Story: NGE: Altered Destinies (all chapters)

Neon Genesis Evangelion: Altered Destinies

Launch Three!

Shinji Ikari lay back on the bed, the black haired young lady's eyes closed as she tried to collect her racing thoughts. Just this morning she had been recovering in a sterile hospital bed and now this evening she was in a new bedroom living with two other women.

A smiling Ritsuko had helped Misato and her carry all of Shinji's stuff inside, then they had introduced her to the penguin, Pen Pen. Why two women had a penguin for a pet she didn't know, but there it was, resting in the second fridge. Dinner had been quiet, then as quickly as possible Shinji had retreated to her new room.

'What am I doing here?' Shinji wondered, covering up her eyes with her arm. 'I'm just a ordinary kid, why am I being asked to do something like this?'

A flash of memory, the battle against the Angel... she remembered it all, no matter what she had told the doctors at NERV. She touched her arm, recalling the phantom pain of it being broken, then the searing agony as the Evangelion's head was pounded on. She had been barely able to get EVA-01 moving at first, and was utterly unable to fight.

She still didn't know what turned the tide in the battle, not really at any rate. The last head blow, maybe, or the anger at the situation she was in, something changed inside Shinji. Grasping the controls she had fought back, breaking free of the Angel's grip, then began to fight back. Somehow her will combined with the Evangelion to repair it's arm, then she had struck back with an unimagined fury. Ruthlessly she drove it backwards and when it tried to protect itself with some kind of force field... she tore through it like paper.

'How did I do that?' Shinji questioned. Why did she have such a feeling of... belonging, when she was inside the Evangelion? It had almost felt like those long forgotten memories of childhood, cradled in the safety of her mother's arms.

And then there was Rei... when her father had wheeled in the badly injured girl to pilot Evangelion, Shinji had been horrified. Wrapped in bandages, being hauled around on a medical bed, the blue haired Rei had met Shinji's gaze with her uninjured eye and something just clicked. Shinji refused to see her hurt any more, especially by her father.

"I'll pilot Evangelion" Shinji murmured to herself softly"if only to protect her."

In the kitchen of the apartment two women were cleaning up as they talked together quietly. Ritsuko finished washing a dish, the blonde passing it to her partner as she noted"Shinji barely said anything during dinner."

A smiling Misato took it carefully"It's not like we could sit around talking about work at the dinner table." She rinsed off the dish and put it in the rack as she said"And I doubt she'd want to talk about it, anyway."

"True" Ritsuko agreed. She smiled impishly as she teased"Not to mention Shinji was still getting over her surprise at us being a couple."

Misato rolled her eyes"I said I was sorry for not telling her, love." A bit more seriously she asked"So how's Ayanami"

"It'll be a few weeks before she's fully recovered" Ritsuko answered frankly"we'll need to rely on Shinji alone until then."

Misato sighed"Then we'd better get her into the simulator and start training, we can't rely on luck or whatever gift she has again."

Finishing up the dishes Ritsuko remarked"Do you get the feeling she isn't telling us everything that happened while fighting the Angel"

Misato took Ritsuko's hand as they went through the apartment"Yes, but can you blame her? I do think she isn't holding back information out of malice."

Ritsuko pushed open their bedroom door"Considering she seems to loathe the commander, we're lucky she's even piloting Evangelion."

"That's an understatement" Misato agreed as she followed her in"we shared a elevator with the Commander, not a word from either of them."

"Marvelous" Ritsuko sighed. They began to undress as she asked"Is there anything in her personnel file to explain it"

Misato sat on the side of the bed to slip her shoes off. "Just that he left Shinji with her Aunt and Uncle" she answered as she smoothly undressed, dumping clothes on the floor"oddly they haven't tried to contact her despite being in hospital."

"Looks like we're all Shinji has" Ritsuko sighed as they settled down on the bed together.

Misato snuggled to her side"She could be doing much worse."

The next morning Shinji woke up first, venturing into the kitchen to make some toast. The young woman blinked as she noticed the penguin looking up at her expectantly. "Yes" she finally had to ask Pen Pen.

"He just wants his morning fish" Ritsuko yawned as she wandered into the room dressed in an oversized nightshirt. She opened the fridge and got out a can of sardines, spilling them out into Pen Pen's bowl.

"Good morning Dr. Akagi" Shinji said nervously.

"Coffee, coffee" Ritsuko fumbled about in the shelves till she found her favorite mug, filling it from the pre-brewed pot. "You can just call me Ritsuko here" she took a drink"we are all living in the same house."

"I'll try" Shinji said softly.

'For someone who was so tough in Gendo's presence,' Ritsuko found herself noting, 'she sure can be shy.' Taking another drink she said"Do you mind going into NERV with us today, we're going to have to fit you with a plugsuit."

"Plugsuit" Shinji looked up at the blonde scientist curiously.

"The entry plug can pick up your thoughts and intentions" Ritsuko explained"but the plugsuit helps make it work more efficiently."

Before Shinji could answer Misato stumbled into the kitchen dressed in a very short T-shirt and panties. Opening the fridge she pulled out a can of beer, popped it open and proceeded to slam it back in one go. "Ahh, that was good" she sighed happily.

"Beer first thing in the morning" Ritsuko frowned"And in front of Shinji"

"Hey" Misato said defensively"it's a tradition! I'm just substituting beer for sake, is all." Changing the subject she asked"What were you talking about"

"Plugsuits" Ritsuko said succinctly.

Misato popped open another can of beer. "You'll need to pick out a color" she took a more conservative drink"but not red or white."

"I saw Rei in the white" Shinji looked thoughtful"is there another pilot as well"

"Asuka Soryu Langley" Ritsuko crisply offered"who's currently involved with the testing of the Unit-02 in Germany."

"Then I guess I'll take blue" Shinji dubiously examined some older bread then stuck it in the toaster"it's simpler."

"Good enough" Ritsuko nodded. She opened up the fridge then looked inside before closing it with a sigh"Remind me to go grocery shopping tonight. Who wants takeout for lunch"

"Sounds like a plan" Misato agreed. She casually snagged a piece of Shinji's toast"We'll need to get you registered for school, too."

"Doesn't the exciting life of a pilot keep me from going to school" Shinji asked hopefully.

"Sorry" Misato shook her head"Rei and Asuka go to school, you'll have to go as well."

Ritsuko looked amused, 'Nice to see she's got the normal dislike of school.' Aloud she asked"Do you have any favorite foods, Shinji"

"Huh" she looked startled.

"We are going shopping for you, too" Misato smiled"Shin-chan."

To be continued...

Neon Genesis Evangelion: Altered Destinies

Launch Four!

Shinji Ikari stepped out, the black haired young woman looking visibly nervous as she said, "And pilots regularly wear this?" The blue and black plugsuit hugged her slim body from head to toe, making it quite clear that Shinji was a girl.

Ritsuko Akagi smiled to herself slightly, the blonde haired scientist looking faintly amused. "If it makes you feel any better," she explained, "the plugsuit needs to be skintight to help conduct your thoughts and nerve impulses to the EVA."

"Right," Shinji was blushing faintly as she walked around the small changing room, trying to get more comfortable in the unusual clothes. She reached up to touch the two blue devices on her head, almost looking like cat's ears, and added, "I'm going to look ridiculous."

