mfranz@lamar.ColoState.EDU (Michael Franz) Hi! This is just a little story I wrote for fun. I'm into crossovers, so I thought I'd do one with Japanese animation. For those of you on the X-Files newsgroup who aren't familiar with Devil Hunter Yohko, let me give you a brief description. Yohko is a 16-year-old Japanese high school student who is the 108th generation in a long line of Devil Hunters. Their job is to kill any demons that threaten the Earth. In the first episode, Yohko learns about her Devil Hunter heritage and defeats an invasion of demons by killing their leader, the Black Queen. In the second episode, Yohko gets an apprentice named Azusa and must fight demons who haunt an ancient forest. In the third episode, Yohko is taken to a strange dimension where she must free imprisoned lovers trapped inside powerful demons. The fourth episode is a collection of music videos. In the fifth episode, Yohko must face the Devil Hunters' greatest nemesis and even death itself! In the sixth episode, Yohko finds out that her grandmother has a twin sister -- and that her granddaughter wants to be the Devil Hunter by any means necessary! In short, Yohko fights a lot of demons. And this story is no exception. Note: This story has been modified slightly from its original version to make it fit in better with the story arc I have planned. I *will* write more stories in this series (when I can find the time, that is.) My plans include Mulder and Scully meeting Phantom Quest Corp., Ranma, and Oh My Goddess, and that's not all! Also, please note that this story takes place between episodes five and six of Devil Hunter Yohko, and between the episodes "The Calusari" and "Anasazi" of the X-Files. This story also makes strong references to "The Calusari" and "Die Hand Die Verletzt", so you should see these episodes first to fully understand this story. I changed the timeframe of the story to better fit in with Yohko part 5, in which Yohko learns about her ancestor, the first Devil Hunter. In this story, the tale of the first Devil Hunter is also told, but in Yohko part 5, the characters act like they've never heard it before, so the timing had to be changed to close the plot hole. Timeline: April 1995 Beginning of Yohko's first year in high school. in-between Devil Hunter Yohko Parts 1-3 take place in this time. October 1995 Yohko's second semester begins. Devil Hunter Yohko Part 5 takes place. December 1995 This story takes place. April 1996 Yohko's second year in high school begins. Devil Hunter Yohko Part 6 takes place. Well, enjoy the story! And remember: "Beware of Germans bearing Gift." Devil Hunter Yohko meets the X-Files ("Demon City D.C.") (C) 1995 Michael Franz The X-Files are (C) 1995 Ten Thirteen Productions and 20th Century Fox. Devil Hunter Yohko is (C) 1990 Japan Computer Systems and Toho, Inc. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- PART ONE San Dimas, California 2:40 AM (Shot of an ordinary suburban house at night. Camera moves back to show an unmarked black van parked across the street. Inside, several black clad figures are looking at monitors showing infrared pictures of the neighborhood and listening to several headsets. One takes off his headset and gives a hand signal to the others, who quickly leave the van and head towards the house. Inside the house, a teenaged blond girl is sleeping in her bed. A light flashes near her window, indicating an alarm is attached to it. Suddenly, there is a slight rustling noise outside. There are a few clicks, and the flashing light goes out. The window opens slowly, and two black-clad figures climb inside. One of them walks over to the bed carrying a rag, which he puts over the girl's mouth and nose. She wakes up and tries to struggle, but the drug quickly overwhelms her.) Mano Family Residence Yokohama, Japan 7:30 AM (A typical morning at the Mano house. Yohko's grandmother Madoka is cooking breakfast, while Yohko, Azusa, and Yohko's mother Sayoko sit at the table.) Sayoko: Hey Mom, is the food ready *yet*? Madoka: It's almost ready, dear. Just be patient. Sayoko: Patient?! In the time it takes you to make a simple pot of miso soup, a glacier could move a mile! Madoka: So I'm a glacier, am I?! Well, that's better than being a volcano of lust like yourself! Sayoko: Hmph! Only because no man ever looks at *you* that way. Madoka: Hey! When I was Yohko's age, my dance cart was always full. And *I* never had to promise to sleep with them, either! Sayoko: Yeah, like anyone would have. Yohko: Mom! Grandma! I thought we agreed, no fighting until after breakfast! Madoka: Yeah, you could at least let me finish cooking before you start. Sayoko: Before *I* start?! *You're* always starting it! Yohko: A-HEM!! Sayoko: (sighs) Oh, all right. (Madoka finishes cooking and brings out the breakfast, which consists of miso soup and rice. The group digs in.) Azusa: This is very good soup, Auntie Madoka. Madoka: Thank you, Azusa dear. Sayoko: Good?! It might be good if you actually put something besides water in it. Madoka: Are you saying my soup's too thin? Sayoko: I'm saying that if your soup was an alibi, it'd be thinner than Asahara's. [Reference to Shoko Asahara, leader of the Aum Shinri Kyo cult who released poison gas into Tokyo's subway system in 1995.] Madoka: Hey! I don't have to take that kind of talk from you! Sayoko: Oh yeah? What are you going to do about it? Yohko: Hey! What happened to "no fighting during breakfast"? Sayoko: (throwing her bowl aside) I'm done! Are you? Madoka: (also throwing away her bowl) Damn right! Let's go! (Madoka and Sayoko immediately grab bamboo swords and begin whacking at each other.) Madoka: Now, I shall make you eat your words, ungrateful daughter! Sayoko: At least I'll get something worth eating from you, you old bag! Azusa: Is it like this *every* morning? Yohko: (sighs) I'm afraid so. These two *never* learn. (Madoka and Sayoko continue to whack away at each other. Suddenly, their swords break. Madoka grabs a frying pan while Sayoko grabs a hammer. Both of them swing and hit each other in the head, knocking both of them out.) Azusa: Grown-ups can be so immature sometimes, can't they? Yohko: You said it, Azusa-chan. You said it! McDonald's Yokohama, Japan 3:32 PM (Another day of school is out. Yohko and her friend Chi are hanging out at McDonald's, eating French fries and drinking Cokes.) Yohko: Man! That English test today was sure hard! Chi: You said it, Yohko! How can people possibly speak a language with so many illogical ways to spell things? Yohko: Yeah, I know. Did you miss "knife", too? Chi: No, that one I got right. I just remembered it was spelled like "Knight Sabers". Yohko: Chi, you never told me you liked Bubblegum Crisis too! Chi: Oh yeah! I love thinking about how great it would be to live in MegaTokyo. Yohko: Great?! Chi, you can't even walk down the street there without a combat Boomer trying to kill you! Chi: So? Don't demons always try to kill you? Yohko: But that's different, Chi. I can fight them. I don't think my sword would do much good against a two-ton hunk of steel! Chi: But what if you were a Knight Saber, Yohko? Wouldn't you just love all the excitement? Yohko: Being a Devil Hunter is more than enough excitement for me, Chi. Besides, I'd never get along with Priss. She's so emotional. (The girls laugh. Suddenly, a blond-haired European boy walks up to them.) Chi: Oh my God, Yohko, it's that cute exchange student! I can't believe it, he's coming over to see *us*! Wolfgang: Excuse me, but are you Yohko Mano? Yohko: Yeah, that's me. You're the new exchange student, aren't you? Wolfgang: Ja. My name is Wolfgang Boeck, and I'm from Braunschweig, Germany. Chi: (jumping in front of him) Hello! I'm Chigako Ogawa, and it's so great to meet you! Wolfgang: It is nice to meet you, too. (He turns his attention back to Yohko, completely ignoring Chi.) Um, I have heard that you are a Teufeljaeger. Is this true? Yohko: Huh? What's a Teufeljaeger? Wolfgang: I am not sure about the word in Japanese. I believe it means, um, "Devil Hunter"? Yohko: Yeah, that's right! How did you know about that? Wolfgang: My family has long been interested in the arcane and paranormal. We have heard many legends about the clan of Devil Hunters. In fact, my grandfather even met your grandmother once when they were younger. It is said that together, they fought a great battle against an evil sorcerer. Yohko: Wow, that sounds pretty cool! Wolfgang: I have come to Japan to research the magical art of Devil Hunting. It would be an honor for me to study under one so great as you. Yohko: Um, well, I suppose you'd have to ask my grandmother about that... Wolfgang: I have already done so. However, she has retired, so I thought it only proper to ask the current practicioner's permission as well. Yohko: Well, I suppose it's alright with me. Wolfgang: Excellent! I shall meet you this afternoon around 4:30. (He bows.) Auf Wiedersehen, Devil Hunter Yohko. (He leaves.) Chi: (obviously angry at being ignored) Yohko Mano! How could you do this to your best friend?! Yohko: Do what, Chi? Chi: The most eligible bachelor to come around here for weeks, and you steal him from right under my nose! Yohko: Chi, I didn't steal him. He's just here to study Devil Hunting. Chi: Oh really? From the way he was looking at you, I'm sure he wants to study more than that! Yohko: Oh for crying out loud! Look, Chi, I'm not interested in this guy, OK? If you want to date him, I won't stand in your way. Chi: (looking hopeful) Do you really mean it? Yohko: Of course I do. Chi: (hugs Yohko) Oh, thanks a lot, Yohko! You're a true friend! Well, I've got to get back and do my homework, so I'll see you later, OK? Yohko: Ok, Chi. Bye! (Chi leaves.) Mano Family Residence Yokohama, Japan 4:30 PM (Inside the Mano family house. Yohko, Azusa, and Madoka are together in the living room.) Madoka: Yohko, Azusa, there's something we need to discuss. Yohko: What is it, Grandma? Madoka: Well, I've been performing some divination rituals, and -- (The doorbell rings.) Just a moment, let me get this. (She opens the front door, and Wolfgang is standing there wearing what appears to be a heavy backpack.) Ah! Wolfgang, my boy! I was wondering when you'd drop by! Wolfgang: (bows) Konnichi wa, Madoka-san. I have been looking forward to meeting you and your honored family. Madoka: You look just like your grandfather did when he was your age. (turning to Yohko and Azusa) Let me introduce Wolfgang Boeck from Germany. His family and ours have had a long and profitable association. Yohko: We've already met, thanks. Azusa: Pleased to meet you! I am Devil Hunter-in-training Azusa Kanzaki! Wolfgang: So there are more Devil Hunters now! Most interesting. Madoka: Perhaps you'd like to come down and see the Devil Hunting chamber. Wolfgang: Most definitely. (Madoka types the password on her computer, which causes the secret elevator to activate and take the group down to the Devil Hunting room.) Wolfgang: (looking around with extreme interest) Wow! This is quite the setup! (He sets down his backpack and takes out a device that looks like a Geiger counter. As he moves it past a shelf, it emits a lot of clicks. He then takes out a large Polaroid camera connected to a Tesla coil and points the coil at the shelf. It flashes for a second as he clicks the shutter. The picture comes out and Wolfgang examines it closely.) Hmmm.. these appear to be medallions of warding, and in perfect condition, if I'm not mistaken. Azusa: What's that you've got there? Wolfgang: Oh this? It's a Kirlian camera, designed to take photographs of auras. It uses a special UV-sensitive film and the ionization effect of a Tesla coil to make them visible. Oh, that reminds me. Would you and Yohko stand together over there, please? Yohko, hold this Tesla coil for a second. Yohko: What are you doing? Wolfgang: I want to get a picture of the aura of a Devil Hunter so I can figure out how your powers work. (He points the camera.) Say cheese! (He presses the shutter.) Yohko: Yow! (She casts a suspicious look at the coil.) Just what does this thing do, anyway? Wolfgang: A Tesla coil creates ionization by generating a pulse of 200,000 volts. Yohko: Geez, you could have told me that before! Wolfgang: (looking at the picture) Wow, those hair ornaments of yours sure are active, Yohko. (He pulls out his Geiger counter again and waves it past Yohko's head.) Yeah, I'm reading about 50 gellers. That's pretty hot. Yohko: What exactly is a "geller"? Wolfgang: It's a unit of psychokinetic energy defined as the amount of psi flux created by Uri Geller as he bends a standard stainless steel kitchen spoon. I invented it myself. You see, my goal in life is to bring magic into the realm of science. I've already made quite a bit of progress, but it's pretty hard to find good test subjects. Yohko: Maybe you should change your name to Dr. Venkman. Wolfgang: I think I'm more like Ray, myself. But seriously, one day I hope to make a real science out of the paranormal. If I succeed, then I might even be able to improve on Devil Hunting. Yohko: No objections there, as long as you don't replace us with robots. Madoka: All right. Now that you're all down here, there's something we need to discuss. I've been performing some divination rituals, and lately I've been detecting a dangerous buildup of demonic energy in the world. Yohko: Buildup of demonic energy? What do you mean? Madoka: I'm not really sure. It could be just a transient phenomenon, but it could also be an attempt by the demons to create another invasion of our plane. Wolfgang, have you noticed anything unusual in your studies? Wolfgang: Not really, but I'd have to be near the source to detect anything. Azusa: Auntie Madoka, could the demons really be trying to invade again? Yohko: Wait a minute, Grandma. *Another* demon invasion?! I mean, we've already beaten the Black Queen and Tokima! How many of these things are we going to have to go through, anyway?! Madoka: Well, they're not the only demons around, you know. Yohko, I'm afraid in my haste in making you a Devil Hunter, I've forgotten to teach you some of the basics of demonology. (Madoka takes a book off the shelf and opens it. Inside are pictures of various fiends and monsters.) You see, Yohko, contrary to popular belief, there isn't just one supreme "Devil" who rules all of Hell. Instead, Hell is ruled by many competing demonic factions who war constantly with each other for dominion. The factions are all pretty equally matched, though, so the wars continue forever and ever. Some people even say that the devils fight not to win, but just to experience the joy of destruction. However, that's only because they are prevented from fighting against the forces of Heaven. If they can find a way to invade Earth and control the human race, though, they will then be in a position to provoke an all-out war between Heaven and Hell; a war in which the human race will certainly not survive. So even if you stop one invasion, there will always be plenty of other Demon Lords who will want to try their luck. It's not an easy job, I'll admit; but it's ours. Yohko: Wow. That's heavy, Grandma. (pauses) So just where is this buildup of demonic energy, anyway? Madoka: I'm sure it's somewhere in eastern North America. I'll need one more divination to pinpoint the exact location. (Madoka gets a world map and several candles down from the shelf. She lights the candles, takes out a bag of runes, places a few on the map, then raises her hands.) Ona ma re no soka! Kora no hi ra moda! (The runes begin to glow, and lines of light shine out and connect them. As Wolfgang snaps several pictures, Madoka moves the runes around until the lines become brighter. She continues to move them around for a while, then stops, frustrated.) Damn! I can't get a fix on