Neon Genesis Evangelion Fan Fiction ❯ A New Beginning/ A New World: Emerald Edition ❯ Chapter 24: School and Training ( Chapter 29 )

[ T - Teen: Not suitable for readers under 13 ]

By: ST Pika

Chapter 24: School and Training

A/N: Only four more chapters left to repost after this one, I know all of my readers have been anxiously awaiting the story's full restoration.

Wednesday January 6th 2016

In the early morning hours, Kaji awakens. The glow of the neon Yebisu beer sign casts an eerie glow in the darkness of the room. Kaji looks at Misato and notices that she is awake as well...

Kaji: (Staring curiously at the sign) Where'd you get that sign?

Misato: It was a Christmas present... adds some "flavor" to the room, doesn't it?

Kaji: I guess...

Misato: (Turning her face to look at Kaji) Kaji, can you help me make some breakfast? The kids are going back to school today and I want to send them off with a nice breakfast...

Kaji: Sure. (To himself) That's really nice of her to think of the kids like this... I love how she's changed but still remained the same...

After putting on her new nightgown, Misato heads into the kitchen and begins to make some breakfast. The smell of fresh coffee soon fills the apartment. Kaji walks into the room and minute later and begins to help Misato prepare breakfast...

A few minutes later, Asuka emerges from her room, clad in her yellow pajamas. She rubs her eyes and then sits down at the table...

Kaji: 'Morning, Asuka.

Misato: Good morning.

Asuka: (Slightly agitated) Good morning.

Kaji: (Noticing Asuka's mood and demeanor) Is something wrong, Asuka?

Asuka: (Folding her arms across her chest) I'm not saying a word until Shinji gets here. We have something to discuss with you two...

Misato: (To herself) I wonder what she means by that?

Shinji walks into the kitchen a moment later, still in his sleepwear. He sits down next to Asuka and then both look sternly at Misato and Kaji...

Asuka: Now that Shin-chan is here, we can talk. (Takes Shinji's hand and holds it) We think you two are not setting a good example for us...

Misato: (Defensively) What do you mean by that?

Shinji: (Nervously) Well, umm...

Asuka: We've been having trouble sleeping these past few days.

Kaji: What does that have to do with us?

Asuka: (Looking sternly at Kaji and Misato) You see it's like this, it's hard to get any rest when all you can hear is... (Takes a deep breath and then mimics Misato from last night) Yes... yes... YES!!! OH KAJI YES!

Misato looks very embarrassed and Kaji turns very red...

Asuka: In case you didn't notice, we're right next-door and can hear everything that goes on in that room.

Shinji has a brief moment of jealousy flash across his face hearing Kaji's name like that from Asuka, but the jealously slips away as he remembers that only he has been able to sleep beside Asuka, and only he has been able to do certain things with her. At just the mere thought of that a stupid grin crosses his face and Misato looks at him and she cannot help but turn very red as she misinterpreted his reaction...

Misato: (To herself) I wonder what he's thinking... must be hentai with that grin...

Kaji: (Tries to come up with an response) Well... um... you jealous? (Shrugs his shoulders)

Asuka: (Gasps, then speaks) Wha... Kaji... I...

Shinji: Oh yeah...

Asuka looks at Shinji and notices his grin for the first time and she flushes.

Kaji: Well, I can see where it would make it "hard" to sleep with someone like Asuka beside you...

Asuka & Misato: KAJI!

Shinji: (Mutters) No kidding...

Asuka & Misato: SHINJI!

Shinji realizes he just made a mistake saying that out loud... and he puts an arm around Asuka. She loosens up a little and lays her head down on his shoulder...

Asuka: As you can see, we're not at your "level" yet...

Shinji: (Nervously) Could you, um... keep it down or something...

Kaji: Not at our level? Have you been practicing... or can't he make you scream?

Shinji: (Blushing) We promised Misato that we would not do that, not until... we got married...

Asuka looks at him and then back to Misato. Asuka's not able to make a comment, being completely flustered at Shinji's last statement. Kaji, though, had to ask to another question.

Kaji: And how is that bad?

Rei: Misato said that it was wrong to engage in such activities without being married.

Everyone: REI!

She just looks at them calmly from the doorway, a place she had been standing since Asuka mimicked their guardian.

Kaji: (Rubs the stubble on his chin) Very well.

Kaji then scoots his chair back and kneels beside Misato.

Kaji: Since we went to college I have cared for you, back then it was lust and through the years it has become much more. I would walk though hell... (Looks at Shinji) Thanks for pulling me out of there... (Looks back at Misato)... to be with you. Would you marry me?

Misato: (Speechless) I... I... of course. (Tears start to flow from her eyes as the emotions begin to flow through her) Kaji!

Misato stands up and Kaji gets up off the floor. She rushes into his waiting arms and warmly embraces him...

Misato: K-Kaji...

Kaji: (Softly) What is it, my love?

Misato: (Very softly) You don't know how happy I am right now...

Kaji: I can feel it in your hug... (Lifts her chin up, so he can look her right in the face) And I'm sure I can feel it in your kiss...

Kaji plants a passionate kiss on her lips. Misato instinctively pulls him close and the two continue to kiss. In the kitchen, Rei, Shinji and Asuka move into the living room and give them some personal space...

Asuka: (Mumbling) That didn't go as planned.

Shinji: (Nodding his head) Yeah, I never thought he'd propose... just like that.

Asuka: Well, you know what this means?

