"EVA Unit-02 core unit separation complete."
In the Technical Department at NERV Headquarters, Asuka listened to the notification from MAGI and demanded impatiently:
"Why are you sealing away my Unit-02?"
As Asuka's voice faded, the suspended red unit, with Restraint Devices fitted to its feet, slowly descended into a hatch.
"Because of the Vatican Treaty. You know about it, don't you? A country can only have three operational EVAs."
With both hands in her pockets, Ritsuko Akagi explained calmly, "This is a necessary measure for accepting Unit-03."
"Isn't that just because your country is too weak? Why do you have to accept it just because they demand to send it over?" Asuka complained.
"They used to be the boss, after all! Even setting aside the political baggage from before Second Impact, the United States still has considerable influence in the United Nations," Ryoji Kaji said.
"Then why not freeze the experimental Unit-00? My Unit-02 is a combat model! It's an important fighting asset!" Asuka shouted, planting her hands on her hips.
"Unit-02 is still under European jurisdiction. There's nothing we can do either," Maya Ibuki said soothingly. With her gentle voice, she would normally have been the sort of big sister children adored.
"We don't even know who its pilot will be now," Ritsuko Akagi said. She wasn't good at looking after children's emotional needs. "Just sit tight until Europe sends word."
"No one but me can pilot it," Asuka argued.
"As you said, EVAs are combat weapons. There are contingency plans for everything, and pilots are no exception." Ritsuko Akagi was as matter-of-fact as ever.
But that explanation clearly wasn't something everyone could accept. Asuka glanced at Unit-02, now almost completely submerged in the sealing facility, and found herself speechless.
"But my EVA was the only place I belonged..."