[KOR][FanFic] HARD|<oR Book V Act II: Unveiling

[Robert Kwong]

Hi All,

This is Kimagure Orange Road fanfiction.
This is Book V: Final Acts of my HARD|<or fanfiction series.
This is Act II: Unveiling.

This is the final book of my HARD|<oR series. The format here will be
different from the rest of my books. Prelude & Books A-D can be
thought of as the "TV" episodes style. The Acts contained in the Book
V series can be considered the "Movie" or "OAV" edition of my
fanfiction series. As such, they do not follow a chapter system.

Here are some disclaimers for this story. This particular story is
rated 'R' for sexual innuendo and swearing of 4 letter words.
If you don't like that or a minor under 18, then please
don't read this. You have been forewarned!

Now, here's the story...

Enjoy!
------------------------------------------------------------------


H A R D |< O R
B O O K
M O - V - I E
by
Robert Kwong
Completed July 31, 2000

"Things are not as they appear."
Y

Act II: Unveiling


"...MONDAY MADNESS SALE...Going on today! 50% off all items in the
store! DON'T MISS IT!..."

Kyosuke: Argh: Where's the snooze button? (taps at the clock radio at
the counter) Madoka? Are you awake? Madoka?

(looks around the bed, but doesn't see her around)

(sees a note on the dresser)

Kasuga-kun,

Went out by myself. Will be back in a while.

Madoka

Kyosuke: Oh, she's probably getting some fresh air.


Madoka walking along the streets of Broadway amidst the various
banners advertising plays such as Miss Saigon to Sound of Music.

Madoka: I was 25 going on 26, what am I going to do?

It felt funny, being the oldest of the group. And in three days will
come yet another birthday. My last birthday to be my independent
self. My last one before I become a mother. As I looked back in
reflection, I wonder what I did with my life? It's a question all
people inevitable ask themselves at one point of their lives and I was
asking myself now. I was trying to fight the feeling that I had wasted
my opportunities. Kyosuke had the audacity to go to Bosnia and Hikaru
was bold enough to migrate all the way to New York. It was the journey
they needed to take in order to pursue their dreams. But I always
wondered what was my dream? Yes, I've always loved music from the very
beginning and I enjoyed teaching at the Conservatory. But was that my
dream? No, somewhere, my heart told me otherwise. But if not that,
then what? What was my dream?


[JFK Airport]

Taku Morisaki: Thank you Muroke for letting us tag along on this trip
with you.

Rikkako Muto: Yes. It was been a very enjoyable week.

Shijama: Sure has. You're lucky you get to stay longer.

Muroke: It's not all fun, y'know. Gotta finish up some things first.

#1: (walks over) Are you done?

Muroke: Just about. Well this is it. I'll see you all at Tou-dai next
semester. Have a safe flight back!

"Ja!"

(Muroke sees them enter and board the plane)

#1: Let's go now.

Muroke: But I haven't seen them take off yet.

#1: Kaori is waiting for us at the rendezvous point.

Muroke: (sarcastic) Fine. Let's do this.


[In an apartment]

We see Nagasi, sitting up in bed, half-naked, slowly puffing away on a
cigarette.

(We see a man exiting from the bathroom, all dressed up)

Nagasi: (broken english) So soon leave, Bruno baby?

"Oh yeah baby! Got work. So was I good?

Nagasi: Uh huh. You a 'baaad' man...very b-i-i-i-g.

Bruno: I love you japanese girls. So sensual. (puts on his jacket) I
go now. Ciao! (exists out)

Nagasi: (evil smile) You bet we are. Especially when we have it on
tape.


[At the police precinct]

Clancy: You have returned.

Jackson: You bet! And my back is killing me!

Clancy: Don't tell me a little manual work has got you huffing and
puffing.

Jackson: Nope. I'm more worried about blowing my cover.

Clancy: So what did you find?

Jackson: Just as you suspected. (plucks out a bag of red dust) Here,
sniff it.

Clancy: Pure grade heroin. Angel dust.

Jackson: Devil dust is more like it. Except this red stuff is 5 times
more potent that the white stuff.

Clancy: How many crates?

Jackson: 155 at last count. Plenty enough for me. So when do we bust
'em?

Clancy: That will be a later time. More urgent matters require
attention.

Jackson: What are you talking about? We must make the first strike!

Clancy: That is just the consolation prize. The heart of the crime
ring is what I'm after.


Jackson: Big talk from a little lady like you. But can you back it up?
Bringing down the Triads in one fell swoop ain't going to be a piece
of cake. I sure as hell would like to know how you're going to do it.

Clancy: With your assistance in the matter, I believe we can
infiltrate their corps. You're a man of many talents. We will be
testing them when you pose as one of the buyers.

Jackson: They're not going to be tricked by undercover cops. An
unknown emerging from out of nowhere. It'll be too suspicious.

Clancy: Which is exactly why you won't be going under your current
appearance.

Jackson: What is that suppose to mean?

Clancy: You will be assuming the identity of another. Then we see how
good you really are. Here. (tosses him a file folder) Contained within
are the bio of the person you will be impersonating. This passkey will
allow you access to checkout the surveillance tapes of the subject
from the archives. Study him carefully. You need to master his style
and manner of speech in order to pull this off. You needn't worry
about him showing up; he's already locked away.

Jackson: There's a detail you might be forgetting. I don't look like
this ugly bastard. (points to mug-shot)

Clancy: We will take care of that when the time comes.

[At Canal Street]

(We see Hikaru slowly walking.)

I had just finish the last warmup morning rehearsal. Later that
afternoon would be the premiere of "Atlantean", the epic, tragic tale
of innocence lost for a girl, her people, and a continent. And I would
be the first figure they will see on stage, as I perform the
introductory solo dance. And although they would not see my face as a
result of my wearing a mask, I had to connote to the audience the
spirit and light that my character possessed.

But I tried not to think about it. For if I did, I only placed even
more pressure on myself. I was already nervous enough as it is. But
one thing I looked forward to was the support of my friends. Master,
ojiichan, obaachan, and Kurumi. But especially Kyosuke and
Madoka. This was important to me since they couldn't make it to my
first play back in high school. But back then, I had the support of
him and that was enough for me. And now today would be my chance to
fulfill my promise to him.

(Hikaru enters a small temple. Inside, in the center, was a big bronze
buddha statue)

(We also see an old man wearing the traditional black Chinese garb)

Old Man: Oh you, you, you. You pretty face. You are.....

Hikaru: Yes. I am-...

Old Man: I know you, I know you. Yes, I know now. Miss Hikaru. You
back again. Hello.

Hikaru: Hello Mr Chan. Do you happen to have any incense?

Old Man: Oh sure. I do, I do. I go get it, ok? You stay here.

(Hikaru shivers a bit)

I went in despite my phobia of temples.I have been doing this year
after year, like clockwork. Why, you might ask? To honor his
memory. For you see, today was the anniversary of my good friend's
untimely death.

Old Man: I have it, I have it here. (passes her the incense)

Hikaru: Thank you very much. How much do I owe you?

Old Man. Oh, no charge, no charge for you. You nice girl. Pretty face
makes old man happy.

Hikaru: You're so nice. Thank you again. (flashes a smile)

(old man beams a goofy smile and walks back to his chair)

(Hikaru proceeds to light the incense, standing in front of the Buddha
statue and bowing three times. She inserts the incense in the urn up
front and then clasps her hands together, closing her eyes as if in
prayer)

H: <So Yuu-kun. It hard to believe that it's been 5 years since your
passing. I hope no one is bullying you up there. That's for me to
do. Anyway, I just wanted to tell you that today is the big day for
me. I stuck to my dream and now it looks like it is paying off. I
didn't quit and give up on myself just like you didn't quit on
yourself. I kept faith in myself. So there. I'm finally going to do
it. But I still need your support once more. May your lucky bandanna
pull me through my opening day jitters.>

(Hikaru clutches tightly the orange-red bandanna in her hands!)

[At location X in region Y]

(Dark and cloudy)

Muroke: Hey, where the hell are we?

#1: In an area where we're not suppose to be.

Muroke: Very funny. But this place gives me the creeps. Seems like we
stepped right into Transylvania or something.

"'bout time you bozos came!"

#1: Must be Kaori.

(*Rough, Rough*)

Muroke: Taki is here also?

#1: Yep. Both of us are battle-tested veterans.

Muroke: I bet. But where's the Master?

"Right here."

(Ryusei appears before him, decked in all black, and of course wearing
his trademark sunglasses.)

Muroke: Woah! I didn't see you! How did you do that?

Ryusei: When one is one with the darkness. Only when you adapt to the
environment can you escape detection.

