R D |< A O H R _ _ /_\ I I I I I _ \_/ M E O I - V - by Robert Kwong Completed 1 1 2 0 0 0 0 4 "I may not be young forever, but I will forever be young at heart." A. Madoka & H. Hiyama "A man's got to know his limitations and know when is the last hurrah." Ryo S. aka #1 "My heart may be shot, but my precious memories remain." M. Koji "Time is long forgotten, but in our final moment, everything is understood." T. Kasuga "In a blink of an eye, everything comes full circle." SK Master ********************************************************************* Act V Final Memories: Final Dreams Part Five ********************************************************************* [In the room] Kyosuke gasps in horror as he sees another person's face reflecting back at him! It is that of Kurumi! Kyosuke: Kurumi! What did you do to me!? (in the dojo) Kazuya: Not a word to my sis! Or else she's gonna kill me! Kurumi: Yeah. Besides, oniichan is gonna get clobbered as himself. With me in it, he has a fighting chance. Kazuya: How does the body feel? Kurumi: Very smelly and yucky! Oniichan been eating too many twinkies. (does a few thrusts) Arms are still good. I can imagine pounding my fists into that guy's stomach! Kazuya: Easy! Remember the rule! No Power! unless you're in big trouble. Here comes my sis. Boy, would she get a kick out of this! She can change forms, but changing bodies a different story. (*flashback*) Kurumi: You have that Power!? Kazuya: Of course. Mind transference. But it has to involve physical contact, with me in the middle. Kurumi: But how's that gonna work? Kazuya: My normal Power! is that if I knock heads with the person, I change into his body and he does into mine. For this extra bit to work, your head and oniichan's head must impact with mine at the same time. Got it? Kurumi: Urh, you want to do a knock-a-head? Kazuya: Yeah, something like that. I place my head right next to his, and you come and knock my head. Got it! Kurumi: Hai, hai. Here goes! (*Bang!*) (*end flashback*) Akane: Yo cousin! Ready to be pummeled in this silly, pugilistic fight? (Kyosuke nods nervously and walks away) Akane: What's up with him? Kazuya: Uhh, he's prepared himself for the fight and is totally focused. Akane: I see. At least he's taking it seriously instead of whining like his usual self. [Back in hangover city] I had a dream. I was tipsy, but I was sure I saw him. That face that eluded me. That glint of that little boy who was being bullied. The one whom my cold, bitter heart showed mercy to as a flight of fancy. I thought I really saw him this time. As I extended out my hand... (*alarm sound*) Hikaru: Big ow! My head is splitting! Oh no, I reek of alcohol. I overdid it this time. Was it all just my imagination? [In the Sunset District] That was quite a night yesterday. Trebor left after the play to escort Dana to the train station, leaving me and Manami-chan to tag along with this woman who we found was a new-found acquaintance of Hiyama-san. At the restaurant, we finally got to be reunited with Hikaru. But it wasn't what I expected. Manami was sick the whole time, retreating to the restroom several times during the night. Hikaru and her friend were busy imbibing liquor like there was no tomorrow. When both of them passed out, I had to call my friend Trebor to help transport them home. Being a minor (I was still 17), I legally could not drink, so I was the only sober one at the table. I was beginning to wonder whether the US was a good influence for Manami. That was the first time I saw her act so strange. Made me wonder also whether I wanted to stay here and pursue my computer science degree. I had about 5 more weeks left in my stay before my decision to stay put or go back to Japan. "Didn't know you were a wild party man." Muroke: I'm not. Honest! Sorry about having you drive my friends back. "No problemo. I got your back on your girl problem as well. Muroke: Girl problem? You misunderstand. "Nah, I think I get it. Your woman's giving the cold shoulder because you aren't making the right moves on her." Muroke: It's not like that between me and Manami! "I got it all planned for you. Trust me. " Muroke: (in another part of the US) "Achoo! "May I take your bag?" #1: Nah. Just a handbag. I'll keeping this with me. I don't plan to stay long. I just want to see the match of that big behemoth. "That match is about begin. Come this way." (in the dojo floor) Kazuya: Here is the hulking giant now! (in lumbers Kahn accompanied by Routa Kouji decked out in a black "pimp daddy" outfit. Kazuya: (massages Kyosuke!'s shoulders) Now here's what you do. You go in there and wear him out 'cause he's big. Just run around till he gets tired. Then when he's out of breath, you let him have it with body blows and finish him with a right hook! Kyosuke!: This is karate, not boxing! I'll give him a opening clothesline followed by a roundhouse kick. Then I'll finish him with a powerdriver! Kazuya: That's wrestling, not karate! What are you thinking? Kyosuke!: Oh yeah. You're right! Gotta get my mind on kicking butt! Referee: Positions everyone! First one to 3 points is the winner. Let me remind you no illegal blows in the critical areas. Make sure we have a clean fight here. Akane: Why's that sleepyhead Kurumi? I thought she loved to watching fighting. Kazuya: More so than you realized. Akane: What? Kazuya: Uh, nothing. They're in the attack position now! [In the room] "Get me out of here!" "Kurumi-chan! Why are you all tied up? I thought Kyosuke was the only one into that kinky stuff." "It is me Ojii-chan! Kyosuke! " "Very funny. I may be old, but eyes still good. " "Urgh! Just untie me will you! I'll explain later." Ojiichan: Hmm, untying knots not my specialty. I'll get obaachan to do it. (*Teleport Flash*) "When I'm out of these bonds, I'm going to get Kurumi!" (back to the match) Akane: Geez! How boring. Kazuya: Are you kidding me? Look at how Kurumi, uh I mean Kyo-nichan is deflecting all the blows! Akane: That's what I'm saying. No scoring at all. (On the other side of the ring) "Routa Kouji. You were one hard son-of-a-bitch to find." Routa: Ah, one of Haroken's sidekicks, what was it? #10 or #11? "Very funny. You know I was #1." "Hard to believe, since everyone knows I'm am the #1 gambler in Asia. You're ranking must be in another category. " "Yeah, like busting your teeth in." "Now, now. Why must are you brutes resort to violence? Is that why you're here? You like the fights here too. Or do you have nothing better to do except to chase me after your master's demise? "It depends. But like you said, I am a free agent. You might as well enlist my services." "What makes you think I need anyone of your ilk?" "I found you, didn't I?" "That you did. I commend you for that. What gave me away?" "Your weakness for the casinos were your undoing. Otherwise, I wouldn't have this nice photo of you." "Intriguing. You must have contacts with the casinos." "I know a few people here and there. So. What do you say?" "I'm still skeptical. But I'm a sporting man. Let's wager on it. " "I knew you'll say that." "We all play games in one form or another." "At least let me pick the game." "Fair enough. Which one?" "What about this match. The big behemoth must be your man." "Always bet on the big one. That's my motto." "I'll bet that if he doesn't win, you give me a chance to get into the group. "And if my champion wins?" "You can tell me to get the hell out." "Beating you to a bloody clump would be more to my liking. More pounding for my champion. " "We'll see who'll be taking smack later." (in the ring are massive blows being delivered by Kahn!) Kyosuke!: Akane: Stop acting like a pussy, Kyo-ni-chan and start attacking! Kyosuke!: Ok! Here I come! Feel my wrath Kahn! Kyosuke! does a summersault and does a duck and under move, striking Kahn in the mid-section. Kazuya: Wow wee! You did it! Official: Red Corner, 1 point. Black Corner, 0 point. Akane: Sugoi! (pumps both her hands in the air) Kahn: Why you little...! (Delivers a super smack back, sending Kyosuke! flying!) Official: Red Corner, 1 point. Black Corner 1 point. Kyosuke! down on the mat! Kyosuke!: Urgh! Kazuya: Whoa, that gotta hurt. Akane: Don't be stupid! Stay down! Kahn: Ha! You couldn't survive even one punch! Official: 1, 2 ,3, 4, 5, ... Kyosuke!: That does it! Now you got me really mad! (Kyosuke! pops back up on his feet! ) Akane: Hey, that stance! I've seen it before... Kazuya: Look! You drop something. Akane: I did. (looks down) Kyosuke!: Kya-ya! Golden Power stance. Pa ka lor! (Kyosuke!'s hands move as if a thousand hands are striking! ) Official: Down! Red Corner 2 points. Black Corner 1 point. Kazuya: (telepathically) Kyosuke!: Kahn: Good! Good fight. Now feel power of me! Kyosuke!: You wish! Now to finish you off! Twin attack! Kazuya: Hey! That won't work here! There's only one of you here! (*Boom*) Official: Red Corner 2 point. Black Corner 2 points! Kazuya: (puts his hands to his face) (Kyosuke! is still flying towards the door!) (on the other side of the ring) Routa: You do have a habit on betting on losers. #1: Don't count this guy yet! He may look like a sissy, but he'll surprise you. That guy has the 'X' factor if you know what I mean. (back to the action) Kurumi: Oww! Official: Are you able to fight? Kurumi: I think so. (rubs her head) Official: I'm not talking to you. I'm talking to him. Kurumi: Huhhh? (Looks down and sees Kyosuke's body) (instant replay) We see Kurumi enter the ring through the door as... Kurumi!: Stop the ma-... (*smack*) We see Kyosuke!'s head knock into Kurumi!'s head in mid-flight. (end instant replay) Kurumi: Oh, so that's what happened. Official: ...3, 4, 5,... Kurumi: Oniichan! Wake up, wake up! I see Madoka! Kyosuke instantly springs up. Official: 8, 9,..You're up. Are you able to continue this fight? Kyosuke: (staggering as if he was drunk) F-f-fight? You mean fight for my lady, then of course! Official: Okay. Get set in your positions now. Kyosuke: Oh man, my whole body feels like crap! (shakes head) What a nightmare! Kurumi: This ain't a dream oniichan. You're in a real bout! Kyosuke: Say what? Official: Get into your position now. Kyosuke looks down at his karate attire and suddenly realizes. Kyosuke: Official: Score is 2 apiece for both sides. Next one to score wins this match. Kahn: You're all mine! Kyosuke: The guy from yesterday. Kazuya: Oh no, you're back to normal. Kurumi: I know! Now oniichan will really get smashed! (in the ring) Kyosuke: I didn't start this, but I'm going to end this one way or another. [Jazz Club] "Hello?" "Yo. What can I do for you?" "I'm looking for a job here." "Sorry. No waitressing jobs here." "I'm not here for that. I want to play for your club." "You huh? Listen. Let me spare you the details honey. All you younguns thinks they have that distinctive 'it' sound. I get every wannabe from every spectrum which way worth. This is the Bay Area, y'know. So save yourself some trouble and find another dream to chase. " "But..." "No, no, no. Get going." (gently scoots her out of the club) "Geez. Young people these days. I'm getting too old for these wannabes." [The moment of reckoning] Kyosuke: (Does his best Bruce Lee impression and waves his hands awkwardly) Harrrrrr! (*Kahn grunts*) Kazuya: Oh boy. This will be over real quick. Akane: Not if I can help it! (She closes her eyes and clenches her fists as if reciting an incantation.) (Both Kyosuke and Kahn deliver their blows!!!) Kazuya: I can't watch! Kurumi: Oww! That's gotta hurt! Kahn: You're finished! Kyosuke: You talking to me? (Both Kahn and Kyosuke look at each other and then turn to see who's on the ground) (It is the referee official!) Official: (groggy) You! Both of you! Disqualified! Akane: Oops! Kazuya: You didn't... Akane: Yep. I gave them temporary double vision so they would miss each other. I didn't know they would both hit the ref instead! (on the other side) Kahn: Not my fault! Routa: Go along now. Kahn: But... Routa: Just go and pack. We leaving here now. Lucky for you no real money bets on dojo matches allowed here. #1: Except for our own private bet. Routa: Yes, I nearly forgot. A disqual is just as good as a loss. But I must warn you. The code of the red clan won't be a cakewalk. I shall test you on a trial basis for this upcoming task of mine. #1: Don't worry; I'm up for the challenge, boss. (drapes his hand over Routa's shoulders.) Routa: I am not the boss. I merely represent the clan. Don't forget that. [At the Orpheum Theater] Paul: Hello Star-chan. Feeling okay? Hikaru: Could be better. I have this throbbing headache. Paul: I know what you mean. That's why I try not to be too party hearty on opening night. I know this special herbal tea that I've heard does wonders for hangovers. Let me make it for you. Hikaru: Thanks Paul. (Hikaru sits down, staring at herself in the mirror and sighs) Hikaru; Mirror, Mirror, on the wall. Where in the world is my tomodachi Madoka? (Hikaru looks down and sees an envelope on her table) She opens it to find a greeting card with a big teddy bear on it. "Best wishes from your biggest fan." Hikaru: Hmmm. I wonder who could this be from? [Back at the dojo] Ojiichan: Very naughty of you three to misuse the Power! today. Kazuya: Yeah sis! Akane: Look whose talking? You guys switched bodies! Kurumi: At least we get to vent our frustrations. Kyosuke: Stop thinking with your fists all the time! Kurumi: Hey, at least I got 2 points! You hit the official! Kyosuke: I told you it was an accident! I'd already apologized to the guy already many times! Ojiichan: Hush! You kiddies go back to Nihon. Staying here too long stray your minds. Kurumi: We have one more show to do. Akane: Yeah. In some place named San Diego. Kazuya: (groan) Oh no! I have to wear that kappaneko costume again!? [A few days later] (2 men driving in a rusted, white Daihatsu half-truck) "Why are we coming here in the middle of nowhere, Egg?" "You funny. Lots of food here." "Just fruits and vegetables. Don't tell me we'll going to be farmers." "Harvesting the earth is good. Lessons our ancestors pass down." "Wait a moment. Why are we stopping here? This is an orange orchard." "Next place to work for us here. We pick oranges here. Understand?" "Tah...that is not what I wanted to hear." [In another place] Manami: What's is this incessant typing? Is it Dana getting a paper done? Manami: Dana...isn't it a little early in the morning to be typing? Dana? (Manami half-awake, sees a creature at her desk!) Manami: Whoa! Who the hell are you? "Not very lady-like, are you cursing like that." Manami: You're a neko! A big talking neko now! "Yeah, and don't call me Totoro, o.k.? " Manami: You look like my cat Jingoro. "You mean old cuzin Jingo? How's he doin'? Still lyin' on his fat ass all day?" Manami: Hey, that's not a nice thing to say. "Screw it lady. I'm on a deadline to get this trashy story out." Manami: Who gave you the right to use my typewriter? "Who gave you the right to imprison me in your mind?" Manami: Me? I did no such thing. "Heh, heh, heh. Forget so easily. But you'll figure it out eventually. You're smart enough." Manami; At least tell me what do you call yourself. "Nah. That would be like giving away the ending of a story. If you want to know, then you can help me proofread my trashy novel." Manami: Me? Proof-read for you? "Yeah, honey. I'm on an important deadline that I have to meet. That's the life of a writer, being on the brink of madness and despair, not knowing where the next idea will come from, and with hounding publishers on your back, adding evermore to the pressure. It's a wonder you haven't cracked yet. Oh, but you're not an author at all. " Manami: Well, I've been thinking about it. But there are so many other things I can do. "Yeah, everyone wants to write a book. They think being a