it! It's like there's some kind of interference. Wolfgang: (looking at his pictures) I think I might have an idea what's wrong. (He shows Madoka a picture.) See? It looks like this rune here is defective. Madoka: No wonder my divinations have been so fuzzy lately. Here, I'll get one of my spares. (Madoka gets another rune and tries the spell again. Suddenly, she gasps and stares into space.) Oh! Yohko: Grandma, are you all right? Madoka: (lets out a breath she's been holding) Yes! I've finally found it! Azusa: Where is it, Auntie Madoka? Where are the demons? Madoka: According to this, the source is located in (she points to the map) Washington, DC. Yohko: Washington, DC?! You're kidding, right? I mean, I heard American politicians were corrupt, but I never thought they were devil-worshippers! Madoka: I'm not so sure about that, Yohko. During the divination, I received an image of a dark cabal performing an evil ritual inside the Pentagon. It seems that whoever these people are, they are in fact highly placed in the U.S. government. Yohko: So what are we supposed to do, Grandma? We're Devil Hunters, not international spies! Madoka: I also received another image that may bode well. There are two people in that city who have strong auras of good about them. I sense that they will soon be coming here. You must find these people, Yohko. They can help you stop the demons. Yohko: There's only one problem with that, Grandma. I don't speak English. Madoka: What?! Just what the heck have you been studying in school all these years, girl? Yohko: Grandma, they teach us to *read* English, not to *speak* it! Wolfgang: I speak fluent English, Yohko. Madoka: It won't work very well if you have to interpret everything, Wolfgang. (Madoka opens a cupboard and takes out a box. She opens the box, which contains a golden amulet with a gem in the center.) Here. This is an Amulet of Anti-Babel. It translates all speech within a 20 foot radius. Wear it, and you'll have no problem communicating. (hands the amulet to Yohko, who puts it on.) Wolfgang: Fascinating. It probably creates a telepathic bridge between the language centers of the subjects' brains. Madoka: Now, I think it's time Azusa gained some more skill in being a Devil Hunter. She's shown lots of talent during her training, but I think what she really needs is practical experience. Azusa: Yeah! I'd really like to kill a demon by myself! Yohko: Well, Grandma, that would be great, but there just aren't any more demons around here to fight. What are you going to do, conjure one up? Madoka: Precisely! Yohko: What?! You can't be serious! Madoka: Yes! For centuries, Devil Hunters have kept their skills sharp during times of supernatural scarcity by the carefully controlled conjuring of minor demons and devils. Yohko: But Grandma, isn't conjuring demons... well, evil? Madoka: Not the way we do it. Black sorcerers use sacrifices to control the demons, but we use holy symbols to keep them from escaping. As long as the demon is properly confined, there's no danger. Yohko: Uh, I don't know, Grandma, I'm not so sure about this... Madoka: Great, then it's settled. In a few days, when the moon is right, we'll go to the town park and perform the ritual at midnight. Then, Azusa will become a true Devil Hunter! Azusa: Yay! I'm so excited! Wolfgang: I simply must get some pictures of this! Yohko: (sighs) How did I get into this family? END OF PART ONE Devil Hunter Yohko meets the X-Files ("Demon City D.C.") (C) 1995 Michael Franz The X-Files are (C) 1995 Ten Thirteen Productions and 20th Century Fox. Devil Hunter Yohko is (C) 1990 Japan Computer Systems and Toho, Inc. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- PART TWO FBI Headquarters Washington, DC 9:30 AM (Inside of the X-Files office. Mulder is working at his computer on something, surrounded by several open files. Suddenly, Scully comes in. Her hair is disheveled, as if she'd just woken up.) Mulder: Hey, Scully! Glad you could make it! Scully: Don't start with me, Mulder. First there's a power outage and my alarm clock doesn't go off, then I have to struggle through a traffic jam because I forgot Pennsylvania Avenue was closed off, and THEN the parking lot was almost full! Mulder: That's the joy of working for the government, Scully. Scully: (noticing that Mulder is busily typing at his computer) What's that you're working on? Mulder: Oh, Skinner wants me to prepare a psychological profile of some of the more radical militias to try and determine who poses the greatest threat. He wants me to prepare a report on that Aum Shinri Kyo cult, too, although why Skinner's concerned about Japanese terrorists is beyond me. Scully: Why would Skinner put you on that, Mulder? Isn't that a job for the counterterrorism unit? Mulder: Well, ordinarily it would be, Scully, but I guess he figured I was the perfect man to analyze the behavior of paranoid people with mental problems who think the government is out to get them. Scully: (laughing) Oh, come on, Mulder. I'll admit some of your theories are a little strange, but even you never believed that there were Soviet troops being kept frozen in a secret bunker to conquer the US! Mulder: It's people like that who give conspiracy theorists a bad name, Scully. Besides, everyone knows the bunker's full of frozen aliens. (pause) Hey Scully, I found this file in the computer that I think you'll find quite interesting. Scully: Let me guess. Bigfoot was sighted again? Mulder: Why are you always so down on Bigfoot, Scully? Is it so farfetched that the missing link between man and apes is still alive? Scully: Well, maybe not, but surely it would have been discovered by reputable scientists by now if it existed. Mulder: Well, let's not get into that right now, alright? Here, take a look at this file. (Mulder presses a few keys on his terminal, causing a blond girl's picture to appear on the screen.) Erin Ogden, age 19, reported missing from San Dimas, California two days ago. A witness reports seeing two figures dressed in black carry her out of her bedroom window, then drive off in an unmarked black van. Scully: Hmmm. Rather unusual transportation for little green men. Mulder: This isn't an alien abduction, Scully. This is just one of a series of kidnappings that have been going on around the country for the last three months. (Presses another key, causing a list of names to appear on the screen.) In total, 75 girls have been abducted. All of them are between the ages of 14 and 21, and they were all apparently taken from their homes at night. There was no sign of a struggle, suggesting the kidnappers probably used drugs, and only minimal signs of forced entry. Some of these houses even had alarm systems. Not only that, but this was the only case where anyone saw anything unusual. I tell you, Scully, whoever these guys are, they're professionals. Scully: You think it's a white slavery ring? Mulder: It's possible, Scully, but why go all over the country looking for girls? And why take all the trouble of kidnapping them out of their homes? Scully: So what's your theory, Mulder? Mulder: I think there's some kind of nationwide operation at work here, Scully. Whatever these guys are up to, they're trying real hard not to be noticed. If 75 girls disappeared in one state, all hell would break loose. But if only one or two do, it doesn't seem that suspicious. And the fact that they're being kidnapped from their homes suggests that these guys are carefully selecting their victims, probably after extensive surveillance. Scully: So? Wouldn't white slavers want to be selective? Mulder: Yeah, but these guys don't seem to be selecting girls just on good looks. Plus, I've never heard of any white slaver grabbing so many. No, Scully, I've got a feeling that whatever's going on here is more than that. Scully: You said they're not being selected on looks. Is there anything these girls have in common? Were they into drugs or sex? Mulder: No, as a matter of fact, all the girls' parents describe them as having impeccable characters. You know, the kind that go to church every Sunday. (Phone rings.) Mulder: (picking up phone) Mulder. (pause) Right now? And Scully too? OK, sir, we'll be right down. (hangs up) That was Skinner. He wants to see both of us in his office right now. Scully: Both of us? That's unusual. Mulder: Well, we'd better see what he wants. You know Skinner; he's a stickler for punctuality. (Cut to Skinner's office. Walter Skinner, Assistant Director of the FBI, is sitting at his desk. A cigarette is smoldering in his ashtray. Mulder and Scully walk in.) Skinner: Sit down, both of you. We need to discuss an important matter. Mulder: Sir, if it's about my requisitions, I can assure you, they were all necessary -- Skinner: Relax, Agent Mulder. I didn't call you and Scully in here to yell at you. In fact, the Bureau would like to express its appreciation for all your good work. Mulder: What? Sir, are you sure you're feeling alright? Skinner: Very funny, Agent Mulder. Have you finished those reports on the militias and the Japanese cult yet? Mulder: I should be finished by this afternoon, sir. Skinner: Good. Agent Scully, I need you to prepare a report on the latest advances in forensic medicine. Scully: Pardon me, sir, but why are you having Mulder and me do these reports? We're FBI agents, not cadets at the Academy. Skinner: I was just getting to that, Agent Scully. In two days, you and Agent Mulder, along with several other experts in various fields, will be going to a special Interpol conference on terrorism being held in Tokyo. Scully: Wait a minute. You want us to go to Tokyo?! Skinner: Yes, Agent Scully. Many people in the US and Japan are concerned about the recent terrorist activity in their countries, and so a special international conference is being held to discuss ways to increase security and prevent future incidents. Mulder: But sir, why us? I mean, why not send Jackson from counterterrorism? Skinner: I am. But you, Agent Mulder, happen to be one of the Bureau's best behavioral psychologists, and Agent Scully is a top-notch forensic physician. The Bureau is proud to have such qualified people represent it at this conference. Scully: But, sir... Skinner: You'd better get started on that report, Agent Scully. Your flight leaves in only two days. Dismissed. Garcia's Mexican Restaurant Washington, DC 12:13 PM Scully: (while eating a taco salad) You know, Mulder, I still can't figure out why Skinner picked us to go to this conference. Ever since we started with the X-Files, he's been on your back about something, always criticizing your performance. But now, he wants us to go halfway around the world to act as representatives of the best of American law enforcement! Mulder: (while eating a chicken chimichanga) And with only two days notice, too. Seems like someone's in a big hurry to get us out of town, Scully. Scully: Mulder, there are a lot easier ways to get someone out of town than sending them all the way to Japan! He could have sent us to Alaska, or Texas, or even some godforsaken place in Idaho, but instead he sends us to a high-profile conference to represent the entire FBI! It just doesn't add up. Mulder: Skinner doesn't really hate us, Scully. He's just under pressure from people higher up. Remember, he did give us back the X-Files when other people were trying to separate us. Maybe this is just his way of showing that he does appreciate us even though the rest of the government doesn't. Scully: Well, whatever the reason, I'll be glad to get back to Japan. Mulder: You've been there before? Scully: Yeah, I was an exchange student when I was in college. I stayed with this family just outside of Yokohama. They were just the nicest people. I'll have to look them up when we get to Tokyo. (Mulder's cellular phone rings.) Mulder: (answering it) Mulder. Mr. X: If you want to expose the government's conspiracies, Agent Mulder, then I suggest you come to our usual meeting place at midnight. Mulder: Why? Has something come up? Mr. X: Let's just say this is big, Agent Mulder. Bigger than you could possibly imagine. (Hangs up) Mulder: That was my informant, Scully. He wants me to meet him at midnight tonight. Scully: Did he say why? Mulder: He just said it was something big. I don't know, Scully, but for a minute he actually sounded worried, and that's not like him. Scully, this might be it. This might be the proof we've been looking for! Scully: Don't get too excited, Mulder. It could be anything. Mulder: Well maybe, Scully, but I've just got a feeling about this. Something tells me that whatever this is could be our biggest case yet. Washington Monument 12:00 AM (Mulder gets out of his car and walks toward a bench in front of the Washington Monument. As he gets closer, he sees Mr. X standing nearby.) Mr. X: Hello, Agent Mulder. Glad you could make it. Mulder: Alright, I'm here. So, what's this all about? Mr. X: (producing an envelope from underneath his trenchcoat) Here. This contains all the information you need. (Mulder takes the envelope, and Mr. X starts to walk away.) Mulder: Wait! What's this all about? Mr. X: You'll find out soon enough, Agent Mulder. Good night. (He leaves.) (Mulder gets in his car and opens the envelope. Inside is a map and a note which reads "Come to this old abandoned church at 11:30 tomorrow night. There, you'll find something *very* interesting." The note is signed "X.") Chevy Chase, Maryland 11:29 PM (An old church sits on top of a small hill near a lonely, deserted road. The church looks run-down and the windows are boarded up. Nearby, Mulder and Scully are parked in a surveillance van. Inside are several monitors and tape recorders. It looks suspiciously like the van from the beginning of the story.) Mulder: OK, Scully, do we have the infrared and low-light cameras? Scully: (flipping a switch, causing images to appear on the monitors) Yeah, everything appears to be working. (Glancing at the infrared image) There doesn't seem to be anyone in the church yet. Mulder: Yeah, I'm not picking up any unusual noises yet, either. Scully: Mulder, I'm still not clear on how you got this surveillance van on such short notice. Mulder: The guy in charge of the motor pool is a total space-case. I just told him we're doing a drug bust and he said he'd give me anything I wanted. Scully: I don't know, Mulder. If Skinner finds out -- Mulder: He'll find out *after* we've got our evidence, Scully. This could be our big chance to finally expose the truth, and I'm not about to pass it up. Are you with me? Scully: (sighs) What can I say? Of course I'm with you, Mulder. Mulder: Thanks, Scully. You're a true partner. (pauses) Wait a minute. I'm picking up several cars heading this way. (On the monitor, a car is seen pulling up to the church. After a minute, three other cars pull up and several people get out.) Person 1: (pointing to two others) You two stand guard outside and make sure no one interrupts us. (The two nod and get automatic weapons from the car's trunk. The others, about 10 men wearing nondescript suits, enter the church through an old, seemingly boarded-up door.) (Scene changes to inside the church. It is dark, but one man turns on a flashlight and lights several candles which are hanging on the walls. The church is a simple one-room affair with numerous candles placed all around the room. Instead of a sanctuary, however, the room contains a large pentagram inscribed with mystic runes on the floor. Inside the pentagram is what appears to be an incense burner. Other symbols are painted on the walls. There are red and black robes hanging on the walls, which the men quickly don. One man reaches for a more ornate robe inscribed with golden runes and symbols.) Person 2: Hey, what are you doing? That's the high priest's robe! Person 1: I'm filling in