Rei: That you two will not be able to have sex for an even longer period of time.

Asuka & Shinji: REI!

Asuka: (Loudly) Rei, that's not the point!

Shinji: It isn't? (Pauses) Oh yeah, it isn't... the point is...

Asuka: The point is now we will hear even more of that and it makes it much harder to go to sleep.

Shinji: (Mumbling) You have no idea how hard...

Asuka: (Trying not to blush and only partially catching the meaning of what Shinji just said) Why'd you even say marriage in the first place?

Shinji: Well... they were already dating, I guess... and they are older than us... it was the first thing I could think of.

Asuka: (Sternly) Why not just engaged or something else?

Rei: (Plainly) Asuka, is it because you wish to have sex with my brother that you are asking this?

Asuka: (Caught off guard) Huh? Yes... I mean no... I don't want to do that... yet... it's just... I mean... well... (Pauses and then looks at Rei) I bet you want to with Kensuke too!

Rei: The idea has merit, but I am not sure we are ready for that yet.

Shinji: (Shocked) Rei! You can't be serious!

Asuka: When has she not been serious?

Rei: (A new gleam coming to her eye) I believe that Ken-kun and I will be able to wait until then, do you think you can?

Asuka: (Rising to the challenge) Of course we can! Shinji and I can wait a lot longer than you can!

Rei: Then we will see who is the winner.

With that Rei turns and walks to her room and Asuka curses in German to herself for making that mistake...

Shinji: Asuka?

Asuka: I know... I just bet... we could.... (Sighs heavily and looks at Shinji) I'm worth the wait... right?

The sudden look of longing on her face made him instantly step forward and wrap his arms around her. He needed to make her feel wanted and desired.

Shinji: You are worth waiting for, and even more. I did go though hell to get you... and I won't let go.

Asuka holds him tighter, not wanting to let go. Shinji has stepped up and shown his deep feelings for her and how dedicated he is to her. They spend several minutes enjoying the warmth and love of the other person...

Misato: (Tapping Shinji and Asuka on the shoulder) Sorry to break up this special moment guys, but its time for school...

Asuka: (Breaking the hug) Do we have to?

Misato: Yes, you are already late.... Hikari just called from the school wondering where you three are...

Rei: (Walking into the room dressed in her school uniform) I am ready to go.

Asuka: Damn it! (Runs off to her room to go change)

Shinji: I'll be back in a second... (Rushes off to his room to change)

Misato: (Smiling) Well, it looks like you might have a father soon...

Rei: Congratulations. I do have one thing to ask, though...

Misato: Go ahead, Rei.

Rei: Could you keep it down at night... I can hear you all the way in my room...

Misato: (In disbelief) You too?

Rei: Yes.

Misato: (Embarrassed) Umm... I'll figure something out. Go wait by the door, and I'll take you guys to school.

Rei: Okay, mom.

Rei goes over to the front door and waits patiently for Asuka and Shinji to get ready. A few minutes later they appear from their respective rooms and Misato drives them to school. Misato is quiet on the whole journey, thinking about a possible solution to the "noise" problem. She heads over to the local NERV construction contractor after dropping Shinji, Rei, and Asuka off at school and places an order for some soundproofing materials.

The school day passes like any other normal one- long and boring. The other students in the classroom seem to share the same sentiment. While the others head back to their homes, Asuka decides to head over to Hikari's place after school. They have a talk while Hikari does the laundry...

Asuka: Still working on Toji?

Hikari: (Confused) What do you mean?

Asuka: Well... I helped Shinji become less nervous and he's really starting to open up. Have you tried that little trick I showed you yet?

Hikari: (Blushing and then looking away from Asuka) Umm... not yet...

Asuka: (Nudging Hikari) Give it a try, don't you want the big goof?

Hikari: (With a sly little smile on her face) So... how does it go again? (Looks at Asuka)

Asuka begins to laugh and then puts a hand on Hikari's shoulder. She then smiles and then begins to explain it to her again...

Asuka: Well, first of all you have to be wearing your best bra... that's just as important as the trick itself. You wanna see how he deals with something intimate...

Hikari: I see. I'll have to decide which one to show him... (Blushes)

Asuka: Make sure you have that one on and then all you have to do is do the trick. (Looks around to make sure no one is watching) Here's how you do it...

Asuka demonstrates the bra trick to Hikari and then puts her bra back on. Hikari copies the same steps nervously but without error. As she pulls the bra out of her sleeve, her younger sister Nozumi walks into the room...

Nozumi: What you guys doing?

Hikari: (Quickly turning around) Oh... nothing...

Asuka: (Playing along) I was just helping your sister with the laundry...

Nozumi: Oh, okay... (Pauses) Hikari, are you gonna start dinner soon? I'm hungry!

Hikari: (Hides her bra under the blanket and then turns around) I'll be there in a minute, okay?

Nozumi: (Happily) Okay.

Asuka: (Looking at Nozumi) You should learn to make dinner, too... so you can help your sister out.

Nozumi: Sure! I'll be in the kitchen, Hikari...

Nozumi leaves the room and then Hikari breathes a sigh of relief...

Asuka: She almost caught you, Hikari...

Hikari: Almost... (Pulls her bra out from under the blanket) I think I should get dinner ready...

Asuka: Well, I'll be going. Let me know how it turns out... although I think I know how he'll react... like a goofball...

Hikari: (Dismayed) Asuka! He's changed from what he was before- he isn't pining after Misato, for example.

