From: "John Shearen" <zushi@cchono.com>

What happens when the greatest Devil Hunter of Japan
takes on the greatest evil of England?

Devil Hunter Yohko:
The Nocturne Chronicles

Volume One:
Spring-Heeled Jack

By John Shearen

Based on Mamano Hunter Yohko
Created by Toho/Madhouse

Forward: The Writing on the Wall....

    Hello.  A friend of mine mentioned that he was trying to
write a story about an argument that he heard.  He explained
that he caught by the hand of fate one night; walking down the
streets of Yokosuka, Japan (the city we live in), there was an
argument between two fairly drunken Japanese women on the
subject of murderers (hey, I realize that this is Japan that
I'm talking about, but unless you've ever lived in Yokosuka,
you won't understand--call it Nerima lite).  That normally
didn't catch his attention, until one of them got on the
subject of uncaught murderers, such as the Zodiac Killer in
Los Angeles, and of course, Jack the Ripper (there were others
that she'd mentioned, but at the moment, he wasn't totally
listening to them anymore).
    With that in mind he started to write this story.
Unfortunately, he was in the middle of writing _Tales Of
Shampoo_.  Since he did not get past the Prologue, he thought
that I would give it a chance.  So here goes, my first so
called published story.

    Many thanks to Stephen P. Ryder's _Casebook: Jack the
Ripper_ web page for his inspiration and exhaustive
research.  For those interested, it's at
*http://ripper.wildnet.co.uk.*

    This is written with an English accent due to the fact
that the story takes place in England.  All the characters
from Devil Hunter Yohko are copyright by Toho/Madhouse.  All
other characters are copyright by John Shearen
and Rob Barba.

Prologue:  He'll Do, He'll Never Be Done To

Eight little whores, with no hope of heaven,
Gladstone may save one, then there'll be seven.
Seven little whores beggin for a shilling,
One stays in Henage Court, then there's a killing.
Six little whores, glad to be alive,
One sidles up to Jack, then there are five.
Four and whore rhyme aright,
So do three and me,
I'll set the town alight
Ere there are two.
Two little whores, shivering with fright,
Seek a cosy doorway in the middle of the night.
Jack's knife flashes, then there's but one,
And the last one's the ripest for Jack's idea of fun.

    That was the inscription written in blood on the wall
in the Whitechapel district of the city.  Slumped against
that wall was the corpse of a young Japanese woman, a tourist
who'd undoubtedly come to see the sights of London.  Well,
she'd seen a bit more than she'd ever bargained for.  Now,
she'd never see anything else ever again.
    _Bloody hell,_ the detective present thought.  _That's the
eighth victim in the last three weeks.  We have a serial
killer on our hands; killing Japanese girls and using the
quotes of Jack the Ripper.  Truly odd, that: these girls are
tourists, not ladies of the night.  And for what purpose would
a sick, demented man use the name of Jack the Lad,
anyway?_  She took another drag from her cigarette, then tossed
the fag away.
    Tonight was turning out to be one of the worst nights
yet.  But, that was already expected for the Special Patrol of
New Scotland Yard.  The SpecPat, as the wags had labeled them,
were the equivalent to the Special Crimes units that the Yanks
had over in the States.  When first assigned to the job, she
saw no need for them; crime was nowhere near as violent or
common as it was in America.  Two years since, she was
convinced otherwise.  As always, she patted the gun in her
jacket for comfort.
    She was continuing in her investigation of the crime
scene, when somebody called to her.  "Rei?  How goes the
investigation?"
    Reiko Nakano, loyal subject of the Crown, born in
Manchester of Japanese immigrants, looked at her partner with
a look that told him the 26-year-old woman had seen far more
than she'd ever wanted to.  "Oh, fairly piss poor, Nigel.  I
just shan't wait to see the headlines in the Daily Mail
tomorrow.  `NSY Fails to Capture Ripper.'  We'll be made the
patsies once more."  Oh, the media had a field day with this.
>From the moment the London Times had screamed `Jack the
Ripper Returns?' the situation had become a feeding frenzy.
Even the usually staid BBC had gotten in to the act.
    Her partner, Nigel Cummins, placed his hand on her
shoulder.  "Don't worry, Rei me lassie.  We'll catch him yet,
and not even the finest barrister in the Kingdom shall save
him."  He looked at her with his dusky brown eyes as he ran
his fingers through his strawberry blonde hair.
    Looking back at him, Rei knew that was a sign that his
end came up fruitless.  "No witnesses again, eh?"
    "Not a one, Rei.  No one would speak up in any event.
They're all afraid of retribution by Spring-Heeled Jack."  He
motioned to the medics to transport the body to the morgue.
"Well, let's finish here.  I wish to get back and file my
report; then I have to go home and be comforted by some of
Emma's wonderful supper."  He thought for a second, then
offered, "Would you care to join us?"
     Rei smiled as always when he said that.  Nigel's wife's
cooking skills were legendary; no one could make a Shepherd's
Pie quite like she could.  It was just as well that she and
Emma were good friends, as well.  Now, if Emma would only stop
attempting to match make for Rei, things would be quite grand,
indeed.  "I would be honored, guv'nor."  She curtsied in her
sense of humor, and Nigel did a Japanese-style bow.  They
chuckled softly, then returned to their work.  It would be a
long night, and if they didn't complete what was at hand, it
would only get longer.

Chapter One: A New Horror

Two days later:
     Spring-Heeled Jack winks an eye; he'd spotted his next
target.  The young lady stepped out of the carriage and walked
three blocks to her flat that she had rented while she visited
friends.  Her soft-soled sandals barely made a sound as she
walked along the cobble stone walk.  She didn't notice that
she was being followed.  Whenever the dark haired girl turned
and looked behind her, Jack quickly hid in a doorway.  Umi was
in such a good mood that she wasn't paying attention to where
she was going.  When she realized that she made a wrong turn,
it was too late.  Jack was there and the next moment, she
dropped to the ground without uttering a sound.  Jack laughed
as he wiped the blade clean.  The sound was a combination of
the Joker, Jack Nicholson and Dr. Frankenstein.  Several
people near by had chills running down their spines as the
sound reached them.  A bobby started blowing his whistle as he
heard the wicked laugh.

                                 ==|-------

     Rei looked at the crime scene and read the inscription
written in the dead girl's blood.

 Here lies number ten.
 Fair but far from maiden.
 The edge was mine once again.
 Laughter may frighten little girls and boys.
 This is but one of Jack's tricky toys.

    From the look of things, this was not a copycat.  Since
the last murder two weeks ago, Rei studied as much of Jack the
Ripper from the archives in NSY.  Either someone was playing
Jack or he had returned from the grave.  All the cases were
still technically open since they never caught him but had not
been touched in the last hundred years save that of
criminologists, researchers, and Ripper enthusiasts--the
so-termed "ripperologists".  Between her and Nigel, they were
being chewed out every morning that they had the case.  _If I
ever catch the sick bastard, he is going to pay dearly for
this,_ she thought as her partner sidled up to her.
    "Well, looks like the chap did it again.  I wonder how
many have to end up this way before Tokyo tells their people
not to come here?" he asked as he placed his right hand on her
shoulder.
    Her reply was a shrug.  "Who knows, Nigel.  I just want
to go back to bed and wish this was just a terrible dream."
Running her hand through her hair, she added, "I want to catch
the arse that is doing this."  Anger ran through her body as
she tried to keep calm.  "I know that NSY is one of the best,
but if we don't find the bloody bastard soon, I might have to
call in a few markers I have scattered about."
     Changing to a lighter subject, Rei asked, "What was on
your table tonight?"
     "You should have given us a ring.  Emma made her special
Beef Wellington.  She did mention a young fellow you might be
interested in--supposedly he just started working in the mail-
room last month.  She wanted me to ask you to join us on
Saturday if you haven't made plans."
    "Darn, that is the day I have to wash my hair."  Together
they laughed as the medics took the body away.  "I am going
home to think this out.  See you anon, Nigel," Rei said as she
walked to her car.
    Nigel watched as his partner left.  He felt closer to her
in four years than he did with his previous partner of seven.
As he drove home, he thought that if he hadn't married Emma
seven years ago, he would have liked to be with Rei.  Life
plays weird games on people.

                                ==|-------

    Spring Heeled Jack watched the two inspectors from a dark
doorway down the street.  He figured that prostitutes were an
old game.  Now since London had attracted young foreigners, he
would change his victims.  As they drove off, Jack headed back
to his flat across the Thames.  _Life is good to those who think
about what he would do tomorrow,_ he thought as he walked along
the river.  London was his favorite town--nothing was ever dull
around foggy, dreary old London.  The fog was the greatest a
sset to him, his only friend and ally to be counted upon.
Normally, he would follow his prey for a few days and then
strike on a foggy night.  This time, he was very lucky.  The
girl almost had a chance to scream before he slashed.

                                ==|-------

    Back at her flat, Rei fixed herself a pot of herbal tea
and sat down in front of her notes.  She knew every word on
each page, a result of one too many damn nights on this case.
Still not satisfied, she read them again, this time adding the
newer notes.  In the back of her mind, she knew who was behind
these killings but did not want to believe them.  Too bad
Sherlock Holmes wasn't around--she could use a bit of his help
about now.  Pushing her notes to one side, she picked up the
receiver and placed a call.
    "Operator, I would like to make an overseas call to the
States," she stated when the voice on the other end finished.
"The number is 612-555-9162....  Yes I'll hold."
    "Hello," a deep voice said.

                                ==|-------

    "I have an overseas call from London," the operator said.
    "By all means."
    "John, I could use some of your wizardy," Rei said.
    "I heard about the spot NSY is in, but I didn't know you
were involved," John Hancock said.  The two of them spent two
years in the St. Paul, Minnesota Police Academy, the benefit
of an INTERPOL exchange program.  Rei eventually returned to
London, while he remained in St. Paul.  During those two years,
they were more than friends.  Neither of them wanted to leave
the other but didn't want to hinder their careers.  So now
they called whenever they got the chance.
    "I am up to m' neck.  If the chief isn't on my back,
it's the newsies."  For the next thirty minutes, Rei passed all
the info she had along with a few wild hairs.  Just talking to
him brought back fond memories.  "Have you settled down yet?"
    "I have found a wonderful job here.  There is so much
that I want to tell you but there isn't enough time in a day.
All I can say is that Liz, Tom, who's almost four and Marcy who
just turned two, are doing fine.  Tell you what beautiful, let
me check a few things here and I'll call you in a couple of
days."

                                ==|-------

    "Thanks John," she said as she replaced the receiver.
"Damnable girl, if you talked any longer, you wouldn't be able
to pay the bill," she exclaimed aloud as she stood up.  Before
going to bed, Rei set her clock for five am.

                                ==|-------

    Nigel poured himself a double brandy and sat staring at
a reproduced Rembrandt.  He was so lost in space that he did
not realize that his wife sat on the arm of his chair.  _How
many more will there be before he is stopped?  Every time he
strikes, more than the victim gets hurt._
    Emma ran her slender hand through his fine strawberry
blonde hair.  Facing her, he smiled as if he wanted to leave
the world behind.  "What is the matter?" she asked.  She knew
that SpecPat was not an easy job, but one he wouldn't give up
easily.  During the hardest cases, he always drank a double
when he needed to think.
    "There is a crazy bastard out there that is imitating
one of history's worst murderers.  We don't know when he
will strike next.  But, instead of ladies of the night, he's
picking on Japanese tourists.  Now I have to persuade the
Chief to talk to the Minister of Justice."  Setting his
snifter down, he wrapped his arm around her slender waist and
pulled her into his lap.
    "What kind of wicked thoughts are going through your
head, Mr. Cummins?" she asked with a lusty tone.
    Kissing her on the lips, he answered, "Just what any
husband thinks about doing with his wife, Mrs. Cummins."
Taking her in his arms, he stood up and carried her to the
bedroom.

                                ==|-------

    The next morning, Rei was at her desk as Nigel walked
in.  From where he stood, he could tell that his partner did
not get enough sleep.  Instead of her usual business type
outfits, she was dressed in a pair of denims and a pullover.
Her clothes stated that today she was going to do a lot of
legwork.  Nigel was not planning on leaving the office at
all until quitting time.
    "Nakano, Cummins," a strong voice called, "In my
office."  Both looked at each other and instantly regretted
coming to work.  Neither of them wanted to be called into the
OFFICE.
    Together, they walked in and sat across from the CHIEF.
>From his outward appearance, a person could not tell his age.
Being close to fifty-five, he looked more like forty.  Dressed
in a double-breasted twill brown suit with a white shirt and a
multi striped tie, he looked comfortable being behind a desk,
the very epitome of the Saville Row stylist.  "Tell me the
status of the investigation?"
    "Sir, so far we have had nine Japanese tourists killed
in the last month.  There have been witnesses and very little
evidence to go on, except..." Rei paused.  In her heart she
didn't want to say what her mind had been telling her.


    George White sat and stared at the two across from him.
He knew that he intimidated his people and that they feared
him.  No matter what he did, he could not change that.
"Except what, Miss Nakano?"
    "Except that he acts like Jack the Ripper, chief," Nigel
answered.
    "I already knew that, Mr. Cummins.  I also know that he
made a mockery out of us back then and this fellow is trying
to make one out of us now.  What I don't understand is what
you are doing about it," George said quietly.
    "Sir, I called an old friend of mine last night, and he
said he will get back with me in a few days.  Hopefully, he
would provide us with some insight," Rei said.  "He's an
officer in the States with this kind of experience."
    "Good, that is what I wanted to hear."  Turning his
attention to her partner, "What about you?"
    Nigel blanched.  "If you don't mind me saying sir, I
suggest a word to the Ministry about limiting Japanese
tourists into England until he is caught."
    "Now that is something I *didn't* want to hear.  Luckily,
the House of Commons has already discussed it with their
Ambassador.  Even the Queen is strongly supporting that idea
herself."  Standing up, he walked around his desk and faced
them both, "What I suggest, is that you both take the next
three days off and come back on Friday ready to shed some
light on this matter."  They looked at him in surprise;
they'd expected three days of straight office work, instead.
He clarified, "I hate to have my crew so tied up in knots that
they don't think clearly."  Reaching over his oak desk, he
pushed a button on the phone.  "Maggie, I don't want to see Rei
and Nigel--" this was the first time he used their first names,
"--in the building until Friday."  Facing them, he added, "Now
get your arses out of here until then."  Thanking him, they
walked out of his office.  Rei picked up her notes before
leaving.  Nigel just walked out.
    "Since we have a few days off, why not stop over?" Nigel
suggested as the reached their cars.
    Turning to him, Rei responded, "Thanks, but no.  I am
going to my folk's cottage in Lancashire.  I need a break
from all of this.  I'll give you a ring when I return.  Thanks
for the offer though."
    "Any time luv," he stated as she climbed into her Opel.

