Neon Genesis Evangelion Fan Fiction ❯ The One I Love Is...Mst ❯ Chapter 5 ( Chapter 6 )

[ T - Teen: Not suitable for readers under 13 ]

Standard Disclaimer

Yo! Zen here with yet another installment of MST for you happy
people

I don't own anything evangelion...specially the Movies on DVD as
manga pushed back the release for ABOUT 4-5 MONTHS!!! bastards....

anyway speaking of them...think EoE is weird watch the Utena Movie....
makes EoE seem like pokemon...well anyway..

--------------------------------------------------------- --------------

Kensuke: Remind me why we're letting Touji cook?

Shinji: Well he asked for it because of his...blow to the head
he's actually a good cook (if you read the manga).

Hikari: And Asuka and Ayanami are prepairing for their
Dance Dance Revolution fight

Touji: Why couldn't they do something cool like mud wrestling.

Rei from Shinji's room: Because Ikari-kun refused to be judge.

Kensuke: She's lying right?

Hikari: No....she's not.

Shinji blushing: I don't want any part of this so...

Touji/Kensuke: Wuss.

Shinji: So, and finish already I'm hungry.

Touji: Ah..Shin-man upset were messing with him he he.

Kensuke: Uh..Touji think of where we are...don't provoke them.

HIkari: Wise decision. And this is a fun way to spend break but
Shinji-kun where is Misato-san?

Kensuke: Yeah!

Shinji: She said she needed to visit Doctor Akagi for awhile so..

Asuka joining them in the kitchen clad in well lets say the stuff from
the sync eps: And good ridencse she'd want to watch this too.

Rei also joining but clad in Shinji's copy: Agreed

Touji: ALL DONE!!

They eat their delicious supper.

Hikari: It wasn't terrible.

Rei: I didn't get to eat anything...

Shinji: Oh sorry, I'll make you something 'goes and makes a salad'

Touji: Man he needs to get some ballz.

Kensuke: Dragon?

Hikari: Shut up with that, and I think its sweet.

Asuka: Why she's just complaining all the time.

Shinji returns Rei eats and the all enter the living room.

Asuka: Uh...I ate to much.

Rei: As did I.

Shinji: Guess no D-D-R now..after?

Touji: They're just wimping out.

Hikari: Never saw you doing any DDR

Kensuke: That would be funny.

Asuka: Ok its decided we have a tourny!!

Hikari: WHAT!!!

Asuka: It'll be fun.

Shinji: But we'll only have time forone more movie tonight.

Rei: Only if you go to sleep early.

Shinji: Lets start the movie now. Hey! theirs two tapes for the next one.

Hikari: OH KAMI-SAMA!!! Shinji-kun...don't ever put the second tape in.

Rei: Why?

ASuka: Yeah why, you saw this so whats so bad about it?

Hikari tells them and only them.

Asuka: Oh Kami-sama..no..

Rei: 'Mental note, wake Shinji-kun during night and watch.'

Shinji: Well Lets watch this one then 'puts tape in and sits on chair.'

Girls take couch, Touji the chair and Kensuke the floor.

Asuka: Hikari..did you...

Hikari blushing: I didn't know at the time.

Kensuke/Touji/Shinji: Know what?

Rei: You will find out later Shinji-kun.

Asuka: Over my dead body.

Shinji: 'I've got a bad feeling. pushes play'

(begin MST look fo da shiznit >>> k)

The One I Love Is...
Chapter 5 - The more things change, the more they stay the same
Written by Alain Gravel <rakna@globetrotter.qc.ca>
Based on characters created by and copyright GAINAX

http://www.geocities.com/Tokyo/Teahouse/2236/

> >>Rei: Teahouses in Tokyo are expensive.

>>>Shinji: And underwater.

(*) See translations notes for details

========================================================== =============

Chapter 5 - The more things change, the more they stay the same

Part 1: Changes

>>>Kensuke: SWEET!!

>>>Touji: Huh?

>>>Kensuke: In cloths hopefully!

>>>Hikari: Maybe in your sex if you don't shut up.

Project E
Third Children Observation Report

>>>Shinji: They're still doing that?

>>>Touji: Nobody said it was official..maybe a potential stalker?

>>>Rei/Asuka: Its for work!

February 26th, 2016

[Shinji hasn't left his room for four days now,

>>>Asuka: HENTAI!

>>>Rei: I'm flattered.

>>>Touji: WHAT!

>>>Asuka: He's thinking of ME.

>>>Shinji: I don't DO THAT!!!

only coming out for
synch and harmonic tests, never saying a word, since that night he was
lost outside Tokyo-3 with Asuka.

>>>Kensuke: The deep rooted trama still hasn't been overcome.

>>>Touji: Only with a great deal of therapy will he be normal.

>>>Rei: Or moving in with me.

>>>Hikari: Or his own place.

I'm beginning to worry, both as his
guardian and NERV officer. He only eats at night when he thinks everyone
is sleeping. His mood appears darker than usual, and his synch ratio has
dropped by nearly 20%.

>>>Shinji: Why?

>>>Touji: Mega-playboy powers need re-energizing.

>>>Kensuke: Your harem stealing your energy?

Even with tightened surveillance around the
apartment, I'm afraid he may run away again.
I tried to ask Asuka what's going on, but she refused to answer.
While she had seemed as perturbed as Shinji when Kaji brought them home
that night, she has since then resumed a more or less normal life,
although she is apparently very worried about Shinji.

>>>Hikari: See I told you Asuka's nice.

>>>Touji: She's just worried about losing her sacrifice.

>>>Rei: Why haven't I made an apperence yet?

>>>Shinji: Its only been on for about five minutes.

I have also noted
that she is more aggressive than ever towards Rei. I can guess why, but
without knowing what happened between her and Shinji, I can't know for
sure. The medical check I had asked Ritsuko to perform didn't reveal
anything unusual, except the obvious injuries to her feet, and those are
healing well.

>>>Touji: Say Shinji...what was she looking for, bun in the oven?

>>>Asuka blushing: You saw the last movie nothing happend!

>>>kensuke: Maybe they need to give YOU the test..so defensive 'smiles.'


She was able to go to school today. I don't know why I
asked for that check. Did I really believe Shinji could have done
something to hurt Asuka?
I'm really ashamed of myself. I should have trusted Shinji more than
that. But it's my job. I must take precautions against any potential
threat to my team.]

>>>Rei: She should have been worried about me.

>>>Shinji: Why?

>>>Asuka: Because you'd never hurt me.

>>>Touji: Even if he tried.

- - -

I awoke that morning with a firm resolution. Time to face reality
again.
Since that night in the woods, I had withdrawn from the others. With
all that had happened, I couldn't bear to face Asuka and Rei. I loved
them both. I had kissed them both.

>>>Hikari: Shinji-kun seems very dramatic today.

>>>Rei/Asuka: BUT HE KISSED HER!!

>>>Shinji: I don't like hurting people.

This was insane. Was it really possible to love two girls at the
same time?
I didn't know. I had spent numerous hours thinking about it, without
finding any answer, other then the fact that my feelings for both of
them were genuine.
I loved Rei. I loved Asuka. And I needed them both.

>>>Touji: What type of need?

>>>Rei: You do have deep rooted complexes regarding the opposite sex.

>>>Asuka: I'd say he's just a pervert.

But I wasn't a fool. I knew it was unfair to both of them. I needed
to choose one of them. But I couldn't resolve myself to do it. Not yet,
anyway. However, I knew I couldn't wait forever. Because if I did,
everyone involved would end up hurt. I, the most.

>>>Hikari: As the other tore you apart.

>>>Kensuke: I'd say pen-pen would be hurt the most.

What I could do now was to make sure no one interfered. I had spent
the last four days thinking about it. Kaji's words were still fresh in
my mind.
'If you were to fall in love with Asuka, then you would lose
interest in Rei. That way, your father would have complete control over
her as before.'

>>>Rei: You wouldn't let that happen now would you?

>>>Shinji: Never...evil bastard.

>>>ASuka: WHAT ABOUT ME!

>>>Shinji: Well I...

>>>Touji: See Ken..thats what a cornered mouse looks like.

Father... No! Commander Ikari.
I could accept the thought of him using me. But not Rei and Asuka.
I took some clothes lying on the ground, got dressed, then exited
the darkness of my room to enter the real world.

>>>Shinji: That light just never works anymore.

>>>Rei: It makes it easier to get in.

>>>Asuka: You don't have very good night eyes so..

>>>Hikari: 'Shakes her head' you two are weird.

* * *

As I made my way to the Commander's office, I received several
strange looks. For anyone to go to the Commander's office unannounced
was probably quite irregular. I wasn't surprised to be looked at that
way. Everyone at NERV was likely afraid of Ikari Gendo.

>>>Shinji: Just look at him...with those beady eyes and that dumb mustache.

>>>Touji: With his meglomania and all.

>>>Rei: He has a point.

I, most of all.
But I managed to shove that fear aside. I had spent many hours preparing
for what I was about to do.

>>>Touji: Get your girls in your room and get the funk on?

>>>Rei kicks his leg: Silence.

>>>Asuka punches his arm: Pervert.

>>>kensuke: I bet you're right.

I wouldn't let a small detail like fear
destroy all my plans. If needed, I could always behave like the man I
hated the most. So, when I entered his office, my face bore the same
usual expressionless mask that used to be Rei's trademark.

>>>Rei: Shinji-kun, you're breaking the law by doing that.

>>>Asuka: Ew! thats just nasty.

>>>Shinji: But..But..

>>>Rei: You must meet the requirements of this 'pulls out a piece of paper'

>>>Shinji reads it: But all it says is...

>>>Rei: I know.

>>>Shinji just looks at paper blushs and puts it in his pocket.

>>>Kensuke: Lawyers suck.

If my visit was highly irregular, the Commander didn't seem to care,
as he waited for me to reach his desk before speaking.
"What are you doing here?"

>>>Asuka: Asking permission to marry me.

>>>Rei: Requesting a change of residency.

>>>Shinji: Came to punch you in the juguler.

>>>Kensuke: Asking if I can be an eva pilot!

He had his usual icy demeanor. Because of the lack of light in the
room, I could barely see his eyes through the tinted glasses. For once,
it was a good thing.
I tried to answer, but was almost overwhelmed by the fear I always
felt when facing to him. It took a few long seconds to gather what
little courage I still had and manage to put my thoughts into words.
"I don't want you to interfere with our lives ever again."

>>>Asuka: Wow..what a powerful statement...think I heard a blade of grass snap.

>>>Kensuke: Shin-man...thats awful.

>>>Shinji: So I can't talk to him, sue me.

>>>Rei: Don't comply to my demands and I will 'smiles'

The Commander raised an eyebrow. Well, well, judging by this
reaction, he was probably quite surprised. It was, after all, the first
time I could see some expression on his face other then a smirk.

>>>Shinji: Is that?

>>>Rei: Yes it is trademarked also.

>>>Hikari: The Gendo Smirk by Gainax.

This
reaction chased away part of the fear that threaten to cloud my mind at
any moment.
"Is this a threat?" he asked.

>>>Touji: If it came from Asuka.

>>>Asuka: I would have simply wrote it down and crammed it down his throat.

"It can become one."
Again, the Commander raised an eyebrow. For some reason, I thought
about a poker game. We were both keeping a neutral face, trying to hide
what kind of cards we had, trying to see if the other was bluffing. I
realized it wasn't that hard, I just had to avoid letting my anger and
fears get the better of me. Because if it did, then he would have
control.
"You think you can threaten me?"

>>>Asuka: Easily, think you can stop an eva?

>>>Shinji: Last time he did.

>>>Asuka: Yeah but if you actually TRIED!!

>>>Touji: I think I'm missing something.

>>>Rei: A plot hole.

"Of course I can. I am the only pilot of Unit-01. You need me to
save your life. You know as well as I do that you don't have any spare
pilots. And you also know that Rei and Asuka won't be able to fight
alone for long. That is, if I don't convince them to stop fighting for
you at all. In this whole scenario... you are the only one who is
useless."

>>>Rei: Incorrct Kozo is.

>>>Asuka: I thought the entire bridge crew was pointless.

>>>Shinji: Janitor for the Male pilot room.

>>>Hikari: Sensei.

The Commander blinked, obviously shocked. So was I. I had thought
about saying those words for a long time, but had I never imagined I
could say them with so much conviction. But then again, it was the
truth.
"Are you saying that you'll refuse to pilot?"
"Yes."
"What makes you think I'd give in to your demands?"

>>>Touji: But you never said any demands.

>>>Kensuke: Does that matter?

>>>Rei: Yes.

"You have no choice, unless you wish to be reduced to a bloody pulp
in the hands of an EVA."
I had hoped that the Commander would have reacted to those last
words. That his face would have shown surprise or even anger. It didn't.
Instead, he seemed amused, as that damn smirk appeared on his face.
"Do you think you can threaten to kill me?"

>>>Asuka: Duh! he just did.

>>>Shinji: How did he become Commander anyway?

>>>Rei: Same way Cleopatra did.

>>>Touji: Who?

>>>Hikari: You're hopeless.

"What can you do to stop me? You need me. But don't worry, I don't
intend on becoming a bastard like you. You should be safe."
I just ignored him and turned my back to him. Although quite
frankly, I was starting to break down. I couldn't keep the emotionless
act much too long.
"If you don't pilot, you will condemn mankind to death."
I expected that.
"You think that matters to me?" I retorted. And it didn't. What had
humanity ever done for me?

