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14/09/10

Changed story to make it my own original work. Sequels to follow.

Feedback is appreciated.

Anyway...

ANIMALS OF THE DEEP WOODS

The Snake

- Copyright 2010. By BlackBird.


Contents:

- Preface
Chapter 1: Michael
Chapter 2: Black Bird
- Maiko
Chapter 3: The Zodiac
Chapter 4: Black Cobra
- The silence of sand





PREFACE:

In the harsh, arid desert, a Black Cobra had found it's weakened prey, laying across the hot, blinding sands - gasping for breath, laying on it's back in a pool of crimson blood which stained the sand below it. The Cobra slivered victoriously forward to the immobile Black Bird, it's left wing and foot broken as it struggled to turn itself around.

The Black Bird's small, beady black eye stared back to the Cobra, which slithered it's tongue out in a wild flicker, it's brilliant noir scales reflecting from the relentless sun above.

The Cobra raised it's body high into the air, head facing down to the Black Bird as a long, dark shadow cast over.



CHAPTER 1: MICHAEL

"Mike, where are you going?" Jillian asked as she grudgingly turned her head to the small, black digital alarm clock that sat on the bedside drawer, displaying in red LED 2.30am.

Michael groaned as he got changed in his Uniform. Neatly pressing his hands to his shirt before holstering his Utility belt around his waist, throwing a wind-breaker jacket over his blue shirt to conceal the belt that rested just above his navy cargo pants.

"I just got paged, I am required to investigate a potential street race that may occur on the M4 highway." Michael explained, turning his head to his beautiful wife, smiling he leant over the bed to plant a kiss on her cheek before she drifted off to sleep, all too familiar with this scenario, though deep down inside she wish he'd choose a different role in his job.

Michael had a passion for his job as a Highway Patrol Officer. His role was to catch speeding, reckless, defect drivers on the Highways of New South Wales in Australia. Nothing more, nothing less.

It was a cold Winter's night as Michael stepped out from his 2-storey house in Castle Hill, the air snapping against his nose while he locked the varnished door behind him, a dull sound created. Michael begun to walk down his concrete driveway to the white Ford Focus that sat along the curb of the street, a few dim streetlights the only source of light. Michael stepped in the car immediately, a slight shudder coming from his breath as he started the car quickly. A silent purr came from the engine as the LED displays lit in front of him. The air-conditioning was on a warm setting, however the car's engine was still cold, blowing icy air towards Michael's face. Responding to the cold he raised the vents upwards to avoid the chill while he waited for the heat to kick in. The radio was playing softly in the background while he buckled his seat belt, putting the gear into 'D' and drove off onto the street.

The Police Station was only a few turns away from Michael's street, which was usually the way for most Police in the area. Michael pulled up along the curb near the Station, switching the engine off - it didn't even have enough time to heat the air-conditioning. Michael unbuckled himself and put the car into park, stepping out of the car and gently shutting the door to create a dull thud. It became locked with the central-locking as a faint chirp could be heard.
Approaching the Station door, Michael called the office desk from his mobile phone, a middle aged woman answered knowingly as the front door suddenly clicked open.

Michael stepped into the building, the sterile, bright light flooded the room that had an old cork noticeboard on the left wall of the entrance, tacked on with many bits and pieces of information regarding the local area. The right wall was a plain wash of white paint, that had a few flecks peeling off from the corner of the ceiling.
Michael approached the desk, the woman behind the counter smiled,

"Good morning Michael, keys are already in the Vehicle." She explained as she looked back down to the monitor in front of her.

"Thanks Stacey." Michael replied, making his way behind the office through to another door that veered to the right of the building. Opening the door carefully, Michael lead himself into the Garage, that held two cars. One was a standard unit car, donning the standard blue checkered vinyl. The other was a Black 2008 Holden Commodore SS, unmarked. It stood fierce, with it's gadgets concealed on the dashboard.

Michael opened the door, to find the keys in the ignition already. He sighed as turned the key slightly, a loud, bestial roar emitted from the exhaust and engine that echoed through the garage. While the car idled, Michael observed his surroundings within the car, ensuring everything was in place. After a few minutes, once satisfied with his observation, the garage door opened which created a whirring sound as Michael placed the car into 'D' and moved forward slowly.

It was around 3am now, Michael gently turned left out of the Station towards the street through an extra security gate that was to the right of the building. He flicked on his indicator turning, making his way to the M7 motorway, which would lead him to the M4 Toll Highway.
The car had brilliant handling and head-pushing acceleration as Michael darted through the dark, quiet streets. Upon entering the entry point to the M7, Michael put his foot down, the acceleration kicking as the engine released a hungry roar, traveling uphill through the auto-pay toll connecting to the M7. A few semi-trailers scattered along the M7 road as Michael went inbound to the M4. The roads were lined with natural bushland as they blurred in the still of the night, passing by trucks at 105km/h. The limit was 100km/h. After 15 minutes Michael looked up to a large green sign to see the M4 was less than a kilometer away. Michael caught up to a truck in front of them as he swerved to the right lane, speeding to 120km/h in an instant before indicating to move into the left lane, flowing through to exit off onto the M4.

The M4's road was a contrast to that of the M7, a newly developed road. The M4 had three lanes, the left lane with some crackled tar from trucks, the middle and right side were in fair condition besides the slight wearing paint that divided the roads. To the left of the road was a large, continuous wall that had young saplings planted. To the right was an island that divided the left and right hand side of the highway, mostly as uneven leveled grass. Coming down from the Highway, there were a handful of cars on either side of the road, driving by in motion.

Michael proceeded along the M4 at a constant speed of 100km/h in the 100 zone, before turning left into the service station and McDonalds, where he noticed a mixed group of five conspicuous men. Michael parked his car the far right side of the McDonalds carpark, where he took in a better view of the men, leaving his car to idle.
Two appeared to be in their early 20's while the other three appeared in their mid-20's. Standing by their cars, it was almost like a Billboard above their heads that they were up to something. Their cars were lined up in a hastily manner, consisting of a lime green 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer gli coupe, with a simple body kit and exhaust. Beside it sat a Black early 90's Suzuki Swift, that hinted it had a turbo judging by the small Intercooler at the front. Michael couldn't identify the other three cars, as they were heavily modified in appearance, and appeared to be Japanese Imports.

He took a guess one of them was at least a Skyline.

Michael started his car up again, the consistent, hungry roar escaping the exhaust as the men turned their heads for a moment to notice it was a Black Commodore, before turning around again to talk amongst themselves. Michael drove around the edge of the carpark, escaping through on the Highway again where he opened up the throttle, reaching 100km/h easily as he looked into his rear vision mirror. Michael continued driving until reaching the Speed Camera, which he took a guess the men would race from a few hundred meters away from. Michael parked the Commodore along the grass in the middle island of the road, concealed in shadow from a few dense shrubs.

Michael waited in silence with the headlights off, the engine idling gently, holding his reading gun to the window, feeling anticipation every moment he held the gun up beside the window.

It was around 4.30am when suddenly they drove past.

