FicWad

Disclaimer: See Chapter 1

Chapter 9:

At school the next day the pilots were paying for their late night at the victory party. A second impact lecture had been enough to put Shinji to sleep. Rei was keeping an eye on her brother. While he wasn’t snoring or making any noise she knew he needed the sleep and wouldn’t wake him up unless he started getting noisy or Hikari’s death glare she was giving him became worse. Rei herself was about to fall asleep but keeping an eye on Shinji was keeping her awake for now.

Asuka was resting with her head down next to Hikari, she had been the centre of attention when Rei and Shinji got to school which is nothing unusual but the rumours that were flying around were different. Given the secrecy that surrounds Nerv information regarding the battles is scant. The rumour mill usually consisted of exaggerated accounts of damage done that students have seen on the way to school or speculation at what might have gone on in the battle. Today was different though. A lot of details coming out of the rumour mill were too accurate not to have had inside information.

Shinji woke up to the sound of an instant message on his laptop.

AngelSlayer: Wake up brother class is almost finished can’t have you jumping to the lunch bell.

Shinji smiled at this

IkariS01: Thanks for looking out for me sister

He closed his laptop and took stock of his surroundings ‘Not a bad way to spend a history class’ he thought with a smile on his face happy that Rei was looking out for him.

The bell rang signalling lunch as all the students made their way to eat

“All right lunch time the best part of the day” Toji exclaimed with joy.

“Excuse me Kensuke” Came Rei’s soft voice as the three boys started to head to the roof

“Yeah Rei” Kensuke got out clearly taken by surprise.

“Can I speak with you alone please?” Rei asked

“Sure on the roof ok?” Kensuke replied

“That is acceptable” Rei replied. While she had come along way some habits were harder to break than others

Toji and Shinji gave each other puzzled looks but started to head to the roof anyway. They could be joined by Rei and Kensuke when they finished.

“Ikari I need a word with you in the corridor” Came Hikari’s voice

“Busted dude good luck” Toji whispered to Shinji before heading to the roof.

Shinji headed to the corridor and waited for Hikari as she came out last.

“What do you think you were doing in there?” Hikari asked with a lot of anger in her voice clearly not impressed with the shut eye Shinji had been catching up on in class.

“What do you mean Class rep” Shinji replied formally figuring this was the way to go since he was clearly going to be in trouble.

“You shouldn’t be sleeping in class, your grades are bad enough as they are, don’t you think you should be paying attention” Hikari replied

“I’m sorry I fell asleep Horaki-San” Shinji replied trying to limit the damage “I didn’t disturb anyone though” He added

“That’s not the point Ikari your grades are among the poorest here, even Toji has been scoring better than you lately” Hikari continued not being swayed by Shinji’s excuses “You haven’t even been handing in your homework of late” She added making her point

“I’ve been busy” Shinji replied

“What are you busy with that you can’t hand in simple homework?” Hikari asked still not liking Shinji’s excuses

“Piloting stuff” Shinji replied vaguely

“What do you mean piloting stuff?” Hikari asked “Asuka and Rei always hand their homework in and their scores are among the highest in the class” She added making Shinji’s point irrelevant.

“Rei’s a genius and Asuka has a college degree, don’t compare my work to theirs” Shinji replied “I’ve been doing extra work for piloting” He added

“What extra work?” Hikari asked

“I can’t get into it. It’s classified” Shinji replied

“You can’t or you won’t. I can work something out with Captain Katsuragi if it will help” Hikari replied

“Take your pick it doesn’t matter” Shinji replied

“What is that meant to mean?” Hikari asked

“Look Hikari I appreciate your concern for my grades. I’m putting in as much effort as possible but I have to take the extra training for piloting first. It is the way it is” Shinji replied.

“Ok fine but don’t make a habit out of falling asleep in class”

Shinji got to the roof seeing Rei and Kensuke still talking and Toji eating his lunch giving them some privacy.

“What did the class rep want?” Toji asked once Shinji had sat down and got his lunch out

“Busted me for sleeping in class and having poor grades” Shinji replied

“That sux, what happened?” Toji asked

“Nothing, I got chewed out for sleeping and not doing homework and that’s it” Shinji replied

“So she’s not taking it further?” Toji asked

“I don’t think so, how come?” Shinji replied

“Usually she gets involved more n helps students with a study program n tutoring” Toji replied

“I don’t have time for that. Between training and fighting angels I’m lucky I have the time to turn up to school let alone pass” Shinji replied

“That sux” Toji replied

“I know but I guess I can concentrate on that after the war is over” Shinji added

Rei and Kensuke came over and the four teens finished lunch together until the bell rang.

The three pilots were going through another sync test as the bridge crew looked on.

“How are they doing?” Misato asked

“All the readings are the same from last time” Maya replied

“I thought they might have increased after winning the last fight together. What does this mean?” Misato asked a little surprised

“It doesn’t mean anything; I was expecting some sort of increase from Rei and Asuka at least. That there isn’t one doesn’t indicate a plateau in their rates or any problems either” Ritsuko replied

“Should we be doing anything about it?” Misato asked

“More testing will give us a better idea but that’s up to you” Ritsuko replied

“Alright we’ll add a sync test before their simulator work for the next two weeks and go from there” Misato replied

“Very well” Ritsuko replied “There is one more thing, we need to do a field test on the new sniper rifle before it can be stamped ready for combat” Ritsuko added knowing Shinji was probably going to ask about it since it was the type of weapon he could have used last battle.

“Alright you’re done now hop out” Ritsuko spoke into the microphone

“It’s about time” Asuka complained into the com before it could be shut down

“So what do you want to do Misato?” Ritsuko asked

“What are we going to need to do to pass it?” Misato replied with a question of her own.

“Fire live rounds at targets and test everything on the rifle” Ritsuko replied

“Alright lets do it in the valley outside of Matsushiro there is enough range and it’s isolated enough” Misato replied already formulating a plan. “We can do it on Friday after the sync test on Thursday and before testing next week.” She added

“Alright I’ll make all the preparations” Ritsuko replied.

“I’m going to inform the pilots” Misato replied leaving the testing room.

Ritsuko and Maya finished packing up and would join Misato as she gave the results to the pilots.

The three pilots stood before Misato waiting for their results.

“There has been no change in anyone’s sync score from the last test” Misato announced letting it sink in for the pilots.

She knew it wouldn’t bother Shinji in the least. He would always be concerned with combat results not a sync score, she even wondered if it would bother him if his score went backwards. Asuka had a slightly disappointed look on her face. She was scoring in the 70’s for a while now and was hoping with enough work that she would be able to catch Shinji even though his scores were more than double hers. Rei wasn’t fazed either, as long as her score was enough to pilot and be effective in combat she wouldn’t mind.

“What does this mean?” Asuka asked

“It doesn’t mean anything. We were expecting an increase after the last fight you all won so well but it hasn’t happened this time. As for what it means more testing is required to determine that so as a result you will be undergoing a sync test before all your work in the combat simulators for the next three weeks” Misato replied giving them all the information the needed and laying out the plan.

“But that’s a huge amount of testing, we’ll be here forever” Asuka complained

“I know but it is necessary” Misato replied “It’s only three weeks and yes there will be plenty of late nights”

“We don’t have a choice in this do we?” Asuka asked

“No not this time. Like I said it is necessary” Misato replied finishing that argument

“Fine” Asuka got out holding back the profanities for once

“Also there is one more thing. The new sniper rifle needs to be tested before it will be declared combat ready” Misato announced getting Shinji’s attention instantly.

