Disclaimer:Tenchi Muyo is not mine, it's owned by Pioneer and AIC, I'm just writing about them. So don't sue me. Also, this is NOT a Sasami lemon. I've said it before, I'll say it again. I don't write Sasami lemons. They're nasty. Now, if you ever see me use Sasami in a lemon scene, it is DEFINITELY,WITHOUT A DOUBT, Sasami's adult form. Just so you know. Tsunami's Beauty by Dade Gifford Sasami awoke with a start from another of her prophetic dreams. She was covered in sweat, a lock of hair plastered to her forehead. For a frenzied moment, Sasami glanced around the room. Satisfied that she was safe, Sasami flopped back down into her futon. Slowly, the dream came back to her. Sasami had been standing in the Royal Tree Nursery, looking at Tsunami's tree. She watched as Tenchi walked by, totally ignoring her. "Tenchi? Tenchi, wait!" she cried. Suddenly, roots from Tsunami shot out. They embedded themselves in her wrists, her mouth, her neck. She tried to scream, but couldn't because of the roots. Sasami was pulled into the tree. Then, she couldn't breathe. Looking to her left and right, she saw that she was no longer herself, but now a part of the tree. Tenchi came running up. "Sasami? Sasami, are you all right?" She tried to respond, but instead, a voice that wasn't hers came out. "Tenchi, I'm right here." Tenchi turned away from Sasami to her adult form, who was now standing behind Tenchi. The adult came up to Sasami, and touched her. With a rushing motion, she was no longer in the tree, but now in the adult body. Sasami fell forwards. Then she felt strong arms lifting her up, and she looked into Tenchi's eyes. He leaned forwards and kissed her. Sasami was shocked...even more so when Tenchi moved his tongue into her mouth. Tenchi unfastened his shirt, and started to work on his pants... And then she woke up with a flash. What it meant, she wasn't exactly sure, but something about the dream scared her. Maybe because her birthday was tomorrow? But that didn't seem to have much relevance. Her dreams usually weren't spawned by celebrations. Sasami tried not to think about it as she got up and got dressed. Aeka was still asleep, rolled over on her side, facing away from Sasami. She left the room and walked down the silent hall, her bare feet making nearly no noise on the floorboards. Tenchi would not be waking up for another half an hour, Ryoko for another hour, Aeka usually shortly after Tenchi, Mihoshi...no one knew. Sasami had everyone's waking time memorized, and was prepared to get breakfast done before them. "Ohayo, Sasami," said Katsuhito, as Sasami reached the kitchen. "Ohayo, Jiichan," she replied. Upon entering the kitchen, she opened up a cupboard and pulled out a few ingredients, including the rice, egg, and shoyru. Soon, the sounds of frying and the delicious smells permeated the walls of the Masaki residence. As if on cue, Tenchi arrived into the kitchen. "Ohayo, Sasami." "Ohayo, Tenchi." Sasami gave Tenchi his serving of breakfast, and also handed him his bento box. He and Katsuhito conversed about sword practice, and all the things Tenchi was doing wrong. Aeka came down the stairs next, looking just as prim and proper as always. "Ohayo Tenchi, Sasami." "Ohayo Aeka." Aeka sat down and took her usual petite portion of food and the tea that jiichan had prepared carefully. Just a delicate droplet of the shoyru on her rice, as usual, and easier on the ramen. Mihoshi stepped into the room. "Ohayo everybody!" "Ohayo Mihoshi." Tenchi looked up. "Uhh, Mihoshi, what's that on your face?" he said, indicating a brightly colored object. "Hmm? Oh, so THAT'S where the last Skittle went!!" she promptly took it off her face and popped it into her mouth. Tenchi sighed. Mihoshi took her rice with plenty of shoyru. She also took some ramen. She took some tea, but didn't tend to get several drinks of it like the rest did. Tenchi finished eating, picked up his bento box, and started for the door. "See you later, Sasami, Aeka." "Bye Tenchi." Aeka left, then Mihoshi, then Katsuhito. About another forty- five minutes later, Ryoko showed up, yawning. "Hey, Sasami." "Ohayo, Ryoko." Ryoko took a heaping helping of food, and took a bottle of sake from the cupboard instead of the tea. Before anyone could say anything disapproving to her, she teleported away, as usual. Sasami gathered up the dishes and put them in the sink. She took a dishcloth and some soap, and began to wash them. Not too long after she started, Aeka showed up to help her. "Thanks, Aeka." "Not a problem, Sasami-chan." They washed in silence for a while. Soon, Sasami broke the silence. "Aeka, have you ever had a dream about Tenchi?" Aeka seemed flustered. "Um, well... To be honest, yes, Sasami I do, about every night." "What usually happens in those dreams?" "Um, ah....um..." "Does Tenchi take his shirt and pants off, Aeka?" she said in a perfectly innocent tone. Aeka's face turned bright red. "W-why do you ask, Sasami?" "Oh, no reason. It's just because I had that kind of dream about him last night. I just wanted to know if dreams involving him are usually like that." Aeka was stunned beyond words for a while. A deep red blush became her new skin color for a good fifteen minutes. "Er..Sasami, is there any...ah, particular reason why you might be dreaming of Tenchi?" "I'm not sure. Tsunami was in the dream, too, only I became one with her in it. Then Tenchi did that." "....has there been something..happening between you two?" "Whatever do you mean, Aeka?" "Um....nevermind." Sasami set back to her work, trying to get a particularly tough stain off of the latest dish. After this was completed, she was done, and dried her hands off. Aeka, upon finishing, hurriedly walked out the back door. Sasami knew, of course, what Aeka had been insinuating. Just because she looked young and naïve didn't mean a thing. She'd had fun with what she'd said earlier. And of course she knew Aeka had dreams about Tenchi. Sasami had ears, she could hear what Aeka said in her sleep. thought Sasami. She'd guessed by now that Aeka was going out to see Tenchi and to secure him for herself. Sasami knew that Aeka was a bit paranoid at times, and that Aeka actually thought Sasami and Tenchi had something going on. Sasami had a crush on Tenchi, that she was certain of. But she didn't know how Tenchi felt, and was too young to do anything about it anyway. And as for the whole assimilation process...she didn't really want to dwell on that. Sasami wasn't sure if she would still be "in charge," or if Tsunami would have control over the body and Sasami would be the background element. No matter how much Tsunami explained it, Sasami still couldn't comprehend it the way the goddess did. Sasami sighed, thinking about this. She shook her head, and thought about something less depressing to her. Sasami got a wet washcloth and wiped the table clean quickly, and then sat at the couch. Ryo-ohki joined her momentarily. "Oh, hi, Ryo-ohki! Where've you been?" "Myaa! Miya myaa myaa meow." Sasami paused as if trying to comprehend this. Ryo-ohki tried to help with paw gestures, but Sasami didn't get it. Instead, she just shook her head, then petted Ryo-ohki, saying, "You're so cute." Ryo-ohki sighed a miya, and settled down into Sasami's lap. On the TV was an anime, but not very exciting. Something about four or five people who went around in a living spaceship. What was the name? Outlaw...Outlaw...something. But Sasami didn't feel like watching it, so she clicked over to the next channel. It was a gameshow, but one of the lesser-funded ones. It had lame prizes for the "winners," and amazingly painful things for those who weren't. One man, after having lost, got hit with a medicine ball. He fell onto pads, but he still looked shaken up. Sasami sighed. She flicked through a few more channels, but still nothing interesting. Food show...anime...gameshow...movie... telethon...infomercial...news...shopping channel...another movie...soap opera... Sasami flicked rapidly now, passing various combinations of the aforementioned with less and less interest. After a while, she gave up and hit the power button. <7,835,723 channels, and still, not a single thing to watch.