Untitled

NEON GENESIS
EVANGELION: R
ILLUSTRATED ORIGINAL FICTION

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Episode 45: "Deep Blue / Manifestations . . . "

(Deep in the very heart of the Northwestern United States . . . in the cracked, sun drenched sands of the Nevada desert . . . the ecosystem, after 15 years of turmoil, has finally begun a return to normalcy.

Nearly all forms of desert life—from cacti, to jackrabbits, to snakes, to the scurrying desert lizards—have once more repopulated the area, which was ravaged by a sudden change in climate that took place almost 15 years earlier. . .

Indeed, the remnants of that change—tundra winds, scarred rock-faces, empty river-beds, and vacant animal grottos—still dot the landscape; there to serve as an ever-constant reminder of Man’s folly, and its horrid effects on the world around him.

The folly, of course, known as the second impact.

These days, calm winds once more billow gently over the sandstone steppes and drifting dunes. . . Dark clouds no longer tear across the now empty, blue sky. . . and life has once more resumed in what was once a barren, sterile waste--filling it with its call . . .

Today, however, something else has joined the song of the wild which hangs in the Nevada desert air--

. . . Something that, in such a serene setting, seems out of place.

It howls through the landscape like a beacon—like an announcement, to the world, of its presence-- of the price that has yet to be paid by mankind for his arrogance . . .

of the new terrors yet to come.

It is the ambient drone of a thousand voices,

raised—

in a continuous scream. . . )

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Television: And, in other news, the American government today outwardly
                disavowed any knowledge of the events leading up to the apparent
                terrorist attack on the UN operated Kobe center in Tokyo 2, which took
                place almost one month ago. Spokesperson Andrew Klein, formerly of the
                American Justice department, decli----

(There is a sudden interruption, followed by a brief surge of static, as the channel is changed)

Television: . . .ome and Take your worry-free test drive of the new Mitsubishi Gal-

(STATIC)

Television: . . . ompany refused to anything more regarding the current figures
                pulled in by Ogura’s new film. Fans were disappointed to hear that
                The executives at TV-T/NAS were also tight-lipped about the budget for
                their other big name picture, the film adaptation of "Neon Gene--

(STATIC)

Television: . . . emoves the stains in seconds, leaving no trace of sta—

(STATIC)

Television: . . .nnant Ladat, you are a disgrace to your uniform, and to the dead! Just what do—

(STATIC)

Television: . . .aptain! How are we supposed to get there when it’s -

(STATIC)

Television: . . .ut neither the state department, nor the U.S. Ministries concerned within the UN, were at
liberty to make a statement . . .

(At last, there is a abrupt "click", as the TV is shut off . . .)

Asuka: (frustrated) Rrrgh! There’s never anything good on anymore—

(With a distressed sigh, Asuka drops the TV remote, turning to the Magazine which lies on the floor below her. It is nearly silent in Major Misato Katsuragi’s apartment, save for the sounds of someone moving about in the kitchen, (and Soryu’s own idle humming ). . . behind Asuka, Rei Ayanami is seated on the couch, thumbing quietly through her Nerv Operations Manual . . .)

(Then, from inside the kitchen, a familiar voice is heard—though it is muffled by the closed kitchen door . . .)

Aoi: What was that? I couldn’t hear you.

Asuka: (Loudly) I said there’s nothing on TV.

(abruptly, Hikari’s voice can be heard calling from the kitchen as well--)

Hikari: Then turn it off.

Asuka: I did.

Aoi: What?

Asuka: (louder) I said I DID.

(seconds later, the kitchen door opens and the two girls enter. In her hands, Hikari Horaki holds a small tray of neatly prepared food, which she places on the table next to Soryu . . .)

Aoi: Fine then—you don’t have to shout. . . . !

Asuka: . . .

Hikari: Thanks for your help in there—

(Tamashii takes a slight bow--)

Aoi: It was no problem . . .Oh, hey, Asuka?

Asuka: What. . .?

Aoi: Did you finish?

Asuka: Finish what?

Aoi: You know—the card? For 6?

Asuka: Oh, that . . . here—

(Without looking, Asuka reaches onto the table above her—
handing Aoi a small, decorative get-well card . . .)

Aoi: (smiling) Thanks . . .

Asuka: Whatever . . .

Hikari: Is that that thing for Anouilh?

Aoi: Yeah. I thought it’d be nice to get all of our class’s sign--

(Tamashii opens the card, which is filled with a number of flamboyant signatures. Her eyes widen, however, as they pass over Asuka’s message.--

--And then, almost Immediately, they fall . . . )

Aoi: (Sighing) Asuka . . .

Asuka: What?

Aoi: "Your Ass Is Mine" Is not quite what I had in mind when I asked you to write him a message . . .

Hikari: . . . !

Asuka: What do you mean?

(Aoi sits at the table, eyeing Asuka)

Aoi: You know what I mean. . .

(Almost immediately, Soryu takes the defensive . . )

Asuka: It’s that idiot’s own fault for getting hurt—he screwed everything up!

Aoi: Maybe yes, and maybe no. But, I mean, really—

Asuka: (interrupting) Look, I don’t want to talk about it. . . !

