Nergal Fan Fiction LLC

A division of Nergal Heavy Industries proudly presents:

NEON GENESIS EVANGELION: RENAISSANCE

Chapter Seven (True) "HOW COULD YOU GO, WHEN YOU KNOW HOW I NEED YOU"

by Ryoma

Misato sighed as she gazed up at the girl sitting on the dune, looking intently out over the expanse of ocean before her. Recreating the same pose she held the previous two days, the Second Child spent all of her waking hours on the lofty perch. Her vigil broken only by Misato's constant queries about the dream.

Selfishly, Misato felt relieved the girl chose to keep the burden of his words to herself. She didn't want to face the truth, and as long as the redhead held it tightly within herself, the Major was able to live the dream.

As cliché as it sounded, all dreams truly must come to an end and unfortunately for those involved, Misato knew that time had come.

She stared down at the sand as all around her people scurried about, breaking down and cleaning up the camp that had been their home for the past four days.

The Major stood frozen, her mind contemplating some combination of words and phrases to ease what she knew would be the impossible task of convincing her charge to also surrender the dream.

Misato continued to ponder her choices, blocking out the excited chatter of the other members of the party. Shigeru's and Maya's return the day before brought the welcome news that Tokyo-2 was indeed still standing and quite full of activity. And since their return the atmosphere on the beach lightened as a party-like feeling swept through the group.

The world would in fact survive Third Impact. Mankind proving it was worthy of a second chance at paradise.

In stark contrast to the jovial atmosphere, two members of the band grew more and more upset as the time drew closer for them to leave. Clutching her cross for strength, Misato decided to no longer delay the inevitable as she slowly trudged up the dune to confront Asuka Langley Sohryu.

And wake her from her dream.

Misato sat down silently next to her, matching her gaze out over the now-blue ocean. The sun shone brightly directly overhead, Asuka's hair casting shadows over her sunburned face.

With a deep breath, Misato began, "Well...Asuka...we're almost ready to leave for Tokyo-2 now." Glancing over and noting no sign of acknowledgement from the girl, she pressed on, "Um...Makoto's got the truck all loaded up and..."

She would never finish.

"I'm not going!" Asuka bellowed, her gaze never breaking.

Misato pulled her knees up tight to her chest. She had after all she expected this response. Ever since Shigeru and Maya's return, Asuka made it clear in no uncertain words that there were only two ways in which she would leave.

One involved a coffin, and the second involved walking hand in hand with a certain blue-eyed pilot upon his return.

Much to Misato's dismay, nothing over the course of the previous night seemed to lessen Asuka's resolve on this issue.

"Asuka, what happened...in your dream...I need to know."

Asuka slowly turned to face her, locking onto her eyes and searching them for the slightest hint of insincerity.

Satisfied, she released her burden on the only other person on the planet she remotely trusted.

"He told me...he couldn't come back...he told me to move on..." she stammered, her voice pausing in-between sobs. "He's going to be...trapped all alone...until he just fades away."

Misato instinctively pulled her into an embrace as she continued to weep. She couldn't help but join her as the true fate of her other child was fully realized. Pulling Asuka in as tight possible, she hoped to ease some of the former pilot's pain.

"I'm sorry Asuka, so very sorry," was all Misato could muster in her feeble attempt at consolation.

Asuka paused for a moment, then pushed herself free of the embrace.

"Feeling sorry doesn't help, Misato!" she started, her voice suddenly full of rage.

Misato reached out, but Asuka backed away as she stood.

"No, I don't need your goddamn help. I can do this without help from you or anyone else. Just stay the hell out of my way!"

She pushed past Misato and stormed away to the shoreline below.

Misato sighed deeply as she pulled her knees up to her body. Although Asuka wouldn't believe it, she empathized with the younger girl's plight, she herself reacted in the same manner when Shinji was absorbed by the Dirac Sea and again by Unit 01. She understood the sense of frustration and prayed that the Second Child would realize that indeed she felt the same emotions. A single tear fell to the sand as Misato suffered over the current state of her two children.

---------

"Status report!"

Misato called out to Makoto and Maya as she observed them walking back into view. After her failure to console Asuka earlier, Misato found herself inadvertently slipping more and more into the role with which she was most comfortable, NERV Operations Director.

Makoto glanced at Maya, who could only shrug her shoulders over the sudden return to military protocol. Unable to determine the best course of action, they too reverted into familiar roles.

"Lieutenants Hyuga and Ibuki reporting in Major," Makoto replied while they both snapped to attention.

Misato cringed as the realization sunk in that Major Katsuragi had resurfaced.

"Oh damn, sorry about that."

The apology produced a look of relief on the two officer's faces. After an awkward pause, Makoto saved the Major from further embarrassment.

"Shigeru, Subcommander Futyuski and the Section 4 team took the first truck and left about 15 minutes ago. The remaining vehicle is loaded and ready to leave," he said in his standard military tone before softening for the ending, "...whenever you are."

"Very good...thanks."

The two young lieutenants smiled and stood awaiting the actual order to finally leave the remnants of Tokyo-3 once and for all.

An order that would never come as Misato frowned and turned away.

"Maj...Misato, what's the matter?" Maya whispered, "are you okay?"

Misato turned toward them, her face showing the full weight of her situation. She forced a slight smile before answering.

"I wish it was me."

She slowly turned, gazing out at the distant sight of a young woman, standing in the surf, still desperately searching.

Maya followed Misato's stare until she too caught sight of Asuka. "Oh, I forgot...in all the excitement the past few days...I guess I sort of..."

"It's not your fault," Misato started, putting her arm around the younger woman who hung her head in self imposed shame. "If anybody should be ashamed, it's me...I'm the one who let her down."

She placed her hand on Maya's chin and slowly picked her head up. Upon seeing her smile, Maya returned it before they both resumed watching the distant red head. After a few moments of observation Maya broke the silence.

"What are you going to do? Are we going to stay and give her more time?"

Sensing an opportunity to finally participate in the conversation, Makoto joined in. "Yes, if you want us to stay, we will."

Although they sounded sincere, Misato knew the two of them wanted to close this chapter in their lives and move on. Tokyo-2 and the promise of a new future called them, as it also called her. It was all Misato could do to convince everyone to stay the one extra day and it seemed entirely unfair to ask anyone to say longer.

No, there would be no more delays. She would act on her chosen course of action.

She didn't have to like it though.

"No," she sighed, "we're leaving today."

Maya gasped, "you're not thinking of leaving her here, are you?"

"No."

"So she's decided to come with us?"

Misato shook her head. "No."

Maya and Makoto turned to each other in bewilderment.