paperback author is easy. Bull! Constant rewrites and polishing. And most of the stuff out there is superficial crap. Writers are not grown on trees, y'know." Manami: This is such a odd dream. I'm getting out. "Suit yourself. But you're never find out who I am if you do." Manami: Oooh. You know I can't resist a mystery. "I know. I'm part of your mind now." Manami: So what are you writing? "A trashy romance novel. You know these things sell like hotcakes! People want to be in love vicariously, even though in real life, real true love is nearly impossible to find these days. It's the new, modern, feel-good fairy tale. Nice, quick, and disposable. " Manami: You're so cynical. "You have to be when I'm such a sell-out. Garbage in, garbage out I say. Except mine's refined crap. " Manami: Curiousier and curiousier it's becoming to be. "You're telling me. Here. Read this. It's the punctuated end to my story about some bloke name Yuusaku and his honey Hikaru." Manami: Wait a moment, those are 2 people I know! "So sue me! I am stuck in your pathetic mind. You can stick any name to your liking. " Manami: Fine. You're a crazy cat! "Crazy is as crazy does." Manami: What does this say... Hospital Scene Hikaru is crying. H: Oh you must not give up! You must keep fighting. I won't let you leave me again. Please. Please live for me. (places folded-together red bandanna on his hands, as she rests her head on his chest.) A hand taps at her shoulder. "Ma'am. He needs his rest. You have to go now." (A moment of silence. Hikaru composes herself, sighs and slowly stands up. She kisses him on the forehead.) "Doctor, please take care of him." "We'll do the best we can ma'am. You better get some rest yourself. Please come back in the morning." "Thank you doctor. I think it is best I go now." (walks out of the room, followed by the doctor.) Yusaku: (still unconscious) (mutters very softly) Hikaru-chan. (grips the red bandanna wrapped in his hand. 11:30pm Madoka & Kyosuke are huddled together, sitting in the waiting room. Madoka has Kyosuke's tan leather jacket draped around her shoulders. On the table are several cups of coffee and some outdated magazines. Madoka, seeing Hikaru coming, comes up to her and puts her hands on her shoulders. "How is he?" "The doctor said he is in critical condition and needs rest." "Here Hikaru. You look like you need some R&R. Come here." (leads her to the middle of the couch next to Kyosuke. Madoka sits on the other side) (Moment of tension and silence) (Hikaru breaks the silence and speaks up.) H; I like to thank you two for taking the time to come here. It must have been a lot of trouble for you guys." K: It's no trouble. We are all concerned about his welfare. H: It's funny that we should be together again like this, under these circumstances. K: I have to make a phone call. I'll leave you two by yourselves. See you in a bit. (gets up & leave) H: How long have you known. M: About what? H: You know. Me & Kyosuke. M: I've known for about a month now. H: I'm sorry. M: (says coldly) What's to be sorry about? Obviously, Kyosuke still has to decide between us. He's a free man. Whoever he chooses, it's up to him. However, it seems he has already made his choice. H: No Madoka. You're got it all wrong. He doesn't love me; he loves you. Of course, he has feelings for both of us. But it's you he truly loves. M: Has he told you this? H: No...not exactly. M: So then, what would you know? H: I still feel a coldness from him. No matter how close our bodies may come, it still feels like we're a million miles apart. And he still mutters your name in your sleep. M: Yeah, right. Like I'm suppose to believe nothing happened that night after the concert. H: So you know. M: Yes I know all about it. I wanted to surprise you in your room, to congratulate you. Instead, I find you in bed, naked with Kyosuke all over you. H: So I guess it would be futile to convince you otherwise then. M: Yes, it would be. H: Well, I'm going to tell you what happened, whether you like it or not. Madoka starts to protest, but Hikaru assertively stops her. H: Now Madoka. I'm not doing this for the sake of our friendship, nor to salvage your relationship with Kyosuke. If you are going to split up with Kyosuke, it won't be over this misunderstanding. M: (looks at her sternly, but then turns her head away) H: Now here's what happened. It's true. We were naked and in bed, probably from imbibing way too many drinks. The alcohol seem to have loosened our inhibitions too much for our own good. And yes, we were in intimate contact, fondling each other. But that was the extent of it. We didn't go "all the way" so to speak. M: And why not? How could he resist the temptation at that moment? H: At the point we were about to do it, he uttered your named aloud. At that moment, everything was shattered. He stopped immediately and left. M: But why? H: That you have to ask him yourself. (Kyosuke comes back) K: Hi, I'm back. H: I have to go now to the sanctuary room to pray. Bye. (Hikaru exits.) Kyosuke sits down next to Madoka, uncertain on what to do next. M: Kasuga, I know about the night you've spent with Hikaru. K: K: You do? M: Yes. Hikaru told me the whole thing. K: I can explain... M: Yes. You better start from the very beginning. K: M: Well,...I'm waiting. Or are you thinking for an excuse right now? K: NO. I mean I'm thinking where to start. Okay. Be prepared for a long story. I told her everything, starting with my future flashback at age 19 when I was hit by a car. Accidentally, my grandfather sent me forward to 1994 while I was unconscious, nearly killing me. I carefully explained my encounters with Hikaru then and how I was impressed with her new look and attitude. This led me to re-examine my feeling towards her. No longer was she this possessive child who wanted me all to herself. Instead, she was mature, worldly, and cultured. I was seduced by her new found inner strength and beauty. I even had a chance to sleep with her then, but since it was my 19 year old self, I didn't have the courage to go through with it. I then told her about my dialogue with my 22 year old self at the airport and how my older me told me that the "wheels were already in motion" and how that the triangle was starting up again as a result of that night. Who would have known then how true my own words would become. M: I didn't know about that. K: M: So what you're saying is that the older 22 year old you somehow messed up the thinking of the 19 year old you and let you to pursue this. K: Yeah, that's basically it! M: That sounds stupid and juvenile of you. Was it worth risking our love pursuing this whim? You should have known better. And to think that I blamed poor Hikaru solely for instigating this. K: No, it was both of our faults. As I said before, I felt a strange feeling when my 19 year old self met her in 1994. We were drawn to each other. Both of us knew it was wrong to pursue this. But we did so nonetheless. I had finally realize that I still had lingering feelings for Hikaru even after I broke up with her, leaving a bitter taste in my mouth. I was cold, heartless, to the point of refusing all contact with her. Our relationship may have ended, but she is still my friend. I was wrong to totally shun her. After all, you two were like sisters to each other. What I did only served to sever our long-lasting friendship. If only I could have had a more amicable breakup back then. Maybe things would be different. M: And that's why you were drawn to her when she returned? K: Yes. I knew it was wrong and it wouldn't work out, but my stubborn male pride got in the way. I had to be sure it was truly over between the two of us. Only then could I totally commit my love to you. It wasn't a very mature thing for me to do. M: No,...it wasn't. (sarcastically) But you couldn't help it, right? K: NO, I could have helped it. It's just that even though you know doing something is not right, curiosity gets the better of you. M: You're referring to my smoking? K: Yeah. You know it's a bad habit, but sometimes you cheat. M: You made your point, but it still doesn't change anything. Sleeping with Hikaru cannot be compared with a bad habit. K: So you know about that also? M: Yes, I know the whole thing. I've heard Hikaru's side of the story. Let's hear your version. K: (flashback to the moment) Well, there's not much to say. It was after her performance and you couldn't make it. She and I went to the hotel bar to celebrate. We had a raucous good time and both of us were quite drunk. I don't know how we managed to get back to her hotel room. But once there, she became very delirious, muttering strange phrases like 'stop playing games with me'...and 'You can't fool me. I know the secret you're hiding...'and 'why did you have to leave me." I naturally thought she was referring to me. I was about to leave until she stopped me, begging me not to go. I couldn't resist the temptation o the moment. Before I knew it, both of us were stripped down and in each other's arms under the covers. I would be lying if I told you that I didn't want her that night. M: And I'm suppose to believe something stopped you. K: Yes, I felt a funny feeling. It was if I experienced simultaneous sensations. M: I can imagine that. K: It's not what you're thinking. It was another peculiar feeling. My ESPer powers started to kick in. It was as if me and Hikaru's minds were linked. A premonition was forming in my mind. I sensed a dark, shadowy figure recessed in Hikaru's mind. Your figure appeared in mine. Suddenly, the two figures from both of our minds converged on each other, holding hands and starting to walk away. I couldn't tell who was this menacing figure who was taking you away. Then you two stopped and you turned towards me. You said "I'm leaving you." I couldn't stand it anymore. I yelled "Madoka!" It was then I heard Hikaru's voice also. I couldn't really make out what she was screaming. Did she say 'You'? I then turned towards you, but before I knew it, a kinetic charge barrier formed and I was instantly repelled back. I wanted to stop you but I couldn't do anything. I felt so helpless. Then my mind returned back to reality and I looked at Hikaru and there she was lying still on the bed. I went over and checked her pulse to make sure she was still okay. She was, butshe must have finally collapsed from the effects of the alcohol. I was in sorry shape myself. With the remaining strength I had, I got dressed and left the room. M: So that's it? K: I still couldn't explain it. I was sure she was referring to Ryusei, but why? He certainly fit the dark, shadowy silhouette figure I saw. But what was the tie between them? What was it about Ryusei and Hikaru? Were they intimately acquainted? Who was the mystery man and why of all people was she thinking of him when I was with her? M: (cynical laugh) What poetic justice. I guess there is a God after all. K: Huh? What are you saying? M: (smiles devilishly) Why my dear Kyosuke, what you and Hikaru were experiencing was a purported premonition of the future. But luckily for you, you must have been facing Hikaru in bed on the left side, neh? K: Yes, but... M: I was in a shaken state of mind when I saw you two in bed. Before, I saw Ryusei who was still in the hotel bar and he told me that Hikaru was probably in her hotel room. I had gone up with the intention of surprising her, but instead it was me who was in for the big surprise. The door to the hotel room was left partially open. I peered through the crack of the doorway and saw two figures in bed. I thought I had the wrong room. I was about to leave until I heard your voice, followed by Hikaru's. That was the kiss of death. I was shocked, mortified -- too sick to my stomach to even think clearly. I immediately stormed out. K: What did you do afterwards? M: I went back to the bar and sat down at the table with Ryusei. He asked me if something was wrong. He saw by my body language that I wasn't right. But I made up an excuse saying I ate some bad sushi and wasn't feeling well. Ryusei then asked me about Hikaru. I told him that she was sleeping and I didn't want to disturb her. Before he could press further with the subject, I asked him to get me a drink. I had to get my mind off the sight of your two bodies. I believed I asked him to get me a Johnny Walker whiskey, 90 proof. I figure getting myself drunk was the best approach to drown away my troubles. After several drinks, Ryusei implored me to stop, but I angrily demanded more, so he relented. A few more drinks later, I was tipsy and disoriented. Ryusei finally said that he was going to take me back home. I was too drunk to protest. I must have made a fool of myself, muttering out "Why, why me?" As Ryusei dragged me to his car, my left hand swung over his head. When we finally made it back to my place, I was able to sober up a bit. But he still had to drag me into the house. He fished the keys from my purse and took me upstairs to my bedroom. How did he know which room was mine? It was then an evil thought cross my mind. I thought of getting back at you and seducing Ryusei would serve my needs. He laid me up on the bed and was about to leave until I grabbed his arm. "Please don't leave. I don't want to be alone tonight." "(stoically) Please don't humor me. You need to sleep it off. I got to go." "(groggily) But didn't you hear me? I'm not one to be spurned and I always get what I want. I then went to put my hands around his neck to draw him near to me. Instead I accidentally knocked his sunglasses off. I then saw his unadulturated face in the moonlight; it was Yuusaku! K: What!? (rises up in shock) M: Yes, I was shocked myself. At first, I thought it was the alcohol playing tricks with my mind. However, his eyes betrayed his true identity. K: Then what happened? M: He apologized, picked up his glasses and left. But the damage had already been done. K: So Ryusei is really Yuusaku? Who would have guessed it? They're two totally different personalities. M: (says softly and in sexy voice) Hey, this doesn't mean I forgive you! K: (gets close to her and blows softly inside her ear) So what do I have to do to make it up to you? M: (turns around at him in shock and exclaims) Kasuga Kyosuke, you're such a pervert! You've got another thing coming if you think I'm going to forgive you for all of this. You are still the worst! (* SLAP!