FicWad

Disclaimer: See Chapter 1.

Chapter 12:

Shinji was walking to Hikari’s place after finishing cleaning up the class room; Hikari reasoned he could do it for once today before studying. He looked at the directions she had written down for him and stuffed the paper in his pocket. He pulled out his phone and dialled a number

“Hello” came the voice on the call.

“Ryoji are we still on for shooting tomorrow night?” Shinji asked

“Of course what’s up?” He asked knowing he wouldn’t be calling just to confirm this

“Misato wants to come along. Is that ok?” Shinji asked

Kaji thought for a moment “Its fine Shinji I don’t have a problem with it” He replied

“Alright cool. I’ll let her know” Shinji replied

“Alright take care till then” Kaji replied

“I will you too” Shinji replied ending the call.

‘Shooting with Katsuragi..... Just like old times’ Kaji thought as he leaned back in his chair silently thanking Shinji for a golden opportunity. He knew Misato was very protective of Shinji. He had heard how she was concerned for his future while others on the bridge were more concerned with his numbers in the cockpit.

He wasn’t worried about Misato sticking her nose in or trying to be over protective of Shinji and stopping the two men from what they had begun. He knew that they were operating outside of all channels and Misato was going to have to be brought in eventually....... Eventually. But this was too good to pass up, the spy wanted to make things right with his former lover before it was too late and this might just be the start.

Getting to Hikari’s place Shinji found a double story house that looked very nice and loving. A picket fence out the front a nice set of curtains pulled back that would let a lot of light in; walking up the front steps onto the deck he pressed the door bell and waited.

As the door flew open “Hi” came the young voice of what must have been Hikari’s little sister

“Hi” Shinji replied

“Who are you?” The little girl asked her twin pig tails bouncing as she looked up at him.

Shinji could see the relation instantly it was like looking at a mini younger Hikari.

“I’m Shinji Ikari” The pilot replied “Are you Hikari’s sister?” Shinji asked

“Ah huh” The little girl replied rocking back and forth on her heels and toes

“Nozomi manners” Hikari chided as she came down the stairs towards the front door

“Sorry come on in” The young girl replied not taking her eyes off Shinji

“Hi Shinji, sorry about that” Hikari greeted the young pilot

“Its fine” Shinji replied

“Come on this way let’s get started” Hikari replied leading Shinji to a table where she had left her school books.

“What are you guys doing?” Nozomi asked

“I’m helping Shinji out with some work for school” Hikari replied “It’s time for you to go do your homework as well” Hikari replied

“Can I work with you guys?” Nozomi replied batting her eyes at her older sister

Hikari look at Shinji to see what he would say “I don’t mind you’re the one helping me out” Shinji replied

“Great I’ll go get my stuff” Nozomi replied racing off with a spring in her step

“You sure you’re ok with this?” Hikari asked “I don’t want her distracting you” Hikari added

“Its fine, she’s really cute” Shinji replied

“Yeah” Hikari replied

The two started on some physics, Shinji struggling with it as it was his worst subject but with Hikari’s help he understood it a little better. Nozomi was working away at her work seeing what her sister and friend were up to all the time.

“Keep concentrating on your work Nozomi” Hikari directed her sister’s attention back to her books

Nozomi sticking her tongue out before return to her work. Shinji snorting in amusement at the exchange

“You too” Hikari whispered to Shinji getting a nod in reply as he stuck his head back into his books

“Are you one of them?” Nozomi asked out of no where

“One of what?” Shinji replied

“One of the pilots I heard they are in Hikari’s class” Nozomi replied

“Nozomi don’t pry and keep working” Hikari interrupted getting her sister back into line.

“It’s ok and yes I am” Shinji replied thankful for the temporary break

“I thought I recognised you from the internet” Nozomi replied “One second” She said dashing from her seat and heading up stairs presumably to her room.

“What does she mean the internet?” Hikari asked

“Nerv has been using Kensuke’s blog for PR releases he has an interview and video of some testing we have done plus all the other stuff he has been able to collect himself” Shinji replied “Don’t worry it has all been approved no one will get in any trouble over it” Shinji added seeing the look on Hikari’s face

“Alright” Hikari replied then turning back to her computer she opened a web browser and started looking for Kensuke’s web blog

Hikari found what she was looking for just as Nozomi came back. Standing sheepishly next to Shinji with a piece of paper behind her back rocking on her heels and toes like before at the door

“Say um Shinji can I have a favour?” Nozomi asked nervously

“Sure name it” Shinji replied with a smile trying to ease the little girl’s nerves

“Can I have your autograph?” She asked pushing the paper forward.

“Of course you can” Shinji replied taking the paper.

Holding it up brought a smile to the pilots face there was a colour image of the amazing still Kensuke had captured from the weapons test at Matsushiro he had never seen it till now since he was injured in the last fight and he had been so busy with everything else since then. Putting the paper down he scribbled a message on it and signed at the end before handing it back to the little girl offering her a smile that grew as she read the message he eyes going wide with each passing second.

“Thank you Shinji” Nozomi said then took the pilot completely off guard by hugging him and then rushing over to Hikari who had her head buried in her computer. “Hikari Hikari look” The young girl waved the picture at her sister

Looking at the picture she saw Unit-01 behind a sniper rifle looking very menacing but then noticed some writing in the top corner of the picture

To my friend Nozomi.
Be careful and take care.
Best Wishes. Shinji Ikari.

This was followed by Shinji’s signature

“Now everyone at school will believe me when I tell them that the pilot goes to your school and we are friends” She explained with a face splitting grin.

Hikari looked on as her mouth open wider and wider with each moment. It was only the other month that Nozomi had come home crying after being called a liar when she said the pilots went to her sister’s school. Though Shinji didn’t know it that simple message would mean the world to the little girl and if he meant it she would be over the moon with happiness and excitement.

“Shinji you didn’t have to do that” Hikari whispered

“I don’t mind and it’s ok really” The pilot replied

“But still it means the world to her we can’t thank you enough” Hikari replied

“It is ok just don’t ever get rid of it, after all it is the first one I have written” Shinji replied

Hikari was shocked for the second time in as many minutes here was a pilot getting all kinds of offers from pretty girls at school for autographs and dates and the first one he fills out is for a little girl he just met.

“Why now?” Was all Hikari could get out

“Everyone at school just wants it for bragging rights it wouldn’t mean anything to them, I can tell this means a lot to Nozomi” Shinji replied

“Do you mean it?” Hikari whispered so Nozomi couldn’t hear

“Friends?” Shinji clarified in a voice just as quiet to which Hikari nodded “Of course”

“That’s nice” Hikari replied “Well it’s getting late maybe we should leave it there for now” Hikari said

“Fine by me” Shinji replied though in all honesty he was done at least 45 minutes ago maybe more.

“Do you want to stay for dinner?” Hikari asked

“Yeah come on Shinji it will be fun please stay” Nozomi chimed in

“I’m sorry but I can’t, next time?” Shinji asked

“Why not Shinji it will be ok?” Nozomi asked

“Nozomi don’t pry” Hikari chided

“It’s ok, I’ve still got a lot of work to do at home plus it’s my night to cook as well, next time ok” Shinji replied

“Alright but you promise” Nozomi asked

“Promise” Shinji replied as Nozomi held out her pinkey

“Pinkey swear?” She asked with hopeful eyes.

“Pinkey swear” Shinji replied linking the digits

“Well I guess that settles it” Hikari replied as Shinji started packing up his book bag.

Hikari carried her stuff up her room and came back as Shinji was ready to go.

“Well I’m off, thanks for all your help tonight” Shinji said as he and Hikari walked to the front door.

“My pleasure” Hikari replied “And thanks for autographing Nozomi’s picture it means the world to her”

“No problem. I’ll see you at school” Shinji replied

“See you at school” Hikari replied as she shut the door

Shinji started the walk home and swore he could hear Nozomi’s muffled voice asking Hikari a thousand questions through the door.

Shinji got home to find Asuka on the lounge watching the T.V and Misato doing paperwork at the kitchen table. “I’m home” he called out

“How did it go Shinji?” Misato asked

“It was ok” Shinji replied

“Where is dinner baka?” Asuka demanded

“I’ll get started in a minute keep your pants on” Shinji retorted

“Just hurry up” Asuka growled

Shinji ignored the temperamental German as he headed to his room to ditch his books and came back out ready to cook.

“So what are you working on Misato?” He asked his guardian.

“Just a report for the committee it’s essentially a rehash of all the battles against the angels” Misato replied as she continued to type away on her laptop

“How come you have to do that?” Shinji asked

“Commanders orders” Misato replied

“Figures” Shinji mumbled as he got to work on his dinner.

