Title: Second Chance Author Anthony Dantuono E-mail Guyerv4@prodigy.net Disclaimer: Evangelion is the property of Gainix. The characters are used without permission Author notes: This story takes place about what might have happened after Kaoru’s death If SEELE and NERV didn’t have other plans But answer me a question Why am I writing this? --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NERV Just after the defeat of the Final angel Under a stairway Shinji sits, his mind echoing a single thought Shinji knew the answer but it didn’t make him feel any better. Kaoru had been the only one who had really understood him, now his best friend was dead. With Touji and Kensuke gone, Asuka in a comma and being unable to speak to Rei, he was truly alone now. Shinji hated this lonely feeling, that’s how Huyga found him “Shinji?” asked Huyga Shinji looked up at the Lt. who was also a friend “The Commander wants to see you” aid Hyuga “I don’t want to see him” said Shinji bitterly “I’m sorry Shinji, you don’t have a choice” said Huyga Grudgingly Shinji stood up and followed the older man to where his father stood at his usually post near the Magi. There, was also Rei, Misato Ritsuko, Maya and Aoba, all gathered to hear what the Commander had to say “I thought Ritsuko was under arrest” Shinji whispered to Huyga “Now that the war is over, Commander Ikari relieved her from lock down” explained Huyga Commander Ikari drew himself up to his full height, looking like a tyrant looking down at his subjects. He spoke like he was a god talking to lowly beings. “It had been determined that this Angel was the finally one” said Ikari “He was also my friend” whispered Shinji “Now that we have no more angels, there is no longer a need for the Evas or their pilots.” continued Ikari. “What?” shouted Misato Shinji looked up at his father a shiver ran up his spine, he was scared of what his father was about to say. “Therefore, you are to be sent back to where you came from,” “WHAT?” exclaimed Shinji He stared with hatred at his father “Why are you doing this?” he demanded Commander Ikari, smirked “Because I no longer have a use for you. You or the other pilots, so you will be sent back to where you came from” Something snapped within Shinji. He knocked into Huyga and stole Huyga’s gun, the people present gasped as Shinji aimed the weapon directly at his father Commander Ikari watched his son curiously, wondering what he would do next. “DAMN YOU!” shouted Shinji “You brought us here in the first place. You put us through hell itself and now you plan to toss us away like garbage? You cold hearted bastasrd!” Shinji’s hand was shaking so bad it was hard for him to hold the gun steady, tears ran down his check. Ritsuko was the first person to find her voice “Shinji, please.” Shinji swung and pointed the gun at Ritsuko “Shut up! You don’t care either, All you see us as is weapons. Weapons you can use to save your own lives. Misato and Kaji are the only one who treated us like humans.” Misato spoke up “Shinji, please put the gun down” Shinji had a furious look on his face “Why?” he asked, “Why shouldn’t I kill her?” “Shinji please.” said Misato Shinji looked at Misato. Something in her voice, in her face, forced him to lower the gun and return it to Huyga. “You will leave Tokyo-3 within one week.” ordered Commander Ikari A few days later found Shinji standing in front a train station Misato was standing next to him. “Rei will remain here in Tokyo-3 and Asuka will be heading back to Germany” said Misato “But Asuka’s still in a comma” said Shinji “She will be cared for in a hospital there” said Misato The train pulled up and the doors opened. “Looks like this is it” said Misato Shinji stared up into the face of the woman who had meant so much to him. Misato had filled the role of commander officer, roommate, girlfriend, sister and more. Shinji’s feelings for Asuka and Rei were mixed but those for Misato were always clear. “Misato, I’m sorry” Shinji whispered Misato forced a smile, “Don’t be, it’s not your fault. But you have to go” “Misato” Shinji began again sadly “Shhh’ said Misato as she drew Shinji to her for one last hug. When their embrace broke, Shinji stepped aboard the train. “Goodbye Misato” said Shinji The door shut, closing Shinji away from the only real family he had ever known. He never saw the stream of tears flowing from Misato’s eyes. Three years past. They say time heals all wounds. Some wounds go deeper and remain open even after years have past. Shinji walked alone down the sidewalk. His school bag slung over his shoulder. He was now seventeen and still alone. A year ago he was thrown out of his teacher home and lived in his own apartment. Removing a key from his pocket he opened the door to his apartment. The apartment was sparsely furnished and very clean. Shinji was always cleaning ,it helped to occupy his thoughts. Shinji walked into his bedroom and sat down at his desk. The desk held three pictures One of Asuka, one of Rei, and one of Misato. Shinji spent many hours of his time staring at these picture with tears in his eyes and a unending sadness deep in his soul. The tears flowed easily, they always did. The pictures, of the three people he love the most in all the world, more than his own father. His father. Just thinking about him turned Shinji’s sadness to anger. His damned father, who called him to Tokyo-3 out of the blue, put him through another type of hell then tossed him away like a dead battery. The only good that had come from his stay in Tokyo-3 was living with Misato and Asuka. It had been the happiest time of this life. Until Kaoru came. Even three years later the memory of Kaoru’s death still echoed in his mind. Shinji would wake up at night screaming. In his nightmare he saw the day Kaoru died, but sometimes Kaoru would