Second Skin Shining Beast Girl Panic! By Ewen "Blackbird" Cluney Foreword "Second Skin" is in some ways a pretty unusual story for me. It is, after all, a lime. I wrote it over the course of AnimeExpo 2000 and the 6+ hour car rides to and from Anaheim that going to the con entailed. The story's very suggestive, but it's definitely not a lemon, so if you're turned off by stuff like that or are looking for a hentai story, you're in the wrong place. Second Skin is really a story about some girls having fun, and it even has actual character development and plot, not to mention a few touching moments (even if it's a gratuitous lime, I still have certain standards of quality). I really agonized about whether or not to post this story, but I've come to the conclusion that when all's said and done is anyone has a problem with the story, then the problem is theirs and needn't concern me. Anyway, I hope you enjoy this. ------------------------------------------------------------------- Episode 1: The Fateful Purchase [Open on Mihoto resting her head against her desk in class, tapping her fingers against the desk softly. Mihoto is a shapely 17-year-old with shoulder-length hair. Saki walks up beside her desk and bends down to look into her eyes. Saki is the same age, but has short, unkempt hair.] Saki: Only three more hours to go, Mihoto. Mihoto: Ohhh... I'm soooo bored! Saki: Well, I know something we can do after school... Mihoto: What? Saki: [quietly] Wanna' go to Pretty Lover Doll this afternoon? Mihoto: What's that? [Saki whispers into Mihoto's ear. Mihoto blushes.] Mihoto: What?! [The other students turn and look at them. She scratches the back of her head nervously.] Saki: C'mon; it can't hurt to just look, right? Mihoto: I dunno... What if someone sees us? Saki: You worry too much. Mihoto: [pressing the tips of her fingers together] Well... um... Saki: Tell you what; if you come with me I'll give you a copy of my Seven Gold Boys bootleg. Mihoto: R-really? Saki: Sure. _If_ you come along. Mihoto: [blushes] Um.... Oh... Okay.. Saki: Alright! Meet me at my house after school; be sure to change out of your uniform. [Cut to Mihoto in class, half paying attention to the teacher.] Teacher: So the fractional part of a given exponent is effectively the same root-power of... Mihoto Voice Over: I can't believe I actually agreed to go with Saki to that... place. I hope it's not too strange... [Dissolve to an imaginary sequence; Saki and Mihoto walk into a dark room.] Saki: Hey, is anyone here? Mihoto: Maybe we should go? [Saki steps inside and Mihoto reluctantly follows. The door slams shut and the lights go on to reveal a dominatrix attended by a coterie of bondage freaks wearing small amounts of leather and lots of piercings and spikes and not much else.] Dominatrix: OHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHO! I see we've found some new playthings! Mihoto: Huh? We just wanted to look at-- Dominatrix: [cracks whip within inches of Mihoto's nose] OHOHOHOHOHOHO! You'll make a nice addition to my collection! Now remove your clothes! OHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHO! [Dissolve to Mihoto sitting in class, looking pale and afraid.] Mihoto Voice Over: Nah. They wouldn't do that... Right? Ohhhh... Teacher: Mihoto? Do you know the answer? Mihoto: [looking at the board, frantic] Umm... Uh... Well... [The teacher frown. Cut to Mihoto standing out in the hall with two buckets of water.] Mihoto: I can't believe this. What else could go wrong? [Cut to another imaginary sequence. Mihoto and Saki walk into a relatively normal-looking store, and look around.] Saki: See? This isn't so bad. [Out of nowhere a scruffy middle-aged man comes up on Mihoto from behind and grabs her breasts. She lets out an ear-piercing scream. Cut to Mihoto standing in the hallway, frowning/afraid.] Mihoto: What have I gotten myself into?! Maybe I should just skip it... But I *really* want that bootleg... Ohhhh... [she hangs her head] [Cut to Mihoto dressed in shorts and a baby-doll T-shirt, stepping out of her house. She has a tiny stuffed toy bunny clipped to her belt loop, and hangs her head.] Mihoto: I can't believe I'm going through with this. Mihoto's Mother: [from inside] Mihoto, where are you going? Mihoto: Um... Over to Saki's house! I'll be back in time for dinner! Mihoto Voice Over: I hope... [Cut to Mihoto and Saki (wearing a tank top and jeans) walking down the street.] Saki: Hey, why are you so nervous? Mihoto: Well... you know... Saki: I told you not to worry! It'll be fine. Mihoto: But... I mean, aren't there... strange people there? Saki: Well... From what I've heard it's mostly just gay guys. Mihoto: R-really? Saki: Yep. Not the least bit interested in girls like us. [she slows down a little and looks at Mihoto's rear] Besides, don't you want to... experiment a little? Mihoto: Er... Saki: Oh, here it is! [They turn and look at the store; it says "Pretty Lover Doll" in English on a small sign, and "Adult Novelties * Fine Leather Goods" below that. The front windows are covered with mini- blinds. Saki opens the door and steps in, holding it for Mihoto, who hesitates.] Saki: Oh, come on in already! Mihoto: [steps inside] [Mihoto slowly opens her eyes to see a relatively normal-looking store with videos, manga, "toys," and leather goods. Two normal- looking guys (except that one is a transvestite) are standing behind the counter. She quickly glances around; the only other customers are a pair of teenaged boys. She double-takes and looks at them again.] Mihoto: [to Saki, quietly] Hey, i-isn't that...? Saki: Tanaka-sempai? Tanaka: Huh? Saki? Mihoto? I... didn't expect to see you here... [Mihoto is blushing furiously and trying to hide behind Saki.] Tanaka: [rolls eyes] Tell you what; you don't mention that we're here and we won't mention that you're here. Okay? Saki: No prob, sempai. Hiro (Tanaka's boyfriend): We should be going Yusuke-chan. [Hiro and Tanaka walk out, holding hands.] Mihoto: I... didn't know Tanaka-sempai was that way... Saki: You couldn't tell? He's a good-looking senior and he hasn't gone near a single girl the entire time he's been at school. Clerk #1: Say, do you need help with anything? Saki: Hm? Oh, we were just looking around. Clerk #1: Okay. If you need anything please ask. [Saki and Mihoto start looking around the store.] Mihoto: I didn't expect the clerk to be so nice... Saki: Just because they sell... unusual merchandise doesn't mean they can get away with treating their customers badly. If anything I bet they have to be extra nice because a lot of people are afraid. [picks up a box] Hmm... Mihoto: What _is_ that thing? It looks like a... a... Saki: You've never seen one of these before? Mihoto: [blushes] N-no! Saki: "A girl's best friend." Mihoto: Saki... Saki: [puts it down] What? It's no big deal you know. Mihoto: This is a new side of you... Saki: Hey, I always said we should be more adventurous. Mihoto: Y-yeah, but... Saki: Relax already! No one will know, so you can just look around and have fun. [Mihoto sighs and picks up a manga magazine. She blanches at the first few pages, but keeps reading.] Mihoto: Hey, this is actually pretty funny! Saki: See, what'd I tell you? [Mihoto puts it down and