rk@soda.berkeley.edu HARD |< O R A novella by Robert Kwong This Chapter finished 2/2/96 ver 1.01 Please read Disclaimer on http://www-ucsee.eecs.berkeley.edu/~rk/HardKor.html first! Send comments or flames to rk@soda.berkeley.edu Based on characters by Izumi Matsumoto As you can see, this is fanfiction harkening back to the old Kimagure Orange Road series. The turn of events and timeline depicted here occur right after Shin Kor I, but before Shin Kor II. This is the graphic reaccount of the adult lives of Madoka, Hikaru, and Kyosuke. Like the Shin KOR novels, these stories contain adult themes, situations, and language.Thus parental guidance is advised. Thus read with your own discretion! Notes: Phrases in < > are characters thinking to themselves. [] indicates scene changes Legend: H=Hikaru M=Madoka R=Ryusei K=Kasuga BOOK A: Chapter 8: Inception Hiyama okaa-san comes into Hikaru's room carrying a tray holding freshly brewed herbal tea, while Hikaru sits in a chair watching over the unconscious Ryusei who is layed out on her bed. "Thank you mama for the tea." "You're welcome, musume. Strange fellow, is he not? Always wearing those dark glasses, even at dinner. Are you sure you want to be working for such a odd person?" "He's OK mama. Now you don't get on his case now. You always do that with all the men in my life. He was polite and cordial to you and papa the whole night!" "That he was. If he were only a little less-scary looking and shave off his beard and mustache, then he would make a good suitor for you!" "MAMA!" "Alright, dear,... I know when I'm not wanted. You should really take those hideous glasses off him to let him sleep better. And you too better get some rest yourself. I've already made out your mat in the guest room for you. Don't stay up too late for him. Oyasumi Naisai!" (Good Night) As she left, I thought about what she said before as I peered into Ryusei's blank, expressionless face. Why must he always be wearing those silly sunglasses? And what did he mean back at lunch when he said that he might have some "secrets" to hide from me? All of this didn't make any sense at all. Was he playing some game, with me as his puppet? Or was it just playful banter on his part. Why must he always be two-faced, always engaging in his double-talk? Was this just the normal behavior of an agent? If it was, he must be one damn, good agent at that! But now, I was presented with an opportunity to unmask this "phantom" and reveal his true identify. I was sorely tempted to remove those sunglasses to see what lay beyond. After all, it wouldn't be comfortable to try to rest with your glasses on, right? So I would be doing him a favor, like mama said. But I really shouldn't do such a thing without asking him. Plus he stressed how wearing those tinted glasses maintained his "tough" edge. But he was asleep, so I really couldn't ask him. And he was not in the middle of any power brokering; just slumbering. So it would be alright, I told myself. There was no turning back; already, I couldn't stop my hands from involuntarily progressing towards him. Slowly, my hands edge closer and closer to his face and up to his temples; my fingers had already firmly gripped the hinges of the glasses. Now all that remained was to lift it up and away from his eyes. Slowly, but gently I tugged, millimeter by millimeter, as the glasses retracted away from his face. It was almost off when... [Back in the Green Castle Apartments...] Kurumi: Oniichan! You did what? K: You heard me. I promised Hatta and Komatsu that you two were going to go out with them this upcoming weekend. Manami: But we already have something planned. We're going out... (A sock mysteriously flies up and pops right into Manami's mouth, causing her to start to gag) Kurumi: Don't pay any attention to what she was saying. I'm doing the talking now. Really! You have no right to set us up on these dates without our permission! K: Hey! I thought you two would be ecstatic about the idea. Usually you jump at the chance to eat those hentais' wallets to the poorhouse. And mighty fat wallets at that, I might add! Kurumi: That's not the point! It's a matter of principle. Manami: (manages to get the sock out of her mouth) Phew! Cough Cough! That's surprising Kurumi! I never knew you to be the one who was so caught up with principle! Kurumi: (glares at Manami) You're not helping! And you know what we have to do this weekend? Hmm? Manami: Yeah, I almost forgot. (Turns to Kyosuke) We're refusing to go out with those two "dirty" scoundrel friends of yours. You're just going to have to blow them off yourself! I shocked you're forcing us to be in their company, knowing their nature and such. K: They're harmless. Sure, they can talk up a nasty storm, but when it gets down to backing up the talk, they always fold. Besides, if they're stupid enough to try anything, they're get a taste of Kurumi's new wrestling chokehold! Everyone knows you don't mess with the Kasugas! Kurumi: So what's your point? Yeah, we can handle them just fine with the Power. Why are you so eager to thrust us upon them? Usually, you're the one warning us not to get near the likes of them. Why the sudden change, huh? Manami: Unless they have something on you. They're not blackmailing you, are they, oniichan? K: (Turns away) That's none of your business. And anyway, I've already agreed for you. You have to go, whether you like it or not. Kurumi: And what if we still refuse? What are you going to do about it? You can't physically force us to go, no matter how strong your Powers are. And you can't hypnotize us, since you don't possess that skill. Manami: So it looks like you're stuck! (Makes a face at him: Bleah! 