Rurouni Kenshin Fan Fiction ❯ Falling in Love Again ❯ Rock around the clock ( Chapter 2 )

Falling in Love again

A Rurouni Kenshin Pop-Art Remake

By Oryo

(A/N: Warnings for language!!! and allusions to sex between men)

Chapter 2: Rock Around The Clock

Tokyo, years 36/37 of Meiji (1905)

The wind, especially, when it is blowing from the ocean, carrying with it the scent of far away things, always reminds me of him.
Never said words.

New York, May 8, 1965

It wasn't one of the names they were looking for, but he interrupted his research. This name appearing on the passenger list of a flight from Tokyo recalled a flow of unbidden memories. How many years had it been that he had lost the traces of this man? But he still felt the bitterness and the anger of his failure. He had failed to nail this man once and for all, before he was out of reach for the FBI or the secret service. Could it be coincidence, that the man came back just now? His experience had taught him to consider even the strangest indication.

Henry Shatner picked up his phone and dialed a number. His best man. "Cagney, this is headquarters. Yes, I know it's late, but you're still awake, like I thought. Would you do me a favor? Yes, I think you would like it. Can you collect some information about a man called Kenneth Farrel? F-A-R-R-E-L. An American-Japanese. He arrived from Japan, April 31, at 14:37. Just find out if there was something special with his papers or the passage! Alright. 'night!" He dropped the receiver and smoked silently in the already hazy room. But just for a few minutes. Then he looked at his watch and dialed another, very long, number. This time to join Los Angeles.

"Here is Chief Henry Shatner, New York. It's you, Kate? How are you? I'm fine too, busy as usual. I would you like to send me the documents about Farrel. Yes, Kenneth Farrel. I don't know, I just want to be more careful this time. Prevention is better than cure. What? That is true. Yes, I would be grateful if you could send me that document too."

***

Arthur's still pissed off, and it's very funny to see him, swallowing his primal emotions. He wants to beat me senseless, but he doesn't. Besides, I wouldn't let him do it so easily. So he just kills me with his eyes while he's sipping some water. Kay and me are drinking beer, chilling out in the dressing-room. We have already packed the instruments in Kay's pick-up. I need a shower, but this that's for later. I'm too tired to stand up now. I need some coffee too.

"You shouldn't have done this." Kay says finally, halfway lying on the red couch. The well-used red couch. I know that Kay is right. Dancing with Cutie was not a real good idea, but I wanted him to be as loose as before. Before he left his place, after Arthur's sudden awakening.

Arthur! Cutie is exactly the kind of guy fitting in the strange wonderland where Arthur lives. A land made up of Gothic novels and symbolist pictures, crowded with unearthly creatures. Sometimes I pity him a bit, 'cause he doesn't know how to express his feelings. He's unable to say that he wants a guy, or a girl. But most of time it makes me want to provoke him. And this time I have a fucking good instrument provoke him, this time he has manifested his emotions. Cutie - bright eyes and flushed face, a girl-like guy with long red hair wearing some fantasy clothes. I'm quite curious how far Arthur will go if he's so obviously interested. However, even without this occasion to tease Arthur, I think Cutie is worth a check. I grow heady when I imagine, how amazing it would be to screw him.

Though for the dance, I didn't think about this. Strangely, I almost forgot my intention, and I certainly forgot that Maggie was not supposed to know about me being gay. The only wish I had now was to bring back the light and the rapture in his eyes. I feel a bit ridiculous about such sentimentality.

The voice of reason calls me back. "Are you listening to me, Sam? You cannot dance openly with another guy in this club, we had a deal about it."

"Nobody has even noticed." I make just a little effort to justify myself. "They all thought he was a girl."

Kay sighs. "This is not the point, Sam. You know very well, that we could have big problems if someone tells the police that the "Velvet" might be a meeting point for gay people. They would use the occasion for unexpected raids." This man's just being reasonable, but being reasonable doesn't fit with my philosophy. "And you know that they will find some suspicious people. That would be reason enough to close this club."

I pretend to yawn: "Don't try to frighten me. Besides, I thought Simon's friends would protect us. You pay them enough, don't you, Arthur?"

That's one of the things, I don't understand about Arthur. At first glance, he seems not to be the kind of guy who would pay protection money, but then Simon and Brian convinced him to do it. Perhaps, they got money from "the family" for purchasing this theatre and for the repairs. Sometimes, "the family" was quite generous, offering money or jobs. Easy money. I did some jobs for them too, but I prefer to stay a freelancer, caring only for my own business.

"Don't even dare to mess with me like this." Arthur says icily. "What you did was unprofessional. We had an agreement, that, this time, you would invite Maggie to dance. She's a good dancer as you know. What would you have done, if that man had messed it up?"

That was the only risk I took, but, unlike the others, I had heard Maggie repeating regularly that her "Shin-chan" was a professional dancer. Nobody could deny it, having seen him dance, the audience had sensed it. I had to grasp it very clearly. He forced me to be as perfect as possible, 'cause he's an extraordinary dancer. It has been a very long time since I felt so scared. But I will have my revenge, that sweet little butt, and his cute face will look even cuter, flushed with heat for me. For me, not for Arthur.

"Stop mocking me, Sam!" Can he read my mind? "Sometimes I think that you should leave the band. You're too irresponsible."

I get angry too. "Stop baiting me, Arthur! What kind of show would you do without me, you two? Tame political folk music?" Arthur only snorts disgustedly then he heads for the bathroom. He has promised Brian to play the DJ after the concert. He doesn't like dancing anyway. I stand up to get another beer. "Asshole!"

Kay shakes is head, but he has no right to say one fucking word. He should have defended me. Expel me from the band? How could this bastard even dare to make such a suggestion?

"Do you have plans for tonight?" Kay asks finally. How can he even ask so stupidly? I don't answer. Kay smirks. "Perhaps he was just too confused to refuse your offer. Perhaps he isn't gay at all."

This is one of the reasons why I like Kay this much: He treats my preferences as if it were a normal way of life. He jokes about it in the same way as he jokes about his own sex life. Or as he did, before he fell desperately for Maggie.

"You mean if he's bi. Like Arthur." That makes him laugh. He's laughing every time I tell him that Arthur is bi. He doesn't believe me. For him, Arthur's just strange and needs some very nice girl to comfort him. "Who knows? But, to tell the truth, I'm sure that Cutie's gay a hundred pro. Besides, he's already lost to my charm." I continue, and Kay's grin becomes more ironic. "Such a sweet thing! Did you see his butt? Looks good enough to eat?. And he's wearing silver chains around his neck and around his waist. He just cries for my attention with every fucking movement. No, I know he will beg for it."

