T-Rexor Ranger
06-17-2007, 04:43 PM
KAMEN RIDER – Z
By: Robert J. Wong.
= = =
The bright sun shone in the morning sky, breaking passed the few clouds that loomed. Today began just like any other day. People were waking up, kids getting ready for school, adults heading to and from work as some were just finishing their shifts now. Every street was packed including the side walks, as many citizens, drove, walked and biked about their daily lives.
A young man sat on his black, leather couch in his living room while sipping a cup of tea. He was Japanese, and rather slender but still had a little muscle to him as he sat there in only his jeans, which had slashes in the knees. Placing his large, orange mug down upon the glass, golden framed coffee table, he began to think of fond times with friends back in high school. And how they would often go on and on about becoming famous later in life.
Becky, Miki, Takuya and Souji were killed in a car accident a few years back, on their summer road trip. Shin, the young man on the couch dropped out of College a week after he found out…. Devastated by their deaths depression settled in deep…driving him to the point of suicide as he gazed at the scars on his wrists. The sight of the scars often gave him the shakes, rushing the memories of that terrible time in his life to the surface.
Quickly Shin grabbed a small, orange bottle of pills across the table and flipped the cap off with his thumb then chucked back a couple pills down his throat. There were only two left anyways. Slowly chewing them down Shin glared passed the bangs of his really long, jet black hair, to the kitchen window in the next room. Sunlight poured in from the rectangular window with the blinds up. Even if the light wasn’t reaching him, the glare off the white, dirty, tiled floor was enough to get him a headache as it is.
Raising his arm up and placing his hand upon his face, Shin wiped the sleep from his eyes finally and then picked up the coffee mug. Bringing it to his lips he took a sip, then peered down into it for a moment… and then chugged it down washing the rest of the pills with it. After putting the mug down for the last time he sat there, staring at it without emotion. Just an expressionless stare while images of his friends came rushing back; Becky and Miki were both laughing and singing a children’s song from their childhood, Takuya was smiling and practicing his guitar. Souji was off in the background reading one of his favorite Manga’s as they all were situated in a secluded area of a park. Slowly the memory faded into a mist… and then disappeared completely.
Suddenly the memory of Souji appeared as he continued to gaze at the kanji engraved on the mug. Then a voice resonated from that memory, “It’s a new day, Onii-chan.”
“A new day…,” he said to himself quietly. Shin rose up to and walked around the coffee table sluggishly, still feeling tired from last night’s workload but he continued on into the kitchen, right into the rays of sunshine to gaze out the window. The city of Tokyo was becoming lively more and more as the summer months came, making him feel that he was being held back from the world.
Outstretching his arms and placing both hands on either side of the window frame, he leaned forward, pressed against the edge of the sink, his head lowered. There was a drip. Shin opened his eyes to find a drop of water upon the bottom of the sink, but it wasn’t from the tap. Feeling against his cheek, he fingers came across a faint, wet line from the lower lid of his eye. A Tear had fallen.
= = = =
EPISODE 1
= = = =
Off in the deepest reaches of a desert were the remains of an old town. Now deserted for a long, long time as cobwebs were in every nook and cranny you could see. Windows boarded up, doors as well. Some appeared broken in, others out. A few of the buildings were intact, while the most of them had holes in the roof, or through the wall. The entire town looked as if a bomb had struck it. Bones, charred up, with bits of tattered clothing littered here and there all over the place. Something terrible did occur. That much was for certain.
Deep underground, in the depths of the earth was this, well crafted temple-like cave. Several torches were placed along the walls, each light vibrantly, giving off a good source of light illuminating the tomb. At the front of the tomb was a podium of stone, very tall about eight feet. Near the top in the front of the podium was a Skull-esque symbol, carved from pieces of bronze metal. In the forehead of the skull, a silver cross.
Above it shone a single bright light. Was it sunlight? It was so bright it that anyone would have mistaken it for the real sun. In the middle of the tomb were three pillars, shorter then the podium but only by a foot. Each had ancient engravings etched into the round, smooth stone surface, and this odd, diamond shaped gem in the center at the front of them.
The tomb-ish temple was quiet…then all of the sudden the gems began glowing vibrantly. Specific colored lightning started to emerge from each one; the right fired red, the left: blue and middle gem fired purple bolts. As every bolt touched the ground, ceiling and walls of the cave, sparks started flying-then the stone pillars morphed into large, round balls, each covered in the respective colored energy. As they started to float up above the floor, they gave off this humming sound then swiftly molded into humanoid form. With a quick flash of light they all finally took corporeal form.