8)- ) K: I know I can't talk you guys into it, so maybe this will do the trick. (Takes out two writing books from under the couch) Kurumi and Manami: HEY! THAT'S OUR DIARIES! YOU STOLE OUR DIARIES! K: Yep. If you two can't possibly make it to the date because you got something else better to do, then I guess I'll be forced to give Komatsu and Hatta these notebooks to gleam over as compensation. Kurumi and Manami: (Fuming, faces getting red, and pounding their fists) Why you... K: (raises index finger to stop them) Nah Uh Uhhh! I wouldn't try to pull any punches if I were you two. You know that violence never ever solved anything. You never know where I just might teleport to and -- your diaries gone forever and into those perverts' hands. So I caution you two to act wisely so you can reclaim these interesting "stories" of yours. So do we have a deal or what? Manami: He's right, you know. We won't be able to track him down once he flashes out. Kurumi: (stamps her feet) Oh,...I hate you Oniichan! But I give in! We're go on your baka date. Just give us back our diaries. NOW! K: Ordinarily, I would just leave it at that. But I need to be sure you two won't double-cross me. So let's perform the Kasuga Pledge to seal the pact. Kurumi: Don't you trust us? Manami: Do we have to? That's kids stuff! K: Yes we do. Otherwise, its bye bye books. Here! (raises up pinky finger) (The twins join in; all 3 of the Kasugas' pink fingers are joined together as they utter a silly little chant) Ichi ni SAN! We are Kasugas' 3! Shi to die go be true Roku! to set! Hachi hachi hachi! Ku ju ku ju ku ju! K: There. That was't so bad. Here you go. (flips the books back to them) Kurumi: (suspending hers in mid air and opening the pages) Hey,... these aren't diaries,...just blank composition books! Manami: How cruel of you oniichan! Tricking us like that. Kurumi: Yeah. But at least he didn't have a clue where we hid our diaries. K: That's right. So I thought of the next best thing. How else could I get you two to go along? Kurumi: So you were bluffing the whole time? K: Yep. Manami: I don't like oniichan's "sneaky" new behavior, and I say we teach him a lesson. (one end of a piece of rope rises from behind the couch and behind Kyosuke) Kurumi: Yeah; I know what you mean. (Other end of rope rises up also) K: Huh? (Before Kyosuke can react fast enough, the Twins quickly use the Power to wind the rope around Kyosuke, binding him and rendering him totally incapacitated) K: Very funny. What's going on? How come I can teleport out of my bonds? Manami: Ha ha ha! We got you now! Kurumi: You can't use the Power! You can't use the Power! Manami: Thank god ojiisan forgot to bring back his "special" rope back with him. //Referring to the soul-switching rope in OAVs Kurumi: This is for tricking us and not paying up at lunchtime! Manami: Yeah! What a cheapskate oniichan we have. Here. You can watch over Jingoro for us. (use telekinesis to float Jingoro over to Kyosuke's lap) Kurumi: We're going out to party now. You two have fun. Ja ne! Manami: Atikamess! (door slams) K: Wait! Kurumi-chan! Manami-chan! You can't leave me here like this! Come back here right away! I'm you're oniichan and you can't treat me like this! I'm going to make sure otou-san hears about this! You just watch! (Kyosuke starts to feel warm liquid oozing on his pants) K: Oh no Jingoro! Not here! Don't do it on my pants! Ahhhhhhhhhhh! [Back in the Hiyama residence] "Oh!" I flinched as a hand suddenly clasped onto mine. I quickly released my grip on the frames. It was Ryusei's hands and he had just woke up. (Re-adjusting glasses back onto his face) (feeling embarrassed) "Ryusei-san! Are you alright?" "Yes,... I believe so. What happened to me? Why am I lying here?" "I was showing you around my room when you suddenly went into shock from some pain that converged upon you. You groaned for a bit before you passed out. " "How long was I out?" "It's been about two hours now. It's a little after 9pm." "My men...#1 and #2, ... I need to talk to them..." (Tries to rise up from the bed and falls back) "Easy, easy! Don't make any sudden movements! I've already takened care of it for you. I explained to them what happened and told them that you would be staying over here in my house for the night. I offered them lodging in my home, but they said they had already planned to stay over at a friends' place. They said to give them a call when you were ready to go tomorrow." (Sits up against the bed) "Thanks for all your help. I'm sorry I am putting you through this much trouble in your own house. But,... where are you going to sleep?" "My mama has already prepared the guest room for me. I'll be sleeping there." "No,... I should be sleeping there. You should be sleeping in your own room. I feel out of place, sleeping in a woman's bedroom, (tries to rise up again, but falls back again) "Hold it! Stop squirming, Ryusei! You really shouldn't move around like that for a person in your condition. What you need to do now is to stop worrying about my needs and focus on conserving your strength and resting. Here. My mama brewed this special concotion of herbal tea especially for you. It will help boost your body's immune system. (pours tea and presents cup to him)" "Arigatou, Miss Hiyama-san." "Hikaru. Please. I'm not really into formalities." "Right. I forgot. Hikaru. Thank you very much." (takes a sip of tea) "Mmmm, very good tea indeed!" "So,... do you know what's the problem which triggered that attack?" "The cause of all this trouble I'm putting your through is as a result of my acute, migrane headaches. It gets triggered by a combination of factors: cold, rainy weather, the "jet lag" from the long car trip, and my allergy to certain types of seafood. I believe ultimately, it was the shrimp that did me in." "Why didn't you say so before? But why did you eat the shrimp, even though you knew of your allergic reaction to it?" "I didn't want to appear impolite in front of your parents by not eating one of your okaa-san's finely crafted dishes." "Sou ka...." (I see...) "No need to watch over me now! I'm fine. Really. I'll be as good as new in the morning. You go up on ahead and get your rest. I'll manage here by myself." "Are you sure?" "I'm positive. If I need anything, I'll just holler out your name. ok?" "Alright. Yokatta you're all right. If you're really fine, I'll go. Oyasumi Naisai!" (I'm glad) "Oyasumi Naisai to you too, Hikaru. Pleasant dreams." [Back at the Koji's house...] Koji mother: Muroke! It so good of you to come by and visit your okaa-san. It's tough alone by myself with your otou-san away on business trips and you off in Tokyo. #2: (sunglasses off) Ma! You know I try to come and visit as often as I can. I just happen to