Made in Mason City

The End: The Epilogue

2008-10-05T11:36:00.001-07:00

It was a rainy winter afternoon, and Mason City airport was filled with travelers and people on the week of Christmas. Everyone was too busy with their own matter to notice anything else--anything else that wan't supposed to be there, anything else unsual. The place itself was chaotic. Amid all of this was a man sitting on a bench, watching the news on the small TV screen. His emotionless face was covered by sunglasses and a hat.

Reporter: Up until now, there have been no other sightings of Bang Kieu, Minh Tuyet, Nhu Loan or LTQ. There is a rumor going around that Nhu Loan and LTQ was kidnapped by two men in leather jackets and they were transported in a black car. Minh Tuyet is said to have survived the explosion, but the authority refuses to comment anything else on the matter. Fans everywhere are enraged and demands an answer. Our question is, where is Bang Kieu when all this had happened, and whether or not he had anything to do with his 3 friends' mysterious disappearance. This is Chuck reporting Live from-

The man shook his head as he got up to grab some coffee, the night before took a toll on him and he needs all the energy he can get.

The cafe owner handed him a fresh brewed cup, he proceeded to the side where he added milk and sugar to his coffee. A lady dressed in all black approached a newsstand beside him, she had on a short dress with a floppy hat the size of an umbrella and huge shades on to hide her pretty face. Flipping through the magazines, she kept looking toward his direction as if trying to figure out something. He took a sip of his coffee and immediately placed it down to add more sugar and the lady watched as he dump a load to his cup.

"Are you kidding me? Do you want to get fatter?"

Man: Huh? Excuse me?

The lady growled in annoyance and walked up to him in a rhythm reminiscent of someone he knew.

Man: "Oh..."

She removed her sunglasses, to reveal a fresh powdered face looking at him. Whatever marks that might've been there from the previous night were covered with layers of make up, making it seem like nothing had happened.

"Aren't you gonna say hi to me?"

Man: Uh...hi?

(the lady smiles while shaking her head)

"So you're picking up Beckham?"

"Yeah, if I left him there longer, he'll probably disown me as a father...so how about you? Are you attending Jack's funeral? How thoughtful." (chuckling)

"Ha, ha, very funny. I'm leaving to Paris today."

"So soon? Can't you stay? I mean with Loey and Quang gone, it's..."

"You're a strong boy, deal with it. Besides, you could always come visit them once they get settled in their new place."

"That reminds me--gotta call Mr. Hung later and thanks the guy. Gotta admit that his plan was flawless. Had me thinking they were really kidnapped."

A brief moment passed by without neither of them saying anything. Both seemed to be holding back something that they dared not say. Finally, the guy spoke:

"Well I just want to say that-"

Suddenly a man, who greatly resembles a famous superstar who had just announed his early retirement a day before, appeared.

"Hey honey, our jet is ready-Kieu! Didn't know you were here! If I knew you were here we could've had lunch or something but it's too late now we gotta go, come on Tuyet!"

"God, I hate that guy." Bang Kieu murmured under his breath. He hoped no one had heard their names called.

Minh Tuyet picked up her luggage and followed Aaron, she turned around and looked at Bang Kieu before giving him a warm smile and waved as she put on her sunglasses and ran up to Aaron. Bang Kieu watched as they disappeared into the crowd, and at the same time, a familiar face emerged. Beckham spotted his dad and let go of the woman's hand and dragged his suitcase across the floor toward Bang Kieu, who crouched down to hug his son with the uninjured arm. After a moment of silence, Beckham began telling him the exciting things he has done as the women caught up and kneeled by his side. Bang Kieu was so happy to see his son that he ignored the achs and pains from his injuries. He looked over at the woman and smiled at her.

Bang Kieu: Thank you, Trizzie.

Pain

2008-10-05T11:13:00.000-07:00

With all his years of working for Jack, Bang Kieu didn't have to think about it twice before yanking Jack out of his chair and used him as a shield. Minh Tuyet is alive, and Band Kieu had made up his mind to get keep the both of them that way. He could hear her mumbling something outside the door.

Then there were footsteps. And came the knock on the door, followed by a man's voice, "I got her."

Bang Kieu immediately realized the voice. The killer. Gomez. He pushed the gun harder against Jack's head.

Jack: Finally...what took you so long?

"You won't believe this bitch. Won't give up without a fight. Won't shut up- Can I come in?... AND YOU BETTER SHUT UP!"

Bang Kieu heard screams and tried to ignore it, so that he can concentrate on thinking upe what to do next. He pulled Jack to the side and stood behind the door.

"Mr. Jack?" Gomez grew impatient and knocked on the door again.

Bang Kieu gave Jack a look and whispered, "Answer him." While keeping his gun pointed to Jack's head at all time.

Jack opened the door just enough for the killer to see his face.

Gomez: The other two probably didn't make it out in time. I've been trying to tell you, my bomb WORKS. So what do you want me to do with her?

Jack: Leave her.

Gomez: What? That's it-

Jack: Leave her here, and go **** off somewhere.

Gomez: Hey, old man, no need to blow up at me for no reason. I just did you a favor here.

Jack: Leave her here, and go **** off somewhere, you son of a b-

Gomez had enough. He pushed the door open and gave Jack a punch in the face. While Bang Kieu, on the inside, didn't expect the blow and was knocked in the head with the door, which made him fall against the wall. By the time he recovered from the blow and managed to get himself together, the Killer already noticed his presence in the room.

Jack: GET THE GIRL!

Gomez hesitated for a split second but he obeyed the orders. Bang Kieu tried to beat him to the door but he was too late. By the time he got there, Gomez already had Minh Tuyet in his arms, and a gun pointed to her head.

Minh Tuyet: Aw, not again!

Bang Kieu immediately pointed his gun at Jack and quickly turned around to keep an eye on the killer and Minh Tuyet. But that was his big mistake. Jack had got a hold of his own gun under the desk.

A loud bang was heard and Bang Kieu felt a stinging pain shot through his right shoulder that caused him to drop his gun and groaned in pain. There was but one thought that went through his mind: It's all over.

Minh Tuyet: Oh my god, Kieu!

Gomez: SHUT UP BITCH!

Minh Tuyet: DON'T TELL ME TO SHUT UP! WHY DON'T YOU-AH!

Gomez punched Minh Tuyet in the face hard enough for blood to trickle out of her mouth. She stared in shock as Jack let out a chuckle. Blood began pouring from Bang Kieu's arm, every second he was turning paler.

Jack began kicking Bang Kieu around in amusement. This piece of crap had caused him too much pain in the past. Wasted his valuable time and effort. This is the moment he had to enjoy to its fullest.

Jack: Well...let's see. I'm gettin' tired now...

Jack put a finger up to his temple and motioned Mr. Gomez, whom followed by putting a gun to Minh Tuyet's head. She looked at Bang Kieu in great fear, and a tear fell from her eye as she mouthed his name while Jack and his killer laughed.

Bang Kieu looked at his gun that was in his reach. He could try and take a shot with his left arm. And he had to do it quick. Bang Kieu used all the strength he had left to make one quick, smooth move and swoops up the gun and fired. It all happened too quick for anyone to react.

He fired two shots. The first one hit Minh Tuyet, to Gomez's surprise, and the killer quickly lets go of his victim to fire back at Bang Kieu. But he was too late. A bullet had already went through his head. Gomez collapsed and pulled Minh Tuyet down with him.

Bang Kieu then turned around to face Jack, at which point he felt another piercing pain that tore through his chest. The two men looked into each other's eyes for a split second, both with their guns ready to fire again.

Minh Tuyet watched it intently as it happened, and screamed as she heard the loud gunshot. The last gunshot to be heard on that bloody night.

Saved

2008-10-05T11:08:00.000-07:00

Bang Kieu loosened his grip on the phone when he heard the loud explosions. In his head were images and thoughts he didn't want to think of. And then, as Minh Tuyet's phone went dead, he collapsed to his knees. He wasn't aware of Jack or anything around him anymore. Jack sat down in his leather chair with his leg crossed while twiddling his fingers in amusement.

Jack: Aw poor Kieu. Shame. They'll be terrible missed.
-------------------------------------

Nhu Loan pulled away from DTV's arms and raced towards the wreckage, She tried to move a piece of broken concrete and instinctly drew her hand back as the thing still seems to be burning--and so was everything else. Not knowing what to do, she screamed in frustration and buried her face into her hands. She had just lost someone and now she was gonna lose another loved one?

Suddenly, she heard a loud motor approaching and looked up. A huge bulldozer was heading towards the building. DTV was driving it and he waved ridiculously at her. Knowing what the genius is going to do, she ran up to him.

Nhu Loan: What the hell are you doing?

DTV: I'm gonna scoop up the stuff so we can find him better!

Nhu Loan: What if you kill him in the process!

DTV: Uh...

Nhu Loan: Please! Just get it out of here!
-------------------------------------

Bang Kieu was still buried by his haunting thoughts as he kneeled on the floor in silence. The worse he'd feared of had happened and yet his brain simply cannot grasp it.

Jack: You still have your son (chuckles)

Still no reply.

Jack: Now, now Kieu. Don't worry, you'll make new friends eventually and since we go way back, how about I leave you alone with them for a few years this time around, eh?

----------------------------------------
(Aftermath of the explosion)

After a few minutes, the firemen had arrived. The shocked and worried Nhu Loan stood by DTV as the two of them watched piles of rubbles being pulled away.

Nhu Loan: Are you sure they are qualified?

DTV: Of course!

Nhu Loan: Vu, they are your men dressed in firemen costumes-

DTV: Hey! They are authentic...enough. Is Ebay reliable?

Nhu Loan: I don't care, I want my baby!

One of them pulled a huge boulder away and had called the others to gather. They called out to their boss and both Nhu Loan and DTV rushed over to see. It was definitely a body as the men pushed away more rocks and reveal a body covered in dust.

Please, be him. Wait...no, DON'T be him. God, please. Just-

It was him.

Nhu Loan: QUANG! NO!

Firefighter: Miss, please stay away, we need to get him out and to the hospital as quickly as possible-

DTV: Hospital? We're not going to a hospital!

Nhu Loan: What-Why not? Is he dead?

The very thought of it scared her. No, he can't be dead. But who survives that kind of explosion? Despite the firefighter's requests, she went ahead and kneeled down next to him in the rugged rubble and held his head up. His face was badly bruised and burnt and was half covered in blood.

"God. No. No. Please. No..." She broke down in tears. The firemen tried to pull her away but she fought her way to stay back. She wanted to scream. But here was this invisible lump in her throat that prevent her from doing so. All she could do was cry. It made her feel useless and weak.

Nhu Loan: He's alive! He's got to be!

DTV (sounding all serious): Of course he's alive! Now pull yourself together! We gotta get out of here quick.

Nhu Loan: He ..is?

DTV: Yes. Now let's-

Nhu Loan: Can I-

DTV: NO! LET's GO!

Some firemen grabbed Nhu Loan by the arms and pulled her away. She was no longer fighting it this time, but rather just looking back, her eyes filled with a hint of hope and relief.

DTV quickly turns around to one of his men who were now taking care of LTQ, asking, "He IS alive, right?"

Suddenly, LTQ's lips started to move and he tried to say something.

"Loo"

Firemen: Looks like he is! Lucky for you.

DTV: What is he saying, 'loo'?

Upon seeing LTQ being able to talk, Nhu Loan broke free of the firemen grips and ran towards him.

"Quang! What are you trying to say?"

DTV: I think he said he loves me.

Firemen: Aw- how cute. You guys together.

Nhu Loan: SHUT UP! I can't hear him... Loey... Yes dear, I'm here. Monnn...? Mon..ney?

DTV: I think he's trying to tell us his will!

After several tries, LTQ finally said something that was understandable.

"Mom..my.., you 'ont ...hatt too tuck me in too..night, I cann.. do that my..self.

Nhu Loan: Oh my god, you're talkin- Wait...What did you say?

DTV: Something must've hit his head real bad. Oh, look--our ride is here.

Out of nowhere, a car came speeding by and pulled up in front of them, two men in black leather jackets came out.

DTV: No, wait-You can't!

The mens ignored him, pushing him aside and grabbing both Nhu Loan and LTQ.

Nhu Loan: (confused) What? Where are you taking us? What's going on?

LTQ: (groans)

Nhu Loan: Vu...VU!!!!!!! HELP!!!!!!!

Too late, they were both shoved into the car and the door was slammed shut as the men went in after them.
---------------------------------------------------

Jack: (laughs) Why so quite, Kieu? Don't you find that funny?

Bang Kieu looked up, his hands held on tightly to his gun.

Jack: Imagining your friends body parts splattered everywhere, I can see it now! LTQ is probably oatmeal...(laughs) that's sure gonna be hard to bury him...oh yeah and the beautiful Nhu Loan, what a waste to see a face like that mutilated to a point of nothingness...oh, and the precious Minh Tuyet, such a strong lady...if you make it in time you'll probably get to catch her last breath and-

"ENOUGH!"

Bang Kieu shot up instantly and shoved his gun in the middle of Jack's forehead. No more thinking. He's just going to do it this time. Pull the trigger.

Then he heard something. A girl's voice. One he knew too well. He didn't know whether to be happy or afraid now that he's got something to lose once again.

Rage

2008-10-05T10:33:00.000-07:00

(Somewhere far away)

"Yes, that's very good. You know I expect results this time. Don't dissapoint me." Jack said into his phone, then hung up. Next thing he felt was a cold, hard object against his face. He knew the feeling only too well.

Jack: Beretta 92...hm. Impressive, Kieu. Couldn't expect any less, though.

Bang Kieu: Hello, Jack.

Jack: How did you pass my men?

Bang Kieu: You mean this guy?

He held up a beaten up middle aged man by the collar, who gave a slight grunt. Jack looked at his guard in disappointment and then at Bang Kieu who threw him to the ground. As Jack watched his guard collasping and falling into a state of unconciousness, he grinned.

Jack: I underestimated you, Kieu. As always.

Bang Kieu: Now you will pay for it-

Jack: You know, it's funny that I just talked to a friend of mine. Mr. Gomez. I supposed you know him?

Of course he did. The killer. Nguyen Hung had told him about it and Bang Kieu himself spent days tailing the guy. Still, he made no reply to the question, but instead concentrate on keeping his finger on the trigger and his eyes on Jack.

Jack continued on while flipping his phone open. "He's out tonight to take care of some...fireworks for a party hosted by Mr. Aaron's company. Look... it's 8:53 already."

Jack paused, a faint smile spread across his wrinkled, weathered face. "And I think you should be interested in knowing that the show starts at 9:00?"

Bang Kieu: STOP PLAYING GAMES, Jack! What are you talking about?

Jack: There's still time.
-------------------------------
(At the party)

After a while of dancing, Minh Tuyet and Aaron decided that it's time to find something to eat. Just when she had her plates ready and her forks in hand, the phone rang. Annoyed, she checked the Caller I.D. and found out it was Bang Kieu. Still mad from what happened last night, she didn't want to pick up but something told her she should take this call.

Minh Tuyet: What?

Bang Kieu: Tuyet, listen to me carefully. There is a bomb in the building. Get yourself and everyone out of there as soon as possible!

Minh Tuyet: There's a bomb?

A lady passed by overheard the word bomb, screamed out loud to the entire crowd that there's a bomb in the building. Minh Tuyet stood there as the room turned into chaos as everyone headed towards the exit in a hurry. Never had she ever witness jewelry-clad snobs acted so immaturely as people were jumping on top of each other like monkeys trying to escape from their cages. The crowd ran over some people who was either too slow or didn't have a clue of what was going on.

DTV: STOP! Everyone remain calm and stay where you are. We will exit this building in an orderly fashion!

Everyone stopped and looked at each other for a single moment before returning to panic mode and running over DTV.
-------------------------------
(On the other line)

All Bang Kieu could hear through the phone was DTV's voice and then screamings.

"Tuyet? You still there?"

Though Minh Tuyet haven't hung up on him yet, there were no reply. Furious, he hit the smiling Jack square on the face with all his might.

"You sick bastard! Tell your man to turn off the bomb! NOW!"

Then he heard a loud scream over the phone and that distracted him from Jack for a split of a second.
--------------------------------
(At the party)

LTQ was turning his head in every direction, looking for a sight of Loey. Where could she be, he thought. Desperate, he started asking people that ran past him, trying not to get ran over in the process. But in such situation, no one bothered to stop and listen, let alone answer his question. Finally, he caught a hold of DTV.

LTQ: Where's Loey?

DTV: I don't know! Still inside, maybe?

LTQ's face turned pale and he started running against the flow of the crowd, trying to get back inside.
--------------------------------
(Outside the building)

Nhu Loan stopped to catch her breath. She's finally made it outside.

"Well, Quang, WE MADE IT!" She said happily and turns around to hug LTQ.

"Um...miss?" A unfamiliar voice asked.

Nhu Loan looked up to see that it wasn't LTQ all along, that she had grabbed the wrong person and haven't even looked back once to see that it wasn't him.

"Oh- Wait... if you're- then where's-" Nhu Loan quickly let go of the strange man. The next person that ran past her turns out to be DTV. Nhu Loan managed to stop him.

Nhu Loan: Vu! Where's Quang?

DTV: Loey! Um- you're not...inside?

Hope

2008-09-18T18:05:00.000-07:00

Limos are lined up as the drivers walk out to open the doors revealing snobbish people as they exit the car stylishly, making their way up the steps to the party. Minh Tuyet got out of her car with great frustration, it seems that her dress didn't allow her to split her legs wide enough. Stumbling out, she hopped her way back into balance.

Minh Tuyet: I'ma kill my hips!

A lady beside her gave Minh Tuyet a weird look as Minh Tuyet politely smiled back. She held her clutch close to her and fumbled with her long flowing dress up the steps, in stilettos. She muttered under her breath as she got to the top, only to find the dashing Aaron standing in front of her.

Aaron: You made quite an entrance there (laughs)

Minh Tuyet: I don't know what you are talking about.

He smiled and held out his arm and she gently wrapped hers around it. They enter inside to a grand hall where everyone mingled and snack on expensive sushi. Aaron grabs two glasses from a waiter and hands one to Minh Tuyet and both takes a sip.

Minh Tuyet: So, aren't you gonna greet your other guest?

Aaron: I only waited for one person.
--------------------------------

Nhu Loan: See, this is what you get for getting drunk and over-sleeping.

LTQ: What's the big deal? I'm getting dressed right now!

Nhu Loan: That's the point, you are changing in the back of a limo.

LTQ: Oh, like you've never done it!

The limo pulls up in front of the entrance just as LTQ slips on his belt, the driver opens the door, Nhu Loan walks out with LTQ following behind buckling up his belt and fixing his collar. They received stares by everyone they passed by. Nhu Loan walked up the steps angrily.

Nhu Loan: You see?

LTQ: What?

Nhu Loan: Everyone thinks we did it!

LTQ: Did what?

Nhu Loan shook her head and smiled at his naiveness... or slowness, whichever way one choose to look at it. "Never mind. Let's hurry. The party had already started."

As they entered the room, Aaron and Minh Tuyet walked up to greet them. LTQ frowned as Nhu Loan lights up a big smile and exchanged small talks. Then there goes DTV.

DTV: Aaron! Oh-my-gosh. Finally I found you. I was one of the first people here, where were you? Here's your drink. Bourbon. Your favorite.

Aaron reluctantly accepted the drink. "Uh- Thanks, Vu."

LTQ seized the chance to pull Nhu Loan aside, leaving Aaron and Minh Tuyet to DTV. He coudln't think of anything to say other than, "Look, food!" and then dissappeared into the crowd with Loey.

DTV continued on: I love what you did with the place.

Aaron: I didn't. Someone designed everything.

DTV: Oh well you hired the right people. You're so smart.

Aaron: Thank you, if it's alright with you, I would like a moment with Tuyet.

DTV: Sure.

Aaron: Um...I meant alone.

DTV: Oh, that's cool.

Aaron gently leads Minh Tuyet off to the side, he puts down his glass and looks at her. "Oh shoot, here comes the bad news" she thought to herself.

Aaron: I don't know how to say this-

"Dude, we haven't even gone out yet." Minh Tuyet thought.

Aaron: I mean I know it's too much for you to handle-

"Is it really that hard to say 'let's not see each other again?' Geeze!"

Aaron: And I know you didn't plan on...um...

"Just say it already!"

Aaron: Ah-um.. okay. Tuyet, will you move to Paris with me?

Now that's a shocker. Minh Tuyet was stumped.

Minh Tuyet: I don't know what to say.

Aaron: I understand if you don't want to leave, you've asked me to move here with you so I guess I deserved it.

Minh Tuyet looks down, she was lost in her thoughts, she didn't know whether she would just abandon everything she had just to go on another roller coaster ride of love?

Minh Tuyet: Truth to be told, I've been rather lonely lately...I need an escape.

Aaron: Is that a yes?

--------------------------------------
Nhu Loan: Come on Quang, stop eating.

LTQ: Loey, it's not every day you get to eat all the caviar you want and not have to pay a buck for it!

Nhu Loan: Let's dance.

LTQ: I'm not finished!

Nhu Loan shoves the cracker down his mouth as she drags him under the disco ball. She wrapped her arms around his body and they begin to dance. She laid against his shoulder as they rocked back and forth, the next thing she heard were crunches followed by chewing.

Nhu Loan: Did you grabbed extras?

LTQ: You want some?

Nhu Loan: QUANG!

LTQ: Alright.

He brushed off excess crumbs from his face and it fell onto Nhu Loan's bare back, she glared at him.

LTQ: Sorry (brushing the crumbs and continuing to dance)

A thought suddenly flashes Nhu Loan's mind. She was happy, and was actually having fun but thinking of this made her uneasy somehow.

"You know, I wonder what Kieu's doing..."

Season 2 Finale Official Poster

2008-09-07T19:19:00.000-07:00

Coming Soon

The Last Meeting

2008-08-30T07:36:00.000-07:00

Bang Kieu walked into Spike's bar, the only place where people can escape from their troubles within a matter of minutes, or even seconds. Tonight, it had a colorful group of people: a biker who's just enjoying a refreshing night out by gulping down on a bottle of beer, a young fellow whose first time to drink washed down whiskey in excitement, a mother who have sneaked out of the house to enjoy a little stress reliever, a gentleman in a suit slamming one shot after another, a lady in a designer gown with her back turned from everyone. He joins everyone by taking an empty seat.

"What can I get you?" The bartender asked.

"Scotch." That should do the trick, Bang Kieu told himself. He needed to get some thoughts off his mind. For now.

He took a swig of his Scotch and observes the environment. Everyone seems to be occupied. He then noticed the women in the designer gown has left.

"Hello."

Now he knows why she did, probably a lonely socialite looking for a bad boy to have fun with, he thought to himself. He puts down his drink and without looking at her replied, "Lady I'm not interested"

"Interested in what, idiot?"

Bang Kieu ignored her and picked up his glass when he felt a smack across the back of his head. Pissed, he turns around only to find a familiar face glaring at him with her hands on her hips.

Bang Kieu: Tuyet! I didn't know it was you. I-uh-Why are you here?

Minh Tuyet: Not to see you, that's for sure. I came here to blow off some steam.

Across the room, there was a loud commotion as the man in the suit demanded more vodka shots.

"Hit me!"

"Sir, this is not blackjack."

"Whatever. Hit me with another!

Bang Kieu: Quang! Wait..he went with you?

Minh Tuyet: What? I went alone!

She rushed over to LTQ and pulled him over towards where Bang Kieu was sitting at. LTQ stumbled, causing her to fall with him. Bang Kieu helped carry him over to a table where they all took a seat.

Bang Kieu: Quang! How many drinks did you had?

LTQ: I-I-ad-ly-lonley-two-ooo (holding two fingers and collapsing head down)

Minh Tuyet: We just came from eating with Aaron.

LTQ: Aaron?! Where- [hiccups] Me ...and him's [hiccups] gonna have ..a TALK!

Bang Kieu: What's he mumbling about?

Minh Tuyet: Heck if I know.

A minute passed by.

Bang Kieu: So, how did the dinner go?

Minh Tuyet: Ask the knucklehead! It was going great and all till he and his gay buddy shows up!

LTQ: Voom!

Nhu Loan entered in, she had went to her apartment to change and found out from Vu that LTQ had went here. Scanning the room, she spotted not just LTQ but all her 3 friends sitting in the corner. With great delight, she headed over.

Nhu Loan: Hey! Kieu! You're here!

She didn't really expect to see him again after his visit to the hospital. Loey reached over and hugged him, before taking a seat next to LTQ.

Nhu Loan: What happened to Quang?

LTQ: Lonely too.

Nhu Loan: Baby, I'm here.

Minh Tuyet: No, he meant he only had two vodka shots.

Nhu Loan: Oh.

Bang Kieu: Well, look at this. We're all here...well, Quang isn't really here, but...

Another minute passed by without talking. Minh Tuyet wished secretly inside her head that they would just all get up and leave so that she can finally be alone. Bang Kieu tried to think up an excuse so he could leave and get back to his job. Nhu Loan was searching for something to say to break the awkward silence. LTQ was just dozing off.

Nhu Loan: So, have you guys been thinking about Mr. Hung's offer to leave the city?

Minh Tuyet didn't know what to answer. Frankly, she haven't gave it much thoughts. Though as afraid as she is of staying, the thought of being somewhere in the country living a normal life until the day she dies is even more frightening.

Bang Kieu couldn't really tell his friends that he isn't planning on leaving. He's not really even planning on living past this week. But had another second of silence went by, he might've told his friends just that and ruined all the plans he had.

Seeing that everyone was reluctant to answer, Nhu Loan went ahead and answered her own question, "I'm probably leaving."

Everyone thought LTQ was asleep but he suddenly responded to that. "I'm with you, honey."

Minh Tuyet: Well... I want to stay, but...

Bang Kieu: Staying? Are you crazy? If Jack lives then not only will you put yourself but everyone else you know in danger!

Nhu Loan: Wait, what do you mean, "if Jack lives.."

Bang Kieu: Um... I mean, Nguyen Hung has sent his men after Jack. But there's no guarantee that any of them will succeed. And don't change the topic... Tuyet, you gotta leave!

Minh Tuyet: You can't make me!

Then it struck him. Bang Kieu never really thought about it that way. What if he died and Jack lives on? Who's going to protect his friends? Surely one can only escape death so many times...

Bang Kieu: Tuyet, listen to me-

Minh Tuyet: Hey, what about you? You're planning on staying, too, arent you?

Bang Kieu: What- No. I'm leaving, too. My son's already left the city. Please promise me you'll leave?

Before Minh Tuyet can say anything, Bang Kieu saw two men in white suits from the corner of his eyes. Time to leave, he thought.

"Well, I gotta go now." He said, looking at his friends one by one as he stood up, thinking, I'm gonna to miss you guys.
----------------------------

Once Bang Kieu was outside and was about to enter his car, someone called out his name. He turned around and saw Minh Tuyet running towards him.

Minh Tuyet: Kieu! Hold on... Are you going to the party?

Bang Kieu hesitated for a minute, deciding whether or not to lie. "No. I got other things to do."

He tried his best to make the words sounds calm and even a bit cold-hearted. He wished that she could just go back in there and forget that he ever existed. Without saying another word, he stepped into his car.

As he drove away, Bang Kieu looked back in the rear view mirror. Minh Tuyet looked extremetly dissapointed and even a bit mad.

Great. He thought. The last memory I'll have of Tuyet.

------------------------------------------------------------

"I'm probably leaving..."

"He's not really even planning on living past this week..."

"If Jack lives..."

"..."

UP NEXT:

4-part SEASON FINALE

You, me and everyone

2008-08-21T16:46:00.000-07:00

Nhu Loan: Oh my! we've never been to this nice of a restaurant before!

LTQ: Are you sure you're okay with us joining you?

Minh Tuyet: Oh I-

Aaron: Nonsense, here take a seat.

DTV eagerly heads to LTQ to give him Aaron's recommendations, while Nhu Loan chatted away with Aaron. Minh Tuyet sat there sipping her wine with an annoyed look on her face, it was one of the rarest times she get to be with him privately and peacefully and it's ruined. Nhu Loan turns to Minh Tuyet to find her frowning.

Nhu Loan: What's wrong Tuyet?

Minh Tuyet: Just hungry.

Nhu Loan: Oh.

Aaron: Don't worry, it'll be ready soon.

Nhu Loan: It's such a nice restaurant and since Aaron has such good taste, I'm sure the food will be worth the wait!

LTQ observed as Aaron smiled at the compliment and how Nhu Loan kept smiling back. He's never seen her so happy ever since... a very, very long time ago. Then a tap on the arm broke him free of his thoughts.

DTV: Quang!

LTQ: Huh..What?

DTV: Did you hear what I said?

"Um..No." LTQ replied without looking. His eyes still glued to Loey and Aaron.

DTV: What are you looking at... Aha, see, so you do agree with me, right? The dude got style! Gosh, if I was a girl he's soo mine! Lucky for him I'm not. (laughing)

LTQ scowled and gave DTV a look of annoyance. "What the HECK are you talking about?"

DTV: Aaron.

LTQ rolled his eyes in disbelief. "What's so great about Aaron?" he thought, he edges closer to Nhu Loan and puts his arm around her.

Nhu Loan: Oh Quang, we were discussing how Aaron lives in Paris and how got to saw the Mona Lisa up close! I went there for a study abroad trip in college and never got to see it that close!

LTQ: Sweetie, it's not that great up close-

Nhu Loan: OH! and he owns a vine yard!

Aaron: One of France's finest wine.

LTQ: (mutters) Making wine is not that great, it's just bottled rotten grape juice...

Nhu Loan: What did you say?

DTV: He said making wine is not that great-

LTQ stepped on DTV's feet, stopping him from saying any more, while faking a smile. Just then the waiter came with trays of food on his hand and saved him from the awkward situation.

Minh Tuyet: FINALLY! The food is here. Let's eat and get outa here!

You, me and Vu

2008-08-16T12:51:00.000-07:00

Minh Tuyet was spending more and more time with Aaron these days. They guy who once broke her heart is now here to mend it.

Aaron: You know, last time, our dinner didn't went quite so well so I thought we'd go to a more proper place this time like you would've wanted.

Minh Tuyet: (smiles) Aw. Well this is more like it!

They take a seat near the window, over looking the city. Minh Tuyet gazed at the window before slowly panning her eyes to Aaron, who is looking at the menu. She follows him by opening up her menu.

Minh Tuyet: Wait...it's all french!

Aaron: That's because it's a french restaurant (laughs)

Minh Tuyet: God, at least have an english translation! I bet half of these people here aren't french!

Aaron: (laughs) still the same Tuyet...

Minh Tuyet smiles in embarrassment, Aaron has changed a lot from his old days, once a huge asshole is now a perfect gentleman and her...the same person. I wonder if that's a good thing, she thought, then looked up at Aaron and found him looking at her and their eyes met.

Minh Tuyet: Ahh... what? Is there something on my face?

Minh Tuyet hurriedly pulled out a mirror from her purse and examined her face. She then felt Aaron's hand on hers.

Aaron: No. You look fine. Really.

Waiter: Are you ready to order, Sir?

Aaron: Oh why yes.

He holds up the menu as the waiter bends over to look at what Aaron is pointing at. Minh Tuyet watches as Aaron begins speaking french to the waiter, who nods and scribbles on his pad. She was so entranced with him that she uttered "he's so sexy..." both men looked up.

Aaron: Tuyet, did you say something?

She didn't realized that she had said it out loud and was struggling to find some way to hide it.

Minh Tuyet: Oh I was trying to practice my french...es merci-ah I suck at this.

The snobbish waiter glared at Minh Tuyet as he took the menus and left with his chin up. Aaron turns to face Minh Tuyet.

Minh Tuyet: You have nice eyes...

Aaron was going to reply to her comment but then someone cut in-

"And a very nice body!"

Minh Tuyet: Vu! What are you doing here?!

DTV: Just... dining. Can't a man do something nice for himself every now and then? Hey Aaron. Can I just join you guys. Thanks.

With that said DTV pulled up a seat to the table.

DTV: How DO you do it? I work out every day! Ask Quang. We work out together but none of us get anywhere!

Aaron: Um--I guess... I have a good trainer?

Minh Tuyet: Vu, don't you have something better to do? We're-

DTV seemed to not have heard her. "So, any recommendations as to who I should hire?"

Minh Tuyet rolled her eyes as DTV leans closer as Aaron gives him a list of good trainers. She stares out into the window to find a couple walking hand in hand together, she envies them, after looking at them for a while, she notices something familiar about the two and then it clicked...

"OH MY GOD IT'S QUANG AND LOEY DOWN THERE!"

DTV: Seriously? WHERE?

Aaron: Hey, why don't they come join us?

Minh Tuyet: Um...I don't think-

DTV: I go call them! (Minh Tuyet flashes a glare as Vu takes out his cell)

Take a chance on me

2008-08-08T13:47:00.001-07:00

Nhu Loan kindly thanked the nurse on her way out of the hospital. She was so excited when the doctors gave her the okay to leave and now she is able to go back home. Stopping by for some coffee, Nhu Loan was in high spirits almost to a point where she's practically dancing in the air. She made it to her apartment building and was heading up the stairs when she bumps into a guy, spilling coffee all over herself.

Nhu Loan looked up to see who it was that just ruined what, so far, had been the perfect day. It turns out to be LTQ.

LTQ: OH MY GOD! I am sorry miss, I hope I didn't-LOEY! you're back!

Nhu Loan: Oh, Quang! Hi! Um.. yea, I just checked out this morning. Where you goin'? What's the hurry?

LTQ: I was gonna come visit you.

There was a few minutes of silence.

Nhu Loan: So, um, I'll go change my shirt-

LTQ: Hey, do you wanna get some coffee? I mean right after you change of course.

Nhu Loan: Oh, sure! I'll be right out.

