Ch. 1601This Villain Role Is Mine for Sure! (I Need an IV Drip Whenever I Start Coughing)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Fang Zheng, now the God of Games, enters the world of 'New World Evangelion' after completing his tasks in the Nasuverse and the Digital Elf world.
  • He arrives in a post-apocalyptic Tokyo-3, where humanity is fighting against Angels using giant robots called EVAs.
  • Fang Zheng understands that the Second Impact was caused by humanity's recklessness and that the Human Instrumentality Project, driven by a small group, threatens the entire world's existence.

Character Developments

  • Fang Zheng: He becomes more determined to stop the Human Instrumentality Project, driven by his disdain for those who manipulate others without their consent. He also shows his cunning by creating a false identity as SEELE's special envoy to infiltrate NERV.
  • Gendo Ikari: He is furious but helpless against Fang Zheng's intrusion, as removing him would mean losing his position as NERV Commander.

Significant Themes

  • The consequences of humanity's recklessness and ignorance.
  • The dangers of manipulation and lack of consent in decision-making processes that affect the many.
  • The struggle between individual ideals and the greater good.

Character Interactions

  • Fang Zheng and Gendo Ikari: Their interaction is tense, with Gendo Ikari resentful of Fang Zheng's presence and Fang Zheng enjoying his manipulation of Gendo Ikari.
  • Fang Zheng and the world's inhabitants: Fang Zheng's interactions with the world's inhabitants are minimal, but he shows concern for their well-being and determination to protect them from the Human Instrumentality Project.

Ch. 1602I'm Not Just Going to Kill You (Why Is It Hot Again Today?)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Fang Zheng arrives at NERV, establishing a department to care for the pilots.
  • He discovers NERV's ultimate secret: the EVAs.
  • Fang Zheng identifies the cause of Unit-00's frequent berserking: defects at the soul level due to it being the first completed prototype.
  • Fang Zheng meets Rei Ayanami and decides to improve her living conditions.

Character Developments

  • Fang Zheng: Asserts his role as the pilots' surrogate guardian, focusing on their daily lives and studies.
  • Rei Ayanami: Maintains her detached and emotionless demeanor, showing no concern for her poor living conditions.

Significant Themes

  • The treatment and care of the EVA pilots, highlighting the disparity between their importance and their living conditions.
  • The mystery and causes behind Unit-00's frequent berserking.

Character Interactions

  • Fang Zheng and Rei Ayanami: Fang Zheng greets Rei and decides to improve her living situation, while Rei remains indifferent.
  • Fang Zheng and Gendo Ikari: Fang Zheng's presence is reluctantly accepted by Gendo, who is initially furious about his arrival.

Ch. 1603I Still Have to Spend Your Money Today (I Still Need Another IV Drip Today)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • NERV begins official operations without any major incidents, allowing Fang Zheng to spend the budget freely.
  • Fang Zheng requests and receives an official vehicle and a high-rise apartment for the EVA pilots.
  • Rei Ayanami moves into the new apartment with Fang Zheng, who teaches her to cook and eat together.
  • Fang Zheng introduces meditation to Rei to help her stabilize her mind and soul.

Character Developments

  • Fang Zheng: Shows his ability to manage resources and care for the pilots, demonstrating his competence as their manager and teacher.
  • Rei Ayanami: Begins to show more self-awareness and initiative, indicating that her mind and soul are integrating.

Significant Themes

  • The importance of proper care and management for the EVA pilots' mental and physical well-being.
  • The integration of Rei's mind, soul, and body, reflecting her growing self-awareness and independence.

Character Interactions

  • Fang Zheng and Rei Ayanami: Fang Zheng takes on a parental role, teaching Rei how to cook, eat, and meditate. Their bond strengthens as Rei becomes more comfortable around him.
  • Gendo Ikari and Rei Ayanami: Gendo's attempts to connect with Rei are rebuffed, highlighting his growing frustration and jealousy of Fang Zheng's influence over her.