                                ==|-------

    Rei stopped at her flat long enough to gather a few
belongings before leaving.  One thing that she missed over
the years was a good country drive.  The air smelled a lot
cleaner than in London.  Stopping at a petrol station for
fuel and food, she called Nigel.  "Nigel, I just thought of
something.  What if the perpetrator isn't a male?"
    Nigel facefaulted.  "I never thought about it that way
before.  Your question leads to more questions.  I might
have something useful upon your return."
    After hanging up, she paid her cheque and continued the
drive.  The rest of the trip was uneventful, except she had to
stop to allow a flock of sheep to cross the road.  Turning off
the main road, Rei drove down a gravel lane that was
surrounded with trees.
    Upon arriving, she sat looking at the cottage for a few
minutes.  Actually, a person couldn't call it a cottage.
Actually, it was a small mansion.  Five master size bedrooms,
six full baths, a swimming pool, guesthouse sitting on nine
acres of well-manicured grass.
    "Nice to see you again, m'lady."  Roger stated as he
opened her door.  Roger Smythe worked for Rei's family for over
forty years, a butler without peer and a virtual member of the
family.  His short brown hair was streaked with gray.  His
greenish blue eyes noticed that this was more than a vacation
for the young lady.
    "Thank you Roger, who else is here?" she asked.
    Taking her bag, he replied, "Well there is Susan in the
kitchen, Marcus out back cleaning the footpaths and Lisa
organizing the den.  If I am not mistaken, Susan is fixing
baked pheasant for dinner," he added as they walked inside.
    "Thank you Roger.  If you would be so kind please put my
bags in my old room for me.  I want to wander around and relax
a moment or two," Rei said as she stretched.
    "I'd be more than happy to, m'lady.  Should I tell Susan
to put another plate on the table?"
    "If you would.  It is good to be back," she said aloud.
    "It is good to have you here again," he remarked as he
carried her bags inside.
    Walking around to the back, Rei remembered all the good
times she had during the summers of her youth.  She used to run
and play all day in the gardens, making daisy chains and having
tea parties with her friends.  Kicking the light dusting of
snow with her feet, chasing away the snowflakes that fell.


    Marcus Wells had his back to her as he cleaned the snow
off the patio.  There were only four years difference between
Marcus and Rei, with Rei the younger.  Gray streaks could be
seen in his shoulder length medium dark brown hair.  Every time
he moved, his back muscles would bulge.  Overall he was a
handsome man; the only drawback was that he preferred men.
Still a few feet away, Rei asked, "How are you today Marcus?"
    Marcus was startled so badly; he dropped the shovel on
the ground.  Facing her, his bright blue eyes widened and a
smile crossed his thin lips.  "Fine, thank you.  How are you
doing?"
    "I have felt better," Rei replied.  "I feel like a stroll
around the grounds, and it is good to know that I have friends
who are here for me," Rei added as she started walking on the
cobble stone path.  Leaving him to his work, she headed to the
rose garden.


    With each step, she felt the pressure of the last two
weeks seep from her.  A light gentle breeze blew her thin raven
hair about her face as she entered the gardenhouse.  In the
spring and summer red, yellow, white and several mixtures of
the dainty, delicate flowers would fill the garden with sweet
scents.  Sitting down on the warm marble stone bench inside,
Rei let the smells relax her as she tried to forget the mess
she left behind.  Being lost in thought, she did not realize
that it started to snow once again.
    Absentmindedly, Rei started to hum one of the opening
songs from _Ranma1/2_.  It was the only anime she enjoyed from
Japan, but she wished that she could get the subtitled
version--trying to understand Americanisms could get confusing
at times.
    Leaving the hothouse, Rei headed back to the house,
noticing for the first time, that the sun moved an hour
westward.  Marcus was putting the shovel away, muttering, "I
guess I'll have to remove the snow in the morning again."
    "That won't be necessary Marcus," she said as she headed
into the house.  "After all, snow can be good for the soul."
To prove this, she picked up some, made a snowball, and lobbed
it at him, straight in the face.  She then darted into the
house before he could retaliate.


    Susan was still in the kitchen fixing dinner.  The last
time they met, Susan was still in Secondary school.  Five
years had not changed the young redhead.  Dressed in a pale
blue apron, Susan looked up from the chef's counter and smiled.
"You look like you could use a tot of the liquid," she said as
she wiped her hands on the apron.
    "I see you can still see through me," Rei said sunnily.
    "Lass, I always will.  There hasn't been that much
changed in the last several years.  I can still remember that
time you came here from college and you just broke up with
Daniel."  Rei winced at the memory.  "You know where it is
kept," she added as she started slicing tomatoes for dinner.
    Smiling to herself, Rei walked over to the liquor cabinet
and took out a bottle of Glenfiddich.  Pouring herself a double
over ice, she replaced the bottle and walked back into the
kitchen.  "Susan, I would like to talk to you about my latest
case."
    Susan looked up from the cutting board.  The expression
on her face gave Rei a cold empty feeling in her guts.  "There
is no way in the world that I want to talk about it.  I have
heard enough on BBC.  `Tis bad enough that the newsies are full
of the awful crimes in the city.  I shan't listen to what you
know.  The best thing is to forget about it until you have to
go back to London."  Susan began cutting up a cucumber and
completely ignored her friend.
    Dejectedly, Rei headed up to her room and drained her
glass.  For the last several years, her room had not changed.
Small stuffed animals were placed about the room.  Bright
yellow curtains hung by the windows.  Matching comforter and
throw pillows decorated the double size bed.  A picture of her
and John sat on the nightstand.  Somewhere a thrush warbled.
_If I keep myself at the cobbles, I shan't be able to solve this
case.  I hope Nigel and John can come up with something._  "Well
Rei, you might as well unpack," she said to herself out loud.
As she put her things away, she thought, _I wish my parents were
still alive.  I could talk about everything and they would
provide some insight or provide some reassurances.  Now, the
only ones I can rely on are John and Nigel._

                                ==|-------

    Nigel walked into his flat and dropped unceremoniously
into his favorite chair.  Kicking off his shoes, he started
cursing.  Never in his career had he been sent on vacation
while working on a case.  Nothing upset him more than not
being able to do his job.  Every day, Nigel looked forward to
going to work; to him, being on the SpecPat was working for the
Queen herself.  Life in NSY was good, better than being a bobby
out on the beat.  There was never a time that he felt
uncomfortable...until now.
    For the first time, Nigel felt uncomfortable.  Instead
of sitting in his flat, he would rather be either on the
streets or at his desk.
    Picking up the remote, he turned on the telly.  For the
first time in decades, he actually began watching daytime
television--mostly reruns of soaps or those odd American talk
shows.  Within the first five minutes of the program, he knew
what was happening and what would happen next.  Getting bored,
Nigel switched channels.  Finally getting disgusted, he shut
it off and headed out to the yard.  A robin greeted him as he
stepped outside.
    "Hello Robin," he began as he leaned against the overhang
to his home.  "Where is your mate?"  The bird chirped twice and
flew off.  Left alone again, Nigel paced back and forth trying
to figure out what went wrong.
    All of a sudden, a doorbell rang.  Nigel stopped in mid
stride to listen if it was for him.  Once again a doorbell rang.
Walking around to the front, he noticed a courier truck parked
in front of his house.  As he turned to his right, a young man
about twenty with his yellow hair tied into a ponytail.  "Are
you Nigel Cummins?"
    "Yes."
    "I have a letter for you," he said as he handed over the
letter.  "Please sign here," he added as he brought up the
signature board.  A quick scratch of a pen Nigel signed his
name and accepted the letter.
    Looking at the envelope, all that was written was Mr.
Nigel Cummins, 4435 Sudsby Lane, Eastwick.  The lettering was
type big and bold.  Walking back into the house, he opened it
as he sat.

            Mr. Cummins,
      I hop dat yu ar havin a farely good day.  I was figurin
dat yu might hav found me by now.  Mayhap yu dident see me as
I watched yu and yur pretty partener the day yu found dat
pretty yung Japnes girl.  Donet fret non, I will make shur yu
hav mor dan yu can handel.
      I best git goin.  Hav to find me a nuther pretty yung
Japnes girl.

      Spring Heel Jack

    Silently he cursed as he grabbed his coat and ran out of
his flat.  Jumping into his car, he floored the gas pedal and
spun the tyres as he took off.
    Within moments, he was inside NSY.  The Chief came out of
his office as Nigel came in.  Before anyone could say anything,
Nigel handed over the letter.  George White turned as pale as
his very name as he read the letter.
    "When did you get this?"
    "About fifteen minutes ago.  I was out in my yard when
the courier lorry pulled up," Nigel explained.
    "Are you telling me that you made it all the way from
your flat to here in fifteen minutes?"  George asked as he
realized how fast Nigel drove.
    "Sir, I know that I probably broke almost all the traffic
rules getting here this fast, but I figured that this was of
great import," Nigel stated before turning around and headed out
of the office.
    "Just where are you going?" George called after him.
 Facing his boss, Nigel answered, "I am going to get my
partner.  She asked me a question before she left and I am
ready to give her an answer.  So if you will excuse me sir, I
will be leaving."
    Getting up from behind his desk, George walked up to him
and replied, "Nigel, I know you two want to get this guy but
give it a few more days and let's see what rises up, ok?"
    Reluctantly, Nigel agreed.  _Damn him.  Doesn't he realize
how badly I want this arse dead?  *NO, I MEAN DEAD AS IN DEADER
THAN A DEAD DOORNAIL DEAD!*_  Nigel wanted to scream bloody murder
and was turning an interesting shade of red from his contained
fury.  Everyone that gave him a glance quickly turned their
attention elsewhere.


    Hours later, Nigel arrived back at his flat.  Emma was
sitting in front of the telly.  One look at him told her that
he had a very bad day.  This was the earliest he ever arrived
home from work.  Before she could say a word, Nigel kissed her
forehead and said; "I have been placed on three days leave."
He knew the next thing she would say; "Chief thought it best
if Rei and I took a couple of days off.  She called before
leaving for her family's retreat this morning.  She did agree
to come over this weekend, though."
    Taking his hand, Emma led him over to the sofa and gently
pushed him down.  "Nigel, whatever happens, I don't want to lose
you.  Please don't go off on an odd lark.  You are well aware
that you can tell me anything in the world.  But I have an
idea: since you have a few days, why don't we go see her?  I
know she could use the company
as well."
    Taking her hand, Nigel pulled his wife down into his lap.
"I knew there was a reason why I married you."  Looking in her
eyes, Nigel noticed that sparkle Emma had when he proposed to
her.  There was not a hint of sorrow or pity, just love.  Once
again, he felt like he did on his wedding day.  Kissing her on
the lips, they started to get frisky.  So much for dinner, they
thought as their clothes came off.

                                ==|-------

    Rei sat down at the table with Roger and Susan.  _I am
glad to be away from all of the pressure of the city.  Now I
know why my parents wanted to be here._  Rei said to herself as
she started eating.  During the entire meal, they talked about
her family, friends and would be suitors.  Not once was her job
mentioned.  For Roger and Susan, that was a relief.  They did
not want to hear anything more about the grizzly murders.  All
in all, the meal was one of the best she had in a long time.
To her, cooking wasn't all that it was cracked up to be--she
would rather eat out than fix a decent meal for herself.

                                ==|-------

    Meanwhile, somewhere in Whitechapel, a grin flashed in
the darkness.  The unnaturally thick fog would come soon, and
with that ethereal cold gray would come a flash of hot red.

Chapter Two: A Devil of a Time


    Somewhere across the planet, two girls were walking
across a school campus.  One was dressed in blue jeans and a
striped sweater.  The other was wearing a gray skirt and a
white blouse.  They were so engrossed in their conversation
that they did not realize that they were being followed.  If
they paid any attention, they would have noticed that the
young girl was busy scoping out the schoolyard.
    Suddenly, she stopped and let out a yelp.  The two
girls ahead of her turned around.
    "Azusa, what on earth are you doing here?" the girl with
the strange hairstyle asked.
    Rubbing her backside, Azusa replied, "I wanted to know
where you went to school, Yohko."  Running up to her friend,
she gave her a hug that almost squeezed the breath out of them.
    "Well, you better be getting home before mother finds you
missing, young lady," Yohko stated with a touch of sarcasm.
"We have to be in class in five minutes.  As it is, I am almost
flunking out of college.  I cannot afford to miss five minutes
of school.  We will talk when I get home."
    At first the youngest girl looked like she was going to
cry then changed her mind.  "Hai!  Mata ne," she said before
running off.
    "I wonder what that was about," Chikago Okagawa, Yohko's
best friend and Devil Hunter Business Manager said as they
headed to class.
    Yohko wondered the same thing.  Of all her classes,
criminology was her favorite.  Upon graduating, Yohko wanted to
be a Criminal Scientist.  Another one of her favorite classes
was psychology.  In addition, she also favored theological and
occult studies, courses that were wonderful for Devil Hunting
but had no actual bearing on say, real life.
    Chi followed her wherever Yohko went in case there was a
contract that needed to be filled.  To her, hunting devils was
a profit maker, since she didn't have to take any risks.  Risks
were left up to Yohko, Azusa, Ayako and the other Azusa, whose
name Chi could never remember.

