H       A       R       D
                               |<      O       R

                  K i m a g u r e O r a n g e     R o a d
                     	   F a n f i c t i o n

                               by Robert Kwong
                             rk@soda.berkeley.edu
                                   ver 0.9
                               September 15,1997


Based on characters created by Matsumoto Izumi.

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. Since these stories contain
adult themes, situations, and language, parental guidance is advised. Please
read the full disclaimer at my web site for full details. Also, it would
help if you read my previous stories, for each story builds on top of the
other.

HardKor Web Site (With Disclaimer and back-stories: Book A and Book B
chapters) http://www-ucsee.eecs.berkeley.edu/~rk/HardKor.html

My SuperPage for the General Kimagure Orange Road enthusiast
http://www-ucsee.eecs.berkeley.edu/~rk/Kor.html

My contact email address for comments or further correspondence:
rk@soda.berkeley.edu

Feel free to email me your impressions and suggestions for the series. Beta
readers always welcome. If you want new stories emailed to you, please mail
me at the above email address.

Welcome to my 40th total written story of the HardKOR saga. Thanks for
reading my stories! I hope you enjoy reading it as I did writing it. If you
have suggestions or improvements, or like what you read here, then please
send me some email my way.

Robert Kwong
(c) Ark Productions -97-

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

[] Indicates Scene changes
<> Indicates characters thinking to themselves
() Indicates some form of action

Book B: Chapter 11:Blackmail

[At the apartment complex...]
#1: This entertainment center of your friend is great! It can pick up all the
worldwide satellite channels! Especially the sci-fi channel! Now I can catch
up with all the old and new Star Trek episodes!

#1: (opening a can) Enjoy it while you can. He will be coming back from his
European vacation in about a month. After that, we'll be kicked out.

#2: I'm not worried. I'll be entering the dorms to start my first year of
college. Exciting, isn't it?

#1: (disinterested) Yes, very. (empties can's contents into a bowl)

#2: How about you? Where will you go?

#1: I'll manage. (lowers bowl) Here boy.

"Growl!"

#1: Sorry Taki boy. Sorry for being late with your dinner.

#2: I still don't know how you are able to pass that wolf-dog in and out this
apartment without getting caught by our nosy landlord.

#1: Trade secret. You need to have a sixth sense about these things.

#2: Speaking of sixth sense, you've got to check out this weird
commercial that keeps popping up!

"Hello! Welcome to the Psychic Pals Network! Dying to find out the answers to
your life! Love troubles, work problems, and just plain curious? Call now to
get the answers you need and deserve. Have an open mind and enjoy talking with
our trained and certified psychics . Call and now and be amazed!"

#2: So what do you think?

#1: You think I believe this crap?

#2: I'm not so sure myself. But psychic phenemenon is not as unbelieveable as
it sounds. Why in the history books dating back as far as the Greeks, they had
stories of oracles and soothsayers predicting the future. Even the Chinese
used oracle bones.

#1: You are so gullible sometimes. Gypsys and crystal balls are just ways to
part suckers with their money. Besides. I'm not interested in knowing my
future.

#2: You're not?

#1: Nope. What fun is there to know what's coming?

#2: Why not? I think it would be neat to know your future.  Especially if it's
bad news. Then you can take steps to avoid it.

#1: Meddling with events out of our control is dangerous. The future should
be left to fate.

(*Bark!*)

[somewhere in the recesses of Hong Kong...]

(In a dark, secret room adorned with ancient chinese furniture and
architecture)

(We see an old figure sitting atop what seems to be an emperor's throne and
flanked by 2 bodyguards on each side with their hands folded together, dressed
in red jumpsuits)

(A dark figure is escorted in by 2 guards)

(The crinkly skinned boss addresses this dark-hooded figure)

"You have come at last."

"Greetings to you again, Mao. Health and happiness to you."

"Likewise to you, Bai Leung. What is your business here?"

"Naturally, to report the current situation for our pact."

"Long way for you to come just for that."

"I wanted to do it personally. I didn't want any interceptions or
misunderstandings. I know how important it is to choose one's words."

"Very well. What do you have to say?"

"As the representative of my group, I was successful in acquiring a
new shipping partner to carry the "goods" to the destinations of interest. The
only concern will now be arranging a new time schedule to be worked out with
your men, with your blessing, of course. "

"The arrangements are trivial. You must want more of me, don't you?"

"A wise man you are to gleam my intentions. Let me get to the point.  As a
result of our ventures and newly found partnerships, our resources has been
taxed to the limit. As such, we are quite strained in the type of moves we
wish to pursue for future profit and power. Thus, I wish to make a small but
humble request."

"Humble it may seem, but small it will not be. What do you want?"

"To request an addition infusion of capital to fund our enterprises."

(laughter) "Is that all?"

"Plus your assistance in extending your persuasive influence over the port's
officials in inspecting our new partner's cargo ships."

"No doubt, that is a given.  Those gullible lackeys are in my hip pocket. No
need to fear those rats. As for your request for our additional funds, I need
to be given reassurances on how you intend to reimburse me back, with
interest."

"Naturally. I believe this will serve more than adequately as collateral."

(holds up a picture  which is takened by the guards and passed to the big
boss)

"Ahh...very exquisite indeed. Priceless. But how do I know you have this in
your possession?"

"Examine the photo again. I trust you recognize the figure in the background."