be replaced by Asuka, Rei or Misato. Shinji was quickly approaching the brink on madness. If this situation stayed the same Shinji would eventually have gone insane from the never ending heartache. However, Fate had a different idea. A knocked at the door drew Shinji’s interest from his world of sadness. Walking slowly from his room he crossed the small apartment to the door. He noticed an envelope had been pushed under the door. He was curious, Shinji opened the door and peered into the hallway, seeing no one he closed the door and picked up the envelope. It wasn’t part of the mail system, there was no return address. After opening the letter, Shinji read it and what he read sent a surge of emotions through him. It read “Pilot Ikari, due to circumstances in Tokyo-3 and by order of Commander Ikari you are begin asked to return to Tokyo-3 and resume you status as the pilot of Evangelion Unit 01.” Included with the letter was a one-way train ticket “If you accept then be prepared to leave with in one week using the train ticket included” The letter listed the place where he would be living. The words that stuck in Shinji’s mind were “By order of Commander Ikari” Shinji spoke to himself angrily “Who does that bastrad think he is ordering me to do anything.” It would serve his father right if Shinji told him to go to hell His rage was interrupted when something else struck him The address! He looked at the address a second time, more carefully The address was familiar then it hit him. “Misato’s!” Shinji gasped This was a chance he had wanted. Even if he would have to pilot Eva-01 he would be back with Misato. If they were calling him back then they might call Asuka back too. If they were to pilot again that means seeing Rei again. The sadness that had plagued him for the last three years was being to be replaced by hope. “I have a second chance” Shinji whispered under his breath The next few days moved like a whirlwind, Shinji worked to collect everything he owned Packing them and getting ready to leave. The train ride back to Tokyo-3 seemed to Shinji to last another three years. When the doors of the train finally opened at the Tokyo-3 station Shinji practically ran out. There at the station, instead of Misato was two men dressed in black. “Where is Major Katsuragi?” demanded Shinji “She is at home. You are to be taken to the apartment you once shared.” said one of the men. The men loaded the car and drove Shinji to the apartment. “So what has been going on? Why was I called back?” asked Shinji “We are not at liberty to say” said one of the men “Major Katsuragi will have to tell you herself” When Shinji finally arrived at the apartment his bags were set down outside the door. The men in black disappeared. Leaving Shinji alone to face Misato. Shinji stood there for a few minutes, then slowly he reached out and pressed the doorbell. Misato’s voce called out “Coming” The door opened and there was Misato, dressed in her typical fashion as if she knew it was Shinji ringing the bell “Yes?” she asked “Misato, it’s me” said Shinji quietly “Shinji” said Misato more to herself than to him “SHINJI!” Misato shouted joyfully. Misato grabbed Shinji and hugged him tightly Having grown in the last few years his face was no longer at the same height as Misato’s bust Shinji hugged Misato back just a tightly. Tears of joy flowed freely down each of their faces. Shinji whispered, “I’m, I’m home” Misato heard him and whispered back, “Welcome home” The hug last several minutes When they broke Misato helped Shinji move his stuff back into his old room The sign was still there, Misato had never moved it. “You’ve grown quite a bit Shinji” said Misato “Maybe you not too young for me this time” For the first time in the last few years Shinji smiled “Don’t forget you’re still the ‘older’ woman. Ritsuko might frown on it” Misato looked at him, “Has Ritsuko’s disapproval every stopped me before” “True, but I doubt you’ll do anything Misato” said Shinji “Oh? And what makes you so sure?” asked Misato “Because I know you. You’re a bit of a tease” said Shinji “Maybe I won’t be such a tease time” said Misato “Time will tell, won’t it Misato” said Shinji “So where’s PenPen?” “He’s in his fridge” said Misato “Probably sleeping, he’s missed you too.” “I didn’t think he even noticed” said Shinji “PenPen notices more things than you realize” said Misato Shinji remembered the time Asuka kissed him to kill time, He had heard the freezer open. So PenPen must have walked right between them. Asuka! Shinji’s smile drooped a little as he remembered her. “So Misato, am I the only one called back to active duty” Shinji asked, trying his best to keep the anxiousness out of his voice. However Misato was able to read between the lines to see Shinji’s true question Smiling she said, ‘You mean are you going to join up with Asuka and Rei again?” Shinji’s face turned red Misato laughed at his embarrassment “Don’t be embraced Shinji. It just shows how much you care about them. Those girls need that. And to answer your question yes You will be teaming with Rei and Asuka again. Rei is already here and Asuka will arrive tomorrow.” Shinji was full of mixed emotions. He could see Rei now and Asuka would be here tomorrow. But he would be caught in the crossfire between those to again. “I thought Asuka was in the hospital.” said Shinji “She was, but about a year ago she started getting better” said Misato “no one knows how but she just started getting better, showing her old personality.” Shinji felt both relief and worry. Asuka was back to her old self so things would be back to normal. Did that mean her competitive streak would be as strong as ever? How would she feel about Shinji after all this time? Hoping to get off the subject, Shinji asked a new question “Why have we been brought