Aoi: (sighing). . . Suit yourself . . .

Asuka: (mumbling) Anyway, Who cares about some stupid card?

(At this, Aoi smiles slyly—and bends over, whispering into Asuka’s ear--)

Aoi: Hmm. . . Maybe you say that just because you never got one . . .

(suddenly, Soryu’s eyes perk up)

Asuka: (angry) What?

Aoi: (innocently) . . . Nothing . . .

Hikari: Hey Aoi—when are you going to give it to him?

Aoi: Today. I’m on my way there now—I just stopped by to get Asuka’s . . .er . .message . . .

(at once, a mischievous grin passes over Asuka’s own face)

Asuka: (shrewdly) Of course, you’re going there to be alone with him, aren’t you?

Aoi: Wh—what?

Asuka: Oh, you know what I mean! Everybody knows . . .

Hikari: . . .

Aoi: (embarrassed) I—I’m not going alone, silly!

Asuka: (sarcastically) Oh, really?

Aoi: (firmly) . . . yeah . . !

Asuka: Then who are you going with?

Aoi: Who? I—was. . .going with . .um-

(Aoi looks desperately around the room—and, inevitably,
her eyes fall upon Ayanami, who is still patiently reading . . )

Aoi: With—Rei!

Hikari: . . . ?

Rei: . . .

Asuka: Yeah, right.

Aoi: No, really! I was going to ask Ayanami if she’d come along.

Rei: . . .

Asuka: Well, you’d better get going then, eh?

Aoi: You’re right—Come on, Rei.

Rei: What?

(Before Rei can further question the turn of events, however, Tamashii has her by the arm, and hastily pulls her out the door. . . as it closes quickly behind them, Asuka shakes her head. . .)

Asuka: (as the door closes) Feh . . . Dumkopf . . .

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(Moments later, in a subway car speeding toward the center of the city . . .
Rei Ayanami and Aoi Tamashii sit in adjacent seats—Rei still reading her manual as Aoi scans the card meant for the 6th child . . .)

Image by Elaine Cardenas

Aoi: That Asuka . . .

Rei: . . .

Aoi: I’ve never heard anyone give such a fuss over such a little thing!

Rei: . . .

Aoi: (sighing) I guess she’s just sensitive. . .

Rei: . . .

(With this, Aoi smiles, nudging Ayanami teasingly--)

Aoi: Not like you, eh?

(Rei takes a moment from her manual to eye the other girl . . .)

Rei: . . . No. . .

Aoi: (chuckling) Nope. Didn’t think so!

(At last, Aoi puts the card away—humming lightly to herself as the train approaches ever closer to its destination. After a few moments, however, her eyes fall to the Nerv Operations Manual in Ayanami’s hands . . .)

Aoi: Say—what have you got there?

Rei: . . . It is the new Operations manual.

Aoi: Oh! That has something to do with you being a pilot, right?

Rei: . . correct.

Aoi: What’s in it?

Rei: I cannot say.

Aoi: . . . hmm?

Rei: It is not meant for others to read.

Aoi: Aww, Really?

(As the girl inexplicably leans closer for a better look, Rei abruptly
shuts the small book—slipping it swiftly into her pocket . . .)

Aoi: (embarrassed) Oh! . . . Sorry.

Rei: . . .

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Gendo: . . . and?

Ritsuko: That-- is the extent of what we know.

Fuyutsuki: It is . . . somewhat surprising.

Ritsuko: That goes without saying. . .

Fuyutsuki: But—how can you be sure? Without confirmation from the Magi-

Ritsuko: The Magi’s reboot protocols should be complete within the next 60 hours. My department is
working on the re-initialization of Caspar and Melchior as we speak.

Fuyutsuki: What about the third Magus? Balthazaar?

Ritsuko: Of all three Magi, Balthazaar incurred the most damage from the EM surge. It will be some
time before all three are at full operational capacity. But we were lucky . . .

Gendo: I trust it can still be repaired in the allotted time-frame.

Ritsuko: That is what we expect. Although, I will promise nothing . . .

(The scene is the spacious, dimly lit office of Nerv’s supreme commander, Gendo Ikari. Seated at the massive desk occupying the far end of the room, the man is accompanied by Sub-Commander Kouzou Fuyutsuki, who stands dutifully behind him. Both men listen intently as Dr. Ritsuko Akagi, former chief scientist of project E, informs them of the events of only a few hours earlier . . .)

Fuyutsuki: I take it You still have made no new progress with the E.V.N project—

Ritsuko: (interrupting) That is going along at the anticipated pace. With all due respect, be glad that it
is progressing at all;

(She pauses, shaking her head)

Ritsuko: . . . these last two attacks have all but drained our resources . . .

Gendo: I assume the project will be moving slower without the Magi . . . That is why you requested a
meeting, is it not?

Ritsuko: That is only part of the reason.

Gendo: . . .?

Ritsuko: As I said, our analysis shows that Unit 06’s manifestation was
            most probably prompted by the cellular trauma it received during
            the last confrontation. However, as for the true nature of the phenomenon, It
            is impossible to tell safely –not without the guidance of the Magi.

Gendo: Then what are you suggesting?