[15 minutes later]

Nhu Loan & LTQ was walking to the coffe shop at the corner of the street when they passed by a magazine stand that was filled with the latest edition of Juicy Magazine.

"Oh crap." LTQ exclaimed as he saw what was on the cover of the magazines. He then turned to the seller and asked, "I want to buy all the Juicy magazines that you have."

Nhu Loan: Quang! Are you crazy? Why do you need that many magazines?

LTQ: I better take care of this before Minh Tuyet comes out and see them. Look.

Nhu Loan looked at the cover, and there was a big picture of Minh Tuyet and LTQ being torn in half, with a headline that says, "No longer in love...career doomed."

Just when LTQ had handed the seller the money and about to take off with the stacks of magazine, they saw Minh Tuyet walking in their direction.

LTQ: Let's go the other way before she sees us!

Nhu Loan: What? Why?

Minh Tuyet: Loey! Hey!

LTQ: Oh Shoot.

Minh Tuyet rushed over to them, looking very content, and then glanced over in disgust at Quang who was holding a huge stack of magazines.

Minh Tuyet: Are you that desperate for money, paperboy?

LTQ: Um...yeah.

Minh Tuyet: Gosh Quang, there are other ways of selling out.

She quickly snatches an issue off the stack before LTQ and Loey can stop her as Minh Tuyet stared at the cover in horror. Nhu Loan and LTQ watched uneasily awaiting for her reaction. She took a deep breath and calmly replied " I guess this is just bad news."

LTQ: Wait, you're not mad?

She rolled up the magazine with great force and turned to him. Smacking him hard on his arm.

Minh Tuyet: OF COURSE I AM! WHY'D YOU THINK I'D DO? FORGET ABOUT IT? THIS IS ALL YOUR FAULT! NOW WHAT AM I GONNA DO?

Before Minh Tuyet can continue on, her phone ranged and she calmly picked it up.

Minh Tuyet: Hello?

Marie: What the hell is going on? I didn't pair you two up so you can mess it up! What about the cd? Now I have to cancel it, all that money poured into it...GONE!

Minh Tuyet: I can assure you, everything will be taken care of.

She hangs up the phone and instantly turns to the frighten LTQ.

Minh Tuyet: THIS IS ALL YOUR FAULT! THIS RELATIONSHIP IS SOOO OVER!

LTQ: What relationship? we barely do anything together.

MInh Tuyet: HELLO? THAT'S WHY IT'S YOUR FAULT! IT WAS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO KEEP THE PUBLICITY GOING TILL THE ALBUM IS FINISHED! BUT NO...ALL YOU WERE WORRIED ABOUT IS BEING WITH LOEY SO YOU CAN IMPRESS HER AND GIVE HINTS THAT YOU LIKE HER-

LTQ glared at her, Minh Tuyet stared in shock at what she just said, she clasp her hands over her mouth. She always talked about wanting to tell Nhu Loan that LTQ likes her but she never really dreamed of actually doing so. Not knowing what to do Minh Tuyet quickly walked away, leaving the two alone. LTQ looked down at his feet, too embarrassed to say anything. Nhu Loan looked at him with relief in her eyes.
---------------------------------------------

Minh Tuyet rush back to her home and stood there for a moment. She felt so wrong about what she said. There was a knock on the door and she peered through the porthole, it's LTQ.

LTQ: It's me, Quang. I want to talk to you.

"Oh shoot, he's here to yell at me...wait you yelled at him...no that's different" she thought, but she thought she'll just face it and opened the door slowly.

Minh Tuyet: Just to let you know, I was not in a good condition when I said that and that whatever comes out of my mouth is mostly gibberish so-

Before she can say anymore, LTQ jumped in and wrapped his arms, she looked puzzled by the action and was wondering if he was trying to pull the same stunt she did earlier.

Minh Tuyet: Um...uh...

LTQ: Oh thank you! thank you! I was so afraid that she won't like me again but it turns out...SHE DID! WHOO HOO! I'm also taking her to Aaron's party!

Minh Tuyet: Um...you're welcome, I guess?

LTQ: Catch you later!

Forgiveness

2008-08-01T11:03:00.000-07:00

Nhu Loan sat on her bed, she insisted that LTQ rest at his home since he was growing dark circles instantly, which she can't bare to look. But now she's starting to regret it. Being alone in an empty room was not a way to make her feel better. She looked over the spot where LTQ sat beside her, and it made her even more aware of her solitary confinement in the hospital room. She wanted him here, she needed him here. She suddenly felt guilty--and maybe a sense of disgust--at herself. Jimmy was dead and it troubled her. Nhu Loan was interrupted with her train of thoughts when she heard a knock on the door. She turned eagerly to the door.

Nhu Loan (whisper): Quang!

Bang Kieu slowly poked his head in. Nhu Loan's smile loosen and she laid back down in disappointment. Bang Kieu walked over to her, making sure to keep his distance, she avoided any contact.

Bang Kieu: I...uh...brought you flowers. Um...let me put them in water for you.

Nhu Loan: Thanks. (glaring at the window)

Bang Kieu: I should leave you alone.

Nhu Loan: Bye.

He was about to head for the door when he turned around.

Bang Kieu: I just wanna say that I'm sorry for what I said and did to you.

Nhu Loan: Ok.

Bang Kieu: I know you're still mad at me, that's fine. Beckham's mad at me too.

Nhu Loan: Why would he?

Bang Kieu: I sent him away.

Nhu Loan: You sent the boy away!? Where to?

Bang Kieu: He's gone to somewhere safe. It was for the best. God, I do miss him already.

Nhu Loan slowly turned around to face him. She had never seen him so sad.

Nhu Loan: You'll see him again... right?

Bang Kieu made no reply. He slowly turns around and headed for the door. "I hope you'll recover soon."

Nhu Loan was fighting inside--a battle of her pride and sympathies. She wanted to say something. She wanted to ask him more about Beckham, she wanted to ask him to stay--not just because she needed company but also because she wanted to, more than ever, to say she's forgiven him. But just before she was going to say any of these things, Bang Kieu stopped on his way to the door and spoke.

"I know you own me nothing and I'm in no position to ask anything from you, but ... should anything happens to me, take care of Beckham for me, okay?" With that said, he left.

******************************************************************************

It has been 48 hours since LTQ actually had some decent sleep. He was reluctant to leave Loey behind but after she insisted, he went home and did just that. For the next few days LTQ has spent it in bed, snoring loudly while sprawled across his bed. Smacking his mouth, he rolled over on his side-

Minh Tuyet: GAAH!!!!

LTQ's eyes were wide open to find himself hugging Minh Tuyet's arm, he stares at her fingers in shock only to find himself being smacked by it.

LTQ: What are you doing here? How in the hell you get in?

Minh Tuyet: Let go of my hand first!

LTQ: Oh...How'd you break in? You broke my door didn't you?

Minh Tuyet: Hello...you gave everyone a copy just in case you lost yours, idiot!

LTQ: Oh, so why are you here?

Minh Tuyet: Can't I come visit you?

LTQ: You want something don't you?

Minh Tuyet: No. I called Loey and she said she was worried about you and was wondering if you were getting enough sleep.

LTQ: She did? What else did she say? Did she say anything else about me?

Minh Tuyet: She said...(pause) you really like her don't you?

LTQ: NO! that's...absurd, it's like liking your sister or something...psh. Tuh!

Minh Tuyet: I knew it! Quang's in love with his high school sweat heart yet again!

LTQ: SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP!

Minh Tuyet: (gasp) I should tell Loey the good news!

LTQ: YOU TELL HER AND I'LL KILL YOU!

Fight or Flee

2008-07-29T09:35:00.001-07:00

Bang Kieu sat on the edge of his bed, polishing his gun. He was so lost in his thoughts that he didn't noticed his son standing by the door.

Beckham: Daddy, what you doin'?

Bang Kieu: Nothing Son. Just cleaning-Why are you up this late?

Beckham: Me dream bad.

Bang Kieu: Another one? (groans) What have you been watching lately...

Beckham: Bad boys! Bad boys! wa-chu-go-

Bang Kieu: Argh... now I'm gonna have to shoot Vu.

Beckham: Shoe?

Bang Kieu: Never mind son.

After tucking his child in and staying till Beckham felt safe to doze off, he walked back to his room and pulled out his gun. As he loaded the bullets in, he began to realize the danger he's putting his son in. And everyone else, too. Then Nguyen Hung's words began to replay in his mind "you've got to think about Beckham..." He knows what he must do yet he doesn't want to go through with it. After sitting there, thinking it over, he held up his cell phone and dialed the number.

Bang Kieu: Hello? It's me...Yes I'm still alive. Look, I know I haven't talked to you in a long time but I have to ask you for a favor...
-----------------------------------------

It was rather crowded at the airport, mostly tourist coming in to see the sights and the next upcoming events happening in the city. Bang Kieu sat next to his son while a bodyguard is in line to check in for them. Beckham crossed his arms and avoided contact with his dad.

Bang Kieu: Beckham...it's not gonna be that bad, son.

Beckham: (nose flaring)

Bang Kieu: It's safer this way....

Beckham: Daddy want Beckham leave friends back. No Auntie Tweet or Loey or Uncle Quangy.

Bodyguard: Sir, we are ready to board now.

Bang Kieu: Come on Beckham (offering his hand)

Beckham: Beckham walk lonely.

Bang Kieu let out a huge sigh, he didn't want this to happen but he knew that it's his only choice, how is he gonna protect his child and fight Jack at the same time? He helped the bodyguard with the luggage as they made their way down the terminal.

Bang Kieu: Do you think I made the right decision?

Bodyguard: Yes, sir. It's too dangerous here.

Bang Kieu: Yeah...Fight or flee right? (laughs)

An Invitation

2008-07-24T12:27:00.001-07:00

"Is she okay?" Minh Tuyet asked, this time with an actual hint of concern in her voice.

"Define okay." DTV said. "Well, I think she woke up just now 'cuz I hear talking. LTQ's with her now."

Minh Tuyet: Oh... well I'll stop by the hospital in the morning. If I'm not dead by then already.

DTV: Don't say that-

Minh Tuyet: What makes you so sure? Who knows, there might be someone right outside my house plotting to kill me!

DTV: But my men is over there. You'll be fine.

Minh Tuyet: But- Who's that at the door? Hold on, Vu.

DTV: Whatever you do, don't talk to strangers!

Minh Tuyet rolled her eyes at what he just said. She then went to the windows. Aaron was in front of the house, being confronted by the guards. She quickly went down there to sort things out.

"I know him. You can let him in."

"DTV said no visitors. No exceptions."

"What? But I know this guy. Well, your boss is on the phone, Vu said to let him in."

Aaron looked confused. "What's going on, Tuyet? Since when did you need this many guards and who's-"

Minh Tuyet yelled into the phone: VU! TELL HIM TO LET YOUR MEN IN!

DTV: You can't just let people in! Hold on, I'll be there right away.

Minh Tuyet: What-?
-----------------------------------
[an hour later]

Minh Tuyet: AN HOUR! I would've made it here faster if I walked!

DTV: Hey, it's not my fault! Ever heard of a thing called traffic? Well--lookie here, who's he?

Minh Tuyet: A friend.

DTV gave Aaron a look and said, "Weapons search."

Minh Tuyet: Naw, that's ridiculous! I know him, just let him in or I'll-

DTV: Geez, fine...let him in but just to let you know, I have a gun with me... cuz I'm cool like that!

"Dork!" Minh Tuyet murmured under her breath.

The guards made room for Aaron to pass and he follows the two inside. DTV disappears into the kitchen as Minh Tuyet and Aaron takes a seat on the couch across from each other.

"Sorry about that." Minh Tuyet said.

"It's alright." Aaron. "I actually came to say what I wanted to say at the diner...before you and Loey got stuck in your..situation."

Minh Tuyet opened her mouth to say something but Aaron stopped her. "No need to tell me what it is. I'm just here to say that I'll leaving the city in a week-"

"Tea and crumpets, anyone?" DTV shouted loudly as he reappears holding an antique silver tray filled with the freshly brewed tea and the little cakes piled neatly on top of each other. He places the tray on the coffee table and scoots himself next to Minh Tuyet, who stared at him with great annoyance.

DTV: So, do you work out?

"Oh my god" Minh Tuyet said, smacking her hand against her forehead.

Aaron: Uh...Yeah.

DTV: Oh that's cool...Hey how you get your face to look so youthful and pimple-free?

Minh Tuyet: So Aaron, what were you saying earlier before someone came with tea and crumpets!

DTV makes a face at her as he takes a sip of tea.

Aaron: Oh well, there is fancy party that my company is throwing and I know it'll be boring but I was hoping you'd like to come along as...um...my date-

Minh Tuyet: I'd love to!

Aaron: Really? Well you're friends can come along too.

DTV: Can I?

Minh Tuyet: Who says you're going?

Aaron: I really have to go now, been busy for the past few days. Thanks for the tea and crumpets.

He waves good bye to them as he heads out the door. Minh Tuyet watches him leave until he's no longer there, then instantly turns to Vu.

DTV: What?

Minh Tuyet: Are you gay?

Alive

2008-07-19T15:48:00.000-07:00

Just when Nhu Loan thought her lungs would give out and her brain would explode, the grips on her head and shoulder loosened and her face encountered air. She gasped desperately for it. Next thing she know, someone pulled her out of the water. From the feel of the hand she knew it was a guy.

"Loey? Stay with me! No! No!"

Those were the last words she heard before she went unconcious.
------------------------

When she woke up, Nhu Loan found herself lying on a hospital bed. And sitting on the side of the bed was LTQ.

She tried to recall what happened and tried to pierce the pieces of blurred memories she had of the previous night together. She was drowning... someone came... I was at Jimmy's, she thought... Jimmy... dead. Her brain couldn't take it. No matter how she tried she couldn't grasp the fact that he was dead. Just like that. An hour or two after he and DTV had just saved her life, he died. How? Why?

No. It's not possible. She thought.

"Oh, you're up." LTQ said sleepily as he lifted his head from the bed.

Nhu Loan made no reply.

LTQ searched for something to say to break the awkward silence. "How do you feel?"

Nhu Loan: Jimmy. He's dead...

LTQ: Yes, about that... I'm sorry, Loey. There wasn't anything we could've done about it.

Nhu Loan felt drops of tear rolling down her face. Without being able to hold it back, she started crying.
------------------------------------

After several hours of crying, Nhu Loan was finally able to pull herself together. "How did you find me?" She asked, her voice hoarse.

"You left your purse at Nguyen Hung's place and DTV overheard your conversation with Jimmy so he pointed me there. Thank god I got there in time..." It seemed like he wanted to say something more but finally decided not to.

"Was it Jack's men?"

"I'm not sure... he died and I rushed to the hospital. Turns out what I should've done instead is give you CPR. Wait any longer and your life would be in serious danger. Ah. I was so stupid."

"So...you killed the guy?"

LTQ acted as if he didn't hear the question. "The important thing is that you're safe now."

No one said anything for awhile. LTQ finally decided to leave to get Nhu Loan something to eat or drink.

"No, don't leave just yet." Nhu Loan said. After all that happened, she couldn't bare the thought of being by herself again, even just for a few minutes.

He hesitated for a minute, then slowly sat down again. "Alright," he said, "I'll stay."

Shocked

2008-07-17T10:36:00.000-07:00

After the others had left, Bang Kieu stayed and talked to Nguyen Hung. He didn't like the idea of leaving Mason City at all. He grew up here. His whole life had been centered around this city.

Nguyen Hung: Kieu, I know how much you love the city and your life here. Such rich history. But you've got to think about Beckham. About your friends. You know that if you stayed behind, Jack's gonna get you sooner or later, and then who knows, he'll find a way to your friends.

Bang Kieu: Is there no alternative? Can't we just leave for some time and come back later when everything settle down?

Nguyen Hung: For the others, maybe. But for you... do you think he'll really let you go? That things will just settle down? When I say you've got to leave, I mean leaving permantly. Leaving your life, your name, your career and never returning. If not, then you're not leaving at all.

Bang Kieu made no reply for a moment. He scratched his head in frustration, hoping that it will help him think, somehow. He finally gave up, throwing his hand in the air. "Whatever, screw the guy! I'll blow his brains out. I am not leaving."

For a split second, Bang Kieu swore he saw something that resembled a smile on Nguyen Hung's face.

"You know, that's not a bad option..."

--------------------------

Minh Tuyet and LTQ stood outside and exchanged a few words with DTV. What was meant to be a 1 minute conversation turned into a much longer one.

Minh Tuyet: God, why does this have to happen to me? My career's the only thing I have but then I-LOVE-my-life!

LTQ: STOP WHINNING! You're not the only one.

Minh Tuyet: Why does it matter to you? You got drafted. You're leaving anyways.

DTV: Oh yea, I forgot. Quang, about the drafting thing. I have my men to check on it. It's a mistake. You're not drafted.

LTQ: What?... Are you sure?

DTV: Yep. Certain of it.

LTQ: So all that training and shopping and getting prepared was for nothing?

Minh Tuyet: You stop whinning! You spent like a day or two getting prepare!

DTV: Well, on the bright side, you guys are now stuck in the same situation.

The two continued on arguing. Their situation had improved their reactions towards each other.

--------------------------

Nhu Loan stood in front of Jimmy's house. Something wasn't right. At the sight of his unlocked door, her instinct told her to run back to the cab and leave, but she couldn't. What if something happened to Jimmy and she could have stopped it?

She walked silently down the hall, towards the kitchen. There she saw a scene she'll never forget. There were two men in the kitchen. One was a tall man dressed in all black with blood all over his shirt and face. The other was lying on the floor, with his cold, lifeless eyes staring at Nhu Loan. She only know this man too well. Jimmy.

Her body seemed to have frozen right on the spot. Run, Loey! RUN! She told herself. But her body didn't listen to her anymore. She just stood there, wide-eyed and frozen to the ground--that is, until the man dressed in black turned around and realizes her presence.

As he made a sprint for her, she ran for her life. He chased her to the pool, where Nhu Loan lost her step and fell into the water. The man jumped in after her. He grabbed her violently, and with all his might, pushed her down and submerged her under the water.

Nhu Loan tried to scream but what sound could come out now that she is under water? The more she struggled for her life, the further away it seemed.

Warned

2008-07-10T08:27:00.001-07:00

Nhu Loan and Minh Tuyet still felt somewhat numb about what just happen to them. For once more time, death had almost found its way to them. Now DTV is taking them back to his boss' place, the safest place for them now.

Minh Tuyet's phone suddenly went off, breaking off the silence. "Aaron! Oh, I'm so sorry. Yes, see... hm... there was an emergency. Hm... we were stuck in a ...situation..?"

Everyone in the car rolled their eyes at her.

"Well, it was...like I said, we were very much stuck in a ... situation."

"Oh. Um... we're at ... Loey's place.... What? No, you can't come over... because... we're leaving."

"Where to? Look... [sighs] I'll just call you back."

With that said, Minh Tuyet hung up.

DTV: You are the worst liar on earth.

Minh Tuyet: Hey! You try and get almost-killed by some strangers in the bathroom in a very awkward position and then 5 minutes later, try and lie about it!

That was as far as the conversation got. Everything felt choppy and awkward and...unfinnished.
----------------------------

When they arrived at Nguyen Hung's place, LTQ, Bang Kieu as well as little Beckham was already there. Nhu Loan and Bang Kieu was still avoiding each other. They couldn't even look at the other without starting up a fight.

After DTV persuaded Beckham to stay and "play" with his men, he led them to the living room, where Nguyen Hung was waiting for them. He seemed like a statue. Sitting there, wearing his white suit, he sort of blended in with the colorless room. His face was pale.

He wasted no time and jumped to the point. "After you guys got back from Korea, I sent my men to do some investigation like Kieu requested. And he was right, Jack's the guy behind it. I saw him leaving an abandoned warehouse this morning after some meeting. It seems that he was hiring some high-class hitman. He truly wants you four dead."

Minh Tuyet: You think we don't know that already? I almost got killed just an hour ago!

Nguyen Hung: Exactly my point. You guys have got to get out of the city as soon as possible. If it was any other hitman I wouldn't care less but this guy... I know him, seen his work. Something you wouldn't want to get involved in. Look, I know some men outside of Mason that could be trusted. They'll help you find a place to settle, find a job, get a new name, get a new life.

The four looked at him like he was crazy.

Bang Kieu: Hold on a minute, Hung. You want us to leave? Now?

Nguyen Hung: Trust me, you guys want to leave.

Bang Kieu: It's not that easy making four well-known celebrities dissapear in a matter of days.

Nhu Loan: He said he could... He's Nguyen Hung. He could-

Bang Kieu: Oh shut up! Like you know anything. It's just not possible.

Nhu Loan was going to say something back when her phone interrupted. It was Jimmy calling.
"Excuse me, my boyfriend is calling me!" She said and walked out of the room.

Nguyen Hung, again, wasted no time and continued on the conversation. "Trust me, it is possible. I've done it before. Remember Mr. To?"

Bang Kieu: He's.. alive?

Nguyen Hung nodded. "Yep. Alive and well. Now you know it can be done, what's your answer?"

LTQ: Honestly, you expect us to come up with the answer in a few minutes?

Nguyen Hung: As soon as possible.

Heroes to the Rescue

2008-07-07T11:56:00.000-07:00

Nhu Loan scoot herself forward to avoid Ed and quickly dialed Minh Tuyet. She heard a loud "Hello" right next her and turns her head to the side to find an annoyed Tuyet rolling her eyes. Minh Tuyet was sitting right next to her.

Minh Tuyet: What? Why in the world are you here?

Nhu Loan: No time to explain. I need to talk to you.

Aaron: Hi Loey.

Before Nhu Loan can acknowledge him, Minh Tuyet cut in: shut up Aaron, only her friends can call her that.

Nhu Loan: Tuyet, Can I see you in the bathroom? It's urgent!

Minh Tuyet: Can it wait? I haven't finished my-

Nhu Loan: JUST GO WITH ME!

Nhu Loan grabs Minh Tuyet and drags her to the bathroom. On her way, she glances back to find Carl staring at her.

Nhu Loan: Oh Shoot! We're dead!

Minh Tuyet: What?

Carl turns to Ed, asking: That's the girl isn't it?

Ed said nothing at first, but merely stood up and place his hand inside his jacket, the place where he keeps his knife, and walked towards the bathroom.

"That's our girls."

------------------------------

Minh Tuyet: Loey, What is wrong with you? If this is about Kieu then-

Loey: LISTEN! There are two guys who work for Jack that was sitting behind me and I over heard them plotting to kill us and not just us, all of us.

Minh Tuyet: Oh...

Loey: One of the guys saw me...well, us, going into the bathroom.

Minh Tuyet: Great! We basically walked into our deathbeds.

The door begins to open slowly and both ladies clutched each other in fear. A man's hands emerged, in his hands was a pocket knife that flicked open instantly. Minh Tuyet kicked the door shut, crushing his hands. The man screamed in pain as the knife fell instantly to the floor, Minh Tuyet grabbed it and rushed over to Nhu Loan's side.

Minh Tuyet: What do we do?

Nhu Loan: (Looks around): The window!

She climbs on the sink and squeezes out the window with ease, Minh Tuyet had a hard time climbing on the windows and even though with the help of Nhu Loan, she couldn't seem to get out.

Minh Tuyet: Damn it! Stupid hips! Pull harder!

Nhu Loan: I am!

Carl: Look! One of them still here.

Minh Tuyet (cries): Ah! Loey I'm gonna die! Why couldn't Aaron take me to that French restaurant so I can at least die dignified...wait...Ah, I don't want to die!

Ed: I got this one, go out and get the other girl.

Minh Tuyet starts kicking her legs as she whines, as Ed got closer he suddenly got poked in the eye by her spiked heel. Followed by a series of kicks in the face and one blow in the stomach. Ed kneeled down groaning.

Minh Tuyet: Aw man Loey, whatever happens to me, make sure my clothes aren't donated to Charity...especially the couture ones.

Nhu Loan:No you won't, I just text Jimmy, he'll be in any second.

Just as his name was mentioned, Jimmy came and grabbed Ed, kneeing Ed multiple times in the stomach.

Minh Tuyet: But Jimmy's a puny guy!

Nhu Loan: Hey! He's my boyfriend. Anyways, I texted Vu and his men.

Minh Tuyet: Why not Kieu? (Cold stare from Loey) Oh yeah forgot.

Out of nowhere, DTV enters the bathroom announcing his arrival. The puzzled Ed stares as Jimmy takes a strike on the head.

DTV: Don't worry Jimbo, I got this taken care of.

He took a step forward only to be pulled back by Carl, who came back after seeing DTV and his men enter the parking lot.

Jimmy: What do we do now?

DTV: Oh I have a gun! (takes it out and begins firing only to find the barrel empty)

Jimmy: No bullets?

DTV: I was in a rush!

Carl picks up a garbage can and knocks DTV in the head. He collapses on the floor without another movement. Carl didn't hesitate to move on to Jimmy, who just knocked out Ed. Carl approaches Jimmy from behind just as Ed crumbles to the floor. They both fought as Nhu Loan attempts to get Minh Tuyet out using lotion from her purse.

Minh Tuyet: You do know this is my favorite black dress right?

Nhu Loan: Oh-come-on Tuyet, How many of them you have in your closet?

Minh Tuyet: Shut up.

Vu grunts lightly as he regained conscious again. He sees a knife lying on the floor and crawls over to pick it up. With a flick of the wrist, the blade pops open and Vu creeps slowly behind Carl just as he's kicking the heck out of Jimmy. Vu taps Carl on the shoulder. He turned around to find Vu punching him in the face. Carl spun around, facing Vu. With a quick swift, Vu jabs the knife into Carl's heart. It didn't take long before Carl fell to the floor, dead. Vu and Jimmy breathed a sigh of relief.

Minh Tuyet: Are they finished?

Vu: Yep.

Minh Tuyet: Then what are you doing standing around, help us out!

Jimmy: Alright, I got this side, you get the other.

The two pushed Minh Tuyet's body forward, they can feel her body moving forward by inches along with cries of pain. They thought they succeeded in trying to squeeze her hips through the window when they hear faint sounds but it turns out there were no signs of movement.

Suddenly, Ed popped up behind them, the two jumped at once with Minh Tuyet finally slipping through the window with a loud scream followed by a thud. The girls peered through the window to find the two guys battling against the furious Ed with no luck. In a desperate attempt to help the boys, they began throwing things out of their purses as distraction which worked when Ed felt something hit the back of his head and smashed in to the ground. He turns toward them with a look of fury, he approaches the girls quickly. Minh Tuyet pulled out a purse spray and squirts expensive perfume into his eyes. Blinded for a few seconds, he backed away bumping into the clumsy Vu.

Nhu Loan: Throw him into the toilet.

DTV: But it's filthy!

Minh Tuyet: It's not like you're going in.

Vu grasp Ed by his jacket and quickly dunks Ed head first into the toilet bowl. Sounds of gurgling and spattering came from Ed as he waves his arms frantically, grasping the sides of the bowl. Vu presses the helpless man deeper into the toilet. Jimmy and the girls joined him as they watched Ed struggle. After a few minutes, the arms slowly fell limp at his sides and his body relaxed.

Jimmy: Whoa, that was fast, the water wasn't that deep enough to drown him that soon.

Nhu Loan: Suffocation?

Minh Tuyet: I just hope he rots in hell.

DTV: Whatever, guys we gotta leave or else the police will get us.

Death for dinner

2008-06-27T21:47:00.001-07:00

Nhu Loan: Aw thank you Jimmy. Just what I needed, burgers and fries with my love.

Jimmy: No problem darling. Man, didn't know Kieu would hit you like that. It's so unlike-

Nhu Loan: Let's not talk about it. I want to just concentrate on us right now.

Jimmy: Well, what about us?

Two men entered the diner, they took a seat at a table behind Nhu Loan and her boyfriend.

Man #1: So Ed, have they contacted you yet?

Ed: No. I'm surprised they haven't talked to you, Carl.

Carl: Seems like this is taking forever.

Ed: Yeah.

****

Waitress: Good evening, May I take your order?

Jimmy: Oh well you go first.

Nhu Loan: Oh...well, I'll like to have the grilled chicken-make sure it's grilled not deep fried- along with collard greens and a salad.

Waitress: Drink?

Nhu Loan: Ice tea.

Waitress: And you sir?

Jimmy: I'll have today's special, the whole meal and a coke.

Waitress: Alright your order would be ready in a few minutes.
--------------------------------------

Minh Tuyet: I don't understand why you would bring me to a dump like this.

Aaron: Don't you remember this place? It was the last time we ever saw each other.

Minh Tuyet: Exactly, and the next day you didn't show up, so technically, this is a dump. Besides, this place looks cheap and sells cheap foods.

Aaron: What's the matter Tuyet, this place is comforting and it's comforting being around you.

Minh Tuyet: Looks to me like you're trying to save money on a date.

Aaron: Who said it was a date? We're just hanging out as friends.

Minh Tuyet: Sure...

Waitress: Good Evening, may I take your order?

Minh Tuyet: What's the most expensive meal on the menu?

Waitress: Uh...the new york steak which is $20.00.

Minh Tuyet: Great! I'll have that with a lemonade please.

Waitress: And what will you be having sir?

Aaron: I'll have the macaroni and cheese along with some alphabet soup. Oh and a strawberry milkshake.

Waitress: Okay, I'll be back with your meals. (grabs menus and leave)

Minh Tuyet: What are you...five?

After a few minutes, the waitress had given Nhu Loan and Jimmy's meals after stopping by Carl and Ed's table to deliver their meals. While eating, the couple dived into conversation, they talked about their interest and what's going with world.

Jimmy: I can't believe our president is stupid enough to issue one.

Nhu Loan: I know! Aw...poor Quang got drafted.

Jimmy: He did?

Nhu Loan: Yeah. It scared the living daylights of him. The guy spends most of his time on the rocking chair sucking his thumb now.
----------------------------
Ed: Aw man, I'm stuffed.

Carl: yeah...ordered too much.

Ed pushes his seat back away to pat on his belly. As Nhu Loan reaches for her iced tea, she felt a slight bump behind her. Ed didn't seem to take in any consideration for what he just did and Nhu Loan didn't dare to say anything, so she just sipped her ice tea in frustration. Jimmy excuses himself to the bathroom.

Carl: So What's the plan again?

Ed: How many times I gotta tell you, Jack said to take them down one by one.

Carl: Which one did we get?

Ed: The two girls.

Carl: The ones on Paris By Night right?

Nhu Loan gasped as she heard the next four words or so that came out of the man's mouth: "Man Tweet and New Loans. Yep we're finishing them off."

Uncle Sam says Hello!

2008-06-20T19:57:00.000-07:00

"Today, The president has issued an official draft. Citizens who will receive their letter in the mail must report to boot camp as stated in the letter. This is Chuck O' Deer reporting and good luck to our soldiers."

LTQ(laughs): Hell yeah they need it, they're off to die!

Nhu Loan: Don't say that, Quang! That's rude, these people are heroes!

DTV: Well, it is kinda like walking towards your own death. I feel sorry for the ones who got drafted.

Nhu Loan: What if you were one of them?

DTV: I'm not, checked my mail today, NADA! By the way, Where's Tuyet?

LTQ: Oh she had to get her hair done, so I said to her, "you might as well pick up my mail."

Nhu Loan: Darn, if I knew she was gettin' her hair done, I would've tag along. Got a date tonight...

DTV: Anyways, so she's gettin her hair done at your house?

LTQ: No, but she can walk over there when she's done with the hair thing.

Nhu Loan: But it's YOUR mail...

LTQ: That's what girlfriends do for their love ones.

DTV: Dude! Nice!

Nhu Loan: (groans)

LTQ: Yep, yep, yep, I'm milking this till it all ends.

Minh Tuyet drags her feet towards the cafe', She looked like she had run a mile and was overly dressed for it. Her stiletto heels made scratching sounds on the ground as she slides toward her friends.

Minh Tuyet: QUANG! If this is the way you treat a girl then I have no hope for you when you do find one!

LTQ: I don't know what you are talking about sweetie.

Minh Tuyet: YOU LEFT ME WITHOUT A TRANSPORTATION! After I finished my hair, I went out only to find a post-it note saying "meet me at my place" So...I walked over to your place only to find another note saying "Sorry, left already...you can take the bus to DTV's. P.S.: Also, bring my mail." ARE YOU KIDDING ME? THE BUS?

DTV: So did you take the bus?

Minh Tuyet: NO!

LTQ: Probably doesn't know how to!

Minh Tuyet: So I walked my way here and now I just killed my feet! I gotta sit down!

She rummage through her purse and begins pulling out her make up and a hair brush. She holds up a compact and examines herself in disgust.

Minh Tuyet: (ugh) My hair is ruined!

LTQ: And today's lesson here is, kids...what's the use of doing your hair when it's gonna be messed up anyways...by the way, my mail?

Minh Tuyet smacks him in the head with his mail and left to the bathroom, leaving LTQ to quickly scans through his mail.

"Oh no," LTQ mumbles.

DTV: What's wrong?
----------------------------

While she was trying to fix her hair to restore it to the way it was an hour ago, before all the running and hard work, Minh Tuyet's phone went off.

"Tuyet? It's Aaron! How you been?"

"Uh... Great!"

"Can we meet tonight for dinner? I'll pick you up at 8."

"Why would I meet with you?"

"Can't two old friends just chat?"

"Fine."

Leave me alone

2008-06-13T12:11:00.000-07:00

Bang Kieu: You think it's that easy to just apologize and I forget everything? NO!

Nhu Loan: SO WHAT DO YOU WANT FROM ME? I'M ALWAYS THE ONE TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR SON.

Bang Kieu: Because that's what friends do for other friends!

Nhu Loan: Have you ever thought about what your friends really want? You come knocking down our doors expecting us to accept your baby boy and everything is all peachy. That little devil has put us through hell!