Misato hated paper work at the best of times but this would be the first time she could remember not totally loathing it or thinking about burning it all where it lay. She knew there was an easy answer for this and that was the aroma coming from the kitchen. Shinji’s cooking did smell amazing tonight

“What is that Shinji?” Misato asked almost drooling on the computer at how good dinner smelt

“Terraki beef and vegetables on rice” Shinji replied

“Smells great” Misato replied

“5 minutes and it will be ready” Shinji replied “Say Misato what are you doing tomorrow night after work?” Shinji asked

“Nothing why?” Misato replied

“Do you want to come shooting with me and Kaji?” Shinji asked

Misato thought for a moment, Kaji would be there but their interactions have been different lately almost more genuine and this was an opportunity to go shooting with Shinji.

“Sure thing just at the Nerv range after work?” Misato replied

“Yeah” Shinji replied

“Great” Misato replied “Guess I’ll finish this off tomorrow” She added packing up her computer and stowing it in her room

Coming back ready for a feast Misato was surprised by how good the food smelled and looked. Grabbing a Yesubi and sitting at her seat Misato was happy that everyone was there for once.

“This is nice being able to have dinner together” Misato replied

“Yeah” Shinji offered though she could tell he didn’t mean it.

“This tastes like crap when are you going to cook something descent to eat?” Asuka grumbled

“If you don’t like it make your own dinner” Shinji replied barely civilly

The pilot of Unit-02 stood up and dumped her whole plate in the bin “There now it’s where it belongs” Asuka exclaimed triumphantly before leaving the kitchen for her room.

“I’m sorry about that Shinji” Misato replied

“Don’t be it isn’t your fault” Shinji replied

“It really does taste great” Misato replied

“I’m glad you like it” Shinji replied

Asuka came out of her room and headed to the front door “I’m going to the mall to get some real dinner don’t wait up” She said walking out the front door

“Look Shinji I know things are not working with you and Asuka but we need to find something that will work for you both” Misato said once the German was gone.

“Fine I don’t care anymore” Shinji replied “So long as she isn’t being mean to Rei or you I don’t care about the rest” Shinji added

“Why don’t you care about the rest. She isn’t nice to you at all?” Misato replied

“She is a spoiled brat hardly worthy of my time” Shinji replied

“Look I can see it drags you down let me make some enquiries tomorrow and I’ll see what I can do” Misato replied

“Alright just don’t do anything crazy” Shinji replied

“I won’t” Misato replied

Guardian and ward continued exchanging chit chat as they enjoyed dinner.

Hikari caught Shinji at the end of class the next day.

“Hi Shinji” The pigtailed girl greeted the young man.

“Hey Hikari” Shinji replied as he was stuffing his computer and books into his bag.

“When will you be free to study again?” She asked

“I don’t know I’m busy at Nerv for the rest of the week” Shinji replied “I’ll make some time for next week” He added seeing Hikari’s face drop a little at that statement

“Great. Do you mind if Nozomi joins us again?” She asked

“Of course not, it was fine last time” Shinji the replied.

“Great, she was talking about how much fun she had all night, I never thought I would hear her say that about study” Hikari replied

“I’m glad she had a good time but don’t forget you are the one doing me a favour it’s my grades that need improving so thank you” Shinji replied

“It’s no problem” Hikari replied as a blush graced her cheeks.

“Well I better get going” Shinji replied as Asuka approached Hikari

“What are you doing taking up Hikari’s time pervert” Asuka sneered at Shinji

“I’m not” Shinji replied picking up his bag “Later Hikari” Shinji said walking off as Rei headed out the door after him

“Asuka that wasn’t very nice” Hikari replied

“He deserves it he is a real jerk” Asuka replied hatefully

“What are you talking about Asuka?” Hikari asked not believing that Shinji could be that bad to make Asuka talk like this

“He has just been a real jerk at Nerv and home, you shouldn’t be helping him” Asuka replied

“You were there Misato said it was for his own good” Hikari replied

“Yeah but he doesn’t even study at home or anything you are wasting your time trying to tutor him” Asuka shot back

Hikari found this hard to believe, the boy that had made her little sister so happy who had put in so much effort when she was tutoring him. The boy she was becoming more attracted to with each encounter.

“What are you talking about Asuka what happened?” Hikari asked

“Nothing” Asuka replied “Let’s drop this and get going” She changed topics

“Alright” Hikari replied finding the Germans words hard to stomach

Rei caught Shinji as he was on his way out of school

“Is everything ok brother?” She asked

“I’m ok sister” Shinji replied

He never did get bored of calling Rei his sister it was nice to have family around and he was sure she felt the same.

“Are you sure?” Rei pressed

“Yeah I’ll be fine Asuka is just getting on my nerves” Shinji replied

“I can see that just don’t do anything you will regret” Rei reminded her brother

“I won’t” Shinji replied

“What are you doing after the sync test?” Rei asked

“Going to the range with Misato and Kaji” Shinji replied

“Do you think I could watch?” Rei asked

The question surprised Shinji “Sure if you want” He offered

“It is good to know that I can still surprise you” Rei replied reading her brother easily

“Why is that?” Shinji asked

“It keeps you on your toes” Rei replied devilishly “How is tutoring going with Hikari?” She added

“It’s ok, I made friends with her little sister Nozomi” Came the reply

“That’s good” Rei replied

“What do you mean?” Shinji asked perplexed

“Making friends with Hikari’s sister will only help in making Hikari like you more” Rei replied though it was lost on her brother

“I don’t get it” Shinji asked puzzled

“It’s ok you probably never will” Rei replied

“Is this girl speak again?” Shinji asked

“Yes” Rei replied

“You’re right I probably never will understand” Shinji replied

The two siblings made it to Nerv and for the first time they had talked all the way as they headed to the locker rooms to get ready for todays sync test.

“Hmmm this is interesting” Ritsuko commented looking over the readouts from the sync test

“What’s wrong?” Misato asked

“What makes you think something is wrong?” Ritsuko asked

“The way you said it and didn’t tell anyone what you are talking about” Misato replied “So spill” She added with a victorious smirk

“I’ve never seen Shinji’s sync ratio move around so much........” Pausing for a breath she added “His average is the same still 200% but there are a lot more fluctuations than normal”

“What do you mean?” Misato asked

“Come here and have a look” Ritsuko called her over “Look here at this graph, see all the fluctuations here” Ritsuko said pointing out the data “Now look at this test from last week see how the readings are a lot more steady”

“Ok I see, so what does that mean?” Misato asked

Pulling up the video monitor showed Shinji with a hardened look of concentration on his face a far distance from the relaxed visage that usually graced the monitors during a sync test.

“It seems to me like something is on his mind” Ritsuko said “Has anything changed lately?” She asked

“Yeah, Shinji has always been pressed for time since he came here. He spends a lot of time working on his piloting skills and keeping fit and now he has just taken on tutoring to help with his grades” Misato replied leaving out the extracurricular activities he was taking on with Kaji knowing that this was eating up all his spare time as well.

“Why did he take on the tutoring?” Ritsuko asked

“Have you seen his grades?” Misato asked

“Yes I have” Ritsuko replied

“Well he has only been once and I let the class representative talk me into it after he scored 15% on a quiz and got into an argument with her over it” Misato replied

“What!? Why would you do that?” Ritsuko asked with a shocked look on her face “You know his time is spread thin as it is what does he have to gain from that?” She added

“Well long term it’s best for his future. His grades are so poor he would be unemployable when he finishes school” Misato replied “That and you should see the way she looks at him it’s so cute and I just thought it would be good for him to do something outside of Nerv, he barely sees his two friends from school” She added

“You should have sent him to an arcade with his buddies not heaped more work on his shoulders” Ritsuko replied

“It’s best for his future” Misato replied “And he agreed after thinking about it” She added quickly.

“Fine but if this gets any worse or he starts showing signs of burnout he will have to start giving things up starting with the tutoring” Ritsuko replied

“Fine but only if Shinji thinks he isn’t up to it” Misato replied

“Alright we are done here Maya can you get the pilots out” Ritsuko ordered

“Yes ma’am” came the reply as Maya spoke into the mic and ended the test at the same time

The pilots stood before Ritsuko and Misato as Ritsuko read out the test scores.

“Rei you scored 73% Asuka you scored 79% and Shinji you scored 200” Ritsuko read out the scores not getting a reaction from any of the pilots.

Asuka and Rei had increases 1 point in 2 weeks while Shinji’s ratio was still the same. It was obvious Asuka was seething with rage as her test scores were not improving at a rate to catch Shinji though no one expected them to.