Ch. 1604Do You Dare Move? (My Cold Still Hasn't Fully Cleared Up, and Now I've Got Internal Heat Too)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Rei Ayanami's first official activation test with Unit-00 begins.
  • Unit-00 goes out of control during the test, exhibiting rejection responses and causing concern among the staff.
  • Rei Ayanami successfully tames Unit-00 and regains control, completing the test.
  • An Angel is spotted, signaling the deployment of Unit-00.

Character Developments

  • Rei Ayanami demonstrates her ability to control Unit-00, showing growth and determination.
  • Gendo Ikari's blood pressure increases due to Fang Zheng's closeness with Rei Ayanami.
  • Ritsuko Akagi becomes more interested in Fang Zheng's meditation training for Rei Ayanami after witnessing its effectiveness.

Significant Themes

  • The struggle for control between Rei Ayanami and Unit-00, symbolizing the battle between humanity and the unknown.
  • The power of mental strength and determination, as seen in Rei Ayanami's successful taming of Unit-00.
  • The tension between Gendo Ikari and Fang Zheng, reflecting the conflict between authority and individuality.

Character Interactions

  • Fang Zheng supports and guides Rei Ayanami, leading to a closer relationship between them.
  • Gendo Ikari's disapproval of Fang Zheng's closeness with Rei Ayanami causes him distress.
  • Ritsuko Akagi and Fang Zheng share a mutual respect, with Ritsuko becoming more open to Fang Zheng's unconventional methods.

Ch. 1605No Chance for You to Take the Stage (Still Need More Injections Today)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • The first battle against the Third Angel, "Little Watery," is about to commence.
  • Rei Ayanami, piloting Unit-00, is prepared for the mission.
  • The Allied Forces attempt to stop the Angel with an N2 mine, but it's ineffective.
  • Rei Ayanami sorts out and engages the Angel outside Tokyo-3, successfully merging and canceling its AT Field.
  • Unit-00 withstands the Angel's attack and counterattacks, causing significant damage.

Character Developments

  • Fang Zheng: He demonstrates confidence in Rei's abilities, understanding the importance of AT Field strength in EVA combat. He also reveals his role in teaching pilots micro-management and combat strategies.
  • Rei Ayanami: She shows initiative and strategic thinking by engaging the Angel outside Tokyo-3, following Fang Zheng's teachings. Her AT Field strength is revealed to be close to A-class.
  • Gendo Ikari: He's frustrated as his plan for Unit-00 to be defeated and Shinji to intervene doesn't unfold as expected.

Significant Themes

  • The importance of AT Field strength in EVA vs. Angel battles.
  • The role of pilots in micro-management and combat strategies.
  • The contrast between Gendo's plans and the actual events unfolding.

Character Interactions

  • Fang Zheng and Rei Ayanami: Fang Zheng coaches Rei, teaching her combat strategies and expressing confidence in her abilities.
  • Rei Ayanami and Gendo Ikari: Their differing approaches to the battle lead to Gendo's frustration and Rei's success.
  • Fang Zheng and Ritsuko Akagi: They discuss Rei's actions and the effectiveness of her strategy.

Ch. 1606Big Eyeballs Have No Style! (Uncomfortable, Hot, and Tired)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • The Third Angel, a water-like creature, battles Rei Ayanami in Unit-00.
  • The Angel reveals abilities like a retractable lightsaber and eye lasers.
  • Rei Ayanami follows Fang Zheng's orders to prevent the Angel from approaching Tokyo-3.
  • The Angel decides to eliminate Rei Ayanami first, lunging at her with its lightsaber.
  • Unit-00, using a shield and dagger, defends and counterattacks, severing the Angel's arm and destroying its core.
  • The Angel self-destructs, engulfing Unit-00, but it emerges unscathed with minor damage.
  • Shinji Ikari arrives at NERV and is taken in by Misato Katsuragi.