>>>Hikari: You're in a bad mood.

>>>Shinji: Well what has it?

>>>Asuka/Rei: What about us?

>>>Touji: Some friend you are.

>>>Kensuke: Last time I do you a favor.

>>>Shinji: Ah hell.

"If you don't pilot, you will condemn Rei and Sohryu to death."
Damn! That hurt! I'd been expecting it and realized it was something
he was likely to bring up, but it still hurt to actually hear it said. I
kept myself under control, except for a small twitch on my cheek.
Hopefully he was too far away to have seen it.
"Better we all die living our own lives rather than live and be your
or anyone else's pawns,"

>>>Rei: We are more akin to knights and bishops.

>>>Asuka: Call me a queen.

>>>Touji: Of S&M.

>>>Shinji: I don't like chess..pen-pen always beats me.

I answered. And I truly believed in those
words.
The Commander remained silent. Well, if he didn't know what to say,
I sure did.
"One more thing: the living quarters assigned to Rei-chan are
despicable. I expect her to move into the apartment next to ours."

>>>Kensuke: And Mega-playboy resurfaces.

>>>Touji: Keeping the honeys closer.

>>>Rei: I like this chapter.

"Rei will stay where she is."
I turned around and looked him in the eyes, then smiled.
"Either she becomes my neighbor or she'll come live with me. Of
course, we are a bit short of space and beds, so she'll have to sleep
with me. I know she won't mind, since she was the one who came up with
the idea in the first place..."

>>>Touji: Go Shin-man make that bastard twitch.

>>>Rei: Never saw that look on his face.

>>>Asuka: You WHORE!

>>>Hikari: Not like you'd do any different.

>>>Asuka: I..well..I'd at least have a double bed.

>>>Shinji blushing: I forgot she said that before.

I turned away before he had time to react.
"Either way, you lose. It's up to you to decide what your loss will
be. But understand this: none of us are your puppets anymore, including
Rei."
"You should forget about this idea of having a relationship with
Rei. It can never work."

>>>Asuka: Yeah, I'm much better.

>>>Rei: If Shinji-kun enjoys beatings.

>>>Touji: Sometimes..I can't tell.

I froze there.
"What do you know? You should know already that it's going quite
well."
"Is it? Did Rei tell you her secret?"

>>>Shinji: Rei?

>>>Rei: I'll tell you later.

Again, I turned around to face him. The Commander was smirking.
"Secret?"
"Then this means you don't know. I thought so..."
"Know about what?"
The Commander ignored my question.
"Forget about Rei. This relationship is doomed to fail."
"Shut up!"

>>>Asuka: TESTIFY!!

>>>Rei: Silence...'Commander...bastard'

>>>Kensuke: Hey Touji...Ayanami..seem odd?

>>>Touji: She's...talking normal..but with that creepy tone.

"You are just running away from reality again."
"What reality? Yours?"
"Yes."
Damn old bastard!
"Enough of this nonsense! I've told you what I wanted, and you know
the consequences of refusing me. And that is all what matters."
Having said that, I left.
I almost collapsed once I had passed the door. My heart was beating
at a dangerously high rate, and I had trouble breathing.

>>>Touji: Go to the gym more often, talking makes you winded.

>>>Shinji: I've never claimed to be the epitomy of health.

>>>Hikari: You don't do to poorly in P.E. though.

I had done it.
I had confronted the man who used to be my father, and won. I couldn't
quite believe it, but I was sure of it.
"Rei... Asuka... Thank you..." I whispered.
Without them, this confrontation would not have been possible.

>>>Kensuke: Or needed actually.

>>>Shinji: True but its still fun to watch the old-fart squirm.

>>>All: AGREED!

If
they thought I was worthy to be loved, then maybe I was worth more than
I thought...
However, I couldn't help but think back about what the Commander had
said. Was Rei really trying to hide something from me? Why did Rei seem
so important to him?

>>>Kensuke: Commander likes the young girls hu..uuugh.

>>>Rei resumes sitting after knocking kensuke out: That will not be tolerated.

>>>Asuka: I wonder though, he always has seemed to...

>>>Shinji: Asuka, please don't push this...'I'd have to kill him then.'

I tried to shove those ideas aside. Those were only the results of
the Commander's efforts to manipulate me again. I would not fall for it.
When I finally headed home, I had a broad smile on my face.

* * *

It was still a few hours away from Asuka and Misato's return from
school and work, so I had the apartment all to myself for a while. Well,
almost. Pen-Pen was here to keep me company,

>>>Touji: He's still alive...Thank kami-sama.

>>>Hikari: That thing just looks..weird.

I realized, as he stood
before me, a hungry look in his eyes. Poor Pen-Pen. Who knew what Misato
had tried to feed him?

>>>Shinji: Last time it looked like chicken.

>>>Hikari: Isn't that kinda like canabolism?

>>>Rei: In sorts.

"I'm sorry, Pen-Pen." I told him as I gave him a quickly made, but
edible meal.
Seeing the penguin obviously pleased, I decided to take a bath. It
would help me think about what to do when my roommates returned...
especially Asuka.

>>>ASuka: So thats why it takes you so long to take a bath hentai.

>>>Shinji blushing: Misato-san's idea is that bathing helps people think.

>>>Rei: I've never bathed.

>>>Hikari: EW!!!

>>>Rei: I shower

>>>Touji: AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHa HIkari jumped the gun on dat one.

I had not really been nice to them these last few days.
I needed to find a way to apologize.

* * *

I was startled by the sound of someone entering the apartment. I had
not realized that the time had passed so fast. I exited the kitchen,
still wearing an apron, to see Asuka standing at the entrance. When she
saw me, she suddenly froze in place.

>>>Touji: The ice pick lodged in her back.

>>>Rei: Simple mesures work the best.

>>>Kensuke: Wha..huh?

For a long time, we looked into each other's eyes. Beside surprise,
I had trouble telling what she was thinking.
I smiled.
"Welcome home, Asuka-chan."

>>>Asuka starry eyed: That sounds soooooo good!

>>>Shinji: Asuka-chan...

>>>Asuka: YES!!

>>>Rei: Sounds like nails on a chalk-board.

It felt like the thing to say. Seeing her made me feel so good. Even
though I had been with her and Rei for harmonic tests, it didn't feel
the same as it used to. We didn't exchange words. Lost in thoughts, I
had barely acknowledged their presence. I didn't want to. But now I
could. My problems were not solved, but I had understood that hiding
away from them would never solve anything. It was a big step toward an
answer.
"Shin... Shinji... Shinji!"

>>>Rei: Yes that is his name, did you forget?

>>>Asuka: Oh your just pissy since you're not in this episode.

>>>Rei: Yes.

>>>Touji: Nother point for me!!

>>>Hikari: That game is cruel.

>>>Kensuke: then tell us who wins so we can end it.

>>>Asuka/Rei: YEAH!

>>>Shinji: Um..why ruin it?

Her school bag fell on the floor. The next thing I knew, I was
squeezed by a hard hug.
"Shinji..."
"Asuka..."

>>>Rei: He can't breath.

>>>Kensuke: His lips are blue.

It felt weird having her head against my shoulder. I had not really
noticed that night, when she had fell asleep in my arms, because of the
unusual situation we had been in. But now... being like this, in our
home, on a day like any other... it actually felt good.

>>>Asuka: If you cop a feel you're a dead man.

>>>Hikari: ASUKA LOOK AT WHAT YOUR DOING!

>>>Touji: Whow! she grabbed his ass!

>>>Rei: That is harasment.

I surprised myself by returning her hug as best as I could, since my
arms were stuck against my body by her powerful hold.
"For a while, I thought you didn't want to talk to me, that you
wanted to avoid me..."

>>>Shinji: #19 Avoidance is an escape.

>>>Rei: What happend to me?

She almost sounded like she was about to cry. I really felt bad
about that. I should not have shut them out of my life as I had.
"I'm sorry. I just needed some time to think. But I didn't
deliberately avoid you..."
"Shinji..."
Then for a second time, the door opened.
"I'm ho..."

>>>Touji: Is she really!!

>>>Kensuke: I'd save for a life time!!

>>>Hikari: Oh that is just 'flings a pillow at them' she was cut OFF!

The words died in the Major's mouth the instant she noticed us...
and the way we were holding each other. By instinct, I released the
small hold I had on Asuka. The redhead seemed to have the same reflex as
me.
"Misato-san, it's not what you..."
My excuses were cut by a slap.
"You pervert! Don't you dare hug me like that ever again!"

>>>Rei: Their thats normal.

>>>Asuka: Ah hell.

>>>Hikari: You have those mood swings.

>>>Kensuke: Now rember don't touch lightly GO FOR THE GUSTO!!

This said, Asuka stomped to her room. I stayed there, confused. One
instant, she was hugging me, the other she was calling me a pervert. Why
were girls so hard to understand?

>>>Asuka: Because boys are so simple.

>>>Rei: Not girls just the 2nd.

>>>Shinji: All people are confusing.

At least, she didn't hit me too hard. Either I was getting used to
being slapped or it really didn't hurt.
"So... you're back, I see." Misato said, recovering from the initial
shock.
"Seems so. You're back early yourself."
"Well, I wanted to see if the rumors were true. Something about the
pilot of Evangelion Unit-01 visiting the Commander unannounced..."

>>>Shinji: To bad the rumors didn't include a gun and a missing body.

>>>Kensuke: Think the second commander would make me a pilot?

>>>Rei: No he was the first to deny it.

"Oh..."
Misato gave me a curious look.
"I see. What did you two talk about?"
"I told him not ever to interfere with my life, or Asuka's or
Rei's."
Again, Misato looked surprised.
"You... you said that... to him?"

>>>Kensuke: No, just want to look manly so we can get the funk on.

>>>Shinji: Ken..she'd never.

>>>Rei: If she would?

>>>Asuka: HEY YEAH!!

>>>Touji: Ouch off night for mega-playboy.

I nodded.
"If you don't mind, I'd rather not talk further about it right now."
"I understand, Shinji-kun."
"Good. You know, Misato-san, to make up for my rude behavior of
these past few days, I've prepared dinner. No instant stuff; just a nice
home cooked meal."

>>>Hikari: Whats so special about that?

>>>Shinji: You've never been over when its Asuka's or her turn to cook.

>>>Rei: You make wonderful salads.

>>>Touji: That was about 30 minutes ago.

>>>Asuka: Better be.

Asuka's door suddenly opened to reveal the Second Children, a hungry
look on her face.
"You've cooked dinner? Gott sei Dank! (*) Food! Real food! I honesty
thought I'd die of starvation if you had continued to hide in your
shell."

>>>Shinji: So..she's happy again?

>>>Asuka: You go that long on her cooking then ask me.

I nodded. A second later, Asuka was already in the kitchen.
"Humph... If she doesn't like my food, she can cook next time you're
not cooking..."
I suddenly realized Misato seemed slightly upset.
"She just doesn't know how to appreciate your cooking..." I said to
her, trying to cheer her up.

>>>Kensuke: And what is their to apprecieate 'her as a waitress..drools'

>>>Touji: Her as the waitr OW. Hikari that hurt!

>>>Hikari: Good.

Misato's face now showed a broad smile.
"Yeah, you're probably right... Now, come on! Let's eat! It's been a
while since the last time this family has eaten together."
I was struck by those words. Family. Yes, Asuka and Misato were my
family. Rei, too... And now, we were together again... This was my
family. This was my home.

>>>Rei: But I'm not there.

>>>Asuka: Which means your not family 'smirks'

>>>Hikari: But didn't he.

>>>Asuka: NO!

>>>Shinji: I could have sworn..

>>>Asuka: NO NO NO!!

* * *

We had barely finished dinner when a knock on the door interrupted
our little private reunion.
"Who could that be? Did one of you invite someone here?" asked the
Major.
Both Asuka and I shook our heads.
Seeing that none of the female members of our group seemed intent on
answering the door, I got up and went to see who had knocked. I was
slightly surprised when opening the door revealed Rei. The blue haired
girl seemed equally surprised.

>>>Rei: My first appearance in a long time.

>>>Kensuke: And that apron suits Shin-man so well.

>>>Rei: Oddly, it does.

>>>Asuka/hikari: It does.

For a short time, we stood there, looking
into each other's eyes, our cheeks growing redder with each passing
moment.
"Rei-chan..."
"Shinji-kun..."
I didn't really know what came over me, but I took her into my arms,
like Asuka had done earlier with me.

>>>Rei: Not enough but a good start.

>>>Asuka: Come on where am I to kick her ass out!!

>>>Kensuke: Stuffing your face.

>>>Shinji: You did seem to like the food.

"It's so good to see you, Rei-chan..."
"It is good to see you are feeling better, Shinji-kun..."
Then, from the kitchen, we heard Misato's voice.
"So, who is it Shinji?"
Fearing that the Major, or worse, Asuka, might come and look for
herself, I let go of Rei.
"It's Rei-chan, Misato-san."
"WHO?"

>>>Kensuke/Touji: Mega-playboy!! whats happend to you, who's got the
>>> Kryptonyte?

>>>Hikari: He is making alot of mistakes.

>>>Shinji: I don't know why you guys keep calling me that.

Within an instant, Asuka was standing right behind me, a murderous
look on her face.
"What are YOU doing HERE?"
Rei stayed indifferent to Asuka's obviously upset tone of voice. In
fact, she seemed to barely notice Asuka at all.
"I am here to see Major Katsuragi."
The said Major appeared, having probably concluded that risks for
property damage were likely not too high for now. But she did hold a new
can of beer... most probably almost empty by now.