Ritsuko's lips twitched, but she didn't let herself react. "Come on," she said instead, "I think Misato wanted to see how you looked." The white labcoat she wore over the standard gray NERV uniform looked good on her, though she didn't draw as many glances as Shinji.

"Right," Shinji sighed softly, the two of them leaving the lab where Shinji had been fitted with the new set of clothes.

'Shinji seems less stubborn around me or Misato,' Ritsuko found herself thinking about what had happened earlier, 'but she's remarkably stiff necked where Gendo is concerned.' The two of them had barely talked during their walk down the hall together, just ignoring each other while Ritsuko had tried her best to make conversation.

Misato Katsuragi looked up, her eyes lighting up as she saw Ritsuko and the blonde scientist smiled back. The black haired officer shifted her glance to Shinji and grinned, "Well, at least I won't be mistaking you for a boy in that."

Shinji went beet red at that. "Gee, thanks," she sighed.

Misato got out of her chair by Ritsuko's desk to give Shinji a good look as she said, "You certainly look batter in one of those things than Ritsuko did."

"Eh?" Shinji blinked.

"Misato!" Ritsuko blurted.

Misato looked like she was fighting back a chuckle as she explained, "Ritsuko had to wear a plugsuit during the testing stages, it was pretty funny..."

A blushing Ritsuko walked over and firmly put her hand over Misato's mouth. "Love, she does not need to hear about that," she said firmly.

Shinji couldn't help but smile at that comment. There was a soft sound from the doorway and Shinji looked up to meet the most startling red eye. Rei Ayanami stood in the office doorway studying them thoughtfully, her expression oddly unreadable. Bandages still covered part of her face, her arm was in a sling, but there was an odd feeling of strength in her.

"Dr. Akagi," Rei said in her cool tones, her schoolgirl's uniform fluttering slightly from the air-conditioning, "the Commander asked to see you."

Ritsuko made a face, "Probably wants Unit-00 reactivated as soon as possible." She walked over to the door as she added, "Misato, can you get Shinji back home? This might take awhile."

"Right," Misato nodded.

Rei was about to leave as silently as she came when Shinji spoke up, "Ayanami-san?"

Turning back to look at Shinji Rei asked, "Yes?"

Shinji hesitated under her gaze then took a breath, "I'm glad to see you feeling better."

Rei stood there a moment, almost as if she was surprised by what Shinji said then quietly answered, "Thank you." Without another word she was gone.

Shinji blinked a few times once Rei was gone, her expression mildly confused. "Is Ayanami always like that?" she finally asked.

Misato smiled from where she was leaning up against Ritsuko's desk, "I'm afraid so." She pushed off and ran a hand through her hair, "Come on, let's get you changed back into street clothes, we've got other errands to get done."

"Right," Shinji said, clearly relieved to soon be out of the tight plugsuit.

"You'll get used to it," Misato chuckled. Soon Shinji was changed and sitting in the passenger side on Misato's latest car, another sleek sports model.

Shinji made an odd squeaking noise as she grabbed the dashboard, the car squealing through a tight turn. "So where to next?" she asked, keeping her eyes partially shut.

"I've got to finish registering you for school," Misato answered her as she casually kept an eye on the road, "do you want to come along?"

Shinji nodded slightly, body stiff from fear as she admitted, "I guess it would be a good idea to take a look around." Her red shirt and black skirt weren't too stylish, but Shinji wasn't too worried about making a splash anyway. 'Besides, compared to Misato I couldn't,' she admitted.

Misato was wearing a little black dress that was just this side of sinful, high on the thigh and with a plunging neckline. Along with her red jacket she made quite a image, an almost deliberate sort of sexiness that Shinji almost envied.

"What?" Misato looked at her curiously, "I don't have something on my face, do I?"

"No, no," Shinji shook her head, smiling wryly.

Misato turned back to the road, her lips curling up slightly. "Don't worry," she said confidently as they finally reached the school, "you'll fill out eventually."

Shinji felt her face go red again, but decided to keep her mouth shut as they screeched to a stop in the parking lot. Misato bounced out confidently as Shinji was peeling her cramped fingers from the dashboard, sighing in relief that they were finally there.

"I'll be inside dealing with paperwork," Misato said as she cheerfully waved to the young men and women who were staring out the windows at them, "take a look around and see what you think."

"Right," Shinji sighed, watching her stride off.

Leaning back from where the brown haired young man had nearly been hanging out the window watching Misato Toji shook his head, "God that woman is a babe."

"Out of our league," the blonde haired boy sighed.

"Aida, Toji," Hikari scolded them both, "pay attention."

"Hey, that girl is heading towards the building," Aida noted, adjusting his glasses.

"Think she's a new transfer?" Toji asked as they reluctantly turned away.

"That would be kind of strange," Hikari conceded, "most people are moving away after that last attack, not coming here."

"Hey," Aida brightened, "maybe she's the pilot of that giant robot!"

"There's no way that they'd ever put a kid into a giant robot," Toji loudly scoffed, but he did sound thoughtful.

"Oh come on," Aida protested, "you know it's been an open secret about Ayanami."

"Ayanami isn't...," Hikari hesitated before letting herself say, "exactly normal. This new girl looks pretty average."

"Yeah," Toji nodded slightly, "but if she is the pilot... I owe her."

Aida smiled to himself slightly, taking another peek at the girl who was standing out front looking nervously at the buildings, "You know, she is sort of cute."

"Then you'd better hope that she's a military otaku," Hikari muttered, "or you're going to have no chance with her."

"Hey!" Aida protested.

Toji smiled slightly, "She's got a point."

"Oh, big help you are," Aida muttered.

There was a loud clearing of a throat from the front of the classroom and all three looked up guiltily to see the teacher regarding them wearily. "Toji and Aida I can understand," he said with a dramatic sigh, "but Hikari too?"

"Busted," Toji whispered with a smirk.

"Shut up," Hikari hissed back.

To be continued...

Neon Genesis Evangelion: Altered Destinies

Launch Five!

Shinji Ikari bowed slightly as she was quickly introduced to the school's principal, then was excused as the older man discretely oggled Misato in her slinky dress. Absentmindedly he gave Shinji permission to look around and the young lady left, smiling wryly at Misato's easy ability to manipulate a man like him.

The building, like much of the city was new construction, and felt oddly deserted as she walked the halls, occasionally looking into windows. 'With the Angel attack I guess most of the people with good sense are leaving,' she thought, 'unlike myself.'

"What are you doing here, young lady?" a clearly annoyed voice asked.

Shinji turned to face the older man, recognizing a teacher as soon as she saw one. She handed him the pass she had been give as she said respectfully, "Just looking around, sensei."

He looked at the paper, clearly wanting something to be wrong with it. He looked up, light flashing off his glasses as he handed the sheet over as he reluctantly said, "All right, but please do not disrupt classes, young lady."

"Thank you, sir," Shinji nodded.

"Hmph," he turned and strode away just as the bell announcing lunch rang, doors sliding open even as students streamed out of the classrooms.

'Uh oh," reflexedly Shinji made her way outside, not wanting to deal with the students just yet. She smiled wryly noting that Misato wasn't back at the car yet, which meant she was still negotiating with the principal.

