Voltron You Can (NOT) Defend
ESKK: Time for chapter 6 lets get this thing started.
(Start Misato Wundur unknown Dream)
Misato woke up in what appeared to be a white void of sorts. At first, she suspected it to be a dream, but it felt off strange even. As Misat looked around for a moment she saw the void began to change shape to make it seem like she was standing in the sky. Looking down Misato saw the water reflecting the blue sky above her but instead she looked at the face of Gendo Ikari.
She went wide eyed and stumbled back causing the water to ripple and reveal herself again. "What?" Misato asked only to be followed by whispers of many voices unknown to her. "Hello!?" Misato asked trying to find the source but found herself alone. In fact, Misato was not even sure she was dreaming anymore.
Misato walked around a bit as she glanced at her feet every so often to make sure Gendo did not reappear there. She kept walking until she found the world shifting around her buildings rising up around her from a time she had long since forgotten or so she told herself.
It looked like she was at the overlook that gave her an entire view of Tokyo-3. Misato had almost forgotten the fortress city after all this time. But then to her shock a beam of energy came down from above blasting everything and destroying it all. Misato was knocked down by the winds much to her shock and as she looked, she saw Tokyo-3 in ruins before her eyes.
It soon got worse as the scene changed and to her shock she saw Village-3 was burning the Wundur destroyed nearby, and its people being taken by otherworldly invaders. Then to her shock she saw Kaji her son in chains as he fell to the ground which then had him get beaten down by one of the soldiers.
"No get away from him!" Misato yelled only to crash into what she realized was an AT-Field or a version of one. "What?!" Misato gasped slamming her hands against the field, but it would not break. Kaji saw her for a moment and to Misato's shock glared at her and spoke the words that would haunt her.
"This is your fault." Kaji Jr said causing Misato to gasp and slam harder against the field. She then saw Shinji on his knees with Rei as they were in pillories beaten and broken. By the looks of it Misato saw this to be an execution of some kind… or maybe a sacrifice.
Leading them was Midori as and Mana as they glared down at Shinji and Rei. "Captain good of you to join us." Mana said as Misato hesitantly entered the field of vision.
"We lost… because of this brat we lost it all." Midori said glaring at Shinji who had a look of defeat. "At least this way humanity can survive, better to be enslaved then to be indebted to him." Midori growled as Misato looked and saw Asuka was tied up. Her left eye was swollen shut from bruising while Sakura was holding on to her brothers hand with a look of horror.
"Good thing we got him when we did now, we can take out the final loose end to Impact." Ritsuko said as she walked in cleaning her hands. Misato dared to look to the area behind Ritsuko and then to her utter horror saw a small body being burned and by the looks of it the child did not die painlessly. "At least this way we can organize a resistance once we get our Third EVA pilot to comply." Ritsuko said before she held a gun to Misato. "Shall you do the honors, all it will be is a quick pull of the trigger." Ritsuko said as she handed the gun to Misato.
Misato looked at the gun and hesitantly took it realizing what this was. They were executing Shinji and Rei, and by the looks of it Toji and Kensuke tried to stop it. Asuka was beaten within an inch of her life. But the worst of it all WILLE killed Meisha and it broke Shinji beyond repair.
"Do it." A new voice spoke as Misato saw to her horror another her, the Captain of WILLE goggles and all. "Get revenge Misato, against NERV, against the Angels, and keep avenging burn the galaxy if you have to until you get your dues." The dark mirror of Misato said as she looked in horror. "It's easy." The Dark Misato said taking the current Misato's arms and guiding her hands. "Just aim, center the target and pull the trigger." The Dark Misato said as Misato was breathing hard wondering if she could honestly do it.
As she looked into Shinji's dead eyes, she saw he accepted this fate. His daughter his precious daughter was taken from him. His wife was broken before his very eyes and his friends were all killed. He had nothing left to live for. As Misato saw this, she began to receive memories of a kinder time. Shinji moving in with Misato welcoming him with open arms. Their day to day lives together, Asuka moving in, working together to fight the Angels, and all the kinder times they had. She looked ready to pull but she was hesitating, and the look Shinji was giving her showed he was ready to die.
"Don't let anything get in your way." The Dark Misato said as she began to reach for her goggles. "Not even your own mortality." The evil version of Misato said and removed her visor to reveal a large chasm where her eyes should be showing this version gave up her humanity to get more power. Misato was horrified, was this what she was becoming? Was this her fate?
No… No. NO! Misato acted fast and pointed the gun under her chin she'd rather die then let herself become that. Before anyone could stop her or even tried Misato pulled the trigger and when she did no bullet came out but the world around her shattered. Even her clothing had vanished only to be replaced by a toga commonly found in Ancient Greek Society. Misato was surprised by this, but she then saw that Shinji, Asuka, Rei, Kensuke, and Toji were all still here.
Then the five's bodies vanished only to be replaced by lions. Shinji was replaced by a black lion, Asuka by a red lion, Rei by a blue lion, Kensuke by a green lion, and Toji by a yellow lion. The Black one towered over the others on its ledge showing itself to be this pride of lions leader. The Lions were growling at Misato who oddly enough didn't feel any fear here. She soon felt something rub against her leg and then looking she saw to her shock a large white lion had arrived.