They were kneeling down on one knee, completely in the buff also in human form. But they weren’t human inside, in fact far from it. On the right kneeled a woman, about twenty-eight and curvy with long, black hair, covering the left side of her face. The right eye that was visible was red. In the middle kneeled a man, early thirties, strong build, with a crimson mullet and both his eyes were purple. Next to him on the left, a younger male with a middle build, blue spiky hair and teal eyes. They all appeared to be Japanese in their human form. Keeping their head down to the light it soon faded to a dim, amber color and then they looked up in unison. The woman wore an aggressive expression, the older male appeared to be concentrating and finally the youngest male had a wicked grin plastered upon his face as they gazed upon the amber light. Each of them was receiving messages directly into their brains. Specific orders were given to them along with detailed information about our history.
The middle aged man stood up followed by the others. All three waved their right arms over in front of them and back to their sides, forming odd and unique uniforms.
“So the count down has begun, dear brother?” asked the younger male who had on a more, military-esque uniform, cobalt in color with silver shoulder pads that came to a tip at the ends. Going down on each side of his chest were, black with silver trim sashes, each barring a metal from each of his kills. Around his waist was a black, leather belt that held a holstered hand-gun, it seemed reminiscing of an older musket, mixed with a shotgun.
“It has already begun its journey, Malbor… we have work to do,” replied the middle aged man who’s attire was an all black suit, with the one-sided flap jacket, held shut with square shaped, bone buttons. The belt was red with a gold buckle; they all had this buckle which was in the shape of the skull, and a silver cross in the forehead. Also his gauntlets were black metal, with silver trim, same with the boots, and he also wore a long, black cloak. “Kordra, you know what to do.”
“Hai, Count Vulgen, I’ll seek out the chosen few and bring them back here swiftly,” replied the Kordra wearing her tight, form-fitting, purple body suit. It was made from some form of leather from the looks of it, but tougher then reinforced titanium. Two spikes were on her shoulders, curving upward at the point tips. Her boots were black and knee-high as well, with twin short-swords sheathed on her outer sides; each glove went up a little past her elbow and too was black with four, small, bronze bone-like spikes on each. The belt around her waist was red with the gold skull and silver cross in the forehead of it.
Quickly Kordra left the brothers alone and vanished into the shadows to commence her mission. Malbor on the other hand being curious as he is, walked up to Vulgen and placed his hands behind his back, standing at Vulgen’s side.
“Brother what do you wish me to do?” asked Malbor in a cocky, taunting tone, knowing full well what his orders were.
“Prep the lab like you were instructed… I need some creatures ready for advancement… I’ll take care of our security measures,” Count Vulgen replied in an unfazed tone keeping his mind on the objective at hand. Everything needed to be prepared without a hitch…otherwise… the loss would be a great one. One he or the Organization couldn’t afford.
Malbor put his left arm horizontally in front of his waist, resting his right arms elbow upon his wrist and rubbing his chin, thinking the his orders over again. “Alright, since time is getting shorter by the minute dear brother, I’ll get right on it.”
“Good, you had better be quick about it…we need to finish Phase One quickly.”
= = = =
Shin opened the door and stepped out in the narrow, cramped, dark hallway of his small apartment, then turned to shut and locked the door. He slid the keys into his pants pocket and swung on his faded, blue, jean jacket over the white T he had on. His long, black hair was tied back though a few long strands remained in front of his face; turning, he then started heading down the hallway, shuffling almost rather than walking, each blue sneaker squeaked upon the tiled, white flooring. Shin just didn’t really bother to care about what he had to do today.
As he shuffled through his pants pockets he pulled out this small piece of crinkled paper. Opening it up, Shin gazed down the scribble list of items written on the crinkly page: “Soap, TV Dinners, newspaper, ketchup....”
Pausing, Shin just continued to stare down at the last too items…which were really tasks: ‘A get a job… and move on with life.’ Clenching his fists he crinkled the paper even more. Then shoved it back into his pants pocket and forcing his mind off of it. Now air was all he wanted, possibly even a walk could help clear away the cobwebs.
Walking out the front door of the two story building Shin noticed the janitor, Mr. Suzuki. He was rather thin, and elderly but very kind to everyone except for a few. Although there was always this mysterious part of him, about never mentioning about his past too much but still gave advice to those who asked. Including to those, who Suzuki thought needed it.
Paying him no mind really Shin kept walking to the front gate, trying to push everything around him away. Though Suzuki glanced at him while continuing to sweep the grounds with a grim look, he hid a slight saddened expression from view. Knowing what he’s been through from reading the news papers, watching the news on TV and seeing pictures of the victims and relatives. It was something that made him often, want to at least try and help as best he could. Although the elderly janitor knew better then to try to bring it up. He knew how Shin was… keeping to himself, shutting everyone out, not wanting to talk about it.
