H	A 	R	D
			|<	O	R

		K i m a g u r e	O r a n g e	R o a d	
			Contemporary	F a n f i c t i o n

			by Robert Kwong
			ver 1.01
			Completed September 12,1996


Based on characters created by Matsumoto Izumi.

As you can see, this is fanfiction harkening back to the old Kimagure Orange
Road series. The turn of events and timeline depicted here occur right after
Shin Kor I, but before Shin Kor II. This is the graphic reaccount of the
adult lives of Madoka, Hikaru, and Kyosuke. Like the Shin Kor novels, these
stories contain adult themes, situations, and language, parental guidance is
advised. Please read the full disclaimer at my web site for full details.

HardKor Web Site (With Disclaimer and back-stories: Book A and Book B
chapters)

http://www-ucsee.eecs.berkeley.edu/~rk/HardKor.html

My SuperPage for the General Kimagure Orange Road enthusiast
http://www-ucsee.eecs.berkeley.edu/~rk/Kor.html

My contact email address for comments or further correspondence:
rk@soda.berkeley.edu

Feel free to email me your impressions and suggestions for the series. Beta
readers always welcome. If you want new stories emailed to you, please mail me
at the above address.

Thanks for reading my stories! I hope you enjoy reading it as I did writing
it.

Robert Kwong
Ark Productions -96-


Legend:
H=Hikaru Hiyami
M=Ayukawa Madoka
R=Ryusei Haroken
K="Darling" Kasuga Kyosuke

[]:	Denotes Scene Changes
<>:	Indicates thought bubbles
(* *)	Signifies special effects sounds
//	Shows the author's comments

Book B: 	Chapter 3: Heist

[In the administrative office at XYZ Studios]

Manami: It's nearly quitting time. You should go now and ask Hikaru now before
you miss her.  (*Ring*) I'm going to get that.

#2: You're right. I'm going. (Waves bye) 

(Darts down the hallway and nearly runs into Hikaru going the same way!)

H: Watch it Ni-san! (//Ni is number 2 in Japanese) You nearly ran me over!
What's the big rush?

#2: You're the person I was actually looking for!

H: You were? Ryu-san must have dispatched you to find me. I hope I'm not too
late.

#2: You, oh no. I came on my own. I have a small but humble request to ask of
you.

H: (starts to walk towards the office) I'll try to help if I can. So what is
it?

#2: (walks with her) (* nervous He-he*) (*gulp*) I... uhhh,...I-I-I heard you
use to draw before.

H: Me? I did dabble in painting, but that was such a long time ago.  (pause) I
no longer draw. <after my love left me by myself>

#2: A pity to let such a talent go to waste.  I was wondering if you would
think about taking up the art again.

H: I don't see why I should right now, with my rigorous dancing schedule and
all.

#2: (blush) I feel kind of embarrassed to ask, but I'm creating a computer
game, and I need someone to help me draw some of the character profile
graphics. I'm wondering if you were willing to help me out.

H: Gee,...I don't know about that...considering how tight my schedule is. And
you don't even know if I'm good or not.

#2: I'm sure you're great, at least better than my scrawny chicken-scratches.
And it'll only take a few moments of your time. I'm sure you can squeeze it
in, can't you? You're the only person I know that could help me out. PLEASE!

H: I like to help out...but I don't know if I want to go back to it. It's been
so long. Well. Here we are. (opens door into office)

#2: I'm really begging you. Please, please, please, please, PLEASE! (gives
exaggerated bow and stays in that position. We see Manami giggling across the
office.)

H: Please rise Ni-san! You got me. I'll draw, I'll draw! But I'm not promising
you any masterpiece. I'm just going to do my best.

#2: (gushing) OH THANK YOU Miss Hiyama-san! You're not going to regret it. I
promise I'll make it up to you. I'll even teach you how to do email. Just let
me get you a sketchbook and drawing utensils. (dashes to the desk to fetch
supplies)

H: <I already am! //regretting it> (to Manami) Gosh, the things men pull to
try get you to do something!

Manami: (whispers back) I know. Primitive things, aren't they?


H: (smiles back) You're right.

#2: I have it all here. (present art supplies) You can easily place these
items in your purse. If you're board, you can easily whip it out and start
drawing.

H: Duomo. (gives slight bow) 

#2: By the way. Master's not in his office. He's off at some appointment and
he's not back yet.

H: That's fine. I'll wait for him inside his office. (enters and closes door)

[Hikaru sitting on the black leather couch, staring at the sketchbook in her
left hand and twiddling with the coloring pencil with her right]

It has been quite a long while since I last picked up a paint brush or even a
coloring pencil. High school, final year, in art class. Oh how pleasant those
days were. My last days of freedom. A calming influence drawing was. That and
looking after Hino Yuusaku.