starts looking at the leather, vinyl, PVC, and rubber clothing.] Saki: See anything you like? [Mihoto pulls a pink bunny-suit made of PVC, with inflatable ears, hands, and feet off the rack. Saki sort of spontaneously appears next to Mihoto, grinning.] Saki: What's _that_? Clerk #2: That? It's a PVC bunny suit; tight and shiny. We have a few other versions too. [Saki's eyes light up as she pulls out a purple cat version.] Clerk #1: You can try them on if you like. [Mihoto blushes furiously.] Saki: Oh, come on, it'll be fun! Mihoto: Ohh... [looks at the suit she's holding] Alright. [Cut to Mihoto walking into a dressing room. She shuts the door behind her and takes off her shirt and shorts.] Saki: [heard from the dressing room next to Mihoto's] The tag says undergarments should be removed before you put it on. [Mihoto blushes, but takes off her bra and panties before slipping into the suit. She zips it up in front and pauses to look at the hands and ears, which need to be inflated.] Saki: Are you ready? Mihoto: Y-yes... Saki: Well, let's come on out together. [They step out at the same time; Saki is grinning like a madwoman as she eyes Mihoto.] Clerk #1: [holding a small air pump] Let's inflate the ears and paws so you get the full effect. Saki: Oh yes, please. [Clerk #2 rolls his eyes and gets out another pump and inflates the hands, feet and ears of Mihoto's suit, while #1 does the same for Saki. The two clerks step back and admire their handiwork.] Clerk #1: It's moments like this that make this job worthwhile. Clerk #2: Oh, I forgot. You're the one who likes girls. [Mihoto looks at herself in a mirror and tries posing. Saki is raptly watching her every movement.] Saki: Y'know, I never realized your chest was so big... Mihoto: [blushes] Saki! Saki: Well, it's true... Clerk #1: If you don't mind my saying, you two look _great_. Mihoto: Yeah... Too bad there isn't anywhere we could wear these. Saki: What're you talking about? These would be _awesome_ to wear to a dance club! Clerk #2: You'd certainly be the center of attention. Saki: How much are these anyway? Clerk #2: 8,000 yen apiece. Saki: Wow! I was expecting it to be a lot more. Clerk #1: [shrugs] It's made of PVC, plus it's been marked down for clearance. Saki: We'll take them. Mihoto: Wh-what?! Saki: Don't tell me you wouldn't have fun with this, Mihoto. Mihoto: ... Um... You have a point... But I don't have enough money. Saki: I'll cover you; you can pay me back later. Mihoto: Oh, alright. [Cut to the two of them walking down the street, each holding a brown paper bag.] Saki: See? What'd I tell you? And we found these _awesome_ outfits too! Mihoto: ...Yeah. Saki: So, you wanna' go out tomorrow night? Mihoto: T-tomorrow? Saki: Sure! It'll be fun! Mihoto: Do we have to wear those? Saki: What's the point otherwise? Mihoto: Oh, alright. [Cut to Mihoto's room at night; the curtains are drawn and the door is locked, and she is just zipping up the bunny-suit. She looks at herself in the mirror and smiles.] Mihoto: I have to admit, I _do_ look good in this. [She tries to unzip the suit and fumbles with it because of the oversized "paws" on her hands.] Mihoto: Ahhhhh! I have to get out of this thing! [She fumbles more and more, her hands slipping. She bigsweats, stops short, and uses both hands to grasp the zipper's oversized ring and pulls it down, and heaves a sigh of relief. Cut to Saki laying on her bed, in the kitty-suit. She looks up at the ceiling and grins, then reaches over and picks up a plush mouse and looks at it.] Saki: [grins] That's what I need; my own mousie to play with. And I think I know just the one... [Fade out.] ------------------------------------------------------------------- Episode 2: Shining Dance Mania [Open on Saki and Mihoto walking to school together.] Saki: Are you ready for tonight? Mihoto: Um... Yeah! Saki: Your attitude's certainly improved. Mihoto: [shrugs] I dunno; I decided to just have fun with it. Saki: Good... Speaking of which... Mihoto: Hm? Saki: I was thinking we could find someone else to join us. Mihoto: Someone else? Why? Saki: Look at it this way; if you did it yourself everyone'd just thing you're some freak. If we do it together, they'll think we're two weirdoes and maybe lesbians or something, but if _three_ of us do it it'll look like a new trend. And who knows; it might end up being one! Mihoto: I guess, but who would be willing to do that? Saki: Oh, I have someone in mind. [Cut to Saki walking up behind Harumi in class. Harumi is a bespectacled girl who dresses conservatively and is studying diligently.] Saki: 'Morning, Harumi! Harumi: ... Saki: You can at least say "good morning" back to me. Harumi: Good morning Saki. I'm sorry, but I'm trying to study right now. Saki: Oh, okay. But I was just wondering; Mihoto and I were planning to go to a dance club tonight and I thought you might like to come. Harumi: [incredulous] I couldn't possibly, and I'm surprised you aren't going to be studying for the exam tomorrow yourself. Saki: Are you sure? Harumi: Yes. Saki: Oh really? [Saki whispers into Harumi's ear; Harumi turns bright red.] Harumi: [panicked whisper] H-how did you find out about that? Saki: [mysterious smile] I have my sources. Harumi: Y-you wouldn't tell anyone, would you? Saki: Well, that all depends... Harumi: B-but... It seems you leave me no choice. Saki: [resting a hand on her shoulder] Relax; the point is to have fun. [Cut to Mihoto, Saki, and Harumi walking down the street. They're dressed casually except for Harumi, who's wearing her school uniform.] Saki: Of course, you'll need a good outfit for the club Harumi: Should I get something from home? Saki: You'll need to do better than that, and I know just the thing. Harumi: What would that be? Saki: It wouldn't be any good if I gave it away. [They stop outside Pretty Lover Doll. Harumi wild-takes.] Harumi: S-saki! Do you know what sort of place this is?! Saki: Do you? Mihoto: Relax; there's nothing to be afraid of. Saki: Yeah; come on. [They walk into the store.] Clerk #1: Back again, huh? And you brought a friend along... Saki: You still have more of those suits? Clerk #1: Yep. Harumi: What...? Saki: [grins and pulls a light blue mouse suit off of the rack] Here; try it on. Harumi: Th-- That?! Saki: Sure; me and Mihoto have ours already. Harumi: You can't be serious! Saki: Of course I am. I'll help you. Harumi: Huh? [Saki pulls Harumi into a dressing room. Mihoto bigsweats.] Clerk #1: Your new friend seems kinda'... shy. Mihoto: I guess. [Cut to inside the dressing room.] Saki: Okay, now take your clothes off. Harumi: Whaaat?! Saki: You have to; there's no way you can get it on otherwise. Harumi: But... I don't know... Saki: [shrugs] Fine then. [Harumi yelps as Saki pulls down her skirt.] Harumi: S-saki! Saki: Then do it yourself. Harumi: B-but-- Saki: Okay. Have it your way. [Saki proceeds to undo the tie in front of Harumi's top, and yanks it off. Herumi turns even brighter red and puts her arms over her chest.] Harumi: Saki! Saki: Well then, do it yourself. Harumi: Saki: On the other hand it _is_ more fun this way. [Saki pulls down Harumi's panties. Harumi turns a very bright shade of red.] Harumi: Alright! I'll do this myself! [Cut to Mihoto and Clerk #1 