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                          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 1.0
                               December 31, 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 DO contain
adult themes, situations, and STRONG 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.animeyahoo.com

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 47th 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.

Side Note: I apologize for the many uses of STRONG, GRAPHIC language in this
last story of this Book B series. But I felt it was needed to express the
realism that goes with such a series titled HARDKOR and the ShinKor
tradition. I hope all of you are not too offended by it.

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 12: Goodbye Again

[At XYZ Studios...]

"Hello!"

(Muroke looks up from his computer)

Muroke: You're Kurumi-san, aren't you? Manami-san's twin.

Kurumi: Yep. So you remembered who I am.

Muroke: Yes, I can see the resemblance appearance-wise, but not in behavior.
You come much less frequently than Manami does.

Kurumi: That's because my sis is the dutiful type. Unlike her, I have a life.
When I'm bored, I help fill in for her. So whatcha doin'?

Muroke: Me? I'm playtesting my prototype computer game.

Kurumi: Computer game? You can play games at work?

Muroke: Kind of. I've already finish up my regular work, so this is a way to
finish up my pet project.

Kurumi: Ah, who are you kidding? We are know you're just goofing off on the
job. Take it from me. I'm a pro at loafing off. Don't worry. You can trust me.
I won't tell your little secret to anyone.

Muroke: It's not like that!

Kurumi: (ignores comment) So...tell me something about your game.

Muroke: Don't you have work to do?

Kurumi: It can wait. I'm more interested in what's moving on the video screen.

Muroke: (*sigh*) Well, if you're that interested, I might as well tell you the
plot of my game. Earth is engaged in World War III with a race of outer
space aliens. Most of the earth is devasted and the remaining population has
been relegated to bomb shelter centers. As a last ditch effort against the
aliens, the governments of the world have together formed a secret global
strike task force whose headquarters lie deep under the earth where they are
developing a new generation of mecha to combat these aliens.

Kurumi: Those portraits look great! Who are they?

Muroke: There the main characters of my game. Hikaru help draw them for me to
help me out.

Kurumi: Wow! Super! They look very cool.

Muroke: They should. They form the basis of my sci-fi medieval RPG.

Kurumi: Run that by me again?

Muroke: I mean even though the setting of my game takes place in the future,
there still is some old-world qualities about them. For instance, take the
male human character here. He is suppose to represent the introverted, shy,
figure in my story. Later, he will slowly grow out of that and discover
himself. Within the group is the leader, the golden-orange hair girl. She is
the exact opposite of him; vibrant, boisterous, and assertive. Similar to a
valkerie warrioress. She will grow also to learn humility. To complete the
trio is my purple-haired elfish female. She is quiet and demure, possessing
mysterious powers yet unknown. Like a magician type.  Very little is known
about her origin. Together, they man a set of newly sophisticated mecha whose
construction is mainly the result of 2 other females. One is a blonde-hair
nordic scientist and the other is a black-haired asian who is like the
supervisor of this band. The leader of the whole group is a scruffy,
middle-aged man who himself is very mysterious with an icy cold personality.
He'll be the one who will be dispatching them on the various missions in the
game. He has a side of corruptiveness to him, like a half-orc character.
You never know what his real motive is.

Kurumi: Say, aren't those 3 forming a triangle of some sort? Seem strangely
familiar from experience. And that old man reminds me of creepy Mr Haroken
with those glasses and stubble of his!

Muroke: It's not suppose to be a romantic game! I put that in there just to
add tension and conflict into the game. But you're right about me modeling
the head chief after the Master.

Kurumi: This is totally deep for a video game. You think people will get it?

Muroke: I hope so. But it's still a long way to go. At least I have the story
and characters down. Now I have to think of building the rest of the parts of
the game.

Kurumi: Think of a name yet?

Muroke: I have some ideas. Maybe something like "Core Dump" to indicate a
total meltdown in civilization as we know it. This quirky band is the last
chance for humanity against the evil space aliens from outer space. They must
find their way to the central computer of the organic "nerve center" of the
alien mothership and destroy it to save the world. But it could change. Hey,
where are you going off to now?

Kurumi: I'm goin' on my drink break. Your story has left me very thirsty.

Muroke: What a ditz. Makes you think like she was from outer space or
something.

[Back at the Ayukawa Mansion]

(Kyosuke is writhing around the couch downstairs sleeping)

(A door slams)

K: (mumbles) Madoka...

(rises up from the couch and sees the red sports car drive off)

I was there all alone by myself. She must have been real disappointed with me
since last night...


As we got back from my escapade last night...

Madoka came in first, silent but defiant as she poured herself a drink from
the wet bar and sat down at the main chair, her gaze carefully avoiding my
face. I sat down sheepishly, like a school boy waiting to be admonished. She
took a long sip of the brandy, took out a cigarette, and took a long, wispful
puff. She slowly exhaled the contaminent second-hand smoke right into my
face.

I was afraid to say anything at that point. That was when Madoka curtly said:

"I'm ready to hear you. You have 5 minutes to explain yourself out of
this situation."

She was giving me a chance. But I knew I couldn't hide anything from her now.

So I revealed the whole sordid story to her. Every detail of it. How I
suspected that Jade was not really responsible for the charges against her.
How I got a tip from Nagasi from the Studio to investigate her apartment and
instead bump into a guy who I thought was a suspect. And how that lead led to
me going to the love hotel and the fiasco with the gusy. I was afraid
she would find it so ludicrious like the first time I told her that I had the
Power!.


K: Well what do you think?

M: I don't know what to believe now. You sound as shifty as Hayakawa now.
There's too many suspicions here with all the women you mentioned. Now
I'm really not sure at all.

K: But I am telling the truth! Honest.

M: And it all boils down to that case you're investigating. Your strange
fanaticism with that story. I'm beginning to wonder if you value your work
more than me.

K: You can't mean that! Of course I treasure you above everything else. But
this is a question of justice; I cannot let an innocent woman take the rap,
especially if I know something that may clear her. Please understand the
situation I'm in.

M: Justice. Was that the reason you went to Bosnia? To bring an injustice to
light? That's very noble of you, but isn't that a vain attitude for someone
like you? Just because you have special abilities from the ordinary person
doesn't mean you can solve every injustice in the world. We live in an
imperfect world and no one can hope to solve all the problems that exist. But
sometimes, I wonder if that's the only think driving you, to the point of
endangering your own safety. It's not just you you're hurting; everyone you
care for gets caught in the crossfire, especially me.


K: I'm sorry for my reckless actions. It's true that I don't think of my own
safety first. But that's the way I am. I'm hope that is the type of man
you fell in love with.

M: We're not getting into that argument again. I feel tired now.
I need some time to think this over.

[Hong Kong: Kowloon Palace]

(Ryusei walking amid the dreary buildings)

Here I was again in familar territory; a forbidden city of its own right.
Where the gangs, triads, and low-lifes of the city and underworld hang out.
Blood-sin city it was. And my old stamping grounds. It's a wonder I got out of
this hell-hole alive. Hard to imagine I have progressed from being a bloodied
fighter to sophisticated dillettante.


(A playing card comes flying out of nowhere.)

(Ryusei neatly plucks it out of the air)

(A sophisticatedly dressed man wearing a fine red Armani vest steps out from
the shadows)

R: I assume this is yours? (waves the Ace of  Spades and then flips a card
back at him)

"You're the man who hides behind dark spectacles."

R: Yes. Haroken Ryusei is my name.

"I know who you are."

R: So? What do you want? Mr...

"Kouta. No more, no less.

R: Well, Kouta-san. You must be the man Mao was talking about. I don't meet
too many Japanese who works for Mao...
//See B11.txt for background details.

"I work with Mao. Not for him."

R: Forgive me for the oversight. I wasn't sure of your arrangement with him.
You like cards, don't you?

"Yes. Gambling is my profession. I am in the business of money.

R: As you should be.I assume you will be the person providing the necessary
monetary transfer?

"Perhaps. But not before a little test."

R: Test?

"I have heard about your exploits here. A fighter or dare I say it, a street
fighter?"

R: You can call it what you will. Question is what do you want to make of it?

"It is my business to identify "good" business investments. I don't lend the
"company's" money without proper cause.

R: So what do you suggest?

"A challenge worthy of your talents. And a bet. You always wore a mask when
you fought and now you hide behind those unfashionable sunglasses. No one has
trully seen your face. I would like the honor to unmask you."

R: Hardly a problem. If you wanted to see my ugly face, why don't you just say
so? (starts to take off his glasses)

"Apologies, but leave them on for now. It wouldn't be very sporting, would it?
I would prefer to play the game. So here's the odds. If I win, you give me your
glasses. If you win, then you will be worthy of this. (takes out an envelope)

R: If that's the way you want to play it. What's the game?

"A game of skill, challenge, and luck. One that would prove interesting to a
man of your talents. Allow my associates to demonstrate."

(5 ninja like men pop out)

"Consider it a sort of poker. Each man here has several cards on him. It is up
to you to find not only a card from each man, but construct a winning hand
against mine. All the while, they will be attempting to take your shades off.
If they succeed I win. If you pick too few cards, I win. If you have a losing
hand, I win."

R: So many ways for me to lose. Perhaps that will even the odds for you. I
find it acceptable.

"Good. Let us begin."

R: If you don't mind me saying so, I think you people have too much time
thinking of these playful schemes. Perhaps I might suggest this as an
action scene sequence for the next action movie flick that gets produced here.
I'm sure they would be amused by this.

"(laughs) You like to speak your mind. You won't make a good poker player.
But let us see what you can do in the physical arts."

(As the 5 men converge on Ryusei to attack him, he just stands there,
unflinching. Right when they are about to strike him, he ducks down and
delivers a roundhouse kick, sweeping all the men off their fight. As they try
to scramble to their feets, Ryusei plucks a card from the neck area of one
man. He swings out of the way of the hand punch and picks a card off the wrist
of another man. He chops the neck of another and takes a card from the back of
the mask. He knocks another guy off his feet and snatches the card from the
base of his left foot. Last, he delivers a stomach blow and reaches down into
the guy's groin to pluck out the last card.)

(Kouta claps)

"Very good. So the stories about you do not exaggerate. But now, how lucky
are you? Here is my hand."

(flings 5 cards at the brick wall to reveal 4 kings!)

"It was a worthy effort, but you might as well admit defeat."

R: You mean, this isn't enough? (flips up 4 cards: 1 queen 3 aces)

"Too bad. It looks like you are one ace short. My apologies."

R: You mean this ace? (flings the card to reveal the ace of spades)

"Impossible! I made sure the cards were losers."

R: I know. But check your pocket.

(Kouta takes out the card that Ryusei flipped to him earlier. It is that of a
joker!)

(merry laugh) "You are indeed a sneaky competitor. Indeed you are worthy of
Mao's trust. Here. (flings him the envelope) We may meet again."

[In a bed...]

I woke up the next morning and gingerly rubbed my head as the throbbing
headache persisted. As the pain subsided, I found myself under the covers of a
strange bed. Where as I? Why as I here. Owww...my head was pounding...

