Robert Kwong
4th February 2005, 02:11 AM
Hi,
This is the second of my 3 posts for today.
This is Kimagure Orange Road fanfiction.
This is from my HARD|<oR Series Book D edition: The Book of 4.
This is Chapter 8: Prelude to Reckoning
Enjoy!
-------------------------------------------------------------
H A R D
|< O R
Book D: The Book of Four
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 Oct 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 Orange Road Series. This is the 4th book in my fanfiction
series. The timeline for this occurs after ShinKOR II novel and covers
some details in Shin Kor III and beyond.
HardKor Web Site (With Disclaimer and back-stories:
Book A and Book B chapters)
http://www-ucsee.eecs.berkeley.edu/~rk/HardKor.html
My SuperPage for the General Kimagure Orange Road enthusiast
http://www-ucsee.eecs.berkeley.edu/~rk/Kor.html
My contact email address for comments or further correspondence:
rk@soda.berkeley.edu
Feel free to email me your impressions and suggestions for the series.
Thanks for reading my stories and making it one the most popular KOR
fanfic on the web! (40000 can't be wrong!)I hope you enjoy reading it
as I did writing it. Thanks again.
Robert Kwong
Ark Productions -99-
Legend:
H = Hikaru Hiyama
M = Ayukawa Madoka
R = Ryusei Haroken
K = Kasuga Kyosuke
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
Tasuya = Tasuya Youta
[] - denotes scene changes
() - indicates person thinking to himself
(**) - indicates action or special effects.
Book D: Chapter 8: Prelude to Reckoning
[Outside the Shin ABCB]
Akane: Hey buster! (points to Shinohara)
Shinohara: (He looks up from his bike) Yeah? What?
Akane: You lucky bastard! You won this round of the competition!
Shinohara: So ka? As I expected. So we are even now.
Akane: Let's end this petty affair once and for all. The final
challenge to decide everything!
Shinohara: Fine by me. Your pick.
Akane: The last challenge is the all-city motorcycle race. Winner
takes all.
Shinohara: Agreed. We shall see who is the best gender yet!
Manami: Wow, I never saw such fire from Akane before.
Kurumi: Yeah Akane. You really told him off.
Akane: I just gotta do what a woman's got to do.
(as the girls storm off, Akane turns her head and looks back towards
Shun)
Akane: <A double loss for me tonight>
[The next day]
[At the Ayukawa mansion]
Spooky voice: "Madoka...Madoka...Why have you forsaken me?"
Madoka: SYUJIROU? Is that you? Are you a ghost trying to contact me?
Please. Where are you?
"I am all around you. I have been always with you in your
memories. Search your heart. That is where you will find me.
Madoka: Why have you chosen to contact me now? Why don't you rest your
spirit?
"I am all alone. I need you by my side. Please come with me. Join me
in my realm."
Madoka: (stammers) I-I-I don't know if I can do that. I am in love
with another now.
"You cannot forget your first true love. You know you can't marry him
as long as I am lurking here."
Madoka: What are you saying? You are on the other side now! I can't
even see you!
"If you want to find me, you know where to look. Look closely...very
closely...
(We see a man, whose face is darkened, carrying a package and
approaching Madoka. And on it are the words "Yamazumi Kensetsu.")
Madoka suddenly wakes up!
Madoka: Yamazumi Ken-set-su.
[At Tokyo university]
Muroke: Why are you so bummed out today? We won the competition,
right?
Taku Morisaki: I wonder if the price of victory was too high. I was
dumped by Rikkako.
Muroke: You mean that girl you were looking for all along? No way! But
why?
Taku: It was all due to her Tokyo pride. She told me she couldn't go
on seeing me as long as I was in league with such a despicable
misogynist as Shinohara-san. I told her it was just a competition and
nothing more, but she wouldn't hear of it. She said that she was a
loyal member of the group and it would betray the trust of her fellow
"sisters" by continuing to see me. So she said that was that and she
hung up.
Muroke: Man, that's rough. We talk more about this when I get back. In
the meantime, I have an appointment to keep!
[At XYZ Studios]
Nagasi: Here's your coffee, extra black with no sugar, just the way
you like it. You sure look like you need it. You look simply terrible!
Ryusei: For your information, I stayed up the whole night. As such, in
my present condition, I can be quite irritable and highly irrational.
Nagasi: Well, Excuuuseee me! I was about to suggest a massage and
facial but forget it! I know when I'm not appreciated. (turns her
head) Lookee here. My loverboy is back. Hi Syu-ji-rou!
(In enters Syujirou Mishima, who waves at Nagasi)
Mishima: You require my presence?
Ryusei: Yes, I do. I was looking for you. Excuse me for the other
day. There's a lot we need to catch up on. Leave us now Nagasi. We
have business to discuss.
[Kyosuke leaving for the Cable 12 station]
Kyosuke: Are you sure it's alright that I leave Madoka here with you
guys?
Ojiichan: Ho, ho ho! You worry way too much grandson. You need to
loosen up. You're only young once.
Kyosuke: Well ok then. Tell Madoka when she wakes up that I'll be back
soon.
Ojiichan: Ah hoi, hoi. We'll take care of the pretty angel for you.
[Hikaru in Hokkaido]
My plane touch down softly back amid the grassy surroundings of my
beloved homeland of Japan. As I exited the plane and breathed in the
air, I felt a certain surge of energy in my body, as if I was being
renewed again. Yes, it was great to be back on my old stomping
grounds.
I chose this time to visit my parents in Hokkaido. I wasn't sure if I
wanted to go down to Tokyo to meet up with Madoka and Kyosuke. This
was suppose to be a relaxation retreat for me. I mean, it would be fun
being with them. But I wouldn't necessary get any rest at all. And
they would be back to New York to see me perform. After their wedding.
Madoka-san had written me email before that they were planning their
nuptials sometime in May, which was a wedding month. After she
graduated from Waseda with her Master's degree in the fine arts. I
quickly congratulated her on her good fortune. I was glad for both of
them for finally deciding to tie the knot. They were meant for each
other. At least that's what I told myself every time my feeling for
Kyosuke would creep up.
You might ask why I was still hung up on Kyosuke. Why I don't just get
over him and get on with my life. I have in some ways. I acknowledged
our breakup that fateful night. I kept my feelings for him bottled up
and controlled. But you can't just forget your first love
overnight. But a part of me always would yearn for him.
Sometimes, that part of me would manifest itself during critical
situations. Like the time he and I were all alone in the hotel. Or
when I was kidnaped and I had no-one to turn to. It was in those
desperate situations that I would think of him to come and save me. He
was the closest living male friend I knew.
But no more. With their marriage, I could finally close that chapter
of us together forever. I would be able to dance more confidently
having that closure. Then I can go on to bigger and better things.
Although I could not attend the wedding in person, because of my dance
schedule, and because I didn't want to cause a scene should I do
something rash, I instead got the bride and groom a gift. Courtesy of
my encounter with Miss Vera Wang. (taps the hatbox beside her inside
the cab)
[At Cable Station 12]
Kyosuke: How are things Tamaki-san! And what's up with the glasses?