While speaking, I note that Kay starts chewing his lower lip, a very odd expression on his face. Then I'm hit by a handbag, and the beer splashes over my chest and my pants.

"You should hear yourself, idiot." Maggie's standing beside my chair, and again she hits my head with her handbag. I stand up rapidly and begin to search for something to wipe my pants. Maggie goes past me, not deigning to look at me. Not even a disgusted one. "Hi, Kay! You must have a headache from listening to all the stupid words of this moron. Sorry, that I didn't believe you about his one track dirty mind. Guess, you won!"

"Hi, Maggie! I'm very glad to win." Kay says, and he's smiling like an idiot. Winning what? And why? I have the strange impression I have missed something in the last weeks. Could it be that they got together without me noticing? "Would you introduce us to the guest star?"

Traitor! Kay, you fucking bastard, you should have warned me! I spin around, and there he is, leaning against the doorframe. Eyes partly hidden behind these fiery red bangs framing his face. So delicate and sweet, even in the ugly light of the dressing-room. Sweet, sweet Cutie! I should be ashamed 'cause he must have heard all my chatting, but he still looks so pretty, by far too cute for his own good. Then he lifts his head a bit more and smiles. Immediately effective! Arthur chooses the very same moment to leave the bathroom. I see him swallow but he regains his composure very fast.

"Hi, Maggie! Nice to meet you, - your name is Farrel isn't it?" How can he know this? "My name is Arthur Sherman."

Cutie enters our little circle of embarrassed persons. "Nice to meet you too! Yes, my name is Kenneth Farrel. I'm Maggie's brother, kind of." Kenneth? Why the hell does she call him Shin-chan? He's very polite and shakes hands with every one. He's smiling brightly and innocently, even when he squeezes my hand. He doesn't comment on my words. Perhaps he's not angry at all, 'cause he knows that I said the truth.

Kay goes into the bathroom to fresh up, still grinning. He's been in love with Maggie for two years, but until now, she didn't show any sign of interest. Who knows how things could change?

"I would like to thank you, Farrel," Arthur, Arthur! He's looking so tense. Obviously, he has problems with how to deal with Cutie, being so near him. "for having contributed to our show. All your drinks are on the house."

Cutie laughs a bit, a soft chuckle. "Thank you, but I don't want to abuse your generosity." A slight flush taints his cheeks. Surely he's referring to more than the dance. I like to see him blushing even if it's for some thoughts about Arthur. How can I find something to embarrass you a bit, Cutie?

"Don't be so modest, Shin-chan!" Thank you, Maggie! This is working. I'm wondering what he's thinking about, blushing like this.

"Do as you wish!" Arthur's shrugging. "Unfortunately, I have to leave you, please, make yourselves comfortable for as long as you like."

He leaves, and I see that Maggie wants to leave too. "Come on, Shin-chan, let's go dancing! Kay will join us later. Perhaps we will put up with the presence of this idiot too."

She rushes by me, acting like the Queen of England. But Cutie smiles and nods. Then he looks at me, raising an eyebrow, while Maggie opens the door to the hall.

Come on, baby, let's do the twist ...

"Would you mind if I left my jacket here?" Cutie asks, accompanied by the sound of the music. "It's quite annoying to dance wearing it."

"I don't mind." I say, waiting for Maggie to depart. Just a few seconds with Cutie! Just to prepare for the fun later! He takes off his jacket and lays it over a chair. I can discern that the body under his loose silk buttoned shirt's as nice as the rest. "What do you think?"

"What should I think?" He stands close enough for me to touch him, but it's him who touches me first. The fingers of his right hand tap my chest. So, he's a naughty little boy and obviously more eager than me to come to get it on. My breath grows heavier, and I bite my bottom lip, as he is running his fingers down to my stomach very slowly and appreciatively until he reaches my belt. All my blood seems to follow him. I grip his teasing hand to venture it even lower to the slight stiffness between my legs. He's looking straight in my eyes, lips curved in the most beautiful smile I have ever seen from a guy. "What should I think? You're just a guy who wet his pants." He frees his hand easily, with a swift movement, then a not so gentle slap hits my buttocks. "Nice butt! Perhaps it is worth a check." I don't know how I look, but he chuckles amused. After this he leaves me with Kay standing at the door to the bathroom and grinning.

"Don't say anything, traitor!"

Luckily I can find an extra pair of pants, and I go to take a shower. Very cold!

This fucking little bastard did this on purpose. Why could I not push him down and show him who truly is the master? Why could he do this to me, taking me off guard and laughing at me? A man who just reaches to my shoulders. I could break all his bones if I wanted. Of course, this was never my intention. I don't want to take a guy against his will. I never needed to do this, and I will not start with now.

But I would have him, and he would beg for it. He's already halfway beaten, no doubt, 'cause he touched me. And didn't dislike it at all. I will find out what other weaknesses he has. I have my pride, and I will never lose in this kind of game. Defeat is for weaklings, and I'm not beaten yet.

Ready for the second round, I take another beer and go back into the club. Immediately I have a crowd of excited chicks around me. That means I'm obliged to please our fans before I can have fun. I beat around the bush a bit, making them laugh while searching for the others with my eyes. But I can't see them until most of the people stop dancing and head towards a fast growing circle.

Voices are chatting around me. "It's the girl from before. - But this is a guy. - Really, but they did dance together. - Do you think? - It's so sick. - disgusting ... - What a shame? - Poor Sam ... - How could he? - But this guy can really dance."

What the fuck? I pass through the crowd, and then I can see them. Maggie and Cutie. Making a fucking dance show. Shit! How can he put me in such a mess? Now everybody knows that I danced with a guy. People who came regularly to listen to our concerts. I hope Arthur will never learn about that. It would take an eternity, before he would let me forget it.

Luckily, Arthur does his job, and he chooses some very good songs for dancing. It's still the Twist session. No doubt, it suits Cutie and Maggie. Watching them, surrounded by the other dancers, my anger vanishes. They fit together very well, and I decide not to interfere, like I wanted to. I'm clever enough to see that I could never match Cutie at the dance. I would look ridiculous, only giving him a reason to laugh at me again. Besides, I notice that this dance is supposed to be for Maggie.

Maggie's Shin-chan. I know that he's the most important man in her life. I've known it since her twenty-first birthday, and I have to admit that I was jealous. Someone can be jealous of a friend as well as of a lover. Except for Kay, Maggie is the closest friend, I ever had. It is lots of fun to fight with her, teasing her and a little bit flirting with her. For several months, I even thought, hoped, that she could save me. Yes, save me. 'Cause, there's this voice in my mind repeating again and again the words of my parents: "You are damned. You are damned to hell." But even Maggie could not keep me from becoming hard when I see a guy signaling "please, fuck me!" with looks or movements. And she will not save him either. Every move is pure provocation, and I remember that I have to think about my new strategy.

