FicWad

Disclaimer: See chapter 1

Chapter 4:

In an operating theatre in NERV Medical an anaesthetic machine and patient monitor beep away providing Ritsuko's medical team all the information they need that their patient is ready to begin. "Making first incision" Ritsuko states with a steady hand. She makes more incisions as the ESU hums away with each cut. "Turn the coag up 10 watts" She calls out, hearing the beeps as a nurse makes the adjustment.

"Good start doctor... Here" Fuyutsuki replies handing a bone drill and clamps. A loud crack follows as Ritsuko breaks into Shinji's chest and continues preparations to install the miniature synthetic S2 organ.

"How are his vitals?" Ritsuko asks. "Not too great, they have been steadily declining with no sign of turning since we started. Nothing we try is working" comes a reply from a nurse.

Ritsuko looks across to Fuyutsuki to see if he has an opinion on the early setback they have just suffered. "Hmmm..." The old professor begins "We're too far in too stop now. Judging by the way his vitals are I'd say it's probably toxins in his blood. Maybe the kidneys are not function like they should from the stress of the operation. He's been through allot."... "Get a cannula in and start him on dialysis, that will give you the base line your after for the S2"

Fuyutsuki looks across to Ritsuko and gets a small nod in agreement "Do it" She adds and begins making the room under Shinji's ribs where the S2 will go.

"How's he looking now?" She asks once she is finished "Vitals have improved drastically, looks like the professor was right" Replies a nurse

Ritsuko nods her thanks at Fuyutsuki before continuing the operation. Lowering the Miniature S2 into place and preparing to graft nerve endings and blood flow to it. "Is he still stable?" Shinji's vitals are all that concern Ritsuko right now.

"Yes he's tracking well" A nurse replies. Ritsuko double checks her work again when the sub-commander prompts her.

"You've done exceptionally well to here Dr. Akagi, but I do believe there is no time like the present" Fuyutsuki prompts Ritsuko giving her just enough courage to continue.

"Yes sir" she replies and begins connecting blood flow and nerve endings to the S2. "That's it the organ seems to have taken." Ritsuko states when done. The little organ about half the size of Shinji's heart started glowing neon blue as blood flowed into it and it came to life.

"Let's close him up then" Fuyutsuki continues. Fusing Shinji's ribs and chest bone back together. "Are you going to use the laser to close?" Fuyutsuki asks "Yes. His body is already wracked with scars. I have no idea about them but I see no reason to add to the collection" Ritsuko states as she fires up the laser and completes the operation in just a shade under 4 hours, as alarms start ringing out on the heart monitor. "What's going on? Status" Ritsuko demands.

"We've got asystole. Heart rate has crashed" A nurse replies. "Begin CPR, get the defibrillator and a shot of adrenaline" Ritsuko orders Fuyutsuki begins compressions counting them out. "Still no heart rate charge to 360" Ritsuko orders. "Do you think it could be rejection?" She asks

"No. It's far too soon to be that" Fuyutsuki replies. "It must be something we missed" Ritsuko muses racking her brain to save Shinji. "No we missed nothing. Maybe it's the S2?" Fuyutsuki suggests. A ringing sounds out alerting that the defibrillator is charged "Charged to 360 CLEAR" Ritsuko calls out putting the paddles across Shinji's chest and shocking him. Again the alarms ring out.

"Still no rhythm" A nurse calls out "Come on young man you've endured so much don't quit on us now" Fuyutsuki begs. "Give the adrenaline" Ritsuko orders. Fuyutsuki stabs Shinji with the massive needle through the chest bone and into his heart injecting the whole syringe. The defibrillator rings out again.

"Charged to 360 CLEAR" Ritsuko calls out. Shocking Shinji again and then ping the heart monitor comes to life "We've got a normal trace 55BPM a little low but its steady" A nurse calls out. Ritsuko and Fuyutsuki breathe a sigh of relief. "Good job everyone, let’s get him to recovery" Ritsuko orders.



Later that night a groaning Shinji is heard stirring, awakening as the concoction of pain killers and anaesthetics wears off groaning awake Shinji's eyes open and his head tips up. "Another white ceiling" he murmurs.

"It's ok Pilot Ikari" Shinji recognises the sweet soft voice of Rei. He can see her silhouette and outline of blue hair through clouded foggy eyes. "Rei. What's going on? I feel like I've been hit by a truck?" Shinji asks

"Everything is ok. I'll get Dr. Akagi for you" Rei replies. She returns a minute later Dr. Akagi with her.

"Pilot Ikari. It's good to see you’re awake..." Ritsuko pauses "Just rest for now and I'll have all the information for you tomorrow" Ritsuko turns to go but is stopped by Shinji

"Ok Dr. and Thank You"

"Good night Shinji" She replies unable to face the boy that almost died on her table earlier that day.

"Rei what's going on?" Shinji asks his voice a whisper

"It is as Dr. Akagi says Pilot Ikari, everything is ok now and you should rest" Rei replies not correcting Shinji's second mistake of using her first name or worrying to hide her blush that has her cheeks a faint pink, enjoying the feeling and the close company to Shinji.

"How long have you been here Ayanami?" Shinji's question snaps Rei out of her train of thought.

"I have been here since you were released from the recovery ward 5 hours ago" Rei replied in her soft voice

"Aren't you tired or hungry Ayanami. You must need rest too" Shinji replies in a whisper fatigue very evident in his voice

"I am ok. I will stay till you sleep Pilot Ikari" Rei replies.

"OK... Thanks Aynmmmm..." Shinji replies in a whisper as he falls asleep. Rei gets comfortable in her chair watching over Shinji exploring her feelings.

'What are these feelings. I've been having them for some time now. They are not random and I like them very much. What was it that Dr. Akagi said, I like him. Yes I do... but..." Rei's thoughts trail off as she falls asleep.



"Good morning pilots" Ritsuko calls out entering Shinji's room and seeing the two pilots starting to wake up. "I hope you both slept well" Fuyutsuki continues as the doctor and sub-commander take a seat by Shinji's bed.

"Good morning Doctor. Sub-Commander" Rei replies in her soft voice. "Morning" Shinji grunts out. His voice haggard and strained.

"I take it you have a few questions Shinji so we'll get straight to the explanation" Ritsuko begins once her and the Sub-Commander are seated and Shinji and Rei have woken up properly.

"The operation was a success." Ritsuko begins. "The artificial miniature S2 organ was implanted next to your heart, and has taken well. Your body shows no signs of rejection for the organ and there doesn't appear to be any complications with the operation." She continues not taking her eyes of Shinji's to make sure he is understanding everything. "The important thing to remember is that the S2 will heal your body in addition to your normal immune system it's only job is to repair damage on a cellular level and even though it is completely synthetic it will evolve with you as you grow. If you increase your fitness the S2 will continue to heal your body to your increased fitness levels. Does this make sense so far?"

"Yes Doctor" Shinji replies

"Good, the sub-commander will continue the explanation on the specifics from here. Once your recovery is complete we will have to give you a full physical before you can be returned to the active roster. Don't worry about that though I'm sure everything will be fine after a couple of days rest. I'm going to get your new glasses now. See you later on" Ritsuko finishes, nodding to the Sub-Commander and Rei as she leaves.

"Thank you doctor" Shinji replies turning his attention to the sub-commander

"Now Shinji I understand you have been going to the shooting range and going to the gym a lot?" Fuyutsuki begins.

"Yes sir" Shinji replies.

Good you need to continue that. It will help the S2 to fully integrate into your body. The only difference you should notice from before the operation is the degeneration should completely stop. You should have more energy, especially after piloting or testing with the Eva and it shouldn't take as long for you to heal from any injuries you sustain from here on out. Make sense?" Fuyutsuki finishes looking between Shinji and Rei.

"Yes sir it does, but will all my previous scars stay or go?" Shinji asks.

"They will stay. The S2 will always return damage to your body to the condition it's in now. It is using your current condition as a base line that damage will always be healed to. For example if you were to cut your skin across a scar the scar will be healed as it is, make sense?" Fuyutsuki replies giving Shinji all the detail he thinks he can manage.

"Yes sir it does, but how will it improve as my fitness increases?" Shinji asks clearly not getting that part.

"As you fitness increases the S2 will understand a positive improvement in your body and adjust for it. If you can run faster or jump higher your body becomes more efficient at those tasks allowing the S2 to incorporate the increased performance of your body." Fuyutsuki replies.

