FicWad

Disclaimer: See Chapter 1
Chapter 18:
The helicopter’s turbines whined as the small military chopper climbed to the top of the Tokyo-3 skyline. Picking its way through the largest buildings they headed north towards the city’s outskirts.

“Here’s the plan we a flying in low so we aren’t detected by radar and we will have a small hike to the compound where the sub-commander is being held. I’m not going to sugar coat it Shinji Seele have a small army and this is going to be harder than anything we have ever done. If you don’t want to do it you don’t have to” Ryoji laid out the mission for Shinji and its dangers.

“Partners for life Ryoji I’m in” Shinji replied this is the night that he was going to make a difference to his mother’s legacy

The partners shared a fist bump at that and got back to work.

“Alright we’ll have to double time it to the compound. If we hit the munitions bunker and power together we should have a good chance of getting the sub-commander and escaping” Ryoji added

“If these guys have radar what else can we expect?” Shinji asked

“Anti personnel countermeasures, automatic robot drones and UAV’s I don’t know how many or where but they are out there” Ryoji replied again

“What if we need more support?” Shinji asked

“I have an overhead satellite piped into my PDA, littlebird1 here will provide air support once we are out we may be able to get an air strike if we are lucky

“Which way is in and out?” Shinji asked as Ryoji showed him an aerial view on his PDA

“We will rig the power sub-station and munitions on the west side with C4 and then advance from the east using the explosion on the west as a diversion. As for escape we will find the best route when it’s time and littlebird1 will come get us” Ryoji replied

The chopper went into a dive flying only 10 metres above street level. Office buildings and houses flew by at incredible speed the sound all the more exhilarating since the small chopper has no doors on the cabin.

“We are two minutes out” The co-pilots voice came through the head seats

The little red light lit up the cabin as the chopper hurtled through the thinning city outskirts. Ryoji threw a pack and an M4 at Shinji. “This is heavier than normal what’s in it?”

“Ammo, grenades, C4, a field head set and a medical kit” Ryoji replied

Shinji slung the bag onto his back “Travelling light then” he replied

The light went green as the chopper hovered a meter above the ground the partners bailing out into an open field as they headed into the cover of a nearby forest. The chopper climbed and banked away from their position

“Call in your progress to raven and advice positions for air support as needed” the co-pilot added as the chopper left them to their own devices for the time being

Shinji followed Ryoji through the forest silently until they came to its edge.

“See the large wooden lodge that’s the munitions bunker, don’t be fooled those walls are concrete” Ryoji informed his partner “Cover me from that ridge just kill everyone that isn’t me or Fuyutsuki we don’t need any intel tonight”

Shinji just nodded

“Don’t forget to call out your positions we will meet up at the base of the ridge on the east side of the compound. I’ll wait here for your go” Ryoji added

“No worries” Shinji replied

“Get going if we do this right we will have the sub-commander home before sunrise”

Shinji turned and left the only sound he made after a couple of footsteps were brushing past a tree branch and then he was gone

“He is going to be unstoppable with all this cover” Ryoji whispered to himself as he stayed hidden
________________________________________

A knock at her door woke her. Misato stumbled out of bed grabbing her heckler and kosh and headed to the front door, opening it she found 2 of section-2’s brightest standing there in suits and glasses in the middle of the night.

“What is it?” She asked knowing something must be wrong to be woken like this

“The Sub-Commander has been taken are you ok?” The taller agent spoke

“My god when?” Misato asked putting a hand over her mouth

“We are following protocol and can’t disclose any information about it are you alone?” The taller agent again

“Yes I’m alone, I’ve been here since my shift finished” Misato replied

The smaller agent held up a plaque ‘Are you under any duress?’ it read

“I’m fine come in if you want” Misato said opening the door

The two agents followed the major into her apartment “Do you have any suspects?” Misato asked just wanting to know what was going on

“We have teams following leads across the city but for now we must ask you to stay here for your own safety” The tall agent replied

“Sure, you guys want a coffee?” Misato asked

“Yes thank you ma’am” The tall agent replied while the short one nodded in reply

“You don’t talk much do you?” Misato asked

The short agent shook his head this time while Misato went about making three cups of coffee
________________________________________

Ryoji could just hear a faint rustling in the bushes “One hostile look out down, I’ve got his rifle and radio” Shinji reported

“Look out for more there will be more than one” Ryoji replied

“On it” Shinji replied

The young man stayed low and made his way further up the ridge line after sheathing his knife. The sniper was easy to kill he never checked his surroundings just kept sweeping his gun across the open area around the compound while looking down the scope. It had been something Kozo and Ryoji has always drilled into him and he just took advantage of why.
Getting to the top of the ridge Shinji could see two more guards while he kept listening into the radio “Marks Allen... Report in” The radio came to life

“This is Marks... All clear here”

“This is Allen... All clear here too”

“Simmons report in”

“Say again Simmons report in”

Shinji jammed his knife into the side of the radio and pushed the button “This is Simmons” He said twisting the knife to induce static into the transmission “My radio is playing up but everything is ok”

“Repeat your last Simmons”

“My radio is playing up but everything is clear here” Shinji fudged

“You want to come back to base for a new one?”

“Negative I can hear you guys ok I’ll come back once we are done here” Shinji replied constantly twisting the knife making the transmission break up.

“Alright keep at it Simmons this is Base out”

Shinji breathed a sigh of relief glad that they still had the element of surprise on his side

Shinji made his way silently through the growth coming out on top of the ridge line with a good view point of everything that was going on around him. He figured three lookouts was a little light when you are expecting company so he kept searching for another target. There were some thinning clouds in the sky and a full moon so he would have to be careful since it was a good seeing night.

“This is sparrow one look out down two in sight I’m checking for more” Shinji reported in

“Raven copies, Eagle be ready to move in when Sparrow gives the clear” The general was over seeing this mission as well.

“Eagle copies” Ryoji replied

Shinji kept looking and then he found it the little red reflection of a scope in the moon light there was a silent lookout near Ryoji’s position.

“Eagle you have a tango at your two o’clock” Shinji advised his partner ‘I wonder how he got Eagle’ Shinji thought briefly and then concentrated on the hidden sniper

“Sparrow I can’t get a shot he is looking right at me” Ryoji replied realising that any more movement would alert the bad guys

A little pop was heard then the bullet went rocketing through the scope and the snipers head as the body went limp and fell in a heap. Two more pops were heard “This is sparrow all targets down checking for more hidden tangos” Shinji’s voice came over com

“This is raven we only have two heat signatures around the compound transponders match yours awaiting your command sparrow” The general updated his men

Shinji kept checking not wanting to send his partner into a trap then something caught his attention in his peripherals drawing his pistol and turning away from his rifle he saw two men moving up towards the top of the ridge trying to flank him. He quickly shot them both with his pistol and checked the rest of his surrounds.

“This is sparrow two tangos tried to ambush me they are down” Shinji reported “Checking for more tangos”

Shinji kept looking but found nothing “Eagle your clear” He added

Ryoji broke from cover and grabbed the rifle mag from the dead sniper ‘He gets better every time’ Ryoji though as he started picking the lock on the munitions bunker. Picking the lock he opened the double doors and headed down the staircase that greeted him.

“This is eagle I’m in, Sparrow can you get me a rifle off a tango?” Ryoji asked his partner

“Sparrow copies” Shinji replied and headed to the closest tango he could see picking up a dragunov sniper rifle he knew Ryoji would be happy with. Getting into position on the east side Shinji settled for a position on the east side where he could cover Ryoji’s exit from the munitions bunker. He waited checking his surroundings more than the bunker exit figuring Ryoji would report his position when he could.

Just as the waiting seemed to stretch out to concerning lengths Ryoji appeared “This is Eagle all explosives planted I’m exiting now” Ryoji reported

Shinji continued checking the surrounding area but found nothing around but still didn’t give up his position of cover either. Ryoji checked the perimeter of the shed housing the power generator. Seeing no one in side he punched his elbow through a window and climbed inside.
Once he was inside it was easy he just headed towards the loud humming sound. Ryoji figured three blocks of C4 would be enough to damage the substation beyond repair. Two at the mounts and one next to the output couplers, he quickly made his way out the same window he went into

“This is Eagle substation finished moving to rendezvous point on the east side” Ryoji replied

“Raven copies Sparrow are you in position” General Hamada kept track of his soldier’s movements

“Sparrow copies I’m in position” Shinji replied.

The young man followed his partner’s movements keeping an eye on his surroundings all the time. Ryoji made it easy and the two operatives headed to the eastern wall of the complex. Ryoji pulled the detonator from his pocket and held it up

“Ready?”

Shinji nodded and placed a breaching charge on the door and handed the rifle he stole to Ryoji who slung the rifle across his back.

“3... 2... 1” Ryoji counted down

Both men hit their detonators. The C4 completely overshadowing the breaching charges as the whole complex went dark. Two massive fireballs erupted as the power substation was levelled and a column of fire erupted out the doors of the munitions dump the massive explosion increased by the entire ordinance having nowhere to go but up. A second column of fire erupted out of the dirt as some munitions exploded with such violence the underground bunker couldn’t contain them. The light quickly dissipated but the two operatives were well into the complex taking full advantage of their surprise and the well placed breaching charge.
________________________________________

5 minutes earlier

Sub-Commander Fuyutsuki sat bound to the cold metal chair. The interrogation had been going for well over a few hours now. Things had been mostly routine so far a grilling on the history of Gehirn and Nerv. The committee were looking for anything they had overseen. It was mostly Chairman Keel asking the questions his subordinates falling into step as would be expected.

Fuyutsuki figured there was only two guys who were going to be able to get him out of this jam and there was no way he was going to sell them out when the questions turned nasty which was going to be soon since he was near the end of his recount.

“Thank you for your help so far Sub-Commander your cooperation will be noted. There is just one thing left to figure out” The chairman spoke his voice distorted eyes unreadable behind that visor he wore, a permanent scowl etched onto his face.

“What’s that Chairman Keel” Fuyutsuki replied the tone in his voice showing he was beyond caring at this point

“Watch your tone sub-commander unless you can give us what we want you will become expendable” Keel replied

“I want to know what you know about the break in at Shannon Bio-8” Keel demanded

“I don’t know anything about it” Fuyutsuki replied

“You’re elevated heart rate says otherwise, tell us what you know and we will let you live” Keel replied his voice always sounded the same but you could just tell that he was enjoying this

A loud explosion sounded from above their position and all the holograms apart from Keel’s faded out. Keel’s hologram looked around until a hand came into the picture handing him a note. The head dipped down reading it carefully.

“This is unexpected....” The old man got out “Enjoy the rescue Fuyutsuki if you can make it out” Keel challenged

The sub-commander said nothing he just sat there watching as a smile spread across his face until Keel’s image vanished

‘I hope you two don’t get yourselves killed doing this’ Fuyutsuki thought
________________________________________

Once the breaching charge blew they raced through the door way. Shinji packed the charge real tight causing the door to fly off its hinges turning it into a projectile as it hit a hostile in the head knocking him unconscious.

Shinji was first in and went left killing two guards Ryoji followed and killed two guards on the right before throwing a grenade down the corridor. The phosphorus charge igniting everything in the corridor and setting off a couple of proximity mines in the wall. The resulting explosion causing the ceiling to collapse in a little as jip rock and debris fell onto the floor.

A guard rushed out and Shinji dropped him with a shot to the head.

“Nice entrance?” He asked his partner

“Best I’ve seen” Ryoji replied “Let’s get moving the interrogation room is on the lowest level”

“How do you know the layout so well” Shinji asked

“I’ve been here before” Ryoji replied

“When?” Shinji asked

“When Seele thought they were recruiting me” The spy replied “But my allegiances are always to Japan and her people” The spy added with a grin

The two made it to a vertical shaft that would get them to within one floor of the interrogation room.

“For Japan Ryoji?” Shinji asked

“For Japan Shinji” Ryoji confirmed as the two partners bumped fists and descended the ladder down the shaft.