I go to the bar with my beer and find Kay.

"You are no match for him, I can tell you." I raise my eyebrow at his sudden comment. "He's not like the other guys you picked up. You will never get him on the back stage couch, or in the park, or in a public location, or in Arthur's car."

"Shut up, Kay! Nobody asked for your fucking opinion." I'm getting angry hearing him talk like this about my activities. Sometimes it would even be better, if he was less liberal.

Still smiling, he leans over to me: "It's a bet. He will defeat you before you even get him."

Kay's crazy for bets and gambles as much as I do, but betting on my success with a guy is a new sort of game. Losing would hurt my pride in more than one sense. Furthermore, Kay doesn't wait for my reply, and this time, the big smile's warning me before the others arrive.

"Got changed?" The chuckling voice comments when Cuties takes a seat at my side, but I prefer not to answer. Cutie commands whiskey on the rocks, and for a while he does nothing but look cute and sip the drink. I think it would be a good idea to get him drunk. Just enough so he would be more relaxed. "You gave a great performance. Where did you learn to sing?"

"What?" I need a minute to realize that he has spoken with me, 'cause I was just occupied to looking at his lips and visualizing the amazing things he could do with them. Stupidly, I feel my cheeks burning. I'd never had what I was dreaming about. "What did you say?"

But before he can answer, a blushing girl comes to ask him for a dance. I'm quite surprised to see him accept with a very bright smile. He smiles a lot anyway. I take the opportunity and demand that Simon fills Cutie's glass again. Kay pushes his thumb down, hidden from Maggie's eyes, and I show him my middle finger.

Of course, Maggie sees my gesture and raises her eyebrow. Then she asks me for a dance. She doesn't show any sign of anger. Only her smile and her eyes tell me what she thinks. Idiot, don't overdo it.

"So, that's Shin-chan." I can't stop myself from saying this. "He's very cute. Cuter than the photos."

"So, you have an interesting predilection and didn't tell me about." She answers mockingly, and a few minutes, embarrassment closes my lips. "You always mocked Arthur with silly jokes about his penchant. But your reaction was obvious enough too."

"Arthur is bi." My answer sounds like pouting, and Maggie laughs, but ceases very quickly.

"It was a funny game until now, Sam, but you will stop chasing him now."

"What? Did he ask you to do this for him?" What a hypocrite coward! Hiding behind Maggie's back, playing the innocent.

"Of course not. Don't be stupid. He is just generous enough to let you play your foolish games. And I know he is far more sensible than you, idiot. Don't offend his prudence." Generous? Sensible? Prudence? That man? Could she be so blind? But, after tonight, she will be less naïve. She will see definitively that Cutie is far more naughtier than she thinks. Not the man of her life. Just a little, freakish, masculine slut! I know his kind, oh yes, I have had many guys of his sort. They're just good for sex.

*

My head aches like hell, and it's very difficult to open my eyes. My lids feel so heavy, as if something was laying on them. After a while I can discern what's around me 'cause the backstage room is filled with dim light. I'm laying on the couch. Unfortunately alone. And I have to believe that the dance is over 'cause of the silence. I don't remember falling asleep, just drinking and having fun with the others. And a smiling red-head. Oh, yeah, Cutie!

Obviously he didn't get drunk. Oh yes, I'm remembering now. He cheated, but it was rather adorable how he did it. He made me drink all his drinks changing them while I was dancing. It was already too late when I started to realize it. He laughed that soft, chuckling laughter of his when I called him cheater. The memory of this laughter creates a warm feeling in my stomach. Perhaps I need to go piss. Careful not to disturb my aching head too much, I stand up and go to the bathroom.

Released and a bit refreshed, with brushed teeth, I return in the other room. I decide to go back to sleep, but then I see that there's still light in the theatre. Have they forgotten to turn out the lights. Usually Brian or Simon who, every time, are the last to leave, turn off the lights. And they leave the key for me on the table of the dressing-room. But now there's no key. What the fuck?

Slowly, I go on the stage to take a look in the hall. And there - I blink few times to force my eyes to believe what they are seeing. There he is, sitting on the edge of the stage. I feel a sudden attack of expectancy, 'cause he's still here. With me. And obviously alone. Whatever reason he might have, weaknesses are not permitted in a fight. I sneak up on him, imagining how I will get my victory. After all, a prey who gives up too easily is not really worthy. But now, I think, the time to surrender is coming.

"Do you feel better?" This man doesn't even turn, and his voice makes me almost jump. Shit happens! I have to reject my first plan, to simply get him down by surprise. More subtlety then. I settle myself down next to him, and he scrutinizes me slightly amused like he did before I started my little game with him. But, after a while, this mischievous light fades and, finally, he turns his eyes away to look at the ashtray in his hands. Then he sighs and puts it on the side. "Do you want me to drive you home? They left the key for you to lock up."

Fishing in his pocket, he finds the key to the theatre to give it to me. His hands are covered with scars. I hadn't seen it before, and it is so odd to find this almost perfect being marked like this.

"What happened?"

He follows my gaze.

"Fire."

Not your business. He doesn't need to raise his voice or speak sharply to warn me.

I shrug, and we sit some time without speaking. I still feel a little dizzy, and my head aches, but, finally, it dawns on me to ask.

"Where are the others? And why are you still here?"

"You remember getting drunk?" I snort as an answer. "You pissed Maggie off and she got really angry with you." Considering the smirk on his lips and his look, I should be glad I don't know what I did. Obviously, something stupid and ridiculous. "Kay suggested he drive her home, and so he did." My mouth falls open, and Cutie smiles this bright smile of his which is supposed to be innocent, but isn't innocent at all. What a man! One point for Maggie, he's sensible. I don't think that Maggie told him about Kay. He just understood by watching. And he gave Kay the chance to drive Maggie home, without me to tease him, without Arthur to sit in heavy, gloomy silence. "And your cousin - "

"He left. Yeah, it's not the first time. When he's angry with me or pissed off with some mysterious incident, he leaves, leaves without a word after his DJ shift. Don't worry about him."

"Have you never asked where he was going?"

Sweet Cutie isn't looking cute now. I can't read the expression on his face. Sorrow? Sympathy? But I feel anger rushing through my mind. He shouldn't think this much about Arthur. Arthur's no fun at all.

"First, he doesn't like me spying on him as he has said many times. Second, he's searching for inspiration, as he said too." Hey, why do I need to justify myself? "What about you? You didn't explain why you stayed here."