Misato answered their unasked question. "Whether she wants to or not, Asuka IS coming with us, even if it's kicking and screaming."

For just a moment, Makoto smirked, never imagining how it could possibly come to that. Glancing over at the seriousness in Misato's eyes, however, he suddenly knew this would not be a laughing matter.

"You two stay here, I'm going to try talking some sense into her, but if that fails..."

"Misato you can't possibly expect us to drag her off, it's...it's horrible."

"Maya, I don't like this anymore than you do, but it's for her own good. If we don't take her with us, she will die here."

She paused for a moment, her expression becoming even more cold and unforgiving. "I can't do this alone...I don't think even I can hold her down in the state she's bound to get in. I need you both to be strong for her and do what's right."

Reluctantly first Makoto then Maya nodded in agreement.

Misato returned the nod before continuing. "I'll go alone because I don't want to scare her. But if I signal, you both need to come quickly and help me restrain her." Her resolve threatened to crumble as she listened to herself.

"Remember...we are doing this because we love her," she added, more for herself than anyone else.

---------

Asuka sensed Misato's approach. She didn't need to hear footsteps or turn around to know the time had come. Based on the events of the previous days, this was the logical conclusion to the situation, the moment was now at hand. Following her years of military tactics training, Asuka fired first.

"Save your breath. I told you I'm not leaving without him!"

Based on the initial volley fired, Misato knew this would be an all out war. "Please Asuka, you're not thinking rationally...if he could come back, don't you think he'd be here by now?"

"Just go. You don't need me. I'll be just fine."

"Not an option. We are all leaving together, ALL of us."

"Well since someone isn't here yet, I guess we're staying." Asuka followed her statement with a sarcastic smile.

Misato however was not amused. "I don't see anything funny in this situation, Asuka. It's hard enough to deal with Shinji's loss, don't make me lose you too."

"He's NOT lost!" Asuka screamed. "He can come back as long as he knows I'm here waiting."

She paused as her voice dropped to a whisper. "Please Misato, don't make me leave. You have to trust me, I just know that as long as I'm here, he has a chance. But if I give up and leave..."

Misato listened intently to her words. What if the girl was right? What if she was the last hope for his return? She felt her resolve waver again. Would one more night prove the difference? This could be the night he returned.

The hope within her heart struggled to escape as she gazed into Asuka's pleading eyes.

Violently Misato turned away, her rational side gaining a hard won victory. As much as she wanted to believe in his return, at some point in every rescue attempt you reach a point when you have to call off the search. That time was now and whether the girl understood that or not didn't matter. The dream was over.

"Asuka," she started while turning to face her, "that's a nice belief, but you shouldn't try to accept all the guilt over his loss...he made the decision on his own. You need to move on." Misato reached out to embrace her.

Interpreting the move as hostile, Asuka jumped back away from her. "Don't touch me!"

"I only want to help you," Misato said as she reached for Asuka's arms in an effort to calm the obviously agitated former pilot.

"I said stay away from me!" she screamed while pulling her arms out of the Major's grasp. "You're not taking me away!"

Noticing the intensifying situation between the two, Maya and Makoto ran up beside Misato. Asuka started slowly backing away from the three adults.

"Stay away from me!" she screamed as Misato, Maya and Makoto inched forward, trying to close the gap.

"I said stay back!" Asuka bellowed while balling her hands into fists as she felt the waves brush against her bare feet.

"Shinji…Shinji help me!" she cried out in vain.

Further retreat blocked by the water, she grit her teeth and prepared for battle.

Misato held her arm out, indicating for her companions to halt their advance. Asuka simply stared at her for a moment, her eyes full of fire and rage. Holding her attention for just a painful second, she quickly moved on to the other two. Never taking her eyes off any of the three, she constantly scanned for any attempt by any of them to close the distance further.

The caged animal look in Asuka was frightening Misato as she spoke in a reassuring voice. "Calm down...you're not thinking straight."

How wrong Misato was, Asuka mused to herself. She had already developed a plan for her escape, the key to which stood five feet in front of her.

Maya Ibuki.

The smallest and weakest, therefore she would be the one to fall. Hopefully in the resulting confusion Asuka's escape could be assured. Not that she wanted to hurt the poor woman, but desperate times...

"Asuka, look at me!" the violet haired woman called, demanding her immediate attention. This situation was spiraling out of control and she needed to stop it.

"Maya, Makoto please…give us a moment.

Makoto looked to Maya, who could only manage a bewildered shrug.

Silently they stepped back, leaving Misato and Asuka alone.

"Asuka, I love you like a daughter and I can't bare to see you like this."

The Second Child slightly nodded as Misato continued.

"I don't want to hurt you, but understand that we are leaving...ALL of us."

Asuka took a deep breath, her face beginning to boil in rage. Misato cut her off before she even spoke.

"Wait," she said, holding her hand up and turning away. "You see how serious I am about this. Rest assured you WILL be coming with us."

Again Asuka prepared to speak, raising her hand and pointing at the older woman.

"Just let me finish Asuka." Misato turned back and stepped towards the girl, who instinctively backed away. "I don't know what happened between you and Shinji...but it's obvious you care a great deal for him."

Misato watched the tentative nod from the girl.

"I'll give you five minutes...no more, no less."

Asuka watched as Misato slowly walked away, soon joining the others down the beach. Just before turning back towards the sea, she saw Misato lower her head and begin to cry on Maya's shoulder.

---------

"Well, Shinji I failed you after all. I can't put Misato through this...I know you wouldn't want me to hurt her anymore."

Given the amount of crying she did the past days, the tears didn't come easy anymore. Not that the feelings weren't there, physically she was empty. Content to simply hang her head, Asuka stared down in reflection as somewhere in the back of her mind, the seconds ticked away while images whipped through her mind...

Her first impression of him on the Over the Rainbow, sync training, Mount Asama mission, the ramen stand, Dirac Sea, the kiss, the battle with the Fourteenth, awakening on the beach, the night in the tent, the time on the bridge, their trip to the beach...his smiling face in the dream.

One by one her mind revisited each of these memories, her face alternating between a smile and a frown. Her eyes never straying from their steady gaze as the white sand below provided the perfect movie screen.

The sun slowly set behind her as a warm breeze pushed the few small clouds in the sky. Not a sound could be heard, apart from the rhythmic crashing of the waves. It truly was a beautiful sight, if she were here to enjoy it. But she was still in the past, in another place and time, her mind blocking out everything around her.

Slowly she closed her eyes as the dream replayed in her mind.

'Some part of you in Third Impact forced me to make the correct choice.'

'He will be gone forever.'