LTQ: Literally...

Bang Kieu: SHUT UP! Don't you talk about my son that way.

Nhu Loan: That's all you care about! It's just you and your stupid son!

Bang Kieu grew so angry that he slapped Loey in in the face. Everyone grew silent as Nhu Loan raised her hand against her right cheek. Her shocked face turned into a cold stare as she headed out the door.

LTQ: Wait Loey!

Minh Tuyet: Aw Kieu! You didn't mean that! Take it back!

Bang Kieu stared at Nhu Loan walking off, he clenched his fist and gritted his teeth as both LTQ and Minh Tuyet followed Nhu Loan out the house. He stood there full of rage but then he caught a glimpse of little Beckham's face full of fear as he hid behind a wall peering out. He called out for Beckham but the little kid only ran upstairs and slammed the door. Bang Kieu collapsed on his knees realizing what he's done with DTV crawling up to him and putting his hand over Bang Kieu's shoulder.

LTQ: Aw Loey please don't leave like this, you know Kieu loves ya.

Minh Tuyet: RIGHT! You know how ex-gangsters are...full of rage. I mean when I first start dating him, he would throw stuff around and smash things! Of course he was in a rock band that time but-

LTQ: Not helping!

Nhu Loan: Enough! I've had it with him. I want to go home!

LTQ: I can drive you, Tuyet you should stay with Kieu.
***************************************************************************
LTQ and Nhu Loan arrived at the apartment building, she's more calm now after having a long comforting talk with LTQ in the car. He walked her up the steps to her apartment, before Nhu Loan opens her door, she hugs him whispering thank you to his ear. A warm sensation came over him and he couldn't help hold his feeling inside.

LTQ: I love you Loey

Nhu Loan: That's sweet Quang.

LTQ: No really, I'm in love with you, I've always have and every time I see you I get goose bumps and this feeling in my stomach....I want to be with you....hold your hand...sleep with you...uh

Nhu Loan: What? What are you talking about?

LTQ: Like in love as in boyfriend and girlfriend...kissy kissy kind of thing

Nhu Loan: No Quang, I love you but not like that! What were you thinking? What's wrong with you! I don't love you like that okay!

LTQ: You didn't have to get mad about it...

Nhu Loan: Oh so now the blames on me? Great! Everybody wants something from Loey like I'm some fruit tree!

LTQ: Wait! I-I didn't mean what I said...I mean it was stupid and-

Nhu Loan: Shut it, I'm tired of this-

LTQ: LOEY!

Nhu Loan: LEAVE-ME-ALONE!

She slams the door in front of his face, LTQ can hear her slipping locking the doors and slipping on the chains followed by loud stomps. He stood there listening as her stomps fade away, he slide his feet across the floor with his head held down making his way back to his apartment.

Here's my Beckham!

2008-05-23T21:49:00.000-07:00

LTQ: What the hell is he doing in there?

Minh Tuyet: Well it's obvious what he's doing...he's getting-

Nhu Loan: Why not just sneak in through the back door-

LTQ: Uh...that would be breaking in.

Nhu Loan: Who cares! It's just Vu!

She was the first to run to the side of the house of the building, she gathered a bunch of sturdy boxes and garbage cans enough to get her over. Nhu Loan hoped over the fence with great ease leaving LTQ and Minh Tuyet behind.

LTQ: I'm next!

Minh Tuyet: Hey! What happen to ladies first?

LTQ prepared to climbed up but Minh Tuyet shoved him away refusing to be the last person left behind, resulting in the two standing on top of the unstable trash cans which can't support two people at a time.

LTQ: You get off!

Minh Tuyet: Why don't you!

LTQ: Why don't you? You're the heaviest one!

Minh Tuyet: And you wonder why you are single

LTQ: Back at you babe.

The two begin shifting their weight at the same time, attempting to make a move when suddenly the trash cans give in and collapsed in a clutter; leaving the two hanging on the fence.

Minh Tuyet: Great! Now we are stuck...what can happen next?

LTQ: Um...Bang Kieu standing behind us.

Minh Tuyet turned her head around to catch a glimpse of the confused Bang Kieu standing in front of them.

Bang Kieu: What the hell are you guys doing? And where's Loey? I can't find her or Beckham at her apartment and neither at your places but I see why.

Minh Tuyet: Well...there's a perfect explanation for this.

Bang Kieu: Is this supposed to be one of your publicity stunts? Marie has gone a little too far...

There are sounds of the gate unlocking and the door opens.

Nhu Loan: Guys! What's taking you two so long? Beckham is hurting Vu inside!

Bang Kieu: Beckham?

Nhu Loan: (Quietly) Shit! KIEU! You're here!

Bang Kieu helps LTQ and Minh Tuyet down before pushing the gate door open and rushing followed by Nhu Loan, LTQ and Minh Tuyet. The four rushed to the back, with Bang Kieu opening the backdoor immediately to find himself in Vu's kitchen, all messy with DTV covered in melted ice cream and screaming in pain as Beckham jumps on top of him.

Bang Kieu: BECKHAM!!!!

Beckham: (stops jumping) Uh...oh...

DTV: (groans) Aw...this is the thanks I get for picking up a lost kid...

Bang Kieu: What? lost? Loey!!! (turns to Loey)

Nhu Loan: Um....yeah. It was an accident, I was picking up my dry cleaning and he must have run-

Bang Kieu: WHAT-IN-THE-HELL? I DON'T CARE! I TRUSTED YOU! I was counting on you to take care of him and out of everyone I know, you are the most responsible one and failed miserably than Quang and Tuyet!

LTQ: Hey I find that insulting. (Minh Tuyet elbows him)

Nhu Loan: (breaking down to tears) I'm sorry...

Finding Beckham

2008-05-10T01:10:00.000-07:00

LTQ: Oh OW Loey, that hurts (rubbing his arm)

Nhu Loan: Then tell me where he is!

LTQ: Ow, stop pinching me! I don't know.

Nhu Loan: I know about the ice cream thing!

LTQ: Yeah I gave him ice cream, so what?

Nhu Loan searched LTQ's apartment everywhere thinking Beckham was just hiding.

LTQ: Are you looking for ice cream? cuz Beckham ate it all.

Nhu Loan: No I'm looking for Beckham!

LTQ: Oh then he's not here.

Nhu Loan: WHAT? But-but you gave him ice cream at the parlor and-and the owner said that you took him back to your house...

LTQ: I have no idea what you are talking about, Kieu stormed off saying he's gonna drop Beck at your place...he didn't stop at your place?

Nhu Loan: He did! and now I'm screwed because I lost his son!

LTQ: Uh-oh

Nhu Loan buried her face into her hands, she took in three deep breaths but they don't seem to help as much as her heart rate still kept going up. To make matters worse, her cell phone rang, she looked at the caller I.D.

Nhu Loan: Oh no...(holds phone up to her ears) Hey Bang Kieu!

Bang Kieu: Aw man I can't believe all the flights are cancelled due to bad weather...so I guess I'll come back for a while to take Beckham off your hands and you can resume baby-sitting him when I leave the next day...oh by the way where is the little bugger, I want to speak to him-

Nhu Loan: Oh he's asleep...more like lost in his dreams.

Bang Kieu: Well don't let him sleep too long, don't want to be all jumpy at night. I'll be there in an hour.

Nhu Loan: Oh wait-

Bang Kieu: See ya later Loey! (hangs up)

Nhu Loan: Oh gosh, what am I going to do? Wait...Quang! Come with me and call Tuyet too!

LTQ: Why do I gotta call her?

Nhu Loan: She is your girlfriend!

LTQ: (Groans)

****************************************************************************

Minh Tuyet: Now I don't see why this has to do with me, he was your responsibility Loey! and why are we at Vu's house?

Nhu Loan: Well Vu has people who can help us find Beckham easier and besides that's what friends are for!

LTQ: Wouldn't the police be better at this?

Nhu Loan: No! the police will make it public and then Kieu will find out! Now remember to tell me to get a stripper for Vu's next birthday

Nhu Loan turns around and gently presses the doorbell button. Prepping herself up and wearing a huge smile on her face, they waited for an answer but so far there's nothing but dead silence.

Nhu Loan: (laughs) Maybe I pressed it too gently

She presses it more firmly this time but after an awkward moment of silence with DTV still not coming. She grows rather impatient and starts pressing the button repeatedly.

Nhu Loan: GOD! DOESN'T ANYONE ANSWERS THEIR DOOR?

LTQ: What's that noise? Sounds like loud clattering from inside...

Nhu Loan: I hear moaning...

Minh Tuyet: Well Loey, I guess you need to upgrade that stripper to a prostitute!

Where's Beckham?

2008-05-02T16:42:00.000-07:00

Since Nhu Loan lives in the same building as LTQ, it didn't took long for Bang Kieu to reach to her room. He shouted for Nhu Loan while knocking excessively, growing way too impatient, his arms are too sore that he put Beckham down while still knocking on the door and yelling. With all the noise he was making, he didn't realized that Nhu Loan had said "Coming!" so the moment she opened the door, she found herself being banged on the forehead with Bang Kieu's fist.

Nhu Loan: Ow Kieu! I told ya I was coming.

Bang Kieu: Oh, sorry about that.

Nhu Loan: So what's up?

Bang Kieu: Can you watch Beckham for me?

Nhu Loan: but...I need to run some errands.

Bang Kieu: Great! you can take Beckham with you!

Nhu Loan: But...

Bang Kieu: Please, Loey! There's no one else I could trust but you and I'm really late right now.

Nhu Loan: Alright, fine.

Bang Kieu: Ok, so here are his stuff. I gotta go! Thank you so much Loey! (kiss Beckham on the forehead) Bye!

Nhu Loan: Come on Beckham. Let's go to the cleaners first.

By the time Nhu Loan and Beckham entered into the parking lot, Bang Kieu was already gone. She growled as she struggled trying to strap the hyper Beckham in while fussing over her large bag that keeps slipping off her shoulders. When she finally buckled the boy in, she slammed the back seat door closed and got behind the wheel. Turning on the engine, she slowly backed out of the parking lot and onto the main street. After parking her car, She walked down the streets toward the Dry Cleaning shop with Beckham trotting behind her.

Nhu Loan: Stay close to me, Beckham!

Beckham: Ooo Ice cream!

Nhu Loan: No we don't have time for that, now hurry up before the store closes.

Beckham was upset, looking down at the sidewalk but Nhu Loan was too busy worrying about her stage costumes that won't be picked up, therefore, nothing to wear for her shows. They entered the shop to find it crowded with people picking up and dropping off their clothes. This is what Nhu Loan gets for doing favors for Bang Kieu.

Nhu Loan: Beckham, go over there and read some magazines, it's gonna be a long time.

Beckham: Ice cream?

Nhu Loan: I don't care, just go! don't bother me!

Beckham: Okie dokie!

Nhu Loan had to literally fight with a pro wrestler to be the next in line, who was not pleased that his barely there costume will be delayed because of her. The lady handed her her freshly clean and pressed outfits. Nhu Loan skipped toward the group of Kids looking for Beckham, to her surprise, he's not there.

Nhu Loan: Beckham? You there? Hey kid you see a little boy around?

Kid: Uh...we all little boys!

Nhu Loan: Great!

She crawled on all fours, searching every square inch for the him. Then she realized that Beckham have told her about wanting Ice cream on their way. Rushing out the store, she ran all the way to the ice cream parlor. Still panting, her eyes searched around for any signs of the adorable little brat but he was not in here and nor did anyone there saw him.

Owner: Sorry Miss, I see little boys here all the time, can't keep track of them. Oh, but I did see a little boy that fits your description.

Nhu Loan: Oh really?

Owner: Yeah, a young gentleman approached him. The kid says he knows the man and that he will take the kid back to his place.

Nhu Loan: Oh I knew it! QUANG!

Owner: That handsome singer from Paris By Night?

Nhu Loan: Oh he won't be when I'm through with him!

Owner: What's that?

Sweetie Beckham

2008-04-26T10:28:00.001-07:00

Bang Kieu ran across the street with his son in his arms to the apartment building. He nearly bumped into an old lady when making his way into the elevator. He wasn't mad at Tuyet but rather more annoyed at how she couldn't even handle yet the simplest task. The doors open and he race down the hall, pounding at LTQ's door. After a few minutes, the door finally open revealing tired and irritated LTQ staring at him through crusty-eyed slits.

LTQ: You pounded?

Bang Kieu: Yes, why are you still in your p.j.'s?

LTQ: It's my break time, can't I sleep?

Bang Kieu: Sorry to wake you but could you watch Beckham for a week?

LTQ: Ok...

Bang Kieu: Great! (enters the room) Beckham's daycare center is out for the whole week, so you have to find something educational for him to do.

LTQ: Ok...

Bang Kieu: Go on Beckham.

Beckham: "Mary had a little lamb, little lamb! Mary had a little lamb..."

Bang Kieu: And Quang, remember that he's not supposed to have any sugar at all while I'm gone, he tends to go overboard on the sweets but he's allowed to have one piece of candy a day-

LTQ: (snores)

Bang Kieu: QUANG!

LTQ: Yes! no candy okay.

Bang Kieu: Try staying awake while I go downstairs to get Beckham's things.

LTQ: sure

Bang Kieu went out the door, and LTQ dragged his feet across the floor to the couch

Beckham: Uncle Wangy?

LTQ: Huh?

Beckham: Can I have some ice cream?

LTQ: Ok, your daddy said nothing about ice cream so I guess it's okay then.

He slowly got up and slide to his refrigerator where he pulled out a small pint of chocolate ice cream. His eyes were halfway open, he scratched his tousled hair causing it to stick up while looking for where he put the spoons at. Too tired to look, he grabbed one off from last night's dinner and rinsed it under the faucet. Wiping it dry with a paper napkin, he headed back to the living room. Beckham's eyes light up when he saw the ice cream and eagerly snatch both the spoon and the pint from LTQ's hands.

LTQ: Yeah..yeah, now go take care of yourself, Uncle Quang needs to sleep...(snores)

Beckham was having a hard time trying to pull the lid off, with it kept slipping off his fingers. Frustrated, he used his front tooth to pry it off and it came off with ease. Smiling, he quickly dig in, chocolate was smearing all over his mouth but he didn't care as LTQ continue to snore loudly. After a few minutes, Beckham have managed to down half of the ice cream. There were sounds coming from the hallway, mostly grunts and groans. The door slowly opened, Bang Kieu came in with arms full of duffle bags and toys.

Bang Kieu: Hey Quang can you help-WHAT IN THE WORLD! (putting the things on the ground) Beckham! I told you not to eat any sweets!

Beckham: Uncle let me!

Bang Kieu: He did? I told him-QUANG! WAKE UP!

LTQ felt a slap across his face, he jolted up, looking surprised and fully awake this time.

LTQ: What? What? What? huh?

Bang Kieu: I told you that Beckham can't eat any sugar!

LTQ: OH...

Bang Kieu: And you were sleeping!

LTQ: Does that mean I'm not baby sitting?

Bang Kieu: NO! Now I have to go over to Loey's

LTQ: Ok, tell her I said hi...

Ain't Nothing But Beckham

2008-04-12T17:44:00.001-07:00

"Hello Mr. Bang Kieu? Hi there, This is Julie, your babysitter. I know I told you that I was free this whole week but um my boyfriend booked us a private lodge in Lake Tahoe and so I can't watch Beckham-OH there he is now! Gotta go! byes!"

Bang Kieu pressed the erase button, he had an annoyed look on his face.

"Great! hope you two get snowed in and freeze to death! Now how am I going to find a babysitter now?"

Bang Kieu parked his car in front of the condominium, getting out of the car and unstrapping Beckham from his chair, he walked up to the gate with his son holding his hand. After passing the lobby and through the elevator, they stopped in front of Minh Tuyet's door. He buzzed and waited patiently for her to arrive. Feeling rather annoyed, he buzzed again and again. Minh Tuyet growled and stomped her way, unlocking the door.

Minh Tuyet: WHAT YOU WANT-Oh Kieu! What are you doing here?

Bang Kieu: Er...Um, I'm booked to the max with shows all week and the babysitter canceled at the last minute.

Minh Tuyet: Don't tell me...

Bang Kieu: I-WANT-YOU-TO-BABY-SIT-BECKHAM-FOR-ME...PLEASE?

Minh Tuyet: I knew it.

Beckham: Hi! Hi!

Bang Kieu: It's just for a week.

Minh Tuyet: Fine... come on in.

Bang Kieu: Oh can I use your bathroom?

Minh Tuyet: Sure...it's straight ahead and to your left.

Bang kieu: Ah I know

Minh Tuyet: Whatever.

She moved the way for the two to enter in, Bang Kieu immediately headed for the bathroom. Both Minh Tuyet and Beckham sat on the couch, she took the remote and changed the channel.

Minh Tuyet: Here, something educational for you too watch.

Beckham: Okay.

"...Well now we call this the act of mating but...There are several other very important differences
Between human beings and anmials you should know about..."

Bang Kieu: "TUYET!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You can't let my son watch this!"

Minh Tuyet: Why not? It's just showing two monkeys making love.

Beckham: Monkeys! Beckham likey!

Bang Kieu: NO!

Minh Tuyet: It's the discovery channel!

Bang Kieu: NO! NO! and NO! For god's sakes Tuyet he's only three!

Minh Tuyet: Who will learn it someday

Bang Kieu: Until that day, No Sexual content- BECKHAM WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING AT?

Beckham: picture book!

Bang Kieu stared in horror as his son, continually flipped through the pages of a Victoria's Secret catalogue, pauses from time to time to look at the "colorful" photographs.

Bang Kieu: What the hell you got a Victoria's Secret catalogue on your coffee table!

Minh Tuyet: It just came in this morning! It's not like it's his first time I mean it's all over on the billboards.

Bang Kieu: Tuyet, I am in very stressful position here, if you can't help me then fine, I'll just ask Quang! Let's go Beckham!

Minh Tuyet: What did I do wrong?

Bang Kieu: EVERYTHING!

Beckham: Buh-bye!

Plan B

2008-04-11T17:17:00.001-07:00

The killer enters in the dark office of his boss, Jack is no where to be seen, everything in the office is dimly lit by the sun shining through the blinds. He pulls the sleeve of his jacket to reveal a battered watch, it's been a half an hour since he sat there. Typical of Jack to be late, either you are there before he gets there or better start writing your will. Jack enters in, a fresh cup of coffee in one hand and a rolled magazine in the other. The killer gets up to greet him but Jack doesn't say anything only splashing the killer's face with his steaming hot coffee causing the killer to scream in agony falling to ground with his face buried in his arms.

Jack: All those years of never failing me and you chose now to screw it up.

Killer: Sir...(grunts)...you don't...understand... I know what I am doing.

Jack motions his mens with a snap and one of them grabs the killer by his hair and pulls the killer's head up so Jack can see his redden face. He shoves the cover of Juicy's latest issue with Minh Tuyet and Luong Tung Quang apparently on the floor of a store, kissing, in front of his face.

Jack: Then what's this?

Killer: Sir, that's their life...what does it have to do with-

Jack: THAT'S THE POINT! They are back to their ordinary lives! They should have been dead along time ago. I trusted you knew what you were doing when you purposely crash the plane to the island and I forgave you when they escaped thinking you'll finish them off at the show.

Killer: I can reassure you that everything is going perfectly planned.

Jack motions his man to let the killer go, who dropped down instantly on the ground touching his searing face.

Jack: You have a plan?

Killer: the key is one at a time...

******************************************************************************
Nhu Loan: What you want now?

Jimmy: I just want to talk.

Nhu Loan: I can't right now, I'm about to go onstage.

Jimmy: You can bare a few minutes just to talk to your man.

Nhu Loan: What is wrong with you Jimmy, you know I can't do that.
Jimmy: It's always can't this and can't that.

Nhu Loan: Oh no, can't talk. Gotta go!

******************************************************************************
Bang Kieu: Now?

Marie: Yeah, you are booked for the whole week in Europe.

Bang Kieu: But Beckham will miss me.

Marie: I'm sure he's a tough kid, just go buy him a teddy bear-

Bang Kieu: What? I can't do that to my son.

Marie: I do it with my kids all the time, you buy them something really nice and they forget that you're gone and by the time they do, you're already back home.

Bang Kieu: Alright I'll go, I'll just call his favorite babysitter Julie.

Shop till you drop

2008-03-29T11:34:00.000-07:00

Marie: ok, now that you guys are an official couple. You guys need to hang out more so the media can have something to talk about.

Minh Tuyet: What? are you serious?

LTQ: It's not enough to say that we're dating?

Marie: No.

LTQ: Tell me again why am I doing this?

Marie: Well Minh Tuyet said it and a reporter caught it-

LTQ: I can say it's a lie, that's she's deranged and obsessive-

Minh Tuyet: I'll show you who's-

Marie: Calm down! Now the other reason is, it generates publicity for you two's upcoming duet album.

MT & LTQ: What? we didn't agree on it!

Marie: Oh but I did...and it's in your contracts. It states that you are fully committed to this company and all of it's projects that the C.E.O-that is me- assigns.

MT&LTQ: (groans)

Minh Tuyet: Sucks that I'm dating this loser, now I gotta skip my shopping days just for him.

Marie: Why that's a great idea! You two can shop together! It'll be so cute in the papers!

MT:LTQ: (more groans)

Marie: Come on now, don't waste time. Shop!

*************************************
"This is Eve Dropper reporting live! We are downtown in Mason City's largest shopping mall, where Minh Tuyet and Luong Tung Quang are shopping together!"

Minh Tuyet: How would this look on me?

LTQ: You look like a monkey.

Minh Tuyet: And this?

LTQ: Might as well go join the circus freaks!

Minh Tuyet: Look you don't have to love me, but at least pretend!

LTQ: Can I pretend this is all over?

Minh Tuyet: Stop it! now help me pick something to wear, I want to look nice for our next date.

LTQ: Ok then, I'll buy you this one to wear on our next date.

Minh Tuyet: What? it's hideous! No women will ever get caught in those!

LTQ: I know that's why I'm getting it and thank god it's the last one.

Minh Tuyet: Where are you going?

LTQ: Going to pay for it, what you think.

Minh Tuyet: I am not going to wear that!

LTQ: I'll just break up with you stating "we have our differences..."

Minh Tuyet: Come back here!

She pulled LTQ back and spun him around, losing balance LTQ grab hold of Minh Tuyet for support but they both ended up on the ground. She desperately tried to snatch the shirt back but he held onto tightly. Minh Tuyet climbed over him prying it out of his hands using one of the racks lying on the floor. Paparazzi were edging closer, capturing them rolling around on the ground. Minh Tuyet finally got the shirt in her hands and beamed triumphantly but LTQ pulled her down and kissed her...awkwardly. They continued to roll around knocking racks down as the two struggled against each other. With the shirt laying on the ground away from them.

Eve Dropper: My these two lovers can't get enough of each other, it seems you can do it anywhere, even at a store! What better than to keep the love flame and the heart rate going eh?"

The Media Knows

2008-02-23T17:40:00.000-08:00

"Oh never mind!" Minh Tuyet replied as her friends looked at her with curiosity. "I'm serious, it's nothing!"

Nhu Loan: Then why is it so hard for you to tell us?

LTQ: Yeah tell them how we are now a couple.

Bang Kieu: (coughs) You guys are?

Nhu Loan: But all you guys do is fight-

Bang Kieu: And bicker!

Nhu Loan: ..Oh! so this whole time-

Minh Tuyet: YES! QUANG AND I ARE A COUPLE BUT-

A reporter jumps out of nowhere, and started to report the shocking event. Reporter: This is Eve Dropper here, reporting right at the source! Pop star Minh Tuyet have just confirmed to her friends that she is dating singer Luong Tung Quang.

Minh Tuyet: WHAT? NO! THAT'S NOT-

Reporter#2: This is Jon Noselot reporting, Minh Tuyet was outraged when news have broke out that she is currently dating singer Luong Tung Quang, who have coincidentally signed to the same record label as her.

Nhu Loan: Wow at least you don't have to hide from them about it.

Minh Tuyet: No! I was just trying to make my ex jealous!

Bang Kieu: Me? I thought we were cool.

Minh Tuyet: No, Aaron, I couldn't stand him with another girl and all happy so I pretended Quang was my boyfriend. I would have gone with you if you were here earlier!

Eve Dropper: It seems the Minh Tuyet is stuck between choosing three men. Even though she has dumped singer Bang Kieu, she still has feelings for him. We have also confirmed there's another man in this crazy love triangle by the name of Aaron. Who will She chose?

Minh Tuyet: Alright this is getting ridiculous!

Minh Tuyet hoped over the restaurant's fence and quickly walked up to the reporter. Grabbing the mic from Eve, she flashes a smile for the camera and begin her speech.

Minh Tuyet: To all the viewers out there watching, I would like to clear up some...miscommunication involving my love life. Yes, it's true I have dated Bang Kieu in the past but as of right now, we are nothing but good friends. As for Aaron, he is one of my MANY friends, which happens to be a boy-

Eve: Friend?

Minh Tuyet: No. Right now, there is no one in my love life right now...(everyone gasp) other than my dear charming, handsome boyfriend and that is singer Luong-Tung-Quang. Who I love passionately. (She smiles for the camera as Eve takes the mic back)

Eve: We have the exclusive right here, Minh Tuyet confirms her relationship with Luong Tung Quang...Oh and I can see him now! he looks so shocked! probably amazed that his lover had the guts to tell the public! Aw...look at them hugging! they make such a cute couple!

LTQ: (whisper) I hate you! Why couldn't you say we aren't dating?

Minh Tuyet: Because then they'll think I'm lying...now hold me closer!

LTQ: Psh...you wish.

Aaron: Hey Tuyet...

Minh Tuyet: Oh yes Aaron?

Aaron: That was brave of you to say that to the media, not many celebrities would do that.

LTQ: I know she's-aw...(Minh Tuyet squeezed him tighter)

Minh Tuyet: Oh Quang, you don't have to say no more...cuz I already know what you gonna say!

Aaron: Alright I'll leave you two love birds alone. Bye!

Minh Tuyet: Bye! (her phone rings) Hello?

Marie: Tuyet! the phones are ringing in! fans can't seem to get enough you guys! They want to see more you guys together! Wow Thuy Nga has never had something as big as this before! I knew pairing you two would bring big business! Meet me tomorrow and we will discuss this even further! Ok gotta go brainstorm, bye!

Minh Tuyet: Great!

Introducing Trouble

2008-02-21T18:36:00.000-08:00

Bang Kieu's message:

"Hey Quang! I'm sorry but Loey and I are standing in the line picking up my medication, damn who knew it would take this long! So we might be a little late for lunch...sorry! So can you guys wait like 10 minutes?"

30 minutes later....at Passion's

Minh Tuyet: 10 minutest! He said 10 minutes and what's in front of us? TWO EMPTY CHAIRS!

LTQ: Maybe they got lost?

Minh Tuyet: We freaking eat here once a week!

LTQ: No, last week was at Coco's.

Waiter: Hello! Welcome to Passion's, where food is our's! can I take your order?

Minh Tuyet: Uh Hello? you already asked us that when we got here!

Waiter: Sorry, I'm new at this...just got hired yesterday.

Minh Tuyet: uh...OBVIOUSLY!

LTQ: Sorry...she's just in a cranky mood.

Waiter: I understand, you guys had a hard time in Korea-

Minh Tuyet: BEAT IT!

Waiter: Okay!

The young waiter scurried off to serve a nearby table as Minh Tuyet ran her hands through her hair in frustration. What could possibly make this day even worse?

LTQ: Hmmm, I have an urge for those bobba drinks

Minh Tuyet: Whatever just go!

LTQ makes his way out of the outdoor cafe and rushes across the street to the bubble tea shop. Minh Tuyet quickly glanced at her friend as he clumsily make his way into the trendy shop. She let out a long sigh and buried herself in her arms. She can hear the annoying young waiter greeting new customers, she heard footsteps coming toward her. Minh Tuyet was so glad that Bang Kieu had finally arrived. She lifted herself up and blurted "Finally!" when she caught the eyes of a handsome man smiling at her.

Aaron: Hello Tuyet, nice seeing you again!

Minh Tuyet didn't know what to say, her jaw hung lifelessly. The man she never knew would ever come back, is standing right in front of her. He flashed a sweet smile at her.

Aaron: So how are things? You know, with your life and all

Minh Tuyet: Uh-uh-uh

LTQ: You know, they asked me how big I want my balls and I said My balls are fine! I didn't realized they were talking about the jelly ones! Hello, it's called tapioca! What a bunch of f.o.bs...who's he?

Minh Tuyet: QUANG! you're back! and you brought me a drink! Aw You know you shouldn't have!

LTQ: Huh? What are you talking about? this is for-

Minh Tuyet: For me to drink later?

LTQ: Are you okay?

Minh Tuyet: Oh I'm fine! How thoughtful of you to ask!(turning to Aaron) You know boyfriends are so caring.

Aaron: Oh I see he's your boyfriend...

LTQ (almost choking on a jelly pearl): WHAT? No we are-

Minh Tuyet: Just taking it slow...don't want to rush things. Here honey, have some ice cream!

Before LTQ can say anything, Minh Tuyet shoved a spoonful into his mouth. The instant chilling sensation caused him to let out shriek as melted ice cream drip from the side of his mouth. Aaron watched as Minh Tuyet clumsily wiped his mouth like a baby.

Aaron: Seems like you two are very happy.

(Minh Tuyet was struggling to wipe the cream from LTQ's face but he kept pushing her away_
Minh Tuyet: Oh we are! but I think you should join your female friend, a man can't leave a women's side now, right?

Aaron: Yeah, you're right. Well, it's nice seeing you again. (Aaron leaves)

LTQ: Get off of me! What was that all about?

Minh Tuyet: You don't want to know.

NL & BK: Know about what?

Let Go

2008-02-16T16:58:00.000-08:00

Minh Tuyet was just out of the recording studio when her phone began to ring. She had expected her annoying manager to call her but when she looked at the caller's name, it said Loey. Thinking Nhu Loan is just making sure she's is actually working, she answered it with an annoyed "Hello".

Nhu Loan: Tuyet? You busy?

Minh Tuyet: Why?

Nhu Loan: I was thinking we can go shopping, there's a huge sale!

Minh Tuyet: You want me to fly to wherever you are just so we can shop?

Nhu Loan: No silly I'm in the city.

Minh Tuyet: You aren't booked here!

Nhu Loan: Okay I lied just so I don't have to watch Beckham

Minh Tuyet: OOo Loey is bad

Nhu Loan: Whatever, you in?

Minh Tuyet: Of course!

Originally they were going to drive to the shopping centers but Nhu Loan had persisted that they take the bus there. Minh Tuyet finally agreed after much protest when Nhu Loan said that they'll save more on gas and parking fees. After a quick visit at Betsy Johnson, Chanel, Gucci, the girls were already spending thousands. Carrying loads of shopping bags, they walked down the streets, enjoying their freedom from their problems and their careers.

Nhu Loan: Wow! can you believe we've already spent 10,000 dollars?

Minh Tuyet: Oooo but we aren't done yet!

Nhu Loan: Easy for you to say, you're closet is stuff with labels!

Minh Tuyet: Hey I shop at chain stores!

Nhu Loan: Man, I'm going to need to do 5 shows to pay these off!

Minh Tuyet: Hey do you think it's wrong that LTQ is baby sitting Beckham?

Nhu Loan: Nah, friends help each other out and besides I need a break.

Minh Tuyet: True...

Minh Tuyet was so into their conversation that she bumped into a tall man dressed in black.

"Sorry!" Minh Tuyet quickly apologizes.

"Watch it!" He snapped.

"Geez! I said I was sorry!"

The man looked at her face and seemed to just realized something. He didn't respond, but awkwardly turned around and walked away.

Nhu Loan: Gosh, Tuyet! You scared the man away!

------------------------------
(Luong Tung Quang)
The shopping cart rattled as LTQ went down the aisles picking various items and dropping them lazily in the cart. Beckham was in a jolly mood, clapping his hands from time to time with a huge smile on his face.

LTQ: Ugh...why do I have to do this!

Beckham: Cookie!

LTQ: NO Beckham! you just had a one on our way here!

Beckham: Cookie for Beckham!

LTQ: NO!

Beckham gave a huge sigh and frowned. He begin playing with his fingers as LTQ continued his shopping. There was a cluster of balloons scattered freely under net to keep it from flying, Beckham's eyes light up.

Beckham: Balloon! Balloon!

LTQ: No, you can't have any balloons

Beckham: Me want balloon!

LTQ: Fine just one

Beckham: No Two! (LTQ grabbed another) Three! (grabbed another) Four! (grabbed another) Five! (grabbed another) Six! Seven! Eight! Nine!Ten...

Before LTQ knew it, he had grabbed all of the balloons in his hands with Beckham smiling widely.

LTQ: Beckham! you can't have all these balloons!

Beckham: Beckham likey!

LTQ: NO! I said just ONE not the whole thing!

Beckham: Me want!

LTQ: NO

Beckham: Yes!

LTQ: THAT'S IT! BECKHAM I SAID NO AND IT'S NO! YOU CAN'T HAVE ALL OF IT YOU SPOILED BRAT. IT SUCKS ENOUGH I HAVE TO TAKE CARE OF YOU AND NOW YOU ARE GIVING ME A HARD TIME! DO YO-

Shopper: Don't you yell at your child!

LTQ: No ma'am, He's not my child, I'm just doing a friend a favor, you see he's in the hospital and I-

Shopper: And you yelled at him anyways?

LTQ: No, you see he was getting on my nerves, first he was asking for the cookie and then now he wants balloons and I said he can't-

Shopper: Oh I see, you just trying to deprive a child of his happiness

LTQ: No! No! It's not like that. Kids just want it now but then throw it away.

Shopper: You think all kids are like that?

LTQ: Um, yeah?

