The Girl in White Bandages: The True Confessions of Ayanami Rei

Ch.18 Gathering Troubles

By Sesshy's Girl 00

I looked around; attempting to comprehend what was going on. Pilot Sohryu had left everything in Unit Two ready for me. 'Did she plan this?' I quickly glanced over the rest of Unit Two's numbers to see if I could spot the problem. To my disappointment, I saw nothing to indicate that anything was wrong. There was only one remaining option, climb in Unit Two myself. I sighed with anxiety, frustration and weariness.

I looked around and spotted Ikari-kun buying a soft drink from a vending machine. Aida-san stood beside him and the pair appeared to be deep in conversation. Not far away, Pilot Sohryu was talking with Ryohji-san. I couldn't hear what was being said but she looked particularly animated. A rare all consuming grin graced her face. It appeared there was time before work would resume.

I sat against Unit Two's side and lay my head against her cool exterior. A few minutes to rest here sounded simply blissful to my aching joints. I closed my eyes and allowed my mind to wander. Almost instantly, a shrill cry rose around me. I cringed from the sharpness of it but I refused to turn away. I knew where the pain came from but not how to end its painful flow. Maybe my work here today would help.

Yet, I feared pilot Soryu would not be easily healed.

Kyoko Zeppelin Soryu stared down at me with confusion and malice in her four green eyes. My mere presence was a problem because I was not her daughter. She only accepted Pilot Sohryu and she knew I was about to challenge that. I hoped she would refrain from striking out at me when I wished her no harm.

In what seemed like no time at all, Dr. Akagi's voice could be heard coming over the intercom. "Children, report to your assigned Evangelion. Testing will begin momentarily."

Ignoring the protest of my knees, I slowly rose to my feet and turned to face the entranceway of Unit Two's Entry plug. In the distance, I recognized the creaking of the metal stairs as Ikari-kun and Aida-san climbed towards their units as well. I heaved the door fully open with both hands and stepped inside the dark capsule. The noxious LCL fumes hung densely in the air, wafting up from the think layer that covered the smooth floor. I covered my nose, as I made my way towards the pilot's seat, hoping not to become ill. Thankfully, I arrived easily and I took my place in the Throne of Souls. I could feel Soryu-san watching my movements intently and I shivered involuntarily. She was trying to stare straight through me, pierce me to the core.

I wondered how she would react to actual contact with me. I knew I was not Pilot Soryu and there was no connection between Soryu-san and I. The Evangelion system was built around the mother-child relationship, which I completely lacked. However, I was a half-angel, who already tamed one beast. There was a chance that I could survive contact with the red one unscathed.

The familiar grind of metal on metal and the hum of the motor accompanied the insertion of the entry plug into the red Evangelion's back. Distressed by this, Soryu-san began to demand Pilot Soryu's presence. I attempted to soothe her with assurances that her daughter would return soon but she refused to listen. I know what you are. You're one of them…She hissed angrily.

I wondered what she thought I was but had no way of knowing. She completely clamped down and declined to say another word. My best guess was that she could sense what I was and disliked me because of it. It wouldn't be the first time but the hurt stung just the same. The Commander created me this way because it was what he wanted, not me. I'd been powerless to stop him. This was not my fault…was not even my decision…

With a final screech, the entry plug locked into place. The vents opened and LCL rushed in from all sides. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath to calm my nerves. The most terrifying part was inhaling of the copious amounts of LCL required to achieve equilibrium and the sensation of near drowning it caused. All of us hated and absolutely dreaded it.

After so many years, I was still very much at the mercy of its power.

I closed my eyes and forced myself to breathe the noxious substance into my lungs. Soryu-san's disgruntled protests permeated everything around and bored right into my soul. I could feel my being drifting away, swallowed up by the LCL. Soryu-san's anger began to consume me until I was enraged too. I took several deep breaths to steady myself but they did no good. Hollow screams from both mother and daughter filled the air. Before I knew it I was screaming with them.

"I know what you are. Yui's unwanted brat…Nephilim monster…'

"I am not a monster!" I hissed back.

My entire body froze as a bolt of unimaginable agony consumed my being. A scream rose in my throat but my jaws were clenched too tightly to release it. Abruptly, everything went black and I was falling helplessly into a void of nothingness.

Shinji's eyes grew wide with horror, as he watched Unit Two struggle against her bonds. The reinforced concrete was already beginning to crack and it was only a matter of time until the red beast was free. "Kensuke, we need to restrain Unit Two before she hurts someone."

"Right."

Shinji was not deaf to the note of worry in his speckled friend's voice but he knew there was no time left. A small cloud of steam appeared as Unit Two's power cable detached from the red unit's back. However, the entry plug showed no sign of moving. Fear for the First Child trapped inside gripped Shinji as he warily approached. 'Why did she stay in there? Couldn't she hear all the warnings Dr. Akagi and Misato were yelling?'

