Disclaimer: I don't own the Tenchi cast; I did create Blackshire, the two universes, The Ebon Shard, and Yosho (that is the so P.MsoNormal { pont-FAMILY: "Times New Roman"; pont-SIZE: 12pt; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-style-parent: ""; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; mso-fareast-pont-family: "Times New Roman" } LI.MsoNormal { pont-FAMILY: "Times New Roman"; pont-SIZE: 12pt; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-style-parent: ""; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; mso-fareast-pont-family: "Times New Roman" } DIV.MsoNormal { pont-FAMILY: "Times New Roman"; pont-SIZE: 12pt; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-style-parent: ""; mso-pagination: widow-orphan; mso-fareast-pont-family: "Times New Roman" } DIV.Section1 { page: Section1 }

Disclaimer: I don't own the Tenchi cast; I did create Blackshire, the two universes, The Ebon Shard, and Yosho (that is the son of Tenchi and Ryoko, not Lord Katsuhito.)

Tenchi Muyo: The Final Saga?!

Chapter 3: Insanity's End

THE LEGEND:

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 themselves. 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. As it stands now, Blackshire has captured Mayuka, and Ryoko as well as the others race to save her from his horrible ship The Ebon Shard. However she is alone and is in serious physical as well as mental pain. Can even she survive the coming battle?

And Now Chapter 3:

Space:

A large black starship with four large prominent spires and a ruby colored bridge soared with incredible speed away from the tranquil Planet Earth. Its destination was obvious. The mighty ship, known throughout the universe as Ryo-Ohki, sailed through the vacuum of space toward an even larger vessel, one whose hull was jet black, almost appearing like a piece of the night come to life. Aboard the speeding vessel, Ryo-Ohki, the space pirate Ryoko readied herself for the firefight that she was sure to come.

The Bridge of Ryo-Ohki:

All right Kagato, or Blackshire, as you call yourself now, let's stop with the games and fight. To accent her anger the woman in the red and black outfit brought her fist down hard on the arm of her chair. Let's see what your new ship is really made of.

As she drew nearer to the ebon vessel, Ryoko glared with all the hatred inside her at The Ebon Shard, the place where her most hated enemy had fled when he kidnapped Tenchi's daughter, Mayuka. What is going on here? Why isn't he attacking me? What's his game this time? The silver haired woman felt a sudden wave of dizziness come over her as she leaned closer to the holographic console in front of her.

I've been pushing myself too hard lately... I need to rest, need to clear my head...Shaking her head frantically, the powerful space pirate shook her personal needs from her mind. I don't have time to worry about myself right now. Mayuka is in that place, and it's my fault Blackshire got away. If I hadn't of let myself get hit by that sword, then maybe...

A scene of Blackshire using his copy of Tenchi's sword flashed into her spinning head. Where did he get that? How can he use it? I don't buy that Tenchi's grandfather GAVE it to him. There's no way. What really bothers me is that there were gems on the end of the hilt, just like Tenchi's. None of this is making any sense at all. Once again Ryoko willed the thoughts from her mind. I'm not here to figure out some stupid riddle. I'm only here to save Mayuka.

Ryoko paused as she remembered her goal. However, numerous other, and darker, thoughts entered her mind as she thought about the possible aftermath of the battle. What am I going to do afterwards? Go back to Earth so they can all keep laughing, and insulting me behind my back? The silver-haired space pirate laughed weakly. Tenchi didn't even have the courtesy to do that. To think he would accuse me of murdering his child! Why not shoot me instead, it would have been a lot less painful.

Rage began to build up inside the space pirate, giving her the fuel she needed to continue. Suddenly the answer dawned on her, as if it was the most obvious course of action. Yet despite this revelation, the golden-eyed woman seemed more heart-broken than pleased. It's obvious what I'll need to do. I'm not needed, or wanted there. Once I save Mayuka from Blackshire's grasp I'll go back where I belong, back into space.

It's been fun, Tenchi, but I guess it's time we went our separate ways. Steeling herself a final time, Ryoko prepared to give the order to fire at the ebon star cruiser.

Aboard the Ebon Shard:

Well now, isn't this pleasant. Ryoko is already here. I suppose she's going to try and blast her way in here. How typical and drool. I can't have that gem-wearing idiot damaging The Ebon Shard before my guest of honor gets here. No, that would spoil everything, and make the welcome I have planned for them all too brief. Blackshire's black arms extended and a holo keyboard appeared at his fingertips. With astonishing agility, the large man quickly typed in some commands. But it would be rude to not greet her, and I think I have JUST the welcoming that would be suitable for Yosho's mother. Laughing mentally, the evil monster typed the final keys, glancing out the large window before him to watch his horrible trap unfold.

Back on Ryo-Ohki:

"Alright, Ryo-Ohki, FIR- huh?" The angry space pirate paused mid command as something bizarre happened to the Ebon Shard. I had expected him to anything, but never that. One portion of the great ship had suddenly lit up with various bright lights, and a landing platform had been extended. I guess we are of the same mind, eh Kagato? No sense having Ryo-Ohki waste your ship. Since I'd prefer to beat you senseless myself. All right then, I accept your invitation.

Raising to her feet the lithe space pirate moved the floating controls nearby to direct her might starship straight at the Ebon Shard. I'm going to enjoy watching the look on your face when you realize your own cocky attitude cost you everything.

Moments later on board the evil ship:

The silver-haired woman slowly floated down the dreary corridors of The Ebon Shard. Looking around at her surroundings, Ryoko looked at the black walls of the large, seemingly endless, hallways. Well one thing is for sure, in all these years Kagato still hasn't learned how to decorate. Now let's see, if I was a malicious madman, where would I hide my captives? As she floated quietly down the large corridor, Ryoko could not help but feel the intense evil that seemed to radiate from every portion of the ship. Wrapping her arms around herself, the floating woman's golden eyes continued to dart about, looking for any sign of her adversary.

The oppressive silence was suddenly interrupted as a sadistic voice filled the air. "You didn't even wait for me in the hanger. My goodness Ryoko, you're rude no matter what universe you're in, aren't you?"

Spinning about, the cyan-haired woman saw that standing half in the wall, and half out, was the man she had raced here to fight, Blackshire. "Alright, Kagato, the games up. Now give Mayuka back, or you'll be sorry."

As the lithe space pirate mentioned her former slaver's name, the ebon monster drew his head back, his voice laced with confusion. "Kagato? Who ARE you talking to Ryoko? The only people on board right now, are you, me, Mayuka, and Yosho." Under his black helm, the evil lord of The Ebon Shard smiled, as he fully stepped out of the wall. "Well...Maybe not Yosho. He's a little out of it right now..."