Shopper: (slapping him) You are one bad man! (others started crowding)

Shopper 2: What did he do?

Shopper: He wouldn't let the kid get a balloon and yelled at him!

Shopper 2: (gasp) NO WAY!

Shopper: And the kid's father is in the hospital!

Shopper 2: (gasp) The poor little kid! What a way to make it even harder on him!

Shopper: I KNOW!

LTQ: B-But he was asking for the whole thing!

Shopper: I don't care if he ask for a million, I'd be glad to buy it to put a smile on his face!

LTQ: Then why don't you buy them!

Shopper: You see that? Mean and greedy!

LTQ: No, I am a very nice guy, it's just I am very-ugh fine I'll buy them

Shopper: Now was it that hard?

LTQ pushed the cart out into the parking lot with the cluster of balloons tied to to Beckham's wrist. He seemed to be happy that he got what he wanted but LTQ was furious at the humiliation he had to endure to get it. He picked up Beckham and place him beside him as he loaded the groceries into the trunk of his car. Suddenly he saw flashes of color behind him and turned around. The balloons were no longer on Beckham's wrist, in fact, it's nowhere to be seen.

LTQ: BECKHAM!!!!!!! Where are the balloons?

Beckham: Balloons go bye bye!

Just a dream...

2008-02-09T08:57:00.000-08:00

"Don't worry honey, you'd be safe with Kieu. I promise"

Though terrified, Jack's wife gave a slight nod and a weak smile. Nguyen Hung's men were rushing into the mansion like rats. Jack felt as though he's being cornered in. After giving his wife one last kiss, he turned to Bang Kieu standing by the side of the door:

"I trust you to take good care of my wife, I want her out of the property and safely on a train."

"I ain't going nowhere!"

"DAMN, kid. Anything happens to her, don't expect to live. GO!" Jack answered with a sense of anger in his voice.

Bang Kieu, despite how much he hate to leave, left without saying another word. Jack watched as his wife slowly follows Bang Kieu into the secret passage until she was seen no more. He then turn the candle on his desk to seal the way, wishing and praying--even though he doesn't believe in God--that his wife will be okay. Bullets were being shot through the door and Jack immediately pulled his gun and join alongside his men.

Bang Kieu: Watch your step, Ma'am

Jack's Wife: Thank you!

Bang Kieu: Don't worry, we are almost there.

Climbing up the ladder, Bang Kieu peered through the vent as more of Nguyen Hung's men passed by. When everything was clear, he busted the vent open and squeezed out, he straighten himself out before helping Jack's wife out. She brushed the dirt off her dress and fixed her hair, Bang Kieu took another look around.

Bang Kieu: Ok, I think it's safe to-

A loud gunshot was heard and immediately Bang Kieu clasped his right arm, groaning in pain. Sensing danger, the wife panicked squeezing Bang Kieu's other hand very tightly although he told her that everything is alright. He let go of her hand to pull out a gun from his breast pocket of his jacket. The black car that was supposed to pick them up, arrived in the nick of time. The driver swerved to the side and motioned them to get in. The wife was so eager to escape, left his side and ran towards the car. Bang Kieu took one look at the driver, it took a while before Bang Kieu realized that he is not the one Jack had hired.

Bang Kieu: NO!! Don't go! He's the enemy!

But it was too late, the wife was halfway there before the driver pulled out his gun and fired right into her chest, her body froze, collapsing on to the pavement. Full of rage, Bang Kieu shot at the driver, causing many bullet holes to the man's head, he was surely dead. Rushing to her side, Bang Kieu turned her over to see tears streaming down her eyes. She had an innocence in her eyes as if she were an angel of some sort. It's no wonder Jack fell in love with her, Bang Kieu grasped her body close to him, pulling out his cellphone, he was determined to keep her alive. Bang Kieu couldn't explain to the operator clearly what the situation is, blurting out a bunch on nonsense. Realizing that she will not survive, the wife slipped something into Bang Kieu's hand, he dropped the phone and stared at her. Her voice was low but he can still hear her:

Wife: Give this to...

Bang Kieu: What? What? to who? No, you can't die! Please! Please! TELL ME!

He was tossing and turning before he jolted up, breathing very hard and sweat was dripping from his face. Bang Kieu's cries seemed to wake his friends from their nap as they rush to his side.

Nhu Loan: What's wrong?

Minh Tuyet: Did you have a bad dream?

LTQ: Did the boogey man get you too?

Everyone went silent as Nhu Loan and Minh Tuyet glared at him, he smiled sheepishly.

Bang Kieu: I-I-If only I could only I could have recognize the killer right away, then she would've died.

Minh Tuyet: Oh don't worry kieu! you'll dream of her again and by then you'll get it right...it's not me right?

LTQ: You are so conceited.

Nhu Loan: Shut it you guys, Kieu just woke up, he needs some rest. Gosh Kieu we were so worried about you.

Bang Kieu: Where's Beckham? Is he okay?

Nhu Loan: He's fine, he's in the play room with the other little kids. If you want I can bring him here.

Bang Kieu: No, it's okay. Can you guys leave me alone? I want to rest.

Everyone: Okay.

Smooth Criminal

2008-02-06T19:54:00.000-08:00

DTV's mansion looks exactly the same. The green lawn was nicely cut, the bushes were trimmed perfectly, the house's white paint looks so purely white that it could've been repainted just an hour ago or so.

"A perfectionist with taste. My dream man." Minh Tuyet said.

LTQ scolded. Perfectionists are the one type of men he hates most. He believes that's what a woman should be. Men should only focus on the important and big things, and not wasting his time looking at every single detail to make sure it's perfect. Nobody's perfect.

"If you like him so much, why don't you just marry him?" LTQ wanted to stop himself but it was too late.

"Shut up, balloon head. He's a gangster. Why would I want the father of my kids to be a gangster? But I gotta admit--I would definitely prefer a gangster over a knucklehead."

"Too bad. Only knuckleheads would be foolish enough to marry you anyways."

"Look at yourself! No girls want you either!"

"Hey, that's because I'm picky-"

"Well, I am too!"

The two stopped as D stepped in the middle of them.

"DTV warned me about this. Please stop fighting, we have a lot to discuss inside. DTV and Mr. Hung is waiting for you. If I have to use violent means to get you inside, I will not hesitate."

LTQ took a teeny weeny step back, as if he was afraid that the guy would strike any moment. But D didn't. He just started walking toward the door, and they followed.
-----------------------------------------

Inside the house was entirely different from the outside. It seems to be just the opposite of what they remembered it to be. It was dark inside and all the furnitures seemed to lose its colorfulness. There was nothing but white and in the dark, everything look gray.

D led them to a room upstair, a place they haven't been to before. But like all the other rooms, it bore a boring shade of gray. A man was sitting in a big chair behind his desk. There was a window behind him, where some beams of light managed to make it through. In contrast to the light, his face was difficult to see. He slowly took out something from under his desk. LTQ and Minh Tuyet had the same thought in their head: Gun. They were taking a step back when both came to realization that it was a cigar, not gun. The guy started smoking and then suddenly, he coughed.

Minh Tuyet: Vu? Is that you?

The guy kept on coughing and could not reply her. A voice burst out from the hall,

"GET OUT OF MY CHAIR AND STAY AWAY FROM MY CIGARETTES!"

At the order, the guy clumsily fell out of the chair, still coughing. The door opened, and a man in white suit stepped in. "I knew it! Two minutes in the bathroom and you couldn't resist?" Was the first things he said.

LTQ and Minh Tuyet were confused at what was going on. Who is this man? Out of the blue, someone turned the lights on--it was the stranger who just entered the room.

Minh Tuyet: Duong Trieu Vu! I KNEW IT WAS YOU!

DTV started to laugh, still coughing, and together, it sounded like he was choking to death.

LTQ felt sick at the joke. A minute ago, he was worried that Jack had caught DTV and took over the place. He turned his attention to the stranger, "Who are you?"

"Name's Hung. I'm the boss of this gang." He replied, walking toward his chair and sat down, while DTV crawled to a smaller seat next to him, now no longer choking but breathing hard to catch his breath.

LTQ: Someone made it seems like he's the boss instead.

Hung shot a look at DTV but changed the topic, "Kieu is currently in the hospital right now. Some nasty wounds he's got-"

"What happened to him?" Minh Tuyet asked, worried.

"Jack's men caught up to him and beat him up at a gas station. The owner somehow misunderstood him for the bad guy and made it worse by putting a bullet in his chest."

Minh Tuyet: I thought Vu sent people to watch after us? How come this still happen?

Vu: I'm sorry. We got there late due to traffic.

Hung: Anyways, he's lucky that he's still alive. And you guys are lucky to not have any scratches. Kieu must be out of his mind to try and put Jack in jail. He had to pay for his stupidity.

Minh Tuyet started to shout, "You talk like it's all his fault! Where were you when he almost kill us? And your gang as well!"

LTQ: Tuyet, calm down.

Hung: Lady, it's wiser to listen to his advice. With friends like you, no wonder Kieu ends up where he is now. And for your information, I was busy trying to track down all of Jack's contact and the murderer of Mr. To.

Minh Tuyet & LTQ: He was killed?!

Hung: Of course. What did you think?

LTQ: We.. just never thought..and we were never told that he was killed. But why would you want to track down his murderer? Just for revenge?

Hung: Mr. To was one of my closest friends. I would never let that person get away with it. Mess with my friends or family, and I'll make you pay.

There was a knock on the door that interrupted the conversation.

"Come in," Jack said.

A young man dressed in white stepped in. He kept his head low. "Sir, one of our men that you sent to follow Mr. Quang isn't back. What do you want me to do?"

"You know the usual routine...if he don't show up in the next 5 hours, announced him dead. Send letters to his family... do what you can." Hung said.

DTV looked at LTQ. "Anything strange happened on your way back?"

"Hmm... No. Not that I know of." LTQ lied.

A Tribute to MIMC Artworks 2

2008-01-28T17:07:00.001-08:00

Aside from the stunning graphics, MIMC is also known for the videos that helps promote the image of the fanfic. It's also what really sets us apart from other fanfic. We like to think of our stories as movies in a way, so we try to create a trailer as well as poster for it. We'll start from the very first video, which is the first sneak peak at the new series.

At first we only wanted three main characters for the fanfic, so that's the reason why Bang Kieu was not in it. The song used is called "Step into the bad side" from the movie Dreamgirls, and it obviously fits into the theme of MIMC. The black and white helps give it a classy sophisticated look but also give a rough feel like Sin City. If you guys watch it carefully you'll notice you see Paris By Night talent show logo for a brief moment and what a coincidence that there's a talent show plot in the series.

prequel trailer

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During Season 1, we were growing very tired of writing...MIMC that is and just can't wait to finish off the season and start on a new project, which was the story of a prequel. This gives us the opportunity to show more about the characters and their background how they become who they are today, of course it didn't work out and in the end, we decided to go ahead with season 2. So we used the break to begin writing the episodes for season 2. The story, however, if was to be done, would've had a much lighter tone comparing to the first season, as depicted in the trailer with colorful clips and upbeat songs.

Mason trailer

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This was made Exclusively for Dylan's Entertainment 24/7 blog for the 2007 Fanfic Convention. It's a little teaser of what's coming up in Season 2, the music used is Timbaland's "Release"

MIMC Season 2

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This is more of a music video than a trailer as the entire song was used. This season promises to be more wilder than the last, so the right song needs to be chosen and another Timbaland song "Throw it on me" fits the theme as Season 2 is very in your face. Like in the Season 1 trailer, there are more hints in the trailer that will tell you what will happen. Comparing this with the very first video, it's quite a contrast as ones monotone and the other is full of colors as many people didn't like the black and white style.

GimmemoreMIMC2 commercial

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Due to the lack of episodes being posted on time or none at all, since there was technical issues and other things such as school is coming up. So this video was made to tell everyone that yes MIMC is continuing with more, which leads to the song choice of Britney Spear's "Gimme More" song which is highly addicting :) From where we have left off, the gang was getting ready for the final show, and this shows them at the show. Not much fancy editing compared to the Season 2 trailer.

Now it's time to introduce MIMC's newest character, I don't think I need to say who as it'll be obvious who it is.

Smooth Criminal

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The video is a throwback to the very first MIMC video and is the MIMC classic look so what better way then to introduce an old fashioned, classic character than to pair it up with a classic hit, Smooth Criminal.

Deathproof

2008-01-26T16:37:00.000-08:00

LTQ kept on driving. He didn't want to stop and look at what he had done. He's killed another life--in attempt of self-defense, he once again convinced himself--and there was nothing he could do about it. Suddenly, he saw a limo that looked strangely familiar pulled over. No doubt, it was Minh Tuyet's. A man in uniform with huge sunglasses that covered most of his face stepped out. He had a gun with him.
LTQ hit the break and came out to check. The man in uniform stopped to take notice at the arrival of the nosy stranger.

"HEY! What are you doing- DAMN!" LTQ cried. An explosion deafened his ears temporarily. He turned around in shock to find his car exploded into pieces, and what left of it perished in flames. Bang Kieu was right. Someone really wanted them dead.

The man in uniform was just as surprised as he was. For several minutes they stood looking at each other in silence, not knowing what to do or say.

----------------------------------------
Minh Tuyet finally woke up due to the loud noises outside. She took a look around in attempt to recall where she was and what was happening. It all came back to her in a flash. The driver... where is he? Minh Tuyet thought. She peered outside the window and saw the figures of two man. It was dark outside but she managed to make out who they were. Minh Tuyet burst the door open and stepped outside.

"Quang! What are you doing here?" She screamed at the top of her lungs in a very unloving manner.

The two man turned around to look at her. The fake driver changed his facial expression and point his gun at Minh Tuyet. LTQ started to run toward him trying to get hold of the gun.

"BAM!" The noise pierced through the silent and coldness of an early winter evening. LTQ starred at Minh Tuyet, expecting to see her falling down. To his relief, she didn't. It was the fake driver who fell down. They both looked around to see where the bullet that killed him came from. There was no one around but a white car slowly rolling down the road. It finally came to a halt and a man came out.

"You guys okay?" He asked.

LTQ and Minh Tuyet exchanged looks of confusion. No one answered the question.

"Oh, I forgot to introduce. People call me D, I'm DTV's men. You guys can trust me."

Really. Minh Tuyet wanted to say. It was impossible to know who to trust now.

"Well, anyways," he continued, "DTV told me to drive you guys back to his place. Come."

LTQ and Minh Tuyet spent another moment exchanging looks. They really didn't know what to do.

LTQ: So?

Minh Tuyet: I don't drive limos.

LTQ: Huh?

Minh Tuyet didn't bother to explain or say any more. She walked toward the white car and got inside. LTQ had no choice but to follow her.
--------------------------

It was a long way driving back to DTV's mansion, so D decided to use the time to explain what was going on.

"Jack's shooting was scheduled on the day you guys left for Korea. We thought that was it. But no, several days later we recieved news that Andy, Jack's son, managed to break out of prison. Then not long after that, the entire police department buidling was blown up. Everything and everyone was destroyed. No one surivived. All paperwork, evidences, files, etc... are gone. There can't be anyone but Jack who would dare do this in Mason City. But then, Jack's dead. We had no idea what was going on. The bomber wasn't caught. Andy's still nowhere to be found..."

"But what does that have to do with us?" Minh Tuyet interrupted.

"Well, we never thought of it until Bang Kieu called two days ago, from Korea. He asked for DTV's protection once you guys get back to Mason City, because someone's after him and his friends. Then he asked if Jack had escaped prison, because he had a feeling Jack was behind all this. The only enemy he had alive, who was also you guys' enemy, was Jack. Think about it, the day after he was executed, all these strange events happened. It makes you wonder if Jack is really dead or he had come back to haunt us all. But all this time, we've forgotten one very important detail--no one was there to confirm Jack's death. Now it make some sense, doesn't it?"

"No." LTQ and Minh Tuyet replied in unison.

"Okay, let me break it down. Mike, the only police officer who dare stand up to Jack, died several days before Jack's shooting-"

"What?! He's dead? How come we never hear anything about it?"

"His body was never found until a week later of his death, and you guys were already in Korea by that time. Nasty stuff. Anyways, when there's no one else to stand up to Jack, he can do whatever he wants, right? Surely, Mike had wiped out half of the corrupted cops in the department but there are still some. Jack could've hired people to set up his execution to make it look like he's dead. Then he hired people to get his son out and blow up the department, wiping out all traces and records of himself. Finally, he just needed a new identity."

"In other words, Jack is back? And he's trying to kill us?"

"I'm afraid so."

A Tribute to MIMC Artworks 1

2008-01-06T08:21:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone,

Lately our posting schedule is extremly irregular and episodes take forever to post up. We're planning to get back on schedule soon. So, in the mean time let's take a look at our past artworks and look for clues that will lead to the upcoming episodes--and they're worth the wait, we promise :)

MIMC artworks (posters, banners, videos, etc...) had been a great part of the fanfic. In my own personal beliefs, the fanfic wouldn't be where it is if not for the artwork that played the role of promoting it. Let's take a look and see how things have evolved over time and all the artwork that wasn't made available to the public's eyes.

SEASON 1 Graphics

These are the first MIMC posters. As you can see, black and white is something that we use very often. It separates MIMC from the rest of the fanfics, since others often use bright, colorful posters to promote their fanfic as it catches the eye of the reader more. We figured that using black and white among all the other colorful artworks will make it stands out more.

As you can see, there isn't a poster for Bang Kieu by himself in this edition. Originally, we did have a poster for him but as it turns out, that layout wasn't used and on our second try, which restults in these posters you see here, we were out of time and didn't make one for Bang Kieu, for we didn't think he'll become such a big role in the storyline.

Ones that didn't make it:

Why: Background wasn't even close to real and the title seemed "cheesy"

OFFICIAL POSTER of SEASON 1

This was the best artwork done by the creator at the time (hint: now you guys all know who's writting this.) It has more colors because a lot of people prefered colors to B&W and being a new fanfic, we needed to get as much attention as possible.

However, on looking back, there are a lot of things that could've been done to improve it. Ex: The skin tones of each character varies in a way that makes them looks like they were cut and paste, rather than the idea of making them looks like they took the picture together.

Ones that didn't make it:

Why: (1st one)The tone of the story was dark, therefore it makes no sense in having a white background. Besides, the darker one looked better. (2nd one) This was originally made to be a background for a myspace. It was the one that the other posters are based on.

A COMIC STRIP: http://forums.thuyngaonline.com/tm.aspx?m=644439

It was to go along with one of our episodes--the beginning of the infamous on-screen couple LTQ and MT. Their relationship are loved by the readers. It became so succesful that we decided to incoporate it into the rest of the season.

MNNLO's creations. This had little do with the fanfic besides the fact it has the two main character in it. However, it's one of the few graphics where we both put some work into it rather than one making it and the other reviewing.

FINALE POSTER

Up until now, this remains the best poster of MIMC in our opinion. The problem of skin tones remains no longer. The idea of them being in a "swamp" (that was supposed to be a lake) is to say that they're sinking deeper and deeper into the underworld of Mason City. Coincidently, it also hints that they're going to be stuck on an island in Season 2 due to a plane crash. Luckily, all it took was one try and there are no other versions of this poster.

Bang Kieu fans may also complain that he gets very little picture on posters. Well, it has nothing to do with being bias or whatever else besides the reason that we try to put things in a way that makes the poster looks best. If everyone had a big picture it would look definitely uninteresting. Besides, Bang Kieu always get the "big" storyline to make it up anyways.

PLANNED PREQUEL Graphics

We had more promotions for the prequel than the episodes we had for it. The idea didn't work out, however, as we lost interest in it after awhile of putting it on hold due to personal reasons.

Here is a brief summary of what we had planned: The four of them went to highschool together, and part at the end of their senior year. They all left the hometown (which is NOT Mason City, and thus conflicts the name of the series, Made in Mason City) The four nicknames on the poster are supposed to be the four characters' nicknames in highschool. Nhu Loan was the Beautiful, a sweetheart, a heart-breaker, and LTQ's crush, LTQ was the Ugly (ironic :P) he was a nerd and thus didn't care about his appearance, Bang Kieu was the bad, since he was brought up by Jack and exposed to the bad side of life in his early years, and he was dating Talk-a-Lot, Minh Tuyet, who was the god of gossip and knows litterally everything that was going on inside and outside of the school.

Of course, these things are just what we had planned and has nothing with what we'll write in the future. The history of the 4 characters are all changed and is almost nothing like that of what was planned in the prequel-that-never-existed.

A Soundtrack Project That Was Never Started

We wanted to release a CD (not litterally of course) with songs selected to match the theme of Mason City and a booklet to go along with it. This is the only thing that really came out of it.

SEASON 2 Graphics

After the much-praised (and complained due to MT getting shot) season finale that recieved much attention from readers, we were excited to launch season 2. Since we were planning on releasing a prequel rather than sequel, season 2 seemed to take up a long time to prepared. However, it didn't take much longer than that of Season 1.

Official Poster

We approached the poster with a more realistic look this time. It shows the main focus of the season, Jack's revenge. This was supposed to be the desk or a bulletin board of the killer Jack hired, with pictures and information about his targets and other stuff like airplane tickets. (The little card with the words Cleaners on it was his ads. His job is to "clean up" anything that needed to be clean and wipe out anything that needed to be wiped) Comparing to the Season 1 Official Poster, this had gone a long way. And we are still sticking to our not-so-colorful style of graphics.

Ones that didn't make it:

Why: Well, they're simply... not good enough.

The next one will be about videos which will include a SNEAK PEEK video that will introduces a NEW character.

Danger

2007-12-29T10:25:00.000-08:00

The gang was glad to be back home. Mason City might be a mess but Korea was worse. So many things had happened on their trip. Everywhere they go, there is trouble. It's like a curse they can't get out of. After saying good byes, the five left the airport on their own. Minh Tuyet left on her limo. Bang Kieu and his son drove home in their car. LTQ offered Nhu Loan a ride but she refused and took a cab instead. Apparently, she still couldn't quite get over what happened during their trip.

-----------------------------------

(Minh Tuyet)

Minh Tuyet sank into her seat and took a deep breath. It felt good to be in a familiar place again. However, Minh Tuyet couldn't help but look around and be a little obnoxious. She noticed something that wasn't quite right about the limo. Stains on the seats. Jake, the limo driver, wasn't the kind who'd bring drinks into his car and spill it. Even if he did, he would always get them cleaned up. The guy was a neat freak.

"Jake, why are there stains on the se-"

Minh Tuyet couldn't finnish her sentence as the driver took a sharp turn and she had no choice but to fall to the side and hit her head hard on the door. This is the reason why one should always put on seatbelts. Minh Tuyet could worry about that later, though, because now she finally realized that the man who's been driving all this time isn't her driver. Worse, the road he just took isn't on her way home.

--------------------------------------
(Luong Tung Quang)

LTQ took the longer route home, the one that doesn't lead to downtown, where it would be impossible to move at this hour because of the traffic. Not many travel on this road, since it was bumpy and had many sharp turns. So even though it is the longer way home, it is the faster one.
He usually find himself alone on it, but this time there was another car. It had followed him ever since he left the airport. He slowed down, expecting the car to pass him. It didn't. He thought for a moment and considered the possibilities of what he can do.

LTQ decided to speed up and outrun the car. He pressed hard on the gas, and his car immediately sped up, leaving quite a distance between him and the other car. But it soon caught up with him. LTQ knew too well that at the end of the road there will be a very sharp turn, and he could only hope that the other driver didn't know the same thing. This would be his only chance to get rid of the unwanted follower.With one swift motion, LTQ did the sharp turn and was almost thrown off the road in the process.

The other car was running even faster than he was, and didn't see that there was a sharp turn ahead of him. He only had time to turn the wheel around once his car was hanging in midair after breaking the barrier and running off the cliff.

--------------------------------------
(Bang Kieu)

Bang Kieu stopped by a gas station on his way home to get Beckham some milk and candies, leaving Beckham sitting in the car by himself. As he was looking around, a big, tall man approached him from behind and tapped him on the shoulder. Bang Kieu turned around to see who it was and was greeted with a fist right in his face. It was such a strong blow that knocked Bang Kieu off his feet. He quickly got himself together and was about to fight back when the guy gave him a kick in the stomach that sent him almost flying across the room, knocking down shelves as he went. He took out a gun and was about to fire but Bang Kieu was faster. He got up and tackled the big guy down even before he had the chance to aim. The two men wrestled on the floor for the gun. But then someone hit Bang Kieu in the head with something very hard--a baseball bat. Despite the blow, Bang Kieu managed to reach for the gun and point it at the two attackers.

"Who are you people?" Bang Kieu asked, not really expecting a proper reply. He slowly took several steps back towards the door and began to feel dizzy as the warm stream of blood rolled down his face. He leaned against the door for support and was unaware of the cashier who had taken out his own gun and now was pointing it at him. Bang Kieu only realized it once the bullet was piercing its way through his flesh.

-------------------------------------

(Nhu Loan)

Nhu Loan arrived at her apartment, and was surprised to find that there was no light in LTQ's room. Surely he must have came back before her but there is no way the guy went to sleep already. He usually stays up very late and he had already slept during their entire trip back to Mason.

"Who cares," she told herself, trying to push thoughts of him off her mind. She couldn't help but look over to Minh Tuyet's mansion to see if there was any lights on. Apparently, she's not home either. The limo wasn't in the parking lot and there was no lights in the house. She suddenly felt angry and a bit jealous, though she couldn't accept the fact that she was. But what could two single human beings of opposite genders be doing at this time? Especially when one of them is named LTQ and one is Minh Tuyet? Nhu Loan walked away from the window and tried not to think about any of this anymore but all these thoughts keep coming back to her. The phone started ringing. It was coming from the police station.

Police: Are you Nhu Loan?

Nhu Loan: (thinking) Oh, what now? (speaking) Yes.

Police: A boy named Beckham with a badly injured man named Bang Kieu was found at this gas station. The little boy claimed that you were a close friend of his dad. Do you know them?

Nhu Loan: (shocked) Yes. What happened?

Police: Please come down to the police station-

Nhu Loan needed not to be told anymore. She took her purse and left the apartment in a hurry.

Waiting...

2007-12-25T15:21:00.000-08:00

The three had returned to the hotel, fear of being alone, the three decided to pack up in the same room. Nhu Loan was helping Beckham pack his things in his Jack Sparrow suitcase. Minh Tuyet was frustrated at how she can't fit the hotel toiletries in her already full cosmetic bag. LTQ was the first to pack up his things and was now watching the news. Everyone tried to keep busy to keep them from worrying, mainly for Beckham's sake who was excited to finally go home. He assumes his dad would come very soon and was in high spirits.

LTQ: Do you really need all those things?
Minh Tuyet: Yes, they are free and might as well stock up!
LTQ: Oh why not just take the towels then!
Minh Tuyet: I don't have any room
LTQ: TUH!

Minh Tuyet didn't felt like arguing, she had moved on to pack Bang Kieu's things. All was quiet in the room except for the news lady calmly reporting what's happening at the Stadium and Beckham talking to himself. It has been an hour since they left the place. Marie had called them once they got to the hotel to remind them that their flight is leaving at 1:30 am.

Minh Tuyet: GOD! it's 9 o'clock and he's still not here!
Nhu Loan: Give him another hour

******************************************************************

It was eleven o'clock and everyone was getting worried. Beckham was growing impatient of waiting around. Suddenly there was a knock on the door, everyone frozed. Beckham ran toward the door calling out "Daddy!" but Nhu Loan hold him back, covering his mouth. LTQ came came up the door, he tried to peer into the hotel peephole but he could only see hair. He turned to the others and shrugged. The others gave him a look like "say something" and he cleared his throat and let out the most girlish high pitched voice they ever heard.

LTQ: Um, who is it? (Beckham let out a muffled giggle)
Bang Kieu: It's me, Kieu
LTQ: Um, um, we don't know-
Bang Kieu: Just let me in Quang!

Instantly LTQ open the door to reveal a tired and very sweaty Bang Kieu.

LTQ: How'd you know it was me?
Bang Kieu: No girl sounds like that, only drag queens do
(Minh Tuyet let out a snort)

LTQ closed the door and was following behind Bang Kieu, who turned around and said "By the way, don't ever do that voice...again" LTQ nodded his head. Beckham broke free of Nhu Loan's grasp and was heading toward his dad.

Bang Kieu: Aw not now Beckham, daddy's all sweaty. I need to take a shower
Beckham (holding up his nose): Pepe Le Pew! (Bang Kieu smiled)
Minh Tuyet: So, you found the guy?
Bang Kieu: No
Minh Tuyet: Oh!....all that for nothing huh?
Bang Kieu: Tuyet, I know what you are going to say but it was just something I have to find out about.
Minh Tuyet (filing her nails): Oh I understand perfectly. You risk your life just so you can find out who the man is, who can potentially shoot you in the head. (she tilted her head and let out a false smile)

Bang Kieu didn't want to say another word, he grabbed his clothes from his luggage and headed into the bathroom. He slammed the door and it was all silence again except for Bang Kieu's grunts and shuffling. There were squeaks and followed by water following.

Bang Kieu: WHAT HAPPENED TO ALL THE SOAPS AND SHAMPOO?

Nhu Loan and LTQ both glared at Minh Tuyet, who was still filing her nails. She looked up and groaned. Taking out the toiletries, she knocked on the door and shoved them into Bang Kieu's wet hands.

After Bang Kieu was showered and dressed, everyone grabbed their luggage and headed out. The hotel receptionist had already called a taxi to pick them up and was already there waiting for them after they had handed the keys, Marie had already dealt with the payments earlier and all they needed to do was get on the plane and fly back home.

The Target

2007-12-17T11:19:00.000-08:00

The crowd came pouring out of the stadium instantly: people were running each other over, chairs were turned over, children separated from their parents, Police trying to slowly make their way in. It was utter chaos, Bang Kieu stood onstage searching for his friends and his son. It has been a few minutes after the gunshot and there hasn't been any after that. He didn't want to leave until he had found them safe and alive.

Minh Tuyet ran out stage, she was carrying her bag and Bang Kieu's. She was in such a hurry to get out that she didn't seem to see him standing right in the middle of the stage. Bang kieu heard a faint clacking noise of a high heels and he turned around to find Tuyet shoving her way through the crowd.

Minh Tuyet: OUT OF MY WAY! WHAT'S WRONG WITH YOU? LEGS GLUED TO THE FLOOR? PEOPLE ARE TRYING TO LEAVE HERE!
Bang Kieu: TUYET! TUYET!
Minh Tuyet: Oh Kieu! finally I found you! Nhu Loan and Quang are outside with Beckham.
Bang Kieu(smiling): You know you could have ran out with them
Minh Tuyet: So, I needed to get my stuff. This is a limited edition Hermes bag! they don't make these anymore! and HERE!

She threw his bag at him and marched off. Bang Kieu gave a little chuckle and followed her out. The crowd quickly trickled out of the stadium, making it easier for them to get out. The wounded were still left behind unattended, Bang Kieu had the urge to stay behind and help but Minh Tuyet gave him a glare. They were about to head out the door when Bang Kieu saw a dark figure running across the other direction.

Bang Kieu: Tuyet, tell the others to go to the hotel I would-
Minh Tuyet: NO! NO! you can't!
Bang Kieu: I think I saw the shooter, I must find out who
Minh Tuyet: Who cares!
Bang Kieu: I do!
Minh Tuyet: That's the police job, come on Kieu. For once you don't have to be a hero.
Bang Kieu: I know but I need to find out who that person is. Tell the others to wait for me at the hotel.
Minh Tuyet: Kieu! No!

It was too late, Bang Kieu had already left her side and was following the direction of the shooter. Minh Tuyet would have gone back and followed him but the people behind her were eager to get out, pushing her out of the stadium. She met with Nhu Loan and Quang, who were standing on a bench, looking for their two friends. Their faces grew even more worried when they see only saw Minh Tuyet came out.

Nhu Loan: Where's Bang Kieu?
Minh Tuyet: He went back
Nhu Loan: Why?
Minh Tuyet: He wanted to find out who the killer is
LTQ: It's probably those dumb pirates out for revenge because we stole their boat
NL & MT: NO!
LTQ: well who is it?
Nhu Loan: we don't know
Minh Tuyet: Bang Kieu says to meet him at the hotel
Nhu Loan: Yeah, it's too dangerous for Beckham to be here
LTQ: How about Bang Kieu?
Minh Tuyet: You can stay behind and wait for him
LTQ what if I get shot?
Minh Tuyet: Don't worry, I'll say something nice at your funneral
LTQ: What? You just want me to die!
Nhu Loan: Guys, it is no time for joking! let's get a taxi quick
Beckham: Where's my daddy?
Nhu Loan: Oh sweetie, your dad will come back soon...I hope

Showtime

2007-12-17T00:46:00.000-08:00

The blasting music. The flashing lights. The wild crowds. The moment where there nothing else matters besides the moment itself. Everything, though, flashed by before her eyes and before long her performance was over. Yet, that great feeling of being appreciated and loved by the crowd still lingered. As much as she wanted to remain on the stage, Minh Tuyet bowed to the audiences and thanked them before letting the MCs take over.

As she got to the back of the stage, there was more cheering from her co-workers and friends. Marie came by her side and congratulated her for the great opening. It set mood for the rest of the evening, which went just as good, or even better.
-----------------------------

Half an hour went by since her performance, Minh Tuyet was sitting in the dressing room, watching the performance from the TV they had in there along with many other singers who had already finnished their performance. After that talk the gang had with Bang Kieu, the guy was still reluctant to step out on stage. It's been quite some time since the MC introduced Bang Kieu. They looked lost, turning their heads around trying to figure out why the announced singer's still not on stage yet, even though the music had already started, and so was the singing.