* ) (Madoka storms out) K: (with somewhat shocked look on his face, and then he smiles, touching gently his cheek) She still cares about me after all. Manami: How come this draft has the names of people I know? Kappa: that's cause it won't be interesting without their histories. Manami: Boy, this is really a trashy script you're writing. Neko: You think? Great! My publisher would eat this up! Then I can get all the koi to eat up! Ummm, lovely koi, oi! Manami: Hey, you lied! You said I could find out who you are if I read this. I don't see how this ties in. Neko: You're suppose to be the smart one in the family. Wait till I am linked with my other half to find out the whole story. Thanks for reading. (tap, tap, tap) Gotta go. (grabs the sets of papers from her) (We see a flash of light and poof! He's gone! Manami also finds herself awake in the very same room, but with Dana still sleeping on the other side.) Manami: What a strange dream. That neko behaved as if he has the Power! Things are getting curiousier and curiousier. [At the dojo] (*click*) A shutter goes off. "You seem to be a good sport about these things." Kyosuke: It's no problem. I enjoy taking photos instead of fighting. Catching the lightning movements of the karate is very challenging indeed. Not my usually subjects of kids and flowers. "Very many thanks for you to take pictures for us. My master thanks you deeply." Kyosuke: It's the least I can do, since you are letting me lodge here for free. Plus your master is doing me a great favor in granting me this interview. "Yes, he rarely speaks of his younger days as a soldier. Good that he has a chance to get it off his chest." Kyosuke: Where is the master now? I haven't seen him for a few days. "He's still recovering from the chills. His health is not what it used to be. But he does speak of you to me. I'll be sure to let him know." Kyosuke: Thank you. Let him know I wish him a speedy recovery. [Back in the Bay Area] "Hello? Whose this?" "CAN'T YOU TELL YOU BIG BOZO!" "Oh, Kaori. It's you. What do you want?" "What's the matter with you not calling me while you're in America?" "Like I told you, this case is very hush hush. I gotta keep a low profile, y'know?" "Like hell! Don't be screwing around now! Or else I'd be coming after you!" "I know. At least I have ole' Betsy to look after me." "Stop thinking of your gun all the time! I'm going to bonk some sense into you some day." "I'll be running by then. Away from your clutches!" "You wish. Hey, where are you now?" "In the streets that made Dirty Harry and his magnum 44 famous." "Dirty Harry? Are you in some porn area?" "No, no! Geez. Your mind always in the gutter? I'm in the streets of San Francisco." "Oh, that place. Then I don't have to worry about you chasing girls there." "Hey, what's that suppose to mean?" "Well enough idle chit-chat. I gotta go shopping. Ja ne!" (*hang up sound*) "Woman. Quick to accuse and quick to hang up on you. Now I gotta figure out what Routa wants in this town with his goon Kahn." [Inside some sort of school] (It is inside a large, industrial size kitchen with professional equipment) (We see a group of people wearing white uniforms, with the main person standing up in the front) I welcome all the applicants to the culinary academy. Cooking is a fine art which anyone can master as long as they have the will and desire. You may hear other instructors tell you that cooking appears to the five senses. The look, smell and taste of course are obvious sensations to those who ingest it. What's not so obvious are the sounds and touch. When you are done here, you will learn to identify how much heat and oil to put into a dish based merely on the sizzle. For choosing the foods, you would need to rely on your sense of touch and feel for the texture and flavor locked away inside. But last is the hidden sense or the "sixth" sense. Like I say, my philosophy is, your stomach is the best judge. Even if your dishes pass the 5 senses test, if it fails the last one, then you have to go back to the cooking board, no pun intended. My rules here are simple. I expect everyone to be punctual, for hunger waits for no one. I don't expect everyone to be perfect. Just make sure you don't burn the place down. He he. Now, the best way to learn is to actually do it. So people, take your places, and make sure your nametags are visible when I come around. [On the streets of San Francisco] (We see Muroke getting off the bus and walking on the streets towards the subway) This was going to be my daily routine for a while before I can decide what I wanted to do. I was sitting in on some computer science classes over at Berkeley. I didn't want to trouble Trebor, so I learned to take the busses and subway they call 'BART' here. They have a lot more separate transportation systems here than over in Japan. There was a 'MUNI', and a 'AC Transit' and a 'VTA'. Very strange setup to have so many small systems in such a small area. Makes carrying correct change even more important. One good thing is that Trebor manage to get tickets for the Giants baseball game this weekend. I manage to muster up my courage and asked Manami if she wanted to come, and amazingly, she was enthusiastic about it. That upcoming event left a warm feeling in my heart. I believe nothing could go wrong for me now. (*Bump*) Muroke: Sorry. "Hey, short stuff! You're here!" Muroke: (looks up) Ehhh?! It's you! #1! #1: Yo. Happen to be in the neighborhood. " Muroke: For what? I thought you and Kaori were done with the Master's business already. #1: You mean that nag? That's why I took this trip. To get away from her and avoiding some mind-splitting arguments. But the Masters' business is not done. Muroke: I don't know what you mean, but whatever it is, leave me out of it! #1: C'mon! Give your old pal a break. You need to lighten up. This is the new #1. I've turned over a new leaf. Muroke: More like a new gun's a blazing attitude. #1: Speaking of guns, do you know where I can find the best gun shop in town? I gotta get o'le Betsy's bearings cleaned up. (brandishes the weapon) Muroke: (quickly covers his hand) Are you nuts!? You can't be showing off your gun out in public like this! Some cop would arrest you! That would be bad for a foreigner like you. #1: Still the same old uptight Muroke. Good times we had back then. Muroke: I've gotta go. See ya. #1: Hey, I don't know my way around here. I'll follow you. Muroke: Eh? Stay away! #1: You're not getting away that easily! [At the Orpheum] Hikaru arriving for the daily routine. She sits at her dressing room and sees another envelope on her table. She opens and reads it. It was from the same person as far as I can tell from the penmanship. I wondered who could it be from. Who would possibly know about me out here on the other side of the coast? "Still getting those creepy letters?" Hikaru: Janice! You shouldn't be looking over people's shoulders like that! Janice: (blows out a puff of smoke from her cigarette) Just watching out for you. You never know in this town. There's a bunch of cuckoos roaming about. I am one to know! I use to hang out with them! If you ask my genuine opinion, there's a stalker after you. Hikaru: Stalker? Janice: Yep, that must be it. You haven't had any boyfriends here when you moved out here from the big Apple. Hikaru: Don't rub it in! Janice: I'm just saying that if it ain't a stalker, then it may be your ex's. They are the worst! Or even worst yet. A stalking ex! Isn't that right Paul? Paul: Oh pleeez! Tell me about it! Ex-boyfriends are the worst! I should know about that. But this stalker has good penmanship. Hikaru: Would you stop it you two? You're giving me the creeps! Paul: Maybe you should get a bodyguard. I know a few friends... Hikaru: Don't worry; I'm planning on taking a self-defense class that my friend Vivian is taking. Janice: Ooh! You're going to be a kick-ass dancer literally! Paul: Good one, Moonbeam! Janice: Would you stop calling me that!? Hikaru: Oh brother. Another looney bunch of people to work for. [San Diego Comic Con] (We see Hatta and Komatsu dressed up in slick black and white outfits) Komatsu: Hello Hatta! Hatta: Hello Komatsu! Komatsu & Hatta: We're the hentai kings! (We see the glint of their teeth sparkle at the same time!) Akane: Oh gawd. How cheesy can you guys get? Kazuya: Look whose talking? You're dressed up in a sailor suit! (A wand smashes into Kazuya's head) (*oww!*) Kurumi: Gomen! My hand slipped. I was practicing the 'Super Wand Attack'! "Hello everybody!" Hatta: Here's comes the head of the Tenshi Angels, Tsuni-baby! Tsuni: Oh, you're such a charmer talker. Hatta: Wait till you see what I've drawn! (both of them start to giggle mischievously) Komatsu: Dang! Even Hatta's getting more action than I am. Gotta scoop me up some honeys! [Central Valley] We see Lee loading the oranges onto the truck, amid the burning sun, with sweat dripping across his brow. Chan: Lee, good work. Like a drink? Lee: Yeah, what do you got? Chan: How about some orange juice? Lee: Very funny. You know how much I hate this stuff. Chan: You are not very traditional. You know that oranges are symbol of good luck. Good, fragrant smell. Lee: Don't remind me. The stuff sticks on my hands. I can't wait to wash it off. If I don't see another orange again, it won't be soon enough. Chan: You act much different than what I expect. Lee: Too loose for your standards? Chan: I expect big trouble from you. Lee: Look. I can be trouble when I need to be. Chan: We worry about trouble later. Do job now. Lee: (grunts) Okie dokie. [Back at Berkeley] #1: So, you're taking some classes here. Muroke: Not really. I'm just sitting in. You're still a loose cannon. #1: Thanks, little buddy. How long have you been here? Muroke: About a month now. You just get here in town? #1: Yep. Just moseying about. You missed all the cool events. Like Tanabata and such. Muroke: I know. But it's my only chance to get out here and evaluate things on my own. #1: Thanks to you know who. Muroke: It's over, right? The Master's gone already. Let's leave him in peace. We should move on. #1: I couldn't agree more. You're lucky. You're still young and not tied down. For some, they have to come full circle to meet their former demons. Muroke: What are you talking about? #1: Nothing that would concern you. Muroke: I thought you hated traveling. #1: Are you kidding me? I've been to places you've never dreamed of. Now, I am finally here; walking on the same grounds roamed by Dirty Harry himself! Muroke: You mean Clint Eastwood. #1: How do you know? Muroke: You always talk about him all the time, so I did a little research into it. You know he's the mayor of Carmel. #1: Car-what? Muroke: It's a nice California city near the ocean. #1: What? No way! How can he turn from the gritty, lone wolf cop against the system to be part of the system itself. That's unforgivable! Muroke: Sorry to crush another fantasy for you, but I've got another class to sit in. I hope you know how to go back on your own. Ja! #1: Hey! You can't leave me here in this crazy maze of transit systems! [Back in Vegas] It was the final day of the tournament where they were wrapping up the ceremonies. After my bout, I volunteer my photography services for the key matches, to capture the fire and spirit of the karate matches, especially those of the Shoto-kan school. I was never into martial arts except for that brief session with Yuusaku, but now, after witnessing the purity and form of the matches, I was a convert. It was not the actual fighting that stimulated me, but the free-form flow between the combatants and the environment surrounding them, with the mixing of energies between the participants and the crowd. It was a truly exhilarating experience. I was in the red room developing the last of the shots. In came another person. It turned out to be Osamu-san! Kyosuke: Konbonwa! Osamu: Konbonwa. Do you require some help with that? Kyosuke: I'm okay. I didn't know you were into photography. Osamu: You forget I was a director once. This reminds me of times I was in editing room reviewing film. The room was not red like it is here, like blood. Kyosuke: Yeah, I forget. You should be familiar with the A-V room. I'll be done in a minute. Osamu: Take your time. (takes a picture) Very creative shot here. Kyosuke: Thank you. It was a very tricky angle there. Osamu: Is your father a photographer as well? Kyosuke: Yes. How did you know? Osamu: Your family name sounded familiar. Kasuga that is. Kyosuke: That was my mother's family name. My father though only takes pictures of landscapes; not people. Osamu: That's too bad. Pictures are the only vessels to capture the essence of one's lost youth. (sighs) I just was pondering the upcoming anniversary in a few hours. Kyosuke: Which would be? Osamu: The day my new life started. Kyosuke: Excuse me? Osamu: 50 years to the day. July 29, 1945. My kamikaze mission. Kyosuke: What a coincidence. Osamu: Yes. 50 long years. That's a long time. Life goes by so quickly before you realize it. I wanted to finish off the interview that is heavy on my heart. Kyosuke: Please go on where you left off. Osamu: I want to say I saw some of the research work that Tamaki-san was helping the professor work on. I wanted to conclude the interview by telling those who which might be reading this to keep an open mind. I know it must be very easy to condemn our actions in the war. I want to say that our people are not an evil people. There will be those who cannot forgive our actions in the war. That is understandable. I have encountered many veterans here in the US who served in the Pacific campaign. Many lives were lost on both sides. I am not ashamed to hide my actions. I only hope our present and future generations can look back on this account and use it as a guide and experience. I believe there is a general goodness that exists within all living things. Hosting the Goodwill show has shown me the kindness and generosity shown towards others. I feel my time is short. Time is the great equalizer. Everything fades away with time. Fame, fortune, even people and countries. The only thing that lasts is memories. That is the only legacy I can leave. I have nothing to hide anymore. Hiding or ignoring the past for so long would be my only regret. Kyosuke: Thank you for being my first interview. As one of the young people you speak of, I certainly won't forget your words. Osamu: Then I am glad. I must be departing now. [The next day] Manami is slumped over her typewriter. We see stacks of paper typed up next to her. The alarm rings! Manami: Ugh! My neck. (rises slowly and moves her neck shoulder to shoulder) Good I didn't have that strange dream reoccur on me. I'm definitely not feeling like myself. My gosh, what are these sunglasses for? (Yawnnnnnn!) Hmmm. Dana left already. I haven't seen her around lately. Hope I didn't scare her with my bizarre behavior lately. Or maybe she's doing better than me on this Odyssey paper. There's only a week left! What am I'm going to do? [End of the tournament] (Outside, we see the participants leaving en masse) Kyosuke is holding his bags, walking out in the hallway. Osamu-san, assisted by James meet him there. Kyosuke: Osamu-san! Good morning! Osamu: A good morning to you. I nearly forgot to give you this. Kyosuke: What is it? Osamu: The main purpose of your visit. Tamura-san was gracious enough to send you to record my story in exchange for data that will help her other research. Be very careful with it. Kyosuke: I will. But what is in it? Osamu: A war diary, including accounts of battles campaign excursions in China. I told you before how some in the kamikaze corps had to distinguish themselves in battle before they were allowed to join. This person was one of them. He died in the kamikaze mission 5 days before my flight. He was in the bed next to mine. He gave me this book before he left on that flight. I have kept it since. Now it is yours. Kyosuke: Arrigatou. I will make sure Tamura-san gets this! Osamu: Have a safe trip and god speed. [At the Expo] Kurumi: Ojiichan! You've finally made it. Akane: Yeah. What took you so long? This is the last day. Ojiichan: Many good sightseeing places to go here. We went to the zoo, saw big killer whale Shamu at the Sea park. Motto fun at beaches! Kazuya: I bet! You were probably taking pictures of all the gals in bikinis. (*Bang!