through the halls. She had been in her room when she heard Shinji got attacked by, Midori, while he had been mopping. She was on her way to visit him in the medical ward when all of a sudden, the attack began. "Get a security team over to the medical ward NERV is here for Shinji!" Asuka called out into her communicator while running through the halls.
She soon crossed paths with Eve who exited a room and joined with Asuka. "They came sooner than I had anticipated." Eve said thinking they had a few more days before NERV would attack them.
"Not so smart now are you Wonder Spawn?" Asuka quipped while they headed to the hanger to deploy the EVA and the Wingle.
"It was only one mistake." Eve said denying the fact she was wrong about NERV. "The good news however is that the Iron Maiden Unit should already be deploying now." Eve said as she kept sprinting through the halls of the Wundur.
(Meanwhile in the Medical Ward)
Sakura was on the wall phone being contacted by another area of the ship. "Yes, ma'am we'll stay put until security arrives." Sakura said as she then looked over to both Ryo and Shinji.
"NERV is attacking." Shinji said sadly as he knew this would happen. "I should never have stayed here." He said making it clear that this was his fault.
"It's not your fault Shinji." Sakura said as she prepared to bunker down with the pair. Sakura was facing away from Shinji and Ryo as the latter of the two grabbed a blunt object. "You can't be blamed for the choices of others." She said as Ryo had been approaching her from behind.
"Good to know." Ryo said right behind Sakura before he smashed the object across Sakura's head knocking her out cold.
"What?!" Shinji gasped when he saw this and in turn Shinji was next to be hit. Shinji fell off the bed as while disoriented he was still conscious. Grabbing the cuffs Ryo handcuffed Shinji and proceeded to gag his mouth. All the while Shinji was struggling to get free from Ryo as he captured him.
"Don't struggle you have an appointment with NERV." Ryo said as he intended to pass Shinji off to NERV personally.
Shinji then bit down on Ryo's hand to keep him from gagging Shinji. "Why are you doing this?!" Shinji asked as he looked shock at the sudden betrayal by Ryo.
"Gendo Ikari and NERV had the right idea, humanity is a decease and Impact was the cure." Ryo said showing that he truly hated the human race as a whole. With no way to gag Shinji Ryo was forced to make do as he grabbed a knife from Sakura's station and dragged Shinji out with his arm around Shinji's neck.
(Meanwhile on the Wundur's Hull)
The Nemesis Units flew around the Wundur taking potshots at the vessel while the Rebuilt Mk. 9 EVA stood on its hull. "Ikari-kun come." Rei-Q was heard as she tried to get Shinji to call out to her for retrieval. The Wundur and its fleet of course opened fire on the EVA but the cannon shots from the warships did little to nothing in slowing down the cyclops EVA Unit.
But as she continued her search she was soon being fired upon by stronger blasts. The shots managed to cause the EVA to stumble and looking towards the source Rei-Q saw the Iron Maiden Unit comprised of Flash, Hurricane, and Misty in their Iron Maidens.
"Take her down!" Hurricane called out as she and Flash charged in with Misty provided support fire. Rei-Q was forced to fight them as she used her spear to ward them off while trying to get Shinji to call out. With WILLE aware and on the defense, they intended to make sure NERV leaves this place without Shinji in hand.
(Meanwhile with Eve and Wingle)
Eve was in Wingle's cockpit as the Pilder was loaded into the robot demonesses crown. Once Wingle was active the lower hanger opened and from it Wingle fell out and spread her wings taking flight. Wingle flew through the sky with a large rifle in hand and opened fire against the Nemesis Units. With the ones that got close Eve was quick to cleave through them with her arm blades.
The Rifle was a creation of Jun upgraded with WILLE to provide Wingle with another means for ranged combat. Despite being Kaiser's support unit, she was still needed in battle. Flying through the sky Eve through Wingle saw the Iron Maidens fighting against Rei-Q and her rebuilt EVA Mark 9. However, she could not assist the Iron Maidens because she was needed to keep the Nemesis Units from the Wundur. So, flying around Eve continued her mission intent to stop NERV from taking Shinji away.
(In the Wundur's command deck)
"Wingle has successfully deployed into battle." Came their new communications handler as she looked towards Misato.
"Good how long before Asuka and Mari can deploy?" Misato asked as she needed EVA's on the ground now.
"Entry Plugs are loaded, and they're being moved to the top hatch." Came Makoto as he also monitored the mission.
