As the Godslayer descended into the designated landing zone, the sheer weight of the massive machine caused the ground to tremble beneath it. The platform slowly lowered, pulling the colossal weapon deep into the underground headquarters of a military installation completely separate from NERV or SEELE. This was where the real magic began—far from prying eyes, in a place designed to house weapons of unimaginable power.
The moment the Godslayer touched down, a series of mechanical arms and robotic systems swarmed over it, running diagnostics, refueling its systems, and preparing for whatever upgrades were necessary for the next engagement. The facility buzzed with quiet efficiency, as though it had done this a thousand times before.
As the hatch of the Godslayer opened, Quest Strother stepped out, his dark eyes scanning the familiar surroundings. He was tall, muscular, with dark hair tucked beneath the hood of his jacket, and a mask covering half of his face. His presence was commanding, despite his youth—only 18 or 19—but he was a figure who commanded respect and fear across every continent. His reputation had preceded him, and everyone in the room knew it.
He moved with purpose, his footsteps echoing in the vast space as he made his way across the hangar toward two figures waiting for him: a military general, standing tall with his hands clasped behind his back, and a female scientist, her arms crossed and an amused smile playing on her lips. Quest knew them both well, far too well.
The general was stern, battle-hardened, with an air of authority that few dared to challenge. He nodded curtly as Quest approached. The female scientist, however, had a more casual demeanor. She wore a lab coat, her sharp eyes gleaming behind her glasses as she regarded Quest with something close to admiration—or maybe curiosity.
"Back in one piece, I see," the scientist said with a smirk, her tone laced with a mix of teasing and approval. She had seen Quest return from countless missions, but this time was different. The Godslayer had been used in open combat—something they had all known would happen sooner or later.
Quest stopped in front of them, his gaze cool and focused. "I wasn't expecting the cleanup to be that easy," he said, his deep, cold voice cutting through the air. "But the Evas—they're not ready for what's coming. They'll hold up for a while, but not forever."
The general nodded in agreement. "NERV is playing their own game, but they're not our concern. You're here for a different fight." His voice was gruff, a man of few words who trusted Quest completely.
The scientist raised an eyebrow. "You've already tested the Godslayer in combat, Quest. But this is just the beginning. We've installed everything you asked for in Godslayer 2.0, and when you're ready, it'll be waiting."
Quest nodded, looking toward the massive form of the Godslayer being prepped in the background. The prototype had done its job, but he knew the real challenge was still ahead. There were things far worse than the Angels on the horizon—things the world wasn't prepared for.
"I work alone. You know that," Quest said firmly, his eyes flicking between the general and the scientist. "NERV, SEELE—they're just obstacles. My fight is against something else entirely."
The general gave a small, approving grunt. "That's why we let you do things your way. We don't interfere with your missions, and you keep delivering results. The higher-ups are happy enough with that arrangement."
The scientist smiled, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "And I make sure you've got the best toys to play with." She glanced over at the Godslayer with clear pride in her work. "The real one's almost ready. I'm sure you'll love it."
Quest gave her a brief nod, his expression unreadable behind the mask. "I'll be ready when it's time." He turned to leave, his mind already moving beyond this encounter, focused on the larger battle ahead. The next step would be far more dangerous, but he was always ready.
As he walked away, heading toward the secluded quarters reserved for him in the facility, the general exchanged a glance with the scientist.
"How long do you think he'll stay with us?" the general asked, his voice low.
The scientist shrugged, still smiling. "He's not ours to keep. Quest Strother works alone. We're just along for the ride."