Ritsuko: That Unit 06 be put in refrigeration indefinitely—at least until all three Magi have been restored . . .

(Ikari’s answer, however, is both slow and deliberate . . .)

Gendo: . . . Request Denied.

(Ritsuko abruptly stops, staring at the man in shock . . .)

Ritsuko: But-

Gendo: Unit 06 shall be placed on standby status with the rest of the
EVAs as soon as the final repairs are completed.
There will be no further deliberation on the subject until the Magi have been restored. . .

(Dr. Akagi’s voice, however, is filled with disbelief)

Ritsuko: Didn’t you hear what I just said? The EVA has not been deemed safe for standar—

Gendo: (interrupting) I have given you my instructions, Doctor.

Ritsuko: . . . .

Gendo: . . .

Ritsuko: (coldly) yes, Sir.

(Ritsuko Eyes the old man behind Gendo for an instant, taking note of the sheer apathy present on his face—

then, she turns away from them both—walking briskly toward the exit.)

Ritsuko: . . .

(as the doors close behind her, she nearly explodes—throwing her clipboards to the floor, where they land with a clatter.)

Ritsuko: (thinking) Arrgh! Just what the hell do you think you’re
going to accomplish by ignoring my advice!? Pompous Fool!

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(meanwhile, far above Nerv . . .)

Hikari: Be that way if you want, Asuka. But you should really consider taking my advice . . .

Asuka: What are you talking about?

Hikari: You know . . .

Asuka: (angrily) Look—When It comes to piloting the EVA, I don’t
need help from anyone or anything. ‘Specially not some
dork that doesn’t have the intelligence to know when to DUCK.

(Hikari, however, remains unfazed by Soryu’s tone-)

Hikari: If that’s how you feel . . . but Still, you should tell me if something’s eating you—

(Asuka looks down to her magazine once more , but does not seem to be looking at anything in particular.)

Asuka: I know. . . But don’t YOU start telling me how to do my job, got it?

Hikari: (Chuckling) got it . . .!

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Aoi: . . . It’s on the 6th floor—room 510. Okay?

Rei: . . .

Aoi: What’s the matter, Rei?

Rei: I don’t understand—why are you giving this to me?

Aoi: Because I can’t deliver it, silly!

Rei: . . .?

Aoi: (embarrassed). . . because . . It’d be . . .you know . . .

(In the general Hospital located near the very center of Tokyo 3, Aoi Tamashii and Rei Ayanami stand before the elevator, which descends to their floor as they wait. Aoi holds the Get Well card, which she now pushes into Ayanami’s hands. . .)
Rei: . . .

Aoi: (sighing) Oh, forget it. We’ll go together . . .

(At last, the doors open, allowing several people stream out. Once it is empty, the two make their way inside. )

(Pressing the button for the 6th floor, Aoi turns once more to Rei--)

Aoi: I’ll go in first . . . then you come in a minute later—okay?

Rei: . . .?

(Ayanami looks at the other girl curiously as the elevator doors close.

( Tamashii , however, is ready to answer her unasked question-)

Aoi: Oh, You know why—Boys these days think they’re special if
you go to visit them . . . but they can be really full of
themselves if Girls go in groups!

Rei: . . .

(No more is said as the elevator ascends—reaching its destination only 3 moments later.
As the doors slide open once more, the two step out into a crowded, noisy hallway . . .

As they reach room 501, Tamashii’s face lights up once again—and she gives Rei a knowing "wink" as she opens the door, stepping inside. . . .)

Rei: . . .

(On the P.A. system in the ceiling above her, the sound of a page rings loudly through the bustling hallway . . .)

Announcement: Dr. Tesuka, Dr. Tezuka, please call extension 0402 . . .
Paging Dr. O. Tezuka, Dr. O. Tezuka, please dial
extension 0402. . .

(a moment Later, the door opens once more—and a slightly long faced Aoi steps out . . .)

Rei: . . ?

Aoi: He’s still sleeping. . .

Rei: . . .

Aoi: I couldn’t find it in my heart to wake him.

(Then, however, Rei notices that the girl still holds the card in her hand . . .)

Rei: (quietly) . . .You . . forgot to leave it for him.

Aoi: Hmm?

(The girl starts—then, realizing what Rei refers to, indicates the card . . . )

Aoi: What, you mean this?

Rei: (nodding)

Aoi: Oh, no . . . I didn’t forget . . .

(Rei gives her a puzzled look. . . to which, Aoi smiles, waving her finger at the EVA Pilot)

Aoi: Half the fun of giving someone something is seeing the
look on their face when they get it!

Rei: . . .

Aoi: C’mon! We’ll just let him sleep for a couple of hours while we go have some fun . . .

Rei: . . . Fun?

(Rei offers no resistance as Aoi takes her by the hand once more, pulling her toward the elevators . . .)

Aoi: (Nodding) Fun!
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(Elsewhere, far west of Tokyo 3, Nerv, and the trivialities of humanity . . .

(In the northern flats of the Nevada desert . . .

(A low rumble—almost a roar—has begun to resonate from the sand-
covered landscape. Above the rocky crags and dried rock-faces, Animals
scurry about—trying to escape the painful vibrations, which slowly seem to grow in intensity . . .