"Him? He is your ally?"

"As I stated before, my  group has formed new mutual, beneficial
partnerships. Including those with our former adversaries. I'm sure you
appreciate and understand the synergies of such an alliance."

"Cunning, aren't you? I wasn't wrong about you and your abilities. O.K.
I will consider your request."

"That is all I ask for."


"Then I will dispatch my right-hand guard with the details when the time comes."


"Then I will be on my way now. Continued success and happiness."

"As to you."

[Back at the love hotel]

Hatta: We're trapped!

Komatsu: We're doomed!

Hatta and Komatsu: We're gonna die!!!

K: Will you guys cool it? Before you drive me nuts and I kill you myself!

Komatsu: It's all your fault! We should kill you for making us take you here!

K: Sorry guys. I just lost my temper. But we have to keep our heads clear if
we're to get out of this situation.

Hatta: Just what are we gonna do?

K: Listen. I have a plan.

Komatsu: Uh Oh. Now we're in trouble!

K: Now what? I didn't even tell you about my plan yet.

Hatta: Yeah. But we know all about you and your "plans."

K: Hey guys! Have some faith in me!

Komatsu: I have more faith in your kawaii twin sisters!

K: Hey! Lay off the dirty thoughts off my sisters!

Hatta: We want some pleasant leacherous thoughts before we go!

K: No one is going to get hurt here. Not if I can help it!

Komatsu: Ooh. Tough guy here. What are you going to do? Break down the door?

Hatta: Hey...Kyo-buddy. That reminds me of somethin'. Don't you have the Power?

K; (shifts eyes nervously) Huh? I don't know what you mean...

Komatsu: (punches fist in hand) That's right! Of course you do! We caught you
red-handed displaying the Power right before our eyes way back in high school!
//refer back to anime

Hatta: Yeah, yeah, that's right! You can use the Power to get us out of
this mess!

K:  No, no, no
guys. You got it wrong. How many times do I have to tell you? It was all a
trick. You think a weakling like me would have the Power?


Komatsu: Got a point there. You're always getting beaten by your sisters. How
embarrassing! You carry a far greater shame than we men can bear. Only way you
could have perform that feat was by fooling everyone. Damn that was some
trick you pulled, especially for a high-schooler.

Hatta: Yeah. Maybe you should have become a magician instead of a
photographer. Probably did it to impress a girl, right?

Komatsu: I wonder what girl he was trying to impress.

Hatta: I thought it was Hikaru, right?

Komatsu: Or was it Madoka?

Hatta & Komatsu: Or was it both?

K: (*does a pratfall*) Hey guys! No time for your innuendo. Here's what I have
in mind.

(All 3 huddle up and whisper to each other)

K: 

[At the Twins house]

(Total lackadasical boredom here. Kazuya is taking a nap while Akane is giving
a lecture to Manami and Kurumi)

"...and as I was saying before, their total inequality in the workplace for
the Japanese woman. First, we woman are discriminated against and passed over
for the male applicants. The only way they can get hired if they attractive or
appealing to the chauvinistic bosses. And if they do get hired, they're only
delegated menial tasks such as paper filing or serving tea. They never will
have a chance to get promoted or gain new skills. And if they get pregnant,
they're expected to quit their job and just stay at home! Otherwise, those
rotten bosses will find a way to get those poor dears fired! Total injustice!"

Kurumi: (yawns) Is this getting anywhere?

Manami: Kurumi! You should be concerned about what Akane is saying.

Kurumi: I'm not too worried. If anyone tries anything, I'll just give them
a good pounding with my fists!

Manami: You can't be always solving your problems through force!

Kurumi: Of course you can. Right Akane? We have to show the man who's boss. If
you don't fight back, they'll just walk all over you.

Akane: Actually, both of you are right in a way. The main thing is we need to
make aware our issues of grievance to the public. Only with exposure and
discussion can we start to make a change.

(*Ding Dong*)

Akane: Who could that be at this time?

(opens door to reveal...)

"Madoka-san! I'm so glad to see you! Please come in!"

M: (a little shocked by Akane enthusiastic response) Umm thank you Akane.

Kurumi and Manami: Hi Mado-san! (waves)

Akane: So what brings you here?

M: I wonder if you have seen Kyousuke around.

Kurumi: Seen him? Why? Have you forgiven that big lug?

M: In my own way, yes.

Manami: That's great to hear you and oniichan are back together!

M: Thank you. Is he here?

Akane: Here? No. We haven't seen him for the past day. We thought he went
back to your place to stay.

M: No. That's very strange. I'm getting worried about him.


"Oh, Kyonichan can take care of himself."

Akane: Kazuya! You're awake!

Kazuya: He just probably wants some time alone to spend. Guys need their quiet
time, you know. A place to be by themselves.

Akane: Oh, what do you know about quiet time.

Kazuya: Hey, we guys need our rest when 2 girls are chasing him.

Manami: Especially those kawaii cuties chasing you Kazuya!

Kazuya: Don't bring that up! I have enough trouble not to get caught by them.

Kurumi: Knowing the lech that he is, he probably at a love hotel!

Akane: Kurumi! Everyone! We're not helping Madoka-san here. Any ideas?

Manami: Did you try his workplace?

M: I did. I called the Shiori at the station where he was working and she
hasn't seen him either. Her employer, a Ms Tamura-san has been inquiring about
him also.

