Shinji continued, without mercy. "Think about it, Asuka. Ayanami is sterile. It's likely
that Ibuki-san is fertile, but it's the same with her and Kirishima-san. The genes that
allow for Evangelion activation is probably very recessive. Like it or not, you're the
only real option for ensuring the next generation of strong Evangelion pilots. Nagisa
CAN do something with the genetic material, but... he's serious about immortality.
You won't really -need- progeny."
Asuka began cracking her knuckles. "Okay, I am seriously going to have to hurt you
now. If you hold still, you'll go unconscious that much faster and you won't feel much
pain."
Shinji held both hands up in surrender, cringing visibly. "Okay, okay, but really...
that's why you should never look for reasons to love. You just might find it." He
sighed. "And it just... cheapens the miracle of it." He looked up. It was almost
sunrise. "Asuka. I'm... unsure of many things... even afraid... but never about you.
Never about what I feel for you."
"... you... no." She grimaced. "Words. Just... words, Ikari."
"Do you know why I'm not afraid to lose you, Sohryu? Because-" He reached over
and put his hands over her clenched fists. He pulled her back and growled into her
left ear. "You. Are. Mine."
ilold hard