"Your friends needed a bit some help with the cleaning." There's a really weird glint in his eyes when he's saying these words. Fucking shit, I have never been this drunk enough to puke. "And I needed time to think anyway."

Now he's hiding something, I can feel it. But I can't put my finger on it.

"Think? About what? Having sex with me?"

The wrong thing to say, buddy. In one second, the blink of an eye, everything changed. The sudden change of his eyes almost frightens me. Cold fury in narrow slits. Then, abruptly, the scary look fades, and he smiles apologetically.

He stands up, takes the ashtray and goes backstage. I need some time to regain my composure. A warning voice in my mind tells me not to mess with this man. But, then I shrug to myself. Obeying the voice of reason? Why should I? My life should be fun and adventure. Taking some risks just excites me. I get up too and follow him. Didn't he say something about driving me? I'm not so sure. My hazy mind has limited my perceptive capacities.

When I enter the dressing-room, he isn't there, but I can hear the water running in the bathroom.

"What did you say about driving me?" I shout, while I'm brushing my hair. I admire myself in the mirror. Just cool! Come on, baby, how can you resist this charming guy?

"Pardon?"

I spin around, and - Honestly, I can hear my blood rushing in my own ears. The delicate skin of his face is covered by water drops. They are hanging on his eyelashes like dew in the morning, dripping down his neck, along the silver chain he's wearing. And the wet red bangs are sticking on his cheeks and his forehead like feathers. Accentuating the soft curves of his features. He must do this on purpose, just to drive me crazy. Just to make me get fucking poetic. I don't want to think about fucking poems, I just want to -

"Why not stay with me?" Rapidly I close the distance between us. "And have sex with me?"

This time he doesn't get angry, just raises his eyebrows.

"You are really blunt, aren't you?"

"Come on!"

"Why should I?"

He still mocks me, but I will shut his mouth. Before he knows what's happening, I pull him in my arms and search for his lips, trapping him closely between the door and my body. His taste is exciting, and he ceases struggling rapidly. Yes! I get it. My senses are enflamed, the blood rushes faster through my veins. It's awesome to savor the softness of his neck and his cheeks under my fingers, still moist from the water. My thumb stroking his throat, my fingers playing with the chain, rubbing the metal against the skin, and his lips part slightly. Victory! I take care just to brush this pliable flesh with my tongue, and relish the shiver shaking his body.

"'cause, I'm nice and cool and witty and sexy." My voice is low and raw, when I break the kiss for a moment.

"Shut up!"

A determined hand grips my neck, and his mouth claims mine. What the fuck? Immediately, my back is covered with goose-bumps. First slowly, then more demanding he conquers my mouth with tongue, lips and teeth, sucking my bottom lip, exploring me hungrily, and very conscious of his actions. Breath is trapped in my throat ... shit! Furious need overwhelms me when I hear the contented sounds he's making. One of his thighs brushing against my inner thighs, brushing against more private places. My hands wander to the small of his back, then lower to his ass. Just give it to me! Now. Immediately. I squeeze his buttocks not too gently, but he's not as fragile as he looks anyway.

I feel out of control in this situation, even pushing tightly against him, even making him sense my need. It's not me who controls this situation, submitting helplessly to these sensations prickling over my skin. The hand gently massaging at my neck finds and touches places clearly connected with the part of my body he brushes so torturing slowly with his thigh. The other hand creeps over my chest, teasing pinches provoke helpless shivers all over my body. I'm frightened and incredibly excited at the same moment. Slowly, savoring, this hand continues its travel over my body until it reaches my ass, squeezing it lightly. He knows better tortures. It's just the thumb that strokes softly the skin above my pants, then he grazes it with his nail. How did he find this place? Against my will, I'm arching against him under his touch, my own grip around his buttocks growing harder. And I can barely breathe.

His lips leave my mouth. Only to wander over my cheek to my ear, his breath caressing the skin. "I will consider it." He is whispering in my ear, tickling it with the tip of his tongue, sending me moaning in sweet and torturous pleasure. Oh god! I feel the firmness of the wall at my back. When and how did he turn me around?

Finally, he lets me go.

A lazy smile lightens his face when he pushes me away, gently. He's only breathing a little harder than before. Fucking shit! My legs feel like jelly. I've never been kissed like that. Never this aggressively. I lean myself against the wall, struggling with my breath and the heat in my body. I see him looking at me with concern. Compassion is his weakness. No weakness is permitted in a fight.

"It's very easy. I want it, and you want it. So, stop being so coquettish, Cutie!" I say as steadily as my husky voice permits.

"Look, Sam! You have gained a minimal chance that I would consider it." He shows me with his fingers how minimal this chance is. One centimeter! "But this chance will pass like this," He snaps with the same fingers. "if you call me that a second time. Because you are a nice guy, I will tell you that nicknames related to 'sweet', 'cute' or 'lady' piss me off. Really!"

There is no sharpness in his voice, but the warning is obvious.

"How you want me to call you? Shin-chan? Kenneth? Kenny? You have quite a lot of names."

He grins at me, then I see a soft light in his eyes.

"Shin-chan is a children's pet name for Shintaro. It's my Japanese name. You can call me anything you want, just use a name."

We stay silent for a few moments.

"Well! What did you say about driving me, - Shintaro?"

"Yes, if you want I could take you home. Maggie has left me her car."

The red Chevy? "The red Chevy?"

He smiles knowingly. "I needed a lot of charm to convince her. She is quite obsessive with this car."

"I know." After I turned off the light in the backstage room, we go through the hall to the exit. "Hey, I have a great idea. Why don't you let me drive the car until my house? Then you can drive all the way to Brooklyn."

Even in the weak light I can see that he's amused, then he bursts in this - unsupportable! - chuckling laughter.

"Thank you for your offer, but I'm not that desperate to die."

"Hey, I'm not drunk anymore."

"I have no doubt, but you were drunk enough not to be able to drive."

"My ability to recover is unbeatable."

"You are surely right. But I would never trust my safety to the hands of someone who, just an hour ago, vomited in Maggie's lap." Thank you very much! It was not necessary to say it loudly. "That was rude. I'm sorry, but I think it might be safer if I drove."

We have reached the exit now. I have turned off all the lights and locked the door. Shintaro is yawning and rolls his shoulders back while he takes some steps on the sidewalk. Why does he have to be so fucking sensuous?

"Why did you say, your name was Kenneth Farrel?"

He shrugs heading quickly to the red Chevy parked ten feet away.

"It's the name standing in my passport, it's my American name. My father came from this country."

There is a voice in my mind warning me, but - "What's the matter with him?"

"My parents are dead."

Great! I should have remembered. Maggie told me that he had lived with his aunt - this interesting woman we all, especially Kay, really respect. Of course! They have the same eyes.