Muroke: You mean like a chameleon? Blending in with the environment.

#1: Yep. But enough jibber-jabber. Let's get on with it.

Muroke: But where's the building? This is just a swamp area!

#1: It's there...underneath us somewhere. That's where Taki comes
in. C'mon boy. Sniff it out.

Muroke: How is he suppose to smell it out?

#1: No matter how much you try, every person leaves a scent trail,
including the guards of this facility. No matter how faint, Taki's
acute sense of smell can pick it up. That would be the way to find the
entry point.

Kaori: You go in the van and get started on hooking yourself into the
system. We wouldn't want to be caught with our pants down.

Muroke: Ryoukai! Operation Strangelove in motion.

[At the Hilton hotel]

(a peculiar knock sequence at the door.)

(Nagasi opens it without looking.)

(a man wearing a black suit and sunglasses enters in)

Nagasi: So, my underling. You're finally back. Do you do it?

Man E: Yes maam. I left the package right outside her door like you
instructed.

Nagasi: Good! Now my plan is in motion.

Man E: Ummm maaam?

Nagasi: What now!? You done your job. What more do you want?

Man E: Ano...I been stationed here by you since the beginning of the
year. It's been five months now and...

Nagasi: And what? Haven't you been paid?

Man E: Yes I have but would it be kind of you to let me go back to
Japan and switch with the other guys? Following this Hiyama girl has
been very troublesome.

Nagasi: Hmm...you have done good work for me by tracking down her
steady. You may go back. But the plane ticket comes out of your pay!

Man E: But I...

Nagasi: Do you have a problem with that? (gives him the evil stare
down)

Man E: Oh no, no, no. I pay, I pay. Goodbye! (bows) (exits out
quickly)

(*Scary!*)

Nagasi: Hikaru Hiyama! Now I've got you!

[At the United Nations Center]

Kurumi: Gawd onii-chan! I never realize that you take good pictures!

Kyosuke: What do you think I've been doing here the past week
exhibiting my photographs of the conflict?

Kurumi: I wasn't paying attention before.

(Kyosuke does a pratfall)

Ojiichan: Don't blame her Kyosuke. Young people nowadays have short
attention spans. (eyes start to leer when a pretty lady wearing a
mini-skirt with nice long legs starts to walk by)

Kyosuke: Yep. Applies to old people too.

Kurumi: Hey, what happened to that picture? (points to empty slot)

Kyosuke: I sold it to someone already.

Kurumi: Sold it? You should replace it.

Kyosuke: That's not a bad idea. But today's the last day of my
exhibit. So it wouldn't make much sense now.

Kurumi: I want to know what it is! Otherwise, it will be bugging me
all the way back.

Kyosuke: Ok, ok! I'll reprint a copy for you just for your curiosity.
<Ah Madoka; you're lucky you don't have to be pestered by your family
and relatives!>

[Back to Area 55]

(Taki sniffs about and stops at the river bed)

Muroke: Looks like a dead end.

#1: No. He found the entranceway.

Muroke: No way! That would be that it is...

#1: Underwater.

Kaori: Another underground installation. How typical.

Muroke: What do you mean?

Kaori: Don't you know? Most secret government installations are
underground to protect against the threat of airborne attacks such as
a nuclear strike.

Muroke: Oh, I see. But how are you two going to get down there?

Kaori: We bought our own wet-suits just in case.

Muroke: Boy, you guys think of everything.

Kaori: 'Course. We're professionals.

#1: Enough chatter. #2, disable the silent proximity alarms below.

Muroke: You're certainly challenging me. Lucky for you, I am versed in
all forms of surveillance evasion in all environmental conditions,
including water.

Kaori: Will ya just get it over with? I've already placed the signal
generating equipment into the water.


Muroke: Alright. I hear you. Sending out jamming signals to disable
their sensor sweeps. (taps at the keyboard...)There. That will
confuse their sensors for awhile. They couldn't tell if a minnow or
whale swam in or not.

Ryusei: Masking humans will suffice. Are you ready #1?

#1: After you boss.

(They both jump into the water)

Muroke: They're going to have a tough time.

Kaori: Why?

Muroke: Even though I can communicate with them through the radio
transmitter, they can't respond back because they're breathing through
their oxygen tanks.

Kaori: Screw that. I'm more worried that their air will run
out. They only have a 50 minute supply.

Muroke: Now we get to see if they're professionals or not.

[Hikaru's apartment]

Hikaru walks towards her door where she sees a brown paper package.

She picks up the note attached.

To Hikaru Hiyama:

A treat for the beautiful dancer.

Open before dance.

H: Gee, a surprise gift. I wonder who could it be from.

(as she enters her apartment, she unwraps the packaging. Inside, she
sees a 8mm camcorder)

H: Wow, such an expensive gift! I wonder who gave this to me.

(She searches inside the box but find no other note.)

(She sees a post-it note attached to a button saying "Press me to
play")


H: Perhaps who sent this recorded a message for me.

Hikaru presses the button and sees video pop up on the built-in lcd
screen.

Hikaru looks at the footage in horror!

(She sees 2 naked people actively humping each other, with the shrieks
and grunts. As sees looks at the side profile of the man, she
realizes...)

H: Bruno, it can't be you!

(The sex video is then interrupted by a woman, under the bed covers,
speaking directly into the camera)


"Hello Miss Hiyama. Remember me? I hope you enjoyed my little
gift to you. I did, enjoying the company of your boyfriend,
and then some. You might have seen us on the dance floor at
'Mood Paradise'. He's such a mover and shaker. In terms of
sexual ability, I would rate him just a 6. But what he lacks
in technique, he makes up in size and force. Oh, by the way,
good luck on your play today. From your pal Nagasi. To da
loo! Oh, I almost forgot. Here's bonus coverage for your
viewing pleasure. Br-ha-ha-ha!

(the rest of the video resumes)

Hikaru presses the 'Stop' button.


[At the secret installation]

Kaori: What's their status?

Muroke: The homing signal indicates that they are 50 meters below the
surface and are at the target area. The waste water drainage turbine
has been activated and open, according to schedule. They have 15
seconds before the waste water drainage turbine closes.

Kaori: Roger that. #1. Insert the mobile probe now and move away from
your position. You have 10 seconds now. Counting down now...9, 8, 7,
6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 Mark!

Muroke: Mobile probe agent away. I have a read on its
position. Following the current path back to the internal sewer waste
systems.

(We see a 5 inch diameter by 7 inch long cylindrical piece of metal
with a camera eye on the front while in the rear, it is being driven
by propulsion propellers in the back. It then abruptly stops and a
transparent balloon-like bag starts to expand from the front and
eventually touches all the sides of the pipe. We hear suction noises
as the internal pump starts to spew the water onto the other side of
the transparent barrier which is blocking the flow of water. Soon, a
mini vacuum is formed. The cylindrical silver block then detaches
itself from the transparent barrier. )

Kaori: How long before you get the security hatch open?

Muroke: I've already redirected the probe through the resistance of
all that waste and positioned it into the proper location under that
control access panel. Afterwards, I have to drill down through the 2
feet of titanium with the on-board laser. Oh shit!

Kaori: What?

Muroke: I just realized that because it is operating underwater, the
atmospheres pressure is much greater. The barrier will dissolve faster
and give out before we can finish the laser cutting.


Kaori: What time will that happen?

Muroke: We were counting on the barrier dissolving in 15 minutes, but
now I say it will only hold for 5 to 6 minutes max. We need 10 minutes
to finish the laser cut. We have to abort the mission! The
surveillance systems will be back online in approximately 15 minutes!

Kaori: No way that's going to happen! They gotta get whatever's there
before Goro's arrival or Ryusei's toast. They won't open the sewer
hatch for another week. We going to have to use the 'X Factor'.

Muroke: The what?

Kaori: A special compound we sneaked onto the probe. Highly
experimental. It will eat through the titanium in half the time. It
comes in two parts and is located in compartment #4 & #5.

Muroke: You should have told me beforehand about this!

Kaori: I was hoping we didn't have to use it. It's highly volatile. If
we don't handle it correctly, you'll get a big boom.

Muroke: Well, how do you use it correctly then?

Kaori: (looking on the video screen) The first part of the compound is
contained in a vial. Pour the contents in panel #4 onto the grooves
you've already made around the circular laser cut. Make sure you pour
it evenly.

Muroke: Ryoukai!

(We see 2 robot arms appear from the side as it slowly grabs hold of
the vial. Using the other arm, it uncork the the container. Then the
robot arm slowly turns around and starts to sprinkle the powder in)

Kaori: Why is it so slow?

