Robert Kwong
28th January 2005, 04:26 AM
Hi again,
Here's the last chapter of my Hard|<oR book C interlude Edition.
It is Chapter 12 titled: Transitions.
Stay tuned for the next HARD|<oR BOOK D. The Book of Four.
I'll start on reformatting and spelling corrections
this weekend.
Stay tuned and Enjoy!
------------------------------------------------------------
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: March 21, 1999
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 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 attempt to bridge the gap
between Shin Kor I and Shin Kor II.
HardKor Web Site (With Disclaimer and back-stories: Prelude, 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! (35000 can't be wrong!)I hope you enjoy reading it
as I did writing it. Thanks again. Robert Kwong Ark Productions -99-
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.
Book C: Interlude: Chapter 12: Transitions
While the events of ShinKOR II are transpiring in New York...
[December 25, 1994]
[At XYZ Studios]
(Ryusei walks along outside XYZ Studios, along the streets of
decorated color, adorned with the bright, cheerful lights of the
holidays. )
<Christmas Day. My first Christmas back in Tokyo city. The days have
long past since I last spent a Christmas here in Tokyo. My life has
certainly taken an unpredictable turn after my recovery from the
"accident." Many milestones have been reached since then. I vanquished
Goro's goons. The play gave me the visibility I needed in this
town. The land deal is going according to as planned. It won't be
long, my dear. I will avenge your memory.>
"Hello Mister."
Ryusei: What? (looks down to see a little blond-haired girl peering at
him) What do you want?
"Wanna buy this glowing eel? Do you, do you? PLEEESSSEEEE!?"
Ryusei: Ah...
"Excuse her mister. My granddaughter is quite feisty. I hope she was
not disturbing your peace."
Ryusei: No need to apologize. I was quite amused by her
rambunctiousness. What are you selling anyway?
"Colorful, electric eels. Festive for the holiday season.
Ryusei: I see. I'm in a good mood. I'll take two of them, if you don't
mind.
"Thank you, thank you sir! They glow, y'know."
Ryusei: That I can see, young girl.
"Here you go sir. Two glowing eels, perfect for the festive occasion."
(as the street vendor hands him the bag...)
(*flash*)
"Don't be so wide-eyed, little boy! You act as if this is your first
Christmas in Tokyo!"
//we see a little boy accompanied by a small blond girl and a taller
looking "boy"
"But it is, onee-san!"
"Well, this is what we get for letting a little boy hang out with us!"
"Come on now. Let's indulge him. Do you want one? (points to the
electric eels)
"Yes, please."
"Ok. We'll take two of them."
"Here you go miss. Two glowing eels perfect for the festive occasion."
(*flash back end*)
"Is something the matter sir? Sir?"
Ryusei: Hmm? (*shakes head*) What just happened?
"I was about to hand you the bag sir when you froze there
momentarily. Are you feeling well sir?"
Ryusei: Must be something to do with this time and setting. Excuse
me. Here. Thank you. (hands him some cash) Keep the change.
"Many thanks to you kind sir!"
(Little girl): Bai bai! (*giggle*)
Ryusei: <Woah. I have this dizzy feeling. These electric eels must
have triggered something in my head. But what is the meaning of it?
And those two young girls? I keep seeing them in my flashbacks. Who
are they?>
[At the Hasukawa House] //Note: Kazuhiro is Hasukawa's brother, and
Sumire is Kazuhiro's wife.
Sumire: Do you get a Christmas present from a friend?
Hasukawa: I think so. But I don't know from who.
Kazuhiro (his brother): Make sure it isn't a bomb!
Hasukawa: Kazu! Only you would say a thing like that to hurt me!
Kazuhiro: Yeah, right bro. You forget that your old Greenwood buddies
had some mighty prickly enemies. Enemies that they left behind to
pursue you instead!
Hasukawa: You've got to be kidding!
Kazuhiro: Remember Tezuka's sister, Nagisa! The alleged Yakuza boss in
these parts! Hey, hey, she's was one mean hombre!
Hasukawa: <Could it be Nagisa's tricks to get back at her brother's
friends? It would be too weird. But it's right up her alley. Still, we
haven't heard from her for a long time now.>
Kazuhiro: (picks up the contents) Just a video game cartridge. I guess
the coast is clear.
Hasukawa: You guys sometimes act so crazy!
Sumire: We are just concerned about you.
Hasukawa: Yeah right.
Kazuhiro: You're still bummed from losing that match, ain't ya?
Hasukawa: Hey, it was just my eternal bad luck that got me paired up
with that demon of a girl who happened to be the one to send me to a
hospital in the first place!
Kazuhiro: Ain't the first time a woman has gotten you sent to a
hospital!
Sumire: What did you say dear?
Kazuhiro: Nothing honey. I was just saying how easy it was for him to
be done in by a woman.
Hasukawa: With my luck, the only way for me now to find a new
girlfriend would be the local nurse at the infirmary, since I end up
there most of the time.
Kazuhiro: Ha! That's a good one. Glad you didn't lose your sense of
humor.
Hasukawa: I wasn't joking.
Kazuhiro: That's what make it so funny. Let sing carols to get you in
the holiday mood!
Hasukawa: Oh brother! <at least I hope Taku has better luck with his
relationship back in Kochi. He wasn't there the day of the wrestling,
wanting to rush back as soon as possible.>
[At an apartment]
(Girl sitting on a couch, feet on the table, listening to some music)
(*Background playing "Someone to watch over me."*)
"Christmas in Tokyo. I am all alone by myself for the first time.
Even the time I stowed away to Tokyo, I was with that "bathtub" boy.
What am I going to do with myself now?
(*flashback*)
Yumi: You're not going back Rik-chan?
"Yes. I am going to stay here for this Christmas."
Yumi: But Rik-chan! What am I going to tell your okaasan?
"Just tell her I wasn't feeling well and couldn't make the trip back."
Yumi: You should reconsider. You should, like be with your family.
"I've already made up my mind. I don't feel like confronting my mother
right now, and especially not during these times. I already feel
awkward enough acting phony for everyone's sake."
Yumi: It's up to you. But it's not too late to change your mind.
"Arrigatou. I keep that in mind."
(*end flashback*)
I can't be cooped up in here the whole day. I will suffocate. I must
do something. After all, this is my hometown. If I'm going to spend
Christmas alone by myself for the first time in my life, I'm going to
do it in grand style. I'm going to paint the town red, just watch.
[Back to #1's apartment]
(#1 scanning through some documents)
(Taki the dog sleeping quietly on the floor)
(Kaori sitting there, with her chin resting on her palms, bored to
tears)
Kaori: Christmas day and you're still working! Why don't you take a
break and take me somewhere?
#1: No deal. You can go mall shopping if you want to. Trail's too hot
right now.
Kaori: You always have an excuse. Got something yet?
#1: I do. I'm looking at the partial analysis that #2's chem buddy did
for him. I think I know what this secret reagent is that the colonel
used to escape.
Kaori: Then what is it?
#1: A top secret military formula designed for bore through the
toughest metals in the world. Implications are enormous. With it, can
penetrate any vehicle with any world leaders in it. The ultimate
assassin's tool.
Kaori: Does it have a name?
#1: It may have. Ain't too pretty. You can call it Solution "X".
