The Prince & the Sorceress
Part X: "No Need for Goodbyes"
By claudius
In honor of the 20th anniversary of the New Mutants (created by Chris Claremont & Bob McLeod) and the 10th anniversary of Tenchi Muyo! (created by Masaki Kajishima).
I do own neither series.
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Dani (Psyche) Sam (Cannonball) Amara (Magma) Doug (Cypher)
Illyana (Magik) Roberto (Sunspot) Rahne (Wolfsbane)
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For Tenchi and his friends in both groups, their priority was locating Sasami, Nobuyuki, and Ryo-ohki. Originally, search parties were supposed to be formed into three teams: the first would be Ryoko and Amara, with Sunspot, Ayeka, and Warlock in the second, and Tenchi, Illyana, and Sam working in the third group.
Unfortunately, Ryoko and Ayeka wanted to be with the third group, which shrunk the three groups into two. Just before splitting up though, Ryoko grabbed the gem out of Magma's hand, reintegrating it back to her wrist.
"How barbaric!" claimed Amara over this rude action by Ryoko.
"Oh, at least you don't have to live with her!" Ayeka added out loud.
Roberto than made an interesting question. "Do you think we should still trust Ryoko?"
This was indeed a controversy. Most of the Mutants were not willing to trust a person who had nearly tried to kill them (mind control or not). When Roberto said she was evil, Illyana remarked (rather morosely) that that definition fit her as well. Fortunately, Tenchi was adamant about accepting Ryoko. In his words, it was not her fault things happened as they did, and the pirate was a great help in fighting Kagato. Ayeka said she might as well comply, hiding possible empathy for the demon.
By this time, Rahne had awakened from her unconscious state, giving her friends some relief. Dani noted her friend's apparently quick recovery from being hit by a stone finger. The Professor was right about Rahne's healing factor. The girl asked about what had occurred while she had been unconscious, with an answer that Kagato was defeated. When told about Sasami's disappearance, the Scottish girl decided to help the group search for them, with Dani in tow.
Naturally, the group including Tenchi and the females was the most heated. Except for Sam, everyone present in this party had problems to work out. Ryoko and Ayeka looked on at Tenchi and Illyana. The scene of them kissing was very much solid in their minds. Was this the sign of a future relationship between the two? Ryoko was the most vindictive about this. Ayeka, meanwhile, was conflicted on the thought of whether such a coupling should be possible. For all of Illyana's evil, Ayeka had been just as nasty. The Princess wondered if she herself was deserving of Tenchi. If she was, then Illyana was as well. Ayeka still loved Tenchi as ever, but she realized that if her beloved chose Illyana, she might have to accept it, heart-breaking though that decision was.
Had they been telepathic, Ayeka and Ryoko would have noticed that Tenchi and Illyana were having inner conflicts about this subject as well. The experiences the two had witnessed together had changed everything between them. Tenchi remembered when Illyana kissed him; his emotions for the girl were so great then. In that moment, he did not care about what happened next. He loved her.
Unfortunately, now that the moment had passed, he found that he cared about what was going to happen next. His feelings were so confusing: was he really in love with Illyana, or was it a brief phase? He never felt this way before; He did not know what to think. It was scary. It was strange. It was good. This idea both excited and frightened him. The aftermath also gave him doubts on the definite nature of these feelings. Were the feelings he had ephemeral, passing with the moment? And if it was not, then how was he able to tell his feelings to Ryoko and Ayeka? Both were pretty much attracted to him; they could be hurt. So too would Illyana's heart be also broken, if he found that his feelings for her were superficial. He wished there was a solution that did not require any broken hearts. Why were the answers so hard to find?
Illyana was just as conflicted. The kiss was also in her mind. However, so was that scene of the corrupted Tenchi's wicked smile, and his uncorrupted choice not to kill Kagato. Revelations were now permeable in her mind; it was like a pail of water to the face. There was now the apparent realization that the two of them were really two different people. Tenchi was good; she was evil. The signs had always been present from the moment she first met Tenchi, but she ignored them. Nevertheless, this thought came repeatedly back to her, its attention getting stronger with each coming. Now it had reached the point where there was no way she could ignore it. A future with Tenchi might lead to a repeat performance to what almost had happened. Whether by a spell or presence, there was the chance of corruption. This was a great trouble in the Sorceress' mind. She loved Tenchi, but how could that help him?
After a few minutes of searching, everyone received a message from Professor Xavier. Cypher had managed to get all the codes deciphered, giving back to Washu full control of her Lab. It took even less time for the scientist to locate Sasami, Ryo-ohki, and Nobuyuki. They were back at the Masaki Shrine.