Aso Tamaki: Things are splendid Kyosuke! Here! Have some champagne.
Kyosuke: What's the happy occasion?
Station director: Haven't you heard? Tamaki-chan just won the Aoki
award for excellence in journalism!
Kyosuke: She did? Congratulations! But how?
Station Director: The little documentary program profile based on your
photographs. Good job Tamaki-san!
Aso Tamaki: Arigatou, but the credit all belongs to you. (points to
Kyosuke)
Kyosuke: What do you mean?
Aso Tamaki: Your pictures conveyed the true meaning of the conflict. I
only narrated.
Kyosuke: You may have done the profiling of the show. But you still
deserve all the credit. So how do you feel?
Aso Tamaki: It is still a shock to me, happening so sudden.
Station director: Tamaki was a dark horse among all the submittals.
Her piece was entered in at the last minute of judging.
Kyosuke: Well good for you. It must have made a good impression.
Aso Tamaki: You're too modest for your own good. We need to toast this
happy occasion for the station! Kumpai!
[At XYZ Studios]
Ryusei: This is the last of the blueprints. I want this built to exact
specifications.
Mishima: Our company will conform to your specifications.
Ryusei: What is the current progress of the area to be cleared?
Mishima: The zoning and environmental departments have given their
approval and the permits for the redevelopment. It was quite
costly. In the end, everyone got their cut.
Ryusei: And what else?
Mishima: The second phase is the procurement of the properties
remaining on the block. We have in our control 70% of all
buildings. It is only a matter of time the rest will sell out.
Ryusei: Excellent. And what of the demolition phase?
Mishima: Some delays may occur. It is near a school district, so great
care must be taken to transport the equipment and to remove the debris
from the fallen buildings.
Ryusei: I don't care how you do it, but destroy the old buildings as
fast as you can. I like to lessen the likelihood of intervention
should some bureaucrat get some religion.
Mishima: It is understood.
Ryusei: Good. You may go conduct your business now.
(pulls out a cigarette form his golden cigarette case with the dragon
emblem on it)
[Hokkaido]
I had arrived home to Hokkaido. Nothing really special happened. I
greeted my mama and papa-san and unloaded my luggage in my own room.
Still the same tense moments with mama-san, as to be expected. I had a
better time with Papa-san.
After some exchanges, I volunteered to out to the market to buy some
food materials. I was going to cook for them tonight.
As I was walking outside...
"Hikari-chan? You Hikaru Hiyama?"
I turned around and saw an old man, walking with a cane, trodding
towards me.
"Honto! It is you!"
I didn't know who he was at first glance so I kind of freaked, but
when I took a closer look at him, I saw it was Yuusaku Hino's
grandfather.
Hikaru: Hino Ojiichan!
"You come back to area again!"
Hikaru: Ah yes. I'm back from New York to visit up with my folks.
"Good child. So long, so long. Might you walk me back?
"I'll be honored to!"
[At Waseda University]
Manami is at a computer terminal, typing in some email, when she
notices Akane flashing by the door and then leaving.
Manami rushes out!
Manami: Wait up Akane! (enters the girls lavatory)
Akane: What? I wasn't looking for you!
Manami: You look troubled. I can feel it from far away. What's wrong?
Akane: Absolutely nothing I tell you. Nothing at all.
Manami: Something is bothering you. Otherwise, you wouldn't be acting
this strange. Come on. Fess up.
Akane: I tell you nothing is up. (looks into the mirror)
Manami: Your eyes look kind of puffy. Have you been crying?
Akane: No. Of course not. Tough girls don't cry.
Manami: You have been crying! Don't try to hide it from you. I can see
through you. Something is really bothering you. I am here to
listen. Please confide in me.
Akane: Cruel irony to be talking to you about this here.
Manami: Who so?
Akane: Because it was here where I found out the shock of my life.
Manami: What was it?
Akane: Shun-san's true identity.
Manami: You mean...oh...I see....you thought he was a girl.
Akane: Well who wouldn't? The voice, the hair, he had the whole act
down pat. I feel so awful not being to see through that. It makes me
hate men even more!
Manami: But there has to be more to it than that. Otherwise, you
wouldn't have been sobbing over it. Could it be that you have feelings
for him?
Akane: That's preposterous. And that's none of your business.
Manami: I see. It must be eating you up inside that Shun, being a guy,
is also in full league with Shinohara's group now.
Akane: What I feel for him before is irrelevant. What matters now is
the ending of this conflict. I want to get on with this once and for
all. I want to rub Shinohara's face into the mud and make him eat dirt
and beg for mercy!
Manami: <How scary it is when Akane is riled up like this!>
[At the sect place]
Zumi Shijama: We're here!
Koji Muroke: I can see that. Looks like some assembly hall.
Shijama: Well it should! That is where we are congregate and meditate.
"Shijama-kun. You brought a friend today."
Shijama: Yes, caremaster. He wishes to learn the supreme truth as
well. Is it alright that he attends?
"Anyone who wishes to seek the truth can attend. In the eyes of
Asahara, we are his children who are wandering lost. That is why we
need his guidance."
Shijama: Here. I almost forgot. (hands him a box)
"Bless you my child. We will put it to good use."
Muroke: (whispers) What is that?
Shijama: Just a little something extra I got from the lab. They won't
miss it.
Muroke: <Is he smuggling chemicals for them?>
Shijama: Come on now. Here.
(hands him a white robe)
Muroke: What's this?
Shijama: We need to wear this for the ceremony. You can leave your
stuff here. They will take it to the coatroom.
Muroke: If you say so. (pulls the hood over his head) <I feel like
Spock now wearing that white tericloth robe in Star Trek III>
We walked along a hallway, and I was busy scanning the doors to and
fro. We finally came up to a big room where everyone was already
gathered.
"Brothers! Enter and take your positions quickly, for the Supreme
Truth waits for no one."
(As people are entering, they take what looks like candy being handed
out by the attendant)
Muroke: Now what is this white thing?
Shijama: The blessed mint. It symbolizes our willingness to learn the
truth.
Muroke: Does it?
Shijama: It helps the words that are spoken here resonate in our
heads. (pops it into his mouth and then looks at Muroke)
Muroke: Well ok. (puts it into his mouth as well)
Shijama: Here comes the Head Master.
"Welcome, my children! All who wish to learn the way must revere our
great leader Asahara-san, our founder. Today, we will discuss
sacrifice. There are times where we must sacrifice ourselves
completely in order to attain the greater truth. That is why we
encourage donations to fund our operations here. But in itself,
sacrifice can be a salvation into attaining the inner truth. We
deceive ourselves by adorning ourselves with gaudy trinkets and
clothes. Our society has grown so decadent and superficial that you
are judged more by what you have and what you wear than the person you
are inside. In giving up your worldy possessions, you are left with
yourself. From that standpoint, you can begin the path to
understanding who you are, not what you have.