Kaori: Sounds unbelievable for such a thing an exist. No way to store
the thing.
#1: That's the beauty and the secret I was trying to figure out. No
normal container exists for this chemical. In the labs, they were using
a magnetic plasma field to keep the chemical in place.
Kaori: How come you know all about this stuff?
#1: Let's just say I have connections in high places.
Kaori: So how did it get here?
#1: That's the second part of the puzzle. Reckon they found a special
organic, crystalline sequence designed to form a base against this
chemical, creating a harmless, insulating layer, keeping it in place.
But if you break its lattice structure, then bam! The chemical escapes
and does its thing. It causes a mini chain reaction along the metallic
objects it comes in contact with, causing meltdown and toxic fumes.
Wouldn't want that to come near my ole'Betsy. (holds out his
super-duper gun and twirls it around)
Kaori: Will you put that down! You'll put someone's eye out with that!
#1: Now that we know what chemical that the colonel is armed with,
we're prepared to deal with him. But first, we rest up a bit and
celebrate.
Kaori: Finally you decided to take a break!
#1: Y'know, "a man gotta know his limitations". This calls for a
viewing of "Pale Rider".
Kaori: Nooo! Not another Clint Eastwood film!
Taki: <*Ruff*>!
[Back at the Twins house]
Manami: I hope Kyosuke and Madoka can find out what happened to poor
Hikaru.
Kurumi: I doubt it. He always makes any situation he gets into worse
than it is!
Takashi: (lowers newspaper) Now, now little one. I'm sure Kyosuke will
be more responsible this time.
(Akane walks in with Kazuya)
Akane: Hiya uncle! Good to see you back in Japan. How was your
photography trip?
Takashi: Quite good. I'm developing them now in the lab. I trust you
and your family are dong well?
Akane: Sure am. We're doing super!
Kazuya: That's what you think.
Akane: (sternly) Ka-zu-ya!
Kazuya: (sticks tongue out) Bleah!
Akane: I'll take care of you later. (turns towards twins) Hello
Champions! Give me a high 5!
(All 3 jump up in unison, floating in the air to deliver their high
5's.)
Manami: How come your parents didn't come with you?
Akane: Dunno. They can flash in here any minute. But you know my
okaasan. Always have to get her hair done just right. Let's not worry
about them for the time being. We have to prepare for the next
competition.
Kurumi: So soon? It's Christmas day, and I wanna have some fun!
Akane: We will. After we do a little preparation. We can't afford to
rest on our laurels. The next competition will be a group event. I
can't wait for my chance to compete head to head with that creep!
[Back to Hasukawa residency]
Kazuhiro: So what's happening at the dorm this semester? You've been
kind of distant lately.
Hasukawa: Easy to be with you around. And how should I know?
Kazuhiro: Enough with the sarcasm. You're the head of the house this
time. Give me the details. Let in some brotherly love here!
Hasukawa: <*groan*> Oh brother!
Kazuhiro: Yep, that's right. Now, spill your guts!
Hasukawa: Very funny. If you must know, I've been a jerk this whole
semester. I pretty much ignored everyone and got everyone mad at
me. Wasted all my time on a role-playing video game that Shinobu
sempai left me. Shun was the only person filling me in on the everyday
events. I then get beaten up by a girl, went to the hospital, and was
forced to participate in a bizarre mock sumo wrestling match. That
pretty much sums up my entire semester.
Kazuhiro: What a match it was! Pretty adventurous for you. Was it fun?
Hasukawa: You wish!
Kazuhiro: That's my little brother! Bad luck just flows through your
veins! So who won the overall competition?
Hasukawa: Unfortunately, our house lost.
Kazuhiro: I should have expected as much.
Hasukawa: But those girls were competing against were tougher than
your average girl. They were like those girls in FF6, Celes and
Terra. Those terrible-twosome twin sisters.
Kazuhiro: Your love life must be really shot if you're now comparing
these girls to a computer game counterpart.
Hasukawa: I suppose so. And the worst part was that I was paired up
with the person who put me in the hospital in the first place.
Kazuhiro: Yeah, you keep mentioning that. The irony is not lost upon
me. But I wonder...
Hasukawa: What?
Kazuhiro: You must really like this rough stuff with girls.
Hasukawa: Very funny.
Kazuhiro: I mean, you must have a thing for tough girls.
Hasukawa: That's not of your concern.
Kazuhiro: Ok, ok. Just keep your belt of misfortune away from me.
Hasukawa: My greatest defeat is yet to come.
Kazuhiro: Now what are you talking about.
Hasukawa: The demolition of Greenwood Boarding House.
Kazuhiro: What? I thought you made a deal with the financiers already.
That's why you decided to spend your college days in that house.
Hasukawa: They changed their minds at the last minute.
Kazuhiro: Those bureaucratic assholes! I'm going to kill them!
Hasukawa: Calm down. There's nothing that can be done now.
Kazuhiro: Why didn't you tell anyone about this?
Hasukawa: Because it was my problem. I started this whole initiative
to save the house, and I felt ashamed about this setup, so I kept it
to myself. It was very selfish on my part.
Kazuhiro: So how much are they asking for?
Hasukawa: They want the balloon payment of 10,000,000 yen by Jan 15.
Kazuhiro: Woah! That's a lot of cash.
Hasukawa: Yep.
Kazuhiro: Well, if it's going to go, we should organize a farewell
party when everyone gets back! Oops. It would be too late by then!
Hasukawa: (*groan*)
(*ding dong*)
Hasukawa: <saved by the bell>
Hasukawa: Who could it be?
(opens door to see Shinohara Asuma standing before him!)
Hasukawa: Huh? It's you! What are you doing here.
Shinohara: Gomen. I need to enter the house again. I need to retrieve
a few items for my project.
Hasukawa: Hmm. Strange for you to come all the way out on Christmas
day. But anything to escape the rantings of my brother. Give me a
moment to grab my coat and shoes...
"Whose your friend there? Don't let him stand out in the cold so long.
Please come in!"
Shinohara: No thanks, maam.
Sumire: Wow, so polite! You must come in! Don't be silly! (drags him
in reluctantly)
Shinohara: Strong spirit. And strong grip.
Hasukawa: You're telling me. Guess you have to stay a well and sample
some of Sumire finely made tea. So tell me. Why aren't you home with
your folks?
Shinohara: My father is the head of Shinohara Industries. He has more
important matters to attend to. Especially not to bother with a
trivial formality as Christmas. We have a mutual understanding. That
is all.
Hasukawa: I see...then where are you staying now?
Shinohara: A nearby hotel, Kingdom hotel.
Sumire: Here is your tea. Suka. Aren't you going to introduce your
friend to us?
Kazuhiro: Yeah, who is he?
Hasukawa: Oh, he's one of the new borders at Greenwood. Shinohara
Asuma.
(Shinohara nods his head in acknowledgment)
Kazuhiro: Border eh? How did you find out about this address?
Shinohara: Local directory to the house. I surmised that you two were
brothers.
Kazuhiro: That's right. I am the emergency doctor to Greenwood.
Sumire: How is your tea? Need sugar or milk with that?
Shinohara: No thank you. I like it thick and strong. (gulps down
entire drink!) Thank you. Leaving now. Bye.
