< An unknown age of glorious swordsmen, Kyoto > Close to lake Biwa one midnight like many others ( Only in appearance ), two shadows can be visualized between many bushes. With unusual ( Yet, elegant ) fighting stances, two individuals look at each other making only visible the fulminating fire from their eyes on the imperant darkness. Both of their blades had slight blood capes over the steel structures, making the fight equal at first sight; and although both contenders seemed almost of a similar evil lineage, a long hared one was lower in evilness compared with the other. Indeed, both had long historials of deaths, duels and different kinds of felonies... Both were criminals from head to feet, period. However, even Genjuro had to admit he was far behind this individual in several degrees of evilness. Even though he professed to many with a growing reputation that hell was right behind his back, now it was the time to meet a hell-made spawn. He didn't know the man at all in aspect or reputation. Though, the bloody samurai accepted after the first three minutes of duel, that not only him and the man he was seeking revenge on for a long time were the mightiest swordsmen of Japan... He included this individual too, whoever he was. A new window of fun was opened for Genjuro with this nobly dressed young man. Although he was not Haomaru, he hated people who lived in comfort. Besides that, this purple hared criminal loved opponents with that skill, without caring if the price for dueling them was death itself. Genjuro smirked and spoke with and overconfident tone, while the apparently nobleman in front of him remain emotionless as before the duel. Genjuro: - Whoever you are, you're about to die... Is it going to be for personal reasons or just the love to see the blood of your opponent sliding all over your blade ? - Man: - Aye, the love to see your blood sliding all over my blade. No reason in particular provokes this unmatched desire, but maybe the pleasure of feeling so. - Genjuro: - If I didn't kill a beloved one to you and you were not sent by the shogun to slay me, you're either a madman or pure devil in all its essence... I don't know why, but I have the feeling the second fits more with your profile. - Man: - If devil I am, then reality's at my side unlike your pitiful case, you non grateful vomit. - Genjuro: - [ With a bright spark on right eye ] How perfectly darling. - That marked the end of the brief recess as both warriors charged against each other their might through the white dazzling steel blades. Either in a swing or a metal clash, every single sound emitted by both samurais released a considerable amount of energy for soldiers of their unique lineage. Gathering the last ounce of strength residing on their bodies, their muscles help them jump at an unimaginable height while rising their respective blades on different hitting positions. As the sound of edged metal cutting flesh and darkens covers the Scene, the rapture of the actions we see the blade of the unknown man encrusted on Genjuro's waist... However, as Genjuro grunts for the helpless pain, the purple hared samurai gets the opportunity to observe the body of the stranger falling in two pieces right over the surface of the lake. Genjuro lands with a lot of effort on his feet over the shore of the lake. Moaning silently as he extracts the sword of the slain stranger out of his shoulder, Genjuro then proceed to cover himself with the rest of his outfit, taking out after that a smoking pipe. However, as the pipe's on it's way to Genjuro's mouth, he falls seated over the floor, resenting greatly the pain of that major wound applied in a deslikable symphony with the other minor wounds on his body. Genjuro sighs while covering his wound and says silently to an uprising moon: " Haomaru, the defeat of a mamono by the blade of the mortal has been taken as a sign of invincibility for excellence during ages. You're finished, enemy mine. Oh yes, you are... " Genjuro gets up slowly, knowing he was going to survive to that deep wound if treated on time... However, he almost died on that one. While no one was paying attention, that stranger's technique was for Genjuro's heart to receive, but almost like guided by somebody else, Haomaru's eternal rival managed to move from that threat and make the technique, less mortal. The samurai was aware... Yes, he knew that since the day he made the purpose of his existence to slay Haomaru, times became hard and violent for those who hated violence. In a desillutional way of thinking, Genjuro used to attribute himself the cause of all these incidents... However, the truth resided deep beyond that. Deep, deep, beyond that. The scene fades in a black curtain. ------------------------------------------------------------------ Four ways of hatred, chapter twelve: " Emotions, a tale Duraní whispered. " ------------------------------------------------------------------ { Music cue: " Tus gestos " Presuntos Implicados }. < Irvan kingdom, Feirkallak >. Dozens of little flying-talking sparks surround evas 0, 1 and 2 in the middle of a shining pink space filled with transparent crystals of giant quartz. The place almost looked like taken out from the strangest and imaginative fairy tale of all... And emphasizing even more this assumption, a close up on the little lights show us that these are indeed, what we humans have known during long generations as: Fairies. The little ladies with long rods and dresses, begin commenting while circling around the three evangelions things such as: " They fell asleep " or " Wow, they are as huge as master Zomo ". Ahem, this everyone, is the incredible world of wonders of Feirkallak. Only planet of its solar system and probably the most fantastic of all on that universe. Placed at the very center of galaxy M100 by humans, the space asylum really named Duraní, shared that same opinion about this place, which purity and unimaginable nobility made it hypothetically the capital of fantasy for every tale writer over the universe. During the travel to their assigned place of training, the evas had troubles of unknown kind, almost getting out of course at the risk of landing elsewhere in the universe and staying there forever lost, given their amount of power and lack of experience on this particular matter. In order to prevent this, the evas saw no other choice but to work as a team and avoid getting " sucked " out of the space warp they were on. However, surrendering all their power for this purpose once exhausted, the young eva pilots passed out the rest of the way to Duraní. Still unconscious, the eva pilots were safe now anyway. Over the gathering of fairies around, the descending presence of a dwarf with long red wings dissipated a bit the conglomeration around the evas, as his beard, hair and eyebrows made impossible to determine how old was he in appearance. As a traditional stereotype on such creatures, the fairies began yammering with childish voice things as: " what do you think master Zomo will do with them ? " or " the master came to their encounter on his original form. " Clearing his throat, the funny individual examined the evangelions carefully, turning in seconds to the community of fairies behind him, which remained silent at the expectation of any comment. Man: - They are the ones, alright. - The yammering of the crowd returned again, but now with a higher tone... Obviously, the announcement caused surprise in many of the little creatures ( Just to avoid saying everyone ). The man the fairies called " Zomo " cleared his throat again and the fairies remained silent again as if such gesture was a command. Zomo: - They are, I said... And as such, our duty will be no other but full cooperation, for these young ones were chosen to save not only our realm, but the space where this is contained as well. - One of the fairies closer to Zomo spoke with a confused tone. Fairy: - Then, shall we take them where Terb kun is right away ? - Zomo: - [ Shaking head slowly ] Not in the state they are. Hmmm, whoever did this didn't have the intention to see our guests here and surviving such threat requires a lot of strength like spirit. Let Terbiam san know they are here, I'm sure he'll anyway have a meeting with them later, as soon as they feel better. - Behind the crowd of fairies, a figure materialized as the diminute wall opened way for what appeared to be a young man. It was that precisely. A young man between 15 and 16 years old, red hared and investor of an outfit almost exact to a plug suit got closer to the little Zomo smiling. Zomo corresponded the gesture with a blink. Young man: - Zomo sama, I already know. - Zomo: - Of course, young Terbian. - Terbiam: - Terb, for you it's just Terb. I am your friend, am I not ? Then, call me as such, [ Rolling eyes ] the less I would need to know is that I am going to be one day king of Irvank. - Zomo: - Your highness please, don't say such kind of things. - Terbiam: - Oh yes, I am gonna. Please, let me at least enjoy for a moment the fact that there is life out here, above my throne. Although I was destined to become one day the successor to the throne of Rebank and consequently of Feirkallak, as the best friend of my father you know better than anyone how he was. - Zomo: - Indeed, I know. Reason why I see your late father in you, young Terb, as well as his emotions and wishes. - Terbiam: - Even as the liege of a whole real of beauty like this is, he was quite free spirited. Reason why I refuse to look the throne as a symbol of imposition... [ Blinking ] In the name Pan, she's very beautiful. - Zomo: - [ Bigsweating ] Who may I assume you are talking about young Terb ? - Terbiam: - Her skin reflects the color of her nobility, goodhood and integrity. I swear in the memory of my father, my eyes have never seen such beauty in a single being... How sublime. [ Thinking ] Ayanami Rei, what makes you so incredibly celestial?