"This is Tokyo-3…it's where she told me to wait for her." Shinji dubiously looked at his watch as he waited patiently for his ride to show up. He frowned at the slightly dilapidated city that seemed a bit too used in for his taste. "What's got into her? This place is a dump. Where are we going to find a gig?"

The heat was almost murder and the humidity made the leather casing of his guitar that much more uncomfortable. He grumbled as he checked his watch again to make sure the heat wasn't giving him hallucinations. "Why are you always late Misato? Come on…our agent is going to get so mad."

Shaking his head, Shinji decided to try the payphone across the street since Misato was too cheap to get him a cell phone. Miser…every time we get a decent paycheck she blows her share AND MINE on beer!

As if on cue, the road ahead was suddenly filled with the sound of a sorely taxed engine and the squeal of wheels that were long past their expiration date. Indifferent to the fact that he was still in the middle of the road, Shinji grimaced as he slapped a palm against his forehead. "God…I told her not to due that. We haven't finished all the payments on that crappy Renault."

Roaring toward the lone figure on the street, the car suddenly realized there was potential fender meat up ahead and skidded to the side of the road with a huge squeal. Irate cursing and pounding on the steering wheel could be heard inside as the door basically tore itself off its hinges. "YOU ASSHOLE! If you want to commit suicide, DO IT TO ANOTHER CAR!"

Ignoring the curses thrown in his direction, Shinji yelled back, "You said you'd get here by five THIRTY! It's SEVEN!"

The purple haired woman took off her glasses half in surprise and half in embarrassment. "Oh…that's you Shinji-chan. I didn't recognize you…"

Grumbling, Shinji walked towards the driver seat. "That's because you're drunk again Misato. Move over. I'm driving." Roughly manhandling her towards the passenger seat, Misato pouted.

"I'm not COMPLETELY smashed this time though Shinji-chan. And you're underage so you don't get to drive."

Tossing the empty six pack of beer cans out the open window and throwing the random sheets of paper to the back seat, Shinji retorted. "That doesn't stop you from forcing beer down my throat whenever you party. So bite me. Besides, the cops take one look at your cleavage and forget all about me."

Misato grinned as she began rubbing her ample bosom against Shinji's arm. "What Shinji-chan? Are you jealous that I've been ignoring you all these nights? I'll do my best to make it up…"

Pushing her head back from nibbling on his earlobe, Shinji sputtered as his face erupted into a blush, "STOP THAT! That's not what I meant! God, you're breath reeks! You must have been drinking all night again! Get serious or we'll never get a gig."

Misato smoothed her hair back as she regained what was left of her senses. "Actually Shinji, I've been looking around a lot harder than you've thought. I have landed us a job right?"

Putting the car into gear, Shinji gunned the accelerator. "Wow…great job Misato. We get to work in a city that's half under construction. Bravo…"

Misato groaned as her hangover refused to go. "Just shut up. And don't drive so fast. My keyboard in the trunk doesn't have shock absorbers you know…And hell, if it'll put food on the table, we should be happy."

"Does food mean maybe…a restaurant or your nuke food and snacks again? I'm not eating your nasty ramen again."

"No, I promise. This gig'll put us on the CHARTS Shinji. As in the big limelight. We pull this one off and every recording studio'll be after our asses."

That piqued Shinji's interest. "You're not blowing me off again Misato?"

Misato flashed a lazy grin. "You bet. This'll be our big chance. So don't blow it like last time."

Shinji blushed at the memory. "I would like to point out that there wasn't PERMANENT damage…"

Misato closed her eyes and threw a wadded map in Shinji's general direction. "The address is written somewhere on it. I forget where the studio is so can you find it…" Whatever she was left to say was completely forgotten as her snores enveloped the room.

"MISATO!!! YOU LAZY SKANK!!!"

The weary Alpine swerved wildly as the two partners began arguing at the top of their voices.

"I WAS ASLEEP YOU BRAT!"

"DON'T PUT THIS ALL ON ME AGAIN!!"

"I'M HORRIBLE WITH DIRECTIONS! DEAL WITH IT!"

"MMMMIIIIIIIISSSSSSSAAAAAAATTTTTTTTTOOOOOOOOO!!!"

***

"Whoa…Shinji…you sure you got the directions right?" Misato's neck was craned all the way up as she stared at the giant tower in front of them. Polished austere white and almost glowing in the sunlight, it seemed to loom over the rest of the city. On the top was the crimson logo of a Maple Leaf with text carved under

Shinji was frantically rereading the map. "It should be…but no way. We've never worked THIS big Misato…you sure all that beer hasn't got to your head?"

Misato racked her memory. "I got a phone call from our agent, and she told me it was here…NERV recording studios."

Shinji's eyes almost bugged out. "NERV! That's the number one recording studio in the south side of Japan! Every record album they've recorded has gone golden! We'd be lucky if we hit dirt!"

Misato winced. "Don't say it like that Shinji-chan. I knew I recognized that name SOMEWHERE. But…I'm sure this is the place." She whistled. "Wow! Forget about our break later Shin-chan, this might be it NOW!"

Shinji grinned. "We can't be that lucky can we?"

Misato grinned back. "You know what that means though…"

They both yelled, "WE CAN DUMP OUR LOUSY AGENT!"

A quiet voice responded, "Oh? Really? I guess that means I have to raise my fee again…"

Both of them turned around with aghast expressions on their face. Misato was the first to recover while Shinji seemed to be suffering from a massive facial seizure. "R…Ritsuko…you're still alive…I MEAN! Umm…we were talking about err…some other agent that we were umm…"

Decked in a clean, tight fitting lab coat with a tank-top and skirt, Ritsuko was the not-so-classic agent. For one thing, she had graduated college with top credentials. Misato wearily thought however, that didn't make things any cheaper for them…not to mention any less easier to get along with.