Obviously, questions were made on how those three managed to teleport themselves away from the Lab. A theory Tenchi made was that Tsunami was responsible. His explanation to those in the dark was that Tsunami was a Juraian goddess who had previously saved Tenchi's life during the first battle with Kagato. He added that Tsunami had somehow transported Sasami to Kagato's ship the Soja in that conflict, so it was therefore reasonable that Tsunami repeated this action and got his father and the Princess safely away from the battle area. Washu furthered this theory as solid, an action that made Professor Xavier a little suspicious, as if Washu knew more about the subject then she wished to reveal. At any case, he decided to hide his suspicions.
With help from Washu's own portable dimension simulator, the gang returned to Okayama. The spot was at the Masaki Shrine, where the company saw Lord Katsuhito with Sasami, Ryo-ohki, and a perfectly all right Nobuyuki. Ayeka, Ryoko, Dani, and Rahne were shocked at seeing how swift a recovery Tenchi's father had made, a clear contrast from the mortally wounded character they had previously seen him in. Although no hugs occurred between the father and son, Tenchi was clearly happy to see him okay. Embraces, however, were seen in the actions of Ayeka's sister. A tearful Sasami embraced everyone close to her, especially Washu, whom the girl knew was alive. Everyone noted that the little Princess was acting very emotional. This was not unusual; Sasami was a little girl who had witnessed much in the last two days. It must have been so hard on her.
Nobuyuki seemed enchanted to see 'Pam' again. Before leaving the Lab, Warlock was told to assume his/its human disguise. The techno-being did so, with the addition of forming a hollow hump on his/its back, disguised as a backpack. This was supposed to hide Lockheed from Tenchi's father and grandfather. This act of hiding was also the first time Tenchi actually got a look at the space dragon (he had been too caught with the events to give the critter any notice). The boy accepted its presence; everything had become so weird, he might as well accept it.
Before the father could attempt to talk with the 'lady,' the Mutants directed him to a conversation about his experiences. Mr. Masaki revealed that he did not remember anything from last night. Professor Xavier then gave some explanations to Nobuyuki. There was a battle at the house, but things shortly resolved themselves. The Professor spoke of this without revealing the mutant abilities of his students. With mind-talk, Xavier advised everyone else to support this story.
Too bad no secrecy was made about Tenchi's outfit. Tenchi noticed his grandfather smirking about the unorthodox style he was garbed in. Professor Xavier would have advised the boy about the 'ragamuffin' taste of his black leather clothes, but Tenchi was not his student (an interesting thought he should look into). Tenchi decided that this was the time for a change in clothes. Dani, supported by Rahne, wanted to take Tenchi's lead as well. She had been using her illusion powers to cover up her scantily clad body. She needed some real clothes.
Unfortunately, this led to the matter about the house. In all the confusion, Tenchi, Ryoko, Ayeka, Mihoshi, and the mutants had failed to realize the Masaki residence's present status after last night. The roof had caved in, and there was still smoke and some pungent smells around the foundation. It basically resembled the ruins that Illyana and Tenchi saw in that future. Of course, both were okay about it. At least there were no graves this time. The future had been thwarted. This was not lost on any of the mutants, especially Dani. If Tenchi's future could be changed, the Indian figured, then the future of the New Mutants joining the Hellfire Club may prove just as ephemeral.
However, Nobuyuki, although not remembering the cause, was still unhappy at the condition of his home. Only Tenchi and his alien friends had the knowledge to accept this as a minor setback. Sure enough, the scientific powers of Washu restored the house to its pre-destructive shape. Everyone was astounded by the feat. This made Nobuyuki wonder if Washu can help him make some renovations.*
With one house fixed, the obvious next choice for restoration was the School for Gifted Youngsters. With her computers, Washu scanned her Lab for the building's location. In her search, the scientist told Ayeka that her plant Ryu-oh was safe from Kagato's renovations. When she located the school, she teleported it to surprised eyes. The mansion was compressed into a small, flat object. The Mutants were fascinated by this wonder (thought the Professor was aghast at the condition of his family's home). Dani was stunned to hear about how Kagato stole the entire school (she had failed to believe a previous story about how an alien stole the mansion in a previous incident). How in the world Kagato was able to get Sasami, Rahne, and Lockheed out of such tiny foundations was yet another matter of astonishing revelations that the mutants' wished to know.