Kazuhiro: <What a blunt fellow. Doesn't seem like he's in any holiday
mood>
[Ryusei Residency]
Nagasi: What are you ruminating about now?
Ryusei: (staring at Shogi board) Future plans. Future ambitions.
Future conquests.
Nagasi: Yet another dull X-mas to pass by. How boring!
Ryusei: Check the kitchen for a surprise.
Nagasi: Surprise! Ooh! I love surprises. I can't wait to see...Aiiiee!
Ryusei: Surprised?
Nagasi: These are...are eels!
Ryusei: Yes, they are, aren't they?
Nagasi: How could you pull such a cruel joke on me? You know I abhor
slimely, slithering reptilian creatures. I hate it, I hate it, I HATE
IT!
Ryusei: Still bored?
Nagasi: You have a sick mind.
Ryusei: Would it shock you more if I told you that those two eels are
our celebration dinner tonight?
Nagasi: Urgh! I'm going to wretch if I stay any longer. I'm going to
seek out my boy toy, Sugi-baby. Have a rotten Christmas!
(*slams door*)
Ryusei: (*chuckles*) My final fun for the year. (closes his eyes as
the classical music wanes through the penthouse)
(background hum noise of the fax machine)
(*phone rings*)
"Hello? Yes, Family Travel Agency? Yes, Koji-san, thank you for
informing me. I look forward to departing for Singapore in the next
few hours. Goodbye."
[At Muroke's house in Hokkaido]
Okaasan: Muroke! Come down here and meet your cousins!
Muroke: In a minute, ok? I still have this thing to send out to
Master.
Okaasan: Whatever you say dear. But please don't keep everyone
waiting. It is Christmas day.
Muroke: I know. Will be there. Just another minute more. <Geez, what
lousy luck you have, Hiyama-san. I hope you are alright. Thank god I
scanned through the Fame BBS messages. My prayers are with you. Please
Master! Help find your lost love!
[In Kochi, Japan]
(at a get-together party)
"Mori? Morisaki? Is that you sulking by yourself in a corner?"
Taku: Yutaka? Matsuno Yutaka! How are you?
Yutaka: I'm fine. But you don't look so good.
Taku: I have felt better before.
Yutaka: Look out! Fine lady coming our way. Watch out.
"Hello, you two. I had a feeling I would find you two here in your
usual spot."
Yutaka: Yumi-san. Good to see you again.
Taku: Do you know with Rikkako is coming or not?
Yumi: Rik-chan? No, she's not coming. She a hopeless case for you to
figure out.
Taku: I should have known. Something in the stars told me that this
was not the right time and place.
Yumi: I suppose you're right.
Yutaka: Hey, don't be down on account of a girl. You know how icy cold
she is. I mean, I had the privilege of being personally blown off by
her.
Taku: Yeah, I know how she is and all. That's her nature. That's
something she can't change overnight. But I was hoping that this year
would be different. That somehow, she would come around.
Yutaka: We all hope for things to happen. But you just don't
know. Let's not let her dampen our spirits further. Let's have a
drink.
[At the Shin ABCB] (snowing heavily outside)
(Yukari singing on stage with the rest of the band)
(the 3 "Stooges" are there: Hatta, Komatsu, and the slumbering 'Izzy')
Komatsu: Alas! Gawd! It's cold! Where are all the hot babes now?
Hatta: Probably at home, slinkering down in a hot sauna.
Master: Looks like you guys need a hot drink. Here. Complimentary
capuchinos.
Komatsu: You still make that stuff? I thought you quit serving that
here.
Master: I still have my machine in the back. I only use it for special
occasions.
Hatta: Brrr! Thanks Master!
Komatsu: Oh, look at that hot Yukari! Still performing, even on
Christmas day! What a fine babe! Ummm, she looks so delicious, I can
taste her!
Hatta: Too bad she's already takened.
Komatsu: Cheer up man! There's plenty of other fish to catch. Let's
hop on over to the Twins' place.
Hatta: Wish I could. But gotta meet the deadline for next month. We
gonna debut in Jumbo comic, and I want to make it a double-feature for
Yurushite Agerie.
Komatsu: Man, sometimes success is a curse. I thought you were finish
with the drawings already.
Hatta: I am. I have to fill in the captions now.
"I'll do it for ya. "
Komatsu: You're awake?
Izzy: Yez. I'ma awake. Go ahead to ya parties. I am nobody and nobody
to tie me down. I'ma free 'in. So go....go have ya fun.
Hatta: You did do a good job last time.
Izzy: I'll do it again. and again. and again. and again.
Komatsu: Come on buddy. He's begging us. Let him have his own fun
while we have ours.
Hatta: Well ok then. But here. (flips some money on the table)
Hatta: Go ahead and buy yourself a nice Christmas present.
Izzy: Ari-ga-tou. (bares his buck teeth)
(A lady walks in carrying several shopping bags)
Komatsu: Hello honey! (eyes her up and down with his lecherous eyes)
Hatta: What have we here?
"Listen scumbags! I in no mood to play with you."
Komatsu: Wow! We have here a lively one!
Akane: (from behind) Play your tricks on someone else, ok?
Hatta: The Twins! And Akane!
Komatsu: You 3 brought along a friend. How convenient! Want to do some
"slippery" action later on?
Kurumi: In your dreams!
Komatsu: We'd better be going Hatta-man. We know when we're not
wanted!
(The hentai boys leave)
"Thank you for that."
Akane: No problem, Muto-san. We didn't want you to have a bad
impression of our favorite hangout.
Manami: Those two aren't that bad.
Akane: But you gotta set them straight when they talk trash to you.
"I'm glad I bumped into you three."
Kurumi: Yeah, we were just hanging out after Christmas brunch. You had
your Christmas day festivities already with your family?
"Sort of. I love walking in the city."
Akane: Good thing we did meet up. You've been to quite a few of our
meetings. If you have time, we can talk about the upcoming clash.
"I do have some free time now. I would be happy to talk about anything
you like."
Akane: Good. We can talk, woman to woman.
[At Greenwood house]
Hasukawa: We're back. Woah.
Shinohara: Something the matter?
Hasukawa: Oh, it's nothing. I just was thinking how funny this place
felt with everyone gone home for the holidays. So empty and alone.
Shinohara: Only a structure.
Hasukawa: Ah, but there's a lot of history with this structure. It's
was constructed right after the end of World War II during the
reconstruction period headed by General MacArthur. It was designed as
a boys boarding school to introduce the western way of teaching here
in Japan. Since then, it has formed a tradition for the multitude of
classes and students that have passed through its doors. What history
it has known. Alas, we will be the final inhabitants it will know
before its demise.
Shinohara: All things go. Old buildings get torn down. New ones get
built. Things go on.
Hasukawa: I guess you're right. I probably become too attached and too
sentimental for my own good. (touches its walls) I've experienced some
of the best years of my life within its confines. I'm definitely going
to miss it.
Shinohara: Let's go.
Hasukawa: Sure. Go ahead and pick up the stuff you need.
(Shinohara enters rooms and within minutes comes out with a few
gadgetry items)
Hasukawa: Mighty interesting hardware you have there. What is it?
Shinohara: It's a RF modulator module and a detection and signaling
circuit. I need it to construct my GPS system for the hiking
challenge.
