Ryoko sat on the roof and stared up at the stars, thinking about what her and Tenchi had talked about. She smiled and chuckled to herself as she saw how much closer they now were. It may not have been a lot, but to Ryoko, it was the world. She had always dreamed of Tenchi accepting her like he did Ayeka, and now he did. They had worked out the hugging and clinging thing, and Ryoko felt like a burden had been lifted from her shoulders. She leaned back and let out a sigh as she thought of where this could lead. She would have to take small steps, but she now had her foot in the door. She had come to realize by talking to Tenchi, that her behavior really turned him off towards her and that's just the opposite of what she wanted. She wanted him to love her like she loves him, and to accomplish that, she would have to resist most of her urges to tackle him.
"How about a game of football? That way you could tackle him all you wanted and it would be expected," Washu said as she walked out of a portal that appeared behind Ryoko, causing the pirate to jump.
"You know, I really wish you would respect my privacy and stay out of my thoughts," Ryoko said dryly as she wrapped her arms around her knees. Washu shrugged her shoulders helplessly and took a seat next to her and gaze up at the stars.
"You always did love staring at the stars at night," Washu said in a distant voice.
"I know you say that I had a childhood, but Kagato told me I was only a machine. I was told that for so long that I don't know if I can believe anything else," Ryoko said as she lowered her head.
"You did have a childhood, and a happy one at that," Washu said, but that was all she said. That was all she ever said. She never mentioned any memories or any cute things Ryoko had done in the past. Just that she had a happy childhood and that was it.
"If it's true, than why don't you ever tell me more?" Ryoko asked as she looked over at the tiny redhead. Washu remained silent for a long time before slowly shrugging her shoulders.
"There's a lot I'm not ready to tell you yet, Ryoko. I know it's rude of me to say that and not explain myself, but this is more than just a bedtime story," Washu said as she looked over at her daughter. Ryoko stared at her for a long time before slowly looking back out over the stars.
"Just tell me one thing," she said in a soft, distant voice.
"What?"
"Was I really created in a lab?" she asked. Washu gaped at her, wondering where that had come from.
"Why do you ask?" Washu asked, still a little thrown off my the nature of the question and not knowing how to tell her without telling the whole story here and now.
"It's hard to explain, but I feel as though I'm missing something. Something…odd," Ryoko said.
"Define 'odd'."
"It's as though I'm not only me, but someone else. Like there's this thing about me that changes who I am. Am I making any sense?" Ryoko asked as she looked over at Washu with a pleading look on her face. Washu smiled at her and closed her eyes before licking her lips and staring out over the stars again.
"You're making perfect sense, Ryoko," she whispered, unable to find her voice long enough to say it any louder.
"You know what it is, don't you?" Ryoko accused after a long silence.
"…"
"Mom, why won't you tell me?" Ryoko asked urgently, almost begging.
"Ryoko, give me time. I promise I will explain to you, but you must give me time. Please," Washu said as she looked over at Ryoko.
"I believe I've given you enough time, mother," Ryoko said, spitting out the word mother as though it was foreign to her. Washu looked over at her and wrinkled her brow before tilting her head with a stern look.
"So now you're going to hate me because I can't tell you right away? My promise to tell you isn't enough to make you happy?" Washu spat.
"No, it's not! I've lived here with you for a long time and you have told me nothing. Nothing! You're keeping me in the dark and it's driving me nuts!" Ryoko shouted as she flailed her arms around.
"Ryoko, there's a lot about my past that I don't know about, but you at least have someone who can tell you. I may not be telling you anything now, but be thankful that I have the ability to tell you!" Washu shouted before rising to her feet. Ryoko stared at her before blinking at her stupidly.
"What are you talking about?" she asked.
"I know I was a goddess, but is there anyone here to tell me why I left it? Why I chose to become human? Is there anyone to tell me what I was like or what I did? No. I have no way of finding out unless I return and I'm not even sure I can do that!" Washu said as she stared to pace the roof. Ryoko's eyes widened as she heard her mother speak of her past in this manner before swallowing hard.