                                ==|-------

    After arriving home from school, Azusa went up to her
room to study for her math test on Monday.  She was so wrapped
up in her studies that she didn't hear Yohko walk into the
room.  Sneaking up on her partner, she gently tapped the girl
on the shoulder.  All that could be heard in the neighborhood
was a blood-curdling scream that sent shivers down the
residents' backs.
    *"You scared the life out of me!"* Azusa yelled at her
friend and partner.
    Yohko could not help but burst out in a fit of laughter.
"I couldn't help it.  You had your nose in the book so far that
you didn't hear me call you to dinner," Yohko said when she
could breath again.  "You know how Grandmother is if we're late
for dinner."
    Azusa nodded and put her pencil down.  Together they
walked down to the dining table.
    "How was school?" Sayoko Mano asked as the girls sat.
"Did you find a boyfriend yet?"  Yohko's mother had an impish
gleam in her eye.  "You should be able to find at least one
good looking fellow at that school you go to."
    Yohko ignored her mother as usual.  Ever since she was
fifteen, her mother wanted her only child to experience the
joys of womanhood--preferably, as soon as possible.  _As usual,
she keeps asking the same question every day.  Sometimes, even
twice a day._
    "Daughter, you should let your daughter find out about
womanhood on her own.  It doesn't help her if you continue to
try to run her social life like the disaster you call your
own," Madoka Mano said as she retired from the table.
"Besides, she isn't like you...thank the kami.  I wanted you
to carry on the legacy of the family.  But NO, you had to go
out and start enjoying that pleasure earlier than you should.
At times you should have been like Yohko."
    Now was the time to make a strategic retreat, and as
soon as possible before the fisticuffs began.  Yohko and Azusa
headed to the den and hit the Control, Alt, Shift, and F12
keys on the keyboard simultaneously.  Immediately the floor
began to sink into the ground, becoming the elevator to the
Training Room of the Devil Hunters.  As they rode down the
elevator, they could hear the two adults going at it.
    "I still don't understand them," Azusa said as they
entered the training area.
    "I had to live with that longer than you did and I don't
understand it either," Yohko stated as she walked over to the
far wall.  Stepping into the sparring section of the room,
Yohko called forth her Soulsword.  "Feel like practicing our
katas?"


    Somewhere between the time they entered the basement and
the time they came up--a span of a few hours--the argument had
ended.  Each thanked the heavens that they did not have to hear
the whole thing.  On the way up to their room, the phone rang.
    "Moshi Moshi," Yohko said.
    "Yohko Mano irashaimasu ka?" a male voice asked.
    "Hai,"
    "Yohko-san, this is John Hampton."
    "John-san!" Yohko exclaimed.  "Long time no hear.  How
are you?"
    "Fine, thanks for asking.  I have a proposition for you."
    "Hai."
    "I have a friend in England that could use your help."
John explained the entire situation to her.  Every once in a
while she would ask a question and he would answer.  Two hours
of the question and answer session went by before he commented,
"So what do you think?"
    "Of course we'll go.  When do we leave?" Yohko asked.
    "Who?  Where?" Azusa asked, tugging on her friend's
sleeve.
    "How about tomorrow?"
    "Tomorrow?"
    "Is that too soon?"
    "No, that will be fine.  Sayonara, John-san."
    "Shuretsui shimasu."


    Yohko sighed as she hung up the phone.  Now, how to
explain this....
    *"Now tell me what that was all about!"* Azusa exclaimed
with frustration in her voice.  She could only understand a few
words her friend said.
    Taking her hand, Yohko headed up to their room.  Once
inside, she began.  "A friend of my grandmother's has a friend
that is having trouble.  He called and asked if I wanted to
help.  I agreed that you and I will go to England tomorrow."
    Azusa stared at her friend.  "Are you *BAKA?*"  Sitting on
her bed, she tried to comprehend what was just said.  "You want
me to go to England with you and I don't know any English.  You
have to be crazier than I thought!"  Getting up, she walked
over to the window and looked up at the half moon.  She had
watched some of the old American horror stories from the
thirties and forties.  Azusa wondered if there was anything
like them in England.  Lost in thought, she did not notice
Yohko get ready for bed.
    "Would you be so kind as to turn off the light?" Yohko
said as she snuggled up under her covers.  She had to think
about what she was going to tell her mother and grandmother.
Of the two, she knew her grandmother would understand.  But
what about mother?  _Should I tell Chi that we are going with-
out her?  Should I leave without telling her?_  Before she
figured out the answers, Yohko was sound asleep.


    Azusa turned off the light before getting undressed.
Sitting on her bed, she let her mind wander.  _When I thought
about being a Devil Hunter, I *never* thought it would come to
crazy things like this!  I like Yohko a lot, and I do not want
to let her down, but how can I tell her that I am afraid of
going?  What can I do?_
    Getting back up, she walked back to the window and looked
out.  What she saw shocked the young girl.  Standing in the
back yard was the First Devil Hunter herself, the Blessed
Ancestor, Haruka Mano.  The pale moonlight shining on the young
woman gave her a halo of pure lunar bliss; a fact not lost on
Azusa.  Furthermore, the light gave the woman a dark shadow,
further showing her to be of the light.  Walking out of the
room, Azusa headed to the back yard.  "I am honored to meet you,
honored ancestor," Azusa said as she bowed.
    "I am the one who is honored, Azusa," Haruka began.  "You
show the qualities that are required to become a Devil Hunter.
Maybe there is something I can do that will make you even better
than you are already."
    Azusa was tongue tied as the woman talked.  _What do you
say to a Legend?_
    "Before the two of you leave for England, come down to the
basement."  With that, the sigil of the Devil Hunters briefly
glowed on the ground beneath Haruka's feet, a magical circle.
An instant's flash, and Azusa was alone.
    _Now I have seen it all,_ Azusa thought as she headed back
into the house.
    _"No, you haven't,"_ a voice called out to her mind.  Still
confused, Azusa fell asleep.


    The first rays of sunshine woke Azusa.  Looking over at
her friend, sound asleep and in a ball, Azusa got up and headed
to the bath.  When she returned, she dressed in a pair of blue
cotton shorts and a light yellow top before waking up her
friend.  "Yohko-chan.  Yohko-chan.  *YOHKO-CHAN!!!*"
    The mound of blankets stirred.  "Huh?"
    "Time to get up," Azusa said as she deftly pulled back
the covers.  "We have to get ready.  Our plane leaves in seven
hours and we have to be at the airport in five."
    "What time is it?" the curled up form of Yohko asked.
    "Seven."
    "*Seven!*  Why on earth did you wake me up so early?"
    Rolling her eyes up at the ceiling, she replied, "Because
we have to prepare.  Besides, we have to be in the basement in
an hour."  Yohko opened her right eye and looked at her friend.
"Don't ask.  Just get up."
     Knowing that she'd lost, Yohko stretched out and opened
up both eyes.  "Did you know that there is a brown spot above
my bed?"
    "Don't be silly.  Of course I know it is there.  I was
sitting on my bed when you decided to toss your chocolate donut.
Of course you tossed it too hard and it hit, leaving behind some
of the icing.  You said you would clean it up, so I left it
alone.  If I knew you were not going to clean it up, I would
have," Azusa explained as Yohko planted both feet on the floor.
"Will you hurry up?"
    "What is so important?" Yohko asked as she gathered her
clothes.
    "You will find out soon enough," Azusa replied,
egnimatically.  Noticing her friend moving slowly, she said
sheepishly, "Please?"
    "Hai, hai.  Can't you give a person a chance to at least
wake up?"
    "Not if it is you.  If I left you alone after waking you
up, you would fall back to sleep, like you usually do."  Azusa
said as she headed down the stairs.
    Yohko swung her left leg off the bed, as her foot touched
the floor, she sat up.  _Just once, I would like to sleep late on
Saturday.  If Azusa didn't wake me, Chi would have,_ she said to
herself as she padded her way down the hall.  _Grandmother, there
have been times that I wish I was an ordinary girl instead of
being one of the Devil Hunters.  Why did you have to teach me?_
No matter what she tried to do, Yohko was stuck as a Devil
Hunter.
    Stepping out of the shower, she heard her hyper apprentice
calling from the bottom of the stairs.  "Yohko-chan, are you
finished?  Your breakfast is getting cold."
    "I am coming, Azusa-chan," Yohko replied as she opened the
door, adding, "Give me a minute to dress."  Once in her room,
Yohko dressed in a pair of jeans and a loose fitting tee.
Carefully, she braided her hair and slipped the stones over
her braids and formed her unique hairstyle.  After slipping on
a pair of gray socks, she joined Azusa in the kitchen.
    "What would I do without you, Azusa-chan?"
    Beaming with pride, Azusa looked at her mentor and
smiled.  "Oh, Yohko-chan, you're the best friend and mentor a
girl could have.  Our lives are tied to each other.  If I have
to do all your chores, then so be it."  Azusa looked so proud
to be sitting at the table with her friend and trainer.  "Hurry
up or we will be late," she cried as she looked at the clock.
    _I wonder what is so important?_  "Ok, I am ready."  Before
Yohko had a chance to stand up, Azusa pulled her up and quickly
headed to the den.  "Slow down, or I am going to get hurt."
    "Gomen, Yohko-chan."
    Yohko hit the key combo on the computer that lowered the
elevator down to the training room in the basement.
    Azusa let out a frustrating sigh.  "We're too late."


    "No, you are right on time," a soft feminine voice called
from behind them.  Both girls turned and Yohko stared at the
legendary Haruka Mano.
    Azusa ran up to her and gave her a hug.  "I was afraid
that we were too late.  Gomen," she said, her features showing
embarrassment.
    "Azusa-chan, there is nothing to be sorry for.  You
should be proud of what you have accomplished in the last four
years."  Turning her attention to the other, Haruka eyed her
closely.  "Yohko-chan, you have pleased me more than you will
ever know."
    "I...uh...where...uh...," Yohko was so tongue-tied she
didn't know where to begin.  Staring down at the floor, she
said, "Welcome to my home, Haruka-sama."
    "Yohko-chan," the woman said softly, "please sit and let
me tell you both why I am here."  Haruka waited until they
were seated.  "There is an evil force in England that I want
you two to end.  I have sensed its evil presence across time
and space, and each day it grows stronger still, yet I am not
the Devil Hunter of this time, and thus, cannot do anything
about it.  The Devil Hunters and exorcists of the Western
world are no longer as strong as they used to be, and are thus
unprepared to deal with something of this magnitude.  Therefore,
 it falls upon you to deal with it.  But before either of you
can do that, I must prepare you for that evil."  The two girls
sat there listening to every word.  "Yohko-chan, you are power-
ful but not enough; Azusa-chan you still need work.  All I can
offer is both of you is a little boost."
    Haruka stood and bade them to join her.  Taking their
hands, she started a soft quiet prayer.  The air around them
started to flicker and sent little sparks through them.  Neither
of them realized that their clothes changed, and their weapons
appeared.  Their soul weapons glowed brighter and felt lighter
than they did before.  Their dresses were no longer bright red
with gold piping.  Instead, they were extended to ankle length,
slits completely to the waists.  The trim of their new garments
were of gold, silver, and copper, and the Devil hunter sigil now
occupied a smaller position over their left breasts.  Under the
dresses, the two girls now wore black, form-fitting bodysuits.
Soft ankle boots replaced their short shoes.  A small, sash like
belt was now around their waists, with a satchel that held
weapons and spell wards.  All in all, their uniforms had changed
from the pseudo-Chinese styling to something that looked more
akin to a heavily armed Shinto priestess.
    When she finished, she let go of their hands and looked at
them.  "These are your new winter uniforms, ideal for the cold
in England.  For now, you can also use your regular uniforms as
well.  Since the evil there is stronger than what you are used
to, both sets of uniforms have been enchanted with extra spell
protection.  Now you are ready to be the greatest Devil hunters
in the world."  Before they could answer, Haruka faded into
nothingness.
    "I...uh...am...uh...," Yohko started to say.
    "I talked to her last night before going to bed.  I was
looking out the window when I saw her standing in the back
yard," Azusa stated as they took in their new outfits.


    Suddenly, they heard the elevator come down.  Neither of
them heard it go up.  "Where did you get those new dresses?"
Madoka asked.
    "Oh grandmother," Azusa joyfully answered, "Haruka-sama
was here.  She did this to us.  Don't we look awesome?"
    Madoka eyed the two Devil Hunters clinically.  "I take
it that you two are going on a trip?"
    Yohko stood there with her mouth hanging open and nodded
yes.  After a couple of seconds, she recovered and asked, "How
did you know?"
    "Woman's instincts for such things.  Besides, I have
talked to John-san yesterday.  He filled me in with the details
and I had him call back last night."  She turned around headed
back upstairs.  "You should change your outfits and get ready to
leave."
    Looking at each other, they agreed and changed back to
their street clothes.  Once back up on the main floor, they
headed up to their room and packed.  By the time they finished,
the taxi pulled up in front.  Saying goodbye to grandmother,
they walked out and climbed into the car.