The young pilot’s brain had checked out for the duration once Asuka started complaining but this had gotten his attention quickly

Seeing that she had his attention now Misato continued “The testing will be done on Friday afternoon and evening in a valley outside our testing facility at Matsushiro. PR wants in on this again so we’ll use the same guy as last time” Misato explained

“I don’t see what for bullets aren’t very effective against the angels” Asuka complained again

Shinji let out a snort but said nothing; Rei noticed the exchange with a small smile, quietly proud of her brother for not lashing out at Asuka and realising that he knew he had the upper hand

“Just what is that meant to mean Third?” Asuka challenged

“That bullets work against the angels” Shinji replied not looking at her ‘Apparently that snort was too loud’ Shinji noted to himself after giving a reply.

“How will he testing be done?” Rei asked

“There is a long valley that will be perfect for the sniper rifle. Live rounds will be fired at targets and all the functions of the rifle will be checked” Misato replied

“Yes ma’am” Rei replied

“Shinji will go first since he has the most experience with stuff like this and it is your request. You will be put through a set of drills in the afternoon and at night. You can have a spotter and if there is time you can swap places” Misato explained

“Is this even necessary, just let the baka have it and if it blows up in his face who cares” Asuka complained with anger in her voice

“Rei, Shinji if your happy to do all the testing on your own Asuka can sit this one out and the software guys won’t have to add the information into Unit-02’s targeting computer” Misato explained

Shinji looked at Rei and shrugged his shoulders indicating he didn’t care either way

“It is ok, we can do this and give Pilot Soryu a break” Rei replied

“Alright then it’s settled. You two meat here at 16:00 regardless of the weather conditions and we’ll begin” Misato finished

“Yes ma’am” came the simultaneous reply from the siblings.

“Say Misato how come we aren’t developing useful weapons?” Asuka asked in a condescending tone.

“If you have a request put it through Ritsuko’s department Shinji put in a lot of work with Ritsuko to get this prototype” Misato replied giving Ritsuko an apologetic smile

“Alright I will” Asuka replied with a smirk.

“If no one has anything else you’re all dismissed” Misato finished

Everyone started to file out of the meeting room heading for other tasks or home “Dr. Akagi” Asuka caught Ritsuko before she was safe

“Sorry Rits” Misato whispered as she walked past her friend

“Yes Asuka” Ritsuko replied knowing what was coming

“I have some ideas for weapons that would be good” She replied

“Very well, what do you have in mind?” Ritsuko asked humouring her

“A progressive sword would be a good start” Asuka replied

“Ok. You will have to do the same as Shinji and give me something to base it on” Ritsuko replied

“What do you mean?” Asuka replied

“I need a sample, a sketch or even a scale mock up would be ideal” Ritsuko replied

Asuka looked a little confused to Ritsuko’s delight “What did Shinji give you?” She got out realising that this could involve some work on her part

“Shinji provided a fully working scale version of the rifle he will be testing on Thursday” Ritsuko replied

“How did he get that?” Asuka asked

“He said it was a gift but it is perfect for what he wanted so we made an Eva size version easily” Ritsuko replied he smile getting bigger by the second

“Oh” Asuka got out only now realising what was going to be involved now

“Talk to Shinji about it if you have any questions, now if there is nothing else I must get going” Ritsuko finished not waiting for Asuka’s response as she left the red head standing there in a daze.

“Is everything ok Rei?” Shinji asked seeing that his sister was brooding over something as they walked home.

“Everything is ok....” Rei replied. Shinji waited for her to continue knowing there was more “.... I just realised that you and I are the only ones doing the testing I don’t know how to spot a target, I do not want to ruin your test and let you down” She finished

“That’s all it is?” Shinji asked

“Yes” Came the soft reply

“Don’t worry about it” Shinji replied

“But the test is in two days” Rei continued making her point

“It’s ok. We can go to the range after our sync test tomorrow and I’ll show you how to spot” Shinji replied

“You would do that for me?” Rei asked

“Of course, it’s no big deal and besides if it wasn’t for you I still wouldn’t know how to swim” Shinji replied getting a smile from Rei

“Thank you, you still now always look out for me” Rei replied

“Of course we are family, and don’t think I haven’t noticed you looking out for me as well, like in class today” Shinji replied giving an explanation for good measure

Rei just smiled at this as the two pilots walked home enjoying each other’s company as always

“Hey Kensuke” Shinji got his friends attention when there was a lull in conversation at lunch

“What is it Shinji” He replied looking surprised Shinji was usually one to follow conversation at lunch not make it

“Misato wants a favour, give her a call on this number when you’re not busy tonight” Shinji replied handing his friend a slip of paper

“What’s this?” Kensuke asked

“It’s Misato’s cell. Call her tonight” Shinji replied

“Ok” Kensuke replied not trusting himself with anything more than that but doing an incredible job of keeping his excitement under wraps

The friends finished eating lunch until the bell rang

That night found Nerv’s first and third pilots at the shooting range

“So this is a spotter’s scope” Shinji began giving Rei the scope

Rei looked it over taking in all the details

“So line it up like this” Shinji showed and then Rei reproduced the exact same action perfectly.

“That’s perfect” Shinji encouraged seeing Rei was going to have no problems with this. “What do you think of it Rei?” He added

“I understand the scope well, I would like some practice though” Rei replied quietly

“No worries, what did you have in mind?” Shinji asked

“I would like to spot some targets for you” Rei replied

“Alright, let me set up a program and we’ll get started” Shinji replied

A minute later they were ready to go.

“The targets will pop up by themselves. All you need to do is give me a distance and wind and I’ll make the shot. I won’t look for targets you find them and call them out” Shinji explained

Rei nodded and Shinji started the program

Rei looked through her scope easily finding the first target “Distance 500 metres no wind your 12 o’clock” she whispered

Shinji lined the shot up following his routine and sent a round through the head of the target. The noise of the shot echoing through the range caught Rei by surprise but she held her composure and found she was actually enjoying herself.

“Next target 1000 metres one o’clock no wind” Rei whispered again

Shinji made a slight adjustment to the scope and buried another round through the targets head then chambered the next round

“1100 metres three o’clock wind plus ten” Rei whispered without looking at anything else but the target through the scope

Another head shot followed with the gun shot echoing again

Three sets of hands could be heard clapping at the display. Startled Shinji and Rei turned around to see Misato, Ryoji and Ritsuko. “I told you he was good” Ryoji smirked at Misato and Ritsuko.

“Getting some practice in for Thursday?” Misato asked

“Yes ma’am” Shinji answered

“Is everything going alright?” Ritsuko asked

“Yes” Rei replied “I have never done anything like this before so it has been good experience for Thursdays test” She added

“That’s good work you two just don’t overdo it” Misato added

“I do have one question” Rei said

“What is it Rei?” Misato asked with a slight shock as she realised that Rei really was changing

“How will I be spotting targets during the test?” Rei asked

It was obvious that there is no eva size spotter’s scope.

“We are modifying a pallet rifle with a laser targeting scope that you will be able to use” Ritsuko replied

“Shinji did you give Kensuke my number?” Misato asked

“Yeah like you said to, why?” Shinji replied

“He hasn’t called yet” Misato replied

“Don’t worry he’ll call tonight, he’s probably getting all his stuff ready first” Shinji replied

“Alright we’ll let you two get back to it. Remember don’t overdo it” Misato said as the three adults made their way out of the range

“You know I think he’s getting better every time I see him” Ryoji commented as they got into an elevator to head back up to their offices.

Shinji and Rei continued practicing till they were both comfortable with the roles they were doing. They actually worked really well together which was comforting knowing that their compatibility wasn’t limited to just piloting.

“Captain Katsuragi here” Misato answered as she picked up her phone.

