"There is an unknown type of energy being radiated from the target point." says the 1st Ofc. "The explosion energy is being absorbed!"

"That's IMPOSSIBLE!!" snorts the 3rd General.

"Video image form target is resolving." says the 1st Ofc.

"OOOHHHH ....!" the Generals form a chorus.

"Damn!" chides the 1st General. "Our gamble didn't work. It was useless. "

"We made a sacrifice of the city for nothing." says the Senior General.

"Monster!?" gasps the 1st Ofc.

In the rear of the observation platform the Senior General is in a telephone conference with the political secretariat of the UN. A change in plans is underway.

"Yes Sir." the Senior General responds to the videophone. "I understand."

Ikari Gendo, sitting a few meters away overheard the conversation.

"Yes." says Ikari Gendo under his breath. "However you must forgive my impoliteness, if I may."

He rises out of the chair, turns to face the General, and adjusts his glasses,... bowing his head slightly and staring intently.

".... Dr. Ikari." huffs the Senior General. "From now on, you are in charge of all tactical operations. I will have the honor of receiving your acceptance. The UN Political Command has obediently admitted that the UN Force's weapons are useless against such a target as the Angel.

The General adds in a moment of sarcasm.

The situation has become convenient for you hasn't it, Ikari!"

"Sir." says Ikari Gendo. "This problem has become a matter for NERV to deal with."

" `Special Operations, N-E-R-V?' " reads Shinji from the top screen of the NEOM-PDA. "So it's like NERV is a secret organization under the direct control of the United Nations ... ." asks Shinji.

"I'm also an employee of NERV." says Misato. "And so is your Father."

" `Defending Humanity is the Greatest Calling' '". reads Shinji from the PDA. "Those are very true words aren't they?"

"What's that ... you being cynical or something?" asks Misato.

"Especially ... well ... I'm sorry." says Shinji.

"Ms Katsuragi ..." Shinji injuires.

"mmm ?... you can call me Misato." says Misato in a school-girl tone.

"Father; can you tell me what he's like?" asks Shinji. "I ... I guess I don't really have any memories of him."

Their journy into NERV has thus far been like a maze of short stretches of corridors and abrubt turns.

"Well, ... we're heading directly to your father right now." says Misato.

"So it is true that we're going to Father's ... office." says Shinji.

"I guess I'd feel like running away from meeting my father too." says Misato sympathetically. "Especially if it could be troublesome."