But today… he had to say something, “Shin-kun.”
Coming to a halt at the front gate of the ordinary looking, black metal fence, Shin gritted his teeth trying not to snap. He didn’t want to, and took a deep breath, hoping to be able to relax.
“Nanda?”
“Have a good day,” replied Suzuki wiping the forming drops of sweat off the top of his balding head with a red handkerchief. It was rather warm out especially for working on the grounds. He then folded it back up and stuffed the handkerchief back into the breast pocket of his blue overalls.
Without turning back Shin cracked a slight smile, “It’s a new day…isn’t it.” Quickly he opened the gate and stepped out, letting it shut behind him as he went across the street toward this, black, silver and green, Kawasaki KLR650.
“Indeed it is, Shin-kun... indeed it is,” murmured the old man as he picked up the broom and walked back into the building.
= = = =
Mounting his KLR650, he put on the black and red SHOEI helmet then his black racing gloves before starting up the engine, kicking the stand up and driving off. He stopped at the end of the street, looked for any sign of incoming traffic, and then finally took a right down the next street. But, in a sense he was hoping that a car would hit him, or something… those pills weren’t working. ‘At least not anymore…. Not the way they use to,’ thinking to him self, continuing to ignore the world around him. Passing three red lights in a row, he just kept on looking straight ahead. Hoping for some kind of sign, but would he recognize it?
Tightening the handlebar within his grip he revved the bike again and again, causing the machine to move faster, burning rubber along the pavement. Paying the traffic lights no mind at all as Shin speed along, hoping to just crash and hit something! ‘Just let me die!’ he exclaimed deep within the domain of his mind.
Suddenly he drifted into a skid and stopped inches away from the lines of the crosswalk before he smashed right into a bunch of school kids. Breathing franticly, Shin held his eyes closed then slowly opened them. The kids were staring at him, confused whether to move or stay put as they were just nearly turned to road kill by this guy.
Not saying a word, Shin looked at all four of them one at a time and they too stared into his hazel eyes, still rather scared. Possibly saying something might help them go on their way… but… ‘Screw it.’ With that the Rider quickly pulled the bike back up and revved the engine back to life before dashing off down the street again, this time a little slower then before.
= = = =
The sound of high heels clack along the stone walkway as a very attractive, twenty-nine year old Japanese woman, wearing grey dress pants, a white sleeveless blouse and black heels, walks towards this large summer cottage shrouded by a thick forest. With only a gravel round leading out towards the main road, near the highway. Her flowing red hair blew in the cool afternoon breeze, lightly brushing along her shoulders. She pushed a few strands away, adjusting her silver framed glasses complimented her deep, blue eyes.
“Professor Kanno Chiaki I presume?” spoke a stern, feminine voice from across the lawn, catching the woman’s attention. She stopped and turned towards the direction of the voice. There stood Kordra with a hand resting on her hip, never changed from her occult uniform.
“Who are you?” asked Chiaki, unsure as to what she was doing here nor why she had that ridiculous get up on, “What do you want?”
Kordra raised left right arm point her main index finger towards the Professor, and grasped the grip of this stick-like weapon with her right, “You are to come with me. Now we can do this the easy way….”
“Riiight, I don’t think I’ll be going anywhere,” replied Chiaki firmly heading towards the front door of the cottage—then two black, clad figures leaped out of nowhere grabbing and restraining her to the ground below. She couldn’t get a good look at them, nor was she even positive about wanting to. There was nothing that Chiaki could do, they had her pinned hard, both were arms held back straight, it hurt! “LET ME GO!”
“The fun way it is.”
Quickly turning her head to see that Kordra was standing beside her, she was quick…
WHACK!
Professor Kanno was out cold… after receiving a good kick to the head.
= = = =
A black, silver and green Kawasaki KLR650 rode up to the side of the curb, and the stand was kicked down by a blue, sneaker covered foot. It was Shin. Dismounting he pulled off the helmet, his gloves and stuffed them into the helmet. As he held it under his arm upside down, Shin walked towards a small, nondescript building. Basically a flat of sorts, but with a large, blue and orange wacky sign up above. It was obviously a store.
Going inside he grabbed a small, steel basket and began picking the items on the list, and a few that weren’t on there. Walking around the three main aisles, he noticed standing at the cash register, ringing other’s groceries, was a young, blue haired woman. She was about twenty at least, dressed in a black heavy metal tank top, with about four different kinds of metal bead and chain, necklaces around her necking. Only glancing up once the nice smile faded to a frown but quickly when back to smile as she continued ringing in the last costumer, until dark, shadowed, green eyes came back to Shin.