Choices were then questioned on how to return this 'object' and the mutants back to New York. Washu wished to use her dimensional simulator, but Tenchi rejected that offer, remembering how a larger version of that device got him into this mess. He wanted any personal use of the device as limited as was possible. Illyana was set against using her teleportation powers for such a distance, which gave Tenchi and Dani some relief. The only option was to use Ryo-ohki. The New Mutants gave their unanimous approval. They thought it would be great (or cool, in Doug's words) to use this peculiar spaceship.
Obviously, some restraint was forcefully exhibited to separate the quarrelsome Lockheed and Ryo-ohki. Their chase continued soon after Lockheed's return to Earth. With one sniff of detection, the dragon flew out of Warlock's 'backpack' to resume the cabbit hunt (Luckily this scene occurred outside, while Nobuyuki was checking the house from the inside). Illyana grabbed the critter, keeping it in check while Ryo-ohki transformed into a ship. This effect definitely put an end to their rivalry. The cabbit's transformation convinced the dragon to respect its foe.
After recovering some lost things like their clothes, and the Juraian kimonos (left behind that night in the mutant's haste), it was time to fly home. Mostly everyone wanted to go with the Mutants to their School grounds in America. It was true that Washu was needed to restore the School, that Ryo-ohki was needed for flight, and that Tenchi had to come to see the resolution of the mutant's predicament. However, the others in Tenchi's circle participated despite their non-importance in the trip. Ryoko and Ayeka did not want to leave Tenchi alone, and Sasami and Mihoshi wanted to come for the ride. So it was that only Nobuyuki and Lord Katsuhito remained in Okayama while everyone else went overseas. The New Mutants were captivated and swooned by the excitement brought on by Ryo-ohki's flight.
Along the way, Ryoko asked Washu if there were any remnants of Kagato left inside her. Washu shook her head. All traces of the male pirate were gone from the female pirate.
This made Amara remember an incident that occurred yesterday. "So it was really Kagato who sent that dust demon to attack us?"
"Uh...Yes," Ryoko hid her tracks with a smile. Ayeka and Illyana had their doubts, but they kept these opinions to themselves.
===
During the flight, the family and mutants huddled together into a circle. Most sat on the floor. Washu and Ryoko, however, levitated. Dani, due to her weak legs, had to sit on a levitating chair, dressed in Illyana's kimono. The Professor was also seated in a similar manner. Lockheed was perched upon Illyana's shoulder. It was a weird-looking get together. In the circle, everyone discussed about what had happened. Of all the people, Ryoko was the one who needed the most info. As can be expected, what was revealed to her was a whopper.
"WASHU WAS KILLED?" screamed the pirate, increasing her voice with each word. "AND NO ONE TOLD ME THIS?"
Fearing danger, most of the mutants decided to move some distance away from the pirate (like about eight feet). Warlock remained on his/its spot, unable to recognize the danger. Tenchi too stayed in his place. He explained to Ryoko that they kept it a secret from her because they did not want to upset her.
"UPSET?!" Like her voice, Ryoko's eyes increased in frequency. "WHO'S UPSET!?"
This provoked Washu to have some fun. "So...Ryoko," the scientist spoke in a long smug voice. "Does this mean you missed me?"
"Fat chance!" Ryoko threw her arms together, refusing to face this accusation. She was just...surprised by it, the pirate decided. What did she care about this neglectful parent? Nothing.
After a calming atmosphere, the mutants moved back to their spots, continuing their story. Tenchi thanked Dani and Rahne for freeing his family. Rahne made an embarrassed look. "Tis...nothin'," was the Scottish girl's nervous tone. She did not deserve any thanks from the boy, considering what how she had treated him before.
Washu would have talked about how Kagato got a new body from the mass, but no one wanted to hear these details. They were more interested on how Tenchi faced Kagato. Sam and the others felt respect for Tenchi, what with the injuries he took in the fight ("Ouch!" remarked Doug), as well as his internment in that creepy Limbo. The team thought the story about Tenchi and Illyana's magic fusion was the most attractive part. Though neither Tenchi nor Illyana mentioned the kiss, their blushing silence on how Illyana saved Tenchi had the team making "O" sounds and remarks on Tenchi's romantic side.
On a much more dramatic note, Professor Xavier gave a theory about the cause for Tenchi's redemption. Since Tenchi was absorbing Illyana dark side, Illyana was probably receiving Tenchi's good side. When Illyana kissed him, she was projecting this innocence back into Tenchi, which somehow overwhelmed the darkness in Tenchi's soul, presumably throwing it out of him.
