Amoi's Library

Characters: Katze, Iason Sound Effect: Buzzing coming from a secret auction room. Inside a specially isolated seller's booth. Katze watches closely the buyeers through a screen embedded in the wall. The phone inside his breast pocket rings. He picks it up. Katze: Yes? Iason: (through the phone) It's me. How is the auction going? Katze: Smoothly. Iason: (through the phone) I see. Katze: If you have anything specific in mind, I can add it. Iason: (through the phone) No, there is none. I will leave that up to you. Katze: Understood. Iason: (through the phone) Ah... right. There is one thing I want you to strike from the record. Katze: What is the product number? Iason: (through the phone) "Riki the Dark". Katze: (swallows his breath for a second) Iason: (through the phone) Do you understand? Katze: I understand... SE: The call ends. Katze takes out a cigarette from his desk's drawer and lights it. Katze: (takes a puff on his cigarette) Is this... the beginning of the end?

Characters: Riki, Alec, Katze, Iason, Zack Sound Effect: An interstellar travel cargo ship dives into the jump gate and lands at Midas' spaceport. ・・・ Midas, Area 8. Terminal 5, 20th floor below ground. SE: Riki and Alec are at work. They busily carry the containers with a lorry to their designated place. They're completing their last task. Riki & Alec: (letting a big sigh out) Riki: We're done... Alec: We made it... Riki: We really rushed... Alec: Yeah. Feels like we finished with a full-scale sprint... But first, you go report to the Boss, Riki. Riki: Me? Alec: Chores are for newbies. Riki: (grumbling, he retrieves a mobile phone from his jacket's pocket and opens it) SE: Riki retrieves a mobile phone from his pocket and opens it. He dials Katze's number and Katze's image appears. Riki: Does that mean... we're free to do whatever? Katze: (through the phone) You are... But you two won't be able to enter the auction hall with the pass you have. Don't forget that. SE: the call cuts. Riki: (clicking his tongue lightly) And here I thought I might peek to see what a secret auction set by the Black Market looks like. SE: he closes the phone. Riki: Well, can't do anything about it. I'll have plenty of chances to do that in the future. Alec: (stretching) Well, then... first, we go eat! Riki: Yeah, I only ate a jelly ration this morning. Alec: I was so focused on rushing here, I completely forgot my empty stomach. Riki: Right. Let's grab a meal first, then we'll sleep like logs... okay? Alec: Let's go, then! SE: Riki and Alec get on the lorry. Riki lets Alec drive and leans into his seat. The lorry starts quietly. At the other end of the container depot, another lorry is operated. Riki: (hearing the sound) what? (looking in its direction) What's up? And here I thought we were the last. There's an unlucky guy who made it even more barely to send his container in? SE: The lorry grows noisier. Riki: They're working full strength. They must be anxious. (noticing the back of the man suirveilling them) So it comes with a supervisor? The tallest guy must be the most important... And this... seems to be some kind of decorum to attend the auction? Maybe he came on behalf of the container's owner. SE: The operation is finished. Riki :"Mission accomplished"... right? Oh! He's bowing so low to that guy. Must be quite a big shot. SE: The man slowly turns on his heels. His steps resonate terribly through the perfectly silent container depot. Riki: (catching a glimpse of the face of the man who has just turned back, he gets a jolt) Him! SE: Riki unconsciously leans forward. Riki: (leaning forward) No way! He's... That Blondy? SE: Iason climbs into a cart and leaves the scene. Riki: I'm sure of it! He may try to disguise himself with short brown hair and eyeshades, I'm sure he's that bastard! Shit! SE: Riki grabs Alec's arm. Riki: Stop! Alec: What?! What happened? SE: The lorry they're riding stops. Riki: I got something to do. SE: Riki jumps off and runs away. Alec: Wha... Hey, Riki! SE: Riki runs after Iason's cart. Riki: Bastard! Don't think I'll let you get away! SE: The cart turns right and left. Riki runs with all his strength not to lose it from sight. Riki: (breath accelerating) SE: The cart stops. Iason gets off and disappears through the door. Riki: Shit, I'll lose sight of him... SE: Riki runs out of breath rushing to the door. Riki: (noticing the door was opened after the cart was slotted in, Riki clicks his hand in anger) What the hell, an identification code? Aah... shit, if I don't hurry, he's gonna get away! (suddenly remembers) Right, the pass card Katze gave me... SE: Riki retrieves the card from his pocket and slots it. Sound of the safety lock being released. Riki: Nice! SE: The door slides open. Riki enters and the door closes. Riki hastens. Further ahead, Iason walks with quiet steps. Riki: There. (he takes little deep breath to bring his breathing under control) SE: Riki starts walking in step with Iason. After walking for a moment, Iason turns right. When Riki also turns right, there is no sight of him. Riki: What? He's not here...? How? SE: Riki looks around him. Riki: Maybe it's that black door? SE: Riki calmly walks to the door. Riki: He's right ahead. But... Still... I feel my hair standing up on my neck. Is this... That must be pretty dangerous, right? (gazing far ahead) What am I freaking for, after coming all the way here? (resolute, he swallows and turns the doorknob) SE: Riki slowly pushes the door. It opens and he enters. Inside is a silent, blueish world. Riki: (half stunned) What is... this place? An entirely deep blue world... as if there's no ceiling nor floor... I don't know where I am and I can't make out distances... makes me feel sick. SE: The sound "blurs", just like Riki's sight. Then, it disappears, as if thumping at the edge of his field of vision. Riki: (getting the impression he got a glimpse of something at the edge of his field of vision, he starts) I think I just saw something... Or did I imagine it? (muttering) The hell am I freaking out for? Come on! If he saw me like that, that guy'd just mock me again. (lightly slapping his hands against his cheeks to give himself some courage) Tch! SE: At that moment, the sound of a knock against the reinforced transparent glass resonates. Riki: (stands petrified) SE: The source of the sound moves around, thumping two, three times. Riki: (almost speechless) what... is that? SE: the sounds continue to reverberate, seemingly closing in on Riki, trapping him. Riki: A mouth stretching from ear to ear... fins with protruding hooked claws... silver scales... is that... a human fish... chimera? SE: The chimera violently smashes its tail against the reinforced glass, making the whole room shake as the sound reverberates across it. Riki: Ah... Aaaaah... (unvoluntarily screams and falls to the ground) SE: The next moment, an alarm-like electronic sound rings. The entire room is shielded by a shutter. Riki: What... what... what the fuck is happening? SE: Riki's heartbeats race until it can no longer. Iason unhurriedly comes closer, the sound of his boots reverberating. Riki's pulse and Iason's steps synchronize, fading out when Iason stops. Iason: (insincerely) What a coincidence... shall I say? I didn't think I would meet you again in such a place. Riki: (half panting) Y... You... Iason: You deserved it. Did it scare you so much your legs gave way? Riki: A Ga... ela? Iason: It is a man and fish hybrid experiment. Though it seems it'll take time to put its new form to military use. Riki: (trying to gather his breath) Iason: (holding back a laugh) If you don't have the strength to get up, should I lend you a hand? Riki: (glaring at him) Iason: Ah, right... You hate owing people things, don't you? Riki: Bastard... treating me like an idiot... SE: When Riki tries to get up, prideful and determined, the strength leaves his legs. Iason grabs Riki's collar with one hand and pulls him relying on his strength. Riki: (reacting to being pulled up, screaming) Bastard, let go! Let me go! Iason: Are you sure you want me to let go? You'll only fall sprawling. Riki: (glaring fiercely) Iason: (snickering coldly) Don't glare at me like that, as if you could bite me any moment. You'll make me want to make you cry again. Riki: Told you to let go of my hand! SE: Iason lets go of Riki's collar. Riki slightly staggers but still stands firm with determination. Riki: ... where's the exit? Iason: There is none. Riki: (trying to contain his rage) I'm not here to joke with you. Where's the damn exit?! Iason: No matter how much you try to threaten me, this won't change the situation. Isn't that right, Riki? Riki: (astonished) How... does he know my name? Iason: Didn't Katze teach you? That excessive curiosity will doom you... Riki: (speechless with astonishment) Iason: Though, in his particular case, he was lucky to get away with his prized face in one piece. Riki: Katze's scar... Could he be... the one responsible for it? Katze: (in Riki's memories) This is... a warning. Against getting your vision clouded by your vanity. Iason: He was quite sharp for a slum mongrel. He proved quite a good distraction after all. And he had other use than being thrown into a lab and cut to pieces to serve in a live experiment. So, what about you? Riki: Who... are you? Iason: Iason Mink. Just a Blondie whose motto is to always be superior in all things. Riki: Don't lie to me! SE: Riki slowly takes a step back. Riki: Just what... is he? Who is he? SE: Riki stiffly takes a second step back. Riki: This is bad... no, dangerous! I'm done for! SE: Before taking his third step, Riki is caught by the arm and pulled nearer by Iason. Riki: (he crouches when Iason grabs his arms and draws him near) Iason: You've gotten quite the ferocious look since the last time I saw you. It seems you go by "Riki the Dark" on the Market, though he must feel his old scar throbbing whe he looks at you. He's still too sentimental. Riki: (catches his breath) Was I... set up? Zack: (in Riki's memories) Say Riki… how about becoming a carrier? Riki: One day, an opportunity just landed on my lap... Zack: (in Riki's memories) Even so, just anybody won’t do. Riki: But what if that wasn't a coincidence? Katze: (in Riki's memories) What I’m looking for is neither an errand boy looking for tips nor a smartass stealing goods to make a quick buck. There’s nothing better than being both smart and bold, but I don’t need a mad dog who cannot follow rules. If that’s fine by you, want to give it a try? Riki: That was... a trap? But why? Katze: (in Riki's memories) What and how will you choose? You will be the one to make that decision, Riki, don't forget that. Riki: What... do you plan to do with me? Iason: (snickering coldly) What do you want me to do with you? Riki: (falls silent, his mouth too dry to speak)