"Good Morning Hikaru!"

That voice....it belonged to Sugizawa!

"Sugizawa,...ummm did we spend the night together?"

"Yes, we most certainly did, just like old times. How was it for you?"

"It? ...I guess IT was ok.

"Ok? Now come on Hikaru; don't wound this pretty boy's ego like that. Now how
was it really?"

"It was great, honest!" lied Hikaru, shivering at the horrible mistake she had
made last night. "How about talking softer?"

"Still buzzed up from last night, aren't you? Well, I'll let you relax your
head while I go take a shower."

(Sugizawa departs into the bathroom)

Suddenly I remembered a little of what happened. It came back to be in a rush.
I certainly was overwhelmed by the sensation I felt when I received that
letter.

It was a blackmail letter. Detailing a mistake I made a long time ago in New
York.

It was after my first year, and the money I received from my father ran out.
And I didn't have a job at the time. I was very desperate. My rent was already
a month overdue. Bills were piling up. And I had to pay the school tuition.
I could have wired for money from my parents at that time, but I was too proud.
I couldn't bring myself to ask them for more monetary assistance. It would
have look like I couldn't take care of myself; that I was a child again in
their eyes. And what if Madoka or Kyosuke found out? I couldn't live it down.
I tried so hard to be independent and survive on my own and be an adult. But
what was I suppose to do?  Was this suppose to be the end of my dancing dream?
No, I couldn't let that happen, ...not after what I've been
through just to get here. If I go back, I wouldn't only be admitting defeat to
my parents and myself. But there was no other way for me or was there?
Desperate times called for desperate measures. So I swallowed my pride and did
it.

I exploited my body for money. It was Bruno, my Italian friend's idea. He
told me that I had such a great body and that I should use it. I took it as a
complement but I resisted the idea at first. I did have my principles. But as
the money crunch ate away at my inhibitions, I was slowly rationalizing to
myself that it was not a big deal and besides, it was for the money. But I
still couldn't believe I compromised myself for a few pieces of green.
Is that what this city does to innocent souls? No. Although it offered me the
temptation, I still had the choice. Nobody forced me to do it.

So I prostituted myself and my dancing skills at the exotic dance club called
"The Kinky Korner". I felt guilty, degrading the skills I learned for exotic
dancing on the stage. I wore very skimpy clothing that let nothing to the
imagination. As I shook my chest and hips as the strobe lights ran all over my
body and jiggled my privates to the hard beat of the music, I felt this
strange, empty feeling. Like an anti-star. Performing a bastardized form of
dance for a lower than low breed of people who got off with this sexual
entertainment. It felt dirty as the fat, greasy regulars stuffed their dirty
money into my bikini bottom and pawed all over my lower areas. I never felt so
humilated and denigrated and used in my life. There was so many flashing
lights and the music blared in my head that I thought I was in a surreal world
which I couldn't escape. And I was the jailer who imprisoned myself in this
self-made jail.

I put up with this act for about two weeks. It was all about money, plain and
simple. And like it or not, sex sells in America. I kept rationalizing to
myself I was the one winning, because I was depriving those fucked bastards
all their money for some cheap thrills. That they'll eventually have no more
money left and stop coming. But it didn't help things much. It still felt
like they were getting the better end of me. For they were just wasting their
money while I was wasting away my soul. I was the one selling out.
They may have been the sex-crazed addicts, but I was part of the problem by
supplying them with the sexual fantasies.

I could have been still dancing at that club if it wouldn't for an incident I
had with the head of the club. His name was "Fast Eddie" and there was a
reason for that. He is probably one of the most despicable, lecherous human
beings I've ever met. He was a gold-chain sugar-daddy and pimping was his
off job. But it was what he did to me or tried to do to me that shook me. I
would never forget it for the rest of my life. I...I still shiver violently
everytime I think of it. I had just finished my act and I was in the dressing
room cleaning myself off. I could hear him come up from behind me with the
shaking and clanking of his jewelry pieces.

He placed his clammy hand on my bare, left shoulder and said:

"You did a good job out there tonight honeybuns."

I thank him for his compliment and thought he would leave me alone. But he did
not release his hand. Instead, he said:

"You're looking so very beautiful and sexy tonight and you smell great. Wow,
sexy mama, your Asian beauty is driving me wild tonight. How's about we come
back to my office and get it on?"

At first, I thought he was kidding and I gently brushed away his hand from my
shoulder and said that he shouldn't be that playful with the performers.
But he wouldn't let up. I was shocked when he starting kissing me at the back
of my neck.

"Mr Eddie!" I shouted with my best English. "Please stop now!"

"Woah, what's wrong baby? Don't you like it?"

"No, I don't. Please go!"

"Now don't act that way. Sugar Daddy Eddie will treat you well. Now be a good
girl and let me have my way."

I was shocked when he started unzipping his pants. Then I realized what he
wanted. He wanted sex from me. Being a naive girl at the time, I didn't know
he "did" the performers on a regular basis. And now, it seems it was my turn.

Now came a decision for me. The most important decision of my life.
If I wanted to keep my job here at the club, I had to sleep with him. Do I
bite my tongue and go through with it? I had already gone this far. But  I
already knew the answer. I couldn't consent to this dirty act. I knew I
compromised myself already, but I couldn't go that far. It was
one thing to exploit my body but to give it up unwillingly to another man;
that was all I had left, my last ounce of pride, and I drew the line there.
Otherwise, he would own me forever and I could never live with myself.

"Mr Eddie. Stop this now! I don't want to have sex with you at all. Or ever!
Get off of me now!"

"Feisty little bitch you are. Too bad I don't give a shit. Now shut your
fucked mouth and let me fuck you all over."

What happen next few moments went like a blur to me. He grabbed my tiny hands
and pinned me down to the floor. Then I knew what I wanted to do to me. I
tried to squirm my way out of his grasp, but he was simply too strong. I
screamed, but it was drowned out by the music. He slapped and punched my face
a couple of times across the face trying to quiet me. But I kept on
screaming. He was distracted, with me yelling, and he trying to hold me down
with one hand and rip off my top with the other. I had but one
chance to avoid him raping me. I hoisted my strong, able dancing legs and
delivered a mighty blow at his exposed groin area. The impact sent him
reeling to the side, squirming in great, excrusiating pain.
I quickly grabbed a robe and my bag and ran off, covering myself and sobbing
all the way outside. I never ran so fast in my life. For me, the rape attempt
was a life and death experience. For I would have died spirtually had I been
raped. I could not have lived with myself ever. For such an experience would
scar me emotionally for life. I could never look at another man the same way.
I would rather die than let another man violate my body. And so, from that day
forward, I swore to myself that I would never let another man rape me, for I
would rather die trying to resist him. And I made myself another promise
to never again strayed away from my principles. If I have to starve and
shiver on the streets homeless, so be it.

But I had already made the mistake, and now it was coming back to haunt me.
I was now at the mercy of this blackmailer.

[At the love hotel]

(As a man enters a dark room)

(*Click*)

(Light switch goes on)

"Don't move."

(A gun is place at the base of the intruder's head)

"Well, well. It seems like you are in a precarious situation."

"Am I? You should watch your back more."


(*BITE!*)

"Arrgghh!"

(The intruder takes advantage of the split-second distraction to knock the gun
away and whip out his own gun)

"Now whose in the vulnerable position now Colonel?"

"Hmph! Nabbed by your mongrel. I should have known you had help. Now get him
off my leg!"

"Taki, move off."

(As Taki backs away, he growls menacingly at the man)

"One of these days, I'll shoot that fucked son of a bitch."

"Over my dead body."

"That's what's I'm hoping. But at a later time when the colors change again."

"You're that sure, aren't you?"

"The tide can change quickly and violently in an instant. And I'll be
waiting."

"As will I. But that is not why I came here. "

"There's no more that needs to be discussed. We got what we wanted. That's all
I care about."

"Ah, but my master has some reservations that I thought you might want to
know."

"No changes! And to tell it straight, I don't give a shit!"

"Even if it means the jeweled amulet you have in your possession might be a
fake?"

"What? Impossible. You're lying!"

"Whether I'm lying or not is another thing. You should be asking yourself how
reputable your Arabian friends are in securing the actual item. Perhaps they
have the real items still in their mother country and bought over a forgery.
After all, you're Japanese. Why should they care whose money they get? To them,
you're gullible fools to be takened.

"Why are you telling me this for now? You're just trying to trick me. I don't
know what game you're trying to play here but I'm not buying it."

"If you want to be tricked, that's fine. But when my master meets up with your
boss, I don't think he would be very happy. And who would he direct his blame
on? I heard your boss doesn't take to failure that well, especially those
close to him."

"Keep your sentiment to yourself. You're obviously wasting my time. Now get
out before I throw you out myself!"

"Ja Colonel." (gives a mock salute)

[At the TTV Station]

"Kasuga-san. Feel like making it in again?"

K: Sorry about the odd hours Shiori-san. I was hung up on the investigative
journalism part. How's Tamura-san?

Shiori: You're lucky she's swamped by all the press attention that has
surrounded Jade and her alleged connection with the thefts. It's a media
circus this whole week. And I had to cover with Johnny Oh! You know what a
pain that is. I haven't gotten a good 4 hours of sleep this week.
(gulps her coffee)

K: Sorry about not coming in and giving you a hand.

Shiori: Well, you can help now. There's going to be another press conference
today at 1:00p.m. You can get your butt down to City Hall. I'm too tired to
help fill in for you.

K: Sure thing. And if it's not too much trouble...

Shiori: Now what do you want me to do?

K: Can you do a little investigative probing and see if you an find any
articles concerning "Chameleon" and any thefts.

Shiori: Chameleon? Thefts? Why?

K: Don't ask. It's all the clues I could scrounge up. But I don't know what's
the connection, if any. Can you do it as a big fav for me?

Shiori: You owe me a lot! I expect you to take me out for lunch for a whole
month!

K: Done! I'll treat you next time. In the meantime, I have a press conference
to cover.

[Back to the bedroom]

(The shower still on)

I layed in bed, trying to reaccount the events which took place.

It was late Friday when I received the note. I was devastated by the note.
I didn't know what to do. Who would send this to me? And why? A thousand
questions whirled around my head. I felt so depressed.

It was then when I heard the door bell ring.

Then I remembered that I was suppose to meet Sugizawa later that night. It was
a date of sorts. After days of pestering, I finally relented and consented to
go for dinner and dancing that night. And now he was here.

I couldn't ruin the night by letting him see me all depressed. So I quickly
wore my red mini-skirt and orange blazer. I then answered the door and greeted
him with my best possible smile. He didn't seem to notice the difference.

We went out to a more conventional resturant this time; a clique sushi place.
He did most of the talking, add more tidbits about his return back to Japan
and his daily happening. I just silently sipped my drink and nodded like a
hostess would. He seemed to enjoy the sound of his voice more with my company.