Minh Tuyet: You know what, I'mma have to push that guy on stage. That's the only way he'll ever make it there.
Nhu Loan: Do that. He's hopeless. Sure, people will laugh but it's not like there's anythin else he can do. The make-up artists had already tried their best on his eyebrows. That's already much better than it looked before.
"...Yea." LTQ added.
------------------------------

As soon as he was pushed onto the stage, Bang Kieu expected nothing less than being hit by a wave of laughter and humiliation. He haven't felt this scared ever since his first performance in first grade.

A minute passed by.

Nothing happened.

He let out a sigh of relief, and keep on acting natural. Then suddenly, from somewhere, came a voice calling his name. It sounded like...
"Duck?" Bang Kieu thought and looked around slowly as he finnished the first verse of the song. He turned his head just in time to see Minh Tuyet came running towards him and tackled him down. Everything that happened after that was a blur. One of the lightning device fell from the ceiling. Next thing, he heard some familiar popping noise. He knew what caused the noise and it was no good news.
"SNIPER!" He yelled, forgetting that the microphone was still on.

New episode coming soon

2007-12-03T19:59:00.000-08:00

The last time we left off, our main characters are preparing for the Paris By Night in Korea show, stay tuned to see what happens during a performance...
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A beautiful disaster

2007-10-06T13:57:00.000-07:00

"Next!" Ken said, yawning.

"What? We're only half way through-" Minh Tuyet complained.

"Do I need to hear your idiotic song again? I don't have enough cotton balls to stop my ears from bleeding!" Ken replied.

Marie had to interfere, "But don't you think you need to take a look at the whole song to make sure everything's right?"

Ken: Are you telling me how to do my job? Does Marie thinks she's Ms. Director now?

Marie made no reply. She looked like she was going to snap back at him, but nothing happened. After weeks of rehearsing, she still could not find a way to put up with this director. She regretted listening to that recommendation. But the last time she got in his way, he threatened to quit, and she knows too well that once he does, so will his crew. They worshiped him like their god, something she didn't and would never understand. Since a show could not happen without any crew, Marie gestured for Minh Tuyet listen to the director and get off stage.
----------------------------

Minh Tuyet furiously entered backstage and went to look for her friends. She finally found Nhu Loan and LTQ, none looking too happy and are both very quiet. Nhu Loan was reading a magazine and LTQ was watching TV out of what seemed like a century old device. There was also someone sitting in the corner of the room, reading a Korean newspaper that covered up his face.

Minh Tuyet approached Nhu Loan and asked, "Who's that man?"

"Who?" Nhu Loan jumped a little, and then realized who Minh Tuyet was talking about, "Oh... I don't know. He was here when I stepped in."

she went ahead and asked the stranger, "Hey, who are you?"

He made no reply.

Minh Tuyet was losing her patience. "Hey, you! Can you hear me?"

Without even thinking, Minh Tuyet walked toward the stranger and snatched the newspaper out of his hand. The stranger, alarmed, quickly look down to hide his face. He wore a hat and altogether, made it still impossible to see his face. Minh Tuyet didn't hesitate to snatch the hat off as well. He kept turning away from her but was impossible for her to not see his face now.

"Kieu! What are you doing?!?" Minh Tuyet asked in surprise. "Woa..."

"Yea I now. Don't say it. I know. Don't laugh either!"

It was useless. Minh Tuyet was already laughing hysterically. Interrupted by her laughter, Nhu Loan and LTQ looked up to see what was so funny. And even though they heard what Bang Kieu said about not laughing, they laughed anyway.

Bang Kieu's face turned red and as he was about to stand up and walk out of the room, Marie stepped in. She didn't laugh, but had an unpleasant look on her face,
"WHAT IN THE WORLD DID YOU DO TO YOUR EYEBROWS?!?"

"The stupid director made me! And there was an accident at the waxing place. It's your fault. You should've let me borrow the translator!" Bang Kieu said in his defense.

Marie couldn't help but stare at the, barely visible, thin lines, that are now Bang Kieu's eyebrows.

"YOU LOOK RIDICULOUSLY FEMININE!"

"Ahh don't even go there!"

But the nightmare didn't end there for Bang Kieu. He knew sooner or later he'll have to go onstage and then he'll have to face all his coworkers and all the audiences. He felt like choking the director to death.

Sleepless Nights

2007-10-06T13:53:00.001-07:00

The four dragged themselves to their room after the long day. No one talked to anyone for the rest of the night. Everyone was too tired to anyways, so they all went to bed early--everyone except for Nhu Loan. She was the only one who couldn't sleep. She tossed and turn around in her bed but no matter what she do, sleep will not come to her. Suddenly, she felt thirsty so she got up to get a glass of water. It was then when she saw a shadow of someone outside on the balcony. She was so scared that she dropped the empty glass she was holding in her hand. It broke as it hit the hard wooden floor and made a loud noise. Without thinking, Nhu Loan ran out of her room and knocked on the room next door frantically, yelling, "Help!"
--------------------------------

LTQ was slowly dozing off to sleep when someone came knocking on his door. Great, just when the pill started to work, he thought. He took his time but as soon as he realized the voice was Nhu Loan's and that she was needing help, he rushed to the door.

LTQ: What happened?

Nhu Loan never realized that she had knocked on LTQ's door until that moment. She paused for a minute, regretting doing it, and went on, "Er- there's someone on my balcony..."

He quickly went to her room to look.

LTQ: There's no one.

Nhu Loan: But I swear that I saw someone!

Bang Kieu and Minh Tuyet appeared at the door. Apparently, all the noises and comotions woke them up, too.

Bang Kieu: (sleepily) What's going on? Do you know how long it took for me to get Beckham to go to sleep?!?... Wait a minute, what are you doing in Nhu Loan's room?

The four exchanged looks LTQ suddenly realized that he had forgotten to put on a shirt as he was in such a hurry and now he was standing very close to Nhu Loan, who had on very short shorts and a shirt that was almost see-through. It was a scene that would surely give people the wrong impression.

LTQ & NL: No, it's-

Minh Tuyet: OH I SEE! GETTING YOUR FREAK ON IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT!

Bang Kieu: Tuyet, calm down

Minh Tuyet rolled up her pajamas' sleeves edging closer toward him, not giving the guy any chance to response. He took several steps back, trying to dodge but instead stepped on the broken glasses lying on the floor. As a result, he fell flat on his back, with Minh Tuyet on top of him and broken pieces of glass in his foot. Suddenly, a flash light went off from the balcony.

Nhu Loan: Paparazzis! I told you there was someone!

LTQ: OW! GET OFF ME!

Bang Kieu: You're bleeding!
---------------------------------------

Bang Kieu, LTQ, Minh Tuyet, and Nhu Loan was called to see Marie at 7 in the morning. They were barely awake when they arrived in her room--no one went to sleep until 4 in the morning.

"Come here and take a look," Marie said, pointing at her laptop's screen. It was the front page of Juicy Magazine's website. "I think you guys own me an explaination?"

The four looked at the screen, and saw what they knew was coming: their picture in Nhu Loan's room last night, with Minh Tuyet on top of LTQ in such a pose that would allow those reporters at Juicy Magazine write up the most unimaginable stories.

Nhu Loan felt that there was nothing to hide from Marie, and that they did nothing wrong, so she told her the story, from start to finnish. "...so we had to take him to the hospital at 1 in the morning to take the little pieces of glass in his foot out. We barely had any sleep. And I can't believe they sent people to spy on us even when we're in Korea!"

Marie considered the story for a moment, she found it hard to believe but didn't want to waste any more time quarelling with them. The show's the most important thing now. "I'll let matters rest this time. It's not like Tuyet and Quang are very close anyways, not through what I've seen so far. Now get ready. The rehearsal starts at 7:30."

The Director

2007-10-06T12:21:00.001-07:00

Bang Kieu carried his son in his arms as he and Luong Tung Quang entered the grand stadium. It was packed with crew members running around. The stage was huge, bigger than what both guys were used to back home. After dropping off their stuff in a dressing room, they found Marie talking to someone, not just one but two girls. Bang Kieu didn't have to look to tell who they are.

Bang Kieu: Hey Marie...ladies (nodding)

Minh Tuyet: (nodded)

Nhu Loan: (nodded)

Marie: Kieu, we've got a day before the shows starts! How are you guys gonna rehearse?

LTQ: Don't worry, we'll practice more on our own.

Marie: I don't care how you do it, but please be prepared! Now I would like to introduce our new director.

She tapped on someone's shoulder who turned around instantly. The man looked startled to see unfamiliar faces in front of him.

Director: Who are these people?

Marie: They are the four missing singers, they came back-

Director: From a vacation, huh? I knew it!

Marie: No, they just got lost on their way-

The director didn't hear what Marie as said but instead focus his attention the four standing before him. He glared at them all.

Director (at Bang Kieu): YOU ARE FAT!

(at Nhu Loan): You look like a grasshopper

Marie interfered before he can get to Minh Tuyet and LTQ, "Please, Ken. Save it for later. Now they gotta get ready to rehearse. Anyways, here is Minh Tuyet, Bang Kieu, Nhu Loan, Luong Tung Quang. Guys, meet Ken. Our director"

Bang Kieu and Nhu Loan was still too confused and rather shocked to say anything, whereas Minh Tuyet and LTQ managed to softly slip out a "Hi." LTQ went as far as offering his hand but Ken only looked, no, gawked at them sternly and refused to shake hands. LTQ withdrew his hand awkwardly as Marie broke the uneasy silence by telling them to go get ready.
--------------------------

Bang Kieu: That bastard just called me fat!?!

Nhu Loan: Please, you're a guy, no need to get all offended about it. I'm the one who should be complaining. Who does he think he is?

LTQ: A director.

Nhu Loan made no reply but only started to walk faster after glancing at him annoyingly. She reached the dressing room and slammed the door as she went inside. Minh Tuyet quickly followed her.

Bang Kieu shooked his head, "Women!... why is she acting like this all of a sudden? Surely it's not because of the bathroom incident-"

"She had a fight with someone on the phone. And jugding on the way she talked to the person, I'm guessing it's her ex, wanting to get her back," LTQ replied.

"Why are you so...observant all of a sudden?"

"It's just common sense!"

Bang Kieu wanted to say something back but decided that it was best to keep his mouth shut.
--------------------------

Ken: FINALLY! (sarcastically) That was VERY fast.

Nhu Loan: But we had to pick out the costumes!

Ken: Excuses. Now, who's up first?

Bang Kieu: We don't even know what we're singing!

Ken face was stoned and his grip on the paper he was holding in his hand tightened. Marie came to the rescue again, "Guys, here is what you're going to sing-"

Ken: Marie, I don't think this is going to work. I want to them out of the show!

Marie: No! Absolutely not! Half of the audience is here for these four. I rather have them messing up onstage rather than not have them there at all.

Ken said nothing, his face still stoned. He turned around and sat down in one of the chairs, facing the stage.

Marie: Minh Tuyet, you're first. You're doing the opening.

Minh Tuyet: WHAT?!?

Ken: LOOK, if you don't want to, get off stage and leave! It's easy as that.

Minh Tuyet: How am I supposed to learn all this dance moves as well as the song in one day?

Ken: You PRACTICE. Do it OVER and OVER again until you get it. Seriously, dear, are you brain dead or what? So for the meantime, go to the choreographer. Who's next?

LTQ: Me.

Ken: You got a ballad.You know what to do. Oh, go to sleep right after the rehearsal. I'm sure make-up won't be able to cover up those dark circles around your eyes. You look like a freaking ghost!

Ken ignored LTQ's complaints and went to the next victim, eh, singer: I see that Grasshopper is next. You will be doing this number with Loan Chau so go look for her and ask for help.

Nhu Loan: But you're the director-

Ken, again, ignored the complaints and went to Bang Kieu: Okay, you got another ballad with no dancers and an interview afterwards. I suppose you know what to do. By the way, go get your eyebrows waxed so that it make your face look a little skinnier and remember to skip all the meals until showtime.

Bang Kieu: Wax my eyebrows and skip meals? What in the world?!?

Ken: Questions and more questions. Singers don't ask questions, they just sing! SO GO DO YOUR JOB while I choke down on another eggroll.

LTQ: Wow, compared to him, Marie is like Mother Theresa.

Minh Tuyet: Oh Shut up Quang!

Oops

2007-09-15T07:34:00.000-07:00

Bang Kieu couldn't believe it. They had just managed to get themselves out of a big mess and now have run into another one. It seems like bad luck wouldn't stop following them.
They arrived at the police station. As Bang Kieu stepped out of the car, a piece of paper flew out of nowhere and landed on his face. He removed it annoyingly and was going to throw it away but stopped himself. It was the Paris by Night's flyer! He paused and looked for the phone number of the venue on the flyer.

"Move!" The police pushed him forward and snatched the flyer out of his hand. Luckily, he had already memorized the number.

"Hey, aren't we allowed to make one phone call?" Bang Kieu asked.

The police merely nodded and walked him to a room with a telephone.

"Be quick!" He said.

Bang Kieu didn't need to be told so. He wanted to get out of that place more than anyone.

---------------------------
To his anticipation, Marie came to the rescue. She sounded overly excited and relieved on the phone, though it seems like she had managed to change back to the typical Marie by the time the four meet her.

"I bailed you guys out. Bang Kieu had explained the story over the phone." She said as they stepped out of the police station.

"We love you!" The four said, running to hug their boss. It was something that they would have never done in normal circumstances.

"PLEASE! GET OFF!" She said, jerking them off. "How many days did you guys go without a decent bath??"

They quickly obeyed her and took several steps back.

"Let's go back to the hotel and get you guys ready for the rehearsals."

LTQ: Today? We just got back today!

Minh Tuyet: I can hardly stand!

Nhu Loan: I'm starving!

Bang Kieu: Can't we have at least a day off?

Marie: Woa, I don't care. You guys missed a week of rehearsals already! Be there at 4 this afternoon! For now, I'll take you back to the hotel.

----------------------------------------
The rest of the gang was waiting impatiently for Bang Kieu and his son in the hotel lobby. It was almost four and they were nowhere to be seen.

"What's taking him so long?" LTQ complained again for the hundredth time.

"How are we supposed to know? Stop asking stupid questions!" Minh Tuyet snapped back.

The two went on aruing as Nhu Loan sat quietly in a corner by herself with her ears glued to the new phone that she just bought 10 minutes ago from the store across the street. Suddenly, she yelled into the phone so loudly that made everyone jumped, "YOU KNOW WHAT, I DON'T EVEN CARE ANYMORE!" She then hung up and wiped away the tears coming out of her eyes. It took her awhile to get herself together and realized everyone in the lobby was looking at her. Feeling awkward, she slowly gather her stuff and headed to the restroom as Bang Kieu and Beckham stepped into the lobby.

Bang Kieu: What's wrong with her?

Minh Tuyet: That doesn't matter! We're already late, let's get going!

LTQ: Woa, what are you talking about? She's your friend. I better go check on her.

With that said, he went into the restroom to find Nhu Loan as a devilish grin spread across Minh Tuyet's face. Just like she had aniticipated, girls came screaming out of the room. The knucklehead had forgotten that it was the girl's restroom. It didn't take long before he came out, dodging a flying slipper that just barely miss his head. Nhu Loan was right after him, using her purse as the weapon to attack the pervert who just entered the ladies' room--it was a scene Minh Tuyet will never forget.

"I'm sorry! I didn't mean to-"

"All of you men are alike! TAKE THIS!"

Bang Kieu had to interfere before Nhu Loan could do any more brain damage to LTQ. "He was just checking to see if you're okay."

"You're siding with him! Go away before I hit you too!"

They were all surprised at how grumpy Nhu Loan was. This is simply not her normal self.

Minh Tuyet: Oh, let's not waste our time here, Loan. They're not worth it!

LTQ: Loey-

Nhu Loan: DO NOT CALL ME THAT!

She stormed out of the hotel with Minh Tuyet by her side and left on a cab.

Trouble at the Harbor

2007-09-08T10:58:00.000-07:00

The boat pulled up the harbor of South Korea, it was like finding a parking space at a local mall. The docks were filled with boats of every kind; big ones, small ones, some too small to even see.

LTQ: There's no space at all!

Nhu Loan: LOOK! There's one right there.

Minh Tuyet: No, can't you see that old man getting off the small boat?

LTQ: There's a space there!

Nhu Loan: A boat is about to park there-

Minh Tuyet: How about that one?

LTQ: No, that one!

Nhu Loan: There's one!

Bang Kieu: GUYS GUYS YOU ARE CONFUSING ME!!!!!!!

He managed to find a parking space without their help. Bang Kieu have never driven a boat before but is an excellent driver. He put his parking skills to the test, swerving to the right and then left so he can squeeze into a parking spot. After tying the boat up Bang Kieu helped everyone out onto the dock. They were met by an angry fisherman who didn't seem pleased that they stole his parking space,behind him stood a police officer.

Bang Kieu (laughing nervously): What's the problem officer?

Officer: You have parked in a registered parking space

LTQ: it's only temporary sir, we just-

Officer: Hold on a minute.

Another officer came up to him and whispered something in his ear. He expression change into a frown.
Officer: I'm sorry but I would have to arrest you all.

Minh Tuyet: FOR WHAT? Just because we stole some man's space?

Officer: I believe it's more than that...this is a stolen boat.

Everyone: WHAT?

Officer: this boat has been missing for 50 years.

It was right after he said this that the boat suddenly collapsed into pieces sinking down until it's no longer visible. The gang was so glad that this didn't happen earlier and was thankful that they're still alive. However, the officer didn't hesitate, and before they can say anything, four officers appeared to hand cuff the four. Beckham was carried by the Officer in to his car.
Minh Tuyet: WHAT'S THE BIG DEAL? IT SANK! WHY DO YOU CARE ABOUT SOME RUSTY ANCIENT BOAT ANYWAYS! YOU'RE HURTING ME! I SWEAR I WILL KICK-
The door slammed shut and the cars began driving away and heading to the local police station. It would be the gang's second time at a police station together.

Back On Track

2007-09-01T11:12:00.001-07:00

Graphics by Bubble Tea Designs

Everyone was assigned to keep their eye in a specific direction to make sure that anyone come by would be noticed. It wasn't long until Bang Kieu noticed that little black dot arising from the horizon and called out to everyone else.

LTQ: It's a ship!!! We're saved!!

Nhu Loan: Not so fast. They could be the pilot's men. What if they also want to kill us?

Bang Kieu: We have to take our chances. We've gone this far, can't turn back now. I'll come out there and negotiate with them.

Minh Tuyet: You should think about Beckham too. What if something happens to you? I suggest we send the airhead! (pointing at LTQ)

Nhu Loan: You don't want to get us all killed, do you? All he does is babbling nonsense!

LTQ: Hey! I can negotiate... If you don't trust me, why don't you go? (looking at Minh Tuyet and Nhu Loan)

Bang Kieu: They're girls. It's too dangerous.

All: Who will go then??

Beckham: Play rock paper sciccors.

Nhu Loan: Hey that's really smart! Let's do that. Whoever lose must go.
-------------------------------

LTQ reluctantly put on the air tank and mumbled something under his breath before going into the water. The rest did nothing but watch and wished him good luck (except for Minh Tuyet, who bid him farewell.)

The ship was farther away than he thought. He was exhausted by the time he reached it. They threw down a rope to pull him up.

"The money?" A tall, long-haired man said. He's probably the captain of the ship.

"Here" LTQ said, giving him half of the cash. The captain didn't seem to realize the difference of LTQ's voice and the pilot's.

"It's only half the amount you promised."

"Um... let's go downstairs to continue our negotiation. I- have a... um... phobia of the sun"

The men looked confused. Some scratched their head and looked around. "Phobia?" The guy who seemed to be the captian stepped up and said,

"We're pirates. Don't play any tricks. If there isn't enough money. I'll feed you to the sharks."

LTQ was rather shocked to find that out. Pirates? What? How could that be? I'm dead. Hundred of thoughts flashed around in his head. Luckily he managed to push them away and remained calm. He's gone too far now. Can't turn back.

LTQ: There's no trick. Let's go down there.

They hurriedly went down the stairs. LTQ was the last to come down. He suddenly stopped and quickly closed the steel gates. It was such a simple trick that the pirates wasn't aware of it. They started yelling at him, spitting out curse words he didn't even understand. He ignored them and waved the signal to his friends. Bang Kieu was waving back, shouting something that was inaudible to him. Then it hit him. How will they be able to get to the ship? He must get the ship closer to the island. But how?

Before he could think of anything, there was the sound of gunshots and the gate busted open. He had forgotten that these are pirates and must carry guns with them. They rushed out in fury and quickly captured him.

"Think you can get away with this? What an idiot!" The captain said, laughing crazily. "Feed him to the shark"

LTQ tried hard to escape but several men was holding him, making it impossible to escape.

"Wait!" He yelled desparately. "Don't you want to know where the buried treasure is?"

They stopped but still didn't let him go.

Captain: Do you think we are stupid?

LTQ: I mean there's this "Cave of Wonders" packed full of golds and jewels...It used to belong to a King who hid it on a deserted island so no one would find it and also-

Captain: SHUT UP! you know you talk too much...but you got me hooked

The boat took a large U-turn and headed towards the island. Once they got to the shore, the pirates immediately got off. LTQ had given them directions on how to get to the cave.

Captain: Aren't you coming along?

LTQ: No, I have to watch over the boat-

Captain: One of my men would.

LTQ: You don't trust me?

They stared each other down but the result didn't changed. One of the pirates stayed behind with LTQ as the rest of the crew went out in search for treasure. The pirate slumped down on one of the plush couches reading a magazine upside down. LTQ took the walkie talkie from the table and headed upstairs to the deck. He contacted Bang Kieu and explained to him the whole situation, Bang Kieu knew what to do next.

The pirate had dosed off a little, he heard some thing wet splashing against his face. Growling and fluttering his eyes, he finally opened them to reveal Bang Kieu's face looking straight at him.

Freaking out, he jumped up to attacked but Bang Kieu already had the pirate's head in his hands, he gave a quick twist with his wrist and the pirate was immediately dead.

LTQ: Woah cool! where did you learn to do that?

Bang Kieu: Let's just say I had some practice.

LTQ ushered the girls in to the boat with Nhu Loan carrying little Beckham. Bang Kieu quickly tossed the pirate out the window before his son sees it.

Bang Kieu: So, off to korea?

Everyone nodded as Bang Kieu took charge of the steering wheel and started the boat. They were leaving the rest of the pirates behind and also leaving the island.

Minh Tuyet: I wonder how Marie would react?

The Plan

2007-08-31T15:32:00.000-07:00

LTQ went to get the rest of the gang and explained the situation to them on the way. Everyone was doubtful of the story. It was hard to believe that the pilot, a man they had never known before, would attack LTQ. It was even harder to believe that LTQ had actually killed him all by himself.

"If you don't believe me, fine. Just come and see!" LTQ said.

To their surprised, LTQ was telling the truth. Bang Kieu had to once again cover his son's eyes to keep him from seeing the horrid scene.

"Get the body away!" Bang Kieu told the others.

LTQ: You shouldn't have bring him along!

Nhu Loan: Well, what you said was hard to believe.

Minh Tuyet: Well, you killed him, so you clean it up!

LTQ gave out a sigh before dragging the body into the bushes. The walkie talkie and something wrapped inside a piece of paper fell out from the body as he did. Minh Tuyet and Nhu Loan was reluctant to pick them up, as they were stained with blood. Bang Kieu let go of his son and went to take a look at the objects as soon as the dead body was out of sight. He unwrapped the paper to reveal a stack of cash inside. The wrapping paper itself was a map. Someone had circled a spot on the map with red ink and marked another spot with a X.

"This must be where we are," Bang Kieu said, pointing at the red circle. "The other spot is out in the ocean."

Nhu Loan: Woa, that's really far away from mainland!!

LTQ came out after dumping the body in some bushes, "Well, the pilot was about to take a swimming trip when I came. He was putting on an air tank. If mainland was that far away, why would he be so stupid to even try?"

Minh Tuyet: Wow, did you get hit in the head really hard? That's like the first smart thing I've heard you say in a long time.

LTQ ignored her and went on saying, "He was talking to someone on the walkie talkie too. The other guy mentioned something about a plan--whatever "plan" it was. But anyways, it means that there are people somewhere not far from here."

Minh Tuyet: Who are you? and what have you done to knucklehead?

Bang Kieu; Tuyet, stop it. He's right. But since there's the walkie talkie, let's contact that man and ask for help.

LTQ: Wait. What if he's the pilot's man? What if he also wants to kill us?

Nhu Loan: But we should at least try! It's our only chance off this island.

Bang Kieu cleared his throat and turned on the walkie talkie, "Are you there? Over."

"Woa.. that really sounds like the pilot!" LTQ exclaimed.

Minh Tuyet: Of course. Kieu's talented--unlike someone.

Bang Kieu gave them a scold that shut both of them up before the reply from the other line came, "Yes. Over."

"Continue with the plan. Over."

"So what now? Do I have to come in or are you still going to swim out here? Over."

"Come in. Over."

Nhu Loan: So what do we do now?

Bang Kieu: We wait.

The Escape

2007-08-30T09:31:00.000-07:00

(Nhu Loan's diary)
Day 2
Oh my gosh, it's been a long time since I wrote! We have been so busy gathering food and setting up the cave. Finally a place to hide from the rain and harsh winds! Everyone's been doing well...no I'm exaggerating (lol) Minh Tuyet is fussing about how the humidity is damaging her hair, Bang Kieu is frustrated that he couldn't make enough containers to store all the water from the rain, Beckham is starting to grow bored with the place, LTQ is having a hard time trying to catch those nice big juicy crabs...surprisingly they run pretty fast! and me I am just plain home sick. I miss my apartment, I miss my fans, I miss being able to walk out and just meet people! Although this place is like a tropical paradise, it doesn't feel like a vacation when you know you can't leave when you want to...

Until then...
Love,
Nhu Loan

-------------------------------
(Luong Tung Quang)
LTQ was walking the sandy beaches on the other side of the island. It was a very hot sunny day and he was sweating like crazy but he was determined to find some decent food to eat... he was getting sick of eating tuna fishes. Staggering around, he stumbled over little rocks and seashells. Just then he saw something moving in the distance. It was clearly a figure of a human being. With a closer look, he can see it's the pilot. Running in excitement, he called out to him,

LTQ: HEY!

The pilot turned around. He was about to strap his air tank on when LTQ approached him. The pilot realized that LTQ was one of the four on the plane. "But the plane crashed...I thought they wouldn't survive..." he thought to himself. A huge devilish grin spread across his face.

Pilot: Hey! I thought you didn't survive. Are your friends okay?

LTQ: They are fine. We found a cave and have been surviving off the island. So it turns out no one was killed in this plane crash at all!

Pilot: Oh really, that is amazing!

LTQ: I know! By the way, how did you make it? We couldn't find you and it has been days.

Pilot: I don't know. I woke up finding myself here. For some reason I ended up on the other side of the island.

LTQ thought for a moment and was observant for the first time in a long while, "So how did you get the scuba diving equipment?"

Pilot: It was in the plane, I always carry it just in case. So where are your friends?

LTQ didn't want to change the subject, "At the cave... so are you going to go scuba-diving?"

The pilot was unprepared for the question and was speechless. Suddenly, the walkie talkie attached to his belt made a buzzing sound, and before the pilot could do anything, a man's voice spoke out of it,

Walkie Talkie: Sir? sir? are you there? Everything is going according to the plan-

The pilot quickly turned it off before the guy could say anything else. His unfailing devilish grin began to fade as he gave out a nervous chuckle.

LTQ: What plan?

The pilot panicked. He quickly bend down to grab a knife from the inside of his boot and charges right into LTQ. The pilot tries to take a stab at him but LTQ manages to move away, dodging every strike attempted.

"Wow it pays off to be skinny!" LTQ thought to himself.

He finally repaid the hostility with a punch in the pilot's face as the man slowly staggered back. He had a shocked looked on his face. From what he heard, LTQ wouldn't fight back and he should be the easiest one to take care of.

The pilot was growing impatient. He wanted LTQ dead. He dropped his knife and tackled LTQ to the ground. Sitting on top of LTQ, the pilot started punching him. Then he attempted to choke the singer with his bare hands. Gasping for breath, LTQ struggled to fight back or do anything to stop the pilot from killing him. But the guy weighted a ton and no matter how hard he try to break free of his grip, it was useless. He saw a rock beside him and quickly grabbed it. He wasted no time, smashing the rock into the pilot's head which made him collapse to the ground, moaning in pain.

The pilot slowly got up, using the boulder for support. LTQ kicked him hard in the stomach again and again. The pilot was wearing down and was too tired to fight back. LTQ left him resting on the rock and turned around to pick up the knife. The pilot seized his opportunity and charged right into LTQ from behind, trying to get the knife back. There were many struggling between the two until the pilot felt something hit him.

He froze.

Standing there, stunned, blood gushed like crazy out from his under his arm where LTQ had cut him with the knife. Losing blood very fast, the pilot slowly fell to his knees and eventually to the ground. He turned pale and all LTQ did was watched. It didn't take long until his heart stopped beating the body laid there motionless.

"Wow, that trick from the movie really works," LTQ said to himself. Though he was worn out from the fight, he was too calm that he had a hard time convincing himself he just once again killed a human being.

I remember...

2007-08-29T11:52:00.000-07:00

Bang Kieu sat there alone on the shore, staring off into the horizon. The waters are calm, the seagulls were no where in site; a perfect moment to reflect on life. Beckham saw his dad sitting there all alone. Running up to him, he surprised his dad from behind

"Daddy! what you doing alone?"

Bang Kieu turned to his son, putting his arm around Beckham and craddling him in his arms. He didn't said a word. Beckham was growing impatient

"You didn't answer my question!"

Bang Kieu looked down to the smiling Beckham, he reminded so much of himself. He couldn't help but smile.

" Just remembering son..." he replied finally

"About what?"

Bang Kieu took a deep breath and begin rocking his son back and forth

"Oh, just the old times...I remember when I was your age I kissed a girl..."

"Eww daddy you kissed a girl?"

"(laughs) yeah she yelled at me after that though"

"(laughs) Who was she?"

Bang Kieu paused and leaned down to whisper something in Beckham's ear, the little boy's eyes widen in joy and he couldn't help but giggle.

"Remember Beckham, it's a secret so don't tell anyone...got it?"

"but does Auntie remember this?"

"She tries to forget it...but remember don't say anything"

"Okay Daddy!"

Bang Kieu smiled and ruffled his son's hair, it was one of those moments he was glad the plane crashed. He was able to spend more time with his son and he has his best friends with him, life can get any better than this.
********************************************************************
Minh Tuyet: Gosh Quang, it's not that high up there!

LTQ: Easy for you to say, you're down there!

Nhu Loan: Aw the coconuts looks so good

LTQ edged inch by inch, bending the tree little by little. He held onto the tree as if he was dangling off of a five story building. He has never climbed trees before in his life and the thought of falling is just unbearable to him.

Minh Tuyet: You know how long it has been? AN HOUR! and yet you're still not even there yet!

LTQ: Why don't you do it yourself!

Nhu Loan: Maybe we should just forget about it

Minh Tuyet: NO! I've waited so long under the hot sun for nothing!

Nhu Loan: There's always water back at the-

Minh Tuyet: I want a coconut!

LTQ begins to move another inch, Nhu Loan gave him encouragement which motivated him to keep going. He managed to reach to the very top, wrapping his legs around the tree to keep him from falling. He begins dropping coconuts down like crazy forcing Minh Tuyet and Nhu Loan to run all over to retrieve them.

Nhu Loan: Great job Quang! this would last us a few days!

Minh Tuyet: Ok knucklehead, time to get down

Nhu Loan: What's the matter?

LTQ: I don't know how!

Easier said than done

2007-08-28T03:07:00.000-07:00

Graphic by Bubble Tea Designs

Bang Kieu have managed to found a cave while searching for some bedding materials. It wasn't far away from their original site and was large enough to fill all five of them comfortably. Nhu Loan and Minh Tuyet went out to gather firewood while LTQ went fishing. Bang Kieu sat there keeping the fire going, Beckham's laughs can be heard in the background.

Bang Kieu: Beckham, remember stay where you see light okay?

Beckham: Ok!

Nhu Loan entered the cave with a heaping pile of twigs. She dropped them beside Bang Kieu with a big sigh. Bang Kieu looked up, expecting to see Minh Tuyet and Nhu Loan but only one was there,

Bang Kieu: Where's Minh Tuyet?

Nhu Loan: Oh We saw LTQ on our way back...she and him- you know.

Bang Kieu: (sigh) what's the problem now?

Nhu Loan: Fish

Bang Kieu: Fish?

Nhu Loan: Yeah, he was catching a lot of small ones. She complained and threw them back to the ocean and you know what happens next (smiling)

Bang Kieu let out another sigh, this time louder and more annoyed. Beckham had grew tired running around and was sleeping on a pile of leaves Bang Kieu had made as a bed earlier. Nhu Loan explored the cave. Even though it wasn't that large, it was still fun for her.

Nhu Loan: HEY LOOK!

Bang Kieu: What?

Nhu Loan: Cave paintings! wow they look so ancient and the stick drawings seem to tell a story. Wow, isn't this exciting? Someone had stayed here before us!

Bang Kieu: (paused) No that's just Beckham's drawings with a burnt stick earlier

Nhu Loan: Oh (in disappointment and a bit embarrassed)

Minh Tuyet and LTQ stormed in, both were furious at each other.

LTQ: You didn't have to let them go!

Minh Tuyet: How could we eat a bunch of goldfishes?

LTQ: They are not goldfishes!

Minh Tuyet: You expect us to be full with those things?

LTQ: DO YOU KNOW HOW LONG IT TOOK ME TO CATCH THEM?

Minh Tuyet: Wow, you must really suck then!

Bang Kieu: Enough! please keep it down, Beckham is sleeping. I'll do the fishing!