The Lion walked passed her before it stopped and looked back at her. It then gestured with its head to follow and thus Misato did so. Walking towards the lion Misato was curious as to what was going on and why she was following this ethereal Apex Predator. She kept following it until she arrived in what looked to be a massive field. Misato saw the grass and trees ripple as the wind blew past her causing her hair to billow a bit. Soon the White Lion turned around to face her as Misato got worried that it might try to pounce her.
Instead, the White Lion proceeded to roar and with it its body vanished into particles of light that sailed up to the sky. When it did Misato was met with the sight of a massive vessel rivalling the Wundur flying upward towards the sky. For a moment Misato lost it in the light but soon it changed into something else. She was then met with the lions roar again as soon a giant of steel stood in the light one Misato could not get a clear view of.
She began to reach out and when she did for a brief moment, she saw herself in the command deck of a new vessel. And with it she saw a flash and an image of something she could not get a view. Soon enough the world around her vanished as Misato felt a pull from her body.
(Misato's quarters Waking World Wundur)
Misato's eyes shot open as she shot up from her bed gasping and finding herself alone in her quarters. Misato looked at her hand and saw it was shaking before she felt around her head for any bullet holes, none. That dream it was so intense and surreal that she found herself at a lost.
Was it a sign? Was it her own guilt mind torturing her? Or was it something more. But those images those visions what was she becoming. What had she allowed herself to become in these past fourteen years. Misato laid back down and stared up at the ceiling trying to wrap her mind over what she had seen. However, one thought one feeling invaded her heart and mind.
"I miss my kids." Misato finally said… no she finally admitted it to herself. Kids, plural meaning multiple offspring. Misato had two maybe three if you counted her. Two of them were surrogates and one of them was by blood. She betrayed two of them one as a scapegoat, one to be a tool. But her child by blood she abandoned him. She can't hide behind empty excuses anymore Misato had abandoned her son to be raised by someone other than her.
"What have I done? What have I become?" Misato asked herself as she wished Kaji was here he would probably know what to say and do to knock some sense into her. "I'm a monster." Misato finally admitted and she hated how true it was. However never say that humans are incapable of change because that would be a lie.
(Meanwhile Wundur Secret Meeting Ritsuko)
Ritsuko stood before a small group of members of the Wundur crew those she had no choice to bring into her circle for their mutiny. As much as Ritsuko didn't want to admit it Misato was compromised and had orchestrated the deception to protect Ikari's daughter from what was needed.
"I don't believe it." Mana said as she glared at the evidence before her. "She's risking all of our lives because she cant swallow her nerves and do what is needed." Mana growled as she crossed her arms and leaned against the wall no doubt upset with what Misato did.
"She's a traitor is what she is." Midori said while Hideki scowled but kept quiet next to the pink head.
"She's not a traitor." Ritsuko said defending Misato even though she was going to overthrow her position as Captain. "She's compromised and because of this she is unwilling to do what is needed." Ritsuko said knowing that they needed to carry out this coup and maintain control until Misato can see reason. "However, we don't know how many loyalists she has at her disposal and even then, we can't run the risk of her discovering our plot either." Ritsuko said as everyone paid attention to Ritsuko who would be next in line once they remove have Misato from her position.
"So, what do you suggest we do?" Sumire asked knowing that if they don't take out the brat soon then they may as well be dead. Sumire knew if that girl is as connected to Unit-01 as the data showed then she was one temper tantrum away from triggering Impact.
"We need to gather a black ops unit to acquire the girl." Ritsuko said as they needed a team to do this quietly and without alerting her protectors if possible. "At the same time, we need to get Misato out of her position." Ritsuko said as she had a few ideas on how they can do this, but it was certainly going to be tricky.
"We may need to plant evidence against her." Hideki offered as the solution did sound feasible to Ritsuko. "It's just so no one questions what we're doing." Hideki added which Ritsuko then began to take into consideration. It was looking like it was their best option at the moment even if Ritsuko didn't like it.
"You may be right." Ritsuko said but was still processing the best course of action to carry out their coup.
"Are we sure that talking to her won't work?" Koji asked showing he had concerns about carrying out such extreme measures against their commanding officer.
"We don't have much of a choice I tried to argue this, but she would not listen." Ritsuko said knowing that for the future of mankind Misato needed to be removed from her position so they can eliminate the threat Meisha Ikari posed to them.
"The best way to get to the girl without fear of her parents and their friends is to have Voltron away from the Castle." Mana said knowing if they tried to take the girl while they were in the castle of lions then the operation would be a total wash.
"My thoughts exactly." Ritsuko said knowing that it was their best bet. "But once they find out we'll likely be facing a pair of angry parents." Ritsuko added knowing that if they did not handle this precisely then Voltron would likely be used against WILLE.
"We need to do something." Sumire said aware that if the girl feels threatened, she can deploy her AT-Field to protect herself from possible dangers. Mari had learned that the hard way when she got to close to her before.
"Dr. Akagi." Mana began as she cut in on the conversation. "What if we used the other base?" Mana asked as Ritsuko looked to the pilot knowing she was one of the few people aware of her small side project.