back?” Misato looked at him, a line of worry was visible. “I think it’s best to tell you and Asuka together” A shiver ran down Shinji’s spine, were they being used again? “How has Rei been?” asked Shinji Misato smiled, ‘Why don’t you go see her. I’m sure you two have a lot of catching up to do” Shinji said, “Are you sure it’s okay?” “Go one, I’m sure she’ll be glad to see you, and after all we have all night to get reacquainted” said Misato in a tone that suggested more than her words did. “Something’s never changed” muttered Shinji “Come on, its been three years since I’ve been able to tease you Shinji” said Misato still smiling “So you admit to teasing me” said Shinji his own smile returning “I knew you weren’t going to do anything” “You’ll know for sure later, won’t you” said Misato Shinji walked down the street too Rei apartment. As he walked he glanced at the surrounding city. It was a marvel how they had rebuilt the city in just three years. Damage done by Eva/Angel battles was repaired. Arriving at Rei’s apartment he saw that improvements had been done to this building as well. It no longer looked condemned and actually looked livable. Climbing the stairs to Rei’s apartment Shinji remembered the time her brought Rei’s ID card to her and ended up in an embarrassing position. He hoped that wouldn’t happen this time or did he? From experience Shinji knew it was pointless to knock or ring the bell, he figured it best to just walk in. Before talking the step over the threshold, a memory surfaced. He remembered three years ago, when Ritsuko had shown him the tank of Rei clones Ritsuko had said they were just shells, nothing more. That experience had scared him. He had shyed away from Rei after that, a choice he regretted after being forced to leave. “Ayanami?” called Shinji He moved slowly through apartment. While in the bathroom he heard the door open “Ayanami?” called Shinji as he moved back to the main room. There in the doorway was Rei Ayanami. Her hair was just below shoulder length, still blue. She had grown quite a bit and was just a few inches short than Shinji. Her figure had also developed more. Shinji just started at the blue haired girl in front of him. Shinji heard Rei gasp as she saw him. Even in the pale light of the room Shinji could see her eyes grow wide with surprise. “Ikari?” asked Rei, “Yes Rei, it’s me, I’m back.” said Shinji. Rei walked over to Shinji and placed her arms around him. “Rei? what are you...” began Shinji The memory of the clone tank flooded his mind “Is this not how you greet some one you haven’t seen in al long time?” asked Rei innocently Her words, her tone, reminded Shinji of why he was here. Given a second chance. Even if that chance was given too him by the man he hated most in all the world, he would not waste this chance Shinji smiled and hugged Rei back. “Yes Rei, it is. If you really missed the person” “Did you miss me Ikari?” asked Rei “Of course I did, and please. Call me Shinji” said Shinji “Thank you, Shinji.” said Rei Shinji stayed at Rei’s for an hour taking with her about the past few years. It seems Rei was also kept in the dark about why they were back on active duty. As he left the apartment Shinji seemed to have a spring in his step. He hadn’t felt this good in years. For the first time in three years feelings of hope and joy filled him. The sadness and anger of the past years seemed to disappear, whatever his dammed father had planned Shinji was glad just to be back. What Shinji didn’t know, as that his departure was observed. From her apartment Rei watched Shinji walk down the street. A memory from her second body echoed in her mind. Just before the loss of her second body she had said she wanted to “be one with Ikari” Afterward she never had the chance. Rei had never know regret before but these last few years she regretted not getting close to Shinji. Now that he had returned she had a second chance. A chance to be with Shinji. But there was another problem, the Second Child. If Shinji was called back, it would be certain that she was coming back too. Rei knew deep down the Second Child cared for Shinji as much as she did. She knew there was going to be a contest between the them. A contest with Shinji’s heart the ultimate prize. While in the past Rei had no use for contests, she was not about to let the Second Child win this one. Rei would do whatever she had to, so she could win Shinji and his love. That night Shinji lay in his old bed. Tomorrow Asuka would be back, then maybe things would be back to like they were. While tomorrow brought the return of the Second Child it also brought the reason they were back. Shinji’s mind raced, what did his damn father have planned for them and would the survive? Whatever it was Shinji was sure, it wouldn’t be good. Noon The Next day Shinji paced nervously as Misato watched. “Shinji, your gonna wear a hole in the rug.” she warned. “Sorry Misato I can’t help it. Asuka will be here any minute” said Shinji “Are you that excited to see her?” teased Misato Before Shinji could answer the doorbell rang. “Stay there, I’ll get it” said Misato. Misato moved to open the door. Shinji ducked out of site. He heard a familiar voice “Guten Morgen, Misato” “Asuka, it’s good to see you again” said Misato “I see your in good health” The voices drew nearer “Of course I am, nothing can keep me out of action.” boasted Asuka AS the walked into the living room, Shinji reviled himself “Hello Asuka, good to see you again” Asuka froze in mid-stride “Shinji?” Shinji look over Asuka. Her hair was kept at the same length Still the beautiful fiery red, it always has been. Her eyes as blue as the deepest ocean. About the same height as Rei was now and her figure too, had grown noticeable Before he could stop himself, Shinji found himself hugging Asuka. “Let