After that, we went to a nearby club. It was like your regular club like Disco
Moebium, except it was more upscale and geared for adults. He had your typical
bar and dance floor. The name of the place, I forgot. But I knew it was not
Shin ABCB. Thank God for that. I couldn't bear to face anyone familiar knowing
what I knew, which I kept inside me like a scarlet letter of shame.

But as the night wore on, I felt more and more disheartened and depressed. I
sat at the bar most of the time, while I encouraged Sugi-san to go mingle with
the other pretty girls on the floor. After all, I reminded him that we weren't
"a thing" anymore and that this was more like a "buddy date." He seemed kind
of disappointed at first, but he could tell I wasn't in the mood to party
tonight. I decided that there was nothing better to do, so I decided to drown
myself in sorrow, rather than dwell on the note. I decided tonight, I would
forget about everything. So I drank shot after shot of brandy. The bartender
was amazed at my drinking ability, but I told him it was an acquired skill.
A coward's way of doing things, I know, but effective for putting off the
inevitable,...at least for a while.

At some point, I must have gotten thoroughly drunk. The next events, I don't
remember too clearly. A slideshow of blur images was all I could recall. I
think at some point, I was so loosened up, I must have gotten on the dance
floor. I was shaking it down with Sugizawa I believe, or was it someone else?
I wasn't really sure. But I must have overdid it; I felt a pain on my
backside. I must have collapsed either from exhaustion or from the booze.

From that period, I blacked out. Sugizawa probably picked me up and we rode
back to his apartment. I remember coming to  when he opened up the lights to
his apartment. It felt like a sharp glare stinging my eyes. I briefly saw his
eyes staring merrily at my face. But I felt funny being held by him in his
arms. I felt I was in the arms of the wrong person. But the person who I
really wanted to be with was not here.  That this was not
right...I don't feel so well now. What was going on? Why am I doing this...?
But the intoxicants was dissolving away my resistances and soon I didn't care
who I was with. I just needed someone to "release" me from all this negative
energy that was building up inside of me. So I "spent" the night with
Sugizawa. The spent condom wrapper on the night dresser served as a reminder
of our night together.

[At the Shin ABCB]

M: Pour me another one.

"Don't you think you sunk one too many spirits down?"

M: You should keep to yourself. I should tell Master about you.

"Edgy aren't we today? I sense some cacophonic vibes from you. My job though
is to get the customer back into the right groove, and that includes making
sure you sharp enough to drive back.


M: I'm perfectly fine, thank you. And I don't need you butting into my
business. Master will have a fit when I tell him how you're harassing the
customers."

"Lady, technically, I am the Master, at least for now. Your Master will not
back 'til tomorrow."

M: I know that. So I'll have to put up with you instead, don't I?

"Say the Master title seems a little too impersonal for me. Rather than get
confused, you can just call me Pan. That's what all my friends call me.
And you look too good. Reckon you want to let me in on what's getting to you?"

M: Why should I?

"That's our specialty of us barkeeps: lending a sympathetic ear. And from my
experience, you look like you're experiencing a couple of out of tune notes
in your relationship?"

M: So what if it is? I pay to serve, not bore me with your talk.

"Feisty, aren't you. I'll try to liven up the talk for you. So, problems in
paradise. So what's new? That's what 90% of people come in for. A broken
heart. Though I'm suprised a beautiful girl like you would have problems.

M: Flattery will get you nowhere Pan Pan.

"One Pan will suffice."

M: Well I tell you what. I'm going through a major crisis with my boyfriend.
I'm crazy about him. Problem is, he's crazy for his work. A little too
fanatical if you ask me. Sometimes, I wonder if he values his work more than
me.

"Women always assume the worst, but you shouldn't worry too much. We grunts
have to walk the fine balance between work and personal life. We might stray
too far into one or the other. Have you talked to him about it?

M: Constantly. Now, he's driving me up the wall. I'm afraid one of these days,
his work is going to kill him. He's not the world's most coordinated person
and he suffers from eternally hard luck. He doesn't realize how much I worry
about him. He is so insensitive to my needs.

"But you still dig him, don't you?"

M: Yes. Very much so. But I'm afraid this might divide us and even break us
apart.

"Sounds like both of you are out of tune and rythm. But relationships are
like that. The trick is for the both of you to find the right groove.
Some activity to bring the special feeling back.

M: Activity...well we did have our first special moment together during the
Tanabata celebration some years back.

"Tanbata, the festival of the moon. The time where two lost lovers come back
together again for a slow dance in the sky. Just a few days away and the
perfect opportunity for a romantic gig."

M: Maybe there is something we can do that night. I'm sorry I'm snapped at
you just now. I guess you're not too bad of a substitute bartender for Master
after all.

"I guess not. And don't be sorry. I can take a pounding and dish it out.
And I do play a mean pair of drums." Speaking of which, I'm playing Monday
night. If you and your boyfriend feel like dropping in, the band might play
a song or two to your liking.

M: Thanks for the offer. I look forward to it. We just might drop in. You
never know.

[On the way to City Hall]

(Kyousuke sees Madoka inside the ABCB as he is traveling in the news van.)

K: Madoka...

"Hey. (person snaps his fingers) Look this way."

K: Why?

"Because I'm the one, the only, John-n-n-ny O-H! That's who. Now don't forget;
take my camera shot when I'm facing to the left. That's my good side."

K: <Oh brother! Why do I have to work with this stuckup anyway. And I gotta
talk to Madoka after this. >


[At the park]

(Inspector Jackson is taking his customary jog through the park)

(A rather peculiar blind man is walking along coming from the other side,
taping his cane)


(Suddenly, without warning, the blind man sticks his cane right in the path
where Inspector Jackson is jogging)

(There is a great fall as both men crumple to the ground)

Jackson: Oww! Man o man, why can't you watch where you're goin'?

"Is that a joke sunny?"

Jackson: (realizing his folly) I'm sorry sir. I didn't realize your
condition.

"You're lucky I don't report you to the police! I know a lot of people there."

Jackson: (smiles to himself) I'm sure you do. Let me help you to your feet.

"Of course you will, sonny!."

(clumsy tangling of arms)

Jackson: Hey watch it! Easy on the hands. You're poking at my stomach.

"If you weren't so fat with a pot-belly, I wouldn't have to poke you. Now get
my cane boy."

Jackson: Here. <muttering to himself> Crazy old man.

"I heard that!"

(*SMACK*)

(Blind man delivers sharp blow at Jackson's left ankle)

Jackson: What the hell?

"Gomen. But your feet was in the way. Good day."

Jackson: (still jumping up in pain and holding up his swollen left ankle)
That's what you get when you bump into a grounchy old blind man. Hmph!

(Limps about 100 yards, and puts his hands inside his center pocket. There he
discovers a cigarette)

Jackson: Now how did that get there. What's this? Hey,..that's his mark.

(turns around quickly, but he can't find the blind man anywhere)

[Back at the apartment]

(Hikaru comes out the bathroom all dressed up)

Sugizawa: Hello, my darling. How was your shower?

H: It was fine. Listen, about last night. I hope you didn't get the wrong
idea...

Sugizawa: No need to say anything more. Last night was wonderful. I think we
can have a fresh start together again, here in Tokyo. It would be better, I
promise.

H: But how can you say that? Are you still seeing Nagasi-san?

Sugizawa: Her? I don't need to use her anymore. Besides, the production run
for the play is so near that I won't have time for her. Since we will be
spending most of our time together, it would make for the perfect opportunity
to rekindle our relationship.

H: You slept with Nagasi-san to get the part?

Sugizawa: Yep. I was her boy toy. She a real looker and we were both willing.
Besides, that's the way everyone does it. Don't worry. I can see both of you
at the same time until the time comes when I'll break up with her once the
play is done.

H: I'm shocked!

Sugizawa: Now stop sounding so high and mighty. I figure you did the
same thing sleeping with Haroken-san right? I have no problem with that.
Comes with the territory.

H: What! (wrath of Hikaru springs out) How can you say that? What type of
person do you take me to be anyway?

Sugizawa: Quit the act, will ya? You know as well as I that if you were
serious about your dreams, that you would do whatever it takes to get to the
top.

H: I don't believe I'm hearing this from you.

Suigziawa: What's wrong? I don't understand.

H: You obviously still don't understand a thing about me at all, even after
all this time. I got the part because of my ability. Not because I was
sleeping around.

Suigzawa: Hey...I'm not saying you can't dance. You're a fabulous dancer. But
so are 20 other girls. Sometimes, you got to do the things to put put you over
the top. Getting into the sack with the big boss sure helps speed things along.
And I seen the way you act when you two are together. Mighty good acting job
you're putting on, if I don't say so myself.

H: You will never learn, will you?

Suigzawa: Now wait just a moment. I don't see why you have to make a big deal
about this.

H: It is a big deal, especially for me! I would never sacrifice my body to
gain a shortcut, even for my dreams. I almost learn that lesson too late. I
regret I didn't realize it sooner.

Sugizawa: I told you already; it's not a big deal for me.

H: Yo know what? You should go back to Nagasi-san. You two deserve each other.
Consider what little we had together finish. I'm leaving now.

Sugizawa: But Hikaru! Come back here.

H: Goodbye! (slams door)

I closed the door completely on one of the demons from my past now.

[At City Hall]

(Kyousuke is hanging out covering the press conference by the police
department)

"...And to conclude, we are making considering progress in the theft case
that has been ravaging this fine city for the past few months. When we have
finished the forensics study and made our conclusions, we will begin to
press formal charges against the suspect in custody as early as this Monday."


Johnny Oh: "And there you have it folks. Head of Tokyo Police, Chief Nogami
has given the first press conference since the arrest of JADE, the
once-popular pop star. Crowds here are buzzing amid speculation that her
arrest is merely a publicity stunt to boost her ailing career. Others
speculate that she indeed was the ring leader to rob from the wealthly folk
to pay off her huge gambling debts. More rumors hint her fill-in double as
the actual one involved and that she is being framed. What is really the
truth? Here at TTV News, we aim to find the truth for you so you don't have
to. Stay tune for daily reports on this amazing case that's sweeping the
nation. From the looks of things, this has the potential to equal the
sensational celebrity murder trial over in the United States. Katy,
back to you.

Johnny: Cut! Ok people move out! You! I want to talk to you.

K: Me?

Johnny: Yeah you. Camera boy.

K: What for?

Johnny: A problem.

K: What is it?

Johnny: You.

K: Me?

Johnny: Yeah, you boy. I hate slackers. No one in my crew skips off an
assignment and especially on my beat when the great Johnny Oh is covering
this hot story. You're damn lucky your whatshername girlfriend came in and
covered for you. But I am not so generous. Obviously, it shows the lack of
respect on your part for the job. And intern or no intern, I expect you to
be here when I'm here. Is you miss your next assignment, consider youself
majorly fired! Is that clear enough for your head, Mr Kasuga?

K: (mockingly) Loud and clear SIR! And the woman you're talking about is
Shiori...

Johnny: I don't want to hear about your love-life, because frankly I don't
care. You work for me, you understand? Now get that film back to the station
so my face can get on the evening news.

