From: Robert Kwong X-Original-Date: Sat, 12 Feb 2005 22:55:41 +0000 (UTC) Subject: [KOR][FanFic] HARD| Kurumi: Yahoo! We're here! As you can see, most of the clan decided to tag along for the trip. Except for Manami, who decided to accept a special study-program abroad in the western part of America. As for Akane and Kazuya, they were looking after my cat Jingoro back home. Master: (wearing a ABCB T-shirt) New York City. World Class town to visit. I'm glad to be back. Is everyone here? Kyosuke: Madoka's here with me. Where's ojiichan and obaachan? Madoka: They're over there by the counter. Kyosuke: Gya! What is he doing snapping pictures inside the airport terminal! We haven't even gotten to the landmark attractions yet! (walks up to him) Ojiichan! What are you doing? We're waiting for you! Ojiichan: Watch who you're talking to, Kyosuke! Be nice to your elders. Or I'll cause a scene! (camera starts to float from his hands!) Kyosuke: Okay, okay! Gomen. But as an expert photographer, I'm telling you this is not the place to take vacation shots. Ojiichan: Oh, but I'm enjoying the sights. See. (points to the group of airline stewardesses) Kawaii! Kyosuke: I should have known! But we have no time for this. We have to get our bags and get going. (as they are leaving, another group from another flight comes in) Shijama Zumi: Sugoi! We've finally made it! Taku Morisaki: New York seems very friendly towards the foreigners. Muroke: Why do you say that? Taku: Look at all the Japanese translations everywhere. Helpful for us Japanese tourists. Rikkako Muto: Thank you again Koji-san for the complimentary tickets. Muroke: You're quite welcome. It is my pleasure to bring you all along. Taku: It reminds of the time we were in Hawaii on a field trip and Rikky got me to lend her some money and... Rikkako Don't you dare bring that up again bathtub boy! Or have you forgotten already? Shijama: (whispers to Muroke) Squabbling like a couple. Oh how sweet it must be to be in love. Muroke: I know what you mean. Too bad Manami couldn't be here. [At Trump Towers] Nagasi: Wowee! A 5-star hotel this time! What a view Ryu baby! Gorgeous! Time Square. That's where the action is happenin'. All those glittering neon. Ooooh! (shivers) Ryusei: That's 'Times Square'. And don't get too exuberant. Don't forget. I still consider this a business trip. Nagasi: Business for you, but pleasure for me! I'm gonna experience the joy of shopping. Ooh! Aah! I get an orgasm thinking about it! I'm off! Ciao baby! Ryusei: This city does strange things to people. But I have no time for this foolishness. (places the mini-statuette of the Buddha on the dresser counter.) Ryusei: You're a foolish idealist #1. Only fools believe in fate. I make my own future. [Greenwich Village apartment] There was an eerie silence as I entered my pad. No meowing sounds of JG, my former cat. No music from my CD player, broken from that incident. Just me, alone by myself, with the rumbling traffic noises outside. No drop-ins from Shuri, who use to live across from me. Even Officer Clancy who came over to just talk was being transferred out. Yes, this year, 1995 was shaping up to be the year of silence for me. So ironic, for in the play itself, I don't say any lines at all. It was purely dance for me; the truest expression of the human form. (checking her messages) "Hello baby! It's Big B. You doing anything tonite? Let me know. Ciao!" That was Bruno, my Italian steady. Things have been progressing very nicely between us the past five months since the beginning of the year. So much so that I've turned to him exclusively for my sexual needs. Hikaru: Not tonight Bruno. (giggles) Save your "salami" for some other night. I opened up my bag and pulled out my Powerbook notebook computer and hooked it up to my phone line. That was my outlet now for communication. 'Logging In................' 'Connected +++++ ">>>Welcome to the FAME BBS Bulletin Board!<<<" Select a choice: 1. Display messages: (1-10) 2. Read message 3. Post message 4. Reply message 5. More Options >1 Sender Date Title :John Burns 2 May Could you use $10,000? R :"Stallion" 7 May wanna go out tonite? :CityLife 12 May Highlights: Jazz Club Festival : 13 May WORK AT HOME FULL AND PART TIME!!!! R :A. Madoka 15 May Away on a trip... ^Stopped > As you can see, I was becoming more of an online junkie. This was mostly the fault of #2, who introduced me to the wonders of online communication through something called "e-mail". I still didn't quite understand how it worked, but as long as I tap a few keystrokes and click a few mouse buttons, I can pass messages back and forth anywhere around the world. But no new messages from Madoka. After all, she and Sempai are on a vacation. They probably are in an exotic location like Okinawa for 2 weeks to celebrate their wedding. I could understand that. You might ask why I didn't attend their wedding. Good question. In my gift to Madoka, I enclosed a note, wishing them well on their wedding, but telling them that I cannot make it due to my dance commitments. Of course, that was only part of the reason. The other? The emotional shock of seeing Kyosuke there, handsome and glittering as the bridegroom would be too much for me. Yes, I know I've made my peace with them already and have willingly given up Kyosuke, but it would be too much to ask of me to break my heart again. Once was enough. It was then I heard a knock on my door. [Hotel Hilton Marquis Lobby] (Muroke is leaning against one of the wall pillars) (*sigh*) "What a day." It has been quite an adventure. To fly out thousands of miles away from home to a place as worldly and cosmopolitan as New York is quite an experience. We were, as to be expected, treated to a jarring taxi ride through the city by one of the locals sporting a heavy accent of some sort. Lucky for us that he was able to decipher our own poor English. Then, trying to decipher the strange arrangement and elevator system in this hotel. We were hunting for the check-in center on the ground floor, only to discover that it was located on the seventh floor! A strange idiosyncrasy of this establishment. The check-in proceeded as expected; our rooms were located on the 25th floor. But here is where we got lost. As we boarded the elevator and looked for the 25th floor button, we couldn't find it! The highest number was 23. We thought the hotel had ripped us off! So we went back to the 7th floor and manage to find a hotel worker who we asked for help. He told us that for the higher floors, we had to go around the other side of elevators which would take us there. So we did that and this time, it worked! But we weren't all too happy about wasting time, going about to and fro. We were already tired from spending 20 something odd hours on the plane and the 40 minute taxi cab ride. I hope that all American hotels aren't like this! We were happy to finally be able to find our rooms without any problems. I was rooming up with Shijama, while Taku was with Muto. But first thing was first. I just placed my bags in the corner and jumped into bed. Shijama was busy in the bathroom; he didn't quite take to the airplane food. I was glad to get my first few moments of rest. Some time passed, I'm not sure how much since I was napping, when the phone rang. It was #1. "#2, is that you?" "Yeah, in the flesh. What do you want?" "Just checking up to make sure you made it in, little buddy. We got things to discuss. Meet me downstairs in the lobby area in 10 minutes." "But I..." (*hangup*) And so I am here now, waiting for them to come, to find out what this trip was all about. It was a pleasure trip for my friends, but certainly not for me. #1 had something else in mind; that I knew. [Hotel Room] (Kurumi is watching TV) (Suddenly, we see two bright flashes of light) Kurumi: O-jii-chan! Stop teleporting in and out like that! Ojiichan: You shouldn't be wasting your time watching TV! Kurumi: But they have cable! This is so cool! That have a channel with wrestling on all the time! Now I can experience body slams and clothe-lines the whole day! Ojiichan: You obviously don't know how to tourist. Kurumi: To tourist? That doesn't sound right. Ojiichan: Tourist-ing is an art. We have enough practice, traveling to many different places, exotic and nice. We are the experts in this area! Isn't that right obaachan? Obaasan: Oi, oi! Kurumi: Who wants to go out and see a bunch of old buildings and stuff? Obaasan: Oi? Ojiichan: Ah, so she does not understand the true meaning. To tourist is to appreciate what the olden people built before. A way to connect to the past. And this New York place has so much history. Why, this tour-book lists many sites we can start with. Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, Rockefeller Center, World Trade Center, Guggenheim, MET, Central Park... Kurumi: Ok already! I'll go tourist-ing with you. But I'm not going to like it! Ojiichan: Where is Kyosuke and Madoka? Kurumi: They're already on their way to Greenwich village to surprise a certain someone. [Greenwich Village] Hikaru: Sempai! Madoka! What are you doing here? Madoka: We're here to see you silly girl! Or should I say Star-chan? Kyosuke: Yeah. Are you going to invite us inside? Hikaru: Oh yes,...please come in. Sit down. Let me clear this away. I've been kind of lax in keeping the place up. Do you want something to drink? Kyosuke: No, it's ok. Come on. Sit down yourself. Hikaru: Are you sure? It's really no trouble. Madoka: Yes, we're fine. Hikaru: Wow, It's quite a shock for me to see you two here. It's just starting to sink in. (a moment of silence shared between the three as all three make eye contact with each other) Madoka: So Hikaru-chan. How have you been? Hikaru: Oh, pretty much the same. The routine here is pretty regular. Either I'm working or practicing my part in the play. Kyosuke: So the big debut will be in five days. Ne? Hikaru: Yes. I can hardly believe it. Madoka: I'm so happy for you. We both are. This has been your dream for a long time. Hikaru: Yes, it has been. I must thank Hayakawa-san for being able to glean my true ability in that talent show. Otherwise, I would have never tried to develop it. Speaking of him, didn't he just get married? Madoka: Yes. He and Shiori tied the knot a couple of weeks ago. Hikaru: Silly me. I forgot to ask about you two. Did you plan to come to New York for your honeymoon? Kyosuke: No, not exactly. We're not married yet. Hikaru: What?! I don't understand. I thought you two were going to get married in the first week of May. Madoka: We were, but we decided to postpone it. Hikaru: I hope it's not on account of me. Because if it was, I would feel just terrible. You know how strongly I feel towards both of you and that you're like family to me. I would never want to get between the two of you ever again. And... Kyosuke: Calm down Hikaru. It's ok. Rest assured. You're not to blame. We only delayed the wedding because we wanted to take our time and didn't want to rush into it. Plus we thought it would be the perfect opportunity to see a fantastic dancer in what will be a spectacular debut. Hikaru: Yokata! I was really worried. There's so many things to say and do. I don't know where to start. Kyosuke: How about we three do our catching up over dinner in the Village? Madoka: That's Kyosuke. Always thinking with his stomach. (both girls burst out laughing, with Kyosuke crossing his arms and looking annoyed) [In the Bronx] Kurumi: Phew! I'm glad to be out of the subway! So hot and steaming! This is worst than Tokyo! Don't they have air conditioning around here? Ojiichan: (waving a paper fan) Could be their way of having a bathhouse steam bath. There Americans have strange customs here. Right Obaachan? Obaachan: Oi, oi! Kurumi: (looking at the map) Are you sure this is the right area? I don't see no harbor and I don't see no statue. Ojiichan: It could be farther away than we expected. Let's walk up and ask the locals for direction. There's one. 'Cuse me? Where is Statue of Liberty? "You're talkin' to me?" Ojiichan: Yes sir. Do you know where Statue of Liberty is? "'Course. Sure do. Just follow my lead." Ojiichan: See how friendly these New York folks are? (they follow the man into an alleyway) Kurumi: This is not right. What the hell is going on? Ojiichan: I'll ask the man. 'cuse me sir. We are near Statue of Liberty? "Sure am. (whistles)" (3 menacing men come out) "Meet my entourage, Mr Statue, Mr Of, and Mr Liberty. Go on now and pay ya respects by givin' us all ya money or we will lay down the hammer on ya!" Ojiichan: Ha, ha, ha. "What's so funny, old man? Don't understand English? I said GIVE ME YOUR MONEY OR DIE!" (they take out and brandish their knives) Ojiichan: Oh, you serious. In that case ... (hands start to glow) Kurumi: No ojiichan! No way you're stealing my fun! I want to deal with these thugs my way! "They ain't gonna give it up! I say we go get'em!" "YEAH!" (They all charge!) Kurumi: Yahoo! Time for some smashing! Kurumi does a somersault split kick and smacks two of the charging men down. Then with lightning quick speed, she runs behind the other two, grabs them by the backs of their necks, and slams them together, head to head before bodying slamming them into the ground. As the previous assailants tries to sneak from behind, we see a spinning object coming towards his ... (*BLAMMMMMM*) face. An out of control garbage can lid, courtesy of ojiichan. Kurumi: Ahhh, that was too quick! Come on! Get up! I want more action! (the men groan while lying on the ground) Ojiichan: Now, now. We don't want to hurt the robbers. Kurumi: Why not? They were trying to mug us! Ojiichan: So they were, so they were. They should learn their lesson now. But we made a mistake coming to the wrong area. So we catch the train back. Kurumi: Alright. (bares her teeth and shakes her fist at them) Don't you scumbags ever cross my path again and I'll power-drive you into the cement! (The men nod their heads in fear and groan in panic) Kurumi; That was fun! I got to get some more physical exercise. [At the hotel lobby] (A man bumps accidentally against Muroke) "'cuse me." (he hurries off) Muroke: Gee, that was strange...hey...my wallet's missing! You! Mister! Stop! (starts to run after him) (the mystery man starts to run, with Muroke chasing him. After a few side streets, the man descends down what looks like part of a bookstore; Muroke follows him inside where he catches him at the end of the room going down some stairs into some cellar.) Muroke: You can't get away from me! Hey...who turned out the lights! It's pitch dark here. "Growwllll." Muroke: Oh boy...what did I get myself into... (light suddenly turns on!) "Good of you to make it." Muroke: #1! Kaori! Taki! You're all here! Kaori: Damn right we are. This is a big and delicate operation. Muroke: What the hell is going on? And why the elaborate deception? And what's up with the disguise? #1: (rubbing the black paint off his face) I had to be sure you weren't being followed. There are a lot of eyes on certain people these days. Muroke: Now who would want to follow or track me? #1: You were once an employee of the master. Those conspiring against him will be very keen to monitor all his contacts, former and present, including you. Muroke: So that's why everyone's here. Is the master's life in danger? #1: Not yet. But it will be soon when the Dragon Triad convenes. Muroke: So it's true about the rumors I heard. #1: That and more. I believe an elaborate trap is being set for the master. That's why I wanted to bring you along to assist me. Muroke: I'll do whatever I can to help. #1: Good. That's what I wanted to hear. Muroke: What type of place is this anyway? #1: A secret command center of sorts, complete with reconnaissance, cameras, and computer terminals. Kaori will be the point-person in charge of operations here. She will coordinating the operation while I do the dirty work on the outside. Muroke: How will I get in? #1: What you entered was the closet. The secret entrance is voice-activated and will recede when you say something. Once through, it will close after you. Muroke: Then how do I get out? #1: Over