Coming to the bottom the two operatives dropped onto the floor and stalked their way through the open office. Two flash lights popped up and they were both dropped by Shinji and Ryoji firing half magazines through the desks. The rest of the squad fired causing the two to drop to the floor and take cover. Shinji fired a grenade round into the ceiling above the tangos position the explosion knocking them off their feet. Ryoji threw a grenade into their position the explosion killing all the hostiles.

Shinji rose up and cut down the two hostiles that we covering their flank trying to finish him and his partner off. He dropped the empty magazine onto the floor and loaded another one. Ryoji covered Shinji’s six killing three more guards with his SCAR operating in low light and total darkness was giving them a big advantage plus the heat source scope on Ryoji’s SCAR made life easy

“Where now?” Shinji asked

“The stair well is straight ahead, be careful they are coming from everywhere” Ryoji replied

Checking his corners and deciding it was clear Shinji raced to the stairwell kicking the door open he shot the two guards coming up the stair well and then fired a grenade round into the bottom of the stair well blowing the door up and rupturing the fire system in the process. Sprinklers all over the complex bursting open as the two operatives made their way down to the bottom level.

“Nice work, the more distractions we can get the better” Ryoji informed his partner

They entered the lowest floor as a series of explosions in the middle of the office room went up, the water playing havoc with the proximity mines that were laid as countermeasures.

“Where are we going now?” Shinji asked

“I don’t know we just have to do a grid by grid search until we find the interrogation room” Ryoji replied

The large open office floor had a series of sealed rooms around the perimeter. Shinji checked his surrounds looking for any traps or hostiles and carefully made his way to the first door systematically checking all the rooms was going to be the best plan.

Kicking the door in revealed nothing, moving silently to the next door he could see the light on. Ryoji nodded and moved to a position of cover. Shinji pulled the trigger on the M4 emptying the magazine into the door and surrounding wall, he moved straight away as he loaded a fresh magazine and kicked the door in as it fell off its hinges laying flat on the floor.

The room was large with a mirror on the back that had been peppered by bullets; the partners moved to where they could slide the mirrored doors back and pulled them open a body in a blue business suit fell out hitting the ground hard. Turning it over showed several bullet holes the man was clearly dead.

“Nice work Shinji” Ryoji commented “This is Smith the American representative to Seele the government has been looking for him for a long time. He is a very dangerous man”

Shinji just shrugged not knowing what to say to the praise.

“Come-on let’s keep going” Ryoji instructed as the moved to the next door

Shinji kicked the next door in and found an empty room. The tension was getting to him plus he was cold and wet from the sprinkler system that was still going but the pair pressed on.

Ryoji kicked the next door in and found two hostiles taking cover behind an upturned lounge. Shinji and Ryoji dove out of the door way hitting the floor taking cover behind the walls. The hostiles kept firing high blowing holes in the walls but hitting nothing but air. Shinji lobed a grenade into the room, it bounced off the back of the lounge going over the hostiles and resting behind them. They were shredded by the explosion and frags from the grenade. He then moved to the door and fired a grenade round into their position making sure of the kill.

The two moved to the next door Shinji kicked it in but the door was wired as an explosion blew the door out into Shinji sending him flying across to the middle of the room the door finishing on top of him.

“Sparrow?” Ryoji called out

“I’m fine” Shinji replied pushing the door off of himself

Shinji moved to his position by the door frame but as he was about to move into the room automatic gun fire peppered the doorway and surrounding walls. Again the two took cover. Ryoji used a mirror to see into the room and it showed hostiles taking cover behind an overturned table firing at them.

“Lay down cover fire and I’ll move in to take those guys out” Ryoji ordered

Shinji nodded and waited for Ryoji’s signal. Once he got it he broke from cover and peppered the table and surrounding areas. Ryoji dashed inside and slid behind a lounge unseen as Shinji ran the mag empty in his M4, switching to the grenade launcher he fired a round to the right of the table the explosion keeping the hostiles pinned down. He then ducked back out of the room and crouched down as he loaded another magazine and grenade round into the M4. The hostiles stood up and returned fire hitting the door frame and wall but nothing else. Ryoji rose up from his position and cut the two hostiles down as SCAR fire was the only sound left. Ryoji checked the bodies and confirmed the two men dead with no other surprises present

“Clear” he called out and Shinji came into the room

“One to go?” Shinji prompted

“Yeah, let’s get to it” Ryoji replied

The spy strode over to the final door and kicked it in he pulled the trigger back on his SCAR before the door was even open and emptied the mag into the doorway. There was a long corridor after the door way a giveaway they were on the right track. The three guards at the end of the corridor had no chance as they were cut down by the assault rifle fire. The bullets ripped through the bodies staining the wall behind them as the bodies fell in a crumpled heap and finished bleeding out on the floor.

The temperature was a lot colder here than the rest of the complex, smoke was coming from the heat at the end of Ryoji’s muzzle

“Clear” The spy announced with a sigh of relief

The two partners made their way down to the end of the corridor. Shinji quickly checked the bodies for any nasty surprises and they then proceeded around the corner following the corridor. Switching their low light glasses for night vision goggles the two found four guards at what appeared to be the final door; they were poorly equipped and didn’t even see them at ten metres away. Ryoji held a closed fist up and Shinji stopped where he was. Further hand signals had Shinji in a crouch looking down the scope of his M4 ready to take out two guards while Ryoji had the other two from a standing position.

A silent count down and the two spies pulled the trigger killing all the guards. Shinji followed up with a grenade round igniting the C4 on one vest probably a suicide bomb in the event of something like that happening. The fireball blowing the door open and igniting the automatic extinguisher system as the two spies looked on.

“Nice work Sparrow we enter code 3 report in” Ryoji ordered

“Raven this is sparrow we are at the objective and entering code 3 do you copy?” Shinji tried to hail command

“Raven copies you are go for extraction when needed” came the reply as Shinji moved to his position
________________________________________

Kozo had been sitting in the dark and silence for what felt like a long time but he had no idea exactly how long it was. The room had gone dark since keel’s hologram lost power somehow but no one had come for him.

He felt a face next to his head and could smell a fragrance of some sort, a woman

“Stand up slowly professor” came the female’s voice, she sounded like she was enjoying herself or would be soon

Kozo did as instructed there was nothing he could do with his hands in cuffs and in the dark.

“And here I thought I was alone” Kozo spoke making sure his voice still worked more than anything

“Don’t worry sweetie it’s about to get crowded in here” she replied “Your friends will be here shortly I presume”

The sounds of gun fire could be heard as some pings hit the door. Fuyutsuki recognised the M4 and SCAR and knew what was going on. Then the door burst into flames and he heard a gasp from his female captor. ‘She has been caught off guard this is good’ the old professor thought

Kaji strode through the door and pulled his night vision off as a column of light illuminated Kozo and the woman, she looked attractive.

“Ryoji Kaji do please come in” the woman spoke with a purr

“Let him go” Kaji spoke

“Not so fast my deer Kaji we do have a lot to talk about” the woman replied raising a pistol to Fuyutsuki’s head “You wouldn’t want to skip out on this conversation especially with a pretty girl like me”

“What do you want?” Kaji asked getting straight to business

“No small talk no chit chat, very disappointing Kaji” the woman purred

“Who are you what do you want?” Kaji asked again a bit more forcefully

“Forgive me where are my manners I am Yelena Sitri and Seele want you to work for us, join us Kaji and you will get everything you want” Yelena purred “Defy us and we will take everything from you starting with the professor here followed by Misato and Asuka and then we will just keep going till there is nothing left for us to do but kill you”

“Sounds tempting but I’ll pass” Kaji replied with that carefree voice of his

“Don’t be so quick to blow us off Kaji Seele can offer you everything you have ever wanted, the truth, power and money beyond your wildest dreams, happiness. You can’t stand there and tell me you don’t want that” Yelena purred at the spy

“Of course I want that, but I’ll have it on my terms not Seele’s” Kaji replied

“Don’t be stupid Kaji think of Misato’s welfare and your own. We know all about you Kaji, the agent who completes his missions under the alias Eagle you and your little side kick sparrow you two have been very busy lately” Yelena purred again it was obvious she was enjoying this little game

Kaji was shocked but his balaclava and glasses hid his face well for his benefit. “What of him?” Kaji asked

“We would like to meet him, find out more about the man, perhaps make him the same offer I have for you, come work for us you both might like it” she replied with a grin.

“Tell me what you know about him and I’ll fill in the blanks” Kaji said fishing for what Seele knew about Shinji

“It’s not that easy Kaji you know that” Yelena replied

“It’s that simple if you want my help” Kaji replied easily

“We know all about what you two have been up to, sneaking into labs, Hidoshi Heavy Chemicals, we knew you two would come today for the professor, a noble but futile gesture” Yelena purred confidently

“Haha” Kaji smirked they knew nothing

“What’s so funny my dear Kaji?” Yelena asked

“You know nothing” Kaji replied with a grin

“On the contrary we know everything” Yelena replied her look of superiority faltering a little

“You know nothing not even who sparrow is or where he has been” Kaji replied Fuyutsuki was grinning now as well.

“We know enough to know we want a meeting” Yelena replied trying to keep control of the situation

“Allow me, you know nothing about him not even his name or where he has been, you should start with Shannon Bio-8” Kaji replied his grin almost splitting his face

“Shannon Bio-8? We have no record of your involvement in that” Yelena asked confused

“Not mine I was never there” Kaji replied with a grin and a nod

“Sparrow?” Yelena asked

“The one and only” Kaji replied
________________________________________

As Ryoji entered the room Shinji fell back to a defensive position 7 metres behind the door. He couldn’t see into the room but they couldn’t see out to him as Ryoji blocked the door way. Looking up he saw the data and power cables Ryoji had pointed out on a building schematic earlier. Jumping up and grabbing the conduit they were stored in hanging below the ceiling it was easy from there to pull himself up. Pushing a tile aside he was into the ceiling, from there he was able to climb up to the support beam and walk across the top of it.

He passed over the door frame and could hear muffled voices, a woman and a man talking, the man’s voice sounding like Ryoji, he kept her talking a while allowing Shinji to pin point the locations of the bodies in the room, crawling the last part along the beam as the ceiling space narrowed Shinji made it to the far wall, scaling the wall he was able to move to the corner of the room. Attaching a rappelling line to another support beam hanging over his head allowed the young operative to let go of the wall and hang in the space over the ceiling.
Quietly he pulled a tile up and silently entered into the corner of the room. Letting his feet feel solid ground he brought his M4 up and trained the scope on the woman’s head, she was holding Professor Fuyutsuki hostage but from his angle the shot would be simple once the order was given.

“Shannon Bio-8? We have no record of your involvement in that” the woman replied to Ryoji’s question confused

“Not mine I was never there” Kaji replied with a grin and a nod

“Sparrow?” the woman asked

“The one and only” Kaji replied

“But how?” she replied still confused

“It’s not important Yelena but this conversation tires me” Kaji replied with a smile “So you can meet Sparrow now”

“Fine where is the man?” Yelena asked impatiently

“Kill her” Ryoji replied with a nod

Shinji chambered a round in the M4 getting Yelena’s attention as she dropped the pistol away from Fuyutsuki completely taken by surprise she looked in his direction as Shinji buried a round through her skull and into the wall behind her the body falling to the ground as the pistol went off from a hand twitch.

Moving straight to the body Shinji confirmed the kill before taking the pistol and searching for keys to the handcuffs.

“You know you have probable signed your death sentence doing this” Fuyutsuki responded as Shinji undid his handcuffs

“Yes but I want to know the truth and I couldn’t just leave you here to die” Ryoji replied

“Thank you Kaji you’re a good man but what are you going to do now?” Fuyutsuki asked

“First I’m going to get you out of here and don’t worry with my little partner covering me like he always does I actually feel safe” Ryoji replied

The three men exited the interrogation room and sprinted down the corridor rounding the corridor and getting to the end doorway they checked their corners as they moved into the large open room that had taken so long to clear before. Advancing to the door they entered the room a long time ago Shinji lead them up the stair well pausing as he got to the top fishing through the bag he pulled the last of his ammo and divided it up between himself and Ryoji.