Or was it he who looked over me? It doesn't really matter, for both helped me
get over Kyosuke for a brief period. Constant arguing and bickering; that was
the way it was between us. But I do remember Hino, in his annoying, irritating
way, pushing and egging me on, encouraging me, to pursue my dreams, whether it
be in art or dance. Telling me things straight as it was. He didn't let me
have time to think of anything or anyone else. I remember the support he gave
me, after I lost my role in the play; how he told me to never quit, to never
give up, even in the face of insurmountable or impossible odds.  To always
give my best, and more. To reach deep within, to find out what I truly was
made of. He was there for me when I most needed it. He had always been a
brotherly figure to me, ever since the beginning. But our relationship was
altered forever between us after that fortnight. 


That was why the shock of his death changed everything for me. I didn't
realize how much he really mattered in my life. He was gone forever and I
never had the chance to express my true feelings for him.  Now I had the
burden of mourning for the two men I loved and lost. That was why I now pined
for Kyosuke now, for he's the only one left. And why I stopped drawing, in
memory of Yuu- kun. For drawing would only remind me of Yuusaku, and bring
back the painful memory of that bitter day to me.


I remembered the last picture I ever drew: it was of Hino of course. Amid a
misty backdrop, high up in the mountains covered with hyacinth was a small
dojo. Inside the simply constructed bamboo dojo structure was Hino. He was
clad in his ivory white karate attire, his blazing lucky red bandanna tied
around his forehead. He stood proud, resolute, his arms thrusting out with
power and passion. He was alone practicing, or so he thought. Peering through
the window unnoticed was a girl adorned in a multi-flowered kimono, and
holding up a Hawka style umbrella up to shield her from the light misty rain
falling. Her eyes filled with longing for this young warrior, wanting to tame
his wild spirit.  

That was why I was so reluctant to agree to Ni-san's request. It has been a
long time since I made that promise to myself to cease drawing in deference to
Hino. But now, I realized I had to come to terms with his death. I have
already made my peace with Yuusaku when I went back to Hokkaido.  I could
imagine him telling me to move on and forget about him and just live my life.
He would have wanted that way. To not let his death affect the way I live. To
actively explore all the possibilities life has to offer. To not close myself
off to any new opportunity.  That, I shall do for him and more.  But I could
never forget him. (starts to doodle on the sketchpad)


[Back outside the office...]

#1: Hiya folks! I'm back! And I bought a little present.

(*Bow Wow!*)

Manami: Oh! It's a dog! (Bends down to stroke it) He looks so royal and
dignified. What's his name?

#1: Taki. He may be a little long on the years, but he's still has a lot of
spunk in 'em.

#2: You know Master doesn't approve of pets in the office. You should get 'em
outta here before you get caught! Now where I put that disk (opens drawer with
sleeping Jingoro in it)

(*G-r-o-w-l-l-l-l-l-l!*)

Manami: What's wrong boy? Hey! (dog bolts towards the desk)

(*M-e-o-w-w-w-w-w-w!*)

(Jingoro leaps out from cabinet. What ensures is a crazy chase scene between
Taki and Jingoro all around the office, causing mayhem and destruction and
generally causing a big, fat mess. Finally, Jingoro leaps into the waiting
arms of Manami while she uses the Power! to create an invisible wall to block
Taki from approaching.

#1: (reins Taki in by the leash) Cool it boy! I'm sorry Manami-san for his
behavior. He usually is not like that, chasing cats and all. He's is more
accustomed to chasing down something else.  Guess old age is catching up to
him.

#2: Whew! (wipes the sweat off his brow) I never seen a chase end so abruptly
before!

#1: Hey, don't sell Taki short! He doesn't have his young legs anymore. Just
ran out of gas.

#2: Well I don't like him! That dog's trouble, I can just feel it. 

(Door opens and in pops Ryu-sei) 

(We see #1, #2, and Manami in a frozen "I've been caught" stance) Uhh,... Hi!

Taki: Woof! Woof! Woof! (acting very excited and trying to jump all over
Ryu-sei, but is still restrained by Manami's force field)

#1: (grabs Taki's collar) Calm down boy. <I never seen his so razzled before>


(Ryu-sei walks through mess as if oblivious to the whole thing. As he
approaches his door, everyone lets out a sigh of relief.)

R: (without turning his back) Next time, keep the dog and cat outside. (door
close)

Manami: Geez! I thought he was going to blow up in front of our faces.

#1: Yep. He showed remarkable restraint in handling the situation. That's his
trademark. Nothing phases him.

Manami: Well, I guess I'll get towards cleaning up this mess.

#2: And I'll stay behind and help out.

#1: Suit yourself.  I'm going to bring Taki home and give him a bath.

Manami: One more thing before you go. Kurumi just called a while ago and wants
to remind you to meet us at this gym this weekend. (hands him written piece of
paper)

#1: Will do. Gotta keep my promises.

#2: I still can't believe you lost to a girl! 

#1: Shud up! I meant to lose on purpose. Good day to you, Miss Manami Kyosuke.
(nods head and leave)

[Inside the office]

H: Oh! You're back. (quickly shoves pad into purse)

R: I hope I did  not startle you. 

H: No, you did not. 

R: Sorry to keep you waiting like that. I had a meeting with my writer. I know
you've been waiting in anticipation all this week to attend this play. But
there is a matter we need to discuss before that.

