Disclaimer: I don't own the Tenchi cast, or any of its characters. I did however create The Ebon Shard, the two universe's, Tenchi and Ryoko's son, Yosho [boy with golden eyes] (Please note I DID NOT create Tenchi or Ryoko), Leech, Blackshire, Planet Plesruis, Captain Koreas, Sigius Meldred, The Yenvala, Commander Katiso, and Kenzar, Lued, and Posic. Thank you.
* Means a note at the end of the story
Tenchi Muyo: The Final Saga:?!
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.
The horror of this war was but a painful memory to the Masaki family, however recent events have changed that, from dreaded nightmare, to reality.
"Where there's day, there shall come night; when there's
smoke, you will find fire; where once there was Yosho, now there is only
BLACKSHIRE!"
It was these words, which, among other things, started a war, a war of
legendary proportions. After defeating
the evil Blackshire on Planet Plesruis, live returned to its normal state of
chaos at the Masaki house. Blackshire
has sent Leech on an important mission, and Ayeka has declared to her sister
that after the Cherry Blossom's fall they will be going back to Planet
Jurai. Ayeka and Sasami prepare to
lave planet Earth, to go home to Jurai, but sadly, Blackshire has other
plans…. I have told you the past, so
you might know the present, and comprehend the future that much better….
Chapter 21 of 26:
It has been nearly six months since the terrible events, which occurred in Torment. Yosho's breakup and the strange ripples in time in space had been put on the back burner of everyone's mind, as happier times are now foremost on everyone's thoughts.
Universe of Delight:
Floating just behind Earth's Moon:
Sitting alone in the control seat to this large black vessel, an old Priderian held a horrifying helm in one hand, as emerald power flowed under his mental control in the other. The green energy coursed endlessly, forming a symbol, which stood for infinity. (Picture an eight on its side). It appeared the ancient creature was lost in thought, as his ebon battle cruiser drifted in the vast darkness of space, towards its horrible goal.
"Lord Blackshire…" the computer said in its emotionless voice, tearing the vile knight from his dreams.
"What is it…"the lord of this vessel hissed, looking up at the ceiling as if he could see the exact presence of the ships computer.
"Forgive the intrusion site, but we have another ship on the radar. It appears to be a Jurain transport."
"Combat capabilities?" Blackshire asked, his voice very bored, since he felt he knew the answer already. This is most interesting, I had forgotten about this. Still it doesn't matter; this ship will soon face the same fate as the rest of Jurai. To think that in just a few days….
"Minor in comparison to this vessel. It is…"
"Fine," the evil creature proclaimed standing up from his seat, stretching to his limits. "Destroy it. I don't want anyone leaving the party before I get there."
"Yes Master… all weapons firing." Seconds later, an explosion filled the air, and the armored captain smiled, relishing the thought of snuffing out someone's life.
Early Morning:
In the lab of Washu Hakubi, a very special tour is being conducted, one which until this point was never possible. As the small genius walked through her impressive subspace laboratory, she was followed by three women, one who looked almost exactly like the woman leading the tour, a strange feral looking creature with long brown and white hair, and a muscular young man. "And over here," the short red-haired scientist began, "is my Omegaggedon Blaster."
"Fascinating," the second Washu proclaimed, leaning towards the strange machine, which seemed to be unfinished. "With a machine like that you could focus the entire power of this lab into one point…."
"But… why would you want to do such a thing?" Sasami Jurai asked.
The Washu of Delight turned, having to look up to see the blue-haired woman's face. "Well you see, Sasami, I built it to kill Blackshire. I thought if Tenchi and the others had any trouble, I could teleport in and use this. This thing should only be used in extreme situations. Thankfully, they won the fight before I got it finished."
"That is so…Boring!" the lithe cyan-haired space pirate proclaimed, her arms behind her head. "Come on Yosho, let's go see the others…." Bowing respectfully, the young man quickly followed his mother. After all despite how fascinating he found this tour, it wasn't as if he was anywhere new, and he did wish to see the others once again.
"Well I see your daughter hasn't changed a bit since last she visited," the diminutive scientist proclaimed, turning to continue the tour. "Why don't you go with them, Sasami?" she asked, knowing that the tall Jurain was wanting nothing more than to see her sister, or a reasonable facsimile, alive and well.
"Oh… that's okay. I'm having a great time seeing your lab, Mrs. Washu…" the tall blue-haired woman said, pressing her pointer fingers together nervously.
"LITTLE WASHU," the lab's owner shouted, "It's not Mrs. Washu, and it's LITTLE WASHU!"
Laughing weakly at her own mistake, Sasami backed up a step, a large sweat drop forming on her head. "Of course, how silly of me. You know, now that I think about it, I better go keep and eye on Ryoko…." With a quick curtsy, the current first princess of Torment's Jurai quickly exited the lab.
"Kids…" the Washu from Torment remarked with a smile. "Hey what's that thing?" She asked suddenly noticing a device lying to the side of the path. "It looks like a teleporting device, but…."
"Actually," the other woman interrupted, "it's an enhancer for my teleporting device. With it, I should be able to beam anywhere that unit is placed. Even Blackshire's ship, the Ebon Shard."
"Blackshire's ship!" the small scientist shouted, "I'll have you know he's the last one to own that thing! IT'S mine, Kiyone, or if you must, Mihoshi's, but never that metal clad monster!"
"Right…" Washu muttered under her breath. Do I really explode like that? "Let me show you a few other things I've been working on…."
Upstairs:
Tenchi Masaki yawned, as he walked down the stairs. These past few months have been weird… he recalled, stretching his tired muscles to their limit. As he passed Washu's door, the young man paused, smiling happily to himself. I know I should be sad, since today is Ayeka's last day with us, but every time I think about it I remember how Ryoko organized this whole party, and how excited she was that Yosho was coming back. She really likes that guy. As he thought, the brown-haired warrior's mind drifted back to that night, many months ago, when he had approved Ryoko's request. She kissed me so many times, I thought I was going to get bruises from it, and when she started kissing lower on my body… With a quick shake of his head, the young man banished his perverse thoughts. I'm just glad I had the Tenchi-ken nearby so I could shock her. Otherwise she might have…. Once again the young man tried to exile such thoughts from his mind. Of course, Ryoko thought it was foreplay. I suppose I should be glad she was so happy at the idea of seeing Yosho again, that she rushed off to write her letter.