“Misato its Kensuke, Shinji asked me to give you a call tonight” Kensuke answered doing his best to stay calm and coherent

“Yes thank you for calling, I have another PR job for you if you want it” Misato replied

“Would I you bet you can count on me Misato” Kensuke replied getting hyper excited in a nano second

“Great, the job is outside our testing facility at Matsushiro you will be flown out there from the field opposite your house on Thursday afternoon. I’m going to e-mail you a package with all the information you need. Standard encryption will apply” Misato explained with a smile.

She could feel Kensuke’s excitement through the phone and had to admit that it was very infectious as images of Unit-01 blowing targets away started to fill her mind.

“Yes ma’am” Kensuke replied

“Two more things” Misato began with her all business tone now “You will need long range video and photo equipment” She began

“No problem I have all my stuff ready” Kensuke replied indicating that this would not be a problem

“And secondly I don’t need to remind you not to tell anyone about this. PR will go through everything with you once we finish like last time and you will have exclusive rights again for your web site” Misato finished

“Yes ma’am” Kensuke replied

“Alright, go through the e-mail and I’ll see you Thursday” Misato replied

“Bye Captain” Kensuke finished hanging up the phone

The military otaku sat in his chair letting everything sink in. He had no idea what it was he is going to be doing but it’s something special, possible even better than the trip on over the rainbow.

“YYYYYYYYEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!” He yelled out letting his excitement get the better of him.

“How did you go with Misato?” Shinji asked Kensuke the next day at school

“Great. I can’t wait for tonight” Kensuke replied almost jumping out of his skin

“Awesome” Shinji replied

“Hey Shinji....... I know we are not meant to talk about what’s happening tonight, but can you tell me what is going on?” Kensuke asked in a hushed voice

“No” Shinji replied then seeing the disappointed look on his friends face added “Don’t worry, Misato won’t hang you out to dry you’ll have all the information you need tonight”

This reassured Kensuke to no end as a big grin broke out on his face.

“Da naa na naa na” Kensuke sat on the Nerv chopper with two bags of camera equipment at his feet humming Boom Boom from the Animals to himself. Everything had gone exactly to plan like the briefing package said. He had gotten home from school at 4 and put the final preparations on his gear and was in the field by 16:25 5 minutes ahead of time. The Nerv chopper touched down at exactly 16:30 like it was meant to. He loaded his gear got some help strapping in from the co-pilot and they were on their way to the test site.

They touched town at 17:00 at a helipad at the testing facility. There was nothing but ridges all around so Kensuke couldn’t even see anything. Kensuke wasn’t even sure yet exactly what was going to be involved, only that this was a test involving two evas that he had to take long range photos and video of, compile it and then go through everything with the PR department once he was finished with everything.

This didn’t bother him though because the briefing package said Misato would be on hand to explain everything to him when he got there, and she was true to her word leaning up against a jeep next to the helipad. Kensuke got his gear from the helicopter to the jeep with no problems. Misato indicated for him to sit up front with her and they took of down a dirt track towards one of the ridges. The compass on the jeeps dash said they were heading west otherwise Kensuke had no idea where exactly he was right now.

“Kensuke how was the flight?” Misato asked over the road noise of the jeep.

“It was great, thanks for getting me from my house too made my neighbours real jealous” Kensuke explained with a smile

“No problem” Misato replied

“So can you tell me what’s happening now?” Kensuke asked

“Of course I can. You’re here to film and take photos of a weapons test involving Unit-01 and -00. It’s a prototype sniper rifle. The testing range is on the other side of the ridge. You’ll have an unobstructed view of the whole thing. We had to land you here because there is no where safe to land the helicopter on the top of the ridge” Misato explained everything.

Kensuke was silent for a minute and Misato looked over to make sure she still had him.

“Wow that’s so cool. Thanks for the opportunity Captain Katsuragi I really appreciate it” Kensuke replied

After another minute of driving they reached the top of the ridge line and the testing range came into view. There stood Unit-01 and -00 in all their might a single tower between them and slightly behind with a walkway to each entry plug that was ejected at the moment. Each eva had a pistol in its holster and extra clips. The sniper rifle was on the ground near Unit-01. The firing range was 10 Kilometres by Kensuke’s calculations as red markers were spaced every thousand metres and there was 10 of them. ‘A thousand metres must be like a hundred for an eva’ he thought realising the enormity of the range. The thing that he caught as odd was a standard looking rifle well standard for an eva that was next to Unit-00. It had a strange looking scope where the sight should be which seemed unusual for a short to medium range weapon though he didn’t ask about it.

“Wow this is amazing” Kensuke exclaimed

“Isn’t it” Misato replied with a big grin on her face.

“Where am I going to set up?” Kensuke asked getting down to business realising that he had a job to do and since it was so awesome he didn’t want to screw it up.

“There is a marquee over there. You can keep your gear there. You can film from anywhere on this ridge line to the 5 Kilometre mark. If you need the marquee moved we will move it to where ever you want” Misato replied “So what do you think?” She added

“This is great. Everything is just perfect” Kensuke replied “I’ll start behind the shooters and make my way down the range as the test goes on. I’ll have plenty of angles by the time daylight runs out.” Kensuke replied with his plan

“What about the night shots?” Misato asked

“I’ve got low light and night filters for all my lens’s but it’s best to take those shots from close to the shooters for more detail” Kensuke replied

“Alright also we will have a lot of lighting around the shooters at night and the targets will be explosive after dark so we know what we are hitting” Misato replied

“Great, so when do we start?” Kensuke asked

“We are scheduled for 30 minutes unless you aren’t ready by then” Misato replied looking at her watch.

“No that’s fine I’ll make sure I’m ready in time” Kensuke replied

“Great I have to debrief the pilots now” Misato replied “Let me know if you need anything I have my cell phone on me” Misato replied

“Captain Katsuragi” Aboa said getting Misato’s attention

“Hi Lieutenant” Misato replied

“Kensuke this is Lieutenant Shegeru Aboa, Lieutenant this is Mr Kensuke Aida our PR Photographer” Misato made introductions “The Lieutenant will be running field tests while you’re filming, he will be able to drive you up and down the range where ever you need to go to film” Misato added

“Hi” Kensuke greeted Aboa shyly.

“Pleasure to meat you Mr Aida” Shegeru replied

“I’ll be off, don’t worry I’ll be in touch if either of you need anything” Misato said jumping into the jeep and taking off a lot quicker then she was driving with Kensuke.

“What are you testing?” Kensuke asked

“I’ll be monitoring communications and accuracy of the rifle” Shegeru replied “I’m all set so anything you need help with for now just let me know” He added.

“Well I need to get my camera setup behind where the shooting position will be” Kensuke replied

“Ok let’s go” Shegeru replied leading the way with one of Kensuke’s bags while Kensuke took the lighter one.

The thirty minutes passed in a flash. Kensuke and Shegeru got all their gear set up for the test. Shinji and Rei had been briefed by Misato and were heading up the tower to board the Evas.

“What’s the light going up the tower?” Kensuke asked Shegeru

“That’s the elevator carrying the pilots to the access platform” He replied

“Shinji and Rei?” Kensuke confirmed

“Yes that’s right” Shegeru replied

Kensuke quickly pivoted his camera on the tripod to film the last two thirds of the journey and then his two friends as they walked across the access platform and boarded the entry plugs. Both Evas activating and looking very menacing as they moved into position, Unit-00 picking up the modified pallet rifle, Unit-01 grabbing the sniper rifle.

“Something’s wrong” Shinji exclaimed over coms “My synchronisation feels all weird and different than normal” He added

This got everyone’s attention. Rei looking across to Unit-01 seeing it standing there holding the sniper rifle it looked normal to someone who hadn’t seen the Evangelion before but she could see it as well. Unit-01’s chest was rising and falling like it was breathing, it was a cold afternoon and she could see vapour from the exhaled breath coming out the mouth though the jaw restraints were still on.