Asuka: (Sighs) I guess that's true... but still... I want to know what happens.

Hikari: (Pushing Asuka towards the door) I'll tell you, okay? I have to get the laundry done and make dinner...

Asuka: Fine, fine... talk to you tomorrow.

Asuka leaves the apartment and heads back to her place. Hikari begins thinking to herself as she folds the rest of the laundry...

Hikari: I wonder how I should show Toji this... trick. (Smiles) I should invite him over tonight...

Hikari finishes the laundry and then prepares dinner for her and her two sisters. Nozumi lends a helping hand with dinner, and Hikari follows Asuka's suggestion to show her how to make a simple dinner for them, choosing to make some basic rice and vegetable dishes. Kodoma is impressed with dinner and has some positive comments for both Hikari and her new assistant Nozumi. After dinner is done and the kitchen is cleaned up, a nervous Hikari calls up Toji and invites him over to talk. He arrives a little while later and meets Hikari in her room...

Toji: So, what did you want to talk about? (Sits down on Hikari's bed)

Hikari: (Nervously) Umm... I want to show you something... (Sits down next to Toji)

Toji: Sure, go ahead...

After taking a deep breath, Hikari pulls her arms into her blouse. Toji watches with fascination as her hands move underneath her blouse. After a little maneuvering, she unhooks her bra and pulls it out of her sleeve. Toji's jaw drops as she drops the bra on his lap and carefully but nervously studies his reaction...

Toji: (To himself) What a trick! (Mumbles to himself softly as he takes the bra into his hand) I didn't know she wore something so... sexy. White lace... (Starts to drool)

Hikari notices what he is doing and a feeling of anger wells up inside of her. She gets pissed off and grabs him by the ear...

Hikari: (Angry) You are the same stooge I knew before. You haven't learned, have you? (Lets go of his ear)

Toji drops the bra onto the bed and then begins to rub his throbbing ear...

Toji: Hey! I'll change... for you that is.

Hikari: (Still riding on her anger) Asuka was right. (Pauses) Can you handle a little steam, and not drool like a baka? It's only a bra...

Toji: I'm sorry...

Hikari: (Calming down) Okay... good. (Takes a deep breath) Toji, I just want to be able to do more... (Blushes)... intimate things with you without you getting all goofy on me. You understand, right?

Toji: Of course. (Thinks to himself) She wants to get closer... with me? I guess I can control myself a little better and then we can some fun together. Hikari is the best...

Hikari: Toji... there was something else I wanted to ask you. (Looks down at the floor) I was wondering if... if we could um...

Toji: (Gently lifting Hikari's chin up so he can look her in the eye) (Sweetly) What do you want to do?

Hikari: (Very red) Remember that sleepover we had over at Asuka's place? Kensuke and Rei were really doing some heavy kissing... and Shinji and Asuka do that a lot, too. I was wondering if... we... could...

Toji: (Smiling) Try that out? I was wondering the same thing, too. I was actually getting jealous of Shinji and Kensuke... they got to be real close like that with their girls...

Hikari looks into Toji's eyes and can see that he is telling the truth; he has the same feelings as she does about this. Toji moves his lips closer to hers; Hikari closes her eyes and licks her lips, she cannot wait to get started. The softness of lips soon hits hers and she begins to pull him closer and lets her desires for Toji express themselves. Toji is also letting Hikari know how he feels by his passionate kisses... he had been thinking about this and longing for this moment for a while...

Toji: (Gently pulling away from Hikari) I bet you wanted this for a long time, huh?

Hikari: (Blushing) I think by the way your holding me, that you wanted this as much as I did.

Toji looks down and notices how closely he is to Hikari- his arms are around her waist. She smiles and then looks him right in the eye...

Hikari: Are you just planning to look down there or are you going to do something about it?

Toji: Um... (Pulls Hikari closer) How about this? (Places a kiss on her lips)

Hikari: (Flushed) Much better... go on.

Toji: (Scratching his head) Um... okay...

Toji starts to kiss Hikari again. His putting all the love that he has in that kiss; as if his life depended on it. As they keep kissing, Toji's hands start to wander around and end up caressing her soft hair. Hikari places her head over his shoulder and he gives her a hug. The aroma of peaches fills Toji's nostrils as he sniffs her hair...

Toji: Your hair... it smells so good...

Hikari: (Flattered) You like it?

Toji: Yeah, it's very... nice. (Has a sudden idea) Why don't we go out Friday night... maybe you can wear that new outfit you got from Misato for Christmas...

Hikari: Yeah... I haven't worn it yet. (Smiles) Call me after you get home and we'll go out... but...

Toji: But?

Hikari: (Happily) I get to pick the restaurant!

Toji: (Sighs at the fact of falling for one of the oldest tricks in the book) All right... your choice.

Hikari: (Smiling) Great! (Looks down at the bed and then grabs her bra) I'll be taking that back now...

Toji: (Rubbing his hand against the back of his neck) Hikari, um... can I just say one thing?

Hikari: Sure, Toji, go ahead...

Toji: I bet, um, you would look very nice wearing that... bra...

Hikari: (Turning very red) Toji... (Moves closer to him and whispers in his ear) Maybe one day...

Toji's ear perk up at her words and then he places a kiss on her forehead and gives her a warm hug. They enjoy some time together and Toji heads home, walking with a spring in his step and not believing what he saw or what happened just a short time before. That night, Hikari cannot help but think about her boyfriend Toji as she lies in bed and stares at the ceiling...

