rk@soda.berkeley.edu
			      HARD |< O R
			     A novella by Robert Kwong


			This Chapter finished
			    March 15, 1996
			     ver 1.0

Note to Reader: Please read Disclaimer on
http://www-ucsee.eecs.berkeley.edu/~rk/HardKor.html 1st!
Send thoughts, comments or flames to rk@soda.berkeley.edu

As you can see, this is fanfiction harkening back to the old Kimagure
Orange Road series. The turn of events and timeline depicted here occur
right after Shin Kor I, but before Shin Kor II. This is the graphic
reaccount of the adult lives of Madoka, Hikaru, and Kyosuke. Like the
Shin KOR novels, these stories contain adult themes, situations, and
language.Thus parental guidance is advised. Thus read with your own
discretion! 


Notes:  Phrases in < > are characters thinking to themselves.
	[] indicates scene changes
	// indicates author comments
	** indicates special effects

Legend:
H=Hikaru
M=Madoka
R=Ryusei
K=Kasuga


BOOK A: Introductions

Chapter 10: Reflections

It was already Wednesday and it was nearly two days since I last saw
Madoka. She was still in her mourning period, and the best course of
action for me was not to distub her in her state of grief.  Hikaru told
me the whole thing over my "celebratory" dinner.  Not much of a
celebration though. Hikaru was not in her usual cheerful, bubbling self;
she seemed distraught and despondent after narrating the whole woeful
tale to me: how her close friend died and all.  I never knew how the
passing of one person could impact so many lives.
	My memories of the deceased were quite unpleasant, but I had
nothing against the guy. I was just always petrified with fear whenever I
saw him coming to cause bodily harm to me. He never did trust my
intentions with Hikaru. Luckily for me, Hikaru always seemed to appear on
the scene to save me from his fists of fury. But other than that, he
seemed like a normal guy. Hooking up with gangs doesn't seem very sane at
all. Perhaps being distant from all your friends does that to a person.
	I too, shared his plight in a way, when I was all alone in the
wilderness of Bosnia.  Survival was a struggle each day , drinking
contaminated water, roughing it out in the woods, and dodging whizzing
bullets. Yes, its true: my Power gave me an unfair unadvantage.  By all
rights, I had no business embarking on such a treacherous mission and should
have died. But I did not. But I wondered what the reaction would have been
had I returned home in a body bag...

[DayDream sequence...]

As expected, my unseen spirit would be hovering nearby my own corporal body,
in limbo, waiting for something to happen...

News Reporter: Today, Japan has lost one of its own. Aspiring young
photographer, Kasuga Kyouske became another casualty of the bloody
conflict which still ravages the Balkans in the former republic of
Yugoslavia. Described by his friends as an idealist, he gave his life up
willingly for a cause he truly believed in. You might call his behavior
foolhardy and cavalier, but I call it courageous. He died an honorable
death.
	His body was recovered in a marsh area near the UN safe haven
where he had been situated in. Days earlier, the compound was subjected
to heavy shelling from nearby ground artillery.  It is not known how he
managed to sneak out of the camp, but shortly afterwards, it is speculated
that he was promptly ambushed and killed. It is truly a sad day, for
Japan and the world as they mourn his passing. 

(Funeral Procession) Manami, Kurumi, Takashi, Akane, Kazuya, ojiisan,
obaasan, and the rest of the Kasuga family, are at the head of the
procession, wearing the traditional ceremonial mourning dress, and sobbing
and crying. Behind them is Hatta, Komatsu, and old college buddies of
Kyouske carrying his casket. Finally, trailing last is Madoka and Hikaru,
hand in hand in support. 

All the foreign dignitaries and ambassadors are seated about as they
listen to the eulogy delivered by the Crown Prince. The prime minister of
Japan has declared this a day of mourning. The ceremony is broadcasted
worldwide. 

(After many speeched delivered, the ceremony is finally over. Now we
listen in on some words each of the family members are exchanging for the
last time as they pass by his coffin.)

Kurumi: (sobbing and wailing) ONIICHAN! ONIICHAN! ONIICHAN! CAN YOU HEAR
ME UP THERE? 

K's spirit standing right beside the casket and covering his ears: YES! I
CAN HEAR YOU! PLEASE DON'T SHOUT! Will you try to give me some little
peace! 

