Episode 23 - The Mysterious Christmas Gift

[Cut to the Akihabara* district. Built from the spoils of its post-war black market, the district is packed with holiday shoppers as stores promote "holiday-specials". On a long aisle in the Yamagiwa store, Yoko test-taps an self-proclaimed ergonomic keyboard as Saito examines a NEC-PC.]

*Area of Tokyo known for selling electronic goods.

Store Clerk:

[Noting that Saito is examining an attached peripheral.] Can I help you find something?

Saito:

Ah...no. I'm looking for something for someone else. [Sees some familiar faces outside the store window.] Gotta go!

Store Clerk:

[Bows as Saito leaves.] Please come again!

[Yoko and Saito walk out into the narrow public walkway between stores. After some squeezing between crowds, Kasamatsu and Yuko manage to meet up with them and the foursome enter Hirose Musen to escape the mobs.]

Kasamatsu:

So tell me again why we're here?

Yuko:

[Slightly annoyed.] I already told you; Yoko thinks we should get a computer for school and you volunteered to help us find one.

Kasamatsu:

[Grudgingly.] You mean I was "volunteered".

Yoko:

[Insinuatingly.] You *could* pay the "hush-money".

Kasamatsu:

[Turns nose up.] No thanks! I need the money for gift-buying. [Grumbling to himself.] How was I supposed to know the Dean would be at the club...

Saito:

[To Yoko as he goes through his written list of available computer models.] What was it again you two specifically plan on using it for?

Yoko:

[A little off-guard.] Ah?! You know, schoolwork. Writing and stuff like that. A friend of mine told me to get the fastest model we could.

Saito:

[Casually.] Hmm...at least you're getting good advice from someone. You should get something like...[Points at a large, heavy-looking tower case.] this! The software on it will do everything you need and Teruhiko-kun says this company's computer case is one of the most durable in the industry.

Kasamatsu:

[Sarcastically to Saito.] That's so she won't break it. [Gets into a badly-imitated martial arts stance and begins to make weak-looking punching motions.] Probably'll use it for target practice.

Yoko:

[With contempt.] Hrumph!

Yuko:

[Looks with concern at the six-digit price tag.] But, do we really need all these features? Okaasan might not be willing to spend that much.

Saito:

Of course you'll need them! If it's not top-of-the-line, it's not worth using!

Yoko:

[Mostly to herself.] Hmm...Baka-chan said something like that. [Shrugs.] Probably a computer geek sorta thing to say. [To Yuko.] Let's take this one. Okaasan will understand. [Both go to the dealer to sign a purchase order.]

Kasamatsu:

[After the twins are out of hearing range.] Say, speaking of computer girls, whatever happened to your girl "Chun- Li"? You said you two were going to meet at the ball game last month.

Saito:

I tried. But the team she told me she was going to be playing with cancelled out. The registration table said our team got their time slot.

Kasamatsu:

[Chuckles.] Same old luck on girls eh? Just can't shake the old high-school rep eh?

Saito:

[Embarrassed.] B-be quiet.

Kasamatsu:

By the way, did you ever consider what you're going to tell Yuko-san about this "other girl"?

Saito:

N-no... I was going to ask Kasuga-san for some advice on that. You know, with a girlfriend like Ayukawa-san, I guess he never had to chose between two girls befo--

[Just then, the group of four are interrupted by Kasuga. They watch with surprise as he squeezes his way to familiar faces. He has a fatigued expression as he tries to catch his breath.]

Saito:

Oi, oi! Christmas shopping getting too rough on yo--?

Kasuga:

[Almost frantically.] The date! What's the date?!

Saito:

[A little taken aback by his abruptness.] Ahh...ahh...it's the twenty-third of December.

Kasuga:

What year?!?

Saito:

N-nineteen eighty-eight.

Kasuga:

[Almost to himself.] Nineteen eighty-eight? [Thinks for a moment.] I was... [Shows sudden understanding.] I gotta go! Ja! [Heads back towards the train station.]

Kasamatsu:

What's his problem?

Yoko:

You can never tell with him. He pops up in the strangest of places.

[Cut to the boarding house. The walls now have a newer appearance from a recent paint job only a couple of months ago. Above the main entrance, the sign "Seishun-kan" hangs proudly along with a notch in its side to commemorate the victory.]

Kasuga Narration:

It was the first Christmas I spent away from home. Even though I was planning to return home next week to celebrate Shogatsu* with my family, there was still a strange feeling of detachment. However, it was comforting to do some of the same familiar things around this time as in previous years...

*New Years

[Cut to Room No. 5. Kasuga and Katsu are looking over a stack of mailed catalogs piled on the floor as two cups of hot ramen with chopsticks sit half-eaten on the table.]

