Chapter11


	Episode Eleven: The value of a miricle is/The new frontier. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Flashback: 2000 AD.) (From the distant moon, Earth looks as peaceful as ever....until suddenly, a bright flash can be seen on the very bottom.) (At the epicentre of the flash, a huge explosion has occured, and pieces of buildings and other equipment lay strewn everywhere. Through the dim, murky haze, a lone man walks, carrying a young girl in his arms. Slowly, painfully, and groaning in pain, he manages to reach a small cryo-pod sitting in an already badly damaged hanger. Nearby, several other shattered pods lie, their forms already destroyed by falling girders. Finally, the man manages to put the girl into the pod, taking one last look at her. A drop of blood falls from his face, landing on hers, and with a groan, she opens her eyes to look at him.) Girl: Is that you, dad? (Her words are cut off as the pod’s door closes, sealing the girl safely inside. His final deed accomplished, the man collapses groaning on the pod. Suddenly, a bright flash goes off, more powerful than a thousand N2 Mines, and with an immense BOOM, two pairs of ghostly wings rise from the centre of the blast, along with a hideous, inhuman scream. As the blast spreads outwards, it engulfs the southern ice cap, instantly melting it. The wings spread high into the air, able to be seen from space....) (Back on the now churning waters, the pod’s door opens again. The young girl stands, clutching a horrendous wound at her side. As she looks up, she can see the huge wings reaching into the sky, and the screams terrify her. The last thing we see before the scene ends is a small cross on a chain hanging around the girl’s neck.....) ------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------- ------------------------- (Present Day, 2015 AD.) (With a sigh, Misato does up her bra, observing herself in the mirror. A troubled look rests upon her normally pleasent features, indicating that she has seen more in her life than she should have. Upon the table, beside a makeup kit, we can see a small white cross on a chain.) (Outside, in Matt’s apartment.) Touji: Thank’s for letting us in, Shinji. That rainstorm came out of nowhere. Kenske: So, where’s Misato and Matt? Shinji: Uhh, they’ve been working back at headquaters pretty late this week, so they’re stiil asleep I guess. (The boys stand in Matt’s lounge, drying their hair with towels Shinji has brought in for them. The towels are all black, with a small monogram at the bottom of each (the monogram is S.I.). Touji: Well, I guess we better be quiet then. Shinji: Well, Misato sleeps like a rock usually, so you won’t wake her. Matt’s a pretty heavy sleeper too- (He is quickly silenced by the two boys, who shush him. Suddenly, a voice makes them all cringe.) Asuka: Hey!! What are these creeps doing in here?!! (As Touji and Kenske shush Asuka, Shinji explains.) Shinji: Uhh...drying themselves... Asuka: (loudly) Oh, sure. Talk about lame excuses! Well I’m changing in here. And if you peep, you’re dead!! (As Asuka steps back into Misato’s apartment, Touji throws the towel down in disgust.) Touji: Rrrrr, you stuck up, egotistical little....who wants to watch a snake change it’s skin, anyway?!!! Kenske: She’s sure full of herself.... (Suddenly, Matt’s bedroom door opens, and out walks a haggard looking Matt wearing a black t-shirt with the words “Coopers Pale Ale” on one side, and “Griffon’s Head Hotel” on the other, and black track suit pants. Rubbing his eyes, he walks into the loungeroom.) Shinji: Good Morning, Matt....er....we didn’t wake you, did we? (Matt stumbles up to the couch, and manages a smile.) Matt: Na. (-and proceeds to collapse on the couch with a thump.) Shinji: I guess we can take that as a yes.... Matt: (groaning) No, Shinji.....I just didn’t sleep so well last night.....too much work to do on the Black Templar.... (Misato walks into the room from her flat as the song “Febuary Stars” by the Foo Fighters comes out of Matt’s stereo.) Touji: Misato! Did we wake you up?! Misato: Actually, I was already awake. But thanks for asking. Err...what’s wrong with you, Matt? Matt: uuuunnnnnnngghhhh......don’t ask......... Misato: You feeling okay? Matt: No, I got a pain in my chest that hasn’t quit since the last Angel encounter, and I didn’t get any sleep last night at all.... Misato: Sounds like you need to roster off for a while... Matt: No can do. I got too much to do