"Hey, you!" a boy's voice called and Shinji turned to see three figures heading over two her. The tallest was gangly, with dark brown hair while a smaller, blonde haired boy followed beside him. Along with the two boys a lighter brown haired girl paced beside them reluctantly, giving Shinji a mildly apologetic smile.

"Yes?" Shinji asked, the young lady looking at the three with mild curiosity.

"You transferring here?" the taller boy asked bluntly.

"Toji!" the girl scolded then looked over at Shinji. "Don't mind him, he just has no manners," she smiled, "I'm Hikari, this is Toji and Aida."

"Hi," Aida beamed, offering his hand awkwardly.

Shinji shook it, feeling a bit of amusement in the whole situation. "Nice to meet you," she addressed the three of them as a group. She looked over at Toji, "Yes, I'm transferring unless my guardian decides otherwise."

"Then I'll look forward to you being our classmate," Hikari said gently.

"Me, too," Aida sighed, blushing faintly.

Toji rolled his eyes at that. "You heard about the giant robot that saved the city a few nights back?" he asked, looking at Shinji thoughtfully.

Shinji played dumb, "What robot?"

Before Toji or anyone else could follow up a voice called out, "Shin-chan!" Misato strode over, both young men following her every move. She seemed not to notice the stares or Hikari's frown, "Making new friends?"

"Sort of," Shinji answered, "these are Hikari, Toji and Aida."

"Nice to meet you," she smiled, then Misato turned to Shinji. "All done, you're starting here tomorrow," she beamed.

"Are you going to be driving Shinji to school?" Aida asked a bit dazedly.

"No, we're near enough for her to walk," Misato shrugged casually.

"Too bad," Toji murmured only to have Hikari elbow him in the ribs, "ow!"

"Sorry to cut this short," Misato shrugged, "but I've got to take Shinji out shopping for school supplies." She popped the doors and climbed in, "See you later."

"It was nice to meet you," Shinji nodded hesitantly then climbed in after Misato.

"You didn't get to ask her if she was the pilot of that robot," Aida said as the cherry red sportscar swept out of the lot with style.

"You two," Hikari shook her head. "You've got to get to know her a bit, you know."

"Maybe," Toji shrugged, "but either way I have to know." He cracked his knuckles, a smile teasing his lips, "And if she is the pilot I'll pay her back in full."

Unaware that she was the topic of conversation back in the parking lot Shinji looked over at Misato, "Isn't starting classes tomorrow a bit fast?"

"NERV has a lot of pull," Misato shrugged casually, "it wasn't that hard to get you in fast." She looked over, apparently unconcerned by oncoming traffic and smiled, "I think that blonde kid was checking you out."

"Aida?" Shinji blinked, then whimpered as they nearly missed another car. "I think they'd be curious about any new girl," she shrugged.

Misato chuckled softly, "We'll see."

In NERV headquarters was a shadowy chamber, on the floor inscribed with patterns and designs as old as man. Gendo Ikari looked out at the Geofront, taking in the structures that held the buildings of the city when they were pulled underground for defensive purposes.

"Ritsuko," Gendo turned to the woman who stood in front of his desk, "how are repairs for the Unit-01 going?"

"Ahead of schedule," Ritsuko said, "we'll be ready to sortie again in only a few days."

"Unit-00?" Gendo asked.

"We're thawing it out of cryogenic storage and attempting to discover what went wrong last time," Ritsuko reported crisply. She hesitated, "Normally I'd assume that there was pilot error involved, but this is Rei we're talking about."

"Indeed," Gendo nodded.

'Ask about her,' Ritsuko silently urged the oddly impassive man standing in front of her, 'you know you want to, damn it.'

Gruffly, almost unwillingly Gendo asked, "And how is Shinji?"

"Settling in nicely," Ritsuko started.

"I meant in relation to NERV," Gendo cut her off.

Ritsuko fought not to roll her eyes. "Her training sessions in the simulator are going well," she answered crisply, "it seems that Shinji is very nearly a natural pilot."

"Unit-02 will soon be arriving from Germany," Gendo said seriously, "along with it's pilot Asuka Langley Sorryu. I want both EVAs fully operational by the time she arrives."

"Expecting another enemy attack?" Ritsuko asked him, her shoulders tensing up slightly as she wondered if Gendo has some kind of inside knowledge. 'It really wouldn't surprise me,' she thought to herself grimly.

Gendo's expression was nearly unreadable, "It's always best to be prepared, doctor."

'That was helpful,' Ritsuko thought. "Of course, sir," she agreed aloud and was soon excused.

Gendo returned to his seat, his expression contemplative. "Fuyutsuki?" he asked and a slim figure emerged from the shadowy corners of the room. He almost looked like a professor despite the NERV uniform, but his eyes were shrewd.

"Yes Gendo?" Commander Fuyutsuki asked.

"In addition to Misato and Ritsuko's reports I want surveillance maintained on Shinji," Gendo ordered crisply.

"You think she'll be targeted?" Fuyutsuki asked.

"As our only active pilot Shinji is too precious to lose," Gendo answered.

"And the fact that she resembles your wife Yui has nothing to do with it."

"Nothing at all," Gendo smiled back reluctantly.

To be continued...

Neon Genesis Evangelion: Altered Destinies

Launch Six!

"Pilots, are you ready?" Misato cried from the command center, watching as the massive, diamond shaped Angel worked to bore into the Geofront above NERV. The last few days had been crazy, their attempt to register Shinji for school was like a dream.

"No," Shinji answered honestly from Unit-01, "but I'll try."

Rei Ayanami's voice was calm, her expression nearly blank on her side of the split screen. "Ready, commander."

"Remember," Misato reminded Shinji, "the beam cannon you're using has a cool down time of thirty seconds, if you miss you may not get another shot."

"Way to ratchet up the pressure," Shinji murmured, the young woman gulping softly. She took a breath, "And Ayanami's shield?"

"It's tough but it won't last long against the Angel's beam," Misato said.

Rei's voice was quiet but firm, "I will protect you."

Ritsuko raised her eyebrows in surprise, looking over to where Misato stood with her in NERV's command center. Clearly she was surprised to hear such intensity of emotion coming from Rei. Misato shrugged, unsure what to say.

"Begin operation," Misato ordered, "Shinji, all the power of Japan is in your hands!"

On the hillside at the very edge of range Shinji had the Unit-01 laying prone, the experimental beam rife aimed towards the Angel hovering over NERV and Tokyo. Deliberately targeting NERV, like it knew where it's enemy was... Shinji took a deep breath, feeling a twinge of pain reminding her of her last run in with the Angel.

Launching Unit-01 they sent Shinji up into the city to battle the Angel... a big mistake. Almost as soon as she popped up the Angel fired, turning the chest of the EVA into molten slag, the shock lashing through Shinji too. The medics told her that her heart had actually stopped, hanging for a moment between life and death...

Shinji shook her head, trying to banish those thoughts. 'Focus,' she thought, using the sights to focus the cross hairs. The systems would compensate for distance, the curve of the Earth, all that, but she had to make the shot correctly. She lined it up, checked the charge meter, took a deep breath... then fired!

