Here is the next installment of my Devil Hunter Yohko Nocturne Saga. C&C's welcome.
How powerful is something when not even the military can stop it?
The Devil Hunters are about to find out - the hard way.
Devil Hunter Yohko:
The Nocturne Chronicles
Volume Two:
The Black Project
By John Shearen
Based on Mamano Hunter Yohko
Created by Toho/Madhouse
Forward
This is the second in a series of who knows. Originally,
I was only going to write Spring Heeled Jack. But, between Rob,
Libby and Dave (Studio YOGIPIGS) they thought that I should write
a sequel. So here is the story that they wanted. The original
plot idea came from Libby Thomas with a little help from Rob Barba.
All Mamano Hunter Yohko/Devil Hunter Yohko characters are property
of Toho/Madhouse; all others are property of their respective
owners (used without permission of course, if they like it or not)
and John E. Shearen.
I would like to dedicate this story to Libby Thomas, without
her, this story would not have a name nor would it be written.
She has provided extensive support for my writing capabilities.
Thank you Libby.
Prologue
Somewhere in conference room located in the American south-
west, an Army General, a Navy Admiral, and an Air Force Colonel
sat watching the final minutes of the battle taking place in
London. When the fighting stopped, the General turned and faced
his comrades. To his right sat a woman in her mid thirties with
blonde hair and penetrating green eyes. Her hair was pinned up in
regulation style. On his left sat an older man with gray streaks
through his short-cropped black hair.
"Sir," the colonel began, "She is the right one for our
situation here."
"Colonel, are you suggesting that we bring in foreigners
into the most secure place in the known world?" The general asked
in a husky voice.
"Excuse me sir, but I believe Colonel Thomas is right,"
Admiral Roberts added before the general had a chance to reply.
"Just from what we have seen, she has the ability to take on some-
thing from a nightmare and win."
"Admiral Roberts, as you have stated the obvious, she almost
lost." General Adams was having a hard time keeping his point of
view strictly military. Never in the history of the place has an
outsider been invited in, let alone someone from another country.
The United States has had a reason to keep the place under wraps.
If anything leaked out that the craft that crashed in Roswell was
located here, the public would be up in arms with demands as to
why the government has kept this a secret for so long and why they
have lied to the entire nation.
"Sir," Colonel Thomas intervened, "if we do not get help
soon, the public will know that something is here that we don't
want them to know about anyway. At least, we can minimize the
impact on society."
General Adams looked at each and every one of them before
closing his eyes and lowering his head. After two minutes of
complete and utter silence, he raised his head and spoke.
"Alright. But I want this to be completely legitimate with their
government. We do not have to let the specifics out but that we
need their help." Reaching over, he picked up the phone and
punched a couple of buttons. "Major, get on the horn and get
me the Chief of Staff." When he set the receiver down, he looked
at them and added, "What are you waiting for? Get moving."
"Yes sir," they said in unison as they rose.
Chapter One: Liberty Call
Wizard One landed once again in Minnesota. John Hampton and
family were waiting for the passengers to disembark at the private
hanger. Azusa looked weary while Yohko was refreshed. The only
visible damage to either of them was that Yohko's arm was still in
a sling.
"Why the hangar?" Yohko asked as they stepped off the steps.
John looked at them and smiled. "I didn't want the entire
world that you two are here. Let them think that you are somewhere
else." After giving them a welcoming back hug, he added, "Besides,
I figured that you two could use a vacation."
The ride to the house was uneventful. Azusa was quiet the
entire time. Marcy kept asking questions while Yohko provided the
answers. After they arrived at the house, Azusa went up to her
room and closed the door. No matter how much Yohko tried to talk
to her, Azusa didn't answer. Twenty minutes later, Yohko gave up
and joined the others in the den.
"I am sorry about all of this. Azusa hasn't been herself
since the fight," Yohko stated in a choked voice. The battle was
not supposed to happen the way it did. Azusa should not have
fought alone. Yohko felt that she let her friend and partner down,
and now she was paying the price.
Everyone sat in silence. No one knew what to say. John sat
next to Liz with Marcy in his lap. Tom sat on the floor with a
puzzled look on his face as he looked from his parents to Yohko.
Somewhere a door opened and closed. All eyes were on the stairs
as a ragged looking Azusa came down. Without uttering a word, she
headed to the kitchen. Yohko followed.
*"Azusa-chan,"* Yohko began as she entered the room. She
stopped when her friend glared at her.
"I depended on you, Yohko," Azusa yelled. "You let me down.
I had to do everything. I wasn't prepared for that encounter. By
all rights, I should have died that night. Right now all I want to
do is go back to my village.
"Damn it Yohko, I trusted you and worshipped your abilities.
You are more powerful than I am. You should have been there." The
statement was said in a hushed and strained voice.
"I know that Azusa. We both know that it wasn't right. No
matter what we may think, that battle was yours. I had no choice
in the matter and neither did you. All we can do is pick up where
we left off and continue from there."
"Not this time Yohko. I am ending this here and now," Azusa stated
flatly. The statement shocked Yohko so much that her mouth hung
open.
"Unfortunately you can't quit Azusa-chan," a familiar voice
resounded in the spacious kitchen. The voice seemed to have
originated from every item. "There is more to being a Devil Hunter
than fighting demons."
"I am sorry Mistress, but I can't continue." Azusa said
softly.
"Oh yes you can." The first Devil Hunter materialized in
front of them. "You have trained and fought to become a Devil
Hunter. Just because you had to fight a difficult battle doesn't
give you the right to quit. You have a responsibility to continue.
Don't blame Yohko for your problems. She has taught you more than
you realize. If it wasn't for her, you would have failed years
ago." The tone was neither condescending nor praise. Azusa felt
ashamed. "Ever since you were a little child, you wanted something
more than a life as a village wife. You have traveled and seen
many things that most people will never see. Don't give up on me
and don't give up on your friend." Haruka Mano disappeared as
quickly as she appeared.
Silence permeated throughout the kitchen. The two Devil
Hunters stared at each other for three minutes. Neither wanted to
utter the first word. Lost in their thoughts, they did not see nor
hear Marcy enter.
Both jumped when Marcy asked, "Who was that?"
Yohko answered, "She is a relative of mine from the past.
You saw the first Devil Hunter, and I am the one hundredth eighth."
Kneeling in front of the girl, she added, "Azusa is now a true
Devil Hunter, even if she thinks otherwise. If you will excuse us,
I need to have a hearty talk with my partner," she concluded.
Standing up, she turned to her partner and asked, "Coming partner?"
Feeling slightly foolish, Azusa followed Yohko, bade their
hosts' goodnight and headed up the stairs. Instead of heading to
her room, they ended up in Yohko's.
Once inside, Yohko said softly, "Close the door and make
yourself comfortable." She waited for Azusa to do as instructed
before continuing, "For the past four years, you have fought in
almost every battle I have. During all that time, you were train-
ing to become a Devil Hunter yourself. Three days ago, you became
a full-fledged hunter. Even though you almost died, you found the
strength inside you to win. I have not asked nor will I ask where
that strength came from."
Azusa sat and listened to her friend and mentor without
saying a word. Everything Yohko has said had a lot of truth. Ever
since she was little, her grandmother kept talking about her friend
'the Devil Hunter' after hearing tales of heroics; she made up her
mind to become one of the best. Now, she almost regretted that
choice.
"Between you, Ayako and Azusa-ni, you are the better, for
your training was for fighting evil. You have quickly comprehended
all aspects of the lore. The others are still learning. Now you
are honored bound to fulfill that mission."
"I understand all that," Azusa said softly. "But for once,
I would like to have some peace and quiet for a change. No matter
where we go, we end up fighting. Have you noticed that we don't
have boyfriends? We are so caught up in the war against devils
that we do not have time for anyone. I am surprised that only
Azusa-ni has one."
Stretching out on the bed, Yohko frowned and commented, "I
know. The last boy that actually showed any interest in me ended
up turning into a devil, which my grandmother eliminated. That
was over four years ago. Ever since then, I have not been that
close to a boy." Yawning, she added, "I think we should go to bed.
Let's worry about tomorrow tomorrow."
"Goodnight Yohko-chan," Azusa said as she stood up.
"Goodnight Azusa-chan," Yohko replied as Azusa opened the
door. When the door closed behind her, she let out a sigh of
relief. Whenever she needed to talk, Yohko was there. Now more
than ever, she needs her best friend. Smiling for the first time
in days, she headed towards her room down the hall.
The sun rose on a chilly morning to greet two young ladies
sparing out in the back yard. Neither of them felt the cold wind
from the north since they were engrossed in their practice. Even
though the temperature was only twelve, they were dressed in their
summer outfits. Sweat poured off of them and landed on the packed
snow. Marcy and Tom watched in awe from the second floor at the
determination of the two fighters. At one point, Yohko vaulted up
on the roof of the garage followed by Azusa.
Azusa used this practice session to relieve herself of the
tension that had built up since that night on London. Yohko took
everything in stride and tried to force Azusa to wear herself out.
One way or another, Azusa was going to call a truce. Just as she
realizes that was going to fail, Azusa called a truce, which Yohko
readily agreed. Both were too tired to go any further.
"Now that was a workout," Azusa sad as her pole arm vanished.
"Arigato Yohko-chan."
"Do itashimashite Azusa-chan," Yohko replied as her sword
vanished. "Let's go inside so that our admirers will not see
anything they are not supposed to see," she added indicating the
children.
The youngsters bearing blue towels greeted them as they
entered the house. "Isn't it cold out there to be wearing
something like that?" Marcy asked as she handed her towel to
Yohko.
"Thank you," Yohko said as she took the towel. "It isn't
that cold out there. We are moving around so much that we don't
feel the cold."
-//-
"I hope those two are enjoying themselves," Ayako said as she
read the newspaper.
"Granddaughter, if you had defeated her, you would have been
the one going over there instead."
"Grandmother, if I had defeated her, I would be dead already.
Yohko was better trained than I was. Hell, she is more powerful
than I am," Ayako commented angrily. "You should know by now that
Yohko and I are closer than you and auntie. This would never have
happened if you stayed out. But no, you always have to find some-
way it interfere with my life. You made your choice and now I have
made mine." As she walked out of the room, she added, "Now leave
me alone."
-//-
"So what are we going to do today?" Azusa asked as she met
Yohko in the hall.
"What do you have in mind?"
"Anything other than sitting here all day and doing nothing."
"I'll ask John if he has any suggestions," Yohko said as they
walked down the stairs. At the bottom, waiting for them, were the
two children. "Who is looking after you two?" Yohko asked.
"Missy is," Marcy replied. "She is in the den cleaning."
Taking their hands, she led the way. "You must meet her."
Upon entering, they were introduced to a tall medium built
dirty blonde haired young lady. From the look of her, Yohko
guessed about nineteen."
Medium blue eyes sparkled when Missy looked at her employer's
guests. "Good morning ladies," she said with a British accent.
"I hope you enjoyed your workout?"
"Good morning to you too," Yohko replied. "Azusa was wonder-
ing if there was any place of interest near by?"
Setting down her dusting cloth, Missy answered, "There is the
house across the street from the Cathedral, the Space and Science
Museum or you could go downtown and look around. From what I heard,
St. Paul is proud of their skywalk system. You can walk all over
the city without going outside. If you want, I could ask Steve to
take you."
"Please, thank you," Yohko sad in a cheerful voice.
"Can I come with you two?" Marcy asked when Missy left the
room.
"I am sorry Marcy, but you have to stay and keep an eye on
your brother," Yohko replied. The look on the girl's face
disappeared when Yohko added, "Maybe tomorrow."
Missy came back into the den followed by Steve. "Where do
you two lovely ladies want to go," Steve asked.
Azusa and Yohko faced each other and inquired the other on
their destinations. Several minutes past when Yohko addressed
Steve, "Could you take us downtown?"
With a smile, he answered, "It would be my pleasure."
Steve opened the door to the limousine. "Ah Steve, we are
not used to riding in the back seat of a fancy car," Yohko said as
Azusa climbed in.
"It seems that Azusa likes riding in the back. Besides, just
think of all the boys out there wishing they could ride with the
two of you." With that in mind, Yohko joined her partner in the
back.
In silence, they drove to Town Square. Steve dropped them
off in front of Dayton's department store on Sixth and Cedar.
"I'll be back at three. By that time, you should have covered
most of the city," Steve said as they climbed out. "Just be
careful, Mr. Hampton will have my hide if anything happened to
you two."
"We will and thanks for the ride. See you at three," Yohko
said. Turning to Azusa, she asked, "Are you ready?"
"Hai, Yohko-chan."
Unbeknownst to them, a news crew from KSTP was filming a news
scene a block away. A technician spotted them and pointed in their
direction. The entire crew looked over and agreed that an
exclusive interview would help boost the ratings of the evening
news.
Azusa and Yohko entered the store without noticing the crew
head their way. The crew lost their prey in the store. Still
determined to get the story, they searched every department in
Dayton's. Finally they caught up with them outside a clothing
store in the Trade Center.
The two foreigners were about to walk into a clothing store;
they heard a woman scream from another store. Turning in the
direction, they spotted a man holding up the store. Still not
completely recovered from her ordeal in England, Azusa yelled,
*"Drop the gun or you will have to end up buying a completely new
wardrobe."*
The gunman turned and faced her and fired. Before he could
find out if he hit her or not, Azusa changed outfits and drove the
tip of her spear into the concrete floor. She casually pulled it
out and advanced on him and said, *"Now!"* He stood there staring
at her, and then dropped the gun.
"Now be so kind and sit down while we wait for the police,"
Yohko said. He did as instructed without taking his eyes off the
girl wielding the spear.
"Uh...isn't she...uh...the one...uh...from England?" He
asked cautiously.
"Why, yes she is," Yohko replied. The smell of urine
permeated the area as a puddle formed under him.
Azusa looked at him and turned away and finally spotted the
reporters. "Ah Yohko-chan," she began as she touched Yohko's left
elbow. "I think John-san is going to be mad at us."
"Nani?"
"A camera crew is right behind us."
"Kami help us."
The reporter walked over to them and introduced herself.
"Forgive me ladies, my name is Mary Richards from KSTP television.
Could we have an exclusive interview with you?" The reporter stood
even with Yohko. Light brown eyes sparkled with anticipated joy.
Her thin lips parted into a warm and friendly smile. Shoulder
length raven colored covered the collar of the light brown overcoat.
A policeman arrived just as Yohko was about to reply. "What
happened here?" He asked in a deep voice.
"Well officer," Yohko began when she spotted his nametag,
"Cunningham, my friend and I were about to enter the store on the
other side when we heard a scream. We turned around and found this
man robbing the store."
The officer nodded and pulled out a notebook and a pen. "What
are your names?"
"My name is Yohko Mano and hers is Azusa Kanzaki."
"Ah Miss, could you put down the spear," he said as he looked
at Azusa.
"Nani?"
Yohko smiled and replied, "He wants you to put your spear
away."