Hikari: (Softly to herself) What a night... I can't believe that I did that. He did react like Asuka said he would, but he promised to change for me. Those kisses were... wonderful... (Falls asleep)

The night passes without incident and it is soon early Thursday morning. Hikari gets up early and makes breakfast for her two sisters and then works diligently on a special bento just for Toji...

To see a picture of Hikari working on Toji's bento, go to picture 97 on NGE picture page 12 of my website...

Later that morning, after the kids have gone off to school, Misato is called into a special meeting with Commanders Ikari and Fuyutski down at NERV headquarters...

Kozo: (Passing a piece of paper over to Misato) This is the training schedule for the pilots. Due to the time factor, Commander Ikari and I have decided on training three days a week...

Misato: (Glancing at the paper) What about their schooling and recreational activities? These kids do have a life outside of NERV, yah know...

Gendo: That is irrelevant. This training needs to be done and takes priority over all other matters. The pilots need to be in top shape for the mission that lies ahead.

Misato: Speaking of the mission... have you located SEELE's base yet?

Kozo: (Shaking his head) Not yet. Our satellites and intelligence are working around the clock to find them. We have, however, ruled out the southern hemisphere completely. They are hiding somewhere in the northern hemisphere...

Misato: (Sighs) That's still a lot of land and water area to search...

Gendo: That is true. However, all five Evangelions are ready now. Once the training is completed, we will be prepared for anything- regardless if we have found their base or not...

Misato: (Surprised) All five are operational? That was quick!

Kozo: Yes- we have to be prepared for anything. The remaining leftover parts from the SEELE EVA units are being converted into something for defense of Tokyo-3. I also have some other news to report... (Shuffle a few papers and then hands the top one to Misato) Another one of our agents has died of mysterious causes...

Misato: Seems like SEELE is getting more aggressive...

Gendo: (Folding his hands) Indeed. We have to move the schedule forward...

Misato: (Standing up) At what cost? You're still dealing with human beings here... these kids are special because they can pilot the EVA's- but they still deserve a normal life.

Gendo: (Raising his voice slightly) They will not be able to lead a normal life if SEELE is not stopped. The same may be true for the rest of mankind as well. Have you considered that, Colonel?

Misato: (Exasperated) I... (Long pause)... suppose that you're right. When does this training start?

Kozo: In two days, the first session will be on Sunday afternoon. The school has already been informed that the children have some classified "business" to attend to on certain days of the week...

Misato thinks to herself briefly and then speaks up...

Misato: I have a suggestion regarding the training of the pilots...

Kozo: Go ahead, Colonel.

Misato: I think that all of them should have some swimming lessons and water training. It is possible that they will be near water or in it when they go against SEELE...

Kozo: (Nods his head) A very good idea, Colonel. The facilities here and at their own school are at your full disposal. See to it that they are in top condition.

Misato: Yes, sir. Is there anything else you need to discuss with me? I would like to get the kids swim training set up right away...

Kozo: You are free to leave...

Misato walks out of the room and heads up to her office to place some phone calls. Gendo and Kozo continue to talk down in the conference room...

Kozo: She took that well...

Gendo: Yes. I think Colonel Katsuragi finally understands the importance of this mission. She will cooperate from now on...

Kozo: I hope so... she has lots of influence over those kids. The last thing we need is for them to refuse to pilot or something like that... the consequences could be disastrous...

Gendo: Indeed.

Later that afternoon, Misato has a talk with her kids after they arrive home from school. Kaji sits in on this discussion as well, he is eager to hear any new information from inside of NERV...

Misato: Well, I talked to Commander Ikari and Fuyutski earlier today... and you guys are going to be training for this mission starting Sunday afternoon. All five of you will be training three days a week...

Asuka is the first one to raise a protest...

Asuka: (Loudly) What about our school and sports schedules?

Misato: Those have been cut back to make room for these training sessions. I have also scheduled some time at the NERV pool for you guys...

Rei: The pool? Are we doing water training as well?

Misato: Yes. We have to be prepared for anything.

Shinji: (Sighs) The pool...

Asuka: (Noticing Shinji's reaction) (Teasingly) What, you still afraid of the water, Shinji?

Shinji: No. I just don't like swimming that much.

Rei: When is our first water training session?

Misato: Tomorrow after school. I have already called Kensuke and Toji to let them know about the change in schedule.

Asuka: (Sighs) At least this will give me a chance to wear my old striped suit again instead of that black one I have to wear for the swim team...

Shinji: (To himself) I can't wait for tomorrow... she looks so hot in that swimsuit! It certainly shows off her hips and legs and br... (Shakes his head) Gotta stop thinking about this before Asuka notices... (Looks down and then turns his body away)

Asuka: (Noticing what Shinji is doing) Something wrong?

Shinji: Oh... it's nothing. (Has an idea to get his mind off of Asuka's swimsuit) Let's finish our homework, guys, and then play some video games. Who knows how much time we're gonna have to do that in the future...

Rei: Brother does have a point. Our free time will be reduced.

Asuka: Well, let's get to work!

Asuka, Rei, and Shinji get started on their homework and then spend some time together playing video games. That night, Misato and Kaji snuggle together and then go to sleep. All three kids fall asleep quickly, due to the lack of noise of the apartment.

The next day, the kids head off for school and the day passes by slowly. They use their laptop computers to instant message each other to pass the time... Hikari and Toji in particular.