Kasuga:

[Crosses out an entry on a sheet of paper as he looks forlornly at a recent bank statement.] Can't afford that...

Katsu:

[As he slurps some noodles.] Haven't you decided yet? You've been looking at catalogs for over an hour.

Kasuga:

[With disappointment.] No. It's like this every year. I never know what to get. What did you decide?

Katsu:

There are a couple of things I'm going to look at. I'm just trying to think of how and when to present it.

[Just then, there's a knock on the door.]

[Kasuga gets up and opens it. The only thing to greet him is a gift-wrapped box sitting on the floor with a card.]

Katsu:

[Seeing the box.] Who's it from?

[As he opens the box, Kasuga glances at the hand-written note.]

Kasuga:

[Reading the note.] Kasuga-san, I want to apologize again for the most unfortunate incident that occurred a few months ago. While I was thinking of your best future interests, I cannot help but feel partially responsible for the rift that formed between you and Ayukawa-san, albeit even temporarily.

To avoid such miscommunication in the future, I hope you will accept this gift. With luck, I hope we never find ourselves at odds again.

Again, my sincere apologies.

Tanaka.

Katsu:

What is it?

Kasuga:

[Opens the box to reveal a new telephone answering machine.] Tanaka-san says he's sorry about what happened a few months ago. [Pointing to the machine.] I guess it's a present. [Stands up.] How about we go out instead? I'm not getting any ideas from these catalogs.

Katsu:

[Frowns a little as he stares at the answering machine.] Hmm...

[Kasuga and Katsu leave the room. As Kasuga locks the door, Sakurai talks with Egami downstairs.]

Sakurai:

You're really going to celebrate Christmas this year? Just like they do in London?

Egami:

Of course we will! [Proudly.] We're even going to get a Christmas tree to celebrate!

Sakurai:

[Turns to Kasuga and Katsu as they come down the stairs.] Kasuga! Ooya-san says he's going to get a real Christmas tree this year!

Egami:

[Nods proudly.] That's right! We're going to make you feel right at home! [Gestures towards Kasuga and Katsu.] The three of you will personally pick out the tree!

Kasuga:

Ahh...un. [Nods.] We'll get it on our way back from shopping.

Katsu:

Let's go!

Egami:

[Discretely to Kasuga as he follows Katsu and Sakurai.] Make sure to get a reusable one.

Kasuga:

[Nods with understanding.] Un...

[Egami and Fujimoto watch as Kasuga, Katsu and Sakurai disappear around the street corner. Cold wind blows across the neighborhood as low-hanging clouds threaten overhead.]

Fujimoto:

Do you think it'll snow?

Egami:

[Gruffly.] Tabun*.

*Perhaps

Fujimoto:

What do you think about when you see the snow?

Egami:

[Grumps.] About all the work it's going to take to keep the walkway clear. [Absent-mindedly.] What about you?

Fujimoto:

Ryo...proposed to me the first...and last time we went together for yukimi*.

[Writer's note: *Snow viewing: The custom of gathering to partake of food and sake while viewing a snow-covered landscape. Records of such events appear in chronicles of the Nara period (710-794). In the Heian period (794-1185), aristocrats held gatherings or accompanied imperial excursions to view the snow. By the Edo period (1600-1868), the custom had spread to the common people.]

Egami:

[Stops short.] Ah...ahh...gomen*. [Decides to go back inside to the relative warmth of the house.]

*Sorry

Fujimoto:

[Follows Egami inside.] Don't worry about it. What I meant was, I'm going to try and get my life back on track. I've mourned long enough...and Ryo probably wouldn't have wanted me to spend the rest of my life reliving the past.

Egami:

[Looks more positive but slightly surprised.] Oh! That! Yes! [Enters his room and pours both of them a cup of hot tea from a heated kettle.] I was beginning to wonder sometimes. [Nods with more confidence.] I know, more than anyone else, that Ryo-kun would have wanted it that way. Anything in particular?

Fujimoto:

One of Ryo's friends from his old company was talking to me last month, about a job with the company he's working for now. I think I'm going to take him up on his --

[Just then, Fujimoto is interrupted as the door bursts open and Kasuga looks inside with some agitation.]

Kasuga:

[Breathless from running.] Ano...!

Egami:

[Startled by the sudden entrance.] What's going on?! Don't you ever knock?!?

Fujimoto:

[With concern.] Did you forget something?

Kasuga:

[Thinks about Fujimoto's comment briefly.] Shimatta*...I'm already too late! [Visibly calms down.] OK, I guess I'll try Seibu next. Ooya-san! [Reaches for Egami's oversized hooded winter coat.] I need to borrow this! It's important! [As he leaves.] I'll see you later! [To himself.] Much later...