Five cars in a singular formation passed by, the roar of modified engines able to be heard as the three unidentifiable cars lead first, followed by the Lancer and Swift which trailed behind. They kept even distance, the front car being a Skyline as Michael thought earlier. He couldn't identify the model, as there was no badge or wing. It was a navy blue colour, blurring brilliantly past which a roar. He could not hear the sound of a waste gate however. Michael looked down to check his gun each time, thinking out loud,

"94...96...98...92...93..." Michael murmured to himself in confusion, shaking his head in disbelief as he was sure they would of been the group he was referred to. Maybe he had made them suspicious back in the carpark afterall? Perhaps they have been caught before? But why would they all be out at this time of morning...? Michael shook his head again lost in thought as he let a sigh escape, soon hearing a wild chirp escape from the gun. Michael looked down to notice a speed that widened his eyes looking down to the LED screen,


220km/h.


Michael's engine roared to life as an expression of confusion came over him. He had not heard a car drive past, nor saw one. He had become careless for that moment where it really counted. The headlights flickered on as the Red and Blue lights in front of his dashboard near the window set off, his heart beating to the fast paced rhythm of the lights in front of him flashing, the Commodore reaching over 120km/h in a few seconds after skidding wildly onto the tarmac. Reaching up to 170km/h Michael's hands begun to sweat as he reached down to wipe his hands on his lap one at a time before gripping the steering wheel, looking ahead to notice a build up of traffic - a black BMW cutting through traffic at an excessive speed, overtaking the group of drivers he suspected before as they had spread out over the three lanes. The cars on the right hand side quickly pulled over to the left as the Commodore breathed down the back of their necks with the lights flashing wildly. Each car believing they needed to pull over, they pulled over to the left hand strip, each watching in relief and amazement as the Commodore did not stop for them. The other three cars pulled up along the side of the road wondering what happened to their friends.

The BMW was approximately 100 meters away as it had slowed down significantly, pulling into the left lane as the Commodore followed in simulation. The BMW had reached to 94km/h as the Commodore persisted behind the BMW, only meters away from it's sleek bumper as it finally realized the Beast was after it. The BMW surrendered after 50 meters, pulling into the left lane, the Commodore followed suit coming to a stand still. Cars passing by slowed down instantly.

Michael lowered his head, a slight smile coming across his face as he stopped the engine to turn on the surveillance cameras. Exiting the vehicle, Michael walked victoriously towards the BMW, with no expression no his face. The window was still raised up, tinted black. Michael could not see into the car. Michael tapped beside the window, prompting the window to be lowered. A face emerged from the shade of the tint in the night, a man of Middle-Eastern appearance looked up towards Michael, a solemn, nonchalant expression across his face. Michael cleared his throat before speaking with authority, a droll tone in his voice,

"You are currently under surveillance with Audio. I have recorded you reaching a speed of 220km/h in a 100km/h zone, as well as reckless driving. Show me your licence"

The man was silent as Michael continued, handing over his licence. He was a Provisional driver on Green level, however there were no plates to be seen on the car indicating so after a quick observation.

"Are you aware of the speed you were at?"

The man remained silent, staring to Michael's notebook that was clasped in his hand, soon noticing a device come from Michael's belt that measured Alcohol concentration.

"Sir, please count to ten while speaking in front of this reader." Micheal commanded as he took the device several inches away from the face of the quiet man.

"One...Two...Three...Four...Five..."

The machine chirped. It read '0.000'.

Michael sighed, as he instructed the man he would be back in a moment while he was at his own car again. Time passed. It had been about 5 minutes when Michael returned, handing back two items. The man's licence, and a document that displayed a large fine and a driving probation of six months minimum. The man's eyes widened for a moment. Michael did not mention the plates missing on the car, as man continued reading what he had been charged with. Michael proceeded to walk back to his vehicle and sat inside before starting his car to speed off down the road, taking the first exit on his left in haste.

* * * * *

The smell of cooking filled the room with a heady aroma as Michael sat at the Kitchen table, quietly sipping on a cup of black coffee while he watched Jillian prepare breakfast near the stove, a window nearby with yellow mesh curtains filtered the sunlight through, flooding the floor in light to expose dust motes floating gently through the air.

"How was work?" Jillian asked, not turning her head away from the mixture of sausages, egg and tomato that sizzled in the fry pan.

"No different to the usual." Michael replied, pulling the cup away from his top lip.

Jillian laughed slightly, turning her head. "A letter came in the mail for you."

Michael sighed, looking to his left near the telephone that was flush to the biege coloured wall. A letter was addressed to him, from the Federal Police Deptartment.



Michael,

You have been chosen as one of two officers for transfer to Tokyo, Japan for a new exercise being conducted on their roads. We have recently been contacted by Japanese Officials interested in our methods of Highway Patrol, they would like us to bring our own over there to demonstrate.

The Salary is lucrative and all expenses are paid for. You will stay at Shiba-Park in the middle of Tokyo, where you will meet your new partner the following day at Tokyo Police HQ.

Your flight is scheduled for 5th August at Sydney Airport.

Enclosed are your flight passes. You may collect your new apartment keys from Tokyo Police HQ.

Congratulations once again.



Regards,

FPD Australia



Michael placed the letter down, two tickets exposed from the envelope on the table as Michael absorbed what he had just read for a moment, unsure what to think. Jillian looked over to him, the expression that had come across his face worrying her.

"Honey, what's wrong?"

Michael raised his eyes to meet Jillian's. It was the same look he had given her when they had to transfer to another town. Jillian sighed with expectation.

"I have been promoted."

Jillian jumped, "Promoted!? Oh honey, congratulations!" Running over from the stove, she hugged Michael from behind, grabbing the letter, her expression changing as she read the letter with one hand.

"Japan!? Of all places!?" Jillian reacted surprised, "I wonder how damn lucrative they must be talking!"

Michael knew Jillian had been through a lot in their Marriage with their constant re-locating, however this time it pushed new boundaries. There was no real choice in the matter for Michael. As the morning lingered on, they both sat behind the kitchen table, the idea of moving to a completely different part of the world scaring and exciting them at the same time. Michael was thankful Jillian had a high tolerance for these changes, however she was aware what she was getting herself into when they married.

"Well, we have approximately a week left here." Michael realized, thinking out loud after a minute of silence.

Jillian sighed, returning to the stove.

* * * * *

August 5th, 11.00am

Michael and Jillian had taken their seats, ready for the eight hour flight. Michael sat beside the window while Jillian was beside him. The stir of the planes engine could be heard as it begun to prepare for take off, circling around the airstrip lanes for five minutes before silence broke again - the sound of the engine kicked in again, except this time much louder and fierce as they felt the pull from the power of the plane start to shoot them across the road. Michael peered down to the road, everything a blur until suddenly Australia seemed a distant place.

Michael was absorbed in his Japanese phrase book for the entire flight, while Jillian watched Foxtel on the TV installed at the back of the seat in front of her. Neither had been to Japan before, let alone outside the country. Time passed.

Outside the window it was nighttime, a brilliant cluster of lights could be seen, with a long highway and natural bushland surrounding could be seen following from the Airport below.

"This must be Narita." Michael stated, looking to Jillian who had drifted off to sleep

They collected their baggage once off the plane and made their way to the shuttle bus. The Summer air made it's presense already and was welcome from the cold bite of Australia's winter. Michael and Jillian always travelled light, never knowing when Michael would have to move again, so they only had three bags. A man greeted them at the shuttle bus nodding slightly. Michael returned the nod sheepishly, a childish smile coming across his face. Boarding the bus, Michael seated himself beside the window again, holding Jillian's hand. The bus was full of Japanese businessmen and some families. Michael and Jillian were the only foreigners that were present. Jillian expressed to Michael she felt a bit alienated, Michael gripped her hand, smiling to her.