He grabbed the fishing pole out of LTQ's hands and headed out.
--------------------------

After dinner everyone gathered around the fire. No one said anything for awhile. Though each had much to say, it was impossible to get the word out. Beckham seemed to be the only one who didn't have the same problem.

"I want candy," he said randomly. But to their surprise, everyone made a conversation out of it,

"I want new clothes"

"I want a decent bath..."

"I want real food!"

"Am I the only one who thinks this is also a good thing?" Bang Kieu said, sounding rather annoyed at his friend's compaints. "I get to spend time with my family and friends more. There's no one watching us. No paparazzis. No crazy fans. No stalker... Isn't it a good thing?"

"Yea..." Nhu Loan replied weakly, "But I miss the civilized life too. It's so hopeless now. We're probably going to die here."

Everyone looked at her. It was obvious that they didn't like what she just said.

"It doesn't help being so low-spirited either. We still have a chance. We'll think of a way to get off this island," LTQ comforted her.

"Easier said than done," Minh Tuyet said mockingly.

"Will you please stop going against everything I say!"

"I'm merely stating the truth"

"PLEASE! GUYS!" Bang Kieu and Nhu Loan yelled in unison.

LTQ and Minh Tuyet grew quiet and gave each other a look before turning away. No one said anything for the rest of the night.

Nhu Loan's Diary

2007-08-25T11:43:00.001-07:00

Graphic done by Bubble Tea Designs

(Nhu Loan's diary)
Day 1
It's been several days (I don't know exactly how many) since we were stranded on this island. Thank God everyone was safe and sound--except for the pilot who is missing. Still, we were lucky that the jet went down near the coast of this island or else we would have drowned in the ocean. Yesterday we swam out to the jet to find anything that can still be use. Anything would be good now, since we're stuck on an island with no sight of any human life and there are nothing but ocean and ocean that surrounds the place. My life and career is once again put on hold. If it wasn't for this, I'll be in Korea by now--should have just taken the regular air planes rather than renting a private jet :( I wonder what food Tuyet and Quang are bringing back. I'm hungry........

Love,
Nhu Loan

-----------------------------------
(Minh Tuyet & Luong Tung Quang)

Luong Tung Quang: Move your head!

Minh Tuyet: No, why don't you?

Luong Tung Quang: He's gonna run away!

Minh Tuyet: How do you know it's a he?

Luong Tung Quang: IT'S JUST A CRAB WHO CARES!

The crab shifted its eyes toward the two strangers hovering over him. Sensing danger, the crab immediately crawled away as fast as he can and into a hole.

Minh Tuyet: LOOK AT WHAT YOU DID!

Luong Tung Quang: Me? You should have let me catch him!

Minh Tuyet: Now what do we do?

The two began heading back and started thinking of excuses to explain why they came back empty handed.
"The crab was running away and Quang threw a huge rock at it, so it ended up smashing the poor crab into pieces," Minh Tuyet thought to herself.
"Tuyet wanted the crab all to herself and she said that if she can't have it all then no one is having it" would be LTQ's excuse. Too deep in his thoughts, LTQ stepped on something painfully. Seeing him hoping on one foot while rubbing the wounded one, Minh Tuyet laughed in amusement until she saw what he had stepped on.

"OYSTERS!" She exclaimed in excitement.

"Damn! I was hoping for crawfish" LTQ complained as Minh Tuyet ignored him and went into the water to gather them.

-----------------------------------
(Bang Kieu)
"Geez, Loan! What are you doing? We...well, I can use some help!" Bang Kieu said as he realized that he was the only one working. LTQ and Minh Tuyet were no where to be seen.

"Okay, okay! I'm coming." Nhu Loan replied and quickly hide her notebook under the leaves that covered the ground of the cave that were now their shelter. "What do you need me to do?"

"Bring these boxes inside. The waves probably brought them in from the jet." Bang Kieu pointed at the big wooden boxes lying on the ground around him.

"What are they?" Nhu Loan asked, picking them up. They were a lot lighter than they looks.

"I don't know. We'll find out later...if I can figure out a way to open it. There are two more out there."

"So where's Minh Tuyet and Luong Tung Quang?

"Ah I don't know, I sent them to look for food"

"You actually trust them?" (laughs)

"Well I can't leave Beckham behind"

"I guess..." Nhu Loan said and sat down again. It didn't take her long to move all the boxes inside. She searched for the notebook and resumed writing.

--------------------------------
(Nhu Loan's Diary)
It all happened so fast. They're all a blur now. First, it was the kidnapping incident, and then Minh Tuyet getting shot by a drunken man (in the most unlikliest of all places--her butt!!), and now the plane crash. What more unfortunate events can continue to happen? It's like ever since I came to Mason City, there was never a day to rest. Something always happen. I wonder when we can get off this island. Marrie must be worried--possibly for her show rather than us--so she'll be sending people to look for us. But how? It's so hopeless. We don't even know where we are.
Let's put those scary thoughts away for now....

Coming Soon

Paris By Night 89 preview!

2007-08-22T21:46:00.000-07:00

PBN 89

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Bumpy Ride

2007-08-18T12:07:00.000-07:00

To their surprise, the plane wasn't as small as they had expected. However, it was old--or at least looked like it. Some of the seats was torn in several places. Plus, they squeaked when someone sit down. The whole place was covered with a thin layer of dust. There was no flight attendant, and only one pilot. LTQ didn't like it at all.

"You know what, I'm gettin off this plane. Rather be a day late."

As soon as the others heard him, they quickly ran him down. With the weight of three adults and a little kid, LTQ had no choice but to fall flat on his face.

Minh Tuyet: That felt good.

Bang Kieu: You're NOT leaving this plane. How do you expect us to explain to Marie when we get there? Besides, you're the new kid here. You can get fired easily.

Nhu Loan: He has a point.

LTQ: This plane looks like it's 100 years old! That pilot too! We might crash!

Nhu Loan: Don't say that, it's bad luck!

As they continue to quarrel, no one noticed that the seat belt light was on. The plane, even though looks old, ran so smoothly that they didn't notice that it was moving. It was rather hard to hear the engine roaming over their bickerings. All of a sudden, the plane took off, causing everyone to fall to the back of that cabin.

"What the-"

"Shut up! We've got kid here!"

"OW!"

They quickly got up and started rushing toward the nearest seats. Everyone put on their seat belt but then realized that the thing was too old and wouldn't work without a fight. It took them several minutes of struggling to get it done.

Bang Kieu: What kind of plane is this? Usually people spend an hour explaining and getting ready before the plane takes off!

LTQ: I told you-

Nhu Loan: It's too late to turn back now.

Minh Tuyet: I'm going to sue the pilot!
--------------------------

Shortly after the plane took off, everyone fell asleep. They were exhausted over the last few days and it was impossible to not do so. Ever since that second when they step out of the police station, there was never a day of rest--except for Minh Tuyet who was in the hospital, but she too, had to put up with the hospital staff who were, mostly, her fans. Apparently, the kidnap-Jack incident had made the five of them, including little Beckham, the most-wanted target of paparazzis. There were endless hours of hiding and running. However, their time in heaven was cut short when Beckham burst out crying.

"What's wrong, son?" Bang Kieu said sleepily, ignoring his piss-off, mumbling friends.

"I'm hungry" He replied, still crying.

Ah...where can I find food on this plane? He thought. "Stay here, okay? Daddy will be back soon" Bang Kieu told his son before taking off his seat belt. He tried not to fall as he clumsily found his way up the aisle. The plane was swaying.

He reached the door that leads to the cock pit and knocked on it. The door opened with a squeak, there was only one pilot flying the plane. Before Bang Kieu can say anything,

Pilot: There's food in the back of the plane, don't ever bother me up here!

Bang Kieu: Um...er I'm sorry.

He closed the door and headed toward the back of the plane to find a small box of energy bars. He shook his head in disgust. It was certainly not worth the price they paid. He brought back a handful of bars, passing them to his friends as he head back to his seat. He broke the energy bar in pieces and begin feeding Beckham, who made faces while chewing them. Everything became very calm and quiet all of a sudden. The only noises was coming from the cruchy energy bars being chewed.

The plane swayed more violently before starting to tilt downward . Everyone couldn't help but feel scared. LTQ began mumbling prayers to himself, Nhu Loan closed her eyes hoping for the best, Bang Kieu held his son closer to him and Minh Tuyet tried to find a happy place in her mind... No one knew what was going to happen next and the pilot didn't say anything, nor is the emergency lights turned on. Bang Kieu wanted to go to the pilot and ask again but decided that it was best not to disturb him. It's just the bad weather, he told himself.

Lost and Late

2007-08-11T11:07:00.000-07:00

LTQ: What? You lost my bag?

Minh Tuyet: Nah ah, don't ya blame it on me. You shouldn't have leave it here.

LTQ: Where was Kieu? He would've never let it happen.

Minh Tuyet: I don't know! After we found out that we were at the wrong gate, he just dropped all the stuff and ran toward the other gate. Then when the guy came and steal the bag, Kieu and the security guards ran off after him.

Nhu Loan: Huh?

LTQ: Look, here he comes.

As soon as Bang Kieu approached them, they all attacked him with his or her own questions. Nothing made sense to Bang Kieu.

"HOLD ON!" Bang Kieu cried in confusion as they quietly obeyed. He then turned to LTQ, "Sorry, we couldn't get your bag back. Was there anything valuable in it?"

"Nothing... just ALL OF MY MONEY!" LTQ looked like he was about to explode.

"Well, what else can happen? First someone pointed us to the wrong gate, I got stuck in the bathroom, then someone steal Quang's bag..." Nhu Loan panicked.

"And we're late for the plane." Bang Kieu added.

All: WHAT?

Bang Kieu: Why else would I drop everything and run to the gate, trying to stop the plane? To our luck, they left early, too. This is strange, though. Why would that guy point us to the wrong gate? Why did all of this happen on the same day? It seems like someone wants us to miss that plane.

LTQ: I think you're just being paranoid.

Bang Kieu: Well, there's ought to be a reason why he did that.

Minh Tuyet: Stop worrying about those stupid things! We have to figure out a way to get to Korea!

Bang Kieu: A day or two late won't hurt.

Nhu Loan: But Marie says if I'm late one more time she'll kick me out of the production.

The airport crew who was standing around, being quiet for the whole time, now spoke up, "There's a jet you guys can rent. I think it wouldn't be a problem since you guys are celebrities."

The four looked at each other. "We split the money, then?"

LTQ: Like I have any!

Nhu Loan: I don't care. I'll pay if you guys don't want to. I have to get on a plane to Korea TODAY!

Everyone agreed to rent a private plane and pulled out their money, LTQ was lucky enough to still have his credit cards, so they all chipped in for a small plane and a pilot.

Minh Tuyet: He's the only pilot?

Airport staff: Yes all of our pilots have been booked way in advance.

Minh Tuyet: But he's old!

Bang Kieu: He's not that old, just middle aged.

Minh Tuyet: Yeah! what if he crashed the plan due to poor eyesight?

Airport staff: Miss, we checked his medical records and he's healthy.

Minh Tuyet: Oh how do you know? You could be his wife!

LTQ: Geeze you always complain about everything!

Airport staff: So do you want the pilot or not?

Minh Tuyet: HECK NO! we can wait another-

Nhu Loan: We'll take him!

Minh Tuyet: What?

Nhu Loan: MY CAREER IS ON THE LINE HERE!

Airport staff: Great! so the plane will be ready in 30 minutes.

Minh Tuyet: What? That's fast!

LTQ: How small is the plane?

Bang Kieu: Beckham, come to daddy we are going on another plane.

Beckham: Yay!

Nhu Loan: Great! My career is saved!

Flight 89

2007-08-04T10:03:00.001-07:00

Bang Kieu: Now are you sure you're okay, Tuyet? You know, you could always stay home.

Minh Tuyet: And disappoint my fans? Heck no! I'm fine! the doctor said the bullet didn't went in too deep THANK GOD!

Beckham: KOREA! KOREA!

Bang Kieu: Yes Beckham, we are going to Korea.

As they walked toward Gate 7A, a man in a dark suit approached them. He had on shades that covered most of his face. There was something about him that Bang Kieu felt wasn't quite right.

Man: Are you Bang Kieu and Minh Tuyet?

BK &MT: Yes

Man: Marie wanted me to tell you that the flight has been moved to Gate 13B.

Bang Kieu: Wait...why didn't she call us directly?

Man: Sir, I'm just doing what I was told.

Minh Tuyet: Kieu, let's not make a scene.

Bang Kieu: Alright.

They gathered their bags and turned to the opposite direction. They're fixing to get on the plane yet Nhu Loan and LTQ was nowhere to be seen. Besides, they probably don't know anything about the change of plan yet. Bang Kieu took out his phone and began to dial LTQ.

LTQ: Kieu! Right here!

Bang Kieu: Oh! I was about to call you!

LTQ: Where are you going? Our gate is the other way.

Bang Kieu: No, change of plans. Where's Nhu Loan? I thought you were driving her here?

LTQ: She was still depress over the breakup so she ate a lot this morning and uh...

Bang Kieu: She's in the bathroom now?

Minh Tuyet jumped in the conversation, "Why do I always feel like I'm left out?"

LTQ: No one wants to hang with a brat like you!

Minh Tuyet: Who you calling a brat? Balloon head!

Beckham: I want a balloon.

Bang Kieu: No, son, they don't sell balloons here.

Minh Tuyet: You can have Quang's-

Bang Kieu: TUYET!

Minh Tuyet: Fine!
--------------------------------------------

Nhu Loan was just about done using the toilet. She was grasping a bottle of Pepto bismol in one hand and a bundle of toilet paper in one. After downing the last drop of the pink liquid, she finished her duty and flushed the toilet. She walked out of the stall and begin washing her hands. For some reason she felt awkward being all alone in the restroom. Maybe she missed her boyfriend or maybe she just like being around people. After drying her hands with a paper towel, she grabbed her bag and tried to open the door but it won't open. Frowning, she tried to give it another yank. Still no luck.

Nhu Loan: That's odd, it opened last time...or maybe it's a sign that I need to work out more...nah!

She pulled the door with all her might but it seemed to be jammed or locked. She looked at her watch. It was time for her to check in and LTQ has her bags.
----------------------------------------------

Bang Kieu: I have an uneasy feeling about Loan. It's really late now. Will you go check on her while we check in?

LTQ made a face and said, "Watch the stuff."
He quickly walked off, trying to get through the crowd as Bang Kieu tried to get the rest of the luggages inside the check-in place. It was no easy task.

The lady at the check in counter was an old lady close to her retirement, she glared the the three singers in front of her. She looked at the three passports in front of her.

Flight Lady: Who's first?

Minh Tuyet: AW! does it matter?

Bang Kieu: Tuyet! Sorry, she's on painkillers. You can do me and my son's first.

Flight Lady: Okay...(pushing up her glasses) Wait... You guys are at the wrong gate. You're supposed to be boarding Gate 7A.

Bang Kieu: Are you sure? We thought there was a change.

Flight Lady: Well, I wasn't informed about any changes. Where did you hear it from?

Bang Kieu thought for a second and then grabbed his tickets and passports from the lady's hand and murmured a "Thank You" He turned around and was about to run to the other gate but realized he'll never make it with Minh Tuyet on a wheelchair and four people's worth of luggages. Minh Tuyet's and his are all he could carry. He hesitated for a moment before dropping all the stuff on the floor and rushed toward gate 7A, thinking that maybe he can tell the airplane to hold on for a few more minutes and get some help with the luggages. It was too late. The gate closed before he could reach it. The plane is leaving early.

He ran to the nearest airport worker he could find and asked for help. But before he could open his mouth to say anything, the worker ran away in the opposite direction, toward the other gate. Bang Kieu was so pissed off that he was going to run after him and spit a curse word or two in his face. Only then he realized why the worker had to leave in such haste.
-----------------------------------------------

About ten minutes later, LTQ came back with Nhu Loan. To their surprise, Minh Tuyet and Beckham was standing outside of the check-in place with several airport security guards and workers. Bang Kieu was nowhere to be found.

The Calls

2007-07-27T21:53:00.000-07:00

Mason City was quite busy these days. Here prostitutes lined up for famous clients. More and more corrupted cops took over the department. Officials baffled over unknown dead bodies. Drugs and weapons flooded the market. Yet, it wasn't these news that made the front cover of every newspaper in the city. It was the foursome. These newcomers had stirred up the usual dark, mysterious atmosphere that lingered over this infamous city. Many things had happened yet none so great and vital as the twist of fate awaiting ahead of them.

---------------------------

Bang Kieu pushed Minh Tuyet's wheelchair outside of the hospital, and headed toward the van. He reminded her again, "Remember to take the painkillers and drink lots of water!"

Minh Tuyet: Ow! Kieu, You wheeled me over a rock!

LTQ: Stop whining! You're still alive! Luckily the bullets only hit you in the [coughs] BUTT!

Minh Tuyet glared at him, with that same I'm-going-to-bite-your-head-off look on her face, and snapped, "I'm on painkillers! Don't mess with me!"

Nhu Loan: Quang, will you leave her alone! She just got out of the hospital!

Nonetheless, they continued to argued. These two are like cats and dogs. It was impossible to have any peace with them. Just as they reached the van and was about to help Minh Tuyet get in, someone's cell phone went off. Each quickly took out his or her phone to check. Coincidently, they all had incoming calls, except for Minh Tuyet. She watched as her friends walked away to take the call, leaving her behind in her wheelchair. She felt lonely and looked at her friends chatting on their phone in envy. Why had no one called to ask if she was okay? The only calls she received was from her parents and that was weeks ago!

"Fine! Be that way! Just leave me like that!" She screamed at the tops of her lungs. No one heard it except for the few people that happened to pass by, who eyed her strangely then took several cautious steps away from the woman they thought were mental.

-----------------------------------

(Nhu Loan)

"Hello"

"Jimmy! Where have you been? I've been trying to call you!" Nhu Loan exclaimed in joy.

"Just doing the usual stuff. Can we go somewhere and talk?" Nhu Loan was shocked that her boyfriend didn't even ask to see if she was okay or anything. He must have seen all those news on TV about her. He always had.

"Um....why? I have a concert tonight and right now I'm with my friends. We're having a celebration-"

"Yea, um, let me make this quick so that I won't waste any of your precious time." He sounded so cold and there was a hint of mockery in his voice. "Loan, this is not working. I'm sorry."

----------------------------------

(Luong Tung Quang)

LTQ held his phone as far away from his ear as possible. His mom's voice, even though had became very inaudible, was still way far from pleasant to hear.

"Mom, it's-"

"I've been trying to call you ever since you moved but you never replied! What is this on the newspaper, eh? EXPLAIN!"

"That-"

"And there it goes! You're on TV again! DID YOU WENT TO JAIL?"

"No-"

"Don't you lie to me now! Don't you DARE lie to me! It says right here-- LTQ was invo...involved...in...well I don't care, but there's the word JAIL! I know what that means! I know what you're thinking...that I'm old and know no English! But remember that I'm still smart for my age and you can BET that I DO know what it means!"

LTQ rolled his eyes and kept his mouth shut as his mom continued lecturing. It was useless trying to talk himself out of this.

-----------------------------------

Bang Kieu was the first one to come back. "Where's the others?" He asked.

"They all left me...just like you did." Minh Tuyet said, looking away.

"Don't be a kid now! I had to take the call."

"It's not me! It's the painkillers!"

Bang Kieu ignored her and changed the topic as he saw LTQ and Nhu Loan came back.

"Hey, guess what, Marie called. We're going to Korea."

The Official Poster

2007-07-27T15:14:00.000-07:00

Season 2 trailer

2007-07-25T15:44:00.000-07:00

MIMC Season 2

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The Teaser Poster

2007-07-23T20:58:00.000-07:00

Coming soon

2007-07-21T14:13:00.001-07:00

Mason City 2 trailer

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PBN 88 Review

2007-07-11T18:28:00.000-07:00

This edition of Paris By Night pays tribute to the legendary Lam Phuong, This dvd promises excitement, sadness, and a reflection of the life and career of one of the greatest vietnamese songwriters ever lived. One of the most personal dvds ever produced by Thuy Nga, this show mixes live performances with dance numbers that appeals to both the older and younger generation. The dark lighting represents the dark times in Lam Phuong's life and the lack of elaborate staging compliments his simple yet heartfelt songs.

1. Doan Nguoi Lu Thu--Hop Ca
The opening starting off with dancers wasn't the best way to open the show. It was rather off from the theme and gives you a feeling of watching another talent show. Minh Tuyet and Nhu Loan would've been a better replacement for Huong Thuy and Ngoc Loan. Huong Thuy's voice really didn't match with the rest and she made the song sounded 'sen' all of a sudden. Both ladies made the song more mature than what it was intended. The dance moves were somewhat cheesy. Overall, it was still enjoyable and very uplifting for an opening though lacking the "wow" factor TN usually is famed for.

2. Kiep Ngheo--Y Lan
This song is one of Lam Phuong most well known songs. Many of the female artists who performed this song were able to display a fierceness to this song while at the same time a vulnerability. Y Lan's rendition wasn't the best in my eye but I liked how she got through the song without doing any of her unusual stuff, just the way the song is supposed to be sung. However, the absent of her usual long-stretching words and somewhat odd hand movements turned the performance into something too typical. The silhouette was a very interesting way to introduce the song.

3. Thanh Pho Buon, Tinh Nhu May Khoi--Mai Quoc Huy, Che Linh
I'm not a fan of these kind of songs and probably not old enough to fully grasp the meanings and be able to enjoy it. Therefore, I wouldn't say anything about the music and singing. Che Linh's tie didn't go with his shirt at all. Mai Quoc Huy looked older than he was in the MTV in PBN 87.

4. Tien Nguoi Di--Huong Lan
Being the younger generation growing up in the US, this would be the kind of song I'd skip. But this time, partly because I wanted to watch the whole dvd and partly because of this review, I sat through the song. It wasn't as bad, especially when you're watching it all by yourself at night with the lights turned off. It's just so calming. Huong Lan's "phuc hau" face and smooth, sweet voice made the song the more enjoyable. The perfect kind of song to watch after a long day. A beautifully delivered live performance.
Huong Lan was so humble and nice in her review following the song.

5. Buc Tam Thu--Nhu Loan
Here is another bold decision from Thuy Nga, pairing up Nhu Loan and Ngoc Loan. This song had a good intro arrangement, very different than the others'. The two singers sang the song well. Their voice matched better than that I imagined. Ngoc Loan was built for this song but we all know Nhu Loan is a nhac tre singer. Nhu Loan was able to use her weakness in this song, her baby voice adds youthfulness to the song and helps tell the story very well of a hopeful girl waiting for her lover's letters. The ending was very cute with Buddy being the delivery boy on his bike, getting the letters from Nhu Loan and Ngoc Loan.

6. Chieu Tan--Hoang Oanh
I prefer Huong Lan over Hoang Oanh. This song is very calming as well but it's just not as easy trying to concentrate and let the lyrics flow through your mind. It was okay, but not something I'd watch twice.

7. Biet Den Bao Gio & Dem Tien Don--Manh Quynh, Truong Vu
I prefer someone like Tuan Vu sing this song, Manh Quynh sounded a bit soft for this song but I guess I am not much a fan of him or these types of songs. The song ended so abruptly that it's hard to really get into it. He quickly introduces Truong Vu (and I don't think it was necessary to do so) who enters the stage in an orange suit that doesn't suit him at all. Every song he sings are always dragged on with every word and I always wonder why the older generation appreciate him so much but I guess it's just a matter of taste. Overall these performances weren't the highlight of the show nor was it one of the best.

8. Ngay Hanh Phuc--Tam Doan, Huong Thuy, Minh Tuyet, Ngoc Lien
The music introduction promises a very uplifting performance but I felt the performance was lacking lust. The female singers aren't able to show very much of their vocal talents, the ao dais are very simple, barely any color or flashy design to them, which kinda tells you that Lam Phuong is a very simple man who appreciates the simple things in life. One line that caught my attention was "Dem ve nghe con khoc vui trien mien" It was odd because you don't see many moms being happy seeing their baby crying. But I guess it is to say that the couple's life was so happy that even something like the baby's cry, which let them know their child is there, can make them happy.
The dark stage was a disadvantage to this song. I feel that it's just not colorful and bright enough for the happiness being expressed in the song.

9. Nghen Ngao--Khanh Ha
It's hard to comment on Khanh Ha since she is so gifted and talented. She never fails to deliver a wonderful performance. I'm very glad that this performance is live. We get to see the diva connect with the song visually and her reactions are realistic to what we are hearing. As a viewer sitting at home, you feel even more connected as if you are actually there at the taping. The camera constantly moves so even if you don't like song, it's interesting to watch.

10. Phut Cuoi--Bang Kieu
This guy made me fall in love with the song with the first line he sang. He have such a smooth voice and sang it so well it's hard to believe it was live. But the note that he held out near the end was truly unnecessary. It was rather too much showing off and took you away from all the emotions and feelings that was building up during the song. This is not the kind of song to show what your voice's made of!! I think he should've just kept it smooth and moving with just one long last note. Overall, it's still an impressive performance from Bang Kieu.

11. Em Di Roi- Hoa Mi
Is it me or is it just boring to listen to the original artist sing this song again? I haven't watched the older Lam Phuong shows but after finding out that Hoa Mi sang this, it was a let down to me. I can see that she poured her soul in this song, from the facial expressions to the tone of her voice. It's hard to find artists these days that would sing songs from the heart because a painting is interesting to look if it evokes emotion rather than just look like a perfect painting. It was nice to hear that Lam Phuong had written it especially for her and it's an honor she will forever cherish.

12. Nhac Kich: Chuyen Tinh Thoi Chinh Chien--Nhu Quynh, The Son (Phu Hoa: Trinh Lam, Huy Tam, Quynh Vi, Luong Tung Quang)
Nhu Quynh had done many musicals before, and I must say this is not her best. Still, the story being told through the songs was a great way to show how Lam Phuong's music can reflect so much on what happened through his time. All these songs wouldn't have seem as interesting, though, if it wasn't put together and woven into a story. Still, this heart-wrenching performance will have you living in the moment.
Both The Son and Nhu Quynh sang the songs wonderfully yet their acting doesn't match up to their excellent voices. The Son had hard time trying to express his emotions while Nhu Quynh showed way too much which made it awkward and unrealistic at times. The MTVs playing in the back were so good. I especially liked the one where The Son was sitting by himself in the dark.
The war scene should've been accompanied by more upbeat and chaotic music. The slow, sorrowful song is a nice and different way to describe something such as warfare. However, there had already been too many songs of the same kind in the Lien Khuc already.
Con Tau Dinh Menh was excellent. LTQ, Quynh Vi, Trinh Lam, Huy Tam did a good job. I like how they all started off in a way that sounded like chanting, as if they're praying for their life. The lyrics were truly meaningful. It made you think about all the hardship the generation before you had endured, and how they had managed to survive it together. As the scene ended with people leaving, some could not bare leaving their homeland and lingered on.
The next scene is also very touching with The Son and Nhu Quynh so close together yet in fact they're a world apart. The song is really great, too.
If there was something I can change about this Lien Khuc, it would be the ending. I didn't think it was necessary for Nhu Quynh to die and make the story end in such a dramatic and sorrowful manner. Happy endings are meaningful, too. And even though many had died and lost their lives on the long voyages toward freedom, we've made it here today--that's something to be thankful and happy about after a journey full of unhappy and heart-breaking stories. Overall, the thing that saved really saved the whole production was the director's excellent direction and the extras in this Lien Khuc since the music arrangement and acting of the two main singers wasn't very impressive. This is one of the few songs where the dark stage really help expressing the dark themes and emotions of the performance.

13. Chuyen Do Vy Tuyen--Tam Doan
I agree with many people that this song was not made for Tam Doan. This seems to be made for a women of with a more mature voice. Technically speaking, she hit all the notes well and it was nice to hear her voice but I felt she didn't fit in this particular type of music.

14. Duong Ve Que Huong--Quang Le
I remember how my dad would always sing this song when he turns on the karaoke machine. Quang Le made this song very youthful--something I really like, since it brings life to an outdated song. His singing appeared a bit energetic, but seeing him on stage was annoying. The quick hand movements (especially the stop sign) and jerks annoyed me. And it was odd how he had his eyes closed or barely open for most of the time. For the title of the DVD, I expected more out of this performance. It was mediocre in my eyes.

15. Nang Dep Mien Nam & Khuc Ca Ngay Mua--Ha Phuong, Huong Thuy
Nice contrast in Ha Phuong and Huong Thuy's costume, as one is an elegant ao dai as if worn by rich, high-class people and the other is ao ba ba worn by farmers and such. Ha Phuong's and Huong Thuy's voice matches really well. It's one very nice performance.

16. Lien Khuc: Lam & Say--Duong Trieu Vu, Trinh Lam
I must say, this is a dissapointing performance from Duong Trieu Vu. He sounded stiff and it was hard making out the words that he was singing. Also, he had gained some weight and that made his performance the less enjoyable. Trinh Lam saved it. He did better than I expected. But once DTV came out and sing Say with Trinh Lam, he didn't do as bad as he did with the song Lam. I guess the other song was a bad selection for him. Also, they didn't attack notes at the same time which made it sound really unprofessional.

17. Ngay Em Di--Nguyen Hung
A very upbeat song that will wake you up if you're feeling a little sleepy being overdose with all the slow ballads and que huong songs. Nguyen Hung moved around a lot and I know he's a great dancer but all the moves are old and make it kinda boring to watch. Though I don't think there's another singer out there who can dance like that and sing just as good.

18. Cho Em Quen Tuoi Ngoc--Bach Yen, Tran Thu Ha
Bach Yen is nice to hear but is a pain to watch. Her hair looks weird and, let's admit it, she isn't that pretty. Her interview afterwards was rather bad as she was showing off. I don't like how she specifically mentioned the fact that she got half a song.
As for Tran Thu Ha, she sounded great as always, though nothing impressive.

19. LK Thien Dan Ai An, Chi Co Em, Tinh Van Chua Yen--Bao Han, Thuy Tien, Luong Tung Quang
The Medley 80 (performed by LTQ, TT, LB) was great but you couldn't expect the same thing for this song. The music arrangement was nowhere as good. Also, I think this trio could've been done much better if the 3 was together on the stage at the same time, singing the same song(s), instead of having each of them singing a different song on their own. Bao Han looked very sexy with the blond hair and showgirl outfit, while Thuy Tien looked very cute in the baby blue dress. LTQ looks adorable, but sleep-deprived as the dark circles that make up had failed to cover can clearly be seen around his eyes. Thuy Tien's dancing was a little bit awkward comparing to the other two.
This performance probably represents Lam Phuong's love story with the girl he met in Paris. It started out with two happy songs which tells you how wonderful and happy LP's life was once he found a new love. But it didn't last long. Their relationship ended and thus comes Tinh Van Chua Yen. I just love how Lam Phuong's songs all tell a story.
Overall, it's an interesting performance to watch, rather than to listen to.

20. Lien Khuc: Tram Nho Ngan Thuong & Tinh Bo Vo--Tran Thai Hoa, Ngoc Lien
Tran Thai Hoa & Ngoc Lien's voices matched pretty well. Her voice is very strong and his voice is very deep like usual. I think Tran Thai Hoa should've wear this shirt for the opening. It would've matched Quynh Vi's dress more than the yellow shirt. The reddish background made the settings more romantic and contributed well to the overall mood of the song.

21. Bai Tango Cho Em--Khanh Ly
I love the dancers. Even though because of them, I get distracted from the song, they were a great addition to the performance that made it a lot more interesting to watch. This is one of those songs that have a happier mood to it.

22. Mua Thu Yeu Duong--Quynh Vi & Huy Tam
The music arrangement sounded fresh but it was kinda off once the singing come in. It was fun and cute to see these two together on stage. From the song to the dance moves, these two really pulled off this song! Quynh Vi looks absolutely beautiful in her costume and new hair style. But I don't like Huy Tam's shirt, though it was a lot less boring than just the typical suit and shirt. Overall it was a very cute duet and nicely done by these two!

23. Cho Nguoi--Tran Thu Ha, Bang Kieu
Tran Thu Ha and Bang Kieu have lots of duets but this is not one of their best. I prefer a solo for this song. The beginning was very nice, though. I like how Tran Thu Ha started off with just the guitar playing in the background and then Bang Kieu with just the piano. It was when they started singing together that messes the song up for me. For some reason it just sounds off.

24. Minh Mat Nhau Bao Gio--Minh Tuyet
The first time I heard this I was not impressed with the music arrangement but after listening to it many times, I came to realize that the music is not important when it comes to Lam Phuong, it's his wonderful words that makes the song amazing. I admire Minh Tuyet's ability to explore other genres. For her to constantly grow and evolve is what an artist is supposed to do and this performance gives another side to this multi-faceted star. In this performance we see what we expect from her, a very sexy performance. Other than the continuity errors of her on and off missing earring, this was a very enjoyable performance to watch.

26. Mot Minh--Huong Giang
For a newcomer, Huong Giang delivered this song so beautifully and so well, though I wish it was sung in a more powerful tone. Still, she blew me away with the first line. It was another bold decision for Thuy Nga to let someone as inexperienced and young like Huong Giang to do the closing number with a song that contained so much emotions. The musical arrangement is very calming and simple in this number.
The MTV of Lam Phuong playing in the back is so touching and artistically filmed. In my opinion, the bird in a cage symbolizes Lam Phuong's life. He's trapped inside a cage. He can't do the things he loved anymore, or he can but with great difficulty. However, as the song ends, it doesn't leave me with pity but rather admiration for this great composer.