*Oh shoot

Egami:

[Stunned into inaction.] O-OI! [He watches Kasuga leave and hears his footsteps leaving the house. As Kasuga puts the coat on while running, he shouts out the window.] You'd better bring that back or I'll add the cost to your rent! [Irritated tone as he closes the window.] I swear you never know what's going through Kasuga-san's head!

Fujimoto:

[Nods and smiles.] He's a little unusual, but I've never doubted his sincerity. I'm sure he had good reasons. [Smile slips a bit into a questioning expression.] Chotto matte*...didn't he take his coat with him?

*Just a minute

[Cut to the Butsumetsu Music Building. In one of the practice rooms, Ayukawa packs away her saxophone as the almost sound-proof room echoes with rehearsal versions of "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" being played by the concert band.]

Ayukawa:

So what are you going to do for Christmas?

Kimura:

Usually okaasan and otoosan buy me another kawaii stuffed animal. But this year, I'm hoping I can do something different.

Ayukawa:

Kasuga and I... [Thinks back to the "pairs-only" Christmas party four years ago.] try to do something together. I'm sure we'll all be getting together for a party somewhere.

Kimura:

Un! This year, I...[Eyes cloud over with imaginary visions as she puts her hands on her cheeks to hide the blush.] I want to meet my "special someone"! In the stories, a handsome man always brings the girl a special present, then...[Eyes close as she envisions being kissed on the lips.] Kyaaa...!

Ayukawa:

Ahh...[Unsure how to picture Kimura's scenario, but decides to go along.] un. I'm sure there'll be someone at the party who has you on his mind.

[Cut to the Seibu depaato. Featuring twelve floors, dozens of restaurants, and a shopping inventory ranging from clothing to art galleries, it is the second-largest department store in the world. Like all the other major stores throughout Japan, the building is filled with people taking advantage of the commercially-declared holiday.]

Katsu:

<Ah-choo!>

Sakurai:

[A little irritatedly.] What do you mean we should get this tree? It's made out of aluminum!

Kasuga:

Well, Ooya-san thought...

Sakurai:

Daijoubu*! He'll understand; no one celebrates Christmas with a fake tree!

*Don't worry

Katsu:

Ooya-san won't be happy; he'll probably toss your furniture out in the snow!

Sakurai:

[Waves off nonchalantly.] Heiki, heiki*. I'll handle Ooya-san. Anyway, didn't you two have gifts to buy?

*No sweat

Kasuga:

[Decides to let the matter drop.] Well, OK. [Leafs through some sweaters, scarves, and other accessories.] Che...!*

*Mild Japanese expression of disappointment/irritation

Katsu:

[Looks at a glass display case of scarves.] How much are these?

Sales representative:

[Pulls out a dark-blue Celine scarf.] Kore desu ka*? Y32,000, but right now they're on special for only Y28,000!

*This

Katsu:

[Shakes his head.] Iie*! This is for...well, her face is sort of cuter.

*No

Sales representative:

[Eyes light up with understanding.] Ah! [Reaches for and holds up a colorful Hermes scarf.] O-kyaku- sama*, perhaps this will be better? [Holds it close to her face.] Picture your girlfriend's happy face when she sees this for Christmas...?

*Honored customer

Katsu:

Hmm...

[Fade to imagination.]

Katsu:

[Confidently presents a wrapped box to Kimura.] Hai!

Kimura:

[As the box unwraps by itself.] Ahh! Kirei*! Ritsu- san, ureshi**!

*Pretty
**I'm so happy

[Fade back to reality.]

Katsu:

[Nods.] Un...it'll be perfect.

Sales representative:

I'll have it wrapped for you!

Kasuga:

[Looking over Katsu's shoulder.] I'm glad you found something so quick.

Katsu:

[As he accepts the wrapped package.] Since when did you become so indecisive?

Kasuga:

Ah! I mean...[To himself.] Some things never change! [Looks at his watch.] It's almost time to get back for the party and I still haven't found something. It'll look bad if I don't give Ayukawa a present. Good thing I put that answering machine in. [Picks up a small boxed table ornament.] I guess I'll have to get Tanaka-san something to show my appreciation. At least I won't miss any calls while I'm out shopping.

[Cut to the boarding house. In Room No. 4, the sunlight begins to fade behind half-closed Venetian blinds, taking what little light there is in the room with it. A thin trail of smoke rises from a cigarette being held just over an ashtray as an exposed razor blade turns over slowly with deliberate motion across Tanaka's other hand. As he inhales from the cigarette once more, a tape machine with two wires placed discretely in the corner of the room silently turns on.]