“What’s wrong Shinji?” She asked though she had a slight idea from looking at her brother

“It just feels different, almost like I am the eva” Shinji replied

“Look at this” Maya whispered to Ritsuko

“My God this is different” Ritsuko muttered

“What’s going on?” Misato asked

“Shinji’s sync ratio it’s at 200% and steady” Ritsuko exclaimed “All sensors reading normally, no mental contamination” She added

“What’s does that mean?” Misato asked

“He’s going to have a lot more control over the Eva. It’s basically copying him move for move now” Ritsuko exclaimed that’s why it feels different

“What caused this? His ratio hasn’t changed since the first time he got in Unit-01” Misato asked

“Nothing we haven’t made any changes or upgrades to Unit-01” Ritsuko replied

“So it’s still safe for Shinji?” Misato clarified

“Yes perfectly” Ritsuko replied

“Alright lets continue then” Misato ordered

“Shinji it feels different because your synch ratio has increased to 200% its fine to keep piloting your movements are going to feel more fluid and precise” Ritsuko informed him

“Ok. Thanks” Shinji replied

Rei smiled at this knowing it was going to be good for Shinji and would piss Asuka off to no end as well.

“Are you ready Shinji?” She asked opening a com window with Unit-01

“Yeah I’m ready” Shinji replied with a smile

Unit-01 laid down in a prone position looking down the scope of the rifle. Rei put Unit-00 on one knee behind Unit-01 looking own the scope on the pallet rifle she found the first target

“500 clicks no wind 12 o’clock level” She called out

Shinji tightened Unit-01’s grip ever so slightly on the rifle and found the target instantly he held his breath slightly that could be seen by Unit-01’s chest expanding ever so slightly and then pulled the trigger. A loud crack was heard but to Shinji it felt just like shooting his rifle at the range the recoil the feel of the rifle everything was the same. ‘This is brilliant’ he thought as he kept looking down the scope seeing the round get buried through the head of the mock angel target.

“This is amazing” Kensuke got out as he kept his camera recording and clicked of a few stills for good measure

“You’re more right than you realise” Shegeru agreed

“What do you mean?” Kensuke asked

“Shinji’s numbers are incredible, it’s like he was made to pilot” He replied

“That’s true but I’m still worried about him” Misato replied over a channel that everyone accept the pilots could hear

“What do you mean?” Ritsuko asked taking an unusual interest in idle chat for once

“He’s a great Evangelion pilot, I’ve seen him do things that I doubt Asuka could come close to but I’m worried about what he will do once the war is over” Misato explained to the room

“Shinji seems very resourceful I’m sure he will be ok” Ritsuko replied trying to ease her friends concerns though she didn’t truly believe what she was saying herself

“Seven Fifty clicks, wind plus two, your one o’clock slight incline” Rei called out looking through her scope

“I see it” Shinji replied as Unit-01 took a deep breath and fired off another shot burying a round through the targets head and chambered the next round.

“I’m not so sure. Look at him Rits he will bury rounds exactly where he wants for the remainder of this test, it’s like he’s not just a natural born pilot but a natural born killer. Someone his age shouldn’t have these skills and definitely not at such an advanced level” Misato continued

“Come on Misato he’s hardly psychotic or anything like that” Ritsuko countered

“Fifteen hundred clicks, wind minus ten, your eleven o’clock high elevation” Rei called out

“Got it” Shinji replied the same routine followed with the same result. Unit-01 becoming an extension of Shinji the more the test went on.

“Look at that, his movements are too precise I guess I’m worried the stress will burn him out eventually.” Misato replied walking to Ritsuko then whispering “I don’t know what his past is like but I know it’s not pretty. Those scars look like he’s been tortured. I know he was raised in an orphanage but nothing else, I don’t want to see him a burned out wreck after all this” She added

“Neither do I Misato but what do you propose?” Ritsuko countered in a hushed voice

“I don’t know I know we can’t pull him even with Asuka here and that’s the other thing they are barely working together” She replied

“I’ve noticed but this problem only came up when Asuka came here, what about all the training and reviews, not working?” Ritsuko replied

“Two thousand clicks, wind plus 5, your two o’clock, five degree elevation” Rei called out.

“I’ve got it” Shinji replied

“The lower body is covered by a shield” Rei added

“Thanks Rei” Shinji replied taking a deep breath and lining the target up, he pulled on the trigger the shot echoing throughout the range and another head shot.

“Wow the eva really is unbelievable” Kensuke whispered so as not to heard on his recording.

Shigeru nodded his agreement “You getting your shots?” He asked

“You bet” Kensuke replied

“Good we’re getting into the long stuff do you want to move?” He asked

“If we have time yeah” Kensuke replied

“We’ve got five minutes while they review the data so far, let’s go” He answered.

The two made for the jeep and headed to the 5000 marker.

“Alright just take a couple of minutes we’re reviewing the data before moving onto the next set of targets” Misato announced over coms

“Yes ma’am” Came the reply from the two pilots

“Still freaks me out when they do that” Maya commented to Makoto

“I know” He replied in a whisper

“How does the rifle feel Shinji?” Ritsuko asked interested to see how her newest creation was fairing

“It’s great, I couldn’t ask for anything better. You’ve made it exactly like my rifle” Shinji exclaimed with a smile as he brought Unit-01 to its feet.

“How are you going Rei?” Shinji asked

“Everything is going good” Rei replied “This is going exactly like we practiced” She added

“Yeah you’re doing a great job” Shinji encouraged

“Shinji everyone else is ready when you guys are” Misato informed opening a com channel with Unit-01

“Ready Rei?” Shinji asked with a glance to Unit-00

Getting a nod in reply both units took up their positions to continue the test. Once they were in position the first target appeared. Rei was able to spot it after some searching

“5500 Clicks your 12 o’clock level no wind” She called out in a whisper seeing Shinji concentrating through the open com channel they shared together

Unit-01 continued to operate as a part of Shinji even still breathing in time, the cold evening showing off the pilots breaths as he looked through the scope, then stopping as he readied for the shot pulling the trigger. The gun shot echoed throughout the testing range. Shinji kept looking through the scope waiting for confirmation of a hit. After the bullet had travelled the large distance a hit was confirmed through the mock angels head.

“Great shot Shinji” Rei commented

“Thanks” Shinji replied

“Look at this” Kensuke said showing Shegeru his still camera.

The military otaku’s setup had worked flawlessly for this shot. A video camera pointed at Unit-01 and -00 captured everything at their end and a televideo lens pointed at the target caught the bullet passing through the head. But the coup de grace was a still that he had caught of Unit-01 at the moment of firing. Unit-01 in all its fearsome glory staring down the scope of the massive rifle looking every bit as frightening as it does slaying angels, the imposing profile of the massive rifle and a gray smear streaking from the barrel.

“You know I think you have your cover photo right there” Shegeru got out with a whistle of amazement. “Nice shooting”

“Thanks” Kensuke replied not use to such praise.

The testing continued till night swept over the range. Rei and Shinji traded places for a few shots as Rei gathered valuable data for Unit-00 and the tests continued with no problems.

“Alright were into the final stage of the tests now. You two have done great so far but we are going to test the night capabilities of this weapon” Misato announced “You have all had dinner and I know it’s been a long day and it’s already 20:00 hours but we just need a couple more hours of solid testing to get through this.”

Adding for the pilots benefit she continued “The targets won’t be mock angels like the daylight ones. You’ll be shooting highly explosive cylinders. They will show up as a white pin on the night scope. Hit’s will be confirmed by the massive fire ball you will see”

“Understood ma’am” Both pilots replied

“Alright everything is ready let’s get to work” Misato ordered

With everyone back in position again the test began.