"Y-you wouldn't try and return to that…would you?" she asked in an almost fearful voice.
"If I was pushed far enough, I might try," Washu sneered as she continued to pace the roof. She then stopped and let out a sigh as she pinched the bridge of her nose before turning towards Ryoko with an apologetic look.
"I'm sorry, Ryoko. I didn't mean to sound so harsh, nor did I mean what I said. It's not your fault…and it never was," Washu said in a soft, understanding voice. Ryoko looked up at her and let these words sink in before letting out a sigh of her own.
"I just want to know and you won't tell me. It's aggravating," Ryoko said as she hung her head. Washu stopped her pacing knelt down next to her with her hand on her daughter's shoulder.
"I know, but I need time. I promise you'll get the explanation you want, just not tonight," Washu said before calling up her portal and leaving Ryoko on the roof.
***
Ayeka slowly opened her eyes to find herself surrounded by darkness. She wrinkled her brow and slowly came to realize she was curled up in the fetal position and was nowhere she recognized. There was nothing in the room, save for the darkness that wrapped itself around her and weighed down on her with the realization that she was alone.
"Miss Washu?" she called. She slowly rose to her feet and let out a squeak as she hit her head on something hard. She brought her hands up and felt the ceiling only inches from her crouched position. She then felt around her and found that she wasn't in a room, like she had thought, but a small box. She ran her hands over the small walls that kept her bent over on her knees, but found nothing that would release her.
"Miss Washu, you let me out this instant!" she shrieked, hearing the boom of her own voice echoing in her ears. She started to slam her fists against the small prison and let out a shriek of anger as it proved to help in no way, other than causing her hands to sting from her blows. She then regretted having spoken to the scientist in such a harsh manner, seeing there was nothing she could do, other than wait for something to happen.
***
"Washu, where's Ayeka?" Tenchi asked as she entered into the lab from her portal. She blinked at him before letting out a sigh and walking over to a small box that sat in the corner of the room. She hoisted herself up onto it and crossed her legs before tilting her head curiously at the young boy.
"She's just doing some time," she said with a sweet smile.
"Well, Sasami's really worried about her. I think you should leave her alone," Tenchi said in a flat voice as he stared the scientist in the eye. Washu searched his face for a moment before leaning back on her palms and puckering her lips in thought.
"Who are you more worried about? Sasami or Ayeka?" she asked as she lazily kicked at the box she sat upon. Tenchi let out a sigh and actually thought about his before looking back over at her with a straight face.
"Both," he said.
"Both, huh?" Washu chuckled in amusement.
"And why do you find that so funny?" he asked, clearly insulted by her taunting.
"I'm no fool, Tenchi, so don't take me for one. I know how you feel about my daughter as well as how you feel for the others in the house," she said with a smirk. She saw him tense and knew that this was her opportunity.
"I never took you for a fool, Washu, but I don't always agree with your methods," he said.
"I see. I guess that's understandable. As for your feelings, I can relay them if you're too shy to tell me," she said as she curtly tilted her head while still leaning on her palms.
"I care for everyone in the house. What is there for me to tell?" he asked in the same flat voice.
"Well, you care for everyone, yes, but who do you care most for?"
"…"
"Sasami is a close friend, but way to young for you to think of her in any means other than a dear friend," Washu started, pausing only to wait and see what he had to say to that, but continued when he remained silent. "Mihoshi…we won't go there. I think we all know how everyone feels about that bimbo. Kiyone is also a good friend, but married to her work, so she's not really the one we're shooting for. That brings us to Ryoko and Ayeka. Take the show, Tenchi my boy. Tell me who you care deeper for."
"I care for them both. I can't make a choice," he said as he lowered his head slightly.