Tape recorder speaker:

<Click!>...<Beep!>... Oniichan, it's Manami! When did you get one of these? Anyway, otoosan wants to know when you'll be coming so we can clear the stuff out of your room. Call...Kyaaa...! Jingoro..! [Interrupts as the sounds of falling dishware and a whining Jingoro can be heard over the speaker.] Mou...I hate talking into these things...! <Click!>

Tanaka:

[Coldly as he extinguishes his cigarette.] Merry Christmas...Kasuga-san...

[COMMERCIAL BREAK.]

TV Announcer:

Introducing the revolutionary operating system for the next generation of labors! From Microsoft, the company who brought you Excel 13, the world's first 5 gigabyte spreadsheet program comes Windows 2000! Fully tested by expert engineers...

Sakaki:

But I told you I don't know anything about software!

TV Announcer:

Field tested by the finest labor pilots...

Ohta:

[In labor, firing his fully automatic 120mm assault rifle]: DIE DIE DIE DIE! Haha, this gun you gave me is great! Eliminated all 16 targets in within 5 seconds...I LOVE WINDOWS 2000!

TV Announcer:

Windows 2000 will vastly speed up processing capability and production in your favorite labor! Comes with new versions of Solitaire and Minesweeper, for a limited time only. Win-

*click* [TV off.]

Shinobu:

Where are you going?

Goto:

[Turns.] To make a few phone calls. Ever since that Gates fellow took over Shinohara Industries, there's been movement in the shadows.

Shinobu:

[Sighs.] Looks like Matsui-san's been busy. [To herself.] Here we go again...

*FLASH LOGO*

Announcer:

See "Patlabor Movie 3: Hell's Gates"! In theatres now.

[END COMMERCIAL BREAK.]

[Cut to Mason financial corporation. Although some of the superficial trappings of the holidays are present, the pulse of business doesn't skip a beat as money and people flow in and out of the glass and steel tower. Conversations are held in small groups as managers confer on various matters ranging from business to personal.]

Manager 1:

No you may not have time off! You spend too much time away from the office as it is!

Umao:

[Bows sheepishly.] Aa, ahh...

Ikemoto:

[To herself as she looks irritatedly at the phone.] What do you mean he's not in?!? [More politely as she resumes her conversation.] <<Then when will Mr. Jamerson be available to discuss the...>> [Frowns as she listens to the reply.] <<Of course I understand. Perhaps next week.>> [With an annoyed tone mostly to herself as she hangs up.] Kuso...!*

*<Netiquette violator>

Amano:

[Coldly.] Having problems with your gaijin* clients?

*foreign

Ikemoto:

Don't you have something else to do? You certainly wouldn't know how to handle them.

Amano:

Ah sou! Wasn't it you that boasted you knew their culture? I wonder how is it you didn't take into account the fact that they don't get any work done this time of year.

Ikemoto:

[Coldly.] Why don't you go back to your desk before I tell your wife why it takes you three hours to make four stops on the Chuo? I'm sure that would make an entertaining Christmas for your family.

Amano:

[Stiffens.] At least I have someone to go home to, unlike a cold, friendless person such as yourself.

[Fade to the past...]

Chibi Sachiko:

[Sadly.] But why...?

Unseen adult figure:

[Sighs.] I told you already; your father's work has to change locations.

Chibi Sachiko:

[Protests.] But...but tomorrow's Christmas Eve! I wanted to give a friend a Christmas gift!

Unseen adult figure:

[A little hurried while making logistical arrangements.] Don't worry so much; you'll make new friends where we're going.

Chibi Sachiko:

[Looks down.] But you said that last time...

Unseen adult figure:

[Irritated.] Don't be so immature! Your father's work is very important! [More patiently.] I know Christmas is important to you; we'll have our very own Christmas with the family. Next year, I promise you'll meet new friends and you'll all give presents to one another.

Chibi Sachiko:

[Meekly.] Hai.

[Fade back to the present...]

Amano:

[Turns to leave.] I'll bet you've never celebrated Christmas.

[Outside the Seibu depaato, Katsu and Sakurai can be seen struggling with a large Christmas tree while Kasuga is shaking his head.]

Kasuga:

Ooya-san said to get a tree that can be reused. I don't think...[Gestures at the beautiful green fir tree.]...that this is exactly what he had in mind.

Sakurai:

[Exasperated.] But we can't celebrate Christmas like they do in London without a real tree. He said that's what he wanted to do, right?

Katsu:

Err...yeah, but just in case, you remind him about that.

Kasuga:

Well, I want to look at one more store for something, so you two go ahead and take the tree back. If the tree isn't there for the party, Ooya-san will probably give us the pleasure of picking our furniture up off the lawn for Christmas.