Characters: Riki, Alec, Iason On planet Derbia. Sound Effect: a plasma-mixed geomagnetic storm rages. Riki and Alec are confined in the cargo ship stationed in the underground hangar of the spaceport. Riki: Are you kidding me? Alec: Jeez... Riki: The weather was so good yesterday... How's that even possible? Alec: It's said even the smallest geomagnetic storms on Derbia last for three days. Riki: Three days?! The auction in Mistral Park is in a week! Will we even make it on time? Alec: Really, there's no humor in that situation. SE: Alec pours himself a drink from the hot drink machine. Alec: (slowly takes a gulp) Riki: Alec, you're calmer than you're saying. Alec: Well, there's no use fretting in this situation. Riki: (lets out a deep sigh) SE: Riki sinks into his chair. Alec: Things like this happen. Riki: Waiting with nothing to do just doesn't sit right with me. SE: Riki thrusts his hands into his pockets. Seemingly annoyed, he rubs his keyholder. Riki: (startled, as if this action reminded him) This is... (picks it out of his pocket) That time's... SE: He takes his keyholder from his pocket and holds it in front of his eyes. The golden coin Iason threw him dangles from his keyholder. Riki: (staring at the coin) The coin that Blondy bastard threw at me... In the end, I couldn't throw it away. I thought about having Zack convert it into money, but I don't want him prying too persistently into where it came from. And delaying it... SE: Alec notices the coin Riki is fixated on and sits beside him. Alec: (honestly surprised) Oh... You've got... something crazy there. Riki: ... what? Alec: I'm talking about that gold coin! Riki: What do you mean by... crazy? Alec: What? I mean, that's an Aurora Coin! Riki: An Aurora... Coin? Alec: What, you don't know? Riki: You mean it has such a fancy name? Alec: (sighs theatrically) Aah... Well, I guess it's normal, seeing where you've hung it... Riki: (annoyed) So, what's the big deal? Alec: An Aurora Coin is a coin for Pets. Put it simply, they're pocket change exclusive to Pets. Riki: (astonished) A coin... for Pets?! Alec: There are restrictions on who can use it and where, and since it's a special coin, it has no value as currency on the market. That's why coins for Pets are not usually called "coins" but "medals". Riki: (his anger flaring up anew) This... bastard! How the hell does that count as "change"?! ... Took me for a fucking idiot! (sharply) So you mean it's a fake coin? Alec: No, it's really not. Riki: Why? This coin doesn't have any value, right? How... what's so great about it? Alec: You can't use it as money, but it has an added value as a status symbol: it shows you're rich enough to have a Pet. Riki: (clenching his teeth) Added value as a status symbol?! Isn't that just... shit?! Alec: Among maniacs, even if it still depends on the item, you can trade it for quite a lot of money. Riki: (snaps with disgust) Fucking idiots... I can't understand people who'd waste their money on something like this! Alec: (lets out a laugh) Money goes around and around and comes back into rich people's hands, that's how it goes. If you can't play the prodigal, you can't really call yourself rich... right? Riki: Is that adult's logic? Alec: No, that's common sense. Riki: (growing more annoyed) Alec: So, what you have here is called an "Aurora Coin", and it is made exclusively for Pets kept in Eos. Though it's my first time seeing a real one. Riki: Eos? Alec: The Palace Tower in which the Elites of Tanagura live. Riki: (finding difficult to say anything, he bites back his words) Alec: The engraved pattern has the same design as Tanagura's flag insignia. Plus, it's apparently 99% pure lariat. I don't know where you got it, but if you put it on auction online, there's no doubt you'd have bidders rushing in. You wouldn't just earn pocket money, you'd probably be able to gain a fortune. Riki: That fucking bastard... He screwed me over! Iason: (in Riki's memories) I am simply treating a slum mongrel like a Pet. Yet, you are dissatisfied? Riki: Shit... Iason: (in Riki's memories) With this, we are even. Riki: You fucker... I'll remember that! Next time we meet, you'll see, I'll make you pay threefold!