Author Note: DeepBlue is Rei's screen name, SDAT01 is Shinji's screen name, BigRed is Asuka's screen name, BBALL is Toji's screen name, AK47 is Kensuke's screen name, and ClassRep is Hikari's screen name.

ClassRep: I heard you have some swimming lessons today after school.

BBALL: Yeah... I guess we can't go out on that date. How about tomorrow?

ClassRep: Sounds good.

SDAT01 has joined the chat room.

SDAT01: Hikari, you can join us at the pool, Misato said it was okay...

ClassRep: That's nice of you, Shinji...

SDAT01: Actually, it was Asuka's idea.

BigRed has joined the chat room.

BigRed: Yeah, it was my idea. Join us Hikari, it'll be fun. Besides, I know you wouldn't pass up a chance to swim, especially if a certain someone was there...

ClassRep:...

BBALL:...

SDAT01: Hey, what are Rei and Kensuke doing?

BigRed: Dunno.

Asuka looks around the room and finds Kensuke and Rei both typing away at their own computers. She types in some commands on her computer and invites them into the chat room...

DeepBlue and AK47 have joined the chat room.

BigRed: What are you two up to?

DeepBlue: I was talking with Kensuke...

AK47: Yeah. I heard we have a busy training schedule from now on.

SDAT01: You can say that again.

The bell rings, indicating that it is lunchtime...

SDAT01: It's lunch time... let's eat together in the classroom.

Asuka and the other teens turn off their computers and eat lunch together. Time passes and school day is soon over. Asuka and Shinji are the first ones to make their way down to the changing rooms of the NERV swimming pool. Shinji is done changing first and sits down in a chair at a table next to the pool.

Author Note: This is the same swimming pool in Episode 10: Magma Diver. The chair and table are the same as well.

Asuka walks in a minute later in her red and white striped bathing suit. She notices Shinji sitting down at the table and walks up to the table, stopping about two feet away from Shinji. She bends over and stares at Shinji, giving him a nice view of her chest...

Shinji: (Turning red as he stares at Asuka) W-What are y-you doing, Asuka? (To himself) God she looks so hot in that swimsuit of hers... what I wouldn't give to pull on that zipper... AARGH! Must stop hentai thoughts!

Asuka: (Continuing to stare at Shinji) Mmm... just testing a theory.

Shinji: (Confused) Huh?

Asuka: (Moving a little closer) Does this situation ring a bell? Think about, Shinji... I remember I was working on a problem for you at this same table... but I forgot what it was all about...

Shinji: (Immediately recalling the problem in question) Um... it had to do with thermal expansion...

Asuka: (Snaps her fingers) Exactly! I see you're doing exactly what you did last year while I solved the problem... staring at my chest.

Shinji: ASUKA! I was... (Gulps)... noticing it now, but I wasn't looking the last time.

Asuka: (Stands up straight and flashes him a smile) Oh, please, Shinji... I have your memories. You reacted just like you did last time... don't deny it. You couldn't help but stare... and add your own expansion as well. (Scratches her chin) Come to think of it, you peeked in on me when I was changing on that ship where we first met. (Gets in front of Shinji's face) (Playfully) You are a little hentai, aren't you?

Shinji: No worse than you... if I recall right from your memories- you picked that yellow dress to show off, even though you knew it was a windy day...

Asuka: (Caught off guard, her cheeks turn red) Shinji... I... umm...

Shinji: In fact... (Thinking out loud while Asuka's cheeks redden) I think your exact words were "Now to give those little boys something to look at... time for them to see a real woman."

Asuka: (Very embarrased) Umm... don't change the subject. You're a little peeping tom, aren't you?

Shinji: (Totally caught, he cannot lie about his past actions) (Blushing) Ummm... well... I... maybe... (Clears his throat and takes a deep breath) Asuka, I'm sorry... but I couldn't help but stare at your beautiful body...

Asuka: (Blushes slightly) (To herself) He can't get enough of me... this makes me wonder why he didn't try and go out with me back then... I guess he was still too timid and I was too full of myself before 3I to give him a real chance...

While Asuka is thinking to herself and just standing there, Shinji has an idea. She just used his own memories of last year's incident here at the pool against him and that other incident, so why can't he do the same back to her? A broad smile forms on Shinji's face as he stands up, walks over to the edge of the pool, and then turns around...

Shinji: Asuka.

Asuka: Yes, Shinji?

Shinji: I remember something from last year, too. You were trying to get me to make a hentai comment about you...

Asuka: You wish, Shinji. I would have never tried to do that; I only teased you back then because I was unsure of my feelings and still not ready for love.

Shinji: (Moving very close to Asuka) Really? I seem to remember a certain redhead talking about thermal expansion...

Asuka: We already talked about that, Shinji...

Shinji: You asked me a question, which I haven't forgotten to this day. Now that I have your memories, I know the whole story... from both sides.

Asuka: What are you talking about?

Shinji: (Whispers in Asuka's ear) You asked me a question. (Quoting Asuka from last year) If I were to warm up my breasts with my hands, do you think they would grow bigger or smaller? Weren't you also thinking about a certain part of my anatomy as well?

Asuka turns very red after Shinji finishes speaking- she realizes that he was right and that she did try and get him to make a hentai comment that last time. She quickly gives him a push and he falls into the swimming pool...

Shinji: (Loudly) Hey!

Asuka: That's what you get for bringing that up again, Shinji...

Shinji: You're the hentai here, not me...

Asuka moves up to the edge of the pool and begins to laugh at Shinji, who is now standing in the shallow water.

