Authors Note: This chapter contains pretty graphic violence[ but in a good way ;) ]

Part 0.7; You Can( Not )Give Up

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It was the time they had waited for. The final meeting. They hid their forms behind the fifteen numbers. Each one a being; a creation bounded by their natural limits. It was their source of power and despair.

"The promised day has arrived. Our time has come at last."

"Long have we waited for this. The end of Lilin-kind..."

"And the beginning of a new era."

"The rebirth of all as the First Ancestral Race wished..."

"Upon the first sending of the gift, Adam and the White moon."

"Yet it's cursed brethren followed."

"We will cleanse the spawn of Lilith and the Black moon…

"Creator of the flawed life upon this planet!"

"Even without the Lance we crafted…"

"Our goals can still be realized..."

"Through the final vessel and Angel, Tabris!"

"Ikari's motives no longer matter."

"His efforts have been in vain."

"The plans and forces are ready to be set into unstoppable motion."

All had spoken, except one. The one known by the fixed digit.

"The desires we hold must be seen through to divine termination. The will of God demands that Earth be returned to Adam. Through the Angel's victory, the Seeds of Life shall be reclaimed to their natural place in the universe."

"Then do not torture our patience."

"Let this world meet it's fate."

"Very well."

"Commence Project 'Redemption'; Operation 'Masada' and Operation 'Red Sea'. For our victory shall bring forth the light of purity, from the veil of life's discrepancies."

[-][-][-][-][-][-][-][-][-][-][-][-][-][-][-][-][-][-][-][-][-][-][-][-][-][-]

Bang!

She always loved that sound.

Bang! - Bang!

A simple cause-and-effect mechanism. For only a few pounds of pressure on a specific point, one gets a incredibly satisfying reaction.

Bang! - Bang! - Bang! Bang! Bang! - *click*

Misato flicked out the empty magazine and sighed, removing her ear-muffs.

…..four to the chest…..two to the head…two to the neck…eight hostiles dead….

The clink of a loaded gun from behind and her military impulses took hold. She whipped out her pistol and spun around, firearm raised.

A man had the butt of a rifle resting against a ledge, trying hard to attach a scope and failing miserably. He grunted, attempting to wedge it on before noticing a circular, black barrel pointed at his head.

"Ohayo, Misato."

"Kaji, what are you doing?!", she scolded, lowering her stance.

"I'm a little rusty on my skills." he said, finally ramming it into place, "Can't remember the last time I fired one of these."

"Why did you feel the need to try again now?"

He smiled and plucked a cigarette from his shirt pocket.

"Call it instincts, if you want."

He lit it in a gentlemanly fashion and locked a round in.

"I'm calling it assurance."

He flicked up the stand, steadying the weapon and aimed down the sights.

"Not bad Misato, not bad at all.", acknowledging her accuracy.

"Let's see you do better then!".

She folded her arms and waited as her once intimate lover relaxed.

…...he can't remember the last time….then why do I?..…...

Crack! - *cla-chink*

One target shattered. The impact of the shot surprised her, but moreso by how comfortably Kaji had taken the vicious recoil.

Crack! - *cla-chink* - Crack! - *cla-chink* - Crack! - *cla-chink*

Three more targets crumpled. Kaji blew a stray hair away with smoky breath and finished off the remaining targets. The final shot ricocheted, hitting the concrete wall and ground, tinkling as it rolled in the echoes of gunfire.

"You're lying.", Misato said softly, as Kaji picked up the rifle.

The sharp noise faded.

"Honestly, I haven't fired this in at least-"

She shook her head, walking over to him and taking a cigarette.

"Not that, Kaji. Stop playing around."

He took a moment to prop himself up on the rifle.

"Ah, yes, now I remember. It was our last day together. We visited the firing range. You wanted to see who had a better shot."

Misato leaned against the wall, shaking down her hair, inhaling a long drag of burning tobacco and nicotine.

"Huh, I was really only wanting to see if you felt the same way, about us. I knew you did when you hit every single target; and didn't say a word."

"What happened to us, Misato."

She gave a tragic smile.

"You know the answer to that..."

"It was a long time ago. We're both different people now."

"No. We only try to be. We can act like our pasts gave us experience, but it's just a way of renaming mistakes. Nothing changes about who we are; only where we are."

"If so, then why are we here?"

Neither moved. They shared the smoke of unified solitude.

"Would you like to know why I came here ?"

He left the rifle aside and finished his cigarette to the butt.

"Only if it would interest me.", she replied.

"It would, but not how you think."

…...like I said…...nothing changes….he's an enigma…..and I'm still decoding…

He pulled out a memory stick from his pocket and handed it to her.

"I was a Special Investigator to SEELE for many years, and am Head of two entire divisions here in NERV. The knowledge and data on this drive I wasn't told from either, but from my own search; my personal hunt for the truth."

He reached out, pushing it into her palm and folding her fingers around it. His touch was just as gentle from in her discordant memories.

"You musn't access the information until the time comes. I can't say when it will, but you'll know when it does."

Misato tucked it into her jacket pocket.

"What's in it?"

"The kind of knowledge that will help you. Not now, but in the future. It can tell you of things to come soon, but it's far too late to stop those. Once you understand what's inside, you can never turn back."

He glanced at his watch and shook his iconic pony-tail.

"Well, looks like I gotta go."

As he stepped past, Misato grabbed onto his wrist. She held it, unsure what the intention was.

"Don't do anything stupid.", she eventually managed.

"If I didn't, you wouldn't be thanking me."

"Arigato then."

He turned his back to leave.

"Kaji", she spoke, "See if you remember this; What kind of man cannot stand on his own feet?"

He smirked.

"A lonely man."

…..bastard….

His scent of burnt tobacco and cologne lingered long after he left. She appreciated it before her phone chimed and buzzed furiously to get attention.