(Right when Kyousuke is leaving, Jackson is running back to the precint.
He then sees and recongizes Kyosuke)

Jackson: Hey you! There you are! Don't move! You're the person I've been
searching for!

K: Oops! The law is looking for me again. Better run!

(runs off from the scene still holding a camera)

Johnny Oh: Get back here you miserable runt! I'm not done here yet!

(Jackson chases him into an alley, but Kyousuke has already teleported!)

Jackson: Now where did he go?

Johnny: (running up to him) Hey guy. You're Chief Inspector Jackson, the
gaijinn.

Jackson: And you're chief slimeball, Mr Oh Johnny.

Johnny: Please, please, don't let your dislike of the press affect your
professionalism. After all, we both have our jobs to do.

Jackson: I call it more hate than dislike. And I have no problem with the
press; just you.

Johnny: Now come on. You're not still sore about the searing series of reports
I did questioning your competancy in the Tokyo Police Department, are you?
That's old news now.  But I don't care what you think of me. What I wanna
know is what did you want with my cameraman just now? Is he some kind of
fugitive or something.

Jackson: That's none of your business! I'm not about to divulge any
information while an investigation is pending!

Johnny: Ahhh, so it does have to do with the theft case, doesn't it? So
does my cameraman know something about the case? Is that why you wanted to
stop him? To question him about it?

Jackson: (shoves him aside) Get out of my way!

Johnny: <You don't have to tell me. Your silence is answer enough. So...
my assistant might have some hot little scoop that he is not revealing
to the rest of the crew. Bad, bad, bad. But I will take care of that...>


[At the Shin ABCB]

(Kyousuke enters)

K: (looks around) Madoka? She's not here. She must have left.

"Hey bro!"

K: Barkeep, are you calling me?

"Yes. You're Kasuga Kyousuke-san, the guy on TV?"

K: Yes I am, but I don't have any time to sign any autographs and anything
like that...

"Take it easy. I'm not looking to bother you. Just that by the way you
were scanning the place, you were looking for someone."

K: Yes I am. But she must have left.

"She did, but not in the best of shape."

K: You let her drive home drunk?

"No, no. She's a tough girl. She can hold down her liquor. No, she's in
worser shape from a broken heart."

K: Hey...what has she been telling you?

"Enough for any old joe like me to know things are not mixing well between
the two of you. A word of advice for you."

K: And what would that be?

"Don't forget about Tanabata. It's on a Monday, and it should be a romantic
night for lovers, don't you agree?"

K: Tanabata...that's right! I nearly forgot in the midst of all this
trouble I'm in. <How could I forget the most special day of my life?>
Thanks for reminding me. Mr...

"Pan will do. For one cool cat to another, just keep groovin'"

K: Will do! There's something I need to do.

[Back at the apartment]

(#2 is taping away at the computer)

(Person comes in)

#2: Hiya #1. Hey is that you there?

#1: Yeah, it's me. Taki. Come in.

(Taki prances in)

#2: What's with the retro outfit? You look so ancient!

#1: My undercover outfit. There's work to be done tomorrow.

#2: Ah come on! It's Sunday! It's the only day I get off.

#1: Not this time. Something big will be going down tomorrow and I need you
to track it for me.

[Back at Ayukawa mansion]

(Kyousuke flashes back in and takes a look and sees a slumbering Madoka
lying on the couch)

K: She must not have made it all the way from the liquor. And she looks so
peaceful like a baby. I'm sorry Madoka for all the worry I caused you. I
promise I'll make it up to you.

(thinks of something neat and smiles)

(poofs up a blanket like a magician and covers up Madoka)

M: (mumurs in her sleep) Kyousuke...

K: Sleep tight, my angel.

[Back at police headquarters]

"Hey Jackson! The guys and I are going down to the local pub to booze. Feel
like comin'?"

Jackson: Not tonight Natsumi. Got some stuff to catch up on.

"Suit yourself, party pooper! Ja man."

(waves bye bye)

Jackson: Am I going out of mind or is there something with this cigarette?
I've already scanned the inside of it and there's nothing unusual about it
other than the usual toxic contaminants. There must be something about it
I'm missing. But what is it?

(rolls the cigarette and gazes intently on it in concentration. He does this
for a few minutes before he loses patience.)

Jackson: Ah fuck it! To hell with him and his jokes. I'll just smoke the
damn thing!

(lights it up and takes a long puff)

Jackson: (sighs) That's better. Nothing like a good cigarette to get rid of
the stress.

(when he goes to tap the cigarette in the ash tray, he starts notices some
strange marks appearing around the cigarette; he quickly puts it out and
takes a look)

Jackson: (realization!) Ah, you sneaky devil! Invisible ink! I should have
known!


[Sunday]

[At Hikaru's apartment]

H: (on phone) Hayakawa Mitsuru please.

"Yes. This is he. Who is this?"

H: Ah yes, Hayakawa-san, this is Hiyama Hikaru.

"Oh yes, the dancer that Haroken-san raves about. Yes, what can I do for you?"

H: Since Mr Haroken is not here, I assume you're acting on his behalf.

"I am his partner so I do have a say in things. What's the problem?"

H: I don't know how I should say this but I'll say it anyway. I'm quitting
the play.

"You're what?"

H: I'm quitting. I'm sorry about all the trouble it will cause both of you
and your company and all.

"You're quitting? You must be kidding."

H: No I am not. I am quite serious about my intentions.

"There must be a reason why. No reason why a pretty girl like you would
just quit. Were you uncomfortable at the studio or with the cast? Because
if there was a problem, I can get someone to fix right away."

H: No, no. It's nothing like that. I have a good rapport with the rest of the
cast members. No, it's me. I have to go back to New York. For personal
reasons. I cannot say anything more than that. I hope you'll understand.

"Look honey, I'm more concerned about you. Why be hasty about these things?
It's a big decision you're making and a big chance that you're blowing off.
I don't think it's something you can decide on impulse. You need some time
to think it over. Why don't we talk this over a couple of drinks? My treat."

H: I wish it could be that way, but my mind is already made up. I'll be
leaving Monday evening. I'll stop by the studio to pick up my stuff and
give my farewells.

"But wait..."

(Hikaru hangs up on him)

Hayakawa: Oh shit! How am I going to explain this to Haroken-san?!


[At Ayukawa mansion]

(*Ding Dong*)

(Madoka stirs and suddenly sits up. She realizes that she must have been
sleeping the whole night)

M: My, look at where the time's gone. 9:00am already!

(*Ding Dong*)

M: <I better get that>

(opens the door to see a delivery man)

"A Miss Madoka Ayukawa?"

M: Yes, that's me.

"Here you go. (hands her a bouquet of freshly-cut red roses) Good day!
(tips his hat)"

M: Roses? I wonder who could it be from?

(opens the card)


        My dearest Madoka,

        I know I have been a jerk,
        to have neglected you so long,
        But give me another chance,
        at the steps where we first met at 2.


[At the apartment]

(#2 on the phone)

"Hello Manami-san?"

Manami: Yes?

"Hi, this is #2."

Manami: Hi! I was wondering when you will call. I looking forward to going
to the baseball game with you.

"Yes, about that, I'm afraid I'll have to cancel, both me and #1. There's
something that just came up. I'm really sorry."

Manami: That's ok. Maybe we can do it some other time.

"I really wanted to take you to see the Tokyo Giants in action. But it
doesn't need to be a total waste. I have the 4 tickets to Kurumi-san so you
2 and some friends can go."

Manami: That's really nice of you. Duomo Arigatou!

"I'll see you next week. Ja ne."

Kurumi: Who was that?

Kazuya: The number guy.

Manami: Kazuya! How many times do I have to tell you not to eavesdrop on
other people's thoughts!

Kazuya: S-o-r-r-e-e-y!  But we're going to a baseball game!

Akane: (coming in) Who is going to a baseball game?

Kazuya: All of us are! You got the 4 tickets, don't you? (looks towards
Kurumi)

Kurumi: Oh yeah, tickets. Takes it out of the back pocket. Nearly forgot
about these. They play at 1pm. Should be plenty of time for us.

[Back to the TTV station]

K: Good morning Shiori-san.

Shiori: Hi Kasuga-san. You're here early.

K: Just wanted to get an early start so I can leave early.

Shiori: Oh? Have something special planned?

K: Something like that. I also owe you lunch today.

Shiori: That's right! I guess now's a day as any to collect on it.

K: By the way, dig up anything on the stuff I ask for?

Shiori: You didn't really give me much to go on. Just turned up some
articles on animals and all.

K: Well, it was a long shot. Let's finish up editing yesterday's footage.


[At the top of the 100 steps]

(Madoka stands around as if waiting for someone. She then notices a funny
object stuck in the dirt alcove. She comes closer for a better examination
and sees it is a small minature red hat with a note attached:

        You made it this far,
        But it is only the beginning
        of your journey.
        Ponder your thoughts here and
        stop by the bridge at 4.

M: <That Kyousuke, who does he think he is playing these silly childish
games with me?> (smiles) But I like it!

[At the baseball game]

Kurumi: (wearing baseball cap and overalls and waving flag) GO GIANTS!

Kazuya: Great seats! Lucky those guys bailed out at the last minute. Hey
sis. Get me some more takoyaki!

Akane: Get it yourself urchin! I'm not your prototypical, subservenent,
female slave!

Kazuya: (makes a face at her) Bleah!

Kurumi: Hey Manami! Will you lay off the writing? You're not even paying
attention to the game.

Manami: (quickly scribbles something in her journal book and then
looks up with her glasses resting on the tip of her nose) Did you
say something?

Kazuya: Yeah, can you get us some takoyaki snacks please?

Akane: Hey...(growls at him)

Manami: Sure. (gets up from her seat)

Kurumi: Hey look! He's just hit a long drive and it's headed this way!

Akane: I got it!

Kazuya: No I got it!

Kuurmi: No way! I got it.

(as the ball descends down towards the group and everyone is jumping for it,

the ball seems to do a loop-de-loop avoiding everyone's lunging grabs and
landing softly in Manami's open hand.

Manami: I think  I got it. (smiles)

[Inside the stretched limo]

#1: What's the latest status?

#2: I'm tracking it now. Good. The colonel has entered the embassy building.
But how did you know he would go in there?

#1: Just a hunch. Can you punch through the security jamming in the building?

#2: I think I can, but it'll take me some time. I need to hack into their
main computer. Since they're getting their communications through satellite,
all I have to do is create a secondary false carrier signal.

#1: Don't tell me about it. Just do what you have to do and let me know
when it's done.

[At the old bridge]

(as Madoka crosses the bridge, she is surprised to Komatsu and Hatta there!)


M: Hello. 

Hatta: Hi Ayukawa-san. Thanks for bailing us out of the jam!

M: How's your leg?

Hatta: It's getting better.

M: How come the two of you are here?

Komatsu: We were about to ask you the same question.

M: For me, I came because of a note.

Komatsu: Really? That's funny. We came because good 'ole Kyosuke told us
that a hot looking sexy, babe would be looking for us! But we've been waiting
and nothing yet.