Shinji reached out to touch Unit Two, when she suddenly leaned foreword and ejected the entry plug from her back. Shinji leapt into the air to catch it but the tube flew right over the tips of his fingers.

"Kensuke, grab her!"

Shinji tackled the red unit, while Kensuke expertly caught the First Child in Unit Zero's hands. Shinji prepared to battle with Unit Two but discovered that she was silent and no longer a danger. Sighing with relief, he gently lifted the red bio-mecha off him and put her back in place. Meanwhile Kensuke placed the entry plug on the deck and NERV personnel instantly swarmed around it. Before they could reach it, the door burst open and the First Child emerged.

Rei looked both ways and saw Asuka peak around the corner. Instantly, her face crumpled and her eyes filled with tears. Shaking uncontrollably, she approached the other young woman with outstretched arms. "Asuka…my baby…my darling…I love you. I…always have and I always will. Believe me, please... "

Asuka screamed in horror and took several large steps back. Tears gathered at the corner of her eyes but she fought them back. "Who are you? Keep away from me!"

"Don't you recognize your own mother?" Rei demanded in response.

"Lying bitch!"

Asuka raised her hand to strike, her mouth opened in a furious roar. Before the Second Child could bring her wrath down upon the blue haired girl, Kensuke and Shinji placed themselves between the two young women. Shinji put his hands on Rei's shoulders and shook her body in an effort to return Rei to her senses.

"Ayanami, please, come back."

Rei blinked slowly and her eyes regained their focus. She took in the scene around her and Shinji's distressed face. "I…I'm sorry Ikari-kun." She whispered weakly.

With her apology made, Rei swayed on her feet and collapsed into the Third Child's arms.

The enraged screams of Pilot Soryu and Soryu-san possessed my mind. I felt overwhelmed by their indomitable power. My own voice followed theirs in unrestrained agony. Just when I thought that being overcome by the turmoil was inevitable, a soft voice called out from the darkness. I couldn't make out the words but I recognized the sound, Ikari-kun's. He was calling for me; he wanted me back in the world. I reached towards it and pulled myself from the oppressive blackness.

Gradually, I could feel my body and senses returning to me. Every inch of my being ached but I relished the discomfort because I knew it meant that I lived. I could feel something warm and wet pressing against my right hand. I attempted to move to investigate but found that it lacked the strength.

"Ayanami…"

My eyes searched for the source of the sound calling my name. After a moment, my eyes fell upon Ikari-kun's face hovering near the edge of my bed. Aida-san stood behind him, looking equal parts concerned and relieved. I tried to smile reassuringly but my body simply wouldn't respond correctly and my expression came out more like a grimace. Ikari-kun smiled as tears tricked down his face. "Couldn't you hear the warnings? Misato and Dr. Akagi kept screaming for you to get out of there." He blurted out angrily.

Warnings? Major Katsuragi and Dr. Akagi were telling me to leave Unit Two? I tried to remember any of these things but nothing came to mind. Unit Two, Soryu-san, must have somehow prevented me from hearing them. Still, I should have known better, I should have been able to sense her intent to use me that way much faster. I was a fool and naive not to pay more attention.

"I'm sorry, Ikari-kun. I didn't hear them."

Ikari-kun gently squeezed my hand and smiled kindly. I closed my eyes and savored the feeling of his warm skin against mine. Aida-san chuckled and shook his head in amusement. Ikari-kun blushed slightly but ignored Aida-san's obvious pleasure of our intimate exchange.

Ikari-kun leaned over and explained to me, "Ayanami, the water heater in NERV is broken so we were going to all go my place to shower and eat dinner. Do…would you…want to come?" The humble sincerity in his voice was quite moving.

I felt a sense of deep relief and joy at Ikari-kun words because I was now freed from the evening tests Dr. Akagi scheduled for me. With the water heater broken, she wouldn't be able to keep the LCL at body temperature for me since the two systems were connected. Maybe luck was on my side for now. "Hai, arigato Ikari-kun."

"Fantastic."

"It will be like our own mini private party!" Aida-san cheered.

I looked between the pair, attempting to understand what Aida-san meant. Ikari-kun quickly registered my confusion and rushed to explain. "Horaki-san and Toji will be joining us for dinner as well."

"Suzuhara-san is being released?"