"I see" Shinji replies "So how come the scars won't heal?" He asks

"I see where you’re coming from Shinji but at a cellular level the S2 things your immune system is attacking the scars by trying to repair them so it will compensate to keep the scars there, unfortunately you’re stuck with them." Fuyutsuki replies.

"I see" Is Shinji's response again. "It's ok though I'm so use to them I wouldn't have it any other way." Shinji replies with a grin

Fuyutsuki returns the smile and gets up to leave "I'll see you two pilots around and Shinji if you need anything or want to go more advanced at the range just let me know. Oh and no one else knows about this so keep it that way" Fuyutsuki says as he leaves.

"Yes sir" Shinji and Rei say in unison then Shinji adds "Thank you sir" Fuyutsuki just nods as he heads through the door.



Ritsuko returns in the afternoon with Shinji's glasses and Rei is still in his room. "Hello again you two" Ritsuko replies casually. "Here are your new glasses Shinji" Ritsuko adds giving a case to the young pilot. Shinji opens them to inspect the new glasses a small smile tugging at his lips, that is not missed by Rei. "Now Shinji you need to wear these at all times accept in the Eva. If they are damaged just let me know and I can get you another pair... One more thing to keep in mind is that once your body is fully developed you can have laser surgery to correct the damage done to your eyes, probably somewhere around the age of 23-25 ok?" Ritsuko finishes

Shinji opens the arms out holding them up to the light and inspecting them before trying them on. "How do I look?" He asks

"You look like you Pilot Ikari" Rei replies. "Great" Shinji replies "I love the clear frames" He adds

"It's a new material I was able to experiment with, this way you shouldn't get any obstruction from the frame in your peripherals and they will be very durable" Ritsuko replies to which Shinji just nods.

"If that's all I'll be off, a nurse will be in to discharge you in an hour and don't forget what the sub-commander said about the gym and range" Ritsuko replies

"Yes ma'am" Shinji replies "Bye you two" Ritsuko says as she leaves

"Thank you for sticking around Ayanami, are you sure you don't have to be anywhere else?" Shinji says once the door closes

"It is alright Pilot Ikari" Rei replies "You really like the glasses?" She adds

"Yeah I love them" Shinji replies "It looks like Dr. Akagi has put a lot of effort into them" He adds. The two continue to make small talk until Shinji is discharged by a nurse. The two pilots having the same thoughts all the while regarding their feelings. Both pilots thoroughly enjoying the company of the other as the head for a geo-front exit.

"Stop right there Third Child. The commander wants to see you" Two Section 2 agents approach Shinji and Rei, one of them grabbing Shinji by the arm. "Come with us now" He ordered.

"Alright take it easy" Shinji replied "I'm coming" Rei started to follow.

"Not you First Child. The Commander wants you to go home to prepare for Unit-00's reactivation in 2 weeks" The other agent ordered. Rei looks to Shinji and sees a fire in his deep blue and red eyes she has not seen before as Shinji gives her the tiniest nod to let her know he will be ok. Rei turns and heads to the exit as Shinji is dragged back into the geo-front. Looking over her shoulder she does not like the image of Shinji being man handled by section 2.

"In you goes Third Child we'll see you when you’re done" The agent snarls at Shinji. Pushing Shinji through the large doors not caring how much noise he made in the process Shinji strode confidently across the large distance to Gendo's desk.

"Pilot Ikari you are here for debriefing" Gendo's voice booms through the large office causing Misato to flinch that is not missed by Shinji.

At hearing those words Shinji can only think 'not this again' "Yes Sir" Is Shinji's even reply.

"While the mission was a success given the last debriefing we had I only have one question for you" Gendo states. 'Finally a break at least this will be quick' Shinji thinks. "Why did you disobey a direct order from Captain Katsuragi to retreat?" Gendo continues in the same authoritative voice hands in front of his face in his usual pose.

"Because those orders would not have worked Commander" Shinji replies.

"How can you say that you couldn't know that. I'm your superior officer and in charge of field operations you need to follow my orders especially in combat" Misato replies.

"The angel had the upper hand it wouldn't have allowed a retreat like you ordered. I had no choice but to counter attack, it worked didn't it" Shinji replies.

"That's beside the point pilot. You disobeyed orders. I've told you about this before. It seems punishment is required... What do you propose Captain?" Gendo finishes looking at Misato.

"For failure to follow orders and insubordination... 2 weeks pay seems fair." Misato replies.

Shinji looses it at this. "That's crap, there is no insubordination just because I didn't follow an order that would have probably gotten me killed." Shinji retorts.

"What about your little stunt with the communications cutting them off to make it look like a failure" Misato replies to that.

"Yes she's right Pilot Ikari" Gendo interrupts. "However the punishment is too lenient... 2 weeks in solitary confinement will suffice. Dismissed Pilot" Gendo finishes leaving no room for discussion.

Shinji walks out of Gendo's office but not before seeing the shocked look on Misato's face. The same two Section 2 agents greet Shinji at the door. "Come with us Third Child we've a lovely cell waiting for you" the same agent says while grabbing Shinji and dragging him down the corridor to a lift that heads straight to the brig. Once down there Shinji is thrown into a small cell with only a bench before a bright light comes on.

"Listen up Pilot Ikari" Comes a loud digital voice through a speaker. "You will get three meals a day. When the door opens the light comes on and you will be asked to state you rank, name and ID number. Failure to do so will result in punishment. You will be released in two weeks" The light went out plunging Shinji into total darkness. 'Two weeks' Shinji thinks 'Stay tough and I can make it'



For the entire walk home Rei was thinking of Shinji. This was not a new development of late, Unit-01's pilot has been invading her thoughts more and more as the days have progressed since they met. The difference was instead of happy thoughts and analysis of her feelings regarding her fellow pilot she was gravely concerned for Shinji. No one had said anything about needing to see Commander Ikari, so the Commander may be up to something. Getting home and fixing herself a sandwich for dinner she decided to proceed with her normal routine until bed time where she would wait for Shinji to get home to find out what the Commander wanted with him.

'It is probably nothing but I can't get rid of this feeling that something is wrong' she continued thinking while eating alone in her cold apartment.



That bright light came on blinding Shinji "State your rank name and number" Came a digital voice as the door burst open and Shinji was dragged to his feet. "Pilot Shinji Ikari 17246685" Shinji replied. Nothing further was said. Shinji was pushed into the wall and fell to the floor as who ever came in left and the light went out plunging the room back into darkness.

Shinji picked himself up off the floor and thought of the Sub-Commanders words. 'Work hard at the gym and range. That could be my key to success. Now stay tough' with that Shinji started going through a routine of push-ups and sit-ups to start passing the time.



Rei continued to wait for Shinji but as midnight became one she headed to his apartment thinking maybe he came home while she was in the shower. Pushing open the same unlocked broken door as her apartment she realised this was the first time she had been in here without permission and hoped Shinji wouldn't mind the intrusion. As she looked around it became obvious that Shinji was not home. Everything was off. The bed was made and empty. A clean plate and bowl was on the dish rack but were dry and looked like they had been there for a couple of days. Shinji's school bag was in the corner with some text books on the floor next to the bag. Something was very wrong here, Shinji should have been home by now. Rei vowed to ring Dr. Akagi and find out what is going on in the morning.



The interruptions for rank, name and number had increased and Shinji figured this was because he had been trying to sleep. Scraping that idea Shinji continued to exercise, balancing on his hands and doing push-ups after a while the interruption came "State you rank name and number" "Pilot Shinji Ikari 17246685" Shinji replied being pushed to the ground his glasses were taken off him and stomped on as the person left and the room plunged into darkness again. 'Stay frosty' Shinji thought "Didn't need those in here anyway" He muttered



Rei awoke after a fitful night’s sleep to the realisation that she had fallen asleep hard waiting for Shinji to get home. Quickly checking Shinji's apartment to see if he had come home while she was asleep proved pointless, everything was as it was the night before. The blue haired pilot instantly realised something was wrong. 'I think he should have been back by now. This can't be good' Pulling out her phone she dialled a number waiting for it to answer

"Hi Rei I wasn't expecting your call. Is everything ok?"

"I am looking for Pilot Ikari have you seen him Dr. Akagi?"

"Not since picking up his glasses with you yesterday. What's wrong Rei?"

