Robert Kwong
27th January 2005, 02:22 PM
Hi All,
Sorry I screwed up the title post for Chapter 5. I forgot to add 'Book
C' to it. I've also put back the funny looking 'K' in the title post.
There is actually a reason for that. I let you all mull over it.
And now, here's Book C Chapter 8: Lingering Spirits.
-------------------------------------------------------------
H A R D
|< O R
interlude Edition
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
ver 1.0
Finished 12-12-98
Based on characters from the Kimagure Orange Road Series created by
the venerable Matsumoto Izumi.
As you can see, this is fanfiction harkening back to the old Kimagure
Orange Orange Road Series. In the Prelude edition, it outlines the
events following the breakup of Hikaru and Kyousuke which sets the
stage for Shin Kor and HARD Kor series. These stories were written in
the attempt to clarify certain details assumed and to provide clues
for future Hard Kor episodes. Book A and Book B chapters provides the
events after Shin Kor I. This Book C will bridge the gap between Shin
Kor II and Shin Kor III.
HardKor Web Site (With Disclaimer and back-stories: Book A and Book B
chapters) http://www-ucsee.eecs.berkeley.edu/~rk/HardKor.html
My SuperPage for the General Kimagure Orange Road enthusiast
http://www-ucsee.eecs.berkeley.edu/~rk/Kor.html
My contact email address for comments or further correspondence:
rk@soda.berkeley.edu
Thanks for reading my stories and making it one the most popular KOR
fanfic on the web! (32000 can't be wrong!)I hope you enjoy reading it
as I did writing it. Thanks again. Robert Kwong Ark Productions -98-
Legend: Akane = Akane Kasuga Kurumi = Kurumi Kasuga Manami = Manami
Kasuga Muroke = Koji Muroke Shijama = Shijama Zumi Taku = Taku
Morisaki Shinohara = Shinohara Asuma Shun = Shun Kisaragi Hasegawa =
Hasegawa Kazuya
[] - denotes scene changes () - indicates person thinking to himself
(**) - indicates action or special effects.
Interlude: Chapter 8: Lingering Spirits
[Leaving off at the theater...]
Manami: What are you ding here?
Muroke: I was about to ask you the same question!
Kurumi: You two are so clumsy! You bump into each other too much.
Muroke: It's been a while.
Manami: Yes, it has been a while.
Akane: Manami! What are you doing fraternizing with the enemy?
Muroke: Enemy?
Akane: Let's go! I can't stand the sight of treacherous men.
Manami: But Akane...
(The 3 girls leave in a heap)
Taku: Who were those girls? Why were they making such a fuss?
Muroke: I don't know.
Kazuya: He he. You guys are such saps.
Taku: Excuse me, but do we know you?
Kazuya: (points to Muroke) He does.
#2/Muroke: Ah...yeah. You're that kid way back when you and the girls
teamed up against our group.
Kazuya: Very good, brain boy. Thanks man.
Muroke: For what?
Kazuya: Whatever you did to screw up their baka little club of theirs.
Especially when it pisses my big sister off. I love it when she's
mad. Say, it must be cool to be at an all-boys dorm.
Muroke: How do you know that?
Kazuya: Easy. I just read my sister...I mean I overheard them
talking. Can I drop by your place and hang out with you guys
sometimes?
Muroke: I guess that would ok. Let me write down the address for
you...
Kazuya: No need. I already know.
Kurumi: Kazuya! There you are. We've been looking for you. (shakes her
finger at Muroke and Taku) Look what you did! (grabs Kazuya's hand and
walks off)
Taku: This has been a very curious night experience for me.
Muroke: Tell me about it. I would like to say it's the first time that
has happen to me, but unfortunately, these sort of wacky things happen
to me on a frequent basis.
[Back in New York, at the Shubert Theater]
(Hikaru and Shuri, dressed in their leotards, awaiting their turns, on
the outskirts of the stage)
Shuri: (*Yawn*) So many girls here auditioning so early. Never seen
that before.
Hikaru: Word gets around.
Shuri: I'll say. Ya see the character profiles they passed out?
Hikaru: Yes. What's so strange about it?
Shuri: Virgin Maiden Princess? I don't think either of us would be
caught dead with that description.
Hikaru: It just the role. Besides, I heard that there will be long,
dance choreographies in this production.
Shuri: Only good for those who make it.
Hikaru: At least we will give it our best, right?
Shuri: Hai Hikaru! Hey, there's something different about what you're
wearing.
Hikaru: What? This is my normal outfit.
Shuri: Of course! But where's that cutsy toy you would attach to the
side.
Hikaru: You mean that? I decided not to bring it here for this time.
Shuri: But why?
Hikaru: No time! You're next!
Shuri: I'll get you later!
Hikaru: You wish! Go break a leg!
Shuri: HAI!
Hikaru: <This time, I'm going to do it for myself.>
[Back at Ryokurin Ryo "dorm" house]
(Shinohara and Shijama are busy cleaning up the mess on the second
floor.)
Shinohara: Curses!
Shun: You two better get this whole mess cleaned up by tonight.
Shinohara: (to Shijama) Those freshmen friends of yours. Find them.
Shun: You're a freshman also!
Shinohara: Leave us alone! I don't want to get tormented by someone
who LOOKS like a girl!
Shun: Fine! (storms off)
Shinohara: And you! (points to Shijama) You're friends. Where the hell
are they? Hey! Speak up!
Shijama: What is there to say? There are not here. That's that.
(Shun downstairs as Muroke and Taku comes in)
Shun: Hey you two! Just the people I want to see?
Taku: What seems to be the matter Kisaragi-san?
Shun: Trouble. That is, you two are in big trouble!
Muroke: Trouble? What did we do?
Shun: Don't you know? That monstrosity has filled the whole second
floor with soap bubbles! I never seen Suka-chan so mad before.
Taku: Are you talking about that machine?
Shun: That's precisely the device. And not only that. Not only do you
help to help the rest of the crew clean up the second floor, Hasukawa
has imposed an additional punishment because of the grave disturbance
to him. Because of today's incident, he has decreed that you 4 be
subjected to another month of cleaning for the month of November.
Muroke: That's grossly unfair! That robot wasn't our doing. It was
that crazy roommate of Zumi-kun. Shinohara's actions is a menace to
this house!
Shun: That's nothing you can do about the decision now. I can try to
talk to Hasukawa on your behalf. I'll try to get him to cut you all
some slack.
Muroke: Don't tell me; it interrupted his video game.
Shun: That's not the point.
Muroke: I think that is precisely the point. There's been some strange
things going on here in this house. From my odd experience the very
first day. Sure, I may be from a quiet place, but I still know it
ain't normal here. First, we have this distraught RA admin who doesn't
seem to care about anything here in this house except for his silly
video game. And Shijama has been spooked by the spook incidents. And
to top it off, he has this whacked out roommate. Someone gave me a
warning about this place and I'm beginning to believe it. There's
something going on here.
Shun: I'm sorry we haven't been more attentive or supportive. It has
been tough trying to adjust between the different levels of students
we have here. It is our first time being in charge. I hope both both
sides can give each other some leeway.
Muroke: I'm still mad!
Shun: Well, the only thing I can tell you is that I've takened
measures to take care of the wandering spirits here.
Taku: (whispers to Shun) Thank you Kisaragi-san. I think Muroke-san
needs some time to cool off.
[Back at the Twins house]
(The room is dimly lit, as Akane wears what seem to be a green army
headgear and wearing a tight green dress uniform. In her hand is a
baton)
Akane: Listen here people! We have a grave situation on our hands. We
have been waging a war against a faceless enemy, until now. Having
infiltrated their secret base, we now know who has been the mastermind
behind these nefarious attacks on our camp. This unholy boys house
presents a challenge to keep alive our infant movement for liberating
and empowering women everywhere in the country. They resist us because
they think we don't know any better; they try to put us down and in
our place. But we won't accept that anymore. Even as they try to
squash our movement, fearing our "dangerous ideas" we won't back down.
Kurumi: So what are we goin' to do? All this talk has gotten me
sleepy.
Akane: (voice crescendoing) You want to know what we're going to do?
You want to know what we're going to do? YOU WANT TO KNOW WHAT WE'RE
GOING TO DO?