Aida-san shook his head. "Not yet, he's still not recovered enough; he just has been allowed to join us for a couple hours. The doctors feel it would be a good chance for him to practice with his prosthetics and allow Yukari to sleep. Apparently, the two are keeping each other up and Horaki-san isn't always helpful…"

Both of them hung their heads in shame and frustration. Based on what I knew, I could imagine the trouble the Class Rep., Suzuhara-san and his sister were causing for the nurses. Maybe tonight would be a needed break from all the stress for them. After a minute, Aida-san continued speaking. "Toji's supposed to have three nurses with him just in case; so we can't party too hard or we'll get in trouble." He bemoaned.

Ikari-kun sighed and rolled his eyes in mock disbelief, as he sat back up in his chair. Aida-san glared back at his friend with a look that implied Shinji should watch what he said. Then he left, saying he was going to visit Toji since Shinji was only going to insult him. I allowed myself to smile at the ridiculousness of their antics. I understood that all of it was feigned but the effort they put into their acting made no sense.

Boys, how do they think? I sighed to myself warmly; boys will be boys, an undeniable truth.

As Aida-san disappeared down the corridor, Ikari-kun chuckled softly. "Don't worry Ayanami. Kensuke doesn't mean any of it. He's just in a really good mood today. I doubt we'll do anything more exciting than playing some games and watching a movie."

I smiled, telling Ikari-kun that I believed his words. He nodded back and offered me my clothes from this morning. Quickly, he explained that the four of us would have a clean change when we arrived and Section Two would drive us there once I was ready. Confused, I had to ask why Major Katsuragi wasn't taking us there.

"Well, there are two reasons really. We can't all fit in her car to begin with and she still has some paperwork to deal with here. So she's coming home later." Ikari-kun explained.

I didn't dare let my thoughts go too far in that direction. While the Major herself might not be there, plenty of adult supervision would be. I didn't dare forget the nurses for Suzuhara or Section Two, who'd be watching on the security cameras placed around the Katsuragi residence. Still, it was a night spent with Ikari-kun and that was enough for me.

Misato watched as the children made their way to the waiting Section Two vans. She felt slightly apprehensive about letting them spend the night alone like this but she trusted that everything would work out for the best. After all, it wasn't like they wouldn't be unsupervised. And deep down she trusted their judgment; these are not your 'run of the mill children'.

With a heavy sigh, Misato returned to her desk to finish the paperwork waiting for her. She had business to discuss with Kaji this evening and she wanted plenty of time to track him down. This was a matter of their security, life and death. Misato prayed he told her what she wanted to hear but her gut said it would be bad news indeed. However, if she spent all night here, she'd never get the chance to speak with Kaji herself.

Misato and Kaji's interlude

By: 94saturn

"So my dear, what brings you to my humble domicile?" Kaji asked, in his usual flip tone.

Ryoji's small apartment was as disheveled, as his appearance. With a lecher's gleam in his eyes, he handed her a tumbler of Jack and Coke.

Misato took a tentative sip. At least he's not trying to get me drunk.

The cocktail was mixed perfectly, with the right ratio of alcohol to make it a drinkable beverage. This man was far too intelligent, if not mature, to play childish games with her.

As the young man sat next to her on the futon, she lit a cigarette, nervously.

"So, what's going on with instrumentality?" She asked, as smoothly, as she could. The whole subject filled her with anxiety.

With his jet black hair tied back in a ponytail, Kaji smiled. "If I knew the answer to that, I would tell you." It was at that moment that he made his final decision to risk including her in the loop. "Is that the only reason you came to see me?"

Kaji slipped his free arm around her waist and gave her a gentle squeeze. "I didn't know that you started smoking again."

"I only do it around you…. and keep your mouth shut about it." Her pout approached childish.

Kaji nuzzled her cheek, and then kissed her just below the ear. "Was I right? Were your lips telling me the truth?"

Misato felt a little flustered. "Don't think you're going to touch me until you shave…. you scruffy…"

It was all Misato could do to drop the cigarette in the ashtray, when he planted his lips on hers to give her a deep kiss. There is a time when a man knows, the answer is 'yes' and it is up to him to be bold and seize the opportunity. Kaji was nothing, if not bold, when it comes to women.

They kissed passionately for a few minutes before he got up and bowed, with his right arm across his waist. "Your wish is my command."

Kaji loped to the bathroom, leaving Misato to contemplate what was about to happen.

Why am I doing this? I should know better. She thought, frustrated with her own inability to control her actions.

She noticed the spent cigarette and crushed out the remnant. Then, with a heavy sigh, she got up and took their glasses to the kitchen. After dumping the backwash in the sink, she prepared two fresh, 'stiff' drinks.

Misato returned and set the glasses on the floor. Who am I kidding? She thought, as she began to undress; in the background was the muted buzzing sound of an electric razor.

She removed her red jacket and draped it over the chair by the computer desk. Then she began to unbutton her blouse, it fell to the floor. She reached around and unfastened her bra, releasing her gorgeous breasts from their captivity. Misato felt the cool breeze from the air-conditioning on her back, as she pulled off her olive green shorts and stepped out of her white cotton panties.

