NERV Underground Base, testing laboratory.
Huang Zhetian, Kaworu Nagisa, Shinji, and Rei Ayanami were testing their synchronization rates inside the Dummy Entry Plugs, their eyes closed.
Kozo Fuyutsuki stood with his hands behind his back, checking the data with Ibuki and the others at the consoles in front of him.
Kozo Fuyutsuki said, "Try lowering it another 0.3%."
Ibuki replied, "Yes, sir!"
Kaworu Nagisa's synchronization rate had actually surpassed Huang Zhetian's, who usually held first place.
The readings barely dipped, and the frequency climbed steadily, only increasing, never decreasing!
Kozo Fuyutsuki looked at the data on the screen and questioned Ibuki and the others. They were the experts in this field, after all, while he was merely filling in for their superior. As for why their superior was absent, that remained unknown...
Kozo Fuyutsuki asked, "These readings aren't wrong, are they?"
Hyuga reported honestly to the Deputy Commander behind him, "All measurement systems are functioning normally."
Ibuki also reported, "MAGI hasn't detected any data errors."
His expression still tense, Kozo Fuyutsuki said, "This boy can synchronize with Unit-02 without even replacing its core. And his readings exceed the Special Unit pilot's by more than a single point..."
Ibuki found it unbelievable too. "But this is truly hard to believe. No... I should say it's impossible."
A stern, pointed voice rang out. "But it's a fact. Accept the facts first, then investigate the reasons!"
It was Misato's voice. Ever since her close friend Ritsuko Akagi had been absent, she had taken control of all experimental data related to EVA testing.
Deputy Commander Kozo Fuyutsuki understood these tests only partially, and without Ritsuko Akagi, Ibuki alone posed no threat.
With Hyuga-the strongest programmer of the three-also in Misato's camp, control over the experimental data department was effectively entirely in her hands.
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