(And then, a large shape-

-almost a shadow-

begins to cast itself over the land . . . .

It seems to grow gradually—

covering dunes and swells in the desert surface for nearly a mile in all directions . . .

And, as if to compliment its sable presence—

The air itself seems to shimmer—

With the sound of screams . . .)

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Asuka: AAARGH!!

Hikari: What? What is it?!

Asuka: I --spilled it!

Hikari: What?

Asuka: Oh, The tea—all over my skirt, too. . . !

Hikari: Here, let me get that for you—

(Hikari stands, reaching over the table with a napkin—but Asuka’s own hand pushes hers away-)

Asuka: It’s okay! I got it! I’m not some invalid, Hikari!

Hikari: . . .

Asuka: (sighing) sorry . . .

Hikari: It’s no problem. . .

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Ritsuko: If you needed help, why not just ask?

Maya: (quietly) You were busy with the commander—I didn’t want to interrupt you.

Ritsuko: But Maya—configuring all the systems by yourself is hard work for one person . . .

Maya: (smiling) It’s a good thing you taught me so well . . .

(Far below the streets of Tokyo 3, in the man-made haven of the primary control center, Maya Ibuki and Ritsuko Akagi confront the momentous task of re-initializing the confused jumble of data that is the Magi’s mainframe . . .

. . . although, at this very moment, it would seem Miss Ibuki has taken the initiative . . .)

Ritsuko: (Thinking) at least someone around here still listens to me . . .

(Maya, though busy at her terminal, still manages to throw a question in Dr. Akagi’s direction--)

Maya: So, what did the commander say?

Ritsuko: (sighing) We have to keep unit 06 on full standby status until
the Magi have been restored . . .

(Maya suddenly stops, turning to Ritsuko with a distressed look on her face--)

Maya: (Quietly) But—Ma’am—isn’t that dangerous . . ?

(Dr. Akagi gives her a quiet nod)

Ritsuko: (distantly) Yes Maya, as a matter of fact, it’s very dangerous.

Maya: Didn’t you try to—

(Ibuki, however, realizes what she is about to say, and stops—returning to her work)

Maya: I mean . . . yes ma’am.

(As Ritsuko busies herself at her own terminal, the door behind them opens—
and Major Misato Katsuragi enters. . .)

Ritsuko: (without looking) So—to what do I owe this visit?

(Misato folds her arms, leaning against the wall--)

Misato:   Well! You can imagine my surprise when Commander Ikari
            sent me down here to make sure you were following his
            orders. . .

Ritsuko: (smiling) So, he’s stooped to watching me like a hawk, has he?

Misato: Hmmph.

(Suddenly, Dr. Akagi stands—turning to Misato, who has her eyes locked on the massive status screens overhead . . .)

Ritsuko: Come with me, Major. I want to show you something.

(As Ritsuko walks on ahead of her, Misato stands from her relaxed position --)

Misato: Why is it I get a bad feeling these days whenever I here you say those 6 words?

Ritsuko: "Ha. . "

(Reluctantly, Misato follows her to the elevator . . )

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Aoi: (humming) . . .

Rei: . . .

Aoi: So?

Rei: . . .?

Aoi: (playfully) Come on, Rei! You can’t dodge my questions forever!

(Far above Nerv, in the streets of Tokyo 3, Rei Ayanami and Aoi Tamashii make their way leisurely through the city’s shopping district . . . Tamashii, walking with her hands behind her head, looks at Rei inquisitively . . .)

Rei: . . .I . .

(At Rei’s inability to answer, Aoi smiles knowingly-)

Aoi: Okay, okay, then here’s another one—

Rei: . . ?

Aoi: What . . . kind of boys do you like?

Rei: . . .!

(Despite Ayanami’s silence, however, Aoi remains expectant)

Aoi: Well?

Rei: . . .

(Suddenly, Tamashii stands in front of the girl, her arms raised as she bars the way--)

Aoi: Ah-ah-ah! You’ve got to say something! At least tell me that!

(After a moment, Rei finds the words . .)

Rei: I . . I don’t know.

Aoi: . . . Oh, come on! I’m your friend, aren’t I?! I promise I won’t tell!

Rei: . . .

Aoi: (quietly) Hmmph. Well, you know, I DID hear that you had something for . . Ikari . . .

(at this, Rei’s eyes seem to go wide)

Aoi: Ahh, I knew it!

(Aoi beams at her triumph as the two continue on their way up the street . . )

Rei: You are mistaken . . . I do not know him – I am the th-

(Ayanami nearly jumps, however, as her companion suddenly
wraps an arm around her shoulder, pressing on-)

Aoi: Oh, don’t play that game with me! I know how you looked at him!
And you let on a lot more than you know, silly!

(At long last, Rei’s cheeks begin to burn red with embarrassment . . . or perhaps unease . . .)

Aoi: Oh, don’t act so embarrassed! From the way you two were,
It sounded like you were already family!

(At these words, Rei quietly eyes the other girl . . . Tamashii, however, seems unaware of her gaze--)

Aoi: . . . so . . . What does he say to you?

Rei: . . he . .

Aoi: Does he ever write you poetry!?

Rei: I. . .

