[KOR][FanFic] HARD|<OR Book D Chapter 12: The Long Goodbye

[Robert Kwong]

Hi once more,

This is the final chapter in my HARD|<oR Book D series
titled 'The Book of Four'.
This is Chapter 12: The Long Goodbye.


Following this will be the last HARD|<oR 'Book V' titled
-
'Final Acts.' The ordering will be different. I intend
this final book to be like the 'OAV' or 'MOVIE' version
of Kimagure Orange Road. So you can think of my Books A,B,C,D
as the TV series equivalent. My 'Prelude' edition is the
prequel to the series.

Hope that doesn't confuse you all!

Until then, 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 Dec 31, 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, Book B, and Book C 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.

This is the last HardKOR story of the millenium! I originally wanted
to send it out on Christmas Eve, but I decided it would be better if I
waited till the last day and add a bonus story to boot.

Thanks for reading my stories and making it one the most popular KOR
fanfic on the web! (42000 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: The Book of Four
Chapter 12: The Long Goodbye

[At the Penthouse Apartments]

Ryusei hunches over the GO chess board, evaluating the pieces and
positions. It looks like he has not slept the whole night. All the
while, he is muttering to himself.

"It can't be....I did not calculate this...a captured piece from the
past comes back to bite me. Why...why did she have to come back! Why
does she have such influence over me...she can't be the one...she is
too young... I know that...but why this deja vu feeling...why can't I
control myself... My mind... it feels like it's on fire!

(stares at the queen pieces, encircled by the 2 broken jade bracelet
pieces)

"It's all her fault...it must be a trick...she must be an enemy
agent... my past enemies plotting against me...that is why they know
my only weakness. Must be one from the 'Dragon's Den'...but who...I
must find out...but I can't...no time left...must complete the
project...I must concentrate and block her out of my mind...I must
forget about her...I must hate her...or I won't fulfill my
mission...the mission must succeed...it has to succeed...she must be
dealt with...

(slams the table with the palm of his hand, causing the queen piece to
topple over.)


[On a Japan Airlines plane up in the air...]

Hikaru: <*yawnnnnn*>

"Good morning maam. Would you like coffee, tea, or water?"

Hikaru: What? Where am I?

"You are on Japan Air Flight 447 to New York. This is the first class
area."

Hikaru: My flight...that's right...but how did I get here? And I was
suppose to be in coach!

"You were helped on board. He passed me your ticket."

Hikaru: Thank you stewardess. Sorry to be of trouble.

"What complimentary beverage would you like to order then?"

H: Oh, just give me some orange juice then. <This is so strange...I
remember being in the Shin ABCB talking with a strange fellow and now
I'm here...>

[At the Ryokurin Ryo House]

(Muroke comes in)

Taku: You're out early today.

Muroke: I had an errand to attend to.

Taku: That was some whacky night yesterday.

Muroke: It was. More than expected...

(*flashback*)

Shijama: Isn't it a bad idea to go into the lion's den?

Muroke:: Nah. Besides, it's the best place to go after a good race.

Hasukawa: You might be forgetting that we didn't win.

Taku: Neither did the other side.

Shun: But won't they feel mad if they see us there?

Muroke: Nah. Besides...it's the best way to get Shinohara off our
tail. He would never go in to fraternize with the enemy - it would be
beneath him.

Akane: Are you going to go in or not?

Tatsuya Youta: They're right behind us!

Muroke: Hi Manami!

Manami: Hi Muroke!

Kurumi: That's Manami-san to you bud! Let's go inside now! I need a
brewsky!

(They all go in and start to mingle)

(Muroke sees a lady sitting next to Izzy stirring to her side and sees
part of her face)

Muroke: Hey,...isn't that...

(approaches her)

Muroke: Hiyama-san!

Hikaru: (half opens her eyes) #2? (falls back to sleep again)

Muroke: Oh god! What are you doing here? You're suppose to be in New
York!

Manami: Who are you talking to now? Oh! Hikaru!

(Everyone starts to gather around them)

Izzy: Whatcha all want? You ain't my fans.

Akane: What are you talking about fool!? We're here for Hikaru?

Izzy: She ain't no condition for talkin'! She's knocked out.

Kurumi: Hey buddy! What the hell did you do to her, you crazy nut?

Izzy: Me? We waz in a drinkin' contest. She's good, but she ain't got
what it takes to be the master drunkard. (*hiccup!*)

Master Pack: What the bud said is true to the beat. She's been
drinking up a storm.

Manami: How terrible! I've got to take her back home so she can sleep
it off.

Izzy: She can't do that.

Akane: And why not?

Izzy: 'cause she's flyin' away. Just like a little birdie.

Rikkako Muto: This bozo makes no sense! We should call the police to
haul this vagrant away!

Izzy: Your'a sassy miss! I like that.

(2 guys enter through the door)

Hatta: Man oh man! Are you sure it was a good idea to trade our
studio?

Komatsu: Sure it is! We ain't been using it for a long time. We only
need to move the stash out.

Hatta: I know! We've been moving these couple of days! Whew! Hard
work! I really need a drink! Hey, look at that crowd by our spot!

Komatsu: Lot of chicks there too! Ga ga ga! Must be our adoring fans!
(yells out) Hello ladies! We're here for you!

Akane: Shut your yap Komatsu! We ain't looking for you.

Hatta: Great! More rejection!

Komatsu: You ladies needn't be so harsh! (whispers to Hatta) Must be
PMS.

Kurumi: I heard that!

Komatsu: Whoops!

Hatta: Lookee here! Hikaru's here. And she's sitting at my stool! I
feel so honored!

Izzy: Oh...don't matter. Joint here gonna be smashed anyway.

All: What?

Akane: What the hell are you talking about?

Izzy: (starts to sing) Old ABCB is going down, going down. Old ABCB is
going down...la la la..

Kohami Yumi: Way too looney here.

Komatsu: Oh, the drunk got it all mixed up! He got the wrong ABCB
going down.

Manami: You mean he's not talking nonsense?

Hatta: Course he always talking nonsense. You gotta know which parts
are true ,that's all.

Kurumi: Somebody better explain what's going on before I pound
somebody!

Komatsu: Gee, you're not so cute when you're angry. It's the old ABCB
he's talking about.

Akane: What?

Komatsu: Yep! Traded my place in exchange for a spot in the new super
complex luxury suite for our up and coming manga franchise! That's why
we weren't here drinking away the past week!

Hatta: What a deal! Kensetsu Yamazumi Enterprises, Japan's best
developer coming to us!

Manami: You're still not making sense.

Komatsu: Ok. We traded our pad to the current owner of the old ABCB
and then traded that to Kensetsu Enterprises. They going to tear down
the entire Orange Road area and develop it into it into the new
superplex for Tokyo! Imagine, office buildings, malls, gaming
facilities, and of course, our very own office level block! We're
going to rule!!!

Akane: You guys! How can you be so selfish!?

Hatta & Komatsu: What?

Akane: You heard me! That's despicable! Redeveloping the land is not
the answer. It would destroy the identity of the area! Imagine the
youth from the local schooling facilities playing hookey or getting
corrupted by such an unhealthy influence! We should be preserving what
we have instead of building more mega-infrastructure.

Manami: She's right! I'm quite disappointed in you two for agreeing to
this.

Komatsu: Well, that's just TOO BAD! There's nothing you can do about
it!

Akane: You're wrong!

Hatta & Komatsu: What?

Akane: We will protest and block them from doing this!

Komatsu: Protest? What an absurd thing to do! That's what they do in
the US.

Akane: We won't be sitting on our butts and doing nothing! We're the
new women of today here and we're women of action! You will see what
we're capable of when we're mobilized. Are you all with me?

All the girls: YESS!!!

Kohama Yumi: You go girl!

Akane: Let's go now! I don't want to hang around these 2 bums!

Manami: Kurumi! Help me with Hikaru-chan! We're taking her back to our
place!

Muroke: I'll help too.

Kurumi: Why would you want to help?

Muroke: She's my friend too. Here.

(coming over...)

Shun: Akane-san! Do you have a moment?

Akane: Oh, Kisaragi-san! What do you want to talk about?

Shun: This may sound odd to you, given the two sides embroiled in
conflict, but this case is an exception. Would it be alright if our
group here lend our support to you?

Akane: Wow, that does sound irregular. Why?

Shun: We too know what it is like to be threatened with having a
cherished landmark being threatened with destruction: Ryokurin
Ryo. The boarding house where the boys are living at now. On this
issue, we are in complete agreement. That is why we want to lend our
help. Right Suka?

Hasukawa: That's right. This battle between us is petty compared to
the fight versus a corporation.

Akane: I would greatly appreciated that. Let us work together then for
a change.

(*end flashback*)


[At #1's headquarters]

(#1 comes through the door)

Kaori: You're back. Where the hell were you?

#1: Just transportin' an old customer.

(*flashback*)

Muroke: Here! There's where the twins live!

#1: Your computer skills have not regressed.

Muroke: 'Course not! That's how I found out that Hiyama's flight is
today! If she doesn't make that flight, she'll jeopardize her position
in the play.

#1: Now how would you know all that?

Muroke: I....kind of follow the messages on the FAME BBS system they
have up there.

#1: We're right here now. Let's go in.

(*ding dong*)

Kurumi: Oh, you're here. And you too Lone Wolf!

#1: Hi! (flashes a grin)

Kurumi: (yells) Man-na-mi! The number boys are here again to pick up
Hikaru-chan!

Manami: Coming!

Kurumi: (ignoring #2) So Lone Wolf, long time no see. What have you
been doing lately?

#1: Stuff. Boring stuff.

Kurumi: Does it involve physical activity?

#1: Not really. Just driving.

Manami: Oh right. Here she is! You two drive safely now. Bye Muroke!
Bye #1!

(inside the limo)

#1: The girls look adorable as usual.

Muroke: I know.

#1: Which one of them do you have the hots for?

Muroke: #1!

#1: I know. Must be the one with the glasses.

Muroke: You should be talking! You're always leading women around.

#1: That's my talent.

(Hikaru murmurs: Ryusei...please...don't destroy the ABCB...)

Muroke: Haroken-san? I didn't know he was involved with this ABCB
thing.

#1: You mean that bar?

Muroke: No, not the bar. There's another place named the ABCB which is
a quaint cafe of sorts.

#1: What's the big deal?

Muroke: Apparently our RA Kisaragi-san thinks so. We're going down to
Orange Road later to stage a protest.

#1: Orange Road? Must be the Project Orange Road the master has been
working on.

Muroke: So he is involved! Why didn't you tell me?

#1: You didn't ask.

Muroke: But why?

#1: Why not? It's just one of the areas considered for redevelopment.
Originally, he wanted to demolish the place you were living at, but
that was thwarted at the last minute. So it was on to plan B.

Muroke: I see, so in saving our house, we indirectly caused the burden
to shift over to the other side.

#1: Bingo!

Muroke: How can you be so cold about it?

#1: Matters not to me. Why should I care?

Muroke: Of course not. You're a wanderer. You're always going from
place to place.

#1: That's right. You can't let things tie you down. You have to be
going forward.

Muroke: Maybe for you it's ok, but for others, it's a part of their
memories. It not merely a structure, but something much more.

#1: Whatever. First thing first. Let's get her checked out of the
Kingdom hotel and then off to the airport we go!

[At the clinic]

Madoka: Yukari; Thanks for coming with me.

Yukari: It's no bother. We're practically family...and when Shue and I
get hitched up, it'll be official. What matters right now is you.

Madoka: I never felt so scared in my life.

Yukari: You got to get a hold of yourself. Aren't you the same tough
Madoka everyone fears?