Characters: Guy, Riki In the middle of the night, in Ceres. In his room, Guy is fast asleep. SE: the door intercom rings. Guy, wakes in his bed. Guy: Aa... hm? SE: the intercom still rings insistently. Guy stirs in his bed. Guy: (stirring in his bed) what... the hell... who's it... this late... Agh, shut it already... SE: the door intercom doesn't stop ringing. Guy: ... For real, just spare me... hell, it's 2 in the morning... Aah... what a pain! SE: Guy lifts his hand to take the device resting on his headboard (it is connected to the door's intercom) and turns it on. Guy: (pissed off)... who's it? Riki: (through the intercom, drunk) me. Guy: (completely wakes up when he realizes it's Riki) Riki?! Riki: (through the intercom) Yeah, me. SE: Guy jumps out of bed and runs to the door. Seemingly panicked, he unlocks the door, which slides open. Guy: Riki! Riki: Hey... SE: Riki steps inside and slowly collapses. Guy: Ah, for real! What've you done? Are you drunk? Are you high? What did you do with your spare key? SE: Guy helps Riki get to his feet and locks the door. Guy: Come on, try to walk Riki! You're heavy...! SE: Guy collapses onto the bed with Riki, face down. They both try to regain their breath. Guy: (getting up with difficulty, he briefly looks at Riki) Seriously, what have you been up to this late? Riki: (slightly groans) Guy: Still, you managed to come back to my place so... I'll forgive you. SE: Guy strokes Riki's hair and kisses it. Riki: Guy... Guy: What is it? Riki: (strangely articulate) I will... rise out from here... I'll show you... so... Guy: It'll be fine. I know you can do it. Riki: So please... Don't go... Guy: I won't go, anywhere. Riki: You only have... two hands... to hold onto... what's important... Aire told me, but... Guy: Aire? (searches his memory) Ah... That platinum blonde kid? She was as beautiful as an angel, that girl. She was three years older than us, for sure. Riki: You must... never... let go of what's most important... Once you have cast away something... you will never get it back... so... don't make a mistake... that's what... Aire told me... Guy: Back in Guardian, she would always rush to Riki's side during our weekly freetime and shower him with kisses. It was only too clear she claimed Riki as her own, and at that time, her possessiveness was really frightening but (chuckles) I guess I am not that different now. Riki: Even if... I abandon Bison, I... won't ever... let go of your hand, so... Guy: Riki... Even if you spoke with determination, breaking up Bison did weigh on your mind. Well, I understand you didn't want to half-ass anything, so there was no other way. Choosing something means you have to discard another. So when you took on this job as a carrier, you bisbanded Bison. But still... Still, I was happy, because you told me you would not let go of my hand. Riki: I will climb out... of the slums... wait for me... Guy... SE: Guy quietly embraces Riki. Guy: (with clear determination) I won't go anywhere. So you can keep on running forward. The place you will come back to, always, wherever you are... is here. (showing his possessiveness) Because you're mine, Riki. I won't let anyone else have you now. SE: Guy's whispers fade in the sound of Riki's breathing.