“Are there any questions?” Misato asked

“No ma’am” Was the reply from the siblings

Asuka just grunted her displeasure

“Go get cleaned up you guys are done for the night here” Misato ordered

“Shinji I’d like to see you in my office once you are done” Ritsuko replied as everyone was about to leave

“Yes Doctor” Shinji replied before heading to the locker rooms with the others

Shinji ran into Rei outside the locker rooms. Both pilots were dressed in their casual uniform with the bomber jackets zipped up as the weather was getting colder lately

“Do you know what Dr. Akagi wants?” Rei asked

“Not a clue” Shinji replied

“Are you still going to the shooting range?” Rei continued on

“Yeah as soon as Dr. Akagi is done with me” Shinji replied

“I will meet you at the range then” Rei replied

“Sure I’ll see you there” Shinji replied turning for Dr. Akagi’s office

“Come in” Came Ritsuko’s voice as Shinji knocked on the door to her office

“You wanted to see me Ritsuko?” Shinji asked

“Yes take a seat” Ritsuko replied motioning to a chair opposite her desk.

Shinji sat down and continued looking at Dr. Akagi

“Misato said you have just taken tutoring on to help improve your grades?” Ritsuko asked.

“That’s right” Shinji replied

“Are you managing with the work load?” Ritsuko asked

“I’ve only had one lesson so far but I’m doing ok. To be honest it’s the last of my priorities” Shinji replied honestly

“I see. Here’s the thing Shinji, I don’t want to see you burn yourself out” Ritsuko replied

“Alright” Shinji replied

“I’m glad you are putting your studies in their right place and concentrating on what is important but just remember to take it easy ever now and then as well ok” Ritsuko replied

“I will” Shinji replied

“Ok and I need a blood sample just to make sure everything is ok, it’s routine” Ritsuko replied

“Sure when?” Shinji asked

“I can do it now if you have 30 seconds” Ritsuko replied

“Alright” Shinji replied rolling up his jacket and shirt sleave

Shinji got to the range before everyone else and saw Rei sitting at an empty table behind the firing area drinking some water.

“What did Dr. Akagi want?” Rei asked once Shinji sat down with her

“She wants to make sure I’m not over doing it with the tutoring and to take a blood sample as well” Shinji replied

“What was the blood sample for?” Rei asked suspiciously

“A routine check” Shinji replied

Rei arched an eyebrow at this but said nothing

“Are you ok?” She asked

“I’m ok but thanks for the concern” Shinji replied

“Just be careful” Rei replied

“I will and don’t worry I’m not overdoing it” Shinji replied

“When are the others coming?” Rei asked

“Any minute, I think they are running late” Shinji replied

“Well I better let you get ready” Rei replied

“Thanks I need to clean my gun” Shinji replied

“Alright and thank you for letting me watch, this will be interesting” Rei replied

Shinji headed over to the firing line with a rag. He started stripping the USP45 easily getting it apart in a minute. He started cleaning everything inside the pistol. Once he was satisfied with everything he started putting it back together.

“Hellooooo” Took his attention away from what he was doing

“Hi Misato, Hi Ryoji” he greeted his guardian and partner

“Hi Shinji are you ready?” Kaji asked

“All set” Shinji replied snapping the slide into place with a click as the first round was chambered

“Well let’s get started” Misato replied with a grin as she pulled out her Heckler and Koch.

Kaji copying his former lover pulled a Walther PPK. Shinji noticed they both seemed a little happier than normal. He grinned at this as the three started firing rounds down the range at their respective targets, his smile growing a little bigger as the time passed. The young man decided this was defiantly better as a group activity.

After a while of shooting at still targets they brought them in to inspect their handy work. Each one of them had very good groupings. “Still as lethal as ever Katsuragi” Kaji commented.

“Thanks Kaji” Misato replied

All the while Rei had been watching everything going on. Kaji and Misato’s interactions and the way Shinji looked up to the Spy with a lot of respect.

“So Shinji you’re very good, have you tried the course yet?” Misato asked

“What course” Shinji replied

“There is an obstacle course in the pit, you should give it a go, more of a challenge then shooting at still targets” Misato replied

“Alright lead the way” Shinji replied

Misato motioned for Rei to follow them “Alright you three head up there to the observation tower and I’ll run the course. You should be able to get a feel for what is involved but remember the targets are never in the same place” Misato explained to Shinji

“Alright that sounds good” Shinji replied

“Also one more thing the targets will simulate shooting at you. The rules are if your being fired at you will have to take cover and wait till the targets stop shooting before you can return fire. Don’t worry it’s simulated but you will know when you’re being shot at” Misato explained

“Here Katsuragi rules are rules” Kaji replied handing her a vest.

“Thanks” Misato replied taking the vest and putting it on over her shirt then putting her flight jacket over it

Misato headed down to the start of the course and grabbed a couple of extra clips from the table down there while the other headed up to the observation booth.

“Why did Misato have to wear a vest?” Shinji asked Ryoji

“Rules of the range everyone running the course has to wear a vest” Ryoji replied

Shinji nodded and the three of them watched as Misato ran the course shooting all the targets and none of the hostages.

“That looks really hard” Shinji commented

“It is Misato is exceptional at what she does” Ryoji replied

Misato headed back up with a piece of paper in her hands “New PB” She said waving it at Kaji as he took the paper and had a look.

“7:25 at 100% Very impressive Katsuragi” He thought about adding a joke about not crossing her but left it at that.

“Alright Shinji you’re up” Misato said

“I don’t know if I can do that” Shinji replied

“I don’t expect you too this is just for something different think of it as a challenge to work towards” Misato replied with a kind smile on her face

“Alright” Shinji replied

“Just take your time and enjoy it” She added

“This should be your size” Kaji replied handing Shinji a vest.

He did the same as Misato slipping it on over his shirt then put is bomber jacket over the top. The young pilot looked very impressive as he headed down to the pit dropping four clips into the cargo pockets of his pants Unit-01’s menacing image on his shoulder pilot wings on his left chest he looked ready to go

Rei moved closer to the front of the observation box to get a better look at her brother. The automated course brought up a red light that turned green and Shinji headed straight through the gate.

He came to a small wall as five targets appeared two of them holding hostages at gun point. Small crackers built into the front of the wall went off giving the effect of being shot at. Shinji took cover on the left side of the wall and waited for the shots to stop. Once there was a pause he moved out from cover and shot the first two targets burying two rounds through each head as the boards dropped down to the ground indicating a kill.

The targets started firing again and Shinji returned to the cover of the wall Shinji quickly moved the five metres to the other end of the wall and got a line of sight on two targets one with a hostage and one without. Shooting the target with the hostage in the head and then putting two rounds quickly in the chest of the second target both boards falling to the ground the last target turned picking up on Shinji’s movement and started firing at his position the crackers in the wall going off again as Shinji took cover.

Waiting for the firing to stop Shinji crouched behind the middle of the wall. Once the firing stopped he vaulted the wall landing in front of the hostage and the hostile and shot the hostile through the head as the board fell to the ground. Moving through to the next area with his gun up and sights levelled Shinji headed through a long corridor. A target popped up on his right and Shinji quickly took it down continuing to walk down the corridor as another target came up on his left which he killed.

Walking through a door way at the end of the corridor the walls dropped down to waist level. Continuing along Shinji kept scanning for targets as two popped up on his left. Shinji quickly brought his sights up one target pulling on the trigger instinctively ‘Click’ out of ammo “Shit” Shinji muttered at the slip up as he took cover as the targets started firing at him. Loading a new clip he pushed his gun under the barrier and angled it up and started pulling on the trigger, getting lucky as three of the five rounds found the chest of one target. Once the shooting stopped Shinji popped up and easily shot the last target in the head twice both boards now on the deck.

Continuing on Shinji came to the front of a double story house with four windows and an open door way. Targets coming up in each one with the top floor targets moving across, one of them on the balcony at the top and the second one using the windows as cover, the three targets down the bottom held hostages.

Shinji took cover as the inevitable fire came and waited for his break. Breaking to the right Shinji shot the ground floor target on the window then waited for the target moving on the balcony and shot it once it came into view. Rolling and bring his gun up he shot the hostile in the door way and the last target on the roof as it passed across a window firing the rounds through the wall before the target even got a look at him.

Standing up and running to the door he moved into the house and turned left ripping the board down with his hands and shooting the target in the head as it lay on the floor. Moving down a corridor in the house that opened out into a large room at the end a target came up holding a hostage. Shinji quickly shot the target in the neck but the bullet clipped the top of the hostage’s board causing both boards to fall to the floor. Shinji continued up the flight of stairs with his gun up a hostage come at him point blank as he moved to the top of the stairs the targets head filling his sights so Shinji fired a round and quickly loaded another clip.