"You talk way too much, Kagato." Ryoko declared delivering a powerful right cross to the armored man's face, sending him slamming into the wall he had just walked out of. "Not only that but you seem to be getting forgetful in your old age. Lord Katsuhito is still on Earth. You hurt him pretty bad." The ebon man slid to the floor roughly, caught off guard by the agile woman's attack.

"I know what I've done woman. But I'm afraid you are thinking of the wrong Yosho, but since we're on the topic of wrong people, there is something I must know. Since I've told you I'm not Kagato, do you find yourself wondering who I am beneath this helmet? I can tell you this much, the answer will definitely surprise you. I know it will cause your son a lot of grief once he finds out." Blackshire stated in his most mocking tone, as he and Ryoko stared with pure hatred into each other's golden eyes.

"Not only are you forgetful Kagato, you're a horrible liar, and misinformed. I don't know who you have me confused with, but even you should know that I have no child." A winning smile crossed Ryoko's face as she stood straight up, confidence radiating from her body. "It seems you don't know me quite as well as you thought, eh?"

Under his helmet the ebon clad titan sneered as he rose back to his feet. Has no son? Why does she keep acting like she doesn't know who I'm talking about..? Oh... Of course, I forgot! The Ryoko of this universe is not married to Tenchi Masaki..., which means she never gave birth to Yosho. How interesting. This raises an interesting question, I had originally assumed Ryoko was this kids mother, but now I have my doubts. Who is this girl's mother? Hm... I will have to investigate this matter further. "I don't know what I've been thinking." Blackshire apologized, before slapping one hand to his helmet. "Ryoko, before we continue this fight anymore, I think you should at least get a chance to meet your own son, don't you? As a matter of fact, I'll even light the way for you." Once again the metal monster chuckled, revealing he knew more than he was telling her. Then in an instant he disappeared.

"Come back here, you coward! KAGATO! I am not in the mood to play mind games with you!" The furious silver-haired space pirate stood in the dismal halls of the ebon shard, her eyes and ears on full alert, as she prepared to attack anything that came at her. Damn him! What is he up to this time? Why can't doesn't he stay and fight? Maybe he's not as tough as he has been letting on. After all each time he was hurt, he ran. I must have done some serious damage to him. Of course, Kagato is still dangerous, and I have no clue what he's up to. I'll have to stay on guard. Now where did he go?

As if in reply the lights above her began to flicker to life, one by one, lighting up a path. I see, you want to lead me into another trap of yours. Well, far be it from me to disappoint a man who waits patiently for me. With a devil-may-care smirk on her face, the weakened space pirate flew with all the strength she could muster down the ebon hallway. I just hope you realize what you're getting yourself into, 'Blackshire.'

Leaving Earth's Orbit:

Tenchi Masaki, now draped in his Jurai battle armor, looked out the window of the Yagami at the tiny planet before him. I've probably seen Earth from space more than anyone else. Tenchi admitted to himself with a slight smile. I get the feeling I'm about to lose something very important, and every time I think about it I think it will be Ryoko. Why did I always have to be so rude to her? I mean sure she's a little too energetic, but still maybe I shouldn't have always blamed her for everything. All she's been trying to do is help me raise Mayuka, and after she risked her life to save my little Noodles, I go and accuse her of killing Mayuka. Not one of your better moves, Tenchi...

"Lord Tenchi?" A quiet voice resounded behind him. Looking over his shoulder slowly, the young prince saw the other woman who fought for possession of his heart, Lady Ayeka, first princess of Planet Jurai. Standing only a few feet behind her was a teal-haired woman wearing a Galaxy Police outfit, an orange headband holding back her long hair. After a few moments, the purple-haired woman once again spoke. "We have some good news. Kiyone tells me we may not have to fight to get on The Ebon Shard."

The young man's eyebrow rose slightly at the news. He always preferred to do things without violence if possible.

The teal haired detective stepped forward, realizing all eyes were on her now. "We all know that this new ship of Kagato's, The Ebon Shard, looks almost exactly like this ship, right?" Tenchi and Ayeka nodded, beckoning the unlucky detective to continue. Clearing her throat, she obliged them. "Well, when we got into orbit, I tried to lock onto that thing, to see if I could detect any weaknesses. But in the end, it's too well shielded to be detectable. What I was able to learn was that it has an energy output identical to this ship. I also noted that Ryo-Ohki's energy trail led straight into The Ebon Shard."

"Which means...," the brown-haired young man asked, his patience not at its usual level.

"It means I should be able to access their main computer if I transmit a command message at the right frequency. That would allow me to send a subspace command to that ship, so that it would obey my commands. With its weapons down, we could all beam over, instead of only a few of us, as I originally thought we would have to settle for."

Tenchi nodded looking eyes that were very passionate and hopeful at the lovely young green-eyed woman. "This plan of yours will work? You are sure it can?"

"It's an old trick, not too many people use it anymore. Usually it's only done if someone locks their keys in their ship, or something like that. I've never tried to take down a weapons system before, but I ran my idea by Washu, and she said it should work. Isn't that right, Washu?"

At that instant, the tiny scientist's voice crackled into their ears thought the devices they wore. "Well, I wouldn't say it's a fool proof plan, but it does sound promising. Right now I would say it's your best option. I can't give you any information on The Ebon Shard, but t must have some awesome shield system to be able to evade my scans."

Nodding his understanding, the young man nodded his approval to Kiyone. "Alright then, we'll try your idea."

"Before I forget," Washu continued. "I've managed to analyze that blood sample we got from Blackshire. If I wasn't looking at the data myself, I would have swore this was impossible. Somehow, Kagato has traces of Jurain blood in him as well as some of Ryoko's DNA. I'm going to run a few more tests, and open the range of my scans, so I can figure out what to make of all this. I can't help but wonder just what Kagato has been up to since last we saw him."

"Jurain blood? But how is that possible?" The purple haired princess asked, her face broadcasting her concern. "Kagato was not Jurain."

"I know that, as I said I'm still trying to figure out what this new Kagato is up to. All I can say is he must have been REAL busy, since genetics wasn't his best point. Of course looking at the butchering he did trying to meld the DNA, it's obvious he didn't spend enough time practicing his gene splicing."

"Thanks for the information Washu," Tenchi said suddenly ending the conversation. "But I think it's about time we got this battle underway. Don't you agree, Kiyone?"

The green-eyed detective nodded, cast the young man a knowing look, before turning to head to the cockpit. As she walked, she realized that the upcoming battle was going to end between Tenchi and Blackshire, and that it was her duty to make sure the brown haired young man reached the battle field alive and well. Don't worry Tenchi, this plan will work. I know it will.

Aboard The Ebon Shard:

Ryoko was getting furious, she had the feeling that Blackshire's light show had been more of an annoyance than anything else. Where are you leading me you black-hearted bastard!? Finally, the light's stopped their mocking trial markings, and the agitated silver haired woman saw why. Beside her was a jail cell, the same type used by the Galaxy Police, she noted. Looking at the cell door, Ryoko was quick to notice that the cell's door circuits had been destroyed, so that no one could be contained inside. I wonder who destroyed the controls?