for him tonight. He's not coming. Person 3: What do you mean, he's not coming? He called this meeting -- Person 1: The high priest doesn't know about this meeting. I'm the one who called it. Person 4: Whoa, are you crazy? If we do anything without the high priest's authorization, do you know what will happen?! He'll -- Person 1: Never know about it! Listen, we've done these rituals a hundred times. We know them just as well as any of the priests do. Why should they get all the power and glory, huh? If we perform the rite of sacrifice ourselves, then maybe we can finally get our share. Person 2: Sacrifice?! You mean the girls? No way, man. We were specifically ordered to keep them here until the high priest retrieves them. If any of them are missing, he'll have our heads! Person 1: No! After tonight, we'll have power equal to theirs, maybe even greater! Listen, Azazel rewards those who please him, right? Well, what have the priests been doing lately? They've been grabbing all these girls, but they're not doing anything with them! Not even one has yet been sacrificed to his glory! Person 4: I'm sure the priests know what they're doing. Person 1: So do I! I know exactly what they're doing! They're building up to something big, perhaps even glorious! And while we do all the dirty work, Azazel will reward *them* for it! Don't you see?! This is our chance! For once, *we* can get the rewards! *We* can get the glory! All the dark powers of the Great One shall be *ours*! Now, are you with me? (The people shift uncomfortably and murmur among themselves.) Person 3: Um, are you *sure* this is going to work? Person 1: Of *course* I'm sure! Azazel will reward us! Come on, where's your *faith*? Person 2: We have plenty of faith in the Great One. It's *you* that we doubt. Person 1: Well, if you're so worried, then why don't you just leave, huh? We don't need any doubters here to corrupt the ritual! Person 2: Wait a minute. Are the rest of you going to stay? (The others confer with each other nervously.) Person 4: Yeah, I'm staying. I mean, if it doesn't work, we can always say that the girls escaped. Person 2: We'd be punished for that -- Person 3: Yeah, but the priests wouldn't *kill* us. Anyway, I think it's worth the risk. Person 5: Yeah, count me in. (The rest of the group signify their agreement.) Person 2: (sighing) Well, if the rest of you are going to stay, I guess I am too. Besides, there needs to be someone here who actually *knows* the ritual. Person 1: Ha! I'll show *you* who knows the ritual, Mister! Now, let's begin! You two, set up the altar! (Two people light the incense burner and place a metal table over it. The group arranges itself into a circle around the pentagram and the first person begins the chant.) Group: In the name of the lords of darkness, rulers of the earth, kings of the underworld, I command the forces of darkness to bestow their infernal power upon me. Person 1: Sein ist die Hand, die verletzt. (His is the hand that wounds.) Group: Sein ist die Hand, die verletzt. Person 1: Sein ist der Ort genannt Hoelle. (His is the place called Hell.) Group: Sein ist der Ort genannt Hoelle. Person 1: May the black powers of our forefathers make us strong. Group: Hail! Hail the lords of darkness! Person 1: O great Lord Azazel! Hear the prayers of your servants! Tonight we bring unto thee a gift; the life of a pure maiden. Her flesh is thine to consume; her blood is thine to drink, so that thy immortal thirst be slated. For this precious gift, we ask in return only that we may share in the reward thou hast promised for the faithful. O great Lord Azazel! Grant this, thy humble servants' request! Group: Hail! Hail the lords of darkness! (Two cultists go to the corner of the room and open a secret panel in the floor. Inside a dark hole are six girls, all bound and gagged, their clothes dirty and their faces streaked with tears. The cultists grab one and carry her, struggling, to the group. The first person draws a long, wavy knife and cuts the girl's clothes off, then throws them onto the altar. A cultist pours lighter fluid on them, then throws a match onto the altar.) Person 1: O great Lord Azazel! Let now thy altar be sanctified and blessed with thy dark power. For behold, this maiden has cast off the garments of her earthly life, and is prepared to assume the mantle of thy service. Group: Hail! Hail Azazel, the almighty! (The first person takes a pot of black pitch, then paints a pentagram on the girl's chest. The cultists then strap her to the altar.) (Outside, Mulder and Scully are listening to all of this and recording it on tape.) Scully: Oh my God, Mulder, we've got to do something! They're going to sacrifice that girl! Mulder: But what can we do, Scully? The minute we get close to that church, those two guys will shoot us full of holes. (Scully pauses to think a second. Then, she comes to a decision.) Scully: Get in the passenger seat, Mulder. (Scully climbs into the driver's seat.) Mulder: What have you got in mind, Scully? Scully: Just get in the seat, Mulder. And fasten your safety belt. (Scene changes back to inside the church.) Person 1: It is time, O great Lord Azazel, for thee to receive thy gift. In the name of thy unholy power, I command thee to arise and drink of this maiden's life! Group: Arise, arise! O great Lord Azazel, ARISE! (As the group continues chanting, the priest holds his knife high and removes the girl's gag. She emits a terrified scream as the priest prepares to plunge his knife into the girl's chest. Suddenly, there is a tremendous crash as the surveillance van drives through the front of the church. Mulder and Scully leap out, guns drawn.) Mulder: Freeze! FBI! You're all under arrest! (The two guards run through the hole, machine guns blazing, but Mulder and Scully duck behind the van and shoot them. The cultists panic and begin running every which way trying to escape. In the process, the altar is knocked over. However, the only way out is at the front of the church, which is being blocked by Mulder and Scully. Seeing that they cannot run away, the cultists try rushing the FBI agents. Mulder shoots one in the leg, but is quickly overpowered by the rest, as is Scully. While several cultists force Mulder and Scully down, two others take their guns and point them at their foreheads.) Person 3: You dare to defile our ceremony, unbelievers! Prepare to perish! (Just before he pulls the trigger, a sound is heard from the front of the room. The cultists look to see the first person holding a machine gun. Without warning, he opens fire on the group, killing all the cultists in the room, but missing Mulder and Scully. As the shooting stops, Mulder and Scully look around at the pile of corpses, and then look up at the first person, who has a perfectly calm expression on his face. He drops the gun, then stabs himself in the heart with the ceremonial knife.) END OF PART TWO Devil Hunter Yohko meets the X-Files ("Demon City D.C.") (C) 1995 Michael Franz The X-Files are (C) 1995 Ten Thirteen Productions and 20th Century Fox. Devil Hunter Yohko is (C) 1990 Japan Computer Systems and Toho, Inc. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- PART THREE Chevy Chase, Maryland 12:25 AM (The area outside the church is swarming with police cars and ambulances. Several people cordon off the area as the bodies are carted away. Other police are talking to the girls and to Mulder and Scully. After a while, the police finish their reports and leave. Mulder and Scully walk into the ruined church and talk.) Mulder: Scully, that girl they were going to sacrifice? That was Erin Ogden, the girl who was kidnapped from San Dimas! Scully: What? Are you sure? Mulder: Positive. I recognized the names of some of the other girls on the list, too. That means that this is a lot more than just some obscure cult. Whoever these guys are, there are bound to be more of them. Scully: You think this cult is spread all over the country? Mulder: No, it doesn't fit. None of the girls we found here was from this area, which means that these kidnappings are not local operations. Some central organization is behind this, Scully, and I'm guessing that the girls were brought here to be close to it. Scully: But why would there only be six girls here? Mulder: There's a lot of places to hide in the DC area, Scully. Spreading the girls out would minimize the loss if any were found, and it would also draw attention away from whatever central authority is behind this. Scully: So you're saying that all 75 girls were kidnapped as victims for an occult sacrifice? Mulder: Yes. Think about what that means, Scully. This isn't just some run-of-the-mill cult here; these guys have professionals who can grab any girl they want anywhere in the country. Scully, this is obviously a well- organized, well-funded organization. And now, they've got 69 girls somewhere who are probably all going to end up on an altar. Scully: But how is your mysterious Mr. X involved in all this, Mulder? He obviously knew exactly what was going to happen here. Mulder: He said that if I wanted to expose the government's conspiracies, we should come here. Scully: Yeah, but I can't see what that has to do with -- wait a minute. Are you suggesting that these kidnappings were orchestrated by the government?! Mulder: Well, it would explain the degree of professionalism as well as the girls being found in the DC area. Scully: Mulder, this is crazy! You're telling me that the United States government has kidnapped 75 teenaged girls for sacrifice in some kind of occult ceremonies! Mulder: Well, what other explanation is there? Scully: These kidnappers could still be white slavers, Mulder. They could have just sold the girls to this cult. Mulder: No, Scully, I don't think so. If Mr. X is involved, then I'm sure it's something much bigger than that. Mr. X: How right you are, Agent Mulder. (Mulder and Scully turn to see Mr. X walking down the hill towards them.) Mulder: What's going on here? Is the government behind this cult? Mr. X: Not so loudly, Agent Mulder. They have ways of hearing things from far away. I can usually block them, but it's best not to take chances. Scully: So what can you tell us about what happened here tonight? Mr. X: Agent Scully, you and Agent Mulder are scheduled to go to Japan in the morning, correct? Scully: Yes, we're booked on the 7:30 flight out of Dulles. Mr. X: Then I can tell you only that you will find further answers there. (He turns to leave.) Oh, one last thing. Remember Mrs. Paddock. (He leaves.) Scully: What on earth could he have meant by that? Mulder: You remember, Scully. Mrs. Paddock was that substitute teacher in New Hampshire, at that school where that cult tried to sacrifice us. Scully: So there's a connection between the two cults. Mulder: Obviously. But we never did find out everything about Mrs. Paddock. A lot of strange things happened when she was at that school, and afterwards she just vanished. No one anywhere has seen any trace of her. I think that whoever, or whatever, she is, she's definitely involved. Scully: This case is getting stranger all the time. If the government is involved in a conspiracy, what possible answers could we find in Japan? Mulder: Well, I guess we'll find out when we get there, won't we? Come on. (Mulder and Scully both walk toward their van and prepare to leave.) The Pentagon Washington, DC Time unknown (The scene is a dark room only dimly lit by several candles. On the walls, ceiling, and floor, several occult symbols can be seen. At the far end of the room is a large, ornate throne with a man sitting in it. His face, however, is shrouded in shadow and incense smoke. Suddenly, a door at the other end of the room opens, and Cancer Man walks in.) Cancer Man: My lord, I have urgent news. Hidden Man: Speak. Cancer Man: The girls in the old church have been found. It seems that our employees decided to perform a little ceremony of their own. Hidden Man: I know. It was I who put an end to their miserable lives. Cancer Man: You knew? Did you also know it was Mulder and Scully who found them? Hidden Man: Of course. Cancer Man: Then why on earth did you let them live?! Someone must have told them about the ritual. Who knows what else they were told. Hidden Man: If they were told about us, I would have known. Besides, you did tell Skinner to have them sent out of town, did you not? Cancer Man: Yes, but they could still be a threat! Hidden Man: Calm yourself. I have dealt with Mulder and Scully before. They pose no threat to our operation. Cancer Man: Well, I disagree. Those two keep getting closer to us at every turn. I say we terminate them! Hidden Man: There are many important things for me to attend to before the Great Ceremony can be performed. I do not have the time nor the energy to waste hunting down two insignificant specks of dust. Cancer Man: But sir -- Hidden Man: (sighs) Do what you will with them, but do not bother me again! Now go, and do not return until you are summoned. Cancer Man: (bows) Yes, my lord. (He leaves.) Hidden Man: Yes, Agent Mulder. Continue with your vain investigations. But soon, very soon, you and all your insignificant race will no longer be of any consequence. (He smiles, and his eyes glow red.) Imperial Hotel Convention Center Tokyo, Japan 3:30 PM (Scene is a crowded convention room filled with police officials from various countries. Flags from many nations are hung from the ceiling. At the podium, Mulder is just finishing up a speech.) Mulder: ...and so, through the use of psychological profiles, advance warning against possible acts of terrorism by dangerous fringe groups can be gained, thus making our world a safer place to live. Thank you. (The assemblage claps as Mulder steps down from the podium to find Scully waiting for him.) Scully: That was a good speech, Mulder. Mulder: Yeah, well, they seemed to like it. Personally, I'm not too sure about predicting acts of terrorism. Guys like that are just too chaotic. How did yours go? Scully: Well, I gave a talk on the collection and identification of DNA samples from crime scenes. It was pretty advanced stuff, but I got the feeling that most of the people had already heard most of it. So, what do you want to do tonight? Mulder: Well, let's do a little sightseeing around Tokyo before dinner. Then, let's go to this place I read about in the newspaper. They serve the best fugu in Japan. Scully: Fugu?! Mulder, you do know that stuff is poisonous, right? Mulder: That's why I'm bringing you along, Scully. You're a doctor; you can revive me after I eat it. Scully: Oh ha ha, Mulder. You can order it; I'm sticking to teriyaki. Mulder: Wimp. So, are we done with the conference or do we have anything scheduled for the other two days? Scully: No, we don't have anything scheduled. Jackson and the Oklahoma City guys will cover the rest. Mulder: Well then, we can see some more of Tokyo tomorrow morning, and then in the afternoon, we can go down to Yokohama and see this family of yours. Scully: What do you want to do the third day? Mulder: Let's see Mount Fuji before we leave, OK? Scully: Sounds good to me. Well, let's go find a tour bus. The Pentagon Washington, DC Time unknown (A man carrying a briefcase and wearing a nondescript black suit and sunglasses walks down a dark basement hall in the Pentagon. He reaches a door marked "BRIEFING ROOM 13 -- TOP SECRET -- ADMITTANCE REQUIRES GREEN CLEARANCE OR HIGHER". He inserts a key card into a slot next to the door and enters a code on the keypad. The door clicks open and the man walks in. Inside are an array of other men wearing similar outfits, including Krychek. At the head of the table is Cancer Man, smoking a cigarette.) Cancer Man: Now that we're all here, let's get down to business. By now, you've all heard about the little incident that took