But first the disclaimer:
Tenchi Muyo! (All good things.) is a full length novel By Dreaming Bear.
This story is rated M for mature. (Adult situations and language.) Don't say you weren't warned!
The following story is a work of fiction. Any similarity between persons, living or dead, groups or organization is purely coincidental. Excepting certain instances when it constitutes a fair public use of same.
'Tenchi' and all related characters and material are the property of their respective holders (see below.) Moreover, are being used here currently without expressed or implied permission.
Thus, this story can not be used for profit. If you have been charged money for this work, understand you have been duped. At the time of this writing, this story exists as a demonstration of the literary abilities of the author and was not created initially for profit or as a challenge to any intellectual properties. Please consider it a work of alternate or fan fiction. You have permission to of course view but not to distribute this work.
"Tenchi Muyo!" and characters were created by Hiroki Hayashi and Masaki Kajishima, and is the property of AIC/Nippon Television, Geneon Entertainment and FUNimation Entertainment.
Dedication;
To John Caldwell, anime curmudgeon.
To Johnny Haze; Grammarian and picky person extraordinare.
To Pat Stutzman and Michel, may her kingdom reign.
To Patrick Stowe, lord of the rant.
To Crystal who in many ways is my Tsunami.
And finally to David Attkinson; The friend I used to pray for.
Day 1: part 1: 'No need' for introductions.
It is an idyllic setting.
Wispy clouds of cotton, wander unhurried across a sky of tranquil blue. A bright azure dome which stands an eternal vigil over a vista of lush rolling hills and wide fertile valleys.
Modest streams and placid lakes below complete a picture perfect landscape.
Casting silver reflections in turn of that same eternal sky.
From our current lofty vantage, sailing unimpeded over all which lies below.
We turn after some moment's observation to one valley in particular.
A geographic oddity to say the least, set apart in possessing a curious almost symmetrical 'bowl shape'.
The location's abstractions are compounded as we draw ever near.
Our captive view almost instantly seeking amid the expected lush dappling of surrounding green, an oddity amid oddities.
In the form of a single mammoth tree.
Majestically rising, this arboreal colossus stands apart. Providing solidity out of sheer size to its own peninsula where the latter protrudes on to a modest lake, situated just towards valley center, as we draw ever near.
Weaving downwards unimpeded through the spreading branches.
Our chosen path passes in transit and curious glance, a collection of pale ropes.
Each, in turn meticulously woven to lengths sufficient to girdle the base here of so massive a tree.
Noting also at this point in our progress other bits of cloth and paper, tied to the odd branch here and there as well.
An additional visual puzzle to the uninformed eye as we continue away.
Drifting low and unhurried now over curious broken sections of what appears to be wood seen just below, though long since petrified. Melding crookedly as is natures way with portions of the trees still living base.
The remnants of some structure is noticeable from this point in our observations as well.
Presented as shapes numerous and broken, jutting haphazardly here and again above and below the placid waters line about the lake's edge. Silently attesting at some cataclysm rendered distant by the passage of time.
Muted by a lush carpet of early green. All noted in passing as we turn at last outward.
Sliding away over more sections of ancient 'once wood' to where it now blends harmoniously with carefully cobbled stonework. Joining in its turn, over a modest distance eventually to a more modern paved byway.
Providing efficient means for small carts and similar light traffic, winding unhurried along its course through and at last out of the valley bowl.
It is here at last that we then pause. Only for that instant however as the quiet murmur of water and wind must recede. Eclipsed by sound of breath and footfalls, that diverts our attention.
For it is along this winding flat black ribbon of rock, that a lone figure runs.
...
It is now barely past February here and while the air still quite brisk, a young woman has chosen shorts and an abbreviated top for her morning exercise.
Aside ogling her porcelain skin and other devastating attributes as we obligingly pursue.
A casual observer might also note a stylized representation of the standard roman characters 'G and P' emblazoned offside on her cropped half shirt.
Moving swiftly along, she meets the morning chill with indifference at best.
The healthy rocking of her stride, transforming her tied back waist length blue black hair into a shimmering silken pendulum.
Long well muscled legs chew up the distance. Insuring it is not long before her course, winding around and through the hills, brings her suddenly to a wide terrace.
Upon arrival, our young beauty immediately pivots, swiftly descending the lower flight of an ancient run of well-maintained steps.
Select portions of her anatomy, rebounding delightfully in the way of all young females as she takes the last three steps at a bound before following a low wider path to her right.
Continuing parallel along a low courtesy wall dividing modest rest stop behind, from a section of modern black top curving away in both directions.
Vaulting effortlessly over low wall to tarmac hardly slackens her speed as her progress along the paved road brings her in short order along side the presence of a split rail fence.
Even at this distance, the main house of estate requiring the fence is impressive. Presenting a blend of classic Japanese with a definite modern European edge.
Multiple roof lines are blended skillfully together creating an appealing overall package, which is both stylish and comfortable. A predominately-red roof sets it and its outbuildings apart from where they are nestled comfortably beneath the not too distant hills and the placid lake expanse oddly almost at its back door.