> Ryo-ohki was looking up at Sasami, her little puffball tail wagging. Sasami smiled and petted Ryo-ohki, who nuzzled her chin. She put Ryo-ohki on her head and went into the kitchen. She rooted for a while, before producing a few carrots. She sat back on the sofa and fed the carrots into the cabbit, who was in turn doing her best impression of a vegatable shredder. She ate the carrots as fast as Sasami could feed them to her. Sasami's eyes started to close as she gazed at the little carrot-eating machine. Sasami fell asleep, and Ryo-ohki curled up in her lap. Tenchi came in from outside, looking a little dirty, and with Aeka in tow. "...and I was just wondering, that's all," finished Aeka. Tenchi just nodded, and took off his slippers. He glanced into the living room to see Sasami sleeping on the couch, and the resident cabbit sleeping in her lap. Tenchi smiled. It was a cute scene, and Tenchi couldn't resist. He took one of his dad's cameras from a table where it had been carelessly left. He checked the register window, and upon seeing that enough "Fujifilm" was left, he pointed and clicked. Aeka looked at him questioningly. Tenchi saw that Aeka was staring at him, and he scratched the back of his head. "Well....I....I just thought...I mean, well..I couldn't resist, it was just...I don't know, I just thought..I thought it'd make a nice picture," he stammered. Aeka smiled and watched as Tenchi sighed with relief. She stood there as he went off for the onsen. Once he was out of sight, she gave a questioning glance in Sasami's direction, and frowned with thought. she finalized, and decided to give it no further thought. Such thoughts would corrupt her vision of Tenchi. Sasami woke up at about 10:30. She sat up and yawned. Noticing Ryo-ohki in her lap, Sasami made sure to get up more slowly. Ryo-ohki woke up. "Myaa?" "Oh! Sorry to wake you, Ryo-ohki." "Miya myaa." The cabbit hopped up to Sasami's shoulder, then atop her head. Sasami went into the kitchen to get a head start on the next meal. It would take a while to prepare the hatchou, anyway. Tenchi left the bath, his hair still a bit wet. He came into the living room to see that Sasami wasn't there. But, he could hear her working in the kitchen. Tenchi decided to step in. There wasn't anything to do anyway. He knew nothing interesting would be on the TV, and if he went anywhere else, it was likely he'd be found by Ryoko and/ or Aeka. Wasyuu had been stragely absent. It wasn't unusual for her to spend a lot of time in the lab, but usually she'd poke her head up from time to time to eat. Tenchi thought about what would happen if he ran into any of the women. Sasami didn't notice Tenchi as he stepped into the kitchen. He walked up behind her, and put his hands over her eyes. "Guess who?" "Oh! Hi, Tenchi!" she giggled. "Hey, it all looks good, Sasami." "Thanks, Tenchi. Sorry, I couldn't make the Kyoto. We're out of a few of the ingredients." "It's all right. Everything you make is delicious anyway, so it's not a big deal." Sasami blushed. "Thank you." Tenchi smiled. He petted Ryo-ohki, who was still on Sasami's head. Ryo-ohki miyaa'ed happily. Sasami giggled. "She's in such a good mood 'cause I gave her a lot of carrots." "Ohh, is *that* it?" "Myaa! Miya myaa meow!" "Oh, don't worry, we don't mean it. Right, Tenchi?" Tenchi shook his head. "Right." Tenchi brightened for a moment, remembering something. "Oh, and Sasami?" "Yeah?" "Tomorrow IS your birthday, right?" "Yup!" "Okay. Just making sure. I overheard it from your sister just before she and Ryoko got into a fight." Tenchi didn't want to tell her that Aeka and Ryoko were fighting because Ryoko thought she had a better gift than Aeka. Sasami wouldn't like it if she knew Aeka and Ryoko fought because of her. "So, watcha getting me?" Sasami piped. "Oh, come on. Do you really think I'm going to just tell you? I'm not going to make it so easy. Besides, what kind of a person would I be if I went and told you that? And don't bother badgering Mihoshi, we haven't told her a thing, either." Sasami pouted, but still smiled. Getting Mihoshi to let something slip had been the plan. She turned and resumed preparing the food. Nothing to it right now, just start boiling the water, and let the over preheat. Of course, she still had some chopping to do. "Anything I can do to help?" questioned Tenchi. "Sure! Think you can chop the vegetables?" said Sasami, gesturing to the carrots. "I think so." Tenchi took the knife and stood at the cutting board. As he chopped, he let his mind wander on the events set up for Sasami's birthday. *CRKK* "YOW!" Tenchi put his maimed finger in his mouth. "That really smarts," he said. "Oh! Are you okay, Tenchi?" Sasami turned away from other preparations. "You should be careful. Chopping can be dangerous!" "I'm okay. Just need to bandage it." "Well, okay. Maybe you should see Wasyuu about it?" Tenchi sweatdropped. "Uh...well, I guess I could.." "What's wrong?" "N-nothing, nothing at all! I'm just wondering what kind of cure Wasyuu's going to use. I hope it doesn't do anything strange." "Oh, you know Wasyuu would never hurt you..on purpose." "I suppose you're right. Okay, be back in a minute." Tenchi went to the door of Wasyuu's subspace lab. He found it locked. Tenchi took a breath, and knocked quietly. Wasyuu's face showed up in the window of the door. "Hey, Tenchi. Come to be my guenia pig?" "Uh, n-not really, Wasyuu-dono." "A-HEM." "Wasyuu-chan." "Okay, then. What do you need?" Tenchi presented his finger, which promptly bled down his hand. "Waugh!" he took a cloth out of his pocket and wrapped it up. "Yeah, come in. It won't be more than a second." A click resounded from the door, and Tenchi pressed it open. As he came in, he said to himself, "Since when did Wasyuu use a normal lock?" "I heard that," she called from nearby. "That's just a sound effect. Of course I don't use normal locks." "Oh. Sorry, um, so what do I need to do?" Wasyuu typed furiously for a moment, and a small device, about the size of a shoebox (size 9 1/2) popped up. It had the image of a crab on it. "Put your hand underneath it," instructed Wasyuu. Tenchi did as he was told. The rag around his finger dissolved promptly. "Hey! I only have two of those!" "Sorry, I'll make you another. Why didn't you just ask?" "Uh, no reason." Tenchi watched as the deep cut on his finger sealed up with new flesh that was a lighter color than the rest of his finger. "So, Wasyuu. Are we still going through with Sasami's birthday party?" "Of course! And yes, before you ask, everything is set and ready to go. Just do your part." "Oh yeah, big part. I'm sure she wants to go around with me all day when she could be doing fun stuff." A statue of a crab, about one foot square, fell onto Tenchi's skull with a resounding BAMM! "Oww! What'd you do that for?!" "You know, she does like you. She has a crush on you, ya know." Tenchi's eyes widened. "Really?" Wasyuu sighed. "Please don't tell me you're really that thick, Tenchi." "Hey, come on. Give me a break!" "Anyway, whether you knew it or not, she would very much like to spend the day in your company. I