The bus turned away from the curb of the waiting area as it begun to turn around.

"How far is Tokyo away from here?" Jillian asked, looking to Michael in wonder.

"About two hours." Michael sighed, "Well at least we won't have much in the way of lights, we will be taking the highway there."

"Oh...I didn't think they had the space for that kind of thing here?" Jillian remarked.

"Well, according to this book, it had some information on this country at the front. The highway is known as Wangan, the longest stretch in Japan." Michael had read over this passage on the plane many times.

"I see." Jillian replied as she placed her head against Michael's shoulder. Michael looked outside to notice they were already on the Highway. The bus was on the far left lane. It was too dark for Michael to notice any other real detail about the road, except most of the Stereotype's he wanted to believe already were dissolving. The road was fairly busy, however there was something he noticed, which begun to confirm he did not really know anything about Japan.

All the cars he had seen so far passing by were very new, and very ordinary looking.

Michael eagerly looked out the window, like a little boy would, wanting to see cars modified the way they were back in Sydney, hearing stories of how Japanese cars were all modified and were all the popular models he knew such as WRX, Skyline, Evolution, RX-7...but, there was nothing to be seen. Michael could not recognize the car models as they drove past. They were near silent as they traveled along the road. Michael sighed as he kept his eyes locked to the road and surrounding environment, which mostly consisted of hills and thick dense bushland. Occasionally they would pass a building, to the left hand side of them, but with no exit to reach them. Time passed and Michael begun to wonder what problems they could possibly have with these type of vehicles on the road. They looked new, safe, quiet...he couldn't understand from his observations alone. No one was speeding, at all.

He closed his eyes.

A certain amount of time had passed, Michael and Jillian being woken up to a ping-pong type sound, an announcement being made in Japanese before an English version followed, advising passengers for anyone wishing to exit off for Shiba-Koen needed to do so.

"Shiba-Koen...Shiba Park, this must be it." Jillian noted as they both got up off their seats and onto the street to collect their luggage from the bus. Michael looked down to the small map that was included in his phrase book as looked around feeling lost. Another foreigner walked past, a middle aged man that was overweight, wearing dark clothing and carrying two large black bags.

"Ah! Excuse me mate! We are looking for Shiba Park?" Michael asked the man.

"Oh, me too! I just asked a shop down there where it is. Shiba Park Hotel right? It should be this way." The man replied.

They followed each other and chatted amongst themselves, mostly of small talk as Michael tried to avoid bringing up he worked for the Police, soon passing over a bridge before reaching a building that had warm lighting shone against it's cream coloured walls. The three of them figured this must of been Shiba Park Hotel. Michael and Jillian thanked the man for his help as they checked into reception, greeted by a friendly man in his early thirties. He spoke very good English, in fact, they all did. Michael and Jillian overheard other staff chat to people checking in. This hotel did not look very traditional at all to Japan, it had a very Western and European prestige feel. The soft lighting gave the large lobby area a warm feel. To the right was a bar and Piano room, that connected to a Restaurant. To the left was a row of various paintings showing landscapes. Michael collected the keys to their room as they made their way. Living in a hotel sounded like something elopes would do, which made him laugh to himself.

Michael and Jillian found their room eventually. It was on the second level and faced out to the street. They had a one bedroom apartment with a bathroom and small kitchen. It was fairly simple living, however they didn't mind and were expectant.

"It's getting late, I suppose I will go down to the Station tomorrow." Michael exhaled.

"How about we get a bite to eat?" Jillian requested, Michael feeling hungry himself he agreed without much thought as the both went for the door, Michael taking along the phrase book.

They left the hotel and turned left down the street. Walking along the quiet, dim lit footpath they stopped as Jillian spotted something unusual. Michael stopped following Jillian's cue.

"What? Vending machines? Out here on the street?" Jillian questioned in amusement as she peered towards the machine noticing the many unique looking beverages available. She could only recognize the Coke bottle, which was a 200ml size. Most of the drinks cost 100 Yen.

"You want one?" Michael asked before rummaging through his pocket for Yen, "I have only notes at the moment, let's get dinner first and I can break down some of this change for the machine, okay?"

Jillian nodded as they moved away from the machine and proceeded towards what appeared to be the main street of Shiba-Koen. Michael had noticed there were no street signs after all, as the book he read advised there were very few street signs around. They agreed to each other to use buildings as landmarks, noticing Tokyo Tower to their right as they got to the end of the street. Tokyo Tower illuminated a fiery orange, resembling something like the Eiffel Tower in France.

"Let's use Tokyo Tower as our first landmark for knowing which direction to walk to back home." Michael looked across the road to see a Pub, "This Pub can indicate that the street opposite is our street."

Jillian listened while they both turned left down the main street. The street was wide and full of street lights that illuminated the buildings. The buildings were a few storeys tall each and consisted mostly of retail stores and bars. A few places for food were scattered along the street as they begun to walk down the road, the different aroma's of cooking escaping the windows of buildings had a familiarity about them, as Australia is very diverse with their food they were use to different styles of cooking. The street was relatively busy for a Wednesday night, most people walking by appeared to be locals. To the left of the street they noticed a small shop with the brick work covered in varnished wooden planks, a warm glow escaping from the shop the followed with the homely waft of home cooking - barbecue in particular. It smelt like chicken and various spices. Michael and Jillian stepped inside and soon discovered it was a Yakitori bar. Most of the patrons were businessmen who were enjoying Yakitori with a beer. Seating themselves at the bar, Michael ordered some Yakitori with cucumber, Ume and rice for them both - looking the English scrawled on the menu next to the Kanji.

"I'll have two Asahi drafts too please." Michael asked, forgetting they may not have spoke English as the chef at the hot plate stared, before looking to the waiter. The waiter hurried over as he overheard Michael talk, translating fast for the chef as he nodded. The chef seemed a bit disgruntled as he muttered,

"Gaijin..."

Michael let out a sigh of relief, wondering if he had said something wrong, however the waiter was more than polite and seemed to reassure them they were welcome here.

Hours passed and it was approximately 1am now. The bar was still brimming with people, most drunk as Michael and Jillian decided it had been long enough of a day. Michael paid the waiter behind the counter at the back of the shop receiving his change, figuring the coins should be enough for a drink on the way back home. They made their way out the door, the street still relatively busy with people as they begun walking back to the Hotel.

"Let's try for that vending machine again!" Jillian piped up, looking towards Michael.

"We have enough change." Michael smiled.

They turned around the corner, onto where their street was except walking on the other side this time, so they were concealed in shadow as they walked. Jillian walked on the side closest to the curb.

A dull roar could be heard from behind them as they continued walking. A sudden flash of headlights appeared from behind them casting long shadows of the couple, a loud screech and shrill scream from an engine of a car sounded like it was next to them as Michael and Jillian turned their heads in horror.