'You saved me from myself.'

'There is nothing either of us can do.'

'You are as much a part of saving this world as me.'

'His fate is not in our hands.'

'Remember why I did this...I love you!'

"I love you too," Asuka whispered as she opened her eyes and raised her head. A broad smile formed on her face as she finally spoke the words she feared her entire life.

The weight lifted, she turned and looked to the distant trio, locking on Misato and slightly nodding her head.

The older woman returned the smile before Asuka turned again to the sea.

"I am ready."

---------

Misato finally stopped crying. Maya slowly released her grip as she pushed away, her composure regained.

"Thank you Maya."

The young girl blushed a bit as out of the corner of her eye Misato noticed a very lonely looking Makoto slide closer.

"Thank you both. I realize this can't be easy on either of you."

"What do you think?" Maya quizzed.

"I don't know...I told her she had five minutes to say goodbye."

"What will we do it she still wants to stay?" Makoto offered.

"You will know in about a minute," came the flat reply.

Silently she prayed that Asuka wouldn't push the issue anymore. The pain of Shinji's loss still filled her heart. There just wasn't room for any more pain.

In the distance, Misato saw the girl stare at her with a smile. Sighing a breath of relief, she returned the broad grin with one of her own.

"Thank God," she spoke while turning to face the other two. "It's going to be alright. She finally came to her senses."

---------

"Why?"

The images of Rei and Kaworu floated effortlessly above the water just in front of her.

"I need you to bring me to Shinji."

"For what purpose?" Rei returned.

"To be with him. To help him."

"Why?"

Kaworu smiled to Rei and floated closer to Asuka, who appeared about ready to explode.

"You will have to excuse my companion...she is not as adroit at conversation as myself."

Asuka nodded, her face forming a slight smile.

"Why do you want to go to him?"

"He's alone. I want to help him."

"What makes you think you can help?"

"You said it yourself, his fate is not in his own hands. His fate rests with the person he chose during Third Impact...his fate rests with me."

"So you remember now?"

Asuka again nodded her head before speaking. "I guess I suppressed those memories. That's something I'm far too good at."

"So you are," Kaworu said with a smile. "But I must warn you, we cannot help you."

"I understand."

"And there are no guarantees either of you will return."

Asuka returned a slight nod, though somewhat reluctantly.

Kaworu frowned as he started to speak once again. "There is also the very real chance you will not find him. That world is an infinitely large place. You may very well search for an eternity and never find him."

Asuka's expression fell as a wave of fear and doubt swept over her body.

This was the decision that would affect her the rest of her life. The stakes were now clearly laid out on the table before her. Walk away and live a long life on Earth, or try to find him and risk never returning.

Slowly she lifted her head as a smile grew on her face.

"Mount Asama."

"Excuse me?" Kaworu replied, a perplexed look on his face.

"Mount Asama...I guess that's when I realized I was falling for him. When he risked his life to save me."

"Oh."

"I told you before, I'm ready...it's time to go save that little jerk!"

Kaworu smiled and slowly floated back next to Rei. Asuka closed her eyes, waiting for something to happen.

After a few moments, she slowly opened them again.

"I said I'm ready, let's go."

Kaworu slightly shrugged his shoulders as Asuka's gaze shifted to Rei.

"WHAT!"

"Why?" came the familiar response.

"Because I want to help him!"

"Why?"

This was becoming pointless, Asuka thought, what was Wondergirl getting at.

"I need him!"

"Why?"

Asuka felt ready to explode. In front of her was the image of a person she always hated, asking her the same stupid question over and over again. What answer would make her happy? What answer was she looking for? Asuka though of this for a moment before pressing on.

"I LOVE HIM, THAT'S WHY!" she shouted.

"That will do."

---------

Misato started into a dead sprint the moment she saw Rei and Kaworu appear with Asuka. Not bothering to tell her companions why, she immediately started running toward the trio.

Losing Shinji would haunt her for the rest of her life, losing Asuka would kill her.

"Asuka, get away from them...NO!" she screamed as her vision was robbed by the intense light forming at her desired destination.

Her primary source of direction and balance lost, Misato stumbled and fell well short of her goal. Still unable to look at the blinding light, she remained on her hands and knees with her head hung down, purple hair covering her face. Tightly she gripped the cold sand, feeling the grains slip through her fingers.

Suddenly it was gone, the light once as bright as the sun disappeared in the blink of an eye.

She didn't bother to look up, instead choosing to watch the tears roll off her cheeks, impacting on the ground below.

Why expend the energy to pick up her head? She already knew what happened. Asuka was gone.

Makoto and Maya ran up behind the sobbing Misato and knelt down beside her.

"What the hell just happened?" yelled Makoto as Maya wrapped her arms around Misato's waist resting her head on the older woman's back.

"Where's Asuka?"

"S...she's...gone," Misato stammered out in between sobs.

"Gone?" Makoto returned as he scanned up and down the beach.

"Gone where, Misato?" Maya started, still holding on tightly.

Misato paused for a moment, then stood up and stepped away from the two former lieutenants. She simply remained there, her back to them gazing at Asuka's last earthly location. Soon it became apparent to them she was wiping tears from her eyes. Makoto was about to ask the question again when he felt Maya grab his arm. Looking over she simply shook her head.

Finally Misato turned and faced the duo.

"You two can leave now…I won't be joining you."

"If you're going to stay, then we will stay too," Maya retorted.

"No. I want to be alone."

Before either one could respond, Misato abruptly turned and walked away.

Makoto whispered to Maya. "What do we do? We can't to stay any longer."

"I know."

"She did say to leave. Won't she get more upset if we stay?"

"Listen, take the truck to Tokyo-2 as planned. Try to find the others, grab some supplies and get back down here as fast as you can."

"What are you going to do while I'm gone?"

Maya took a moment to clear her dry throat. "Try to keep the Major from killing herself..."

---------

Floating.

No that wasn't the right word to explain this feeling, Asuka thought. To float would imply that there was some type of substance, a medium providing support. This was different, she was surrounded by nothing. No liquid, no gas...quite simply this world was complete and utter emptiness.

Yet with this condition came one unmistakable advantage.

Complete and utter freedom.

Unencumbered with such earthly constraints as up and down, left and right, Asuka started her quest.

This shouldn't take long. I'll find that idiot and get us out of here.

Soon a smile appeared on her face.

Yes...this won't take long at all.

---------

"I thought I told you to leave!"

Misato yelled toward the pile of rubble just off the in the distance. She sat next to the remnants of the fire, willing flames to appear and drive the chill that swept over her. With sunset approaching the air grew increasingly colder and just enough of a breeze rolled in to make her life even more uncomfortable. The person spying on her from a distance did nothing to lighten her mood.