think any of the women would." "Well..." "So, you can leave now. I'm finished." "Arigatto, Wasyuu-chan." "Don't mention it. Now scat! She's probably wondering if you are going to finish chopping up the carrots, so go!" "Sure...wait, how did YOU know what I was doing?" "Ah-heh-heh...umm...never mind that." she pressed a button on her holotop, and he was in the living room. Tenchi looked around quickly, momentarily startled, but then sighed. He then marched into the kitchen to finish chopping up the carrots. "Oh, hey Tenchi! I decided I'd finish up for you. I didn't want you to get hurt again." Tenchi hung his head in shame. "I'm sorry, Sasami." "Don't be sorry, it's not a big deal, really!" Tenchi sat on the counter, adjacent to the cutting board. "So, what do you usually do for your birthday on Jurai?" "Well...I'm sure it's not any different from what you'd do here, Tenchi." "Aww, come on. You can tell me! I'm not going to be sad if we can't give you as great a party as you'd have on Jurai." "That's just it, though. I never had that much in the way of a birthday, before. I mean, gifts and all, but my daddy was too busy to be able to have a party, and so were my mommy and auntie Funaho." "Wow, really?" Sasami nodded. "I think, just as long as you guys are around, I'll be happy. You don't have to buy me anything." "Well...I don't know what to say, Sasami. But I can tell you this much, we're not going to just leave it at that. We'll do something for your birthday." Sasami hugged Tenchi. "Thank you, Tenchi. I guess it'll be my first real birthday.." "Don't thank me, I should be thanking you for everything you've done for us. Why, if it weren't for you, we'd starve!" Sasami giggled. "Oh, that's not true. Your father is a decent cook! And Wasyuu can at least use her science to make stuff.." Tenchi kneeled down to her level, and looked her in the eye. "C'mon, Sasami. You do too much for us. I'm sure they *could* do some cooking, but it just wouldn't be the same without you. And besides...Wasyuu's last concoction didn't even *look* edible, and dad's last meal that he cooked was instant ramen!" Tenchi put an arm around her and pulled her into a hug. "I'm just happy that you're here for us, Sasami. So please, just accept what we're doing for you, just this once." Sasami's heart fluttered at him hugging her, and she blushed. "Okay." she finalized, and didn't trust herself to say any more. Tenchi stood up with a parting smile, and he patted her on the shoulder once before leaving the kitchen. Sasami watched him go, and once he was out of sight, she leaned back against the wall and sighed happily. she thought. Sasami turned and tended to the meal. She could now start making the actual food. But something nagged at her from the back of her head, and she couldn't place what it was trying to say. She stopped for a moment, as if listening to something she couldn't hear. But nothing presented itself, so Sasami resumed preparations. About two hours later, everything was ready, and all the food was set. Sasami set the table, and everyone came in and ate in the usual manner. But for some reason, they didn't say much. Aeka and Ryoko weren't fighting, either. They just kept looking at everyone else at the table. Tenchi caught Sasami's eye and threw her a wink. She blushed. Aeka saw this, but silently fumed. Ryoko didn't really notice anything, she just kept eating. No one else saw it, and if they had, probably they just would've passed it on as nothing. After the meal was over, everyone complemented her as usual, and left. Sasami stood there for a few moments, contemplating something less particular. She had overheard from Wasyuu that Ryoko couldn't really taste anything, so were her claims unabased, or did she really know what it tasted like? Tenchi came back into the kitchen and helped Sasami clean up. He beamed at her one more time before leaving. Sasami couldn't help but blush. She sighed and finished putting away the now-clean dishes. The sun came through the nearby window and struck a glass, sending brilliant colors about the room. Sasami stared at the rainbow of light as she zoned out. Ryo-ohki startled her out of it by nuzzling her cheek. She giggled, and then thought of her other pet, the Kirplaxian Norbek. Sasami was somewhat saddened when she thought of the little bushy-tailed creature that had been there when she first met Tenchi. But of course, it stayed on the Ryu-oh, and was subsequently killed. Ryo-ohki was here, though, so she wasn't really sad at all. But in a way, she'd miss it. But as Sasami thought of it, she remembered when Tenchi called it cute. At first, she imagined it was she Tenchi was calling cute. Sasami was startled from yet another reverie by a stern, commanding voice. "Sasami," came Aeka's voice from behind. Sasami came about. "Oh, hi, Ae-" "Sasami, stay away from him." "Huh? What are you talking about?" "YOU KNOW QUITE WELL WHAT I'M TALKING ABOUT!" Aeka composed herself. "A-hem...Stay away from Tenchi." "But..I'm not even trying!" "YES, I CAN SEE THAT!" "No, I mean, he's just being nice to me, it's nothing, really!" "I don't believe you. Tenchi isn't like that. And besides, even if he is, you shouldn't say anything back. Now, you WILL obey, because I am your older sister. Nothing more will be said of this, unless you do anything." Every sentence she said was punctuated with a "But.." from Sasami. However, Aeka walked out of the room before Sasami could get a word in edgewise. Sasami leaned on the table and put held her head in her hands. she thought. Tenchi had been coming back in through the door when he heard the exchange. At first, he had been stupefied with the sheer idiocy of the argument, and stunned by his subconscious actions. Then he had been filled with rancor at Aeka's words. So? So if he HAD been favoring Sasami? That was HIS choice, and it was not to be questioned! he thought. thought Tenchi. He walked up behind Sasami quietly. Tenchi placed a hand on her shoulder. Sasami flinched, and turned to see Tenchi standing there, looking into her with his compassionate brown eyes. "Sasami, what's wrong?" he asked, carefully remaining neutral. "Oh..It's nothing, Tenchi.." she sniffed. Tenchi kneeled next to her and encircled her in his arm. Sasami blushed, but tried to hide it. Tenchi saw, but for her pride, he prevented himself from saying anything. "I have an idea. Why don't you just go take a nap. I'll take things over from here." "N-no, I should..." "Now, Sasami, just go. You look like you could use a nap anyway." Sasami reluctantly gave in, and she proceeded for her room. Aeka saw her on the way, and glared at her. Sasami looked away. Once she got into her room, Sasami went right to her bed. Suddenly, she found that she was indeed very tired. She collapsed onto her futon, and fell asleep. If one were to be in the room, they might have seen the blue- hued aura of Tsunami appear. She kissed Sasami on the forehead, and then laid down into her. As Tsunami incorporated herself into Sasami, a glow filled the room. Once the glow subsided, Sasami was there, only now she filled out her futon. Sasami dreampt. "Sasami..." called a gentle voice. As she opened her eyes, Sasami could see Tsunami in front of her. "Sasami, you have finally completed what is destined." "Huh?" "You have earned Tenchi's love." Sasami's eyes widened in shock. "Really?!" Tsunami nodded. "Yes. And now, the Avatar can fulfill his destiny of the throne." "But why not Aeka? If it were just the throne, then.." "You may as well ask 'why not Ryoko?' You see, if Tenchi had chosen one of them, then their bickering would continue. And thusly, he would