Sadly, as the Professor theorized, this meant a restoration of the status quo in souls. Illyana seemed to accept this. Dani and Sasami also were content. The future they saw was rendered unfulfilled. Amara, however, did not like the Professor's practical version of the story. She believed that the salvation was done by divine Venus' influence upon the two persons' feelings for each other. What about the power of their love? (Ryoko reacted to this with a sneer.)
At the conclusion, Ryoko displayed her disagreements about the fate of Kagato. Washu had decided to keep him imprisoned. The pirate certainly did not like this. "That bastard enslaved me twice, had me kidnap and hurt my fr...Tenchi's friends," the pirate repaired her words, "and almost killed Tenchi. We should get rid of him once and for all."
Amara agreed, arguing that such a man should die for the good of the universe. "We have the power to stop him, so should we not put that into use?"
Illyana also gave her support. Tenchi, however, countered this stance. "But do we have that right?" he defended. "It's true that I wanted to destroy him, but if my experiences have meant anything, it is that killing Kagato would make me no different from him. I was given a second chance this time. I'm not going to repeat my mistakes."
Sam, Doug, Roberto, Dani, and Rahne supported this, the latter quoting "Thou shalt not kill!" Warlock's quote "LIFEGLOW- precious," was unconventional but good. Professor Xavier was pleased at Tenchi's resolve. Amara begrudgingly accepted this thought. Ryoko was as steadfast in keeping her views, but decided to keep her views to herself. She would let it go for Tenchi's sake. Illyana, meanwhile, saw Tenchi's pacifist remarks as further evidence of his contrast with her.
As the flight continued, Tenchi wished to speak with the Professor in private. Unfortunately, the room was such a small place, that he could not do such a thing. This forced him to make a choice that in better circumstances would never even be thought about.
Professor? Tenchi thought the word mentally.
Yes, answered the telepath.
Can I have a word with you telepathically?
The Professor nodded. It's about your father?
This comment astounded Tenchi.
Do not worry, assured the Professor, I knew that was going to be the question; I did not need my powers to predict it. I did, however, make a check on your father's mind. I sensed a mental block.
Tenchi was concerned about the Professor's decision to read minds without permission. However, he knew that the matter called for it. His mental reply was: Did you place it there?
The Professor shook his head, then continued mentally: I believe this might be something your Tsunami must have performed. At any rate, I believe it's for the best. If Dani's experiences have given me any evidence, your father must have suffered even worse pain because of Kagato. If having that block keeps him from remembering his tortures, I don't think it wise to approach him any further with the subject.
That explains your messing with the truth, considered Tenchi.
Some things must be done for safety, Xavier revealed.
Tenchi nodded. At least his dad did not have any more problems. He then looked over at Illyana, who was looking out the red window. A troubled look came to his brow. The Professor noticed this. He asked telepathically: Is there something the matter?
I don't know, thought Tenchi sincerely, but my time with Illyana has given me some real things to think about.
The Professor nodded. Illyana was also a priority in his job. He had to help her solve her problems before it was too late.
Tenchi continued. His mind threw messages to Xavier's: When Illyana and me...bonded to stop Kagato, I felt...so much evil in myself. I wanted to do bad things.
And with power like yours, deduced the Professor sternly, that could be dangerous.
Tenchi was surprised.
I did not need to read your mind, defended the Professor. I know about the dangers of evil and power. Power corrupts, and Absolute power corrupts absolutely.
It scares me, the boy fretted.
As it does myself, revealed the Professor. It is best that one takes such things with great attention. Not facing them would be horrible.
Tenchi was astounded about how much the Professor knew about this. His belief that he was not reading his mind further increased the surprise. He continued telepathically: I just hope I'm able to learn how to control my powers before I end up becoming someone like Kagato.
Your friends and family will help you make the right choice, expressed Xavier.
Tenchi nodded his head, than walked away. One problem was solved. Unfortunately, another one still surfaced.
===
The minimized School for Gifted Youngsters was enlarged back to its proper foundation. The Shiar technology inside the complex started repairing any damage brought on by the School's theft. The New Mutants, as usual, were dazzled by these fantastic changes. It was not a moment too soon, for Xavier had now received mental messages from Rachel Summers, informing him about the X-Men's predicament caused by the School's disappearance. One of which included a battle with two logs.