Muroke: Don't you know really fine robotic control is hard to do? The
control and feedback systems alone would kill you in the
design. That's why I was hoping I didn't have to use the arms to
handle such a delicate thing. If I don't go slow, I'm liable to break
the whole thing!

Kaori: Fine. But you better now screw up!

Muroke: Easy for you to say! Some more here and there....and yes. All
done.

Kaori: Yokata.

Muroke: Now what?

Kaori: In compartment #5, there is the liquid portion of this deadly
mix. It is also in a glass-like container.

Muroke: (sarcastic) Great! Do you want me to pour it over the powder?

Kaori: No! You need to use the dropper inside the bottle. You must
only use 4 drops and place it on all four corners around the circle
where the powder is now. And exactly 4, no more no less.

Muroke: Why so few drops?

Kaori: You'll see.

(As Muroke as the first drop, we instantly see a cloud of smoke rising
up)

Muroke: Man, I can hardly see!

Kaori: Do it quick before you lose all visibility!

Muroke: I'm doing the best I can. There, the second drop is away. Now
I get even more smoke!

Kaori: Spin the propellers on the back. This will create somewhat of a
wind to try to blow away as much of the smoke.

Muroke: Good idea. Spinning propellers at lowest level. I can make out
the top and the bottom now. Dropping the 3rd drop now. Whoops!

Kaori: What?

Muroke: I starting to loose the grip on the glass container. Somehow
the smoke is making it slippery!

Kaori: Quick! Get in the 4th drop.

Muroke: The propeller fan is not helping anymore. I can't see the
target!

Kaori: Do something! You're the hacker around here!

Muroke: I could grab the coordinates of the prior 3 drops and just
index off it. But I wouldn't be really sure.

Kaori: Just do it! Hurry!

Muroke: Here's a leap of faith then. (Closes eye and sends command to
the probe to squeeze the dropper)

(As the 4th drop slowly drips away from the dropper...)

Muroke: Closing the container and returning it back to the panel.

Kaori: What is happening now?

Muroke: Don't know if it worked or not. Must wait for the smoke to
clear out. But now I'm worried about the barrier. 4 minutes and 25
seconds has passed now. I don't think it will hold any longer.

Kaori: Look!

Muroke: My gawd!

(as the smoke clears, we see a circular shaft created extending all
the way down)

Muroke: I don't believe it! That thing ate through and consumed all
that titanium.

Kaori: No time to be in awe. Go in now!

Muroke: Yes maam. Retracting all exterior limbs and entering the
opening.

(The probe neatly enters the circular opening perfectly, like a glove
to a hand. Just at that moment, the translucent barrier bursts as the
sewage waste water bursts through)

Kaori: Is the water leaking through?

Muroke: No; the back end of the probe has blocked and sealed the
opening created. Now detaching probe from tail section.

Kaori: Yokata. The worst should be behind us. Let's get going on
opening up the docking hatch before they are detected!

[Just outside the Shubert Theater]

(We see Hikaru rush in, looking very distraught. Across the street, we
see the outline of Nagasi, wearing a black hat and black dress, taking
it all in)

Revenge will be mine today! I was intent on destroying her by the
worst way possible. She was my mortal enemy. From the first day she
came on board for Ryusei's play to the day she ruined my friend
Anita's life, I vow to make her suffer. She would not ruin my
best-laid plans no more. Humiliating her on-stage at her premiere
opening would be the ultimate revenge. To shatter her dream and
destroy it before it has a chance. Oh the humiliation! That would be
so sweet! I had been planning this for months now. Just about now, she
should be shaking in her dressing room now...

[Shubert Theater]

Director: Stagehands, prepare the props in the proper order! Toot
sweet, on the time people! We need to get in tip-top order! We have a
play to open tonight! 25 minutes before opening!

Natalie: Star-chan! There you are! We were getting worried about you.

Hikaru: Sorry I was late.

"It's high time you came!"

Natalie: Allen! You shouldn't be mean like that!

"I can be whatever I want! I, as the great Atlas is the star of the
play! That is why the play is named after my character. At-lan-te-an!
Nobody, and I mean nobody and especially not some Sofina#1 is going to
stand in the way of ruining my play!"

Natalie: She has a name, y'know!

"It doesn't matter to me! As long as she doesn't trips and falls,
that's all I care! Thank god she doesn't speak or god forbid! At least
'Era' knows to stay out of my way!

Natalie: Norma's the quiet type. That's 'cause she keeps to
herself. She's a lot more classier than you are!

"Humph! Young people! How freely they speak their mind."

(Allen storms back into his dressing room)

Natalie: Screw him! That jerk can't treat people like that!

Hikaru: Don't worry; I can take it.

He was right in one aspect. I felt like a nobody. Allen James, world
renown Shakespearian stage actor was the headliner for the play. He
was cold, haughty and vain, but good. That is why he landed the part
of Atlas, the king of whose heart is captured by the island princess
Sofina. Rarely did he participate in the rehearsals or showed up at
all during these past months. That is why I haven't spoken of him
until now. I often had to dance with a stick figure substituting for
him. But at the final rehearsal, he went through his scenes with
sparkling fashion, as if he had done this a hundred times. He was a
pure professional. And for that and only that I respected him. There
was no disputing he was good. I only wondered if that is what it takes
to be the very best. Can one be a nice person and still attain the
heights of greatness?

But another thing grinded on my mind. I was distraught over what I saw
on that tape. It felt that all the men around me treated me like
nothing. Bruno, how could you do this to me? I thought you would be
my one and only, after my miserable failures with Sempai and
Sugizawa. But in the end, I was just another woman to you. I guess it
was both of our faults. I wasn't serious in the beginning of our
acquaintance, with us using each other for sex. There was no
guidelines that we couldn't see other people. But after the Christmas
incident, he was a big support line for me. I thought we grew closer
and had a silent mutual understanding to just see each other
exclusively. He must have been tricked by Nagasi! But even if he had,
he should have been a big enough man to say no. But I guess not. Now
it seems that once everyone leaves, I will be just by myself in this
lonely city.

[Back to the action]

Kaori: You guys make it in yet?

#1: Yep. We're crawling our way through the emergency hatches.

Ryusei: Good job #2.

Muroke: Thanks! It was lucky you guys obtained the location of that
isolated emergency computer terminal. Otherwise, there would be no way
to connect to that system.

#1: Better count your lucky stars. It's a long way before we get
through with this.

Muroke: I'm just glad it was a computer system we needed to bypass.

Kaori: Computers aren't all they are cracked up to be. Computers are a
curse when coupled in the capable hands of the corrupted.

Muroke: Yeah. Like mine! (smiles)

Kaori: Very funny, little boy. Just be on the lookout for any
surprises.

[Outside the theater]

Kurumi: We're on our way to the pl-A-Ay!

Master: Here's a poster here advertising the play -- Atlantean: The
Legend of Atlantis.

Ojiichan: Hikaru-chan will look SO-O-O sexy in her outfit!

Kyosuke: Ojiichan!

Kurumi: I wish we could go see Hikaru backstage first!

Kyosuke: I do too. But I believe it's bad luck. Like the groom seeing
the bride before the wedding.

Kurumi: Party-pooper!

Madoka: We could do the next best thing and wish Hikaru good luck on
her debut.

Obaachan: Hai, hai!

Kyosuke: Then let's do a cheer for her. On a count of three, ONE, TWO,
THREE!

(All together) GANBATTE HIKARU!!!

(inside the theater)

(Allen James storms out of his dressing room)

"There is some crazy mob out there that is disturbing my preparation!
I must have my quiet time!"

Natalie: I hear it too. Sounds like it's for you Star-chan! Do you
hear it?

Hikaru: I do. My friends...they've arrived. <Thank you for the
encouragement. I really need it.>

Director: People, people. Get into places. 15 minutes before opening.

[Operation Strangelove]

Kaori: 35 minutes has elapsed.

Muroke: Now we get to see if the information we got was worth the
price we paid for.

Kaori: What are you muttering about?

Muroke: Just reciting some line from a movie.

(inside the site, right at the end of the emergency tube tunnel)

#1: This is the end of the line for me. Once you enter the inner
sanctum, you're on your own.

Ryusei: I understand the risks.

#1: I'll still be able to track your location 200 meters from
here. But you need to obtain the item, whatever it is within 15
minutes, before the real Riley Thompson comes onto his shift. Good
Luck!

Ryusei: Luck is for fools. I'm set.

[Shubert Theater]

(The people are filling in)

Kurumi: What's this for? (holds up a booklet)

Master: That's the playbill. It contains information about the play.

Kurumi: Honto? What a strange picture on the front.

Master: It is certainly interesting looking. A water god wielding a
trident overlooking the giant sea serpent lurching forward to the
chained sacrifice.