Nude, she sat down on the futon and took a heavy gulp of her cocktail. Misato suddenly became acutely aware that the only thing she was wearing was the digital watch on her left wrist and the silver cross around her neck that her father had given her many years ago.

She clamped her knees together and brought them to her chest to conceal her nudity. 'What am I thinking? He's seen every square centimeter of me. We slept together for over a year.'

Just, as she relaxed, Kaji emerged from the bathroom, clean-shaven. He was rubbing his face, because even an electric razor will cause irritation, if used infrequently.

"My, my, Katsuragi, you are just as beautiful as I remember!"

If she were a bit younger, Misato would have blushed, as it was, she simply smiled weakly at the compliment.

Wasting no time, Kaji started to undress. His tie had been discarded, along with his socks, the moment that he stepped through the door this evening. But it took him a moment to peel off his shirt and cast it aside. Then he removed his dark dress pants and shorts; exposing himself to her.

Misato felt a pang of nostalgia, as she viewed her nude lover. Typical of a Japanese man, his manhood was not overly large. When inflated however, it was adequate for the task. At thirty-one, he was still in his prime. The chiseled features of his lithe, muscular body, would woo most any female and probably a few males, as well.

Kaji sat down beside her and picked up his drink. "I'm afraid, that I have no news about the Marduke Institute either. We know that most of Shinji's classmates are candidates. But all of the companies that I have investigated are fronts."

"You mean…" Misato asked, astonished.

"Yes…NERV is pulling the strings." He replied, and then took a sip of his drink. "This implies that Commander Ikari is at the root of it."

Misato took a sip; then played her forefinger on the rim of her glass, deep in thought. "It would be just like him, that bastard. He's the type we women hate the most."

"Indeed." Kaji agreed, as he retrieved a small object from its hiding place. Playfully, he slipped his hand between her legs and began to insert said object into her.

"Kaji Ryoji! What the HELL do you think you're doing?" Misato exclaimed.

Instantly startled by the intrusion, she brushed his hand aside and removed the foreign object. Misato dropped the small red and white capsule, it rolled to a stop next to her drink.

Before she had a chance to scold him, he began to kiss her rather passionately. He delved deep into her mouth, seeking out her tongue. Kaji's hands caressed her back tenderly, taking in the smooth, warm, softness of her skin. Misato was truly a beautiful woman.

Misato lost track of her annoyance in favor of the comfort of his familiar embrace and allowed him to begin massaging her breasts. He squeezed and tweaked with a knowing touch. Ryoji's finger traced the jagged scar that ran between her mammaries with reverence. To him, it was not a flaw, rather, a badge of honor. She was the only survivor of the Katsuragi expedition to Antarctica, so many years ago. She witnessed hell first hand.

He murmured softly to her. "You carry Adam's mark, yet, it only makes you more beautiful."

Then he began to suckle her left breast. She couldn't resist, as she felt him begin to take her.

"Kaji….mummmm." Her response was a whimper.

She closed her eyes and gave herself to him, just like she always had. This was the man that gently deflowered her when they were collage students.

Kaji continued to work her now erect nipple, licking and sucking her spongy orb. All the while, he let his right hand glide slowly across her supple skin. He could feel her body temperature beginning to rise, as his hand continued toward her nether region.

Misato's natural hair color was purple. The evidence of that fact was in the shade of her soft, triangular patch of fur, guarding the entrance to heaven. Kaji was stroking it shamelessly, causing quivers, rippling through her body. Then, his attention turned to her neglected right breast.

"Ohhhh."

The young man kissed his way up her neck, finding her lips, while his finger delved deeper into her tender, special place. His manipulations were pushing her to the razors edge.

"I want it NOW!" She exclaimed, as she squirmed uncontrollably.

Honoring his lover's request, he lifted her knees and with a swift stroke, penetrated the young woman. Plowing forth with gentle force; deep within her. Virginity long gone, all she felt was pleasure. They thrust into one another with excitement. Soft moans of passion permeated the modest apartment. This was true sex, no meekness, just good old fashion, 'bump-n-grind'. They were going at it like rabbits in heat.

They continued for some time before Misato clamped her eyes closed, gritted her teeth and shuddered from head to toe. Moments later Kaji did something very similar. Then he laid down with her, taking her into his arms. The man kissed Misato passionately again and again.

Kaji wiped the beads of sweat from her forehead. "Was it good for you?" He asked, with a chuckle. He was referring to an ancient cliché.

Misato nodded and silently wrapped her arms around him, kissing her lover. Then she got up.

"I have to go to the bathroom."