Kurumi: Yeah what?
Akane: I'll tell you what we've going to do! We've going to march up
there and confront the enemy face to face!
Kurumi: Are we going to wrestle?
Manami: Kurumi-chan!
Akane: Whatever it takes, we'll do it!
[Back to Ryokurin Ryo]
(Shinohara and Muroke are in a heated exchange)
Shinohara: Get off my case, will ya? You're such a snot!
Muroke: Baka! You jerk! You've been the menace to the house!
Taku: Calm down Koji-san. You have to control your emotions.
Muroke: No, I won't calm down! I have been keeping this inside me too
long now. Me and the rest of this house had to put off with this
jerk's shenanigans. From riding that monstrosity of a cycle to
constructing those death-trap contraptions. You've been a lousy
tenant from the get-go. Am I right Zumi-kun?
Shijama: I don't feel like talking right now.
Muroke: How can you say that? You're the one who done most of the
complaining to me? What's wrong with you today? Why aren't you
speaking up now?
Shijama: I,...I cannot be sure. My head is all fuzzy now.
Muroke: Probably from all the smoke fumes that scrap-heap piece of
junk emitted when it malfunctioned.
Shinohara: How dare you insult my work!
"Who dares disturb my gaming!?"
Everyone: "Hasukawa-san!"
Hasukawa: You four have been the troublemakers in this house,
disturbing the quiet order that existed before. I want none of it! No
pranks, no practical jokes, no inventions, no anything to disturb the
peace here. I am sick and tired of it. Just plain, simple boring
here. Is that clear?
Muroke: (raising his voice to protest) But...
Hasukawa: I said is that clear?
Everyone: (voices in dejection) Yes.
(As Hasukawa leaves, Shun joins up with him)
Shun: You were mighty harsh on them!
Hasukawa: I hate crazy antics!
Shun: You mean, you hated the crazy antics of Mitsuru and
Shinobu-semapi.
Hasukawa: It isn't the same.
Shun: <Is it?>
[A few days later...]
[At the Ayukawa Mansion]
(Kyosuke is milling about in the Ayukawa mansion in his shorts and
t-shirt, and with a 3-day stubble. He looks like a slob.)
I was alone here all by myself now. Madoka had left for Seattle to
visit her parents. That was part of the arrangement, since we couldn't
be with her parents during the upcoming holidays. Incidentally, we
missed the premiere of the new play that night I saw Madoka off at
Narita airport, despite the annoying insistence of Hayakawa. I
wondered why Madoka chose not to attend; she could have rescheduled
her flight a day later. I asked her about it, but she wouldn't hear of
it. As if she wanted to avoid the whole thing for some reason. I was a
little disappointed in not being able to attend the debut opening,
despite my misgivings of the parties involved, including Haroken,
Hayakawa, and Nagasi. Perhaps it was the disappointment of Hikaru-chan
not being there. At least we could have heard the beautifully
choreographed music she composed.
(*Ding Dong*)
Kyosuke: Yukari-san! What are you doin here?
Yukari: Playing a visit to my future cousin-in-law. My, my- did you
forget to put on your PJ's?
K: Gomen. I wasn't expecting company.
Yukari: You sure look it. Still, you need to carry yourself better. Do
you want Madoka marrying a bum?
K: Now that's a bit harsh!
Yukari: (winks of him) Madoka did say you were gullible. You're lucky
I'm the one being mean to you! Shape up for Madoka, ok?
K: I will, I will. But while I'm still a bachelor, can't I enjoy my
precious few days left?
Yukari: No. That's what a woman is for.
K: I guess. (puts his hand behind his head) Is that why you came here?
Yukari: No. I just came by to pick up some materials Madoka left for
me. I am subbing for her at that conservatory.
K: Right. I almost forgot. (as he runs upstairs, he mutters to
himself: Man, this place is a mess. Yukari probably thinks I'm a big,
fat irresponsible slob.)
K: Here are the materials.
Yukari: Arrigatou! First right thing you did today. You'd better put
on something more decent before someone else scolds you for indecent
exposure. Ja!
K: That Yukari. She's really something. Guess I better start doing
something right by doing the laundry. (As he picks up his shirt, a
card falls out. Kyosuke picks it up) Aso, Tamaka. That reporter I
bumped into. I been meaning to pay her a visit. Guess now's a good a
time as any.
[At an office]
Kyosuke: (looks around in the small, humble-looking office) I wonder
if it is the right place here?
(out walks a woman speaking to several men at once)
"Make a copy of this and this for me. Schedule this segment for the 1
o'clock tomorrow. And get me this week's latest supermarket prices!"
Kyosuke: Anno...
"Ah! It's you!" (eyeglasses fall off the tip of her nose and her jaw
drops)
Kyosuke: I see that I've come at a bad time. I can come again at a
better time.
"No, no, no, no! Stay! Please! Don't go! I'll be with you in a
moment."
Kyosuke: Well ok. <I have time on my hands.>
(After a few moments)
"Gomen. I'm back. Thanks for stopping by." (sticks her hand out to
shake)
Kyosuke: I'm glad you still want to see me Aso-san. (cracks a smile)
How is your leg?
Aso Tamaki: You mean that little accident? Just a scratch. It takes a
lot more than that to stop Aso Tamaki from tackling the world out
there.
Kyosuke: It would seem so. Is this a bad time for you? If so, I really
can come back later for you to conduct that interview.
Aso: Are you kidding? You're story fascinates me! It is my job as a
reporter and my general keen interest to get down to the core of the
story, the details behind the man who survived the conflict in Bosnia.
Kyosuke: It wasn't that big of a deal, but I'll tell you as much as I
know.
Aso: That's all I ask. Use your own words. But first, let's find a
better place to conduct the interview. Please come with me, Mr Kasuga.
Kyosuke: <very formal, isn't she?>
(They enter what seems to be a lunch room)
Aso: I'm sorry for the spartan conditions here, but we're a small,
local operation, and we try to improvise as much as possible. There
isn't room for having my own separate office, so we use this area as a
multi-purpose room. I hope you don't mind these arrangements.
Kyosuke: Not at all. Has a cozy feel to it.
Aso: I'm glad to hear it. (picks up her yellow manilla pad and pen)
Let us begin!
[At the penthouse]
(Nagasi is fawning on the bed on all fours as a cat as she waits for
Ryusei)
Nagasi: "There you are honey bear," she cooed. "What took you so
long?"
Ryusei: I was speaking to a business associate while I was getting
ready. I'm afraid I'll have to cancel our night out.
Nagasi: That's no fair! You promised!
R: Now there. No use in throwing your childish temper tantrums.
Nagasi: If I want to throw my tantrums, I'll will! And you're so
insensitive. You know that is the only night I have off from the
play.
R: Yes, but you should also realize that without the business I'm in,
you wouldn't be able to wear all those fancy baubles on you.
Nagasi: You're only right on one account. I do love all the jewels
that I have.
R: As such with your makeup. But I do realize you gave a good
performance given the circumstances, and I am quite pleased. Now, the
only judge will be the finicky public.
Nagasi: If you're not taking me out tonight, then you owe me something
big.
R: As to be expected with all your requests.
Nagasi: Then I'll do whatever I want in granting myself the favor.
R: Go ahead. I'll be going now. Ja!
Nagasi: <You'll regret this Ryu!>
[Back at Ryokurin Ryo]
(Muroke is balancing a pile of tapes)
Muroke: Tonight's the big night!
Taku: It is?
Muroke: Yes! Have you forgotten already? I promised to introduce you
to the world of Star Trek. So tonight is a Trekker-a-thon! Where's
Shijama?
Taku: I thought he came back with you.
Muroke: No, I thought he came back earlier. Guess he must still be in
the labs. And on a Saturday. That's really too bad. He's an avid
Trekkie fan and it kill him to know that he was missing all the
action. But these tapes have to go back first thing tomorrow. So get
the bento boxes and drinks ready! It's going to be a long night.
"Woah!"
Muroke: What? Ah, Tatsuya-san. Sorry. Almost bumped into you.
Tatsuya Youta: Apology accepted. What are you holding?
Muroke: Bunch of tapes for a sci-fi show. Do you want to join us? Me
and Taku-san are going to the A/V room to watch.