watching as Saki steps out of the dressing room.] Mihoto: Don't you think you're being a little mean, Saki? Saki: Huh? Oh... I suppose I should apologize to her. Clerk #1: You have to be careful not to scare people off; we have to be careful or people run away screaming. Sometimes literally. Saki: I guess I never was one for subtlety. [Harumi reluctantly steps out of the dressing room, holding up her hands below her chin and blushing furiously. Saki grabs the air pump out of Clerk #1's hands.] Harumi: Um... [Saki proceeds to inflate the ears, hands, feet, and finally the tail. She then steps back to admire her handiwork.] Saki: See? What'd I tell you; you look great! [Harumi turns around to look at the mirror. Saki pulls Harumi's hands down so her chest is visible.] Saki: Not as big as Mihoto, but not bad. Clerk #1: So... what were you three planning to do with these outfits? Mihoto: [smiles] We're going out dancing tonight. Clerk #1: Oh really? What club? Saki: Haven't decided yet; either Psychedelic Cochroach or the Rubber Room. Clerk #1: Cool. So... shall I ring you up? Saki: By all means. [Cut to the three girls in their usual clothes walking down the street. Harumi is frowning.] Harumi: I'm really beginning to wonder how I let myself be dragged into this... Saki: This'll be fun; otherwise there's no point. [Cut to the three of them walking into a typical dance club; the air is filled with pounding techno music and disco lighting. A moderate-sized crowd variously mills around and dances.] Saki: C'mon, let's go change! [Cut to Mihoto in her bunny-suit standing in the bathroom as Saki steps out of a stall in her kitty-suit.] Saki: Ready? Mihoto: Yeah! Saki: Harumi? Ready? [There is a long pause. Finally, Harumi comes out, fumbling with the zipper. Saki grabs the zipper, yanks it up, and pulls off Harumi's glasses.] Harumi: Hey! Saki: Sorry, but they clash with the look. Can you see decently without these? Harumi: ... Kind of... Saki: Okay. Just put them in your bag, and lets get to partying! [Cut to the three of them posing on the edge of the dance floor; Mihoto is in the middle, with Harumi and Saki on either side.] Mihoto: Let's do it! [Mihoto steps down onto the dance floor, followed by Saki, who pulls Harumi along. Nearly everyone suddenly looks towards them.] Saki: Party time! [Mihoto and Saki jump into dancing and Harumi follows reluctantly. In short order a space is cleared around them and the entire club is cheering them on. As the evening wears on they go through a variety of dances and dance with several different guys; the club gets more and more full, and Harumi gradually loosens up and gets into the fun. Cut to the three of them in the bathroom. Mihoto unzips hers partway with the trick she used before, which the other two try to imitate; Saki succeeds, but Harumi's zipper won't budge. She tries again and again, growing more and more panicked.] Harumi: I--it won't unzip! Saki: [examining it closely] Whoops. Looks like the zipper's stuck. Mihoto: Uh oh... Harumi: Well do something! Cut it off if you have to? Saki: ... That wouldn't be safe; these are pretty much skintight so we couldn't cut it without cutting you too... [her eyes dart around the room] ... Besides, I've heard that this kind of PVC is tougher than kevlar; I don't think we _could_ cut it. Harumi: I _have_ to get this thing off! I have a test tomorrow! [Saki deflates her hands and tries to get the zipper down, but can't.] Mihoto: What're we gonna' do? Harumi: I don't know! But you'd better figure _something_ out! Can you imagine what would happen? [Cut to an imaginary sequence; Harumi walks into class with her sailor fuku over the mouse suit. Everyone's eyes pop out and their jaws drop.] Teacher: [walking up to her] Harumi, I think I'll have to... uh... [he starts to get a nosebleed, and wipes off the blood] ... see you in my office. [Cut to Harumi backed up against the wall by another teacher.] Teacher: If you wanted to get my attention, you could've found a more subtle way. But this will do nicely... [He reaches out to grope her. Cut back to reality; Harumi is growing more panicked, Mihoto looks worried, and Saki seems to be daydreaming.] Harumi: Saki! [Saki blinks and comes to her senses, then sighs and calmly deflates the ears, tail, hands, and feet of Harumi's outfit.] Saki: Go home, sneak into your room, and think about it rationally; I'm sure you're smart enough to figure out what to do. Harumi: [barely contained fear/anger/tears] Saki... Please... [Cut to the three of them walking outside the club; Harumi is wearing Saki's jeans over the mouse-suit and Saki is wearing Harumi's uniform skirt. A young man runs up behind them.] Ryunosuke: Hey! Can I talk to you for a moment? Saki: [turning around] We're kinda' in a hurry. Ryunosuke: Will you at least hear me out? Saki: [sideways glance at Harumi] Make it very quick. Ryunosuke: Fine. The comics store I work at is looking for mascots and I think you three would be absolutely perfect; the boss'd pay you to make appearances and hand out flyers and stuff now and then. Mihoto: We'll definitely _consider_ it. Ryunosuke: [bows] Here, take our card in case you're interested. [he hands a bussiness card to Saki, then leaves] Harumi: Regular appearances? I want to be rid of this thing forever! Saki: [wicked grin] Are you sure you want everyone to know about- - Harumi: STOP IT! [They stop short, taken aback.] Harumi: Saki, I'm not your plaything! Stop treating me like some kind of ... _toy_! Saki: [quiet, looking at the ground] I... Harumi: *What*? Mihoto: Saki, she has a point. Maybe you shouldn't be so rough with her... Saki: [makes eye contact] ... You're right. I'm sorry. I went too far. Harumi: That's putting it mildly! Saki: I really didn't mean for it to be this way; I just wanted you to have fun with us. [Harumi scowls and shakes her head.] Saki: I'm really sorry about this. Can you give me a second chance? Harumi: You've got to be joking. Saki: Look, we had some problems, I made some mistakes. Tell you what; if I can get you out of the suit by tonight, will you give it just one more try? [Harumi glances at Mihoto.] Mihoto: [shrugs] I... I'd like you to come with us; you seemed to be having a lot of fun earlier tonight. But you have to decide. Harumi: [reluctantly] All right. _One_ more chance. _If_ you can get me out of this suit. Okay? Saki: [nods, smiles] Okay. Let's go. [Fade out.] ------------------------------------------------------------------- Episode 3: Comic Mascot Panic! [Open on the three girls in casual clothes, walking down a street, each wearing a backpack.] Mihoto: [to Harumi] I'm glad you came along. Harumi: I'm glad I got out of that thing, even if I didn't get much sleep. Mihoto: How did you finally fix it? Harumi: Liquid graphite. Saki: I think I've apologized enough times, but I'm still sorry about that mess. I just hope you had a good time. Harumi: Well... that was why I agreed, actually. We were the center of attention -- I don't usually like that -- and everyone was cheering for us. And before the zipper got stuck I felt so... Mihoto: Free? Harumi: That's it. Mihoto: It felt like I just put on a new me and became the bunny- suit girl, and all my troubles go on vacation. [The