"Cheers!" Misato cried, raising her can of beer jubilantly.

"Cheers," Ritsuko agreed, tapping her can even as Shinji and Rei tapped cans of soda, too.

"One shot," Misato crowed, "you did it with just one shot!"

Shinji blushed, the young woman looking down uncomfortably. "It was just luck," she shook her head firmly.

"No, it wasn't," Ritsuko said, "you nailed it."

"True," Rei noted, sipping her soda.

Misato nodded firmly even as she passed the take-out box of rice over to Ritsuko. "You did good," she agreed, "even Fuyutsuki said so."

"I doubt Gendo did, though," Shinji noted as she sipped her drink.

"Thanks love," Ritsuko said to Misato even as she winced slightly, remembering how gruffly Gendo had handled their latest victory. He hadn't even congratulated Shinji directly, instead he just generally thanked everyone for all their work. Once again she silently gave thanks for turning down his advances...

"I'm sure that the commander approved of our efforts," Rei said just a bit uncomfortably, looking down at her plate.

"Hmm," Shinji made a noncommittal noise, not willing to directly contradict a guest.

'Isn't that interesting,' Misato noted as she watched the two youngsters interact. She found herself wondering if something had happened between Shinji and Rei up on that hill.. they had been up there a while on their own. It wasn't anything obvious but there was a little more softness as Rei looked and talked to Shinji.

"So what do you two want to do to celebrate?" Ritsuko asked the kids curiously as she munched on sweet and sour pork.

"Eh?" Rei blinked.

Misato smiled, "I doubt the commander would approve, but I think rewarding our two conquering heroes would be good."

"I don't really think...," Shinji hesitated.

"No, thank you," Rei said gravely, almost at the same time. Both she and Shinji exchanged a surprised smile, and then looked away.

"Aw," Ritsuko smiled, "but Misato already rented the kareoke machine."

"Kareoke?" Shinji whimpered.

Misato finished off her beer then thumped it down on the table. "Don't be a wimp," she scolded, "you'll have fun."

Ritsuko reached across the table to lay her hand on Rei's, "Please?"

Rei hesitated, then she nodded slightly. "One or two songs," she said to them firmly, "then I have to go."

"Fair enough," Misato bounced up, leading them into the living room, "let's go!"

"And here I was hoping you'd get us out of it," Shinji murmured to Rei, her gentle smile softening the words.

Rei smiled back, "Sorry."

"All right, who's first?" Ritsuko asked, a can of beer in her own hand.

'How many have those two had, anyway?' Shinji found herself wondering. Not that both women weren't old enough, but still...

"Me, me!" Misato laughed, getting up. She ran through the available songs and grinned, finding the tune she wanted. Crooning a love ballad to Ritsuko made both of the women blush, but they were also clearly enjoying themselves.

"If this gets much sweeter I may be sick," Shinji murmured to Rei softly.

"Hmm," Rei nodded just slightly.

"All right, your turn," Ritsuko said, passing the microphone over to Shinji.

Shinji opened her mouth to argue, then decided to just get it over with. She chose a song then opened her mouth to sing. The song was old, back to the 90's about a girl who never got along with others, and most importantly herself.

Misato shook her head as Shinji sat down, "Nice singing, though I've got mixed feelings about the song."

"You're the one who suggested kareoke," Shinji pointed out a bit defensively.

Sensing a possible argument Ritsuko quickly offered a turn to Rei, "Here you go."

"I..." Rei frowned slightly then nodded, walking over to the machine. A few keys, then her voice soared even as it carried a oddly unspecified sorrow...

"And you don't seem to understand,

A shame you seemed an honest man,

And all the fears you hold so dear

Will turn to whisper in your ear.

And I know what I say can hurt you,

And you know that it means so much

But you don't even hear a thing

I am faded, I am falling, I have lost it all,

Help me to breathe..."

There was a beat of dead silence as Misato finished another beer. "Next time we do kareoke," she said to no one in particular, "I'm getting these two drunk first."

"Hmm," Ritsuko agreed.

To be continued...

Note: Rei is singing from the opening theme from Serial Experiments Lain... a depressing yet oddly beautiful little song. If you haven't seen Lain I recommend it, if only for the visual design and unique storyline.

Launch Seven!

Shinji Ikari grabbed her breakfast quickly, popping up her toast even as she dumped out Pen Pen's can of sardines. "Wonder how long it'll be before they're up?" she young woman murmured to the penguin with amusement.

Pen Pen gave her a scolding look, as if she was asking foolish questions, then the penguin went back to scarfing it's food. The kitchen itself was lit up by the rising sun, a rose glow that lit up everything with that energy. The room was it's usual mess, but at least the kitchen table was clean enough for her to eat at.

"Urgl," Ritsuko stumbled towards the coffee machine, her blonde hair messy from sleep. Behind her Misato made a beeline for the fridge, getting out a can of beer. "Do you really have to do that?" Ritsuko muttered.

"Yup," Misato popped open the top then slammed the beer down, her oversized T-shirt and shorts chosen for comfort, not style.

"Dumb question," Ritsuko sipped with a sigh.

"Good morning," Shinji said to them mildly, watching the two older women with mild amusement. Their usual morning routine had been a little startling to her at first, but she had gotten used to it over time. It helped that whatever bickering Misato and Ritsuko did was balanced out by their honest affection.

Ritsuko sat at the table and nursed her cup of coffee, her battered house coat wrapped around her. "Please come by NERV after school," she sighed as she sipped, "we need to run through some simulator training."

Reheating some takeout from last night Misato noted, "If you need a ride I'm sure we can ask Misato or Maya to haul you over."

"I don't think you need to send officers out to get me," Shinji said, sweatdropping as the microwave binged and Misato popped it open, getting a fork and then digging in eagerly.

"I can't believe you eat that in the morning," Ritsuko grumbled as she put some more nice, safe toast on, "and with beer, too."

"It's a traditional Japanese breakfast," Misato defended herself cheerfully, "I'm just substituting beer for the sake, that's all."

Shinji got up, smiling wryly as she headed out, grabbing her school bag from where it waited by the front door. "Have a good day," she called as she slipped her shoes on and went out the door, her uniform skirt swirling around her legs.

"Thank god she didn't comment about last night," a smiling Ritsuko puffed out a sigh, "we were a little loud."

"Shinji usually wears her MP3 player during the evening," Misato said optimistically, "maybe she didn't hear anything."

'It's odd enough that I'm living with two grown women who just happen to be lesbians,' Shinji thought to herself as she reached the sidewalk and headed on towards the school, 'it's even stranger realizing that they actually have sex.' After a short pause she muttered wryly, "And really good sex too, by the sound of it."

The streets were still almost eerily silent in the early morning, only a small amount of traffic moving to work or carrying supplies for the city. Most of the people had left Tokyo-3 after the first Angel attack, and only a group of diehards and NERV employees were left, populating the massive city with such small numbers.

"Ikari-chan," a girl's voice called.

Looking up Shinji saw Hikaru waiting at the usual place, the young woman's twin brown ponytails giving her a oddly young look. "Morning," she smiled as she and Hikaru fell into step, a pattern they had developed over the past week or two.

"I think Aida wants to talk to you," Hikaru looked amused as they walked on.