Aoi: How many dates have you two had?

Rei: . . . We have not . . .

Aoi: Look, Rei—girls are supposed to share these things with each
other! Really! It—It’s like a bond-- That we all have! I
mean, What’s the point of keeping a secret if you don’t tell SOMEBODY, right!?

Rei: . . .

(Several seconds pass, with no response. At last, Aoi throws up her hands in defeat)

Aoi: Okay. Be that way. But mark my words, Rei Ayanami—
You can’t keep something like that from me that easily!

(Suddenly, however, she stops—her face brightening up at the site of
something in one of the nearby store windows . .)

Aoi: Hey! Look at that!

Rei: What?

Aoi: That dress!

(indeed, it is a woman’s apparel shop that Aoi points to. )

Rei: . . .

(Weaving between crowds of midday shoppers, Aoi pulls the unknowing
EVA pilot toward the display placed in large window the storefront.

Pressing her face to the glass, Tamashii gives the red outfit a once over,
scrutinizing every inch of fabric with eager eyes . . )

Aoi: It’s so pretty!

Rei: . . .

Aoi: Well? What do you think?

Rei: . . .

(Rei, however, is silent)

Aoi: Hmm. . . I thought so.

(Tamashii takes a step back, measuring the frock with her eyes . . .
then, she frowns, pinching her own waist . . .)

Aoi: Awww . . . It’s too small . . . !

Rei: . . .

(Aoi eyes her figure, mumbling to herself as Ayanami looks on . . .)

Aoi: ‘Could probably lose maybe a pound or two . . .oh, but that’d
take too long . . . besides, I don’t think he’d notice--

(A moment later, Aoi becomes aware of Ayanami’s gaze . . .)

Aoi: (suddenly embarrassed) Oh! I mean—I don’t think it’s quite my size . .

(Then, however, Tamashii seems to take a second notice of Rei . . .
and look of realization dawns . . )

Aoi: Say . . . you know, I bet . . .

(Rei makes no movement as the girl takes her by the shoulders—
holding her directly in front of the window--)

Rei: . . .

Aoi: (quietly) Well—I’d say you’re a petite . . . What do you think?

Rei: . . . Perhaps.

Aoi: Well? Do you like it?

(Rei does not take her eyes from the scarlet dress as she responds)

Rei: I don’t think so.

Aoi: Why? Not your color?

(Slowly, Rei nods . . .)

Rei: I . . dislike red. . .

Aoi: (quietly) Oh . . .

Rei: . . .

(then, strangely enough, Aoi’s tone becomes a very serious one . . .)

Aoi: But, you know, Rei . . . It . . . matches your eyes . . .

Rei: . . .

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

Misato: What the hell is that?

Ritsuko: This, Major Katsuragi, is Evangelion unit 06.

Misato: No it’s not!

(At her disbelief, Ritsuko grins)

Ritsuko: You’re not the first person to have that reaction . . .

(Many meters below the city, in observation deck above EVA containment cage
07, Ritsuko Akagi and Misato Katsuragi stand before the massive, submerged form
of unit 06 . . . its head armor not yet in place, the two onlookers are afforded an
excellent—and, some would say, gruesome—view of the Evangelion’s distorted features . . .)

Misato: But—I thought it only had one eye?! This--this thing’s got SIX, for God’s sake!

Ritsuko: Did you already forget what I told you on the way down here?

Misato: Feel free to refresh my memory.

Ritsuko: (sighing) Of course . . .As I said, we encountered a bit of a snag
during the unit’s repair process yesterday—

Misato: (indicating the EVA) You call—this—a "snag?"

Ritsuko: In strictly scientific terms, yes . . .

(Suddenly, Ritsuko pauses—looking around the empty containment bay,
as if to be sure no one else is present)

Misato: What? What is it?

(At once, Dr. Akagi’s voice becomes much slower and more deliberate--)

Ritsuko: You know unit 06 was constructed here, at Nerv’s own facilities, correct?

Misato: Yes—

Ritsuko: Then you also know that, because of a shortage of viable materials,
we were forced to use organic components that were generated from
cellular tissue samples taken from EVA units 00 and 02, right?

Misato: Well—um—

Ritsuko: Oh, Don’t insult me, Major. I’m well aware of your little delves into the Magi’s classified files.

(At once, Misato regains her composure)

Misato: (annoyed). . . What of it?

Ritsuko: Well, in the middle of the development schedule, we decided to
use the 06 project as an opportunity—to create a
new form of EVA Genotype. . .

Misato: What, You mean like a new version?

(Ritsuko removes her glasses, rubbing her eyelids)

Ritsuko: . . . Sort of. Basically, what we were dealing with was hybridization.

Misato: . . .

Ritsuko: Unfortunately, In the early activation trials, we found that the
                EVA’s systems were not quite in synch with each
              other—there were quite a bit of connection failures, coupled with
                some system malfunctions. We realized it was a
               result of an inherent INCOMPATIBILITY between units 00 and 02.

Misato: . . . I don’t like where this is going, Ritsuko . . .