"Other base?" Midori asked as she raised a brow to Ritsuko and Mana before Ritsuko sighed.
"After WILLE formed we only had one available EVA Pilot because of this we were at a disadvantage." Ritsuko began as she got down to tell the Conspiracy this information. "We needed more pilots and had done a small recruitment run for said pilots." Ritsuko said but then Sumire raised her hand with concern.
"If that's the case, why is it, we only have Mana?" Sumire asked and thus Mana growled to this with a bitter tone.
"Because they were all cowardly traitors." Mana snapped as Ritsuko glared at Mana for that one. Though her accusation was spot on adding that they were being selfish as well to refuse WILLE who's needs superseded their own. After all they were fighting for humanities survival.
"Many times, over the pilots and/or the pilots parents refused to our requests." Ritsuko said calmly to the crew in here. "We have to take extreme measures we needed pilots and they were being unreasonable in refusing us." Ritsuko said before she got down to the big reveal. "At the moment, the other pilots are being held at the 'Other Base,' until they agree to aid us in our war for survival against NERV." Ritsuko said as the entire conspiracy crew heard what she had said. Ritsuko while she said all of this had her hand resting on a sidearm just in case the crew lashed out against her. After all, Ritsuko had seen that while her choices were morally and ethically questionable, she did what was needed to secure the survival of the entire human race.
"I'm surprised Misato agreed to this." Midori said as she found it odd that Misato would use such extreme methods but refused to kill the brats bastard.
"She didn't, Misato doesn't know about this and for the time being its best we keep it that way" Ritsuko said calmly surprising the crew further with this sudden revelation.
"WILLE needs pilots and if we need pilots, we'll get them." Mana said with a scowl on her face. "They can blame us for their situation all they want but they are there because they refused their duty, they have only themselves to blame." Mana said recalling two particular girls who were in that facility after they refused being drafted.
"I may not like it… but you have a point." Koji said as he felt it was for the best. But even Koji accepts that there was likely a special place in hell for them for doing this to those kids all for refusing WILLE. "We need pilots and those kids, and their parents were being selfish and cowards to deny what they can do." Koji added as Sumire nodded in agreement with the man.
"I may not be overly fond of EVA Pilots, but I can't deny that we need them, and they should pilot regardless, if they want to or not." Midori said showing that Ritsuko had her inner circle amongst the crew.
"Then in that case we better get to work." Ritsuko said making it clear as day that WILLE was on the path to its own civil war just like with NERV over fourteen years ago.
(Scene Break Castle of Lions)
In the medical ward Meisha was in a scanner as the crew was doing a deep scan of Meisha's biology. After the battle Romelle informed them of what had happened to Meisha after the resonance signal went out towards her. The fact the angel part of her DNA responded to it did not paint a good image for the parents.
Shinji and Asuka looked worried as the scanner went over Meisha and displayed her biological makeup on the screen nearby for the parents to see. "Well?" Asuka asked as she sounded worried even scared for Meisha and her wellbeing.
"Asuka…" Allura said not sure how to say this as it was obvious what was wrong with Meisha. Even Acxa and Ezor were hesitant to give Asuka and Shinji the facts. After all, how would you feel if your child were born with DNA of the same enemy who tried to kill you 14 years ago.
"It's true, isn't it?" Shinji asked as he looked to Allura knowing the silence was all the answer he needed.
"Yes… I'm so sorry." Allura said as she had to say it. "I'm no expert on the subject but Meisha Angel DNA is enough that if she comes into contact with Lilith then she and Lilith would enter the pseudo Deus state and trigger impact." Allura revealed as Meisha stood in the scanner curious and wondering why she needed to come and see the doctor all of a sudden today.
"Is it enough that she may respond to the signal Lilith sends?" Shiro asked giving his own concern on the matter.
"No in fact it doesn't even register to her, but the point still stands… if WILLE finds out about this they will NOT hesitate." Allura said as this became another secret for them to hide from WILLE all so they can protect young Meisha.
"Over my dead body." Shinji said with a growl as it was a sentiment, they all shared. For Shinji he rather keep the beast inside for his child's sake. But if push came to shove Shinji was more than willing to let the animal out of its cage.
At the same time Rei had her own concerns. "I fear that is their intention." Rei said knowing that WILLE's more extreme members would not hesitate to kill Shinji if they were ever to be given the chance to do so. This put a great deal of concern for the safety of her half-brother and her niece.
However, Asuka was in shock as she moved towards a chair and sat down shocked and scared in the worst way possible. She was shocked that her daughter Meisha was being denied the normal life that Asuka wanted to give to her. Asuka was scared that she might not be able to protect her daughter from those who wanted to see to her demise. It was her fault this was all Asuka's fault and deep down she knew this fact.
"Asuka?" Shinji asked worried for Asuka noting the shocked look that was on her face.
"This is my fault." Asuka said barely above a whisper when she said it. "I did this to her." Asuka said as it seems her fears and concerns for Meisha had resurfaced with this revelation.
"No Asuka you didn't do anything wrong to Meisha." Shinji said assuring Asuka that Meisha's condition was not her fault.
