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Disclaimer: I don't own any of the Tenchi Muyo cast. However Blackshire, The Ebon Shard, and Yosho (with the golden eyes. Tenchi and Ryoko's son.), as well as The Universe of Torment, and The Universe of Delight are my ideas, so please ask before using any of them.

Tenchi Muyo: The Final Saga?!

Chapter 2 Meetings:

The legend of the two Universes' is an ancient one. These days it is told only to calm children with nightmares. You see, in one dimension, called the Universe of Delight, good always triumphs in the end. Things may not be perfect, yet in the end justice and right shall never fail. However, the other universe, The Universe of Torment, is not so fortunate. It is a realm where evil reigns supreme. In the end the evils that roam that plane stand triumphant and those with pure hearts must be prepared, in the end, to die by these monster's hands.

But, that is not the entirety of the legend. For you see, the old legend states that one day a being of purest evil will leave The Universe of Torment, and wage a horrible war with the Universe of Delight. This monster shall be born from love, yet be the bane of all that have love inside them. His hate and fury will lay waste entire worlds, and all of time will quake at his passing. If the demon is defeated, then the Universe of Torment will forever be free of its curse. The curse that evil shall always prevail. But if the demon is not stopped, then the Universe of Delight will fall under the same curse as it's parallel, and every living thing in both universes shall know unending pain and suffering for all time.

This is the story of the demon's coming, and how it will affect the people in both worlds. From Torment comes a young man imprisoned by a black-hearted monster, called Blackshire, who may or may not be the demon foretold by legend. The ebon knight may merely be the harbinger of worse things to come. But this story takes place in the Universe of Delight, where Tenchi Masaki, as well as all his family and friends, with the addition of his darling daughter, Mayuka live happily.

That Said, Let us continue with part two of the saga:

Outside the Masaki house:

A refreshing breeze blew across the lake in front of Masaki house, cooling those on the land. In the plush grass nearby, a beautiful woman in a blue and brown striped dress laid on her back, trying to relax her silver spiny hair blowing gently in the wind. Looking up at the clear sky, she appeared to be lost in deep thought. Why can't I stop thinking about Mayuka? Ayeka just went to put her down for her nap a few seconds ago, yet I get the feeling that I just abandoned her. I still must be tired. I did only sleep a few hours.

Ryoko sighed in defeat, closing her golden eyes, trying to focus on the warm rays of the sun against her skin, instead of her own worries. Maybe Ayeka's right. I do seem to spend a lot of time with Mayuka. Maybe I should give the other's a chance to raise her more. After all, they all seem to be more like the kid than I am, and they would all definitely be better role models. In the end, the only thing I seem to be good for is smashing stuff. Ayeka would be a much better mother figure than me.

Ryoko paused; shocked that she would even think such a thing. I can't believe I just admitted to myself that Ayeka would be better at ANYTHING than me. I must be REALLY tired.

As Ryoko continued to think about her day bitterness slowly seeped into her thoughts. I think what's really getting to me is how mom left Mayuka with Mihoshi. I didn't ask that poor excuse for a detective to watch Mayuka, I asked WASHU. Well, I guess the little pink haired midget must have remembered some stupid experiment, and dumped the kid on Mihoshi. I should have known all Washu's talk about me being a good mother was just talk. She did say she wanted to talk to me about something else, so everything she said to me was probably a lie so I'd let her poke me with more needles.

The silver haired woman stopped, mentally scolding herself. What am I saying? Mihoshi may not be the smartest person I know, but she isn't a danger to Mayuka, and Washu would never promise one thing and do another without a good reason. Whatever it was must have been important for her to just up and leave like that. What is getting into me lately? Ever since I started thinking about myself as a mother, I've really been on edge. Perhaps I should go talk to Washu, she always knows what to say to calm me down...

"Hello Ryoko." Washu said solemnly approaching the reclined space pirate with a hand rose to indicate her peaceful intent. Seeing her daughter make no attempt to ignore her, the short scientist face lightened. "I know you are probably angry with me for leaving Mayuka earlier, and I am sorry about that, but I had to find something very important. Now that I've found it, I want to give it to you."

"What is it?" The silver haired woman asked, hesitantly turning her head to look at her red-haired mother. "It better not be a shot, or so help me Washu..." Ryoko's words trailed off as she extended a shaking fist toward her mother in a threatening manner.

Is that any way to talk to your mother, Ryoko? Washu asked mentally deciding this conversation was best held in complete privacy.

I just came out here to show you how good a job you are doing with Mayuka. Taking a seat beside her easily provoked daughter the shorter woman cast a sympathetic stare at the worn out space pirate. You really shouldn't think of everything as a trap, it's not healthy.

It's what's kept me alive this long. Washu's daughter reminded her, brushing some wind blown weeds off her chest. The green-eyed scientist bit her lip as Ryoko's word's cut her deeply. She could still recall the horrible torment they had each experienced at the hands of Kagato. Now, what's this about proof? What are you up to this time?

Instead of answering, the diminutive scientist reached into her shirt, and produced a small disc. At first glance, it appeared to be no more than a small circular piece of metal, roughly an inch in diameter. The black metallic disc bore Washu's crab insignia on one side, while on the other it appeared to have some form of a suction cup. Here it is. My proof. It took me all morning, but I finally found it, and even managed to upgrade it a little.

Right... Ryoko responded looking at the tiny metal disc skeptically. So, you spent the whole morning looking for a weird looking coin to show me, and THAT's suppose to prove that I'm doing a good job with Mayuka? Washu, I knew you were a little screwy before, but now I'm convinced that you've totally lost it.

It's not a coin; it's my psionic connection amplifier. Washu shouted into the golden-eyed woman's mind, noting that her daughter continued to stare with a look that broadcasted the former space pirate's lack of understanding. Breathing deeply, the red haired woman decided to explain more basic terms. When you were little, I was unable to read your thoughts, but I wanted to make your life as close to perfect as I could. So I created this coin, as you call it, to help me achieve that goal. This device allowed me to read your mind. Anyone who is psionically sensitive, like you, me, and Ryo-Ohki can establish a mental link with a person who has this placed on their head. As I said, I've altered it slightly; right now it is set to be usable only on those of the Masaki bloodline.