"You obviously care more for one than the other, Tenchi. You know who it is, too. What's keeping you from confessing? It's not like I'm going to tell them the second I hear your decision, because I know you've made it already," Washu accused as she waved a finger at him.
"I'm not so sure about that, little Washu," he said as he scratched the back of his head. Washu wrinkled her brow with a hurt look as she saw how little he trusted her. Did the others think this way too?
"I trusted you with my story, Tenchi, so why are you hesitant to trust me?" Washu asked as she picked up on kicking the side of the box once again. He looked up at her and saw the look on her face before feeling like dirt. She was right. Her story about Ryoko's past wasn't something that she told often, and she really didn't have to tell him anything when he entered her 'room' that day.
"I'm sorry, Washu. It's just that… I don't really know who I love," he said.
"Don't give me that, Tenchi. You do and I know it. I've been around for a long time and I've seen just about everything there is to see in this universe. I can see right through you, boy. Tell me," Washu snapped. Tenchi stared at her for a moment before walking over and leaning up against the side of the box she sat on and thought about this for a moment.
"And why do you want to know?" he asked suddenly.
"Because my daughter is involved in this decision. You know how much I try to make her happy, and I'm just curious," Washu said as she idly kicked her feet. Tenchi then hung his head and let out a long sigh before thinking about what she was asking him to confess.
"Ayeka's great in all ways, I think. She's mannerly, kind to anyone but Ryoko, thoughtful towards everyone but Ryoko, and she's always willing to help a friend," he said, listing what he thought of Ayeka.
"Says a lot for Ryoko, huh?" Washu chuckled, trying to hide the fury she still held for the princess.
"But Ryoko can be all those things too. Sure, she has her bad days, but I've come to realize that she just has a little trouble in expressing herself within boundaries. She's never had anyone to love and now she's living with me, and I would love to be able to grow close to her and I'm willing to give her the chance," he said. Washu smiled at him and looked down at her feet before kicking the side of the box again, causing it to ring through the lab.
"You never mentioned your name," he said after a short pause as he playfully nudged her.
"I think we both know the answer to that one, Tenchi," she chuckled.
"You think I didn't consider you?" he asked with a tilt of his head. Washu looked up at him before wrinkling her brow and tilting her head curiously at him.
"You mean to tell me that you would actually consider being with someone who is way beyond your years?" she asked with a small smile of amusement.
"Naw. I just thought you'd like to think so," he joked before receiving a playful blow to the stomach. For a moment, it was like Ryoko punching him in the gut, and he realized that not all that strength she harbored came from the Clav, but from Washu herself.
"You must think you're so funny, huh Tenchi?" Washu chuckled.
"I'd like to think so. I made you smile, didn't I?" he asked with his own chuckle.
"So, you didn't tell me your decision. You just told me what you like about both girls," Washu said as she continued kicking the box.
"Why are you so interested in whom I love?" he asked suddenly.
"I told you why. One of these choices just happens to be my daughter, Tenchi," Washu said. Tenchi let out a sigh and lowered his head before lifting it to the ceiling.
"I love them both. Ryoko's past, however, really makes me think, though," he said.
"You're telling me you won't love her because of who she really is?" Washu said in a flat voice. Tenchi looked over and felt a shiver run through him as he saw the disapproving look on her face.
"Washu, I've seen a lot of crazy stuff since you all came to live here, and this is just another one of those instances. Honestly, It doesn't really change the love I have for her, and to tell you the truth, I'm considering her more so than Ayeka at this point. There's a lot I'm finding out about her and now that I had that talk with her, things are looking better with every passing day. It's just that…I don't fully understand what this is, that's all," Tenchi said as he lowered his head.
"Tenchi, it doesn't change who she is and I'm overjoyed to hear you say that. As for what you're confused about, I've prevented that from ever happening, so it shouldn't affect your relationship with her, if you decide to start one," Washu said in a soft voice as Tenchi looked up and tilted his head at her.