stop in front of a comics store, then walk in. Ryunosuke is behind the counter, standing there looking bored, when he sees them come in.] Ryunosuke: [calling into the back] Hey boss! The girls I told you about! They're here! Saki: Hiya. Ryunosuke: Good to see you! When I told the boss about you guys he flipped! Chances are if you want the job it's yours Saki: Well... I think we'd want to try it out first. [Mr. Shimura steps up behind the counter and looks at the girls appraisingly.] Shimura: So, you're the ones he told me about. Why don't we see these outfits of yours? Mihoto: Is there somewhere we can change? Shimura: I won't stop you. Ryunosuke: [rolls eyes] I _think_ they mean in private; c'mon, you can use the bathroom. [Cut to each of the girls zipping up her suit in turn. Mihoto smiles, Saki grins, Harumi takes a deep breath and nods to herself. Cut to the three of them standing in a line before Mr. Shimura. He paces back and forth in front of them.] Shimura: Hmm... [He walks around the other side, bends down to look at their rear ends, and nods to himself, then gets a camera and starts taking pictures of them. Mihoto immediately starts posing, and Saki falls in in short order. Harumi does so more reluctantly. Mr. Shimura finishes up the roll of film and takes it out of the camera.] Mihoto: That was fun, but what was it for? Shimura: Flyers and such, and I'll get a doujinshi artist to do up caricatures of you three. I take it you want the job? [The three of them exchange glances and nod in unison.] Shimura: Great! Can you start today? Saki: Sure thing! Harumi: Though we need to finish at a reasonable hour. Ryunosuke: We close at nine; is that okay? Mihoto: Sure. Saki: So what do we do first? Shimura: [hands them a tall stack of flyers] Go outside and hand these out to whoever walks by. We'll get you more when you run out. Mihoto: [handing a portion of the flyers to Saki and Mihoto] Right! Let's go! [Cut to the three of them standing on a street corner outside the shop. _Everyone_ in the area is staring at them. A couple of guys run into telephone poles/walls/cars because of being distracted.] Harumi: Well... we've certainly got their attention... Mihoto: So let's use it! Saki: Right! [Saki holds up a flier and starts yelling.] Saki: Come to Comic World! The greatest manga store in Tokyo! Be sure to come during the big sale this weekend! [Mihoto smiles at Harumi and nods, and they commence handing flyers to people. Before long a huge crowd has gathered, and every now and then a camera goes off. Cut to Ryunosuke forcing his way through the crowd to give them a foot-high stack of flyers.] Saki: How're we doing?! Ryunosuke: Great! Our sales are more than triple normal! Mihoto: All right! Ryunosuke: Gotta' go! Keep it up! [An NHK news van pulls up and a reporter and cameraman hop out and rush to check out the scene. Cut to a view through the camera.] Reporter: I'm here live, where a strange disturbance has the entire neighborhood excited; [The camera starts pointing towards the girls, and the reporter has to move and stand on his toes to stay in the shot.] Reporter: Apparently the local comics store has devised a rather _unusual_ promotion; we'll see if we can get close enough to talk to these new "mascots." [The reporter pushes through the crowd and approaches the trio.] Reporter: Excuse me! Mihoto: Huh? WOW! Are we on TV? Harumi: NHK news? Reporter: That's right! Can you tell us what's going on? Saki: [holds up a flyer to the camera] Comic World is having a big sale this weekend! Be sure to come and see us! Reporter: Uh... Yes. So, how did you come up with these costumes? [The reporter notices the camera is focusing on Mihoto's chest and the re-aims it.] Saki: That's a secret! But if you come on down tomorrow maybe I can tell you all about it! Reporter: Ah, yes... Back to you in the studio. [Cut to Mihoto's mother watching TV.] Mihoto's Mother: Mihoto-chan?! N-no... it coudln't be... [Cut to outside Comic World. The girls are still at it, and the cameraman is watching them with the camera pointed in their direction.] Harumi: I'm kind of tired... Mihoto: Me too, but we only have a couple more hours. Could today get any stranger? [Suddenly "sexy" intro music starts playing, and the crowd parts to reveal a trio of newcomers, all women in their 20s. Foxy, the leader, wears a fire-engine-red PVC fox suit; it's similar to the ones worn by our heroines, but with normal human hands, solid plastic ears, and spiked heels in the feet. In similar garb are Hare, in a black rabbit suit with playboy-bunny-style cufflinks and bowtie/collar, and Black Widow in a spider suit (no head covering, but 4 plastic limbs in her sides and red hourglass shape below her navel). Foxy gives her head an arrogant toss.] Foxy: What an adorable trio of _copycats_! [The girls look on in shock for a moment. The cameraman jumps up, camera ready, and heads for where the confrontation is happening. Saki is the first to compose herself.] Saki: Who're you calling copycats? I don't know about you, but we did this all on our own. Who the hell are you anyway? [The three newcomers strike an obviously rehearsed pose.] Foxy: We are the Sleek Sexy Bombers! Foxy! Hare: Hare! Black Widow: And the Black Widow! Foxy: What about you, little girls? Saki: Kitty Violet! Mihoto: ... Bunny Pink! Harumi: And... Mousie Azure! Ryunosuke: [standing by the door to Comic World] They're the... Shining Beast Girls! Don't mess with them! [The Sleek Sexy Bombers exchange glances.] Foxy: Pathetic. Mihoto: Huh? Hare: You don't deserve to wear those paltry imitations of our costumes. Harumi: What?! Black Widow: And we can't allow that. Saki: Hold on just a minute! [Foxy walks up to Saki and stomps on her inflatable foot with a spiked heel, putting a hole in it and making it deflate.] Saki: Why you--! [Hare holds up one finger, which glints in the sun, and swipes at one of Mihoto's ears, making a hole that deflates it, so it drapes across half her face. Mihoto looks on in shock. Black Widow looks at Harumi as though looking for what to target.] Harumi: ENOUGH! [Everyone stops short and looks at her. She takes a deep breath before continuing.] Harumi: ... I don't know about you, but we're doing this because it's something we... love. And we won't let you take it from us without a fight! [Saki and Mihoto look at her in wonder.] Saki: That's right! Not you or anyone! Foxy: I see. Well, if it's a fight you want, a fight you'll get. How about a wager? The winner is the one who can attract the most males by eight p.m. tomorrow. The loser has to give up their suits. Saki: You're on! Mihoto: Yeah! We've already got a head start anyway! ` [Mihoto grabs Ryunosuke, who has a nosebleed.] Foxy: Oh, but the contest hasn't even begin! Hare: As always the Sleek Sexy Bombers will emerge victorious! Black Widow: We'll annihilate you insects! Foxy, Hare, Black Widow: OHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHO! [The "intro music" plays as they stride away.] Harumi: That was... unusual. Saki: [to the crowd/camera] Listen up! I know you guys can help us win! So please! If you want us to keep around, show up tomorrow here at Comic World! [The crowd cheers.] Mihoto: That's right! We won't lose no matter what! [The crowd cheers even more.] Harumi: We'll do our best just for you! [They cheer still more.] Mihoto: [looking at her damaged ear] Hey, does anyone have a puncture repair kit? [Several guys immediately fumble through their belongings, then try to force their way through the crowd with proffered tire repair kits and offers to use them. Dissolve to the girls (in normal clothes) in the closed Comic World, talking to Shimura and Ryunosuke.] Shimura: Y'know, I've seen the mascot thing done more times than any guy deserves to, and you've got to be some of the best. Our sales are through the roof already; I've had to pull in some favors just to make sure we have enough stock for tomorrow. I was going to pay you 1200 yet an hour, but if business keeps up anything like this I'm going to make it 2000. Mihoto: _Really_?! Shimura: I'm a lotta' things, but I ain't no liar. Harumi: Excuse me, but... Do you know anything about those "Sleek Sexy Bombers."