be in the area, so here I am. Koji mother: And your friend here is... #1: (in broken Japanese) How do you do? My name is Ken Takahara and I'm a foreign exchange student from the U.S. I befriended your fine son here back in the fine city of Tokyo, and he was good enough to allow me to come along to view the fine Hokkaido scenary. Excuse my poor Japanese, but I'm still learning. (bows slightly) Koji mother: So you were not born here? #1: No maam. I was born and raised on Honolulu, Hawaii. This is my first time in Japan. I wanted return to my roots, so here I am. Koji mother: How unfortunate of you! To be isolated from your motherland for so long. Well, I'm going to treat you and Muroke to the best home-cooked, Hokkaido cuisine you've ever tasted! #1: Thank you madam. I'm honored. Now if you excuse me, Muroke and I have things to discuss. #2: You bet we do. Excuse us. (Koji mother goes to kitchen while #1 and #2 enter the living room) #2: (irked) What are you trying to pull back there? Making up all that stuff about the exchange student bit and all that? And what's up with that phony accent? You can speak perfect Japanese! #1: Well, how else were you going to explain me to your okaa-san? Then you and I are both limosine drivers for a high-flying talent agent? That you lied to her about what you were really doing in Tokyo? Not a very honest son, are you... #2: Just wait a minute. I didn't exactly lie...I just didn't tell her what was going on,... just all. #1: Not disclosing the facts is just as bad as lying. That's why I did all the lying for you. I figure she would leave me alone, with me pretending to be a foreign exchange student and all. Gave you a perfect excuse to explain your presence back here. It is best that we isolate her as much as possible about our "extracurricular" activities. That way, she won't get involved You aren't very good at keeping a straight face as I recall... #2: Now what the hell are you talking about? #1: Master has many enemies in places. You always have to watch yourself and worry about your loved ones. I don't want to see your family hurt as a result of your association with him. It's best to take extra precautions. #2: Gee, I didn't anticipate all this trouble when I agreed to work for Master. #1: Live with it. You don't want to let an old friend down, do you? #2: (mutter, mutter) No, I guess not. But that doesn't mean I have to like it. #1: Don't worry; You're be fine. I'll take care of everything. #2: That's what I 'm afraid of! [back to Green Castle apts] Kyosuke is tired, after trying for an hour to wring out of his bonds. (Ring Ring! Ring Ring! Ring Ring!) "Damn it! I can't even answer the damn phone! Now what am I going to do?" (Manami-chan's voice) "Hello. Mosh Moshi! You have reached the Kasuga residence. Currently, Manami, (Kurumi-voice) KURUMI!, and (sempai's voice) Kasuga Kyosuke (back to Manami's voice) is not here to answer your call. Please leave a detailed message and we will get back to you. Have a nice day:) (Beep!) "Hello? Kasuga? Are you there? I've been waiting for you at the restaurant for over an hour now..." It was Ayukawa! "I hope nothing bad has happened to you. Please call me back when you get home. Oyasumi! (Good night) I tried harder to squirm out of the rope, but it was no use. I even tried to use my telekinesis powers to answer, but I only succeeded in knocking the machine over, since the phone cord was not long enough to reach me. Besides, Madoka had already hung up, so my efforts were in vain. Shit! I hate standing up Madoka! Especially in this situation, when I was going to use that evening alone together to discuss with her our future endeavors and how we were going to proceed. I guess it just going to have to wait. Boy, my revenge on those two scheming party-animal sisters of mine will be swift and sweet! (All of a sudden, Akane pops in) K:Akane! Am I glad to see you! Akane:You're talking to me? Where's Kurumi and Manami? And why are you tied up like that? K: I'll explain it to you later. Just help me get this rope off! Akane: Let me pick up the phone first. (picks up answering machine and places it back on the table, but triggers the message by Madoka) Akane: What! You left poor Madoka-san all by herself at the restaurant? Is that the way to treat her? After I let you have her? Boy, men can be so cruel! Why do I bother with them! K: Wait! Akane-chan! It's all a misunderstanding,... I can explain... Akane: That's all you men are good at, aren't you? Always trying to explain why you all act like idiots! That's all I got from my last boyfriend. Just a bunch of excuses to cover up his lies! Well, I'm not going to take no more! You men can all go to hell! (throws a magazine at him and storms off for the door) K: Oww! Akane: (just before leaving out the door) By the way! You STINK! (door slams shut!) [At the Koji residence again...] #1: My compliments to the chef. That was the one of the most delicious meals I've ever tasted in my life. Koji mother: Arigatou. It's really nothing. Which reminds me...Muroke. I forgot to tell you that a attractive young woman was looking for you. #2: She was? Koji mother: Yes, she was. I wasn't sure why, but she said that you and her were old friends of each other. I didn't know you had a girlfriend! #2: (nervously) I don't. She must have mistakened me for another person. So what did you say to her? Koji mother: I told her you've weren't living here anymore. That you were living in Tokyo instead. #2: You didn't give her my address, did you? Koji mother: Of course not! But why shouldn't I? Is there something you're trying to hide from me? #2: (laughing nervously) No,.. of course not... I just don't want strange, beautiful woman popping up at my door, that's all. You know it's not good for my studies. Koji mother: Yes, I know dear. So how long can you and Takahara-san stay in this beautiful town of Hokkaido? #1: (interrupting #2 who is about to speak) Sorry maam, but we have to go on to our next stop first thing in the morning. It's part of the schedule of the travel group we are touring with. Next stop for us is Okinawa. Koji mother: Is that so? Well I wish you safety and good tidings in your journeys. Take good care of my son