Kurumi: (continuing on...) I'm so sorry oniichan for all the bad things I
did to you.  For all the tricks, pranks, practical jokes, and traps I laid
for you. For spreading wild rumor about you and your girlfriends.  But
most of all, I'm sorry for all the bad things I said about you, saying
you were unworthy, weak, moronic numbskull,stupid, dense, dopey, dodo,
foolish, dumb, lame, knucklehead, dumbbell, butthead, bakemono, bakayaro,
ungrateful jerk idiot jackass,.. oh I could go on foreever... 

K:  That's Kurumi for you.  Even when she's sorry, she still knows
how to make me cringe!

Kurumi: Also, I'm sorry for the countless times I beat the crap out of
your weak, frail, degenerate, inferior little body, throwing you against
walls, lodging lamps, books and bookcases at you, and for the innumerable
times I practiced my patented wrestling moves on you, causing you to be
temporarily crippled, disjointed, and bent out of shape. Last, I'm sorry
for stealing your room when you left for your correspondence trip and
moving selling all of your stuff for practically nothing at all at a
garage sale.  Gee, that felt better, getting all that off my chest.  Oh,
can you forgive me for all that, Oniichan? 

K: (hand up to his chin pondering) Hmm..., That's an interesting question,
considering I could have been dead sooner from some of the stunts she pulled
on me! It'll take some time,...a LOOOOOOONNNNNNGGGGGGGG time! But I'll have
plenty of free time...

(Next up: Hatta and Komatsu)

Hatta & Komatsu: (*boo hoo*) Oh how you're doing, old buddy you Kyouske? Why
did you have to go like this? A bloody death? There's better ways to go like
dying from a heartattack after screwing a chick.  At least you'd die with a
smile on your face. Now look at us! We're miserable because you're gone! Now
we don't have anyone like you to torture anymore!

K: (*Grimace*)

H & K: You were the best man for our practical jokes! Too bad for us. We
can't send you off without giving you a little farewell present.  Please!
Accept our most prized possession.  (Komatsu secretly sticks and stashes a
XXXX-rated explicit ecchi magazine inside the side lining of the coffin) It
was first edition too! We know you're love it! You were always into pictures
and centerfolds.  Sayanora and enjoy your reading on your journey down!

K: Hey! Wait a moment guys! Whadya mean on my trip down?

(Manami interrupts his thoughts) Oniichan.  I guess its my turn. (pause)
This is very hard for me, expressing my feelings,...saying my final
goodbye to you. (longer pause) I knew you weren't the world best person,
but at least you tried to be. And in my eyes, you will always be my #1
oniichan; that's all that matters.  I hope you live comfortably in the
heavens, whereever you are. Goodbye. (As she takes off glasses to bow, a
lone tear drop falls gracefully down Manami's cheek and onto Kyosuke.)

[Last, Madoka and Hikaru approach together...)
M: The two girls you ever loved are here to see you off,...Kasgua-kun,
I,... I-I-I (gets choked up) can't say goodbye,...You can't leave me like
this! Say it's a trick Kasuga! You're not really dead, you're just
sleeping, that's all, isn't that right my love...Please come back to
me...( see Madoka fervently crying and lay her arms across the casket,
her face just inches from his face, her tears dripping over his cold
yellow skin... 

H: (leans down and places a hand on her shoulder) Please Madoka, you have to
get a hold of yourself,...you have to let go...

M: NO! I WON'T! HE CAN'T BE DEAD,... HE JUST CAN'T!...He's my superman, ...
how could he die....

H: There's nothing you can do for him now.  Yes, I know the hurt, the
pain, the suffering you're feeling right now as it consumes your whole
body; I too felt such anguish when poor Yuu-kun died,... it was so
tragic,...I couldn't believe it, I didn't want to believe it,...I refused
to admit he was dead, so I hid the truth from myself and kept it locked
away for all these years.  Yet I knew that it was the wrong thing to
do,...not what Hino would have wanted for me,...to grieve forever over
his passing. He would have told me to go on with my life and fulfill my
dreams,... and now I am. Please Madoka, don't beat yourself up like this.
Both Kasuga and Yuusaku are in a better place now. 

(Madoka slowly rises up and turns towards Hikaru's shoulder and starts to
cry; Hikaru welcomes and comforts her with her open arms.)

M: Oh Hikaru! (heavy sobbing)

H: (pats her on the back, like a mother for a child) Now, now Madoka. 
It's going to be alright.  You have to cry your eyes out, to release all
the tension and stress you've accumulated.  But don't remember Darling in
this light; keep his shining memory alive, in your heart and in your
mind.  Let it sustain and drive you, towards a higher purpose. I know
that's what he would have wanted you to do. 

