The Deal

"Deep Abyss..., world fragments..., pioneers..."

Even though Gendo Ikari had been mentally prepared—and had accepted something as extreme as the Human Instrumentality Project—he was still shaken by the news Tao Yu had brought.

"Actually, after piloting Evangelion Unit-01, I've come to understand you a little, Commander."

Tao Yu's sudden change of subject finally stirred Gendo, who had maintained the air of a man in complete control. He lowered his hands.

"Oh? Why bring up Evangelion Unit-01 in particular? And what have you learned about me?"

Since the matter involved Evangelion Unit-01, Gendo couldn't stay calm, but he forced himself to remain composed.

Yui Ikari's being swallowed by Evangelion Unit-01 was classified information, but he and Fuyutsuki weren't the only ones who knew. Someone else might have let it slip.

Knowing how suspicious Gendo could be, Tao Yu didn't keep him guessing. He continued directly.

"When I explained the Abyss to you earlier, I mentioned that your world was unusual and that it suppressed us severely."

"What does that have to do with what you're telling me?"

Gendo forced himself to sound calm.

"It has a great deal to do with it. What I mean is that extraordinary powers like those of the EVAs and Angels aren't uncommon outside your world. There are also abilities even more unusual, involving souls and even resurrection..."

Tao Yu's words made Gendo clench his fists.

Souls!

Resurrection!

The thought of both together set his heart racing.

"So, perhaps the people from Takigakure have already told you about my abilities. I'm very strong when it comes to sensing souls; otherwise, Evangelion Unit-01 wouldn't have reached a hundred percent synchronization. The reason it jumped from zero to a hundred percent was that Yui Ikari and I came to an agreement..."

At last, Tao Yu's words were too