Pressing his earpiece he engaged the radio “This is Sparrow I need extraction for three, priority one”

“Raven copies mark the LZ with green flairs, be warned lots of hostiles are at ground level” came the reply

“Sparrow copies air support would be appreciated” Shinji replied

“LittleBird1 is in the area use your strobe beacon for CAS runs” was the reply again

“Sparrow copies out” Shinji replied

Shinji pulled four strobe beacons and two green flares and went halves with Ryoji.

“Stay with me sir and we’ll get you through this” Ryoji spoke quietly

Shinji pulled the door back and quietly made his way through the corridor. Seeing two bodies waiting by the door way in the darkness he shot them both with short bursts and the bodies dropped to the ground. Sliding against a wall he peaked outside to see men and vehicles everywhere. Signalling to hit the floor he did the same as the hostiles opened fire peppering the wooden compound with bullets.

Crawling back to the other two he got their attention “Stay here and wait for my signal when you get it break for the trees on the western side” Shinji instructed

“Are you sure about this young man?” Fuyutsuki asked

“Positive” Shinji replied

Pulling a rug back exposed a trap door and Shinji dropped onto the ground under the compound and crawled to the back where it was deserted making it to the trees he double timed it around to the perimeter of the front where he found himself in the perfect position to throw his two strobe beacons, they both landed in the ranks of hostiles.

“This is LittleBird1 we have a visual on two strobe beacons do you want us to make a cross run between them” was the pilots voice in Shinji’s headset.

“Affirmative no friendlies in the area make runs for maximum causalities” Shinji replied

“LittleBird1 inbound weapons hot” the pilot replied

The chopper dropped down for a strafing run taking the hostiles completely by surprise as they continued to shoot at the compound the first run ripped up humvies and bodies as the hostiles took cover

“Is that the signal?” Fuyutsuki asked

“No you will know it when you see it” Kaji replied as the two men moved to the door frame taking cover.

The chopper banked and climbed as it got a safe distance away before turning around for the second run as the hostiles tracked its position trying to come up with a plan to shoot down this new threat.

Just as the chopper started its next run Shinji fired a grenade round into a tanker that was parked next to two humvies. The explosion and resulting fire ball turned night into day as the two humvies and about twenty men were incinerated instantly, the remaining forces taken by surprise or knocked off their feet by the violence of the explosion.

“That’s the signal” Kaji spoke up but Fuyutsuki already figured that.

The two men made a dash for the trees on the western side they were largely unnoticed until sniper rifle fire started picking off the hostiles that were tracking the two men.

‘I had no idea why he was carrying that thing for this mission but I’m sure glad he did’ Kaji thought with a grin as he checked his shoulder seeing Fuyutsuki right there keeping pace with him, the old man sure could move.

‘CRACK’ ‘CRACK!’ two more shots rang out but Kaji and Fuyutsuki still hadn’t heard the snap of a stray round that had gotten close. Shinji must be picking off the shooters before they could get a fix on them.

‘PFFFFFFfffff!!’ Shinji fired off a grenade round Kaji saw the vapour from the round pass over their heads. The following explosion was loud as the round hit the dirt. Shinji had missed the pursuing four wheel drive but the explosion had knocked it off its wheels sending it cart wheeling end over end until it came to rest on its roof two more cracks followed as Shinji fired the sniper rifle again. Kaji could see the muzzle flash this time and knew where Shinji was and they were getting close.

As they neared the woods a bright green flash lit up just short of the trees as Shinji lit a flair and threw it onto the ground giving the pilot just enough clearance to land.

“LittleBird1 this is Sparrow LZ is lit I’ll cover your approach” Shinji reported

“Roger that LittleBird1 inbound hot” the pilot replied

The chopper had banked wide after its last pass and came in with everything it had rockets and guns decimated what was left of the hostiles as tanks and jeeps were lit up and men cut down. The chopper touched town and the three men boarded quickly and the chopper lifted off.

Shinji raised his sniper rifle looking for targets that had been missed that might cause a problem for them

“Save your energy and ammo sparrow just watch the show” the pilots voice rang out through his head set

Shinji looked into the cockpit as the pilot spoke again

“This is LittleBird1 we have the package and are clear BroadSword you are a go” The pilot reported

“Roger that BroadSword is one minute out” came the reply

Shinji held onto his sniper rifle the barrel pointing out the door way “Look out the door way Sparrow up high in the sky” The pilot told Shinji

Doing as he was told Shinji could make out some red and green flashing lights in the sky

“Are they plane running lights?” He asked

“Yes three B-52’s” the pilot replied

The B-52’s dropped their payloads over the compound as night turned into day for the final time that night. The massive explosion lighting up the area for miles around the compound as everything was levelled. Shinji looked on in awe at the destruction knowing tonight no one would be coming after them now.

There would be nothing left of the compound except a smouldering wreck of twisted metal and some massive holes in the ground. There would be no evidence to point to who was there that night or what happened and that suited everyone just fine.
________________________________________

Landing on the apartment building Shinji went to hop out until Fuyutsuki spoke up

“Sparrow” he called out

“Yes sir” Shinji replied from behind his combat gear

“Thank you for everything tonight you saved me” Fuyutsuki replied

“Anytime sir I would never leave a friend behind” Shinji replied with a grin

“Check-in in a couple of days Sparrow” Kaji added

“Yes sir” Shinji replied as he ducked out of the chopper and it lifted off.

Making it into the apartment it was dark apart from a light coming from his room. Shinji dragged himself into his room and found his sister asleep on his futon where she had been trying to wait up for him to make sure he was ok. Stowing his gear away where it always went he grabbed a towel and some track pants and a t-shirt he grabbed a quick shower and returned to his room where Rei was still asleep.

“Wake up sister mine” Shinji whispered in Rei’s ear and her eyes fluttered open

Seeing her brother standing over her with no bullet holes in him she smiled that cute small smile she always saved for him

“It’s good to see you back safe and sound brother mine” Rei greeted her brother quietly “How did you go?”

“We got him back before he gave up anything and the complex was destroyed” Shinji replied satisfied with the result

“The best result you could have asked for” Rei replied still smiling. She was just glad her brother was home safe.

“Yeah it went as well as we could have hoped for” Shinji replied

“You must be tired” Rei replied

“Yeah it’s starting to catch up with me” Shinji replied

“I’ll let you get some rest. See you in the morning brother mine” Rei replied with another smile

“Good night sister mine” Shinji replied returning the smile

Rei headed to her room falling asleep easily with the knowledge her brother was safe and sound while Shinji checked his gear and stowed everything away for next time before catching some shut eye.
________________________________________

Shinji awoke to a text message from Ryoji ‘Call me not urgent’ it read. Thinking it was a strange request from his partner he took it at value and after stretching on his futon he made his way to the kitchen where his sister was having breakfast.

“Sleep well sister mine?” Shinji greeted his sister

“Yes I did. Do you want breakfast brother mine?” Rei replied quietly

“Can’t say no to that what are you making?” Shinji replied

“Omelette with spinach levees” Rei replied

“Sounds great” Shinji replied as he leaned on the door of the fridge while pulling the juice out “Juice?” He asked

“Yes thank you”

The siblings ate quietly enjoying the company and the food

“What are your plans for today since we have a day off?” Rei asked

“Today or tonight?” Shinji asked seeing where his sister was going with this

“Either really” Rei replied with an innocent smile on her face

“I have to study with Hikari this afternoon then we are going to a movie and I have to ring Ryoji and see what he wants he left me a message this morning. What about you?” Shinji replied

“Is everything alright?” Rei asked a little concerned that Kaji was ringing

“He said it wasn’t urgent so I assume it’s nothing important. So what are you doing?” Shinji replied not letting his sister off the hook so easily

“You are more perceptive than you or people think” Rei replied

“You taught me well now spill” Shinji replied

“I’m going out to lunch with Toji this afternoon” Rei replied with the faintest pink blush gracing her cheeks

“Cool, have fun and say hi to Toji for me” Shinji replied as he cleared the empty plates
________________________________________

After finishing the dishes Shinji grabbed his phone and headed into his room. Dialling a number he put the phone to his ear.

“Shinji” Came his partner’s voice down the line.

“Hi Ryoji” Shinji replied “What’s going on?”

“I need your help, my handler wants too meet up to debrief on last night, I want you to provide cover for me, I’m not taking any chances after last night” Ryoji explained

“Sure when and where?” Shinji asked

“Today 13:00 on the southern outskirts of the city, I’ve sent you an e-mail have a look at it now” Ryoji replied

Shinji sat on his futon and powered his laptop on; he plugged his hands free into his phone so he could use the computer easily.

“Hang-on I’m booting my computer up” Shinji spoke quietly as he looked at the progress bar on the red Nerv issue laptop he had been given when he arrived in Tokyo-3 those months ago.
Opening his e-mail he had two new messages, one from Hikari confirming study for tonight and one from Ryoji with several attachments.

“Ok where do I start” Shinji said as he opened the e-mail

“Open the map.pdf” Ryoji replied “The arrow indicates the meat point, the only access is from the single winding road into the point on the reserve” Ryoji explained

“This is a big open plane how am I meant to provide cover and stay hidden?” Shinji asked piecing it together easily just by looking at the map.

“I’ll get you some camouflage and you will have to use your sniper rifle from a distance” Ryoji replied

“It’s going to be hard to cover you like that” Shinji replied

“I know but I trust you with my life” Ryoji replied catching Shinji speechless not knowing what to say to that “You will have to get picked up by helicopter because of the time constraints we have. I want you out there early to check everything out and make sure nothing funny goes down” Ryoji replied

“No problem. What time?” Shinji asked

“Chopper will be on the roof at 10:00 lifting off at 10:30 bring your rifle everything else you need will be on board I’ll be in contact once you’re on the way” Ryoji replied

“Alright I better get ready I’ll talk to you later” Shinji replied and the call ended

Shinji closed the screen on his laptop and stood up this mission sounded difficult as a knock on his door broke his train of thought

“Shinji?” Rei called out softly

“Come on in” Shinji called out

“Is everything alright?” Rei asked as she walked in

“Sort off” Shinji replied “Ryoji is meeting a handler he’s just worried after last night so I’m going to provide cover for him”

“When?” Rei asked

“Today at 1” Shinji replied

“That’s going to be cutting it close with Hikari” Rei reminded her brother

“Yeah I know but it can’t be helped hopefully I’ll be right for time” Shinji replied as he pulled his sniper rifle from its case and started putting it together

“When are you leaving?” Rei asked a little worry creeping into her quiet voice

“Chopper will be on the roof at 10 lift off is 10:30, don’t worry sister mine I’ll be ok” Shinji reassured his sister

“I just worry about you is all” Rei replied “Can I wave you off again?”

“Of course you can” Shinji replied “Just make sure you enjoy your date, I can always ring if I’m in trouble” Shinji reassured his sister again

“I will” Rei replied with a smile “Well I’ll let you get too it. I’ll be in my room when you’re ready”

Shinji smiled back at his sister as she left and he quickly threw on a pair of black cargo pants, white t-shirt and a light blue jumper. The hot days had left Tokyo-3 for now and everyone was starting to speculate if seasons were going to return to the earth, though no one could explain why yet.

Shinji knocked on Rei’s door “Rei are you in there?” He asked

“Coming” Rei replied as she opened the door “What do you think?” She asked holding her arms out.

Rei was wearing a black and white print skirt with a blue t-shirt and a sky blue jumper over that

“You look great, I’m sure Toji will love it too” Shinji replied with a smile for his sister

“Are you going up?” Rei asked

“Yeah I’m going now” Shinji replied

“Where is all your stuff?” Rei asked as the twins headed out the front door and up towards the roof.