Katsu:

[Fearfully.] Hai.

Sakurai:

[Shrugs off Kasuga's warning.] I'm sure I'll be able to explain everything to him; Ooya-san likes me. [Smiles.]

[As Katsu and Sakurai leave, Kasuga walks down the crowded sidewalk, looking at the various displays in the windows of the stores.]

Akane:

Kyosuke! Kyosuke! [Akane comes running up to Kasuga.] There you are. Egami-san said you were out shopping for a Christmas tree or something. [Looks around.] Where is it? You better get it soon, cause he was muttering something about your furniture as I was leaving...

Kasuga:

Why me? Katsu and Sakurai are taking the tree back. [Smiles cautiously.] You were looking for me? [To himself.] I wonder what she wants this time. [Panics.] Maybe she wants to help me pick out another gift. [Smiles as he remembers Kimura's birthday party and everyone's shocked reaction to his gift and begins to laugh.]

Akane:

[Sits down beside Kasuga.] What's so funny?

Kasuga:

[Laughing.] Oh nothing.

Akane:

[Annoyed.] What are you laughing at?

Kasuga:

[Hand behind head.] Err, you actually.

Akane:

[Starting to get angry.] Look Kyosuke, I've still not gotten over you dragging me into that baseball game, although it was a lot of fun, particularly when I got to fool the other team with my amazing abilities. [Shimmers into Matsuda Seiko*.] Ne**?

*Japanese idol singer, popular at this time. Appeared in KOC #22
**In this case, right?

Kasuga:

[Rolls his eyes.] Not again...Akane, you know you shouldn't rely on your power to get by. I mean, after all, I pitched the entire final game without my power.

Akane:

[Wryly.] You sure did; that's why we lost by, how many runs was that again?

Kasuga:

[Embarrassed.] That's not important. And besides, half the team couldn't play then anyway. [Tries to change the subject.] Now, why were you looking for me?

Akane:

[Smiles.] I'll let you off this time. [Becomes serious.] How're things going with you these days? Everything all right with you and Madoka-san? Things did seem a bit cold in the dugout when we played the team from Daidai-sou.

Kasuga:

[Unsure of himself.] Well, I think so. She wants me to be me, nothing else. You know, no frills, no power, just plain old me. [Reflectively.] Will she like someone so normal?

Akane:

[Sternly.] Cut it out Kyosuke. You love Madoka-san right?

Kasuga:

Hai.

Akane:

And she loves you?

Kasuga:

[Resolutely.] Hai.

Akane:

Trust that for once then, OK?

Kasuga:

[Smiles.] Words of wisdom from you Akane? What's gotten into you these days?

Akane:

[Confidently.] I've decided on a major: Dramatic and Theatrical Arts.

Kasuga:

[Surprised.] After just one course?

Akane:

Mmm...I've been practicing every day for the upcoming departmental auditions. Remember when you saw me in that tattered dress? Our drama department is putting on "Les Gens Abattu"* after the winter break. I'm auditioning for one of the lead roles, Iponine.

*French; literally, "The People Depressed" or "The Sad Ones."

Kasuga:

So you're in the department if you get the part?

Akane:

[Sighs.] Getting the part would be great, but as long as I do well, and I pass the written exam, I'm in. Ah, that brings me to what I wanted to tell you. Afterwards, I'll be going back to Yokohama for the holiday to help Dad with the temple's Shogatsu preparations. I don't think we'll be able to make the trip to see you over the break, so don't do anything ecchi* with Madoka-san while I'm gone!

*Perverted

Kasuga:

Oi!

Akane:

And auditions are coming up too. Who knows? [Winks.] You may even be able to help me.

Kasuga:

[Hesitant.] Uh, I don't know; we'll have to see...Oh, before I forget, will you be coming by tonight for the party?

Akane:

Egami-san mentioned it to me. When is it supposed to start?

Kasuga:

[Looks at his watch.] Pretty soon actually.

Akane:

[Sighs.] It won't kill me to take a little time off from practicing I guess. Sure, I'd like to go. Can we swing by my place? I need to pick up some things.

Kasuga:

[Begins to sweat as he remembers he still hasn't found a present for Ayukawa.] I need to pick up some stuff for the tree to decorate it with. Since you said Ooya-san was talking about throwing out my furniture yet again, I'd better get some nice ornaments.

Akane:

[Sighs.] Oh Kyosuke, you sure live life on the edge don't you? [Laughs.] I'll see you at the party. Ja ne!

[Cut to Ayukawa's apartment. Unlike most apartments in the region, there are a few Christmas decorations present in the room, most notably a single set of blinking lights on a small one-foot tall tree.]