Ritsuko quirked her eyebrow. "I'm sure. Should I feel scandalized that you're seeing somebody behind me back? I'm astonished Misato-chan…I thought we had something special between us."

Misato started crying. "How much is this going to cost me now?"

"20%"

"LIKE BLOODY HELL WENCH! 2%!"

"25% then."

"Succubus…"

"Progressive."

"Bitch…"

Smiling, Ritsuko tipped up her glasses and smiled widely. "Exactly. I knew we would always have something special. Nothing can get in the way of our wild, passionate love."

Misato was weeping on Shinji's shoulder who was doing his best to comfort his disconsolate partner over the prospect of a week's supply of beer down the tube. "We can always switch to the diet-alcohol…and I don't REALLY need an education and when the IRS comes again, all you have to do is put out some more…"

"But it's so hard to put out RIGHT now Shinji…"

Shinji winced, "Fine. You can take it out of my share to buy your beer. Does that make you happy?"

Misato stopped crying as she pondered over the situation. Still burying her face into Shinji's collarbone, she asked sweetly, "If it's ok with my Shin-chan…"

Wondering why on high heaven he just didn't go solo, Shinji sighed. "You know I exist only to see that glowing smile adorn your beautiful face."

Misato beamed as she made a complete recovery from alcohol deprivation in just under 4 seconds. "I feel better already. C'mon Shin-chan! We're going to show NERV we're the next star smash of the century!"

***

"You do realize that if we don't even know where we're going, we might as well get a part time job as janitors. Well…at least that's in Shinji's and my case. From your glowing intellect Misato, you might pass as a paper weight."

Misato bristled. "Be quiet. Just be quiet…I told you I'd get you there, and I'm sure we're basically there anyway."

Shinji didn't bother to mention that they had passed the lobby for the fifth straight time. It was best to keep one's counsel to himself.

On the other hand though, the inside of NERV was…well…in other words something out of his league. The technology here was top-of-the-line all the way down to the microphone cleaners. Every recording room had a digital black box and surround recording apparatus with dual fluctuating equalizers. Every auditorium had acoustic amplification/dampeners with multi-20x surround speakers wired into all the key spots.

Not to mention the equipment…

Shinji wasn't very picky. Being a full time musician didn't really allow for such luxuries. If required, he could probably scrounge a drum out of a beat up can…actually, working with Misato had required more than a fair share of ingenuity…but OH KAMI-SAMA… even the PA system sounded sweeter than anything he had ever heard, or more importantly, owned.

And made him incredibly self-conscious about the beat-up, almost run-down electric guitar he was shouldering since the case had broken apart two weeks ago. It was enough to make him flush almost uncontrollably at every lift of an eyebrow or turn of the head.

This was really as good as it could POSSIBLY get.

Ritsuko noticed Shinji's rather subdued expression and had to keep from grinning. Shinji wasn't a bad guitarist/drummer/well-anything-you-really-want-me-to-do, but the disconcerted expression on his face was rather comical. She tipped her glasses up as her heels clicked sharply on the marble floor. He would be in for a really big surprise. It was almost worth walking in mile-long circles with Misato just to see what Shinji's reaction would be. And judging by the way the security guards in the lobby finally got it into their heads; it wouldn't be too long now.

Ritsuko had to smile. This would either be the hottest group she ever managed…or it would flame out like so many others.

She hoped it wasn't the latter.

***

"Ahhh…Katsurugi-san has showed up. They're having quite some trouble though…"

"It doesn't matter. Is Ikari with her?"

"A…fourteen year old boy with brown hair…brown eyes…and a guitar. God…he's a spitting image of his mother."

"He would be. Send him up. I've waited long enough anyway."

***

"Ummm….Misato…are you sure we should take this elevator? It just doesn't seem…umm…the right one."

Misato glared at Shinji. "I would like to see you do any better. So unless you have any better ideas…"

"Actually…"

"Do not make me bring up what happened last time you had a brilliant idea. I think Ritsuko's still probably trying to prove you aren't a lesbian."

Shinji turned a volcanic red. "It looked good on paper."

"Yeah. And according to Fortune Magazine, you looked awfully great cross-dressing in pantyhose and support bras. Officially, for a guy, you have the perkiest breasts around."

Shinji's ego, battered to a cross-dressing pulp, hastily made a retreat back to the relatively safe world of keeping the mouth shut and the backbone to mush. The world was a horrible cynical place…someday, it might get better…

Ritsuko took some time to absentmindedly comment, "But at least there more authentic than Misato's…I wonder if it's time for the annual report to the tabloids yet…"

And Misato's ego, felled by the acidic wit of Ritsuko Akagi, joined Shinji in contemplative misery.

Completely oblivious to the glumness around her, the agent smiled happily. "Oh well. If this loser band doesn't work out, I still have enough in the bank to bail and move to America. The public there is so much denser. I'll make a killing!"

Misato and Shinji sighed perfectly in sync. All I want for Christmas Santy is a new Agent…(and a new SDAT) (and a new boyfriend)

***

"This way ma'am. No…it was take a right on the fourth auditorium and use the eighth elevator to the right. Perfectly understandable…we get it all the time…" The security smiled genially as Misato and Co. were gently ushered into the poorly lit room. As the door closed behind them, Misato took the time to mutter some choice French under her breath.

"Perfectly understandable my ass…Only thing you were staring at probably…"

Shinji mused, "I would. That's what I think looks the best."

Misato pursed her lips as she turned around to examine her rear. "That so? I've been trying to keep in shape but I sometimes feel I need to go on another diet."

Shinji shook his head as he bent his neck to take a better look. "No…just keep it the way it is. It's right in that certain spot where if it's smaller it makes you look old but if it gets bigger it makes you look like a tramp."

Misato ahhed appropriately while Ritsuko did her best to keep a large sweatdrop from falling off her face. The sad part is he's actually being objective…

"Not very professional Fuyutski. I shouldn't have let you convince me so easily. They're probably a waste of time."