never become emperor, and would remain on Earth. One would accuse him of being with the other. There would be no peace. And as for the royalty, your father would be very displeased to see that Aeka had married Tenchi, and would try with all his might to kill him. If Tenchi marries you, it's not a very big deal, because you're second in line for the throne. Your offspring is destined to rule Jurai. As will Tenchi and you, for Aeka is destined for other matters. But because of what is to come, I cannot tell you of her future. As for what I have already said, you are not to say a word of this." Sasami swallowed and nodded. "Wow.." she said after a while. "Yes.. It's quite a matter, isn't it? But now, it is time for you to awaken and face your future. Farewell." Sasami awoke with a start. She looked around for a moment to see where she was. Indeed, it was her room, and the warmth of the futon reminded her that she was in bed. she thought. Sasami stood up for a moment and then realized how cold it was outside of her futon. She was just about to slide the door open when she noticed something. First, the door was a lot smaller than she'd remembered. Second, the way she was walking was very different from the way she used to walk. And third, she also noticed that she was naked. Sasami hurriedly grabbed the futon. Miraculously, Aeka, who had obviously been drinking last night, didn't wake up. Seeing that she didn't have much choice for garb, Sasami searched the room. It was then she noticed the clothes hamper, which held the laundry she'd finished a couple of days ago, and forgotten to put back where it belonged. The first thing that jumped out at her was one of Tenchi's shrine outfits. It was very loose-looking, and fit well enough. Sasami realized that she was still uncomfortably cold, due to the lack of undergarments that still fit her. But she had to get breakfast done, and that was that. Sasami slid the door open quietly and padded down the hall. "SUR...PRISE?" came a cry from the living room. Tenchi, Ryoko, Wasyuu, Mihoshi, Katsuhito and Nobuyuki were all there, ready to celebrate Sasami's birthday. But they seemed somewhat surprised themselves. "Tsu-Tsunami?" stammered Tenchi. "Umm...No, I'm not Tsunami," said Sasami. Wasyuu gasped. "So you've finally assimilated! But why?" "Uh, I really don't know. Tsunami is with me, but only like she used to be. I mean, it's not like both of us are right here. She is just dormant. So I can't answer that.." Sasami knew perfectly well why she had been assimilated, but didn't want to discuss it so openly. "My, what a coincidence. Assimilation on your birthday, I wonder if it has anything to do with the matter..." said Katsuhito, his expression stoic as always. "Wow! Gee, Ryoko, I guess you've got more competition," said Nobuyuki, eyeing Sasami. "Hey...naw, I don't think so. Right, Tenchi?" said Ryoko, phasing next to Tenchi and glomping onto him. "Uhh...." he stuttered. "Well, um, who wants breakfast?" said Sasami, trying her best to change the subject. She just didn't feel that an atmosphere of comfort radiated from talking about oneself. "I do!" called Mihoshi. But before Sasami could safely get into the kitchen and away from those prying eyes, Aeka came down the stairs. Sasami saw her and stopped. Aeka at first lazily looked about the room. Then her eyes met with Sasami's, and changed into a cold glare. Sasami smiled and said, "Ohayo, Aeka." "Sasami. I would like to have a talk with you. In private." Aeka led Sasami back to their room, as everyone else just looked on in stunned silence. Tenchi looked about at the situation. "Well, I guess in all the fuss, we forgot it was her birthday. C'mon, Wasyuu, let's go and make breakfast. And everyone, I guess there's going to be some gifts that'll need returning, given the situation." Tenchi and Wasyuu retreated to the kitchen to begin preparing on breakfast while Mihoshi sat at the table, Katsuhito began to gather up presents that wouldn't be needed (i.e., clothes), and Ryoko just went to her beam. Nobuyuki announced, "I'm taking some of these gifts back, if anyone wants to come along and get new ones." Katsuhito offered for Nobuyuki to get new clothes for Sasami. said Nobuyuki, who planned to leer at the lingerie. He set off out the door and drove away. Meanwhile, upstairs, Aeka was having a little "talk" with her sister. "Sasami, do you remember what I have told you?" "Yes, Aeka. But you know what? You can just forget it. I don't have to answer to you." Aeka fumed. "I am still your older sister, and I have laid claims onto Tenchi. And as Juraian by-laws go, I will have him as my husband." "This isn't Jurai, Aeka, and besides, Tenchi has to agree to that." "Hmph! We shall see, Sasami. We shall see." with that, Aeka left the room in a huff. Sasami collected herself and left for the kitchen. But before she got out of the room, Ryo-ohki awoke. "Myaa?" came a questioning cabbit. "Oh, so you're awake, Ryo-ohki!" said Sasami. "Miya...? Myaa miya meow?" "Yes, yes, it's me, Sasami! Want to go make some breakfast?" "Miya!" Ryo-ohki hopped up to Sasami's shoulder, and sniffed her for a moment. She then licked her. Sasami giggled. As soon as she left the room, Sasami could smell food cooking. She hurried to the kitchen to see Tenchi and Wasyuu doing their best to make breakfast. Wasyuu was typing on her holo-top, and alternately taking a spoon from a pot and tasting it. She tasted it once more, and then typed furiously. She tasted it again, and commented, "Needs more hydrogen..." "Hey you guys!" Sasami exclaimed. Tenchi jumped about three feet. "Sasami! Aww, this was supposed to be a surprise!" "Well, that's sweet of you. Thanks.." Tenchi laughed nervously and scratched the back of his head. Wasyuu ignored her and typed quicker. A hole opened nearby and she took a spice shaker from it. Wasyuu shook a blue-tinted spice over the miso she was cooking, and threw the container over her shoulder. A hole opened up and caught it before it got far. Sasami walked over to the vegetables Tenchi was chopping and helped him out. "Come on, now, we're doing this for your birthday. Let us handle it," he said, somewhat annoyed. Sasami smiled at him, and gave him a light peck on the cheek before leaving. Tenchi blushed brightly and stopped chopping for a while. Wasyuu looked over at him for a moment, and smiled. she thought. Sasami sat down on the couch. She just couldn't seem to get rid of the smile that was plastered on her face. Ryo-ohki miaa'ed happily and nuzzled Sasami some more. Mihoshi came in from down the hall and sat next to Sasami. "Hello, who are you?" she asked. Sasami facefaulted. "Umm, it's me, Sasami." "No you're not, Sasami's a little girl." "No, Tsunami merged with me, I'm not little anymore." Mihoshi seemed satisfied with this and said no more. Sasami rolled her eyes. Tenchi came in from the kitchen and stood behind Sasami. He remained totally quiet so she wouldn't notice. Sasami just sat there watching TV, and petting Ryo-ohki. A smile crept onto Tenchi's face as he padded up behind her. "Ohayo, Sasami!" he yelled as he put his arms around her from behind. Sasami jumped about four feet. "Oh! Tenchi!" "Happy Birthday. I guess in all the excitement, we forgot it was your birthday," he commented. Sasami looked down at the surprised cabbit in her lap and blushed. Ryo-ohki miyaa'ed knowingly. Sasami hadn't expected on being surprised like that. Usually she was too small to be easily grabbed from behind while sitting on the couch. But this, she didn't mind at all. Tenchi stopped and realized how bold he was being. But he just shrugged it off as giving her special