Character Developments

  • Rei Ayanami shows improved combat skills and adaptability, following orders and using new weapons effectively.
  • Shinji Ikari arrives at NERV, meets Rei Ayanami, and starts school life with Fang Zheng as his teacher.
  • Gendo Ikari manipulates Unit-00's repairs to ensure Shinji pilots Unit-01 against the Fourth Angel.

Significant Themes

  • The effectiveness of melee combat against Angels.
  • The importance of following orders and maintaining vigilance in battle.
  • The manipulation of events by higher authorities (Gendo Ikari).

Character Interactions

  • Rei Ayanami and the Angel engage in a strategic battle, with Rei adapting to the Angel's abilities.
  • Fang Zheng, Ritsuko Akagi, and Misato Katsuragi discuss combat strategies and weaponry.
  • Shinji Ikari meets Rei Ayanami, and they start school together under Fang Zheng's supervision.
  • Gendo Ikari manipulates events to ensure Shinji pilots Unit-01, furthering his plans.

Ch. 1607Misato Katsuragi, You Don't Understand the Human Heart (Feeling Much Better Today)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Shinji Ikari pilots Evangelion Unit-01 for the first time against the Fourth Angel, initially struggling but ultimately defeating it.
  • Shinji disobeys Misato's retreat order to save Toji and his friends, killing the Fourth Angel.
  • Fang Zheng intervenes in Misato's argument with Shinji, defending Shinji's actions and criticizing Misato's approach.
  • Shinji asks Fang Zheng if he did something wrong, leading to a conversation about his feelings and responsibilities.
  • Shinji moves in with Fang Zheng, revoking Misato as his guardian.

Character Developments

  • Shinji: Struggles with his new role as an EVA pilot, feels overwhelmed by the responsibility of saving humanity. He begins to open up to Fang Zheng.
  • Misato: Realizes her shortcomings in handling Shinji and his role as a pilot. She steps back and allows Fang Zheng to take over Shinji's guardianship.
  • Fang Zheng: Shows a more caring and understanding side towards Shinji, providing guidance and support.

Significant Themes

  • Responsibility and duty: Shinji grapples with the weight of his new role as an EVA pilot, and Misato struggles with her role as his supervisor.
  • Communication and understanding: Misato's lack of understanding of Shinji's feelings leads to conflict, while Fang Zheng's empathy helps Shinji open up.
  • Guardianship and mentorship: Misato's inability to provide the support Shinji needs leads to him seeking guidance from Fang Zheng.

Character Interactions

  • Shinji and Misato: Their relationship becomes strained due to Misato's demanding approach and lack of understanding of Shinji's feelings.
  • Shinji and Fang Zheng: They develop a mentor-mentee relationship, with Fang Zheng providing guidance, understanding, and support to Shinji.
  • Misato and Fang Zheng: They clash over their approaches to handling Shinji, with Fang Zheng criticizing Misato's methods.

Ch. 1608Shinji Ikari's Training Plan (His Body Was Slowly Recovering)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Fang Zheng, a new trainer, takes over Shinji Ikari's training, emphasizing the importance of learning to take hits and honing intuition for combat.
  • Shinji is subjected to intense, daily training, including a "Hell Spartan" regimen to prevent overthinking.
  • Shinji's first battle after training involves the Fifth Angel, where he successfully dodges an attack using his newly honed reflexes.

Character Developments

  • Shinji Ikari: Becomes more physically fit and gains combat intuition, overcoming his initial reluctance to fight.
  • Fang Zheng: Proves to be an effective trainer, using a combination of tough love and incentives to push Shinji's limits.
  • Misato Katsuragi: Realizes the extent of Shinji's improvement and is surprised by his immediate response to her order.

Significant Themes

  • The importance of physical training and combat experience in piloting EVAs.
  • The psychological aspect of combat, including intuition and fear management.
  • The impact of intense training on Shinji's mental state and overall growth.

