I love this story and I was bored, so I desired to MST it. ----Clayton Overstreet Msters Clayton Overstreet Ryoko Masaki Tenchi Masaki Washu (In her adult form) Gene Starwind Aisha Clan-clan Washu: What am I doing here? Clayton: Between Ryoko and Tenchi making out in here and them doing the same in the fics, Aeka refused to come back, especially for one this long Ryoko: How long is it? Clayton: It's a four parter so it's like a hundred pages Gene: Do we get bathroom breaks? Clayton: Sure Aisha: How about food? Clayton: All you can eat Tenchi: This isn't a lemon is it? Clayton: No, I don't do those. No challenge in it Tenchi Muyo: Ryoko's Love Alpha! Chapter 1A: A Friendly Wager Gene: $50 says they make a bet By Long T. Tran 3/21/98 Disclaimer: I don't own these characters, AIC/Pioneer owns them. Clayton: Same goes for me and this MST Washu: So you don't own us? Clayton: Nope I don't intend to make money off this because I don't want to get a lawsuit. I'm too poor for that. But this is my story, so don't plagiarize! Tenchi: Does this count? Aisha: Nope, we leave it in tact with his name on it. Author's Notes: We are going retro a few years! This chapter will start a year or two before Yui's birth. Clayton: Who's Yui? Tenchi, Ryoko, and Washu: (Shrug) >From this chapter on, we will see as events unfold and gradually shape the time line that'll head the Tenchi cast into Ryoko's Return Pt.2 . IN other words, let's not worry about the year 2018, and just enjoy brand new series of stories. (A prequel series to Ryoko's Love Prologue.) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Washu: Uh oh, the story has flatlined It's another beautiful day at the Okayama countryside, after a hard day's work in the fields, Tenchi was on his way going up to his grandfather's shrine. Gene: Is that all you do? Tenchi: Basically Tired, miffed, and exhausted, he walked up to the shrine's office door and knocked. "Yes, who is it?" Yosho asked through the door. Ryoko: Who else comes there? "Grandpa, I've finished working on the fields." Tenchi said through the closed door. "Very good, Tenchi." Gene: (As Yosho) Now here's your treat "Is there anything else you want me to do?" Clayton: Give the girls a spong bath Ryoko and Gene: Yay! "No, that will be all for now. Why don't you go and wash up." Clayton: Because if he stinks he won't have to pry the girls off himself Tenchi: Why didn't I think of that Ryoko: Cause I wuldn't care "Alright." Tenchi replied. Tenchi walks the way back to the Masaki House. As Tenchi walked away from the shrine, Yosho was making sure that the coast was clear. Aisha: (As radio announces) On the coast it's a lovely 76 degrees and not a cloud in the sky Ryoko was sitting across the table sipping her saucer of sake as quietly as possible. Yosho turned to her and grinned. Washu: So this is a Yosho-Ryoko story Ryoko: Mom, don't give them ideas "I think it's safe for us to talk now, Ryoko." Yosho said, sipping his cup of tea. "Thanks, Yosho, for taking the time to chat." "My pleasure, Miss Ryoko. Please continue what you're saying." "Well, you know how much I'm attracted to your grandson." All: No, we had no idea Gene: (Picks up the phone) Hello Ripley's? "Yes, I'm aware. Are you going to ask for another blessing to marry Tenchi?" Tenchi: Been there, done that "Oh no! Uhh,...I was wondering, could you play a game of chess with me?" Ryoko asked. "Chess?" Yosho said, astonished. Clayton: You can play chess? Ryoko: I'm an expert... it's that one that looks like checkers and has the little horse right? Washu: I have no daughter "Yep!" Ryoko said happily. She reached into her blue gossamer dress and pulled out a wooden chess board. Gene: Where did she hide it? Aisha: I don't want to know Having placed the board on the table in front of Yosho, she waited for his response. "Why do you want to play a game of chess with me?" he asked curiously. "Well, I've only played this game once in my entire lifetime." Ryoko said. "I just wanted to see how well I play up against you, you know, a challenge." Clayton: I sense an alterior motive Gene: Only if she's invented strip chess All the girls: (hit him) Gene: Ow! Yosho thought to himself. Yosho looked at the board and then faced Ryoko and smiled. Washu: An old man slipping into seniliy "Very well, let us begin." "Oh yes! Great! Thank you Yosho!" Ryoko exclaimed. A half hour later... Gene: Ryoko had no clothes on Tenchi: Hey, she's married Ryoko: Yeah (hugs Tenchi) Aisha: So is he Ryoko looked up at Yosho with growing frustration. Things didn't turn out the way she expected it to be. Yosho was in his usual calm obviously focused on his next move. Ryoko thought to herself frowning. Yosho made his move and slid his chess piece. "Your move, Ryoko." He said. Ryoko slammed her piece and looked up at him. "Checkmate!" Ryoko yelled. "I don't understand this!" Yosho said with disbelief. Ryoko: (Holding an enlish to japanease dictionary) Hold on and I'll translate "Yosho," Ryoko gasped with a veiled hint of concern. "That's the three straight games you've lost in just a half hour. Are you sure you've played this game before?" Tenchi: (Laughs) "Yes. I've been playing this game all my life." Aisha: So the juraians brought chess to Earth? Gene: He was there for seven hundred years Yosho replied. "But,...I'm not clear on one thing. You said, you only played once?" "Yes, I swear! I've only played this game one time." "Then I have to admit, Ryoko. You're a most superior player." Washu: Of course she is, she's my daughter Ryoko: I thought you had no daughter? Washu: Oh shut up Tenchi: So that's where Ryoko get's it (Is hit by both of them) Ow! "Ok, thanks, I guess that's proof enough." Ryoko smiled. *** A few minutes later, at the Masaki house. Aeka and Sasami were in the living room watching a TV show when Ryoko suddenly materialized in front of Aeka's view. "Ryoko!" Aeka yelled angrily. "Would you please get out of the way! I'm trying to watch a soap opera!" "Sorry to rain on your parade there, Princess." Ryoko grinned. "But I have something that might interest you." Gene: Yay, it is a lemon! "What can you possibly have that would interest me?" Ryoko: If this is a lemon everyone dies Others: (Scoot away) "Well, this!" Ryoko smiled and brought out the chess board from her blue dress. Clayton: Washu, did you make that dress? Washu: Maybe, I can't remember "A chess board?" The princess paused momentarily and then frowned at Ryoko with suspicion. "What are you up to, this time?" Gene: I'd say six foot two Aisha: Seven if you include the hair "Ohh...nothing really." She smirked. "Actually, I just wanted to find out if you knew how to play chess." "I didn't know you play chess, Ryoko." Sasami interrupted. "I sure do, Sasami. Do you know how to play?" "No not really, but I'm willing to learn." Said the little princess. Then Sasami looked at her watch. "Well, it's time for me to go cook. I'll talk to you later." Tenchi: It's sad how often people do that to get Sasami out f the way Ryoko watched as Sasami left the living room and disappeared into the kitchen then she turned to Aeka. "Well, princess. Do you know how to play or don't you?" "I know how to play chess. But I wouldn't play it against a monster woman like you." "Oh, is that right?!" Ryoko growled. "Yes, that's right!" Clayton: (As Regis) Is that your final answer? Ryoko quickly buried her anger towards Aeka and focused back to her original objective and smiled. "Ok, fine. What if I were to offer you a small friendly wager?" "What could you possibly offer? I doubt that you have anything to wager on except for your stupid dress tails." Gene: About that, does Ryoko have a tail or not? Washu: Yahbut she has Sayan DNA so on full moons it disapears unless she wants it to stay "Even if it didn't involve Tenchi?" Ryoko grinned deviously. "What did you say?" Aeka stunned and turned to Ryoko and gave her a threatening gaze. "I'm warning you Ryoko, you better not be planning anything." Ryoko: (As Snidly Whiplash) My nefarious scheme has been discovered "What's the matter, little girl? Scared? Frightened that I will get to Tenchi before you can?" Aisha: Justifiably so it seems Tenchi: (Shrugs) "I'm not intimidated by you, demon." Aeka spoke undaunted. "You are too much, Aeka!" Ryoko laughed mockingly. Washu: Ok, I'll drop three dollars off the price, but that's all "What are you laughing about? What's so funny?" "You thought that I was going to get Tenchi by stealing him away from you?" "Isn't that why you're here? Isn't that what you have always been doing?" Gene: Bit paranoid huh? "Of course, that's why I'm here. But to make things a little different and interesting. I'm going to try to get to him fair and square." "You're joking right? You? Playing fair? I find that very hard to believe." "Well believe it, sister. I won't be using any parlor tricks." "I still doubt it. Why the sudden change?" "That's a good question in which I'll be more than happy to answer." All: (Look at Ryoko) Well? Ryoko: I got bored and this seemed like a good idea *** An hour later, Tenchi contentedly arrived at the house after a needed bathing in the floating onsen. He smiled and thought contently about washing away all his soreness from work; now, the only thing that bothered him was his hunger. Aisha: I know the feeling As Tenchi walked through the back door he immediately spotted Ryoko and Aeka sitting around the living room table, their attention locked onto the chess board. Miraculously, the girls didn't notice his arrival. Clayton: It's a miracle! Ryoko: Halleluya! Washu: Knock it off Usually they would greet him at the door and latch on to him, and when they grabbed him, a fight between them would usually occur. Whenever Ryoko and Aeka fought, Tenchi would usually be the one stuck with the bill to repair the damages. Gene: How? He has no job. His dad pays for everything Washu: And I do all the repairs Not wanting to ruin a perfect day, he decided not to disturb the girls. Heading straight towards the kitchen to see what little Sasami was cooking up, he discreetly walked through the kitchen door and savored the mouth watering aroma of Sasami's fried noodles. "Oh! Hello Tenchi!" Sasami said, smiling happily while she fried a pan of noodles. The little toddler Ryo-ohki was at the kitchen counter helping sort the vegetables on to a platter. Washu: Don't let her get hair in the food! Ryo-ohki turned around and greeted Tenchi. "Hello, Ryo-ohki." Tenchi waved and then noticed that Mihoshi wasn't around to help Sasami prepare the food. "Where's Mihoshi? I thought today was her day off." Tenchi asked Sasami. Ryoko: She's probably asleep Aisha: You're one to talk Gene: So are you! Clayton: I heard a rumor that Mihoshi was a super sayan "The Galaxy Police Headquarters called her in for an emergency meeting, she'll be back in a few days." Sasami answered. "Oh, I see." Tenchi replied and thought about Ryoko and Aeka. "Hey, Sasami?" "Yes, Tenchi?" "How long has it been since Ryoko and Aeka started playing chess?" Tenchi inquired. "I think about an hour. They've played about two games now. Ryoko has beaten Aeka in both matches." "Who challenged whom?" "Ryoko challenged Aeka." "Really?" "Yep." "Why would Ryoko do that?" Tenchi asked with even more curiosity. Ryoko: Why is everyone suspicious of me? "I think because she's bored. At first Aeka refused to play when Ryoko offered. "What changed her mind?" "Ryoko made an offer Aeka couldn't refuse. Tenchi: Horse head in the bed? Actually, not an offer, something more like a bet." "Which is what?" "If Aeka wins three out of five games of chess, Ryoko will take on all the chores for a month." "Ryoko wagered to do ALL the chores?!" Tenchi exclaimed with shock and disbelief. Ryoko: Hey! "That's right." Sasami replied as she poured the pan of noodles on to Ryo- ohki's vegetable platter. "For a whole entire month?! What happens if Ryoko wins?" Ryoko: Aeka has to dress like a chicken "If Ryoko wins, she'll get one chance to play a game of chess with you." "Oh Tenchi!" Ryoko yelled out from the living room. "Come on into the living room, Tenchi! Gene: Time for strip chess! Aisha: Gene... Ryoko: No wait, I'll go along with that Tenchi: (Blushes) "Uh oh. Why do I have a bad feeling about this?" Clayton: Because of all the times Washu called you into her lab just like thaRibbit! Ribbit ribbit! Washu: That's what you get Tenchi sighed. "I'm going to go check and see what's up. I'll see you later at dinner time." "Alright, Tenchi. Good luck. I'm almost done with cooking, I'll be out shortly." Gene: I'd be pretty sick of cooking if I were her too Tenchi walked out of kitchen and found Aeka walking up to her room looking very defeated. While Ryoko was resetting the chess pieces, Tenchi turned to Aeka with concern. "Are you feeling alright, Aeka?" "I'm fine, Tenchi. Go and talk to Ryoko," Aeka said, gloomily and continued on her way. "Call me whenever dinner's ready. In the meantime, I'll be in my room." "But Aeka-" "Oh don't worry about her, Tenchi." Ryoko interrupted. "She'll get over her defeat." "Ryoko, you should be more considerate about Aeka's feelings." Tenchi: Yeah! Ryoko: (Snorts) "I WAS being considerate, Tenchi!" She whined playfully. "In what way?" "I allowed Aeka to go up to her room instead of forcing her to listen to me gloat about my victory." Ryoko: Happy now Tenchi: It'll do "Oh jeez, Ryoko." He exasperated. Aisha: Can a human do that? Clayton: He is part alien Washu: I'll have to do some tests later Tenchi: (Hides behind Ryoko: Gene: Wuss (Ryoko hits him) Ow! "Ok, Tenchi! Come on over to the table!" Ryoko said excitedly, setting the chess board towards Tenchi. Washu: Bossy isn't she? Ryoko: (Evil grin) Some guys like that Washu: Like who? Clayton, Gene, and Tenchi: (raise their hands) Tenchi sits down across from Ryoko and looks down at the chess board. "I didn't know you play chess." "To tell you the truth. I don't really play chess all that much." She admitted. "Ok let's begin." "Uhh,...I hope you don't mind me asking but, why are we playing?" "You really want to know, Tenchi?" Ryoko asked, smiling childishly. Tenchi nodded. "I'm just trying to get one honest date out of you." Tenchi: (Hands Ryoko a bag of dates) "W-What do you mean?" He asked nervously. All: (Smack their heads) Idiot! "Don't worry about it. Let's just play chess. Trust me. Ok?" Aisha: No way! "Uh, sure. Okay." "But before we do, care to make a friendly wager?" Tenchi suddenly straightened up with alarm. "Friendly wager!?" Ryoko: Is there an echo in here? *** Meanwhile, Aeka was in her room worried about the sudden change in events. She replayed her conversation with Ryoko. "Well? What do you say princess?" Ryoko asked grinning. "Very well, Ryoko. I'll play chess but under one condition." "Okay, name it." "If you somehow manage to win, and if you do win that date with Tenchi. You must not in any circumstances try to seduce him." Ryoko: What? I wouldn't agree to that! "Whoa. Wait a minute there, princess. Now that's asking too much." "You said you were going to try to get to him fair and square, didn't you? Well it's now or never." Aeka retorted, tried to lay a desperate trap to find any of Ryoko's hidden agendas. "Which one will it be?" There was a long silence between the two girls. Aeka waited patiently as Ryoko considered her condition. Gene: Condition? Bad heart? Ryoko thought. She faced Aeka and smiled. "Alright princess, I'll play at your level. I won't like it but I'll do it." Ryoko: Rip off! "Good, then it's decided." Back to the present time. Tenchi: (As Michael J. Fox) Doc, what are you doing here? Clayton: (As Christopher Lloyd) We have to go back! Back to the present! She thought to herself and sighed. Aisha: Apparently Washu: Her grasp of the obvious is astounding *** At the same time, downstairs in the living room. Tenchi and Ryoko have yet to start their game of chess. "Well, Tenchi? Are you up to it? Ryoko: Sounds like our honeymoon Tenchi: (Blushes) Not funny. How wasI supposed to know you were a vir... (gets an energy sword against his neck) Ryoko: Not one more word or I'll be a widow Are you willing to bet?" "Hmm. Sounds fair enough. Let me review the agreement, one more time." "Fine." Ryoko sighed impatiently. "If I win, you will do ALL the chores of the house. Right?" "Yep." "For a whole month?" "Yes." "And if you win, I have to take you out on a date to any location in Japan of your choosing?" "That about sums it. And remember, just you and I." Gene: Shouldn't that be 'you and me'? Aisha: She's an alien, let it drop Tenchi thought about the agreement for the fifth time. "Oh come on Tenchi! Let's just play! You're stalling!" Ryoko demanded. Tenchi: Sorry, but the engine is flooded "Ok! Alright! Let's begin." "Sheesh, finally." She frowned and regained her smile. Tenchi and Ryoko turned their attentions towards the chess board. Clayton: Well since he doesn't turn them towards the girls Washu: Shut up "So who gets the first move?" Tenchi asked. "You will." "You sure?" "Yes." "Sure you don't want to start first?" "I insist." "I don't know..." "TENCHIII!" Ryoko cried out in frustration. "Will you please start!?" Gene: Whoa, someone needs to get laid Ryoko: (Is about to hit him, but then lets it slide) I have that covered... Is it time for the break yet? Clayton: Sure Ryoko: (Grabs Tenchi and teleports away) Others: (Get up to use the bathroom and get something to eat) "Okay. Okay. I was just kidding." Tenchi turned his attention onto the first chess piece. He concentrated and slid his pawn to the middle of the board. Ryoko copied his move. Tenchi moved his knight next to Ryoko's pawn. Ryoko places her bishop next to Tenchi's knight. "Check." "What?! Already?" Tenchi started. His mind being thrown out of concentration. "Yep." Tenchi moved his queen to protect his king. Ryoko took the queen away with her knight. Tenchi's eyes bulged out of their sockets. he thought. All: (sit back in their seats) "Check again." She stated. Tenchi and Ryoko: (realize they're wearing eachother's clothes) Oops (Chhange quickly) Washu: (covers Gene and Clayton's eyes) Tenchi slide his rook to protect his king and neutralized Ryoko's check. "How's that?" He boasted confidently. "Try that on for size." Tenchi: (Covers Ryoko's mouth before she mentions the honeymoon again) Ryoko used her queen and got rid of Tenchi's knight. Washu: Azaka or Kamidaki? Clayton: Hey, now that would be a cool chess game Gene: Noboyuki and Sasami would be the pawns Aisha: No, that would be us for agreeing to do this "Check." "Huh? How can this be?!" Tenchi baffled out. He desperately tried to regain his concentration. He advanced his bishop and took Ryoko's queen. In response, Ryoko slid her rook and cleared Tenchi's bishop. "Check and check mate." "This is unheard of!" Tenchi was perplexed. Clayton: I heard that perfectly well He looked at the chess board and found that Ryoko had strategically placed all her chess pieces. No matter what move he made, Ryoko would always come out the victor. "Ryoko, how in the universe did you learn how to play like this?" "You want to know a secret, Tenchi?" "Sure, tell me." "All I did was set up my chess pieces. After I've finished setting up, I go in for the kill." "I see. That was very interesting. You've gotta tell me some more secrets. I'm sure you have lots in stored." Gene: (Elbows Tenchi) So you can hit on a girl! "Tenchi?" "Yes?" "Are you trying to weasel out on our deal?" Ryoko asked suspiciously. "Me? Uhh,...No." He said nervously. "Good." Ryoko smiled. "Because you're taking me out to the perfect dating spot." "Where am I taking you? I hope it's no where expensive." "Oh no. Not at all. In fact, it's going to be totally free. Aisha: Probably your bedroom Tenchi: She promised Aeka she wouldn't Others: So? So you don't have to worry about the finances. Except for, of course, the bus fare." "Okay, sounds good. Where exactly, are we going?" "We're going to Naroda beach!" Ryoko exclaimed happily. "Naroda beach?! But it's going to take us at least an hour and a half to get there." Ryoko: Sounds great Washu: Hope you bring the cotton balls "Yes. And?" "I don't like long trips." "Why? Because it's just you and I?" Ryoko said as her smile disappeared, it was obvious her feelings had been hurt. All: (Fake cough) Bullshit! Ryoko: What was that? Tenchi realized that he had his foot in his mouth. Tenchi: Mmm, tastes great, less filling He thought angrily to himself. Tenchi: Hey, don't blame this on me! "Ryoko,...that's not what I meant." "Oh? What did you really mean, Tenchi? It sounded like you didn't want to go on a date with me at all." "It's not like that at all. I would love to take you out to Naroda." Washu: Aww, how sweet. My little Ryoko's first date "You would?" Ryoko's face lit up. "Then why are you having second thoughts?" "It's just the fact that we're going to be cooped up inside a bus for at least an hour and a half. I just hate those kind of long trips." "Oh, I see. Don't worry, Tenchi. I'll think of something that'll help occupy our time." Aisha: Poker? Gene: Yes! Aisha: Not that kind! Don't make me tell your wife about this "Okay. When are we leaving?" "First thing tomorrow morning. I also have a little surprise installed for you." "Umm,...yeah." Tenchi said nervously. Clayton and Gene: (Shake their heads sadly at Tenchi) "Dinner's ready!" Sasami called to everybody in the house. "Oh boy! I'm starving!" Tenchi exclaimed. Then he paused and remembered Aeka. Washu: I doubt Sasami would be willing to cook that Ryoko: I say we try anyway "What is it, Tenchi?" The little princess asked. "I gotta go get your sister. Don't wait up on me." He said and ran up the stairs. Aisha: Is he really going to eat her Gene: I hope s... (glances at Ryoko) not "Ok, Tenchi." Sasami spoke. When she turned around she saw Ryoko float towards Washu's lab. "Where are you going Ryoko?" Clayton: Oh Jee, there is a hard one "I'm going to fetch Washu for dinner. I'll be back shortly." Ryoko answered. Washu: Good girl Ryoko, now get the paper "Please hurry. You know how much I hate it when the food to gets cold." "Boy, do I." Ryoko joked and happily patted Sasami's head as she floated towards Washu's lab. *** Washu was busy typing away on her keyboard, trying to figure out why hot dogs are always packaged at ten a piece and hot dog buns are packaged in only eight. Clayton: Animaniac jokes Washu? Washu: Yeah, so? Gene: I think that's just what she puts up so we don't see the porn Behind the busy scientist, Ryoko walked into the lab. "Who is it? Go away. I'm busy right now." Washu said. All: (Hum the tune from Psyco) Ryoko cleared her throat loudly to catch Washu's attention. Washu turned around and her face lit up. All: (Put on their sunglasses) "Ah! What can I do for you Little Ryoko?" "Mom, can you stop calling me that?" Ryoko muttered, obviously annoyed by Washu's babying tone. Ryoko: Yeah, you tell her! "Sure, little Ryoko. What can mommy do for you?" Washu: Do I really sound like that? No wonder you get annoyed Ryoko: So you'll stop? Washu: No Ryoko grumbled a bit but quickly calmed down. "Well,...uh, mom. I managed to finally get a date with Tenchi." "Oh you did?!" Washu exclaimed. "I'm so proud of you! My little girl finally did it!" Gene: She did? Was I in the bathroom? "Mom, please! You're making me sick!" "How did you do it? Did you control his mind?" "No." "Did you slip a photon neuralizer in his drink?" "No." "Did you tap in to his cerebral cortex and plant subliminal commands?" All: (Scoot away from Washu) "No!" Ryoko screamed in annoyance. "Mom! Will you listen! I played chess against him and won." "Not bad, Ryoko. Not as complex as planting subliminal messages Washu: (As George W. Bush) Subliminabuble but still, not bad at all. It's crude yet effective. So where's your date going to be?" Ryoko: Don't tell her you fool! "We're going to Naroda Beach." "That's a very nice resort beach. Good choice, Ryoko." "I know." Ryoko agreed and smiled wildly. "There's going to be a lot of people there and well,..." "What Ryoko?" "Can you do me a favor?" "Sure, what is it?" Ryoko reached in to her back pocket and pulled out one of Washu's computer discs. She hands it to Washu and Washu looks at it curiously. "What is this, Ryoko?" Clayton: One of your computer discs, weren't you listening? "Take a look at it on your computer." Ryoko instructed. "I'll see you tomorrow morning." Ryoko runs out of the lab. Gene: Can you blame her? Aisha: See Ryoko run. Run Ryoko, run. Clayton: See Washu screw with your brain. Screw WaRibbit ribbit (sighs, despite being a frog) Washu: (Turns him back) Now keep quiet "Alright." Washu replied. She placed the disc in to her computer and logs into it's files. The screen displayed Ryoko's request. Aisha: A bowl of candy? Washu smiled with overwhelming joy and excitement. Gene: I knew you were looking at porn! "This could turn out to be very interesting." *** Tenchi walked up to Aeka's door and knocked. "Yes? Who is it?" Aeka asked through the door. "It's me, Aeka." Tenchi answered. Ryoko: (Rips off Tenchi's mask reveiling Aeka) Ahhh! Washu: Just kidding (Turns Tenchi back to himself) "I've come to tell you that it's time for dinner." A few moments later Aeka appeared at the doorway. "Let's go eat." She said. They both walked down the hallway, not saying a word to each other. Aeka decided to break the silence. Aisha: You break it ya bought it "How did you do on the chess game against Ryoko?" "I did poorly. I thought I was a pretty good chess player but Ryoko really proved me wrong." The one answer that Aeka had been dreading since she was in her room. "And?" she asked apprehensively. "What can I say. I'm going to go on a date with her tomorrow morning." "Where are you going?" "We're going to Naroda beach, it's a resort area." Aeka didn't step any further, she tugged on Tenchi's elbow and stopped him from walking any further. "Tenchi, there's something I wish to tell you." "What. What is it, Aeka?" Ryoko: She's really a man? Gene: She's dating Noboyuki if Ryoko get's you? Aeka struggled, she wanted to tell Tenchi how she felt about him. "Please be careful out there. Anything can happen, don't hurt yourself." She spoke instead of 'Tenchi, I love you'. "Don't worry, Aeka. I'll be safe just as long as Ryoko is around. Tenchi: (Kisses Ryoko's cheek) You know how powerful she is." "Yes." Aeka said, disheartened. "Let's go eat. I'm starving.!" Aisha: (Gets up to get a snack) Aeka nodded in response and followed Tenchi down to the dining table. Ryo- ohki was in her humanoid form, eating her carrots and Sasami sat right beside her. Ryoko was already at the dining table happily eating her food until she looked up and waved at Tenchi. Tenchi looked around and noticed that Washu wasn't around. "Where's Washu?" Tenchi asked. Washu: (Waves) Over here! "She's in her lab, working on some experiment." Ryoko answered. "Oh? What is she working on?" Tenchi: Her computer, what else? "You'll find out soon enough." Ryoko hinted. "Let's forget about her and just eat!" Washu: Hey! "Uhh,...right." He tensed. "It better not be anything sexual, Ryoko." Aeka threatened suddenly. Ryoko: Mwahahaha! "Hey, don't worry princess. I haven't forgotten about our agreement." "You better not forget, Ryoko. Or else. If you hurt Tenchi in any-" "If I hurt Tenchi!?" Ryoko barked. "Why you silly little girl! Where you do get off saying that I will hurt Tenchi!?" Gene: Interesting choice of words considering Aeka's fetishes. Ryoko: Yeah, she probably WANTS to hurt him Tenchi: (Gulp) "I can say anything I like! I don't think you're very trustworthy." Washu: This from the girl who tried ramming speed while in orbit? "Oh. We'll