"What is it, Riko?"

"Get up to Central Dogma now!"

The sirens started to blare.

0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0

Shinji sat mutely on the tram, hands in his closed legs, holding his father's cassette player. The cord of headphones dangled between his ears and the tape. In it resided 26 pieces, ranging between all classical eras, opera, some jazz and even traditional japanese.

A brass and piano cover of 'Autumn Leaves' finished the set and the tape rewound itself, beginning again with the cherishing affection of Bach's, 'Joy of Man's Desiring'. It had a hum that made Shinji feel snug in his solitude.

….love…...Kaworu...lust…...romance…heart...wanting?...others different…...my father…...acknowledgement…..pride….blood...Rei…...Ayanami?….which?...care…trust….soul?...

It was with pleasant curiosity when he found Rei's invitation written in neat and ornate calligraphy. It had simply read;

'Lunch. 1 o'clock. Saturday. My residence. Ikari will be there.'

The metallic rattling slowed as the tram came to halt.

Shinji stepped off with the handful of other strangers. Strangers whose lives he had saved numerous times. Strangers for whom he had fought, protected and suffered excruciating agony. A pain only a few others knew.

…..but now I have reason to fight…...something more than a duty…...a will!...

A finger tapped his shoulder.

"Sumimasen, oh, excuse me."

Shinji turned to face an eager schoolgirl. She seemed shy but more willing than her group of friends who huddled together and snickered amongst themselves behind.

"Ohayo! What can I do for you?"

"It's that, I think I may recognize you.", she said shyly, "Are you the pilot of an Evangelion?"

"Oh! ", he responded, surprised, "I am actually. How did you-"

Before he could finish his question, the group descended upon him like gulls to scraps, screaming and squawking for a share.

Shinji's attempts to calm the situation were fruitless and he decided it would be better to run. He ducked under, managing to wiggle and weave his way out.

He ran from the frenzied group, sprinting through the waiting area and past the main entrance, turning to hide in an alley. They passed by as he panted heavily, recovering his breath.

"Hey", a man said walking up to him, "You the kid those teens were going crazy over?"

"Yeah, sorry. I didn't think they would-"

A fist smashed him in the stomach, forcing the air from his lungs. Shock enveloped him. He had no breath to cry out. Shinji raised his arms instinctively but a second fist swung round and connected with his cheek, driving him into a pile of waste bags. He panicked and tried to crawl away, but the instant he moved, pain shot through him like fire. The man grabbed his collar, lifting him up and hurling him back to the ground at full force. The innocent boy tasted blood and stomach acid on the impact.

...why…..what have I done?...why do I deserve this!...have I not suffered enough!….

Confused, Shinji grabbed a rusty shard of metal and swung it wildly. The man easily pinned him down and relentlessly began pummeling him with white knuckled fists. The benign teen was helpless to resist.

Every hit was harder, punches landing on bone and flesh, reverberating throughout. His chest cracked. Warm streams trickled off his face. Through the blinding pain, Shinji could hear the man seething in anger, muttering incomprehensibly.

…..please…..kudasai…...Kaworu…...help me!….Kaworu!…

The blows suddenly ceased. A grunt and connection, and Shinji felt the man's weight thrown off him. He could barely open his eyes but made out a figure standing against the sunlight, leg extended.

"You're that other bitch, aren't you!?"

Silence.

"AREN'T YOU!?"

"...why are you hurting him...?"

…...Rei?...

"Because he destroyed my home! And don't think you're not guilty either. You damn pilots have demolished entire neighbourhoods! You're supposed to protect us, SO TELL ME WHY MY FAMILY HAD TO BE CRUSHED TO DEATH UNDER A-"

A shoe struck his face. The lost man's head snapped back with a faint crack and his body crumpled, limp.

"...we have only been following orders….nothing more…."

"R-...Rei…", he said, voice hoarse and quiet.

She walked over and helped him up, letting him lean on her shoulders. Blood dripped onto her floral blouse that she had dressed in for the meal.

"A-...A-ri-...Arigato…Go-...zaima-..."

"...don't talk….focus on walking….I'll take you home…..to my home….."

…...someone is always here….when I ask for help…..Misato…...Kaworu…...Rei….they are all…...strong…..I'm just….weak…...a coward…...coward…...

They hobbled down the street slowly gaining pace as Shinji regained his feet. The pair passed by the fruit orchard, climbed the stairwell and reached her apartment. Rei pulled out a key from her pocket and unlocked the door. Shinji smiled weakly.

…...she got…..a lock…...safe…..protection…home…..

/ \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \

In the back seat of a sleek, black car, the visionary man sat. His mind was elsewhere. As reflections of chrome skyscrapers and busy streets rushed by his window frame view, memories seeped into his thoughts. He had no time for imagining.

He had not hazed his memory with wishful thinking. Every moment past was a lucid reality.

…..Yui…...my flower…..I shared my life with yours…we will be together…...again….

His personal mobile rang. His veteran comrade spoke.

"Seele have made their first move. It has begun."

"Jokai."

He hung up and dialled one of the only three numbers he had.

"Special Investigator."

"Lieutenant. But hai, Kaji here, what is it?"

"Return all pilots to Central Dogma immediately and begin preparations for battle. Seele are enacting their plan. Keep civilian evacuation as a lowest priority, all efforts must go into defending the Geo-Front and Central Dogma."

"Jokai. The Sixth, Fourth and Fifth children are secure but we do not have the current whereabouts of the First, Second or Third."

The Commander glanced out the window and saw a swarm black dots, spanning across the entire horizon.

"Lieutenant", he replied, "Locate the Second Child. I shall personally return the First and Third."

"Very well. I already suspect I know where she shall be. One last thing, Commander."

"Speak."

"Good luck."

Gendo ended the call.

"Driver?"