The nude young man watched her beautiful, bare backside recede, as she padded away to take care of business. Then, he picked up his drink and lamented that the ice had melted, weakening it. He sighed and finished it, then lit one of Misato's cigarettes.

Misato returned shortly; no longer self-conscious with her state of undress. She went to her jacket and fished out her cell phone. Casually, she scanned through the list of numbers and selected her apartment.

"Hi…Asuka? Mumm, something came 'up' and I won't be home tonight. You guys just order out tonight. Ok? Yeah, I'll see you guys after school tomorrow and don't stay up too late. Bye."

Misato returned the phone to its pocket and turned to Kaji. "Ready?"

Kaji casually put out his smoke. "And willing…my dear."

Pilot Sohryu growled in anger and slammed down the phone. She stomped into the living room and flopped down onto the sofa. "This is just wonderful; Misato's abandoned us and Wondergirl's throwing up in the bathroom. I'm in for the time of my life!" She grumbled loudly.

I poked my head out from the bathroom door to glare at the Second Child. Both Ikari-kun and Aida-san looked up at me with confusion and interest. "Pilot Sohryu, I am not vomiting. I was attempting to remove soap from my mouth." I responded.

Pilot Sohryu glared at me indignantly, her hands on her hips. "Wondergirl, get back in that bathroom this instant. You should not let the guys see you so!" She snapped angrily.

I looked down at my body, realizing for the first time how exposed I was despite the thick towel wrapped around me. I blushed in embarrassment and nodded in apology towards Ikari-kun, Suzuhara-san and Aida-san. Before anything else might happen, I retreated to the bathroom to finish my business. Mentally, I fought the urge to curse NERV's faulty water heater. The bright side to it made the experience worth it. I would be spending the evening with Ikari-kun and I didn't mind that idea. The whole prospect made me feel calm and contented.

Once I'd assured myself that my mouth was truly soap free, I rinsed the remainder of the body wash from myself and toweled off. After having a blob of soap actually launch itself from the bottle and into my face and mouth when I tried to open the container was enough excitement for me. Plus, I figured I didn't need to be any cleaner. I brushed out my hair and pulled on the change of clothes Section Two gave me; a light blue v-neck t-shirt, knee length jean skirt, black leggings, and silver ballet flats. Finally, I studied my reflection in the mirror. While I agreed the whole ensemble felt awkward, I didn't look all that bad on the whole. I would adjust in time.

When I emerged, Horaki-san and Pilot Soryu were stretched out on the sofa, watching television and sipping from glasses of Coke. Suzuhara-san sat in the easy chair next to Horaki-san, a massive grin plastered across his face. Meanwhile the nurses had commandeered a corner of the room for themselves and all their things. I claimed one of the plush pillows and took a seat on the floor.

"Are you okay, Ayanami? I heard about…" Horaki-san inquired with concern.

Pilot Soryu turned away with a dark expression on her face. I had no doubt she was still furious at me for what she considered to be a cruel and insensitive joke. I wished I could explain to Pilot Soryu that it really had been her mother speaking to her but I doubted I could convince her of that. Even if by some miracle she believed me, that fact could drive her permanently from Unit Two.

"Hai; thank-you. I was unharmed by the incident." I assured Horaki-san.

Horaki-san smiled in relief; she started to say something more but the arrival of Aida-san and his video camera cut her off.

"And over here we see the lovely ladies of our group and the other great champion. These four are the epitome of strength and hard work."

"Aida-san, you're embarrassing us. Stop it!" A furiously blushing Horaki-san pleaded weakly.

"What modesty from the great Class Rep!"

Horaki-san's blush deepened several shades and she hung her head low, allowing her bangs to obscure her features. Before Aida-san could mortify her more, Suzuhara-san spoke up. "Hey Kensuke. Do you still want some footage of me walking with my new prosthetics? I think it's time for me to put them back on."

"Sure!" Aida-san agreed eagerly.

The nurses rose quietly to their feet and carried Suzuhara's prosthetic leg and arm over to him. Working together, they spent the next several minutes strapping everything in place. Lastly, Suzuhara-san wiggled his limbs around to see that everything was ready. "Alright Kensuke; go grab Shinji from the kitchen. It's time to watch the magic."

Aida-san released a cry of delight and dashed back into the kitchen. Seconds later he pulled Ikari-kun out into the main room with him. They each went to one of Suzuhara-san's sides and he placed his arms around their necks. Together they worked to help Suzuhara into a standing position and find his sense of balance. Once he achieved equilibrium, they stepped back to give him room. Aida-san raised his video camera and shouted an enthusiastic, "Action!"