Madoka: That was my former self. Now, I don't know anymore; I'm afraid
of the results of the examination.

Yukari: Have you told Kyosuke about this yet?

Madoka: No; he and I have been in a spat these few days and haven't
really been talking with each other.

Yukari: (*snickers*) You two...acting like you're already married.

Madoka: You mean it's normal?

Yukari: Of course. Me and Shue gotten sore at each other plenty of
times , plenty of ways. But we always know how to kiss and make
up. That's what makes a relationship stronger. To be able to weather
the tough and rocky times.

Madoka: I hope you're right. I never knew what it was like for a
married couple. I mean my mom and dad were away abroad performing, and
I was by myself in the house most of the time. But with these recent
events, I'm afraid I'm losing my edge. If the results confirm what my
feelings tell me, I can no longer recklessly act nonchalantly on my
own; I have another to think about.

[Back at the Twins place]

Manami: Kurumi! Get ready.

Kurumi: I am I am. (brings down a box of things) How come I have to
carry this?

Manami: 'Cause you're the brawny one in the family.

Kurumi: Fine! At least I got to get a glimpse of 'Lone Wolf' to
brighten up my day.

Manami: You're still hung up on him?

Kurumi: Why not? He's a man's man!

Manami: (*He he*)!

Kurumi: What are you laughing about?

Manami: Nothing.

Kurumi: You know, I get this feeling that there's still something
going on between you and the pipsqueak!

Manami: Muroke is not a pipsqueak!

Kurumi: How did you know I was talking about him huh???

Manami: Umm...I mean he's 3 inches shorter than me. I naturally
thought you were referring to him.

Kurumi: You guys better not have something going on the side. He
belong to the enemy y'know! If Akane ever found out, it would break
her heart!

Manami: You're just thinking wildly. Besides, Akane has something
going on with this Kisaragi fellow.

Kurumi: Don't try to change the subject.

Manami: Don't you get the same feeling though?

Kurumi: 'Course. Akane always been the odd cousin. But back to what I
was saying...

Manami: No time. Let's go! We're be late!

Kurumi: <I'm on to you. I'll find out what you'll up to!>


[At the Kingdom Hotel]

(*ding ding ding*)

Mishima: (answers his cell phone) Hai?

"Hi, This is Foreman Saito down at the site. It's way past 10 and the
machines are waiting. Shall we go ahead?"

Mishima: Yes. Excuse me. I am running a bit late. Proceed as
planned. I'll arrive there shortly

"Ryoukai!"

(Mishima prepares a suit for dry cleaning; on it, there is a visible
stain)


[At the construction site on Orange Road]

Kyosuke is carrying a video camera, but his mind's wandering.

Madoka, Madoka, Madoka. What a hard women to figure out. Especially
when she's so mad at me. I guess there's where you get the "mad" in
Madoka. We had fights before, but it always resulted around my
failures as a person. But now, it concerned her "excess baggage". I
didn't quite know how to deal with the other man in her life
before. That's what made it so frustrating. Making the whole situation
worse is my jealous reactions. That was my nature, acting crazy and
irrational when threatened with a rival. Ironically, in a way, it was
like payback time for me torturing Madoka for all those times I was
with Hikaru-chan. Now I knew how she felt thinking about us
together. Love hurts both ways. I was still trying to figure out the
best way to resolve this between Madoka and him.

Aso Tamaki: Kyosuke! Are you ready?

Kyosuke: Hmm? Hai! Ready when you are!

Aso: Hey! A large crowd is proceeding down this way.

Kyosuke: I see them. Argh!

Aso: What is it!

Kyosuke: I see my cousin Akane and my sisters! What are they doing
here?

"Hell no! We won't go! Hell no! We won't go!"

Aso: Let's roll the cameras! This will make great footage!

Kyosuke: Ok.

Aso: Aso Tamaki here reporting live on the scene at Orange Road,
Tokyo. We are witnessing a protest by the local inhabitants against
the unwanton demolition of this area, carried by Yamazumi Kensetsu
Enterprises. Here is one of the protesters. Miss, what are your views?

Manami: I think it is a travesty what they are doing here! This is a
great place and it shouldn't be destroyed just because of the whims of
a corporation. We need to preserve our local heritage.

Akane: (butts in) Yes, and I want to add that we will do whatever it
takes to stop these bozos! RIGHT PEOPLE?

(*A collective cheer!*)

Aso: A now, a word from the other side. You look like the foreman
here.

"Hey, I seen you two before! The boss said to kick you two out of
here!

Aso: I'm afraid you're wrong sir. We have our rights as the media core
to report on the situation.

"I don't care who you are, but if you and these whackos don't exit
this construction zone, I'm callin' the cops!"

Aso: And there you have it! A defiant response from the other
side. What will become of this situation? Stay tuned as we go to a
commercial break.

[Inside the white Lincoln Continental limo]

(Music of 'Total Eclipse of the Heart' playing in the background)

Ryusei: You finally arrived! What was the delay?

#1: Uhh errands. You can ask Nagasi herself.

Ryusei: Fine. Did you know an ex-employee has returned?

#1: You mean Hiyama-san?

Ryusei: How did you know?

#1: Oh, #2 mentioned it to me when he called me up. Said he saw her at
some bar or something.

Ryusei: I'm afraid she might present some trouble for the Orange Road
project. I want you to monitor her whereabouts and activities.

#1: No need boss.

Ryusei: Why not?

#1: She's gone already. Flew back to NYC.

Ryusei: How would you know that?

#1: Oh, #2 told me. You know the little tyke. Always hacking into the
airline computers and such. He was curious when she would leave. I bet
he has a little puppy love crush on her.

Ryusei: Then forget about the matter. I anticipate no further
interruptions then to this operation. But from one fire drill to
another. On to Kobayashi shipping!


[Back at Orange Road Construction Site]

Kyosuke: Hey! That's my vid cam!

Police #1: Gomen sir. You two have to leave the premises.

Aso Tamaki: And what if we refuse?

Police #1: We would have to arrest you for creating a public
disturbance.

Kyosuke: What about them? (points to Akane's and the Greenwood group)

Police #2: We will issue them the same warning. If they resist, we
will have to arrest them.

Akane; Listen, you coppers! We will never leave! You will have to
arrest each and every one of us! But we shall never leave our beloved
ABCB behind to be ravaged.

(handcuffs herself to the door!)

Manami: Hey, where did she get the cuffs?

Kurumi: Beats me. I wonder if we get to pound Tokyo's finest if they
get too frisky with us.

Manami: Kurumi! That will get us into more trouble!

Police #2: Yes station control. We need to call for backup. Make sure
they bring in the van. We have a full load to haul off. Over.

Muroke: Hey, this is getting extreme here. I wasn't prepared to get
arrested here.

Shijama: Cheer up! It'll be a fun experience.

Muroke; Man, are you still brain-washed from that cult experience.

Shijama: No; after that ordeal, nothing fazes me anymore. Makes me
fortunate to try out new things. Too bad Shinohara off by himself
again.

Muroke: What do you mean?

Shijama: He went off last night and wasn't in this morning.

Muroke: Forget about him; he's a creature with strange habits.

Hasukawa: Shun, are you sure this was such a hot idea?

Shun: Would you do any less had it been Greenwood?

Hasukawa: No, I guess not. I would have done more. Let's us all do it!

[At the clinic]

Madoka: Thank you Doctor Nagai. What's my prognosis?

Doctor: You are in excellent health. The only advice I would give is
to smoke and drink less.

Madoka: I have already takened steps towards remedying those measures.
But what about ...

Doctor: Your pregnancy test. I do not want to make a preliminary
reading, given the enormous importance of the result.

Madoka: When will it be ready?

Doctor: It should take roughly 2 to 3 hours after the lab has analyzed
the sample. Do you wish to wait here for the results?

Madoka: No. I think I want to go home and talk to somebody first.

Doctor: Then we will phone you the results.

Madoka: Yes, that would be fine. Thank you doctor. <Kyosuke, it's time
we have that big talk>

[Back to O-Road]

Police #2: Haul them away boys!

(inside the police van)

Shun: I so sorry Akane to see this happen to your beloved little
haven.

Akane: Don't worry about it Shun-san. We gave it our best shot and
struggled till the end. (points to her cheeks) I have the bruise marks
to prove it.

Hasukawa: But in the end, it was all for naught.

Kurumi: It sure was! You boys didn't put up much of a fight in
resisting the police!

Manami: Don't be so tough on them Kurumi. They stood in with us, side
by side.

Muroke: Gomen Manami. I feel indirectly, we are partly to blame for
what's happening now.

Rikkako Muto: What do you mean?

Shijama: Look outside now! The bulldozers are converging in now!

Worker #1: You want us send in everything we have? Wouldn't one do?

Foreman: No, the big guy wanted to make an example of this
place. Wanted to make a big show and all, so let 'er rip boys! Pile it
down to the ground!

Worker #2: 'kay. You're the boss.

(5 bulldozers converge on the ABCB!)

Kurumi: <I gotta use the Power! to stop this!> //twin telepathy

Manami: (reaches over) <NO Kurumi! Not in front of all these people!>

Kurumi: <It doesn't matter! I gonna do it no matter what and no one is
going to stop me!>

Kohama Yumi: Hey look! They stopped.

Kurumi & Manami: What?

Taku Morisaki: She's right. All of them have stopped.

Manami: Do you do it?

Kurumi: No, it's not me! I was about to do something...Akane!

Akane: W-w-what? (breaks her stare off of Shun)

Manami: Couldn't been her. She was occupied with Kisaragi-san. I know!

Kurumi: What?

Manami: Must be oni-chan's doing! He was holding the camera during
that news report.

Akane: That's right! That buster finally did something right for a
change.

Tatsuya Youta: (whispers to the boys) What are they talking about?

Hasukawa: Women, they're so hard to understand anyway. Must be a girl
thing.

Muroke: Taku, can you do me a favor and take a look at the insignia on
those bulldozers?

Taku Morisaki: Sure. (plucks out his portable telescope) Is is:
Shinohara Heavy Industries, Labor Unit NCXV1471701D

Shijama: Why the curiosity over the make?

Muroke; Just a hunch I have, that's all.


(As the police van drives away, just off the scene)

Foreman: What are you bozos doing!? Get those machines cranking up
again!

"No can do boss. She's stopped cold. (revs up a few times) See!"

Foreman: Impossible! How can all our heavy machinery fail at the same
time!? This must be an act of sabotage! I'm going to contact the big
man himself!

Aso: Kyosuke! Are you okay? Where were you?

Kyosuke: I was...I had to go! Sorry.

Actually, I ran off, much like Clark Kent, in order to perform some
heroics in saving the ABCB. I couldn't let people see me as I
unleashed the might of the Power! However, right when I was glowing
and charging up, the machines stopped on their own!

As I looked towards the police van, I figured it must my sisters or
cousin's doing. But they were squeezed in with so many people...how
could they have concealed using the Power! from so many? Oh great,
they must given away the family secret just to save ABCB.

Aso: Kyosuke?

Kyosuke: Hai?

Aso: This is the second time this moment that I had to call you to
attention. Are you sure you're feeling well?

Kyosuke; Yeah, of course. Just the shock of the situation wearing
heavily on my mind.

Aso: This is the perfect scoop chance now! The construction workers
have takened a break, so let's roll those cameras!

Kyosuke: Yes maam!


[At the police precinct]

Natsumi: You sure look like shit.

Jackson: I feel like it. (gulps down thick black coffee) Thank god for
good ole Columbian beans.

Natsumi: So you're the new hotshot in the latest disaster story to hit
Tokyo.

Jackson: I try to do my best. This punk Shoko Asahara is a hard nut to
crack. Refuses to answer any questions at all. Just closes his eyes
and meditates the whole time. Now it's out of my hands and up to the
lawyers to duke it out.