"To Rei's, sir?"

"With haste. Time is not our ally."

The chauffeur stepped onto the accelerator and hand-brake turned the corner, speeding into the highest gear and tearing down the street.

…..the first pebble has been dropped…..it shall be a long wait until it rises….to become a wave..

The patient man put on his white gloves, fixed his tinted glasses and checked his firearm was still nestled by his chest.

The car swerved to avoid a convoy of trucks for NERV Special Ops. Kaji did not intend to just wait inside the Geo-Front, but to bring the fight to the city. A risky move. Unclear whether for strategical victory or buying time. Either way, the Commander trusted his judgement.

The car skidded to a stop.

"Wait here."

"Very well, sir."

He hurried through the orchard, the sounds of war drawing nearer.

Three helicopters suddenly passed overhead. Gatlings unleashed behind him as he ran under the cover of the tree's leaves, looking back in time to see the car be disintegrated. Soldiers quickly began descending on ropes and move about the area.

….they must have followed me here….foolish mistake on my part…I cannot let it pay…..

Gun shots echoed from the room above. Something broke through to him. A fear; a worry of the worst scenario.

…..Rei!...Shinji!...

He drew his gun and rounded to the apartment. The door had been kicked down.

Inside, the scene was one of carnage. Bullet holes scattered along walls, broken possessions and furniture littered the floor.

Rei stood in front of Shinji, who huddled in the corner of the bed. Between them and the entrance, three soldiers lay. Two slumped with splattered crimson stains on the walls behind them and the last, a knife jutting out from his throat. One body spasmed as passed it. The last soldier's hands clawed at the steel blade, desperately trying to save himself from certainty in some futile way.

Gendo smelt the pungent odour of human feces emanate from the dying being.

…...disgusting…..

The pale blue girl stared at her bloody right hand, petrified.

"Rei."

"...hai…", she replied, facing him.

"We must go."

"...hai…"

She took the distracting task from her reality and began helping the defeated boy.

"T-...Tosa?"

"Can he run?", he asked his loyal creation.

"...no…"

"….please…help me...", Shinji mumbled.

He walked over, handing Rei his gun and lifted Shinji in his arms.

…..his weight…..last time I held…years…...many years..…born of Yui...my child….

Shinji winced and gasped. His son's face was covered in bruises, cuts and dried trails of blood. Bandages wrapped around his head and chest, covering his left eye and cheek.

A faint stirring of conflict pulled as he held him.

…..is one pride?...care?…...duty?….the other I recognise….the unrelinquishable burden…...guilt…...

"Tosa…."

"We must leave. Follow me.", he ordered.

Rei warily tucked one pistol into her ribbon belt and reloaded the other. It calmed her breathing.

"...be careful with him…"

Gendo looked at her. She held his gaze back. Gratitude.

He nodded.

"Let's go."

They ran.

(*)(*)(*)(*)(*)(*)(*)(*)(*)(*)(*)(*)(*)(*)(*)(*)(*)(*)(*)(*)(*)(*)

Misato arrived in Central Dogma to the chaos of warnings and alerts deafening across the expansive room with voices of over fifty NERV operatives shouting and calling. She saw Fuyutsuki and the three lieutenants frantically enacting orders, trying to command the situation.

"What's going on!?", Misato demanded, striding up to Fuyutsuki's side.

"Seele are using the other MAGI's in a digital strike.", he replied, "They intend to take control of our branch and either EVA Unit 01 or 06 to initiate Third Impact."

….Why only Unit One and Six?...What do Seele want?...Are the Angels attacking too?...

She had too many questions to even start asking.

"40 seconds until full control loss of the MAGI system!", Shigeru shouted.

"The German Branch rebounded our virus! It's spreading exponentially!"

"Casper is 86% compromised!"

"20 seconds!"

"Prepare to self-destruct all drives and data. We can't let them control the MAGI, no matter the cost!", Misato issued, letting her natural leader kick in, "On my mark…"

"10 seconds!"

"95% compromised level!"

"Ready….-"

The piercing sirens suddenly ceased. The red tiles infecting the MAGI system blinked in stationary place. Hyuga's hand hovered over the detonate trigger uneasily.

Nobody moved.

A scuffling sound came from the MAGI and Ritsuko emerged. As she stood up, dusting herself down the red tiles stopped blinking and reversed, clearing the screen. The tension dissipated.

"Minimum 43 hours until they can try that again. MAGI is ours."

"I'll inform the Commander.", Fuyutsuki said, reaching for his phone.

Misato joined her blonde comrade as she slipped into her shoes and plucked her final cigarette, tossing the empty box over the edge.

"Where were you?", she demanded quietly but stern.

"Kaji gave me this." She showed her the drive Kaji had promised so much of. "He says it will tell us all we need to know."

Ritsuko glanced around.

"I can't discuss this. I doubt Seele are going to let us off this lightly and I need to prepare every possible defense."

"Riko, this could tell us what that boy Tobi has to with-"

"Misato!", her temper rising, "My priority right now is protecting NERV and the EVA's. I suggest it be yours too."

She pushed past her. Misato held back her frustration, returning the drive to its pocket.

"Major! Reports of military craft and combatants invading Neo-Tokyo! Our Special Forces have already been mobilized.", Shigeru called.

"Where's Kaji?", Ritsuko asked, "Is he not head of Defense and Security?!"

"Kaji has gone to find Ms. Langley.", Fuyutsuki replied, ending his call, "The Commander ordered the recovery of all six pilots to Central Dogma, though he is currently surrounded in the city with Shinji and Rei."

"Where are the remaining pilots?", Misato asked, her impulses taking hold.

"They insisted on going with Kaji."

"WHAT?!"

"Mr. Nagisa insisted on finding Shinji whilst Ms. Mikanami went with Mr. Suzuhara for his sister."