Character Interactions

  • Shinji and Fang Zheng: The trainer-student relationship is established, with Fang Zheng pushing Shinji to his limits while showing genuine concern for his well-being.
  • Shinji and Misato: Misato witnesses Shinji's growth and is impressed by his immediate response to her order.
  • Shinji and Toji Suzuhara: Toji and his friends play a role in Shinji's training by delivering "Thousand Years of Death" attacks, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared experience.

Ch. 1609What Is This? (Stopped the Injections, Started Taking Medicine)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • The fifth Angel is both offensive and defensive, and its superior strength makes it impossible for Unit-00 and Unit-01 to attack effectively.
  • Misato orders a temporary retreat, and the Angel begins drilling into the underground facility.
  • Misato plans to use the Positron Cannon to take down the Angel from a distance.
  • Fang Zheng briefs Shinji and Rei about Operation Yashima, involving the use of the Positron Cannon and a Shield.
  • Operation Yashima commences, with Evangelion Unit-01 firing the Positron Cannon at the Angel. Neither side hits their target initially.
  • The Angel's attack is faster than expected, and Unit-00 shields Unit-01. A mysterious barrier appears, blocking the Angel's attack.
  • Shinji fires the Positron Cannon again, destroying the Angel's core, and it falls.
  • Rei and Unit-00 are sent back to the base for further examination.

Character Developments

  • Shinji shows more resolve and confidence, eager to take revenge on the Angel.
  • Rei reveals that she pilots the EVA because she has nothing else to do.
  • Fang Zheng provides guidance to Shinji and Rei, encouraging them to learn and experience different aspects of life to decide their future.

Significant Themes

  • The struggle against the Angels and the search for a way to defeat them.
  • The exploration of Shinji and Rei's motivations and futures.
  • The discovery of a mysterious barrier that appears during the battle, hinting at unknown abilities of the EVAs.

Character Interactions

  • Shinji and Rei discuss their reasons for piloting the EVAs.
  • Fang Zheng provides guidance and support to Shinji and Rei, helping them understand their roles and futures.
  • Misato, Ritsuko, and the NERV staff discuss the mysterious barrier and its implications.

Ch. 1610Make an Appearance (The Pain of Reducing Medication)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • After the Fifth Angel's destruction, life resumes normally for most, but Ritsuko Akagi and others continue investigating the mysterious blue shield that blocked the Angel's attack.
  • Rei Ayanami remains at NERV headquarters for investigation, but Fang Zheng assures Shinji Ikari of her safety.
  • Fang Zheng takes Shinji Ikari and Misato Katsuragi to the Pacific Fleet to retrieve EVA Unit-02. They encounter Asuka Langley Soryu, the Second Child.
  • An Angel attacks the Pacific Fleet, sinking the ship carrying Unit-02 before Shinji and Asuka can board it. The fleet is unable to fight back, and the Commander orders a retreat.

Character Developments

  • Shinji Ikari has physically grown and changed due to Fang Zheng's training, no longer resembling the introverted boy from the original anime.
  • Asuka Langley Soryu is introduced, showing her spirited and proud personality.
  • Misato Katsuragi's ex-boyfriend, Ryoji Kaji, appears, causing tension between them.
  • Fang Zheng remains calm and collected, deciding to intervene when the situation becomes dire.

Significant Themes

  • The investigation into the mysterious blue shield that blocked the Fifth Angel's attack highlights the theme of the unknown and humanity's struggle to understand it.
  • The conflict between Misato Katsuragi and Ryoji Kaji explores themes of trust, betrayal, and the consequences of past actions.
  • The Angel's attack on the Pacific Fleet emphasizes the theme of humanity's vulnerability in the face of overwhelming power.

