Eight years later, in 2015.
NERV Headquarters had summoned Huang Zhetian to New Tokyo-3, Japan, ahead of schedule, less than a month before the events of the original Evangelion: 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone.
New Tokyo-3, Japan.
Escorted by a team, Huang Zhetian stepped off the aircraft carrier's deck and saw that the person waiting to meet him was a familiar face from NERV-Misato Katsuragi.
This Misato Katsuragi looked different from her older version. Her features and shading were much simpler overall, but she also looked more distinct.
Misato Katsuragi politely stepped forward, took Huang Zhetian's hand, and smiled. "Welcome to Tokyo-3, pilot of the Special Unit. From now on, I'll be your direct supervisor, Misato Katsuragi. If anything comes up, you can talk to me. I'll do my best to help you."
Hearing such courteous words come out of Misato's mouth felt strange to Huang Zhetian.
But he quickly realized that this was now the world of Rebuild of Evangelion, not the Original Theatrical Version.
If I didn't know what you were like in private, Auntie Misato, I might actually have believed you.
Huang Zhetian cupped his hands in greeting. "Sorry for the trouble, Miss Misato."
Huang Zhetian got into Misato's car and settled into the back seat. As she worked the controls at the driver's seat, Misato said, "Pilot Huang Zhetian, right? I've read your file. Headquarters has already arranged your accommodations, hasn't it? Still, I'd suggest living with me so I can help you more easily. You only have two options for where to stay: my place or the dormitory Headquarters assigned you."
Huang Zhetian fell silent for a moment. Instead of answering her, he asked, "Miss Misato, are there any other pilots besides me?"
Misato turned the steering wheel and glanced into the rearview mirror. "Yes.