R D |< A O H R 1 M E O I - V - by Robert Kwong Completed June 30, 2001 "1 + 1 + 1 may never equal to 2, but 3 + 1 = 2 + 2." Manami Kasuga Act V Final Memories: The End of the Road? Part One Author's Note: I did not realize the enormity of the task before me to complete this final act. Much like the developers of the game Shenmue, I decided to split it up into a final 2 part conclusion. I hope you enjoy this setup and the story. [In the Bay Area] We see Manami in her dorm room, slumped over a typewriter, with a half typewritten piece of paper still in place. We glance over and see a notebook page scribbed with notes and with the headline circled: "Oz paper due tomorrow!" Manami, muttering in her sleep: I think I can, I think I can. (Scene transitions to a large green meadow.) "Wake up, little one! It's time." Manami: Time already? I haven't even finished yet. "Of course we're not finished. We've only completed walking through the orange brick road. Up ahead some more and we get to see the wizard!" Manami: The wizard? What? (She opens her eyes to see a Scarecrow, a Tinperson, and a Lion.) Manami: Eyaa! Who are you? (looks at her clothing) Why am I dressed like this? Scarecrow: Now Dorothy, you must have had a nightmare. We all did. But our dreams will be realized once we see the wizard. Manami: Huhh? You look like my brother Kyosuke! Scarecrow: I do? I'm flattered. But I'm not nearly as smart as your brother. But I hope to be half as smart as you once the wizard grants our wish. Manami: And you Tinman, or I mean Tinperson. You look like Hikaru, another friend I know. She is a dancer. Tinperson: A dancer? I bet she has a lot of style and grace. Unlike my mechanical self, moving monotoneously without feeling or emotion. That's what you do when you have no heart. Manami: And you Lioness! You look like Madoka! But it doesn't make sense! She's the most assertive person I know. Lioness: Please don't point at me! You must be mistakened. I'm afraid now. Let's go back! Scarecrow: No way! We've made it this far. Don't worry Cowardly Lioness. Once you meet the wizard, you'll get that courage you need. Tinperson: Then what are we waiting for? Let's go! Manami: You go ahead. I'll walk behind you all. I need some time to regroup myself. (As the group marches forward towards the Emerald City, with Manami cuddling a cat in her arms) Manami: So I'm stuck in my own dream on the very book I was reading for class. How freaky. But very interesting. This abroad exchange program isn't so bad after all. And at least you're normal, Toto. Or I say Totoro, since now you're a cat instead of a dog in the real story. You look just like my pet cat Jingoro. "Says who?" Manami: You talked! ? Toto: You act like you've never seen strange stuff before, Esper girl! Manami: Hey, I recognize that voice. It sounds like...? Toto: If you really want to know, my former incarnation used to be Yuusaku Hino. Manami: But you're... Toto: Dead? Yes, quite so. I thought I could do better as an animal, so I reincarnated as a cat. But just my luck that it had to be in your dream. Manami; Hey, that's strange. How come you know I'm an ESPer? And how come you're so direct and blunt? The old Yuusaku would have a hard time formulating his thoughts, especially when he's around Hikaru. Toto: I'm dead, y'know. You can't hide nothing from nether-spirits or neko spirits in my case. And besides, I saw what a sap I was, so I decided to be a big, lazy cat who sits on my ass all day pouting with an attitude. Manami; Gee, that's quite a change. But there's still one thing I don't get. How come you're aware of who you really are or once was? Oniichan, Hikaru, and Madoka are acting lock-step in character. Toto: That's cause they're living in their own individual shells, blinded to reality. In fact, they can't understand what I'm saying. All they hear is me meowing to you. Manami: Is that so? Can I help them? Toto: Sure. Get them to the wizard. Now drop me off here. I need to go take a whiz by those poppies before meeting the wiz. Catch up with you later. Manami: Oh! Well okay. Bye now. (Inside the Emerald City) "WHO - SEEKS - AN AUDIENCE - WITH -THE GREAT - AND POWERFUL - WIZARD!?" Manami: Hatta and Komatsu! "What are you talking about? We're the wizard's attendants. Nobody sees the wizard without going through us! Lioness: They look scary! We're better leave now! Tinperson: I'm shaking in my tins! Maybe the lioness is right. Manami: No everyone! We have to finish what we started! We can't stop in the middle. Not now! Not when we're so close. I know it's scary, but I believe we can pull through if we stick together. Scarecrow: I may not know much, but I believe she's right. I'm with her. Tinperson: Me too! I felt nervous before, but suddenly, I don't feel so bad now. Count me in! Manami: And how about you? Lioness: I uhh.....I.... "Meow" Lioness: Eeek!! Manami: Don't worry! That's just Totoro! (picks him up) Lioness: I knew that! I can't leave you all by yourselves. Besides, I don't know what to do if I were by myself alone. Scarecrow: That's the spirit, Lioness. Let's go now to see the Wizard. Komatsu: Ahem! I don't remember letting you see the wizard. He is a busy man. I can't let you be bothering him for trifle things. Hatta: Hai, hai. Very busy. Can go in. No way! "You guys! I'm going to bust you up!" Manami: Huh? (We see a lady dressed with a mask and dressed up in what looks like a wrestling costume!) Manami: Kurumi? What are you doing here? Kurumi: You're mistakened. I'm Glinda, the good witch of justice who will pound some sense into them. Komatsu: Oh, please forgive us, your greatness! Hatta: We did not realize they were friends of yours. (Both fall on their knees and bow) "We're not worthy!" Manami: How bizarre! What a peculiar dream. I wonder who else will pop up? Kurumi: Now move on. You don't want to keep the Wiz man waiting. (They enter through an archway leading into a long, foggy, dark hallway chamber) There, at the end they see a big giant dragon's head! "WHO DARES SEEKS MY ETERNAL GREATNESS?" Lioness: Uhh. I'm so scared! Tinperson: Me too! I'm shaking in all my cylinders! Scarecrow: (stammers) I-I-I.... Manami: You're the wizard? "That I am!", snarls the wizard. "I am the great and powerful wizard who can change into any creature of my choosing. I prefer this form. Now state your business or begone!" Manami: All of us need to ask a favor of you. Seeing that my friends here are in a bit of a shock to meet you, I will speak for them. Scarecrow here wants to have a brain. Tinperson wants a heart. Lioness needs courage, and last, I want to get home. "Is that all? How trivial." Manami: So does that mean you're grant our wishes? "Not exactly. I must test whether you are worthy or not. You must perform a task for me." Manami: Which is what? "I see that you wear the power of the ruby red shoes. So I present a even greater challenge to you. Bring me the staff of the Dragon Queen of the East. She was become too much a peril to this land. Only then, shall I grant thine wishes." Scarecrow: But that's impossible! Everyone knows she's the most evil character in the land! What can we do? "Enough! Now begone and don't return until you give me the staff!" (*POOF!*) They find themselves outside again in the woods. Lioness: We're done for. There's no way we can retrieve the staff. Her dark castle has lots of scary guards! Manami: We mustn't lose hope now! Ah!!! Out of the blue, there comes flying wvyverns! Lioness: Watch out! Manami: Ahh! ... "Manami! Are you alright?" Manami: What? Where am I? "You must have been having a nightmare. You were yelling just now." Manami: I was? Yes, I was. I'm sorry if I scared you. "Don't worry about it. I'm more worried about you." That was my roommate. Dana Kim, also part of the international exchange program from Korea. She was wrapped in a towel, just finishing her shower. "You look like you got your paper done quite in time. " I quickly glanced at my typewriter and amazingly saw my paper was all typed up. Dana: You're good at finishing things at the last minute. Manami: I guess I am. (*Geez! Must be my subconscious Power! typing it up for me again*) She and I shared the same English writing class, but she was here for her studies in Korean history. That was her major. Dana: By the way, picked up our mail yesterday. Forgot to give you this. She handed me a letter, with nippon markings on it. It was from Kurumi. Dana: Must be from your folks back home. Have a good read. I'm getting dressed. Manami: What a coincidence. Was my dream and this letter from home somewhat connected? [Back in Japan] (We see a decrepit Kyosuke, lying on the couch in the Ayukawa mansion, like a bum, staring up at the ceiling fan.) My world was collapsing right before my eyes. I was suffering from extreme paranoia, mostly due to a lack of sleep. My mind pondering the same question. Why did she leave me with our unborn baby on our wedding day? That was the mystery that haunted me till now since the New York affair. Since then, I have done nothing but devote my efforts into finding her. She, of course, was my Madoka. My purpose in life. My light and joy. I found that her absence left a great void in my heart. She was my everything; the cheerful yet gracefully sexy, beguiling figure that dominated my thoughts as her sweet melodies danced merrily through my head. This was the vision I had of her now. It was the only thing keeping me going. I was not in good health or spirits. I looked like a wreck, having lost 20 pounds already. My hair was growing long, sprouting every which way with reckless abandon; my eyes bloodshot, my face haggard and gaunt, further burdened by the gristly beard falling from my chin. I was plain dirty and a sorry sight to see. But I didn't care. Nothing mattered anymore except my Madoka. I wondered where she was. What was she doing? How was she keeping herself alive? Right after her disappearance, I called up everyone I knew. Her parents in Seattle, Hayakawa in Tokyo, her sister in L.A., and countless others in my endless pursuit, but none knew what happened to her. They, of course told me that if she contacted them, that I would be the first person to know. There I was, vegetating in the mansion, waiting for that very call with news of her whereabouts. But there was nothing, and I was nothing now. So here I am now, lying on the couch, staring at the baby grand piano of which she tickled the ivories with those sleek, slender fingers of hers. I had to admit, I was on the verge of madness. Finding your soulmate and then losing her -- I couldn't begin to describe the pain I felt inside. Adding to the pain was news from Master that Genesis was breaking up. Apparently, the concert in Central Park was their last together. How ironic it felt. I didn't want to draw parallels to it. I hoped that Madoka did not leave me to break up with me. And then there was Hatta and Komatsu. They would crash my place and hang out. Hatta and Komatsu would gloat about their success in opening their new venture, the ABCB/Hungry Hatta hangout, attracting not only the junior high and high school students, but also the college crowd as well. They attributed the success to the tie-in of Hatta's extremely popular manga Yurushite Agerie, where he would often draw quick sketches and hand it out as a prize to the patrons. They also were trying to lift my spirits by tempting me to go down to the "swingers" clubs to bring a girl or two back to the love hotel. Of course I declined their invitation. Those guys... but at least they were open about it. For Master, he was having a ball with his band buddies Pan and all those other folks. He also kept in touch with Michiru Michiru for the latest pulse on the jazz scene back in NYC. They were definitely cool, swinging cats. Master's band was currently working on a solemn piece in Madoka's honor. For Kurumi, being separated from Manami has only made her more dangerous! Without Manami to restrain her or keep an eye on her, she enlisted into a wrestling venture and beat out all the top contenders there. Now she was actively wrestling under the psudenonym: Twin Terror. I was not surprised. Wrestling has always been her lifelong ambition ever since she first saw it on TV. Now she had a chance to pursue this opportunity. But the one figure who visited me the most was ojiichan. Quite surprising, given he was always away on vacation most of the time. And the one topic he couldn't get enough of was the encounter with that X-per villaness, Yayoi. He would for different details everyday. There was something odd about his question, like he was hiding something from me on this matter. I couldn't put my finger on it though. Yet all I could do now was lie here, staring up at the wall, wondering what can I do. Madoka use to call me her 'superman', but with all the ESPer powers I have, I was helpless. I must be a moron. (*Doorbell rings*) Kyosuke: Geez, now who could this be now? (*Ding Dong!