She turned her fury on Ritsuko.

"Riko! You let those kids go into a war-zone!?"

"Misato, I was the one who tried to stop them!"

"Oh, for the love of-"

She pulled open a filing cabinet and grabbed a fully-automatic, shortcut gun.

"Hyuga!"

"Hai!"

She tossed him the weapon and he caught it, fumbling awkwardly.

"Congratulations. You are now my personal bodyguard."

"Wait! Misato-"

"Shigeru! Ibuki! You are promoted to Captain. My congratulations!"

They both voiced their undecided acceptance on the matter.

"Prepare an escort squad. And make sure they can drive fast!"

"If you can, make contact with the Commander.", Fuyutsuki added, "From what he told me, he is trapped in the city."

"Jokai.", she replied, cocking back her pistol, "Hyuga! With me!"

"Umm...h-...Hai!"

"Don't get yourself killed, Misato.", Ritsuko remarked as she left, "This is far from over."

I = I = I = I = I = I = I = I = I = I = I = I = I = I = I

Kaji's red-sports car skidded around the corner, the screech of its braking tyres ripping through the air. As he adjusted the wheel and prepared to tear down the long street, a black cat suddenly ran across his bumper. He swerved sharply but ended up spinning the car out, crashing through the glass of a home store and coming to an abrupt stop.

…..fucking cat…...

"Is everyone ok?", he asked.

Three voices groaned in response.

"Hai, I'm fine.", said the ashen boy, rubbing his neck.

"BAKA! WHY DID YOU CRASH!?", Mari suddenly roared from behind.

The stubbled man flinched his ear away.

"I didn't want to hit the cat. Gomen-ne about this mess..."

"What cat?", Toji asked slowly.

Kaji turned to the three teens. From their doubting looks, it was apparent he had been mistaken.

"Nevermind.", he dismissed, pushing collapsed stalls as he opened his door.

The others followed suit.

"Each of you has a phone and, if you were listening during the journey, you'll have my number too. Call me if you get into trouble! I'll meet you back here in 15 minutes!"

"Why would we meet back here? The car isn't drivable anymore.", Kaworu asked.

As he had spoken, a wisp of smoke had begun to hiss and rise from under the bonnet.

"Good point.", he conceded, "In that case…"

Kaji's worn leather shoes crunched as he walked on the fragments of window pane. He flicked up the boot and lifted out his specialized rifle. Mari and Toji gawked at magnificence of the weapon, Kaworu raising his brows appreciatively.

…...this is irresponsible to say the least….risking their lives….I shouldn't have let them come…...but what choice was there?...

"Find your sister. Then call me or link up with any NERV forces. There are many squads and units around the city."

He reached into a bag and pulled out two small revolvers.

"These each have six rounds. Only use them when absolutely necessary and do not shoot the final bullet."

"Why not?", Toji asked.

Mari gave him a grave look through her cold blue eyes. He understood; death before defeat.

"You shouldn't be too far from your home.", Kaji continued, "But you won't be far from the fighting either."

"I know a few short cuts. We can take the back alleys.", Toji replied.

"Then what are we waiting for!?", she replied, devilishly playful.

She kissed him on the cheek before they ran out, revolvers in hand.

"Take care, friends.", Kaworu spoke.

Kaji rummaged around his bag again sticking various implements of combat into his pockets and belt.

Eventually he took out a handgun and handed it to Kaworu. He shook his head.

"You can expect the others to believe it would make a difference, but I know it won't."

"The army are here specifically to try capture or kill you. Take it.", Kaji insisted, ignoring his other statement.

"Gomen-nasai, but no. If I hold a weapon, it will make me more of a target and since I'll be with Shinji, I can't risk him being hurt or killed."

"And what happens if they find you?"

"Nothing. Trust me."

Kaworu looked at him with a subtle but resilient determination. It was a look the confident man had seen many times before.

…...he knows something…...like the other boy….it's worrying….when the young can out maneuver their elders….

He spun the pistol and slipped it between his hip, sitting the grip on the band of his scraggy trousers.

"We should go."

Kaworu untucked his hands and they walked through the smashed frame. An eerie quiet settled, interrupted by short bursts of distant gunfire and echoing explosions.

Blanketing clouds had tainted the bleak light.

Kaji looked beyond the glazed towers of the collapsing Neo-Tokyo to see storm clouds rumble.

He picked the last cigarette in his packet, put it between dry lips and leaned into the lighter, shielding his small flame from the rising wind.

"Where is he?"

Kaji glanced at the sharp featured boy.

…..his presence has changed…...protective…...formidable…...like a shield…...

"From what I know, Shinji, Rei and the Commander are about 4 blocks from here."

"Which way?"

Kaji gave a quick nod in the direction.

"Arigato. I best be going."

"Kaworu!", he called as the walked down the street, "Make sure they all get back safe."

"As you wish."

With that, he dashed away, arms trailing behind him.

"So much for fond farewells….", he muttered.

He slung the rifle strap across his shoulder, it's cold shape resting against his back. It consoled him in a way. The reliance of a purpose he gave, to the need it would fulfill.

It hit his back rhythmically as he ran, his legs compensating for the weight. Long strides leapt over pavestones, fast breaths filling his head and lungs. Sweat stuck to his skin and clothes as the ball and heel of his feet ached from pounding tarmac. Yet he persisted.

Far past the solar catchers and towers, ignoring fleeing civilians and heading into the gentile suburbs.

"Squads!", he spoke, attaching his earpiece and wrist mic, "Report in!"

"Squad One! We've been surrounded! Requesting reinforcements at coordina-"

Crackle replaced the sergeant's voice.

"Squad Four! Confirming Two and Six have been wiped out. Retreating to Geo-Front!"

"Squad Seven and Nine! Heavy losses. Merged to compensate. Holding Central-West."