Natsumi: He's what gives religion a bad name. What's next?

Jackson: Currently, we're following up on leads to capture the rest of
his accomplices who might have in their possession the deadly chemical
nerve reagent. That's a bitch, for it's going to take more long nights
of stakeouts of suspects.

Natsumi: So you better get some winks in while you can buster! You go
have fun with your cigarette butt. I'm going on patrol with Kenny.

Jackson: Oh, by the way, don't think I don't know of your little stunt
in borrowing the new experimental cycle.

Natsumi: Man, I can't get anything past you!

Jackson: You better believe it! Don't let it happen again, okay?

Natsumi: Yeah, yeah. Sure thing. I hear you. Take it easy. Ja.

(inside, the police are hauling in all the protesters!)

Jackson: Hey! What are you hauling in all these kids in for? This
ain't no preschool holding area!

Police Officer #1: These youth caused a major disturbance at some
construction site. A stay in behind bars will quell their rebellious
spirit.

Akane: Hey, stop pushing me!

Natsumi: Akane?

Akane: Oh, Natsumi-san, you're here! Kohami-san, your cousin's here.

Natsumi: You're with them too!? You should know better than to get in
trouble like this.

Akane: Don't blame her. It's my fault. We were protesting the unwanton
teardown of a treasured landmark.

Kohama Yumi: Cousin. Can you help us out?

Natsumi: I want to be of help ladies, but it's beyond my
jurisdiction. The law is the law.

Kohama Yumi: Can't you at least bail us out?

Natsumi: Not on what they're paying me here! But I can bail you out.

Kohama Yumi: Great!

Natsumi: ...right after the end of my shift!

Kohama Yumi: When will that be?

Natsumi: In about 6 hours or so.

Kohami Yumi: That's no fair!

Natsumi: Plenty fair to me. Gives you some time to reflect on what
you've done. Bye now and enjoy your stay here.

[At the construction site]

Foreman: Boss, there's the downed vehicles.

Mishima: When are the machines going to be back up?

Foreman: From what the mechanics tell me, they need to order custom
parts from the factory in order to fix 'em up. At least 2 weeks for it
to come in.

Mishima: Two weeks! That is too long!

Foreman: Nothing I can do about it.

Mishima: What about ordering new vehicles?

Foreman: Called about that too. They have a backlog. It will take
about 4 to 5 days to come in. But replacing these vehicles will put us
way over budget.

Mishima: Time is more of the essence. Proceed with the order.

Foreman: You're the boss. I'll get your authorization signature later.
By the way, those 2 media people were poking their noses around here
again.

Mishima: Where?

Foreman: They're still around here somewhere...ah there they are!

Aso Tamaki: What a miracle! Right when those bulldozers were about to
topple the structure, bam! Stopped dead in their tracks.

Kyosuke: Yeah, very fortunate indeed.

Mishima: Kasuga Kyosuke. I want to have a word with you.

Kyosuke: Leave us Aso. I'll meet you back at the station.

Aso: But I...

Kyosuke: I'll see you later. Here's the camera.

Aso: Alright then. (packs up her stuff on the motorbike and rides off)

Kyosuke: We're alone now. What do you want now?

Mishima: First of all, I don't appreciate you meddling in my business.

Kyosuke: I don't appreciate the business that you're in! So I make it
a point to butt in!

Mishima: So it has to be that way...I assume you had something to do
with the "malfunction" of my bulldozers?

Kyosuke: What's it to you? Whatever did happen to them is because you
deserved it.

Mishima: I can see why Mado-chan came to me.

Kyosuke; What?

Mishima: You heard me.

Kyosuke: No way. She's all over you now. You're yesterday's trash.

Mishima: I don't think so. I can see why now. You're so
"inadequate". I wonder what she ever saw in you. She must have taken
pity on you.

Kyosuke: Why you!!! (clenches his fists)

Mishima: So the pretty boy wants to fight now? Come on! I dare you.

Kyosuke: You asked for it! (rushes Mishima)

(throws up a punch but hits air!)

Mishima: Now my turn!

(rains several blows on Kyosuke, sending him to the ground)

Mishima: You mess with my business, I'll mess with yours. I was going
to honor Mado-chan's request and leave you two alone, but seeing that
she couldn't resist my touch when we were alone in my hotel room...

Kyosuke: YOU BASTARD! (jumps up to take another shot at Mishima!)

(but he misses again! This time Mishima smacks him down on the back,
sending him face first into the dirt!)

Kyosuke: URGHH!!

Mishima: You're not even worthy to be a street punk. Don't even bother
to get up. You hear this and you hear this good. I make sure this
project gets completed. You may have delayed me a week, but I'll make
sure everything here you see here is reduced to rubble. And second,
Madoka will be mine again! So don't get in my way, or the next time,
you won't need to leave the dirt.

(as Mishima leaves, Kyosuke spits in his direction and wipes the blood
from his mouth)


[At the Ayukawa mansion]

Ojiichan: Ah Madoka-chan! Welcome back!

Madoka: Thank you. Have you seen Kyosuke at all?

Ojiichan: Ohhh he left this morning and hasn't been back.

Madoka; Thanks. I call the station.

Aso: Hello?

Madoka: Yes, Tamaki-san? Yes, may I speak with Kyosuke?

Aso: He's still out on-site, but he should be returning back. Do you
want me to pass him a message?

Madoka: No thank you...I go down there and meet him there later. Thank
you very much.

[Inside the jail cell]

Shun: (grasping the cell bars) For the last time, I told you I'm not
suppose to be in the woman's cell!

Holding officer: Tell that to the judge!

Akane: Don't worry Shun-san, it's not so bad here. You can sit next to
me. (drags him down to sit next to her!)

Kurumi: Look at those two.

Manami: Yeah, looks like Akane's gotten over the fact that Shun's a
guy. It might be better that he is a guy in her case.

(in the guy's cell)

Hasukawa: I have a taste of the prison life and I don't like it!

Taku Morisaki: We've only been here about 45 minutes only.

Hasukawa: But it feels like an eternity here! I can't cope well in
small, cramped places. I get paranoid and then I start to breathe
erratically and then my nose will start to ...

Muroke: (pats him on the back) Calm down, super. I called my buddy
#1. I'm sure he will bail us out of here.

Shijama: I hope he comes here fast. This place is starting to give me
the creeps as well.

"Greenwood group!"

Tatsuya Youta: Yes, that's us!

"Your bail has been posted. You all are free to go!"

All: Yippee!!


[Kyosuke's narration]

I decided to bypass the station and go back to the mansion to clean
myself up and bandage myself up. I'm sure Aso would understand.

I couldn't believe what Mishima had told me. Madoka wouldn't have gone
to go see him. He must have said all that stuff just to get me to lose
my cool. No, I can't give in to him. I must be calm.

There was grandpa, sitting on the couch, watching TV. They were
suppose to be making all the arrangements for the special ceremony for
our wedding, but it seems grandma was doing all the work instead. I
ignored him and went upstairs to wash myself up and change my clothes.

As I came down though, I stumbled upon what proved to be the most
important message of my life.

Kyosuke: Message on the answering machine. Must be my sisters asking
for me to bail them out.

"Hello? yes, This is Doctor Nagai. I'm calling to give you the results
of your pregnancy test. I'm pleased to tell you that you are
expecting. Please schedule another appointment so we can discuss this
in further detail. Congratulations!"

(*click*)

(Kyosuke grabs his camera and runs out the door)

[Back at the police station]

Shun: Suka! You're out as well! Thank god!

Hasukawa: I'm glad to be a free man again.

Akane: Thank you everyone for enduring this ordeal. We appreciate the
devotion and dedication.

Taku Morisaki: Are you alright Rikky?

Rikkako Muto: No need to worry about me. This isn't my first time in
jail.

Taku: It isn't?

Rikkako: Of course not. I'm "experienced". There's a lot you still
don't know about me.

Taku: I guess I don't.

Rikkako: Let's go Yumi. No need to waste any more time on this country
bumpkin.

Shijama: Man, that's harsh!

Taku: Don't worry about it; That is what makes her who she is.

Muroke: Officer sir, can you tell me who bailed us out?

Officer; The person in question wishes to remain anonymous.

Muroke: Please sir. Just any hint or clue as to who this benefactor
is? Did he wear sunglasses?

Officer: No, but he was driving a rather loud vehicle.

Muroke: You mean like a motorcycle?

Officer: You can say that. One that needs to be repaired
though. Japanese motorcycles are never that loud.

Muroke: I see your point. Thanks for your help officer!

Tatsuya Youta: You got what you needed?

Muroke: Yeah. Let's go back.


[Down at the shipping docks]

Ryusei: What was the urgency in having me called here?

Kobayashi: Very good for you to come here on short notice
Haroken-san. It seems one of my ships carrying your cargo has hit a
snag.

Ryusei: Snag? Explain.

Kobayashi: Apparently, the ship had some engine problem and had to
stop off in South Africa for repairs.

Ryusei: So there will be a delay incurred.

Kobayashi: I wish it was that simple. The port authorities is now
detaining the the ship for further inspection while the repairs are in
effect.

Ryusei: When will this inspection occur?

Kobayashi: I have asked for an extension until the end of this week.

Ryusei: So there is 4 days left. What do you want me to do?

Kobayashi: I don't know...I thought you would want to know.

Ryusei: Yes, good for you to inform me, but shouldn't you handle this
matter on your own?

Kobayashi: I wish I can. But I fired my president to get this shipment
through, and he is the one in charge of these things and all.

Ryusei: Stop bumbling around. I see I have to take these matters in my
hands. #1. Call up the travel agency and book me on the next flight to
South Africa.

[A few days later...]

Kasuga Kyosuke! Where are you?

I wondered what happened to him. I waited for him at the station, but
he did not come.

Did he know already? If so, why has he disappeared? Did something bad
happen to him?

I called up everyone we knew, but they didn't know where he was. It
was really strange. I was so worried. Where are you when I need you
the most?

Ojiichan: There you are Madoka-chan. Still fretting over Kyosuke?

Madoka: Of course I am. Why is your family so wild?

Ojiichan: It's in the ESPer blood. Urges that strike for no reason.

Madoka: You mean it's normal?

Ojiichan: Yah! That was why for hundreds of years, we were confined
within our own village. Prevented us from getting into trouble. Why I
remember when I was young, I wrestled a snow bear up in the mountains
because I didn't know any better. But now is different. The world is
wide open. Being exposed to it only makes us take bigger risks.

Madoka: So you're saying that Kyosuke probably went off to Bosnia
because of some ESPer hormonal reaction?

Ojiichan: Yep! So you shouldn't worry my dear. He wouldn't do
something so stupid as going back to Bosnia again!

(Madoka gives him a glare)

Ojiichan: Kidding. Can't an old man make a joke here? Here. Have some
green tea.

[Out on the streets of Tokyo]

It was cold and lonesome outside.

My mind was wearing heavily on me. All these thoughts, good and bad
crashing on me like heavy waves.

I needed to be alone all by myself to collect myself.

It reminded me when I was out in the fields of war-ravaged land, the
wind blowing in my face, as I searched for myself, the questions of my
life.

What I was doing here? What did I hope to accomplish? Most importantly,
who am I and what did I want to do with my life?

The basic questions as one transcends from adolescence to adulthood.
The uncertainty of it all.

I thought I knew. I had everything planned out. Me and Madoka were to
get married this May. Afterwards, we would travel around the world. I
would pick up odds and ends photography jobs and pay along the
way. Paris, London, Switzerland, and beyond - it was to be a grand
adventure. And only afterwards would we think about starting a family.