A car came screeching like mad sideways out of control towards their direction, the headlights now facing to the left side of them as the drivers side came towards the direction of Jillian, smoke and the smell of burned rubber blazed the street behind the car as Michael grabbed for Jillian pulling her towards him in an instinctive reaction. The car missed just metres away from Jillian as it swung it's body around in a one-eighty degree motion, the rear tail light smashing against a vending machine up onto the footpath.

The whirring sound of a police siren could be heard nearby. Michael held Jillian as they looked to the damaged car in front of them.



CHAPTER 2: BLACK BIRD



August 14th.

Michael had just finished a long day at the Police Station, mostly doing errands work as he was new to the Country and yet to become familiar to the roads. As Michael begun to clean up around his desk and collect his belongings to go home a Police Officer paced around the cubicles, searching for other officers. Michael being only one of few left in the office decided to approach the officer to see what he was looking for.

"Sorry to interrupt you, but what are you searching for? I understand I am new around here but maybe I can help out somehow?" Michael chimed in, looking to the officer - who appeared to be a short and round man, sweating from the brow.

The officer replied, "I...I don't feel so good. I think I have stomach flu. I am meant to have a shift on the highway tonight, but I am not up to it. I need someone to cover for me." The officer looked to Michael hopefully.

"Oh, I would like to help out. But I am rather new around here..." Michael explained, watching the concern on the officers face grow.

"Ah! Yes you are the new one indeed, look, I know you are new, but I am willing to drive passenger and show you around the roads, I just can't drive..." The officer begun to cough, covering his mouth with his left hand.

Michael extended his hand out, "I'm Michael."

The officer looked a little surprised, but remembered hand shaking was a Western practice as he reluctantly extended his right hand to shake his, "Wataru".

"Okay Wataru, I was just about to leave but I will take it as a good chance to get to know the roads?" Michael grinned.

"Well yes, this won't be difficult. We will stick to Wangan, the main highway." Wataru explained nodding.

Michael and Wataru left the office to make their way to the garage. Within the garage were three Mistubishi Evolution 10 Police vehicles, marked in black and white. Michael gawked at how aggressive the car looked overall. Wataru took a set of keys from his pocket, prompting to Michael all the different devices within the car as they both sat in one of the vehicles. The inside of the Mitsubishi was black, with many different control panels - Wataru only showed Michael how to activate the siren lights and speed capture. Michael listened, trying to absorb everything Wataru explained. Wataru pressed a remote button, the garage door opening as he instructed Michael to drive the vehicle slowly and carefully out of the garage, coughing into his hand before wiping another layer of sweat from his brow.

"Michael, these are fast cars. To tell you the truth, no one knows you are doing this for me, which I am most appreciative of." Wataru bowed slightly in his seat.

Michael and Wataru proceeded past Tokyo Tower for several kilometers until reaching an entry point onto Yokohane line.

"Now, Michael...since we are on a relatively straight road and just to give you an idea on the speed of these vehicles, I would like you to step on it for a little bit...part of the job I do is to keep up with fast cars to be able to pull them over you know..." Wataru spoke quickly.

Michael, who was driving in fifth gear, dropped it down to fourth, a sudden kick back from the car occurred as the turbo spooled aggressively, launching the car up along the ramp, gripping to the road like a train on rails. Michael's hands shook from exhilaration as he kept his foot down, easily surpassing 130km/h in a few seconds. Wataru instructed Michael to ease on the acceleration and to continue along the line for another few kilometres until reaching the Wangan entry point. The Evo purred along with Michael's careful driving until Wataru instructed Michael to go full throttle again upon arriving to the Wangan entry point. Michael's palms became very sweaty from the burst of speed, making his body push into the back of his seat.

"Michael, now on the Wangan will we pull over to the side of the road and wait." Wataru briefly mentioned, gesturing to an open space on the left approximately fifty metres ahead.

Michael pulled over, engine braking before applying the brakes to have the car come to a complete stop. Wataru sighed, wiping his head again. There was suddenly silence.

"So, now we wait?" Michael asked.

"Yes, we wait now."

"How many people would you catch in a shift?"

"Not many, it's fairly quiet at this time of night."

"Then...why do a shift tonight and not on a busier night?"

"There are exceptions." Wataru said as he looked out the front window, turning his gaze to Michael.

"I don't get what you mean..."

Wataru flicked on the speed capture device, a red light display appearing in the small rectangular screen fixed to the dashboard. Wataru seemed nervous, almost as if he were anticipating something to be coming along soon. Very soon. Wataru looked to the screen again before looking to his watch urgently. Michael started to wonder what was happening before asking what the matter seemed to be. Wataru's gaze looked out across the stretched highway before uttering out the words frantically,

"Start driving."

"What, aren't we meant to wait though?"

"Go!"

Michael's expression was that of confusion as he set his blinker to indicate back onto the highway, looking over his shoulder for traffic when suddenly he saw them. A white R32 GT-R, a red Honda S2000 and a black Porsche 997. Wataru coughed into his hand, leaning forward as Michael watched the three cars drive past.

"These cars seem different than the others I've noticed around." Michael remarked as he begun driving on the highway. Wataru kept silent.

Michael looked down to the speed capture device for the vehicles ahead - all speeds shown were compliant to the limits. Wataru looked over to Michael before speaking, "Catch up to those three cars, we must before they reach any speed exit that would lead to C1 route." Michael listened as he planted his foot to the floor, the sound of the wastegates coming from the engine making their presence known as he shifted into 5th gear, reaching over 130km/h. Wataru looked to the road ahead, noticing the three cars from before suddenly line up behind each other on the far left side of the highway, almost as if they were in planned formation.

"Michael, check the speed sensor!" Wataru piped up.

Michael gazed down, an expression of surprise coming across his face as he had found the speed sensor had captured the three cars reaching over 220km/h each. Michael looked up again quickly to notice the cars were pulling further away from him. Michael kept his foot down on the accelerator, reaching to 170km/h and further 200km/h but the cars ahead begun to disappear into the darkness of the highway. A sudden realization came over Michael that they were beginning to enter heavier traffic.

"Wataru, there was no traffic before...but now we seem to be getting quite built up!" Michael spoke up.

"Pull back, we have lost them." Wataru sighed.

Before Michael could remark, a silver Toyota Camry cut out in front of Michael. Still in a speed of approximately 150km/h Michael's eyes widened in horror as he slammed the brakes, a loud screeching sound created from the disc brakes as Michael jerked the steering wheel to avoid hitting the Camry, causing the Evo to spin out. Michael reached out to extend his arm over Wataru's chest as the car came to a sudden stop, facing sideways on the highway. A few sedans behind them came to a sudden stop, missing just inches away from their front bumper as they skimmed around the car. Michael quickly flicked the siren on as the cars coming from behind suddenly came to a slow halt. Turning the car around again with his shaking hands, he proceeded to pull over to the side of the road. Wataru appeared calm the whole time though.

"I'm sorry Wataru, I just couldn't keep up..."

Wataru nodded, wiping away sweat from his cheek, "You can't in this vehicle. None of us can."

Michael looked shocked, "How do you catch them!?"

"We don't, well at least not in these cars."

Michael looked to Wataru, "I don't understand, why do we use these then for Highway Patrol?"

"Well...for the ordinary and mild modified vehicles that speed. Those cars however, are special. The black Porsche in particular. We just come out every now and then to show we are trying, though in secret we know it's moot...but it was a good opportunity to show you the shallow end of our problems here"

"What is so special about it? Well those cars anyway?" Michael pressed.