*) Kyosuke: Yes! I'm coming. (As Kyosuke opens the door, he sees the face of a woman he has not seen in awhile) "Hello Kasuga-san!" Kyosuke: Tamaki-san! [Hokkaido] We see a figure in front of a computer, intently typing away. Hello everyone. Koji Muroke back in my hometown again. I was glad to be back in the comforts of my own home, as opposed to the insane asylum of Ryokurin Ryo, or the rabid pace of New York City. Here, I can get some peace and quiet. Just the thing I need to finish up my role playing game which I had been working on for so long. It has been quite a while since that New York ordeal. I still wondered what really happened on that ship. #2 just told me that there was a shootout and that the Master was lost at sea during the battle. It was really sad. I really thought that he and Hikaru-san would have a future together, with him serving as her white knight to save her from her abduction. But I guess it was not meant to be. It was more along the lines of a tragic ending like Cyrano de Bergerac. Although I could tell he was hiding some very importants details from me. But I guess I would never know now. It was agreed that the New York Project would be my last obligation to the Company. Especially since I had no Master to serve under anymore. I was handsomely rewarded for my services. The whole gang decided to split their own ways. ABC Studios was no more. Hayakawa decided to branch off and start his own gency called "Star Studios". He manage to assume a lot of the accounts the Master had procurred prior. Nagasi was off in her own little world now, behaving badly as a playgirl and drinking up the town. As for #2 and Kaori, they decided to start their own little venture, down in the Shinjuki area. Now I had other concerns of my own. Shijama was off in his chemistry jaunt, trying to perfect the ideal fuel chemical. Taku was back in Koichi with his newly found girlfriend to spend the summer there. As for me, I had a great deal on my mind for the upcoming semester. I had a big decision to make. Whether I want to transfer out of Tokyo University to a college in America. I believe my future was in computer science. And the best computer science schools were currently in the U.S. But more than anything, I wanted to be a game developer. And that was why I was frantically finishing up my rpg. Once I finished, I was planning a trip to the San Francisco Bay Area to visit the local colleges there such as U.C. Berkeley and Stanford. It would also give me a chance to visit my online rpg buddy who was living in the area. He was willing to let me stay at his place while I was over there. But most of all, I get to visit Manami-san and see how she was doing there. Based on the results of the trip, I would make my decision. Whether I want to return back to another semester at Tokyo U and room up with the loonies once more at Ryokurin Ryo and be close to my friends and family, or to enter the great wide new world of America and immerse myself into a totally different, but challenging environment, just like Hikaru-san did. It indeed was a dilemma for me. He picks up the teddy bear lying atop his monitor. Muroke: Whaddya think Kumagarou-kun? [Manami reading the letter] Dear Manami-san, This may seem quite unusual, but I wanted to write to you formally to see how you were doing. I hope you are not too mad at me for secretly entering you in the writing contest. Things going well for you? I hope your family's crisis isn't affecting your studies. As for me, I've been working on my personal project of creating a computer role-playing game. I almost have it done. I hope you are having fun in America. Signed, Koji Muroke Manami: Hmmm, what family crisis is he talking about? I'd better talk to Kurumi about this. [Back in New York] "Blessed Era, please forgive me. I have committed a sin so great that, even if I were to bury myself for all eternity in the soil of this beautiful country, it would not be erased...And yet I continue to commit this sin every day. Even if it meant I would turn into the seaweed that washes onto the shore, I could not stop loving Atlas." I never knew how those simple lines would affect my life so much. And that fateful night, I would never forget. It reaffirmed the feeling which was hidden inside of me so long. But it was too late now. He was gone, having saved me once again, sacrificing himself. I should have been the sacrifice! I would have been so happy to go with him together into that great unknown, swirling vortex to meet our fate. Should we be consumed, so be it. At least we would be together. But I guess nothing ever ends up perfectly. My friends restrained me from that Siren's call of death. All was lost out at sea. Now a great void remained, as if my heart was ripped out. I felt empty, lacking much feeling and emotion. To be a great performer, you have to be a great salesman at times. Sometimes, you have those off-nights where you feel you don't have it, So you have to improvise and "sell" your performance to the audience. To put aside the day's problems in your personal life and perform as a professional. That was the phase I was in now. But as each day passes, it was getting harder and harder to hide the sorrow I felt. I wondered what would have been had I known the truth about Sempai being an ESPer sooner. Everything would have turned out differently. Me being bedazzled by that miracle half-court shot in the gym, it was all a sham. I felt ashamed in a way. I ignored him because of my childish worship of Kyosuke at the time. But second-guessing didn't help now. It was all water under the bridge. But now, my feelings were clear. No ambiguity or conflict inside of me. I knew now that I was not in love with Kyosuke. My inferiority complex to Sempai was gone. The slate was complete clean now for me. No Bruno. No Sugizawa. No Kyosuke. And no Yuusaku. I felt it was time to devote some attention to myself now. I felt it was best right now to stay out of a relationship in the short term. I no longer depended on a man's touch to keep me going. Now, I saw an opportunity for me to start anew. The play 'Atlantean' has enjoyed great success since its debut. Now, they wanted to open a West Coast version of the play over in the Orpheum theater in San Francisco. So I made the unusual request of being transferred there. I decided that I need some separation from this city to reevaluate my priorities. A change of scenary would aid in sorting myself out. I had a hard time convincing my director to let me go. I had an even harder time convincing Natalie to assume the role of the princess on a full time basis. But in the end, they consented. They could see the pain on my face backstage during practices and in-between scenes, so they understood my plight. Today, they had a farewell party for me. Even Allen James bought me a gift, which is quite surprising given how much he was against me joining the cast in the first place. And Norma Jacobs was very gracious with me, telling me that her sister Anita Brussel, whom she visits now everyday at the hospital was making great progress towards reabilitation. Now I was ready to go, with tickets in my hand, staring at all the travel posters that was strewn all over my apartment, ready to bid farewell to the Big Apple, a city which I have called home for the past 5 years now. The memories and experiences here I would keep forever inside of me. [Down at Shinjuki] Kaori: What's the matter with you? #1: Dunno. I feel so frisky! Kaori: You felt frisky everyday ever since our return from NYC! #1: But of course! It's time for a new me. Being through with the agency has liberated me. I'm off the 'venge stuff now. I'm a free man! Kaori: Maybe this detective agency thing wasn't such a hot idea. #1: Sure it is! Took awhile to fix this little baby up to useable condition, but it's finally ready for le grande opening. Kaori: Geez! I did all the work! You just sat there spinning your gun, whistling away, while staring out the window. #1: But of course! Lots of fine ladies out there! And if you look down from the right angle, you can even look down their tops! (*Smack!*) #1: (rubbing the back of his head) What was that for? Kaori: What a lech you've become! You were never like that in the past. Always so cold and indifferent and aloof. Hell, even that lady gave you the nickname of 'Lone Wolf'. But now, you're more like a horny wolf! #1: Yo, I'm making up for lost time. I was on a mission, so I kept to myself. I needed focus. That's a past thing, and now I'm a man in the present. Gotta scoop me up as many of those honeys. They dig the sunglasses thing. Kaori: And that's another thing! I thought you would stop wearing those silly things after we were done with Haroken's operations. #1: Gotta maintain my image. Mr Cool has checked in and won't be checking out anytime soon. Kaori: Well I'm checking out of here now! I need to get some supplies for our new office. You keep watch here for me. #1: Sure can. Three delectable honeys are on their way! They run a cafe nearby and there sisters! Mmmmm, delicious! They'll gonna help me celebrate our debut. Kaori: Urgh! Shudder the thought! (As she walks outside, she opens up her purse and pulls out a nearly empty, unlabeled, small bottle that looks like a sake container. ) Kaori: Could this have something to do with his obnoxious behavior? (*flashback*) (On the plane flight back to Tokyo from New York) Kaori: Where'd you get that? They haven't even passed out the drinks yet. #1: It's a farewell gift from the little tyke, #2. A little pick me up of some sorts. Kaori: You're going to drink it now? #1: Sure. He told me to only drink a teaspoon only at any one time and only for special ocassions when I want to get into the mood, but it must be the kid inside of him. He's a bit too conservative. Given it's a long flight, I could drink up the whole thing, I'll be out the whole trip. Kaori: Do whatever you want. Don't complain to me if you get a hangover. #1: From just one bottle? You've gotta be kidding. Bottoms up! (gulps nearly the whole thing) #1 starts to twitch a bit, but then recedes into his seat, out cold. Kaori: Gawd, that's some pretty strong stuff! Knocked him out in a few seconds. #1 usually can hold his liquor and not show any signs of it. But why does he have a big grin on his face? He hardly has any facial expressions at all. I wonder what he's dreaming about? (*end flashback*) Kaori: Ever since we stepped off the flight into Tokyo, he's been a cassanova since. It must be because of what's inside this bottle. I should get a lab to examine this. [In the Desert] We see a lady is riding a red classic mustang convertible, with the top down, wearing sunglasses and a scarf around her neck. (The radio is playing...) I took my love and I took it down Climbed a mountain and turned around And I saw my reflection in the snow-covered hills 'til the landslide brought it down. Oh, mirror in the sky - What is love? Can the child within my heart rise above? Can I sail the changin'...ocean tides Can I handle the seasons of my life? I don't know...I don't know Well I've been afraid of changin' because I've built my life around you But time makes you bolder, even children get older And I'm getting older too... Was I afraid of change? Has the sands of time embolden me to irrationality? That was what I was pondering these couple of months now. There comes a point in your life where you ask yourself what is the meaning of it all? That was what I was searching for now, on my own. You may ask why do it myself, given my present pregancy condition. I could have had the support of everyone around who loved me. That was a good question that I couldn't even answer. But I knew that I had to find it on my own. You have to wonder that the only way to find answers to your innermost question is to do some soul searching within yourself. To find out what is missing inside of me. Hikaru did so with her life in moving to a foreign land to find myself. I had to do the same myself. So here I am, wandering from town to town, taking odd jobs here and there throughout my travels. Experiencing different locales, attitudes, and outlooks on life. From the northeast, to the south. From the south out into the midwest. Through the plains and into the Rockies. Now all there was left was to go west. Soon now, I would run out of territory to roam and ponder. The real question was whether I dared to look. Did I have the courage to stay out here indefinitely by myself until I found the answer I was looking for? That is hard to say. I could take the easy way out, getting married with Kyosuke, being a housewife, raising the kids and growing old together with a family to raise. That was not a horrible fate for any person. But there is a strong craving inside of me that still has some doubts about that path of life. Would I be satisfied with that? Or would I regret this later? It was that nagging, persistent feeling that manifested itself within me a year back ever since Kyosuke proposed to me. Now it has grown to be a full blown irrationality causing me to run off on my own. And as I ride, with reckless abandon, I feel the sands whip up behind me, reminding me of the passing of time and how precious our existence is. What is to be my destiny? [Null dimension] As I entered through, I saw a great bright flash, and then... I was in freefall, into a deep abyss, falling with no end in sight. Entry into this vast unknown space has nulled my senses. Perhaps it was too late for me. I probably was dead already. Now the portal will never be sealed. I looked up, and then down. But it was all the same. No horizon, no nadir, Nothing at all. Just a blank feeling all around. I thought of all the passing fragments of memory that I have recalled; that which I sought which will be gone from me forever: my childhood, my friends, my school days, my transformation, my dark days, and my final