So what you're saying is... Ryoko began; slowly starting to follow where her mother was leading her.

What I'm saying is this, if you place this device on Mayuka's head, you will share a link with her like you do with Ryo-Ohki and me. You will be able to see into her mind, and once you can do that, I'm confident it will help you understand just how much you mean to her.

Tell me, Washu, could that thing also be used on Tenchi? Ryoko asked her curiosity peaked at the idea of seeing what the man she loved thought about her.

It could be, Washu said her tone sounding skeptical. But I don't think it should be. The human psyche becomes a dangerous thing to mess with, as they get older. You might be able to get away with using it on Tenchi, but the chance of frying both your brains or going into in a coma afterward is very high. Ryoko waved off Washu's concerns, staring at the device with hungry eyes.

Listen, Ryoko, the reason I even showed this to you was so you could finally put your fears about motherhood to rest. But if you no longer have those fears, then I'll take it back to the lab...The short scientist rose to her feet ending their mental conversation, since she had become tired of playing games with her daughter.

I wish you would just decide what it is you want Ryoko. It would make helping you easier, Washu mentally told herself. Just as she turned to go, the universe's greatest genius felt a hand gently clasp onto her shoulder.

No! Please Washu. Let me use that thing. Ryoko shouted back reestablishing communication with the woman who appeared to be no more than a child. I'm sorry I mentioned using it on Tenchi. I promise if you let me burrow that thing, I will only use it to see what Mayuka thinks of me. Please, I'll do anything; give you anything, just to end the stress this is causing me. Ryoko gazed at her mother, tears welling in her golden eyes. I can keep up this worrying much longer.

Sighing, Washu looked back at her emotionally distraught daughter. You just don't get it do you Ryoko? I'm not doing this to get something from you. I've never wanted anything from you, except to make your life a happy one. Placing the device in her daughter's palm, the caring mother gently closed Ryoko's hand over it.

Take it, it's yours. You are free to do whatever you want with it. I trust you won't do anything foolish. Now go put your fears to rest, once you've done that you'll have no reason to doubt your abilities as mother, and we'll be able to get back to our usual daily routine. Ryoko swallowed hard, her arms trembling with excitement as she looked at her closed hand. There was only one thing the mighty space pirate could think of that would show her appreciation for what her mother was doing for her. With blinding speed, the excited woman threw her arms around the tiny woman, hugging the red-haired woman so hard, it almost seemed she would snap the smaller woman in half. A single tear rolled down Washu's child-like face, as she returned Ryoko's embrace. You're welcome my little Ryoko.

Meanwhile at The Masaki Shrine

It was a pleasant early afternoon at the shrine. The chill of the morning had completely disappeared, replaced by the radiant warmth of the summer's sun. Bird's sang merrily as the fluttered about in the limbs of ancient giants that surrounded the tiny dwelling. In the shadows cast by these magnificent trees, small forest animals darted about collecting food, and enjoying the beautiful summer weather. It appeared that just like it's predecessors, today would be a perfect day.

Inside an old man, wrapped tightly in white robes, sat behind a small desk, composing sonnets as he listened to the wonders of nature. Now let's see... what should I write this one about. Hmm. Adjusting his square framed glasses delicately, the gray-haired man looked around the room searching for inspiration.

I just can't seem to think anymore. Must be a case of spring fever coming over me, I suppose. Maybe I'll go back to the house and see what's going on. Sasami may have a snack prepared, and it's always nice to spend time with Mayuka. The elderly man, known to most as Lord Katsuhito, and Yosho to those who truly knew him, told himself before pausing as if analyzing something important.

I think I can safely say that I have never met a child who is better behaved and more loving than Mayuka. She's like the best of all the girls wrapped into one. She has the same love in her that Sasami shows, Ayeka's polite attitude, with just a hint of a wild side like Ryoko. Mayuka also displays an innocence I have only seen in Mihoshi, and her will is strong like Kiyone's. Of course I can't forget how smart the girl is just like Washu. Mayuka always seems to know what is going on around her, and who each of us is. Every time I look into her tiny orange eyes, I get the same feeling I had when Tenchi was her age. There is just something about her that makes me certain she is destined for great things.

Leaning back against the wall, the man who would have been ruler of Jurai allowed his mind to wander. I have definitely found happiness on this planet. Who would have thought that a man from Planet Jurai, who was to rule most of the universe, would know such joys living on a remote back water planet like Earth. Images of all the wonderful times he had spent with Tenchi, Mayuka, and all the others began floating up to the surface of his consciousness. Of the fights, parties, and meetings. Each day seemed to bring with it new challenges, but there would always be old friends to face them with. Yes, it certainly has been noisy around here with all these girls scurrying about, but I don't think anyone of us, especially Tenchi, would dare say there is anything wrong with that.

Taking a deep cleansing breath, Lord Katsuhito prepared to sit up. Stopping himself suddenly, he realized that something felt wrong. Closing his eyes the old priest focused, trying to detect the source of the problem as he listened to the world around him. For long minutes he sat in his trance like state, waiting to hear something that would tell him what was going on. In the end he heard nothing, and that was what worried him. No longer did birds sing cheerfully or animals chatter as they scurried about in the trees. In place of all these things there was only dead silence. Slowly the Shinto priest rose to his feet, his eyes locked on one of the wooden swords that hung on the wall beside him. If this is a burglar, or some one who wishes to do harm to the shrine, he will soon learn that his priest does not take lightly who come bearing misfortune.

Just as he reached for the door, the old priest heard two very distinct noises, like someone slamming two iron pots together, followed by a murmuring. Is that Sasami? Why would she come all the way over here to play with pots and pans? He shook his head, ashamed of his own thoughts. No, Sasami is too well behaved to make noise like that in front of the shrine. His curiosity now peaked, the gray-haired Jurain threw open the door.

Kneeling at the base of the steps to the office was a figure clad completely in black form fitting armor from head to toe. Upon his head sat a helmet that possessed two long black horns, and a jet-black cloak seemed to flow from his body, and spill onto the ground. The bizarre newcomer at the base of the steps was apparently deep in prayer.