Hasukawa: Is that so?
Shinohara: Yes. I hope it gives us a key advantage when you lead the
hike.
Hasukawa: Me? Lead the hike? How come I didn't hear about this?
Shinohara: You must have forgotten. You agreed to participate in the
challenge events as part of your penance to the inhabitants.
Hasukawa: I did, but I thought it was only for that wrestling match.
Shinohara: You must be careful when you make promises sir. Do you wish
to decline?
Hasukawa: (*sigh*) Ok. What is it this time?
Shinohara: A endurance and hiking expedition. A 3 day affair. From
Tokyo, we will travel through Kobe and finally at Kyoto in the
forests. Whichever team can capture the hidden flag in the forests is
declared the victor of the event.
Hasukawa: Such a long hiking trek? Sounds exhausting! Are you kidding
me?
Shinohara: I suggest you prepare for this event by daily exercise
jog. We need to have a better showing this time.
Hasukawa: But what's the point? This place won't be around by that
time. There will be no unity at all.
Shinohara: Perhaps. Things happen. Things change suddenly.
Hasukawa: Well it won't be soon enough. And it's already too late.
Shinohara: This house may be down, and we may be scattered, but will
you not still lead the way?
Hasukawa: Hmm. I haven't been a good administrator at all, and I did
make a commitment to make it up to you all. If that's what the group
wants, then I shall lead you all.
Shinohara: Good. I hope you will prepare.
Hasukawa: (*mock jog in place*) Yep. I will. Practice for my
endurance. That I'll do.
Shinohara: Good sir. Going back to complete my work. Ja!
Hasukawa: (*Whew*) Sure is a wacky guy. But true to the tradition of
Greenwood. Isn't that right my friend? (talking to the walls)
"Excuse me! Are you Hasukawa-san?"
Hasukawa: Yes. How 'd you get in here?
"The door was left open."
Hasukawa: Ah, that would explain it. What do you want?
"I am the county assessor, Hito Ado. We've met before.
Hasukawa: Yes, I remember you. What are you doing here?
"I am here to conduct a inspection of the facilities."
Hasukawa: Now? What for? This place is going to be torn down anyway.
"Just following procedure, sir. I called your residency and I believe
your brother indicated that you would be at the premises already."
Hasukawa: Isn't this a strange time to be doing the inspection?
"On the contrary. The holidays where the building is completely vacant
makes it a convenience to inspect."
Hasukawa: I see. Well, I have to get back home, so will this take
long?
"Yes, it will. If it is a concern, you may leave the keys with me and
I will deposit it back into your mailbox when I am done here."
Hasukawa: Ok. This place is all yours. <at least in a month>
[At the police precinct] "Jackson! In my office now!"
Jackson: Now what, chief?
"I want to know what's going on! NOW! It's been over two weeks and
I've heard nothing from you at all on this case. What are you trying
to hide?"
Jackson: Nothing sir. Things tend to slow down during the holidays.
"You didn't answer my question. Is he or is he not still at large?"
Jackson: Judging from the forensics report and DNA report that I just
got back from the labs, it would seem that it was a positive match
between the recovered, deceased body and the Colonel.
"So, the demon has gone to hell. Good. You're off the case now. I'll
have Nogami reassign you. Take the rest of the day off."
Jackson: Will do. <But I'm not off the case just yet...>
[At Ikeda Temple]
Hasukawa: Mitsuru sempai!
Ikeda Mitsuru: Yo Suka! Good for you to drop by. Here for prayers?
Hasukawa: Nah. Just came back from Greenwood house. An inspector is
there right now surveying the whole place before they tear it
down. Isn't that sickening?
Ikeda: Yep. Actually, it's funny.
Hasukawa: What's so funny?
Ikeda: Remember our resident ghost?
Hasukawa: You mean Misako, the one who use to hound Shinobu?
Ikeda: Ping pong. Today is her birthday!
Hasukawa: It is. How'd you know?
Ikeda: Did a little research into her after our little encounter with
her. So did you come by to vent and rant?
Hasukawa: No, no. Of course not. Just wanted to wish you a Merry
Christmas.
Ikeda: Same to you. Although officially, I must remain neutral in
regards to my perception of this Christian holiday, being a Buddhist
and all.
Hasukawa: Very funny.
Ikeda: How are you feeling after your bruising?
Hasukawa: I'm still in one piece.
Ikeda: So, have you asked that kawaii Kurumi girl out yet?
Hasukawa: Are you kidding me? You must be nuts! She practically sent
me to the infirmary!
Ikeda: He-he. Still pining away for Igarashi?
Hasukawa: Just a bit. The major thing that's gnawing at me is where
she went.
Ikeda: Well, no time to slack off now. You've already wasted one
semester so you are behind, as usual. Now you have to do your best to
catch up. Otherwise, you're never be a doctor.
Hasukawa: Ironic, isn't it? I can't even stand the sight of my own
blood and I want to be a doctor.
Ikeda: It's just the type of person you are. Helping people is your
forte. Even if it means that you suffer. That's your most endearing
trait. Don't you forget it.
Hasukawa: I won't. Thanks sempai. I'm glad we had this talk.
Ikeda: Hey, what are friends for? (flashes smile)
[Back at Ryusei's penthouse]
(Nagasi staggers in, drunk)
Ryusei: Back so early? Had your fun?
Nagasi: You know I did. Hey...where're you going?
Ryusei: Another trip. Someone must be keeping watch over the
"company." Ja! (exits out the door)
Nagasi: What a cold bastard! Leaving me here all alone tonight. Humph!
(she tries to walk, but stumbles across; as she grabs hold of the
table, she knocks over the fax tray)
Nagasi: What's this...(picks up fax) Hmmm....what have we here...Miss
Hikaru Hiyama ....kidnaped...oh my...what a unfortunate accident.
HA HA HA HA HA!!!
[At Greenwood house, in the evening]
Inspector: East wing complete. West wing now.
"Hello!"
Inspector: (holding a flashlight) Who was that? Who said that?
"I did! I'm surprised I get to see a live person on my birthday.
Inspector: I can't see you?
"I'm right above you!"
(Inspector looks up) G-g-ghost. Wait...this must be a trick.
"You want to see tricks? Ok."
(The girl ghost starts to glide aimlessly around him.)
"You're so nice to keep me company here. I hardly get to meet anybody
since I got hit by a car here."
Inspector: Ya! Argh! Help! I'm outta here!
[January 1995]
[Back at Ryokurin Ryo]
(Hasukawa walking back to the house)
Hasukawa: I better get there early this time so I can see everyone off
before they pack up and leave...ShuN!
Shun: Hi Suka!
Hasukawa: You're early. I was hoping to beat you here this time.
Shun: You have to get up pretty early in the morning to do that.
Hasukawa: I guess so. How was your holidays?
Shun: It was super!
Hasukawa: Good. Glad to hear it. So have you decided where you were
going to stay now? Perhaps at the university dorms?
Shun: Not at the dorms. So staid and sanitary. No, I decided that I'm
staying right here.
Hasukawa: Very funny. You know we only have 3 days to clear out
everything before they start the tear-down process.
Shun: No Suka. I don't think so.
(enters hall to see the dorm residents there)
"SURPRISE!"