Character Interactions

  • Shinji Ikari and Asuka Langley Soryu meet for the first time, with Asuka initially treating Shinji with some disdain due to his appearance in photos.
  • Misato Katsuragi and Ryoji Kaji's interaction is tense, with Misato expressing her displeasure at seeing him.
  • Fang Zheng interacts with both Shinji and Asuka, showing a calm and collected demeanor, and decides to intervene when the Pacific Fleet is in danger.

Ch. 1611Believe in Magic, Not Science! (Cephalosporin Upset My Stomach)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • The battle against the Angel is going badly; EVA Unit-02 sinks, and the Angel seems to be searching for something.
  • Ryoji Kaji appears but flees instead of helping, leaving Misato frustrated.
  • Misato orders the evacuation of Asuka and Shinji, but the Angel attacks the aircraft carrier.
  • A mysterious girl with red twin tails appears, fights the Angel with a sword, and ultimately defeats it using powerful magic-like abilities.
  • NERV recalls Misato and holds a meeting to discuss the girl's appearance and power.

Character Developments

  • Misato Katsuragi: Struggles with the dire battle situation, feels helpless, and is later amazed by the girl's power.
  • Ryoji Kaji: Displays cowardice by fleeing instead of helping, further straining his relationship with Misato.
  • The Red Ponytail Girl: Reveals extraordinary combat abilities and magical powers, leaving everyone astonished and questioning their understanding of human capabilities.

Significant Themes

  • The struggle against the Angels and the limits of human understanding and capability.
  • The tension between relying on technology (EVA, NERV) and other, more mysterious or magical forces.
  • The potential threat posed by individuals with unknown powers.

Character Interactions

  • Misato Katsuragi and Ryoji Kaji: Their strained relationship deepens due to Kaji's cowardly actions.
  • Misato Katsuragi and the Red Ponytail Girl: Although they don't interact directly, Misato is amazed and intrigued by the girl's power.
  • NERV staff: They are all shocked by the girl's appearance and powers, leading to a tense discussion at the meeting.

Ch. 1612A Total Mess (So Hungry, So Tired)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • The organizations (SEELE, NERV, UN) are frantically searching for the mysterious girl with a red ponytail who defeated the Sixth Angel.
  • SEELE is particularly anxious, as they fear this girl's power and the existence of a mysterious organization behind her.
  • NERV is under pressure from other organizations due to the girl's appearance, as it raises questions about the necessity of EVAs and NERV's role.
  • Fang Zheng is training Asuka, Rei, and Shinji, with Asuka showing off her speed and Asuka's weapon preference causing concern.

Character Developments

  • Gendo Ikari remains calm and focused on NERV's mission to eliminate Angels, despite SEELE's pressure.
  • Misato Katsuragi understands the dire situation NERV is in due to the girl's appearance.
  • Ritsuko Akagi discovers a connection between the barrier created by the girl and the one that appeared during the fight against the Fifth Angel.
  • Asuka shows her competitive nature and speed during training, while Rei and Shinji show improvement.
  • Fang Zheng demonstrates his understanding of dealing with tsundere personalities like Asuka.

Significant Themes

  • The power struggle between organizations and the fear of the unknown (represented by the girl with the red ponytail).
  • The necessity of EVAs and NERV's role in humanity's survival, which is now being questioned.
  • The importance of training and adaptation in facing the Angel threat.

Character Interactions

  • Gendo Ikari and SEELE members discuss the girl and NERV's mission.
  • Misato Katsuragi and Ritsuko Akagi discuss the impact of the girl's appearance on NERV and the discovery of the barrier connection.
  • Fang Zheng trains Asuka, Rei, and Shinji, with Asuka showing off and Fang Zheng expressing concern about her weapon choice.

Ch. 1613You're Still Young (Your Body Was Still Only Slowly Recovering)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • A massive submerged Angel is detected near the peninsula.
  • NERV deploys Unit-01, Unit-02, and Unit-00 to combat the Angel.
  • The Angel splits into two upon being struck by Unit-02's spear.
  • The Angels exhibit remarkable self-healing abilities, making them difficult to defeat.
  • Fang Zheng guides the pilots, leading to a successful simultaneous attack on both Angels' cores.
  • The battle concludes with the Angels' annihilation.