But now my perfect plan was shattered. Madoka was pregnant now. And we
weren't even married yet! And making it worse was the return of
Mishima, her old flame. It was during this time on the streets by
myself in self-doubt and denial that brought out the wicked thoughts
in me. What if this child was not mine? What if it was his?

That was a terrible, evil thought to have. That was why I couldn't
face Madoka just yet. I would just break down if I saw her. I wouldn't
know what to say. Just thinking about it only made me question whether
what we had together was true real love or not? Or was it only a
passing attraction and I was merely a fill-in for who she truly loved?

K: Oh, these damn, wicked thoughts!


"I know what you mean, bud."

K: What? Who are you?

"You may not know me, but I know you!"

K: What the...

"There's been buzz at the bar over ya disappearance. "

K: Ah, I recognize you know. You're the drunk at the bar.

"Oh ho, you are correct! Izzy-moto to the rescue! Mind if I join you?"

K: Suit yourself. It's a free alley.

"And a mighty fine alley you've picked. This use to be my old hangout
from Father heartbreak and midnight blues. Want a swig?" (raises up a
bottle wrapped in a brown paper bag)

K: Nothing to lose. (chugs it, but start to cough)

K: Gawd! What is this stuff?

"Only the finest whiskey in town. Great for cleaning engines too."

K: Geez, you have it back.

(Izzy takes a gulp of the stuff)

Izzy: Ahh...smooooth!

K: Why the hell are you out here anyway? Wasn't the Shin ABCB your
hangout?

Izzy: I decided on a change of surroundings. I'm gonna change my life!

K: (looks at him incredously) You are?

Izzy: Yep. By going back to the place where I hit rock-bottom.

K: What good would that do you?

Izzy: Dunno; but a lady I met up at the bar told me it would help
me. Said it would bring closure to the matter. Fascinating woman, just
like my Yukie. Why, her initials is the same place where that lady is
from!

K: Now, you're not making any sense.

Izzy: Who makes sense anyways? We go through life trying to make sense
of it, but I realize that ya only wasting ya time.

K: Oh? Why so?

Izzy: Life is life. No sense in trying to understand it. It will only
drive you nuts and crazy like me. There is no justice, there is no
logic, no order. That is what life is. Random
unconnectiveness. Things happen because they happen. You just have ta
learn to deal with it.

K: Easy for you to say. You have nothing to lose.

Izzy: How wrong you are! I was the best doyama author you've ever met.
"La la la vacation, how I've missed you so..."

K: You wrote that? Impossible.

Izzy: Anything is possible, bud. Me, - I took my talent for granted.
Jaded and cynical at the producers and directors. Questioning their
intentions. Very unfair. That when I started drinking to relieve me of
the pressure. Got hooked to the bad stuff and it was downhill from
there. Now, here I am with you. What's ya story? It must be pretty
good for you to be in this alley.

K: It's none of your business!

Izzy: Then I'll hazard a guess. From the look on your face, it must be
woman trouble. Am I right? A triangle perhaps?

K: How would know that?

Izzy: I am right! Just as she wrote it. I still have the touch.

K: Don't be so smug!

Izzy: I'm just drunk, that's all. Old drunk talking to future drunk.

K: What are you talking about?

Izzy: That's what you're end up being by keeping it to yourself and
letting it eat away at ya from itself. Very painful, I might add.

K: Eh, what the hell? Nothing to lose right?

Izzy: That's right buddy! We're comrades!

K: What would you do if you found out your girlfriend is pregnant?

Izzy: Woah, big shocker!

K: Yeah, that's what I thought! Now here's the kicker. I'm not sure
who the baby is!

Izzy: Woah, major hangover there!

K: Yeah, tell me about it. Now I'm at my wits end what to do.

Izzy: Ah, that's easy.

K: It is? What would you do?

Izzy: Simple. Depended on how much you really love her or not.

K: That's not an answer.

Izzy: Think about it bud. If you're really involved with her, then it
wouldn't matter who the father was. You will give your love to her and
the baby unconditionally.

K: Unconditionally?

Izzy: Hai. Man, talking with you really cleared up issues for me and
my love life. Thanks bud! I be going to change my life now.

K: Good luck to you. And by the way,thank you.


[Back at Ryokurin Ryo]

Shun: Are you positive?

Muroke: Yes. I double checked their computers. They won't have new
construction vehicles coming in until next week at the earliest.

Shun: Good. That will give us more time to coordinate with Akane-san
over our next plan of action.

Hasukawa: Lucky for us we have a computer wizard in our midst.

Shijama: Even lucky that those machines stopped on their own!

Muroke: It was not luck.

Taku Morisaki: What could have caused those machines to malfunction.

Muroke: You gave me the answer when you told me the model number and
make.

Taku: Honto?

Muroke: Yes. It was all Shinohara's doing!

Shijama: You don't mean my roommate?

Muroke: Yes. As much I do not want to admit it, he was the one
responsible.

Hasukawa: Based on what?

Muroke: This. (takes out some parts)

Shun: Wow, where did you get that?

Muroke: From under Shinohara's bed. Those are only some of the
parts. But as you can see, there is the serial number insignia on this
tubing. I checked it out and it matches to the exact bulldozer that
was downed.

Shijama: I'm beginning to see now...Shinohara's dad's company makes
most of Japan heavy motor works. So he would have first hand access to
what makes these things tick. And of course he would know what parts
to sabotage.

Muroke: Good deduction, Shijama. That is precisely the same conclusion
I came to.

Tatsuya Youta: I don't understand...why would he help?

Muroke: I'm not sure what his reasons are, but that's not all. He also
was the one who bailed us out!

Shijama: Boy, that really blows the mind. Shinohara as a caring human
being. And helping the other side, one which he despises so much.

Taku Morisaki: Sounds very peculiar.

Hasukawa: Then what are we waiting for. We should go and thank him for
his help.

Muroke: That's not a good idea. Knowing Shinohara and his temperament,
he will likely deny the whole thing. He must have his reasons for
keeping this secret from us.

Tatsuya Youta: But we can't go pretend that we don't know what
happened.

Muroke: There will be a time and place for us to repay him. But we
have a more immediate problem. How to stop the construction.

[Kyosuke right at someone's doorstep]

Now I had the courage to face Madoka again and tell her my
feelings. But first thing was to take care of Shiori's photos.

During my self-isolation, I took it upon myself to follow Hayakawa
around some more. It turned out he was seeing 4 different women! He is
such a playboy! How could he do this to Shiori 2 weeks before their
wedding? But I didn't want to be the one to break it to her. I've
damaged my own relationship bad enough. I didn't want to wreck
another. And I couldn't lie to her. That wouldn't be fair to her as
well. She entrusted me to do a job and I have to be true to the
end. So I decided I should confront him, man to man.

I had success reasoning with him before when we first had that
body-changing incident, but our relationship was icy to say the least
after what I witnessed him putting the moves on Madoka while I was
trapped in the other dimension. So I didn't know what to expect from
him the second time around.

(*ding dong*)

Hayakawa: Yes? What do we have here? Madoka's beau at my doorstep! To
what do I owe the pleasure of your visit?

K: Hayakawa-san. There's an important matter I must discuss with you.

Hayakawa: Is that so? If you are concerned that I would snare her to a
contract with the company, then you can rest assured. She said no to
me plenty of times already. Unless she's changed her mind...

K: No, it does not concern Madoka. Rather, I come to discuss things
between you and Shiori.

Hayakawa: I don't see why that is any of your business.

K: You two have something special going. I don't want you to blow it
as a result of your playboyish tendencies. You have to swear off all
your former girlfriends before you get married. Otherwise, you won't
be true to her at all.

Hayakawa: I still fail to see why my love life is any of your concern
at all.

K: Then how about this. (tosses a manilla envelope)

Hayakawa: What in heaven...! Where did you get these pictures!?

K: It doesn't matter how I got them. I just did. You better clean up
your act right now. I don't want you to break Shiori-san's heart later
on.

Hayakawa: Ha! Who do you think I am? I never change my ways.

K: You can't be serious!

Hayakawa: I'm perfectly serious. I have admired the feminine form and
will continue to admire it for as long as I live. Only that now, I've
learned to admire it from afar.

K: Say what?

Hayakawa: Alas, you clearly misinterpret my visiting these girls. If
you had any showbiz sense, you would realize that they are much too
young for me. I have no interest in teeny-boppers. And if you had any
semblance of the music scene, you would recognize these ladies in a
heartbeat.

K: I am rusty in that aspect. Enlighten me.

Hayakawa: You are hopeless. Thank god Madoka's got the musical
talent. What you see here in these 4 ladies is my next up and coming
group act. That's Nana, ...and over here is Lina,..there's Reina...and
last is Mina. They were formerly with the group the Supermonkeys.

K: How do I know if you're not pulling a fast one over me?

Hayakawa: Quite the disbeliever, aren't you? Fine. Take a look at
this. You're the photographer, you tell me who's on the cover on this
album.

K: They look very similar...I guess you're right.

Hayakawa: I am happy to see your eyes have not failed on you. As you
can see, my chief rival TK just snagged the biggest music act in
Japan: Amuro Namie, also formerly of the Supermonkeys. With these 4
girls, I plan counter him.

K: It seems I was mistakened about you.

Hayakawa: It seems you were indeed. But being the good guy that I am,
I'll let you off the hook this time. You can make it up to me if you
can induce Madoka to sign a record contract.

K: That's not my call; it's totally up to her.

Hayakawa: Yeah, sure it is, but drop some hints on my behalf, will ya?
Now if you would excuse me...

K: I'm sorry for the disturbance...I'll get out of your way.

Hayakawa: Very good. Goodbye! (slams door behind him)

(A lady comes out of the bedroom)

"Kazuto, it seems that I misjudged you. I'm sorry."

Hayakawa: You heard the whole thing, didn't you Shiori.

"Yes. Every word."

Hayakawa: Good. I hope it allays your fears about me. I know I have my
failing points, but I promise once we're married, that I'll be the
most devoted and doting husband. But one thing at a time. You lick, I
paste.

[At the Ayukawa Mansion]

(Madoka is leaving)

"Mado-chan. Do you have a moment?"

M: Ahh, Syuujirou. You startled me.

Mishima: I am sorry if I did that.

Madoka: If you wanted to see me, why didn't you ring the bell?

Mishima: I wanted us to be alone. I saw you had company. (points
through the window to ojiichan watching TV) I called you, but you
didn't return my calls.

Madoka: I'm sorry about that. I wasn't in the mood for talking then.
But you're here in person.

Mishima: Can we go somewhere more private?

Madoka: What place were you thinking?

Mishima: Our old hangout by the Old Tokyo districts. Is that ok with
you?

Madoka: I don't know if we should go there...

Mishima: Are you afraid?

Madoka: I-I-I...not sure of myself.

Mishima: You use to love it when I took you there to stare at the
twinkling lights. Have you forgotten already?

Madoka: No...I don't think I should be going places with you. It would
send the wrong message.

Mishima: Why not? We can finish what we started... (gets closer to her
to kiss her)

M: (pushes him away) I'm sorry I gave you the wrong impression back in
your hotel room. I was too weak to resist you then. And I truly sorry
for throwing up on your suit and running out like that. But I think I
should now make myself clear between you and me. We had something
special back then, but that was in the past. A lot of things have
changed since then to both of us. I think it would be best if we both
moved on. We had special moments of which whose memory I will
forever treasure. But my heart lies with Kyosuke and it has from the
very beginning, even before you came into my life. It wouldn't be
fair to lead you on. If I was, I apologize. But I'm ending this right
now. No more games, no more charades.

Mishima: You really made up your mind on the matter?

M: It was made up a long time ago.