on the Black Templar. Having all of those EVA’s fall on it last week really screwed something inside it..... (Misato looks at Matt, concerned for a moment, before turning to Shinji.) Misato: Shinji, don’t forget we’re having a synch ratio test later this afternoon. Shinji: Yeah, I know. Misato: Hey Asuka, did you hear that? Asuka: (muffled) Yes Ma’am. (Suddenly, Kenske notices something on Misato’s jacket collar that was not there before.) Kenske: (bowing) Wow!! Congratualions on your promotion, Misato!! Touji: (bowing with Kenske) Yeah, congratulations! Misato: You’re too kind. Matt: Way to go, Misato. Kenske: No ma’am! You deserved it! (Misato looks down at Matt again, before speaking.) Misato: Matt, I’m going to work, and rostering you off for the day. You’re in no position to work. (Matt stands, hiding his exhaustion.) Matt: Bullshit. I can work. I’m an Aus-AARGH!! (He doubles over, clutching his chest. Misato follows him down, wondering what’s wrong.) Misato: What?! Matt: I dunno! Something in my chest.....must have got some neural feedback from the Black Templar when the other EVA’s landed on it...feels like I’ve cracked a rib or two.... (Misato stands, shaking her head.) Misato: You are mad. Look, I’m rostering you off for the day. When you feel well enough, come into work, and Ritsuko can have a look at you. (Matt grunts, sitting back down on the couch.) Matt: Yeah, guess you’re right....sorry, guys, you’ll have to get into school on your own today. Shinji: It’s okay, Matt. We’ll be right. (Misato heads out the door.) Misato: Well, I’m off. Bye. Kenske/Touji: Have fun! See ya!! (As the door closes, Shinji looks at them strangely.) Shinji: So, what’s happened to Misato? Kenske: You mean you didn’t see her new badge? Two stripes means she’s been promoted to Major! (Asuka leans into the room, drying her hair.) Asuka: Promoted? I didn’t notice.... Shinji: Yeah, me neither.. (Kenske and Touji look horrified as Matt stands again.) Touji: Neither of you noticed?! What a bunch of lame-o’s! Kenske: Haven’t you got any respect for that poor, hard working woman? Matt: Jeez, I figured you’d already congratulated her, or something... Touji: I guess it’s a good thing that some of us still have some human compassion.... Kenske: We should have a party for her! To celebrate her promotion, I mean! Touji: Yeah! That’d be cool! Matt: Heh, good idea, Kenske. Let’s do it. Tonight would be good. Think you can manage it? Kenske: Me? Sure, I can set it up good! Shinji: We better not let Misato know. Asuka: Yeah, make it a surprise party! Matt: Even better. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------- ----------------------- (Later that morning, in a hospital room, Matt puts his shirt back on, having just completed an x-ray. Ritsuko enters holding an x-ray photo up.) Ritsuko: Well, Matt. No wonder you’ve been in a bit of pain as of late. These x-rays show that you were right. You cracked three ribs the other day. Matt: Figures. Must have happened in the shaft, catching the other EVAs. The Titan-Mech’s had some sort of servo problem since then. I’ll have to check it’s interior. Ritsuko: You’ll have to rest, is what you’ll have to do. Those ribs won’t heal if you keep crawling around on the Black Templar. Get some time off, Matt. (Matt stretches, wincing slightly.) Matt: I don’t have the time, Ritsuko. If I leave it in it’s current condition, just what are we supposed to do when the next Angel gets here? Ritsuko: Let the others take care of it. Matt: My conscience won’t let me do that. I have to be out there, taking the hits. Period. By the way, are you coming over tonight? Ritsuko: Coming over? Why? Matt: Oh, yeah, no one’s told you. We’re having a little celebration for Misato’s promotion. Only a few people are coming, so come on down, and we’ll have a good time. (Ritsuko considers for a moment before answering.) Ritsuko: Sure, I’d love to. Matt: Cool. Say, six or seven? Ritsuko: Okay. See you then. (With that, Matt leaves the room.) ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------ ------------------------- (Later that afternoon, a harmonics test is in progress. In order, Rei Ayanami, Shinji Ikari, and Asuka Langley Soryu sit in their entry-plugs, eyes closed, relaxed. As their synch levels are measured by computer, Ritsuko Akagi, Maya Ibuki, Misato Katsuragi and Matt Eklom stand in the control box, observing.) Maya: Unit’s 00 and 02 have reached the mental contamination borderline. They’ve reached their limit. Ritsuko: Unit 01 can still tolerate a little more though, can’t he? Lower the graph depth another 0.3. (With a low hum, Shinji’s entry plug is lowered in it’s entry plug. On the screen, his final synch scores show up.) Maya: Shinji’s at his limit. Ritsuko: And he’s still giving these readings? He’s just wonderful. Maya: Yes. His synch ratio is rapidly catching up with Asuka’s. Tech: It’s as if he was born to become an EVA pilot... (Suddenly, Misato talks more to herself, but the others listen.) Misato: But that’s not what Shinji wants. I know he’s not happy here. Matt: But he’s just too conciliatory to do otherwise.....I guess it’s his way to just obey orders as he gets them...... (Outside, the three entry plugs are opened, and the pilots released from the test.) Maya: The test has been completed. (A short time later, the three EVA pilots stand in the control box, with Ritsuko debriefing them.) Ritsuko: That was excellent work, Shinji. Shinji: What do you mean? Ritsuko: Your synch ratio has improved by 8 points. That’s very good. Asuka: (smugly) But it’s still fifty points below mine. Ritsuko: True, but eight points in ten days is amazing. Asuka: (annoyed) I don’t think it’s so great!! Okay, Third Child. Enjoy your victory while you can. (Shinji grins, slightly embarrased.) Asuka: I’ll see you when you get home, jerk-face. (Asuka storms from the box.) Matt: sigh I don’t know what her problem is..... Shinji: ..... Matt: Well, we might as well head off. Did you want a ride home, Rei? Rei: .....yes. Matt: No problem. (However, as Matt goes to leave, Ritsuko stops him.) Ritsuko: I’d be very appreciative if you went through a synchro test. (Matt takes a disk from his coat, and hands it to Ritsuko.) Matt: Command figured you’d want to know that. Here, this disk should tell you everything you need to know. See you tonight. (As Matt, Shinji, and Rei leave the room, Ritsuko inserts the disk into a terminal as Maya brings the disk up on the screen. After a few keystrokes, the information they require is displayed, alongside a wave-length image. Ritsuko leans forwards over Maya’s shoulder, staring at the screen.) Ritsuko: What the- 200%?!!!! That’s impossible!!!! Maya: His synchronisation levels with the Black Templar are perfect. He can operate the Titan Mech like he’d wear a pair of clothes.... Ritsuko: But that isn’t possible by normal means! Tech: .... ------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------ (A while later, after Rei has been dropped back at home....a lone black Jaguar drives along the road at high speed. Inside, Misato, Shinji, Asuka and Matt sit, Matt actually allowing Misato to drive for a change.) Matt: Man, you drive as crazy as I do, Misato. Misato: Not quite. Where did you learn to drive like that, anyway? Matt: Actually, I learned how to drive like this after the Second Impact. When I got into the service, a friend of mine taught me everything about learning to drive safely in any conditions. It was fun, but it also hurt like hell. I don’t know how many cars we wrecked before I started getting better at it. Misato: I guess you’re lucky you’re still here. Matt: Hmm. (Suddenly, from the back, Shinji speaks.) Shinji: Oh, it’s great to hear about your promotion, Misato. Misato: Thank’s Shinji, but to tell you the truth, I’m not that happy about it. (Shinji is about to say something else when he suddenly remembers Asuka is nearby...he goes silent again.) ------------------------------------------------------------ ----------------------------------------------- -------------------------- (A short time later, in Matt’s apartment. A sign can be seen hanging on the door. It reads (in japenese) “Private Fuction. Admission by Invitation only.”) All but Misato: Congratulations!!! Misato: (clinking drinks with everyone) Thanks you guys. And thank you, Touji. Touji: No no, this was Kenske’s idea. (With this, Kenske stands to attention.) Kenske: That’s right! I, Kenske Aida, am the mastermind behind this dinner! Misato: Oh, well thank you Mister Aida! Kenske: Oh it was no problem, really. It was no big deal. (Touji turns an angry glare on Asuka’s new friend, Hikari Horaki.) Touji: Hey! Just what is Hikari doing here, anyway? Asuka: I invited her, Dumkoph!! (The two girls look at one another, smiling.) Asuka/Hikari: Ya!! Misato: Did you invite Rei too? Asuka: Well, we invited her, but she’s not exactly the party type, you know? Darn, why is Kagi so late? Hikari: Kagi? You mean that