"What do you mean?" he asked.
"Come back after dinner. There's more I need to tell you," she said before motioning for him to leave her alone for a while. He nodded without question and made his way out of the lab while Washu watched him go before wrinkling her brow.
"What do you think, princess?" she asked into the emptiness of the lab. She looked over at the box she had been sitting on and smiled to herself before walking over and leaning against it.
"How does it feel to hear that your rival is winning this battle for Tenchi's heart?" she asked as she rested her head on her arms. She then smiled and chuckled to herself before standing up and calling up the door to her room.
"I'll leave you to think about it for a while. This will just teach you not to cross me again, little girl," Washu spat before disappearing into the confines of the fake castle walls.
***
"Did you find Ayeka?" Sasami asked as Tenchi entered the living room. He smiled at her and ruffled the hair on her head with a chuckle.
"She's fine. Washu just needs a little time to talk to her," Tenchi said.
"Are you sure? Will she be at dinner tonight?" the little girl asked, the concern never leaving her voice.
"No, she won't be at dinner, but I promise you that she's fine," Tenchi said as he sat on the couch. Ryoko the appeared in the center of the room and tilted her head at him with a sweet smile. Tenchi stared up at her and returned her smile, thinking she was beautiful when she was calm.
"Tenchi, could you come with me on a walk before dinner?" she asked sweetly. Tenchi then chuckled as he stood up, thinking Washu acted the same way when she wanted something. It was kind of cute, how she resembled and acted like her mother sometimes.
"Sure. How long do we have, Sasami?" Tenchi asked as he proceeded to put his shoes on.
"It should be ready in about half an hour," she said in a gloomy voice. Tenchi walked over to her and knelt before her while holding her shoulders and smiling at her.
"She'll be fine. Washu's just upset and wants to talk to her," Tenchi said, receiving a weak smile from the little girl before heading out the door with Ryoko.
***
Ryoko stared up at the stars as her and Tenchi walked down the path. It was a full moon out, so it wasn't hard to see and she admired how the moon reflected Tenchi's features, making him look older than he really was.
"To what do I owe the pleasure of this walk?" Tenchi asked as he looked over at Ryoko. She smiled and hugged his arm before letting go, knowing how he liked his space.
"I just wanted to spend some time with you. I know Ayeka is in the lab with mom, so we'll have our privacy. Besides, she's had more privacy with you than I have, so I want to catch up a bit," she said in an almost giddy voice.
"That's understandable. So, what are you thinking right now?" he asked. She lowered her head for a moment and wrinkled her brow as her conversation with her mother popped into her head.
"I don't really know. There's a lot about my past that I don't understand, and mom won't tell me," she said in a soft voice. Tenchi stopped and grabbed her arm gently, halting her and turning her to face him. The moon was behind him and shown down on her face, making her appear like an angel before him. He stared at her and smiled sweetly, even though he knew she couldn't see it.
"She has her reasons, I'm sure. What did she say?" he asked. Ryoko lowered her head again and thought about it before looking back up at Tenchi with a thoughtful tilt of her head.
"Tenchi, what do you think of me?" she asked suddenly, throwing Tenchi off guard.
"I…I don't understand your question," he said, not knowing what to tell her. He didn't want to betray Washu and let anything slip.
"I feel as though I'm missing something. Something about myself that would…change me," she said as she looked at the ground. Tenchi took her shoulders in his hands and forced her to look at him before tilting his head again.
"What do you mean 'change' you?" he asked, knowing very well what she was talking about. Yet, he couldn't let on that he knew.
"I don't know. I feel something inside me that I've felt my whole life, but could never understand. Kagato had always told me that I needed to change. I had to. he tried to force me, but I never understood what he was aiming for," Ryoko said in a soft voice.
"Have you told Washu?" he asked.
"I have, but she won't tell me. I know she knows what it is, but she told me she couldn't tell me yet," she said in a bitter voice. Tenchi let out a sigh and rubbed her arms comfortingly before continuing their walk.