see about that." "I doubt that we will." "You'll see. First thing tomorrow morning, your doubts will be no more." Ryoko assured. Clayton: Was that a death threat? Ryoko: (Smiles warmly) Aeka didn't respond to Ryoko's assurance, she still doubted Ryoko. Ryoko was silent, she continued on eating. She finally finished up her meal and stood up to go to Washu's lab. She turned and faced Tenchi. "Tenchi, I'll see you tomorrow morning." "Alright." "Is there anything you want me to bring for tomorrow?" Ryoko asked. "Umm, I think we'll need some food to bring along, suntan oil, towels, bathing suits, Gene: Spoil sport! and an extra pair of clothes to change into." "Ok. Done. I'll see you later." Ryoko said and opened the door to Washu's lab. After Ryoko disappeared in to Washu's lab, Aeka turned to Tenchi. "Are you still willing to go with her?" "Yes, Aeka. I have to." "But are you willing to go?" "What do you mean, Aeka?" Tenchi: (Puts his head in his hands) Oh brother "You don't have to go unless you want to. Right?" "You know I can't do that." "Why not, Tenchi?" "Because it's not right. I've already set up an agreement with Ryoko. I'm not going to be the one to back out." Tenchi: (As Mojojojo) For I can not backout, because it is an agreement that I have agreed to and backing out would break that agreement making is no longer agreed upon "But she's a space pirate! You certainly don't have to carry out an agreement with her!" Aeka yelled out desperately. Ryoko: Huh, so much for Jurai's honor Gene: No wonder everyone wanted Tenchi or Yosho to be king Clayton: She's not acting Tenchi was surprised to see Aeka using that tone of voice. "I don't like hurting either of you. I'm sorry Aeka, a promise is a promise. I always keep my word." Tenchi retorted. "I, I understand." She said feeling defeated. *** During the late twilight hours, barely wearing anything to keep herself warm, Gene and Clayton: Woo hoo! Tenchi: Hey that's my wife! Clayton: Then be glad she's that pretty Ryoko had been strapped against the wall by Washu's restraining device. "How long is this going to take?" Ryoko asked impatiently. "Just a few more minutes." Washu responded while typing away on her keyboard. "Well, hurry up! I hate being cooped up in this contraption of yours! I haven't quite forgiven you for that last time, you know." "Oh calm down, Ryoko. I won't do anything like that again. At least, not for a while." Washu: Now that would make a good honeymoon joke Ryoko and Tenchi: (blush) "You left me hanging up here alone in the cold dark! Just how do you expect me to calm down?" Washu: Whiner Ryoko: (Hits Washu) Washu ignored her and decided to change the subject. Aisha: You are a genius "So why didn't you ask me yourself?" "What do you mean?" "You know what I mean, Ryoko. Why didn't you ask me in person? It's sounds a lot better than just asking via computer disc." "Oh. Uh,...I don't know. It's a pride thing I guess." "Pride, huh? Oh it's so sad that a daughter can't talk to her mother." Washu wailed playfully. "Oh poor little me! My daughter's afraid to speak to me!" Clayton: Can you blame her? "OK! Alright! I get the point." Ryoko cried out and decided to change the subject. "So, Washu. How long will this last?" Washu: I wish I knew what I was doing "So, Ryoko. How long do you want your little request to last?" "Just give me a day." "Be more specific." "From sun up to midnight, I guess." "Ah,...so you're doing the Cinderella bit aren't you?" Gene: She's turning into a pumkin? Washu: (Evil grin) Slowly but surely (Ducks under Ryoko's swing) "Well, if that's what they call it on this planet. Yes." "Very interesting, Ryoko." Washu complimented. Ryoko looked away from Washu, she struggled to gather her thoughts to find the right words. Ryoko: Now where did I put those? "Thank you." Ryoko said barely. "What did you say, Ryoko?" Washu inquired honestly. "Thank you for helping me. Mother." Ryoko smiled softly. Washu: Aww Others: (Snicker at Ryoko) "My pleasure. Anything to help my little daughter on her first date." Washu returned. Feeling great happiness, Washu typed in the last few commands on to her keyboard and released Ryoko. Ryoko stepped down onto the floor. "You better get some sleep, Ryoko. Otherwise, you'll disappoint Tenchi." "Don't worry, I will. Good night." Ryoko expressed. Ryoko left the lab and heads towards her room, happily anticipating the next morning. *** Meanwhile, a few billion miles away, on the planet Jurai, Shoji was on his way towards the throne room. Aisha: Who? Shoji isn't your traditional type of Jurian, instead of having long graceful hair that went down his back, he had a mid length tail that only reached the base of his neck. He is a Jurian noble and even more unusual, a knight of the royal guard. One of the most powerful and capable, he's considered highly among his peers and colleagues maybe because of his honesty, his humor and his non-royal attitude. He finally arrived at the emperor's throne room. Tenchi: (As Asuza) Shoji, I'm on the toilet! "You summoned me, my liege?" Shoji asked while kneeling. "Yes, Shoji. I have." "What can I do for you, sire?" "I've looked at your record and because of your valuable service to this royal family, I've decided to reassign you." "And what's my reassignment, sir?" "From this point on, you're going to be Princess Aeka's bodyguard." Washu: Yay, Aeka's daddy got her a boyfriend! Tenchi and Ryoko: (Much rejoicing) "Her bodyguard?!" Shoji looked up in surprise. He thought curiously. Aisha: well they are the right shape if Washu shrinks them again Gene: I'll tell Jim you said that Aisha: (Hits him) "Is there something wrong, Shoji?" Azusa questioned. "Uh, no sire. But I was wondering..." "Yes?" "Pardon me for asking, my liege. Aren't the Guardians of Jurai, proven to be adequate bodyguards for her?" Azusa flinched a little. Washu: so he points behind Shoji and runs Clayton: Brilliant! "Why yes. But I've decided that you're the best of the best All: (Put on their sunglasses... the rip them off and point the neuralizers at themselves. The batteries are dead) and I want the first crown princess of Jurai to be well protected. You can't blame a father for being protective, right?" Shoji noticed that the king of Jurai had a bead of sweat on his head. And decided not to think about the reassignment any further. "Of course. I'm sorry to have questioned you." "That's quite alright." "When do I depart?" "As soon as possible. I'll contact Prince Yosho as soon you're on the way." "Yes, my lord. I'll start packing." Shoji bows and leaves the room. Azusa watched as the knight left. He restrained hard to keep in his laugh. Aeka thought. "Uh, Tenchi?" Ryoko asked. "What Ryoko?" "What are you waiting for?" "I'm waiting on you to teleport us to the bus stop." "Right. About that..." "Ryoko, what's wrong?" "Nothing's wrong, it's just that I can't do that right now." "What do you mean, you can't do that right now?" Tenchi asked. "Are you sick?" "No." "Is there something bothering you?" "No, not really." "You don't want to go?" "Oh no!" Ryoko answered loudly. "Nothing like that, I assure you." "Then what?" All: Tell us! "Well, didn't you notice the way I came out here?" "Yes. You used the door." "That's right. I USED the door." "So? What's so different about that?" "Tenchi, you're not getting what I'm trying to say. Can you remember the last time I used the door to go in and out of the house?" Gene: She's got a point. Usualy the only thing she grabs at that level is Tenchi Tenchi thinks and tries to remember the last time he saw Ryoko using the front door. "Come to think of it, Ryoko. I don't think you ever used the front door." "That's right. I never USED the door." Ryoko stressed. Tenchi thought about Ryoko's last remark carefully and realized what she really meant. His eyes bulged out in pure shock. He was speechless. "Are you telling us that you can't use any of your powers?" Aeka spoke loudly. Ryoko nodded happily. All: Oh... "See Aeka! Now you don't have to worry about me seducing Tenchi in any way. Now, I'm as human as he is." "How should that matter? Ryoko: It shouldn't, it's just a convinient excuse Why did you lose your powers?" Aeka asked wildly. "And how did-" "I'm sure it's interesting to find out why, but who cares! We're going to be late!!" Tenchi interrupted Aeka, he straightened up his shades and grabbed Ryoko's arm. "Come on, Ryoko! Let's go! If we don't catch this bus, the next one won't arrive until noon!" "Uh, right. See ya Aeka! And don't worry! I won't do any thing to Tenchi!" Ryoko shouted. "You better not Ryoko! Or else I'll send Azaka and Kamadake to check on you!" Aeka shouted back. Aisha: Like she'd know! Ryoko stuck her tongue and pulled her bottom right eyelid at Aeka as she hustled off with Tenchi to catch the bus. "We'll be home tomorrow morning. See you later." Tenchi said as he waved back to Aeka. Aeka watched as Tenchi and Ryoko ran off towards the bus stop. She sighed in frustration. "Aeka." Said a voice from behind. Aeka turned around and found Yosho. Gene: Ok, now you go hide! "Yes, brother?" "I have a message for you from father." Yosho said as he handed Aeka a subspace telegram. Clayton: (Sings) While you were out your cat did die, do da do da, and your mother left with the plumbing guy, oh the do da day! Gene: Oh that's harsh "Thank you, Yosho." Aeka read her father's message and a few moments later, she was in absolute anger. "What?! I don't believe this! Father's assigning me a new bodyguard?!" "That's what it looks like." "And what is going to happen to Azaka and Kamadake?" "They are currently being reassigned to another person." "What? To who?" "Good morning, Aeka!!" Aeka turned around and found Little Sasami riding on top of Azaka. Tenchi: That is so cute "Sasami?" Aeka questioned. "Guess what father did today!" Sasami exclaimed happily. Ryoko: Disowned her? To be continued... Tenchi Muyo: Ryoko's Love...Alpha! Chapter 2A: Naroda Beach Pt. 1 By Long T. Tran Disclaimer: I don't own these characters, AIC/Pioneer owns them. I don't intend to make money off this because I don't want to get a lawsuit. I'm too poor for that. But this is my original story concept, so don't plagiarize! Author's notes: Naroda beach is a fictitious place, just wanted to let ya know before you start reading. Clayton: So much for my weekend plans As you read, you may notice that I've added a new literary feature to my FF, subchapter titles. All: Huzzah! ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Washu's Wonderful Toys Gene: (As Asuza) Mwhahahahahaha! After having caught up with the bus in time, Tenchi and Ryoko were nearly out of breath. They walked down the middle aisle of the bus and Ryoko took her seat right next to a window, Tenchi sat down next to her. Tenchi looked around the bus through his shades, he only saw two other people inside the bus, the driver and an old gray bearded man. Ryoko: Yosho, go home! Tenchi was no longer gasping for air and decided to break the silence. "So you've volunteered to lose your powers?" Tenchi questioned. "Yes. For only a day." Ryoko confirmed. "How does it feel right now? Aisha: Kind of itches a little You know, to not be able to use your powers." "It's kinda hard to describe. Actually, it feels weird. In a way, I feel small." Washu: Gene knows the feeling Gene: Hey! "Hmm. I think I understand what you're getting at. Maybe because, you don't have your powers." "Maybe." "Which brings another question to mind." "What's up? Clayton: (As Bugs Bunny) Have you seen a little critter with long ears, a cotton tail, and hops around like this? All: (Point at Ryo-oki) Ask away." "Why did you decide to turn off your powers for just today?" Gene: Clap on, clap off "You know that's a funny question." "Oh? Why?" "I don't know..." "You don't?" Tenchi said, perplexed. "You're very weird, Ryoko." "I know." She sighed happily. "I'll tell you later on, ok?" "Uh, sure. Okay." Tenchi: How could I be this thick? Ryoko: Because you were innocent. It was kind of cute, if a bit annoying Washu: Agreed "What time do you think we'll arrive at Naroda Beach?" Ryoko asked. Tenchi looked at his watch and estimated the time. "Hmm, right now my watch reads 7:50, I think we'll arrive at around 9:30 or 10. It's going to be a long ride." Tenchi sighed unhappily and sank in his seat. "I think I can fix that by cutting this trip by ninety-nine percent." "Oh really, Ryoko. And how are you going to do that?" Tenchi asked skeptically. Ryoko reached over her shoulder and dug into her black backpack. Tenchi looked at Ryoko curiously as she pulled out a palm-sized, rectangular-shaped, silver box. She handed the device to Tenchi. Gene: (A grin covers his face) Aisha: Gene I'll tell... Gene: Like that'll do anything. She's worse than I am. Melfina wanted me to ask you and Suzuka to... (shuts his mouth) Crap, now she'll want to use the duct tape "Uh, what is this Ryoko?" he asked apprehensively. "Something that'll help speed our trip a little. Why don't you put that nice little toy right there next to your left foot." Tenchi did as Ryoko directed without giving much thought. "Ok, now what?" "All we have to do now is wait 5 seconds." Ryoko replied. "Sounds simple enough." Tenchi said. Then a horrifying thought finally dawned on him. "Wait a minute! You didn't get this from Washu did you?" "Yes, I did as a matter of fact. And that means you should hold on tight!" Tenchi did not hesitate to follow Ryoko's advice. He quickly grabbed and tightly held onto a seat that was in front of him. Instead of a seat, Ryoko clutched onto Tenchi's waist. Suddenly, Tenchi could hear a low whistling sound that emanated from Washu's device. Washu: Oh this is gonna be good "Uh oh. I don't like the sound of that...!" "Oh don't worry about it, Tenchi! Here comes the really fun part!" Clayton: Hit the dirt! The fat bus driver was happily minding his own business when suddenly he heard a low pitch whistling that sounded like it was coming from behind. Tenchi: The old man was mooning people Then the steering wheel started to go crazy in his hands, as if the wheel was driving the bus for him. "What's going on here!? I can't control the bus! " the driver screamed. "OH MY GOD! WE'RE DEAD AND WE'RE ON THE EXPRESS BUS THAT'S HEADED STRAIGHT TOWARDS HELL!" Ranted the old man. Clayton: Wasn't this how Nightmare on Elmstreet started? Then the surroundings of the bus were suddenly immersed in a blanket of brilliant color and light. The bus's rumbling quickly subsided into a floating ride. Tenchi: Whoa man, the colors "What's going on, Ryoko?!?" Tenchi asked fearfully. "We're just travelling at the speed of light. Well, the same concept at the least." Aisha: They had to stop briefly to leave a note when they bumped into the Enterprise At that very instant, the bus dropped out of warp and Ryoko released herself from Tenchi's waist and looked through the bus's glass window. This was the first time she ever saw the crystal blue waters of Naroda beach. Tenchi was tense and quickly looked up, grabbed Washu's warp device and wiped a sweat from his forehead. "Ok, we're here! Let's go before the driver decides to ask any questions." Tenchi said and quickly stood up, grabbed Ryoko's arm and rushed out of the closest exit. Tenchi: Busses usually only have one exit As they hurriedly departed from the bus, Ryoko had time to stop for a second to turn to the bewildered bus driver and smiled. "Thank you for the ride, kind sir!" Ryoko said happily, waving at the driver. Clayton: Ye verily The driver didn't at all respond to Ryoko's gratitude, he gawked and simply closed the door and sped off on the road at a wild acceleration. Tenchi couldn't help but sigh in exasperation. Tenchi and Ryoko were both on the sidewalk pavement that bordered the highway and Naroda beach. "Well, at least we're here. Although, a bit earlier than expected..." Tenchi said and smiled as he viewed the beautiful sandy white beach that laid before him. He reached into his backpack and pulled out his father's photo camera. Washu: hmm, aparently it'd genetic Ryoko: No! Tenchi: Washu, you've got to help me! I don't want to turn into dad! Washu: I'll see what I can do Tenchi turned to Ryoko and aimed his camera at her. He stepped in front of Her and made sure that she was in the foreground while the resort beach was in the background. "Taking the first photograph of the day, Tenchi?" "Yes I am, Ryoko. Smile." Ryoko smiled brightly showing her perfect row of teeth and held up her right hand to show a peace sign. The camera gave out two snapping sounds indicating that Tenchi took two pictures. "I didn't know you like to take pictures, Tenchi." "I've always wanted to, but never came around to actually trying it. Besides, I figure today would be a good day to start. It's not everyday I get to go to a nice resort beach. I just know those pictures are going to turn out perfect." Gene: And a week later they'll be all over the internet Tenchi said and placed the camera back into his backpack. He looked at his watch. "Hmm. Eight o'clock. Not even the shops are open." Ryoko didn't hear a word of what Tenchi had just said. She looked around and saw that the beach was surrounded by little shops and stands. There was an elevated pier, one hundred fifty to three hundred yards away from the beach's waterline that served as a foundation to the seaside hotel. There was also a nearby travelling carnival that's yet to open for the day. Tenchi: Very observant Ryoko: Thank you Ryoko noticed a huge Ferris wheel that towered the fair, it stood approximately 200 ft. off the ground, one of the biggest she's ever seen. The water is clear and crystal blue, Ryoko could actually see the fish swimming beneath the water's surface. Aisha: Shark! The eight o' clock sun shined very brightly into her golden-yellow eyes. Ryoko closed her lids and welcomed the gusts of the ocean's cool winds blown against her face. She sniffed the aroma of the ocean breeze and relaxed. She thought contently. She opened her eyes and found that the beach was deserted. "Uh, Tenchi?" "Yes, Ryoko?" "Where's everybody? Isn't there supposed to be a lot of people at this beach?" Washu: Such poor gramar "Well, that's the thing, Ryoko. They haven't started their arrival yet. Not even the shops are open. What do you suggest we do now?" Ryoko: Well we're alone, on a beach, and have suntan oil. I can think of a few things "Not to worry, we can start looking for a spot to set up our little base camp." Ryoko assured. "Base camp? But we didn't even bring any tents or camping utilities." "Not to worry. I have it all covered." Ryoko assured as she scanned the beach for an ideal spot to set up camp. Tenchi stood there next to her and waited patiently. Then after a few moments of surveying, Ryoko spotted the perfect area. "Eureka! I've found it!" Ryoko exclaimed. She grabbed Tenchi's arm and stepped off from the sidewalk and onto the beach's white sands. They walked along near the waterline for about three minutes, turned right and arrived in front of a bare concrete foundation that used to support an elevated beach house. Ryoko examined the barren concrete slab and estimated it's length and width. Aisha: She's been doing that a lot "What are we doing here, Ryoko?" Tenchi inquired curiously. Clayton: That's a very philosophical question "I'm just setting up our little camp." Ryoko replied as she reached into her travel bag. "But don't we need tents?" Washu: (Glances at Tenchi's pants) "I said don't worry, Tenchi." Ryoko pointed out as she revealed to Tenchi another silver box. This time the box looked more square than rectangle and it had a red button. All: Oh crap! Not the red button! "Oh I get it! That little box is containing our tents right?" "Well, not exactly our tents..." Tenchi tensed at the remark. Ryoko joyfully placed the silver box onto the concrete foundation and pressed the red button. The box suddenly opened up, unfolded rapidly, and quickly transformed into a beach house. The house was elevated by wooden supports and resembled the Masaki residence, except it was a smaller version, just enough to fit the concrete foundation. It was only a single story house, the front end faced the mainland while the back faced the ocean, the back had a nice balcony patio that overlooked the sea. Ryoko: Now we've got a place of our own Tenchi: Ryoko, my dad buys the food Ryoko: Damn "It's more like a temporary residence, courtesy of Washu." Ryoko finished off. "Thank you, Washu!" Tenchi said in awe. Washu: you're welcome... hey! Tenchi and Ryoko walked up the stairway and opened the front door. Both stepped through the door and were amazed that the furniture had been provided as well, not only that, the interior is identical to the home back in Okayama. "I'm going into the kitchen to put up all of Sasami's food." Ryoko noted to Tenchi. She opened the door to the kitchen and walked through. "Go ahead and take a look around." As Ryoko walked into the kitchen, Tenchi was clearly happy about the beach house. He placed his backpack onto the sofa and noticed the television set. He stepped over to the living room area and turned on the TV. The TV flickered on and the channels were less then Okayama's but they were working nominally. He decided to turn off the TV set and headed out towards the patio. Tenchi found that the patio had two body length patio chairs to lay on and an outdoor umbrella dining set for four. Tenchi laid down on one of the patio chairs. He inclined the chair to sit upright to view the morning beach. The beach waves rhythmically beat against the water's edge, the sun was warm, the clouds balanced out the heat and the wind was soothingly cool. He looked at his watch again, it read, 8:10 am. All: (Snoring) Washu: I don't snore! (Hits Clayton for writing that) Clayton: Ow! he thought. "Ah, paradise!" Tenchi said happily. "You can say that again, Tenchi." Ryoko agreed as she walked out and she sat down onto the patio chair next to Tenchi's. She laid down but didn't incline her chair to sit up. "How do you like our date so far?" "I'm really enjoying this trip, Ryoko. This is a great place to relax and have fun!" "I knew you would like it, Tenchi." Ryoko said, her voice sounding very soft and quiet. "Tell me about it! I'm going to love this day to the very end. You have to be crazy not to. I mean, this day had been so full of surprises. Like that quick bus ride, your backpack of surprises, and not to forget, your..." Tenchi cut himself off and noticed that Ryoko was unusually quiet. He looked down beside at her and realized that Ryoko was quietly fast asleep. "Uh, Ryoko? Hello?" Ryoko didn't respond, she was already deep in her sleep. He thought while admiring Ryoko's tranquil and serene face. Ryoko: (wakes up) Hey! Clayton: Looks like the authore forgot how to spell sight Washu: Too much time on the internet An idea popped into Tenchi's mind and he Gene: (crosses his fingers) quickly walked back into the house and dug into his backpack and grabbed the camera. He stepped out to the patio and quietly took Ryoko's pictures. Gene: Dang After taking three snapshots, Tenchi paced back into the house and placed the camera back into his backpack and was out in the patio again. He found himself staring at Ryoko's face as she slept quietly. Tenchi noticed that Ryoko had started to sweat due to the sun's rays, he carefully grabbed the dining table's umbrella and placed it carefully over Ryoko, giving her plenty of shade. Tenchi smiled at Ryoko again and sat down in his chair and peacefully watched Naroda beach's ever changing waterline. Tenchi: Oh look, a wave (drowning sounds) *** Mihoshi! All: (Scream in terror) Washu: What the hell was that!? Clayton: I think the author wanted to make sure we were awake Meanwhile, halfway across the known universe, at the Galaxy Police Headquarters Mihoshi's shuttle prepares to depart for it's next assignment. Mihoshi pulled off her formal gloves and jacket while making her way towards the cockpit. Gene: Don't stop! Mihoshi thought. She arrived at the cockpit and sat down in front of the shuttle control module. "Oh, Yukinojo!" Mihoshi happily summoned. "Yes? Miss Mihoshi?" The robot said as it appeared from the cockpit ceiling. "Set a course for the Orion system." "Yes ma'am." The robot complied. The shuttle activated the maneuvering thrusters and started to slowly back away from its assigned port. "What's our next mission, detective Mihoshi?" Washu: To arrest the crew from Star Treck for every time they broke the prime directive Aisha: You have no life, do you? Washu: (Realization dawns) Oh gods, I'm a dweeb! I need sex now! Clayton: (Knocks out Gene) Break time! (Grabs Washu and runs out of the room) Others: (carry Gene to the hospital) "It's a really simple assignment. All we have to do is rendezvous with the Fourth Patrol Fleet and set course for a planet called Orion" "Why are we heading out to such a remote planet?" "To investigate why we've suddenly lost communication traffic from our outpost on Orion. We're ordered to find the problem and fix it. It's probably some glitch in their computer systems or something." "Pardon me for asking, but..." "Yes? What is it Yukinojo?" "Don't you find it peculiar that HQ is sending out an ENTIRE patrol fleet just to investigate a minor case?" Mihoshi's jovial face suddenly turned serious and thought about the robot's point. "It is kind of odd, isn't it?" "Do you think its more than just a glitch?" "Hmm. You might be onto something, Yukinojo. Oh well! Can't start worrying about it now!" Mihoshi, said and reverted back to her cheerful carefree attitude. "I guess we're just going to have to go with the flow! Oh, Yukinojo!" "Yes, ma'am?" "Set a course for the Orion System! And when after that mission's done and out of the way... Home!" "Yes, ma'am!" All: (back) Clayton: (Looks severly dehydrated and gasps out) Water... need water Washu: Well it has been twenty thousand years (Gives him some Gatoraid) We'll finish up later Clayton: (Drinks all of it) Sure, just let me rest for a few... years The shuttle pulled clear from its dock and sped off into the vast voidness of space. *** Aeka's Request Ryoko: (As Aeka) Kill me! A few hours had passed since after Tenchi and Ryoko's departure for Naroda beach. Trying to distract herself from thinking about Tenchi and Ryoko's 'incidental' date. The garden, which was placed inside the Masaki greenhouse, is elegantly decorated with a different assortment of soft and bold colored flowers collected from planets Earth and Jurai. Aeka was wearing her gardener's apron and gloves. Gene: Like she would do that! She planted the latest flower to her botanical collection, a red rose. With precise and gentle care, Aeka nourished the blossoming earth flower with water. After she watered the floral plant, Aeka sniffed the fragrance of the rose and smiled softly. she thought to the rose. Aisha: So Juraians talk to trees? No wonder they are so dull Aeka untied her apron and pulled her gloves off of her hands. She turned away from her garden and headed back to the house. She walked out of the greenhouse and looked up and found that Sasami was happily riding on top of Kamadake, flying around in the open skies above. Aeka smiled as Sasami laughed out with all her energy, Sasami was having the time of her life. Clayton: Today we bury Sasami who fell to her death... All: (Hit him) Aeka thought. Aeka looked up at Sasami, who's still flying around and an idea came to her mind. "Oh, Sasami!" Aeka called out. "Hello Aeka!" Sasami greeted happily. She orders Kamadake to land right next to Aeka. "I see that you're having fun with your new guardians." "I sure am! So why did you