To see a picture of Asuka laughing at Shinji, go to picture 40 on NGE picture page 5 of my website...

Shinji: (With a smile) I think they'd get bigger.

Asuka: (Angry) Why you!

Shinji takes this momentary distraction to pull Asuka into the pool. She begins to splash Shinji without mercy. He splashes back and both begin to wrestle with each other. Hikari walks into the room and notices what they are doing...

Hikari: (Softly to herself) Looks like a lover's quarrel to me...

Shinji stops for a moment and stares at Asuka. His hands are on her shoulders, and he is looking right into her eyes...

Shinji: Asuka...

Asuka: (Loudly) What?

Shinji: Y-you are so much fun to be around...

Asuka: Really? (Shinji nods his head) (Wraps her arms around him) So are you. I think I'm beginning to rub off on you...

Shinji doesn't verbally respond but pulls her into a hug. He thinks to himself... 'She may be right... but I think I'm just becoming more comfortable with things like that. I know deep down inside she likes it when I'm bold about these things... it shows that her "training" has paid off...'

Hikari: (Looking down at the couple) Awww! How cute!

Asuka: (With her face still a little red) Oh, just be quiet!

Toji walks into the room and immediately walks up to Hikari. He cannot help but smile, this is the first time he has seen her in her school swimsuit up close...

Toji: (Nervously) You, um, look very nice, Hikari...

Hikari: (Blushes and moves her arms in front of her) Thank you...

To see what Hikari looks like here, go to picture 136 on NGE picture page 17...

Asuka takes advantage of the exchange between Toji and Hikari by sneaking up behind Hikari and pulling her into the pool. She immediately begins yelling at Asuka while Shinji and Toji look on. The last two teens come into the room, hand in hand...

Kensuke: I wonder what we're missing?

Rei: It looks like Asuka and Hikari are having a heated exchange.

Kensuke: Come on, Rei, I want to see what's going on...

Kensuke and Rei walk up to the pool and look on at the arguing teen girls. Shinji notices where Kensuke is standing and motions him to push Toji into the pool. Feeling a little bit mischievous, he quietly gets behind Toji and pushes him into the water...

Toji: (Sputtering water out of his mouth, yells loudly) I'm gonna get you for that, Kensuke!

Shinji: Well, it looks like everyone's been pushed into the pool.

Kensuke: (Proudly) Except for me!

Rei: That is not correct, Kensuke...

Rei pushes Kensuke into the water and then smiles at him. The other teens begin to laugh at Kensuke's misfortune....

Rei: I am the only one not in the pool.

Asuka: (To Shinji) It looks like your sister is really beginning to pick up a sense of humor...

Shinji: Yeah, she is...

Rei cannot help but overhear what Asuka just said. She feels good inside as a result of Asuka's comment. Humor is one of the things that she is trying to master...

Toji: (Dunking Kensuke's head under the water and bringing it back up) How do you like that?

Kensuke: (Breathing heavily) This isn't over!

Kensuke gives a quick push off with his legs and swims away. Toji falls backward as a result of the push and floats in the water next to Hikari. Rei hops down into the pool and heads towards Kensuke...

Rei: Are you okay, Ken-kun?

Kensuke: Yeah.

Hikari: (Looking at Toji) Toji, you all right?

Toji: (Holding himself between his legs) Not quite...

Hikari: Would you like some...

Hikari noticed where he is holding himself and she cut herself off as she turned very red. Toji chuckled in pain. "I think I'm alright..."

A moment later, a mysterious man steps out in the pool area from the men's locker room. He walks towards the teens that are playing around in the pool...

Man: I see you guys are already warming up in the pool... (Chuckles)

Shinji: Um, who are you?

Asuka: Yeah, spill mister!

Man: I'm Jack Matsumoto, your new swimming instructor. I was hired by NERV to assist you in your swim training...

All six teens look at the new swim instructor. A middle-aged man of about forty, he is of average height and above normal build. He looks down at Asuka and smiles...

Jack: You must be Asuka...

Asuka: (Folds her arms in front of her chest) How do you know that?

Jack: Everyone knows the "famous second child"...

Asuka: (Flattered) Of course!

Rei: What is on the agenda for our training?

Jack: Well... I'm here to demonstrate and help you learn advanced swimming techniques and to help you guys build your endurance.

Toji: Oh, okay...

Hikari: Did you want me to swim somewhere else while you guys' train?

Jack: Actually, I would like you to join us. I think your boyfriend over there wants you to join us, too...

Toji: (Blushing) Well...

Hikari: (Turning red) Sure. I could use the practice...

Kensuke: How do you know who we are?

Jack: I was briefed before coming down here. That's how I knew about their relationship.

Shinji: Well, that makes sense...

Jack: Let's get started. We'll start with warm up exercises and go from there...

Jack hops into the pool and begins to demonstrate proper warm-up exercises. All six teens follow his lead as he continues to instruct them. He begins with basic swim techniques after the warm up and has the kids do laps in the pool to build their strength and endurance.

After about an hour of instruction, Jack gives a much-appreciated announcement to the teens, who are now exhausted from all of the swimming that they just did...

Jack: That's all for today... see you guys next time.

Asuka: Thank goodness! I was getting tired...

Toji: Too much for you?

Asuka: (Staring Toji in the eye) No... I was getting tired of you looking at my gorgeous body, baka!

Hikari: (Mad) You were!?

Toji: (Loudly) Of course not, I was looking at you...