"Hai," Azusa said as she shifted outfits in front of everyone.
The police officer looked at them as he finally recognized
who they were. "My chief will not believe this," he muttered
under his breath. "I am going to have to ask you two to come down
to the station and fill out a report."
"Our driver will be here around three. Would that be ok?"
Yohko asked.
"That would be fine," he replied. "Get up you," he said to
the dazed and confused individual. "Of all the days you had to
hold up a store, you had to pick the same day as these two were
out shopping."
Yohko turned her attention to Mary Richards; "We will give
you the interview."
An hour later, the two new crime fighters walked away and
continued their excursion. "I hope John-san won't be too upset,"
Azusa said softly.
"I don't think so. Actually, he might be proud in the way
you handled yourself. Personally, I thought you were going to hurt
him."
"That didn't cross my mind. I just wanted him to fully
understand me."
By the time Steve returned they had walked the entire skyway.
Several bags hung from their hands. They had never encountered
such construction before. Both thought that Tokyo could benefit
from the design. Lunch was held at the Iron Horse Restaurant in
the lower level of Dayton's. Steve helped them with their
purchases. From the look on their faces, he knew that they were
tired. "So how was your day?"
"Outside of the robbery and the news crew, we had a blast."
"What robbery and what news crew?" Steve stammered.
"Oh, we just happened to walk into a store when someone
screamed. Azusa stopped the robbery and a news crew followed us.
Also we need to stop at the Police Station to fill out a report."
"Must have been a hell of a day," Steve commented to no one
in particular.
Five minutes later, they arrived at the Police Station. "I
am not sure how long this is going to take," Yohko said.
"I'll wait."
"See you shortly," Yohko said as they headed inside.
"May I help you," the desk clerk asked as they entered. This
officer looked like a typical TV cop. Nothing unusual about him:
short brown hair, brown eyes, and a well-pressed uniform.
"We are looking for Officer Cunningham," Yohko replied.
"And may I ask your names," he asked
"Yohko Mano and Azusa Kanzaki."
His eyes widened as he wrote their names down in the
visitor's log. "Not the same two from England?"
"Yes," Yohko said.
"I think you better see the chief," he said as he stood up.
Turning to another nondescript officer, he added, "Tom, cover the
desk while I take these two ladies to the Chief's office.
"Ok Mike."
"This way please."
Eyes turned in their direction as they walked through the
station. Murmurs of demons and devils drifted their way as they
followed their guide. "I am not sure how she is going to take
this. She was completely stunned when Cunningham mentioned you
two."
"Sorry to hear that," Yohko said as she relayed to Azusa.
"Here we are," he said as he knocked on the door. "Chief,"
he began as he opened the door, "The two ladies are here."
A soft voice replied, "Show them in."
Yohko and Azusa entered a spacious office. A few pictures
covered the walls. A citation and a diploma were hung behind the
desk. Seated behind the standard looking office desk sat a middle
aged woman with gray streaks in her brownish red hair. Deep blue
eyes looked at her guests. Smiling, she stood up and extended her
hand. "Welcome to St Paul. I am Chief Murphy. Please have a
seat and explain how you two ended up in my city," she said warmly.
Yohko explained about the flight back from England, where they are
staying and finished up with the encounter in the store. The
chief sat and listened to everything Yohko said.
When Yohko finished, she asked, "How come you are the only
one that speaks?'
"Azusa-chan doesn't speak English. She is still trying to
understand some of the words," Yohko explained.
"I personally thank you two for helping us out. I know you
have had a trying time, so I'll escort you back out. I hope that
you enjoy your stay here and try to stay out of trouble."
"We'll try," Yohko responded as they rose.
Steve was still waiting for them when they emerged from the
Station. "How did it go?"
"Quite well in fact. For a moment there, we were going to be
in trouble," Yohko answered.
"Well you might be when John finds out what you two have been
doing today," he commented as he opened the door.
"Arigato Steve-san," Azusa said as she joined Yohko in the
back.
"Do itashimashite," Steve replied in terrible Japanese. All
three laughed. Smiling to everyone and no one, he walked around and
slid behind the wheel.
-//-
"Good evening, and welcome to the Channel Five Evening News,"
the news anchor began. "Earlier today in Town Square, a armed
robbery was thwarted by two young ladies visiting here from their
rigorous encounter in England."
John Hampton looked over at his guests and stared at them.
The two young ladies looked at each other and shrugged. "Couldn't
have been avoided," Yohko said.
The screen shifted from the news to the store where Azusa
confronted the individual. When the screen shifted back to the
news desk, the anchor continued, "Following the altercation, the
crime fighters gave this report."
The scene shifted back to the Trade Center. Two young ladies
were sitting in front of the water fountain. "About a week ago, my
friend, John Hampton, called me and said that a friend of his, Rei
Nakano, was having a hard time solving a case. I readily agreed
that we could help out his friend. During one of the fights I was
injured and sent to the hospital. Azusa here had to finish up what
we were sent to do. Unfortunately for her, I was still in the
hospital when she had to fight the evil presence that was haunting
London. All we want to do now is relax and enjoy some piece and
quiet for a change. We thought that we were going to have an
uneventful time here and enjoy the sights. That was changed when
Azusa stopped the crime that was being committed."
"Ladies and Gentlemen, that was Yohko Mano and Azusa Kanzaki
from Yokohama Japan. Now for the latest in the war on drugs here
is Tony Martinez." John turned off the set and once again looked
over at his guests. "Seems that no matter where you go, something
has to turn up," he said with surprise in his voice."
"Gomen," Yohko said as she stood up. "Good night," she added
as she walked out the door. Azusa followed without uttering a word.
"I thought he would be more understanding," Azusa said as they
walked into Yohko's room.
"So did I," Yohko replied. "Normally he is very understanding.
I am not sure if we should stay here any longer. I think I'll ask
him to take us home."
"Not yet. There are some places that I want to see," Azusa
pleaded.
"Ok Azusa-chan. I think we can stay a couple more days."
"Arigato Yohko-chan," Azusa said as she gave her partner a
hug. "Oyasumi."
"Oyasumi," Yohko replied softly as her best friend walked
out. _I just want to go home,_ she thought, as she got ready for
bed. Crawling under the covers, she thought about her cousin back
in Yokohama. Sleep evaded her for an hour before settling over her.
Several hours later, Yohko woke up screaming. Azusa, John
and Liz came running into her room. From the look of the bed, the
young lady tossed and turned so much that the blankets were all up
at the head of the bed.
"Yohko-chan," Azusa said softly as she joined her friend on
the bed.
Facing her friend, Yohko wrapped her arms around her and
cried. "G-o-m-e-n," Yohko said between sobs.
The two of them sat there for an hour, just holding each
other; no words were spoken. Peace finally settled ever the
Hampton Household once again that night.
"Azusa-chan, something is terribly wrong. I can't explain
how I know, but I do. I believe that we are going to need all the
help we can get. I'll call Chi-chan and have her, Ayako and
Azusa-ni fly over here."
"Maybe John-san can help us too," Azusa said cheerfully.
"He can send his airplane to pick them up."
"He can what?" John said as he poked his head into the room.
Both girls jumped in surprise. "I was just checking up on the two
of you. Now what is it that you want me to do?"
"I had a terrible nightmare where several people were being
killed by something that isn't supposed to be here. I do not know
the location my dream showed me, but it is important that Ayako,
Azusa-ni and Chi be here when the location is finally revealed." A
few new tears started running down Yohko's cheeks.
"I'll call the airport. Then you call your friends. You
should know by now, that I cannot refuse to support you," he said
as he stepped out of the room.
"He is a good friend, ne?" Azusa asked.
"Hai"
By the time Yohko and Azusa joined John in the kitchen, he
was waiting for them. "I can have the plane there at three p.m. I
have instructed the crew to wait for them."
"Arigato John-san," Yohko said as she gave him a hug. As she
let go, she picked up the phone and called the operator.
"Operator, how can I help you?" A soft feminine voice asked.
"I like to place a call to Japan. The number is 81-00-111-
5792."
"One moment please."
"Moshi moshi," a soft young voice said.
"Chi." Yohko began.
"Yohko-chan," Chi interrupted with surprise in her voice.
"We were worried about you two. Is everything ok? Are you two
safe?"
"Chi, I need a major favor to ask you, Ayako and Azusa-ni. A
plane will be at Narita at three, tomorrow afternoon. I could use
your help. Something is happening and I don't think that Azusa and
myself can handle this one."
"You want Ayako, Azusa-ni and myself fly to the States? We
don't have any passports. How are they going to let us in?"
"Chi, Azusa and I don't have one either. Just be on that
plane. Please?"
"I'll let them know. At least you could have given us more
time to prepare than the twenty three hours we have."
"Gomen Chi-chan. Please hurry." Yohko said with a pleading
voice.
"Hai. Ja ne."
-//-
After hanging up the phone, Chi called Ayako and relayed the
information. Ayako was just as startled with the news as Chi was.
Neither of them expected Yohko to call for help, she was the most
experienced one of the entire group. In the end, they agreed to go.
Chapter Two: SITREP
The field agents returned without any useful information.
"Sorry sir," Colonel Thomas said to open the meeting. "According
to the FAA, their flight was logged as classified." The last word
was emphasized with distaste. She always hated that term,
especially if it prevented her from doing her job.
"Classified? Who filed it?" the general asked with surprise.
"The flight plan was filed by John Hampton Senior," Libby
answered.
"I didn't know he was involved with them," Admiral Roberts
inserted.
"Just who is John Hampton Senior?" General Adams asked. He
was getting tired of asking questions that should have been
explained in the first place. Likewise, he hated surprises and so
far he was surprised twice in as many minutes.
"Sir, John Hampton Senior owns the second largest military
electronics manufacturing company along with several civilian
companies including the Minnesota Fighting Saints. His portfolio
makes him one of the top richest people in the country," Libby
paused as she let that sink in. "Also, according to Narita, Los
Angeles and Heathrow International Airports, his personal 747,
Wizard I, transported them."
"Where is the plane right now?" the general asked.
"That sir is unknown. She was seen n Minnesota, Alaska and
Hong Kong," Libby replied.
"Find me that plane," a buzzer interrupted him in mid
sentence. "What is it?"
"Sir," a shaky voice replied, "Field Agent Donnelly just
reported that they were seen in Minnesota."
"Thank you Andy," the General said as he released the button.
Turning his attention to Colonel Thomas, he asked, "Whom do we
have in Minnesota?"
Flipping open her electronic data book, Libby punched a
couple of buttons then shook her head. "Sir we have Field Agent
Angel." Looking up she added, "She is relatively green. Angel
has been with us for about two and a half years."
"Tell me what you know about her," the general asked as he
sat back.
After a sip of water, she glanced at her data book. "Sir,
according to our records, Field Agent Angel graduated the top of
her class. In fact, her overall grades exceeded all others by
fifteen percent. Her field record states that she has helped both
the local and federal authorities in tracking down the Riverside
Strangler. Without her help, the St Paul police would still be
looking for him. Twice in the past year she has been given a
citation for bravery by the mayor of St Paul and the governor."
"If she is that good, why is she in Minnesota instead of the
home office?" the admiral asked.
"Sir, upon graduation, she was offered several places. She
chose Minnesota because she was born there." Libby closed her data
book and looked at the painting behind the general's chair. Over
the last five years, she had only glanced at it. This time she
really looked. The scene depicted several sailboats racing in
some unknown harbor. On the sail of the lead boat were the letters
SBTT.
Without turning his head, the general stated, "That was
painted from a photograph the wife took when I was still racing
'Sail Boat Tiny Tim'." Putting his hands on the table, he
continued, "Whenever I am in the mood, I take Tiny Tim II out on
Lake Mead. But that is a different subject."
Looking at the colonel directly, the general inquired, "Well
Colonel Thomas, how do you propose to have our agent contact the
young lady in question?"
"Sir, I need to meet with her first. From there we will
have to move carefully so that we do not seem too desperate," the
Colonel began.
"May I remind you, Colonel Thomas, that we are desperate!"
"I am well aware how," Libby was saying when the intercom
interrupted her.
"What is it Andy?" the general asked as he pushed the button
on top of the speaker.
"Sorry to bother you again sir, but Mr. Mondale is on line
three."
"Thank you Andy," the general said as he released the button.
Picking up the receiver, he pressed the blinking button. "Hello
Walt, I didn't expect you to call."
"After careful examination of the facts, I still have a few
connections with the government in question. Their Ambassador will
be here tomorrow for political reasons. I can have the Japanese
endorsement delivered to one of your agents in two days." Walt
explained.
"That would be fine. I am sending Colonel Thomas to
Minnesota to spearhead this project."
Colonel Thomas looked directly at her boss in utter shock. "I
can honestly say Walt, she is completely
speechless at this moment. Thanks again Walt."
"Don't mention it," the line went dead.
"You see Colonel, I can't send anybody. You know her and
this way, I know you can handle this properly." With that said,
he stood up and walked out of the conference room.
A few seconds later, the admiral walked out leaving her
sitting alone. When the door finally closed, she let out a sigh
that reverberated around the room. _I was planning on going to
Hawaii for vacation on Monday. Now I get to freeze my ass off._
Getting up, she walked out and headed to her office.
The office looked like any other office. An oak desk sat
along the back wall with diplomas and certificates hanging behind
her soft brown leather swivel chair. Pictures of her and her
friend sat on the left side of the desk and two phones sat on the
right. Sitting, she looked at the picture and said softly, "Maybe
next time sweetheart," as she picked up the gray receiver. "Tammy,
get Angel on the line, she should be home." Opening the right
bottom drawer, she pulled out a folder. While she waited, she
started to read Agent Angel's file.
Name: Angel, Amy Diane
Age: 26
DOB: 12/13/72
POB: Hibbing, MN.
College: University of Minnesota, Duluth
Major: Criminal Psychology
Minor: Journalism
Current Residence: St Paul, MN.
Hobbies: Camping, Hiking, and Skiing
The white phone buzzed. "Colonel Thomas"
"Agent Angel reporting in Ma'am," a soft feminine voice said.
"Amy, I'll be in St Paul tomorrow. Meet me in the lounge at
the Radisson at seven. I have a job for you."
"I'll be there."
After replacing the receiver in the cradle, Libby put the
file away, stood and grabbed her purse as she headed out of her
office. As she approached her secretary's desk, she said, "Take
the rest of the day off." Tammy looked up at her in surprise.
"Better yet, take the rest of the week off as well."
"I am not due for a vacation yet," Tammy said.
"I know, but I am not going to be here next week so you might
as well take the time off. Go spend it with your friend."
Reaching inside her purse, she handed the redhead two tickets to
Hawaii. "You deserve a wonderful two-week vacation in the Aloha
State. I am not going to need these."
Green eyes followed her boss leave the building. Taking a
closer look, Tammy discovered that are for first class and the
hotel reservations are for the most expensive hotel on the strip.
Taking her boss's order, she grabbed her purse and left as well.