"They are highway racers. The black Porsche in particular is a famous vehicle known as Black Bird. A heavily modified vehicle. It use to have a rival a long time ago...but it is currently...un-roadworthy...so Black Bird has no real competition at the moment. The other Highway Patrol officers and myself are seeing it as an opportunity to try and stop him once and for all."

"How are you going to achieve that?" Michael asked, wondering.

Wataru smirked, "Well, Michael...that is where you come in."

Before Wataru could continue, a sudden notice came through their CB radio.

"Attention vehicles near the vicinity of C1, there is a current incident where a young woman has been hit by a speeding vehicle. So far we believe it may be a black Porsche, yet to be confirmed. Available vehicles are to attend near Tokyo Tower as soon as possible!"

Wataru motioned for Michael to switch the siren again as the Evo dashed across the road, blazing down the highway at great speed as the road lights flickered past, other vehicles switching lanes for the speeding bullet. Upon reaching the ramp leading to C1 Michael wondered how fast the other three cars must of gone down the sharp bend.

Michael pulled up along the scene of the accident, near Tokyo Tower. There was no sign of a black Porsche around, instead an Ambulance and two other police vehicles that had all their sirens on, with the other side of the road blocked off. Michael pulled up along the curb where the other two police cars were. A crowd had begun to develop to see what the commotion was about as Michael and Wataru got out of the car. They approached one of the paramedics asking what had happened,

The paramedic looked to both them, paying particular attention to Michael. Michael couldn't understand what the paramedic was trying to say as Wataru quickly translated, "The vehicle they believe was Black Bird, who had done a hit and run...most likely un-intentional, or more so didn't even realize he'd hit a pedestrian..."

"What about the victim?" Michael asked. The Paramedic turned his attention to Wataru, a grim expression across his face.

"She's in a critical condition." Wataru sighed.

Before the Paramedic could continue, Michael's head turned slightly to his side, noticing a stretcher twenty meters away which had the victim on it. He walked closer towards the woman, all noise around him going mute as his feet begun walking towards the stretcher without any thought, a sudden feeling of disgust coming over him before soon turning to anxiety, a sudden question striking his mind.

Something that disturbed him from even entertaining the thought.

Something that made him stop for a moment to even wonder why he was walking over to begin with, because it just wasn't possible in his mind.

Something that begun to make him wonder if the situation could of ever been changed on this night.

Something that made him want to turn around and let the paramedics do their job while he went on with his, and to go back home.

Something that made the back of his throat feel like his heart was pressing against it.

Five meters away, looking to the woman's blood stained hair and body covered in a blanket, Michael's eyes widened, his question suddenly answered in the most blunt way possible.

It was Jillian.





MAIKO

Somewhere in the depths of Tokyo's apartment blocks, a Fortune Teller sat in her Satin and Jewel filled room. The room was decorated with many objects implying something of an unexplainable, divine intervening - the only sign of modern living was a desktop computer that emitted a faint blue glow in the corner of the dim room. Within this room sat on a purple satin pillow a young female, unidentifiable from the low level of light within the room.

She appeared very distressed today.

An assistant of the young woman, that of a middle aged man entered the room, bowing slightly, "You still appear troubled Maiko?"

The young woman raised her eyelids slowly, "I keep having the same strange vision...a Black Cobra...eating a Black Bird alive in a harsh, arid environment."

"I wonder what it could mean..." The assistant pondered.

"I don't think we will ever know." Maiko solemnly replied.



CHAPTER 3: THE ZODIAC

August 15th.

It was a cold, early morning as Michael waited solemnly beside an unconscious Jillian in a private ward at the Tokyo Hospital. Michael moved away from the bed for a moment, looking out to the window which displayed a barrier of buildings. The outside looked as grey and icy as the Hospital. Michael turned his head to sit beside Jillian at her bed again, placing his palms to his forehead as he leaned forward, his elbows pressing against his knees. Michael waited eagerly for something to happen - anything. Yet nothing. One moment he was out of the office, on the Highway...now sitting beside his Wife who was potentially in a Coma. In a bout of frustration, Michael tried adding up if it was possibly Black Bird that did the hit and run, though the announcement did say a black Porsche. Shaking his head, his train of thought became abrupt as a doctor opened the door quietly, followed by Wataru.

"Michael, you'll have to come with me for a moment, the Doctor just needs to be alone with Jillian for awhile." Wataru calmly explained.

Michael raised his head to the two men, nodding slightly before sighing to stand up and walk out of the room with Wataru. Michael lowered his head, "What am I going to do now?"

Wataru asked, "What do you mean?"

"My wife is in there, potentially in a Coma."

"I am sorry Michael, there isn't much else we can do except leave it to the Doctor's hands. These guys bring recovery to our officers, she is safe." Wataru tried to reassure Michael.

"Maybe." Michael exhaled, crossing his arms.

"Look, let's get a coffee down at the Cafeteria." Wataru smiled.

"Sure." Michael raised his eyebrows, attempting to grin.

Michael and Wataru made their way down the hallway before reaching the lift to the Cafeteria. Wataru seemed to have something on his mind also, as his eyes kept darting to Michael as if he felt compelled to tell him something. Michael felt uneasy, catching out Wataru as they both entered the lift. "Wataru?" Michael pushed the button as the lift activated.

"Michael, there is a way."

"What?"

"Black Bird...y'know?" Wataru started to talk in a whisper.

Michael looked around quickly, yet no one was around, "You think he did the hit and run?"

"Of course. What other Porsche would be screaming around the streets of Tokyo at that time of night."

"So...?" Michael said, feeling annoyed.

"There is a way you can get him."

"Okay, how do we get him!?" Michael shook his head, wondering why Wataru had not spoken up sooner at the Highway before all this trouble begun.

"No Michael, not we. YOU." Wataru proclaimed.

"Huh?"

"Shhh!" Wataru hissed, before the lift made a ding sound, the doors opening as a group of people waited outside, wanting to enter the lift. Michael and Wataru quickly left the lift and walked down the corridor to where the Cafeteria is. Wataru lead the way, making his way to a secluded area of the Cafeteria as he sat down. Michael looked as he sat to the left of him.

Michael looked more annoyed than before, "Start explaining yourself."

Wataru looked nervous, "I am sorry Michael, let me explain..."

"I'm listening."

"Michael, in the short time you have been in Japan, have you ever heard of...The Zodiac?" Wataru's voice sharpened.

"No." Michael shook his head, curious.

"Well...in Japan there are many different racing groups we keep a track of. Most are easily able to monitor without too much trouble, however, The Zodiac is...different." Wataru continued, "Many claim they are the most dangerous race team in Japan. Ruthless driving."

"Uh huh."

"Yes...it also believed they are highly Spiritual. They seem to follow a Goddess via. the telepathy of a Fortune Teller."

"Right..."

"Michael, the point is...Black Bird is part of this group."

Michael leaned forward, looking coldly into Wataru's eyes, "So, why hasn't anything been done?"

Wataru begun sweating from his brow, "Michael, please understand. This is a great opportunity for us to finally uncover their group...it is a case of them knowing us, but we do not know much about them, at all!" Wataru continued, "But you Michael, are an outsider. They would not suspect a thing."