Moving into the room Shinji had a pillar on his right as three targets popped up around him. Shooting the target in front of him three times as he crouched by the pillar he quickly turned and shot the target on his left as the third target shot at him. Waiting for his break he moved from cover and quickly took out the third target.

Moving behind some sand bags he took cover on a ledge and found six targets taking out the three close ones easily Shinji loaded his last clip and put a round through the head of the far target as he vaulted the sandbag wall and dropped down to ground level rolling off a burned out car body as he hit the ground and took cover behind a wall. Waiting for the targets to stop shooting at him and peaking around the wall showed him four targets with hostages.

As soon as the shooting stopped Shinji broke from cover killing the first two targets with head shots. The third target moved behind cover so Shinji shot the fourth in the head and then tried to shoot the third through the cover but the rounds bounced off the cover. With one round left the target moved from cover and Shinji lined up a neck shot and pulled the trigger the round bouncing off the target Shinji raced across the five meters to the target and pulled his arm back and smashed the empty pistol through the head of the target knocking the board to the ground.

Shinji strode towards the finish line with purpose looking over his shoulder to survey his handy work then with a glance and a smile up at the observation box he could see Rei right next to the window with Misato and Kaji’s silhouettes behind her. Ascending the stairs he headed to the observation box.

“Nice work Shinji” Kaji greeted the young man as he walked through the door.

“So what did you think Shinji?” Misato asked

Shinji thought about what he had just run through and all the different scenarios he had been through. It was easy to see why Section 2 would use this for their training ground. Hell a military base could use something similar to this.

“It’s pretty tough” Shinji offered only now he realised that he needed a drink as the course was very taxing even for someone with his level of fitness.

“You did incredibly well. No one in Section 2 runs the course that well even for your first time” Misato replied

Shinji was gob smacked he didn’t know what to say to that so he said nothing.

“A time of 15:14 with 90% accuracy and all hostiles killed with one causality, and that was unlucky at that” Kaji read out Shinji’s marks

“Here you will need these” Misato said handing her ward a fresh clip and a bottle of water.

“Thanks Misato” Shinji replied.

“Have you had enough for the night?” Kaji asked

“Yeah I think I’m done” Shinji replied still coming to terms with how good his score was on the course

“Well Misato and I will pack up” Kaji replied “Then we can head home”

“And now you know where the course is keep coming back” Misato added

“I will thanks for showing it to me” Shinji replied

Misato and Kaji left to pack up leaving Shinji and Rei alone.

“I never knew you were this good” Rei said getting her brothers attention.

“Honestly me either” Shinji replied

“Your score sounds really impressive, Misato and Kaji were amazed at everything you did on the course and in the range tonight, and I must say though I have no knowledge of such things I am impressed as well” Rei added

“Thanks Rei, that’s nice” Shinji replied

Misato and Kaji returned as the quartet headed to the surface. Kaji parting ways and Misato driving Rei home with Shinji. The drive was sedated until Misato dropped Rei off at her apartment reminding the first child there was a cross sync test between her and Shinji. Misato then assumed her natural driving style for the rest of the trip.

Shinji waited for Rei outside the locker room he really wanted to talk to her before getting into Unit-00, he was a little nervous to be piloting his sister’s Eva. He just didn’t want anything to go wrong that would wreck it for her.

“Hey Rei” Shinji got her attention

“Hi Shinji, is everything ok?” Rei asked reading her brother easily and knowing he must have rushed to be waiting for her out here.

“I’m just a little nervous I don’t want to break your Eva” Shinji replied

“You won’t I have confidence in you” Rei replied

“How do you synchronise with Eva?” Shinji asked

“I open my mind to Eva” Rei replied a little cryptically

“Open your mind?” Shinji repeated

“Yes you must to so to allow a strong bond with Eva, open your mind and listen to what is before you” Rei offered

“Alright I’ll try that, thanks Sister” Shinji replied

“How do you do it?” Rei asked

“Ritsuko said think about what I’m doing and the Eva will do it. I just concentrate on that” Shinji replied but I’ll try your way with Unit-00” Shinji replied

“Are you two ready” Misato called out seeing Shinji and Rei talking outside the locker rooms

Rei looked at Shinji and he gave a small nod with a slight smile at his sister “Yes ma’am we are ready” Rei replied

Rei sat in Unit-01’s entry plug as the start up sequence began, it was the same as with Unit-00 but completely different at the same time. She settled into the pilot’s seat and relaxed in the smell of her brother. So many times he had put his life on the line in this seat all in the name of saving humanity. So much blood spilled in here and from the angels he had killed here

“So Rei how does it feel to be piloting Unit-01 for the first time?” Ritsuko asked

“It smells like Shinji” Rei replied not really concentrating on what was happening.

The sync ratio is almost the same as with Unit-00 70%” Ritsuko commented

“Unit-00 and Unit-01 have very similar personal data” Maya commented to Ritsuko as she looked at the synchronisation and harmonics graphs of the two units.

“That’s what makes this type of experiment possible” Ritsuko commented.

Rei stopped concentrating on the com chatter completely and opened her mind right up to the eva ‘Where are you’ She thought

‘Hello sister’ came a voice that was everywhere and nowhere at the same time

‘Who is this?’ Rei replied

‘Look harder and you will see’ came the voice again

Rei concentrated more on her connection with the Eva a little fear creeping into her, she had seen what Shinji had done in here and he was brutal when it came to killing the angels.

‘Brother?’ She asked

‘Yes it is’ came the reply

‘How is this possible?’ Rei asked

‘You should be able to figure that out but since we don’t have much time it is fathers doing’ came the reply as the visage of her brother Shinji floating before her appeared and the world around them was black and endless

‘Do not be alarmed this is the evascape no one will hear you here unless you want them to’ Shinji added

‘What is going on?’ Rei asked

‘Father cloned me and had me inserted into the core so mother could be protected while the angels attacked since Unit-01 was getting damaged too badly. I take it no one knows about this’ Unit-01 replied

‘No no one knows’ Rei replied

‘Very well, our time is almost up there are two things you must know: one, that between you and Shinji you can stop the commander if you wish to live beyond destroying the world for father’s madness. Two, this will never happen again’ The eva replied

“Ok Rei you’re done now you can get out” Ritsuko’s voice broke Rei from the evascape

“Yes ma’am” She replied without missing a beat and getting out of Unit-01

“Synchronisation values are all normal” came a tech’s voice

“Harmonics are all nominal” Was another report

“Pilot status is normal”

“Of course I’m normal” Asuka muttered to herself as she sat inside Unit-02 going through a routine test

She then used Unit-02’s optics to look across at Unit-00 where Shinji was sitting

“Subject status?” Ritsuko asked

“A bit jittery but no problems found in the nerve patterns” Makoto replied

“This is his first time in Unit-00 his first time piloting another eva it’s only natural” Misato replied trying to ease the bridges concerns over Shinji in the eva.

Misato understood that he was nervous, she could tell by looking at the way he was talking to Rei before the test started and understood as well. He had fought so much in Unit-01 and done so well he was bound to be nervous getting in anything accept Unit-01

“That’s stupid why should he care which Eva he’s in anyway” Asuka muttered not realising she was on com

“It matters to Shinji that’s just the way he is” Misato replied as her face came up in Unit-02’s entry plug on a com window

“I know that he is such a dork. I don’t see why everyone has to pamper him any way” Asuka grumbled again “So why aren’t you running these tests on me?” She asked

“We didn’t think you would want to pilot any Eva accept your own” Misato replied bluffing

“Yeah that is true isn’t it” Asuka brightened up at this seeing that her feelings were being considered

“Beginning entry.... LCL electrolysed...... Commence first stage connection” came the tech voices over com

“Shinji how does it feel inside Unit-00’s entry plug?” Ritsuko asked

“It feels kind of weird” Shinji replied

“Like incompatibility?” Maya asked

“Not like that, it’s just different I guess it smells like Rei” Shinji offered.

“It smells like what? You pervert” Asuka snarled

“Pattern is green all readings are good” Maya replied

“Let’s move to second stage connection” Ritsuko ordered always looking at the telemetry from the test.