-//-
Libby climbed into her pale blue '84 Ford Mustang. At one
time the color was dark blue but over the years, the desert sun
took its toll. Except for the paint, the car was still in
excellent condition. As the engine turned over, the air-
conditioning kicked in and started cooling the interior. Even
though the car was parked inside the garage, the inside of the car
was still hot.
Once she was on the road, Libby was already shifting into
third. By the time she was two blocks from her office, she as in
fifth and doing over ninety. A couple of years ago, she used to
drive in excess of a hundred. Then one day, all that changed.
Trying to avoid a coyote, she almost totaled her car and ended
her career permanently by barely missing the concrete bridge wall.
Easing up on the gas and downshifting, Libby pulled over and
stopped. Up ahead, four Military Police vehicles blocked the road.
Getting out of her car, she walked up to the nearest MP. With his
back to her, she knew who the officer was. He has pulled her over
more than three dozen times in the past month. "Sergeant Lambson,
what has happened?"
Still keeping his back to her, he replied, "We do not know
Colonel. The construction crew was digging over to the left of the
large crane. Then all of a sudden, something attacked the crew.
By the time we arrived, whatever it was, had left. We are still
checking out the scene."
"I need to get off the base quickly, Sergeant," Libby
announced in a harsh tone. "I can't sit here and wait for you to
finish up."
"Sorry Colonel, we have to keep everyone on base tonight."
"Does General Adams know about this?" Libby asked. Instead
of answering her, he cringed. "I didn't think so. I have urgent
business off base that I am going to be late for."
"Sorry again Colonel, I can't"
We'll see about that, she thought as she walked back to her
car.
"Colonel," Sergeant Lambson called over his shoulder, "If you
are planning on doing what I think you are, at least let me make
sure the road is clear."
At least he has brains, she thought as she climbed in behind
the wheel. After starting the engine, she backed the car up
several hundred feet before putting it in first. When the Sergeant
gave the signal, Libby took off. By the time she reached the MP,
she was already in third and shifting into fourth.
Without bothering to slow down, she glanced to her right and
took a brief look at the site. The construction crane laid on its
side and half buried in the sand. The bulldozer had its blade
forced up over the cab, which was destroyed almost to the point of
unrecognizable. She knew that the operators did not survive the
ordeal.
Instinctively, she dropped into fifth and headed to her small
residence across the base. She exceeded the forty-mile speed limit
by seventy as she hurried home. As she neared the housing area,
Libby downshifted to second. Tires squealed as she pulled into the
drive. Slamming on the brakes, she stopped six inches from embed-
ding the hood in to the dining area. Killing the engine, Libby
climbed out and almost ran to the front door. Once inside, she
quickly dialed a number.
"Air field," a squeaky male voice answered.
"This is Colonel Thomas, I need a plane ready within the
hour."
"Colonel, General Adams already called," the voice replied.
"S.C. Zero-Zero-Two is standing by at this time."
"Thanks," Libby commented before breaking the connection.
Dialing a second number, she waited for her friend to answer.
"Hi, you have reached the Matthews residence. I am sorry I
am unable to come to the phone. Please leave your name, number and
a brief message after the tone. <Beep>."
"I am unable to meet you tonight. I have to go to Minnesota.
I'll call when I return." After placing the receiver in its cradle,
she cursed, "Damn it all."
Fifteen minutes later, Libby was packed and headed to the
single strip airfield. Waiting for was a while Learjet with a red
stripe running down the fuselage. Standing at the end of the steps
was the pilot dressed in a typical flight suit.
"Good afternoon Colonel," the pilot said as he saluted her.
"Good afternoon Major," she replied as she returned the
salute. As she climbed on board, she glanced in his direction.
Steel gray eyes peaked out beneath auburn eyebrows. Stowing her
bag in the closet, she gathered her thoughts and sat in the first
plush chair on the left as the pilot closed the closed the hatch
and entered the cockpit.
"Colonel, we will be departing in a few minutes," the pilot
said over the speaker. "The bar is fully stocked and there are a
few sandwiches in the refrigerator. Make yourself comfortable, we
should be landing in three hours."
Ten minutes later, the small jet took off. Libby looked out
the window and watched the desert fall away. After the landing
gears were retracted, the pilot announced, "You may move about
freely. We should not experience any problems during the flight."
Getting up, Libby walked over to the bar and poured herself
double rum and coke. _How can an unknown person from one country
become a national hero in another country overnight?_ She thought
as she downed the drink. Taking a sandwich, she retrieved her
notebook and returned to her seat.
During her research, all she could find on Azusa Kanzaki was
that she recently turned eighteen and she stays with her friend
Yohko Mano. Even a search for the young lady's friend turned up
nothing useful. _Why can't this be such a simple job?_ Staring out
the window, Libby fell asleep.
"Colonel," the pilot said as he gently nudged her shoulder.
When her eyes opened, he continued, "We will be landing shortly."
"Thank you major," Libby said as she stretched and yawned.
"First time I fell asleep onboard an airplane." The pilot smiled
and returned to the cockpit. _Hopefully, this won't turn into a
wasted effort,_ Libby thought to herself as the landing gears came
down. Looking out the window, Libby noticed that the plane was
landing at the St Paul Municipal Airport instead of the
International Airport. As the plane pulled up beside the terminal,
she caught sight of a nondescript four door black sedan. The
driver looked bored but perked up when the plane came to a stop.
The pilot stepped out of the cockpit and opened the hatch.
"Colonel, you may exit now," he said before stepping off the plane.
Getting up, Libby stretched once more before picking up her
bag. As she stepped off the plane, the pilot saluted. "Thank you
for a smooth flight Major," she said as she returned the salute.
The driver opened the right rear door as she approached.
"Good evening Colonel. I hope you had a pleasant flight." Libby
nodded her head before sliding into the car. After placing her
bags in the trunk, the driver climbed in and pulled away. "We
should be arriving at the hotel in a few minutes."
"Thank you," she replied as she looked out the window. Doubt
began to enter her thoughts as the driver pulled onto Robert Street.
_Damn, I wish I could get this over with tonight,_ she thought as the
car turned onto Kellogg Blvd. _This is going to turn into a media
circus if I am not careful._ Her thoughts were interrupted when the
car stopped in front of the St Paul Radisson.
Libby exited the car when the door opened. "I'll need your
services again at ten tomorrow," she said as he closed the door.
"Yes Ma'am."
Libby walked into the hotel and as she approached the front
desk, a middle-aged woman wearing a pale green dress under the
maroon colored jacket came out from behind the partition. "Good
evening. How can I help you?"
" I would like to check in. There should be a reservation
for Colonel Libby Thomas."
The clerk tapped the keyboard a few times and looked back up.
"Yes we do," she said as she handed over a reservation form. "Your
room is on the 10th floor. Room ten oh five." When Libby handed
the form back, the clerk handed Libby the key. "I hope you have a
pleasant stay." Turning her attention to the bellhop, she added,
"Take her luggage up to ten oh three."
Libby turned to the bellhop and was greeted with a face that
belonged on a fifteen-year-old instead of a college student. His
short brown hair was parted down the middle and feathered back.
The nameplate read Billy. "If you would follow me please," he
said in a soft cheery voice.
The ride up to the room was in silence. Both looked at the
door. As the door opened, Billy stepped out first and waited for
her to follow. As they entered the room, Libby said softly, "You
can leave them by the door."
Billy took the offered tip and smiled. "Thank you," he said
as he walked out.
When the door closed, Libby let out a sigh. Walking over to
the window, she pulled the curtains aside and looked out over the
river. In the last five years of her career, she has traveled
across the country and never found a place that equaled the Twin
Cities. The first time she was here, the Winter Carnival was in
full swing. People from all over were there to marvel at the
sights of ice sculptures and the ice castle. The castle itself
was impressive. That was the year that Pepsi sponsored the
construction. Then, she was here for the sights, now she was here
for work. Something she wished she didn't have to do.
_I hope that I can convince her that this isn't a waste of
time,_ she thought as she closed the curtains. Picking up her bags,
she started to unpack. Taking a clean set of undergarments, she
headed to the shower. Twenty minutes later, she emerged with
pruned fingers and toes. "Well Lib, what are you going to do now?"
She asked herself as she slipped on a pair of brown casual slacks
and an off white blouse. "You could go to the Buttery. It's only
a few bocks away and you did like it the last time you were
here." Grabbing her coat, she decided to take up her own offer and
headed to the corner of Fifth and Robert.
Stepping inside, she could hear the piano play over the
hushed murmur of the customers. Tonight isn't as crowded as the
last time she was here. Finding a table, she took off her coat
and sat. Just as she sat, the waitress came over.
"What would you like?" she asked. Pale blue eyes sparkled in
the soft light. Long wavy blonde hair framed a small oval shaped
face.
"A rum and coke please," Libby said as she looked about the
room. Luckily, she didn't see anyone she knew. She didn't want
to explain her presence without letting them know that she was in
town. For the next four hours, Libby sat and listened to the music
and enjoyed her drinks.
-//-
The next morning Libby woke up with a slight headache. "Too
much rum last night dear." Gathering her thoughts and trying to
get her eyes working again, she crawled out of bead and headed for
the shower.
Fifteen minutes, later, she was dressed and applying her
make-up when the phone rang. "Hello," she said.
"Good morning, this is your wake up call," a too cheery voice
said.
"Ah right, I forgot that. Thank you," she said as she hung up
the phone. _I need to remember these things._ Taking her purse,
she headed down to the Greenery restaurant and ordered breakfast.
Once she finished eating, she waited in the lobby for her car to
arrive. She didn't have to wait long.
"Good morning Ma'am, where would you like to go?" he asked as
he opened the door.
"Good morning to you too," she replied as she slid in the
back seat. She waited for the driver to get in before she answered
his question. "I need to go to the Capital building."
"Sure thing," he said as he pulled away.
Ten minutes later, they arrived at the Capitol. "Here you
are Ma'am," he said as he opened the door.
"Thank you," she commented as she stepped out. "I am not
sure how long I am going to be here. I'll take a cab back to the
hotel. Go take the rest of the day off. I'll call you in the
morning."
"Thank you and have a pleasant day," he said as he climbed
into the car.
_One less person to deal with,_ she thought as she entered
the building. Stepping into the rotunda, she looked at the
registry and found the name she was looking for. Heading in
that direction, she noticed that pages and aids running up and
down the hallway carrying books and other items their bosses
required for the day.
Arriving at her destination, Libby opened the door and
was greeted by a young lady dressed in a pale blue pantsuit.
"How can I help you?"
"I am here to see Mr. Mondale. He is expecting me."
"Whom shall I say is waiting?"
"Colonel Thomas," Libby answered. The secretary gave her a
strange look. For one thing, Libby wasn't in uniform and the
secretary thought that was odd.
"I'll let him know you are here," she said as she buzzed the
inner office.
"Yes," a voice replied.
"Sir, there is a Colonel Thomas to see you."
"By all means, send her in."
"You may go in," the secretary said with a touch of sarcasm
in her voice. The girl didn't trust the visitor at all.
"Colonel, it is good to see you again," Walter said as he
closed the door after giving his secretary a look. "So are you
here because of General Adams?"
"It is good to see you again Walt. And yes, I am here
because of General Adams. He figures that if I am on the case,
nothing will leak out."
For the next hour and a half, they sat and discussed the
reason for his help. In the end, he decided that his friend, the
General was in a bind and that he was in the position to lend a
hand.
"Thank you once again Walt," Libby said as she opened the
door. "Maybe next time, we can meet under a non working
atmosphere."
"I hope so. Take care of your self and tell the old fart to
get his butt up here for a vacation." Walt joined her at the door
and shook her hand, "Is there anything else I can do?"
"You have done more than enough. I'm going to call a cab
and head back to the hotel. See you later, Walt," Libby said as
she stepped into the outer office. On the way out, she gave a sly
smile and a wink to the secretary.
-//-
Libby arrived at the cocktail lounge a few minutes early.
Picking a table by the entrance, she sat facing the doorway. She
wasn't sure if Agent Angel would recognize her, so she took the
most convenient spot to watch for her new partner.
Promptly at seven, a slender woman wearing a dark brown
business suit walked in. From the photograph, Libby knew that
she was the one she was looking for. Agent Angel spotted her
right from the beginning and walked over to the table. The agent
recently cut her long tresses so that her brown hair came down to
the collar of her jacket. Light brown eyes took in the scenery as
she sat. In a soft tone, Agent Angel began, "Agent Angel reporting
as ordered ma'am."
"We can cut the formalities for the duration of this
mission," Libby countered. "There is a touchy subject back in
the west. You are aware of the demon fighting duo from England,"
Angel nodded. "Just so happens, they are here right now and we
are going to ask for their help."
"Where do I come in," Angel asked.
"You, Amy, are going to be the chief negotiator with them
since you know Japanese fluently."
"If they are from Japan, how can we have them work for us?
Don't we need an agreement from Tokyo first?" Amy asked.
"I have the necessary paperwork up in my room. We will have
to finalize the procedures as to how we are going to present our
case and convince them that we really need their help," Libby
explained.
"That should be no problem," Amy stated. "Where are they
staying?"
"They are at John Hampton JR's residence," Libby replied.
Chapter Three: Recruiting
For Ayako, Azusa-ni and Chi, this was their first plane ride.
They were amazed as to the size of the plane. Neither of the three
knew what this trip was about. Yohko didn't explain anything other
than the plane would be waiting for them at Narita. _Whatever the
reason, Yohko must know what she is doing,_ Ayako thought as she
stared out the window. No matter where she looked, all she saw
was water. _Damn her, I was supposed to go out on a date and she
has to drag me half way across the world for what? I don't know
and she didn't say._
Chi sat with her hands on her lap as she kept her eyes
focused on the panel in front of her. To the others, she looked
calm, but on the inside she was scared stiff. At first, she was
looking forward to the flight, but as the plane took off, she
decided that she should have stayed home. Her grades in Computer
Science and Computer Programming were outstanding. She kept
wondering if this trip was going to ruin her grades.
Azusa-ni was completely excited about the trip. She roamed
the entire plane and even went up to the cockpit. If the plane
had an observation room, Azusa-ni would be thrilled beyond relief.
"Can you believe that we are going to the States?" She asked no
one in particular.
"No I can't," Ayako replied.
"What about you, Chi?" Azusa-ni asked as she faced her
business manager.
"W...h...a...t?" Chi asked nervously.
"I asked 'can you believe that we are going to the States?'"
Azusa-ni asked again.
*"NO. Now stop bothering me,"* Chi replied hastily.
Feeling dejected, Azusa-ni moved to the back of the plane and
looked out the window. _Why is it that whenever I talk to her, she
doesn't want to? I don't understand her,_ Azusa-ni thought as she
watched the clouds drift underneath the plane.
Ayako sat looking out over the water and let her mind wander.