Maya majored in computer science in college, with a minor in biology. She never served in the military so sneaking around covertly wasn't something that she was remotely good at. That fact was painfully obvious as she stood behind the aforementioned pile of rubble. Cautiously she peered around a large slab of concrete.

Misato didn't bother to look up, instead continuing to poke at the ashes of the fire, searching in desperation for an active ember.

"If you aren't going to leave then at least come over here and help me with this fire...it's getting cold out."

Maya nodded before realizing that Misato still wasn't looking.

"Y...yes," she stammered while stepping out and slowly walking over to the older woman.

"Here," Maya started, sticking her hand out just in front of Misato's face. The Major sat with a puzzled look on her face before Maya rolled her hand over revealing a cigarette lighter.

"Thanks."

"I'll get some firewood and have this thing going in no time."

Misato could only manage a slight nod as Maya turned and walked away.

---------

Maya dropped another log on the fire. Not that she was cold or that the flames threatened to burn out. In reality the heat generated by the already over stoked flames had twice caused her to move back. Judging by the instant increase in temperature, another retreat was imminent.

She placed this log on for the same reasons she placed all the others.

To prove that she was still alive.

For hours now she stared into the dancing flames, searching for something, anything that could be used as a bridge to reach the despondent woman sitting next to her.

Perhaps subconsciously she hoped the intense heat of the flames would melt the barriers cast up in front of her. Misato had said nothing to her for hours, instead watching the hypnotic glow of the embers as they pulsated with each passing breeze.

"I think that's enough."

Maya jumped. She was not prepared for the sound of another's voice as it broke the endless droll of the crackling and hissing of the fire. She quickly collected herself to respond.

"Oh...sorry about that. I got a little carried away."

"It's okay."

Maya nodded and continued to stare at Misato. The young woman's eye's screamed for more, anything further. Receiving no additional response, Maya broke the gaze and resumed watching the fire.

Her hands clenched and shook as she chided herself for not taking advantage of that small opportunity. Why did she have to be so weak? Her disgust started to be displaced by growing anger. She needed to help Misato, she needed to be stronger.

"Thank you for staying with me."

Maya let out an audible sigh of relief as Misato presented her with another opportunity.

"Can you tell me what happened?"

Misato watched her feet as they dug deep into the sand, the cool sensation providing a contrast to the heat felt by the rest of her body. She fidgeted a bit, pretending to get more comfortable. It wasn't going to be easy, she thought, but if she didn't open up now...

Looking up at Maya, her eyes were filled with long repressed tears.

"I loved them, and I never showed it. I was too afraid. Too scared. Too wrapped up in my own problems. Unwilling to help them when they needed it the most."

She brought her hands to her face, wiping away the torrent of tears. "I wasn't a guardian, I was a joke."

"You are being too hard on yourself."

"No, I'm not. I sent them out to fight my battles, my demons. What the hell is wrong with me?"

"You were only following orders. The future of the world was at stake."

"What kind of world uses children to fight its wars?"

Maya hung her head in shame as Misato continued. "I get sick just thinking about all the things I did to them. The worst part is, at the time I only cared about killing the Angels."

Maya walked over and sat down beside the weeping older woman. Placing an arm around her shoulder, Maya found the strength to pull her tight.

"You were only following the Commander's orders, you can't keep blaming yourself."

"No...that's an excuse. I used those kids as much as Ikari did. I used them to get my revenge on the Angels. I can't blame them for leaving me. I've done nothing to earn their love. I have to prove that I do love them both."

"And if they don't return?"

Misato pulled out of the embrace and stood. After a moment of reflection Misato turned and faced the young woman.

"I though once the Angels were defeated, I could repent for my sins and make amends. I guess that was my plan all along, asking forgiveness after the war was won. Well, I was wrong...if they don't return, it will haunt me for the rest of my life."

---------

She was moving. She must be moving.

Yet with no landmarks or points of reference, how could she be sure? Still she pressed on continuing her pursuit of the elusive pilot.

Her heart raced as she finally saw a figure in the distance. His back was to her so she could not make out if it was Shinji or not. Even if it wasn't him, finding another person in the void was uplifting. Coming up rapidly behind him, Asuka grabbed his shoulders and spun the figure around.

Gazing back at her were two eyes. Eyes devoid of any emotion, any feelings at all. They simply stared inward, oblivious to her presence. Silently she screamed as suddenly his vision became hers.

Asuka felt her fists throb as she punched her wife, watching the battered woman sob for her to stop before Asuka released another savage fury.

Try as she might, Asuka could do nothing to stop the pain, these events had long since been played out.

This memory was his gift to her. This was a gift she could neither refuse nor return.

After a few more painful moments, she was finally able to break free.

Moving away quickly, Asuka looked down at her balled up hands, imagining them covered in blood as the screaming wife's image was etched into her mind.

She continued on her journey, wiping the tears from her eyes. Asuka knew this visit to someone's purgatory wouldn't be the last. In front of her thousands of figures appeared in the distance.

Her determination wavered just a bit as she stopped and observed the huge crowd. With a deep breath she pressed on toward the heart of the mass...

---------

Misato slowly opened her eyes. Looking up she blinked rapidly adjusting to the light as she watched the few puffy white clouds break the endless sea of blue. Another morning had arrived.

And still no dream.

It was almost comical, she thought, excusing herself to go to sleep the moment the sun dipped below the horizon. She hadn't gone to sleep this early in twenty-five years. She never really had a good reason to until now.

Dreams might be the last chance to say goodbye to her children.

"Misato...Misato."

The violet haired woman sat up, squinting while searching for the source of the voice. It sounded strangely familiar. In the distance she could see a young girl running towards her, sand spraying up from each stride.

Her heart leapt as she jumped up, holding her hand up against her forehead as a visor to block the sun. Maya ran up next to her, mimicking her pose as the two women gazed toward the approaching figure.

As the girl finally got close enough to distinguish her features, Maya did not recognize her, but the lack of flowing red hair immediately eliminated a certain Eva pilot. Glancing over she saw the expression drop on Misato's face, a slight frown replacing the hopeful smile.

The girl ran up and silently threw her arms around Misato into a strong embrace. Maya watched curiously as Misato's frown eased, her disappointment abating as the girl continued to hold on for dear life.

"Hikari, what are you doing here?"

The young Miss Horaki waited a moment before releasing her grip and stepped back to look the older woman in the eye.

"Well Misato…um," Hikari stopped with an embarrassed blush. "I'm sorry, Major Katsuragi I…"

"Wait," she said stopping the young girl. "Please don't call me Major Katsuragi anymore, it's Misato."