"Tenchi!" a joyous voice proclaimed, as a woman with cyan hair suddenly burst out of doorway to the broom closet, and Washu's lab.
As the brown haired youth smiled, a glimmer of light caught his eye, coming from the approaching woman's chest. I see she's back from the Onsen awful early, and she really cleaned that necklace of hers. Wait a minute… that one has a golden heart…. "Mrs. Masaki…" the young man muttered, narrowing ducking the visiting Ryoko's outstretched arms. Landing with a roll, the lithe Masaki rolled up onto her feet.
"What'd you go ducking for?" the cyan-haired seductress fumed, glaring at him with her full attention.
Looking over at her with a nervous expression, the young shrine caretaker laughed weakly. "Sorry about that. You're here awful early, and it took me by surprise. That's all, and besides you know I would never…" at that instant, Yosho, dressed in his finest white Jurain robes, meant as a gesture of respect for the departing aunts, appeared from the lab. "Oh, hello, Yosho!" Tenchi stated, wanting to change the topic as quickly as possible. "You look-"
[WHAM!]
As the young Masaki complemented
his would be son, a blue blur soared out of Washu's Lab, hitting him with its
full force. It's passing marked only by
the noise it made, "Tenchi!"
After doing his best to recover, the young man slowly lifted his head, and saw what had struck him. "Tsunami?"
"No silly," the blue-haired adult, who currently sat on his chest pinning him to the ground, said with a timid smile, lifting one hand to wipe away the trickle of tears from her face. "It's me, Sasami!"
"Oh…" Tenchi moaned. "You must be from Torment then?"
Nodding her agreement, the pink-eyed woman rose from the man who resembled her friend, helping him to his feet. Placing one finger and her thumb on her chin, she looked at him with a concerned expression. "Although to be honest, I don't like that name. Torment…. It just sounds so negative, and even though things aren't like they used to be, I don't think it suits my home…. "
Laughing weakly, the young man
placed a hand behind his head, as he listened. It's nice to know that no
matter where you are, Sasami is always a sweet lovable girl.
"By the way, Tenchi," the blue-haired woman began, "where's Ayeka? I really do want to see her."
"Oh… uh… I think she's upstairs getting ready, she should be down in a few min-" However the Jurain prince never finished his sentence, as the young woman before him took off running top speed, up the stairs. This won't end well… Tenchi realized.
Looking at the ceiling, Tenchi, Mrs. Masaki, Ryo-Ohki, from Torment, and Yosho waited, knowing full what was coming. "She sure does act a lot more like Misaki than our Sasami," Tenchi said, finally breaking the silence.
"Well she has been on Planet Jurai for quiet a while," the cyan haired woman said with a sinister grin, as she pictured what was about to happen to Ayeka.
3…2…1… Yosho counted down, and soon a terrible scream filled the air, followed by a loud thud. As the four friends winced at the sound, the golden-eyed youth was the first to speak. "That didn't sound well… now, if you'll excuse me, I would like to pay my respects to some of the others." That said the young man bowed politely, before teleporting away, to visit with the rest of the Masaki extended family.
Oh no, he just left me alone with his mom! That's the last thing I want…. Tenchi realized with dread, hoping in vain that someone would show up and save him from his fate. Waving weakly at the cyan-haired woman, the young man slowly began to edge away from her, "you know, I just remembered, I'm supposed to be helping dad and grandpa set up the banquet table outside…" almost as soon as he had finished his words, the scared youth bolted towards the door, leaving the golden-eyed woman alone, to find her own amusement.
Ayeka / Sasami's Room:
Three Hundred, Ayeka
mentally counted, as she pulled the final stroke of the brush through the
perfect purple hair. Setting the brush
down, the young princess smiled, appearing more saddened than hurt, as she put
her hair in its braids. Today is the
day…. The escort ship will be arriving
today, and it will take Sasami and I home. Home…. The refined woman focused on that word, having lost all concept
of its true meaning. On Earth they
say home is where the heart is, but I do not know any more where my heart
belongs. Though I hate the thought, Ryoko seems to have Lord Tenchi's heart in
her unscrupulous grasp, and with the Galaxy Police no longer able to patrol as
much due to the loss of their station, it is unsafe for both princess's of
Planet Jurai to be out here where Planet Jurai can offer us little
protection. Looking in the mirror,
the red-eyed woman steeled herself. "Ayeka," she told the woman in the mirror, "what you are about to do,
you are doing for the future of your people, for not only Jurai, but the entire
universe. You must return home, it is
your duty." These words seemed to work,
at least for five seconds, that was all the time Jurai's first princess had to
get her hands over her face, before she began to weep uncontrollably. I no longer care about he universe,
Planet Jurai, or being a princess, all I want is to be with Lord Tenchi, and
the others…even Ryoko. I don not think
I can do this anymore, my heart feels like it's breaking. It's not fair, why do I have to leave? I'm sure given a fair chance I could be an
even better mother than that monster woman… but soon I will lose that chance
forever….
Just when Ayeka began to reign in her tears, the door suddenly burst open. Spinning to see what was there, the purple haired woman was stunned to see what appeared to be Tsunami rushing towards her.
"AYEKA," the blue-haired woman screamed, leaping through the air, to slam into the startled woman. With a thunderous thud, the two women landed on the floor. Sitting up, her legs on each side of the downed princess's chest, the ecstatic Sasami, wiped tears from her eyes. "Ayeka… it's so good to see you again. I never thought…"
"Tsunami…" the first princess of Jurai muttered trying her best to sit up, despite being hopelessly pinned under the other woman.
"Huh?" the pink-eyed Jurain from Torment proclaimed, before suddenly realizing what Ayeka was talking about. Giggling quietly, the visiting woman rose to her feet, offering the downed woman her hand. "I'm not Tsunami, silly! My name is Sasami. I'm your sister from the other universe."