Kurumi: That must be Hikaru! That I should see Hikaru-chan's name
inside.

Madoka: There it is. Under the character "Princess Sofina".

Kurumi: I see it too. But there's another person there too. What's up
with that?

Madoka: I believe Hikaru mention that she is sharing the part with
another lady who will be performing the speaking portion of the
character near the end.

Kyosuke: Hi everyone! Got the refreshments for everyone!

Kurumi: Good! Gimme my corn-dog, chili-dog, hotdog and popcorn!

Kyosuke: Geez! Save some for everyone else! Here Master. Your Cracker
Jack.

Master: Duomo.

Kyosuke: Ojiichan! What are you still standing around for? You should
get in your seat now! What are you looking at?

Ojiichan: Ohhhh, some dandy candy!

Kyosuke: Don't be making a scene here! I want you on your best
behavior for Hikaru.

Ojiichan: Oh, but she's the same lady at your exhibit.

Kyosuke: You're right...I wonder what she's doing here.

(Kyosuke continues to stare at the buyer of his picture and sees
another lady join her. )

Kyosuke: (muttering) Nagasi! She's here also. Which means that jerk
Ryusei is not far behind.

Madoka: What's the matter Kyosuke?

Kyosuke: Oh nothing. They're dimming the lights now. The show's about
to start! <in more ways that one>

[Secret Area]

Kaori: Relay your current status.

#1: Master has already transformed and has penetrated the
premises. The signal shows he has made his way past the public areas
and is on his way to the security zones.

Muroke: Now we get to see if that modified passkey I hacked works or
not.

Ryusei enters the access terminal where he inserts the security card.

"Card confirmed. Place hand on panel for scan."

Ryusei takes off his gloves and places it onto the hand imprint as we
see a green light scanning through his hand.

"Match of 99.9%. Hand Print confirmed. Standby for retina scan."

Ryusei calmly looks into the eyepiece as it uses a blue light scan for
the scan.

Identity confirmed. Confirmation complete. Good day to you Mr Riley
Thompson.

(outside) Muroke: Yippee! It works!

Kaori: How would you know? We can't see what's going on.

Muroke: I received notification around this time by my agent.

Kaori: What agent?

Muroke: I piggy-backed a little virus program inside the access
card. It made it's way through the network trying to find a way
out. I'm now into the central computer. Now I have a beat on Master's
location.

(points to flashing, moving red dot)

Kaori: He better move fast; he has less than ten minutes to complete
this.

[The Play]

Hikaru is standing at her position, behind the curtain, visibly
shaking.

Allen: Oh Dickens! She's going to screw it up before we even start!

Natalie: Don't scare her like that! You can do it Star-chan! Don't
listen to him.

Allen: Oh pash. (waves his hand in disgust)

I couldn't hear what was spoken to me at that moment, as all the
voices seemed to be garbled and incoherent. My head was in a blur. A
million thoughts raced through my mind that moment. Most of it not
good. As the curtain slowly was raised up, I saw my past failures
flash before me. What can I do,...what can I do...what can I do to
fight this sinking feeling? I can't let my people down. Not Madoka,
not Sempai, not Kurumi or Manami or Ojiichan and Obaachan and Master
and everyone else who believed in me. But I felt so cold and alone
being that lone solitary figure to start out the play. A stranger in
the darkness of the unknown. Who can help me now?

(in the audience)

Nagasi: Say Yags, nice of you to be able to accompany me. Ryusei's
such a rouge ditching me like that.

Yayoi: My pleasure. This play been the talk of the town like for ages.

Nagasi: It's fitting you are here, for we have a common enemy, which
will be unveiled tonight.

Yayoi: Sounds delicious. Who is this unfortunate individual?

Nagasi: You'll see. I have a nasty surprise in store for her!


[Inner sanctum]

(Ryusei is walking through a narrow corridor)

Kaori: What's the update?

Muroke: He in the main passageway leading to the protected
regions. Problem is that the only way out. If he triggers any alarm,
all the security doors will close in on him.

Kaori: Hey, isn't all the alarms disabled?

Muroke: No; I just got access to the internal systems. But there's no
way I can crack it in under 10 minutes!

#1: No need to.

Muroke & Kaori: What?

#1: There's a reason why we chose this particular person to
impersonate.

(Ryusei approaches what appears to be a command post.)

(Inside is a security officer).

"Hey Red! How's it going?"

*Riley Thompson: Oh fine. You?

"Just the usual. You're here early today."

*Riley Thompson: Yep. Gives you more break time.

"(laughs) Oh yeah. A double-cappuchino would just hit the spot right
now. I'll leave the controls over to you now."

*Riley Thompson: Sure thing.

"Catch you later, man."

(Security officer starts to walk down the passageway in the opposite
direction.)

[Curtains up!]

There, Hikaru is standing there, wearing her eye mask, in her stance,
noticeably shaking.

(The orchestra starts to strike up the chord, but Hikaru is still
standing there)

Madoka: Kyosuke. Something wrong. I sense it.

Kyosuke: Hikaru-chan seems to be frozen in her tracks.

(we start to hear a stirring in the audience as to what is going on)

(at the front)

Nagasi: (evil smile) Now my revenge is complete! There she is,
shivering like a shrew. Not only will her psyche be ruined, but so
will her body! (presses a button as if to activate a signal)

(backstage)

Director: Drop the curtains! Drop the curtains!

Natalie: No you don't! She can do it!

Director: Oh woe is me!

Allen James: I told you so. What you get when you hire amateurs.

[The Operation]

Muroke: Damn!

Kaori: What now?

Muroke: I just realized that Hikaru Hiyama's play is starting right
now!

Kaori: How would you know about such thing?

Muroke: I logged into the Fame BBS and...

#1: Oh shit!

Kaori: Now what?

#1: I'm tracking the real Riley Thompson and he and that security
officer is on a collision course!

Kaori: Is there anyway to warn the Master?

Muroke: I'm on it.

[To the theatre]

(As the curtains is beginning to descend down...)

Master: I suppose this was not meant to be.

"Star-chan! Watch out above!"

(That was Natalie's voice).

(Hikaru looks up and screams!)

A ballast bag is falling to her spot!

[Danger time]

#1: Here they come. As soon as that guy rounds the corner, we will be
discovered.

Muroke: Start praying for luck now!

(As soon as the security guard rounds the corner to go to the
lunchroom, the real Riley Thompson just enters the lavatory)

#1: Whew! What a close call!

Kaori: But that only gives us an extra few minutes. What happens when
he gets out and discovers the Master at the command post?

#1: Let's hope he takes a long leak.

Kaori: No time to be a smart ass here.

Muroke: Got it! I'm able to communicate a message over. Let's hope
Master sees it.

(on the console monitor inside the command center flashes)


"Real guy coming your way. 5 minutes and counting to get out."

(Ryusei sets his stopwatch.)

[Drama at the theater...]

Madoka: Kyosuke! Hikaru's in danger! (points)

Kyosuke: I see it coming too....(flashes with the Power!)

[Inside the secret chamber]

Muroke: I can see that Master has deactivated all the safeguards
surrounding chamber 5. That means I have less than 15 seconds to
prevent it from entering the log process and activating the alarm.

(stamps away at the keyboard)

Kaori: Come on! Hurry!

Muroke: That should do it! There! Flushed in the nick of time.

Kaori: He has less than 3 minutes to enter in the pressure suit and
retrieve that item.

#1: Oh no.

Kaori:What?

#1: Riley is out of the bathroom and is on his way. The Master's a
sitting duck.

[The incident]

(As the ballast bag is making its way towards Hikaru's head...)

(*BANG*)

(Hikaru opens her eyes.)

H: <Am I still alive? Why am I still on the stage?>

She sees the bag right to her side.

[In the inner secret chamber]

(Ryusei is in the pressure suit, walking in what seems to be pitch
darkness. as he makes his way to the center of the room. A dim
tracking light emanates from the suit. But somehow, he makes his way
through in the pressurized vacuum chamber, albeit very slowly)

#1: 90 seconds and counting.

Ryusei stops in his tracks as he is right over the wooden chest. On
the sides of the chest are two cat's heads.

He grasps both heads and simultaneously exerts considerable pressure
on both to the point of breaking it. Finally the heads start to turn
and at the bottom of the chest, the secret compartment pops out.

Ryusei gazes upon it: The mother-lode.

#1: 30 seconds and counting...

Muroke: He's still in the command post center!

#1: Riley is walking down the passageway now!

Kaori: He's not going to make it!

[Back to action theater]

(Hikaru is sitting prone on the floor, trying to compose herself.)

(In the midst of this chaos, the curtain is stopped midway.)

Hikaru looks in her hand and sees the red bandanna, which has become
undone.