Michael listened.

"We only hear from rumors, apparently one of their members was involved in a fatal accident on Wangan. The Magician."

"The Magician?"

"Yeah, they refer to each other in strange names. Code. Black Bird is the sign of Gemini under the title of, well, Black Bird. Same goes for the rest of the members. The Magician was under the sign of Libra. Correct me if I am wrong, but isn't your Birthday in October Michael, under the sign of Libra?"

"Well yes..."

"Yes....this is why it is a very important opportunity for us. They only accept potential new members that fit their requirements...so since a Libra is missing, only Libra signs are eligible."

"I see. What is involved in joining?" Michael asked.

"That, I don't know." Wataru sighed.

"Well, where do they meet? What is the plan?"

"The plan has always been to get someone in our ranks to join their group, then coax them into a run leading into C1. There we will block them off and have the road armed with Tyre Shredders before finally putting them to an end...your wife Michael, unfortunately, is merely a number to the amount of damage they cause. As for where they meet...there is an Arcade."

"An Arcade? Not a nightclub, or...a car park...an Arcade?" Michael pulled a puzzled look.

"Yeah, strange huh?" Wataru chirped, "Michael, you have to understand if you choose to go ahead with his, you will be on your own for quite some time...Jillian will be fine here and it will be up to you to call us when you feel it is safe to do so."

Michael kept silent for a moment, "No. I made my mind up earlier, I want to do this. For Jillian. Especially to nail Black Bird!"

"You will have to go to Akihabara, to the Club Sega building. Go to the counter and ask for "The Tower". Wataru explained before leaving one last remark as he saw Michael get up off his seat, "Good luck."

Michael caught a Taxi from the Hospital to Akihabara. It was around 11.30am now and the streets were crowded with people. Michael had been talking to the Taxi driver who explained Akihabara meant 'The Electric City'. It became apparent how it got it's title - the streets were filled with electronics! From Mobile Phones and Appliances to Video Games it seemed to have everything, though Michael didn't understand much about it. Across the road from the train station was a massive red building with the word Sega on the top storey. Michael figured this was the Arcade as he stepped his way inside. The walls were scattered with many different posters and trinkets before soon coming to a flight of stairs to his left, and another room to his right. Michael entered the room to the right to notice an attendant. Before Michael begun walking he cringed. He had forgotten his Phrase book.

'Shit! What am I going to do now?" Michael thought to himself, as he noticed two of the staff look over to him. Michael smiled sheepishly, before stepping forward. The staff watched him for a moment, finding his behavior unusual.

"Ehm...excuse me? Do either of you understand English at all?"

The two staff looked to each other, one of them bowed his head slightly crossing his two index fingers together in front of Michael, saying "Sorry!" in a blurted tone. The other staff member seemed more calm. Michael looked to the girl, who seemed pleasant enough.

"Sir, welcome to Club Sega! A most excellent entertainment venue for you." The girl chimed. Michael watched her before opening his mouth to speak.

"I...um, am after someone. The Tower?" Michael looked to the girl hopeful.

The girl's expression went blank, looking to her other staff member as they begun talking in Japanese to each other. The man looked at Michael curiously, pursing his lips together. The girl returned herself to Michael, smiling, "Sir. Are you sure about that?"

"Well, yes."

The girl sighed, "Well Sir, please follow me." The girl grinned, politely stepping aside and gesturing Michael to follow her up the flight of stairs back at the entrance. Michael followed up the third level. The room was filled with smoke from cigarettes and noise from the machines as he observed players feverishly compete against each other. The girl stopped, pointing to a Cabinet of Street Fighter 3rd Strike before speaking, "It is very unusual for someone to want to challenge The Tower! She is an excellent player, if not the best in Japan!" The girl proclaimed with excitement. Michael nodded slightly to the girl as she bowed to him in return, before stepping back. There was no one near the girl, who sat alone at the cabinet. She would not of been any older than 21, her slender, pale skin reflecting a blue haze coming from the monitor of the cabinet. She was dressed in casual street wear, yet her posture was tense. Michael approached her slowly, watching her play for a moment. Within that moment the girl turned her head slightly, almost as if to ask Michael what he was waiting for. Onlookers from other games begun glancing at Michael, who stood out like a sore thumb as he sat down beside the girl, pulling out a 100 Yen piece. The girl looked to him with a slight expression of shock as Michael returned back a grin. The onlookers from other machines quickly rushed around the Cabinet where Michael and the girl were as a crowd of ten to fifteen had gathered. Michael calmly put the 100 Yen into the machine as the screen flashed,

'A new challenger has appeared!'

Michael tried to remember the last time he played Street Fighter when he was younger. Most likely Street Fighter 2. A sudden flashback occurred as he remembered how well he use to use Ryu against his other mates at the local Arcade back home. Michael quickly selected Ryu while the girl chose Twelve. The onlookers murmured amongst each other as the girl remained silent, looking to the screen the entire time. The game begun and before Michael could try input for a Hadoken, the girl had drained Michael of nearly all his life already. The onlookers chuckled, some shook their heads. Round one was over in less than 10 seconds. It didn't even looked like the girl had moved her hands much at all. Michael frowned, trying to concentrate as round 2 loaded. Michael pressed back to block, but it was no good - she was far too aggressive, yet the way she played was so calm. Michael sighed, looking to the girl. The onlookers had disappeared by round 3 as Michael stopped playing suddenly,

"Uh...hey, sorry, I was told you were The Tower."

That's because I AM The Tower." She uttered icily, annoyed that he even challenged her.

Michael thought for a moment, pleased that she understood English perfectly, as he sat at the seat silently before speaking up, "To be honest, I was told you were the one to come to for joining your race team."

"That is very forward of you."

"I am only new to the Country you see, back where I am from I was out on the roads....I'm looking for a premium race group." Michael explained.

The girl frowned, "Why us? Why not one of the many other race groups out there?"

"Well, I was told there was a spot open amongst your group and I am of a Libra sign."

"It sounds like you know quite a bit about us. No doubt, our group is no secret, but you don't know what you are asking though..." The girl replied sternly.

Michael seemed to ignore her statement, pressing on, "I'm surprised the spot is still open."

"There are fair reasons for that." The girl smiled.

"So what do I have to do?" Michael insisted.

The girl grinned wickedly, "You have to understand, we don't just allow anyone in, even if you are a Libra - which I don't know to be certain."

The girl got up without saying another word and begun walking away and down the flight of stairs. Michael's eyes followed her the entire time, sighing as she disappeared down the flight of stairs. Michael sat on the chair for a moment by himself acknowledging that was a member of The Zodiac. Michael wondered if she knew he was part of the Police somehow, though he doubted it. Before Michael could raise himself up off the seat, a strong pair of hands clamped him down back onto the seat. Michael jolted his head quickly to find a bold figure behind him. He appeared in his mid-twenties and was of an Athletic build with tanned skin and short black hair.

"I would not follow The Tower if I were you."

"...!? Who are you?" Michael's voice became almost like a whisper.