It felt like she was piercing into his very soul, although there wasn’t much left to it to really phase as he walked up casually to the cash and placed the basket on the counter.
“Is that everything?” she asked without emotion and taking the items out and placing them in a duel, white plastic bag.
Shin nodded and pulled his black, vinyl wallet, pulling out some yen in bills. He tossed it upon the table, hoping to hurry things along. The amount didn’t matter all that he wanted to do was leave before she tried to start a conversation… again.
After she rung it in and dug out some change to give back he picked up the bag, stuffing his wallet back into his pants pocket and headed to the door.
“Shinichi!” she called.
It was like a reflex, making him come to stop as soon as she said his name. Now wasn’t the time, he didn’t want to talk, he just wanted to get back home… now.
“Keep the—“
“I know, I know… keep the change,” she replied solemnly, followed by the sound of the cash register tray closing and locking with a clang. Shin headed out putting his gloves back on, followed by the helmet as the girl watched him. The door stood in the way of them continuing this, and for many a time, she wouldn’t bother going after him… but there was this feeling she had, that something was really wrong. That Shin would do something stupid, but unknown of what happened earlier.
Quickly pushing the door wide, the bell up above jingled and she ran up to him as he mounted the bike, “Shinichi.”
“Leave me alone,” he replied coldly turning the key and starting the engine; she grabbed his arm but he yanked back, flinging her grip off. “I said leave me alone… I didn’t come to talk to you, Ayumi!”
Ayumi stepped back, stunned but she was even surprised to be surprised that he would do that. After all that has happened one year ago… he seems to be getting worse and worse. Though, as she held her clenched fist tight against her chest near her heart, with both eyes fixed on the ground, she could never forget that she was partially responsible for hurting him… Slowly her hand came up from her chest, to her cheek and rubbed it softly… remembering….
Shin kicked the stand up and rode off without looking back… he didn’t want to, there was nothing more to see, except for the setting sun in the cloudy sky.
= = = =
The sun has finally set as the full moon rises into the black, starry sky. Shin continues on his way back…though taking a detour just to clear his head on things. From the corner of his eye there was movement. He stops suddenly and looks back—nothing. Glancing around Shin doesn’t see anyone, not a soul. The street is bare, except a few vehicles which are parked on the sides of the narrow road. Up ahead was a small tunnel, dark, but with a dim amber light.
He pressed the pedal and shoots off still wondering if the coast was clear, or possibly imaging things. Entering the tunnel the back doors of two black vans open up, and several pairs, of black, shining boots stomped onto the pavement, and then dashed off.
Unknown to Shin, the entrance was now a dead end… but as he came to the middle and saw the clearing… there was a bright light shining in with several humanoid figures standing in a row blocking the exit. Swiftly he skidded to a complete halt, Shin flipped up the clear visor of his helmet, shocked with both eyes wide unsure as to what was going on.
“Oi!” he shouted to the figure, “Dougei!”
They didn’t budge, instead they started to clap. Their clapping became louder and louder causing Shin to raise an eyebrow, ‘just what the hell is going on?’ Suddenly the clapping ended as a hand was raised up into the air.
“Now what?” questioned Shin slowly getting off the bike in case he would get into a scrap; the lone, humanoid figure approached closer, at least it appeared human… until the outline of four arms appeared up in the air.
“Welcome… you have been chosen!” shouted the four-armed being, followed by the other figures to commencing her clapping once more! The four-armored being even joined in this time! Shin though wasn’t going to stand around to see what happened next and went for his bike which was suddenly wrapped up by a silky, white substance and pulled away!
“Nanda…omae?!” exclaimed Shin not believing what he had just witnessed, and it too came from the four-armed thing! Without hesitation he dashed towards the other end, only to find two vans there instead, with several other figures!
“Shimatta… Onore…!” he cursed and then dashed to the side of the alley, attempting to climb the latter and reaching the street above. Darting away from the ladder, Shin’s mind began to race…he had wished for death…and now, the fear of actually dying was something much more corporeal then it was moments ago.
Then all of the sudden as he makes it into the middle of another street…Shin is smashed by a black van and sent ramming hard onto the grill of another black van, and finally to the pavement. He wasn’t moving… bones were broken… a very small pool of blood leaked from the side of his head lying on the cold street, lifeless….
Several black, boots huddled around the body, then a couple stepped aside, only to be replaced by two weird looking, furry, claw-like feet.
“Welcome… Yamato Shinichi,” with that a small gold, flat piece of metal, dropped down beside the body. It had the image of a skull with a silver cross in the center of its forehead.