"We still need air support." Hideki called and thus Jun smirked to that one.
"Then send Kaiser and the SKL RR." Jun said as she then grinned sadistically. She stood at the top area with Misato and Ritsuko dressed in a WILLE uniform underneath her lab coat.
"How is, a bike supposed to help us in the air?" Hideki asked but then grew quiet when he saw the grin appear.
"You'll see." Jun said and thus Misato nodded.
"Well, what are you guys waiting for get it done!" Misato called out and thus the crew got to work once more.
(Later on, the Wundur's hull)
The Iron Maiden's continued to attack Rei-Q as the EVA was outnumbered three to one. Her AT-Field helped tipped the scales, but Rei-Q knew she had a time limit to retrieve Shinji from the Wundur. Just then large bullets came flying narrowly hitting her EVA. Looking to the source she saw Unit-02 and Unit-8 charging at her firing off their guns at the enemy EVA.
"DIE! DIE! DIE!" Asuka yelled with a rifle in hand while Mari had a pistol equipped to her EVA Unit.
Rei-Q was forced to avoid the shots and jump back before slicing at the Iron Maiden's with her scythe. Once that was done, she used her AT-Field to block Asuka and Mari's shots before moving close and kicking Mari away. She then blocked Asuka's claws before pushing her back and then avoiding an attack from Hurricane. It was now five on one as the Iron Maidens and two EVA units fought against Rei-Q and her EVA. One side intent to keep Shinji safe and the other intent on abducting him.
But the Nemesis Units in the sky were making this battle difficult when they began diving and attacking the five. Thankfully help would soon arrive in the form of a certain Skull Mech and its two psychotic battle hungry pilots.
(Meanwhile at the lower hanger)
The SKL RR was ready to launch as on it was Kaiser with the Skull Pilder already attached to Kaiser. The engine of the massive motorcycle was already running as they bridge crew gave the greenlight for Kaiser to launch. The clamps came undone and soon Kaiser and the SKL RR were falling through from the sky.
"Good luck… emissaries of Hell." Misato said with the sole purpose of getting the two pilots riled up.
Just then the massive motorcycle began to convert and turned into a skeletal Pegasus that began to gallop and fly through the air. "We're no Emissaries!" Akira was heard as he and Kuzo charged into battle with Kaiser and the SKL RR at their disposal.
"We are Hell itself!" Both Akira and Kuzo announced with savage grins on their faces. Flying through the air Kaiser and its demonic stead began to assist Wingle while cleaving through the NERV Nemesis Units. With the Ganzanto in one hand and a massive appear in the other Kaiser was proving to be a formidable foe for the Nemesis Units. Kaiser then threw his spear at one of the Nemesis Units and then cleaved through it with his Ganzanto while retrieving the thrown spear before riding off through the battle. Kaiser and Wingle soon regrouped and were flying side-by-side as they went after the foes.
(Back on the Command Deck)
"Ok I'll say it." Makoto said as he and his crewmates sat there in shock to see Kaiser with his new ride. "That is one of the most metal things I've ever seen in my life." Makoto said as the rock enthusiast in him knew Heavy Metal when he saw it and Kaiser was metal.
"How is it flying I don't see any propulsion systems." Ritsuko said trying to make logical sense of that robot.
Jun in response just laughed as this caused Ritsuko to glare at the woman. "I'll tell you another time." Jun said as she then grinned. "Let Kaiser show you why he is superior to your EVA and Wundur." Jun said with a clear savage grin.
Just then Misato's console went off and in turn she answered it. "Katsuragi." Misato said as she had it set up for emergency use only.
"Ma'am Ikari is missing, and Sakura was found unconscious!" A security guard called out causing Misato to go wide eyed. "We've managed to find him he's being abducted, by Ryo." He added causing Misato to go wide eyed in panic.
"WHAT?!" Misato yelled out which got the bridge crews attention. "I want security moving in stop him at all costs!" Misato called out as she feared the worse.
(Meanwhile with Ryo and Shinji)
Security Teams had Ryo in sight as he had stolen a gun and was using it to fire at the security teams while keeping Shinji as a human shield. The boy kept struggling as Ryo dragged him towards the upper hull of the vessel.
"Ryo stop this what will Akira or Miki say?!" Shinji cried out as he tried to get free of the boy.
"They'll understand humanity needs to die!" Ryo snapped as he then got elbowed in the stomach. Ryo gritted his teeth far to use to pain before smacking Shinji against the wall before dragging him back keeping WILLE from interfering. He saw a door and proceeded to open it before entering the room. Once inside Ryo was met with a sight he did not expect to find on the other side.