“Entering second stage connection” Maya reported

“How does it look?” Misato asked

“As I thought the sync ratio is lower than that of Unit-01 its back to 150%”Ritsuko replied “Harmonics are all normal” She added looking at various graphs

“These are still good numbers, very similar to when Shinji started” Maya offered

“That’s true I think we can continue with our plan” Ritsuko added

“The Dummy System? Ma’am I’m not sure we should proceed” Maya replied

“It will be ok, you will see” Ritsuko reassured

“Ma’am I’ve always believed in our work but I’m really not sure about this” Maya protested

“People who develop too many scruples will always have problems working with others, you’ll see once you get your hands dirty” Ritsuko replied telling her subordinate that this was going ahead anyway

“Yes ma’am” Was all Maya could get out

“Begin Third Stage Connection” Ritsuko ordered

“Initiating A-10 Connection” Maya reported

“All graphs are nominal” Huga added

“Is Shinji missing momma’s breast? Is it like being in her womb or what?” Asuka taunted

“Asuka stop interrupting you’re being obnoxious” Ritsuko cut the German off from her tirade

“Yeah Yeah” She blew the doctors concerns off

“Commence A-10 Nerv Connections” Ritsuko ordered

“Harmonics level plus twenty” Maya reported

Shinji sat inside the entry plug just concentrating on the test. He had never been so nervous about a sync or harmonics test before ‘Rei said open my mind so here goes’ He thought as he tried his best to relax

‘Ah there you are brother’ came a soft voice that had a small giggle attached to it

‘Who is there?’ Shinji asked

‘Look harder brother and you will see’ instructed the same voice

Shinji concentrated on the connection he had with the Eva he would have preferred to try this in Unit-01 for the first time but he didn’t have that luxury, he just kept trying not wanting to wreck his sisters Eva. Then he found himself in a black space that went on forever and someone was approaching him a small girl then he realised that blue mop that he would never forget anywhere.

‘Rei?’ He asked

‘Yes brother that’s right’ Unit-00 replied

‘How is this possible I saw you in the control room from the entry plug?’ Shinji asked

‘You know about me how I was created I am the first our sister is the second, we are the same’ Unit-00 replied

‘How did this happen?’ Shinji asked

‘The Commander deceived me and I tricked Dr. Akagi’s mother into killing me after the Magi was completed, then she killed herself. It was all covered up’ Unit-00 replied

‘So that means you are my sister as well?’ Shinji asked

‘Yes though there is much you don’t know I can see you seek the truth you must keep looking’ Unit-00 replied cryptically

‘I... I will but how do you know that?’ Shinji asked

‘Every time you sync with Eva it can see into your mind. We see your memories’ Unit-00 replied

Shinji was taken aback by this. ‘This was defiantly unexpected’ He thought to himself not realising that the Eva could hear this anyway

‘Yes I can see your past and know the pain you have suffered and who is responsible for this, and yes it is the same in Unit-01’ Unit-00 added reading Shinji’s thoughts before he could speak them ‘I know there is a lot to take in but you must endure if anyone can stop the evil that approaches it is you’

‘How am I going to do that I’m just one person?’ Shinji asked

‘You are one strong person working with others you have a good partner and a strong bond with our sister. Together you are capable of stopping the evil that comes’ Unit-00 replied

‘Alright’ Shinji replied

‘I’m glad I got to finally meet you brother, and sister is right you really should do something about Hikari’ Unit-00 replied

‘Not you too’ Shinji replied ‘How is my sister able to see these things before me’ Shinji wondered to himself

‘The test is almost over and I’m afraid we will never get to see each other again after this so good luck brother now I have something I must do’ Unit-00 spoke before the black space disappeared and Shinji found himself in the entry plug

“Something’s wrong sync and harmonics graphs are all over the place” Maya reported

Unit-00 strained against the restraints letting out a deafening roar, and after a slight struggle it was able to break its arms free from the restraints pulling massive chunks of wall with it.

“What the hell are you doing Baka?” Asuka yelled at Shinji but there was no response

Shinji could see everything Unit-00 was doing could hear Asuka’s tirade through coms but couldn’t do anything about it. He saw Unit-00 focus on Ritsuko and then a massive blue fist moved to hit the wall. Ritsuko cut the external power to Unit-00

“Unit-00 has switched to battery power” Makoto reported “20 seconds until shutdown”

Unit-00 massive blue fist continued to strike at the observation box trying to hit Ritsuko over and over again the big blue fist slammed into the wall shattering the inside layer of the viewing glass

“What’s Shinji’s status?” Misato asked

“Unknown the eva has blocked the connection” Makoto replied

Unit-00 continued its assault “10 Seconds” Maya called out Unit-00 then started using its head in a desperate attempt to break through the wall, causing the wall to buckle in

“5... 4... 3... 2... 1” Maya counted down

Then Unit-00 fell silent.

“Unit-00 power level is zero” Maya reported

“Hurry up and get the pilot out of there” Misato ordered

Shinji felt everything getting hazy then he heard the small quiet voice of his young sister

‘I’m sorry brother but I had to try please you must endure’

And everything went black

“What do you think caused this?” Misato asked Ritsuko as the two women stood in a conference room

“I don’t know all I know is a sync experiment needs to be run between Rei and Unit-00 to check for any problems but our initial scans have shown nothing” Ritsuko replied

“As the director of operations I request that it be done as soon as possible” Misato replied before walking out not waiting for Ritsuko’s reply for Misato knew whatever it was it would be a lie

Makoto put his phone down and looked across to Misato there was the woman he had adored since coming to Nerv

“The hospital just called Shinji has regained consciousness there are no signs of mental contamination but he doesn’t remember anything” He told Misato

“Right” Misato replied not liking anything that had happened from the botched test. “I’m going to medical to check on him, we are done here once your done you can go home” Misato replied

“Yes ma’am thank you” Makoto replied

Misato made it to work quickly and headed into Shinji’s room.

“Hi Shinji how are you feeling?” Misato asked

“I’m ok just tired” Shinji replied

“The nurse said you can’t remember anything are you ok?” Misato asked

‘A loaded question’ Shinji thought ‘If I can’t remember I’m not ok, if I am ok I should remember’

“I’m ok Misato really” Shinji replied

“So what happened in Unit-00?” Misato asked quietly

“Can I explain it later?” Shinji asked

Misato looked at him as she thought about her response

“I just need to make sense of it myself I’ll explain everything when I get it” Shinji added

“Alright but make sure you tell me and don’t go getting in too deep with what your doing” Misato replied with a grin

“Alright Misato” Shinji replied

“Good now you’ve been discharged I’ll drive you home” Misato replied

2 weeks passed since the Unit-00 incident. Rei’s synchronisation with Unit-00 was successful and the pilots were getting ready for another round of testing with the Evas. This would be Shinji’s first time in the Eva itself since the incident.

“Are you ok Shinji?” Rei asked as the pilots headed from the locker rooms to the Eva cages.

“Yeah I’m ok” Shinji replied

“You look a little nervous brother” She replied quietly

“You read me too easily” Shinji replied. Rei waited for him to go on “I guess I’m just nervous about what will happen in Unit-01” He added

“Do not worry it will be ok the Unit-00 incident was an isolated occurrence” Rei replied easing her brothers concerns

“How do you know that?” Shinji asked quietly

“It told me so, sister also hopes you are not mad at her” Rei replied

“I’m not” Shinji replied

“What are you two freaks whispering about?” Asuka demanded angrily

“Nothing” Shinji replied without looking at the red head

The pilots made it to the plug and got in, the plugs were inserted into the Evas and the sync test began.

Everyone on the bridge was anxious although Unit-00 was deemed safe Shinji was back in Unit-01 which was possibly more finicky than Unit-00 and this was his first testing since the incident. Misato looked over the bridge and could see the tension and nerves swirling around the room.

Standing up and getting every ones attention “Alright listen up everyone....” She paused getting the rooms undivided attention “If anyone is nervous about what is going to happen with Shinji and Unit-01 just remember that Unit-01 has never been picky about Shinji and he has done some incredible things to protect us all so just keep that in mind during the test”

She sat back down and watched some of the nerves ease around the room.

“Beginning test” Maya reported

“Initiating first stage contact” Huga reported

“Very good everything checks ok continue to the second stage connection” Ritsuko ordered

“Initiating second stage connections” Huga reported

Everyone watching their monitors for any possible problems but no one found anything. Pausing to check with everyone that they were happy and making sure she was happy with proceedings “Initiate third stage contact” Ritsuko ordered

“Third stage contact beginning” Huga reported

Everyone in the room seemed to hold their breath watching as the indicators turned green approaching the borderline and then crossing it without pausing.