Dusting herself off, the red-eyed princess smiled. "Ah of course. Well it is nice to meet you, Mrs. Sasami. If you'll excuse me, I was in the middle of something before you entered…."
"You were crying, weren't you?" Sasami muttered, reaching into one of the many pockets in her fine white robes to reveal a handkerchief. "Here, this was yours. Something mother and father had given you…."
"Just before I left Jurai to find my brother…" Ayeka muttered taking the silky cloth. "Yes, I know, I still have one just like it. Mother dried my eyes, when I was weeping over his leaving with this." Smiling, the first princess wrapped her arms around the other woman, embracing her gently. "You have grown into a very fine young lady, Sasami. I am glad to see that Ryoko did not have a lasting effect on you."
Placing a hand behind her head, the first princess of Torment's Jurai laughed meekly. "Well, you were just such a good influence on me and all…"
Placing a hand over her mouth to hide her giggling, Ayeka looked at her sister. "I take that back, you have developed her passion for lying, although at least you are more of a flatterer than she was." Taking a deep breath, the young lady continued, "Now then why don't you go downstairs, I have a few things left to do to be ready for my party. Do not worry, I will be fine, but you should help yourself in the kitchen."
"Well if you are sure you'll be okay…." Sasami said feeling extreme sympathy for her would be sister. The purple-haired woman merely nodded, and the woman from a darker universe quietly left, promising herself they would speak once again later.
Kitchen:
In all universe, only once before has such a site been seen as what was currently transpiring in the Masaki kitchen. That, of course, being the time both Ryoko Hakubi and Ryoko Masaki were in the same bed, when Tenchi Masaki arrived. However unlike that night, this was an event in which only joy could be seen. Sasami, and her counterpart stood side-by-side cutting carrots and other foods, to prepare the fabulous meal she had planned.
"So, what's it like in Torment?" the little girl asked, having to stand on a step stool to be the same height as her older self.
"It's a lot like here," the older woman began, "except Ayeka, Mihoshi, Tenchi, and Kiyone are all dead…."
"Gosh, I don't know if I'll be able to make it without Tenchi around. I'll miss them all so very much."
Setting down her knife, the elder Jurain inhaled sharply. That's exactly what I had said when I had to leave everyone…. Still as tough as it was for me to leave my friends behind, I was so young, in both heart and body. I know it nearly crippled Ayeka. Casting a glance at her younger self, the visiting Sasami smiled. "Sasami, I know you are hurting, but I was wondering if you could do me a favor…."
"Of Course, I will silly. Ryoko always tells me that if you can't help yourself, then you're really in trouble."
I'm sure those were her words 'exactly', the taller woman grinned. "I want you to look after your sister. She's going to be going through a very rough time. Promise me you'll be there for her. I know what I'm saying sounds weird, but trust me, as bad as you feel now, she feels a thousand times worse, and as first princess, she can't allow herself to show it. So please, for my own, as well as her sake, be there for her."
Placing her tiny hand on the other princess's much larger one, the pink-eyed girl smiled. "You didn't have to ask me. You should know me well enough to know that I'd always do anything for my sister. No matter what it was."
As Sasami heard her youthful companion say these words, her eyes grew large, causing the young girl to lean back. However she was too late to avoid a tremendous bear hug from the elder woman. She reminds me of mom, so much… I hope living on Jurai doesn't turn me into my mother….
It was a wonderful day for a picnic, and to celebrate, as well as mourn, the day in which two members of the Masaki family would be leaving, the extended family was dining out in the yard. The feast before them was truly worthy of kings, or in this case, princes and princesses.
At the head of the lengthy table, sat Ayeka Jurai, on her right was Tenchi, and sitting very close to her on the left, was Sasami, from the realm of torment, who watched the young princess with great intensity as she ate, as if it were a life changing event.
On the other side of this woman was Delight's littlest Princess, proceeding the two Ryo-Ohki's delight before torment, then Kiyone, Mihoshi, and delight's Washu.
On the other side of the table, next to Tenchi were two empty spaces, reserved for Mayuka and Ryoko, who had returned to the house, to find the little girl's food. The following seats belonged to Ryoko from Torment, Yosho, Noboyuki, Washu, from torment, and at the end of the table, was Lord Katsuhito, who watched the event with happy, yet somber, eyes.
"Sasami," Ayeka began, setting her cup of tea down, as if it were so fragile it might break at any moment. Looking up she realized both women were staring at her. "I mean, sister, where is the pepper?"
"Oh no!" the littlest princess proclaimed, setting her chopsticks down. "I forgot to get the pepper. I'll be right back."
Placing her own utensil's down, the purple haired woman smiled politely. "Very well then, I shall also wait to begin eating."
"No you eat!" Sasami urged, making a shooing motion at her sister as she backed away. "I won't be but a minute, I promise." With a happy sigh, the red-eyed woman picked up her chopsticks, and began eating, watching her sister skip merrily across the emerald field, littered with blossoms, not knowing what horror was waiting for her dear little sister.
The House:
The Kitchen:
Inside the quiet kitchen, two women searched for something frantically. Mayuka Masaki stood beside her mother, her tiny arms wrapped around the woman in the bright red dress's legs. As she did, her tiny orange eyes looked around the room. Despite how young she was, the little daughter of Tenchi was able to stand under her own power, as well as walk, but only a little. At that instant the little child moaned, clearly becoming upset by something.
"Just a little longer," Ryoko
promised, looking in the refrigerator for her child's food. "You sure are
acting a lot like you mommy. AH, here
it is!" Rising up out of the large
machine, the silver-haired woman smiled. "Here's your milk," she declared,
handing the bottle down towards her knees. When she realized no one had taken the offered food, she glanced down,
and reeled back. Hey, where's Mayuka? I hope she didn't try to walk off and
find her dad again….