“First target has been raised” Misato informed

“I don’t see it” Rei informed

“It’s ok just keep looking expand the search area in a specific direction as you go” Shinji encouraged

Rei continued scanning but it was hard work with the poor visibility. Kensuke for his part got great footage with the high powered lights bathing the Eva units in a white glow and only the red range markers light up the rest of the range the footage really was spectacular

“I have it 800 clicks your one o’clock slight decline” Rei announced some relief evident in her voice

“Got it” Shinji replied lining the shot up “Firing” He added as he pulled the trigger

The bullet streaked from the rifle leaving the muzzle flash behind and hit the target true causing a massive explosion that reached high into the sky, an angry red enhancing the violence of the explosion

“God damn that is big” Shinji exclaimed as everything in the range lit up making night day until the explosion petered out.

The test continued with Unit-01 hitting all the targets, the explosions during the night getting bigger and bigger.

“Kensuke it’s for you” Shegeru said handing him his phone

“Hello” Kensuke spoke into the phone unsure of what was going on

“Kensuke it’s Misato, we have finished the testing, I hope you got all the shots you need” Misato informed

“Yes ma’am I got some great footage” Kensuke replied

“Good work. Compile it all over the next three days and then the PR guys will go through the presentation you put forward for release on your web site like last time. OK?” Misato informed

“Yes ma’am” Kensuke replied

“Great, now I know its late Lieutenant Aboa will take you back to the helicopter that will take you home. Talk to you soon” Misato finished.

“Bye Captain” Kensuke replied ending the call.

“Alright everyone listen up, the testing seems to have gone well. Ritsuko informs me the rifle is now combat ready. Pack up your stations get everything back to headquarters and we will call it a night” Misato ordered for the cleanup operation to begin

A week had passed since the test at Matsushiro Kensuke had been working furiously each night more so after his meeting with Nerv’s PR department to get the changes finalised for release this week. Hikari was not impressed with the sluggish performance of the three students the day after the test saying that if Asuka was not having problems staying awake or concentrating than they should not either. Shinji had rebutted immediately saying that Asuka wasn’t there but Asuka had said Shinji was lying when Hikari questioned her and he scored detention.

The problems with the second child continued as she continued to manipulate the situation at school to suit her. Hikari was blind to what was going on at school and everyone at Nerv let things slide to spare themselves her wrath, but things were reaching breaking point and something was going to give.

“How’s your work going Kensuke?” Shinji asked when the boys were walking home from school.

“It’s going good. PR has given me a lot of help. It should be ready for release next week” He replied

“That’s really good. You like this stuff don’t you?” Shinji continued

“You bet I love it” Kensuke replied “You really are amazing in the Eva. Are you going to watch?” He added

“Of course I’ll watch. I love your site. As for being amazing in the eva, I don’t know about that” Shinji replied

“Come on Shinji I’ve seen you three times and filmed every single one of those times you really are incredible” Kensuke reinforced

“If you say so” Shinji replied

“Say Me and Toji are going to the arcade tomorrow, sort of a celebration of me finishing the presentation for Nerv you want to come?”

“Sorry I can’t I’ve got to go to Nerv” Shinji replied “Maybe next time” He added seeing his friends sad expression.

“You got testing?” Kensuke asked

“Yeah more testing and training” Shinji replied

“Alright well this is my street. I’ll see you at school” Kensuke said

“Sure don’t work too hard” Shinji replied

Toji Kensuke and Hikari headed towards their homes leaving Asuka, Rei and Shinji to head to Nerv for more sync and simulator training

“It’s so strange today. It seems really quiet” Shinji said to Rei

“Yes. I have noticed that as well. It’s as though no one is around since Toji, Kensuke and Hikari left” Rei replied

“What does it matter we’re just going to Nerv” Asuka cut in as though the conversation was a waste of her time

“What’s going on status?” Ritsuko asked as the board her team was watching blanked out during an activation test with Unit-00

“We’ve lost all power voltage level is zero” Maya replied

Everyone looked to Ritsuko for an explanation. She could feel the eyes of the room on her

“Ahhh it’s not our fault” She replied

“Hey hold the elevator” Ryoji called out as he raced towards the closing doors.

Misato stabbed the close button trying to make the doors move faster, her hope rising as they got closer and closer together until a hand came through the smallest gap.

“Got it” Ryoji cried out in joy.

“Arruugh” Misato groaned in annoyance.

“Man it’s been a while since I ran that hard” Ryoji got out while trying to catch his breath “What’s wrong Misato?” He asked with genuine concern seeing her expression

“Its nausea from having to see you” She replied

Then the elevator stoped suddenly and plunged into darkness, only the emergency red light coming on

“The power’s out?” Ryoji half asked not believing it

“Impossible, that can’t happen” Misato replied

“Perhaps Ritsuko made a mistake. What do you think?” He asked

“The backup generator should kick in any minute” Misato replied confidently

“No Sir the back-up circuits aren’t switching on either” Shegeru informed the Sub-Commander

“Which circuits are still working?” Fuyutsuki asked

“Only 1.2 percent of them, only nine circuits from number 2567” Called out a technician

“Connect all the remaining power to maintain the Magi and Central Dogma” Fuyutsuki ordered

“But that could interfere with our life support systems” Shegeru replied

“Do it we meed the Magi” Fuyutsuki replied

Shinji slid his card through the reader at the Geo-Front access gate and nothing happened

“That’s weird” He said sliding his card through again for the same result

“May I?” Rei asked standing next to him

Shinji moved aside and Rei tried her card getting the same result. The two pilots looked at their cards trying to make the explanation come forward as Asuka charged through knocking them out of the way.

“Here let me” She said as though Shinji and Rei were stupid for not getting the door open

She slid her card through the reader and nothing still happened. She then slid it through twenty times more at a faster speed each time, but still to no effect.

“Stupid thing it must be broken damn it”

‘The logical response’ Shinji thought. He noticed Rei pulling a small handbook out of her bag and opened it.

“What’s that Rei?” Shinji asked

“My emergency handbook” She replied “It says we should contact the geo-front directly”

“That’s right but first we are going to have to elect which one of us is going to be this groups leader” Asuka cut in “Naturally I have the best qualifications. Any objections?” She added making the last part sound like a challenge

No one said anything but Shinji kept looking at Rei.

“We can use the emergency tunnels and ventilation shafts to reach the geo-front manually” Rei stated

“That’s a three hundred meter vertical drop you think we can make it” Shinji replied in a hushed voice.

“Yes we can” Rei replied just as softly.

“What are we waiting for let’s go” Asuka stated turning to walk off

“Nerv is this way, we can use the access hatch over there” Rei replied to Asuka’s statement

Shinji followed Rei to the access hatch seeing it was sealed shut.

“Could you Shinji?” Rei asked in a quiet voice.

“Of course” Shinji replied

“Come on Shinji this is your department hurry up” Asuka stated not having heard the exchange between Rei and Shinji

Shinji walked past her ignoring the red head and pulled the crank out of the wall for the door. He started circling the crank around getting the door slowly open with each pass.

“You’re nearly there Shinji” Rei informed him in her soft voice.

Until RRIIIPPPPPPP!!! “Shit” Shinji got out

“What happened? Hurry up Third?” Asuka spat

“I think I ripped my shirt” Shinji replied

“Yes back of the right shoulder” Rei replied

“Oh well” Shinji replied as he finished opening the door and stepped through Rei following with Asuka realising she was being left behind pushed her way to the front.

Makoto Huga often let his attractions for Misato dictate his actions for the captain. Right now he was making his way from picking up her washing when the power had gone out which was strange. Even more strange was the fact that the back-up supply didn’t activate. He made his way on foot during this hot day when a plane in the sky caught his attention.

“This is the Third District JSDF an Angel is approaching all residents must evacuate to their designated shelter” The announcement came out.