me go you pervert.” said Asuka Shinji turned red as he faced the new arrival, “Sorry Asuka, it’s just, I missed you” Asuka smiled, “Of course you missed me, I am the most beautiful girl you’ve ever met.” Shinji smiled too, “Like I said Misato, something never change.” The doorbell rang again, Misato ran to answer it. “So how have you been Shinji?” asked Asuka “Better, now that I’m back here” said Shinji. “Guys, look whose here” called Misato as she lead Rei into the room. Shinji could feel his smile sink, with both of them here, would there be a war? “Well, well, Wonder Girl. I see you still around” said Asuka, but as nastily as she used to “Hello Shoryu, I see you have returned too” said Rei “That’s right. They knew you and Shinji here couldn’t handle things by yourself, so they called be back” boasted Asuka. Shinji saw this opportunity to prevent any tension before it started. “So Misato, will you finally tell us, why we’re here?” asked Shinji When every one was seated Misato explained. “You were brought back, for you protection and ours. You see, it seems in the last three years a cult has emerged. This cult worshipped the Angels you guys defeated. They have sworn revenge against NERV and you three in general. While here in Tokyo-3 you guys are safe from the cult. However recently this cult has acquired some very big battle machines. They plan to destroy NERV and Tokyo-3 using them. Problem is this things are too powerful for conventional weapons so the Commander ordered the Evas out of cryo-storage and for you to return” “So that’s it” said Shinji “Yep, say, why don’t I make some snacks for us, then we can talk about the last few years.” said Misato Misato walked to the kitchen. Not wanting to be caught in the cross fire between the two girls Shinji said, “I’ll give you a hand Misato” He followed her into the kitchen. This left Asuka and Rei alone in the living room. “So you’re still here, Rei” said Asuka “Where was I suppose to go” asked Rei “So will you be challenging me?” asked Asuka “I don’t know what you mean.’ said Rei “Like hell you don’t, You know very well what I mean” said Asuka “You mean Shinji” said Rei “Of course I mean Shinji” said Asuka, keeping her voice low so that neither Misato nor the boy in question would hear her. “So I repeat, do you think you can beat me?” asked Asuka “You mean, am I going to let you have Shinji without a fight? No I will not” said Rei “You want to fight for Shinji?” asked Asuka “Is there any other way?” asked Rei “ I warn you this isn’t like last time. This time, proving my superiority isn’t my main priority, wining Shinji is.” said Asuka “Do you feel you can?” asked Rei “Only time will tell, won’t it Wonder girl” said Asuka. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Somewhere deep in NERV there is a familiar office. It is in this office, the next part of our tale unfolds. There are three people in this office. Commander Ikari, Commander Fuyutsuki and Dr. Akagi. Ritsuko spoke first, “All the children have returned” “Good,” said Ikari “Do we have any data on the cult?” Ikari’s old professor spoke, “Our mole reports they will attack the city in three days,” Ikari spoke again, “Can our mole prevent it?” “No,” said Fuyutsuki “Then the pilots must do it” said Ikari. “Will the Evas be ready in time?” “We can have the Eva functional and ready within forty-eight hours” said Dr. Akagi. “I have scheduled a sync test for late tomorrow.” Fuyutsuki spoke up, “How will the last few years affect the pilots ability to control the Evas?” “I won’t know for sure until the test. “ said Ritsuko “A few hours in the simulator will probably return their level back to their original state.” “Can you be sure?” asked Nerv’s sub-commander “86% sure” said Ritsuko “Is that our best projection?” asked Commander Ikari “Yes Commander.” said Ritsuko “Proceed Dr. Akagi” said Ikari “Thank you Commander” said Ritsuko When Ritsuko had left the room the Commaders continued to speak, “We didn’t fore-see this.” said Fuyutsuki “We should have, this was almost guarantee to happen.” said Ikari “For everything that happens someone, somewhere takes offense. We must never underestimate the power of small mind and a loud voice” “Can the Evas defeat these machines?” asked Fuyutsuki “Yes, They were originally low budget replacements for the Evas. The Evas shall have no problem defeating them” said Ikari. thought the Sub-Commander ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Back At Misato’s apartment. Asuka laid in her bed, her mind a wash with the events of the last few hours. She was back in Tokyo-3, back with Misato, back with.....Shinji. This time Asuka’s main interest was Shinji, however so was Rei’s. thought Asuka. Asuka’s mind shifted back to a year ago, when she began to get better. Her memory up until that day is foggy, she remembered being attacked by the 15th Angel She rumbaed Shinji whispering goodbye to her. After that there was just a black void in her memory. Then she heard a voice “Asuka. Asuka” “Mother?” asked Asuka “Asuka, my daughter” said the voice. “Mother!” called Asuka “You must get better Asuka” Asuka was puzzled, “Why? nobody cares! Nobody cares about me!” “Shinji cares.” said the voice calmly At the mention of his name Asuka could feel her heart crack. “He, He, He left me!” said Asuka, her voice thick with sorrow. “He didn’t want to, His father forced him and his father sent you back to Germany You must get better. In one year’s time, team Eva will be summoned back to Tokyo-3 If you are not better the you will be left here. If that happens then Rei will win Shinji” Asuka felt hope at the chance of seeing Shinji again and anger at the thought of losing him to Rei “Will you let the First Child have him, Asuka?” asked her mother “No, I’ll never let her have Shinji!” said Asuka, her