However that question became a secondary concern as Ryoko stared at the cell's continents. Sprawled out unconscious in the corner of the brightly lit cell, was a young man, who appeared no older than Tenchi. The current occupant appeared to have been there for quiet some time, since his clothing, which at one time could have been fine Jurain robes, was now merely tattered rags. Near his legs, the powerful space pirate was quick to note one of his legs had been hastily bandaged, and that spots of blood, some looking very fresh, had formed in small spots. However, what Ryoko noticed before anything else was that this young man looked exactly like Tenchi's grandfather had, seven hundred years ago.

"Yosho...?" The golden-eyed woman gasped as she looked at the cell's occupant. How can it be him? Lord Katsuhito never told us he had any other kids, especially any that would be his exact double. Yet here is a young man who looks just like him. I must be imagining things. Shaking her head in disbelief, the mighty space pirate prepared to turn away, yet some force within her made her decide to stay. Steeling her emotions, Ryoko roared a challenge. "Nice try Blackshire, but I am not falling for your tricks. The real Yosho is nowhere near this young. You'll have to do better than that to fool me!"

"Blackshire...," the duplicate of Tenchi' grandfather muttered as he began to stir. The silver haired woman returned her gaze to the odd young man in the cell before her, preparing for the worst. Suddenly his eyes flickered open, and Ryoko could feel her heart stop.

His eyes... they're gold. Just like mine! But how is that possible? Unless...

Blackshire's early statement now resonated in her weary brain, 'I think it's time you met your son, Ryoko.' Shaking her head, Ryoko tried to dispel the thoughts from her mind. However, as the golden eyed young man focused on her, his words cut her straight to the heart.

"Mom? Is that you?" With what appeared to be tremendous effort the young man rose to his feet. "It is you!" Ryoko stepped back when the ragged youth stumbled forward, collapsing in front of her. He looked up at her, a look of pain mixed with joy in his golden eyes. "What's the matter, don't you recognize me?" Ryoko continued to stare at him wondering how this young man fit into Blackshire's evil scheme. A faint chuckled filled his voice as the young man wiped a single tear from his eyes. "You act as if you don't recognize your own son. Mother, it's me Yosho. The son you had with Tenchi!"

Shaking her head solemnly the silver-haired woman spoke in whispers. "You can't be my son, I've never had a child, especially not with Tenchi." Taking a step toward the fallen boy, Ryoko placed a hand on his shoulder. "I am sorry that you have been caught up in this evil scheme of Kagato's, but as I said I am not your mother."

Yosho looked away for a moment confused by what had been going on. Kagato? Not my mother? Then who is she... Curse me for the fool I am, she isn't my Ryoko. I'm in the Universe of Delight. Wait a minute. If she's here, then that means, Blackshire must have captured her as well. "Listen, Ryoko, my name is Yosho Masaki. I am the son of Tenchi and Ryoko Masaki. I come from another universe. I can't explain the details right now, but you must get out of here now! Get Mayuka, and hurry, get away before Blackshire shows up. Please!"

Jerking back from the urgent sounding commands from the weak looking boy, the lithe space pirate suddenly felt something bump against her skin from inside clothes. Reaching inside and pulling out the odd object, Ryoko saw it was the device Washu had given her. Suddenly an idea came over her. "Listen 'Yosho' I think I have a way to prove to you that we aren't related. This device was given to me by Washu, and will only work on people of the Masaki bloodline. It will allow us to link our minds, so I can see into your mind. When this doesn't work, you'll understand that this has all been cruel joke by Kagato." The young man merely nodded looking compassionately at Ryoko as she placed the tiny coin shaped disc on his forehead, the tiny suction cup latched onto his head.

"By the way moth-, Ryoko, is this safe? I don't want you to get hurt."

With a smirk, the space pirate closed her eyes. "Well, I have been told it could throw us both into a coma, but I'm willing to bet that it won't. Now let's get this over with, shall we?" This is probably your cruelest thing yet, Kagato, trying to make this young man think he's my son. Well, as I said no one else is going to suffer by your hands. I'm going to dispel the lies you've told him. Calming herself as she let her consciousness feel for his mind, as she would for Ryo-Ohki or Washu, the mighty space pirate paused. What's wrong with me? For some reason I want to be wrong, so that he will be my son. Well here goes nothing...

Ryoko's smirk disappeared as she suddenly made contact with Yosho's brain, and a surge of his every memory came pouring from his mind into hers. It was the most intense feeling she had ever experienced. Everything she mentally saw, was from his own eyes.

The wave of thoughts began with scenes of Ryoko and Tenchi holding each other closely, talking in whispers before kissing lightly. As well as images of beautiful days were she sat next to this young man as they laughed and fished. She saw herself crying as the young man walked away from the house, to his first day of school. There were also memories of her tending a cut on his knee, and him giving her a crudely made paper heart on her birthday. Even though it was probably the worst artwork ever made, as Ryoko looked at it she saw a masterpiece. One thing did puzzle the mighty space pirate however, every time the young man had looked at her she was wearing a golden heart around her neck, with a silver chain. Before her lips could even form a question the young man's thoughts changed, becoming darker.

She saw a room in the Masaki house at night, although it was one she had never seen before. It was like Tenchi's, filled with a young man's clothes and things, but everything looked different. Instantly the memories changed and she saw Tenchi fighting a monster. The young man could do nothing but watch as the vicious beast slaughtered Tenchi. Then she saw Tenchi being mowed down by a blast from her own hands. The scene shifted and she saw a blade from the Tenchi-ken jutting from her throat as her gems were taken. A final time the memories shifted, and she witnessed Waving goodbye, as the young man prepared to leave Earth on this ship. But as she saw it happen, Blackshire attacked. She could hear the vile monster's laugh in her brain, and could even feel the intense pain that this monster had caused Yosho.

THE YAGAMI:

"That should do it," Kiyone said looking over the controls, having just finished double-checking her entries. "Everything is set up. Mihoshi, commence transfer, and keep your fingers crossed." If this works, then we'll be able to get on board quickly. I still can't get over how much that ship looks like this one. I have to know why.

"But how can I do both, Kiyone?" Mihoshi asked as she began to transmit the data sequence, a confused look on her face. "I need both my hands to enter in the coordinates right."

"Never mind," the teal-haired detective snarled as she watched the monitor. "It looks like it might have worked. Lay in a course, right where Ryo-Ohki's trail ended. So we can beam over to that ship, that must be a hanger, or something."