call for me?" "Well, I was wondering, could you do me a small favor?" "Sure, Aeka! What is it?" Gene: I read a lemon that started like this. (He looks at Washu) You were in part 3 "Could you by chance, come with me on a little outing?" "Outing?" Sasami said, puzzled. She paused for a moment and frowned at Aeka. "Aeka, are you asking me to go with you to crash in on Tenchi and Ryoko?" All: Duh! "To be straightforward with you, yes I am." "Forget it, Aeka! I'm not going!" "Please, Sasami! It means a lot to me!" Aeka begged. "It's not right! Let Tenchi and Ryoko enjoy their first date..." "I won't allow that, Sasami! I just won't!" Aeka interrupted. Ryoko: She probably doesn't even know what sex is Clayton: I wrote several stories to that effect "I can't believe you said that, Aeka! You were taught better than that! Of all the people to break promises! Didn't you expect this to happen when you first shook hands with Ryoko?" Sasami frowned. Aisha: I saw it coming a mile away Gene: I want to barrow your binoculars "Ryoko would never do a thing like that to you! Never!" Ryoko: (Looks around innocently) Course not... Aeka stood silent, shocked by Sasami's sudden outburst. "Well? What do you have to say? Your newly assigned bodyguard is already on his way, he should arrive any minute now. You must either stay here and welcome him. Or you can just go to Naroda and start up another fight with Ryoko and hurt Tenchi's feelings at the same time." Washu: Oh this is a hard one "You're right." Aeka said reluctantly. Washu: To the beach it is "How foolish of me to even think about breaking my word of honor. I am the crown princess of Jurai and I must keep my promises, no matter how hard it may be." Sasami sighed in relief. "I guess we should start preparations on a welcoming party for my new guardian. By the way, Sasami. Would you have any clue on who's to be my new bodyguard?" "No. Not really, Aeka, but brother Yosho might know. Why don't you go ask him?" "I just might do that, Sasami. Thank you for the suggestion. And thank you for setting me back in place." Aisha: Don't forget to dust first "Don't mention it, sis." *** The Sunblock Gene: Yay Clayton: (Glances at Washu and feels tired) At around one o'clock, Ryoko finally came about. She opened her eyes and looked over to Tenchi and smiled. Tenchi was reading a book from grandfather's office, he looked up from the book and smirked at her. "So, you're finally awake." "Oh my! How long was I asleep?" "Not very long. Only about three to four hours." "I'm sorry to have you wait on me like that, Tenchi..." "Oh, it's ok. I'm not mad. I actually spent the whole time sitting here enjoying the view, reading this book and watch the arrival of all those people." He interrupted and pointed out towards the sands. Tenchi: I never interup Ryoko raised her patio chair and found that the beach was alive and full of activity. Her face lit up with excitement. Ryoko: I guess Washu's inventions have side effects "Oh wow! Will you look at the beach! It's so full of life!" Ryoko exclaimed. There were two separate volleyball courts, being played at the same time. People playing and swimming in the crystal waters. A few sunbathers, people sitting beneath huge umbrellas, small picnics were held, lovers cuddling and walking, Gene: Yay! sand castles being built, kids flying kites, and three individuals fishing. And lastly, there were people at the carnival. "Come on, Tenchi! Let's go!" "Wait. Not yet, Ryoko." "What? Why not?" Aisha: He wants a commiment first "Since we're going to be out in the sun all day, we might as well where some skin protection." "Skin protection?" Ryoko said perplexed. "Yep. These days, it's not safe to be out in the sun without wearing any sun block. Long exposures to the sun's rays can cause skin cancer." "Oh, I see. Okay then, you wait here while I go get the sunblock." Tenchi: (Sarcastcaly) Oh this is going to end well Gene: If they do it right With enthusiasm, Ryoko jumped up from her chair and ran back into the house. She found her back pack, grabbed the bottle of sunblock, and made way her back towards the balcony. "Do you have it Ryoko?" Ryoko: I've got all of it and a bag of chips "Yep! Sure do." Ryoko confirmed, as she handed the bottle to Tenchi. She sat down on her chair. "You first." "Um, alright." Ryoko watched as Tenchi pulled off his white tank top and opened the sunblock bottle. He applied the solution on to his chest, arms, stomach and lower back, Aisha: Is there a solution for that? I mean look at him, he's a stick figure! Ryoko: (Looks at Washu) Washu: (sighs) I'll fix that too not realizing that the sunblock made his slim-but-built-body look even more sweaty and muscular. All: (Laugh their asses off) Tenchi: Hey! Ryoko pondered with surprise and awe. Ryoko: Wow mom, you work fast Washu: I do what I can (smiles) As Tenchi applied the lotion, he looked up and noticed that Ryoko was staring at him intensely. He started to tense nervously. "Uh, Ryoko, why are you staring at me like that?" Gene: Idiot! "I wasn't staring..." Ryoko denied but her face was clearly red. She quickly paused a few moments and gathered her thoughts for a quick recovery. Clayton: What do you see in him? Ryoko: Well all that muscle he was supposed to have had to go somewhere Tenchi: (Smiles proudly) "I was just enjoying the handsome scenery." She muttered in a confident way. "Can you do me a favor?" "I know, I know. Turn around so I can stop staring at you." Ryoko assumed. "No, no. Can you help me rub this sun block onto my back? I'm having a hard time applying this." Ryoko: Woo hoo! Aisha: Happy now Gene? Gene: Very "Sure!" Ryoko exclaimed. She stood up, walked over to Tenchi and placed herself next to him. Tenchi handed the container over to Ryoko and turned his back towards her. Ryoko smiled and opened the bottle. She poured a small amount into her hands and applied the solution onto Tenchi's back. Ryoko frowned a little and cleared her throat. Tenchi's back felt unusually stiff. "Tenchi, why are you so tense?" Ryoko inquired. "What do you mean? I'm not nervous." "I know that. What I meant was, why are your muscles so stiff?" Tenchi: I'm not touching that one Others: We know! "I guess it's because, I've been working out in the fields a lot for the past few days." "Oh, I see." Ryoko finally finished the application of the sun block onto Tenchi's back, instead of pulling her hands away, she decided to give Tenchi a massage. She rubbed her fingers down his back in a circular motion, allowing more blood circulation into his back muscles. Then she moved her hands to his shoulders and pressed rhythmically. Ryoko: I'll remember this later Washu: Me too Clayton and Tenchi: Uh oh "That feels very nice, Ryoko. Where did you learn how to do this?" "I picked it up a few day ago, while watching a TV show. Aisha: who let Noboyuki get the spice channel? Do you really like the way I'm massaging you?" "Yes...I like it!" Clayton: And thus he grows a spine Ryoko beamed wildly because of Tenchi's compliment, as a result, she unwittingly massaged his shoulders even harder. Her rough massaging caused a sharp sensation. Tenchi hissed out in pain. "Whoops! Sorry about that Tenchi." "It's alright, Ryoko. I really needed that massage. Thanks." He smiled, gratuitously. "Please don't stop." Ryoko: He finally said it! Tenchi: Well after hearing you scream it nine times an hour every hour since the wedding what do you expect? "My pleasure!" Ryoko said, then giggled. Ryoko massaged Tenchi for another five minutes and stopped. Tenchi turned around and faced her. "I guess it's your turn to put on the sun block." "It sure is!" Ryoko said excitedly as she pulled off her red tank top to reveal her blue bikini top. Gene: Damn, Toonami got their hands on this Ryoko poured the lotion onto her palms, Tenchi watched as Ryoko applied the sun block to her skin. Then she struggled to put the solution onto her back. "You need help with that Ryoko?" Ryoko: Yes! Ryoko was momentarily tempted by Tenchi but thought back to her agreement with Aeka. "No, that's alright. I can handle it." She replied. Aisha: Very noble "Are you sure? Looks like you're having trouble putting that on." "Yeah, I'm sure. Thanks for the offer." "Uhh. Okay." Tenchi thought. Washu: Pretty strange for you to offer Tenchi watched as Ryoko settled the rest of the sunblock, he couldn't help but admired how her blue bikini enhanced her attractiveness. All: Bullshit! Tenchi thought. Aisha: Thank you captain obvious Her body was covered in perspiration which made her feminine figure stand out even more. Before Ryoko noticed that Tenchi was staring at her, he quickly looked away and buried his thoughts. Tenchi: Ok, they're twenty paces past skull rock, under the fallen log Ryoko: (Draws the map) Ryoko wiped a sweat from her forehead and looked up at the sun. The sun was really getting hot and the wind wasn't helping at all. "Phew! Is it getting hot or what?" She commented. Her hair was matted from the moisture caused by her perspiration. She grabbed a nearby towel to dry off her sweat. Washu: Subtlety isn't this author's strong suit "So what's the first thing you want to do today, Ryoko?" Ryoko: The same thing I do every day Tenchi, try to take over the world Tenchi: What was that? Ryoko: Well a girl needs a hobby and this talking mouse made a great offer "Well, the first thing that comes to my mind is go shopping for a good shady hat." "Alright, sounds good to me. Then what?" Tenchi: Ryoko by now you would have said something! Ryoko: I know "Then we'll decide and just go with the flow for a while." "Ok. Let's go, shall we?" Ryoko grabbed her red tank top and wore it over her bikini. She followed Tenchi into the house. Tenchi had his shades on and camera over his shoulders, he was already at the front door. Tenchi decided to be a gentleman, he opened the door for Ryoko. Ryoko walked through the doorway and smiled at Tenchi thankfully. They both walked down the steps of the beach house and headed straight for the Naroda Beach Market Strip. All: It's not what you think Gene! Gene: (Pouts) The Fortune Teller, The Sun Hat Tenchi and Ryoko had reached the beach accessories shop in the middle of the Marketplace. The strip was located along side the beach resort's beach walk, it had ten separate stores in all. As they walked towards the accessories shop, Tenchi noticed an Arcade next door to the shop. Aisha: Oh look, Pacman Ryoko walked into the accessories shop first, Tenchi was about to follow her but something caught his attention. Passing by the arcade, Tenchi noticed a curious looking machine that stood next to the arcade's entranceway. The heart-shaped machine was completely crimson and stood on a black pedestal. A sign attached to the top of the machine read: "The Fortune Teller of Potential Love: For one yen piece, see if the one you have your sights on is your true love!". Clayton: My, this is convenient "Oh yeah, right!! That has got to be the hokiest claim I've ever read!" Tenchi said, skeptically. "Why are you putting down my machine like that!!" A craggy old voice yelled out from behind Tenchi. "You kids these days, have no faith in anything!" "Oh! Sorry about that rude comment." Tenchi apologized. He turned around and looked down to see an old bald man looking up at him with angry eyes. The old dwarf quickly extinguished his anger towards Tenchi and ruffled his bushy white moustache with his finger. Gene: You haven't seen six other guys just like me have you? "That's alright kid, you're not the first person to be skeptical of my machine." "Really? You mean other's have actually said the same thing?" "Of course!! They would voice their disbelief and just out of pure curiosity, they also tried it." "And what would happen?" Ryoko: They were disapointed "Only two things..." said the old man, holding up his two fingers. "One, they would remain as lovers. Two, they would discontinue their relationship." "Oh come on! Couples wouldn't break off their relationships because of a machine's opinion?" "Yes, they would. You'll be surprised." "Why?" "Call it a twist of fate. One minute a potential couple are looking at each other for possibilities of love, the next, they turn away from each other and march on home never setting sights on each other again. I've seen this happen thousands of times before. But on the good side, I've also seen relationships grow even stronger." "Now, that's really pushing it. I find that even harder to believe. People just don't make decisions solely based on a gimmick's answer." Washu: Wanna bet? "Oh they don't, eh? Then why don't you try it out yourself." The old man smirked. "What do you have to lose besides one yen piece?" Tenchi thought. "Well, kid? You think you're up to it?" The old man asked. "Okay, then. I'll try it." Tenchi reached into the pocket of his shorts and took out five separate yen pieces. Each for Sasami, Aeka, Mihoshi, Washu, and Ryoko. "Five Yen pieces? Very interesting! Planning to find out whether you can nab five girls, eh? I didn't know there's a sexual revolution going on right now. You kids are too much." Gene: Like Tenchi would even consider that! "Hey now! That's not what it looks like!" Tenchi said defensively. "I'm not like that at all!" "Yeah, right." The old man doubted bluntly. "All I can say about you kids is that you're all pumped full of hormones." Tenchi thought. Clayton: Just like his dad "Well, anyways." Tenchi grumbled, changing the subject. "How do I work your little gimmick here?" "It's quite simple, really. All you have to do is pop a coin into it's slot and type in the name of the girl. After that, the fortune teller will print out your answer." "Ok, sounds simple enough." "Well, kid. I would like to see what answer's in stored for you but I have to go run my arcade. See you around." "Uh, yeah. Thanks." Tenchi watched as the old man walked away and disappeared into the arcade. Then he cautiously looked around to see if Ryoko was anywhere nearby. Tenchi turned and focused his attention onto the machine. Tenchi: I wish I were big He popped in all five of his yen pieces into the machine's coin slot. A short and simple direction appeared on the machine's black screen. The fonts were colored red and the background was black. PLEASE TYPE IN YOUR NAME. Aisha: Seymre Butts Washu: Ben Duver Clayton: Hughe Jass Tenchi did as directed. PLEASE ENTER THE NAME/NAMES OF YOUR HEART'S POTENTIAL. Tenchi typed in five names. Then he checked if his spelling was correct. Washu Hakubi Sasami Jurai Aeka Jurai Mihoshi Kuramitsu Ryoko Hakubi PLEASE WAIT WHILE THE FORTUNE TELLER OF POTENTIAL LOVE, PROCESSES YOUR ANSWER. Tenchi waited a few moments for the machines response. He nervously looked at his watch and realized that five minutes had already passed since he left Ryoko alone. Ryoko: Bastard! All: (Point and laugh at Tenchi) The heart shaped Love tester started to print it's results onto a long receipt paper for Tenchi. The printing was taking very long for him, trying his patience. Finally it stopped printing and Tenchi pulled out the sheet from the love tester. Gene: (Reads) For a good time call... quick, hand me a pen He finally found the familiar names. He noticed that right next to each of the girls' names, appeared notes. He looked at the first name on the list: Washu Hakubi: This one is rather unique, but don't go for her. Too smart and too old. Washu: What! Clayton: (Holds her back) "Wow! The old man wasn't kidding! This thing actually works!" Tenchi said, excitedly. "Though I think the answers are kind of on the blunt side." Tenchi reads the next name on the list. Sasami Jurai: A very sweet person at heart, only one problem... She's too young. All: Definitely! He moved down to the third name on the list. Mihoshi Kuramitsu: Another sweet person, this time the right age. Not a good choice for you, she'll really test your patience if you choose to go steady with her. Aisha: Test it, break it, shove it up your nose Meanwhile inside the beach accessories shop, Ryoko was browsing around for about five or ten minutes, looking for the perfect hat to wear out in the hot sun. She noticed a round sun hat with a blue bow-tie ribbon sitting on top of a rack. She decided to try the hat on. Ryoko looked into the mirror and found that the hat fitted perfectly on her head. Gene: With all that hair? "I think this hat looks very nice on me. What do you think, Tenchi?" Ryoko turned around and realized that Tenchi was no where close to be seen. She thought and looked around the shop and couldn't find Tenchi. She looked through the shop windows and was relieved to find him. She placed the hat back onto the hat rack and headed back outside. Outside, Tenchi was nearly done with the list, now it was coming down to the two major active contenders; Aeka and Ryoko. He looked at Aeka's results. Aeka Jurai: She's nice, polite, and worthy of great love. Clayton: And insane She's not for you. Tenchi frowned. He turned his attention to the final name on the list, Ryoko. Ryoko Hakubi: Cherish every precious moment you have with her... Ryoko: Hooray! (Hugs Tenchi) Was the only word that came to Tenchi's mind. "Tenchiii! So that's where you been all this time!" Ryoko said as she walked towards him. "What are you doing out here?" Tenchi was momentarily startled by Ryoko and quickly hid the paper in his pocket. "R-Ryoko! I was just, uh, enjoying the weather!" "Well follow me, Tenchi! Tell me what you think of this hat I found." Ryoko said as she went over to grab Tenchi's hand. Ryoko's hand held Tenchi's and politely pulled him into the beach shop. Tenchi looked at her joyful gesture and smiled. "Alright." They both walked into the shop and Ryoko led Tenchi straight towards the hat rack. "I've found the perfect hat, Tenchi!" Ryoko said, happily. "You have?" Washu: Why wouldn't he believe her? "Yep it's over here on the hat rack..." They reached the hat rack and to Ryoko's dismay, the hat was gone. "Where's the hat, Ryoko?" Tenchi asked. "I could've sworn it was here just a minute ago!! I placed it here myself! Help me look for it!" Ryoko said frantically. "What does it look like?" "It's a round sun hat with a blue bow-tie ribbon." Gene: I'll get out an APB right away They split up in separate ways and looked around the shop. Tenchi searched the front end of the store and to his surprise, the old man from the arcade was at the register, in the process of buying Ryoko's hat. He quickly walked over to the old man and the cashier in time to interrupt their business transaction. "Uh, hello, sir! Remember me!" Tenchi: That's an order! "Why hello there, young man! Did your fortune come out the way you wanted?" "No, not exactly. But that's not why I'm here." "Oh? Then why are you bugging me?" "I wanted to speak to you about that hat you're about to buy." "Yeah? Well, forget it. I'm buying it for my granddaughter." "Could you by chance, hear me out first?" "No! Absolutely not! I'm getting this for my granddaughter and that's final!" Ryoko: Jerk "But..." "No buts!" the old man shouted. "Mmm, this rice cracker is so good." "What? Rice cracker?" Tenchi said, confused. "What are you talking about? You don't even have a thing in your mouth!" *** The Puppeteer Clayton: (As Jiminy Cricket) Mr. Gepeto! Meanwhile, back at the Masaki residence, Washu was eating a rice cracker while interacting with Tenchi on her dimensional computer. Ryoko: I knew it! Washu: Mwahahahaha! "Whoops! Kinda slipped there, Heh Heh. It looks like my new toy is working well, maybe too well. Ryoko and Tenchi don't even suspect a thing." Washu said and smiled. Then she typed in more commands to input more dialogue into the android's interaction with Tenchi. Aeka's Drenched Somewhere out in the nearby woods, Shoji was looking for the Masaki residence. Aisha: (As girl from Blair witch) You lost the map! How could you lose the $%&@# map? He had been wandering around the forest for about thirty minutes, he was about lose to patience. "Oh man!" Shoji fumed. "Now, where am I? This is so embarrassing! I can't believe I'm lost on my first day of guard duty! Those directions Yosho gave me were really bad!" Tenchi: Sure, blame the old man for your problems He trips over a fallen branch and falls flat on his face. "OOOUUCH! That smarts!" he complained out loudly. He stood up clumsily and kicked the fallen branch off to the side. Nearby at Funaho's tree, Aeka was alone, contemplating about Tenchi and Ryoko's date. Aeka thought sadly. Suddenly, Aeka's personal introspection is coldly interrupted by a pillar of water. Ryoko: Ha! "Aaah! I'm all wet!" Aeka screamed out. "Who's responsible for this!?" Aisha: Your personality? That's your parent's fault In front of Aeka, a human male in Jurian clothing was knee deep in the water of the moat that surrounded the Holy Tree. "I'm so sorry about that my lady! I slipped on a rock and fell into this blasted moat and..." Shoji apologized in mid-sentence and gasped in an air of shock. "I'm so sorry, Princess Aeka!" Shoji bowed down to Aeka in the most earnest manner he can muster up. Aeka ringed her kimono sleeves of moisture, while at the same time, regaining her composure. "It's alright, it happens. I can assume that you're my new body guard sent here by my father." "Yes, your highness. My name is Shoji Takazawa I am a Knight of the Royal Guard." "I'm pleased to meet you but before we can continue with the introductions, I would like to go back to the house and change into much dryer and suitable clothing." Gene: Oh don't do anything on our account "Yes, indeed. I'm sorry." They both headed back to the Masaki home not saying a word to each other. Shoji couldn't help but noticed the sad expression on the princess's face. Shoji thought. *** The Crazy Old Man Back at Naroda beach, Tenchi is still struggling to cut a deal with the old man before Ryoko finds out. "Come on!" Tenchi Begged. "No." "There's gotta be a way to cut a deal!" "Absolutely no deal. By the way, who's it for?" "It's for her." Tenchi said as he pointed at Ryoko, who's still searching for the hat. "Hmm. She looks beautiful. Not bad. You have taste, kid." The old man complemented. Ryoko: I love this story! Clayton: I thought you might "Then maybe, there's still a chance?" Tenchi hoped. "No!" "What!? Oh come on! Why not?" "Because I'm having fun!" Washu: Yeah! "What?! You can't be that cruel!" "Oh yes I can." Washu: Hey "You're sick, you know that." "Of course, I know that! That's why I'm having fun." Washu: Ok, this isn't funny any more *** Ryo-ohki to the Rescue! Back to the lab, Washu was typing up a storm, laughing out through out the whole conversation. "Oh man! I'm having too much fun!" Washu said joyfully. Unbeknownst to Washu, toddler Ryo-ohki happens to be standing behind. Gene: Apparently she took over for Mihoshi while she was gone The little toddler watched curiously as Washu typed joyfully onto the dimensional keyboard. "Meow?" Ryo-ohki said inquisitively. She frowned at Washu's meddling with Ryoko's date, then an idea popped into the little cabbit-humanoid's head. Tenchi: Way to go Ryo-oki! *** Back to Naroda Beach. Tenchi is still persisting with the old man. "Listen kid, I like you. I really like you but this is for my granddaughter." Washu: Daughter you idiot. Keep this up and I'll never have grandkids Aisha: Actually some people think Mihoshi is your granddaughter Washu: (Glares at her) "I know but Ryoko is just as important." "Oh? How's she more important than my granddaughter?" "I didn't say that! I said 'Ryoko is just AS important'." Tenchi retorted. "Oh I see now! You're trying to be smart with me, eh? Well let me tell you something, mister. MEOW! MEOW! MEOW!" Clayton: The only one cats know by name "Meow?!!" Tenchi said, confused. *** Back to the Lab. Ryoko: Holy lithium bat man! Tenchi: Wrong lab "Ryo-Ohki!!! Get away from here! Can't you see I'm busy!?!" Washu yelled at the cabbit. But the toddler, intentionally ignored Washu and kept on typing onto the keyboard. Ryo-ohki loves to help Tenchi in anyway possible. Tenchi: when we get home she gets two basket of carrots! "Oh great! Now look what you've done! The android won't stop acting like a cat! The commands are locked!! AARRGH!" Washu screamed. *** Back to Naroda Beach. The longer Tenchi stood there and watched the old man babble on, things just keep getting stranger and stranger. The old man was on the floor licking his hand and scratching the back of his head with his leg. "What are you doing?!" Tenchi asked. "Can't you see that-MEOW, I'm uhh-MEOW, Cleaning myself?" "But you're acting like a cat!" "Of course, I'm acting like a cat! Meow! Meow! It's much more efficient this way! Don't you think?" "Uhh. Right." Ryoko finally noticed the commotion, she looked to the front of the store and found Tenchi staring down at an old man. "What's all that cat noise coming from?" Ryoko inquired. *** Back to the lab, Washu and Ryo-ohki are pushing and shoving each other, fighting over the keyboard, trying to regain control of the android. "Ryo-ohki! Stop it! You're going to get Tenchi suspicious!" Clayton: Ya think? "Meow! Meow!" The toddler-cabbit said angrily. "Alright fine! Sheesh! You win! I'm going to stop toying with him!" "MEOW! MEOW! MEOW!" the cabbit said victoriously. Ryoko: (As Mills Lane) The winner! Washu grumbled as she typed in her last commands for the android. *** Back to Naroda. Ryoko walked up to Tenchi from behind and looked down at the old man who was now crawling around the floor on all four. Ryoko: How cute! Can we keep him? Tenchi: Sorry but he has to be put down Washu: Hey! "What's wrong with him?" Ryoko asked. Gene: (Looks at Washu) What isn't? Ribbit "I don't know, this guy is really crazy. One minute he's acting normal the next, he's acting like a cat." The old man quickly jumped up and hands the sun hat Tenchi. "Uhh. You win! MEOW! Here you go! Here's the Hat! MEOW!" "Thank you!" Tenchi gratified. "Well gotta go! MEOW! Bye-bye!" The old man quickly exits the store on his hands and knees. "Uhh. Bye." Tenchi said, wearily. Then he turned his attentions toward the store clerk and buys the hat. He faced Ryoko and handed her the sun hat. "Here you go, Ryoko. I think this is the hat you mentioned to me about." Tenchi: It had better be Ryoko gasped in excitement when she received the hat from Tenchi. Gene: Doesn't take much does it? Ryoko: Shut up "Thank you, Tenchi! Here let me try it on. Tell me what you think." Ryoko placed the sun hat on her head. Tenchi looked at her carefully and smiled. He noticed that the hat enhanced her yellow eyes. "The hat fits you perfectly, Ryoko. Actually makes you look lovely and beautiful." Tenchi thought. Ryoko: You'd better have! Tenchi: I did, I swear! "Really?! You mean it?" Ryoko asked excitedly. Tenchi nodded yes. "Thank you, Tenchi!" Ryoko laughed happily and hugged Tenchi in a non-aggressive manner. Gene: D'oh! "Don't mention it, Ryoko. Come on let's go outside so I can take a picture of you in your new hat." Tenchi: Washu? Washu: I'm working on it "Alright." Ryoko complied happily. They both exited the store and looked around for a place to shoot Ryoko's photo. As they looked around for spot, Tenchi could not help thinking about his results from the fortune teller. Tenchi thought. Aisha: Seemed pretty straight forward to me [Cherish every precious moment you have with her...] The words kept beckoning to Tenchi every time he thought about it. You're Going to hate me for this, To Be Continued... All: Curse your mangy hide and the horses you rode in on! Author's Notes 2nd: I know I know, this is a somewhat abrupt and cheesy way to get more readers. All: Yup I'm doing this to keep my mind on track, so