    Before they could get six blocks, the stones in Yohko's
hair brightened.  _Hell, I can't even go anywhere before some-
thing pops up,_ Yohko thought as she had the driver stop.
    Standing on the street corner was a samurai.  The driver
could not believe his eyes.  The man looked like he walked off
of a movie set.  Yet, there was something quite different about
this samurai.  For starters, his eyes were two glowing embers
of flame.  Secondly, he seemed as though he were not totally
human under that armor.  Finally--and this was the big clue--he
was emitting an aura strong enough to power half the Kanto
plain.
    Yohko stepped out of the car, Azusa at her side.  *"You
have threatened an innocent pair of girls to miss their flight
to foreign lands and new horizons and endangered a cabdriver's
daily duties, as well."*  A vortex appeared around Yohko and
Azusa as they continued their chanting: *"Now all that remains
are women who will be late and extremely pissed off!"*  Their
clothes blasted off them, and were replaced by strands of
energy, which quickly formed into fabric, then clothing.  Moving
into a ready pose, she added, *"Prepare to face the 108th Devil
Hunter!"*  Forming the Yin-Yang symbol in front of her, she
completed her war cry, *"Yohko Mano!  Demon, your end is at hand!
Sword of my soul, appear!"*  Calling forth her soulsword, she
planted both feet shoulder width apart.
    *"And I, Azusa, Devil Hunter in Training,"* Azusa said as
she formed her soulspear.  Taking the same stance as her friend,
they faced off their opponent.
    The samurai stared at both of them before facing Yohko.
With calculated steps, the apparition advanced on the Devil
Hunter.  Drawing a long sword out of his scabbard, he drew
closer to Yohko.  With a quick swish of his sword, he cut
her dress above her breasts.  Jumping back, she revealed to the
driver that she was wearing pale blue panties.  As he swung
again, Azusa was there to parry the swing.
    Looking down at her dress, she fumed, *"Now you've done it!
I just had my dress mended two days ago!"*  With three lightning
fast swings, she had eliminated her opponent, each swing a fiery
blaze that slashed and burned with the intensity of a sun.
Yohko became a whirling dervish, moving with a speed that she'd
never moved at before.
    "Damn, this was too freaky."  Azusa stared at her friend.
She never saw Yohko make that kind of move before.  "C'mon,
Azusa, we better change back and get going or we will miss our
flight."  Azusa just followed her friend, still too dazed to
realize that they had shifted back to their regular clothes.
    "Ah...where...uh...did you learn to fight like that?" the
driver asked once they were moving again.
    "My grandmother taught me.  She was faster than I am when
she was my age, whereas I seem to be higher in the power
department," Yohko replied as she pulled out her compact and
reapplied her makeup.  Looking into the rearview mirror, she
could read his lips: _"Kiree na ashi."_  A smile flitted across
her face, a gesture of appreciation at his remark and a playful
flirtation.  Satisfied with her feminine charms, she turned to
Azusa.  "Hey, Azusa-chan.  Snap out of it."  All she got in
return was a blank stare.  Not wanting to spend the rest of
the trip from Yokohama to Narita in silence, Yohko gently
slapped Azusa.
    "What was that for?" Azusa asked as she touched her cheek
briefly.
    "Azusa no baka.  You were out of it.  I was worried,"
Yohko stated flatly.  "Thank you for your help Azusa-chan.  I
almost lost that one."
    "That is why I am here," Azusa said.  Leaning closer, she
whispered, "Where did you learn to move so fast?  I haven't seen
you move like that before."
    Puzzled, Yohko looked at her friend.  "I don't know what
you are talking about."
    "You took him out with three fast swings.  I could barely
keep up with your sword, it moved too fast.  Plus, I've never
seen you use that spell on your sword before."
    Yohko's response was a blank stare.  She was still
puzzled, with no clue as to what Azusa was talking about.
    From up front, the driver added, "She is right, you know.
I have seen my share of sword fights, but I've never seen
anyone swing so fast."  All Yohko could do was smile at him as
he continued driving.
    As they neared the Shinagawa district, both rings and
stones brightened the interior of the car.  "Don't tell me, you
want to stop and take care of this, right?" the driver asked as
he pulled over.  As the two reached for the door handles, he
briefly muttered to himself, "I'd better get a hell of a tip out
of this.  Or her phone number...."


    Without answering, the passengers got out and looked up
at the tower.  Somewhere in the area was at least one powerful
demon that they needed to face before continuing on their trip.
There was no rhyme or reason to this second attack--or the first,
for that matter.  It was as though they were being tested, or
though something was intentionally marshalling forces against
them.
    Facing each other, they nodded and headed in.  Calling out
in a loud voice, Yohko challenged whatever was lurking in the
shadows.  *"I am late for my flight as it is, now I have to take
care of you.  If I am delayed any longer, I will be really
pissed.  Show yourself."*  The two girls changed into their
outfits.  Somewhere along the line, Yohko's dress was repaired.
*"I, Yohko, the 108th Devil Hunter is here to destroy you."*
    *"And I, Azusa, Devil Hunter in training, am here, too."*
    They did not have to wait long.  Shortly after retrieving
their weapons, a tall mean looking apparition appeared in front
of them.  *"Ha, you are too puny and weak to do anything here.
Go back home and play with your little toys."*  It taunted before
turning its back on them.
    *"Just where do you think you are going?"* Yohko bellowed.
Her sword brightened as she advanced.  Sweat began to bead on
her forehead as the haunt turned and looked at her with his
dark red eyes.
    *"I am going where I want to go.  Come try and stop me."*
Without warning, Yohko found herself on the ground looking up
at Azusa.  Neither of them saw what hit her.  Azusa let out a
battle cry and advanced.  This time Yohko was amazed at the
speed and determination that Azusa showed against her opponent.
This battle took longer than the one Yohko faced.  No matter
how hard she tried, Yohko could not stand up.  Relenting, she
let her friend fight this battle on her own.
    Azusa slashed out with her soulspear and produced a gash
on its upper arm.  Before it could make a swing of its own, she
slashed downward and cut both shins.  As it attacked, Azusa
jumped over its head and landed behind it.  No matter how close
it tried to get to her, Azusa lashed out or jumped out of the
way.  There was no one other than Yohko to see her pale pink
panties as she jumped and twirled.
    Unlike Yohko, Azusa had taken almost an hour to defeat
her opponent.  When the fight ended, there wasn't even a
scratch on her.  Azusa walked over to Yohko and helped her up.
"How come you didn't help me?"
    "I would have liked to, but I couldn't move.  Something
was holding me back," Yohko replied as they walked out.
    "I was getting worried about you two," their driver said
as they climbed back in.
    Looking out the window, Yohko stated to no one in
particular, "I have a suspicion why I could not fight.  Someone
is testing both our skills."  Both passengers were lost in
thought as they continued their way to Narita.

                                ==|-------

    Somewhere in Tokyo, Chi was busy negotiating a contract
for Yohko with the president of Ashita Co LTD, the largest
manufacturer of jokes, magical and novelty items in Japan.  Chi
was sitting in the plushest chair she ever sat in.  On the
other side of the table sat Mr. Ito Baaba.  Both were dressed
for business.  Chi wore a light brown skirt and jacket over a
white blouse and he was wearing a dark blue suit, a white shirt
and a multi-striped tie.  "Sir, I know four people who do this
kind of thing all the time.  I am their publicist.  I am
willing to guarantee one hundred percent satisfaction or they
don't get paid.  What other group can say that?"
    "Young lady, I understand all that, the only question is,
can they handle such as the one that is plaguing this company?"
he asked as he looked across the table.
    Chi looked him directly into his eyes and answered.  "Sir,
they know what they are doing.  My associates, have been doing
this kind of work for the last six years."  Looking out the
large window, Chi wished she had brought Yohko along.
Unfortunately, Chi knew that she was still sleeping, as usual.
    Returning her attention back to the meeting, Ito agreed
to the contract.  Reaching inside her bag, Chi pulled out a
self-designed contract and passed it over for his signature.
Once it was signed, they stood and thanked each other before
Chi headed out.

                                ==|-------

    All of a sudden, the car stopped.  Yohko and Azusa looked
at each other then out the windshield.  Standing in the middle
of route three was another demon.  Opening the door, Yohko
huffed, *"I can't believe this.  I am on my way to the airport
and you have to show up.  I am getting tired of being delayed.
Prepare for your nonexistence, because Yohko, the 108th Dev--aw,
the hell with it."*  Yohko changed outfits again.
    Azusa looked at the eight-foot tall demon and said, *"Yeah,
what she said."*
    Taking their stance, the two girls faced their opponent.
The demon, a cross between Godzilla and King Kong, looked at
them and growled.  Neither of the fighters could understand
what it said.  As the girls drew forth their soul weapons, it
advanced on Azusa.  As it swung its massive paw, Azusa flipped
backwards out of the way.  Noticing its opponent wasn't there,
it became angry.
    Yohko, took the distraction as an opening, and started her
attack.  While Yohko attacked, Azusa came up on its blind side
and also attacked.  This one was stronger than the previous two,
and thus, much more deadly.  Both girls
were getting hit and thus had to resort to multiple evasive
maneuvers, flipping out of the way.
    The demon swung and connected, sending Yohko flying twenty
feet.  She hit the pavement with a loud thud.  Azusa cried out,
*"Yohko, are you ok?"*
    Hearing no reply, Azusa went berserk.  With rage embedded
 in her heart, she slashed and stabbed at the demon.  The demon
had a hard time trying to block all the attacks that Azusa
assaulted it with.  Yohko came to and was amazed at the
ferocious rage her partner showed.  Azusa neither offered nor
granted quarter to her opponent.  The traffic was backed up for
several kilometers in both directions.  Spectators were lined up
on the opposite side of the barrier separating the two lanes as
well as good distance behind them.  Yohko could hear a
helicopter flying around.  Looking up, she noticed a news crew
filming the fight, which was picked up internationally.  Shaking
off the landing, she joined her friend and continued the battle.
    Finally after forty-five minutes, the battle was over.
With the wisp of smoke, the demon disappeared.  Cheers
could be heard from all around them.  Shaking their heads, the
two girls jumped into the car and took off.  That was the first
battle they fought in a long time with spectators.  Normally,
there were no spectators around when they fought.  Neither
Yohko nor Azusa felt comfortable if an innocent bystander got
injured during their fights.  Luckily, the demon was not
prepared to deal with the two armed girls in front of him.  If
it happened to defeat them, it would have a field day on route
three.
    "Ah...Miss...ah..." the driver started to say.
    Yohko looked at him in the mirror and asked, "Yes?"
    "Ah...should you...ah...change?" he stammered.
    "Oh, we'll do that later.  Right now we need to get to
the airport as quickly as we can.  We are late as it is and I
don't want to miss our flight," Yohko answered.
    Azusa looked out her side and watched the buildings slide
past.  She didn't want to think about anything.  To her, this
was a waste of time.  More than anything, she wanted to go home
and forget about this whole thing.  _We usually don't fight
three demons in one day.  Why now?_  As she sat there, a tear
came from her eye.
    Yohko noticed the solemn change in her friend.  Reaching
over, she pulled Azusa closer.  When her arms were wrapped
around her friend, Azusa started crying in earnest.  "Don't
cry Azusa.  Everything will be fine once we get on the plane."
    Azusa wiped her eyes and looked up at her best friend.
"Something isn't right Yohko-chan.  I can feel an evil presence
in the world.  I cannot explain how I know, but it is out there
somewhere."
    "I know.  I can tell the same thing.  I hope Ayako, Azusa,
and Chi can handle whatever pops up here."  Yohko said softly
as she stroked her friend's hair.  "Just try and relax.  We
should be there in a few minutes."  _I hope we haven't missed our
flight._  "Could you find a quiet spot for us to change?  I don't
want us to show up at the airport looking like this," she asked
the driver.
    Nodding, the driver took the next off ramp and drove for
another kilometer before pulling in front of a vacant lot with
a high fence.  "This should provide you with the necessary
coverage for your change."
    "Domo arigato."  Yohko said as she stepped out.  Azusa
followed a second later.  Together, the girls walked up to the
gate and Azusa opened the folding gate.
    Once the gate was closed again, the two walked out into
the middle of the field and prepared to shift back into their
street clothes.  Just as they were about to start, Yohko's
beads started to glow.
    *"Not again,"* Yohko cried.
    Azusa simply drew forth her soulspear.
    They didn't have to wait long.  From the ground came
forth the largest demon they encountered.  This one looked like
Frankenstein's monster and the Mummy combined.  Looking at them,
it bellowed, *"So, you are the ones that destroyed my comrades.
We were told of your journey, children, and told to stop it; I
will, if only for the pleasure of violating your corpses and
gnawing on your bones.  I am going to destroy you!"*  From
nowhere, the demon pulled out a long double handed broadsword.
The length of the sword was longer than Azusa's soulspear.  With
a mighty swing, it impacted and shattered the ground where the
Devil Hunters stood.  Fortunately both girls leapt backwards to
safety.
    Standing up, they dusted themselves off and faced their
enemy.  For the first twenty minutes, neither of them could get
into a position for victory.  Each would try to attack, only to
be propelled back.  Azusa took more than her share of hits.  One
part of her white bandanna had been cut away along with a few
strands of hair.  Yohko scored a small hit on its upper arm,
while she had taken a cut diagonally across the back.  Neither
of the hits were life threatening.  More than anything, they
were mere scratches that enticed them to fight all the more.
    After they separated for an nth time, Yohko and Azusa sat
back.  Inexplicably, Yohko bounded up and over the demon while
slamming the point of her sword down into its head.  As she
landed, the demon let out a roar that shook the entire area and
turned to attack.  Azusa, sensing trouble for her friend, ran
the shaft of her soulspear into the body of the demon.  Yohko
was a mere meter away from the point as it came out the front
side.  With a puff of smoke, the demon vanished, dropping both
weapons to the ground.  Yohko retrieved her sword and handed
Azusa hers.
    "That was close.  If you forced it in any further, you
would have stuck me as well," Yohko said as she smiled.
    Azusa looked at her with wide eyes.  "Gomen na sai.  I
could have seriously hurt you."
      "But you didn't and I'm okay.  Don't worry about it,"
Yohko assured her assistant.  "Good job.  Come on, we better
change and get to the airport.  We are late as it is."  Yohko
hugged her friend.  They then changed outfits and Yohko led
the way out of the gate and into the car.
    "I guess you had another encounter," the driver asked as
they closed their doors.
    "Sure did.  This one was tougher than the last three,"
Yohko said as the car pulled away.  "How are we doing for time?"
    "Sorry miss, but your flight left twenty minutes ago."
 Yohko could feel the sorrow in his voice.  "Might as well
take us there anyway.  We still might be able to get a flight
to England."

Chapter Three: Here and There

    Upon arriving at the airport, the driver got out and
opened the door for his passengers.  "Here you are.  I'll bring
your bags in for you."
    "Domo arigato," Yohko said as they walked into the airport.
When they approached the ticket counter, she said, "My name is
Yohko Mano and my friend Azusa Kanzaki.  We were scheduled for a
flight to Heathrow.  Is there another flight?"
    The ticket agent looked like she just started her shift.
Her hair was put up in a ponytail that barely hung past her
shoulder blades.  Her uniform was still wrinkle free and her
eyes sparkled.  "Your flight has not left yet."
    "I don't understand," Azusa stated.  "We were told that
our flight was to leave at two.  It is now three."
     This time the ticket agent looked at them perplexed.
"Your flight was originally scheduled to leave at two but the
pilot and the airport have been instructed not to leave until
you showed up."  Both girls facefaulted.
     By this time, the driver arrived with their bags.  Both
girls paused long enough to thank the driver and walk off,
leaving the driver with pleasant fantasies of a sexy sword-
wielding maiden that would appear in his dreams for many a
night to come.


    "If you would follow me please, I'll take you to your
plane."  The ticket agent stepped out from behind the counter
and headed down the walkway.  Pulling out a card, she let them
past the departure fee machine.  As they walked past, several
passengers gave them a dirty look.  A few of them cursed.
    They walked down one ramp and found a blue Boeing 747
waiting.  Standing by the door was an American woman about
thirty years old dressed in a medium blue skirt, white blouse
and a matching medium blue jacket.  "Konnichi wa, ogenki desu
ka?  My name is Lilly.  I will be your attendant on this flight.
Welcome aboard."
    Both girls walked onboard and the first thing they saw
was that the interior wasn't like any other aircraft they had
seen.  There were only five seats and a small table on the left
side.  _This must be very important to have a plane this size
come all the way to Tokyo for just the two of us,_ Yohko thought
as she found a seat.
    "Yohko," Azusa began as she sat next to her friend, "this
must be very important.  I didn't know he was going to have a
plane just for us.  Did you?"
    Without turning, Yohko replied, "I wasn't expecting this
either."
    "This is the captain," a deep voice came over the intercom.
"We will be taking off in another fifteen minutes.  Please sit
back and enjoy the ride.  Your host was unable to join you;
instead he has provided a video for you.  As soon as we are
airborne I will play it."