After waiting a few moments, the ruby red-eyed priest cleared his throat. As he spoke, his voice was filled with power and authority, yet at the same time it was compassionate. "It's a little early for Halloween, don't you think? Is there something I can help you with, my friend?"

The figure stopped his murmuring; slowly raising it's head to look at the old man with its golden eyes. "Friend? No one has ever called me that before. My name is Blackshire, and I'm..."

"Blackshire? I think I have heard of you, are you with a circus group?" the caretaker interrupted apparently uninterested in the metal clad man's identity. Still as he listened to this stranger's voice, Tenchi's grandfather could not help but feel slightly shaken. There was something vaguely familiar about it.

"No," the ebon titan hissed, "I am not in the circus. As I said, I am Blackshire, Lord and Master of The Ebon Shard. I have heard much about your fighting skills, and have traveled across time and space to test myself against you. So will you face me in battle," as he spoke the black armored monster rose to his feet, holding his hands out as if he was presenting divinity. "Will you prove me wrong when I say I am the ultimate power in any universe?"

"I am sorry Mr. Shire, but I have no reason to fight you, and I have no time to enter any contests. There is much work to be done, and I am falling behind. Perhaps another time." Katsuhito turned away, heading back into the shrine. "Good day to you." Closing the door behind him, the former Jurain prince let out a deep sigh of relief, shaking his head as he looked at the floor. Kids today. So that is the newest fad, eh, dressing up in armor and challenging priests to fights.

As he looked up, Yosho paused mid thought, now standing before him was the armored figure whom he had just left outside. "I'm afraid I can't accept your answer. You see I have a serious mental condition. If I don't get what I want, people tend to die." Reaching over with one hand Blackshire removed another wooden sword from the wall, all the while never taking his eyes off the surprised priest. "Maybe it won't be you, but I could always go after one of the others. Ayeka, Sasami, Kiyone, Mihoshi, Washu, Ryoko, you grandson, or even little Mayuka, would satisfy my bloodlust." As he spoke Tenchi's daughter's name, the villainous intruder accented each syllable, easily indicating his target. "So then... what do you say?" Under the black metal helm, Blackshire smiled while scanning the weapon in his hand. When he returned his gaze to his opponent seconds later, he expected to see a scared Shinto priest; the evil creature instead was shocked to see Lord Katsuhito charging at him full speed.

With blinding speed, the surprised intruder quickly brought his own blade up to block the amazingly agile warriors thrust. "What's the matter Lord Blackshire," Katsuhito asked in a slightly superior tone as the two fighters pressed their swords against each other with tremendous force. "Did I catch you of guard?"

Squinting his golden eyes, the master of the Ebon Shard's hate quickly rose. Using his vast strength, he hurled the older man away from him, and went on the offensive, swinging his blade swiftly and with extreme force. Unfortunately for the evil attacker, Lord Katsuhito was prepared, and was able to deflect each thrust with apparent ease. Their battle raged on inside the small shrine, as the elder Masaki parried all Blackshire's attacks, as well as made a few attacks of his own. It was an epic fight with neither combatant gaining any ground. He fights as if he was trained on Planet Jurai, yet his strength and speed are like Ryoko's, not to mention that his voice reminds me of someone I never thought I would see again. The gray-haired priest was brought out of his thoughts as the black cloaked villain swung wildly completely missing his target. The sheer force of his swing caused the wooden blade to crash through the floor of the shrine.

While his enemy tried to recover from his poor attack, Lord Katsuhito reacted, making an upward arch with his sword blade, taking Blackshire's helmet off in a single blow. In panic, the now helmet less monster threw his hands up to cover his face. "What's the matter Blackshire? Did I knock the fight out of you? Or are you afraid I'll make a scar that face of yours?"

"You wouldn't want to scar THIS face, now would you, old man? It's such a thing of beauty, don't you agree?" the evil warrior hissed, slowly removing his hands from his face, revealing it to the old priest.

"Your face... but how..." the priest asked at a loss for words. "It can't be you?"

In that instant, where the proud Jurai swordsman dropped his guard from shock, Blackshire landed a powerful punch on the center of the older man's chest, sending him flying into the far wall. Upon impact with the wall, the old priest buckled, feeling something snap inside him. "Stupid mistake Prince Yosho, letting your guard, especially to me. You really should have known better. From the sound of it, that mistake got your ribs broken. Oh, and by the way, it can be, and is me. I'm back, in a manner of speaking."

Wincing from the pain, the gray haired man struggled to his feet. How can that be?

Blackshire slammed his helmet back into its place, looking with vicious eyes at the battered priest. "You know, this was fun, but it wasn't the legendary battle I had anticipated. The stories of your greatness seem to be mere fabrications, and that's very disappointing. I think it's time to end this pointless battle…" Holding both hands to the sky, the Lord of the Ebon Shard sent twin blasts of emerald power hurtling from his hands into the ceiling, causing the entire building to quake. "Goodbye, Yosho…" Blackshire proclaimed, "I have others who I want to have fun with."

Summoning the last of his strength, Yosho staggered toward the door, hoping to escape from being buried alive. Glancing behind him, the hurt old man noticed Blackshire was no longer where he had been. Where is he? Wincing in pain, the heir to the throne of Jurai shook his head furiously. My own stupidity let him hit me hard enough to break my ribs. I can't believe I gawked at his face like a first year trainee. For now my concern must be for Tenchi and the others. I must get to them before he does. The old prince was soon to discover where his foe had fled to, as he looked forward once again. Before him stood the ebon knight, one hand outstretched with another ball of emerald power. How is this possible? He should not have powers like that!

"Goodbye, Prince Yosho," Blackshire declared before whipping the blast at Yosho's feet. The force of the energy shook the shrine violently, and in seconds the entire building collapsed completely with Lord Katsuhito still inside.

Seconds later, Blackshire walked over to the rim of the destruction. "It's too bad you were so weak old man, I wanted to see the fabled power of Jurai first hand. Oh well, I suppose I'll just have to amuse myself with your successor. At least he has been known to be a challenge." The black-hearted creature chuckled, before disappearing once again.