But sacrifice alone is not enough! Unifying the sacrifices towards the
one goal intensifies the power of the truth. With each individual
sacrifice, it builds up the outer spirit which binds us. That outer
spirit is the goodness of Shoko Asahara, our founder and creator. In
giving up as much of what we o own, we build up the strength of the
overall one. The one who speaks to us. The one we all feel. Yes, that
is the little voice inside of you; that spirit that makes us who we
are. That is what the founder wants you to find. The Supreme Truth
within us all. Let us close our eyes and meditate now to commence our
search for the truth. Let it speak to you...let it come to you
naturally...So pray... Aum......
Muroke: <good time to sneak out now...>
[Back to Hokkaido]
Hikaru: We're here.
Hino Grandfather: Arigatou.
Hikaru: You're welcome. I was happy to walk with you.
Hino Grandfather: Might you come in for tea?
Hikaru: I would like to, but I have to be going.
Hino Grandfather: No trouble you then. But before you go, I'll give
you gift.
Hikaru: No, you don't have to.
(The grandfather ignores her and proceeds up to a peach tree and
plucks one of the fruit. He then hands it to her)
Hikaru: A peach?
Hino Grandfather: I am foolish old man.
Hikaru: No, no. I like it. Just that no one has ever given me fruit as
a gift before.
Hino Grandfather: It special fruit.
Hikaru: Really? How so?
Hino Grandfather: Tree is special in the heart. I remember my grandson
from it. Fruit from tree I planted for when Yuusaku first found.
Hikaru: Found? What do you mean?
Hino Grandfather: Oi, you know not. But alright let you know. You best
friend, only friend of Yuu. So I tell you secret.
Hikaru: What is the secret about Yuu-kun?
Hino Grandfather: Back when I fisherman, around this time, I found
this wee babe floating in basket in river. He was wrapped in
red-orange cloth and look only a few days old. I took him and and
contact the people in town, but they did not know who it belong to.
My daughter and son-in-law were there as well and they fell in love
with him. So they took him in and raised him like their son. When
leave they went, I plant peach tree here to remember boy I found.
Hikaru: Oh.....
Hino Grandfather: Hino spirit still lie within tree. So please take
this fruit.
Hikaru: I shall. Thank for telling me this. I understand what he was
feeling now.
As she walks away, she takes out the red-orange cloth that Yuusaku had
given her on that fateful fortnight, wrapping the peach in it.
Hikaru: Momotaro kid.
[Back to the sect place]
Muroke: (lowers the hood and wipes the sweat off his forehead) Woah!
How did I get pass those guards? Man, I can't be in this spy business!
"Come in #2. Come in!"
Muroke: (speaks into a transmitter in an exasperated voice) Will you
lower your tone!? You're going to blow my cover Kaori!
"Sorry pip-squeak. See anything suspicious?"
Muroke: Not yet. I'm just slipped out into the hallway. I'm going to
do some reconnaissance. Where's #1 anyway? He suppose to be my
emergency backup in case something goes wrong.
"He ain't here yet. You're on your own kid."
(*Rough*)
"Shut up mutt! Get your furry paws off of me!"
(Muroke switches off transmitter."
Muroke: I guess I'm really on my own now. Where to now?
[Back at Ayukawa mansion]
Kyosuke: I'm home!
(Sees ojiichan watching TV)
Kyosuke: Where's obaachan?
Ojiichan: Going to market. This Jirou Shogun talk show is a hoot!
Non-stop action!
Kyosuke: Where' Madoka?
Ojiichan: Should be upstairs.
Kyosuke: (yells out) Madoka! That's strange. Is she playing with me?
(checks the den, the kitchen, the bedroom, and then the bathroom; last
he checks the driveway)
Kyosuke: She's gone! How could you let her go?
Ojiichan: She is? I didn't notice.
(Kyosuke slaps his hand to his face)
[Sect hallway]
Muroke opens a door and closes it again.
Muroke: Nothing again. I'm beginning to think there's nothing really
here. Last door here.
(sees a sign on the door that says "Authorized Personnel Only"
Muroke: Gotta be careful here. (puts his ear against the door to
listen for sounds; tries to open it but find that it is locked)
Muroke: Time for super spy lock-pick.
(takes out a pen and twists it to reveal a lock-pick mechanism; sticks
it into the lock expertly and after a few jiggles, unlocks it)
Muroke: There we go. Let's see what we have here. Woah! Mother-lode!
(sees a secret laboratory, with beakers and chemical apparatus
everywhere. )
Muroke: This is interesting! (takes out same pen which in reality also
doubles as a spy camera and starts to take pictures with it)
(see some papers with formulas written on it)
Muroke: A few snaps here wouldn't hurt.
(hears footsteps approaching)
Muroke: <Shit! Someone's coming.>
(looks to and fro and then suddenly darts under the table)
(2 men enter)
"Curious. I thought I locked this door before I left."
"You should not be so lax with the security here."
"I understand Zenbata-san. But we are not here to trifle with
particulars, are we? "
"So what is the latest progress now?"
"Well using this formula here, we were able to extend the duration of
the containment compound here by another 20%. Now it should be able to
last 25 minutes before complete breakdown."
"Good. (picks up the paper) Have you told anyone of this yet?"
"No,not yet."
"You don't need to. I will make the report on your behalf. Keep
working on it though."
"If you wish it, then it shall be. My only goal is to serve the great
Shoko Ashara. "
"As for security, I will take care of it. I will affix a dead-bolt
master lock in front. "
Muroke: <Oh crap! How am I going to get out of here?>
[Shin ABCB]
Izzy: Urgh! Hangover...
Master: You didn't have anything to drink!
Izzy: That explains why then...
(phone rings)
Master: Hello? Ahh, Hikaru-chan! Good to hear your voice again. How
are things here? It's fine here. How are you? What? You're in Hokkaido
now? Too bad you can't come by the place here. I'm sure you're come
when you're in town.
(in rushes Kyosuke)
Kyosuke: MASTER! Have you seen Madoka?
Izzy: Can't cha see he's on the phone with Hikaru?
Kyosuke: What? Hikaru is calling?
Master: (cups his hand over the receiver) You seem might anxious
Kyosuke-kun. Do you want to talk to her?
Kyosuke: Uh...yeah, sure. (takes the receiver) Hello? How are you
doing Hikaru? Didn't know you come back from Japan already. There's a
matter I wish to talk to you about, but I want to talk to you
privately. Can I get your address there? (gets a pen out of his pocket
and starts to scribble on the napkins) Ok. Got it. I have to go now.
(rushes out the door)
Izzy: He must still have the hots for her. What a juicy story this
could be. Makes me want to write again...
[At the sect's secret lab]
As the chemist departs the lab and locks it behind him...
Muroke: (switching on transmitter) Breaker, breaker. Big Mamma, come
in.
Kaori: Finally back. What now?
Muroke: I'm trapped in what seems to be a lab area. And they locked
the door behind me. I need to get out of here! Is #1 there yet?
Kaori: Nah.
Muroke: I'm dead then.
Kaori: Cheer up! There must be a way out. Are there any windows?
Muroke: Nooo!
Kaori: Any other doors?