>>>Shinji: She can empty a can in 5 seconds of course its almost empty.

>>>ASuka: She drinks a can while she's opening the next.

"What can I do for you, Rei?"
"I must inform you that my living quarters have been relocated."
I barely managed not to look surprised. That was faster than I had
expected.
"How nice! About time you moved out of that dump. So, where will you
live now?"

>>>Asuka: In a nice room in hell.

>>>Kensuke: So she's moving in with you?

>>>Rei: I'd prefer Ikari-kuns room.

>>>Hikari: You don't hold anything back do you.

>>>Rei: Why should I?

>>>Shinji blushing: Lets...lets watch ok? 'Kami-sama what is all this!!'

"In the apartment next to this one. The Commander evaluated that it
would be more convenient this way."
How typical of the Commander to try and take credit for the idea.
"WHAT!" shouted Asuka. "Haven't you invaded my life enough as it is
already? I see you at school, I see you at work... don't tell me I'll
see you here also?"

>>>Kensuke: Makes for a fine plot device.

>>>Touji: How about you three all stay in the same room?

>>>Rei/Asuka/Shinji: YEAH! 'As long as I'm with him/screw her/ maybe'

Misato put her hand on one of Asuka's shoulders.
"She won't be living here, Asuka. Just next door..."

>>>Asuka: And thats supposed to make me feel better why?

>>>Kensuke: You won't hear the noise they make?

>>>Touji: Won't have to see them nude?

>>>HIkari: You have a place to hide the BODIES! 'looks at both of them'


"I just know she'll spend her time here, trying to seduce my
Shinji!"

>>>Shinji: I don't think...no wait.

>>>Rei: I've improved my meathods.

"Now, now..."
This was bad. Better try to change the subject.
"Care to show us around your new apartment, Rei-chan?" I asked.
"Yeah! Great idea Shinji! Let's take a look!"
I didn't like Misato's sudden burst of enthusiasm. She was hiding
something. I could tell that her brain was working on putting together
some kind of scheme.
"Follow me." Rei said simply, as she invited us to go with her.

>>>ASuka: No! thats pointless.

>>>Shinji: But her apt would be like ours.

>>>Rei: Good I'll learn the layout.

* * *

"This place is bigger than ours! How come?" asked a surprised Asuka.
"Actually, I think it's the same size as ours," I corrected her,
"except it's less crowded with people and stuff."

>>>Asuka: And what are you implying?

>>>Touji: That your a pack-rat with to much shit.

>>>Asuka: I NEED all of it though.

>>>Hikari: Asuka..you kept every paper we've gotten since you got here.

>>>Shinji: She has every paper she's recieved...those boxes were heavy.

Rei's apartment did look like ours. But this one was nearly empty,
and the thick layer of dust indicated that it hadn't been occupied for a
long time. Actually, as far as I could recall, nobody had ever lived
here.

>>>Shinji: Or in any other room in that building.

>>>Touji: Thats odd, why do you live so high up then?

>>>Shinji: Misato-san said the walk helps with her hang-overs.

"I think our apartment looked like this when I first got here. I
remember I had to buy some extra furniture. Feels like ages ago now."
explained Misato.
Furniture was indeed scarce. A low table and a single sitting
cushion in the living room. Two chairs and a table in the kitchen with
the fridge and stove. If Rei hadn't been alone, this would have been
barely enough.

>>>Rei: So many things.

>>>Hikari: You can't be serious.

>>>Shinji: You never saw her apartment.

"It's not fair! We have to fight for the bathroom and Wonder Girl
here will have a huge one all to herself!"
"I could arrange to have you share this apartment with Rei, if you
like," suggested Misato, with a mischievous smile on her face.

>>>Touji: That would lower property cost.

>>>Kensuke: Until they completly destroyed the place.

>>>Touji: Then the surviver could move in wit Shin-man.

So that was her plan! She wanted Asuka to come live with Rei. It was
a tempting idea. After all, our own apartment was a bit small for the
three of us. Four, if we counted Pen-Pen. However, I doubted Asuka would
ever agree to that. Besides, even though she would be right next door, I
was sure I would miss her annoying presence.

>>>Rei: That does not sound right.

>>>Asuka: Annoying!!!

>>>Hikari: What do they mean count Pen-Pen..it lives in a fridge.

"What?! No way will I share an apartment with her!"
"Shinji-kun could share this apartment with me," proposed Rei.
For a few seconds, a deathly silence filled the room, however, an
explosion quickly followed.
"WHAT?! What did you say?"

>>>Rei: Shinji-kun could share this apartment with me.

>>>Touji: But how would you sleep?

>>>Kensuke: Or would you sleep?

>>>Shinji: HEY!

>>>Asuka: I'd sooner break the wall down.

"Shinji-kun could share this apartment with me."
"No way! Never! Over my dead body! I'd rather live here than let him
sleep under the same roof as you!"
"Then it's a deal!" concluded Misato.
"What?" shouted the redhead.

>>>Hikari: Wow, the major can be really sneaky.

>>>Shinji: She's not just an attractive woman.

>>>Kensuke: She's also available.

>>>Rei: She would never think of touching you accept with a cattle prod.

She was obviously more surprised then I. Rei stayed indifferent.
Misato had a huge grin on her face.
"You're not serious, are you?"
"It would be a great opportunity for you two to learn to work as a
team. Like you did with Shinji."

>>>Asuka: What so she can attack me in the night!

>>>Shinji: You're the one that climbed into MY mat!

>>>Asuka: I was sleepwalking and you tried to KISS ME!

>>>Shinji: But you cried about MAMA.

>>>KEnsuke: Neat two shows for price of one.

I, personally, wasn't sure this would be such a good idea. As I
recalled our initial synchronization training, I could also remember how
close that first week had come to being a disaster. If I considered
Asuka's feelings for Rei... the odds were all against them. They could
never become good roommates.
"But... but... no way I'm staying with her! And don't you dare order
me to live with her!"
"I wouldn't do that. Too bad. That would have been such an excellent
opportunity..."

>>>Touji: For her to get at Mega-playboy.

>>>Kensuke: One of them to kill the other?

>>>Asuka: Me to finally prove I'm better.

>>>Shinji: Peace and quiet.

"For you to kick me out?! Just admit it, you don't want me living
with you."
"No, no, Asuka," said Misato with a reassuring smile. "You're always
the one who complains about how small our apartment is. I just offered
you an opportunity to live in a... roomier... place, that's all. I'd
never throw you out. I care too much to do that."
"Really?" asked Asuka, with a mixture of surprise and joy.

>>>Rei: No, but its a convinsing lie.

>>>Asuka: At least she cares enough to lie to me, bet she'd just boot you.

>>>Hikari: Isn't honesty the best thing?

>>>Shinji: At times..other times a lie is the only way to stay alive.

"Really."
The Major then turned her attention to Rei.
"Say, Rei? Will you need any help moving your belongings here?"
"No. Everything is already here."
"Already here?"
Rei pointed toward two boxes in a corner, a little white box and a
bigger brown one. I could guess what was in them. The bigger surely
contained her clothes: socks, panties, bras, a swimsuit, and five school
uniforms, all the same. Maybe also a pair of high heels. The other box
probably contained the dress I had bought her.

>>>Asuka: Good now I know what to destroy.

>>>Hikari: That was a very expensive dress.

>>>Kensuke: And of course Shin-man DIDN'T pick it out.

I couldn't help but smile
in realizing how much she seemed to value it, since she had kept it in a
different box.
"That's all you have?"

>>>Rei: That and the Covert-op gear.

>>>Hikari: What for?

>>>Shinji points to the window.

>>>Hikari nods.

"Yes."
I confirmed this with a nod.
"Hum... you know, Rei, you've got a salary now. Maybe you'd like to
spend it a bit..."
Rei looked a bit confused.
"Spend it?"
"You know... go shopping... buy a thing or two... maybe something
else to wear than those school uniforms. I know! Tomorrow is Saturday
and I'm on night shift! Let's go shopping together!"

>>>Touji: Shinji...whats up?

>>>Shinji: Misato...shopping...bad..bad.

>>>Hikari: It can't be that...

>>>Asuka: IT IS!!!

Rei looked at me. I nodded my approval to the idea. Although I found
the idea a bit scary. Misato helping Rei choose what to wear... However,
she had done a good job with her evening dress.

>>>Kensuke: Then she suggested nightwear.

>>>Shinji blushes: I don't think..

>>>Asuka: Thats normal for a man.

>>>Touji: HEY!

"Very well then, we can go."
"Great! I haven't had the opportunity for a good shopping spree in
ages! Of course, I won't be the one buying..."

>>>Rei: She seems to happy to spend my money.

>>>Shinji: She just takes mine.

>>>Touji: I'd give her every cent I have to let me live there.

>>>Asuka: Oh really?

>>>Touji: OH..you...forgot..no.

"You never ask me to go shopping with you!" said Asuka, obviously
feeling neglected.
"You don't need me to."
Illumination seemed to hit the redhead.
"Yeah... Yeah! You're right! I am mature enough to take care of my
own shopping without a babysitter!"
This didn't seem to bother Rei at all.

>>>Shinji: Nothing seems to.

>>>Rei: You neglecting me does.

>>>Touji: Us insulting you does.

>>>Asuka: What...why are you guys looking at me?

"Feel free to join us, if you wish."
"Me? Go shopping with her? No way. I'll stay here with my dear
Shinji."
Somehow, the thought of spending an entire afternoon alone with
Asuka suddenly felt scary. Besides, I had plans already.
"Actually, I was supposed to go to Touji's..."
"I said you'd stay here with me, Third Children! Don't you forget
you still owe me that 'perfect day' you talked about."

>>>Shinji: Cold..so cold

>>>Hikari: Is it normal for him to get that pale?

>>>Touji: Yeah, look at what just happend.

>>>Asuka: 'Sizes Shinji up' yes...perfect day...alone he he he.

>>>Kensuke: So where do you think she'll hide the body?

I didn't dare object. I still felt guilty about the way our date had
ended.
"Alright... I'll call Touji..."
"That settles it then," concluded Misato. "Tomorrow, I'll pick you
up after school (1). Is it fine with you, Rei?
"It is fine."

>>>Asuka: Of course its ok, its an order.

>>>Rei: I'm a good soldier.

>>>Hikari: ONe way of looking at it.

"Misato-san, you're... you're not going to drive... are you?" I
asked, fearing the worse.
"Of course. Why?"
I shuddered at the thought.

>>>Shinji: Um..Rei, you'll need a change of pants.

>>>Rei: Why?

>>>Asuka: You've never driven with her..you'll understand.

"Rei, maybe you should reconsider... I don't want you to get sick...
or worse... You know how her driving is..."
"Shut up, Shinji!"
Misato gave me the Look. Quickly, I tried to find something to say
that would draw her attention away.
"Say, Rei. You haven't eaten yet, have you?"
"No. I did not have time yet to get anything to eat."
"I still have some noodles and some rice cake left."
"It would be fine. Thank you, Shinji-kun."
Of course, Asuka didn't miss this opportunity to again express her
opinion about Rei's new situation.

>>>Asuka: Great now we have to feed her..put her in a high chair and
>>> she'll be a real doll.

>>>Shinji: I thought I said to stop that.

>>>Touji: Hey, Mega-playboys back!

>>>Asuka looks oddly happy: Finally getting some gumps.

"See! See! I told you she'd impose herself on us! Now we have to
feed her!"
I gave Asuka an upset look.
"I paid for that meal, remember? And I am the one who's invited her.
Besides, you know I would do the same for you."
"You would?"

>>>Touji: He'd do that for a homeless man that pee'd on him

>>>Kensuke: Or his father.

>>>Shinji: Hey..so what if I want to help people.

>>>Touji/Kensuke: Man you suck.

>>>Hikari/Asuka/Rei: Thats why nobody likes you two.

I nodded.
"Then, I guess, it's ok... but after that, you go home, Wonder
Girl!"
"Very well."
"Good!" agreed Asuka, a triumphant look on her face.

>>>Rei: And I'm taking him with me

* * *

Like she had said, Rei returned to her apartment once her meal was
finished. Having nothing better to do, I worked on some of my homework
for most of the night, until I was finally too tired and went to bed. I
quickly fell asleep.

>>>Asuka: HEY! what about my perfect evening!

>>>Rei: I think it went well.

>>>Touji: But nothing happend!

>>>Rei: Exactlly.

That night, something woke me up. My eyes went wide open and my
heart was beating like crazy. Was it a nightmare?

>>>Kensuke: What dreaming of Asuka skinning you?

>>>Asuka: Finding your friends DEAD!

>>>Hikari: Or being like them?

>>>Touji:I'd say Rei kidnapping him and...

>>>Rei: No need.

I didn't think so.
Something was wrong. I could feel it. Then I realized something on my
back was moving. I was about to turn around, when I was suddenly wrapped
by an arm. Startled, I turned around and pushed the intruder off my bed.

>>>Touji: Finally something good.

>>>Shinji: What do you mean?

>>>Kensuke: Some action!

Then, the intruder stood up. I was surprised to realize I was
looking at Rei.
A very naked Rei. Who had been in my bed a few seconds earlier...

>>>Rei: If you don't want to be blinded.

>>>Hikari: I already covered their eyes.

>>>Shinji: Um...what about me?