_First off, Yohko heads England to fight a spirit that should have
been dead over two hundred years. Now she is in the States getting
ready to fight something that should not be there._ Letting out a
sigh, Ayako reclined the seat and closed her eyes. _At times, I am
glad that my grandmother didn't become the 108th Devil Hunter. I
have had a quieter time these last four years compared to my
cousin. I am surprised that she has kept her sanity. If it were
me that had to travel all over Japan trying to kill things that
have no reason for being in this timeframe I would have gone crazy.
_Yohko knows that I care about her and that I would do any-
thing that she asked me to do. But I have no idea if I can do
anything for her this time. She is counting on us to give her the
support that she needs in whatever situation that this turns out
to be. I have to be strong and lend that hand. But damn it, I
should be home with my date right now and not going half way around
the world. I hope you know what you are asking for, Yohko._
-//-
"Ladies," a voice came across the speakers, "we will be
landing in a few minutes. Please put your seats in the upright
position and strap yourselves in. Right now, the temperature is
zero degrees with a light northerly wind."
"Oh goody," Azusa-ni cried as she pulled the seatbelt tight
across her waist. She looked over and saw Chi turn paler than she
did a few moments ago. _Now I know why she wasn't talkative. She
is scared to death._ From where she sat, Azusa-ni wished her friend
well. "Chi, everything will be alright."
Chi looked at the youngest member of the group and flashed a
halfhearted smile. _I hope that she is right because this doesn't
feel right._
-//-
The jumbo jet touched down at the Minneapolis-St Paul
International Airport at two twenty in the afternoon. Fifteen
minutes later, the passengers were stepping off the stairs.
Waiting for them was their friend and partner. Yohko was so happy
that she ran up to them and gave each one a hug. Tears of
happiness were running down her cheeks.
Standing behind her, Azusa stood in silence. Her expression
was mixed with happiness and sorrow. Azusa was happy to see the
others and at the same time she realized that Yohko would not be
able to spend time with her. Walking slowly, she approached them.
"Azusa-ni, what happened to you?" She asked when she came up to
her.
"That happened the same day you left for London. Chi had a
job lined up for you two and since you already left, we were asked.
Made a small amount of money, too."
"Come on, you can tell me all about it and then I'll tell you
about our adventure," Azusa said as she placed a comforting arm
around her friend.
Ayako and Yohko looked at them and smiled. "It seems that
they will be getting along fine," Yohko said. Turning her
attention to Chi, her smile faded. "Nani?"
Chi looked away and followed the younger members. "I think
she was scared to death," Ayako whispered. "She didn't talk to any
of us and remained in her seat the entire time."
"In that case, let's go get some ice cream. That usually
cheers her up," Yohko said as they tagged along. "Come meet the
man behind the plane."
-//-
After they retrieved their luggage, they met up with Steve.
"Could you take us someplace that serves ice cream?" Yohko asked
quietly before climbing in. Nodding, Steve slid behind the
steering wheel and headed over to the mall.
"Where are we headed," Azusa asked. "John-san lives in the
other direction."
"Not to worry, Azusa," Yohko began. Leaning over, she
whispered, "I am going to treat Chi to some ice cream."
"Oh," was the only thing Azusa said. Turning her attention
to Azusa-ni, she asked, "Are you telling me that you broke your
ankle fighting a Demon in Tokyo?" Ayako snickered and Chi giggled.
"Quiet you two," Azusa-ni snarled at them. "Yes, Ayako and
I were fighting a Demon and as I threw the final blow, I landed
wrong. If it weren't for Yuta, I would have had a rough time. He
is so sweet." Ayako began to laugh. "Nani?"
"Nothing Azusa-ni," Ayako said trying to rebuild her
composure.
"Anyway, after we finished, I was limping on the way out of
the warehouse. Baaba-san took me to the doctor's office, where I
found out that I broke my ankle. All in all, it was an experience
that I don't want to live through again."
"I know how you feel. When I met Haruka for the first time,
I had died. The next time I die, I do not plan on returning back
to life." Yohko shrugged her shoulders, turned to the window as a
tear rolled down her face.
"Yohko, you know that it was my fault that you were killed.
I never meant to cause so much trouble that day, Azusa said as
tears ran down her face. "I have caused more trouble and pain for
you that I should have quit when I had the chance."
The other members of the group sat and stared at her. "Azusa,
you know as well as I do, that you could not have quit the other
day. Even Haruka-san said so. I need you as well as you need me.
If it weren't for you, I would have been permanently dead several
times over by now. So I do not want to hear any more about it."
"So why did you send for us?" Ayako asked.
"That can wait. First off, I asked Steve to take us somewhere
that serves ice cream in the winter. And speaking of which, we are
here."
"I didn't expect this to be this big," Azusa-ni said as she
looked at the building.
"Since I am not sure how long we are going to be here, I
suggest that we look around for a while
and do some shopping." Yohko said as the car pulled up to the curb.
"I don't have any money," Azusa-ni said as she climbed out.
"At least we can look around," Yohko replied. "Steve, we are
going to look around for a while."
"That is ok. Do you mind if I tag along?"
"By all means," Yohko answered.
-//-
Two hours later, the six of them walked out of the mall. The
three new comers were amazed at all the stores and the amusement
park in the middle. Even though they didn't have any readily funds,
each one carried a couple of packages out, compliments of Steve.
They would have stayed inside longer but Chi started to fall asleep
while she was eating her double chocolate sundae.
Within a half-hour, Steve pulled in the driveway. Like the
mall, the girls were amazed at the size of the house. "John-san is
expecting you so there should not be any inconvenience," Steve said
as he opened the door.
Before they could enter the house, John walked out of the
house. "Since you are all here, you might as well stay in the
guesthouse. I don't have enough rooms in the main house for all
of you. I believe you should be able to talk about your problems
without anyone disturbing you."
"Thank you John-san," Yohko said as she gave him a kiss on
the cheek. "We appreciate the offer and Tom and Marcy aren't any
trouble. They are just being kids, they are curious about anything
new."
"They will appreciate that. But Liz and I agree that you
five need your privacy and this is the only way you will be able
to have it," John said as he unlocked the guesthouse. You should
be comfortable in here. The refrigerator and pantry are stocked.
Firewood is stacked next to the fireplace. Liz and Missy packed
your things and placed them inside. If there is anything else I
can do, feel free to ask."
"Thanks again John-san," Yohko said as he walked out.
Together, they walked through the house. A fireplace sat
along the west wall of the living room.
The kitchen was the same size as Yohko's and the hallway ran
north and south behind the living room and kitchen. Off the hall
were three bedrooms. Each bedroom had it's own bath with a common
bath between the living room and kitchen. Yohko and Azusa took the
room by the kitchen and Chi took the middle room, leaving the one
by the living room for Azusa-ni and Ayako. They placed their
belongings in their rooms and gathered in the living room.
Yohko built a fire as Ayako found a bottle of wine. Azusa
and Azusa-ni were looking through the stack of records when Ayako
handed each one a glass of red wine and sat on the floor next to
the fireplace. The only light source came from the flickering
flames.
Sitting next to Ayako, Yohko cleared her throat and waited
for everyone to sit. "The other night, I woke up screaming. In
fact I woke the entire house. That was when I told John-san that
I needed your help. He volunteered the use of his plane to bring
you here. And in doing so, he has placed himself in major trouble
with the law. All five of us have entered this country without
going through customs and neither of us have a passport. But that
is a different problem.
"I called you here because there is a problem somewhere in
this country that neither Azusa and myself can handle. We need
your help." Yohko looked at each of them as she spoke. When she
noticed Chi about to say something, she added, "Before you ask Chi,
your area is going to be the computer support.
You have more knowledge in that area than the rest of us."
Pausing to take a sip of wine, she let that soak in before she
continued. "Somewhere out there is our point of contact. I don't
know where but he or she is out there."
"Yohko, you and Azusa are better able to handle anything
than the rest of us," Ayako said as she drained her glass.
Getting up to retrieve the bottle, she added, "Besides, you have
been doing this a lot longer that the rest of us and Chi has no
idea what to do."
"I understand your reluctance cousin, but we will need every-
one's help before this is over. I have no idea what is out there
to give me the frights but I am frightened none the less."
"But what can I do to help? I am the one wearing a cast
around here." Azusa-ni said as she banged her foot against the
floor.
"There is a lot you can do, Azusa-ni." Yohko stood and
walked over to the intercom between the houses. A few moments
passed after she pushed the buzzer.
"Is everything alright?" John asked as he answered.
"Just fine, John-san. Is it possible to take Azusa-ni to the
doctor's to remove her cast?"
"How long has she had it on?"
"About two weeks, why?"
"Yohko-chan, usually a cast is on for six weeks. But yes, I
can take her to the doctor's in the morning."
"Thank you John-san," Yohko said as she released the talk
button. Returning to the group, she walked over to Azusa-ni and
sat at her feet. Placing her hand on the cast, Yohko concentrated.
A pale blue light could be seen around the cast. Azusa-ni looked
at her in awe.
"What did you just do?" Azusa-ni asked in a voice full of
wonder.
"What should have been done the same day you broke it.
Tomorrow, your cast can come off. I can't have my support unable
to do their job, now can I?" Yohko said as she let go of the cast.
"Now off to bed the three of you. You have had a very long day
and tomorrow will come way too early."
They all stood up and headed to their beds. Azusa watched
them leave the room and sighed. Turning to Yohko, she said, "You
still amaze me, Yohko. I didn't know that you could do that."
"The power comes from the stones. I am tied to the spirit
world since I was restored to life, and now it is possible that
Azusa-ni is tied to them as well."
*"What?"* Azusa-ni cried out. *"What do you mean by that?"*
"It is possible that since I healed your foot the really
weak and piddly ones will come and seek you out. I doubt that
since I did not use that much power. They and I are drawn to each
other because of the stones. Don't forget the stones were used to
restore my life. But I would not be too worried about it. There
is no way that any Demon would go after anyone as ugly as you," she
added with laughter.
"Who you calling ugly?" Azusa-ni asked as she threw a pillow
at her.
"Go to bed," Yohko said as she handed the pillow back. "See
you in the morning."
Azusa waited for them to be alone, "What are we going to do?"
"While they are sleeping, we could go out and practice,"
Yohko answered.
"That is not what I meant," Azusa began.
"I know what you meant. We are going to do what we trained
for. We will always do that. The five of us will solve this
problem and go back home. I wonder what mother is doing right
now? You know, I haven't been away from home this long before.
The last time was only a few days. I cannot remember the last
time I sat and talked with my mother. It must have been seven or
eight years now." Yohko looked at the dying fire and let out a
long sigh.
"I am going to put another log on the fire and then sit and
think things through," Azusa said as she walked over to the pile
of wood. "What are you going to do?"
Standing up, Yohko put on her coat and said, "I think I'll
go back down to the big church and think. I feel comfortable
there. Maybe the pastor will be around to talk. See you later,"
Yohko added as she walked out the door.
Left alone, Azusa poured herself another glass of wine and
sat on the floor. She let her mind wonder as she looked into the
fire. _Azusa you will need to be strong for her. She is beginning
to doubt her ability. She is more than capable in handling
anything that comes her way. The Mano blood runs true through her
veins. Ever since I took up the stones, we women have been strong.
The last battle is bothering her. She knows that she was supposed
to be there next to you. I have talked to her through her dreams
and through you. Give her the help she needs and no more thoughts
about quitting. Only way to quit is to die and you are still
needed._
-//-
Yohko returned three hours later. The entire place was dark. As
she walked into the living room, she saw Azusa sleeping on the
floor with her head resting on the sofa. Not wanting to wake her
friend, Yohko went and took a blanket off her bed and draped it
around her friend. _I guess she had a trying day. Might as well
leave her sleep._ Walking into the kitchen, she turned the light
above the sink on and began fixing herself a ham and Swiss cheese
sandwich. As she poured herself a glass of milk, she remembered
the times she used to make the same kind of sandwiches for herself
and her mother. Afterwards they would go to the park, sit and talk
for hours. They were fun filled days of youth and happiness. A
tear rolled down her cheeks in memory of days gone by.
As the old saying goes, you can never return to your youth.
If it was possible, Yohko would in a heartbeat. That way she could
tell her grandmother that she did not want the responsibility of
being a Devil Hunter. Life was simpler when she was still a young
girl. No one depended on her and she lived a carefree life. The
biggest worry was whether she could get a passing grade in math.
Now, all that has changed, maybe for the better. Doubt ran through
her mind at that thought, _I wish I could believe that._
After eating, Yohko put the dishes in the sink and headed to
her room. Looking out the window onto the snow-covered lawn; she
said a short prayer. "May my ancestors provide me the guidance
that I need. Kami knows I have tried to do what was best for
everyone. Haruka-sama, please lend me your strength in this mess
that I have found myself in."
_Yohko-chan, I will always be there for you. All you have to
do is look inside yourself and I'll be there. Never forget that
you are the only true Devil Hunter in this world. Tomorrow will be
a different day and you will see much clearer than you do tonight.
Close your eyes and let the peace of sleep overtake you and forget
the worries of today,_ Haruka replied in Yohko's mind.
"I hope you are right, Haruka-sama. I still have doubts
about what is ahead of me," Yohko said as she crawled under the
covers. If Haruka replied, Yohko couldn't tell because she was
fast asleep as her head rested upon the pillow.
-//-
Shortly after one in the afternoon, a non-descript black four-
door sedan pulled up in front of the Hampton residence. No one on
the street noticed the two ladies as they stepped out into the cold
bitter wind. Both wore dark overcoats that came down to their
knees. They nodded to each other as they closed the doors and
headed up to the house.
John opened the door upon hearing the doorbell. "May I help
you?" He asked.
"My name is Colonel Thomas and this is Agent Angel. We are
here to talk to your visitors," Libby said as they flashed their
credentials.
"May I ask how you know I have visitors," John asked in
surprise.
"Mr. Hampton, the US government knows many things including
that you have one Miss Yohko Mano and a Miss Azusa Kanzaki," Libby
countered. "We also know that your personal plane just returned
from Tokyo with three other passengers. Now, would you please tell
them that we are here to discuss some business?"
"You might as well come in while I let them know," he replied
as he opened the door.
-//-
The five young ladies were sitting in the kitchen catching up
on everything that wasn't discussed the day before when the inter-
com buzzed. Yohko stood up and pushed the talk button, "Yes?"
"Yohko, you have two visitors from the government," John's
voice said. Oh no, we are in trouble now, Yohko thought. "Would
you like to come to the house or should I show them were you are?"
"John-san, would you show them here," Yohko said in a shaky
voice.
"I'd be glad to," John said as the line died.
"I wonder what that is about," Ayako said as Yohko returned
to the table. "Could it be that they know that we are in this
country illegally?"
"I have no idea," Yohko countered. "Might as well let them
explain."
-//-
A soft knock was heard at the front door. Azusa opened the
door and found two ladies standing there. From her perspective,
the oldest one looked about thirty and the other looked about
twenty. Then again, Azusa was never good at guessing ages.
"Konnichi-wa," she said.
The youngest one replied in perfect Japanese, "Konnichi-wa.