                                ==|-------

    Somewhere across the planet, a phone rang.
    "Hello," Rei said as she picked up the receiver.
    "Rei, I have a couple of friends on their way to help you
with your problem," John Hampton said.
    "John, where are your friends coming from?"
    "They are coming from Japan and should be arriving around
noon tomorrow.  By the way, one is twenty and the other is
eighteen.  They will be staying at the London Ritz."
    "Aren't they a bit young, John?"
    "Nope.  They are the best in Japan.  In fact, they are
actually Devil Hunters."
     Rei sputtered her comment. "De-de-Devil *WHAT?!?!?*"
    "Devil Hunters.  In England, you call them exorcists,
while we in the States usually refer to them as Ghostbusters.
In any case, I have known them for years.  Yohko and Azusa
should have no problem dealing with your problem.  Just make
sure they are treated with your British hospitality and every-
thing will be ok."
    "Thanks guv'nor," she commented sarcastically.
    "You're welcome luv.  Call me when this is problem is
settled."
    "Sure will John.  Thanks again," Rei said as she hung up
the phone.  _Damn, John had to call on Saturday when the office
is closed.  Oh bloody hell, might as well call *Chief* and let
him know what to expect.  Then I should call Nigel._
    Picking up the phone again, she called her boss.  "Chief,
I have some good news for you."  She passed the information and
waited for his reply.
    "Bloody hell, Rei," her boss said as he hung up.
 Next, she called her partner and passed everything to him.
   "Thanks luv, I guess we owe your friend one.  See you on Monday."
She could tell from the sound of his voice that while he trusted
her completely, this was something a little beyond the pale.
    "Don't you want to meet our allies?"
    He sighed audibly.  "C'mon luv, I will leave that up with
you.  Then again, maybe you should let them rest until Monday.
Anyway, I'll see you at the office.  Cheers," Nigel said as he
hung up.
    Rei got up and walked over to the wet bar and poured her-
self a Glennfiddich and Bailey's.  In one gulp, she drained her
glass and poured herself another.
    "Careful luv, you can't afford to get plastered y'know,"
Susan commented as she watched her friend from across the room.
    "Bloody hell!  Now I will have to watch them as well as
try to solve this case," Rei stated dejectedly.
    "Now wait one minute luv.  I heard what you told them.
I gather that they can look out for themselves.  If anything,
all they need is someone they can call a friend."

                                ==|-------

    Chi knocked on Yohko's front door.  Madoka opened the door.
"Hello Chikago-chan.  What can I do for you?"
    "Actually, I am here to see Yohko."
    "I'm sorry, Chikago-chan, but they're not home.  They're
on their way to England.  They left this morning."
    "Nani?" Chi said as her eyes popped open.
    "Hai.  I am not sure when they will be returning."
    "Domo arigato, Mano-sama," Chi said as she walked away.
_Then again, there is always Ayako and Azusa whats-er-name.
Maybe they can handle the job since they are Devil Hunters
themselves._


    *"You what?"* Ayako screamed.  She could not believe her
ears.  First off, she could not understand why her cousin would
leave without telling her where she was going.  "I know you are
Yohko's so-called manager but now you want to be ours?"
    "Ayako, I am in a bind.  Please help me.  We are going to
make a fortune," Chi pleaded.
    "This is going against my better judgement, Chi.  We will
accept the contract with the exception that you get only five
percent instead of your usual ten you get from Yohko."
    "Done.  Domo arigato, Ayako."  The two girls bowed and
shook hands before going into a fit of laughter.  They were
still laughing when Azusa Nibano walked in.
    "What'd I miss?" Azusa-ni asked.
    "Business Economics," Ayako replied, her voice full of
mirth.

                                ==|-------

    Somewhere over the Pacific Ocean, two girls sat watching
the movie screen.  "Sorry I could not be there to meet you when
you boarded the Wizard I.  The flight path will take you to
Minneapolis before heading over to London.  I will meet both of
you at the airport and explain everything.  In the meantime,
enjoy the flight."
    "Well he was nice, wasn't he?" Azusa asked.
    "Yes.  John was always nice.  I remember when the first
time we met; he gave me the biggest piece of candy I ever saw.
Luckily mother wasn't there.  If she was, I would not have been
allowed to eat it."
    Lilly walked up to them after the video ended.  "Is there
anything you would like?"
    "Something to eat," Yohko said.
    "Me too," Azusa chimed in.  When the stewardess walked
away, Azusa faced Yohko and added, "I hope that we are not
getting over our heads on this trip."
    "I agree totally, Azusa-chan.  So far, we have had a
rough time getting this far.  I sort of wished we had stayed
home instead of travelling half way around the world."  Looking
out the window, Yohko absently said, "Maybe this is why we have
been training so hard for.  Then again, maybe we are still not
qualified."  Facing her partner, she added, "You know Azusa,
when we are finished with this escapade, you will be a full-
fledged Devil Hunter.  Your training is almost complete."
    "Yohko-chan, I don't want to be a Devil Hunter alone.  I
want to be with you," Azusa commented.  "If I go back to
Komoridani valley, my talents will be wasted.  It's better that
I stay in Yokohama with you."
    Before Yohko could say anything, Lilly came back with two
cheeseburgers, fries and a strawberry milkshake for both of
them.  "Compliments of John Hampton.  Enjoy your meal," Lilly
said as she placed the food in front of the only passengers.
    Picking up a fry, Yohko looked at it before popping it in
her mouth.  "I would like nothing better than having you remain
as my partner.  Maybe there will be a way for us to remain a
team.  I just don't know.  I guess I will have to ask grand-
mother when we return home.  From what I have been told, there
has never been a team of two fully qualified Devil Hunters.  Of
course, there are always teams of a qualified Devil Hunter and
a student, though."
    Azusa thought about what was said and attacked her meal
with gusto.  In only a few minutes, she had devoured the entire
meal while Yohko was still eating her first cheeseburger.  "Are
you going to eat your fries?"
    "Of course I am, Azusa.  If you are still hungry, why
don't you ask for some more."
    Reaching up, Azusa punched the call button.  A few
moments later Lilly arrived.  "How can I help you?"
    "I would like another cheeseburger and a milkshake,"
Azusa answered.
    "Anything for you Miss?"  Yohko shook her head and Lilly
departed.  Two minutes later, she returned with the second
helping.  "Enjoy," was all she said as she walked away.


    "May I have your attention please," the pilot's voice
came over the speakers.  "Off to our left, you can see the
Aleutian Islands of Alaska.  We should be landing in Los
Angeles about noon."
    Both girls turned and looked out the window.  Just as
Yohko finished her meal, Azusa belched.  "Azusa, that is
disgusting," Yohko exclaimed.
    "But it was good," she replied as she yawned.
    "Real Devil Hunters don't do things like that.  It's
unlady-like," Yohko said, indignant.
    Azusa laughed.  "Yohko, I'm eighteen.  I think I can
figure out how a lady's supposed to act.  Besides, do you
really think running around in tight clothing carrying weapons
that could potentially get us arrested is ladylike either?"
    Yohko had no response.
    Azusa continued.  "If you will excuse me, I think I'll
take a nap."  Getting up, she added, "You should too."  Without
waiting for a reply, Azusa headed toward the back of the plane
and into one of the empty rows.  Twenty minutes of tossing and
turning, Azusa finally fell asleep.


    Watching her friend walk away, Yohko thought, _I wonder
what I would do without her.  For the last four years, we did
almost everything together.  I don't even think we went any-
where without the other.  Oh, Azusa, I swear I'll think of
something to keep us together._  A tear rolled down her right
cheek.  Quietly, Yohko wept.  Lilly noticed the little tell
tale signs of someone crying.  Instead of doing her motherly
thing, she left the young lady alone.

                                ==|-------

    Two young ladies walked into the Ashita Co LTD building.
A rather slim looking man dressed in blue met them.  "Konnichiwa,
may I help you?"
    "Konnichiwa, we are here to see Baaba-san.  He is
expecting us," Ayako said.
    "One moment please," he said as he picked up the receiver.
"Sir, there are two young ladies here to see you...All right,
I'll send them up."  After replacing the receiver, he turned to
the visitors and added, "He is in his office.  Take the elevator
up to the top floor and take a left.  You can't miss it."
    "Domo arigato," Ayako said as they headed to the elevator.
Azusa-ni punched the call button as they stood there waiting for
the car to arrive.  With a quiet ping, the doors opened
revealing a fancy plush car.  The walls were paneled in dark
mahogany with a light brown carpet.  Standing next to the
buttons was a young lady dressed in a rich burgundy colored
outfit.
    "Which floor please?" she said as they entered the car.
    "Top floor," Ayako stated politely.  The car attendant
pushed the appropriate button and faced the front.  The car rode
smoothly and quietly as it climbed the fifteen floors.  Before
they realized, they had reached the top.
    "Have a nice day," she said as her passengers stepped out.
_I wonder what they want with the boss.  I haven't seen them
before.  Then again, it is none of my business._
    The hall leading to their destination was just as
impressive as the elevator.  Sitting behind a huge desk was
another young lady dressed in burgundy.  "Konnichi wa."
    "Konnichiwa.  We are here to see Baaba-san," Ayako said.
    "Chotto omachi okudasai," the secretary said as she pushed
the call button on the intercom.  "Sir, your visitors are here."
    "Send them in," a deep voice replied.
    "Hai."  Looking up, she added, "Go right in."
    "Domo," Azusa-ni stated.  Together, the visitors walked
over to a set of double mahogany doors.  Just as Ayako reached
for the door handle, the door opened.  Standing on the other
side was a sharp dressed man in his late forties.  Bowing to
them, he let them enter before closing the door.
    "Let me begin by stating for the record, that I think you
both are a bit young for the job," Ito Baaba began as he sat
behind his solid oak desk.  "I have been informed that you two
have been doing this kind of work for years."
    "Hai, we have been fighting demons for over four years now.
Could you tell us where your demon is causing problems?" Ayako
said.
    "Are you always this direct?" he asked as he leaned back.
    "Hai.  I have found that it is easier to be direct than
trying to beat around the bush when it comes to business."  Ito
nodded his head remembering how direct Chi was.  "Besides, if we
sit here all day talking about the weather, your problem will
around all that much longer.  From what Chi told us, your
problem is causing a mess with your business, so the sooner we
solve your problem, your business will get back to normal."
    "How true.  How true," Ito said quietly.  Reaching across
the desk, he picked up the phone and dialed a short number.
"Deibu-san, could you come up to the office for a minute.  I
have a project for you."  After a short pause, he added, "Good.
See you in five minutes."  Turning his attention back to his
guests, he continued.  "Deibu-san will show you where my problem
is.  As far as I can tell, no one goes anywhere near that area,
so you should not have any interruptions."
    "Domo arigato," Ayako stated firmly.  She did not like any
interruptions.  Especially like the one she encountered while
trying to beat up her cousin three years ago.  Since then, the
two got along wonderfully, having been on excellent terms for
the last three years.  Things can change in one year as she
found out when she tried to take on her cousin again.  Instead
of fighting, all four girls got along so well that the only ones
fighting were their grandmothers.  No matter what they said, the
grandmothers would not listen.
    The double doors opened and a slightly balding middle aged
man walked in.  Azusa noticed that he had a potbelly and that he
could use a good workout.  "Ah Deibu-san, here are the two young
ladies that will take care of our problem."
    "Yes sir," Deibu-san said in a strained voice.
    "Now don't go talking too much.  You know what the doctor
said.  No talking for at least three days.  I know I can't stop
you from talking, at least humor me while I am around."  Ito-san
said as Deibu-san nodded.  "Now please show them the work area."
    Deibu-san bowed to his boss and friend before giving the
two girls his attention.  "This way please."  All three walked
out the door and down the hall to the elevator.  With a soft
ping the doors opened.  "Main floor please, Miyuki."
    "Hai Deibu-san," the attendant said as she pushed the
button.  _So these must be the ones that are supposed to get rid
of the demon.  I hope they can do it._


    As the doors opened once again, Deibu led them down to the
left and out onto one of the loading docks.  They climbed into a
golf cart looking vehicle and they headed south toward the
second largest building in the compound.  "I should warn you two.
>From what I have heard, this so called demon is not all that
friendly."
    "Deibu-san, no demon is friendly.  I have been fighting
them for a long time now and I have forgotten how many I sent
back to where they came from.  All we ask is that you drop us
off and let us enter the building alone.  When we are done, we
will find our way back."
    "Ok, I can deal with that," Deibu-san said, straining his
voice all the more.
    _I can't believe how scared he is,_ Azusa-ni thought as they
arrived at the building.
    When the girls entered, Their escort turned and headed
back the way they came.  *"Worthless, foul monster,"* Ayako
bellowed as she shifted into her black and gold outfit, *"your
end is come.  Over the ages, we have fought our struggles
against you and your kind, sending them back to the nether
regions where they belong!"*  Ayako's clothing blasted off her
body as thorn-like tendrils of energy raced up her body changing
into silken fabric.  *"So as it has been done before, so it shall
be done with you, for I, Ayako, Devil Hunter is here to send you
back!"*
    *"And I, Azusa, am here as well."*
 Their call was answered by an unearthly howl.  A few
heartbeats later, a tall three-horned ugly beast appeared.  *"So
you think you can get rid of me?  How pathetic.  For your
information, I like it here and I am not giving up without a
fight, children!"* it taunted.
    *"Prepare for your doom.  Whip of distraction, arise!"*
Ayako cried as she summoned her weapon.  A two-pronged metal
fork attached to a whip of some unknown material appeared in
her hand.  Azusa changed into her same colored outfit and
stood next to her friend holding onto a soulspear.
    The three combatants stood facing each other for five
minutes.  Neither one wanted to make the first move.  All of a
sudden, all three moved at once.  Ayako snagged her chain on one
horn while Azusa tried to attack from the air.  Unfortunately,
the demon broke free just as Azusa came down.  Instead of her
hitting it, it knocked her across the floor.
    *"You are no match for me,"* it stated flatly.  *"I am
tougher than you and my will is stronger than yours,"* it added.
    Azusa shook herself off and concentrated all her effort
into her next attack.  Before either it or Ayako could even
blink an eye, Azusa came out of nowhere and nailed it dead
center on the top of its head.  *"That is what you get, you
bastard!"* Azusa screamed as she rammed her weapon deeper into
it.  Ayako broke out of her trance and completed the attack.
    The demon did not even know how he could have lost.  All
it knew was that it lost.  With a strangled scream, it vanished
with a loud popping sound.  Its entire being ceased to exist on
any plane.  All it knew was peace at last.
    Back into their street clothes, the girls looked around.
Every window and light bulb in the place had shattered.  There
was a hell of a mess in that building when they stepped outside.
Ayako noticed that the sun had shifted by at least three hours.
To her, the battle lasted only a few minutes.
    Azusa looked at her partner and asked, "Nani?"
 "It seems that we were in there for about three hours,
Azusa."
    "Nani?  That only took ten minutes at the most, Ayako"
    "I know."