Character Developments

  • Asuka struggles with self-doubt and pressure, fearing she might cause the operation to fail.
  • Fang Zheng reassures Asuka, acknowledging her efforts and encouraging her to look towards a future beyond piloting EVAs.
  • Shinji and Rei demonstrate improved coordination and combat skills, earning Asuka's respect.

Significant Themes

  • The pressure and expectations placed on the EVA pilots, particularly Asuka.
  • The importance of teamwork and coordination in battle.
  • The search for purpose and identity beyond one's current role.

Character Interactions

  • Asuka seeks solace and guidance from Fang Zheng after the battle.
  • Fang Zheng offers support and encouragement to Asuka, helping her overcome her self-doubt.
  • The three pilots work together to combat the Angels, showcasing improved teamwork.

Ch. 1614Something Was Wrong (Looks Like Cutting Back Won't Work)

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Shinji's birthday is approaching, and Fang Zheng suggests throwing a party.
  • Asuka eagerly agrees, but Rei declines due to her vegetarian diet.
  • Misato declines the invitation due to awkwardness with Shinji.
  • Fang Zheng learns that EVA Unit 03 will be transported from America, and he must go for the reception.
  • Asuka is chosen to pilot Unit 03, but she's upset about potentially losing Unit 02.
  • Fang Zheng and Asuka travel to Matsushiro for Unit 03's activation test.
  • Fang Zheng has a bad feeling about the test and requests a trial run first.

Character Developments

  • Shinji is living his life numbly and barely remembers his birthday.
  • Asuka expresses her desire for liveliness and companionship, hinting at her growing attachment to her new family.
  • Fang Zheng shares his past struggles with Asuka, revealing his own journey of finding his place in the world.
  • Misato feels awkward around Shinji since he moved out.

Significant Themes

  • The importance of companionship and family.
  • The struggle to find one's place in the world.
  • The tension between duty and personal feelings.

Character Interactions

  • Fang Zheng and Asuka bond over their shared past struggles.
  • Asuka expresses her frustration with the potential loss of Unit 02 to Fang Zheng.
  • Misato declines Shinji's birthday invitation due to awkwardness, highlighting the tension in their relationship.
  • Fang Zheng stands up for Asuka's safety, prioritizing her well-being over the test.

Ch. 1615Crisis Arrives (It's Starting to Get Cold Again Today)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • An explosion occurs at Matsushiro Test Field 2, where EVA Unit 3 is being tested.
  • EVA Unit 3 is revealed to be an Angel in disguise, advancing towards NERV HQ.
  • Asuka and Fang Zheng survive the explosion and return to NERV HQ.
  • Shinji, Rei, and Asuka prepare to battle the Angel (EVA Unit 3).
  • A party is held to celebrate Shinji's birthday and Asuka and Fang Zheng's survival.
  • A powerful Angel, the Toilet Paper Angel, breaks through NERV's defenses, setting the stage for a major battle.

Character Developments

  • Shinji becomes more cheerful and confident in his role as an EVA pilot.
  • Rei starts greeting others, showing signs of emotional growth.
  • Asuka's friendship with the class representative deepens.
  • Fang Zheng maintains his calm and collected demeanor, even in crisis situations.

Significant Themes

  • The struggle against the Angels and the cost of survival.
  • The growing unity and camaraderie among the EVA pilots.
  • The looming conflict between various factions as the battle against the Angels nears its end.

Character Interactions

  • Shinji, Rei, and Asuka work together as a team, showing increased trust and understanding.
  • Asuka and Fang Zheng share a moment of understanding after the explosion, leading to Asuka's intense desire for revenge against the Angel.
  • Fang Zheng maintains a friendly yet professional relationship with the other characters, offering guidance and support when needed.

Ch. 1616It's All Gendo Ikari's Fault!