The Masaki House:

Ryoko and Washu sat embracing each other as mother and daughter. Tears rolled down each woman's face. The silver haired space pirate cried for joy, to finally be able to have mental peace, and the red-haired scientist cried to see her daughter so happy. "Thank you Washu." Ryoko muttered between sobs, "I will never forget this."

You're welcome Little Ryoko. You know I would do anything to help you... Washu's speech was interrupted as the golden-eyed woman suddenly stood up, throwing the diminutive scientist away. "Hey! What's the big idea, Ryoko?"

"I heard an explosion. It sounded like it came from the shrine." The battle hardened woman proclaimed, a grim look of determination in her eyes. "I think I better go check it out. I have a bad feeling about this."

The emerald green-eyed genius nodded, knowing better than to question the spiny silver-haired woman's hearing. "Alright Ryoko, if you see anyone that is hurt, bring them back here immediately. I'll go get a med tube ready. However for what it's worth, I hope you were just hearing things. "

"So do I, Washu. So do I." Placing the device Washu had given her inside her dress for safekeeping, Ryoko squinted and prepared for the worst before disappearing.

The Shrine:

Dread filled the great space pirate, Ryoko, as she appeared at the remains of the shrine. The entire shrine had been decimated, and now lay in a heap before her. What happened here? Who could have done this, and why would anyone attack a shrine? I hope Katsuhito wasn't inside when this place collapsed, I don't think even he could survive if he was. Something deep the silver-haired heroine, that feeling she always got to expect the worst, told her that she needed to look through the wreckage. Quickly teleporting to the rubble, the mighty space pirate began frantically tossing aside the gargantuan chunks of granite as if they were nothing, hoping she was merely being paranoid, and that no one was actually buried inside this mound of concrete. As she lifted a massive piece of the roof, the golden-eyed woman's search was sadly rewarded. Lying between two large pieces of the collapsed building was Tenchi's grandfather, and he appeared to still be alive. It's a good thing those two wall chunks fell like they did, or he might have been squished by the roof. "Grandpa! It's me Ryoko, are you hurt?" Yosho moaned, trying to move, but having no success. "Hold on, I'm going to get you some help." Placing one hand on the wounded man's body, Ryoko concentrated on the Masaki house, and in an instant Ryoko and her companion disappeared.

At that exact moment when Ryoko left at The Masaki House:

"There you are Mayuka," Ayeka declared proudly as she set the little girl in her crib. "Now you be a good little girl and go right to sleep, so that when Lord Tenchi comes home, you won't be crabby princess." The purple haired princess smiled happily at the thought of Tenchi, the man who made her heart sing, returning home from school. Meanwhile, the tiny child before her let out a squeal of joy at the mention of her father's name. Giggling Ayeka tickled the blue-haired babies stomach. "You certainly do love you father, don't you. We all do. That's why we're all here. He is the glue that binds us together. One day I hope to be his bride, then I can show you the wonders of Planet Jurai, your home world. You would love it there, Mayuka. The trees are always in bloom and the weather is so beautiful. It would be a perfect place for so perfect a child." All I have to do is get rid of that annoying space pirate, and then Lord Tenchi and I can finally be together. Ayeka blushed as she pictured the endless romantic days she could spend with Tenchi, if Ryoko was not always in the way.

"You paint a lovely picture of your home planet, Princess Ayeka." A voice hissed from nearby. Looking up toward the window the first princess, who had expected to see Ryoko or one of the others, was shocked to see man in black armor, with a flowing black cloak, and golden eyes, leaning against the far wall.

"Who are you?! How dare you come into this house without permission!" The purple haired woman declared leaning defensively between the orange-eyed child and the intruder.

"Don't get so worked up Lady Ayeka, I am not here to harm anyone. All I want is to see Tenchi." The large figure vanished from his leaning position, only to appear instantly on the opposite side of the crib as Ayeka. "My name is Blackshire. I am Lord and Master of the ultimate war ship, The Ebon Shard. As I said, none of you will be harmed, if you just show me where Tenchi is."

"Lord Tenchi is not here. However, I will not allow you to harm anyone here." The purple haired woman glared at the ebon night with hate flowing from her eyes. "I suggest you leave now before I am forced to remove you myself."

"Forced to remove me?!" Blackshire snorted staring at her like a wild beast studies its prey. "I'd like to see you try. Let me show you little one what true power is!" Holding the palm of his hand at the first princess, the evil intruder fired a blast of emerald power straight at her. Ayeka reacted quickly throwing up a shield to protect her and Mayuka, the result of her force field and Blackshire's blast colliding caused shockwaves to run through the house, causing it to quake. The ebon knight continued to increase the intensity of his blast until finally the blast exploded.

Seconds earlier OUTSIDE:

Ryoko appeared on the front lawn with a wounded Katsuhito before her. Washu was waiting for her return, standing beside a large glass cylinder with various tubes and instruments covering it. Behind her stood a vat filled with a green liquid. "Washu! He's hurt badly. You've got to help him."

Accessing the situation with a confused look, the short scientist motioned for Ryoko to place the battered priest inside the bizarre med tube. "Alright, calm down Ryoko. Once he's inside the Med Tube, I can see how severely hurt he is." The red haired woman typed frantically as the cylinder shut itself once the fallen Masaki was inside and began to fill with the emerald liquid. "By the gods, what happened to him, Ryoko!? He has multiple broken bones, from I can see at first glance, it's both his arms, four ribs, the jaw, in several places, and his right arm..."

"How should I know," the old man's rescuer snapped back defensively. "When I got there the shrine was demolished, and he was buried alive inside it."

At that moment another thunderous explosion filled the air, this time coming from just behind the two women. Looking toward the house they noticed the corner of the house where Mayuka's room was, now had been obliterate, smoke billowing out from the gapping hole in its place. Before either woman could ask what was going on, a black figure materialized in front of them. In his ebon armored right arm the newcomer cradled Mayuka. The orange-eyed infant's crying echoing in the once peaceful afternoon.

"Greetings ladies," Blackshire nodded politely. "Although in your case, Ryoko, I use the term loosely. My name is Blackshire. I am Lord and Master of The Ebon Shard."

"I don't care who you are, or how you know who I am," Ryoko growled, her clothes changing to her black and red space outfit, as she stepped toward Blackshire threateningly. "All I can say is that you'd better give Mayuka back right now, or you'll have to deal with me!"