old determination in her voice “Then fight Asuka, fight you way out of this comma. I know you can do it. I’m very proud of you Asuka and I love you” said her mother With that the voice faded away, her final words ringing in Asuka’s mind After that Asuka fought her way out of her comma, waiting for the day she would go back to Tokyo-3 Asuka turned in her bed In the same apartment another Eva pilot was lost n thought Shinji turned and tossed unable to sleep. Rei and Asuka. Two girls who are so every important to him, but how far did those feelings go? Did he love Asuka or did he love Rei? Did he love both or maybe neither. Shinji had a feeling sooner or later he would have to make a choice. But if he did what would happen to the other girl? How could he say he loved one if it would hurt the other so badly. thought Shinji The next Morning Shinji sat eating his simple breakfast of toast and coffee. He was the first up, Misato and Asuka were still sleeping. Next to him Pen-Pen was eating his usual breakfast of fish. Just then Asuka came out of here room, dressed in her usual sleeping outfit. Loose T-shirt and baggy shorts. She walked up behind Shinji she placed her arms around him and said sweetly “Good morning Shinji” Shinji’s face turned red, “Asuka?! What, what are you doing?” He stood up and looked at his red-haird roommate Asuka put an innocent look on her face, “What do you mean Shinji? “ At that moment Misato choose to come out of her room. She saw Asuka in her semi-revealing outfit and a blushing Shinji “Am I interrupting anything?” she asked with a smile. Shinji turned even redder. “M-M-Misato?! What are saying” stammered Shinji. “Well from the looks of things, you two might have been ‘getting reacquainted’” laughed Misato “Gee Shinji-chan the secrets out. You see Misato we’re lovers” said Asuka “WHAT?!” shouted Shinji. “Oh really?” asked Misato amused “Since when?” “It’s not true!” insisted Shinji “Last night Shinji and I slept together, we missed each other so much” said Asuka “Shinji” said Misato “And here I thought you wanted me.” “Stop teasing me!” demanded Shinji The two women started laughing “But it’s so much fun to tease you Shinji baka” said Asuka “Like you said ‘Some things never change’” reminded Misato “So when do we go to NERV?” asked Shinji “You have a test scheduled for later today” said Misato “Ritsuko wants to see how your synch scores have been affected” “Don’t worry Misato” said Asuka “I’m sure Shinji the Great hasn’t lost a step” Shinji who was still as red as Eva-02 just sat there not saying a word ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Later that day at NERV Shinji walked through the halls of NERV, having just gotten changed he headed for the test plugs Asuka was still getting changed, He hadn’t seen Rei yet but Shinji assumed she was already there. Time proved him right. As he walked down the hall he saw Rei, leaning on the wall as if waiting for him. “Oh, Rei” said Shinji “Hello Shinji.” said Rei “You look well, are you ready for the test?” “I suppose, but will the Evas respond to us after all this time” said Shinji “Do you still have no faith in your father’s work?” asked Rei “You know I don’t especially after all he’s done to us” said Shinji, anger entering his voice “The last time I asked you that, I couldn’t understand why you hated you father so much but now I do understand” said Rei “Forget it Rei” said Shinji, “We’re back together now so...” He was interrupted by a shout “So you two are having secret meeting while I’m not around?” said Asuka as she caught up with them. “It’s not like that” said Shinji “Oh and what was it like?” said Asuka “We were just wondering if the Evas would still respond to us” said Shinji “I don’t know about yours but my Unit-02 will always respond to me” boasted Asuka “If that is true then why were going to be replaced?” asked Rei calmly “Rei!” said Shinji shocked at the comment Asuka was staggered slightly by the comment “Listen Wondergirl! I can pilot my Eva with no problems and don’t you dare suggest otherwise.” said Asuka angrily A voice came over the intercom “Move it pilots! Get in the test plugs now!” ordered Ritsuko The L.C.L. flooded over Shinji. It reminded him of the first time he was placed in the plug. How he was scared of the flooding plug. The way he had thought he was going to be sick after tasting the LCL for the first time and how Misato he told him not to complain, he was a boy after all. As final connection were made Shinji felt a rush of power, a sensation he had not felt before. For the first time, he was enjoying the link to Eva-01, like returning to an old friend he had left years ago. In the control room Ritsuko looked over the data being collect. “Well?” asked Misato “It seems there will be no problems for the children to control the Evas. Even Asuka’s ratio is high again.” said Ritsuko “SO they can pilot without any problems?” asked Misato “According to this data.” answered Ritsuko “Now what about these battle machines, what are they?” asked Misato “Three large humanoid robots, built as low-budget replacements for the Evas” said Ritsuko “The pilots will have no problem destroying them” “And after they do, will Commander Ikari send them away again” asked Misato with a touch of bitterness “No, even when the robots are destroyed the cult will still be around, the children will only be safe here in Tokyo-3, while the cult exists” said Ritsuko. “And what is NERV doing to take care of this cult?” asked Misato “Everything in our power” said Ritsuko. She turned to the intercom “OK guys, synch test is over, let’s move to the practice simulation.” A moan echoed from two of the three children Later after the simulation had ended Shinji stretched as he sat down near the soda machines in the lounge. thought Shinji stood up and put money