Coming to the scene and resolving the conflict, Tenchi and his family met the X-Men for the first time. Mihoshi had remarked about the Shiar Empire's association with the group, a questionable rumor that had finally been revealed as truth. Both she and Tenchi were most excited to meet several of the members. Tenchi had previously seen the black woman Ororo, Illyana's brother Peter, and the elf named Kurt in his trip to Limbo, but it was still big to meet them in the flesh. He did not, however, know about the girl with the streak of white on her hair. She was named Rogue (this girl made a comment on Ryoko, "Nice hair, sugar!").
The red-haired girl named Rachel was also an unknown. The Professor had Kurt,
Rogue, and Rachel recollect the Rolls Royce left near the highway.
"My brother Peter," Illyana proclaimed this person to Tenchi. The boy shook hands with this larger person. Illyana' sibling had a gentle face that nevertheless looked at Tenchi with features of suspicion. Tenchi knew what this antipathy could probably be about. It was time to face this problem once and for all.
===
Of the casualties, Dani suffered the most physically. To her pain, she was forced to be on a wheelchair again. This was a retard in progress although this time her condition was so improved that it would take a few days for her to stand up. "Well, it beats being dead," Dani acceptingly joked. What was really a problem to her was the disappearance of her mother's belt. When Kagato captured her, he had stripped her of her uniform and belt, probably destroying them.
Washu came to the rescue. With her computer console, the genius materialized the belt out of nowhere. Washu claimed that she merely restored the belt from the essence of its remains. More puzzlement came, but Dani did her best in accepting it.
This eventually led to Professor Xavier giving Washu a tour of the sub-basement with Sasami, Mihoshi, and the X-Man Ororo accompanying them. Tenchi and Illyana wished to have a conversation in privacy. Everyone else was absent, for justifiable reasons Xavier felt strongly against. Only Mihoshi, Sasami, and Washu seemed to have a respect for discretion, though he suspected that the midget scientist had other ideas. She seemed basically indifferent about the technology the school used. This was an emotion Xavier predicted. He knew that Washu's science was in a degree of superiority than even the Shiar itself.
Washu did react, however, when they entered the Danger Room. Unfortunately, that was a face made by everyone once Mihoshi decided to test the controls.
Ororo's cry, "Goddess!", pretty much expressed the moment.
===
In the wooded area near the mansion, two persons met each other. This was provoked when one asked the other to take a walk with him. Their intention was to have a totally private talk.
Unfortunately, privacy was not granted. Near some bushes, eavesdroppers watched and tried to listen on what the matter was about.
Ryoko watched with an intense devotion to her senses. Ayeka too was as ever present. For them, the future of their relationship with Tenchi depended on this talk.
Of course, they were not alone as well. Wolfsbane watched with a sensitivity-enhanced ear on the talking. She only did this on the request of her friend Dani, who could not be there in person. Everyone else seemed to be here, much to her ethical chagrin. "You canna do this!" the wolf-girl quietly growled to her friends.
"Sure we can," whispered Roberto.
"Where's your sense of adventure?" Doug asked Rahne.
Amara watched Tenchi and Illyana with intensity. She had realized from the start a certain attraction the Prince and the Sorceress seemed to be emitting to each other. It was romantic. "If only the fates should be so fortunate to myself," the girl pouted. Sam wondered this with disappointment.
"INTERACTION- fascinating." Warlock quizzed.
"Warlock, turn your voice down a notch!" Doug advised. "I'm trying to hear the good stuff."
"Yes," Peter grimly added. From the moment he saw his sister's face gaze at this Tenchi, the Russian felt warily toward the boy. He watched Tenchi with an assured resolve to bash the boy to pieces if he did anything to his 'little snowflake.' And it did not matter if this 'anything' was good or bad.
As one can expect, the directive were hardly ignorant to this get-together. A disc of light vanished the two from all present.
===
Once again, Tenchi was in the realm of Limbo. With all the constant trips here and there, he would have supposedly gotten used to it.
However, when it is a place like Limbo, how can one get used to it?
Anyway, Tenchi felt this was the right place for privacy. There was so much he wanted to understand, and yet he was uncertain on what to look for. That was opposite to what was occurring in Illyana's mind. In her case, she knew what to look for, but could not do it.
Pondering in their inner confusion, the two realized that they were pretty much reenacting the ice that divided them when they first met. Like before, Tenchi had to do something about this.
"Illyana," he breathed. "Can I speak to you frankly?"
Illyana stoically nodded.
"It's...about what happened."
"That's funny," Illyana sarcastically toned. "I thought it was something completely different."
"Please don't joke," Tenchi spoke seriously. "There's...so much going on...about what happened." His mouth trembled with trouble. "E-Even though I only met you a day ago, I...feel like it's been ages. For someone I've just known, I feel...I feel that..."