"He didn't come home last night. I've been waiting for him to get here but I have no idea where he is." The longer the conversation went on the more worried Rei became. 'It is becoming more likely something bad has happened to Shinji' Rei thought

Ritsuko's question broke Rei out of her thoughts "Where did you see him last?" She asked

Rei thought for a second before her growing fears became certain "Section 2 took him to Commander Ikari yesterday afternoon as we were about to leave the geo-front" She replied.

"I'll look into it" Ritsuko replied "I know it's hard but try not to worry too much about it. I'll call you later on ok" She finished a compassionate tone to her voice.

"Ok. Bye Dr." Rei replied hanging up.

Ritsuko put the phone down and sighed. She hadn't been at work long at all today and it was shaping up to be another long day. Thinking about how to go about finding out about what happened to Shinji it hit her immediately 'I can demand to know his wear a bouts since I'm in charge of the pilots well being'



That bright light came on blinding Shinji "State your rank name and number" Came a digital voice as the door burst open and Shinji was dragged to his feet. "Pilot Shinji Ikari 17246684" Shinji replied. "Wrong answers punish him" Came the digital voice instantly a savage punch struck Shinji in the side of the head knocking him off his feet. Shinji just lay there tired and seeing stars. Blinking quickly and shaking his head Shinji staggered to his feet only to receive a series of punches to his body, the last one to his kidneys floored him again. "Get it right next time pilot" came the voice as the man left and the room plunged into darkness.



"Hello Misato?" Ritsuko said balancing the phone in her ear and compiling reports at her desk.

"Hi Rits" Misato answered sleepily "Do you know what time of day it is?"

"Yes I do Misato I'm at work. I just have one quick question. Do you know where Shinji is?" She continued not missing a beat.

"I don't know..." Misato stalled "he should be at home" She continued. The uneasiness in her voice was not lost on Ritsuko though.

"Alright I'll see you when you get in here this afternoon then" Ritsuko finished hanging up the phone. 'She's lying her ass off, something is defiantly up if the commander is involved as well. She decided to be direct and get answers picking up the phone.

"Hello Sub-Commander I'll be quick I know your busy, do you know where Shinji is?" Ritsuko asked. Well almost direct she thought, if she could avoid calling the commander she would.

"Sorry doctor I haven't. What's wrong?" The old professor asked.

"Shinji is missing, as far as I can tell he was last seen by the First Child heading to the Commanders office with Section 2 yesterday afternoon." She replied

"Mmmmm. I was not aware of any meeting, are you worried?" He asked.

"No the First Child is" She replied "Although the more I try to find him the more I'm getting worried as well." She added

"I see... You should call the commander, do it under the cover of an experimental sync test. He will know what has happened. Weather he tells you or not..." Fuyutsuki left the rest unsaid.

"Yes sir" Ritsuko replied.

"Let me know how you go. Call if you need anything." Fuyutsuki replied.

"Yes sir. Good-bye" Ritsuko replied as the line went dead. Running a hand down her face Ritsuko couldn't stop but wonder what she had gotten herself into 'He can't possible know about the S2' She thought. Picking up the phone again and dreading it she pressed on.

"Yes" Came the coldest voice on the planet down the phone.

"It's me sir. I'm looking for the Third Child, I need him for a new sync experiment but can't get a hold of him" Ritsuko replied.

Gendo paused for effect knowing that this call was going to come eventually before coolly replying "I'm sorry Dr. Akagi. The Third Child is unreachable, can the test be done at a later date?"

"No Sir it can't. What do you mean unreachable?" Ritsuko replied barely keeping her composure.

"The Third Child is in solitary confinement for 2 weeks, he was found guilty at a hearing yesterday for insubordination, failure to follow superior officer’s direct orders, and tampering with Evangelion equipment." Gendo reels off easily with a smug grin on his face the whole time.

"I wasn't aware of this" Ritsuko replies

"It's not your concern Dr. Akagi" Gendo replies with authority

"I disagree sir. With all due respect you left me in charge of the pilot’s health and everything relating to them, I should at least be aware of something like this. What happened in this hearing?" Ritsuko replied annoyed at being left out of the loop

"The hearing was conducted by myself and Captain Katsuragi, Pilot Ikari was found guilty of the charges and sentenced to two weeks in solitary confinement with no pay. So relating to your sync test Pilot Ikari is unavailable for another 13 days." Gendo replied with not a care in the world.

"These are the things I expect to be aware of regarding the pilot’s sir" Ritsuko replies

"Very well Dr. I'll forward the report to you regarding this. However I don't need to remind you that this is necessary for the scenario." Gendo replied with finality

"Perhaps you can reconsider Sir. After all he is the only active pilot with an Evangelion at the moment" Ritsuko practically pleaded.

"Very well. I'll consider halving it. I'll let you know Dr." Gendo replied before hanging up

At this Ritsuko collapsed back into her chair 'That was more draining than I ever could have imagined now to call Rei'



That bright light came on blinding Shinji "State your rank name and number" again the digital voice as the door burst open and Shinji was dragged to his feet. "Pilot Shinji Ikari 172555524arrreeerrerr" Shinji replied. Nothing further was said. Shinji was pushed into the wall and fell to the floor completely spent and sleep deprived he was dragged to his feet again "Give us your number" Boomed the digital voice "1255..." Shinji stammered before being punched in the stomach and kneed in the head. His fore head cut from the final blow as he fell to the floor.

"Get up you pathetic excuse for a man" A guard yelled before dragging Shinji to his feet and slamming him into the wall. Shinji fell to a knee but kept his balance. Blood running down his face and onto the floor. "And to think you've only been here for 2 days" The guard sneered before slamming the door shut.



Rei picked up her phone faster than ever before "Dr. Akagi?" She asked many emotions present in her usual monotone voice.

"Yes Rei. I've found Shinji. You need to come into head quarters and I'll explain everything" Ritsuko replied.

"Yes Doctor" Rei replied hanging up knowing that whatever Dr. Akagi had for her was not safe over the phone. She headed straight out the door and towards NERV, her stomach twisting into knots. Although she could not explain the feeling surrounding Unit-01's pilot she knew it was bad and did not want to experience it again.



Rei knocked on Dr. Akagi's office after racing towards NERV HQ. "Rei that was quick" Ritsuko greeted her "Take a seat" she said locking the door and drawing the blind to the window in her office.

"How is he?" Rei asked in her soft voice.

The look that Ritsuko had for her showed sorrow at the situation she was in. Aware of the feelings developing between the young pilots but not wanting to interfere too much. Weather that was because she didn't want to interfere in the relationship that might develop or because she was scared of the commander she was yet to decide.

"I'm not sure" Ritsuko replied after those thoughts flashed through her mind. "He's in solitary confinement for at least two weeks but hopefully one."

"What happened?" Rei enquired.

"Something about a meeting with the Commander and Captain Katsuragi about insubordination charges that were levelled after that last battle with the fourth angel" Ritsuko replied and the fact that Rei's face didn't change made her feel like she had to go on. "He was found guilty of all charges and sentenced to two weeks solitary confinement, of which he still has twelve days to go... I'm still waiting for a report on all this as well." Ritsuko finished

Although Rei's face never changed her mind was franticly processing all the information, all the angles. "Is there any way to get Shinji out sooner?" She asked

"I'm afraid not Rei. It all depends on the Commander. He said he might reduce the sentence to one week, but that remains to be seen." Ritsuko replied

"Is there anything I can do?" Rei asked knowing the answer already and feeling completely helpless.

"Sorry Rei. There is nothing you can do. Just keep preparing for Unit-00's reactivation test." Ritsuko said

"I see" Rei replied in a quiet voice even for her. "Good bye Dr. Akagi" she replied on her way out.



Again that bright light came on blinding Shinji "State your rank name and number" Came a digital voice as the door burst open and Shinji was dragged to his feet. "Pilot Shinji Ikari 17246685" Shinji replied. "At least you got it right this time" A guard sneered at him before punching Shinji in the back hard causing him to fall to his knees. The second guard delivered a knee to his face knocking him flat onto his back. "Not too hard we still have more to do" The first guard admonished as he pulled out a towel and held it firmly across Shinji's face. He knew what was coming and held his breath, but it made no difference. After a minute and a half he started gagging on reflex as water was constantly pored over the towel.

Shinji was dragged to his feet coughing and spluttering. "Are you sure you can handle another eight days of this shit Pilot" One guard bragged. "Will you be following orders and obeying the chain of command" The other guard demanded. "Yes" Shinji replied knowing it wasn't really a question.