in one of the machines, pressing a button his selected soda dropped into the tray at the bottom. Picking up the can and popping the top, Shinji took a long drink. Rei and Asuka came into the lounge. “So this is were you ran off to Shinji” said Asuka “I just wanted to rest after all that practice” said Shinji “You did quite well today Shinji.” said Rei Shinji, not used to compliments stammered, “Uh, thanks Rei” thought Asuka Asuka threw her arms around Shinji, “Shinji, you were wonderful, maybe I can reward tonight” she thought “Asuka what are you talking about?” asked Shinji trying to free himself from her grasp “Come on Shinji, you don’t have to be embarrassed, we did sleep together last night” said Asuka Her words had the desired effect, Rei stared at them for few minutes before leaving the room in a great hurry. “Rei. Rei wait” called Shinji He pulled himself away from Asuka and chased after Rei As Shinji disappeared down the hall, Asuka stood there and watched him go. Hurt and a feeling of was evident on her face. she thought Shinji followed Rei as she left NERV and walked al the way back to her apartment. “Rei” said Shinji as he followed her into the apartment Finally the blue haired girl turned to face him Shinji was taken back, he saw tears in her eyes. “Why did you follow me?” asked Rei “You left so fast, I was worried” said Shinji “Why? Did you not want to be alone with your girlfriend?” asked Rei “Girlfriend? You mean Asuka?” asked Shinji puzzled “Yes” said Rei “You did sleep with her” “No I didn’t” insisted Shinji, “I wish I knew why she started that” “You mean she lied?” asked Rei “She isn’t you girlfriend?” “That’s right” said Shinji A look of relief replaced the look of pain on Rei’s face. “Good, I still have a chance” said Rei as she moved closer to Shinji “What?” asked Shinji twitching nervously as Rei moved closer “I have a chance to be one with you” said Rei quietly “O-one with me? What do you mean” asked Shinji Rei’s face was now an inch from Shinji’s “I mean, I love you” said Rei as she kissed Shinji. Shinji was so shocked he just stood there as Rei kissed him. When they broke Shinji looked at Rei “You should go home” said Rei “You’ll be missed” “R-right” said Shinji, his lips still feeling the tingle of Rei’s kiss. Shinji walked down the sidewalk. Not know Rei was watching him. thought Rei Shinji entered the apartment, Misato was in the dinning room and Asuka was no where to be seen. “Shinji” called Misato “Come in here please.” Shinji walked into the room. “What’s up Misato? Where’s Asuka?” asked Shinji Misato looked serious, “Did something happen at NERV today?” “What do you mean?” asked Shinji “When Asuka came home today she was very upset. I wanted to know if you knew why” explained Misato A spear of regret lanced through Shinji. He explained what had happened in the NERV lounge, and after, only leaving out what Rei had said to him. Misato expression turned thoughtful, “I had a feeling this was going to happen, but it’s happening faster than I thought” Shinji was confused, “What? What’s happening” A knowing smile crossed Misato’s face, “You don’t see? Rei and Asuka are fighting over you” This answer hit Shinji like a ton of bricks. “So-so, what do I do?” asked Shinji “That I can’t ell you” said Misato. Later, Shinji knocked on Asuka’s door, getting no reply he slowly entered the room. “Asuka?” he called “What do you want” asked Asuka flatly. For a moment the voice seemed to come from all sides of the room, then Shinji saw her on the bed. “I-I was just worried about you” stammered Shinji “Shouldn’t you be with you little doll girlfriend?” asked Asuka angrily “She’s not my girlfriend?” said Shinji thought Shinji. “Then why did you throw me off?” asked Asuka “Well, well you scared me” said Shinji “You’ve never acted like that before, I thought you were teasing me again” Asuka sat up. there was enough light for Shinji to see her face. It both surprised and worried him that her face held the same look Rei’s did before she kissed him. “You mean, you and Rei aren’t a couple” asked Asuka “As far as I know we’re not” said Shinji “Then I still have a chance,” Asuka said, Shinji could not ignore the relief in her voice.. Asuka stood up and moved close to Shinji. Shinji began to tremble slightly as she moved close to him. “Don’t worry Shinji, I’m not going to hurt you” she said soothingly “Not when I still have a chance” < “Still have chance”? That’s the same thing Rei said> Thought Shinji Asuka continued to speak, “All the cold, dark time I spent in that comma, there were times all I could see was you face. I got better, when I heard I would be sent back, when I heard I would see you again” “Asuka?” said Shinji shakily “Are-are you saying” “I love you, Shinji” said Asuka. Before he could reply she silenced him with a long kiss. Later that night Shinji lay awake in his bed. Things were moving so fast he could barely keep his wits about him. Both Rei and Asuka admitted they each loved him. Now what was he to do? Sooner or later he would have to make a choice. If he rejected Rei, it might destroy what little emotions she had developed. Rejecting Asuka would be no better. Rejection could put Asuka back in her extremely depressed state, which might lead to suicide What was he to do? While Shinji pondered this question another thought worked it’s way into this head. Serving as a welcome distraction to his confused heart. thought Shinji If history repeats and his father sends them away again, he wouldn’t have to make this choice. But that solution would crush all three of them, since Shinji himself was on the brink of insanity before being called back. The Next day Having few friends and most of those being female, Shinji decided to seek the advice of one of the few guys who had was friends with. With Kaji dead, Touji