there. When you enter that door and close it behind you, a trap door will appear. When you go through that, you will come back to the original entrance. Muroke: Damn. Why go through so much trouble? #1: You can never be too careful. (spins out his shiny, silver gun and points it at Muroke) Muroke: Woah! Watch where you point that thing! #1: This is to show you one thing. Always expect the unexpected, right when you least expect it. Muroke: Alright. I get you. Since I'm here, I might as well see what your system capabilities are. [At Riki Japanese restaurant] Hikaru: I hope this place is alright for you two. Madoka: It's fine Hikaru. Don't worry about it. Hikaru: So, did you two come alone? Madoka: No. We actually have a large group. Kurumi, Kyosuke's grandparents, and even Master decided to come along. Hikaru: Really. I really feel bad not having time to show you all around. Madoka: That's ok. We can find our own way here. That is part of the fun. Hikaru: Sempai? Is something the matter? Kyosuke: No. Why do you say that? Hikaru: You've been awfully quiet this evening. Kyosuke: I'm sorry. I was deep in thought. I definitely had a lot to think about. Seeing Hikaru looking so radiant and beautiful and confident, while Madoka on the other hand looking quite pale and fatigued in comparison was quite a contrast. Madoka was strong still, but not as strong as before since now she had to watch over herself for two living beings now. It still hadn't hit home yet. That Madoka was with child, and that I would be a father. From the moment these two wonderful ladies entered my life, my life has never been quite the same since. From the youthful exuberance of junior high to growing pains of high school to the maturation in college and now the settling down stage of adulthood. To me it seemed like I was approaching the end of that kimagure road. The end of the best, most wonderful, carefree years of our lives. It seemed so scary to me. I never had to think about serious stuff before. But now was different. Now it mattered that I get a good paying job, for now I a family to raise. I cannot be wild and carefree anymore. In that regard I envied Hikaru-chan. She had it made. She was now a budding flower on the verge of blossoming. Hikaru: Sempai! Something must be the matter. That's the second time you blanked out. Kyosuke: Gomen for my lackadaisical behavior. I guess I'm still recovering a bit from the jet lag from the trip. Hikaru: Oh, I didn't realize that. After this, we should cut it short so you two can get your rest. Kyosuke: We can sleep in tomorrow. We're make the most of this day while we can. So tell me Hikaru, I notice a lot of sketchbooks lying around. Do I detect a future Van Gough here? Hikaru: Oh sempai! You can be such a tease! Yes, I'm the guilty culprit. But they're just doodles, nothing more. Something I do in my spare time. Madoka: I seen them too. They're quite good. Hikaru: But lucky I don't have to depend on them to earn my way. Or otherwise, I would really be a starving artist! (the three of them burst out laughing) As this merriment is going on, somewhere in the heart of Manhattan... [At the Charaugurancha restaurant] Ryusei: Good of you to be able to join me for dinner. Nagasi: Oh Ryu-baby. Who do you take me for? I would never go out to dinner alone by myself. I always let the man take care of all the expenses. Ryusei: Typical. How extravagant were you go today? Nagasi: You know, the usual. 5th Avenue is a great place to shop. Only bought 2 pairs of divine Guicci shoes. A chiffon. A red and white dress suit. A brand new tan leather purse. And... Ryusei: Ok. I get the point. Nagasi: This place blows. We need to get out of this joint. Why don't we do something fun tonight? Ryusei: What do you have in mind? Nagasi: Let's hang at a club. Really happening place this time. C'mon. I wanna be wild tonite! Ryusei: Today would be my only free day since my business starts tomorrow... Nagasi: So no objections then! We'll going dancin' tonight. [Marquis Hotel] "Hey Muroke! Where have you been?" Muroke: Gomen, Shijama! I was making a house-call for a friend that lives here and I didn't notice the time. I hope you all weren't waiting for me! Taku Morisaki: Not that much. We just did some exploring around the immediate vicinity. Saw a lot of interesting places like the All-Star Cafe, a cheese-steak restaurant, and Virgin Megastore. Rikkako: We even got some souvenirs. Taku bought me this mini Statue of Liberty. Muroke: I'm glad you all had a chance to go exploring. Now it's my turn to return the favor. I'm taking you to a restaurant in the 'Village'. Shijama: Village? What village? Muroke: That's just slang for Greenwich Village. Over here, they like to use abbreviations and acronyms. So you have to get with the lingo. [Grand Central Station] Kurumi: We're finally back where we started from! Ojiichan: Baka! 5 hours riding the subway. So terrible. Obaachan: Oi, oi. Kurumi: Blue line, red line, green line and purple! So confusing! No wonder we kept riding in circles. I wish Manami was here! "Hello everyone." Kurumi: Master! What are you doing here? Master:I was worried about you folks. New York City is not one for the uninitiated. Obaachan: No need to worry on us. We Kasugas can handle the foreign elements. Kurumi: Don't mind him Master. He's just being his crusty old self. Where's oniichan? Master: He's and Madoka are not back yet. Kurumi: Hmm, where could they be? [Hikaru, Madoka, and Kyosuke walking along the Theater District] (They pass by billboards of plays playing such as Victor Victoria, Cats, Les Miserables, Miss Saigon, Sunset Boulevard, and the Phantom of the Opera.) Kyosuke: This is certainly the play capitol of the world! Madoka: You must feel lucky to be part of the big scene now. Hikaru: I am. And I'm glad you two are here. Speaking of which, here we are. This is the place where I have been auditioning at. The Shubert Theater. (They see the billboard for "Atlantean") Kyosuke: Wow,you must be really excited. Soon, this street will be filled with people waiting to see the opening debut. Hikaru: Yeah, I guess. I mean it's my dream right? And... (Hikaru stops in mid-sentence and stands there for a moment) Madoka: Is something wrong Hikaru? Hikaru: Oh nothing. For a brief moment, I felt a strange feeling. But it's gone now. Kyosuke: What's that noise down the street? Hikaru: Oh, that's the new club that just opened up. They call it the Mood Paradise. You wanna go in and check it out? Madoka: Sounds nice, but maybe another time. I'm feeling a bit tired now. Kyosuke: Yes, we probably need our rest, from the trip and all. We need to check in with the rest of my family too. Hikaru: Ok then. You know my number. We can talk later to arrange how I can show you around. Madoka: Sounds good. Ja ne! Hikaru: Atikamess! (waves her hand goodbye and makes a 'V' symbol) [Mood Paradise Club] Nagasi: What was that all about back there? Ryusei: My chronic headache began acting up. That's why I felt dizzy suddenly outside the entrance. Nagasi: Gee, you're no fun. Guess you just sit there and watch me have fun. (picks up a hunky male) Hullo stud muffin! Let's get down and dance! Ryusei: (slumps his chin on his palm) -=[Day Two]=- (We see Kyosuke dressed up as a Southern aristocrat and Hikaru dressed up as a Southern belle. They are in her bedroom chambers.) "Oh Ashley sempai, please don't go." "I'm sorry Scarlet Hiyama. I must leave you now." "Nooo! Not until you hear this. I love you. I love you with all my heart!" (She grasps onto him and they embrace, but then he breaks out of this) "No, Scarlet Hiyama. This can't happen." "How can you say that? You know you cannot resist me." "I would be lying if I said I wasn't attracted to you. But I cannot stay with you. I am going to marry Melanie Madoka." "How can you marry her when you and I love each other?" "Scarlet, how can you say that?" "What do you mean? Don't you love me?" "Love you? I loved you the first day I ever laid eyes upon you. But it was not true love, ...the type of love that makes you want to spend the rest of your life with. You were a happy, carefree free spirit, and that was what drew me to you. But you played with me along with the rest of us who sought after you." "How can you say that? I told you already I love you." "Love me? How can you say that you love me? You don't even know the meaning of the word." "Of course I do. I know enough that I can't live without you. Please...please don't leave me." (grabs onto him) "Please Scarlet. Don't make this harder than it has to be. Someday, you will understand the love that me and Melanie share. Until then goodbye." (As Kyosuke leaves with Hikaru sobbing, a mysterious figure cloaked in a black cape and dress, and wearing a black mask enters) "What stranger dares enters my room? Don't you know who I am?" "Ha Ha Ha. 