Mishima: I see there is no changing your mind once it's made up. There
is one quality I would forever admire about you, my dear
Mado-chan. Which greatly disheartens me as to what I have to do.

M: What do you mean?

Mishima: Just as you have your personal business, I have my own
business to carry out. I came here tonight with the hopes of
persuading you to see the light and how your boyfriend Kasuga was
wrong for you. I felt our special spark return in that hotel
room. Even you could not deny it then. Had it not been for your
unfortunate accident, things would have gone further. However, you
choose to deny your raw feelings for me. So regrettably, I must carry
on with the demolishment.

M: I don't understand...

Mishima: Your boyfriend, Kasuga has been butting heads with me, trying
to halt my company's plans concerning development of the Orange Road
area. Very fanatical to the point of sabotage of my building
equipment. I was going to reconsider the matter on account of you, but
seeing that it has ended between us, I feel no personal obligation
anymore. Say goodbye to your Orange Road for one last time. Ja
Mado-chan.


[At Greenwood]

(Muroke is typing away at his computer)

I was torn between betraying my loyalty to my former boss or letting
the other side bear the brunt of our averted disaster. Either
proposition was not good. But in the end, I decided Master Haroken
plans must be stopped.

Muroke: <Forgive me Haroken-san for what I have to do.>

(presses the ENTER key, and we see on screen a dialog box displaying:)

PROCESSING....

Request for audit submitted.... Party: XYZ Studios Incorporated...
Submittion Date: April 13, 1995.

[Kyosuke walking]

I checked back at the mansion, but found out from Ojiichan that she
had already left. Probably to look for me again. I had a good scolding
from ojiichan who pulled me by the ear and preached about the merits
of being a good ESPer husband. I managed to flash out of there just in
the nick of time.

Now we were two lost souls, looking for each other. Where would she
look for me? I decided it had to be the place where we first met. At
the top of 100 steps. No need to walk; I have the Power! Just teleport
over there.

But when I got there, I was disappointed. No sign of her
anywhere. Although from the overhead view, I could see our old Green
Castle Apartments, and over there was the old ABCB and...


There!


I saw her shiny red sports car parked nearby the construction
zone. What was she doing there?

I didn't wait, so I quickly flashed over there. Even though it was
dusk, I saw the light outside from within the ABCB. She must be in
there. I decided to take a look.

I heard the gentle jingle of the door's bell as I entered. And there I
saw her, my Madoka, standing from behind the counter.

It was like a flashback to the past. She was dressed in her old ABCB
uniform and her hair was tied up. She looked so glorious and
magnificent. I, on the other hand looked like a bum who hadn't shaved
in three days and whose breath reeks of alcohol.

Madoka: Hello stranger. Care for a cup of coffee?

Kyosuke: It's me Madoka. Kyosuke.

Madoka: (ignoring him as she pours him a cup of coffee) Will that be
one lump or two?

Kyosuke: Didn't you hear me? I'm Kyosuke!

Madoka: (looks at him coyly) One lump or two?

Kyosuke: (deciding to play along) One lump please.

Madoka: Here you go. Better drink it while it's hot. It tastes better
that way.

Kyosuke; Domo. (sips the coffee in) Ahhh. Excellent.

Madoka: It better be. The ABCB serves the best coffee in the area.

Kyosuke: It sure does. The ABCB is the best place to visit around
here. It was where I fell in love with my girlfriend.

Madoka: Is that so?

Kyosuke: Yes, but I have been a selfish jerk, neglecting her and my
duties. I ran out and went into hiding, trying to figure things out
on my own. Out of that I realized one thing.

Madoka: You did? What did you figure out?

Kyosuke: That I can't make the decision on my own. That the best thing
was to figure them out with her together, along with our child. They
are what is most important to me, and I wouldn't know what to do at
all and would be better off dead if I were ever to lose them.

Madoka; (breaks down) Oh Kasuga-kun!

(starts to sob as they embrace each other)

[At Goro Shimazaki's mansion]

Mishima: Why have you called me here again?

Goro Shimazaki: I am quite disappointed. I thought we had a deal.

Mishima: We do. I had issues to contend with.

Goro: Which issue is more important? Mine or yours?

Mishima: I assure you, I will carry out what we agreed upon.

Goro: My patience runs thin! You must not know who you're dealing
with.

Mishima: Many apologies. (bows) I assure you I have everything under
control.

Goro: Is that so? Then what is your plan for eliminating that nosy
photographer?

Mishima: A little "accident" I have planned at the construction
site. With the perfect bait to lure him in.

Goro: An excellent plan. But I want nothing to go wrong.

Mishima: Nothing will.

Goro: Nothing will as long as my associate accompanies you.

Mishima: I work alone.

Goro: Not this time...not when you're working with me. Colonel, you
may come out now...

(we see Colonel Kijima emerge from the shadows)

Goro: You will work with him to get the job done. When it is finished,
he can bring me back the head as proof of your work.

Mishima: If you wish it, then it shall done so.

Goro: Good. (*clanks the two metal balls in his hands*) I can't wait.
Br-ha-ha-ha-ha!!!!

[The next morning]


[At XYZ Studios]

(Nagasi is all alone by herself in the office)

Nagasi: Just great! So boring! Ryusei-baby decides to take a hike and
Mishima-san has been too busy to even see me. Major bummer! I should
get A to massage my feet and B to massage my shoulders.

Guy C: Maam! It's no good!

Nagasi: What the hell are you talking about? I don't pay you to
babble!

Guy C: It's the tax collection people! They're here.

Nagasi: Here? That's impossible. Taxes are on April 15. They have no
right to be here unless it's an...

"Audit."

Nagasi: Who are you and these people?

"Allow me to introduce myself. HAKURA Ryoko, tax inspector of the
revenue collection agency. Beside me are my agents, Sato and
Wanago. We are here to conduct an audit of your agency."

Nagasi: This is crazy! I received no notification at all!

"You must have received it, for this inspection is registered in our
computers."

Nagasi: But we're not prepared at all!

"That is not my concern. Me and my men are prepared to stay as long as
it is necessary. Please bring out all the financial records dating
back to three years ago.

Nagasi: You heard the lady! Get the rest to help you out. <Grr!
Ryusei, I'm going to get you!!!!>


[Back at Channel 12 station]

(A farewell party is taking place)

"For she's a jolly good fellow, for she's a jolly good fellow, for
she's a jolly good fel-low! That nobody can deny!"

"Kumpai!"

Kyosuke: Mind if I join in on the party?

Aso Tamaki: Kyosuke! You've made it. I was worried you. You been gone
this whole week.

Kyosuke: I'm sorry for my absence, but I had issues to contend
with. But I would have missed your farewell party for anything. This
is my farewell party as well.

Aso Tamaki: No, you shouldn't leave on account of me. I'm sure the
station will hire new people. Or perhaps you want to have this job
instead.

Kyosuke: Thanks, but no thanks. I have my reasons. It was a good
experience working with you. I can see you have a lot of raw talent
oozing within you. You will do well at TTV Studios.

Aso Tamaki: Arrigatou, Kasuga-san. Then I toast you to your
farewell. Along with this Aoki award.

Kyosuke: Wow! You finally got it!

Aso Tamaki: Hai! All thanks to you!

Kyosuke; No, the credit belongs to you exclusively.

Aso Tamaki: You're too modest. Oh, I almost forgot. Here.

(hands him a folder)

Kyosuke: What is this?

Aso Tamaki: A surprise and my parting gift to you. I have worked on
with a local university professor. It is quite controversial, but I
know you of all people would understand my motives. But open it
afterwards, when you have time.

Kyosuke: I will. Let's go party!

[Back at Akane's headquarters]

Manami: What are you beaming about?

Akane: I found my outfielders for the baseball game.

Kurumi: Is that all? Shouldn't you be worried about what to do for the
ABCB?

Akane: I am! That is why I'm working closely with Shun-san.

Kurumi: A little too close.

Akane: What was that?

Manami: Ignore her. So who are the outfielders?

Akane: You would never believe it! They seem to share the same belief
that we do. All except the ditzy one, but once she attends enough of
our meetings, she'll drop that women should serve men attitude.

[After the Aso Tamaki celebration]

"Kasuga-san. Someone dropped this note for you."

Kyosuke: Thank you Miagi-san.

Let's us settle this once and for all. You and me. The victor gets
the final say on what happens to Orange Road. Be there. Sunday
12:00pm at the ABCB.

M. S.

Kyosuke crumples the piece of paper and stuffs it into his jeans.

Kyosuke: I will be there. You can count on it!


(several weeks later)

[The Baseball Game]

(Muroke's commentary)

This was the big day for everyone. The baseball game to decide the
whole marbles. No possibility of a tie or other surprises. There was
to be an ultimate winner and loser.

The game was postponed until the end of finals in May. That assured
everyone's participation for this big event.

It was a glorious day for baseball. The big sky overhead and glaring
sun. It was gorgeous weather for baseball on the big open green field.

Umpiring was the head RA's friend, Mitsuru Ikeda. On the men's side,
we had the following: Tatsuya Youta was our star pitcher; Shun was the
catcher; Taku was at first; Manny, Tatusya's roommate was at
second. Yoshiki was at shortstop. Shijama was at third; Shinohara was
in right field; Kazuhiro Hasukawa was in left; his wife was our
cheerleader! Last, our dorm master Hasukawa was the player coach
manning center-field. Our base coaches were Furusawa and Aoki
Kunihisa, and Hideya Sakaguichi.

On the woman's side, Akane, the fiery redhead was the pitcher; Kurumi
was the catcher; Manami was the third baseman; Rikkako Muto was the
shortstop; Kohama Yumi was the second baseman; her cousin Natsumi was
playing first. In the outfield were the 3 strangely dressed ladies
whom we met at the motorbike race competition.

And they had as coaches players from the renown Waseda baseball team,
including Hayashibara Akira and Shimamoto Asou!

We even had a cheerleader of sorts: Sumire Hasukawa, who made treats
for everyone. I have to say they were quite tasty!

You might be wondering about me; I was a reserve or bench-warmer. My
job was mostly to keep track of the player personnel. Although I was a
rabid fan of baseball, I knew I was too short and not athletic enough
to play any of the positions, so I deferred it to my fellow
dorm-mates.

Mitsuru Ikeda: PLAY BALL!

I could tell you what happened during the whole game, but that would
be pretty boring. That is one of the main complaints about baseball
being too long. However, I feel it is the most endearing part of the
game, for you can experience the total feeling. Nothing is rushed as
you witness the ultimate confrontation between pitcher and batter. But
I digress.

Tatsuya Youta pitched a good game, but he was let down by errors in
the outfield, particularly by Shinohara. For a macho guy like him, I
thought he would be much better. But he seemed too mechanical in his
approach.

On the other side, our tremendous smashes were being snared by the
mysterious assembled outfield trio. I never seen players so graceful,
and my the height they could jump! I never seen anything like it. I
could have sworn they must be from a professional women's softball
league.

As the game bumped and dragged, we had the hot-headed Kurumi kicked
out for arguing balls and strikes. My, she does look very scary when
she is angry. But it didn't matter, for the ladies team had already
amassed 3 runs by the time of the ninth. Our anemic offense could
muster up no runs.

And so there it was. It was the bottom of the ninth and our team was
down 3 runs and there were 2 outs. Things were bleak, and it looked
unlikely we could come back. The ladies were already congratulating
themselves for a job well done.

As I sat there with my laptop on my lap as I crunched and analyzed
data gathered throughout the game, I decided to do my part of the
game. Although I was a reserve, I figured there was more than one way
to play the game, even if it's not on the field. Half the battle in
baseball is figuring out trends and probability.