"Don't worry! Get in!" He has opened the door from inside, and I sat down on the passenger seat. A delightful smile crosses Shintaro's face when he turns on the motor. "Where is it?"

"Broome Street."

"Okay."

*

He drives very fast and recklessly. Of course, he chooses the wrong way, but I don't open my mouth. If he doesn't want my help, no problem. It will not be my fault, if he gets lost. We turn right and left and right and left, crossing the Avenue of the Americas and the 7th Avenue.

"Are you pouting?"

"What?" I almost jerk off my seat.

"You haven't said a word for," He's looking at his watch. "five minutes."

"How late is it?" Just to prove to him, that I'm not pouting. Girls pout.

"Almost three in the morning."

No wonder that the streets are a bit emptier. This is the quietest time of the night. Only the creatures of the night fill the streets. Ah, no! 'Creatures of the night' reminds me of Arthur.

"It's strange. Besides some stores, the street hasn't changed very much." The dreamy voice of my companion pierces my thoughts, and I realize that he has reduced the speed of the car. He points out an insignificant, dark building. "We lived in this house for six years. Well," He laughs quietly. "this will be the end of the nightly sightseeing tour. I just wanted to see it."

I feel stupid, and the next acceleration of the car presses me deeper in the seat.

"You could have said it earlier."

"What?"

"Stop mocking me! You could have said, that you know this part of the city."

The strange, violet eyes are blinking in surprise. "I'm sorry, I had no intention of teasing you. I thought you knew it from Maggie."

"Why should I ask her about your biography?"

What will you say now, um?

The amused smile is back, when he glances at me from the corner of his eye.

"Is that a trick question?"

"You -"

"Wait a minute!" Lifting his right hand, he interrupts me sharply before I even know what to say. One more time, the abrupt change of behavior and facial expression bewilders me. Suddenly he's braking hard and stops the car. Opening the door and rising up, he shouts at the top of his voice. "Hey, you! Get off these girls!"

It's only now that I see the reason for his behavior. A bunch of thugs are fighting with two girls on the other side of the street, trying to drag them in a dark space between two houses. And of course, no one is around to help them. Why are the streets always so empty when things like this happen? Of course, the thugs ignore Shintaro.

"Fine! Have it your way!" I hear him growling and leave the car either, too. The tension in his body and the tone of the voice tell me that he will do something stupid. I just detect a silvery flash and metallic clanking, before he starts running. He's very fast. Swearing under my breath I follow him.

The girls are quite courageous, using their purses and - shoes? - as weapons, but against six men they would not last very long. Such things are happening every night and every day in this city. After a while, it becomes safer not to see it anymore. Besides, nobody can be saved in this world. The only good thing is having fun as long as you can get him it. Unfortunately for the thugs, a good fight's just fun for me.

"I have asked you to leave these girls alone." Shintaro shouts a second time. The thugs turn around, facing him laughing. "It's a warning to prevent useless injuries."

He seems to be quite naive. Of course, they don't take him seriously.

Oh!

They should have.

The first man attacking him, a tall, but lanky guy, is down before he really understands what happens. Just with a precise kick in the guts and a punch to the neck from my strange companion. Then silver flashes against the neck of the next, while I'm faced with a big heavy guy. He looks somewhat familiar to me, but, with just only a few streetlights, it's difficult to see details of his appearance. And besides, it doesn't matter anyway, 'cause I get him down very quickly. He's just an ordinary thug who had never done prize fighting.

Looking around, I see only two of the gang left standing up. Obviously, they realize the sudden change of balance in this fight and prepare to make to split. I don't know if it's because of the late hour or for the rest of due to the alcohol left in my blood, but I'm a bit too slow as the man next to me holds suddenly holds a knife in his hand. A quick move, one of the girls is screaming, and then I get him at the same moment as he's hit across the face by - a silver chain. He collapses and the last man standing has already disappeared into the darkness of the night.

With a soft clanking, the chain is falling down on the street. Shintaro turns to the hurt girl - a pretty, young lady in well worn clothes - who has clutched her right hand over the left arm. He's not even breathless and is still wearing his beret, as if nothing had happened.

"Quickly, miss - Oh, Miss Karen?" For a second, his voice sounds really surprised. "Well, quickly, we should not stay on this dark corner."

"It's not so bad, it's only the my arm." The girl says, and it's just now, that the shock of the pain's hitting her. Shintaro grips her, before she falls down. Carefully, he picks her up to carry her to the car. Apparently, Shintaro knows the little miss. I follow them more slowly, picking up the chain on the way. Very interesting. The weight's not as light as if the fabric was just silver. I let it slide in the pocket of my jacket.

"Hey, I won't let you take advantage of her in her condition!" The other girl yells and punches him in the back. She's a small, black girl with a lot of braids around the head. As far as I can see, she's wearing a large dark cloak.

Funny situation! I want to laugh, but instead, I clutch the cloak by the collar and lift up the little thing. She tries to hit me with her shoes. High heels.

"Unfortunately, we don't have time to discuss it now." I say dodging her blows and trying to get her away from this dark alley. "Besides, we have rescued you. How you can you doubt our sincerity?"

"I will never trust a white man." She answers, continuing to struggle.

"I'm not that white."

I hear her gasp, but we're already at the car. Shintaro has set the wounded girl on the passenger seat. She only seems to be a little dizzy, but hasn't lost her consciousness or her temper, because I can hear her explaining: "No, I don't need to go to the Hospital."

"Sure." Shintaro helps her out of her jacket, the cut is rather nasty, bleeding profusely.

"You are so stubborn, Karen!" I put down my burden on the sidewalk, and she's putting on her shoes, complaining loudly. "How often have I told you that I'm used taking care of myself? I don't need a bodyguard. Now see, what happened to you!"

I think it's very good that she's yelling like that, 'cause the little missy in the car gets a bit angry. "You should be more grateful." She replies. "You could have been hurt severely, if I had not been here." Sometimes anger's good for you.

I exchange a look with Shintaro. He has gone to the trunk, searching for the first aid kit, and when he's coming back now, sorrow and amusement are struggling on his features.

"Would you keep an eye on these thugs!" He asks me before crouching beside the car. Turning around, I see the men getting up slowly, but they prefer to stay safe instead to mess with us another time. Looking down at him as he treats the wound with calm hands almost makes me wish I was wounded too. "Perhaps, we should have called the police." He says suddenly very thoughtful.

No use, if you want my opinion. They would just take our names, ask the girls what the heck they were doing on the streets at this time of night. I would never trust a cop. Besides, my name is already on file.

"No!" The reaction of both girls is identical.