H: What is it?

R: (Takes out spiral-binded book and hands it to her) This is the draft copy
script for our production. I'm letting you have an advance copy.

H: I'm honored. May I ask why you're giving me this?

R: I want you to get a headstart in memorizing the lines.

H: But I don't have too many lines to begin with, if any at all. 

R: For your part, no. But I want you to be memorizing Jade's lines also.

H: Her part? But why?

R: Well judging from her abnormal behavior, flaky style, and erratic nature,
I'm believe she is prone to forgetting her lines, just like any preported big
star. You, being her "lieutenant" in a sense shall be there to prompt her. I
have to warn you though. The whole play is in English. I hope you're up to the
challenge.

H: <My English? Eeks!> I have to tell you that my English speaking ability may
not be up to what you think it is.

R: Don't doubt yourself. I'm sure you can handle it. You probably picked up a
New York accent. I'll get #1 to work with you. He has a good command of the
English language. (Looking at Rolex) I do believe it's time for us to depart.
We wouldn't want to miss our appointment with the "Jones", would we?

H: OK. Mind if I take a glance at this?

R: No, feel free to. 

[At the Ayukawa Mansion]

Kyosuke enters, throws his jacket down at the couch and just sulks right down
into the cushion.

M: (entering) Hi honey. You look depressed! Bad day at the studio?

K: To say the least. (looks up) Zowie! You look gorgeous! Why are you dressed
up for?

(Madoka is dressed in a slinky, low-cut black dress that leaves nothing to the
imagination!)

M: Silly boy! Have you already forgotten? Today we're attending that world
famous play, the Phantom of the Opera. We going to see it with Hikaru and
Ryu-sei. You can call it a "double date" of sorts.

K: Oh, so it is today. But why does that weirdo Ryu-sei have to come along? 

M: Because Hikaru wanted him to. Do you have a problem with that?

K: I think he's more suited towards playing the "Phantom" rather than going
out and socializing.

M: That's not a very nice thing to say! You'd better behave or you'll
embarrass us both. Just phase him out.  Unless you want one of your sisters to
hypnotize you instead.

K: (waves hands) NO NO! I'll be a good boy, just for you! 

M: Good. (looks at watch) You'd better go upstairs and get freshened up. You
look like a bum!

K: (grabs her in his arms) But I'm your own personal, lovable bum, ain't I?
(hands starting to probe...)

M: You sure are. But we haven't got time for that.  (Pokes his nose) Ne! If
you a good boy tonight, I'll make sure you'll get your "reward" at the end of
the night. (sparkle in her eyes)

K: (dirty grin) Don't worry. (flashes up to the top of the stairs) I'll be
done before you can say the "POWER!" three times.

[Hikaru is in the limo driven by #2, opening up to the first page of the
script, while Ryu-sei is busy making cell phone calls.)



				Cat's Play or
				Foxy Felines or
	<Insert your own catchy title here. I haven't got time for this>

				by Izzy "Cool Cat" M.
				Copyrighted sometime in 1994

Act I:

Scene 1:  <Opening: Jazz Intro: Snappy string thumbing of the bass followed by
the swinging hip-hop of the piano >

Spotlight falls on a lone cat-like figure sitting on a trashcan, with a
silhouette of a downtown landscape behind her>

(In a sing-song voice)
"Call me Ally, I'm the Alley Cat. You don't see me out in the open for I
prefer to hide within the shadows of the street. I have seen and gleaned upon
many interesting events in my time, but none as interesting as the tale I am
about to narrate to you. Not a pretty story, but a tale of woe, of sorrow, of
despair, and of angst. So dirty, so conniving, so deceitful, so contemptible.
But interesting nonetheless. Let me now recant to you a tale not so long ago
of a brawl of sight untold...

(scene changes and spotlight shifts to the streets where a troupe of dancers
start to enter in file. Here the dance routine begins)

It all began in the East side, the east side of town, where a rough and tawdry
bunch resided, led by cruel Kammy, the leader of her legion.  (spotlight
focuses on Kammy who does a dance solo) She may be the crooked ruler of her
domain, but she doesn't do it all herself. She has her sidekick, her
right-hand - I mean her right-paw friend, the fair and ever just Katherine or
Katie Kat for short. (Even longer and vigorous dance solo) Dem two were the
bestest of friends ever since they were wee kittens. She was kind and gentle
and just, but very, very meek. She hardly talked and just kept to herself. She
was the ever faithful cat everyone loved. But she was not in charge, Cruel
Kammy was, and everyone lived in fear of her rule over the city.  But things
not as simple as it was. Trouble was brewing in another direction, across on
the West side...

(Scene ends with a circular dance by all the cats out of the stage)

Scene 2:
(Sun falls. Music changes into a more colder, pulsating, biting piece. )

Ally: It's cat nap time for me. <*YAWWWWNNNNNN*> (stretches arms out and
slowly sinks into the garbage can)

(In enters Kammy Kat, dressed up in a tuxedo like suit) Kammy: I go by Kammy
and I don't aim to please. I control these criss-crosses here all over the
Eastern Side. No one comes by here alone, no one ever does, lest they feel the
wrath of my claw! (waves claw) (*Snarls*)

(Emerging from the background is the same bunch of cats wearing similar
suit-like cat clothing) Chorus: No one dares come here, no one ever does.