? Who they work for? What their history is? Shimura: I've heard of them; they've worked at several different stores, and they may be going into the music industry soon too. Ryunosuke: I _thought_ they sounded familiar. I hear they're ruthless and vindictive too. Saki: It doesn't matter; we can beat them! Ryunosuke: I know you can do it! Mihoto: Thanks Ryu-kun. Ryunosuke: [blushes] By the way, can I walk you home? It's a little late? Mihoto: Me? Um... That'd be great. Saki: All right. Well, see you tomorrow. [Cut to Mihoto and Ryunosuke walking down the street.] Ryunosuke: I... I'm really glad you came. When I saw you I knew you'd be perfect. Mihoto: [takes hold of his hand] Thanks for believing in us. [Ryunosuke blushes and scratches the back of his head with his free hand.] Ryunosuke: Ehehehe... No problem. Mihoto: By the way, what was that I saw you drawing today? Ryunosuke: Huh? Um... I started working on a manga today. Mihoto: Oh? About what? Ryunosuke: Um... It's called "Shining Beast Girl Panic!". Mihoto: You're... making a comic about us? Ryunosuke: Well... sort of. Except that in the comic the suits provide super powers for fighting evil and the Shining Beast Girls are idol singers. Mihoto: [chuckles] I can't wait to read it. [The camera pulls back as the two of them walk down the street, holding hands, under a nearly-full moon. Fade out.] ------------------------------------------------------------------- Episode 4: Battle of the Animal Girls [Open on the girls posing dramatically.] Mihoto: We fight for the Power of Love! Saki: We fight for the Cause of Justice! Harumi: We fight with the Strength of Courage! Mihoto, Saki, Harumi: We are the Shining Beast Girls! [The Sleek Sexy Bombers land in front of them.] Foxy: OHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHOHO! Foolish _Whining_ Beast Girls! Hare: We'll defeat you utterly and take your powers! Saki: Never! Black Widow: Prepare to be vanquished. Saki: Cat Slash! [Saki swipes with her paws and send out three cutting beams of energy, which graze Black Widow.] Black Widow: Poison Web! [Black Widow's extra arms point at Saki and fire off streams of web that wrap Saki up, immobilizing her.] Harumi: Chu-Chu Flash! [Harumi fires off a beam of energy, which narrowly misses Foxy.] Foxy: OHOHOHOHOHO! Foxy Blade! [Foxy launches an energy blade thing that makes a deep gash in Harumi's arm, making her fall unconscious.] Hare: [to Mihoto] Now you're all alone; what are you going to do? [Mihoto looks at her fallen comrades as the Bombers close in on her.] Mihoto: NOOOOOOOO! [Mihoto is surrounded by a brilliant pink energy aura. Cut to Mihoto gasping as she wakes up. She's in her pajamas and sweating.] Mihoto: .... Just a dream... [She stretches in bed, stands up, and opens the curtains to look out at the neighborhood. She picks up a pink plush bunny off her dresser and smiles as she looks at it.] Mihoto: Today's the big day. I _know_ we can do it. [She hugs the bunny. Cut to Mihoto eating breakfast while her mother is washing dishes.] Mihoto's Mother: So, Mihoto-chan, what are you planning to do today? Mihoto: Huh? I'm going out with Saki. Mihoto's Mother: Where're you going? Mihoto: Oh... We'll probably just go shopping downtown. Mihoto's Mother: All right; don't stay out too late again. [Cut to Mihoto in her room; she picks up her backpack and opens it, then pales.] Mihoto: Huh? Where... is it? [She starts looking through her room, growing more and more frantic, then stops short as her mother appears by the door holding a plastic shopping bag with something pink inside.] Mihoto's Mother: [frowning] Are you looking for this? Mihoto: HUH?! Uh... um... Mihoto's Mother: I don't know what you've been doing, but it's apparently something very inappropriate. Mihoto: I--I can explain! Really! I--! Mihoto's Mother: You're _not_ leaving this house today, and that's final. Mihoto: [hangs her head] oh no... [Her mother turns on her heel and strides out, bag in hand. Cut to Saki, Harumi, and Ryunosuke at Comic World; Saki puts the phone down and shakes her head.] Saki: We have a problem. Harumi: What's going on? Saki: Mihoto's mom found out; she's grounded. Harumi: Do you think we can manage without her? Saki: I don't know; that's why I'm gonna' get her out of there. Ryunosuke: A--are you serious?! Saki: [grins] Of course; we're a team now. We stick together. Harumi: I--I want to come too. Saki: ... Thank you, but you should stay here and keep things going until we get back; believe me, I've had more than my share of practice at this kind of thing. Harumi: ... [nods] Right. _Please_ hurry. Saki: [rests a hand on her shoulder] I got everything under control. We'll show those bimbos who's boss. [Saki walks out, flashing a "V" sign as she does so.] Ryunosuke: Well, we'd better get started. Harumi: Right. [Cut to Saki wearing sunglasses and walking around Mihoto's house. She stealthily dashes from bush to bush, until she's under Mihoto's window. She peeks into the first-story window and sees Mihoto's mother watching TV with a sour expression, the bunny- suit sitting on the table in front of her. Saki looks up and lets out a sigh.] Saki: This is gonna' be complicated. [Cut to Harumi emerging from the back room of Comic World. She looks out the window and sees a large crowd has already assembled. She takes a deep breath and steps outside. A massive cheer rises up from the crowd of guys, and in moments Harumi finds herself crowd-surfing and the target of dozens of cameras. She looks worried for a moment, then a smile spreads across her face and she begins outright laughing. The reporter from before is standing at the far end of the crowd, talking into the camera.] Reporter: And today is the day of the big event; this looks like something right out of an anime, with the mouse girl from the day before being supported by a crowd of men of all ages, while across the street the competition has begun with a more elaborate and... provocative routine! [Cut to the Sleek Sexy Bombers up on a stage; pyrotechnics go off as they begin dancing rather suggestively to pounding techno music.] Reporter: We caught it on camera yesterday; the two teams of mascots have put their careers on the line today, but where are the rest of the "Shining Beast Girls"? [Cut to