Muroke: Nope.
Kaori: There must be some opening around there. Look around your
surroundings.
Muroke: The only thing I can see is just a vent.
Kaori: Then that's ya ticket out of there.
Muroke: But I don't know if I can fit through it or not. Or where it
leads to?
Kaori: Better than getting trapped there.
Muroke: I guess so. Fine. (takes out pen again and presses a button
which pops out a screwdriver head at the top; uses it to unscrew the
vent)
Muroke: <Vent is barely enough for me to fit through. I suppose they
need a vent this big to flush out all the fumes here.>
(crawls in and places the cover back on. takes out pen again and uses
it as a flashlight this time)
(crawls 15 meters and makes a right turn which eventually leads him to
another vent)
Muroke: Lucky! I'm arrived at the bathroom!
(removes cover and gets out)
Muroke: Better get back before I get discovered! (puts on hood again)
(*Smack!*)
(the bathroom door hits Muroke's cheek square!)
Muroke: Arrgh... (looks up in shock!) <Colonel Kijiama!>
"Excuse me. You need help?"
Muroke: No, no. I'm ok! Need to go back to mediate. Bye now!
[At Yamazumi Kensetsu main office]
(We see Inspector Jackson enter in.)
Jackson: This mystery man is as slippery as a worm. But I'll get to
the bottom of this.
Receptionist: May I help you?
Jackson: Yes...I was sent down from the police department to
coordinate the clearing of one of your construction sites. But they
must have gotten their names mixed up and I am at a loss for the
person I suppose to be in contact name. But I believe he just came
into town, and from the description at the station, he has a stocky
build, about 185 cm, with a stubble chin.
Receptionist: You must be speaking of Mishima-san, the construction
manager. He is currently not in right now. Might I take a message for
you?
Jackson: That's ok. Can you right his name down for me so I don't
forget? I'm bad with names.
Receptionist: Certainly. He must be really popular today.
Jackson: What do you mean?
Receptionist: Another lady just dropped by before you inquiring about
him as well. She too gave almost a similar physical description of
him. She left her name and number instead. (points to paper on the
desk)
Jackson turns his head to glance at the name on the paper: Ayukawa
Madoka!
[Outside the Blackjack Cafe]
(Madoka is sitting outside in her red sports car, peering at it)
Madoka: <It's been a long, long time since I have been back to this
place. Where I first met you Syujirou-san. Are you really alive
again?
[In the meditation hall of the sect]
Zumi Shijama: Hey Muroke? Where were you?
Muroke: argh wah wah wah.
Shijama: You don't sound too good.
Muroke: Sorry. I had a really bad stomach-ache and spent most of the
time in the bathroom. Is it over yet?
Shijama: Just about.
Muroke: I think I take off early then, if that's alright with you.
Shijama: Sure. I'll be staying late so meet you back at the house.
Muroke: Ok. See ya. <Ahh! My mouth!>
[Kyosuke walking along the streets]
Kyosuke: (walking with hands in his pocket, head slumped) Where could
she be? I check the conservatory, the university, and the park.
(sees the red sports car next to Blackjack Cafe)
Kyosuke: Madoka! There you are! But what are you hanging out here for?
(sees her looking longingly through the window of the cafe)
[Inside the van]
Kaori: You look frazzled kid!
Muroke: I feel like crap. My mouth still aches.
Kaori: Eugh! What's that?
Muroke: Some sort of mint. I spit it out when I got out. Tasted funny,
so I thought we should examine it.
"I'm back!"
Muroke: There you are #1! Where were you?
#1: Busy. So. What did you find?
Muroke: Kaori got the camera pen. You can examine the pictures
yourself. For myself, I'm retiring from the spy business. Oww! (rubs
his cheek)
#1: Nasty blow you got there. Dentist drill time for you. Let me refer
you to one.
Muroke: Oh no! Not the drill!
[At Yakushima Island]
(inside the big, dark mansion atop a hill)
(We hear the metallic balls of Goro Shimazaki clanging in his hand, as
he sits in his study)
(We suddenly hear a rustling sound)
"I have returned, my master."
Goro: You best bring me good tidings.
"I have. The clan has finally formulated the formula."
Goro: I see. Who else knows of it?
"Only me and the master chemist."
Goro: Are you sure?
"I am positive."
Goro: Still, I cannot take any chances. We have no need for Asahara's
assistance no more. I suggest we dispose of him and his group, lest
anyone should possess the secret.
"You wish is my bidding. Phase Two shall begin."
Goro: Don't screw up like last time, or it may be your last time.
"Understood."
[At the Ayukawa Mansion]
Kyosuke: Is there something you want to talk to me about?
Madoka: Like what?
Kyosuke: Like why you ran off today. Was something troubling you?
Madoka: No. I just felt like going out. I was cooped up inside too
long.
Kyosuke: You should let someone know next time?
Madoka: Why should I? I'm my own woman. I should be able to come and
go as I please.
Kyosuke: Yeah, but you're not been yourself these past few days. When
you were gone, I thought something bad might have happened to you.
Madoka: I don't need you to protect me all the time! I can fend for
myself.
Kyosuke: I know, but I...
Madoka: I don't feel too well. Can you leave me alone now?
Kyosuke: Uhh, ok then. But if anything's the matter, feel free to find
me.
Madoka: Noted. Goodbye now.
(bedroom door slams)
Kyosuke: What is wrong with you Madoka? Are you possessed or what?
I've got to get to the bottom of this. Maybe Hikaru might know
something.
[Back at Ryokurin Ryo]
Taku: Are you alright?
Muroke: Nah. I'm feelin' lousy. (points to his swollen cheek) And what
is that drilling noise?
Taku: It's coming from Shinohara-san's and Shijama-san's room. Let's
see what they're up to.
(as they enter)
(They see Shinohara wearing a welder's mask and carrying a blowtorch)
Muroke: What are you doing?
Shinohara: What does it look like?
Muroke: Are you crazy? You're dismantling your Hawley!
Shinohara: It needs to be super-charged for the race.
Taku: You mean for the final challenge.
Shinohara: That's correct. I don't aim to lose.
Taku: Do you need some help?
Shinohara: No. It will be all by myself. One on one versus their
champion.
Muroke: You're just reverting back to your selfish ways.
Shinohara: I don't need your amateur help.
Muroke: Suit yourself. If you want to lose alone by yourself, that's
your problem.
Shinohara: If you nothing more to say, then get out.
Muroke: Fine! I now when I'm not wanted!
(Sunday)
Kyosuke: Madoka hasn't talked to me in three days. I gotta find out
what's the matter.
Kyosuke: Ojiichan.
Ojiichan: What up?
Kyosuke: I need you to watch over this house and Madoka for me. I
making a little visit. I should be back soon.
Ojiichan: Hai hai Kyosuke. (watching baseball) Go Daiji go!
Kyosuke: Oh brother! Time to use the Power! (flashes and disappears)
[At the subway]
We see a mysterious maintenance worker walking along the abandon
tracks. He looks back, and we see it is the face of Colonel Kijiama
Zenbata!