“Oh man... I got to report this to headquarters but how?.........................” He said to himself, then had a light bulb moment as he saw a campaign car approaching his position.

Stepping out onto the road with his ID out he hailed the car down.

“Nerv officer I’m commandeering this car as a matter of national security” He announced ‘Oh yeah always wanted to say that’

Jumping in he gave directions towards the nearest tunnel access.

Shinji and Rei followed Asuka as they headed through the maze of tunnels that lead to Nerv. The silence had stretched out a while and Asuka was growing bored with it.

“Do you hear that?” Rei asked

“Hear what, the silence is deafening with you two losers here” Asuka shot back

“Yeah I hear a voice” Shinji replied

Asuka listened harder “That sounds like Huga” She exclaimed “HUGA OVER HERE...... HUGA HEY” She called out waving her arms around

“Silence” Rei said

“Don’t you speak to me like that” Asuka snarled

“Listen” Shinji said trying to hear Huga’s message

“Attention all personnel, an angel is approaching. I repeat an angel is approaching” Came the muffled voice

“We must get to the cages immediately this way” Rei said

Shinji followed as Asuka huffed off after her co-pilots running around them to take the lead.

“What’s the back-up system” Kaji asked Misato

“There are three back-up supplies, it’s impossible for each of these to fail at once” Misato replied

“Then that means this isn’t an accident” Kaji replied

“These circuit breakers didn’t go on their own, someone did this intentionally” Gendo Ikari said from behind his folded hands.

“Yes well it would be a disaster if an angel were to attack” Fuyutsuki replied “This geo-front is meant to be a self sufficient colony, it’s suppose to be able to operate even when completely isolated from the outside. It’s impossible for all the power sources to have broken down” He added

“Someone caused this to happen?” Ritsuko asked

“Yes it would be a logical way to indirectly dissect this facility” Gendo replied

“You mean they could figure out Nerv’s layout from the restoration process?” Ritsuko clarified

“They are clever bastards” Fuyutsuki added

“I could run a dummy program through the Magi. That would make it more difficult to grasp our layout” Ritsuko suggested

“Make it so” Gendo ordered

Just then a van came through to the command centre. Huga hung out the window with the microphone in his hand

“There is an angel approaching we have to dispatch an eva immediately” He announced

“Fuyutsuki take charge here I’m going to the cages” Gendo ordered

“Where are you going?” He asked

“To the cages to prepare the evas for launch manually” Gendo replied

“Manually can that be done?” He asked

“There is a diesel generator for emergencies we will be able to launch” Gendo replied

“Yes but who will pilot them?” He asked

“Don’t worry the children will get here” Gendo replied with a smirk

The three pilots stood in front of a fork in the corridor.

“Let’s see to the right” Asuka announced

“I think the correct path is to the left” Rei replied

“Stop contradicting me wondergirl, Shinji what do you think?” Asuka snapped

“Go left” Shinji replied

“Look I’m the group’s leader so you can both just shut-up and follow me” Asuka ordered storming off

“We better stick together, if she gets lost she’ll never get found down here” Shinji said to Rei dragging his hand down his face in frustration.

Shinji and Rei headed after Asuka

“Why are we heading up?” Shinji asked Asuka

“Why didn’t you say something earlier” Asuka snapped

“I did” Shinji replied

“This has got to be the geo-front this time” Asuka said kicking a door open and flooding the corridor with daylight.

A large leg slammed down in front of the door knocking Asuka back and was quickly followed by a body covered in eyes. They seemed to all focus on the pilots as Asuka backed up from the door. Another leg carved through the wall and door trying to reach the pilots. As the leg came closer they backed away as fast as they could until a gas line was ruptured blowing the door and a section of wall away sending the pilots tumbling back down the corridor.

“God damn it where is an eva when you need one” Shinji said dragging himself to his feet. “Is everyone ok?” He asked

“I’m fine but now that I’ve visually confirmed the angel we better get moving” Asuka replied

“I’m bleeding” Rei replied sitting up

Shinji ran over to her side to see a long nasty gash down her forearm

“That looks bad, how does it feel?” Shinji asked having a look at her arm

“It’s just bleeding it feels ok” Rei replied

Shinji pulled his shirt off and tearing a long strip of material from it and started bandaging Rei’s arm. He got it nice and snug before inspecting his work.

“How does that feel?” He asked

That is good. Thank you” Rei replied

“Let’s get going then” Shinji replied as they headed back down to take the left path.

They came to another junction.

“Not again” Shinji said

Asuka was still seething over everything that had happened but noticed Shinji scars all over his body now and that took her by surprise.

“This way” Rei said pressing forward as Shinji followed

Asuka seethed even more her face twisting in anger at Rei.

“You’re Commander Ikari’s favourite aren’t you?” She taunted Rei “I guess that that means you get treated a little differently right” She added

“Shut up Asuka” Shinji cut in having had enough of the way Asuka treats Rei.

“Don’t you tell me to shut up Third” Asuka spat “I’m the group leader” She added

“No worries Mein Fuhrer” Shinji replied

“What the hell was that” Asuka screamed in outrage

“You heard me, you take power through dictatorship it seemed appropriate” Shinji replied. Rei made a slight grin she had never heard anything like that before ‘What is that? Humour?’ she thought

“And you” Asuka was furious by now not only was she being kept from the battle but the first and third were showing her up in the process “You always act so smug, just because they like you best doesn’t mean you can act so superior” Asuka yelled running around in front of Rei to get her attention

What she didn’t see was Shinji follow her. He grabbed her by the scruff of the shirt and slammed her into the wall.

“Back off Asuka right now” He said firmly and in control.

Asuka looked into his eyes the contrasting colours filled with equal amounts of rage. She knew he was serious but knew he couldn’t back it up.

“Or else what” She challenged striking out at Shinji with no effect

Shinji pulled his USP45 from the back of his pants and pressed the barrel onto Asuka’s forehead

“I’ll just kill you and leave you here to rot. No one would know any different” He replied

“You can’t do that. I’m a pilot you need me” Asuka taunted thinking he was bluffing

“Me and Rei did just fine before you got here” He replied pulling the hammer back for emphasis

“Ok ok I’ll stop being mean” Asuka got out in a panic

“Good” Shinji said putting the safety on and putting the gun away.

They started walking again; Rei angled Shinji to the side.

“Thank you for defending me, no one has ever done that before” Rei replied

“No worries” Shinji said quietly

“Next time I would suggest being less violent with her” Rei suggested

“Ok” Shinji replied “I just wanted her to stop, it’s not fair to you” He added

“Thank you” Rei said

They continued on, coming to a collapsed junction at R05, unrepaired damage from a previous angel attack.

“There is no way I can move this away” Shinji said

“Then we will have to break into another ventilation duct in order to get there” Rei replied

“First child is feeling the pressure and I’ll bet she will do anything to stay number one” Asuka smirked

Shinji just glared at her with a look that the commander would have been proud of and she quieted down.

“Over here can you help me Shinji” Rei said pointing to an access panel

They broke in and started crawling through the ventilation shaft Rei leading Shinji and then Asuka

Rei stopped and turned around. “The cages are down there” She said pointing at the panel in the floor

Shinji started stomping on it and the panel easily buckled out then after another couple of kicks it fell to the floor. Shinji slipped out after losing his balance, crashing onto the floor hard next to Ritsuko. Asuka and Rei followed gracefully after him landing on their feet.

“Ah that’s where you’ve been, we’ve been waiting for you” Ritsuko got out over her surprise

“Prepare for manual entry” Gendo ordered

“The evas?” Asuka asked

“They are already on standby” Ritsuko replied

“But how there is no power” Asuka replied

“Everything has been done by hand. The commander did it” Ritsuko replied

“The Commander” Shinji muttered looking up to see Commander Ikari Nerv uniform impeccable accept for the white gloves that had very black palms.