"Yes," Hikari added with a nod before resuming her story. "We were in Tokyo-2 and everyone was celebrating and stuff...but to us it just didn't feel right." She chose this moment to look down and observe the sunlight sparkling off a few grains of sand at her feet. She pushed them aside with her bare feet.

"So we started walking down here...to find out what happened."

"You keep saying we...who else is with you?"

Hikari's head rose revealing a cute little blush on her freckled cheeks. "Touji, Kensuke and myself. The going was slow with Touji's crutches and all, but he was determined to come with us."

Misato smiled causing a deeper blush to form.

"It was mostly his idea. He said we had to come find our friends, so we started off two days ago. As luck would have it Makoto noticed us walking on the road and recognized us."

"Luck," Misato whispered while turning away. "Fate would be a better choice of words."

She gazed out toward the glistening sea, watching the waves slowly advance and break on the shore, pushing foam far up the beach before retreating again. Fate was calling everyone here for a reason, perhaps there was still hope.

Realizing that she was completely ignoring Hikari, she turned around and again faced the former class rep. "Where are they? I haven't seen either of them in a long time. I sure hope Touji's making out okay."

Hikari smiled and nodded as she pointed to the entrance to the beach. "He's fine. This sand and debris makes it tough to walk, so the others are helping him."

"Others...who else is here?"

"Let's see there's me, Touji, Kensuke, Makoto, Shigeru something and some old guy...I think his name is Futyuski." Misato nodded allowing Hikari to continue, "and a bunch of people that I don't know just sort of followed us here. It's kind of…weird."

Misato smiled as the figure of Maya caught the corner of her eye. "Oh, I'm sorry...Hikari Horaki this is Maya Ibuki. Maya this is Hikari."

Both bowed slightly and smiled politely at one another.

Soon all three were gazing toward the beach entrance, eagerly awaiting the first glimpse signaling the arrival of the others. A slight breeze passed between them as each squinted to block the sun.

"I know what happened to Shinji and Asuka," Hikari whispered to Misato.

"How?"

"Makoto told us...do you think..."

"It's only temporary," Misato interjected. "They'll be back soon."

Hikari slowly turned to face her. "Is there anything we can do?"

Misato forced a smile and nodded knowingly.

"Hopefully just being here is enough."

---------

The pain was becoming unbearable. Try as she might, Asuka could not avoid the images and feelings passed on to her from the others. As she moved amongst the crowds of tortured souls, each shared with her pain and loneliness from their previous life.

Asuka could feel her resolve start to falter. She learned to deal with her own pain and loneliness, it didn't seem fair that she would have to experience others too.

She broke free and moved into a small opening in the masses. A frown grew on her face as she gazed out over the thousands upon thousands of lost spirits in every direction. She couldn't even remember which direction she just came from as the images of others pain replayed in her mind.

Maybe it would be better to stay here and avoid any further pain, she thought. Soon however a darker thought entered her mind.

Perhaps she was always meant to be alone.

---------

The fire burned brightly, embers flying up into the cloudless night sky to join with the countless stars above. A small group of individuals sat surrounding it, laughing and joking with one another as the sake flowed freely. Everyone seemed happy, save the two figures who slowly strode along the beach, waves occasionally lapping at their feet.

"Misato, do you think they will ever return?"

Misato stopped and turned to observe the moon, just rising out over the open ocean.

"I don't know."

Hikari turned and faced Misato, her tear filled eyes glittering in the advancing moonlight.

"What will you do...?"

Misato took a deep breath, dropping her head to watch as a wave crashed over her feet. She watched intently as the foamy water advanced and then froze for a split second before slowly retreating back to the sea. Hikari waited patiently as another wave came and repeated the process.

"Move on, I guess."

Misato looked up into Hikari's eyes. "When Asuka left I was very upset. I thought it was my fault. I thought I was so pathetic that she left me. I wanted to die."

"A...and now?" Hikari hesitantly asked.

"In the past few days I've come to realize that it wasn't Asuka leaving me. No, she went to find Shinji, that's all. She decided that he was more important to her than anything else."

Another wave washed over their feet as a tear fell off Misato's cheek into the advancing ocean below.

"If it takes me the rest of my life, I will again find someone that important to me."

Hikari nodded and laid her hand on Misato's shoulder.

"It looks to me like you may have found that someone."

Hikari started to turn away, her blush apparent even in the dim moonlight.

"It's okay, you don't have to say anything."

The class rep smiled and nodded as Misato wiped away her remaining tears before unleashing a slight giggle as she heard Touji's drunken yelling in the distance.

"Speak of the devil."

Hikari could only hang her head in obvious embarrassment as she turned in the direction of the fireside celebration.

"TOUJI!" she bellowed, causing Misato to cringe. For a small girl she possessed a powerful set of lungs.

"Touji Suzahara you'd better not be drinking over there!"

The sound of laughter erupted from the general direction of the campsite as Touji's companions unleashed a chorus of taunts. Kensuke could clearly be heard yelling something about Touji being whipped, and again another set of cheers and ridicule filled the night air.

"Idiots!" Hikari started while turning back facing Misato again.

"I'm sorry they're acting like this Misato. I don't see how they can laugh and party knowing what happened to Shinji and Asuka."

Misato thought for a moment, her head shaking back and forth as a large smiled appeared on her face. She reached out and grabbed Hikari's shoulder as she spoke. "No Hikari, we've been wrong."

Her reply was the blank stare from the girl as the cool water again rushed past.

"They have it right," she started, motioning in the direction of the clamor. "We should be celebrating. Laughing and having fun. I want them back more than anyone, but standing around moping isn't going to help...Let's show them why they should come back."

---------

Time was an unknown commodity in this world so Asuka couldn't judge how long she waited here. Curled up in a tight ball she sat with her eyes closed, occasionally sobbing as the masses moved silently around her. Apparently she no longer interested them, her gifts to them were more painful then anything they could share with her. Though she finally unburdened herself of the other's nightmares, they rekindled her own long repressed painful images. In her she mind replayed the image of her mother hanging from the ceiling, still clutching the doll she loved so.

The images in her mind suddenly changed. Now she saw herself inside the Unit 02 entry plug, yet it didn't seem quite right. This entry plug sat inside a lab hooked to wires as unfamiliar technicians scurried about. Immediately she could see and hear alarms blare and warning lights flash. These audio and visual sensations were soon replaced by a powerful feeling.

Pain more intense than anything she ever experienced in the Eva Series battle. Looking at her arms and legs she could see no injuries, yet the agony increased with each heartbeat.