Suzuhara-san made a face but complied by taking a few shaky steps across the floor with great care. Aida-san cheered him on, his voice full of encouragement. Ikari-kun joined in and declared his support. The rest of us were quick to follow and vocalize encouragement for Suzuhara-san. He smiled in gratitude for the loyal backing but he appeared tired already. Suzuhara-san slowly made his way back towards the armchair and sank appreciatively into the cushions.

He closed his eyes and breathed deeply for several minutes until he caught his breath. We watched him closely, concerned that he'd over done it and worn himself completely out but he recovered quickly. "How does the footage look, Kensuke?" He asked with a smile.

Aida-san grinned back and gave Suzuhara-san thumbs up. "Excellent!" He assured us confidently.

In the background, the oven's timer buzzed loudly, momentarily distracting all of us from Suzuhara-san. Ikari-kun nodded and headed for the kitchen. I followed right behind him, curious to see what this mysterious thing called macaroni and cheese looked like. In the kitchen, Ikari-kun leaned over and opened the oven door. Using a pair of oven mitts to shield his hands, Ikari-kun removed the glass dish filled with his bubbling, yellow-orange creation with brown circular chunks of meat. I inhaled the aroma and decided I liked how it smelled.

"I know it's not the tofu and bean curry I wanted to make for you but I promise it'll be tasty. I've made it for Asuka and Misato before so I know that for a fact."

Ikari-kun carefully placed it on the stovetop and began searching for something in the silverware drawer. He came up with a fork and gave it to me. Ikari-kun nodded towards the dish cooling on the range top in indication that I should try a bite. He's smiled reassuringly and placed his hand on my shoulder. "Don't worry, Ayanami. The hot dogs are made of flavored tofu and soybeans so it's safe for you to eat. I know it's a strange European dish but you can trust my cooking."

Bravely, I reached out with my fork and inserted it into the corner of the dish. I lifted a steamy golden portion into the air and blew air over it to cool it off. After a minute it stopped steaming quite so profusely and I felt safe that it would not burn my mouth, so I took a bite. The cheesy, creamy taste that graced my tongue was unlike anything I'd had before. Macaroni and cheese was simply delicious and I loved it. With a smile on my face, I cleaned off my fork and informed Ikari-kun of my approval.

He grinned back as he looked inside the steamer to check on the vegetables. He poked at them gently and placed the lid back on. "I thought it would make you happy, Rei. Now, let's go tell the others that dinner is ready, they're probably getting impatient from waiting."

The next morning…

Dr. Akagi inserted the needle into my arm and injected a purple substance into my body. It took only a few moments for me to feel the effects of the drugs upon my being. My limbs became heavy and difficult to move. My mind slid dangerously into the realm of unconsciousness. The world soon became overwhelmingly fast and I had trouble tracking what was going on around me. As the chemicals took control of me, Dr. Akagi disappeared into the next room. She returned with a strange contraption. Tubes and wires dangled out of all sides from a single black box in the center. The whole thing looked evil.

Dr. Akagi approached the side of my bed and placed the apparatus next to me. Next, she attached I.V. bag full of the same purple liquid, as she'd injected into me, to the center core of the machine. Then, Dr. Akagi lifted one of the tubes and attached a needle to the end of it. This tube, along with a corresponding wire was inserted into my elbow. I winced in agony as it all made contact with my muscles. Dr. Akagi repeated this process at every joint from my neck, to my ankles.

When I was completely hooked up to Dr. Akagi's machine, she plugged it into an electrical outlet. I could feel the prickle of electricity tingling at my joints in response. Dr. Akagi pressed some button and bolt of white-hot pain flashed through my body. My right arm jerked into the air. Dr. Akagi nodded with pleasure and pressed a second set of buttons. This time my entire body sat upright in a heartbeat. I cringed as my being was wracked by unimaginable pain. My head spun crazily, as it flopped against my chest.

The next several days passed in a blur. Nothing meant anything to me, but the pain and the impossible swirl of faces. I had no idea how much time I spent lying in that hospital bed. Hours? Days? Weeks? The whole thing was impossible for to me keep track of. The only thing I was conscious of was the pain. I thought for sure this would never end; the torture seemed to go on and on. Slowly, a pattern of rest and activity was established. I had no idea if this was related to the cycle of day and night but I guessed that it was.

One point, during the quiet hours when I was left to lay alone, I heard the unexpected sound of footsteps. Maybe…Dr. Akagi was returning for me…I did not want to hurt anymore. Fruitlessly, I struggled to move my super drugged body but nothing happened. Something took my hand and lifted it from the bed. My initial reaction told me Dr. Akagi was preparing for another round of pain. Using all of my strength, I summoned two words to express how I felt. "No…please…."

"Ayanami, …safe."