and Kensuke gone there was only one guy Shinji had left he still trusted as a friend and felt he could talk to . Fortunate for Shinji, this friend was on a break when Shinji found him “Hyuga, I need some advise’ said Shinji to the Lt. who had found him beneath the step those three long years ago. Hyuga pushed the glasses up on his head and looked at the young pilot “What can I do for you Shinji?” When Shinji had explained what had happened “Wow,” said Hyuga “That’s some problem Shinji” “I know. I don’t want to hurt either one of them.” said Shinji “Unfortunately Shinji it can’t be helped. You can’t have both or eventually you’ll hurt both” said Hyuga “I know that too. How can I choose?” asked Shinji “I can’t tell you that Shinji” said Hyuga “I can only suggest that you take time in making your choice. If you make it too fast then this will end very messily” “I have a feeling it will end messily any way. I just wish Kaji was still here” said Shinji Hyuga felt a slight jolt at the mention of the other man. “So tell me Shinji, how is Misato doing?” asked Huyga Shinji smiled, knowing what Huyga really wanted, “She’s interested in going to that new movie by that American director. Ask her to go to that movie then top it off with that new Italian restaurant I guarantee she’ll go” Huyga turned a little red, “Thanks Shinji, I just wish I could have been more help to you” “That’s all right Huyga, Misato needs fun too” said Shinji with a smile. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Somewhere in Tokyo-2 A five man counsel sat in a conference The eldest counsel man spoke “So is our attack on NERV going as planned?” “Yes, however NERV has be alerted to our plans” said Another man “How?” asked the elder “A mole was discovered.” “A mole?” “Yes and he has been eliminated” “Good, now we should advance our plans” said the elder “Agreed” said another council man “Let us show these heathenist NERV agents that we will not let the sacrilegious killing of God’s messenger’s go unpunished “ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shinji walked down the halls of NERV Central. Up ahead he saw Rei and Asuka. They appeared to be arguing . Just then they turned o the side and saw him “Shinji” shouted Asuka Shinji froze in mid-stride. He wasn’t really ready to deal with either girl “Shinji” called Asuka again thought Shinji. He turned and ran. “Shinji” shouted Asuka “Shinji” called Rei. They started running after Shinji. Nearly out of breath, Shinji hid in a supply closet until he was sure Asuka and Rei we gone. Opening the door he made sure the girls were gone. thought Shinji Shinji spent the rest of the day wandering around town, trying to avoid going home. Finally he decided it was time to risk heading home. “Misato?” called Shinji as he entered the apartment “Misato?” No answer, he didn’t hear Asuka either so walked to his room and maybe try to digest what had happened. The first thing he noticed upon entering room was that his lights were on, low but still on. “How?” Shinji muttered to himself. “Shinji” a voice whispered quietly. Suddenly there was movement near the bed, “Shinji” called the voice again “Asuka?” asked Shinji “Oh Shinji-chan” called Asuka Asuka stood up from the bed. She was dress in a some-what revealing sleep wear. “A-A-Asuka” stammered Shinji “Shinji, come here, Misato is out with Huyga, they probably won’t be back for a few hours so where alone” said Asuka seductively Shinji turned and bolted out the door. He ran across the living room and opened the front door. When he opened the door he saw Rei standing there “Rei!” gasped Shinji Rei stepped into the room “I came to see you Shinji” said Rei Shinji backed up, forgetting his ‘other’ problem “Shinji, come to bed” called Asuka. Asuka stepped out of Shinji’s room into the living room and saw Rei standing there “What is she doing her?” asked Asuka angrily Rei turned, seeing what Asuka was wearing, she too got angry “What is going on here?” she asked “Isn’t it obvious?” asked Asuka “Shinji and I were going to bed” “Is this true Shinji?” asked Rei “No, I didn’t know about this.” said Shinji “What are you saying Shinji?” asked Asuka “Oh hell!” said Shinji He ran past Asuka into this room. Closing the door Shinji locked it. thought Shinji He wasn’t done, Shinji quickly barricaded his door so the girls couldn’t get in. He could still hear them arguing with each other and shouting to be let in. Once the barricading was done Shinji laid in his bed, accidentally sitting on a box of condoms, obviously left there by Asuka He put the box on his desk and went to sleep. In the world of dreams Shinji walked among the swirl mists. In the back of his mind, he knew he was sleeping but on he walked through the strange realm “Shinji” a voice called Shinji turned to see a figure walking out of the mists “Shinji” the figure called again When Shinji finally saw who it was the name came as a whisper “Kaoru” “Hello my friend” said Kaoru “Kaoru” said Shinji again, a little afraid “Don’t worry Shinji, I’m just here to see how you are doing” said Kaoru “I-I-I’m sorry” whispered Shinji again, his voice barely a whisper “Sorry, for what? asked Kaoru Shinji looked at him puzzled, “I-I I killed you” Kaoru laughed, remembering “Oh, that. Listen to me Shinji. You didn’t really kill me. You killed the form I had taken, but I am an angel. Angels are immortal, you only destroyed the body I had taken, just like my brethren before me” “I didn’t kill you” said Shinji “No Shinji, you didn’t” said Kaoru “Now relax and let us talk. It has been a long time” “Yes my friend it has” said Shinji “I’m glad to see you, I have a problem” Shinji related to the ghostly image of the fifth child, the events of the past few days. Kaoru laughed slightly, “You have a good heart Shinji.” “That is one of the