Kammy: And let me introduce my sidekick, my closest confidant. Kate's her
name. She doesn't say much, but she hurts just the same. (short twirl around
across the stage by Kate) 

Chorus: She doesn't say much, but she hurts just the same.

Kammy: The both of us, along with our gang, we rule this area, no one picks a
fight with us and lives to tell the day.

Chorus: No one picks a fight with us, and lives to tell the day. (All break
out in dance surrounding the two main cats)

(At the end of the dance...)  All: THAT'S. WHY. WE'RE. THE. COOLEST.
CA-A-A-A-A-T-T-T-TS-S-S-S-S IN T--T-O-O-W-W- W-N-N-N-N!

Exit stage. 

Scene 3: (Scenery change to a more industrial look, with iron skeleton
building structures) Alley cat pops out of the garbage can. (*M-E-O-W!*) That
was such a wonderful catnap. Humph. They're done so soon. Yep, despite the
cruel rule of Kammy, everyone was relatively happy with the atmosphere in the
East side so to speak. No crime, no lawlessness, no nothing., But trouble was
brewing a plenty just the same.  Why right now in the West side...

(Saxophone solo: Sexy, eerie music starts to play)

Ally: (whispers) A rival faction was secretly developing, led by another cruel
cat in her own right: Fatima Feline.

(In enters a sexy cat wearing a fur coat and plenty of jewels. She slinkers
onto the stage, in a slow, sensuous manner)

Ally: She indeed has a bone to pick with the East Siders, as she was kicked
out of their gang. She was accused of being lazy, jealous, and disobedient. A
very bad cat. But she was very seductive, will all her feline charms and
devices and she was dangerous with a capital D. The kinkiest kitten you will
ever see.

Fatima: Truly, I am a bad pussy cat. And don't you forget it. I do have a bone
to pick with my former brethren.

(in enters a group of her underlings, all wearing black and sunglasses) 

Fatima: They booted me out, because I was better than them, the fairest of
them all , and now they're gonna pay with their skins behind their backs.
(licks paw and gives a snarl) I can't blame myself for being so beautiful, so
superior in every way. Don't hate me because of my looks. Just blame yourself
for being so ugly!

(Vaunts into a rhythmic, twisting dance)

Chorus: Oh she's the nastiest cat you ever met, and don't think about making
her you own private pet. For she takes after no one, except herself, to one
day be the queen over this whole city.

Fatima: Now they put me on my heels, they made me bolt. Said I was a
flea-bitten wannabe who was selfish and unkind.  So I start my own kingdom
down here in the heart of the West side.

Chorus: She'll start her own little kingdom down here in the West side. 

Fatima: Now you see I'm the big action, the cathoula around these parts,
except for those annoying East siders, who I am to get rid of. Those damn,
uncouth commoners who can't compare with me. I soon shall be rid of them with
my own crooked scheme.

Chorus: She soon shall be rid of them, with her own crooked scheme.  (phrase
is repeated until it is softer and softer and they slowly back away and blend
into the shadows)

#2: (intercom) We're here! 

R: Thank you #2. Wait for my call to pick us up. (looks up from reading
papers) It's time.

H: (looks up herself and arranging her dress) I help be drawn to this script.
Very oddly written, but very engaging. I can't help not putting it down.

R:  There will be time for reading it later. Izzy is such a peculiar
character. I should introduce you two sometime, if I can ever find him. For
now, it's time to relax and enjoy yourself. Like the American saying goes,
"All work and no play makes Jill a dull girl."

H: "It's Jack."

R: Ah, so you know the saying too. 

H: Well you do pick up a few things here and there if you live there long
enough, especially in a place like N.Y..

R: How true, how true. Now will you allow me. (extends hand to lead her out of
limo)

H: Why thank you. 

(Hikaru, upon changing at her apartment on the stopover is wearing a rather
conservative white evening gown, while Ryu-sei is adorned in all black, as
usual, but with an additional full length overcoat and cape. ) He waves off
#2. 

H: Brrrr! (crosses arms together) I didn't expect it to be this chilly in the
evening tonight.

R: Do you want to go in now? 

H: No. We should wait for Madoka and Sempai.

(Ryu-sei takes off his overcoat and drapes it over her shoulders)

H: Ooh! Thank you.

R: I wouldn't want any of my cast members to catch a cold, would I? So Mr.
Kyosuke-san's your sempai?

H: yeah, and Madoka-san. They older than me by 2 years. I think they're
seniors right now in college.

R: Waseda U, is it not? 

H:Right.  How did you know?

R: Heard it as a passing remark by Ms Ayukawa-san. I happen to be a alum too.

H: Is that so? How long was that?

R: About 6 years ago.

H: Wow! What a coincidence. What did you major in?

R: Business administration. You never did have the chance to attend college at
all, did you?