really cool looking guy who never shaves? Asuka: Yeah. After hanging around these dorks all day, it’s good to know what a real man feels like. (Matt sits up, staring at Asuka.) Matt: You mean you actually invited that scumbag? (Asuka stares back, not comprehending.) Asuka: Well....yeah... (Matt shakes his head in defeat.) Matt: Just when I thought the evening was really going well, too. (Misato looks over at Matt, shaking her head.) Misato: Hey, now you behave yourself. Matt: Don’t worry, I won’t say or do anything. But I won’t be held accountable if he insults me in my own home. If he does, he gets the bum’s rush. Period. Misato: Agreed. Now, I’m out of beer again, so get me another. (Matt laughs, saluting Misato as he gets off the couch.) Matt: Yes sir! (Suddenly, Asuka and Touji start an argument between themselves, Kenske and Hikari, leaving Shinji and Misato to one side.) Misato: So, kiddo. Still have difficulty relating in these sorts of....situations? Shinji: I’m okay. I just don’t understand why they fight like that. (As the two eatch the fight continue on, Shinji utters to himself.) Shinji: Why do they have to be so...noisy? (A silence ensues between the two of them, before finally, Shinji continues.) Shinji: Uhh....your promotion...that must mean that someone high up must be taking notice of the good work you do. Misato: Well, yeah. But that’s not why I do what I do. Shinji: So, why did you join NERV in the first place? Misato: Oh, I don’t know. It’s been a long time since I signed up, you know. Shinji: Hmm... (Suddenly, the doorbell rings as Matt walks in. To everyone’s surprise, instead of a normal chime like Misato’s, the doorbell sings.) Doorbell: You keep on knockin’, but you can’t come in! You keep on knockin’ but you can’t come in! (As everyone turns to Matt, who is walking towards the door, he laughs.) Matt: (quietly) I think I might change that. (As he opens the door, he grins warmly at Ritsuko....and glares at Kagi.) Ritsuko: Hi Matt. Thought we’d drop by together. Matt: G’day. Glad you could come. (Ritsuko passes through, but Kagi is not so eager, until Matt steps to the side, and beckons.) Matt: So, you gonna stand out there like a spare dick at a wedding, or are you gonna come in? I won’t bite, I swear. Please. Mi casa e su casa. (Kagi grins, and steps through. Matt follows behind the two as the door shuts, and then proceeds back into his kitchen as the new guests settle in.) Matt: I’m getting a few refreshments. Anyone else want one besides Misato? Kagi: Sure, I’ll take one. Ritsuko: Of course. Shinji: Uh, sure. Asuka: Two more!! Kenske: Yeah, thanks. Touji: A beer would be nice. Matt: Nice try Touji. Misato, incoming. (As he shouts this, suddenly, a beer can comes flying out of the kitchen. Lifting one hand in the air, Misato catches it easily, and opens it. As the others stare, shocked, she grins.) Misato: What? (Matt is less active with the others, bringing them in with him. Kagi bows to Misato, along with Ritsuko.) Kagi: I’d like to give you my sincerest regards, Major Katsuragi. I suppose I’ll have to be polite to you now. Misato: (behind her beer) And just what does that mean? Kagi: Well, Commanders Ikari and Fujutsuki have never left Japan before at the same time. I guess they must really feel ol’ Katsuragi’s dependable. (At the mention of his father, Shinji looks up.) Shinji: My father’s left Japan again? Ritsuko: That’s right, Shinji. He’s at the South Pole. -------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------- --------------------------------- (Much later that night, Matt drives his Jaguar again, this time taking Shinji and Asuka’s friends home. Hikari sits in the front seat, Touji and Kenske sit in the back seat. The song “Totally Addicted to Bass” (Artist unknown) plays loudly in the background.) Touji: Where’d you come up with this stuff, Matt? Matt: It’s all pre-Second Impact stuff. I’m no fan of post-Second Impact stuff.....just never took my fancy, really. My collection just never got damaged or lost in the disaster. Like it, eh? Touji: It totally rocks! (Matt laughs, throwing the car into another corner.) Hikari: Uhh, Mister Eklom? Are you sober enough to drive? No offence. Matt: Don’t worry about it, Hikari. And yes, I am. One of the benefits of being an Australian Mechwarrior. Enhanced abilities. If I want to be sober, I am sober. The alcohol is in my system, but it’s being nullified until I want to be drunk. Incredible, hmm? Hikari: Uhh....yeah, pretty