The voice cleaved through the suddenly very still air like a hot knife through warm butter. It commanded authority with the air of condescension and mocking laughter that had nothing warm in it. More importantly, it brought Shinji's memory back to par.

Blood draining from his face, Shinji looked disbelievingly at the man sitting at the wide mahogany table. With the curtains drawn, there wasn't enough light to get a definite answer…but by god…that voice…

Shinji whispered, "Father…Otousan…is that you?"

Misato bit her tongue and forced herself not to speak in shock and then not to scream in pain as her teeth dug in a bit deep. Eyes as wide as saucers, she put an arm protectively around Shinji as the boy's legs seemed to wobble precariously.

Ritsuko smiled. She bowed slightly to the older man standing behind the man sitting in the chair. "Fuyutski-san…you asked me to bring my best? Well…for better or worse, here they are."

Fuyutski smiled warmly at Shinji. Yui…you would be so proud. He looks so much like you. He spoke slightly gruffly as emotion tinged his voice. "Of course, this is just a preliminary audition. In NERV recording studios, we set exceptionally high standards. But, please be seated."

Paralyzed, Shinji barely heard the old man speak. His eyes were glued to the man in the seat with his hands steepled across the table. Numbly allowing Misato to half drag him across the room, he froze in almost panicked fear as his father spoke again.

"No. Let them stand. I don't want to waste anymore time than I have to. I have more promising prospects arriving and I wish to welcome them properly." He gestured gruffly at Shinji. "You, boy. What's your name."

As Misato almost erupted in anger, a swift elbow to the ribs by Ritsuko kept her quiet although her face darkened ten shades. Even Fuyutski seemed a bit surprised but by the relative calm in his face, registered he was used to it. Shinji stammered as his eyes dropped to the ground. I don't believe it…he's forgotten…

"Well. Speak up or leave."

"SHINJI…I…am…Ikari-Shinji."

"What do you play?"

"I…I'm a backup singer…and a guitarist."

Gendo smirked at his son. Yui was a guitarist too…but I doubt you could ever match her. No one could. "What is your band called?"

Misato swallowed as she stepped in front to shield Shinji from any further abuse. "Lovely Suite. We auditioned last time as Shin-chan's Lovely Suite." She made a mental note not to mention she was probably smashed when she came up with that title.

Gendo let out a short laugh. "For your sake, I hope not. Auditioning is tomorrow. You'll be facing heavy competition so don't expect too much. If we deem you worthy, we'll negotiate a preliminary contract. Other than that, I think you've wasted enough of my time. Fuyutski, escort them out. I have much work to do." Getting up, he picked up a portfolio and walked out.

"Just keep on walking you bastard…" Whispering under her breath, Misato's eyes spat fire as she had an arm protectively wrapped around Shinji. Holding him close, she gripped his shoulder.

Fuyutski smiled supportively. "I do beg your pardon but we do have to maintain a tight schedule. We've already reserved a suite for you two at the Tokyo Ritz. Please enjoy yourselves. I presume you can find your own way out?"

Shinji was still staring at the door where his father had just walked out.

***

"Well, to hell with this. We're gone. How does this sound Shin-chan? We stay for the night at the hotel to make hot passionate love to each other, if you're lucky Ritsuko we might consider inviting you for a threesome, and we split in the morning." Hoping to prod Shinji out of his stupor, Misato suggestively leered at him.

Staring at his bowl of ramen, Shinji curled up on himself. "I don't know. I don't know anything…"

Ritsuko smiled. "Looks like your Shin-chan is going into his Hedgehog mode. Ah well. I hope you two figure it out by morning or it's going to be a long drive home."

"What are you talking about Ritsuko? There's no way I'm going to be working for that asshole. Not only does he treat me like shit, he treats his own son worse. NERV or no NERV, I am not going to let anyone do that to me. If that means low-paying gigs and crappy wedding recitals, hell, we've lived through worse so bring it on."

Ritsuko took a sip of her tea. "Then you better find yourself another agent and another lawyer because I'm not letting you back out of this."

"What are you talking about?"

"You signed your contracts over to me as a down payment in my first commission. Which means you play where I tell you to play and you go where I tell you to go? So if I say you go audition tomorrow, you better audition and you better win." Her face was dead serious.

That stopped Misato in her tracks. "Why are you being like this Ritsuko. I hired you only because you were my best friend in college."

"And as that best friend, I'm telling you, this is your biggest chance to be anything in the music industry. Nobody blows out just because they don't like their manager. They don't quit but they do learn to grow up which your darling Shin-chan needs to learn to do before tomorrow."

"Don't talk about Shinji like that!" Snarling, Misato slammed her mug of beer onto the bar table and glared at Ritsuko squarely in the face.

Shinji suddenly got off his stool and began walking out the bar.

Noticing, Misato reached out and called, "Shinji! Where are you going? It's late! WE NEED TO REHEARSE!"

Shinji waved her off. "I just realized I'm too young to be in a bar Misato-san. I'll see you later tonight. Don't stay up late." Closing the door behind him, he left a stunned Misato and smiling Ritsuko in his wake.

"I don't understand him sometimes…"

"You don't? That's probably the most logical thing he's done this entire day."

***

The night was bitterly cold in Tokyo-3. The trees swayed gently in the night wind as dew melted into icy frost which burnt Shinji's skin, turning his cheeks red. Dressed only in his light red T-shirt and jeans, his current state of mind let him ignore the bitter conditions. He took a seat on a bench and let him and his mind wander as he stared at the black sky.