"Looking for something?" a hideous voice asked from behind her. Spinning about Ryoko saw a woman she had met many times before, Sakuya, holding Mayuka daintily in her arms, looking almost natural. There was also a figure clad in black armor, one she had grown to hate more than anyone else. As she gasped, preparing to utter the ebon knights name, an opened palm soared into her face, embedding her head into the machine she had just exited. The sheer force of the blow, coupled with her shock, rendered the silver-haired woman unconscious, and she feel to the floor in a heap. "See that, son?" Blackshire hissed with delight. "That's how you knock a woman off her feet… into unconsciousness."
"I see." Leech said, reaching his free arm towards the fallen woman. Suddenly, Blackshire intervened, grabbing the possessed woman's outstretched arm. "What are you doing? I thought you said you wanted me to kill Ryoko!"
"All in due time, my boy… all in due time." The evil body stealer stated. "For now, take Mayuka back to the ship, and put her in that special vat
I told you about…."
With a sneer on his face, the sinister creature scowled. "That's sick… even for you…" Having made his statement, the vile creation of Blackshire pressed a button on his special watch, signaling The Ebon Shard to teleport him back on board.
Looking at the unconscious woman at his feet, the terrifying monster smiled under his black helm. "It's almost time…."
A few moments later:
With a shimmer, and a hiss of matter being rearranged, a black haired woman appeared in the kitchen. "It's done," she muttered. "But I still think putting her in the vat was a waste of valuable of a life. I would have loved to siphon her essence out."
"Alright son," The ebon titan proclaimed, holding his armored hands high, causing his black cloak to whip about him frantically for a few moments. "It's about time to make my presence known, but first… keep our guest quiet, while I get ready."
As the ebon titan pressed random
keys on a hidden compartment of his gauntlet, Leech watched the door to the
kitchen. Guest? Who in the world is he talking about? Why does he keep talking like it's all part
of a script?
Almost as if in response to his question the door to the kitchen swung open, and in skipped Sasami, humming happily. "Oh," she said cheerfully, sounding both shocked and confused. "Who are you? Are you a friend of Tenchi's?"
"Actually," Sakuya smiled, as she reached forth grabbing the little girl in her strong grasp. "I'm more a friend of Yosho's." With a hand around the Jurain princess's throat, the life-draining creature began to siphon her prey's life.
"STOP IT LEECH!" Blackshire screeched, delivered a quick blow to the young woman's back. "I said keep her quiet, not KILL HER! Now just hold her. She's my new hostage."
Blackshire! Sasami mentally
screamed, now seeing her captor clearly. And Leech! But Yosho said Leech was dead…
"Now that all that's taken care of… Ebon Shard, are you ready?"
"Yes, Master," the computerized voice of the starship, proclaimed from the black knight's gauntlet.
"Then let the fun begin…." Raising to his full height, the dark figure held out his arms, where there's day there shall come night…." At that instant, the entire area sounding both Tenchi's home, and the Masaki shrine, suddenly became enveloped in darkness. Excellent! Phase one complete. The darkness caused by the darkness array will confuse them, setting them up for part 2…I must act quickly, since the array will not last too much longer…
Outside:
"What in the hell!" Ryoko Masaki shouted, rising to her feet, unable to see even her own hand in front of her face. It was a very unsettling feeling for the lithe woman, who could see in any kind of conditions, no matter how much light was available.
"What is going on, Washu?" Tenchi asked sounding more scared by this turn of events than he cared to admit. I thought this was Ryoko's doing. At least the visiting one, but she sounds as confused as the rest of us… gee that makes me feel a WHOLE lot better….
"Calm down, everyone!" Washu, from Torment, stated. "I don't know what is causing this, but we can't let ourselves get shaken by this…."
"Sasami!" Ayeka screamed, followed by the sound of something crashing. "Where are you?"
"Ayeka!" this dimension's Washu shouted, trying to get the Jurian's attention.
As the other's worried about their new condition, Blackshire phased through the wall, to stand outside, his eyes flickering with an unholy joy. They can't see me, but I can see them. One of the benefits of being in total control…. Holding out his hand, the ebon knight pointed his four fingers spread out to their limit at the table.
"Where there's smoke you will find fire…." As he uttered this command phrase, four blasts of green flame shot forth, landing on the table where the family had enjoyed their meal before all this began.
Just as everyone had managed to calm themselves, and slow their heart rate a little, emerald flame suddenly erupted before them, causing everyone to jerk back, not knowing what to make of this situation.
Now to end it all…. "Where once there was hope, you will now find…" at that instant, the darkness banished, and the ebon knight disappeared, reappearing in the middle of the dinner table.
"Blackshire!" Yosho screamed, as he rose to his feet, assuming a fighting stance.
"You remember me," the ebon monster stated happily, "sorry for being so late, but I brought a guest with me, and you know how long it can take women to get ready…. "
"Hello, Yosho…" a happy, energetic voice announced behind the assembled family, causing them all to turn their heads towards the new voice.
"Sakuya…." Yosho gasped, dropping his chopsticks. "But how…."
"Sakuya?" Blackshire asked, sounding confused as his teleported off the table, reappearing behind the black haired girl, looming over her like a shadow. In the possessed woman's arms, was Sasami, whose mouth was covered by one of the schoolgirl's hands. It was at that time, Yosho noticed her other hand. One finger was pressed against the blue-haired girl's throat, almost puncturing it. This was possible since for some reason a thick semi translucent substance seemed to cover the young captain of the volleyball team's hand. "Oh yes, that WAS this bodies name, wasn't it? But I'm afraid you have it all wrong, boy. You she's not her anymore. Instead, she's… well why don't you show them, son?"
At that moment, Sakuya appeared to be about to vomit, yet instead, a clear gel poured out of her mouth, nose, and ears. The strange substance flowed upward, taking a rather terrifying shape, the head of a nearly translucent gargoyle with crimson eyes. Of all those present, save Blackshire, only one recognized the terrible creature, that man was of course, Yosho Masaki.
"Leech…" he whispered, his voice a murmur of it's past self. "But why…."
"You want to know why? Why I come bearing such malice and plight, why I seek to give torment in place of delight?" The rhyming demon inquired. "It's really very simple… I do it, because I can."