*) (Kazuya gets a knock on the head!) Kazuya: Owww! Akane: Ooops! My hand slipped. Ojiichan: Where the bigshots? Kurumi: They have been visiting the other booths on the last day. We're manning the booth now. Akane: Speaking of the devils, here they come. Komatsu: Yoo-hoo! Good news! Kazuya: We can get out of these sucky costumes now? Komatsu: Ha he! What a kidder! No, I met this very interesting gaijin Peter who spoke near fluent Japanese! He has been living in Japan for awhile, but grew up in this city. He wants to start an electronic store to sell Japanese-related goods over in the US! He wants to start out with A-V and hentai goods! I showed him some of Hatta's work and he seemed keenly interested in carrying our stuff! Said that he could even translate for us for the English speakers here. Smells like a good business opportunity! Hatta: Well I got you one better! I met my favorite manga writer of all time! Matsumoto-san! I didn't know he even attended shows outside Japan! And look! He even drew a quick sketch for me. (shows it to everyone) Kazuya: Gee, that sure looks like Madoka-san. Kurumi & Akane: It sure does. Hatta: Well, drawing goddesses is his specialty and Madoka-san is definitely a hottie! "Whose is this Madoka person you're talking about?" Hatta: Oh Tsuni. She just some scary idol many of us worshipped back in high school. Tsuni: So des ka? Hatta: Hai! Come. Let's have lunch now. (Hatta quickly leaves with Tsuni) Akane: Yo, that's sounds like a great idea! Komatsu, you're covering lunch for all of us! Komatsu: Are you kidding me? Do you know how much they overcharge at the food booths here? Kurumi: Yep! And I want to buy the souvenirs too! Komatsu: (Groans!) There goes the budget for hookers! [Back at the club] (Music playing in the background) 'Sitting on the dock of the bay, wasting time...' "Excuse me..." "Not you again! Don't you youngins' get it? " "I am not here for that job. You had another one." "Only help I need is in the kitchen." "I can do that. I am currently attending the Culinary Academy. I would be grateful if you can give me a shot to work to serve your patrons. " "It won't be good to reject you twice. " "Please let me try. " "No! I won't hear of it!" "Come on chief. Soften up your curmudgeon self. At least let her try." "Parker! I strive for the best and only accept the best. People need to learn their place. Now where that rascal go?" "I'm going to get some material down." "Where'd she snuck off to Parker? Tell me. Stop! I'm talking to you." [Back in the city] Routa: So. Decided to participate? #1: Sorry about meeting up with ya folks last night. You see, there was this woman... Routa: No need to gloat over your conquests. #1: Where's the big gorilla? Routa: Killer Kahn? He polishing up his skills at the local martial art school. Not the sparkling conversationalist, but he does as he's told. #1: Yep. Obedience. Like a dog. You can't beat it. You tell him to go fetch it and he will. Or rather go kill it. Routa: It's nothing personal. As you know, everything boils down to the money. He who has the luck gets the money. Yes, here we are. (they enter this building in Chinatown, passing by some elderly folks) #1: What is this dump? Routa: A Benevolent Association. Or rather, the front entrance to it. #1: Looks like just a bunch of old Chinese geezers shooting the breeze. Routa: Gossip serves as the eyes and ears for the triad in any area. We can find what we're after here. [Out in the Central Valley] (inside a shack) We see two figures laid out sleeping on the dirt floor. There is a board with Chinese Checkers pieces. "Argh. Damn hangover. (knocks over a Jose Cuervo bottle) " I remember exchanging shots with Egg, playing Chinese Checkers. He just plain keeled over. We had been stuck in this Central Valley picking like the rest of the migrant workers here for days. I don't know what he has in mind for me. We've been moving from job to job, place to place, aimlessly without purpose. Yet internally, I felt an urging. When I had woken up from my ordeal at sea, I felt I lost a piece of myself that I needed to find. Even with my memory gone, the sensation still persisted. And the pain on my body, especially my back, was acting up again. I don't know if I was water bound for days. Or did I crash my back on something hard. Exerting myself with back-breaking work as a laborer, was that my lot in life? Was I really a refugee from China? (sees something sticking out of Egg's shirt pocket, with Egg still snoring. Sid slowly removes it and sees a photograph.) We see him glance at it and then look at Egg with disgust before storming out of the shack. [In the Park] Hikaru: Nice day for a picnic in the park. Vivian: Glad you can make it. You've been so busy these days! Hikaru: Yeah. Keeping up with the play schedule, especially for a dancer is excruciating. Today I got a couple of extra hours off. Vivian: I heard from a little bluebird that you've got a secret admirer. Hikaru: Who told you that? Vivian: I lips are sealed. But not yours. So spill. Hikaru: It's just a couple of fan letters here and there. Vivian: That's so neat! Hikaru: How can you say that? People told me that it might be a stalker. Vivian: Let me see the letters. Hikaru: Here. (takes them out of her purse.) Vivian: Hmmm...Naw. Might be a gay guy writing you though. Hikaru: Are you kidding? Vivian: You don't know? Most of my gay friends love musicals. Of course they not into YOU physically, but they dig your style. Get it? Hikaru; I never thought of it that way before. So. Enough about me. (takes a bite out of her sandwich) So what are we watching? Vivian: Shakespeare in the Park. They do this during the summertime to give a little culture to the City. Hikaru: Interesting. I was thinking of taking an acting class at night. Just having those few lines was bad enough. I need to build up my confidence in that area. Vivian: I can picture it. (folds her arms to her bosom) Oh Romeo, where art thou Romeo. (They both giggle.) (Just then, we see a Japanese looking couple walking by the scene and uttering lines of their own) "Oh Ushiko." "Oh Umao." "Where are thou Ushiko?" "Where are thou Umao?" [On JAL Airlines] Kyosuke is sitting in his chair, gazing out the window, into the wide blue yonder. Kyosuke: "Excuse me sir." Kyosuke: Yes miss? Can I help you? "Some man in first class is causing some trouble. " Kyosuke: What can I do? "The old lady who seems to be the wife says you are her grandson and the only one who can quell the situation." Kyosuke: I see. Let's go. (As they descend into first class, they see Ojiichan holding up his pipe and barking at the other flight attendants.) Ojiichan: This is Japan Airlines. I should be able to smoke! Flight Attendant: I'm sorry sir. Even though this is first class, we are in the United States now. They recently have passed laws banning smoking on all domestic flights within the US. You may smoke in the designated smoking areas once we land. Ojiichan: This is pipe, not cigarette! Flight Attendant: Smoking is smoking, no matter the mechanism. Please try to understand and calm down. Ojiichan: Oh I feel outrage now! Kyosuke: Ojiichan! What do you think you're doing? Ojiichan: Kyosuke! You're on the same flight too? Kyosuke: I should be asking you that question. Excuse me. Let me talk to my ojiichan. I'm sure we can settle the matter peacefully. Flight Attendant: I leave it up to you then. Ojiichan: It's good eh? Bigger seats and free drinks! Kyosuke: What do you think you're doing? Ojiichan: First time here in first class. I thought everything goes. Right obaachan? Obaachan: Oi, Oi! Kyosuke: No matter where I am, you seem to have the knack of picking the right time to embarrass me! Ojiichan: Ah, don't be party pooper! No pipe, okay? Smoking bad for you anyway. Kyosuke: Then why'd you pull the stunt? Ojiichan: They misunderstand. I only took pipe out to play with. See. (pipe starts to levitate in his hand) Kyosuke: Stop that! (snatches the pipe in mid-air) Ojiichan: They thought I want to smoke. So I argue with them to have fun. Kyosuke: Geez, you have a sick sense of fun. And why aren't you on your way back to Japan? Ojiichan: They go back but not us! We travel everywhere! San Francisco is next! Has Japanese Tea Garden. Kyosuke: Okay, okay. Fine. But stay out of my business. I've got real work to do for Tamura-san. I can't be caught up with your shenanigans. Ojiichan: I'll be on best behavior. Wow, look at big blonde! Flash time! (*shutter click*) Kyosuke: Ojiichan! Stop ruining the reputation of us photographers! [Back at Yoshii's] (A waitress comes out with a platter of food.) "Charlie! Food's here. " "I'm the boss. Where's my grub?" "I got your food here too. Here." "Missy giving you a hard time?" "Are you two the wise guys? Let an old coot eat in peace." "Oriental food today. Sounds like my cup of tea." "I'll be the judge of what's good. (starts munching) How's your grub Parker?" "Tastes fine to me. Though I'm no connoisseur like you." "Damn right! This curry tastes different today. Is Johnson using a different spice today?" "Why? You don't like it?" "Nah. A different style. Reminded me of a taste way back when. Long before I opened this club." "It was not Johnson. It was that new girl you hired." "New girl? " "Yeah. That's what she told me. She specifically said she wanted to make lunches for you two." "Is that so? I'm not letting no two-bit cook make a mockery out of me." "Cool it boss. You said yourself this stuff was good. Give the lady a break. It's not she ain't good. " "Well of course she can make this type of food. She Japanese. I can tell those things. " "So what? Being an Anglo not gonna make me a better server." "Cut me some slack! I'll let her stay, but not on a permanent basis! She on trial and she's lucky to even get that. She got balls, I grant her that. You can break it to her Maljorie." "Will do boss." "Parker, I'm getting too old for this." "Aren't we all? Though you'll never be too old for sax." "You mean sex." "And that too." (They both get a good chuckle) [At a Holiday Inn in Chinatown] (#1 is in his hotel room, in the bathroom, sitting on the can. He opens a small bag and takes out what seems to be an electric shaver. He presses a certain sequence of the buttons and it transforms into a SAT phone! #1: Yo K.C.. It's me. Kanuka: You're in San Francisco right now. #1: Hey, how'd you know? Kanuka: We are receiving your coordinates as we speak. #1: Tracking system and phone and shaver. You XIA folks are impressive. Kanuka: You forgot the encrypted communication and the scattering field to prevent eavesdropping. #1: Whew. James Bond would be envious. Kanuka: Going against X-pers require the best technology. Even with it, we are at a disadvantage. #1: Well, I'm telling you, I see no X-pers or supernatural freaks here so far. Just normal freaks. Kanuka: Elaborate. #1: After that shindig in Hong Kong, I went over to Las Vegas where I tracked down Routa and his goon freak Kahn. Now they're up here to find some man who could be linked to the last remnants of the Dragon clan. Rumor around the underground is that he is a refugee, who escaped from the fray. There's even a bounty on his head. Kanuka: Any ideas on the identity? #1: Nope. But it must be one of Goro's goons. A powerful man like him is bound to have capable underlings waiting in the background. Going abroad would be the perfect cover to lay low and wait for the forces in the network to regroup. Kanuka: So, the black dragon rears its head again. #1: Yep. Mao and his red group is never going to let one member of the Black Dragon group go. Betrayal is never forgiven. You know how superstitious those Chinese folks are. Routa seems to be in charge of providing the bounty, so he's been dragged into this. Kahn must be his bodyguard or something. More like musclehead to me. Listen, I need to take a crap, so I call you later. Kanuka: Ryoukai. Signing out. #1: Ahhh... that feels better. [Back at the Park] Vivian and Hikaru are walking along. Hikaru: Thank you for lunch. It been a long time since I last walked at a park. Vivian: Girlfriend, you needed a T.O. badly. Dancer's legs gotta be loose. Don't worry, be happy right? Hikaru: Happiness huh? I wonder what it feels like to be truly happy? (We hear a chime in the background) (Hikaru stops for a moment, as if mesmerized) (*ching ching*) Vivian: You okay? Hikaru: Hmm? I was just distracted. Vivian: Chimes are your thing? It's inside that flower store. Do you wanna get one? Hikaru: No. I don't think it would be appropriate at this time. Let's keep going. Vivian: Your call. Glad it wasn't a dog whistle! My dogs would just go crazy! [On the road] We see that beat-up Daihatsu, driving aimlessly on the interstate. (Phil Collins 'Take a Look at me now' playing on the radio) I was a wanted man. I could tell by the "marks" in the picture. I was now to be hunted down. Was Egg trying to protect me from that? Or was he just biding his time, waiting to turn me in? I didn't know and I couldn't take the chance. I knew now I could not trust anyone. I am better off on my own. For I am no one in this no-name place here I did not know of. I was driving, with no destination in mind. Yet something was calling me, drawing me in. That much was certain, in my mind. Until I answered it's calling, I was entrapped under its spell. Like a moth drawn to the light. Or like Daedelus, flying towards the sun to hasten his demise, undone by the heat of the light and living. [Saturday] [At the Mayo clinic] "How are you feeling?" "Bigger. But fine." "Do you have insurance?" "Uhh, no sir. I do not. Would that be a problem?" "Ah, don't worry about it. Here, we treat the patients because it matters. Especially for expecting mothers like you. "Thank you." "Based on the tests, you should be delivering sometime in September. Are you married?" "No, I'm not." "Single mothers. Sign of the times. Just make sure you take care of yourself. Get plenty of rest. Doctor's orders." "Yes doctor. Thank you very much." [At the Holiday Inn] Kyosuke sitting in his hotel room, overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge. He is wearing the red straw hat! I had arrived in town yesterday, but I crashed straight to bed and slept. It has been a trying time, reawakening all those painful memories of losing Madoka and myself in the Balkans, and listening to Osamu-san's account. It was the weekend already, and I wasn't to meet a Ms Nakagawa-san until Monday. So I had time to kill, in a foreign city, all by myself. Usually, when I am in a new area, I would be visiting the various tourist sites enjoying myself. But there was nothing to enjoy if Madoka was not there with me. It was those times I truly felt alone. When I saw the sight of the Golden Gate Bridge, with its blazing red color, I felt that old, nostalgic feeling again. That why I felt like wearing the old red straw hat again. My first gift from Madoka. With the backdrop of the rolling hills, I remember how our first encounter was an argument. A silly one at that over the number of steps. Whether it was 99 or 100, or even a thousand steps, I would gladly have climbed all of them if I knew if Madoka was at the top to greet me. But in this silly life, there was no such assurances. (*Flash*) "It's shutter time!" (*Shutter click*) Kyosuke: Ojiichan! You shouldn't pop into people's rooms without knocking! "Nande? You don't have a woman here?" Kyosuke: Urgh! Why do I even bother? [On a Blue and Gold Fleet ship] #1: Brr! It's freakin' cold out here! Routa: Brisk breezes in this marina. Much warmer in Hong Kong Harbor. #1: You're telling me! I should have brought a jacket with me. Routa: We be there promptly. #1: So we're going to the big, bad prison of Alcatraz? Routa: No; somewhere smaller. #1: Where? Routa: There. (points to Angel island) [At Hikaru's Apartment] The chime yesterday stirred up a feeling I had not felt in a long while. It was as if an old acquaintance had returned. But who? That was the question. As I sat up in my bed, I thought I saw a figure by the door for an instant. I could have sworn I saw someone. I got up and walked by the door. There on the floor was a letter. [At Trebor's house] (*ding dong*) Trebor: Hello. Woah, you're Muroke's friend. What are you doing here? "I was in the area. Mind if I come in?" Trebor: No. My, that's a mighty mysterious ensemble you're wearing. "Mysterious? Mystery runs in my family." Trebor: Huh? Uh, okay. I'll get Muroke for you. [Central Valley] Egg: When do you go back? "Senior, we go only tomorrow for Farmer's Market. Domingo only." Egg: Go sooner? "No, senior. Tomorrow only. " Egg: (growls) Never let Sid Lee out of my sight again! Boss will be very angry! [Outside the Orpheum Theater] Kyosuke: Why do we have to come here? Ojiichan: Baka! Hikaru-chan here! (points to poster of Atlantean play) Kyosuke: Oh...Hikaru. That's right. Ojiichan: You two can have fun today! Kyosuke: Hey, it's not like that! She and I are strictly platonic. Ojiichan: (ecchi laugh) He, he. If cat away, mouse will play. "Sempai? Is that you?" I turned around and saw a vision of loveliness staring back at me, with her flowing golden locks of hair, amid that slender yet taut dancer body of hers. Kyosuke: Oh Hikaru. Yes. I happen to be in the neighborhood. "So it was you that I sensed was here." Kyosuke: Yeah, me and ojiichan were just hanging out. "Ojiichan? Where?" Kyosuke: Well right...eh? (Kyosuke does not see anybody next to him) He hears a whisper in his ear. (Gambette, Kyosuke!) [At Candlestick Park] Muroke: You surprise me Manami. I didn't expect you to come to my friend's home directly. How did you know how to get here? Manami: I managed. So we are going to a baseball game? Muroke: Hai! Trebor tells me it's special, since it's the Dodgers versus the Giants. He tells me that have a fierce rivalry. And to boot, the Dodgers have a rounin Japanese pitcher pitching today. Manami: Who is that? Muroke: It's Nomo Hideo. Trebor: Yeah. He has such a funky motion. He's the first Japanese to pitch in the big leagues since Murakami pitched for the Giants back in 1964. Muroke: You sure know a lot about baseball. Trebor: You bet. I bleed orange and black. Muroke: Huh? Trebor: Those are the team colors. It's just an expression to show our spirit. Muroke: Oh, I see. Over in Japan, we also take our baseball seriously. We dress up and beat the koto drums in support as well. My favorite player of all time is Sadahara Oh of the Tokyo Giants of the same name. He is the worlds record holder for homeruns. Trebor: Sounds cool. If I ever to go to Japan, you gotta take me to one of the games. Too bad your friend Dana couldn't make it. Manami: Yeah; she still had that final paper to work on. Muroke: So you must be finished with your paper. Manami: Nope. But stressing over it is not going to get it done. Let's enjoy the game instead! Muroke: [Angel Island] #1: So, why are we here on this dinky little island rather than Alcatraz? Routa: There is much history to be learned here. Especially in our line of work. #1: Geez, you know I flunked history class. Routa: Then allow me to enlighten you. This is the holding area for the original Chinese immigrants before they were allowed into the US. The Ellis island of the West. Many were detained here and many died due to the squalor conditions and unspoken tortures here. So, they euphemistically called this Angel Island - the Angel of Death. #1: Very charming story, I'm sure. Routa: Being Japanese, your sensibilities must be different. #1: That doesn't explain why we are here. Routa: Out of pain and suffering arises the foundation of the brotherhood. #1: You mean the Triad. Spare me any more details. Sounds like the same old 'Godfather' storyline. Routa: As you wish to call it, it is not my concern. Being Chinese though means you always honor your dead. #1: So, even the hardened underground is superstitious. Routa: Bad feng shui. Bad luck shall befall upon the impenitent. [At a cafe] Hikaru: Sempai. We always seem to be meeting like this. Under these calamitous situations. Kyosuke: Hai. Hikaru: Have you heard anything from her? Kyosuke: No. I was about to ask you the same question. Hikaru: No. I haven't either. I guess she's not talking to both of us. Kyosuke: She must have her reasons. Hikaru: Maybe she suffered the same bug as I did. Kyosuke: What do you mean? Hikaru: I needed to find who I really was. I couldn't do it while I was around the people I cared for. I needed to be in an environment where there was no preconceptions. That's why I couldn't see you two for such a long time. Kyosuke: Yes, you told me before. I guess we all go through a period of wanderlust. You feel she's going through the same thing? Hikaru: I don't know exactly, but she's like a big sister to me. It is my intuition that tells me this. Kyosuke: You don't think she left me for another man? Hikaru: How can you think that way? Of course not! Kyosuke: How can you be so sure? Nothing is fated anymore. This is not a dreamy wonderland we are living in. It a world filled with fighting and strife and conflict. Hikaru: Sempai. I didn't give you up so lightly to Madoka if I didn't truly believe she loved you from the core of her heart. Yes, we don't live in a perfect world and we can't lead perfect lives. But you still have to believe in her. Kyosuke: I do. That is the only thing keeping me sane. My experiences have exposed me to a much darker side of humanity. It's consuming me little by little. I long for her not only because I love her, but because she probably is the only one who can save me from myself. Hikaru: Sempai! I never heard you speaking so dark and grim before! Kyosuke: I guess it's true. Everyone has a dark side. Mine's growing stronger and stronger with each passing day. (nervous laugh) Look at me. Wallowing in my own sorrow and bringing you down with me. Not very gentlemanly of me to do. Hikaru: Don't need to apologize. (she holds Kyosuke's hands) Kyosuke: So, why are you here in this city for? Got bored of New York? Hikaru: Me? I wonder that myself. Perhaps it's my way of running away from my troubles. Moving place to place to escape the bad memories. First Tokyo, then Hokkaido, and now New York. It might be a never-ending cycle for me. Next place you find me, it might be in Siberia! (they both laugh) Hikaru: Here. I have some extra tickets for today's show. I would really appreciate it if you can come. I have to go now before I am late for practice. Ja ne! There, she still was, like a sparkling gem, emitting her cheerful goodness towards me. Somehow, it felt like karmic retribution, for my suffering for the suffering I caused her. [Back to the ballgame] Muroke: Brrr! It's cold and windy! Trebor: Told you should have brought a jacket! You can tell she's prepared. (points to her black trenchcoat) Muroke: Yeah Manami. How would you know it would be cold? Manami: I wore this because it suits my feeling. I didn't know it would be cold. Muroke: Yeah. But Nomo's pitching a no-hitter so far! Trebor: Man. No offense Muroke, But I'm still rootin' for my Giants! Even though they are leading big, I hope he loses his no-hitter! Muroke: What do you think Manami? Manami: It's nice. Like a chess game. Muroke: I didn't know you played chess. Manami: We don't anymore. Muroke: We? Manami: I mean I don't. Excuse me. I have to go the restroom. (gets up and leave) Trebor: Don't you think your girlfriend is acting strange. Muroke: Stop referring to her like that. I don't want it to be awkward. Trebor: You're blushing man! Muroke: Still, I'm getting concerned. Maybe the stress of her studies is getting to her. [Along the seaside] I was driving until I ran out of gas. I had no money on me. So I abandoned my vehicle. It was the scenic route, right next to the ocean. It was dusk, with the waves crashing on the shore. I had nowhere to go. I peered across the horizon as the sun was setting. It was gorgeous sight. I had a strange feeling come over me. Of young people running carefree across, flying a kite. I was looking from overhead, as if I was a bird, a seagull, in free flight. So I stretched my arms out, as if I was spreading my wings and started to run aimlessly along the beach. It was a whimsical, carefree impulse on my part. I wondered why I did it. Then I started laughing hysterically. I never felt this sensation of bliss. I carried the trouble of my past on my aching back, literally. For a moment, I forgot about it all. Then the stark reality crashed on me again, as I felt the frigid cold raging waves cramp up my toes. "Ha ha ha ha ha! You cruel world! Might as well take me now!" "Stop ya hollerin'! I'm trying to listen." "Who are you?" "None of your business." "Then my business is not your business." "Shh. I'm trying to listen." "What? I hear nothing." "Don't disturb the peace of others. Go away." "You don't own this coastline." "Nature is not bound to no one. " "God damn! Why am I stuck with such crusty company? "Stop ya whinin'. I'm a straggler. I wander around." "What for?" "Don't need a reason to roam. I go where me mind wants to go." "So you just sit here and watch the clouds go by." "That the way me mind thinks." "Well, you seem to have a better plan than I do. So I might as well join you." [After the game] Muroke: Wow! What a masterful game by Nomo! Trebor: Shut up! The Giants lost! Muroke: Sorry. Trebor: All cripes. Ain't your fault. Yeah, he did good today. But he didn't get a no-hitter! Muroke: A one-hitter's good also. My friends back home would be envious if they knew I attended this game today. Trebor: They're big fans? Muroke: Yeah. NHK even is broadcasting the games he's pitching. Trebor: Wow, you folks in Japan really rally behind your players. Muroke: That is called Japanese pride. Don't you feel proud about the Chinese and all their accomplishments? Trebor: Suppose so. But it's hard to get worked up over things done in the past. Besides, here, you shouldn't worry about what race you are. It's what you do that counts. Of course, I'll be lying to you if I said race isn't a factor anymore. I would hope that eventually we'll get to a Star Trek environment Muroke: Yeah, it's not a bad dream to strive for. Trebor: By the way, what happen to your girlfriend? Muroke: Girlfriend? You mean Manami. She left already to finish up her paper. [At the theater] Paul: Woo hoo. Not another one. Hikaru: Uh yeah. (picks up the envelope) Janice: Impossible! Paul: Why's that? Janice: I was watching the whole time. Hikaru: What? Janice: The dressing room door. Paul: Just like you to do that. Hikaru: Why? Are you obsessed about the stalker? Paul: What a hoot! Janice: Shut ya yap! We gotta a show to do! (outside the theater) Ojiichan: Free show, free show! Kyosuke: You can thank Hikaru for the tickets. Ojiichan: Oh, I knew she was always a nice girl. Too bad you dumped her. Kyosuke: Ojiichan!!! (A figure hurries off in the background from the alley of the theater) Kyosuke: Who was that? Ojiichan: Look suspicious. But no time to find out. Play must come first! [Inside the heart of Chinatown] #1: What's this now? another ritual? Routa Kouji: Have our traditions been wearing you out? #1: I'm anxious and trigger-happy. When are we going to get some real action? I'm sure your brute over there feels the same way. (Kahn raises an eyebrow) Routa: The time for whacking is yet to present itself. This next endeavor should entertain your carnal desires. #1: So we are going to this skanky nightclub. Neon too! I like the way you think! Routa: Enjoy the women. My treat. Kahn: No woman for me. Woman big distraction. No good before fight. #1: Boxers types like him are all the same. Too bad. But I'll probably snag more babes using you as a decoy. So come on, Conan! (drags Kahn into the nightclub) [At the play] Kyosuke: It's like deja vu all over again. Ojiichan: Hai! As nice as our puppet show plays we held in our village. Kyosuke: You guys had puppet shows? How come you never showed us when we came over. Ojiichan: That was because your late okaasan was the one who held those plays. Using the Power!, she would animate all those wooden puppets moving all together all at once. Those puppets, she hand made every one of them. She was quite the story-teller. I scolded her for wasting time on it. Silly me. She was headstrong and would never listen to me once her mind was made up. That is why seeing little Hikaru-chan perform brings back those nostalgic memories. Kyosuke: How come otousan never told us about that? Ojichan: Ah, human secrets. Very complicated to understand. [Inside the club] We see #1 surrounded by gorgeous woman drinking. #1: It's great you gals speak Japanese. Babes: No trouble. Must cater to very rich Japanese who come here. #1:Yep. That's me! Rich Japanese macho man. "It's time for the nightly entertainment at the 'Forbidden City'. For your pleasure, we have the mystic man, the amazing Kiin display his amazing, mesmerizing talents. (We see a man dressed in communist blue garb and white hair tied up in a ponytail. He begins the act bending metallic items such as spoons, forks, knives.) #1: Woah. Neat trick. Chick #1: Oh, it's some trick or illusion. Who cares? Drink some more with me! #1: You're right. this club has some unusual acts here. Is this the norm? Chick #2: Oh sure. We have musical entertainment and hot dancers. Chick #3: Yeah. Dirty dancing comes later in the night. #1: I like the way you think! Kumpai! [The next day] (Manami comes in, still dressed in the dark trenchcoat) Dana: Are you well? You seem you didn't sleep much at all. Manami: I didn't. It was a late night for me. Dana: You are lucky to have time. You must have finish your paper already. Manami: Paper? Dana: The final paper that is due tomorrow. My mind was suddenly thrusted in panic. I realized I haven't even started on it. In truth, I was totally stumped. Who would I choose to be the "hero" of my story to relate to Odysseus? The problem was my family were ESPers, so I couldn't exactly write about any one of them. Everyone else I knew were more complementary figures. Why was I screwing around like this? What's worse, I did not have any recollection of what happened last night. It was a total blank to me. That was the scary part. Why was I blacking out and losing my memory? I was afraid of what was happening to me. Was it a case of my ESPer power going haywire on me? I was genuinely concerned. But I had no time to do anything about it now. So I gathered a few things and headed straight for the library. [Jamba Juice] Kyosuke: Are you okay? Hikaru: Heki, heki. How many times I have to tell you I'm okay. Kyosuke: It was weird. Hikaru: I know. (*flashback*) Kyosuke: Come on Ojiichan & Obaachan! Hikaru is waiting for us! It's not everyday we get to visit the backstage area. Obaachan: Oi, Oi! (*We hear a woman scream*) (Across, they see a dark figure running off) "I tell you, I saw him! I definitely saw him!" Hikaru: Janice, calm down! Kyosuke: Are you alright? Hikaru: I'm okay. My co-star, Janice thought she saw something. I need to calm her down. Sorry I can't give you the tour around backstage. Kyosuke: It's okay. Hikaru: Tell you what. I'll meet you tomorrow at 9am at Jamba Juice around the corner here. Okay? Kyosuke: Sure. See you then. Ojiichan: Ah! Kyosuke: Now what? Ojiichan: Someone of the Power! was here. (*end flashback*) Kyosuke: I'm just worried about you, given the past incidents. Are you sure you haven't received any threats at all? Hikaru; Yeah. You only in town till tomorrow, right? Let's make the most of today while you're still here. [At the club] #1: Man, that was some strong stuff I had. What a hangover. "You wake up now. Get out." #1: Eh? What happened to all the ladies? "Me don't understand. No speak Japanese. Go now." #1: Damn. Routa and his goon left me out to dry. [In the library] (We see Manami fast asleep) "I'm a goner. I haven't written anything yet and it's due Monday!" "Ah, you have a deadline too?" "Eh? It's you again. Da kappaneko." "Sounds like you're in a pinch." "Hey, you haven't told me who you are yet. "Isn't it terrible? You spend all this time trying to find out something and it disappears on you, eluding your best efforts." "What is that suppose to mean?" "When I get the old noggin' block, I harken back to my old experiences. Once you explore it, you find the words flowing back naturally." "Hey, where are you going?" (puts on some sunglasses) "Gotta use my shades and do some