Hatta: (nudges Komatsu at the side) (Ahem) I think he meant Ayukawa-san.

Komatsu: (points to Madoka) You mean he meant her? Man am I so sorry about
that! When I said we were waiting for the hot babe and she didn't come, I
didn't mean to forget about you! Of course you're a hot, sexy babe, but
you're not available right? What we were thinking of was a hot, sexy SINGLE
babe, and that's why we're dressed like this. We thought our good buddy
hitched us up with some twin combination and were sending it our way on
this beautiful Sunday afternoon near lovers park. So when we saw you
coming, that's why we didn't think of you as that babe he was talking about
and...

M: (interrupts) No need to explain fellas. I'm sure Kyousuke sent you two
out here for a purpose.

Komatsu: Man, he did, but what a waste of time. And I thought he was doing
us a favor by giving us this gift to give to this super babe. I had another
"gift" in mind to give her, if you catch my drift...

M: (ignores his last comment) So what was it that he gave you?


Komatsu: Some funny shape thingy. Hatta, you got it on you, don't you?

Hatta: Yeah, I do. Here you go.


(hands her an odd looking package)
      

Komatsu: See ya later. We'll gonna blow this joint.

Hatta: Hey look there. There's two good-looking chicks.

Komatsu: (licking his lips like a wolf) Oh goodie! Bet this trip wasn't
a waste afterall. Let's go get 'em!

(She opens the package to reveal a box of soba noodles!)

M: <That's odd. I wonder what it means>

(reads the note)

        These fools bear you no jest,
        For New Year noodles paved
        the bridge to our relationship,
        To go to the next step,
        Take a step backward
        to the old ABCB at 6.

(in the background, we see Hatta and Komatsu running for their lives
as the boyfriends of the girls they saw is chasing them!)

[Back to the streched limo]

#2: Hey! I think I got it!

#1: Let me hear.

#2: It's kind of statically, but that's the best I could do on short  notice.
I disabled  most of their jamming devices and even programmed it to imprint
a false log entry. You're  lucky they didn't use strong encryption to encode
their signal.

#1: Lay off the tech jibe okay? I'm trying to listen.

#2: But they're speaking Arabic.

#1: I know. But I understand. Just let me listen okay?

#2: Fine! I'll just tune into the game without you. (wears headphones)

[At the old ABCB]

(Madoka dashes in)

"We're just about to close maam!"

M: I'm sorry. I thought I might see someone here.
                                                                    
"Hey, wait a minute. You might be just the one. Here."

(gives her a box)

M: Is this for me?

"I don't care. I just want to get this off my hands. Some crazy guy in the
morning came in asking for some cooky favor to hand this some beautiful
lady who walks in at 6. I thought he was nuts, so I kept this under the
counter all day. But I guess that must be you."

M: Thank for you not forgetting.

"I gotta close up before the Master comes around."

(inside is a box of chocolates with this note:)

        From the old memories
        that we treasure forever
        Let us create new memories
        at shin ABCB at 8.


[Back to the streched limo]

#1: Hey wake up! (taps the snoozing #2)

#2: What? You finished?

#1: Yes. The colonel's already left. Get a beat on his position.

#2: Tracking....tracking....got it. (cranks up the limo)

#1: Follow him, but maintain a two block distance away. I don't him knowing
we're following him.

#2: Okay, but you still didn't tell me what went down in there.

#1: A case of shaken confidence. I put enough doubt in his mind for him to
take the bait and expose the item. Phase two will be to exchange the item
again. Phase three will be to cover our tracks.

#2: Alright! Now we're getting to the exciting part!

[Back at the TTV Stations]
(Kyosuke coming back from an assignment)

Shiori: Hey Kasuga-san! Taking off soon?

K: Yep! Got a big surprise for my girl tonight.

Shiori: Well, before you go, Tamura-san wanted to me convey her thanks in
helping to cover for the other teams.

K: Glad to help. Hope it makes up for my past indiscretions. At least
I didn't have to work with Mr Oh Johnny character.

Shiori: Speaking of him, I forgot to tell you this.

K: What?

Shiori: When I came in today, I saw him around your desk area. I wasn't
sure why he was in that area at all since he despises us "underlings".
It was peculiar. I thought you wanted to know.

K: My desk eh? (goes over and opens the drawers to look around)


K:<wonder what he was rummaging through it. But wait a minute! I did leave
that partially burnt piece of paper in here. (pulls open bottom drawer to
find it empty!) Oh no! He did take it! That jerk! I promised Madoka that
I wouldn't pursue wild hunches and goose-chases anymore, but this guy has
some audacity! Ah screw the docks! If he wants to go there, then that's his
business. I don't care! But...if there is something dangerous at the docks
and he somehow gets his nose in the wrong place and he gets hurt or even
killed, it will be on my hands! Argh!!! Damn my conscious sometimes. I'll
have to go there myself and find that bastard! Hopefully it would be quick
enough that I can flash back to the bar in time>

K: See ya! 


[Nightfall; At Tung Wah Cemetary]

(A man approaches a decrepit shack on a deserted street. Inside is a old man,
sitting in the lotus position, eyes closed, wearing plain garb. In front of
him is a wooden cup and some sticks inside)

"Old prophet. Do you remember me?"

"That mocking voice of yours...yes...I remember...the brash voice...the
disbeliever."

"It has been nearly two years now."

"Has it? My blindness does not allow me to feel the passages of time as you
do. Time for me is a matter of when and yet it has already happened."

"You speaking in riddles again, and you haven't gotten to my fortune yet.
You're too enigmatic for me."

"Is that why you are here?"

"Yes. Like in the old days. But I have returned for only a short while."

"You don't believe yet you come."

"I make it my business to know all possible outcomes. Whether I believe it or
not is another thing."

"You should have more faith in the occult. For it is what you cannot see that
appears more real than reality itself."

"That's just another way of saying that looks can be deceiving."

"Indeed they are,...especially for you."

"What do you know about me anyway?"

"I may be blind with my two eyes but I can see with my true eye. You came to
me many a time when you lost the way."

"Yes. I remember. At that time, I had no choice. I was trying to search for
myself."

"Who am I? Why am I here? Those are the eternal questions of man."

"I'm not asking for the answer to life. I want to know what you se in the
future for me."

"I do not see but merely interpret. Future as you say it has already happened
in another time."

"Then tell me what it is."

"If you wish."

(the frail, gaunt manstarts to shake the cup full of sticks. After a sequence
of shakes, 4 sticks pop out)

(He searches the ground for the fallen sticks and starts to feel them)

"Hmm...This says your fate is twisty and ephemeral, as expected. "

"That's not telling me anything. Give me details. I have but a short time left
here in this forsaken city."

"You are correct; your time in this plane of existence is short."

"So what's the omen?"

"You will die."

"Of course. Everyone dies. You will, I will. It's only a matter of when."

"But yours much sooner than you expected. It will happen when once you knew
before shall come to you again. From wenst you came, to there you'll return.
The Kamui is the key."

"You mean the dagger?"

"I cannot say no more. The meaning of my paradox is for you to decide."

"But there must be more..."

"Leave me know; I can feel the spirits stirring."

"One of these days, I'll will decipher your riddles."

"I hope you do. Farewell, traveler."

(As he leaves, another man enters, with a strange symbol on his forehead)
"Master! Was that man bothering you?"

"No Yakumo. He has yet to see his true self with his third eye."

[Down at Tokyo Bay]

(Inspector Jackson wandering along the dockside along the warehouses on
the waterfront towards a man staring out into the bay)

"So you got my message."

Jackson: Nice place to meet, don't you say? So what's the deal here?

"I hope to clear up any misunderstanding regarding the museum piece."

Jackson: Misunderstanding? NO, there's no misunderstanding. The piece in
question is an exact fake and you know it!

"I think you would be better served with a second opinion. You have it with
you?"

Jackson: Yes, I wouldn't leave it lying anyway except right next to my side
where I can keep an eye on it. (taps his left inner side)

"Why don't you lend it to me so my associates can examine it for you?"

Jackson: No way! I'm not letting this baby out of my site! Not unless I'm
involved. If you and I go see your associates, then that's a different story.

"That is not what I had in mind. But if you insist."

Jackson: Yes, I do. 

"Care for a cigarette before we go?"

Jackson: Yes, if I don't say so myself.

(opens up the gold plated cigarette case with the dragon insiginia in the
middle)

Jackson: (lights and puffs) Strange flavor this one.

"It's imported from Thailand."

Jackson: Makes a mighty good smoke I would say. But that doesn't change
things. I have a deadline this Monday and I need leads fast! I don't have
a lot of time left. 

"Oh, I think you have a lot of time."

Jackson: What makes you say ... (wobbles and then collapses to the ground)

"Sorry about that old friend, but you left me no choice! 

[At the Shin ABCB]

M: Hi Master! Welcome back.

Master: Thank you dear. I'm glad to see you. What brings you in here tonight?

M: A certain you know who.

Master: Oh, you mean the aspiring photojournalist.

M: Bingo. I thought I was late. Did he come in at all?

Master: Not today. He might be running a little late. With the traffic and
all.

M: You're probably right. It's like him to be late, isn't it?

Master: Don't mean indecisive?

M: (giggles) Yes and that too. He's been like that about his work and
personal life lately. But I hope he's made up his mind as to what his
true passion is.

[Back again to the docks]

#2: What did you do!? He's out cold!

#1: Just a minor sleeping agent he sniffed. He'll be awake in a few hours.
Just watch over him for me, will ya?

#2: Babysitting was not part of the job description!

#1: No time to get cute here. This is going to be a very delicate operation.
I need for you to tell me when he has left the room so I can make my move.
Do you understand?

#2: Sure thing. Just be careful.

#1: Heeyy! Don't worry little buddy. I'll watch myself. Just don't screw up.

[Time: 8:30]

Master: Here.

M: I didn't ask for capucchino.

Master: (nods) My treat.

M: He's not here yet. Where is he?

Master: Must be very bad traffic.

M: I'm getting worried now. I'll give a call to the Twins to see if they know
what is up.

[At the docks...]

K: Finished with the north end. Just the south end to cover. Haven't seen
any sign of Oh anywhere. (looks at his watch) Oh shoot! I'm late again! But
I only have this area to search and I'll be all done. Please be patient a
little longer Madoka.

"Hey you! What are you doing around here? You're not suppose to be here!"

K: (sees a roughneck glaring at him) Hey, I'm not looking for no trouble mr.!
Just looking to see if my associate came down around here or not.

"We don't welcome nobody, you understand. Read the sign. No trespassing."

K: Then I'll just be on my way and leave. Is that fine with you?

"No! I need to teach you a little lesson."

K: <Oh no! Running into the bad elements at this time of night.> (backs away)
Hey, we don't need to resort to violence here...

(guy runs toward him!)

(Kyosuke delivers a high sweeping kick right at the midsection of the thug,
stopping him cold. But he sends his sandals flying to the runway of the dock
in the process.)