Kimura:

[Staring at the tree.] Waah...Kirei! But I've never seen a tree in someone's own apartment.

Ayukawa:

[As she finishes wrapping the last of a few boxes to be taken to the party.] Well, Ikemoto-san spent several years in America. Sometimes, it seems she doesn't have many happy times, but I think this is one of them. Here. [Picks up a picture frame and hands it to Kimura.]

Kimura:

[Looks at a picture with a ten-year old Ikemoto.] Hmm...she looks a little lonely.

[Just then, Ikemoto returns from work.]

Ayukawa:

[Surprised.] Ikemoto-san! You're early!

Ikemoto:

[Nods with a subdued expression.] U-un... [After a long pause, she pulls out a small wrapped box.] Ayukawa-chan, this is for you.

Ayukawa:

[Surprised expression.] Ahh...un. [To herself.] Is she serious? [Embarrassed expression.] Ah...I don't have anything ri--

Ikemoto:

[Presents the gift again.] I-it's all right. It...would mean a lot to me...to give a Christmas present to a friend.

[Cut to the Seibu jewelry department. Kasuga looks over each ring, bracelet and necklace in the case, but doesn't seem to have much success.]

Sales representative:

O-kyaku-san, may I help you with something?

Kasuga:

[Stops looking through a display case when he sees the Y58,000 and higher price tags.] I-ie. [Turns to leave.]

Store attendants:

[With practiced unison.] Please come again!

Kasuga Narration:

I remember thinking that this was the first time I had to spend Christmas with Ayukawa alone. I was hoping earlier that day for a sudden inspiration while I was out at the stores, but...

Figure in the shadows:

Kyo...Kasuga-san.

Kasuga:

Who...?

[Cut to the Chez Kooun. Outside, a sign marked "Closed for private party" hangs on the glass door. Fujimoto attends to the buffet, which has been arranged along one wall. In the corner on the opposite wall, Sakurai's live tree stands, very well- decorated. The twins, followed by Saito and Kasamatsu, enter through the archway adjoining the main hall.]

Egami:

[Dressed in a loose-fitting Santa Claus suit.] What do you mean they only had real trees?! I told you guys to get a reusable one!

Sakurai:

[Confidently.] What can I say? These days, the Christmas rush is on and the stores just don't carry enough.

Egami:

[Suspiciously.] When I was in town last week, they had plenty of aluminum ones!

Sakurai:

[Smiles confidently as he manages to get to the main hall.] Besides, now isn't exactly the time; you're ruining the mood!

Egami:

[Clears his throat, then to the crowd.] HO! HO! HO! [Whispers back to Sakurai under his breath.] "Santa" will be leaving you a black lump of coal in *your* stocking!

Sakurai:

...

Yuko:

[Amazed.] Wow, somebody did a great job with the tree!

Saito:

[Under his breath.] We better hope those ancient strings of lights don't burn the place down. Those things look like they pre-date the war.

Fujimoto:

Hai, Sakurai-san is quite fond of Western traditions. [She gestures toward the top of the archway.] He even decided to hang some mistletoe.

Yoko:

[Casting a suspicious glance directly upward.] Mistletoe? What's that?

Fujimoto:

[Smiling.] According to tradition, whoever stands under the mistletoe is waiting to be kissed.

Yoko:

[Whirls, and stabs a finger into Kasamatsu's chest before he can move.] Try it, and you'll be able to string your *teeth* on the tree.

Kasamatsu:

[Cheerfully.] Wouldn't dream of it.

Eiji:

Ne, okaasan*, can we eat yet?

*Mother

Fujimoto:

[Understanding tone.] Not yet, wait until everyone else gets here. Could you help me finish with the buffet and decorations in here?

Yoko, Yuko, Saito, Kasamatsu: [In unison.] Hai!

Egami:

[Sits down and pulls Eiji onto his lap.] Come sit on Santa's lap while we're waiting for them to set up!

Eiji:

[Deadpan.] Santa...? So are you going to give me a gift or something?

Egami:

[Attempted joviality.] Santa knows all about good girls and boys!

Eiji:

[Impatiently.] Don't you think you're a little too short to be playing this role?

Egami:

[Insinuatingly.] "Santa" also knows about whose house you were playing at when you told Mariko you were studying at the elementary school library!

Eiji:

[Seizes up, sweats, then nods.] Ah...un! [Grins fearfully.] Santa!

[Cut back to the alleyway just outside Seibu. The neon lights flood the streets and the air begins to chill. Kasuga stares in stunned amazement with his breath forming a fog between him and the man standing in the shadows. A heavy hooded coat hides the man's face and identity.]