Key Plot Points and Events

  • The Toilet Paper Angel proves to be incredibly strong, overpowering the combined efforts of Unit-01, Unit-02, and Unit-00.
  • A mysterious girl with a red ponytail and a greatsword appears, assisting the EVAs by slicing through the Angel's AT Field.
  • The EVAs coordinate to defeat the Angel, with Unit-02 and Unit-00 delivering the final blows.
  • Gendo Ikari orders the release of the Neuro-Toxin C, a lethal gas, to sterilize the underground space, targeting the red ponytail girl.

Character Developments

  • Asuka demonstrates her determination and skill, leading the charge against the Angel after the red ponytail girl weakens its defenses.
  • Shinji shows improvement in his piloting, working alongside Asuka and Rei to defeat the Angel.
  • Gendo Ikari reveals his willingness to sacrifice the red ponytail girl to achieve his goals, displaying his ruthlessness.

Significant Themes

  • Strength and power: The Angel's immense strength initially overpowers the EVAs, but the red ponytail girl's arrival shifts the balance.
  • Betrayal and trust: Gendo Ikari's order to release the Neuro-Toxin C betrays the red ponytail girl's trust, highlighting the theme of trust and betrayal within NERV.

Character Interactions

  • Asuka and Shinji work together to defeat the Angel, with Asuka scolding Shinji for his initial hesitation.
  • Rei joins the fight without hesitation, demonstrating her unwavering loyalty to the mission.
  • Gendo Ikari's cold, calculated order to release the Neuro-Toxin C contrasts with Misato Katsuragi's visible distress, highlighting their differing moral compasses.

Ch. 1617Heavenly Dao Palace (Happy National Day, Everyone! And While We're at It, Please Send Monthly Votes!)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • A mysterious girl with red hair and a sword appears, saving NERV from the 17th Angel.
  • Gendo orders the EVAs to attack her, despite her helping them.
  • The girl reveals that Gendo and SEELE plan to destroy humanity, warns them, and destroys part of NERV headquarters.
  • NERV staff become chaotic and suspicious of Gendo's intentions.

Character Developments

  • Shinji stands up to his father, refusing to attack the girl.
  • Asuka supports Shinji and the girl, refusing to follow Gendo's orders.
  • Rei disobeys Gendo's order and protects the girl.
  • Gendo's true intentions are exposed, causing NERV staff to question his actions.

Significant Themes

  • Trust and betrayal: Shinji, Asuka, and Rei lose trust in Gendo after learning his true intentions.
  • Power and corruption: Gendo's abuse of power and NERV's corruption are exposed.
  • The greater good: The girl's actions and words challenge Gendo's and SEELE's plans, raising questions about their justification.

Character Interactions

  • Shinji and Asuka stand together against Gendo's orders.
  • Rei disobeys Gendo, showing her loyalty to the girl and humanity.
  • Gendo's relationship with his son, Shinji, becomes further strained.
  • NERV staff question and challenge Gendo's authority.

Ch. 1618Showdown (How Is Everyone Spending the National Day Holiday?)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Fang Zheng lives a leisurely life with the three children while Gendo Ikari faces pressure from the UN.
  • Misato Katsuragi informs Fang Zheng that the Fifth Child, Nagisa Kaworu, has been chosen, and they go to pick him up together.
  • Fang Zheng reveals the true history of the world, the existence of SEELE, and their Human Instrumentality Project to the children and Misato.
  • They encounter the final Angel, the Final Messenger, at the seaside.

Character Developments

  • Fang Zheng: Reveals his true identity and allegiance to the children and Misato, showing his determination to fight against SEELE and the Angels.
  • Misato Katsuragi: Struggles to accept the truth about SEELE and her father's involvement, but agrees to help Fang Zheng.
  • Shinji Ikari, Asuka Langley Soryu, Rei Ayanami: Learn the truth about the world and their roles as EVA pilots, displaying varying reactions of shock, confusion, and determination.