"We're friends, Tenchi." Illyana spoke casually.
Tenchi could not think of an answer, save for a low "Yes."
Illyana looked at Tenchi candidly. "The feeling's mutual. But...I don't want to make it more than that."
Tenchi paused at this. For some reason, he did not expect this reply.
"We're just friends." Illyana repeated frankly with a dull tone. "I might have had a crush on you before, but now, I know that it was nothing but just that."
Tenchi was hearing this with confused emotions. When he forged his sword with Illyana, he felt the girl's thoughts and emotions. He knew her feeling's truth; they were no mere crush. With a pleading intention, Tenchi was about to speak out. "But-"
Then it all came back to him. Evidence of the truth developed into his mind to understanding. The images of Sasami's nightmare, the Darkchylde's death threat to him ("Better you dead than becoming like me!"), Illyana's hesitance about merging their swords, and her refusal to attempt a re-forging after their swords separated. All of this came into his mind, and made an understanding as fitting as a correct-sized glove...sadly.
That was it. Things would make sense again. He would no longer worry about possibly hurting Illyana, nor for that matter Ryoko and Ayeka. Unfortunately, he did not feel like celebrating.
Tenchi turned his body around from facing Illyana. His voice was sure; his eyes were not. Since those pupils emphasized his argument on the girl's decision, he closed them. "I think that's the right thing to do."
A stoic Illyana made a pause, but she expected it. "Yeah...it is."
Two persons were no longer facing each other. The choice was perfectly reasonable. Even if Tenchi decided to flout Illyana's fears, she was determined to keep things this way. One cannot force love, Tenchi pondered, assuming that was his true feelings. Even if they were true, his being together with Illyana would not work out. It was with good cause. However, as smart the choice was, the brain had no present treaty with their hearts. Nothing could alleviate what they were presently feeling.
"Tenchi."
"Yes?"
"I'll only teleport you home. There are things I wish to do here."
Tenchi nodded more heavily then before. A stepping disc opened beneath the boy, spiriting him away. This left Illyana alone, bearing a face of emotionless contemplation.
This resolve lasted seconds. With a few steps, the girl buckled down to her knees. The calm face cracked to pieces, her mouth quivering and squeezing into a grimace of fulsome discomfort. Her stretched cheeks were drizzled with water from her eyes. Her emotions took on an explosion of loss and regret. Illyana usually acted in a stoic manner due to her dark emotions. Unfortunately, the present days had thrown this resolve into chaos. She could not help it. She had lost the man she loved.
Her thoughts turned to dire ramifications. She had tried so hard to deny the evil within her, but at what price? If this was the course of things, why should she try to continue being a good person! Perhaps it was better to have killed Tenchi in all the times she had wanted to; in the Danger Room, in the future, or in Limbo. She had blown it, like everything else. How could she go on? Why should she go on?!
She cried for a while, than cried some more. Eventually, the tears grew less, though the pain lasted longer (or indefinitely). With a moist face, Illyana stood right back up in a slow pace, recapturing her previous posture. It was a hard time, but she had to get through it. Why did she continue this existence? Because she had to. The Sorceress swore never to become Belasco, never to embrace the evil of the demon subjects who served her. Nor, for that matter, would she ever let Tenchi's fate be similar to hers. He was better off without her. It was the choice she had made. Not an easy one, but it was well worth the alternative. Well worth the pain...somehow. Life has given her a raw deal, so she might as well live with it.
===
A moment after the Prince and the Sorceress teleported from their sights, only the return of Tenchi was the eavesdroppers' presentation.
With precise analysis, everyone studied the expressions of this figure as he walked away. He did not smile. After he was gone from everyone's eye, Illyana returned, with no smile in her lips as well. For the watchers, the chance of a relationship between the two now looked hopeless.
With this in mind, Ryoko was happy about things not going the way she had feared. Ayeka, however, noticed more closely. She knew Illyana loved Tenchi.
Henceforth, the Princess understood that this possible rebuttal was probably not done without great regret in Illyana's case. The Sorceress had become even more worthy of her respect.
"What a wuss!" Roberto decried, a reply for which the boy received two aggressive space females looking at him with murderous intentions. Doug, Sam, Wolfsbane, and Amara thought this a good time to depart from the scene. Warlock remained to see what was going to happen.