H: <You saved me! My guardian angel!>

(Hikaru gently clutches the bandanna before slowly, deliberately
tie-ing it around her forehead as if getting ready for combat.)

Nagasi: Damnit! Baka idiot missed!

Yayoi: We may have more immediate problems.

Nagasi: What do you mean?

Yayoi: An eerie sensation I feel...<where is this power emanating
from...>

[The critical moment...]

#1: Brace yourselves for the alarm for Riley is within viewshot of the
command post.

(As Riley walks up, he sees the uniform backside of the person in the
booth)

Riley: Watcha doin' Jonah? Jonah?

(The man turns around and reveals himself to be...)

Riley: Woah, Jonah. You gave me the shivers just then.

*Jonah Dawson: Sorry Red. I was just packing up. (picks up the duffel
bag) It's all yours.

Riley: Thanks. What's this flashing thing? (reaches to get his reading
glasses)

*Jonah Dawson: Oh...(presses a button). Just performing a diagnostic
on the systems. There. Should be back to normal now.

Riley: Well, buckaroo, your shift is over. Take it easy.

*Dawson: You too. Catch you later man.

(back at the command central...)

Muroke: Looks like the Master's all clear. (looking at the flashing
dot walking away.)

#1: I don't believe it! How did he get past him in plain sight?

[Shubert Theater]

Director: Get her some help! Finish dropping the curtain. It's looking
like we have to cancel the play!

Hikaru: No. I don't need any help. I can get up on my own. And no, do
not cancel the play.

Director: What are you talking about!? You almost got killed by that
faulty ballast bag! Who knows what else is going to happen?

Stagehand: Hey boss! I caught this guy trying to sneak out. I saw him
running out of the 'tower'. I think he might have been the one who
released the bag.

(a short, disgusting man is being restrained by the muscular
stagehand)

"Lemme go, you fucked prick!"

Hikaru: It's you! You're the one who tried to rape me!

"You bitch! I'm going to kill you!"

Director: Take this scourge away and notify the police immediately.

(we hear the guy cursing all the way out on his way to the exit)

Natalie: Are you ok Star-chan?

Hikaru: I'm alright. Just a few scratches.

Director: Woe is me! I have the unenviable task of announcing the
unceremonious close of today's show.

Hikaru: Stop sir! I'm not going to let him or anyone else ruin it! We
must go on with the show!

Director: But with what has happened...

Hikaru: I'm fine. Honest. (brushes herself up and gets up) See.

(The audience starts to applaud)

(The director signals the stage-hands to go on-stage to clear up the
mess, but Hikaru raises her hand up to stop them.)

Director: What are you doing? What about the bag? You're might trip
over it.

Hikaru: I'll dance around it. Just signal the orchestra to start and
raise those curtains!

Director: If you feel that strongly about it...

Hikaru: I do. Pleassse!

Director: (slumps his shoulders and then slowly nods his head) (

(raises his hand to signal the conductor)

(The music resumes, while at the same time, the curtain is being drawn
up)

Hikaru: <Now I know who I am dancing for!>



-=[Day 6]=-


"From Titanic stinker to theatrical triumph.

On the verge of a monumental collapse built on months
of hoopla, ala the infamous Titanic, instead, this
quirky play provided one of the most bizarre openings
ever to debut in this town. Whether planned or
improvised, Atlantean scored a dramatic turnaround,
led by the genuine performance of Princess Sofina,
played by a young, bubbly dancer from abroad.
Speechless and masked until the very end, her very
movements flowed with the essence of the moment. That
tumultuous opening provided a prelude of things to
come, when she was innocently standing there, scared
and shaken, displaying the vulnerabilities of a young
girl in love, but eventually mustering the courage to
face her pending fate with the gods with the
'thunderbolt from the sky', foreshadowing the part she
was to play.

(Madoka smiles as she folds up the theatrical section of the New York
Times)

Madoka: You saved her once again Superman.

Kyosuke: No. Hikaru saved herself. I only lent a helping hand.

Madoka: Don't be modest. Sometimes, the ESPer in you does comes in
handy once in a while.

Kyosuke: Madoka! Don't tease me like that!

Kurumi: Is she sensational or what?

Master: Yep; she sure is.

Ojiichan: Oh, will be so good to surprise her!

Obaachan: Oi, Oi!

Kyosuke: Well, here we are. Hikaru's apartment. (knocks on the door)

(no answer)

(Kyosuke knocks again)

(again, no answer.)

Madoka: It looks like we might have missed Hikaru.

Kurumi: That's a bummer! Where could she be now?

[Early at the Shubert theater]

Allen James: Curses! A pox on her! She stole my thunder! Now they all
talking about her foolish antics and those theatrics!

Natalie: It's like, right back at you! Who told you to be such an ass?

Allen James: You watch your tongue you whippersnapper! And you!
Director! You must be in league with her!

Director: Don't be so crass as to include me in your diatribe! I had
nothing to do with this. Hot damn, this is all so disturbing, yet
exciting. Heavens to betsy! Holy smoke. I still can't believe what
happened last night.

Natalie: None of us will. It was a magical opening debut.

Director: Speaking of which, where is she now?

[Back at the hotel]

Nagasi: Oh Ryusei baby, the play was absolutely terrible! How dreadful
of you not to accompany me to soothe the pain I got from watching such
an atrocious play.

Ryusei: Is that so? All the more reason to miss it.

Nagasi: You are so cruel! Aren't you the least curious what happened?

Ryusei: No. I had a long night. I need my rest now.

Nagasi: Oh, I forgot to tell you. Some guy named "Big Red" is looking
for you.

Ryusei: What? When?

Nagasi: Oh, sometime early yesterday before you ran out on me.

Ryusei: You should have told me earlier!

Nagasi: Just slipped my mind, y'know.

Ryusei: Did he leave a number?

Nagasi: Yeah. on the table. Hey, I thought you were tired!

Ryusei: Some matters take precedent over others. Ja now.


[In the floor below...]

(Muroke is watching TV, when Kaori and #1 come in)

Kaori: What's on?

Muroke: Some cartoon called "Double Dragon". It seems the animation
here doesn't seem as well done as back home.

Kaori: How boring.

Muroke: But last night wasn't. What an exciting escape. Still
catching my breath from last night's operation.

#1: Sheesh. Wasn't your butt on the line.

Muroke: Still, I felt the danger as Master almost faced direct
confrontation.

Kaori: Ok bozos. While you chitchat, we haven't even had the chance to
examine the loot yet.

Muroke: That's right. We were all so exhausted that we practically
fell into bed when we got back. Ok, where is it?

Kaori: The duffel bag right next to Taki.

Muroke: That makes sense. He was guarding the stash the whole time.

(*RUFF!*)

#1: That's a good boy, Taki! (flips him a treat)

Muroke: Master was strange to tell us not to open it until tomorrow
morning.

#1: Today is tomorrow now, so let have a look-see.

(#1 slowly unzips the duffel bag to reveal...)

[Streets of New York]

(Hikaru is riding on her bicycle, wearing her cap)

(Her head fills with the scene of what happened right when the play
ended, with the bowing of the entire cast in the end.)

(*begin flashback*)

Hikaru: (jumps into the air) Yatta! I did it!

Natalie: Congratulations Star-chan! You were a hit out there!

Hikaru: Thanks! You went through the lines real well yourself.

Natalie: I had the easy part. Your great dancing made it a lot easier
on me. Hey, where are you going?

Hikaru: I going to find my friends. They're in the audience right
there! (points to the right side)

Director: Wonderful! Absolutely wonderful! Star-chan, you lived up to
your name today! I was so worried, but you came through.

Hikaru: I'm so happy for everyone here too!

Allen James: Hello? Everyone? What about me? Stop cheering for her! I
am the star! People? People!!!

Hikaru: Hey, where are you guys taking me? I got to meet up with some
people.

Cast Member #1: You're not getting off that easy!

Cast Member #2: Yeah. We're having the cast party now! No way the star
of the show is going to slip out from under our fingers!

Cast Member #3: Yep! Hooray for the Princess!

(The entire cast lift her up and start to carry her off on her
shoulders!)

Hikaru: (shouts to Natalie) Can you tell them that I won't be able to
go out with them tonight? Tell them I'll try to meet 'em early
tomorrow.

Natalie: Sure thing. I'll explain the whole thing to them.

(*end flashback*)

A night which started off on the wrong foot ended with my earning the
"magic slippers" on my feet as I danced the way I was capable
of. Never had I felt so lithe and free and full of spirit. It was so
enchanting and intoxicating. I understood now the rush that famous
people get when they made it to the big time. A feeling of euphoria
and power. Something that once you felt it, you never want to let it
go. And I never wanted to let this magical feeling wear off.