Kasuga:

Wh-who are you?

Figure in the shadows:

Never mind that now. You're still looking for a gift...for someone special, right?

Kasuga:

[Nods with curiosity.] Ah, hai.

Figure in the shadows:

I have just the thing. [Reaches into a pouch and pulls out a jewelry carrying case.] It's an old family heirloom. Traditionally, you're supposed to give it to the person you love most in the whole world. I...I've recently lost the person I...would have given it to. You--I mean, your family, did me a favor a few years...ago.

Kasuga:

A favor? I don't remember any favors.

Figure in the shadows:

D-don't worry about it. You haven't, I mean, you weren't there. It was something, your grandfather did. I'm...just returning the favor, he did... for my mother.

Kasuga:

[Surprised by the man's determination, but accepts nonetheless.] Un. A-arigatou.

Figure in the shadows:

[With concern to himself as he watches Kasuga leave.] It happened exactly as I remember it. Kyosuke...for both our sakes, please make sure you give it to her!

[As Kasuga leaves the alley and rejoins the crowds, curiosity gains the better of him.]

Kasuga:

[To himself as he opens the case.] I wonder what he meant by "the person you love most in the whole world"? How could he possibl...[Trails off as he reads the inscribed name on the pendant.] Masaka*... [Turns around quickly.] Who...?! [Trails off as he sees the empty alley.]

*Impossible

[As drinks flow and the party chatter rises in volume, Kasamatsu sidles over to one side of the room, standing next to Kimura and Ayukawa, who look up at the spectacularly decorated tree in wonder.]

Kasamatsu:

They did a good job, didn't they?

Kimura:

Ara, Kasamatsu-kun! Un, the lights are really pretty. Everything looks so beautiful this time of year.

Kasamatsu:

Un...

[They watch the flashing lights for a bit, then...]

Kimura:

So did it work out with that girl from your circuits class...Sayuki-san?

Kasamatsu:

Mm? No...as it turns out, she's already dating someone. She did say I was a nice guy, though. [Smiles half- heartedly.] Actually, I wanted to thank you for your advice.

Kimura:

But it didn't work for you...!

Kasamatsu:

On the contrary, I think it did pretty well. Anyway... [Rummages in his backpack, then pulls out a wrapped gift.] Merry Christmas!

Kimura:

[Eyes widening.] You really didn't have to--!

Kasamatsu:

It was nothing...besides, you already mentioned you wanted it. [As she opens the package.]

Kimura:

[Hugging her new stuffed animal.] Arigatou*, Kasamatsu- kun!

*Thank you

Kasamatsu:

Dou itashimashite*. [Heads back to the party.]

*You're welcome

Ayukawa:

[Incredulously.] You were giving him dating advice?

Kimura:

Un! I read about it in shoujo manga! The boyfriend is supposed to...[Closes eyes and mimics a kissing motion.]

Ayukawa:

[To herself as she looks at the clock.] Speaking of boyfriends, where's Kasuga-kun?

[Kasuga runs up just outside Chez Kooun with the boxed gift in his hand. He takes a moment to catch his breath and compose himself. Behind him, Katsu comes out of the crowds.]

Katsu:

So did you ever find a gift?

Kasuga:

Ah, hai. [Shows Katsu the box.] I...found something unusual from a guy selling things on the streets.

Katsu:

Kind of cold for a street vendor. He must have been desperate.

Kasuga:

What took you so long? You were finished buying a couple hours before me.

Katsu:

I had to go back to the house to wrap it. Oh, Ooya-san said if you don't buy him a new coat, he's going to have your room emptied.

Kasuga:

[Nervously.] Ahh...[To himself.] Why do I have to buy *him* a new coat?

[They both go inside and join the party. Kasuga makes his way to Ayukawa and motions for her to join him outside. Meanwhile, Katsu spots Kimura chatting with Akane next to the buffet. He tries to get her attention, but fails. Kasamatsu spots him, and looks between Katsu and Kimura. Kasamatsu points at Kimura with a questioning look on his face, and walks over to her as Katsu nods at him.]

Katsu:

[To himself, watching as Kasamatsu takes Kimura's elbow and whispers something to her.] Arigatou, Kasamatsu-san.

[Kimura turns, and notices Katsu standing outside the archway. She smiles happily, and starts walking over to him.]

[Nearby, Sakurai casts a melancholy stare into his drink.]

Sakurai:

[To himself.] The first Christmas in a while without Michiko-san...and I still haven't found anything to take my mind off her. [Looking up from his drink as Kimura approaches.] Who? Oh, it's that cute freshman who came in with Kasuga's girlfriend. [Puts on a self-assured grin as he sets his glass on a table.] Maybe my luck is changing...here goes nothing! [Steps forward to stand next to Kimura as she nears the archway.] Pardon me...