H: (Sigh) No, I didn't. I went straight to New York upon finishing my last
year in high school. I've been practicing dance ever since.

R: That's too bad. Attending the U. is such an experience one never forgets.

H: I'm still young. I probably have time when I get as old as you.

R: I may look a lot older to you, but you're only as old as you look. 

(silver-gray metallic Mercedes pulls up. Coming out is the snappy, looking
handsome looking, princely figure Kyosuke followed by the alluring Madoka who
hands her keys to the valet. )

H&M: Hi! (hugs each other and starts to compliment each other on their dress)

R: (gruff voice) Greetings, Mr. Kyosuke-san.

K: (cold) Likewise.

M: Let's go in before we miss any part of the show. I know you've been dying
to see this Hikaru.

H: I know! I can't wait.

[At the high-rise apartment, #1 is wearing a T-shirt and jeans and having a
beer, with Taki dog sitting beside him. #2 enters]

#1: Back so soon?

#2: I just dropped them off I have to pick them up later in about 2 hours. I
just waiting their call. Hey!  What's that mongrel doing here? And on the
sofa! I just cleaned it yesterday!

#1: He ain't no mongrel. He has purer blood and better lineage than you'll
ever have.

#2: Oh yeah? How so?

#2: He's happens to be the byproduct of the best breeds: A civilized, trained
Doberman mixed with the wild, but free-spirited Alaskan wolf.

#2: That's the strangest combination I ever heard. Very tacky.

#1: His name is Taki.

#2: I though you said you were looking after a dog fro your friend for just
the day.

#1: I was. He moved. So we have to keep him.

#2: Are you crazy? We can't keep 'em here. Don't you know the landlord doesn't
allow pets here?

#1: He's no pet. And yes, I know about the restriction. I'll take my chances.
It's my apartment after all and I'll do what I please. I keep you around,
don't I? You like a mangy mutt around here. (squeezes his cheek)

#2: Oww! Don't ever do that ever to me again. That stings. And I'm nobody's
mutt. I'm going to take a little nap. (points to dog) And he better not
disturb me!

#1: That reminds me. I have to go out now to attend to an errand. You look
after him while I'm gone, ok?

#2: No way I'm going to...

#1: See ya. (Shuts door)

#2: (shakes fists in the air) Noooo! You can't do this to me. Again. (sits down on couch next to dog) 

Taki: Bow Wow.

#2. Yeah, yeah. The same to you too.

[Inside the playhouse situated at the front. Seating arrangement from right to
left: Ayukawa, Kasuga, Hikaru, and Ryu-sei. ]

(The music, the Phantom of the Opera, fills the air)

[Ayukawa's pov]
<Ahh. This is so wonderful. Me, Kasuga, and Hikaru finally back together, at
least for this while. (takes a peek at Hikaru and Kasuga) Everything is coming
into place now. All of us are chasing after our visions of the future, for a
better tomorrow. I am so lucky to be with the two best friends I have in this
world. What could be any better than this? How I thank my lucky stars at the
way things have turned out. Out of so many pitfalls and turmoil. And it has
been a perfect night so far. Great music, good acting, a pleasant atmosphere.
I can't wait for "dessert" later tonight between me and "superman". //Read
Shin Kor I for reference info>

[Kasuga's pov]
<I must be the luckiest guy in the world. Here, I'm sitting next to the two
most beautiful women in the world. How perfect can it be? I must be in heaven!
Too bad I can't get to enjoy at all.  I wish the whole day could have been
this nice.  But with troubles at work and the flashback I experienced last
night, I've been worried about my direction.  And what's worse is that Ryu-sei
guy is here with us. What a party pooper.  What a showoff. I vow that I would
save up enough money to return the his "loan" which I used to buy my
engagement ring. I can't wait for that day; I would act smug and just throw
his stinking money in his face.  Those rich types are all the same, thinking
they can get anything they want because of their money. But he was really just
a big loser.  He could probably make the perfect double for this Phantom
character. But he was the least of my problems. What I wondered was how was I
going to deal with the more pressing issues? What was I to do about work and
my experience in Bosnia? That was the problem growing up and taking
responsibility. You have to confront your problem and make the tough
decisions. You can't always depend on the Power! to bail get out of trouble
all the time.  I wondered how I was going to hide all these problems from the
two women I care for?  Will things going Madoka's way, I don't want to worry
her heart out about my problems. And Hikaru's been through so much on her own.
Things are just starting to go her way. I didn't want to be the one to jinx
her good luck. I had no one to talk to about my problems. So for me, it was
the best of times, it was the worst of times all at the same time.>

[Hikaru's pov]
<I finally get to see the play I've been waiting for all my life: the Phantom
of the Opera. The hit Broadway show I couldn't see at all during all my time
in New York. Ironic that I had to come here to Tokyo in order to see it. And
it certainly doesn't disappoint either. It was all I had envisioned it to be.
Revolving around the poor tormented soul, the Phantom, who commits these
heinous, villainous acts because of his appearance.  He has to shield his
ugly, scarred face.  behind a mask. and is in essence hiding his true self: a
kind soul who is trapped by the pressures and ignorance of his world's biases
and stereotypes.  Their ridicule driving him to be the person he now is.
Feeling compelled to commit these grievance acts in order to lash out at this
unfair world. Trapped in his own private prison within his mind. I empathize
with the Phantom's plight.  Despite all his crimes, all his faults, I would
forgive him. I know how it is not to get a fair shake.  Looking back, I find
that life has not given me a fair shake. I lost my first love, Kasuga to his
real love.  And probably the only other person who I would even consider,
Yuu-kun, was taken away from me by Providence's cruel hand before we ever had
a chance. All the other men I encountered were just there for support; each of
us using each other in order to pass through another day. Vulgar it was, but
it was not love.