    As they headed back to the main building, Ayako noticed
that Azusa was limping.  This was the first time she saw her
friend get any injury that could not be patched by a bandage.
"Are you alright Azusa?" Ayako asked sincerely.
    "I am fine Ayako-chan.  I must have landed wrong when I
struck last.  Actually it doesn't hurt that much," Azusa
replied between clenched teeth.
    Ayako was about to comment but was prevented by the
presence of Ito Baaba and Deibu-san.  Before they could ask any
questions, Ayako asked, "Do you have a doctor near by?"
    "Hai.  There is one down the street.  I can take you
there myself," Ito answered.
    "Domo arigato.  It appears that my partner is slightly
injured."
    "By the way, what was that horrible scream?" Deibu-san
asked.  "It rattled the windows."
    "Sorry about that.  It seems that when we took out your
problem, all the windows and lights were blown out.  I guess it
didn't want to leave without taking something with it," Azusa
commented harshly.


    By the time they reached the clinic, Azusa was close to
tears.  The doctor came out and instantly ordered her inside.
"I will take care of your friend.  Please find someplace to go
for the next hour or so," the doctor, a nice middle aged man
said as he wheeled Azusa inside.
    "Call me at my office, doctor.  Her well being is
important to me."
    "Sure thing, Baaba-san."
    Reluctantly Ayako let Baaba lead her away from the clinic.
_I hope there is nothing seriously wrong with her.  I need her
with me.  A tear rolled down each cheek.  I wonder how Yohko
would react in this situation?_
    "You should be strong.  Your friend is in good hands.
Come on up to my office and let's talk about this thing that
took over my plant, ne?" Baaba said kindly.  Nodding, Ayako
agreed.


    Once they were all comfortably seated, Ayako began.  "The
demon that took up residence in your plant is not one of the
lesser demons that we have faced before.  This one actually made
time slow down.  What we thought was only a few minutes was
actually a few hours.  I never saw anything like that before.
Maybe Yohko and Azusa have but myself and Azusa-ni haven't."
Baaba gave her a weird look when she mentioned the 2.  "Yohko,
my cousin and her partner, Azusa have been fighting demons for
a year longer than myself and my partner Azusa.  There are two
Azusa's so the only way we can identify who is who; we add the
number after my partner.  It is only fair.  Besides," she added
with a small laugh, "we all look identical anyway, so it's
confusing enough for our business manager as is."
    Something just wasn't right.  The hairs on Ayako's neck
started to stand up.  In one quick motion, she had changed
outfits and threw a quick spray of spell wards at the individual
entering the office.  Baaba and Deibu stared in horror as Ayako
attacked the elevator girl.  *"Oh no you don't, you shit.  You
are not taking over her.  I ended this a half-hour ago.  Your
paltry existence ended then.  Now be gone, and this time I
mean it, damn it!"* she cried.  The spell wards connected with
the girl's body, and in a chain reaction of mystical blasts,
the demon was vaporized, steaming off the body of its victim
like so much smoke.
    The startled girl began to cry when she realized that she
was standing in her boss' office.  "I...don't...know...what...
came...over...me," Miyuki stuttered.
    "It is all right Miyuki.  Go home now.  I can use the
elevator myself this afternoon," Baaba said in soothing tones.
Turning to Deibu he added, "Why don't you take the young lady
home?"  Deibu nodded and escorted the crying girl from the
office.  "What was that all about?"
    "It appears that the demon did not really want to leave.
After we took it out, it decided to take over her.  The demon
wanted you this time."  Ayako lowered her eyes, she did not want
to look at him--Yohko had once told her that possession required
direct eye contact, and she wasn't about to take any chances.
Luckily, the phone rang, saving Ayako further consternation.
    "Moshi Moshi," Baaba said, picking up the receiver.
"Domo, Saeki-san.  Put him through."  After a short pause, he
continued, "How is she, doctor?"  A long pause, "We'll be right
over.  Domo arigato, sensei."  Replacing the receiver, he looked
at Ayako and added, "Your friend broke her ankle."
    Without waiting for Baaba to stand, Ayako was already up
and out the door.  She didn't even bother to take the elevator.
Instead she found the stairs and took two steps at a time as she
headed down.  Once she was on the main floor, she ran down the
hall and narrowly missed the security guard as she made a dash
for the doors.  Those who watched the girl emerge from the
building noticed that she didn't bother looking to see if anyone
was in her way as she ran down the street.  Just as she reached
the clinic, Ito Baaba emerged from his building.
    Azusa was sitting up in her bed with her right leg raised.
"My god, Azusa!"  Ayako stated as she entered her partner's room.
    "Oh, it isn't that bad Ayako-chan.  However, my toes are
cold," Azusa said quietly.  "It looks like I will be out of
commission for a little while."  Azusa closed her eyes and she
began to cry.
    "Don't cry Azusa-chan.  Everything will be all right,"
Ayako said softly as she sat down on the bed.
    "Well, I guess you can move fast, young lady," Baaba said
as he entered the room.  His face was red and he was breathing
heavily.
    "Gomen na sai, Baaba-san.  I had to see how Azusa was,"
Ayako stated.  She realized belatedly that it would have been
easier to use a teleportation spell, but it had never entered
her mind.
    "No need to apologize, Ayako.  I know you were worried
about your friend.  I consider that a true test of friendship."
Turning his attention to Azusa, he added, "You are lucky to have
a friend such as Ayako, Azusa.  Very few people find friends
like that in this world.  Take pride in her and you both will
succeed in whatever you do.  Please come by my office before you
head home.  There is something I would like to give you two."
    When Ito Baaba left, Azusa turned to Ayako and asked,
"Were you that worried about me?"
    Ayako looked at Azusa and nodded, "I am always worried
about you.  Whenever we go into a battle, I am scared to death
that either you or I will not be walking away.  That scares the
living hell out of me.  I don't know what I would do IF I ever
lost you."
    The doctor happened to walk past as the two girls were
embracing each other.  Not wanting to disturb them, he continued
down the hall.  _Healing goes faster if you have someone who
cares,_ the doctor thought as he headed to his office.


    When the girls separated, a nurse walked in with two
crutches.  "Have you used these before?"  Azusa shook her head.
"I guess you will have to learn the hard way then.  Try to keep
your foot off the ground.  When you walk, extend your good foot
first then bring the crutches forward.  The most important thing
is to keep your balance."
    "Ah, I think I should use a wheelchair instead.  I like to
keep my hands free in case something pops up"
    "And I guess you want me to push you around?  You have
something coming if you do," Ayako stated flatly.
    "Nani?  I never thought that, Ayako-chan.  I can maneuver
myself around," Azusa said softly.
    "I get it," Ayako said, "You want the boys to feel sorry
for you, isn't that right?"
    Azusa looked at her friend with hurt in her eyes.  "What-
ever gave you that impression?" she asked with a touch of
sarcasm.
    "I give up!  If you want a wheelchair, then I'll get you
one."
    A few minutes later, Ayako walked down the street with
Azusa pushing herself along.  As they approached the Ashita Co
LTD, they were met by the same security guard who held the door
for them before.  "Baaba-san is waiting for you in his office.
I am instructed to escort you there."
    "Domo arigato."


    Ten minutes later, the two girls were on their way home.
Azusa held an envelope containing two hundred thousand yen for
their trouble.  Then again, Azusa took most of the damage.
Ayako had a few new bruises to add to her collection.  _What in
god's name did I ever let my grandmother talk me into this?  I
should have been engaged to some nice rich guy.  But no, I had
been stupid enough to listen to what she wanted._
    "Dammit, all I wanted was to live a normal life," Ayako
stated between clenched teeth.  A passerby quickly sidestepped
them and crossed the street.
    "What is wrong Ayako-chan?"
    "Why did I have to listen to her?  Didn't she know that
all I wanted was to have a normal childhood and have a date or
two?  No!  Why?  Because she and my aunt don't get along.
Auntie ended up the Devil Hunter while grandma didn't.  Worse,
while you and I were trained purely to fight Yohko, *she* was
trained to fight devils--and that lack of training almost got
us killed that one time!
    "Because of that, we've had to work harder to catch up on
all the occult knowledge that Yohko and Azusa know...and it's
costing me my grades in college and yours at school!  If we'd
been trained properly in the first place, this never would have
happened!  Of course, there's the fact that we *never should have
been trained to begin with!!!!*
    "I can't even believe that I had to fight my own cousin
just to make her happy.  What did that get her?  Nothing.  She
hates her sister still, while Yohko and I are very close.  It's
bullshit, pure and simple."
    _If it was possible, she would have steam coming out of her
ears,_ Azusa thought.  "Ayako-chan, don't let the past get to
you.  I know how much pain and suffering you went through.  I
was there, remember?  Besides, you have Yohko, Azusa and me.
Let's hurry home.  I am getting tired of rolling myself down the
street."
    "Ok, I'll push you the rest of the way," Ayako said with
laughter in her voice.  "I bet now all the boys will be wanting
to take you home from school."
    "Yeah, right.  For starters, I won't be going to school
for a few days anyway.  If anyone is going to take me home it is
going to be Yuta," Azusa said as she looked up at her best
friend.
    "Are you kidding me?  Him?  I thought you had better taste
than that."
    "What is wrong with Yuta?"
    "Wrong with him?  I'll give you two reasons.  First off,
he isn't that bright and the other is that he is the smallest in
your class.  Actually, he is even smaller than you."
    "Are you jealous?"
    "Damn right I am.  Out of all of us, you are the only one
who has a boyfriend."
    "Can I help it if he likes me?  No.  Am I going to turn
him down?  Only if he asks the wrong question.  Besides I think
he is cute.  No one has treated me like he does.  Don't get me
wrong here.  You have been kind enough to put up with me over
the last few years.  Yuta makes me happy."
    "Oh shut up already," Ayako stated with a touch of
laughter.

Chapter Four: A Demon's View

    _Nothing is going right.  Must be that damn boycott by the
Japanese government,_ Jack thought as he walked down a deserted
street.  _Why is it that when the getting is good, someone has to
throw a wrench into the gears?_  For the last three days, Jack
had searched almost everywhere for someone.
    Just as he was about to call it a night, a movement caught
his eye.  Across the street from him, he watched a young
Japanese girl walk to the Albert Hall.  All she carried was her
French horn case.  From his vantage point he could see the long
black pony tail swinging along the small of her back.  _I guess
I am going to have to listen to her play,_ he thought as she
disappeared into the stage door.
    Turning around, Jack headed down the alley.  When he was
sure the coast was clear, he emerged into the nightlife.
Casually, he strolled down the street with his walking stick
striking the ground very quietly.  As he approached the concert
hall, he held the door for an elderly lady.
    "Why thank you kind sir," she said as she passed.
    "You're welcome, M'lady," he replied as he entered.
    Walking up to the ticket counter, he inquired, "Do you
have any seats available for tonight's concert?"
    "Yes we do," the middle aged lady answered.  "There is a
seat in the upper deck."
    "That will be fine."
    "Fifteen pounds."
    Reaching into his breast pocket, he pulled out a fat purse
and generously handed over the funds.  "Enjoy the concert."
    "Thank you," he said as he walked over to the stairs.  _Ten
years ago, she would have been nip for the old tuck.  Then again,
that was ten ago.  Now where is that young sweet lass who plays
the French horn?_  The band members came onto the stage one by one.
Where is she? he thought when the last member took his seat.
    "Tonight, we bring you a special treat," the announcer
said from off stage.  "Please welcome for the first time in
London, Miss Rika Kurusu."  _Now I know her name._
    The audience rendered a standing ovation as she walked
onto the stage.  She had changed into a lovely light blue
evening dress with spaghetti shoulder straps.  Bowing to the
audience, she took her seat next to the conductor.  Picking up
her horn, she nodded and the musicians began playing Mozart's
sixth symphony.  The sound she made with her instrument moved
every member of the audience including Jack.
    Wiping a tear off his face, Jack was deeply moved.  No
other musician had done that before.  _She is good.  It will be
such a pity that she must die soon._  For the remainder of the
concert, Jack let the music flow through him without paying any
attention to what was happening around him.  _First off, I think
I should just torment her for the first twenty minutes then
slowly draw my knife across her slender young neck.  This
thought requires less noise than I can get in here.  Just you
wait my dear young one.  I have another friend that I want you
to meet._
    By the time the concert was over, Jack had her face
completely memorized.  _Truth, I think I can locate her even
were she dressed for winter with a scarf over her face.  I can
even recall her by only her eyes.  No one could have that much
love for music in them as she does._  Jack thought as he walked
out of the concert hall.  Cautiously, he made his way to the
alley he first spotted her.  He did not have to wait long.
Instead of walking out alone, this time she was joined by other
members of the band.  _Damn, I will have to find her later._
Turning down the alley, he hurriedly headed away from the area.
    Being hungry for young blood, he spotted a girl walking
home from the corner store.  Quietly, he snuck up on her and
wrapped his hand across her mouth.  "Quiet girl," he whispered
as he brought out his knife.  The look in her eyes was pure fear.
He could feel her trembling as he led the way into a dark vacant
lot.  When he was sure there was no one watching, he turned her
around and looked at her face.  "How old are you?"
    "Thirteen," she replied with a shaky voice.
    "Thirteen," he repeated and she nodded.  "Do you know who
I am?"  She shook her head.  "Some call me Jack the Ripper,
perhaps Jack the Lad."  Her eyes widened even further.
"Personally, I like to be called Spring Heeled Jack."  Still
looking at her, he could smell the odor of urine, along with the
pheromones of the best and brightest scent, the tangy smell of
fear.  The poor child emptied her bladder right then and there.
"What is your name?"
    "Alice," she answered with complete and utter dread in her
voice.
    "Well Alice, I would like you to meet my friend.  Say
hello to my knife."
    "Hello, knife," she droned, every syllable being shakily
spilt from her mouth as though it could be her last.
    "That's good Alice," he said as he placed his hand over
her mouth and drew it across her throat very slowly.  The only
sound was a short burst of anguish from the girl.  Keeping her
head turned away from him, he completed the incision.  As the
blood flowed from her throat, Jack looked up at the night sky
and smiled.  _At least my blade is satisfied for now._  After
letting the limp body fall to the ground, he quickly cut off
her shirt and made another incision from her neck to her navel.
Carefully he made a third cut, this time across her flat belly.
Reaching inside, he pulled out her liver and heart.  After
cutting them free, he wiped his hands on her pants and removed
a plastic and a paper bag from his jacket.  Once the organs were
placed inside the bags, Jack carefully sewed her up.
    Wiping his hands on her pants once again, he pulled out a
pen and a pad of paper.