Tatsuya: Can I bring my friends along?
Muroke: Sure! Bring as many of the underclassmen as you want. I'll be
happy to indoctrinate everyone to the wonders of Star Trek!
[Back in New York]
(Hikaru is on the phone)
Hikaru: Yes...what? You're not serious? You are? You mean I can come
in for the next round of tryouts? What? Am I alright? Yes, I am. I
just need a minute to catch my breath. Whew. Thank you so much! You
have a good night too. Bye, bye.
(Shuri comes in through the door)
Shuri: Hiya Hik! Wow, what's up with you?
Hikaru: What? Is there a problem?
Shuri: Y -ea- h! You seem to be beaming like a Christmas tree.
Hikaru: Is it that obvious?
Shuri: Yes,...which means, you must have gotten the call for the next
round of tryouts! Congratulations!
(they both scream and jump up and down)
Shuri: That's great! I'm happy for you.
Hikaru: Thanks. But you look pretty glum. Don't tell me that...
Shuri: Yeah. I got my call too. They told me that I didn't fit in with
their plans.
Hikaru: I'm so sorry to hear that. Now I feel so bad now...
Shuri: Now, now! Don't be a downer on account of me. I knew my chances
weren't good given what the part called for. My frame is too big for
what they were looking for. But in your case, it's perfect! You have
the small petite body they're looking for. I'm just glad one of us got
to go on to the next round.
Hikaru: But Shuri...
Shuri: And besides Hik. Your success is my success. Right? Now wipe
that gloomy face off and let's go celebrate 'kay?
(Hikaru nods)
[Back to Ryokurin Ryo dorm house]
Shun: What's is everyone gathered in here for?
"Some upperclassman is holding a video-a-thon as a good-will gesture
for both upper and lower classmen to get together."
Shun: That's a good idea!
"Shh. They're about to start!"
Muroke: Hello everyone of this house! I'm happy to have all of you
here in attendance. I hope you enjoy a glimpse into the science
fiction world of Star Trek.
(presses the 'Play' button. Everyone waits in anticipation as we hear
winding noises. Then it stop turning)
Muroke: What?
Shun: (walks over) I sorry Muroke-san. The VCR here is busted! It's
been inoperational for quite some time now. So it looks like no video
for tonight.
(groans and ahhs from the restless audience)
"Who says?"
(everyone turns their head to see Shinohara standing by the door
holding something)
Shinohara: Am I invited?
Muroke: Enough with the games Shino'-san. What do you want?
Shinohara: This event here picques my interest. I wish to participate.
Taku: Like how?
Shinohara: With this. (places down a brand-new Mitshibishi Super-VHS!)
(oohs and ahhs from the crowd)
Shinohara: Are you willing to use my machine to play your tapes?
Muroke: I don't know...
(crowd yells "yes, use it", "go for it")
Muroke: (swallows) Well, if it is the only working machine here, I
guess we must use whatever we can get. Arrigatou.
(everyone cheers!)
[The Dinner]
Kyosuke: Thank you for inviting me for dinner. It feels very awkward
being invited by a lady.
Aso: The pleasure is all mine. Is this place alright for you?
Kyosuke: It is. Been away far too long eating at those
"straight-laced" restaurants. This reminds me of my college days.
Aso: I am glad you like. Unagi Eel for you?
Kyosuke: Yes, that's fine.
Aso: (to waiter) I'll have the same. And bring your finest sake.
"Hai maam."
Aso: I'm really glad you came in to do the interview. Sorry it took so
long.
Kyosuke: I'm glad that I could be of help. Least I could do.
Aso; Was I the first to interview you?
Kyosuke: If you mean directly, then yes. I wrote up a transcript of my
experience there when I was working for TTV.
Aso: You worked at TTV?
Kyosuke: I used to. Not reporting, but just being the cameraman. I
guess having photographic abilities comes in handy for that type of
work.
Aso: That must be amazing. Our little station must pale in comparison
to it.
Kyosuke: It does have your typical full-array of broadcast equipment
and hierarchy that is followed as each instruction is dispatched down
the chain of command. Very direct and orderly.
Aso: I don't mean to intrude, but why aren't you working there now?
Kyosuke: I quit.
Aso: You did?
Kyosuke: Yes. I walked away. I realized that I wasn't nearly ready nor
mature enough for such a high-class operation they have there. I felt
that for the best interests of the station, I left.
Aso: That must be very noble of you.
Kyosuke: Might I ask you a personal question of my own?
Aso: You may. It's up to me to decide whether to respond or not.
Kyosuke: (chuckles) You certainly have that crafty reporter response
down pat. Which leads me to my question? How did you get interested
in wanting to be a newsreporter?
[Back to the media room in Ryokurin Ryo]
(intermission time, after 4 hours)
Muroke: What do you think so far?
Taku: A little out of the ordinary from the shows I seen before, but
it certain has a certain appeal to it.
Muroke: Yeah. I thought showing episodes of "The Next Generation"
would be in tune with the modern times. Another spinoff of the series
is called "Deep Space Nine". They have been showing that for a year
now. They also have an older series in the 1960's starring James
T. Kirk. The T stands for Tiberious. He's probably the most famous
figure in the Star Trek lore.
Taku: You certainly know your Trek Trivia.
Muroke: If you're impressed with that, you heard nothing yet. You know
the headquarters of Starfleet Command is in San Francisco. That's the
Golden Gate Bridge you see in the background for some of the
episodes. Supposedly, the reason Gene Roddenberry chose S.F. was
because it was the site of the creation of the United Nations. So he
thought it would be natural to create the United Federation of Planets
there also.
Taku: That sounds neat.
"I'm certainly not impressed."
Muroke: Shinohara-san! Now what do you want?
Shinohara: Contributing to your conversation, if I may. Personally, I
find the whole series to be deeply flawed. This whole Prime Directive
is total bunk.
Muroke: Who are you to say that?
Shinohara: I believe watching every episode of ST, ST:TNG, and DS9
qualifies me.
Muroke: What...? How can that be?
Shinohara: I pick up everything on my mini satellite dish. As I was
saying, the premise of Star Trek is flawed. Equality and equalness for
all! Total sham. Plain ideality idiotness. Will never happen.
Muroke: That's just your opinion. Plus there's going to a new Star
Trek Series being created called Star Trek Voyager. And a woman will
be the captain. What do you have to say about that?
Shinohara: It may be so. But her incompetence being a woman will doom
her crew. And another thing! You two owe me for the use of my VCR.
Muroke: What!? If I knew that, I would have never used it.
Shinohara: Gullible folk you are. Never will survive in the jungle
world out there. I'll collect my favor some other time. Ja ne!
Muroke: Argh! That Shinohara! (shakes his fist) How exasperating!
[At the Shin ABCB]
Komatsu: (covering partially the mouthpiece of his cellphone) Geez!
Could you quiet it down. People are try'n to do some work in here!
Izzy: I'm a zzz zorry.
Hatta: Great! You shouldn't have anything to mutter about. You were so
lucky to get to see your own play!
Izzy: Yezzz. Y'right. (*Hiccup*) All ze goody parts were cut out.
Komatsu: Goody parts? What goody parts?
Izzy: Y'know. Uze your imag'nation.
Komatsu: I've got a BIG imagination. Let's see, a cat strip tease? Or
you showed the cats doing it? Naked felines showgirls, I would pay to
see that!
Izzy: Noooooooo. Dis iz ze play, not a sexx zshow.
Hatta: Well, are you going to tell us or annoy us some more?
Izzy: I tellz you. Beg'ning with the parts. There waz su'pose to be 5
parts instead of 3. And last 3 hours instead of 2.
Komatsu: Way too long for me. Someone shoot me If I were to sit
through anything that long.
Izzy: Ze masterpiece cannot be rushed. They cut out my flashbacks of
the queen and her friend's friendship. And the sideplots of the
treachery. And the...
Hatta: Ok now. I think we've heard enough now.
(in crashes the Twins and Akane!)
Komatsu: Oh no! Here comes the terrible three-some!
Hatta: Hiya Kurumi and Manami-san!
Manami: Hi--
Akane: Hush Manami! No speaking to the enemy. I'll let it be known to
you 'boys' here that our club is preparing for an offensive
tomorrow. Let us be and let us drink with your disturbance.