Closing her eyes she screamed out, the LCL absorbing every sound as she felt her very essence being torn away.

After a few moments the anguish subsided to the point that she was able to again focus on her surroundings. The image before her was unmistakable as she felt herself drifting. Her hands reached out in a futile attempt to grasp anything as she clawed desperately tried to hold on. The woman sat in the entry plug, eyes wide open, yet devoid of life as Asuka slipped farther and farther away.

Finally she was released from the pain. Slowly opening her eyes she smiled as a warm feeling passed throughout her body. Standing in front of her was the woman, this time her eyes full of life as she returned Asuka's smile.

Kyoko Zeppelin Sohryu reached out and took her daughter's hands, instantly erasing the sorrow and loneliness. With a slight nod Kyoko suddenly pulled Asuka free from the crowds and whisked her away.

Though she never took her gaze off her mother's smiling face, out of the corner of her eye Asuka could see nothing but a blur as her mother held her hands tightly. Unable to speak, she could only smile back as her mother led her away.

---------

"Touji, I thought you said you weren't going to drink," Hikari complained as she watched him down another glass.

"No, I said I wouldn't get drunk. It's a party, and besides he's doing it too," Touji responded pointing over to Kensuke who quickly hid the glass behind his back.

Hikari crossed her arms and put on her most stern appearance. "You both know you're not old enough."

"Don't worry about it," Misato interjected as she pulled the sake bottle from her lips. "I drink all the time and nothing bad has ever happened to me."

Hikari could only roll her eyes as laughter erupted from the crowd.

"What?" came Misato's bewildered reply before she returned the bottle to her lips.

"Class rep, come sit down over here and have a little drink."

She looked over at Touji who motioned to the opening next to him. Cautiously she sat down as he handed her the bottle.

"Now be careful, this stuff is potent."

"Ok, just one little sip and that's it."

---------

As suddenly as they started, Kyoko stopped and released Asuka's hands. As her mother still drifted back slowly, Asuka's smile faded. She desperately longed to feel that touch again. She opened her arms and moved toward her mother, who raised a hand causing her to stop.

For a moment the two stared at one another, before her mother turned to the side, revealing the curled up figure of a young man, his black hair covering much of his face.

Kyoto again nodded slightly and turned to look down at him as Asuka rushed forward and wrapped her arms around Shinji. He was cold to the touch yet she felt the warmth start to return to his body as it flowed from her.

Slowly Shinji started to move as he turned to face her. His eyes blinked a couple of times before finally recognizing Asuka. With a huge grin he threw his arms around her as he tightly embraced her. Looking over his shoulder she watched her mother slowly drift away, the bright smile never leaving her lips.

Asuka reached out with her hand, just grazing her mother's hand and felt that warm touch for the last time.

Thank you mama.

When her mother finally disappeared from sight, Asuka turned to face Shinji as she clutched him as hard as she could. She closed her eyes content with the knowledge that she would never be alone again.

*********

The night air was quite pleasant and no hint of a breeze disturbed the thin blades of beach grass. The still calm as broken only by the alcohol fuel revelry that overcame the area. To a passerby it would seem hard to believe that people could be enjoying themselves this much in the rubble that was Tokyo-3.

Of course those same people didn't know Misato Katsuragi, and when she wanted to have fun, no one was spared.

She finished filling Kensuke's glass, carefully making sure to afford him a nice view of her ample cleavage. Satisfied that he was sufficiently teased, she turned to search out the two that had been her favorite prey all night.

Hikari Horaki and Touji Suzahara.

The aforementioned duo was still blushing from Misato's earlier tormenting and tried desperately to hide behind the flames. Being a master military tactician, Misato hunched down low, reducing her signature as she crept around the fire preparing to resume her all out badgering of the young couple.

Finally spying Misato's stealthy approach, Hikari burrowed her face into Touji's chest. She smiled brightly when she felt Touji's strong arms wrap around her, pulling her tightly against him.

Hearing her giggle in delight, Misato smiled as she saw the look of happiness on Touji's face.

He waited eagerly for another round of Misato's ribbing.

If Misato only knew, he thought to himself, that all her teasing was only helping his chances with Hikari. A smug grin appeared on his face as Misato stared towards him, her face emotionless as she started to stumble in their general direction.

Touji held his girl tight as Misato picked up the pace, ignoring her sneak attack for what appeared to be an all out frontal assault. Quickly she closed the distance between them.

His jaw dropped as she ran right by him, her eyes never breaking from their fixed gaze on the heavens behind him.

Hikari sensed that something in the game changed. Slowly she lifted her head up to determine the cause. Turning her head to match her boyfriend's gaze, she immediately discovered the source.

A new star, or so it seemed, burned brightly in the clear night sky. It's brilliant light easily outshining its distant counterparts. Slowly it faded, it's pure white emanations giving way to two teal green crosses.

Hanging for just a moment the two began their effortless descent to the Earth below...

---------

The only sound she could hear was the methodical crashing of the waves on the shore. It was the same sound she remembered listening to during her long vigil. Yet this time it seemed more…pleasant.

Asuka slowly opened her eyes and stared up at the gorgeous night sky. Her fingers dug into the cool damp sand before she grasped a large handful. Raising her left hand, she watched as it slowly sifted though her fingers. Clenching and unclenching her fingers she varied the flow until the last grain fell back to Earth.

A slight smile grew as she closed her now empty hand into a fist. Rapidly bringing her fist down she pounded on the sand, ensuring once and for all that her return was complete.

"Mama," she whispered.

Asuka carefully sat up and pulled her knees up into her chest as her strength started to return. Glancing over she noticed the reclined form of Shinji was beginning to stir.

Quickly looking up and down the beach, she found no signs of help.

It seemed again she and Shinji would have to go it alone.

Though still unable to stand, Asuka slid over until she was sitting next to Shinji. She leaned over ensuring that his first sight would be her smiling face.

Opening his eyes first a crack, then a bit more each time he blinked Shinji soon was staring up at Asuka. Her beautiful crimson locks were dangling down to just enough to tickle his nose. Slowly a smile emerged on his face to match hers.

A few moments of unspoken words were exchanged between them as they simply stared into one another's eyes. Asuka gently rocked back and forth to lash Shinji with her hair as her smile transformed to a wry little grin.

Determined to finally end the incessant brushing on his nose, Shinji struggled up to a sitting position.

"Y...you came for me."

Asuka tried her best to subdue her blush. The cause was lost as she turned away before Shinji could notice. Trying her best to remain in control of her emotions, Asuka recoiled slightly as she felt his arm wrap around her shoulder, pulling her against him.