Reaching to his side, the muscular youth drew forth the master key. Squinting the golden-eyed youth held the blade in his starting position, causing the blade to form before him. I had brought this along, in case father, and Lord Katsuhito had wished to train me better in using it. I never dreamed, not even in my worst nightmares, that Blackshire would still be alive. Even worse he's got Leech, or some monster like the original, with him.
"You brought the Tenchi-ken to a family reunion…" the ebon knight declared, a shocked look on his face, and a large sweat drop above his head, "and you have the gall to say I'm strange…."
"Enough of your chatter, Blackshire!" Yosho shouted, leaping over the table in a mad rush straight at his black armored foe. "Release Sasami, and prepare to die!"
The lord and master of the Ebon
Shard shrugged, moving his arms out in a stretching motion as he watched the
young man advance, his eyes showing no concern. However, the possessed woman behind him watched the entire scene
with morbid curiosity, and shock. What is he insane? Wait a
minute, of course he is! He's
Blackshire, but still letting Yosho attack him….
Turning away, leaving his back exposed to his attacker, the ebon knight looked at Sasami, who thrashed about in Leech's delicate hands, trying to free herself, while doing her best to avoid his taloned claw by her throat. "Now then little girl," he began kneeling before her. "Are you ready to go on a journey with me?" The pink-eyed princess made no reply; instead she could only look on with a terrified expression. "Of course I should say, you, Leech, me, and my other two hostages…."
Just as the Yosho's blade began to descend in its arc, the ebon knight took notice of him, and with a vicious smile concealed by his black helm, he uttered one word, which ended the battle. "Stop." Instantly the part Jurian's arms tensed, and his entire body froze. Standing up slowly the black armored monster looked at the statue like boy before him. "Good. Now then Yosho, bring me the Washu of this world." With a swift motion, more for emphasis than necessity, the demon from Torment pointed to his intended prey.
"Yosho!" Ryoko yelled at her son. "What are you doing? Kill him so we can save Sasami!"
"I don't think he'll be doing that," the possessed Sakuya said with a vicious grin. "Besides even if you save Sasami, he's still got-"
Leech's words were cut off as Blackshire held up one hand quickly. "Don't ruin it all yet son…. Now then Yosho, go." At that moment, the golden-eyed youth whirled about, the Tenchi-ken still clenched tightly in his grasp, however his eyes no longer held their golden glow, instead they now emitted the same evil glow as the vile demons. As everyone recoiled in momentary shock, Blackshire laughed. "No matter how many times I see it, I never get tired of that look on all your faces. Although to be honest it does shock even me. You should have remembered that those who have been in contact with me have had me in them, can't resist my powers. Yosho is no different. He was my beginning, and we shall always share a bond. But he's not the only one here I can control. There is also this dimensions space wench, who sadly is unconscious, and of course my personal favorite," the evil creature paused, pointed a clawed hand at Tenchi, "is you Masaki. Now then, come to me…." As he spoke, the vile murderer slowly closed his clawed hand, as if squeezing the life from the air, while his eyes glowed brightly with their unholy light.
Tenchi place a hand on his head, a sharp pain coming over him for a moment. Shaking his head the young man looked up, first at the monster that had attacked them, then to his son, who was slowly approaching the table. Standing up to his full height, the young man called out. "You're tricks aren't working, Blackshire! Now release Yosho, and Sasami right now!"
Under his helm, Blackshire sneered, his eyes now showing his hatred as they glowed like twin supernovas. "Well you can resist me… how interesting… but still even if I gave Sasami and Yosho back, I still have one last hostage. I still have Mayuka!"
"What!" Kiyone screamed her voice the loudest of those who shouted their shock. "How dare you kidnap her again?"
"Everyone has to eat," the ebon clad warrior shrugged. "I'm no exception, but don't worry, you'll all join her soon enough." Focusing on the red-haired woman, the evil creature from Torment made his offer. "Washu, if you will come with me, then this entire ordeal will be over. I was instructed by Lady Tokimi to bring you unharmed to see her. So please, just come with me."
Tokimi…? "Release Mayuka and Sasami, and I'll go with you." The short scientist said, standing to her feet, an obvious mistake, since she had appeared slightly taller when she had been sitting on the picnic table.
"I think not, but after I take you to my lady, I promise to release them." The ebon monster proclaimed.
Sasami leaned towards this universes Ayeka, "I don't trust him," she whispered. "Wouldn't Planet Jurai be able to destroy his ship with ease?"
"Yes," the purple haired woman announced, "however he has always been one to be over confident. Perhaps he thinks he can defeat Planet Jurai and us. Don't forget, a ship is coming to get my sister and I. He will never pass them."
Washu looked over at the whispering women out of the corner of her eyes, picking up every word. As she looked back at the ebon monster that seemed to hold all the cards, she nervously tapped her finger on the table, in a very random pattern.
However, the visiting scientist eyes squinted after a few moments, as she listened to the noise. Soon her head nodded slowly at the beat. Morse code… she realized. It's her password to her computer, and lab… NO! She can't be serious. Looking over at her counterpart with a stunned look, the red haired woman saw that this dimension's Washu had no humor on her face.
Nodding her agreement, Tenchi's mother in law agreed to what she heard, but she did not like it.
"All right Blackshire," Washu Hakubi said, walking around the long table to face the ebon knight. "Here I am, but tell me how do you plan on capturing me? I'm pretty crafty, what makes you think I won't free Mayuka, Sakuya, and Sasami, and get away?"
Smiling under his helm, the black clad monster reached into a compartment in his armor, pulling out two small diamond-like stones, each barely over an inch tall. "Like this…" he hissed, holding one in his outstretched arm towards Washu. At that moment, an intense flash of light arched forth, enveloping the tiny genius, who had been taken aback by this attack. An instant later, when the bright light faded, the little genius was gone, seemingly obliterated on the spot.
"He killed Washu!" Kiyone cried out, drawing her gun at the malicious creature before her.