[End of Chapter]
This is the second of my 3 posts for today.
This is Kimagure Orange Road fanfiction.
This is from my HARD|<oR Series Book D edition: The Book of 4.
This is Chapter 8: Prelude to Reckoning
Enjoy!
-------------------------------------------------------------
H A R D
|< O R
Book D: The Book of Four
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 Oct 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 Orange Road Series. This is the 4th book in my fanfiction
series. The timeline for this occurs after ShinKOR II novel and covers
some details in Shin Kor III and beyond.
HardKor Web Site (With Disclaimer and back-stories:
Book A and Book B chapters)
http://www-ucsee.eecs.berkeley.edu/~rk/HardKor.html
My SuperPage for the General Kimagure Orange Road enthusiast
http://www-ucsee.eecs.berkeley.edu/~rk/Kor.html
My contact email address for comments or further correspondence:
rk@soda.berkeley.edu
Feel free to email me your impressions and suggestions for the series.
Thanks for reading my stories and making it one the most popular KOR
fanfic on the web! (40000 can't be wrong!)I hope you enjoy reading it
as I did writing it. Thanks again.
Robert Kwong
Ark Productions -99-
Legend:
H = Hikaru Hiyama
M = Ayukawa Madoka
R = Ryusei Haroken
K = Kasuga Kyosuke
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
Tasuya = Tasuya Youta
[] - denotes scene changes
() - indicates person thinking to himself
(**) - indicates action or special effects.
Book D: Chapter 8: Prelude to Reckoning
[Outside the Shin ABCB]
Akane: Hey buster! (points to Shinohara)
Shinohara: (He looks up from his bike) Yeah? What?
Akane: You lucky bastard! You won this round of the competition!
Shinohara: So ka? As I expected. So we are even now.
Akane: Let's end this petty affair once and for all. The final
challenge to decide everything!
Shinohara: Fine by me. Your pick.
Akane: The last challenge is the all-city motorcycle race. Winner
takes all.
Shinohara: Agreed. We shall see who is the best gender yet!
Manami: Wow, I never saw such fire from Akane before.
Kurumi: Yeah Akane. You really told him off.
Akane: I just gotta do what a woman's got to do.
(as the girls storm off, Akane turns her head and looks back towards
Shun)
Akane: <A double loss for me tonight>
[The next day]
[At the Ayukawa mansion]
Spooky voice: "Madoka...Madoka...Why have you forsaken me?"
Madoka: SYUJIROU? Is that you? Are you a ghost trying to contact me?
Please. Where are you?
"I am all around you. I have been always with you in your
memories. Search your heart. That is where you will find me.
Madoka: Why have you chosen to contact me now? Why don't you rest your
spirit?
"I am all alone. I need you by my side. Please come with me. Join me
in my realm."
Madoka: (stammers) I-I-I don't know if I can do that. I am in love
with another now.
"You cannot forget your first true love. You know you can't marry him
as long as I am lurking here."
Madoka: What are you saying? You are on the other side now! I can't
even see you!
"If you want to find me, you know where to look. Look closely...very
closely...
(We see a man, whose face is darkened, carrying a package and
approaching Madoka. And on it are the words "Yamazumi Kensetsu.")
Madoka suddenly wakes up!
Madoka: Yamazumi Ken-set-su.
[At Tokyo university]
Muroke: Why are you so bummed out today? We won the competition,
right?
Taku Morisaki: I wonder if the price of victory was too high. I was
dumped by Rikkako.
Muroke: You mean that girl you were looking for all along? No way! But
why?
Taku: It was all due to her Tokyo pride. She told me she couldn't go
on seeing me as long as I was in league with such a despicable
misogynist as Shinohara-san. I told her it was just a competition and
nothing more, but she wouldn't hear of it. She said that she was a
loyal member of the group and it would betray the trust of her fellow
"sisters" by continuing to see me. So she said that was that and she
hung up.
Muroke: Man, that's rough. We talk more about this when I get back. In
the meantime, I have an appointment to keep!
[At XYZ Studios]
Nagasi: Here's your coffee, extra black with no sugar, just the way
you like it. You sure look like you need it. You look simply terrible!
Ryusei: For your information, I stayed up the whole night. As such, in
my present condition, I can be quite irritable and highly irrational.
Nagasi: Well, Excuuuseee me! I was about to suggest a massage and
facial but forget it! I know when I'm not appreciated. (turns her
head) Lookee here. My loverboy is back. Hi Syu-ji-rou!
(In enters Syujirou Mishima, who waves at Nagasi)
Mishima: You require my presence?
Ryusei: Yes, I do. I was looking for you. Excuse me for the other
day. There's a lot we need to catch up on. Leave us now Nagasi. We
have business to discuss.
[Kyosuke leaving for the Cable 12 station]
Kyosuke: Are you sure it's alright that I leave Madoka here with you
guys?
Ojiichan: Ho, ho ho! You worry way too much grandson. You need to
loosen up. You're only young once.
Kyosuke: Well ok then. Tell Madoka when she wakes up that I'll be back
soon.
Ojiichan: Ah hoi, hoi. We'll take care of the pretty angel for you.
[Hikaru in Hokkaido]
My plane touch down softly back amid the grassy surroundings of my
beloved homeland of Japan. As I exited the plane and breathed in the
air, I felt a certain surge of energy in my body, as if I was being
renewed again. Yes, it was great to be back on my old stomping
grounds.
I chose this time to visit my parents in Hokkaido. I wasn't sure if I
wanted to go down to Tokyo to meet up with Madoka and Kyosuke. This
was suppose to be a relaxation retreat for me. I mean, it would be fun
being with them. But I wouldn't necessary get any rest at all. And
they would be back to New York to see me perform. After their wedding.
Madoka-san had written me email before that they were planning their
nuptials sometime in May, which was a wedding month. After she
graduated from Waseda with her Master's degree in the fine arts. I
quickly congratulated her on her good fortune. I was glad for both of
them for finally deciding to tie the knot. They were meant for each
other. At least that's what I told myself every time my feeling for
Kyosuke would creep up.
You might ask why I was still hung up on Kyosuke. Why I don't just get
over him and get on with my life. I have in some ways. I acknowledged
our breakup that fateful night. I kept my feelings for him bottled up
and controlled. But you can't just forget your first love
overnight. But a part of me always would yearn for him.
Sometimes, that part of me would manifest itself during critical
situations. Like the time he and I were all alone in the hotel. Or
when I was kidnaped and I had no-one to turn to. It was in those
desperate situations that I would think of him to come and save me. He
was the closest living male friend I knew.
But no more. With their marriage, I could finally close that chapter
of us together forever. I would be able to dance more confidently
having that closure. Then I can go on to bigger and better things.
Although I could not attend the wedding in person, because of my dance
schedule, and because I didn't want to cause a scene should I do
something rash, I instead got the bride and groom a gift. Courtesy of
my encounter with Miss Vera Wang. (taps the hatbox beside her inside
the cab)
[At Cable Station 12]
Kyosuke: How are things Tamaki-san! And what's up with the glasses?