“It’s on the chopper I’ll gear up when it lands” Shinji replied

The sound of the chopper coming in was faint as the twins made it to the roof but it quickly grew louder until it touched down on the roof kicking up some dust and messing up the twins hair. The pilot killed the engine as the co-pilot got out and headed over to Shinji

“Sparrow”

Shinji nodded

“Who is this?” The co-pilot asked gesturing towards Rei

“This is my twin sister Rei. Rei this is the co-pilot and pilot of LittleBird1. I always fly with these guys” Shinji completed the introductions as the pilot joined them as well

“I can see the resemblance, you were here when we picked Sparrow up last night too right” the co-pilot replied

“I was and it’s nice to meet you” Rei replied quietly

“This way, we have all your gear” the co-pilot replied

The pilot and co-pilot headed to the chopper leaving Shinji and Rei behind

“Sparrow?” Rei whispered to Shinji

“My call sign I guess no idea where it came from but it’s what I’ve always used since Shannon Bio-8” Shinji replied

“You never use names?” Rei asked

“No I was told it helps protect our identities” Shinji replied

“Ok here are your new desert combat fatigues, a new set of body armour, new desert coloured boots, 2 spare mags for your rifle, two pistol clips and a thermal scope for your rifle” the co-pilot checked off all the gear.

Stripping off his clothes Shinji started with the combat fatigues and body armour. Getting dressed the pilot and co-pilot were shocked at the scars covering Shinji’s body they looked like they would have been really painful at the time. Rei always felt bad for her brother when she saw them but she didn’t show any signs of shock at seeing them again

“This body armour feels thin?” Shinji replied

“It is but it will give you more movement to snipe targets so don’t get shot with anything large calibre” the co-pilot replied

“Here is your ghillie suit”

Shinji put the camouflage on with some help

“Here is your scope and ammo” the pilot added handing Shinji the items, “We have ten minutes to lift off”

“Nice to meet you miss” The pilot and co-pilot said to Rei.

“Likewise look after him for me” Rei replied and the pilot and co-pilot hoped into the cockpit of the chopper.

Rei looked at Shinji with an emotion on her face Shinji couldn’t place.

“You ok Sister mine?” Shinji asked

“Yes, I know Misato will appreciate you keeping Kaji safe but don’t forget to look after yourself” Rei whispered back

“I will enjoy your date” Shinji replied with a soft smile that was just visible to Rei through the camouflage Shinji had on.

“Good luck” Rei whispered as Shinji headed to the chopper as the rotors picked up speed and the sound increased.

Watching her brother get in Rei looked on helplessly just wanting her brother to come back safely to her. He had been through much harder situations but Seele were getting sneaky now and with the end so close she was getting more worried about him. The noise from the chopper increased drowning everything out as it lifted off, Shinji sitting in the back giving his sister a small wave.

And just like that the chopper was gone and the sounds of the city returned and Rei returned to the apartment to get ready for her date.
________________________________________

Once Shinji had taken a moment he put his head set on.

“You with us sparrow?” the co-pilot asked

“Read you loud and clear” Shinji replied

“I forgot to give you this” the co-pilot leaned back handing Shinji a com set “Clip the mic
around your neck fit the ear piece and you will be on with Eagle”

“Thanks” Shinji replied removing his head set and fitting the com set then reattaching his head set so he could get his remaining instructions from the pilot and co-pilot.

“Ok we are going to drop you in your position you will have real time satellite uplink and three hours to reconnaissance the area for Eagle. The weather is overcast with showers predicted and it’s cold but there is nothing we can do for you at that. We will be 10 minutes out hidden if you need air support so you’re going to have to call us in early if you need us” the co-pilot finished outlaying the mission for Shinji

“Understood” Shinji replied

“We are two minutes out get ready.” The pilot announced

“Yes sir.” Shinji replied

“Good hunting soldier.” The co-pilot added

Shinji gave a nod as the red light came on and he dropped the head set onto the seat next to him and got ready

“Eagle this is sparrow I’m one minute out over.” Shinji spoke into the com set

“Eagle copies.” Ryoji replied

Shinji waited as the chopper slowed and came into a hover at three metres and the light went green. Not wasting a second he jumped out landing in a crouch he put some distance between himself and the chopper as it instantly started climbing and turning away. Shinji appeared to have the silence of the reserve to himself and he went about making sure that was right as he started checking for targets.

An hour later Shinji was staying hidden having found nothing he checked his satellite uplink and it showed nothing in the area either though with the weather closing in it would be useless in another hour.

“Sparrow this is eagle we are two hours out give me a sit rep.” Ryoji requested

“No hostiles detected. I’m in position now.” Shinji replied

“How’s the weather?” Ryoji asked

“It’s cold and overcast. It’s closing in satellite will be useless in an hour or so.” Shinji replied

“Sit tight not too long to go now.” Ryoji replied

“Roger.” Shinji replied

Shinji sat tight and kept watching the area. The weather closed right in and it started raining, Shinji checked the satellite uplink and he had a nice view of the overhead clouds ‘Useless’ he thought to himself.

Continuing to check the area as everything started to get wet Shinji knew he was stuck where he was now, tracks would be easier for someone to find at the moment but hopefully he would have the element of surprise, then he heard a car approaching.

“Eagle this is sparrow I have a car approaching the site standby.” Shinji reported

“Copy.” Ryoji replied

Shinji saw a dark maroon coloured van approaching Looking through the thermal scope showed two bodies up front but he couldn’t see in the back. The van stopped at the meet point and two men got out one civilian and another in camouflage, a third man wearing camouflage got out the back. The two men in camouflage grabbed sniper rifles mats and coats and headed away from Shinji onto the hill surrounding the meet point. The civilian headed back to the van.

“Eagle I have two snipers and a civilian. The civilian is staying at the van and the snipers are heading to the opposite side of the meet point in the hills.” Shinji reported.

“Ok that sounds like my contact is working with Seele keep your head down these guys are pros, give me a description on the civilian.” Ryoji replied

“Caucasian, solid build, long black hair in a pony tail wearing dark glasses with a trench coat and blue jeans.” Shinji replied

“That’s my contact.” Ryoji replied

“You’re walking into a trap.” Shinji replied

“I know but if I don’t go through with this they will keep coming after me and then they will try to find you.” Ryoji replied “I have a plan, just sit tight and kill anyone that makes a move on me once I get there.” Ryoji added

“Roger that.” Shinji replied

“See you soon Eagle out.” Ryoji replied and the connection went silent
Shinji continued watching the two snipers as they took up a position at the top of the hill overlooking the meet point. It would be a long shot around seven hundred metres but he was sure it was two shots he could make. Keeping one eye on Ryoji’s handler Shinji watched him leave in the van.

“The civilian and van are leaving.” Shinji reported

“Copy” Ryoji replied “I’m thirty minutes from your location.”

The rain started falling heavier and Shinji was getting drenched all his gear was wet but he stuck to the plan staying hidden. The two snipers on the hill had taken shelter one under a tree the other using a tarp, one was smoking a cigarette.

‘Not very professional like Ryoji said’ Shinji thought to himself but he kept track of everything they were doing. The one under the tarp had the radio and Shinji decided he would shoot him first when it came to it. The one under the tree knelt down and started assembling something but his body blocked what he was doing. Shinji kept watching trying to get an angle but he would have to wait until the sniper moved.

Finally he stood up and hefted a ‘What the fuck he has a rocket launcher’ Shinji thought checking the other sniper he saw he was sporting a barret

“Eagle these snipers have a rocket launcher and high calibre weapons.” Shinji reported

“Standby the van has just returned.” he added as the van pulled into the dusty car park where Ryoji would be in about ten minutes.

“Your guy is back looks like he is holding a shot gun and a pistol.” Shinji noted seeing the barrel sticking out the bottom of the trench coat and the pistol in hand “You’re coming into an ambush.” Shinji started again

“Just keep me covered I trust in you.” Ryoji interrupted “I’m two minutes out be ready.”

“I am.” Shinji replied looking down the scope, the thermal images lighting up easily he had his three targets picked out as a black Nerv sedan moved into the car park.

Ryoji had his com open, Shinji could hear the road noise as the car travelled along and then the idling of the engine until Ryoji killed it. Ryoji got out of the car and approached his contact.

“Hands up Kaji.” The contact ordered

Ryoji complied raising his arms as he was searched for weapons. The contact moved back and the shotgun was drawn. “Where is the information?”

“In the car what’s with the gun we’ve been together for years now?” Ryoji replied

“Don’t worry about that just get the information slowly and throw it at my feet.” The contact ordered

Ryoji popped the trunk on the car and leaned into it “Wait for my signal and make your move.”

“Roger.” Shinji replied

Ryoji rose up from the boot with the flash card in his hand and flicked it at the feet of the contact. The contact bent down and picked up the flash card and eyed it intently. Ryoji made his move and dropped a smoke grenade. The smoke spread quickly as Ryoji hid behind his car as vision was reduced to zero.

“What are you playing at Ryoji you can’t hide for ev..” Pfft!!

Shinji’s silenced shot killed the contact the gun shot splattering blood from his head onto the van as the body collapsed. He moved lining up the sniper with the radio through the smoke and dropped him with another silenced shot. The bullet running through the scope and then his head as the body collapsed. The second sniper saw the body fall and fired the rocket blindly into the smoke hitting the van causing a massive explosion. Everything went white in Shinji’s scope until he was able to compensate for it. Making out a small outline on the hill Shinji fired three rounds Pfft... Pfft... Pfft! The first round hit the tree but the second and third hit the sniper in the chest and head.

Shinji was up and heading for Ryoji’s car in a sprint covering the distance quickly, he could feel his heart hammering in his chest as he strained for every ounce of speed he had to get to his partner

“Eagle sound off.” Shinji called out as he raced towards the car but there was no reply

“EAGLE sound off!!” Shinji screamed

“Flash.” Ryoji called out the safe word

Shinji found Ryoji hunched over on the ground next to the car bleeding from his side

“Ryoji are you ok?”

“I will be I’m just sore kid.” Ryoji replied straining

“Come on let’s get you out of here.” Shinji said helping his partner up

Shinji got Ryoji into his car.

“Ok here is the plan you need to hide those sniper bodies and dump the one from my trunk on the ground near the contact then we can go it will look like I’m dead and we will be home free, the rest is up to you.” Ryoji explained quickly

“I’ll be back in a minute.” Shinji replied as he left Ryoji in the passenger seat of the Nerv sedan looking a lot worse for wear with a couple of windows blown out.

Shinji pulled the body from the trunk and dumped it next to the contact it would look like there was a fight and they both died. As Shinji dumped the body onto the ground the van exploded as the fuel tank ruptured the explosion depositing Shinji onto the front window of the Nerv sedan. Looking around Shinji saw it was only the van that had exploded and there was no attacker but then he noticed a sharp stabbing pain coming from his arm, looking down he found the source as shrapnel stuck out of his bicep and he was bleeding, nothing too bad but it hurt.

“Sparrow you ok?” Ryoji yelled out the window.

“I’m fine.” Shinji called back as he headed to hide the sniper bodies. He got to the first one and found the man was still breathing. He drew his pistol and shot him in the head and dragged the body away to hide it in a bush. The rain started falling heavier now making it harder for anyone to piece together what had happened.

Getting to the second body Shinji heard the radio go off “Gibbons report in.”
He didn’t want to but he knew he would have to buy himself some time to escape

“Gibbons report in is Kaji dead.” the radio went off again

“Gibbons here.” Shinji spoke in as rough a voice as he could manage “Kaji is dead so is the contact.”

“You mean Rose, jesus Gibbons you are hopeless with names.” the radio chirped back

“Yes sir sorry sir.” Shinji replied

“Alright well get our guy from PD there to call it in two hours from now, clean up and disappear, be back at base tomorrow. Out.” the radio chirped and then the line was dead.

Shinji dragged the last body into the bushes, these guys were not going to be found for a long time, and with that thought Shinji headed back to the Nerv sedan.

“We have a problem Seele have someone in the PD coming to clean this up in two hours but for all intents you‘re dead.” Shinji informed Ryoji of the new development

“It’s ok I need to lay low for a while, if you get me to my apartment I’ll be ok.” Ryoji replied

Shinji cranked the engine over and started driving down the dirt road, he was almost there just get Ryoji home and its mission accomplished. Shinji followed the straight forward directions towards Ryoji’s apartment. Breathing a sigh of relief as the sun started to set giving the rain clouds an eerie red shade to them he turned into Ryoji’s street only to have a lump of ice form in his stomach. Blue and red flashing lights everywhere.