California dreamin'. (starts to hum a song) (Manami just then wakes up) Manami: Urgh...how eerie. Reflect on my past experiences. What can I learn from that? [Back at the park] It was hard to keep the secret inside of me. Everywhere, I seem to attract the stalkers. Was it god's retribution against me for being so selfish and uncaring when I was young? It was as if the furies were behind my back at every turn waiting to heap misfortune on me. The strange letters were becoming more and more serious and obsessive. I knew there was a distinct possibility that a freak was just biding his time and waiting to spring on me when I'm off my guard. I found myself looking over my shoulder more often than not. The uneasy feeling that somehow or some way I was being watched. With that apprehension, I found myself easily drawn to Sempai, wanting of the reassurance his presence meant. I felt a guilty pleasure spending time with him right now, if it were but a few moments before he needs to depart for Japan. But strangely enough, I would do it again. Perhaps it was Madoka's absence that allowed me to rationalize that this was okay. Was it so wrong to wish for companionship, if only for a short while? Kyosuke: Wow, this is beautiful. If I ever come back here, I'll be sure to take a lot of pictures here. Thank you for bringing me here. Hikaru: No, thank you. That's what friends are for. I hope Madoka returns to you soon. (off in the distance, we hear...) "Oh Ushiko." "Oh Umao." "Where are thou Ushiko?" "Where are thou Umao?" [At the Holiday Inn] #1: Ah, there you are Routa. What's the big idea leaving me there by myself? Routa: I thought you playboys would party the whole night. Or did those ladies out drink you? #1: Come on! No way! So that was it. Routa: Now the playtime is over. We have real business. We have found our man. #1: You have. Great! Let's go get him then. Routa: Not so fast. There is a complication. It seems a derivative group is the one in possession of him. #1: Deriva what? Routa: A rival group. The Dragon's claw might extend very far, but even within locales, there lurks hidden foes. This group we are dealing with is loosely known as the circle of the snake. #1: More reptiles. Great. So what so great about them? Routa: Rumored to have existed throughout back in the gold rush days, they are a loose, inferior derivative group of the great triads. The discriminatory nature of this country towards the Chinese forced them to be decentralized so they would not be easily caught by the local authorities. You may cut off the head but the tail will still move. That was the reason for the snake symbol. #1: So if they're so weak, we should easily be able to go in and bash 'em. Routa: Always thinking from the barrel of the gun, aren't we? It's not so simple, because it is rumored that the fugitive is being passed around through various scales of their clan. #1: So, we'll gonna just sit on our hands? Routa: Mildly amusing remark. We do have a lead to one of the Snake clan possible enclaves. #1: So where's this mystery place? Routa: You been to it. #1: You mean that 'Forbidden Club'? Routa: You served as the perfect decoy in your own way. Kahn here made note of the premises. #1: Ah, so you used me. Pretty sneaky of you, Routa. Routa: Not if I had 5 aces on me. Let's go. We have our work cut out for us in spades. [In the Asian Art museum] "You seem keenly interested in that urn. " "Excuse me?" (in Japanese) "I saw you seem fixated on these pieces. You have been observing it for awhile. " "Oh. You speak Japanese?" "Among many languages. I have a knack for many tongues. Shang Dynasty serving tray." "Yes. I was admiring the rough, yet distinctive style it has." "As you already know, the Chinese, through its many dynasties, have a long and rich culture throughout the ages. Food was among the driving forces behind this. And to serve great food, you needed a vessel worthy of serving it on. From the artisans at the top to the pottery makers on the bottom, painstaking detail was top priority. " "Wow, you seem to know a lot about the exhibits here." "Antiquities are my passion. First time here?" "Yes, it is. I'm actually doing research for my cooking class." "I see. A very devoted student you are. " "Thank you. You seem to be an admirer of the arts yourself." "Fancy I was admiring something else." "Which is?" "The pendant you're wearing. I could tell from the looks of it that it is very rare. Do you happen to know the origin of it?" "This? It was given to me as a gift. A family heirloom. " "Oh, in that case, you probably won't part with it." "No. I cherish it." "As you should. It is a lovely piece. But, should the inevitable should ever come, please feel free to contact me." (hands her a business card.) "Good day." "Hmm." (looks at the business card) Kiin Antique Shop. "Excuse me, I didn't get your name..." (the guy is gone from sight!) [Back at the hotel] #1: I don't see why we don't just go in and just shoot up the place. Routa: Reckless action will get us nowhere. Most of the Snakes clan are hidden away. Unearthing those dangerous elements will be the key. Identification of their network chain will be the key. Once that is done, we can negotiate on getting our man. With this, I entrust you with the task. #1: How am I suppose to do that here? I don't even know the language. Routa: There is but one language. (flips up a 10 thousand dollar bill towards #1) They all talk green. #1: I catch on what you're saying. What will you two be doing? Routa: We will be raising the money for the bounty. #1: You mean you posted a reward and you don't even have the money here? Routa: Moving large sums of money across international borders would only arouse suspicion. We are not so sloppy. #1: Oh, so that's why you're the treasurer. Routa: (nods) Kahn would be the meal ticket for the time being. We can find information through that track. #1: Yeah, they have horse racing here too. Yoshi. Let's get started! [At the antique shop] "What are you doing here Chan? Where is the subject in your stead?" "Me very sorry. Me lost him." "Bumbling idiot! " "Please! Don't turn me into a toad. " "What do you think I am? A sorcerer?" "Me see you do scary stuff." "Know ye well that if I wanted to turn you into a toad, I would have done so long ago. Now go! Undo your wrong and find him before they do." [The next day] [Stanford classroom] "This is the last week I will be instructing you all and as expected, you have proven to be a unique and interesting group to work with. Even though most of the literature discussed here are primarily Western, I hope you can find common themes with each of your respective area's classic literature. Through mythology, sagas, legends and other heroic stories, not only does it exude excitement and adventure to stimulate the reader, it puts on display the enduring hope of civilization despite human follies and frailties. Pandora's box may represent the human condition, through wars and pestilence and other ordeals, but it is hope that keeps us growing towards a better tomorrow. Man is not judged by how well he is during the good times, but how he endures during trying times. That is where heroes are created, great and small. I am looking forward to reading each of your final papers. Dana: Where's Manami? She didn't come back to the room last night either. [At SF State University] (Kyosuke is wandering in the hallways, looking for the room.) (He bumps into someone, spilling the folders he is carrying) Kyosuke: So sorry. "I should be the one who is sorry. Ah, are you Kasuga Kyosuke, the photographer?" Kyosuke: Eh? How do you know? "These papers look like what I am researching now." Kyosuke: Oh, You're Nakagawa-san? "Hai! Let me help you with that. We can discuss in my office." [Back to the classroom] Instructor: Okay folks. Time to turn in your papers. (A figure comes crashing through the door!) Manami: Am I too late? Dana: No. We're passing it in now. Manami: Sorry about that. Made it in what they say... 'in the nick of time'. [In the office] Kyosuke: So we finally meet, Nakagawa-san. "Please. We're in the US now. You don't have to be so formal. Mei-ko would be fine." Kyosuke: Oh, here you are. The interview with Ozawa-san and some other papers that Tamaki-san wanted to pass along to you. "Ah. I look forward to reading it. Aso has told me so much about you." Kyosuke: Has she? We haven't worked together that long. "Your daring photo-journalism work in Bosnia has made headlines here. I follow UN related events very closely." Kyosuke: Yes. I do have to thank them for rescuing me. "Timing your visit here is most opportune. With this new material, I will able to make much headway in this research." Kyosuke: I am glad this could be of assistance to you. Might I ask you a personal question? "About what?" Kyosuke: About your fascination about this Nanking incident? "Fascination? That seems to be an odd choice of words. The research is all-encompassing project between me and other colleagues scattered throughout the country. Professor Tofune would be pleased." Kyosuke: But I see that you are Japanese. I wonder why are you digging around into matters that could prove disgraceful to Japan. Is it because you came from here? "Are you doing a probing expose on me?" Kyosuke: On the contrary. I only want to ask about your motivation. I'm sorry if the question offends you. It was something that I was wondering about you all through my trip here. "You definitely are unconventional. Let me throw the question back at you and ask you this. Is the cost of preserving honor and saving face override everything else? Kyosuke: That's a very subjective question. "It is, and both sides can give compelling reasons arguing each way. The one glaring omission to this equation is the lack of any story to serve as a counterpoint for future dialogue. Without this, the accounts of these events would be a passing memory and to the future posterity a forgotten unknown. Can you tell me what you know of this Nanking incident which you term it before you embarked on it in this project?" Kyosuke: I'm afraid nothing at all. However, when I saw those inflammatory pictures depicting all those cruel scenes, I couldn't believe my eyes. There must be another reason. The so-called evidence that Tamaki-san showed me, I thought must be a fabrication. Since these pictures originated from Westerners - primarily missionary types, it seems like a plot to shame my country Japan. "There are ugly things people do that of course they don't want others to know about. There are also people who don't believe there was a Holocaust. But my agenda is not to blame people. It is to research accurate accounts of events that transpired in the greatest war the world has fought so far. Historians can debate among themselves on what are the relevant causes and effects. In general, history doesn't excite people. But for those who do care, this is for them." Kyosuke: But why be so graphic about it? And how can you tell if it's real or not? "I ask you this. Given your expertise in photography, what is your opinion? Were any of these photographs disingenuous? Kyosuke: No; not the ones I've seen. But that in itself doesn't prove anything. "I agree. That is why I'm conducting this research now to find out more about it. This Nanking affair is just one of many events in the timeline. Finding the accounts from actual Japanese soldiers there on the scene would help balance the accounts. " Kyosuke: Oh. I forgot to give you this. (hands her the soldier's journal) Kyosuke: Ozawa-san told me his bunk-mate gave him this before flying his kamikaze mission. Perhaps it contacts one of the accounts you are looking for. "I appreciate this. This will be very valuable." Kyosuke: Then if you will excuse me, I will be going now. [At Berkeley] Muroke is walking to one of the classes. "Yo Muroke. Long time no see." Muroke: #1! What are you doing here? How did you get here by yourself? "Photographic memory does make up for my lack of directional sense. Whoa. I see why you like to come here. Lots of gorgeous honeys here." Muroke: Stop drooling and tell me why you're here. "I need your help man. " Muroke: What? No. Master is gone. I swore I would not engage in the business again. "Listen. I really, really need your help. I need someone with computer skills to trace transactions for me. Plus you're so much better with this English than I am. Come on." Muroke: I'm telling you no! I want to wash my hands clean. I've got class to go to. [Kyosuke and Ojiichan, up at Coit Tower] Ojiichan: Waisai! What a beautiful city here! K: I'm depressed. Why did you drag me out here? Ojiichan: Why? Good sight. Not enjoying it? K: How can I be enjoying this when she is still out there. Tomorrow will be my last day in America. OJiichan: More reason to enjoy now. K: I thought my bond with Madoka was unbreakable. I must have been severely wrong. Ojiichan: No... Kyosuke. Everything go wrong for people all the time. Your bond is looser but not broken. But you have to make it up. K: (cynical laugh) Ha! What can I do now? Madoka is somewhere in the US, leaving me, this forsaken hooligan to wallow in the sorrow I created. I am truly pitiful! Ojiichan: Sulking do you no good. Many great samurai warriors facing impossible situations before. What will you do? Choose to lie down and die or stand up and fight and die in honorable battle? Never give up. You must chase your beloved and search for her here in America and prove yourself to her again. That is the only way for you now. K: Prove myself to her again. I must find a way to prove myself to her again. [Near the end of the week] [Assignment time] Professor: Everyone, I enjoyed reading each and every one of your papers. Out of the batch, there are a few that really stand out. Since it is the last day, I want to highlight those stories for all to hear. Dana Kim. Please read your paper. Dana Kim: I... Professor: What's wrong? Dana Kim: I don't think I can do it sir. Professor: What is the problem? Dana Kim: I have but...I have to go... (she darts out of the classroom, leaving the essay on her desk!) Manami: Excuse me professor. I'm her roommate. If you want, I can read her essay for her. Professor: Please do then. Manami: An essay by Dana Kim, titled: Heroic tragedy They say that the unlikeliest of heroes come in all shapes and sizes. That can be said for the subject of my essay. For that person is my grandmother - a diminutive 4' 10" 70 year old who is still going on strong, braving the harshest of winters in my homeland of Korea. She is very traditional in all respects, doting on all the grandchildren she has, including myself. Yet she does not spoil us, and can be stern when needed. From the look on her gracefully aged, kind face, you couldn't tell the tragedy she endured more than 50 years ago, of which I recently learned of before I came over here. It is a very personal disgrace that few women of her era would dare reveal. You see, she was a "comfort woman" during World War II, a euphemism used to mask the true horror associated with that term. She, like many young girls, were takened from their families to be later "takened" by the soldiers. She lost something special that we all treasure that can never be returned. She endured being a "comfort woman" for two whole years before the war ended in 1945. The reason why I picked her as my unlikely hero is because like Odysseus, she did not give up living. Because of the stigma attached to it, many committed suicide. She could have been another victim, giving in, and taking her life to avoid the lifetime of shame. She did seriously consider that option. But she decided for herself that it would be too selfish of her to take the easy way out. Her country was in ruin from war, and it needed able bodies