“All units activated with no problems” Maya reported

“Alright take sync readings once they have stabilised” Ritsuko ordered

Inside Unit-01 Shinji opened his mind to the eva instead of just trying to control it like normal. He found himself in the same black space as Unit-00

‘Hello Shinji’ came a familiar voice

Shinji concentrated harder and then found himself looking into a mirror until he realised it wasn’t a mirror but he was looking at himself only the eyes were red

‘Hello’ Shinji replied

‘It is good to finally see you’ was the reply

‘How is this possible?’ Shinji asked

‘I am a clone of you, made by the Commander for the purpose of being inserted into the core of Unit-01’ was the reply

Shinji found it a little unnerving looking at his clone with those red eyes

‘Why is that necessary?’ Shinji asked

‘The Commander was worried about losing mother if the Eva was destroyed in an angel fight, considering the amount of damage that was being done to Unit-01 I’m not surprised’

‘You mean mother was in here?’ Shinji asked

‘Yes, didn’t you notice a change in Eva?’ Unit-01 asked

Shinji thought for a moment before the answer hit him ‘Yes at the time of the sniper rifle test’ Shinji replied

‘Very good, now that you know all this what will you do?’ Unit-01 replied

Thinking for a moment Shinji wasn’t sure how to reply

‘Shinji you already know the answer look within’ Unit-01 directed

‘If the commander has a plan it can’t be good but now that I know all this can we work better together?’ Shinji asked

‘Yes’ Unit-01 replied

‘Is it possible to get you and our sister out of the core?’ Shinji asked

‘No once a soul is given to Eva it cannot be undone, the commanders plan is an exception though I don’t know what exactly the plan is’ Unit-01 replied

‘Alright I guess I’m on the right track then, you ready for the combat simulator after this?’ Shinji asked

‘Yes though this test is almost finished so I will let you go just remember I am always here’ Unit-01 replied before the blackness was replaced by Unit-01’s entry plug

“Look at this ma’am” Huga got Ritsuko and Misato’s attention

Both women rushing over to his station to take a look at his screen, showing Shinji more relaxed than ever before and a sync ratio of 250%

“Whoa what does that mean?” Misato asked

“Shinji must be improving, I don’t know how but the Unit-00 experience must have helped” Ritsuko explained

“So now what?” Misato asked

“Nothing there are safety measures in place to make sure Shinji’s ratio won’t exceed 300% he will always be safe in the eva” Ritsuko replied

“Alright well if your happy get them in the combat simulator” Misato ordered

“Ok....” Thinking for a moment Ritsuko continued “Let’s continue get them into the combat simulators” Ritsuko ordered

The simulators showed the problems that had been building within the team namely the division between Asuka and Shinji and Rei. Several simulations were compromised by Asuka not working with Shinji and Rei or Shinji becoming annoyed at Asuka and trying to complete missions on his own, both of which ended badly.

Misato had the pilots in the debriefing rooms, the look on her face indicating she was far from impressed with the performance of her pilots.

“Just what the hell was that?” Misato asked

“Don’t look at me that was all the stupid Baka’s fault” Asuka retorted

“Don’t give me that line of bull” Misato replied quickly before an argument could escalate “You three need to find a way to work together and you need to do it fast before someone ends up dead for real not just in a simulator” She went on her gaze indicating that this was more serious than they could have imagined

“Yes ma’am” Shinji and Rei replied together. They knew their performance was sub-par.

“Fine” Asuka grumbled

“You can have tomorrow off then it’s back here for a sync test in the eva and more work in the simulators” Misato said looking over each pilot

“Alright dismissed go get cleaned up” Misato ordered as the three pilots turned and left

“Rei I need to see you after your shower” Misato said as the pilots were heading out the door

“Yes ma’am” she replied quietly then continued on her way

“So how did that go Misato?” Ritsuko asked as her friend came out of the briefing room last

“Could have been better” Misato replied massaging her temples with her forehead.

Rei showered quickly and found Misato in her office

“You wanted to see me?” she asked quietly

“Yes take a seat” Misato replied motioning to one of the chairs in front of her small desk.

Rei could see part of the surface of Misato’s desk and could easily see the Major on the other side, the level of paperwork was at a minimum showing that there had been some time since a battle on the surface.

“Things are getting worse between the three of you” Misato pointed out to which Rei didn’t reply but just continued to listen “I need to get Shinji and Asuka apart more than what they are” Misato added

“You want one of them to move out?” Rei clarified

“Yes but it can’t be Asuka I don’t trust her on her own” Misato replied

“But Shinji loves living with you, I know he has come to think of you as a mother” Rei replied defending why it’s not fair to just kick her brother out either.

The look on Misato’s face showed that this was a surprise “He said that?” She asked

“No but I can tell... He is my brother” Rei replied

“Still it doesn’t change the fact that Shinji is the better candidate to move out, which is why I’m asking you, how would you feel if Shinji moved in with you?” Misato asked

Rei was surprised by this question “Have you spoken to Shinji about this?” she asked

“No I thought it was best to ask you first” Misato replied

“I would like that so long as Shinji is ok with it” Rei replied

“Alright I’ll ask him tonight” Misato replied “Thank you for your time Rei”

“I’m home” Misato announced as she made it through the front door.

She went into the kitchen and found Shinji cooking.

“Hey Shinji.... Do you know where Asuka is?” Misato asked

“Hey Misato Asuka is in her room sulking that dinner is taking too long” Shinji replied flatly

“There is something I need to talk to you about” Misato began

“What is it Misato?” Shinji asked

“You know things aren’t working between you and Asuka right” Misato stated

“Yeah that’s obvious” Shinji replied

“I’ve decided to separate you too it’s for the best” Misato replied

“Ok Misato so which one of us has to move out?” Shinji asked getting to the point

Misato let out a sigh “It’s you Shinji I’ll still be your guardian it’s just that I don’t think Asuka will be ok on her own” she tried to explain

“It’s ok Misato so long as you’re still my guardian and it’s for the best I trust your judgment” Shinji replied

“Thanks Shinji” Misato replied

“So do you have anywhere lined up yet?” Shinji asked

“I spoke to Rei she is happy for you to move in with her” Misato replied

Shinji brightened up at this, living with Rei would be nice he would get to spend more time with his sister and not have to worry about Asuka either.

“Alright when do I have to move?” He asked

“I’ll pack now and can move whenever you want” Shinji replied

“Ok I’ll organise the removalists for when you are at school tomorrow” Misato replied with a sad expression spreading across her face.

“Don’t worry Misato you’re still my guardian” Shinji replied reassuring his guardian “That’s all that matters”

Shinji met Rei at school “Hey Rei” He said getting his sisters attention

“Good morning Shinji” She replied “How are you?”

“I’m ok. You?” He asked

“I’m well. Did Major Katsuragi speak to you last night?” Rei asked to which Shinji nodded

“So what did you decide?” Rei asked a little nervous

“I’m moving today is that ok?” Shinji asked

“Yes Misato already explained everything I’m looking forward to it” Rei replied

“Great” Shinji replied

The school day proceeded normal for the most part. Hikari was still hard on Shinji about his grades though only a couple of tutoring sessions meant there was not much time to work on his studies. Asuka was still popular and somehow Toji and Kensuke were still making money off photos after all this time.

Shinji and Rei were walking home before heading to Nerv for more tests.

“We only have 5 minutes at home before we have to leave for Nerv?” Rei reminded Shinji

“It’s ok I just want to throw all my stuff in my room and put my uniform on I’ll sort the rest out later” Shinji replied

“Alright” Rei replied with a smile

Ever since Misato proposed the idea she was secretly hoping Shinji would be coming to live with her. Being able to spend more time with her brother and having company would make the apartment less lonely and maybe this would work better than Shinji’s current living arrangements.

Opening the front door and walking in Rei ushered Shinji in “Welcome home brother” She said

“I’m home sister” Shinji replied as he stepped in and shut the cold out.

“Look at these marks” Maya said to Ritsuko and Misato as the sync test neared its end.

“There is hardly any distortion in Shinji’s level I’ve never seen it so consistent ever” Ritsuko commented “What did you do Misato?”

“Why did I do something?” Misato asked

“Look at him” Ritsuko continued pulling the video feed from Unit-01’s entry plug.