First up was Hasukawa. I told him that throughout the game, they were
jamming him, so stay alert for an inside fastball. Indeed, I was right
as he jumped on that very pitch and turned it into a double. Next up
was Taku. I told him to lay off the breaking balls. He heeded my
advice, laying off the curve and slider to bring the count to 2 and
0. Akane, the pitcher was forced to throw him a fastball down the
middle which Taku turned into a single up the middle. Hasukawa was
held up at third for fear he might be thrown out for the final out by
the center fielder, which he did in prior innings. We were all worried
about who was up next: Shinohara. He waved off any advice I tried to
gave him and calmly walked up to the plate. Akane glared it and
quickly there were 2 strikes which whizzed passed him. He nonchalantly
looked on, disinterested. We were all moaning and groaning at his
apathy. He had the most to lose from this game, but he didn't care.

Then he just did something so strange and peculiar. He leaned on his
bat on the ground like a cane and just whistled merrily, like a man
awaiting execution before the firing squad. Now we all knew he must
have really lost it. But something amazing happened. That gesture
apparently inflamed Akane, for she probably thought he was showing her
up. It threw off her concentration and timing. So with that pent-up
emotion carried over from the previous competitions, she overthrew the
ball, leading to 4 straight high ones and a walk for our side.

We all looked at each other as the bases were loaded and we had a
chance. Our best player, Tatsuya Youta, accomplished amateur baseball
player was up. He had been the one bright spot, our star performer
throughout the whole afternoon. Already, he had a single, double, and
a triple. He only needed a home-run for the cycle. It would also mean
we would win the game! So we chanted his name in bated anticipation,
like our own Casey. But he never emerged from the dugout. There was
panic as each of us frantically looked around for him. But to no
avail. Where was he?

(inside the locker-room)

We see Tatsuya tied up and gagged and inside a locker!

Hatta: Are you sure it's a good idea?

Komatsu: Course it is! Once we help the girls win, we'll get all their
love and affection! Girls dig that. Besides, it's payback time against
that pipsqueak #2 and his sidekick #1 for shafting the basketball
game.

Hatta: But only that little kid is involved here.

Komatsu: Who cares? One at a time. I can't wait to see the look on the
girls' faces!

(Back to the game)

Umpire Mitsuru: Hasukawa! Listen. We've been waiting for you for 5
minutes now for the next batter. But I can't hold up the game, or else
it would be unfair for the opposing team. Either get a player up in
the next minute or I'm going to have to call the game.

Shun: Sempai! You can't that?

Umpire Mitsuru: (fixes his hat) I MUST! It is for the integrity of the
game.

Shun: Gee, he's taking his umpiring duties very seriously.

Hasukawa: No time now. You! (points to Muroke) You get into the game!

Muroke: Me?

Hasukawa: Yeah you. You're our only substitute left. Otherwise, we
forfeit the game.

Shun: Come on Koji-san! You're own only hope.

Muroke: But I...

Hasukawa: No buts! Just go out there and give it your best shot. We'll
all be rooting for you. (retreats back to third base)

Shun: Yeah! Do your best!

Muroke: Hai.

Umpire Mitsuru: Play ball!

I stood up at the plate, holding the bat awkwardly. I love to watch
baseball as a past-time, keeping track of statistics and scores of all
my favorite players on the Tokyo Giants and such, but playing it was
another matter.

I swung mightily at the first two pitches and badly missed. Soon, the
shouts of "We're #1" start emanating from the other dugout. I saw the
long faces of my teammates as they shared in my suffering.

"Calm down" I told myself. Use your head. What would I do as the
pitcher if I was ahead 0-2? I would probably try to get the batter to
swing at a bad pitch. So playing a hunch, I let the next pitch
pass. It was very risky, for the pitch was on the outside, hugging the
corner. The umpire start to raise his right hand as to ring me up for
the next strike, but I breathed a sigh of relief as he indicated it
was a ball. Akane was hopping on the hill. She couldn't believe it was
a ball. She picked up the rosin and tossed it a few times before
entering her stance. I was ahead 1-2. I decided to tempt fate again
and anticipated another waste pitch. There, the pitch came, a slider
screaming by right on the outside corner. I flinched and closed my
eyes for a brief moment, then opened it again. The pitch was way
outside. A brow of sweat came flowing down my forehead. This was
pressure-packed. Everyone in the crowd could feel the electricity of
the moment of the classic battle of pitcher and batter. The count was
now even at 2-2. This was the point of no return for both the pitcher
and batter. The point where each combatant had an equal chance for
success. I focused intently on the pitcher as she glared menacingly
back at me. It was a showdown; a test of wills. I geared up as the
pitch came. I swung -- halfway then stopped. The pitch was way
low. But I wasn't sure if I had gone around. I looked back at the
umpire for the call. Everyone in the ballpark froze at that instant.

"Ball, no swing!"

I started to hyperventilate now. That was the closest call of my
life. The pitcher was now raging, face red matching her hair now,
furious at the call. I knew then what was coming. The high hard one,
the fastball down the middle. The in-your-face exclamation point
pitch. I called time out as I stepped out of the batter's box to
collect my thoughts. I looked in the other dugout at Manami. She waved
to me. I knew then I couldn't let her down. I was going to win this
game, one way or another.

Emboldened with this new-found confidence, I reentered the box with
added energy. I growled back at the pitcher:

"Give me your best shot!" I said in my mind.

Here was the windup, the pitch blaring down towards me, like a
heat-seeker. I swung with every ounce of my strength and I..."

(Point just before the play)

Kurumi: I saw you wave at that short-stuff. Don't try to deny it!

Manami: So what if I did? Just a friendly wave to the other side,
that's all!

Kurumi: I don't believe you, trying to hide this! You're such a
traitor! I don't believe you would sell out the group!

Manami: What are you talking about?

Kurumi: I know all about you and your secret correspondence with
him. It's all in here! (Grabs the journal book Manami carried and
takes out printouts)

Kurumi: See! Email messages back and forth for the past 3 months!

Manami: What? How could you look at my private journal?

Kurumi: Good thing I did. Otherwise I wouldn't have been on to you,
trying to help your poor weak boyfriend by using the Power! to help
him hit a home-run. Of all the low-down, rotten things...

Manami: You're out of your mind! First of all, he's not my boyfriend
and second, I had no such intention of aiding him in any way.

Kurumi: I don't believe you! I'm going to stop you! (grabs Manami and
struggles with her)

(back to the play)

....I MISSED! I didn't believe it! How I had pumped myself up for that
moment. I thought I could come through. But I didn't. Why did I even
believe I had a chance? It was such an empty, hollow feeling, striking
out at the most critical moment.

As I turned away from home plate to head back to the dugout, Hasukawa
was blaring down on me.

"Run, you fool! Run!"

"What are you talking about?

As he crossed home plate, he pushed me towards first base and pointed
to the ball.

"Wild pitch! Go!"

Indeed it was. I had blocked out the noise around me and thus failed
to realize the pitch went past the catcher. I ran with all my might to
first base.

(back to the dugout)

Manami: Stop this! We're not in a wrestling match!

Kurumi: No I will not,you double-crosser back stabber!

(both ladies shimmer with the Power! flashing randomly. Suddenly a
surge bursts out, striking the baseball!)

Crowd: Wow! Look at that ball! Looks like it has a mind of its
own. Look at it still go! Must be a trick ball!

When I rounded first, I saw the ball being retrieved by the
catcher. Hasukawa had scored along with Taku-san. Shinohara had
stopped at third. I wasn't sure what compelled me to do so, but I ran
for second. It was not a smart play, especially since it was two outs
and we already had the tying run in scoring position. But my head was
so worked up that it couldn't think clearly now. Just then,the
catcher manage to grab a hold of the ball which she fumbled a few
times and threw towards second. I slid and looked up. The ball had
somehow sailed above the second baseman's head. Shinohara went for
home, tying up the score, while the center fielder frantically was
trying to retrieve the jumping ball which somehow had reached the
fence in deep center.

I easily made it to third base on the error at third, but now I had a
decision to make. Should I stay at third, since we had tied the game
and I didn't want to risk getting thrown out. But the center fielder
had not caught up with the ball yet. There was a moment of
indecision. Should I go for it or not? Hesitate too long and it would
be too late. Should I take this risk or not? All my life I hesitated,
but now here, not now. I decided to go for it. I immediately raced
for home.

I could hear the chants of "Run!, Run!" as I raced down the basepads
to the best of my ability. I could see the crazed, wide-open faces of
my teammates in slow motion, as they waved their hands wildly urging me
to round the bases. Halfway down third, I was beginning to run out of
gas, huffing and puffing, gasping for air. I looked back for one last
time and saw one of the fielders had stopped the ball with a long
mallet stick they had been carrying on the back and threw what was a
rocket strike towards home! I was going to be thrown out! But I said
what the hell. There was no turning back now, so I went for broke. I
had nothing to lose except the wrath and ridicule of my teammates. But
that didn't matter at all. So with the last ounce of my strength, I
beared down on the catcher as he came in block off the plate.

But instead of the catcher, I saw the pitcher Akane standing there
waiting for me. Apparently, the catcher was out of position, having
come into the game to substitute for Kurumi's ejection. So now it was
between me and her again. I was still a few feet away when she caught
the ball. My only chance was to knock the all out. I ran like a
maurauding ram, ready to butt heads with the 300 pound gorilla. There
was a massive collision; I fell unconscious...

(We see #2 slide into the awaiting tag at home plate. We see the
umpire getting ready to call him out. In the dugout, Kurumi and Manami
are still fighting. At that very moment, Manami gives one powerful
push at Kurumi which unleashes a pulse of the Power! at...

"You're OUuuuuu--SAFE!"

The ball lay harmlessly away from the glove, having mysteriously
popped out.

Akane; (wide-eyed) So na! No way! Impossible!

Umpire Mitsuru: Ball-game is over! Final Score of 4 to 3 in favor of
Greenwood!

[After the ball-game @ the Shin ABCB]

(Yukari is on stage performing "We are the champions")

(We see Tatsuya Youta rubbing his wrists)

Tatsuya Youta: Thanks for freeing me from my captivity!

Shijama: No problem. Who could have done this to you? Perhaps from the
girls group?

Tatsuya Youta: It might be. But it doesn't matter. Forgive and forget.


Muroke; Come on Taku-san. This is your chance now.

Taku: I'm starting to lose my nerve. I do that whenever I'm around
her.

Muroke: Don't be. Here. (pushes him)

Rikkako Muto: Hey! Watch where you're going. Oh, it's you.

Taku: Hello Rikkako. Nice celebration party.

Rikkako: Maybe for you perhaps. But not for us. We lost.

Taku: You shouldn't focus so much on winning and losing. The main
point is that we all had fun today.

Rikkako: It hardly matters in my book.

Taku: Then you should change your book!

Rikkako: (surprised) What?

Taku: You've takened this men vs women thing much too far. You should
let go of it. I am not your enemy. This rivalry has ended. Even your
lauded leader Akane and my RA are having fun together. (points to
them) If you want to act like a child and keep this up, then we should
forget about having a "serious" relationship.

Rikkako: Are you finished?

Taku: Yes and you'd better not slap me!

Rikkako: I won't. I want to say I'm sorry for the sassy way I've been
acting. I let my competitive spirits get the better of me and went
overboard.

Taku: Apology accepted.

Rikkako: To make it up to you, I'll order a special exotic drink for
you called 'The Big Dipper'. Can you handle it bathtub boy?

Taku: (grins) Sure. I'll give it my best shot.

(seg-way to Muroke and Manami)

Muroke: Hi Manami. Good game today. Sorry your side lost.

Kurumi: Stay away form my sister or I'll pound you even shorter!