"Hardly," Blackshire beamed, holding the gem, which had now grown to a full three inches in size before himself. What was even more starling was the miniature Washu, who appeared to be stuck in a state of perpetual shock, inside the gem. "It wouldn't have done me any good to kill her, but I couldn't have her messing with my plans. But don't worry, she'll be fine, the process doesn't hurt. Watch!" Flinging his hand over his head, the ebon monster held the second gem towards Leech, who still clutched Sasami, once again a beam of light filled the air, and when it faded, the other gem was filled, this time with Sasami. "Now I know you thought I would release Sasami when I had Washu, but I think I'll give my Lady Tokimi a two for one special… think of it getting both Washu and Tsunami at once!"
"Truly a nice package," Sakuya smiled walking seductively over to wrap her arms around the enslaved Yosho, whose eyes glowed an unholy green, just like Blackshire's. "Say dad," she yelled, "why don't we go home? This place is starting to get boring, and I am getting hungry…."
"Patience my boy…. Patience," the ebon knight laughed. "You and Yosho go back to the ship, I just want to say a few more things to my friends here before I go. Oh, and make sure you lock him up, we wouldn't want Masaki's boy running lose on the ship now would we?" Shrugging, the possessed woman cast a seductive smile at her creator, before pressing a button on her wristband, causing both her and the captive Yosho to be whisked away, into the floating Hell called The Ebon Shard.
"Now then, since we're alone…" He began, noticing everyone moving slowly, trying to surround him. "If I die, then so do Yosho and the others." Turning to face the second Washu, the creature with unholy eyes grinned. "Washu, I think you'll be finding this all to be repetitive of some other time very soon…." Holding his hands in the air, the black warrior slowly ascended. "By the way, Lady Ayeka, I personally saw to it that you won't be getting a ride home, not that you have a home to go to, what with that plague I unleashed there a few hours ago…. But that's neither here nor there. Like I said, if you want your family back, you know where I am. I am where there is no day, just night; where there is smoke, and fire; and of course, where you can finally find both Yosho and BLACKSHIRE…." With a final laugh, the black monster flickered, and with a hiss of matter being rearranged, disappeared.
"NOOOO!" a voice filled with both pain and sorrow screamed, seconds before Ryoko burst into view, her fists clenched in balls of rage as she landed on the ground, a few feet before where Blackshire had been mere moments ago. Growling furiously, the lithe space pirate was visible shaking, showing her intense anger and hatred. Her snarl, accented what appeared to be a fading red mark on her face, like something had smashed into it, and a small trickle of blood ran from the corner of her lip, causing those assembled to realize the ebon knight had not been lying when he had said he had taken Mayuka hostage.
Aboard the Ebon Shard:
The Control Room:
Sitting in his control seat, Blackshire casually looked about the room, appearing anxious, as if he was waiting for something. Almost as if in response to his boredom, the twin doors to his control center shot open, and in walked Sakuya, the young woman possessed by Leech.
"How is Mayuka?" The ebon monster growled looking at the two women encased in the miniature diamonds before him.
"Looks done to me," Leech said in a bored fashion. "But tell me, Master, what makes you so sure you can beat them this time? I mean you must suck at fighting, since they trounced you the other two times."
"First, I am a master fighter. Second, call me father, son," Blackshire declared, shifting in his seat at the helm. "But the reason you seek is very simple. You see the other two battles were in the Universe of Delight, but when next I face my foes, it will be on my home turf."
"So you're planning on fighting them in Torment? Are you planning on setting a trap?"
"Something like that. This ship, the inside, as well as an aura surrounding it, is actually a vortex to Torment. Anyone near, or inside this vessel will be fighting me in a universe where I can't possibly lose…"
"This is great," Leech hissed, "I can't wait to face off against Tenchi and his harem. You've told me so much about them, this is truly a dream come true."
With a flash of his razor sharp teeth, Blackshire grinned. "Sadly, my son you won't get that chance, at least not in the way you were thinking. Yes you will fight Masaki, and it will be in Torment, but not in the way you want it."
"What are you talking about?" the possessed woman complained, stomping her foot on the floor. "I wanna fight them!"
"No that's a pleasure I have enjoyed alone for the past endless cycles, remember we already discussed the part you play in my little drama…."
Smiling with sudden pride, the young woman looked up. "Oh Yeah! I almost forgot! Well, I guess I can give you those guys, if it means becoming a god!"
"I knew you'd see it my way," the ebon monster declared, "Now, let's claim our prize. It's time to end one war and being another all over again."
Earth:
"DAMN BLACKSHIRE!" Ryoko Hakubi shouted her fists clenched in fists of rage as she glared menacing at the ground, as if it were the cause of her pain. "I swear I'll send him to Hell for this, Personally!"
"Ryoko…." Tenchi whispered, placing his hand on her shoulder, in a vain attempt to calm her down. "You've got to relax, Washu says she has a plan, to save Sasami and the others, but she needs time to…."
"NO!" the silver-haired woman screamed, knocking his hand off her. "I don't need Washu, or her plans! That damn beast took my mom, daughter, and family from me, and for that I will never forgive him!" Spinning about so fast it almost seemed instantaneous, the golden-eyed woman stared daggers at the young man. "Tenchi… give me back my gems. I'm going after that beast, to put him down like the dog he is."
"But…" The brown-haired prince began, taken aback by her fury and passion. In his entire life, the young man had seen Ryoko go through a wide range of emotions, and rage was not one he was a stranger to. However it was the degree of hatred in her eyes which scared him, it was almost as if he was looking at another person. It was then he remembered when he had seen this look before…. Yosho, when I fought him aboard The Ebon Shard. He was possessed by Blackshire… his eyes were just like that. "Alright Ryoko," the part Jurain said calmly, "I'll give them to you, but you have to calm down first."
"Don't you tell me to calm down," the former space pirate growled, grabbing him by the shirt, trying to scare him into action. However as she spoke, the lithe woman's legs began to quiver, and her voice falters. "Just give them to me, I can't let him win. I refuse to let Blackshire take my family from me…. Not again…." At that instant, the young pirate's legs gave out, and she released his shirt, and collapsed to the ground. "I need to be stronger, or… Mayuka…Yosho…Sasami…" Tenchi knelt down, wrapping his arms around the troubled woman, with a heavy sigh to show his sympathy. It was then, in a voice so tiny, so meek, that none would have believed it came from the mighty woman was uttered, "I want my mommy…."