'Course I know who you are. Scarlet O'Hikaru, the belle of all belles. Pity it's true what people say about you." "I don't care what they think of me. What I do care is to know who the hell you are and what are you doing here? "Allow me to make my introduction. Captain Butler at your service." (does a bow)" "Captain Butler? (*oh!*) I heard of you. You're the scoundrel smuggler!" "The very scoundrel, milady." "Get out! I don't want to associate with ill folk like you!" "A sharp tongue you wield. Too bad it's attached to a spoiled brat like you." "How dare you speak like that to a lady!" "You, my dear are not a lady. That much is evident." "Humph! If you don't leave right now I'm going to scream!" "Go ahead. Yell at the top of your lungs. I don't care." "I really would! I'm not lying." "If you want to behave like a baby, then I'm not stopping you." "You're the one to talk. You don't even show your face." "How right you are. I have been told it's a very ugly face." "If you're not afraid of me screaming, then I'm not afraid of your face." "Ok. Suit yourself." (as he removes the mask, he reveals himself to be....) (*DING DING DING DING*) (alarm clock sounds) Hikaru opens up her eyes. Hikaru: [At the Physics Symposium Conference at New York University] Taku: This is super great! I'm glad I came along with you on this summer trip. I've read even Michio Kaku is here to speak! Muroke: Yeah. There's a dissertation in progress now. ...time is not an absolute constant concept, but rather an ever-changing, ever-varying current, which runs through our minds. That is why the passage of time, in terms of perceived duration, varies from individual to individual. I hypothesize that this is an unexpected corollary of the Heisenberg uncertainty principle. Just as we cannot never ascertain the true position of an electron, the same holds for biological perception of time. For even a fruit fly can experience an entire lifetime within a single day. A hummingbird just a little bit longer. With different sensory perceptions of time by different organisms, who is to say what is the true reference of time? But with that, we can delve into the true dimension beyond the 4th dimension of time. Beyond the absoluteness we are accustomed to, tuning our clocks and determining our reference planes, as dictated by the laws of relativity. Not the time travel business jumping back and forth from the past to the present and future. That is beyond our comprehension and level in this time, no pun intended. Rather, I surmise that the human process of thought is the next dimension. Why, you might ask? Inanimate objects, without thought or sense, will experience the normal passages of time. A rock, without stimuli, in a vacuum will still be a rock and have no regard for time. For these objects, the passage of time is constant and knows no variables. But for living beings, that is another matter. We possess the unique ability to form and shape time as we know it, within our limits. That is why our perception of time varies accordingly to the level of our sensory perception, which in turn, triggers chemical body functions which control the aging of our cells. As we actively engage the mind through some enjoyable, recreational activity, we are slowing down the passage of time, according to our reference, or speeding up the passage of time if taken from the reference of the environment, explaining the adage why "Time flies when we are having fun." ... Taku: Wow, what a fascinating lecture! Muroke: I can tell you can get totally engrossed here today. Taku: You bet. Physics and the stars and the mystery of the universe dominate my life now. Muroke: Aren't you forgetting someone? Taku: Rikkako? I didn't forget her. I consider her a star in my life. Muroke: Nice recovery. Too bad she's not here to hear it. Taku: She probably would hate it. She's very particular about what she likes and doesn't like. But we'll meet up with her later. Muroke: That's true. Hey, if we hurry, we can catch the quantum fusion lecture! [New York Precinct] "Detective Jackson reporting for duty sir!" "Buddy! You're back man! I thought I lost you there in the land of the orient. How's it feel to be back in the good'ole US of A?" "It feels good sir. Except for that 5am flight! But other than that, I should be cool. I do need some time to get back into the old groove." "'Course man. How long were you over there anyway?" "Coming up on 2 and half years now. I was just startin' to get settled in. Which is why I can't figure out why you suddenly recalled me back. "I think I might be able to answer that." (A lady enters the chief of police's office) Jackson: And you are... "Officer Kanuka Clancy." (performs a slight bow) Jackson: Aren't you my counterpart who's suppose to be going back in my place? Clancy: I am. But first, there is unfinished business here that I must brief you on. Jackson: But....(looks towards the chief) "It's out of my hands Jackson. This is the work of internal affairs. They're the ones who called you back, not me. " Jackson: Oh brother. What rat's nest did they get me into? [At Apollo Couriers] (Hikaru rushes in, huffing and puffing) "About time Double-H! You're 15 minutes late!" Hikaru: Very sorry boss. I promise it won't happen again. "Better not! Or else it's comin' outa of ya pay." Hikaru: I understand. "Don't just stand there! Here are the packages to deliver. You gotta make up the time along the way." Hikaru: Gotcha boss. Bye! (rushes out the door with a head of steam) "That girl...whew! She's gonna get trouble followin' her." [At a ballroom] We see a fashion show in place where Ryusei is sitting near the front of the catwalk. (*flashback to hotel room*) Nagasi: Aiee! Ryusei: Don't shriek like that. You know how that gets on my nerves. Nagasi: Look! A black arrow is stuck on the side of the wall. Nagasi: Who would do such a thing? Ryusei: We shall soon see. (yanks the arrow cleanly in one motion and plucks out the note attached to it) Welcome Chameleon. You managed to fool a lot of people, but not me. Want to find out who I really am? Now's your chance. Arrive on 5th avenue alone to the fashion show and I promise to make it worth your while. Until we cross each other again. Y (*end flashback*) [In Greenwich Village in the techno cafe area] Madoka: It's hard to believe we're back here again so soon. Kasuga. I know. Thank god it's for pleasure this time instead of business. "Yo man. You two are back again." (They see a black man in dread-locks) Kasuga: Huh? Madoka: Excuse my forgetful boyfriend. Chiru Chiru Michiru, right? "Correct mon. Back in the neighborhood so soon?" Madoka: Yes. We're here on vacation and I always had a soft spot in my heart for this particular area. Kasuga: I didn't know that! Madoka: Now you know. How are things with you Michiru? "Easy come, easy go. Odd jobs on and off. Back spoofing in the cafes again." Madoka: Is that so? You happen to have an empty terminal point? "If you need one then you shall have one. Need a jack?" Madoka: No, I brought my own. (takes out her Apple Powerbook) Kasuga: Want me to get you anything? Madoka: A latte would fine with me. Kasuga: Coming right up. [Hikaru riding on her courier bicycle, with her free flowing golden hair swaying in the wind] (Suddenly, a person darts out from a