that way I won't screw up on the next chapter. Besides, the public demands more, so I gave them more. But not to worry, Naroda Beach Pt.2 is nearly halfway through. It'll focus even more on the date, Pt.1 was just to serve as a good set up. Gene: And boy were we set up And I won't end my Fanfics like this ever again... I hope. Washu: How many parts are there to this? Clayton: Four Washu: (Looks at the Author) Liar! Tenchi Muyo: Ryoko's Love...Alpha! Chapter 3A: Naroda Beach Pt.2 By Long T. Tran Disclaimer: I don't own these characters, AIC/Pioneer owns them. I don't intend to make money off this because I don't want to get a lawsuit. I'm too poor for that. But this is my original story concept, so don't plagiarize! Author's note: I apologize for the long wait, as you can see, this is by far my biggest chapter. I hope it was worth the wait for you folks. Clayton and Washu: (Playing Chess) Sorry for the suspense and metal torture I might've caused. Aisha: Did you have to play Kiss albums? -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Safe Haven Naroda Beach; blanketed under the cover of the night sky, the beach house stood silent near the water's edge. Tenchi carried Ryoko in his arms from Washu's portable boat. Ryoko was barely conscious and Tenchi was still frantic from the traumatic experience that occurred. Ryoko: He's good but... The day went by too well to end up like this! He thought with agitation. Conveying Ryoko up the flight of stairs of the elevated beach house, the events which led up to the incident returned to Tenchi... Ice Cream! Aisha: You scream! Washu: We all scream! All: Aaaaahhhhhh! "Good! Good! Do some more of those poses!" Tenchi directed excitedly. The cool waters of Naroda beach flowed around Tenchi's feet as he took pictures of Ryoko in her newly owned sun hat. Ryoko joyfully struck her different poses at every click of the camera, having a lot of fun. She mimicked the moves of professional supermodels, sometimes, she would let loose and look silly intentionally, which made Tenchi lose control and laugh. Tenchi: Must... not... laugh Meanwhile, a few hundred feet away, a small crowd of the beach's young women were gathered around an object of their fascination. Gene: Girls who aren't all over him? Wow "Would you look at that hunk!!" said a blonde. "Yah! Look at those muscles! And that washboard muscles! Sigh!" A girl replied. "What a body! What hunk! He's sooo cute!" Said a brunette. The crowd of women parted allowing Naroda's beach hunk to get up from his posing positions. He stood up and grabbed a towel from a nearby bench press and wiped away all the sweat from his rippling chest. Gene: He looks like Fred's fianc'e Aisha: True. Now these are muscles (Flexes) The women swooned and sighed in response. The Iron man obviously loved his status. As the ladies fainted, the hunk looked over to the water's edge and noticed a girl with cyan hair running along the beach doing some poses in front of a spiky-haired guy with a camera. Ryoko: When did Vegita show up? The Herculean strongman thought excitedly. Washu: Oh no, not Hercule from DBZ! After the half hour photo session, Ryoko and Tenchi sat down at the water's edge trying to figure what to do next. Tenchi placed the camera into his pocket. "You really like taking pictures of me, don't you?" Ryoko asked. "Uhh...,I guess you can say that. I'm really getting into this, it helps me relax." Washu: You know I'll bet Gene is related to Tenchi and Noboyuki Gene: Ya think? "Well, that's nice to hear. So, what do you want to do next?" "Hmm. I really don't know." Tenchi said. He looked across the sandy beach and noticed an ice cream stand. "The only thing that comes to mind is getting some ice cream to cool down a bit." "I'm feeling a little warm, myself. Sounds good to me." Ryoko agreed. "Besides, maybe some ice cream will help us decide on our next move. Food for thought." "I couldn't agree more." "Okay, then. You stay here while I go fetch some. What would you like?" Tenchi, asked. "I just want a plain vanilla ice cream cone." Ryoko: I prefer chocolate "Alright, I'll be back." Tenchi stood up and walked off to go buy the ice cream. Ryoko watched as he walked away, as soon as Tenchi was gone, Ryoko smiled happily to herself. Ryoko: Free at last! Washu: As opposed to the Tenchi I'm growing in my lab Ryoko thought as she tipped her sun hat to make it more comfortable. As Ryoko waited for Tenchi's return, she watched little children swam and played in the water. Suddenly, she was covered by another person's shadow. Clayton: (As Peter Pan) Have you seen my shadow? "Excuse me." Said a strong voice. "Yes?" Ryoko responded. Ryoko looked up to find, possibly, Naroda beach's most muscular man. To Ryoko's awe, he had huge arms, a thick barrel neck, pecks that resembled concrete slabs, and legs that could support steel beams. The iron man had a full mane of black hair, his skin was fair bronze and his eyes were golden brown. Gene: It is Hercule! "I couldn't help but notice how natural you looked, acting like a supermodel a few minutes ago. You looked absolutely stunning." "Thank you." Ryoko said in her most gracious manner, trying not let the stranger annoy her. "And what is your name?" "My name's Ryoko. Yours?" "My name is Goro." "Well, nice to meet you, Goro. I'd love to chat with you but I'm currently enjoying my date with somebody else." Ryoko said bluntly. "Oh. You mean THAT little guy who's pointing his camera at you?" Goro asked while pointing at Tenchi. All: (Cover their eyes) This isn't gonna be pretty "Yes. Him." Ryoko confirmed, frowning at Goro's insult of Tenchi. Meanwhile, it was really hot and Tenchi anticipated the taste of the ice-cold-sweet-taste of vanilla ice cream. [Cherish every precious moment you have with her...] those strange words just kept lingering in his mind every time he thought about the Fortune telling Machine. It was finally Tenchi's turn to order. He walked up to the window and found that the clerk was one of his old school mates (from the currently undergoing reconstruction of Okayama High School). A schoolmate that he can never forget, the guy was fat, very thick lips, thick octangular glasses, and short dandruffy hair. "Tenchi? Tenchi Masaki?!" "Amagasaki? Is that you?" Gene: Oh not this guy "It sure is! How are you?" "I'm doing fine and you?" "Just working and saving up some money. Say, I noticed that girl you're with. She looks pretty hot! Is she your girlfriend?" "Well, no. Not exactly." Ryoko: I'm his wife "Then what? Your sister?" "No, no! She's uh,...just a friend." "Oh, just a friend. Well then, in that case, could you introduce me to her?" "What?" Tenchi started. "You said she's just a friend, right? I find her very attractive." Amagasaki said, very interested. Washu: Like she'd go out with him Unaware of his facial expression, Tenchi frowned slightly at Amagasaki's request. "I would really like to but I can't." Tenchi replied. "You see, she's not my girlfriend, family, or just a friend." "Oh? What do you mean?" "Well, um, she's my date. And I'm trying to get to know her a little better. You understand that, right?" "Oh sure! I'm so sorry about that!" "It's okay, it happens." Aisha: How would he know? "What would you like to order?" Amagasaki said, changing the issue. "Just two cones of vanilla ice cream." "Coming right up!" Amagasaki carried out Tenchi's order quickly and handed the ice cream cones to Tenchi. "Wow! Thanks! How much?" Tenchi asked as he licked his ice cream. "That'll be 200 yen." Tenchi paid the clerk. Suddenly, something in the back of his mind brought back the words of the Fortune telling machine... "Cherish every precious moment you have with her". Tenchi looked over qt Ryoko's direction and noticed a huge, muscular man talking to her. "Uh oh." Amagasaki said uneasily. "Uh oh, what?" Tenchi asked. "You better watch out, Tenchi. That guy's hitting on your date." "You know him?" "No but I've seen him work his charm. He would hit on some girl regardless, single or not, and then later on, he would break the poor girl's heart." "Is that so..." Tenchi said, not having realized that he was frowning even more. Tenchi: Ok, I'll admit I'm mad Goro "So...,Ryoko." Goro addressed, showing off his muscles in different Iron-man poses. "What." Ryoko replied, growing more annoyed of the strongman's presence. "What do you see in that little runt?" Gene: Good question "Excuse me?" "You know, that little runt you're with. What's his name?" "Tenchi." Ryoko said, growling. "Oh right, Tenchi." Goro said smugly, rippling his pecks at Ryoko. Ryoko rolled her eyes and finally lost her patience. "Look, Goro. I am really getting annoyed here. Why don't you Amscre', ok?" Clayton: I think in pig latin it's am-scray Ryoko: Ut-shay up-ay "You're telling me? The 'Great Goro' to scram?" "That's right." "How can you say something like that? No girl can't resist this!" Goro said, pointing at his abs and muscular features. Washu, Aisha, and Ryoko: (Snicker) "I can." Ryoko replied coldly. Ryoko looked over and noticed Tenchi returning. Ryoko was relieved to see Tenchi, she smiled. She turned and looked up at Goro. "Here comes my Tenchi." Ryoko warned. "Oh he is, is he?" Goro said confidently and turned around. Tenchi arrived holding to two ice cream cones in his hands, he walked passed Goro and stood in front of Ryoko. "Here you go, Ryoko." Tenchi said, handing Ryoko her ice cream cone. Ryoko happily received the cool treat and proceeded to lick off the vanilla. Gene: (Starts to say something) Aisha: (Gags him) Goro cleared his throat and tapped Tenchi's shoulders. "Excuse me." Tenchi: You are excused, just cut down on the beans Tenchi turned around and faced Goro. "Yes? Can I help you?" "Yes, you can. By handing me over your pretty little date." Ryoko sighed in an exasperated manner, she continued on with her ice cream. "E-excuse me?" Tenchi said, nervously. "Yeah, you heard me. I'm taking your date." Tenchi: Why would I be worried? Clayton: Good question. You can slice a spaceship in half after all Tenchi glanced over to Ryoko with a confused looked, trying to figure out the muscle man's aggressive intentions. In response to Tenchi's silent question, Ryoko shrugged. "Pardon me but, uh...I didn't catch your name." "My name's Goro and I am THE hunk of this beach." Goro said with full bravado. "Uh, right." Tenchi replied uneasily Meanwhile, behind the ice cream stand, the funny old man from the Beach Accessories shop watched as events unfolded between Goro and Tenchi. *** Washu Washu: Yes? Washu watched through the eyes of her invention with full attentiveness. Ryo- ohki stood behind her and watched. For nearly half an hour after the "Cat-Man" incident, both had been quiet to each other, having agreed not to intervene on Ryoko's date. The "Cat-Man" incident nearly exposed Washu's invention and things could've escalated. Fortunately for Washu, things didn't. Ryoko: You got lucky But as Washu and Ryo-ohki were about to leave Tenchi and Ryoko alone, a huge man walked up to Ryoko. After another few minutes, the bigger man started to harass Tenchi. Washu and Ryo-ohki both frowned at the computer screen. "Ryo-ohki, we've got to do something about that big lug. Washu: Quick, hand me my spinach! I don't know about you but I'm willing to bend the rules of our agreement." "Miya." Ryo-ohki agreed. "How should we take care of this big lug, hmm?" The humanoid cabbit held her little chin and thought for a moment. After a long silent minute, an idea finally came to mind. Immediately, Ryo-ohki transferred her idea to Washu through their mental link. "That's a cool idea! Why didn't I think of that?" Washu exclaimed. Washu typed onto her holocomputer at lightning speed. Changing the form, size and shape of the android. Ryo-ohki shrugged and sent an insulting thought to Washu. Washu: Why that ungrateful little monster! "Oh hush!" Washu barked. "Don't let it go to your head that you thought of it first!" Ryo-ohki beamed happily as Washu continued on typing. Ryoko: That's my sister! Aeka's New Bodyguard Meanwhile, back to the blue-roofed Masaki home, Aeka and Shoji had just finished changing into much drier clothing. Both sat across from each other from the living room area, waiting on Sasami to bring out some tea. All day long, the thought of Tenchi and Ryoko being together for one day worried Aeka deeply. As if things weren't enough, her father had to send in a new body guard to protect her. Aeka studied Shoji for a couple of long, silent minutes trying to figure out her father's motives on why he replaced her guardians with Shoji. Gene: To get you laid Clayton: Asuza is a very involved father Not wanting to make Shoji feel like a spy under an interrogating light, she decided to start a simple, friendly question and answer conversation. "Pardon me for being cold to you a little bit earlier." "No not at all, your highness. I deserved that treatment, after all, I did get you drenched and I apologize for that clumsy display." "It is alright. It is in the past, no need for any further apologies." Aeka assured. "As you wish." Shoji said with relief. Aeka smiled softly. "I did not quite catch your full name, what was it again?" "My name is Shoji Takazawa of the Juraian Royal Guard." "Takazawa?" Aeka said inquisitively. The name seemed familiar to her somehow. Clayton: Backwards it sounds like 'I was a cat' "Yes." Shoji replied. "Hmm..." Aeka sounded as she thought through her memory. As Aeka dug through her memories, Sasami walked out of the kitchen carrying a tray with tea and crackers, ready to serve. Gene: Did they chain her to the stove or what? "Here you go!" Said the cheerful blue-haired princess. Shoji had an awe-struck look on his face. "Princess Sasami, you're serving tea and crackers?" "Yes? Is there a problem?" Asked the young one. Ryoko: Yes! We ordered gram crackers! Twenty lashes and three more days in the kitchen "No, none at all. I just find it very interesting that a Juraian noble is serving and cooking." "Oh! Well, I don't mind doing it. I find it a very fulfilling experience." Tenchi: We have trained her well "Fulfilling? How so?" Shoji inquired curiously. "I enjoy cooking mainly because it feels good. I don't know. It's just the fact that I'm just so darn good at it!" "Very fascinating." "You think so?" Asked Sasami. "Yes, of course it is! It's not everyday a Juraian noble decided to serve food just for the sheer joy of it. This shows very good character." "Thanks Shoji!" Sasami blushed. "My pleasure, your highness." At that very moment, Yosho walked into the house. He stepped over to the living room area. Shoji stood up from the sofa and bowed his head to greet the old man. "Greetings, Prince Yosho." "No need for formalities, Shoji. You're on earth now and I don't want the locals seeing a young man, like yourself, bowing to a Shinto priest in such a formal manner." "Indeed. As you wish." Clayton: The people from the Princess Bride are on the phone with a complaint "So how do you like your new assignment, Shoji?" "As far as I know, I think it's very unusual." Yosho lifted an eyebrow and smiled. "Oh? How so?" "It's just so laid-back back on this planet." "Do you find this unsettling?" Asked Yosho. "Oh no!" Shoji replied immediately. "I find that the countryside here is very beautiful and it rivals that of Jurai's. And for the sheer fact of knowing that the presiding Juraian nobles are happy to be here." "You are a very perceptive one, Shoji." Yosho complimented. "Yeah, well, anyhow. That's basically my thoughts." As the two Juraian males conversed, Aeka watched silently. She found herself distracted from thinking about Tenchi and started to focus her full attention onto Shoji. Aisha: That's good Aeka thought. Ryoko: So, she likes him cause he looks like Tenchi Washu: Bet Mihoshi gets him Aeka smiled at the thought. She shivered at the thought of Seriyou. All: (Shiver with her) Sasami tugged at Aeka's sleeve. "Psst! Hey Aeka." Sasami whispered. "What is it, Sasami?" "Don't you think he's cute?" "Sasami!" Aeka whispered back, loudly. Ryoko: I love that kid! "What?" Sasami asked innocently. "Do not ask me that sort of question! This is neither the time nor place!" Aisha: When is? "Alright. Then I'll just ask you later." Aeka sighed exasperatedly. Both girls focused their attentions on Yosho and Shoji. "You are an interesting character, Shoji." "Thank you. Your words are too kind." "You're welcome." Yosho responded. Then he had an idea. "By the way, since I'm responsible for Aeka's safety, I have to make sure if you're qualified enough to protect her." "I understand your concern for the crown princess's well-being. How do you propose to test my capabilities?" Tenchi: Multiple choice "I want to see how well you hold out against me." The trio were stunned by Yosho's proposal. Gene: (As Shoji) I don't swing that way sir Shoji regained his composure. "You mean to tell me that you want to challenge me in a mock duel?" Clayton: PLEASE be challenging him to a dual "That is correct." Replied Yosho. All: Hooray! "Meet me at the shrine in half an hour. I look forward in seeing what you're capable of." All: -_- "My sentiment's exact." Shoji said confidently. *** Goro the Big Lug "Listen, buddy, get it through your thick skull!" Ryoko yelled. "I don't want to go anywhere with you! So quit bugging us!" "Don't sweat it babe. I'll liberate you from this little runt in no time." Said Goro. "Who're you calling a RUNT?!" Tenchi asked, finally losing patience, his fists clenched tightly. "I don't see any other runt around here, do you?" Goro replied, poking his finger on Tenchi. Ryoko: I thought I saw Vegita earlier "Or do you want to settle this in a man's way?" Goro grinned, cracking his knuckles. "You leave Tenchi alone!!" Ryoko barked, jumped and stood between Tenchi and Goro. "You're not laying a finger on him!" "Stand aside, I'll release you of this burden!" Goro demanded. "Burden?!?" Tenchi yelled, quizzically. "Why you, stuck up, arrogant, chauvenistic..." Tenchi's noticed his explosive remarks All: (Snort) Clayton: Oh yeah, he's an animal Gene: Nevt he'll call him a doody head and realized his verbal mistake, too late. Tenchi: How do you yell quizically? "Oh good! Those sounded like fightin' words!" Goro said excitedly, flexing himself, warming up for a brawl. He steps closer to Tenchi but Ryoko pushes Goro back away. "If you're going to hurt him! You're going to have to get through me first!" Ryoko proclaimed. "Ryoko, let's not get into this any deeper than it should be. Let's just leave him." Tenchi said, calmly. Tenchi: We're going home to mother's! Washu: (Grins) Ryoko: On second thought make that father's He grabbed Ryoko's right arm and gently pulled her away from Goro. "Oh no you don't!" Goro yelled out. He grabbed Ryoko's left arm and started pulling. "You're not getting her that easily!" Clayton: Make a wish Ryoko: Hey! "Hey! Let go of me, you idiot!" Ryoko screamed. "Tenchi!" "Let go of her! Can't you see that she doesn't want to go with you?" Tenchi said, pulling on Ryoko. "She's mine, I tell you!" Goro replied as he tugged. "Tenchiii!" "I'm doing the best I can!" "You two stop pulling on me!! This is really getting painful!" Ryoko cringed. "No way! I'm not giving up until I have her!!" Goro affirmed. "Let her go! You're hurting her!!" Tenchi yelled, pulling on Ryoko. "Ouch ouch ouch! Stop it, the both of you! You're tearing me apart!" Tenchi: Now you know how it feels Throughout this ordeal, Ryoko realized something about Tenchi. Ryoko thought and frowned. Ryoko: Sorry The two continued pulling. Suddenly, a hypnotic, sexy female voice is heard. "Boys, boys, no need to fight over one girl. I'm here." Washu: Mom to the rescue! Tenchi, Ryoko, and Goro suddenly stopped and turned their heads towards the mysterious voice. A tall, silky brunette, perfect tan skin, full red lips, perfect curvy-athletic figure, and last but not least the young lady was a white foreigner. Gene: Washu, I'l buy that thing if you'll sell it. Melfina has a birthday coming up Tenchi, Goro, and Ryoko stopped their bickering and were stunned by the beauty of the new girl. Ryoko was dropped to the sandy ground. The brunette swept her hair back and walked towards the Trio. Tenchi quickly swayed his attention from the girl and helped Ryoko to her feet. Gene: Decent of him "My name is Venus, Venus de Milo. Miya." Washu: What the hell was I thinking? Goro straightened up and regained his composure. He brushed back his black mane of hair and cleared his throat. "My name is Goro, uh, Goro de Marco." Goro said and showed off his sparkly row of teeth. Tenchi: He needs a dentist "Goro, eh?" Venus said with curious interest. She walked towards Goro. Seizing the opportunity, Ryoko turned, faced Tenchi and pointed towards the ocean waters. Tenchi nodded back understanding Ryoko's gesture. Suddenly, both jumped to their feet and sprinted towards the waves. Goro saw Tenchi and Ryoko ran off through the corner of his eye, he ignored the two and focused his full attention onto the more beautiful girl Tenchi: That's a matter of opinion named Venus. "So, Venus." Goro smirked. "Now that we're both alone. How should we better acquaint ourselves?" "You want to know? Miya." Venus asked, seductively. She stepped closer to Goro and ran her fingers down his chest. "Oh yeah." "Then I'll show you..." She said. Venus stepped away from Goro and walked towards a secluded back area of the seaside hotel. "Follow me." She blew a kiss at Goro. Goro happily obliged Venus's enticing invitation. After a few minutes of following Venus, they finally reached the seclusion. The seclusion was perfect, it's away from any outside contact and they could do anything they wanted. Venus turned and faced Goro with yearning eyes. "So, what now?" Goro asked sheepishly. "What do you think, you fool?! Kiss me!! Miya!" Venus exclaimed and ran towards Goro's open arms. They embraced each other and kissed each other full force. Gene: The force is strong in this one Clayton: (As Yoda) Can not teach this one. IQ of 30 has he Goro closed his eyes letting all his senses focus on Venus's working lips. He held her tighter and kissed like he never kissed before. After a long sensual moment, he opened his eyes, his eyes bulged out of their sockets. The site he saw was absolutely shocking! Instead of finding himself kissing a beautiful foreign girl in his embrace, he was lip-locking with an old man! An old, decrepit, short, and wrinkled up man was kissing him. Gene: On second thought (As Obi-wan) This is not the drpoid I'm looking for "AAAAAAAAAAHHHH!" Goro screamed, dropping the old man to the ground. Goro started to spit and gag all over the sands. "What the-?! Where's Venus? What have you done to her?" "Oh, Venus? Miya! She's gone. She wanted me to take care of you. Miya!" All: Ew! "What? Where's Venus?" Goro asked again while gagging. "Miya! Geez, you are thick-headed, aren't you? Miya! Oh well, makes it easier for me." Said, the old man. "Miya!" "W-What do you mean?" Goro said nervously. "Miya? Why are you meowing like a cat?" The old man did not answer, he suddenly turned into a mass of green gelatin and enveloped Goro. Aisha: Theres always room for Jello Goro struggled vainly for several minutes but finally gave out. The green gelatin flashed bright red and released Goro. The green gelatin reverted back to the form of an old man. The old man clapped and rubbed his hands together, content with the results. "There! All finished! No more kitty-cat bugs in the system! I'm cured!" Said the old man. Looking down at Goro, who was now crawling around the sands on all fours like a cat. "Miya! Miya! Miya!" Goro meowed. "I am a genius!" "Miya!" Goro replied. Then he stopped crawling, he sat on one spot, lifted his leg and started licking his underside. "Well, looks like my work here is done. Switching off..." *** Washu and Ryo-ohki "Yes! Alright! We've succeeded, Ryo-ohki!" Washu said, giving the toddler a high five. "Miya!! Miya!" The cabbit toddler exclaimed. Ryoko: (Translates) I am not a cat! "Okay, we've had enough fun for one day." "Miya..." Ryo-ohki said disappointedly. "I know I know. Let's just leave the two of them alone, alright? We've helped them enough, they're on their own from this point on." "Miya! Miya?" Ryo-ohki asked with a hint of concern for Goro. "Don't be silly! I'm not that cruel! Don't worry, the big lug will come out of that cat trance in a day or two." Ryoko: Unfortunately a little girl found him and had him neutered "Miya!" Washu switched her holocomputer off and the screen disappeared. Washu stood up from her chair and stretched. "Let's go see what the others are up to." "Miya! Miya!" Ryo-ohki said happily. The toddler jumped up with a loud pop, and in mid-air, suddenly turned into a cabbit. The cabbit landed on top of Washu's head. "Heh heh, Cute little furrball." Washu smiled, patted the cabbit, and made her way towards the exit door. Shoji Vs. Yosho Clayton: Mortal Kombat! Shoji, Sasami, and Aeka finally arrived at the front of the shrine. Yosho stood patiently, ready and waiting. Shoji stepped away from Aeka and Sasami and stood three yards in front of Yosho. Aeka and Sasami sat at the steps of the entrance of the Shrine. "Are you ready, Shoji?" Asked, Yosho. "I'm ready." "Good, we'll duel with these." Yosho said, he threw a bokken over to Shoji. Shoji caught the bokken with his left hand and immediately postured into a Juraian ready stance. "What are the rules?" "The rule is: First one to successfully strike one blow to the other's chest, wins. No rematches, 'three out of fives', or anything likewise." "Understood." "Let's begin." Yosho said and stood ready for the duel. Silence passed over, during this, Shoji knew exactly what Yosho was capable of as a Swordsman. Before Yosho left Jurai, seven hundred years ago, he was considered the best and greatest swordsman on Jurai. Shoji would hear stories about Yosho's powerful skills and how he would devoutly practice his techniques daily. Shoji respected Yosho as a swordsman and what he stood for, at the time of Ryoko's Attack on Jurai, Shoji was merely a young Royal Squire in his fourth year of training. In a way, Yosho was his role model and the pinnacle of all the values Shoji believed in. Aisha: All of which he betrayed when he pretended to be old, turned his fianc'e on his grandson, and let everyone else go fight Kagato instead of him And now, he had the chance to see how well his skills will hold out against Yosho's, a chance to see how years of training and experience has shaped him as a swordsman. As Yosho waited for Shoji's first strike, Yosho thought about the news that surrounded Aeka's new bodyguard. A few days ago, after having received the message from the king of Jurai that Shoji was to be Aeka's new Guardian, Yosho decided to do a little research on Shoji's past. Courtesy of Washu's hyper channel communicator that was installed into his room. Yosho was able to talk to one of his closest friends from childhood, Shoji's superior commander. The talk with his long-time friend, Naoju, proved to be most interesting. Shoji had served in the Royal Guard for the past several hundred years and had shown great potential as a swordsman. From what Naoju had told Yosho, Shoji had been through quite a lot in his service and has attained a great amount of experience. Yosho considered these points and decided to be extra cautious. After a silent minute, Yosho and Shoji charged each other at a blinding speed. Running and swinging his bokken, Shoji passed Yosho and missed. He immediately turned around and deflected Yosho's strike. Shoji back-flipped over Yosho's head and