"Yeah...well," she started, still unable to face him as her new emotions played havoc with her psyche. "I couldn't leave you there."

Finally gaining enough control that she could safely do so, she turned back to face Shinji. With one smile from him she blushed again.

"Thank you," he whispered.

Again an awkward silence developed between the two as for the next few minutes two pairs of eyes watched the waves crash on the shore in front of them.

Stealing secret glances at him from time to time, Asuka noted the ease in which Shinji seemed to conduct himself. He was sitting here with his arm around her and yet he didn't act shy or scared.

He finally determined his next course of action. Slowly he turned and started to lean in towards her.

Her heart threatened to break out of her chest as she caught her smiling reflection in those deep blue eyes, the realization of what was about to happen setting in.

Never breaking their gaze, Shinji gently took Asuka's hand and held it within his own.

"Shinji, promise me you will never leave me again."

With a frown Shinji broke the gaze and stared down at her hand as it rested on his.

"I'm sorry," he regretfully started. "It wasn't something I wanted to do…but I had to. If you can find it in your heart to forgive me, I promise I will never leave you again."

"I guess that's acceptable," Asuka replied with a wicked grin while picking up Shinji's chin with her free hand, again taking in those deep blue eyes.

"I'll forgive you, but…" she watched as a little life faded from those eyes, "don't ever forget the lengths I will go to drag your sorry ass back if you try to leave me again."

Asuka moved her hand off his chin and slowly slid it around the back of his neck. During the same instant she deliberately positioned her fingers so they became intertwined with his. The moment their fingers were properly aligned she tightly gripped down, his fingers doing the same as their two hands became as one.

Confident that Shinji would be unable to run away from her grasp, Asuka started to slowly pull him toward her. Neither would break the gaze as Asuka gently drew him closer, surprised that he offered no resistance.

Finally they closed their eyes as Shinji tilted his head just a bit to avoid a collision between their noses.

He paused for a moment to enjoy the feeling of Asuka's hot breath on his cheek. Not that he really wanted to stop, but in all the movies he watched, the hero always paused before kissing the girl.

There must be a reason.

The increased pulling on his neck caused Shinji to reevaluate this theory and he decided to ditch the movie ending. This moment had already been delayed enough for his liking.

He continued forward again, somehow finding the strength to squeeze her hand a bit tighter, ensuring himself that she couldn't escape at the last moment or even worse, pinch his nose.

Chins lightly brushed against one another allowing each to make the subtle corrections in their position to guarantee they were properly aligned. Two hearts beat in perfect unison as each leaned in to close the little gap remaining between their lips.

"There they are!"

Shinji and Asuka's eyes shot open as they heard the familiar voice somewhat in the distance behind them. Instinctively he pulled back away from her as she released her grip on his neck. The net sum of their panicked reactions left him sprawled out on his back in the sand while she turned away blushing a nice shade of crimson.

Shinji sat up and brushed the sand out of his hair. Turning to her he smiled, easing her fears that he might be upset at her.

Slowly their mutual gaze shifted as they both looked down in amazement that somehow their hands remained still locked together. Behind them they could hear the chatter of voices drawing closer.

Slowly he opened his hand, pulling his fingers up through hers.

It was too soon. She would feel awkward in front of others.

A slight frown appeared on his face, notion of losing of her touch, even for a short time, saddened him.

"Asuka…Shinji!"

The unmistakable voice of Misato Katsuragi cut through the otherwise tranquil night sky. Not even the crashing of the waves could compete with her calling.

Asuka started to ease her grip, preparing to pull her hand away before she noticed Shinji's pained look. With a confident smile she clamped back down on his hand, returning the beaming smile to his face as he reciprocated the action.

Unfortunately the union was shortened considerably by a very elated, and also very intoxicated Misato.

Running up to them she pulled Shinji to his feet with such force that the grip was broken, Asuka left sitting below.

"Shinji...Shinji, I never thought I would see you again!" Misato cried, tears of joy tumbling down her face.

Asuka looked up at the pair, a hint of jealousy evident in her eyes as Misato pulled Shinji into an ever-tightening embrace. She slowly rose to her feet and after brushing the sand off her legs she decided to end the sordid display.

Shinji was all hers...Misato could find her own man.

"Okay, that's quite enough," Asuka started as she carefully wedged herself between her two housemates.

The little grin and nod from Shinji reminded her exactly where his heart belonged as Misato wiped away her tears.

"I'm just so glad that you're back."

Misato again put her arms out, this time capturing both of them in a bear hug as only she could do.

This time Asuka didn't seem to mind. She was being pulled toward Shinji as Misato's emotional charged grip increased.

Smiling over at her fellow prisoner, she reached out trying to grab his hand again. Following her lead, he pulled an arm free and extended it out toward her.

Each time they got close however, the Major would shake them in a fit of crying, causing them to start over again.

"ASUKA!"

Asuka turned just as Hikari grabbed her free hand. "I'm so happy to see you again!"

Shinji frowned and desperately reached out as Hikari ripped her free from Misato's grasp before placing the red head into her own vise like clinch.

As fate would have it, the dueling embraces allowed the Children to have an unencumbered view of one another while their respective partners latched on for dear life. While Misato cried on his shoulder, Shinji gazed over longing to hold Asuka in the same way. Slight pangs of jealously flowed through him as he watched Hikari.

For her part, Asuka was completely ignoring Hikari's sake induced ranting about finding true love, choosing instead to focus all her energy into watching the object of her desire. Her eyes were pleading to him, to hold her, to kiss her, to love her.

That was until a new voice was heard.

Asuka's eyes rolled back, staring up at the heavens for strength as she instantly remembered the voice from her past. The elated look on Shinji's face confirmed her fears as Touji called again.

She could only watch helplessly as the others converged on Shinji. Misato was forced to release her death grip on the boy as Touji, Kensuke, and the rest of the NERV staff started their own round of handshakes and hugs.

After a few moments Asuka completely lost sight of Shinji as a mass of humanity swept around him. Sounds of a celebration flowed from the crowd as it twisted and shuffled, constantly frustrating her attempts to locate him.

With a determined scowl she broke free from Hikari and stormed over to the edge of the throng. Grabbing the first person she encountered, she pushed him aside to gain access to the interior.

Upon entering the fray, she was subjected to her own allotment of hugs and handshakes as she tried to move about the group. Periodically picking her head up, she vainly tried to find him, managing to only catch quick glimpses of him here and there. Each time she pinpointed his location, someone would inevitably move him or force her to retreat.

Her frustration reaching the boiling point, she clenched her fists and prepared to unleash a diatribe the likes of which even she had never attempted.