Closing his eyes, Tenchi rubbed her head soothingly, trying to rub away the pain. "It'll be alright, Ryoko. Don't worry. We'll get them back, and this time, Blackshire won't be making a comeback, I promise."
"And how do you plan on doing that?" Washu asked flatly, doing her best to hide the pain of losing her grandson, and being powerless to stop it. Of course, Blackshire's words to her still hung heavily on her heart, something he had said struck a cord in the ancient youth, making her feel very vulnerable right now.
"I say we go arrest him," Mihoshi proclaimed, sadness in her normally chipper voice.
"No." Kiyone hissed. "He claims to have killed everyone at the GP Headquarters, as well as The Science academy, not to mention…." The teal haired woman cast a glance at the crying Ayeka, who was held tightly in her would be sister's arms. Thinking better of saying anything, "If we do arrest him, there isn't anywhere we could put him where he wouldn't escape anyway. The best idea is simple. We do what Ryoko suggested. No quarter, we wipe him out for good this time."
For once there was no argument, no one would dare suggest otherwise, all eyes turned to Tenchi, who slowly released Ryoko leaving her kneeling before him as he stood to address his family. "I agree. I hate the idea of fighting, but this time Blackshire has gone to far. This is too much; too many have died because we didn't try hard enough. I don't care what it takes; we have to go after him. Mrs. Washu, what do you suggest?"
Laughing weakly at the absurdity of the situation, the young looking woman shook her head. "It's Little Washu," she muttered, before looking up to see all eyes focused on her. "When we got here, your Washu showed me a super cannon, which focuses all the power of her lab into one point. I think I can add my lab's power to it as well, but it might take me some time. Probably a day at the least…."
"We don't have that kind of time," Ayeka roared, tearing herself away from Sasami, and grabbing the little woman's clothes, to lift her so they stood face to face. "My sister could be…."
"Lady Ayeka…" Washu said simply, "put me down, please. There is a devise in your Washu's lab that will let me beam to any one point, even inside The Ebon Shard. IF you can get me close to that ship, then I should be able to destroy Blackshire completely with one blast."
"Then it is settled." Lord Katsuhito proclaimed, finally speaking up. "Tenchi, you will give Ryoko back her gems," pausing he looked at the downed woman, who met his gaze with a fierce understanding of what the old Jurain was giving up for her, "and then you will all go after Blackshire. When Washu finishes her work, she will join you, and then you will be able to end this eternal seeming war, between day and night, good and evil…."
"But how will we find him," Sasami spoke up, dismay in her voice. "You said The Ebon Shard is untraceable."
"It is." The emerald-eyed scientist said with a shrug, as she opened a link to this dimensions lab. "But fortunately for us, Blackshire doesn't believe in repairing things. One of his exhaust engines is leaking, and leaving us a trail. All we have to do it follow it, and he'll be ours in no time."
"Ryoko…" Tenchi said, after Washu had finished. Reaching down the young man offered her his hand. "Come on, we better get going, let's go get the sword."
Tenchi's Room:
Tenchi and Ryoko entered into the young man's room hastily, dismal expressions on each of their faces. For Ryoko this was something she had been wanting since that day hundreds of years ago, when Prince Yosho, Tenchi's grandfather, had taken them from her. Although to her joy, having them taken had been what had given her the life she had now. And I promise once I get them back, I'll use them to keep my life. No maniac in black armor is going to steal anything from Ryoko, the most dread space pirate ever!
Picking up the Tenchi-ken from his desk, the young man sighed, feeling a tension in his chest. I don't know why I feel so weird about this, but for some reason I've been dreading giving Ryoko back these. Probably because the last time she had them, she was under Kagato's control, and now with what Blackshire said earlier…. Wait a minute, he couldn't control me, and he claimed he could… not to mention the fact he'd lie at any given time, for any reason…. Still I wonder if he did do something to Planet Jurai, shaking his head, the young man roused himself, and turned to hold the sword towards the lithe woman. "Are you ready, Ryoko," he asked, swallowing hard.
Extending her arms, the slender woman merely nodded, closing her eyes, "just pray the gems returned to me, Tenchi, and then we can go get that creep."
It was an intense moment, as the two lovers stood barely over an arm length's apart, the young man holding the sword hilt towards the silver-haired mother's ample chest. A second later, the three gems began to glow, and one by one the powerful sources of Ryoko's power beamed from the sword to her wrists, and one nestled on her neck.
Opening his eyes, Tenchi was shocks to notice the lithe woman looked no different, save the three gems on her persona.
"What's the matter?" she asked feeling the rush of power from her gems.
"Well, you don't look any different…"
"Duh," Ryoko smiled, throwing her arms around Tenchi, being careful to avoid touching the Tenchi-ken. Finishing her hug, the lithe space pirate leaned back, looking into his deep brown eyes. "Now then, what's say we go save out daughter?" Nodding, the young man put his arm around her waist, as the two lovers slowly walked out of the room, ready to face the future, no matter what it might bring.
Space:
As the mighty GP ship, The Yagami, lifted into the endless darkness of space, those aboard had solemn expressions on their faces, the weight of not only the world, but also two entire universes resting on shoulders. Just as the massive red vessel cleared the atmosphere a might explosion shook the ship.
"What the hell!" The silver-haired woman snapped, yelling into a com-port nearby. "Kiyone, are we under attack or did you hit something?"
"Maybe Mihoshi is driving…" Sasami Jurai mumbled jokingly picking herself off the metal floor.
"It was a shot, but it wasn't fired at us." The teal-haired woman's voice said, coming over the speakers.
"Who was it fired at," Tenchi asked, afraid to hear the answer.
"It was fired at Okinawa." Kiyone began. "Tenchi…. I'm sorry, but that shot came out of nowhere. It looks like Blackshire had a trap set for when we came out of orbit."