place at the old church. You've also heard about Mulder and Scully's involvement in that incident. This meeting is to decide what we should do about them. Krychek: Well, haven't Mulder and Scully been sent out of town? Cancer Man: Yes, but I feel that they could still pose a threat to our plans. I'm recommending immediate termination. Man 2: Wouldn't that draw attention? I mean, there'd be an investigation. Cancer Man: Investigations take time. We'd have completed the ceremony long before there would be any danger. Man 3: Well, if we're going to terminate them, I see no real difficulty in that. A drive-by shooting, a random mugging, there are lots of possibilities. Where did Skinner send them, anyway? Cancer Man: That's the problem. Skinner, in his less than infinite wisdom, decided to send them to the international terrorism conference in Tokyo. Man 3: Hmmm... You're right, our agents would be a bit too conspicuous in Japan. I wouldn't want to take the risk. Any of you got contacts in the yakuza? Man 4: The yakuza would never do it. There'd be too much police attention if they wasted any Americans. Krychek: So what do you guys want to do? Wait until they get back and then shoot them? Cancer Man: No! I want them dead now! Man 2: What does the big guy have to say about all this? Cancer Man: It seems he doesn't consider them a threat. Age has apparently addled our imperious leader's brain. Man 3: Well, as long as he can perform the ceremony, I don't care if he's got Alzheimer's. Cancer Man: Yes. And after the ceremony, we shall have no further use for him, won't we? Now then, about Mulder and Scully. Man 4: Sir, what if we use a demon to kill them? Man 2: No, it's too close to the ceremony. We don't have enough energy to justify sending a demon after them. Cancer Man: Hmmm... perhaps, if it was a small demon... Krychek: What have you got in mind, sir? Cancer Man: (smiling) Yes. I think I know just the thing. Thank you all for coming. This meeting is adjourned. (The suits all file out of the room in an orderly fashion. Cancer Man sits in his chair for a while, then walks over to the right wall and moves a picture frame, causing a secret door to open. Inside is another occult room with a pentagram on the floor. Cancer Man lights the candles and incense, then begins an incantation in a strange tongue. As he chants, the candles are blown out and the pentagram begins to glow. Slowly, a smoky shape with red eyes begins to form.) Demon: Why have you summoned me? Cancer Man: I wish that two mortals be terminated. Demon: A simple task. Who are these mortals? Cancer Man: I believe you are already familiar with them. Fox Mulder and Dana Scully. Demon: (hisses) Mulder! Yes, I know that name. He was there when I was cast out, banished to the netherworld. He denied me my chance at life. Now, he shall lose his! Cancer Man: Good! Now, go! Find Mulder and Scully, and do not return until they lie dead! Demon: (laughs) It shall be my pleasure, master! (The demon disappears.) Cancer Man: (smiles) Now, Agent Mulder, it seems you have interfered with me for the last time. Yokohama, Japan 4:30 PM (A bus stop in a quiet neighborhood near a forest. The bus pulls up, and Mulder and Scully get out.) Mulder: OK, now where does this family live? Scully: They live a few blocks down that way, I think. Follow me. (Mulder and Scully walk down the street a little way. Suddenly, a poster on one of the fences catches Mulder's eye. It bears a picture of Yohko in her red Devil Hunting outfit holding a sword.) Mulder: Hey Scully, this poster looks kind of interesting. What does it say? Scully: Let me see that, Mulder. (Scully studies the poster intently for a few seconds.) Wait a minute. This can't be right. Mulder: What does it say, Scully? Scully: (still reading) What the hell? You've *got* to be kidding me. Mulder: Scully, *what does it say?* Scully: It says, "Are you being bothered by evil spirits? Then let us take care of all your Devil Hunting needs! If you or anyone you know is haunted, possessed, or cursed, then call Devil Hunter Yohko Mano right away! We guarantee that it'll be a cold day in Hell before the demons ever come back! Reasonable rates. We accept Visa and Mastercard." Mulder: Hmmm... wait a minute, Scully! This could be what we're looking for! Remember, Mr. X said we'd find more information when we got to Japan! Well, what better person to ask about a devil-worshipping cult than a Devil Hunter? Scully: (giving Mulder a look) Mulder, please. This has got to be a joke. There's no such thing as demons or devils, much less Devil Hunters. Mulder: Now, now, Scully, I thought you were a good Catholic. Scully: Don't start with that, Mulder. The Catholic Church doesn't officially believe in exorcisms anymore. That went out with the Inquisition. Mulder: And what about what happened with the Calusari, huh? You told me that Charlie's dead twin brother Michael almost killed you! Scully: It couldn't have been, Mulder. I know I was attacked by something, but it's likely that fear and hysteria combined with constant exposure to your talk about the supernatural created a temporary hallucination. Mulder: Likely?! Scully, I'm a psychologist and you're a doctor. How likely is it for such a thing to happen, really? Scully: (uncertainly) Well, things like that *have* happened before, Mulder. It's the only possible explanation. Mulder: (sighs) You know what I think? I think that you encountered something that was totally contrary to your belief system and your mind is trying to convince you that it was a dream in order to preserve that belief system. It's a classic sign of denial, Scully. Face it. Scully: (also sighs) All right, Mulder. I'll at least consider the *possibility* that what attacked me that night was supernatural. But there's no way that I'm believing in Devil Hunters that take Visa and Mastercard! Mulder: Well, maybe not, Scully, but still, Mr. X has never been wrong before. We should at least check it out to see if they know something. Scully: Well, all right, Mulder. You realize, of course, that since I'm the only one who knows Japanese, *I'll* have to talk to them. Mulder: Yes, Scully. I hope that isn't too traumatic for you. (Mulder and Scully walk down the street until they get to Yohko's house. Scully rings the doorbell.) Scully: I can't believe I'm at the door of a total stranger ready to ask them if they hunt devils, Mulder. This had better be worth it. (Azusa answers the door and is surprised to see two foreigners there.) Azusa: Gaijin da! (pauses) Ano, sumimasen. (bows) Konnichi wa, gaijin-sama. (Foreigners! Um, excuse me. Hello, honorable foreigners.) Scully: Konnichi wa. Mano Yohko-san ga imasu ka? (Hello. Is Yohko Mano here?) Azusa: Eeto, chotto matte kudasai. Yohko-san! Dooa no tokoro ni anata to hanashitagatte iru gaijin ga futari imasu! (Um, just a second. Yohko! There are two foreigners at the door who want to talk to you!) (Yohko comes running down the hall to the door. Note that the Amulet of Anti-Babel is translating from here on.) Yohko: Hi! What can I do for you? Mulder: Hey, Scully, she speaks English! Yohko: Well, actually... never mind. So, what can I do for you? Scully: Since she speaks English, *you* talk to her, Mulder. Mulder: Oh, all right. (to Yohko) We wanted to ask you about that poster we saw with your picture on it. Yohko: (looking embarrassed) Oh, that. Well, my friend Chi put that up as a kind of joke, see. I'm not really into anything weird like that. Scully: See, Mulder? I told you it was a joke. (to Yohko) Shitsuree- shimasu. We're sorry for bothering you. (She turns to leave.) Yohko: Wait a minute! You two wouldn't be from Washington, DC, would you? Mulder: Yeah, that's right. How did you know? Yohko: Great! You're the two my grandmother said were coming here! Look, I just said that stuff about the poster being a joke because I didn't want total strangers coming in and harassing me. In truth, I really am a Devil Hunter. Scully: (sighs) Just when I thought things were getting back to normal... Mulder: You actually hunt demons and devils? How is that done, exactly? Yohko: Hold on, I have to let my grandmother know you're here. Grandma! Those people from Washington are here! Madoka: Ah! So they are! Welcome, welcome! Take off your shoes and come in. Sit down and have some tea. (Mulder and Scully come in and sit down. Madoka goes into the kitchen and brings out some tea.) Madoka: Here you are. Scully: Arigato. Madoka: Please permit me to introduce myself. I am Madoka Mano, this is my granddaughter Yohko, and this is Azusa Kanzaki. She's in training to become a Devil Hunter. Mulder: Nice to meet you. I'm Fox Mulder of the FBI, and this is my partner, Dana Scully. Madoka: The FBI? I didn't know they were interested in this sort of thing. Scully: You have no idea. Actually, we're investigating a series of kidnappings in the United States. We found some of the kidnapped girls in the custody of a devil-worshipping cult, and, well... we were told that we could find more information on them here. Madoka: *You* were told? Very interesting. I was also told that *I* could get answers from *you*. Scully: Don't tell me you have some kind of cult here, too. Madoka: No, I think both of us are seeking answers on the cult in your area, Ms. Scully. Kidnapping girls... hmmm... (pauses) You say they are devil-worshippers. Do you by any chance know the name of the devil they worship? Mulder: I think I heard them mention the name Azazel a few times. Madoka: Azazel! Yes, I remember that name. I had a run-in with some of his followers a while back. I think there's an entry on him in the Encyclopedia Daemonica. Follow me. END OF PART THREE Devil Hunter Yohko meets the X-Files ("Demon City D.C.") (C) 1995 Michael Franz The X-Files are (C) 1995 Ten Thirteen Productions and 20th Century Fox. Devil Hunter Yohko is (C) 1990 Japan Computer Systems and Toho, Inc. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- PART FOUR (Madoka, Yohko, and Azusa go into the room where the elevator to the Devil Hunting chamber is. Mulder and Scully follow as Madoka starts the elevator. Soon, they reach the Devil Hunting chamber. Wolfgang is already there conducting experiments on some of the items.) Madoka: This is where we keep all the Devil Hunting paraphernalia. Let me see if I can find the encyclopedia. Just a minute. (Madoka begins rummaging through the shelves.) Mulder: (noticing Wolfgang) Who's that? Yohko: Oh, that's Wolfgang. He's an exchange student from Germany who wants to scientifically study the paranormal. Mulder: Sounds like my kind of guy. Hi Wolfgang, I'm Fox Mulder and this is my partner, Dana Scully. (They shake hands.) Yohko: Mr. Mulder and Ms. Scully are with the FBI. Mulder: Just Mulder and Scully, please. Wolfgang: The FBI, hmmm? Well, that makes sense, considering your government seems to be behind the buildup of demonic energy. Scully: "Demonic energy?" Azusa: Yeah, Auntie Madoka performed some kind of divination and said that there was a lot of demonic energy building up in the Pentagon. Scully: (sotto voce) I don't believe this. Mulder, how much longer are we going to have to listen to this nonsense? Mulder: Scully, they know about the government connection. Scully: Mulder, we don't even know for sure if there *is* a government connection! Mulder: Well, that's what we're here to find out, isn't it? So just relax, and try to keep an open mind about this, all right? Scully: OK, but I still think this talk about "demonic energy" is crazy. Madoka: (takes a book inscribed with a pentagram off the shelf) Ah! Here we are! Let's see... Aeshma, Asmodeus, Azazel! (She shows the book to the group, which has a picture of a very large and hideous demon.) Azusa: Wow! That's pretty scary! Yohko: Nice. I wouldn't want to meet him in a dark alley. Madoka: Azazel is a very powerful Demon Lord, Yohko. He is very dangerous. Once, when I was your age, I had to stop some of his followers from casting a spell that would allow him to invade this world. Yohko: Really? What happened? Madoka: It was during World War II. As the end of the war neared and Japan and Germany saw that defeat was rapidly approaching, they were ready to try anything to win. A group of higher-ups in the military decided to try the supernatural, so they found a mad old sorcerer living in a cave in the mountains with a small group of Azazel-worshippers. The Germans also decided to get involved and they sent a troop of SS men to supervise. That troop was headed by a young, ambitious officer named Heiko Boeck. Wolfgang: Yes, Heiko was my great-uncle. Before the war, my family fled to Switzerland, but Heiko joined the Nazis and worked his way quickly up the ranks. Anyway, the plan was to get the sorcerer to conjure up an army of demons to defeat the Allies. He was crazy, but quite skilled, and Heiko was a willing and able pupil. They abducted a large number of young women, all of whom were virgins and pure of heart, and the sorcerer planned to sacrifice them and open up a portal into the demon plane, allowing an army of demons to come through. Madoka: Of course, the sorcerer was quite mad. He thought that once the demons were here, he could control them. He didn't realize that they would simply kill every living thing they found, including him. My mother discovered what was happening through her divination and planned to stop them. Wolfgang: My grandfather had also discovered what was happening. He and Grandma used a crystal ball to keep track of Heiko and help with the German resistance. When they found out what Heiko was doing, Grandpa went to Japan to try and stop him as well. Madoka: When my mother got there, the ceremony was already beginning. The sorcerer sent his demon guards after her, but she defeated them. Then, she went after the sorcerer himself. This proved to be a big mistake, because Azazel had already taken over his body and was thus able to materialize. Mother fought bravely, but Azazel was too much for her. Just as it seemed as if she was doomed, I stepped in and called upon my own Devil Hunting powers. I, too, fought Azazel, and this time the odds appeared to be on my side. However, Heiko had other plans. Using the magic he had learned, he cast a spell of paralysis on me, leaving me helpless against Azazel. Wolfgang: Luckily, my grandfather was there. He used some magic charms along with some of Heiko's old clothes to turn Heiko's power back on itself, leaving Heiko powerless. Since Heiko's power and the sorcerer's were linked, this weakened Azazel. After that, Madoka was able to finally finish the fight and banish Azazel to the netherworld. Madoka: Yes. And now, from what you've told me, Ms. Scully, it seems that someone in the United States is trying to perform a similar ceremony. They must be stopped at all costs! Scully: Yes, well, this is all very interesting, but I think Mulder and I will be going now. Won't we, Mulder? Mulder: Scully, I think we should at least find out some more information on this thing. Scully: Mulder, let's *go*! These people are giving me the creeps. Madoka: I see your partner does not believe, Mulder. That is understandable, but we have no time for it! The fate of the world is in our hands, and we have no time to lose! Mulder: Well, I don't know... Madoka: If you require proof of what we say, then come to the Yokohama City Park at midnight. There, we shall give you a demonstration of our powers. Mulder: OK, we'll be there. Won't we, Scully? Scully: Fine, Mulder. Let's just go now. Mulder: (bows) Arigato, Madoka-san. It was nice talking to you. (Outside the house. Mulder and Scully are walking down the street.) Mulder: Scully, why did you want to leave so quickly? That woman was giving us valuable information! Scully: That woman was crazy, Mulder! All that talk about demon invasions, the