Shinji

"You've been looking pretty radiant lately. I thought you might have trouble adjusting after the personnel changes."

Misato Katsuragi looked at Airi Suzuki, whose rosy complexion was full of collagen and so elastic it seemed she could bounce a finger off it. She sounded a little envious.

NERV's power had been rapidly consolidated. As an important member of Operations Division Section One, Misato's authority had also expanded rapidly. She had been promoted to major, putting her on the same level as Airi, and had even become Tao Yu's direct superior, responsible for the Cores' daily lives and safety.

That was why she had so many things to hand over. She was rushed off her feet, and she couldn't even sleep well at night. She'd developed dark circles under her eyes.

Now, seeing Airi's skin looking so smooth and supple, Misato felt a little resentful.

Why was Airi the one who got to sleep soundly?

They'd only just been attacked by an Angel!

"How could I not? I actually think my life is much better now. If anything happens, you guys will handle it. It doesn't have much to do with us regular military personnel anymore."

Airi sounded a little languid. She yawned lazily, a hint of allure in the corners of her eyes.

In fact, as a double agent, she had plenty of other tasks besides looking after Tao Yu.

Because of Tao Yu's outrageous performance in the battle against the Angel,

the Hidden Leaf Village had suddenly received a great deal more attention.

Airi had already been working for the Human Instrumentality Committee, and now one of its members had approached her directly with questions.

They had specifically asked how much control Airi had over Tao Yu, and ordered her to maintain an emotional hold over him at all