The sounds of war had gotten louder as he approached a junction. Loud engines thundered in closer. He ducked behind a small electric car and peered over the side to see seven army trucks drive by. Past the road, a line of trees stood, beckoning him.

The last vehicle passed and he broke into sprint for the cover.

"Jokai! All squads, I want you to form a perimeter around the entrance to NERV. We must-"

A distinct fluttering noise had risen steadily from behind. He looked back in dismay to see an attack and transport helicopters flying straight towards him. Bullets ripped apart the road around him. He dove over the park's metal fence as two missiles exploded on either side.

.….Asuka….I'm sorry…..I am your guardian….I will not fail my promise…..….a promise I made a long time ago…..

He lay spread out in the dirt, patiently unmoving. The earpiece gave distorted fuzz. Smoke engulfed the area, obscuring even the branches above him. The sound of chopping blades began to fade away.

He waited before slowly lifting himself onto his knees. His body ached from the blast, scorch marks covered his clothes and scarred on his arms and neck.

….c'mon…...what kind of man cannot stand on his own feet?!...

Pulling out his broken comms, the searching man gripped a tree, pressing his weight onto it as support. It was only then he realised his other arm was dislocated.

He was running out of time.

With a gritted jaw and clenched face, he grabbed his arm and cracked it back into the joint. Nausea and pain reeled him but he kept his balance against the trunk.

A lightning strike flashed and thunder rumbled overhead. He felt a drop land on his cheek. As the patter of rain began to grow, he pressed on, one step after the other.

He emerged to the river. Looking along the edge, he saw two figures standing further down, side by side. They remained unmoving.

This was his place. Where the oaks met the blossoms, she stood holding hands with another, facing the flowing river. He pushed the blue button at the base of his wrist band, activating the beacon.

"Asuka."

She didn't respond but the boy turned in surprise, letting her go.

"Wh-..Who are-...you?!", he mustered, trying to show bravery.

"Who are you?", Kaji countered.

"I'm her protector. She asked me to be her soulmate so it's my job to make sure she's safe!"

"Hmm, how noble of you. Fortunately, I'm here to protect both of you. So do as I say and we'll all be safe."

The boy looked up at him in disgruntled defiance.

"Kaji…", Asuka spoke, "When you brought me here before, you told me to be like water. Changing; giving; pure. But how can I be any of those things, if I'm not free? Free to do what I want; be who I want. Make simple mistakes without being blamed. Live my life, for only me."

Her words stung sharply with self-loathing.

He stepped past Kensuke and put a hand on her frail shoulder.

"Asuka. I can't make you do anything you don't want to. But no one ever has. This is because you are the strongest girl in the world, with a life other people could never understand."

"That's the problem! No one understands me! Not Shinji, not Misato, not even you!"

She jerked her shoulder away and stormed off down the path.

"Asuka?", Kensuke called, following loyally.

"Wait! Asuka, I need to watch-"

A bush rustled at the corner of his eye. A snapping branch gave it all away. His primal instincts now sensed it through the misty haze. The looming predators.

Kaji grabbed another grenade in his hand and ran at the teens. He hurled it into the cover and tackled them to the ground as a fireball erupted from the serene grove.

Horrific screaming pierced the falling rain. Kaji moved into a crouch, smelling burnt foliage and flesh drifting from the flickering orange glow.

"Shit. That must've been an incendiary."

A spray of bullets flew above them. Asuka and Kensuke cried out and huddled low by a tree.

…...this is too dangerous!…...I have to get them out of here!…..

Another spurt of bullets ricocheted wildly and sent splinters flying in every direction. Kaji unhitched his rifle and fired three shots back.

"You need to run!", he ordered.

"We're not leaving!", Asuka retorted.

"I'm not giving you a choice! Go now!"

Four simultaneous bursts hit nearer.

…...they're shooting closer…..

The fire had begun to spread rapidly.

He spotted two silhouettes move along it's edge.

Two shots resounded in quick succession. Both figures crumpled.

"ASUKA!', he shouted, lowering his rifle, overcome with anger, "WE DON'T HAVE TIME! YOU HAVE TO GO NOW! EVERYONE IS DEPENDING ON-"

A bullet thudded into the trunk, a faint red stain covering it's path. Kaji fell down, clutching his side as blood seeped through his shirt.

Asuka stared in total shock.

"K-...Kaji?!..."

He steadily crawled up and leaned against the bullet riddled tree.

"I'm-...I'm fine…", he replied, lungs heaving.

He put his eyes on her.

….gomen-nasai, Asuka…

"You must go….The others need you!….I'll-...I'll wait here...Reinforcements are coming soon..."

She continued to stare at him blankly. With no other choice, Kaji grabbed her with one arm and hugged her with all his might.

"Nanitozo...please….Asuka….Run!..."

He let go and pushed her away.

"GO!", he shouted one last time as the girl took her boy by the hand and ran.

Kaji grabbed his last three grenades and chucked them randomly, empty his rifle as they arced through the air.

He ducked behind the tree again to see the two fleeing teens disappeared from sight.

…...so….what kind of man cannot stand on his own feet?...

The grenades detonated and he charged out, pistol in hand and clasping his wound.

Bullets flew around him. He dived past the fire and surprised two soldiers, blasting a hole through the back of first's head. The second managed to get a shot in Kaji's leg just as her neck and chest were punctured.

The body rolled forwards and flopped on the ground.

Kaji unsteadily lifted himself against another tree and reloaded, the searing agony etching past the initial shock.

….c'mon…...what kind of man cannot stand on his own feet!?...

More figures began moving past. He emptied a clip, befalling and wounding another pair.

His hands shook uncontrollably as he reloaded, body succumbing to fatigue. He locked back the slide and slumped down, head spinning from blood loss.

…what kind of man?...a lonely man…..and….a dying man too…..a dying man cannot stand…..