>>>Asuka: CLOSE THEM!

>>>Rei: He doesn't have to, nothing he hasn't seen.

>>>Shinji blushing but closes his eyes: I don't want to be rude.

>>>Asuka smirks and Rei scowls.

"Rei... Rei-chan..."
I tried not to stare, but my eyes always managed to come back to her
body. Some part of my mind actually took note that Rei's hair was
naturally blue, a fact I had not noticed the first time I had been in a
similar position...

>>>ASuka: You..You...PERVERT!!!

>>>Touji: Man I wanna see this..sounds killing me.

>>>Rei: Better the sound than me.

>>>Shinji: What..did she lift her arm up?

>>>Hikari: Um..Yeah thats what she did..her under....arm.

My cheeks were probably crimson red by now.
"Does this embarrass you?"
I tried to answer, but seeing that my mouth didn't seem to work
right, I nodded violently.

>>>Hikari: Wouldn't that case whiplash?

>>>Kensuke: Ah man..we'r missing..

>>>Rei: Not that.

>>>Shinji sighs in relief.

>>>Rei whispers: unless you ask.

>>>Shinji then..passed out...unceromonisly'

>>>Asuka: What did you say to him?

>>>Hikari: DOn't ask.

She picked up a shirt that I had carelessly left on the floor, since
it was destined to be washed anyway, and quickly put in on.
"Is this better?"
While her nice legs still showed, it did cover the most sensitive
parts of her body. However, the way she had put it on, some skin still
showed. I couldn't help but look at a spot right under her breasts where
she had missed a button and where I could see her pale skin.

>>>Asuka: I still say I'm bigger.

>>>Hikari: I bet she missed that button on purpose!

>>>Rei: If I did? 'said I improved my techique.'

"It certainly looks better on you than on me..."
I was surprised to see her blush. That was strange considering she
had no problem apparently going around in a boy's bedroom naked.
"What... what do you want?"
"I want to sleep with you."
I gulped. Hard.

>>>Asuka: Touji Kensuke OUT!

>>>Kensuke/Touji: WHAT!

>>>Rei: You're jumping to conclusions.

Seeing my reaction, Rei giggled. I still wasn't used to see her have
such reactions.
"You are a naughty boy, Shinji-kun. I said 'sleep', not 'have sex'.
Unless you want to..."
"Well..."

>>>Hikari: Ayanami?

>>>Rei: Than again..but it does not appear Shinji-kun would be willing.

Rei silenced me with a finger.
"I know..."
I couldn't help but to feel quite reassured.
"Why?"
"I could not sleep," Rei answered simply.
"You couldn't sleep?"

>>>Asuka: What to quiet for you, maybe if I put a jackhammer in your room.

>>>Touji: Speaking of jacKAAAA.

>>>Hikari: Thats cruel..he couldn't see it coming.

>>>Asuka: Well he deserved it.

She shook her head.
"It is strange to live here. I feel out of place... and alone."
I could understand how she felt. I used to feel the same way the
first time I had slept under this ceiling. But now it wasn't unfamiliar
anymore. It felt like home. And I now actually enjoyed its sight. And I
hoped Rei would feel the same given time.
"An unfamiliar ceiling. But you are wrong Rei-chan. You're not
alone..." I said as I made room on one side of my bed, then invited her
in.

>>>Hikari: Asuka-chan...the cushion is tearing.

>>>Asuka with death grip on pillow: Kill...ripe apart...

>>>Rei: That will work well.

>>>Shinji wakes: That was a nice nap.

I didn't know if it was a good idea or not, but I knew I couldn't
refuse her. Any fears I could have felt were washed away by the pleading
look on her face.

>>>Hikari: She looks normal.

>>>Asuka: How the hell is that pleading.

>>>Shinji: I'm sorry for whatever I did.

>>>Kensuke: I open my eyes now?

>>>All save Touji: NO!

Whatever the consequences, I would deal with them later.
Again, Rei laid right next to me. With the size of the bed, we had
no choice but to be quite close to each other. We shared the same
pillow, our faces inches from one another.

>>>Asuka: OH this is sick.

>>>Rei: I find it very nice.

>>>Shinji: I wonder what sleeping next to a person is like.

>>>not missing a beat, Asuka/Rei: Shall we find out?

It wasn't really surprising
that we eventually found ourselves locked into a warm embrace,
exchanging deep kisses. It didn't go further than that. I didn't even
think about it. It felt so good being in Rei's arms; so warm, so
comfortable. I didn't need anything more. I quickly fell into a deep and
peaceful sleep...

>>>Shinji: That...was rather deep.

>>>Rei: Why must you keep fearing that.

>>>Asuka: He doesn't want to get sick.

>>>Shinji: Its not that

>>>Rei: I am clean.

>>>Shinji: I know its just....

>>>KEnsuke: Oh bite me, I'm opening my eyes...SHIT its over!

* * *

"Baka! Wake up! I'm hungry!"
Slowly, the pounding on my door dragged me out of my peaceful
slumber. One by one, my senses came online. As seconds passed, I became
aware of a few things. My right arm was completely limp and was under
something heavy. My left arm was holding something. Something big.
Actually, it seemed I was holding someone.

>>>Kensuke: Whow mega-playboy SCORE!!!

>>>Shinji: Don't ruin this...its so..so..

>>>Rei: Perfect..'almost'

>>>Asuka: Perfectly wrong.

Tightly. This was confirmed
when I realized I could feel the tickling sensation of someone's
breathing on my skin, as well as something warm and moist on my neck.

>>>Asuka: Ew! you drool.

>>>Rei: I..don't mean too.

>>>Shinji smiling dumbly: I wonder what its like.

>>>Hikari: Don't say that outloud.

>>>Kensuke: what happend to Touji?

From that point, my eyes went wide open. Once I could actually focus, I
realized I was looking at a blue haired girl.
Rei?

>>>Kensuke: What other blue haired girls sleep in your bed?

>>>Rei: My hair color is copyrighted.

>>>Hikari: Thats not possible is it?

>>>Rei: Nerv has the best lawyers.

For a few seconds, I panicked. Then I remembered what had happened
last night. Rei had slept with me. And apparently, she was still asleep.
Amazing that all that noise Asuka was making didn't wake her up. But
then again, her old apartment had been very noisy, so...
Wait. Asuka. Pounding on my door.

>>>Shinji: Their goes the neighborhood.

>>>Hikari: And I'd say your room.

>>>Kensuke: And your lives.

>>>Rei: Can a door withstand that much pressure?

"Come on! I want breakfast! NOW!"
Again I panicked, but this time, it was justified. Asuka was about
to burst into my room, I just knew it. And if she were to find us like
this...
"I'm dead," I thought.

>>>Shinji: No...it won't be that simple.

>>>Touji: OH my head!

>>>Shinji: 'Shakes his head' never that simple.

My guess proved to be right, as Asuka finally got tired of waiting
and opened my door. I knew it was too late, but I tried to hide Rei
under a blanket. However, from the stunned expression on Asuka's face,
it was clear she'd seen more than what she'd expected.

>>>Asuka: How dumb are you?

>>>Shinji: Well Rei can be rather petit at times.

>>>Rei: Is that a compliment?

>>>Touji: It can be...sometimes.

>>>Rei: Ok.

Surprisingly, a few seconds passed and I was still alive. Asuka had
not moved one inch. If I had been lucky enough, things might not have
been too bad. That was not the case, as Rei chose that moment to finally
wake up.
"Good morning, Shinji."

>>>Shinji: Um..that button..isn't..

>>>Rei blushing: You noticed.

>>>ASuka: 'Damn she did improve her skills.'

Asuka's eyes widened even more. I was surprised myself. It was the
first time Rei had ever called me only Shinji...
Then I was squeezed by a tight hug from the blue haired girl and
before I realized it, she was giving me a very deep kiss.

>>>Rei: That looks pleasing, Shinji.

>>>Shinji: 'Why me' Yes?

>>>Rei: Here.

>>>Touji: Whipped!

>>>Asuka: No its in the room

>>>Hikari: ASUKA!

>>>Rei not paying attention to them litterally floors Shinji with a big one.

>>>KEnsuke: I feel like I should be in here.

>>>Asuka snaps from her shock: STOP THAT!!!

Had I not been
frozen by fear, I would surely have enjoyed it. But my eyes were locked
on Asuka who now looked ready to kill. Rei quickly sensed something was
wrong. She didn't seem perturbed at all by the sight of Asuka.
"You. You should leave. You are obviously disturbing Shinji."

>>>Shinji on floor looking at ceiling.

>>>Kensuke: Doesn't take much to put him under.

>>>Rei: 2nd your disturbing ME!

>>>Asuka: GOOD! I'd like to disturb your neck from your head!

From that moment, Asuka lost any kind of control she had.
"What is SHE doing HERE in your BED!"
"It's... it's not what you think!"
I was shocked to see Asuka lunged herself at Rei.

>>>Touji: Hey Ken..look where her head is.

>>>Kensuke: Hey Shinji..Shinji..Asuka's got her head on..

>>>Rei looking at Asuka: You're the hentai now.

>>>Hikari: I don't think she intended..for that.

She viciously
grabbed Rei's hair and dragged her out of the bed and onto the floor,
completely oblivious to Rei's screams of pain. I tried to say something,
but I just couldn't talk.
"Not what I think? Look at that whore! She's naked under that shirt!
One of YOUR shirts!"

>>>Rei: Eyes.

>>>Touji/Kensuke: Yes ma'am. 'damn it'

>>>Hikari: And him?

>>>Asuka: He's still out of it...but hey 'props him up and plants one on him'

>>>Shinji wakes back up: 'what..ASUKA....and he's out again'

>>>Hikari:that didn't help.

>>>Asuka: Damn he's a good kisser.

"She couldn't sleep. She felt lost and alone... she just slept here,
nothing more!" I finally managed to say as I tried to get up.
Asuka answered by slapping me. Again.

>>>Touji: I didn't see it..but that SOUNDED painful.

>>>Rei: He will need have his neck checked.

"Don't you dare lie to me! I'm not stupid! You damn bastard! You
said..."
Asuka didn't have the chance to finish what she was saying. She fell
hard on the floor, the wind literally blown out of her. I stared in
disbelief. Rei had just punched Asuka hard in the stomach. The blue
haired girl glared at her, anger showing on her face.

>>>Kensuke: What..what happend?

>>>ASuka: You HIT ME, how dare you!

>>>Hikari: Um..Asuka, you hit people all the time.

>>>Asuka: But its fun when I do it.

>>>Rei: That looks enjoyable also.

"You will not hurt me, or Shinji, ever again! I do not wish to fight
you. But if I am forced to, you will regret it."
Down on the floor, Asuka mumbled something totally incoherent. Rei
didn't pay attention. Her eyes were focused on the bruise on my cheek.
Very gently, she touched it.
"Does it hurt?"
"It's okay," I lied. My reaction to her touch convinced her
otherwise.

>>>Hikari: I wonder what # escape that was.

>>>Shinji still dazed: #21.

Slowly, Rei leaned toward me and kissed my hurt cheek.
"It will be better soon. Let's go eat now."
I couldn't help but to look at Asuka on the floor. Rei noticed.
"There is no permanent damage. She will soon recover. We can leave
her here."

>>>Rei: Internal bleeding is not permanent.

>>>Hikari: That can kill somebody.

>>>Touji: Well death would override the bleeding so..

>>>Rei: I am correct.

Trusting Rei, I followed her in the kitchen. Misato was waiting
there, a worried look on her face that changed to a surprised one when
she saw Rei. The Major scrutinized Rei from head to toe, then decided
she needed another beer.

>>>Hikari: You know Ayanami, pants..and underwear are not that expensive.

>>>Rei: I feel liberated like that.

>>>Shinji: I'm dreaming?

>>>Asuka/Rei: No, I kissed you.

>>>Kensuke: To him that is a dream..you two are actin odd due to this movie.

>>>Asuka/Rei: 'No, just tired of waiting'

"So, that's why it was so noisy a few minutes ago," she said as she
took a new can from the fridge.

>>>Touji: The wild passionate sex?

>>>ASuka: You're awake?

>>>Rei: I'd have dragged him to my apartment first.

A few seconds later, the can was empty.
"Sorry," I apologized.
"Can I ask, why you are dressed like that?" asked the Major.
"Shinji did not feel comfortable with me sleeping nude."
Misato looked even more surprised than she had been a few minutes
earlier. But she regained her happy demeanor.

>>>Shinji: Nothing really phases her for long.

>>>Asuka: She was devistated when she dropped that bottle of saki though.

>>>Rei: And when the nerv ball ran out of liqure.

>>>Shinji: Non-alcohol related events don't phase her long.

"No wonder, if we consider that he used to complain about the way I
dress in the apartment. You're definitely more indecent now than I've
ever been," she said with a smile.
"I see," said Rei simply and apparently unconcerned by her state of
undress.

>>>Shinji: Fortunatly you haven't.

>>>Touji: Why...why must you get all the luck.

>>>Kensuke: Its not fair. why does the guy that doesn't care get the babes!

>>>Hikari: Because perverts don't make good boy-friends.

Personally, I was feeling quite embarrassed and felt the need to
give Misato a few more explanations.
"Rei couldn't sleep in her new apartment. We only slept in the same
room. Nothing more."
Silently, I prayed that Rei wouldn't mention that we actually shared
my bed. And with a lot of luck, Asuka wouldn't talk about that.
"Umm... well, I guess then we'll have to include in our shopping
list a pajama or something else you can wear when you sleep here.
Although, it would be preferable that you try to get used to your new
apartment. There's been enough trouble for now."