"Yes, I did!" Asuka snapped her anger returning. "I was the one who was tainted I was the one the Angel tried to play body snatcher with." Asuka said listing off the reasons why she believes this was her fault. "Because of me Meisha now has to endure my curse." Asuka said with a bitter tone unable to hide her emotions as her issues have affected the most precious thing she had in her life.
Shinji sighed and sat next to Asuka for a moment watching as everyone else stayed back to keep Meisha distracted. "You know I still remember when Meisha came into the Universe." Shinji said recalling that day fondly. "The entire time you were pregnant I kept thinking about all this stuff." Shinji said gesturing to the world around them both. "This was the sort of Universe Meisha would be born into and would have to grow up in." Shinji said before a bitter smile came on his face. "I remember how scared I was that I would be like my father that I wouldn't be good enough that I'd ruin her the same way my father ruined me." Shinji said as Asuka paid close attention to Shinji hearing her lover out.
"Those fears came hurdling at me the day you went into labor." Shinji said recalling how that played out. "You were screaming bloody murder and I was just holding your hand when the midwife told you to start pushing." Shinji said as Asuka recalled that incident how she crushed Shinji's hand and threatened to neuter him. "But then I lost my breath when I heard Meisha screaming for the first time and I was almost ready to run… but then when she was placed in my arms everything just sort of clicked into place." Shinji said as Asuka knew what Shinji was talking about.
"Here she was this tiny, defenseless, and innocent child in my arms." Shinji said making gestures with his arms recalling the day Meisha was placed there. "I knew right then and there I would do anything to protect her." Shinji said recalling the greatest day of his life the day Meisha had come into the world.
"I remember she was so small and so heavy." Asuka said but then chuckled recalling those memories of her baby. "Or maybe that was just how tired I was." Asuka said remembering her baby girl.
"I figured I held her and looked at her and I just knew that one day she was going to grow up to become something amazing." Shinji said recalling that day with pure fondness. "And it was our job as her parents to make sure she had the skill, knowledge, and heart to reach those heights." Shinji said making Asuka smile and chuckle a bit.
"I'm scared… I'm scared of ruining her… and yet I'm scared for her." Asuka said not wanting Meisha to feel the fear she was feeling.
"I know… but for her sake… we have to be better." Shinji said which Asuka agreed knowing that Meisha's future was riding on the couple.
"Yeah." Asuka said and in turn they heard a cheer and looking to the source they saw Meisha enjoying a lollipop. Likely it was stored away for when the children visited the doctor and behaved.
"There it is that smile the smile of a child's wonder." Shinji said sounding a bit wise when he spoke.
"And a wonder that we need to protect at all costs." Asuka said agreeing with Shinji that as Meisha's parents they had to be better. There was truly something powerful about the joy a child's love brings to your life. Taking a deep breath Asuka focused her heart and knew that she and Shinji were on the same page. "Gendo knows what she has but he doesn't know its inside her." Asuka said looking to her daughter with worry. "We both know that it's only a matter of time before he performs a full on assault for her." Asuka said which means that they needed to strike Gendo before he strikes them.
"My thoughts exactly." Shinji said as he swore nothing would harm Meisha. And if by some horrible accident she is harmed Shinji would make Impact look like firecracker in comparison to what he would do to those responsible.
Just then Romelle ran into the room in a clear panic her eyes widen, and her breath ragged. "Toji come quick, Hikari's has gone into labor!" Romelle said much to everyone's shock and concern. This got Toji to bolt after Romelle as the other Paladins looked to each other.
"Asuka with me, Kensuke Rei gather the kids and watch them!" Shinji said before Shiro could say anything about it.
"I was… going to say that." Shiro said surprised how quick Shinji was on the uptake. Everyone got moving as they knew Hikari was having her second child right now. The irony did not elude Asuka when she thought of that.
(Later in the Medical Ward)
Hikari was on a bed her breathing ragged as she was being prepped for delivery. Acxa came in with blankets while Ezor brought a large basin of hot water. Zethrid oddly enough brought weapons to this which was not welcomed.
"Zethrid why, every time why?!" Acxa asked glaring at Zethrid for bringing the sword to birth that is supposed to be focused on keeping the mother calm.
"that child coming out one way or another, its going to come out a fighter!" Zethrid said as the group all glared at her for doing this. She had done this for the past four births and they sure as hell wasn't going to sit around with the fifth.
(Meanwhile Outside the Delivery Room)
Asuka, Shinji, and Toji arrived as Asuka was there because Hikari was her friend and Shinji was here because Toji was his friend. They haven't heard the screaming yet, but they did see the door opened up for some reason. The next thing they saw was Zethrid being sent flying out of the delivery room with a panic yell.
Shinji, Asuka, and Toji saw her on the floor as she rolled over to her back. "Again?" Asuka asked recalling how Zethrid brought a freaking broadsword during her daughters delivery.
"Shut up." Zethrid scowled as she then got up and made her way out and back to her station onboard.
"Come on Toji lets go sit down." Shinji said guiding Toji to the chairs set up who awkwardly nodded to this. Toji was after all about to see his second son born so he was rightful scared of what may occur. This was going to be a long delivery, but Shinji and Asuka were here for the parents. Plus, Romelle was on the case, back on the colony she had helped with several deliveries and was currently the most experienced one who can handle this birth.