[End of Chapter 12]
[[End of Interlude Book C]]
Here's the last chapter of my Hard|<oR book C interlude Edition.
It is Chapter 12 titled: Transitions.
Stay tuned for the next HARD|<oR BOOK D. The Book of Four.
I'll start on reformatting and spelling corrections
this weekend.
Stay tuned and Enjoy!
------------------------------------------------------------
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: March 21, 1999
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 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 attempt to bridge the gap
between Shin Kor I and Shin Kor II.
HardKor Web Site (With Disclaimer and back-stories: Prelude, 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! (35000 can't be wrong!)I hope you enjoy reading it
as I did writing it. Thanks again. Robert Kwong Ark Productions -99-
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.
Book C: Interlude: Chapter 12: Transitions
While the events of ShinKOR II are transpiring in New York...
[December 25, 1994]
[At XYZ Studios]
(Ryusei walks along outside XYZ Studios, along the streets of
decorated color, adorned with the bright, cheerful lights of the
holidays. )
<Christmas Day. My first Christmas back in Tokyo city. The days have
long past since I last spent a Christmas here in Tokyo. My life has
certainly taken an unpredictable turn after my recovery from the
"accident." Many milestones have been reached since then. I vanquished
Goro's goons. The play gave me the visibility I needed in this
town. The land deal is going according to as planned. It won't be
long, my dear. I will avenge your memory.>
"Hello Mister."
Ryusei: What? (looks down to see a little blond-haired girl peering at
him) What do you want?
"Wanna buy this glowing eel? Do you, do you? PLEEESSSEEEE!?"
Ryusei: Ah...
"Excuse her mister. My granddaughter is quite feisty. I hope she was
not disturbing your peace."
Ryusei: No need to apologize. I was quite amused by her
rambunctiousness. What are you selling anyway?
"Colorful, electric eels. Festive for the holiday season.
Ryusei: I see. I'm in a good mood. I'll take two of them, if you don't
mind.
"Thank you, thank you sir! They glow, y'know."
Ryusei: That I can see, young girl.
"Here you go sir. Two glowing eels, perfect for the festive occasion."
(as the street vendor hands him the bag...)
(*flash*)
"Don't be so wide-eyed, little boy! You act as if this is your first
Christmas in Tokyo!"
//we see a little boy accompanied by a small blond girl and a taller
looking "boy"
"But it is, onee-san!"
"Well, this is what we get for letting a little boy hang out with us!"
"Come on now. Let's indulge him. Do you want one? (points to the
electric eels)
"Yes, please."
"Ok. We'll take two of them."
"Here you go miss. Two glowing eels perfect for the festive occasion."
(*flash back end*)
"Is something the matter sir? Sir?"
Ryusei: Hmm? (*shakes head*) What just happened?
"I was about to hand you the bag sir when you froze there
momentarily. Are you feeling well sir?"
Ryusei: Must be something to do with this time and setting. Excuse
me. Here. Thank you. (hands him some cash) Keep the change.
"Many thanks to you kind sir!"
(Little girl): Bai bai! (*giggle*)
Ryusei: <Woah. I have this dizzy feeling. These electric eels must
have triggered something in my head. But what is the meaning of it?
And those two young girls? I keep seeing them in my flashbacks. Who
are they?>
[At the Hasukawa House] //Note: Kazuhiro is Hasukawa's brother, and
Sumire is Kazuhiro's wife.
Sumire: Do you get a Christmas present from a friend?
Hasukawa: I think so. But I don't know from who.
Kazuhiro (his brother): Make sure it isn't a bomb!
Hasukawa: Kazu! Only you would say a thing like that to hurt me!
Kazuhiro: Yeah, right bro. You forget that your old Greenwood buddies
had some mighty prickly enemies. Enemies that they left behind to
pursue you instead!
Hasukawa: You've got to be kidding!
Kazuhiro: Remember Tezuka's sister, Nagisa! The alleged Yakuza boss in
these parts! Hey, hey, she's was one mean hombre!
Hasukawa: <Could it be Nagisa's tricks to get back at her brother's
friends? It would be too weird. But it's right up her alley. Still, we
haven't heard from her for a long time now.>
Kazuhiro: (picks up the contents) Just a video game cartridge. I guess
the coast is clear.
Hasukawa: You guys sometimes act so crazy!
Sumire: We are just concerned about you.
Hasukawa: Yeah right.
Kazuhiro: You're still bummed from losing that match, ain't ya?
Hasukawa: Hey, it was just my eternal bad luck that got me paired up
with that demon of a girl who happened to be the one to send me to a
hospital in the first place!
Kazuhiro: Ain't the first time a woman has gotten you sent to a
hospital!
Sumire: What did you say dear?
Kazuhiro: Nothing honey. I was just saying how easy it was for him to
be done in by a woman.
Hasukawa: With my luck, the only way for me now to find a new
girlfriend would be the local nurse at the infirmary, since I end up
there most of the time.
Kazuhiro: Ha! That's a good one. Glad you didn't lose your sense of
humor.
Hasukawa: I wasn't joking.
Kazuhiro: That's what make it so funny. Let sing carols to get you in
the holiday mood!
Hasukawa: Oh brother! <at least I hope Taku has better luck with his
relationship back in Kochi. He wasn't there the day of the wrestling,
wanting to rush back as soon as possible.>
[At an apartment]
(Girl sitting on a couch, feet on the table, listening to some music)
(*Background playing "Someone to watch over me."*)
"Christmas in Tokyo. I am all alone by myself for the first time.
Even the time I stowed away to Tokyo, I was with that "bathtub" boy.
What am I going to do with myself now?
(*flashback*)
Yumi: You're not going back Rik-chan?
"Yes. I am going to stay here for this Christmas."
Yumi: But Rik-chan! What am I going to tell your okaasan?
"Just tell her I wasn't feeling well and couldn't make the trip back."
Yumi: You should reconsider. You should, like be with your family.
"I've already made up my mind. I don't feel like confronting my mother
right now, and especially not during these times. I already feel
awkward enough acting phony for everyone's sake."
Yumi: It's up to you. But it's not too late to change your mind.
"Arrigatou. I keep that in mind."
(*end flashback*)
I can't be cooped up in here the whole day. I will suffocate. I must
do something. After all, this is my hometown. If I'm going to spend
Christmas alone by myself for the first time in my life, I'm going to
do it in grand style. I'm going to paint the town red, just watch.
[Back to #1's apartment]
(#1 scanning through some documents)
(Taki the dog sleeping quietly on the floor)
(Kaori sitting there, with her chin resting on her palms, bored to
tears)
Kaori: Christmas day and you're still working! Why don't you take a
break and take me somewhere?
#1: No deal. You can go mall shopping if you want to. Trail's too hot
right now.
Kaori: You always have an excuse. Got something yet?
#1: I do. I'm looking at the partial analysis that #2's chem buddy did
for him. I think I know what this secret reagent is that the colonel
used to escape.
Kaori: Then what is it?
#1: A top secret military formula designed for bore through the
toughest metals in the world. Implications are enormous. With it, can
penetrate any vehicle with any world leaders in it. The ultimate
assassin's tool.
Kaori: Does it have a name?
#1: It may have. Ain't too pretty. You can call it Solution "X".
