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. 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 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, 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." 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?" "Yeah, she did. Ryoko was with me throughout the trip but as soon as the bus stopped, she just disappeared." "I...see." Aeka replied. "Well, I gotta go and unpack." "Alright. I will talk to you later, there is something I wish to discuss with you...in private." "Okay, that's fine. When?" "Will it be alright if I see you in ten minutes?" "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 ." "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. "What are you going to speak to him about?" "I hope to accomplish one important thing." "What is it that you hope to accomplish?" "First and foremost, I hope to achieve resolution." "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?" 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 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, 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. 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. "I guess the reason why you're here is to find out what happened between Ryoko and myself at Naroda Beach, right?" 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..." 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." 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?" After a moment of silent thought, Tenchi nodded his head under Aeka's hand. Aeka gave a slight bitter-sweet smile 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?" "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." 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. 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." "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." "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 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. She stepped away from him and walked towards the door. She placed her fingers along her lips and smiled in a bitter-sweet manner. "Aeka..., what is to going to happen now? Are you going to leave earth?" "No, not yet. I must make peace before doing so." Tenchi understood and nodded. Ryoko and Washu Inside the warm environment of the floating Onsen, Ryoko walked around the different sets of bathing pools, she planned on adding a new feature. In her hands she held the blueprints to the onsen, 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. Ryoko thought about the weird irony of being the Rescuer turned rescuee. And then, she thought about the one thing that really made the date worthwhile... Ryoko initially thought. Ryoko tiredly sighed. "Well, well, hello Little Ryoko." Said Washu, sitting in one of the warm pools. 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?" "How was your date with Tenchi? Or do I have to wring it out of you with a neural vice?" Ryoko looked away painfully at Washu's question. "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. As she sat down and dunked her feet into the warm waters. "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. "Why didn't you?" "I don't know..., I figured I've been too aggressive with him lately and..." "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?" "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. "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?" "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 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'. "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?" 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." "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. 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. 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." "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?" "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!" "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 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. Ryoko gazed with concern as Aeka gradually disappeared into the woods. Instead of going up into Tenchi's room, Ryoko carefully tailed after Aeka. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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? Her tears streamed from her eyes even harder, turned pink from pain and frustration. 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. 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. "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. "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 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?!?" "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." "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. "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, I trust that a new chapter has opened between you and I." "You got that right, princess." 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. As soon as Ryoko left, Aeka laid back down to the grass and closed her eyes. Aeka thought. 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. "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. 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, 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..." "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." "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. "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." "Oh, uh thanks. You still didn't have to hit me." "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?" "What? This? Here, let me hand this to you for your closer examination." 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. 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. "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." "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." "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. 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." "Me too. Ok, I am switching on the device." Shoji presses the power button. 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. 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. 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 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! 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. When reading this section think of that one special song that makes you relax despite whatever hell you went through.] 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 said drooling. "Here's one thing I missed while being at Naroda beach and that's your cooking Sasami!" 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. 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!" "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." "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." "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. "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." "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?" 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 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." "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!" "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. "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. 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?" "Well, this afternoon, Shoji introduced me to one piece of Earth Classical music and I must say. It had quite an effect on me." "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... 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) 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.