"Otousan…he didn't even recognize me. Doushite…what am I supposed to do?" His hand balled into a fist. "What does he want me to do? I don't know anything…"

Sighing, he bent his shoulder and eased his guitar in front of him. Running his hand over the rough casing that showed years of misuse, he shook his head. Although scuffed and slightly worn, he had never owned another one. Perhaps it was time now…

Humming a tune, he started playing a few silent bars on the electric. Not really listening but feeling what the music would be, the only sound was the drawl of his voice resonating in the cold air. Moving expertly over the strings, his hands played out the melody he would have used even though no sound came out.

It was a music of silence. Perhaps the best music he could hope for. Because in his mind, it took the shape of perfection. It could be anything he wanted it to…Anything that wasn't real or painful at the moment.

"You're not a good singer." A short, flat answer jolted him out of his reverie. Opening his eyes, he spotted a girl standing by the railing overlooking the lake. Not even facing him, she was standing straight with her arms tucked neatly in her lap. She too was dressed lightly in the cold weather, but her oddly pale skin seemed to glow in the icy air.

Stunned, Shinji asked, "Excuse me?"

She paused before saying again, "You're singing. It's not very good." Turning around, her red eyes seemed out of place as did her blue shock of hair. Dressed in a simple skirt and a white shirt, she scrutinized him with dull, uninterested eyes.

Averting his eyes, Shinji placed an arm over the guitar. "I'm…I'm sorry."

Staring at him for a moment, she spun on her heel and began to walk away. Pausing slightly, she added as if on a side note. "But you might be good with your guitar. You might be very good." Curtly ending her sentence, she continued on her way.

Unable to look up, Shinji whispered softly under his breath, "But I'm not a good singer… I'm sorry…and I know that." Suddenly tired beyond belief, he closed his eyes and slumped over. "I'm…so…so…sorry…

"Even though, I don't understand at all."

***

"Tadaima."

"I would say welcome home Shinji, but I'm not feeling that charitable at the moment." Not even bothering to face him, Misato sat reclined on the bed in front of the television flipping channels. "If you're going to run away again, make sure next time its permanent so I can be sure to find myself a new partner."

Shinji shrugged and plopped on the couch. "I don't care. Get another one right now then. I'll play if there's nothing else I can do." He scoffed, "Not like it matters. That's all I'm good for anyway."

"You're right. You dropped out of high school, I picked you up off the street, and now you're wimping off again. I can sympathize with your situation only so far Shinji…but Ritsuko's right. You have to grow up."

Shinji propped his head on his hand and nodded. "Is that so?"

"Yeah. Cause if you don't perform tomorrow, we're splitting up. You go your own way, and I'll go mine. I don't want to see your sniveling face again."

"It would probably be better if we did that right now. You could probably find a replacement pretty easily…"

Misato took a long draught of her beer before placing it back down against the nightstand. "I could start my own real damn band if I wasn't babysitting you all the time. What am I doing with my life though? I'm 24 and I'm still hanging around with a fifteen year old. Jesus…"

Both of them relapsed into silence. Not really focusing on the blaring television or on the alcohol, Misato sighed. "But who am I joking? I never could do better. I  had the chance…god knows I've had the chances. And here we are at another chance and I'm already feeling like we've screwed up." She turned off the TV and glared at the blank screen. "Whatever. Shit…not like I can change how you think Shinji."

She turned off the lights and rolled over in her bed. "Good night. I'll understand if you're not there in the morning."

Staring unfocusedly at his hands, Shinji whispered softly, "Sorry…Misato…"

"I know you are. Don't bother me. Good night."

This time Shinji didn't respond.

***

Misato couldn't sleep and the red glaring numbers on the alarm clock proved it. 3:00 in the damn morning and I have to get to the studio by six…shit I'm going to feel like crap. She groaned. "Dammit Shinji…if you're not going to say anything, you're just going to make me feel worse. So say something already cause I know you're not asleep."

Shinji's monotone voice filled her relief as she realized he hadn't run off. "What do you want me to say Misato?"

Not rolling over to meet his face, she scrunched up tighter against the pillows. "You still want to play tomorrow? Even if it might cause you pain…do you want to play?"

"No. Not really."

"Oh." She chuckled softly to herself. "Yeah…what did I expect. I'll tell Ritsuko tomorrow."

"But you'll still go right?"

"Yeah. I'll still go."

"Oh."

Both of them lapsed into silence. The hotel room seemed eerily quiet as if waiting for an answer itself.

Shinji broke the silence. "But I don't want to be alone…I wouldn't know what to do by myself. So I guess I'll play. If you don't mind too much."

Misato shook her head. "I don't mind that much. I probably wouldn't let you leave even if you wanted to."

"Why's that?"

"You're the best guitarist out there."

"Is that it?"

"What do you want me to say?"

"Maybe you might miss me."

"Yeah." Misato smiled. "There might be that too. Hell…there's always that. But…you know…that if both of us play and we feel like it…that there's no one who can really stop us right?"

"I know."

"Good." Misato grinned widely. "And if that couch is getting too uncomfortable you can always use me as a pillow if you want…or…anything you really want."

The other half of the room seemed to glow bright red as the temperature shot up ten degrees in that vicinity. "Is it that fun making me do that Misato?"

"You have absolutely no idea."

"How about if someday I actually took you up on your offer?"

Misato curled her body around seductively as she whispered huskily, "Then you'll be in for the best night of your life."

"Stop teasing me."

"No. It's fun."

"It's not fair!"

"Life's not fair brat. Live with it!"

"YOU DON'T HAVE TO PUT IT LIKE THAT!"

"IT'LL MAKE YOU STRONGER!"

"MISATO!!"

They ended up arguing for quite awhile. Next door, Ritsuko pulled the pillow over her head. "Just think about money Ritsuko…lot's of money. Enough money to buy my own private island when the IRS finally figures out I cooked all my tax return sheets and tries to peg me for tax evasion…Heh…stupid idiots…heh…."

Strangely enough, fraudulence and perjury put Ritsuko instantly to sleep. Go figure.