- Zomo: - [ Big-bigsweating ] I see... What should I do, Terb san ? - Terbiam: - Provide them rest, food and water on the blue gardens... I will know when the time comes to talk with them. - Zomo: - In the meantime, where will you be young Terb ? - Terbiam: - Mount Akio. - Zomo: - Are you going to have a word again with that knight Ryu again ? - Terbiam: - I must. There are still a few details to be arranged before the beginning of their training. - Zomo: - My care for them will be the best, young Terbiam. Leave unworried to wherever your fine presence is required. - Terbiam: - You know, a simple " bye " can do sometimes. - Zomo: - [ With hair strays ] Okay... " Bye ". - Terbiam: - [ Smiling with eyes closed ] You see, nice and short. The way you say it doesn't matter, I will always look at you and the fairies with this same wonder like my father. Not being his desire only, but my desire as well. - The young man called Terbiam began walking in the direction of the evas, as the count of his footsteps marked the rate of his disappear in the middle of that space. The old dwarf is left with his fairies, as he thinks with a hopeful expression: " It's just like talking with king Terbiam in every single aspect. Qualities of his kind are for excellence the best inheritance of all, for no golden throne can govern a kingdom, but the one seated on it. " A couple of hours were enough for our friends to wake up from their unconscious state and remain at the same time... Well, something more than amazed. After going through one of the worst odysseys in order to save mankind from a total annihilation, now Shinji, Asuka and Rei found themselves in the middle of those fairy tales they never heard about until many years after their young childhood. Even though Zomo was not good as a storyteller, he managed to tell the young eva pilots where they were, a slight resume of its history and the Terbiam kings... Also letting them know by advice of knight Ryu from Justo region, that Terbiam Axiaco, the second, was going to be their guide as well as master throughout their stay. This proved to the young trio that it is definitively never early to say: " I have seen everything in my life ". All the kids showed amazement at their very own ways. Asuka by blinking rapidly while no one was looking, Shinji ( as expected ) openmouthed at everything he might find uncommon ( Which was almost everything ) and Rei by not missing anything at all around her. After sensing things were alright to proceed, the young king Terbiam decided to introduce himself to the ones from planet Earth as " Terb ". Shinji and Asuka found strange but interesting at the same time that the one in charge of " leading them to their respective paths " was a boy of almost their age. Rei found this normal, after learning the lesson she learned with Ichiro, while thinking in the past he was just another boy ( Just a bit different ). But there was something else ( Yes, as you probably thought ). Rei sensed with her a slight increase of power after repelling with the others the effect of the third impact... Even at his young age, Terb as he asked them to be called by favor, had behind that noble and gentle exterior an incredible amount of power never seen by any of them; and although Asuka and Shinji were aware of this too, none of them could help at all to put first the fact that it was a kid like them the one responsible of that important step. Over one of the most beautiful hills of that realm, the trio like their host and trainer were looking at part of the vast land Terbiam was ruler of... The view was astonishing and out of anyone's belief concerning about every aspect of beauty. However, after catching the sights for a little while, it was time to get into what they arrived there for. Reason why Asuka began touching that topic with Terb. Asuka: - So, " nice meeting you cartoon land ". What's next on our itinerary, Terb kun ? - Terbiam: - In a quite resumed way, it all consists in becoming one with the mortally made titans you call " evas " or " evangelions " perhaps. Although the fact of being this one-step training, the one just mentioned has thousands of smaller spaces to be filled. Though, I really prefer to see things through the first point of view... Now, there's something I would like to know Asuka chan. - Asuka: - [ Thinking ] Must be a very important thing... Whatever it is, just mention it, Terb kun. - Terbiam: - [ Smiling ] Perhaps you can tell me what a cartoon is in order to understand fully what your first comment meant. - Asuka face-faults, but Rei and Shinji don't change their looks of now interest to what was behind Terbiam... A giant mechanical- like titan just like the evas, even in slim design and complexion. Shinji: - Are you also a pilot like us, Terb san ? - Terbiam: - [ Sighing ] Since my father passed away I became the only one in the family of the Oka. This behind me is Oka 17, the last defender of this realm since the other 16 still existed million years ago. - Rei: - It must be... An honor to be where you are. - Terbiam: - Far from considering an honor Ayanami san, it is just my delight... As it is to look into your eyes. - Blinking stranged, Rei blushed slightly for the so unexpected answer, but didn't took any extreme reaction. On the contrary, Shinji just couldn't help to bigsweat and think for a moment: " Is this the one responsible, for real ? " Terbiam: - Hai, Shinji san. I am the one for real, as you say. As well as I'm young and apparently a student into what life concerns. In your situation, I would find any other judgment strange. - Shinji: - Our... Situation ? - Terbiam: - I don't know exactly how Earth is, though I have heard from many kind souls how imperant is the dominion of science there. Your truths and realities were drastically changed with your unknown destinies, guided with this into a world of non- existence where you come from. What moves you only for the time being is the fact of saving your homeland and its inhabitants once again, despising all this, um, let's say " weirdness ". - Asuka: - [ Crossing arms ] Well yeah, maybe. But even if knowing already this place or whatever, is there any other better motive than the one you said ? Put yourself in our places. - Terbiam: - [ Smiling ] ... I guess you're right. I would hardly find in millions of years another reason better. - Asuka: - See, my intelligence can only be beaten by my beauty. - Terbiam: - [ Wondering ] Though, I would still like to know what is that " cartoon " thing you said. - Asuka face-faults again. Shinji: - [ Looking up ] True, many things I believed in were changed radically... The purpose of my existence, my feelings, thoughts and emotions. Everything took another course in such a few time. Even though I'm still trying to handle this truth, I know everything was meant to be. Even when extremed into what emotions concern, I am aware now of life and its meaning to every living being whether on Earth or in the rest of the universe. Everything with a little help of myself; [ Looking at Rei ] and my friends too. - Terbiam: - I also heard about your father. Gome... - Shinji: - As for my father... Well, he still is my father and I can't help to love him. Despising all what he and Keel Lorenz did to mankind, I know he did it all for my mother. Nobody can deny that at least that one was good cause. - Terbiam: - I know; and so does your mother. She forgives him for all... As an angel, she must be on of the kindest. - Asuka: - [ Dizzy ] So, as I was saying before... What's next ? - Terbiam: - Oh, whatever we'll see will be left for tomorrow morning right here early at dawn. In the meantime, go back with Zomo sama at Bard. - Shinji: - Where will you be Terb san ? Aren't you going to return with your mother in your palace ? - Terbiam: - No, I can't. As long as my task's to train