>>>Rei: But I want company.

>>>Asuka: Tuff, go sleep alone.

>>>Touji: I wonder, Ayanami do you...

>>>Rei: I prefere not to talk about it.

>>>Shinji feels odd suddently.

>>>Asuka/Rei: 'Nerv brand pilot doll, need a new one though'

"I agree."
"Great! Now that this is settled... Shinji? Where's my breakfast?"
Misato gave me the Look. I gulped. A few seconds later, I had my
apron on and was fixing a quick meal. Eventually, Asuka showed up. She
was very clearly still angry, but didn't say a word.

>>>Hikari/Asuka: Wise choice.

>>>Shinji: I've learned my lesson..a great deal of times.

I couldn't help but
be afraid. If she kept control now, that meant she would start yelling
at me the instant Rei and Misato left.
What a day... and it had only barely begun....

* * *

Surprisingly enough, the day had not been as bad as I expected.
Asuka managed to calm down a lot once Rei had left our apartment to get
ready for her day. By the time we were both ready to leave for the
Saturday morning classes (1),

>>>Touji: I hate those..all the good shows are on Saterday mornings.

>>>Hikari: You still watch those!

>>>Asuka/Shinji/Kensuke: H HAHAHAHAHA

>>>Rei: You are childish.

Asuka was more or less back to her usual
self, although she seemed intent on not talking to me for a while.
Thankfully, Misato decided to see Rei so the two of them could have a
little discussion, most likely about what had happened last night, so we
walked to school without our new neighbor. We were half way to school
when I finally decided to clear things up.
"You know... I wasn't lying... nothing happened..."
Asuka stopped. Realizing she wasn't at my side anymore, I turned
around and looked at her. I had expected her to be angry again but she
didn't. Actually, she looked strangely calm.
"I know. I heard what you said to Misato. I guess I should have
trusted you more."

>>>Shinji: What..what happend to you Asuka?

>>>Asuka: I can be nice if I want to...really nice 'gives him a sultry smile.'

>>>Shinji gets lost in the look.

>>>Hikari: I feel so sorry for him.

>>>Touji: Why because people can manipulate him at a drop of a hat?

"Well, appearances weren't good..."
"That's true. But still... I'm sorry."
I couldn't help but to stare at her in disbelief. Asuka Sohryu
Langley. Apologizing?
"It's ok..." I only managed to say.
That was enough to make her smile. She looked at her watch and
realizing that we could be late, she grabbed my arm and dragged me all
the way to school at high speed.

>>>Touji: IF he gets winded talking..what will that do to him?

>>>Asuka: He needs to sit down for an hour to two or he'll pass out.

* * *

We ate lunch alone, since Misato had picked up Rei right after
school. After lunch, Asuka dragged me in front of the tv, where she
introduced me to a new video game system she had apparently bought
during my secluded period.

>>>Hikari: Finally I can play mine again.

>>>Asuka: Yeah, but I'll need to borrow some of your games.

>>>Hikari: Which ones?

>>>Asuka: All of um, but you shouldn't mind.

>>>Hikari: No I won't I'll just come over and play um.

>>>Rei: I sense a hidden motive.

Having nothing better to do, she handed me a
joystick and proceeded to virtually beat the crap out of me through some
fighting game. I guessed she was probably still a bit angry about last
night, because she kept killing me in very bloody and painful looking
ways.

>>>Touji: Can the body bend that way?

>>>Asuka: Yes it can, right Shinji?

>>>Shinji simply nods.

>>>Kensuke: Wonder what he did to deserve that.

>>>Rei: Spoke out of turn most likely.

Once she actually got bored of killing me,

>>>Asuka: We played that long!

>>>Shinji: Two days of playing!

we got out a bit,
taking a walk to a park nearby, having really nothing else to do. We
came back around two thirty in the afternoon to realize that Misato
hadn't come back yet, which wasn't that surprising, since that wouldn't
have given much time for Misato and Rei to shop.

>>>Kensuke: And we know how girls shop.

>>>Touji/Kensuke: Like no tomarow.

>>>Hikari/Asuka: WHAT!!!

After all, girls always
seemed to need several hours for that kind of stuff. Out of options, we
reluctantly proceeded to do some of our homework.

>>>Asuka: Thats not FAIR! whenever he's with wondergirl its lip-city!

>>>Touji: Yeah...damn I needed that money too.

>>>Rei: I believe this perfectly fair and accurate.

An hour later, I was
tutoring Asuka kanji. We had been working for a while when our session
was suddenly interrupted by the entrance of Misato.

>>>Touji: And what an entrance!

>>>Kensuke: She just makes every room a party.

She had that silly
grin on her face. I just knew she was about to ask for my help.
"Hello you two. Had a good day?"
"Oh yeah! A great day!"
Asuka sounded a bit too enthusiastic. She probably didn't want to
admit that she would have liked to have gone with Misato on that
shopping trip. She had mentioned it a few times. Well, it was her fault.
Misato had asked her if she wanted to tag along.

>>>Asuka: But I expected YOU do actually use some of that new spine of yours!!

>>>Hikari: And do what? 'smirking.'

>>>Asuka: Um..ah..you know.

>>>Shinji: No I don't.

>>>Kensuke/Touji: Thats normal.

"Say Shinji, can you do Rei and me a favor? We've left some packages
in the car. Can you bring them to Rei's apartment? I'll be there with
her unpacking her stuff..."

>>>Touji: You know the whips, chains, beer...

>>>Asuka: More like half a dozen new school uniforms.

>>>Rei: I do need more the last few have been soiled.

Even if I would have liked to say no, I wouldn't have been able to.
So I just nodded and took the key to her car she was handing me. Soon,
we were all out of the apartment; Misato going to Rei's and Asuka
strangely following me.
"Why are you following me?"

>>>Rei: To make sure you never make it back up the stairs again.

>>>Asuka: Could take him and run, not like he'd be much a fight.

>>>Touji: I'd say she was going to take him to a quickie motel and stake her claim.

>>>Kensuke: Or just stake him.

"Well, to help you of course!"
That was weird. Asuka, wanting to help me? She never helped around
the house. She only helped me from time to time with physics and maths
because she needed my tutoring with the kanji she didn't know.

>>>Asuka: Hey I paid you for that.

>>>Shinji: You did no such thing, all you did was stand over me.

>>>Asuka: Of coarse I let you take a peek at me.

>>>Touji: Mega-playboy!!

>>>Rei: That is why my attempt failed.

>>>Hikari: Did you say something Ayanami?

"Are... are you feeling alright?"
"Of course! Why do you ask?"
"Well, you're suddenly nice and helpful..."
"What? I'll have you know I can be nice sometimes, Third Children!
I'm a very nice and helpful person! But if you don't want my help..."

>>>Touji: Oh man she's just so EVIL!

>>>Asuka: Shut up, I'm being nice.

>>>Rei: No your using reverse psycology on one that will try be nice to all.

>>>Shinji: Its a character flaw.

She was about to go when I took hold of her wrist.
"Thank you, Asuka."
Her temper suddenly went down and she was now slightly blushing.
When we got to the car, I realized it was a blessing that Asuka had
decided to help me. I couldn't believe how many boxes and bags Misato
had managed to put in her car. Alone, I would never have been able to
carry all of this.
"Mein Gott! Did they buy the whole shopping mall?"

>>>Shinji: Knowing Misato-san's shopping habits.

>>>Asuka: Yes.

>>>Kensuke: And looks like she enjoys spending other peoples money.


Exactly my thought. I had been afraid of this. Misato had probably
spent Rei's entire pay. And our next payday wasn't even close... I would
need to have a talk with Rei about money and how to use it more wisely.

>>>Rei: Why me, it is Major Katsuragi that seems not to know, but if you
>>> insist come to my apartment and do so..

>>>Asuka: I say we give you a pamphlet and call it done.

>>>Touji: Ken could tape it and then sell it and nobody would need worry about
>>> money again.

I tried to give what seemed to be the lighter packages to Asuka,
then took the rest. It was a a very difficult task to carry everything
back to Rei's apartment. Luckily, most of the stuff seemed to be
clothing, so dropping one probably wouldn't be too much of a problem.

>>>Shinji: That doesn't sound right. cloths get dirty very easy.

>>>Asuka: You can't even carry cloths easy, you are a wuss.

>>>Touji:But look at all that shiznit! I couldn't even carry it.

At
least, that was what I hoped. But I eventually managed to get everything
upstairs without mishap.
Upon entering Rei's apartment, I first noticed that Asuka seemed to
be in a state of shock. Then I just dropped everything when I saw what
had caused such a reaction.

>>>Asuka: Misato killed Rei!

>>>Touji: COULD IT BE!!

>>>Kensuke: Hot action bette...sorry.

>>>Rei: 'Nods' you are thinking, better.

Rei was standing in the living room, an intrigued look on her face,
probably wondering what was Asuka's problem. She was dressed in a simple
combination of a very tight black pair of trousers and a black sweater.
She also wore around her neck a long chain that went almost down her
waist where laid a silver cross, most probably inspired by the cross
Misato always wore. In short, we had here a stunning Rei dressed in
simple casual clothes.

>>>Shinji: Kawaii!!!

>>>Touji: Man, all that black..makes it look like she's glowing.

>>>Kensuke: She's just so PALE!!

>>>Asuka: She's a Freak! and what do you mean CUTE!

>>>Rei:He knows how to appreciate a well dressed woman.

>>>Asuka: Then why asn't it me?

>>>Hikari: It is a rather deep color clash.

Having already seen Rei in an even more unusual outfit, at least for
her, it didn't take me long to overcome the initial shock. Besides, I
was now getting used to being surprised by Rei. Asuka on the other hand,
was still out of this world.

>>>Touji: And thats odd how?

>>>Kensuke: He said other not etheral.

>>>Asuka: Its...its..just not right!

"That looks good on you, Rei-chan. I like it a lot," I complimented
her.
Rei blushed, while Misato beamed with joy and pride.
"See Rei! I told you he'd like that! You really look cute in this
outfit."
"Very cute," I agreed.

>>>Asuka: Bile...rising..in my throat.

>>>Rei beeming: Even that Shinji-kun knows beuty.

>>>Shinji: Um..you two its just a movie, you're getting way out of control.

This proved to be a mistake as it was just what Asuka needed to get
back to her senses.
"Cute? You find her cute?"
I froze under her angry glare. I only managed to nod.
"Misato! How could you? Are you trying to make my life harder?"

>>>Touji: I'd say, yes.

>>>Kensuke: That or wants her to kill herself.

>>>Hikari: thats a bit harsh.

Misato wanted to answer, but was cut by Rei's words.
"Why are you jealous?"
"Jealous?! I wouldn't be jealous of you!"
"But you are. You are jealous of my relationship with Shinji."

>>>Asuka: What relationship! dork boy looking funny at you or you
>>> trying to seduce him.

>>>KEnsuke: Yeah, that sounds just like you Asuka.

>>>Touji: Yeah score high five 'slaps his hand'

>>>Rei: Jealous.

>>>Shinji: Thats mean.

"No way I'm jealous! Why would I care about this stupid jerk?"
I couldn't help but feeling hurt by those words. All along, Asuka
had given me the impression that she did care. Was it only my
imagination, some wishful thinking?

>>>Rei/Kensuke: Yes.

>>>Touji: I...don't know.

>>>Asuka: You suck! common you baka you know me!

>>>Shinji: Yeah, thats why I don't know myself.

"Then you have no reason to object to our relationship. There is no
reason why he could not be my boyfriend."
"Never! I'll be dead when he becomes your boyfriend!"
"Then you care."
"I don't!"

>>>Rei: You are easy to manipulate.

>>>Asuka: What, how dare you!

>>>Touji: Who's easier to mess with Asuka or Shinji?

>>>Kensuke: Shinji, Asuka just can't admit anything.

>>>Shinji: Hey, you're my friends right?

Asuka looked at Rei, then at me, with a confused expression on her
face.
"If you cannot be honest with him or even yourself, you do not
deserve more attention than he would give to a mere friend. I love him,
and I have told him. Have you done the same?"
"Of course not!"

>>>Rei: Good, I win, renounce your claim.

>>>Asuka: Hell no! he's MINE.

>>>Hikari: So you're a side of beef now?

>>>Touji: Beefcake!

>>>Shinji: Surely looks like it.

"Then you have no claim. I am sure Shinji will appreciate that you
do not interfere with us anymore."
Asuka just stood there, at a loss for words. She looked at me. Her
eyes seemed tortured, as if a great battle was raging inside her. She
looked about to say something, but her lips just stopped and the next
thing I knew, she was storming out of Rei's place.

>>>Hikari: Borrowing from the book of Shinji?

>>>Asuka: Oh now that was dignified.

>>>Shinji: You're almost as good as I am at excaping from troubles.

I was still looking
at the door when Rei came close to me and hugged me from behind. Her
chin rested on my shoulder.

>>>Hikari: That looks so cute.

>>>Asuka: Like a clip on doll.

>>>Rei: Jealous.

"You should not worry about her. If she cannot even say that she
loves you, than she cannot be more then a friend."
What Rei said made sense. And it would solve my problems. But why
couldn't I be happy about it?

>>>Rei: Yes why?

>>>Kensuke: Make us all alot happier.

>>>Touji: Speak for yourself.