"Do you have anything to say for yourself? Pilot" The other guard added. "Actually" Shinji started with a groggy voice "After I sort the Commander out I'm going to kill you two. You’re a couple of idiots following orders blindly." Shinji replied knowing it's a stupid thing to do but not caring at all in this point in time because it had made him feel a little better. The two guards went to leave before the first one turned around punching Shinji hard across the jaw, splitting his cheek and knocking him to the ground, nothing was said and they left slamming the door shut behind them plunging Shinji back into darkness. The thing that was missed a minute later was that the bleeding had stopped and the deep cut started to slowly close. Shinji smirked and started doing more fitness work.



"You wanted to see me Captain" The Commander greeted Misato as she strode across the large office. The commander sitting behind his desk with his trade mark pose.

"Yes sir" Misato began and pressed on before she could lose her nerve "I want the Third Child moved into my apartment."

"For what purpose?" Gendo interrupted coldly.

"I think we can work together better if we can learn to live together, and I am his guardian Sir" Misato replied.

"Hmmm..." Gendo ran all the possibilities in an instant "Very well I'll allow this for now, but if high standards of piloting are not met from here on out I will be forced to intervene Captain."

"Yes Sir" Misato replied.

"Very well. I'll have all the arrangements made and have the Third Child's possessions shipped to your apartment tonight. He will be released from solitary tomorrow and Unit-00's reactivation test will be the day after that. Ensure the Third Child is ready to provide backup if necessary for that. Dismissed" Gendo stated and started to go through reports on his desk.

"Yes Sir" Misato said snapping off a salute and leaving.



Shinji's cell door opened with a loud clang he was in the middle of the room balancing on his hands doing push-ups, every well defined muscle in his body straining and giving their all, sweat pouring down his body before being claimed by gravity and hitting the floor. There was no bright light or intrusion from the guards, a small amount of natural light filtered into the room through the door but Shinji didn't pay it much attention until he heard a voice.

"Come on Shinji let's go home, you've been released." It was Misato.

Shinji stepped out of the cell shielding his eyes. He looked remarkable well for someone who had spent a week in solitary confinement being beaten and tortured all in the name of following orders. "What's going on it hasn't been two weeks?" Shinji asked knowing something was going on.

"It hasn't you've been released early." Misato replied happily.

Shinji saw that she was being honest "Alright" He replied not liking her tone since she kind of did land him in there in the first place.

"Come-on, I'll take you home" Misato continued.

"No thanks" Shinji replied.

"No" Misato stated. "I will take you home, it's the commanders orders" She added matter of factly.

"Can I see it in writing?" Shinji asked already falling into step beside the captain.

"If you wish" Misato replied

"Don't bother, just wondering" Shinji added.

"Come-on my car is this way" Misato said pointing the way.

"Alright, but I need to see Dr. Akagi first" Shinji replied.

Misato knocked on Ritsuko's door and entered. "Misato, what do I owe the pleasure?" Ritsuko asked seeing her long time friend enter her office.

"I have a pilot who needs to see you." Misato replied. "I'll be outside Shinji"

Shinji walked in and Misato walked out closing the door behind her.

“Pilot Ikari....” Ritsuko started then her face cracked along with her voice, emotion of sorrow pouring out “I'm sorry, I had no idea what was going on until you had been in there for the first night. I feel terrible for you.”

“It's ok” Shinji cut her off with a soft voice and a wave of his hand. “I just need a replacement set of glasses, they were smashed when I was in solitary and I can't see shit”

“Here you go” Ritsuko handed Shinji another case the same as the one she gave him before. Shinji opened it looking at a new pair of glasses and put them on.

“How did you know?” He asked

“Once I knew you were in solitary I saw everything from your security camera” Ritsuko replied.

“Ok thanks. What's next?” Shinji asked.

“Things have changed for you Shinji. Misato is taking you home I take it.” It was more of a statement than a question. Shinji just nodded. “Home is at Misato's apartment now. I saw a transfer order signed by the commander. You really should get everything you can out of this Shinji” Ritsuko added.

“How do you know all of this?” Shinji asked after recovering from the shock of the statement.

“I have high level Magi access and I'm not NERV's top scientist for nothing you know” Ritsuko replied

“Thanks for everything doctor” Shinji replied as he was leaving. “And I'll make sure I get everything I can out of this.” He added as he turned towards the door.

“See that you do Shinji” Ritsuko replied.

“One more thing, can you let Rei know what's going on. Tell her I'll call her tonight and I haven't forgotten about her.” Shinji said and opened the door.



“Ready to go?” Misato asked when she saw Shinji walking towards her.

“Yes ma'am” He replied.

The drive to Misato's apartment was a lot slower than had ever been recorded for Misato, she was buying time to figure out how to explain Shinji's new living arrangements to him. She took a deep breath working up the courage to tell him

“I know Misato don't worry about it.” Shinji said sensing what was coming from Misato and saving her the trouble.

“What but how?” Misato replied not even denying it.

“It doesn't matter” Shinji replied still looking out the window.

“How do you feel about it?” Misato asked

This took Shinji by surprise 'wasn't expecting her to give a damn' he thought. “I liked my old living arrangements better. I had a good thing going” He replied.

“I see. Well we can work it out so it's still a good arrangement for you when we get home, but first I'm making a stop to get supplied for my new roommate party” She replied

After a quick stop at a grocery store to grab food and Yesubi they arrived at Misato's apartment.

“Don't mind the mess” Misato replied walking in “Come on in Shinji. Your home” She added

“Sure” He replied slipping his shoes off inside the door and heading in. Taking in his new surroundings and instantly deciding a disaster zone would be a more appealing place to be than this mess. Stowing the groceries and noticing there are two fridges even though one had a tiny space for food and all Misato's beer he was wondering what was in the other one but didn't say anything.

“So how do you want to do this?” Misato asked as the silence dragged on into uncomfortable territory.

“Considering I've been ordered her tell me what you expect and then I'll tell you what will make it work” Shinji replied with plenty of anger and frustration in his voice.

“Alright” Misato began and motioned for Shinji to take a seat opposite her at the kitchen table “I requested you be moved here I figured that if we can learn to live together we can definitely work together” Seeing that Shinji had nothing to say yet she pressed on revealing everything. “I know we haven't gotten off to the best start and I'm taking my share of the responsibility of that. I want to make things right between us, after all I am your guardian and I'm taking the role very seriously.”

“Ok. What do you expect from me?” Shinji asked entertaining the idea

“You live here full time, treat this place as your own, I just want to learn to get along with you, be a good guardian, and work well with you at NERV.” Misato replied.

This took Shinji by surprise. He was not expecting such honesty up front from someone who he had problems with before. “That sounds fine to me Misato. What are the rules?” He asked

“Rules?” Misato replied

“Yeah Rules, for around here what you expect from me?” Shinji clarified.

“Alright, I expect you to go to school and study. Complete your duties at NERV. Do your share of the chores around here and you should keep doing any extracurricular activities you've been doing” Misato stated counting them off on her fingers.

“Fine.” Shinji replied.

“That's it fine?” Misato asked

"Yes it's fine, but here is what I expect:..." Shinji replied with a small grin. " … and I expect everything to be met. Rei needs to be moved to a place the same quality as this one, those apartments we are in are shit. I don't mind the school, but my extracurricular activities come first." Misato looked like she was about to object so Shinji continued. "These extracurricular activities like shooting and gym give me a better chance of making it to the end of my education. There is no point in straight A's if I'm dead."

Misato's jaw dropped with the frankness of the statement. "Alright, that's fine with me... Do you want or need anything else?"

"Yeah. Something to improve moral, the maintenance guys must hate me, I mean all I do is make work for them. That and your help to protect what's important to me." Shinji replied.

"I can manage that" Misato replied.

"Thank you" Shinji replied "So what's with the second fridge?"

"That's your other roommate, he'll be up later on" Misato replied

"Roommate? In a fridge?" Shinji replied, wonder and curiosity filling his usual calm voice.

"Pen-Pen a genetic warm water penguin" Misato replied

"Cool" A small smile gracing Shinji's lips.

The remainder of the night passed in a blur. Misato got drunk and headed to bed, and Shinji got to unpacking and brooding over the changes happening around him. The pilot was unsure what to make of the new developments, on the one hand he enjoyed living next door to Rei. A connection was building between them ever so slowly. He didn't know where it was heading but in a city of strangers it was welcome. On the other hand this place is much nicer than the shit hole the commander had left him and Rei in and Misato was honest with him about what was happening, and she had agreed to his requests.