attention for her birthday. Of course, only Wasyuu, who had been secretly watching from the kitchen, realized that this wasn't just special birthday treatment. She smiled brightly. Then she shifted to less linear thoughts. Ryoko floated lazily through the nearest wall. Pestering Aeka wasn't as exciting as it usually was. Lately she seemed a bit easier to get unnerved. No challenge at all, really. Then she noticed Tenchi hugging the new Sasami. Her mouth dropped open. She quickly dashed back into the wall. she repeated over and over, suppressing the tears that threatened at her eyelids. Quickly, she popped back through the wall to see them still hugging. Ryoko noticed that her eyes were starting to sting. She shook her head and blinked rapidly. "Hey, Tenchi!" she said in as cheerful a tone as she could manage. "Oh! Hi, Ryoko," he said, seemingly startled. This seemed to worsen her mood, as she realized he had been distracted. "Hi, Ryoko!" came the only half-familiar voice of Sasami. "Hi, Sasami," she said, much less cheery. Aeka came down the stairs then. Her eyes were somewhat puffy, as if she had just been crying. "Ohayo, Ten-chan." Tenchi blinked. he thought. Aeka walked purposefully right up to him and wrapped an arm around him. "O-o-ohayo, Aeka..." he thought again. Aeka pecked him on the cheek. Ryoko was just stunned into staring. Sasami turned around and glared at her. Tenchi blushed brightly, and tried to pull away. Aeka put her hand on his thigh and caressed it. "Uhh..I..I think Jiichan's calling me.." he said, and renewed his efforts to struggle free. Reluctantly, Aeka let him go. Tenchi walked away quickly, sometimes throwing unnerved glances over his shoulder. Aeka smiled smugly and looked at Sasami. "Well, I think I can give him the attention he deserves. And maybe you won't be so desirable, at least not as much as you think, little girl." Aeka was surprised monumentally as a strong slap hit her on her right cheek. She turned and glared angrily into the golden eyes of Ryoko. Ryoko looked at her with utter contempt. "I don't know who the hell you think you are," she said icily. "But even I know that he was only doing that on cause of Sasami's birthday. Stay away, and let her have her day, you stuck up bitch." Aeka glared. "You have absolutely no right to get into the matter between Sasami and I. It is between Juraian royalty, and not to be toyed with." Sasami stared at Aeka and Ryoko. They fought all the time, but now it was serious. Usually, it wasn't more than a petty squabble, but now there was actual hatred in their eyes. And it scared her. Sasami stood up and tried to put herself between the two women. When she was little, no one would listen to her because she just wasn't that intimidating. But now, well, now they'd damn well better. Something had to give. "You two STOP!" she yelled. Ryoko backed away, but Aeka swung her hand at her sharply. Aeka found that she couldn't quite get her hand all the way there. Ryoko had her by the wrist. "THAT was uncalled for," was all she would say. Ryoko pulled Aeka away from Sasami. Sasami wouldn't stand for that. "No! You two stop it NOW!" she screamed. A bright flash ensued, and a forcefield was now between Aeka and Ryoko. They just stared, puzzled, as did Sasami. Sasami walked towards the forcefield with her hand pressed against it. She pushed it across the room with Aeka behind it, fighting to get free the whole time. She pushed it until Aeka was trapped in a corner. Her eyes never left Aeka's. Wordlessly, she marched off to find Tenchi, leaving both of the women in a stupor. Ryoko started to gloat, but then a similar forcefield appeared around her. She looked at it for a moment, as if denying its existence. But she also found it impossible to phase through. Aeka laughed out loud at her. Ryoko spoke up. "You have no room to talk, Aeka, if you haven't noticed." Aeka just glared, and sat down on the wood floor. Normally, her tiara allowed her to absorb Jurai power, but this was a Light Hawk Wing, and she found it impossible to tamper with. Ryoko didn't make any other attempts to get free, because she realized what she'd done. Ryoko realized that by fighting, they'd almost ruined her birthday. Aeka didn't seem to care. She seemed fixated on the sheer fact that now Sasami was after Tenchi. And she seemed to be making progress. Ryoko knew that what she'd seen wasn't just Sasami enjoying the benefits of her birthday. But for some reason, she couldn't get mad at her. Knowing that Tenchi was going to be with another woman was very trying. But after a few minutes, she realized she was glad the woman was Sasami. she thought. Sasami found Tenchi outside near the fields, looking out over the carrots. "Tenchi?" she said tentatively. He started at her presence, turning about. He was frowning. "Sasami?" he questioned. "Yes?" "What's wrong with Aeka?" "Umm.." Sasami's face got somewhat red. "If you don't want to tell me, you don't have to." "Okay, I think I'd rather not." "That's fine. She's just acting, well, weird, that's all." Sasami looked down. "Uh, well..." "Um..I think you should come back into the living room for a minute," she said, regretting the words as soon as they had left her mouth. "Sure." Sasami led him back into the living room to see Aeka and Ryoko blocked off into separate areas. "What's this all about?" he asked, somewhat perturbed. "Well.." started Ryoko. "Aeka was being a bitch." "I was not! Ryoko was putting her nose in my business!" "Quiet! Tell me what happened, and why you two are now locked up?" "I honestly don't know, Ten-chan." thought Tenchi. "You know, damn it. You know why," said Ryoko. Sasami spoke up. "They were fighting again, but this time, it was going too far." "She was trying to slap Sasami!" yelled Ryoko. "I was NOT!!" screamed Aeka defiantly. "Shut UP! Both of you, STOP IT!" yelled Tenchi. Ryoko and Aeka were startled into silence. "Now, you two are going to cut it out, right NOW! This is Sasami's birthday, and you two are about to totally ruin it for her!" He turned to Sasami. "Um, how did you lock them up?" "Well, I'm not sure. But I think it's something to do with Tsunami." "Well, go ahead and let them go. As for us, let's go ahead for a walk. They need some time to think about what they've done," he said, looking in their direction. Sasami glanced at them, and the fields dropped. Tenchi walked to the door and held it open for her. Sasami bowed and walked through. Aeka glared at Sasami as she left the house with Tenchi. Then she fixated her gaze on Ryoko. She turned and went back to her room. Sasami and Tenchi walked down the path into the forest. Tenchi didn't really say where they were going, but he held her hand as they walked. Sasami put her mind off of what had happened back at the house, and fixed her mind on the here and now. The forest was quite alive, right now. Birds were chirping, the sun was shining, and various insects made a chorus of noise. They walked for some time in silence, until they came to a clearing. Tenchi realized where they were, and cursed himself. Now he was totally clueless as to what should be done. "Umm..." Sasami smiled at him. Her smile made him warmer, and he sweated. But he beamed back at her, and thought that he enjoyed this unpleasant warmth. They just stood there, listening to the forest, and watching what they could see. No one was around, and Tenchi realized where he was. This was the clearing where his dad had said he'd first met Achika. Tenchi felt a hand cup his chin, and he turned to Sasami. She leaned forward into a kiss, and Tenchi, too startled to do otherwise, reciprocated. Tenchi and Sasami kissed for a