= = =
-To Be Continued-
By: Robert J. Wong.
= = =
The bright sun shone in the morning sky, breaking passed the few clouds that loomed. Today began just like any other day. People were waking up, kids getting ready for school, adults heading to and from work as some were just finishing their shifts now. Every street was packed including the side walks, as many citizens, drove, walked and biked about their daily lives.
A young man sat on his black, leather couch in his living room while sipping a cup of tea. He was Japanese, and rather slender but still had a little muscle to him as he sat there in only his jeans, which had slashes in the knees. Placing his large, orange mug down upon the glass, golden framed coffee table, he began to think of fond times with friends back in high school. And how they would often go on and on about becoming famous later in life.
Becky, Miki, Takuya and Souji were killed in a car accident a few years back, on their summer road trip. Shin, the young man on the couch dropped out of College a week after he found out…. Devastated by their deaths depression settled in deep…driving him to the point of suicide as he gazed at the scars on his wrists. The sight of the scars often gave him the shakes, rushing the memories of that terrible time in his life to the surface.
Quickly Shin grabbed a small, orange bottle of pills across the table and flipped the cap off with his thumb then chucked back a couple pills down his throat. There were only two left anyways. Slowly chewing them down Shin glared passed the bangs of his really long, jet black hair, to the kitchen window in the next room. Sunlight poured in from the rectangular window with the blinds up. Even if the light wasn’t reaching him, the glare off the white, dirty, tiled floor was enough to get him a headache as it is.
Raising his arm up and placing his hand upon his face, Shin wiped the sleep from his eyes finally and then picked up the coffee mug. Bringing it to his lips he took a sip, then peered down into it for a moment… and then chugged it down washing the rest of the pills with it. After putting the mug down for the last time he sat there, staring at it without emotion. Just an expressionless stare while images of his friends came rushing back; Becky and Miki were both laughing and singing a children’s song from their childhood, Takuya was smiling and practicing his guitar. Souji was off in the background reading one of his favorite Manga’s as they all were situated in a secluded area of a park. Slowly the memory faded into a mist… and then disappeared completely.
Suddenly the memory of Souji appeared as he continued to gaze at the kanji engraved on the mug. Then a voice resonated from that memory, “It’s a new day, Onii-chan.”
“A new day…,” he said to himself quietly. Shin rose up to and walked around the coffee table sluggishly, still feeling tired from last night’s workload but he continued on into the kitchen, right into the rays of sunshine to gaze out the window. The city of Tokyo was becoming lively more and more as the summer months came, making him feel that he was being held back from the world.
Outstretching his arms and placing both hands on either side of the window frame, he leaned forward, pressed against the edge of the sink, his head lowered. There was a drip. Shin opened his eyes to find a drop of water upon the bottom of the sink, but it wasn’t from the tap. Feeling against his cheek, he fingers came across a faint, wet line from the lower lid of his eye. A Tear had fallen.
= = = =
EPISODE 1
= = = =
Off in the deepest reaches of a desert were the remains of an old town. Now deserted for a long, long time as cobwebs were in every nook and cranny you could see. Windows boarded up, doors as well. Some appeared broken in, others out. A few of the buildings were intact, while the most of them had holes in the roof, or through the wall. The entire town looked as if a bomb had struck it. Bones, charred up, with bits of tattered clothing littered here and there all over the place. Something terrible did occur. That much was for certain.
Deep underground, in the depths of the earth was this, well crafted temple-like cave. Several torches were placed along the walls, each light vibrantly, giving off a good source of light illuminating the tomb. At the front of the tomb was a podium of stone, very tall about eight feet. Near the top in the front of the podium was a Skull-esque symbol, carved from pieces of bronze metal. In the forehead of the skull, a silver cross.
Above it shone a single bright light. Was it sunlight? It was so bright it that anyone would have mistaken it for the real sun. In the middle of the tomb were three pillars, shorter then the podium but only by a foot. Each had ancient engravings etched into the round, smooth stone surface, and this odd, diamond shaped gem in the center at the front of them.
The tomb-ish temple was quiet…then all of the sudden the gems began glowing vibrantly. Specific colored lightning started to emerge from each one; the right fired red, the left: blue and middle gem fired purple bolts. As every bolt touched the ground, ceiling and walls of the cave, sparks started flying-then the stone pillars morphed into large, round balls, each covered in the respective colored energy. As they started to float up above the floor, they gave off this humming sound then swiftly molded into humanoid form. With a quick flash of light they all finally took corporeal form.