K: Oops! My shoe.

(As Kyousuke turns around to fetch his shoe, thinking he has subdued the guy,
the guy knocks him over the head with a stick he was hiding)


[Inside the warehouse]

(#1 gets into the shipping building through a lone window after bypassing
some of the outside toughs guarding the place. He  crawls to a
junction. Manuevering around the crates area, he espies upon the guards and
a group of workers loading something. Through the dim office window, he sees
the main guy in there talking on the phone. He also sees a large manhole vent
which leads into the office. Taking a penlife, he skillfuly plys it open
quietly and sneaks within. The sounds of the vehicles moving the cargo masks
his sounds. "

#2: (transmitter) Hey, all you alright inside?

#1: (quietly and whispering) Shhh! I'm inside already. They moving some cargo
and the item tonight. Over and out.

(crawls just up to the office vent where there are some cardboard boxes
covering most of the vent, but revealing enough. He sees the jeweled dagger
in a special transparent casing lying on the table in wait to be transported.

#1: #2. Get ready for the phone diversion. I need him out of the office
for 3 minutes. Understand?

#2: Got it. The voice synthesizer is all ready to go.

#1: Good. Let's do it now!

#2: I'm dialing the number now...

(man rushes into the office)

"Boss, boss! Intruder! Intruder!"

Colonel: What? Spies? I knew something like this would happen! Quick! Sweep
the area for the rivals. Do it now!

"Yeah boss! "

Colonel: Shit! The place is probably already swarming with enemy agents now!
Must not let this fall into enemy hands! Can't transport it tonight!

(grabs the jeweled dagger and puts it inside his army fatigues jacket)

#1: <Damnit!> #2 mission abort. Repeat! Mission abort.

#2: What's wrong?

#1: Explain later. Over and out. 

[Back at the shin ABCB 9pm]

(Madoka is sitting at the bar, listening to the band play)

Master: He still hasn't made it yet?

M: He's over an hour late! If something was up, you thought he would have
at least called!

Master: Did you try the place where he worked?

M: I called there, but no one knew where he was. That Kyousuke!

Master: The night is still young. Be patient a bit longer.

[At the warehouse]

(the guards bring in an unconscious man)

"Here's the guy we found near the grounds. We think he knew about the night
delivery."

Colonel: Good work in subduing him. What's wrong with him?

"He sustained a sharp blow to the back of his head. He won't be waking up
for a long time. Should we kill him?"

Colonel: No. We haven't gotten any information from him yet. We'll tortue
him until he talks and then we kill him!"

"Good plan boss!"

Colonel: Tie him up and lock him up in the secret room. Let him rot there
until I feel ready to question him personally. In the meantime, hold off
the delivery until tomorrow ehn I can be sure everything is set to go again.

"Yes Boss!"

[Back at the limo]
#2: What happened?

#1: That guy....how ruined everything!

#2: Which guy?

#1: That daredevil photographer! I don't know how, but he must have gotten
a scoop about the shipment tonight. Except he was too sloppy and got caught.

#2: How could he have known about it?

#1: There must be a leak somewhere. But we have no time to find out who.

#2: Yeah! What are we going to do now? That militant fool's never going to
let the item out of his grasp now! What will we tell the Master?

#1: I don't know. I just don't know.

[2am at the ABCB]

Master: Madoka.

M: (leaning against her hand half-asleep murumuring) Is he here yet?

Master: No, I'm afraid he didn't show up at all. I am sure Kyosuke has a
good reason.

M: I'm sorry Master for putting through all this trouble opening way pass
closing time.

Master: No trouble; no trouble at all.

M: I thought it would be like those cliqued romantic scenes in which at the
last minute, he pops right through that door. But I guess it wasn't meant
to be. 

[Monday]

[At XYZ Studios]
(Hikaru is in early to pick up her remaining assessories to avoid seeing
the other cast members. She couldn't handle the emotional impact of facing
them herself)

"Hiyama-san?"

(Hikaru turns around and sees...)

H: Ni-san! What are you doing here?

#2: I know about you leaving for New York today.

H: Hayakawa must have told you.

#2: Uh huh. But before you leave, I need to give you something.

H: What?

#2: This. (hands her a black notebook sized bag)

H: Thank you. But what is it?

#2: It's a slightly used Apple Powerbook.

H:  A com-pu-ter? I can't take this! This is so expensive...

#2: Please take it. I was thinking of giving it to you anyway as a way to
thank you for helping me out on my project. And besides, we will all miss
you when you go back to New York. So I figure what better way we can keep
in contact with each other than through email?

H: Email?

#2: You know, electronic mail?

H: Oh that...now I do. All the lessons and tutorials you showed me about
that.

#2: Yeah and that would be a perfect opportunity to practice what I taught
you. Don't worry about the configuration and such. I communicated with my
online friend in New York and he gave me all the necessary info to get you
hooked up to a bbs.

H: I appreciate the thought #2,....I really do,... but this is too precious
a gift to waste on me, especially the way I am leaving. I feel like I'm
letting everyone down again.

#2: Don't worry about that. I'm sure you have your reasons. Master would
understand. I know him.

H: But I...

#2: I'm not taking no for an answer! (bows his head)

H: Ni-san, please don't go to extreme measures. I accept your gift
wholeheartily, as long as you do something for me.

#2: Gladly! What is it?

H; Can you say goodbye to Haroken-san for me? I'm sure you're the right
person for that.

#2: I will. Good luck on your trip!

H: Duomo. Sayonara! Maybe we will meet again someday.

[In Hong Kong]

(in his hotel room)

(Ryusei Haroken is packing his things getting ready to leave)

(he receives a phone call)

R: Hello?

"Hi, it's me."

R: Ah, #1. I was just on my way to the airport. What is it?

#1: I don't know how to put it, but yesterday's operation was a failure.

R: In what way?

#1: In every possible way. Everything was going along as planned. However,
despite all contingencies, there was one unknown factor we did not account
for.

R: Well, what happened?

#1: Kasuga Kyousuke somehow stumbled upon the operations and now is being
held by Goro's men for interrogation. The swap was not successful.

R: Him. (lets out a frustrated sigh) Somehow, I sensed he would somehow
get in the middle of my plans eventually.

#1: And some more bad news.

R: There's more?

#1: Yes. Your leading star, Hikaru Hiyama has just quit the play and is
leaving for New York today.

R: What? What in the world is happening? What could have caused this?

#1: I am really not sure. I haven't been around the studio much to be on top
of these personnell matters. All I know is what I told you.

R: Alright then. That would be all. I need some time to think about what
our next move will be.

(hangs up the phone)

R: Curses of curses. First, I lose the jewel and now the sacrificed queen!

[Back to XYZ Studios]
"Hi #2!"

#2: Oh, hi Manami-san.

Manami: Hey, you don't sound so good today. Is there something wrong?

#2: No, no nothing's wrong. Yep, nothing is wrong at all.

Manami: You're not a very good liar, are you?

#2: What?

Manami: I think I know why.

#2: You do?

Manami: Yes. It's because you and #1 couldn't come to the game with us. Is
that right?

#2: Oh, yeah, I'm sorry about copping out yesterday. But a really urgent
matter popped up. How was the game?

Manami: It was fun! Giants won 5 to 4. And I think I may have something that
might cheer you up.

#2: And what could that be?

Manami: Here. (pitches him something)

#2: (catches it) Wow, a baseball.

Manami: No, homerun ball. (smiles at him and leaves for the coffeeroom)

#2: Wow, ain't she sweet? I was really feeling down, but a baseball, wow!
This is great! I guess this Tanbata day won't be a total wash after all!

[Back at Hikaru's apartment]

(Hikaru is in her room packing)

"Hi! Need a hand?"

H: Hi Shuri! Thanks! That's ok. Look. I'm really sorry for leaving on such
short notice.

Shuri: No need to explain. I understand. Things come up. That's life. If it
were so predictable, then it would be pretty boring, wouldn't it?

H: Yeah, I guess so. Are you sure you can handle the rent by yourself?

Shuri: I'm sure. Don't worry. I was living in this apartment by myself before
you came. And besides. I might be in your neck of the woods soon. I'm going
to get my visa in two weeks!

H: That's fantastic. But what about your opportunity here?

Shuri: It's ok, but being a alternate backup just doesn't have the same
appeal. They won't miss a best without me. And besides. My releatives are
driving me crazy trying to get me to get married. But I am not ready for
such a commitment at all. Not at this time. But they've been cranking up the
pressure on me since I touched foot here. Can't really perform up to my
potential with that type of distraction around.

H: I know what you mean. But I feel guilty letting down the people I care
for.

Shuri: Now's not the time to wallow in your sorrow. I think this calls for
some Hagendaas, preferable the chocolate kind. You look like you need some
indulgence.

H: I don't know. I have to watch your figure.

Shuri: What are you worried about? (drags her by the arm) You will be
practically starving from the airplane food!

[At XYZ Studios]

(in the hallway)

(Manami is carrying some papers)

(Madoka is walking the other way)

Manami: Hi Ayukawa-san!

Madoka: Hi Manami.

Manami: You look kind of depressed. I wonder is it contagious.

Madoka: Oh, it's Kyousuke. I'm mad at him!

Manami: That's oniichan for you. But what did he do this time?

Madoka: He stood me up after he led me along. That's the worst thing you
can do to a woman!

Manami: Boy, that is really bad. He's pretty unreliable. Did he come back
to the house yesterday?

Madoka: No. I thought he would be staying at your place.

Manami: No, he didn't come over at all.

Madoka: That's strange. He might have stayed over at Komatsu and Hatta.
I'll give them a call later.

[Inside the dark room]

K: (coming to) <Where am I? I can't see anything! Am I blind? No, this must
be the darkness. I see a few faint traces of light bleeding from the door. And
oww my head...>

(tries to get up but realizes he is tied)

K: What happened last night? One moment I sticking my nose into a situation
where I shouldn't even be involved in and now I am here. Curse my rotten
luck! And what about Madoka? Jesus, I don't even know what time it is.
What am I going to do?

(hangs in head in despair for a while before realizing)

K: Baka! I'm so stupid! I have the Power! I can just teleport out of here.
Ok. Here goes. Somewhere safe. 1 2 3!

(a slight flash of light that fizzles out)

K: Gee I must be really out of it. Gotta try again. Ok. Concentrate and focus
Kyousuke. Channel your energy. 1...2....3!

(again a slight flash but nothing happens)

K: Oh damn! I must have lost too much energy. None of my powers work. What
am I going to do?

[Back to the XYZ Studios]

(Madoka enters the room in a worried state)

Manami: Any luck?

M: No, and I getting really scared now. I called around to all of our friends
but none of them has heard from him since last night.

Manami: That's very strange, even for oniichan.

M: The only place I didn't check is his workplace where he was last seen.
I'm going over there right now to get to the bottom of things.

Manami: Don't worry Madoka-san. If someone is looking for you I'll cover for
you.

M: Thank you Manami.

Manami: Good Luck!