hour. The arduous days have passed by me. Is this what it is like to experience death? I saw imagery of my concealed past circle around me, like falling snowflakes. A hospital, the emergency room, a sense of out of being, and then the reconnection again. Then the coma struck, stuck in a vast dreamland, wandering amid the wastelands of one's creation, The dark ages of my existence. And then the reawakening again, and reconstruction. The new renaissance, relearing the lost arts, rebuilding my intellect, learning new languages, reading the classics, and acquiring new skills. From there, I explored my savagery, fighting to the death and building my killer instinct. And finally, the masquerade, leading a double identity and living two lives in direct dictomy to each other. The ying and yang -- the good and the bad conflicting with each for balance. Fighting and killing through the ranks to gain the trust of the kingpen. All for this one moment of rememberance. Those were my dark days. Then I realized that most of what I believed my life was based on was a lie. I had no wife, and thus I had no reason for revenge. I was, but a mere pawn in the bigger battle among fatalistic forces. I had wasted all my effort for nothing. Except for her. The one whose face was a blur, but slowly came into focus. Yes, I would never forget that face. Much like Helen, whose face launched a thousand ships and started the Trojan War, it was the search for person behind that face, that picture that drove me. To the point of insanity and breakdown. I wish I had found out sooner. But at least I would always remember that face. "You. Talking to oneself are you?" Ryusei: Who said that? "No speech is needed. Our thoughts are communicated to each other." Ryusei:(looks down) I've stopped falling. But how? There is no ground here. "The same place you have been all along. Fall or no fall, it's all the same." Ryusei: You speak in riddles. Where am I now? "You are in another realm now." Ryusei: Where are you now? "Behind you, above you, below you, and all around." (A figure starts to materialize.) Ryusei:You're that old man,...the monk in Hong Kong. But why are you here? "I may appear like so, but that is not who I am. I assume many guises. I chose a familiar form." Ryusei: But why? "This space have remained undisturbed for a millenium. You are my first visitor in a long time." Ryusei: Don't play games with me! If this is the underworld, then let me know! And if you're the devil, then show your true self. There's nothing to hide anymore. "As you wish it." (The old monk transforms into a shining, golden Buddha) Ryusei: You....it's really you. the Buddha. "I am but one of many and nothing more. But not the one you've envisioned." This must be the after-life then. I must have perished in my attempts to seal the rupture. "Nooooo. (booms the thought). This is Nether. You are neither here nor there." Ryusei: I can't understand what you're saying. "Few beings can ever understand. " Ryusei: Then why am I here? Am I to be judged? "Cruel sacrifice of your soul has Fate you choose. Why must the same road you traverse? " Ryusei: I fail to see what I've done wrong. "Look. Former reincarnations of you. (We see various scenes of life passing through, of the Morotoni age as a bodyguard, of the Tokungawa period as an insurrectionist, and of the Meiji period as a sword wielding samurai with a crimson garb. But the most intriguing scene is where a guy jumps off somewhere. curiously, the final scene shows a one-handed man, dressed in ancient chinese traditional garb, jumping off a mountain top.) Ryusei: It must be my nature. I can't help but repeat the same mistakes. "The cycle must stop to continue on. Otherwise, both of you will be separated forever." Ryusei: You mean Hikaru? How? Tell me nothing will happen to her. "Look on." (We now see images of Hikaru and her former reincarnations of herself, ending with a woman dressed only in kimono white.) "Where it all began, where it all end." Ryusei: When? How? You must save her! "Fate will decide. Fate and you." Ryusei: Me? But how? "You must return from where you once came from. One final chance. Remember. Only when both assume the same fate will the cycle of sorrow be broken." Ryusei: (muttering) But how? How do I return? (A woman's voice) "Are you okay sir?" (Ryusei comes to from his sleep and sees a beautiful blonde maiden's face staring right back at him. ) Ryusei: Woah. Where am I? Is this heaven? "(*giggles*). No silly. You are in the land of the Eloysian fields. You are in my room. I hiding you out. I can't let my father know about you!" Ryusei: But my heart...(looks down to see it bandaged up) "Nana patched up your wound. You just rest here for now. I have to go. I'll lock the door so no one can come in. I'll bring food later for you. Bye bye." (we see the girl, skipping out, wearing a white dress, and securely locking a rather ornate looking oak door.) Ryusei: Is this another dimension? [Ayukawa mansion] Kyosuke: (starts to clear up the empty beer cans on the table) I'm sorry for the mess around here. I'm also sorry for my disheveled appeareance. Aso Tamaki: (laughs) That's okay. Kysouke: Please sit down. You've become a big celebrity now, as the Channel 2 evening news anchor. Aso Tamaki: Thank you. It is certainly on a much larger scale than I expected. Shiori Hayakawa has been a great help as my personal assistant. Kyosuke: Ah yes. She's Mitsuru's wife now. So what do I owe the pleasure of this visit? Aso Tamaki: I have a favor to ask of you, if you don't mind. It would depend on your schedule, to see if you have time. Kyosuke: Umm, doesn't seem to be anything in the immediate present. What is your request? Aso Tamaki: Remember when we were working together at that cable station, that I was working on a side project, helping a professor here do his research? I even left you a copy to read it. Kyosuke: Oh yeah...Gomen, but I totally forgot about it. I'll get around to reading it through. Aso Tamaki: My request is regarding that. You know that this year is the 50th anniversary of the end of World War II. Part of this research project involves traveling overseas to Las Vegas to interview one of the Japanese soldiers there who was part of that conflict of World War II. I've corresponded with him over this past year and finally he has agreed to be interviewd. His name is Osamu Ozawa, who comes from a distinguished family line of samurai before. He was in the air-core division. He was even a kamikaze pilot, but his plane was damaged during takeoff. Days afterward, the war had ended. Later he took up odd jobs here and there, including being a former TV director in Osaka. Now, he's spending his days teaching art of Shoto-kan karate. I would go myself, but I have this job now, so I would not have the time to take off for this. So I'm hoping you can help me fill in. Kyosuke: I'm flattered by the offer, but what exactly can I do? Aso Tamaki: I got the feeling that you were more of the photojournalist type who wanted to tackle the hard issues. I thought this would be a worthwhile endeavor for you. Kyosuke: But what can I do? I don't even know what questions to ask him? Aso Tamaki: You'll know. Once you read that paper, you will be flowing with questions. I'll leave it all to you. And don't worry about the equipment and travel accomdations. It will be all takened care of for you. Once you finish the interview, you need to drop the footage off in another location to another associate professor who is working on this as well in California. Kyosuke: Okay. I'll think about it. I'll let you know soon. Aso Tamaki: That all I can ask for. By the way, where's is that sweet lady I see you often with? Kyosuke: Oh, umm....she's away on a long trip right now. I'm by myself. Aso Tamaki: Well, give my regards to her. Kysouke: I will. Thank you for coming by. (As Aso leaves...) Kysouke: Geez! Now where did I put that paper.... [At the Kasuga Residence] Kurumi: Stay Jingoro! Jingoro: Bwah! Ojiichan: No, he won't go anywhere. Too fat and big. Need some exercise, he does. Kurumi: Good idea! How about this? (uses the Power! to float and swing Jingoro in a circle, going faster and faster and...) Ojiichan: Not so fast! Kurumi; Well ok. (she lets her hand down, and Jingoro stops on a dime and then is dropped on the floor!) Jingoro: (stars flying above his head) Kazuya: Geez! I'm surprised that cat has survived so long! Kurumi: 'course! Cat has nine lives. Kazuya: Yeah, and I bet he's on his 8.99th life now. Kurumi: Like you could do better? Jingoro became jumbo size when we left him in your care on our trip. Kazuya: Are you kidding? I hardly fed him at all.,,Ooops! *Manami: You guys really! Can even care for yourselves, much less a cat! Kurumi: Akane! Stop kidding around! Akane: How'd you guess it was me? Kurumi: You have to know that me and Manami are twins. We have that psychic bond. Akane: That I'll have to think of a better transformation to fool you guys next time. Ojiichan: Enough games. Everyone here I called for important meeting. Obaachan: Oi, Oi! Kazuya: Yeah ojiichan. What's the big thing? Ojiichan: You know Madoka has been missing for some time. So we must do something to help my hapless grandson. Akane: You mean, like trick him? Like this? (transforms into a gorgeous, sexy Madoka!) Ojiichan: No, no. Not like that! Akane: Well, whatever. (transforms back) Ojiichan: We must combine our powers to search for her. Kurumi: Why didn't you say so before? Ojiichan: One problem. We need all the powers in our ESPer family. But Manami-chan is not here. Kurumi: Ooops! Kazuya: What now? Kurumi: I totally forgot to tell her about the situation! Akane: Ah, that's just like you! Kazuya: But how does combining our powers do anything at all? Ojiichan: Madoka-chan has the precious talisman. It also can be used to locate the wearer. But only limited range. I wanted to wait for Manami to return home after her studies, but Kysouke's condition is getting worse. We need to try something. Kazuya: But where is the slob now? Don't we need his Power! as well? Ojiichan: We do and we do not. You must be of full mind and spirit in order to perform this ceremony. Very dangerous. If not full concentration, you break the bond and the Power! would go out of control. All would be hurt badly. So best not to include him for now. (*ring ring!*) Kurumi: I got it! I got it! Mosh Moshi! "Hello? Kurumi?" Kurumi: Yeah? Oh, it's you sis! Manami; Lucky guess. Now what is going on? Kurumi: What do you mean? Manami: I got this letter from my friend that there was some crisis in our family. Kurumi: Ummm, yeah. Manami: So? What is it? Kurumi: It seems like Madoka is missing. Manami: Missing? You mean she was abducted? Kurumi: No, no. I mean, she like wandered off from oniichan, and now we don't know where she is! Manami: Wandered off? How can this happen? When did this happen? Kurumi: Right before we came back to Japan. Like right before we're suppose to leave New York City. Manami; Why didn't you tell me sooner? Kurumi: Uhhh, ...I didn't want to worry you. That's right. Hey, guess what? The whole family is here. Say hi guys! All: "Hi Manami-chan!" Manami: Oh. Hi Everyone. Now Kurumi, don't get off the subject... Kurumi: We're doing something right now and we need your help. So....ummm... we all going to fly over to your location to do some type of ceremony to help find her, being that she's somewhere in America. So we'll be coming over real soon. See ya. Kazuya: Hey, what the hell? What trip? Ojiichan: Hmm. Another vacation trip for us. Not a bad idea, right obaachan? Obaachan: Oi, oi! Kurumi: Then it's settled! We're all going to meet with Manami in California! [The room] (We see Ryusei still lying peacefully on the bed.) I stared around the room. It reminded me of a castle, but with blackened slabs of stone. A simple setup. There seemed to be a chest at the front base of the bed. There was a table to the side, with a lone candle atop it. There were some pictues of landscapes hanging. It had a medieval feel to it. Many hours had passed since she left. Many things raced through my head. Did I travel back 500 years in time? And what place was I in? And who was this girl I saw? "My name is Wowena, if you're that curious?" Ryusei: Who said that? "(*giggle*) I did silly!" (The maiden slowly materializes in front of him.) Ryusei: H-h-how did you do that? Wowena: Do what? Ryusei: Everything! Wowena: Reading your thoughts was simple. "Jumping" into here unseen and then slowly appearing, that's hard! Ryusei: You mean you have the Power!? Wowena: Power!? Only those with the "Gift!" gets to play around. Ryusei: The "Gift!"