***

"I don't like the way he plays. Get rid of him…and his backup players." The calm monotone voice brought a smile onto Fuyutski's face. Without any threat whatsoever but instantly demanding attention. It seemed to fit perfectly with the girl's icy cold demeanor and firm red stare.

He steepled his fingers. "Is that so Rei? That's your third group you've chewed out in less than a month that you've asked me to get rid of. Don't you want to give them another chance?"

Ayanami Rei, the top singer in NERV whose next single was expected to go platinum didn't even waver to negotiate. "It doesn't matter. People like them are easily replaceable."

Fuyutski's eyebrow quirked. "Do you have any replacements in mind?"

"That's none of my concern. Just find me a replacement group by next week."

"I'll have to clear all the red tape of course…and go over this with Gendo. Finding new groups isn't easy…plus its expensive as you well know Rei."

"The Chairman has already approved."

He would…he always dotes on you… Fuyutski laid a portfolio on his desk as he studied the papers. "I see. I'll do my best."

Without a word of thanks, she walked out of the desk and made quick strides to her private studio. Fuyutski smiled behind her back. "Ayanami Rei…probably the best singer we've had here ever since Yui…but she'll need a lot more to become star material. Who knows…" He slowly studied Shin-Chan's Lovely Suite's portfolio. "But you Shinji-kun…you might prove to be very, very interesting. You are the son of Yui Ikari…how could you do any less?"

***

"Shin-chan's Lovely Suite…you're audition is up in fifty minutes…you'll be in auditorium A…good luck and I don't get paid enough anyway for making you feel better so I'll just go back to my minimum wage job and let you guys sleep it off. Whatever." The man with the clipboard took one look at the sleeping pair and walked off.

Those two…Definitely feeling a tic on her forehead, Ritsuko smiled pleasantly as she slipped into Agent mode. "I think I'll sell your contracts to the highest bidder Misato… but I'll keep Shinji as my personal bitch."

Misato woke up with a start as Shinji suddenly sneezed thunderously. Misato dazedly looked around. "What happened…who…what…?"

Shinji couldn't even move. "Can't…move…chill in spine…" Shivering hard, he giggled hysterically.

Ritsuko smiled naturally. "I love that. Those two dorks always fall for it." Walking up to the two, she tapped her flyer against Misato's head. "Oi. Wake up. Still, I'm proud of you. You got here by yourselves. That's a start."

Resting her head against her keyboard as Shinji leaned on her shoulder, Misato groaned. "I am so tired…can you ask them for another hour or so…I'm wasted."

Shinji reverted back to his snoring.

"I wouldn't be surprised. You two were griping at each other all night." Ritsuko stared disdainfully at the boy. "If both of you don't shape up, you'll miss your part for sure…" She growled softly as Misato was slumped against Shinji's head as they both snored loudly.

Reaching into her purse, she withdrew two items of diabolic proportions. "Do NOT make me use these two…"

Shinji's eyes opened slightly as he groggily tried to get back to sleep and to hell with the bitching Agent. But then, his eyes focused for a fraction of a nanosecond. Shooting to his feet, he threw himself backwards and slammed against the wall leaving a rather nice indentation on the concrete. Eyes bugging out, he clawed at the wall as he began screaming, "NO! NOT AGAIN! OH GOD! SAVE ME SOMEBODY!"

Misato's eyes flashed open. "Shinji only reacts like that when Ritsuko brings out the leash and….oh…CRAP!" Huddling behind her keyboard, she screamed, "NO! Don't do it Ritsuko! FOR LOVE OF GOD!"

Ritsuko smiled as she waved Misato's contract in one hand and twirled a collar with chain on her finger. "I believe all parties are sufficiently motivated." Fox ears sprung on her head, oddly reminiscent of Megumi in Rurouni Kenshin, as she cackled/howled, "HOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHO!"

***

Shinji cursed under his breath as he fiddled with the knobs on his guitar trying to find the right tempo. "Dammit Misato! How the hell do I know what you want to play? We didn't even have enough time to practice…"

"Why are you here?" A soft, familiar voice cut the suddenly still air.

Turning around, Shinji's eyes widened. "You…the girl at the park…how…and…" It was the mysterious girl with the blue hair and red eyes. She was still dressed in the simple clothes but unlike everyone else in the building, she had the poise of someone who not only expected to be here but expected it to be given along with a silver plate.

She ignored his comment. "Am I correct that this is Auditorium A?"

Shinji swallowed. "Y…yes…"

She calmly perused a sheaf of paper in front of her. "Shin-chan's Lovely Suite…I presume."

"Uh…right…"

"I don't understand why the Chairman asked me to come to your audition." She stared evenly at his eyes. "I don't expect much."

Shinji averted his eyes. "Sorry…"

She didn't even react. Not bothering to even look at him, she slid into a seat and began staring at the wall in front of her.

It was disconcerting…to say the least. But Shinji also felt slightly miffed. Who was this girl to walk right in as if she owned the place? I might not be a good singer lady, but I can still play. Placing a headset microphone on his head and looping it around his ear, he plugged his guitar onto the speaker and ran a few bars to test it out. He almost blushed when nothing came out but a harsh wailing of electric static. "I…have to tune it…"

The girl didn't even blink.

Finally coaxing the right tone from his stubborn instrument, Shinji closed his eyes half to concentrate and half to block out the incessant staring that was really unnerving her. Gulping he played the first bars of the song Misato had chosen off the spot. Opening his mouth he almost choked as a hand clamped shut on his mouth. Opening his eyes, he saw the girl holding a hand up to his mouth and standing right in front of him. Struggling to speak, she shook her head.

"Just play. I don't want to hear your voice. Just play."

Shaking her hand off, Shinji took a few steps back and almost stumbled on Misato's keyboard. "What are you talking about? Who are you anyway?"

Ritsuko's voice came from the entrance of the Auditorium. "Rei. Ayanami Rei I presume."