for me. He can act foolish at times... #2: Mom! #1: (cheeky smile) Don't worry maam. I will. [Back again at the Kasuga residence...] Again, I was lamenting my current situation. I was stuck on a Saturday night, all alone by myself except with Jingoro, tied up, tired, and smelly. Curse those twins for playing an evil trick on me! Now everyone will be mad at me, if they weren't already. Oh, the cruel irony of it all... (Door opens again. This time, Kazuya comes in.) K: Kazuya-chan! Over here! Tasukete! (Help me!) Kazuya: What's up, Kyo-niichan? (sees him and smiles) You're all tied up! Just the perfect position I want you in! K: Kazuya! What are saying? Help untie me this minute! Kazuya: (stand there, looking up the ceiling, whistling) What is it worth to me? K: I don't believe you trying to profit from my current predicament! Kazuya: Of course. I'm still a kid. Kids are suppose to do that. Besides, it's a mutual thing; you help me out, then I'll help you out. K: What is it this time? Kazuya: I need for you to help me get out of this date arrangement I'm currently stuck in... K: Don't tell me that you made dates with both of those two kawaii girlfriends of yours at the same time and you want me to help you back out of it? Kazuya:No, not exactly. Actually, the only reason I bother stopping by here was to escape the clutches of those two. I figured they're never would guess I would be here. K: Then what is it then? Kazuya: Akane has some big date tagging along with Kurumi and Manami-nee-san next Saturday. And Akane is forcing me to come along! She won't let me out of her sights. K: Really? (Gets devilish look on his face as if he's planning something ;) ) My sisters have something planned for next weekend? Like what? Kazuya: Apparently, she convinced Kurumi and Manami to let her in on a date they were planning with a couple of guys; but that's all know, since that's all I've read of her mind. But the bummer is that she's forcing me to come along! I'm too old for that, having her watch over me like a child! I should be able to go anywhere I like! K: Well, weren't you grounded because of that incident? Kazuya: Yeah, but it was only a little fire, that's all. No big deal at all. K: But Akane got chewed out by her folks over that. That's why she's treating you the way she is; she doesn't want to get blamed for another crazy stunt you might pull. Kazuya: Hey now! You shouldn't talk to me that way if you want me to help you. K: OK, OK. So Akane is being a little overprotective. Can't blame me for that. Kazuya: No, but it will be your problem in figuring out how to get me out of this. So do we have a deal or what? K: Yeah, sure. Just untie me first and we're discuss the details later. Kazuya: Ok. Say,...Oniichan. (looks at pants) I didn't know you still needed potty training at your age! (We see Kyosuke grimace at that remark!) -----------------------------The next day...--------------------------------- "Ohayoo Ryusei! Rise and Shine! We have a long day ahead of us. (looks inside bedroom) Ryusei? Huh? I looked around inside my bedroom only to be surprised to see no one there! The room showed no traces of its former occupant: The bed was made and the blankets were neatly folded. Even the chair was pushed back behind my desk. I scanned the tables for any indication of any messages he might have left, but could not find any. I was puzzled; where could he be now? He was like a shadow, here one moment and gone the next. Always shifting from place to place, leaving no trace of his presence. A ninja perhaps? [At the Kasuga residence...] We see Kyosuke, wearing only a t-shirt and boxer shorts(looking like your basic house bum, with unshaven face), sitting on the couch, staring at the crumpled, stained business card, as if trying to make out some numbers. "Hello there? Mosh Moshi? Is this TTV Productions?" "Gomen, but you have the wrong number." "Sorry for disturbing you. Bye." Chikuso! That was the twentieth number I dialed. If I keep this up, I'll lose the feeling in my fingers! If it weren't for Jingoro peeing on my business card, I wouldn't be in this mess. If it weren't for Kurumi and Manami tying me up, I wouldn't be in this mess. Boy, am I going to get back at them REAL GOOD. (Stares up at bucket of water hanging over the front door) Hmm, those two are not back yet. I wonder what they could be doing all night... Well, no matter. They will have to come home sooner or later. When that happens, SPLASH! They're get drenched like I did! Ok Kyosuke, enough with the scheming. Time to go to work and give it one last shot. (punches in the numbers on the touch-tone fx) "Mosh Moshi? TTV Productions?" "Yes, this is TTV Productions. How may I help you? "May I speak to a Miss Tamura-san, the station manager? Hold? Yes, I can hold. Domo. (thumbing his fingers on the table waiting as he hears the cheasy bumper music...) "Gozaimasu. Tamura speaking? To whom am I addressing?" (Good morning) (Quickly stands at attention) "Oh! Yes, Miss Tamura-san,... My name is Kasuga Kyosuke and... "Are you the one who has been giving me those obscene prank phone calls? Because if you are I'm going to give you a piece of my mind... (panicky) "No no miss! Please! Don't hang up on me! It's all a big misunderstanding. I can explain everything...Please hear me out." (slight pause)"Well, you sound decent enough. I'm giving you 30 seconds of my time to straighten things out. Starting now..." "You see, it's like this. A friend gave me your business card, but it inadvertantly fell into the wrong hands; Apparently some hentai "enemies" of mine wanted to slander my good name and indulge in their perverted fantasies as the same time. Please accept my apologies for their behavior and conduct. If you still want to hang up, then I'll understand." (longer pause)"Alright, Mr Kyosuke-san, if that's who you really are. You sound genuine enough, so I'll accept your story for now. But my time is precious, so you better make it quick. So what is the nature of your inquiry? "I was told you were the person to contact to talk about a possible job opening for a part-time cameraman at your station. Am I correct in that assumption?" "Yes,... we have interviewed several possible candidates already. The cutoff deadline is tomorrow Monday. Do you wish to request an interview?" "Yes I do, very much so, if it's possible." "Yappari.