Komatsu: Ah great! More kooky behavior.
[In the dorm room]
Taku: Koji-san.
Muroke: Yes?
Taku: Thanks for introducing me to Star Trek. I quite enjoyed the
experience.
Muroke: I'm glad you could enjoy it, despite Shinohara's best attempts
to ruin the night.
Taku: He has his issues to deal with. I was have this strange feeling.
Muroke: 'bout what?
Taku: That something bad is going to happen quite soon. Watching all
those instances of anomalies and phenomena occurring for those
episodes have triggered the feeling I have been having for some time.
Muroke: Don't be influenced by that; these special occurrences are
part of the plot.
Taku: No, I mean from my astronomical observations of the past weeks,
there seems to be a misalignment.
Muroke: You can't be serious?
Taku: I am quite serious. I not sure if you know this, but astronomy
and the study of the stars have been used throughout history as a
method to predict forecoming disasters. From floods to comets or
meteors or even earthquakes.
Muroke: I know. But those studies back then were purely speculative
and superstitious. You don't really thing that the alignment of the
planets has anything to do with casual events here?
Taku: I sure hope that I am wrong!
[The Next Day]
Muroke: (half-awake) Groan! Another day for cleaning.
Taku: (*Yawn*) Yes,...it is.
Muroke: Where's that Shinohara hanging about? And Shijama too?
Shinohara: HI MEN! LET'S GET THIS JOB DONE!
Muroke: (covering his ears) Not so louuuud! Why are you so alert and
hyper?
Shinohara: Lacking physical conditioning of your bodies is your
problem. Peak training has been my routine.
Muroke: Oh, so you exercise. Big deal.
Shun: Good news people! You guys don't have to clean today. We will
have another special type of "cleaning" today.
Taku: Can you explain?
"We shall have spiritual cleaning today!"
(We see a rather tall, good-looking man dressed in traditional
Japanese dress, with a blue sash under his arm)
Shun: Allow me to introduce one of the "alumni" of this house: Ikeda
Mitsuru-semapi!
Mitsuru: Hello young sacrifices!
Muroke: Say what?
Shun: (nervous laugh) Sempai is always the kidder. Always blurting out
weird things, right?
Mitsuru: (assuming an aristocratic pose and raising his hand in the
air) I don't fancy so; I was quite the model resident.
(Shun does a prat-fall)
Mitsuru: As for my mission here, I have walked all the way from my
humble temple to assist in ridding the demons from this shabby,
hell-hole of a house here.
Shun: It's only a few blocks away! And why are you ragging on the
building for?
Mitsuru: I thought I was complimenting it; I rather enjoyed its creaky
walls and leaky roof.
Shun: Come on Sempai! Now's the time to be serious!
Mitsuru: As you wish, young one. (puts his hand on Shun's forehead)
Shun: Aie! What are you doing?
Mitsuru: I'm scanning you for evil demons which may be hiding inside
you.
Shun: Baka! There's no evil spirit inside of me!
Mitsuru: (pauses for a while) Hmmmm,...you're right! You're clear.
Shun: There's got to be a better way to do this. You can't be touching
everyone's forehead.
Mitsuru: If you desire, I'll use the "device" then.
(plucks something out of his pack which resembles a Y shaped branch)
Shinohara: Get that out of my face!
Mitsuru: Hush! I'm am mediating with the surrounding spirits.
Taku: (whispers to Muroke) I think he's doing some ghostbusting
technique.
(Mitsuru stands to chant some funny incantation, and as he does this,
moves in a strange dance, pointing the sticks at each of the 4
boys. For each one, he moves the stick violently up and down.)
Mitsuru: I have found the source of the disharmony which exists.
Shun: You have? Where?
Mitsuru: Here. (points to each of the boys) Nice of you Shun-chan to
bring all the suspects all in one area.
Shinohara: What? What nonsense!
Mitsuru: Strange as the fates operate, it is true. You four are
upsetting the flow in this house.
Shun: Hmmmm, that might be true. They have presented some problems for
the RAs here.
Muroke: Hey! Whose side are you on anyway?
Mitsuru: Ah!
Shun: What now?
Mitsuru: I feel an even stronger force tugging at me. Even stronger
than these 4. Could be the head demon at work.
Shun: Where, where?
Mitsuru: (his stick lurches up and forward) I am being tugged to
another location. (starts to walk down the stairs)
Shun: You guys stay here while I track with Sempai, ok?
Shinohara: Do whatever you like.
(as Shun leaves, in enters Akane, Kurumi, and Manami!)
Muroke: Kasugas! What are you 3 doing here?
Akane: There's our culprit!
Muroke: What? Now what?
Akane: (dressed up in gang-like attire and pointing directly at
Muroke) Koji Muroke! I accuse you of being the mastermind behind the
several attempts to thwart our attempts to sabotage our meetings
advocating equality for women all over in Japan!
Muroke: That's not true!
Akane: How dare you try to lie to us! We shall punish you severely.
(As Kurumi and Akane converge on Muroke, we hear a strange laughter)
"Hahahahahaaaaa!"
Akane: That laugh...I heard it somewhere before...
Kurumi: Hey short stuff! Who is that guy laughing? (points)
Muroke: Him? Shinohara Asuma, one of the residents here.
Akane: YOU!
Shinohara: Yes. You seek me. Not that amateur. How stupid you women
are!
Akane: Why you! (clenches her fist)
Manami: Hold it Akane! (to Shinohara) What a rotten person you are!
You were going to let Muroke take the rap for this!
Shinohara: Ha! I am the head guy! He and my other lackeys in this dorm
only serve me. I take credit for our gang like any Japanese man would.
Taku: What is he talking about?
Manami: <No...that can't be true...>
Akane: Why you! (rushes him)
(just downstairs)
Mitsuru: Ah ha! Found it! In this room! The ultimate surge in
negative energy.
Shun: There? But that's where Suka...
(Mitsuru bursts in)
Hasukawa: Come on...just a few hits more in the final battle... Argh!
(Hasukawa sees Mitsuru who has just jumped in front of the TV with the
branch straying just a few inches from his throat)
Hasukawa: Gawd Mitsuru! What the hell are you doing here!?
Mitsuru: Nice to see you too, Ya-kun. Too bad you the repositary of
the ultimate evil!
Shun: What? Really? You mean like in the 'Exorcist?'
Mitsuru: I'm afraid so.
Hasukawa: What utter nonsense! Stop this charade! This is not funny.
Mitsuru: Alas, I wish I was jesting.
Shun: What has to be done, sempai?
Mitsuru: Oh, the cure is very painful. First, he has to be stripped of
all his clothes, including underwear. Then he has to be drenched in
vinegar. After the soaking, he must be placed in a vat of mud from
the local pond. And then...
Hasukawa: I've heard enough! I'm leaving!
Shun: Hey wait up!
Hasukawa: Geez! What's that noise upstairs?
(on the 3rd floor)
(Akane tries to punch Shinohara, but he instead catches her fist. As
they are struggling...)
Kurumi: Don't worry Akane! Here I come!
(As Kurumi launches into his Super-Duper Kurumi leg twist...)
Shinohara: Oww!
(his legs fall from under him as he is chopped from the back by Shun!
(*SMASHHHHHHHHHHHHH!*)
(As Akane ducks and Shinohara falls, Kurumi's blow lands right on
Hasukawa who just came up from behind Shinohara!)
[At Actors College Dance Studio]
Instructor: That's it people! Take 5. Good workout today!
(As the people are about to scatter and leave)
Instructor: Miss Hayama! Please come here for a moment.
Hikaru: (whispers to Shuri) What does he want to talk to me for?
Shuri: (shrugs her shoulders) Beats me.
Hikaru: What is the matter sir?
Instructor: Please stand where you are. I believe the class has
something to tell you.
Hikaru: Huh?
(The people who were pretending to leave instead form a circle with
Hikaru in the center. They are interlock their arms and start kicking
their legs up high in the air like the Rockettes. And they in
unison...)
Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday
our dear STAR-CHAN! Happy Birthday to you! Knock 'em dead at
the tryout!