"I'm sure she will, Ryoko. Washu's lived a long time and has had a hard life, so she's probably just trying to figure out a few things. She doesn't want to hurt you, so she's probably thinking of a way to tell you about your past so that it won't upset you," he said before biting his lip as he heard his words. He had a feeling he's said too much already.
"You make it sound as if you know something I don't," Ryoko said in an amused voice. Tenchi chuckled nervously and scratched the back of his head before glancing over at her.
"I know no more than you do. I'm just stating the facts I know. It's obvious that her life has been hard, and if she won't tell you about your past right away, than it probably means that something's still bothering her," he said.
"You're right. I just want to know so badly that I jump to conclusions. I'm sorry, Tenchi," she said in a soft voice. Tenchi stopped again and stared at her, wondering where that had come from. She's never come out and apologized like this before, so it was a shock to him, almost. He then realized that her past didn't matter to him as much anymore. He didn't see the fun-loving, spunky Ryoko standing before him in the moonlight, but the compassionate one that wasn't afraid to show her feelings anymore. Since she's healed her relationship with Washu, she's been more pleasant to be around. Tenchi could now see that what he had told Washu was indeed true. He loved her. He loved Ayeka as well, but right now, Ryoko was tipping the scales in her favor.
"Is something wrong, Tenchi?" she asked.
"No, no. I was just thinking," he said as he smiled at her.
"About what?" she asked playfully as she took his hands in hers, swinging them side to side. He chuckled at her and gently pulled his hands away before walking over to her. He could sense her tension as he stood only inches from her and he tilted his head as he stared at her face.
"About how beautiful a person you are and how much I really care for you," he whispered. He heard her breath catch in her throat as he mentioned her as a person. No one had ever really referred to her as a person, other than Washu. She then lowered her head and walked past him without a word, heading back to the house.
"Ryoko, wait," he said as he gently grabbed her arm. She pulled away and looked at him with the moon to her back now.
"No, Tenchi. I want to find out about myself before I give in to my love for you. I love you with all my heart, Tenchi, but I don't feel complete yet," she pleaded. Tenchi was a little shocked that she didn't squeeze the life out of him when she heard that he cared for him but smiled nonetheless and nodded his head slowly.
"I'll wait. I have strong feelings for you, Ryoko, but I will respect any decision you make," he said as he joined her at her side as they walked back to the house. Halfway there, still walking in silence, he reached out and gently took her hand in his and was content with holding hands in the silence of their stroll.
***
Everyone, scratch Ayeka, sat down at the table to begin the meal Sasami had prepared and ate in silence for the first few moments before Sasami spoke up.
"Washu, where's Ayeka?" she asked sternly. Washu blinked at her and then at the others before smiling at the little princess.
"She's fine," she said before continuing with her meal.
"That's not what I asked. I want to know where she is," Sasami said in a slightly angered voice.
"You're sister is doing a bit of time for her quick tongue," Washu snapped as she looked up.
"What did she say? I'm worried about her, Washu," Sasami said, almost on the verge of tears. Washu placed her chopsticks down and rested her elbows in the table while holding her chin in thought.
"You don't trust me?" she asked.
"It's not that I don't trust you, Washu. I'm just worried. That's all," Sasami said as she stared at the scientist.
"In other words, you don't trust me," Washu said in a soft voice, more to herself than to anyone else.
"Washu, please. Just tell me where she is and I'll be happy with that, knowing that she's okay," Sasami said, now seeing she had insulted the scientist.
"Sasami, you're sister has a lot to learn, especially what she says around me. I don't tend to take things lightly and she stepped way over her boundaries this time. All I'll tell you is that she most likely won't be the same princess when you see her again," Washu said before continuing with her meal once again.
"What do you mean by that?" Tenchi asked, joining the conversation.
"It's not important. Just eat and be happy," Washu said with a smile, as though none of this was anything to worry about.