Kaori: Sounds unbelievable for such a thing an exist. No way to store
the thing.
#1: That's the beauty and the secret I was trying to figure out. No
normal container exists for this chemical. In the labs, they were using
a magnetic plasma field to keep the chemical in place.
Kaori: How come you know all about this stuff?
#1: Let's just say I have connections in high places.
Kaori: So how did it get here?
#1: That's the second part of the puzzle. Reckon they found a special
organic, crystalline sequence designed to form a base against this
chemical, creating a harmless, insulating layer, keeping it in place.
But if you break its lattice structure, then bam! The chemical escapes
and does its thing. It causes a mini chain reaction along the metallic
objects it comes in contact with, causing meltdown and toxic fumes.
Wouldn't want that to come near my ole'Betsy. (holds out his
super-duper gun and twirls it around)
Kaori: Will you put that down! You'll put someone's eye out with that!
#1: Now that we know what chemical that the colonel is armed with,
we're prepared to deal with him. But first, we rest up a bit and
celebrate.
Kaori: Finally you decided to take a break!
#1: Y'know, "a man gotta know his limitations". This calls for a
viewing of "Pale Rider".
Kaori: Nooo! Not another Clint Eastwood film!
Taki: <*Ruff*>!
[Back at the Twins house]
Manami: I hope Kyosuke and Madoka can find out what happened to poor
Hikaru.
Kurumi: I doubt it. He always makes any situation he gets into worse
than it is!
Takashi: (lowers newspaper) Now, now little one. I'm sure Kyosuke will
be more responsible this time.
(Akane walks in with Kazuya)
Akane: Hiya uncle! Good to see you back in Japan. How was your
photography trip?
Takashi: Quite good. I'm developing them now in the lab. I trust you
and your family are dong well?
Akane: Sure am. We're doing super!
Kazuya: That's what you think.
Akane: (sternly) Ka-zu-ya!
Kazuya: (sticks tongue out) Bleah!
Akane: I'll take care of you later. (turns towards twins) Hello
Champions! Give me a high 5!
(All 3 jump up in unison, floating in the air to deliver their high
5's.)
Manami: How come your parents didn't come with you?
Akane: Dunno. They can flash in here any minute. But you know my
okaasan. Always have to get her hair done just right. Let's not worry
about them for the time being. We have to prepare for the next
competition.
Kurumi: So soon? It's Christmas day, and I wanna have some fun!
Akane: We will. After we do a little preparation. We can't afford to
rest on our laurels. The next competition will be a group event. I
can't wait for my chance to compete head to head with that creep!
[Back to Hasukawa residency]
Kazuhiro: So what's happening at the dorm this semester? You've been
kind of distant lately.
Hasukawa: Easy to be with you around. And how should I know?
Kazuhiro: Enough with the sarcasm. You're the head of the house this
time. Give me the details. Let in some brotherly love here!
Hasukawa: <*groan*> Oh brother!
Kazuhiro: Yep, that's right. Now, spill your guts!
Hasukawa: Very funny. If you must know, I've been a jerk this whole
semester. I pretty much ignored everyone and got everyone mad at
me. Wasted all my time on a role-playing video game that Shinobu
sempai left me. Shun was the only person filling me in on the everyday
events. I then get beaten up by a girl, went to the hospital, and was
forced to participate in a bizarre mock sumo wrestling match. That
pretty much sums up my entire semester.
Kazuhiro: What a match it was! Pretty adventurous for you. Was it fun?
Hasukawa: You wish!
Kazuhiro: That's my little brother! Bad luck just flows through your
veins! So who won the overall competition?
Hasukawa: Unfortunately, our house lost.
Kazuhiro: I should have expected as much.
Hasukawa: But those girls were competing against were tougher than
your average girl. They were like those girls in FF6, Celes and
Terra. Those terrible-twosome twin sisters.
Kazuhiro: Your love life must be really shot if you're now comparing
these girls to a computer game counterpart.
Hasukawa: I suppose so. And the worst part was that I was paired up
with the person who put me in the hospital in the first place.
Kazuhiro: Yeah, you keep mentioning that. The irony is not lost upon
me. But I wonder...
Hasukawa: What?
Kazuhiro: You must really like this rough stuff with girls.
Hasukawa: Very funny.
Kazuhiro: I mean, you must have a thing for tough girls.
Hasukawa: That's not of your concern.
Kazuhiro: Ok, ok. Just keep your belt of misfortune away from me.
Hasukawa: My greatest defeat is yet to come.
Kazuhiro: Now what are you talking about.
Hasukawa: The demolition of Greenwood Boarding House.
Kazuhiro: What? I thought you made a deal with the financiers already.
That's why you decided to spend your college days in that house.
Hasukawa: They changed their minds at the last minute.
Kazuhiro: Those bureaucratic assholes! I'm going to kill them!
Hasukawa: Calm down. There's nothing that can be done now.
Kazuhiro: Why didn't you tell anyone about this?
Hasukawa: Because it was my problem. I started this whole initiative
to save the house, and I felt ashamed about this setup, so I kept it
to myself. It was very selfish on my part.
Kazuhiro: So how much are they asking for?
Hasukawa: They want the balloon payment of 10,000,000 yen by Jan 15.
Kazuhiro: Woah! That's a lot of cash.
Hasukawa: Yep.
Kazuhiro: Well, if it's going to go, we should organize a farewell
party when everyone gets back! Oops. It would be too late by then!
Hasukawa: (*groan*)
(*ding dong*)
Hasukawa: <saved by the bell>
Hasukawa: Who could it be?
(opens door to see Shinohara Asuma standing before him!)
Hasukawa: Huh? It's you! What are you doing here.
Shinohara: Gomen. I need to enter the house again. I need to retrieve
a few items for my project.
Hasukawa: Hmm. Strange for you to come all the way out on Christmas
day. But anything to escape the rantings of my brother. Give me a
moment to grab my coat and shoes...
"Whose your friend there? Don't let him stand out in the cold so long.
Please come in!"
Shinohara: No thanks, maam.
Sumire: Wow, so polite! You must come in! Don't be silly! (drags him
in reluctantly)
Shinohara: Strong spirit. And strong grip.
Hasukawa: You're telling me. Guess you have to stay a well and sample
some of Sumire finely made tea. So tell me. Why aren't you home with
your folks?
Shinohara: My father is the head of Shinohara Industries. He has more
important matters to attend to. Especially not to bother with a
trivial formality as Christmas. We have a mutual understanding. That
is all.
Hasukawa: I see...then where are you staying now?
Shinohara: A nearby hotel, Kingdom hotel.
Sumire: Here is your tea. Suka. Aren't you going to introduce your
friend to us?
Kazuhiro: Yeah, who is he?
Hasukawa: Oh, he's one of the new borders at Greenwood. Shinohara
Asuma.
(Shinohara nods his head in acknowledgment)
Kazuhiro: Border eh? How did you find out about this address?
Shinohara: Local directory to the house. I surmised that you two were
brothers.
Kazuhiro: That's right. I am the emergency doctor to Greenwood.
Sumire: How is your tea? Need sugar or milk with that?
Shinohara: No thank you. I like it thick and strong. (gulps down
entire drink!) Thank you. Leaving now. Bye.