Romelle had after all delivered each of the Paladins children since everyone started pairing off. With Romelle as the midwife, they can rest easy for a safe birth, but that didn't make the waiting any less the worst part here.
(Scene Break over at NERV)
Hovering outside NERV main base a large ship was seen one of alien origin. It was one of Lotor's ships that he had used during his original rise to power. It now served as flag ship to one of his fleets as two other Galra dreadnaughts were hovering with it. It seemed that Lotor had enough of waiting around and decided to send someone down to deal with the issues from Gendo.
Gendo sat in his office his hands interlocked in front of his mouth as his eyes were hidden by his visor. Now this seemed to be his normal day for many with his hands interlocked to keep all manner of intrusion out of his mind. However, Gendo's mouth was shown to have his teething grinding in frustration over something.
Fuyutsuki was also there with him as the old man sat on a hovering platform in the darkened room. The old man looked worried and for good reason as he now saw that Gendo's mistake when it came to dealing with the Galra Empire. They sent down envoy's to deal with things planet side proving they were in the Solar System right this moment.
Entering the room Fala walked in accompanied by another Galra in similar armor signaling her rank as a General. It was hard to tell who she was seeing as she was currently wearing a helmet to go with her armor that hid her identity. The fact she followed Fala showed that this armored woman was second in command to Fala.
"Gendo Ikari of NERV Emperor Lotor is most displeased." Fala said as she entered the darkened room glaring at Gendo. "We left Earth alone under your watch, but the tributes of Quintessence has been lacking." Fala said glaring at Gendo who was reminded of Rei showing that Lotor had made his own batch of clones. "We were promised a more substantial tribute of Quintessence." Fala added reminding Gendo that while he had all this power it was only under the purview of Lotor and the Galra Empire.
"I know what was promised." Gendo said trying to talk his way out of this. "But we are running out if we continue on this path there won't be enough to sustain this world." Gendo said only for Fala to glare before she made her way over to Gendo. She then brought her sword down upon Gendo who then reacted by projecting his AT-Field much to Fuyutsuki's concern. However, Fala projected her own Field causing the two fields to cancel each other out and for the blade to come close to taking Gendo's head.
"Excuses will not be tolerated." Fala said as she glared at Gendo. "I have been sent here to ensure that the Quintessence we were promised is delivered on time." Fala said making it clear that Gendo served Lotor. "Our deal to trade the knowledge of the Elder Giants will be upheld but only if you can provide us the Quintessence we seek." Fala said but had more to say on the matter. "If you fail to provide… then we will simply take it and all the technology of the Elder Giants in your possession." Fala said causing Gendo to grit his teeth harder despite the fact he had a sword pointed at him.
"We have a method to acquire more Quintessence then we were providing previously." Gendo said as this got Fala to looked over to Kala for a moment. Fala stepped back but still held a firm grip on her sword.
"Go on." Fala said wanting to hear how Gendo planned to talk his way through this one.
"Sealed under our very feet are a pair of lances stabbed into the corpse of an EVA." Gendo said explaining what was going on as Fuyutsuki looked even more nervous. "The Lances when used in conjunction with the Elder Giant technology, our EVA's, can open a breach into the Gate of Guff the Quintessence field as you called it." Gendo said which Fala raised a brow to this with curiosity.
Fala and Kala both looked to Gendo for a moment before Fala turned to the entry way. "Tabris is this true?" Fala asked and thus a young man with pale skin, red eyes like Fala, and silver hair then hovered in on another hovering platform.
"It's true every word." Tabris said as he was dressed in a school uniform with his hands in his pocket. "If we can get more Quintessence, we might be able to accelerate the process to finish the incubation of Unit-13." Tabris added and thus Fala took a moment to consider both Gendo and Tabris words.
"Kala remain with Tabris and learn all of the local operations. I will contact Emperor Lotor to inform him of what we have learned." Fala said before she stepped back and sheathed her sword. "Once you are done begin the transport of our troops, I want no attempt of deception from Gendo Ikari." Fala said and thus Kala saluted to Fala.
"Vrepit sa." Kala said before she then took her leave of them.
Once they were alone Fala then glared at Gendo. "If this is an attempt to deceive us you will be punished accordingly." Fala said before she proceeded to take her leave with Kala and Tabris in tow.
Once they were gone Fuyutsuki made his concerns known to him. "Your playing a dangerous game Ikari." Fuyutsuki said as he knew how bad this would turn out for them if they make a mistake. "They are not like SEELE and considering what they have at their disposal we might not be able to salvage ourselves from it." Fuyutsuki said knowing that if the Galra catch win of Gendo's true intentions they will not be happy about any of it.
"But if we give them reason to trust our words… they will support us." Gendo said showing that he was banking it on Unit-13's success.
"They have a better understanding of the relics we barely understand ourselves." Fuyutsuki said showing the concerns he had here. If something went wrong, then he feared Gendo would move to open the Black Coffin. Every Relic they found that mentioned the Black Coffin said the same thing, DO NOT OPEN IT. Whatever is inside had even the aliens who left behind these relics afraid. But judging by the silence Gendo was not listening or if he was, he didn't care. Giving a defeated sigh Fuyutsuki knew there was no point in trying to convince Gendo to stop this path.