Mihoto in her room, sitting on the bed, still in her pajamas, crying.] Mihoto Voice Over: Why?! Just when they need me the most! And now there's nothing I can do! [Cut to an imaginary sequence; Mihoto's mother barges in to her room.] Mihoto's Mother: Young lady, you're grounded! [Mihoto turns around to face her and shakes her head.] Mihoto: Sorry, mom, but I have to do this. [the poses dramatically] BUNNY FLASH! [Pink light swirls around; Mihoto's clothes fly off, and the suit that her mother is holding turns into a liquid, flows onto Mihoto, and solidifies into the bunny-suit.] Mihoto: They need me; otherwise the city will be in danger. BUNNY MIDNIGHT SLEEP! [She points her hands at her mother and a stream of pinkish dust puts her to sleep. Mihoto leaps out the window and proceeds to make massive leaps from rooftop to rooftop. Cut back to reality. Mihoto hangs her head, and then jumps as she hears what sounds like and explosion. There's a sudden knock at the window. She runs over to it to see Saki hanging there. When Mihoto opens the window Saki climbs in, grabs Mihoto's backpack, and pulls her along, down the stairs.] Mihoto: What--?! Saki: No time to explain! We have to hurry! [They dash into the living room. Saki snatches the bunny-suit, and they jump behind the couch as Mihoto's mother runs into the room, grabs the cordless phone, and dials 119.] Mihoto's Mother: H-hello!? There's been an explosion of some kind outside my house! [Saki points to the back door and Mihoto nods. Together they creep towards it. Cut to Harumi standing on top of a car, waving to the crowd.] Guy #1: Hey! Where's the other two?! Harumi: They'll be here soon! So... so be sure to give them a big cheer when they arrive! Guy #2: Screw this! The other ones were actually able to show up! [Several of them start heading over towards the Sleek Sexy Bombers' stage. Harumi looks worried.] Harumi: Oh no... What can I do? [Ryunosuke runs out armed with a portable karaoke machine, hands Harumi a microphone, and hits play. She falls into singing and dancing as best she can. He flashes her a V-sign and runs back into the store. Cut to Saki and Mihoto running full-tilt down the street.] Mihoto: So what was that... explosion?! Saki: Just some firecrackers! Loud but harmless! And they were hidden well to boot! We have to hurry or the enemy'll beat us before we've even begun! Mihoto: Right! [Cut to Mihoto's mother standing outside the house, which has police and fire trucks parked outside.] Policeman #1: Look, there was no sign of anything ma'am. Please don't use the emergency services for such false alarms. Mihoto's Mother: B-but--! Policeman #2: Have a good day ma'am. [She fumes as she stalks back into the house, then stops short as she notices that the bunny-suit is missing. She dashes up the stairs to find Mihoto's room is empty. Cut to Harumi in the midst of the thinning crowd; she spots Mihoto and Saki and waves to them.] Harumi: Thank goodness! [Cut to Saki and Mihoto running in the back entrance to Comic World.] Ryunosuke: You made it! Mihoto: Yeah! Saki: Showtime! [Cut to the three of them stepping up onto a stage, complete with microphones. Mr. Shimura comes up behind them.] Shimura: I sure hope you can do it; otherwise this is going to be one hell of a waste. Saki: [grins] We're the Shining Beast Girls. [J-Pop music blares as the three of them step up to the microphones.] Saki: All right everyone! Mihoto: The Shining Beast Girls are here! [Every head turns, as do most of the cameras. Cut to the reporter.] Reporter: And it looks like all three Shining Beast Girls are here at last! Now the contest will begin for real! Things really seem to be heating up now! [Cut to the girls; music starts to play and they jump into singing.] Mihoto: You might think I'm weird Saki: You might think I'm strange Harumi: We're just some girls who wanna have fun All Three: We're gonna' do it 'cause we're the ones! Shining Beast Girls! Go on the attack! Shining Beast Girls! Never looking back! Shining Beast Girls! Will be there for you! Shining Beast Girls! We will make it through! Kitty Violet! Saki: I am the one who's the cat's meow The purple kitty cat who'll show you how To have some fun 'cause that's what we're about! Pet me 'till I purr and I'll take you to heaven! All Three: Bunny Pink! Mihoto: I am the one with the cotton tail The pink bunny rabbit for each and every male I like to bounce around all night Can you keep up with me all right? All Three: Mousie Azure! Harumi: I am the one who's gentle and quiet The little blue mouse you just can't ignore Be mean to me and I'll run away But if you're sweet and gentle then I'll make your day All Three: Shining Beast Girls! Go on the attack! Shining Beast Girls! Never looking back! Shining Beast Girls! Will be there for you! Shining Beast Girls! We will make it through! Shining Beast Girls! [The crowd explodes in cheers. The girls exchange glances with expressions of barely contained joy.] Mihoto: [to the crowd] Thank you all so much! [Cut to the Bombers looking across the street, talking amongst themselves.] Black Widow: I don't _get_ it; why are those _amateurs_ attracting so much attention? Foxy: Don't worry. The fight's only begun. Let's move on to the next song. Hare, Black Widow: Right! [Cut to a view of Ryunosuke being inundated with customers, working the register fast as he can; steam is starting to rise from it, and the cash box is starting to bulge. Cut to the girls up on the stage. The crowd has grown considerably, both in size and volume. Saki pauses and smiles to herself.] Saki: Okay! For this next part I'll need a volunteer from the audience! [A huge number of guys start fighting their way towards the front. She picks out a good looking one and hoists him onto the stage. He looks around for a moment, surprised.] Saki: So, what's your name? Guy #3: Um... Ichiro... Saki: [rubbing up against him] So, Ichiro-kun, how do you like the show so far? Guy #3: Umm... Ehh... [he gets a severe nosebleed] It's... great... [Some cheers and laughter wafts up from the crowd.] Mihoto: Hey, Kitty, whatcha' got there? Saki: This is Ichiro; he's mine now. [There's more cheers and whistling and such.] Mihoto: Aww... But I wanna' play with him too! [she starts rubbing against him from the other side] Saki: Well... I guess since we're teammates we can share! [Ichiro has a nosebleed on a scale rarely seen and faints. The crowd cheer's/laughs. Cut to Saki's mother watching TV; the phone rings and she picks it up.] Saki's Mother: Hello? ... Oh, hello; you're Mihoto's mother, right? Hm? No, I hadn't noticed. Really? I thought they looked familiar. ... "Do something about it"? Why? They're just having fun. ... Do you know what I used to do for a living when I needed money for college? ... [grins] Ever heard of the Kitty's Purr Club? ... You're right, and I like it that way. ... [exaggerated cheerfulness] Talk to you later! Bye! [Cut to Mihoto's mother slamming the phone down on the hook.] Mihoto's Mother: No wonder Saki is such a bad influence! She's just like her mother! [She scowls as she glares at the TV, then picks up the phone again.] Mihoto's Mother: I think I know how to put a stop to this. [dials] Yes, I need the number for the "Sleek