At the familiar sound of Ikari-kun's voice, a wave of fear went through me. He should not be here! I forced my eyes open, desperate to force Ikari-kun from the premise. I attempted to squeeze his hand to get his attention but had no success. Ikari-kun hands rested upon my ankles. Then next thing I knew, Ikari-kun had completely detached me from Dr Akagi's machine. He lifted me effortlessly into his arms and I hung limp as a rag doll. "Come…. I….out."

Desperation seized me but I couldn't communicate this to Ikari-kun. Most of my limited strength was long gone. I summoned every ounce of will and used it to place my hand on Ikari-kun's shoulder. "Ikari-kun…run…go…" I pleaded.

I wanted to say more but my voice failed me. Ikari-kun wrapped me up in his arms and I was swept helplessly from the room. It was all I could do to remain conscious and absorb what was going on around me. I shivered with unexpected coldness. Ikari-kun kissed my forehead gently and carried me from the room. I wanted so desperately to fight him but my body was useless. Tears formed at the corners of my eyes as I struggled unsuccessfully not to cry.

All too soon, cool air rushed over my face, as we left the confines of NERV. What was Ikari-kun planning? I tried to ask him but my voice failed me. Ikari-kun held me even more tightly to him. In the distance, I recognized the sound of a running car engine. Ikari-kun hurried towards it and a moment later he was speaking to someone.

"Shinji…what…her…"

I blinked, attempting to place the woman's voice. It was so close…Major Katsuragi! When had Ikari-kun called her? What happened? I felt like I missed something in all this. Ikari-kun patted my hand and replied to Major Katsuragi's question. I didn't hear the whole response but I recognized one word, hospital. 'No, no, NO!' my mind screamed. 'Didn't they realize how dangerous that was? Commander Ikari would have their heads for sure!'

To my increasing dismay, the Major appeared to be following Ikari-kun's directions. A feeling of dread consumed me as I watched the buildings of Tokyo III pass by through the window. I needed to warn them of the danger before it was too late. I feared their fate might already be sealed but I prayed that I might be able to save them. My body was so weak; I didn't know what I could accomplish with such little strength.

The car came to an abrupt stop and Ikari-kun carried me inside the front doors. Horaki-san's eldest sister stood waiting for us on the other side. She took one look at me and her face fell in concern. The next thing I knew, I lay on a gurney, attached to an I.V., heart monitor and dialysis machine. My head spun and struggled to focus on anything coherent.

"Kodama, is she going to be okay? What is that stuff?" Misato demanded with an edge of concern in her voice.

Kodama looked down at the glass jar she held in her hands and frowned deeply. The purple substance swirled enigmatically in its clear container.

"I'd have to run some tests to be sure but if this is what I believe it to be, this is a powerful drug. It interferes with the brain's ability to communicate with the rest of the body; give someone too much, the heart and lungs quit working. That's why I hooked her up to the dialysis machine. I want to get this stuff out of her body as quickly as possible."

Shinji nodded in agreement and squeezed Rei's hand tightly. The blue haired girl mumbled incoherently in response. Shinji smiled weakly at her, in an effort to calm his own fears. Not surprisingly, the First Child didn't respond. Shinji found himself a chair and settled in to wait.

Misato frowned when Kodama entered the room with a concerned expression on her face. The doctor leaned over and began to examine the teenage patient before her. After a moment, Kodama shook her head and muttered angrily under her breath. Misato approached the younger woman and placed her hand on her arm. "What did the test results show?"

"Nothing good. The substance in the jar and in her body; was the one I feared it to be. The blood tests showed that she has a near fatal amount of it in her blood stream. Someone clearly did this intentionally and had to be monitoring her. The electrical burns at her joints indicate that it was used as some sort of shock treatment or experiment."

Kodama reached into her lab coat pocket and removed a tube of burn cream. She rubbed it on to the blisters that marked Rei's joints. The patient sighed contentedly in response to contact with the cool substance. Shinji stroked Rei's hair, while Misato assisted Kodama in wheeling in a cart with an ultrasound machine on top. The women set it beside Rei and connected it to the monitor. Misato motioned for Shinji to step back and she pulled the screen closed.

"So, are you sure this will work?" Misato asked Kodama, as she turned off the lights.

"Yes, this should tell us how long she's been exposed to the chemicals. The signs should be obvious if she's had a serious amount of it in her body for any length of time. Kodama squirted a large amount of jelly and placed the probe against Rei's abdomen. After moving it around for several moments, a new frown formed upon her face. "This isn't right…" She murmured.

"What's wrong?" Misato asked, as she leaned over to see the screen better.

"The first child doesn't have any of her female reproductive organs. I've never seen anything like this."

"Did someone cut them out of her?"

Kodama shook her head. "No, there's no scaring; she was born this way. Either her lack of female parts is a natural occurrence or she was subjected to extensive chemical and genetic manipulation during development."