She was right the Third Child have never look so relaxed in his life there was even the smallest hint of a smile tugging at his lips as he synced with Unit-01

“I ah had Shinji move out.... It wasn’t working with him and Asuka under the same roof” Misato replied

“Where is he living now?” Ritsuko asked

“Rei’s place” Misato replied

This was the last thing Ritsuko expected but years of being taught by the master of self control allowed her to keep her facial features in check ‘I wonder how Gendo will react to this’ She thought

“Good idea Misato” Ritsuko replied “Well it looks like Shinji’s 250% wasn’t a one off let’s finish it there and get them into the simulator” Ritsuko added

‘ALERT’ ‘ALERT’ ‘ALERT’ ‘ALERT’ ‘ALERT’ ‘ALERT’ ‘ALERT’ ‘ALERT’ ‘ALERT’ ‘ALERT’

Alarms and red indicators flashed across the screen

“What’s going on where is the report from the Fuji observation centre?” Misato asked trying to get a handle on the situation

“It never detected it the angel just appeared right on top of us” Shigeru replied

“Everyone battle stations, launch all three evas to the surface and evacuate everyone to the geo-front” Misato ordered “I can’t believe Commander Ikari isn’t here again” She muttered cursing her luck.

“There is a problem with the launch system power we can only launch one eva at a time” Maya replied

“Damn it....... Launch Unit-01 first on route 5, then Unit-00 on route 10 and finally Unit-02 on route 2 give me a link to Unit-01” Misato replied coming up with a plan fast.

“Shinji listen up your launching first you will come out next to the angel, observe it and stay hidden we need target data, also the evacuation is still going on so watch out for civilians” Misato informed her pilot.

“This isn’t going to be like the fifth?” Shinji asked

Misato cringed at the memory “Definitely not trust me” Misato replied

“Alright lets go” Shinji replied closing the com window

“Evangelion Uni-01 Launch” Misato ordered never getting bored of that part as Unit-01 was sent rocketing to the surface pinning Shinji in the seat the whole way.

Unit-01 hit the surface with a crack creating a massive noise that scared a lot of people who were trying to evacuate. Shinji drew his pistol and pulled the slide back chambering the round. Peaking around a building he got his first look at the angel a harmless looking sphere with a weird black and white pattern across it. Taking stock of his surroundings it seemed movement was going to be impossible with civilians everywhere.

“Oh My Good Look there is Shinji” Kensuke exclaimed to Toji and Hikari

The other two teens getting a bad feeling as Kensuke pulled out his video camera. Looking through the viewfinder capturing more valuable footage by the second the otaku was brought back to reality by a tugging on his collar

“Didn’t you learn anything last time come on man” Toji yelled as he started dragging his friend away

‘Just be careful Shinji’ Hikari thought

The sphere continued its slow advance as Rei hit the surface and grabbed a positron sniper rifle; the precision weapon was becoming her favourite.

Kensuke continued to film as Unit-01 did it’s best to pick its way through the hoards of civilians that were trying to make their way to the geo-front shelters in a panic. Without paying attention Kensuke walked out onto a road to get a better angle on the purple war machine when a crash and the screeching of metal on road caught his attention as a bus full of people had rolled onto its side and was heading straight for Kensuke and Hikari.

Frozen in terror the two teens could do nothing but stand there and watch as the bus zeroed in on them until a massive purple hand flashed down in front of them creating a massive wall for the bus to hit, the crashing sound alerting them that the danger had been stopped. Looking up they found Unit-01 standing over them eyes glowing white hot as Shinji deftly picked the bus up and righted it placing it on the road away from the teens. The bus drove off leaving Shinji’s friends to stare in awe at what he really does for work.

Standing up and holding the pistol in a two handed grip he moved on leaving Kensuke to film his actions as they made their way towards the shelters

“Do you think he knew it was us?” Hikari asked

“I’d say so” Toji replied

“How do you know?” Hikari asked

“From when we were in there ages ago, the detail in the cockpit was incredible” Kensuke replied this time

“I guess we better thank him later then” Hikari replied absentmindedly

Toji saw the look on her face and knew he had to have a chat with his friend.

A second loud crack indicated Unit-02’s arrival. The production model eva carrying a progressive axe as the three Evas started stalking through the city as quietly as possible trying to collect target data.

Unit-01 raised the pistol at the angel levelling the sights right at the target but the angel just continued it journey.

“Shinji what are you doing?” Misato asked

“Don’t worry I’m not going to shoot but it seems like it doesn’t see us, there is no reaction what so ever when I shape to attack. It’s weird” Shinji replied

“Yes I don’t like this” Rei replied quietly

“Alright keep collecting information I’ve just sent everything from the magi to you back each other up out there” Misato ordered

“Are you serious Misato this thing doesn’t even have an A.T Field” Asuka snapped

“Yes I’m serious keep monitoring, Shinji take point get into positions but don’t do anything until we have had more time to analyse the angel” Misato replied

“Fine” Asuka grumbled

“Unit-00 will provide backup” Rei replied confirming her orders

“Unit-01 on point” Shinji replied confirming his orders

The three Evas continued their slow march through the city keeping pace with the angel collecting what little data they could on the sphere in the sky.

“Unit-00 I’ve reached a covering position” Rei reported

“Roger” Shinji replied keeping radio chat to a minimum

Shinji heard a noise above him and could see Unit-02 heading across skyscrapers towards the angel.

“Asuka what are you doing?” Shinji asked as he continued to monitor the angel moving in closer

“I’m going to take this thing down duh” Asuka replied

“With an axe? We don’t know its capabilities” Shinji replied

“Shinji is right Asuka and he is on point back him up” Misato ordered

“Asuka fall back to your position stick to the plan” Shinji ordered

Asuka didn’t listen “It’s just a big sphere with no A.T Field” Asuka replied

“This is mission leader to mission fuck up follow your orders before you get us all killed” Shinji retorted

Asuka wasn’t listening though she had waited long enough to see the capabilities of this angel. “Unit-02 charge!!!” She cried out launching Unit-02 from the last skyscraper over Unit-01’s head towards the sphere. Her aim was good and with a swing of her axe Unit-02 passed through air.

“It’s gone” Maya replied

“A.T Field detected pattern blue” Makoto reported “Its right below Unit-01” He added getting a location

“Shinji look out” Misato warned but it was too late.

“A shadow?” Shinji got out before the whole street went black and everything started sinking in it.

Shinji fired three rounds into the shadow and this made no difference. Unit-01 drew its prog knife and jammed it into the side of the security building he was next too. Using all his strength he dragged himself from shin deep in the shadow to clawing his way up the building to stand on top. Asuka’s attack and her axe swing had taken her through to the building behind the angel. With the progressive axe buried half way up the building climbing up to the roof was easy for her.

“Asuka Shinji fall back you need to get outside the shadow then we can regroup and attack again” Misato ordered.

“You don’t need to tell me that twice” Asuka replied as she quickly and deftly hoped her way across the buildings to safety

Shinji started to move across the buildings like Asuka had but the angel picked up on this shifting its location to put Shinji in the middle and then increasing its strength.

“A.T Field strength has increased it’s near the top of the scale” Aboa reported

“What’s going on?” Misato asked “Shinji hurry you have to get out of there” Misato called out not liking the looks of this.

Shinji hustled in Unit-01 but buildings started dropping at an alarming rate. Shinji dove for his next point realising he was going to come up short he drew his progressive knife aiming for the ledge near the roof to hold him up. The blade couldn’t get the purchase required and the knife cute straight through the edge of the building with the momentum Unit-01 carried sending the purple war machine straight towards the shadows

Time moved in slow motion for Rei she was far enough away to not be caught by the shadow when it appeared then she could see everything. She looked on helplessly as her brother fired three rounds into the shadow then has the presence of mind to climb up the building he was next to. She watched him trying to make an escape like Asuka had only to see the angel reposition to make it harder but she held hope, Shinji was capable of getting out of tight situations like this until the angel started eating up the city at a drastic rate. The fact that Shinji got anywhere near the last building is an indication of his incredible skill but she watched helplessly as her brother fell into the abyss of the twelfth angel.

Then the sphere appeared in the sky again “Rei hit that sphere” Misato ordered

Rei didn’t even respond. Unit-00 raised the positron sniper rifle and fired three rounds with a good lock from the targeting computer each round passing through where the angel was when it disappeared, exploding into the buildings that were behind the angel

“Asuka Rei fall back to city coordinates 24 degrees 39 seconds 28 degrees 0” Misato ordered

“But Shinji and Unit-01...” Rei replied before she was cut off

“That’s all the way back in the first quadrant Misato” Asuka pointed out

“I know withdraw now that is an order” Misato replied effectively abandoning Shinji for now.

Shinji concentrated on his sync with Unit-01 as soon as he realised he had missed the building, he found it easy to communicate with the Eva while seeing the optics from the Eva as well instead of the black abyss.

‘What the hell is this angel?’ Shinji asked

‘It is like nothing we have seen before I need time to analyse, all I can tell is that the A.T Field is inverted we could be falling into another dimension’ Unit-01 replied as everything outside the eva turned to black indicating the they were in the shadow now.