"Fuyutsuki." Gendo began as this drew the old man's attention. "We must adapt and as much as I abhor admitting it, we need the Galra at the moment." Gendo said making it clear on where he stood. "But make no mistake they are playing into our hands as we speak." Gendo said showing he already had a plan in play.
Upon hearing this revelation Fuyutsuki began to grow wary of what Gendo was up to. "Ikari… what are you scheming?" Fuyutsuki asked with clear concern.
"Scheming… no, this is a gamble one that I must make to attain victory." Gendo said showing that he was cornered in this nefarious game. After all its hardly a gamble if you knew you would win in the end. So, for Gendo to admit that he was making a gamble suggested that he was being cornered by his scenario. "For the time being we must leave Bardiel be and focus our attention on the 12th Angel." Gendo said knowing that they needed an Angels core in order to awaken Unit-13 and open the Gates.
"So, the Galra has likely delivered to us an understudy to take your sons place." Fuyutsuki said knowing the plan hinged on Shinji piloting EVA.
"Yes, now my sons role is to fail in his foolishness to stand against us." Gendo said showing how he planned to adapt to the changing scenario. "If all goes as it should then the Third Children will be broken by his own failures." Gendo said showing what was happening. "If we break him then we break Voltron." Gendo said revealing the cruelty he would inflict on his own son.
All Fuyutsuki could do was sigh in sadness as he knew Yui would not approve of what Gendo was planning to do to her son. But Fuyutsuki did not have the power to stop Gendo he was too old to tired to fight. But most of all he too wanted to be reunited with Yui to apologize to her for being a weak old man. It was funny if you really thought about it, all this began with Yui and would likely end with her. And if it means death… well Fuyutsuki knew that there was a special place in Hell waiting for him. His inaction to stop Gendo would likely doom humanity just as it has already damned his soul to suffer eternal torment.
But then something occurred to Fuyutsuki mainly with how Shinji had grown. What if the foolishness that Gendo viewed in the boy was something else. What if the desire to stop Gendo had stemmed from a place that would push Shinji beyond himself to keep fighting even when face with an impact. The boy had clearly shown it as did Asuka when she chose to play the decoy for Bardiel.
'Did Shinji and Asuka have a child?' Fuyutsuki wondered as he thought about it. The angel could not be separated from Asuka without detrimental harm to her. But what if the Angel found another way to escape from within Asuka. If Asuka had been pregnant while host to Bardiel then in all likelihood Bardiel may have used the pregnancy and the resulting offspring to escape. But if that were the case then it would explain why Shinji had reason to fight, to forge a future for his child to live.
Did Gendo realize this already, if so, did he truly believe his son would not care for his offspring's wellbeing? But if he did not and learned this would Gendo truly sacrifice his own grandchild all to be with Yui? This was concerning and Fuyutsuki knew that if Gendo was allowed to proceed with this, a great deal of lives would suffer for his madness.
(Scene Break Hikari's Delivery Room)
The cries of a newborn could be heard echoing through the halls as everything was ok. In a medical bed a tired Hikari was seen holding her crying newborn daughter wrapped up in a pink blanket. The baby was as healthy as an ox with lungs like a banshee.
"There, its ok now." Hikari said rocking the newborn gently as she began to calm down while resting against her mothers chest. The child clearly recognized her mothers heartbeat as it began to sooth the newborn.
"Come on in guys and meet our daughter but try to be quiet." Toji said while opening the door and allowing the group in.
"Ah isn't she a cutie." Kensuke gushed as he looked at the baby girl. "She's going to be breaking hearts left and right." Kensuke added with a laugh as Toji smirked while making a mental list of what anti-boy weapon to get.
"She already has her father eating out of her hands." Hikari joked causing Toji to deflate from his pride.
"Daddy's little girl alright." Asuka joked before elbowing Shinji. "Then again you and the stooge have that in common now." Asuka said as Meisha was the same way with Shinji.
"Speaking of what will be her name?" Rei asked curious to what they will be calling the baby going forward.
"Tsubame, her name is Tsubame Suzuhara." Hikari said introducing her daughter to her extended family.
"Tsubame… it suits her." Asuka said scratching the little ones cheek. Asuka smiled serenely at the sight of Tsubame as she wondered if or when she and Shinji would try for a second child. Shinji also smiled but knew they should give the mother and her child time to rest.
"Hey, I don't mean to be a buzz kill but we should probably leave give Hikari some time to rest." Shinji said as Rei agreed with this. Mother and child needed their time to rest.
"He's right, Hikari just went through a task that only woman can endure." Rei said and this got a laugh from Asuka.
"On that we can agree wonder girl." Asuka boasted as the group began to ease out.
"Can you guys send Tsuyoshi in on your way out?" Toji asked and the group nodded to Toji's request to send in his eldest.
"On it." Kensuke said and thus the group left. Not long after Hikari and Toji saw Tsuyoshi enter and he got a bit nervous at entering the room.
"Hey little man… come meet your sister." Toji said gesturing for Tsuyoshi to come closer to get a better look at Tsubame.
"A sister?" Tsuyoshi said as he got closer to his mothers bed to see his newborn baby sister.