"This could turn out ok" He muttered to himself as he turned in bed trying unsuccessfully to find a decent night’s sleep.

Morning held some improvement for the young pilot. A tasty breakfast finished with a cold glass of juice. Misato staggered out of her room and pulled a beer from the fridge and downed it all in one go. "Yeeeeeaaaaaaaahhhhhhhaaaaaaaaaa! Now that how to start a day" The operations director yelled out. Shinji didn't bat an eyelid but realised that this must be the normal routine. That and Misato took the less is more approach to sleeping garments.

"You have tests today at NERV be ready in 30 minutes" Misato stated as Shinji was staring off into space

"Yes ma'am" he replied on auto pilot



"So Rits... How's he doing?" Misato asked

"Steady at 150% seems nothing of late has had any effect on his piloting ability" Ritsuko replied

Misato considered the loaded statement but said nothing in reply. He hadn't gone backwards perhaps he will improve she thought optimistically.

"Good job Shinji your numbers are very high as usual. Were ending the test" Ritsuko spoke into the microphone

"What are you thinking sempai?" Maya asked

"Keep a track of all his readings in the simulator next I was expecting the simulation plug to give lower readings then the eva" Ritsuko replied.

Misato met Shinji by the test plugs. "Grab some lunch, after that we will put you into the simulator" Misato replied

"More combat training?" Shinji asked

"Yes" Misato replied

The two studied each other for a moment. "Good" came the reply

Once Misato was out of ear shot Shinji turned to his fellow pilot "How are you doing Ayanami?"

"I am well." She paused wanting to say so much more. "I have been reassigned new living quarters" She settled for

"That's good. Somewhere nice I hope" Shinji replied

"Yes the same block as Captain Katsuargi's apartment" She replied

"Good. Those places are nice" Shinji replied.

They reached the locker rooms, Rei excused herself and went in. Shinji headed to the cafeteria in search of lunch. Still in his plug suit, and oblivious to the stares being directed his way as the plug suit showed off his well defined muscles. Grabbing three sandwiches, an apple and some water he sat down at a table but for the life of him could not get comfortable. Standing with half a sandwich hanging from his mouth he de pressurised his plug suit and slipped his arms out and pushed the suit down his to waist and tied the sleeves around his waist and pressurised the suit again. Sitting down and feeling much more comfortable he continued to eat.

"Is this seat taken" Came a voice over his shoulder.

"Please" Shinji replied. "How are you Sub-Commander?"

"I'm fine thank you. How are you settling in at your new residence?" Fuyutsuki asked

"It's ok. I liked it on my own, but Misato has been good" Shinji replied.

"Good. You up for the shooting range tonight?" Fuyutsuki pressed on.

"Yes sir. That would be great" Shinji replied a trace of enthusiasm in his voice.

"Good I'll see you after your combat training... Oh and one more thing..."

"Yes sir?" Shinji replied

"For the love of god put on a shirt" Fuyutsuki replied as he left

Shinji looked around and realised he was getting a lot of stares, but decided he was too comfortable to put the plug suit back on.



Combat training. When at NERV this was what Shinji looked forward to. A chance to hone his skills against the enemy without the dangers of death or collateral damage. He found out quick enough that the pain and feedback from the eva was still the same. Misato explained it as the simulation was so real the eva thought it was taking damage and that's why he was feeling it. The other thing he noticed was that the longer he went the harder it got.

Four hours in and he was currently stalking the third angel through the streets of Tokyo-3. He carried his Eva sized pistol with a two handed grip as he headed around and cornered a building. He had lost site of the angel after he fired the pallet rifle and the angel returned fire with a cross blast that split into quarters and spread out. Shinji dogged the blast by rolling away but was showered in building derbies.

He continued his search down another street, "Sensors still indicate nothing" He said into the com

"Keep looking. It's out there somewhere" Misato replied. "Sorry Shinji no help with things like that from here on in" She added

"Yes ma'am" Came the reply.

Then he saw it, at the very edge of his peripherals a green flash between the buildings passing down the adjacent street. "Target acquired, its moving parallel to my street just passed by me" The young pilot called out as he had an idea. The angel was following his umbilical to get to him. Zig Zaging through three more streets away from the angel Shinji disengaged his umbilical and rounded back to where he had seen the angel. He cautiously followed the trail of his umbilical back around keeping an eye on his timer and caught up to the angel.

There was still some distance between the two but the angel had not noticed Unit-01 at all. Without hesitation Shinji launched his attack running straight at the angel and preceded to empty the entire clip into the back and head of the angel. Loading another clip on the run and pulling back the hammer on the pistol Shinji continued his assault as the angel turned around completely caught off guard. Shinji continued to fire into the angels face and chest pistol whipping it to the ground once he got close and pulled his progressive knife and carved from the side of the angel’s body into its core. The massive gash leaving Unit-01 covered in blood all the while Shinji emptied the clip from the pistol into the angels face at point blank.

With the destruction of the core the angel exploded in a massive fire ball lighting up the simulated night sky. "Good work Shinji, we'll finish up there for today" Came Ritsuko's voice as the simulator blanked to the grey walls as the program was shut-down. Shinji leaned back into the plug seat, four hours and dozens of kills for no deaths. Not a bad days work at all. He smiled knowing that after a shower he was off to the shooting range with the sub-commander.



The shooting range was unusually quiet. Shinji and the Sub-Commander had the NERV range to themselves. "This is the M-200 Intervention Shinji a long range precision sniper rifle" The Sub-Commander began. Seeing the level of attention Shinji had made it worthwhile. He had an intense look in his eyes but he wasn't drooling over a new gun to try on the range, Fuyutsuki could tell Shinji was really just looking to get better at this.

2 hours in and the lecture had finished. Shinji had been taken through everything and the end result was nothing short of spectacular. "Very good Shinji I'm impressed" The Sub-Commander complimented as the young pilot had just finished stripping and assembling the rifle perfectly.

"Thank you Sir" Came the reply.

"Alright. Line up the target, you’re ready" Fuyutsuki looked on eagerly as Shinji took a prone position laying down on the floor of the range. Holding the rifle perfectly and looking down the scope. "I'll spot you"

"Yes Sir" Shinji replied

"Distance 1000M. No wind" Fuyutsuki replied after a pause to let Shinji settle back in behind the rifle. The only thing the Sub-Commander saw change was Shinji's breathing slowed as he lined the target up took a deep breath and the ever so smoothly pulled the trigger back, a loud crack thundered through the range. A little puff was seen through the scope and binoculars as the bullet passed through the paper target followed by a crack as the bullet impacted into the back of the range and dropped to the ground. The sub-commander brought the target back in and had a look. A little hole right in the middle of the head. "Perfect... You ready for more?" He asked.

"Yes sir" Shinji replied with a smile settling back in behind the rifle again.

"900 meters on your right" Fuyutsuki called out as a board popped up. Shinji chambered a round and lined it up quickly. Then Fuyutsuki noticed the same pattern. A deep held breath, a smooth pull of the trigger, a very loud crack from the gun shot and another kill for the young pilot. The only difference was the next round was chambered instantly.

"1500 meters on your left" Fuyutsuki called out again.

Shinji looked to the top of the scope and made a quick adjustment for the new range. Then he lined the target up and it was the same pattern. A deep held breath, a smooth pull of the trigger followed by a loud crack of the gun and yet another kill. Another round was chambered and Fuyutsuki called out "500 meters on your right"

Shinji quickly lined the target up took a deep breath and pulled back on the trigger. He hit the target again but this shot wasn't perfect like all the others. "Mmmmm... Perhaps a little rushed on that last one Shinji" Fuyutsuki commented. You should always take time to adjust the scope as you need to.

"Yes Sir" Shinji replied.

"Good work we'll leave it at that for tonight. Don't forget to keep practising." Fuyutsuki reminded the young pilot.

"Yes Sir I will" Shinji replied a small smile gracing his face.

Their attention was drawn away by the sounds of clapping. "You really are something Ikari. I hope you don't mind but when I heard you were down here I just had to come see for myself." A young section 2 agent commented. "Ah Agent Sato. Pilot Ikari this is Agent Sato of Section 2" Fuyutsuki made the introductions. "Thank you" Shinji replied.

"Don't forget Shinji the Unit-00 Activation test is tomorrow, have you got any other plans?" Fuyutsuki reminded Shinji.