I still felt the same familiar, warm feeling, the tempestuous vibes sitting so
close --so near Darling. I felt tempted to clasp my hand onto his; to rub my
shoulders up against his. I knew it was wrong to think of committing such
acts, especially when he was already engaged to be married, but there was
nothing I could do about these feelings that were swelling up inside me. But
just as I was about to lose control, I took a glance across towards Ryu-sei,
sitting very still, unmoving, wearing those dark glasses, the black cape
behind his back, gazing endlessly into his own private void. I sensed and
realized that both he and the Phantom possessed a tortured soul. So old, and
alone, keeping to himself, and staying out of society's way.  A stranger, a
hermit stranded on his own private island penthouse out in this crowded
metropolis.  Certainly, he did not feel comfortable in this type of venue.
Darkness was his friend. He too, like the Phantom, had something to conceal,
hiding behind those sunglasses which might betray his innocent eyes.  Was I
the person to unlock his secrets?

Funny I was feeling sorry for him considering I'm the sorry figure. He was rich and successful. He had 
already attained his goals. He possessed all the toys a man could ever  want. He was a kind and generous 
person, helping me, this pitiful soul out at every turn, despite every misfortune. He even took time out of 
his busy schedule to accompany me to see this play which he has probably seen a thousand times. He 
always seem to be there for me when I most needed his support. Was it just mere coincidence? He did 
more for me than any man I have ever know. He didn't have to but he did, on account of me. And he asked 
nothing of me in return, except that I do my best. Tonight, he is here with me to act as a buffer between me 
and Sempai. I should be thankful, grateful for him for all he has done for me. Yet it was Kasuga I was 
lusting after, not him. I simply did not have the same feelings for my benefactor that I had for Kasuga. Was 
I wrong in thinking this way? Was I using him? 

I remembered vividly a play I saw with Sugizawa back in New York. It was about
a man with a long nose named Cyrano. (glances at Ryu-sei) He pined for a
beautiful, fair damsel named Roxanne. He was madly in love with her. But he
dared not express his feelings towards her on account of his ugliness, for
fear of shocking her. He preferred to admire her from afar.  Another suitor
arises, who is the exact opposite of Cyrano: handsome and perfect in every
way. (glances at Kasuga) Except for the fact he did not possess Cyrano's wit.
He was a dullard. So he enlists the help of Cyrano in his efforts to woo
Roxanne. Despite being caught in this precarious dilemma, Cyrano obliges him,
resigning himself to the fact that he could never have her. Instead, he is
content in professing his undying love for her through a series of letters
written by him, but bearing the suitor's name. Of course, the suitor gets the
credit and wins Roxanne's heart easily. Years pass and Cyrano and Roxanne meet
again. She is a widow now. Initially, she was put off by his "ugliness", but
soon grows accustomed to it, and instead becomes enamored with his
personality.  Through a series of chance encounters with him, she later learns
that Cyrano was the one who wrote the letters and that he was really the one
she loved. But with all tragic love tales, it is too late. Cyrano, suffering
some medical complication, is on the verge of death. However, before dying,
the both of them confess their love for each other and there it ends.  Could I
ever grow to have intimate feelings for Ryu- sei? Or would I forever won't get
over Kasuga. Was I being fair to either one of them? Would I make the same
mistake Roxanne did?

[Somewhere lurking behind the shadows...]

(We see the shadowed outline of a woman's figure flanked by some men. She is
wearing a purple hat and a black veil around her face.)

Guy 1: "Everyone is in place for tonight's heist Mistress. I anticipate no
complications at all, just like the previous raids."

(Nods her head.)

Guy 2: "It should be clean and easy job this time. My men has already scoped
out our designated target list of wealthy victims and are standing by..

Guy 1: We're strike when the packed play lets out. They should allow us enough
cover to blend in and escape.

(makes a gesture with her right hand)

Guy 1 &2: Yes mistress. (bows) We shall be off. We're return back here to home
base when we're successful once gain with obtaining the jewels.


[Back at the high-rise apartments, with #2 sitting on the couch tapping away
at his portable]

Taki: Ruff! Ruff! Ruff!

#2: Yikes! Will you knock it off! You're going to get me in trouble! And keep
your dirty little paws off my keyboard!

Taki: Ruff ruff! Ruff ruff Ruff!