Shintaro shrugs, and I believe, he doesn't trust the police either. It was just a polite suggestion.

Finally, he has finished his treatment and gets up to put away the first aid kit.

"Okay, lets go!"

Whatever you want, my dear! I open the back door to settle myself behind the driver seat.

"Hey, where are you taking her?" The black girl punches him again, this time she chooses his side as her target. "We don't even know your name."

"Don't worry, Mimi! We -"

"First, my name is Kenneth Farrel." Shintaro interrupts a possible argument between the girls. "Second, the wound needs to be stitched, and the hospital is not very far away."

"I don't need to go to the hospital!"

"I will not let her go alone with two men."

Shintaro is sighing. "Of course, you will accompany us and if you want I can drive you home later too."

The black girl steps back a bit.

"I don't think that you want to drive to Harlem in the middle of the night." She says quite aggressively. "Besides, I don't need any help from you, I can take care of myself."

"Don't be so stubborn!" Despite her blood loss, the little miss obviously has enough energy to yell, but it's no use.

"I don't need your help." Mimi is shouting back, and I wonder how often they had such a this discussion.

Annoying girls! Loud girls! I wish Maggie would was here. She is always able to deal with awkward girls. But, now, they are Shintaro's problem. He wanted to save them. The hero who saves the damsels has to deal with them, not his loyal companion. It's always like that, in the movies.

"Stop!" He doesn't even need to raise his voice, as sharp as his tone is now. "It's out of question to leave you alone now, Miss Mimi. I can understand, that you hesitate to trust us. But I promise you that I simply want to help you. I don't mind driving you to Harlem. I have no doubt, that you are a tough girl, but you can't stay alone now, because, in a few minutes, you might collapse from the shock. Get in the car, please!"

The girl gapes, but then she obeys. I think she knows that he's right. Now, she's still excited from the fight, but when the adrenaline rush is over, it will be hard to deal with this knowledge: It was just luck, that she escaped the danger of being raped and - probably murdered.

"Isn't it a bit late for two girls to be on the streets?" Shintaro asks when we are sitting in the car.

"One has to make money, red-head." The black girl says somewhat offensively. I find myself thinking that they are quite young for prostitutes.

"We work in a Jazz Club around the corner." The missy explains with a weak voice, and against my will, I feel blushing. "Her name is Mimi Melville, she's the piano player. I work there as a waitress." There's a hint of bitterness in her voice. But, it fades quickly when she speaks with the black girl. "There is no need to be aggressive, Mimi. He is a very old acquaintance."

"My name's Sam Sherman." If it's time for social conventions, I want to introduce myself too.

Shintaro is parking the car, near the Vincent Hospital and leads the I-don't-need-any-help complaining missy to the Emergency entrance. As I'm following him, the black girl tugs at my jacket.

"Are you related in some way to a man called Arthur Sherman?" She is asking, grinning like a Cheshire cat. I watch how Shintaro and the missy are dealing with a nurse. Then I see the coffee machine. Yes, coffee would be fine, I think, inserting some coins. "Hey, answer me when I ask you something." Mimi's voice is growing louder.

The machine spits out a thin brown liquid supposed to be coffee and tasting like - well, nothing delightful. Finally I say calmly: "Arthur is my cousin."

"Yippie!!!" She's shrieking so loudly that I have to grimace. But, not only me. The other people waiting for someone to treat them, or for the doctor, or for whatever almost jump off their seats. And they are as surprised as me when she is hugging me enthusiastically. Shintaro who has joined us at the coffee machine is even smiling, the first time since we have met the girls. "You are blessed by god. He is such a great man, a genius. I love him. He took care of me. He taught me playing the piano ..."

"Yes, he has a life beyond music," I interrupt her babble when I see Shintaro raising an eyebrow to ask. "he's a social worker."

"In Harlem?"

"Oh yes, he is the most courageous man." Mimi doesn't leave any time for a reply. "It's not usual for a white man to be well liked in Harlem." The hint of serious thoughts fades quickly. "He taught me music, he taught us, me and a few buddies, how to promote our Jazz band - Unfortunately, the others left the band, and a girl alone cannot be a band. - Ah, it's such a pity that I have to work every Friday. I would die to see one of his concerts one time. - It's quite a long time, since I've seen him..."

She's babbling and babbling, switching from regret to excitement. Complaining that she hadn't seen Arthur for many weeks, praising his extraordinary talents. I stop listening, settle myself on a chair and watch Shintaro. He is going to a phone, tries to call someone and returns. An irritated expression on his face. He leans against the wall, facing me. Thoughtful looks and a sad, little smile around the lips, when he becomes aware of me observing him. Wonderful! I just wanted to screw him, and now I'm sitting in a Hospital, beside a girl annoying me to death with praises of Arthur. King Arthur, she calls him. Ha!

Finally, Karen Kaszowiz comes back, her left arm in a slung, her legs a bit wobbling, but she smiles brightly, when she notices us waiting for her.

*

"What about your family, Miss Karen? I couldn't reach anyone. How can it be, they let you work this late at night?"

Shintaro is asking when as we exit the Emergency room, all formalities finished. That's what is troubling him. He has tried to call her home wherever that might be.

"We live alone now, my brother and me." The girl tries to sound cheerful and optimistic, but her face is very pale. "He's almost twelve years old. Sometimes, he doesn't hear the phone when he is sleeping."

None of us - Mimi included -can think of anything to say as we go to the car. I feel somewhat sorry for her, but shit happens in all families. And sometimes children have to grow up fast. For some reason, Shintaro appears to be very distressed. I can see it in his face, reflected by the mirror.

*

"Nice shack!" I remark just to say something when we climb the stairs. The shack's pretty high, but it's a shack anyway. Ugly and dirty, and the fucking elevator isn't working. Fucking Samaritans as we are, we are scaling the whole fucking stairway with her to the last floor. The 6th floor.

This top floor's a bit nicer than the rest. Dark-green paper on the walls, and we look directly into a gold-framed mirror when we're leaving the staircase. An old engraving announcing the "Kaszowiz Dance School" is visible on the left door, and the same name's listed on the other door.

The missy manages just to unlock the door, before she collapses from the long climb. I catch her, before she falls on the floor, and Shintaro luckily finds the lightswitch in the apartment. The little hall's very comfortable and nice with a wooden hat-stand, more mirrors and old furniture. But the best thing is a couch where I can lay down the girl who's blushing, embarrassed about her condition.

"Do you have some whisky?" Mimi asks. "It might help you to get to sleep quickly."

"No, we have no alcohol in the house. Don't worry about me. I will be fine." The little missy tries to sound wide awake, but she's looking quite tired.