>>>Asuka: Ah true love blooms through.

>>>Shinji: Maybe I don't like seeing people hurt?

>>>Touji/Kensuke: Na! to easy.

Why did I feel hurt? Weren't Rei's words
of love enough for me?
As if she had read my mind, Rei held me tighter in a warm and
comforting embrace.
Maybe it was just best not to think about it for now.

>>>Rei: Or ever again.

>>>Hikari: You're worried, aren't you.

>>>Asuka; Is that even possible?

"I think we should order take-out. It wouldn't be a good idea to go
eat next door," I just said.
"Then that means I've got to cook tonight..." complained Misato as
she left the apartment.
Poor Asuka. It seemed things would get even worse for her.

>>>Shinji: Why not order the take-out to be delivied to Rei's apartment?

>>>Touji: Maybe she wants to leave you two alone...to get..comfortable.

>>>Kensuke: Ayanami already looks comfortable.

>>>Rei: That I do.

============================================================== =========

Chapter 5 - The more things change, the more they stay the same

Part 2: Into the Darkness

>>>Touji: Without a light.

>>>Shinji: Just burn the alcholol.

Project E
Third Children Observation Report
February 29th, 2016

[It's interesting to see how the recent events changed Shinji.
Obviously, he now has a greater confidence in himself,

>>>Touji: To bad that didn't transfer to you.

>>>Shinji: 'looking at Asuka and Rei' Agreed.

most likely the
result of his confrontation with the Commander and his relationship with
both Asuka and Rei. While he is still the introvert type, you can feel a
definite air of confidence in him. And this had impressive results on
today's harmonic tests. Those literally skyrocketed, his results now
being a whole 10 points higher then Asuka.

>>>Asuka: BASTARD!!

>>>Shinji: I didn't do it intentionally.

>>>Rei: So you've already been beaten, how convenient.

I had my doubts at first. But now, I believe this situation can
actually be beneficial. If only Asuka and Rei could learn to get
along... Unfortunately, Asuka now seems to have switched roles with
Shinji.

>>>Touji: So she's being seduced by Shinji now?

>>>Asuka: He'd never have the guts.

>>>Shinji: Maybe somebodies smacking you alot?

She was obviously very shaken by the fact that Shinji has broken
her record. And her war with Rei isn't helping.

>>>Touji: And the causulities are rising.

>>>Kensuke:The city trembles with the Rei and Asuka forces battling for
>>> supremicy (take that you rei-fans...asuka-fans)

I'd really wish Shinji would settle his choice on one of them. And
it's very selfish to say, but I almost hope it would be Asuka...]

>>>Asuka: I knew I liked her!

>>>Rei: Traitorous adulterour beerswilling ...

>>>Asuka: So stooges who do you side with now?

>>>Touji/Kensuke: Must side with Misato..Must side...

- - -

"Come on, Asuka... you can't still be angry at that? I didn't beat
your record on purpose..."
"That's what's annoying me! You didn't even try! You just did it
like it was the most natural thing in the world!"

>>>Hikari: Some people are born with natural skills.

>>>Rei: Don't tell her that, took you how long to sync?

>>>Asuka grumbling: About a year.

I had hoped that a good night's sleep would have calmed Asuka.
Obviously, it was not the case.
"That was just luck. I'll probably score lower on the next test."
"I don't want you to try and cheer me up!"
"Then do not act this way," Rei said suddenly. "True, you have been
beaten. It is now up to you to regain what you have lost."

>>>Touji: That almost sounds like a work of encouragement.

>>>Rei: Slight laps in mentalality.

With all the argument, both Asuka and I had forgotten about Rei. She
had kept silent until now. For a while, I almost believed she wasn't
even listening, that she just sat there and ate breakfast as if she was
alone in the kitchen.
"You know, Rei-chan is right,"

>>>Asuka: CHAN! CHAN!! I'll give you chan Jackie Chan! 'attacks Shinji'

>>>Touji: Ken, you know all bout old stuff, who's Jachie Chun?

>>>Kensuke: Chan, old martial artist/movie star.

I said myself, realizing Rei did
indeed have a point. "You were our top pilot until now. Surely, all you
need is to train a bit more and you'll beat me again in no time. You
are, after all, the best EVA pilot we have."
I noticed a quick frown on Rei's face,

>>>Asuka: I am the best 'lets go of Shinji and drops him back down with a peck
>>> on the cheek'

>>>Rei: Only because you've had more time.

>>>Hikari: You've been with Nerv longer though Ayanami.

>>>Rei: Not necesarrily.

but it disappeared as quickly
as it had appeared. She just kept eating her rice and toast without a
word. I knew that she didn't completely agree with what I had said, but
Dr. Akagi had once told me that our synch ratio depended on our will and
mind only,

>>>Asuka: So thats why Wondergirls sucks so much, not much a mind 'smirks'

>>>Rei: 'Mental note: bide time until she's under foot. literally unit-00's'

that it was all mental and psychological. So, if Asuka truly
believed she was indeed the best and worked hard to earn back that
position, she just might succeed.
"Maybe you're right... I am the best after all."

>>>Hikari: Doesn't take much to convince you sometimes.

>>>Shinji: NOt when its about her.

She didn't look very convinced. Those last words lacked the usual
strength that we used to feel in them.

>>>Kensuke: The slaps?

"You should eat before it gets cold," I told her, pointing at the
untouched stack of pancakes right in front of her, trying to get her
mind on something else.
Without much spirit, Asuka cut up a piece of pancake and put it in
her mouth. Then her eyes lit up and she took another bite.

>>>Rei: The strick 9 finally kicked in?

>>>Kensuke: That or the electric cable.

>>>Shinji: You two are kidding..right?

"This is good! Wow, you've really outdone yourself today, Shinji!
This is way better than your usual cooking!"
Ravenously, the redhead started to wolf down her meal.

>>>Shinji blushes.

>>>Touji: Ken..look at that.

>>>Kensuke: Whats on your mind Shin-man.

>>>Rei/Hikari: Yeah, WHAT!

"Actually, I didn't make them, Rei did. I taught her how to make
those this morning. But you're right. They are delicious!"
"Thank you," said a now slightly blushing Rei.
Asuka almost choked on her last bite.

>>>Asuka: I'll be right back..need to take care of something.

>>>Shinji: Sit down, you didn't eat anything and you're not going in the
>>> bathroom.

>>>ASuka: WHAT, what gives you the..right.to...

>>>Shinji takes his hand off her calf: 'That actually worked!!'

>>>Kensuke: WOW!

"What? Wonder Girl made those? And you said you taught her how to
make pancakes this morning?"
I nodded. I suddenly wondered if I should have kept quiet about
breakfast.
"Why show her how to cook? She's not even eating her own damn
pancakes!"

>>>Shinji: Odd, why cook if you don't eat?

>>>Rei: For you.

>>>Kensuke: Obsessive desire to make goods?

>>>Touji: You're an idiot?

"Well, I thought it would be nice if she knew how to cook a few
things other then instant... and... well... she asked me."
"Asked you?"
"Yes. As his fiancee,

>>>Asuka/Touji/Kensuke/Hikari: FIANCEE!

>>>Shinji: Oh my!

>>>Rei: That is an idea.

it is only natural that I should know how to
cook the meals Shinji likes."
"Fiancee?" both Asuka and I shouted in perfect synchronization.
"Yes. It should be a matter of time before we are engaged."

>>>Hikari: Go right for the finish line don't you.

>>>Rei: Straight line is often best.

>>>Shinji: I feel odd.

>>>Touji: PARTY!!

>>>Kensuke: Lets get Misato-san as the stripper!

This was something I had not expected. I had not even chosen yet one
of them and Rei was already assuming that I'd ask her to marry me... and
with the way Asuka was glaring at me... I probably looked as white as a
ghost.

>>>Kensuke: TWINS!

>>>Hikari: You know..

>>>Rei: No I DON'T know.

Then, the phone rang. What perfect timing! Eagerly, I escaped this
awkward situation to answer it. I almost regretted I did. Rei understood
just by seeing the expression of worry on my face.

>>>Rei: The 2nd.

>>>Asuka: The 2nd what?

>>>Rei: Thats it, just the 2nd.

"An Angel..."

>>>Touji: Who named them angels anyway?
* * *

From inside the EVA entry plug, I could hear Misato through the comm
system.
"Asuka, Shinji, Rei, can you hear me?"
We replied in chorus.

>>>Touji: Ah Eva sings, that would be one shitty album.

>>>Asuka: What do you mean I have a wonderful singing voice.

>>>Hikari: Still.

"I've sent you all data on the target. At present time, we have
nothing further. Approach with caution, observe its reaction, and, if
possible, try to lure it outside the urban area."

>>>Shinji: With what, an sinner!

>>>Kensuke: I must convert the HETHEN!

"All right, Major," Asuka said happily. "But don't you think that
Shinji ought to take the point position?"
"Huh?"
That was odd. Asuka was declining the opportunity to lead us?

>>>Rei: Finally giving up, good.

>>>Hikari: Alteriour motive?

>>>Touji: For him to die?

>>>Asuka: Bite me.

"Well, it's only natural that we should be lead by the number one
synchro-ratio holder, don't you think? Or have you no confidence,
Shinji?"

>>>Kensuke: Who say's he has no confidence?

>>>All but Asuka and Rei raise their hands.

>>>Asuka/Rei: 'He better have confidence'

This time I could feel the teasing in her voice. I thought about
replying, but decided against it at the last second. No need to make her
already slightly depressed mood worse.
"Alright. Asuka, Rei, back me up."
"What the...?" shouted Asuka.

>>>Asuka/Rei: I knew it.

>>>Shinji: I actually did it?

>>>Touji: Kick ass, maybe this new and improved Shin-man will get some and we can
>>> see it!

>>>Hikari lets out an eep but covers it.

"It was your idea Asuka. Too late now."
"Damn! Unit-02 will back him up."
"Unit-00 will back him up as well."

* * *

Surely it was indeed an Angel. A weird one at that. Only a floating
black and white sphere hovering above Tokyo-3. From my position I had a
clear shot. No way I could miss it.

>>>Touji: Attack of the flying marble.

>>>Kensuke: The zebra marble.

>>>Shinji: Get my my shooter and I'll knock it out of the town.

"Rei, Asuka. Are you there yet?"
"Not yet," was Rei's soft reply over the comm system.
"Baka! You know an EVA can't move that fast!"

>>>Shinji: Looks like Unit-01 can.

>>>Asuka/Rei: So?

>>>Hikari: Guess Shinji-kun is fairly good at piloting.

Damn! I really didn't like this. I couldn't help thinking about the
Fifth Angel. That one too had been a simple shape floating over Tokyo-3.
It had nearly killed me and later Rei. Who could tell when this one
would strike?

>>>Shinji: Bet that bastard father of mine could.

>>>Touji: How could he know about the angels?

>>>Kensuke: Yeah like some ratty old book or something can tell ya that!

>>>Rei looks at the screen.

"Aren't you here yet?" I asked more to myself than to the others.
My finger was nervously playing with the trigger of Unit-01's
weapon, something that could pass as a giant handgun. I really didn't
like this. Really didn't...

>>>Asuka: Want Wondergirl living next door?

>>>Rei: Not want to shoot the entry plug of unit-02

>>>Touji: Want away from to obsessed freaks.

"Maybe I should just try and kill it myself..."
Moving the EVA slightly out of its hiding place, I aimed its weapon
toward it. However, I couldn't resolve myself to fire without Misato's
order.
"Damn..."
If Asuka had been in my place, that thing would probably dead by
now... How did she managed to make such drastic decisions?

>>>Asuka: I'm just blessed with good instincts.

>>>Shinji: And you don't care what happens.

>>>Asuka: Not if it means getting what I want 'bats her eyelashes at him.'

I was about to fire when suddenly the target just... vanished. Then
I heard Hyuga over the comm system.
"Pattern blue. Angel detected directly beneath Unit-01."
"What?"

>>>Touji: A.K.A. you're fucked.

>>>Shinji: Thats normal.

>>>Kensuke: We'll take care of things.

>>>Rei/Asuka: NO YOU WON'T.

I looked down to see a black circle appear on the street just under
Unit-01.
"A... a shadow?"
Then I was almost frozen by fear when I felt the EVA slowly sink
into that thing.
"Ah! What's this? What the hell is happening? My God! I'm... I'm
sinking!"

>>>Hikari: Bet that make storage handy.

>>>Shinji: Their working on it, from the..what was it?

>>>Rei: Warner-Brothers line, they call it a sink-hole.

>>>Kensuke: That name sounds OLD.

Panicking, I emptied the clip of my weapon into the target. With no
result. The EVA kept sinking. I tried to move out of that trap, but the
EVA's legs wouldn't move an inch. Whatever I was sinking into, it was
just too thick to move...
I could hear Misato and the girls screaming frantically over the
comm.
"Shinji-kun, run! Shinji-kun!"
"Shinji!"
"Baka! What are you doing?"

>>>Shinji: Looks like getting eaten to me.

>>>Kensuke: I think he'd move if he could.

I couldn't answer. I couldn't even think straight. I was just
panicking, screaming for help. Now I couldn't move the EVA's arms
either. Soon, the head would be swallowed as well. Then... what would
happen to me?

>>>Kensuke: See that bright light, its called you're new home.

>>>Touji: Or that really hot dark place.

>>>Hikari: How doyou know he'll die?