? Wowena: That's what Nana calls it. Ryusei: Where is this Nana person. I need to speak with...Urrrh. (clutches his heart) Wowena: You're still weak. You shouldn't talk now. Tomorrow, we'll go see my Nana and she'll answer your questions. [At Shijama's house attic] We see Shijama Zumi in a white lab suit, pouring chemicals in beakers as usual, and scribbling some formula down. "Hey, Shijama! How are you doing?" Shijama: Oh, hi Muroke. Muroke: How's your research into that super fuel? Shijama: Ohh, it's okay. I'm getting closer to make a breakthrough any day now. So whacha here for? Muroke: Oh, just wanted to return your suitcase. Remember we had a switcharoo? Shijama: Oh, yeah. Where's your suitcase...? Muroke: You already returned it to my mom when you came back. Shijama: Oh yeah. So I did. Muroke: I'll be going overseas soon. Shijama: Where to? Muroke: Northern California. Shijama: Honto? Muroke: Yes. I'm scouting the area. Shijama: That's nice. Still thinking about "defecting" to the U.S. Muroke: It's still on my mind. Shijama: Whatever you decide, let me know. If you plan on staying, I can let the guys at the dorm know. Muroke: Sure. Is there anything you want me to get you over there? Shijama: Now that you mention it, you can pick me up some Star Trek the Next Generation tapes. As many as you can get. Muroke: Anything else? Shijama: Nah. I hope both of us find the thing we've been striving for before the end of this summer. Muroke: I know what you mean. I'll let you get back to your work. Shijama: Okay. By the way, do you know what happened to my love potion 55? I thought I put it somewhere in the lab, but I can't find it. Muroke: Ummm, I found it in your suitcase in New York, so I kinda gave it away! Shijama: You what! I was saving that for a hot date! Muroke: Yeah, right, give me a break. Shijama: I guess you're right. Whose the victim? Muroke: He,he he. It's the old curmudgeon, #1. I gave it to him to spice up his life a bit. "Hello. Is Zumi-san here?" (We see a girl, wearing glasses and a lab coat as well.) Muroke: Eh? You weren't lying after all. Shijama: (whispers) Shhh! I'm just helping her with her summer coursework. So don't get any ideas! Muroke: I won't if you won't. He he! I'll just excuse myself and leave you two alone. Ja ne! [On the Stanford campus] We see Manami sitting on the grass, reading a book, as students are walking by, and a radio playing in the background, playing an oldies station. "...Paperback writer, Paperback writer!" She was reading a book titled "A Catcher in the Rye." What a lost cause. A troubled Holden Caufield, who is deeply disturbed, mad at the whole world. I wonder if Madoka is feeling the same way. Was that the reason she left my oniichan? What could she be thinking? But what do I know? Perhaps she felt the pressure after so many years, balancing her friendship with Hikaru with her true feelings for oniichan. Maybe that got to her. Being in a relationship presents a whole new set of variables. Maybe she discovered some of oniichan's disgusting habits and that got to her. It could be anything. Did I know what it felt like to be in a relationship? I had dated several times, but that was mostly for fun, double dating with Kurumi. I can't say I had been in a serious relationship. And then there was the little boy blue. Previously known as #2 and later as Muroke Koji. Introverted, young child prodigy, and very innocent. This year, he will turn 18, sophmore in college. I was finishing up my senior year and wondering if I should go for my masters' degree. And to think he was responsible for me being here. All because of that writing contest he entered me in. I never knew I had it in me. Reading is one thing but writing...I found it to be my cup of tea. For through writing, you wield the power to create. You can create worlds of wonder or write short, simple stories of tried and true themes. Oh what merriment it is to create something you can call your own. That is the power of writing. So now I always now keep a small notebook at my side, where I could scribble on. The dream I had coupled with the letter and the news I got from Kurumi, I felt an inspiration to write something. So I started to write... "1 + 1 + 1 may not equal to 2, but 3 + 1 = 2 + 2." [In the room] I was dreaming, at least I thought I was. I dreamt I was a cat. I was looking down at the pyramids. They look familiar like the Egyptian pyramids, but somehow a bit different. They were floating in the air! But they seemed to be dwarfed by what seemed to be a super pyramid. A hundred times larger. So big that you could only see the top of it, looking like an inverted 'V'. I landed atop the zenith point of that super pyramid, as 4 other smaller pyramids circles around it. As I did, I felt myself being teleported inside. The inner saunctum was an awe-inspiring sight. Lining the walls were all sorts of gadgetry, with an array of mult-colored lights. But the centerpiece was a vertical chamber which resembled more like a vertical lifepod. All the machiney, like spider arms intersected with that chamber. Surrounding the chamber were various stones with a particular glow. I landed in the arms of a young lady. She cuddled me in her arms. "JJ, you're a bad cat! You know you shouldn't be wandering outside. People can see you!" Who was this lady that held me? I felt the pressure of her breasts squeezed against me. "Feeling better now?" That was another voice. I then came to my senses as I felt something snuggle up to me behind my back. Ryusei: Eya! "What's wrong?" Ryusei: This! Why are you sleeping here with me Wowena? Wowena: This is my bed. I can sleep in my own bed. Ryusei: But not with me in it! Wowena: (*giggle*) You're funny. Ryusei: Ahem. Did we do anything? Wowena: Like what? Ryusei: Oh nothing. What time is it? Wowena: Time? What is time? Ryusei: You mean you don't have anything to keep track of time and dates? Wowena: Dates? Time? I don't understand. Ryusei: Forget it. What do you eat around here? Wowena: We eat fish. Fish is good for you. Ryusei: I'm sure it is. Can I have some? Wowena: Okay. I'll take you to the kitchen. She just grabbed me by the hand, while she was still in her white nightgown, heading straight for the door. I thought we were going to crash into it but... we went straight through it! As if we were ghosts. Ryusei: How did you do that? Wowena: It's my secret. Tee hee! Now let's go. Wowena explodes down the hall, dragging Ryusei along! Ryusei: Arghhhhhhh! [Walking back home] "Hello Koji-san!" Muroke: Hi Hino-ji-san! "Here. Have a peach. They're in bloom this season." I would typically visit Yuusaku Hino's grandfather from time to time. The incident in high school made a huge impression on me. It was that night which my friend Yuusaku died in a fiery heap over the cliffs of Hokkaido. After having witness that horrific event, a bunch of us were sent to the hospital for some minor cuts and bruises. It was there, I heard those loud wailing from one of the nearby rooms. I was curious, so I wandered near the door and peered through the small window. I could hear the old man rant about 'his peach boy grandson'. Later that week, at the funeral, I saw that very same old man! Then it struck me that he must be Yuusaku's grandfather. I felt saddened by his loss. After the ceremony, he came by and thanked me for attending to pay my final respects, as one of Yuusaku's few friends. Later in the fall as school started, as I rode my bike past the Hino's residence along the way, I would notice the old man working in the garden. Rumor has it that a miracle saved him from a heart attack, and now he was taking steps to live a better life. One day, I stopped by along the way and chatted with him. I'm not sure what compelled me to do that. I was quite surprised he recognized me. I found during my brief conversations that he was quite interesting. So during the school year, I would make it a habit of visiting him every so often to hear him tell his stories as a fisherman and the Japan of olden days. So in a way, I took the place of Yuusaku, becoming his surrogate grandson. I was more than happy to oblige him. Yuusaku was a loyal friend, and that was because he had a good family upbringing. "Is the peach tasty?" Muroke: Yes, it is. Thank you. "Are you studying very hard?" Muroke: Yes, indeed sir. Tokyo University is certainly very challenging. "Good. Every person should get an education. I wasn't so lucky, but that was a different time. " Muroke: You shouldn't discount yourself just because you're a fisherman. Every person has their abilities. Some might not be as glamourous as others, but it's important nonetheless. "(*hearty laugh*) You are still an innocent boy. But your words do cheer this old man's heart." Muroke: This peach tree seems quite big. "It is indeed. I planted it the year I found Yuu-kun." Muroke: Found? "Yes. My grandson wasn't of Hino flesh and blood. I found him along the riverbank, wrapped only in red blanket. Muroke: Honto? "Yes. Earlier, my daughter and son in law learned that they couldn't conceive children from the doctor. It was quite devasting. So when I found that baby, I knew it must be a gift from the gods. A Hino peach boy miracle. Naturally, we adopted him into our family. Muroke: Did Yuusaku ever know of his true origins? "I cannot tell. I tried to tell him the truth when I was bedridden, but he might have thought I was speaking jibberish. " Muroke: Thank you for sharing that with me. I just dropped by to let you know that I'm going away on a trip. I might consider studying abroad. "That's good news! You should always broaden your horizons." (We hear a baby's cry from the house) Muroke: Whose the baby? "That must be Minami-chan. My daughter and son in law are in town this week. She's the second miracle that have happened to us. About a month after Yuusaku's passing, my daughter had her freak pregnancy. The doctors could not explain it. But I know what happened. Yuusaku must be watching over our family from the great beyond. Every day that passes is a blessing for me. Muroke: That's great! I'm happy for you and your family. I have to be going. "As do I. Good travels to you, Muroke-chan. " [Outside ABCB/Hungry Hatta's] Akane: Are you sure this is a good idea? Kurumi: Yep. Hatta and Komatsu are loaded! They'll pay for our trip. Akane: But wouldn't they want something in return? Kurumi: I'm sure they do. But we can pay them back. Akane: I don't want to even think about what they want for payback. On second thoughts, you better ask alone. It feels creepy asking them for anything. Kurumi: Oh come on! They're not so bad! And if they misbehave, I'll handle them. (pounds her fist.) Now let's go! (inside, we see the remnants of the old ABCB, now adjoining to the new burger eatery section. We also see scantily clad waitresses dressed in the guise of Yurushite Agerite manga.) We see Hatta busy at work drawing, while Komatsu was jabbering away on the cell phone. Komatsu: You want us to attend the Expo? Yep we'll make it. We got it all takened care of. You can count on us sir! Yes, thank you! Ja! Hatta: Who was that? Komatsu: The editor of Shonen Jump! He wants to do a promotional gig. Hatta: Where? Komatsu: Internationally. In the United States. Hatta: United States? Is that too far away? Komatsu: Nah. Don't worry! It'll be fine. Hatta: You must have been pulling a fast one over him. We haven't even prepared yet! Komatsu: Trust me. We can make it. Have I ever lied to you? Hatta: Yes, you have. But what the hell. When is it? Komatsu: Oh, it'll happen in a little over a week in a place called Los Angeles. After that, we go to another place San Diego 2 weeks after that. Hatta: That's not enough time! Komatsu: Hatta, think of the possibilities! We can do anything when money and woman are involved. Once we go international, we'll make a boatload of moola! And then the women will be crawing all over us! I've also heard the woman there are bigger in every way. Kurumi: Ahem! Excuse me guys! Hatta: Oh, it's the twins! Komatsu: You numbskull! They ain't the twins! They're cousins. In fact, their dimensions are 35...oops! Kurumi: Hey! How the hell you know our dimensions? Akane: Yeah. I would like to know that too. (pounds her fist into her palm) Komatsu: Now let's not go ballistic here in this establishment for no reason. Kurumi: Fine. We came to talk to you about another matter. Komatsu: Well then, fine ladies. Shoot away. I'm all ears. Kurumi: I overheard you mentioning that you were going over to America. Komatsu: Yeah, for business. Some expo in California. We have a booth booked already for us. Trouble is, we haven't prepared our stuff yet. Akane: Then we might be able to help you. Hatta: Like how? Kurumi: We can accompany you and be your assistants. Akane: Say what? Komatsu: That sounds like a fine idea for you fine ladies. I can picture it now! You can man the booth while we go oggle the honeys. I mean - doing our business. Kurumi: Whatever. But on one condition. Komatsu: What is that? Kurumi: Akane doesn't go anywhere without her brother. And you have to pay all of our expenses to get there. Komatsu: But of course! We'll even pay for your meals and eat you up. I mean eat with you. Kurumi: Then it's settled. Let's go Akane! Akane: (whispering) What did you just do? Are you sure it is safe to be in the company of those lecherous wolves? Kurumi: We'll only be helping them set up and watch their booth. What's the worst that can happen? [Back at the Ayuakwa Mansion] I was in the den, scrounging around. And there I saw it. The red straw hat. The thing that started it all. The very first gift I got from Madoka. Red was the appropriate color to fit her vibrant personality and flowing self. I found it foolish and funny how I thought it was a big red flying saucer the first time I saw it circling through the air, round and round. Now only she was running circles in my head. I wondered what would have happened had I not caught that hat as I traversed the 99.5 steps up at our spot. Perhaps our paths wouldn't have crossed. It was inconceivable, but possible. How one special moment could spark a whole lifetime of memories. But now, that is all I have left here. A momento of that happy memory. As