Rei turned her head towards the sound. Letting her hands drop to the ground, she shrugged. "Why does it concern you?"

Shinji's head spun. "Ritsuko…wait…wait a minute. THE Ayanami Rei?"

Misato laughed as she came out from backstage. Drinking a beer, she almost spasmed with laughter. "What do you think Shinji? Don't tell me you didn't recognize her." Coming up behind him, she pulled him into a noogie. "You sly little devil…what were you two doing here all alone?"

"H…HEY! Cut that out!" Pushing her away, Shinji stammered half in shock. "M…Misato! Ritsuko! Ayanami Rei…she's…she's…"

Ritsuko tapped her clipboard. "The top Singer in lower Japan right now. NERV's best I think at this point. Her first album release made records in sales and productions and she hasn't even hit her peak." She smiled out of the corner of her eye at Rei. "Interesting isn't it?"

Standing aloof on the stage, completely unconcerned of the intense scrutiny around her Rei nonchalantly walked off the stage and resumed her seated position.

Misato sniffed. "What's her malfunction?" She grinned at Shinji, "So did you do what I asked while I was gone Shin-chan?"

Shinji rolled his eyes. "I set up the speakers, tuned your keyboard and here's your headset. Don't bother to thank me cause I won't believe you."

Feigning delirious happiness, Misato gasped. "Oh Shin-chan! You really are so precious to me! Now you didn't have to go that far…" Setting up her headset, she tapped the microphone gently. "Hey brat. How come there's no sound? You screwed up again?"

"Turn it on first Misato."

"THANK YOU SO MUCH Shin-chan!"

Ritsuko had to laugh shortly. Taking a seat on the front row next to the stage, she commented, "You're so easily manipulated Shinji. God, if only you knew how badly I conned you last year…"

Shinji murmured, "Even if that's true you don't need to say it like that…"

Misato patted his shoulder. "Don't worry too much about it. Ritsuko's just an aging old hag with a chain-smoking problem. When we make it big, we'll dump her for a younger more supple agent…one that'll put out for me so I won't have to."

Ritsuko coughed. "That was harsh."

"Serves you right."

"I could sell your contracts right now and save you the trouble."

Misato glowered. "Skank."

Ritsuko countered, "Look whose talking?!"

Shinji shrugged as he finished setting up his equipment. "She has a point their Misato."

"Stay outta this brat!"

"Oddly perceptive for a brat though isn't he? He puts up with you all the time."

"WHAT IS THAT SUPPOSED TO MEAN!?"

"I cook…"

"He cleans…"

"I paid the bills…"

"Cleaned your laundry…"

"I forged your signature so Ritsuko couldn't act on your two month contract and sell us out to move to Tokyo-1."

"He…Wait a minute! YOU DID THAT YOU LITTLE BRAT?!"

Fortunately for Shinji's well being, a discreet cough came from the entrance as Fuyutski and Gendo walked into the auditorium. Immediately freezing, Shinji bit his lip nervously as Misato suddenly preoccupied herself with the equipment and Ritsuko tried to restrain herself from strangling Shinji on the spot.

Fuyutski gave a mental sigh of relief as the incessant quarreling died down. Still ignoring them, Gendo's face visibly relaxed and brightened as he noticed his blue haired starlet slowly get up to greet him. "I hope this is of no inconvenience to you Rei."

Rei shook her head courteously. "None at all sir. I don't understand why you asked me to come here though." She waved at the band generally, "These people don't seem to have much talent. They're noisy and completely disorganized. I would advise against contracting."

Shinji's eyes widened as Misato's eyes turned feral.

Gendo took no note of their reaction. He nodded, "I see. Your counsel holds considerable weight. If that is what you believe then…"

Fuyutski neatly inserted, "Sir…this is a public audition. Every band applying has the right to play before judgment is passed. Please…just let them play…and Rei…just give them a chance."

It seemed the whole room was holding its breath.

Pausing, Rei almost seemed affronted by Fuyutski's recommendation but with an imperceptible nod, she neatly folded her hands against her lap and sat down.

Sighing, Misato almost beamed at the aging man. I owe you big time… Smiling at Shinji who was visibly shaking, she nodded her head curtly as they both began resuming their duties.

Gendo took his seat next to Rei's and looked at his watch. "You have five minutes to set up."

Misato bit her tongue to keep from saying something she probably would regret as a stern glare from Ritsuko silenced her quite nicely. "Of course…" Thank God Shinji was here before me…

Gendo smiled genially at the blue haired starlet as if Misato hadn't even said a word. "Are you comfortable Rei. If you would prefer, we could move to another auditorium."

Misato blanched. "Sir! We just set up equipment and I don't think it would be that…"

Rei shook her head. "No. It's quite all right. I still believe this is a waste of time."

Gendo motioned for her to sit. "We'll see. We'll see." His icy gaze froze Shinji to the core. "Start."

Taking a few deep breaths, Shinji felt his hands shaking uncontrollably as his body refused to function. Not now…dammit…not now…not now!  His eyes widened in surprise as he felt an arm on his shoulder.

Patting him on the back, Misato flashed a thumbs up sign. "Come on Shinji. It's our world here. No one can stop us…remember?"

Shinji nervously smiled back. "Nobody." He took another deep breath and nodded. "I'm ready. Let's go…" Setting his fingers lightly on the guitar as his other hand tensely held on to the stock, he awaited her signal.

Resting her hands lightly on the keyboard, Misato adjusted her headset and tuned the volume. She spoke clearly to the audience. "We're still Shin-chan's Lovely Suite ready to perform. I will be playing keyboard with drum set background and Ikari Shinji will be playing guitar and backup voice."

Rei's mouth quirked slightly downwards. That boy has a horrible voice.

Gendo scoffed, "Play. No one's interested in your name until you make it. So skip the introductions please and stop wasting our time."

Misato tapped her earphones once more. This is it Shinji…COME ON!