A few moments later, aboard The Ebon Shard:

Blackshire was furious. The ebon knight had just learned, through a mental link he had with his ship, that The Ebon Shard's weapon's had somehow been taken offline. Not only that, but four people from the Yagami had just beamed through his shields. How is this possible! What has gone wrong with the ship's weapons, and why now! Well I suppose it doesn't matter, I'll just have to kill them all myself. In a way it's most convenient. I haven't killed in so very long... Before I begin the slaughter. I simply must check in on Yosho and Ryoko...

Elsewhere on the evil ship:

The flow of memories from Yosho to Ryoko began to slow. Once again Ryoko saw Blackshire from the young mans eyes, as the evil creature in black armor watched his monitors.

Suddenly another mind entered into the two figure's brains, it was the monster that Yosho hated more than anything else, Blackshire. Yosho! It is time to... However due to the intensity of the mental link, when Blackshire appeared in Yosho's thoughts there was a tremendously painful backlash, which shattered the link between Yosho and Ryoko. Dropping both of them to the floor. Blackshire continued to speak to his prisoners, although his voice now was laced with fury and pain. How dare you share your thoughts with someone else boy! I'll make you pay for that later, but for now, I need you to come to me. The young man's eyes opened wide with terror, as pain arced through him, seconds before he disappeared, apparently transported to another part of the ship.

Shaking her head, Ryoko sat up feeling dazed. "Yosho? Where are you?" Scanning the area the golden-eyed space pirate found no trace of the strange young man. She did however see the device Washu had given her, burned to a crisp from the mental backlash, laying on the cold steel ground. Those last few memories, they seemed just like Sasami's nightmare. Does that mean he is my son? Or at least the son of another me? I still can't believe that, even thought I saw it all with my own mind, but it would make sense. Kagato built his life around power and tormenting me. It would only seem logical that he would take great joy in hurting my son as well. The golden-eyed woman paused. Did I just call that boy my son....

Her confused thoughts were interrupted once again as a voice blared into her mind. Ryoko...please save Mayuka… and get out of here...

Yosho? With a look of disbelief, the lithe space pirate looked at the smoldering device in her hand, but how...? The device is ruined. How can I still hear him in my head? I guess it doesn't matter. Whether or not you are my son doesn't matter Yosho. I promise I'll save you, and Mayuka, from Blackshire. Standing up tall, Ryoko began flying through the endless corridors of the ebon vessel. She wasn't quiet sure how, yet she knew the way to Mayuka's chambers.

Mayuka's Room:

Blackshire smiled viciously under his helm as he looked at the sleeping youth. "They think they can save you little one, but they are so very wrong. In the end all will die by my hands, and I will rule everything unopposed." Throwing his helmeted head back in triumph the evil titan laughed loudly. His mad laughter caused the sleeping youth to wake.

Mayuka's orange eyes shot open instantly. Fear filled the little girl as she saw the evil man who had taken her from her home standing over her. In the end the blue-haired infant did the only thing she could think of, she cried out for help. The ebon clad man before her now seemed to take notice of her. "Finally awake, eh, Mayuka. Well good, please continue to make that lovely noise as loud as you can, draw everyone to me. Soon the sound of people crying and dying will fill the entire universe. This is merely the preamble to my symphony" Turning, his ebon cloak whirling behind him, Blackshire made his way back into the hallway. "Soon I will be the most feared creature in any universe!"

Stepping into the corridor, the ebon tyrant was too consumed with his own joy to notice his attacker. With tremendous force a powerful fist collided with his face, sending his hurtling quiet a distance down the endless hallway. A few seconds later, Blackshire came to halt, slamming into the ground with intense force. Using his incredible speed and agility the ebon knight leapt to his feet, in time to see his attacker coming at him once again. It was Ryoko. She now flew , arms out like a battering ram, at him with all her speed. Throwing his arms up, Blackshire caught her fists, however the sheer power of her momentum caused his feet to grind against the black floor, as she pushed him back.

The ebon titan sneered under his helmet. "That punch was just like you, Ryoko, cheap and weak!" Ryoko's feet hit the ground as she continued to struggle with the evil monster before her. Her eyes were brimming with hatred as she battled with all her power to overcome Blackshire.

Not Far Away:

"Alright, we're in! Washu, can you tell us which way to head to find Mayuka or any of the others?" Kiyone asked as they four of them ran down a hallway.

"I'm detecting a lot of aura's, but from what I can see, if you take the corridor to the right, it should lead you straight to Mayuka." Washu informed them.

As the four warriors prepared to make a dash down the black hallway, a horrible scream filled the air from the left corridor.

"That sounded like Ryoko," Tenchi declared spinning about quickly. "You three go down that way, and get Mayuka. If that is Ryoko, then it sounds like she needs my help."

"Then we better go with you, Tenchi." Kiyone said advancing in the same direction as the brown haired young man.

"No," he replied. "This isn't your fight, Kiyone. This is between Kagato and me. He challenged me, and I'm here to meet that challenge. You three get Mayuka, and get her back to the ship. I'll go help Ryoko, and pay Kagato back for what he's done."

Further down the hall:

Blackshire and Ryoko stood toe-to-toe, hands clasped as they each pushed with their full fury, each attempting to gain the upper hand. "Why must you always be in my way, woman! You are no match for me. I am Blackshire, Lord and Master of The Ebon Shard!"

The golden eyed woman snarled, before disappearing, causing the ebon monster to stumble forward as he continued to push forward against nothing. Now angered, Blackshire spun around, and once again was hit in the face by Ryoko. "Like I said... cheap and weak. You want to play games beaming around, very well." Blackshire disappeared, forming behind Ryoko. The agile space pirate spun, swinging her fist at the ebon knight full force. In spite of her quickness, her opponent still managed to evade her attack, and vanished once again, continuing to disappear and reappear behind her, keeping her constantly spinning to ward off his attacks. Finally as Ryoko whirled about one final time, Blackshire attacked, sending a blast of emerald power into her stomach as she turned. The force of his shot slammed Ryoko into the wall of the black corridor, nearly knocking the weary woman unconscious.

"Play time is over Ryoko. I've wasted enough time on you." Reaching down, the ebon knight picked up the silver-haired woman by her spiky hair. Holding her over his head, Blackshire prepared to strike her with a drawback fist.

"Cheap.. and weak...," Ryoko gasped trying to focus on the man before her.

Punching her with his full power, Blackshire sent the golden-eyed woman flying down the hall. Unlike the ebon knight, the battered space pirate did not spring back to her feet. The wounds she had been dealt earlier added to her weariness were now starting to come into effect. "I am neither of those things. My attack was not weak, because it knocked you down, and I'm not cheap, I'm an opportunist."

Reaching to his side, the black armored monster drew forth the copy of the Tenchi-ken he had when she fought him on Earth. "Now be a good girl and die..." The blade of the sword suddenly shot forth, as Blackshire stood over Ryoko, preparing to finish her.

"Hold it right there!" Tenchi screamed as he ran down the hall. The monstrous cloaked man, looked up from his stance, seeing Tenchi coming at him.