“Just keep driving normally.” Ryoji instructed

Shinji nodded and continued down the street noticing Ryoji looked a little paler than he should. Heading past the apartment complex the cops were everywhere probably busy turning the apartment upside down looking for evidence against the spy.

“Stop that Nerv car.” Shinji heard a cop call out

Not wasting time with that Shinji shifted down two gears and buried the accelerator into the floor, the tyres squealing in protest at the sudden acceleration as the Nerv sedan shot down the street. The police had been caught napping as Shinji flew around the corner at the end of the street bouncing off the gutter keeping the accelerator on the floor the whole time. Grabbing another gear then another, checking the rear view mirror he could see the pursuing red and blue flash of the police off in the distance.

Changing streets again the car fishtailed from the speed Shinji cornered at “Where else can we go?” Shinji asked

“I don’t know that was the only place I had off the grid” Ryoji replied his voice sounding weak

“Are you sure you’re ok?” Shinji asked

“I’ll be ok we just need to find somewh....” Ryoji mumbled as he collapsed into the seat

Turning down an alleyway and bringing the car to a screeching halt Shinji checked his partners pulse, it was there.... Just. Pulling out his phone he started going through his contacts. Rei no she’s on a date. Misato can’t call her with this. Asuka is in a coma. Ritsuko fuck no that will get us both killed. Kozo this will have to be it. Hitting dial he held the phone to his ear

“You have reached the voice mail of Kozo Fuyutsuki please leave a message and I’ll call you back” came through the phone immediately “Fuck can I not get a break” Shinji yelled in frustration

Going back through the contacts, Toji on the date with Rei. Kensuke, he hovered over the name thinking of his lost friend who’s dead. Hikari, I’ve got no one left the young man thought and hit call. The phone rang once and Hikari picked up

“Hello”

“Hikari it’s Shinji” the young man started trying to stay calm

“Shinji is everything ok? Can’t you make study again?” Hikari asked sounding a little sad

“I’m fine I’m just in a jam at work I need your help” Shinji replied

“What’s wrong Shinji?” Hikari asked sadness changing to worry instantly

“Who is home with you?” Shinji asked

“It’s just me and Kodama, Dad and Nozomi are out and won’t be back for a bit” Hikari replied

“Kodama’s a nurse right?” Shinji asked

“Yes but what’s going on? Are you ok?” Hikari asked sounding even more worried.

“I’m fine my partner is hurt though can we come to you?” Shinji asked

“Ah sure” Hikari replied sounding confused now

“Thanks I’ll be there shortly just keep all the lights off” Shinji replied

“Ok are you sure you’re ok?” Hikari asked again

“Don’t worry I’m fine I’ll explain everything when I get there, see you soon” Shinji ended the call and got moving again coming out of the alleyway and blending into traffic as much as he could, moving as fast as he could but not so quick as to draw attention to himself Shinji navigated his way to Hikari’s street.

Turning into her neighbourhood with the traffic having thinned out Shinji dropped the hammer again the Nerv sedan eating up the tarmac as the partners sped down the quiet street bring the car to a screeching halt outside Hikari’s house the two women flew out the door once they saw Shinji picking up an unconscious Kaji from the passenger seat.

“What’s going on?” Hikari asked her voice full of concern she recognised Kaji from Misato’s party all those months ago remembering the fact that Asuka worshiped the man

“He needs help.” Shinji replied heading for the house while holding his partner

“He needs a hospital!l” Kodama interjected

“I can’t take him there he will be killed.” Shinji replied as he laid Ryoji down on the lounge and dropped his rifle from his back on the floor “Just do what you can for him.”

“Alright…” Kodama replied “Grab some towels, hot water and my tweezers I’ll see what we are dealing with here.” Hikari just nodded and headed off to do as she was asked

“What can I do?” Shinji asked

“Help Hikari for now.” Kodama replied

Shinji found Hikari struggling with a stack of towels, helping her by taking three quarters of those the two teens headed back to the lounge room with all the supplies

“What happened to him?” Kodama asked

“A car exploded next to him” Shinji replied

The sisters looked at him like he was crazy “How did the car explode?” Kodama asked

“It was hit with an RPG.” Shinji replied quietly as his mind finally had the time to start processing the events since the ambush

“Where was this and what were you doing there?” Hikari asked her brain having processed the information and come to terms with what Shinji was saying

“We were on the outskirts of Tokyo-3 I was covering him while he met with his government contact but it turned into an ambush we barely made it out alive” Shinji replied, there was just no way he could lie to Hikari especially when he had to look into those big brown eyes of hers. ‘To hell with mission security it was all blown to hell now anyway’ ran through his mind

“What are you talking about Shinji this doesn’t make any sense?” Hikari asked now thoroughly confused

“I’ve been working an investigation into Nerv’s higher ups and a shadow group called Seele. Everything suggests they are trying to destroy the world but we are close enough to stop them now once they make their move.” Shinji explained briefly

“Which higher ups in Nerv?” Hikari asked

“The Commander and Dr. Akagi primarily plus whatever moles have infiltrated Nerv from Seele.” Shinji replied

“How long has this been going on for?” Hikari asked

“I was brought in just before you started tutoring me.” Shinji replied

“Alright you two give me a couple of hours I’ll have the wound patched up and clean, go have your date or something.” Kodama interrupted causing both teens to blush though Shinji’s was hidden beneath face paint and camouflage

“Is he going to be ok?” Shinji asked

“He should be, who is he?” Kodama asked

“This is Eagle... As soon as he is awake let me know.” Shinji replied as he let Hikari lead him out of the lounge room and up into the kitchen

“Do you need a drink Shinji?” Hikari asked getting nervous again

“Can I get a glass of water please?” Shinji asked

Hikari poured a glass and gave it to Shinji, “Do you want to get out of that gear?” she asked

“Yeah can you give me a hand to get out of this glillie suit.” Shinji replied after downing the tall glass quickly.

Hikari helped him out of the suit and then she noticed his arm. “Shinji you’re bleeding” she exclaimed

“It’s ok it’s not bad.” Shinji replied having a good look at the wound for the first time seeing the metal from the van sticking out of it.

“Come on you need to get the metal out before it gets infected” Hikari said as she lead Shinji up to the bathroom

Getting to the bathroom Shinji realised two things, this was very spacious home compared to the one he shared with Rei and it was a lot more girly as well ‘I guess that’s the difference between living with one and three women’ Shinji thought to himself.

“Take off your shirt and we can fix your arm up.” Hikari said doing her best not to blush too hard at the thought

Hikari held in a gasp as Shinji did as he was told instantly, she had heard about and seen Shinji with his shirt off before but had never been so close. Running her hands from his shoulder to elbow she got a rough gauge of the amount of metal under the skin. To Shinji Hikari’s touch was the nicest thing he had ever felt as he closed his eyes and took in everything of the moment, the feel of Hikari’s touch, the sound of her breathing as she concentrated on what she was doing and the smell of her perfume.

It felt so good and was followed by a sharp pain as Hikari ripped the metal out of Shinji’s arm and pressed a damp cloth over it to stop the bleeding.

“How is that?” she asked

“Much better... Thank you.” Shinji replied glad it was all over

“I hope you’re careful with Mr. Kaji on these missions of yours.” Hikari replied

“We always are but there was no way out of this trap, everyone has to think he is dead so don’t tell anyone about this.” Shinji replied

“Ok.” Hikari replied

“Thanks for everything Hikari, I had nowhere else to go today when everything turned to shit.” Shinji replied

“Do they hurt?” Hikari asked

“What’s that?” Shinji asked as Hikari pulled a bandage out of a cupboard and started rolling it firmly around Shinji’s upper arm.

“The scars you have.” Hikari replied concentrating on bandaging Shinji’s arm

“No they don’t hurt anymore they are just there.” Shinji replied

His head dropped as he felt Hikari trace the lines of some scars going across his chest, again the touch felt so nice.

“It must have hurt at the time?” Hikari replied still tracing the lines on the front of Shinji’s body

“It did.” Shinji replied admitting the fact started to bring up some painful memories.

Rubbing at the bandage Hikari had applied somehow made them disappear “This feels good you’ve done a great job.” Shinji added with a smile “Your touch feels so nice.” He added in a whisper.

Hikari blushed lightly at the admission as she continued to trace the lines of Shinji’s scars her eyes focused on the long thin lines running across his chest. Shinji raised his hands up and cupped Hikari’s elbows; this got her to look up into his eyes. “I’m sorry.” Shinji whispered

‘Oh God he’s going to tell me he doesn’t like me like that’ Hikari thought. A host of emotions racing through her mind before her brain kicked into gear “What for?” She asked quietly

“Ruining your night... I know it was meant to be study and dinner then a movie and I’ve ruined all that by turning up with Kaji all banged up needing your help.” Shinji replied

“It’s ok I’m just glad I could help, after all it’s always you, Rei and Asuka putting your lives on the line for us, it’s the least I could do.” Hikari replied her hands now just resting on Shinji’s chest

Their eyes met and time seemed to slow for the young coupe as their faces inched closer together stopping just millimetres apart they could feel each other’s breathing on their faces, Hikari smelled like vanilla and flowers and Shinji thought it was the sweetest thing he had ever smelled. Shinji pressed his lips to Hikari’s in a soft romantic kiss as his hands moved around to her back to hold her. Hikari just let Shinji hold her she couldn’t believe this was happening, all those day dreams she had had about this moment and it was nothing like she imagined.

To her Shinji smelled like dirt, sweat and blood but she never felt as safe as she did now, the boy she loved was holding her tightly, warmly, he was kissing her and it was better than anything she could have ever imagined. She felt so warm in his embrace which got a little tighter as the kiss went on for longer until it stopped with Shinji keeping his arms around Hikari as he looked into her eyes.

“Was that a thank you kiss?” Hikari asked quietly and then kicked herself for saying something so stupid.

“No it’s not...” Shinji replied “It was because I love you.” He added with a small smile unable to hold his emotions back for the girl he loved anymore.

Hikari smiled she couldn’t believe the words she had just heard “I........” but she was cut off by another kiss as Shinji pulled her in closer not wanting to let go. He kissed her with everything one has at 15 and she did the same for him until finally they reached a point where they had no idea how much time had passed but it would have been too much.

“Shinji” Hikari whispered.

Shinji didn’t say anything but he looked into Hikari’s eyes and saw happiness

“I love you too......” Hikari replied “We should probably get back down stairs though.” She added reluctantly.

Shinji nodded and the two teens headed back down stairs holding hands. Kodama noticed as soon as they entered the lounge room “Did you fix your boyfriend up?” She asked

Hikari looked at her older sister and smiled “Yes I did.” She replied holding Shinji’s hand as he went over to look at Kaji

“How is he?” Shinji asked

“He will be fine I’ve pulled some shrapnel out and he’s sleeping now just run this bag of fluid through to stop him getting dehydrated. He will wake up sore but he will be ok.” Kodama replied

“Thank you.” Shinji replied “Where did you get a bag of fluid from?” He asked putting the pieces together

“Perks of the job.” Kodama replied with a devilish grin. “Who is he?” she asked

“No one.” Shinji replied “Is it safe to move him?”

“Yes there is no chance of further injury.” Kodama replied

“Ok we need to get out of here before it becomes dangerous for you.” Shinji replied looking over Ryoji carefully

“That’s fine but someone has to go with you to hold the bag up, it’s a gravity feed you don’t want the bag flow reversing.” Kodama advised

“Can’t I just sit it on him and hang it later?” Shinji asked

“It’s not preferable it’s better to have someone with you holding it up.” Kodama replied again

“I haven’t got anyone else with me.” Shinji replied

“I’ll go with you.” Hikari spoke up still holding Shinji’s hand “It’s just holding the bag up right?” she added

“It’s too dangerous.” Shinji replied

“You might as well, remember what you said.” Hikari replied

There was only a hint of puppy dog eyes as Hikari pressed her case but it was enough for Shinji, in that instant he had a fleeting thought that he may never be able to say no to that face especially if she puts that look on harder than just now.