Significant Themes

  • The truth behind the Second Impact and the existence of SEELE.
  • The Human Instrumentality Project and the consequences of SEELE's actions.
  • The struggle between individuality and collectivity, represented by Adam and Lilith.

Character Interactions

  • Fang Zheng and Misato Katsuragi: Misato is initially wary of Fang Zheng but agrees to help him after learning the truth.
  • Fang Zheng and the Children: Fang Zheng reveals the truth to the children, preparing them for their role as EVA pilots.
  • Fang Zheng and the Final Messenger: They face off, with Fang Zheng ready to eliminate the final Angel.

Ch. 1619The Final Messenger (Started Playing Destiny 2)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Fang Zheng confronts Nagisa Kaworu, the last Angel, and defeats him, absorbing Adam's soul fragments.
  • Fang Zheng reveals the truth about the war between Order and Chaos, Adam and Lilith's mission, and the threat of Chaos to the characters in this Sekai.
  • Fang Zheng exposes Gendo Ikari's crimes and arrests him. Gendo commits suicide, and Fang Zheng absorbs the remnants of Adam's body.

Character Developments

  • Fang Zheng: He maintains his role as the invigilator, protecting humanity's future and ensuring their survival. He shows no mercy towards his enemies, even when they have noble motivations.
  • Nagisa Kaworu: He represents the last hope of the Angels but is ultimately defeated by Fang Zheng.
  • Gendo Ikari: His obsession with Yui and his desire to achieve Instrumentality leads him to attempt to destroy humanity. He commits suicide rather than be arrested.
  • Vice Commander Fuyutsuki: He is arrested for supporting the Human Instrumentality Project.

Significant Themes

  • The struggle between Order and Chaos, and humanity's role in maintaining Order.
  • The consequences of obsession and single-minded pursuit of a goal, as seen in Gendo Ikari's character.
  • The importance of humanity's active role in facing challenges and ensuring their survival.

Character Interactions

  • Fang Zheng and Nagisa Kaworu: Their conversation highlights the differences in their beliefs and the paths they choose.
  • Fang Zheng and Gendo Ikari: Their confrontation leads to Gendo's suicide and his soul fragments being absorbed by Fang Zheng.
  • Fang Zheng and the characters in this Sekai: He reveals the truth about the threat of Chaos and seeks their help in his plan.

Ch. 1620Vanguard Battle (Destiny 2 Feels Only Moderately Above Average)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • UN begins monitoring SEELE members and plans to eliminate them.
  • Fang Zheng uses Ratziel to unite anti-SEELE forces within the UN.
  • SEELE plans to occupy NERV, but Fang Zheng has secretly prepared a peacekeeping force.
  • NERV is cut off from the outside world, and Misato Katsuragi takes command.
  • Fang Zheng briefs the EVA pilots about the impending battle against human invaders.

Character Developments

  • Fang Zheng continues to manipulate events using Ratziel, aiming to eliminate SEELE without revealing his origins.
  • Shinji Ikari feels no emotional connection to his father's death, indicating his detachment from Gendo Ikari.
  • Asuka, Rei, and Shinji decide to pilot the EVAs and defend NERV despite the moral complexity of fighting against humans.

Significant Themes

  • Manipulation and control: Fang Zheng uses Ratziel to influence events and people, reflecting the theme of manipulation and control.
  • Moral complexity: The pilots must now fight against fellow humans, raising questions about the morality of their actions.
  • Protection and responsibility: The pilots must protect their colleagues and NERV, emphasizing their sense of responsibility and duty.

Character Interactions

  • Fang Zheng interacts with Misato Katsuragi, entrusting her with the command of NERV during the crisis.
  • The EVA pilots discuss their decision to fight, with Asuka and Rei encouraging Shinji to join them.
  • Fang Zheng reassures the pilots, emphasizing the importance of protecting their colleagues and themselves.
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