landed behind him and swung. Not fast enough, Shoji missed Yosho again, Yosho had leapt forward to avoid Shoji's strike. As the two Juraian males fought on, Aeka and Sasami watched with great interest. Aeka watched as her older brother charged Shoji, she was grateful that the duel helped her distract her thoughts away from Tenchi. But then again, she thought about Tenchi anyways, for some odd reason she knew that things were going to change between Tenchi, Ryoko, and herself. Aeka felt extreme anxiety, not wanting to know on how things will turn out after their date. Ryoko: I think she already guessed Aeka buried the frightening thought and continued on watching the duel to distract herself away from thinking about Tenchi and Ryoko. She refocused her attention back to the duel. "So this is where you girls are." Washu said, sitting down next Aeka. "Oh, hello Washu." Aeka greeted. "Hi, Washu!" Sasami greeted happily. Ryo-ohki hopped from Washu's head and onto Sasami's. The little princess welcomed the cabbit with a giggle. "Well! I'm going to go make some lunch!" Sasami jumped up from the steps and ran towards the house. "I'll be back with the food!" And ran off with Ryo-ohki enjoying her ride, atop the princess's head. "See you later, Sasami!" Washu yelled out and looked over and noticed the duel between Yosho and a person she had never seen before. "Hey, who's the new guy?" Washu, asked. "He is my new guardian." Aeka answered. "New guardian?" Washu inquired further. "Since when?" "Since this morning, my father has reassigned Azaka and Kamadake to protect Sasami and they were replaced by Shoji." "Hmm. Really..." Washu said curiously. "Yes. Really." "I wonder why my father would do that in the first place. The two guardians did a sufficient job with my protection. Why would he suddenly replace them?" "Gee, I wonder why, Aeka..." Washu said sarcastically. Gene: Atleast someone figured it out Ryoko: Do you have to ask? Washu thought for a second, she checked over to Aeka. Washu looked over to Shoji and peered back to Aeka, the genius noticed that the princess was paying extra close attention to the fight. Washu thought and smiled deviously. Clayton: I think that's pretty obvious With a simple whim of her hand, she brought out her holocomputer and started to type away. Aeka noticed and faced Washu with a curious look. "Washu, what are you doing?" "Oh I'm just doing some miscellaneous study. I just wanted to collect some data on Juraian biological fighting mechanics, you know, the study of movement." "Oh, I see." Aeka said with fascination. "You never seem to stop studying, do you?" Washu: All work and no play makes Washu a dull girl... "Nope." "I figure you would say that. You never-ending bookworm." Aeka teased and smiled. Washu ignored Aeka and continued on studying the two fighters. The holocomputer lit up with a flurry of information. Washu beamed at the newly acquired data. "Very interesting..." Washu said contently. Aeka sighed. "You are hopeless." Washu: Look whos talking *** Oh! Hello, Dolphin! After ditching Goro at the shore, Tenchi and Ryoko swam around in clear blue waters for a few minutes. Already putting Goro way back in the back of their thoughts, both laughed and enjoyed the cool refreshing ocean waters. They were about twenty five yards away from the shore, both stopped swimming and stood up. Ryoko stood next to Tenchi, to their surprise, the water was only chest-level. Ryoko still wore her red tank top and jean shorts over her bikini. Tenchi was just wearing his swimming trunks. Annoyed by the weight of her wet clothing, Ryoko took off her shorts and red tank top to expose her swim attire. "Ah! Now that feels better!" Ryoko said with relief and threw her clothes aside into the water. Tenchi noticed Ryoko's disregard for her clothing. "Uhh..., Ryoko. Won't you need to change into those after we finish swimming?" Ryoko: I hope not! "Nah, no need. Aisha: Stop saying that! I have another pair back at the beach house." Ryoko looked over to the shore of the beach and found that Goro wasn't there. "Phew! Thank god he's gone!" She exclaimed. "Tell me about it. That was the first time anybody knew how to push my buttons. That guy was so full of himself." Tenchi said. Ryoko nodded in agreement. Then, she heard a peculiar squeaking sound coming from behind, Ryoko turned around and was suddenly overtaken by excitement. She walked towards the source of the sound. Leaving Tenchi behind. "Well, that's the end of him. I sure hope he doesn't bother us anymore. So what do you want to do now, Ryoko?" Tenchi asked. He turned to his left side to face Ryoko but she wasn't near. "Uh..., Ryoko?" Ryoko: Right here Tenchi scanned around for her in the surrounding waters. Ryoko was no where to be seen. "Ryokooo! Where are youuu?" Tenchi inquired. Through the corner of his eye he briefly saw a blur pass beside him. "What the...?" Suddenly, Tenchi was enveloped by a pillar of water. He found himself briefly underwater, Tenchi quickly jumped up and broke the water surface. He spat out the briny contents of the seawater and heard Ryoko's laughter. "YIPPEEEE!" Ryoko cheered happily, as she held on to the dolphin's flipper, riding through the water. Gene: (sings) They call him Flipper... "R-Ryoko?" "Look at me, Tenchi! I'm riding a shark!" "That's not a shark!" Tenchi laughed as he watched the blue dolphin pulled Ryoko above the water's surface. Ryoko freed herself from the dolphin and swam towards Tenchi. "Then what was that, I was riding on?" Aisha: Goro "That's a dolphin. Blue-nosed, I think." Tenchi: You mean bottle nose? "Oh yeah, that's right. A shark's a little bit more dangerous, isn't it?" "Uh-huh." "Are there any around these waters?" "Nope not that I know of. I don't remember hearing about any news of shark attacks around the Naroda area." "Oh ok, then I won't worry about it." The little dolphin swam up to Tenchi. "Uh..., hello!" Tenchi greeted to the porpoise. The dolphin whistles and click in return. "Looks like it likes you, Tenchi." Aisha: Must be a girl Clayton: No kidding "You think so?" Tenchi asked and looked over to Ryoko. Ryoko grinned and nodded to Tenchi. "Ah! I guess I have my ways with animals." Tenchi said happily turned over to face the dolphin. "Cute little..." Suddenly, Tenchi was cut off mid-sentence by a huge spurt of water from the dolphin's mouth. Tenchi: Of course Ryoko hugged herself and laughed out loud at Tenchi's wet reception. As Ryoko chuckled jovially, Tenchi coughed hard spitting out the salty water from his mouth. The dolphin swam vertically atop the ocean's surface and moved backwards. Then it disappeared below the surface of the water. "Hahaha!" Ryoko laughed. "Quit laughing! That's not funny!" "For you it wasn't, but for me on the other hand..." Ryoko cut herself off and continued on laughing. "Oh yeah?" Tenchi said deviously. He immediately splashed the laughing Ryoko with a small wave of water. Ryoko coughed and gave Tenchi a furious look. "Now that's funny! HAHAHAHA!" Tenchi chuckled. "Oh, is that right?" Ryoko challenged. "I am the water queen!" Ryoko: Technically I'm also the queen of Jurai if Asuza and his wives die She immediately splashed water at Tenchi's direction but he ducked into the crystal clear water to avoid Ryoko's attack. Tenchi suddenly popped back up and splashed Ryoko even more. "I've got you! Water queen!" Tenchi proclaimed gallantly, splashing Ryoko even further. "AAH!" Ryoko yelled happily, shielding the incoming water with her arms. Ryoko gasped with a shocked look in her eyes. She pointed her finger at an object behind Tenchi. "Look! I can't believe it! There's Washu!" Washu: (As Dr. Nick) Hi everybody! Tenchi's laugh disappeared. "Huh? Where?" "Sucker! Gotcha!" Ryoko exclaimed and splashed Tenchi. "Oh! Being sneaky, eh?" Both continued splashing water at each other, giggling. When suddenly, they here a strange rumbling-wavy sound coming from the open sea. "uhh..., Ryoko? Do you hear that?" Ryoko nodded. Tenchi and Ryoko turned around to see where the sound was emanating from. "AAAAHHH!" Both screamed simultaneously as a whole pod of dolphins swam past by, causing a huge onslaught of water. After being drenched by the wave of sea water, Tenchi and Ryoko stood up and stared at the laughing porpoises. Ryoko: They did that on porpoise! Aisha: Oh no, she's resorting to puns *** Lunch! Clayton: Break time! Sasami returned to the shrine, carrying with her a tray full of lunch. The edibles were mostly comprised of finger foods and enough rice bowls to feed the group. Sasami sat down next to Aeka and Washu. Sasami reached into her pocket and grabbed an orange carrot. She held the carrot in hand and reached over her head and offered it to Ryo-ohki. The cabbit happily accepted. Washu smiled slightly and switched off her holocomputer. She reached over to the food trey and grabbed a deep-fried vegetable. Aeka did likewise. "Lunch is ready!" Sasami shouted to the dueling Juraians. "Oh great! I'm starving!" Shoji exclaimed as he deflected one of Yosho's strike. "Mmm..., likewise." Yosho added, as he dodged under Shoji's swing. Both ran towards the steps of the shrine, swinging and striking at each other. Seeing this, Aeka, Sasami, and Washu screamed and quickly moved out of harm's way. "Yosho!" Aeka said angrily. "You are carrying this way out of hand!" "Relax, Aeka. We're trained professionals, Shoji and I know what we're doing." Yosho retorted as he dodged another Shoji's swings and quickly grabbed a rice bowl. "You could have warned us that you were going to..." "Let them have their fun, Aeka." Washu jumped in. "After all boys will be boys." "Oh fine." Aeka said harshly. Shoji immediately grabbed his rice bowl and jumped back to avoid Yosho's bokken. Holding the rice bowl in his left hand, Yosho poured the contents of the bowl down his mouth and rapidly chewed. Shoji charged Yosho while putting the bowl back in it's place on Sasami's tray. "Thanks, princess Sasami." He said as he passed the princess. "My pleasure!" Sasami returned. Shoji immediately jumped up again to avoid Yosho's bokken swipe. Yosho passed by Sasami and placed his bowl onto the tray. "Thank you, Sasami." Yosho gratified the princess as he charged towards Shoji. "Sure thing, Yosho!" Sasami said happily. And so, Yosho and Shoji continued on with their battle... Washu started her way back towards the house. "Well, girls I'm heading' back home. I've gathered more than enough data for my research and from what I can conclude. I can tell where this fight's going to head and it'll be a VERY long while until they reach the end. See you two later." "Alright." Remarked, Aeka. "See you later Washu!" Said, Sasami. "Miya! Miya!" Followed the cabbit. All: (Back) *** S. O. S. Clayton: I saw that! Trying to call for help? Gene: No, I swear! Further away from the beach's shore, Tenchi and Ryoko laughed, played, and enjoyed the time of their lives with their new-found mammal friends. The water was already eight feet in depth and Tenchi stayed with the main pod. While Ryoko wanders off with her favorite dolphin, separating from the group. She happily named the dolphin 'Echo', mainly because of the deep sounds it made. Clayton: Echo later went on to get his own video game With the memories of Goro far buried in her mind, Ryoko swam underwater along side with the young mid-sized dolphin. Due to her yellow-feral eyes, Ryoko's eyesight underwater was ten times keener compared to all humans. Ryoko swam close and grabbed onto the left flipper of the porpoise. The dolphin happily pulled Ryoko along the water. As the ceiling of water passed over her head, Ryoko noticed a little boy a few yards ahead. Ryoko thought curiously. She signaled the dolphin to swim closer to investigate. As they drew closer, Ryoko quickly realized that the little kid was clearly face down, bobbing up and down in the water. They broke the surface and finally reached the boy and Ryoko quickly examined him. His eyes were closed and he wasn't breathing. Ryoko thought to herself. She did her best over the moving water to check his pulse, she examined the little one's neck. She concentrated for a moment. She found a very faint but fading pulse. Ryoko quickly signaled Echo to swim over. She held on to the boy tight and grabbed onto Echo's flipper. The dolphin sped towards the beach's shore. Meanwhile, Tenchi popped up through the surface of the water, marveled at being around dolphins for the very first time in his life. "I will never forget this day, Ryoko. How are you enjoying it so far?" Tenchi asked and waited a moment for Ryoko's reply. "Ryoko?" No answer. Clayton: The party you have dialed is no longer available Tenchi looked around for Ryoko, she wasn't nearby. "Grrr! I hate it when she does that!" Tenchi growled. "Now where did she go?" "Teenchiii!!" Ryoko screamed. Tenchi quickly looked around and spotted Ryoko. "I've found a kid! He's not well, I'm going to help him!" Tenchi found her riding towards the shore of the beach at a very rapid pace. He quickly signaled a dolphin over and he held onto it's dorsal fin. The dolphin clicked and squeaked, Tenchi patted it's head and the dolphin sped off towards the shore like a torpedo. Ryoko had already carried the kid in her arms to the shore, the youngster had lost his pulse. She carefully placed him on a blanket that was laying nearby on the sand. A curious crowd started to gather around Ryoko. "Okay, folks! I need some room!" Ryoko demanded. The crowd curiously watched and whispered to each other as Ryoko positioned the boy on his back. She placed his back and neck in an upward position to open up a clear airway. Ryoko opened his mouth and started to blew in air into his lungs. Tenchi had reached the gathered crowd. He pushed his way through, he reached the center of the commotion and found Ryoko performing CPR to a young child. He watched as Ryoko tried to start up the boy's circulation by pumping his chest with her clasped hands. He quickly realized that his camera was still in his pocket from earlier. He quickly pulled out the camera and started to take pictures. "Come on! Breathe!" Ryoko yelled out. She breathed into his lungs. After three breaths, she went back to pumping his heart. Finally, after a minute of CPR, the boy quickly turned to his side. He started to convulse violently, he coughed and spat out water from his lungs. The surrounding crowd cheered and celebrated at Ryoko's quick life-saving actions. A girl stepped out from the crowd and wraps a blanket around the young boy. Several others gathered around Ryoko, they hugged, patted her on the shoulders and also shook hands with her. Tenchi watched as the crowd congratulated Ryoko on a job well done. Tenchi smiled at Ryoko, very proud of her. Ryoko looked over to Tenchi and smiled at him. Aisha: Hard to joke about this The same words ran through his mind. He took the last two remaining pictures of Ryoko giving out a victory sign at the camera. After taking the pictures, he placed the camera back into his pocket. He walked through the talking crowd that surrounded Ryoko. Tenchi finally reached her and hugged her. "Well done, Ryoko." "Thank you, Tenchi." Ryoko said, hugging back. "Excuse me, miss?" Said a young voice. "Yes?" as she turned away from Tenchi and looked down to find that the little kid she saved was standing, wrapped in a blanket. A lifeguard stood next to him, holding him by the arm. "Thank you for saving my life." "No need to thank me. Sorry I couldn't have been there any sooner." Washu: The author seems to be trying out story ideas "Better late than never." The boy retorted. He bowed his head to Ryoko. "I thank you again. By the way, my name's Haruo." "My name's Ryoko and this is Tenchi." Haruo turned to Tenchi and greeted him with a bow. "Hello, Tenchi." "Hello, Haruo." Tenchi returned the boy's greeting. "Is Ryoko you're girlfriend? You're a very lucky." Haruo winked. "Well..." Tenchi said nervously. "She's more like a date." All: Wuss! Ryoko sighed under her breath. The crowd had begun to disperse. "Oh, sorry if I said something wrong." Haruo apologized. "No, not at all!" Tenchi said quickly. "My father owns that seaside hotel, over there." Haruo pointed towards the hotel. "I would very much like to repay you back by inviting you to the Annual Naroda Beach dance." "We'll be there, tonight." Said Ryoko and Tenchi. "What time will it start?" Asked Tenchi. "It'll start in an hour at eight o'clock." "Eight o'clock?" Tenchi said a little startled. He looked at his sports watch and realized how much time has quickly passed. The time was seven o'clock. "Wow." Tenchi commented. Tenchi: No kidding, we got in the water a little after noon. That's a long time to swim "Okay?" Asked, Haruo. "Okay we'll see you then." Said, Ryoko. "Alright!" Haruo exclaimed. He hugs Ryoko. "I'll see you later then! Bye!" Haruo runs off towards the seaside hotel. "Sweet kid." Ryoko commented. "Yeah." Tenchi agreed. He turned to Ryoko. "So..." "So what?" Ryoko asked. "What shall we do now until eight o'clock?" Gene: You can't be this dumb "Let's just watch the sunset together, ok?" Ryoko suggested. "Umm..., Alright." All: Awww, how sweet Tenchi and Ryoko sat down next to each other on the sand and peered out to the ocean horizon. The Sun is only a quarter of an hour away until it actually starts setting. Still proud of Ryoko's life saving actions, Tenchi decided to reach over and hold Ryoko's right hand. Aisha: Not the left one mind you Both decided not to ruin the beauty of the setting horizon, so they kept silent for the duration of what's left of daylight. Ryoko felt Tenchi's hand held her right hand. Not knowing what to think or say, Ryoko blushed instead and gazed onto the sea as the sun begun it's process to kiss it's horizon. *** The Duel's Conclusion The crimson sky had begun to sink over the Okayama countryside Ryoko: The sky is falling! approaching the dark night. Yosho and Shoji had managed to move the fight over from the shrine, through the woods, and finally ending up at the lake. For four hours the duel carried on, neither one had any intention of losing but they were both getting really tired. Aeka watched the duel from the house, she leaned against the frame of her bedroom window and found that the two Juraian males were on opposite sides of the lake. She watched as Yosho jumped up from his side of the lake, leaping several meters into the air. Aeka looked over and found Shoji doing likewise. Both clashed and swung at each other in mid-air over the lake. Gene: In the end there can be only one Their bokkens collided with each other as they fell straight towards the water. Instead of falling straight through, they landed on the surface of the lake! Both ran across the top of the lake, as if on solid ground breaking the rules of physics. Washu: Ha! Shoji and Yosho swung and struck at each other, as they neared the shore of the lake, suddenly, at the very last minute before reaching solid ground, Shoji slipped on a patch of mud. He fell face forward into the muddy shore of the lake. Yosho seized the opportunity and tagged Shoji's chest with his bokken. Shoji stood up and noticed that his clothes were completely covered in muck. "Great." Shoji commented as he looked at the dark-brown muck on his clothing. Then Shoji hears an elegant giggle emanating from the house. He immediately spotted Princess Aeka chuckling from a second-story window. Shoji blushed slightly. Yosho walked over and placed his right hand on Shoji's shoulder. "There there, no need to feel defeated. You held up very well against me. One of the longest duels I've ever had." "Thank you, Prince Yosho." "Please, just call me Yosho but I rather much prefer Katsuhito. I want to treat you as an equal, rather than a servant. Princess Aeka will treat you likewise and I expect you to treat us in the same manner." Ryoko: Yeah right! "Understood. It'll take some getting use to but I'll try, nevertheless. Thank you, again." "Your skills as a knight are exceptional. If you hadn't slipped, the duel would've lasted longer. But considering how well you held up against me, I consider you the same equivalent to my capabilities. I feel safe that you're Aeka's new guardian." "You're too kind." Shoji said modestly. "I shall do my keenest to protect her with my life." Tenchi: Oh that's just peachy keen "I don't doubt it. Why don't you go and wash up." Yosho suggested. Shoji nodded in agreement. He turned and bowed to Yosho, Yosho returned the gesture. Then, Shoji walked off to go change. Yosho watched as Shoji left. "Eww..." Yosho commented as he looked at his right hand and watched as the slimy-smelly mud slipped through his fingers. *** Dance Party at the Seaside Hotel The seaside hotel's outdoor ballroom was filled with music and dancing couples. As expected the dress code was casual beach attire and the music was nice, soothing and romantic. Tenchi and Ryoko walked along the side of the wooden dance floor. Ryoko was still wearing her beach bikini and Tenchi was wearing a white T-shirt and his swimming trunks, both sat down at a nearby table. Haruo looked all over and finally spotted his special guests, he walked over to Tenchi and Ryoko. "Hello Ryoko! Hello Tenchi! Welcome!" "Hello Haruo!" Ryoko greeted back. "Hi Haruo." Tenchi returned. The ten year old blushed and struggled with his words. "Uhh..., Miss Ryoko? Um, uh, can you, uh..." "What can I do for you, Haruo?" "Well..., um since you saved my life and all...can you..." Haruo said fiddling with his fingers. "I know I'm just a kid and all but..." "Haruo, spit it out." Ryoko demanded in a friendly way. "Can you have this one dance with me?" All: (Laugh at Ryoko) "Sure!" "R-really?!" "C'mon, let's go tear up the rug." Ryoko stood up from her chair and held the little kid's hand. "Yaay!" The boy exclaimed, following Ryoko to the wooden dance floor. Washu: So after all the trouble I go through with Goro he loses her to that little punk Tenchi watched as Ryoko walked off to the dance floor, he beamed at Ryoko's generosity. "Have fun dancing!" Tenchi said to Ryoko. "I'll just sit here and watch." Ryoko turned around and gave Tenchi an evil grin. "You're not off the hook, that easily. You're next right after this." Ryoko: Much better "Uhh, ok." Tenchi returned nervously. Ryoko winked back in response. Then an easing song started up in the speakers. She turned to Little Haruo and smiled softly. "Okay kid, let's begin." Haruo nodded and took Ryoko's right hand and placed his left hand on her lips. Gene: Weird dances they have in Japan The uneven-looking couple began to dance waltz around the dance floor with Ryoko doing the lead. Under soft roaming lights of the ballroom, Tenchi watched and admired Ryoko's fluent yet gentle movements, as she graced the dance floor. He thought. Tenchi looked at Haruo's face and noticed his innocent-boyish smile. Tenchi: No doubt (Hugs Ryoko) Ryoko danced along the floor with Haruo through out the song. "I'm curious. How did you end up so faraway from shore?" "I was on my inflatable row boat when I ventured out. I kinda got carried away and ended up rowing out too far. So I decided to row back to shore but when I did, the float was leaking air! As you can see, the rest is history." Haruo beamed. She gazed at the Haruo's young face and enjoyed the boy's warm handsome smile. Ryoko smiled back at him, proud of the fact that she saved his life. Knowing that she was the one that was responsible for giving him a chance at life, love, and happiness. Ryoko: I wonder if I can get into his parent's will The song finally ended, and the dancing lights stopped moving. The dancers started to walk off the dance floor. "Well, I have to go now. Thank you for dancing with me!" Haruo thanked as he gave Ryoko a big hug. "You're welcome, kiddo. Anytime." Ryoko hugged back and patted Haruo's head. Haruo laughed happily and walked off the dance floor, waving back at Ryoko as he left the Outdoor ballroom, she waved back. As soon as Haruo left, Ryoko looked over to Tenchi's direction, she found him sitting at the table looking at her. Ryoko held up her finger and pointed at him. Ryoko: You have food on your mouth Tenchi saw that Ryoko was the only one left standing on the dance floor. He noticed that Ryoko pointed her finger at him. He looked around and pointed at himself and looked at her questioningly. "Me?" He asked silently. Washu: No, the other guy she's in love with Ryoko nodded affirmative. Tenchi nervously stood up and walked over to Ryoko. As soon as he reached Ryoko, the music immediately started and the lights begun to dance slowly across the ballroom. "Hello, Tenchi." Ryoko greeted. "Hello, Ryoko." "Ready to dance?" "Uhh..., sure." Tenchi answered nervously. Tenchi placed his right hand on Ryoko's hip and held Ryoko's right hand. Gene: So he pinned her hand to her hip? Ryoko noticed Tenchi's apprehensiveness. "What's wrong? Don't want to dance?" "No, it's not that, it's just been awhile since I've danced." "Oh. Well that's no problem just follow my lead and it'll all come back to you." "Um..., okay." Tenchi complied. Ryoko began to move Tenchi along with the romantic rhythm of the song. As the crowd gathered onto the dance floor, Tenchi quickly recognized the song that was being played over the speakers. He knew the song was from an animated movie called X:1999, Forever My Love. He never liked the voice of the lead singer but he always loved the music went along with it. The elegant piano, the rhythmic hypnotic sound of the guitars and his absolute favorite: the sweeping violins. Overall, Tenchi adored the song. He gazed at Ryoko and did his best to keep up with her natural rhythm. Ryoko smiled, she freed her hand from Tenchi's right, placed her arms around Tenchi's neck, Tenchi: (Chokes) Can't... breathe and rested her head on his chest. Tenchi placed his right hand on her hips, he felt Ryoko's body press up against him, Tenchi blushed a little. (Oh tell me why! Forever dream...} As part of the song sung out. "Tenchi..." Ryoko whispered into his ear in dreamy way. "This is so romantic..." "Mmmm..." Tenchi sounded contently. Tenchi found that his arms embraced Ryoko from around her waist. Ryoko: Stop doing weird things with your hands {Will you stay with me...