The speakers in the background thrummed softly as the opening melody wound down. Gazing at Shinji, she nodded as the song began. At first her voice sounded hesitant, but she let the music amplify her voice for her.

So Faraway!                                                   So far away

Just Faraway                                                 Just far away

Tooku made de mo…                                     To the ends of the earth       

Letting her voice trail, Misato smiled as Shinji kept perfect time with her voice, his guitar playing perfectly with her. If anything, that boy was the only one who always played it her way. As the second bar began, her fingers flashed over the keyboard almost instinctively adjusting the background tempo and volume. Smiling, she sang into the headset as Shinji provided the background voice.

Shinji closed his eyes as he willed his body to react instinctively. Letting the rhythm control his motions, he was almost shocked when his throat thrummed to provide the background singing. But, unlike so many other times, his slightly hoarse voice matched perfectly with Misato's well seasoned tenor. We just might pull this off…

Misato raised her head high as she gestured to the audience.

Mikazuki no komorebi ( itsu no ma ni ka)     Moonlight filters in through the trees

Boku terashiteru kono basho kara               I'm feeling shy. Let's start

Hajimete miyou…                                          from here.

So faraway!                                                    So far away

Just Faraway!                                                Just far away

Tooku Made de mo                                         To the ends of the earth

Dare date kunou shite aruiteku                    everyone walks on in agony

Night and Day                                               Night & day

Sou sakende kizuitsuitemo                            Yeah, shout it. Even if you hurt me

Just day by day                                               Just day by day

Shinji felt the passion rise into his heart as he bent his head to hear the sounds his guitar was producing. Adding a bit of a sway to his hips, he gyrated the guitar around his body as the tempo increased only to slow down as the next bar began its introduction.

Shaking her head, Misato tossed aside her headset, picked up the microphone and almost leisurely sauntered to the center stage. Letting Shinji's guitar play the beat for her, she closed her eyes and sang almost in a question:

Yoru Dakara ano hosi wa ( kageyakeru yo) The stars shine because it's night.

Shittemasu ka? Omoidashite…                    Do you know? Remember...

Hibiwareta daichi ni ( mizu ageyou)             Let's give water to the cracked earth.

Hitotsu zutsu ryoute de ame!                         We'll collect rain in both hands,

Throwing her hand forward and taking a step until she was almost at the edge of the stage, her eyes shot open as her voice projected beautifully in the auditorium. It took an almost pained expression as she imbued it with all the colors of her voice. Fuyutski couldn't help but notice that Gendo was absentmindedly keeping time with his finger. Raising her voice, Misato threw herself into the main chorus as Shinji's guitar increased tempo and volume to keep pace.

Warette!                                                          Laugh,

Kuyashiuku de mo                                         Laugh, even if you're regretful

Dare datte! Kimi date! Aruiteku..                 Everyone, even you, walks on

Nakanaide!                                                     Don't cry

Boku date! Hitori nan da yo!                        Even I'm alone.

Kimi ni shita                                                  I'm so far away

Mienai! SO FARAWAY!!                              that only you can see me.

God…this was what it was about. Shinji hadn't heard Misato sing like this for a long long time. Opening his eyes, he saw her smiling brilliantly at him as the last bar came up. Laughing out loud, she winked they both sang the last bar together.

In the stands, Rei winced almost imperceptibly.

Just faraway!                                      Just far away

Tooku Made de mo                             To the ends of the earth

Dare date kunou shite aruiteku        everyone walks on in agony

Night and Day                                   Night & day

Sou sakende kizuitsuitemo                Yeah, shout it. Even if you hurt me

Just day by day                                   Just day by day

Bowing off to greatness, Misato backed off center stage as Shinji swept into the guitar finale. Remixing the tune slightly and letting it stretch for awhile longer, Shinji finally ended with flourish, stamping his foot to embellish and letting his arms collapse to his sides as he let his guitar dangle in front of his chest.

And the room erupted into silence. Fuyutski however, was smiling broadly and Ritsuko had thankfully put away the leash and collar. The quirk on her eyebrow however admitted she was visibly impressed. Gendo and Rei however, were completely impartial although Rei was scrutinizing Shinji with something ALMOST close to interest. Gendo was simply looking at Rei, allowing her to make the final decision.

But Misato didn't care. Panting hard, she was still grinning widely at Shinji who was looking back at her with an incredulous expression. They both uttered at the same time, "Wow."

Letting the mike fall out of her fingers, it dropped to the ground with a clatter as Misato sat back to recline against the keyboard. She looked amiably at Gendo. "And that sir, is Shin-chan's Lovely Suite."

Placing his guitar back into his makeshift sling, Shinji tossed it behind his back as he let the pure adrenaline rush soak out of his body. Blushing nervously, he slowly walked behind Misato and whispered, "Why can't we do that every time."

Misato shrugged. "It's just one of those moments kid."

Rei sat up with an intense gaze in her eyes. "They'll do." She looked squarely at Gendo. "They might make a suitable replacement."

Gendo shrugged slightly. "It's your choice Rei. Do you want this group as your backup players."

Misato and Shinji simultaneously lurched forward as they screamed, "WHAT?!"

Rei was still looking at Shinji with that same intense gaze. Ignoring their reaction, she walked up to the stage and gazed at Shinji's shocked face. "I knew you couldn't sing. That was the worst voice I ever heard…it almost destroyed the last part of your song." She pointed at his guitar, "But I was right about the second thing. You'll do."

Misato angrily stepped forward as she protectively dragged Shinji next to her. "What a damn second. What do you mean backup?"

Rei coldly met her gaze with the same implacable look. Ignoring her comment, she barely gave her a glance. "No one uses a keyboard anymore. If she stays, she'll have to learn how to use drum." She looked at the Chairman. "Can it be arranged?"

Gendo smiled. "Of course."