while, blushing more than ever before, but loving every minute of it. Tenchi opened his mouth as they kissed, and Sasami gasped. She opened her mouth and they kissed even more deeply for a while. They embraced each other and stood there, oblivious to everything else going on. Tenchi was so blissfully caught up in his actions that he didn't even flinch as Katsuhito came up the path. He saw Tenchi and Sasami, and turned on his heel as if he had just realized other engagements. Maybe now wasn't the best time to come and tell them the gifts were ready, anyway. But Katsuhito was glad to see that Tenchi was happy. Maybe now that he was more at rest, Tenchi would be more attentive. But right now, attention was what Tenchi lacked as he was filled with warmth and bliss, locked in a passionate kiss with Sasami. After what seemed like hours, but was nearly half an hour, they parted. Tenchi gazed into her pink eyes, looking into them as if they were twin oceans with infinite depth. Sasami stared at him blissfully, and they resumed kissing again and again, for quite a while. About an hour later, He and Sasami walked back down the path to the house, hand in hand, side by side. Nobuyuki hid behind a tree, and when the moment was right, he leapt out and snapped a picture. Tenchi and Sasami looked at Nobuyuki with some apprehension, but were too blissful to care, really. Tenchi actually laughed. Nobuyuki laughed along with him, and handed Sasami the picture. "Hey, I want to talk to Tenchi alone for a minute, if that's all right." "Sure." Nobuyuki led Tenchi into the library. Once they were there, he looked around as if trying to see if someone were spying on them. He then grabbed a book off the shelf labeled, "War and Peace," and opened it up. A small jewel box presented itself, and Nobuyuki popped it open. A beautifully decorated ring, with vine-like tendrils and a finely cut ruby sat in the middle, with a layer of dust on it. "I haven't...haven't looked at this since..since that day..." said Nobuyuki in a faraway voice. Tenchi felt a lump form in his throat. He got dust in his eye, too. He blinked quickly, and put a hand on his dad's shoulder. "Now Tenchi.." he started. "It looked to me back there like you and Sasami were a bit friendly. If...if you ever decided that you need a ring...could I count on you to give her this?" "Of course!" said Tenchi without even the slightest hint of hesitation. Nobuyuki put the ring in Tenchi's hand and clasped it for a minute. "Thank you," was all he said before retreating quickly away. Tenchi watched him go, and looked at the ring for a moment. he thought. Sighing, he put the ring in his pocket. Tenchi met up with Sasami back in the living room. Sasami saw him, and lit up instantly. She embraced him in a tender hug, and they stood there for a moment. Katsuhito walked up behind Tenchi and waited for a moment. After they parted, he tapped Tenchi on the shoulder. "Hey, you two, the gifts are ready," he said once Tenchi turned around. Tenchi laughed nervously and scratched the back of his head. The gift-giving had finished after a short while, Aeka being noticeably absent from the celebration. Then a short dinner was served, and everyone watched some TV, trying not to pressure Sasami too much about her new form. Truly, Sasami didn't find it too strange. After a little while, she'd gotten accustomed to the changes. Except for one change, and that was the new feelings she'd had when Tenchi had been kissing her. It was a stirring sensation, one that made her stomach flutter. But she liked it, even though she couldn't explain it. Aeka, had she not been in a fit of jealousy, probably could have helped her sister get to understand her new body. The program didn't last long, and everyone turned in earlier than normal. Ryoko took a bottle of sake and retreated to the shadows. In reality, she hadn't fully accepted her fate, yet, and wanted to drown her sorrows in alcohol. But Aeka wouldn't accept it, she knew that, and vowed to help Sasami with whatever would happen. "Um, Tenchi?" asked Sasami. "Yeah?" he said. They sat on the couch in front of the TV, with no one around. "I don't think I can sleep in my room tonight. Is that room on the end of the hall open?" "Yeah, but there's no bed in it." "Guess I'll have to see if I can get my futon away from Aeka." Tenchi left for his room, and Sasami was able to get her futon, as Aeka was asleep. As soon as she got herself ready for bed, Sasami realized something. She went down the hall to Tenchi's room. She quietly rapped on the door. "Tenchi?" "Yeah?" "Can I come in?" "Sure, go ahead." Sasami slid the door open. "I forgot to say good night to you." Tenchi stood up and Sasami came over to him. They kissed again, and then Sasami parted and said, "Oyasume." "Oyasume nasai," replied Tenchi. Sasami was about to leave the room, but she turned back to Tenchi. Tenchi turned around to see her, and she kissed him again. They kissed deeply for a while. Sasami found felt...strange. She couldn't quite place it. She knew she wanted Tenchi, but here he was, and it didn't seem to be enough. Just when she was about to give up, Sasami figured it out. Slowly, she motioned their kiss over to the bed. Tenchi noticed this, and parted for a moment. "Um, Sasami?" She backed up for a moment. "Oh...I guess I should get back to bed." "Well..." Tenchi seemed unable to continue, and Sasami couldn't leave at that. They kissed some more, and again, she subconsciously motioned towards the bed. Tenchi stopped again. "Are...are you sure about this, Sasami?" he asked. "W-well...I...I..." "If you want to, we can...but only if you want to..." They were both blushing madly, unable to contain themselves. "Tenchi, I...I want you. I don't know why, but..." "Are you sure?" "Y-yes..." she said unsteadily. She contemplated this for a moment, and then finalized "Yes, yes I do." They resumed kissing again, only this time Tenchi was obviously nervous. He couldn't quite bring himself to start things, because he wasn't sure where to begin. Sasami wasn't sure, either, but counted on Tenchi to initiate it. Tenchi's mind raced as they kissed. He decided they should sit on the bed, and he pulled her down towards it. Sasami's heart was racing as she realized just what was going to happen. Her desire took over her thoughts, and she began to push up Tenchi's shirt. Tenchi felt a lot better as he noticed that she knew what she was doing, or so he thought. Sasami leaned against him, and this motion brought them flat onto the bed. Tenchi felt the robes she was wearing, and realized she was still wearing his shrine robes. He slowly worked the buttons on it as they kissed. Sasami parted the kiss long enough for her to get the shirt he was wearing off of him. She realized that he was finding his way with her clothes, too, so at least she didn't have to worry about that. But it wasn't long before she remembered that she still hadn't put on any undergarments. Tenchi was equally surprised when he was greeted with her bare chest. His nose bled uncontrollably, and he wiped at it. Sasami kissed him, and reached down to untie his cord belt. Tenchi's excitement grew, and he allowed himself to be lost in it. Sasami finished pushing his pants off, and seemed flustered at the prospect of going any further. Tenchi tried to remember some of the things that his father had told him, but he failed to think of much, as he had tried to shrug off the hentai's ramblings. He did remember one thing, though. He began to suckle gently on her breast. Sasami felt shockwaves of sensations shooting up her spine, and she moaned, finding herself unable to stop. Tenchi