Manami: Cool it Kurumi! Don't make me get the rope. Don't pay
attention to her. She is still sore about the game.


Muroke: I hope this will make things better. (hands her an envelope)

Manami: What is it?

Muroke: Open it up and you'll see.

Manami: A letter?

Muroke: Read what it says.

"...This is to inform you that your submitted story has been selected
as the recipient of the annual Japan Creative Writing Contest for
Award for 1995."

Manami: How can this be? I didn't enter anything.

Muroke: But you did. Or I did on your behalf. The snippets of the
short story you emailed to me; I submitted it to this contest and you
won the top prize.

Manami: You mean the "MMM" story?

Muroke: That's the one. Guess what you win?

Manami: I don't know. I'm still too shocked. They really liked what I
wrote?

Muroke: They sure did. Enough to send you abroad for summer study at
Stanford. What do you think?

Manami: Study abroad? I hadn't planned on that.

Muroke: You better decide quick. You only have a week to decide.

Manami: This is a wonderful surprise. I wonder what will happen next.

[In comes Shinohara!]

(A collective hush resides over the room)

Tatsuya Youta: Let's hear it for Shinohara-san!

Shinohara raises his hand: No need for formalities. This will be
short. (walks up to Akane) Akane Kasuga.

Akane: Yeah? What do you want from me now? You want to rub it in? Go
ahead. I don't care. But I won't say that men are better than women.

Shinohara: No. You were clearly the better team. It was a fluke the
game turned this way. That is why I am informing you that I will no
longer be attending Waseda next semester. I will be transferring out,
as per agreed. Your group can now operate with no disturbance. That
is all.(walks out)

Akane: Spooky!

Manami: It sure is. He didn't have to do that.

Shun: I wonder what compelled him to do that.

Kurumi: This is so creepy! What else could happen next?

[In bursts Komatsu and Hatta!]

(They are wearing white hats and aprons and carrying signs)

Komatsu: Hey everybody!

Hatta: It's the grand opening of 'Hungry Hattas'.

Komatsu: Yeah. We have a free all you can eat special right now.

Kurumi & Manami: Free good! Let's go!

(everyone starts stampeding out)

Shijama: Where are you going?

Muroke: I'm going to see Shinohara to find out what's going on and to
persuade him to reconsider.

Shijama: Then I'm coming.

Tatsuya Youta: I am with you too.

Taku: As am I.

Hasukawa: I can't be left out.

Shun: Count me in as well.

Muroke: Then, let us go together.

[At Ryokurin Ryo]

(They all go up and find Shinohara all packed up and ready to go. He
is sitting quietly in front of his elaborate entertainment center
watching what appears to be ROLW episodes.)

Shun: Shinohara-san! What are you doing?

Shinohara: Viewing my favorite show before I depart. This equipment
will be donated to the house after I leave.

Muroke: Oh no you don't. You have some explaining to do. And none of
that mumbo jumbo stuff.

Shinohara: My decision is already clear. I am leaving this house and
transferring to the Tokyo Police Academy.

Shun: So you're not doing this because of Akane?

Shinohara: Of course not. She was a worthy competitor, but she did not
factor in. I do hope that I don't encounter another short-haired,
fiery redhead there.

Tatsuya Youta: Don't worry; very unlikely. But why the academy?

Shinohara: It's what I always wanted to do. Serve and protect the
public. My dad thought otherwise and wanted to give me a desk job in
his corporation. So I did what he told me. Like the good little
soldier. But I saw how you rallied together with the other side to
fight an impossible battle. I realized I was the real coward all this
time. But no more. You shown me the way. I plan to stand up to my
father and do what I think is right for me.

Muroke: That's a very noble thing. And we know that you contributed in
your own way to help us stop the destruction. That is why we want you
to join in the celebration. Please come.

Shinohara: You won't stop harassing me?

Taku: Not in one bit!

Shinohara: I suppose my OAV's can wait. I wish they make it into a TV
series.

Shijama: You think?

Tatsuya: Maybe that can be our next project. We can organize something
like a petition for that.

Hasukawa: That's a great idea, but food comes first. Let's get there
before the ladies devour it all up!

(Izzy interruption)

"Hullo folks! You're probably wondering what's going on here. What
happen to the Orange Road project and all that other stuff. Why's the
sequence of events all screwed up!? Perfectly valid questions. I went
drinkin' with the Master and kind of got him hung over. But here's the
rest of the story...

[That fateful Sunday]

Obaachan: Madoka-chan.

Madoka: Yes obaasan? What is it?

Obaachan: Doing laundry when found this piece of paper in jeans. Give
to you.

(Madoka reads it and turns ghastly white.)

[The Showdown]

(Kyosuke enters the ABCB)

Kyosuke: I'm here Mishima! What are you waiting for? Let's do this.

Mishima: (appears outside at the door) You have come.

Kyosuke: What do you want with me?

Mishima: You want to save your beloved road.

Kyosuke: Of course I do.

Mishima; How badly?

Kyosuke: What is this stupid line of questioning? What do you want?

Mishima: Everything you have. Starting with Madoka!


(*BOOOOOMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM!!!!!!*)

(A giant hole appears to the right wall side of the ABCB!)

Kyosuke: What? A wrecking ball?

Mishima: Since you love this place so much, you might as well go down
with the ship. Sayonara!


(*BOOOMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM!!!!!!*)

(As Mishima walks away, someone approaches him)

Madoka: Syuujirou! What are you doing?

Mishima: Mado-chan! What are you doing here? Get out of here!

Madoka: Not unless you tell me what you've done to Kyosuke!

Mishima: It was a man to man thing. He lost and paid the price. Forget
him now.

Madoka; There's no way I'll ever forget him! Not when I'm carrying his
child!

Mishima: Noooo! That bastard can't have the last word.

Madoka: Please tell me. What happened to him?

Mishima: Look out! (pushes Madoka out of the way)

(The wrecking ball bounces into Mishima!)

(Mishima lies on the ground, blood spurting from his mouth)

Madoka: Syuujirou! (grabs his hand) You saved me.

Mishima: I-I...always will ....protect you...S-s-sa...yo...na...

(drops his hand)

"...ra".

(We see Madoka crying over the fallen body of Mishima. As this is
transpiring, we see a figure slip away from the construction crane)

"Madoka..."

(Madoka looks up as she sees Kyosuke crawling out)

Madoka: Kyosuke! (runs to him)

(we see blood coming from his mouth as well)

Kyosuke: Was hit...used Power! to deflect blow but still...(falls
unconscious in Madoka's arms)


[At Goro Shimazaki's mansion]

Goro Shimazaki: You have returned colonel. Speak! Has it been done?

Colonel Kijima: Yes, my master. Both the photographer and Mishima have
been eliminated, as you wished.

Goro: Good...Now the project shall be canceled and Haroken will be
forced to do my bidding. It is what I have projected...Br ha ha ha ha
ha!!!

[At Tokyo General]

(The twins, Akane, Kazuya carrying Jingoro, ojiichan and obaasan at
his bedside.)

Kyosuke: Kyaa...

Akane: The buckaroo is awake again!

Manami: Oniichan's ok. Thank kami-san!

Kurumi: Oniichan. Stop being a weakling. You end up in the hospital
too much.

Kazuya: He'll never change. Instead of superman, he's super weakling!

Kyosuke: Kazuya!

Ojiichan: Don't yell Kyosuke! Bad for your chest wounds. We were all
praying for you, isn't that right obaasan?

Obaachan: Oi, oi.

Kyosuke: Thank you all. But where's Madoka?

"Here I am."

Kyosuke: What happened?

Madoka: The doctor said you suffered minor internal bleeding, but you
will be fine. (turns on the TV)

Manami: Something special on?

Madoka: Look! (points)

"Aso Tamaki live on the scene of the construction site where the area
has been sealed off over the mysterious homicide over the
weekend. Latest developments have revealed from sources that Yamazumi
Kensetsu Industries, the company behind the construction work has
canceled the project. Recently, the company has been under the
scrutiny of a public audit and are facing corruption
charges. Reporting for TTV Channel 5, back to you."

Kyosuke: Yokata! ABCB and Orange Road are saved.

[At the Shin ABCB]

Komatsu: Boo hoo! This is so sad!

Hatta: We're so pitiful! We lost our pad in the red-light district and
now we have no place to go.

"Hello fellows. What are you so glum?"

Komatsu: Is that you? Izzy?

"That I am, and don't you forget it."

Hatta: You look so different when you're...

"Sober? Yes. I decided to make a change for the better. See where it
leads me. What's troubling you fellows?"

Komatsu: We don't have our studios anymore. And since Yamazumi
Kensetsu canceled the construction project, we won't have our office
building!

Izzy: What did you get then?

Komatsu: A big fat zero.

Izzy: Honto?

Hatta: Not exactly. We got this crummy old ABCB cafe, which has a big
hole on the right side.

Izzy: Then why don't you fix up the place and work there?

Komatsu: We could, but why would we want to waste our money on that
dump?

Master: It's a good place. She served me well. She will serve you
well too.

Hatta: We could never keep the place as well as you could Master.

Izzy: Nothing to lose, right?

Komatsu: But the repairs...we ain't that kind of money for that!

Hatta: We could hawk our sports car...

Komatsu: Don't even think about it! I need those wheels to cruise for
chicks!

Hatta: Come on Komatsu. We can do it. Besides, Master had the cute
Madoka-san working for him when he had the place. We can hire
ourselves a couple of pretty honeys.

Komatsu: Waitresses..(mouth starts to salivate) in short tight
skirts...I like it! But why would we need two?

Hatta: For the extension we're be adding.

Komatsu: Extension? What extension?

Hatta: Since there's a hole on the right wall, I figure it would be
better to add another unit to the place. I figure a place that serves
burgers and stuff would be great. I always wanted to eat burgers
there. Now's my chance.

Komatsu: Hmmm...a place that sells drinks and burgers! Sounds like a
plan to me.

Hatta: And I have the perfect name for the extension: Hungry Hatta's!


[At Greenwood, the end of the semester]

Shun: Suka! Are you sure this is really necessary?

Hasukawa: It is. It was the only way we could persuade Shinohara to
stay a few days longer. Is Mitsuru here?

(right behind his right shoulder) "You mean me?"

Hasukawa: Gyaa! You scared me!

Mitsuru Ikeda: You scare easy.

Shun: Good one sempai!

Hasukawa: Alright! Gather everyone.

The greatest of the Greenwood gang is gone, and I'll be soon
departing. It is time to pass on the torch and tradition of this
house. To mark this occasion, I shall perform the ceremony akin to the
memory of my sempai.

(goes behind a room and returns to feature medieval garb and carrying
a scepter!)

Hasukawa: Here beside me is one of the original founders Mitsuru
Ikeda. Now, as the current honorary elder, this ritual shall I
perform. What crossed these hallowed halls are heroes of ancient past,
old and new, harkening for truth, justice, and honor - abstract
concepts derived of the human mind. What may became of this shrine,
desecrated, defiled, and deserted for all of time, left to wallow in
its once great glory shall not come to pass as long as everyone sticks
together. On what grandiose stories within these granite stone walls
could tell of battles forged, of kingdoms toppled, or empires won, and
of deeds wrought; And the tales, of both evil and good shall be passed
on to the leader who shall share its lessons upon the inhabitants of
the domain. Now, as bard elder, I step down and present this symbol to
the new leader: Muroke Koji! Eh? Where is he?

(starts waving the mock scepter in panic)

Muroke: What? You're looking for me?

Shun: Yep. We want to make you the new head RA.

Muroke: But I don't want the job!

Hasukawa: Ahh! Are you serious?