you, my mother will be the liege of all this reign... Don't worry, come to think of it carefully she can do better than me on that aspect. Will I know by tomorrow what a cartoon is, Asuka chan ? - Asuka: - [ Silently with hair strays ] Oh, brother. - Shinji: - Then, see you tomorrow here, Terb san. Take care. - Terbiam: - [ Smiling ] You too, take care. - As soon as Terbiam turned to his " Oka ", the silent voice of Rei stopped him from going any further by saying: " Arigato for the compliment... Terb kun. " Terbiam smiled slightly, looking again at the albino girl's deep brown eyes... Losing again himself on her beauty. Terbiam: - I will let you know when I find a compliment worth to suit your beauty, Ayanami san, someday. - Asuka and Shinji got the picture right away from the eyes of prince Terbiam, towards their eva partner. Though, it was still kind of bizarre from them... And maybe the center of such feeling was centered on that young boy only, the place, the sound, the weather, the whole dilemma. Rei blushed a bit more with his attitude, very aware that her feeling were merely beginning to enjoy the privilege of likeness, as a human being... Even when being strange, all that emotion in a sudden was so very likable for her. Not with Ichiro or Ikki, Rei was displayed herself as a human being with prince Terbiam. The camera begins to back off a bit from the young people there, going up at the same time and allowing to see the exterior of the evas in front of Terbiam's Oka... Giving us silently the new view for the eva pilots about life and its endless wonders. The scene fades in a black curtain. --------------- { Music cue: " Ascension, don't ever wonder " Maxwell }. As dawn hits the horizon on the hill eva members and prince Terbiam had their meeting, the evangelions were already there to face the challenges expecting them. Not knowing exactly where the hardness of the training resided ( Given the soft, young and noble appearance of prince Terbiam ), the three children found surprising to meet there not quite the ruler of Feirkallak they all talked with last day, but instead a a golden figure with the young ruler's aspect... The being claimed be prince Terbiam and that if they were going to stand there the whole day wondering if this was real or not, the rest of the of the training was going to be a waste of time. " It was him " they all accepted in unison. However, there was an aspect undeniably different from the young prince they originally met... He had the temple and decision of a man; and not just an ordinary man, but a leader of leaders as Zomo pointed them after returning to Bard village. To the eva children things were getting complicated, even when not accepting this fully. After living in a world leaded by conflicts of innumerable kinds consequences of a disaster which claimed the lives of half human population, the fact of discovering a wonderful world behind the iron curtain of technology was probably too much for them to handle normally. Besides that small fact, unlike the other trios on Doldo, Canal and Ubrak, Shinji, Asuka and Rei still configured the most conflictive trio of all. Even with the help of Ichiro and others ( Including holy chosen, friends and holy knights ), it was still hard for them to embrace what they were destined to become after a life of pure conflicts and denials. Though, each of them had their own version of their changes. Shinji after viewing how the mighty leader of NERV was easily almost beaten to death by a boy of almost his age, who happened to be also a good friend, believed dead sometimes after his mysterious vanishing. For Asuka it was just enough to fall in love for a man that could love and protect her equally. A man who could know her secrets and feel still the same way for her... A man who could make her forget that the world owed her all the disgraces she experienced through all her existence. For Rei it was just the fact of not being dependable anymore of the " I can be replaced " line. Not considered as a clone anymore, Rei was now fully a human with thousands of feelings to be developed at a still " not too late " age. Despising how bizarre the story of Sheng Long and the dragonballs story could be for her, she was finally a human and knight Ikki made it all possible. ( Note: None of the eva trio had knowledge of the already classic anime-manga: Dragonball. Specially Rei... See chap 9 for a reality- imagination explanation ). Even with all those changes, the eva trio was still in essence the same naive, inexperienced, yet extremely explosive kids. Now about prince Terbiam: Like Shinji, Asuka and Rei, he was the pilot of an Oka, combative and defensive artifact with the same harmonics system of the evangelion units and which history of construction was lost through the centuries and millenniums. The practice of managing an Oka was passed generationally in an autodidactical way, without complex explanations. Originally, 17 of these were created to defend the magical land. Very unfortunately, 16 were lost during horrible and chaotic wars. By the time only the 17th was left, the intensity of the conflicts diminished and it was the turn of King Terbiam to rule all that vast land. Chosen by his kingdom by who was he and not for belonging to a royal family, King Terbiam the first was a man pure of mind, heart and spirit who married a middle-class woman like the one he came from. Eventually he found out that he was the only man over that land able to control the last Oka; and even without the help of others, it lasted for a long time against small enemies left from the small wars that occurred before his time. One day king Terbiam was stabbed to death by his own traitor brother who was bought by the enemy, plus the envy he had for his brother. Terbiam's son was only 13 by that time and saw in person the betrayal of his uncle. Unfortunately, for Tarich ( The uncle ) the rage of Terbiam Jr. exploded and took by himself without instruction the Oka and smashed all the authors of the assassination... Including Tarich. Once out of the Oka, the last form people saw Terbiam was that golden one, before passing out and not waking up until a month later. By the time he woke up, the last news he heard from her mother, was that the incident after turning all golden and berserk was that the rumor of this incident made all the oppositors left to the slain king Terbiam surrendered, saying disappointed: " Never ever thought the son of king Terbiam could be the next Akada ". ( Note: Akada were believed to be the original creators of the Okas one million years ago. With unique wisdom and might since its birth, the Akadas was the most powerful beings of that reign. Before passing away after living one thousand years, they left the promise that another one of their kind was going to return there in 10 million years, creating this an advice which turned eventually into a mere legend or superstition ). Terbiam not long after the incident met knight Ryu and learned everything he knew about the holy wars and the fact of being a Ikiokua sensei. ( Note: " Ikiokua ".... Holy dialect term referring, choosing or designation ). Considering an apparent peace had finally arrived to that fantastic land, Terbiam decided with his council that her mother was going to be the temporary ruler of Feirkallak. She accepted the charge, not before wishing her first and only son good luck on his quest as the next Akada. Whether he was an Akada or not, after the death of his father Terbiam learned to control his power in short time... What was really curious about this change was the change of temper in him by acquiring this other form. Everyone ignored that the one on Terbiam was not at all a " change " of personality, but instead the serious side of leadership he never tended to employ... It seemed that he projected easily this quality better after morphing. Prove of this was the fact of forcing Shinji, Asuka and Rei to move by free will the evas without energy, magic or going berserk... Although it took a lot of fuming from Asuka to do this, ( Getting the rest of the party uncomfortable in the process ) they all made it. And not just this, no, all their weapons ( Including firing batteries ) were actually activated without the need of light or heavy ammo, but instead with Ikonic energy from their spirits. By the end of the day, Oka 17 made the evangelions look ridiculous by beating them in every combative aspect, without getting at least slightly touched. As soon as sunset's rays touched the hill and the faces of our friends, we see the evas looking at Oka 17 floating over them as Asuka glares to it extremely upset. Asuka: - IT AIN'T NO FAIR YOU CHEAT !!! HOW THE HELL ARE WE GONNA REACH YOU THERE !!?? - Oka 17 decided to descend where the evas were slowly. Asuka: - [ Smirking ] Good boy. - Unfortunately before moving, Asuka's actions were interrupted by Terbiam's voice below her, already in his usual form. Terbiam: - Very good for today, as remarkable as I thought you would all be. You can go back to Bard village and rest before tomorrow's dawn once again. - Shinji: - Is this really it ? I don't understand. - Asuka: - Neither do I, get back on yours and finish this out. - Terbiam: - [ Thinking, sweating ] I wonder if their comrades are just like them... However, Rei chan seems to be taking things very cool and calm. Just as I thought, her interior's as pure as her exterior. - Rei: - Terb kun, then is it tomorrow at the same hour ? - Asuka: - [ Fuming ] Hey you ! Don't get in my way, wonder girl !!