I lifted the red straw hat up, I found a stack of papers below. It was the papers that Aso-san had given me a long time ago before she left that cable station. I was meaning to get around reading it, but I didn't have time. Now, I had time on my hands. I had not given her my decision yet. Before I could, I needed to research my subject. And so, there I was, wearing my red straw hat, staring at the large stack of papers. But after reading the first few pages, I couldn't believe my eyes! [Back to the mysterious land] We were gliding effortlessly through the hallway. without a sound, and down into the kitchen. There, it looked quite spartan. A few cupboards, a large wood-burning stove, and a small table. Wowena: Some fish for you! I was saving it for the cat, but you can have it. (A plate comes floating and down on the table.) Wowena: Here, let me heat it up for you. (the plate starts to shake, and we see steam rising out of the fish) Ryusei: Thank you. I'm deathly hungry. At this point, I'll eat anything. (digs into the food) (we hear giggling) Ryusei: What's so funny? Wowena: You have this funny mark in the middle of your eyes. Ryusei: I do? Wowena: See? I saw the reflection of the mirror on the wall. Indeed, there was a mark, a scar, a shape resembling a 'V' letter around my forehead. Ryusei: So I do. I forgot about my scar. So how did you find me? Wowena: I was helping Nana back to the sanctuary. We saw you lying on the side of the trail, wounded badly. You looked like a injured animal. Nana fixed you up a little, but I took you home and took care of you. Ryusei: That you did. It looks like she can help me answer some of my questions. When are we going to see your Nana? Wowena: Now! (skips around the table) [At the Channel 2 station] (Aso Tamaki has just finished her newscast for the day.) "Aso, a gentleman is waiting to talk to you." Aso Tamaki: Who is he? "He calls himself Kasuga Kyosuke. I believe he was in the news some months back." Aso Tamaki: I see. Where is he now? "He's waiting for you in your office now." (As Aso enters, Kyosuke abruptly rises up from his chair.) Kyosuke: What's the big idea? Aso Tamaki: What are you talking about? Kyosuke: This crap! (slams the stack of papers on her desk) Japan starting the war in the Pacific? Japanese atrocities and cruelty throughout the conquered territories of the Empire. And the biggest lie of them all! Some Nanking massacre? This is highly defamatory towards our country! Aso Tamaki: I'm sorry you feel that way, but sometimes, you need courage to go against the majority to stand up for what you believe in. Kyosuke: What are you talking about? The Japanese were the noble ones in the war against the aggressor imperialists. There was no war between Japan and the rest of Asia. Our country was trying to unite all of Asia against the onslaught of the Western powers. It was the United States that were the cruel ones, using the A-bomb on us twice! Aso Tamaki: I certainly can't disagree with you there, but over there, they publish that very fact in their texts. And I can understand why you have this patriotic viewpoint. I've read the same history books as you have. They claim the 'conflict' was a noble cause for the betterment of all of Asia. A conflict to unite all of Asia as you put it. But unfortunately, they left out many vital details that paint a different picture. There is no nobility in subjecting people to another's rule by force and tortue. Kyosuke: Nothing like that ever happened. Our country could not be capable of that. Aso Tamaki: Pity. Muroboshi will be rolling in his spirit Kyosuke: What are you talking about? Aso Tamaki: The author of the definitive guide of code and honor for all warriors. He would be ashamed at the cowardly conduct of a regime who not only justified their jingoistic actions, but also hide the fact that they conducted mass genocide. Kysouke: How can this be? The genocide at Nanking cannot possibly be true. Why are you on a mission to sling our great country's reputation through the mud? Are you shooting for that big story to boost your career? Aso Tamaki: I resent that and you should know better than that. But I don't blame you. A great many people in this great country of ours shares a similar opinion to yours. But I can tell you this. I have nothing to gain from this. You and I can argue over rhetoric on whether these atrocities occured or whether there existed a massacre in Nanking or not but I let you form your own judgement for yourself. Here. Kyosuke: What is this? Aso Tamaki: These are pictures takened by a German missionary during the first few days of the Japanese occupation of Nanking. No words, no written text, just pictures from an impartial bystander who had no stake in this. The pictures don't lie, do they? Kyosuke: I am a photographer, so I should know. Aso Tamaki: Then you shall know. You must be warned firsthand about the graphic nature of these pictures. Kyosuke: I understand. My blood is not that thin. (Here, we see very disturbing, blood-curdling pictures of decapitation by a samurai sword, heads on sticks, and ditches with rows of bodies inside ...) Kyosuke: These pictures. They must be fake! I don't believe Japanese soldiers are capable of doing this. Aso Tamaki: I couldn't believe it myself until I saw it with my own eyes. Kyosuke: What are you trying to prove with these pictures? Or are you trying to humiliate us Japanese? Aso Tamaki: No; You may not see it, but I'm trying to help our people. Kyosuke: How is exposing these past atrocities going to help anything? Aso Tamaki: You of all people should know. Or have you forgotten what is happening in Bosnia? Kysouke: Why does this have to do with Bosnia? Aso Tamaki; Why did you go to Bosnia in the first place? Was it to become a famous photographer? Kyosuke: No! Of course not! I went in, risking my life to expose the truth. To show the atrocities that were being committed that were hidden by the prevailing government and... Kyosuke suddently stops in mid-sentence. "Oh." Aso Tamaki; Now I think you are starting to realize my position in this. Kyosuke: I'm slowly beginning to understand now. Aso Tamaki: Good. That is all I ask for. Without bias or prejudice, you form your own opinions from the compilation of research that this professor has done. I respect him a lot, despite the constant death threats he gets from zealots who call him a traitor to our country. Kyosuke: Why are you so keen on helping him conduct his research on this matter? Aso Tamaki: Remember I told you how I wanted to be a newswoman when I grew up? It was all because of the first Japanese woman to do war correspondence in Vietnam. That was my one big influence. Because of it, I took the time to do research on the conflict when I was in college. Did you know that the war was a black mark to the Americans on the other side? They too don't cover the conflict in too much detail in their history books, since it was very embarrasing to them. But they have other avenues to explore the conflict through different eyes. Most notably on something they call public broadcast stations where they air documentaries. But over here, it's different. To speak negatively on the whole World War II matter is considered taboo. I would have in the dark on this matter as well, blissfully ignorant had I not run across this during my Vietnam research. One thing led to another and I hooked up with this professor who shed some more light for me. I realized that once I started it, I had to finish it. For I believe a good journalist always drives for the truth to the end. Kyosuke: No,...something's not right. I don't feel right doing this. This is our country you're talking about. And despite what you may feel is right, I don't want to have a hand in dishonoring our nation. I'm sorry. I can't do this for you. I have to go now. (Kyosuke rushes out of the office) Aso Tamaki: I'm sorry too. [On the reservation] I had spent a week there with the tribe there. Many a night before dusk, I would sit in the wide open desert air, looking straight ahead and up in the sunset, as far as the eye can see, the cactii off to the side, amid the howling coyotes. But nothing. No inspiration. No revelation. I remembered the time I was in this type of setting before, about a year back. In the Yucatan penisula. Where I came here in aid of Hikaru. I could remember the fear and the excitement. When I battled Anita atop the pyramids, I felt an adrenaline rush. I felt that same feeling again on the ship during the big confrontation. It was intoxicating. My system felt alive again. It let me realize that indeed something was missing. Did I lust for that rush? Was that the thing I was missing? Or was it something more. Shaman: You looked troubled, my child. Madoka: I am. I've been here for many days, in an attempt to find the answers I have been to many places in search for what I've been looking for. I thought being in this community and experiencing nature would help me find the way. But my mind is still clouded. Shaman: We are all children of the earth. You are welcome to stay as long as you like to find the answers you are looking for. Madoka: What do you know? Shaman: I am, but a guide for my people. Madoka: You are indeed very wise and fortunate. You know your role already. To serve your people. Shaman: You must be true to yourself. And the other. (looks down at her stomach) Madoka: I understand. Thank you for your offer. I will consider it. Shaman: May you find what is troubling you ,young one, old soul. [On the trails] (Ryusei and the fair maiden walk along the blackened. chaffed roads, amid the barren landscape, with no vegetation in sight.) Ryusei: Why is this place so dark? Wowena: Nana says its always been like that. She calls me her little sprite. Ryusei: That's nice, but I'm more interested in what happened to all the plants and trees here. It looks like a barren wasteland. "The reason is because there is no sun." Ryusei: Did you say that? Wowena: You heard it too! Nana is talking in your head too? Wowena: (points) There's Nana! (We see an old lady, hunched over, walking with a cane, wearing all black, with a hood over her head.) Nana: You must be the stranger. Ryusei: And you must be the Nana that Wowena was talking about. I've been seeking you for quite some time now. Nana: I know. You have questions. I can read your mind like a book. Excuse the intrusion in your mind just now. It is far easier to communicate in a telepathic fashion, but I haven't lost the ability to speak. Ryusei: So where are we know? In this place with no time and date? Nana: This land we live here was once known as Oiloniis . It is but a shadow of its former glory. Wowena: New name new name is Eloysian, Eloysian. Nana: Yes child. It is. The Eloysian fields. A fanciful name for this darkened land. Ryusei: Are you human? Or spirits? Nana: (chuckles) You made an old woman smile. We are like regular beings. We live and expire like all living creatures. See. (grabs a hold of his hand) I am of flesh and blood. Ryusei: But this girl here has exhibited some extradinary abilities that are quite unbelievable. I mean, we both went right through a door together! Wowena: Wasn't easy Nana! He is quite heavy to move! Nana: She is of a special breed who possess the "Gift." As such, we are known as the "Gifters". Wowena, among others like her, are the only "flowers" left in this world. However, she is a wild flower at best. Wowena: A flower? What's a flower? Ryusei: How unfortuate. How can such a fate befall on this world.? Nana: Come inside and I can tell you stranger. [At ABCB's] Master: Kyosuke! Good of you to join us! Pan and the boys are in the joint tonite. The usual for you? Kyosuke: Thanks Master; make it a double. Master: You won't be drinking your troubles away, are you? Kyosuke: No, no, don't worry about that. Say, Master, what do you think about the war? Master: You mean war in general? My position is against war. Nothin' good ever comes out of war. Kyosuke: I didn't mean it that way...ah, it doesn't matter no more... Master: But that's just my opinion. (in walks Mitsuru Hayakawa, dressed in his typical fine white clothes.) Kyosuke: What the hell are you doing here Hayakawa? Hayakawa: Shiori tells me that you caused quite a stir down at the station today. Apparently a shouting match with one of the anchors? Kyosuke: So what if I did? What's it do you? Hayakawa: You should realize that Aso Tamaki is one of my clients now. Kysouke: She is? Hayakawa: Hai! Part of the Star Studios family. And if you to cause her trouble, you will have to answer to me! Kyosuke: Listen. We just had a difference of opinion on a particular sensitive subject. Nothing more. Haykawa: I suppose the tables are turned on you. Kyosuke: What do you mean? Hayakawa: I saw the anxiety on Madoka's face for the time period you were absent so long, and I see that same look on your face as well. You must be worried sick about her. I would too if I had to be away from my precious Shiori for any length of time. I emphasize with your plight. So if you please, don't give Tamaki-san any more grief than it's worth. Kyosuke: Don't worry; I have no intention of bothering her again. (Another figure walks in to the door.) Hayakawa: 'Izzy man!' Glad you can make it. 'Izzy': Always the pleasure. And you are here. Kyosuke: Do I know you? 