"Well, Well, Well, I see you finally made it Masaki. It's about time. Let me just finish off this defective woman, and we can start having some fun."

"Leave her alone, it's me you want." Tenchi held the Tenchi-ken forward, and a blade identical to the one Blackshire held appeared in his hand.

"Okay, you can have this woman back, but only if you beat me in battle."

Meanwhile:

Mihoshi, Kiyone, and Ayeka raced down The Ebon Shard's corridors looking for the lost youth. "Where is she?" The purple haired princess asked as she did her best to stay ready for anything Blackshire would throw at them. As if in reply, a faint crying could be heard in the air.

"That sounds like Mayuka!" The blue-eyed detective shouted. "She sounds scared. We'd better hurry."

Eventually the three women found a room with the door still wide open. "Looks like a trap to me." Ayeka declared as she looked at the open passageway. "I will go first, my Jurai powers will keep me safe."

The teal-haired nodded. "Alright Ayeka, Mihoshi and I will watch your back." Ayeka smiled as she blasted into the room, followed closely by the two Galaxy Police detectives. The three women stood just inside the room, quickly scanning the area for traps or some other hidden threat. However to their comfort, no such peril could be seen. The only thing beside themselves in the large black room, was a tiny white crib, where the crying came from.

Mihoshi walked quickly over to the crib. There, tears pouring down her face, was Mayuka, the child of Tenchi Masaki. The blonde-haired detective gently picked up the crying baby, holding her the way she had seen Ryoko hold her. "It's okay Mayuka, we found you. Now we can get Ryoko and Tenchi and go home." Hearing the ditzy woman's voice seemed to calm the blue haired infant slightly, as her howling quieted.

Kiyone sighed, shaking her head as she looked around the room in disbelief. "That monster! Why would he kidnap a baby? This place sickens me, I can't wait to get out of here." The more I look at this ship, the more it reminds me of the Yagami. Why is that? "Come on you guys, let's go find the others. Then we can go home."

"What about Kagato?" Ayeka asked as she looked over to where Kiyone stood. "We still have to deal with him."

"I don't think we'll have to, Tenchi's gonna beat him just like last time!" Mihoshi interjected making a swinging motion with one of her fists as if she was actually fighting. It was obvious from her voice, and stance that the blonde detective had no desire to rush into a fight with the ancient evil that Tenchi had ran to face.

Kiyone stormed over to her partner taking the calmer infant from her. "Be careful with her, Mihoshi, you nearly dropped her with your antics! Remember, Mihoshi, as Galaxy Police it's OUR job to make sure guys like Kagato pay for their crimes. It's NOT our job to let Tenchi do all the work."

"True Kiyone," Ayeka said as they began leaving the room. "But none of us stood a chance against Blackshire the first time, and Lord Tenchi does have access to the Lighthawk Sword. So he is in no real danger. I'm sure everything will be fine."

I wish I could share your optimism, Ayeka, but I get the feeling things are about to get a lot worse. Kiyone thought as the trio of women raced toward where Tenchi had disappeared.

THE BATTLE:

Blackshire laughed holding his blade, which looked identical to Tenchi's Master Key, in front of him, his golden eyes gleaming in the dark hallway of The Ebon Shard. Before him lay a barely conscious Ryoko, battered and bloody from their battle. Tenchi, wearing his Jurain battle armor, stood defiantly in front of his adversary, holding the Tenchi-ken fiercely before him, ready to face whatever attack Blackshire could muster.

"This has all been so very easy for me," the evil creature from another time and space stated happily. "I mean Yosho was so obsessed with killing me, he never suspected just what he was unleashing on this Universe."

"If you are as powerful as you claim, then why play these games?" Tenchi responded trying to display the same level of bravado that Blackshire radiated. The two men stood ten feet apart, each eyeing the other, waiting for an opening to attack. "Look Blackshire, I don't know who you really are, and I don't care. You could really be Kagato for all I care. Right now all I want is Ryoko and Mayuka back. If you give them back, and promise never to return, I won't kill you."

Blackshire leaned his head back, laughing loudly. "You won't kill ME!" His voice laced with malice and surprise. "You certainly are full of yourself, Masaki. I'm sure it must help you deal with your harem, but I'm not so easily intimidated. As I said before, I am not here for any of you. I'm here because Yosho made a mistake, and now you're all paying for it. However, since you seem to want to make deals, I'll make you an offer you had best not refuse. Come with me Tenchi, as my servant, and I'll release all these women you care so much about, as well as your little daughter." The brown haired youth continued to glare at his enemy. "Yosho always told me you were a wise man, Masaki, and you yourself can see what I've done to Ryoko, WITHOUT trying. So be smart, come with me." Blackshire dropped his battle stance, holding his sword behind him, extending the other hand out toward Tenchi, beckoning him forward.

Tenchi paused before responding, he could still remember Ryoko's painful screams as he had raced to help her. The monster before him supposedly had powers identical to Kagato's. Looking up he took a deep cleansing breath prepared to give Blackshire his answer.

"No deals!" Ryoko roared appearing in front of Blackshire, crimson power glowing on her fist as she slammed it into Blackshire's face, and released the power she had held. Blackshire toppled, dropping his weapon. As be staggered, the ebon warrior threw his metal clad hands over his face.

"Damn you woman," the angry maniac shouted, "can't you just die!" Blackshire backhanded the cyan-haired space pirate into the far wall that she had moments ago launched herself from to attack him. Now Tenchi and Ryoko gazed on in horror as Blackshire's face was revealed thanks to Ryoko's blast shattering his faceplate.

"It can't be..." Ryoko said, her words barely audible as they escaped her hoarse throat, blood trickling out of her mouth..

The face that glared back at them, with a sadistic grin like a jester in some mid-evil court, was Yosho's. His cackling voice now mirrored his insane grin, "Oh well, now you know. Blackshire and Yosho are one in the same!"

"Yosho?" Tenchi said looking at the man before him. "What's going on here?"

Ryoko looked at the brown haired young man, her heart breaking as she knew the man she loved more than anything else, was now locked in mortal combat with her own son. "That's our son, Tenchi. Our son from the Universe of Torment."

Blackshire laughed loudly, causing his shoulders to shake up and down. "Isn't it great? Yosho is a schizophrenic. Yosho never realized that all our conversations took place in that screwed up brain of his. It's really quiet sad, when you think about it. The man spent a lot of time arguing with an empty suit of armor."

"You see, He created me all those years ago to deal with the pain of losing his parents, that is his Tenchi and Ryoko." The metallic maniac paused, focusing his golden eyes on Tenchi, "long ago Yosho and Washu discovered the truth between the two dimensions, and came up with the plan to use the Yagami to find me, and bring me here, so Yosho could kill me. But sadly, I took control of his body long before that happened and made him bring me here, so I could start a new."