    Nigel and Rei,

    Here is a yung girl called Alice.  She was a pretty yung
girl.  Too bad she had her life taken from her at the tender
age of thirteen.  I cudn't find a yung Japnes girl.  This yung
girl gave me her heart and liver so that I cud have dinner
tonight.  Nice girl.
        Jack

    Smiling, he picked up the bags and headed down to the
river.  On cue, the winter fog began to move in, and though it
wasn't snowing tonight, Jack took solace in the fact that the
fog, his one true ally and friend, was there for him.  He always
felt as though the fog were some living breathing thing, a
watchful spirit of sorts, and a guardian of some type.
    As he reached the Tower of London, he made a right turn
and walked another nine blocks to the nearest taxi stand.  A
short jaunt, and seven kilometers later, he reached his home.
Walking inside, he went to the kitchen and placed the bags on
the counter as he removed his jacket.  Opening a drawer, he
pulled out a slicing knife and set it on the counter next to
the bag.  Next he took out a skillet, a plate, silverware and
a wineglass.  Carefully, he removed the organs from the bag and
began cutting them into strips.  Jack did not bother to rinse
them off.  _The only way to cook them is in their natural juices,_
he thought as he placed the strips in the skillet.
    As his meal was cooking, he set the table and poured him-
self a glass of red wine.  Once everything was cooked, he sat at
the table and read the concert program while he ate.  _Ah, youths.
Nothing in the world compares to a young tender child.  Their
lives are easy going and carefree._  Setting the program down,
Jack stood and walked over to his stereo.  After tuning into a
classical station, he returned to the table and continued eating.
Once he was finished, Jack cleaned up the kitchen and decided to
read a Sherlock Holmes story.  _If he were real, I would have
been caught a long time ago.  Thank goodness he isn't.  But then,
it would have been nice to have an opponent of real caliber,
unlike those fools at New Scotland Yard._


    The next day, the girl's strange death appeared in the
London _Times_.  As he read the accompanying article, he was
slightly offended.  _At least I had the decency to sew her back
up when I was finished.  I am not like anyone else who goes
around and copies me._  Walking out of his house, he headed down
to the market to buy groceries.  His pantry had become almost
empty as of late.  The sun was shining and Jack could hear
laughter from young children as he walked to and from the market.
    "Morning m'lady," he said as he passed a thirty-something
mother with her infant.
    "Morning to you too," she replied as he walked passed.
    Smiling to himself, he started whistling a favorite tune
as he continued on his way home.  After putting everything away,
he made himself a light lunch before heading back out.  Walking
past the same empty lot, he noticed that there were fifteen
Bobbies and a couple of SpecPat personnel.  He did not see the
two agents that have been assigned to this case.
    "Excuse me, sir," a bobby called as he walked past.
    "Yes?" he asked as he turned around.  Standing in the
gate was a young lass about the age of twenty-five.  Her blonde
hair was pulled up under her hat.  She had big blue eyes that
complimented her small face.
    "Do you live around here?" she asked.
    "Just across the river.  Why?"
    "We're investigating a murder that occurred here last
night.  Have you seen anyone suspicious around here lately?"
    "No, I haven't.  The victim wouldn't be that young girl
that was in the paper this morning, would it?" he asked
sincerely.
    "Yes it is.  Did you know her?"
    Jack looked at her and lowered his head.  "We had chatted
once a couple of days ago.  She was such a sweet young lady.
She told me her name was Alice and that she just turned thirteen.
Such a shame that we have to live without her presence in the
world."  As he talked, a tear rolled down his eye.  _Even I feel
the loss and she was really a nice girl too._
    "Thank you sir," the policewoman said as she turned and
started to walk back into the lot.  Jack stood there staring in
her direction for a few moments before heading to his
destination.
    The entire time he was walking, he was paying attention
to everything around him.  He did not want to leave an
impression on anyone's mind that he stood out from the rest of
the residents.  Carefully, he planned his route to and from the
concert hall.  He found a perfect hiding spot that had a clear
view of the stage door.  Not wanting to look like a troublemaker,
he walked towards Picadilly.  By the time the sun had set, he
found himself hiding across from the door.

                                ==|-------

    Rika walked out the door and looked around.  She was glad
that no one from the band was outside.  She had stayed longer
than she planned at the reception last night and only wanted to
go home early tonight.  From where he was hiding, he was able to
tell that she had on a pair of faded blue jeans and a baggy
green shirt.  He waited for her to get a block ahead of him
before he headed out.  Jack followed her for ten blocks before
he headed home.  _There will be plenty of time for me to catch
her completely off guard._
    Instead of taking the same route home, Jack figured that
it would be best if he took a different way.  He was about two
blocks from his house when he spotted Catherine, the girl he
always bought candy for whenever he saw her sitting on the stoup.
"Evening, Catherine.  What are you doing out this late?"
    "Hello yourself, Mr. Johansen.  I am not that tired so I
decided to come out here and stare up at the sky."  She said as
he sat down next to her.  "How come you are out late?"
    "I wanted to take a stroll," he answered as he pulled out
a piece of candy for her.  "Here, this is for you."
    "Why thank you," she said as she gave him a hug after
taking the gift.  He could tell that she was starting to grow
into a lovely young lady.  As she released him, she sat back and
popped the candy into her mouth.  Together, they sat there
looking up at the stars.
    _Why not take this one?_  His mind asked.  _Because, everyone
knows that we talk all the time and I have already been spotted
by her mother._  Every so often, Jack would look at her and she
would meet his gaze.  They would smile to each other and look
back up at the sky.  "Well, princess, I must be going home.
Take care of yourself and I will see you again."
    "Thanks for the candy, Mr. Johansen," she said as he
stood up.
    Facing her, he rubbed the top of her head and said, "You
better get inside before your mother comes out here."
    "She doesn't know I'm out here."
    "Yes she does, she spotted me as I sat down to talk to you.
She is waiting by the door right now."  Looking up at the door,
he added, "Lovely night, isn't it?"
    "Yes it is," she answered.  "Come on inside now, Catherine."
    "Good evening to you," Catherine said as she scampered up
the steps.
    "And you, Catherine," Jack called back as he walked down
the street.  He thought back to when he first met Catherine.
She was sitting on the steps, crying.  He asked what was wrong
and she answered that her pet cat just died.  That was almost
two years ago.  Ever since then, he had the urge to pick up
where he left off over a hundred years ago.
    _Life can be fun and then somewhere along the way, all hell
 breaks loose and you don't have a clue what to do,_ he thought
to himself as he made his way home.
    _*Why did you start talking to her in the first place?  She
would have made a wonderful sacrifice for me!*_  His mind spoke at
him.
    _Shut up,_ he cried.  _She was lonely when we met.  Now I am
her matey that keeps her going day in and day out.  If I ended
her life, I would be the first person they would look for._
    A block from his house, he spotted another young girl.
This time she was around sixteen.  Instead of heading in her
direction, he headed home.  All this arguing with himself has
given him a headache.  Once inside his house, he headed into the
bath to retrieve some aspirin.  Then he went into the kitchen
and made a pot of Twinings.  When the tea was ready, he picked
up the book he was reading earlier and continued where he left
off.  _Of all the nights, I had to pick this one to visit
Catherine._
    Halfway through the story, he put the book down and
decided to go for a walk.  This time he headed in the oposite
direction.  Ten blocks from where he lived, he spotted a young
lady standing under a streetlight trying to light her cigarette.
"Here let me give you a hand," he said as he approached.
    "Thanks," was all she said as he lit her cigarette.  He
continued walking down the street until he found a dark entryway.
>From there, he watched her smoke and fidget.  Something just
wasn't right.  Instead of sticking around, he continued on his
way.  Within a minute of leaving the entryway, a car pulled up
next to the woman.  She leaned into the car and spoke for a
brief period of time.  As he looked back, she climbed in and the
car sped off.  Oh well.  Another five blocks, he turned left and
ran smack into another young lady.
    "Sorry," she said as she kept on moving.  By the time he
turned around, she was gone.  _Damn!  This isn't going too well
tonight, Jack._  He thought to himself as he continued walking.
By the time he got his bearings straight, a third young lady.
>From where he stood, he could tell that she had red hair and was
barely five feet tall.  She finally noticed him, as he was about
to reach her.
    "Could you spare a cigarette?" she asked.
    "Sorry, I don't smoke."
    "Sorry to disturb you," she said as she walked away.
    Jack followed her movements with his eyes.  When she was
about a hundred yards away, he turned around and followed her.
When she turned down a dark alley, he was upon her.  "Don't
scream," he said as he placed his hand over her mouth.  She
nodded.  Keeping her back to him, he leaned down and whispered
into her ear, "Tell me, how old are you?"
    "Nineteen," she answered around the hand on her mouth.
    "Nineteen," he echoed.  "What is your name?"
    "Janice."
    "Well Janice, how about we play a little game."  Janice
nodded her head.  "Good, how about you tell me what you think
each object is and if you are correct, I'll let you go.  Does
that sound fair?"  Again she nodded.  First she placed a pen
against her hand.
    Since she could not see the object, she guessed, "A
pencil."
    "Wrong, it is a pen."  He said with a quiet voice.  "What
is this one?" he asked as he placed the blade of his knife at
her throat.
    Her eyes widened when she felt cold steel against her
neck.  "A knife."
    "Good," he stated with the same quiet voice.  "Now I'll
let you go."  With that, he sliced her neck open.  _*Thank You
Jack.  I needed that.*_  Jack let her limp body drop to the
ground and he walked away.  As he walked out the far end of the
alley, he could here someone calling, "Janice, where are you?"
_Too bad, she won't be answering you._  Smiling to himself, he
headed home once again.  _*Now, I can sleep tonight, Jack my boy.*_


    Upon entering his house, the phone was ringing.  "Hello,"
he said as he picked up the receiver.
    "Good evening sir, I am calling to see if you would like
to subscribe to the Comic Club," a soft-spoken voice said.
    "I am sorry, I do not read comics," he stated with respect.
    "Sorry to disturb you sir," she said as she hung up.
    _How did they get my number?  I had it unlisted for privacy.
Now I will have to call British Telecom._  Jack thought as he
replaced the receiver in its cradle.  Instead of pondering
further, he headed to his bedroom.

                                ==|-------

    As he stepped into the shower the next morning, he heard
about the latest murder.  _Just once, I would like to take my
morning shower in peace.  Tonight, my boy, is the night for Rika._
Getting dressed, he decided to walk over to see his young friend.
As he neared her house, he noticed several police cars.
    A middle-aged policewoman stopped him.  "Sir, we are
holding an inquiry in this area.  Is there something we can do
for you?"
    "I just came by to see Catherine, the little girl who
lives in that house," he answered as he pointed to the same
house the officers were coming out of.
    "I am sorry to inform you that the little girl has been
killed."  Jack's lower jaw dropped at the news.  "How do you
know the young girl?"
    "A couple of years ago, I was walking down this street and
I saw her crying.  I stopped and talked to her.  Ever since then,
I have kept an eye out for her and her family--can never be too
careful with all this runabout.  Whenever I would see her
playing outside, I would stop and give her a piece of sweets.
Last night she seemed to be in a good mood for a change.  How
did she die?"
    "I am sorry sir, but I cannot give out that information."
 Out of nowhere a loud piercing voice rang out, " That's
him.  I saw him talking to her."  Several heads turned to him.
    "Is that so," another officer said as he walked up.
Unlike his partner, he was still in his twenties.  "When did
you see her last?"
    "I saw her last night around nine.  We talked for a few
minutes.  Her mother came out and told her to go inside.  I said
good night to both of them before heading home."
    The young officer looked at him, then wrote everything
down in his little book.  "Would you stop by the precinct and
give us a full statement for our records?"
    "I will be glad to.  I hope you find out who killed her.
She was such a sweet young girl.  I will miss her terribly."
Jack said as a tear rolled down his cheeks.  "Goodbye Catherine.
I hope you are happy where you are," he whispered as he walked
away.
    _Well this has turned into a lousy day.  What else could go
wrong?_  He thought as he continued his casual stroll.  The city
was starting to get on his nerves.  _What you need Jack is a day
in the country.  Hire yourself a car and go.  There is nothing
stopping you from enjoying a beautiful day._  As he reached the
corner, a city lorry ran a light and hit a compact.  From what
he saw, he knew that there were injuries.  Turning around, he
ran back to the policemen.
    "Excuse me," he said as he caught the attention of the
policewoman he talked to earlier.  "There has been an accident
at the corner."  As he finished, she took off down the street.
_Haven't seen anyone move that fast since I was in school.  Good
old George.  There was a man that could run.  Linda had a hard
time keeping up with him as he walked.  No one could catch him
if he was running.  How they ended up married was anyone's guess,_
he thought as he headed back to the scene of the accident.