Characters: Alec, Riki, Katze SE: in a hangar, filled with the buzzing of the inspection before takeoff. Alec and Riki are inside a cargo, running the last checks. Alec's intercom rings. Alec: (to his intercom) Roger. SE: Alec turns the intercom off. Alec: Riki! The last cargo has arrived. I'll manage things here, go to the 3rd Sector to retrieve it. Riki: Got it! (he shuts his mobile terminal) SE: Riki stops in his tracks and shuts his mobile. He gets off the cargo ship, gets on a cart and goes to retrieve the goods. ・A room in the 3rd Sector SE: The door opens and Riki enters. He notices Katze is there. Riki: Boss? Why is Katze...? Could it be the last cargo has something to do with him? Katze: Are you ready to take off? Riki: Alec is running the last checks. So I came to collect the goods, but... Katze: Yeah... Just wait a minute. SE: The door on the other side of the room opens and two cases used for Cold Sleep are brought in. Riki: Uh? What... Aren't those cases used for Cold Sleep? There's a timer set, so someone is sleeping in there? Wasn't it materials we were supposed to transport to Laocon? So why? Katze: What is it? Riki: Is this case... our cargo? Katze: Yes. Riki: I didn't hear anything about transporting people in Cold Sleep though? Katze: You will put it in another ship on Laocon. Those two alone didn't make it in time. So it was decided to put them on your ship as an emergency measure. Riki: But... Katze: Those two are custom made products from Lanaya, we can't afford to delay their shipping. Riki: (taken aback) Lanaya... you mean, that Lanaya Hugo...? Katze: Yes. Riki: Didn't they... stop production...? Katze: That's what was publicly announced. But there are fads who want those special sex dolls so much they are willing to spend a fortune. What we call business is built on supply and demand. Am I wrong? Riki: (frowning with disgust) I know that! But I... I just hate perverts looking for sex that pay a pile of money to have fun with kids who haven't even grown hair yet! Katze: You only have to deliver specific goods to a specific place. That's all. Riki: I told you, I got it! SE: Riki walks away angrily. He gets on the cart loaded with the two cases and leaves.

Characters: Norris, Sid, Luke, Richie, Guy In Ceres. In a group of abandonned buildings showing their crumbling structure. SE: Guy and the other members of Bison are doing a one on one game of chicken with air bikes. (Casualties are high, so this place attracts people looking for a thrill.) Norris: Haa... I lost to Guy again. Sid: Well, winning against him would make you the best rider in the slums. No use being cross about it. Luke: Exactly. Richie: Does it mean even Riki can't win against Guy? Sid: Well... rather, that'd be a pick-em. Right, Guy? Guy: If it's a game, Riki may be faster than me. Back in Guardian, I never won a cart race against him, after all. Norris: Oh... is that true? Richie: I've always wondered... Luke: What? Richie: Why does Riki always ride behind Guy when we're fighting? Sid: You heard him, Guy. Guy: If Riki led the van, he'd be too reckless for my heart to handle it. Richie: Eh? Norris: Meaning he rides at full throttle when he gets into battle mode. Sid: Seriously, his driving is just plain reckless. Luke: Normally, you don't go at full speed when you're in a curve, right? Well, Riki just rushes and wait until the last moment to take a sharp turn. That's nuts! Sid: Looking at him from behind makes us break into a cold sweat, and you don't need that in a battle! Richie: For real? Guy: Riki has no common sense when it comes to driving. Everyone: (all nod emphatically) SE: Norris throws an empty bottle away. Norris: But it's been a while Riki hasn't shown his face around here. Luke: What's he been up to, Guy? Guy: He seems... to have a lot going on. Sid: With that courier job Zack gave him? Guy: Yeah... Norris: You're sure everything's fine? Luke: He hasn't gotten himself involved in any shady business he can't quit, right? Guy: I don't... think so. Sid: We're counting on you, Guy. Keep an eye on him to make sure he doesn't fly away. Guy: To make sure he doesn't fly away...? But Riki's been so cheerful since he's become a courier. He's our boss, but... To us, he's our irreplaceable leader, but lately... I sometimes wonder if Bison won't soon become a burden to Riki. SE: The wind blows through the derelict buildings, sweeping up some dust.

Characters: Katze, Alec In Katze's office, on the Black Market. Sound Effect: the interphone on the desk rings. Katze answers. Katze: Who is it? Alec: (through the speaker) It's Alec. Katze: I'll open. SE: Katze hangs up. The door unlocks and opens. Alec enters. Alec: You've called me? Katze: Please, sit. SE: Alec sits on the sofa. Katze: A drink? Alec: Then, some Amut please. Without syrup. SE: Katze presses the button of the coffee machine. It rings and two drinks come out. Katze takes the two cups and sits on the sofa. Alec: thanks. SE: Alec drink his Amut (something akin to black coffee) in a gulp. Alec: (after taking a gulp) So, what did you want to talk to me about, boss? Katze: Having a partner. Alec: But I don't need a partner now! It's easier to be alone. Katze: This won't do. This time, I would like you to consider it. Alec: I mean, if you're ordering me to, boss, I don't have a right to refuse... For real, he's coming for me for last time's trouble with the cargo preparation? Who do you want to partner with me? (takes a gulp) Katze: Riki. Alec: (chokes on his drink) For real? SE: Alec puts his cup back on the table. Alec: Boss, babysitting isn't my thing... Katze: Don't worry about it. He's not just a little shit. I don't think you'll be bored. Alec: (letting out a sigh) Then... don't you mean he's a big troublemaker? You know I'm not that bored with my life. SE: Katze drinks his cup of Amut. Alec: When Katze first brought Riki and introduced him as a new recruit, everyone wondered for a time if he hadn't been forced, for whatever reason, to deal with that brat. But when he turned out to be a slum mongrel too, it was thought Katze may have picked up a brother to train as his future right hand man. And I cannot say this didn't create a lot of frustration that devolved into fight. What does Katze plan to do with this kid? Boss, if you've already decided to pair me with Riki, can I just confirm something? Katze: What? Alec: If you're trusting me with looking after him despite knowing my circumstances, does it mean you want me to teach him the basics of being a courier and train him to be an immediate asset? Katze: No. There's no need for that. Because I don't intend to turn him into a professional courier. Alec: (dismayed) Oh... meaning the rumors were true, after all? (with irony) Then, do you want me to make sure nobody sets him off in the future and always keep an eye on him? Katze: You don't need to bother yourself with that. Because it seems... like he is a trueborn Vajra. Alec: A Vajra? Katze: Originally, it was a mythical jet black beast. But though this monster was feared for preying on people's souls, it was a remarkably beautiful creature... It is said countless men had been enthralled by its pupils, as dark as the universe. Alec: In other words, even if said person doesn't want it, people will just keep using whatever reason to come and pick a fight with them. Is that it? Well, I have to admit, his simmering pupils remind me of magma. If, in a different way from our Karinese scarlet eyes, that makes people peer at his face carelessly... I have a bad feeling about this. Katze: The slums are a distorted male world. People that stand out are either thwarted or hunted down. There is no other issue. Alec: And if that doesn't suit you, you have to knock them down? Katze: Though in a different place, he still emits those pheromones... Or so it seems. However, his unawareness may be the least intentional. SE: As if on cue, Katze and Alec drink their Amut. Katze: Alec. Alec: Yes? Katze: Is wanting to put a leash on a beast while taming it a man's eternal fantasy or... simply a desire for domination? Which do you think it is? Alec: What kind of riddle is this? Well, speaking for myself, no matter how beautiful a creature, I would only look at it from afar and not even dare think about touching it. Katze: Alec, I don't know what others may think, but I don't want to completely transform Riki. Alec: So... what do you... Katze: I'd prefer it to be as moderate as possible. Alec: (unthinkingly) Then you don't... plan to train Riki for the future, boss? Katze: (distorting half of his face) If he was just a brat too witty for his own good, I would have wanted you to train him hard. But in Riki's case, if he were to change that much... Honestly, I'd be afraid of the reaction. Alec: (Unsure of his reaction) Katze: That's why I'd like you to act as a dragnet to prevent him from leaping too far. Alec: So even though he picked him up from the bottom of the slums and let him roam free in the Market, he doesn't wish for him to stand out more? And... I am to restrain him? The more I hear, the less I understand...