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2007-06-16T12:30:00.000-07:00

PBN 88

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After thoughts

2007-06-16T12:24:00.000-07:00

It seemed like yesterday Minh and I decided to team up to create a fanfic, like many others we were veterans of the "A never ending story" topic in Tu Quyen's forum (Now changed to will end...don't think it will though..lol) and so since everyone else was creating one, heck why not us as well?
I knew that I couldn't do it on my own, not like I couldn't write a story on my own but I knew I needed a back up person in case I started to feel lazy and I was glad Minh thought the same. We were a perfect duo! always finishing each other's thoughts and share many things in common. I don't know if you guys noticed but initially we were inspired by the tv show "Dirt" we like how it showed a dirty side of hollywood and since we are used to seeing our singers so perfect, why not make them the opposite? The idea grew even further as we continued to chat online, suddenly we are putting them in a fictional city (I googled it for fun and surprisingly it's a real city in Iowa! didn't know that) I like the idea of having a "Sin City" type series where trouble is every where. The first episode was posted and I didn't expect it to be a success since we weren't the first ones to have a fanfic but surprisingly it did pretty well, and the comments kept us writing more and more, each episode more daring than the last. I guess at first we were cautious since we didn't had a stable fanbase.

We originally only wanted three characters that way we can focus more on the story and not confuse ourselves. Later on, Minh told me she wanted to add Bang Kieu into the cast and I accepted, now it's evened out. He played a small role at first but as the story went on, he became the main focus. I guess

Episode 7 titled "Music and Fashion" was one of the biggest changes (AND THE MOST RISKIEST! ) we made. We weren't getting many readers and Minh suggested that our episodes needs to be more funnier. It was great because I was all about comedy, when brainstorming ideas, I thought of having a conflict between LTQ and MT, everyone knows I am a fan of Minh Tuyet and everyone Minh is a fan of Luong Tung Quang. I thought of a story line and Minh thought it was hilarious, we split the episode in half with Minh writing the first part and I wrote the second part. I was afraid though that the fans don't like to see their favorite singers portrayed this way, I guess I was wrong when we received so much great feed back! Made In Mason City exploded from there! after that! We slaved hours and hours working on our episodes, sometimes in the late at nights and even the day before posting them!

The season ended with Minh Tuyet getting shot, although we don't know what will happens next we can't help but wonder whether she would die or not. Is it true that with beauty comes tragedy? or is it just karma? what goes around, comes around?

Larry
(co-creator of MIMC)

A Fallen Rose

2007-06-09T03:56:00.001-07:00

LTQ was sitting in a closed room with a big mirror, just like the one on TV where police do their interrogations. In front of him were two police officers. He didn't wait for them to start.

LTQ: Will the press sees this?

Officer: If it goes on trial, yes. But for now, maybe. They had parts of the shooting recorded.

LTQ paused for a brief moment to recall his questions: Is this going on my record? Is there a way to bail me out?

Officer: Mr. Luong, we're the ones who are doing the interrogation.

LTQ grew quiet and sank back into his chair.

Police Officer: Thank you. Mr. Luong Tung Quang, we've got proof of what you did at that church--a video of all and everything that happened. If you agree to cooperate with us, then we'll hold no charges against you and destroy the evidence. All we need for you to do is tell us the truth and testify against Jack and his son, Andy.

LTQ: I thought it's against the law to destroy the evidence?

Officer: You don't have to worry about that.

LTQ: I won't talk without my lawyer.

The Police Officer took out a cell phone and gave it to him. "Call him."

LTQ: But I don't have one.

"NEXT!" The other office said, running out of patience with LTQ.
-------------------------------------------

(Nhu Loan)
Nhu Loan poked her head into the interrogation room, "Come in Ms. Loan" she quickly took a seat across the officer questioning her and gave a smile.

Officer: Why are you so happy?

Nhu Loan (through her teeth): I'm not. I'm just hiding my shame

Officer: Can we just get started?

Nhu Loan: Ok...

Officer: Says here that you were a part of a skim to kidnap two pop stars from a Paris by Night show?

Nhu Loan: Oh no, originally it was supposed to be a joke

Officer: You think kidnapping people is funny?

Nhu Loan: Oh no of course not just I wanted to teach them a lesson

Officer: By handing them to a dangerous gang?

Nhu Loan: Oh I didn't know it would go that far...

Officer: How about you running off with the Bang Kieu and his friends

Nhu Loan: they are my friends and I-

Officer: Were you part of this?

Nhu Loan: No

Officer: Then why do you did you go?

Nhu Loan: LOOK I just wanted to ask for forgiveness from them so I can move on with my life! but no I decided to stay for the night and then next morning I found myself being threaten by some stranger with a gun to MY HEAD!(breathing hard)

Officer: Alright Miss, will you testify against Jack?

Nhu Loan: But I don't know anything about him... I can testify against Andy though.

Officer: That will do.
-------------------------------------------

(Minh Tuyet)
It was Minh Tuyet's turn. She watched as two policemen escort Nhu Loan out of the room and another two came to escort her into the room. She waited for no one to offer her the seat before sitting down and she was even more eager to get the interrogation started than the officers.

Minh Tuyet: I'll do what you ask, just don't put me in jail!

Officer: That's a smart decision.

Minh Tuyet was surprised. "So what is it that you want me to do?"

Officer: Tell us the truth and testify against Jack...or his son, Andy.

Minh Tuyet: How can I trust you?

Officer: Miss, it's either this, and you have a chance of seeing the daylight again, or turn down the offer and head straight to the bars.

Minh Tuyet (scared): Alright, alright, I'll do it. So does that mean I'll have to go and testify against him in court?

Officer: Miss, this is Mason City. We don't waste time for all that junk. A record of what you said will be enough. If someone came in right now and blow Jack's brains out, the entire department will celebrate and probably give that guy who shot him a treat. We just need to get him arrested. How or why doesn't matter.

Minh Tuyet: Okay.

-------------------------------------------

(Bang Kieu)
Officer: Mr. Kieu. I was hoping we would never meet again. Who knows that they would transfer me to the city you're living at. I know how most cops around here are corrupted but now that I'm here, you and Jack won't be able to get away with it anymore.

Bang Kieu: Mike, I have nothing to do with Jack this time. I was just trying to save my son.

Officer: We did the test. He's not your son.

Bang Kieu was shocked at the words Mike was saying. He punched hard on the table, "LIAR!"

Despite Bang Kieu's fury, Mike remained calm. "Believe it or not, I don't care. What were-"

Bang Kieu: I'll testify against Jack if that's what you want. Just let me have the kid.

Mike smiled with satisfaction. "That won't be a problem. He's an orphan. We'll have the paperwork done for you if you wish. What a pleasant surprise, I never expect for you to turn against Jack."

Bang Kieu ignored the comments. "What of my friends?"

Mike: With the exception of one, the rest are clean. But they’re all waiting for you out there.

Bang Kieu: Which one? Why?

Mike: Don't worry, we'll let him out. The idiot probably doesn’t know anything. I was glad that he shot Minh Tri, though. None of us would care to hold any charges against him.
Now, what we need to do is record what you have to say against Jack. You and your little boy will be free to go.

With that said, he turned on the recording device sitting on the table.
-------------------------------------------

Everyone was glad to see Bang Kieu come out with his kid. They yelled in joy and started to hug each other.

Officer: THAT'S TOO LOUD! THIS IS A POLICE STATION! Go before I put all of you back in jail.

All 4 (running out of the door): Sorry.

LTQ: It's good to feel the sunlight on your skin again. Prison really changes a man.

Minh Tuyet: Stupid, you've been in there for 3 hours! And besides, sunlight mess my skin up. Let's go somewhere and eat, I'm starving!

They headed down the sidewalk, talking like they've never talked to each other before.

Nhu Loan: Yea, I'm still wondering... what was the item?

Bang Kieu: I don't know and couldn't care less.

Nhu Loan: Oh...

Minh Tuyet: You guys walk too slow! Hurry! I haven't eaten in ... a long time!

LTQ: Missing a meal would only do good to you. Lately I've noticed some gain in weigh-

Minh Tuyet: I'm hungry. Don't get started with me now.

She continued on to say something back at LTQ but he, as well as Bang Kieu and Nhu Loan, was no longer paying attention to her. They turned to look at the man who just staggered his way out clumsily from the alley. In his hand he held a gun.
First thing Bang Kieu thought of was the kid. He pushed the kid behind him and backed away from the man as Nhu Loan did the same thing. LTQ looked like he was frozen to the ground until that heroic moment when he started to run forward Minh Tuyet,
"Get down!"
He knocked her down on the ground, just as the man fired. There were screams and as LTQ looked down on his shirt, it was wet with blood. It took him some time to realize that it was not his blood.

Something I need

2007-06-08T09:18:00.000-07:00

Bang Kieu sat in the chair opposite of Marie. No one said anything for a while after Bang Kieu told Marie the story, with his gun pointing to her the whole time.

"Well, you know, there are millions of boys out there and you just can't give Jack what he wants everytime he kidnaps one." Marie finally said.

"It's my-"

"Your son. I know. I imagined you must have gone through quite a lot recently. But there's no excuse for losing your mind so blindly."

"I'm not. Just give me the damn thing, Marie."

"What if I don't? You can't kill me because I'm the only one who knows where it is."

Bang Kieu knew this question was coming. He had thought hard for a long time, ever since Jack first told him about the job, but never came up with an answer.

"Well-" Bang Kieu put the gun to his head.

"NO! Don't do anything stupid"

"I have no choice. I have a son and it's probably one of the best things that ever happened in my life! You can't understand because you don't have a child!"

Marie's facial expression changed a bit. Her facial expression never change, no mater what...until now. It looked like someone had just hit her hard in the face.

She looked away and stood up, then walked toward a big family photo hanging on the wall. Just like Bang Kieu had expected, behind it was a safe. He turned his head away as Marie put in the right combination.

"Here," Marie said, handing Bang Kieu a box. "Now put that gun away!"

"Thank you, Marie"

She made no reply but merely walked out of the room, leaving the door open as Bang Kieu followed her.

Body: "Congratulations!" A familiar dreaded voice said as Bang Kieu and Marie just stepped outside the house. Bang Kieu knew who that was but couldn't hide the surprise look on his face as Jack stepped out--along with Kim and his son. "Here, give me the box and your son is free"

"How can I trust you?"

"I ask myself the same question. But you have no choice. I'm not the kind of guy you want to mess with, Kieu. You know me too well. Besides, what am I to do with a little kid?"

Bang Kieu thought for a moment then reluctantly handed Jack the box. Kim was about to let the kid go but Jack stopped her, "Hold on,"

Bang Kieu opened his mouth to cuss him out but Jack went on,

"I need to check first. Not going until I'm absolutlely sure that I have the genuine one."

Everyone held their breath as Jack slowly take the lid off the box. He was interrupted as a bullet came blasting its way onto the wall behind him, missing him by just an inch. Jack's men came out of nowhere and formed a circle around him, protecting him from upcoming bullets.

"Damn it," DTV said as he quickly ducked back into his hiding place. Luckily, no one had seen him yet.

Jack was furious. "Tell your men to come out or the kid's dead"

Bang Kieu was startled. His friends probably realized that he was gone and had followed him. He opened his mouth to say something but never got the chance to as another bullet came by, this time, it was meant for Bang Kieu.

"Andy!" Jack exclaimed as he saw his son and his men, each has his gun in firing position. "What are you doing here?"

Andy: Father! I-I was looking for Bang Kieu. What are you doing here?

Everyone was confused. They looked at each other with suspicion, not quite know what to do next.
----------------------------------------

DTV had a clear shot of Andy. He aimed and was ready to shoot but the arrival of another group of people stoppe him from firing. It was Minh Tuyet, Nhu Loan and Luong Tung Quang...driving his new Mercedes!!! Minh Tuyet made a dramatic stop as she ran the car onto the sidewalk and into the fences that goes around Marie's house. They climbed out of the car at lightning speed, as if it would explode any second. By the time the three got on their feet and realized what was going on, all the guns were on them.

LTQ: Uh oh

Andy: Well, well, look what we have.

Minh Tuyet: BANG KIEU!

Bang Kieu: What are you guys doing here?

Marie: My beautiful fence!

DTV: MY NEW CAR!!

He came out of his hiding place and started firing at Andy's men. It seems like the next instant everyone's gun went off. Minh Tuyet, Nhu Loan and LTQ ducked, trying not to get shot. Bang Kieu knocked Jack over and wrapped himself around the kid, trying to protect him from the bullets. The firing goes on for a long time and many men from each side fell down. DTV's men were heavily outnumbered. It would be a miracle if any of them lived. The loud noises the guns made deafended everyone. No one noticed that the police had arrived. They, too, joined the massive shooting.

"Oh shit, the cops have arrived" was the last words LTQ said before he was knocked over, hand-cuffed, and shoved into one of the police cars.

911

2007-06-02T06:49:00.001-07:00

"Kieu, you still don't know for sure if the kid is really yours!"

"Tuyet, I won't waste my time arguing with you." Bang Kieu replied and went on to discuss the plan with DTV and his men.

Nhu Loan: She's right. If he's not your son then you're just risking your own life for nothing.

LTQ: But there is a kid. Even if he's not his son, he's still a life we need to save.

Minh Tuyet: Look who's talking. How about you go and Bang Kieu stays then?

LTQ: I can't even walk!

Minh Tuyet: THEN SHUT UP!

Bang Kieu: He's right, Tuyet. I have no choice. And if the kid's really mine, I won't have enough time to regret it.

Minh Tuyet: So you two are teaming up on me now?

Nhu Loan: Hey I'm on your side.

LTQ: Vu, let's get your men to take these two somewhere and lock them up until we're done with the job!

DTV: Everyone, please chill.

Minh Tuyet: CHILL YOU!

LTQ: See? What did I tell you? Just take 'em away.

Nhu Loan: Why 'them'? What did I do?

Everyone continued to argue as Bang Kieu slip away without anyone's notice.
-----------------------------------------

DTV suddenly noticed something missing. He couldn't quite figure out what it was but something was missing. It took him a while to realize that it was Bang Kieu. Judging by the current situation, it is best that he argued with the girls no more and not let them, especially Minh Tuyet, know that Bang Kieu was gone. He silently told the guards to lock the two girls up in the room just so they won't get in his way. LTQ... with a injured leg, he won't be able to do anything much. And besides, he's on their "side".
DTV then left the room, hoping that no one saw him. Minh Tuyet did.

"Where are you going?" She asked curiously.

DTV made no reply but instead started to run for the door. His men outside closed then locked the door just in time for Minh Tuyet to slam her face in it.

Nhu Loan came to her side and helped her up. "Are you okay?"

"That bastard!!! Bang Kieu and all his friends...they're all the same!!!" Minh Tuyet cursed under her breathe. She then looked at LTQ. "What you looking at?"

LTQ: Stop messing with me now. I haven't said anything to you.

Minh Tuyet: If it wasn't for you, Bang Kieu wouldn't had have a chance to escape.

LTQ: Blame yourself.

Minh Tuyet said no more but went on to tackle LTQ down. Normally he would fight back but right then his leg was injured and all he could do was land on his back and say "OW!" His phone then fell out of his pocket.

An idea popped into Minh Tuyet's head.

"Let's call the police!"

"What? No! Are you crazy? They're looking for us!"

Minh TUyet ignored him and was about to dial the numbers when LTQ tried his best to get up and snatch the phone from her then raised it high in the air, beyond her reach.

"No!" He said, "I'm going to jail for killing that guy. Bang Kieu, too."

Minh Tuyet: Give it back, you one-legged freak!

Nhu Loan: Quang, I think it's not that bad of an idea. After all, it was just self-defense that you shot him, right?

LTQ: But-

Minh Tuyet: Let's not waste time explaining ourselves to the idiot.
She kicked his other leg which caused him to loose his balance and once again, fall, then lost his conscious

Nhu Loan: oh my god! you killed him!
Minh Tuyet: What? (she bends down to check) no he's just knocked out
Nhu Loan: Well what are we going to do now?
Minh Tuyet: Call them again!

She grabbed the phone again from LTQ's hand and dialed the numbers, she held it up to her ear and waited.

Minh Tuyet: Hi! I would like to-

Police Officer: Can you please hold?

Minh Tuyet: Oh okay

Nhu Loan: What? what's wrong?

Minh Tuyet: They put me on hold.

Nhu Loan: Oh for the love of god!

Police Officer: Okay, what's the problem?

Minh Tuyet: Jack has kidnapped a little kid and now he's threatening my friend to do a deed-

Police Officer: Who is this friend of yours?

Minh Tuyet: His name is Bang Kieu

Police Officer: Is this Bang Kieu's son Jack has?

Minh Tuyet: Yes, now could you send your men out to arrest him!

Police officer: Now wait a minute, we can't do anything until we get this clear, Is Jack using his son for ransom?

Minh Tuyet: Yes!

Police officer: so he wants money from Bang Kieu?

Minh Tuyet: No, he wants something from another person and he wants Bang Kieu to get it for him!

Police officer: Bang Kieu is a celebrity why would he be associated with these people?

Minh Tuyet: WOULD YOU STOP ASKING QUESTIONS AND SEND YOUR MEN OVER THERE! GEEZE A LIFE'S AT STAKE HERE!!!!!!!!!!!!

Police officer: okay okay..sorry, now where is it?

Minh Tuyet: Okay, the address is at...

I need answers!

2007-06-01T12:06:00.000-07:00

DTV: What?

Bang Kieu: I know it's sudden and everything but I have no time to explain. Please help me just this once. I owe you for life, man.

DTV: Like I want it. [chuckles] Well, sure. When do you need it?

Bang Kieu: Now.

DTV: Dude, that's crazy. Those aren't easy to find!

Bang Kieu: Look, I got no time to argue. I need 'em now. Do you got 'em?
DTV: At least tell me what's going on.

Bang Kieu sighed. He wished he didn't call him. But there was no other choice. "Jack has my son."

DTV knew it. But he didn't want to drag Minh Tuyet into this conversation, so he decided to lie "And since WHEN on earth did you have a son?"

Bang Kieu: I found out last night. Kim called..

DTV: NOT HER AGAIN! What more does she wants from you? She dumped you and took all your money. Isn't that enough?

Bang Kieu: Vu, Jack has OUR son.

There was silence. DTV didn't expect that coming. Everything was just simply a bunch of incomprehensive information to him. So much for a short talk on the phone.

DTV: Alright, man. How can I deliver it to you?

Bang Kieu: I'll stop by your house.

DTV: But..

Bang Kieu hung up.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Bang Kieu arrived in front of Duong Trieu Vu's house, "I swear his house always looks like it's straight out a catalog" Bang Kieu murmured under his breath as he pass the perfectly trimmed lawn and up the steps. He knocked on the door. He can hear some feet shuffling followed by loud footsteps and then the door opens

Duong Trieu Vu: Hey! you came so soon

Bang Kieu: duh I'm in a bad situation here

Duong Trieu Vu: Okay well come in, I got the stuff you wanted

Bang Kieu enters in the house, while Duong Trieu Vu went to get the equipment for him. Bang Kieu looked around the living room. It wasn't the first time he seen it but he felt something strange about it.
Duong Trieu Vu came back with a duffle bag, he handed to Bang Kieu who immediately inspected the weapons inside.

Duong Trieu Vu: So uh...what's gonna happen if you don't finnish the job?

Bang Kieu: Then my son dies.

Duong Trieu Vu: But this is Jack you are talking about..

Bang Kieu: Look, I gotta do what I gotta do, now I'm off to do the job and-

Minh Tuyet: Alright Bang Kieu! Talk!

Duong Trieu Vu: I told you to hide!

The moment Bang Kieu saw Minh Tuyet, he raced out the door.

Minh Tuyet: DON'T YOU WALK AWAY FROM ME BANG KIEU!

She chased after Bang Kieu, Nhu Loan poked her head out from under the table. With the table linen draped over her head, she got up and went out. Luong Tung Quang came out of the closet and staggered his way out holding a cane to support himself. Minh Tuyet ran up to Bang Kieu and tackled him down on the lawn.

Bang Kieu: Get off of me!

Nhu Loan: What is going on?

Luong Tung Quang: Do we have to do this outside?

Durong Trieu Vu: My beautiful lawn!

Minh Tuyet: Talk...NOW!

Bang Kieu: Alright!!

They were back in the living room, Duong Trieu Vu had made tea for them which they all drank in silence. Minh Tuyet kept a constant glare at Bang Kieu. He felt so guilty and he couldn't take it. Besides, his time is running out. He's only got 2 days to finnish the job. He had to find a way out.

Bang Kieu: Tuyet, I know that no matter what I say, you won't let me go. But... only if you could see the kid, you'll no longer be opposing my decision.

Minh Tuyet: Well you said it. No matter what you say, I won't let you go.

Bang Kieu: I don't have time to explain.

Minh Tuyet: BUT YOU WILL!

Bang Kieu: MY SON WILL DIE!

Minh Tuyet: (gasp)

Nhu Loan: (gasp)

Luong Tung Quang: Huh?

Duong Trieu Vu: Dang I didn't picture it to end up like this

Breakfast at Duong Trieu Vu's

2007-06-01T11:25:00.000-07:00

Bang Kieu tried his best not to think about the the look of the child. The kid looked so much like himself. At that moment he no longer have any doubts. It was his son standing right in front of him, in the edge of being killed for who his father was and for what his father had done.

"What's his name?" he had asked.

There was no answer from Kim. She merely shook her head and tried her best not to cry. She took a few steps toward him and gave Bang Kieu a phone.

"Hello, Kieu" Said a wicked, familiar voice. "Long time no see. You're late."

"It was a long drive...and a long walk."

"Now, don't even think about it. You know me too well. The kid will die even if you show the smallest sign of disobeying me. Listen, all I need for you to do is to get me something from one of your old friend and the kid's yours."

"Why, Jack, why?"

"Shouldn't it be a 'what' instead?"

"I know what it is.."

"You THOUGHT you knew" Jack cut in.

"Whatever! But I thought you had it already. After all, you killed the old man."

"Well, it was a priceless duplicate. I need the real one. And since he's now dead, I need for you to find out where it is and bring it back."

"Marie will either kill me or die rather than giving it up."

"I'd take that you would rather kill your son?"
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Nhu Loan finally regain conscious but she found herself in an unfamiliar environment. "This is not my bedroom, I know cuz I can't afford these!" Everything in the room looked like it came from France or Italy. Even the bed sheets are of high quality, it was like she woke up in a five star hotel. She heard voices from outside, they sound like Minh Tuyet and Luong Tung Quag. Getting off her bed, she exist the room and into the hallway. It was a beautiful home, fully furnished with one-of-a-kind artworks and expensive furnishings. Walking down the stairs, the voices becoming more clear--it was indeed Minh Tuyet and Luong Tung Quang. They both were on the couches. Well, Luong Tung Quang was laying on one couch while Minh Tuyet was sitting next to a complete stranger chatting away.

Minh Tuyet: "Oh my god! these lamps are real Tiffanys! and-and these are Waterford crystal glasses! I LOVE YOU! It's so nice to have someone who has nice taste"

Duong Trieu Vu: "Well, it's nice to be in company with a famous gifted..talented..BEAUTIFUL singer" (edging closer to MT)

Minh Tuyet: Don't even think about it!

Duong Trieu Vu: Ok...Hey there! you woke up!

Minh Tuyet: Oh Loan! You finally woke up.

Nhu Loan: Yeah...where are we? And who is he?

Duong Trieu Vu: Oh I'm sorry, My name is Duong Trieu Vu, I am a dear friend of Bang Kieu.

Minh Tuyet: Yeah he was getting worried about what happened to you guys and went to the hotel. He saw you knocked out and Luong Tung Quang in pain, so he took you guys back to his place and here we are! (getting up and raising her glass) reunited! Again! (sitting back down)"

Duong Trieu Vu: Oh take a seat (Nhu Loan takes a seat next to DTV)

Nhu Loan: Who were those guys?

Duong Trieu Vu: Well, the guy who shot LTQ is Andy. He's Jack's son, Bang Kieu's former boss-

Nhu Loan: What kind of boss?

Duong Trieu Vu: Um... Well, I'm not sure if Bang Kieu would allow me to tell you guys this.

All 3: What?

Duong Trieu Vu paused, thinking of what to say next and whether or not he should say it. "Let's just say Bang Kieu had history with the gangs around here and those things aren't easy to get rid of. He used to work in the Devil's Reject gang.

All 3: WHAT?

Duong Trieu Vu: WILL YOU GUYS STOP IT AND LET ME GET THROUGH MY STORY!

All 3: [quiet]

Duong Trieu Vu: Thank you. Well, anyways, Bang Kieu was an orphan. Jack took him in. Treated him like a son. Guess who's jealous?-Andy. So Andy developed much hatred for Bang Kieu. But, um.. an incident happened and Kieu left the gang. But as I said, you don't just leave a gang when you wanted to. It's impossible when you're Jack's right hand man.
And the other day, you killed Minh Tri--one of Andy's best men. Right now he's probably looking for revenge.

Luong Tung Quang: I wonder how that David Meng 'just happened' to hire him?

Duong Trieu Vu: Minh Tri works for whoever pays him. You're lucky that you're alive under his watch.

LTQ: Oh.

Minh Tuyet: But Bang Kieu mentioned something about Jack during his conversation with Kim. Where does Jack fits in the story?

DTV: Well that I don't know. I haven't talked to Kieu ever since he left the hotel.

Nhu Loan: Wait, what conversation?

Minh Tuyet: Kim called Bang Kieu last night-

Duong Trieu Vu's cell phone began to ring. He picked it up and left the room to answer it while Minh Tuyet went on to explain about the phone call. A familiar voice came up.
"Hello? Vu? I need to talk to you"

An unexpected visitor

2007-05-26T16:50:00.000-07:00

(Luong Tung Quang)
LTQ woke up and found himself in the same bed with Nhu Loan. It took him some time to recall of what happened the night before and why she was there. It suddenly felt so odd. She looked so peaceful for someone who's been through all the troubles that she went through. Minh Tuyet was right. He knew this face. This is the girl he had once loved.
"C'mon, wake up! It was years ago!" LTQ said warily. He did not intend to say that outloud.
"What was years ago?" Nhu Loan asked, rubbing her eyes sleepily.
"Uh... did I wake you up? Sorry."
"Duh! You said 'wake up! What time is it?"
He looked around. "Funny, there's no clock in here. And I don't have my watch with me."
"Kieu, what time is it?" Nhu Loan asked, her eyes still closed.
It was then when LTQ realized he was not in the room, and his bed was empty. Minh Tuyet was gone, too. In the bathroom there was no light and no sound of running water. Besides... why would Minh Tuyet and Bang Kieu be in the bathroom at the same time?
"Loey, wake up! Kieu and Tuyet are not here!"
"Did you just call me Loey?" Nhu Loan asked and sat up. Judging by the look on his face, LTQ didn't even seem to know if he did or not. "It's nothing. It's just that no one had called me that ever since I got out of high school."
LTQ remained silent. He couldn't think of anything to say. Dumbstruck.
"Bang Kieu and Minh Tuyet probably went to get some breakfast. Let's get ready and get down there." She said, getting out of the bed.
"Yea" Was all he can come up with.
Nhu Loan went into the bathroom, leaving him sitting alone on the bed.
---------------------------------
(Nhu Loan)
Nhu Loan started to sing in the shower. She couldn't help it. She missed the stage already. And besides, she had always enjoyed singing while taking a shower. The noise of running water and her own voice separated her from the rest of the world. It seems like a day never went by without her singing. There was always a show somewhere. And now, who knows how long it will be before she gets back onstage?
Only when she got out of the shower did she know that someone was singing the same song outside in the room, too. Nhu Loan smiled. It felt like they were singing a duet. Though LTQ sounded different without the microphone--a lot different--she could care less.
Nhu Loan got dressed and ready quickly. She turned the doorknob and stepped out.
-------------------------------

Nhu Loan was shocked to find out that the person singing wasn't LTQ. It was a guy dressed in black suit. He was facing the window and his face was turned away from her. There was about 6 men standing in the room, and 5 of them had their gun on LTQ, who was kneeling on the floor. Another one came out from behind her and put his gun to her head.
"Scream and I'll shoot your brains out." He said.
Nhu Loan became terrified and did as told. Tears began rolling down her face.
The singing ceased and the man turned around. He wore sunglasses that covered most of face but it was still possible to tell that this guy is just about her own age.
"Where is Bang Kieu?"
Nhu Loan opened her mouth to speak but no sound came out. She was simply too scared now.
"What makes you think we'll tell you?" LTQ replied.
The guy took out a gun and shot him in the leg. LTQ shrieked in pain as a smile spread across the young man's face. It was all a game to him. "That's what," he said, "Keep screaming. The room's soundproof."
He then turned to Nhu Loan, "Now tell me or else he's dead."
Nhu Loan swallowed hard, and whispered "I don't know..."
At the instant of her answer, he stepped hard on LTQ's wound with his feet, keeping his gun aimed at LTQ's head. "WHAT?"
"Please... I really don't know." Nhu Loan begged him with her eyes closed. She couldn't bare seeing the scene.
"Alright." He said and was about to fire as Nhu Loan screamed on the top of her lungs,
"He's at Minh Tuyet's house!"
The young man in black chuckled and approached Nhu Loan. He slapped her.
"Don't you DARE lie to me! My men had looked there already. There's no one."
"Have you looked in the basement?" She was a lot calmer now.
The guy was skeptical. He looked in her eyes, as if trying to see whether or not she was telling the truth.
"There's a basement?"
"Yes. I don't know exactly where but she told me about it once."
That was enough for him. He stood up straight and began to walk out of the room. "Kill 'em both."
They were about to fire as one of the men suddenly notice a red dot on his boss' head.
"SNIPER!" He yelled, as everyone, including himself, ducked the bullet. It missed the young men's head, into the wall.
"We've got company!" He said, the smile on his face dissapeared. "Let's go!"
Everyone ran out of the room, partly because of his order and mostly for their life, as two, three more bullets came breaking through the window. They ran like a bunch of chickens, knocking over everything on their way, including Nhu Loan. She went unconscious as her head hit hard against the wooden bed.

Don't walk away...

2007-05-25T12:12:00.000-07:00

After the long chat, everyone grew tired and decided to go to bed. There was only two beds and four of them. It was logical to split up in pairs but who's sleeping with who?

Minh Tuyet: I'm taking the left bed!
Luong Tung Quang: No way I wanted that bed!
Minh Tuyet: You're not sleeping with me!
Luong Tung Quang: Do you think I want to?

Bang Kieu and Nhu Loan looked at each other. There was never a time where Minh Tuyet and Luong Tung Quang never argued.

Minh Tuyet: I'm sleeping here whether you like it or not!
Luong Tung Quang: Well same here!
Minh Tuyet: Fine!
Luong Tung Quang; Fine!

The two leaped on the bed and scooted as far away from each other and went to sleep. Bang Kieu laughed and shook his head. Nhu Loan prepared their bed and they slipped in quietly. The two were about to sleep when all of a sudden they heard a loud thud.

Minh Tuyet: you did that on purpose!
Luong Tung Quang: Me? you fell off by yourself!
Minh Tuyet: You pushed me off the bed so you can have it all to yourself!
Luong Tung Quang: Or maybe you are just fat and you happen to roll off the bed!
Minh Tuyet (gasp): A size six is not fat!
Luong Tung Quang: Well maybe you have a higher density!
Bang Kieu: Guys! Guys!-
Minh Tuyet: I am not a dude!
Luong Tung Quang: Tuh! you sure look like-
Bang Kieu: Enough! Geeze after that nice talk you guys still are at each other's throats?
Luong Tung Quang: Well it's all her fault
Miinh Tuyet: You're not so innocent yourself
Nhu Loan: Come on, it's been a long day and I would like to get plenty of rest for tomorrow
Bang Kieu: Loey has a point, we have to get lots of rest cuz who knows what will happen tomorrow...how about Tuyet sleeps with me and you can sleep with Loey.
Luong Tung Quang: Fine

Bang Kieu looks over to Minh Tuyet, she didn't want to give up her bed but she reluctantly did and joined Bang Kieu in his. It was sure more comfortable than sleeping with Luong Tung Quang, maybe because she was able to be closer to Bang Kieu. Everyone had basically fell asleep except for Minh Tuyet. She was away from her home, away from her fans, and also in a dangerous situation. How can she sleep? She tossed and turned, trying to make herself sleep but nothing is working. The constant shifting disturbed Bang Kieu
Bang Kieu: Hey what's wrong?
Minh Tuyet: Nothing, I just can't sleep
Bang Kieu: Well try, come on, you don't want to wake up looking ugly

Minh Tuyet grinned, he always knows how to make her smile. She nodded and closed her eyes. Bang Kieu wrapped his arms around her like a teddy bear. There was a comfort feeling in Bang Kieu's touch, suddenly she didn't had any more worries, with Bang Kieu by her side. Minh Tuyet slowly dosed off.

Bang Kieu's phone vibrated and then a it started playing the ring tone. Bang Kieu slowly rolled over to the other side to the night stand being careful not to disturb Minh Tuyet. He grabbed the phone, and answered it. "Hello?" Bang Kieu's face expression changed as he heard the familiar voice on the other line. He quickly stood up and went outside. The sound of the door closing woke Minh Tuyet up. She was surprised to see that BK was no longer in bed. Looking for him, she heard his voice talking to someone outside in the hall. She went to the door and was about to open it when she heard him cried, "But, Kim!" so she stopped and decided that it was better to listen against the door.

Why in the world is that bitch calling Bang Kieu at this time? Minh Tuyet thought. Outside, Bang Kieu was almost screaming,
"What?!?... Well..." There was a long pause. "Why didn't you tell me?... But it's my son, I have the right to know!"
WHAT? Minh Tuyet put her hand to her mouth to prevent herself from yelling that out loud. Bang Kieu have a son? Since WHEN? Why don't I know anything about it?
"Is he okay now?....So that's it? Bring myself to him, that's all I have to do?... Well, how can I know you're not lying?..." There was another long pause as Minh Tuyet can hear Bang Kieu pacing up and down the hallway. "Alright. What time?...Alright, I'll do it."