} Tenchi closed his eyes and found himself neck-to-neck with Ryoko. For once, he wasn't nervous around Ryoko and he loved the feeling of the close and secret intimacy being shared. This was a side of Ryoko he rarely ever saw, he had the general thought of her having the care-free-bad-girl persona, Aisha: Just like me except for the time with the Zero incident. Tenchi thought curiously. He told himself. Ryoko was already floating with joy as she danced with the man she loved. The date had went by so well, with a few exceptions, overall, this is the best day of her life. She basked in the warm soothing energies that was emitted by Tenchi's soul. Washu: Oops, now you're starel Letting every part of her being immerse itself into the surrounding music and to the person she is dancing with. She didn't realize until that very moment how good it felt to be assimilated with Zero. If it weren't for zero's tapped insight into her true feelings for Tenchi. Ryoko would've never been able to come up with the idea of taking Tenchi out to Naroda Beach. Because of Zero, Ryoko finally learned how to stay focused whenever she's around Tenchi. Ryoko: Oh yeah, give her all the credit As Tenchi and Ryoko danced on, they lost track of the dancers, the number of songs they danced to, and the time. The last song of the dance, "Fly Me to the Moon", finally ended. "Tenchi?" Ryoko sounded. "Yes, Ryoko?" "What time is it?" Tenchi held up his wrist behind Ryoko's back and looked at his watch. "It's eleven o'clock." "Really?" Ryoko said, facing Tenchi. "Already?" "Yep." "Hmm..., looks like the date's almost over. At midnight, Ryoko: I turn into a mouse my powers will return." "Oh Really?" Ryoko nodded. "I have one last thing to show you, before we call it a night." "What is it?" Tenchi asked. "I'll tell you later, as soon as we get Washu's last invention." "Uhh..., last invention?" Tenchi said nervously. Washu: Yeah, I'm retiring "You'll see. Trust me." Ryoko took Tenchi's hand and led him out of the ballroom. They walked towards the beach house to retrieve Washu's last invention. *** Night Time in Okayama Aeka and Sasami were in their room preparing their futons for the night's rest. Sasami tucked herself into her futon, she peered over and watched as Aeka prepared her futon. As Aeka gracefully pulled the blanket aside, she looked through the window next to her and noticed that the fireflies were abundant. The summer night sky was filled with stars and full moon was out. Aeka observed the fireflies flying around in the fields at night, they resembled little orbs of dancing light. Then, Aeka spotted Shoji, he was walking along the shores of the lake, as if searching for something. Tenchi: Lost a contact lense "Aeka, what are you looking at?" Asked the little princess. "Shoji is outdoors, wandering about. It appears like he is searching for something." "So Aeka, do you think he's cute?" "Sasami!" Aeka snapped. "I told you not ask me that!" "Come on, Aeka! He isn't exactly ugly." "No, I have to admit. He is not publicly impaired." All: Huh? Sasami gasped. "See! I knew you liked him in someway!" She exclaimed loudly, as she jumped up and down on her futon. "Now that is not true! I am only simply stating that he is attractive. Any girl would say the same thing!" Aeka retorted. "Yeah, I guess you're right. He's pretty handsome over all." Sasami looked over to her older sister and noticed a frowned look on Aeka. "Sorry about that Aeka, I guess I got carried away. I won't say another word about Shoji." Sasami apologized while laying down in her futon. "Thank you for understanding, Sasami. My heart is still devoted to Tenchi. No one else." All: (roll their eyes) Aeka affirmed. She started to think about Tenchi and Ryoko all over again. Trying to bury her worries, she peered over through the window and stared at Shoji. After a moment of silent thinking, Aeka stood up and made her way towards the door. "Where are you going, Aeka?" Sasami asked while sitting up in her futon. "I am stepping outside to see what Shoji is looking for. I will return shortly." Sasami giggled. "Oh really? I am so sure, Aeka." Sasami teased. "Sasami..." Aeka said sternly. "Okay, okay! I'll stop! Good night, Aeka!" "Good night, Sasami. You little joker." Sasami stuck her tongue out at Aeka. Aeka laughed softly and quietly stepped out of the room. As soon as Aeka left, Sasami hid herself under her covers continued on laughing. Meanwhile, out at the lake, Shoji finally found the perfect spot to sit and bask in the moonlight. Tenchi: The dock? Even though his surroundings were quite alien, most planets he landed on had beautiful nights. He laid down on the ground and gazed up at the constellations. Fireflies flew across Shoji's view, he smiled serenely. He thought. "Good evening, Shoji." Greeted Aeka. Shoji sat up to greet the Amethyst-haired princess. "Good evening, Princess Aeka." "Would you like to join me?" Shoji said, offering Aeka a spot next to him. "Sure, why not." Aeka accepted and sat down next to Shoji. "What brings you here under the stars?" Asked Shoji. "Actually, I was wondering about the same thing." "I just wanted to enjoy my first night on Earth by sleeping out here." "I see. Well, the nights here are very tranquil. By the way, your fight against Yosho was very impressive." Aisha: This is getting dull "Thank you for your kind words, Princess Aeka." "My pleasure. If you had not slipped on that patch of mud..." "On the contrary, I intentionally slipped." Washu: Suuure you did "Oh?" Aeka asked with a startled look. "Why would you do a thing like that?" "Because if I hadn't, the duel would've lasted longer. I figured that the mock duel was just for his practice, so I forfeited. Yosho knew, at that moment, that I slipped on purpose. We were both very tired and we needed an excuse to stop. So I volunteered to take the plunge." "Very interesting. You are just as devious as my brother." Aeka joked openly. "Well, I wouldn't put it in such harsh words..." Shoji said embarrassingly, rubbing the back of his head. "But yeah, I guess you can say that." Aeka and Shoji both laughed quietly. After a minute, the laughing gradually stopped and Shoji looked over to Aeka with an inquisitive look. "Princess Aeka, can I ask you a question?" "Sure, go ahead. Speak your mind." "Well, earlier today, as we walked towards the shrine. I've noticed that you were in deep thought. What seems to be troubling you?" Ryoko: (As Aeka) Well lately I just haven't been feeling 'fresh' Aeka was taken aback by Shoji's question. "Well..., it is somewhat of a personal nature." "I'm sorry to have asked. Please accept my deep apologies for nosing in on your personal life." "No! No! It is alright. You are not here as a mere bodyguard but as an equal and a friend. Besides, I am rather glad that you asked." "You are?" All: You are? Aeka nodded. "I needed to talk about this to someone, someway or another. Even though both you and I have just met. I know it is strange but I feel rather comfortable talking to you." Gene: Game. Set. Match. Asuza wins Shoji smiled. "I'm flattered. I have to admit. Even though you're the Crown Princess of Jurai, I feel as though you're not. You make me feel like an equal and I appreciate the welcoming feeling." "You are very welcome, Shoji." "So, now that we're friends. What has been troubling your thoughts, in the recent hours?" "Well it is more of a WHO than a WHAT." "Oh, I see..." Shoji said, immediately figuring out Aeka's predicament. Washu: He did? And I thought I was a genius "Well, I have been quite attached to a boy named Tenchi Masaki." Clayton: Attatched? If you'd had your way he'd have been grafted to your side "You mean, the next Crown Prince of Jurai?" "Yes." "Where is he? I looked forward in meeting him but he wasn't around." "That is because he is on a date with Ryoko." "You mean the space pirate?" "Yes, her." Aeka said grudgingly. Shoji was silent and listened on as Aeka told him about the chess game, how she lost, and Tenchi and Ryoko's date at Naroda Beach. Aeka continued on, holding in her tears. "Ryoko and I have been competing for Tenchi's love for the past few years and now..." Aeka paused. "Things seem to be taking a turn." "How would you know that?" Shoji inquired. Tenchi: Because everyone else in the house, the general area, and the planet did? Ryoko: Except you Tenchi: (Blushes) Oh yeah... "I don't really know. I just have a feeling that things will be different after they return tomorrow. I just know that Tenchi will finally choose between Ryoko and myself within the next few days. And I am not sure if I am prepared to see Ryoko walk out as the victor. What should I do?" Clayton: Date outside your family? "To be honest, I have no real advise as to help guide you in your situation." "I understand..." Aeka said disappointedly. "But!" Shoji added. "All I can say is that, there's no way to predict the oncoming events which are about to unfold for you. Especially, matters involving love. Instead of focusing on Tenchi's choice between you and Ryoko, try to focus on the possible outcomes." Aisha: So much for having no advise "But why? What do you mean by that?" "I mean. That way, if he chooses you, the joy will be much greater. If he doesn't choose you, at least the pain will be much less than unexpected." "I understand. Thank you for the advice." "I'm sorry if it's not what you're looking for but that's the best I can give you." "Don't say that. Your advice is quite helpful. I didn't think about my situation on that angle. You sound like you have dealt with this matter before." Shoji made a bitter-sweet smile on his face. Gene: I prefer barbeque flavored myself "Yes, I have. I had my fair share of Love, just like anybody else." "Really? How many times have you experienced this?" Aeka asked curiously. "Very few and not often." "When was the last time you ever fell in love?" Aeka asked. She looked over and noticed that Shoji had a hilt of a Juraian Energy sword attached to his belt. She peered in carefully and noticed that the hilt had a green jewel artificially melded into its wooden body. "Last year. It was pure magic." Shoji reminisced with a smile on his face. Then his smile disappeared and was replaced by a slightly sad look. "but like all good things, it ended." "I am sorry to hear that." "No reason to apologize. That's how life is sometimes, harsh and yet soothing." "That is most often true." Aeka agreed. Ryoko: Very phylosophical Both silently listened as the sounds of the night came from the countryside and watched as the yellow fireflies begun to gradually disappear. After a while of listening, Aeka was finally getting tired, she stood up. "Well, it is getting late. I better leave. It was nice having that conversation with you." "Same here, but before you leave..." "Yes?" "Can I ask you a small favor?" "Sure. Ask away." "I know this may sound strange, but since this is my first assignment being a protective guardian for a crown princess, I'd prefer that you would think of me as your Guardian Angel, instead of a typical bodyguard. Aisha: He's a bit full of himself Ryoko: Hey if he can get Aeka off my back he is an angel If you have any problems concerning personal matters, please don't hesitate to ask for my help." Aeka smiled deeply at Shoji's warm sincerity. "As you wish, Shoji. Even though you're going to be around for a very long while, I truly appreciate your intentions. From this point on, I will think of you as my very own guardian angel and nothing less." "Thank you." "You're very welcome. Goodnight, Shoji." "Sleep well, princess Aeka." Shoji watched as Aeka walked off towards the Masaki home. As soon as she disappeared into the doorway, Shoji sat down and laid back onto the grass. He looked up into the starry moon-filled night and started to hum out a small tune from his past. He closed his eyes and drifted into a dream state. Clayton: Welcome to Wyoming, the dream state *** Washu's Last Toy Washu: But I have a whole box full of toys! After returning from the beach house, Tenchi and Ryoko stood at Naroda's shoreline looking out to sea enjoying the cool nautical breeze. The full moon was out and the night sky was filled with tiny glimmering beacons of light. Aisha: (Little girl voice) They're heeeeere "What is it that you wanted to show me?" Tenchi asked. "Tenchi, do you know why I chose Naroda Beach to be the place of our first date?" "I am curious as to why or how." "Well, to answer your curiosity, I was watching a small travelling program that showed on TV last weekend. I became so interested because of the beauty of this beach." "You definitely have good taste on your locations." "Thanks, Tenchi. But besides the obvious, there is also another reason why I decided on Naroda Beach." Gene: It's a nude beach? "Oh? And what was that?" Tenchi inquired curiously. "Well, the Travelers show mentioned that once every month or so, when the moon is full and the tide is right. With the assistance of colliding underwater currents, numerous glowing microscopic sea creatures would float up near the surface." "Is it close to shore? Where would we find this occurrence?" Tenchi: And why did I use the word 'occurrence'? "About a half mile out to sea. You don't mind do you?" "Hmm..., sounds interesting. How do we get there?" Tenchi asked. "Not to worry, I have it figured out." Ryoko assured. "I knew this would come in handy some time." She reached into her pocket and pulled out another silver box. She placed the box into the water and the box automatically unfolded into a small boat. Clayton: Washu, you need to stop watching the Jetsons The boat was painted white and had thin red stripe that ran from bow to stern. On the left side of the boat, Tenchi noticed a small red crab icon that held up a small flag saying; "Little Washu's Yacht". Washu: Nice touch The boat was in the water. Gene: Because if it weren't that would just be silly Tenchi and Ryoko stepped onto the deck of the boat and sat down in their seats at the front. Tenchi noticed that the boat did not have any type of steering mechanism or any other controls to help navigate the boat. "How does this thing work?" Tenchi asked looking around. "You'll see." Ryoko replied. "Please state your destination." Asked the boat's computer. It had Washu's voice. Washu: What can I say? I'm into voyerism "Wow..." Tenchi said, dumbfounded. Ryoko giggled at Tenchi's reaction and turned towards the integrated computer system. "Ok, computer. Take us approximately half a mile out to sea." "Gotcha." Replied the computer. The Florescent Sea Creatures The boat had arrived at the illuminated area of the ocean approximately half a mile from the shore. The full moon was up and the stars twinkled brightly in the azure sky. Tenchi and Ryoko were both fixated and amazed by the almost mystic quality of the luminescent sea plankton. Clayton: (As Captain Nemo) Ramming speed! "See what did I tell you! It's so nice to be out here..." "It sure is, very peaceful." Tenchi, agreed. Ryoko sat down next to Tenchi and looked into his eyes, trying to read his soul, Ryoko: See apendix C subsection A of the revised soul... or perhaps even catch a glimpse of his heart. Feeling uncomfortable by her gaze, Tenchi looked away. Ryoko lowered her face dejectedly as he broke eye contact. Ryoko thought sadly, a little discouraged. Refusing to give up, Ryoko reached out and grasped Tenchi's hand. She used her other hand to tilt his face towards her. "Tenchi... There's something I want to tell you." "W-what is it, Ryoko?" He stuttered nervously, his warm brown eyes meeting Ryoko's gaze once more. All: (Begin betting) Gene: $50 on 'I love you' Washu: $20 on 'Get lost, I'm going back to Goro' "I've really, really enjoyed being with you today." "I-uh, have to admit, Ryoko..." Tenchi paused a bit. "Spending time with you felt..., really good." "Really!?" Ryoko asked, feeling her heart flutter with happiness. Washu: According to my tests, it was a heart murmer Tenchi nodded slowly. Ryoko smiled, her gold eyes dancing. "Would you like to swim with me, Tenchi? It's very nice out here, neh? You don't mind if you took another dip into the water. Do you?" "No, I don't mind. Let me get ready and I'll join you in a little bit..." "Alright!" Ryoko stood up Clad in her blue bikini, she jumped into the water while Tenchi remained onboard. Aisha: Like he'd still be there? Tenchi: Ok, by this point theres no way it wouldn't have sunk in Tenchi kicked off his sandals and started to get ready as well, when he remembered he still had his wallet and camera in his pants pocket. Clayton: Actually it was there when he went swimming before too Not wanting to risk losing them, he reached into his pocket and closed his hand around it. As he pulled the wallet out, a piece of paper slipped out with it and floated to the floor. Tenchi stared at it for a moment before realizing it was from the fortune telling machine he had encountered back on the shopping strip. As he bent down to pick up the paper, the words written on it flashed in his mind before he even had a chance to read them. *Cherish every precious moment you have with her...* Washu: If you'll recall, earlier I mentioned subliminal programing or something? Tenchi glanced at the puzzling phrase one last time before tossing it aside and moving to the edge of the boat. "Tenchi, hurry up and jump in!! It's looks so cool out here!" Tenchi looked over at Ryoko, who was waiting patiently in the green flourescant water. She smiled at him, returning his gaze. He smiled back at her and pulled off his shirt. Ryoko wolf whistled teasingly as she viewed his bare chest, Gene: ah my eyes! I'm blind! grinning widely. "Woohoo! Look at that stud!" All: Where? Tenchi blushed and jumped into the water. He swam over to Ryoko, smiling as she came into his view. He couldn't help but notice how beautiful she looked under the moonlight, her cyan locks damp around her face, her soft gold eyes smiling at him. Aisha: That's right, they smile they dance, Ryoko's eyes do it all After a minute or so of staring in silence at her, Tenchi couldn't control himself any longer. In a swift, surprising move, he swam up to Ryoko and did his best to embrace her in the water. "Tenchi...?? W-what are you...?" Ryoko gaped, feeling her cheeks grow warm. Clayton: Tenchi, you touched her butt? Tenchi: I told you I was getting better about that "It's my way of thanking you for a great day. I had a wonderful time, Ryoko. Most importantly, you saved Haruo's life." "Don't mention it, Tenchi. I did what I had to do." Ryoko said softly, smiling at him. Her heart felt ready to burst with sheer joy; Washu: Definitely a heart murmer she could scarcely believe what had just happened. "Sorry if I looked frightened up there on the boat." Tenchi added sheepishly. Ryoko laughed quietly, returning the hug tenderly. "Hey, it's alright, Tenchi. I'm used to it." "Used to it?" Tenchi frowned at the last remark. "Well, that's going to surely change." Ryoko: Don't call me Sherly "Oh? Change in what way?" Ryoko asked curiously with full intention of putting Tenchi on the spot. Tenchi flinched. "Uhh, well, funny you should ask that, Ryoko. Uhh..." Gene: Actually I am finding this very funny "Why am I not surprised?" Ryoko joked. Clayton: Because that has been the theme of this entire story They suddenly realized they were sinking, due to the weight of their embrace. As the water line reached their necks, they laughed and without further delay, separated from each other. Ryoko and Tenchi turned and gazed at each other for a moment. Ryoko blushed and bit her lip nervously, not wanting to tear her eyes away from him. Tenchi swallowed hard, vaguely wondering why there seemed to be a swarm of butterflies in his stomach as he stared into Ryoko's feline eyes. Tenchi: Alien physiology? About a half a mile away, a dog barked from somewhere down the shore. Upon hearing the noise, both Tenchi and Ryoko abruptly looked away from each other. Not wanting disappointment to stain the incredible moment she had just shared with Tenchi, Ryoko decided to distract herself by exploring the lovely surroundings. She drew in a deep breath and dove underwater. All: (hum the theme to Jaws) Hearing the quiet splash, Tenchi timidly glanced to the spot where Ryoko was and smiled. He sighed and told himself it was probably for the best, letting his thoughts drift to the fortune teller's advice. Ryoko dove deeper, trying to catch a glimpse of other sea creatures which may be lurking in the blue ocean. Tenchi: Shark! Her thoughts drifted to her moments with Tenchi, she thought about the way he held her during the dance, the way he approached her to embrace in the water, she smiled. Ryoko closed her eyes and sighed blissfully. Suddenly, the ocean seemed to lurch and she felt herself violently hit by surge of water. Startled by the sudden disappearance of the sea creatures, Ryoko realized that a strong current had swept her to a deeper and darker location. Aisha: Welcome to Texas She, thought frantically as she tried to swim towards the surface but the darkness of the water disoriented her and she lost all sense of direction. Her eyes began to sting and her lungs began to burn from exhaustion. Ryoko felt herself frightened as she desperately tried to figure out a way out of the black, freezing water. The cold isolation started to resurface memories she preferred to have kept buried in the far depths of her mind. Memories of her long, torturous 700 year imprisonment in the Masaki cave. Ryoko: No jokes! Unpleasant thoughts started to ruthlessly flood her mind. And worse, she was far away from Tenchi. The thought of not being able to be see Tenchi ever again filled her with terror and caused Ryoko to panic in the water. Meanwhile, Tenchi was still waiting for Ryoko to resurface. He looked at his sports watch and realized that he had already been waiting for nearly three minutes. Tenchi frowned and decided to look for Ryoko. He dove underwater and swam around the vicinity, searching the waters for a few minutes. She was nowhere to be found. Tenchi resurfaced, hoping to find her on the surface. His throat tightened in fear upon seeing she wasn't. "Ryoko! Can you hear me?!" Tenchi called out frantically in every direction. No response. "Not again. Where are you, Ryoko!!" Washu: Again? Deep in the black ocean, Ryoko fought to keep the seawater from flooding into her mouth. After a few moments of desperate struggle, the remaining air finally escaped her lungs and she took in a mouthful of liquid, she helplessly watched her surroundings began to blur and fade. She felt her thoughts drift into nothingness. Ryoko: So this is what it's like to be Mihoshi Feeling herself lose consciousness, Ryoko focused her last thought on Tenchi... As Tenchi continued his search for Ryoko, underwater, he felt an alarm bell go off in his mind. He had felt this sensation twice before, once in the Souja, before his battle with Kagato, and once in Washu's lab, when the whole Zero business had begun. He heard Ryoko's voice calling out his name. Acting more on instinct and feeling than on rational thought, Tenchi dove even deeper. As he reached a certain depth, he recognized the first signs of an existing undercurrent. The temperature shifted from warm to cold when suddenly, Tenchi felt a rush of water surround his body and rapidly carry him off into the abyss. Tench: Great, we've been moved into an entirely different story Aisha: Does this mean we get to see those glowing fish people? After a few seconds of fighting the pressure, the current finally slowed down. Tenchi regained his composure, he continued his search, somehow feeling Ryoko's presence somewhere nearby. Off in the distance, Tenchi spotted a familiar light glowing dimly and realized that it was emitted from Ryoko's gem. Tenchi quickly swam towards the beacon and to his horror, found Ryoko suspended in mid-water. She didn't appear to be conscious. Trying his best to keep panic from overwhelming him, Tenchi got a hold on Ryoko and slowly ascended back to the surface. He finally broke the ocean surface and screamed for Washu's boat. The boat immediately rushed towards them. Tenchi tiredly climbed onto the boat and pulled Ryoko after him. Once inside the boat, Tenchi frantically checked Ryoko's vital signs and felt a cold fear in his stomach when he didn't find any. Without hesitating, he went to enact what he had learned in the health classes he had thought to be so boring in school. Gene: Oh I get it. This is an excuse for mouth to mouth Others: Duh Tenchi turned Ryoko over, laying her flat on her back and placed a hand on her forehead, tilting her head and clearing her airway. He leaned forward, closing her nose with one hand and pressed his mouth against hers, breathing deeply into her. He paused, watching her chest rise, then continued blowing in breath after breath of air into her mouth. "Come on! Breathe!" Tenchi yelled, his brown eyes filled with fear. Ryoko: Don't tell me what to do! Tenchi put his hands together above Ryoko's mid-chest and started to rhythmically press her heart, trying to start up blood flow. "Don't you dare give up on me, Ryoko! Clayton: If she hasn't left by now I doubt she will I know you! Don't you dare leave me like this!" Tenchi cried out as he pumped. 