#2: Fine. You win. What is you want? You're hungry? You are, aren't you? So am
I. (walks over to the kitchen and opens up the fridge)

#2: Sorry we don't have any dog food for you to eat. I didn't know you would
be staying longer. Let's see...(plucks at takeout cartons) Sweet and sour
chicken here, chow mein here, and ...

Taki runs over to the refrigerator and sniffs at a particular carton.

#2: You want this one here boy? Let's see what's in here...why its takoyaki.
But that's #1. I don't think he would like it if you ate it up...Hey!

Taki grabs carton and runs off.

#2: You can't do that! You gonna make a mess on the carpet. 

Taki ignores him and starts eating from the carton.

#2: <Well no skin off my back. And serves #1 right for bringing him here. Now
he can get a dose of his own medicine!>

(*Ring Ring*)

#2: That must be master calling.

(picks up phone)

#2: Mosh moshi.

"This is the karin here." 

#2: Oh hi karin-san. (landlord) What can I do for you?

"I'm been receiving some complaints from your neighbors about the noise level
emanating from your apartment. They say it sounds like a dog barking. Is that
true?"

#2: Oh, there must be some misunderstanding. 

"Which is..."

#2: Uh...you see, ...it's like this. We don't have a dog here in the
apartment.

"Of course. It's against the rules."

#2: Of course. I know that.

"So what's causing this barking noise then?"

#2: (thinking frantically...)Well,...it's...like...this...you see...I have a
perfectly good explanation for this. It's very embarrassing...but it's me
who's barking.

"What? You? What the meaning of this? Why may I ask are you barking?"

#2: It's part of my treatment. That's right...You see, I have this extreme
phobia of dogs. Everytime I see one, I just curl up and freeze in shock at the
sight of one. It's really horrible having to deal with this condition all my
life. So I decided to get some help. My psychiatrist recommended this
treatment for me. It requires that I bark like a dog in order to ally my fear
of them. "

Taki: Bow wow!

"What was that?"

#2: Uh....that was me demonstrating what I mean. Ruff Ruff. You see. It's me.

"Well all this sounds very far-fetched..."

#2: I understand perfectly what you mean sir. I'm sorry for causing so much
racket, but the doctor says that the louder I bark, the less afraid I would
be. I didn't realize I was disturbing my neighbors. Gomen.

"Well can you try to keep it down? People are trying to sleep around here.
I'll let this go this time .But I don't want to hear another complaint.
Understand?"

#2: I do I do. Thank you sir. You have a good night. (hang up phone) That was
close. If he had gone up, I would have been a goner. (shakes finger at Taki)
Now you behave until #1 gets back. Then it'll be his responsibility.

Taki: Ruff! 

#2: (mutters) Mangy mutt you...

{Back to the play where the crowd is  exiting out into the streets]

H: The play was simply wonderful. Thank you so much Madoka for inviting me
along.

M: My pleasure. I'm so glad you finally had a chance to see it. Hearing the
audio CD of it is one thing, but seeing it is another. It was quite an
experience, right Kasuga?

K: (not paying attention) Oh yes it was.  Great play, great play. 

M: So where are two off to next?

R: You're welcome to join us for dinner, unless you have other plans.

M: As a matter of fact we do. But thanks for the offer. Well good night!

R &H : Good night.

(*SCREAMMMMM!*)

"Help me! Help me! Someone is robbing me."

K: Oh no! It's must be those jewel thieves in the news. 

M: Go! Quick! I'll be fine here by myself.

H: (to Ryu-sei) You'd better go too and help out Sempai.  Me and Madoka can
fend for ourselves.

(Across all parts of the crowd: Help!  Argh! Ahhh! Get your hands off of me!
Thief! Robber!)

Kyosuke looking on and seeing the fleeing robbers.

K: Damn! They're getting away. And I can't use the Power! Too many people
around .Wait! (whips out small, pocket size camera and takes several key shots
of the robbers, in flight and looking back. *CLICK* *FLASH* *CLICK* *CLICK*
*CLICK*)

"Darling! Help!"

K: That's Hikaru! I'd better go. (tries to run, but is slowed and blocked off
by the panicking crowd.  Out of the way! Get out of my way!

We see Hikaru struggling with her assailant. As Madoka rushes over to help,
she is grabbed from behind by another assailant.

(*Chop*) (blow to the back) (* Oomph!*) Madoka looks up and sees Ryu-sei
knocking her assailant off her. Just as he is about to finish him off, he is
distracted for just an instant by

"Ryu! Help me!"

R: Hikaru....(turns towards her)

(*Slash*) 

Ryu-sei turn back to the original attacker, but he is fleeing the scene. He
then shifts focus on the other robber. But as soon as he sees Ryu-sei
approaching, he runs off too.

H: We have to go after them! 

R: No use. They're already long gone. Are both of you all right.

M: I'm fine. Just feeling shocked at being attacked from behind like that.

R: How about you Hikaru?

H: (visibly shaking) I'm not alright. Oh please hold me Ryu-sei. (sinks head
into Ryusei's chest. Ryu-sei, initially shocked at this gesture, eventually
wraps his left hand around her.)