Kazuhiro: <What a blunt fellow. Doesn't seem like he's in any holiday
mood>
[Ryusei Residency]
Nagasi: What are you ruminating about now?
Ryusei: (staring at Shogi board) Future plans. Future ambitions.
Future conquests.
Nagasi: Yet another dull X-mas to pass by. How boring!
Ryusei: Check the kitchen for a surprise.
Nagasi: Surprise! Ooh! I love surprises. I can't wait to see...Aiiiee!
Ryusei: Surprised?
Nagasi: These are...are eels!
Ryusei: Yes, they are, aren't they?
Nagasi: How could you pull such a cruel joke on me? You know I abhor
slimely, slithering reptilian creatures. I hate it, I hate it, I HATE
IT!
Ryusei: Still bored?
Nagasi: You have a sick mind.
Ryusei: Would it shock you more if I told you that those two eels are
our celebration dinner tonight?
Nagasi: Urgh! I'm going to wretch if I stay any longer. I'm going to
seek out my boy toy, Sugi-baby. Have a rotten Christmas!
(*slams door*)
Ryusei: (*chuckles*) My final fun for the year. (closes his eyes as
the classical music wanes through the penthouse)
(background hum noise of the fax machine)
(*phone rings*)
"Hello? Yes, Family Travel Agency? Yes, Koji-san, thank you for
informing me. I look forward to departing for Singapore in the next
few hours. Goodbye."
[At Muroke's house in Hokkaido]
Okaasan: Muroke! Come down here and meet your cousins!
Muroke: In a minute, ok? I still have this thing to send out to
Master.
Okaasan: Whatever you say dear. But please don't keep everyone
waiting. It is Christmas day.
Muroke: I know. Will be there. Just another minute more. <Geez, what
lousy luck you have, Hiyama-san. I hope you are alright. Thank god I
scanned through the Fame BBS messages. My prayers are with you. Please
Master! Help find your lost love!
[In Kochi, Japan]
(at a get-together party)
"Mori? Morisaki? Is that you sulking by yourself in a corner?"
Taku: Yutaka? Matsuno Yutaka! How are you?
Yutaka: I'm fine. But you don't look so good.
Taku: I have felt better before.
Yutaka: Look out! Fine lady coming our way. Watch out.
"Hello, you two. I had a feeling I would find you two here in your
usual spot."
Yutaka: Yumi-san. Good to see you again.
Taku: Do you know with Rikkako is coming or not?
Yumi: Rik-chan? No, she's not coming. She a hopeless case for you to
figure out.
Taku: I should have known. Something in the stars told me that this
was not the right time and place.
Yumi: I suppose you're right.
Yutaka: Hey, don't be down on account of a girl. You know how icy cold
she is. I mean, I had the privilege of being personally blown off by
her.
Taku: Yeah, I know how she is and all. That's her nature. That's
something she can't change overnight. But I was hoping that this year
would be different. That somehow, she would come around.
Yutaka: We all hope for things to happen. But you just don't
know. Let's not let her dampen our spirits further. Let's have a
drink.
[At the Shin ABCB] (snowing heavily outside)
(Yukari singing on stage with the rest of the band)
(the 3 "Stooges" are there: Hatta, Komatsu, and the slumbering 'Izzy')
Komatsu: Alas! Gawd! It's cold! Where are all the hot babes now?
Hatta: Probably at home, slinkering down in a hot sauna.
Master: Looks like you guys need a hot drink. Here. Complimentary
capuchinos.
Komatsu: You still make that stuff? I thought you quit serving that
here.
Master: I still have my machine in the back. I only use it for special
occasions.
Hatta: Brrr! Thanks Master!
Komatsu: Oh, look at that hot Yukari! Still performing, even on
Christmas day! What a fine babe! Ummm, she looks so delicious, I can
taste her!
Hatta: Too bad she's already takened.
Komatsu: Cheer up man! There's plenty of other fish to catch. Let's
hop on over to the Twins' place.
Hatta: Wish I could. But gotta meet the deadline for next month. We
gonna debut in Jumbo comic, and I want to make it a double-feature for
Yurushite Agerie.
Komatsu: Man, sometimes success is a curse. I thought you were finish
with the drawings already.
Hatta: I am. I have to fill in the captions now.
"I'll do it for ya. "
Komatsu: You're awake?
Izzy: Yez. I'ma awake. Go ahead to ya parties. I am nobody and nobody
to tie me down. I'ma free 'in. So go....go have ya fun.
Hatta: You did do a good job last time.
Izzy: I'll do it again. and again. and again. and again.
Komatsu: Come on buddy. He's begging us. Let him have his own fun
while we have ours.
Hatta: Well ok then. But here. (flips some money on the table)
Hatta: Go ahead and buy yourself a nice Christmas present.
Izzy: Ari-ga-tou. (bares his buck teeth)
(A lady walks in carrying several shopping bags)
Komatsu: Hello honey! (eyes her up and down with his lecherous eyes)
Hatta: What have we here?
"Listen scumbags! I in no mood to play with you."
Komatsu: Wow! We have here a lively one!
Akane: (from behind) Play your tricks on someone else, ok?
Hatta: The Twins! And Akane!
Komatsu: You 3 brought along a friend. How convenient! Want to do some
"slippery" action later on?
Kurumi: In your dreams!
Komatsu: We'd better be going Hatta-man. We know when we're not
wanted!
(The hentai boys leave)
"Thank you for that."
Akane: No problem, Muto-san. We didn't want you to have a bad
impression of our favorite hangout.
Manami: Those two aren't that bad.
Akane: But you gotta set them straight when they talk trash to you.
"I'm glad I bumped into you three."
Kurumi: Yeah, we were just hanging out after Christmas brunch. You had
your Christmas day festivities already with your family?
"Sort of. I love walking in the city."
Akane: Good thing we did meet up. You've been to quite a few of our
meetings. If you have time, we can talk about the upcoming clash.
"I do have some free time now. I would be happy to talk about anything
you like."
Akane: Good. We can talk, woman to woman.
[At Greenwood house]
Hasukawa: We're back. Woah.
Shinohara: Something the matter?
Hasukawa: Oh, it's nothing. I just was thinking how funny this place
felt with everyone gone home for the holidays. So empty and alone.
Shinohara: Only a structure.
Hasukawa: Ah, but there's a lot of history with this structure. It's
was constructed right after the end of World War II during the
reconstruction period headed by General MacArthur. It was designed as
a boys boarding school to introduce the western way of teaching here
in Japan. Since then, it has formed a tradition for the multitude of
classes and students that have passed through its doors. What history
it has known. Alas, we will be the final inhabitants it will know
before its demise.
Shinohara: All things go. Old buildings get torn down. New ones get
built. Things go on.
Hasukawa: I guess you're right. I probably become too attached and too
sentimental for my own good. (touches its walls) I've experienced some
of the best years of my life within its confines. I'm definitely going
to miss it.
Shinohara: Let's go.
Hasukawa: Sure. Go ahead and pick up the stuff you need.
(Shinohara enters rooms and within minutes comes out with a few
gadgetry items)
Hasukawa: Mighty interesting hardware you have there. What is it?
Shinohara: It's a RF modulator module and a detection and signaling
circuit. I need it to construct my GPS system for the hiking
challenge.
Hasukawa: Is that so?