"Yeah, but be gentle with her, she's sleeping." Hikari said as Tsuyoshi got a closer look at his newborn sister. Toji watched the scene play out as he saw his reason for accepting the call to become a Voltron Paladin. His family his beloved family had become his whole universe his sole reason to keep fighting even if it broke his body. Toji was always reminded of this fact and even now he was given another reminder through his daughter.
Toji would protect them with every fiber of his being. His family were his everything and he would die before he allowed any harm to come to any of them.
(Scene Break Castle Command Deck)
"You want to do what?!" Ritsuko asked as she and Misato were in a communications with the Castle of Lions as the crew explained what they planned to do.
"We plan to organize a direct assault on NERV." Shiro said getting right down to it.
"That's insane even if we have the resources for it NERV's position is tightly guarded." Ritsuko said knowing full well that they could not just charge in without a plan.
"Wasn't this the point of acquiring Unit-01?" Shinji asked with a glare at Ritsuko knowing full well that she had wanted to kill his daughter. "To get the power needed for the Wundur to challenge NERV?" Shinji added knowing that he had WILLE on that. Both sides needed something in this current discussion. Voltron needed a support ship and the Wundur is the only ship that can fill that role for the Paladins. WILLE needed a spear to push through NERV's defenses and likely end this war at the source.
However, a few members of WILLE had their doubts about placing their trust into Voltron or more specifically in Shinji. "So, after what you did 14 years ago you want us to entrust you with an important task again." Ritsuko began as she glared at Shinji. "To put our faith in you, again." Ritsuko said as Toji then stepped up glaring at Ritsuko.
"Hey, last I checked you're the ones who threw him under bus because you assholes didn't want to take your part in the blame for the Impact!" Toji snapped while pointing an accusing finger at the scientist.
"Toji!" Shiro scolded but Shinji kept his feelings in check.
"This attack is going to happen with or without WILLE." Shinji said plainly to the group with a glare. "You can either join up with us or you can stay where you are being selfish cowards because you'd rather let the world burn then admit that you were in the wrong for what you did." Shinji said as Misato was left silent by his words. "We'll send over the data for the attack plans feel free to join in and if not stay out of out way." Shinji said before Misato finally spoke up.
"Shinji wait!" Misato finally said but was cut off by Shinji hanging up on the woman.
Once the call ended Shinji let out a sigh not of frustration or relief but of stress. It seems talking to Misato even after all of this had left marks. Asuka seeing this put a comforting hand on Shinji's hand rubbing it with her thumb opting Shinji to look to her. The pair then rested their foreheads against each other sharing a brief tender moment to help Shinji calm down.
"So can we count on WILLE to assist us?" Shiro asked with concern for this.
"Possibly but we should move forward under the assumption they won't." Rei said making it clear that they needed to plan smart with this attack.
"Yeah, WILLE really does have a hate boner for Shinji." Toji said seeing the issue with working with those jerks. "I wouldn't be surprised if they actually rather stay out of it to let the world burn then work with Shinji." Toji said but Shinji didn't want to believe Misato would do such a thing.
"Toji you must understand they have been fighting this battle for over 14 years since the Third Impact." Rei said reminding them that from their perspective Shinji was the villain. "However, I do agree that using Shinji as a scapegoat has no, ground for justification." Rei added as while she understood that did not mean she agreed with their logic.
"We might also have another issue to worry about." Acxa said as she then entered the room. The Galra hybrid then activated the holographic projector and from there displayed NERV's base. "Our sensors detected a small fleet of Galra ships entering Earths Atmosphere." Acxa said as the group all saw it and while they glared, they were not really surprised.
"Well, we knew they would show up eventually." Kensuke said seeing the Galra Ships on screen.
"And by the looks of it they're focusing on NERV." Rei said noting the area of the planet the Galra Ships were hovered over.
"So, either Gendo called for backup or the Galra got angry with him." Asuka said not caring either way honestly. "Doesn't matter we'll take them down and take him down also." Asuka added refusing to allow Gendo or the Galra to continue terrorizing the planet or terrorizing the entire Universe.
"Agreed but we'll have to play this smart." Shiro said knowing that with or without WILLE they needed to stake down the Galra and Gendo. Preferably they need to do it before Gendo can trigger his plans for Fourth Impact.
Allura looked at the ships and recognized one of them being Lotors ship. However, since Lotor has been using Galra High Command as his flagship it was entirely possible it may belong to a General whom Lotor had deemed worthy.
"Shiro your our chief strategist, what do you suggest?" Allura asked as she looked over to Shiro hoping he had an idea on how they can pull this plan off.
In response to her question Shiro made his way over to the holographic projection of the would be battleground. "We are going to have to remain in their line of fire." Shiro began pointing to the general area between the ships. "Once there we can start systematically take out their guns because they won't risk possible friendly fire." Shiro said showing the information to the team who would lead the assault.
"And once all the Galra ships have dealt with we can begin to take NERV." Rei said seeing the advantage with this attack plan.
"Exactly." Shiro said as it was basically the Killing Thrust. "Our main concern is if WILLE will both to show up to help us win." Shiro said reminding the group that they needed the Wundur to act as a support ship for Voltron against NERV. If they can't get that then they would have to make do with Voltron alone.