R: It's alright. I'm here to protect you. It'll be ok. 

K: (huffing and puffing) Is everyone ok?

M: What took you so long? And what happened to you? You look worse off than we
are.  (Kyosuke's clothes are wrinkled and out of place)

K: I tried to get here as fast as I could, but I had to squeeze my way through
the crowd.

(*Police sirens wailing in the background*)

K: What about you? Did they attack you?

M: Yes, both me and Hikaru. Luckily, Ryu-sei was nearby to subdue our
attackers.

K: Did they take anything?

M: (checks herself) Heavens! They took my ring!

K: (examines her right finger and is dumbfounded. puts hands to his face)
Those bastards! How could they do take our engagement ring?! I'm going to kill
them!

R: Easy now. We have to be calm in a situation like this. The authorities are
already here. Let us keep cooler heads in this matter.

K: (snaps back) Oh what do you know? They didn't steal anything of yours, did
they?

M: Kasuga! I'm shocked. Ryu-sei-san is right. We do have to  be calm. 

K: Well I don't have to like it! (crosses arms and turns his back to him)

R: (to Hikaru) Feeling better now. Did they hurt you in any way?

H: (meek voice) Just a voice bumps and bruises here and there, but it's no big
deal. But they took your gift away from me: the jade bracelet.

R: Oh, don't worry about that. It's just a material token that I can easily
replaced. What matters is your safety and well-being.

H: Thank you. I needed to hear that. (looks down at his right hand dripping
blood on his shoes and the concrete ground) You're bleeding!

R: Oh, so I am, so I am. Funny I didn't feel it. It's probably just a scratch.

H: It's more than that. You have to treat it or else it will get infected.
Here, let me help. (takes out from purse a red bandanna and neatly wraps it
around his hand like a tourniquet)

H: There! That should stop the bleeding.

R: (smiles) You're a regular Florence Nightingale.

H: (blushes) Stop it! You're embarrassing me.

R: I am? I didn't think that was possible with you. (look across the street)
News van coming. I don't like mingling with the media. Let's slip out of here.

(Also arriving on the scene...)

K: Shiori! What are you doing here?

Shiori: I'm here to report the latest jewel theft live. I was at the station
when I heard the police radio reporting it. So I came down as quickly as I
could. You must have gotten my beeper message.

K: No, I was here as the crime happened.

Shiori: You were? This is great! Did you get to see their faces? 

K: No, but I managed to capture several snapshots of them.

Shiori: You did? That's wonderful. You seem to be the key eyewitness here, as
usual. Here. (hands him the microphone)

K: What am I suppose to do with this? 

Shiroi:You're suppose to report about the scene. 

K: But I know nothing about reporting on TV.

Shiori: Oh, just wing it! I'm operating the camera in your place. We're be on
the air in 5 4 3 2 1 and

K: (timidly raises microphone to mouth) Uh...Hello Tokyo. This is junior
amateur reporter-in-training Kasuga Kyosuke reporting live at the scene of the
latest heist by the notorious jewel thieves. I'm just outside this theater
house where me and several hundred others were exiting out, after having watch
the play the Phantom of the Opera. It seems the thieves targeted several areas
of the crowd, causing confusion and panic, and scattering the crowd as a
result. The bandits struck quick, looking to take expensive items such as
rings, bracelets, and watches. Why, my fiancee, Ayukawa Madoka had her ring
stolen. (grabs her hand and pulls her into the picture) Say hi to the viewers.

H: (waves hand)  Hi Tokyo!

K: Fitting earlier reports, the assailants were are dressed in black
ninja-like garb, concealing everything except their eyes. But unlike the other
thefts, I manage to get a few good camera shots of the fleeing, which might
yield a clue for the authorities. Stay tuned for more details. Reporting live,
this is Kasuga Kyosuke.

[Back at the secret location with Mystery Lady sitting in her "throne" room...]

(Guy #1 and #2 enters)

Mystery Woman puts tape in and plays back the report Kyosuke gave a half an
hour earlier.

Guy #1: A thousand pardons mistress. We were lax in our efforts this time. Our
overconfidence got the better of us. It won't happen again.

Guy #2: Despite our sloppy efforts, we still manage to obtain tonight's take.
(present her with a teak box)

(Mystery Woman opens it up to reveal sparkling diamond rings, gold watches and
bracelets, and other precious items. nods her head in approval)

[Back at  Ayukawa Mansion]

(Madoka and Kasuga in bed together)

K: (hands behind his head) Oh boy, what a way to end this eventful day. I
never expect it to turn out like this. To be ride in the middle of where the
action is.

M: Lucky break for you, getting that chance to do that live report. Maybe that
would be start of things to come. 

K: I'm still bummed out about the thugs taking your ring away. I know how much
you loved it.

M: (turns to him)I don't need a big and fancy ring on my hand to tell me how
much you love me.  Just being with you is indication enough. Now superman;
show me just how much you DO love me...

K: Mmmmm....Gladly...(Brings Madoka's smooth, naked towards his own for
"coupling" action)

[End of Chapter B3]