M: (lifts head slightly) Thank you Hikaru for being there to support me
when I needed it the most.  I,... I don't know what I would do if you
weren't here. I'm thankful to have a forever friend like you... 

H: (gives her a wink) And you for me.  (pause) Feeling a little better now?
Let's go now. Leave with the pleasant memories of our men
(We see the two girls depart...)

[Yet another narration....] I was in high spirits when Sempai asked me
out to dinner to celebrate his good fortune. It temporarily kept my
immediate worries of Madoka's grief, Sugizawa's sudden appearance, and a
new place to live on hold.  I knew I could live with Madoka in that big
luxurious mansion, but somehow, I wanted to be independent.  I didn't
want to be a burden on her anymore, always needing to lean on her as I
did in the past.  I wanted to prove to her that I was independent, ...
that I could take care of myself.  It would be best for the both of us.
	I tried to look enthusiastically happy for Darling, I really
did! I wanted to display that 'Oh! That's super Darling! You're the
best!' routine of yester years, but somehow, that didn't felt right
anymore.  Plus when he mentioned Madoka and how poorly she was faring,
that ruined the whole mood for me.  When he asked me if I knew what could
be troubling her, I hesitated; I wanted to make up something.  But I
couldn't.  I couldn't lie to Kyosuke. Sempai was still one of the few,
remaining idyllic images left fore me.  He was special: my first love and
always my idol hero to worship. If I could lie to something I still
valued, then I could never hold anything sacred again. Yes, it true; I've
led a scandalous life up to now, sacrificing my virtue and honor living
in NY.  Performing unspeakable acts just to make ends meet, but in the
process shattering my innocence and hardening my soul. Still, Kasuga was
one of the few remaining pillars sustaining my existence. He was real and
whole and not one of my fanciful phantom hallucinations. So I told him
what happened; How Hino died and all. After narrating the tale, the
evening took a turn south; We talked little afterwards and ate our
dinners in silence. Later, he accompanied me back to my hotel and we said
our goodbyes and that was that. No sparks; just a lasting numb feeling. 

[At a High-Rise, Fancy  Apartment Building]
#1: Whew! That's the last of it!

#2: Thank God! I was just about to pass out, moving all that furniture!

#1: No you're not. You're just saying that. (smacks him across the back,
causing #2 to wheeze and gasp for breath)

R: Thank you men for assisting me.

#1: No problem boss! It's our job.  If you don't need anything more,
we're go back to our place.  We need to unpack some of my stuff also. 

R: It seems I won't be needing you two for today. Take the rest of the day
off.

#2: COOL! Later Master!

[As they leave...]  We see Ryusei snuggle up his 'quarterback's chair': a
black, leather easy chair. There is more than meets the eye to this simple
"apartment." It looked more like a penthouse. It had 2 full bedrooms, a
living room, 1 bath, and a complete kitchen. A ample patio awaits outside,
revealing a breathtaking view of the city. It is immaculately furnished with
all the contemporary ammenities and furnishings a rich man like Ryusei can
afford: Complete, full-feature entertainment (TV/Stereo) center, a hot tub in
the patio, impressionists paintings, ming vases, chisled marbled sculptures,
black leather sofa and loveseat, and a simple black teak table situated in
the center. Atop this is a peculiar chess set with all the pieces arranged.
On one side is 'White' represented by a place, see-thru crystalline pieces.
On the side facing Ryusei is 'Black' represented by dark, onyx crystals.
Black has moved first, a clear violation of the rules! Ryusei sits calmly
and peacefully in his chair, joining his fingers together across both hands,
with a soothing piece of Bach playing in the background. He seems rather
oblivious to the music, as if lost in thought and contemplating strategy for
the "chess game" on the table.

(staring intently at the laid out chess set) <*Door
Slam*>

Shiori: He's going to get me in trouble one of these days...

[Segway to the next scene]

Today, I --Ayukawa Madoka was 22 and I felt terrible. I didn't feel up to
par in participating in my own birthday "party." Nonetheless, I had an
obligation to give a good showing for all loved ones around me . Perhaps
it was best that I go today. I could use the support of my friends right
now. That's why I arranged to have the ceremony at a temple. A more
solemn and somber birthday for me this year. The tragedy of Hino's death
must have hit me harder than I expected. Now he could never keep his
promise to Hikaru... 

*Flashback
Little Yuusaku: (cute voice) Madoka-SEM PAI! Do you think Hikaru likes me?