As Mayuka's kidnapper prepared to respond to the silver-haired woman's threat, Ayeka suddenly appeared, wearing her Jurai battle gear. With remarkable finesse and agility, the first princess landed a powerful right hook on her opponents face, sending him reeling back.

"What was that?" Blackshire chuckled using his free hand to check his helmet's latches. "You'll have to do better than that if you want to stand a chance against me. Although I sincerely doubt you will be able to do much against me, since even Prince Yosho stood no chance." Holding out one hand, the ebon monster drew in emerald power, and Ayeka to prepared for another blast. However this time, the evil creature squeeze the gathered power, forming it into a green blade. "Now then, who will be the first to die?"

"No one is dying today," Kiyone shouted from behind the sword wielding mad man. "Release Mayuka, and put your hands up. You are under arrest in accordance with Galaxy Police Law Number 29584." As a warning shot, the teal-haired marksman shot at Blackshire's sword, causing it to shatter.

Casting a quick glance behind him Blackshire noticed the two Galaxy Police stood in a triangle, so that no matter where he moved to he would always be in one of their line of fire. My they just keep coming, don't they? Well no matter. I could easily kill them all now. The metal clad figure shook his head, his voice filled with no emotion as he mocked the first class detective. "Oh no. What will I do? You destroyed my sword. I am completely helpless now." Reaching onto his side, a compartment opened up, revealing a hidden weapon. "All I have is this." Raising the new item aloft, everyone was shocked to see it was the Tenchi-ken. The only difference between it and the one Tenchi used, was that it contained all three gems on the hilt. "Do you like it? It's a gift from Yosho to me. Thankfully this armor prevents me from feeling the ill effects of the blade. It really would be bad for me if when I tried to hold it, I were electrocuted. Now wouldn't it?"

Ryoko snarled loudly as she launched herself at the sadistic invader with all her speed. Just as she brought her fist around to pummel the intruder, Blackshire turned placing Mayuka between the two of them. Pulling her punch, Ryoko was pleased to note that her attack had stopped, mere millimeters from Mayuka's face. The tiny child's expression seemed to lighten as her orange eyes saw the silver-haired woman, who had come to save her.

Bringing the hilt of the Tenchi-ken up into Ryoko stomach the ebon villain laughed as it sent waves of electricity through the attacking space pirates body. "That's what I love about you heroes, you will do anything to protect the innocent. It makes my job so much easier. " Pulling the hilt away, Blackshire backhanded Ryoko, knocking her to the ground. "You always were defective, Ryoko."

Seeing her would-be savior fall, Mayuka began to cry anew, this time louder than before.

Sasami and Ryo-Ohki watched the entire horrible battle unfold from inside, fear causing her heart to beat loudly. "No... not him. It's the monster from my nightmare, Ryo-Ohki. It looks like he's already killed grandpa and Ryoko, and he's taking Mayuka away! What are we going to do?" The small cabbit could only meow, since she was as terrified by the bastion of horror that plagued their home as the blue haired princess.

Ayeka, Kiyone, Washu, and Mihoshi all edged closer, forming a circle around the vile intruder. "Give up you monster!" Jurai's first princess demanded with regal authority. "There is no way out. You are completely surrounded."

"Is that a fact, Princess Ayeka?" As he spoke, the harbinger of destruction began to levitate, floating higher and higher into the sky. "I think I still hold the upper hand."

Damn him. Kiyone growled looking at her target, trying to figure out someway to bring him down. If only I had all the weapons from the Yagami, I might be able to... Wait that's it. It's just the detraction we need. Putting one hand to her mouth, the teal-haired detective shouted as loud as she could. "Yagami!" At that instant, a massive red starship filled the sky. Its large frame was colossal, appearing to fill the sky with its girth.

Startled the ebon invader looked upwards momentarily stunned to see the large Galaxy Police spacecraft appear above him. Kiyone called the Yagami to help us. But I can't just sit here and wait for her to do everything. After all, I'm also a Galaxy Police detective. At that moment, Mihoshi closed her eyes, and fired at the black armored villain in a desperate hope to stop his ascension. Please don't let me miss. I can't let him get away with Mayuka. The shot missed its intended mark, the middle of Blackshire's back, but instead struck the back of Blackshire's knee. Once again, the ditzy blonde's unbelievable luck kicked in. The bullet hit a piece of armor on the black armor clad criminal's leg that was not fully fastened, sinking into his knee, and sending the loose plate of ebon armor flying. The ebon monster seemed to twitch angrily in pain as red blood trickled out of the newly formed wound.

While descending Blackshire's furious breathing echoed from inside his helmet. "THAT HURT!" He screeched before hurtling twin blasts of emerald power at the two detectives, missing them by fractions of an inch as they leapt out of the way. "Alright if you want to play with ships, then we'll play. But not right now, I have better things to do than play with you. After all I came here for Tenchi Masaki, not you weaklings. So I suppose we'll have to play later. EBON SHARD!" When the ebon titan roared its name, a second star ship filled the sky. This new ship was the mirror of the Yagami in nearly every way, save that it was as black as night.

That ship, it isn't showing up on any of my scans. It's like it isn't even there! Washu said as a wave of fear washed over her.

"Hey Kiyone," Mihoshi shouted motioning toward The Ebon Shard with her hand that didn't hold her gun. "Doesn't that new ship look just like ours?"

Kiyone made no reply as she stared with steely eyes at the horrible vessel that had just appeared.

"It's time for me to take my leave, ladies. Do come visit me sometime. We'll be waiting for you. I'll even throw out the welcome matt for you. Now before I go, there is just one last thing I want to tell you." Pausing the malicious figure held Mayuka close as he rose in the air. When he finally spoke, his voice had a mocking poetic tone. "Where there's day there will come night; when there's smoke, you will find fire; wherever there is Yosho, there will always be a Blackshire!" The metallic monster laughed once again, before disappearing.

As she finally staggered to her feet, Ryoko looked over her shoulder at the others. Kiyone returned her gaze, looking as concerned at the battered space pirate. "What are we going to tell Tenchi? We just allowed his daughter to be kidnapped."