“Alright but you have to do exactly as I say your safety is my priority.” Shinji replied

“Alright.” Hikari replied with a smile and a nod

“Kodama can you get my rifle and gear please?” Shinji asked the older Horaki nodding as she picked everything Shinji brought in up

Hikari grabbed the IV bag while Shinji carefully scooped up Ryoji and carried him out to the black Nerv sedan out on the street as the front door opened and Hikari’s dad came home with Nozomi.

“What’s going on here?” The man of the house asked his voice not angry just flat and even with a hint of surprise

“Sorry sir I had nowhere else to go.” Shinji replied

“Who are you?”

“I’m pilot...”

“Hiya Shinji.” Nozomi interrupted recognising the young pilot through his face paint

“Hi Nozomi.” Shinji replied

“Hikari what’s going on here?” Her father asked

“Kodama and I are just helping this solider his partner was hurt.” Hikari replied “Daddy I’ll explain later but we have to go now.” Hikari added

“Not before you tell me what is going on.”

“Daddy time is important I’ll explain everything when I get back... Be good Nozomi” Hikari replied as she led Shinji out the door to the car.

Shinji laid Ryoji down across the back seat Hikari hoped into the front seat holding the IV bag up high as Shinji settled in behind the wheel and turned the ignition on the engine roaring to life. Jamming the car into first Shinji took off at a normal pace to try not to draw any extra attention.

“Where are you going to go?” Hikari asked

“Kaji has a safe house he told me about as a last resort, he will be safe there until he heals and all this is finished.” Shinji replied

“Why is hiding so important now?” Hikari asked

“Seele the group I mentioned before wanted him dead and they should think it worked by now, if they find out he’s not it will mess with their plans and they will have to come after him again.” Shinji replied

“Well just make sure you are careful please.” Hikari practically begged

“Don’t worry I always am.” Shinji replied
________________________________________

Shinji completed the drive out to the safe house outside Tokyo-3 they didn’t encounter any problems which was lucky as the Nerv sedan wasn’t sounding too hot by the time they reached the safe house. Getting Kaji out of the car and settled into the safe house Shinji left the bag hanging safely over head as his partner laid in bed. He put his phone on charge in arms reach but off so he would be set when he woke up.

“All set do you need anything to eat before we go?” Shinji asked

“No I’m ok I’ll eat when we get back to Tokyo-3” Hikari replied

Shinji grabbed a set of keys of the counter and headed to the shed out the back. Opening the big sliding door and pressing the remote the lights on a 4x4 ute flashed. Shinji hoped in and started the engine; he glanced across to Ryoji’s black sports car as he let the engine warm up. It was a replica of the red car he had seen his partner driving but probably a lot faster. ‘I’d love him to take me for a drive in that’ the young man thought driving the ute around the front

“Let’s get going there is a car out the front.” Shinji got Hikari’s attention

“Will he be ok?” Hikari asked

“He’ll be fine, this place is hidden away and he has everything he needs when he wakes up.” Shinji replied

Shinji dropped a mine into the front seat of the Nerv sedan as he walked past and got into the ute with Hikari.

“What was that?” Hikari asked

“Just a timed mine I need to destroy that car” Shinji replied as they started driving away

“How come?” Hikari asked again

“I can’t leave any evidence behind and to anyone who stumbles across this place it will looked like a burned out car dumped outside an abandon shack.” Shinji replied as the mine exploded engulfing the Nerv car in a fireball that would leave nothing left of the car but a smouldering shell and no evidence to follow.

The explosion caused Hikari to flinch and she leaned in to Shinji who obliged by holding her hand and leaning in so she could put her head on his shoulder. It felt nice for the couple and they would stay that way as they made the journey back into Tokyo-3
________________________________________

“I just need to make a quick stop.” Shinji spoke as he pulled into a parking garage

The place looked familiar to Hikari then it hit her “This is Miss Misato’s place?”

Parking next to a familiar blue alpine Shinji killed the engine “Yeah it is.” he replied as they both got out of the car “You don’t have to come if you don’t want to.” Shinji added
“I want to support you, you are my boyfriend after all.” Hikari replied

Shinji paused mid step taken by surprise “I mean do you want to be my boyfriend?” Hikari corrected herself

Shinji turned to the girl he loved with a small smile on his face “Of course I do I’d love to be if you want me to.” he replied

“I want nothing more.” she replied pulling her boyfriend into a hug “Let’s go see Miss Misato.”

Shinji put his ear to the door

‘I will say the words I could not say years ago.... Good-bye’

Shinji heard the pre recorded message Ryoji had told him about followed by Misato’s pained sobs

“You’re a fool... You’re always such a fool” Shinji heard through the door as Misato’s sobs continued

Shinji knocked on the door

“Go away.” Misato yelled out

“Open up Misato.” Shinji called out

Shinji heard the table move as Misato pulled herself to her feet and charged for the door, the footsteps were loud and the door flew open quickly once Misato got too it a look of confusion on her tear stained face as she didn’t expect to see Hikari standing with Shinji.

“What are you two doing here?” Misato asked drying her eyes with her sleeve

“I need to talk to you.” Shinji said

Misato knew what it was about and grabbed Shinji by the shirt and dragged him into her apartment “Come on in Hikari” she called over her shoulder as she put Shinji in a chair at the kitchen table

“What happened?”

“We were ambushed by the government contact everyone is dead.” Shinji replied

“I’m going to need more information that.” Misato replied testily

“Everything you need is in here, read it.” Shinji replied leaving a folder on the table.

He stood up and walked over to Hikari and stood next to her looking at Misato

“You want me to read it now?” Misato asked

“Yes then burn it.” Shinji replied feeling weird to giving orders to his superior

Misato sat down at the table and opened the manila folder there was a small stack of papers inside. On top was a small hand written letter, she recognised the writing as Kaji’s straight away and started reading

Dearest Katsuragi
If you are reading this it means the meat with my government contact was not what it should have been and he is obviously working for Seele. If Shinji has brought you this folder than it means I am alive and well at a safe house and will have to stay in hiding for some time. I left all the information from my investigation on a data card inside the white capsule on your dresser. All that is left to do is figure out the details of the Commander’s and Seele’s end game and stop them. Don’t worry about me just look after yourself and the children.
I will see you soon and please remember that I love you
Ryoji

“Wait you mean he’s really...” Misato was silenced by Shinji putting a finger to his lips and he winked at her pointing to the wall

Misato got what he meant straight away and returned his wink “... he’s really gone then” she finished sadly

“I’m afraid so…” Shinji replied

Misato started crying again it wasn’t hard considering she had already been doing it over the recording on her answering machine. Looking through the rest of the file the full story had been told of the nights events, where the meat went down and who the contact that was turned by Seele was. There was nothing else; everything Misato would need was on memory card she already had.

Walking over to the sink Misato turned a hot plate on and held the corner of the file against it. It started smoking and then caught fire, the flames growing from that first corner and within the minute the whole folder was on fire as Misato dropped it into the empty sink to burn out leaving no trace at all.

Misato turned to the young couple with a devilish smile on her face “I didn’t expect to see you here Hikari.”

“Sorry Miss Misato I wasn’t expecting tonight to turn out like it did either.” Hikari replied

“That’s ok just keep that boyfriend of yours in check, can’t have him getting into too much trouble.” Misato replied her grin growing by the second

“Yes Miss Misato.” Hikari replied blushing furiously

“Well what have you got left to do for tonight?” Misato asked Shinji

“Take Hikari home and then go home myself.” Shinji replied

“Need a lift?” Misato asked

“Not tonight.” Shinji replied holding up a set of keys

“Alright well you better get going you have school tomorrow and don’t forget you are still on down time.” Misato replied

“Yes ma’am.” Shinji replied

“See you two later.” Misato replied and the young couple left

Once the door shut she allowed herself a small smile. Somehow he had managed it, most of the truth and he wasn’t dead and those two do make such a cute couple.
________________________________________

Shinji drove Hikari home, it was uneventful there wasn’t even another car on the road this late at night as he pulled into the drive way the front door opened and Hikari’s dad was standing on the front door step.

“You don’t have to come in if you don’t want to.” Hikari spoke up

“It’s ok I actually want to.” Shinji replied

Walking up the front steps holding hands they stopped before Hikari’s dad.

“Well at least you both made it home safely, how is your friend?”

“He will be ok.” Shinji replied

“Go inside Hikari... Do you have a minute young man?”

“Yes sir.” Shinji replied as Hikari gave him one final glance before heading inside

“Follow me than.” Hikari’s father replied as he lead Shinji into the lounge room and motioned for Shinji to sit opposite him.

Hikari found her sisters listening at the far door to the lounge room “What’s going on?” she whispered

“Daddy is about to talk to Shinji.” Kodama replied just as quietly “So you and Shinji huh. I knew you two had it bad for each other.” she added

“What if we do?” Hikari asked

“Is it official?” Hikari nodded

“That’s nice but there is one thing, what is he doing running around in combat gear and driving cars?” Kodama asked

“I can’t say but it’s for his work.” Hikari replied

“Is Shinji a solider?” Nozomi asked

“Yes but he already was when he was a pilot.” Hikari replied as they started listening to their dad speaking to Shinji
________________________________________

“Can you tell me what is going on?”

“No sir.” Shinji replied

“Look I’ve heard the girls talking about you and you seem to be a nice enough kid so that begs the question what are you doing running around at night like this?”

“Its part of my job.” Shinji replied

“Alright then just make sure my daughter is safe.”

“Yes sir I will.” Shinji replied

“And your partner is ok?”

“He will be fine.” Shinji replied again

“Alright well I better let you go, my daughters are all probably listening at the door you can say bye if you want”

“Thank you sir it was nice to meet you.” Shinji replied

Mr Horaki stood up and offered Shinji his hand which the young man took “Don’t feel you have to answer but do you love her?”

“Very much.” Shinji replied as the hand shake finished

“Good than you will have no problem keeping your word.” and with that Hikari’s dad left the room

The three sisters walked in to find Shinji standing there

“Hiaya Shinji.” Nozomi broke Shinji out of his daze

“Hi Nozomi how are you?” Shinji replied

“I’m ok and how are you?” Nozomi replied starting to rock back and forth on her heels and toes

“I’m good.” Shinji replied with a smile for the small girl

“How is your partner?” Kodama asked

“He was doing ok when I left.” Shinji replied

“That’s good well we’ll leave you two to it.” Kodama replied “Bye Shinji…” Nozomi added
The two sisters left Hikari with Shinji

“Are you ok?” Hikari asked

“Yeah I’m ok guess the day is just catching up with me.” Shinji replied

“Well I better let you go then, I’ll see you at school tomorrow.” Hikari replied as she walked Shinji to his car

They stopped at the driver’s door

“Thanks for your help tonight I couldn’t have done it without you.” Shinji replied

“That’s ok.” Hikari replied leaning in for a hug which Shinji was only too happy to oblige with as she rested her head on the young man’s shoulder.

They held the embrace for a minute enjoying the closeness of each other Shinji pulled his head back to give Hikari a quick kiss on the lips which was nice and Hikari replied with a hug of her own as she nuzzled into the crook of Shinji’s neck taking in his smell, still dirt, sweat and blood. He really needed a shower but she loved this smell, it was how her Shinji smelled today. She kissed him on the cheek

“You better get going I’ll see you at school.”

“See you at school.” Shinji replied jumping into the ute.

He started it up and headed for home.
________________________________________

Getting home he found Rei asleep in front of the t.v which was off. There was some pop music playing quietly from the stereo, he hadn’t heard this song before but he was getting tired and it had been a long day. He stowed all his gear in his room and came back out to wake his sister up

“Wake up sister mine” he whispered while gently rocking her.

Rei’s eyes fluttered open and they focused on Shinji

“How was your date?” Shinji asked his sister

“It was great and yours?” Rei replied

“Interesting.” Shinji offered

“How was the mission?” Rei asked quietly

“Successful despite what you will hear.” Shinji replied quietly with a smile

“What happened?” Rei asked

“They tried to ambush the meat point but we took them out, Ryoji’s at a safe hours now resting up.” Shinji replied

“That’s good because there was a report on the news saying a Nerv operative was found dead in a car bomb outside the city limits. Police are investigating”. Rei informed her brother

“That will be the meat point Seele are covering it up all their operatives are dead Ryoji staged his death hopefully it will work.” Shinji replied

“So did you see Hikari?” Rei asked with a small smile on her face

“Tell me how your date was first.” Shinji replied

It was a fair request and Rei knew it but she wanted to know what happened with her brother so she pouted “You go first brother mine.” She replied

“I already have sister mine so what happened?” Shinji replied

Rei knew this time she was beat, first time for everything they say.