cool. (The car finally pulls up alongside a kerb.) Matt: Well, Mister Aida. I believe this is your stop? Kenske: Thanks, Mister Eklom. Matt: Everyone, quit calling me that. Call me Matt. ‘Mister’ makes me feel old. (As Kenske gets out, Matt gets back in, and closes the door, leaving the window down.) Matt: Hope you had a good time, mate. See ya. Kenske: I had a great time, thanks. See you guys! (Everyone waves as the car drives off. Inside, the song “Paradise City” by Guns ‘n’Roses comes on.) Matt: Ahh, love this song. ------------------------------------------------ --------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------- ----- (Next day, in a very different place. The South Pole of earth. Gone are the glaciers and ice of old. Instead, all that remains is a sickly blood red sea, interspersed by thin towers of ice. One can see that something terrible has happened here. Indeed, it seems that this is the exact site of the Second Impact. Sailing between the towers, a lone battlefleet can be seen, with an Aircraft Carrier at it’s head. In a room directly above the bridge on the carrier, two men stand, regarding the landscape with tired eyes.) Fujutsuki: Once this was the living continent known as Antarctica. Now it’s an ocean of death. The pole. Not just another name for hell. Gendo: Never the less, mankind has returned to this wasteland. In the midst of death, we still live. Fujutsuki: That’s because we’re under the protection of science. Gendo: Science is what makes man powerful. Fujutsuki: That kind of self-righteous arrogance is what caused the tragedy of fifteen years ago, the Second Impact. And here, we have the result. This is a far worse punishment than mankind ever deserved. This is the real dead sea. Gendo: But this is a world that has been purged and purified of the original sin. Fujutsuki: I’d rather live in a world with people. No matter how stained with sin. (Any other words Gendo may have responded with are silenced as the radio comes to life.) Radio: We’re recieving a transmission from NERV. They’re detecting an Angel in orbit over Japan. ----------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------ -------------------------------------- (Back at NERV H.Q.. Misato is now in command, as Gendo and Kouzou are absent.) Hyuga: The Angel appeared in orbit about two minutes ago. Misato: Send Recon Sattelite Six to that location. (On the display, the radar blip indicating the Angel comes closer to the two smaller dots indicating Recon Sattelites. Finally, the Angel comes within visual range of the target. As it’s form is revealed, everyone gasps.) Hyuga: It’s enormous! Misato: It’s impressive, allright. Matt: Ugly bastard. Tech: Beginning data transmission. Tech 2: Data transmission confirned. (Suddenly, the screen showing the huge Angel goes white with static.) Misato: Was that an A.T. Field?! Ritsuko: Yes. A new way of using one. ------------------------------------ --------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- (High above the earth, the Angel seems to liquiify a part of itself, until suddenly, the section falls away, burning through the atmosphere to crash into the ocean.) ------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------- --------------------- (Misato calls a briefing together with Ritsuko, Maya, Hyuga, Aoba and Matt. Together, they observe the blast site on the tactical screen.) Misato: Look at that tidal wave. That’s an A.T. Field. Maya: It detaches parts of itself to drop on us...this Angel is like a huge living bomb. Ritsuko: So far it hasn’t hit anything. But for the past hour, it’s been steadily getting closer to the coast. Misato: So it’s learning to aim itself? Hyuga: We detonated an N2 Aerial Mine on it. No effect. Misato: It’s coming here, isn’t it? Ritsuko: It’s a safe bet. And if it falls on us... Misato: Then there’ll be a third Ashinoko lake, right? Ritsuko: Actually, this whole area will become an extension of the pacific ocean. Misato: What about the MAGI? Maya: The MAGI are unanimous in recommending an evacuation of the entire area. Ritsuko: What will you do? You’re the one who’s in charge of all this now. (Suddenly, Matt clears his throat.) Matt: I think I might have an idea... (Everyone goes silent before finally Misato speaks.) Misato: Well, I can’t think of anything that would have a good chance of working....let’s hear it. (Matt grins, looking at everyone.) Matt: I’m sure everyone’s aware that Australia has built