A blush colored Shinji's cheeks, her eyes rolling. The blonde haired boy had been pretty obvious in his crush on Shinji, and in all honesty she wasn't quite sure what to do about it. It wasn't that she disliked him, but there wasn't any spark between them, either.

"Toji does, too," Hikaru added, giving Shinji a thoughtful look.

"Huh?" Shinji blinked.

Hikaru chuckled, "Don't worry, I don't think he intends to ask you out."

"That's good," Shinji sighed. She looked over at Hikaru thoughtfully, "Besides, I wouldn't want to get in your way."

Hikaru nearly stumbled, the other woman was so surprised. "Is it that obvious?" she asked her a bit uncomfortably.

"Not really," Shinji said quietly, "I guess that despite all your scolding of him, it seems that you care about him, too."

Hikaru chuckled uncomfortably, "I just wish he'd figure it out."

"Have you tried to tell him?" Shinji asked uncomfortably, glad that they were near the school. She was bad at this sort of thing, romance and all that, and felt very odd trying to give advice.

Hikaru gave her a amused look, "We've been friends forever, Shinji. It's a little hard to suddenly say that you're in love with him."

"Fair enough," Shinji conceded.

The first bell rang out and they hurried through the main gate with the other students, rushing to their lockers then on to class. Grabbing her seat Shinji scanned the class, noting that Aida and Toji were already there, along with most of the others. Her eyes landed on Rei Ayanami, gazing forward with a oddly detached expression.

Then Rei turned her head, meeting Shinji's eyes as what had happened a few nights ago ran through her mind. They had been stationed on a rise, their Evangelion ready for battle, waiting for the signal to attack the latest Angel. Oddly spurred on by Rei's silence Shinji had found herself confessing her own odd hopelessness, the sense that whatever she did was all basically meaningless.

Rei's blue hair had been blown by the breeze as she gazed out at the Angel waiting for them. "I fight for the Commander," she had finally said, "that's enough for me."

"Not for me," Shinji shook her head with a flash of anger.

Rei had studied her, "Then find someone or something you want to fight for." The signal came and they climbed in their entry plugs. "No matter what happens, I will protect you," Rei had said just before she climbed in, "good bye."

Shinji shook herself as she pulled herself back to the classroom, noticing the quizzical look Rei was giving her. Giving back a sheepish smile Shinji focused her attention on the teacher, silently glad that he hadn't called on her while she was zoned out.

Slipping away with her lunch Shinji headed up to the roof, sitting under the sun as she unpacked her store bought bento. 'Good, I dodged Aida,' she thought a bit guiltily as she ate. That was not a conversation she was looking forward to...

The door swung open and Shinji tensed, the frowned faintly as Toji walked out onto the roof. "Ikari," he gave her a grim look, "I want to talk to you."

'Uh oh,' Shinji thought then said, "If it's about Aida, I like him but he's not really my type..."

"No," Toji cut her off, "it's not about that." A short pause, "It's really true, you are the pilot of that giant robot?"

Shinji visibly winced. On her first day here, under the grilling of several students she had found herself blurting out that yes, she was the pilot of Evangelion. Not that it was too surprising that they'd figure it out, considering she had arrived for school only days after it's first appearance and that they had already deduced Rei was also a pilot.

"Well, yes," Shinji confessed as he walked over to her.

Toji looked down at her with a utterly unreadable expression on his face... then startlingly pulled her into a fierce hug!

"Urk," Shinji squeaked even as she thought, 'God, I hope Hikaru doesn't come up here."

Releasing her as suddenly as he had hugged her Toji smiled faintly. "You stopped the fight short of my family's apartment," he explained quietly, "my sister was there, and I don't want to think what might have happened..."

Shinji pulled away, walking over to the fence that circled the rooftop. "Don't thank me," she said grimly, "it was just dumb luck that she was saved." A pause, "There were certainly enough killed that I don't feel very proud of it."

Joining her there Toji asked mildly, "What do you want me to do, punch you?"

Shinji barked laughter, "No thanks, I don't like pain."

Toji shrugged slightly, "It may not help, but just think how many people that thing might have killed if you hadn't stopped it."

"Maybe," Shinji said softly.

To be continued...

Launch Eight!

Gendo Ikari looked off into the distance, the black haired man's expression troubled. "The scrolls predicted a certain order in the arrival of the angels," he murmured softly, "but strangely, that hasn't happened."

Fuyutsuki raised his eyebrows, the older man looking oddly dignified as he stood by Gendo's desk, the floor beneath them covered by odd symbols. "Which means?" he asked, curious about how the man was analysing the situation.

Gendo frowned, "It seems that SEELE can no longer rely on the scrolls to guide mankind's destiny." A faint smile, "It must have come as quite a shock."

Fuyutsuki nodded agreement, "Will this effect our plans?"

"We'll continue with our efforts to achieve Instrumentality, of course," Gendo said confidently, "but we have to be prepared for the unexpected, too. I want to move up the arrival of EVA-03 and we need our allies to work harder to prepare the other Evangelion Units."

"Understood," Fuyutsuki made a note. He hesitated, "Do we know why the Scrolls are no longer accurate?"

Gendo looked off into the distance for a moment, his glasses gleaming. "I looked at some of the translations, including the battles against the Angels," he said quietly, "they mention a boy who's purpose is to battle them."

"So we need to recruit a male pilot?" Fuyutsuki asked.

"No," Gendo shook his head with a faint smile, "I think they were talking about Shinji."

Fuyutsuki looked at him in confusion, "But she's a... I mean, that can't be right."

"I think that's the first difference between the scrolls and reality," Gendo said frankly, "and I suspect that it won't be the last."

In another part of the complex Shinji Ikari sat in the simulator, her expression faintly amused as she squeezed off another round of bullets. The simulated Angel disappeared and shje moved on even as she said, "So what's next?"

Ritsuko Akagio smiled from where she stood I the control room, her white labcoat swirling around her legs. The blonde took out a ten hundred yen note and passed it over to Misato, "Looks like you win our bet."

"Thank you," Misato smirked as the black haired woman purred, "I told you she'd do well in the simulator."

"Keep in mind your rearming points," Ritsuko reminded her, "the locations in the city where you can replace your rifle are also echoed in the simulation."

"Understood," Shinji nodded as she made her Evangelion sweep the city, also keeping an eye on her weapon's readouts.Another Angel popperd up and she dropped and rolled, coming up in firing position only to be nearly struck by a tentacle.

"That was close," Misato winced as Shinji nimbly jumped her Evangelion back, spraying the Angel with simulated bullets.

"Nice to see our prodigy isn't perfect," Ritsuki commented mildly. Talking to Shinji she said, "Also try to remember that the Angels aren't limited to a humanoid form, they could come in all shapes and sizes."

"Right," Shinji said with a flash of irritation, her eyes narrowed with annoyance as she proceded to kill the Angel with extra bullets.

Ritsuko grinned as she murmured to Misato, "She does have a temper."

Behind Ritsuko and Misato the door swished open and a figure entered the room, watching the screen with thoughtful red eyes. Rei Ayanami's light blue hair fell into her eyes, her school uniform swirling around her legs.

"Rei," Misato looked a bit surprised to see her there as she asked, "did you have a simulator session booked?"