'Izzy': Yes and no. You've met my drunken self more times than I care to mention. Kyosuke: You do look vaguely familiar. Hayakawa: So, speaking on the business, have you completed the story? 'Izzy': Yes. The screenplay is already done. Hayakawa: Care to reveal some details? 'Izzy': It involves a young Japanese girl who goes to New York to pursue her dreams making fine jewelry. There, she falls in love with an older man, one who is only identifable through his rolex watch. Later though, they break up and she return back home to Japan where she meets this curious stranger at the airport. There, her real journey begins. Hayakawa: Sounds like it has potential. Pass me the copy and I'll pass it to the producers post haste. 'Izzy': I need to polish up a few details, especially the title. Give me a few days. Hayakawa: Whatever works for you. 'Izzy': By the way, please send my thanks to your friend. Kyosuke: My friend? 'Izzy': I believe she mentioned you a couple of times we chatted. She is the inspiration for this screenplay. She let me in on elaborate details of her life in New York, of which I've tried to incorporate into this story. Kyosuke: Sure. If I ever get in contact with her, I'll let you know. 'Izzy': Arigatou. (We see Master now, playing with Pan and the rest of his band part of the piece titled: Madoka #1) Kyosuke: Madoka, where are you? Are you letting me have a taste of my own medicine for abandoning you during my endeavor in Bosnia? [The sanctuary] (We see rows of seats, much like what you would see in a church.) (However, in the front is a different sight. ) It looked eerily similar to the chamber I saw in my dream. But without the interconnecting tubes. Wowena had disappeared. She was probably playing in the other rooms. Nana: Sit down stranger. This is my humble abode. Ryusei: Why is this place so decrepit? Nana: This great assembly hall is slowly deteriorating. No one here can maintain it. A day will come where it will be all gone. Ryusei: Where should I start with my questions? Nana: Begin where ever you like. Or where I should begin is to give you a history of this land. There are few who have traversed here. Your visit has broken the montony that has been constant throughout. You are in the land with no sun, no stars, no sky. Ironic, since our people once came from the sky from far beyond. Without the sun, we have no vegetation; just cold blackened volcanic ashened ground. Without the stars as our guide, there is no way to measure the passing of time. As such, we must age slowly, or we can't tell anymore. I'm afraid to imagine how much time has really passed. Ryusei: If you have none of those things, how can you survive? Nana: A wise observation. Our main source of fuel here is the blackened coal reserves that is mined here. We use it for heating and light. Our food is supplied from the fishes in the underwater seas. Lastly, our air is supplied from the breakdown of the "black water". Ryusei: Black water? Nana: One of the great mysteries of this land. Up in the volcanic peaks, the molten hot lava clashes with the black water. That reaction somehow creates the air we breathe. The black water also blocks the lava from flowing down and destroying our villages. Ryusei: How come you still know of the sun and of plants and flowers? Nana: Silly child. When I was younger, I used to bask and play in the meadows. Those were the golden days of our people. That was before the Great Falling. Ryusei: So, is this the land of the ESPers or Xpers? Or I suppose those with the Power!, ...I mean the Gift! live here? Nana: We Gifters are not the only peoples here. There is another who plague us. They call themselves the Worlons. A barbaric race they are. They serve to appease their deity they call Droon, a hideous fire-breathing, flying lizard. They raid our villages riding on lower Droons. Ryusei: How did this happen? Nana: How? A catastrophic event in the past, long, long ago. Our civilization seeded its influence throughout the lands. Our deciples built momuments in our honor. But the lust for power led to The Great Falling. Ryusei: I had a peculiar dream on my first night here. I saw all these pyramids all around. And then this one giant pyramid. Are those the momuments you speak of? Nana: Highly probable stranger. Our former land of Oiloniis was known as the floating continent. Ryusei: So, was Oiloniis in actuality a spaceship? A giant spaceship? Nana: Spaceship? That term is foreign for me. Ryusei: Hmm, then could it fly? Nana: The tale I heard from my mama was that Oiloniis had the ability to traverse great distances in the air. But it was damaged during the great migration. That is why instead, it floated on a great body of water in another plane. Ryusei: From what you're describing, it sounds a lot like the tale of Atlantis. Nana: I have not heard of that tale. Ryusei: Forget it. Can you describe what happened in the Great Falling? Nana: Oiloniis was powered by the Great Crystals which stored great amounts of power to fuel the development of our land, including the construction of the lower Pyramids. It also served as our main and only source of power to keep the continent afloat. But alas, it all ended. The power struggle led to the sabotage of our power source. It created a great imbalance,leading to the destruction of the Great Crystals. A rift was created, engulfing the epicenter and most of the land around it. This is the land you see now. Before you lies the remnants where the power was channeled from the Great Crystals. Ryusei: So this rift might have made time and space unstable. That could explain such myteries as why the Atlantic is so stormy and violent and the existence of the Bermuda triangle. Nana: Again, you speak in a strange tongue stranger. Ryusei: I'm sorry. I'm thinking of my own dimension's superstitions. But why is that chamber there right in the middle? It looks like it can house a human being inside. Nana: That is where the power was processed. Only those with the Gift! and those whose blood hailed from from the royal ancient family had the ultimate power of chanelling the energy of the crystals into energy we can use. It was a psycho kinetic conversion. Thus, only a few possess that ability and were dubbed the title of the "Channelers". Ryusei: So were you a "Channeler"? Nana: (chuckles) I am highly Gifted!, but alas, no, I did not have that ability. But my sister did. But that is a sad tale. Ryusei: How come? Nana: She was the greatest of Channelers our history has ever known, and with her abilities, our civilization reached its zenith. Under her power, the 5 great pyramids were created; each with a different style. However, with great ability comes great ambition. She quarreled with our father. She wanted to extend the hegemeny of Oillonis to all the lands beyond. She felt we were the greatest of creatures on that plane and thus should rule all of it. My father wanted to keep to ourselves and not interfere. She defied him, so secretly plotted to launch the 5 pyramids into the far reaches. She succeeded, with her followers inside the pryamids to spread the word of Oiloniis. But in doing so, she destabilized the power of the Great Crystals, creating a great imbalance. There was this violent reaction, and soon, we realized that our land was about to be dissolve into the depths below. Even she was powerless to do anything. So she ran away, jumping into the sea. That was the last I saw of her. Ryusei: What was her name? Nana: Vovoi. Ryusei: So what happened afterwards? Nana: We tried to rescue as many of our people as possible. Some of our loyal followers did escape. But soon, we realized it would be impossible. So my father and mother and all those strong with the Gift! joined together in a group communion to join their powers to keep our land from sinking. Ryusei: Did it work? Nana: In a way, it did, but not in the way it was intended. Through the combination of their powers, it destabilized the space around us, creating the rift. The effect transported a great number of our people, including me here to this new dimension of where we reside. But those involved in the ritual were left behind to finish off the ceremony, including my father and mother. I am the last remnant of our royal bloodline. Ryusei: What about Wowena? Nana: She is but one of many orphans which I care for. She is the wildest one of the bunch. But also, the most talented. Ryusei: So how did you find me? Nana: Wowena spotted you while we were taking our walk. You were lying prone, unconscious, and wounded heavily. Ryusei: So you did heal my wounds! Nana: Yes. You would not be here speaking if I did not. I initially did not want to help you, for I feared you were one of the Worlons. Ryusei: But what changed your mind? Nana: I can feel some of the power of the Gift! coarsing through your veins. No Worlon possess that ability. Stranger how your Gift! feels noticeably different from the others. Nonetheless, I spared and healed you with my Gift!. Ryusei: Which brings me to my most important question. Is there a way to return back to my own world? Nana: That depends where you come from. Ryusei: I entered this land through a portal of some sort from a place we call Earth. Or through a self-induced "rift" as you would call it. Nana: Self-induced? Who would be mad enough to attempt such a foolish thing? Ryusei: How history repeats itself. Your people fell due to corrupt and lust for power, and the people in my world has succombed to the same fate, trying to open the rift to bring in those people who possess the Gift! in a bid to conquer my world. Nana: How true, how true. There is no easy answer to your question stranger. My feeling is that you perhaps are doomed to stay in this forsaken land forever. Ryusei: Forever? Wowena: Yah! Me and the stranger and play on and on and on! (Wowena materializes out of hiding) Ryusei: [Secret XIA Headquarters in Japan] Kanuka Clancy enters the debriefing room, dressed in a smart black dress, with a short hair doo, carrying her black briefcase. I was nearing the end of this lengthly, arduous investigation. An extensive, long debriefing process of the case relating to the activities of the golden triangle triad Dragon clan. Spanning across all of the continents, specializing in poaching all the treasures of the world: rare animal horns, skins, and extracts; ancient artifacts of antiquity. But their main funding staple was hallucinagenic drugs known as the angel dust. Leading the way was the master criminal, the Chameleon who never left a trace from his world-reknown heists. Later revealed to be Ryusei Haroken, a talent agent in-cognito. In conclusion, the final revelation proved to be the Black Dragon leader, pulling the strings from behind the scenes. Originally suspected it to be Goro Shimazaki, but later proved to be a fashion model named simply Y. As for other information from Inspector Jackson, the man working undercover for me, he could not explain the Dragon Clan headquarter switch although later investigation showed that that particular building level had two separate, distinct sections with two access entrances through an auxillary elevator shaft which was switchable, of which he went through. I was among the handful few who had knowledge of this secret, clandestine triad. Known only by the mark of the dragon, just flashing its emblem would inspire fear into its adherents. But their greatest secret was the X-per connection. The powers that enabled the triad to coduct its operations for hundreds of years. They were all intertwined together. You may ask what is the X-per? Simply put, they are those beings who possess extra powers beyond the capabilities of a normal being. Scientifically, it is the extra dna sequences that allows them to magnify and control the magnetic field that all matter emit. With this ability, it allows them to levitate objects by breaking down the gravitic field surounding the object. They also possess the ability to teleport by subatomically altering the time-space around their bodies to another location. Some humans may accidentally acquire a subset of these powers through mutation occuring genetically or artifically. We term these enhanced abilities ESP. That is why they have some of the abilities described, including the ability to see the future or read other people's minds. However, none have the main ability of the X-per: the ability to change shape and form. The final distinction is that while a mutated human may possess some of the extra DNA sequences, the X-per contains all of them. In terms of my investigation of the subjects titled Kasuga1 and Kasuga2, it is my belief that these are merely mutated humans rather than true X-pers, despite the fact the first, younger subject contains a significant amount of extra DNA sequences far above a normal person with ESP, but below the prerequiste total. Given I do not have data on the older Kasuga subject, but given their relation, it is my belief that he too does not possess the complete sequences. Tracing their family histories, there have been no accounts of any inteferences or incidents into govermental or political affairs and activities. I am of the opinion that we may safely remove them off our watchlist for now. As the bulk of my investigation has come to an end, remanants of the Clan still linger. The cleanup of the Blue, Yellow, and the Whie Dragon's domains of influence is under way and nearly complete. However, the Red Dragon was the one remaining force still remaining, having conviently