Little M: (flashes smile) I don't know, little Hino.  Why don't you ask her?

Little Yuusaku: Are you sure it's ok? She won't hit me again, will she?

Little M: Don't worry; I'll stop her before she land too many blows.

Little Yuusaku: (tugging at her skirt) Hikaru-chan. Hikaru-chan. 

Little H: (looks down; bored) Yeah, yeah. What do you want?

Little Yuusaku: Ummm, Ummm,  I-I, I-I,..

Little H: (irritated) Come on! Out with it! I don't have all day to mess
with you, little boy!

Little Yuusaku: OK. Could you tell me,... do you like me?

Little H: What?

Little Yuusaku: Uh-Oh? I, I-I really said 'what do you like in a guy?'

Little M: Me? Yuu-kun, you ask the strangest questions!

Little Yuusaku: I'm sorry. I go now.

Little H: Don't be such a sissy! I'll tell you.  My dream man, he would 
be tall, dark, and handsome, of course. And strong too! Strong enough to 
protect me.  

Little Yuusaku: So if I get to be tall and strong, would you marry me?

Little H: (he-he) Yeah, sure. Why not?  But for you, you would have to be the 
strongest man in the world!

Little Yuusaku: Really?

Little H: (mocking) Yes of course. Something to get you off your puny little
self.

Little Yuusaku: Then I promise you that when I grow strong, I would 
protect you always, ok?

Little H: Sure.  That'd be the day.  No more time to fool around.
Me and Madoka got  places to go. See ya!

Little Yuusaku: (waves tiny hands) Bai bai!

Little M: You really shouldn't tease Yuu-kun like that.

Little H: Why not? He knows I'm kidding.

Little M: I'm not so sure.  You know how he is.  I think he was actually
serious.

Little H:Naaahh!  I don't think he'll go that far. The kid got too many 
things clogged up in his head. It'll clear up.  He find a little girl he 
likes and he'll soon forget all about me!

Little M: I hope you're right...

*End of Flashback

What was so special about birthdays anyway? It may be a festive time to
celebrate the inception into this great wide Earth, but lately for me, it
was just another indicator that one was just that much closer to death.
Moribund thoughts to have on one's birthday, isn't it? Funny how the
passing of a cherished one gives you a look perspective on living. Now I
can see the fascination behind looking young in order to try to slow the
sands of life passing through the hourglass of time. To cheat death
basically. But they're only kidding themselves. The time wasted on such
efforts could be spent on more worthy endeavors: a nature hike, a couple
in love walking together, or spending more time with their children. If
it were up to me, I would not do anything to "cover" myself up: no
plastic surgery, miracle drugs, or anti-aging cream. If I was to face,
let me do so gracefully. 

	Earlier that morning, I received a package from my parents in
California. Contained within it was a camcorder along with a tape of
their special "private" performance for my birthday in their living room.
I missed my parents a lot. I wish I could spend more time with them. Now
was the time I needed their guidance and advice more than ever on
adulthood and career decisions. They even noted that in the letter
attached, imploring me to come over and stay with them a while in sunny
California.  Too bad for them that they didn't know I had other
obligations.  Maybe I'll visit them next time when I'm free... 

[At the temple]

Kurumi: Gawd! This is such a weird, creepy place to be holding a birthday
party.  All these restless spirits and all.  It's not like Madoka,
especially with her fear of ghosts and all...

Manami: Kurumi! You shouldn't be saying such blasemphous things around in a
holy sanctuary here.  Even though I'm not too keen on the idea myself, I
respect Madoka wishes to do something different this year; to hold a nice,
quiet, formal tea ceremony to cerememorate her B-day. 

Kurumi: (sarcastically) Oh Yeah,... what a wild and raucous party we're
going to have here. Where's the music? Where's the liquor? Where's the FOOD?

Manami: Hush up! It's not good to speak so loud here. You might be 
disturbing someone here. I don't see anyone here yet,... we must be early...

"Excuse me ladies.  You look lost here.  Do you need some guidance...

Kurumi: Now listen here! I know how your type operates, trying to recruit
new members, and we're not going to fall for it! So buzz off and find
someone else to harass!
(turns around to see person she's berating... and goes ga-ga eyed!)

Manami: Excuse the rude outburst from my supposed sister here kind sensei.

Kurumi: (twinkled-eyed) WoW! 

"Eh? I'm sorry if I was bothering you two.  I didn't mean to offend.  I just
thought you two might need some assistance around here. We usually don't
have too many visitors at this time of the week. 