"Kiyone!" the young man snapped, fear creeping fully into his voice. "What about my house, grandpa, and dad!"
However no answer came from the speaker, only silence. Yet in that unnerving silence, Tenchi Masaki knew what had happened, breathing deep he tightly closed his eyes, doing his best to bury the pain, until he could unleash it on the man who had caused it.
At that instant a video screen
popped up, a holographic image appeared, one with Blackshire's image upon
it. "I see you've decided to come after
me. Very noble, and also very foolish…. Still since you are seeking everything, I
feel you should have to put it all on the line. Life is a gamble is it not? But don't worry, everything you could ever want, ever dream of having is
on my ship. All the answers to your
problems; and the cure to what is ailing you. All you need do is find me. But
don't delay; besides destroying your home, that missile also unleashed a
terrible plague, one that will kill on life on your foolish world in a matter
of days. Still there is hope for your
planet, unlike Jurai, just find my ship, find me, and stop me, otherwise…game
over…" and with that said, the video stopped, its message played, and the
challenge issued. Now more than ever,
the Masaki family, both Universe's of it, were ready for action, ready to take
back what this monster had stolen from them, and to make sure he could never
harm another soul ever again.
Back on The Ebon Shard:
Nearly a Full Day later:
Lounging lazily in the captain's chair, the black haired woman dangled one leg over one of the chair's arms. "Hey computer?"
"Yes, Sakuya?" The mechanized voice proclaimed.
"It's Leech, you oversized tin can!" the emerald-eyed woman shouted rudely at the computer. "Now then, where is Blackshire?"
"He is in the throne room," it responded. "He asked not to be disturbed while he tested his new body."
New Body… eh? The possessed woman beamed. "So what happened to his old body?"
"It has deceased, and was jettisoned into space."
"What? Why? They could use that to track us!"
"The master agrees with you. He says it is what he had planned, that and to leave a trail so as not to lose our adversaries."
Rising to her feet, the young woman scowled, "THAT'S IT! If Blackshire wants to kill himself, that's
one thing, but when he gets me involved! I have godhood at stake here!" With heavy footfalls, Leech quickly made his way out of the control
room, towards The Ebon Shard's throne room, which in the past had been known as
Blackshire's bedroom, a place full of unbelievable terrors, and even worse,
Blackshire himself.
The Throne Room:
After his latest remodeling efforts, Blackshire was finally pleased with his throne room, which now rested at the heart of this ebon fortress of his. In his new body, the black knight darted around the room, testing its muscles and limits. If one never was unnerved by the sight of this abomination before, then his current appearance would more than make up for it. Once this creature had been a man in an armored shell, but now the armor was the creature. Composed of a strange chitinous material, the dark armor of Blackshire appeared wet, almost fluid like, as he moved. The face, which had once been a helm, now was a row of jagged teeth, resembling Kenzar's Helm, however these teeth were somewhat malleable, and seemed currently to be set in a sinister smile.
Flowing around the ebon monster was a long black cloak, making it appear as if his hands, feet, and head stemmed from a mass of shadows. Now standing well over eight feet tall, the vile monster was a bulking mass of power, a true testament to all that is evil and unjust.
"Blackshire!" Leech screamed, as he flung open the massive doors to the throne room. "What is going on here? You threw Koreas's body outside, and you're leaving a trail for them? Are you insane?"
"Did you hear what Washu was doing before we left Earth?" Blackshire asked, casually ignoring his creation's question, while he observed his flexing bicep.
"Yes, it sounded like Morse code, so what?" Leech growled, advancing forward, "what does that have to do with-"
"Did you notice anything unusual about it?" the ebon colored creature interrupted.
"It was mere stupidity, all zeros and ones." The body stealer proclaimed, holding out his arms in disgust. "That's not what I came her to talk to you about anyway, I want to know why…."
"It wasn't just zeros and ones," as he spoke, the master of this dark vessel leapt backwards, flipping in the air, to test the full agility of his new self. "It was binary code, she was giving her other self a message. On how she might beat us."
"And you let her do that!" Leech shouted enraged. "What are you crazy? I know you're nuts, but this is foolish! Leaving a body trail to the Database, and the ship tells me you've been leaving a trail for them to track, I know you think this vortex of yours will save you, but are you really that sure."
With a sudden hiss of dissipating matter, the black knight vanished, reappearing before his lackey. "Yes, son. I am. Do you know why?" The possessed Sakuya could only shake her head at his question. "It's very simple…. Since we are back in Torment, and Tokimi can't hear us, I may as well tell you. I knew how this all is going to end, before it even began. I have no intention of changing the outcome, despite the poor ending for myself. In the end, you were the key to all this. Your DNA tells my tale. Now, take your possessed body to Yosho's cell, and leave Sakuya there. You don't have much more time before your trip, and you need to be at your best, not bogged down by emotions. Besides, despite my overwhelming hatred for Yosho, I feel sorry for the idiot. I mean thinking he and his ilk even stood a slight chance against me? It's enough to make me die laughing! I can't help but wonder what will Yosho do with the love of his life, now that she has been returned to him?"
Unsure what to make of this new information, the black-haired woman bowed, respectfully. "Very well, but I still think this is a foolish idea…."
"What you think does not matter," Blackshire proclaimed, resuming his training. "At our current speed, we will be at the database in a few hours, and I will deliver not only Washu, but Sasami as well to my lady. She will give me the power I seek, and then… Then the war shall come to an end…." As the black metal door to Blackshire's throne room slammed shut, a horrible sound echoed down the halls, the sound of a demon laughing….
Next Time: Blackshire! Tokimi! Hostages! Sakuya and Yosho! Not to mention more mysteries being solved! What was Blackshire talking about to Washu? Will this story have a happy ending? Can it have a happy ending? If Blackshire gets the power he seeks, what will it take to stop him? Plus what happened to poor little Mayuka? Has she been eaten like a stew? Only time, and the next few chapters will tell…. Chapter 22: The Final Battle Begins
