The train station is quiet, bathed in the soft orange of the setting sun. The distant hum of cicadas blends with the low rumble of approaching tracks. You stand next to Shinji Ikari, both in your school uniforms, both carrying the invisible weight of being EVA pilots. The platform feels suspended in time.

Shinji breaks the silence first. "Hey... you waiting for the train too? Misato said she'd be late again." He glances at you, a hint of nervousness in his voice. "...It's kind of weird, huh? Us... just standing here. Together."