“We went to dinner at a Ramen bar and then out to a movie, we had a great night.” Rei replied

“That’s good, what did you see?” Shinji asked

“An action film it was good then we went for a walk through the city and Toji escorted me back here and he went home.” Rei replied

“I’m glad you guys had a good time” Shinji replied

“There is one other thing Toji asked me to be his girlfriend he was nervous about it said it was some unwritten rule that you don’t date your friends sister” Rei replied

“Don’t worry about that I’m happy for you if it makes you happy, you said yes right? I’ve seen the way you look at each other.” Shinji replied

Rei blushed a little her complexion was just too fare to hide even the slightest blush.
“Yes I did.” Rei replied softly

“Great” Shinji replied hugging his sister

“Now spill what happened with you and Hikari” Rei half demanded

“Well Ryoji was hit with shrapnel when the car exploded, I couldn’t get through to anyone so I called Hikari, Kodama fixed him up and Hikari helped me get him to the safe house. Then I had to square things away with Misato and after that I took Hikari home.” Shinji replied

“So you basically spent the whole night with Hikari something must have happened?” Rei asked pressing on

“Well I guess it’s like you and Toji we are dating now.” Shinji replied

“Did you ask her?” Rei pressed on wanting more details

“Not as such.” Shinji replied knowing he was only delaying the inevitable his sister always found out everything.

“So she asked you?” Rei continued in her quiet voice.

“Yeah she did.” Shinji replied

“That’s great, I hope you two are happy.” Rei replied

Shinji smiled he knew they would be. He must have spaced out for a moment thinking about Hikari when Rei tapped him on the shoulder. Seeing she had his attention now she continued.

“I know there is more to it and I’m not going to pry any more than I have so I’ll let you go get cleaned up and get some rest we have school tomorrow.” Rei repeated

“Thanks sister mine.” Shinji replied

“For not prying too much or looking out for you?” Rei replied

“Both.” Shinji replied quietly

“Well if you ever need anything I’m here for you.” Rei replied

“Thanks. I’ll see you in the morning.” Shinji replied

“Goodnight brother mine.”

“Good night sister mine.”

Shinji headed to his room to go get cleaned up while Rei killed the music and headed to bed with a smile. The mission was a success and everyone was home safe, on top of that things were starting to look up
________________________________________

“Wake up brother mine we are going to be late.” Rei nudged her brother awake

Shinji opened his eyes seeing Rei there and hearing his alarm going off that he had slept through. Hitting the offending clock that was on the floor next to his futon it finally stopped. Shinji’s body started going through the morning start up as he tried his best to get his senses as he sat up.

“How long have I got till we are late?” Shinji asked

“Only ten minutes.” Rei replied quietly

“Give me twenty I need a shower and I’ll still get us to school on time.” Shinji replied

“How are you going to do that there is no way we can make it.” Rei replied in her soft voice

“Trust me.” Shinji replied with a smile as he grabbed a towel and headed for the shower.

Twenty minutes later the twins were out the door ready for school “So how are you going to get us to class in ten minutes considering it’s a twenty minute walk?” Rei asked

Shinji headed for the ute and pulled the keys out of his pocket holding them up for Rei to see.

“Very nice when did you get this?” she asked

“Last night.” Shinji replied getting in the ute and unlocking Rei’s door for her

Shinji fired the ute up and took off for school, he wasn’t setting any land speed records like Misato but it was still spirited driving that got them to school with a couple of minutes to spare.

The students looked on with envy and jealously as Shinji parked the ute and he and Rei got out. Those who didn’t know they were family thought they were dating as everyone looked on in awe. Students never drove their own cars to school.

They settled into the school day easily in the knowledge that there were no tests at Nerv tonight. Lunch was enjoyable as the four friends sat outside Toji and Rei shared their lunches sitting next to each other at a table. Shinji and Hikari sat side by side rubbing shoulders under a tree next Hikari was leaning into him a little.

“What are you doing tonight?” She asked her boyfriend

“Nothing Misato has us on down time until further notice so there are no tests at Nerv yet” Shinji replied

“Do you want to come around for dinner?” Hikari asked

“I’d like that.” Shinji replied with a smile

“Great what if Toji and Rei come?” Hikari asked

“Sure ask them if you want to.” Shinji replied

“Hey Rei... Do you and Toji want to come over for dinner tonight?” Hikari asked

“What’s for dinner?” Toji replied with a question of his own “Owe... What was that for?” He asked his girlfriend after she play punched him in the arm with a smile.

“Don’t ask questions like that just say yes.” Rei replied with a cute smile “We’d love to.” Rei replied for both of them.

Shinji chuckled to himself at the exchange, if you had have told him this would be normal for him when he first came to Tokyo-3 he would have laughed but it was nice even if Kensuke didn’t make it and Asuka was in a coma. ‘Kensuke was unlucky and Asuka was stupid she never should have been there’ He corrected his thoughts.

“You ok?” Hikari whispered in his ear noticing he had been spacing out longer than usual

“Yeah I’m ok... Just thinking about Kensuke and Asuka.” Shinji replied

“I know what happened with them and it’s not your fault, don’t weigh yourself down with all that.” Hikari replied with a smile.

“I won’t.” Shinji replied

“You know I’m here for you whatever you need.” Hikari replied

“Yeah I know and thanks.” Shinji replied giving Hikari a kiss on the cheek in a small show of affection.

Hikari blushed a little and Rei caught the whole thing and smiled a little

“What are you smiling at?” Toji asked between mouthfuls of food

Rei indicated by leaning her head in the direction of Shinji and Hikari

“Huh I’m glad he’s happy I honestly never thought I’d see the day though.” Toji commented

“Yes this is definitely the happiest I have seen him ever.” Rei added

The bell rang bringing an end to a pleasant lunch break and the four students headed back to class.
________________________________________

Class continued like normal for the rest of the day. Rei and Shinji had clean up duty which worked since Hikari and Toji could go to Hikari’s place and Shinji and Rei could follow them in his ute once they were finished.

Shinji parked the ute outside Hikari’s place and killed the engine

“You look a lot happier these days.” Rei commented

“I feel it, thanks for your help.” Shinji replied

“It’s good to see you happy, you really like Hikari don’t you.” Rei replied

Shinji paused for a moment again Rei knew what he was thinking before he did “Yeah I do, I guess I’m just making the most of this down time Misato has given us.” Shinji replied

Rei smiled at that when Shinji’s phone started ringing

“Hello.” Shinji answered

“Shinji how are you going?” It was Ryoji

“I’m ok, more importantly how are you?” Shinji replied

“I’m ok just laying low I spoke to Misato thanks for everything.” Ryoji replied

“No problem everything has been contained on this end.” Shinji replied

“No problem I have to lay low but I’ll be in touch look after yourself and call me if you ever need anything.” Ryoji replied

“I will watch your back.” Shinji replied and the line went dead

Rei had a look on her face asking who that was

“Ryoji he’s awake and ok.” Shinji replied

“What does that mean for you now? More missions?” Rei asked

“No he has to lay low till everything is over, we just have to stop the angels and then the commander I’ve no idea how to get to Seele.” Shinji replied

“Maybe Misato will find that out for you.” Rei pondered

“I hope so.” Shinji replied

Rei nodded at that “I believe you better not keep your girlfriend waiting.” Rei added motioning to the door

Shinji nodded as they both got out of the ute and headed to Hikari’s house and Shinji knocked on the front door

“Hiaya Shinji come on in. Hi Rei.” Nozomi answered the door letting the twins in

Nozomi lead them to the lounge room where Toji was watching TV. Rei sat down next to Toji giving him a kiss on the cheek to greet him.

“You guys were quick what is Shinji the fastest driver in the land?” He asked with a grin.

“No that would be Misato.” Shinji replied smirking “Where is Hikari?”

“She’s in the kitchen making dinner.” Toji replied

Shinji headed into the kitchen and found Hikari standing in front of the stove cooking sneaking up behind her he wrapped his arms around her before giving her a soft kiss on the neck “Need a hand?” he asked

“It’s ok I’m almost finished.” Hikari replied

Leaning back against the counter Shinji propped himself up with his hands as he watched Hikari work. She was only in her school uniform but it was the prettiest thing he had seen. The two pig tails her was done up in the way her uniform accentuated her good looks, the sway of her backside and the swish of her skirt as she moved around the kitchen, all of it mesmerised Shinji.

“I’m almost ready can you poor me some drinks?” Hikari asked a smile and a pink tinge gracing her face as she realised where Shinji had been looking

“Sure” Shinji replied pulling enough glasses from the cupboard for the five of them and filling them with juice.

Hikari served dinner and with Shinji’s help put it all on the table before calling everyone in. Dinner was a nice lemon chicken dish with noodles and vegetables served separately that everyone enjoyed immensely even by Rei, the blue haired pilot making a note to get the recipe off Hikari later on.

Toji and Rei were snuggling up on the lounge watching a movie with Nozomi. Only a few production companies had survived second impact two of them being Disney and Pixar and Nozomi was watching one of their films about a talking red race car while Shinji and Hikari washed up.

Shinji was washing while Hikari was drying when Shinji’s phone started ringing, it was mirrored by Rei’s phone ringing from the lounge room and Shinji had a thought of dread as he knew what was coming.

“Hikari can you grab that for me? It’s in my pocket” Shinji asked his girlfriend
Hikari was happy to oblige leaning into her boyfriend as she fished his phone out of his pocket

“Shinji’s phone Hikari speaking” Hikari answered

“Hi Hikari its Misato can you put Shinji on?” Misato replied

“Misato.” Hikari replied as she held Shinji’s phone to his ear

“Hi Misato.” Shinji replied

“Where are you at?” Misato asked

“I had dinner at Hikari’s with Rei and Toji.” Shinji replied

“We’ve detected the next angel I’m sending a car now.” Misato replied

Time slowed down for Shinji with that statement as he realised it was time to go back to work.

“Don’t worry about the car I’ve still got the ute. I’ll bring Rei have the express elevator ready.” Shinji replied with a grin

“Ok see you soon.” Misato replied and the line went dead

“An angel?” Hikari asked as she held onto Shinji’s phone

“Yeah I’m sorry I have to go.” Shinji replied

Hikari closed the gap between them kissing Shinji with everything she had. Shinji returned
the kiss with just as much passion not even bothering to dry his hands as one hand clasped the back of Hikari’s neck the other pressing the small of her back as he held his girlfriend close letting all his emotions for her bleed into the kiss. Hikari let out a small gasp as the wet hands pressed against her but she revelled in the closeness of Shinji’s hold as she savoured every moment of the kiss that had to finish eventually and the teens parted.

“Be safe.” Hikari instructed

“Always. Get to your shelter.” Shinji replied with a smile

Walking into the lounge room Shinji and Hikari found Toji and Rei breaking from a kiss “I love you Rei be careful.” Toji whispered to his blue haired girlfriend

“I will you too.” Rei replied quietly as her cheeks turned pink

Toji looked across at Shinji “Look after her for me.”

“I will.” Shinji replied as they all headed out to Shinji’s car with Nozomi in tow.
The twins hopped into the ute and Shinji started the engine

“What’s going on?” Nozomi asked Shinji

“They have to go to work.” Hikari replied

Shinji gunned the engine leaving two thick black marks on the road as the tyres squealed in protest

“I didn’t get to say bye to either of them.” Nozomi replied

“You can tell him when he gets back.” Hikari replied picking up her little sister and giving her a hug

“What now?” Toji asked, then as if to reply sirens around the city started going off

“I guess we head to a shelter.” Hikari replied as she started to worry about her boyfriend and his sister
________________________________________

Shinji speed towards the centre of Tokyo-3 the trip was easy with only abandoned cars left on the road. The city had by now become very efficient at evacuating to shelters.