Kurumi: (dreamy mode) I'm sorry back there.  Where was my head? In fact, you
can help us out, starting with your name and number...

"Huh?"

Manami: (punches Kurumi's shoulder) You really have to excuse my sister.
She gets ditsy sometimes 

"No need to explain. I'm Mitsuru Ikeda, caretaker of this humble temple
abode. I aim to serve ...

Kurumi: Say,... since you're into the occult,... What's your sign?

Manami:Ahem! (drags Kurumi and walks away quickly) Sorry! We have to be
going...we're visit that area of the temple, ... if we need any help, we're
come and find you. Thanks! Goodbye! 

Ikeda: Curious. Getting more of these stranger folks. A disturbing trend...

(at far end of temple area)

Manami: What in god's name were you trying to pull back there? You nearly
ruined our family's name!

Kurumi: (oblivious mode) Wow! That guy who runs the place is such a stud...

Manami: Do you have to swoon over every cute you see?

Kurumi: Yes! You think he's cute too? Looks like this won't be a wasted
afternoon after all...

Manami: Why do bad things happen to good people?

[A poor, downtrodden Kyosuke walking glumly along a quiet street in Tokyo]
Kyosuke, looking glum, takes out the remaining cash he has on hand.

K: 5000 yen.  5000 pitiful yen! What kind of gift can I possibly get
with this for my sweet Madoka -- the woman who has everything?

I know what you are thinking.  I should have been prepared for this
situation earlier instead of waiting till the last moment. So tough luck to
me! Yeah, I deserved it.  I still had that wild, young streak in me, not
thinking ahead. Not planning for the future. Typical, naive behavior of us
young folks.  Partying like there's no tomorrow. Only to realize later how
we could have utilized our youth a little more effectively. Regret.  What a
cruel, harsh emotion. It's a pity we don't realize how precious and sacred
our youth is before it is all used up.
	But what was I going to do? I couldn't go to the party empty-handed.
Yet it would look just as bad if I bought her a crappy gift, even though I
knew she would love it, no matter how bad it was.  It was just that I
couldn't stand to bear the looks and stares from my family members and
friends.  Scary!

(Trips on something) (*Trip*) K: Kya! Goddamnit!  (Kyosuke laying out on his
back, rubbing his tush,...)  K: What rotten luck! This isn't my day!  What's
this?  (picks up a rather large black wallet/organizer?)  K: Hmm, looks like
a wallet, but very strange looking.  Never seen this style before. Who could
it belong to? (*open wallet*) Woah! Money...

I never seen this much money in my life before, ... with this high a
denomination. It was like a gold mine, and my prayers answered.  I sat
there, on the sidewalk,like a madman, greedily counting how much there was.

K: 80, 90, 100,000 yen! Gazooks! What riches,... with this kind of money, I
could get something really special to surprise her... Ah YES! Now I get it! I forget she was seeing him.
So she probably gave it to him, that's all.  And why should I be worried
about Hikaru anyway.  It's not like we're still girlfriend and boyfriend.
Alright! Gotta go return this...(sticks it in front jacket pocket)

(*POOF*)

"Now what do you think you're doing? You not actually thinking of returning
it, are you?"

K: Who said that? (turns head around to see no one around him)

"I did, you dope! (pops over shoulder) Can you see I'm in your mind?"

(looks over to see a devilish, miniature version of himself sitting on his
left shoulder.)

K: Now what's happening? I thought stuff like this only happens in the
movies!

Devilish Kyo: You're an Esper, aren't you? You can do stuff like that, like
conjuring up waiths like me. And I know you're DYING to buy a great gift for
your baby.

K: (slaps forehead) The gift! I forgot all about it! 

Devilish Kyo: Yes, I know the feeling.  Greed does that to you. It'll wear
off; too bad. Now you got some shopping to do, my boy!

K: Yeah.  That's right!

(*POOF*)

Devilish Kyo: Doh! Not him again! My goody-goody alter ego.  I knew he'll pop
up.

Angelic Kyo: I'm your conscience, Kyouske and I'm come to stop you from
commiting a serious mistake!

Devilish Kyo: (to angelic kyo) Hey, you listen, you imp! Haven't you heard
the phrase 'Finders keepers?'. He found it, so tough luck to the guy who
lost it. And this chump is pitifully loaded, so this 'pocket change'
won't mean anything to him. 

Angel Kyo: No! You can't do this!