'Cherish every precious moment you have with her..." The haunting words kept going through Tenchi's mind as he struggled to save Ryoko. "You're stronger than this, Ryoko! Please, do something to let me know you're still here!" Ryoko: (Grabs Tenchi and frenches him) Tenchi: (A bit dazed) Yep, still here He blew in another deep breath into Ryoko's mouth. After each breath, Tenchi pumped her chest, and vice versa, alternating the actions with each movement. The ordeal seemed to last a lifetime, with no visible results. Tenchi bit his lip hard to keep from screaming in fear and frustration, but he refused to give up. As the minutes passed, he felt hope start to diminish. Pumping Ryoko's chest, Tenchi shut his eyes tightly and silently prayed. Aisha: This is where being friends with a goddess comes in handy right? Suddenly, his prayer seemed to be answered as Ryoko convulsed and spat out the seawater that had filled her lungs. She turned from side to side, coughing violently then stopped and laid still, gulping in air. Tenchi watched her in silence as his eyes welled up with tears of joy and relief. Ryoko lay quietly on the deck, catching her breath and adjusting to the atmosphere. After a moment of uneasy silence, Ryoko burst into tears. She tried to turn away, wanting to avoid Tenchi's concerned gaze, but her body felt weak and heavy, and she wouldn't respond. Tenchi bolted forward and pulled Ryoko into his arms, hugging her as tightly as he could. Gene: About time! "Don't you ever swim away from me like that ever again! I thought I'd lost you!" he whispered in her ear, his voice thick with tears. Tenchi: How could my voice cry? Washu: Juraian physiology Ryoko barely managed a dazed nod and closed her eyes, leaning exhaustedly against him. "Computer! Take us back to shore!" Tenchi commanded loudly at the boat. "Gotcha." Said the computer. Tenchi grabbed a wool blanket that lay nearby and wrapped it around Ryoko, then sat down and held her tightly against him, rubbing her arms occasionally. They sat in this position for the remainder of the boat ride, neither of them speaking. Ryoko was very still and quiet, tears slowly trickling down her cheeks. Worried by her silence, Tenchi glanced at her and saw her tears. He gently tried to wipe them away with the back of his hand. "It's alright, it's okay. You're safe now." he whispered in a soft, reassuring tone. Ryoko remained silent, her mind still in shock from the experience she had endured. All: (sniffle) Safe Haven Tenchi quickly opened the door to the beach house. He carried Ryoko through the hallway into the replica of his room. As he walked, he looked down at her to see how she was doing, he felt Ryoko shivering in his arms. He quickened the pace and finally reached the door to the room. Tenchi walked in and carefully placed Ryoko onto a nearby bed. Ryoko sat upright near the edge of the bed staring blankly at the floor, looking very vulnerable. Tenchi stared at her with great concern. "Everything will be alright, Ryoko." Tenchi assured, putting a hand on her shoulders. "I'll look for something for you to wear." Ryoko: Is that all you ever think about? Putting clothes on girls Tenchi: Better than Gene Ryoko: Point made He quickly stepped over to a nearby closet, hoping to find any dry clothes. Tenchi opened the closet door and browsed through the selection of shirts and pajamas. Washu: I think of everything Tenchi chose a set of pajamas that consisted of white pants and button up shirt then walked over to Ryoko and noticed that she was too exhausted to change from her wet swimsuit. But before he can actually change her, he had to wash away all the salt water from her body. Gene: This bodes well Clayton: Agreed Washu: Does that mean you're ready again? Clayton: (Gulp) Tenchi noticed the faraway look on Ryoko's expression, he became even more concerned. He guided her into the shower room, Tenchi looked the other way as Ryoko took off her bikini. Ryoko: (Gasps) That's it, that's the only way it could be Aisha: What? Ryoko: Tenchi is the cartoon network censore All: Of course! Tenchi: (Smiles) After Ryoko took her bikini off, Tenchi walked out of the bathroom and headed back towards the bedroom. Throughout the four minute shower, the hot water cascaded her entire body, Ryoko tried to wash away her frustration. Washu: Tenchi hugged her Ryoko: (Mumbles) Unclean unclean... Suddenly, due to her fatigue, Ryoko's leg trembled, she slipped and fell onto the wet-tiled floor. She silently growled, slowly, she stood up and leaned against the walls of the shower. Ryoko tilted her head up, allowing her face to be bombarded by streaming warm water. With all the strength she had that remained, Ryoko punched the shower wall. Ryoko looked down and her body trembled. After a silent moment, tears of frustration mix in with the hot shower water. Tenchi waited in the bedroom while Ryoko did her final rinse off. Then she turned the faucet over. Ryoko stepped out from the shower, grabbed a nearby towel and dried off. After she dried off, Ryoko grabbed the pajamas Tenchi handed her and slipped into them. The white pajamas fitted snuggly and comfortably. Ryoko walked about clumsily, suddenly, her exhaustion overtook her and she collapsed onto the floor. Hearing a loud thump emanating from the hallway, Tenchi walked out of the bedroom and found Ryoko lying on the floor, unconscious. Clayton: Man, she's wasted "Ryoko!" Tenchi yelled, full of worry, as he ran to her. He picked up Ryoko in his arms and carried her towards the bedroom. Aisha: (As Linus) And from on high a choir of angels sangg out as the miracle came to pass Clayton: I'm pagan, please don't do that Aisha: Sorry He opened the door and placed Ryoko onto to a nearby bed. Tenchi pulled the sheets over to one side and gently tucked Ryoko in. He pulled the sheets over Ryoko to keep her warm. Tenchi stood up and stared at her with worried eyes. Too consumed with anxiety to stay in Ryoko's presence, Tenchi walked out of the room and headed off to the balcony. On his way to the balcony, Tenchi grabbed a blanket and pillow from a closet to sleep with. Ryoko: What, I'm not good enough? Tenchi reached the balcony and seated himself down on the largest pull-back patio chair, planning to sleep silently under the stars. Tenchi sat down, positioned his pillow, he laid back and looked up at the peaceful starry twilight. He let out a long sigh. He thought exhaustedly. Washu: Maybe its that you refuse to kiss her Meanwhile back in the bedroom, Ryoko opened her eyes and realized that she was in bed. She knew right away Tenchi had placed her there. She angrily pushed the blanket off and limped her way towards the patio. Ryoko: I'm looking for the man that shot my Pa Tenchi sighed and decided to go to sleep. He sat up and pulled off his watch from his wrist. Tenchi checked the time and the watch read five minutes before midnight. As Tenchi placed his wrist watch onto the patio table, he felt a presence. Tenchi: I see dead people... "Tenchi?" Ryoko asked, leaning against the doorway. "Ryoko?!" Tenchi said, surprised. "What are you doing here? You should be in bed, getting some rest!" "I know..." Ryoko said and looked away shamefully. "Do you? Then why are you standing there? C'mon, let me help you get back to your bed." Tenchi stood up and walked over to Ryoko. He gently took her arm and was about to guide Ryoko back to her but she forcefully pulled away. "I don't want to go back to that room, Tenchi." "Why not? You need your rest." "No. I'm fine." Ryoko refused again. "I just don't want to be left alone. Not after what happened." With all her strength, Ryoko stepped away from the doorway, but her legs started to falter. Washu: I built those better than that! Tenchi immediately caught Ryoko between his arms. He guided her to the patio chair that Tenchi had used. They both sat down. Tenchi gazed at Ryoko with great concern but she looked away. "Please Tenchi, don't look at me like that. Not while I'm looking like this." Ryoko said, tears welling up in her eyes. Tenchi was clearly startled by Ryoko's last statement. "What do you mean by that, Ryoko?" Ryoko: Oh my hair is just a mess "Just take a look at me, Tenchi!" Ryoko yelled out. Tears going down her cheeks. "I'm weak! I can't believe that for a few short hours I was the Rescuer and now, I'm the Rescuee! I nearly drowned today!" "But..." Ryoko cuts Tenchi off. "Me! Drowning! I don't believe this! Nearly all my life, I believed I was strong and almost nothing could take me down! Not even fate! I chose today to go without my powers and in return, fate played games with me!" Gene: (As Fate) Gin! "That may be but..." Tenchi tried to jump in but failed. Tenchi: Canonball! "I was so foolish to go a day without my powers! I've never felt so weak and pitiful in all my life!" Ryoko yelled angrily, held her arms up clenching her fists. "Ryoko..." Tenchi said but it was futile. Washu: Resistance is futile, you will be assimilated Clayton: The borg? Washu: No, Microsoft "I'll never play little miss weak again! Never! Aisha: (Reading the reviews of Ryoko as little miss weak) I laughed, I cried, I'm a manic depressive This is the last time I'm ever going to go without my powers! The things I do to win your love!" As Ryoko screamed and cursed herself, Tenchi was at a loss. He couldn't think of a way to calm Ryoko's frustration. He stared at Ryoko's face and noticed the cascade of tears flowing from her pained golden eyes. "You just don't realize how much hurt it's caused me! I thought I was back in the cave!" She said, her voice heavy and shaky. "I've never felt so alone, so cold, so weak, so...stupid!!!" Washu: What about that time when you got zapped in my lab by the force field? Gene: Or that ime with the mass? Aisha: Or when you let that demon loose in the bath? Tenchi: Or when... Ryoko: I get the point! Tenchi's brow raised at Ryoko's last remark. He became more engrossed into her emotional babble. Sparked through Tenchi's mind for the very last time. All: Hooray! "I am such an idiot to come here without my powers! No! Not an idiot, more of an imbecile!" Gene: (hits himself before he opens his mouth) At the spur of the moment, Tenchi immediately embraced Ryoko and muffled her babble with a carefully timed kiss. Tenchi: There, now will you all stop teasing me? All: No! Shocked by Tenchi's unexpected move, Ryoko's grasp of her tough-girl-persona slipped, her arms relaxed, she unclenched her fists and relaxed in Tenchi's arms. She felt his caring energy flow from her lips which brought peace to her frantic soul. Ryoko felt her mind calm as she experienced Tenchi's lips kissing along her lips. This was her VERY first kiss, it felt like an invisible blanket had wrapped around her, keeping her warm and secure. A long, slow, warm tear rolled down her left cheek, she knew at that moment, that she was inside... Clayton: Actually they're on the patio As Tenchi kissed Ryoko, he opened his eyes and found himself lip-locking with the cyan-haired beauty. Aisha: Someones using his thesaurus His tact to calm Ryoko had worked. Slowly, Tenchi pulled away from Ryoko's lips, he gazed into her tearful golden eyes and hugged her tighter. "Don't punish yourself like that! Going on without your powers is besides the point! Don't you realize that I've nearly lost you today! I never realized IT until to-!" He corrected himself. "Until now!" "Tenchi...I..." Washu: Worst Kirk impressions I ever heard Ryoko: You are such a dweeb "Please..." Tenchi said softly. "Don't say another word, you've said enough as of tonight. I know you don't want to be left alone, don't you worry, I'm here right now. I won't leave you alone. I know what you're going through, so please, just sleep it off. I'll be right here, right next to you, to keep your troubles away. " Ryoko: (Hugs Tenchi) Ryoko's sad look disappeared from her face, she nodded slightly. Both quietly laid back against the chair. Ryoko rested her head on Tenchi's chest and gathered the warmth of his gentle soul. Tenchi carefully placed his arms around her as if trying to wrap the night around her. Ryoko closed her eyes and immediately succumbed to her exhaustion. Tenchi watched as Ryoko fell into slumber, he felt her tense body finally relax. Then he pulled the blanket over Ryoko to keep her warm from the cool sea breeze. He looked at the sleeping Oni and felt the returning presence of Ryoko's powers. Tenchi looked under the blanket and saw Ryoko's gem emitting a bright brilliant light, Washu: I'm elling you all these odd lights and radiations can't be helping his sperm count. Tenchi if you'd only let me get that sample Ryoko and Tenchi: No! he smiled. He looked up at the numerous constellations that decorated the night sky. The day was one hell of a roller coaster ride, emotionally. Tenchi sighed and gazed back at Ryoko. He held her tighter in his arms and felt the comforting warmth emanating from her. Tenchi rested his head against Ryoko's and closed his eyes. Tenchi: Ah, got your hair in my eye! Ryoko: Sorry Gene: So Ryoko, Aisha, Washu, is ALL of your hair spiked? Clayton and Tenchi: (Look away as the girls beat the snot out of Gene) As his mind drifted off, Tenchi knew that from that point on, he will do his best to cherish every precious moment with Ryoko.... Ryoko? No. Not just Ryoko. His Ryoko. Clayton: And for today only you can ave your very own Ryoko for $24.95 Ryoko: I'm worth more than that Clayton: Talk to the manufacturer (Points at Washu) Ryoko: Mom! Washu: I sell them to MSTers so we don't have to go To Be Continued... Gene: This is like the end to my show Author's note: Well folks, there you have it! You have just read the most important chapter of the whole FF series! Tenchi had finally chosen! Ryoko: I'll see if Asuza will declair a national holiday I have to admit, it was a great challenge of writing this chapter, I hope you enjoyed it! Tell me what you think! Special Thanks goes out to Ryoko MR Washu: See, there is one of my Ryoko clones now (especially), Random, Lord Talon, Cman1701, Laith and of course the Crazy Aussie man, Sir Bean. Clayton: Ok, last part! Washu: Really? Clayton: No, but this story was never finished and the rest of it is totally unfunny Tenchi Muyo: Ryoko's Love Alpha! Chapter 4A: Aeka Canon By Long T. Tran This chapter is written for and dedicated to the Stingmaster. Disclaimer: The Characters you're about to read are created and owned by AIC/ Pioneer. This fic written just for entertainment purposes and not for moneymaking. Author's notes: The Aeka contents of this chapter were inspired by a baroque classical Piece called Pachebel's Canon. Aisha. Mmm, classy Listen to this classical piece to get the Feeling of this chapter. The music can be found on the Evangelion Death Soundtrack. Btw, sorry for the long wait! --------------------------------------------------------------------- Noon at the Bus Stop Gene: The night after Ryoko's latest Saki bender Aeka was at the bus stop nervously waiting for Tenchi's return. Shoji stood next to Aeka like any guardian should. He looked forward into meeting the young Juraian prince. Sasami was back at the house cooking up some lunch to welcome back Tenchi and Ryoko. Washu was at her usual place in the lab doing her usual research on the collected data from the duel yesterday. After a few minutes of agonizing anticipation, the bus finally arrived and stopped. As the door opened, Aeka took in a breath and watched as Tenchi stepped out of the bus. "Welcome home, Lord Tenchi." Greeted Aeka. "Thank you, Aeka." Tenchi said as he returned Aeka's greeting, Tenchi looked over and noticed a Juraian male standing beside the princess. Tenchi: Woo hoo, I'm off the hook "Tenchi, while you were gone, the King of Jurai has made a major change concerning my safety." Aeka announced. "Really? What change?" Tenchi inquired. "This is my new guardian, Shoji Takazawa. He is a member of the Juraian Royal Guard." Aisha: Apparently the guy with the light hawk wings wasn't enough Shoji steps forward and bows his head to Tenchi. "I've been looking forward in meeting you, Lord Tenchi." "Uhh...Really? Thanks, nice meeting you too." Tenchi replied dumbly. Aeka looked around and searched for Ryoko. "Where is Ryoko? Did she come home with you?" ryoko: I didn't drown again did I? "Yeah, she did. Ryoko was with me throughout the trip but as soon as the bus stopped, she just disappeared." "I...see." Aeka replied. Clayton: (As Aeka as Miss Cleo) I be seein' women troubles in your future Washu: Oh theres a leap "Well, I gotta go and unpack." "Alright. I will talk to you later, there is something I wish to discuss with you...in private." Gene: You see I've decided to destroy Earth "Okay, that's fine. When?" Aisha: Thirty seconds from now "Will it be alright if I see you in ten minutes?" Gene: Ok, we'll wait "Sure, I don't mind. I need to talk to you as well." Tenchi said, a little nervous. Tenchi turned away from Aeka and faced Shoji. "I hope to talk to you in order to better acquaint myself ." Clayton: So he is gay Tenchi: Hey! "Likewise." The Knight responded kindly and smiled. Tenchi smirked in return and bowed his head to Shoji and walked off towards the house. "I can see why you are fond of him." Shoji commented. Tenchi: (Buries his face in his hands) No! Now it's men too Ryoko: It's ok Tenhi, you're taken "What are you going to speak to him about?" "I hope to accomplish one important thing." Washu: and thus begins 'Planet of the apes' "What is it that you hope to accomplish?" "First and foremost, I hope to achieve resolution." Tenchi: I knew I should have left the cammera at home "Resolution?" Shoji inquired. "I am taking your advice, I must consider all possibilities. Today will be the day where all the fighting, all the quarrels will end, and all the pain will be taken away." "Even if it opens the door to an even greater pain? Are you willing to go through it?" Aeka looked away from Shoji hiding the pained facade. She regained her composure and looked at Shoji. "Yes." "As simple as that? Just a yes?" All: Yes! Aeka stood silent to Shoji's remark. "I will see you later." Aeka said as she started her way towards the Masaki home. "Princess Aeka?" Aeka stopped and turned around somberly. "Yes?" "Please don't hesitate to talk to me. I will be around if you need me." Aeka peered at the knight and smiled. "Thank you." Tenchi and Aeka Ryoko: After all that? No way! Tenchi unpacked his belongings from his back pack. Tenchi thought angrily. "Lord Tenchi? May I come in?" Said, Aeka's voice on the side of the door. Tenchi quickly straightened up. "Uh sure, Aeka. Please, come on in." Aeka stepped through the doorway, Ryoko: And was immediately dumped in the lake Washu: I love that device walked over to Tenchi's bed and sat down. She watched silently and patiently as Tenchi placed the last of his belongings into the cabin drawer. Aisha: So they have a cabin now? Tenchi turned around and sat on his desk chair backwards directly across from Aeka. Aeka read his face carefully and noticed the nervous look. "Tenchi, what seems to be bothering you?" "Aeka..., I..." Tenchi trailed nervously. "What is it, Tenchi?" Aeka thought, hopefully. Aisha: Good plan "I guess the reason why you're here is to find out what happened between Ryoko and myself at Naroda Beach, right?" Gene: Actually Washu showed them videos of the whole thing Aeka was starting to get nervous but quickly shrugged it off. "Well, not really one of the reasons but I have to admit, yes I am curious about your trip to Naroda. But I am mainly here to talk about our relationship." "Yes, our relationship. Well..." Tenchi: You see we're already related, but Ryoko isn't so it wouldn't be fair... Washu: Oh theres a good excuse Aeka noticed Tenchi's apprehensiveness and decided to move the conversation along. "Before you say anything about your outing with Ryoko let me state that you are very dear to me." Tenchi silently listened as Aeka spoke. "Tenchi, I am in love with you." Clayton: No! We never would have guessed Tenchi froze at Aeka's confession. Tenchi thought heavily with guilt. "Aeka, I..." Tenchi started to responded. Aeka quickly but gracefully stood from Tenchi's bed and stepped over to Tenchi. She crouched down in front of Tenchi and immediately placed her right hand over Tenchi's mouth to prevent him from saying anything else. "Tenchi, please do not say a word. I must tell you what I have contemplated over the last recent days. Can you hear me out before you say anything?" Tenchi: No After a moment of silent thought, Tenchi nodded his head under Aeka's hand. Aeka gave a slight bitter-sweet smile Gene: I still prefer bbq Aisha: This is Japan. Sweet and sour sauce you know and removed her hand from Tenchi's mouth. "What I am about to tell you will, hopefully, put your mind at ease. I will ask a simple question and in return, all I want is a simple answer." Aeka stepped back and sat down at her place on Tenchi's bed. She gazed into Tenchi's nervous-but-caring eyes and carefully considered which words to speak. "Tenchi, I have lived with you for nearly two years and we both have been through a lot. Do you remember the first time I arrived here on earth?" Tenchi: Well I did get hit on the head pretty hard... "Yes, I remember very clearly. That'll be a day I'll never forget." Aeka smiled nostalgically and nodded. "Indeed, at first, I was searching for Yosho because I was still in love with him. Even though Our marriage was arranged and despite my feelings towards him, he did not share the same sentiments. Instead, he diverted my attention away from him and now, to you. At first, I was not sure about my feelings towards but as the days and weeks passed by I gradually fell in love with you. Unfortunately, I was never able to tell you, until now." Washu: The new party game, Musical obsessions Once again, Aeka stood up from where she sat and crouched in front of Tenchi, she gently held on to both of his hands and gazed into his eyes. Tenchi did not flinch at Aeka's sudden boldness he carefully listened on. "Tenchi, ever since I met you my heart has grown to love you. I know that you were unable to tell me anything at all about your feelings towards me it was mainly due to the fact that Ryoko and myself are constantly fighting over you. It has been that way for the past two years and now..." Aeka was suddenly quiet, struggling to hold back any involuntary tears. "And now, what? Aeka?" Tenchi asked. Aeka thought adamantly. Aeka regained her composure. "And now, things will be different from this conversation and on. Ever since you were gone with Ryoko at Naroda beach, I knew that things will never be the same. All: Us too I must ask you this question and my request." "Request?" "You will know soon enough." Tenchi readied himself as Aeka contemplated. Aeka introspected. "Tenchi, do you love Ryoko?" Tenchi was caught off guard by Aeka's question. "Aeka, I, I..." He studdered. "Please, Tenchi, this is a yes or no question. Do you love her?" Tenchi looked away from Aeka's gaze, for a long silent minute Tenchi did not say one word as he thought. As time rolled by, Aeka held her heart with a tight grip waiting for Tenchi's reply. "Yes." Ryoko: (Grabs Tenchi and kisses him until he passes out from lack of oxygen) "T-Tenchi..." Aeka faltered a bit, without shedding a tear. She looked away from Tenchi. "I'm, I'm sorry Aeka." Aeka immediately gazed at Tenchi with bold amethyst eyes. "No! Do not ever say you are sorry! You did very well. I thank you for being honorable by staying honest and truthful." "Being 'honorable' doesn't really excuse me for having to make you wait on me for nearly two years." "Tenchi, a few minutes ago, I mentioned to you about a request." Tenchi: (Grogily wakes up) Ryoko: (Looks very proud of herself) "Yes?" Aeka was hesitant but regained her mindset. "Tenchi, you must keep this between us. Nobody must not know about it." "Alright." "Tenchi..., will you..." Aeka looked away, struggling to keep her tears from welling up. "Will I, what? Aeka?" "Will you kiss me?" Tenchi: (Begins writing his will) Tenchi did not respond. For a silent moment, he gazed at her. Aeka held Tenchi's hands grasping them tighter. "I know, it is a very bold request but please, all I want is piece of you before I move on. Just to feel what it feels like to have your lips against mine. Your touch... Please, I need a little piece of heaven before I realize my reality." Tenchi didn't say a word. Instead, he stood up from his chair and wrapped his arms around Aeka. They held each other tight. Instead of tears of sorrow, Aeka cherished the moment she had longed for. She knew she didn't have time to be sad, finally, after a day and a half of lingering on a thread of anxiety. The loose thread has been tied. Tenchi looked at Aeka and ran his hands down her face. Aeka closed her eyes as she sensed his hands caressing her cheeks. Tenchi slowly placed his lips on Aeka's. Aeka felt warmth and wholesomeness through the shared contact. Aeka hugged Tenchi even tighter and felt his soft lips. After five cherished-eternal minutes Aeka broke away from Tenchi's lips. Ryoko: Five minutes! I'll kill him! (Prepairs to kill Tenchi) Tenchi: I love you Ryoko: Aw man (Sits back) She stepped away from him and walked towards the door. She placed her fingers along her lips and smiled in a bitter-sweet manner. Gene: I guess it's genetic "Aeka..., what is to going to happen now? Are you going to leave earth?" "No, not yet. I must make peace before doing so." Gene: I'm telling you she's going to blow up the planet! Tenchi understood and nodded. Ryoko and Washu Aisha: They're right here Inside the warm environment of the floating Onsen, Ryoko walked around the different sets of bathing pools, she planned on adding a new feature. Washu: (Slips Ryoko the shower massager) In her hands she held the blueprints to the onsen, Aisha: Aliens are big on actual blueprints, trust me ready to make some new modifications for the construction of the onsen's new feature, a Jacuzzi. Ryoko paused for a few moments and thought about all the events that occurred during her date with Tenchi. From rescuing a kid's life to nearly losing her own. Washu: That about covers it Ryoko thought about the weird irony of being the Rescuer turned rescuee. Clayton: (sings the theme to Rescue Rangers) Others: (Stare at him) Clayton: (slips down in his seat quietly) And then, she thought about the one thing that really made the date worthwhile... Aisha: The ice cream? Tenchi: The dolphins? Washu: Goro? The hat? What? Ryoko initially thought. Ryoko tiredly sighed. Gene: Considering how many times they've all sighed in this I'm not surprised "Well, well, hello Little Ryoko." Said Washu, sitting in one of the warm pools. Tenchi: Wait... that's the cold pool Ryoko: Mom! Washu: What? I'm twenty thousand years old and in the body of a twelve year old. A little bladder control is the least of my worries Startled by a second presence, Ryoko quickly calmed down. "Oh, it's just you, Washu." "Just me? What ever happened to hello?" "Okay, fine. Hello." Washu sighed. "Sarcasm, sarcasm. So..." "So, what?" Clayton: Just the conversation you'd expect from a genius "How was your date with Tenchi? Or do I have to wring it out of you with a neural vice?" Washu: Note to self: invent neural vise Ryoko looked away painfully at Washu's question. Ryoko: Oh I see, this is a comic book! That explains the word bubbles "What's wrong?" "I don't know...I just don't know." "What do you mean by that? What happened out there?" Ryoko quietly answered Washu's question through the mind-link. Through the long minutes of silence, Washu rode the memories of events which occurred during Naroda beach. Washu saw the images of the Beach hunk, the dolphins, the rescuing of a young boy, the dance with Tenchi, sensations of drowning, Tenchi rescuing and kissing Ryoko... Washu pulled away from the mind-link and studied Ryoko for few moments. While waiting for Washu's reaction, Ryoko decided to soak her feet into one of the nearby pools. Ryoko: Not that one! As she sat down and dunked her feet into the warm waters. All: Ew! "It looks like you had a really full day." Washu said, breaking the silence. "Yeah, you can say that." "So what happened after the kiss?" "Nothing. Absolutely, nothing." Ryoko replied looking down. "You mean, Tenchi didn't say a word of it?" Ryoko nodded solemnly. "Nothing at all? Did you say anything to him?" Ryoko shook her head negatively. Gene: Uncharacteristcaly quiet "Why didn't you?" "I don't know..., I figured I've been too aggressive with him lately and..." All: LATELY!?! "And what?" "I don't know, I finally reached this far, and yet...I don't know what's next between Tenchi and myself. What do I do now?" Washu: I'll get you a pamphlet "Hmmm. That's a good question, Ryoko. What do you do now?" "I don't know! I'm asking you, am I? Aren't you the number one genius scientist of the universe?" Ryoko yelled out. Ryoko: Ok, now that is not very realistic "Let me ask you this, why are you so nervous? I've never seen you like this before." "I'm not sure why I'm so nervous. Huh. Look at me, I'm actually trembling." "What's the core of all your anxiety?" Ryoko thought about Washu's question for a moment and looked down into the water. "Fear." "Fear? Fear of what?" Gene: The boogy man Clayton: You mean Noboyuki Gene: No that guy who waits under beds and in closets waiting to grab... yeah Noboyuki "I'm afraid that, this is all too good to be true and somehow, everything will not turn out the way I originally I hoped for." "Ooh, I see. I guess I can understand your anxiety abit." "Oh really? Then tell me, genius. What do you know of my anxiety?" Washu: We read each other's thoughts you dope! Washu pulled her feet out from the water and stood up. "Well, since you asked, I might as well tell you. You were imprisoned in that cave for Seven hundred years." Ryoko shuddered at the word 'cave'. Tenchi: You should see what she does when you say 'ketchup' Ryoko: Excuse me (Runs down the hall) Yes yes oh gods yes! (Comes back wearing new pants) "Please don't remind me." "For all those years you had no way of contacting the outside world but the most you were able to achieve is being able to observe what's going on outside the cave. Correct?" Gene: Is that your final answer? Ryoko shook her head affirmatively. "Then, one day, you see a baby boy named Tenchi Masaki. Now, I wonder, what is it about him that had you interested in him in the first place?" Ryoko smiled a bit , she closed her eyes and thought about Tenchi when she first laid eyes on him. "Even though people did pass by the cave, Tenchi was different, he was able to feel my presence. He was the only one who saw me. Ever since seeing that beautiful baby boy, I vowed to meet him and to love him." Aisha: Ok, I'm dating a 12 year-old but this is a bit much Ryoko: (Shrugs) "You watched Tenchi Masaki grow from a baby to a handsome young man and then you tried to find a way to escape from the cave. Through the years, as you searched for a way out, your body started to decay as a result of using all your energy. And then disaster struck, Tenchi was inside the cave, exploring." "Please don't remind me! He wasn't even supposed to see me as a mummy!" Ryoko shouted covering her ears. "okay, okay. I'll skip that part." Ryoko lightened up. "Thank you." "So finally, you meet Tenchi." Washu continued on. "Of course, I won't comment on