But today, after a hard night of partying at the club "Mood Paradise",
I came back to reality again,...back to my simple plain self. Where I
had to sort out the everyday problems ordinary people face. And mine
was the man who tried to hurt me.

I recounted before how I once was sexually assaulted at a exotic dance
club by the proprietor, Fast Eddie. It turns out he was the very
person who released the ballast bag over my head. I was on my way now
to the police precinct to formally identify him and have charges
pressed against him.

I felt uneasy, not feeling comfortable with confronting him once
more. I still felt the emotional scars of that very night,...of how
vulnerable I still was. And with my latest male casualty being Bruno,
I was beginning to wonder if I could ever trust any man at all.

"Hiyama-san, is that you?"

Hikaru: Officer Clancy!

Clancy: I heard what happened last night. Terrible thing this man
tried to do to you. You must still be in shock.

Hikaru: I am, a little. The officer that called me told me to come
down here to formally press charges.

Clancy: That is the procedure. I volunteered to assist your case while
I'm still here.

Hikaru: I appreciate it. But I'm a little scared.

Clancy: Why?

Hikaru: I never done anything like this before. And I'm afraid what he
might do when he gets bail. All of this seems so unnerving.

Clancy: That's why I'm here. Please let me help you through this
crisis.

Hikaru: Arrigatou. I'm glad you are on the case.

Clancy: I already prepared the necessary papers which you can look
over before you sign. But first, we need to enter the screening room
where we are interrogating him. Are you ready?

Hikaru: (clenches her fists tightly) Yes I am! Let's go!

[Outside of Tiffany's Jewelry Store]

Madoka: It's actually here.

Kyosuke: What is?

Madoka: This store. Like in the movie.

Kyosuke: Oh, you mean that movie.

Madoka: Yes, with Audrey Hepburn playing Heidi Go-lightly.

Kurumi: Heidi who?

Madoka: She's the main character in the movie. She ran away to New
York to escape from her old life in the countryside as Lula May.

Kurumi: But why would she want to do that?

Madoka: She wanted to find herself, and she thought the big,
cosmopolitan city like New York City was the answer.

Kurumi: Sounds a lot like Hikaru-chan!

Madoka: Yes, it does, doesn't it.

Ojiichan: See Kyosuke! I told you not to be cheap and get her
diamonds!

Kyosuke: Ojiichan!

Madoka: It's ok. Diamonds may be a girl's best friend, but this ruby
ring is closer to my heart.

Kurumi: Gawd, I can never wear that stuff.

Master: Why is that?

Kurumi: 'Cause it'll interfere with my wrestling! But then again,
maybe I can think of a new move like a diamond power driver...


Madoka: I wonder why I can't be the same as...

Kyosuke: Be the same as who?

Madoka: Oh it's nothing. Sorry to trouble you all to stop by here.

Ojiichan: So if we are here, we should go in. There should be a lot of
pretty attendants inside. (barges right in!)

Kyosuke: Hey wait! Geez. Might as well then.


[Back at the unveiling...]

Kaori: Shit! What a letdown!

#1: I have to admit, I was expecting something more substantial.

Muroke: This isn't all bad.

Kaori: What do you see? It's just a box.

Muroke: But aren't you wondering, why is it in such pristine
condition? It is so shiny!

Kaori: Whoopiedoo! A shiny metal box. Now we got something!

#1: There is some strange bas relief lettering inscribed on the
box. Certainly not Japanese, nor Chinese in nature.

Muroke: Y'know, it looks like alien lettering, just like on the
X-Files!

Kaori and #1: ALIEN?!?

Muroke: Sure.

Kaori: I think you have been watching too much foreign TV for your own
good.

#1: I think whatever it is, it doesn't matter to us. We have to turn
it over anyway.

Muroke: You're certainly a party pooper. Can't we at least try to open
it?

#1: No. I don't want to know what's in there.

Muroke: It's not like Ghostbusters or anything. I don't think a
Babylonian deity like Gozer is trapped in there.

Kaori: Not only do watch too much foreign TV, you also watch too much
foreign movies!

#1: Still, I do not want to be responsible should it prove to be a
Pandora's box. Put it back where it is and we'll let the boss decide
what to do.

[Back at the police precinct]

(they enter a viewing room)

Clancy: There's the punk right now. Don't worry; he can't see you. Is
he the one?

(through a hidden mirror, we see Fast Eddie jarring with the
interrogators)

Eddie: Y'all burn in hell! I ain't tellin' you nothin'. I want my
lawy'er.

Hikaru: (takes one glance before quickly turning away) Yeah.

Clancy: This guy has a long list of case history. Real name is Ed
Vanoff. Last prior was on account of aggravated assault.

Hikaru: All I know is how long you can keep him in here.

Clancy: Because he has violated parole, and because of his other
priors, I'm working the DA to get the judge to up his bail to
$500,000. I doubt he can round up that kind of money.

Hikaru: Is that all?

Clancy: Yes. You made a positive identification of the suspect.

Hikaru: Good. I wish to leave this place now.

[Atlantic City]

(Ryusei has just departed from a white Lincoln Continental limo and is
roaming inside the casino.)

(Soon, he tracks his prey, at the poker tables.)

"Player 5, what is your hand?"

"Flush."

(puts down 9, 10, J, Q, and K of hearts!)

"Player 5 is the winner again."

(The dealer pushes the colored chips to the already massive pile)

Ryusei: I see you have been at work here.

(Player 5 looks over)

"Haroken-san. I see you made it here after all."

Dealer: Are you in or out?

"Count me out." (turns to Ryusei) "I am done with this table. Let us
talk by the bar."

Dealer: Sir. Your chips?

"Too much trouble to carry that much. Keep it. Consider it a gift to
the casino, on my behalf."

(The other players at the table gasp as his gesture.)

Ryusei: How generous of you Kouta-san.

Kouta: I may be the generous one, but my master is not.

Ryusei: Yes, how true. I know how Master Mao operates.

Kouta: Speaking of operations, I come on his behalf to collect the
debt yet unpaid. Yet you come empty-handed. I am disappointed.

Ryusei: That is what I wish to speak to you. I have something more
valuable than money.

Kouta: More valuable than money? I find that hard to believe.

Ryusei: So I have piqued your curiosity.

Kouta: Let say that I am intrigued. But it doesn't matter what I
think. I have a job to do. That is to collect the money or kill you
personally for failing to do so. But since I am feeling generous
today, I'm leaving this to chance. If you have lady luck on your side,
I will follow you to see. If not then send my regards to the
underworld.

Ryusei: Then what game pray we are playing?

Kouta: A fair game. No sleight of hand. A game of picking the ponies
at the racetrack. Noontime race. If you can pick the exact ordering of
the top 5 horses, then I will see what you have.

Ryusei: You certainly not making this easy for me.

Kouta: Life and death are not an easy game to play. We will see how
life is treating you today.


[Inside of Tiffany's]

Kurumi; Geez, look at all the stuff you can do with diamonds!

Master: There's certainly a lot of beautiful items in here.

Kyosuke: Madoka. Is there anything in here you like?

Madoka: I'm fine.

Ojiichan: Say Kyosuke. That pretty lady is here again.

Kyosuke: Who?

Ojiichan: The one who bought your picture. There she is. She's holding
a nice Tiffany's bag. Looks very expensive. Oh, she's leaving now. Too
bad.

Kyosuke: Strange that I should be seeing her again. What is the
mystery behind her?


[Inside the mind of Nagasi...]

(Nagasi is muttering to herself while looking at a picture.)

(It is a picture of Hikaru!)

Nagasi: Damn you! Damn, damn, damn, damn, damn! You prissy whore has
always gotten the better of me once again. You were lucky to escape my
trap. But I will find a way to get back at you. And when I do, you
will know it. I guarantee it!

(tears the picture in half!)

[#1 and #2 walking alone in the streets]

Muroke: Ok. I've done the work. Now can I go back?

#1: All in due time. Why the rush to go back so soon? Tired of me
already?

Muroke: It's not that, but my parents are worried about me being away
so long. I do call them, but it's not the same.

#1: Alright, mamma's boy! I'll send you back. Once the exchange of the
box has been made, you can book the next flight out.

Muroke: Yahoo! Say, isn't that Hikaru-san?

#1: It vaguely looks like her. Can't really tell because of the hat.

Muroke: It's a baseball cap, not a hat! Hey, let's go flag her down.

#1: No, I don't think that's a good idea...hey wait!

(chases after Muroke)

They reach an intersection where also there running from the other
direction is....


Hikaru: #1 and #2! Sempai! Madoka! Kurumi, Master, and Ojiichan and
Obaasan. What are you doing here?