to rebuild it. Whatever the consequences of her "scarlet letter", she was willing to live with it. So she took the "hero's journey", fighting the whole way to make it, working in the fields to grow food and later in textile mills to make clothing. She, like many others, wanted to return her homeland back to a shape resembling its former glory. Along the way, she met my grandfather and they got married and started a family. She behaved honorably in a fashion that was befitting of her character. She was kind, yet firm and honest. It was that firmness and honesty that set me in line. Because of my family background, my impression of Japanese people was not flattering. I had a fierce anti-Japanese stance, and took up history to learn of all their jingoistic actions throughout the Asian continent. That was when I learned that for my overseas study, I had a Japanese person as a roommate. I was horrified and requested a change immediately, but it was too late. So I decided to quit the program and stay in Korea for my studies. My grandmother learned of this and had a serious talk with me. She was like Odysseus, imparting some words of wisdom to his son Telemachus, learned from his travels of 20 years of wandering. Judge people not by their race, but who they are. It was then she revealed that she was a "comfort woman" during the war. I was shocked and confused. I questioned why she wasn't upset with the Japanese for what they did to her. She merely replied that she wish the perpetrators would pay for their crimes. But more importantly, no one else suffer the same crime. I still did not understand, so she told me about apples. No matter what, there's going to be good and bad apples. Just because of a few bad apples, don't say all the apples are bad. With that analogy, I understood. It is her hope that I can expose the bad apples so they don't spoil the other apples around it, but at the same time not damage the good apples in the process myself. That was the wisdom she wanted to impart on me. To be a strong person who can fairly judge people. That is why her journey, during the horrors of the war and post-war years helped to build a better future for us. I'm happy to say that I took her advice to heart and changed my mind, coming over here and sharing the dorm room with my Japanese roommate. I would hope she would forgive me for initially misjudging her. So once again, my "hero" is not the flashy type with tales of grandeur. But despite that, she is a true hero whose own life journey is well worth noting. That is why in my eyes, she would forever be my hero. [Back at the Sunset District] #1: This is a nice house your friend has here. Muroke: Don't draw attention to yourself! #1: Hey, I can't help it. It's my style. Muroke: I can't believe I'm doing this. #1: Hey bud. It's like everything else. You need the money. Muroke: That's what got me in trouble in the first place. #1: You don't want to be a burden on your friend. Muroke: (grumbles) yeah. I need to be independent on my own. Too bad for the Greenwood gang I won't be back. #1: You have a gang of your own? Muroke: Ah, it not of your business. When I do get back to Japan, I'll going to tell Kaori all about it! #1: Not if I beat you back to it. Here. Start your computer magic. [Back at S.F. State] (Kyosuke on the phone) Kyosuke: No Kurumi. I put the film inside the right desk in the red room. "Having trouble?" Kyosuke: A little. Getting my stuff back from Japan to here to prepare for the exhibit is proving to be a bit more difficult than I anticipated. "Take your time. The ceremonies will begin on August 15 to mark VJ day. " Right after I decided to stay here longer to search for Madoka, I had a call from Nakagawa-san asking me whether I would be interested in the participating in the UN ceremonies and put my pictures of the war up for exhibit. Perhaps the nightmare I have been experiencing would be at least be mitigated. Nakagawa-san was already having her people publicize it by passing out flyers out to the students and having them spread the word. This would be a second showing of my pictures. On the side, while I was waiting for my material to arrive, I was assisting her in her research on Nanking by examining the material she had. But most notably, I was transcribing the old unknown soldier's journal who apparently was on the scene at Nanking. [Back at the International House] Manami: There you are Dana. Are you okay? Dana: Is the professor angry at me? Are you mad at me? Manami: No, of course not. I've read your paper for you. It was a beautiful piece. I mean from the subject material, I think everyone could understand what you were going through. I'm sorry I made you feel uncomfortable. Dana: No, I didn't mean it like that. I didn't know the professor was going to have me read my essay aloud. Manami: I haven't been a good roommate at all. I been neglecting you as a friend. Dana: It is okay. I really enjoyed being roommates --I mean friends with you. I'm curious. What did you write about? Manami: Oh, I wrote about a family member like you did. It is only natural to look towards home for inspiration, especially since both of us are far away from home. Speaking of which, since the summer session is over, What are your plans? Dana: I plan to continue on. How about you? Manami: Oh, I'm going back home. I enjoyed my experience here, but I to recharge at home. As you can tell, I haven't been myself lately. Dana: Does your friend know that you're going back? Manami: No. I plan to tell him tomorrow. Please come along with me. I need your support. Dana: I will. Manami: I have to go visit my brother. Here is my paper for you to read. See you later. Dana looks at the paper My Pop Hero. You may find it quite quaint to choose my father for the topic of who I regard as my hero. Though unassuming, content with his landscape photographs, in his quiet style, he performs the little things, we as his kids take for granted. But looking back, I can see now that he has takened the heroic journey in life. As with most heroes, he came from a background of humble beginnings compared with my mother's family, even to the point of adopting my mother's side family name. But it was a random act of kindness on my father's part that started his hero's journey. He may not have pulled a thorn from the lion's paw, but instead patched a falcon's wounded claw so he can fly again. It was that act of kindness that led to a chance encounter with a fair maiden in the village which would become my mother. The two of them got along quickly as two young people in love would. My father wanted her hand. But it would not be easy, for my grandfather stood in the way. As in all quests, there are challenges presented to the hero to prove himself worthy of the goal. My grandfather was skeptical of his intentions and mistrustful of any strangers outside the village in general. Frankly, my father and him were in different classes of society so to speak. It was a case of pride and prejudice. He would never consent to giving away his daughter to an interloper. So in the tradition of a Brothers Grimm fairy tale, he gave him the impossible, magical challenge to fetch snow atop the neighboring mountain to serve as ice for his drink by the day of the festival. Fetching the golden fleece might have been an easier task than this. But my father really loved my mother and so in the grand tradition, he trekked out onto the mountain to give it his best shot. He tried, with all his effort and might, but he was clearly no mountain climber. He couldn't even scale even a few feet of it. Yet he kept trying arduously. Trying to be brave and giving a good effort wasn't going to be enough. He needed some intervention from the gods. Well, the gods were indeed smiling on him. Because miraculously his feathered friend aided him in his quest. Right before the deadline expired, he laid out the snow from his backpack to the astonishment of my grandfather. My grandfather, though a sore loser eventually consented to the union. The real challenge lied ahead. My father would encounter tragedy and perils as Odysseus did through his journey raising us. My mother died young, leaving him to be the only one to care for us 3 kids by himself. Though he lamented in his sorrow, whose similar loss he shared with Orpheus, he continued his work nonetheless. Though he specializes in landscape photography, to make ends meet, he would take any photography job he could land. That would mean doing pictures ranging from weddings, birthdays, and other special events to the mundane such as simple passport photos. With all of us now having graduated or in college, he is now free to pursue his passion often in very dangerous locations. He has been to Thailand, Indonesia, and is now in location in Burma taking snapshots of the beautiful, exotic scenery. His adventurous spirit have been passed on to all of us. Though still his unassuming self, he sports a mustache now to reflect the years that pass. For me, he would always be my pop hero. [Down at the oceanside] "Soothing, isn't it." "Yeah. Staring at the waves and sky and clouds makes time go by so fast." "Restless, are you?" "Hmm? I'm not sure." "You're ain't suited for this life. Only a crusty old timer like me is. " "What makes you say that?" "Youth with energy need to get ta wanderlust out of their gut. " "What are you talking about? I can be carefree and forget my troubles here. I tired of running away from a mystery." "Dang your lousy lyin', boy. You got ta look on ya face. You ain't goin' ta fit in. This coastline ain't big enough for ta two of us. " "So you're kicking me out as well. Is there no place I can fit in?" "Vacation's over buddy. Ya goin' to da depot where ya can hitch a ride to wherever. Enjoy ya last sunset here tonight." [Saturday rendezvous] Trebor: Today's your big day buddy! Muroke: Thank you. But are you sure this is going to work? Trebor: Sure it will. Girls go crazy over fish. It's a nature thing. [Back at the I-House] Dana: Come on Manami. We need to get going. Manami: Yes. How do I look? Dana: That is very different from your usual dress. You're not wearing your glasses. Manami: Yes. I want to surprise him. [Back at the Holiday Inn] Ojiichan: Time to wakey up! Kyosuke: Eh? I could sleep in. Ojiichan: No time. Need to visit Manami before its too late. Kyosuke: I thought you wanted to wait till she was finished with her final exams. Ojiichan: Baka! Yesterday was her last class day. You not going back, but she will, so see her before she goes. We will surprise her! [Back at the coastline] "Here." "What is it?" "Morning food. Best food da Garbage Gourmet can offer. Eat it before the ants do." "My last meal before you send me away?" "More for me if ya don't want it." [At the aquarium] Trebor drove us down to the Monterey Bay Aquarium which was his idea of a romantic spot for me and Manami, while he would keep Dana occupied. I was quite shocked when we picked them up. Manami was not wearing her customary glasses, nor was she wearing the dark, brooding clothes. Instead, she was wearing a pretty, pink summer outfit. I never saw that side of her before. I knew it was my chance to make my confession. Yes, I have an attraction for Manami. I finally admit it. Subconsciously, I have been harboring it for these many months. It would explain why I was often staying in the office with her when we were both working for Haroken-san. Why I submitted her essay for the contest. Why I often try to seek her out despite the threat of violence from her twin sister Kurumi-san. Now, as we were pulling into the parking lot, I was getting more and more anxious. Was I more afraid of making the confession, or the response I would get? No matter what though, I had to make my move. [At the dorm] Ojiichan: Surprise! Manami-chan! Kyosuke: Hello? Manami-chan? Hey, she's not here! Ojiichan: So na. Where is she? [At the tour] Hello. My name is Lina and my partner here is Leon. We will be your guides for today. In this 15 minute tour, we will guide you through the many wondrous aquatic wildlife in our aquarium, many which are indigenous off our California costal waters. The highlight of this exhibit would be our stingrays whom we affectionately nicknamed Sylvie and Mack. At the end of the tour, we will highlight the plight of several endangered species and the crisis regarding the reefs. Please make sure you are orderly and you may ask questions at any point during the tour. Now if y'all can come this way, we can start. [At SFO] Vivian: Thank you Hikaru for seeing me off. Hikaru: No problem. Hope you have a good vacation to Europe. Vivian: Are you sure you will be okay without me? Hikaru: Heki, heki. That means I'll be fine in Japanese. Vivian: You got the phone numbers of my friends I left with you. Hikaru: Yes. I do. Vivian: Don't hesitate to give them a call at any sign of trouble. Especially if that creepy stalker is involved. Hikaru: Stop worrying. I can take care of myself. Remember, you showed me some moves. (Does an arm thrust) Vivian: Alright girlfriend. Ciao. That's goodbye in Italian. If I meet some studs, I'll be sure to bring 'em back for us to share. Hikaru: You're such a tease. Get on before you miss your plane. (They hug and they wave at each other as she is leaving). [Back at Stanford] Kyosuke: Geez, are we just going to wait for them here? Hey, ojiichan, what are you doing? Get your hands out of that drawer! Ojiichan: Oooh. Girl's room. Underwear galore. (A book hits Ojiichan's head) Ojiichan: Oww! That hurts! Kyosuke: Obaachan. You're the only person who can keep ojiichan in line. Obaachan: Oi, Oi! Ojiichan: Ah, too boring to stay here. Let's go to Manami! Kyosuke: How? Ojiichan: Lookee here. (points to brochure) [Back at the bus stop] "This is it bud. " "I'm a bit hungry." "You shud have eaten the morning food like I told ya before our hike here. Come on. We go by the aquarium where we can get some food there." [Back at the theater] Paul: You're here early. Hikaru: I just sent my friend off. She's going on a trip to Europe. Paul: Ooh. European boys. They're so divine! Janice: Oh, come on. They're just a bunch of stuck-up pretty boys. I should know. Give me a full-blooded American beefcake anytime. Paul: Speaking of beef and cake, here. Hikaru: What's this? Paul: Some appetizers. My roomie is taking some cooking classes, so she left me some of what they're making. Janice: I never say no to food. Hikaru: Thank you. (tastes it and murmurs) Paul: Not good? Hikaru: No. It just tastes very familiar. [Back at the aquarium] (We hear the roar of the sea lions in the background) Trebor: Call of the wild is making my stomach roar too! Me and Dana will get fetch lunch. You two have some quiet time alone. Trebor was being a pal and diverted Dana with him to get us lunch, leaving me alone with Manami. She and I were walking towards an area, where there weren't a lot of people around. But each step became heavier and heavier and I was sweating up a storm. I only had one chance to make a good first impression so I... Muroke: Excuse me Manami, I have to go to the restroom. Please wait here. (Muroke rushes off) Manami: But Muroke... (she stumbles over small rock, and her contacts pop out!) Manami: Oh no. Not again! (vision is very murky now) I need to find them. (She stoops down, feeling the ground very carefully.) (Nearby, in the bushes...) "Don't be scarin' any folks. Just nab the bag and examine later. That's how ya do food snatchin'. You need to learn this when you get to the big city. Coast clear. No head above. Now go!" Manami: Yata! I found them! (grabs the contact with both her left and right hand.) (*Smack!*) (*Smooch!