noticed that she liked this, and bit ever so lightly, putting his tongue into play, trying to evoke the most sensation possible. Sasami, now more emboldened, worked his boxers off. It surprised her when his excited manhood touched her thigh. Tenchi, realized what had happened, and blushed brightly. But in response, he slowly slid the shrine pants she was wearing off. Soon, they were both totally naked. Sasami's head was tilted back, and she was crooning at the attention Tenchi was giving her breast. Her nipples hardened. Sasami embraced him, and they rolled over until Sasami was on her back. Tenchi's member touched the entrance to her sex, and he grew more excited. Sasami moaned at the feeling of his member, and blushed. She never knew really how all of this took place, but so far it was the best thing she'd ever felt. Sasami spread her legs, becoming more receptive to Tenchi. he thought. Slowly, he pressed forward, allowing his member to slide slowly into her. His mouth left her breast and he kissed her. Sasami gasped as he slid in, until he reached her hymen. Tenchi pressed forwards, until he tore her, and she cried out. He stopped for a moment, and looked into her eyes. She nodded slightly, and he continued. Sasami's body shook as he pressed all the way in, until she realized he was in up to the hilt. Tenchi sighed as he began to slide out again. Sasami moaned again. Tenchi released his embrace on her, and put his hands on either side of her. He began to pump slowly, causing Sasami's breasts to sway, and her breathing to come in shallow gasps. "Ahh...Ohh......Ahh..ahh...Tenchi..." she gasped. He continued to thrust, now moving slightly faster. Sasami cried out louder. "Ahh! Tenchi! Ohh...yes..." Sasami looked into her lover's eyes, and pulled him into a kiss, muffling her next few cries of utter pleasure, evoked from their passion. Tenchi moved faster, making the bed shake. Sasami's love canal gripped him on every entry, spurning greater speed. A lock of hair stuck to her forehead by sweat, Sasami moaned some more. "Ahh! Ahh! Ahh! Ohh! Mmm...Ohh..." her cries became louder, more urgent. As Tenchi moved faster and faster, she felt a strange feeling building up inside. It felt like a tightness, begging for release. And finally, as Tenchi pumped, the release washed over her. She climaxed, crying out louder than before. "Ohhhhh!!! Oh, TENNNCHI!..." Tenchi continued to thrust, even as these new feelings rocked through Sasami, causing her to shiver, but not from the cold. A short while later, as Sasami relished the emotions, and felt the tightness once again, Tenchi climaxed. "Uhnnn..." he moaned. Sasami felt him stream hot inside of her, and she climaxed again. "Ahh! Ohh...ohhh.....ohh.." Tenchi settled down and laid next to her as he slid out. They kissed again. "I love you, Sasami," he said, just before pulling the covers over them, and allowing them to sleep. Aeka sat in the other room. Sasami's cries of passion had awaken her, and she cried miserably, listening, unable to block out the noises coming from Tenchi's room. "Why? Why? Why?" she asked continually. Aeka cried herself to sleep, after about two hours. Ryoko could hear, too. She cried, but not as much. she thought. Nonetheless, she, too, cried herself to sleep. About everyone else in the house heard it, too. But they knew better than to check it out. Nobuyuki just smiled on hearing it, and went back to sleep. Mihoshi sat up in bed, confused. But she shrugged and laid back. Wasyuu couldn't hear it in her lab, but she knew it happened by the misery being poured through her link with Ryoko. She sighed, and tried to say something comforting to her, but words and thoughts failed her. Katsuhito felt a disturbance, which he realized could be none other than Tsunami's power released as she climaxed. He shook his head. If that boy got her pregnant... The next morning, Tenchi awoke to see the blue-haired Sasami in his arms. No doubt the best wake-up call he'd had to date. Things weren't as hard as he thought, last night. Just somewhat awkward at points. Sasami woke up. She looked into his eyes, and they met with a kiss. "I suppose I should go make breakfast," she said slyly. "I don't know...do you need my help?" he responded in kind. She smiled and sat up. The sunlight accented her curves as she stretched. Just then, the door slid open. This startled both of them, as Katsuhito stood there. Sasami hurriedly grabbed the cover and pulled it over herself. Katsuhito ignored the scene in front of him, and commented, "Tenchi, you need to tend the fields." Tenchi looked over at his clock, only to realize that it had been knocked off the stand and broken. He looked at Katsuhito, but he wasn't there anymore. Sasami sat there, blushing. Tenchi reached over and shut the door. He stood up and got dressed, as did Sasami. They left his room. No sooner had they crossed the threshold when Nobuyuki ran up and crushed Tenchi in a hug. He patted him on the back a few times. "Well done! Now, you're a man! I'm proud of you, boy!" Tenchi blushed. "Daaad!!" Sasami blushed as well, but hid it better. Nobuyuki followed him around for a little while, ranting on about manhood, and his new responsibilities, and basically just giving Tenchi the worst day of his life. He thought he might blush himself to death. He felt embarrased *for* his father, not for himself. But soon enough, Nobuyuki realized he had to get to work, so he left Tenchi and Sasami thankfully alone. As soon as Nobuyuki was out of sight, Tenchi and Sasami shared a passionate kiss. *Click!* *WHRRRR* Tenchi blinked in the flash as his dad stood there waiting for the polaroid to develop. Nobuyuki shed tears that said what he couldn't possibly say in words. Finally, he wiped his face, and said:"You know, I keep all of these in a special album." Tenchi's eyes widened. "Just *how* many of those pictures do you have, dad?" Nobuyuki looked nervously between them. "Heh..gottago!" he ran as fast as he could, flanked by Sasami and Tenchi. But somehow, he escaped. "Damn," Tenchi commented, as he watched his dad run down to the car, and then go top speed. "My, how quickly he runs...and drives!" said Sasami, in almost perfect imitation of her sister's voice, causing Tenchi to convulse with laughter. Tenchi put his arm around Sasami, and turned to go back into the house as he gazed lovingly into her pink eyes. They were greeted no sooner by Ryoko. Her head was down, hiding her face. "Ah! Ryoko!" said a startled Tenchi. "I..It's not what you think!" Ryoko lifted her chin....and revealed her smiling face. "Yeah, right, Tenchi! Are you kidding? No one got any sleep last night, with the noise you two made!" she actually laughed. Tenchi's face turned bright red, as did Sasami's. "B-but... aren't you.." She sighed. "No. I decided to get over it. I mean, at least I can still be around you, right?" she said almost pleadingly. Tenchi nodded vigorously. "Yeah! By all means!" this was very much of a relief for Tenchi, who was secretly worried that all the other women would leave upon hearing the news. "Umm...where's Aeka?" he asked. "She...didn't take it as well. I think she might still be crying." Tenchi's face contorted in pain. Guilt washed over him as he knew the pain she must have felt. "I guess I should go say something to her." Ryoko and Sasami let him go, and they went into the kitchen to start making breakfast. Tenchi slid the door open quietly, whispering, "Aeka?" Aeka was in her futon, her back to him. He could hear wracking sobs, and saw the way she shivered. Slowly, he walked over and put a comforting arm around her. "Leave me alone," she said in a voice that was so cold it burned. He was about to, but something inside told him not to. "No," he said hesitatingly. Aeka turned over and sat up. Her face was a mess. Her makeup had run all down her face, her hair was screwed up, and her cheeks were sticky with dried tears. But by far the worst thing was the look in her eyes. He saw nothing but complete and utter contempt there. Nothing more. It scared him to see her like this. It was like some bad dream where things are turned totally backwards. Aeka wasn't Aeka anymore. She was some kind of...of monster. "Y...o...u..." she said in a voice that rattled his bones. Much to his surprise, Tenchi saw her power logs starting to form around him. But he just looked at her, keeping his face carefully neutral. "Aeka, I.." *KZZZZAAAAAAAKKKKKKKAAAAAAZZZZZZZZ!