The conversation she just heard was a shock to her. Until now, she had never realized that there was so many things about Bang Kieu that she didn't know. It was like a different Bang Kieu out there, talking to that ***** Kim. Minh Tuyet was too deep in her thoughts that she didn't even notice Bang Kieu hanging up his phone. Bang Kieu opened the door noticing that it wouldn't open as if someone or something was preventing him from coming in. Before Minh Tuyet can get a chance to move he pushed the door with more strength and it banged against her forehead. She rubbed it vigorously while trying not to let out a cry. Bang Kieu entered in and look behind the door to see what blocked the door. He saw Minh Tuyet in the corner

Bang Kieu: Tuyet? what were you doing behind the door? and did the door hit you?

Minh Tuyet knew she couldn't tell Bang Kieu that the reason she was got by the door was because she stood there listening to his conversation.

Minh Tuyet: Uh...uh...oh I couldn't sleep so I decided to go in this corner to think! hehehe
Bang Kieu(giving her a look): where the door is?
Minh Tuyet: Of course! it's the only place where there's no light! relaxes my head!
Bang Kieu: Were you listening to my conversation?

Minh Tuyet knew she couldn't lie to him, and it was obvious that she was eavesdropping.

Minh Tuyet: Alright, I did...BUT YOU CAN'T GO!
Bang Kieu: You can't stop me
Minh Tuyet: She is just using you!
Bang Kieu: I have a son!
Minh Tuyet: She could have banged someone else!
Bang Kieu: I have to go

He took out a gun from under the bed, and loaded it with bullets.

Minh Tuyet: I thought you left the gun back at the old church?
Bang Kieu: A friend gave it to me
Minh Tuyet: Is this friend "Kim" perhaps?
Bang Kieu: would you stop bringing her up! it's none of your business!
Minh Tuyet: Cuz you are just a toy to her! once you are broken or no use to her, she's just going to throw you away like last time!

Bang Kieu ignored her and headed for the door. Minh Tuyet didn't know what else to say to make him stop going to Kim. Desperate at this moment, she beat him to the door, shut it, locked it, beaming proudly at him as she stood in of the door.

Bang Kieu: Come on, I have to see my son
Minh Tuyet: You don't even know for sure
Bang Kieu: Well I won't not unless you step aside!
Minh Tuyet: I won't!

Bang Kieu knew he couldn't win this. Minh Tuyet has been stubborn her whole life and she is not going to change anytime soon.

Bang Kieu: Alright you win
Minh Tuyet: I have?
Bang Kieu: What's the use, you're not gonna let me go anyways.
Minh Tuyet: Of course!
Bang Kieu: It's just, I always wanted to have a child.
(tears flowing from his eyes, Minh Tuyet walks up to him)
Minh Tuyet: everything is going to be okay, you'll have one in the future
Bang Kieu: But what if it's too late?
Minh Tuyet: It's never too late, I have many girlfriends that-

Bang Kieu gently pushed Minh Tuyet aside, unlocked the door and ran out before Minh Tuyet can stop him. She was so mad that he had taken advantage of her.

Minh Tuyet: OH KIEU YOU ARE A MOTHER-

The door slams in her face, she can hear Bang Kieu apologizing as he gets into his car and speeds away.

Reunion

2007-05-19T22:06:00.000-07:00

Bang Kieu and LTQ left an hour ago and haven't came back yet. Even though she's no longer kept hostage, Minh Tuyet still felt scared and woried. Those two feelings overwhelmed the anger she would've had for Nhu Loan on normal days. She couldn't believe Nhu Loan and those contestants did this to her. LTQ deserved it but why me? That knucklehead always get me in trouble. she told herself. But now sitting alone in the hotel room, Minh Tuyet missed the presence of that knucklehead, well, not just him but also Bang Kieu...or anyone! She missed the company of another human. It was hard to be by yourself at a time like this.
Minh Tuyet prayed that her friends were okay and will be back soon, with or without Nhu Loan. She still couldn't understand why Bang Kieu decided to risked being caught and bring Nhu Loan back here. It's more than likely that this is just a trap set up by the cops. Besides, what can she do? She's already done enough.
She tried not to think about Nhu Loan anymore. It only makes matter worse. Suddenly something black lying on the bed caught Minh Tuyet's attention. It was someone's wallet--must be LTQ since she knows for sure it's not Bang Kieu's. Curiosity got the better of her and Minh Tuyet reached for the wallet. Inside she found an old picture of a familiar face of a girl who she could not quite remember. She took out the picture and look at the back. The handwritting was somewhat illegible but Minh Tuyet managed to make out the words.

"To: Chinh, From: Loey
Sorry, I forgot to save one of my current pics for you. I hope this makes it up. "

Then it hit her. This was Nhu Loan's high school picture! All her friends called her Loey back then. And Chinh must be LTQ's real name.

Her thoughts were interrupted as the door burst open. She quickly put the wallet down as Bang Kieu and Luong Tung Quang entered. Minh Tuyet was so happy to see them so she hugged both of them immediately. She felt the warmth of Luong Tung Quang's chest against her skin then just realized what she did.

Luong Tung Quang: What the hell are you thinking women?
Minh Tuyet: Uh..Uh...I wanted to hug Bang Kieu but you're in the way
Luong Tung Quang (rolling his eyes): sure... wait, did you look into my wallet?
There was anger in his voice as he looked at his opened wallet then Minh Tuyet.
"Well..."
"Give me back the picture!"
"What? You're afraid that I'm going to give away your secret?"
"What are you talking about?"

The moment Nhu Loan stepped into the room, both Minh Tuyet and Luong Tung Quang switched their attention from each other to her. They both stood in front of her with pissed off faces. Nhu Loan knew this would happen.

Minh Tuyet: How could you do this to me?
Luong Tung Quang: And me! I don't even know you!
Minh Tuyet (turning to LTQ): Shut up, you saw it coming
Luong Tung Quang: Maybe she was trying to teach you a lesson not to be so mean!
Nhu Loan: I was trying to teach both of you guys...
MT: Us? Why? what did we did you?
Luong Tung Quang: Do you have any idea what we went through?
Minh Tuyet: What I had to go through? (looking at LTQ)

The two went on yapping and Nhu Loan was stuck in between them, feeling even more guilty about what she did. Bang Kieu can't stand seeing or hearing his friends argue.
Bang Kieu: Guys! guys! stop it will ya? Okay she feels bad for what she did and she's here to make up for it.
MT: Really?
Nhu Loan: Yeah, I couldn't believe what they were doing to you guys and I thought it was just a harmless prank, didn't thought it would go this far and I'm sorry for what I did, I want to make it better...so can you guys forgive me?
Luong Tung Quang(tears flowing): Aw that's so sweet of you-
Minh Tuyet(elbowing him): Oh my god why can't you be a man about it!
Luong Tung Quang: Oh you shut up! Nhu Loan I forgive you.
Minh Tuyet: You always do!
Bang Kieu: TUYET!
Minh Tuyet: What? oh okay...I forgive you Nhu Loan.

All four of them gather in a group hug, it was the first time they reunited as a foursome. They all sat down on the kitchen table, brewed the cheap instant coffee provided by the hotel, chatting and rambling on about all kinds of things. Bang Kieu then noticed the little picture that Minh Tuyet was holding in her hand.
"What's that you got in your hand?" Bang Kieu asked.
LTQ suddenly remember that he still haven't got his picture back and went to seize it from her. They accidentally tore the picture into pieces.
LTQ: LOOK AT WHAT YOU'VE DONE!
Minh Tuyet: Me? You could've ask and I would've given it back to you!
LTQ: RIGHT!
Nhu Loan: Wait, is that my picture?
Minh Tuyet: Yes, it is. Nhu Loan, meet your long lost secret admirer in high school.
Minh Tuyet turned her look to LTQ and the four of them stood staring at each other in silence until Bang Kieu said, "Wow... So we all knew each other then." He realized the blush on LTQ's face and tried to change the subject. "Do you guys remember in preschool Minh Tuyet and Luong Tung Quang always argue over the littlest things."
Nhu Loan: Like crayons
Luong Tung Quang: Hey! she always takes the best color!
Minh Tuyet: So! you always color outside the lines!
Luong Tung Quang: Nuh uh!
Minh Tuyet: Uh huh!
Luong Tung Quang: Nuh uh!
Bang Kieu: See? they still do (Nhu Loan giggles)
MT & LTQ: We do not!
Nhu Loan: remember in junior high, everyone accused Bang Kieu of being a women
Luong Tung Quang: and Anh Kieu pulled his pants and underwear down to prove it!
Minh Tuyet: you sure had the balls to do that (everyone laughs, Bang Kieu blushes)
Luong Tung Quang: How about the time we were all playing baseball at my backyard-
Bang Kieu: Oh yeah! I was pitching and-
Nhu Loan: And the freaking ball hit my mouth! Of all places!
Luong Tung Quang: Well your lucky it's not your entire face
Nhu Loan: That was not funny! I was about to say I wasn't ready!
Bang Kieu: Well I didn't hear you! it doesn't matter anyways cuz you got all those dates afterwards (everyone laughs, Nhu Loan grinned her crooked teeth)
Minh Tuyet: Man I can't believe we forgot that we knew each other back in the old days!
Bang Kieu: Well it's been so long, we kinda forgot about each other
Luong Tung Quang: Yeah, after graduation, we kinda moved on with our lives
Nhu Loan: It's nice that we're back again, it's like a mini high school reunion!
Everyone: Yeah...

He kill...

2007-05-18T23:33:00.000-07:00

Frantically, Minh Tuyet was trying to put back a callable device out of her broken phone. She's seen them do it in the movies and she's good with electronics, so after several of hours, she finally managed to patch the little pieces into something. She wasted no time and went ahead to call Bang Kieu again. She kept redialing his number and again and again but there was no dialing tone. It wasn't long till she noticed that the battery was running out and there was very little power left on the phone to track a signal, and even if it did, she won't be able to get it up high in the air since it is so fragile now. She was so angry that she let out a yell. Luong Tung Quang was napping in the corner when he heard loud noises that woke him up. It didn't took a genius to realize that it was Minh Tuyet.

Luong Tung Quang: Would you stop it already, gosh, people are trying to sleep!
Minh Tuyet: Someone is starting to get comfortable
Luong Tung Quang: Hey I'm just trying to make the most of it!

Suddenly the phone rang and she immediately put her ear to it. I must be Bang Kieu, though she couldn't understand what he was saying. All she heard was that he told her not to worry and that he will find them. Luong Tung Quang edged closer to hear. Minh Tuyet felt rather annoyed to have him there. Before Bang Kieu can finish, Minh Tri burst into the room in anger. He had already heard the loud ringtone and was already on his way up. He grabbed the phone and threw it out the window with Bang Kieu's voice trailing off. Minh Tri was beating her down and throwing her across the room. Luong Tung Quang sat there witnessing it. He couldn't bare to hear her cries in pain and he knew also that once the guy was done with Minh Tuyet, he was next. Luong Tung Quang jumped on Minh Tri's back and attempt to poke Minh Tri's eye out, not a very fair play but you gotta do what you gotta do. Both guys struggle with one another while Minh Tuyet sat there shocked at Luong Tung Quang's sudden heroic action.
---------------------------

(Bang Kieu)
Bang Kieu stepped hard on the gas. He had to get there fast. During such a life-and-death situation, Bang Kieu suddenly felt like his old self again. After that one incident he had never drive this fast. He reached under his seat with one hand and pulled out a gun. He took his eyes off the road for a fraction of a second to make sure that there were still bullets inside. His past that he thought he had long forgotten came surging back into his mind. It suddenly feel so good to hold a gun in his hand once again. Kieu, wake up, you have two lives to save, he told himself. This is no time to daydream.
He stopped his car within a safe distance from the church and started to run on foot. He had no idea how many of them there are and it's best to take them by surprise rather than drive all the way up there, informing them that he's coming.
Bang Kieu took the backdoor and cautiously took a peek through the holes on the door. LTQ was fighting Minh Tri and Minh Tuyet was sitting on the floor. Not quite what he expected, but even better. Knowing that it was his best chance, Bang Kieu kicked the door open.
--------------------------

At the sight of a sudden intruding, Minh Tuyet thought that Minh Tri's men had went inside to help him. She didn't even stop to see who it was before tackling him down, and broke his hold of the gun. It fell on the floor, several feet away from them.
Minh Tri finally broke loose of LTQ and put him in front as a shield against possible bullets coming in his direction. But to his surprise, it wasn't the bullets but Bang Kieu who hit him and threw his arms around his neck to hold him in place. Taken by surprise, Minh Tri's grip on LTQ loosen and the guy got out. Bang kieu didn't hesitated to strike at the gangster. It has been a few years since he really used his muscles and it's still in good shape. Bang Kieu was feeling rather confident until Minh Tri kicked him in the stomach. He fell to the ground, grasping his stomach in pain, Minh Tuyet was worried, she wanted to do something to help but she was too stunned to move. Minh Tri chuckled as he begin kicking Bang Kieu.

Minh Tri: "You dare to f*** with me? (kick)
Bang Kieu: Oh!
Minh Tri: Take that you piece of s***! (another kick)
Bang Kieu: Aw!

Luong Tung Quang crawled quickly to where the gun laid. Minh Tri was too busy beating up Bang Kieu to notice what had happen.Minh Tri kneeled by Bang Kieu's side and started choking Bang Kieu. Seeing her friend about to die, Minh Tuyet wanted to get up and do something but Luong Tung Quang stopped her. Bang Kieu's arms and legs were flying in the air frantically trying to break free of Minh Tri's grasp. Luong Tung Quang aimed the gun at the back and fired, Minh Tri's body jerked he looked down and was rather stunned at the blood gushing out of his body. He loosen his grip on Bang Kieu. In a matter of seconds, Minh Tri drop to the floor, his eyes glazed and his face soften, blood immediately poured on the ground. Minh Tuyet rushed to Bang Kieu's side and buried herself in his arms. Luong Tung Quang couldn't believe what he had done, the gun fell to the floor and he fell to his knees. The sound of police sirens was getting louder by the second and Bang Kieu suddenly realized that if they were to get caught, who knows what it could do to their reputation and possibly their lives. Both Minh Tuyet and Luong Tung Quang knew this as well and they quickly raced out the door and escaped through the back of the building.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nhu Loan stepped out of the police car. After the police told her that there was a gang involved in this, she was worried about her colleagues even more. Of course, how can she live with herself when she knew she was responsible for the prank that lead to this. The police rushed into the old church while she stood outside, leaning against the car. An officer came out and told her that they found a dead body, and it's one of the gang members but no sign of Minh Tuyet or Luong Tung Quang. Nhu Loan was scared. She though maybe something bad happened to them. Then she remembered about the call earlier from Bang Kieu. He was asking about Minh Tuyet... could he be involved in this also? Nhu Loan took out her phone and went back inside her car, closing the soundproof door. Guilt was killing her. The least she can do now is to call Bang Kieu and inform him of the situation, wherever he is, since she and the police had already tried to contact Minh Tuyet and LTQ this morning. She owned him an apology and explanation. She doesn't even care if he'll go mad--well, she knew she deserved it. Hiding the truth from him is more than she can bear.
"I'm sorry" was her first words once Bang Kieu picked up.
There was awkward silence, and then Nhu Loan went ahead to tell him the story.
"Is there anything I can do for help?"
Again, there was silence, as if Bang Kieu was skeptical as to whether or not he should trust her. Finally, he said.
"Come to Franklin Theatre tomorrow night at 8. Use the backdoor and wait for us in the dressing room"

Send me a signal

2007-05-12T11:44:00.000-07:00

After the taping of the talent show, Nhu Loan went back to her apartment for some relaxation. The prank she and the contestants pulled off really exhausted her and all she wants to do now is have a nice bubble bath and then after go channel surfing on tv. She slump her way to the bathroom, she turned the faucet of the bathtub and grabbed the bottle of Victoria's Secret love potion bubble bath and poured it under the running water. The bathtub begin foaming instantly, she got undressed and slipped into tub. She soaked for like a half an hour, breathing in the light fragrance and lathering herself in foamy goodness. When she felt her skin was getting a bit wrinkly she rinsed off and slipped into her robe. She was definitely relaxed and ready to sit down and watch some late night shows. She plopped herself on the couch, she had a bowl of cheese puffs in hand and the remote in the other. Flipping through channels while munching on the chips, she didn't find anything good on tv. No surprise since there's never anything good, but then something caught her eye, it was a new episode that premiered earlier and now it's playing again. It was a reality show, and Nhu Loan is a reality show fan herself. The opening sequence was explaining about the show and that these two famous people are trapped in an old church and their struggles. She thought it sounded similar to survivor but she thought since there's celebrities, it'll be interesting. She popped a cheese puff into her mouth when Minh Tuyet and Luong Tung Quang came on screen. Her mouth suddenly hang wide open, the cheese puff dangled out of her mouth as she was shocked at what she was seeing in front of her eyes. She didn't knew the prank would go that far, the cheese puff finally fell to the ground as Nhu Lona reached for the phone and immediately called the police. After a long explanation, they accept the case and will be right on it. They told her to report to the police station for questioning. She hung up, let out a long sigh then got up to change into some casual clothes before heading to the station.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Bang Kieu found himself once again sitting on the chair inside his room, the exact same spot he was 3 hours ago. There were several empty cups of coffee lying around on the table. All that caffein didn't help him like they usually do. He's just as clueless about where they were now and 3 hours ago. He went inside that theatre and searched every possible places for any traces of them but none was found. This is too frustrating!!!
Bang Kieu took out LTQ's phone and started to play with it. What if there was something in there? By accident, Bang Kieu pressed the speed dial, which to his surprise, was Minh Tuyet. He was about to cancel it but held it to his ear instead. It was worth one last try before bringing this to the police. SHE PICKED UP!
"TUYET!" Bang Kieu screamed in excitment and relief.
"....."
-----------------------

"Oh my gosh! Quang! It's Bang Kieu!" She called to LTQ. "Hello! Can you hear me?"
"....."
"Man, the signal is so low. Quang, come here." Minh Tuyet gestured for him to come closer, for the first time since their stay at the creepy old church. "Get down on your hands and knees." She ordered.
"What?" He cried in confusion.
Too irritated to say anymore, Minh Tuyet shoved him to the floor with one push and climbed onto his back to get better signal.
"OW! What are you doing? Crazy women!...Naughter girl!" LTQ protested.
"Kieu! Can you hear me now?" Minh Tuyet said, ignoring LTQ. I'll get you later, she thought.
"Ye...b...its...v..y...."
Minh Tuyet tried to stand on her toes to get taller.
"WOMEN, YOU'RE WEARING HIGH HEELS! FOR GOD's SAKE!" LTQ yelled.
"We're at an old church in the mountains! Save us!" Minh Tuyet said, still ignoring the mumbling LTQ who was in pain.
------------------------

Minh Tuyet was still inaudible for him. Bang Kieu tried to climb on everything he could find climbable. First his chair, then the sofa, the bed, the table... He finally decided that it's best if he climbed onto the rooftop. And so he went.
"HOLD ON!"
Bang Kieu knew that if a paparazzi get a snapshot of him, or even worse, a video of him, climbing the rooftop, yelling into the phone like some ranaways from the mental institution, he will be in big trouble. But who cares. He needed to get better signal.
"CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW?"
"Yes! It's a..bit.... but I can hea.. yo..alright!"
"WHERE ARE YOU?"
"I'm not sure. All ... know is me and LTQ wa kid..na..p..and we... in some abandoned ch..urch in the mountain!"
Bang Kieu took mental notes of what she said... abandoned church in the moutain.
"ARE YOU GUYS OKAY?"
"OF COURSE NOT! COME GET US!"
Bang Kieu had to pull the phone away from his ear to prevent her voice from damaging it. Lucky for him the signal was weak. Just wonder what she can do when the signal was good.
------------------------

"And.." Minh Tuyet could not finnish her sentence. The door burst open and the guy who threatened them earlier came out of nowhere.
"You B*tch!" He ran toward her, grabbed the phone. Minh Tuyet jumped at him and tried to bring him down but he was too strong. The guy, with one hand trying to wrestle Minh Tuyet, threw the phone on the floor with his other hand and broke it into little pieces. He then broke Minh Tuyet's grip of his neck easily and shoved her into LTQ, who was standing and doing nothing during all that time.
Minh Tuyet pushed LTQ away and yelled "What are you doing? Why didn't you jump in and help?"
Minh Tri: "Chickens." He turned to Minh Tuyet, "One more time, and you're dead."
He left, laughing like crazy on his way out.
------------------------

Bang Kieu called Duong Trieu Vu. If there was anyone who can help now, it's him.
"What's up?" Duong Trieu Vu said.
"Hey, do you know where the D.R. gang was at two nights ago?" It must be them, Bang Kieu thought. He heard Minh Tri's voice on the phone before the other line went dead. Everything's so clean. No traces left behind. It must be them.
"Oh, I saw them hanging around the what's-its-name Theater. It was odd since that's our territory, you know. They don't wander around there much. They're not supposed to..."
"Alright, alright. By any chance, do you know of any abandoned church around here that's located in the mountains?"
"Yea. There's one in the Little Hills."
"Directions?"
He gave him the directions as Bang Kieu wrote them down on a piece of paper.
"Thanks." He hung up. DTV was about to ask something but there was no time. He had to act fast. If Minh Tri's there, that's super bad news.

Mistake and Misplaced

2007-05-11T17:26:00.000-07:00

(Bang Kieu)
Bang Kieu shut his phone close and put it back inside his pocket. Once again, Minh Tuyet didn't pick up. It's been two days already since last time he's talked to her. Where is she? What's going on? Was she mad at me? What'd I do? Bang Kieu started to think as hundred of questions poped up in his mind. He had an uneasy feeling, and he was worried about his friend. He tried to call her numerous times, and even dropped by her house once, but there was no sight of Minh Tuyet. He didn't dare entering the house for he feared of the paparazzis hiding somewhere on the street, and now he's regretting it.
Bang Kieu started to list all the reasons for her absent but none seemed reasonable enough. He took out his phone and started calling everyone who might have come in contact with her for the past few days.
After an hour of calling, he got nothing. No one knew where she was. No one cared. However, there was LTQ and Marie who didn't pick up their phones. If they, too, knew nothing about Minh Tuyet, then he'll go to the police.
Bang Kieu sank into his chair and closed his eyes, trying to relax. Nothing bad happened, it's all in your head, Bang Kieu told himself, though it was no help. After a long time of trying to calm himself down, he gave up and went outside to get some coffee.
On his way, Marie called.
"Um, she was supposed to be at a show with LTQ and Nhu Loan the night before yesterday. That's all I know." Marie said.
"Did she make it there?"
"Yes."
"Have you talked to her since then?"
"No."
"Well..." Bang Kieu got out of his car and paused as he caught the sight of a familiar black convertible in the parking lot across the street.
"You still there?" Marie asked impatiently.
"Yea. Marie, where was the show?"
"Let me see..."
"Was it at the Reds?"
"Yes! That's the place."
"Thanks. Bye." He hang up and walked across the street, toward the Reds Theater, and toward the black convertible.
Bang Kieu remembered it now. He had offered Minh Tuyet a ride to the place since her limo driver was sick that day but she refused because Marie had ordered her to ride with LTQ. They needed to learn to get along, since from now on they'll be working together a lot. But the truth is, she said, I want to annoy him, just for the fun of it.
Bang Kieu looked inside the car and found a bottle of water, the kind that Minh Tuyet usually drinks. With no doubt, she was in the car. He was afraid that LTQ had done something to her. What a silly idea. He tried to call LTQ again, and to his surprise, a phone nearby went off. The sound came from inside the car. He searched frantically for it, and found it lying under the driver's seat. The miss calls dated all the way back to the night of the show. Apparently, someone had dropped his phone while getting out of the car but never get to come back for it.
----------------------------------------------

It has been a few days since all the contestants joined together to kidnap both Minh Tuyet and fellow contestant Luong Tung Quang. While others regretted it, thinking they were going a little too far, Sunny Luong was one of the few who found the whole experience fun and amusing. One day David Meng decided to allow the contestants to have a peek into Minh Tuyet and LTQ's "hostage-life". He showed them this private small room filled with video monitors, all showing various shots of both Minh Tuyet and Luong Tung Quang trapped in the same room. As they were freaking out and yelling at each other for stupid reasons, everyone else laughed.

David: "They installed hidden security cameras and hidden mics around the room so we can monitor them"

Watching the two bicker at little stupid things and the idiotic things they did had everyone on the ground rolling in laughter. Someone mentioned that watching this, was like watching "The Real World" but instead it's more comedic. Suddenly an idea popped in Sunny's head.
Everyone was finally tired of all the laughing and left to go home. The only people left in the room were Sunny and David. They were cleaning up the room, putting things back to where they were, David took the tapes containing footage of Minh Tuyet and Luong Tung Quang and was about to throw them in a dumpster when Sunny stopped him.

Sunny: Wait, wait, wait! David, what are you doing?
David: Throwing them away, the guys have no use for them and we all saw it already.
Sunny: Yeah but not everyone...
David: What do you mean?
Sunny (smiling): I mean we can make reality show out of it!
David: You mean?
Sunny: Yeah, show it to the public and make a fortune!

David like the idea, he is able to embarrass the stupid pretty boy and ruin his career so he can take his place...shame that Minh Tuyet has to go down with him, he was thinking of having a duet with her when he wins but sacrifices must be made.

David: Yeah you got it!

A night with a killer

2007-05-06T13:23:00.000-07:00

Minh Tuyet didn't know how long she had slept but it felt like days to her. She found herself on the hard ground of what seemed like an old church. She looked around her surroundings trying to figure out where she was but all she see were walls. It was dark with only the moonlight shining through the stain-glass windows, barely helping other than enhanced the gloomy mood. Terrified thinking she was alone , she frantically search for a way out

"Help? somebody help me!"

She was too busy trying to find an exit that she didn't see what was in front of her so she tripped and fell on top of it. At first she thought it was a dead body but then he was still breathing. With closer inspection, it was Luong Tung Quang sleeping. Suddenly Minh Tuyet didn't felt scared anymore but more annoyed. She tried to shake him and slapping him to wake up. After trying for a few minutes she gave up and sat in a corner only a few feet a way from him.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Luong Tung Quang woke up with a cramp in his neck. His face felt numb and he didn't know why. He got up very slowly and noticed that he was in an unfamiliar environment. Thinking he was alone in the pitch dark room, he let out a loud shriek and hugged a nearby column for some comfort.

Minh Tuyet was napping when all of a sudden she heard crying from nearby. She realized that it was the annoying Luong Tung Quang. Rolling her eyes she snucked behind him and shouted,

"Oh would you SHUT UP!"

He jumped and turned around. Happy to see Minh Tuyet, he flung his arms around her,

"Oh Tuyet! I'm so glad to see you, I thought I was alone!!!!"
(she rolled her eyes)"Back OFF!"

He backed off, not wanting another kick from her. The last one left him limping for days. Slowly, his eyes filled in fear. Minh Tuyet can sense that he was afraid of something and she couldn't help but ask.

"Now what?"
"I-I-I'm afraid of the dark"

She tried not to smile and looked away. He took advantage of that and inched closer and closer to her, thinking she would be okay with it. But then, Minh Tuyet barked at him the moment their shoulders touched and she continued to ramble on ending it with a "Stay two feet away from me!" Luong Tung Quang slide down against the wall and curled up. They sat there in silence until someone came in...
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Minh Tri)

Minh Tri burst through the door without any hesitation to knock. He saw the two begin to huddle together in fear which brought him great joy. He grinned and slowly made his way up to them. Minh Tuyet and Luong Tung Quang weren't sure whether he was coming to slaughter them or rob them but he end up not doing any of them. All he did was just stand there and still grinning while they shiver in each other's arms. He finally broke the awkward silence:

Minh Tri: Alright! who's gonna die first? (holding up a gun)
Luong Tung Quang: D-D Die?
Minh Tuyet: Why?
Minh Tri: Because you have to
Luong Tuang Quang and Minh Tuyet: But why?
Minh Tri: Enough! no body ask questions on why they die, they just do!
Luong Tung Quang and Minh Tuyet: Yeah
Minh Tri: are you two a couple?

They looked at each other, then at him, and then back at each other. Minh Tuyet didn't want to die with everyone thinking she and Luong Tung Quang were a couple. She suddenly pushed him away, putting her hands on her hips

Minh Tuyet: WE ARE NOT A COUPLE!
Luong Tung Quang: why would you think that? We never-
Minh Tri: SHUT UP! I don't care anymore I'll just shoot both of you!

He held up the gun and pulled the trigger slowly, Luong Tung Quang was on his knees reciting prayers while Minh Tuyet was listing reasons why not to kill her. He counted down starting by five then four, three, two, one...BANG! Minh Tuyet and Luong Tuang jumped at the sound and both were on the ground thinking they were dying. Minh Tri chuckled, dropping the gun down on the floor and left. After a few minutes of crying in agony, both realized that there wasn't even mark on their bodies. Luong Tung Quang took the gun and saw the barrel had no bullets in it and there's no bullet or mark where they were. They sat there in silence, the only light in the room suddenly turned off.

Luong Tung Quang: It's dark...I'm scared
Minh Tuyet: Oh grow up!

Foolish Prank

2007-05-05T11:34:00.000-07:00

Nhu Loan was sitting in the mini van with David, and some other contestants who wanted to join the fun. They were getting ready. She still could not believe that they would actually do it. It sounds rather childish to her, this whole "teach-them-a-lesson" thing. Besides, her instincts told her that this is a very bad idea. But she's already gone too far and Nhu Loan does not like others to think of her as some chicken. She's a chick with guts. With that thought in mind, Nhu Loan forced herself to go to the meeting yesterday with the three contestants and now forcing herself to carry out the plan.
David: "It's time to go. You're ready?"
She nodded and tried to hide the worries with a smile. There were millions of butterflies in her stomach.
David: "Listen, I'll go over the plan one more time. All you have to do, is to go in there, perform, act like nothing's going on. This is a small show; it won't take more than one and a half hour. During that time, you'll have to find a way to put this in LTQ and Minh Tuyet's drink." He handed her two pills, wrapped inside a piece of paper.
"This takes about 30 minutes to work, so it's best to have them drink it during the 10-minutes break. By the time the show's over and everyone has gone home, they'll be trouble to us no more. All you have to do is to call me and I'll have my people drag 'em out to another van parked behind the theater. Tell me, what should you do if there's people around the instant they fall asleep?"
"I'll say that they haven't got enough sleep lately and that I'll take them home since we all live on the same street." Nhu Loan replied. "Then I'll call you guys in to get them and have things cleaned up. Leave no trace behind."
"And?"
"If anyone asks, I'll say that they woke up and left already."
"Good. You're ready. Let's go. Don't forget your leather gloves."
"Thanks." Nhu Loan said and put the gloves on.

The show had already started by the time she arrived.
"You're late." The manager said.
"You're early." She replied and kept walking, not paying attention to the guy anymore.
Minh Tuyet was the first to sing. She's next but what to worry, she's ready. Hopefully. Her head was full of "what if" questions and she could not help but feel scared and nervous. She almost jumped when someone tapped on her shoulder.
"Geez, Loan. I was just...trying to get your attention."
"Oh..." Nhu Loan tried to calmed herself down as she saw it was LTQ. "Hi"
"Woa, what have you been doing? You're sweating!"
"Yea, it's hot in here."
"Hot? What you talkin’ about? I'm wearing three shirts and a jacket."
"Well... I'm used to much colder environment..." She lied.
"Really?"
"Yea. I guess I'll go get a coke or something to cool myself down."
"I can go get it for you." He offered. The guy's not half as bad as she thought he was. But who knows.
"Nah it's alright." She forced a smile and went away to get the Coke despite the fact that she was not at all thirsty, just to get away from people for now. She’s nervous and she knew she showed it. Better get myself together before going onstage.

Nhu Loan had been very observant and patience during that 10-minute break, waiting for her chance. But everything was very risky. There are too many people around. Minh Tuyet's holding on to her bottle of watter while LTQ had too many around, making it impossible to know which is the one he'll drink.
"I'm going to get another Coke. Anybody wants one?" Nhu Loan asked. It was the only way.
LTQ said yes right away whereas Minh Tuyet refused politely. Oh well, Nhu Loan thought, I'll take my chances--she can't hold on to that bottle of water forever. She went to get the coke and just to her luck, no one was around. But then she felt how idiotic she was. In order to put the pills inside, she'll have to break the seal around the cap and that'll draw suspicion. "I'm just getting all worried about nothing. No one will notice that!" She told herself and went ahead to open the bottle and put the pill inside. The pill was small and by the time she got back, it'll all be dissolved.
Minh Tuyet was not in the room, and her water bottle left unguarded. Nhu Loan took the opportunity and dropped the pill inside as LTQ drank the Coke without the least suspicion of whatsoever.

The plan went rather well. No one asked anything. No one suspected anything. It was like a miracle. LTQ & Minh Tuyet were now on their way to the abandoned church up in the mountain, 5 hours of driving away. Nhu Loan still hasn’t left the place. She looked around for the 5th time, making sure that no traces were left behind. The water bottles, Coke, piece of paper that contained the pills were already in her gigantic purse. Have she forgot something? The ringing of her cell phone disturbed her thoughts. It was David.
"Loan, is everything okay? What's taking you so long?"
"I'm just making sure everything's taken care of."
"You're only drawing attention to yourself. It would be odd that a singer would stay so long after the show's over."
"I have plenty of excuses."
"Doesn't matter. Get out. Now. We still have to burn those things."
"Alright. Hey, gimme 5 minutes."
She hung up and headed quickly to the lady's room, telling herself, Man, all those Cokes...

Next >>

Tinh Du Tram Loi: The Untold Story

2007-05-04T13:39:00.000-07:00