- Terbiam: - [ Smiling, sweating ] Just get a well deserved rest. How to keep on going if you're not rested in body, heart and iko ? Tomorrow's gonna be a brand new day... Or so the saying goes. - Shinji: - I see, it's reasonable enough for me. Come on Asuka, let's get going. - Asuka: - What, are you stupid ? I don't know you my idiot Shinji, but I'm not through yet with Terb kun here. - Terbiam: - [ Smirking ] Oh, but you will have your time to be trough with me as much as you like Asuka chan, oh yes. - The scene turns gray in a sudden and then we see in english letters the line " exactly 27 days later ". The 17th Oka falls to the ground hard as the camera then pictures the sky with a triumphant eva 2, floating on a victorious position. Out of their fighting mecha, the pilots like their guide are again at sunset's touch, exchanging opinions about what occurred that day... Specially Asuka. As an eternal outfit for them, Shinji, Rei and Asuka had their plug suits on, like prince Terbiam had his royal battle outfit. Walking around the hill while talking, the quartet looked more like a bunch of old friends more than anything else. Asuka: - And you were completely right about having time to be through with you... Come to think of it, this season will be very entertaining. - Rei: - What will be our next task, Terb kun ? - Asuka: - [ Rising right eyebrow ] Huh, next ? - Terbiam: - Good, you noticed. - Shinji: - You mean that there's really something harder than defeating you in combat ? I can't believe it. - Terbiam: - Then you're either naive or just purely humble... Or perhaps both ? Well, the truth is that yes, there is actually a single greater challenge besides beating me... To beat yourselves. - Asuka: - Nani ? Is that another double edged comment ? - Terbiam: - [ Smiling ] That is part of the challenge too. - Rei: - To beat ourselves... But, will you be at our side as always Terb kun on our way to it ? - Asuka: - [ Sly smile ] I smell a crush again on wonder girl. - Shinji: - [ Thinking ] No doubt about it, Rei has become completely a human being like Asuka and me. I wonder what would dad say if he knew... Oh my, why do I think these things ? - Terbiam: - Whatever a crush means Asuka chan, I've got some more good news for you. - Asuka: - Will you dance for us as a reward for your defeat ? - Shinji covered his face with cracked lips. Terbiam: - From now on you will see me again in this way, until your training's over. There's no point on combating you when you have already trespassed the borderline I'll be stuck on for the rest of my life... Though, I can still be of your assistance.- Asuka: - And... [ Gesturing " go on " ] - Terbiam ceased walking and took quickly from behind his back three blue-dark elegant outfits. Terbiam: - These once belonged to Oka pilots, generations ago. For some strange reason these three still conserve their original states and happen to be of your size too. - Rei: - [ Blinking ] They, they are beautiful. - Shinji: - Very much, arigato Terb san. - Asuka: - Even I must admit they're both right... Why do you do this, is it really just because we defeated you in combat ? Because there's something else, isn't it ? - Terbiam: - I haven't figured out completely the other reason why yet. Though I know quite well, it's a good decision. - Shinji: - Then, will we see you tomorrow at dawn here as always ?- Terbiam: - No, this time I'm coming with you. - Rei: - [ Slightly surprised ] Is that really true Terb kun ? Are you coming to stay with us ? - Terbiam: - And why not ? I was not going to keep a pattern with the former style I employed after training. - Shinji: - You know ? I must confess this is turning even more interesting as time passes by. - Terbiam: - The feeling is mutual, Shinji san. - Asuka: - [ Thinking ] Though that Shinji dork sounds childish... He's right, I can't help either to think about how interesting things are turning into. If it's not in the powers we develop day after day, then it's in Shinji's friendship or in wonder girl's strange kinda crush. Wonder if Ichiro's having a time like this, wherever he is ? - Then in a place called Doldo, very, very, very far from there a young man by the name Ichiro Farfán sneezes for no apparent reasons as his Galent partners look at him with question marks. With soft piano music, the scene reopens, focusing prince Terbiam over the branch of a high tree on Bard village while looking three of the twelve moons surrounding Feirkallak. As the music takes control of the environment with its relaxing and nostalgic tunes, Terbiam's thoughts gather voice in order to know what's he thinking about. Terbiam: - Otousan, they still don't know it fully but... I know they are. Ever since you died I have damned what people around me calls " a blessing ", now I understand. That strike of hatred, the light... It all turned so powerful for me to handle at once, but this day, already several months after the tragedy, I understand that whether a blessing or not... This power, this lended knowledge, it will all work out for them and become the saviors of everything. You know what else ? I also consider them my friends. Even though they're so young, all their twists of emotions and goals have meant nothing to their stability; and even away from their homeland, they have come to like very much Feirkallak. There's countless wonder inside each of them. At their very own ways, they show the way life should be lived... They are nothing but the living reflection of youth, dreams and hopes. Otousan arigato, I'm really proud to be where I am. - As soon as finished with his monologue-conversation ( Feel free to choose according to your beliefs ) ended, a low " Terb kun " behind him, got the attention of the young ruler, answering with a tender smile, but without turning or at least trying. Terbiam: - Rei san, is that you ? I didn't notice your presence since I was so distracted. - The camera moves to the other side of the tree as Rei takes a look to the three satellites visible on her side... By the way, she was already investing the suit Terbiam granted her, Shinji and Asuka. Rei looked extremely beautiful inside that serious, but elegant kind of fashion. Rei: - Your father was a man unique in his kind. - Terbiam: - [ Sighing ] Did you hear everything I said ? - Rei: - I didn't meant to... I can't help controlling this power, this, this, this... - Terbiam: - Unknown ability ? - Rei: - This change has brought to Asuka, Shinji and I mixed and bizarre feelings at once. Either wonder or just happiness, I believe we can't control them perfectly yet. - Terbiam: - Aahhh, but you're all holy chosen. A day will come on which this will mean anything but an obstacle, Rei chan. Did I mention you look absolutely wonderful on that Oka suit ? - Rei: - [ Blushing slightly ] Well... No. - Terbiam: - Well, you do. Quite a lot... Do you like it ? - Rei: - [ Nodding ] Hai, of course, why wouldn't I ? - Terbiam: - Well, I don't know. I guess that is just futile to even try to find something worth to displays of glory like yourself. - Rei: - Terb kun, why do you have all those concepts about me ? - Terbiam: - When dealing with the truth, to have concepts is out of the line... I'm merely telling you what I see and at the same time what everyone thinks but no one dares to say. - Rei: - Nande mas ka ? - Terbiam: - [ Nodding ] Behind that concept of " freak " everyone used to describe your person, no one ever ignored your beauty. Behind that silence and despising what you used to be, no one ever ignored what you were... One of the few personifications of beauty. - ( Note: " Thanks " to Asuka, Terbiam familiarized with many terms used on Earth. One of those was: freak ). Rei: - So, you knew that too... - Terbiam: - I believe that friend of yours, knight Ikki said once that the only thing you required to be human, was a real organism. I suppose Shinji's mother is an angel by now, but her presence still remains in you... That's gotta be human enough for anyone. - Rei: - Terb kun, I, I, I... - Terbiam: - [ Blinking ] Hai ? What is it ? - Rei: - [ Blushing ] No, it's nothing, nevermind. - Terbiam exhaled and looked at the moons on his side and so did Rei, still blushing. After turning into