A branch rustled and he swung the pistol around, firing a single shot. A single thump followed.

Memories ebbed into his fading vision.

…these…..images…..places…...people…..thoughts…...…..they are mine…...only…...no one…..shall ever know…see….feel…...

The composed man smiled. He had found peace in the chaos.

Figures surrounded and focused their sights. He did not notice. He barely had the strength to lift his gun anymore.

…...it's been…..quite a journey…my memories…..my regrets….my loves…..you are in them all….arigato…...Mis-

...

The growling engines roared out from the long tunnel. A pre-impact, turbo boosted blue car led the way, tailed by four armoured vans. At its wheel, a dangerous woman drove, her passenger was struggling to cope with the high speed and maintain focus on his task. The laptop vibrated irately on the dashboard.

"How far are we from the Commander's beacon?"

"At this speed Major, we'll be making contact within 10 minutes."

"Not soon enough."

"Whu-...WHAT!?"

"Get me comms with Central Dogma."

Hyuga typed frantically.

"Riko!", Misato yelled to be heard above the motor, "What's the situation?"

"See for yourself..."

As she spoke, they rounded a corner and saw Neo-Tokyo. The marvelous city was a warzone. Smoke rose from every part, buildings burned and explosions flashed like christmas lights with helicopters hovering like flies over a carcass.

"The UN and JSDF Navy have begun shelling the city.", Fuyutsuki spoke, "This is still only their preliminary phase."

"Dear god…", Hyuga slipped.

"Get me contact with our head squad in that living hell.", she said, stunned.

The face of a scraggy man appeared on a grainy screen.

"First Lead Squad reporting in, Major."

"What is going on in there, Sergeant?!"

"Just Private, ma'am. Private Hideaki. Sergeant Sagisu is MIA, however we received orders minutes ago from Lieutenant Kaji to form a perimeter around NERV's main entrance."

"Where is Kaji now?!", Misato blurted out with more concern than intended.

"Gomen-nasai, I am currently unaware, though my understanding is that he is somewhere within our established perimeter."

"Major!", Hyuga interrupted, "Kaji's distress beacon has just signalled up! It's close to the western side of the perimeter."

…..shit…..who do I go to first?…..

"Major Katsuragi", Fuyutsuki added, "I request that you go directly for the Commander. I don't think I need to explain my reasoning."

…...he's right!…..and I know it's what I should do...

"Wait Fuyutsuki, you said two of the children. Yet three are already currently with Kaji and was he not going to find Asuka too?", she asked.

"Yes, I believe so."

"Then I'm afraid the value of four pilots over two must be considered. Mobilize all NERV forces effective immediately!"

….who am I kidding…..this is such a petty excuse!…...

Fuyutsuki sighed.

"Very well, Major"

"Private Hideaki. Begin a full offensive push towards the central blocks. If needs be, sacrifice the perimeter for reinforcements."

"Jokai!"

…...this is insane….ordering men to die needlessly…...why?...my own selfish desire…

She pressed her foot down further, revving the engine and turning her passenger's face sour. Quaint houses and streets became a blur.

The brewing storm above suddenly broke.

"How close are we?!", she asked again, rain splashing onto the windscreen.

"It's coming from the riverbank area."

Misato squinted at a pair of approaching figures.

…..wait...that almost looks like…

The blue car skidded as she slammed in the handbrake, tyres screeching on the wet surface. The four trucks did likewise, barely avoiding a pile-up collision. Misato got out of the car and ran up the road.

"Asuka!"

"Misato!"

They crashed into a relieved embrace.

"Are you ok?!"

"I'm fine!", she cried, tears streaming down her face.

"What's wrong, Asuka? What happened?!"

"Kaji. He-...he came to find us….

"Where is he?!", Misato yelled at her. It wasn't intentional, but desperation had taken hold.

"He's back that way!", Kensuke spoke up, pointing towards a blazing fire, "You've got to help him! He was badly injured-"

"Hyuga! Get these two back to Central Dogma!"

Without hesitation, she ran towards the blaze.

…...Kaji…..kudasai!…..we still need you…...don't you dare leave us!….

Leaves and ash blew in the wind. She ran in closer, spotting the lurking figures in the grove.

"Bastards!", she yelled, drawing her pistol and snapping the trigger.

Two soldiers were instantly incapacitated. Enemy bullets hailed around her as she dove down and, in perfect coordination, the truck mounted guns lit up.

Gatlings and heavy caliber rounds shredded the area, decimating everything. The screams and cries of dying soldiers ceased within twenty seconds; the guns in thirty.

Rain continued to fall. It's cool rush surreally contrasting with the sweltering heat of the spitting flames.

Misato lifted her head, regrettably realizing she'd been lying beside a dead body.

The soldier's face held shock; horror. Disbelief it would end this way. No lover's arms around him, no mother's voice to whisper to him. Nothing but a piece of cold metal, imbedded in his chest.

…...this is wrong…...you are the wrong enemy….but I can't change that now…..

She stood up to the scene of carnage. Just ahead of her lay a small clearing, with a lone apple tree on it's edge. The fearless woman felt it's lure and walked to it.

The moment she stepped in, she knew. Before she noticed his corpse lying against the trunk, she knew. Before she saw his head hanging still, arms fallen either side and hole through heart, she knew. Before she lifted his face to see a blissfully lost smile and forgotten blue eyes, she knew.

…..your scent…...I've never forgotten it…..Kaji…...I promise…...I never will…..…

The spitting flames crawled closer. Straightening herself, she let go of the man and walked away.

Silent tears fell deepest through her grief.

{^}{^}{^}{^}{^}{^}{^}{^}{^}{^}{^}{^}{^}{^}{^}{^}{^}{^}{^}{^}

The gearbox clunked as Hyuga jammed the sleek blue car into fifth.