escaped the trap. I was entrusted to root out the final pieces of the Clan. There was only one man I knew who could help me in that endeavor. But before I could consult for his help, I needed to know what would be the next step of the Red Dragon. [At the old remnants of the ABC Studios] (It looks like the studios is being ransacked, with men, dressed in black and wearing sunglasses carrying stuff) (In the old office, a scantily dressed woman is sitting on the black leather sofa still reminaing) #3, #4, #5, #6: Oww! Our backs are hurting! Nagasi: Shut up, you utterly worthless, incompetant fools! We need to clear out all of the studios equipment by tonight! Now get moving and move some more furniture you pathetic fools! My life was ruined! Curse my luck! It was all Ryu-baby's fault! Who told him to kiss off the face of this earth and leave this mess to me? Now all the creditors are hounding me for their money! That was the beginning of my problems when I came back. My sugar daddy was busted in Thailand! A raid by Interpol no doubt. With him locked away, I had no money coming my way. That damn tax collector Ryoko Itakura! Now she was hunting me down for estate taxes! Those IRS agents are the worst blood suckers. They took me for everything Ryusei ever had. Now my goons were loading everything away from the studio to liquidate and get the money to pay for the tax bill! Now I was persona non grata! Nobody wants to be associated with me, not even my old Yakuza contacts. They consider me "poison" in their eyes. I wasn't better in my own right. My own assets were slowly draining away. No more splurging on shopping sprees. No more boy toy fun. My means to survive were dwindling down. I had to sell nearly all my outfits and shoes! Can you imagine the horror? Oh my gawd, my shoes..... Why does this have to happen to me? (Nagasi bursts out crying) "Excuse me for interrupting you. May I have a word with you?" (Nagasi looks up and sees a man dressed in temple clothing and a girl with pinkish hair) Nagasi: Temple boy: Are you Tezuka Nagisa? Nagasi: Oh, you got the wrong person. I don't know of anyone by that name. Absolutely, positively not. Pink hair: Honto? Are you sure? Nagasi: Yes I'm sure. Temple boy: Cross your heart and hope to die sure? Nagasi; Yet bet I'm sure! I am NA - GA - SI. Pink hair: Are you sure you're not Shinobu's oneechan? Have you heard of that name before? Shinobu? Shinobu, Shinobu, Shinobu!? Nagasi: Arggh! (hands on both ears) SHIN - NO -BUUUU!!! Don't mention that name again!!! Temple boy: So you are Nagisa. Allow us to introduce ourselves. Nagasi: I know who you goons are! Mitsuru Ikeda, public enemy #1. And Shun Kisaragi, public enemy #2. You must been sent from the devil boy himself to torment me! Mitsuru: You seem to be in a lot of distress. You might be need of our services at the temple. Nagasi: You Ikeda cretin! Preaching your salvation crap to me! Well, that's not going to work on me, I tell you! Shun: Geez! Talk about being uptight! At least show some respect for your oneechan! Nagasi: Why should I? Mitsuru: Don't you know what today is? It's the anniversary of his passing. Shun: Yeah. We thought that this year, you would join us for a cermony at the temple to offer our respects. Nagasi: (cackles an evil, hysterical laugh) You think I'm going to fall for that? Mitsuru: Fall for what? Nagasi: I may be slow, but I'm not stupid. It's another one of your tricks! Your practical jokes. I can smell it! You're not going to pull a fast one over me. Mitsuru: I wish I was joking, but I'm not. A year to this day, Shinobu jumped from the pier into Tokyo harbor. What compelled him to do so, I don't know. He had his whole future ahead of him. Shun: Please. It would mean a lot if you can participate as well. Nagasi: What the hell? Nothing is left for me. I'll participate in your little charade, just for old times' sake. Let's roll in the Lincoln Contiental. Let you bozos ride in it at least once before I sell it. Shun: (to Mitsuru) Boy, she is really bitter! Are you sure this was a good idea? Mitsuru: She needs to purge all the negativity she feels towards Shinobu before she can attain closure. We shall help her. (A week later...) I had packed my bags and was ready to go. I had flew to Tokyo a few days before to give my regards to Shun-san of Ryokurin Ryo. He was still trying to lobby me to stay put here in Japan and assume manager of the place they call "Greenwood." I politely let him know that he would have my decision within the month just before the term resumed again. Right at the terminal, right when I was getting ready to check in, lo and behold, I bump into the family of misfits. "Hey, it's the pipsqueak!" Muroke: Oh no! That's Manami's roughhousing sister. And the rest of her family! Ojiichan: Traveling too? Where to? Muroke: I'm going to fly out to San Francisco. Kazuya: I bet sunglasses guy is off to see Manami! Akane: Kazuya! Don't be an annoying brat! Kazuya: Bleah! (makes a face) I'm taller than him! Ojiichan: Honto? We go there too. But later. We going to Disneyland! Akane: He means Los Angeles. We have some business to finish up. "Ladies, ladies! Don't forget us!" (We see Hatta and Komatsu rushing in, pushing a cart and carrying their gear.) Kurumi: It's about time you guys got here! Always waiting till the last minute. The flight leaves in 15 minutes, you bozos! Komatsu: Hey, you're our assistants! You're suppose to be helping us carry the stuff! Akane: But you can't bring all that stuff on the plane as carry on! You can only bring aboard 2 bags. The rest have to be checked in. Hatta: But that's on the other side! We won't make it in time! Kurumi: You guys! Do I have to do everything? Fine. (Kurumi grabs cart and starts pushing it at tremendous speeds, ducking traffic left and right.) Hatta: Gawd! She's scary! Komatsu: But so kawaii! (they both start to drool) Akane: Ewww! Keep that away from me! "JAL Flight number 50 to San Francisco now boarding." Muroke: My flight's boarding now. Best of travels to you all. [At Channel 2 station] (We see Aso Tamaki finishing up another newscast. She walks back and sees Kyosuke standing outside her office. He is looking quite different, clean-shavened and cleaned up.) Aso Tamaki: You've come back. Are you here to give me an earful again? Kyosuke: No. Despite my objections to the subject material, I decided to take you up on your offer. Aso Tamaki: I don't understand. If you're so against it, why are you accepting it? Kyosuke: Gomen for being so headstrong. Strong subject material is not my strong suit. I have to learn to put aside my personal biases, especially for such a controversial subject as this. That should be the job of a photojournalist. To be objective as much as possible. I shouldn't forget that, but sometimes, I let my emotions get in the way. And I still think you're dead wrong. But what do you and I know? I'm willing to give this a chance. I wish to talk to this person myself and get the facts and story straight for myself. Aso Tamaki: Thank you for at least entertaining this endeavor. I'll fill you in right now on who you have to meet and where to drop the interview to. Please. We'll talk in my office. [On the plane] (Muroke is getting situated in his seat.) It was going to be a long flight. It didn't help that "Attila the Hun", Manami's twin roughneck sister Kurumi was going to the same destination as well. To pass away the time, I decided to dive right into Manami's story that I submitted for her. MMM (*Author's note: The characters and story here are purely fictional. Any resemblance is purely coincidental. And now, the story:) (At the Green Castle Detective Agency) (We see the PI, leaned back in his black swivel chair, his brown suede fedora hat angled draped over his face, his legs up on the cofee-stained desk, with a toothpick wiggling in the left corner of his mouth) It had been a slow day at the office -- real slow; so slow that a slug would travel faster than the bead of sweat on my brow. For days now, it has been like this, a long while since my last good paying gig. My bills were piling up like cold, mushy flapjacks; my creditors hounding me like a ruthless pack of hyenas. But so what. I just sat there, alone in my dimly lit office, with daggers of light shimmering through my faded, moth-ridden blinds. A voice, crackling from the intercom, interrupted my lull. It was Mami, my secretary. "Hey Boss! There's a sweet-looking dame here looking to see you. I instantly stirred from my chair. "A dame, huh? Well I'll be the judge of that. Send her right in. On second thoughts, give me a minute." I straightened up my trenchcoat, brushed my scruffy chin, and flipped my fedora up. I quickly sank down the shot of gin on my desk, hastily depositing the glass back to its original spot. That did the trick. I was ready for the unexpected. The door creaked as it was swung wide open. In sauntered this lady who was a sight for sore eyes! She came in, head down, looking straight into the timbers of the floor, her straw hat hiding most of her facial features. I didn't want to be rude, so like a gentleman, I glanced at her from the corner of my eye. I still got an eyeful, discerning that she was decked out in a snappy rose-colored outfit which exposed all the best parts: her nice long shapely legs which looked like it could go on to Toledo, her long, shiny black hair spilling out of her straw hat like jets of black gold, with a black-meshed veil hanging down, but revealing her alluring green eyes. The staid, cold poluted air of my office was suddenly aromated by her perfume, which smelled deliciously expensive and was her white squined-covered purse which was pure Gucci. I could tell she was loaded, by the way she looked, the way she walked, the way she presented herself. Yeah, I know what you are saying. It doesn't take a dopey PI to figure that out. Any bozo off the street could have picked that up. Still, I sensed an air of mystery about her, and a big payday for me. She looked around and saw me lying back in my chair, looking aloof. Despite being dazzled by her charms and looks, I kept it cool. That was my job. (*Ahem*) (In a deep, sexy voice) "Excuse me, but I'm looking for a Mr Karson, the private eye." "Who wants to know?" "A widow, searching for answers." I slowly roused myself up, taking my legs off the table one my one, and laying my fedora next to the empty gin bottle. "And who might you be?" "Ascott is the name...Maljorie Ascott. " "And what joe referred me to you?" "Roman Rousseau told me you could be trusted into helping me." Roman was the head honcho at the casinos. He was the bigshot in town, running all the rackets. We had this unwritten, mutual understanding. He kept out of my business, and I kept out of his. Why'd he hook me up with this broad, I don't know. "Ahh...him. I reckon that makes it okay. Please to make your acquaintance maam. Please have a seat." "Before I begin, do you mind if I light up?" "As a matter of fact, I do mind. But what you do is your own business. I'm not one to get in the way of my prospective clients. Go right ahead." She opened a gold cigarette case with a mysterious green dragon symbol in the middle. Another fancy trinket she had. It was getting more and more interesting. "Allow me." She nodded her head in approval and took a slow long puff before exhaling. (A ring of smoke cirlces by) "Feeling better now?" "Much." "I am not one to lecture. Everyone nowadays have some sort of poison they indulge in. Mine's gin. Would you care for a drink?" "I fancy I do, if you don't mind. Bloody Mary." "As you wish." I walked over to the bar, mulling her request, making a drink that fits her outfit. She could have painted the town red and then some. "Here you go." "Thank you." "Not too many veiled faces like you ever come by here. I'm not private eye, but I am a private investigator Kit Karson. What can I do for you?" I was intrigued by this shapely figure. My eyes stayed fixed on her, mesmurized by those sweet curves which spun me round and round as she sat down. Any other man would be eating out of her hand by now, but I sat there calm and reserved. That's what I come to expect from this business. You never know who to trust. For all I know, this vixen could be a psychopathic killer. With her though, I felt good vibes. She puffed away some more before crossing her legs, inching her skirt higher and higher. The tension and the heat generated could have melted any ordinary rube. Yet I maintained my cool. "I think we're all comforable now. Let's talk. What services of mine do you require of me." "Mr Karson..." "Please. Everyone I know calls me Kit." "If you insist, then Kit it is. This is my story. It all started with a series of blackmail letters sent to my father several months ago. My father is a important figure in this town, as his reputation precedes him as the 'General'." "Yes. I know all about him. A national, reknown, military hero. 5 star decorated veteran who turned his expertise towards the milary hi-tech complex. Founder of Ascott Industries or A.I. Currently in retirement and seclusion." "Very good. At first, we thought the letters were a prank. After all, we do receive many chain letters asking our family for money. But blackmail,... that was another matter. But my father informed me to make nothing of it. He had nothing to hide. So for the most part, we ignored the demands made in those letters." "So now what?" "I