human with the desire asked by Ikki to Sheng Long, Rei was still the same brilliant and exceptional young woman of always... Differenced only by her unexplored emotions, Rei was still the same crystalline Ikonical beign. After leaving her past with the odyssey of fighting " angels ", getting used to her unknown powers, emotions, future and meeting Terbiam, Rei Ayanami was now herself only. Leaving behind the fact that she owed her creation to Yui Ikari's cells and just... Living her life. Contemplating that her friends were different too physically and mentally, Rei was aware that whether the outcome might be after the year lapse, this was going to be a good one for everyone... Including prince Terbiam, which affection towards him was growing stronger day with day. The scene fades as Rei and Terbiam look separated, yet united at the same time while hearing silently the serenade the six moons around were providing the couple. --------------- { Music cue: " Carnival " The Cardigans }. Fighting in certain way the blind fight, one thing had to be admitted... The children were faithful. Although none of them had any proof about the dark lords or the dark knights and their original creator Kilma, the eva pilots decided to embrace the fate of traveling light years away from their home planet in a quest that could be easily interpreted as: " none of their concern. " On Earth, peace was abundant and healing for each and every single country, despising the interrogants like: What was SEELE and why NERV went through many changes after the day people worldwide denominated " the big sleep day " ? Shinji, Asuka and Rei could be enjoying the rest of their lives on Earth, instead of " sweating the fat drop "... At first, none of the children was aware of the reason why, but by the end of the seventh month a drastic change of mind took them to a different point of view along with a drastic maturation. Their bodies were strong and defined, their presence calm and comforting and their images hopeful and inspiring. Labeled as warriors in iko, the eva pilots went through a training like no other, emphasizing mostly on their fighting power, keeping basic magical and mental skills. No going through berserk stages, the eva pilots found a way to control and increase by own will this mysterious ability of theirs by themselves and not by technology ( Which machinery was nothing but an ornamental distinctive ). But the funniest detail of all was that... They were still the same good and emotional children that first stepped NERV with different reason and a common end. Getting used, familiarized and eventually satisfied of Feirkallak, the evangelions were now respected and even venerated figures between millions of fairies, gnomes, leprechauns, sylphs, dwarves, genies and many other beings as such. Just like in the days were the Oka forces prevailed during the reign of many kings, the evas revived the memories of the oldest beings, like trees and rocks. Lord Terbiam was now aware of how much he had fell in love with Rei in many aspects, but restrained himself from deeper comments farther from beautiful verses, along with elegant and discreet cajolery. Asuka assumed the role of certain fifth circle being known as Urd used to and after noticing the " touch you, touch me " game both were playing ( Because Rei was also falling deeply in love for the young liege ), Langley san took the initiative several times to either put them closer or compromised with embarrassing comments from her... Only Shinji's intervention made possible the fact of not allowing her to get even more deeper. But in between such hilarious situations, Shinji still looked her German-Japanese partner with eyes of deep attraction... Who knows ? Maybe love too, even with her situation. Ever since he met her, Shinji acknowledged Asuka's attractive but remained shy and silent towards the energetic young woman. As partners of the same operation, the relationship between both was professional... Farther from that, you could freely say competitive at most. But looking at it through an objective point of view, she was competitive with everyone. Anyway, maybe things would have gone farther between both in case Asuka wouldn't have known the young man who rejected " the privilege " ( As she pointed ) to be an evangelion pilot. Ichiro turned to be the object of her " attention " and reasonably. Unlike Shinji or others, Ichiro hated to flee or show cowardship in front of a discussion of any kind at all. Calm and serene, he always confronted the red hared woman, winning not only her rage and " dislikeness ", but also her primal interest. Eventually, both began giving themselves a little respect ( Whether of their likeness or not ) and finally showed for each other what they really felt: love. Yes, of the most strange and bizarre kind of all, but love at large. It was surprising for Shinji to notice that anyone else but Kaji could wake up in her such feelings, what the hell happened between both for Asuka to change her mind in a sudden ? Well, maybe the " drop that bursted out the glass " was the confession from Ichiro to Asuka about knowing her real self. However, even when having present the fact of this deep affection between both, Shinji couldn't help the fact of look Asuka the same way the day both first met... Even with his growth in body, heart and iko, Shinji was still human. And most important of all, Shinji was still young. Yes, he was terribly sorry for masturbating after viewing Asuka's breasts in all their splendor, even in the middle of a crisis. Though, Shinji admitted to himself that this was not lack of reason of any kind at all, but instead a last action of despair from him to show her that: " He loved her... Very much ". Was Asuka maybe aware of this, at least a bit ? Nobody could tell for sure. Even with all the gathered and increasing power, nobody could know for sure... Excepting maybe someone outside this triangle ? Yes, Terbiam noticed pretty well the conduct of Shinji, looking farther from the eyes of Rei and Asuka. However, it was not his doing to mess up feelings even more with advises of any kind. As the Ikiokua sensei he was, Terbiam's only duty was to pass them the ancient fighting techniques of former Oka fighters ( Knowledge acquired after viewing the betrayal against his father )... Job which he was performing perfectly well by making the evas and their pilots at the same time literally " invincible warriors of all arts ". Which was strange, since they were all taught that their physical weaknesses meant nothing in order to be excellent pilots... Another changed fallacy. Though, Terbiam was going to bend the rules in case any of the pilots would seek in the young prince any kind of advice... However, he was not going to do a thing by own initiative in case of considering it extremely necessary. After reaching a glory distant for other creatures to reach, the trio and their still guide were advised to move south, where the the land of Terbiam was, the kingdom of Rebank. Queen Beta didn't expect to see his son back so soon, as well as she didn't expect to meet the kids Terbiam was guiding. Shinji, Asuka and Rei felt honored to meet such fine and noble woman. The feeling was mutual for her, amazed with the fact of viewing from outside their courage and bravery. Being this the center of stability of Feirkallak, Rebank was the first of four kingdoms, which beauty and advance was simply: incomparable... Once again the trio had proof that there was never an enough amount of anything in a lifetime, into what witnessing concerned. By the 20th day of the seventh training month, the routine of our pilots was about to suffer again a slight change. Outside Rebank's castle Asuka is resting over the grass, looking at a vast garden of red roses and smiling. However ( As incredible as this may sound ) Asuka's smile didn't change at all, even after feeling for some time the presence of evangelion unit one pilot, who took a seat at her right side to contemplate the splendor of that red garden as well. Asuka looked more than gorgeous on her Oka suit, so much that Shinji couldn't help to look from when to when this... Until the red hared little goddess interrupted this pattern by finally speaking, scaring Shinji to death at the same time. Asuka: - What are you thinking about, Shinji kun ? - Shinji: - [ Gulping ] W-w-h-why, do you ask that for ? - Asuka: - Oh, just being curious... Ferchriss sake Shinji, what's the matter with you ? - Shinji: - N-n-n-nothing, just nevermind me... [ Thinking ] Gee, she must be awfully distracted. - Asuka: - Haven't you asked yourself how may those three idiots may be doing on their training fields ? - Shinji: - Idiots ? Nande ? - Asuka: - [ Smiling slightly ] You know, Ichiro kun and the other two dorks you have as friends. - Shinji: - [ With cracked lips ] Well... I believe their advance