Shinohara: Yes. I hope it gives us a key advantage when you lead the
hike.
Hasukawa: Me? Lead the hike? How come I didn't hear about this?
Shinohara: You must have forgotten. You agreed to participate in the
challenge events as part of your penance to the inhabitants.
Hasukawa: I did, but I thought it was only for that wrestling match.
Shinohara: You must be careful when you make promises sir. Do you wish
to decline?
Hasukawa: (*sigh*) Ok. What is it this time?
Shinohara: A endurance and hiking expedition. A 3 day affair. From
Tokyo, we will travel through Kobe and finally at Kyoto in the
forests. Whichever team can capture the hidden flag in the forests is
declared the victor of the event.
Hasukawa: Such a long hiking trek? Sounds exhausting! Are you kidding
me?
Shinohara: I suggest you prepare for this event by daily exercise
jog. We need to have a better showing this time.
Hasukawa: But what's the point? This place won't be around by that
time. There will be no unity at all.
Shinohara: Perhaps. Things happen. Things change suddenly.
Hasukawa: Well it won't be soon enough. And it's already too late.
Shinohara: This house may be down, and we may be scattered, but will
you not still lead the way?
Hasukawa: Hmm. I haven't been a good administrator at all, and I did
make a commitment to make it up to you all. If that's what the group
wants, then I shall lead you all.
Shinohara: Good. I hope you will prepare.
Hasukawa: (*mock jog in place*) Yep. I will. Practice for my
endurance. That I'll do.
Shinohara: Good sir. Going back to complete my work. Ja!
Hasukawa: (*Whew*) Sure is a wacky guy. But true to the tradition of
Greenwood. Isn't that right my friend? (talking to the walls)
"Excuse me! Are you Hasukawa-san?"
Hasukawa: Yes. How 'd you get in here?
"The door was left open."
Hasukawa: Ah, that would explain it. What do you want?
"I am the county assessor, Hito Ado. We've met before.
Hasukawa: Yes, I remember you. What are you doing here?
"I am here to conduct a inspection of the facilities."
Hasukawa: Now? What for? This place is going to be torn down anyway.
"Just following procedure, sir. I called your residency and I believe
your brother indicated that you would be at the premises already."
Hasukawa: Isn't this a strange time to be doing the inspection?
"On the contrary. The holidays where the building is completely vacant
makes it a convenience to inspect."
Hasukawa: I see. Well, I have to get back home, so will this take
long?
"Yes, it will. If it is a concern, you may leave the keys with me and
I will deposit it back into your mailbox when I am done here."
Hasukawa: Ok. This place is all yours. <at least in a month>
[At the police precinct] "Jackson! In my office now!"
Jackson: Now what, chief?
"I want to know what's going on! NOW! It's been over two weeks and
I've heard nothing from you at all on this case. What are you trying
to hide?"
Jackson: Nothing sir. Things tend to slow down during the holidays.
"You didn't answer my question. Is he or is he not still at large?"
Jackson: Judging from the forensics report and DNA report that I just
got back from the labs, it would seem that it was a positive match
between the recovered, deceased body and the Colonel.
"So, the demon has gone to hell. Good. You're off the case now. I'll
have Nogami reassign you. Take the rest of the day off."
Jackson: Will do. <But I'm not off the case just yet...>
[At Ikeda Temple]
Hasukawa: Mitsuru sempai!
Ikeda Mitsuru: Yo Suka! Good for you to drop by. Here for prayers?
Hasukawa: Nah. Just came back from Greenwood house. An inspector is
there right now surveying the whole place before they tear it
down. Isn't that sickening?
Ikeda: Yep. Actually, it's funny.
Hasukawa: What's so funny?
Ikeda: Remember our resident ghost?
Hasukawa: You mean Misako, the one who use to hound Shinobu?
Ikeda: Ping pong. Today is her birthday!
Hasukawa: It is. How'd you know?
Ikeda: Did a little research into her after our little encounter with
her. So did you come by to vent and rant?
Hasukawa: No, no. Of course not. Just wanted to wish you a Merry
Christmas.
Ikeda: Same to you. Although officially, I must remain neutral in
regards to my perception of this Christian holiday, being a Buddhist
and all.
Hasukawa: Very funny.
Ikeda: How are you feeling after your bruising?
Hasukawa: I'm still in one piece.
Ikeda: So, have you asked that kawaii Kurumi girl out yet?
Hasukawa: Are you kidding me? You must be nuts! She practically sent
me to the infirmary!
Ikeda: He-he. Still pining away for Igarashi?
Hasukawa: Just a bit. The major thing that's gnawing at me is where
she went.
Ikeda: Well, no time to slack off now. You've already wasted one
semester so you are behind, as usual. Now you have to do your best to
catch up. Otherwise, you're never be a doctor.
Hasukawa: Ironic, isn't it? I can't even stand the sight of my own
blood and I want to be a doctor.
Ikeda: It's just the type of person you are. Helping people is your
forte. Even if it means that you suffer. That's your most endearing
trait. Don't you forget it.
Hasukawa: I won't. Thanks sempai. I'm glad we had this talk.
Ikeda: Hey, what are friends for? (flashes smile)
[Back at Ryusei's penthouse]
(Nagasi staggers in, drunk)
Ryusei: Back so early? Had your fun?
Nagasi: You know I did. Hey...where're you going?
Ryusei: Another trip. Someone must be keeping watch over the
"company." Ja! (exits out the door)
Nagasi: What a cold bastard! Leaving me here all alone tonight. Humph!
(she tries to walk, but stumbles across; as she grabs hold of the
table, she knocks over the fax tray)
Nagasi: What's this...(picks up fax) Hmmm....what have we here...Miss
Hikaru Hiyama ....kidnaped...oh my...what a unfortunate accident.
HA HA HA HA HA!!!
[At Greenwood house, in the evening]
Inspector: East wing complete. West wing now.
"Hello!"
Inspector: (holding a flashlight) Who was that? Who said that?
"I did! I'm surprised I get to see a live person on my birthday.
Inspector: I can't see you?
"I'm right above you!"
(Inspector looks up) G-g-ghost. Wait...this must be a trick.
"You want to see tricks? Ok."
(The girl ghost starts to glide aimlessly around him.)
"You're so nice to keep me company here. I hardly get to meet anybody
since I got hit by a car here."
Inspector: Ya! Argh! Help! I'm outta here!
[January 1995]
[Back at Ryokurin Ryo]
(Hasukawa walking back to the house)
Hasukawa: I better get there early this time so I can see everyone off
before they pack up and leave...ShuN!
Shun: Hi Suka!
Hasukawa: You're early. I was hoping to beat you here this time.
Shun: You have to get up pretty early in the morning to do that.
Hasukawa: I guess so. How was your holidays?
Shun: It was super!
Hasukawa: Good. Glad to hear it. So have you decided where you were
going to stay now? Perhaps at the university dorms?
Shun: Not at the dorms. So staid and sanitary. No, I decided that I'm
staying right here.
Hasukawa: Very funny. You know we only have 3 days to clear out
everything before they start the tear-down process.
Shun: No Suka. I don't think so.
(enters hall to see the dorm residents there)
"SURPRISE!"
[End of Chapter 12]
[[End of Interlude Book C]]