"It does not matter who I am. All you have to know is...in about three minutes a Businessman in a white Ferrari 355 will park outside the front of the Arcade with the engine running. That, will be your opportunity to take it and find a Zodiac on the Wangan. Look out for the symbol of a Pyramid with an eye on it on the back of their vehicles. If you can surpass them up to Yokohane, then you will become a member"

"Who are you? How do you know this?" Michael asked, before realizing the weight on his shoulders was gone, and with that the voice and man behind it. Michael spun around on the seat, his eyes darting around before trying to sink in what had happened, 'Shit! What do I do??' Michael thought as his mind ran at the thought, realizing a potential opportunity was minutes away. Michael walked quickly down the flight of stairs, reaching to the entrance of the Arcade. No Ferrari around. Michael stepped closer to the sidewalk, turning his head left and right several times before noticing a white vehicle approach on the other side of the road pull over. Yet it wasn't a Ferrari 355, it was still a Ferrari however. A 360 Spyder. Michael had not timed for three minutes, yet he figured it was close enough. Michael inched closer towards the road, watching the Ferrari carefully as the car stopped for a moment at the curb, the engine idling as another man from the street approached the car. The man within the car opened the door and made his way out. He was dressed very casual, mostly in street wear. The owner of the car stepped two meters away from the vehicle while he talked to the other. Without a spare thought, Michael bolted towards the car to fluidly open the door and enter the vehicle. Within a few quick reactions Michael found the handbrake, releasing it quickly to spin the tyres as he nailed the acceleration. Michael did not even look back to see the reaction of the owner, however he did feel a hard thump come from the passenger side door. Michael's hands shook from exhilaration - darting up along the main street of Akihabara, swerving through traffic as he gripped the steering wheel to make a sharp turn, the cars tyres spinning wildly around the corner while Michael tried to control the ferocious power of the Stallion. Michael found himself weaving through traffic for several kilometers looking for any sign someone may have caught up to him, however nothing.

Michael was still shaken from the thrill of the grand theft auto as his eyes trailed to an on-ramp. It appeared to be Yokohane. Shifting the gear down Michael climbed the on-ramp effortlessly, the roar from the V8 engine making it's presence known to cars he passed by. Upon entering the Yokohane line, Michaels attention was drawn to searching each car he passed for the symbol of the Zodiac. Yet nothing. The roads themselves were fairly quiet, and the frustration grew. Though he had to remember that this group was most likely on Wangan than on Yokohane instead, with the goal to surpass a member up to reaching Yokohane. Michael followed the line upon reaching another off-ramp, leading back around onto the Wangan Line. Michael accelerated, finding the power of the Ferrari overwhelming around the corner as he straightened the wheel back up again. No sooner upon entering Wangan a silver Porsche 997 with a symbol of a black pyramid and eye inside cruised past. It took a few seconds in Michael's mind for him to register what he just saw drive past at that very moment as he accelerated forward again. The build up of traffic was heavy, mostly with sedans and a few utility vehicles on the highway. Michael threw the gear back into fourth as the sound of the wastegate released into the atmosphere, pushing Michael back into his seat as he weaved through the traffic catching up to the silver 997. The 997 was about fifty meters now, as Michael begun to feel something as he tried to catch up - he wasn't sure what brought on the feeling, but he couldn't help it.

The 997 was pulling away.

Michael shook his head, thinking of Jillian as he shifted into fifth gear, launching the car forward further up to around 170km/h, though noticing the silver 997 continue to pull away slowly. Michael's eyes darted to his left, looking to the parking strip along the highway. Michael jerked the steering wheel, cutting across sedans as he begun driving on the parking strip area, accelerating to around 250km/h within mere seconds, the Ferrari itself inches away from the guard railing. Michael's mind almost seemed possessed, determined to best this other car that he felt had caught onto the idea of being followed. Michael was around thirty meters away from the 997 now as a tunnel approached. Michael pushed forward, driving with his hands gripped tightly to the wheel, reaching to around 290km/h as he gambled with the small space of the side strip. Upon reaching the tunnel Michael was at around 300km/h and zapped into the tunnel, hugging against the left side of the wall. Looking back into the side mirror, Michael had noticed the 997 had become stuck behind traffic. Michael grinned victoriously, slowing down upon the on-ramp to Yokohane again, before looking back into the mirror again. There was no sign of the 997 anymore. Michael looked forward to suddenly become alert by a strange occurance.

Four high performance vehicles raced up from behind and enclosed Michael on the left side of the road, almost as if they were in formation, they drove formed in a diagonal line across the road, forcing Michael to slow down as they braked upon entering Yokohane line again. Michael got a better look at the vehicles again. Two purple R35 GT-R's, a pearl white R32 GT-R and the silver 997 from before came to a stop as Michael had no choice but to cease also. Michael felt nervous, looking to the vehicles, though only the driver from one of the purple R35's came out. It was the man from the arcade who instructed him to even begin this crazy initiation. Michael looked a bit surprised as the man instructed him to wind down his mirror.

"Well, this is a surprise for both of us. Here I am, not expecting you to actually go through with it...and you, not expecting to be pulled over like this?" The man laughed to himself before continuing, "I told you though, to wait for a 355. Yet by pure co-incidence this 360 came around. You still took it anyway. Why?"

Michael's eyes widened for a moment, before calming, "Whatever it took. 355 or not."

The man laughed, "Well, The Tower says you took a very dangerous line to beat her. Even so early as before the on-ramp. Very unusual!"

"What? The Tower? I raced her!?" Michael was taken aback a bit from the thought.

"hehe, she is not very happy about losing so badly...but nevertheless, Libra...welcome. A bit better at driving then video games hmm" The man lowered his head to the window, "We meet at a nightclub every night at 11pm called Fire and Ice. There you will meet everyone. Please return this car to Akihabara where you collected it."

With that, Michael was handed a small white note from the man,

Fire and Ice

Libra -

There appeared to be a blank space after Libra. Michael raised his head up to find the cars were gone, like as if they had never come and been. No sound or presence known except for that moment Michael had.

He was then alone.



Continued below

This post has been edited by BlackBird on Sep 14 2010, 05:06 AM

The Holden Commodore... a fine choice for an Australian. It's a very good car, IMO. Much like the Pontiac GTO but better and more agile!! Sweet!!

How do you find the story so far?

welcome to the writers' line... hope you enjoy your stay.

I think this story is indeed nice. It's the same face of illegal street racing culture, with different point of view. Great job

real interesting...
this definitely looks promising, and maybe it'll pwn Tokyo Drift

can't wait to see Mike enter Tokyo

very promising, so far so good

I apologise for the long delay! I have been very busy with work. Will continue soon.

I was amused by this read. Nice details were used, and nothing seemed too flashy or glaring, or ridiculous themes for me to go "Wait, what?". I say, it's one of the better prose I've read. No wonder there's a reason why I decided to overhaul mine.

Updated. Chapter 1 complete.

This post has been edited by BlackBird on Oct 22 2009, 04:33 AM

how long does it take?????

Interesting story. Nice to see a change of POV...

I am very busy during the day/night so I do apologise for the delay but I am trying to get bits and pieces done when I can.

Updated!


[ Post merged on Oct 22 2009, 02:31 AM ]
Chapter 2 complete.

Updated.

Chapter 3 about a quarter done? Probably less, this is going to be a long chapter.

Going through severe writers block atm. Sorry to those reading.

This post has been edited by BlackBird on Oct 30 2009, 02:52 AM

I read up to the end of chapter 2 as I am quite tired.

f**k, cliffhanger sent a chill down my back. Keep up the good work mate.