end of the world. The mental hospitals are literally full of those cases. I feel sorry for those poor girls, having to live with such a person. Mulder: People in mental hospitals don't usually know about criminal cases going on halfway around the world, Scully. Scully: Coincidence. Besides, I didn't think that even you would believe a story as insane as that! Demons in World War II, really! Mulder: But what if, Scully? We know that a lot of girls were abducted, we know that they were all young and pure of heart, and we know that someone's already tried to use them in occult ceremonies. We also know, or at least strongly suspect, that the government is involved. Doesn't that all add up to something? Scully: Well, maybe someone is trying to perform some kind of occult ceremony. Maybe they even tried in back in World War II. But that still doesn't mean that the ceremony will actually work! Mulder: Well, how do we know it won't, Scully? Remember, a lot of strange things happened when we ran into that cult in New Hampshire. A man confesses to us about his involvement in the cult, then is apparently eaten and digested by a snake in only a few minutes. When that cultist killed the others and then himself, you said it looked like something was controlling him. And the same thing happened when we met the cult in DC! Besides, Scully, whether the ceremony will work or not, someone obviously believes it will, and there are at least 69 girls out there who are going to be murdered for a sacrifice unless we do something about it! Scully: Well, all right, Mulder. I'll concede that this does warrant an investigation. Now, can we go visit my old host family now? I'd like to talk about something besides demons for a while. Mulder: (smiles) Sure, Scully. Just lead the way. Holiday Inn Yokohama, Japan 11:23 PM (Mulder is in his room watching an adult movie on cable. There is a knock at the door. Mulder answers it to find Scully there.) Mulder: Scully! You don't have to be here so early. We don't have to be at the park until midnight. Scully: Well, I was getting bored just sitting in my room doing nothing, so I thought I'd come in here and watch TV with you. Mulder: TV?! Well, I'm not sure that would be such a good idea... (Scully walks over to the TV and sees several nude Japanese people engaged in an orgy.) Scully: (sighs) I should have known you'd be able to find the porno channel in any country, Mulder. Mulder: Don't think of it as porn, Scully. Think of it as a study on how Oriental mating practices compare to ours. Scully: Mulder, you are incorrigible! What's Skinner going to think when he finds an adult movie charge on your hotel bill? Mulder: The bill's written in Japanese, Scully. How's he gonna know? Scully: I'll translate it for him. Mulder: You wouldn't! Scully: Try me. Mulder: (sighs) All right, I'll turn off the movie. Satisfied? Scully: Yes. For now. Now, let's turn on the news. I want to see what the latest is on that Asahara character. (As Mulder reaches for the remote control, the power suddenly goes out in the room.) Scully: Hey! What's going on here? (A breeze starts blowing inside the room.) Mulder: Scully, are the windows open? Scully: (uneasily) No, Mulder, they're all closed. (A low moan starts to filter through the room. Suddenly, there's a flash of light, and Mulder and Scully are thrown across the room and held against the wall by an invisible force. A disembodied voice begins to speak.) Voice: Hello, Mulder. It's been a while. Mulder: Who are you? What's happening here? Voice: (laughs) You don't know me? Well, *I* most certainly know *you*! You were the one who denied me my one chance at life on this world! Mulder: Where are you? Show yourself! Voice: You wish to see me? Very well. It shall be the last thing you see before you die. (A cloudy shape materializes in front of Mulder and Scully. As they watch, the shape takes form as a young boy with a furious expression.) Scully: (frozen with terror) Oh my God, it's him! Mulder: You're Michael, aren't you? Charlie's dead brother. Michael: Ah, so you do know me after all! If it wasn't for you, I could have had Charlie's life. I could have had a chance on this world! But no, you cast me out, condemned me to existence in the netherworld forever! Well, since you denied me life, it seems only fair that I should take yours! (He makes a gesture with his hand, and a wicked- looking knife appears.) Mulder: If it's me you want, let Scully go. She has nothing to do with this. Michael: On the contrary, Agent Mulder. She has everything to do with this. It seems you both have done something to get on my master's bad side. Mulder: And who is your master? Azazel? Michael: So you know him, too! I can see my master was wise to send me. He is one of those who serves the great Lord Azazel. I believe you and he have known each other for a long time. Mulder: But who is he? Michael: And why should I tell you, mortal? Mulder: Well, you're going to kill me anyway. Consider it a last request. Michael: I don't do requests, Mulder. Suffice it to say that he has a great love for cigarettes. Mulder: Cancer Man! I should have known he'd be involved in this. Michael: Enough of this idle conversation. Let's get on with the fun, shall we? (He puts his knife up against Scully's face.) I think I'll start with her. It will be most entertaining to watch your reaction as your partner screams in agony. Scully: You'll never get away with this. Someone will hear us. Michael: (laughs) That's why I've soundproofed the room, Agent Scully. After all, it would be impolite if I woke up the other guests. (He raises his knife.) When the police come in the morning, all they'll find is two mangled corpses, and no answers. (His eyes glow red as he prepares to strike. Suddenly, the door to the room bursts open and Yohko enters.) Yohko: Dark powers whose black deeds escape even the light of the moon, behold now the radiance of the power of love! Michael: What?! Who's there? Yohko: I shall destroy all who dare threaten this world! (Yohko begins to glow, then her clothes fly off her body and are replaced by a red dress with a yin-yang symbol on the chest.) Yohko: I am the Scourge of Evil, the 108th generation of Devil Hunter... Yohko! (Mulder and Scully look on in amazement.) Michael: Neat trick, but I'm not impressed. You shall be the first to die! (Michael shoots a beam of energy at Yohko, who flips over him and lands in front of Mulder and Scully.) Yohko: Soulsword, appear! (Yohko's sword appears in her right hand. She swings it in front of Mulder and Scully, cutting through the energy which holds them onto the wall.) Michael: No! That's impossible! (His eyes glow even brighter as he rushes toward Yohko with the knife. Yohko swings her sword and chops through Michael's arm. The arm and the knife instantly vanish. Michael screams in agony and frustration. Yohko then sets down her sword and puts her hands together, causing a ball of energy to form inside them.) Yohko: Your time here is over, demon. Now begone, or I shall destroy you and you shall be forced to wander the depths of the netherworld forever! Michael: You haven't seen the last of me, Mulder! I shall be back! (Michael screams, then fades into nothingness.) (Mulder is amazed by what just happened. Scully is in total shock.) Scully: Mulder, did that just happen? Mulder: Yes, Scully, it did. Scully: Mulder, that really was a... demon, wasn't it? Mulder: I'm afraid so, Scully. Scully: (falling to her knees) This is just too much. There has to be an explanation! I mean, maybe we were given drugs, or LSD, or -- Mulder: (grabbing her shoulders) Scully, look at me! It wasn't a halllucination, it was real! I saw it, too. How can two people possibly hallucinate the same thing? Scully: Mulder, this is just... just... incredible! I mean, it was real! It really was real! Yohko: Boy, she's having some trouble dealing with this, isn't she? Mulder: Well, Scully's a hardened skeptic when it comes to the supernatural. Even though we've investigated dozens of strange cases like this, she still doesn't want to believe. Yohko: If you've seen this kind of stuff before, then how could she not believe? Mulder: As Doctor Who once said, the human species has the most amazing capacity for self-deception, matched only by its ingenuity in trying to destroy itself. Madoka: (entering the room with Wolfgang and Azusa) How right you are, Mulder. And as long as this remains true, beings like Azazel will always have willing followers. Scully: How... how did you know? I mean, about the demon. Wolfgang: Madoka felt that something like this might happen, so I put a Demon Detector outside your hotel room. (He holds up a small device.) When the alarm went off, Yohko came rushing over here. Mulder: There's so many things I want to ask you. I mean, how long has this Devil Hunter thing been going on? How did it get started? Madoka: Your questions will all be answered, Mulder. Now, would either of you like to accompany us to the city park? We're going to give Azusa some practice at Devil Hunting. Mulder: I'll go. I think Scully has had enough supernatural excitement for one night. Madoka: It will be hard for her, but she must learn to accept what she has seen, for without belief there can be no defense. Come, Mulder. Mulder: Scully, will you be all right by yourself? Scully: I'll be fine, Mulder. I just have to work this out, that's all. Wolfgang: We won't be far away. Here's the Demon Detector. If the alarm goes off, run. All right? Scully: All right. Thank you, Wolfgang. Madoka: And now, on to the park for some real Devil Hunting! Azusa: Oh, I'm so excited! I can't wait! END OF PART FOUR Devil Hunter Yohko meets the X-Files ("Demon City D.C.") (C) 1995 Michael Franz The X-Files are (C) 1995 Ten Thirteen Productions and 20th Century Fox. Devil Hunter Yohko is (C) 1990 Japan Computer Systems and Toho, Inc. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- PART FIVE Yokohama City Park 12:00 AM (Yohko, Mulder, Azusa, Wolfgang, and Madoka are at the park. Madoka is laying out a large pentagram with a golden rope. When she finishes, she places runes at regular positions inside it and steps back.) Madoka: There! That should be about right! Mulder: Great. Now, I'd like to know a little bit more about this Devil Hunting thing. Madoka: Of course, Agent Mulder. Let me tell you the story of how the Devil Hunters began. (Flashback to ancient Japan.) Madoka: A long time ago, when Japan was being born, the first emperor Jimmu unified the warring tribes into one nation. However, the Demon Lord Tokima used his power over space and time to open a gateway into Hell, allowing hordes of devils to invade Japan. At the time of the first emperor, the devils held the land in terror, bringing plagues and destruction upon the innocent villagers. The magicians and priests tried to fight them, but there were simply too many. Then, one day, the god Raiden appeared to defy Tokima's rule. He did not fight Tokima directly, for that would have started the war of Armageddon; however, it was within Raiden's rights to issue a challenge to Tokima, declaring that there would be a battle between the Demon Lord and a mortal champion of Raiden's choice. If this person won, Tokima and his demon armies would return to Hell. Tokima countered that if Raiden's champion lost, the gods would accept the demons' rulership of Earth. The two representatives of Heaven and Hell accepted these terms and sealed their agreement with a magical geas, and it is under this agreement that all future conflicts between the mortal world and Hell would take place. The Emperor brought forth the greatest warriors of the land, but Raiden refused them all. That night, however, the Emperor was visited in his dreams by the goddess Amaterasu, who told him to travel through the villages disguised as a lowly beggar. In each house where he spent the night, he was to secretly leave a gold coin as he left. The person who returned the coin to him, she said, was the champion he sought. So, the Emperor wandered through the countryside for many days. Many offered him hospitality, but none returned his gold coins. Then, one day, he reached what seemed to be the poorest village of all. They were farmers, but the demons had burned many of their crops, so the people were hard-pressed to find food for themselves, much less a traveller. Despite this, an old farmer and his family graciously offered him their hospitality. The Emperor felt sure that such a generous family must contain his champion, and was delighted to see that the farmer had many strong sons who looked quite suitable. The next morning, he left his gold coin and bade them farewell. As he walked away, however, he heard a voice behind him. Haruka: Sir! Is this yours? Madoka: He turned to see the farmer's youngest child, his only daughter, running after him. The girl bowed, then held out her hands nervously. Haruka: Please do not think we are thieves, Sir. I swear to you that I found it where you slept. I have only come to return it to you. Madoka: The Emperor looked at what she held, and was stunned when he saw his own gold coin! At that moment, the sky suddenly grew dark, and a great rumbling of thunder was heard. Raiden: *IT IS DONE.* [A flash of lightning comes out of the sky and strikes the girl and Emperor, who instantly disappear.] Madoka: The next moment, they found themselves in the Imperial Palace. The girl gasped at the sight of the former beggar, now dressed in his full imperial regalia, but when she saw the luminous form of Raiden, her heart almost stopped! She fell to the ground in awe, but Raiden lifted her up and looked into her eyes. Raiden: My child, your world faces a great peril. The forces of Darkness have come to claim rulership over all of humanity, but I have challenged their claim. I am not permitted to fight them myself, so I must choose a champion to fight in my stead. Haruka: R -- Raiden-sama, I beg your forgiveness, but what has this to do with me? Raiden: [holds up the gold piece] This is the lot which we cast among your people. The one the Heavens have chosen is the one who would return this to its rightful owner. [Haruka is absolutely stunned.] Haruka: That's impossible -- you can't mean -- (She pauses, then throws herself at Raiden's feet again.) Oh, great Raiden-sama, I would never presume to question thy judgment, but -- but -- why *me*?! Raiden: Because, my child, it is your destiny. Haruka: But I am just a humble farmer's daughter! I know naught of war and fighting! How can one such as I possibly contend with such terrible darkness? Raiden: You need not fear, my child. All the power that you require will be granted to you, save one that you must provide yourself: your will. If that is strong enough to conquer the demons of fear within yourself, then you will be strong enough to conquer the demons of Hell. Do you understand, my child? [Haruka hesitates as she struggles with her emotions, but eventually stands up and bows formally.] Haruka: Hai, Raiden-sama. I will do as you command. Raiden: (smiles) What is your name, my child? Haruka: My name is Haruka Mano, Raiden-sama. Raiden: (stands up and raises his hands) Then let all Heaven and Earth bear witness. I, Raiden, God of Thunder, hereby declare my champion to be Haruka Mano! In the name of He who rules on high, grant her the power to triumph over evil! [Suddenly, a whirling cloud forms around Haruka and lifts her off the ground. The sounds of wind and thunder echo through the palace as lightning flashes around the girl. Suddenly, the wind rips off Haruka's clothes just as a great flash of lightning blinds the onlookers. When they open their eyes, the wind is gone, and Haruka stands before them wearing the uniform of a Devil Hunter.] Madoka: And that is how the Devil Hunters came to