Kurumi: How about calling Hikaru? He might be stowing away at her place.

M: I'm sure he's not there. Look at the time. Sorry to inconvience you. I have
to be leaving now.

Akane: Really? So soon? Can't you stay a little longer?

M: No. I really have to be going. Nice to see you all again. Goodbye.

(Madoka exits)

Manami: (tugs Kurumi's hair)

Kurumi: Oww! What was that for?

Manami: See what you did? You shouldn't have bought up Hikaru!

Kurumi: Hey, I was only trying to help. And look at whose using force. You
can't even follow your own advice.

Manami: You want force? I show you force! (bookcase starts to shake)

Kurumi: Two can play that game! (other bookstore starts to buckle)

Kazuya: Swell. Another "quiet" evening at the Kasuga residency.

//Madoka's narration
I left hurridly at the mention of the possibility of Kyousuke being at
Hikaru's place. Was it because I felt threatened inside? Earlier before, I did
catch Kyousuke in a precarious situation with Hik-chan. But she assurred me
that nothing was going on between the two of them. Yet there was still some
lingering doubt in my mind. How come I couldn't seem to trust her completely,
as if the two of them were trying to hide something from me?

But no matter what bad thoughts were flowing in my mind, I had to give Hikaru
the benefit of the doubt. She had been my best friend for so long. We've been
through so many tough times together and shared so many experiences with each
other. I was sure she wouldn't betray me just to get Kyosuke back for herself
again.

But this nagging doubt still lurked in my mind, growing stronger with each
passing minute. It was eating me alive. Was Kyousuke staying with Hikaru this
past day? If so, why?

Why was I so anxious to find Kyousuke? Maybe because we finally made up. After
I did catch them together in that hotel room, I had a long, private talk with
Hikaru. Again, she reassured me that there was nothing going on between the
two of them and that they were just friends now. She also explained how he had
been hired by Ryusei to take this photo shoot for the upcoming play and who
better to take pictures than Kyousuke, photographer extraordinaire. Naturally,
I believed her. What reason could she have to lie to me? And she gave me her
word. Never have she gone back on her word before. But then why was was the
evil pangs of green jealously raging through my veins now?

The mention of the idea that Kyousuke could be with Hikaru didn't help.
Kyosuke and I recently patched things up and none too soon. It was already
July and the Tanabata celebration was near. It was during this time period I
had my first special moment with Kyousuke. The day we finally realized and
expressed the feelings we had for each other after years of suppression. It
was an important "anniversary" of sorts for the two of us. That was why I was
anxious to find him.

I sat in my car, pondering what to do next. I slowly lifted my cellular phone
and dialed those magic numbers.

[At Hikaru's place]

(While Hikaru is in the opening up a package)

(*Ring Ring*)

H: Hmm? (places package down and picks up phone) Mosh Moshi? Hikaru and Shuri
residence?

M: Hi Hikaru. This is Madoka. How are you doing?

H: Hi Madoka! I'm glad to hear your voice. I'm doing fine. And you?

M: So-so. The reason I'm calling is that I was a little worried about Kasuga
and was wondering if you saw him during the past day?

H: Sempai? No. Last I saw him was at the swimming pool. Have you checked with
his sisters?

M: Yes I did. Also I checked his workplace.

H: Well I can ask #1 or #2 tomorrow if they have seen him. He might have
popped over to the studio to drop off the photoshoot. Or maybe he's busy
developing the pictures.

M: I never thought about that. That could be it. Thanks!

H: No problem!


(outside the door)
(*Knock knock*)
"Hikaru! What's keeping you? I've been waiting a long time in the lobby
already."

M: Who was that?

H: Oh, don't mind him. That's just my nosy costar Sugizawa at the door.

M: Sounds like you're kindof busy. I'll let you go then.

H: Ok. I'll see you later. Ja!

M: Ja!

(*click*)

(opens up door)

Sugizawa: What kept you?

H: We women need our time to get ready. (grabs purse) I think I'm ready. Let's
go.

[At the beach on an evening night]

(Ryusei sitting on the sand, knees up, staring out into the water as the waves
sway to and fro. Glimmers of moonlight shine down around him)

(He is holding two objects; one in each hand)

What was the real reason I came back? That was the question Ah May posed to me
during our get-together. I told her I wanted to find myself. That was true to
some extent. But the part of myself was tied to the past and one other
thing -- her.
//refer to book b chapter 10

(gazes into the picture of a woman in a swimsuit)

My wife. My only love. She was my life. A wonderful, delicate flower. This
photograph was my only remaining memory of her. It was takened when she was
very young and still innocent. When the world was still an idealistic place
to live in. That all changed with her passing. Everything else of her,
including my memories of her  were lost in that dreadful, horrible fire. Even
in my dreams, I only could sense fleeting images of her in my consciousness. I
tried so hard to remember. But I couldn't. As if some large slab of rock was
serving as a barrier to block me from my memories. Yet despite how
little I'd remembered of her and our experiences together, I still could feel
the strength of our love for each other. That much I knew at heart.