corner) (Hikaru neatly swerves to avoid the collision) Hikaru: Miss, are you alright? Oh, it's you! "Damn right! You're almost killed me! I should have expected it, Hiyama" Hikaru: Nagasi-san, you can't be serious. I didn't do it on purpose. And what are you doing in town anyway? Nagasi: I would tell you to shove off, but seeing how pathetic your life is, I might was well throw you a bone. Me and Ryu baby are going to be hitched up in the Big Apple! What do you think about that, huh? Hikaru: Omento. It's great you two are getting together. Nagasi: You're not jealous? Humph. Hikaru: Why should I be jealous? Nagasi: Don't tell me you don't notice the way he looks at you. Hikaru: How can I tell anything? He's always wearing those sunglasses. Nagasi: You are so dense. Explains why he pitied you. Hikaru: What do you mean? Nagasi: (smirks) You a street girl now. You should know what I mean. Don't you ever wonder why you got the part in this play? Hmmm? You better watch yourself or you'll end up like Anita! Chow! Hikaru: [At the Fashion show] Ryusei is sitting in the front, near the catwalk. as the models come in and out adorned in the latest, slinky fashion, cameras flashing, and the announcing buzzing with commentary. But Ryusei is looking at his watch wondering when it will be all over. As he is about to leave, the final model, an exotic Asian female wearing a peculiar Egyptian-style outfit appears and catches his eye. As she approaches him, she gives him a look and then turns away. As she walks away, Ryusei notices a piece of paper left behind on the catwalk. He reaches out and picks it up. Inside it reads: You have come and so have I. Having piqued your curiosity, it's time for business. I have a proposition you cannot resist. Go to the firecracker shop on Canal Street at 5:55pm. Y Ryusei: [At the police precinct, inside a conference room] Jackson: So what's the deal here? I don't like my chain being jerked around. Clancy: It is all elementary Detective Jackson. The nature of this operation is very sensitive. Jackson: Isn't it always. Still don't see what this has to do with me. Clancy: We require your talents in making this operation a success. A gathering of the top Asian underworld will be amassing in New York in the next few days. Heading the list is Goro Shimazaki. Jackson: Shimazaki! That guy is slipperier than a snake! Clancy: So you heard of him. Jackson: 'course. My department have been trying to crack into his secret network, but with no success. All the informants have been sent back in body-bags. Clancy: Because of your experience with him, you know him better than anybody. That is why we require your assistance. We hope we can shut down his syndicate in one fell swoop. Jackson: Somethin' still don't make sense. Clancy: I believe the objectives are spelled out clearly in the document you hold. Jackson: No, not that. Why is the NYPD involved? Why should they care about an international crime boss? Clancy: Perfectly valid questions. Unfortunately, I can reveal the answer to you yet. Every piece of information is on a need to know basis. I hope I still can enjoin your cooperation. Jackson: Hey, I'm here, ain't I? I got a job to do and I aim to do it well. So when do we start? Clancy: Review the documents first and report back here tomorrow morning at 10am. That will be all for today. (bows and leave) Jackson: [Inside the bookstore] Kaori: I'm starving! When is he coming back? Taki: Ruff! #1: I'm back. Kaori: Where the hell were you? I was cooped up here most of the day. #1: Doing stuff. Here. Kaori dives into the Chinese take-out on the table. Kaori: (*munch, munch*) Did you get the Mongolian beef? #1: In the other carton. What is the latest status? Kaori: Ryu attended some fashion show in the morning. He then made some stops along Broadway before departing for Wall Street. He had lunch, took a walk through Central Park, and then made his way to the docks. #1: That's good. (brandishes his silver glittering gun) Kaori: Do you have to take that out? #1: Of course. Ole Betsy had a good cleaning by Mad Ivan, the best gun man in the city. (*spins the barrel*) Now she's ready for action! [At the Shubert theater] Natalie: Yo Star*Chan! What's up with you? All your twirls are off! Hikaru: I'm not feeling like myself today. Natalie: That's a major bummer. You gotta snap out of it. Hikaru: Yeah, you're right. Natalie: 'Course. Only 3 more days before the big day! Hikaru: Tell me about it. Natalie: Whatever you got, you gotta get it out of your system. I'll getting out of here. Can't miss tonight's episode of 'Friends'. Hikaru: See you later. [Canal Street, Chinatown] 5:55pm (Ryusei enters the firecracker shop, where he sees an old Chinese man inside). Old Man: (in Cantonese) You want to buy something? Ryusei: No. I am waiting for someone here. Old Man: No wait. We closing. 6pm close. Ryusei: That 5 minutes away! Old Man: We close early. You go. (pushes him out) Ryusei: Now that was a waste of time. (A red objects rolls towards him at his feet) (It is a stick of dynamite!) (Ryusei picks it up and reads the roll-up note) This is the final stop for you, but only the beginning for your task. Inside this cannister lies the key to fulfilling your obligation to Shimazaki-san. Until then, I shall be watching you. Y (in the form of a dragon) -=[Day Three]=- [Marquis Hotel] "Muroke!" Muroke: <*Yawnnn*> W-w-what now Shijama? Zumi: A surprise. Guess what I got? Muroke: No, what? Zumi: Yankee tickets today! Muroke: Cool! Zumi: Why are you so tired? Muroke: Oh, I had a late night yesterday... (*flashback to last night*) Muroke: What's the big idea calling me out here in the middle of the night? #1: There could be a person who you want to meet here. Muroke: (taken aback) Haroken-san! Ryusei: #2, good to have you back on the team. Muroke/#2: Oh sure...I'm glad to help out. What is the assignment this time? Kaori: This one's a whopper! Taki: (*RUFF!*) #1: That's right Taki. Ryusei: The job at hand involves "removal" of a certain object. Muroke: Removal? You mean you want me to help you guys steal something? Kaori: You wish. It's more like taking back what is ours. Muroke: What do you mean? #1: Here's the story. Picture this... 50 years ago in 1945, Japan surrenders to the likes of General MacArthur aboard the Missouri. It was a dark day in Japanese history made even more darker with the looting of several ancient, prized Japanese royal treasures. One of them was a ornate royal chest, dating all the way back to the inception of Japan 500 years ago. Muroke: So you want to steal the chest back, right? Ryusei: No. Originally, it was thought to contain nothing inside. However, it has come to my knowledge that indeed, there is a old artifact stored inside a false, secret compartment. Our job is to retrieve that item, whatever it may be. We can leave the chest alone. Muroke: So you want me to do what in this little endeavor? Kaori: A lot! There's why you're here! Ryusei: Specifically, we need to bypass several key mechanisms of the security systems in place. Here are the blueprints to the building. Muroke: Man, this looks like a fortress! #1: You can say that. It a cross between Fort Knox and the Pentagon. Kaori: From what I have gathered already, this underground complex has all the latest surveillance systems running. Palm-print, voice, and retina scans at every checkpoint, 5 second automatic lockout when any alarm is triggered. Motion, thermal, and humidity sensors. Everyone in the building is tracked. Any foreign object will be shot on sight, including people. The holding rooms are a pressurized vacuum; without a special suit, you'll choke to death or be crushed. And to top it all off, lasers surround each and every object. Muroke: Kami-sama! What could be so valuable that they should go through such security measures? Kaori: The US government disavows of any knowledge of this hidden underground installation. That means the CIA is involved somehow. #1: Make sense. The 'Company' has a lot of secrets to protect, along with the goods they've stolen. They can't afford to