be. Azusa: Oh, I just love hearing that story! It's so awesome! Yohko: Yeah, I suppose. I've always wondered what her family must have thought. (pauses) I suppose I could have asked her, but we were busy with other things at the time. Mulder: Wait a minute. I thought this all happened thousands of years ago. Yohko: Well, yeah, but Tokima opened up this hole in time, and... well, it's a long story. Madoka: Well, enough reminiscing. Let's get on with the conjuring, shall we? Yohko, since I've retired from Devil Hunting, you should perform the incantation. Yohko: But I don't know the first thing about conjuring demons! Madoka: Don't worry. (hands Yohko a book) Just read the incantation in this book, and put all your concentration into holding the pentagram together, OK? Azusa, transform into your Devil Hunting outfit and stand inside the pentagram. We're about to begin! (Azusa's clothes transform into her Devil Hunting outfit and she steps into the pentagram. Yohko raises her hand and begins the incantation.) Yohko: Spirits of evil, spirits of night; spirits who ever shun the light; Rise now to this place from the depths of Hell; And obey my commands; be bound by my spell! (Yohko makes a gesture with her hands, then beams of light shine from her hair ornaments and connect with her ring. The pentagram also glows with a bright light. Suddenly, a shape begins to form inside the pentagram. The shape slowly coalesces into a monstrous black form with horns and wings. It is featureless except for its glowing red eyes, and it is so black that the black of night seems bright as day by comparison. It tries to fly away, but is stopped at the border of the pentagram. It then emits a terrible scream and prepares to fight.) Madoka: A Shadow Demon! Well, this will prove to be a most interesting challenge. Azusa, be careful! A Shadow Demon's breath or touch can drain your energy! Azusa: (looking determined) Right, Auntie Madoka! Spear of Fuma, appear! (Azusa's spear appears in her right hand. She holds it at ready as the Shadow Demon flies toward her with its claws outstretched. Azusa dodges and swings at the demon, which jumps back and hisses at her. Azusa twirls her spear and jumps at the demon, striking its wing. The demon screams and emits a blast of totally black breath at her. Azusa rolls away and delivers a thrust into the demon's chest. A hole forms in the chest, but quickly closes much as a hole in a cloud of smoke would.) Madoka: Azusa! Use light in your attack! Make your weapon glow! (Azusa concentrates, then makes a quick swing at the demon's wing. When the spear strikes, it creates a flash of light that dissipates the wing and makes the demon scream in pain. In retaliation, it lets out another blast of breath. Azusa tries to dodge, but trips on a rock and is touched by the black cloud. She tries to get up, but fails.) Azusa: Auntie Madoka! I can't move my legs; they feel like ice! Madoka: Quick, Azusa! Concentrate all your energy into one great blast of light! (Azusa closes her eyes and holds her hands together. A ball of light begins to form inside them. The demon growls and begins to move towards her.) Madoka: Now, Azusa! Now! (Just as the demon is about to strike, Azusa holds out her hands, causing a bright blast of light to shine forth. A terrible scream is heard. When the light dies down, the demon is gone and Azusa lies unconscious on the ground. Yohko breaks the spell and the pentagram stops glowing.) Yohko: (gasping for breath) Boy, that was hard work keeping that demon confined! Madoka: I know, but it will get easier with practice, Yohko. (turns to Mulder) So, what did you think of our little demonstration, Agent Mulder? Mulder: Pretty impressive. I'd say even Freddy Krueger would think twice before coming here. Yohko: Hey, Grandma, is Azusa all right? Madoka: (examining Azusa) She's just worn out from her fight. The Shadow Demon's breath only touched her a little. After a warm bath and a good night's sleep, she'll be good as new. Wolfgang: (examining his pictures) It's incredible. The Shadow Demon is actually darker than the background on these pictures. It's almost as if it had a negative aura. Madoka: Shadow Demons are composed of negative energy. That's why their touch is so dangerous. Well, it's getting late. We'd best pack up and go back home. (Wolfgang picks up Azusa while Madoka collects the rope and magical symbols. The group then leaves the park. Nearby, a garbage man stares open-mouthed at the scene.) Garbage Man: Did I just see that? (shakes his head) Nah. I'd better lay off the sake. (He leaves.) The Pentagon Washington, DC Time unknown (In the occult room. The Hidden Man is sitting on his throne, still shrouded in incense smoke and shadows. Cancer Man enters the room and bows before the throne.) Cancer Man: We have completed the setup of the pentagram focusing elements, my lord. They should be fully charged by tonight. Hidden Man: Excellent. What about the girls we require? Cancer Man: Don't worry. Our men are in the process of re-acquiring them as we speak. However, there is one problem... Hidden Man: Oh? And what is that? Cancer Man: The ancient documents you gave us say that we need a daughter of a king at the center of the ceremony. We've found a likely candidate, and our Special Forces team is ready to move in, but I'm not sure she's quite suitable for the ceremony. What I mean is, we can't find any young princesses who are still pure of body. Hidden Man: (laughs) Is *that* all that's bothering you? It seems you haven't learned the ancient tongue quite well enough. The word you translate as "king" actually means any ruler of a country. There is a person quite close to you who fits the criteria precisely. Cancer Man: Well, even so, I still don't see... wait a minute. You can't mean -- Hidden Man: That is exactly who we mean. Cancer Man: Well, for crying out loud, why didn't you just *tell* us? We could have saved all the trouble of arranging the Special Forces team. Hidden Man: I had thought it would be obvious. Prepare the ritual baptism pool for her, and remember, she must be taken at least 24 hours before the ceremony! Cancer Man: Yes, my lord. We will begin at -- (Suddenly the room is filled with a cold wind. A dark shape materializes in front of the throne and transforms into Michael, still missing one arm.) Cancer Man: Ah, so you've returned. Have you dealt with Mulder and Scully? Michael: No, master. Cancer Man: What?! How dare you disobey my commands! For that, I shall wrack your spirit! (He raises his hands in preparation for an incantation.) Hidden Man: (raises a hand) Wait a moment. We would question him first. (Cancer Man lowers his hands.) What has happened to your arm, Michael? Michael: (falling to the floor) Oh great Lord, please forgive my incompetence. I swear, I shall redeem myself in your eyes if I am given but the chance! Hidden Man: Oh, cease your groveling, you miserable imp. Merely answer our question. Michael: (looking up) Oh great Lord, it was like this. I was sent by my master to kill Mulder and Scully. I had them in my grasp when suddenly, this girl comes in. She does some trick that made her clothes change, then pulls out a sword and cuts off my arm! Cancer Man: If you think I will believe your pathetic lies, demon, then you are mistaken! A sword, indeed! Everyone knows that a demon cannot be harmed by mortal weapons. Hidden Man: Hmmm... You say she "pulled out" a sword. Was she carrying it, or did she just make it appear? Michael: Well, now that you mention it, oh great Lord, she did just make it appear. Hidden Man: And when this girl "changed her clothes", as you say, was she wearing a red dress? Michael: Yes! Oh great Lord, you are truly all-knowing! Hidden Man: (pauses) Thank you for that information, Michael. (He gestures, and Michael's arm re-forms.) Now, you are dismissed. Michael: Oh thank you! It is my pleasure to serve, oh great Lord! (He vanishes.) Cancer Man: Why did you let him go? He failed in his task and must be punished! Hidden Man: (sighs) Sometimes you can be desperately obtuse. Did it never occur to you to ask why your pet demon had only one arm? As you said, mortal weapons cannot harm him. So, what does that leave you with? Cancer Man: A magical weapon? But how would Mulder and Scully -- Hidden Man: Mulder and Scully are of no importance. The girl who bested your demon, however, is of great interest to us. She is Yohko Mano, the 108th generation of Devil Hunter. Cancer Man: Devil Hunter? You mean to say that this girl can actually kill a demon? Hidden Man: For 2,600 years, the Devil Hunters have fought demons using their hereditary magical powers. Once, we encountered one of their kind, and she was able to prevent us from claiming our rightful place on this earth. Cancer Man: Then this Yohko is a threat to us? Should we send our assassins to terminate her? Hidden Man: You are so impatient, aren't you? In order for her to threaten us, she must come to us, most likely in the company of Mulder and Scully. (smiles) And when she does, this time we shall be ready for her! Cancer Man: Right! I'll notify all the international airports to look for Mulder and Scully and arrest them and their companions on sight. Hidden Man: Do that. If you catch them, bring them before us. We want to have the satisfaction of dealing with them personally. Cancer Man: (bows) Yes, my lord. (He leaves.) Hidden Man: So, there shall be another confrontation between us and the Devil Hunters! Let it be so, for this time shall be their ultimate defeat! Ha ha ha ha ha! Washington, DC 3:00 PM (Scene is outside a private school just as classes are ending for the day. A Middle Eastern man is walking by, minding his own business. Suddenly, two dark-suited men step out and grab him. Before he has a chance to struggle, one of the men holds up a magic charm and shines a red light into the man's eyes. The two suits then whisper something into the man's ear and hand him an automatic weapon. A limousine pulls up to the school and two Secret Service men get out. Another two Secret Service men escort Chelsea Clinton down the stairs towards the limo. Just as she is about to step into the car, the Middle Eastern man runs out and begins firing his machine gun at the car. Bystanders scream and scatter as one of the Secret Service men is shot. The other three quickly push Chelsea into the bullet proof limo, then draw their handguns and shoot the gunman. The two dark-suited men watch and smile.) The White House Washington, DC 4:12 PM (Inside the Cabinet briefing room. Bill, Hillary, and Chelsea are seated at one end of the table. Chelsea is crying as Hillary comforts her. Several Secret Service men are at the other end, accompanied by the two dark-suited men from the school. One of them stands up and speaks.) Man 1: Mr. President, we're all deeply disturbed by the incident that occurred this afternoon at your daughter's school. I can assure you, all available measures are being taken to ensure that this will not happen again. Bill: I want to know who did this. I want to know who tried to kill my daughter! Man 1: Sir, we were able to get an ID on the perp through Interpol. (Presses a button, which causes an image to appear on a TV set at the front of the room.) The man's name was Hakim Al Azred. According to records, he was heavily involved with radical terrorist factions in both Iraq and Syria. (Presses the button again, causing an image of a blown- out building to appear.) He's been linked to two car-bombings in Lebanon and at least one airplane hijacking. Bill: But he's dead now. Is that it, or will another maniac take a shot at her tomorrow? Man 2: Sir, at this time, we really can't say. Most of Hakim's former associates are either dead or in prison, but there might be a few still at large. Plus, you know how unpredictable terrorists are. When word of this gets out, it'll probably inspire at least a hundred other factions to try and take revenge. Hillary: So what are you guys going to do about it? Man 1: Mrs. Clinton, at this time we feel that the best option would be to place Chelsea in protective custody at a safe house until we can track down any other potential threats. The terrorists won't know where she is, and we'll have a full armed guard 24 hours a day just in case. Bill: Why do you need to do that? I mean, what's wrong with White House security? Man 2: (pauses) Sir, I didn't want to tell you this before because I didn't want to alarm you, but we've uncovered evidence which suggests that these terrorists may have an inside source inside the presidential security staff. We have several suspects currently under surveillance, but we don't want to put your daughter at any unnecessary risk. Man 1: Trust us on this, sir. We're professionals. Bill: (pauses) All right. I guess we'd better, just to be safe. (turns to Chelsea) Chelsea, honey, pack your things. You're going to have to stay at a safe house until this thing blows over. Chelsea: Why did this have to happen? I mean, why couldn't I have been born just a normal kid instead of the presidential daughter? Hillary: Now, Chelsea, calm down. These men are here to protect you. They won't let anything bad happen to you. OK? Chelsea: Are you sure? Do you promise? Man 1: (smiles) Yes, Chelsea. We promise. (Outside the White House. Chelsea and the two men get into a limo with darkened windows along with a couple other Secret Service men. Bill and Hillary watch as the limo drives off. Inside, Chelsea squirms nervously as she looks around at the armed men sitting next to her.) Chelsea: Now, you're sure the terrorists don't know where we're going, right? Man 2: Don't worry, Chelsea. No one will find you. In fact, no one will ever see you alive again! (One of the agents sitting next to Chelsea pulls out an injection gun and pumps a dose of tranquilizer into her. The car pulls into an alley, where the men stuff Chelsea into a bag marked "TOP SECRET" and throw her in the trunk. The car drives up to the Pentagon, where the men all flash their IDs to the guards and drive down into the parking garage. A secret door opens, and the car drives inside. The door closes, leaving no indication that it was ever there.) END OF PART FIVE Devil Hunter Yohko meets the X-Files ("Demon City D.C.") (C) 1995 Michael Franz The X-Files are (C) 1995 Ten Thirteen Productions and 20th Century Fox. Devil Hunter Yohko is (C) 1990 Japan Computer Systems and Toho, Inc. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- PART SIX Narita International Airport Tokyo, Japan 12:30 PM (At the ticket counter for Japan Air Lines. Mulder, Scully, Yohko, Azusa, and Wolfgang are standing in line, waiting to check in.) Scully: Mulder, why are we leaving so early? We were supposed to go back on the 6:30 flight. Mulder: Because the government might be looking for us. If we take the 3:00 flight, we might be able to get to the Washington airport before they do. Scully: Are you sure we're going to be able to get tickets for everyone on such short notice? Mulder: I already checked. There's enough open spaces on this flight. (Pats his wallet.) I'm just glad I brought my American Express card instead of a Visa, or we'd never be able to pay for everything. Scully: I can just see you trying to explain to Skinner why there's an extra $4000 on your expense account. Mulder: Scully, when we get back to Washington, we'll have to explain to Skinner that the government is about to conjure an army of demons to destroy the world. I think that money will be the least of his worries. Azusa: Oh, I'm so excited! I've never been to America before! Yohko: Well, we're not exactly going there on vacation, Azusa-chan. Aside from the fact that "DC" now stands for "Demon Central", Washington has one of the highest murder rates in the civilized world. Mulder: Yeah, plus our mayor was once arrested for snorting coke. Scully: Oh great, Mulder. Ruin their perceptions of America. Why don't we just tell them that J. Edgar Hoover liked to dress in women's clothing? Yohko: Who's J. Edgar Hoover? Scully: Never mind. Mulder: You know, that's one thing I can never figure out. If Japan is such a polite and peaceful nation, how come they make movies like "Urotsukidoji" that are so full of sex and violence? Scully: For the same reason they like American films like "Terminator 2", Mulder. Nobody likes violence in real life, but everyone likes to watch it at the movies. It's a way of safely indulging the darker side of one's nature. (pauses) You watched Urotsukidoji? Mulder: Well, yeah. It *does* have a great plot, you know. Scully: Oh, sure, Mulder. And I suppose the adult manga I found in your suitcase was just more "research" into Asian culture. Mulder: Oh, come on, Scully. Everyone in Japan reads those. I mean, "When in Rome..." Scully: (smiles) Well, Mulder, if you're so eager to be "Roman", then why didn't you try the traditional Japanese bath? [Mulder blushes. Fortunately, he is spared further embarrassment by the sudden appearance of Chi, who runs up to the group, breathing heavily from sprinting.] Chi: Yohko Mano! Just what do you think you're doing?! Yohko: What? What did I do, Chi? Chi: I went over to your house, and your grandmother told me you were going to America to work on a case! How could you just run off without notifying your manager first? Yohko: (sighs) Chi, I think you're taking this manager thing a little too seriously, OK? We're on a mission to save the world, not to get rich! Chi: And what's wrong with getting paid to save the world? You could probably get at least 50 million yen for something like that. What sort of case is this, anyway? Azusa: We're going to stop some people in the Pentagon from conjuring an army of demons. Chi: The Pentagon?! You mean this case involves the U.S. government? Oh, boy! You should be able to get 100 million for that! Yohko: And you'd get 10%, of course. Chi: Of course. That is the standard fee for business managers. (A voice suddenly comes out of the airport paging system.) Pager: Fox Mulder, Mr. Fox Mulder, please pick up the white courtesy phone. Scully: I wonder who could be calling you at the airport? Mulder: Well, I'll know soon enough, won't I? (Mulder walks over to the information counter and picks up the white courtesy phone. On the other end is a familiar voice.) Mr. X: I wouldn't advise taking that flight, Agent Mulder. Mulder: What do you mean? Mr. X: I mean they've already alerted the authorities at all U.S. international airports to arrest you and Scully on sight, along with anyone who's with you. Mulder: Damn! So now what are we supposed to do? Mr. X: I don't know, Agent Mulder, but I do know you must get to Washington by midnight two days from now. That's when the ceremony will be held. The fate of the world is in your hands, Agent Mulder. Don't let me down. (hangs up) (Mulder pounds the counter in frustration and walks back over to his group.) Scully: Well? Mulder: That was Mr. X. He said the government's watching all the airports. If we fly into the United States, the immigration authorities have orders to arrest us all on sight. Scully: And no doubt some men in black will be around to collect us afterwards. (pauses) Mulder, what if we use our federal IDs to get through the security gates and bypass immigration? Mulder: No, they've probably thought of that. Wolfgang: (holds up a bag of runes) Well, I could always try to cast an illusion spell on the immigration officers so they don't recognize us. (He frowns.) Although, if they were watching really closely, I don't think it would work. Mulder: Then we'd better not take the chance. There has to be some way we can get into the country! If we could just find a way to get past the airport... (pauses) Wait a minute! Canada! Scully: What about Canada, Mulder? Mulder: That's how we'll get in! We'll fly into Toronto and drive back to Washington! Scully: How can you be sure they haven't alerted the border guards there, too? Mulder: Because they're bureaucrats, Scully. Anything original or creative is beyond their ability to comprehend. Besides, we stand a much better chance of escaping if we're in a car than we would in a crowded airport filled with security guards. Scully: You've got a point, Mulder. Mulder: Also, we should keep our old reservations. If they're checking the flights, they might be delayed long enough for us to get into Washington before they know it. Scully: Just one thing, Mulder. Is there any space on the Toronto flight? Mulder: Just a minute, I'll check. (Mulder goes over to a pay phone and talks for a minute.) Well, they said the only space they had was in the first class section. Scully: Mulder, do you have any idea what a first class transpacific flight costs?! Mulder: Come on, Scully. We're going to save the world. We should travel in style. Scully: (sighs) I guess we'll have to add another six thousand to your American Express. Mulder: You know, Scully, for once they were right. I *am* glad I didn't leave home without it! The Pentagon Washington, DC Time unknown (In an ordinary-looking office. Cancer Man is seated at a desk, smoking a cigarette. The door opens, and Krychek walks in.) Krychek: Sir, I just received word from our people at the airport. Mulder and Scully had reservations on the 6:30 flight out of Tokyo, but they weren't spotted by any of the immigration personnel when it landed. None of the other airports have reported seeing them either. Cancer Man: They must have changed to another flight to try and avoid us. (smiles) But we'll have them sooner or later, no matter where or when they arrive! Have you checked the records for any other flights? Krychek: I'm having the records searched now, sir. The results should be here momentarily. (Krychek's cellular phone rings. He answers it, and suddenly becomes nervous as he listens to the other end of the line. With trembling hands, he folds up the phone and puts it in his pocket.) Uh, sir, we may have a problem. Cancer Man: Problem?! (He stands up, staring Krychek in the face.) What problem would this be, then? Krychek: Uh, well, I just got the results of that records search you wanted. Cancer Man: And?! Krychek: And, um, we found Mulder and Scully's flight. Cancer Man: Don't just stand there like an idiot, man! Which flight was it? Krychek: (sweating) Well, sir, it appears they took the 3:45 flight to... uh... to... Cancer Man: (impatiently) To? Krychek: Toronto, Canada. Cancer Man: Well, what's the problem? The border guards will still catch them when they try to cross. Krychek: (swallowing) Well, sir, uh, you only told me to alert the airport authorities, sir. The Canadian border guards were, uh... never informed. Cancer Man: (exploding with rage) WHAT?! (grabs Krychek by the shirt) You IDIOT! They're probably across the border by now! (releases Krychek and controls himself with an obvious effort) I want them found NOW, do you hear me?! Alert our contacts in the military. Set up roadblocks around the city. Have our men watch their apartments, their friends' houses, anywhere they could be going! The ceremony is tomorrow night, and I won't have it disrupted by those two punks and their Devil Hunter friends! Now, GET MOVING! Krychek: (running out of the office) Y-Yes, sir! Cancer Man: All the power I've ever wanted is so close I can almost taste it. This city, this country, this entire *planet* will be mine, and this time I won't let that bastard Mulder get in my way! DO YOU HEAR ME, FOX MULDER?! THIS TIME YOU WON'T GET IN MY WAY! Just outside Washington, DC 4:00 AM (Inside an all-night truck stop. Mulder and Scully are drinking coffee, while the others drink soda. The store's sound system is tuned to one of those old junky AM stations playing country music. Two truckers sitting next to Mulder and Scully are talking and drinking beer.) Trucker 1: Ha ha! Hey, remember that time you tried to pick up that bitch in Jersey, and it turned out she was a cop? Trucker 2: (laughing) Yeah, that was quite a night. She said she was going to arrest me for sexual harrassment, and I said, "Baby, you can put the cuffs on me any day!" Trucker 1: Yeah, and she almost did, too! Woooo-eee! Trucker 2: Yeah, that was great. (He finishes his can of beer.) Well, I think we'd better get going now. Trucker 1: Why the hurry, Bob? We don't have to get the cargo in until 5:30. Trucker 2: Well, I just heard from old Norton on the CB that they've got roadblocks all around DC. Trucker 1: (laughing) What, are you afraid they'll find your stash of joints? Trucker 2: No, man, these ain't no cops. Norton said it was the Army what set these things up. Trucker 1: The Army? What in tarnation's all that about? Trucker 2: I don't know, but Norton said they was giving folks a lot of trouble. We'd best get there early if we want to make it on time. Trucker 1: (standing up) Yeah, you're probably right. I was in the Army once, and I know them dudes can be a real pain. Let's go, then. Trucker 2: Hey, maybe there'll be some chicks in uniform down there! Trucker 1: Yeah, then we can show them how long our M-16s can stand at attention! (The two truckers leave, still laughing. Mulder and Scully frown.) Yohko: What was all that about? Mulder: They've set up roadblocks around Washington, DC to catch us. Apparently they've found out about our little trick. Chi: Oh, this is so exciting! It's just like a James Bond movie. Yohko: Yeah, well, James Bond could just fly over the roadblocks in his rocket car. We can't. Scully: Well, we don't need to get into the city just yet, Mulder. We can just call Skinner and see if he can find a way for us to get through the roadblocks. Mulder: Well, it's worth a try, Scully, but we'd better not use the phones. Fortunately for us, Skinner has a CB radio in his house. We'll just ask one of these truckers if we can call him on their CB. Scully: Mulder, I hardly think Skinner would leave his radio on at 4:00 in the morning. Mulder: I'll call his pager number and send him a message. It'd be pretty difficult to tap that on short notice, so I think we'll be safe. Scully: Yeah, but there's still the problem of Skinner being asleep. Mulder: You obviously haven't heard Skinner's pager go off. It's loud enough to wake the dead. (Cut to Skinner's house. Skinner is in his bedroom, quietly snoozing. Suddenly, an ear-shattering beep rings out. Skinner quickly sits up, shocked into wakefulness. He turns on the light, then fumbles around on his nightstand for his pager. When he presses the button, the pager displays the message "CALL ME ON CB 19. MULDER." He gets up, puts on his bathrobe, and walks down the stairs into his basement, where he has his radio set up. He turns it on and sets the frequency to CB channel 19.) Skinner: (sleepily) Hello, hello. This is Walter Skinner. Is anyone there? Mulder: Hello, sir. This is Mulder. Skinner: Agent Mulder, what the hell is going on here?! I got woken up at 2:00 in the morning by the director, who said that the Army was surrounding the entire city with roadblocks. The only information I could get out of them was that they were under orders straight from the top to search for and apprehend two fugitives who were a threat to national security. Judging by the nature of your call, I've got a pretty good idea of who those fugitives are. Now, would you mind telling me just what the hell you did to get the entire armed forces of the United States after you? Just where are you, anyway? (Cut to the truck stop parking lot. Mulder is sitting inside the cab of a grocery store truck talking on the CB.) Mulder: I'm at a truck stop just outside Washington. Listen, sir, I can't explain everything right now, but believe me when I say this is bigger than anything we've ever dealt with before. The information we have is absolutely vital, and the government conspirators will do anything to stop us from using it. We've got to get into the city, and we'll need your help to do it. Skinner: (sighs) Oh, boy. So it's finally come to this, has it. If I help you, the military will probably have me killed. If I don't, then some terrible conspiracy will take place. (pauses) You know, Mulder, I never really liked those people. The only reason I was always harassing you was because that's what they wanted. So, if this is your way of trying to get back at me, well, you've got the wrong guy. Mulder: Sir, please. This is a matter of national security! Skinner: Where have I heard that before? (sighs) Oh, all right, Agent Mulder. I'll help you. Mulder: Thank you, sir. Is there any way you can get us past the roadblocks and into the city? Skinner: I don't think so, Mulder. They've got every street covered. And there's no way they'd let me through without a search. They know I'm sympathetic to you guys. No, I don't think there's any way around the roadblocks. Mulder: (turns to Scully) Skinner says he can't get us around the roadblocks. Any ideas? Scully: Well, I don't really know. (pauses) It's too bad Agent Hanson isn't here. She could probably get us in. Mulder: Who's Agent Hanson? Scully: Oh, she's this friend of mine who works in the surveillance division. She's really good at sneaking into places. (pauses) Wait a minute! That's it! Mulder: What, you mean we should call Hanson? Scully: No, Mulder. I just thought of something. Hanson likes to save gas by riding the Metro to work every day. It also occurs to me that there are several Metro stops outside the city limits. Mulder: Scully, you're a genius! But how can we be sure they're not watching the subways? Scully: Well, you're the one that said that bureaucrats can't think of anything original. They're concentrating so much effort on the roads that they won't have any time to think of anything else. Mulder: It's risky, but it's definitely worth a shot! (turns back to the radio) Sir, meet us at the downtown Metro station as soon as the trains start moving. We'll take the subway from Bethesda and go under the roadblocks. Skinner: I'll be there, Agent Mulder. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'd like to salvage what little sleep I can before the military conspirators come and shoot me. Mulder: Thank you, sir. Good night. END OF PART SIX Devil Hunter Yohko meets the X-Files ("Demon City D.C.") (C) 1995 Michael Franz The X-Files are (C) 1995 Ten Thirteen Productions and 20th Century Fox. Devil Hunter Yohko is (C) 1990 Japan Computer Systems and Toho, Inc. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- PART SEVEN Downtown Metro Station Washington, DC 6:45 AM (Scene is a Washington subway station during the early morning rush. Walter Skinner is standing on a platform, glancing occasionally at a timetable. Suddenly, a subway car pulls into the station. Skinner watches as Mulder, Scully, Yohko, Azusa, Wolfgang, and Chi get out.) Mulder: Hello, sir. Nice to see you. Skinner: Cut the crap, Agent Mulder. I want to know what's going on here, and I want to know right now! Mulder: (glances around at the masses of commuters) Well, I don't think this is the best place for us to talk, do you? Let's find somewhere a bit more private. Skinner: Yeah, you're right. Let's go; I know just the place. (The group walks down the hallway to the subway office. A sign on the door reads "AUTHORIZED PERSONNEL ONLY." Skinner barges into the office and flashes his ID at the surprised security officials inside.) Skinner: Walter Skinner, Assistant Director, FBI. We're going to have to borrow your office for a few minutes. Officers: But... hey, wait a minute! Skinner: Get lost, people. This is official government business. (He shoves the officers out the door, still protesting, then he closes the door and locks it.) All right, Agent Mulder, now just what the hell is going on here? (He notices the others.) And who the hell are these people? Mulder: Sir, do you remember that file I sent to you a few days ago about the series of kidnappings that were going on around the country? Skinner: You mean the one where all the girls were being kidnapped? Yeah, I remember that. Mulder: Were you also aware that Scully and I found six of those girls in the custody of a satanic cult who were about to sacrifice them? Skinner: You found them?! Why the hell didn't you file a report? Scully: Sir, it was just before we went to Japan. We didn't have time to file a report. Skinner: Hmm... wait a minute. I do recall reading a police report on the incident you just described, but I didn't look at it too closely since all the suspects were dead. Mulder: Not quite all the suspects, sir. The reason we found the girls in the first place was because Mr. X told us to go there. He also told us that the girls were kidnapped by agents of the government. Skinner: The government?! Do you have any evidence to back that up? Mulder: No, but I think the government's response to our having this information is proof enough, don't you? Skinner: Hold on a minute. That doesn't sound like much of a conspiracy to me. If all the government did was kidnap some girls, why are they after you if you don't have any evidence against them? Mulder: (clears his throat) Well, sir, this is where it gets really interesting. Skinner: I was afraid you were going to say that. Mulder: As I said, the girls were found in the custody of a satanic cult. We have reason to believe that this cult is being run by an agency of the government and that they intend to sacrifice the girls in a ceremony at midnight tonight. Skinner: Whoa, whoa, wait a minute here. You're saying that these government agents actually worship the devil?! Mulder: Well, *a* devil anyway, sir. Apparently, there's more than one. Skinner: (pauses) Well, Agent Mulder, this is all pretty strange, but at least it explains why the government wants you so badly. Do you know where this ceremony will be held? Mulder: Inside the Pentagon, sir. Skinner: The Pentagon?! Oh, boy. (pauses) So what do you want me to do, Mulder? Order a search of the Defense Department's headquarters? There's an awful lot of top-secret stuff in there, you know. They'd never let me do it unless I had some pretty strong evidence to back me up. Mulder: No, if we searched the place, that would just tip them off. Besides, I'm sure that they've hidden themselves too well for that. I was thinking more along the lines of waiting until they start the ceremony and then raiding them. Skinner: That might put the hostages in danger, Mulder. Besides, where am I going to get the authority to raid the Pentagon? Wolfgang: I have an idea. If I went into the Pentagon this morning, I could scan for sources of demonic energy and find the place where they've got it stored. With any luck, we might be able to find out where they're hiding. Skinner: Mulder, just what the heck is he talking about? You still haven't told me who these people are. Mulder: Well, sir, uh, this is Wolfgang, and they're Yohko, Azusa, and Chi. We brought them with us from Japan to help us with this case. Skinner: Mulder, what is going on here? How can a bunch of kids help you with this case? Mulder: (pauses) Well, sir, uh... this may be a little difficult for you to believe. Skinner: Mulder, I've read your case files. Everything you investigate is a little difficult for me to believe. Mulder: Well, this may be just a bit *more* difficult, sir. You see... oh, how should I put this... Yohko and Azusa are Devil Hunters. Skinner: *Devil Hunters*?! Chi: Yes, and I'm their business manager! If my clients are going to perform a job for you, then I expect them to be well paid, preferably in advance! (Skinner gives Mulder a steady look.) Skinner: Let me get this straight. You spent Bureau money to bring some kids here all the way from Japan so that they could fight off evil spirits and monsters?! Mulder: Well, uh, sir, we believe that the other side is working for a Demon Lord named Azazel. They're here to prevent any supernatural intervention. Skinner: (pauses) Mulder, I think this time you've finally gone off the deep end. I mean, you've done some strange things before, but this! This is just too much! And Scully! You just stood by and let him do this?! Scully: Well, sir, uh, I felt it was in the best interests of this case. Skinner: God, you've both gone crazy! All that ghost-hunting and paranoia have finally gone to your heads. I don't know what the government's up to, but there's no way I'm believing that it involves devils and demons! I suppose this ceremony is supposed to open a gate into Hell or something. Azusa: That's right! How'd you know that? Skinner: (pounding his head against the wall) Great. Just great. The government's turning the city upside down because of some secret project and the only ones who know anything about it have gone stark staring mad! Wolfgang: I see you're skeptical about the existence of the paranormal. If you've dealt with Mulder's cases before, why does this one come as such a great shock? Skinner: And I suppose you're a Devil Hunter, too. Wolfgang: No, I'm a scientist who studies the paranormal. But you still haven't answered my question. Skinner: Well, I'll admit, Mulder's cases are usually pretty strange. But I put up with all those oddities because his cases have often turned up evidence of illegal conspiracies and experiments by the government. I love my country, and I can't wait to finally put those guys away. But when I do, I'd like it to be on a charge other than witchcraft. That sort of thing went out with the Puritans. Wolfgang: (smiles) You think so, do you? Well, then, watch closely. (He removes some runes from his bag and puts them in his hand, then begins chanting softly. Suddenly, horns grow out of Wolfgang's head and his teeth become sharp fangs. As Skinner watches, a horrible black demon bursts out of Wolfgang's skin and begins growling furiously. Skinner backs away in terror as several tentacles shoot out of the demon's chest and grab him. The demon laughs and bares its fangs. Skinner screams.) Skinner: No, no! Oh God, no!! (Suddenly, Skinner looks around to find the demon gone. In its place stands Wolfgang, holding several glowing runes. The others look at Skinner questioningly.) Scully: Sir, what happened? Skinner: (shaking) It -- it was horrible. He -- he turned into some kind of monster! Scully: What are you talking about, sir? All I saw was Wolfgang chanting something. Skinner: You mean -- none of you SAW it?! (Everyone shakes their heads.) Yohko: Wolfgang, just what did you do to him? He's scared to death! Wolfgang: I cast an illusion on him. It made him see me as a horrible monster. Yohko: It must have been pretty convincing! Wolfgang: Well, illusions are the easiest form of magic. All it takes is a few runestones and an active imagination. Skinner: That -- that was incredible! I mean, I saw him turn into a monster! I SAW him! Scully: (pats his shoulder) I know, sir. That's how I felt when I first saw a demon. It's rough at first, but once you deal with it, it isn't so bad. Skinner: Once you deal with it, she says! I had enough trouble dealing with everything before. Now, I've got government-sponsored demons and monsters to deal with! (sighs) I think I need a drink. Mulder: Sir, before you drown your sorrows, we need a plan as to how we're going to stop these guys. See if you can arrange for some men to raid the Pentagon at midnight. Get as many as you can, and arm them with heavy weapons. Skinner: And just how am I supposed to do that? My men would never raid the Pentagon without military authority. Mulder: Well, then, get some! In fact, it might be a good idea for the military to help out with this raid. Skinner: But you just said the military were the ones performing the ceremony! Mulder: Only some of them. But you're right, it might be hard to find people we could trust. Wait a minute, I know! This sort of authority should come straight from the top. Skinner: What do you mean? Mulder: I mean, call the President and tell him what's going on. He can get us in there without them knowing about it. Skinner: Mulder, do you seriously expect me to call the President of the United States and tell him that the military is going to open a gate into Hell?! Mulder: No, just tell him that the military kidnapped those girls and that they're going to kill them tonight. Let the Devil Hunters worry about the rest. Skinner: And you think he'll believe me? I have no evidence! Mulder: Then make some up! Tell him you have several witnesses who saw the girls being dragged into the Pentagon and that they overheard the soldiers talking about the ceremony. Tell them you have an inside source in the military who told you about it. Tell him whatever it takes, but get his authorization! This is too important to screw up! Skinner: All right, all right. I'll call the Secretary of Defense today and see if he can put me in touch with the President. Now, what are you going to do? Mulder: Well, Scully and I can stay with you and back you up if you need it. We should lay low so that none of the government's agents sees us. Wolfgang's going to go into the Pentagon this morning when it opens and scan for any traces of demons. See if you can arrange him some clearance. Skinner: OK, that shouldn't be too hard. We'll just say he's there to check the building for radon. So, while we're doing that, what are your Devil Hunter friends going to do? And for that matter, how are two little girls like that supposed to face down the forces of Hell? Yohko: Hey, who are you calling little, you jerk! I'll have you know I've already saved this world from two demon invasions, and I'm quite capable of doing it again! Azusa: Yeah! You tell him, Yohko! Mulder: Well, there's nothing for them to do right now. The government sent a demon after us in Japan, but they'd probably just use their agents here. I don't know; the government probably doesn't know what they look like, but they'd better lay low just to be sure. Skinner: Well, then, isn't it risky for Wolfgang to just walk into the Pentagon? Mulder: It's a risk we have to take. Make him a fake ID and give him some glasses and hair color to disguise him. We've got to try to find them before they find us. Skinner: All right. I'll call headquarters and get a van sent over here to pick us up. Where do you think would be a good place to hide out while we wait? Mulder: How about getting us some rooms at the Watergate Hotel. It's close to the government offices, and we all need some rest after our trip anyway. Skinner: And just who do you think's going to pay for that, Mulder? Mulder: Why, the Bureau, of course. This *is* an official investigation, after all. Skinner: All right, Mulder. We'll do it your way. (goes over to the desk and picks up the phone) Oh, and Mulder? If you see any other government conspiracies happen while you're there, be sure to tell me, OK? Mulder: Don't worry, sir. We'll nix any Nixons. Skinner: (sighs) Where does the FBI get them, and why do they keep sending them to me? Watergate Hotel Washington, DC 12:55 PM (Mulder, Scully, Yohko, Azusa, Chi, and Skinner are having lunch in the hotel's dining room. Skinner is glancing at his watch anxiously.) Skinner: It's almost 1:00! Shouldn't Wolfgang be done by now? Scully: Sir, the Pentagon's a big building. It'll take a while to cover it all. Skinner: Well, I don't know. I mean, what if someone spotted his fake ID? Scully: Sir, it was made by the FBI lab! Who better to fake a government ID than the government? Skinner: Yes, well, it took quite a bit of persuading to get them to do it, too. (sighs) I'm just nervous, that's all. If anyone recognizes him, they'll know you two are in the city, and then BLAM! We're deader than doornails, along with everyone else in the world come midnight. Mulder: Sir, I've learned that the best thing to do when the military's after you is just to relax. If you're tense, you'll make mistakes, and that makes you an easier target. Skinner: (throws up his hands) Great. The entire world is about to be sucked down into Hell and I've got an wise-ass agent here telling me to relax! (Suddenly, Wolfgang walks in carrying his equipment. His blond hair is dyed black, and he is wearing glasses and a Defense Department ID badge.) Skinner: Well?! What did you find, Wolfgang? Wolfgang: (taking off the glasses) Nothing. I scanned the whole place top to bottom, but I came up with zilch. Chi: Oh, Wolfgang! I think that hair and those glasses are definitely you! (She bats her eyes at him coquettishly.) Wolfgang: (blushes) Yes, um, well, there was a lot of residual energy in the building, but I couldn't pinpoint any exact sources. Whatever they're storing the energy in has to be heavily shielded. Mulder: Well, I guess that leaves us with Plan B. We wait until midnight, then we raid the place. By the way, how's that coming? Skinner: I called the White House and got an appointment with the President this afternoon at 4:30. I sure hope I can convince him to do something. (Skinner's cellular phone rings. He answers it and talks for a few moments. When he hangs up, he looks very concerned.) Scully: Who was that, sir? Skinner: That was the White House. They said that the President's daughter is missing. Mulder: Chelsea? What happened? Skinner: A couple days ago, some nut tried to shoot Chelsea outside of her school. The President's security specialists told him that they were going to put her in a safe house until the heat blew over. Well, this morning the President tried to call his daughter to see how she was doing. It turns out nobody in the government knew where she was. When the President tried to reach his security adviser, he was gone and no one knew where he was, either. An investigation discovered that several of the President's top aides were missing. The FBI director called all the government safe houses, and Chelsea's in none of them. Mulder: That means the military is going to sacrifice her, too! I can't believe this! This is great! Scully: It's great that the President's daughter is going to be sacrificed?! Mulder: No, Scully, it's great for our strategy. Sir, call the President. Tell him you know where his daughter is! Skinner: He'll want to know where I got that information from, Mulder. Mulder: (pauses) Well, we might have to tell him the whole story. We'd better bring Yohko and the others along in case the President needs some convincing. Skinner: (shudders) He'll be convinced, I have no doubt about that. Mulder: So call him up! Tell him this is too important to wait! With any luck, we can meet with him right away! Scully: Are you sure it's a wise idea for us to march into the White House? I mean, there still might be some agents in there. Mulder: No, you heard Skinner. They've all gone into hiding in preparation for the ceremony. Scully: But they still might have some eyes and ears on the outside. Mulder: Maybe, but with this investigation going on, I think it will severely hamper their efforts. No one's going to be able to make any covert calls from inside the White House. Scully: Yeah, and what if they use magic to spy on us? Mulder: That's what Yohko and Wolfgang are here for. Now, come on! This is our big chance, and we've got to act fast! Otherwise, the world as we know it will come to an end! END OF PART SEVEN Devil Hunter Yohko meets the X-Files ("Demon City D.C.") (C) 1995 Michael Franz The X-Files are (C) 1995 Ten Thirteen Productions and 20th Century Fox. Devil Hunter Yohko is (C) 1990 Japan Computer Systems and Toho, Inc. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- PART EIGHT The White House Washington, DC 2:30 PM (Inside the Cabinet room. People a