“Get suited up everything is ready” Ritsuko replied handing plug suits to the children

After getting suited up and boarding their entry plugs Nerv was ready to start.

“Do you think it will work sir?” A technician asked

“Of course it will, we can’t fail now” Gendo replied leaning down and turning the ignition on a generator.

It slowly turned over at first then faster a second time roaring to life as the entry plug dropped down into the Eva and the armour locked into place around it.

“Sever hydraulic locks” Gendo ordered

Technicians used axes to cut through the hydraulic lines the Evas falling free from their restraints.

“The evas are free sir” Maya reported

“Remove final barriers, begin launch” Gendo ordered again not wasting any time

The Evas pushed hard to remove the final locks from around them, and then began crawling up a launch tube. Finding an access shaft they were able to crawl across towards the angel’s position directly below it.

“Vertical shaft in sight” Rei reported

Asuka closed up on it in Unit-02 kicking the access panel causing it to bow out. She kicked it again and it fell away from the wall crashing to the bottom of the shaft.

The three Evangelions began making their way up the shaft towards their target. The angel was easily able to spot them coming towards it. Its advanced eye sight easily picking up on the three enemy units closing in on its position, it was able to spot the rifles being carried by the purple and blue one. Deciding in an instant that these things had to die before they could interfere it dumped some acid down the shaft, its advanced eye sight making it a piece of cake to line the enemy up.

“Huh” Asuka got out seeing something coming down the shaft at them “What’s that?” She muttered

“Its acid watch out” Rei warned but it was too late.

The acid hit Unit-02’s foot causing it to slip on the wall and fall down into Unit-00. The two Evas crashing into Unit-01 as all three Evas plummeted down the shaft, finally coming to a halt when Shinji was able to get some purchase on the shaft and bring the journey to a halt badly burning Unit-01’s hands and his own in the process. The three Evas were able to take shelter in a side shaft as the angel dumped even more acid down the shaft.

“It appears the angel is going to attack headquarters directly using that acid” Rei commented

“What’s the next move, we’re running out of time” Shinji said

“I’ve got it” Asuka exclaimed “There will be three positions, defence, offence, and back-up. Defence’s role will be to neutralise the angels A.T Field and protect offence from the acid. Back-up will head down the shaft grab a rifle and hand it to offence who will destroy the angel” She explained

“I will take the defensive position” Rei volunteered

“Sorry wondergirl that will be my role. Shinji is offence, Wondergirl you’re back-up” Asuka ordered “Any questions?” She asked

Getting nothing but silence she gave the order to move out.

“Eva charge!!!” She cried out flipping Unit-02 out into the shaft digging its hands and feet into the walls of the shaft.

Rei jumped out next free falling straight down the shaft as Shinji followed digging Unit-01’s feet and shoulder pylons into the walls of the shaft to support his position. The angel dumped more acid down the shaft covering Unit-02, Asuka crying out as phantom pain assaulted her senses.

Rei fired her back thrusters to bleed off some speed as she landed at the bottom of the shaft.

“Ready Rei” Shinji called out as Rei threw a pallet rifle straight at him.

Grabbing the rifle and pulling the slide back Shinji lined up the angel.

“Asuka get out of the way” He called out over coms

The angel could see everything that was happening and didn’t like it one bit. These three were very effective at gaining an opportunity to strike. It retaliated pouring even more acid down the shaft. It became too much for Asuka who fell down the shaft.

“Oh Shit” Shinji got out as the red Eva grew big really fast, the two Evas heading straight for Rei in Unit-00.

“Rei incoming, take cover” Shinji got out as Unit-01 and -02 hit the ground real hard. Unit-01’s shoulder taking most of the impact, a sickening crunch was heard as the shoulder dislocated.

“Ahhh God Damn it!!” Shinji cried out in pain

“Shinji, Asuka are you ok?” Rei got out as the dust from the impact started to clear slowly

“I’m fine” Asuka grumbled

“My shoulder is dislocated” Shinji replied as he dragged Unit-01 to its feet. “Where are we?” He added absent mindedly

“It looks like we are between retrieval platforms seven and eight” Rei replied

“What are we going to do now?” Asuka asked out of ideas

“We need to install the spare batteries and get to the surface” Shinji replied “Anyone see my rifle?” He added

“Here” Rei said passing the gun to Shinji, he looked it over and pulled the slide back ejecting a round.

“It looks ok, alright let’s get these batteries swapped over” Shinji said

“Hey who made you the leader” Asuka complained

“No one but you’re out of ideas and once we get these batteries swapped and I put my shoulder back in I’m going to kill that thing. You can come with me or stay down here” Shinji replied

“This will be good” Asuka commented sarcastically

Shinji and Rei loaded the spare batteries on the Eva’s and Rei loaded Asuka up. The two girls turned around just in time to see Shinji line Unit-01’s shoulder up with a massive support beam, hitting the shoulder against the beam he popped Unit-01 shoulder back in with a click and felt his own go back into place, and then rotated the joint to check it

Rei cringed at the display but knew it was necessary.

“Let’s move out, we can use retrieval platform eight to reach the surface” Shinji said

“There is no power genius” Asuka commented.

“We won’t need it” He said heading towards the platform.

“Alright you’ve got us here now what?”

Rei and Shinji stood next to the cable coming from the surface for the retrieval platform Asuka a little to the side.

“Hold on tight and we will head up to the surface” Shinji said as Rei grabbed hold of the cable with both hands. Shinji held on around Unit-00’s waist with one hand the other one free. Asuka stepped up opposite the two pilots and held on with both hands understanding the plan.

“You’re crazy but this might be our only shot” She commented tightening her grip on the cable and getting ready

“Ready Rei?” Shinji asked

“Yes, and I agree with Pilot Soryu you are crazy” She replied

Unit-01 drew its progressive knife and easily cut through the cable. Without the weight of the massive retrieval platform holding it back the cable rocketed up the tunnel taking the three Evangelions with it. The journey to the surface was just as quick maybe even quicker than a launch, the three Evas coming to a stop at the surface.

Jumping onto land they made their way towards the angel. It was easily spotted with the large legs sticking up from the city skyline.

“What is you plan Third?” Asuka asked

“We’re on the clock. Just get line of sight and kill it fast” Shinji replied ignoring the barb from Asuka

Unit-00 started climbing a security building near the platform, Unit-01 and -02 heading straight for the target at a fast pace.

“I have a visual on the angel, firing now” Rei reported

Shinji and Asuka rounded the last corner to the angel just as Rei’s shots could be heard echoing through the city. The angel’s legs moved with incredible speed blocking every single round that Rei fired. Shinji raised his pallet rifle and fired as well providing twice as many bullets to block and the angel did it until both mags had been emptied.

Shinji loaded another mag as Rei jumped down from the building and started to race towards Unit-01 and -02. The angel jumped up in the air as high as the skyscrapers and fired a strange looking energy ball at Unit-01 and -02 just as Asuka started to charge at the angel.

“Huh” Asuka was taken completely by surprise as the energy ball sped towards her and Shinji expanding when it hit the ground between them and then exploding destroying every armour layer over the geo-front. Unit-01 and -02 started falling until Unit-01 was able to grab a foundation and Unit-02 at the same time, Asuka looking on helplessly as the earth fell away from her and down into the bottom of the geo-front.

“Ahhhhhh” She let out realising the height she was dangling at “Shinji, I don’t want to die” She got out

“Hold on Asuka I got you” Shinji replied “Just reach up and grab the surface”

“I can’t, oh god I don’t want to die” She got out emotions overcoming thought processes

“You’re not gonna die” Shinji gritted out putting in all his effort to keep a firm hold of Unit-02 “Reach up and grab the surface” He said again trying to pull Unit-02 just a little higher.