Mano desu ka?"
Without replying, Azusa turned and yelled, *"Yohko-chan."*
Yohko came to the door; "May I help you?" She asked in English.
"My name is Amy Angel and this is Libby Thomas. We are
Special Agents to the government.
There are a few things that we need to discuss. May we come in?"
Showing her guests in, the other members of the group came into the
living room. Yohko conducted the introductions as everyone found a
place to sit. "Now, may I ask why you have come to talk
to me?"
Libby started, "There has been a situation in a Top Secret
area that has caused more trouble than the US government is able
to handle. When your friend here was seen in London, we started an
inquiry on her. When the only thing that showed up was you, we
began one on you. Unfortunately, we are unable to find anything
other than that you two are students in Yokohama.
"Then when we found out that you were here in Saint Paul, we
decided to ask for your help. In fact, we were prepared to travel
to Yokohama." As she started talking, Ayako translated for both
Azusa's. With the last statement, every one turned to Libby with
surprise in their eyes.
"What kind of trouble are you having that would force you to
travel to Japan for help?" Azusa asked.
Amy looked at Libby, who produced a packet and handed it
over. In Japanese, Amy began, "A couple of weeks ago, strange
things started happening." Handing the packet to Yohko, Amy
continued, "Inside you will find the evidence of what is plaguing
the site."
Yohko opened the packet and took out the contents. The first
item she saw was the approval of the Japanese government. There
were photos that showed the damage caused by some powerful creature.
As she looked at the last photo, she turned ash white and dropped
the picture. Azusa was at her side in less than half a heartbeat.
She knew that scene from the dream the other night. "W...h...e...n?"
"That was just three days ago, why?" Libby answered.
Instead of answering, she looked at Azusa and said, "That was
the night I woke up screaming, remember?" Azusa nodded. Turning
her attention back to Amy, she spoke in the calmest voice she could
muster, "When do we leave?"
"Nani?" Came the reply from the other four members of the
group.
"I have to go. In fact we all have to. This is something
that I can't walk away from and neither can any of you. We have
to stop this problem before it moves to the nearest town."
"I'll join you Yohko," Azusa said as she gave her friend a hug.
Chi nodded in agreement.
"Me too," Azusa-ni said. "Ayako?"
"Sure," Ayako said with little conviction.
"That was too easy," Amy whispered to Libby when the girls
agreed.
"Ladies," Libby began, "We can be ready to leave in the
morning. We will pick you up at nine."
"We will be ready," Yohko replied.
"Arigato," Amy said as she shook Yohko's hand.
When the visitors left, the girls looked at each other in
complete and utter bewilderment. The only time something like this
happened was when Yohko and Azusa were asked to go to London. Now,
a government officially asked them. They sat in silence while Yohko
read the letter signed by the Prime Minister.
Mano Yohko,
You are hereby authorized by this office to lend
the aid the United States of America government seeks
as you see fit.
The government of Japan hereby withdraws from any
legal and/or financial actions by which may arise from
your assistance with the United States of America.
Prime Minister
Obuchi Keizo
"It seems that our government is leaving this matter up to
us," Yohko said as she put the letter down. "Also they are
removing themselves from this matter completely. If anything
should happen to any of us, they cannot be held responsible."
"That makes sense," Chi said. "I would say the same thing if
I was in his place." Ayako glared at her. "Look at this way, what
could they do? We have agreed to help and why should Tokyo be held
accountable? We made the choice to lend a hand. If anything
should to any of us, the United States government would be held
accountable."
"Chi is right," Yohko added. "We have been given the choice
to help and we took it. Whatever happens will depend on us. I
cannot put you in harms way. That choice is up to each of you.
All I could do was ask and each one of you has agreed to help.
That is what matters. Who cares if our government removes
themselves from any action we take."
"That is all that matters to me is," Azusa said. "That Yohko
asked for my help and I am going to give it to her. Let's get this
over and done with. I want to go visit my family soon."
The meeting broke up as they went into their rooms to pack
and prepare for the upcoming trip to who knows where. Yohko went
to discuss their decision to her friend and supporter. This time
the goodbye might be forever and she wanted to make sure he under-
stood. _This isn't going to be easy for either of us, Kami help
me._
Chapter Four: Battle Plans
The five Devil Hunters rose shortly after dawn. They were
ready to face what was ahead of them but they still had their
reservations that this was not going to be that easy. The only
one that has never seen any actual fighting was Chi. Chi was
eager to get this over with so that she could go back to Yokohama
and continue her studies in financial management.
Promptly at nine, the agents of the US government arrived.
The girls climbed into the car and headed to the Saint Paul
Municipal Airport. This was the first time any one of them has
crossed the Mississippi River. They were surprised to see such a
small airplane. For some reason, they were thinking that they were
going to fly in a plane that brought them into the country. Even
for the size of the plane, they were amazed as to the room inside.
There were seats for everyone and a couple left over.
"Good morning Ma'am," the pilot said as he saluted Libby.
The flight should take about four hours. We are cleared all the
way to the base."
"Thank you major," Libby replied as she returned the salute.
"Are we expecting any problems along the way?"
"No Ma'am. According to the weather bureau, the skies between
here and the base are clear and no chance of rain. The flight
should be smooth and comfortable," the pilot said as he closed the
hatch.
"Thank you major."
Ten minutes later, the plane was airborne and headed west.
-//-
"Tower this is Sierra Charlie Zero-Zero-One, request
clearance for landing."
"Sierra Charlie Zero-Zero-One this is Tower, clearance
granted. Welcome home. Pass to Colonel Thomas that General Adams
wants her in his office within twenty minutes of landing with her
guests."
"Roger Tower. Sierra Charlie Zero-Zero-One out."
Just as the landing gears were locked in the down position,
a building off to the right exploded in a flash of light. The
plane lurched to the left and rose. "Sierra Charlie Zero-Zero-One
this is Tower, request you use emergency landing site Five Three.
Main runway has been damaged. Pass to the Colonel that her presence
is requested ASAP."
"Tower this is Sierra Charlie Zero-Zero-One, roger out."
-//-
General Adams and Admiral Roberts rose when Colonel Thomas
and her guests walked into the conference room. The look on their
faces told more than they wanted to. Whatever caused the building
to explode rode heavily on them and that it was the latest event
to happen to this quiet and peaceful research base.
"Admiral, General, may I introduce Yohko Mano, Azusa Kanzaki,
Chikago Okagawa, Ayako Mano and Azusa Nibunno. Yohko and Azusa
were the ones involved in England. The others are friends and
partners."
"Nice meeting you all. Please have a seat so we can begin
the briefing," General Adams said as he shook their hands. "To be
honest with you, I am not sure that you can solve the problem that
has been plaguing us as of late. A couple of months ago, we
started building a new research center. Somewhere along the way,
something went wrong."
"What the General is trying not to say," Admiral Roberts
interjected, "is that we screwed up. Something was buried out
there that should not have been disturbed. Whatever it was, it's
now on the loose. We are hoping that the five of you will be able
to return it back to where it belongs."
"Admiral," Yohko began as she rested her hands on the table,
"I am not sure what is out there but we will do what we can.
Before we begin, our technical analyst here," pointing to Chi,
"will need all the information pertaining to when and where the
first encounter took place. From there we will be able to form a
starting point."
After pushing a button on the intercom, the door opened and
a young lady dressed in an army dress uniform entered. "Corporal
Jensen, please show Ms. Okagawa everything she needs."
"Yes sir," the corporal said. "Will you follow me please?"
Chi stood up and nodded to everyone in the room before following.
"Is there anything else you require?" General Adams asked.
"Sir, I believe the young ladies would like to discuss a few
things in private. I will show them to their quarters," Colonel
Thomas answered.
-//-
Corporal Jensen led the way to a corner office. The only
contents in the office were a computer desk, a computer and a
chair. "I hope you find what you are looking for," the Corporal
said before walking away. Chi pulled out the chair and sat. At
first, she was only able to get some generic military information
about the base. What she was looking for wasn't generic. As she
continued her search she found the right place, unfortunately, it
was password protected. Breaking passwords was her past time.
Just as she broke the password, a siren went off followed by
"Breach of security in sector nine." Colonel Thomas, General Adams
and several security personnel showed up.
"Secure from security breach," General Adams said as he
realized who the culprit was.
"I am sorry General, but we are under orders to apprehend all
violators," the security team leader said.
"Sergeant, this violator as you call her, is here under my
personal authorization. Now, if you need to apprehend anyone, then
you will have to take me instead."
The Sergeant stared at everyone before stating; "I still have
to report this to the chain of command sir." As he led the team
away, he thought it strange that a foreign national was able to
access classified information.
"Just what were you looking for?" General Adams asked when
the security team left.
"General, I am trying to figure out just what we are facing.
If the information wasn't so tightly controlled, then you would not
be in this mess. Here take a look for yourself, General. I have
what I was looking for."
-//-
"I will be happy to get this over with as soon as possible.
Imagine, I even had date for tonight," Ayako complained as she
dropped unceremoniously onto the bed she commandeered.
"You aren't the only one, cousin. Azusa and I have been
traveling around so much that I even forgot what the subject I am
supposed to be studying." Yohko said as she looked out the window
overlooking the desert. How anyone would want to work out here in
the middle of nowhere was beyond her comprehension. No one should
be isolated from the rest of the world like the workers here are.
Yohko was brought back to the present when Chi stormed into the
room.
"I figured out where this mess started from. Here take a
look," Chi said as she unfolded a map on the only table in the
room. "According to all reports, the construction crew were
digging to the right of the main research building here," she said
as she pointed to an area on the map. "The area in question had
remained untouched ever since the base was built in 1934. Since
that time the reason why has been lost and the area is right next
to the main research lab, they thought it would be the ideal place
to build. Unfortunately, that area was not to be touched, ever."
"What is so important about that?" Azusa asked.
Before Chi could answer, a voice behind them spoke, "Because
my sister was buried there." All eyes turned to the source and
stared. Standing three feet behind them was a spirit of a Native
American squaw. Neither Yohko's stones nor Azusa's hand bracer
gave off any hint of danger. The spirit continued, "I am glad you
all finally made it. I have been waiting for you." Each person
was able to understand what was being said.
"What do you mean you were waiting for us?" Yohko asked.
"Because I have felt your presence from across the great
water of the west. I am aware of your abilities and I know that
you are the ones to end the reign of terror my evil sister has
caused. Please sit and I will explain everything." When they
found a place to sit, the spirit continued, "Many years ago, my
sister used to capture small animals and torture them to her hearts
content. Gradually, she moved to infants and young children.
Since she didn't want anyone overhearing the crying, she used to
travel a day away from the camp to her small cave.
"At first, she would sneak into a camp of travelers and steal
a child. Over time, the children were getting scarce. She then
started torturing older children. Every once in a while, a young
brave or squaw would vanish from the tribe. No one knew what was
happening. Her demise came when she returned with the mangled
body of the chief's only son. According to her, she found the boy
near the cliffs. The tribe's medicine man took the body and
examined it. What he told the chief was that the boy did not fall
but was severely tortured.
"The chief and the medicine man confronted my sister. In
the heated argument that followed, my sister stated that all living
creatures should die and then attacked and killed the medicine man.
The chief then had my sister buried alive with the bodies of the
child and the medicine man. Ever since then, that small piece of
land has not been touched. That is, until recently. Our tribe
believes that the spirit of the wicked remains with the body until
released. It seems that my sister's evil spirit has found her
release and is continuing her attacks on every living creature.
"I am asking and begging each of you to end that. Do what
you have to do and send her spirit back where it belongs. She
should not have returned to the earth." With that said, the
spirit vanished.
The group of hunters sat in silence for ten minutes while
they comprehended what the spirit said. This was completely out
of the ordinary. Never had anything like this happen to any of the
Devil Hunters, at least that was what Yohko thought.
"So what do you think, Yohko?" Ayako asked to break the
silence.
"This might sound strange," Yohko began, "but we need to get
the spirit in one location. The only way I can think of is to
place seals throughout the base starting at the edges and working
inward. This is going to take all of us to do. In fact it will
take several days to complete."
" Nani? Do you have any idea how big this place is?" Chi
interjected. "It will take almost a week to do that."
"Nonetheless, we have to do it Chi. If we don't, there is
no telling where the spirit will move to and I for one do not plan
on spending any more time than necessary to eliminate this threat."
Yohko looked around the room and when no one voiced any more
complaints, she added, "I will talk to Colonel Thomas."
-//-
*"You what?"* Colonel Thomas stated. "Are you out of your
mind. If you do what you say you want to do, that will take about
two weeks and I for one don't plan on waiting that long."
"Colonel, please give me the benefit of the doubt. We will
have everything in place within a couple of days. Everyone that I
know of keeps forgetting that my family has been doing this sort
of thing for quite a long time. I know what needs to be done and
this is the only way that we will be able to solve this. We will
be in place so that the first seal will be set as the sun begins
to rise. With each seal in place, the field of play will shorten
substantially."
"Miss Mano," General Adams interjected, "What if..."
"General," Yohko interrupted, "each and everyone of us is
capable of taking care of ourselves. The longer we sit here and
debate the greater chance that the spirit will move to a more
populated area. And I for one do not plan on fighting in the
middle of a city. If you will excuse me, we have some plans to
make before morning."
-//-
Stopping by the Corporal's desk, Yohko inquired, "Where can I
get about a thousand sheets of paper?"
"A thousand?" The Corporal asked in bewilderment.
"Yes," Yohko answered.
"Ah, give me a moment," she said as she picked up the phone
and buzzed the Colonel. "Ma'am, Ms. Mano is asking for some
paper...A thousand...Yes ma'am...Thank you ma'am." Turning towards
Yohko, she added. Over by the copier is a box of paper. Take as
much as you need."
"Thank you Corporal Jensen.
-//-
Back in the room, Yohko opened the first ream of paper and
started drawing the same Kanji symbols on each sheet of paper.
Ayako and the others took a stack of paper and helped out. By the
time they were finished, Yohko looked at the clock by one of the
beds. Eleven. They were writing for over six hours.
Turning to Azusa, Yohko asked, "Do you have your guide book?"
In reply, Azusa walked over to her bed, opened her suitcase and
returned with the book. "Thank you." Flipping the pages until she
found the appropriate page, she added, "Now place the paper around
the room. Do not let them touch each other and leave the room
until I am finished. I do not want to be disturbed."
The four did as instructed and when they were finished, the
room looked like it was hit by a snowstorm. Once the door was
closed, Yohko began chanting, "Ancestors grant your powers to these
seals. May our combined might." Her words were interrupted by the
presence of Haruka Mano.
"Yohko, all you had to do was say three words," Haruka said
as she looked about the room. "And you could have left them in a
stack instead of scattered about." Yohko blushed as she lowered
her eyes to the floor. "Oh well, what's done is done. Remember
these words, Hiroka no na." The room shimmered in pale blue light
as the spell took effect. "When said, the seals will remain in one
place until a Devil Hunter moves them.