"No," Rei shook her head slightly, her eyes moving to watch the black haired young woman up on the screen. "How is Shinji doing?" she asked in her soft way.

Misato and Ritsuko exchanged faintly surprised glances, knowing that Rei's interest was unusual to say the least. "She's doing quite well," Ritsuko answered her mildly, "though Shinji's not quite at your level, yet."

"Hmm," Rei nodded slightly then without a word turned and left the room.

"Well that was odd," Misato blinked.

Ritsuko shook her head, wondering what was going on with the enigmatic young woman. Not that understanding Rei was easy at the best of times, but she seemed even more mysterious around Shinji. "Think Rei likes her?" Ritsuko asked as they watched Shinji fight.

"Dunno," Misato put her hands in the pockets of her jacket, "she seems more... interested, when Shinji's around."

"True," Ritsuko nnodded, having observed that in the two girl's interactions. "Oh, you'd better get your good dress out," she said to Misato.

"Huh?" Misato looked confused by the change of topic.

"You did remember the wedding we're going to?" Ritsuko reminded her. A chuckle, "Yet another of our friends is getting married."

"What is it with them?" Misato shook her head with amusement, "They're rushing to the altar like lemmigs to the sea."

"Now there's a vivid thought, m'love, " Ritsuko laughed softly at that. Turning around to see Shinji in pitched battle with yet another Angel she asked her, "Do you want to keep going or pack it in for the rest of the day?"

"Just let me finish this," and Shinji ducked a blow, her rifle blazing at nearly point blank range to destroy her opponent.

A few moments later and Shinji had changed out of her blue plugsuit into a girl's school uniform, today. Oddly she wore both the boy's and girl's uniforms to class, a unique gesture that the staff hadn't objected to so far. It fit the girl's personality in some ways, being so mild mannered most of the time but fierce battling the Angels.

'Or dealing with Gendo,' Ritsuko noted. Aloud she said, "How would you like to join Misato on an excursion, Shin-chan?"

"What sort of excursion?" Shinji asked, putting her school bag over her shoulder casually as they walked to a lift to the surface.

"The Evangelion Unit-02 is on it's way here," Misato explained, "we're transportig it and it's pilot here by sea. Tomorrow, I'll be going out via helecopter to meet them."

"The pilot," Shinji tried to remember, "that's Asuka, right?"

Ritsuko nodded, "Asuka Soryu Langley, correct. She's something of a prodigy, too, as well as arguably a genius."

"Have you met her?" Misato looked curiously towards Ritsuko, "So far, I've only seen a photograph and her files."

"Once, I interviewed her for Gendo," Ritsuko said. She looked over at Shinji, "So what do you think?"

"I'll go, as long as I get to miss school," Shinji grinned impishly.

Misato laughed at that, "Yeah, you'll have to." She looked thoughtful, "You could even invite your classmates along."

Shinji thought of the crush Aida still had I her and winced. "No, I don't think so," she said, "this is Nerv business, after all."

"Right," Ritsuko looked amused. She hesitated and added, "Hmm, I wonder if Rei Ayanami would want to go along?"

Misato blinked, "Not a bad idea, but Gendo might disapprove of our having all three pilots away from here."

"Still, it can't hurt to ask," Ritsuko nodded.

Shinji had a faint blush to her cheeks but she kept her voice even, "I'd like that."

To be continued...

Neon Genesis Evangelion: Altered Destinies

Launch Ten!

"Damn it, stop thinking so loud," Asuka growled as they lurched, the red Unit 02 fighting to keep it’s balance on the deck of the ship.

"Trying," Shinji answrered, holding on to the back of the seat in the entry plug, the plug suit she had borrowed from Asuka clinging to her body.

The Angel was a black shape beneath the water racing with incredible speed as the navy vessels tried uselessly to destroy it. It had attacked with almost no warning, leaving them scrambling to prepare any kind of defense.

"We’ve only got the prog knife as a weapon," Asuka said as she scanned the water, "we have to let it get close."

"But if we hit the water we’re in trouble," Shinji smiled slightly, "I rather doubt a Evangelion can swim."

"Obviously," Asuka answered coldly.

"So, you like Kaji?" Shinji asked casually.

"What?" Asuka blurted, blushing. "Why are you asking me that now?"

"No time like the present," Shinji answered even as she saw a shadow at the corner of her eye. "Incoming!"she cried, pointing.

"I see it," Asuka wheeled the Eva around, knife at the ready and sliced, taking a chunk off the Angel’s side, a fin dropping away to hit the water. In fact she hadn’t seen it coming, and was a bit disturbed that Shinji had. Clearly the pilot was more capable than Asuka had first thought.

"It’s circling," Shinji blinked as the dark shape moved awkwardly in the water. Her eyes widened, "It can’t maneuver without both fins!"

"The one is regenerating fast," Asuka murmured as a dangerous idea began to form.

Obviously, Shinji was thinking similar thoughts as she said, "But we’ve got a shot. Should we take it?"

"It’s a gamble..." Asuka was tempted.

"The longer this thing is active," Shinji looked sly, "the better chance it has of taking out the ship with Kaji on it."

"You fight dirty."

"Sometimes it’s the only way to win," Shinji shrugged.

"Let’s go," and with that Asuka dove her Evangelion off the sideof the ship.

"What are they DOING?" Misato squealed, holding the binoculars to her eyes.

"Damn I need a smoke," Kaji muttered, the brown haired man restlessly scratching at the stubble on his chin.

"They’re going after the injured Angel, aren’t they?" Rei asked flatly, but her red eyes were narrowed in concern.

"That’s insane," Maya blurted, her eyes wide.

"Not exactly," Misato reluctantly handed the binoculars to the patiently waiting Rei, "it looked like they hurt it badly."

"That’s the sort of risk Asuka’d take," Kaji admitted as they waited for some sign.

"I wouldn’t have expected Shinji to, though," Maya noted.

"The girl has unexpected depths," Misato conceded.

Suddenly water fountained up as the Angel threw itself out of the water, Unit-02 firmly on it’d back. Seizing the opportunity the Evangelion struck with the progressive knife, driving the blade into the Angel’s core in a flash of light. The creature collapsed after thrashing around a bit and the Evangelion was hauled onto the deck of the ship by it’s power cable.

"Come on," Rei cried as they raced from the bridge down to the deck.

The Evangelion’s entry plug had already been popped out when they reached the deck and as it popped open they were greeted by quite a sight. A bitterly swearing Asuka and Shinji were in a tangle of limbs in the seat, obviously thrown about by the Angel’s death struggles.

Taking in the scene Misato smirked, "Well, Shinji, was it good for you?"

"Misato!" Shinji scolded as she fell out of the entry plug and onto the deck.

"Are you all right?" Rei asked, the blue haired girl offering Shinji a hand up.

Shinji took it, "Nothing hurt but my pride."

"You all right?" Kaji asked Asuka calmly.

"Other than that pervert feeling me up," Asuka said as she brushed herself off.

"I fell on you," Shinji protested.

"Likely story," Asuka sniffed.

"Was it more difficult piloting the Eva with two people inside?" Maya asked, organizer out to make notes in.

"Huh?" they all looked at her in surprise.