Kurumi: Ehh? Lone Wolf! You're here also! So is the little pip-squeak.

Muroke: Hey, I'm not so little...

Kyosuke: Wait a moment. Aren't you Haroken's goons?

Hikaru: Sempai! That's not nice of you to address them like
that. They've helped me out more than once.

Kyosuke: Gomen, on Hikaru's behalf. But if they're here, that means
Haroken is not far behind.

#1: He's not here with us. We're on our own.

Madoka: Well, it seems we all are wanting to meet the same person. And
that would be you Hikaru. Why don't we all have lunch together?

Master: That sounds like a splendid idea, Madoka.

Ojiichan: Good idea Madoka-chan!

Kurumi: I second that. I'm starving! Where to?

Hikaru: Oh! Okay...there's this place around the corner. Let's go
there.

[At the Atlantic City Racetracks]

Kouta: You have returned. You made your selections?

Ryusei: I have. I've placed a great deal of thought into this.

Kouta: Indeed. Let us see if you can pluck this one out of your
sleeve.

[At JFK Airport]

A private, black jet lands on a remote, private runway.

A lady, decked out in a black dress, is waiting patiently on the
runway.

Exiting out is one big, portly man.

"My lord Goro. I was awaiting your presence." (bows)

Goro: My lady. No need for formality.

"You come alone?"

Goro: No. The colonel is retrieving the goods.

"What purpose is your visit so far from home?"

Goro: To collect my debts.

[At the horsetrack]

"And they're off! Out of the starting gates, Mad Max has the early
lead followed by Money for Nothing and Big Al. In the second group, we
have Engleberk and Big Al neck in neck. At the quarter mile turn, Mad
Max is still holding onto the lead followed by Big Al. Superman's Cape
is making a move on the outside and is now into the second group. Now
Money for Nothing is making a charge passing Big Al and chasing Mad
Max. And there they come, down the stretch, pass the half-way point,
where Mad Max is holding a slim lead over Money for Nothing. And now
here comes a late, frantic rush by Superman's Cape. Superman's Cape
has passed Engleberk and is now neck in neck with Big Al. Mad Max is
lengthening his lead against Money for Nothing to half a length, but
Superman's Cape is coming on strong. Superman's Cape has passed Big Al
while Engleberk has slipped a notch. And now we are in the home
stretch and Superman's Cape has caught Mad Max and is running stride
for stride. Money for Nothing has fallen back into the second group,
so now it's a race between Mad Max on the inside and Superman's
Cape. Now Mad Max seems to have a slight lead, but wait! Superman's
Cape is mounting its own last moment flurry and here they cross the
finish line. A photo finish. Did Mad Max have enough to hold off
Superman's Cape or did Superman's Cape nick the finish line just in
the nick of time? We'll soon find out the results.


[At the lunch]

(Kurumi is curled up around #1's arms while Hikaru is flanked by
Madoka and Kyosuke on each side.)

Hikaru: A reunion among all my friends here. How exciting!

Kurumi: How lucky we bump into you! We were looking for you at your
apartment.

Hikaru: I'm sorry I wasn't there. I had other business to attend to
this morning.

Madoka: That doesn't matter now since we have tracked you down.
Congratulations on your big opening!

Everyone: (raising their glasses) Omento!

(A cell phone rings)

Madoka: I'm sorry. It's mine. Mosh Moshi? Hai!

Kyosuke: Who is it?

Madoka: It's your sister, Manami. She just called to see how Hikaru
did on opening night. Here Hikaru. (hands her the cellphone)

Muroke: Manami-san is calling? Oww! (turns to #1) Why'd you whack me
on the back of my head for?

#1: You should stop drooling whenever you hear her name.

Kurumi: Yeah! That's my twin you're talking about. (waves her fingers
at Muroke) You better not be having perverted thoughts about her!

Muroke: I'm not, I'm not. Okay?

Hikaru: Here you go Madoka.

Kyosuke: That was fast.

Hikaru: Yeah. I didn't want to run up her long-distance bill. I
thanked her for her blessings for me and she wanted me to tell
everyone here that she is doing well for her first week in
California. She just moved into an "International House" for
foreigners and is adjusting accordingly.


Kyosuke: Well, it's perfect timing on her part, as usual.

Muroke: I only wish I had the chance to see you in the play last
night.

Hikaru: #2. And #1. I wish to make it up to you and repay you for all
your help when I was in Japan. Allow me to procure you tickets to
tonight's showing.

Muroke: Honto? You really do that?

Hikaru: Yes. My compliments.

Muroke: Can Master come too?

#1: Muroke!

Hikaru: I don't see why not. Yes, I'll make sure to reserve 3 tickets
for you three.

Muroke: Arrigatou! Hey, where's my food?

Kurumi: (gulping the last bite) Delicious! You snooze, you lose
pip-squeak!

#1 & #2: <Scary!>

[The results of the race]

Kouta; Let me see your card.

Ryusei: As you wish.

(Ryusei reveals the selections to Kouta, from the 5th place and up)


5th: Big Al 4th Engleberk 3rd Money for Nothing

"And the winner by an ear is Superman's Cap. Mad Max placed second."

Kouta: You may now show who occupies the first 2 shots.

2nd: Max Max 1st: Superman' Cape.

Kouta: You have chosen correctly. Quite remarkable on your part.

Ryusei: Nothing remarkable. I leave nothing to chance. (dumps the
ticket to a garbage can)

Kouta: You're not going to cash in your ticket?

Ryusei: No need. I already have what I wanted. I'm feeling generous
myself today. So let us be on our way.

(inside the garbage can, we get a closer look at the ticket. We see
that Ryusei's top 2 choices were really:

1st: Mad Max 2nd: Superman's Cape.


[The second showing]

Muroke: Wow! This is cool! We finally get to see the play!

#1: Consider it a bonus for the good work you did.

Kaori: Nice of you bozos to let me out here once in a while to have
fun.

Muroke: Of course! We're glad you could come.

Kaori: So that brat has grown up since high school.

Muroke: Yeah. She's totally different person now from back then.

#1: Are we getting a little jealous here?

Kaori: Jealous of what? I'm still the more mature person.

(both #1 and Muroke burst out laughing)

(Kaori smacks both of them on the side of the head)

Muroke: Oww! Didn't have to do that!

Kaori: Serves you right, you scoundrels!

Muroke: Now I wish Master could have come instead!

Kaori: Don't make me smack you again!

#1: It is curious that Ryusei has not returned yet back to his hotel
room. I tried calling his cell phone, but he deactivated it.

Muroke: Too bad. I bet he would have like to see Hikaru in action.

Kaori: Shit! Heads down!

Muroke: What is it?

Kaori: The Shimazaki scumbag is in the house.

#1: Goro is here?

Kaori: Yep. Right smack in the center aisle.

Muroke: Wow. Look at the lady he's with.

#1: That lady...now where have I seen her?

Kaori: Shhh! The play is about to start!


[Ellis Island]

Kyosuke: Here we are Madoka. Just the two of us.

Madoka: Yes. We've finally made it all the way to the top.

Kyosuke: Are you tired?

Madoka: No. I'm still fine.

Kyosuke: Lucky we made it on the last tour. Sugoi! What a view from
lady liberty herself.

Madoka: It is a majestic view of the harbor. Millions upon millions of
immigrants must have passed through her view, seeking the freedom to
pursue their dreams.

Kyosuke: Yep. But we're finally going to fulfill our dreams and live
happily after. (puts his arms around her)

Madoka: Yes. Live happily ever after. I wonder how true that would be?

Kyosuke: Is there something that is worrying you?

Madoka: Oh no. Just thinking to myself and wondering aloud. I'm sure
it will all work out.


[At the warehouse]

Kouta: Is that your ship out there?

Ryusei: The Kamui? It is my associate's shipping liner.

Kouta: So what do you have for me that is richer than money?

Ryusei: Here. Taste.

Kouta: (dabs a bit of the powder on his index finger and gently
applies it to the tip of his tongue. Immediately, he spits it out)
What are you trying to do? Kill me?

Ryusei: On the contrary. I wanted to give a measure of its
potency. But I see that you are not a purveyor of this "delicacy."

Kouta: I rather partake in hard liquor instead of hard drugs. Is that
your collateral? A pile of drugs? I find that hardly worth more than
money.

Ryusei: Ah, but you fail to see the bigger picture. What I bring to
you is much bigger. (grabs a pinch of the powder and flails it into
the air) This is the mother of all human joy and
suffering. Addiction. Who cures the lost dreams of the forsaken souls
here? I do, in this grand city of lost souls. It's power so binding
and absolute that brings each and every person into submission. It's
rippling effect magnified a hundred times over. That which possesses
the power to topple the dynasties and countries. What does money have
on this?