"Just school and I was going to hit the gym before the test" Shinji replied.

"Well then I'll see you tomorrow. Don't forget to get the rifle stored in the armoury" Fuyutsuki said turning to leave.

"Good night sir" Shinji replied.

"I'm off shift now. You need a ride home pilot Ikari?" Sato asked

"Sure, just let me get all this stuff stowed away" Shinji replied.



"Ayanami... How are you doing?" Shinji replied greeting his fellow pilot at the gates after school.

"I am well. How are you pilot Ikari?" Rei replied.

"I'm ok" Shinji replied. "How's the new apartment going?"

"It is good" Rei replied. The conversation seemed to stall there but the silence was not uncomfortable as the two pilots made their way to Nerv. Once getting inside the geo-front and heading towards the change rooms Shinji was getting nervous for Rei. "Are you nervous about the test Ayanami" Shinji gave voice to his concerns.

"No" came the reply. "I have confidence in the commander’s work. You should too" She replied in her quiet voice.

"I have confidence in his work. I'm sure he is the best at what he does. I just don't have confidence in him" Shinji replied

"You should he is the commander" Rei replied keeping her soft voice

Shinji thought 'If her voice wasn't so soft and he hadn't made a promise he would be mad right now' "I can't, I've been through too much to ever trust him" He settled for.

Rei scrunched her brow in thought for a moment in contemplation of these words. 'They make me angry, maybe but not. At the same time I know Shinji would not make that up....... He must have a very good reason for not trusting the commander' Thinking back to the events since Shinji has arrived at Tokyo-3 She realised that everything is definitely not as it seems, and the more she thinks about it maybe dieing for instrumentality is not the best thing for her.'

Pushing those thoughts away for later she settled for a soft “I have to go prepare for Unit-00's activation test”

“Ok. I'll see you at the test” Shinji replied. As both pilots headed to the locker rooms. Shinji changing into gym gear and heading to the gym, Rei putting on her plug suit and seeking out Dr. Akagi to make preparations for the reactivation test.



Rei felt Unit-00's entry plug being lowered and locking into place. Everything around her was red as the start up sequence began. 'Red a colour I dislike' thought the young pilot. Her face a visage of concentration as she focused on nothing but successfully reactivating her Eva.

A host of colours fading in and out as power was started. "Filling the entry plug" Came Maya's voice over coms.

Ritsuko and Misato looked surprised from the bridge, everything had been so normal and calm as the LCL flooded the plug. A look of concentration played across Rei's face but she remained calm and said nothing.

"Main power connected, activation voltage past critical point." Came Maya's voice over coms.

"Shift format to phase 2" Ritsuko called out.

“Connecting pilot to Unit-00” “Opening pilot circuits” Came more voices

“Pulse and harmonics are normal. We are in Sync” Aboa reported

“All nerve links completed. Nerve systems are nominal” Makoto reported

"A10 neural connection normal" A multicoloured mess played across the entry plug walls as Rei continued focusing on the start up process

"Performance nominal... Bidirectional circuits open" Maya again.

Shinji looked on from standby inside Unit-01. He wasn't really taking in the chatter over the com, he had pushed himself hard during his workout after the conversation with Rei and couldn't be bothered with concentrating right now. He was focusing on Rei's image coming in through the feed from Unit-00. Her face looked the picture of concentration as she focused on connecting to the yellow and white war machine.

Then it hit him he had no idea where the thought had come from but the realisation was that the feelings he had been having for is fellow pilot were taking shape. He wanted to protect her. Almost like a brother would a sister. He just doesn't want to see he hurt like that first time he met her.

'Everything is going perfect' Rei thought just a little longer.

“Initiating Third Stage Connection.” Maya's voice indicating the test was almost over but at the most important part at the same time. “Approaching absolute border line. 2.5, 2.25, 2.0, 1.8, 1.5, 1.2, 1.0, 0.8, 0.6, 0.4, 0.2, 0.1, 0.0.......... 0.1 and rising. Green all across the board. Unit-00 has been activated. Beginning interlock test”

Everyone seemed to breathe a sigh of relief at that. Shinji noticed Rei's body relax at the last statement, a small smile gracing his face as he is happy for Rei.

"Synchronisation ratio at 44%" Maya called out. "Harmonics seem to be normal, there are no disturbances at all" Maya added.

Ritsuko looked on happy. 'A 3 point jump. Our new pilot is having positive effects everywhere' She thought. “Alright this looks good lets.........” Ritsuko was cut off by alarms blearing throughout the base.

“What's going on?” Misato demanded.

Commander Ikari hung up his phone “Go to first stage alert. Abort the remainder of the test. The fifth angel has been spotted” Authority in abundance in his voice.



Shinji sat at the bottom of the launch bay having moved from his standby position and was taking in all the coms chatter now. Trying to get as much information as possible about the target. He was looking at the com window from Misato and could see Rei in the background. Despite the successful reactivation of Unit-00 it still was not deemed combat effective.

'One more test needed for that I guess, still I do wish I had some company on this mission' Shinji thought.

Glancing at a second feed showing the fifth angel it looked like a big blue three dimensional diamond

“Target is approaching from the North-West moving slowly” Aboa updated.

“Unit-01 ready for launch through launch route 28” Maya added

“No change in targets pattern still orange” Makoto called out

“Unit-01 Launch” Misato ordered

That brilliant feeling of severe g-forces pinned Shinji to his seat as Unit-01 rocketed to the surface. He still loved the feeling and wondered briefly if he would ever get bored of it. 'I certainly hope not' he thought

“High energy build up inside the target” Maya reported as unit-01 got close to the surface.

“What....” Misato shrieked “What does that mean?”

“Blue pattern confirmed an Angel” Makoto added

“Energy still increasing” Maya added as the access doors for unit-01 opened and the launch rails extended up.

“Status. Ritsuko what's going on?” Misato ordered/asked

Unit-01 hit the surface with a thundering crack as a fast moving Evangelion came to a dead stop the head snapping up Shinji ready to fight. The young pilot could see the white glow inside of the target. Spreading his AT Field to maximum on instinct as the angel let off the first shot of aggression in this battle. The energy beam slamming into the AT Field and unit-01.

“A particle beam?” Misato called out in wonder.

“Yes a very high energy beam” Ritsuko confirmed.

“Get me off these rails” Shinji called out strain coming through his voice as he exerted all his energy in keeping the field up and himself alive.

“Energy levels still increasing” Maya reported.

“Release final locks Unit-01 take evasive manoeuvres” Misato ordered.

Unit-01 didn't move pinned to the launch rails by the particle beam and the locks holding unit-01 to the rails. “Come on. I need to get out of here” Shinji pleaded under the severe strain from keeping his AT Filed up.

“Shinji get going take evasive manoeuvres” Misato ordered.

“Final locks have melted. Unit-01 is stuck to the rails” Aboa reported.

“The target is starting to change shape. This doesn't look good” Shinji reported. “Please just get me out of here” He practically begged.

The angel separated its eight points from its body allowing energy to build up between them. A massive white ball of energy started building up growing in size.

“Energy levels inside the target are off the scale” Maya called out a hint of panic in her voice.

“I can see the core but I still can't move. What's going on?” Shinji demanded.

Everything moved in slow motion for the young pilot, as the enormous beam of energy streaked towards Unit-01 blasting through the AT Field, Unit-01 and several city blocks behind the war machine.

“Arrraaaahhhhhhhh” Shinji's cry of pain was deafening as Unit-01 was being relentlessly assaulted by the particle beam, layers of armour being stripped away with each second. Shinji getting the same injuries plus being roasted alive as the temperature of the LCL rocketed skyward. Everyone continued to look on shocked at the raw power being unleashed on Unit-01. Systems started cutting in and out for Shinji under the assault. His vision started blurring not sure if optical systems were being affected or Unit-01's eyes and by extension his couldn't take any more.

Rei having seen enough realised that everyone was caught up with the Angel that had taken them by surprise with its awesome power, which no one was looking for a way to get Shinji out. She hit the emergency release switch on the console in-front of her causing detonation charges to drop the city block Unit-01 was launching through into the geo-front.

The Angel tried to follow Unit-01's decent towards the geo-front but only succeeded in blowing tons of dirt miles into the air leaving a crater in the ground. Having dispatched its only threat the angel started moving over the geo-front.

“Target is directly above us” Makoto reported.