‘There has got to be a way out, how are we going to go about this?’ Shinji asked a little short on ideas now

‘Shut down all power start your chronometer in the plug suit and wait two hours while I work on inverting the A.T Field and finding a way out’ Unit-01 replied

Shinji didn’t reply he immediately followed his instructions and knew that the next two hours were going to be some long ones for him.

Ritsuko stood in front of her terminal continuing to analyse the newest angel.

“It’s like nothing else we have seen” she muttered to herself.

“Major Katsuragi must feel terrible” Maya commented

“They reeled Shinji’s umbilical cable in but it was empty” Ritsuko commented

“Then without power the eva can only last sixteen hours in life support mode” Maya replied

“Assuming that Shinji doesn’t waste time groping around in the dark and stays in the most minimal life support mode that’s correct” Ritsuko replied impressed with her protégée.

Ritsuko stood in front of a whiteboard with various equations and diagrams written on it. She had already been going for half an hour and Misato had not understood anything her college friend had said; much less make any sense of what was written on the board.

“The shadow has a diameter of 650 metres with a depth of 3 nano metres. Inside that circle is an inverted A.T Field which houses an area that can only be defined abstract mathematics. It’s a Dirac Sea it could be a gate way to another universe” Now she was into target information and none of it was showing Misato how they could get Unit-01 back and kill the angel.

“What about the sphere in the sky?” A voice was heard it sounded like Aboa

“The sphere disappears when the angel’s body opens which means that this is the shadow projected by the angel” Ritsuko replied

Ritsuko finished her lecture with more technical information that no one understood but the bottom line was the situation was hopeless and things did not look good for Shinji.

“I can’t believe that idiot got himself stuck in there” Asuka commented to no one in particular

“I mean that shows him for trying to match me in terms of piloting skill, just because he has such a high sync ratio” The red head continued only to be brought up short by two red eyes staring death at her

The emotion was plainly written on Rei’s face and it was unnerving for anyone who saw it.

“What are my comments about Shinji pissing you off wondergirl?” Asuka demanded

“I wonder is that what you really believe.” Rei asked

“I don’t have to explain myself to you or anyone else” Asuka spat back

“Actually you do since you’re the one who went off mission attacking the angel when you should have been covering Shinji” Rei replied the anger written across her face becoming more obvious.

“What a bunch of crap if that idiot had just hurried up and killed the angel then he wouldn’t be in the mess he is in now” Asuka exclaimed with an air of superiority.

‘CRACK’

Rei’s hand had moved so fast she was walking away from the stunned red head before Asuka realised what had happened. Asuka raced around in front of the person she hated the most that doll and grabbed her by the scruff of her plug suit.

“If you ever do something like that again I’ll kill you” She snarled

“If you don’t stop you actions against Shinji and I, I am certain Shinji will kill you first” Rei replied.

It wasn’t the emotions on the blue haired pilot’s face that made Asuka shudder but the certainty in her voice so sure that Shinji was even going to make it back let alone be in one piece.

“And what makes you so sure that Shinji will even be back?” Asuka asked enjoying this

“He will be back I know it” Rei replied reassuring herself and staying positive

“He’s gone get use to it your brother is an idiot” Asuka replied and walked away with an air of superiority around her.

Misato watched the exchange but said nothing. To discipline Asuka would mean punishing Rei for the slap as well and Misato just didn’t feel like that not when she had to go and talk to Ritsuko about her plan for the rescue of Unit-01 and Shinji.

Looking at the inside of an entry plug with no power sure was boring. Shinji sat there and thought it never could be so quiet. Usually the sounds of battle or chatter of communications would keep him company, or the visuals from the Eva’s optics would give him something to look at, but now there were just the walls and the boredom. He had no idea where he was, after starting to sink into the angel and climbing up the building Shinji knew this time escape was the best option. He had moved as quickly as he could but the angel had cut off his only avenue and once he felt his knife slice through the edge of the building instead of sticking in it he had braced himself for the worst. He had at least taken comfort in the fact that his link with the Eva had given him some hope.

That was all he had now though hope, he really hoped he would get to see his sister and friends again. Toji and Kensuke he really wished he could spend more time with them. Hikari she was so hard on him but there was something drawing him to her and her little sister Nozomi was so cute.

Checking the chronometer on his wrist he saw three hours had passed, more than enough time for the Eva to do what he needed to do. Shinji fired up power in the entry plug, the Eva’s systems quickly came online and at least now he had the gauges to look at instead of the entry plug walls.

Concentrating on his sync with the Eva he still found it weird talking to himself essentially.

‘You were gone three hours is everything alright?’ Unit-01 asked

‘I’m fine I was just giving you extra time is all I figured however we are going to get out of here we would only have one shot’ Shinji explained

‘Your right we only have one shot but we have enough power to do it. The field will be inverted when you project it then you need to turn it back in on itself, that will disrupt the dimension and it will just be a matter of punching our way out’ Unit-01 replied

‘Ok good plan how do I turn an A.T Field back in on itself and how do you know all this?’ Shinji asked

‘You have to concentrate and put everything into it I know it will work from analysing the angel’ Unit-01 replied again ‘Hurry Shinji we have enough power but time will run out unless you go now’ Unit-01 added

‘Ok here we go’ Shinji replied

He started concentrating on the A.T Field trying to project it out at first.

“The plan is to drop all 992 existing N2 mines into the shadow while expanding the A.T Fields of the two remaining Eva’s. If we can concentrate enough explosive power in that instant we should be able to disrupt the dimension that makes up the angel and destroy it” Ritsuko explained to Misato

“But Unit-01 and Shinji.... There’s no way...... What in the hell kind of rescue operation is this?” Misato stuttered out

“We can’t allow the angels to capture an Eva in this case the pilots life is irrelevant even if the Eva has to sacrificed as a total loss’ Ritsuko replied coldly

‘CRACK’ Misato’s hand moved so fast the Major didn’t even consider the repercussions of her actions. The slap was so violent it knocked Ritsuko’s glasses from her face and made her stagger back a few steps

“Shinji is your responsibility Misato you seem to have forgotten that” Ritsuko replied with venom

“What’s so special about Unit-01? Why do you and the Commander want it back so badly?” Misato demanded

“You’ve been given all the information Major!” Ritsuko responded in kind

“That’s bull” Misato replied grabbing Ritsuko by the scruff of the neck.

The ground started shaking and cracking inside the shadow. The loud noises instantly making the two women forget their argument

“Give me a status report” Misato demanded into her phone

“All the gauges are going off the scale I’ve detected a blue white pattern inside the angel and a powerful A.T Field” Aboa replied

“What are you talking about we haven’t done anything” Misato replied

“It’s not us Major”

“Could it be Shinji?” Misato asked

“Impossible he would be in life-support mode by now power would be at zero” Ritsuko replied as both women ran to the railing next to where Unit-00 and -02 were standing to get a better look at the angel. Rei came racing out at the sound to have a look as well.

The sphere started to stretch and warp the pattern showing the strain the angel was under as something went on inside its dimension. Then without warning a blue and white A.T Field tore free from the sphere it turned back in on itself and dove straight back into the sphere and out the other side causing it to shatter into millions of fine pieces and fall to the ground that was still convulsing and cracking. The A.T Field turned on its axis and dove into the angel disappearing. More cracking could be heard then there was complete silence. The silence stretched on for ten seconds but to everyone there it felt like an eternity.

Suddenly something punched up through the angel a red fist followed by a fore arm. Then another red fist and fore arm came out from the angel. The two hands planted themselves on the ground and strained then a head exploded from the angel’s depths and a body followed out easily after soaked in blood. That unmistakable visage of the horned destroyer raised its fist in triumph and let out an ear splitting roar of victory.

“Unit-01?” Misato asked not believing her eyes.

“It’s impossible” Ritsuko murmured

“Welcome back brother” Rei spoke quietly to herself as she allowed a small smile to cross her face.

Unit-01 moved into position next to Unit-00 completely covered in angel blood that was still dripping from its limbs as they hung loosely at its sides it powered down and the entry plug ejected. Rei ran over to the Eva as Shinji hopped onto the temporary platform that was now between Unit-00 and -01

“Welcome back brother” She greeted Shinji with a hug

“Hello sister it is good to be back” He replied returning the hug with as much love as his sister had put into it.

To be continued:

A/N: I know I’ve changed the order of events just a little here by having the next angel before Misato goes to her friend’s wedding but I didn’t want to give you two chapters with no angel fight and I like this order better. I hope you’re still enjoying this story and thanks to everyone who is following and reviewed.