* Tenchi screamed in pain and fell to his knees as all the power Aeka could muster coursed through his veins in electrical form. With immense strength of will, Tenchi stood, the electricity still racing up and down his nervous system. His body convulsed uncontrollably. But still, he held his ground. Tears were in Aeka's eyes again, and they streaked down her cheeks as she kept the energy flowing. She watched him writhe in pain. Finally, she couldn't take it anymore. Aeka fell to her knees, sobbing loudly and pitifully. Tenchi fell to his knees, then landed on his face. He gritted his teeth until he felt enough pain had left for him to try standing up again. He realized his clothes and hair were smoking, and he could smell the sickly-sweet odor of charred flesh. Several scorched patches of flesh decorated his body. But he staggered to Aeka and put a comforting arm around her, trying his best for her sake not to cry out as his wounds reintroduced themselves. Aeka cried the hardest Tenchi had ever thought he'd heard someone cry. He tried to say something, anything, but only a rasping croak came out. He couldn't even touch her because of the sensitivity of his wounds. Just then, Sasami and Ryoko burst through the door to see the commotion. Sasami gasped and put a hand to her mouth. Ryoko's eyes widened, then filled with complete, utter, remorseless rancor. Her sword was in hand in a second, and she was ready to strike Aeka in another. Aeka sat up and prepared herself for the blade that would end her pain. But Tenchi stood up the best he could and got between them. "Get out of the way, Tenchi," said Ryoko icily. "Urgghhh...rghp...no...o..." he croaked. Aeka cried anew, when she realized the relief was not to come. Ryoko tried to sidestep him, but again and again he moved in the way. Ryoko had tears in her eyes as she backed off. Tenchi fell to the floor, completely worn from the pain. Physical and Mental. Sasami ran to his side, and winced at all the wounds she saw. She held her hands about a centimeter over him, and closed her eyes. A bright blue aura of ki consumed him, and as soon as the glow subsided, he was totally renewed, except for his scorched clothing. Sasami fell forward, breathing hard. Tenchi sat up, picking Sasami up with him. Tenchi just sat there, waiting, as Aeka cried. After a while, he didn't know how long, she stopped and looked up. Aeka feared what she would see in their eyes. Sasami's eyes were a mix of fear and confusion. Ryoko's eyes were complete hatred as before. Tenchi...Tenchi's eyes were filled with compassion, same as the day she'd realized she had loved him, back in that shed in the woods. "T-tenchi," she quavered. "I...I...I have no place here any longer. I have committed a serious crime against you, and against those I love. I'm afraid I must leave, as soon as possible." "No! No, don't leave! I don't hate you, Aeka!" his voice was almost desperate. "Tenchi! What are you doing?! She tried to kill you! I say letting her go is much too merciful for her, anyway!" said Ryoko. Tenchi ignored her as Aeka spoke. "I cannot. I shall be lucky if I'm not tried for treason in the royal courts." Tenchi took her hand and held her fast. "Aeka.." he said apprehensively. But she pulled away. "No. I must go, and there is nothing you can say or do that will make me stay. I have duties to get to." She stood up and walked away. When she noticed Tenchi coming for her, she ran. "Azaka! Kamidake!" she cried. "Yes ma'am!" two voices replied, and the wooden Juraian guardians blocked the hall with their forcefields. Tenchi was about to destroy them, but they disappeared in a green flash. He ran down the hall past them, but Aeka was nowhere to be seen. Aeka ran through Wasyuu's lab, trying to find the scientist. "Wasyuu!" she called. Aeka found the diminutive genius asleep at her holo- top. She grasped Wasyuu and shook her awake. "Wasyuu! I need Ryu-oh, now!" "Waah!" yelled Wasyuu, totally taken by surprise at this intrusion. "Huh? What?" "I said, get Ryu-oh online NOW!" "Umm, just go through that door, it's ready now. But remember, it's still young!" Wasyuu indicated a door hanging in midair. Aeka ran through without a second thought. Tenchi and the rest busted into Wasyuu's lab not a second after, and they ran up to Wasyuu. "Where's Aeka?!" "She went to Ryu-oh, why?" "She's trying to leave!" Wasyuu stared blankly for a moment. "Oh, okay. Is that all?" "What do you mean, 'Is that all?!'" "Well, she's not leaving if I don't want her to." Suddenly, a loud rumbling echoed through the lab. A monitor screen popped up, and showed the area above the lake. A rift opened, and the Ryu-oh's graceful form slid from within the darkness. "Huh?! How'd she do that?!" exclaimed Wasyuu. The view zoomed in to show Azaka and Kamidake holding the portal open for her. As soon as the Ryu-oh was free, they disappeared, summoned into the ship. Tenchi got outside just in time to see a star streak across the night sky. Tears blurred his vision as he watched her go. "Goodbye..Aeka," he said. Tenchi reflected on these events about three months later. "Manatsu no ebu...wasurenai..." he said slowly. The school wasn't rebuilt yet. So, as Autumn made itself known, there was nothing but chores to be done. Sasami came out to see Tenchi sitting on the porch, watching leaves fall. "Still remembering what happened over summer?" said Sasami, trying her best not to reopen old wounds. "Yeah...I still miss her. I just wish...that there was something I could've done..." "We all do, Tenchi. But there's nothing that could have been done." "But I ask myself over and over again if that is true. I keep feeling as if there was still something..." He and Sasami remained silent for a while, listening to the symphony of insects as evening settled in. "Tenchi." "Yes?" "I...I have something to tell you." "What's that?" "I'm pregnant." Tenchi stared at her blankly for a while. Sasami just looked at him. It became evident after a few minutes that he wasn't going to move. She reached out and touched him. "Tenchi?" He fell backwards, unconscious. Sasami sighed. She pressed a finger to his forehead, and he popped awake in a second. "Ugh...what happened? Ohh...so...so is a boy or a girl?" "Wasyuu says we're having a son." Tenchi smiled, tears touching the corners of his eyes. He blinked them away and hugged Sasami, kissing her. They sat kissing, only the stars watching from above provided a testament to their eternal love. =================================================================== Well, I finished the short serie. There is no way in hell that I am going to write a story about Sakuya, so yes, this is the last. But, good news for you NNFSC readers, I'm going to try and write the next chapter of my most neglected series. Thanks for reading!! E-mail:cubone41@yahoo.com URL:www.geocities.com/cubone41