This is one of the more interesting "Evangelion" continuation fics that I've read in awhile. It's also one of the more unusual ones.

Done in the tradition of "EVA-R", "Ascent" continues the story after the end of episode 24 of the TV series following the death of Kaoru/the 17th Angel, ignoring the last two episodes and the movie, "End of Evangelion". NERV and the pilots find that their job isn't finished yet, as even more Angels come down to fight and put our heroes through the ringer. And all the while, secrets and conspiracies run amok, as Gendo and Keel make ready their plans. Fortunately, the good guys have a new ally on their side, and it's not who you'd expect.

That's all I can give on the plot without giving too much away. Much of this has to be read to be believed, and even then it's hard to swallow. Still, Sparky does a pretty good job with the story. He brings up some rather unusual, though probably unlikely, ideas regarding the backstory behind "Eva". And while his Angels have the same general shape with different twists to each one, he comes up with some unique ways for them to be fought and destroyed.

Characterization is well in played. Shinji's still trying to find his place, with the help of his friends and loved ones. Asuka's still somewhat of a pain, but is learning to open her heart, and there is some romantic tension between her, Shinji, and the new pilot. Rei's usually her usual self, but often tends to get emotional for no real reason. A neat thing is the bond that develops between her and Shinji, but you can't be too clear as to what kind of feelings she has for him without reading the story. Misato remains the human aspect of the NERV command staff, as does Fuyutsuki. Maya finds herself overwhelmed trying to take the place of Ritsuko, and Gendo's an even bigger bastard than ever (sort of spoiler: you'll love how he gets his in the end ^_^).

The story itself has its funny moments, as well as its dark ones. Things really get dark and graphic during the later battles, much more so than in the original series, but I guess that's to up the drama a bit and make you wonder if things'll turn out okay.

The end's not quite what you'd expect, and that's all I can say about it. Trust me, you have to read it to believe it.

I wouldn't put this fanfic in my "Top Ten List" of favorite fics, but it was still an enjoyable read. I'd recommend it for those who would prefer a much more happier ending to "Eva" than the one "EoE" gave us.

Until Instrumentality is needed again...

SEELE-05

The death of Kaworu left Shinji alone and isolated. His friends are gone, Rei has changed and Asuka is in a comatose state. Misato doesn't seem to handle Kaji's death. The situation seems perfect for SEELE to take control of NERV. However, Gendo has some plans of his own. But more importantly, God still has some projects for Mankind. So he allows one familiar Angel to fall down to Earth...

The continuity story starting after episode 24 is one of the most common type of EVA stories. And it's not unusual to see a new EVA to appears, as well as new type of Angels. But it's done quite well. Aside from that, we see the return of Kaworu (as a Fallen Angel) and for the first time we have a story that actually gives a role to God (even if really minor), therefore giving a clear purpose behind the Angels attacks. It makes also use of more major known Angels, the Archangels. And unlike in some other fics, those are not peace of cake to beat. Quite frankly, after reading that fic, I'd pity any insurance company that would cover Shinji...

As far as I can say, the writing itself seems good. I didn't really notice problems with the style, spelling or grammar (of course, that's not my specialty, but I can still make the difference between something well written and something badly written).

The characterization is... well, not entirely wrong, but correct either... It's hard to judge with the changes in the story line. Shinji is at first completely devastated by the situation he's in, but later seems maybe overly confident and happy, although, some may say that he has reasons too now that he has friends and love. Asuka's new confidence may seem a bit too much too fast, but is not entirely unbelievable either. But she's overly too nice. Rei's gains personality, but it's slow and with a reason. And for once, I actually like Kaworu. This fic gives us a believable look into his benevolent nature. The only problem I would find would be with Misato and Hyuuga. While Hyuuga's feelings are well know, I'm not entirely sure that a relationship with Misato would be possible. But then again, she did say "I see, anybody will do. It's me who is lonely." in episode 23...

Overall, "Ascent" was an enjoying read, as well as an original and unusual one. While the outcome is clearly happier then EoE, I really don't know what to think if it. I know I don't dislike it, but... I'm not sure I'm entirely comfortable with it. But at least it's positive and original... which is quite enough for me.

I recommend this story. It's not in my favorites, but it's quite good nonetheless.