"You should visit a doctor tomorrow. Just to see, if the wound is healing without complications." Shintaro tells her calmly. "Do you have someone to look after you? Besides your brother."

"Don't worry. I've been taking care of myself for one year." The girl replies stubbornly. "I will be fine. Besides, you should remember that you went to Europe at the age of fifteen, all alone."

Interesting. He left home at almost the same age as me. Obviously, the girl has a point with this argument. "Okay, but it would be better - "

"You could be more quiet, raccoon!" One of the doors opened and the sleepy face of a dark-haired boy appears in the doorway. Slowly, his mouth is falling open in complete stupefaction, when he looks at us. "What are all these people doing here? Are you crazy, or what?"

Little boy with a big mouth. "Shrimp!" Mimi's thundering, slapping him on his head. I had the same intention, but the girl was faster than a weasel. "Don't speak like that to your sister!"

"Hey, hey!" Shintaro grips her collar the same way I did before, shifting her with a swift movement away from the boy. "It's no use. Look, kid!"

"I'm not a kid!" The boy is yelling back. Yeah, it's yelling day today.

"Whatever! My name is Kenneth Farrel. Your sister has been attacked on the streets tonight."

"I can speak for myself" Of course! The discussion gets really funny now with another reply from the missy.

"Yes. Sorry, Miss Karen!"

The missy is sitting up on the couch. I'm still amazed at what effect anger has on her physical condition. "These men have helped me and the other girl, Yacko. They are brave and reliable." She explains to her brother who tries to hide his concern. But he can't! "Besides, Kenneth Farrel was a student of grand-ma."

The boy doesn't look more impressed, and Shintaro seems to be rather ashamed at this statement. Softly he says: "I think, we should leave now and drive miss Mimi home, you need rest, Miss Karen." We do as he suggests, and the boy accompanies us to the door.

A few minutes later, we are sitting in the car again. I feel fucking angry, 'cause the silly little weasel-girl has taken my place at the driver's side. But then I decide, that I prefer her annoying him instead me.

"Did you really study dancing?" She starts chatting, right after he starts the car. "I mean, that is a queer sport. It isn't even a real sport. You are just hopping around."

It's me who takes a deep breath hearing her pronouncing the word 'queer'. Shintaro stays completely calm, there is even a slight smile on his lips.

"Have you ever seen a dance performance?"

"No, I don't want to waste my money on such silly things."

"Then make up your mind after you do see one!"

"You are quite rude."

"Do you think so? What about you, Miss Mimi? Travelling across the entire city to play in a Jazz Club isn't normal for a young girl."

"I'm seventeen!" The girl slaps his arm, and I can see Shintaro's smile growing more amused. "But I will tell you. I wanted to be as near as possible to King Arthur." She sighs dramatically. "Every day, before I start my shift, I take a look in the "Velvet", but he never shows up."

Arthur's not sociable at all, he never is visible in the "Velvet" apart from the rehearsals and the concerts. I could tell her where she might find him, but I don't want to be the target of Arthur praises a second time. Unfortunately, I had forgotten that she already knew about my relationship with him. She turns around and looks at me, almost hanging between the seats.

"You will tell him, that I'm looking for him. You will tell me, where I can find him. It's so great that I got to know you now, Rooster."

"What?" I cry out and grip her arm. How dare she call me that?

"Would you please return to your seat, Miss Mimi?" The red-haired traitor has problems swallowing his laughter, and he flashes me a glance in the mirror. I'm wavering between anger and excitement, but I start to love the mirror. Weasel-Mimi is obeying, and Shintaro takes up the conversation again. "And this is the only reason you play in this club? You should have asked for a job in the "Velvet"."

"Don't think I'm stupid. I asked this guy, Brian Reynolds, for a job: He is not only a fucking racist, but the "Velvet" has no piano either." That Brian might be a racist is really new for me. I never had problems with him, he's very calm, almost a bit shy. Maybe, I should question him a little about the girl. As short tempered as she is, she could be offended by something meaningless. "The piano is important, because I have to practice as much as possible. I want to enter the Manhattan School of Music, but I need more practice and money for it. The examination will be in July."

"What other instruments do you play?"

"Trumpet and guitar, but I sing too." And then she suddenly starts to imitate Judy Garland: "Somewhere over the rainbow ..."

Normally, I would be embarrassed to be in the company of such a foolish girl like her, singing in a car, but I'm absolutely amazed by her voice and its capacities. After the second couplet, Judy Garland becomes Shirley Bassey, singing "Goldfinger". Arthur is the greatest idiot on earth, I think. Over and over he tells us that we need a fourth person for the band. How could he not ask this girl? Hadn't she spoken about a jazz band? "The gang"? Arthur's strange friends? I knew those guys, but I never thought that they might be able to make music. How could Arthur be so stupid?

"That was great." Shintaro says, when she's ending her singing, suddenly blushing. "Where did you learn to sing? Don't tell me that it's just natural talent."

She's laughing cheerfully. "You're right, I got some of the fundamentals from our choirmaster. I have sung in the church since my childhood, and I'm even leading singer for prayer meetings."

"Sam has a good voice too. I think your voices would fit together very nicely."

Our eyes cross in the mirror again, and he smiles warmly at me. He really means what he has said. I feel stupid, that this thought fills me with such gladness, but I can't fucking help myself.

"The rooster?"

I grip her neck from behind, and she shrieks, still laughing.

"Shut up, weasel!"

"Hey, hey." Shintaro reaches over with one hand to free her. I give up, 'cause his hand brushing mine sends a tingle through my body, raising the small hairs at the back of my neck and covering my back with goose-bumps. "No, really, he's the true star of the rock band."

I could kiss him for these words, but I will not sing to prove it to her. Never. Not in a fucking car.

*

The streets are bathed in gray light. The are really crowded now, with cars and people. It's 5:30 in the morning. When Mimi finally tells us to let her get out at the next corner, we have sung several songs and duets in the little car theatre. I've never felt that childish for very long time. But the other two got the best of me with their jokes and flirting.

"Do you live here, Miss Mimi?" Shintaro asks when he has stopped the car.

"Not directly, but I will be fine. You better not go to my house with this car." She's opening the door and continues with her light-hearted innocence. "Besides, they don't like queers in this part of the city, and don't get me wrong, but your looks are just crying queer." It sounds like a synonym for a coward, sick and weird at the same time. Shintaro's knuckles are turning white, but there is no special emotion showing on his face. The girl doesn't realize the effect of her words, she is still smiling cheerfully. Ha, I think, she doesn't even know what she is saying 'cause she gently taps his arm. "However, I'm grateful for the ride. You were right, it was better not to be alone, but now, I'm almost home, and I will be fine. So, thank you!" She gets out, then glances at me, grinning a bit more shyly. "Don't forget about Arthur!"