Hikari begins to blush and doesn't say a word in reply. Toji notices the look on her face and then speaks again...

Toji: (Nervously) Umm... well, not exactly looking at you, I was... um, watching you just in case you got tired, so you wouldn't drown or anything...

Hikari: (Plants a kiss on his cheek) Thank you for looking out for me...

Shinji & Kensuke: (With mock sweetness) AWWW!!!!

Toji: Buzz off!

Rei: I think we should get changed and get some dinner.

Asuka: Good idea, Rei. Let's get the hell out of here...

The six teens get out of the pool and head towards the locker rooms...

Jack: See you guys next time.

The kids go into their respective changing rooms and change back into their regular clothes. Jack is now sitting at the table, thinking to himself...

Jack: What a group of kids... at least they want to learn...

Back in the girls' locker room, Asuka talks to Hikari as all three girls change clothes...

Asuka: (Nudging Hikari) So, did you try the "bra trick" yet?

Rei: (Curious about what Asuka is talking about) Bra trick? What is that?

Hikari: (Turning away) Oh, it's nothing... just something Asuka used on your brother...

Rei: (Concerned) What did you do to my brother?

Asuka: (Waving her hands around defensively) Relax, Rei, I didn't hurt him or anything. He's actually a better man ever since I did this trick for him... (Turns her attention back to Hikari) Now, tell me what happened Hikari. I want to know...

Hikari: (Slowly turning around to look at Asuka and Rei again) Well, I did the trick...

Asuka: And what bra did you use on Toji?

Hikari: (Blushes) The one I'm wearing now...

Asuka: (Looks at what Hikari is wearing) I see. I guess he must have gotten excited and acted like an idiot, right?

Hikari: Well... yes and no.

Asuka: (Confused) Huh?

Hikari: He did get all goofy when I dropped the bra in his lap... but then after we talked for a moment, he promised to change and we... (Blushes even redder)... kissed...

Rei: I am curious about this trick. Kensuke is comfortable with me now, but he may need some training as well...

Asuka: (Surprised at Rei's comment) Well, I guess, um, I can show you, too...

Rei: Thank you. I shall remember it for future use...

Asuka: Watch and learn...

As Asuka is demonstrating the bra trick to Rei in the girl's locker room, Toji is talking to Shinji about something that just happened to him recently...

Toji: Hey, Shinji, can I ask you something?

Shinji: Of course, go ahead.

Toji: (Blushing lightly) Hikari um... did this... um trick for me... and I think she learned it from Asuka...

Shinji: (Sighs out loud) Looks like Asuka can't help but teach everyone her bra trick...

Kensuke: (Ears perking up) Bra trick? Tell me more!

Shinji: (Defensively) No!!!! This is personal!

Kensuke: (Pleading) Oh, come on, Shinji, tell me...

Shinji: No.

Kensuke: (Changing targets) What happened, Toji?

Toji gives in and talks to Kensuke, he had wanted to talk about this with Shinji a moment ago...

Toji: Well, Hikari invited me up to her room and then we sat down on the bed next to each other...

Kensuke: (Paying rapt attention) Go on.

Toji: She starts to do this trick... her arms went into her blouse and they started to move around. Like thirty seconds later, she pulls her bra out of her sleeve and drops it on my lap...

Kensuke: Wow, that's cool... (Continues to pry about the incident) What kind of bra was it?

Toji: (Blushing) It... it was this sexy looking white lace bra... (Pauses and then has an idea)... wait a minute, why in the hell should I tell you what my girlfriend is wearing? (Loudly) Don't you have Rei?

Kensuke: Of course I do... but I want to know what this trick is all about, in case Rei decides to pull it on me...

Shinji: Kensuke!

Kensuke: Shinji, you can't really say anything. After all, Asuka is the one who started showing off this trick... (Nudges Shinji)... and I bet you got to see something very nice.

Shinji: (Blushing) Well, I um, guess I did...

Kensuke: See, I was right! Toji, what happened after she dropped that bra in your lap?

Toji: Well, I picked up and I couldn't help myself, I started to drool. She made some comment about Asuka saying I would do that...

Kensuke: Then what happened?

Toji: I apologized and said I would change... and then we... (Blushes)... made out like jack rabbits...

Kensuke: (Slyly) Looks like someone's sliding into second base...

Toji: (Blushing) Oh, get real, Kensuke. Hikari may be getting a little bolder, but we aren't doing anything like that...

Kensuke looks over at Shinji and notices that he is also blushing...

Kensuke: I bet Shinji over here is getting closer every night... you are so lucky, man! You get to be with your girlfriend every night in the same bed! I bet you two are at 2nd base at least...

Shinji: (Very red) N-n-nooo, we aren't there yet...

Toji: (Not believing Shinji) Come on, Shinji, you can tell us...

Shinji: (Getting agitated) I said we aren't there yet, despite what you think. Asuka may be a bit more forward then your girlfriends, but that doesn't mean anything more has happened between us...

Kensuke: (Shaking his head in disbelief) Whatever, Shinji...

Shinji: (Sighs) Let's get going... I'm sure the girls are waiting for us...

The three guys finish changing and head out into the main hallway, where Asuka, Rei, and Hikari are patiently waiting for them. The group then heads through NERV and makes their way towards a monorail back to the surface. When they get on the train, the topic of where to eat comes up immediately...

Rei: Where should we go for dinner?

Asuka: Oh, I know! We should go to that ramen place that Misato took us to a while back! It was good...