Kouta: Indeed it has a powerful influence. Drug trafficking is very
lucrative but risky proposition, even in my line of work.

Ryusei: (laughs) You need not worry about the particulars. My master
runs the best plantations in southeast Asia, and I am his best
agent. I'll convert this to your precious money soon enough. All will
be ready when the buyer comes around tomorrow.

[At the police precinct]

"Clancy! I'm ready for this."

Clancy: So you've prepped up for this part.

Jackson: You bet. I'm a fast learner.

Clancy: Give me a sample first.

(Jackson walks over in a different manner.)

Jackson: Y'ou're Kanuka C'lancy of the N-Y-P-D force. Pleaze to make
y'our acquaintance. Jack Gideon is what I go by, but you kin call me
'Smashmo'.

Clancy: Very impressive. You are ready. We can proceed to the next
step. Follow me to the lab.

Jackson: Wait a moment.

Clancy: See something?

Jackson: Did for a moment. Profile of a woman I've seen before passing
back at the end of this corridor.


[Intermission]

Muroke: Looks like Shimazaki is leaving now. I guess he's not going to
stay for the whole play.

#1: I'm going too.

Muroke: But you're going miss Hiyama's dance in the end.

#1: Send my regrets to her on my behalf. But business is business. I
have to see what Goro is up to. You keep an eye on the lady. She looks
like she's staying.

Kaori: We will.

[The lab]

Jackson: What's this stuff?

Clancy: That happens to be the latest in synthetic skin
technology. Upon applying pressure, it forms a natural chemical
bond. The longer you wear it, the better the fit.

Jackson: I see. Sort of like Mission Impossible.

Clancy: It appears so. But much more advanced. There is one mask
specially prepared to fit the contours of your face. You may try it
on.

Jackson: There goes my chiseled face. (places the mask gently)

Clancy: Here. What do you think?

Jackson: God damn! I really look like this crooked face dude.

Clancy: You have an appointment scheduled for tomorrow at the Japanese
hot steam pool Yokinawa. There you should meet the big dog himself.

Jackson: So I finally get my first taste of action.

Clancy: Be careful of what you wish for; you might just get it.

[At the police counter]

"Don't you want to see the person?"

"No. I see no need for that."

"Up to you. You paid the bail."

"Make sure he gets this note. And also, don't let him know who bailed
him out."

"Sure thing lady. He's hella lucky to know a person like that."

Nagasi: No, I'm the lucky one. <Hikaru Hiyama! Tonight, your time
will be up. I've unleashed your worst enemy!>

[Tracking time]

(along the East River)

(#1 is tracking Goro's movements.)

(Goro finally stops off, where we see another shadowly figure amid the
fog.)

Goro: Has it arrived?

"Yes. The ship is in port now. "

Goro: Good. By tomorrow, everything will be in motion, once I obtain
my prize.

"As it should be, my Master."

#1: That voice...that sounds like the Colonel! But that's
impossible... or is it?

[NYPD Headquarters]

"Clancy!"

Clancy: What up?

"Just wanna let you know that someone actually posted the bail on that
dipshit!"

Clancy: What in blazes...when?

"He left about 15 minutes ago."

Clancy: Shoot! Why didn't you tell me sooner?

"Didn't know where you were. Hey, where are you going?"

Clancy: Gotta go help out a friend before it's too late!


[Along in the streets]

Hikaru: It's nice of you to accompany me.

Muroke: It's my pleasure. I'm so happy I get to walk with you before I
leave.

Hikaru: When are you leaving?

Muroke: Not sure yet, but probably in the next couple of days. I'm
sorry Kaori and #1 couldn't come along as well. They have other
business to attend to.

Hikaru: I should be the one who should be sorry. I would invite you
for a drink in one of the local bars, but I don't think that would be
the proper environment for a good, young person such as yourself.

Muroke: You're right. I'm still a minor

Hikaru: Y'know. I always get a sense of deja vu whenever I'm around
you. You remind me of someone back when I was in high school. Use to
follow my friend around all the time.

Muroke: (turning away) The world's a big place. Could be that you
attract like sort of company.

Hikaru: You could be right about that.

Muroke: Anyhow, I'll be 18 soon. And when I am, then you can take me
to the finest bar in town.

Hikaru: It's a deal. I know just the place to take you, where all the
bartenders are ladies, and they perform all sorts of tricks.

Muroke: You really promise?

Hikaru: Of course. I never break my promises.

Muroke: Sugoi! Eh? Why are we stopping off here? (looks at the shop)

KOHO'S

Muroke: What is this place?

Hikaru: It's a brush painting place. I'm picking up a little something
special for my friend. Tomorrow is her birthday!

Muroke: Can I take a peek?

Hikaru: Sure. Why not?

Muroke: Wow! It's beautiful. Did you draw this?

Hikaru: (meekly) Ummmm, ...yeah.

Muroke: It's wonderful, exquisite. Your brush-strokes is as graceful
as your dancing.

Hikaru: Stop it! You're making me blush!

Muroke; But it's true!

Hikaru: I can only take so much good cheer for one day. You better go
back now.

Muroke: I want to help you carry that picture back to your place!

Hikaru: I appreciate the gesture, but no need. I'm a big girl now. And
I also have to look out for you. Just head on back to you hotel. I'll
be fine. Ja now!

Muroke: Ja!!

[Cell Phone Rings]

"Haroken speaking."

"Where the hell were you? We've been trying to reach you for hours!"

Ryusei: #1. I'm glad you three are anxious to be in my company.

"Cut the crap. Do you know that Goro is in town right now?"

Ryusei: Unanticipated, but to be expected. That artifact must be very
important to him.

"I'm following him and his goon right now."

Ryusei: No need to continue. It seems like that all the participants
are present now. We can begin the final phase of the plan tomorrow.

"Are you sure this is the right time? Are you ready for the
consequences of your actions?"

Ryusei: I've been ready for this moment ever since I regained
consciousness almost five years ago now. The planets must be in
alignment now. The day of reckoning is upon us. Hmmm...

"What are you sighing about?"

Ryusei: Looks like our little friend has struck out propositioning
someone. I'll talk to him. You can go ahead and return to home base.

"Whatever you say boss."

[Kyosuke and Madoka in bed]

Kyosuke: How's my little bundle of joy?

Madoka: It is ok.

Kyosuke: Are you exhausted from today?

Madoka: I can manage, once I get my rest today.

Kyosuke; What are you thinking?

Madoka: Nothing. Everything. Random thoughts popping in and out.

Kyosuke: It will be a big day tomorrow.

Madoka: Tomorrow is just another day.

Kyosuke: Don't say that. Tomorrow will be special. I promise I will
make it worth your while, for all three of us.

(kisses her passionately)


[Tracking II]

Kaori is following the strange lady who was with Goro before.

She is zigzagging through the huge crowds and tourists flooding the
streets amid a backdrop of yellow canary cabs.

Finally, the mystery lady veers off across the street to the park,
just as the pedestrian light turns off. As a bus passes by, Kaori
suddenly loses visual sight of her.

Kaori: Where the hell did she go?

[In the back of the bookstore, in the secret room]

(We see a lone #1 by himself at the computer terminals)

(He is punching in a number.)

(A synthesized, distorted voice booms out into the background.

"This better be an emergency!"

#1: Of course Casey, my man! Otherwise, I would never thought to
invoke the 'Divine Intervention' code to reach you.

"You bet. If this is a false alarm, I will unleash the 'Divine
Retribution' on you."

#1: Very funny.

"What hath transpired?"

#1: The timetable has been turned up drastically. The clan meetings
will start tomorrow. All the clan members have effectively arrived
here. I need you to warn the 'Pol people that better get in position
pronto

"This is indeed grave. The neutralizing equipment is just being
shipped in now. And the containment center won't be ready by then.

#1: Just make do with what you have and provide me details
later. Plus, I'll need some backup to support me when I make my move.

"Understood. If you succeed with your mission, you're certain to
receive commendation from the general."

#1: I don't give a rat's ass what the general thinks. This is
personal, plain and simple. I have my own agenda to attend to. After
this, I won't need to owe anybody anything at all. You hear me?

"Loud and clear. You're be lucky if you can worm your way out of the
special unit force."

#1: Just let them try to stop me!

(brandishes his silver sidearm, Ole Betsy!)


[Greenwich Village]

(late evening)

(Hikaru is arriving back to her apartment, quite occupied with
carrying the painting with both hands.)

(As she is traversing the steps, a shadowy figure suddenly appears
from the dark alleyways and is making his way towards her!)




[-End of Act II-]
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