(stares at another object in his left hand)
And then there was her. The mysterious woman who literally popped into my
life. As if our meeting was ordained by fate. I was unnerved by our first
encounter. I was sure I was seeing a phantom at the time for she had an
uncanny resemblance to you; only a bit taller, more rugged looking, and
long glistening golden hair. I couldn't believe my eyes when I first
saw her. As if it was really you stepping down from Heaven to reunite with me.
Of course that was just fanciful thinking. But I had to be sure. In fact, I
thought it might have been your lost sister. She fitted all the characterics
#1 remember of her. Bold and rebellious; the one who left for America to
pursue her dreams. The profile was uncanny. I was sure I had found some
connection to you. But alas, it was not true.  I even had #2 perform an
extensive background check on her. Imagine my dissapointment to find out that
she was an only child. I was resigned to the fact that the almighty was merely
toying with me, like a marionette, tormenting me to endless suffering .

Nonetheless I felt this strange feeling being around her. A feeling of
familarity even though we had never met before. A very comfortable feeling.
And it seemed odd that we were always bumping into each other at the most
opportune times. Still, throughout all our encounters, I maintained our
distance together for the sake of perserving the strict employee/employer
relationship. One never should mix business with pleasure.

Yet, that night affected the balance of things. It was a very important
business party that I asked her to accompany me with. I did crossed the line
by using her to pose as my wife in order to effect business with my new
partners for my other endeavors. I felt very bad using her, yet she was more
than willing to assume the role for my behalf. I found it odd that she readily
accept this odd proposition. But eventually, I came to expect this quirky type
of behavior from this rambunctious young lady. Eventually, even I got caught
up in the moment of the roles we were playing. And then it happened. For that
one brief instant, while we were on the floor dancing, I felt as if I was truly
dancing on the clouds of heaven with my long departed wife. It was a sweet,
warm feeling where I forgot who I was or been. That led me to say things at
the spur of the moment. It was the first time in a long while where I felt I
had lost control of myself.

I couldn't help in a way feel that I was betraying my dearly departed beloved
in a way. Even though she was in a faraway place, I couldn't help but feel
guilty that I was cheating on her. And then it struck me. Something I had to
confront. I had feelings for this person, this scrappy, downtrodden young
aspirant who was this storybook, fairy-tale beggar girl who was princess for
that one night. And I was scared. For I had never had real feelings for anyone
ever since. I wasn't sure how I was going to cope with it. And then I went
back on this trip to Hong Kong.

I planned this trip long before but for totally different reasons. Now, it
felt like it was an escape, like I was running away from something I was
unwilling to admit. Something that could fundamentally change the course of my
life.

These past few days, the two schisms of my consciousness was battling it out
for control. But my cold, logical self slowly took hold. It would never work
out between the two of us. Both of us had different backgrounds. I was much
too old age-wise for her, despite my youthful looks. Plus she wouldn't be
interested in such a cold, stiff-mannered person such as myself. And for the
line of work I was involved in, it wouldn't be too safe for her. I would only
be jeopardizing the things I cared about and I didn't want to involve her in
my own private dealings.

(is looking at Jade Bracelet!)

Still, one never knows.

[in an isolated mansion high atop a hill all alone and surrounded by trees]

(*Klank!*)

        (*Klank!*)

                 (*Klank!*)

(We see an overhanging spotlight shining down at a glass enclosure concealing
the glint of rare jewels)

"Exquisite piece of craftsmanship."

"It certainly is, Goro-san."

"Adds a nice touch  to my collection of rare antiquity alongside the other
treasures."

(We see a highly ornate dagger with  pieces of precious jewels and gems
lodged all around it. It look remarkably like the one at the exhibit)
//Read Book B Chapter 6: The Ruse

"You are aware of the curse on this piece? I believe it runs like this:

'BEWARE
        THE POWER OF THIS TALISMAN.
       HE WHO WISHES TO POSSESS IT SHALL SEE THE PASSING
                OF HIS POWER ON THIS PLAIN.'

"Yes. I realize the implications about this silly curse. What do you take me
to be? A fool?"

"No, no sir. We must be wary of all possible pitfalls to the 'plan'.
You're not afraid of the curse, are you?"

"You do worry for my sake too much. Rest assured. I have nothing to fear from
it. It mystic powers are nothing compared with what I possess. It is I who
shall force it to do my bidding."

"We were lucky to be handed this precious piece on a silver platter by your
new partner."

"He just wants to join my extensive racket network. That was the price he had
to pay for entering my elite circle."

"Indeed, a fortuitous union. And very cheaply done."

"(rings out a evil laugh) Yes. A beggar king he is. And eccentric too.
To exchange this priceless artifact for a few measly stolen jewelry pieces.
Easy work to carry out."

"Do you want me to arrange the transport of this treasure to your haven?"

"Yesss. Do. Make it as soon as possible. I don't want to take any unnecessary
risks."

"As you wish."

"(gleaming smile) As it should be."

(exits down the corridor)

                        (*Klank!*)
                (*Klank!*)
        (*Klank*)

[Back to the trapped fellas at the love(hell) hotel]

(We see bedsheets tied together to form a make-shift rope and extending out of
the window and into the alley. One end is tied to the bedpost.)

Hatta: Why do I have to go first? I'm scared of heights!

Komatsu: Because you're the heaviest, you numbskull! Both me and Kyosuke will
be holding onto the sheets to support you while you climb down. You want to
get out, right?

Hatta: (*Gulp!*) Yep. But you better not let me fall!

Komatsu: Don't worry buddy; you already sweating off the pounds.