"So you and Yosho are the same, huh?" Tenchi stated raising his blade once again in a threatening manner.

"You don't believe me. Then let me tell you the grand story of my birth. You see, the Blackshire Yosho sought has been dead for many decades. The frustration that boy felt began to drive him mad, and he began repressing his anger, frustration, and hate he felt at being cheated his vengeance, thinking he could just will it away. In the end, it was too much for him."

"One day, Yosho worked himself way too hard, trying to find someone who didn't exist, and blacked out. While he lay there unconscious I was born, and began taking control. The day he went into space to find Blackshire, I took over completely becoming the dominant power." Blackshire swooped down picking up his dropped weapon, as he began to walk toward Tenchi, forming the blade. "I have Jurai's royal family's blood flowing through my veins, that's how I can hold this sword, but that isn't all I can do."

"But your powers. How is it you have my powers?" Ryoko asked viciously.

"Yosho has a great deal of power laying dormant inside him, yet sadly he never spent the time to fully wield it. I, on the other hand, found this power and exploited it." Blackshire held his arms out in a self-glorifying manner.

"Yosho!" Tenchi called out, "if you can hear me, then listen! You've got to stop this madness. You've got to fight, we can only stop Blackshire if we work together." Tenchi glared hard at the armored maniac he faced, hoping he could reach Yosho through Blackshire's seemingly complete control.

Tenchi's words appeared to strike home, as Blackshire stopped, placing one arm over his eyes to stop a flow of tears. The black titan's voice became shaky, and weak as he spoke, the rage and insanity in it melting away, replaced by tender and mercy. "Father..., I'm...sorry...I can't believe what's going on... please believe me..."

Tenchi lowered his sword allowing the blade to disappear. I glad this fight didn't have to end with a fight like all the others did. With a sight smile, the youngest Masaki sighed as he approached the crying man in black armor. "It's ok, Yosho," Tenchi said holding his hand out. "It's over. Let's just get Mayuka and the others, and leave this evil place." Tenchi set one hand on Blackshire's shoulder, trying to show his support. "We'll get you the help you need, I promise." A weak smile flashed across Yosho's face.

"I can't believe how...," Yosho tried to speak through his tears. Taking a deep breath, Yosho continued, "I can't believe how pathetically stupid you truly are!" His voice shifted back, becoming full of maniacal rage once again as he brought the arm that covered his face in a sweeping arc, colliding with Tenchi's face, and hurling the Jurain warrior across the hall. "Did you honestly think I could be stopped with mere words?"

'Yosho' looked at Ryoko grinning triumphantly. "Oh I am so sorry mother, I've walked down the path of darkness, and unleashed a horrible evil. Can you ever forgive me?" The tall figure laughed, finding extreme humor in his own words. Turning Blackshire returned his golden eyes to Tenchi, who was trying to regain his footing. Ryoko, now propping herself against the wall glared at him with all her hatred. "You know if I wasn't so awesomely powerful, I could have had a promising career as an actor, don't you agree? But seriously, I always found it so hard to believe that 'father' was so gullible, and even though I just seen it for myself, I still don't believe it."

"How could you do that to your own father, Yosho!" Ryoko demanded stumbling forward on battered legs.

"First off, he's not my true father. Second, NEVER call me Yosho. He's gone, dead and buried forever in my mind. I am Blackshire, lord and master of The Ebon Shard."

"Now come here 'mother,' come play with your son one last time, before he kills you." Ryoko rose to Blackshire's challenge, making one last lunge, however in her weakened state, she was unable to engage the ebon tyrant properly. With extreme easy, Blackshire caught her outstretched arm in a vice like grasp. Laughing, he showed her the master key, seconds before touching the hilt against her weakened body as he had on Earth. On board the vile ship, her reaction to the sword's caress was the same. The battered woman began to writhe in pain as electricity flowed through her body.

Further down the hall

"That sounded like Ryoko," Ayeka, in her Jurai battle garb, said as she ran down the hall, just behind Kiyone, who held Mayuka tightly in her arms, and Mihoshi. "Her and Tenchi must be fighting

Blackshire..."

"Mihoshi," Kiyone said in a very serious manner. "Take Mayuka and head to the Yagami. If we aren't there in ten minutes, take off for Earth. Got it?"

"But, Kiyone, what if you need my help? I can't leave you behind like that. Not when you could need my help."

"I don't have time to argue, Mihoshi! We came here to rescue Mayuka from Blackshire. Now go, if we aren't there, contact the Galaxy Police and let them know our situation!" To accent her words, Kiyone handed Mayuka to her partner.

Swallowing hard, Mihoshi bit her lip, as she headed down a different hallway, back to the Yagami, as Kiyone and Ayeka raced toward the battle.

The Battle:

Blackshire released Ryoko's arm, letting her fall, still writhing in pain, to the floor. "Is that all? I expected more from the legendary space pirate, Ryoko!" Clicking his tongue in his mouth Blackshire squatted to look down on his fallen foe. "What have you got to say for yourself!" Ryoko was breathing in heavy, wet sounding, breaths as she lay face down on the cold jet-black floor of the hallway. "Well then..." the ebon titan declared standing back up, "if you won't even talk back, I'll just have to kill you." Holding out his hand, Blackshire began summoning his emerald energy for a blast that would finish off the cyan-haired woman.

Suddenly a voice echoed in his mind. "Stop this madness Blackshire! Leave her be!" It was Yosho, struggling to retake control of the mind he shared with the evil monster.

Sighing Blackshire closed his eyes, the energy he was gathering flickering away as he entered into a trance.

Inside the mind of Blackshire/Yosho:

Two men stood in a barren wasteland. Tall red rock formations standing in the distance, as an icy wind blew the sandy soil around them. One of the figures was a young man with golden eyes, long white following robes, and long black hair. In his hands was a sword hilt, a master key from Planet Jurai to be exact. The other a vile creature standing a foot taller than the young man, and clad entirely in black armor. Only it's eyes, which glowed with an evil emerald light, stood out from its shadow like appearance. "Welcome to our subconscious Yosho," the armored monster greeted. "It's time I put you to rest. I'm tired of these games. You've gotten in my way too many times. Now I'll end your pitiful existence."

"You are right Blackshire, these games must end. I won't let you turn this universe into as wretched a place as you've made my mind. You must be stopped at all costs, even if it means my own death. Your predecessor took my mother and father from me, I won't allow you to take this Ryoko from them." Yosho roared, from the sword hilt in his hand a powerful energy blade sprang forth, and the furious youth rushed the tyrannical monster before him, prepared to end this terrible battle once and for all.