(I thought so) Just wait while I check my appointment book to see what times are left...(sounds of fumbling with the phone receiver...) Here we go,... it looks like the only time I have left is 11:30am. Will you be able to make that time?" "Yes I can! Thank you very much!" "Fine. I'll be expecting you. Just come down into the receptionist area and have the attendant page me. I will then come out and get you. Be sure to dress suitably and bring your resume." "Resume?" "Yes; a resume. For evaluating your credentials. " "Right you are. What was I thinking? (Godai "flushed" laugh) Anything else I should know?" "No. That's it for now. Good speaking to you Mr Kyosuke; I'll see you tomorrow at 11:30 sharp." "Good speaking with you " also. Hello? " Jumps up from couch and yells SUTEKI! (fantastic!) But I don't have a resume prepared yet. Gotta go to the bookstore and pick up a resume-writing book. (Quickly puts on a pair of pants and sweater and rushes out the door) (knob turning) SPLASH! We see just outside the front door Kurumi and Manami who were just about to enter themselves. Kurumi: Gee oniichan. Are you going for that new "drenched" retro look? [Back in the Hiyama residence..] I went into the kitchen to prepare some tea. I was concerned about what Ryusei was up to, especially in his weakened condition from his allergy attack yesterday. He certainly was a strange fellow indeed. As I was filling the kettle at the sink, I peered out into our garden and there he was! He was sitting next to a row of flowers, assuming the lotus position, his eyes closed I believe (can't tell since he's still wearing his sunglasses!), deep in meditation. He seemed to be at peace for that moment. Must be tough coping with all the stress of being an agent. "Hikaru! The kettle is overflowing! You should turn off the water." It was mama again. "Gomen naisai. I wasn't paying attention." (Sorry) (sigh; shakes her head as she leaves kitchen) "Still clutzy in the kitchen." I ignored her comment. I was more intrigued with what Ryusei was doing. Simply put, he did a lot of odd things normal people usually don't go around doing. But he must be something different,... something special... I tiptoed outside into the garden so I wouldn't disturb him in his relaxed state. This was the perfect place to meditate in. Everything in full bloom; the wind mixing about the various sweet-smelling floral fragrances to form an intoxicating, aromatic "perfume" in the air ,and the tranquility of the vegetation all about. A very peaceful setting to get back in tune with nature. "Hikaru-san! Don't just stand there gawking at me. Come and join me and experience the inner peace of this area." "Huh?" "You seem to be under a lot of stress these past few days. I'm going to show you a technique I use to alleviate that stress. Just sit down on the ground beside me. Don't worry; it's clean." I wasn't sure why, but I did as he instructed, sitting next to him, gazing about at the pretty flowers in front of me. "Now close your eyes and let go of all your thoughts... Good,... you're doing fine. Now take a deep breath through your nasal passages first and exhale slowly through the mouth. Repeat this five more times. But don't force it. Let your breathing rhythm come naturally. Feel the air around you. " (Hikaru goes through with his instructions) "Now open your eyes. How does that feel? " "I feel very remarkably refreshed, -- my head seems to have cleared up. " "Good. I'm glad you could derive some benefit from this exercise. I perform it whenever I can to relieve the stress of everyday living. But there are few places you can find in Tokyo where you can find such a quiet, natural surrounding." "How how did you know I was there back then? I was right behind you. Did you hear me?" "Na,... it wasn't that. I sensed your presence. You emit a potent, vibrant life force that could be easily felt." "Life-force?" "An energy field or aura all living things emit. That which I believe distinguishes us from the inanimate. It is a theory, of course, but one that I subscribe to. (looks at her confused face) I shouldn't bog down your mind with my idle technical mumble-jumble. This is a nice garden you have here. Your okaa-san must have done a good job maintaining it." //more weird Ryusei babblings "Yes; gardening is her pasttime. Thank you. So, how long have you been out here?" "I woke up at the crack of dawn. I wanted to experience the awakening of the flowers as they "opened" their "eyes" towards the rising sun and suckled the morning dew. It's done wonders for my condition. I'm feeling refreshed and rejuvenated already. //More nature/harmony stuff which is usually associated with the Japanese "That's wonderful. I hate to sound like I'm in a rush, but we do have a full day ahead of us, getting back to Tokyo and such. We really should get going." "No need to worry about that. I've already gotten everything moving. #1 and #2 will be coming by with the limo and moving truck in about ten minutes. In the meantime, let's enjoy the little time we have left here. (Waves hand at a flower and turns to Hikaru) "May I?" "Sure, go ahead. I'm sure my mama won't mind." (plucks a glistening white flower right in front of him and presents it to Hikaru) "Here you go. A pretty white chrysanthemum to match your aura. From one flower to another." (blushes and turns head away) "Arigtou." [At an open-air cafe ,near lunchtime, we see the "goddess" Ayukawa wearing an elegant, white summer dress, white pumps, and wearing a plush white hat to complete the ensemble. She is sitting along at her table outside, waiting for someone. It's your basic country-club type setting of the rich and powerful] "Ayukawa dear. We're here!" (She looks up to see Nagasi dressed in a scandalous, revealing bluish dress-suit, wearing a feathered, purple satin hat and candy-apple red snakeskin high heels. She is accompanied by Hayakawa. ) There was silly Mitsuru, always tagging along to see me, accompanying Nagasi, the "administrator" for Ryusei. She contacted me earlier in the morning to meet her here to