“Are you worried about this angel?” Shinji asked his sister as he drifted the ute through a corner and buried the accelerator as they hurtled down the next street towards their access point.

“Yes brother mine I am” Rei replied quietly

She had surprised herself with the realisation once her brother had asked her but didn’t know why now out of all the angels she would start worrying now

“It bothers me I’ve never had this feeling before.” Rei added

“It’s Toji…” Shinji replied “Don’t worry I feel the same because of Hikari.” he added never taking his eyes off the road

“How do you know?” Rei asked quietly

“We are twins and somehow things have taken a similar path for us, before everyone in danger was just a number in all the people we protect, now we have someone we care a great deal for.” Shinji replied

“How do you know this is what is bothering me?” Rei asked

“It was a guess but this is what has been keeping me up at night since Hikari and I got serious.” Shinji replied

Rei smiled at that she knew exactly what her brother meant but he didn’t know it he was just guessing it was nice though.

“Thank you.” Rei replied to her brother with a smile as he took another corner a lot faster than he should have and they continued their journey towards Nerv “What are you going to do about it brother mine?”

“What about sister mine?” Shinji replied missing something

“The worry.” Rei clarified quietly

“Use it to make sure I finish this war.” Shinji replied with a steel in his eye that seemed to put Rei at ease

Pulling up at the gate for the express elevator the large metal doors opened to reveal the waiting car. Shinji accelerated hard onto the empty car bring the ute to a harsh stop on the markers on the carriage and the clamps secured the ute to the carriage and the train started its journey down to the geo-front.
________________________________________

Once they had suited up they stood before Misato getting a mission brief.

“The angel is moving slow enough for us to wait for the evacuation to the shelters to complete before we launch you. Rei you’re on point, Shinji you’re down here on backup. We haven’t got any knowledge of this angels abilities so be careful.”

“Why can’t I launch with Rei? Two on one are better odds.” Shinji asked

“That’s commands decision and I’m against it, don’t worry I haven’t forgotten my promise.” Misato replied with a wink.

A moment of silence started to stretch out as the twins looked at the monitor taking in all of the target information.

“Any questions?” Misato asked

Both pilots shook their heads in the negative

“Alright go get loaded, good hunting.” Misato ordered

“Yes ma’am” The twins replied together

“What’s this about your promise Misato” Ritsuko asked from the side

“Nothing Rits just a personal joke” Misato replied evasively as the two women headed for the bridge
________________________________________

“The evacuation is complete.” Shigeru reported

“Unit-01 and -00 are ready on launch rails 4 and 5.” Maya reported

“No changes from the target its pattern continues to cycle through orange and blue.” Makoto added

“What do the Magi report?” Misato asked

“The Magi are withholding judgment.” Maya replied

“Launch Unit-00 to access hatch 5.” Misato ordered as she opened a com channel

“Ready Rei?” Misato asked

“Yes ma’am.” Rei replied quietly

“Evangelion Unit-00 Launch!” Misato ordered

The blue Eva rocketed up the launch rails Rei grimacing all the way as she hit the surface with a crack the sounds echoing off the empty buildings and streets in the city.

Grabbing a positron rifle from the weapons cache that was next to her launch position Rei turned and headed towards the angel taking up a position in a forest where she should be able to intercept

“All the target data has just been sent to your screens continue to observe it” Misato informed her pilots

“Unit-01 requesting permission to launch?” Shinji requested

“Denied Unit-01 is to be used in an emergency only.” Commander Ikari replied coldly

“Fuck.” Shinji muttered under his breath

“Watch your language on com Pilot Ikari.” Ritsuko replied

‘Not quietly enough’ Shinji thought to himself

“Are you ok brother mine?” Rei asked as she opened a private channel with her brother

“I’m fine I just hate sitting down here.” Shinji replied

“I’m sure Misato will launch you as soon as she can?” Rei replied

“Just be careful up there sister mine.” Shinji replied

Rei got to her intercept position and had Unit-00 crouching with the rifle at the ready

“Unit-00 in position.” Rei reported

The angel continued its slow advance on Tokyo-3

“The target is holding its course still no changes.” Makoto reported

“We’ve just piped all the target information to you both observe the angel and look for any weaknesses” Misato reported

“Unit-01 requesting permission to launch I can’t collect target data down here.” Shinji asked

“Granted launch Unit-01 to hatch 6 provide cover for Rei.”

“Delay that.” Commander Ikari ordered

“But sir we need to intercept the angel.” Misato countered

“You have Unit-00.” Commander Ikari replied

“Unit-01 stand by.” Misato ordered “Rei keep observing the angel be on your toes.” Misato advised

“We are certain the angel can assume other forms.” Ritsuko added

“It’s coming.” Rei whispered

The angel stopped rotating and its form changed from a double helix to a solid object the ring broke off forming a long solid coil that shot straight at Unit-00.

“Rei evasive actions.” Misato ordered

“There isn’t enough time.” Makoto reported

Rei raised her A.T Field but the angel speared straight through it and Unit-00’s abdomen. Unit-00 collapsed to the ground as little ridges started spreading from the entry point. Rei picked up the rifle and fired three rounds at the angel point blank.

“It’s no good the angel isn’t even harmed by the rounds.” Shigeru reported

“Unit-01 emergency override launch now.” Misato ordered hitting a big red button on her console

“Bio contamination the angel is trying to fuse with Unit-00.” Maya reported

Rei cried out in pain her body contorting in Unit-00’s entry plug the sounds chilled Shinji to the bone.

“Rei.... Rei hold on.” Shinji’s voice filled Unit-00’s entry plug “I’m coming just hold on.” he pleaded

The pain was immense for Rei as her vision blurred she could see she was looking at herself

‘What is this? Are you the angel?’ Rei asked

‘Don’t you want to become one with me?’ the angel asked

‘No, I am me. Not you’ Rei replied

‘But you shall it’s too late. Let me share my heart with you. Let me share this feeling with you.’ The angel replied as the ripples spread across Rei’s body covering it

‘It’s never too late’ Rei replied as Shinji’s voice broke through the vision “Hold on Rei.”
Rei’s vision cleared the pain was immense as she struggled with the angel.

‘You think your brother can save you from me’ the angel’s voice rang out in Rei’s head
Unit-01 hit the surface with a loud crack. Night had fallen over Tokyo-3 the dominant light had come from the glowing white angel and Unit-01’s white hot eyes. They focused on the angel as the free end of the angel rocketed towards Unit-01.

Shinji side stepped the angel as it raced past Unit-01 and arced around for another attack
“Blue/White pattern detected.” Shigeru reported

Unit-01 started racing towards Unit-00 ripping up dirt as it went Blue/White hexagonal imprints being left in the dirt the trails flowing off the shoulder pylons and trailing edges of Unit-01 as it raced to Unit-00 rescue.

Unit-01’s hands glowed bright blue as it gripped the angel.

“Rei I hope this works” Shinji called out as he activated the progressive knife and drove it into the side of the angel.

“Ahhhhhhhhh.” Rei cried out in pain from the blow

Shinji dropped the knife cold at the realisation of what happened ‘The angel’ Shinji realised what was happening

“I’m sorry sister mine this is going to hurt just hold on.” Shinji pleaded with Rei

Gripping the angel Unit-01 put it foot on Unit-00’s chest and pulled with all its strength as it started pulling the angel from Unit-00.

“Arraaghh.” Rei whimpered as she felt the angel being pulled out of her.

The angel tried everything it could to hold onto its host but Unit-01 was not to be denied as the angel finally came out and Unit-00 collapsed into a heap on the ground.

“Rei are you ok?...... Come on sister please be ok.” Shinji begged

“I’m just a little shaken but I’m ok” Rei replied as she hauled Unit-00 to its feet

Unit-01 in perfect synchronisation with its pilot turned its attention to the angel still holding one end it drove it into the ground and quickly picked up the progressive knife and drove it through the angel pinning it to the ground. The angel screamed out in pain as Unit-01 was bathed in bright green angel blood.

The other end of the angel recovered from the attack and spun around and dove at Unit-01 as the purple war machine rose its hand the A.T Field expanding out as the angel collided with it as a blue and white hexagonal wall lit up protecting Unit-01 and -00. Unit-01 released its hold on the angel leaving it all up to the progressive knife as it faced the angel that had stopped ramming the A.T Field as Eva and angel squared off.

Shinji dropped his A.T Field and the angel dove at Unit-01 again but it caught the angel in its hands that glowed blue and white. The battle was eerie to watch from the bridge. They could see everything but the flashes of A.T Field and the glowing of the angel and Eva were adding to the spectacle.

“Oh my god.” Shigeru screamed “Unit-01’s A.T Field is the strongest ever recorded its more than the fourteenth angel.”

“Shinji what are you doing?” Ritsuko cried out

“A.T Field max power.” Shinji struggled to reply

Unit-01 gripped the angel in its left hand the head trying to wiggle free of the death grip it was in. The right palm faced the front of the angel and a little blue pulse shot out of the hand and passed into the angel as it travelled down its body. The angel screaming in pain as this happened.

“What was that?” Misato asked the bridge picking up the little blue and white flash.

“Unit-01’s A.T Field passed into the angel this isn’t even theoretically possible.” Maya replied

“Shinji’s synch ratio is at 399%” she added a moment later

Shinji could see it all on his display. Such was his sync and control with Unit-01 those five little blips representing the cores in the angel illuminated as his A.T Field passed through the angel. Unit-01 smashed the angel into the ground for a second time and drew its second progressive knife. The angel seemed to know what was coming and doubled its efforts to free itself but it was to no avail. Unit-01’s progressive knife cut straight through its body and into its first core which started to glow white hot. The knife quickly moved through to the second third and fourth core.

“There is a large energy build up inside the target.” Shigeru reported

“Shinji be carefu.l” Misato ordered

Shinji didn’t hear any of this, this thing had hurt his sister and come to destroy everything he cared about he was going to kill it.

The five cores in the angel melded into one in a last ditch effort to keep the angel alive. The progressive knife slammed into the core and struggled to cut into it. Unit-00 appeared on the opposite side of Unit-01 progressive knife in hand and drilled the knife into the glowing white angel spewing more green blood all over the Evas and the country side.

The angel surged again and was able to slide its body through Unit-01’s hands as the two knives sliced into the core. With its head free it reared back and bit the shoulder of Unit-01 before exploding in a massive white fire ball that turned night into day.

“Arraagghhh!!” Shinji cried out as Unit-01 was bitten.

The exploding angel causing a massive reaction in Unit-01 as an explosion from the shoulder ruptured an armour plate leaving a crater in the back of the joint. Unit-00 helped Unit-01 to its feet as the green country side had been scorched black in the massive explosion. Unit-01 was bleeding heavily from its shoulder the same as its pilot was.

“Shinji Rei come in.” Misato’s voice sounded over com

There was a lot of smoke and haze around from the explosion plus the fact that it was night made it hard to see what was going on from the monitors on the bridge

“Switch Sat-1 to Infra Red.” Misato ordered trying to get more visibility

“Done!” Makoto replied

The image showed the two evas walking together and the angel dead on the ground a large portion of it presumably the head was missing.

“This is Unit-00 I’m ok.” Rei replied

“Unit-01 checking in.” Shinji added “All systems functional.”

“Good work you guys use Platform A to return to the cages.” Misato ordered

“Yes ma’am.” The twins replied in unison

The two Eva’s boarded the large platform and Unit-00 hit an Eva sized button to activate the lift and the slow descent from the surface into the cages began. The two evas docked in their respective cages and were secured Unit-01 still bleeding from the shoulder injury it sustained.

Rei hopped out of the entry plug and crossed the catwalk as she saw her brother getting out of Unit-01. Shinji collapsed to the ground spewing LCL from his lungs. Rei ran the rest of the distance.

“Shinji!!” She called out as he fell to his side.

“Say something brother mine.” Rei pleaded

Looking a lot worse for wear and very groggy the reply was barely audible

“Where am I?” Shinji struggled to get out.
________________________________________

To Be Continued.