Characters: Iason, Raoul In Tanagura. In Eos, the Palace Tower where the living quarters of the elites are. Sound Effect: In a spacious lounge reserved to the high-ranked elites. Accompanied by their Pets, they each are relaxing as they want. (As they are all Blondies and Platinas, their discussions are refined and calm. Separately, the Pets are talking cheerfully.) Pets: humanoid playthings kept by the cyborg elites. They are young boys and girls genetically engineered to become Pets (they are from 5 to 17 years old). SE: their laughter (hushed) becomes louder. At the center of their group is Raoul's Pet (female). Iason: (looking at them) Your Pet has become quite the star since her introduction party. Raoul: Of course she has. Mimea is a pureblood of Berge descent. This is the best of the Academy's serial production. Iason: The Berge lineage is the select breed you improved via crossbreeding, wasn't it? Raoul: That's right. It was quite a challenge to give their eyes this deep purple. How is it? Aren't Mimea's eyes beautiful? Iason: They are. I understand why the eyes of Pets of Berge descent are compared to living gemstones. Raoul: (with pride) I am looking forward to make her birth children. Iason: Have you decided on the pedigree of the pureblood you will pair her with? Raoul: No, not yet. There is plenty of time, I will think it over. Iason: You will probably be flooded with pairing proposals. Raoul: I obviously intend to exercise my right to choose. Iason: Then, before that, be careful not to let pesky bugs gather. Raoul: Well, I don't worry about that. Iason: Why? Raoul: Here in Eos, no one would be stupid enough to try and make a pass at my Pet. Iason: In a way, the name of Raoul Am, or the "Mad Scientist" for the religious leaders of the Federation, is your greatest asset. A Pet's misconduct shames its master. One could say... they fear the consequences. Raoul: Enough with that, Iason. I heard you've yet again disposed of your Pet. Iason: This one lasted half a year, mind you. Raoul: You really have no qualms about disposing of Academy-bred pureblood Pets... Iason: I cannot help that. Serial products from the Academy are always in high demand, so even if you want to sell them off, they almost never hit the market in Midas in the present situation. Raoul: Maybe... it is even more true for a Pet with the added value of formerly belonging to Iason Mink. Iason: Male Pets aside, female Pets do have a certain value in use. And unlike you, outside of my sense of duty as a Blondy, I do not feel interest nor attachmnent for Pets. Raoul: Meaning the king ruling over the Black Market from the shadows, being the downright meritocrat he is, has grown fed up with idiotic Pets that are obsessed with sex? Iason: Beyond them being an accessory proving our status, I only seek them for decorative purposes. Raoul: Though you are famous for your eccentric taste. Iason: I simply put the right people in the right place, whoever they may be. Even if that makes me an eccentric. Raoul: Fine. He indeed proved useful. Iason: Such a rare compliment coming from you, I will make sure to tell Katze. Raoul: (turns away with a grunt) Iason: (lets a little laugh out the corners of his mouth) SE: Noises of the lounge fade out.

Characters: Katze, Riki, Iason Katze's office Sound Effect: Katze sinks into his desk chair. Katze: I guess they don't call you "Bison's head" for nothing... Riki: Fights aren't won by the strong, it's those who win them who are strong. Those that cry over their loss are just wimps. Katze: That's wisely said. They probably didn't expect to be floored by a kid half their weight. They probably wanted to crush that cocky brat as a drinking joke, but they chose the wrong target. Being called trash that climbed out of a cesspool upsets you that much? Riki: (glares at Katze) Katze: (with a half-smile) That's scary! Don't glare at me so frankly. Riki: What upsets me isn't being called trash. It's the damned gall of the guys that always come nagging at me with nonsense. Katze: To a complete stranger, the truth doesn't matter. That's why discrimination based on prejudice doesn't disappear that easily. No matter how finely you argue against it. That's mostly how the world works. Riki: I know. I don't need you to tell me that... Katze: Right. Because slum mongrels are trash that only has the brains to self-indulgently eat away its freedom. Riki: Are you able to say that because you're part of the handful of slum mongrels who have succeeded? I... honestly, I didn't expect you to be a slum mongrel too. Katze: The Market isn't as kind as to let people survive with sheer boldness. So don't bark uselessly. Strain your ears and keep your antennae up. Whatever happens, don't avert your eyes from reality. But keep your mouth tighly shut. This is what it takes to rise in the world... do you understand? Riki: Is it how you've become who you are today? Katze: Yes. Riki: So, you show your scar to prove your rise? Katze: This is... a warning. Riki: A warning? Against what? Katze: Against getting your vision clouded by your vanity. Riki: Then... I will rise too. I managed to seize the fortune by the forelock at the right moment. And I will prove it. Katze: To whom? Riki: To myself. SE: Riki exits the room. Katze: "Seize the fortune by the forelock", right? SE: Katze takes a cigarette out of his breast pocket and lights it. Katze: (slowly exhaling smoke) But that may have been a devil wearing fortune's mask rather than the goddess of fortune herself. Iason: The other day, I found something truly interesting in Midas. Katze: Iason Mink... A tyrant bearing the title of Blondy from Tanagura, I might say. Iason: Try putting him to work. Katze: I don't know what Iason has in mind. Only that I have no right to oppose it. Iason: Oh... So he has the brains to properly complete the assignment you've given him? This is quite interesting. Katze: As far as I know, this is the first time Iason has had that much interest in someone. Which one has been captured? Is it Riki? Or... Iason?