Dammit, Shinji was all hers and the idea of sharing was not appealing at all.

Suddenly someone grabbed her hand. Before she could yank it away she was pulled through the horde finally emerging face to face with him.

His beaming smile matching hers, the feeling of her touch again invigorated him as he interlaced his fingers to resume his previous grip. His free hand carefully brushed her cheek causing her to shudder as it continued past to the back of her neck.

Asuka's eyes closed as she felt herself pulled rapidly toward him.

Their lips collided, a bit harder then Shinji planned, but given the previous failed close calls he was leaving nothing to chance. Asuka didn't seem to mind as she moved her lips, adjusting for any misalignment.

Shinji opened his eyes for just a moment, softly gazing at her to assure himself.

No, this wasn't a dream.

Reality confirmed, he closed his eyes and returned the kiss with all his heart and soul. Time seemed to wind back as again they were the only two people on the Earth. Everything around them stopped and not a sound could be heard as the pulled at one another, arms rubbing along one another's back, desperately trying to find a way to get closer then the bounds of an AT field would allow.

"OH MY GOD!"

Kensuke's pained shriek rose over the din as all at once the happy couple found themselves the center of attention. The crowd noise started to dim as unconsciously they eased back creating an opening.

"I don't believe it. He's betrayed us with...HER."

Misato fought her way through the mass and finally caught sight of the still oblivious pair. For a moment a frown seemed to appear on her face before becoming overwhelmed by her usual glowing smile.

"Wooo hoooo, go Shinji...that's the way Asuka!" she bellowed as her fist pumped in the air.

"NO!" Touji screamed as Kensuke pointed out the duo to him. "Shinji how could you? Not the dev..."

Hikari's well-placed elbow silenced the Fourth Child.

"Stop it Touji," she whispered before turning to the Eva pilots. "Go Asuka...I always knew it."

Soon Misato's whistles were battling with Kensuke's catcalls in the chilled night air.

Reluctantly Shinji disengaged himself from the union. Though his nose wasn't pinched this time, he still needed a breath of air. Kissing with this much emotion took more energy then he thought.

The vision of Asuka's smiling face was soon replaced by the image of a screaming Kensuke and Touji as he instinctively turned his head to the source of the commotion. Rapidly turning his head from left to right, he tried to assess the scene around him.

A hundred eyes intently watched his every move as he frantically looked for an escape route.

Shinji's release from her lips finally registered in Asuka's mind as the spell was broken. One hell of a kiss she thought to herself as she opened her eyes in search of more. A mortified blush instantly replaced her look of bliss as she buried her face into his chest.

He gently wrapped his arms around her, protecting her from further embarrassment while still searching for that elusive opening.

Misato stepped forward to address them. "I'm so happy for both of you," she said as she gently hugged the pair, providing a limited sense of privacy.

"Congratulations."

"Yes, congratulations," Maya added.

"Way to go!" Makoto exclaimed as he and Shigeru began to applaud.

The applause spread through the crowd, though it took a glare from Hikari for Kensuke to participate.

Taking advantage of the slight intimacy Misato's human shield provided, Asuka grabbed Shinji and pulled him into another kiss after deciding that the pleasure generated was far greater then the embarrassment.

Asuka's aggressive action did not go unnoticed, providing more incentive for the crowd as the volume of cheers increased.

Touji for his part seemed genuinely happy for his friend and was whistling loudly until Hikari wrapped her arm around his waist and pulled him into a fiery kiss of her own.

Kensuke could only sigh as he watched his two best friends in action. Desperately he searched out the crowd for Misato, hoping against hope that perhaps another miracle would happen tonight.

Unfortunately for him, Misato was directing the crowds away from the four teens. Waving her hands and yelling at everyone to move back to camp. Soon the crowd dispersed as she finally succeeded in providing her Children some privacy.

Satisfied with her work, slowly she started walking back toward the camp, stopping for a moment to look back and smile before turning and running up behind Kensuke.

Throwing her arms around him, she resumed her teasing from earlier as the two of them disappeared from sight.

---------

One Last Final / Goodbye

--------

The last flames fought valiantly for life, struggling to the last even as the cinders turned cold around them. The encampment was quiet except for the sporadic snoring of a certain Major who lay sprawled out on the sand. Intermittently spread around the fire, groups of people slumbered dead to the world thanks to the copious amounts of sake consumed earlier. The bottles were strewn amongst the bodies, tell-tale reminders of the festivities that occurred there.

Shinji and Asuka carefully maneuvered through the crowd as if it were a minefield. They only stopped to briefly look at the sleeping images of Touji and Hikari, their contented looks bringing smiles to the faces of the Second and Third.

Resuming their trek down the beach, Shinji finally stopped just out of the reach of the crashing waves.

He cautiously placed his arm around Asuka's waist, gently pulling her in close. He tensed a bit as she rested her head on his shoulder. There they stood gazing out over the water as overhead a lone gull squawked its approval.

"I l...love you Asuka."

She picked her head off his shoulder and turned to look at him. He chose to remain fixed on the horizon, watching and waiting.

She gave him a small peck on the cheek before placing her head back down on his shoulder.

The rhythmic crashing of the waves threatened to overcome her. Their hypnotic chants combined with exhaustion were causing her eyes to slowly close. Each blink lasting a bit longer than the last.

Reluctantly she decided to rest her eyes knowing that Shinji would wake her when the time came.

He tightened his grip as he felt her start to doze off. He couldn't blame her, in fact his eyes were also becoming quite heavy as well. Still by the looks of the ocean, the wait would be over soon.

He cocked his head over to rest it on hers as he waited out the last few minutes.

Suddenly he heard a flock of birds take flight off to his left. Straightening up he watched as they flew away.

Turning back he saw the ashen faces of Kaworu and Rei, each dressed in their school uniforms and holding one another's hand. They seemed to be...smiling.

The three simply stared back and forth at one another, not a word spoken. Shinji felt his shoulder move as Asuka began to stir.

"S...Shinji is it time?"

He turned to face her, his face aglow in a smile from ear to ear.

"Yes."

"Good."

Together they turned to face the sea.

Gone were Rei and Kaworu, but in their place the sun was finally braking free from its watery confines. Instantly filling the beach with warmth and light.

Silently the two watched as it rose still higher, the clear blue sky revealed from the darkened veil of night.

"Thank you Shinji...this is beautiful."

She rested her head back against his shoulder while grasping his hand gently as the two enjoyed the specta6cle before them. Unrelenting the sun pushed on, taking its rightful place in the cloudless morning sky.

Today was going to be a beautiful day...