Hatta: (testy tone) Ha ha. (takes a deep breath) I'm ready now. Let's do our
best!

(Hatta steps out onto the window ledge, grasping the rope tightly with both
hands and wrapping his legs around the rope in his terricloth robe. Slowly, he
moves down the rope feet by feet. He is making good progress at the second
level until)

Hatta: Ohhhhhh shhiiitttt!

Komatsu: Quiet down! They're hear you.

Hatta: (whisper yelling) Baka rope is riding up my butt!

Komatsu: Stop ya complaining, will ya? Better hurry! My arms are getting
tired!

K: You're only a few feet away from the ground. Just jump it.

Hatta: Just a few feet more.

(Just as he is about to reach the ground, let lets loose of the rope)

Hatta: Woah!

(lands awkwardly on his feet)

K: Are you alright?

Hatta: Yeah. Think so. Except..owww....I think I sprained my ankle!

Komatsu: At least you're not a flat pancake now!

K: You're next. I'll hold it for you.

Komatsu: Thanks man. I always knew you were our best buddy.

(expertly grabs the rope and climbs down the rope like an acrobatic)

Hatta: Hey, where'd you climb like that?

Komatsu: Had some gymnastics experience when I was young.

(Komatsu stops in the middle)

K: Hey what are you doing?

Komatsu: You gotta check out this action! There's a belly dancer in there! And
guys dressed up in funny clothes. Must be foreigners!

K: Get a move on and control your voyeur urges! I can't hold on forever!

Komatsu: Party pooper, aren't you? Fine. I'll get my thrills elsewhere.

(climbs some more lands on the ground)

Komatsu: How's your leg?

Hatta: Kind of bad. I don't think I can put too much pressure on it.

(suddenly, the bedsheet rope falls down at their feet)

Komatsu: Hey! What the hell is happening?

K: Don't worry about me. You guys get along. I need to finish up some business
here.

Hatta: Are you nuts!?

K: No time to argue. Now get away from here. (exits from the window)

Komatsu: (helping Hatta walk on his sprained leg) And I thought his sisters
were crazy. Now I know where they get it from!

[At the museum]

Jackson: Hi, I'm Chief Inspector Jackson of the Tokyo Police Department. You
must be the curator of the museum.

Curator: Yes. Good for you authorities to come down so quickly. Especially
you, Chief Inspector. But I was expecting more of you to come down.

Jackson: Just me. We are strapped right now because of the breakthough in the
jewelery theft case.

Curator: Yes, yes. I understand the urgency of that. I saw it on the news.

Jackson: Good of you to not alert the media about this revelation.

Curator: Heavens no! Do you know the negative publicity it would generate for
this museum and for the whole country? It would be disasterous. For us to lose
a piece of antiquity from our respected Arabian allies --the lost of face
would be unbearable. That was why I privately contacted the police first. I
hope the matter can be resolve as quickly as possible. I have a feeling that
this is somehow tied to the theft ring case that was just cracked.

Jackson: You need to fill in me with some details in order for our force to
help.

Curator: Certainly, certainly. What do you want to know?

Jackson: For starters, how do you know the jeweled dagger is fake?

Curator: Well this is hard to explain. It's not fake but it's not the real
thing.

Jackson: I don't get you.

Curator: What I mean is this: All the jewels on the piece is genuine real
stones.

Jackson: If that's the case then what is the problem.

Curator: The problem is those are not the right jewels or right blade for that
matter. This piece should be over 1000 years old. Yet through our scanning,
detection equpiment, we were able to determine that these stones were freshly
cut during the past month. Now do you see the problem.

Jackson: I see where you're getting at. Apparently someone made an exact
replica of the dagger using real materials and made a swap of it.

Curator: You are correct sir. Someone did go to great lengths to create an
exact forgery. Thankfully, our modern technology was able to detect this.
However, this does not help for the real item has been stolen! Now do you see
the dilemma of my situation? Can you help me?

Jackson: Maybe. It's possible that some of the jewel pieces could have been
displaced from the real dagger and be part of the jewel cache we have in the
evidence lockup. I can do a check on that later. But first, I need to examine
the fake dagger. Where is it now?

Curator: In a safe place. Please follow me.

(follows the curator through a narrow hallway with detection camera all
around. Next, they come across what appear to be a wall-safe door. The curator
presses on something with his thumb and punches a code which releases the
door. Inside, is a vast room where all sorts of rare objects are stored. As
they enter, the door closes behind them. In the middle of the room is red
lasers crisscrossing each other, safeguarding its prized possession.)

Curator: Give me a moment to deactivate the lasers. (walks over to a terminal
and starts entering some commands)

(One by one, each dancing laser is deactivated. The cylindrical, clear
see-through plastic case covering is raised.)

(Resting on a red velvet cushion is a stainless steel case.)

Curator: (opens up the case) And here it is.

(The jewels sparkle in the spotlights above)

Curator: Marvelous, isn't it? Pity it's not the real thing.

Jackson: Has anyone touched this at all?

Curator: Yes. My examiners, but we took great precaution to wear gloves to not
contaminate the objects.

Jackson: Good. I'll have to take this in to get this dusted for fingerprints.

Curator: But sir! Don't you think you need a little more security to transport
this?

Jackson: No need. You did say this was fake, right?

Curator: That is true but these precious jewels are still of great value...