space-flight capable aircraft. My idea is this: we get the help of the Republic to use a squadron of Starfighters to fly up there and deliver a payload of anti-Angel missiles. Ritsuko: You can’t be serious! A mission like that is suicide!! You saw what the Angel did with it’s A.T. Field! And you’re in no condition to pilot!!! Matt: If you can think of a better idea, I’m waiting to hear it. (There is siilence in the room, until finally, Misato speaks.) Misato: That sounds like a good idea....we’ll keep with it unless we find a better one. Matt: Well, I figure it’s the only chance we have. (The room goes silent again, until finally, Misato speaks again.) Misato: .....Hyuga....get in contact with the Republic....tell them we’re asking for their help.... Hyuga: (incredulous) Are you sure, sir? Misato: I’m sure. Matt: Don’t worry about that. I can get the Republic’s attention. If NERV can keep a tab on the Angel, we’ll take it out. Period. (As the room goes silent again for a moment, Matt turns and leaves.) Matt: I’ll contact H.Q. in thirty minutes. By then, we’ll be ready to engage. ---------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------- -------------------------- (Twenty minutes later, aboard the Righteous Endeavour....with a shrill scream of thrust, Matt’s Starfury lands on the flight deck. As he powers the fighter down, and gets out, General Patterson comes out to meet him personally.) Amy: Nice to see you again, Matt. I take it this is about that Angel in orbit? Matt: Good to see you too, Amy. And as usual, you’re right. I gather you’re already getting a mission together? Amy: You bet. Feel like clocking a few thousand kilometers in the cockpit? Matt: Well, I didn’t come here to collect my social security. What’s the move? (Amy shows Matt off the flight deck, and into a briefing room.) ------------------------------------------ ---------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------- (Meanwhile, at NERV H.Q., the scene is tense. Maya, Hyuga and Aoba sit at their usual posts, monitoring the Angel and other friendly transmissions. However, Ritsuko and Misato stand apart from everyone, Misato pacing backwards and forwards, trying to expend some of her nervous energy. Finally, just when it seems she is about to snap, Hyuga calls.) Hyuga: Sir? We’re recieving a transmission from Colonel Eklom. Misato: Connect him, please. (Misato takes her usual seat as Matt’s face appears as a hologram in front of her. Matt smiles.) Matt: (over the comm) Major Katsuragi. Misato: Colonel Eklom. How goes the operation? (Matt looks slightly troubled, before looking back at Misato.) Matt: Err....that’s the problem.....we’ve hit a snag. One of our pilots is unable to fly the mission, and because we need a pilot with experience in A.T. Fields.... (Awareness dawns in Misato’s eyes as she realises what he is about to say.) Misato: You want to use one of our pilots? (Matt nods, however, he is not smiling.) Matt: Whoever volunteers to go will be my co-pilot. They should know that this mission is more risky than any other mission we’ve ever undertaken, and that the chances of survivial are slim.....Misato, they don’t have to go. If none of them want to, we can attempt this mission on our own...but it would be much easier if we had another pilot.... (Misato is quiet for a time, judging the risk...) Misato: ....okay. If it’s going to make the mission easier, Then I’ll ask them. Matt: Right. Ask ‘em now. If one of them agrees, I’ll be out there in ten minutes to pick whoever it is up. (Misato leaves the comm open to go and talk to the EVA pilots whilst Ritsuko talks to Matt.) Ritsuko: Just how do you plan to beat this Angel? Matt: .....I can’t tell you....Just know that if we can get up there safely, the mission will succeed. Ritsuko: .... --------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------- ------------------------------------------- (Meanwhile, outside the range of the communication, Misato talks with the three EVA pilots, all of whom are dressed in their school uniforms.) Misato: So, what I’m asking is for one of you to volunteer for this mission. If none of you want to do it, that’s okay. But if none of you go, the Australian’s chances of beating the Angel are much less than what they’ll be if one of you does go. Asuka: We’ve got to be willing to sacrifice ourselves? Misato: I’m sorry, Asuka. This is the best plan we could come up with. Asuka: How can you call something this crazy a plan? Misato: I