"Ryo?" Miki was heard and turning towards her Ryo saw the girl in the room in shock.
"Miki don't let them in!" Ryo called out as he locked the door.
"Ryo what are you doing?!" Miki demanded as she wanted answers.
"Delivering Shinji to NERV of course!" Ryo said as he glared at Shinji.
"What why!?" Miki cried out shocked at what Ryo had just said.
"Because humanity is beyond saving you should understand that as much as I do." Ryo countered as he looked around the room for an exit as the security team began trying to force open the door.
"What? How can you say that?!" Miki responded and thus Ryo rolled his eyes.
"I don't have time to argue this, help me get him ready the EVA pilot is calling to him I'm going to make sure he responds." Ryo said and in turn Miki looked shock and in turn looked at Ryo.
"Ryo stop!" Miki cried out and in turn tackled Ryo off of Shinji.
"Miki!" Shinji called as Miki tried to pin Ryo.
"Ryo you need to stop this isn't you!" She cried out but then Ryo roared and forced Miki off of himself.
"No but it needs to be done!" Ryo said as he then pinned Miki to the wall causing her pain. "Now stop making me do this to you and cooperate!" Ryo snapped as Miki was wide eyed at his words.
'Your doing this to yourself.' The Voice of Slum King echoed in Miki's mind from the time where he had tortured her. 'Cooperate and you'll be ending this pain.' He said and thus Miki gritted her teeth as her trauma reared its head. Miki then roared and forced Ryo off of her pushing her arms against the wall before using her feet to kick off of the wall. Ryo fell over and was forced to let go of Miki as she got back up. The gun Ryo stolen was discarded and acting fast Miki went to grab it.
Ryo grabbed her by her leg and forced her down before going for the Gun. He then had an idea just as the door was forced open. Acting fast Ryo charged at Miki and held her at gun point stopping the guards in their tracks.
"Ikari call the EVA pilot out and Miki won't get hurt!" Ryo called out as the crew saw he had a new hostage. When Ryo saw WILLE Security trying to move towards Shinji Ryo fired off a bullet and stopped them before pointing it back at Miki. "Nobody moves!" Ryo roared out knowing Miki was a viable EVA Pilot. "Unless you want to lose a potential EVA Pilot then everyone stays where they are!" Ryo called out as Miki was unable to get herself free.
"Don't do it, Shinji!" Miki cried out as Shinji stood there in shock to this. Ryo in response to this smacked Miki with his gun and then glared at Shinji.
"Do it! Call the clone and Miki goes free!" Ryo called out glaring at Shinji.
"How can you do this she's your friend!" Shinji cried out horrified that Ryo was doing this to his friend.
"She's doing it to herself, she doesn't know any better and NERV has the right idea for instigating impact wiping out a putrid race like humanity!" Ryo yelled as Shinji was stuck not sure what he should do. If Miki dies, then Akira loses his closest friend, and it will be all Shinji's fault again.
He heard the WILLE Agents calling for backup as the situation was escalating for them. Shinji saw no way out he wasn't about to let innocent people die for him. "I'm sorry." Shinji said while looking down knowing he had no other choice. So, with tears in his eyes Shinji raised his head and made the call. "I'M HERE AYAMAMI!" Shinji called and right after the wall burst apart and from it The Mark 8 EVA was there its singular eye turning to face them.
The crash caused everyone to scatter as Ryo was forced to drop Miki freeing her. The Security detail managed to reorganize themselves before charging and pinning down Ryo to keep him from making an escape. Shinji in response once Miki was free ran towards the WILLE Security agents who fired at the EVA to keep it away from Shinji as he ran towards them. Seeing Shinji was running and knowing she had little time before her foes continued their attack Rei-Q didn't wait for Shinji to come to her. Instead, Rei-Q reached in and grabbed Shinji before he could get away from her.
Shinji was caught off guard by this as he struggled to get free from the EVA Units form grip. Seeing he could not escape Shinji knew he had to die now. "Take the shot! Take me out now!" Shinji called out knowing he had to die to stop Gendo from acquiring him.
The Agents hesitated and that was the chance Rei-Q needed. Getting out and rising up Mari and Asuka charged in firing at Rei-Q taking out her head while the tendrils on her back formed into a booster rocket. They were trying to stop her from escaping with Shinji. At the same time Rei-Q was holding Shinji close to protect him from any stray shots made. They were all moving in on Rei-Q, but they were not fast enough as she then took off to the sky escaping with Shinji in hand.