Devilish Kyo: Watch us! Let's go! You're running out of time,... you got to
act now! If you really feel bad about it, just consider it a 'loan'. Just
repay the guy when you get the money.

Angel Kyo: Knowingly withholding the truth, even if it is paved with good
intentions, is till wrong.  You've got to return it.

Devilish Kyo: Ah, what do you know? (whacks angel off with pitchfork)
Let go to the jewelry store.  I know this gorgeous diamond ring...

"Excuse me! Mr Kasuga-san, isn't it?  We met earlier at your party.  May I
trouble you for one moment.

It was Ryusei!

R: I'm sorry for stopping you like this, but I seem to have misplaced my
wallet while I was taking a walk. I might have dropped it along the way,
so I'm retracing my steps. I was wondering if you might have seen it?

K: Me? Urgh,... Urgh...

R: Is there something wrong? An object stuck in your throat perhaps?

Angelic K: Now's your chance to redeem your sorry self.  Here! (*Nudge*)

Kyosuke stumbles forward, spilling the wallet out of his jacket.

K: (picks it up) Ahh,... you mean this?

R: Yes! That's precisely the one! Thank god you were able to come upon it. 
I have some very important documents contained within it, which I dearly
don't want to lose.  Arigotou! (bows)

K: Glad to be of service.  If there's nothing more, I have to be going,...
I'm late already as it is. (turns and walks away)

R: Ahem! One more moment of your time please! Here! (hands him half the
money) Although it's against my typical parsimonious nature, I've decided
to make an exception in your case.  I have a nasty habit of rewarding
honest people. Consider it a reward for your virtue. 

K: No. You got it wrong... it wasn't really me...

R: Now now! No need to be modest. You look like you need the money, as I 
thought.   I might be wrong about you; there still might be 
hope for you.  I have to be going. Too da loo! (exits into nearby office 
building)

K: (angrily) what's is that suppose to mean? You think I'm poor, don't you?
Curse you! I won't take your dirty money! (tosses it on the ground and 
starts to stomp on it)

(Moments later, Kyosuke starts to feel stupid at what he did, and just
stares at the money, still lying on the ground.)

K: 

(out of nowwhere)
"Since you can't make up your mind, as usual, I'll take it!"
Adolescent pops out and effortlessly snatches the cache of cash and races off)

K: Why you Kazuya! I'm going to get you! (runs after him)

Kazuya: Catch me if you can, OLD MAN!

K: Old? I show you whose old! 

[Hikaru exiting hotel to leave for temple]

<*Beep Beep!*>

H:(turns)

#1: Hi Miss Hiyama-san.  Long time no see.  The boss gave us the day off.
Do you need a lift?

H: No,...I really shouldn't trouble you two...

#1: (exits car) No trouble at all. Come on! Get in! (grabs her wrist and
pops her inside) There! You're like it! Let's go!

H: (irked) You guys are really something! Didn't Ryusei-san teach you any
manners? 

#1: No.  Just to drive him around.  

#2: Ignore him.  He's in his typical jerk self mood today.  

H: What's that smell? Someone reeks of sake! 

#2: That's why I'm driving!

#1: I ain't drunk! Spirits helps loosen up my nerves.

#2: And your lips!

#1: Shudup! Who asked you?

H: So that explains it...

#2: (ignoring him) Where to, Miss Hiyama-san ?

H: Ikeda Temple.

#2: Why you're going to a place like that? Taking meditation lessons there?

H: I'm actually going there for a birthday party. But it seems like an
odd place for it.

#1: Party? I love parties!  Who's the lucky devil?

H: My best friend, Madoka-san.  I prepared a lovely gift for her.

#2: I know.  Say, would Manami-san be there as well?

H: I don't see why not.  All of Madoka's friends should be there.

#2: Great! Could you give her this letter for me?

H: Why not give it to her in person? (winks eye)

#2: Really? I could go in?

H: Yeah.  I'll find a way to let you in.

#2: Gee thanks! 

#1: Uh oh! Trouble ahead!

H: What happened? An accident?

#1: No. Worst.  Nagasi is waving at us up ahead! 

[The Chase...]

K: Damn that kid! I can't use the Power, not with all these people here!
And I still feel fatigued from running up all those flights of stairs...

K: What? Where'd he go? Ah-ha! He must be hiding in one of these stores. He's
not going to escape me this time!

(inside a jewelry store...)
Kazuya: Say sensei.  How much for that ring over there?

Jeweler: I don't think you can afford it sir!