"No, Washu! I want to know where my sister is and I want to know now!" Sasami shouted as she rose to her feet. Washu gave her and blank look that sent chills down her spine and forced her to take her seat again.
"I have to say I'm hurt by your words, Sasami. It hurts to see that none of you trust me. Your sister said things that upset me on a level that none of you could possible understand and I want to make sure she doesn't say them again. I'll be in the lab if you have anymore questions, or do you not trust me enough to come talk to me?" Washu said in a grave voice before getting up and leaving the room.
***
Tenchi entered the lab without any hesitation and found Washu nowhere.
"Washu?" he called, not receiving an answer. He walked in and saw the door to her room appear and wasted no time in inviting himself in. He sat on the bed and waited patiently as she stared out the windows in her usual attire when in this room. She then turned at looked at him with a tired look and let out a sigh.
"I'm sorry I acted so rash at dinner. I just keep having this feeling that I'm not wanted and that I only cause a burden," she said as she looked at the floor with her hands folded at her chest. Tenchi stood up and walked over to her before taking her shoulders in his hands.
"Washu, you're not a burden. It would kill me to see you think like that. Sasami's just worried about her sister. What would you do if this happened to Ryoko?" he asked.
"It did," she said with a pale chuckle. Tenchi then smacked himself in the forehead as he remembered the whole Kagato thing.
"Sorry," he said with a snort.
"It's okay," Washu said as she shook her head slightly.
"What did happen? I mean, how didn't Kagato get Ryoko if she wasn't at the academy?" Tenchi asked. Washu took a deep breath and let it out slowly before walking over to the bed and sitting up against the pillows with her legs crossed Indian style.
"I guess it would be best to pick up where I had left off. I had taken Ryoko in as my own and had raised her myself, like I said I was going to do…"
**************************************************************************************
The castle was quiet except for the soft chatter of the servants and soft growls from the Clav that wandered around the hallways, looking for any sign that they might be needed. The King, Mikollious, sat on his throne, working on a new law and taking a few comments from the civilians about it while the Queen, Paradise, sat next to him while welcoming the people as they entered the large, well lit room.
"That will be all," Mikollious said as he waved the commoner away while writing down the comment that was received. He let out a sigh and rubbed the bridge of his nose wearily and smiled slightly as he faintly heard the clicking of claws, fast approaching the throne room.
"Come back here, Putiko!" he heard a very young Ryoko shout as the gray Clav ran into the room with a smile on his cat-like features and a small, elegantly wrapped package tucked safely under his arm. He spun around and his smile widened as he braced himself for the tackle that little four-year-old Ryoko was about to plow him over with. Mikollious smiled and Paradise chuckled at the innocent play that the two took part in. Ryoko let out a shout as she tackled the massive beast to the floor and it was obvious that he allowed this to happen, for Ryoko's small size wouldn't have even shook him if he hadn't tipped himself backwards. He tumbled over into his back and let out a grunt as he hit the floor, smiling at the giggling little girl on top of him.
"Come on! Give it to me!" she whined as she tried to reach the packaged that he was now holding above his head, out of her small grasp.
What do you say? he growled, knowing that her mother had started teaching her his language. She thought for a moment, trying to make out his words, seeing that she was still learning. Washu then walked in from where they had burst into the room with a smile on her face, hearing the question.
"What did he say, little Ryoko?" she asked as she walked over to Mikollious' side, still smiling. Ryoko sat up and tilted her head in thought, trying to make out his words as he waited patiently for her to either answer him or get off him. She let out a huff and stood up, walking over to her mother as the beast slowly rose to his feet, following her.
"I don't know," she said in defeat as she hung her head. Washu walked over to her and pulled a small notepad from her newest invention. A portal that would allow her to store and access anything she put in it. Its space was unlimited and could hold anything of any size, big or small. She called it subspace.