Characters: Alec, Riki, couriers (1, 2, 3 & 4) Sound Effect: sound of thunder and heavy rain. A subterranean cargo ship hangar belonging to the Black Market. SE: Rowdy men (around ten, from 28 to 35 years old) are idly drinking and babbling (they're talking about the weather, women, they're bragging about their strength... They're drinking to kill time and are getting excited). Riki enters with a work cart. The men notice him. The attention shifts from their mindless chat to Riki. (Riki's three big characteristics are: "he's a slum mongrel", "he's cocky" and "he's a rookie"). Riki stops the cart. He gets off to replenish the equipment on his list and efficiently moves a case to its designated place. Courier 1: (as if to mock him) Hey, Riki! Still running errands with your cart? Courier 2: Doesn't matter you were recommended by the boss, ain't nobody going to let a stinky kid in a cargo ship's cockpit! Courier 3: Right! Kids should just play around with their toy cart! All couriers: (laugh stupidly) Alec: Hey, I get you're greatly interested in the new kid, but isn't it a bit childish to mock him as a drinking distraction? SE: Riki ignores them and keeps on working, unaffected. Courier 3: Tch, what an unpleasant kid! Courier 1: Honestly, what does he take himself for? Courier 2: We known what he really is! Alec:Well, I get why they might want to complain about him. In a way he... stands out quite badly. He's a kid, but his presence is extraordinary. It doesn't just attract the eyes, it's as if it relentlessly stimulates something deep down... Is it what slum mongrels are like? If this kid was cute enough to smile politely, he wouldn't have any problem though... Courier 2: Now... how about teaching him a lesson? Courier 1: (laughing with satisfaction) Sounds good! Courier 3: How about we teach that rookie some manners... SE: The men empty their drinks in several quick gulps and throw away their cans (or squash them) before getting up. Courier 4: You sure it'll be fine even if you don't stop them, Alec? Alec: Do they look like they'd listen? Courier 4: You mean... it'd be stupid to fail and end up getting involved? Alec: They've drunk after all. Probably won't get too ugly. Courier 4: Well, that's not what they've said though. I also think that kid should learn to show some respect to his elders. Alec: Riki being how he is, they may just try in vain if they can't ridicule him, right? Slum mongrels... don't amount to much in society, even if they're mistaken for someone else. Courier 4: To overly cynical adults like us, this only looks like the obstinacy of a kid too immature to give a damn. Alec: Prejudice, contempt and hatred don't amount to much. Though I doubt this kid has enough life experience to come to terms with it. SE: The men surround Riki to stop him. Riki: Move. Courier 1: Hey hey, he's glaring at me like a grown man, that kid! Riki: I can't work. Courier 2: Work, right? You're the one disturbing us by rolling your cart around! Riki: Don't want to be told that by guys who've been drinking and babbling over their cups since noon. Courier 3: The hell are you saying? Courier 1: This kid really has no manners! Courier 2: But you know, he's got quite a small ass for such a big mouth! SE: Courier 2 simultaneously grabs Riki's behind with both hands. Riki: (reacts to being groped) Courier 2: See? It fits in my two hands! Riki: Let go! SE: Riki twists his body and brushes away Courier 2's hands. Courier 2: I heard it's common for slum mongrels to do it with men? Good job for taking it up there and not breaking it! Courier 3: I mean, slum mongrels are shitholes. They're getting done by shitty hangdowns that can't get up for no woman. Courier 1: Then, we'll show you, kid. What a real man tastes like! SE: Letting out a vulgar laugh, the men get closer to Riki. One grabs Riki's arm. Riki: Get your disgusting hands off me! SE: Riki brushes his hand off and kicks his shin before delivering a well-aimed kick while he's moaning. The two other men are stunned for a moment. The next moment, they lose their mind. Riki and the men violently exchange blows. Riki sends them crouching on the ground with his almost brutal strength. Alec and the others watching from the sidelines stand aghast. Riki: (panting lightly) Don't look down on me because you think I'm a kid! Next time, I'll break that arm! SE: Spitting that retort, Riki gets on his cart and drives away.