All taken without apparent notice as the young woman's pace quickly takes her past.
The pastoral swaths of early green giving way to rolling fields as the black top upon which she runs sparkles in a slight morning frost.
If indeed someone were following, such an observer might now notice she is barely winded, in spite of this ten-mile run, beginning well before dawn.
Despite this, it is during this point in our observation that we see her begin to slow.
Casting about as she is slowing with her large expressive, almost cobalt blue eyes.
Indicating clearly she has heard, something? When finally she at last comes to a dead stop.
"Meow! Meow!" Resounds now audibly in the distance.
Bringing a smile at an all too familiar sound to the young woman's lips as she then turns.
Striding off road, into the bordering field towards its source.
Were they present, the oft-mentioned hypothetical observer surely would now be standing agog.
Witnessing the girl running to rendezvous with the young woman.
At a petite five foot two she sports long predominately chestnut brown hair. Accented with broad pronounced white and black streaks, the girls mane not so much grows as explodes away from a decidedly cat like face.
Large oval yellow eyes with long, high side swept ears that definitively taper add to fine delicate whiskers which compound her feline aspect.
A pair of turquoise bib overalls with carrot motif compliments a bright orange shirt. Rounding off her all together remarkable appearance.
Yet she crosses the field with a demeanor that would melt the most cynical heart. Literally sprinting in her excitement to give greetings.
"Meow! Meow!" She repeats, hopping the last furrow separating them.
Throwing arms around the young woman, her eyes closed in blissful abandonment.
An embrace returned, with less overall enthusiasm but genuine affection none the less.
"Good Morning, Ryo-chan!" The woman laughs happily, releasing herself after a few moments. Patting her beaming companion's head.
"And how is our Ryo-Oki this fine morning?"
"Meow!" Ryo-chan replied enthusiastically, large yellow eyes shining brightly.
"Kiyone!" Another voice suddenly called. Promoting the woman turn to face the distant speaker.
The young galaxy policewoman started moving slowly then, deeper into the field with Ryo-Oki in tow position.
As she approached her immediate goal, Kiyone Makibi found she couldn't help some wistful speculating.
After all, standing at an easy six and a half feet in height Tenchi Masaki was a fine figure of a man.
Having grown considerably since his and key's first meeting, he was now easily the size of his father Nobuyuki.
"Almost daily rigorous training plus continuous toil in the fields will tend to do that sort of thing." She mused.
Admiring the fine network of cords and veins standing out on his bare young arms, where he stood holding a gardening hoe like it was a quarterstaff.
"At ease soldier!" Kiyone laughed smiling as she slowed her final approach.
"After all I'm not Ryoko!" She concluded.
Her smile widened as his evaporated, indicating the remark had struck home.
"And, just what is that supposed to mean?" He shot back, in a tone that was mild with outrage.
"Sorry, sorry!" Key said, her eyes gleaming mischievously. Raising both her hands, patting the air between them in a warding gesture.
"It's just, when you 'primp' like that." Kiyone added.
"Wha?" Tenchi mouthed, glancing down at himself before returning his gaze. Staring at her slightly aghast.
"Oh! I was not!" He added disgustedly.
"Were too!" Kiyone smiled impishly, nodding with glee.
"Was not!" Tenchi replied. Almost rising to her bait.
Before realizing with a start, how utterly childish the exchange sounded.
"Oh! Grow up Key!" He finished crossly.
It never ceased to amaze Tenchi when she decided to turn playful like this!
Normally, especially in mixed company Kiyone was always so serious and... well, professional.
Still, it did please him she'd become comfortable enough with their friendship to finally let her hair down.
One odd thing though, whenever she turned like this she reminded him a lot of Ryoko!
Though he would never admit that to either one of them!
"So, Ryo-chan?" Kiyone asked coyly leaning down to face Ryo-Oki.
"Don't 'you' think Tenchi looks nice with all of his big bulging muscles? Hmmmm?"
"Hey!" Tenchi instantly snapped, trying to intervene as Ryo-Oki's eyes widened.
"Don't go dragging her into your perverted little fantasies!"
"Silence!" Kiyone commanded mildly.
She knew from experience she had gotten about as much 'rise' out of him she could expect.
Not willing to 'let go' just yet however, she waved her hand his general direction while Ryo-Oki chewed her lip.
As the young cabbit girl's eyes fell to the ground.
Small hands clasping suddenly together bumping nervously against her knees.
She then slowly glanced up. Her expressive golden eyes shooting immediately earthward again upon catching Tenchi's gaze.
The coyest of little smiles materializing on her down turned face. Before, ever so slowly she stole a sly second glance upward.
"Meow." She affirmed quietly, eyes yet again seeking ground as one of her feet slid behind the other while she stood there, fidgeting.
"How can anyone blush through a face covered with fur?" Kiyone looked on in amazement.
Yet somehow, Ryo-Oki managed it.