(Hayakawa enters the room)

Hayakawa: Ah Madoka! Just the person I wanted to see.

M: I'm sorry Mitsuru but I have  no time right now. Maybe later.

Hayakawa: But...

(rushes out and slams door on him)

Hayakawa: Must be losing my charm. That's the second time in two days
a lady has hung up on me!

[At the redlight district]

#1 barges into the office.

#1: I heard about your little trouble last night.

"That's none of your business!"

#1: Everything that goes down is our business. Don't you forget it.

"That may be so, but I'm handling things, not you."

#1: My master is coming back later today and wishes an audience with you.

"Not interested."

#1: I wouldn't be too hasty to refuse. Should Shimazaki know of your
indiscretion...

"Listen here. I don't take to threats!"

#1: Calm yourself. My master and your master only wishes the same thing.
The safe transport to the item to seal the deal. I hope you are not thinking
of trying to jeopardize that are you?

"No one questions my loyalty to my master!"

#1: Good then. We will meet you here at 6:30. Good Day!

[At the police station]

"Saeko! Come in quickly!"

"What is it Daddy?"

"I told you to call me Chief!"

"Sorry daddy, I mean chief. But no one's around."

"That's not the point."

"Fine. What did you call me in here anyway for?"

"Where the hell is Jackson?!"

"How should I know? He didn't come in at all today. And he didn't call in
at all."

"Oh shit!"

"What's wrong?"

"The curator of the museum just called me! He was asking about whether we
made any progress on the fake artifact piece."

"Fake piece?"

"Yes, the one I sent you with Jackson to guard during the unveiling."

"Oh that. Nothing went down that night."

"Or so you think. The curator was explaining to me how he gave the alleged
fake piece to our Inspector Jackson for examination and that he was expecting
it back today in time for the exhibit. "

"That sneaky devil!"

"A rat is more like it. I'm going to have his badge for this! Put out an
apb for Jackson!"

"But what about the press conference?"

"That can wait once we find him and the piece."


[At TTV Station]

(Madoka crashes into the office)

M: Hello Shiori! There you are!

Shiori: Hi there. What's the matter?

M: Have you seen Kyousuke today?

Shiori: No, not at all. In fact, I'm afraid that he just registered his last
strike with Tamura-san, our boss. He was suppose to cover something in the
morning but didn't show up again.

M: This is important so let me ask you carefully. When was the last time
you saw Kyousuke?

Shiori: Well, that's easy. It was yesterday. He said he was leaving to see
you presumably. But he was distracted by something.

M: What was it?

Shiori: It was something I mentioned to him. I told him that I thought it
was funny that I saw Johnny Oh around his desk area when I came in. He then
went over to his desk and open the drawers. After that, he rushed out the
door. Is there something wrong with Kyousuke?

M: I'm not sure, but I'm afraid he might be missing. I called everyone we
know and they haven't heard from him at all. I fear the worst. We need to
see this Johnny Oh person. Where is he?

Shiori: He's out on the beat waiting to cover the news conference at 5.

M: Then that's where I go next.

Shiori: Let me come with you. Things might get messy there.

[At the airport]

H: Thanks for coming with me.

Shuri: Hey, what are friends for. Just promise you'll call me when you get
back.

H: I will.

Shuri: You better hurry to the gate. You're flight's at 6. You need time to
board and put away your stuff and get settled in.

H: I will, I will. Thanks again. (gives her a quick hug)

Shuri: Well good luck then and see ya.

H: Bye bye!


(meanwhile, out on the airstrip where a private is unloading)

(A limosine waits outside)

(Ryusei steps down and meets #1 at the bottom)

R: Am I too late?

#1: No, you're just in time. She flying in that plane.
(points to JAL airliner)

(We see the two of them standing together, amid the dusk lit sky)

(Hikaru is inside the plane already and looking out of her window seat)

H: <Here I am again, leaving my beloved homeland. I bless everyone I hold
dear to me, but I bless Haroken Ryusei for giving me this opportunity. I'm
sorry I have to leave under these circumstances.>

(As Ryusei watches the plane fly off into the big sky yonder, he turns away
and just utters to #1)

R: Let us go now.


[At the Police Station]

Johnny Oh: That's a wrap! Just my luck! Chief Nogami had to cancel today's
press conference. What an idiot! 

Shiori: There he is!

Johnny Oh: Oh, it's the intern. What do you want? And who is this person?

M: I am Ayukawa Madoka, friend of Kasuga Kyousuke. I want to ask you whether
you know of his whereabouts or not.

Johnny Oh: That bumbling idiot? I wouldn't waste my thoughts on him.

M: Your relationship with him is not my concern but it is urgent I know
where he is.

Johnny Oh: Listen lady. I don't know and I don't care. So shove off!

Shiori: Now wait just a moment here. You can be mean to the people of the
department but being rude to a total stranger is totally uncalled for! Now
I saw you yesterday around his desk. So I ask you. Did you go through his
desk or take something of his?

Johnny Oh: Hey, I'm not obligated to help anyone.

M: (suddenly grabs a hold of his arm and wrings it behind his back) Not
listen buddy, I've been patient up till now, but you seem to need a little
attitude adjustment.

Johnny Oh: Hey! You can't do this to me! I'm the press! Help! Help! Police!

(police officers ignore him)

M: So,...it seems that even the police hates your guts. So I repeat again.
Do you know anything at all?

(wrings his arm even harder)

Johnny Oh: Oww, oww!! Ok ok! I'll talk. Yeah, I took something from his desk.

Shiori: So you did go through his desk!

Johnny Oh: Yeah I did. Figured the kid had something hot that the police
wanted, since they were chasing him. Grabbed this and studied it for a while
but decided it was just the kid's baka clues he grabbed. A burnt piece of
paper. What a waste!

Madoka: Where is it?

Johnny Oh: What?

Madoka: The thing you took from his desk. I want it.

Johnny Oh: Sure, you can have it. Worthless piece of junk.

Madoka: (snatches it from him) Thank you. Now scram! (Oh Johnny runs off)

(she reads it:)

note says:

	jeweled artifa.. .... ............
	//////////////////////////////// 
	///////////////////////////////  
	/////////////////////////////   

	////////////////.. the docks.   
	////////////////Chameleon.
	////////////////                


[Back to the dark room]

(Kyosuke is having a flashback dream hallucination)

(Bombs bursting everywhere outside)

(Door opens to reveal Madoka dressed up as a wicked major outfit)

K: Madoka! I knew you would come for me. Please help me.

"What did you call me? You are the enemy! I've been sent to interrogate you."

K: No Madoka, you can't be one of them. You can't.

"Tell me boy, does it make your blood curdle to think that the blood of the
people you photographed is on your hands?

K: (shakes his head) NO, NO IT'S NOT!

"How could you just stand there and snap pictures while the victims you
photographed were being blown or shot in the back?"

K: I,...I...

M: Where is your humanity? Or has the coldness of your heart allow you to
just do your job and watch other die.


K: NO! I DO CARE! 

M: Do you? Do you only care about how rosy you would look? You became famous
once you got back from Bosnia. But at whose expense? Whose blood?

K: Please! Stop torturing me. You don't understand...

M: No, it's you who don't understand! You are an arrogant fool who doesn't
realize what you're sacrificing your soul for. To put aside your love for
others for your ambitions. To win a prize. To get ahead. That is the way
it works, isn't it?

K: No, no. Please stop this.

M: I'm not through with you yet. Now I will make you feel real pain.

(*SLAP!*)

Kyosuke wakes up in a cold sweat in the dark room.

K: What have I done?

[At the whorehouse]

(#1 and Ryusei enters the room)

R: Greeting Colonel Gaki-san. I believed we have not met.

"Not we have not."

R: Let's dispense with the words. I am here to inspect the artifact. I need
to make sure it is not tampered with before it reaches your master.

"I'm afraid that's out of the question. I will not let it leave my site."

R: I appreciate your concerns, but I have no intention of taking it with me.
I merely wish to see it. I am an expert in recognizing rare antiquity,
especially when it comes to grade and condition. Just a precaution on my
part. I'm sure you would want to do the same if you were in my shoes. If you
wish, you may watch me.

(sits down and opens his hands wide)

(The colonel thinks about it a while and finally caves in. He places the
box straight in the center of the table. Ryusei opens it up and briefly
glances at it as the light bounces and flashes off the precious jewels. There
is a brief flash but everything returns to normal.)

R: (closes the cannister) There. 

"That's it?"

R: Yes, that's it. There a certain mark on it that validates its
authenticity. Now my heart is at ease. Thank you for indulging an eccentric
man. Good Day.

(both men leave)


[Down at the docks]

(Madoka is frantically looking around the docks area)

M: (muttering to herself) Come on Kyousuke, where are you? Please be here.

(and then see sess a shoe over by the edge of the walkway near the water)

(She walks over and pics it up and realizes it is Kyosuke right shoe)

M: (she clutches it to her bosom) Kyosuke, you were here. This is the sandals
I bought for you on your birthday. But where are you now?

(a small disturbance in the water creates circular water ripplets)

M: (looks over the edge into the water) Oh my God NO!

[Back at the police station]

(A police officer storms in)

"Chief! Some anonymous caller gave some tip that Inspector Jackson is down
in the south end of the docks area. What should we do?"

Chief: Send a squad car to check it out. I'm really to go on any lead at this
point.


[Back to the secret room]

(Kyosuke hears steps inside the dark room he is in)

K: (weak and tired from lack of food and water) Who's there?

"I'm a friend of your friend."

K: I can't see you. Who are you?

"You don't need to know who I am, but I know who you are."

(undos the rope)

"There. As for your strenth, this should be enough energy for you to escape."

(The mystery man's hands touch Kyousuke and there is a brief glow)

K: Wow, that really lifted me. Hey thanks, whoever you are. Hello?

(But Kyousuke is by himself again, alone in the room)

[Inside the warehouse]

(A man drags a body in by the side of the crates.)

"This should be safe enough for you. Well, my friend, I think it's time you
wake up from your long slumber now."


[Back to the docks]

"Boss, you're here."

Colonel: Yes. Is the boat ready?

"Yes. It is."

Colonel: Hold it for me. I'm going to pay our friend a little visit.

"You're going to tortue him?"

Colonel: (evil laugh) No time for that now. I'll just kill him quick, a shot
through the head.

(enters the warehouse and then makes his way to the secret room)

(opens it up and flips a light)

(He sees an empty chair and the ropes)

Colonel: Where is he?

(*PUSH*)

(The Colonel is pushed inside and the metal door closes behind him)

Colonel: What the fuck! Open this door!

(shoots at the door)

(at the other side of the warehouse)

Jackson: (shakes his head) Woah! That was a trip. I must have been out for a
while! I'm going to get him for this.

(hears the gunshots from the Colonel shooting at the metal door)

Jackson: (draws his gun and stands up) Oh shit. In a middle of a firefight.
Just what I need!

(goes toward the sound of the shots and is surprised to see several men
tied up near the entranceway)

Jackson: What the hell is going on?

(police car sirens blaring in the background!)