Aso Tamaki: Things are splendid Kyosuke! Here! Have some champagne.
Kyosuke: What's the happy occasion?
Station director: Haven't you heard? Tamaki-chan just won the Aoki
award for excellence in journalism!
Kyosuke: She did? Congratulations! But how?
Station Director: The little documentary program profile based on your
photographs. Good job Tamaki-san!
Aso Tamaki: Arigatou, but the credit all belongs to you. (points to
Kyosuke)
Kyosuke: What do you mean?
Aso Tamaki: Your pictures conveyed the true meaning of the conflict. I
only narrated.
Kyosuke: You may have done the profiling of the show. But you still
deserve all the credit. So how do you feel?
Aso Tamaki: It is still a shock to me, happening so sudden.
Station director: Tamaki was a dark horse among all the submittals.
Her piece was entered in at the last minute of judging.
Kyosuke: Well good for you. It must have made a good impression.
Aso Tamaki: You're too modest for your own good. We need to toast this
happy occasion for the station! Kumpai!
[At XYZ Studios]
Ryusei: This is the last of the blueprints. I want this built to exact
specifications.
Mishima: Our company will conform to your specifications.
Ryusei: What is the current progress of the area to be cleared?
Mishima: The zoning and environmental departments have given their
approval and the permits for the redevelopment. It was quite
costly. In the end, everyone got their cut.
Ryusei: And what else?
Mishima: The second phase is the procurement of the properties
remaining on the block. We have in our control 70% of all
buildings. It is only a matter of time the rest will sell out.
Ryusei: Excellent. And what of the demolition phase?
Mishima: Some delays may occur. It is near a school district, so great
care must be taken to transport the equipment and to remove the debris
from the fallen buildings.
Ryusei: I don't care how you do it, but destroy the old buildings as
fast as you can. I like to lessen the likelihood of intervention
should some bureaucrat get some religion.
Mishima: It is understood.
Ryusei: Good. You may go conduct your business now.
(pulls out a cigarette form his golden cigarette case with the dragon
emblem on it)
[Hokkaido]
I had arrived home to Hokkaido. Nothing really special happened. I
greeted my mama and papa-san and unloaded my luggage in my own room.
Still the same tense moments with mama-san, as to be expected. I had a
better time with Papa-san.
After some exchanges, I volunteered to out to the market to buy some
food materials. I was going to cook for them tonight.
As I was walking outside...
"Hikari-chan? You Hikaru Hiyama?"
I turned around and saw an old man, walking with a cane, trodding
towards me.
"Honto! It is you!"
I didn't know who he was at first glance so I kind of freaked, but
when I took a closer look at him, I saw it was Yuusaku Hino's
grandfather.
Hikaru: Hino Ojiichan!
"You come back to area again!"
Hikaru: Ah yes. I'm back from New York to visit up with my folks.
"Good child. So long, so long. Might you walk me back?
"I'll be honored to!"
[At Waseda University]
Manami is at a computer terminal, typing in some email, when she
notices Akane flashing by the door and then leaving.
Manami rushes out!
Manami: Wait up Akane! (enters the girls lavatory)
Akane: What? I wasn't looking for you!
Manami: You look troubled. I can feel it from far away. What's wrong?
Akane: Absolutely nothing I tell you. Nothing at all.
Manami: Something is bothering you. Otherwise, you wouldn't be acting
this strange. Come on. Fess up.
Akane: I tell you nothing is up. (looks into the mirror)
Manami: Your eyes look kind of puffy. Have you been crying?
Akane: No. Of course not. Tough girls don't cry.
Manami: You have been crying! Don't try to hide it from you. I can see
through you. Something is really bothering you. I am here to
listen. Please confide in me.
Akane: Cruel irony to be talking to you about this here.
Manami: Who so?
Akane: Because it was here where I found out the shock of my life.
Manami: What was it?
Akane: Shun-san's true identity.
Manami: You mean...oh...I see....you thought he was a girl.
Akane: Well who wouldn't? The voice, the hair, he had the whole act
down pat. I feel so awful not being to see through that. It makes me
hate men even more!
Manami: But there has to be more to it than that. Otherwise, you
wouldn't have been sobbing over it. Could it be that you have feelings
for him?
Akane: That's preposterous. And that's none of your business.
Manami: I see. It must be eating you up inside that Shun, being a guy,
is also in full league with Shinohara's group now.
Akane: What I feel for him before is irrelevant. What matters now is
the ending of this conflict. I want to get on with this once and for
all. I want to rub Shinohara's face into the mud and make him eat dirt
and beg for mercy!
Manami: <How scary it is when Akane is riled up like this!>
[At the sect place]
Zumi Shijama: We're here!
Koji Muroke: I can see that. Looks like some assembly hall.
Shijama: Well it should! That is where we are congregate and meditate.
"Shijama-kun. You brought a friend today."
Shijama: Yes, caremaster. He wishes to learn the supreme truth as
well. Is it alright that he attends?
"Anyone who wishes to seek the truth can attend. In the eyes of
Asahara, we are his children who are wandering lost. That is why we
need his guidance."
Shijama: Here. I almost forgot. (hands him a box)
"Bless you my child. We will put it to good use."
Muroke: (whispers) What is that?
Shijama: Just a little something extra I got from the lab. They won't
miss it.
Muroke: <Is he smuggling chemicals for them?>
Shijama: Come on now. Here.
(hands him a white robe)
Muroke: What's this?
Shijama: We need to wear this for the ceremony. You can leave your
stuff here. They will take it to the coatroom.
Muroke: If you say so. (pulls the hood over his head) <I feel like
Spock now wearing that white tericloth robe in Star Trek III>
We walked along a hallway, and I was busy scanning the doors to and
fro. We finally came up to a big room where everyone was already
gathered.
"Brothers! Enter and take your positions quickly, for the Supreme
Truth waits for no one."
(As people are entering, they take what looks like candy being handed
out by the attendant)
Muroke: Now what is this white thing?
Shijama: The blessed mint. It symbolizes our willingness to learn the
truth.
Muroke: Does it?
Shijama: It helps the words that are spoken here resonate in our
heads. (pops it into his mouth and then looks at Muroke)
Muroke: Well ok. (puts it into his mouth as well)
Shijama: Here comes the Head Master.
"Welcome, my children! All who wish to learn the way must revere our
great leader Asahara-san, our founder. Today, we will discuss
sacrifice. There are times where we must sacrifice ourselves
completely in order to attain the greater truth. That is why we
encourage donations to fund our operations here. But in itself,
sacrifice can be a salvation into attaining the inner truth. We
deceive ourselves by adorning ourselves with gaudy trinkets and
clothes. Our society has grown so decadent and superficial that you
are judged more by what you have and what you wear than the person you
are inside. In giving up your worldy possessions, you are left with
yourself. From that standpoint, you can begin the path to
understanding who you are, not what you have.