(Ritsuko cannot help but grin at her friend’s unease, then continues-)

Ritsuko: Oh, won’t you? We realized that any attempts at stabilization on
                our part would be merely temporary. So, my department began
                work on integrating a third set of organic materials into unit 06’s system—
                to act as a catalyst, of sorts . . . and, considering the general lack of genetic
                data available, we were forced to use specimens from the
              nearest capable donor. . .

Misato: (in disbelief). . . Unit 01 . . .

(Akagi simply nods . . .)

Ritsuko: The grafts, however, would not take hold—there was a tissue rejection
from both the donor cells AND the recipient,
which is unprecedented, to say the least . . .

Misato: (pointing at unit 06) then—how do you explain that?

Ritsuko: Officially, I can’t—not with the Magi off-line.

Misato: And Un-officially?

Ritsuko: that—the regeneration pattern you see here is a direct result of
            contact with the last Angel. Somehow, it’s possible
             that the trauma caused by the 20th angel’s attack may
            have somehow prompted the tissue from EVA 01 to be
            accepted.

Misato: . . .

Ritsuko: But, once again, I can’t be sure.

(Misato is quiet for a moment, as all that Ritsuko has said sinks in—
then, however, a curious look crosses her face-)

Misato: Why are you telling me all this?

Ritsuko: Take a look around you, Major. Does it look like command is
taking any precautions in light of all this?

Misato: -

Ritsuko: (flatly) The instructions Commander Ikari ordered you to make
                        sure that I followed were to prepare this abomination
                          for combat . . . with Lyn as the designated pilot—despite my warnings,
                        and without the Magi’s consent.

Misato: . . . !

Ritsuko: So, you’ll understand if I’m a bit hesitant to do the deed.

Misato: But--this makes no sense—

Ritsuko: No Kidding . . .

Misato: Just what am I supposed to do?

Ritsuko: It’s not my concern. I simply felt you had to know—

Misato: (sarcastically) Oh, how gracious you are!

Ritsuko: . . .

Misato: . . .What you’ve DONE, ‘dear friend,’ is put me on the spot.

Ritsuko: I’m not going to give you any suggestions, Major.

(Ritsuko stops, casting a faraway eye on the distorted features of the EVA below them.)

Ritsuko: (quietly) That’s beyond me, now.

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

(Meanwhile, hundreds of miles from Nerv . . .

(The sound of screams has grown ever louder in the arid wastes of the Nevada Desert.

(A large, ominous shadow now covers the landscape for nearly 60 kilometers
in all directions—casting a dark shroud over the sandy hills and valleys in its wake . . .

And then,

Seemingly, without reason,

The ambient wail begins to rise in pitch,

building to a fervor the likes of which the world has not yet seen—

Inevitably, The noise is carried by the zephyric desert winds over vast distances in all directions,

And, throughout the affected area, Animals scurry into their homes . . . or take flight for faraway lands . . .

For they know what is coming . . .)

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

Aoi: You know something, Rei?

Rei: . . . what?

Aoi: You’re just as peaceful as they say you are.

Rei: . . .

Aoi: You know, I once noticed that, if a girl has an older brother or a sister,
She sometimes grows up as quiet as you—

Rei: . . . Why?

Aoi: Because her parents don’t spend enough time with her, and she grows up alone.

Rei: . . .

Aoi: How many sisters do you have, anyway?

Rei: . . None.

Aoi: Really?

Rei: Yes.

Aoi: Hmmph. ‘Cause I can usually tell these things, you know.
Kind of like a sixth sense.

Rei: . . .

Aoi: (laughing) If I didn’t know better, I’d say you’d had twenty sisters or something!

(The scene is the lower east side of Tokyo 3’s central district. In a small Ramen stand located on a convenient street corner, Aoi Tamashii and Rei Ayanami sit, eating from small bowls of steaming Udon . . .)

Aoi: Rei . . ?

Rei: What?

Aoi: . . . have you ever felt . . . incomplete?

Rei: . . .

Aoi: Like . . . like there was something missing? From you? Inside?

Rei: . . . yes . . .

(Aoi looks at the EVA pilot intently for a moment-)

Aoi: Almost Like you had no purpose?

Rei: . . no . . . not that . . .

(At this, Tamashii frowns—returning to her meal)

Aoi: (sighing) Well, then, I guess you’re one of the lucky ones.

(Rei puts down her chopsticks for a moment, looking at the steaming broth in the bowl before her)

Rei: Mankind searches for purpose in everything he does. But, when he
finds it, he also finds he has none left to pursue.

(Aoi, oddly enough, seems unfazed by Ayanami’s statement . . .)

Aoi: Hmmm. . ? Oh . . . I really don’t think so.

Rei: What?

Aoi: ‘Mankind searches for purpose in all things.

Rei: . . .

Aoi:    When he finds it, he also finds that there is a greater purpose
            yet to be discovered. Then, when he finds that, he learns
            of yet another, greater purpose. . .

Rei: . .

Aoi: You know? Kind of like a chain.

Rei: . . . yes .

(Rei looks on curiously as Aoi continues, playing with the noodles in her own dish . . .)

Aoi: (laughing). . . Personally, I think trying to find a reason to justify
                        his existence is one of the things that makes mankind
                    special. It’s about the only thing that separates humans from
                    the rest of the animals. . .

Rei: . . . !