your first approach. Tenchi: On the plus side we were all given our diplomas because they thought it was a gas leak Gene: If not you'd have been the prime suspect, moving out into the woods like that Clayton: And when you tried to explain the aliens that would have been it He thought you were going to kill him, which basically, made your chances even slimmer. To make things worse, you had rivals for Tenchi's love. Aeka comes along, Mihoshi, and maybe even Sasami. Washu: And me Your chances with Tenchi gets slimmer and slimmer. That's how it is, until yesterday, when he first kissed you." "You make it sound so simple." "Why should it be so difficult?" "I see your point." Ryoko: (Tugs on Washu's hair) "So what now? What are you going to do about your relationship with Tenchi?" Ryoko contemplated for few silent minutes. Finally she pulled her feet out of the water and faced Washu. "I think I better go talk to him, instead of me waiting on him." "Sounds good to me. Try not to be too aggressive with him, ok?" Ryoko: Who me? All: Yes, you! "Hey! You don't have to remind me! I think I'm a little mature since then." Ryoko snarled. Washu was silent then the red-head smiled at her daughter. "Thanks." "Anytime, Little Ryoko." Ryoko ignored the title 'Little' and made her way towards the door of the onsen. "Oh! By the way, Ryoko!" Ryoko impatiently turned around. "Yes? What is it now?" "I almost forgot to remind to you, can you drop by the lab later on today?" "Sure, I guess. What time?" "Sometime this evening, right after dinner." "Alright, I'll be there. But don't try anything funny!" Washu made an innocent face. "What? Little ol' me? I'm harmless!" All: Bullshit! Washu: (Pushes a button) All: Ribbit! "Yeah, right." Ryoko stepped out of the onsen and she made her way towards the Masaki home. Ryoko finally reached the front door and proceeded to open the doorway but as she reached, Aeka stepped out. Both girls bumped into each other painfully. Aeka fell to the floor and Ryoko stumbled backwards. A bit of anger surged through Ryoko but she quickly extinguished the emotion, she walked over to Aeka and helped the princess to her feet. As Aeka stood up, Ryoko noticed the pained look on Aeka's face and was also startled by the fact that Aeka didn't yell at her. Ryoko gazed into Aeka's amethyst eyes and Aisha: Was hypnotised noticed hidden anger, sorrow, and pain buried within. Aeka looked away from Ryoko and regained her composure. "Th-thank you." Aeka gratified softly and slowly walked off towards the Holy Tree. Clayton: This isn't onme of those cult things is it? Gene: Well Yosho did train them to fight, made them wear robes and worship trees. I'd call that a cult Ryoko gazed with concern as Aeka gradually disappeared into the woods. Instead of going up into Tenchi's room, Ryoko carefully tailed after Aeka. Ryoko: I could do both Other Ryoko: Yeah Aeka Under the bright sun, the Juraian tree; Funaho, provided shadow. Aeka hopped over a few stepping stones and reached the shady area of under the tree. She quietly sat down, closed her eyes, and tears welled up. She asked herself sadly. Aisha: Karma The thought of Tenchi and Yosho, the only men she loved in her life, did not love her. This realization struck her the hardest, the reality of knowing that the two, especially Tenchi, were not interested in her heart's investment. Tenchi: I just don't think beany babies are that cute First of all, she came to earth searching for her beloved fiance, only to find that Yosho had chosen to avoid the throne as well as marrying her. Secondly, Yosho attempted to start a relationship between her and Tenchi. Ryoko: For which I did wedgy him Instead of a flowering relationship, she waited and fought for nearly two years only to have found that Ryoko earned her special place in Tenchi's heart. Twice she had paid the painful price through hope, creating, and fighting. Investing her emotional commitment, her soul, and her chance to experience any real love. All of which hangs in the balance of the men who had made their decision. The only price that Yosho and Tenchi paid for their own happiness was Aeka's sacrifice of her dreams of being ever close to them. Gene: Technicaly they didn't pay for it Aeka began to cry, cursing fate under her anguished breath. Will it ever stop playing cruel games of her emotions? Is she forever condemned in such a cold cycle of hope and sorrow? Clayton: Basicaly Her tears streamed from her eyes even harder, turned pink from pain and frustration. Washu: Ok, now that was weird After a while of silent tears and sorrow, Aeka laid down on her back and watched as the white clouds rolled across the serene the deep blue. As the calm summer wind blew across her face, Aeka took In a breath of fresh countryside air and closed her eyes. As Aeka's mind slowly cleared and relaxed, she focused her thoughts on her first and last kiss from Tenchi. The only good that came from her sacrifice was the fact that Tenchi kissed her out of pure commitment instead of motivated through the sense of obligation. Clayton: Isn't a commitment the same as an obligation? After two years of waiting, she finally received her kiss. Now, thanks to his kiss Aeka's heart is finally free. No more worries of what Tenchi thinks of her because he had already chosen. No longer will she worry about starting a committed relationship because Tenchi has already started one. No longer will she worry about winning or losing a place in Tenchi's heart because Ryoko was already there. She is free. Washu: Well it's hard to sell those things. The Ryokos sell easier "Aeka?" Asked a familiar female voice. Aeka quickly wiped away her sad facade. "Hello, Ryoko." "Were you crying?" "That is not important, right now. I have been wanting to talk you today, Ryoko." Ryoko stood on one of the branches of Funaho, she descended next to Aeka on the ground. As she touched ground, Ryoko noticed the veiled look on Aeka's face and noticed her pinkish face. Ryoko thought to herself. Ryoko: Got ya "Oh? What do you want to talk about?" Aeka internally fought out the words. "Tenchi." "Okay, what about him? Has something happened?" "I will just put this simply to make it easier on me." "Easier on you?" Ryoko asked curiously with concern. "He has chosen to be with you." Ryoko: Wow, she said it Ryoko stood silent not knowing how to react to Aeka's statements. "I asked him myself, he truly does love you." Aeka continued on. " I am proud to say that the fights and quarrels will no longer preside; it is truly over." Ryoko couldn't believe what she was hearing. "Proud? Are you? After two years of struggling to be with Tenchi, you'll just simply take this lightly and just give up?!?" Tenchi: I can live with that "I am trying not to take it so hardly nor am I trying to take this lightly. I am just finally accepting my true destiny. I have been so foolish to let my emotions totally guide me, now, I must place myself back to my true reality." "I, I, don't know what to say Aeka." "No need to say anything, Ryoko. I just need you to promise me one thing." "What?" "Promise me that you will take good care of Tenchi." Ryoko: Oh I take good care oh him Tenchi: Ketchup Ryoko: Bastard (Runs out of the room)Oooooooo! Clayton: Tenchi, you are cleaning that up "Are you trying to tell me that you're leaving?" Aeka suddenly shot an angry look at Ryoko. "Ryoko, that is not important! The matter that we are discussing; is. You must promise me that you will take good care of Tenchi!" "At least tell me why you're giving up so easily! This is not like you , you always give a good fight whenever Tenchi's concerned!" Ryoko yelled back. "Ryoko, please." Aeka begged weakly as she sat on the ground, her shoulders slumped. Tears began to roll down her cheeks. Ryoko felt sympathy for Aeka, never had she ever seen Aeka in such a vulnerable state. Ryoko stood next to the sobbing princess and placed her hand on Aeka's shoulders. Aeka summoned up all her strength and held back the remaining tears. Aeka struggled to speak under her pain. "If it makes you promise, I will tell you why I am giving up." The princess spoke, not looking up at Ryoko. "As I said before, I asked Tenchi who he loved. He told me he loved you. I love Tenchi." Ryoko gently rubbed Aeka shoulder, doing her best to comfort Aeka in some way. Aisha: (Sniffles) "I love Tenchi so much I do not want to burden him any further by fighting you. Don't you see, Ryoko? I am thinking for his well- being. He chose you. With my all my heart, I wish happiness for the both of you." "Aeka, I..." Ryoko struggled abit. "What about your happiness?" Aeka interrupted. "Right now, I am not thinking of myself, I just want You to promise me that you will take good care of him." Ryoko stood silent still rubbing Aeka's shoulder. "Aeka, I promise." "Thank you, Ryoko." Then the silence passed over again between the two girls. "Ryoko?" "Yes, Aeka?" "I need to be alone for awhile, I believe you were on your way to Tenchi's room when we bumped into each other a short while ago. You can go now, our talk here is finished." "Are you sure about that Aeka? Do you still need somebody to talk to?" "I am sure. Please go and talk to Tenchi." "Aeka, please know that I'll always be your friend and that I don't want to fight with you anymore, not over anything. Ryoko: Except the remote "Ryoko, I trust that a new chapter has opened between you and I." "You got that right, princess." All: (blink) Aeka did her best to smile but only managed slightly. "I'll see you around." "Alright." Ryoko turned from Aeka and disappeared into thin air. Ryoko: Copperfield eat your heart out As soon as Ryoko left, Aeka laid back down to the grass and closed her eyes. Clayton: Date Aeka thought. Gene: I have a lollypop here if you want For long while she looked for an answer within. "I am so tired..." Tenchi and Ryoko Ryoko teleported into Tenchi's room and found Tenchi sitting on the side of his bed, his shoulders slumped, he wore a nervous expression. Aisha: Tight fit, but on you it works "Hello, Tenchi." Tenchi immediately looked up at the sound of Ryoko's voice. "Ryoko! I'm sorry for not saying anything to you on the bus." "It's ok, Tenchi. I understand." Ryoko assured. "Tenchi?" "Yes, Ryoko?" "I just spoke with Aeka a few minutes ago." "You did? What did you two talk about?" "Aeka and myself have settled our differences, we won't be fighting over you anymore." "I, I was hoping for that kind of change. Washu: Forgot to bring clean underwear to the beach Clayton: Sand in the shorts All: Yeowch! Ryoko, about last night..." Ryoko thought about the events that took place last night at the beach house and tried hard not to think about them. Tenchi: She's not doing a very good job "Tenchi, please don't mention last night." "No, Ryoko. I have to tell you this. It's very important to me and to you." "Ever since last night, I have never been so worried, I thought I that I would lose you. Ryoko...I..." "You what? Tenchi?" Tenchi fought for the words that harbored his true feelings for Ryoko. "...I...um...I..." Tenchi said and faltered nervously. After a minute or so, Tenchi regained his composure and cleared his throat. "Ryoko, I..." All: Spit it out! "You what?" "I love you. Ever since last night, I couldn't stop thinking about you. I also realized that I couldn't imagine my life without you and the Fact that I almost lost a chance of getting to really love you on a Much more Intimate level. I also want to apologize." "Apologize? For what?" Ryoko asked. "I had you and Aeka waiting on me for all these years. If I was honest from the beginning things could've been different." Washu: Wow two whole years: That is such a long time (Snort) "No, Tenchi. Don't apologize. If I weren't so aggressive and over protective, you wouldn't of felt so much pressure. It should be me who should be apologizing, not you." "Ryoko, don't say such a thing it should be me who should apologize." "No, no Tenchi. I should be apologizing." "Ryoko, I should apologize." "Tenchi, you're wrong, I should apologize." "Don't be foolish Ryoko, I was the core of all the fights and all disappointments, so it should be me." "What?!? Foolish?! Is that what I'm being right now for being considerate?" "No no! That's not what I meant! I was just saying that I should apologize! Not you!" "This is going no where... we're both being way to considerate, so I'll settle this the usual way." "What do you mean? The usual way? ERK!" Ryoko drew her red energy sword and held it at Tenchi's throat. Tenchi and Ryoko: That's the usual way alright "Now Tenchi darling, I apologize for apologizing to you in this threatening manner and I'm sorry for being to aggressive to you. Well? Do you accept my apology?" Tenchi nodded quickly. "Uh...Yes, Ryoko. I accept your apology." Ryoko's sword disappeared with a pop. "Good! Then that's settled." Tenchi sighed in relief and smiled. "You weren't really going to do such a thing, were you? Ow!" Ryoko softly bopped Tenchi's head with her knuckle. "Of course not, silly! I wouldn't dare do a thing! Why would I hurt the love of my life? My most valued treasure." Gene: Apparently "Oh, uh thanks. You still didn't have to hit me." Ryoko: Yes I did Tenchi: Ke- Ryoko: (Slaps a hand over his mouth) "I'm sorry..." Ryoko apologized and softly kissed Tenchi's head. "There! Feel better?" Tenchi smiled sheepishly. "Um, much better. Thanks." "Don't mention it." Canon Meanwhile at Funaho's tree, Aeka began to think about what could have been possible if Tenchi chosen her instead of Ryoko, suddenly Aeka's thoughts were distracted by the sounds of something emerging from the forest. Aeka quickly sat up and spotted Shoji. "Princess Aeka, did I come here at a wrong time?" "No, not really." Aeka replied, then she noticed a peculiar headgear currently held Shoji's hand. "I hope you do not mind me asking but..." "Yes, princess Aeka?" "What is that device you are holding in your left hand?" Aisha: Oh Gene is going to love this Gene: Hahaha! "What? This? Here, let me hand this to you for your closer examination." Gene: This is getting good Shoji held up his gear and walked towards Aeka. As soon as he reached Aeka, he sat down next to her and handed the device to her. Washu: Is this one of mine? Aeka studied at the curious device. The gear resembled a baseball Cap except it had no bill, the material of the cap is combination Of different polymers and metals. The sides of the cap had small Ear flaps and on the front of the cap were attached goggles. Tenchi: (As Shoji) It keeps the aliens out of my brain Washu: Like that would stop me All: (scoot away) "What is this thing, Shoji?" Aeka asked. "That device you're holding is a kind of virtual reality machine." "Really? Where did you get it from?" "It's a gift I received from a long time friend who used to be in the Galaxy Police." Tenchi: Oh so Mihoshi is back "What does it do?" "It's just like any other virtual reality machine but with one exception. Instead of participating in a game, you participate in musical recital. It's mainly a device that gives the wearer a since of participation of any musical engagement. Which also includes any music from any culture within the known universe." Aisha: Except the 70's All: Hooray! "This is very interesting." Aeka said, despite her sadness as she quietly looked for any kind of peace. "Of course, me being me. I only have one music program installed into this little device. Would you like to give this device a try?" "I would love to." "Here, let me help you get started." Shoji scooted closer next to Aeka. Aeka hands the VR music gear to Shoji. The knight places the The device onto Aeka's head, flipped the ear flaps over Aeka's ears And adjusts the viewing goggles to better comfort Aeka's eyes. Clayton: All the better to see you with Next, Shoji reached into his pockets and brings out and extra pair of Goggles and ear plugs. He puts on the devices and plugs himself into the VR music gear. "Shoji, I am ready." Gene: I wish they wouldn't keep getting my hopes up like this "Me too. Ok, I am switching on the device." Shoji presses the power button. Washu: Oh, pacman! Aeka found herself in a cool air-conditioned concert chamber. She Immediately recognized that the architecture of the concert chamber Was Earth origin. As she looked around, Aeka noticed that she was Wearing a black concert dress, Sitting on a concert chair. Tenchi: I'm pretty sure there is no such chair or dress Aeka also found herself sitting in the center of a huge circle composed of the Earth String Orchestra. She saw many individuals holding the same instrument of various sizes, mainly, the viola. Aisha: You mean violens? Clayton: (Pulls a cabbit out of his hat) Viola! The orchestra had nothing but string instruments, cellos and various violas. To her surprise, she saw Shoji sitting from across her, sitting at the harpsichord and wearing a black Tuxedo. "What shall I do next, Shoji?" "Just sit back, listen, and just let the music soothe you." Shoji Washu: So this is the high tech version of Ruffies? said and turned towards the violinists. "Pachebel's Canon in D minor, String Orchestra." In response to Shoji's commands, the entire string orchestra readied their instruments. Shoji begun the first notes of the score with slow welcoming notes then the strings started to play along with him. [Listen to Canon! Aisha: He's awfully pushy And for those who are not into classical music just think of that one special music that makes you feel at ease whether it being rock, rap, country, or whatever. Gene: Does Weird Al count? When reading this section think of that one special song that makes you relax despite whatever hell you went through. Washu: We aren't talking about Aeka anymore are we? You sir need help ] Aeka closed her eyes. As the music piece continued its play, the calming and soothing quality alleviated Aeka of the stresses that plagued her. Dinner "Come and get it! Dinner's ready!" Sasami yelled out throughout the house. In a brief moment, Tenchi ran down the stairs and sat down at his place at the table. "Am I hungry!" Tenchi: Seriously, am I? Tenchi said drooling. "Here's one thing I missed while being at Naroda beach and that's your cooking Sasami!" Aisha: I thought they took it with them. I'm almost positive they did Sasami blushed and giggled. "Thank you, Tenchi!" A minute later Ryoko materialized next to Tenchi, to her surprise Tenchi for once, didn't flinch. < He would usually become nervous but this time, he didn't. Looks like things are changing after all.> Ryoko mentally noted. A moment later Aeka walked into the dining area with Shoji following Close behind. Ryoko observed Aeka's mood and noticed that she looked More calm and content then looking downward. Tenchi noticed as well. Aeka sat down next across the table from Tenchi instead of next to him And proceeded to eat her dinner. Aisha: Decent of her but where will Shoji sit? As dinner progressed, Sasami broke the silence. "Guess what!" "What's up Sasami?" Asked Ryoko. "I have a great idea on what we can do next week! It's going to be fun!" "What is it kiddo?" Ryoko asked again. "Let's all go back to Planet Jurai! The Startica festival is going to start and I would sure hate to miss it this year!" Ryoko: Oh no, that means Mayuka again "You are right Sasami, let us all go back home to Jurai and celebrate the festivities." Aeka stated with a slight smile. "After all, it is the 10,000th Annual celebration of Startica." Washu: The first one wasn't that great "Why not? Let's try something different!" Tenchi Exclaimed. Then he caught Ryoko's nervous expression. "What's wrong, Ryoko?" "Well, I would love to go to Jurai but there's just this one little detail. Wouldn't there be anybody who is still bound to carry some bad grudge against me? It's only been 700 years since I raided Jurai. I'm not sure if they would just simply forget about that little incident." "Yeah but it wasn't your fault that you raided Jurai. You were under Kagato's control." Tenchi retorted. "I know, still, those were done by my actions. I don't know." "Ryoko, do not worry of such things." "Why not Aeka?" "Because, the Jurai royal family gave you a full pardon with the approval of the Juraian Council. The council is a Diplomatic government body. All decisions and laws are approved by not the will of the representatives but by the people of Jurai. So I would not worry about it." Gene: (Dozes off) "Okay, if you say so. Then I'll go along." Ryoko agreed apprehensively. "YIPEE!! We're all going to Jurai!" Sasami said happily. "When do we depart for Jurai?" asked Tenchi. Aisha: Nobody ever includes Yosho or Noboyuki in these decisions "Within two days the Festival will start in five days and will last for a week." And so, dinner passed by without incident with something to look forward to in two days. Washu's Favor Ryoko floated into the pseudo-lab and thought about Tenchi. She found Washu busy at the holocomputer-console. Washu ceased her typing and turned around to find Ryoko. "Ah! You're here!" "Of course, I'm here!" Ryoko said with a hint of annoyance. "You asked me to be here didn't you? so, what's up?" "Oh nothing much, I need you to help me for on my little research." Ryoko: Uh oh "What are you working on?" "I'm just testing out this new data-entry program for the holocomputer database." Ryoko walked up behind Washu and curiously peered over her shoulder to take a peek at the new program. Washu sneaked a glance through the corner of her eye and beamed slightly. Unaware, Ryoko leaned forward To take a closer study. "Hmm..." Ryoko commented softly as possible. "Interested?" Ryoko was caught off guard a bit and straightened up. "No, of course not. Why should I be?" Gene: Her porno collection Aisha: Let it go Gene Washu sighed. "Why do you need me here?" "I just need you to transfer a couple of files from the original database into the new one." "And what are you doing while I'm conducting all this data-entry?" "I need to go feed the lab specimens. Do as much as you can, I'll be back in a few minutes." Washu stated as she stood up from her floating chair. "Um, alright." Ryoko said unexcited and frowned, she sat down on Washu's chair and started her data-entry. Washu left Ryoko and walked around a corner, she grabbed her mini- camcorder. Though the camcorder's viewer, Washu watched as Ryoko transferred data into the installed mock database which was actually a test program. Ryoko: That's it! I'm getting a restraining order! Ryoko looked bored as ever as she tapped at the keyboard slowly with her right fore-finger. After a few minutes of recording Ryoko, Washu stepped out from behind the corner. Pretending to be exhausted, Washu let out a tired-like breath. "Phew! Man, that was tiring! Those lab specimens can get really hungry these days." Tenchi: If that's what she does they're probably all dead "I'm sure they would, since you only feed them once a month. Can I go now?" "Oh sure, Ryoko! Thanks for your help." Ryoko thought curiously. Ryoko stood up from her chair and headed toward the lab exit. "Yeah, ok. I'll see you around. OH!" Ryoko turned around nearly forgetting Sasami's favor. "Yes, Ryoko?" "Just wanted to let you know, Planet Jurai is holding their annual Startica Festival. You should come along since the whole crew will be heading there. Well? Would you like to tag along?" "Sure! Why not! It's been awhile since I ever had any space travel. Thanks for asking me!" Clayton: Well you needed to get out "No problem. Ok, I gotta go. See you around." Washu watched as Ryoko exited the lab. After a moment of waiting, the coast is cleared, Washu beamed wildly and turned her attention towards the holo-computer display. She typed in a few commands and the screen flickered with the results of Ryoko's I.Q. Test. "Very interesting..." Washu said contently. "looks like she's very well compatible." Washu sits down in front of the computer and starts to tally up Ryoko's test results. Night Fall In the dark bedroom, Tenchi laid in bed for the past two hours, he tossed and turned fighting for a way to go to sleep. Next to him, Ryoko slept peacefully, she still had the lingering effects of The drowning incident, mainly fatigue. Tenchi: Uh yeah, the drowning. That's it "Ugh., I can't sleep..." Tenchi carefully removed himself out from bed, trying extra hard not to wake up Ryoko. As Tenchi stood up, Ryoko rolled to her side. "Tenchi..." She whispered in her sleep. Tenchi smiled and bent over to move her bangs aside, he kissed her forehead. He headed towards the stairs for the kitchen. As he walked down the flight of stairs he noticed that the lights were On In the kitchen. As he stepped closer, he started to hear a person Humming a light tune. Clayton: Don't they even let Sasami sleep? Tenchi stepped through the kitchen doorway. "Aeka?" "Lord Tenchi? What are you doing up so late?" "I was about to ask you the same thing, I was down here hoping to grab maybe a midnight snack to help myself to sleep. And you?" "I was also not able to sleep." "Oh? What's been keeping you up?" "Today was a very emotional day for me. I went through worry, sorrow, and anger." Tenchi suddenly looked hurt and guilt-ridden. "I'm, I'm sorry to Put you through that Aeka." "Let me finish, Tenchi. As of now, by miraculous circumstances, I feel as though that I have a new sense of optimism towards my own well being." "You do seem happier than you were this afternoon." "You think so?" Aeka asked. Tenchi nodded. "What changed your mood?" Aeka smiled and looked at Tenchi straight in the eye. "The thought Of returning home to Jurai for Startica and..." "And what?" "...and Canon." "Canon? What do you mean by that?" Aisha: Look at Noboyuki's car and you'll see "Well, this afternoon, Shoji introduced me to one piece of Earth Classical music and I must say. It had quite an effect on me." Gene: Like that ketchup thing Ryoko: (Whimpers and crosses her legs) Washu: (Does the same) I love telepathy! "How so?" "Let me just say that you do not have to worry about me. I suggest you go back to bed and try to get some sleep." Aeka said with a warm smile. "Well, Goodnight Aeka. I hope you get some night's sleep as well." Tenchi Stepped over to Aeka and gives her the goodnight's hug. Aeka separated from Tenchi. "Don't worry I will. Goodnight, Tenchi." "Goodnight, Aeka." As Tenchi left the kitchen, Aeka's smile disappeared as quickly as it appeared. To be continued... Tenchi: Is it over? Clayton: Almost Forevermore Original Japanese Lyrics: Natsuko Karedo Composed & Arranged by Seikou Nagaoka Vocal: Ai Orikasa Feel the wind... feel the sun And our new day has only begun On the sand... by the sea It's a peaceful oasis made for you and for me Take my hand... This place was always waiting This beauty all around us The air intoxicating Just like the love that found us * Let's forget who we've been And give into the dream Maybe life is a song That's how it seems... And forevermore we'll hear the music play Yes forevermore I'll take you in my arms this way And forevermore we'll know the melody We will sing forevermore, just like the peaceful sea Past the clouds... past the sky We can only imagine what great mysteries lie Other moons... other stars Close your eyes and together we'll go wandering far Take my hand... This miracle's undying It never will forsake us We'll always keep on flying Wherever love may take us (* Repeat) All: (Repeat the song) Author's Notes: I would like to give special Thanks to Akodo X for providing the lyrics of Forevermore. VERY Special thanks goes out to my editor, Minset and to my online editor Random. And to my Pre-readers, RyokoMR, Cman, and BGlanders. All: (Leave)