"Damn it!" Tenchi swore privately, feeling the heat in his own face rising.
The ability to embarrass the living hell out of him was yet another trait Key shared with Ryoko!
Kiyone watched with relish her grin returning with a vengeance, as color became evident in Tenchi's astonished face.
Then unable to contain it any longer she finally burst out laughing.
"I'd really wish someone would please tell me what I've done to warrant this!" He grumbled after some moments.
Eyeing the ground angrily though, he was more miffed at himself than at her really.
Mostly because he had once again as always allowed her to get his goat.
Kiyone allowed him to 'stew for a moment longer before at last shaking her head.
"Ok, I'm sorry." She laughed affectionately, watching him fume.
Lilting her face to one side, causing her long train of hair to swing in a shimmering arc as she tried to meet his down turned gaze.
"Is it my fault you're so much fun to tease?" she asked him earnestly.
In response Tenchi angrily rammed his hoe's blade deep into the rich earth.
"Terrific!" He muttered sullenly, turning away.
"Everybody's strait man!"
"Aww, come on Misaki." Kiyone said. "You shouldn't feel that way."
She actually found his 'pouting' rather endearing. His only response however was to survey the field in 'miffed' silence.
"I certainly hope you know I have only the utmost respect for you." Key added sincerely, unable however to completely banish the grin.
Glancing finally at her sideways, Tenchi tightly flashed the briefest of sarcastic smirks before again turning away. His expression settling into his usual frown.
"You know, Katsuhito's right?" Kiyone sighed after a moments further observation.
You take everything far too seriously." She added while reaching over, patting Ryo-Oki's head.
"Someone around here has to Key." He said quietly, shifting his gaze again. Fixing her with a decidedly sour expression.
"And no one else seems to be volunteering!" Tenchi added adamantly.
"Jeez..." Kiyone muttered, realizing she had unintentionally struck a nerve.
"One of these days I'll learn." She considered quietly.
Even she had to admit however that Tenchi was asked to carry quite a bit on his shoulders.
"Fortunately though," Kiyone added mentally, again admiring his powerful young form.
"They seemed to be growing to more than meet the demand!" She allowed herself a slight pause.
"Almost, matching the size of his heart."
"I know." She offered softly. Reaching carefully for the discarded spay, then pulling it from the ground.
"The past few years haven't been easy on you." Kiyone added, while inspecting the business end of the implement.
Absently noting that it had been, recently sharpened.
"But, look on the bright side." She continued, brightening.
"It's certainly never dull around here!"
Tenchi found he couldn't help but smile at that remark!
"That's true." He said sardonically, Starting mildly as just right then something bumped his leg.
Glancing down, Tenchi immediately identified one of his two field baskets floating next to him a few inches off the ground.
Briefly he fixed Ryo-chan with a look of mild disapproval. Wagging a finger her direction as the basket settled promptly to the ground with her smiling in response.
It was a dazzling display of telekinetic power. Considering her other abilities however reaching out over fifty yards and levitating a tool-laden basket to Tenchi's side constituted less than nothing.
"Though sometimes..." He said, again turning serious.
"I wish someone would just stop the merry-go-round and let me off Key!"
"You don't really mean that." Kiyone replied, shaking her head wearily. Which caused her hair to sway back and forth in a manner Tenchi found most appealing.
"I've come to know you well enough to believe you just might miss…"
Kiyone trailed off, prompting his gaze upon her to steady.
"Yeah?"
"Sasami's cooking." She finished with a smile.
"That's a given, isn't it?" He laughed. Wondering briefly what it was Key had obviously chosen not to say?
With a resined sigh Tenchi then bent, lifted and shouldered his basket. Considering at that point that whatever it was that she had decided to not mention, he was probably grateful she'd shown restraint.
He then nodded to Ryo-Oki, her signal to bolt off excitedly to gather the rest of their tools.
"And since we are being so honest about it all of a sudden." Tenchi continued, smiling wistfully while marveling at how far Ryo-chan had already managed to sprint.
"I don't think I'd really change a thing."
Kiyone merely shrugged, smiling back at him and the answer that she already knew.
"Well Except..." Tenchi amended, just as he was about the process of turning the general direction of the road.
"Maybe just maybe... the house getting trashed every time YOUR partner comes back from some trip to space!"
He again found himself pausing, noting Kiyone seemed suddenly to be 'elsewhere' having adopted a rather blank expression.
"Something wrong?" He asked concerned. Because she was now looking around back toward the road in the general direction of Masaki shrine.
"Where is she?" Key asked rhetorically, as a certain 'absence' she was referring to also dawned on him.
"Mihoshi was right behind me a while ago!" She finished, confirming they were both on the same page.
"Come to think of it." Tenchi muttered, now watching the road intently.
"I did see her right behind you on your last lap!"
They shared a single glance which spoke volumes before Tenchi put down his burden just shy of actually dropping it.
Turning as one they then sprinted towards the road while Ryo-Oki distantly inquired.
"Meyow?"