Kazuya: Whaddya mean by that? Will this do? (flashes yen)

Jeweler: (Eyes widen.) Oh, yes sir.  Excuse me.   I'll get it out for you
right away! (pulls case from bullet-proof casing)

Kazuya: (picks it up and flips it up and down in the air, as it sparkles
in the light) I like it! How much is it?

Jeweler: I'm having a sale this week.  For you, I'll let you have it for
49000 yen. 

Kazuya: Ok! Here! Is that enough?

Jeweler: (counting money) Yes sir. Here's your change.

Kazuya: I have some left over? Cool! Bubblegum money!

Jeweler: (wraps it up) Here you go.

Kazuya: Bye! (exits door)

(standing just outside) 
K: (hands ready to grab) Now I've got you! 

Kazuya: Here! Catch! (Flips ring in the air)

K: (stumbles and whirls hands around and finally goes to his knees to haul
in the ring)

Kazuya: It's Mado-nichan's gift! See ya at the party! (disappears)

[Inside the crowded limo]
Nagasi: You clowns nearly passed me! Why didn't you bozos see me before? 

#1: We thought you were some lady trying to get a taxi. We'd didn't know
you were actually waving for us.

Nagasi: Yeah right. (eyes Hikaru menancingly) And why is she here?

#1: Hey, cool it!  She needed a ride, so we felt we'd oblige her. You got
to treat Ryusei's clients with class, you know.

Nagasi: And what about me? Who pay you guys in the first place? I could get 
you fools fired!

#1: Go ahead. But you and I know you can't go over Master's head.  So while
we still employed, we still exercise control over this vehicle. So sit back
and hush up. We're get you on your way soon enough, after we drop her off.

Nagasi: My, are we so free with our words today! I'll remember this #1.
You're on borrowed time now. (crosses arms and looks away)

#2: Forgive him, Miss Nagasi.  He's just drunk. Maybe you two ladies would
like a little quiet time amongst each other. I'll raise the divider.

H: No, #2! Please! It's not really necessary. I...

(Too late.  Now I was stuck in the back with the she-devil from hell!)

Nagasi: So,... Miss Hiyama.  Now that we have a little time to ourselves,
there's a few questions I've been meaning to ask you.

H: You want to ask me?

Nagasi: Certainly.  How serious is your relationship with my Ryusei? It's no
secret you two have been spending quite an inordinate amount of time with 
each other. Don't worry; I'm not jealous.  I'm willing to share him with you.

H: I think you got me all wrong.  I'm not after 'your man'.  Me and Mr
Haroken-san, we're just acquaintances. Just your normal business
relationship.

Nagasi: Acquaintances, eh? Is that so? We're see, soon enough. And what
about my boyfriend Sugi-san? You two seem to have 'a thing' going way back 
then.

H: He didn't tell you?

Nagasi: No he didn't.  Tell me what?

H: I don't know... maybe you should discuss it between you two.

Nagasi: Men...they never tell you anything. They always got something to
hide. 

H: 

Nagasi: So speaking woman to woman, give me some juicy details on Sugi.

H: There's not much to say. We did go out when the both of us were
still living in New York. But we needed our space, so we split up.

Nagasi: How quaint! So how is he in bed?

H: WHAT! Th-That's none of your business!

Nagasi: My, my, don't act so surprised. We both certainly know how Sugizawa
is with the women. I'm sure you fell for his flashy charms, you naive girl.
No need to be such a prude!

H: Humph! I'm not saying anything anymore!

Nagasi: You aren't any fun, dear! Too bad.  I rate him a mere 6. Could be
better. I guess his 'bite' is not as potent as his 'flash'.

[At the temple...]

Akane: There you are! Where have you been? I leave my eyes off you for
just a moment and you pop off.  Come here now! We're going to miss the
tea ceremony! 

Kazuya: Wah! I don't want sit through a boring tea thing.  I want to play
pachinko!

Akane: Shut up! You're lucky I didn't smack you! You be on your best
behavior. It's Madoka-san birthday, you know. 

Kazuya: You still have that blowup of her on your wall?

Akane: Why you...(grabs his ear)

Kazuya: Owwww!

Madoka: Hi Akane, Kazuya-chan.  Have you seen Kasuga or Hikaru?

Akane: (sheepishly) No Madoka-san.

Madoka: Hmm. It's not like them to be late.  We'd better start without them.

Akane: Ok! (curls arms with Madoka, while leading Kazuya with the other )
Let's go.