But sacrifice alone is not enough! Unifying the sacrifices towards the
one goal intensifies the power of the truth. With each individual
sacrifice, it builds up the outer spirit which binds us. That outer
spirit is the goodness of Shoko Asahara, our founder and creator. In
giving up as much of what we o own, we build up the strength of the
overall one. The one who speaks to us. The one we all feel. Yes, that
is the little voice inside of you; that spirit that makes us who we
are. That is what the founder wants you to find. The Supreme Truth
within us all. Let us close our eyes and meditate now to commence our
search for the truth. Let it speak to you...let it come to you
naturally...So pray... Aum......
Muroke: <good time to sneak out now...>
[Back to Hokkaido]
Hikaru: We're here.
Hino Grandfather: Arigatou.
Hikaru: You're welcome. I was happy to walk with you.
Hino Grandfather: Might you come in for tea?
Hikaru: I would like to, but I have to be going.
Hino Grandfather: No trouble you then. But before you go, I'll give
you gift.
Hikaru: No, you don't have to.
(The grandfather ignores her and proceeds up to a peach tree and
plucks one of the fruit. He then hands it to her)
Hikaru: A peach?
Hino Grandfather: I am foolish old man.
Hikaru: No, no. I like it. Just that no one has ever given me fruit as
a gift before.
Hino Grandfather: It special fruit.
Hikaru: Really? How so?
Hino Grandfather: Tree is special in the heart. I remember my grandson
from it. Fruit from tree I planted for when Yuusaku first found.
Hikaru: Found? What do you mean?
Hino Grandfather: Oi, you know not. But alright let you know. You best
friend, only friend of Yuu. So I tell you secret.
Hikaru: What is the secret about Yuu-kun?
Hino Grandfather: Back when I fisherman, around this time, I found
this wee babe floating in basket in river. He was wrapped in
red-orange cloth and look only a few days old. I took him and and
contact the people in town, but they did not know who it belong to.
My daughter and son-in-law were there as well and they fell in love
with him. So they took him in and raised him like their son. When
leave they went, I plant peach tree here to remember boy I found.
Hikaru: Oh.....
Hino Grandfather: Hino spirit still lie within tree. So please take
this fruit.
Hikaru: I shall. Thank for telling me this. I understand what he was
feeling now.
As she walks away, she takes out the red-orange cloth that Yuusaku had
given her on that fateful fortnight, wrapping the peach in it.
Hikaru: Momotaro kid.
[Back to the sect place]
Muroke: (lowers the hood and wipes the sweat off his forehead) Woah!
How did I get pass those guards? Man, I can't be in this spy business!
"Come in #2. Come in!"
Muroke: (speaks into a transmitter in an exasperated voice) Will you
lower your tone!? You're going to blow my cover Kaori!
"Sorry pip-squeak. See anything suspicious?"
Muroke: Not yet. I'm just slipped out into the hallway. I'm going to
do some reconnaissance. Where's #1 anyway? He suppose to be my
emergency backup in case something goes wrong.
"He ain't here yet. You're on your own kid."
(*Rough*)
"Shut up mutt! Get your furry paws off of me!"
(Muroke switches off transmitter."
Muroke: I guess I'm really on my own now. Where to now?
[Back at Ayukawa mansion]
Kyosuke: I'm home!
(Sees ojiichan watching TV)
Kyosuke: Where's obaachan?
Ojiichan: Going to market. This Jirou Shogun talk show is a hoot!
Non-stop action!
Kyosuke: Where' Madoka?
Ojiichan: Should be upstairs.
Kyosuke: (yells out) Madoka! That's strange. Is she playing with me?
(checks the den, the kitchen, the bedroom, and then the bathroom; last
he checks the driveway)
Kyosuke: She's gone! How could you let her go?
Ojiichan: She is? I didn't notice.
(Kyosuke slaps his hand to his face)
[Sect hallway]
Muroke opens a door and closes it again.
Muroke: Nothing again. I'm beginning to think there's nothing really
here. Last door here.
(sees a sign on the door that says "Authorized Personnel Only"
Muroke: Gotta be careful here. (puts his ear against the door to
listen for sounds; tries to open it but find that it is locked)
Muroke: Time for super spy lock-pick.
(takes out a pen and twists it to reveal a lock-pick mechanism; sticks
it into the lock expertly and after a few jiggles, unlocks it)
Muroke: There we go. Let's see what we have here. Woah! Mother-lode!
(sees a secret laboratory, with beakers and chemical apparatus
everywhere. )
Muroke: This is interesting! (takes out same pen which in reality also
doubles as a spy camera and starts to take pictures with it)
(see some papers with formulas written on it)
Muroke: A few snaps here wouldn't hurt.
(hears footsteps approaching)
Muroke: <Shit! Someone's coming.>
(looks to and fro and then suddenly darts under the table)
(2 men enter)
"Curious. I thought I locked this door before I left."
"You should not be so lax with the security here."
"I understand Zenbata-san. But we are not here to trifle with
particulars, are we? "
"So what is the latest progress now?"
"Well using this formula here, we were able to extend the duration of
the containment compound here by another 20%. Now it should be able to
last 25 minutes before complete breakdown."
"Good. (picks up the paper) Have you told anyone of this yet?"
"No,not yet."
"You don't need to. I will make the report on your behalf. Keep
working on it though."
"If you wish it, then it shall be. My only goal is to serve the great
Shoko Ashara. "
"As for security, I will take care of it. I will affix a dead-bolt
master lock in front. "
Muroke: <Oh crap! How am I going to get out of here?>
[Shin ABCB]
Izzy: Urgh! Hangover...
Master: You didn't have anything to drink!
Izzy: That explains why then...
(phone rings)
Master: Hello? Ahh, Hikaru-chan! Good to hear your voice again. How
are things here? It's fine here. How are you? What? You're in Hokkaido
now? Too bad you can't come by the place here. I'm sure you're come
when you're in town.
(in rushes Kyosuke)
Kyosuke: MASTER! Have you seen Madoka?
Izzy: Can't cha see he's on the phone with Hikaru?
Kyosuke: What? Hikaru is calling?
Master: (cups his hand over the receiver) You seem might anxious
Kyosuke-kun. Do you want to talk to her?
Kyosuke: Uh...yeah, sure. (takes the receiver) Hello? How are you
doing Hikaru? Didn't know you come back from Japan already. There's a
matter I wish to talk to you about, but I want to talk to you
privately. Can I get your address there? (gets a pen out of his pocket
and starts to scribble on the napkins) Ok. Got it. I have to go now.
(rushes out the door)
Izzy: He must still have the hots for her. What a juicy story this
could be. Makes me want to write again...
[At the sect's secret lab]
As the chemist departs the lab and locks it behind him...
Muroke: (switching on transmitter) Breaker, breaker. Big Mamma, come
in.
Kaori: Finally back. What now?
Muroke: I'm trapped in what seems to be a lab area. And they locked
the door behind me. I need to get out of here! Is #1 there yet?
Kaori: Nah.
Muroke: I'm dead then.
Kaori: Cheer up! There must be a way out. Are there any windows?
Muroke: Nooo!
Kaori: Any other doors?
Muroke: Nope.