(As Aoi finishes her sentence, Rei nearly gasps. . .)

Aoi: . . What? Did I say something wrong?

Rei: . . . No . . .

(Tamashii frowns, placing her hand on Ayanami’s own-)

Aoi: Look, Rei, you’re really on edge.

Rei: . . .

Aoi: You’ve got to learn to relax a bit more!

Rei: . . .

(Finally, Aoi stands—placing the payment for their bill on the plate next to her bowl)

Aoi: Come on—I’m in the mood for some ice cream!

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

(Elsewhere, far from Tokyo 3, Nerv, and the rest of Japan . . .

The sable, ebony shroud that now covers nearly 60 km of the central Nevada Desert—

-- has begun to churn.

Not unlike a modern day Charybdis, the black shadow seems to boil—

Distorting light around it, it creates a seething, heaving pool of darkness which absorbs the midday sunshine like some unearthly black hole . . .leaving behind a horrid whirlpool of night, that swells and rises to a song of screams which hangs in the air like cloud of locusts. . .

Suddenly, however, the gloom is shattered by a momentary flash of light—as the unholy wails that course through the air reach their horrifying apex, there is a tremendous outpouring of raw energy--

And finally,

for the briefest instant,

the very fabric of reality . . .

. . . is torn . .

. . .twisted . . .

. . .and, at last . . .

. . .rent wide open . . .)

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

(Meanwhile, in EVA containment cage 07 . . . )

Misato: There’s more to this than you’re letting on!

Ritsuko: Oh, Really? Is there?

Misato: Let’s just say it doesn’t quite make sense . . .

(Ritsuko sighs, putting her glasses back on)

Ritsuko: Frankly, I can’t blame you for questioning me.

Misato: You’re damn right.

Ritsuko: Look, Misato—you must have realized by now that . . .
commander Ikari . . . has his own agenda. One that is
separate from Nerv’s and the committee’s.

(Misato is silent—and looks at the floor uneasily)

Ritsuko: In fact . . I’m willing to bet you also know about the E.V.N proje-

(Before Ritsuko can finish, however, she is interrupted by the sounds of the early-warning alarm system—which rings loudly in the spacious containment bay at an almost deafening pitch . . .)

Misato: (Shouting) What!? What’s going on!?

Ritsuko: (Shouting) I don’t know—we’ve got to contact the control center-!

(As if responding to Dr. Akagi’s suggestion, Hyuga’s voice can be heard over the cacophony-)

Hyuga: Dr. Akagi! Major Katsuragi!

(On the screen to Misato’s right, the image of Makoto Hyuga appears. In the background, it is obvious that the control center is in a frenzy—as technicians and servicemen alike shout to each other above the wail of the alarms . . .)

Ritsuko: Hyuga! What’s going on!?

Hyuga: We’ve got a situation--You’ve got to get up here!

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

(Only moments later, in the Nerv Control center . . . )

Misato: Status report!

Hyuga:   We didn’t have the Magi’s analysis to fall back on, but
            our secondary sensors just picked up a large energy surge in
            the vicinity of Northwestern North-America—around coordinates 141, 222 . .!

Misato: Have you gotten any word from the U.S. government? What was the cause?

(At the console to Katsuragi’s right Shigeru, who has his ear to the phone, responds to
the query. . .)

Shigeru: The U.S. first branch has just confirmed the energy surge—
            but it was so close to them that the wave burned out
              every one of their detection systems! They can’t verify whether
            or not we’re dealing with another possible target--

Ritsuko: What about our own observation systems?

Maya: Fujiko-03 reports Our 6th Reconnaissance Satellite will be
in Geo-synchronous orbit above the affected area in
exactly two minutes-

Misato: Have you notified commander Ikari?

Hyuga: Yes, sir—he’s on his way now . . .

Ritsuko: Maya! get ready to relay the incoming data directly into
our secondary’s memory reserves—we don’t want to lose
anything-

Maya: Yes Ma’am.

(seconds later, the sound of the transport elevator arriving in the control room can be heard. As Commander Gendo Ikari steps off the small, steel platform, he is met by Fuyutsuki—who is already at his post . . .

. . . strangely enough, however, the sub-commander is noticeably calm . . .)

Fuyutsuki: You seem troubled—I take it this was NOT in the predictions?

Gendo: (shaking his head) No. It is too soon

Fuyutsuki: Hmmph . . .

(At once, The commander’s voice can be heard over the fervent of the control center-)

Gendo: (Shouting) What is the status of our visual satellite transmission?

Maya: 1 minute until we’re within range.

Gendo: Very good—switch to second stage alert. All hands are to stand down!

Shigeru: Yes, sir!

(immediately, the alarm is silenced—)

Gendo: Get me the first branch.

Shigeru: I have them on line 51—

(Gendo picks up the receiver at his desk, typing in the code for a connection with the 51st line. . .)

Maya: 30 seconds . . .

(As Ibuki continues the countdown, Misato turns to Commander
Fuyutsuki, who stands next to Ikari at the large desk which overlooks the control center . . . )

Misato: Sir—shall I get the EVAs on standby?

Fuyutsuki: (calmly) I don’t think there will be any need for that just yet, Major.