Muroke: I'm sorry, but I'm not sure if I'm returning here to study
next semester in Tokyo.

Hasukawa: Ohh...is that so.

Muroke: Why don't you let Shun-san be the new head RA? He deserves it.

Hasukawa: Both me and Shun are leaving because we're graduating
seniors in college. I'm to take an internship this summer and beyond,
while Shun is pursuing the performing arts.

Shun: How about you Taku-san?

Taku Muroke: You have to count me out. I'm staying next semester in
Rikkako's apartment.

Hasukawa: How about you Zumi-san?

Shijama Zumi: Don't put it in my hands! I had enough role-playing in
one year.

Hasukawa: Doesn't anyone want to take up the torch?

Muroke: I know who. (points to Tatsuya Youta)

Hasukawa: Him? But he's still in high school.

Mitsuru Ikeda: I think it matters not. You were in high school
yourself when you were placed in charge of this house.


Hasukawa: But that was different.

Mitsuru Ikeda: How so?

Hasukawa: (sighs) You're right. I should really let the young blood
lead the way for the next generation. I'll pass you the scepter
Tatsuya-san, if you accept.

Tatsuya Youta: I'll be honored to. Arrigatou. I hope I can keep up the
tradition of this house.

Shinohara: (mock claps his hands) Nice display. I must go now.

Muroke: Not so fast.

Shinohara: What? I want to leave in peace.

Muroke: And you'll will, but not after we treat you to a big
surprise. Both you and everyone here.

Shun: What are you saying Koji-san?

Muroke: This is an invitation to pop-idol singer's Mitsuru Hayakawa's
wedding ceremony today! I checked with him and everyone's invited!

Shinohara: Weddings? I hate weddings.

Muroke: Trust me. It will be worth your while.

[At Yakushima Island]

(Ryusei narration.)

Everything has gone from bad to worse. Ever since she made her
presence felt, I had nothing but bad luck. And my headaches only
became worse as a result.

I successively resolved the cargo ship inspection fiasco through a few
well-placed bribes. But I returned only to find more
incompetence. Nagasi couldn't explain why the tax revenue people came
to our offices, but soon, they found a discrepancy between my company
and Yamazumi Kensetsu. From there, it snowballed. The tax money
suckers then went after Yamazumi Kensetsu and found even bigger
offenses. And to top it off, Mishima-san dies in a freak homicide
accident and the project is canceled altogether. It was the end of my
dream.

I threw a fit at the apartment. Nagasi begged me to stop. I slammed my
fists across the GO chess board which I had so gazed so intently over
these months. I had lost. Now I was on my way to Yakushima island to
suffer the consequences.

Goro: (clanking his two metallic balls in his hands) Ryusei
Haroken. You have finally arrived.

Ryusei: I know you have been awaiting me. I concede defeat. My agent
failed the Orange Road project.

Goro: Yes, I was sorry to see that someone died as a result of an
unfortunate accident.

Ryusei: No need to beat around the bush. I didn't come here to chat.
What do you want? What is the price of failure? Or do you want the
ultimate?

(reaches in his pocket)

Goro: You misunderstand. I do not want your life. It'll be no use to
me if you are dead now. Rather there is something else. The cargo
ship. I want it.

Ryusei: I assume you want at least 50% of the profits.

Goro: No, no! I don't want the profits from the "goods" on-board. You
can keep that trifle change to yourself. Rather, I want use of the
ship.

Ryusei: Is that all?

Goro: Of course not. A failure such as yours deserves a great
challenge - one of the greatest in history.

Ryusei: And what, pray tell would this challenge be?

Goro: You will find out once you are there. But I want you to meet me
in New York. Only there will I disclose the details.

Ryusei: When?

Goro: Immediately. Next week. I will contact you once you arrive.

Ryusei: Will that be all?

Goro: Yes. I'm looking forward to when we will meet next in the
Americas.

Ryusei: Then I shall make my departure quick. Good day!

(exits out)

(another figure emerged from the shadows)

"I'm assume I'm coming along."

Goro: Of course you are Yayoi. Your X-per powers will keep the dragon
boy in line. Br ha ha ha ha!!!!

[Double Wedding]

Kazuya; This is so cool!

Kurumi: Only thing I like is the free food! Hey, what are those guys
doing here?

Akane: Oh look! Shun-san's there. I'm going over to talk to him.

Kazuya: Figures!

Manami: The ceremony is about to start!


TK: You're nervous buddy?

Hayakawa: Not in the very least. You just better have the ring!

TK: I do, plus something extra nice.

Hayakawa: And what would that be?

TK: Uh uh uhhh! Not telling. After the ceremony, you'll find out.

(as the ceremony starts)

Shinohara: Is this what your brought me over here for?

Muroke: That's more to this than meets the eye.

Taku Morisaki: I think it's cool. A double wedding.

Muroke: Yeah. What Manami told me was that Hayakawa and Shiori along
with Yukari and Shue are both getting married at the same time!

(The ceremony proceeds beautifully as planned; Madoka, Akane, Manami,
and Kurumi appear as bride-maids, as the huge pipe organ booms in the
hall. Then the two brides appear: Yukari and Shiori as they both
proceed down the aisle without a hitch. After the vows are exchanged
and after the final kisses...)

(A stunning figure appears with long brown hair and white boots,
donned by four ladies all singing)

Shinohara: That's....That's Amuro Namie! She's with her old accompany
band, the Supermonkeys!

Muroke: Surprise!

Shinohara: Oh Sweet Mother of Heaven! I'm in heaven now! Thank you
Koji-san. Koji-san?

(We see Muroke being dragged into the hallway)

Muroke: Why did you have to do that for #1?

#1: Surprise to see me?

Muroke: Very. What do you want?

#1: Doing anything this summer?

Muroke: Uh... not exactly...

#1: Good. Here.

Muroke: What are these?

#1: Tickets for four to New York.

Muroke: Gee thanks!

#1: You shouldn't be thanking me yet. It not gonna be a pleasure trip.

Muroke: What?

#1: I know you were behind the audit check on the Master that screwed
him up. Now he's been put in a bad position.

Muroke: Oh, I'm sorry...

#1: You can have a second chance to make it up to him. We need your
computer hacker expertise.

Muroke: This is so sudden! My okaasan was expecting me back.

#1: Make up a reason. We're counting on you to be there, #2.

Muroke: (breathes a deep breath) I can tell we're going to get into a
lot of trouble.

#1: Then get ready for a wild ride!


[At the police precinct]

Jackson: Something doesn't add up.

Kenny: More sleep lost over that case Jack-san?

Jackson: This construction site homicide involves all my long-shot
suspects in that mysterious Colonel Kijiama incineration death case
folder. Kasuga Kyosuke and Mishima Syuujirou. Only that one of them is
dead and the other almost killed.

Kenny: Don't tell me: conspiracy.

Jackson: It sure as hell is, but I can't prove it. I know the Colonel
is alive somewhere. My gut feeling tells me so. It also tells me that
he is involved in this case as well.

"JACKSON!"

Jackson: Hai chief! What up?

Chief Nogami: Whatever case you're on, it will be transferred.

Jackson: Say what?

Chief Nogami: Effectively immediately, you are assigned to be
transferred to an international cop exchange program.

Jackson: Cop exchange? What the hell is that?

Chief: It is where we exchange police officers from different cities
in the world for about 6 months. A cultural exchange program. Get to
see how the other side operates.

Jackson: Get someone else. I ain't interested.

Chief Nogami: It's ain't a personal decision. It's already been made
for you. You're off to New York City.

Jackson: New York City! Not that hellhole!

Chief Nogami: Be thankful we didn't ship you to Shanghai. Now clean
out your desk for your counterpart: A Miss Kanuka Clancy.

Jackson: Arggh! What did I do to deserve this?


[After the wedding]

Madoka: Kyosuke.

Kyosuke: Madoka.

Madoka: There's something important I want to tell you. I think you
should sit down for this.

Kyosuke: What is it?

Madoka: I think we should postpone our wedding plans indefinitely. at
least after our trip to New York.

Kyosuke: I understand. It would be too sudden after the death of
someone close to you.

Madoka: Yes. Even though he tried to kill you, he still protected me
in the very end. I feel obligated to respect his memory and...

Kyosuke: No need to say anything more. this must be a very trying
period for you. just promise me one thing.

Madoka: What is it?

Kyosuke: Promise that you don't let Hikaru know about any of
this. She's nervous as it is already with her big opportunity on
Broadway.

Madoka: Yes. I understand. I'll put on a brave face for her.

[Final Farewells...]

(At the Kasugas)

Kurumi: What are going to do? You're not actually thinking of going?

Manami: Why not?

Kurumi: Forget that trip! Everybody's going to New York. Ojiisan and
Obaasan, Oniichan and Madoka, and even Master! Come with us?

Manami: Who will watch Jingoro?

Kurumi: Kazuya will. Akane isn't going anywhere either so and him can
take turns.

Manami: This is so hard to decide - I really want to watch Hikaru-san
fulfill her dream, but I have this dream of my own.

Kurumi: Ahh, no use in talking with you.

Manami: <I want to go for it! Just like you, I will do everything for
my dream!>


[In Kobe, Japan]

(Hasukawa narration)

After the wild finish at Greenwood, I had moved over here to start my
medical internship. I decided to apply for the hospital of Kobe, given
it was where the major earthquake occurred. All my life, I wanted to
help other people, and now here was my chance.

As I walked into the newly built structure, my bag in my hand, and me
wearing the traditional white medical garb, I took in all the
features. I wasn't really paying attention to where I was going so I
....

(*BUMP!*)

Hasukawa: Excuse me nurse, I'm sorry. Let me help you with that.

(as he helps her pick up the medical supplies, she jumps back)

Hasukawa; What's the matter? (eyebrows raise up as he sees who it is)
Igarashi?

Igarashi: Hasukawa? How come you're here?

Hasukawa: I'm here on internship from Tokyo? And you?

Igarashi: I'm a nurse intern here as well.

Hasukawa: You want to be a nurse? I didn't know that?

Igarashi: Yes. Shortly after my family moved to Kobe, the quake
hit. Luckily we escaped. But I saw all those injured people at the
shelters...it reminded me of you. I know how you have all these
medical conditions, so I decided to work at becoming a nurse. It
helped eased the pain of being away from you.

Hasukawa: (hugs her) I knew you didn't leave me willingly. It must be
fate that brought us together. <Thank you, kami-san!>


[In New York City inside the Shubert Studios]

"I can hardly believe it's only a week left before the play opens."

Hikaru: Yes, time really flies by.

"You nervous?"

Hikaru: I will when the time comes. Just got to fight those
butterflies in your stomach and dance through it.

Director: That's a wrap people.

"Good luck! And don't break a leg Star-chan!"

Hikaru: (smiles) I won't. Good luck to you as well. <I won't let you
down Sempai and Madoka-san!>

[At Narita airport]

#1: Your bags have been checked in.

Ryusei: Okay. Let's go.

#1: I can't come with you this leg. I need to finish something
up. I'll take a later flight.

Nagasi: Hello Ryusei-baby! I'm hereeee!

#1: Here are some things to take your mind off things.

Ryusei: A book? And this little buddha statue? What for?

#1: Things haven't been going your way, so I figure you needed some
luck your way.

Ryusei: The way things are going for me, I'll try anything - even
religion. (throws up the Buddha statue and catches it in the air)

(We see the glint of of the laughing buddha statue!)

[End of Book D]


Author's Note: Hi everyone! Thanks for finishing up another book of my
HARD|<or fanfiction series. As I've indicated, this will be the last
of my books, but that doesn't mean there's no more fanfiction on tap!
There will be. But instead, it will be in a different type of
format. You'll see when it comes out.