(Wild cheers and laughter erupt, with Hikaru standing in the middle,
still shocked and blushing)
H: <Star-Chan? How did they know?>
[End of Chapter]
Sorry I screwed up the title post for Chapter 5. I forgot to add 'Book
C' to it. I've also put back the funny looking 'K' in the title post.
There is actually a reason for that. I let you all mull over it.
And now, here's Book C Chapter 8: Lingering Spirits.
-------------------------------------------------------------
H A R D
|< O R
interlude Edition
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
ver 1.0
Finished 12-12-98
Based on characters from the Kimagure Orange Road Series created by
the venerable Matsumoto Izumi.
As you can see, this is fanfiction harkening back to the old Kimagure
Orange Orange Road Series. In the Prelude edition, it outlines the
events following the breakup of Hikaru and Kyousuke which sets the
stage for Shin Kor and HARD Kor series. These stories were written in
the attempt to clarify certain details assumed and to provide clues
for future Hard Kor episodes. Book A and Book B chapters provides the
events after Shin Kor I. This Book C will bridge the gap between Shin
Kor II and Shin Kor III.
HardKor Web Site (With Disclaimer and back-stories: Book A and Book B
chapters) http://www-ucsee.eecs.berkeley.edu/~rk/HardKor.html
My SuperPage for the General Kimagure Orange Road enthusiast
http://www-ucsee.eecs.berkeley.edu/~rk/Kor.html
My contact email address for comments or further correspondence:
rk@soda.berkeley.edu
Thanks for reading my stories and making it one the most popular KOR
fanfic on the web! (32000 can't be wrong!)I hope you enjoy reading it
as I did writing it. Thanks again. Robert Kwong Ark Productions -98-
Legend: Akane = Akane Kasuga Kurumi = Kurumi Kasuga Manami = Manami
Kasuga Muroke = Koji Muroke Shijama = Shijama Zumi Taku = Taku
Morisaki Shinohara = Shinohara Asuma Shun = Shun Kisaragi Hasegawa =
Hasegawa Kazuya
[] - denotes scene changes () - indicates person thinking to himself
(**) - indicates action or special effects.
Interlude: Chapter 8: Lingering Spirits
[Leaving off at the theater...]
Manami: What are you ding here?
Muroke: I was about to ask you the same question!
Kurumi: You two are so clumsy! You bump into each other too much.
Muroke: It's been a while.
Manami: Yes, it has been a while.
Akane: Manami! What are you doing fraternizing with the enemy?
Muroke: Enemy?
Akane: Let's go! I can't stand the sight of treacherous men.
Manami: But Akane...
(The 3 girls leave in a heap)
Taku: Who were those girls? Why were they making such a fuss?
Muroke: I don't know.
Kazuya: He he. You guys are such saps.
Taku: Excuse me, but do we know you?
Kazuya: (points to Muroke) He does.
#2/Muroke: Ah...yeah. You're that kid way back when you and the girls
teamed up against our group.
Kazuya: Very good, brain boy. Thanks man.
Muroke: For what?
Kazuya: Whatever you did to screw up their baka little club of theirs.
Especially when it pisses my big sister off. I love it when she's
mad. Say, it must be cool to be at an all-boys dorm.
Muroke: How do you know that?
Kazuya: Easy. I just read my sister...I mean I overheard them
talking. Can I drop by your place and hang out with you guys
sometimes?
Muroke: I guess that would ok. Let me write down the address for
you...
Kazuya: No need. I already know.
Kurumi: Kazuya! There you are. We've been looking for you. (shakes her
finger at Muroke and Taku) Look what you did! (grabs Kazuya's hand and
walks off)
Taku: This has been a very curious night experience for me.
Muroke: Tell me about it. I would like to say it's the first time that
has happen to me, but unfortunately, these sort of wacky things happen
to me on a frequent basis.
[Back in New York, at the Shubert Theater]
(Hikaru and Shuri, dressed in their leotards, awaiting their turns, on
the outskirts of the stage)
Shuri: (*Yawn*) So many girls here auditioning so early. Never seen
that before.
Hikaru: Word gets around.
Shuri: I'll say. Ya see the character profiles they passed out?
Hikaru: Yes. What's so strange about it?
Shuri: Virgin Maiden Princess? I don't think either of us would be
caught dead with that description.
Hikaru: It just the role. Besides, I heard that there will be long,
dance choreographies in this production.
Shuri: Only good for those who make it.
Hikaru: At least we will give it our best, right?
Shuri: Hai Hikaru! Hey, there's something different about what you're
wearing.
Hikaru: What? This is my normal outfit.
Shuri: Of course! But where's that cutsy toy you would attach to the
side.
Hikaru: You mean that? I decided not to bring it here for this time.
Shuri: But why?
Hikaru: No time! You're next!
Shuri: I'll get you later!
Hikaru: You wish! Go break a leg!
Shuri: HAI!
Hikaru: <This time, I'm going to do it for myself.>
[Back at Ryokurin Ryo "dorm" house]
(Shinohara and Shijama are busy cleaning up the mess on the second
floor.)
Shinohara: Curses!
Shun: You two better get this whole mess cleaned up by tonight.
Shinohara: (to Shijama) Those freshmen friends of yours. Find them.
Shun: You're a freshman also!
Shinohara: Leave us alone! I don't want to get tormented by someone
who LOOKS like a girl!
Shun: Fine! (storms off)
Shinohara: And you! (points to Shijama) You're friends. Where the hell
are they? Hey! Speak up!
Shijama: What is there to say? There are not here. That's that.
(Shun downstairs as Muroke and Taku comes in)
Shun: Hey you two! Just the people I want to see?
Taku: What seems to be the matter Kisaragi-san?
Shun: Trouble. That is, you two are in big trouble!
Muroke: Trouble? What did we do?
Shun: Don't you know? That monstrosity has filled the whole second
floor with soap bubbles! I never seen Suka-chan so mad before.
Taku: Are you talking about that machine?
Shun: That's precisely the device. And not only that. Not only do you
help to help the rest of the crew clean up the second floor, Hasukawa
has imposed an additional punishment because of the grave disturbance
to him. Because of today's incident, he has decreed that you 4 be
subjected to another month of cleaning for the month of November.
Muroke: That's grossly unfair! That robot wasn't our doing. It was
that crazy roommate of Zumi-kun. Shinohara's actions is a menace to
this house!
Shun: That's nothing you can do about the decision now. I can try to
talk to Hasukawa on your behalf. I'll try to get him to cut you all
some slack.
Muroke: Don't tell me; it interrupted his video game.
Shun: That's not the point.
Muroke: I think that is precisely the point. There's been some strange
things going on here in this house. From my odd experience the very
first day. Sure, I may be from a quiet place, but I still know it
ain't normal here. First, we have this distraught RA admin who doesn't
seem to care about anything here in this house except for his silly
video game. And Shijama has been spooked by the spook incidents. And
to top it off, he has this whacked out roommate. Someone gave me a
warning about this place and I'm beginning to believe it. There's
something going on here.
Shun: I'm sorry we haven't been more attentive or supportive. It has
been tough trying to adjust between the different levels of students
we have here. It is our first time being in charge. I hope both both
sides can give each other some leeway.
Muroke: I'm still mad!
Shun: Well, the only thing I can tell you is that I've takened
measures to take care of the wandering spirits here.
Taku: (whispers to Shun) Thank you Kisaragi-san. I think Muroke-san
needs some time to cool off.
[Back at the Twins house]
(The room is dimly lit, as Akane wears what seem to be a green army
headgear and wearing a tight green dress uniform. In her hand is a
baton)
Akane: Listen here people! We have a grave situation on our hands. We
have been waging a war against a faceless enemy, until now. Having
infiltrated their secret base, we now know who has been the mastermind
behind these nefarious attacks on our camp. This unholy boys house
presents a challenge to keep alive our infant movement for liberating
and empowering women everywhere in the country. They resist us because
they think we don't know any better; they try to put us down and in
our place. But we won't accept that anymore. Even as they try to
squash our movement, fearing our "dangerous ideas" we won't back down.
Kurumi: So what are we goin' to do? All this talk has gotten me
sleepy.
Akane: (voice crescendoing) You want to know what we're going to do?
You want to know what we're going to do? YOU WANT TO KNOW WHAT WE'RE
GOING TO DO?
Kurumi: Yeah what?