"NO!" Hurricane called out as Misty, Asuka, and Mari in response fired upon the escaping EVA Unit and pilot.
Seeing this Kaiser and Wingle gave chase as Kuzo took control of Kaiser. Chasing after the EVA the two opened fire on it intent on clipping its wings. Kaiser opened fire with his breast trigger while Wingle fired off her rifle against the EVA Unit. But as they got close tragedy struck when two more Nemesis Units flew in and hit Kaiser and Wingle knocking them both off course. Kaiser managed to hang on as did Wingle but with a burst of speed Rei-Q made her escape. The Nemesis Units did the same and flew away from the scene now that their mission was completed.
But it was clear what happened here, Gendo and NERV had claimed a victory… he has Shinji in his possession.
"Dammit!" Akira cursed as he slammed his hand against his controls while Kuzo growled out. Eve for her part just looked away and grunted knowing that she had failed her mother to protect Shinji.
(Scene Break later in Misato's office)
Misato, Ritsuko, Akira, Asuka, Mari, Kuzo, and Eve all stood in Misato's office as they went over what had just happened. Clean up was already underway as was patching up the hole Rei-Q had made in the Wundur.
"Dammit we blew it!" Asuka snapped as she punched the wall with justified rage.
"Why would Ryo do this?" Akira asked as he looked to the side arms grossed and a glare in his eyes.
"We might find out after a full psychological evaluation at the moment we have him restrained in solitary confinement." Ritsuko said also upset by what had happened.
"So, what's the plan of getting Puppy boy back?" Mari asked as they needed to rescue Shinji.
"First we need to repair the damages, and then we make the attack." Misato said knowing where Rei-Q was taking Shinji.
"Didn't we lose track of her after she escaped?" Kuzo asked knowing full well that the team lose Rei-Q's signal when she ran off.
"It's obvious she's going to NERV HQ." Eve said making it clear that Rei-Q was returning to her master like the loyal dog she was.
"Even then we need to be careful about this." Misato added as they needed all the backup they can get.
Just then the door opened and to everyone's shock they saw Miki walking in. But before anyone could scold her for barging in Miki then made her way to Misato and slammed her hands on the table.
"I'm in." Miki said as she shocked the group. "I'll pilot the EVA." Miki said making it clear that she was going to fight for WILLE. Everyone was shocked by her decision even Akira who knew her well. Miki had thought long and hard about it but after what Ryo did… after Rei-Q took Shinji her choice was made. Miki was tired of being weak so with this new resolve she was going to take the chance to stand by Akira's side and face her demons. Everyone looked between each other and saw that Miki had made up her mind and if the start her training in earnest they might be able to tip the scales in their favor against NERV.
"Are you sure about this, Miki?" Akira asked with concern for the girl.
"Yes, I'm sure." Miki said as she looked to Akira. "I… I don't want to be left behind or weak anymore." Miki said as she looked to the group. "And now that NERV has Shinji we need all the guns we can throw to stop Fourth Impact." Miki said and they all knew she was right.
"Well, another unit will help things along." Kuzo admitted as he leaned against the wall. "If she wants to jump into the jaws of Hell then she better be ready to tear out that dogs intestines with her teeth." Kuzo added and thus it was clear that the stakes were higher. But with Kaiser at their disposal WILLE will stand victorious and take back their world.
(Meanwhile over in the Hanger)
Jun stood in front of her now completed EVA unit as the Doctor who created Kaiser grin savagely to it. The only part that was revealed to the crew right now was a part of the emerald-green armor that made up its form. Jun was not a fan of the EVA, but she knew since it was originally one of her creations it will prove to be superior, while not superior to her Kaiser it would be an apex amongst the other EVA Units. She then let out a laugh of a mad scientist as she knew that this war with NERV was about to change with Kaiser's power.
(Meanwhile in the Wundur's Brig)
Ryo sat in a padded room designed for someone like him in mind. It was solitary confinement and he sat there alone in a straight jacket. "They'll see I'm right." Ryo said as he sat on the floor waiting for the first of many visitors. He was right and humanity was slanted for death there was no redemption and soon NERV will do what is needed to end this plague.
(TBC)
ESKK: Another chapter done and will soon be followed by reviews. So again, leave reviews before leaving and I will again say to everyone, ja-ne.