"Are you two ok back there?", he asked, glancing in the mirror.

Asuka remained mute.

…..Kaji….I don't understand…...why?...why didn't you come with us?!...

At her side, Kensuke sat with his face buried in his legs, sniffling.

It did not phase her; like the blur going past her window, the tapping of rain on the car, or the whirl of wheels along the road.

"Asuka?"

She looked at him this time, though he didn't dare take his eyes off the road.

"We'll be safe soon. Just hang in there."

….safe?...Kaji….no!...what have I done?!...he's not safe he's wounded he needs help! he's dying he's-...dead?…..NO!...he's not!...he can't….be….

As her mind began to slip towards a dark abyss, she noticed a lone ray of light break past the thick clouds and illuminated a withering tree ahead. Time slowed.

The tree suddenly sprouted into life, blooming in wondrous autumn colours. Fruits she never imagined tasting hung ripe and pluckable from curved branches. Birds chirped harmoniously in their haven and there, under the shade, he stood. Facing away to the distance, pony-tail tied back and hands in pockets.

As the car drove by, Asuka wanted to reach out of the window and call to him, just let him know she was coming, that she would save him. They passed the mysterious man and he turned his head to smile at her, nothing more. She watched the light fade, taking her serenity and sanity with it. But as the man's shadow disappeared, his smile did not.

Until the moment when he had almost disappeared, and the car had rushed by with rain dripping through, he winked at her and was gone.

…..NO!...YOU DON'T GET TO DIE!...IT'S NOT FAIR!...

Hot, angry tears overcame her.

…..I'll-...I c-...can save you….no one else!...just me!...ME!...

/ \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \ / \

He broke into a coughing fit. Wet ash and dust had smothered the street in a mud-like substance, rain further obscuring his vision. He tried to run on but found himself tripping over his own feet, lungs violently convulsing as he fell onto his knees.

….shit….if don't find them soon…...I'll never be able to get out of here….

Kaworu covered his mouth and nose with one hand and regained control. His scarlet eyes glowed with conviction. Flashes of fire and explosions pulsed irregularly through the dark haze. He could hear sounds of war and voices echo through the roaring storm. Mostly far away but sometimes eerily close.

…...this atmosphere….it's haunting…...frightening...is this fear?...what a Lilin feels...

The patter of running feet grew towards him. He squinted to see two figures emerge from the smoke, the bigger one carrying something in his arms and the smaller one following behind. He recognized them, despite Gendo wearing a face mask and Rei, a soldier's gas helmet, their presences were unmistakable.

It took a moment longer to see the Commander held Shinji's blood stained body. A wave of instinctual worry hit him but as they approached, he saw the look in Gendo's eyes. They told him it was bad, but that he would be ok.

"Follow us."

His voice was muffled through the mask. Kaworu let Gendo run past and joined Rei. She handed him a gas mask. The leather was sticky and tight but the filtered air relieved his aching throat and lungs.

"Do you have a means of contact?", the Commander asked him.

"Hai."

"Then call someone to get us out of here. Now!"

As Kaworu dialled into his phone, a whistling sound grew in the sky above, steadily getting louder.

"Find cover! Quickly!", Gendo shouted.

"Hey! Hey! Over here!"

They turned to see a scraggy man in a NERV uniform, waving at them from behind a stone palisade. They ran across and were instantly dragged over and into cover just as the bomb fell.

A blinding light came first, before a deafening boom engulfed them. They felt the shockwave shoot past them and a wall of heat over the air. The building shook violently from the impact. They waited for the calm to settle before moving again.

"Huh", one of the soldiers grunted, "Those idiots missed again."

Kaworu peered over to see the opposite side of the street in burning ruins.

"They must have troops nearby if they're still dropping precision point bombs.", another soldier commented.

"Fucking don't give up do they."

"Enough!"

The open mall fell silent. The scraggy man who had called them stood up.

"In case you haven't noticed, the Commander and three of the EVA pilots are now currently under our protection."

A brief murmuring spread among the soldiers.

"Quiet!", he stated again, "Our priority is to protect them until an evacuation is possible. Is that understood?!"

"HAI!", the soldiers responded. The fatigued and depleted soldiers regained heart and began preparing their weapons and defenses.

"Gomen-nasai, Commander", he said, turning to the four civilians, "We had hoped to find you sooner, but we've been encountering heavy resistance-"

"Have you a medical officer?"

"Hai. I'll fetch her right away! Also, you don't need masks in here. The air conditioners are somehow still working."

The orange hue of the air rested around the soldier as Kaworu watched him walk away. Gendo lay Shinji down, removing his mask. Kaworu rushed over on seeing bruises and gashes that covered the honest face of his lover.

"Shinji, are you awake?! Can you hear me?"

His eyes gently parted, body shivering from the damp clothes.

"K-...Kaworu?"

"It's me Shinji, I'm here."

He got onto his knees and lifted Shinji into his arms, holding his frail body close.

"Here. He must drink."

Gendo offered a bottle of water to Kaworu who took it and, helping Shinji sit up, gave him a long drink. Most of it spilled as the boy winced with every movement. He struggled to sit for much longer than a few seconds.

"It's ok Shinji.", Kaworu spoke gently, easing him down, "I'm here. I'm protecting you now."

"Kaworu….?"

Kaworu realized he was still wearing the mask and hurriedly removed it. He saw Shinji's eyes brighten up and felt his hand reach for his. He took it and could sense him relax to the familiar touch.

"What happened?", he asked, turning to the controlling man.

"I am unaware. He was already like this when I-"

"...he was attacked….by a strange man…", Rei spoke, removing her mask, "...he told us….we were incompetent….that it was our fault….that his family are dead…"

Their eyes met in red regard. Kaworu understood.

….she seems…...different…..no…...new…...she remembers has listened to the words….