discuss the contract she had drawn up. I had to call Kasuga to rearrange our lunch date for dinner instead. He was very accomdating towards my plight. Kyosuke -- what a great guy he is. I am thankful each day for the love and support he provides me. She had an "air" about her during our brief conversation and I saw why. There was an uncanny resemblance between the two of us except she looked more sinister and jaded looking. Both of us had long, thick, black hair, but she chose to tie her hair up in a "corporate style" while I let my hair flow loose and free. Her manner of dress suggested close-mindedness and defiance: everything tight and colors dark. She had a natural, glaring, menacing look. I remember seeing myself in the very same position a long time ago. Was she my "alter ego"? My "evil" twin? What I would have turned out to be had I continued on my path of delinquency had I not been rescued by sweet Kasuga-kun? H: It's so good of you to meet us here today on such short notice. I apologize if you had to cancel any appointments for today. Are you expecting someone here? M: Hi Hayakawa. No, I am not. (turns to woman) You must be Nagasi. Nagasi: Hello there. So I finally meet you, the person that Ryu-sei been buzzing about. Do you mind if I smoke? M: No,... go right ahead. Nagasi: Good. (Takes out fancy smoking stick with cigarette attached to the end. Hayakawa lights it for her. She takes a few puffs and blows it right into Ayukawa's face!) Nagasi: Now as I was saying, Ryusei is out of town on personal business right now so I'm conducting this "evaluation" on his behalf. For your information, I'm his personal assistant. M: (waves off smoke) Charmed, I'm sure. Would you like a drink? Nagasi: No thanks. I don't have much time to waste on idle chit-chat here, so let's get right down to business. I've already heard some of samples of your work and you sound decent enough. Hayakawa has said so many glowering things about you on our way here. Is any of it true? M: I'm sure Hayakawa tends to exagerates everything he says. (Hayakawa gives an amazed look) Nagasi: I quite agree. But in this case, he could be right in his lavish praise. Maybe so. We're see. So what is it inside you that motivates you to write music, all be it good or bad? M: Motivation? (slight pause) For me, having the support and backing of friends and family makes songwriting worthwhile. Being with the people I care for inspires me to do what I do best: write music. Nagasi: (inquisitive, obnoxious mode)A nice, safe answer. But do really think you have the fortitude to complete this long and lengthy and complex musical project for the play. It's not the same thing as writing a 2 minute pop song which appears to be your ONLY musical experience. M: I realize your concerns. But music is music, be it short or long. I hope that you're not suggesting that just because I have only written songs of short duration so far that I don't have the ability to write long compositions. I certainly do not have a short attention span, if that's what you're implying. I believe I am capable and up to the task. It's up to you to decide whether I have the ability or not. (cold death stare //shudder) Nagasi: My,my, no need to get testy here. I'm just asking questions. You got some gall . But I like a person who isn't afraid to speak their mind. At least I know where we stand. Hayakawa: Don't forget Nagasi that her parents are the famous, reknown musicians known world-wide. Nagasi: (snaps at him) What does that matter to me? I'm interviewing her, not them. Don't get off the subject! Hayakawa: (motions to waiter) I want to order a drink: scotch, on the rocks, quick! Nagasi: Getting back to what I was saying, here's a hypothetical question. Would you rather be a rich and famous pop star who writes awful songs or an ignominius, small-time composer, who writes great songs, but lives in obscurity? Madoka: Neither. I rather be me and write music which I feel is true to my own self. I must believe in the song I'm writing; otherwise what's the point? And I don't write songs based on what people want to hear. Instead, I let the audience decide whether or not my musical scores is good or not. If they don't like it, then that's fine. But as long as I'm satisfied with it, then any success that comes of it will be "icing on the cake." Nagasi: I've heard enough. Here. (motions to Hayakawa who opens his briefcase and hands her a manila folder). Take it. That's the contract for the play. Go ahead and have your lawyer look through it. If you have any questions, call Ryusei. (tosses a business card to her) Just make sure it gets back to Ryusei in two days. Just drop by his office if you think you're ready for this. Now, if you would excuse me, I have a manicure appointment to attend to. Atikamess! (stands out and haughtily walks out towards awaiting black limo, her butt swishing back and forth like one of those supermodels walking on the catwalk) M: What's eating at her? Hayakawa: Oh, don't mind her; she's like that with everyone. Too spoiled and uppity for her own good. By the way, are you free tonight? M: No; I having dinner with Kasuga. Why do you ask? Hayakawa: I just got two tickets to this play tonight. I was hoping we might go together, to allow you to get a feel of the music and choreographing involved in matching the music to the movements of the performers. M: (slight laugh) I appreciate the offer. But I think I know what's expected of me. I've attended my share of plays. But why are you asking me? Shouldn't you take Shiori instead? She is your finance after all! Hayakawa: Alas! I wish I could. But she's working late again at that blasted station. I think she's too dedicated and hard-working for her own good. M: Something you're not acostomed to? Hayakawa: What was that? M: Just kidding. [At the bookstore...] (We see Kyosuke perusing the bookshelves for the perfect resume-writing book) K: Let's see,...'Basic Resume Writing',...'Create your Resume in 10 easy steps',...'Resume for Dummies',...Ah! There it is! 