Rei hopped off the stage, picked up her jacket, and slowly walked towards the exit. Midway, she paused, and tilted her head slightly. "I think they can join my band then." Turning a right at the corner, she disappeared from view.

Gendo began to follow her as he tapped Fuyutski on the shoulder. "Set it up."

"Sure Gendo. Or should I say Ikari-Chairman."

"You know me too well. I'll meet you tonight at the meeting. Give me a full report." Tilting his glasses he shot Shinji and Misato a smirk. "Welcome aboard…if you want it that is."

***

"Bullshit! How does that sound Ritsuko? You can take that damn contract and cram it down his throat. Or better yet, how about straight up? Who the hell knows? It might turn into a diamond up there. Cause like hell am I signing that contract!" Misato was livid as she slammed a fist into the table. Glaring at her agent who was sitting next to Fuyutski, she snarled, "I don't believe this crap!"

Fuyutski said calmly, "I understand this may come as quite a shock but you must realize, this is not such a bad opportunity either. Surely you have heard of Ayanami Rei's reputation as well."

Misato waved that comment away. "Then get some other band because we're not biting." She motioned to Shinji who was sitting quietly by the door. "Pick up Shin-chan. We're gone."

Shinji dutifully got up.

Fuyutski sighed. "Please…just hear me out. Both of you. You don't have anything to lose if you do and believe me, you have much more to gain than you might think."

Misato gripped her hand into a fist as she said quietly, "I don't like losing…and I hate being pitied more than that. I know I'm good enough to pass down an offer that is providing no future whatsoever." She placed a hand on Shinji's shoulder as she continued. "Even though Shinji doesn't have a name…and he freaks out every other concert…plus he always gets mistaken in the tabloids as a girl,

Shinji's eyebrow twitched.

"And even though Ritsuko's a whore to money…"

Ritsuko was about to complain before she couldn't find a single way to validate herself. She stammered, "I would prefer…slut…or bitch actually…"

"And even though god knows how far my voice can carry the band, I still think we're the best." She turned around and faced Fuyutski. "I've dedicated a lot to this. I've read the files on your Ayanami Rei. She dumps background players like Ritsuko…"

Ritsuko grumbled. "They get the picture. Can you stop with the agent-bashing already?"

Misato smiled sheepishly. "Sorry. Rei might be your top prospect, but I'm out to make a name for myself. I'm not going to get that by being a shadow to anyone…and if we get tossed the first week."

Fuyutski steepled his fingers together as he slowly nodded. "Then you would know that Ayanami Rei has made 10 singles. All have made the top charts every time and have stayed there for at least two weeks." He smiled. "But…you know the catch right."

Shinji quietly answered. "She's never done a concert. Or a public promotion."

Fuyutski nodded. "We're not just looking for backup players Misato-san. We're about to start a completely new band…and a completely new release. If you think about it, all it means is that Rei sings lead. Which even you must agree isn't that farfetched."

Ritsuko answered slowly, "You always complain how a second voice would be perfect Misato. Now its just that you're the second. If you can deal with it."

Misato started looking slightly dubious. "I dunno…"

Fuyutski pressed on. "I can easily double what you're being paid now. I can also provide you with your own recording studio and practice auditorium. Lodging, of course, is always provided."

"I'm not in it for the money…" Misato began weakly.

Ritsuko smirked. "But having it is a major plus."

Fuyutski continued. "You'll get all the benefits of NERV employees…and I'll be frank. Gendo worships the ground Rei treads on."

Shinji winced. He never cared for me though…

"So naturally, if Rei succeeds, you two will be there with her."

Misato's resolve weakened as by GOD…a guaranteed living and place to say sure sounded better than parking out the Renault every night. She smirked. "But, whose to say we have any job security. If we screw up once, we're gone."

Fuyutski spread his palms wide. "That's a risk you always walk as a musician. Rei included…and myself included. But," he smiled. "That's the first time I've seen Rei choose her own players. Usually, she doesn't even bother to stay for the entire audition. And she NEVER concedes ANYONE will do. That she chose you guys, already speaks a lot." He slid the contract forward. "Besides, this is only a short-term contract. A monthly one…no one has ever lasted that long. If you survive, we'll extend it to a full-term." He shrugged. "Either way, you get what you want…just in a certain point of view."

Misato visibly weakened as she clenched and unclenched her hand. "Damn it all…this goes against all my morals…You want to say anything Shinji?"

Shinji looked uncertainedly as the focus of the room shifted to him. He coughed softly. "I…I don't know…but…" he smiled. "I do know that I have a horrible voice…Misato…"

Misato stared at him before cracking into a short laugh. "Yeah…you have the worst. The absolute worst…" She snapped her fingers. "But, you could always make me scream Shinji-kun."

Fuyutski sweatdropped as Ritsuko whispered in his ear, "Don't worry. Inside joke…" Or Lollita complex. Either way…

Misato sighed. Picking up the pen, she tapped the table twice before groaning. "Fine dammit. Where the hell do I sign."

Fuyutski nodded gravely. "Over here…and here…and here…you missed a place…make sure you sign here…"

***

TOKYO j-pop GRAVITATION:

This week music lovers has been insane. Ayanami Rei's FLY ME TO THE MOON…and BACK has hit the top for the second week in a row. Her second album is making its big debut this weekend and already the preorders are backed up all the way until March.

But that's not all. NERV recording studios have recently reported in a public announcement that beginning next month, Ayanami Rei herself will be beginning a concert tour all over Japan beginning right here at the Tokyo-3 auditorium. I would hurry to make sure you're not one of the losers left out of this historic moment in the music industry.

NERV will begin release and schedules this fall so do not miss out.

Release starts next week once again for those who missed it so if you don't watch…you only have yourself to blame!

In other news, D and Meir Link are once again squaring off in Otakon 2002. Odds are that D is going to kick Meir's butt right off but who knows?