In the hallway:

Ryoko looked up at the ebon monster that argued loudly with himself, his voice switching back and forth from Blackshire to Yosho. From the sound of it, Yosho is putting up a good fight, but I don't think he can stop him, not alone at least. If only there was some way to help him... Shifting slight, trying to rise back to her feet, Ryoko felt a slight tingling at the back of her head. That's it! Yosho and I are somehow still connected, which means I might still be able to help him. Calming her thoughts, the valiant space pirate made an attempt to reach out to her son from another time and space's mind. This could very well kill us both, or at least put up us in a coma. But if that's what it takes to save Mayuka in the others, then so be it. Ryoko smiled broadly, as she was able to establish a connection with Yosho's mind.

Back in Yosho's mind:

The vicious demon made a quick sweeping motion with one of his monstrous claws, knocking Yosho to the ground. Slowly the gargantuan monster stalked over to stand above his fallen foe. "As I said Yosho. It ends now!" Rearing back, Blackshire prepared to deliver the killing stroke that would cleave his beaten adversary in two. "Say hello to your mother and father for me." A vile chuckle escaped his demonic lips as the emerald blade began it's decent.

Suddenly something struck the ebon warrior in the back, causing him to lurch, and allow his sword to disappoint. Spinning about as quick as he could, Blackshire's emerald eyes glowed like twin green suns. "YOU! How is this possible!?"

Ryoko smiled, even her mental projection still appeared battered and on the verge of collapsing. "It doesn't really matter, does it Blackshire? All you need to know is that you hurt my son, stole from my Tenchi, by kidnapping Mayuka, and for that you will pay."

"You think I'm afraid of you? Just like Ayeka, you are a big talker." With unbelievable quickness, the ebon warrior quickly raised his arm toward Ryoko, firing an emerald ray straight at the silver haired woman. Ryoko's shield absorbed the brunt of the blast, however the sheer impact of the force sent Ryoko hurtling backwards. Before she hit the floor of this astral realm, her body disappeared.

"Mother! NO!" Yosho screamed. Not again! I won't allow you to take my family again, Blackshire! Summoning all his strength, the young man rose to his feet, and thrust his blade at the cackling madman's back.

The horrible scream that erupted from Blackshire's maw echoed for what felt like an eternity inside Yosho's mind. Pulling the blade from his foe's body, Yosho stepped back pleased with his handy work. The evil monster slowly turned, looking at the gaping hole that now filled his stomach.

There was a look in the armored beasts eyes that Yosho had never seen before, and would always remember. It was the look of fear. Suddenly white light began to erupt from the sword wound in Blackshire's stomach. Instants later, another ray of white light shot out of his right arm, followed closely by another coming from his hands.

"It appears I'll be leaving you now, Yosho. I knew this would happen one day. Parting is sad, isn't it?" As the vile beast spoke, his usual malicious tone crept back into his voice. "Just remember this...

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 ebon armored knight tensed as if trying to pull himself together, even closing his eyes from the tremendous strain. A few moments later, the armored monster's emerald eyes shot back open, just before he erupted into several black bolts of lighting.

Outside:

Kiyone and Ayeka could only watch in stunned silence as the man in black armor suddenly began to writhe as jet-black energy crackled around him. Eventually the surge of power stopped, and the black-haired warrior fell to the ground lying very still.

Despite her severe beatings and the severe headache she was experiencing, the silver haired space pirate was the first to reach the fallen young man. "Yosho!" Using what little strength she had left, Ryoko propped him up, his head falling limply into her lap. "Yosho, are you alright? Can you hear me?" For a reason she could not place, the powerful space pirate felt a wave of terror pass over her as she continued to try and get a reaction from the still youth.

With tremendous effort, the young man's eyes flickered open. Wincing from the throbbing pain he felt, the black haired young man smiled weakly at Ryoko. "Thank you, mother. You saved my life. Blackshire was going to kill me. If you hadn't been there, he would have killed everyone again..."

"Sh! Don't try and talk, son. You need to save your strength." Ryoko said shushing the young man as she brushed her fingertips over his lips gently. "I promise I'll take you to Washu, and she will fix you up, good as new. Just don't go..." The young man took her slender fingers in one of his hands, an amused smile covering his face.

"Aw mom...I'm not going anywhere. I just need to rest for awhile." The young man's head flopped to one side, as his strength began to fade once again. His golden eyes rested on Kiyone and Ayeka, who still looked at him with very confused looks. "Aunt Ayeka! Aunt Kiyone! I see you're here too. I guess that means you found Mayuka. Good..." Yosho's words began to become labored as he spoke in a raspy voice. Smiling once last time, the young man's eyes shut, and he went limp in Ryoko's arms.

"Yosho! YOSHO!" Shaking the black haired young man violently, the mighty space pirate continued to scream his name over and over, tears pouring down her face.

Seeing her friend in such agony snapped the teal-haired detective back to her senses. In a few steps she closed the gap between where she had been, and where Ryoko was. Slowly the first class detective reached out a hand picking up one of Yosho's arms, checking for a pulse, while Ryoko cradled Yosho's head to her chest. After a few moments, Kiyone smiled, placing a hand on the wild space pirate's arm to comfort her. "It's okay Ryoko. As far as I can tell, he's still alive. It appears he took some serious damage from that electricity, but if we get him to Washu's soon, he should be fine."

Ryoko said nothing as she gazed up at the teal haired detective, yet the hope that sparkled in her golden eyes spoke volumes to Kiyone. Taking a deep breath, Ryoko held Yosho close, and then in an instant, the two figures were gone.

"I imagine she's gone back to Ryo-Ohki, with that strange young man." Ayeka declared as she tried desperately to make any sense out of what she had just seen. "Lord Tenchi, I feel we should also leave. Maybe you can explain this whole thing to us once we are back aboard the Yagami?"

Tenchi nodded, as he leaned against the wall for support. His hurt all over, but then again he usually did after an epic battle. "It' a long story, and I don't think I know much of it. I think to get the whole tale we need to talk to Ryoko, and Yosho." The brown haired man shook his head. "All I can say for sure is that boy's name is Yosho, and he is the child of Ryoko and me, but he comes from some other Universe."

Ayeka moved to support Tenchi as the three of them headed back to the rendezvous point. Lord Tenchi and Ryoko's son? How can this be? It's just like Sasami's dream, however in this outcome no one has died.

Earth:

One hour later in Washu's lab:

Ryoko sat beside a med tube. Inside the glass cylinder floated a young man from another time, her son, Yosho. The others were all having dinner at that time, but for some reason she could not tear herself away from his side. Despite how completely drained she felt, and how badly wounded she was, the mighty space pirate felt as if some all powerful force was holding her to that spot. It's kind of funny really. I mean I barely even know you, and I can't stop worrying about what will happen if I look away. I know it sounds dumb, but it's what I feel. Suddenly the figure in the tubes eyes shot open, and he looked at Ryoko with a terrified look on his face. Before she could react, Ryoko saw the liquid siphon out, and the young man be sucked into a portal that opened immediately after the emerald portal had disappeared.