Jackson: So why should you care if you lose this or not?

Curator: But the exhibit for this piece starts next week and if we can't find
the real thing I need something to show! To give your department more time to
find the real one.

Jackson: Put your worries to rest. I'll just bring it in for my forensics
experts to examine and we'll cross-reference any similiarities with the other
case. I'll also have it dusted for fingerprints. Once we extracted all the
clues from this, I'll make sure this gets returned to you in time for your
exhibit or return the real thing if we're lucky. And I'll protect this with my
trusty Magnum. (pulls out gun)

Curator: No need to pull out your gun sir! I have complete faith in the
Tokyo police department and its ability to resolve this incident.

Jackson: Good. Then I'll be taking this and be on my way. (stashes it in his
trenchcoat pocket) Konbawa!

[Back at the love hotel]

(Kyosuke sitting on the bed deep in thought)

Now I was by myself and that was fine. I had removed Hatta and Komatsu from
the scene to keep them out of any trouble I was about to get in. In these
matters, I strictly worked alone, much like how I operated when I was over in
Bosnia. I always seem to get myself in dangerous situations and dangerous
places. And I face the danger alone for I could not allow anyone else I cared
for to get in the crossfire.

Being alone by myself in that locked room triggered a brief flashback to
Bosnia. I remember I was lying in the bushes close to the military compound
taking pictures of prisoners being escorted to some prison camp. I had just
snapped the next to last picture before I felt a sharp, blunt object careen
against my head and knocking me out.

When I came to, I found myself alone, in a dark locked room. It was a cold,
empty feeling to be trapped in this room in this trapped war-zone ridden
country. I figure they knew I was some foreign reporter correspondent and
that was why they kept me in a special room, apart from the other prisoners.
Ironic that foreigners get special treatment while they cage their own in
squalid conditions. I was hungry, I was tired. I thought this was the end for
me.

But of course what gave me an unfair advantage over others was the Power!. I
used it to escape my confinement and retrieve my camera which was in the next
room, amid the sleeping guards. As I tiptoed outside, I felt lucky and
fortunate to be free again. But what tempered my spirit was seeing the
open-air prison camp where the woman and children were being held like animals
in a cage behind the barbed wire. The guards were sitting around in a circle,
around a fire, playing cards and gossiping. Inside the prison, nearly all of
them were sleeping except this little girl. Her tiny little hands clasped the
rings of the chained fence. I escape detection from the guards except from her.
I looked at her and she stared back, in her deep, sorrowful, soulful eyes,
unmoved by my presence. As I escaped to freedom, I took one last look at her.
I felt so guilty leaving her and  her people there to slowly wither away and
die. I had  special powers; I could have used it to save them. But I couldn't
teleport them away from the hell-hole they were in; even that was impossible
for me. And even if I took out the guards, where would they go? The place they
call home was already devastaed or destroyed. They had no place, no country
left for them to go to. The only thing I could offer to them, these poor
condemned souls was a chance for their plight to be known to the whole world;
to let it be known the atrocities and human damage this war has caused. To
not let their suffering go in vain. So I used my last picture to capture the
haunting look on that little girl's face.

[On the streets of Osaka; 2am]

(Madoka joyriding in her red sports car)

I had been driving the whole night. It was early morning. I was just driving,
driving around to escape the mind games I was playing on myself. I was at a
crossroad doubting myself and the people around me. I wanted to run away from
all that. So I just drove whether whim would take me.

(At a light, she suddenly sees two strange people converge on her car from the
sidewalk and wildly waving their hands)

"Hey Stop! Can't you see us? "

M: Who are these two lunatics? (turns to the side of the window)

M: (rolls down window and exhibits a shocked look on her face) Seiji-san!
Kazuya-san! What are you two doing here?

Hatta: Yukata! Thank god we found you!

Komatsu: I thought we would be goners hanging around these streets! Come we
get in? It's very cold outside!

(Madoka flips a switch to  automatically unlock)

(Komatsu helps Hatta in first)

Hatta: So thankful that you came when you did! We were being chased by some
transvestites!

Komatsu: Can you turn up the heat? We've been freezing outside for at least 15
minutes. (shivers in his robe)

M:  Why are you two doing outside in those clothes? Very strange behavior, 
even for two H guys like you..

Hatta: (huffing and puffing) It was not our fault! Blame your boyfriend for
causing us all this grief!

Komatsu: Yeah. That crazy Kyousuke got us into this mess.

M: Kasuga? You've seen him?! Where is he now?

Komatsu: Old lover boy? He's still trapped up in that love hotel we took him
to.

M: What? Love hotel? What do you mean?

Komatsu: I mean us 3 were looking for some hot and heavy action at the love
hotel. It was Kyousuke's idea. We were more than happy to oblige. Didn't 
figure he would take us to some whacked out joint.

Hatta: Ruined my night!

M: 

Komatsu: We can't believe it ourselves. We barely escape with our lives.

Hatta: I'm so tired. Can you take us home?

Komatsu: But what about Kyousuke? We gotta go back for him. He needs our help.

M: Where is he? Tell me where he is.

Hatta: It should be very close by.

Komatsu: We're give the directions.

[Back to the love hotel]

I disabled the lock and slipped out of the room with ease. The coast was clear
for now. Evidently, the people who locked us up were probably going to wait
till early morning to deal with us. I tiptoed back to the main office at the
end of the hall. There, I saw our possessions there. I was about to grab it
until I heard someone coming.