Kaori: There must be some opening around there. Look around your
surroundings.
Muroke: The only thing I can see is just a vent.
Kaori: Then that's ya ticket out of there.
Muroke: But I don't know if I can fit through it or not. Or where it
leads to?
Kaori: Better than getting trapped there.
Muroke: I guess so. Fine. (takes out pen again and presses a button
which pops out a screwdriver head at the top; uses it to unscrew the
vent)
Muroke: <Vent is barely enough for me to fit through. I suppose they
need a vent this big to flush out all the fumes here.>
(crawls in and places the cover back on. takes out pen again and uses
it as a flashlight this time)
(crawls 15 meters and makes a right turn which eventually leads him to
another vent)
Muroke: Lucky! I'm arrived at the bathroom!
(removes cover and gets out)
Muroke: Better get back before I get discovered! (puts on hood again)
(*Smack!*)
(the bathroom door hits Muroke's cheek square!)
Muroke: Arrgh... (looks up in shock!) <Colonel Kijiama!>
"Excuse me. You need help?"
Muroke: No, no. I'm ok! Need to go back to mediate. Bye now!
[At Yamazumi Kensetsu main office]
(We see Inspector Jackson enter in.)
Jackson: This mystery man is as slippery as a worm. But I'll get to
the bottom of this.
Receptionist: May I help you?
Jackson: Yes...I was sent down from the police department to
coordinate the clearing of one of your construction sites. But they
must have gotten their names mixed up and I am at a loss for the
person I suppose to be in contact name. But I believe he just came
into town, and from the description at the station, he has a stocky
build, about 185 cm, with a stubble chin.
Receptionist: You must be speaking of Mishima-san, the construction
manager. He is currently not in right now. Might I take a message for
you?
Jackson: That's ok. Can you right his name down for me so I don't
forget? I'm bad with names.
Receptionist: Certainly. He must be really popular today.
Jackson: What do you mean?
Receptionist: Another lady just dropped by before you inquiring about
him as well. She too gave almost a similar physical description of
him. She left her name and number instead. (points to paper on the
desk)
Jackson turns his head to glance at the name on the paper: Ayukawa
Madoka!
[Outside the Blackjack Cafe]
(Madoka is sitting outside in her red sports car, peering at it)
Madoka: <It's been a long, long time since I have been back to this
place. Where I first met you Syujirou-san. Are you really alive
again?
[In the meditation hall of the sect]
Zumi Shijama: Hey Muroke? Where were you?
Muroke: argh wah wah wah.
Shijama: You don't sound too good.
Muroke: Sorry. I had a really bad stomach-ache and spent most of the
time in the bathroom. Is it over yet?
Shijama: Just about.
Muroke: I think I take off early then, if that's alright with you.
Shijama: Sure. I'll be staying late so meet you back at the house.
Muroke: Ok. See ya. <Ahh! My mouth!>
[Kyosuke walking along the streets]
Kyosuke: (walking with hands in his pocket, head slumped) Where could
she be? I check the conservatory, the university, and the park.
(sees the red sports car next to Blackjack Cafe)
Kyosuke: Madoka! There you are! But what are you hanging out here for?
(sees her looking longingly through the window of the cafe)
[Inside the van]
Kaori: You look frazzled kid!
Muroke: I feel like crap. My mouth still aches.
Kaori: Eugh! What's that?
Muroke: Some sort of mint. I spit it out when I got out. Tasted funny,
so I thought we should examine it.
"I'm back!"
Muroke: There you are #1! Where were you?
#1: Busy. So. What did you find?
Muroke: Kaori got the camera pen. You can examine the pictures
yourself. For myself, I'm retiring from the spy business. Oww! (rubs
his cheek)
#1: Nasty blow you got there. Dentist drill time for you. Let me refer
you to one.
Muroke: Oh no! Not the drill!
[At Yakushima Island]
(inside the big, dark mansion atop a hill)
(We hear the metallic balls of Goro Shimazaki clanging in his hand, as
he sits in his study)
(We suddenly hear a rustling sound)
"I have returned, my master."
Goro: You best bring me good tidings.
"I have. The clan has finally formulated the formula."
Goro: I see. Who else knows of it?
"Only me and the master chemist."
Goro: Are you sure?
"I am positive."
Goro: Still, I cannot take any chances. We have no need for Asahara's
assistance no more. I suggest we dispose of him and his group, lest
anyone should possess the secret.
"You wish is my bidding. Phase Two shall begin."
Goro: Don't screw up like last time, or it may be your last time.
"Understood."
[At the Ayukawa Mansion]
Kyosuke: Is there something you want to talk to me about?
Madoka: Like what?
Kyosuke: Like why you ran off today. Was something troubling you?
Madoka: No. I just felt like going out. I was cooped up inside too
long.
Kyosuke: You should let someone know next time?
Madoka: Why should I? I'm my own woman. I should be able to come and
go as I please.
Kyosuke: Yeah, but you're not been yourself these past few days. When
you were gone, I thought something bad might have happened to you.
Madoka: I don't need you to protect me all the time! I can fend for
myself.
Kyosuke: I know, but I...
Madoka: I don't feel too well. Can you leave me alone now?
Kyosuke: Uhh, ok then. But if anything's the matter, feel free to find
me.
Madoka: Noted. Goodbye now.
(bedroom door slams)
Kyosuke: What is wrong with you Madoka? Are you possessed or what?
I've got to get to the bottom of this. Maybe Hikaru might know
something.
[Back at Ryokurin Ryo]
Taku: Are you alright?
Muroke: Nah. I'm feelin' lousy. (points to his swollen cheek) And what
is that drilling noise?
Taku: It's coming from Shinohara-san's and Shijama-san's room. Let's
see what they're up to.
(as they enter)
(They see Shinohara wearing a welder's mask and carrying a blowtorch)
Muroke: What are you doing?
Shinohara: What does it look like?
Muroke: Are you crazy? You're dismantling your Hawley!
Shinohara: It needs to be super-charged for the race.
Taku: You mean for the final challenge.
Shinohara: That's correct. I don't aim to lose.
Taku: Do you need some help?
Shinohara: No. It will be all by myself. One on one versus their
champion.
Muroke: You're just reverting back to your selfish ways.
Shinohara: I don't need your amateur help.
Muroke: Suit yourself. If you want to lose alone by yourself, that's
your problem.
Shinohara: If you nothing more to say, then get out.
Muroke: Fine! I now when I'm not wanted!
(Sunday)
Kyosuke: Madoka hasn't talked to me in three days. I gotta find out
what's the matter.
Kyosuke: Ojiichan.
Ojiichan: What up?
Kyosuke: I need you to watch over this house and Madoka for me. I
making a little visit. I should be back soon.
Ojiichan: Hai hai Kyosuke. (watching baseball) Go Daiji go!
Kyosuke: Oh brother! Time to use the Power! (flashes and disappears)
[At the subway]
We see a mysterious maintenance worker walking along the abandon
tracks. He looks back, and we see it is the face of Colonel Kijiama
Zenbata!
[End of Chapter]