Sexy Bombers." [Cut to the reporter talking to a random otaku.] Reporter: So, you're saying you came from the other end of Tokyo just to see them? Otaku: Of course! This kind of thing doesn't exactly happen every day. Reporter: So, which team are you rooting for? Otaku: Definitely the Shining Beast Girls! Reporter: And why is that? From what we've heard the Sleek Sexy Bombers have been at it for longer; they're real professionals. Otaku: That's just it! The Beast Girls are so much more honest and genuine! And they're cuter too -- especially Mousie Azure. You can really tell they're putting their hearts into it! Reporter: Oh, and it looks like this is Mr. Shimura, the owner of Comic World, the store that's sponsoring the Shining Beast Girls and creating this whole event! Mr. Shimura, can we have a word with you? Shimura: Hm? Oh, yes, yes. Reporter: How did you come up with this kind of promotion? Shimura: Well, actually it's my assistant, Ryunosuke, who told me about the girls and convinced them to come in and apply. I'd just planned to have them be mascots and hand out flyers and things, but somehow it grew into _this_ overnight. Reporter: And I take it this attention has benefited your store? Shimura: I'd never _dreamed_ of sales figures like we had yesterday, much less what we're getting today. It's been quite a challenge just to keep any stock in the store. Reporter: Amazing! And-- Oh, it seems that something's happening over on the stage! [Cut to the stage where the girls have been interrupter by the Bombers striding onto the stage.] Mihoto: Hey! What're you doing here?! Foxy: Are you sure you want to go through with this Bunny Pink, or should I say, Mihoto? Mihoto: Huh? How do you know my name? Foxy: I know a lot of things about you -- and you'd better stop this nonsense now unless you want the world to hear them. Foxy Voice Over: Her mother was _so_ helpful. [There is a long pause as Mihoto and Foxy try to stare one another down. Saki grins and grabs a microphone.] Saki: What can I say? The Sleek Stupid Bombers are doing so badly that blackmail is the only way they can win! Black Widow: Oh, we've far better tricks than that! [Black Widow starts pulling white rope out of her fake limbs and advancing on Harumi, who backs away, afraid. Foxy produces a flogger, and Hare gets out a whip.] Hare: As you'll soon see, we have the superior technique for dealing with males. Not to mention troublemakers. Saki: This is it; the showdown. But I know we can do it. Mihoto: Yeah! Harumi: I'm with you. Reporter: Incredible! What will happen next!? Who can say? Stay tuned for the next episode of Second Skin: Shining Beast Girl Panic!!!!!! [Fade out.] ------------------------------------------------------------------- Episode 5: Dance With All Your Heart! [Open on the girls facing off with the Bombers on a ruined street, where several buildings are on fire.] Saki: This is it; the final battle. Harumi: We have no choice; we've got to go all out. Mihoto: Right. Together! [The three of them step forward, and each raises one arm.] Saki, Harumi, Mihoto: SHINING BEAST FLASH! [The three of them are suffused with a white glow, and they send out a shockwave of energy in all directions; the Bombers cower at the oncoming blast. Cut to Mihoto on the stage; she blinks and shakes her head.] Mihoto Voice Over: Ah! I've got to stop daydreaming! [The Bombers brandish their weapons and the Beast Girls take a step back. Wearing a wicked grin, Black Widow strides over to Harumi and begins tying her up.] Harumi: Someone help! [Saki starts to rush over only to find Foxy in her way.] Foxy: OHOHOHOHOHO! You'll have to get through me first! [Mihoto is about to go help when a whip cracks mere inches in front of her face; she stops short and turns to see Hare standing there, whip ready.] Mihoto: That's not fair! Hare: Whoever said life was fair? Mihoto: [to herself] Oh no... I have to do something, but... None of us know how to fight... [Cut to Mihoto's mother looking at the TV; her jaw drops and she runs out of the house.] Mihoto's Mother Voice Over: What've I done?! I have to help her! [She stops short when she sees Saki's mother pull up next to her in a car.] Saki's Mother: Had a change of heart? Mihoto's Mother: ... Saki's Mother: You wanna' get in? [Mihoto's mother nods reluctantly. Cut back to the stage; Saki yelps as the flogger hits her and Harumi has been completely immobilized. Hare bitch-laughs as she keeps Mihoto "dancing" with repeated cracks of the whip. Cut to the reporter, near- hysterical, with the crowd around him variously cheering and booing.] Reporter: What a terrible turn of events! The Shining Beast Girls are at the mercy of the Sleek Sexy Bombers -- and mercy seems to be the last thing on the minds of the Bombers! It doesn't look good for the Beast Girls at all! [Cut to Saki tripping and falling. Foxy looms over her, brandishing the flogger.] Mihoto: SAKI! [Mihoto turns around just in time to see Hare winding up with her whip; Mihoto flinches and covers her face... Moments pass and she opens her eyes to see her mother standing there, wearing bunny ears and having just pulled the whip out of Hare's hands. She turns around and sees Saki's mother (wearing cat-ears) having similarly disarmed Foxy.] Mihoto: M... mom? [Saki's mother helps her daughter to her feet, while Mihoto's mother gives Hare a venomous glare.] Mihoto's Mother: I don't know who you think you are, but if you touch my daughter again you'll wish you were never born. Hare: Y-you! You're the one who gave us the information about--! Mihoto's Mother: _You're_ the ones who went _too_far_. [Mihoto's mother takes a step closer and Hare trips over her heels. She smiles to herself and walks over to Mihoto. In the background, Saki is untying Harumi while her mother holds off Foxy and Black Widow.] Mihoto's Mother: Are you alright? [Mihoto nods numbly.] Mother: [hugging Mihoto] I-- ... I'm sorry. I didn't mean for this to happen. [Cut to the reporter.] Reporter: INCREDIBLE! The _mothers_ of Bunny Pink and Kitty Violet have come to the rescue! The Pro Wrestlers _wish_ they could do it this good! [Cut back to the stage.] Saki's Mother: [talking to Saki, but with a microphone nearby] We should go now; get out there and win this one! Saki: Right! [The mothers walk off the stage. Harumi looks across the street at a clock; it says 7:45.] Harumi: It's almost time! We have to do something! Saki: [to the Bombers] Alright! We have just enough time to settle this once and for all -- fair and square! It'll be a dance contest! [to the audience] You guys stand on the side of the stage of the ones you like best! Foxy: You're on! [Cut to Ryunosuke fumbling with a CD player backstage. Cut to the front of the stage; the girls are on the right side, the Bombers are on the left, each group lined up.] Foxy: Foolish little girls. Hare: Dancing is our specialty. Black Widow: Well, _one_ of our specialties. Mihoto: Let's do it. I know we can win. [The girls look out at the crowd; a mass of guys is sprawling out into the streets, and many of them are holding up signs, some of which feature caricatures of the girls, and nearly all with words of encouragement. As the music begins, smiles spread over their faces. Both