Normally Shiro would push that they should wait to have a better plan. But if Gendo knows that Asuka no longer has the Angel then he will likely push the offensive until he either finally breaks through or there is nothing left for the Paladins to defend. That's not even factoring in his more subtle approach to achieving his goals.
Besides Gendo had been pulling the strings and acting as the ideal chess master. How do you beat chess master, simple by changing the game. Plus, Shinji suspected Gendo had a backup plan if he can't access him or Unit-01. Both sides were operating on slightly outdated information now, Gendo with how to manipulate Shinji and Rei on tactical information to use against Shinji's father. Still if they attack now Gendo would never suspect it especially from his own son. Meanwhile Shinji walked over to Tojin ad went to check on his best friend and fellow Paladin.
"Toji, you sure your up for this?" Shinji asked wanting to make sure Toji was ready for this. "You just had a daughter, and I wouldn't blame you for wanting to back out." Shinji said assuring Toji he won't be judged if he had wanted to back out.
"Don't worry Shinji, I can handle it." Toji said assuring Shinji that he can still fight. "After all its because I have a daughter that we need to stop Gendo." Toji said with clear determination in his voice as he said this.
Seeing that Toji was willing and ready to fight Shinji nodded to his friend. They would need all Paladins ready to fight because he knew that Gendo becomes more dangerous the closer to the corner he is pushed. "Then I better remember to watch your back." Shinji said lifting his arm to Toji. "After all someone has to make sure you make it back to that family of yours." Shinji said and Toji smiled and claps Shinji's hand into his.
"And I'll watch your back." Toji began with a smirk on his face. "You got your daughter, and you need to catch up to me with a second kid." Toji said and thus Shinji laughed before they pull each other into a hug. The two Paladins shared a hearty laugh for a moment before parting ways so they can prepare for the battle against NERV.
(NERV HG Unit-13 Incubation Chamber)
Their plan to accelerate Unit-13's birth utilized a similar bases to what was done to create the Robeast. They were hooking up Balmerra Crystals to the units metal womb as they plan to drain the crystals power directly into the EVA. This should allow for it to finish its incubation ahead of schedule and begin the next phase of the operation.
Originally Gendo had wanted Shinji to activate the EVA but now he's forced to rely on Kaworu and Kala. There was unfortunately nothing he could do or say to convince the Galra otherwise on this one. He would have to adapt yes but a small concern entered his thoughts. He knew that the plan was to break Shinji with unit-13 triggering an Impact and Kaworu dying from the event. Katsuragi had been most predictable in this war all he had to do was let her take a few victories and she keeps playing to the strings he pulls.
But when Voltron appeared piloted by his son it threw a wrench into his plans. He had to keep adapting more then he would like to admit. The Galra were already unhappy with the Quintessence tributes being less then he promised. But it was like Gendo said the planet was running out and needed time to recover and regain it all. But Lotor would not have it he's become obsessed with the First Ancestral Race or as he calls them, The Elder Giants. It wasn't hard to figure out that the Elder Giants and the First Ancestral Race were one in the same when being described.
But the new information Lotor had provided for Gendo had been useful as well as the Relics he had discovered from it. Still with things how they are using the Black Coffin may become an inevitable outcome for his scenario. It was worrisome if he was being honest, SEELE was terrified of what the Black Coffin contained even if they had never seen its contents. The First Ancestral Race had even warned against opening it if their translated Scrolls were to be taken as facts.
Whatever laid inside the black Coffin was something that did not belong in the Universe. But Gendo knew it may also be his only chance to see his Yui again. "We're beginning the transfer." A druid spoke drawing Gendo out from his thoughts.
"Proceed." Fala said and with a nod the Druids got to work. It always amazed Gendo in his most inner of thoughts how these aliens could channel this energy in a metaphysical method to carry out their goals such as corrupting a crystal to fuel their ships. Watching how the energies moved and flowed into the metal womb that contained Unit-13 Gendo knew his goal was within his reach, but he just needed a little more time.
Energy continued to flow into the womb of steel as Gendo watched waiting for the moment of truth for Unit-13 to emerge into the world. With bated breath Gendo watched and soon his tenure of patience came to an end. The unit began to rumble, and the pipes came down from it meaning one thing, Unit-13 had awakened at last.
The EVA's four could be seen from underneath the exposed view of the interior. While they eyes flashed yellow Gendo knew that soon the EVA will be under his control. Just as Yui was in control of Unit-01 so to shall Gendo receive Unit-13's power. "It has been born, the blade that shall slay the Gods." Gendo said to the newly born Evangelion before him.
"Only under the guidance of the Galra empire." Fala said reminding Gendo that he owe his allegiance to the Galra.
"Yes… of course." Gendo said coldly but knew he was within reach of his goal. "It won't be long before WILLE tries to stop us… I suggest we begin posthaste." Gendo said knowing WILLE would likely have sensors to detect the activation of another EVA.
"Agreed." Fala said knowing they had to act with swiftness. Still, she kept her eyes on Gendo at all times always expecting him to attempt some grander game against Lotor. Lotor predicted it and had sent her to observe and if need be, to intervene. But what neither of them realized their goals would not be so easily achieved if at all.
(TBC)
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