Madoka: (surprised) My...

The ceremony proceeded smoothly without a hitch. Nice, quiet and pleasant.
Even Hatta and Komatsu behaved.  Anticlimactic, so to speak, compared with
the celebration the week earlier for Kasuga's return. This was far less
raucous; more peaceful, more calm. It was the first time in days I had a
smile on my face.

Hatta: It's presents-opening time!

That it was.  As expected, the hentais got me a gift true to their
nature: a life-size inflatable "clean" doll.  I received a watch Akane
and her family; a metronome from the twins. 

"Hi everyone! I'm sorry I came so late."

It was my friend, Hikaru.

"I'm really sorry Madoka-san for missing the ceremony. I knew you were really
looking forward to it."

Komatsu: Don't worry about it.  It was boring anyway.  You came just at the
right time.  What's your gift?

H: It's right inside this bag.  Where's Sempai?

M: I'm not really sure...

(a crouching figure in the bushes sneaks up from behind Manami)
"Manami-san?"

Manami: Oh! Hi there.   #2, is that right?

#2: Yeah. I just wanted to give this letter.  Gotta go now.  Mistress is
waiting.  See ya this weekend! (creeps away)

Manami: (whispers) Bye.   (eyes the leering looks from Hatta
and Komatsu)

(near entrance of temple)
Nagasi: What the hell are you doing now #1? You already dropped the bimbo off
already. Let's go.

#1: I'm waiting up on #2.

Nagasi: What the hell is that boy doing? You two will be on the cutting block,
just you watch.

#1: Keep your threats to yourself, ok?

"Is there a problem here? Our aim here is to resolve the inner conflicts."

Nagasi and #1: We're not interested!

Ikeda: "You look very familiar. Is your name Nagisa?"

Nagisa: (shielding her face with her purse and disguising voice) You must
have mistaken me for someone else. 

#1: There's the little devil himself.

#2: Hi guys.

Nagasi: Let get the hell out of this place now. Give me bad memories...

(back to the party)

M: I can't wait to find out what it is.

H: I got it especially for you during my outing in Hokkaido.

M: Wow.  A music box.  Thank you so much.

H: Open it up.



M: I love it.  I love all the generous gifts I've received from everyone.
Thank you all.



(Everyone raises their tea glasses and drinks)

Hatta: (to Hikaru) So, you were back in Hokkaido, weren't you?

Komatsu: How is that old bugger, Hino Yuusaku?

Hatta: Still the same old loser?

(We see Hikaru and Madoka get incensed by the comment)

*SLAP-_-        -_-SLAP*

(We see the mighty hands of Hikaru and Madoka deliver a double slap at the
hapless fools Hatta and Komatsu)

K: Hey everyone! I'm sorry I've missed all the festivities...

M: (looking mad) Kasuga.  Take me home.  NOW!

K: But I just got here.  I'm really sorry . Don't be mad at me.

M: I'm not.  I want to leave. Please.

K: Sure Madoka.  Let's go then.  Bye everyone.  Hope everyone had a fine
time! 

K: Where's Hikaru?

M: She stormed out. I don't blame her...

Komatsu and Hatta: Lying on the ground, moaning and groaning.
Owww,  ouch, urgh... what did we say?

[At the Ayukawa mansion]
I took Madoka back, who obviously was in a foul mood.  I blamed myself. 
Baka Kyosuke! Why do I have such a poor sense of direction?  She was mad
at me for missing the whole ceremony, and I didn't blame her. 

K:  I'm sorry Madoka for upsetting you. I'm such an inconsiderate fool,
acting like a bumpkin, especially on your birthday.  I think it's best I
leave now... 

M: Kasuga! Please, don't go.

K: You don't?

M: No.  I don't want to be alone tonight...

K: Forgive me, Madoka.

(They embrace and hug each other for the longest time)

M: There's something I wish for more than anything else on my birthday
that I hope you can fulfill. 

K: Anything, my love. Just name it.

M: Will you marry me Kasuga?

K: You're proposing to me?

M: Yes I am silly.

K: Then I'm afraid I'll have to refuse you.

M: Huh? You're turning me down? But why?

K: Because... it's customary for the man to do the proposing (kneels on one
knee and takes out ring) And now, will you - Ayukawa Madoka agree to be my
lovely wife?

M: Oh Kyouske!  I accept, wholeheartily! I don't want us to be apart ever
again! 

So on May 25, 1994, we were engagement.
[End of Chapter 10]