believe the blackmail request is genuine now." "What leads you to that conclusion?" "I received this yesterday." (Removes a yellow 8x11 manilla envelope.) "Here. See for yourself." I inspected the envelope, analyzing it front and back before opening it. Inside was a photograph, of a very nude and explicit pose of a young lady in a very uncompromising pose. "The person you see in this photograph is my younger sister Hillary. Apparently, the blackmailer is threatening to send this photo and others to the tabloids unless we meet his demand of $50 G's. Otherwise, our family name will be ruined by this scandal." "So what do you need me for? Just pay up and be done with it. You're family has the cash. Should be pocket change for you folks." "It is not as simple as you make it out to be. You see, my old man doesn't even know about this photo. I've been handling all his affairs ever since his stroke. In fact, he only knows of the first blackmail letter. I've takened care of the rest ever since. (takes a sip of her drink) "And?..." "I cannot draw from my family assets unless I get my old man's approval. And he would suspect something if I did ask; despite his stroke, he's still a cagy, cunning fella. You wouldn't normally hit up on your old man for $50 G's unless you're in big trouble. "I can see how he might get suspicious. But how about your own money or connections? A lady like you should know plenty of powerful bigwigs in this town." "I have been asking around. But the money is due in two days. Even with loans from my friends, I can only come up with $25 G's. "So what do you want me to do?" "I want you to recover the negatives of all the pictures before this despicable cur has his way." "What makes you think I come cheap?" "You may not be cheap, but you're the best, so I've been told. And right now I need a sure thing." "Don't believe everything you hear doll face. I'm good, but not that good. But hearing this, I've decided to take the case. My fees are $500 a day plus expenses. Sounds okay to you? "Yes, that's fine. Here is $1000 now up front for the two days." My eyes instantly lit up and I saw those hundred dollar bills she procurred from that purse. I kept myself from slobbering like an idiot. "Thanks. Now, doll face. I would like to stop by this afternoon at your location to ask a few questions, especially of your sister. Which brings me to this question. What's her side of the story? How did she get herself into this mess?" "You have to understand this Kit. My sister is innocent but ditzy. She's quite naive of the ways of the world and is susceptible to being takened advantage of. About a week ago, she attended a gala party down in the casinos. She got herself all boozed up and went away with some unsavory figure. I found her at the Cat's Eye bar the next morning. When I asked her what happened, she just laughed and gigled and kept mumbling about "those pretty little dollies. I want those pretty golden-haired dollies. "Is that all?" "She did have this handkerchief on her when I found her. She does not buy this brand." It was while linen handkerchief with a monogrammed 'M'. "Ok then. That'll be all. I'll be at your place at 2. See you in a bit." I escorted her, watching her as she swaggered out the joint. I looked out the through the blinds as she drove off in a black Bently. "Say boss! Where do I put these?" Kit: Yo! What happened to Mami? "As if you can't tell boss, she's done for the day! Noontime is lunchtime. Here yer go boss! More bills." (piles it on his desk) "When are we getting paid?" Kit: Soon, hon. I can feel this could be the big one. "I believe it when I see the greenbacks. This hot dame client must be loaded." "Who told you? "Mami did. Like you weren't scoping out that broad's assets. She could light up all of uptown. So don't blow it buster! If you need me, give me a holler! I'm doing my nails." That was Kami, my other assistant. They were sisters and alternated shifts, so they could work a real part-time job. They weren't the sharpest broads, but they sure knew how to put a guy in his place. Kami was the one with the attitude. Time to hit the streets for some up and up. Two days only - today and tomorrow to make it an open and shut case. It was a Friday, so I figure the blackmailer would be spilling the beans one day before the papers some out on Monday. This caled for some serious PI work. Next stop, Ravenwood, in the downtown area, haven for the unmentionables . There was this one broad, Trudy was her name, that worked the streets down there. Judging from these pictures, this was a real perv at work, getting his jollies. Trudy would know who to direct me to find this scumbag. I came up the usual corner on Eden and Wilder, where she shopped her goods. She gave me this look as I walked up to her. "What it er'll be Kitty? " "I'm not here for the service, if that's what you're asking." "'course not buster. You're too cheap for even that trenchcoat." "I love to banter with you some more doll, but that's not what I came here for. I need to make a go around at a client's place, so needed to scope some info first. Where would one go to get for a primo pervert photographer around here?" "Dirty pictures huh? Why? Interested in changing professions and be a real private "dick"? "I sooner eat my hat first. So you know or don't know?" "I might know something, then again I might not. A girl's gotta eat, y'know." "This motivate you enough? (slips her a $20) " "Yeah, for now. (sticks the money between her cleavage) It's coming back to me now, as if I was peering into a crystal ball..." "You can skip the theatrics. I don't want my fortune told." "You're no fun. Cheap men are like that. The one to talk to is Wicked Pete Jenkins. He runs the adult bookstore just 5 blocks up from here. He is the man to peddle your porno. He would know all the hot shot amateur snappers. Problem is, he ain't open till real late." "Got it dollface. Save some of that loving for me." "Slip me a Franklin next time and then we'll talk. Till that happens, all you're getting is lip service from me. " That Trudy was a real wise-ass who knew how to manipulate the situation to her own advantage. But she was a survivor. You need that hard edge in order to make it in this part of town. Quite a change from Downtown to Uptown. The General lived all the way up in the green hills. I rode up to this majestic mansion that would make the President drool with envy. A sparkling, pearly-white citadel, with white-washed, brick walls, and a polished, stainless, steel gate smack in the middle. As I drove up to it with my pathetic excuse for a clunker, the gates opened up for me automatically. Very high-class stuff for this high-end job. "Mr Karson. I'm glad you were able to make it out here." "Miss Ascott, the pleasure is mine. Now where is this sister of yours?" "She is in the Arboretum around the back of the house. She is alone." "Where are you going?" "I have to keep the General occupied while you talk to her. I don't want him to suspect a thing." I nodded in agreement and made my way to this greenhouse. I approached it, feeling the humid, hot air, leaking through. Through the transparent glass partitions, I saw the girl in pictures. She was stooped over, staring at this orange monarch butterfly, perched atop some poppies. She was another yummy treat for the eyes. Two inches shorter than her sister, but still a buxom blonde dangling those dangerous curves. "Hi there. Did you come to see me?" Kit: Yes. As a matter of fact I did. Your sister sent me. "I like you." Kit: Who doesn't like a man with a hat? "He, he. You're funny. Wanna be my friend?" Kit: Depends on what you can tell me. "I can tell you my name is Hillary. What's yours?" Kit: Joe. Joe Blow. "I like that name. Very amusing." Kit: You are too. Now listen. Let's be serious for a moment. What can you tell me about these pictures? (pulls the manilla packet and shows her the picture) "I was being a bad girl then. Really bad." Kit: Who took these pictures of you? "Who? The drinky drink man." Kit: What kind of answer is that? "Honest. I ain't fibbing. I got free drinks from him all night. He said I looked pretty." Kit: Does this drinky man have a name? "Oh yes. A big, long, long name. Maxmillian. So long. I told him that. So I gave him a nickname. Maxi. He didn't like that at all! He he!" Kit: So this bozo knocked you up and took advantage of the situation by taking these pictures of you. Where'd it go down? "Why should I tell you? It's my secret." Kit: Listen. It's important you tell me. I don't have much time to play with you. So snap out of this and tell me where you guys went. "You're being mean! I'm not talking to you anymore. Go away Joe Blow!" She blew me off. Getting rough with her didn't help. Talking with her gave me a headache as large as the Grand Canyon. I was getting outta here fast, making due with the leads I got. Until... "You there sonny! Who are you?" It was the General sitting in his wheelchair. He didn't look as bad as I thought, his long white hair tied up in a ponytail and wearing a purple robe. Right behind him was Maljorie. Kit: No one of importance sir. "I'll be the judge of that. " "Father, he's from the county tax assessor." "Is he?" Kit: That I am sir. I've surveyed your property. I've done my work here already. I'll be on my way. "Not so fast. What is your estimate sonny boy?" Kit: (grasping the manilla envelope) From these numbers, you will be paying less tax. "That's wonderful. For a change, the government is doing me a favor. Care to stay for a drink? My treat. Kit: That's kind of you sir, but I best be leaving now before I take up any more of your time. I have to file these papers before the offices close shop. I sauntered back into my car, nodding back at Maljorie, playing into her little charade as she wheeled the General back into the house. That was too close for my stubby skin. I felt sorry for Maljorie. She had a dimwit of a sister to watch over and the crippled General to care for. She was taking it upon herself to manage the affairs of the proud Ascott family. But something was not right. This gnawing feeling eating up inside it, my PI instincts flaring up like a bonfire. I couldn't put my finger on it though. I mulled over these cryptic clues, which seemed as clear as hieroglyphics. All this talk was just a front. I aim to get down real business -- the meat of the matter when I hook up with Wicked Pete, porn peddler. //put pan as the character so we have wicked peter pan!. Right out of the corner of my eye, a funeral black vette, with tinted windows, sped by me like a screaming bat out of hell. Must be in a big hurry. I wonder why. I approached the sleeze-infested row of shops to see a squad of coppers outside Wicked Pete's. Something was up. "Why you here, you shoeless bum?" Kit: I was about to ask you the same thing, Mack. Mack was the local DA in town. Mostly a figurehead for public viewing, but manages to investigate some crimes when he has time. He and I were rivals, so we don't see eye to eye on many things, especially our day jobs. Mack: Whatever it is, stay clear. A homicide is on the scene. Kit: Whose the cadaver? Mack: I wish it was your neck I was digging up. Too bad the poor sap was the owner. Gunshot wound to the heart. Poor Pete bit the bullet. That piece of info hit me like a ton of bricks. My main lead was dead, and the cops were crawling all over the place. No time to pout. I knew with a dame like Maljorie involved, the case would be far from being open and shut. I still had the cash on me. And in this town, money talks. When I turned my back towards my car, I caught a glimpse of that black vette up the block speeding away. It was too much of a coincidence. Whoever was in that car knew something. And I was aiming to find out. I kept a safe distance from him, not wanting to arouse his suspicion. He weaved through towards the industrial part of town, down in the oil refinery factory. It was getting harder to pick him up amid the blackened haze of the sludge spilling from the smokestacks. That car finally stopped, after 20 minutes, in front of a run-down gas station. Out popped a tough guy, with big brawny shoulders that looked like they've carried a few dead bodies before. Looked like one of Rousseau's hitmen. Was he the goon that done in Pete? He entered the store inside. It seems the place was abandoned, with the cobwebs and spiders. I hated spiders. But no matter. I sneaked up in front to catch a glimpse of him entering the backroom and then slamming the door. I heard shouting next. I made my way around the back for a better listen. "I'm gonna blow your brains out if you don't tell me where you stashed the film!" "Please spare a lowlife like me! I just take dirty pictures. Ain't no crime in that." "I eat scum like you for lunch! Now spill it! Or else your blood will be dripping on the floorboards like poor old Wicked Pete!" "You killed him?" "So what if I did? Dead men can't talk no more. " "I told you all I know. Honest." "You expect me to believe you now? " "I did sell him the film roll! Maybe he sold it to someone else afterwards." "In that case, I don't have any need for you. Goodbye, little man!" A shot rang out. Then another. And another. This was bad...real bad. As I got up and reached for my pistol, I felt a sharp blow struck at the base of my skull. It was lights out as the world blacked out on me.... [-=*End ACT V Part One*=-]