"Yes you do," she said softly as she knelt in front of her daughter, holding the pad out so that she could see it. The young child looked at it and tilted her head as she read the hints on its page. Washu couldn't help but beam proudly at the intelligence this child had. She had already learned to read and write and was now working on the Clav's language and doing an excellent job, considering she was only four. Also the fact that she was partially Clav helped a great deal. Yet, Washu was still uneasy about it, so she had blocked her Clav abilities after accepting her as her own. She didn't want her daughter to take part in a race that would have others look down on her. She was too special for that treatment.
"I know he asked a question. Something about 'what' and 'say'," the little girl said, piecing it together out loud before smacking herself on the forehead as realization dawned on her.
"Duh! He asked 'what do you say', right?" she asked, looking over at her mother with her own proud look.
"Good job. Now, what do you say?" Washu asked, repeating his question for her. Ryoko smiled and turned to Putiko who was smiling at her, still holding the package behind him.
"Pleeeeease?" she asked in a long, drawn out plead. Putiko tilted his head and raised his gaze to the ceiling in thought before letting out a sigh and walking over to her, handing the package out to her. She smiled and reached for it, but he pulled it away, just out of her reach again. Ryoko let out a grunt and turned to face her mother.
"Mommy, he's not playing fair!" she whined as she stomped her foot. Washu smiled and shrugged her shoulders, feigning helplessness. Ryoko then wrinkled her brow in confusion and tilted her head, drawing Washu's attention.
"What is it, little Ryoko?" she asked as she walked over to her.
"I don't know. I feel…weird," Ryoko said as she scratched her head. Washu let out a sigh and knelt in front of her, knowing what this was. Ryoko was unaware of the Clav within her, but Washu had wanted it that way. She would have no need to know until she was old enough to understand what had happened four years ago.
"Explain to me how you feel," Washu said. She always had Ryoko tell Washu her feelings when this happened. It not only helped Ryoko recognize it, but it aided Washu in finding a way to prevent them.
"I feel a weird pain in my tummy," she said slowly.
"Are you ill?" Washu asked as she pulled Ryoko close to her. The little girl still had the confused wrinkle on her face as she leaned against her mother as she wrapped her arms around the small child protectively.
"I don't know," Ryoko whined. Washu let out a sigh and kissed the top of her daughter's head as she gently picked her up off the floor, letting her rest her head on her shoulder. Washu gently rubbed her back and thought of how to rid her daughter of these reoccurring feelings of sickness.
"Don't think about it, little one. You've been playing hard today, so you probably only need to rest," Washu said. Ryoko picked her head up and shook it violently as she heard her mother suggest a nap. She hated naps with a passion.
"No! I want to play with Putiko! I'll be good, honest!" Ryoko whined as a look of sadness crossed her small features. She always associated a nap with being in trouble and Washu knew it.
"You're not in trouble, little Ryoko. I just want to make sure you're okay. I worry about you," Washu said, searching her daughter's face for some form of understanding. Ryoko let out a childish sigh and hung her head before smiling up at her mother.
"I feel better now," she said, even though the look on her face didn't compliment what she was saying. Washu chuckled at her and kissed her on the forehead.
"Nice try. You still need a nap," she said as she placed her back on the floor. She then turned to Putiko, who was watching the scene with slight concern for the little girl's health and came when Washu beckoned him. Washu gave Putiko a look that told him to drop the game he was playing and smiled as he nodded his head. He walked up behind Ryoko and brought the package around in front of her face while looking over her shoulder. She smiled widely and gratefully took the package and unwrapped it vigorously to get at the contents inside. Her face light up like a Christmas tree and a large, opened mouth smile crossed her small face as she pulled out a small, yet very well crafted doll. Its velvety fur was gray and its hair was light blue. It was Putiko. She had one from when she was a baby, but it was so old, the seams were coming apart, and the stuffing was hanging out in various spots from it never leaving her side. Washu couldn't help but grin at the glee on her daughter's face from the gift. She loved Putiko, as did everyone else, but none loved him more than Ryoko and Washu. He was Ryoko's best friend and loyal servant to the scientist. Ryoko then spun around and tackled the beast to the floor, catching him of guard and he let out another grunt upon hitting the stone. Despite her age and size, she was an extremely strong child.
