"That's right," Ryoji Kaji nodded, "He seems like a rather interesting fellow."
"Wait, what…?"
Ritsuko Akagi and Misato Katsuragi exchanged a quick glance, both clearly shocked.
Only now did they seem to remember Kaji's official identity—the UN-appointed Chief Inspector assigned to NERV, endowed with full administrative and legal authority.
Could it be that Kaji had come back… to deal with Ryota Kitazawa?
Ritsuko remained composed, but Misato's expression darkened instantly, her face taking on a pale grey tone.
The next second, she fixed Kaji with a piercing stare, as if trying to read something hidden deep in his eyes.
"Heh, Misato. There's no need to be so tense," Kaji said with a soft smile. "Truthfully, I'm just curious about this so-called 'hero of humanity.' That's all."
"You'd better be," Misato said through gritted teeth, though a bit of relief washed over her internally. As long as Ryota Kitazawa wasn't under direct scrutiny, she could relax—somewhat. After all, everything he had done up to now could be considered monumental.
Of course, Kaji wasn't oblivious. Watching Misato's expression and behavior closely, he immediately understood.
So… she really has fallen for that kid, huh?
Of course. That boy isn't ordinary.
Kaji made a mental note of it.
---
After leaving the Technology Division, Kaji made his way toward the Commander's Office at NERV HQ.
Someone had been waiting for him.
The moment Kaji had returned to NERV, word had quietly spread up the chain. Yet, no summons had been issued. No aides sent to greet him.
Because both parties understood—this was a battle of psychological endurance. The bigger the stakes, the greater the need for restraint.
That man, without question, was Gendo Ikari, Supreme Commander of NERV.
Kaji stepped through the office doors, still wearing a relaxed smile as he approached the desk.
"Welcome back, Kaji. Welcome back to NERV Japan Headquarters," Gendo said calmly, his voice deep and cool.
"Heh… I, Ryoji Kaji, have returned—and naturally, I've brought you a gift," Kaji said with his trademark smirk.
He didn't bother with formalities. Reaching into his coat, he pulled out a small box, placing it directly in front of Gendo.
Gendo's eyes were immediately drawn to the container—not because of the gesture, but because of what was inside.
This was no ordinary object.
"This is what we agreed upon," Kaji said casually. "And Bethany Base has been wiped out—there's no longer any evidence that the key is in your possession."
Gendo didn't flinch. His expression remained unreadable, his gaze still fixed on the box.
He opened it slowly.
Inside, resting in a soft glow, was an object that radiated a strange and sacred aura—a key.
"Yes… this is it," Gendo whispered, voice trembling slightly. "The symbol that connects god and soul. The key that opens the door to the Human Instrumentality Project—the Key of Nebuchadnezzar."
He cradled the object in his hand as though it were a divine relic, eyes gleaming with reverence.
The Key of Nebuchadnezzar—a sacred artifact. Now held tightly in Gendo's hand, his heartbeat surged with anticipation.
"Heh, since the item's been delivered, I guess that concludes my role," Kaji said nonchalantly. "But be careful—Europe won't take this lightly. After Bethany Base's destruction, someone is bound to suspect you. You'll need to watch your step."
"I will," Gendo replied without looking up. "You've done well, Kaji. You're one of NERV's most capable operatives. You'll remain stationed at Japan Headquarters. No need to return to Europe."
"Much appreciated, Commander," Kaji nodded, then turned and exited the room.
As the door shut behind him, Kozo Fuyutsuki entered silently from a side passage.
"This Kaji… seems trustworthy, don't you think?" Fuyutsuki asked quietly.
"After all, what happened at Bethany Base three months ago was monumental. Even if others were inclined to suspect someone, they'd never dare accuse me directly. Kaji, however… he's the obvious scapegoat. Everyone will see him as a threat. That alone should guarantee his loyalty."
"The Bethany incident was significant, yes," Gendo replied, "but what the world's political powers are really concerned about right now… is the Vatican Accord Conference. It's about to convene."
"The Vatican Conference?" Fuyutsuki scoffed. "Nothing but a glorified power-grab—countries arguing over how to split the spoils."
"Even so," Gendo said coldly, "we'll need to act ahead of schedule—and stay vigilant of outside interference. Especially during the conference."
"Don't worry," Fuyutsuki nodded. "Anyone who becomes a liability—NERV will ensure they don't live long enough to cause trouble."
"Excellent."
---
"Vice Commander! I formally protest!!"
A furious voice echoed through Fuyutsuki's office, loud enough to make the walls shake.
There stood Misato Katsuragi, visibly enraged, her cheeks flushed crimson.
"What's the issue now? I thought it would be nice to have a livelier household. Besides, Asuka's been temporarily transferred from the European branch—she needs someone to help her adjust to life in Japan and get up to speed with operations."
Fuyutsuki spoke in his usual calm, grandfatherly tone.
"No! Absolutely not!" Misato flailed her arms, exasperated. "Ryota Kitazawa lives with me! How could I let Asuka move in, too?!"
Of course. Life had been perfectly peaceful—just her and Kitazawa. If Asuka moved in, things would get very complicated.
Misato was a woman—and she knew this kind of situation came with territorial risk.
"I think it's a great idea, actually," Fuyutsuki smiled. "Misato, this decision is final. Asuka is a foreigner, and under normal circumstances, we wouldn't even deploy an EVA from Europe. But with the Angels appearing in Japan so frequently, we had no choice."
Then his tone darkened slightly.
"Misato, this isn't the time for petty concerns. The fate of all humanity rests on those children's shoulders. You understand that… don't you?"
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