There was no place to hide, so I did what came naturally. I used the Power! to
turn myself invisible. I stooped down around by the file cabinet.

Who came in was a shocker. It was the man I bumped into at Jade's apartment!
From the various rings on his fingers, he looked like he was the "boss" of
this select brothel for the rich and powerful. I was certain he played an
important role in the series of jewel thefts, possibly being the ring leader
himself. The connection between him and Jade, I was not sure and I didn't
want to know. Some sick, twisted story to be made into a made-for-tv drama
type of thing.  However, I suspected that it was him that ravaged her
apartment and planted the evidence there. Possibly, he had a vendetta
against her.

He was a swarthy, stout man, with a thick stubble around his face. He looked
like he served in the military before. He did not look like a man to be messed
with, especially with those thick hands of his.

He turned on the computer and stuck in the disks I had takened before. It
seemed to contain a list of names and items. He was marking several of the
names off the list. I managed to make out some of the items. Rings, watches,
bracelets, etc. I was certain it was a list of the victims and the jewelry he
had takened. But one thing was peculiar; if this was indeed tied to the jewel
heists, how would they know from whom they were stealing from and what?

When he was done, he took the disks and placed inside his back pocket for
safe-keeping. Apparently, he wasn't going to risk it being snatched away
again. He also took out a piece of paper and proceeded to light it before
throwing it into the garbage can. As he flung it my way, I flinched for an
instant for fear he had discovered me even though I was invisible. Then he
left.

I quickly doused the burning paper. Much of it was lost. From the fringes of
the paper, I could only make out the letters 'docks' and 'shipment'.
Something was going down at the docks; some shipment of some kind. The only
other characters that didn't make sense was 'Chameleon'. I did not understand
its relevance. I heard footsteps nearby and I was low on the Power!, so I
decided now would be a good time to leave. I grabbed our possessions and
teleported out.

I flashed into the alleyway behind some crates. A man just passed by
teleported in.  It was the same man from the office! He apparently heard some
shuffling and looked my way. Luckily, I ducked my head before he could see me.
That was another close call. I was taking way too many chances, like I did in
Bosnia. Was I being too reckless for my own good?


[Back to Madoka and company]

Komatsu: Now around this corner.

Hatta: I see him now! There he is!

(horns honk; Kyousuke is greeted and blinded by a flash of light. He squints
to see a red sports car and Madoka behind the wheel!)

Komatsu: Hey bud! You made it out! Good for you! Get in!

(Kyousuke tentatively opens the passenger door. Across, he sees Madoka's eyes
averting him and staring straight ahead.)

K: Madoka! I can explain...

M: (hurtful voice) Please. Not here. Not now. When we get back.

[The next day...]
[At the apartment]

(#2 talking on the phone)

#2: Huh? Yes. I got it Master. You're be returning on Monday evening from your
trip. Check. The arrangements will be made for your pickup. I'll be sure to
pass #1 the message. Bye now.

(Ryusei is in his hotel room relaxing. He is listening to Madoka's demotape
and specifically, the song which eventualy will be Kyousuke #1)

Music. The mirth that fills the air. The elixir which makes swallowing the
bitterness of life  more palatable. That which fills our heart with joy and
sorry and spans the emotions of living. Sad songs, happy songs, or just songs
in general. The universal language throughout all of eternity. That was its
intrinsic property: the power to influence and communicate . It was listening
to the soothful tunes of Madoka-san that calmed my nerves.

It made me realize why I decided to enter the entertainment business. To be
the agent for the stars. It provided an avenue for me to escape from the
complexities of my "other" life. To live vicariously through others. It seemed
so surreal, so peaceful. A perfect front to hide behind.

I decided to save the tape for myself rather than let it get into the hands of
the blood thirsty producers. They would have ruined the beauty of this song
through overexposure and hype. No, I couldn't let that happen again. I wanted
to be the one to release it at the right time. My time, when it was good and
ready. Several years ago, I wouldn't have done that. I "crashed and burned"
many a promising song for the exploitation of profit and gain on my part.
Although I really needed the money now, I couldn't do that to this song. That
was one of my intentions in coming here. Oddly though, I felt a special respect
to Miss Ayukawa Madoka and her work. In deference to her character and
demeanor, I didn't want to bastardize her work of art. I guess I was mellowing
out and losing my tough edge. So be it.

Madoka's melancholy melodies helped in other ways. It helped  ease the decision
I had made. To once again choose power over passion. Passion would be a
decaying strength, but power was absolute and everlasting. I made that choice
time and time again. My fate had ordained it. And I could not escape my fate.

(gazes upon an exact replica of the chessboard he has at his mansion, laid out
on the coffee table. He moves his hand over the board to move the black Queen
piece to perform the Queen's sacrifice.)

[Back to the number guys apartment]

(*Knock, Knock, Knock*)

#2: Who is it?

"This is the police! Open up!"

#2: Say what? You're just some guy in a trenchcoat.

(flashes badge) "Now open up before I break it down!"

#2: Ok, ok! Hold your horses! (unlocks door)

(Man barges in)

#2: Hey, what gives you the right to barge in here like that? You seem awfully
unconventional for a police officer.

"Chief Investigator to you. Where is Yitacki-san?"