(Ikari, Meanwhile, has met with a voice almost hysterical with fear on the other end of line . . .)

Gendo: Understood. . . At approximately what time did it occur? . . . . I see. . .

Maya: 20 seconds . . .

Ritsuko: Pull the data up on the display now—we’ll need to use
it as a point reference.

Maya: Yes Ma’am-

(Quickly, Maya complies—keying in the necessary commands . an instant later, the main viewscreen is alight with an image of the earth from low orbit—a large bank of clouds obscuring the view of the planet’s surface below . . .)

Maya: The Satellite should clear the cloud formation in 10 seconds.

Maya: 9 . . .

8 . . .

7 . . .

6 . . .

5 . . .

4 . . .

3 . . .

2 . . .

One . .!

(As the countdown terminates, the cloud formation which obstructs the image of the earth below finally clears. . .

. . . What is revealed, however, is a startling sight that, in all probability, no one in Nerv Command
ever expected to see again . . .

. . . This is illustrated by a collective gasp, which sounds loudly in the control center as the full image comes into view . . .)

Ritsuko: (quietly) Oh my . . .My God . .!

Misato: (shocked) What—what’s that?-!

Hyuga: This—t-this makes no sense, Major!

Maya: But--The secondaries confirm it, Ma’am.

Ritsuko: But—this is impossible!

Shigeru: Sat Ops is also confirming it . . .

Misato: . . .

Shigeru: . . . It’s the Second Branch, sir!

Ritsuko: . . .

Gendo: . . .

Fuyutsuki: The . . . Second Branch . . .

(Indeed, on the landscape far below, is the image of the familiar Nerv installation . . .)

(At his desk high above the rest of the control center, Gendo’s serious look has contorted into one that borders on disbelief—with, perhaps, a hint of rage . . .)

Fuyutsuki: (quietly) You realize this is not just at odds with your scenario . . .

Gendo: (coldly) Perhaps . . . but, in any case, this truly complicates matters . . .

(At last, the man’s tone seems to calm—and Ikari begins to exert control once more . . .)

Shigeru: Should I notify the first branch, sir?

Gendo: Yes—tell them our Satellite could not penetrate the cloud layer.

Hyuga: .W .. What?

Shigeru: But sir—

Gendo: Do It!

(Shigeru looks to his other two companions, who return equally confused gazes. Then, hesitantly, he complies , picking up the phone . . . )

Shigeru: Y-Yes . .sir . . .

(At this, Fuyutsuki turns once more to Ikari . . )

Fuyutsuki: How much time do you think we’ll have before the Americans discover what’s occurred?

Gendo: Not enough, I’m afraid. We must act quickly.

Fuyutsuki: Hmmph.

Gendo: . . . The vultures should be circling as we speak . . .

(No more is said as the men turn their eyes, once more, to the incredible sight unfolding on the viewscreen above them . . .)

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

Aoi: WAKE UP!

Lyn: Mmhh . . Wha—t?

Aoi: Come on, 6! You’re not going to sleep the whole day, are you!?

(In the general hospital located far above Nerv Headquarters, Lyn Anouilh awakes groggily to the sound of a familiar female voice pulling him gently from the land of dreams . . .)

Lyn: What—

Aoi: He’s up! My Boy’s finally awake!

(To Anouilh’s furthered bewilderment, the girl wraps her arms around him in an impromptu hug-)

Lyn: (stuttering) Hey—Aoi---Come on—Cut-!

(Lyn falls silent for a second, noticing Rei Ayanami standing in the doorway. The girl looks on without a word, eyeing the two placidly . . .)

Aoi: What? Can’t I be happy to see you?

(With this, the girl squeezes tighter—Much to Anouilh’s Chagrin . . .)

Lyn: Aoi! Come on! Really!

(Reluctantly, the girl releases him . . . a satisfied smile on her face . . .)

Aoi: (warmly) Okay . . . but you’ve got to repay me later . . .

Lyn: Hmm?

Aoi: For this . . .

(At once, Aoi gently places the Get well card in Lyn’s hands, patting him lightly on the cheek.)

Aoi: Now-- you do just what the card says and get well soon, Sixth Child!

Lyn: (meekly) Heh . . yes Ma’am . . .

Aoi: And . . . I’ll see you on the outside . . .

(With this, the girl gives him a knowing look, stepping gracefully out the door. . .)

(Lyn looks at the card a moment, then to Rei, who still stands by the entrance. . )

Lyn: Oh! Hi, Rei! Um . . . What’s up?

(Oddly enough, Rei almost smiles . . )

Rei: Not very much. . . I . . hope you feel well.

(With this the girl exits, closing the door softly behind her. . . Lyn watches on for a moment, still somewhat confused.

Then, he turns to the small card in his hands. Opening it, the pilot finds a dozen or so friendly messages, scrawled in various colors of ink. . . . and, as he Reads them, he feels, for the first time in weeks, a sense of belonging . . .

Then, however, he notices one message in particular—and cannot help but take a second look. Realizing his eyes are not deceiving him, he shrugs, reading aloud--)

Lyn: Y—"Your Ass is MINE?"!?

-----------------------------------------------------------------------
To Be Continued . . .