Akane: I'll tell you what we've going to do! We've going to march up
there and confront the enemy face to face!
Kurumi: Are we going to wrestle?
Manami: Kurumi-chan!
Akane: Whatever it takes, we'll do it!
[Back to Ryokurin Ryo]
(Shinohara and Muroke are in a heated exchange)
Shinohara: Get off my case, will ya? You're such a snot!
Muroke: Baka! You jerk! You've been the menace to the house!
Taku: Calm down Koji-san. You have to control your emotions.
Muroke: No, I won't calm down! I have been keeping this inside me too
long now. Me and the rest of this house had to put off with this
jerk's shenanigans. From riding that monstrosity of a cycle to
constructing those death-trap contraptions. You've been a lousy
tenant from the get-go. Am I right Zumi-kun?
Shijama: I don't feel like talking right now.
Muroke: How can you say that? You're the one who done most of the
complaining to me? What's wrong with you today? Why aren't you
speaking up now?
Shijama: I,...I cannot be sure. My head is all fuzzy now.
Muroke: Probably from all the smoke fumes that scrap-heap piece of
junk emitted when it malfunctioned.
Shinohara: How dare you insult my work!
"Who dares disturb my gaming!?"
Everyone: "Hasukawa-san!"
Hasukawa: You four have been the troublemakers in this house,
disturbing the quiet order that existed before. I want none of it! No
pranks, no practical jokes, no inventions, no anything to disturb the
peace here. I am sick and tired of it. Just plain, simple boring
here. Is that clear?
Muroke: (raising his voice to protest) But...
Hasukawa: I said is that clear?
Everyone: (voices in dejection) Yes.
(As Hasukawa leaves, Shun joins up with him)
Shun: You were mighty harsh on them!
Hasukawa: I hate crazy antics!
Shun: You mean, you hated the crazy antics of Mitsuru and
Shinobu-semapi.
Hasukawa: It isn't the same.
Shun: <Is it?>
[A few days later...]
[At the Ayukawa Mansion]
(Kyosuke is milling about in the Ayukawa mansion in his shorts and
t-shirt, and with a 3-day stubble. He looks like a slob.)
I was alone here all by myself now. Madoka had left for Seattle to
visit her parents. That was part of the arrangement, since we couldn't
be with her parents during the upcoming holidays. Incidentally, we
missed the premiere of the new play that night I saw Madoka off at
Narita airport, despite the annoying insistence of Hayakawa. I
wondered why Madoka chose not to attend; she could have rescheduled
her flight a day later. I asked her about it, but she wouldn't hear of
it. As if she wanted to avoid the whole thing for some reason. I was a
little disappointed in not being able to attend the debut opening,
despite my misgivings of the parties involved, including Haroken,
Hayakawa, and Nagasi. Perhaps it was the disappointment of Hikaru-chan
not being there. At least we could have heard the beautifully
choreographed music she composed.
(*Ding Dong*)
Kyosuke: Yukari-san! What are you doin here?
Yukari: Playing a visit to my future cousin-in-law. My, my- did you
forget to put on your PJ's?
K: Gomen. I wasn't expecting company.
Yukari: You sure look it. Still, you need to carry yourself better. Do
you want Madoka marrying a bum?
K: Now that's a bit harsh!
Yukari: (winks of him) Madoka did say you were gullible. You're lucky
I'm the one being mean to you! Shape up for Madoka, ok?
K: I will, I will. But while I'm still a bachelor, can't I enjoy my
precious few days left?
Yukari: No. That's what a woman is for.
K: I guess. (puts his hand behind his head) Is that why you came here?
Yukari: No. I just came by to pick up some materials Madoka left for
me. I am subbing for her at that conservatory.
K: Right. I almost forgot. (as he runs upstairs, he mutters to
himself: Man, this place is a mess. Yukari probably thinks I'm a big,
fat irresponsible slob.)
K: Here are the materials.
Yukari: Arrigatou! First right thing you did today. You'd better put
on something more decent before someone else scolds you for indecent
exposure. Ja!
K: That Yukari. She's really something. Guess I better start doing
something right by doing the laundry. (As he picks up his shirt, a
card falls out. Kyosuke picks it up) Aso, Tamaka. That reporter I
bumped into. I been meaning to pay her a visit. Guess now's a good a
time as any.
[At an office]
Kyosuke: (looks around in the small, humble-looking office) I wonder
if it is the right place here?
(out walks a woman speaking to several men at once)
"Make a copy of this and this for me. Schedule this segment for the 1
o'clock tomorrow. And get me this week's latest supermarket prices!"
Kyosuke: Anno...
"Ah! It's you!" (eyeglasses fall off the tip of her nose and her jaw
drops)
Kyosuke: I see that I've come at a bad time. I can come again at a
better time.
"No, no, no, no! Stay! Please! Don't go! I'll be with you in a
moment."
Kyosuke: Well ok. <I have time on my hands.>
(After a few moments)
"Gomen. I'm back. Thanks for stopping by." (sticks her hand out to
shake)
Kyosuke: I'm glad you still want to see me Aso-san. (cracks a smile)
How is your leg?
Aso Tamaki: You mean that little accident? Just a scratch. It takes a
lot more than that to stop Aso Tamaki from tackling the world out
there.
Kyosuke: It would seem so. Is this a bad time for you? If so, I really
can come back later for you to conduct that interview.
Aso: Are you kidding? You're story fascinates me! It is my job as a
reporter and my general keen interest to get down to the core of the
story, the details behind the man who survived the conflict in Bosnia.
Kyosuke: It wasn't that big of a deal, but I'll tell you as much as I
know.
Aso: That's all I ask. Use your own words. But first, let's find a
better place to conduct the interview. Please come with me, Mr Kasuga.
Kyosuke: <very formal, isn't she?>
(They enter what seems to be a lunch room)
Aso: I'm sorry for the spartan conditions here, but we're a small,
local operation, and we try to improvise as much as possible. There
isn't room for having my own separate office, so we use this area as a
multi-purpose room. I hope you don't mind these arrangements.
Kyosuke: Not at all. Has a cozy feel to it.
Aso: I'm glad to hear it. (picks up her yellow manilla pad and pen)
Let us begin!
[At the penthouse]
(Nagasi is fawning on the bed on all fours as a cat as she waits for
Ryusei)
Nagasi: "There you are honey bear," she cooed. "What took you so
long?"
Ryusei: I was speaking to a business associate while I was getting
ready. I'm afraid I'll have to cancel our night out.
Nagasi: That's no fair! You promised!
R: Now there. No use in throwing your childish temper tantrums.
Nagasi: If I want to throw my tantrums, I'll will! And you're so
insensitive. You know that is the only night I have off from the
play.
R: Yes, but you should also realize that without the business I'm in,
you wouldn't be able to wear all those fancy baubles on you.
Nagasi: You're only right on one account. I do love all the jewels
that I have.
R: As such with your makeup. But I do realize you gave a good
performance given the circumstances, and I am quite pleased. Now, the
only judge will be the finicky public.
Nagasi: If you're not taking me out tonight, then you owe me something
big.
R: As to be expected with all your requests.
Nagasi: Then I'll do whatever I want in granting myself the favor.
R: Go ahead. I'll be going now. Ja!
Nagasi: <You'll regret this Ryu!>
[Back at Ryokurin Ryo]
(Muroke is balancing a pile of tapes)
Muroke: Tonight's the big night!
Taku: It is?
Muroke: Yes! Have you forgotten already? I promised to introduce you
to the world of Star Trek. So tonight is a Trekker-a-thon! Where's
Shijama?
Taku: I thought he came back with you.
Muroke: No, I thought he came back earlier. Guess he must still be in
the labs. And on a Saturday. That's really too bad. He's an avid
Trekkie fan and it kill him to know that he was missing all the
action. But these tapes have to go back first thing tomorrow. So get
the bento boxes and drinks ready! It's going to be a long night.
"Woah!"
Muroke: What? Ah, Tatsuya-san. Sorry. Almost bumped into you.
Tatsuya Youta: Apology accepted. What are you holding?
Muroke: Bunch of tapes for a sci-fi show. Do you want to join us? Me
and Taku-san are going to the A/V room to watch.
Tatsuya: Can I bring my friends along?