Proximity alarms started going off again. “Now what?” Misato asked

“Were under attack” Aboa called out. “The angel has released a drill it's trying to attack the geo-front directly”

“How much time do we have?” Misato demanded.

“Unknown” Aboa responded immediately “It is moving slowly though”

“Alright. Get a medical team to Unit-01 and give me an update on Shinji's status once you have it. Find out the ETA on the drill and cancel the alarms. Let’s go people like you have a purpose” Misato ordered.

“Yes ma'am” The bridge crew responded as Ritsuko was already out the door to the eva cages with Rei following.



As NERV's top minds gathered around a conference table Shinji lay in a coma in Nerv medical fighting for his life. Rei was again keeping her bed side vigil of her fellow pilot. Though her features gave nothing away a lot of thoughts racing around in her mind. 'Did I act quickly enough? What do these feelings mean? Should I tell him about the S2 Organ I have?' were just a sample of what was charging through her mind.

“Release the decoy” Misato ordered. An inflatable Unit-01 appeared over a lake. The angel stopped drilling rotated slightly, built up energy inside itself and fired at the barge holding the inflatable decoy vaporising everything as a geyser of water erupted from the force of the impact.

“Try the Mortar” Misato ordered. A train hauling the Type-7 Mortar emerged from a tunnel and fired at the angel. The shot was easily deflected by the angels AT Field. The angel stopped drilling and returned fire obliterating the mortar, train and entry to the tunnel.

“Hit it with a type 5 cruise missile” Misato ordered A plane released its payload, while the aim was true it had no effect on the angel only to make it stop drilling, change shape with energy building up between eight points again, firing at the plane destroying it with a single shot when everyone thought it would be safe with altitude.

“It's indestructible” Makoto commented seeing the test results.

“Not quite” Misato responded.

“Do you have a plan?” Ritsuko asked

“Yes” Misato replied. “But it all hinges on Shinji. How is he doing?”

“He slipped into a coma when we retrieved him from Unit-01. He's in an LCL Tank and his injuries have healed, so now we are just waiting for him to wake up. It should be within a couple of hours” Ritsuko replied.

“Good.... And how long until the drill reaches us” Misato asked

“Given its current speed and how it slowed down when it reached the first layer of armour 19 hours and 36 minutes” Maya responded.

“The angels AT Field is so strong you can see it with the naked eye and its changes in phase from blue to orange” Aboa added

“What's your plan Misato?” Ritsuko asked as the situation appeared dire.

“A precision shot at the target from beyond its range of counter attack” Misato replied.

“How will you get a line of site for that shot?” Ritsuko asked.

“From here” Misato replied matter of factly pointing to a location in the mountains slightly above the skyline of Tokyo-3.

Ritsuko frowned as everyone else considered the Captains plan. Ritsuko followed Misato the bathroom.

“You've got to be kidding with this plan” She said angrily as soon as they both had some privacy. “What odds do the Magi give it?”

“19%” Misato replied.

“That's not very good at all” Ritsuko countered.

“It's good enough. Besides we don't have anything better to go with. You saw how it works against the test targets” Misato countered.

“Aside the fact we don't have any weapons with a big enough range you expect Shinji to make a precision shot across the entire city?” Ritsuko asked “Assuming he wakes up and is ok to pilot?”

“He will you said his injuries have healed and he should wake up soon” Misato countered

“And the problem with our lack of fire power?” Ritsuko questioned still not liking any of the captain’s plan.

“Don't worry I have something in mind for that. I just need Rei for an hour” Misato replied matter of factly.

“........... Rei is probable still keeping an eye on Shinji” Ritsuko replied.

“Mmmmm..... That's so cute. Thanks Rits” Misato replied.



“So the paper work is all in order as you can see here.” Misato stated giving the Major his orders.

“I can't believe this. This is highly experimental equipment. See that it is returned in exactly the same condition it is in now.” The Major stated

“Of course we will” Misato stated. “Come on Rei, take it away”

With those orders Unit-00 lifted the roof off the research facility and carefully grabbed the positron rifle Nerv needed to complete its latest mission.



Shinji's eyes fluttered open as he sighed. “Welcome back pilot Ikari” Came the soft voice of Rei.

“Ayanami.....” Shinji took a moment to get his bearings and compose himself “What happened?”

“The Angel fired a massive energy weapon that breached your AT Field when you were stuck to the launch rails causing severe damage to Unit-01” Rei replied.

“Yeah I remember all that. I remember not being able to move, how did I get out?” Shinji asked.

“I hit the emergency return and dropped the city block you were in” Rei replied.

“Thank you Ayanami. Must have been a good explosion” Shinji replied.

Silence took the room Rei not knowing how to take the thanks or what to make of Shinji's comment.

“I am here to brief you on operation Yashima.” Rei responded “The Angel is attacking Nerv directly with a large drill. It will breach headquarters in eight and a half hours. Units-00 and -01 are to move out at 20.00 hours for the command post at Mount Futago. The operation will begin at Midnight. Unit-01 is to engage the target with a precision high energy shot that will destroy the target. Unit-00 will provide cover.” Rei outlined the mission for Shinji in her usual manner.

“Ok” Shinji replied. How long do we have?” He asked.

“Two hours till we have to move out” Rei replied. “Here is a fresh plug suit and you should eat, you will need your energy.” Rei added.

“Thanks” Shinji said taking the plug suit and heading for the bathroom to change picking up his glasses as he went. “Have you eaten Ayanami?” He added

'Always still concerned for me as well' Rei thought. “No” Was the reply.

Shinji pressurised half his plug suit leaving the arms tied around his waist the hiss getting Rei's attention as he walked out of the bathroom. A slight blush gracing her cheeks as she noticed her co pilots well defined muscles. “Come on, let’s get some dinner” Shinji said

“Yes” Rei replied



“Alright Shinji, we'll be trusting you with all the power of Japan. Any questions?” Misato finished her briefing for all the crew and pilots.

“What happens if I need a second shot?” Shinji asked

“The rifle will take twenty five seconds to cool down and recharge after you chamber your next round” Ritsuko replied filling in the technical aspects for Misato.

“So you need to make the first shot count” Misato added. “Yes ma'am” Shinji replied rather quickly.

“There is one more thing Shinji.” Ritsuko added “The positron beam will be affected by the rotation of the earth and gravity the targeting computer will compensate for everything but you need to give it time to calculate everything”

“The same as a ballistics shot from a long distance?” Shinji compared.

“Not quite” Ritsuko corrected “The positron beam doesn't spin like a bullet would. It won't drift in that regard, but other factors like magnetic fields will affect it. Also wind will not affect the beam like it would a bullet, but there is none around so you don't need to worry about that tonight.”

“I understand” Shinji replied.

“Very well everyone. You have your orders. Move out” Misato ordered.

“Commander” Ritsuko called out as everyone was leaving to complete their orders “Are you sure this is the best course of action?” Ritsuko questioned

“Yes I would not have authorised it if I didn't think so” The commander replied in a cold voice and then continued to the command deck to watch proceedings.



Shinji sat on a bench in the make shift change rooms, a curtain separating him from Rei. He looked across to Rei's silhouette as she pressurised her plug suit. 'I will protect you. No matter what my orders are I will protect you and kill the enemy.'

Pressurising his plug suit with a hiss he left the change room to join Rei on the launch platform.

“Why do you do it Ayanami? Why do you pilot?” Shinji corrected himself

“It is my bond” Rei replied. When Shinji didn't respond Rei added an explanation not sure why she did “It's my bond to all people. I pilot for them”

“Your very strong Ayanami” Shinji replied

“We should get going” Rei replied looking at her chronometer “Good bye”

“Not good bye” Shinji corrected. “See you later Ayanami”

Rei looked puzzled then realised what Shinji meant “See you later Ikari”



Shinji settled in behind the massive positron rifle “How are you Shinji?” Misato asked.

“Ready I guess. It feels weird having to shoot across the city” Shinji commented

“Don't worry. The beam won't actually be that close to the city, and everyone has been evacuated.” Misato reassured her young charge.

“If you’re ready we will start bring power online gradually” Misato ordered.

“Lets go” Shinji replied

“Bringing the first bank online” Aboa commented. “Power increasing and levelling off at 20%” He updated.

“How is Shinji and Rei's sync?” Misato asked

“Shinji is steady at 150% Rei has just increased to 49%” Maya responded

“Good. Next bank” Misato ordered

“Power has increased to 40%” Aboa reported

“Keep going next two banks” Misato ordered

“Power increase now at 80%. No ripple detected Captain.” Aboa reported

“Open the last bank” Misato ordered

“Power now at 100% green all across the board.” Aboa updated.