    A large group of people watched as the officer tried to
get the injured people out of the car.  Without being asked, he
lent a hand and helped.  A woman in her early twenties was in
hysterics as she was pulled out from the wreckage.  "Where is
Amy?" she kept asking and asking.  Jack looked into the car and
could barely see the tiny legs of the infant.  He knew just from
looking that the baby girl was already dead.
    The officer looked at him when he stepped back from the
car.  "What is wrong?" she asked as she saw his expression.
    "I have seen death a thousand times in my life, but
nothing is more horrifying than seeing a child so badly
mangled,"he answered as he walked over to a small row of hedges
and puked.  _This is the worst day in my existence._  "How can I
say I'm sorry to her?" he asked no one in particular.
    "Nobody can," the officer said as he stood up.  "The best
thing is to tell her the truth and hopefully she will
understand."
    "You are wrong there, Miss," Jack stated flatly.  "There
is no easy way to tell a young mother that her child has been
killed in an accident.  I know that from past experiences.
About fifteen years ago, I lost my child to an accident.  Within
the next month, I lost my wife.  She was so heart broken that
she willed her life to end."  More tears were running down his
face.  "I barely kept my sanity when everyone around me was
losing theirs."
    Another police car arrived and the officer was questioning
the driver of the lorry.  "How fast were you going?  Didn't you
see the light change?"  Jack did not bother to stick around and
listen to the answers.  He was so wrapped up in the death of the
child for anything else.
    "Excuse me sir, could you tell me your name?" the police-
woman asked.
    "Richard.  Richard Johansen."
    "Thank you for your help, Mr. Johansen," she said as she
escorted him away from the scene.

                                ==|-------

    Three hours later, Jack was back at the scene of his
latest victim.  Rei and Nigel were busy looking over the area.
_Now there are two dedicated individuals.  Maybe they will get
lucky.  Then again, maybe not.  I have survived for over a
hundred years and I haven't been caught yet.  There have been
some very good sleuths that have tried to uncover me paths.  All
of them went to their grave, disappointed._
    Standing across the street from them, Jack watched with
extreme curiosity.  Nothing proved more interesting than
watching the two agents trying to get clues from the scene.
Unlike the last victim, this one only had her throat cut.
Having seen enough, Jack turned away and headed over to the Hall.
_Maybe, you can find out where she lives, Jack ole boy._  He
thought as he strolled down the street.  Just as he arrived at
his hiding place, she arrived.  Tonight, she wore a loose
fitting sweatshirt and a pair of faded jeans.  _Not bad at all,
if I say so myself._
    For the next three hours, he stood there waiting for her
to come out.  Finally, she emerged with a group of fellow
musicians.  He could not hear what was being said, but he could
figure out that they were trying to convince her to join them.
After giving them an apology, she headed her way and the others
went the oposite direction.
    Giving her a head start, Jack followed her.  This time, he
kept her in sight until she arrived at her flat.  Nice location,
he thought as he watched her enter the building.  _Now I know
where you live, Rika._  He stood watching her building for
another twenty minutes before turning around and heading home.
_Well Jack, you have turned this into a productive day.
Congratulations on a good job._  On the way home, he spotted an
empty lot that was just down the road from where she lived.
This would make an excellent location for her demise.
Whistling an off key tune, he continued his walk.


    "Good morning London," the news announcer began.  "So far,
Scotland Yard still doesn't have any leads into the bizarre
deaths.  According to a NSY spokesperson, NSY is getting closer
to finding the identity of the perpetrator."  Jack sat up in bed
when he heard that.  _I guess I underestimated those two._  "So
far, they believe the acts are caused by the same person.  There
haven't been any eyewitnesses so NSY are unable to give a
description.  Japanese government officials are still..." Jack
reached over and shut off the radio.
    "Isn't there any good news?" he said aloud as he climbed
out of bed.  _Life was so much simpler a hundred years ago.
There was no such thing as radio or telly.  If you wanted to
know what was going around town, you bought the paper.  Hardly
anyone reads the paper any more,_ he thought as he climbed into
the shower.  Once he finished, he cleaned up the house and the
yard.
    After all the work was done, he sat and continued reading
the story that he started a few days before.  Noon came and went
while he read.  As he closed the back cover, the sun was
starting to set.  _Tonight is the night Jack.  I hope you are
prepared._  Getting up, he fixed himself a ham and swiss on rye.
By the time he finished eating, it was already dark.  Putting on
his coat, he took his walking stick and headed over to Rika's
flat.  He decided to wait for her when she returned from the
concert tonight.
    Jack stood in the shadows as Rika approached.  Instead of
sneaking up behind her, he decided to approach her from the
front.  When she was still a block away, he stepped out from his
hiding place and started walking towards her.  As they neared,
Jack accidentally, on purpose, bumped into her.
    "Pardon me," Jack said as he helped her remain on her feet.
"I am sorry, I don't know what happened," he added as he spun
her around and flashed hi knife in front of her.  Before she
could let out a scream, Jack placed his hand over her mouth and
whispered, "If you make a sound, you will regret it.
Understand?"  She nodded her head in response.  "Good.  Now we
are going to take a friendly walk."  Together they walked back
to where he waited for her to arrive.
    "Listen up.  Do you know who I am?"  Rika shook her head.
"I am the one that has been making the news everyday for the
last two months."  Her eyes grew to a point that they almost
popped out of her head.  "Careful, Rika, I don't want you to
lose your lovely eyes."
    In a soft-scared tone, Rika asked, "Why?  What did I do?"
    "Absolutely nothing.  For the past hundred years I
followed prostitutes.  I figured that I would change my
victims.  I found that young Japanese ladies are more delightful
than my previous victims.  Now comes the really fun part."  A
look of true terror could be seen on her face as he spoke.  "I
get to tell you what I am going to do.  First off, I am going to
take out my knife and show it to you.  Then, if I am in a good
mood, I'll just slide it across your young tender throat.  If I
am not in a good mood, I'll carefully remove one or two of your
organs after I let you bleed to death.  Everything depends on
you, Rika."  The last part of his little speech, she did not
hear because she fainted.  Losing the good mood he was in, Jack
laid her down on the ground, slit her throat and rolled her onto
her left side.
    Before rolling Rika back, he made sure there was no more
blood seeping from her neck.  Not bothering to be neat, Jack cut
open her shirt and bra.  With one stroke, he had cut her from
the neck down to her navel.  One more cut across her flat belly
and Jack had opened her up.  Reaching inside, he cut out her
heart, liver and kidneys.  He did not feel like fixing her up
like he did the thirteen-year-old.  Instead, he closed her shirt
and walked away.  By the time he was three blocks away, he heard
someone scream.  The sound of that voice was like music in his
ears.  His own music.  Smiling to the entire world, Jack walked
cheerfully home.

Chapter Five: Fears and the Scoop

    A Boeing 747 landed at Los Angeles International Airport.
The two passengers stepped off the plane and looked at what they
saw.  Never in their lives have they seen anything like this
before.  An airport representative met them as they walked
through the gate.  "Good afternoon, my name is Alicia.  There
is a lounge reserved for you while you are waiting for your
plane to refuel.  If you will follow me please."
    Yohko translated for Azusa.  Both girls were surprised at
the abundance of hospitality they have been shown since they
arrived at Narita.  As they entered the lounge, they were
surprised once again.  There was a basket of fruit, a bottle of
champagne, a fully stocked wet bar, a large screen TV and a
stereo system.
    "Yohko, would look at all of this," Azusa cried as she
entered.
    "Please make yourselves comfortable.  I will return when
your flight is ready.  In the meantime, enjoy."
    "Thank you," Yohko said as she walked over to the windows
that overlooked the tarmac.  "Azusa, come take a
look at this airport."
    "Mmph," Azusa answered as she took a huge bite out of a
red apple.  Azusa just stared out the window, the apple
temporarily forgotten in her mouth.  After remembering that she
was eating, Azusa finished chewing the piece in her mouth and
added, "This place is huge.  I thought Narita was big, but this
is even bigger."
    Just as Yohko was about to respond, a phone on the coffee
table started ringing.  "Hello," Yohko said as she answered.
   "How was your flight from Japan?"
   "It was wonderful.  Azusa slept most of the way.  Where are you?"
    "I am in St. Paul.  I will be waiting for you when you
land.  There is a lot to discuss when you arrive."
    "Why are you doing all of this for us?  Wouldn't it have
been cheaper if we flew across Asia and Europe instead of the
Pacific and the States?"
    "Yes it would have been cheaper and faster.  But I
promised a friend that I would help her out.  This is the only
way I can provide that help.  You have to bear with me on this,
Yohko-chan."
    "Hai.  Azusa can't wait to meet this strange man that is
giving her a thrill of a lifetime."  Azusa jabbed Yohko in the
ribs.  "I can't wait to see you again John-san."
    Alicia walked back into the lounge.  "We have to go.  Our
plane is about to leave again.  Ja ne."
    "Ja ne, Yohko-chan."
    "This is such a lovely place.  I could live like this
forever," Azusa said as she started walking out the door.
    "No you wouldn't.  After the first few days, you would
get bored and start acting crazy," Yohko commented as they
walked towards the gate.
    "Domo arigato, Alicia," Azusa said as she entered the gate.
Yohko looked at her friend and shrugged.
    Lilly met them at the plane.  "Welcome back.  I hope you
enjoyed your stay.  We will be leaving in five minutes.
    "Thank you," Yohko said as she stepped onboard.  By the
time she reached her seat, Azusa was already strapped in.
    "This has been a lot of fun.  I wonder what Ayako and
Azusa-ni are doing?  Hopefully we are not missing out on
anything."
    Looking over at her partner, Yohko could not help but
smile.  Whenever she needed a pick-me-up, all she had to do
was talk with Azusa.  _Mother is always too busy to talk.
Either she is out working or she is arguing with grandmother.
Grandmother is too wrapped up in training to talk about the
little things.  Ayako and Azusa-ni are tied up either in their
Devil Hunter arcana training, or their normal lives.  Even
though Azusa is still in training, she is still the only one I
can turn to just to talk.  If she decides to move on after this
is over with, I will miss her greatly._
    Yohko was deep in thought to realize that the plane had
taxied and taken off.  "Welcome aboard the continuing flight.
Our next stop will be Minneapolis-St. Paul.  Time of this flight
will be four hours and fifty minutes.  The current temperature
is sixty-four degrees with light rain.  Lilly will be serving
dinner shortly after we reach our cruising altitude.  So sit
back and enjoy the flight."
    "I think I like our pilot," Azusa stated.  Yohko started
laughing.  "What is so funny?"
    "I can't believe you actually said that.  Why don't you
go up to the cockpit and talk to him.  I think he will let you
sit up there for a while."  Azusa looked at her.  "Just go and
get it over with, will you."  Azusa unbuckled her safety strap
and headed up to the upper deck.

    While Azusa made her way to the front of the aircraft, it
gave Yohko some time to think.  Che, she can get real annoying
sometimes.  _How did I survive with her these last four years?_
Instantly, her conscience responded.  _You survived the last four
years because of her.  If she hadn't been there, you would
already be in your grave.  Wise up and face facts: you both need
each other.  Don't even start thinking about what it would have
been like because you will end up finding yourself dead and
buried every time you look back.  Azusa is your best friend in
the entire world, Yohko.  Don't even think about screwing it up._
 Dinner was being served by the time Azusa came back down.
Her face was lit up like a Christmas tree.  "Oh, he is such a
nice man.  He let me sit in the co-pilot's seat and he also let
me punch a few buttons."  Azusa said as she sat down.  "You
should go up and see for yourself, Yohko."
    "Sorry Azusa, I don't feel like doing that.  Right now
all I want to do is think a few things over.  Ok?"
    "Sure Yohko.  Is there anything I can do for you?"
    "No.  Thanks anyway."  Looking out the window, Yohko let
her mind wander.  _Grandmother, why did I become a Devil Hunter?
All I really wanted was to enjoy my teenage years and have a
boyfriend.  Instead, I got bad grades in school and didn't even
find a boyfriend._
    _I guess it's because I'm a direct descendant.  All the
first born girls in the family become a Devil Hunter--our family
is so matriarchal, we've been keeping the Mano surname, despite
Japanese convention!  Give yourself some time and you will find
a boyfriend.  Right now, you have work to do._
    _After this is over, you will have time to find that
special someone.  Enjoy life as it is and you will be rewarded
many times over.  Azusa is very fond of you and she will do just
about anything that will make you happy.  Above all, do not
underestimate Azusa or yourself.  You have seen more than you
should and together, you are the best team there is.  Azusa,
Ayako, Azusa-ni, Chikago, Grandmother and Mother have faith in
you, Yohko.  Don't deny it.  Now don't start having regrets,
they will get in the way when you can't afford them._
    Closing her eyes, Yohko fell asleep.  Azusa looked over at
her and said, "Pleasant dreams, Yohko-chan."

                                ==|-------

    Yohko woke up just as the plane was making its descent
into Minneapolis.  "We will be arriving at gate fifteen in
thirty minutes.  Your host will be waiting for you in the
terminal.  This flight will continue to London when everything
is settled here.  I hope you have enjoyed your flight."
    "Yohko, is this where they built that huge mall?"
    "Yes, Azusa.  I think we will have time to look around
before we have to go to London.  Right now, John-san is waiting
for us."
    As they entered the terminal, a well-dressed gentleman in
his late twenties met them.  His brown hair was cut just above
the collar and his green eyes lit up as he saw Yohko.  Yohko
dropped her carry-on and ran up to him.  Azusa stood there and
watched the spectacle that was happening in front of her.
"John-san, I missed you."
    "I missed you too, Yohko-chan.  You look beautiful."
    "Thank you.  How are you doing?"
    "I am doing great," he stated as they separated.  Looking
over to Azusa, he added, "Konnichiwa Azusa-chan. Ogenki desu ka?"
    "Hai, genki desu.  Okage sama de.  Anata wa?" Azusa
stuttered.
    "Genki da, domo.  Come follow me.  Don't worry about your
luggage, we will have your bags brought to the house."  A few
passengers looked at the trio and wondered what all that was
about.  "Now you can finally meet Liz and the kids."
    "I didn't know you were married."
    "Just like I didn't know you were in college," John
answered as they walked out of the terminal.  Parked right in
front was a black limousine.  The driver opened the door as they
arrived.  "Thank you Steve.  Home please."
    "Yes sir," Steve said as he closed the door.  Unlike the
chauffeurs in the movies, Steve was wearing a pair of faded jeans
and a pull over polo shirt.  His curly blonde hair came down to
his shoulders an