teams jump into dancing; the girls seem to have a little difficulty staying in sync, while the Bombers dance with rehearsed ease. Suddenly Mihoto stumbled a little but keeps dancing. Mihoto looks down at her ankle.] Mihoto Voice Over: Oh no! [Flashback; show a close-up as Hare's whip hits her ankle.] Mihoto Voice Over: Ow! It hurts, but... I have to keep going! We have to win! [Cut to an imaginary sequence; the girls stand victorious over the Bombers in the ruined city.] Saki: We did it! We finally won! Mihoto: Yeah... Thank goodness. [Mihoto suddenly collapses. The others immediately kneel at her side. Harumi unzips the suit to reveal a deep wound.] Saki: Bunny Pink... You were fighting even though you were injured? Mihoto: I... I couldn't let you down... Harumi: P-please hold on! We'll get you to a hospital soon! [Cut back to reality; Mihoto keeps dancing, but winces every now and then. Cut to the Bombers.] Hare: H-how can that girl still be going? Black Widow: What do you mean? Hare: She should barely be able to walk after the blow I gave her ankle! [Cut to the girls.] Saki: Are you alright Mihoto? Mihoto: I--I'm fine! Harumi: Are you sure? We can stop-- Mihoto: No! We've come this far, and we'll finish it! Together! [A quick glance at the crowd shows the girls are slowly pulling ahead. Cut to the reporter talking to Mr. Shimura again.] Reporter: So what are your plans if the girls win? Shimura: "If"? I have more faith in them than that. You can expect to see us at the next manga convention. [Cut to the girls; a glance at the clock says 7:58.] Mihoto Voice Over: Just a little longer! Owwwwwww... [Cut to the Bombers. Black Widow and Hare are glaring at Foxy.] Hare: This isn't looking good Foxy. Black Widow: If you have a plan I'd really like to hear it. [Foxy scowls. The clock has moved to 7:59.] Foxy: It's time for the final technique. There's no other way. [The other two nod and reach for their zippers, then stop short as they realize that the Beast Girls have beat them to it and are unzipping their suits (just enough to show a little cleavage) in time to the music. The crowd goes completely nuts and several guys collapse with nosebleeds. The clock turns over to 8:00 just as the music reaches a crescendo and stops, and a massive cheer rises up from the crowds. The girls look out at the crowds and see that the one on their side is about three times what the Bombers have. Mihoto sits down, nursing her ankle, wincing now and then. Cut to the reporter.] Reporter: I hate to be reduced to yelling and screaming, but AAAAAAAHHHH! The Shining Beast Girls are unquestionably the winners! I've never seen energy like this from a crowd! What's more incredible is that it looks like Bunny Pink was performing the entire time with an injured ankle! Is that dedication or what! [Cut to Saki gripping a microphone in one paw and grinning as she looks at the Bombers, who are glaring at one another.] Saki: Looks like you three lost! And since you wanted it, the losers have to take off their suits forever! Foxy: [sullenly] So? Saki: So what're you waiting for?! Take 'em off! [The crowd roars in assent. The Bombers exchange glances. Black Widow smiles and shrugs, and starts unzipping her suit. The other two stare at her for a moment and numbly follow suit, removing the outfits, leaving them in their (sweaty) birthday suits. The crowd cheers and cat-calls and such for a while, until the Bombers stalk off the stage, leaving their suits behind.] Foxy: [to Saki] Watch your back; you haven't seen the last of us. [Saki rolls her eyes and turns to the crowd.] Saki: Thanks everyone! We couldn't have done it without you! You're the best! [A thunderous roar goes up from the crowd. Dissolve to the girls (dressed normally) in the back of Saki's mother's car, with Mihoto's mother in the passenger seat.] Saki's Mother: ...Pretty Lover Doll, huh? We'll have to check that out some time; wanna' go next week Saki? [Saki bigsweats.] Mihoto's Mother: Are you really sure you want to keep doing this? I mean, what about college? Finding husbands? Saki's Mother: Well, they're already making more than some idol singers do. Affording college won't be a problem if they save up part of every paycheck. Saki: And if anything I think we'll be getting _too_many_ marriage proposals. Mihoto's Mother: I suppose. Still, being on national television like that... Mihoto: But Mom, you ended up on the news too... [Her mother goes pale for a moment and lets out a long sigh.] Mihoto's Mother: Well... Even if I never do live it down it was worth it to rescue my daughter. Mihoto: Thank you, mom. Mihoto's Mother: Oh... and Harumi? I'd been meaning to ask, how did you of all people wind up a part of this? Harumi: Well... I suppose I have Saki to... thank... for that. Saki: The one thing I wanna' know is, what was up with those ears? Mihoto's Mother: It was her idea. Saki's Mother: Dramatic effect, girls. That way we were the courageous mothers of Bunny Pink and Kitty Violet rather than a couple of deranged housewives. [Mihoto smiles and looks out the window as the others continue talking. Dissolve to an imaginary sequence. The Shining Beast Girls stand opposite Lady Bunny and Lady Kitty.] Mihoto: I... don't know how to thank you for all your help. Lady Kitty: No need to thank us. Lady Bunny: I only hope you can forgive me for what I did to you. Mihoto: Of course. Lady Bunny: [smiles, on the verge of tears] Then we should be going. Farewell. [Lady Bunny and Lady Kitty teleport away. Fade out.] ------------------------------------------------------------------- Afterword For a while I was asking myself why the hell I decided to write this. It started with some random sketches of what would eventually become Mihoto, then I drew Saki and Harumi, and the plot started forming of its own accord, and when I mentioned the idea to my friends on the way to Anaheim they were enthusiastically supportive. Cut adrift from the real world for those three days, I started to write. Like a lot of my better stories, writing it was a release (the same is true of hitomi). In this case I was finally letting myself stop taking such a negative attitude towards sexuality (hence Mihoto's pink bunny outfit, symbolizing affection and fun in my distorted personal mythos). I have some vague ideas for a sequel, but the initial catharsis is already done with and I haven't felt any particular desire to since then. But I do want to re-visit Mihoto and her friends some day, when the time is right. Oh, and on a final note, my friend Suichi did up a T-shirt of Mihoto for his "Fanservice" site (http://home.earthlink.net/~fireball13/fanservice.html), and you can even order one of your own at http://www.cafepress.com/fanservice/. Kind of odd that _this_ would be the first of my stories to have its own merchandise... ^_^; ------------------------------------------------------------------ Ewen "Blackbird" Cluney blackbird@blackbird.nu Blackbird's Domain http://www.blackbird.nu/ The Official Thrash Home Page http://thrash.blackbird.nu/ Knight Kevlar of the Immortal Frog Silver Knight of Mihoshi "Be nice to me; I might just develop psychokinetic powers and destroy Tokyo!" ------------------------------------------------------------------