Muroke: Sure! Bring as many of the underclassmen as you want. I'll be
happy to indoctrinate everyone to the wonders of Star Trek!
[Back in New York]
(Hikaru is on the phone)
Hikaru: Yes...what? You're not serious? You are? You mean I can come
in for the next round of tryouts? What? Am I alright? Yes, I am. I
just need a minute to catch my breath. Whew. Thank you so much! You
have a good night too. Bye, bye.
(Shuri comes in through the door)
Shuri: Hiya Hik! Wow, what's up with you?
Hikaru: What? Is there a problem?
Shuri: Y -ea- h! You seem to be beaming like a Christmas tree.
Hikaru: Is it that obvious?
Shuri: Yes,...which means, you must have gotten the call for the next
round of tryouts! Congratulations!
(they both scream and jump up and down)
Shuri: That's great! I'm happy for you.
Hikaru: Thanks. But you look pretty glum. Don't tell me that...
Shuri: Yeah. I got my call too. They told me that I didn't fit in with
their plans.
Hikaru: I'm so sorry to hear that. Now I feel so bad now...
Shuri: Now, now! Don't be a downer on account of me. I knew my chances
weren't good given what the part called for. My frame is too big for
what they were looking for. But in your case, it's perfect! You have
the small petite body they're looking for. I'm just glad one of us got
to go on to the next round.
Hikaru: But Shuri...
Shuri: And besides Hik. Your success is my success. Right? Now wipe
that gloomy face off and let's go celebrate 'kay?
(Hikaru nods)
[Back to Ryokurin Ryo dorm house]
Shun: What's is everyone gathered in here for?
"Some upperclassman is holding a video-a-thon as a good-will gesture
for both upper and lower classmen to get together."
Shun: That's a good idea!
"Shh. They're about to start!"
Muroke: Hello everyone of this house! I'm happy to have all of you
here in attendance. I hope you enjoy a glimpse into the science
fiction world of Star Trek.
(presses the 'Play' button. Everyone waits in anticipation as we hear
winding noises. Then it stop turning)
Muroke: What?
Shun: (walks over) I sorry Muroke-san. The VCR here is busted! It's
been inoperational for quite some time now. So it looks like no video
for tonight.
(groans and ahhs from the restless audience)
"Who says?"
(everyone turns their head to see Shinohara standing by the door
holding something)
Shinohara: Am I invited?
Muroke: Enough with the games Shino'-san. What do you want?
Shinohara: This event here picques my interest. I wish to participate.
Taku: Like how?
Shinohara: With this. (places down a brand-new Mitshibishi Super-VHS!)
(oohs and ahhs from the crowd)
Shinohara: Are you willing to use my machine to play your tapes?
Muroke: I don't know...
(crowd yells "yes, use it", "go for it")
Muroke: (swallows) Well, if it is the only working machine here, I
guess we must use whatever we can get. Arrigatou.
(everyone cheers!)
[The Dinner]
Kyosuke: Thank you for inviting me for dinner. It feels very awkward
being invited by a lady.
Aso: The pleasure is all mine. Is this place alright for you?
Kyosuke: It is. Been away far too long eating at those
"straight-laced" restaurants. This reminds me of my college days.
Aso: I am glad you like. Unagi Eel for you?
Kyosuke: Yes, that's fine.
Aso: (to waiter) I'll have the same. And bring your finest sake.
"Hai maam."
Aso: I'm really glad you came in to do the interview. Sorry it took so
long.
Kyosuke: I'm glad that I could be of help. Least I could do.
Aso; Was I the first to interview you?
Kyosuke: If you mean directly, then yes. I wrote up a transcript of my
experience there when I was working for TTV.
Aso: You worked at TTV?
Kyosuke: I used to. Not reporting, but just being the cameraman. I
guess having photographic abilities comes in handy for that type of
work.
Aso: That must be amazing. Our little station must pale in comparison
to it.
Kyosuke: It does have your typical full-array of broadcast equipment
and hierarchy that is followed as each instruction is dispatched down
the chain of command. Very direct and orderly.
Aso: I don't mean to intrude, but why aren't you working there now?
Kyosuke: I quit.
Aso: You did?
Kyosuke: Yes. I walked away. I realized that I wasn't nearly ready nor
mature enough for such a high-class operation they have there. I felt
that for the best interests of the station, I left.
Aso: That must be very noble of you.
Kyosuke: Might I ask you a personal question of my own?
Aso: You may. It's up to me to decide whether to respond or not.
Kyosuke: (chuckles) You certainly have that crafty reporter response
down pat. Which leads me to my question? How did you get interested
in wanting to be a newsreporter?
[Back to the media room in Ryokurin Ryo]
(intermission time, after 4 hours)
Muroke: What do you think so far?
Taku: A little out of the ordinary from the shows I seen before, but
it certain has a certain appeal to it.
Muroke: Yeah. I thought showing episodes of "The Next Generation"
would be in tune with the modern times. Another spinoff of the series
is called "Deep Space Nine". They have been showing that for a year
now. They also have an older series in the 1960's starring James
T. Kirk. The T stands for Tiberious. He's probably the most famous
figure in the Star Trek lore.
Taku: You certainly know your Trek Trivia.
Muroke: If you're impressed with that, you heard nothing yet. You know
the headquarters of Starfleet Command is in San Francisco. That's the
Golden Gate Bridge you see in the background for some of the
episodes. Supposedly, the reason Gene Roddenberry chose S.F. was
because it was the site of the creation of the United Nations. So he
thought it would be natural to create the United Federation of Planets
there also.
Taku: That sounds neat.
"I'm certainly not impressed."
Muroke: Shinohara-san! Now what do you want?
Shinohara: Contributing to your conversation, if I may. Personally, I
find the whole series to be deeply flawed. This whole Prime Directive
is total bunk.
Muroke: Who are you to say that?
Shinohara: I believe watching every episode of ST, ST:TNG, and DS9
qualifies me.
Muroke: What...? How can that be?
Shinohara: I pick up everything on my mini satellite dish. As I was
saying, the premise of Star Trek is flawed. Equality and equalness for
all! Total sham. Plain ideality idiotness. Will never happen.
Muroke: That's just your opinion. Plus there's going to a new Star
Trek Series being created called Star Trek Voyager. And a woman will
be the captain. What do you have to say about that?
Shinohara: It may be so. But her incompetence being a woman will doom
her crew. And another thing! You two owe me for the use of my VCR.
Muroke: What!? If I knew that, I would have never used it.
Shinohara: Gullible folk you are. Never will survive in the jungle
world out there. I'll collect my favor some other time. Ja ne!
Muroke: Argh! That Shinohara! (shakes his fist) How exasperating!
[At the Shin ABCB]
Komatsu: (covering partially the mouthpiece of his cellphone) Geez!
Could you quiet it down. People are try'n to do some work in here!
Izzy: I'm a zzz zorry.
Hatta: Great! You shouldn't have anything to mutter about. You were so
lucky to get to see your own play!
Izzy: Yezzz. Y'right. (*Hiccup*) All ze goody parts were cut out.
Komatsu: Goody parts? What goody parts?
Izzy: Y'know. Uze your imag'nation.
Komatsu: I've got a BIG imagination. Let's see, a cat strip tease? Or
you showed the cats doing it? Naked felines showgirls, I would pay to
see that!
Izzy: Noooooooo. Dis iz ze play, not a sexx zshow.
Hatta: Well, are you going to tell us or annoy us some more?
Izzy: I tellz you. Beg'ning with the parts. There waz su'pose to be 5
parts instead of 3. And last 3 hours instead of 2.
Komatsu: Way too long for me. Someone shoot me If I were to sit
through anything that long.
Izzy: Ze masterpiece cannot be rushed. They cut out my flashbacks of
the queen and her friend's friendship. And the sideplots of the
treachery. And the...
Hatta: Ok now. I think we've heard enough now.
(in crashes the Twins and Akane!)
Komatsu: Oh no! Here comes the terrible three-some!
Hatta: Hiya Kurumi and Manami-san!
Manami: Hi--
Akane: Hush Manami! No speaking to the enemy. I'll let it be known to
you 'boys' here that our club is preparing for an offensive
tomorrow. Let us be and let us drink with your disturbance.