let even one slip. Muroke: This seems impossible! Ryusei: Nothing is impossible #2. Muroke: The security systems I probably can hack away and disable for a while. But there's nothing I can do about the vacuum rooms. #1: You don't need to worry about that. We will. Just allow us to get past the electronic systems. Muroke: Fine. Suit yourself. So what's your ETA for this operation? Ryusei: 3 days from now. Muroke: So soon? Ryusei: A necessary deadline before Shimazaki's arrival. Muroke: I'm just curious; if this info is so hush hush, how did you get access to these blueprints anyway? Ryusei: Goro Shimazaki's messenger was all too obliging. I saw the sign of the Y. (*end flashback*) [At the UN Plaza building] Kyosuke is there along with Madoka exhibiting the photos which he took in Bosnia. Madoka: Whose idea was this? Kyosuke: It was Tamaki-san's suggestion. She heard I was going to New York with you and called up her old friends over here to arrange the whole thing. I didn't want to bother at first but she insisted that I do it. Said it would give the victims of this conflict a face to the public here and bring awareness. That was the least I owed them. I thought about it and finally agreed to it. And so here we are, Madoka: Very noble of you, even though someone had to twist your arm to do it. Kyosuke: Madoka! "Excuse me. Are you the photographer of these pictures?" (They see a tall, think lady dressed in black and wearing shades and a veiled hat) Kyosuke: Why yes I am! You speak Japanese too? That's great. Do you have any questions about them? "Do you sell your photographs?" Kyosuke: Uhhh...I never thought about that. Madoka, what do you think... (Kyosuke turns his head but doesn't see her) "Your friend seem to have stepped away." Kyosuke: I dunno...what photograph were you interested in anyway? "This one." (points to the closeup picture of one of the soldier's side profile) Kyosuke: You want that one? "Yes I do. And I prepared to offer you one thousand dollars for it." Kyosuke: $1000! Holy smoke! You got a deal lady! (smirks) "Goood. Here you go." (hands him a wad of crisp, clean hundred dollar bills) I'll be taking this." (plucks the picture away and starts to walk away) Kyosuke: Excuse me. May I ask your name please? (tips her shades down a bit and in a sultry deep voice) "Yayoi" [Hikaru riding on her bicycle to go see Kyosuke's exhibit] (just then, she sees Ryusei Haroken enter a cab) Hikaru: Haroken-san! So he is here with Nagasi. Did he have a hand in getting me picked for the part. I must know! Otherwise, there's no way I can dance for the premiere! (Hikaru follows the cab from 45th street up to the Sony Plaza up on E 55th Street) Hikaru pulls up to a corner intersection and looks around. Hikaru: Where could he have gone? I only took my eye off him for a second... "Hiyama-san, is that you following me?" (Hikaru turns around and sees Haroken-san right behind her, sporting those trademark sunglasses) Hikaru: Oh, Haroken-san. Gomen. I was. Forgive me. How did you know? Haroken: I am an agent. I have a sense for these things. And having these sunglasses with side reflections allows me to see things from behind. Hikaru: Oh. I'm sorry for that. I needed to talk to you. Haroken: Talk? To me? I'm surprised you're still very civil and polite. Last thing I remembered was something along the lines of you hating my guts and never wanting to see me again. Hikaru: You are right; I did not forget. I could tell you that you are an unfeeling, ruthless, cold person who doesn't give a damn for the little people. But then you already know that. But my business with you now is professional. Haroken: I would love to stay and listen to you berate me, but I have an important business meeting to attend to. If you will excuse me... Hikaru: You can't brush me off like that until you tell me something! Haroken: You are very persistent when you're angry. Very well. We will resolve whatever matter you have on your mind later. I will meet you in your apartment at a later time and discuss it. Now is not the time nor the venue. Hikaru: You know where my apartment is? Haroken: (looks back) I know everything about you. That is why I'm an agent. Ja! (from afar, Kanuka Clancy happens to chance upon seeing Hikaru and Haroken-san together) Kanuka: Hikaru knows that man!? This could get more complicated. [At the UN Building] Kurumi: Hey oniichan! Pretty depressing pictures here. Kyosuke: Of course it is! It's suppose to depict the human condition and the hidden suffering of this Balkan conflict. About time you guys made it to my exhibit. What took you so long? Ojiichan: Sight seeing expedition. Views wait for no person. Right obaachan? Obaachan: Oi, oi! Kurumi: It was so kewl! We went to Madison Square Garden where they have this wrestling event going on! They were hitting each other with chairs and smacking each other silly! They also were wearing these super looking outfits. Really pumps up the adrenaline. Kyosuke: Sounds lovely. Ojiichan: Where's Madoka-san? Kyosuke: She in the bathroom again. Kurumi: Gee, by the way Madoka's been acting these few days, you would think she's pregnant or something. (ha ha ha) Kyosuke: (nervous laugh) Yeah. Very funny. Hey...why not we do this? I'm buying you all lunch today! Kurumi: Yahoo! I love free food. [At St Patrick's cathedral] We see #1 enter a confession booth. #1: Forgive me my father for I have sinned. "You're one hell of a sinner to dare enter this box." #1: Lord knows I'm bad to the bone, Casey, "I didn't come down here to listen to a sermon of sin. Get to the point. What do you want?" #1: I need a fav from the higher ups at the 'pol. "You always need a favor. What is it this time?" #1: I need access to Area 55. "Baka! Are you nuts! All the fives' installations are off limits!" #1: I wouldn't be asking if it wasn't important. "There is no way that's going to happen." #1: Not even if it means a chance to infiltrate the 'X-pers'? "Shhh! Don't mention that word again! You know it's taboo." #1: So you know what I'm dealing with. "It appears the stakes have been raised. It will be a prickly task to convince the top brass, but I'll try my best. But I'm not making any assurances." #1: I need you guys to pull it off. We will begin the operation in 2 days. [At Hikaru's apartment] I manage to arrive at Kyosuke's exhibit where I met up with everyone again, although I was sad that Manami-chan could not make the trip. It was as if everyone did not change. Kurumi was still her tough, brusque self. Master was still the kind "uncle-like" figure. Kyosuke's ojiichan and obaachan were their same jolly selves. Madoka was in her quiet, demure self, while Sempai was still bumbling around. Yes, it seems that everyone was the same except me. They all asked me so many different questions, of which I was happy to oblige. But I had this strange feeling being the only one that really changed among the whole group. It was one thing to meet them on my return trip back to Japan, but it was another for them to be on my home turf. Somehow, I felt exposed and open. I was afraid they might see that I was not totally independent. A part of me was still my scared little self that needed someone to cling to. (as she unlocks the door to her apartment) Hikaru: Haroken-san! What are you doing here? Ryusei: You weren't here so I let myself in. But I'm not here for idle chit-chat. You want to discuss something so out with it. Hikaru: Yes, I do. What I need to know from you is whether you had a hand in me landing the part for the play Atlantean. Ryusei: Atlantean? Hmm...I might have heard of it. Hikaru: Don't play dumb with me! I know you are well versed in the new opening plays around the world. Ryusei: I might have come across it, along with a dozen other plays. I am a busy man. But why would I help you? Hikaru: You had a habit of doing stuff for me before in the past. Ryusei: Those were just small favors. Consider it an employee perk. But now you are my ex-employee. So you can rest assured that I had nothing to do with the selection process. Hikaru: Honest? Ryusei: What objective would I gain? I only do things that serve my best interests. Hikaru: That's true. I've seen it with my own eyes. Ryusei: Is that all? Hikaru: Yes. I'm sorry to put you through all this trouble just to squash a nagging doubt of mine. Ryusei: Then my business here is done. Good day then. (stands up and leaves) Hikaru: (as she is closing the door) Why do I get this strange feeling whenever he is around? [At the NYPD police precinct] Detective Jackson is stuck in a room going through a stack of papers. (Kanuka Clancy enters) Jackson: About time you came back! I didn't travel half the globe just to be cooped up in this hellhole reading this crap! Clancy: You must be fully briefed on the particulars before you can proceed onto the next step. Jackson: Operation and procedure blah blah blah. I know this stuff already. What do you take me for? Clancy: I leave no stone unturned. So you've finished perusing the particulars? Jackson: Hell yeah. Now mind telling me why you're jerking my chain? Clancy: I not sure where you come from, but on my watch I do things by the book. I seen too many king-pen bosses slip away because some rogue officers failed to follow procedure. And this operation can ill incur any mistakes. And that's the way it's going to be. Now if you don't like the way I do things, I can just ship your sorry ass back to the hellhole you came from. Do I make myself clear? Jackson: Yes maam! Clancy: Now that I have your full attention, we can discuss Operation Overlord. -=[Day Four]=- [At the bookstore secret area] #1: You're awake? Muroke: Huh? What time is it? #1: It's 5 minutes to 6. Muroke: What! I stayed the whole night! #1: Yep. How far did you get? Muroke: Oh, that. (looks at the screen) I manage to get a schematic of the outer systems. I can work here another 2 hours before I have to get back. Otherwise, my friends will start to get suspicious. Where's Kaori? #1: Picking up supplies for the raid. You better work fast. We have less than a day tomorrow before we start. Muroke: (tapping away at the keys) I know, I know. Don't worry. The system will be cracked before you know it. [At the hotel] Madoka: Kyosuke. Are you awake? Kyosuke: (*yawwnnn*) What is it Madoka? Madoka: How do you feel about me? Kyosuke: Y'know I love you, don't you? Madoka: Yeah, but anything else? Kyosuke: You know you're the greatest. Why you're going to be the mother of my child. That's why I have to look after you and our precious from now on. You don't have to do anything from now on. I'll take care of everything. Now go back to sleep and get your rest. Madoka: [At Hikaru's apartment] (as Hikaru wakes up from her sleep, she slowly punches both arms in the air like a prized fighter) I felt like a new woman reborn again. Today was the final day for me as Hikaru, the dreamer. Tomorrow I will be Hikaru the dancer. I never thought that I would reach this point 4 years ago when I was a wide-eyed girl just graduating from high school. And through the years, I have suffered and endured, through heart breaks, sorrow, hunger, rejection, and violence. I didn't know if I could make it to this point or not. But I never stopped hoping and believing in myself. But I owe it all to one person who never stopped believing in me. He was the one who pushed me to pursue my dreams. Now he is watching me from above, like my guardian angel. My only regret was not realizing how special he was to me sooner. But it's too late now, and I learned never to live in the past; just worry about the here and now. At least I can keep one of the promises I made to him. [At New York Harbor] (Ryusei is walking along the docks, amidst the foggy overcast) (He gazes across and sees a ship come in. On it's side is labeled "The Kamui") As the ship drops anchor, Ryusei patiently waits to get on-board. As the plank is assembled, Ryusei is soon greeted by the Captain. Captain: Haroken-san! Never fancy meeting you here. Ryusei: This shipment is very important to me. I'm here to see it through. Captain: It's good you're assisting Kobayashi-san. Without your help at the cape, we would have been grounded for weeks. Ryusei: I trust that everything is intact? Captain: Yes it is sir. I run this ship tightly from stem to stern. All the cargo is safe 'n sound. Ryusei: That would be all then. (hands him an envelope) You and the rest of the crew can have shore leave for the rest of the week. My own people will be coming in to handle the unloading. Captain: Mighty generous of you sir! We will certainly paint the town red! Ryusei: [Hilton Hotel] (*ring ring*) Nagasi: Ryu-baby...get it! (*ring ring*) Nagasi: I SAID GET IT! (*ring ring*) Nagasi: Bakayo! (picks up receiver) Who is it? "Hullo. I wish to speak to Ryusei Haroken." Nagasi: Well he sure ain't here. "He isn't? That's too bad. I've come a long way to see him." Nagasi: Tough luck. Now who is calling? "You may tell him that 'Big Red' is seeking him for the gathering. I'll be in touch." (*CLICK*) Nagasi: That was rude! I'm gonna tell Ryusei to tell off this 'Big Red' asshole for ruining my beauty sleep! [At Central Park] (a crowd has already amassed at what seem to be a concert) Kurumi: Great gig master! How did you know about this? Master: (wearing his ABCB shirt and holding up a camcorder) I never miss the chance to see my most favorite artist. Pan and the boys will be jealous when I show them this tape. Ojiichan: Humph! Kurumi: What's wrong? Ojiichan: This loud noise is so harsh to the ears. Kyosuke: It's not so bad. It's not even heavy metal. Ojiichan: Oh, how I pine for the sweet Kyoto drums. Kyosuke: Are you kidding? This is 'Genesis' we're talking about! They're part of the music I grew up listening to. Right Madoka? Madoka: Shhh. They're playing my favorite song. "...and we holding on now Invisible Touch now...." [On the other side of Central Park] Ryusei is walking along and stops at a chess game being played between a young boy and old grandfather. He also hears the music in the background. As he is standing there, he starts to teeter about. Young boy: What's the matter mister? Ryusei: I seem to be experiencing a slight headache. Where is that music coming from? Young boy: That? You mean the charity concert today at the park. Ryusei: So that's it. I seem to have heard this music before. Young boy: It's Genesis at the park day. Old Grandfather: Are you going to play or talk to the man? Young boy: I'm still thinking! Ryusei: Thanks for the info kid. I don't want to bother your game any further. One more thing kid. Young boy: What? Ryusei: Bishop takes knight, mate in 5. [At Hikaru's apartment] (*ding dong*) (Hikaru peers through the eyehole and quickly opens the door) Hikaru: Officer Clancy! What a pleasant surprise! Come in. Clancy: Thank you, Miss Hiyama. How are you doing? Hikaru: Oh just fine. I didn't recognize at first without your uniform. Clancy: I'm off duty right now. Everything in order? Hikaru: Just about. Only feeling a bit of the butterflies for tomorrow. Clancy: That's right. You're big debut is tomorrow. Hikaru: Bingo! And I have a ticket for you! Clancy: Oh, I'm not sure if I can attend. Better save the ticket for someone else. Hikaru: Oh nooo...I want you to have it. You've been such a big support line for me since the incident, I don't how else I could repay you. Clancy: Well thank you very much. I see if I can swap shifts with someone. By the way, I caught a glimpse of you talking with this fellow down by East 55th street. Hikaru: Oh, you must mean Haroken-san. Actually, it's quite embarrassing. I was trying to follow him. Clancy: Follow him? What for? Hikaru: Oh, it was some nagging doubts in my mind. I thought he pulled a few strings for me, being my former employer and all, but it turns out that it was just my silly mind playing tricks on me. Clancy: So you worked for him before. In what capacity may I ask? Hikaru: Oh, it was way back when I returned to Japan to audition for this part. To make a long story short, I got hooked up in his play production. I stayed there for a few months before deciding to return back here. Why