===
Tenchi walked back to the school. It appeared the reasonable choice. Illyana had given him the answers; unfortunately, its truth proved unappetizing to his heart. Why was it so, he questioned to himself. He did not love her, he kept telling himself over and over. That did nothing to soothe him. Twice his future was imperiled by dark consequences to his family, friends, and soul. Only through help were those consequences averted. Mostly through Illyana's help. Because of her, a series of second chances were handed to him. However, after their talk, Tenchi wondered if there had been a chance he had blown irretrievably.
"That was some kiss," Tenchi pondered aloud. With a breath of forced acceptance, he made a final decision: He was not ready for such a relationship. Not yet.
Out from the bushes came Illyana's brother. Peter's skin transformed into steel, increasing his muscles to a point where they ripped through his clothes, much to Tenchi's astonishment.
"What did you do to my sister?" Peter grimly asked.
Tenchi kept his cool. "Nothing. We had a talk, and both Illyana and I agreed that we were friends."
Peter remained hovering with strength barely contained. However, he walked away from Tenchi. "It better not be so," was his last reply.
Tenchi was a little overwhelmed by this. Then Ryoko pounced upon him like a vulture.
"Hey, let go of me, Ryoko!" he cried in this habitual action. As usual, Ryoko rubbed her cheek on the boy.
In the background, Ayeka charged out with great aggression. "Get away from him, you pesky demon!"
Tenchi made some sweatdrops on what was undoubtedly going to happen next.
But then he sighed a large breath, sadly smiling in compliance to what will be. Besides, the boy thought, he was glad these two were around.
===
Illyana stood at a tree. A recognizable voice appeared.
"Leave me alone," Illyana moped.
"I am afraid I cannot do that," Amara appeared in face. "We are teammates, and I hope, friends. We have to look out for each other."
===
After running from the bushes, Sam, Rahne, and Doug entered the School.
They saw smoke rising from floor. From an elevator (repaired by the Shiar technology that the school now harnessed), the figures of the Professor, Washu, Ororo, Sasami, and Ryo-ohki moved out, sooted and coughing.
"What happened?" asked Doug.
"Mihoshi happened," Washu quipped.
The GXP officer looked innocent. "I'm so sorry!"
"It appears," the Professor depressingly pressed his forehead, "that Mihoshi has changed little since the day she was at Lilandra's coronation."**
===
As night was about to fall, it was about time to leave. As the New Mutants and the Tenchi group gathered outside the school, the Professor made a proposition for Tenchi:
"The School would be too happy to have you as one of its students."
Despite some remarks from Sam and Warlock to take on the Professor's proposition, Tenchi was resolved. "Although I'd be lying if I said that I'm not interested," the boy revealed, "I have to say no. I have my training to think about, as well as my family. I'm afraid I wouldn't be able to do such things while hanging around with the New Mutants."
The Professor nodded in understanding. "The doors will always be open."
Tenchi returned the respect by shaking his hand. "If you need any help from me," he offered, "I'll be sure to aid you in any way."
"As my students and myself will certainly respond in kind." The Professor then revealed a box that he was holding with one arm. He handed it to the boy. "For you, in case you change your mind."
Tenchi looked with surprise to the gift he gently took from the Professor's hand. His expression lifted even higher when he saw what it was. The box contained a black and yellow uniform that the New Mutants wore.
"Don't forget," Sam added. "You are a member of the New Mutants."
Tenchi closed his eyes in pride. Placing the box lid back on the gift, the boy embraced the entire package.
"Thank you all, very much."
"Well," Ryoko clapping her hands together, "looks like we should be heading home!"
"Are you always so abrupt?" snidely approached the Princess.
Illyana then walked before the two, smirking like a corporal. "Okay Girls, listen up!" She sneered with evil eyes, but spoke in soft quiet slurs. "I'm outta the race. But if either of you, in any way, break that kid's heart, I will you feed you to my demons!"
Ryoko aggressively threw her face straight to Illyana's. "And what do you mean by that?!"
Ayeka simply clutched the pirate's shoulder. She further increased pulling the pirate away. "Take care, Illyana," Ayeka sweetly replied.
Goodbyes were now said. Sasami and Rahne proved to be the most physical. Both embraced the other strongly. "G'bye muy dear," spoke the redhead.
"Goodbye," Sasami sadly exclaimed. After the hug, the princess walked away, rubbing one of her eyes. Ayeka and Tenchi looked with concern to Sasami. She seemed depressed about something.***
At least she did not cry. Mihoshi, on the other hand, cried her eyes out as she embraced Doug. This hug rammed the kid's face into the officer's breasts. Predictably, the boy's face turned scarlet. A bruised Roberto looked on grimly. Some people are so lucky.