Shinji: Sounds good to me. (Looks at Hikari, Kensuke, and Toji) What about you guys?

Hikari: It's fine with me...

Kensuke: Same.

Toji: Okay.

Asuka: (Happily) Then ramen it is!

The kids head over to that ramen place for dinner and have a wonderful meal. While they are eating, Misato and Kaji are busy back at the apartment...

Misato: My legs are so sore... I can barely walk.

Kaji: (Hugs Misato from behind and wraps his arms around her stomach) (Whispering in her ear) Guess I can make you work pretty hard, huh, Misato...

Misato: You can say that again. I'm glad we're done... that was exhausting!

Kaji: (Taking a deep breath) It was... but I think it was worth it.

Misato: Uh-huh.

Kaji: I feel a lot better now...

Misato: Yeah... now we don't have to worry about "our" noises being heard, the stupid soundproof walls are now in.

Kaji: True. We won't have to worry about Asuka and Shinji double teaming us about this anymore...

Misato: (Nervously) Umm... they weren't the only ones who heard us...

Kaji: You mean Rei heard us too?

Misato: (Nodding her head) Yeah...

Kaji: (Placing a kiss on Misato's cheek) We don't have to worry anymore... right Mrs. Kaji?

Misato: (Blushing) We aren't officially married yet...

Kaji: (Softly) I know. I was just practicing...

Misato: (Softly) Kaji...

Misato turns around and begins to passionately kiss Kaji. He replies with kisses of his own and they start to really get into it. Asuka, Shinji, and Rei arrive back at the apartment and open the door...

Asuka: (Looking at Misato and Kaji) Get a room!

Misato and Kaji: Good idea. We'll be out later...

Asuka: Jeez...

Kaji walks into the bedroom and Misato follows right behind him. She briefly says something to Asuka on her way in...

Misato: Don't worry Asuka, it's soundproofed now. (Winks) Gotta go... (Turns around and heads into her bedroom)

Asuka hears the door shut and lock, then sighs out loud...

Asuka: Well, at least they soundproofed the room. Now we can actually sleep!

Shinji: (Looks at Asuka and Rei) What did you two want to do?

Asuka: I'm tired... why don't we watch TV together?

Shinji: Sure. That was quite a workout earlier...

Rei: I will get us some drinks...

Asuka: Thanks, Rei.

Rei nods her head and then gets some drinks for the trio. All three end up sitting in front of the television and vegetating for the rest of the night. When it's time for bed, Rei heads off to her room to go to bed. Shinji and Asuka change in their rooms and then Shinji knocks on Asuka's door...

Asuka: Come in!

Shinji opens the door and walks into Asuka's room. He is surprised to see his SDAT player in Asuka's hands...

Asuka: Shin-chan, come here. (Pats her hand on the bed)

Shinji moves towards the bed and sits down next to Asuka. He notices the smile on her face and wonders why she is in such a good mood...

Shinji: I was wondering where my SDAT player went...

Asuka: Sorry to make you worry... but I have a surprise for you.

Shinji: (Very curious) What is it?

Asuka: I burned one of my songs from one of my old CD's onto a cassette, so we could listen to it together.

Asuka pulls the covers up and Shinji gets under the blanket. She lowers the blanket and places the SDAT player on top of the blanket...

Asuka: Turn off the light, Shinji.

Shinji turns off the light and the only light in the room is the glow of the moon coming through the windows...

Shinji: What's the surprise?

Asuka: (Handing him the left headphone) Put this in your ear, and I'll place the other in my ear. I want us to listen to this song together.

Shinji: (Following Asuka's instructions) Okay.

Asuka presses play and the music soon begins to flow through the earphones...

(Verse 1)

Like a movie scene

In the sweetest dream

Have pictured us together

Now to feel your lips

On my fingertips

I have to say is even better

Than I ever thought it could be

It's perfect, it's passion, it's setting me free

From all of my sadness

The tears that I've cried

I have spent all of my life

Chorus:

Waiting for tonight, oh

When you would be here in my arms

Waiting for tonight, oh

I've dreamed of this love for so long

Waiting for tonight

(Verse 2)

Tender words you say

Take my breath away

Love me now, leave me never

Found a sacred place

Lost in your embrace

I want to stay in this forever

I think of the days when the sun used to set

On my empty heart, all alone in my bed

Tossing and turning

Emotions were strong

I knew I had to hold on

(Chorus is played twice)

Gone are the days when the sun used to set

On my empty heart, all alone in my bed

Tossing and turning

Emotions were strong

I knew I had to hold on

(Chorus and then the song ends)

Shinji looks at Asuka after the song ends and realizes why she went through all of this trouble- she wanted to convey her feelings to him. Shinji begins to caress her hair as she snuggles up to his chest. A small sigh escapes Asuka's lips as she gets comfortable and begins to fall asleep...

Asuka: (Softly) Whadda yah think? (Removes the earbud from her ear, Shinji does the same)

Shinji: (Softly) Very nice, Asuka... (Takes the SDAT player and places it on the nightstand next to the bed)

Asuka: Glad you liked it... (Yawns) Good night, Shin-chan.

Shinji: Good night, Asuka.

Shinji looks down at his sleeping girlfriend and smiles. She has shown her deepest, inner-most feelings to him... only he gets to see those feelings and that side of her personality. He adjusts the covers and then lies down and falls asleep, dreaming of the future and what could happen...

To be continued in Chapter 25: Winter Cleaning