"If you want to cancel the spell, all you have to say is,
Hitoka no na," Haruka said as the room shimmered in green. "I
think I just cancelled the seals. When I leave, you can activate
them. Good luck Mamano Hunter Yohko."
"Thank you Mamano Hunter Haruka," Yohko said as Haruka
vanished. After picking up the paper, Yohko said, "Hiroka no na."
The stack shimmered in blue for three seconds as the spell took
effect.
-//-
As the other members returned, they could feel the power the
seals contained. No one asked what Yohko said to empower the seals.
"I'll tell you later," Yohko said as they sat next to the stack of
paper. "In the morning, each of us will take two hundred fifty
seals. The power of the seals will also enable us to move at a
faster pace than we normally do. In the meantime, I suggest we get
some sleep."
-//-
Yohko started out on the northern border, Ayako on the western,
Azusa in the south and Azusa-ni in the east. Each had a walkie-
talkie connected to Chi who sat in the control room. For every
fifteen paces, each of them placed a seal on the ground in front
of them and continued forward. As each seal was placed, the wards
inter-linked which created an invisible barrier. Gradually, they
worked towards the center of the base. As the sun started to set,
they covered one third of the base.
Chi radioed, "Ok, it's time to come in."
"I rather get this finished," Yohko radioed back.
"Me too," the others voiced in turn.
"This is Colonel Thomas, you cannot stay out once it is dark.
No one is authorized to be out after the sun sets. I highly
recommend that you all come back in and continue in the morning."
"Sorry Colonel," Yohko replied. "Then I suggest you change
that for tonight. This needs to be finished as soon as possible
even if it means we break a few rules along the way. We are running
out of time. We will stay out here until we get the job done.
That is what you hired us, isn't it Colonel?" After a short pause,
she added, "Ok Chi, how long until we reach the main compound?"
"If you keep up the speed, you should reach the first set of
buildings by four," Chi answered.
"Thanks Chi," Yohko said. "Ayako, do you think you can keep
up the pace?"
"Azusa-ni and I can keep up with you two. Don't let us worry
you. We have to finish this before sunrise."
With the first rays of the morning sun, they reached the
outlying buildings. The girls were tired and foot sore. Even
though they reached their destination, they still had to walk back
to the main buildings. "Okay Chi, we are at the main compound,"
Yohko said into the radio.
"You are still on schedule," Chi replied. In a softer
voice, she added, "And you should be aware of the fact that the
Colonel is highly upset with you."
"Thanks Chi," Yohko replied. "Ayako, you still willing to
go on?"
"Damn right I am."
"Me too," Azusa chimed in.
"So am I," Azusa-ni said eagerly.
By the time they reached the center of the base, the sun was
at its zenith. "Good work everyone," Yohko said when they joined
up. "Maybe we can keep this thing entrapped within the boundaries
we set."
"That is if it hasn't slipped past us," Azusa-ni commented.
No one wanted to think of the consequences if that happened.
It was bad enough that the thing was able to take out a construction
crew along with their equipment. If the spirit did leave the base
before they started, they would have a long trip to make on foot.
If they were successful in keeping the spirit contained, its anger
would definitely show itself within the next couple of hours.
"Okay, let's get some sleep before it decides to take revenge
on some poor innocent person." Yohko said as she stifled a yawn.
"I, for one, could use it."
"I could use a good long soak in some hot water," Ayako said.
"A bed would be good about now," Azusa commented as she let
out a yawn.
All eyes turned to Azusa-ni. She was asleep on her feet.
"How can she do that?" Azusa asked.
"I have no idea," Ayako answered. "In all the years we have
been together, she has always been able to sleep standing up. It
would be my luck if I tried that, I would fall and break something."
-//-
"What is taking them so long? They should have been here by
now," Colonel Thomas said as she paced back and forth.
"Colonel, try to relax. They know what they are doing. I
have known Yohko since we were in grade school." Staring at the
map, she added, "One thing I do know about Yohko is that when she
sets her mind on something, it takes something stronger to break
that concentration."
Colonel Thomas looked at the young Japanese lady and thought;
_I hope you are right about this, Chikago._ "You would not believe
the strings that I had to pull to allow them to be out on base all
night. If any of the brass in Washington found out, everybody's
ass would be in trouble. Even the General would have a hard time
keeping the five of you out of getting deported back to Japan."
"Colonel, we all understand the risks involved in this.
Every time they fight, there are always risks. You should talk to
them about England. Then again, some things are best left alone."
-//-
"Chi, we are headed in now," Yohko said.
"It is about time Ms Mano," Colonel Thomas replied. "I was
hoping that the four of you would be back before now."
"Colonel, we worked as fast as we could. Covering this base
took longer than we thought. We did not realize the exact size
before we started." Yawning, Yohko added, "Could we discuss this
after we had some sleep. It is bad enough with Azusa-ni sleeping
standing up. We do not want her falling on her face.
"Go get some sleep," Colonel Thomas said as she clicked off.
"You know, she can be a pain in the ass," Ayako commented as
a yawn escaped.
"I know, but she has been very helpful and understanding,"
Yohko added. "Besides, she is on our side. She has been in the
military longer than I have been fighting demons."
"True," Ayako countered. Turning to her partner, she added,
"Come on Azusa-ni, time for you to go to bed."
"Nani?" Azusa-ni stated as she came back to reality. "Gomen
Ayako-chan. How long was I asleep?"
"About five minutes," Yohko replied with a light chuckle in
her voice. "Come on, I can hear my bed calling me."
"Mine too," Azusa chimed in.
The four tired weary Devil Hunters headed back to the
barracks for much needed sleep. No one knew when the evil spirit
would make an appearance and when it did, they wanted to be ready
to counter anything it threw at them.
Chapter Five: War Zone
Yohko's stones and a scream woke her up. By the time she was
out of bed, everyone else was up and hurrying about. Within
minutes, they were in their battle dress; weapons ready and out the
door. Another scream came from one of the labs directly in front
of them. Upon reaching the building, Yohko's stones grew brighter
than they had in the past. Throwing Caution to the wind, they
entered. The lab was destroyed beyond use. A body lay amidst the
rubble. At closer inspection, the only way they could tell that
the unfortunate victim was a woman was the tattered remains of a
dress. The woman was ripped open and torn apart.
Yohko's anger flared to the point where eyes reflected the
color of her dress. In all her years of fighting, never before has
she seen anyone destroyed that badly. Azusa-ni vomited next to
the mangled remains of a lab table.
"Gomen," Azusa-ni said as she wiped her chin.
"It is alright. You did what you had to do. *Now lets go
find the bitch and end this,"* Yohko stated flatly as she headed
out of the building. Just at that same moment, a building off to
their right blew apart. The four girls hit the ground barely in
time as a large portion of a wall came at them. *"That's it.
The bitch is going down. I have had enough of her shit,"* Yohko
exclaimed as the heat of the moment took control over her mild
mannered vocabulary.
Heading off in the direction of the explosion, Yohko's stones
told her that the evil spirit was inside a damaged warehouse next
to the demolished building.
Getting into her standard pose, Yohko called out, *"Just when
I needed a vacation, you had to show up and cause problems. Bitch,
you have finally done it, now face the wrath of Yohko, the 108th
Devil Hunter!"*
*"And I, Devil Hunter Azusa."*
*"And I, Devil Hunter Ayako."*
*"And I, Devil Hunter Azusa-ni"*
The spirit popped out right in front them. *"What makes you
four think you can defeat me when no one has been able to do that?"*
*"Because I said so,"* Yohko called out. "Ready girls?" She
asked. The only response was three nods.
Facing the spirit, Yohko raised her sword and advanced. Azusa
moved off to the left while Ayako and Azusa-ni moved right to
encircle the evil spirit. As the others attacked, Ayako completed
her movement and tried to attack from behind. With everyone moving
at once, the spirit took advantage of Ayako's movement. Azusa-ni
missed the spirit and slashed Ayako across the back dropping her
friend to the ground. Screaming out in horror, Azusa-ni renewed
her efforts and was rewarded with a slash across it's back.
The spirit was forced to move away from the group and down an
isle. Yohko accidentally kicked Ayako in the chest as she followed
the demonic spirit. Ayako let out a groan from the impact. _At
least she is still alive,_ Yohko thought as she headed down the
isle. _I am sorry about that Ayako. I'll make it up to you when
this is over._
Upon reaching the demon, Yohko lashed out with a diagonal
upper cut and was rewarded with a demonic bellow that shook the
area. A few boxes fell from the shelves surrounding the fighters.
Everyone had to dodge out of the way.
Every once in a while, the hunters were able to connect.
Yohko's sword connected with the spirit's left arm. Azusa slashed
its right arm while Azusa-ni slashed its left leg from knee to ankle.
The three Hunters kept forcing the demon spirit farther and farther
away from their fallen comrade.
As each weapon hit the spirit, its movement slowed.
Occasionally, the spirit would jump out of range of the weapons.
Everyone kept the others in sight so that they did not have a
repeat of what happened to Ayako. Azusa lashed out causing the
demon to jump towards Azusa-ni who sliced into its left arm.
In a desperate move to get away, the demon dropped Azusa with
a diagonal cut from the left shoulder to the right hip. Azusa let
out a blood-curdling scream as she fell. The remaining Hunters
stared in disbelief as they watched. The brief pause gave the
demon a moment to move.
Unable to stop and help the others, Yohko and Azusa-ni
followed the demon. "Do you think they will survive?" Azusa-ni
asked as they moved.
"I do not know that answer. Many of the Hunters have fallen
in battle. If either of us stopped and helped, then their efforts
would have been in vain." Yohko looked at her cousin's partner and
added, "There have times when Azusa or myself left the other to
continue the battle. Neither of us felt guilty in leaving the
other behind. In fact, the last battle Azusa fought, she fought
alone because I was in the hospital. Each of us knew that we had a
job to do and if either of us stopped, then the demon would
eventually win. All I can say is to keep them in your mind but do
not lose your temper or the demon will use your anger against you."
As they came out of the warehouse, another scream came from
their left. Moving off in that direction, Azusa-ni asked, "Why
didn't they shut this place down? How are we going to end this
if there are more victims for it?"
"That is a very good question," Yohko answered. We should
ask the Colonel."
As they entered a lab of some kind, several animals lay s
cattered about in pieces. Azusa-ni noticed that several organs
were missing from the remains. A trail of blood led deeper into
the building. Yohko and Azusa-ni followed the trail, which led to
another lab. The lab was destroyed beyond any recognition of what
it was used for. Off to their left, another scream pierced the air.
"Doesn't it ever give up?" Azusa-ni asked under her breath.
"I have had enough of this," Yohko said as they dashed in the
direction of the sound. Before they could figure out exactly where
the sound came from, building number one zero three blew up.
Cursing, the girls headed in that direction while dodging flying
debris. Azusa-ni spotted the spirit move into another building.
Grabbing Yohko's hand, she led the way. "I hope that the building
has been evacuated," she said to Yohko.
"Me too Azusa. This base should have shut down."
Upon entering, they found the spirit in the process of
dismantling another victim. *"Stop,"* Yohko bellowed. The spirit
let out a laugh that was more appropriate for Halloween than any-
where else. _This battle is taking longer than it should. We hit
it enough to kill it,_ Yohko thought as they faced off once again.
"I told you that you cannot kill me," it said in a mocking
tone. "It is time for you to join the others," it added as it
advanced.
*"Not on your life!"* Azusa-ni exclaimed.
The spirit dropped the body as it tore the right arm off.
Using the recently removed limb as a weapon it swung at Yohko's
mid section. Diving out of range at the last possible second, she
got splattered with blood as she dove. Coming up on her feet,
she wiped the drops of her face and stepped towards the spirit.
Closing her eyes, Yohko calmed herself down. Opening her
eyes, she lashed out with a double-handed uppercut that barely
missed. Using the momentum of the swing, she reversed the angle of
attack and was rewarded with a diagonal cut across it's back.
-//-
No matter which way she moved, Azusa-ni was unable to find
an opening due to the speed of the current combatants. Taking this
time, she was able to assess the damage she took so far in the
battle. Realizing that she wasn't seriously injured, she waited
for an opening.
-//-
Yohko noticed that her current fighting partner was not a
ttacking. In order to bring her into the battle, Yohko maneuvered
the spirit in her direction. Giving a nod of access, Yohko let
Azusa-ni step behind the spirit as she kept it concentrated on her.
Azusa-ni took the opportunity to join in and was able to cut
the spirit down the back. The spirit turned to face the attacker
and exposed it's back to Yohko who took advantage of the opening
and cut the spirit across the shoulders.
The spirit backed away from its attackers. Seeing no easy
exit, it used the only option it had left, it vanished. *"Just
where do you think you are going?"* Azusa-ni cried out as they
looked around. Moments later they heard another agonizing scream.
Rolling their eyes, they headed out of the building.
Standing in front of them was the spirit and another
unfortunate victim. Instead of pulling off limbs, the spirit bit
the man in the throat and ripped his Adam's apple out. Unable to
scream again, the man's mouth opened and closed several times as
his blood spurted out. Within seconds, the man was dead.
As they watched the horrific scene, they noticed that the
spirit's strength and healing power return. Turning to Azusa-ni,
Yohko stated, "We need to keep that thing from reaching another
victim. Of we don't, we might turn into one of them."
"But how are we going to do that?"
"I have no idea."
"We could use some more of those seals, Yohko."
"I know. But we don't have time to stop and make them."
The spirit watched them with anticipation. "Are you two
going to stand there all day and discuss the weather?" It taunted
as it moved away.
With that, the two Devil Hunters advanced on the spirit.
Each determined to end this battle soon and not become another
victim. Taking cautious steps, they moved closer and closer. Just
as they were about to strike, the spirit vanished once again.
"Dammit, I hate it when it does that." Azusa-ni said quietly.
Before they could move, another building exploded. Luckily,
it was empty. The spirit roared in anger as it moved to another
building. Unable to move into the more populated areas of the base,
the spirit headed back to where the battle initially started.
Knowing that there were two bodies that could still be alive.
Even it doubted that, but it was a possibility.
Noticing the direction where the spirit was headed, the two
hunters dashed off to where their friends lay, each one taking a
fallen member. Before the spirit could reach them, Yohko stood
over the body of her cousin while Azusa-ni protected Azusa.
The spirit materialized in front of Yohko. Yohko was ready
and started the attack before the spirit realized what was
happening. In all the years that the spirit lived, it never faced
such powerful adversaries. All it knew was that it must win at all
costs.
Yohko kept up a pace that was used more by fencers then
swordsmen. The amount of attacks and counterattacks was beyond
anything that Yohko has done in the past. Madoka would be proud to
see her granddaughter fight like this. Even though she was hardly
hitting the spirit, Yohko wasn't tiring. A pale red glow was
emanating from her stones and bracelet. The light kept the spirit
from reaching her.
Realizing that it wasn't going to destroy it's attacker, it
decided to move to the other fallen member, figuring that Azusa-ni
would be less of a threat. It guessed wrong.