Ayeka and Amara made their farewell. "We would have been a good team," remarked the Nova Roman. Ayeka smiled.
Azaka and Kamidake made their respects, still bearing the gems taken from Tenchi's sword. Ayeka decided that after returning home, those gems should be returned to Tenchi.
Washu made her departing line. "I like you all. Want to be my guinea pigs?"
Tenchi responded by pulling the scientist behind him. Incidentally, this put him in the position of saying goodbye to this team he had become a part of.
The boy looked at Dani in her wheelchair. "Hope you get better, Dani."
"I'll be out, just you wait," smirked the Indian.
Sam shook Tenchi's hand. "It was nice knowin' ya,"
"It was a pleasure," Tenchi smiled. Sam patted his shoulder.
Roberto threw a hand on the boy's shoulder. "Remember, Prince," he smugly said, "When you get in trouble, count on me to save your day."
"That'll be the day!" joked Tenchi.
Amara was next. "May the fates be more sympathetic to you, Tenchi."
"I hope they are," Tenchi sincerely hoped. "Thank you for your wish."
Tenchi then looked for a certain duo. He found it first with Doug. "I hope to get to know you better, Tenchi," Doug smiled. "Your life is so cool!"
"Maybe you can include yourself in it sometime," Tenchi advised. The boy's face then emotionally turned to what was around Doug's shoulder.
"I'll miss you very much, Warlock." He said in true emotion.
"SELF- registers- LOSS- Tenchifriend." The techno-organic being made a long, sad face. Tenchi hugged him/it, who responded by winding a thousand arms around the boy.
After this, a meek Rahne confronted Tenchi. She expected revulsion. "I'm so verra sorry for callin' you such things before."
Tenchi put his hands on the girl's shoulders, topping it with a smile. "What's so sorry about being compassionate to your friends?" He ended this with a hug.
And finally, there was Illyana. There was the expectation of a romantic farewell, with some hoping, while others dreaded. This is what really happened.
"So," Tenchi added to Illyana, "this finally means goodbye." The girl's face looked a little swollen. Tenchi knew that there was a reason behind it.
"Don't think so," replied the girl, keeping a straight face despite the bittersweet atmosphere. "I can always 'port to you when you need me."
"As long as you learn to use it better," Tenchi quipped. His face then turned serious, with a soulful glare. "It was a great adventure, and I'll thank you and your friends for everything you've done for me."
"Not as much as what you've done for me." Tenchi slowly put out his hand. Illyana protruded hers as well. The shaking of these hands was all there was in this farewell. No kiss, no declaration of love.
With the transformation of Ryo-ohki, Tenchi and his family got aboard the vessel. The boy was the last. Before fading away in the tractor beam, Tenchi waved goodbye. The New Mutants responded as well, giving waves and words of farewell. The ship then levitated with a great wind, then flew into the sky in great speed. It was gone in a moment.
"Well, that ends things," Doug remarked. "What do you think we should do now?"
Roberto had his ideas. "I think they're showing a rerun of Magnum PI tonight."
"Boring," Doug critiqued.
"What do you know, philistine?" replied Roberto.
"I know what what's good." Doug argued. Sam and Warlock followed this contentious duo on their return to the mansion.
Only the Professor, Dani, Rahne (pushing Dani's wheelchair), Amara, and
Illyana stayed behind.
"Will you be okay?" Dani asked her Sorceress friend.
Illyana looked on the spot where Ryo-ohki vanished. "I will be. Just want to be alone for awhile."
This part of the group went back to the school, leaving Illyana to contemplate her future. Despite her choices, a small resolve countered it. She would see Tenchi again. Hopefully when she was free of her evil, they could be together. Hopefully.
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THE END
* I don't think Nobuyuki was present the night Mihoshi destroyed the house. It could be inferred that he knew nothing of what happened, and since the house was obviously restored, had no knowledge of any damages.
** As in Part VI, I mentioned that Professor Xavier knew about Mihoshi. The only way that could probably happen was when the Professor stayed at the Shiar Empire with his beloved, the Empress Lilandra (which happened between UNCANNY X-MEN 118-128). It could happen!
*** Sasami's depression would be resolved in the OVA Ep. 8 "Sasami and Tsunami."
Well, it's been two years constructing, writing, typing, publishing, and revising this story. I hope you readers liked it. For those who do, I am planning a sequel. Coming soon, Tenchi will visit the New Mutants for a week, resulting in a future crossover that will send the Mutants and himself to different anime worlds. Be there to read "Tenchi the New Mutant."