They were kneeling down on one knee, completely in the buff also in human form. But they weren’t human inside, in fact far from it. On the right kneeled a woman, about twenty-eight and curvy with long, black hair, covering the left side of her face. The right eye that was visible was red. In the middle kneeled a man, early thirties, strong build, with a crimson mullet and both his eyes were purple. Next to him on the left, a younger male with a middle build, blue spiky hair and teal eyes. They all appeared to be Japanese in their human form. Keeping their head down to the light it soon faded to a dim, amber color and then they looked up in unison. The woman wore an aggressive expression, the older male appeared to be concentrating and finally the youngest male had a wicked grin plastered upon his face as they gazed upon the amber light. Each of them was receiving messages directly into their brains. Specific orders were given to them along with detailed information about our history.
The middle aged man stood up followed by the others. All three waved their right arms over in front of them and back to their sides, forming odd and unique uniforms.
“So the count down has begun, dear brother?” asked the younger male who had on a more, military-esque uniform, cobalt in color with silver shoulder pads that came to a tip at the ends. Going down on each side of his chest were, black with silver trim sashes, each barring a metal from each of his kills. Around his waist was a black, leather belt that held a holstered hand-gun, it seemed reminiscing of an older musket, mixed with a shotgun.
“It has already begun its journey, Malbor… we have work to do,” replied the middle aged man who’s attire was an all black suit, with the one-sided flap jacket, held shut with square shaped, bone buttons. The belt was red with a gold buckle; they all had this buckle which was in the shape of the skull, and a silver cross in the forehead. Also his gauntlets were black metal, with silver trim, same with the boots, and he also wore a long, black cloak. “Kordra, you know what to do.”
“Hai, Count Vulgen, I’ll seek out the chosen few and bring them back here swiftly,” replied the Kordra wearing her tight, form-fitting, purple body suit. It was made from some form of leather from the looks of it, but tougher then reinforced titanium. Two spikes were on her shoulders, curving upward at the point tips. Her boots were black and knee-high as well, with twin short-swords sheathed on her outer sides; each glove went up a little past her elbow and too was black with four, small, bronze bone-like spikes on each. The belt around her waist was red with the gold skull and silver cross in the forehead of it.
Quickly Kordra left the brothers alone and vanished into the shadows to commence her mission. Malbor on the other hand being curious as he is, walked up to Vulgen and placed his hands behind his back, standing at Vulgen’s side.
“Brother what do you wish me to do?” asked Malbor in a cocky, taunting tone, knowing full well what his orders were.
“Prep the lab like you were instructed… I need some creatures ready for advancement… I’ll take care of our security measures,” Count Vulgen replied in an unfazed tone keeping his mind on the objective at hand. Everything needed to be prepared without a hitch…otherwise… the loss would be a great one. One he or the Organization couldn’t afford.
Malbor put his left arm horizontally in front of his waist, resting his right arms elbow upon his wrist and rubbing his chin, thinking the his orders over again. “Alright, since time is getting shorter by the minute dear brother, I’ll get right on it.”
“Good, you had better be quick about it…we need to finish Phase One quickly.”
= = = =
Shin opened the door and stepped out in the narrow, cramped, dark hallway of his small apartment, then turned to shut and locked the door. He slid the keys into his pants pocket and swung on his faded, blue, jean jacket over the white T he had on. His long, black hair was tied back though a few long strands remained in front of his face; turning, he then started heading down the hallway, shuffling almost rather than walking, each blue sneaker squeaked upon the tiled, white flooring. Shin just didn’t really bother to care about what he had to do today.
As he shuffled through his pants pockets he pulled out this small piece of crinkled paper. Opening it up, Shin gazed down the scribble list of items written on the crinkly page: “Soap, TV Dinners, newspaper, ketchup....”
Pausing, Shin just continued to stare down at the last too items…which were really tasks: ‘A get a job… and move on with life.’ Clenching his fists he crinkled the paper even more. Then shoved it back into his pants pocket and forcing his mind off of it. Now air was all he wanted, possibly even a walk could help clear away the cobwebs.
Walking out the front door of the two story building Shin noticed the janitor, Mr. Suzuki. He was rather thin, and elderly but very kind to everyone except for a few. Although there was always this mysterious part of him, about never mentioning about his past too much but still gave advice to those who asked. Including to those, who Suzuki thought needed it.
Paying him no mind really Shin kept walking to the front gate, trying to push everything around him away. Though Suzuki glanced at him while continuing to sweep the grounds with a grim look, he hid a slight saddened expression from view. Knowing what he’s been through from reading the news papers, watching the news on TV and seeing pictures of the victims and relatives. It was something that made him often, want to at least try and help as best he could. Although the elderly janitor knew better then to try to bring it up. He knew how Shin was… keeping to himself, shutting everyone out, not wanting to talk about it.