reasons I am proud to call you a friend” “That doesn’t help me Kaoru” said Shinji “I need you to tell me what to do” “Shinji I cannot tell you what to do. You must use your own heart and decided what is best for you.” said Kaoru “I don’t want to hurt either one of them” said Shinji “I know, I never said the decision would be easy but it must be made.” said Kaoru “I understand, old friend” said Shinji Just then the realm began to go blurry. “What’s happening?” asked Shinji “You are waking up” explained Kaoru “But, I, I might not” stammered Shinji Kaoru smiled, “Don’t worry, Now that mankind has passed the test of the Angels I can visit you often” “Goodbye Kaoru” said Shinji “Goodbye Shinji. I lo..” said Kaoru “Hold it Kaoru, leave it at goodbye. I have enough to think about” said Shinji Kaoru laughed, “All right then, goodbye my friend” Shinji opened his eyes, the sunlight filtered in through the windows. Quietly Shinji got dressed and left his room, begin very careful to move the furniture blocking his door as quietly as possible. On the couch Rei was sleeping and Asuka was probably in her room. Shinji quietly across the apartment and left before any one else could wake up. For the first part of the day Shinji did his best to avoid both Asuka and Rei But about mid-afternoon they cornered him in the lounge. “Hold it Shinji, this has gone far enough” said Asuka “For once I agree with her” said Rei “W-w-what do you mean?” asked Shinji “We want to know, Who do you love?” said Asuka “We must know Shinji, you must end this contest” said Rei “But-but” stammered Shinji “Shinji we have to know” said Rei “It isn’t fair for you to lead us on!” said Asuka “I-I-I” stammered Shinji “I-I-I” You know the old expression ‘saved by the bell’? well in this case it’s saved be the siren. Because just then a siren not heard for three years echoed through NERV. “We’re under attack!” exclaimed Asuka Moving with three year old training the children ran to their plugsuits and to prepare for battle. Ten minutes later found the children in the Evas ready for launch. Misato’s voice came over the intercom. “There are three robots, none of them posses an At Field so use that to your advantage” “Roger” came the three voice reply The Evas were deployed into the city. In front of them were three robots, Like triplets they were identical. Humanoid form, dome head and a large cannon on the right shoulder. On the chest each held a different symbol, A cross, a grail and a star The one with the cross attacked first, firing it’s cannon at Eva-02 The beam shattered on contact with the AT Field. “My turn” said Asuka She opened fired with her rifle. The bullets just bounds of the robots armor. “Damn, the guns don’t work” said Shinji Misato’s voice came over the intercom “Shinji’s right, That armor is as tough as yours, so you’ll have to use blade weapons We’re sending some to you now” Armament building on each side opened to reveal an axe, a sword and a spear Shinji grabbed the spear, Asuka grabbed the sword and Rei picked the axe. “Stay down and circle around them” said Rei Rei snuck up near the robot with the grail. Jumping up she planted the axe right in the robot’s gut. When the robot bent forward Rei raised the axe and ,with the skill of an executioner, chopped it’s head off. Asuka confronted to robot with the cross. After destroying it’s cannon she hit it with a vertical swipe then a horizontal swipe to the chest so that the cuts formed a cross of their own. The machines exploded in a ball of fire. Shinji raised his spear to destroy the robot with the star, but it moved faster that he anticipated. The cannon fired a blast of energy knocking Shinji to the ground. The spear landed a few feet away, Shinji turned to scramble for the weapon but the robot grabbed and pull the umbilical cord. The cord was pulled from the Eva, and Eva-01 switched to internal power. Shinji grabbed the spear and stabbed the robot through the star. Shinji pushed the robot back into the axe and sword of the other two Evas which came down and destroyed the final machine. “Looks like you’ve lost a step Shinji” said Asuka “Just out of practice” said Shinji with a smile Of course after a battle like this, it was Misato philosophy to have a party. Especially when Commander Ikari announced earlier that the Eva pilots were to remain in Tokyo-3 indefinitely. They reasoned if one attack was made, more were sure to come. The pilots would be safer here. The music was loud and the party was fun. Shinji looked around, Misato was drunk already and all over Hyuga, who didn’t seem to mind. Ritsuko and Maya were talking with Aoba, who for some reason was turning red. Shinji wished Touji, Kensuke and Hikari were there. Then Shinji became puzzled. Asuka and Rei were nowhere to be see. “Shinji” called Misato drunkenly “Be a dear and get me another beer” Shinji smiled, some things never did change Shinji walked into the kitchen and to the fridge, pulling out a beer he turned back to leave. Unfortunately when he did turned back, he saw Asuka and Rei blocking his way. “This time Shinji, you will answer us” said Asuka “We must know Shinji” said Rei “Who do you love?” “You aren’t leaving this kitchen until you answer us.” said Asuka “I-I” stammered Shinji thought Shinji “I” “I” “I” Shinji could hear the voices of the girls in his mind “I” “I” “Stop stalling Shinji” said Asuka “What is your choice?” asked Rei Shinji took in a deep breath and he said “I-I, I choose..........” The End The decision to choice the girl is not mine to make, it is Shinji’s I will write no more of this tale. You make your own choice about who Shinji will choose If you like it, I would like to hear it, if you don’t please tell me why but what ever you opinion please consider the question at the beginning of this tale “What did I write this?”