the sudden interest? Clancy: Oh, I was concerned about your personal relationships. I mean, you do have your Italian boyfriend you're seeing right now. Wouldn't want to mix up the pot with too many men in your life. Hikaru: Ain't that the truth! But he's getting married anyway. To his assistant no doubt. Say, why don't we crash down to the new club, 'Mood Paradise'? If you have time. Clancy: Why not? I'm off duty right now. Hikaru: Yippee! Let's go! [At the loading docks at the 'Kamui'] Foreman: Load these containers down to warehouse 55! (As we see the scores of men moving the crates, we see one of the men to be Inspector Jackson!) Jackson: [Back at the Marquis Hotel] Shijama Zumi: You're finally back! Where were you the whole morning? I couldn't find you? Muroke: Oh, I... Shijama: Doesn't matter know. Taku and Muto-san are waiting for us. Muroke: For what? Shijama: We only have one more day left before we fly off Monday midnight. So we gotta pack in all the sightseeing today. Muroke: Oh, but I can't... Shijama: Of course you can! Here they are now. Hi guys! Taku: Hello. Shijama: What are we up for today? Rikkako: We already covered the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, the Guggenheim, and Times Square. The remaining attractions are Central Park, Greenwich Village, Chinatown, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty. Shijama: Then we better get a move on. Let's go! [Back at the bookstore secret area] (Ryusei staggers in) #1: (helps Ryusei to a chair) What's wrong boss? Ryusei: My chronic headaches. Urgh. It has returned. #1: What triggered this episode this time? Ryusei: This song ...I heard...in the park. Must have awoken a hidden memory inside. I...I can hardly contain the pain within. #1: What do you see this time? Ryusei: I see...a veiled face against a dark backdrop. I'm trying to see who it is so I try get closer...and closer...and.... (*A shriek of terror by Ryusei!*) #1 quickly applies an injection to his arm. Kaori: What'd you do? #1: Gave him some medication. That should keep him asleep for a few hours. Kaori: This is bad. If he's out, how can we possibly conduct the operation tomorrow? #1: It will happen. He just needs his rest and some temporary amnesia. Kaori: Temporary amnesia? #1: The "juice" inside him not only puts him out to sleep, but erases his short term memory. Kaori: How long has this been happening? #1: The headaches started a couple years back. Virtually anything can trigger memory flashback, from a scent or taste of a food, to even listening to an old tune. Unlucky he had to hear the tune today. Kaori: But you're just playing with his mind. #1: Better than insanity which is what will happen if left untreated. Kaori: How do you know if he will go crazy or not? #1: I just know. We have our hands full preparing for penetration into the compound. [Mood Paradise] (Hikaru and Officer Clancy enters) (Multi-color strobe lights flash all around them.) Hikaru: So what do you think? Clancy: Seems like a real happenin' place. Hikaru: Wanna drink? Clancy: No thank you. I'm fine. Hikaru: Ok. I'll get myself something. (As she approaches the bar...) Hikaru: Master! What are you doing here? And serving drinks? Master: Oh, hi Hikaru-chan! Kurumi: Hey, Hikaru's here! Ojiichan: Oh Hikaru-chan! You've grown so big! And firm...(eyes bulging) (*smack on the back of the head*) Kurumi: Ojiichan! Don't be so hentai! Obaachan: Oi, Oi! Ojiichan: Owww! Respect your elders! Hikaru: Wow, just about everyone's here. What are you all doing here? Master: We just came back from the Genesis concert. I suggested we drop by my good friend's new club. And here we are. Hikaru: Where's Madoka and Kyosuke? Kurumi: Oh, Madoka wasn't feeling too well, so both she and oniichan went back to the hotel. Ojiichan: So you want to dance Hikaru-chan? Hikaru: Uhh Sure. I would love to. (as they enter the dance floor, Ojiichan looks hilarious wiggling around and dancing like a yokel) As this is going on, we see Nagasi enter, with another man in her arms. As Hikaru's gaze turns upon them... Hikaru: Bruno!? What are you doing with her!!??? [Marquis Hotel] Shijama: Wow, what a day! We got to squeeze in all the sights. Muroke: (flops on the bed) Yeah. Now I'm sooooo tired! Shijama: (turns on TV) Hey look! (they see the X-Files!) Muroke: Looks like it just started. "Welcome to the season finale of the X-Files!" Shijama: Cool! We get to see what happens in the end before anyone else in Japan does! [Madoka and Kyosuke] Kyosuke: How are you feeling Madoka? Madoka: Much better than before. Am I showing? Kyosuke: Of course not! You've always had a fantastic figure. You hide it well. Madoka: So I see... Kyosuke: What's been bugging you Madoka? Madoka: What do you mean? Kyosuke: You've haven't been yourself ever since we got off the plane. Madoka: You have to realize all the events that have transpired these past few weeks. First the demolition of Orange Road and then the shocking death of Mishima. Kyosuke: You know he tried to kill me! Madoka: I know. But his dying words shall always remain with me. And that's something I have to live with for the rest of my life. Kyosuke: You don't think he's haunting you, right? Madoka: I don't know what to think anymore. All I know now is that I'm not as strong as you think I am. Kyosuke: Maybe I'm being too insensitive. (puts his arms around her to comfort her) There Madoka. There's nothing for you to worry about. You will not be alone anymore. [At the X-Files last episode viewing] "...nothing vanishes without a trace!" Shijama: What a cliffhanger! Taku: I wonder what happened to Mulder. Muroke: It's gotta be the supernatural stuff going on, in the desert near Area 51. Shijama: Say Taku-san, I never asked you this, but I'm wondering, since you're studying astronomy, do you believe in extraterrestrial life? Taku: Being of a scientific discipline, I can't say I believe in that stuff, but then again I can't discount the possibility. What do you guys think? Shijama: I'm with you on that, scientifically speaking. Although it makes for good science fiction, there's no way there's ESPer type activity going out there. Muroke: I have to disagree with you. Shijama: So you're actually a believer, like Mulder. Muroke: You got to have both types in this world in order to make it work. And there's just too many strange phenomenon that can't be explained away. Telekinesis, levitation, amazing feats of strength, and unexplained auras. At least that's my take on it. Who knows? We humans might evolve to possess ESPer like qualities in another couple of hundreds of thousands of years. Shijama: Well, I'm not holding my breath for that. Muroke: Very funny. Taku: I've gotta be going. Or else Rikky would get on my case. Konbonwa! Muroke: I've got to go too. Bye! Shijama: Gawd! Is everyone doing a disappearing act on me? -=[Day Five]=- [Morning] Ryusei: Where am I? Why am I here? Kaori: You finally woke up boss. Lucky for you today is the day. (#1 enters) #1: So our 'Sleeping Dragon' has awakened. Ryusei: Was it because of my condition? #1: Yep, but I took care of that. Kaori: What are you holding? #1: The key to our success today. My 'associate' came through. Muroke: <*snoring*> Ryusei: #2 is here as well? #1: Sure have. He's been a real trooper for us. Now are we need is for you to execute. Ryusei: I know what I have to do. Let us begin. [At the Shubert Theater] Natalie: Hey Star-chan! What's eating at you? Hikaru: I've been through my ups and downs this whole week. Natalie: Like it's so like the play itself. Y'know, greek tragedy and all. Hikaru: I sure hope today is an up day for me. Natalie: 'course. You're lucky. If you're nervous, you can dance your way out of those early jitters. Director: Final preparations people! This will be the final practice run-through. So gulp your morning mocha and stay alert! Now places, places people! Props, sound, stage, ready! Natalie: Just a few hours more and it's action! Hikaru: Ok. Yoshi! Let's dance! [-END ACT I-] ========================================================================