Asuka could see the surface and stretched for it feeling the earth and concrete she griped hard and pulled herself out of the hole only to look back and see Unit-01 still dangling precariously with the angel slowly closing in on their position.

Unit-00 made it to a weapons store and ripped the door of the building revealing three shotguns.

“Prefect” Rei whispered to no one in particular before dashing off towards the angel. Rounding a corner she could see the position of Unit-02 and -01. “Pilot Soryu catch” She called out throwing a shotgun at Asuka.

The angel moved in over Shinji and eyed him for a moment before lining him up to finish him off.

“Shinji catch” Rei called out again throwing another shotgun.

“One minute of power left give it everything you have” Asuka called out cocking the shotgun and firing repeatedly.

The angel was caught off guard by the other two Evas the shotgun rounds blowing holes in its body easily as acid started to seep out of the wounds onto the ground. The angel knew it had blown its opportunity for victory and moved in over Unit-01 to finish it off. Its small mouth opening up and a yellow glow started to build up inside.

“Eat this” Shinji said ramming the shot gun into the angel’s mouth and pulling the trigger. The round detonated the energy build up destroying the angel’s core in the process causing a massive explosion as acid covered a part of the area. Unit-01’s armour was burned off its forearm.

“30 seconds get Shinji out of there” Asuka said.

Rei was closer and moved to Unit-01 and grabbed hold of the arm despite the massive pain from having armour and skin burned of the arm and then being yanked on it was worth it.

“Arraagghhh” Shinji cried out as he was dragged back onto the surface as the power ran out.

Unit-01 slumped in a heap badly damaged from the fight, armour still smouldering from the acid that had covered it. Unit-00 and -02 stood over Unit-01 not moving either. All they could do was wait for retrieval now.

The power came back on with a hum as the geo-front and Nerv Headquarters came to life, power snapping back on at the command deck, everyone squinting as their eyes were assaulted by the light after having adjusted to the darkness for so long.

“Status reports” Fuyutsuki ordered

“Dummy programs through the magi have worked, data loss and integrity is ok” Ritsuko replied.

“Get me visual on the surface, what’s the status of the angel?” Fuyutsuki moved onto the next important task.

“Looks like the angel has been destroyed, though there has been some massive damage and the geo-front has been breached” Maya replied as gasps could be heard around the room as everyone got the first sight of the city.

“I don’t like the look of that” Fuyutsuki muttered to himself “Dispatch retrieval and medical crews to each eva, getting the children back unharmed is your top priority” He ordered to a chorus of “Yes sirs”

While Rei had lacked a lot of emotions or the understanding to process them she had been growing quickly since the third child came to Tokyo-3. She now understood boredom and it sucked. It did give her time to think about everything but that could be done anytime, though there was nothing else to do now but wait for retrieval crews.

Her thoughts drifted to her brother, she knew that they were getting better and better at understanding each other, they were very effective together in combat and she felt a little guilty for climbing the security building and leaving Shinji. This was just because he was hurt and it appeared bad but she still felt it. No one could ever get feeling out of her like he did, not even the commander.

Aside from that they were also good at reading each other in general. Shinji always seemed to be waiting for he to continue a conversation when she had more to say when others would think she was finished, but she also knew she was just as good at reading Shinji. She was interested in the dynamics between Shinji and Pilot Soryu, he keeps insisting there is no attraction and his actions suggest confirming that, sometimes he appears to hate the way she acts especially when Asuka is putting her down or being mean so who is it that he keeps staring at in class, this was odd but she was sure she could figure it out eventually. Either that or Shinji will say something when he is ready.

Asuka was getting bored; she had been in the entry plug with no power for an hour according to the chronometer on her wrist. She wasn’t worried about being left there, with the angel beaten Nerv would come for them quickly once they got the power back up. With all the time to herself she had thought back over the battle, Shinji had definitely saved her life, she would have fallen to her death if it wasn’t for his quick thinking. She knew she had panicked when she started falling and could see the floor of the geo-front below her.

This then led to thinking about Shinji, he had saved her life and risked his own to kill the angel. He looked very bad through the com window when the power went out, he must have been in a lot of pain, and she remembered something about him actually getting the same injuries as his eva. Unit-01 had lost all the skin from the hand to the elbow by the time Rei had dragged him screaming in pain from the hole over the geo-front. She was worried for him, she knew it but tried to squash those feelings deep down inside, that would only lead to weakness. She knew Shinji was very brave and strong, it showed in the way he fought. It didn’t matter that he was protected by Eva the most advanced weapon in the world because she realised now that essentially he wasn’t protected, he got all the pain and injuries the Eva got, that’s not protection.

A banging broke her from her thoughts of Shinji. Shinji, she had seen him with no shirt around the base but only now did she really notice how bad the scars on his body were now. He was covered and many of them looked old, like he had them for a few years so he must have been at least 10 or 12 when he got them. Finally the noise of cutting could be heard and she couldn’t think of anything else.

The LCL started falling away quickly and then the hatch flew open letting in daylight. Asuka stuck her head up seeing her retrieval crew. “Come with us please Pilot Soryu” The lead officer spoke

Asuka nodded and stepped out seeing she was the first one out of her Eva. Rei’s crew was working on Unit-00 and Unit-01 hadn’t moved and no one was there.

“This way” the lead officer spoke motioning Asuka to a humve that was waiting next to two vans with medical supplied and the cutters for getting into the entry plugs.

“Wait” She got out without thinking

“Pilot Soryu please we must secure your safety” The lead officer spoke sternly showing that this was not negotiable

“Where is Unit-01’s crew?” She asked

“They ran into technical difficulties they are still 10 minutes out” Came the reply from a technician

“So get Shinji out yourself, he was hurt badly before we lost power” She cried out turning to head to Unit-01 only to be stopped by a hand

“Please we have our orders secure your safety, let us carry them out or we will use force to carry them out” Replied the lead officer.

“No!! Help Shinji now” Asuka squirmed to break free but was unable to until she felt a sting in her shoulder “Ouch! What was tha...” She got out as she collapsed

“Put her in the humve and have medical check her out” The lead officer ordered

“What about Unit-01?” Another technician asked

“His crew is two minutes away let them handle it” Came the reply as a crack was heard and Unit-00 entry plug was opened revealing an uninjured Rei Ayanami

“What has happened?” Rei asked quietly

“Pilot Ayanami we are here to escort you and the other two pilots back to Nerv” Replied the lead officer of her retrieval crew

“Yes Sir” She replied seeing a Nerv VTOL moving in over Unit-02 with a power cable and noticed that Unit-01’s crew was only getting on site now.

“This way please” Her lead officer directed her towards the humve.

“What is the status of Shi... Pilot Ikari?” Rei asked

“His rescue crew is on site now to extract him” Came the reply as Rei headed to the humve and saw Asuka there unconscious.

“What happened to Pilot Soryu?” She asked quietly

“She had to be sedated after being extracted” Came the reply

A very small furrow crossed Rei’s forehead at this, something must have gone very wrong for that to happen but she had no idea and would find out later.

“Get medical over here” Came a call as Unit-01’s plug was ejected

Shinji was loaded onto a stretcher unconscious and put into the back of the humve as the pilots were loaded up and speed towards Nerv.

“Status report, what’s going on?” Misato asked as she raced through the bridge doors.

“The angel was defeated by the evas, the pilots are on route to headquarters now” Ritsuko replied looking at her long time friend

“An angel?” Misato got out

“Yes, let’s go to the return bay I’ll explain everything on the way” Ritsuko replied “Where were you anyway?” She asked as an after thought

“Stuck in an elevator with Kaji” Misato replied sourly

To be continued.