suppose we can’t. You can refuse to do it if you wish......if you can do this right, I’ll treat you all to a steak dinner, okay? (The pilots go silent for a moment before finally, Rei steps forward.... ...only to be pushed back by Asuka.) Asuka: Oh no you don’t!! If anyone’s gonna do this mission, it’ll be me!! Misato: Okay, Asuka. Come here. (Misato takes Asuka to the communication seat, where Matt still waits.) Misato: Matt? Asuka has agreed to do the mission. (Matt looks at Asuka for a moment before answering.) Matt: Very good. Asuka, listen carefully: I want you to be at the airport in fifteen minutes in full flight gear. Do you understand? Because as soon as I arrive, we’re leaving. I’m only landing long enough for you to get in, and then we’ll be on the move again. Got it? Asuka: Right. I’ll be there. (Matt grins.) Matt: See you in fifteen minutes, Asuka. (The transmission cuts out.) Misato: Right. Asuka, come on. We’d better get moving if you’ve gotta be there in fifteen minutes. (Asuka smiles at the other two pilots as she and Misato rush out of the room.) ----------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------- ---------------- (Fifteen minutes later, Asuka stands beside Misato’s car on the tarmac of Tokyo-3 international airport. Already she is dressed in full flight gear, ready to go. Beside her, Misato stands, along with Shinji, Ritsuko and Rei. As they stand there, Shinji looks over at Asuka.) Shinji: Hey Asuka? Asuka: (still looking away) What? Shinji: Why do you pilot EVA? Asuka: To show the world how great I am. Shinji: So it’s a way of proving you exist? Asuka: Yeah, I guess you could call it that. (looking at Rei) Why don’t you ask wondergirl? Shinji: (looking at Rei) I’ve....already talked about it with her.... Asuka: Oh, so you’ve been having secret meetings then? Shinji: No, it’s not like that... Asuka: So why do you do this? (Shinji is silent for a moment before answering.) Shinji: I don’t know. Asuka: Just what do you mean? Are you stupid? Shinji: (sighing) Maybe I am... (Asuka looks back to the skies as a loud roaring can be heard.) Asuka: I suppose you really are. (With an immense scream of turbines, a large squadron of fighters suddenly roars overhead, twenty in all, all larger than a Starfury. Suddenly, out of nowhere, a twenty first starfighter materialises out of thin air in front of them, landing on the ground with a THUD. It is different to the others, with two huge engines on either wingtip, and a long, elongated nosecone. As it’s cockpit opens, a helmeted figure gets out, and rushes to Asuka, herding her towards the fighter. The helmet’s visor opens to reveal Matt.) Matt: (helping Asuka into the second seat) We’re going straight up from here, Asuka, so listen carefully. Once I tell you to, I want you to engage your A.T. Field. I’ll do the rest. Also, once we’re up there, you may experience some disorientation. Just tell me if you do, and I’ll push the gravitic compensaters up a bit more. Understand? Asuka: Okay....but how do I make an A.T. Field without an EVA? (Matt does not answer right away...instead, he leaps into the pilots seat, and closes the cockpit, waving goodbye to the others as he does. As the sound of the fighter’s engines gets louder, Matt talks to Asuka.) Matt: Asuka, what I’m about to tell you is classified by Republic law. Tell anyone, and I’m under orders to kill you, understand? (Asuka’s eyes widen, but she nods.) Matt: This is the Republic’s greatest creation: the AXF 01 Spectre Synch Starfighter. The worlds first starfighter capable of actually synching with it’s pilot to provide unparralled flying ability. Once you put on that helmet, you’ll be one with me and the fighter. It’s like an EVA, only you don’t walk it, you fly it. Are you ready? Asuka: Let’s go! (Matt nods as Asuka puts on her helmet. Suddenly, after a moment of darkness, Asuka can see everything. The fighter is removed from her vision, making her feel as though she is flying through the air herself. As the fighter leaves the ground, she can see Misato and the others getting quckly into Misato’s car to head back to NERV. Matt speaks, his voice now given a slightly deeper tone by the fighter’s immersion system.) Matt: Lead to Viper Wing. Form up on me, and head immedietely to the target zone. (Suddenly, in her mind, Asuka can hear the reply of someone else.) Voice: Roger, Viper lead. This is Rogue Wing, forming up. Second Voice: Roger, Raptor Wing is formed up and ready to