Shooting up from her seat, Ryoko felt a sudden surge of power flow through her. "He's awake!" she trumpeted, making a mad dash for the door. "YOSHO'S...," the silver haired woman never finished her ecstatic sentence. As she took the next step, it felt as if someone had taken every last bit of her strength, and she fell into a heap on the cold laboratory floor.

The Onsen:

The quiet scene of the hot bath was torn asunder as a gaping hole opened in the air, and a large object fell from it. With a thunderous splash, the object became noticeable as a young man.

Spitting water out of his mouth, Yosho struggled desperately to take in his situation. What in the? What's going on here? Taking a deep breath, the young man from another universe looked around. I'm in the Onsen, but how did I get here? The last thing I remember was talking to mother, before I passed out, and then... Of course! She must have brought me home, or rather to her home. I must have been in one of grandmother's medical devices. I've heard her say she sometimes dumped people in the Onsen if she thought they could use a bath after treatment. I suppose I would be no exception, after all I spent a month on that ship, and never once did I have a chance to bathe. The naked young man slowly turned from side to side, taking in the sights around him. Amazing! It looks identical to the one back home. This is incredible! I wonder what other things are the same in this world? Making an excited dash for the door, the time lost youth's mind filled with all the wonderful things this universe would have to offer. Suddenly he stopped, noticing that he was not wearing any clothes at all. Whoa! First things first, I probably should take a bath, and find something to wear, before I go walking around.

Sitting back down Yosho sank into the warm water, feeling his aching muscles relax. This is great. Just like back home. Looking at his chest, Yosho suddenly realized something was missing. MOTHER'S PENDANT! Jumping to his feet, the young man began scouring the Onsen in vain for his missing heirloom. Where is it!? It has to be here somewhere!

Stopping himself the young man tried to think the situation through calmly. Okay, I don't see it around here, so that means it's either in Grandmother's lab or on The Ebon Shard. I just need to go ask Washu if she's seen it. Taking a deep breath, the young man stepped out of the water, forgetting about the bath, Yosho looked around for something to wear. As his gaze settled on what he was destined to wear, he moaned. I can't believe my luck...

A short time later:

Now wearing a fluffy white robe with frilly laces, that apparently had been designed for someone with much a much more feminine physic, Yosho walked quickly toward the Masaki house clutching the robe around him tightly. Brrr.. It's kinda chilly out here. Wish I had some my clothes. Well, maybe someone will loan me some. Excitement as well as dread filled the young man as he walked. To think after all these years, I'll get to see my aunts and father again. Sure it's the ones I knew, but still seeing them will be great. I hope they can forgive me for the pain I've caused. The first thing I need to do is talk to mother- I mean Ryoko, and thank her for all her help.

Looking up, Yosho saw someone blocking his path. "Hello, I see you're up and about, and very well dressed I might add." Washu smiled looking at the full grown youth wearing one of the robes they left at the Onsen for these fairly chilly summer's nights. "I think Tenchi may have some clothes that will fit you, if you want them."

"I most certainly would grandmoth-, Little Washu. But before that I would like to see Ryoko. Would you please tell me where she is? I want to thank her for saving me from Blackshire, that is myself." The young man smiled, placing a nervous hand on the back of his head as he thought about what he was saying.

"HELLO!" Washu said leaning toward him. "Uh.. You might want to close that robe of yours fella."

Slowly looking down, Yosho was horrified to notice that the robe he wore had opened when he released his hold on it. The black-haired youth now stood exposed before the diminutive genius. With lighting quick speed, the young man closed his robe, and his face took a deep red tone.

Clearing her throat, a mischievous smile on her face, Washu answered his question. "About Ryoko, I'm afraid talking to her right now is impossible. You see, when I went back into the lab to check on your progress, I found Ryoko laying in a heap on the floor right by your empty tube." The red-haired scientist paused, noticing that the golden-eyed young man appeared terrified by this revelation. "Don't worry, she just passed out from exhaustion." The young man in the bathrobe appeared to relax slightly at this news, however he still appeared tense. "I told her to get into a Med Tube as soon as she got in, but that fool daughter of mine had to continue to push herself. She should only be out about a day or so. My daughter is too stubborn too hurt badly for long."

The two stood looking at each other, each noticing how much Ryoko's injury affected the other.

After long moments, Yosho spoke up breaking the long silence. "How is Lord Katsuhito? Is he better? I hurt him pretty bad, didn't I?"

"I don't know what YOU did to him. BLACKSHIRE hurt him pretty badly, but thanks to me he's up and kicking once again."

"What about Mayuka, and the others? They all made it off The Ebon Shard safely?"

The woman with the mane of red hair shrugged off his question quickly as she spoke. "They're all fine. Now, I have a few questions for you. For starters who are you? Ryoko's thoughts were a mess, so I couldn't scan them for the answer. All I know about you is she cares for you deeply, maybe even as much as she loves Tenchi."

Yosho opened his mouth to reply, unsure where to begin. Before he could reply, Washu interrupted him with yet another question. "Plus I have to know, what is this?" She asked holding up a tiny necklace with a silver chain and a golden heart pendant. On the pendant was an inscription: To Ryoko, The most beautiful 'monster' I ever met, Love Tenchi. "It has a picture of Ryoko and Tenchi in bed together inside. I'd like to know where you got this."

Yosho sighed deeply, he glad to see someone had found his lost pendant. He also sighed because he knew the story she requested was a long one. "That was my mother's. My father gave it to her long ago on her birthday. I know that doesn't explain much, but it is a long story, and I really am not dressed to tell you the whole thing. Perhaps we could go inside, I could burrow some clothes, and then I could tell the story to everyone at the same time."

Washu nodded her head in agreement. "Alright, Yosho. I believe that's what Ryoko said your name was. Have it your way, we'll go inside, but remember I want the full story. Not to mention I want to run some tests on you. I found some interesting data when you were in the Med Tube, and I want to confirm my theories." Nodding his understanding the young man with golden eyes walked beside the red-haired super genius as they headed back to the Masaki house.

Next Time: Blackshire is gone, but the problems are far from over. Can Yosho live with Tenchi and the others? If he stays, how will Yosho affect the Tenchi, Ayeka, and Ryoko triangle? How will everyone react to his story? What will Kiyone think of what The Ebon Shard is? Will Ryoko be up soon, and will something develop between her and Yosho? To make matters worse, a simple statement gets taken the wrong way, and the repercussions will make your head spin.

Try not to hate me too much...

In One week: Yosho's Grief (It's not what you're expecting!)

Special note: I have basically written the entire 26 chapters that this story entails. If you would like to make a guess in your review as to what it is, please do. I always like hearing other people's theories. Also new additions for this story will be put up once a week, until it's over. So it should be done by Nov 5. I usually shoot for Monday as my posting day.