"Eject plug! Send the signal!"
"No use. There's no response."
"Misato-san! Misato-san!"
Was this it? Would I... die?
Afraid, I closed my eyes. I only opened them once I realized that I
couldn't feel the EVA sinking anymore, nor hear anything but static over
the comm system. Outside, the only thing I could see was a blinding
white light

>>>Kensuke: See that Hikari I was right.

>>>Hikari: Are you sure?

that forced me to switch off the external cameras. None of
the monitors could detect anything. It was as if I was floating in
nothingness.
"Am I dead?"

>>>Shinji; My death is really kinda boring.

>>>Touji: Like the rest of your life's a party?

>>>Shinji knudges toward his fellow pilots.

>>>Touji: Have a point.

My only answer came from the emergency battery monitor. The EVA had
just lost all external power. Again, I panicked. But this time, I
managed to think about my training. After losing some precious fifteen
seconds of power, I switched to life-support-mode. Everything went
suddenly dark and silent. There was nothing here now but me.

>>>Shinji: I ate the LcL?

>>>Kensuke: And the Eva.

I wasn't sure if I had done the right thing. I had a hard time
fighting the urge to reactivate power. Life-support-mode implied being
vulnerable, as Unit-01 wasn't protected by its AT Field anymore, not to
mention that I couldn't detect any incoming adversaries.

>>>Hikari: So he's in heaven and worried about being attacked?

>>>Shinji: Maybe the angels had friend?

If something
was out there, I was at its mercy. However, no doubt that if there was
indeed something out there, it would have attacked already.
"I'm really in trouble this time..."

>>>Shinji: In trouble in the Eva, in trouble out of it.

>>>Kensuke: You're life sucks.

>>>Asuka/Rei: Why?

* * *

Inside the EVA, I waited. That was the only thing I could do. Wait.
But what was I waiting for? To be rescued, or did I wait for my
inevitable death?

>>>Rei: That would be a pointless wait.

>>>Asuka: At least he CARES about life.

"I never thought doing nothing could be so exhausting."
I knew, of course, that no one could hear me, but I needed to hear a
voice, even if it was only mine.

>>>Asuka: And waist oxygen.

Briefly, I activated the EVA's monitors. Nothing. Not even noise. No
answer whatsoever from the radar and sonar. I was tempted to activate
the external cameras, but I knew I would only see white light.
It had been twelve hours since I had switched to the life-support-
mode. Which meant I only had four or five hours of power left. After
that... my life would end.

>>>Asuka: You'd..really die wouldn't you.

>>>Rei: What..would I do.

>>>Hikari wipe a tear: This is rather touching.

>>>Touji:What he's just going to die.

>>>Shinji: Don't you have any compassion?

My stomach growled. How ironic. I was about to die and all that
stupid body could think of was food. Like this wasn't torture enough.
"This really sucks..."

>>>Kensuke: Just like they ...

>>>Asuka/Rei: Who gave you the option to talk?

* * *

I woke up with a start. Maybe I just had a nightmare. In any case, I
immediately panicked. The quality of the LCL was deteriorating, probably
due to a decrease of the purification capacity. Breathing was harder.
But the worst was the smell. Blood. The smell of blood. I almost choked
at the thought of this liquid filling my lungs.

>>>Shinji: This is getting rather depressing.

>>>Asuka sniffs: OH..be..a man..an..and...

>>>Hikari: It is isn't it.

>>>Rei: 'Mental note-Don't let Shinji get hurt ever'

"It smells in here! Blood, it smells like blood! I... I hate this
place!"
Scared, I tried to open the hatch of the entry plug. But to no
avail, of course, since the plug was still in EVA.

>>>Kensuke: And if you did open it what then?

>>>Shinji: Eat my way out of the Eva.

"Why can't I open this lock! Open! Let me out! Misato-san! Misato-
san! Asuka! Rei!!"
I was crying now. I just couldn't help it. I was helpless.
"Ritusko-san... Father... Please, help me..."

>>>Shinji: NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!! 'faints'

>>>Touji: DAMN! I think I lost hearing in my left ear.

>>>Asuka: Show some sympathy 'smacks him.'

>>>Touji: Its a miracle I can hear again!

Pleading for my father's help. After all he'd done, all he'd tried
to do. I didn't want to, but I couldn't stop. I was so scared, so
alone...
Sometimes I disgust myself.

>>>Asuka: And the rest of us.

>>>Rei: Speak for yourself.

>>>KEnsuke: But nothing affects you.

I eventually calmed down, resigned to my fate, no strength left.
"I'm gonna die..."

* * *

I must have fallen asleep again. Surely, I must have, because, even
after years to think back about that moment, this the only conclusion I
can come to.

>>>Kensuke: Years to think about it?

>>>Asuka: Hey! this is told in past tense.

>>>Rei: Which means we all live.

>>>Asuka: Cool.

I'm pretty sure this was all a dream. It must have been a
dream. Either that or I came pretty close to losing my mind.

>>>Hikari: Normal for Shinji-kun, considering the situation.

I wasn't in the EVA entry plug anymore. I was sitting in a
streetcar, heading toward some unknown destination. Facing me, I could
see a young boy, maybe five years old. Shadows hid his face from me.
"Who? Who are you?"

>>>Kensuke: A reason why you don't use LSD?

The young boy leaned over toward me. I recognized the dark blue
eyes. They were mine. But strangely, I wasn't scared. More reasons to
think that this was probably just a dream.
'I am you.'
"Me?"

>>>Touji: Bet that solve you're problems wouldn't it.

>>>Asuka/Rei: I get the original.

>>>Hikari: Guess not.

'Yes, you. I am your hopes and dreams.'
"Hopes? Dreams? I've forgotten what those words meant a long time
ago."
'Because Father abandoned us? Is that reason enough to lose all
hopes?'
"I'm bad. He never loved me. To him, I'm only a tool to use. I'm
sure he never wished that I existed! Nobody ever did!"

>>>Touji: Bet its a good thing he's asleep.

>>>Hikari: Isn't this kinda rude of us watching this?

>>>Asuka/Rei: Why?

>>>Kensuke: Duh! its only his innermost mind!

'Mother loved us.'
"Mother is gone!"
'Still, you are wrong. There are people who care for us.'
Briefly, the faces of Rei, Asuka, Misato and Kaji appeared in my
mind. Then those of Touji, Kensuke, Hikari.
'Our family and friends.'

>>>Touji: Man..he actually thinks highly of us?

>>>Kensuke: Man he has shit for a up-bringing.

>>>Asuka: Baka..could have said something about this..stupid baka 'I've been so hard
>>> on the lil freak..and well...'

>>>Rei: I will make more effort to comfort him.

>>>Hikari: Don't think he needs it now.

"They only do because there's no one else around. They just need a
pilot! Sooner or later, they'll find someone better and leave me behind
like Father did!"
'You are only deceiving yourself.'
Briefly, I heard words in my mind.
*You've done something admirable today. You can be proud of
yourself.*
Misato had said that after my first battle inside EVA.
*Good work, Shinji.*

>>>Rei: Does not take much to make him happy.

>>>Touji: With all that shit, doesn't suprize me.

>>>kensuke: A happy meal would make him weep for joy.

Father had praised me after the destruction of the Tenth Angel.
*You've grown up, Ikari Shinji.*
Words said by Kaji after my failed date with Asuka.
'Why would these people think we have value if we are useless like
you seem to think?'
I didn't know what to say.
'Would a coward have stood proudly before Father?'

>>>Asuka/Rei: NO!

>>>Touji: Would a wuss give me a black eye.

>>>Kensuke: That was hillarious.

*Better we all die living our own lives rather than live and be your
or anyone else's pawns.*
"..."
'What about Rei-chan and Asuka-chan? They care for us. They desire
us.'

>>>Shinji: 'wakes' Sorry bout that what did I miss.

>>>All: NOthing.

*Ikari. Do you want to become one with me?*
*Would you like to have sex with me?*

>>>Shinji: Oh my! 'faints at the idea.'

>>>Kensuke: Guess you two will need be more sutle.

>>>Rei: Understood.

>>>Asuka: Like I'd even....'you know..he does kiss like a wild man'

I didn't know what to think.
"I'll just hurt them..."
*LEAVE ME ALONE!*
I still could picture Asuka's tears in my mind. How long before I
would make Rei cry too?

>>>Kensuke: He worries alot.

>>>Asuka: Baka.

>>>Rei: He is over sensitive but, it is really pleasent.

"I'm just using them like Father uses everybody at NERV! I'm no
better then him!"
*I see. So you're going to play around with both of us until you
decide, is that it?*
Asuka was right. I was just a jerk.

>>>Touji: And the winner of the kick yourself in the crotch until you puke blood is..

>>>kensuke: SHINJI IKARI!

'But they care for you. They love you.'
*Shinji belongs to me!*
*I am still unsure of what love is. But, I believe I love Ikari-
kun.*
'And we love them.'

>>>At about this moment Rei and Asuka melt into puddles next to Shinji.

>>>Touji: Are they serious?

>>>KEnsuke: NA, just the movie, makes ya think weird things.

>>>Hikari: I don't know.

Yes. It was true. I did love them.
'They have full knowledge of our feelings. Yet, they don't seem to
care whether they will be hurt or not by our decisions. Joy cannot exist
without pain as light cannot exist without darkness.'
*If you don't pilot, you will condemn Rei and Sohryu to death.*
Images of Rei and Asuka lying lifeless in a pool of blood flashed
into my mind.

>>>Kensuke: Thats a tasty picture.

>>>Touji: Red on red, Asuka's plugsuit doesn't allow for much show.

>>>Hikari: SHE'S BEHEADED!!!

'You would hurt them more by leaving than by staying at their side.'
Images of Rei and Asuka, in tears.
'Do you wish them to go through the same pain we did?'
Images of Father leaving me when I was a little boy.
"No!"
'What's your wish then?'
"I don't want to die..."
I barely whispered the words. But as they escaped my lips, I grasped
the full meaning of those and understood that was what I really wanted.

>>>Kensuke: then I ran around Tokyo-3 wishing everybody a merry x-mas

>>>Shinji: Its Christmass?

>>>Hikari: Shinji-kun you're awake

>>>Shinji: Did Asuka and Rei kill each other?

"I don't want to die."
When I first arrived at NERV, I was on a path of self-destruction. I
did not care about my life. I had often thought about death, but never
really sought it because I lacked the courage to. Or at least, that's
what I thought at the time. I realized, it didn't take courage to die,
it takes courage to live, really live.
"I don't want to die!"
I didn't want to die alone in this empty place.
"I don't want to die!"
If I could at least hold Asuka and Rei one last time in my arms...
"I DON'T WANT TO DIE!"
"I WANT TO LIVE!"
'Then, so it shall be.'

>>>Touji: So chibi-Shinji is Kami-sama?

>>>Shinji: I feel better just watching that.

>>>Kensuke: Consider yourself lucky not to see the rest though.

For a brief moment, I felt enveloped by a comfortable heat and a
strange feeling. A sensation... like... love?
Then I felt a brief presence. Familiar.
I can't remember anything beyond that point.

>>>HIkari: Do drugs do that type of things too?

>>>Kensuke: I think they put drugs in the LCL.

* * *

I believe I woke up at the sound of the entry plug being opened. I'm
not sure. My memories of those events are still blurred. When I opened
my eyes, I saw a familiar shape.
Mother?
"Shinji-kun, Shinji-kun, Shinji-kun!"

>>>Rei/Asuka: 'wake but dazed'Shinji-kun.

When my eyes managed to focus, I realized it was Misato. She was in
tears.
"Shinji-kun, are you okay? Shinji-kun!"

>>>Shinji: No I was just eaten by an angel and almost killed.


"I just wanted to... see them... one last time..."
Misato hugged me tightly. I think, I must have passed out at that
point.

>>>Touji: What could be nicer?

>>>Kensuke: She have her top off.
* * *

When I woke up a second time, it was in a completely different
place. One I was really starting to be familiar with. NERV infirmary.
"I really hate that ceiling..."

>>>Shinji: I do, everytime I walk by them I rip one off and burn it.

>>>Touji: You stayed in my sisters room then.

As I whispered those words, I noticed that my chest felt heavy. Then
I realized that Rei's head was there. The girl had fallen asleep.
"How long have you been there?" I asked, not expecting an answer, as
I let my fingers run through the soft blue hair.

>>>Touji: Man, Ayanami should use some shampoo or something.

>>>Shinji: Its actually very fine.

>>>Kensuke: Wonder if she's a natural blue hair.

>>>Shinji blushes from he knowledge from earlier.

>>>Rei finally coming around: Never...know.

This woke her up. First, she gave me a confused look, then realizing
where she was, she grabbed me in a hug and kissed me fiercely.

>>>Rei: 'Shinji-kuns wake' Shinji.

>>>Hikari: WHAT DID SHE SAY!

>>>Shinji: Um..ye....'as if you need to know what she decided to do.'

>>>Asuka still dazed: Wonder-baka.

This was
so unexpected I barely reacted. Then, she burst into tears. I was
shocked; it was the first time I had ever seen Rei cry. I didn't know
what to do. Almost instinctively, I held her tightly.

>>>Touji: I don't think that's possible.

>>>Kensuke: I think you could crack a wal-nut if you could put in in their.

>>>Hikari: Um..Ayanami..he can't breath.