Misato made a face of revulsion, which Shinji mimicked from the other side of the curtain. Misato shook her head and pointed at the screen. "Kodama, what are those?"

"You mean the jagged and malformed areas? Those are what should have become her ovaries but their development was halted quiet prematurely; instead they're just dead tissue."

"I believe you know what the open area below that is? It's where her uterus is supposed be. The lining should be much thicker and muscled; for her that's basically a thin layer of protective membrane."

Misato nodded slightly while scratching her head. Kodama watched the confusion and frustration, as she stared down at the young girl. Finally, one clear thought came through the whirl of confusion. "Then why does she have such big…you know…*she motioned to her own ample endowments*…they're not huge but certainly suitable for her age."

Kodama considered the question carefully for several minutes before answering. "I suspect someone's been giving her injections of female hormones to compensate for her lack of the appropriate parts. Alternately she might have some really good genes but I don't think that's likely. More importantly, I know I can help her out."

"How?" Shinji interrupted eagerly.

"I can draw a sample of her blood and use it to clone a proper set of female organs then surgically attach them where they belong. Do you know where her parents are? I'd need to receive their permission." Kodama explained.

Following Kodama's words the room fell silent. Misato shifted awkwardly and Shinji could be heard softly muttering in anger. Kodama looked back and forward between the two, waiting for an explanation to their strange behavior. "Ayanami doesn't have parents any more, my father's her guardian. I…I don't think he'd allow her to…" Shinji explained tensely.

Kodama's eyes widened in understanding and she nodded sympathetically. "Commander Ikari…yeah, I can see why that would be a problem. If you promise to keep it a secret, I can do it and not tell."

"What happens when Ritsu finds out and tells the Commander?" Misato grumbled.

"I don't know."

The journey of Reika Ayanami…

I lay on my back upon a sofa, staring up at the ceiling of the Horaki family living room. Despite the blanket that was wrapped around me, I felt cold and weary. I was starting to think that a nap might be a good idea. I had rested and stuffed myself full for a day but my body had only begun to recover. From the kitchen, I recognized the sounds of Kodama and Sana's voices. Although I couldn't make out what they were saying, I had a pretty good idea what it was.

Their conversation almost certainly covered one or both of the most popular subjects concerning me, their thoughts on my latest physical exam or how to forge the paperwork to get me appropriately placed on the lung transplant list. Part of those goals seemed to including getting me in to see the doctor at the hospital who was an expert on lung defect and injuries. Of course, my situation made all of that difficult, after all I was a 'deceased' minor with no records and a guardian who had desired my demise. However, they were rather determined not to be hindered by those facts, for which I was eternally grateful.

I was starting to drift off when Mina appeared at my side and held out an apple to me. "Mommy said you hungry."

I accepted the red fruit with a smile and took a bite. Mina frowned sadly as she sat down beside me. "Why must you live here, Miss Reika? You no better?"

I patted Mina on the head but was unable to answer her question because I wasn't sure how to simplify the truth. The real reason I'd been moved was because of Kensuke's selection as an Evangelion Pilot. Naturally, Section Two wanted to wire 'security' cameras throughout the Aida residence so I had to be gone. It appeared I'd be spending the rest of my convalescence at Horaki household. Thankfully, there was room, care and food for me here too.

The ultimate goal was for me to get well enough to live on my own. Once that day came, I'd find an apartment somewhere safe and live there. Of course, I needed a makeover and a new school to attend before then. I was actually looking forward to that because I eagerly anticipated the sense of normalcy and security that came with it. I also wanted the long hair to play around with, I was very much still a girl at heart.

"I came here because bad people wouldn't be happy to know I'm alive and I'm afraid they'd find me at your house." I explained to Mina.

"Here safe?" Mina asked, a note of concern evident in her voice.

"Hai." I assured her, "I'm in no danger here."

Mina smiled happily and clapped her hands with a cheer. I couldn't resist grinning with her. Despite all the challenges before me, I'd come a long way already. I was free and safe at last. I couldn't ask for more than that because it was actually a pretty sweet feeling.

Author's Notes:

First and foremost, I don't own Evangelion!!!!!! Why would I be posting this here if I did? 'Nuff said.

With diabolical laughter, Sesshy strikes again. I hope you all enjoyed this latest installment. Many tanks to 94Saturn for making the Kaji/Misato scene possible.

Sesshy knows she took far too long getting this up and she apologizes for the delay. College life has been busy, difficult and engrossing for her ladyship. She promises to do better in the future.

Please leave a review before you go. I love each and every one of them. They also give me extra incentive to work on the next chapter. ;)

Lastly - The Teaser:

I wouldn't, couldn't believe my eyes. There was simply no way I wasn't halucinating. Tabris was HERE!