Ayeka, still in her Jurai battle gear, wrapped her arms around herself trying to find some comfort from this horrible turn of events. "We must get Mayuka back. But how can we do that? We barely stood a chance against him here on Earth. On his own ship, we will easily be defeated."

"You're all alive!" Sasami screamed running out of the house, toward the others. "Ayeka, I'm scared this is just like my nightmare."

The purple haired woman's eyes opened wide in shock. That's right, this is just like Sasami's horrible dream from last night. But how does our brother tie into all this? Is he to be the only one to survive this ordeal? Not only that, but how is it that vile beast knows about Yosho, and can use the sword? The proper princess wrapped her arms lovingly around her sister. "Do not worry Sasami. No one will be harmed, except Blackshire."

"That's right, now let's move! Ryo-Ohki!" The silver haired woman commanded, as the tiny cabbit ran forward preparing to transform in a mighty star ship.

"Wait Ryoko. You can't go running in there, not without Tenchi." Washu proclaimed. "Ayeka said it herself, you were all no match for him when he was here. You will all stand an even worse chance on his home turf if you try and go now. The only option we have is to wait until Tenchi gets home from school. Until then, we need to try and think of a plan."

"Why not use the same plan the last time we attacked his ship?" Ryoko asked bitterly. "It worked once, it should work again."

"When have we ever fought Blackshire in the past, Ryoko?" Washu asked curiously.

"He didn't call himself Blackshire then, but it's obvious who he really is. Think about it Washu. He came in mocking us, uses emerald energy, then took a hostage demanding we follow him. It sounds to me like Kagato is back."

Ten Minutes later:

Tenchi walked cheerfully up the path leading to his house. Finally, school is over. Now I can relax and spend more time at home. Of course, when have I ever relaxed when I'm home? Tenchi laughed to himself, even though things were hectic at home, he would have it no other way. I wonder what everyone has been up to while I was gone. As he walked the young man could picture the days events. Ryoko would spend the entire day either hovering over Mayuka, trying to find some way to win his love, or doing both. Mihoshi probably spent her time trying to help Sasami and Ryo-Ohki in the kitchen, but in the end only make a mess. All the basic chores, like cleaning the house and laundry, would be done by Ayeka and Kiyone. Although by now they were both probably be working in their flower garden. The only person he wasn't certain of was Washu, although he figured the red-haired scientist was likely off in her lab working on another fantastic invention.

To his shock, as he came into view of his house, he saw all the girls standing in the yard arguing about something. Now what's going on? Drawing closer, the compassionate young man noticed that Ayeka was in her battle garb, as was Ryoko, who appeared to have taken a savage beating. The two space detectives were also breathing hard. Kiyone's face was beat red, as she seemed to be yelling, like the others, at the top of her lungs. Although Tenchi noticed that the teal-haired detective seemed to be yelling solely at Ryoko. Those two! Can't Ryoko and Ayeka stop fighting for one minute! Man, they get worse everyday.

Taking another quick scan of the scene, Tenchi know noticed that part of the house, specifically Mayuka's room, had been destroyed, and that Sasami was crying, currently held by Washu. Oh no! They couldn't have... Looking frantically around, the brown-eyed young man was terrified to note that his daughter was nowhere to be found. He did see one of Washu's Med Tubes in the lawn, which only fueled his terror. Tenchi's mind whirled as he dropped his school bag, and ran at top speed toward the assembled women. What's going on here? Did Ryoko and Ayeka destroy the house in another one of their fights? If so is Mayuka all right?

The now frantic young man could picture the entire incident. It probably started off as any every other argument between those two. Ryoko may have insulted Ayeka's appearance, or Lady Ayeka could have pointed out one Ryoko's faults, as she likes to do. In either case it would have led to a fight. Even though I told them not to fight in front of Mayuka, they probably got too caught up in each other to notice her. Ryoko must have tried to blast Ayeka, and caused an explosion, which Mayuka was caught up in. That would explain why everyone is yelling and crying.

Sasami looked up from Washu, seeing the brown haired young man running at them, tears streaming from his eyes. "Tenchi!" She screamed, releasing the emerald-eyed scientist as she rushed toward him. Moments later, the blue-haired princess slammed into him, wrapping the crying man in her small, yet strong, arms. "Tenchi, I'm so sorry.... Mayuka's gone."

At that moment Tenchi Masaki's world shattered. His worst nightmare had come true; Ryoko and Ayeka had inadvertently killed his daughter. "No...," he whimpered, his voice little more than a whisper. The tiny girl holding him could feel his entire body tremble as the horrible pain he felt consumed his body. Suddenly the youngest Masaki's head shot up, and a grim resolve came over him. "RYOKO! AYEKA! "

The two woman quickly made their way over to him, each wanting to be the first to try and comfort the man they loved. "How could you two let this happen?"

"Let this happen?" Ryoko roared back at him. "It wasn't our fault. He was too tough, none of us stood a chance against him."

"Him? What are you talking about? Didn't you and Ayeka's fighting blow up the house? Isn't that why Mayuka is dead," the irrational young man snapped back, still able to feel his insides quaking.

The golden eyed woman backed away, sickened by his words. I should have known, in the end I am nothing more to him than a violent monster. FINE! I'll show them all what this monster can do. Breathing deeply Ryoko bit back her tears before disappearing.

"Lord Tenchi, that is not what happened at all!" The red eyed princess replied, her tone both polite, yet at the same time deeply insulted. "You know Ryoko and I would never do anything to put Mayuka in danger. We were attacked Lord Tenchi."

"Attacked? By whom?" The young man asked flustered as he tried to figure out what was going on.

"A monster calling himself Blackshire," Kiyone informed joining the group. "He arrived a few minutes ago, nearly killed your grandfather, then attacked us. He tore through us like we were nothing, and then he kidnapped Mayuka, demanding you face him aboard his star ship, The Ebon Shard."

"It was the man from my dream Tenchi," the pink-eyed princess said looking up at him, the tears still pouring down her face. "He looked just like that monster. I thought Washu said that the things in my nightmares couldn't come here."

