Alexandria’s infirmary 
“Feel okay? Asuna asked Shinn
“Uh Ah a few broken ribs, I hear bones heal in space but…looks like I’m managing.”
“I see…”
“By the way I haven’t thanked you yet.”
“Eh?”
“If you hadn't come I’d be a goner”
"That’s not…I couldn't do anything! I’m…I’m a moron. When I was in solitary I thought…about being in a military school means, what that means to me. I don’t have anyone else, I made friends here…the days have passed pretty productively…but really my time and friends shouldn't be measured in productivity. They’re what I have to protect at all costs. I can’t just not shoot, but I…didn't shoot. I couldn't shoot not even to save the person…most precious to me!!"

"Asuna…what do I do?And when I get in a mobile suit…it’s no good if I’m still like this!”

Asuna bent over to embrace Shinn taking him by surprise

“Just one question, if I become a woman who’s fine killing…to protect the person most precious to me…will you still…love me?” She asked
"If...I had no choice but to kill to protect you…even…even if you hated me for it…I might do it anyway."

He held Asuna in turn

She was reminded of Akira’s face and dropped her helmet 

“I can’t! I really shouldn’t be here!”
“Why the hell not!” Shinn shouted
“I killed Instructor Linny! He was always my friend!”
“Did…did somebody say you did that? No! No! One said so! You’re not at fault here!!”

Shinn held his arm around Asuna attempting to comfort her.

“It’s okay. I’ll protect you”
Asuna left the room blushing where she saw Erisia was waiting.

“It’s time for training. Forgot?”

Asuna gulped.