While we are following her skipping steps with our eyes, Shintaro lets the steering-wheel go. Looking at his watch, he leans his head back and sighs heavily.

"She is just stupid."

"What?"

"This girl, she speaks without thinking."

Shintaro shakes his head. "I don't care about that, - well not too much. Please, don't bother with anger. Besides, I don't think she is stupid. At least, she is right about many things. Being black and gay might be harsher than being gay and looking like a woman." My heartbeat must have stopped for a second. The feeling emerging inside me strangles my throat, nearly chokes me and makes my eyes burn with unshed tears. Oh god! No, no, no one will see me cry, never in my - My cool-blooded mood returns in an instant, Shintaro is turning around a bit, facing me smiling. But he perceives my inner struggle. The smile grows softer and warmer. "Do you still want to drive this car?"

"How can you even ask?" I reply as relaxed as I can.

"I ask, because I have just reached my physical limit."

"But it was you who wanted to help this girls. The hero is supposed to be untiring."

Now, he is laughing, climbing into the passenger seat. "Come on, it's your dream car!" Feeling much better, I get out of the back seat and settle into the driver's seat. I'm a bit tired too, but I would never admit it. "You should be satisfied by reaching one of your goals for tonight."

Startled to hear such naughty comments from him, I poke him in his side, provoking a gasping laughter and a writhing movement. He's ticklish. A major weakness! Very satisfied with my discovery, I start the car. After a while, I realize that he's really exhausted, 'cause he pulls off his beret without caring about his hair arrangement and rubs his frowning forehead. Then he leans back his head and closes his eyes.

A little bit later, I note that he's fallen asleep. Looking so fucking cute that I need all my strength of will to concentrate on the road.

*

I find a spot to park in front of Helen Richard's drugstore. Yawning I turn my gaze to Shintaro. He has sunken deeper in his seat, and his head is leaning against the window cupped in his right hand. The other is clutching the beret in his lap. Calm breaths lift his chest in a regular motion. His sleeping face is peaceful and sweet. A few long bangs have strayed from the artistic creation of his hair, falling down over his shoulder. Fiery-golden silk on dark-blue velvet. I reach over to savor their texture, thinking how amazing he must look wearing them all down. I have a certain attraction to queens, and he would be a good one.

Touching him is enough to rebuild slight need, but I know, that, for now, my chance is gone. I 'm not up to it anyway, as tired as I am now.

Sighing, I shake his shoulder to wake him up. First, he makes some funny, whining sounds of unhappiness, which make me laugh. And I relish the satisfaction being the one who laughs.

"What are you laughing at?" He asks me, rubbing his sleepy eyes and stretching. Well, while he's stretching, I almost forget my thought about weariness.

"Nothing. What now? You could stay and - sleep."

"No," His answer is sounds final, but - Is that a hint of regret I hear? "They will be very worried about me, if I'm not back, before they awake." He continues yawning, but, suddenly, he opens the door. "Could you wait a moment?" I nod, and he leaves the car for the drugstore. Slowly, I get out too, and leaning my arms on the roof, I wait for his return. When Shintaro comes back, he's waving a coke can. "Short term remedy." He explains, opening the can, and he drinks, standing at my side. "Want some too?"

I take the can from his hand and have a drink too, to swallow my renewed urge. He gets in the car and takes a look in the mirror. Sighing, he starts to adjust his hair a bit, before putting his cap back.

Then he turns on the motor.

"I would like us to go out again one of these days? I haven't been in the city for more than five years, I'm not up to date on where people meet."

He's speaking of gay people, but he doesn't wait for my answer. It was just a proposition to have a reason to meet again. Just for fun! Yes, I could tell him about our Saturday night sessions and the "Underground", where everyone - really everyone - is accepted. Our little illegal club.

"We'll see." I answer indecisively, because I don't know if I want to continue this game. Although he is an interesting target, he may be more trouble than he's worth. All what I want is great sex without obligation, not a complicated relationship.

"Okay." He shrugs, but doesn't look angry or offended when he starts the car. "See you!"

My eyes follow the car until he turns right to Broadway, and I am grinning. Yes, I'm somewhat proud of myself. If he is interested, he will come on his own. What a wonderful idea! I could still win my bet with Kay and preserve my pride.

After all, I still have his chain in the pocket of my jacket. Maybe, he will miss it.

Author's notes:

1. Let's talk about the characters and the biggest change! I know that I changed Misao's appearance a lot, and I hope you will me forgive this liberty. I had several reasons for this. First, I thought that giving her a difficult social background could show her wonderful character better, because a person who stays cheerful and full of energy even if her life isn't so easy seems very interesting too me. I have read so many fiction where Misao is just the type "crazy, silly girl", that I thought she deserved better. Second, the differences of skin color and the problems of racism will give more impact to the conflicts.

2. Let's talk about the characters (II)! Sam is very single-minded and superficially, you think. Yes, you are right, and this is my version of the "Zanza" character. One of the major plot lines of part one is my (transported) version of the fight Kenshin vs. Sano. I don't want to say more, because I risk spoiling my story.

3. Let's talk about the characters (III)! The name of the hero: Shintaro = Shinta (shin = heart/ ta = great/big) + ro (explicit masculine ending form for a name). For reasons which will be revealed later in the story, it is out of question that his parents wanted would name him "Heart of the Sword". And I considered Shinta too soft. The idea giving my character a Western name and a Japanese name I got from "Fake".

Other characters: I think there is no need to say who Yacko is. This name is a pet form for Yakub Kaszowiz. Brian Reynolds is an OC, but he can be compared with the side characters of the manga/anime who, sometimes, don't have names.

4. Let's talk about New York!

Topography: The Vincent Hospital is located in the Northern part of Greenwich Village.

Do I need to explain Harlem?

Lifestyle: "queen" means "drag queen" = transvestite.

"Velvet and Blue-jean" and "Underground" = the names of the two clubs are a joke, giving my impression of the music they play. "Velvet Underground" was an avant-garde band (first record in '67) promoted by Andy Warhol. One of their singers was Lou Reed.

5. Let's talk about movies: Movies and allusions to them will play a great role in this story.

"Goldfinger" is the 1963 James-Bond-movie, starring Sean Connery and Gerd Fröbe. As it has been said, the song has been performed by Shirley Bassey.

"Somewhere over the rainbow" is a song from the movie "The Wizard of Oz", starring and performance of the song by Judy Garland. In one of my sources about gay lifestyle in New York, I read that Judy Garland had been an idol especially for "queens" in this time. As strange as it seem, the Stonewell Riot in 1969 was connected to her suicide a few days before.