Komatsu: Ah great! More kooky behavior.
[In the dorm room]
Taku: Koji-san.
Muroke: Yes?
Taku: Thanks for introducing me to Star Trek. I quite enjoyed the
experience.
Muroke: I'm glad you could enjoy it, despite Shinohara's best attempts
to ruin the night.
Taku: He has his issues to deal with. I was have this strange feeling.
Muroke: 'bout what?
Taku: That something bad is going to happen quite soon. Watching all
those instances of anomalies and phenomena occurring for those
episodes have triggered the feeling I have been having for some time.
Muroke: Don't be influenced by that; these special occurrences are
part of the plot.
Taku: No, I mean from my astronomical observations of the past weeks,
there seems to be a misalignment.
Muroke: You can't be serious?
Taku: I am quite serious. I not sure if you know this, but astronomy
and the study of the stars have been used throughout history as a
method to predict forecoming disasters. From floods to comets or
meteors or even earthquakes.
Muroke: I know. But those studies back then were purely speculative
and superstitious. You don't really thing that the alignment of the
planets has anything to do with casual events here?
Taku: I sure hope that I am wrong!
[The Next Day]
Muroke: (half-awake) Groan! Another day for cleaning.
Taku: (*Yawn*) Yes,...it is.
Muroke: Where's that Shinohara hanging about? And Shijama too?
Shinohara: HI MEN! LET'S GET THIS JOB DONE!
Muroke: (covering his ears) Not so louuuud! Why are you so alert and
hyper?
Shinohara: Lacking physical conditioning of your bodies is your
problem. Peak training has been my routine.
Muroke: Oh, so you exercise. Big deal.
Shun: Good news people! You guys don't have to clean today. We will
have another special type of "cleaning" today.
Taku: Can you explain?
"We shall have spiritual cleaning today!"
(We see a rather tall, good-looking man dressed in traditional
Japanese dress, with a blue sash under his arm)
Shun: Allow me to introduce one of the "alumni" of this house: Ikeda
Mitsuru-semapi!
Mitsuru: Hello young sacrifices!
Muroke: Say what?
Shun: (nervous laugh) Sempai is always the kidder. Always blurting out
weird things, right?
Mitsuru: (assuming an aristocratic pose and raising his hand in the
air) I don't fancy so; I was quite the model resident.
(Shun does a prat-fall)
Mitsuru: As for my mission here, I have walked all the way from my
humble temple to assist in ridding the demons from this shabby,
hell-hole of a house here.
Shun: It's only a few blocks away! And why are you ragging on the
building for?
Mitsuru: I thought I was complimenting it; I rather enjoyed its creaky
walls and leaky roof.
Shun: Come on Sempai! Now's the time to be serious!
Mitsuru: As you wish, young one. (puts his hand on Shun's forehead)
Shun: Aie! What are you doing?
Mitsuru: I'm scanning you for evil demons which may be hiding inside
you.
Shun: Baka! There's no evil spirit inside of me!
Mitsuru: (pauses for a while) Hmmmm,...you're right! You're clear.
Shun: There's got to be a better way to do this. You can't be touching
everyone's forehead.
Mitsuru: If you desire, I'll use the "device" then.
(plucks something out of his pack which resembles a Y shaped branch)
Shinohara: Get that out of my face!
Mitsuru: Hush! I'm am mediating with the surrounding spirits.
Taku: (whispers to Muroke) I think he's doing some ghostbusting
technique.
(Mitsuru stands to chant some funny incantation, and as he does this,
moves in a strange dance, pointing the sticks at each of the 4
boys. For each one, he moves the stick violently up and down.)
Mitsuru: I have found the source of the disharmony which exists.
Shun: You have? Where?
Mitsuru: Here. (points to each of the boys) Nice of you Shun-chan to
bring all the suspects all in one area.
Shinohara: What? What nonsense!
Mitsuru: Strange as the fates operate, it is true. You four are
upsetting the flow in this house.
Shun: Hmmmm, that might be true. They have presented some problems for
the RAs here.
Muroke: Hey! Whose side are you on anyway?
Mitsuru: Ah!
Shun: What now?
Mitsuru: I feel an even stronger force tugging at me. Even stronger
than these 4. Could be the head demon at work.
Shun: Where, where?
Mitsuru: (his stick lurches up and forward) I am being tugged to
another location. (starts to walk down the stairs)
Shun: You guys stay here while I track with Sempai, ok?
Shinohara: Do whatever you like.
(as Shun leaves, in enters Akane, Kurumi, and Manami!)
Muroke: Kasugas! What are you 3 doing here?
Akane: There's our culprit!
Muroke: What? Now what?
Akane: (dressed up in gang-like attire and pointing directly at
Muroke) Koji Muroke! I accuse you of being the mastermind behind the
several attempts to thwart our attempts to sabotage our meetings
advocating equality for women all over in Japan!
Muroke: That's not true!
Akane: How dare you try to lie to us! We shall punish you severely.
(As Kurumi and Akane converge on Muroke, we hear a strange laughter)
"Hahahahahaaaaa!"
Akane: That laugh...I heard it somewhere before...
Kurumi: Hey short stuff! Who is that guy laughing? (points)
Muroke: Him? Shinohara Asuma, one of the residents here.
Akane: YOU!
Shinohara: Yes. You seek me. Not that amateur. How stupid you women
are!
Akane: Why you! (clenches her fist)
Manami: Hold it Akane! (to Shinohara) What a rotten person you are!
You were going to let Muroke take the rap for this!
Shinohara: Ha! I am the head guy! He and my other lackeys in this dorm
only serve me. I take credit for our gang like any Japanese man would.
Taku: What is he talking about?
Manami: <No...that can't be true...>
Akane: Why you! (rushes him)
(just downstairs)
Mitsuru: Ah ha! Found it! In this room! The ultimate surge in
negative energy.
Shun: There? But that's where Suka...
(Mitsuru bursts in)
Hasukawa: Come on...just a few hits more in the final battle... Argh!
(Hasukawa sees Mitsuru who has just jumped in front of the TV with the
branch straying just a few inches from his throat)
Hasukawa: Gawd Mitsuru! What the hell are you doing here!?
Mitsuru: Nice to see you too, Ya-kun. Too bad you the repositary of
the ultimate evil!
Shun: What? Really? You mean like in the 'Exorcist?'
Mitsuru: I'm afraid so.
Hasukawa: What utter nonsense! Stop this charade! This is not funny.
Mitsuru: Alas, I wish I was jesting.
Shun: What has to be done, sempai?
Mitsuru: Oh, the cure is very painful. First, he has to be stripped of
all his clothes, including underwear. Then he has to be drenched in
vinegar. After the soaking, he must be placed in a vat of mud from
the local pond. And then...
Hasukawa: I've heard enough! I'm leaving!
Shun: Hey wait up!
Hasukawa: Geez! What's that noise upstairs?
(on the 3rd floor)
(Akane tries to punch Shinohara, but he instead catches her fist. As
they are struggling...)
Kurumi: Don't worry Akane! Here I come!
(As Kurumi launches into his Super-Duper Kurumi leg twist...)
Shinohara: Oww!
(his legs fall from under him as he is chopped from the back by Shun!
(*SMASHHHHHHHHHHHHH!*)
(As Akane ducks and Shinohara falls, Kurumi's blow lands right on
Hasukawa who just came up from behind Shinohara!)
[At Actors College Dance Studio]
Instructor: That's it people! Take 5. Good workout today!
(As the people are about to scatter and leave)
Instructor: Miss Hayama! Please come here for a moment.
Hikaru: (whispers to Shuri) What does he want to talk to me for?
Shuri: (shrugs her shoulders) Beats me.
Hikaru: What is the matter sir?
Instructor: Please stand where you are. I believe the class has
something to tell you.
Hikaru: Huh?
(The people who were pretending to leave instead form a circle with
Hikaru in the center. They are interlock their arms and start kicking
their legs up high in the air like the Rockettes. And they in
unison...)
Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday
our dear STAR-CHAN! Happy Birthday to you! Knock 'em dead at
the tryout!
(Wild cheers and laughter erupt, with Hikaru standing in the middle,
still shocked and blushing)
H: <Star-Chan? How did they know?>
[End of Chapter]