Waiting patiently for the inevitable arrival of the spirit,
Azusa-ni tried her best to bandage and comfort her friend. As the
spirit appeared, Azusa-ni was prepared for a battle to the death.
Placing her feet on each side of Azusa, she lowered her spear and
contemplated her move.
The spirit started to snicker at her. "So you think you can
defeat me?" It asked.
"I will die trying," Azusa-ni replied.
"Then prepare to die," the spirit added as it attacked.
Azusa-ni countered every strike and was able to get in a
couple of cuts. Eventually, she had to move away from Azusa so
she wouldn't cause any more damage to her. The spirit was
determined to eliminate the girl far faster than it was taking.
Azusa was not letting up on the offense and was able to quickly
shift to defense. The combined movements started to blur. Neither
letting up and forcing the other to defend alone.
The demon spirit realized it was fighting a losing battle
against the young fighter. Having had enough of the girl, the
spirit went to find easier game. Azusa-ni joined Yohko. "Yohko-
chan, do you think we have seen the last of it?"
"I do not think so. Remember Azusa, the spirit gets its
power from unfortunate victims and this base is still populated.
We must destroy the spirit before it murders everyone here,
including you and me," Yohko explained as they headed out.
They were met by four paramedics who quickly gathered the two
fallen fighters. "Take good care of them," Azusa-ni said as she
walked past them. They nodded as they continued past.
Silently the two hunters looked around the main compound.
Neither could fathom the massive destruction. To the north, four
buildings were beyond all hope of repair. Three buildings to the
south were partially damaged. One building to the west was burning
out of control while two were destroyed beyond recognition. The
only area that was left untouched was to the east, since there were
no buildings in that direction.
"I hope it doesn't find any more victims," Yohko said softly.
"It gets stronger with each victim. If we were able to prevent it
from finding another victim, she should be able to destroy it."
Azusa-ni nodded in agreement. "Now, we have to split up. This way
we can find it faster. You head off to the left and I'll go to the
right. If you find it, give a yell. And I'll do the same. Keep a
sharp lookout and be careful."
"I will Yohko-chan. You too."
Before splitting up, they gave each other a hug.
-//-
Yohko looked around cautiously as she moved away from her
current partner. Everywhere she looked, debris littered the ground.
Carefully, she moved between the remnants of the labs searching for
the evil spirit. This was the first battle she was in that she had
to go looking for her opponent. Usually, her opponent came looking
for her.
As she came to the last remaining building, Yohko slipped
inside and looked around. A few lab coats were scattered about like
the owners dropped them as they ran out the doors. All the cages
were empty and there was no sign of any kind of struggle. It
appeared as though all the occupants were able to escape without
harm.
Moving as safely as she could, Yohko worked her way back to
where she started. Every so often, she would stop and look around.
Finding no sign of the spirit, she continued on.
-//-
Azusa-ni didn't turn around to see if Yohko was looking back.
She knew that there was a job to be done and done quickly. No time
could be wasted by anything unnecessary. As she headed south, she
was just as careful as Yohko in her movements. She stopped more
often to examine little details that peaked her curiosity.
Finding no clues, she continued moving.
Stepping over some debris from Building one fourteen, she
spotted what appeared to be blood splatters. Upon closer
examination, she found what was left of a hand that belonged to a
woman. The diamond wedding ring was still attached to finger.
Feeling nauseas, she quickly looked away. Not far from where she
stood, she saw the rest of the remains. Silently Azusa-ni cursed,
"Bitch, you have had your run of freedom. Now you are going to
pay for it."
Upon reaching the ruined building, she quietly entered and
started to gag from the smell of rotting flesh. Knowing that she
had to continue inside, Azusa-ni suppressed the feelings and
started moving inward. As she reached the first hallway, she
quickly back peddled the way she came. The sight of several
bloated bodies repulsed her so much that she almost fainted from
the gore. Blood and body parts littered the first half of the hall.
The second half was streaked with blood and body tissue.
Forcing herself onward, she reentered the hallway and
meticulously stepped over the remains. Half way through the gore,
she accidentally kicked a foot. A cloud of gas rose from the
ripped ankle. Gagging from the gas, Azusa-ni quickly dashed down
the corridor and around the corner. Stopping to catch her breath,
she could here some sobbing coming from the other side of the room.
As soothing as possible, she called out, in broken English,
"It ok. You come now. I not to hurting you." She could hear the
person start to cry as some office furniture started to move.
"Ikimasho! Hyaku!"
A middle-aged woman came out from under a desk. Her short
salt and peppered colored hair was disheveled and her light green
pantsuit was covered in dried blood. From where she stood,
Azusa-ni could tell that she was uninjured.
Just as the woman started to walk towards her, the spirit
appeared. "Ah, I missed one," it said as it advanced on the woman.
*"Not on your life,"* Azusa-ni screamed and came attacking.
The woman screamed in horror and collapsed to the floor in terror-
induced unconsciousness.
The spirit seeing her quarry fall turned its attention to the
young fighter. "Why do you keep interfering with my plans?" It
asked as it looked at the battle ready fighter.
"We will keep interfering as long as you still remain in this
realm. You do not belong here and I am going to make sure that you
leave." Azusa-ni stated as she brought her spear down on the
spirit. The blade bit into its shoulder. The spirit screamed in
agony.
Even though the pain radiated down its arm, the spirit
advanced and counter attacked. Azusa-ni jumped backwards out of
harms way as the spirit moved. Seeing its target move, rage grew
inside it and renewed its effort to eliminate its opponent.
With the speed of the attacks, Azusa-ni could not move fast
enough. A few hits were able to connect. Blood started flowing
from cuts along her left forearm. Azusa-ni could tell that the
spirit was gaining strength from her own life-source. _If I can
keep it from hitting me, then I should be able to defeat this vile
creature,_ she thought as she jumped to the right in order to
avoid another cut.
-//-
Yohko could hear fighting coming from the direction
Azusa-ni went. _Damn, I hope that girl isn't taking the demon on
by herself, Yohko thought as she moved. If anything happens to
her, I will not be able to forgive myself for leaving her to fight
by herself. I let Azusa down and I'll be damned if I am going to
let Azusa-ni down._ Yohko started to run when she heard the demon
scream. _At least she is damaging that evil thing._
Yohko was able to navigate through the maze of debris that
was once laboratories. In all the years of fighting demons and
devils, Yohko never seen such damage as she was seeing from this
battle; nothing in her past prepared her for this sort of fight.
Only her training kept her from failing, and a fate worse than
anything she could imagine-and with her years of experience, she
could imagine entirely too damn much.
_Kami, please help us defeat this creature of evil and send
it back to where it belongs,_ Yohko prayed as she moved through the
ruins.
-//-
As Yohko came into the field of battle, she could see
Azusa-ni starting to weary from the fight. There was no way that
Azusa-ni was going to win fighting alone. The demon spirit already
had the upper hand. Azusa-ni was standing over a woman, trying to
keep the spirit from reaching the woman.
Upon seeing Yohko, Azusa-ni cried out, "Yohko-chan"
The spirit knew it was in trouble once again. It also knew that it
could not survive while the Devil Hunter was still standing.
Instead of taunting, it attacked Yohko with such fury that impressed
both Yohko and Azusa-ni.
"So you have finally come to die," It said as it attacked.
"No, I am here to defeat you," Yohko stated flatly. Calling
out, she prayed, "Ancestors give me the strength needed."
The spirit was pushed back a few feet from the power that
emanated from the fighter. Knowing that its existence in this world
was short, it turned its attention to the weaker fighter in hopes
of being able to regain some of its strength. It thought wrong.
Just as the spirit tried to attack, Yohko was there and
attacking. The spirit had to keep moving to avoid the deadly
weapon. Yohko was finally able to render the demon partially help-
less by severing its left hand above the wrist. Before Azusa-ni
could respond, the demon yelled in agony and vanished. They heard
a scream from an open window in front of them. As they charged out
of the building, the demon had a hold of Colonel Thomas and was
proceeding to rip her right arm off.
*"Bitch of the other world, get your filthy hands off of her
now,"* Azusa-ni screamed as the tip of her spear sliced a large gash
on it's back. The demon let go and screamed in pain loud enough to
shatter all the windows in the vicinity.
Just as the demon reached once again for Colonel Thomas, Yohko
knocked the Colonel to the ground and attacked the demon yelling,
*"Not on your filthy life."*
Unable to regain its lost energy, the demon's ability to
maintain its efforts, it failed to recognize the danger it found
itself in. Azusa-ni maneuvered behind the demon and in a
synchronized move, Yohko and Azusa-ni struck. With a final scream
of rage and anger, the demon literally blew apart as sword and
spear pierced its body. Blood, gore and small fragments of body
parts rained down on everyone.
As the demon shattered, an explosion erupted from its
original tomb, taking two hundred feet of dirt and a portion of a
wall with it. Leaving a crater twenty feet deep. The two
remaining Hunters collapsed from their injuries next to Colonel
Thomas.
Chapter Six: Recovery
Yohko woke up in a hospital room. _Seems like yesterday that
I was in a hospital,_ Yohko thought as she looked around the room.
A plate glass window faced the nurses stand, a door off to her right
led into the shower stall, a table with a blue plastic water bottle
and a blue plastic cup. A tube ran from a plastic bag above the bed
to her right arm. A white plastic clip on her right index finger
with wires ran to the wall by the bed.
A nurse dressed in blue, with short brown hair looked at Yohko
through the glass. Nodding at her, the nurse moved out from her
point of view and reappeared in the doorway. "How are you today?"
The nurse asked as she took Yohko's blood pressure.
"Kind of sore," Yohko replied.
"Understandable, considering you spent five hours in surgery."
"My friends?"
"They are recovering as well. Later, I'll take you to them,
now lie back and relax."
"What hospital are we in?"
"Balboa Naval Hospital in San Diego," the nurse replied as
Yohko nodded off once again.
-//-
"I see you are awake once again," the nurse from earlier
commented.
"Yes," Yohko said.
"Would you like to see your friends?"
"Yes
"I'll be right back," the nurse said as she stepped out of
the room.
Yohko realized that her hair was down and that her hand
bracer was missing. When the nurse returned with a wheelchair, she
asked, "Do you know what happened to my ring?"
"They are in the drawer next to you. The surgical staff had
to take it off."
Yohko opened the drawer, put on her bracer and placed the
stones in her lap. She could feel the power surge through her.
"I would rather walk," she said as the nurse moved the IV bag to
the hook attached to the wheelchair.
"Sorry, hospital rules. Patients must be in a wheelchair.
Dejectedly, Yohko climbed out of bed and sat in the chair.
As they moved out of the room, Yohko noticed the sign by the
door, Room 401 Mano, Yohko, FBI. _Strange, I don't remember being
employed by the FBI. Just doing a job for the government,_ Yohko
thought as they moved down the hall. The room next to hers, Room
402 was empty. Colonel Thomas occupied room 403.
"Colonel, you have a visitor," the nurse announced as they
entered.
"Yohko," Colonel Thomas beamed, "I was wondering when you
were going to show up. You look better than you did yesterday."
"I feel better Colonel. Have you seen the others?" Yohko
asked. Instead of answering, Libby turned away and started crying.
"Thank you Colonel, I'm going to look in on them." Turning to the
nurse, she added, "Let's continue."
Without a word, the nurse wheeled her out and down to Room
Azusa-ni was sitting up and tears were coming from her eyes. Seeing
her friend, Azusa-ni said between sobs, "Oh Yohko, we should have
helped them."
"It is ok Azusa-ni. We did what we had to do," Yohko said as
she ran her hand though her friend's hair.
"But Ayako. I heard she might not walk again," Azusa-ni
cried out.
"Could you take me to Ayako's room?" Yohko asked the nurse.
"I am sorry, only family members can see her," the nurse said
with sadness.
"I am family. She is my cousin and the only family member
that is close by. You can even ask Colonel Thomas."
Just then General Adams walked in. "How are my heroes doing?"
Azusa-ni cried out louder and turned away. Yohko looked at
each one individually then answered,
"It seems that I am unable to see my cousin because only
family members are allowed in."
The General turned to the nurse for confirmation, who nodded.
"Well, that will have to be corrected right now," he said as he
walked over to the nurse's station. Picking up the phone, he
called the commanding officer's office. "This is General Adams,
would you tell the Captain that I would like to see him in intensive
care. I don't care what he is doing, just tell him that I want him
here now. Good." Returning to the others, he added, "This should
be taken care of in a matter of moments."
Ten minutes later, Captain Brittain arrived in his dress white
uniform. Yohko noticed that his once dark brown hair has started
to turn gray. Dark brown eyes peaked out under bushy brown eyebrows.
"What can I do for you General?"
"It seems that one of your patients is unable to visit another
of your patients. I should remind you Captain, that the patients
in question are here because I sent them to you for care. I am not
going to tell you how to run your hospital, but exceptions to the
rules are in order here."
"General, regulations state." the Captain began.
"I don't care about regulations. Rules are meant to be broken
and this is one of those times. Do I make myself clear?"
"Yes sir," the Captain said. Turning to the nurse, he added,
"Which ever patient wants to see another patient from the General's
command, they are free to do so." As the Captain walked away, he
muttered under his breath, "The Admiral will hear about this."
"Admiral who?" Admiral Roberts asked as he entered the ward.
"Uh, no one sir," the Captain replied as he hurried out of
the ward.
"What was that all about?" Admiral Roberts inquired.
"Oh, nothing really. I just reminded him who was changing
his rules. I take it the Captain doesn't like anyone changing the
rules on him," General Adams said.
"Well, Ms. Mano, how are you today?" Admiral Roberts
inquired.
"Still sore sir," Yohko said. "But I would like to visit my
cousin now, if you will excuse me."
"Mind if two old men tagged along?" General Adams asked.
"Not at all. It might help cheer her up." Turning to the
nurse who remained quiet the entire time,
"Ayako Mano's room please."
"Right this way," the nurse said as she wheeled Yohko out.
"She is in room 407."
-//-
As they arrived at Ayako's room, they found her on her back
in traction. "The cut she received was deep enough to sever her
spinal cord," the nurse said softly. "Only a miracle can help her
now."
Yohko rolled herself over to the bed. Carefully, she placed
her hand on her cousin's arm. "Ayako, it is Yohko. Everything
will be fine. Trust me." Turning to the nurse, she asked, "How
long have we been here?"
General Adams answered, "The five of you have been here three
days. Your cousin spent twenty-five hours in surgery. Most likely,
in the next two or three days, she will be going in for another
operation."
"Not if I can help it," Yohko said quietly. The only one to
hear her was Ayako. A small smile flashed across her face briefly.
"I would like to visit with her alone. Could you close the drapes
and the door on your way out?"
"I am sorry but." the nurse started to say but was
interrupted by Admiral Roberts, "Sure."
Yohko waited until everyone was gone. "Ayako, I know you can
hear me," she said softly. "I am going to ask for help in your
recovery. It is the only thing I can do since I got you into this."