But today… he had to say something, “Shin-kun.”
Coming to a halt at the front gate of the ordinary looking, black metal fence, Shin gritted his teeth trying not to snap. He didn’t want to, and took a deep breath, hoping to be able to relax.
“Nanda?”
“Have a good day,” replied Suzuki wiping the forming drops of sweat off the top of his balding head with a red handkerchief. It was rather warm out especially for working on the grounds. He then folded it back up and stuffed the handkerchief back into the breast pocket of his blue overalls.
Without turning back Shin cracked a slight smile, “It’s a new day…isn’t it.” Quickly he opened the gate and stepped out, letting it shut behind him as he went across the street toward this, black, silver and green, Kawasaki KLR650.
“Indeed it is, Shin-kun... indeed it is,” murmured the old man as he picked up the broom and walked back into the building.
= = = =
Mounting his KLR650, he put on the black and red SHOEI helmet then his black racing gloves before starting up the engine, kicking the stand up and driving off. He stopped at the end of the street, looked for any sign of incoming traffic, and then finally took a right down the next street. But, in a sense he was hoping that a car would hit him, or something… those pills weren’t working. ‘At least not anymore…. Not the way they use to,’ thinking to him self, continuing to ignore the world around him. Passing three red lights in a row, he just kept on looking straight ahead. Hoping for some kind of sign, but would he recognize it?
Tightening the handlebar within his grip he revved the bike again and again, causing the machine to move faster, burning rubber along the pavement. Paying the traffic lights no mind at all as Shin speed along, hoping to just crash and hit something! ‘Just let me die!’ he exclaimed deep within the domain of his mind.
Suddenly he drifted into a skid and stopped inches away from the lines of the crosswalk before he smashed right into a bunch of school kids. Breathing franticly, Shin held his eyes closed then slowly opened them. The kids were staring at him, confused whether to move or stay put as they were just nearly turned to road kill by this guy.
Not saying a word, Shin looked at all four of them one at a time and they too stared into his hazel eyes, still rather scared. Possibly saying something might help them go on their way… but… ‘Screw it.’ With that the Rider quickly pulled the bike back up and revved the engine back to life before dashing off down the street again, this time a little slower then before.
= = = =
The sound of high heels clack along the stone walkway as a very attractive, twenty-nine year old Japanese woman, wearing grey dress pants, a white sleeveless blouse and black heels, walks towards this large summer cottage shrouded by a thick forest. With only a gravel round leading out towards the main road, near the highway. Her flowing red hair blew in the cool afternoon breeze, lightly brushing along her shoulders. She pushed a few strands away, adjusting her silver framed glasses complimented her deep, blue eyes.
“Professor Kanno Chiaki I presume?” spoke a stern, feminine voice from across the lawn, catching the woman’s attention. She stopped and turned towards the direction of the voice. There stood Kordra with a hand resting on her hip, never changed from her occult uniform.
“Who are you?” asked Chiaki, unsure as to what she was doing here nor why she had that ridiculous get up on, “What do you want?”
Kordra raised left right arm point her main index finger towards the Professor, and grasped the grip of this stick-like weapon with her right, “You are to come with me. Now we can do this the easy way….”
“Riiight, I don’t think I’ll be going anywhere,” replied Chiaki firmly heading towards the front door of the cottage—then two black, clad figures leaped out of nowhere grabbing and restraining her to the ground below. She couldn’t get a good look at them, nor was she even positive about wanting to. There was nothing that Chiaki could do, they had her pinned hard, both were arms held back straight, it hurt! “LET ME GO!”
“The fun way it is.”
Quickly turning her head to see that Kordra was standing beside her, she was quick…
WHACK!
Professor Kanno was out cold… after receiving a good kick to the head.
= = = =
A black, silver and green Kawasaki KLR650 rode up to the side of the curb, and the stand was kicked down by a blue, sneaker covered foot. It was Shin. Dismounting he pulled off the helmet, his gloves and stuffed them into the helmet. As he held it under his arm upside down, Shin walked towards a small, nondescript building. Basically a flat of sorts, but with a large, blue and orange wacky sign up above. It was obviously a store.
Going inside he grabbed a small, steel basket and began picking the items on the list, and a few that weren’t on there. Walking around the three main aisles, he noticed standing at the cash register, ringing other’s groceries, was a young, blue haired woman. She was about twenty at least, dressed in a black heavy metal tank top, with about four different kinds of metal bead and chain, necklaces around her necking. Only glancing up once the nice smile faded to a frown but quickly when back to smile as she continued ringing in the last costumer, until dark, shadowed, green eyes came back to Shin.