"It's okay, Rei-chan. It's okay..."
"Shinji! I was so worried! I thought I had lost you!"
I recalled the dream, vision or whatever I experienced inside the
EVA. So it was true. They did need me. Rei did truly love me.
"It's okay Rei-chan. I'm here. You're in my arms now. I won't go
away. I promise."

>>>Rei reluctantly releases him: Will you?

>>>Shinji: I...promise.

>>>Asuka still heavly dazed: And me?

>>>Shinji: Sure. 'falls on his back, I'm dead and in heaven'

This seemed to calm her, as her sobs subsided.
"You do?"
I nodded.
As she left my arms, I couldn't help but noticed how she looked even
more beautiful with a tearful expression on her lovely face. Then I
noticed something strange. Her left cheek was badly bruised. Did she get
hurt in the fight against the Angel?

>>>Shinji: But I was the only one that fought it.

>>>Rei: I sense something stupid.

>>>Kensuke: Not so pale anymore.

>>>Hikari: I don't think black and blue are improvements.

"Who... who killed the Angel?"
She gave me a puzzled look.
"You did."
"I did?"
"Yes. Your EVA went berserk again."

>>>Shinji: That happens once a day.

>>>Kensuke: How you handle that?

>>>Shinji: Oddly scented candles or a woman's magazine..weird.

That probably explained why I didn't remember a thing.
"I will let you rest now..."
She was about to leave when I spoke.
"Thank you, Rei-chan, for watching over me."
She smiled, then opened the door, to reveal an Asuka who had
obviously been eavesdropping. Both girls exchanged a dark look for a
while, until Rei was out of the room. Then Asuka looked at me and
blushed.
"Sorry..."

>>>Asuka/Shinji: Who said that!!

>>>Hikari: I don't even want to know.

>>>Touji: Why?

>>>Hikari: Just don't.

The first thing I noticed was her black eye and large cut on her
lower lip. This time I understood.
"You two had a fight, didn't you?"

>>>Rei: And I beat her worse than she did me.

>>>Asuka: Fiction, all a big lie!

>>>Hikari: Even that one scene 'smiles.'

>>>Asuka/Rei both blush: No.

>>>Shinji: What scene?

Asuka's face went white.
"I'll take that as a yes."
"We were both worried, and I said things I shouldn't have said,
and..."

>>>Touji: Rei beat me like the red-headed step-child I am.

>>>Hikari: She fell down a flight of stairs?

>>>Shinji: Misato cooked?

"It's okay."
Asuka looked surprised in hearing that.
"It is?"
"As long as it's the last time you two fight, I guess, I can forgive
you both. Now, why don't you come and hug me," I added with a broad
smile.
"In your dreams!"

>>>Rei: It better be me their.

>>>Hikari: That is a tad possisive.

>>>Kensuke: She said they were engaged.

>>>Hikari: Oh..point withdrawn.

>>>Asuka: This sucks, JUMP HIM!!

>>>Shinji: WHAT!!

"Alright then. Leave, so that I can get to sleep right away. Don't
want to miss that dream."
Asuka gave me a curious look.
"You sure that Angel didn't mess with your mind?"
"Don't think so."
"Well... I can't let the First have an advantage over me..."

>>>Hikari: So she acts as if its a game?

>>>Touji: So what do you call the forced hug?

>>>Rei: Knight to kings-rook 5

Awkwardly, Asuka got closer to my bed. We stared at each other for a
whole minute. Then she took me in her arms.
"I'm so glad you're alive!"
"Believe me, I share the feeling..."

>>>Kensuke: Feeling what?

>>>Shinji: WHAT ARE MY HANDS DOING THEIR!!

>>>Rei: Touching something you've only touched on me before.

>>>Shinji: Um..not really.

>>>Asuka/Rei: WHAT!

>>>Shinji: I..kinda stumbled into..Misato-san.

>>>Touji/Kensuke: Let me shake you hand.

>>>Shinji: No..my face...'looks like a stop sign'

>>>Touji/KEnsuke: DIE!!!!

* * *

It took the usual twenty-four hours before I was considered ready to
leave the infirmary. I was really getting sick of all those tests.
When I came back home, Misato wanted to throw another one of her
parties to celebrate my return and victory over the Twelfth. I politely
declined.

>>>Rei: Why, I've improved my technique so much, I could score.

>>>Shinji: You've been practicing 'smiles.'

>>>Touji: WHAT!

>>>Rei/Shinji: Poker.

>>>Major facefalts.

I just wanted some peace. Asuka seemed to understand, as she
barely yelled at me. It was surprising how fast her minor injuries had
healed in one day.
I went to bed early. Like I said, it's surprising how doing nothing
can drain you.

>>>Shinji: I sit around the house and I feel like sleeping for a week.

For a second time in less than a week, I was awakened in the middle
of the night by someone crawling into my bed.
"Rei-chan?" I groaned, still half asleep.
"Wrong girl, you baka."

>>>KEnsuke: That will put Mega-playboy back a few points.

>>>Rei: How dare you!

>>>Asuka: Looks about right.

That was enough to completely wake me up. Surely enough, once my
eyes adjusted to the poor luminosity of the room, I saw two blue eyes
surrounded by long red hair right in front of my nose.
"A... Asuka!"

>>>Shinji: That..would be nice too.

>>>Asuka: I'd make better company anyway.

>>>Rei: I feel lonely.

For a second, I panicked and almost tried to run away, but Asuka
seemed to anticipate my reaction by holding me tightly in place.
"Don't be scared. I won't bite. Unless you ask me to..."

>>>Asuka: And I mean it.

>>>Shinji gets the chills: What was in that scene I missed guys?

>>>Said guys: Nothing.

I wasn't sure I liked the voracious grin on her face.
"What are you doing here? Don't... don't tell me you couldn't
sleep..."
"I don't have such a convenient excuse. I just wanted to know how it
felt..."

>>>KEnsuke: To kill a man.

>>>Rei: To beat you in bed.

She hugged me tightly, bringing our bodies against one another. I
could clearly feel her breasts against my chest and the soft skin of her
legs on mine. I couldn't help but begin to feel my lower regions react
to her. Asuka either didn't notice or simply didn't care.

>>>Rei: Wait a moment, thats not right, he saw me naked but that didn't
>>> happen, thats not fair.

>>>Asuka: I'm just that much more attractive.

>>>Shinji: I think the shock factor needs to be applied.

>>>Touji: No, so who's chest is the best?

>>>Rei/Asuka/Hikari: Thats not up for DISCUSION!!

"Feels warm..." she whispered in my ear.
Her lips met mine. At that point, I really couldn't help but melt
into her embrace. We exchanged a very long kiss. Then she whispered
something else to me.

>>>Asuka: Ah what the hell, Shinji...Shinji?

>>>Shinji: Mnmmsph.

>>>Kensuke: Whow Ayanami with the premptive.

>>>Asuka: She'll have to leave eventually.

"You know, Ayanami is wrong. I... I... I like you, Shinji."
I didn't know what to say. I didn't even know what to think. So
Asuka liked me after all... but what did it mean really? Did she like me
as a friend? Or did she actually love me? But if she didn't love me,
what was she doing here?
My thoughts were interrupted by the sounds of light snoring coming
from the girl. What do you know, she had fallen asleep.

>>>Kensuke: Told you that ya snored.

>>>Asuka: So! thats such a sweet moment, he's all mine.

>>>Hikari: 'Better not tell Ayanami about that'

>>>Rei releases Shinji: 'I knew the 2nd would try that, so screw her.'

Carefully, I tried to free myself from her hug. I really didn't want
to spend the whole night that close to her. Then I looked at her. She
was so beautiful. Sleeping soundly and peacefully like this, you
couldn't tell that this girl could be a real nuisance at times. I
remembered the first time I had been in a similar position. I had almost
kissed her. This time I didn't stop. Just a very light kiss, not enough
to wake her up. Surprisingly, seconds later, she moaned my name. I
couldn't describe how good that made me feel.

>>>Shinji blushed: That..never happend...

>>>Asuka: To your knowledge.

>>>Shinji: What does that mean?

>>>Asuka; I say something?

I closed my eyes and tried myself to get to sleep, but to no avail.
I just couldn't sleep with the knowledge that this girl was just lying
in bed next to me. I may have been a clueless wimp, but I was still a
boy. There was no way I couldn't have some ideas when looking at her
nearly exposed breasts, not to mention feeling her body against mine.
Just her smell was intoxicating.

>>>Shinji: Most everything About Asuka is.

>>>Asuka: Thats so sweet.

>>>Touji: Man...maybe that mega-playboy stuff is real.

>>>Hikari: He does seem to have his way with the ladies.

>>>kensuke: You too?

>>>Touji: better not!

Strange that I didn't have similar thoughts with Rei a few nights
ago.
I sighed and looked at the ceiling. This would be a very long
night...

>>>Rei: Thats not fair.

>>>Asuka: A screw it Baka here now!

>>>Dog-boy: Yes?

>>>Ok i'm a bit tired of writing how they man-handle him so fill in the blank.



[To be continued...]



Next time:

The One I Love Is...
Chapter 6 - Friends

>>> Kensuke: Wasn't that a shitty American Show in the late 1990's?

>>>Touji: How we know?

Omake


- Scene 1 -

Then, the phone rang. What perfect timing! Eagerly, I escaped this
awkward situation to answer it. I almost regretted I did. Rei understood
only by just seeing the expression of worry on my face.
"An Angel..."
I shook my head.
"No. Godzilla. He's back!"

>>>All: NO NOT AGAIN WE MUST FLEE! AHA HAHAHAHA

Godzilla VS Evangelion
Soon in a theater near you


- Scene 2 -

I went to bed early. Like I said, it's surprising how doing nothing
can drain you.
For a second time in less then a week, I was awakened in the middle
of the night by someone crawling into my bed.
"Rei-chan?" I groaned, still half asleep.
"Not even close."
>>>Touji: better not be Hikari.

That was enough to completely wake me up. Surely enough, once my
eyes adjusted to the poor luminosity of the room, I saw two brown eyes
complemented by shoulder length blond hair right in front of my nose.
"R...Ritsuko-san!"

>>>Asuka/Rei: I KNEW SHE KEPT THE CAMERA ON HIM!!

>>>Shinji blushing: Akagi-san?
(I'll leave the rest to your imagination)



Author's notes:


(1) I was informed that in Japan, students get half a day of classes on
Saturday. Since in the series the Children never seemed to do anything
during the day, I thought it would fit. More reasons for Asuka to
actually hate the extra Sunday classes.

First thing. The title of this chapter was inspired by the title of a
Ranma fanfic "The more things change..." You should go read it, it's a
great fic!

"The more things change..." - http://www.uh.edu/~rpm/tmtc/

Next, I must thank Axel Terizaki, Darren Demaine and R. Alexander
Spoerer for their help in this chapter, mainly with the Gendo/Shinji
confrontation and the little omake (I was short on ideas). Actually,
some small parts if this chapter and following omake written by Darren
and R. Alexander. It may not seem like much, but all that help was
invaluable in the building of Part 2.

Finally, about the story itself. You probably did notice that Part 2 is
about the Twelfth Angel attack. While the general idea stayed the same
(even some dialogs and events were untouched) it is still very different
then episode 16. "Why?" you may ask. It's quite simple really. You
probably noticed, Shinji's life changed a lot lately and so did he.
Under those circumstances, I didn't think the original events, mainly
Shinji's introspection while trapped in the Dirac Sea, were consistent
with the new Shinji. Therefore I had to change things a bit. Also, it
avoided just copying what happened in that episode.

Shinji's introspective scene was mainly influenced by episodes 25-26,
EoE (mainly Asuka's awakening) and of course, the TOILI storyline (took
lots of lines from my previous chapters).

Some of you may think that the scene with Gendo may be a little OOC. I
can't blame you, I thought so myself. But in a way, I just advanced the
schedule. It's a bit like the scene after Unit-03 incident, but this
time Shinji faced his father by his own free will and he had time to
prepare himself for that colossal task. Gendo may seem not to react
much. Maybe it's because he doesn't feel that Shinji's request threaten
his plans. As long as he can manipulate Rei, there is no problem. If
that means letting her have some fun with his son, then so be it. It may
even give him additional ways to control her. Not to mention that Gendo
surely already anticipated the possibility of an emotional awakening in
Rei.


---


Translations notes:

Gott sei Dank! : Thank God!



Alain Gravel
rakna@globetrotter.qc.ca
April 28th 1996

Started on March 9th 1999
First pre-reader draft finished on April 28th 1999
Second pre-reader draft finished on May 5th 1999
Third pre-reader draft finished on May 8th 1999
Final draft finished on May 20th 1999
Final revisions on March 8th 2000
>>>Mst 10-25-01
(end MST)

Touji: that was an odd chapter.

Hikari: I don't think it was anything but Shinji-abuse.

Asuka: That happend alot.

Rei: With you as the cause.

Shinji: I thought it was..'blushes' nice.

Kensuke: You would. so lets set up the mats.

Asuka: Yeah, I'll show you all how good I can dance.

Shinji: You won't kick me this time will you?

Asuka: No I won't.

Hikari: That looked so painful when you did too.

Rei: He needed corrective surgery.

--------------------------------------------------------- ---
Mst Authors notes.

ok as you can see I too used this eps to have mst Asuka and Rei
fall for the mst Shinji in reality :) that just makes it more
fun to have them watch this stuff MWHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

hope you liked it, and I'd love for some reviews

or and I'll ask again, who do I appeal to the asuka or rei fans?

zentrodie ( zentrodie@secondimpact.com)