"Yohko," Ayako said as softly, "I do not want to remain a
cripple the rest of my life. Even death would be better than this.
Tell Azusa-ni that it isn't her fault."
"Sorry, you will have to tell her that yourself. It is bad
enough that she sitting in her bed blaming herself for leaving you.
Now, let me get this over with so that we can get on with our
lives." Picking up a stone in each hand, Yohko stood up and placed
her hands over Ayako's back. Closing her eyes, she began, "Haruka,
you saved me from dying and now I ask you to help restore life in
Ayako. She is a Devil Hunter like myself. If Madoka wasn't the
107th Devil Hunter, then my aunt would have been and Ayako would be
the 108th instead of me. She is worthy of you and I have great
pride in Ayako. Give her your aid."
In response to the request, Haruka appeared next to Yohko.
"What you ask of me has never been done before."
"Mistress, I have been your faithful servant all these years.
So has Ayako. If it weren't for Ayako, I would not be here in
person to ask this of you. She has saved my life and now this is
only way I can pay her back."
Haruka looked at both young ladies and said, "Descendents
attend me." The room was crowded with one hundred eight Devil
Hunters. Madoka looked at her granddaughter and nodded in
approval. Yohko nodded back and all eyes turned to the 1st Devil
Hunter. "Over the centuries, no one has asked for what Yohko has
asked. Never in all that time have there been five Devil Hunters
living in the same area at the same time. This is the only other
time that all of us have come together to help her out.
"The first time was when we fought the demon that killed her.
I returned her to life to end that threat. Now it seems that no
matter what, we will keep facing demons. To do that, we will need
to restore Ayako to her former self. Capable of defeating the
demons that might arise in her way." Facing Ayako for the first
time, she added, "Because of the request of your cousin, you will
have the same fate as her. If you want, you can refuse our aid.
Mamano Hunter Ayako, what is your wish?"
Tears were rolling down her cheeks as she looked about the
room. Turning her eyes to the her umpteenth grandmother, she said,
"I cannot carry on the fight you started the way I am. I do not
care if I share the same fate as Yohko. Anything is better than
living like this."
"Akayo, you must also be advised that this can kill you just
as well as cure you. Do you still wish our aid?" The 104th Devil
Hunter, Tomiko Mano, asked.
"Yes," came the reply softly.
"Then, may the powers of the Mano clan restore life and
vitality to Ayako Mano," Haruka said.
In a flash, the only remaining Devil Hunter was Yohko. "Are
you all right cousin?"
"Thank you Yohko," Ayako said as she fell asleep.
"Sleep well cousin," Yohko said as she sat down in the chair
and turned around. As she reached the door, she added, "Thank you
ancestors." One hundred seven 'you're welcomes' flooded her mind.
Opening the door, everyone that left the room was waiting for her.
"It seems that Ayako fell asleep."
"You were in there for only a minute," the nurse said as she
walked up to her.
"There wasn't much to talk about with a sleeping person. She
is resting comfortably and I don't want to disrupt her. I think I
would like to visit Azusa now."
Everyone moved across the ward to Room 411. The sign by the
door listed her as FBI along with the others. Turning to the
General, Yohko asked, "Why do you have FBI under everyone's name?"
"Well my dear," he began, "it appears that you all are members
of the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation." Yohko looked
at him with curiosity in her eyes. "I'll explain everything later.
Right now, we need you all to heal."
Azusa was hooked up to several machines. A couple of them
were beeping and one was blinking. "Your friend received a very
severe injury. She barely survived surgery," the nurse explained.
Unable to see her friend and partner like that, Yohko stood
up and took a step to the bed. Taking the stones, she placed one
in each of Azusa's hand. Softly she said, "These stones have healed
me when I needed the aid. Give Azusa the aid she needs," with that
said, the stones gave off a rich blue light that cascaded over both
girls. One of the machines started beeping at a fast pace.
Everyone looked at them in wonder, too shocked to move.
Moments later, the beeping slowed and Azusa opened her eyes.
Seeing her friend, she smiled and closed her eyes once again.
Retrieving the stones, Yohko turned around and sat back down in the
wheelchair. Without saying a word, she wheeled herself to the
lounge and looked out the window towards Balboa Park.
"I hope I did the right thing," Yohko said quietly. Tears
started rolling down her cheeks. Closing her eyes and lowering her
head to her hands, she began to cry in earnest. Seeing her friends
helpless caused more pain to her than any damage she took in all
the years of fighting. *"Kami,"* she cried out loud, *"What have I
done?"*
"You did what you thought was right," General Adams said from
the doorway. "I have seen many things in my fifty eight years, but
I have not seen anything like what I just witnessed." Moving closer
to her, he asked, "Would you like to talk about it?"
Wiping her eyes, she looked at him and answered, "Maybe later
perhaps. Right now, I would like to be alone."
The nurse walked into the lounge and stared at the person in
the wheelchair. The years of nursing never even hinted at what she
witnessed earlier. "Ms. Mano, I would like to let you know that
the cuts Ms. Kanzaki have healed. She will not have any scars
either."
"Thank you," Yohko said without turning around.
"The doctor believes she will be up and about in a couple of
days." After a pause of several seconds, the nurse added, "You
should be in bed. You need your rest."
"Is either General Adams or Admiral Roberts still here?"
Yohko asked as she turned around.
" They are visiting Colonel Thomas. I tell them that you
are asking for them?"
"That is not necessary. I'll go myself."
-//-
"What are you trying to say?" Colonel Thomas asked as Yohko
arrived at the door.
"It seems that Ms. Mano has some hidden talent," Admiral
Roberts said. "You should have seen her. A blue light covered
both Ms. Mano and Ms. Kanzaki. According to the doctor, Ms.
Kanzaki will be able to get out of intensive care today."
"We should ask her," General Adams said.
"Ask me what?" Yohko asked as she wheeled herself into the
room.
"It seems that my bosses want to know what you did to your
friend," Colonel Thomas said.
"I healed my friend. That is all you need to know. The power
I used is part of my heritage. Outside of my family, you are the
only ones that have seen that power. Even then, none of you were
supposed to see that."
"Still, we need to do some research on you and your stones,"
General Adams said.
"Not on your life, General. There are some things that are
to remain mystical. I cannot explain how I am able to call my sword
or how the stones work. All I know is that they are part of me just
like the uniform you wear is part of you," Yohko said as the tone
of her voice rose two octaves. "I came here to ask a favor of you.
There are two people in London that should be advised of our
condition. They are Inspectors Reiko Nakano and Nigel Cummins of
New Scotland Yard. Azusa and myself worked with them prior to
working with you.
"I consider them friends and they have a right to know what
happened to us. As it is, they will be able to give you some
answers to your questions. Now, if you will excuse me, I am going
to my room. This has been a very trying day." Yohko turned and
rolled away. The others looked at each other and shrugged.
-//-
Once in her room, Yohko climbed into bed and closed her eyes.
As she drifted off to sleep, Azusa's heart raced, then stopped.
Alarms went off throughout the ward. One of the night nurses called
the duty surgeon and the other ran to Azusa's room. While the nurse
was performing CPR, the Duty Surgeon showed up with a crash cart.
As soon as Azusa's heart was restarted, she was rushed to the
operating room.
Upon reopening her chest cavity, the doctor found that her
spleen and appendix ruptured. Four hours after being rushed in,
Azusa was on her way back to her room. She was no longer on the
critical but stable list. Azusa was placed on the critical and
unstable list. The Duty Surgeon placed a "No but's" on visitors.
As the nurse was hanging a new IV bottle up, more equipment was
brought into the room. An oxygen tent was also added.
-//-
Yohko made her rounds to everyone. As she approached Azusa's
room, she noticed the sign hanging on her door. "Absolutely No
Visitors". Turning to the nurse's stand, she inquired on her
friend. "What is wrong with Azusa Kanzaki?"
The day nurse looked up at Yohko and shook her head. "I am
sorry, Yohko. Truly, truly sorry." The voice was filled with
sorrow and compassion.
Dread filled her heart as she walked back to Azusa's room.
Looking through the window, she grasped a stone in each hand.
_Kami,_ Yohko prayed, _Azusa does not deserve this. She is strong,
vibrant and full of life. She has to live._
Turning to Azusa, she continued, _You have to fight this
Azusa. Fight like you never fought before. Fight for Ayako.
Fight for Azusa-ni. Fight for Haruka. Fight for everything you
hold dear.
_Fight like the stubborn stepchild you are. I know you want
to fight, so dammit fight. I need you. Ayako needs you. Azusa-ni
needs you. Haruka needs you. The world needs you. Azusa, I love
you. After all these years, I consider you more than just a friend.
You are more like a sister than just a friend.
_There are so many things that you wanted to see and do. How
in the hell are you able to do all those things if you up and die
on me? Are you calling it quits? I never figured you to take the
easy way out of anything. At least you could have the decency to
say sayonara before leaving. It seems that you do not have any
respect for even that. Some friend you are turning out to be._
As she gripped the stones tighter, her frustration grew and
she shifted into her winter outfit without realizing she changed.
All the pain and injuries disappeared with the appearance of the
dress. Tears rolled down her cheeks as she watched her best friend
and partner for the last four years.
Memories flooded her mind as she stood there crying.
Memories of battles and gatherings of family and friends. Memories
of bickering and heated arguments. Memories of laughter and joy.
Dammit Azusa, don't do this to me, she said as she walked away. As
Yohko walked into the lounge, unclenched her fists and a mixture of
blood and powder drifted to the floor.
No one noticed the bright blue flicker of light cover Azusa
from head to toe. Just as quickly, the light dissipated and alarms
went off. Seconds later, she heard "Doctor Williams to Ward four
stat. Doctor Williams to Ward four stat," over the PA speakers.
-//-
Azusa opened her eyes and felt like a horse that was ridden
hard and put away wet. Her chest was sore and she felt like a pin-
cushion. In the last four years, she was stabbed, cut, and sliced
but nothing before felt like what she was feeling. She did not
understand what happened to her. The last thing she remembered was
looking at a crying Yohko. Something told her to move.
-//-
Turning around, she walked to the nurse's station. Just as
she was about to inquire, a young looking doctor in a while lab
coat came running in. His light brown hair was in disarray. Yohko
could tell that he was taking a nap due to pillow marks on his left
cheek and his brown eyes were red.
"What is the problem," Doctor Williams asked as he tried to
catch his breath.
"Room 411. You better take a look."
As the doctor opened the door, he was met with a flying water
bottle. Azusa was kneeling on her bed and calling out in broken
English, *"Where Yohko?"*
"Miss, you should be lying down," Doctor Williams said as he
approached the patient.
*"NO!"* Azusa screamed. *"Where Yohko!"* A cup of water
caught the unsuspecting doctor in the face. *"Yohko here now,"* she
demanded.
Before the doctor could say a word, Yohko entered and asked in
Japanese, "What is the problem Azusa?"
*"You know damn well what is the matter. What did you do?"*
"There is no reason to scream Azusa. I did what I had to do.
Besides, you would have done the same for me."
Lowering her voice, Azusa stated flatly, "Are you so sure
about that?"
"Yes Azusa I am sure, Yohko said as she sat next to her
friend. "You are my best friend. Besides, I care about you. Now
let the good doctor take a look at you and do not throw anything at
him, ok?"
"Hai."
Facing the doctor, Yohko said, "She is all yours. But, be
careful." A reluctant nod was given in return. Turning to Azusa
as she walked out of the room. "Be nice."
Libby, Azusa-ni and Ayako met Yohko as she walked out of the
room. "What was that all about," Ayako asked.
"Well, Azusa is mad at me because I would not let her die. I
broke both stones restoring her."
"I never heard her yell before," Azusa-ni said quietly.
"Remind me not to get her angry."
"Has anyone seen Chi-chan lately?" Yohko asked to change the
subject.
Libby answered, "She is still at the base. She is giving
training. It appears that your friend is more than computer
literate. While showing a select few, she managed to tap into the
master computer without using any of the known ways in."
"That is Chi-chan for you," Yohko said with a chuckle.
Twenty minutes later, the doctor joined the group. "I do not
know what you did, but your friend will be ready to leave the
hospital tomorrow." Looking at each and every one, he added, "In
fact, you all are ready to leave." Shaking his head, he turned and
walked away. "What a strange group of patients," he added to no
one in particular.
Epilogue: Homeward Bound
At eleven, Admiral Roberts and General Adams arrived. "I
see that we are all ready to leave," Admiral Roberts said as the
recently released patients met them. "And I heard some very
strange things happening in that ward too," he added as he looked
at Yohko.
"Doesn't matter," General Adams interjected. "What matters
is that now we can all go back for the final phase of this mission."
Looking at them, he added, "That is if you are planning on staying
here."
Two and a half hours later, the group arrived at the base.
The staff met them and Chi. Everyone was glad to see that they
were all right. Worried looks turned to smiles as a few tears
fell from grateful eyes. Most of the tears were from the Devil
Hunters as hugs were given freely.
"Well I hate to interrupt," General Adams said, "but there
is some unfinished business to be taken care of. So if you will
follow me to the conference room, we can get this started."
"A few days ago I was asked a question and I replied that I
would explain everything," General Adams said to the entire group.
"Those of you at the hospital probably noticed that under every-
one's name, were the Letters F, B and I. After Washington was
advised of the situation here and the subsequent hiring five
foreign nationals to solve a problem that the United States was
unable to do, I was instructed that the United States could not
formally thank those five. Instead, I was instructed to give as
thanks for a job well done the only thing viable. Tokyo has been
advised in advance.
"So with that said, I now present our new members, Yohko Mano,
Ayako Mano, Azusa Kanzaki, Chikago Okagawa and Azusa Nibunno. From
this day forward, the five of you are now members of the Federal
Bureau of Investigation. There is a possibility that you might be
called in on a case that fits your area of expertise."
After handing out their Field Agent badges and certificates,
he added, "While you were all recuperating, Agent Okagawa briefed us
on your background." Yohko looked at Chi with fury filled eyes.
General Adams didn't miss the look. "Rest assured, no secrets
passed in either direction. I felt that discretion was in order."
"Now what?" Azusa-ni asked quietly.
"There are a couple of options," Admiral Roberts began.
"The first is for you to return to Minnesota for a well deserved
vacation. The other option is for you to return home. The choice
is yours."
*"School,"* Yohko called out. "I probably have been dropped."
"No you haven't," General Adams said. "In fact, the Prime
Minister had a hand in this too. Since you are out of the country
on behalf of your government, the schools were obliged to keep you
enrolled. The only drawback is that you will have to repeat this
school year again."
The five young ladies chose to return home.
Author's Notes
A hearty thanks for the support goes out to my editors Rob
Barba and Dave Clare. Thanks also to the Studio YOGIPIGS members:
Sam, Lany, Libby, Doug and Amy. Without them, I wouldn't have had
a cast. Special appreciation to Libby Thomas, thank you Libby for
being there.