Characters: Riki, Katze, Narrator Midas, Area 2. Sound Effect: The sound of an air bike fades in and stops. Riki gets off the bike. He takes a card out of his pocket and flicks its corner. Riki: Wednesday at 15:30. Midas, Area 2: Flare, Moga District, East Avenue 12-9-32 Red Baron, Room 805... Well that was a pain! I had to spend half a day on a computer to solve this. If this turns out to be wrong, this is gonna be so embarrassing. SE: Riki starts walking. SE: The luxurious elevator stops at the 7th floor. Riki gets out. He walks to Room 805. Riki: It's here. (Checks the time on his watch) Good, it's 15:30. Now, for the code... SE: Riki types #07291, the door opens. Riki: It opened! SE: The door slides open. Riki: (swallows his saliva nodding) SE: Riki slowly enters. Inside the room is Katze leaning against a desk chair. The chair lightly creaks. Riki: (sees Katze) SE: Riki stops in his tracks. Riki: Is he... the instigator? He's... much younger than I thought. If it weren't for that scar on his left cheek, he'd be pretty enough to be a host at club Dias... Katze: You're right on time. Good. You pass. Riki: I knew it. He doesn't seem to be just anyone. Katze: Your name? Riki: Riki. Katze: Your age? Riki: Almost 16. Katze: Were you told the details for this job? Riki: No. Zack said it'd be decided after meeting with you. In truth, I want this job really bad. But being perceived as too eager... Doesn't sit well with me. Katze: What I'm looking for is neither an errand boy looking for tips nor a smartass stealing goods to make a quick buck. There's nothing better than being both smart and bold, but I don't need a mad dog who cannot follow rules. If that's fine by you, want to give it a try? Riki: So those are your conditions? Katze: Right. Riki: So as long as I do my job following your rules, there won't be any problem? Katze: Yeah... Riki: Even if I'm a slum mongrel? Katze: I have no problem with that. Excellence isn't something you're born into, but something you reach. Only the results you have achieved with your own strength will become your backbone. That's all. Riki: (as if to ponder on it) What I achieve with my own strength will become my backbone... Let me try, then. Katze: We have a deal, then. SE: Katze takes a cigarette out of his breast pocket and lights it. Katze: (takes a puff) I'm Katze. (he slightly raises the corners of his mouth) Looking forward to working with you, Riki. SE: the sub-theme plays. Narrator: In a garbage dump where despair reigns, the only thing left is the freedom to rot away. No matter how much you try, there is always a door that won't open. You won't even get the slightest opportunity. Nobody wishes to be scorned as a mongrel from the slums, but they do no have the skills nor the force of will to get out of there. Their compassion towards others is offset by the right of the strongest. Even so, throwing away what little pride they have would reduce them to no more than trash. Running wild on modified air bikes and self-indulgently copulating. Living violently claiming their territory from dusk to dawn and roaming Midas by night. This all served as a diversion but this didn't amount to a tangible proof of their existence. However, no matter how heavily reality may weigh on their shoulders, as long as they are given the slightest opportunity, people may be able to change. There is no such thing a future that can't be changed. Even if that appears to be only a bluff. At the very least... we can change the way we live. If, with a bit of courage, we are given even a single chance... If we don't change ourselves, the world surrounding us won't. Nothing... will even start. There is no such a thing as a future that can't be changed. This thought may be the start of a small revolution. SE: the sub-theme fades out.

Characters: Zack, Riki In Ceres Sound Effect: the bustling of a junk food restaurant at lunch. (Outside, shops akin to small open-air stalls have gathered, tables and chairs are set in the middle, where everybody is eating. Of course, some people are eating standing up too.) Riki is eating alone (a crepe-like thin bread holding together some synthetic meat and the usual carbonated drink). Zack, a retailer, approaches Riki accompanied by his subordinates). People around him begin murmuring ("That's Zack, the retailer!", "He's huge!", "What's he doing here?" and so on). Zack: Yo, Riki! You alone? That's rare. Riki: what, it's you, Zack? SE: Zack moves his huge frame, holding a carbonated alcoholic drink in one hand, and drags a chair to sit beside Riki. Zack: (suddenly moves his face closer, to speak in a low voice) Say Riki... how about becoming a carrier? Riki: ... a carrier? Zack: Yeah. Riki: Why? Aren't you a retailer? Zack: In fact, someone I know asked me. Riki: For a carrier? Zack: Apparently, the guy they used messed up. Won't work for a while. So they're looking for a replacement. Riki: Hmm... meaning, it's dangerous? (eats his bread) Zack: (gulping down his carbonated alcohol)I don't know the specifics. But, well, they're not looking for an errand boy, so maybe there's some risk to it. But you'll make good money for that. Riki: If they're fine even with slum mongrels, that makes them even more shady to me. Zack: As long as you're efficient, they don't care about where you're from. SE: Zack downs his drink. Riki: Down in one go? I swear you're a monster, Zack... Anyone would have choked and thrown it all up. Zack: Even so, just anybody won't do. They let me choose, but they're also testing my judgment. Riki: Meaning, I meet your standards? Zack: What're you saying? It's a given, i'm putting my trust and asking "Bison's Riki". Riki: (drinks, considering what to do) Zack: What do you think, Riki? Want to try meeting them? If it's no good, you can always turn them down there. Riki: a carrier... Not gonna lie, that does sound good. So who do i have to meet and where? Zack: (beaming) You'll do it? Riki: I'm just saying I'll try meeting them. Zack: Oh, right. You can always talk about the job after that. SE: Zack pulls a card holder from his pocket. He takes a card out and gives it to Riki. Zack: Here, take it. Riki: (takes the card and eyes it suspiciously) Ugh, what's that? Zack: I told you, that's your meeting point, no? Riki: Zack, you're pulling my leg? Zack: (immediately denies) No, no. Told you, I'm serious. Riki: what the fuck is serious about this? Ain't there nothing but numbers and weird symbols? Zack: That's why I told you, Riki, I'm putting my trust in you. Right? Riki: So, what? You mean you're not qualified to become a carrier if you can't decipher that? Zack: No, well... in a way... (tries to hide his smile) Then, I'm counting on you, Riki (gets up hurriedly). SE: Zack gets up in a hurry. Riki: Hey, Zack! SE: Zack ignores Riki's call and leaves quickly. Riki: (lightly clicks his tongue) Zack, I swear... What the hell do you want me to do with that? SE: the noises of the restaurant fade out.