(outside)

"I think it's best we made our exit now."

R: I think so too, #1.

#1: Did you take care of things with our intruder?

R: Yes, everything has been undone now. A debt has been paid.

#1: It must have been real difficult seeing her leave.

R: Yes it is. Ironic on this day where the hunter and the goddess get to meet
for that one day in the whole year. 

#1: Why did you not give in to these temptations?

R: Because...even the lust for power is more pervasive than love.
Let us leave now.

(leaves in the boat where the colonel was suppose to go in)


[Back to the warehouse]

(several policeman led by Saeko Nogami storm into the warehouse)

Saeko: (points her gun at Jackson's head) There you are buster! Hold it!

Jackson: (drops his gun and raises his hands) Hey, I'm not the bad guy here.

Saeko: Listen, you're in a whole heap of trouble now! Wait till I throw
you to the lions.

Jackson: Well you better watch out for our madman behind that door. He's armed
and dangerous.

Saeko: (signals the men around to get ready)

Colonel: (shoots at the lock of the door) There!

(storms out and kicks door down)

(As he goes out, 6 guns flail and point to his head)

Saeko: Drop it buster.

Colonel: Shit!

Saeko: Cuff 'em.

Jackson: Can I go now?

Saeko: Not until you explain what you were doing here?

Jackson: Well, isn't it obvious?

"Excuse me Nogami-san! There seems to be a loot of jewelry in here!"

Saeko: What?

Jackson: See, what did I tell you?


[Meanwhile, on the other side of the docks]

(Madoka looks mournfully across into the Bay and up into the sky of stars)

(She then looks sadly upon the sandal which she retrieved, as tears fall
upon it)

M: Why Kyousuke? Why did you have to leave me? Did I put too much pressure
on you to make a choice? Was it because of me? I'm sorry. I'm so sorry
for everything. I love you. You are and always will be the only man I love.
But I cannot bear to live a life without you in it. I will soon join you
my love.

(Madoka prepares to jump into the bay!)

(At that moment, Kyousuke flashes in)

K: <Whew! I'm glad I made it out of there alive. No more life-threatening
stuff for me.  Hey, who is that?> Wait! Don't jump!

(*S -o- P -o- L -o- A -o- S -o- H!*)

(Kyousuke jumps in next to save the person!)

(A few moments later, he comes up to the surface with Madoka as she coughs
up water)

M: (eyes still closed) Why did you have to save me? Just let me go and die
in peace.

K: Madoka? Is that you?

M: (opens her eyes) Kyousuke? Is that really your face I see? Am I seeing
an illusion?

K: No, it is me Madoka. What were you doing, trying to drown yourself?

M: I thought you were...and your shoe I found....Oh never mind. (KISSES HIM)
I'm glad you're here. But by the lousy way you're swimming,
I might still drown.

K: Sorry about that. You know I've been a mediocre swimmer. How about this
instead?

(He slowly levitates both of them a few inches off the water)

M: That's better.

K: Listen Madoka. I know it's going sound hard to believe and it will take
some time to explain what I was doing inside the dock warehouse and...

M: (puts her finger up to his mouth to silence it) Just save it. I don't
care at all. And I believe you. (gives him a long kiss)

K: Woah! What was that for?

M: For being just you. (Gives him a hug) Ouch!

K: What did I do now?

M: Something in your pocket poked my chest, you naughty boy!

K: Really? I wonder what it could be.

(fiddles around in his shirt pocket and pulls out their RUBY engagement ring)

K: Wow! How did that get there?

M: Never mind. I don't want to know. Just put it on my hand, you big lug.

K: <And as I slipped the fiery red, ruby ring onto her slender, delicate
finger, I will always remember that night as the second chance for our
relationship that was almost torn apart by the turmoil that swept into
our lives during those tumultuous few months following my return from
Bosnia. Our second special Tanabata>

[At Yakushima Island]

(Ryusei steps out of the boat)

R: Greetings Goro-san.

Goro: You? I did not expect to see you here.

R: As did I. But there were some complications, so I thought it would be
safer if I delivered the item to you in person. (takes a silver cylinder
case and displays the jeweled dagger!)

Goro: Ahh...very exquiste. Just part of my growing collection.

R: So I presume this validates our working arrangment?

Goro: It does, for now. 

[The Next Day]

[At the station]

Natsumi: Congratulations boy!

Jackson: Thanks! I couldn't have done it without everyone's help.

"Look! The Chief is on TV!"

(turning on the tube)

Chief Nogami: There are many parties to thank, but most especially the
investigative undercover work done by Chief Inspector "Benji" Jackson. He
singlehandedly infiltrated the gang's headquarters and caught the
perpetrators. 

Natsumi: That's way cool. Bet you showed up Saeko-san.

Jackson: Nah, I wouldn't want to rub salt in the wounds. She is my
superior after all. I'm just glad things worked out after all. 
<Especially with the "real" dagger artifact being returned to the museum>

[At TTV Studios]

Shiori: Hi Kasuga-san! Am I glad to see you! You're ok.

K: Yes. I'm sorry if I gave you guys a little scare.

Shiori: That's ok. I knew you were ok all along. Did you hear the news?

K: What news?

Shiori: The police department has dropped all charges against JADE! She was
just released. They have in custody what they believe the real culprits in
this case. What a major turnaround.

K: I'll say. Is Tamura-san in?

Shiori: Yes, but I wouldn't go in there if I was you.

K: No I have to. There's something I should have done a long time ago.

(Kasuga enters as Tamura-san is talking on the phone)

"...and I talk to you later, okay? Bye."

K: Gomen Tamura-san for intruding, but there something I must do.

(puts some pieces of paper)

Tamura: What's this?

K: My resignation. I realize it was long overdue, due to my sloppy
performance. I didn't realize until yesterday that I was not ready for this
job yet. So I'm saving you the trouble of firing me.

Tamura: But Mr Kasuga...

K: Please. There's more. I realize I didn't perform up to my end of the
bargin when you first employed me, so I decided I needed to do something
to make it up to you. Along with my resignation letter is a transcript of 
my log while I was in Bosnia. I know I was suppose to work on preparing a
serious journal account of my experience there, but I believe I am
unworthy nor deserving of that honor.   I want someone more worthy and
courageous to narrate these; possibly a war veteran. They would trully know
the meaning of terrors of war. It was a pleasure to work for you. I hope this
helps the station ratings. Gomen and Sayonara!

(exits out)

[Later that week at the penthouse]

(Taking a look at the chesspiece, we see a black rook piece turned on its
side)

(Nagasi is lying in bed wearing a sexy, black lingerie)

(Ryusei is out by the window, staring out at the dark sky and full moon)

(Nagasi seductively slinkers to the front of the bed)

Nagasi: What's wrong withyou now Ryu? You haven't been in my bed in over a
month.

(Ryusei still stands there, staring silently ahead)

Nagasi: (coyly) You're still thinking of her?

R: (seems flustered for a moment at the comment, but quickly straightens up)
You said something.

Nagasi: (As she turns her head back and forth, she slyly remarks) You know who
I am talking about. That dancer of girl you recruited. Hiyama Hikaru was her
name, wasn't it? You're still disappointed that she left so suddenly. Why so?
She was just your normal dancer with average talent. No need to fret with her
leaving. Or is there something more between you two that I should know about?

R: I prefer not to talk about it. She is gone now. Nothing can change that
fact. Now I'm trying to scramble for a replacement.

Nagasi: Business, business. Always thinking of business. You got to loosen up.
You must have had a long, stressful trip. (tiptoes in back of him) Let me
massage those big, hunky shoulders for you.

(*SQUISH*)

(presses her chest against his back as she applies some pressure)

Nagasi: Real tense you are. You need more than a massage. Come. (grabs his
hand to lead him to the bed) I want you tonight!

R: Not tonight...I'm not in the mood.

Nagasi: You better or else I'll tell uncle that you're neglecting his niece.
He won't be real happy about that. You've been putting it off way too long.
Tonight is my turn to collect. <And celebrate! No more Hiyama to steal my
baby!>

----------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Hikaru back in New York, dance studio class, Actors Studio College]

Dance Instructor: So you finally decided to come back to us?

H: Yes sensei. I didn't expect to stay that long. It's just that...

Dance Instructor: No need to explain. I understand. It's been nearly 4 years
since you were back in your home country. You'd probably had a lot of
catching up to do with all your friends and family. I just hope you're not
too rusty on your dance steps.

H: You don't have to worry about that. I put in a lot of work during my stay.

Dance Instructor: You did? I thought you told me you didn't get that part.

H: I didn't. I mean, not exactly. It's a long story. I tell you about it
some time later. (*performs some twirls*)

Dance Instructor: Wow. You made some definite improvement since the last time
we've trained.

H: (*places her index finger against her temple*)

Dance Instructor: What's wrong?

H: I feel a little weak. Must be from the jet lag. Can I take a timeout?

Dance Instructor: Go right ahead. I can tell that the new you will be
going places.

I went in the backroom where my stuff was. I wasn't weak from fatigue. I
missed my old and new friends. I plucked out the notebook that Ni-san had
gotten for me at a good deal and hooked it to the telephone jack. I logged
onto the FAME BBS, my local internet provider which was also set up by Ni-san.

After wading through menus and setup stuff, I finally reached the email area.
I entered Madoka's email address.

Hi Madoka,

        Just wanted you to know that I got back to the Big Apple in
        one piece. I already miss everyone back there. Give my love to everyone
        for me. Have to go and pursue my dancing dream. Ja Ne!

                                        Your "forever" friend,
                                                Hikaru.

[Beginning of December, XYZ Studios]
Nagasi: You're in your typical grinch-like mood.

R: One is never happy when their production loses money.

Nagasi: Oh come on darling! Things will come around. You just have to give
it more time.

R: Time is a commodity I don't have. I'm beginning to think I went into the
wrong venture. I want you to cancel all production money for the plays we
have stakes in New York.

Nagasi: But Ryusei! You can't be such a Scrooge! Especially so near
Christmas!  You're going to put all those people out of work. Especially my
friend over there.

R: (*raises hand*) I have no time to argue with you over this. My word is
final. The bottom line is money, plain and simple. I'm going to complete divest
myself out of play production and pursue another front. Now go!

Nagasi: Oh, you cold hearted fool! (storms out of office)

R: (pulls out paper from the desk) So this is what drove you out of Tokyo,
Hiyami-san. You leaving was the beginning of my troubles for my play empire.
I'll find out who did this to you!

(Signed at the bottom of the note are just 2 letters scribbled in scarlet:

                                                        An


//Author's Note
This is the end of the book b series of my Hard Kor saga. I hope you enjoyed
the conclusion of this series. What naturally follows is the events in
shin kor ii. If you want to find out more background to this series, then I
suggest you take a look at my prelude series which focuses on the younger days
when they were all younger and innocent. Again, thanks to all the loyal readers
out there who helped to make this series a success. I'll take a long deserved
vacation before I start on Book C. Till then Happy KORing!

SuperKOR Master.

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