Sighing deeply the brown-haired man stroked Sasami's head sympathetically. Looking up at the purple-haired princess, the young man cleared his throat before speaking. "Lady Ayeka, I am sorry to have accused you of such an act. It was wrong of me to assume you and Ryoko would..." Tenchi looked around at the mention of the space pirate's name. "Hey, where did Ryoko go?"

As if in reply, the mighty cabbit spaceship, Ryo-Ohki, blasted past them, roaring a challenge to all who would stand in it's way as it lifted off into the blackness of space.

"NO! Ryoko!" Washu screamed running toward her daughter's vessel. Realizing her cries were in vain, the small scientist clutched her fists in anger. "Why does she have to be so pig headed!"

"What's going on, Washu?" Mihoshi asked looking at the red-haired genius with her large blue eyes. "Is something wrong? Where is Ryoko going?"

"Yes, indeed, something is very wrong. That foolish daughter of mine is running off to face Blackshire all by herself."

"Why would she do something as stupid as that?" Kiyone interjected. Ryoko is headstrong, and a bit rash at times, but this seems a bit too extreme. I think there is more to this than you're telling us, Washu.

"Ryoko will be Ryoko," Washu said looking up into the stars.

"Don't worry," Tenchi said confidently to the shaken mother. "She can take care of herself until we get there. She is the strongest of all of us."

"That would be true, IF she had all her gems, IF she hadn't been up all night watching Mayuka, and only got a few hours sleep, IF Blackshire didn't have an exact duplicate of Tenchi-ken to us, and IF she wasn't an emotional and physical wreck right now."

"What are you talking about, Washu?" Ayeka asked cautiously. "I think you should explain, especially the last part about her being an emotional wreck."

Taking a deep cleansing breath, the woman with a mane of red hair explained to those gathered the story as she had seen it unfold. She told them how about her conversation with Ryoko in the Onsen this morning, and how the silver haired woman's goal to be a good caretaker for Mayuka had been weighing heavily on the space pirate's mind. Washu also recapped, as best she could, the story of Blackshire's attack on them for Tenchi. "She really thought you hated the idea of her taking care of Mayuka, Tenchi. I think when you jumped to the conclusion that she killed Mayuka, it pushed her over the edge." Pausing Washu glanced at Tenchi, seeing that her words had hit him in the heart. "I'm sorry if that hurt Tenchi, but it is the truth. However, it gets worse. Ryoko believes that Blackshire is Kagato, somehow back from the dead, and you know how much she liked Kagato... So you see, its true Ryoko is tough, but even she has her breaking point. I'm afraid she's pushing herself too far, and if we don't do something soon..."

Tenchi Masaki closed his eyes, his features broadcasting his fury. "Wait here everyone, there is something I need to get before we go." Releasing Sasami, the young shrine caretaker ran into the house, only to return minutes later with the Tenchi-Ken clutched firmly in his hands. "Alright. I'm ready. We better hurry if we are going to save Ryoko and Mayuka."

"Wait!" the diminutive genius screamed stopping the prepared to depart heroes. "Before you go running off, take these." typing a few quick keys on her holographic keyboard, the super genius opened a portal and out fell five tiny devices. "Put these on your ear, it's a communication relay with a few added features. It will let me track you on aboard that ship, so if anything happens to you, I can transport you back here immediately. Not only that, but I can run scans of the ship from the inside using those devices, and tell you if anything dangerous is coming. I would go with you, but I want to analyze this armor some more. As well as this blood sample." Washu said holding up the piece of Blackshire's armor as evidence. "Be careful, all of you." Taking the devices everyone mentally began preparing themselves for the battle to come.

You may be a woman of loose morals, and have horrible manners, unworthy to even sit at the same table as Lord Tenchi, Ryoko. Yet I cannot fault you for your concerns over Mayuka, nor could I say I would not do the same if our places were exchanged. For you, as well as Lord Tenchi's daughter, I will gladly risk my life to make sure this horrible day ends. As she thought this, Ayeka looked from Sasami, to Tenchi, to the pod that held her wounded brother. It appears we have more in common than just our love for Tenchi. I never realized until now just how alike we truly are, Ryoko.

This is it, my big chance. Today I'll bring in that most wanted, and until now thought deceased, criminal, Kagato. Kiyone smirked. I don't know how he got a ship that looks so much like mine. But I can promise you this Kagato, if you followed the designs as close as I think you did, it will prove to be a fatal mistake, no one knows the Yagami better than me. Ryoko, Mayuka, hang on the Galaxy Police are on the way.

Kagato...that most wanted and notorious criminal. I hate him so much, but because of him, I met Washu. I wonder if this means that we'll be making a new friend this time? I certainly hope nothing bad happens. Mihoshi checked her gun, making sure she hadn't lost it in the time it took for her to holster it and look back. I wasn't able to help fight you last time, but this time I'll be ready for your tricks, and I'll make sure you go to jail forever for your crimes.

Tenchi stared at the clear summer sky. It's a beautiful day... The kind of day where Ryoko would always try her best to seduce me. Images of all the millions of seduction attempts Ryoko had made against him flashed into his mind. It's been great so far; Ryoko, and I know this is nowhere near the end of our adventures. I'm sorry I always made you feel so unwanted, so mistrusted. I promise when this is all over, I'll find a way to show you how sorry I am.

You've been nothing but a good influence for Mayuka and me. I know you're a bit crazy, and a tad extreme in showing off your looks, but it's that passion for life you show that we really need. You remind us to seize the day, and to not let opportunities pass us by. I'm sorry for being so rough on you. It's clear that you love my daughter as much as I do, maybe even more. I promise you this Ryoko; you will have a chance to see her grow up.

Kagato, if that is you, this time when I kill you, I'll make sure you NEVER come back. I WILL save Ryoko and Mayuka you can count on that.

In a flash, the four champions, Ayeka, the first princess of Jurai; Mihoshi, the super lucky Galaxy Police officer; Kiyone, the most unlucky, yet brilliant Galaxy Police detective ever; and Tenchi Masaki, father of the stolen child, and heir to the throne of Jurai, vanished, transported aboard the Yagami to face the ebon monster that had caused them such strife.