Characters: Katze, Iason Midas, Area 4 Sound Effect: sound of a smooth air car traffic. An air limousine stops at the entrance of the reception center. Iason steps out of the limousine. Katze: (bowing his head promptly) I was awaiting your arrival, Lord Iason. Iason: (humming in response) SE: the automatic doors slide open and they both enter. They ride the magnetic elevator to the 20th floor below ground. They get out and walk a silent corridor. Iason: Katze, has an Aurora Coin surfaced in the slums? Katze: No, not yet. Iason: It's been past half a month but it hasn't surfaced yet? Did he disappoint me? Or... No trace of it being resold in Midas? Katze: None. Iason: Without a doubt? Katze: Yes. An Aurora Coin is an extremely particular item, so we would immediately know if it were sold. As long as someone knowing its worth doesn't hide it away, it will be documented. Iason: Meaning the coin is still in his hands? Or did he throw it away in a fit of rage? Well, that wouldn't be impossible considering the situation. Katze: Lord Iason. Iason: What is it? Katze: May I inquire about something? Iason: What? Katze: For what reason would an Aurora Coin surface in the slums? Iason: Does it concern you? Katze: If this information didn't come from you, Lord Iason, I would consider it as nothing more than a joke. The places where it can be used are restricted... because it's an extremely particular coin. Iason: Right. Even though it has virtually no value as a coin, in an other sense it is worth a lot of money. But for someone who doesn't know its true worth, it is but a useless possession. Katze: In that sense, the slums and an Aurora Coin are on opposite poles. For what reason are you certain this will surface in the less likely of places? Iason: Katze. Katze: Yes. Iason: The other day, I found something truly interesting in Midas. Katze: Something... interesting? Iason: Yes. He had lustrous jet-black hair and insolent almond-shaped black eyes, that slum mongrel. Katze: (unconsciously holds his breath) Iason: Oh. This is rare sight. To see Katze's face change colors so evidently. I didn't think they would be acquainted, but to think he would identify him from such vague characteristics as black hair and black eyes? This is interesting. I didn't foresee things unfolding this way, but this shitty brat somehow seems to be a rarer species in the slums than I thought. Katze, try putting him to work. Katze: (dumbfounded)... pardon? Iason: I will leave the details to you. Regardless of wether he turns out to be useful, you are to report the details to me. Katze: (slightly hesitant) Iason: Understood? Katze: (feeling painfully he has no say in the matter) ... yes. SE: their footsteps fade out.

SE: Bison’s members (around ten) celebrate today’s win. There's a reat satisfaction from crushing “Baldur”, which had made an habit of obnoxiously trying to mess with them. They drink, eat and chatter. Riki is resting on a sofa, as if to draw a line between him and the other members, drinking sparingly from the popular carbonated alcohol of the slums. Riki: Shit… I should feel elated we’ve scattered Baldur… but I can’t clear my head. Suddenly, he recalls Iason’s voice, which seems to pierce through his head: Iason: Do you always make a living by dragging men to such places to devour them when you miss your target? Riki: Shit… Iason: So you only need to do as I tell you and cry for me. That’s all. There’s no need for anything more. Riki: Shut up… Iason: It seems your mouth the only assertive part of you. Riki: Stop! SE: Riki grips the bottle Iason: This is the root of your pleasure. Make sure to remember it well. Riki: Get lost! SE: Riki downs his drink Iason: Not yet… Riki: *swallows* SE: Riki throws the bottle. Surprised by this sudden noise, Bison's members fall silent. Guy calmly goes to Riki. Guy: What’s wrong, Riki? Riki: Nothing… Guy: You’re sure? Riki: Yeah… I’m just… a bit irked. SE: Guy sits beside Riki Guy: Good, then. Riki: ...I’m sorry… Guy: For what? Riki: for smashing it... Guy: *chuckling* You’ll just have to clean it later! SE: Riki slowly leans on Guy Guy: What is it? Riki: … sleepy. Guy: it's okay! Come on, then! I’ll lend you my lap. SE: as if to cling to Guy’s waist, Riki circles it with an arm and curls up on the sofa, seemingly nuzzling his head on his lap. Guy lovingly strokes his hair many times over. Guy: You always snuggle up to me when you’ve reached an impasse, that hasn’t changed since our time in Guardian, Riki. I don’t know what’s been bothering you, but everything will be alright. I’m here for you. Because I’m your pairing partner. You know I’ll spoil you rotten, right? Riki. SE: Guy lightly kisses Riki’s forehead. The members staring at them collectively let out a big sigh. Norris (16): Ah, that freaked me out! I thought something was kicking off, got my heart pounding for a bit... Richie (14): What’s up? A fight? Luke (16): You dumbass… This is why you’re just a brat barely out of Guardian. Richie: What? I’m not a brat! I can peel it off down there, I even have hair growing! Luke: Just peeling it off doesn’t make you an adult. It just makes you a masturbating virgin. Richie: Luke’s pissing me off… just because he thinks he’s bigger than me. Sid (16): It’s not about being big or not, Richie. Don’t sweat it. Norris: That’s rich, coming from you, the biggest D in Bison. I don’t find so convincing. Luke: Hmm… when did you see it, Norris? Norris: The other day. I licked it. Richie: Eh? Luke: Wha-?! Richie: You licked it… Norris… Sid’s… Luke: You want me to lick yours, Richie? Richie: No way! If I had to pick someone… then, I’d like Guy! SE: Sid reflexively hits Richie on the head. Richie: It hurts! What was that for? Sid: You idiot! Watch your damn mouth! Norris: Yeah! Don’t forget he’s Riki’s pairing partner! Richie: what? Luke: I swear, you’re a moron… You’ve never felt anything watching them? Richie: But… you were the one telling me Riki didn’t belong to anyone and was off limits, Luke! Sid: For everyone except for Guy. Keep that in mind. That’s a plain fact for you. Luke: they’ve been together since Guardian, after all. Richie: for real? Luke: You bet! They’ve been madly in love ever since. Norris: that was a super famous story back then! Even I heard it, and I was in a different block. Sid: That’s the reason Guy was transferred to another block out of the blue. Not that it changed anything, though. Norris: The Sisters didn’t understand anything. Didn’t have an ounce of kindness either... Richie: So, Riki and Guy… they’re doing it? Norris: I mean… they’re pairing partners after all. Luke: And they’re not hiding from anyone! Always, everywhere, they’re getting it on… SE: Norris kicks Luke’s shin. Luke: Norris… Norris: They’re no exhibitionists like you! Luke: I don’t want to hear that from the guy who snuck Sid in for sex. Norris: Doesn’t mean I jumped on him. Right, Sid? Sid: Norris, please, stop talking about that... Richie: I want to hear it! Norris: Well, if you insist…

You can now find the link to the English translation of "Musk" on this page! This translation was done directly from Japanese.

Yes, I’m back! And updates are coming...Thank you for the support (ToT)!!