"Gendo", she asked, "I want to ask you a question."

The burdened man hummed his approval, staring at the roof.

"Who am I to you?"

Seconds passed.

Then a minute.

Then a number of minutes.

Eventually he tilted his head and looked at her.

"My means."

They continued to stare at one another for a long minute.

"If so….then who is Shinji to you?"

Kaworu could sense the conflict within Rei. Something perplexingly true.

She waited for an answer but none came. Eventually, the man turned his head and let it rest on the wall behind him.

The scraggy private returned with a woman.

"Commander, Field Doctor Megumi."

"Please attend to my son.", he dismissed.

She knelt opposite Kaworu, briefly frowning at their held hands. The Commander stood up and dusted himself down.

"How long until evacuation?"

"I just contacted Major Katsuragi. She will be here shortly. Oh, of course…", he shook himself in reminder, "I haven't introduced myself. Private Hideaki, acting squad leader."

He made a salute and swallowed nervously.

"I must also inform you that Lieutenant Kaji has been killed. Shazai truly, on your loss, Commander."

"Arigato, Private. You've been of most assistance."

He gave another small bow.

A buzz of commotion rose from the far side of the mall. Gunshots rang louder as soldiers began firing over the barrier. Kaworu thought he faintly heard someone laughing manically and looked to see soldiers hoisting three bodies in.

The last person acted strangely and wrestled the soldiers with her rifle. She then broke free and jumped onto the barricade, firing out wildly before running out of bullets and was tackled down to the ground by the other, taller one.

"Mari, what the hell is wrong with you?! You could've got my sister killed!"

"For killing the people who've been trying to kill us for the last hour?! Oh, my apologies!"

"What I meant was you can't keep putting yourself in danger!"

"Well, from what I can tell mister, I've done most of the work keeping you and your sister out a danger. Do I need to count how many times I saved your big fat ass?!"

"Hey! It's not that big. Why do you keep saying that?!"

"Maybe cos that's the way I like 'em!"

"You're sick, Mari."

"I know, but that's why you love me isn't it, bull-boy?"

They availed of their positions on the ground to kiss and snog passionately, despite the enemy gunfire ricocheting inches away.

"Ew! You guys are disgusting", the small girl said, recoiling away.

"Sumimasen, Sakura. We're done now.", Toji replied, laughing.

"Oh, look! The Commander and the rest are here too."

She smiled dangerously at them.

"Commander...", Hideaki asked, cautiously, "May I ask who they are?"

"The Fourth and Fifth children. The younger girl would be a sibling of the Fifth."

"It's quite lucky they found us here then."

"Not luck", Mari gleefully commented, joining them, "I took a transmission relayer. We've been it using to misguide coordinate strikes, delay armour divisions and find you! Though, we weren't expecting to meet you guys here too.", she said, indicating towards the pilots.

"Wait, you said armour division?", the private asked.

"Yeah. What about it?"

Kaworu watched the man's face fall.

"Commander, we need to leave now! Airstrikes and artillery can be avoided, choppers can be hidden from, trucks and infantry we can handle, but there is no-

"GET DOWN!", a voice cried out from the far side.

The wall and defenses vaporized in an large explosion.

The dust dissipated slowly. Bits of body and guts were strewn about, soldiers screaming in agony or rushing to help their comrades. Kaworu looked through the gap to see a 40 ton metal behemoth. It's turret straightened directly at them.

…...no….Shinji…..I have to move him!...I'VE GOT TO GET-...

His thoughts wired in panic. Kaworu could only watch in shock as a giant foot came from the sky and crushed the tank like an insect, before leaping away. Everyone had frozen in disbelief as the ground continued to tremor around them.

Tyres screeched to a halt outside, doors opening and sound of feet getting off.

…...they're trying to surprise us…...to take Shinji away from me…...I cannot allow that!…..

He looked at Rei. She nodded. Kaworu snatched the pistol from the medics side and they jumped onto the palisade, weapons drawn.

The dark violet hair woman stood, staring at them in cold regard.

"Tell everyone to get into the trucks."

"Evacuation's here!", Hideaki called out, "Let's go!"

They tore down the barrier and loaded into the trucks. Kaworu carefully carried Shinji in and sat with him cradled through his arms.

"Kaworu…."

"I'm here Shinji, I'm not going to leave you again. I promise."

"Arigato…."

Kaworu looked out the truck doors to see a chinook spin through the air and crash into a tower above, producing a massive fireball. The silhouette Unit 02 came into view, lit up by the explosions deflecting from its AT Field. It roared in savage rage.

Asuka swatted the circling helicopters with ease, picking up tanks and throwing them. Jets swooped by and she caught one in her jaw, crushing it.

"We need to get out of here, now!", Misato ordered.

Missiles began striking at the EVA but they caused more collateral than actual damage. Kaworu held Shinji firm as they drove from the chaos.

Mari gawked out the back window, cheering Asuka on. Toji sat with his sister, snuffling into his chest for safety. Rei held herself in perfect posture but her eyes told him different. The Commander sat in a retired manner. His body slouched back, hands wrapped around himself. He seemed comfortable in his solitude, humming to himself softly. Kaworu perked up, recognizing the melody.

…'Joy of Man's Desiring'….by J.S. Bach…..

He glanced at the man again. His eyes were covered by the glazed glasses but on his cheek, the composed teen saw it.

…..a single tear…..of love...of pain...but for who?...

/ . / . / . / . / . / . / . / . / . / . / . / . / . / . / . / . / . / . / . / . / . / . /

I'm very bad for sticking to my original goals...*sigh*, oh well! I did thoroughly enjoy writing this one more than any of the others though! I suppose this is where things properly start getting VERY different. I'll be taking a couple months break after the next chapter, simply because I need to readjust to my film college priorities. So be engrossed, and au revoir!

- BeastChild