is as good as ours, don't you think the SAME way ? - Asuka: - " Ours " is a premeditated way. I, in particular define my progress as unique between any other. - Shinji: - [ Face faulting, thinking ] If Ichiro san comes back, the first thing he'll find will be an arm wrestling match and not a hug. - Asuka: - [ Sighing and looking up ] But besides that, I wonder how the others may be doing. - Shinji: - Others ? Nande ? - Asuka: - [ Frowning ] You know ? That phrase's beginning to sound a bit repetitive from you, Shinji kun. I'm talking about our friends on Earth. - Shinji: - [ Rubbing back of head ] Ah, of course. - Asuka: - Misato san who was understanding herself with that Shingo we saw her with before leaving, or Ritsuko sama who survived with the help of that magical knight who helped us both during the fight against the eva mass production models. Getting shot can be traumatizing, I believe. - Shinji: - [ Frowning a little ] You don't really have to say that to... - Asuka: - [ Ignoring Shinji ] You know ? At first I would have found impossible to believe that Ranma Saotome and his friends saved us originally from a terror greater than angels, Kilma I believe they all called it... [ Chuckling ] Hah, and we thought for a moment that we were fighting the " big fight ". - Shinji: - Well, maybe we were if considering that the third impact would have united the alliance of the so mentioned dark lords. - Asuka: - I can't wait to see that faces of everyone when they see us back. Hyuga, Maya and Shigeru are not going to believe it, but as always I believe you're way too reserved to make any comments about your own development... [ Sighing ] You haven't changed in that aspect that much since we met, remember ? - Shinji: - [ With little eyes ] I, I believe I still conserve pictures in my mind of that emotional moment. - Asuka: - Awww, I gave up on you long time ago. Seems like that little coward Shinji will still remain deep within yourself. But as long as you fight well, you can consider yourself, act or be whatever you feel better to. - Shinji lowered to angle of his sight to the grass, understanding in certain way she was right and answering coldly: " Right ". Asuka pretended to ignore Shinji's attitude, reclining even more her head against the grass, smiling. Asuka: - But you know ? I guess you have your reasons to be the way you are and I'm not exactly enough to say crap about you... Although you'd be likable enough with a few slight changes... - Shinji: - [ Blinking ] Huh ? - Asuka: - What I mean to say Shinji is: Arigato. For everything you've done not just for me and wonder girl, but for everyone else... I hate to say it, but I owe you many things, including my very life. Congratulations, you have been the hero of many days... [ Smirking ] Though, I'm planning to put that into an end. - Shinji: - [ Openmouthed ] Asuka, er, I don't kno... - Asuka: - Now, have in mind that this is the first and only time you'll hear me saying such things. Plus, if you tell this to anyone, I'll deny it first and then I'll skin you alive in private. - Shinji: - [ Ascending slight smile ] Hai, of course. - Both kids paused their conversation for a while, just to meditate during a minute by themselves how different had things become. When was Shinji ever going to hear from Asuka gratitude as the pilot of eva unit 2 ?? The closest thing to this was the occasions on which she remarked she was even with someone. Shinji understood with this that the size of her iron curtain was not important, Langley chan was very warm and noble behind her selfish and egocentric mask. On the other hand, Asuka admired Shinji as much as she admired Ichiro; and now even more with the fact that Farfán kun was the improvised and destined pilot of Galent Rukdo. The truth is that if Ichiro wouldn't have confessed his love the way he did to Asuka... But under this circumstances, can anything like " a couple meant to be together " be valid ? Unfortunately, given the small fact that Shinji never had the dare to say at least a thing, how was Asuka going think about this dilemma in particular ? Though, despising all the things she ignored about, her respect and admiration for Shinji was overwhelming... Of course, far behind that mask. Shinji loved Asuka but she ignored it completely, period. For no apparent reason, both pilots rose their heads worried in unison, hearing from the roses of that garden with an echoing effect: " lord Terbiam don't, don't ". Then, Rei appeared in front of both in a teleporting effect with a worried expression too. Understanding the preoccupation of this feeling, Asuka and Shinji nodded to Rei seriously and decided to guide themselves to the place where this feeling was coming from. Back at Irvank kingdom, the vision of lord Terbiam falling to the ground, with his eyes out of its orbits and the neck apparently twisted fills the screen with terror. In front of Terbiam, only a shadowing figure with its fist outside along with another two figures of its kind, watch the young liege moving his extremities with difficulty. The main figure gives a step to the front and reveals his face just to let everyone know he was the best dark fighter of all times: Stell Srima. Stell: - Although you acquired all the wisdom from former Oka warriors to be an Ikuoka sensei, to raise your fists against the dark ruler of Justo region is the most foolish action of all. Are you for real Axiaco Terbiam ? - Terbiam disappears, almost as taken away by a lightening breeze, as Stell and the other knights with him smirk. Stell: - Holy chosen, only your nerve is far behind your speed. - In a teleporting effect, Shinji appears at Stell's right side in an attacking position and so Asuka and Rei with the other knights. The country field they were on began to crumble, as the camera shows from the view a near hill offers. The different fighting techniques provoke all Feirkallak to rumble, taking out from all its fantastic inhabitants a pre-apocalyptic fear. Getting close where the actions occur, Shinji, Asuka and Rei, are contending a light speed battle against the dark knights, who seem to be handling it well by just dodging, blocking, jumping and flying. After three minutes of intense combat, we see evas and dark projections appearing in front of each other at the same time, just like if this move was already programmed in the middle of the sky. Zomo by himself, stands bravely in on top of the mentioned hill charging on his arms the body of lord Terbiam. In a curative maneuver, Zomo twists back manually with his bare hands the neck of the young ruler. Unfortunately for both, this just saves the nervous and motor system of Terbiam, not eliminating the rest of his pain after receiving the fist of Stell Srima. The old dwarf stands firmly then, putting Terbiam to sleep by touching certain part of his cerebellum and then contemplating in the sky the few he could distinguish of the battle. In a single hit which makes Feirkallak shake even more, three bodies are seen in slow motion falling like meteors over another hill, reducing it after crashing, into a pile of rocks. The evangelions are the ones getting out of this crash; and before re-engaging into battle, Stell's projection stops them by saying: " For now, your might would impress me more by your reason capabilities than for your fighting skills... Shall we discuss this as our normal selves ? " Completely unaware of the message, unit 2 tries to advance where Stell's projection is to take it out, not before eva 1 grabs it with a hold and forces it to get inside its owner along with evas 1 and 0. The dark projection follow the action as then we visualize on the ground the dark knights and the eva pilots in front of each other. Shinji releases Asuka from the hold and she just slaps him hard on his left cheek without saying a thing. Shinji's cheek begins to bleed, but he shows emotionless for the action. Helping her friends in not remaining silent and upset with each other, Rei steppes forward to the knights saying as calm as she could, even after viewing Terbiam's state while rescued. Rei: - Terbiam was not worth of it, even a dark knight can understand that. You are them, aren't you ? - Stell: - Stell Srima, dark ruler of Justo. These are Oig No of Nagi and Ceoll Ratba of Egas. - Oig: - And with that kind of judgment you must know nothing about us. If so, I would strongly recommend you not to speak about what you do not have knowledge on. - Rei: - [ Serious ] You're evil, there's nothing else I should be aware on. From anxiety, my desire to meet you have turned into disgust. - Ceoll: - [ Smirking ] You are very welcome. - Asuka: - The hell with it, you sons of bitches !! I don't care who you are or why you did it... I SWEAR I RIP YOUR HEADS OFF FOR WHAT YOU DID TO TERB KUN !!! - Shinji: - Asuka, shut up !! - Asuka looked at Shinji with rage, but did as she was " requested ". Later, Shinji gave ten steps forward remaining just one meter of distance from Stell, forced to rise his neck to a six feet tall being ( Kind of a Cell-Goku first encounter ). Shinji: - [ Coldly ] What do you want ? - Stell: - Destined to be the successor of Ranma Saotome, you have certainly overpassed the skills of the one before you. - Shinji: - What do you want !? - Oig: - To contend a duel of course. - Asuka: - Then why the fuck did we stop !!? - Ceoll: - Well wild-spirited young lady, that was seen in combat. You cannot contend yet a decent encounter against us. - Oig: - Which means nothing to the two of us, as a matter of fact you would be dead by now without the high sense of honor Stell has. - Rei: - Will you only fight against someone on your level ? - Stell: - [ Nodding ] Your sense of perception amazes me I must say. Indeed, what I have seen forfeits this duel for the time beign... However, by the end of the next month you must increase even more this level. - Oig: - If you do not, concessions will be not in destroying what generations of Okas sacrificed to protect. - Ceoll: - The reign of Feirkallak. - Asuka: - You great piece of... - Rei: - Asuka... - Asuka: - WAIT A SECOND, LET ME FINISH !!! ... [ To Stell ] If a month's what you want then that's what you'll have, but not for considering myself unable to tear you apart right now. I'm actually just respecting the decision of my idiotic comrades. But listen, if anything worst happens to Terb kun, prepare to have your faces rolling down that hill, understood ? - Stell: - [ To Shinji ] Luck is with you young man, an ally as her is most unusual to find. - Shinji: - Very well, by the end of the next month we'll be expecting the three of you, prepared to stand your so wanted challenge... If there's nothing else free Feirkallak from your so undesired presence. - Ceoll: - [ Frowning ] You have got some mouth with you, hempc... - Stell: - [ Chuckling ] No, let him say what he thinks, what he feels... We shall feed ourselves later with those emotions. - Stell and his brother knights disappeared in a dark flash. As soon as this happened, Asuka kneeled to the floor vomiting blood. Rei and Shinji assisted their pilot fella. Asuka: - [ Smiling weakly ] Heh, the bastards are sure strong, that Oig got me well... At, at least I didn't gave them the chance to see how the hit turned out. - Shinji knocked Asuka out by placing his hand on her forehead. Rei looked at Shinji with an uncertain expression as Shinji blinks with his sight to the floor. Rei: - Terb kun was hurt badly, but he will not die... Shinji kun, what are we going to do ? - Shinji: - We'll keep our word Rei chan. For the time being that's what we'll do. This is one thing I don't plan to die before accomplishing, for Terbiam, for Asuka... And for everything I hold sacred. If there's a moment to be brave, this is the one. - Rei nods after conceiving the amount of bravery behind Shinji's words, not pushed by the circumstances, but simply spoken by own initiative for the very first time on his life. The scene fades in a black curtain. --------------- { Music cue: " Greedy fly " Bush }. Kidorah, the 15th and last planet on the solar system where Feirkallak is. Darker and colder if compared with Pluto, these " inconveniences " mean nothing to evangelions 1, 2 and 3 who stand firmly at the view of that far solar system's sun. In their small facets, Shinji, Asuka and Rei abandon their childhood for a while and aboard memories of the days after the challenge set by the dark knights. Dividing the scene in three, the first head focused is Shinji's, as the flashback of one of his memories is appointed with gray and darkish colors. The three eva pilots wearing their Oka suits look at Terbiam on a coma state on his bed at the Revank castle along with his mother at the other side of the bed. Shinji: - [ Sweating worried ] We have done all in our hands to take Terb kun out of his coma. Even though he's alright, his consciousness seems to be somewhere else... I'm very sorry your majesty. - Asuka: - Seems like that bastard's was more than a simple hit, but don't worry queen Beta we'll bring Terb kun back and make those leeches pay for all they've done. - The blonde and glorious queen Beta touched gently Terbiam's forehead for a last time and stood up smiling hopefully to the eva children, who found this attitude as the most unexpected one. Beta: - Hai Langley san, I know that better than anyone... Terb knew since the first time he met you all that you were capable of overcoming any challenge at all. You are all good and extraordinary children, in all aspects known in any universe at all... Specially you Rei chan, my son appreciates you very know. You know that don't you ? - Rei: - [ Blushing slightly, face down ] Hai, I know. - Beta: - I know you will have a lot to talk about when this finishes... As a matter of fact you all will. Terb cares for you as much as you do for him. - Asuka: - Queen Beta... - Beta: - I have trust that whatever you consider right will be the best for him and this kingdom his father left him to govern fairly and with wisdom. - Shinji: - Your highness... Your heart's desire is our command. - The scene stops and moves back to the present, as Shinji sighs and acquires back a serious posture. Asuka for either overconfidence or pride had with her a kind of intimidating smirk, as the camera focus the deepest part of her left pupil, showing us one of her strongest memories. The place is the sixth moon of Feirkallak, where Asuka is training by herself against three of her own reflections ( Reminds you someone ? ), falling after a quick sequence of attacks by the hit of the third eva 2. Inside her cabin Asuka grunts. Sweaty, bruised, and obviously completely out of her, Asuka sheds a tear of impotence thinking about the time she has left before the day of her fulfillment arrives. Alone and far from her other eva comrades ( Who were training on other moons that day ), Asuka inquires in a criticized action by her when seen in others... A monologue. Asuka: - Why, why can't I be better ? Why can't I be better ? [ Moaning ] God, help me ! I know what and how I've been with others, but please give me what I deserve after this. If we lose, then so Terb kun and queen Beta and... All Feirkallak. - Asuka cries in frustration just for ten seconds and then takes a look at her Oka suit watching the transparent images of Misato, Ritsuko, Hikari, Kaji, her mother and Ichiro. The red hared German-Japanese wild spirited young woman wipes the tears out of her cheeks and wonders again. Asuka: - [ In german ] < No, I will never lose. No matter what those creeps may say or that idiot Shinji, I will never lose. I know you're doing your part Ichiro, so like hell I'm getting far behind you. [ Smirking ] Like I've said about that stupid Shinji, wonder girl and you Mr. know-it-all: " You're all good. Yet, I'm just too much above your league. " Those dark creeps will get it. Oh yeah, I swear they'll get it. >- The sequence stops as eva two gets up and knocks out its three reflections, in a single attack wave. Back to the present time, Asuka merely increases the fear her now evil smirk provokes for her memory. Rei, emotionless like in her old times as a cloned unnatural being, gets also a glimpse at her memories, after remembering one midnight naked at a lake in Urvank ( The third kingdom ) while being unable to sleep, thinking about Terbiam's fate. As the water depth rises by her will, covering her breasts and neck, almost touching the end of her kind-of long hair, Rei remembers how good and gentle commander Ikari used to be with her over his firstborn. Following this, how Ichiro advised her to learn from all the living things the enjoyment of life, despising the fact of being cloned with Yui Ikari's cells. In a last and silent flashback, she remembers the night Ikki told her she was already a human being and also the opinion of Terbiam on how glorious she was even as a clone. Rei says before the water can cover her head: " Whatever happens, thanks to you all, I will always know who I was and who I am ". Back to the present time, Rei breaks her lack of emotion for a slight smile only able to see by being close enough to her face. The three evas look from behind considerably stronger and resistant from the way they used to be. Conceiving for a moment that their speed and strength was increased after their desperate time for training, the eva pilots acknowledged that the less they could do was to trust on their own abilities. However, their final appreciation of their possibilities was only going to be able through a confrontation... And as a strange and uncommon cold breeze touches the back of the evas, these disappear in a faster-than-light speed effect, the small dead planet shakes with a terrible and unexplainable rumble. The evas reacted wisely to the suppressive