go. (Looking behind herself, Asuka suddenly sees the twenty other aircraft formed up behind them in a long line. As they leave the ground far behind, she feels the immense G-Forces crushing her into her g couch, and she struggles to hold her head up for a moment before suddenly, the forces vanish. She looks at Matt questioningly, as she can now see his face. Matt grins back.) Matt: Gravitic compensators kicking in. Feel better? Asuka: Hell yeah. So, where’s the Angel? Matt: Right there. (Matt points ahead, and Asuka looks forwards. From this distance, she can barely see the giant Angel, until suddenly, her helmet assesses the range, and zooms in, bringing the Angel into a closer view.) Asuka: God....it’s huge.....how are we gonna do this? Matt: We’re gonna do it, Asuka. Period. (into the comm) Viper lead to all Spectres. Engage defensive systems, and prepare to disable target. All Venoms, prepare to deliver the payload and evacuate. Rouge Wing Leader: Roger, lead. Rouge Wing is ready to go. Raptor Wing Leader: Roger that, we’re ready to rock. (With a roar like thunder, the now thirty starfighters fly out of the atmosphere, heading for the huge three eyed form that hangs in orbit. As they approach, the twenty larger starfighters can now be seen loading huge missiles in their wing launchers.) Matt: Okay, Asuka. Get that A.T. Field up now. I’m working on mine. (into comm) All Spectres, Fields up!!! Raptor Wing Leader: Roger that, lead!! Fields unfolding!! (As each Spectre unfolds it’s A.T. Field, they seem to shimmer in the blackness of space.) Asuka: Nnnng! It’s up!! Matt: I know!! Hang on, we’re heading straight for that thing! ----------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------- ----------------------------------- (Meanwhile, thousands of kilometers below, in the command centre of NERV...) Misato: Status of the target? Maya: The target’s A.T. Field is down....but it’s sustained no damage as of yet. Hyuga: Australian force is moving into an attack formation. (Misato looks at the tactical display with determination.) Misato: (thinking) C’mon guys, get that thing.... -------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------- ------------------------------------ (Back in the lead Spectre) Matt: Bet when you woke up this morning you didn’t think you’d be flying in the most advanced starfighter ever built in space. Asuka: Hmm....well, what happens now? Matt: Watch. (into the comm) Rogue Wing, open fire!! (With a huge roar, the Venom aircraft open fire, releasing volley after volley of missiles. The missiles streak towards the Angel, impacting with an immense blast. A huge vortex spreads out from the impact, getting larger as it is fed by more missiles. The Angel is finally completely enveloped in the explosion, screaming in agony as it is torn from existence by the allmighty explosion, and with an immense tearing sound, the Tenth Angel, Sahaquiel, is finally defeated. As the Angel is torn from existence, the vortex subsides, drawing back in on itself finally until nothing remains.) Rogue Wing Leader: Target destroyed!!! (The comm-net erupts with cheers and whoops as everyone cheers the victory.) Matt: (into the comm) Okay, everyone, mission accomplished. All wings return to base. And well done to everyone!! --------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------ ---------------------------------------- Asuka: So, Misato. Now you’ll have to fulfill your promise. Misato: Well of course I will. I’m going to pull some large notes from my account so that I can cover everything. (thinking) Of course, now I’m broke... (The scene is one day later, in Misato’s apartment. The mood is still high, the victory over the Tenth Angel still fresh in everyone’s mind. Matt and Shinji stand nearby.) Matt: Don’t worry about it, Misato. I can pick up the tab for tonight. Misato: You’re sure? On your salary? (Matt grins.) Matt: My government pays me quite substantially. Don’t worry, I can cover it. (Shinji speaks aside with Asuka later on while Matt and Misato sit in the front seat of the car. Shinji: Asuka? I finally realise why I pilot EVA. It’s because I’ve finally realised the good thing about getting praise from others....and I pilot EVA to hear those words from my father.... (Asuka stares at him.) Asuka: Wait a second...that’s why you’re a pilot! Jeez, you really are an idiot. (Shinji simply shrugs and smiles in return.) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- To be continued.....