Kimura:

[Looking up at Sakurai in confusion.] Hai?

Sakurai:

[Pointing upward.] Do you know about the Christmas tradition of mistletoe?

Katsu:

[Looking up at the sprig, to himself.] Nan da--?*

*What the--?

Sakurai:

[Continuing, as Kimura looks up.] They say that whoever is standing beneath the mistletoe is waiting for someone to kiss them.

[Katsu and Kimura's eyes widen as Sakurai turns Kimura to him, then kisses her full on the lips. Astonished outbursts from the rest of the group follow as Kimura melts beneath Sakurai's practiced kiss.]

Sakurai:

[As he breaks the kiss.] Merry Christmas!

Kimura:

[Starry-eyed, and more than a little dazed.] Ohhh...

[Sakurai slips an arm around her shoulders and steers her back towards the party, as Kasamatsu joins Katsu just outside the room.]

Kasamatsu:

[Low, to Katsu, as he stares at Sakurai.] *What* happened just now?

Katsu:

[Staring after the pair, shock and disbelief on his face.] Son na....* [The wrapped gift slips out of his hand and falls to the floor.]

*It can't be....

Kasamatsu:

[Noticing Katsu's rapidly deflating mood.] Hey...Katsu-san? Want to get out of here and talk about it? [He leads Katsu back down the hall and out the front door.]

[Cut to the outside patio. Ayukawa and Kasuga sit alone as the rest of the group continue to enjoy themselves inside. She pulls out a champagne bottle from the party table and pours it into two glasses Kasuga brought out with him.]

Kasuga:

[Hands one of the glasses to Ayukawa and toasts.] Our first Christmas together!

Ayukawa:

[Nods and returns the toast.] May we have many more!

[They drink their toast as a slight breeze blows cold air through the patio area. Ayukawa and Kasuga pull themselves closer for physical warmth as he gives her the small box.]

Kasuga:

I hope you like it. It's...a very special gift.

Ayukawa:

Wow...! Where did you get this?

Kasuga:

[Puts hand behind head.] Well...it's an old family heirloom. The legend says, you're supposed to give it to the person you care for more than anyone else in the world.

Ayukawa:

[Admires the pendant.] You had my name engraved on a family heirloom?

Kasuga:

[A little surprised.] Ah, un. Ojiisan* helped me! Can I help you put it on?

*Grandfather

Ayukawa:

[Nods.] Un. [Pulls her hair back and lets Kasuga fasten the pendant around her. As he does so, he feels something cold melt on his hand.]

Kasuga:

Yuki*? [Both him and Ayukawa watch in silence as the snow begins to drift down from the sky. He puts his hand on her shoulder as she leans closer to him.]

*Snow

Kasuga Narration:

It was the first Christmas I spent away from home. Like anything else, there's a certain apprehension about doing something for the first time. However, I'm spending Christmas this year with the woman I care about and close friends. I find myself looking forward to the coming New Year and the future as it unfolds.

END CREDITS


New Characters Designer/Writer  Stephen Tsai
Co-writers                      Bob Carragher
                                James Holman
                                Quincy S. Huoh
                                Jeff Williamson
Doujinshi Artwork               Tony Jung
Pre-readers                     Doug Eckhart
                                Brian Edmonds
                                Peter Van Owen
                                Jim Ramberg
                                Lisa Richardson
Very special thanks to          Hitoshi Doi

A tip of the hat and a deep bow to Matsumoto Izumi for starting 
the whole thing

If I left anyone off, my apologies. Any mistakes/embarrassing faux pas are entirely my own. If there is anything here you must flame, aim them at me and me alone.

Thank you for taking the time to read this episode of my series. I have the next episode in the works.

Hope you enjoyed it and thanks again!

I'll be doing character profiles, major location descriptions, and situation updates on a rotating basis for each episode. If there is a particular character, place or event that you would like to know more about, and it is not being covered, don't hesitate to email me and I will send you either a note or a copy of the episode it is introduced.

Focus on Sakurai Takahiro [Introduced in Episode 21]: The current occupant of Room No. 1, Sakurai is the only tenant who returns to the Boarding House from the previous year. Currently a second year mathematics student, he spent a previous semester in London studying abroad. He has a reputation among those who know him as something of a "ladies man", however, he is currently broken up with his previous girlfriend. Visual Description: A tall handsome guy with sandy-blond hair. Close anime comparisons include (but not limited by) Hasakawa from Koko wa Greenwood and Jadeite from Sailor Moon.

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Changes last made on: Wed Jan 28 13:22:04 1998