'Resume Writing: Primer'. Better get started quick so I won't miss my dinner date with Madoka tonight. (turns around and bumps into a person). K: Excuse me. (cringes back) Oiii? Hatta: Hey buddy! Good to see you here. You're just the person we're looking for. Hey Komatsu! Looke here. The K-man's back! Komatsu: Yo Kyosuke. Missed our company so soon? K: Nonsense! Get out of my way. I need to get back. Komatsu: Wait a minute! What about our deal? K: It's all takened care of already. Just call them up to arrange the time and place to meet them. Now if you excuse me, I have to get going... Hatta: Far out! That's great man! I thought you would never pull it off, convincing your kawaii sisters of yours. Komatsu: You finally got something done. This calls for a celebration! (both guys pull at each of Kyosuke's arms, dragging him off) K: Hey! What the hell are you guys doing? Where are we going? Komatsu: Since you've stopped by in our neck of the woods, it's time for us to keep our promises. We're taking you to see the latest adult flic. K: (eyes bulge out 8-0) Hatta: Hey, it's our treat. K: I don't have time for this,... I'm not going. Komatsu: Too bad. But you don't have a choice in the matter. You're going to enjoy this, whether you like it or not. Hatta: It's only two blocks away. And I hear the action's pretty hot! Komatsu: (to bookstore clerk) Hey bud! Put his book on my tab. Now you have to come with us. Otherwise, I'll tell him you stole the book! K: You guys are crazy! Hatta: Hey,... we just know how to have a good time. Now git! [Driving in Hokkaido...] R: Where are we now #2? #2: We're right now driving through the city of Sapporo. Next rest stop will be at Hakodate. H: Can we stop here for now? R: what for? H: I forgot that I needed to buy something before I went back. And there this new mall I'm been dying to visit called the Factory supermall. (to #2) Do you know the way there. #2: Yep. Sure do. It's actually right around this upcoming corner. Wanna go there? H: (looking at him with pleading eyes) Ryusei? R: sure, why not. Give #2 an early rest for now. Signal #1 behind us that we're be stopping here for the time being. (both the limo and the moving truck pull into the parking lot) H: Do you want to come along? R: No thanks. I never did like the concept shopping in malls. I'll let #2 accompany you. You two go on up ahead. I'll take care of some business here. (pulls up cellular phone and makes a call) H: (looking disappointed) Ok then. (motions to #2) Let's go. [At the adult movie theater...] We see Komatsu, Hatta and Kyosuke, sitting in the front row, watching a very explicit XXX movie. Kyosuke is trying not to look at the picture, averting his eyes away, but temptation eventually gives in. (sounds of moaning and heavy breathing in the background) ------movie dialogue------ Sultry vixen #1: Oh master! What are the sounds I hear inside that room? Master: That the cries of my servants receiving their "punishment" for being "bad." Vixen #1: Have I been a "bad" girl? Master: Yes you have. You've been a very "bad" girl. I would need to "punish" you myself. It looks like your bottom needs a beating. Take off your skirt. (rings a little bell) (sultry vixen #2 enters and hands him a paddle.) Master: (looks at vixen #1) What? You're wearing underwear? You know my rules about that. Now you're going to get it. Take it all off. Now! vixen: Ohh! Please! Punish me! Master: Indeed I will, you unfaithful servant of mine. You're going to get a good spanking! Vixen #1: YES! More! Master: You seem to be enjoying this too much. I'll have to resort to other means of "punishment." (takes off pants and grabs her from behind ; what follows is your typical cliqued humping action, with others joining in on the action. -------- hatta: Wow! What acting! Komatsu: You're enjoying this, aren't you Kyosuke? K: What are you talking about? I was looking at all! Komatsu: Don't you try to lie! I saw you peeking out of the corner of your eye. (looks at his pants) Yep! A mighty big bulge you have there. K: (blushes red) Let's go! The movie's over. Hatta: Not so fast! We bought tickets for a double-feature. That was Part I. Next is Part II! K: (groan) OH NO! [At the Sapporo Factory Mall...] #2: Miss Hiaymi-san? Can you help me out? H: Sure. What is it? #2: Miss Hiaymi-san, you're a girl, right? H: I believe so, last time I checked. #2:(embarrassed) Oops. Sorry. Phrased that wrong. What I meant is that you, being a woman, could have a woman's perspective. H: You could say that? Why the odd questions? #2:Well,... I'm going out on a date next weekend with someone I just met, and I'm not sure what to get her. Or would appear like I'm coming on too strong with a gift at all? H: (smiles) No, no. It's thoughtful of you to think of giving her a gift. Girls like that sort of thing. Especially when it's from the heart. #2: But I'm not sure what to get her. I'm afraid what I might pick out the wrong thing. I don't exactly have as refined a taste as yours. What do men usually get you? H: Well, for starters, the gift you get for her must match her personality. It won't help you much if I told you what other people brought for me. Do you know anything about her hobbies or pastimes? #2: Actually, we just met for a few moments. I don't know anything about her specifically. But I think she's the studious type. H: She wears glasses, no? #2: Yes, she does. H: Well, since you want to be casual, why not get her a good book? It's thoughtful and conservative and safe. Not too showy and it would be a momento to mark your first date by. It won't be perishable like flowers or chocolates would be. #2: Thanks a lot Miss Hiyama-san for your advice. You've been a great help to me. I'll be heading down to the book section. Come and get me when you're finished with your shopping. [Exiting the movie theater...] Hatta: That was great! I wish they would have a marathon! K: I'm going guys. You're free of your commitments. I've got stuff to do. Komatsu: Hey hey hey! Not so fast! What hosts would we be if we don't treat you to a meal. You're hungry, aren't you? K: (stomach growling) Yes, a little. Komatsu: Great! We're go to this exotic place I know and pick up a meal and get a few drinks. You're love it. K: (starts to protest) Hatta: We're paying. K: (jingle of small change in his pocket) In that case, I'll go with you. But only for a little while! I've wasted enough