It felt like she was piercing into his very soul, although there wasn’t much left to it to really phase as he walked up casually to the cash and placed the basket on the counter.
“Is that everything?” she asked without emotion and taking the items out and placing them in a duel, white plastic bag.
Shin nodded and pulled his black, vinyl wallet, pulling out some yen in bills. He tossed it upon the table, hoping to hurry things along. The amount didn’t matter all that he wanted to do was leave before she tried to start a conversation… again.
After she rung it in and dug out some change to give back he picked up the bag, stuffing his wallet back into his pants pocket and headed to the door.
“Shinichi!” she called.
It was like a reflex, making him come to stop as soon as she said his name. Now wasn’t the time, he didn’t want to talk, he just wanted to get back home… now.
“Keep the—“
“I know, I know… keep the change,” she replied solemnly, followed by the sound of the cash register tray closing and locking with a clang. Shin headed out putting his gloves back on, followed by the helmet as the girl watched him. The door stood in the way of them continuing this, and for many a time, she wouldn’t bother going after him… but there was this feeling she had, that something was really wrong. That Shin would do something stupid, but unknown of what happened earlier.
Quickly pushing the door wide, the bell up above jingled and she ran up to him as he mounted the bike, “Shinichi.”
“Leave me alone,” he replied coldly turning the key and starting the engine; she grabbed his arm but he yanked back, flinging her grip off. “I said leave me alone… I didn’t come to talk to you, Ayumi!”
Ayumi stepped back, stunned but she was even surprised to be surprised that he would do that. After all that has happened one year ago… he seems to be getting worse and worse. Though, as she held her clenched fist tight against her chest near her heart, with both eyes fixed on the ground, she could never forget that she was partially responsible for hurting him… Slowly her hand came up from her chest, to her cheek and rubbed it softly… remembering….
Shin kicked the stand up and rode off without looking back… he didn’t want to, there was nothing more to see, except for the setting sun in the cloudy sky.
= = = =
The sun has finally set as the full moon rises into the black, starry sky. Shin continues on his way back…though taking a detour just to clear his head on things. From the corner of his eye there was movement. He stops suddenly and looks back—nothing. Glancing around Shin doesn’t see anyone, not a soul. The street is bare, except a few vehicles which are parked on the sides of the narrow road. Up ahead was a small tunnel, dark, but with a dim amber light.
He pressed the pedal and shoots off still wondering if the coast was clear, or possibly imaging things. Entering the tunnel the back doors of two black vans open up, and several pairs, of black, shining boots stomped onto the pavement, and then dashed off.
Unknown to Shin, the entrance was now a dead end… but as he came to the middle and saw the clearing… there was a bright light shining in with several humanoid figures standing in a row blocking the exit. Swiftly he skidded to a complete halt, Shin flipped up the clear visor of his helmet, shocked with both eyes wide unsure as to what was going on.
“Oi!” he shouted to the figure, “Dougei!”
They didn’t budge, instead they started to clap. Their clapping became louder and louder causing Shin to raise an eyebrow, ‘just what the hell is going on?’ Suddenly the clapping ended as a hand was raised up into the air.
“Now what?” questioned Shin slowly getting off the bike in case he would get into a scrap; the lone, humanoid figure approached closer, at least it appeared human… until the outline of four arms appeared up in the air.
“Welcome… you have been chosen!” shouted the four-armed being, followed by the other figures to commencing her clapping once more! The four-armored being even joined in this time! Shin though wasn’t going to stand around to see what happened next and went for his bike which was suddenly wrapped up by a silky, white substance and pulled away!
“Nanda…omae?!” exclaimed Shin not believing what he had just witnessed, and it too came from the four-armed thing! Without hesitation he dashed towards the other end, only to find two vans there instead, with several other figures!
“Shimatta… Onore…!” he cursed and then dashed to the side of the alley, attempting to climb the latter and reaching the street above. Darting away from the ladder, Shin’s mind began to race…he had wished for death…and now, the fear of actually dying was something much more corporeal then it was moments ago.
Then all of the sudden as he makes it into the middle of another street…Shin is smashed by a black van and sent ramming hard onto the grill of another black van, and finally to the pavement. He wasn’t moving… bones were broken… a very small pool of blood leaked from the side of his head lying on the cold street, lifeless….
Several black, boots huddled around the body, then a couple stepped aside, only to be replaced by two weird looking, furry, claw-like feet.
“Welcome… Yamato Shinichi,” with that a small gold, flat piece of metal, dropped down beside the body. It had the image of a skull with a silver cross in the center of its forehead.
= = =
-To Be Continued-