“Release the safety Shinji. Take the shot once you have it.” Misato ordered.

Unit-01 flicked the safety off on the rifle, as Shinji looked down at the Angel through the targeting computer.

“High energy build up coming from inside the target” Makoto reported.

“Not now” Misato cried out.

A high pitched beep came from the targeting computer as the triangle and circle lined up with the angel's core in the centre “Take the shot” Misato yelled

Shinji pulled the trigger on the massive rifle “Firing” as the angel got off a shot at the same time. The two energy beams streaking towards each other and warping around each other as they passed and continued on to miss their intended targets.

“Damn it reloading” Shinji yelled everyone in the mobile command centre was shocked by the outburst and the level of frustration in Shinji's voice. Shinji chambered his next round and waited for cooling to begin.

The angel tried to correct for the miss keeping the beam burning and carving a massive gouge through the mountain where it had missed, but couldn't correct quickly enough and stopped firing. Then it started changing shape. Rotating 90 degrees and forming all eight points in a circle it started feeding energy into its core from the points making it glow white and building up a massive amount of energy.

“Super high energy build up in the target” Maya reported

“Already?” Misato sounded shocked

“Target is firing” Maya added

“Shinji watch out” Misato called out, but the massive energy beam never made it to Unit-01 as Unit-00 jumped in front with its shield just in time. The massive energy beam passing around both units via the shield.

“8 Seconds until the shield melts away” Ritsuko reported

“How long till the rifle is ready to shoot?” Shinji asked

“15 Seconds” Aboa replied

“Aaarrraaaaahhhh!!!” Rei cried out in pain as the shield disintegrated.

“Rei... NO!!!. Get down” Shinji yelled pushing Unit-00 into the dirt behind Unit-01 Taking the energy beam on his shoulder he grunted in pain knowing what was coming as armour started melting away on Unit-01 again. 'Come on cool down faster you bastard' Shinji thought as he concentrated. Energy started flowing from Unit-01 into the positron rifle.

“Partial blue pattern detected near Unit-01” Makoto reported

“What... Another Angel?” Misato asked

“Negative definitely not an Angel but there is a partial pattern in that area” Makoto corrected.

“Cooling complete on positron rifle” Aboa reported

“How? That's way too fast” Ritsuko wondered aloud.

“Unit-01's targeting computer has malfunctioned unable to generate a firing solution” Maya reported

“What about Unit-00” Misato asked

“Unit-00 is unresponsive” Maya replied

Shinji put Unit-01 into a prone position looking directly down the scope. His breathing slowed, until he took a deep breath “Bring the death you bastard” was the faintest whisper over the com as Shinji pulled the trigger sending a white hot beam rocketing towards the angel.

“Unit-01 has fired” Aboa reported

“How he didn't have a lock?” Misato asked

The beam rocketed towards the angel striking true right through the core and bursting out the other side of its body. The diamond and 8 points fell to the ground as everyone took stock of their stations.

“Status reports everyone” Misato ordered

“Target destroyed” Maya reported “The partial blue pattern is gone as well” She added

“All systems functional” Aboa added

“Rei are you ok?” Shinji asked opening a private com window with Unit-00. All he could see was Rei unconscious in the pilot’s seat.

“Ritsuko. Maya. Come in!” Shinji yelled over the com scooping up unit-00 at the same time carrying the eva bridal style.

“Rei's unconscious, I'm taking unit-00 back to the geo-front. I'm at retrieval platform.......... number 8. Can you have a medical team on standby?” Shinji laid out his plan as best he could, a slight panic in his voice.

“On it Shinji” Maya replied

Shinji got to the retrieval platform and punched the eva sized button to start the descent that felt agonisingly slow. Propping unit-00 up on its feet leaning against unit-01 Shinji pulled his prog knife and cut the safety cables holding the platform sending them into free fall. The platform thundered down the retrieval tube slamming into the ground at the bottom. Dust and debris flying everywhere.

“Sorry Ayanami. I hope this works” Shinji said as he laid unit-00 down and pulled the cover for the entry plug out. The entry plug ejecting immediately spewing hot LCL everywhere. Shinji laid unit-00's plug down, crouched unit-01 down and ejected himself. Running for the plug and pulling on the heated butterfly handles he cried out in pain but kept pulling. Muscles in his arms and chest rippling with the effort as the handle finally gave and opened the hatch for the entry plug.

“Ayanami!!!” Shinji yelled out as he ducked his head in. Seeing his blue haired co-pilot still unconscious he pulled her out of the plug and laid her down on the platform checking her vitals. Nothing. Shinji started CPR pushing out compressions and breathing for Rei.

“Come on Rei don't die not now.” Shinji cried out pushing out more compressions. Then it happened just as the medical team arrived Shinji pushed one final breath into Rei and she gasped and started coughing.

“Easy Rei. Easy” Shinji comforted her, holding her tightly. “Just breathe its ok Rei”

Rei looked up at Shinji as she got her bearings and composure. “See you later on” She said in a faint voice with a small smile.

“Shinji” The lead medical doctor got his attention “Let us take it from here. She will be in good hands”

The medical team lifted Rei onto a guernsey and took her off to the infirmary. Shinji looked around seeing all the maintenance teams starring on realising he had an audience and having no idea what to do. He thought for a second, climbed onto Unit-01's leg and cleared his throat to get everyone's attention

“VICTORY PARTY AT MISATO'S WHEN REI GETS OUT” he yelled

This was met by cheers and yells of joy from everyone around the platform.



A few hours later with Rei given a clean bill of health the victory party is in full swing at Misato's. Shinji had talked Rei into coming for a little bit since it was their victory.

“I'm glad you’re ok Ayanami” Shinji said as he found Rei out on the balcony escaping some of the crowd and noise.

“Thanks to you pilot Ikari” Rei replied. Rei's mind was buzzing with the revelations of what had happened after the battle. 'He put himself in danger when the shield failed, and then revived me after rushing me back to headquarters, no one has ever valued my life that much before. Not even the commander' Rei thought.

“You should call me Shinji” Shinji said snapping Rei from her thoughts.

A slight look of shock passed over Rei's face but was replaced just as quickly by her normal expression. “That is acceptable.......... If you call me Rei” She added just before the silence became uncomfortable.

“Alright. You want a drink?” Shinji asked

“Yes” Rei replied. Shinji headed inside from the balcony in search of drinks.

“Shinji” Rei whispered to herself trying it out once she was on her own as she continued to ponder the day’s events.

“Here” Shinji said getting Rei's attention returning with two cans of soda. “How about a toast” Shinji said holding his can up to Rei. The chinked cans “To Rei Ayanami. The most bad ass pilot on the Nerv roster” Shinji said proudly.

Rei blushed and said “Why?”

“Because I don't know anyone that would jump in-front of a positron beam shield and eva or not” He replied

This took Rei by surprise. Probably because no one had ever paid that much attention to what she had done before. “Thank you” Rei replied.

The two pilots headed inside. “Shinji a word in private for a minute” Misato said with a stern look on her face.

“Sure Misato” The young pilot replied with a small smile. Nothing was going to kill this good mood.

“What's up Misato?” Shinji asked once they were back out on the balcony.

“Even though this party is good, what were you thinking volunteering my place like this?” Misato asked not quite at the point of angry yet.

“I thought it would boost morale, and you hadn't gotten back to me about what I asked for yet so I took the opportunity to give it a little kick start” Shinji replied.

“That's fine. Just ok it with me next time Shinji” Misato replied.

“Alright” Shinji said turning to leave

“One more thing before you go” Misato stopped him. “You were incredible today. The calmness you showed when everything could have gone to hell was just as impressive as the long range shot you made without the targeting computer” Misato was smiling now. She had caught Shinji off guard for the first time.

“Ahhh.... Thank you Misato” Shinji replied taking the compliment as best he can.

“No worries. No go enjoy yourself. You have earned it” Misato said.

Shinji headed inside followed by the captain and the party continued long into the night. Everyone who was not required at Nerv had filed into Misato's apartment the corridors of the apartment building and out onto the streets. Talking and laughing happily moral was certainly on the up.

To be continued



AN: Sorry for the delay with this chapter, it took more than a while. I hope you guys are still enjoying the story. Thanks to everyone who left a review or added the story as a favourite or follow.