time already! Komatsu: Nah. You're having a great time! [Back at the mall...] H: Could you giftwrap this? My girlfriend's birthday is coming up. Clerk: Will do maam. The total price comes out to 5500 yen. Will this be by cash or charge? H: Charge please. (hands him credit card) (As he is processing the credit card, Hikaru remembers that this was the credit card that was over the credit limit back at the restaurant. ) H: Excuse me! I made a mistake. It seems that the credit card that I gave you ... Clerk: Here it is maam. What seems to be the problem? H: Ummm, the transaction went through? Clerk: Yes it did maam. Is there a problem? H: (laughs) No, not really. Sorry for the trouble. I placed my gift for Madoka in my bag and headed off for a pay phone. There, I called my credit card company, to see what was going on. Operator: Hi there. Thank you for callinger Bank Credit Services. Here is a listing of the following options available to you: To find out more about the financial services we offer press <1> For Billing Information press <2> ... To repeat these options press <7> To talk to a live operator press <0> Operator: Thank you, please hold. (bumper music playing ...) (After 3 minutes) Live Person: Hi there. Credit Number please. H: Live Person: Now punch in your PIN number. (beep dot ding beep) Live Person: Yes,... Miss Hiyama, how may I help you today? H: (broken English) Yes. Could you tell me how much credit I have? Am I over the limit? Live Person: Let me search for that. Please wait. (punch keys into computer) My screen shows that you are well under your limit. You still have around $945 remaining. The last payment for this account was logged yesterday. Your most recent transaction was 10 minutes ago. Is there anything else you would like to know? H: No. That would be all. Thank you. (Click!) (walking back to book section) [At the eatery, with party music in the background and flashing lights...] K: This isn't an eating establishment! This is a strip joint! Hatta: You can eat stuff here. There's pretzels and beer nuts by the bar. Komatsu: You whine too much. Here. Have another sake. K: I'm not drinking anymore! I've already had 5! Hatta: Why not? You can't handle it? K: (glares at him) I'll have you know that I can hold my liquor perfectly well, thank you. (grabs glass and guzzles it ) (slams glass back on table) There! Komatsu: (quickly pours in another cup) Here. Have another, big shot! K: Fine! (empties another glass) Komatsu: We're sure be in for a fine time! Afterwards, Kyosuke becomes grossly drunk and disoriented and forgets all about writing up his resume and his dinner date with Madoka. Instead, he makes a fool of himself, actually getting up and dancing a lewd dance (lambada perhaps) with the strippers. Hatta and Komatsu are thoroughly enjoying the spectacle Kyosuke is making of himself. Finally, Kyosuke's body can't take any more of the abuse and he collapses to the floor. Komatsu and Hatta have to drag him back into his house, where they dumped him there. He is lying on the couch, out cold. Many hours have passed. (lifts telephone using telekenetic powers. Phone travels in a snake-like motion towards him.) other end: Mosh Moshi? Is anyone there? Hello? Hello? K: (trying to open his eyes and sounding groggy) Yes. I'm here. Kyosuke speaking. Who's there? What do you want?" M: It's me, Madoka. Remember? You were suppose to meet me for dinner at 6:30?" K: What time is it now? M: It's 7:00 right now. What have you been ding all this time? K: I'm sorry Madoka. I'm feeling a little under the weather right now. I don't feel too good at all. I don't think I can make it tonight. M: Are you sick? Do you want me to come over? K: No, no. I'll be fine. Don't worry. You go and enjoy yourself for tonight. We're try to schedule something for later. I'll talk to you later. Bye! [Madoka at the restaurant alone...] M: What's up with Kasuga these days? Always missing our meetings. I'll guess I'll give Hayakawa a call and take him up on his offer. [Back to Kasuga's place...] (stretches arms) YAAAWWWWWWWWWNNNNNNNNNNN! I'd better get started on that resume. Gotta make it look real good. (uses power to open closet and take manual typewriter out and plop it on the coffee table next to the couch) Let's see. (flips through book.) Part One: The Prepartion. Kyosuke, still a little disoriented and drunk, despite some hours of sleep becomes sleepy again going through each section of the book. Typing with one finger only, he clumsily makes many mistakes which he doesn't take notice of. Finally, he just collapses on top of the typewriter, snoring away. (Kurumi and Manami come home; 8:00pm) Kurumi: Look at that bum, sleeping right on top of the typewriter. He'll have a headache tomorrow. Manami: But that's oniichan! Kurumi: I know. I wonder what's he working on. (pick up book) Ahhh! He writing up his resume. So our brother finally is going to get a job. Let's see what he's got so far. Manami: We really shouldn't be doing this... Kurumi: He didn't think of our feelings when he fibbed to us about snatching our precious diaries. If you're not going to look, then too bad. Manami: No fair! (both twins eyes eagerly at the resume) Kurumi: God! This is terrible. All those spelling mistakes. And what awful form! Manami: He's going make a bad impression for sure! Kurumi: (flips piece of paper back next to the typewriter) Too bad. But this might make good kitty litter paper for Jingoro! Manami: Shouldn't we help him out? Kurumi: After what he's done to us? I'll say let the bum suffer. Let's go upstairs and check on our diaries. You never know if oniichan was telling the truth or not. (As the twins walk upstairs, Manami gives a thoughtful glance back at oniichan.) Manami: ----snippet of resume---- Lyosuke Kaduga Kapan, Rokyo 500 Treen Castle Apts. Tel: 1-203-4592 JOB OBJCTIVE: Entry-level cameramen/journalism job. ECUCATION: Batchelor of Arts, Waseda College, Spring 1994 ... ACTIVITIES: Journilism Club, Pornography Club AWARDS: Honorable Mention: Freelance Magazine 1994 Most Promising Aperateur Photographer 1993 Top Honors: Weseda Photo Shoot 1992 First Prize: Tokypo City Photo Contest 1991 [end of chapter A8; Next is Chapter A9: Initiation!]