Washu hit a few keys, and the Med Tube containing Lord Katsuhito vanished into another portal. "Sasami, why don't you go make us some lunch. When the others get back, they are going to have a wonderful story to tell us, and will probably be very hungry." The young girl nodded her head properly, walking toward the kitchen. Watching Sasami leave, Washu's brow matched her dark thoughts. I hope your dream was wrong this time Sasami. If that creature is Kagato, and he is from the Universe of Torment, then there is little hope for this Universe if Tenchi and the others can't stop him.

Aboard The Ebon Shard:

Inside the cold halls of the soulless star ship, one room is free of the overwhelming sense of dread that this vessel is known for. This room contains the only two people whose hearts beat with love and compassion aboard this hell bound star ship. The room itself could have once been living quarters, but now it was a shell of its former self. The walls, which once gleamed with cheerful colors, and exhumed a friendly, non threatening atmosphere, now mirrored the malicious heart of the ship's owner.

It is in this room, where a man with golden eyes stands watch over a child who has just finished crying herself to sleep. His name is Yosho Masaki, the child of Ryoko and Tenchi in the Universe of Torment. Lovingly he examined his new cellmate, Mayuka. Little Mayuka, my baby sister… I am sorry for this little one. The young man gestured at the room around them with his hands. There are so many things I would like to ask you, to know about you. For you see in my world, you do not exist. I can't help but wonder, are you, like me, a child of Tenchi and Ryoko? Your hair color would indicate that you are related to Aunt Sasami, but she is too young to be your mother. Perhaps you are the child of Tenchi and Aunt Ayeka? If that is true, then way was my mother caring for you?

Sighing, Yosho watched his sister twitch in her sleep. I don't know why Blackshire brought you here, but I promise you this, he will not harm you as long as I am alive.

Tenchi's son's mind drifted back as he recalled how he came to this universe. "You see Mayuka, I lost everything to Blackshire. He sent a beast of pure evil to my home one night. This creature, called Leech, killed my father, and then drained the life from Kiyone and Mihoshi. To make matters even worse, it impaled Lady Ayeka and nearly syphoned the life force from my mother, Ryoko." The mention of the silver-haired woman's name seemed to cause the sleeping youth to jerk. Yosho gazed at her, wondering if Ryoko meant as much to her, as the former space pirate had to him. "Only Aunt Sasami, Grandmother, and I escaped without physical injury."

"Yet despite all this horror, I had thought I found a glimmer of hope. Long ago, my grandmother, the one you would call Washu, discovered a way to open a doorway to another dimension, one where the terrible deeds of our world had not transpired yet. This discovery proved to her that we lived in the Universe of Torment, where evil will always wins. When she told me about the Universe of Torment, I had thought all hope for vengeance against Blackshire was lost. After all, any battle with him would ultimately be a lost one. However, my grandmother in her infinite wisdom theorized that if we could drag that wretched beast here, then he would stand no chance of winning. Using all the resources we had available, which included the Yagami, loaned to us for a short time by the Galaxy Police, we created a vessel with shields so great, that nothing could detect it. To make it more efficient, we repainted the entire ship black, so as to match the endless night of space."

Yosho paused, the next portion of his tale leaving a horrible taste in his mouth. "Everything seemed to be going according to plan, and I was prepared to take our invention on its mission. I had been training for nearly a year, to fight against that black armored demon, and I was ready to have my revenge. It was then that the unthinkable happened. Blackshire attacked me on my own ship. Beating me mercilessly until I was unconscious. I have no clue why he still decided to come here. When I awoke, I was in this universe, and that cackling monster had somehow linked our minds. He even inserted a devise into my body so he could cause me severe pain should I try to fight him again."

"Now you know what I have done," the golden-eyed man stated. "Just remember I made a promise to you, and no matter how much pain I may have to endure, I will hold to that promise, and make sure nothing bad ever happens to you."

Talking to babies now, Yosho? You really are getting pathetic. Blackshire's voice mocked, echoing in the golden-eyed youth's mind.

How dare you bring this child here!? It's me you really want we both know it. So leave her out of your twisted games! Yosho roared mentally back at the evil figure who was linked to him. Because if you lay so much as one finger on her, I swear I will...

You will fell pain, Yosho. On command, Yosho felt as if his entire body was engulfed in pain. Never question me, you insignificant cur. Now then, report to the bridge immediately. We have visitor's approaching, and it seems your mother will be our first guest. I want to make sure everything is perfect for her arrival. This has been a grand day for me Yosho, and I have you to thank. I was able to test myself against the legendary fighter, whose name you share, and now I'll be able to face his successor. Not to mention I will get to kill that annoying insect, Ryoko. Looks like I brought a little piece of home with me, now doesn't it? Now get up, boy. There isn't that much time!

All right, I'm on my way... Yosho replied, tears rolling down his face as he tried to bare the unbelievable pain that filled his body. However, the physical pain he felt did not cause these tears. The golden-eyed youth, with long black hair cried for those who were coming. Realizing his quest for vengeance would not only kill him, but all those he cared about as well. As the pain subsided, the young man rose to his feet and with heavy footsteps, made his way to the control room.

On Ryo-Ohki:

Kagato. Even your name makes me sick. I thought I was done with you the last time we saw each other. But you keep coming back, relentless as always. Well this is it! Today, one of us dies. The game is over you heartless bastard. I will see you dead for taking Mayuka from Tenchi. You may think I'm defective, but I aim to show you what this defective creature can do. Sitting in the control seat, the silver haired woman felt something press against her breast. Reaching in her shirt, she removed a tiny coin shaped device. It was the same invention Washu had given her only a few minutes ago. Mayuka, I will not let Kagato taint you as he did me. I guarantee you shall have the life that I never could. "Ryo-Ohki! Top speed!" Roaring a thunderous meow in reply, the cabbit starship increased to maximum velocity as it headed toward the jet-black ship sitting beside Earth's moon.

Next Time: The end battle begins, and Blackshire's identity revealed! Can it be truly be that Kagato, (SSJ4 Broli's favorite villain from the OVA) or is it something much worse? Will Ryoko get a chance to put her fears to rest, or will everything end in tragedy? It's the beginning of the end, or is it the end of the Beginning? Find out next time in part 3, Insanity's End.