#2: What? Why you want to look for him?

(holds up #2 by the shirt collar) "Listen punk! I have business with him. If
you don't tell me where he is, I'm going to make your life a living hell!"

"Let him go, Jackson. This doesn't concern him."

(flings #2 to the couch)

#1: #2. Go out and get us some groceries.

#2: Gladly! (rushes out in a mad panic)

#1: I see you spooked my friend here.

Jackson: It seems you have many spooky friends that needs to be spooked.

#1: So I'm here. So why are you here?

Jackson: To find you of course. You have been ignoring all the communication
I've been sending to you. So I decided to go to the source myself. And here I
am.

(Dog enters the room)

Jackson: So that's where our mangy, retired veteran ended up. You're lucky
I don't take you in for abducting a veteran of the force.

#1: You talk big for one on probation. So what do you want with me now?

Jackson: You know what I want. Information about the case.

#1: Information?  You already detained a suspect already. You should be
asking her the questions.  It doesn't concern me anymore.

Jackson: Oh, but it does! More so than I could have ever imagined. And I bet
you know every detail of it. Really, it would be a farce to expect the Tokyo
Police Department to believe that  a demure, vain  woman like Jade could have
ever orchestrated any large-scale operation  of this complex magnitude.

#1: Is that so? I see on the news that you fine officers are already
congratulating yourselves and taking credit for cracking the case. It seems
your opinion is in the minority here.

Jackson: What matters is that I'm right. And you know it. No, the real crooks
are still on the streets. And the stakes are much higher than I had ever
imagined.

#1: So what? It doesn't concern me. Rich people getting robbed. I would be 
more concerned for the common man if I were you.

Jackson: So that's why they kicked you out? Because of that arrogant
attitude of yours.

#1: I was the only one who was able to speak what was on my mind. No one
else had the guts to do that. Excuse me if my ass-kissing skills leaves
a little to be desired. Frankly, I don't care anymore.

Jackson: But you should care! Especially when I have this in my possession!
(takes out the stainless steel case)

#1: And what would that be? Your new toy?

Jackson: On the contrary, something more interesting. A Pandora's box of
trouble for you.  (opens up case to reveal the shiny Arabian jeweled dagger)

#1: (Hmmm) That's nice. Isn't that the rumored piece that was to be stolen
during the unveiling some weeks ago? You had heavy security that night. The
police did a great job in preventing it from being stolen. I wonder why you
have it in your possession now.

Jackson: It is connected with the exhibit at that time. Except for the fact
that it was stolen during the exhibit!

#1: Now you're sounding very paranoid. Your new elevated position must have
gotten to your head. Maybe you need to take some vacation.

Jackson: Now listen here! The joke's on you or your associates.

#1: I don't know what you are saying.

Jackson: We knew this piece was a high security risk for that exhibit. So it
made perfect sense to substitute a fake one just for the show. What I have
here is the authentic jeweled dagger.
//playing a hunch;

(#1's face still motionless)

Jackson: I bet somehow, a swap was made, most likely during the blackout. It
was perfect timing. Too bad whoever out there did it, they have a nice paste
copy of the original.

#1: It is very interesting, these theories of yours, but you should really
return to reality. And I have no time for your jibber-jabber. Please, I must
ask you to leave.

(picks up the case, closes it, and shoves it into Jackson's pockets)

#1: Now you must be going now.

(Taki growls menacingly)

Jackson: Not you too!

#1: Told you he was always partial to me.

Jackson: I'm not finished with you! You may have been my friend before, but I
can't let this go. Mark my words, I will not let up on this.

#1: I'm counting on it.

[Back at Hikaru's apartment]

(lying on her bed, in half-sleep)

(The package she had received now is lying on her bedroom dresser.)

H:  What time is it?
(checks to see it is about 4 in the afternoon.)

H: (turns her head to and fro tying to shake the sleep out)

Boy, was yesterday a long night. Originally, it was going to be another
practice session to rehearse our script, me and Sugizawa. But he had other
practice in his mind. After dinner, instead of going back to his place, we
instead went to a club/disco to dance. I hadn't been in one of those places
for a long time. At first, I objected, but later relented, thanks to the
sweet-talking of Sugizawa. Besides, it was a Friday night, and I didn't feel
in the mood to studying like in school. It was quite a while since the
reception party I attended with Haroken-san that I had a chance to relax and
have fun. That whole week, me and the rest of the other cast members were put
through another grueling week of practice by the ever sadistic Nagasi-san.

We danced pretty late too, with the spinning disco balls and funky flashing
lights. I think we finally went home at around 5am in the morning. I felt
totally wasted and instantly I flopped on my bed and shut my eyes.

Now, with some time to rest, I felt refreshed again. Being a dancer and
training aerobically boosted my body's recooperation powers.

That package I had put off opening still was lying on my dresser table. I
wonder who sent it. The suspense was killing me. I quickly ripped opened the
top.

(in pasted words fashion)

        "Hikaru Hiyama,

        I know your secret you are hiding! If you don't quit the production

        you are in now, I will expose you! To prove I mean business, I have

        sent the bottom half of the enclosed picture to the producers. I will

        send the other half with your face shown if you don't leave in 3 days.

        I have more pictures of you. If you don't do as I ask, I will send

	a picture to those you care for. I will be awaiting your action.


[End of chapter b11]