attack from behind by the dark projections at a great speed. Lines begin shaping rings around the planet, as the fighters move around it while fighting. In " hand to hand " fights, this duel was out of all precedents, it was something never seen by the universe since its creation. However, this was just too much for the planet to handle and in a determined moment as the power of the hits are increased, without preludes or anticipated reactions, Kidorah explodes into zillions of pieces. This doesn't stop the titans on both bands, as they keep on fighting until reaching another inhabited planet on other solar system... Which ends the same way; and so does a third and a fourth. Ending this pattern, the evas like the projections rise high and destroy comets, asteroids, and other kinds of celestial bodies on their ascension, until a dazzling flash stops the scene, allowing us to see a very disappointing scene. Trapped inside a psiqick ring, formed by the combined efforts of the dark knights the evas suffer a crushing effect by that tortuous ring. Elements of both bands were deeply bruised as wounded, however, with this last maneuver by the dark knights, differences were finally going to be established between both bands. Stell's voice: - And you managed to grow in power during the allowed time. Also adding this to my remark, Ranma Saotome will surely cry, not for your deaths in essence but instead by hearing the cruelty of this technique never seen or heard by anyone. Suffer along with the consequences of the " Fai Kaum ". - ( Note: " Fai Kaum ", the grief of the soul ). As the ring stretched to the evas, the Ikos of the children were being crushed... But the pain was not at all for the pressure of disgrace circle. The ring in question was nothing but the introduction of altered pasts and presents inside the minds of the evangelion pilots. Fastworwarded scenes of Yui Ikari fornicating with many men, Gendou Ikari kissing Fuyutsuki, Ichiro making love with Misato, Kaji suiciding by shooting himself, Shinji mucking Rei to death for being cloned and Terbiam hitting Ayanmi san with an indiscriminate punch. At the same time, they were also murders of many, racists, nutcases, corpses and also even... Devils. The visions were many to be put and described in a single chapter of this story. Not expressing any sign of pain at all, or moan, or unconformity, their eyes were completely out of its orbits and their mouths totally open while drooling sickly. One step away from death, the minds of the pilots unfortunately get too much degrading material to handle at once and disappear. This action makes Stell open his eyes in terror and in slow motion, the ring breaks, storing its edged remains inside the dark knights. As the dark knights resent the pain of the encrusted pieces, they don't even get the time to notice the incoming attack of three deformed and rageful evangelions who simply deliver millions of different attacks to the dark projections, breaking them little by little until these explode, disintegrating also the dark knights... Not giving these time to even meditate what the heck had happened. Deformed teeth, missing pieces of machinery and optical cavities glowing deep crimson. These are just few of the most notorious aspects the evas had after going unintentionally berserk due to this technique which was supposed to kill their brains, breaking with this the Ikonic connection and destroying them. A last roar is heard in all space after emitted by the berserk evas... Before going into sleep once again after an almost bizarre change of power. The scene fades in a black curtain. --------------- { Music cue: " Sleep to dream " Fionna Apple }. A missed scene for quite a long time, the wagon of an empty subway going nowhere. Home of those who love to be gone in millions of thoughts before deliberating a judgment. Shinji, Asuka and Rei are seated together in a single wide seat, either looking at the window or looking at the front. Asuka decides to break this silence by asking in a ( bizarre ) calmed way to Shinji: " You think we're on our way to heaven ? " Shinji sighs and looks outside the window to and endless way of mountains and hills. Shinji: - If so, are you ready for it ? - Asuka: - Of course not, I, I, I... [ Blinking ] I don't know what to think anymore lately. - Rei: - At least we did it. I am certain, the dark knights do not exist anymore. - Shinji: - Then, was ours a sacrifice ? - Rei: - I believe that is all up to us. Although this may look and seem like the road to every being's final destiny, I don't feel it that way... Or do you, Shinji kun ? - Shinji: - ... No, I don't. But if it's not, what is it then ? - Asuka: - I believe that... I believe that we have no other choice but jumping out in order to find out the truth. - Rei: - [ Nodding ] Either that, or just think for a moment that... That we are not here. - Asuka: - But we are, aren't we? Is this a dream ? - Shinji: - If that's what it is, then at least we're on it together, as it has been before and will always be. - Rei: - [ Smiling slightly ] Let us not fail Terb kun in our promise to return safely to him, shall we ? - Asuka: - Of course, a promise is a promise, right ? - Shinji: - [ Nodding ] Let's go back for a friend then. - The eva pilots smile to each other with hopeful smiles and place their hands together on a small circle, until a flash covers the whole interior of the subway wagon. A trio of Oka suits get then firmly shaped inside the cabins of the three evas as the bodies of children occupy again the land of the living... This without any LCL disturbing liquid. To their surprise they find themselves in the middle of country yard on Revank kingdom. Not being this enough, Oka 17 is in front of them. The voice of Terbiam below makes them smile in joy and teleport where the origin of this is. On the ground, we see Rei running towards Terbiam as she then holds him tightly after reaching him. Asuka and Shinji remain at a distance smiling helplessly after viewing that their friend and and responsible of teaching them most part of their actual knowledge was alright now. Rei and Terbiam Separate from the hold and the young prince look at the other eva pilots, smiling as glad as them. Terbiam: - Your bodies handled to go berserk with all your present power without getting destroyed. My, you are the holy knights destined to... - Asuka: - [ Still smiling and shedding a tear ] Shut up, just shut up... We did all this for you and you're fine now. That's all what matters. - Rei: - When did you got better, Terb kun ? - Terbiam: - Exactly one week ago, Rei chan. [ To Shinji ] Which happens to be as well the lapse of time that has passed since you destroyed the dark knights. - Shinji: - You brought us back ? - Terbiam: - [ Nodding ] Uh-huh, okaasan and I to be precise. We also repaired the aspects of the evas, as you can see. - Rei: - [ Hugging Terbiam again ] But you're alright now, safe. - Terbiam: - I wasn't actually planning to give up on you that easy, Rei chan. - Rei: - And I thank you for that Terb kun. - Not being able to contain the passion and happiness inside her, Rei released at once all the emotions inside her as never before. She held Terbiam's face gently as the young prince allowed himself to be guided to those lips in authentic beauty. Contemplating the kiss, Asuka and Shinji did nothing but smile for seeing finally Rei fulfilled as a human. Asuka: - When things like this happen, I can't help at all to remember how much we've changed, in what we've become. - Shinji: - [ Smiling ] No Asuka, I believe we haven't changed at all. Not at all. - Disengaging from the short kiss, Terbiam smiles again to Asuka and Shinji, giving the impression that he was not done with the good news... Not just yet. Terbiam: - Ryu san was here three days ago by the way. He told me that as soon as you could be available, you were to receive this... - Asuka: - Receive what ? - Terbiam snapped the fingers for his right hand and then the presence of an unbelievable strength behind them made the pilots of units 1 and 2 turn in unison. That surprise was no match to the one they got after viewing what was the origin of this. Rei also couldn't help to remain astonished for such vision. Terbiam: - The last thing he said before leaving was: " New breed might be synonym in a not so distant future of new might, indeed ". - The scene freezes with the faces of our friends looking at the shine of that power on their evas, not before a legend in Kanji takes over the screen. " Disgraces on our lives are in essence the only valid tests in a road to the greatest treasure of all... Happiness. Our hearts will only conceive such emotion after tasting for a while what meant to have adverse goals on our ways to what we considered for a moment unique, but was not. For there's not a better life, but life only. " End of chapter twelve.