Den-Den Town is out. It's too obvious and getting a Lite is a no-go here. Think, think, think, think. I run down the stairs at Nipponbashi Station, buy a ticket, clear the wickets and jump on the train just as the doors are closing. I swallow. Throat's killing me.

The train pushes forward, emerging from underground. Grey morning sun fills the car, muting the dull artificial light. The train glides over the Yodo River. Everything is wrapped in mist.

There's a used book/manga/DVD/video game store somewhat nearby. It's a hike on foot, but worth the trek. Since it is still early enough, chances are this store could be our saving grace. Everybody's in Umeda, waiting at Yodobashi Camera, right? There or Den-Den Town. This store is an oversight.

The train doors burst open, and I run until the back of my throat tickles with dryness. I need something to drink. First though, I have to go home to get something: wheels.

Kid or not, what I actually need is a cooler bike.

The neighborhood is slowly coming alive. Old ladies water plants and children leave for Saturday school. I peddle at a good pace, figuring at this rate I can get there in twenty minutes.

I get there in fifteen.

There's a short line in front of the store. Ah, this totally looks doable. There's what, twenty people in line. We're in! This is it!

"Are you waiting for a DS Lite?"
"Yes," says a young dude, waiting with his girlfriend. "Not sure if we'll be able to get one."
"Really? Why's that?"
"There aren't enough."
"How do you know?"
"Might want to check out the notice on the door."

I ascend the staircase, passing a folks perched on the stairs. It's like their homeless, drunk or something. There is a notice that says the store will open at 9:30 am. Hours away. At the bottom of the poster, I see it. Clear as day.

The white is sold out, and there are only 5 Enamel Navy DS Lites. The Ice Blue is on sale. Another poster says there are only five of those. The grand total for this store is ten.

Behind me, a woman is sitting on the floor, eating a rice ball. First in line.

"What time did you come here?" I ask.
"Midnight."
"Midnight? You must be tired."
"Who are buying the DS Lite for?"
"Myself."

Alone, she smiles.

I head over to the convenience store nearby. I buy a Kit-Kat, some rolls and lemon tea. I cop a squat next to some Italian restaurant and have breakfast. My throat's raw and irriated, making it hard to eat the rolls. I look across the street at the people lined up and seriously doubt those five Enamel Navy DS Lites will find good homes.

DS Lite [Official Site]