Thanks man.

Chapter 3 complete!

So...Chapter 4 is the last chapter until the closing out, which raises the question...

Would people be interested enough in reading a sequel?

There is a lot of room for one, yet I can easily close it off in one chapter.

What do you think? Is it worth it so far?

such a good read

CHAPTER 4: BLACK COBRA

Michael returned to Akihabara with the Ferrari, pulling up outside of the arcade to leave the vehicle where he had left it, as instructed. He turned off the ignition, with it coming the thoughts of Jillian again. He shook his head at his recklessness, gripping for the steering wheel at his foolishness, tilting his head down with a sense of shame before he heard a tapping on his driver's side window. Michael raised his head up slowly, turning it as he saw the girl from before - The Tower. Michael's eyes widened slowly, though he was replied with a smile from her, grinning as she opened the door for him. Michael let go of the steering wheel, looking to her as he stepped out, standing beside her.

"What is it you really want from us?" She asked, looking to him for an answer.

"Black Bird." Michael replied, his eyes fixed to hers.

"What did he do?"

"My wife Jillian, she is in hospital because of him. He drove too fast around a corner..." Michael explained trailing off, though was careful not to mention his involvement with the Police Department.

"I find that a case of very bad luck." She responded coldly.

Michael didn't say a word back, looking to her as they remained silent for a period of time, before Michael spoke again, "I will be there tonight, at your club you all go to. It is there I will find this Black Bird..."

The girl laughed, cutting him off as Michael looked to her with surprise, "Listen to you! Black Bird is the fastest out. Both on foot and behind the wheel..."

Michael returned the cut off of conversation in reply, "...then tell me what I need to do."

"What? For you? Why should I?" She hissed, stepping back slightly.

Michael remained silent for a moment again, glancing to the Ferrari before back to her, "Do you ever have much trouble with the Police on the roads?"

She was taken aback slightly by his random question, "Well...yes, of course."

"What if I told you I could make it so you wouldn't have trouble with Police on certain days?" Michael smirked.

The Tower narrowed her eyes, "Prove it."

"Only if you help me. Tell me when Black Bird goes on the roads...I want to catch him."

"He is on the roads every night, he is always late to the club. He would be out on Wangan no doubt in an hour or so." She trailed off, looking to him, "So what do you need help with? Can you really do that with the Police? How?" She asked suspiciously.

"I need a car capable of beating his." He told her, ignoring her other questions.

She thought for a moment, putting her hand under her chin as she strummed her fingers, "Normally, I would not do this...but you have made a good deal with the Police thing, how can you prove it?"

"Tonight, there will be no Highway Patrol. I know this. I will go on the highway looking for him. I need your help though..." He admitted to her, determination and desperation in his eyes.

The Tower sighed, "I don't really like Black Bird that much to be honest." She jerked her head slightly, motioning him to follow her back into the arcade. Within the arcade was a locked door to the far right of the bottom floor. The Tower pulled a small, red key from her pocket, opening the door as it lead to a flight of stairs. Michael followed her, the flight of stairs walls covered in many different video game and music posters. The stairs had lead to a small carpark, filled with different, ordinary cars. Michael looked around confused, wondering what car she was talking about.

"Over here." She motioned, leading him around a corner as she bumped into him slightly.

Michael felt a sudden surge of electricity flow through his body upon looking at the vehicle, the hairs on his arms standing on their ends as he looked forward to what was before him. A mixture of intimidation and excitement came over him as he looked for The Tower, noticing she had disappeared. Michael turned around, placing his hands to the pockets of his pants where he felt something that wasn't there before.

Michael reached into his left pocket, pulling out a small, black key. He stared at it for awhile, looking back to the car, clasping the key with his hand as he begun walking towards the vehicle.

* * * * *

Maiko let out a sudden squeal of terror within her apartment.

* * * * *

It was a hot, dry day out along the Wangan. Black Bird was heading towards Narita, maintaining a consistent speed of approximately 310km/h as he drove. The build up of traffic wasn't a lot - the occasional sedan and small truck being passed by the blazing Porsche. He cut through the traffic gaps like a hot knife blade against butter as he transferred from the far left lane to the right, sighing to himself as he looked ahead, before suddenly changing to the middle lane to avoid the rear end of some sedans, slowing him down to around 270 km/h. Black Bird passed an on-ramp to his left, his eyes suddenly widened in horror - a Black 1966 Shelby Cobra with a hard-top came screaming down the ramp, power sliding through traffic as it threw itself into the far right lane. Black Bird put his foot down, throwing the gear back into fourth as he abused the engine to red line, throttling it forward to 300km/h. The Shelby Cobra replied with the speed easily as they begun to enter a tunnel together.

Black Bird's mind raced with who could be possibly be driving such a car, with it being his previous car - understanding it's potential to outrun him. The Shelby Cobra caught up to the back right corner of the Black Bird easily, both able to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Black Bird had been so immersed in trying to spot the person in the other car, behind the heavily tinted windows, that he had not changed from fourth to fifth, the pain coming from the engine too much for it as he shook his head in realization, though it had become too late - the Cobra had struck without warning, jerking the car enough so it clipped the back of the Black Bird, sending it spinning out of control out of the tunnel with a brilliant trail of rubber smoke following before smashing the front of the car against the corner of a wall on the side of the road, the car bouncing off back into the middle of the road. All the cars from behind had stopped immediately upon noticing the crash, a build up of traffic suddenly created.

The Black Cobra pulled up twenty meters ahead, ceasing the engine as the man stepped out. The sun above setting a long shadow as the man begun walking forward towards the broken Black Bird - oil leaking rapidly from the car onto the ground with the front and side windows broken, blood splats against the glass as the man's shadow covered Black Bird's heavily injured body. Through the blinding light and the driver's side door being opened, Black Bird struggled to open his eyes, looking forward to an image he had not imagined he would ever have to face. He tried to turn his body around in defense to face away from him - the Black Cobra. Libra.

Michael.

THE SILENCE OF SAND.

A Summer's morning.

Jillian rested in the Hospital bed, her head turning to her pale curtain as it moved to the side. A great smile of relief had come across her face to see Michael again after another long night.

"You finally woke up again." Michael smiled.

"The doctors say I should be able to leave here tomorrow...hmm, I heard Police caught that man that ran me over, apparently he had crashed on the highway." Jillian looked down to her sheets, returning the smile back as she looked back up to Michael, before continuing, her face turning dire, "...though now they seem to have a new problem, apparently there is a Black Shelby Cobra that has taken his place and causing trouble...are you going to go after him too?" Jillian asked, looking to him with concern.

Michael remained silent, leaning down to Jillian to kiss her on the forehead.

This post has been edited by BlackBird on Sep 14 2010, 04:58 AM

Updated!

Chapter 4 complete!

One segment to go!


[ Post merged on Dec 17 2009, 03:59 AM ]
Updated.

Finished!

(The End?)

Sequel is a must. Or rapers shall be hired.

I'm now addicted and I have nothing to read,I hate you !

Thanks guys.

I'll come up with a sequel then sometime.

I have good experience of fan fiction and it was works amazing and different review then others.
silence of sand was also given the best message and performance in the game and forehead kiss was memorable Sean in that.