"I’m sure Dr. Akagi would be interested," Maya said defensively.

"She’s got a point," Misato admitted.

"The Unit-02 was confused by out thinking in German and Japanese at first," Asuka conceded as the two gave their report.

"You seeing what I’m seeing?" Kaji asked Misato softly.

"Rei hasn’t let go of Shinji’s hand yet," Misato smiled slightly. "In fact, I don’t even think she’s aware she’s doing it."

"You want to tell her?" Kaji asked.

"Nah."

Maya nodded as she finished her notes, "Thank you very much."

"So were you worried about me, Kaji?" Asuka asked charmingly.

"Of course," Kaji grinned disarmingly.

As officers hurried about Rei and Shinji found themselves sitting off to the side, watching the chaos unfold. "What was it like piloting with Asuka?" Rei asked, her thumb moving in circles again’s Shinji’s skin.

Shinji smiled wryly, "She swears like a sailor."

A smile actually tugged at Rei’s lips. "I’m not surprised," she admitted.

"It was odd," Shinji admitted after a moment, "there was a moment when we were on that Angel that I thought we were going to die."

"Yes?" Rei asked.

"It was as if," Shinji gestured awkwardly, "our wills became one. We were just not going to let that thing win."

"Really," Rei’s voice took on a flat tone as she released Shinji’s hand.

"I couldn’t live with myself if you or the others had been hurt," Shinji admitted.

Rei’s gaze softened again. "I’m glad," she said.

To be continued...

Neon Genesis Evangelion: Altered Destinies

Launch Eleven!

Gendo Ikari read the report in his massive office, his expression remote as he read about the encounter with the aquatic angel. The dark brown haired man finally looked up from the documents at Kaji as he asked him, “So, do you think the Angel sensed the Evangelion, or what you were carrying?”

Kaji shrugged as he put the case down on Gendo’s desk, “Who knows? We still have very little idea of the Angels’ capabilities.”

“Hmm,” Gendo almost looked like he was ready to grab at the case in eagerness as he continued bitingly, “at least you were able to complete your mission, Mr. Inspector from the United Nations.”

Quite calmly Kaji popped the locks, the case swinging open to reveal something that looked like a cross between a sea creature and a developing life form. “Adam,” Kaji agreed, “direct from SEELE to you, sir.” A pause then he carefully asked, “Is this part of the Instrumentality project, sir?”

“That,” Gendo closed the case, his expression carefully remote as he said firmly, “is need to know only.”

Kaji nodded calmly, “Understood.”

Emerging from the shadows as Kaji left Fuyutsuki said seriously, “He knows more than he’s letting on.”

“Of course,” Gendo seemed unsurprised, “her serves three masters, at least. If you’re playing that sort of game you’d better be smart.”

“Three?” Fuyutsuki asked, his short grey hair combed back neatly.

“The UN, SEELE and NERV,” Gendo answered with a shrug. “It’s a dangerous game he’s playing, one that could be... fatal.”

“We’ll do what needs to be done,” Fuyutsuki said.

Meanwhile, in another part of the city a door opened as a woman’s voice called out, “Honey, I’m home!”

Shinji Ikari sighed as she looked at her guardian, “Do you have to do that?”

“Yup,” Misato smirked, the black haired woman leading Shinji inside. She walked into the kitchen with the take out bags even as Ritsuko emerged from their bedroom, “Hi love.”

“Welcome back,” Ritsuko paused to kiss Misato hello then helped her with the bags. A smile tugged her lips, “I understand you look good in red, Shinji.”

“Huh?” Shinji blushed faintly.

With a impish smirk Ritsuko said, “Maya emailed me her report in before you all got back, I read all the juicy details.” A bit more apologetic she added, “I would have come meet you but something came up at the lab.”

“S’alright,” Misato sat down tiredly.

Shinji and Ritsuko quickly began opening up the various containers and setting out the food, steaming plates soon set up in front of all three of them. “Beer?” Ritsuko asked as she paused in front of the fridge.

“You have to ask?” Misato smiled.

“Thanks for the food,” Shinji murmured then dug in.

“So,” Ritsuko asked in between mouthfuls of dinner, “what did you think of Miss Asuka Soryu Langley?”

“She’s... unique,” Shinji admitted.

Misato fought back a snort of laughter. “She’s as much of a spitfire as ever,” she agreed, “and she still hates Ayanami’s guts.”

“Psychological issues?” Ritsuko raised a eyebrow in question.

“Probably,” Misato shrugged.

“What do you mean?” Shinji looked curious.

“I can’t go into much as it’s from her private files,” Ritsuko sounded faintly apologetic as she continued on, “let’s just say you aren’t the only one with family issues.”

“Huh,” Shinji nodded as she ate, occasionally dropping a piece of fried fish for the penguin Pen Pen. “Where will she be staying?”

“She’ll get the option of NERV housing or a host family,” Ritsuko answered.

“Anything interesting happen while we were gone?” Misato asked, looking over at Ritsuko with undisguised tenderness.

“Another of our classmates is getting hitched,” Ritsuko revealed, “we got the invitation in the mail earlier this week.”

“What’s with this lemming like rush to wedded bliss?” Misato bitched. She sighed, “Rits-chan, you’re going to have to make me a honest women.”

Ritsuko winked, “Just name the time and place.”

“Anything else interesting happen?” Shinji asked with a blush.

Misato chuckled, “Poor Shinji.”

Taking pity on her Ritsuko said, “Well, it seems we have a rival.”

“Of?” Shinji looked curious.

“Jet Alone had it’s test run,” Ritsuko revealed, “it was successful, surprisingly enough. Gendo’s not happy, as you can imagine.”

“I bet,” Misato nodded with a grin.

“Why would dear old dad,” Shinji’s voice dripped sarcasm, “be unhappy about us possibly getting help?”

Ritsuko fought back a smile, ‘Shinji really doesn’t like Gendo much.’ Calmly she said, “I think he’s concerned that Jet Alone might interfere with our Anti-Angel efforts.”

“So did Jet Alone go with a piloted or unmanned model?” Misato pulled the discussion away from Gendo.

“Manned,” Ritsuko answered, “it seems they ALSO want to copy the AT field, and to have a chance in hell they need a pilot.”

“Ambitious,” Misato conceded.

“Do you know who they got to be a pilot?” Shinji asked curiously.

“A young lady about your age,” Ritsuko said calmly, “at least according to her file. A Miss Mana Kirishima.”

“Mana?” Shinji blinked.

“You know her?” Misato looked at her curiously.

“If it’s the same girl,” Shinji frowned as she finished up her soup, “then yeah, I think she’s in my class.”

“And isn’t that interesting,” Ritsuko blinked.

“All right Shinji,” Misato said as she scooped up the last of her rice, “get close to her and learn all her secrets.”

“I couldn’t do that,” Shinji frowned.

“Kidding,” Misato casually waved a fork, “but...”

“Yes?” Ritsuko asked.

“I do think we’ll take a look into this Mana,” Misato washed her food down with her beer, “just in case.”

“Just don’t do anything too embarrassing,” Shinji sighed.

“Would I do that?” Misato asked innocently.

“My classmates are still talking about the time you went to see my teacher in that mini-skirt,” Shinji pointed out.