*) I felt someone gently knicking my forehead before I felt a foreign object on my lips, full-on. And then it was gone. I was shocked. How could Muroke play such a dirty trick on me, kissing me when I was helpless and defenseless? That was what Komatsu or Hatta would do. I turned my head in disgust as I slowly proceeded to put my contacts back in. [Back to the bushes.] "Go, go, go! Someone saw me!" "Damn rookie. Check the ground for little kids also. Now you get no food." "Forget it. I lost my appetite. (wipes his lips) Let's go back to the station." [Back to the scene] Muroke arrives back just as Manami finishes putting her contacts in and turns towards him. Muroke: I have something to say. Before you say anything, I've been meaning to tell you this for a long time. So out it goes. I like you. I like you a lot. I would hope you would feel the same way about me. Manami: I think you got the wrong impression of me. I'm not as easy as you think I am. I don't like people who resort to such tactics. But given our past association, I'll let that indiscretion go. But I can never be interested in someone who has no class. Muroke: Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't know you were looking for that in a person. I'm sorry if my outburst was too shocking for you. Manami: It definitely is! I would normally leave now, but for the sake of my roommate Dana, I'll put up a good front. But after this I would never want to see you again! (2 figures approach them) Trebor: Ah, here are the two of you. Time for lunch! Muroke: Excuse me. I have to go to the restroom again. [At the Holiday Inn] #1: Roger, breaker breaker come in. Agent Big Gun calling in. "You need to use the proper protocol." #1: Oh, K.C. You sound so lovely today. "A lively mood you're in. What do you have to report?" #1: Seems like the fish you're looking for was caught by a rival gang in town. "Are you positive it is the one? #1: Nope. Not with Akira's past on the line. I'm gonna id the goon myself. But I need your help. "What do you need?" #1: Some info. This gang is super duper secretive. The only clue is that they're related to the order of the snake. I need your access to the Interpol/XIA or whatever worldly databases you guys got there to dig up whatever information you can find. "Understood. Will rely information when it comes in. Over and out." #1: Good. Now I wonder how my buddy Muroke is doing on his date. [The long trip back] It was the best of times. It was the worst of times. It was a line uttered by one of Charles Dickens' famous characters. Those haunting words seem to be ringing through my ears. After lunch, we drove back. Not a word was spoken inside the car. When we made the drop-off, she made a curt good-bye and left, adverting her eyes towards me. It was truly shameful. The ride back to San Francisco, I felt so dejected. Trebor tried to console me, but I was lost in my thoughts. What had I done wrong? Why was she so furious with me? Was it because she didn't feel about me in that way? Maybe more like a little brother perhaps? Trebor: Here we are. Muroke: This is not your home. Trebor: No. It's Ocean beach. You can take a timeout there. [At the Aquarium] Ojiichan: Ahh, fish is very pretty! Kyosuke: Ahh, the fish is that way. Ojiichan: (head swivels back from checking out the ladies) Oh, there. Kyosuke: So where is she? Ojiichan: Hmm. Very sure she would be here. Kyosuke: You would think two guys with the Power! should be able to find Manami and her friends here. Couldn't you do some telepathic scan or something? OJiichan: Ah...good idea. (puts his fingers up to his head and starts to chant an incantation) Kyosuke: Could you be a little more quiet? People are staring. Ojiichan: Ah ha! Kyosuke: What? You found her? Ojiichan: Very strange residue. Kyosuke: Say what? Ojiichan: When Power! used, can sometimes feel aura residue. Strange. Very different Power! feel. Kyosuke: You're not making sense. Let's go back to her place and wait for her there. Obaachan: Oi, oi! [Back at the ocean] Muroke: Brr! It's cold! The cold stinging breeze blowing in my face. Trebor: Yeah man. Figure it would suit your mood. Muroke: You mean rejection. The bitter, cold dagger stabbed into my heart by Cupid. Trebor: Boy, you can dramatic with your words. So you were shot down. Big deal. She's a nice girl, but there are other fish in the sea. You gotta get over it. Muroke: I appreciate you trying to cheer me up. But it's going to take some time. I'm still shocked by the whole thing. Trebor: Let it sink in. That's why I took you here. When I get that sinking feeling, I would come here to drown my sorrows. But you're not legal. So we'll just sit and veg out. Get you back in touch with your zen. Muroke: Hmm. That wouldn't be a bad idea. Just sit out here and have the elements whirl around me. One thing for certain though. My heart may be shot, but my precious memories remain. [Stanford] Dana: Are these more of your friends? Manami: (nervous laugh) Yes. This is my brother and grandfather and grandmother. Dana: Hello. I leave you all alone to catch up. Goodbye. Ojiichan: (waves hand) Bye, bye! Manami: Ojiichan! Get that lecherous grin off your face. Ojiichan: But she is such a nice girl. Manami: What are you doing here? Ojiichan: Going back to Japan soon, ne? Manami: Hai. Ojiichan: Me and Kyosuke and obachan will be staying longer. We haven't seen you for so long, so catch you before you go. Manami: I see. I'm sorry for being rude earlier. It's just that I had a long day. Ojiichan: Date-o, eh? Manami: I don't want to talk about it. Kyosuke: Bad experience? Manami: Hey, I don't talk about your love-life! Oops. Gomen oniichan. Kyosuke: No, no Manami. It's okay. By the way, thank you participating in the seance. Ojiichan told me about it. Manami: I'm sorry I couldn't pinpoint Madoka-san. In fact, after that experience, I haven't been feeling like myself. Kyosuke: Ojiichan! What did you do to her? Ojiichan: No blame me! Obaachan can fix her up, ne? Obaachan: Oi, oi! [Back to Monterey] (Egg approaches a homeless man on the beach nearby the abandoned truck) Egg: You there. Can you hear me? (no response) Egg: Hey. Listen. You see this person? (shoves a picture in his face) "Let me alone." Egg: Look. The man here is a fugitive. He very dangerous man. Need your help if you can. Give you ten dollars if you know. "Know nothing. Go away." Egg: Humph! [Back at the International House] We see obaachan put her fingers around the temples of Manami, as if doing some Vulcan mind-meld procedure. We hear obaachan murmuring. We see a bright flash of light! Kyosuke: Woah. Isn't this too intense? Ojiichan: Ah, mind maladies are her specialty Power!. (Manami has this crazy look on her face) Manami: (raises her hands up menacingly) I am Goza the destroyer! I shall come and destroy your entire world! (Kyosuke and Ojiichan jump back!) Manami: (giggles) Boy, you two are a bunch of fraidy-cats! It's easy to scare you two. Kyosuke: Manami! "Oooh. I am a corporal void spirit in search of my master. I must reunite with it. Kyosuke: Cut it out Manami! Manami: It isn't me! Ojiichan: Eeee! (We see Obaachan floating up in the ceiling above them!) [At the bus depot] During the ride, my mind was distracted. That was no ordinary, accidental kiss from that girl. That kiss awoken some hidden sense inside of me. I felt like a different person altogether. But I still didn't remember how I got here to America. But I was back to where I started. There were too many things to try to even comprehend. It was a long day. I was tired and hungry. Now that I was a bum, I needed to apply the techniques that my seabum buddy friend taught me. (As Sid slips into an alley...) Hikaru: (swivels her head) Who was that? Was that the stalker? (She bumps into someone!) Hikaru: Excuse me...eh! (Her face becomes flushed) [Back at the Holiday Inn] (We see obaachan sleeping peacefully on the bed) Kyosuke: Is obaachan okay? Ojiichan: Hai! Her senses all mixed up, so she need good long sleep. Give time to her to recover. Kyosuke: What's wrong with her? Ojiichan: Kasuga women always had the Power! to channel different personalities. Manami seem to have intercepted a soul during the seance. Kyosuke: Don't tell me it got transferred from Manami's body to obaachan? Ojiichan: He he. You young people watch too many movies. No, it is not exorcist. It was an echo. Kyosuke: Echo? Ojiichan: Hai. The alien in Manami's body is gone. Memory residue still in her. Like short-term memory. Obaachan tapped into this echo memory. Need time for memory to dissipate away. Kyosuke: There is still so much unknown things regarding the Power! Ojiichan: Hai! The Power! can be very dangerous if used the wrong way. Kyosuke: Look whose talking! Ojiichan: He, he. Power! is good for fun!. Fun is good! [At the antique shop] Five men enter the store in staggered formation. "Yo, commie boy. We're here." "You arrive unannounced, young Lo. What is the purpose of your visit?" "You know my father. He sent me as his errand boy to get his stash." "It has been misplaced. It is in the process of being retrieved soon." "That sucks man. Waste my time. You sure run a sucky business. Get it soon or my dad will be pissed! I'm going back to the club!" (outside) "Oww! (feels the back of the head) Who hit me?" "Not us!" (inside) "You know. You should be more respectful of your elders. " [Nearby the Orpheum Theater] Hikaru: #1! What are you doing here? #1: Um, hanging out here, Hiyama-san. Hikaru: Fancy I would be bumping into you here of all places. #1: Yeah. I didn't reckon. Hikaru: It's funny seeing you. Reminds me of the old days where you and Muroke were driving that limo. #1: Yep. Those were the days working the Lincoln limo. Working for the Master was a hoot. Hikaru: The Master. I haven't heard that term for a long while. #1: Oh, I'm sorry if I brought up something sensitive. Hikaru: No, no. You misunderstand. I never had the chance to ask about what he was like when you worked under him. Before I came along. #1: Oh that. Not much stories I can tell you. The guy was just plain wooden. Very brooding. Cold and calculating. Hikaru: Was he ever in love? #1: In love? That's hard to imagine. Hmm, maybe that time in Hong Kong. Hikaru: What do you mean? #1: He resided in Hong Kong to build up his rep. He was in a fight club of sorts. He was surrounded by the scum and hell of the earth. There was nothing remotely of beauty except for that flower girl. It was a brief, fleeting romance. Something to salve his savage heart. Hikaru: What happen to her? #1: Oh, the usual thing. She left him for another man. Same old sob story. Hikaru: So he was never a wimp. #1: Nah. Doesn't show it, but was always the tough guy till the end. Say, I don't know if I should be telling you this but he... (*ring ring*) Hikaru: What's that? #1: Umm. My beeper. I really need to take this call. Nice meeting up with you. I'll call if I'm in the neighborhood. See ya. Hikaru: Bye. (#1 rushes out thinking) #1: [Final time at the International House] Dana: Hello Manami. Manami: Dana, you're back. Dana: Your relatives left? Manami: Yeah. They were their typical zany selves. Dana: Are you feeling well? Manami: Yes, much better. Dana: You're not busy tomorrow, are you? Manami: No. Not really. Why? Dana: I'll tell you tomorrow. Manami: Oh, you're such a spoil-sport. Now I'm going to be thinking about it the whole night! [In an alley] "Git out of here Chinaman! This is my dumpster alley! Get back to ya own kind!" Sid: (walks out) Humph. Go back to Chinatown where I started. I can at least snag scraps at the Golden Dragon restaurant. What is so great about this 'Golden Hills' here? Full of disappointment everywhere. "Disgruntled young man, aren't you?" Sid: (looks up) You're that old man selling those trinkets. What are you doing out here in these parts. "Tourists go everywhere. Go where business is. " Sid: Oh, I forgot to thank you for the trinket you gave me. "Gift return part of you. You slowly return back. Understand?" Sid: Not exactly. "You understand later." Sid: I wish I can do something for you. "You take my gift, you give me a gift later, okay?" Sid: Sure, if I had anything of value. "When in time comes, I will ask for it." Sid: Sure. If you give me something, I'll be in your debt. Eh? (The old peddler is gone!) [Back in Japan] [At Ikeda temple] "Come on 'Suka! Everyone is waiting for us!" Hasukawa: I'm coming. "You're still worried about Koji-san?" Hasukawa: Yeah. I appointed him to be successor of Greenwood, but he hasn't formally accepted my proposal. He said he would decide at the end of summer vacation. "Have you checked your email?" Hasukawa: No. Not yet. If he doesn't take it, I need to come up with a backup quickly. Why do all these bad things always happen to me? "It's your luck of course. Perhaps at the temple they can do another spirits cleansing ceremony for you." Hasukawa: Not again. "Here's the rest of the gang." Mitsuru: (dressed in ceremonial garb) Welcome! Thank you for dropping by. Hasukawa: You don't have to be so formal! "Still, it's sad. The four of us use to hang out together. Now it's us remaining three. "At least I can take my brother's place in spirit." (A woman dressed in white ceremonial garb comes out) Hasukawa: N-n-nagisa? What are you doing here? Nagisa: I have mended my ways and have return back on the path, thanks to Mitsuru-san. He has shown me the way. I realize the folly of my foolish actions in the past. I no longer seek vengeance; only peace and enlightenment. Hasukawa: Is this a trick? Mitsuru: Now 'Suka! Is that any way to be talking to my fiance? Hasukawa: Fiance? (faints and starts to have a nose bleed) "'Suka! 'Suka! Oh no! He has a fainting spell again!" [Back at Yoshii's] "Who's there? What are you doing by the piano?" "I'm sorry. I was just looking at it." "Oh, you're that sassy girl. Geez, even you young Japanese girls are so bold these days." "Apologies. I'll go into the kitchen." "Grumph! Why are you here so early? You have a thing for baby grands?" "Oh, I was being nostalgic. I seem drawn to it." "Come on." "What is it?" "I can tell when a musician is aching to play. Go ahead. You piqued an old man's interest. There's no one else here. I'm not going to bite." "My fingers can't say no to your request." (She starts to play a familiar melody.) [August 6] I appreciate you taking time out on a Sunday to help me out." Kyosuke: No bother for me. I have already met my friends and sister. I will be busy tomorrow seeing her off on her trip back to Japan. "What an auspicious day." Kyosuke: Why so? "It is the day my hometown was hit by the first ever nuclear bomb." Kyosuke: Eh? You're from Hiroshima? "Hai! I did not tell you that?" Kyosuke: No. I thought you were born here. "No. I moved out here years ago." Kyosuke: May I ask why? "I came here to the US during the 1970's during the trauma years. Ironically, one of the main reasons was the Watergate trials." Kyosuke: Watergate? You mean that scandal with the American president? "Hai. A great lesson and test of how far the sanctity of the executive office would override the public right to know. Woodward and Bernstein's unyielding journalistic drive to seek the truth in the matter despite the personal and national cost it may have. I imagined it must have weighed on them heavily. That was what impressed me about this country. It was the freedom and courage to be able to drive at the truth that appealed to me. Japan was not an environment conducive towards that. So I decided to make the jump abroad." Kyosuke: So ka. "Your journey to the former Yugoslavia peninsula. Can you explain your intentions over there? Kyosuke: To be frank, my reasons in the beginning were not as altruistic as you would think. I probably thought it would be a worthwhile endeavor for a young man to take. I didn't consider how graphic or traumatizing the civil war would be as I viewed it from my own eyes. "Your impressi