Ritsuko chuckled, “She’s got you there.”

Later that evening, when Shinji had retired with his MP3 player and Misato and Ritsuko were lounging on the couch Misato poked Ritsuko in the side and said, “Okay, spill.”

“You saw me react to Mana being her classmate?” Ritsuko murmured.

“Yup,” Misato said, “what’s going on?”

“It’s something from Gendo’s private files,” Ritsuko revealed, “about the children in Shinji’s class.”

“Yes?” Misato asked impatiently.

“They’re all on the Marduk lists,” Ritsuko revealed, “as potential candidates to pilot Evangelion.”

“I’ll be damned...”

To be continued...

Notes: Mana Kirishima is a character from the Evangelion computer games.

Neon Genesis Evangelion: Altered Destinies

Interlude: Secrets and Lies

Ritsuko Akagi's fingers seemed to fly across the two terminals as she worked away, the dyed blonde looking back and forth between the screens with data streaming by on both. Switching over to one hand she reached out and grabbed her cup of coffee and took a long drink, not really noticing that it had gone stone cold.

"Dr. Akagi?" Maya asked softly, the brown haired young woman walking in to the room to stand respectfully to one side, carrying in a set of reports.

"Thank you," Ritsuko didn't look away from her work, but her voice was gentle as she welcomed her in.

"Is there anything I can do to help?" Maya asked curiously as the boyish young woman set the documents and disks down.

"I'm fine," Ritsuko smiled, "just finishing up some programming for the Unit 00 reactivation tests. I shouldn't be long."

"All right," Maya lingered for a moment, then reluctantly left.

After working a few minutes more Ritsuko finished up, logging out of the program then removing a disk from the drive, slipping it into a protective carrier and putting it in her white labcoat's pocket. Pressing a key on the terminal sent another command out, this time going to the complex's security system.

'That'll stop Gendo from seeing the looped images I recorded of me working away,' a smiling Ritsuko thought as she stretched tiredly, 'rather than what I was really doing. Thank goodness Maya didn't insist on staying.'

Just like every other day Ritsuko made her way over to the elevators, rising up from the underground facility of NERV to the surface, then on to the commuter train out to the apartment that she and Misato lived in. She went inside, reaching to flip on the lights then Ritsuko smiled as she felt a familiar presence inside.

"Is that you, love?" Misato called out. She looked up in greeting from where she sat at the dining room table, the black haired woman casually sorting their mail.

"Hi, love," Ritsuko answered. Gesturing Misato to silence she crossed to the kitchen and took a small device from where they had hidden it, activating a switch and instantly shutting down any bugs within one hundred feet.

"Is that necessary?" Misato blinked in alarm.

Ritsuko took the disks out of her pocket as she said to her excitedly, "I think I've got it, or at least some of it."

Hearing that Misato got up, her eyes narrowed in thought. "Then we'd better check it out," she said seriously.

"Lets," Ritsuko agreed and both women headed to the computer they kept in the bedroom. "I downloaded the entirety of one of Gendo's private memory archives," she revealed, "but other than that I don't know what's in it."

"I can't believe the man is hiding his secure files on the Magi," Misato said as she led the way into their bedroom.

Ritsuko activated the computer, waiting a moment for it to start up before sliding the disks in. Mildly she said, "Considering the pure volume of data in the Magi he probably figured that no one would be able to find the archive."

Antivirus and decryption programs activated, scanning the content of the disk and going to work. "And he doesn't know that we're trying to find out what's really going on," Misato added quietly. She looked at Ritsuko fondly, "What convinced you to listen to Kaji, by the way?"

Ritsuko tapped the keyboard, unleashing a second series of decryption systems. "Probably getting a look at the real budget," she confessed, "and seeing the sheer amount of money and resources he's plugging into black projects with no one overseeing him."

"I still remember the first time you showed me Adam," Misato murmured thoughtfully as they waited for the computer to finish, "seeing that thing impaled on the cross beneath NERV... it felt like my blood ran cold."

"Tell me about it," Ritsuko agreed grimly.

There was a soft chime as the programs finished their work and both women leaned forward as the archive opened automatically. A series of pop-up windows appeared on the screen, each one for a different section of the archive, and they began to scan them intently.

"His personal journal," Misato noted, "a report to or from something called SEELE and private correspondence between Gendo and Fuyutsuki."

"Which do you want to look at first?" Ritsuko asked.

"The journal," Misato said after a moment's thought, "if he really thinks it's private he might spill something important."

"Got it," Ritsuko clicked on the journal, the two quickly scanning it. Much of the entries were things they already knew, including the development of the Evangelion Units and the various negotiations involved with NERV, but there were interesting details imbedded in there.

Misato blinked as a very personal reference smacked her between the eyes, "Gendo tried to get you to sleep with him?"

"I did tell you about it," Ritsuko said mildly.

"Maybe, but it's extremely creepy reading it from his point of view," Misato growled out. She scowled, "That slimy little..."

Ritsuko gently put her hand on her lover's arm, "Trust me love, you have nothing to worry about." A smile, "Even if I wasn't committed to you, knowing he had slept with my mom too would have put me off."

"Creep," Misato nodded. Her eyes widened as she read a passage, "Gendo ordered the sabotage of the JA prototype?"

Ritsuko nodded thoughtfully, "They never could explain why that robot went out of control during the test... or why the reactor overloaded."

"But why?" Misato asked, "The machine was clunky, even if they could have gotten it operational it couldn't match Evangelion."

"Maybe, but I doubt Gendo would take the chance," Ritsuko sighed.

"Guess you're right," Misato agreed.

Choosing to close the journal for now they scanned the file on SEELE, but neither could make heads or tails of the rambling document. "What is the Alternate?" Ritsuko pointed to one passage where it almost seemed like Gendo was arguing with the mysterious person or group, "And why do they need Adam's DNA for?"

"Do you really expect me to answer that?" Misato blinked, sitting back and rubbing her eyes.

"We know Rei has Adam's DNA..." Ritsuko mused. Her eyes narrowed, "Are they trying to create another clone?"

"Why," Misato asked, "we already have Rei?" She chuckled humorlessly, "Hell, we have a bin full of them in the basement."

Ritsuko made a face, "Part of Gendo's damn dummy plug project." She shook her head firmly and got back on topic, "Maybe creating a clone for a new purpose? They could be trying to communicate with the Angels."

"Would be nice to know why they're attacking," Misato conceded.

"Well, let's see what the professor has to say," Ritsuko murmured as she clicked the mouse on the third window.

Just then they heard the door open and Shinji call out, "I'm home!"

"Shit," Misato quickly closed the windows and popped out the disk.

Ritsuko quickly concealed the disk then she and Misato hurried out of the bedroom just as Shinji came around the corner. A faint blush colored the young woman's face, "Uhm, if you want I can go out for awhile."

"Hmm?" Ritsuko blinked.

Misato chuckled faintly as she realized what sort of assumption Shinji had come to. "Not today," she smiled, "but I may ask later."

"No problem," Shinji headed into her room.

"What was that about?" Ritsuko frowned, most of her mind still occupied with what they had been reading.

Misato laughed, "I think Shinji believes she interrupted us in the act, so to speak."

To be continued...