"Thank you!" she cried as she hugged him in a tight bear hug.
Your welcome, giggles he growled, using his nickname for her. She did exactly that and playfully punched him in the shoulder, causing him to mock pain and toss his head to the side.
"Come on, Putiko! That didn't hurt!" Ryoko accused as she sat up, placing her hands on her hips while still holding the doll tightly in her grasps. He turned his head and tilted it to the side with a curious look.
Yes it did he said in a playful tone. Ryoko smiled at him and stuck her tongue out in a raspberry.
It did! he growled enthusiastically, giving her a shocked look.
"You're a big baby!" Ryoko jeered playfully as she jumped off him.
I'll show you baby he growled as he stood up, getting ready to charge her. Ryoko didn't catch all of what he said, but she had understood enough and shrieked as she ran over to her mother to hide behind her legs. Washu chuckled and picked her up again before giving her a hug and resting her on Putiko's back as though he was a horse. Ryoko let out a long yawn and burped loudly, showing the oncoming sickness she felt despite her attempts to ignore it. Washu let out a sigh and knelt beside the beast while taking Ryoko's hand and gave Putiko a look that told him to be quick unless he wanted a bath later on.
"Putiko's going to take you to the nurse in your room, okay? You tell her how you feel and she'll take care of you. I'll be there in a little while, okay?" Washu said. Ryoko let out another small burp before shaking her head.
"I want you to come now, mommy," she whined before taking a deep breath.
"I'll be right behind you. Go with Putiko, okay?" Washu said.
"Okay, mommy," she said as she leaned down to rest her head on Putiko's back. The Clav then slowly made his way out of the room, making sure he wasn't too bumpy a ride for the sick little girl. Washu let out a sigh as she watched them leave. This wasn't the first time this has happened. The block she had put up was causing Ryoko this sickness, seeing her body wanted to change, but wasn't being allowed the chance.
"Such an innocent child. It pains me to see her so uncomfortable like this," Mikollious said as he watched the two leave the room. Washu slowly nodded her head as she stood in front of them.
"I'm proud of you, Washu," Paradise said, receiving a nod from Mikollious.
"For what?" she asked with a lost, dreamy look on her face as she continued to look after her daughter. After taking her under her wing, Washu found that she hated herself for ignoring her in the first place. She was such a lovable child and sharp as a tack to boot.
"For taking her in. She deserves the love that you have for her," Paradise said as she stretched her arms tiredly. Washu looked over at them and smiled slightly as she thought of the love she really did show for Ryoko. Yet she felt she hasn't done enough to make up for what she had done to her daughter.
"You're an excellent mother, Washu," Mikollious said as he stood up, walking to the other end of the throne room, planning on relaxing for a while with his wife. Washu continued to smile, even after they had left the room. She was proud of her daughter and it showed with every glance, every hug, and every word that she gave the little girl. Washu finally let out a sigh and headed for her daughter's room.
***
Putiko entered Ryoko's room and growled lowly at the nurse as she rose from her seat.
"What seems to be the problem?" she asked in her jolly tone. She lifted the little girl off Putiko's back and set her on her bed before seeing the uncomfortable look on her face.
"Not feeling so great, huh?" the nurse asked as she prepared the bed for the little girl. Ryoko let out a sigh and lazily rolled her head to the side as her tiredness filled her to the brim.
"I want my mommy," she whined before her eyes filled with tears. The nurse gave her a sympathetic look, knowing how a child is when they're ill. They want to be cuddled by the ones they loved the most.
"Mommy's right here," Washu said as she entered the room with a small smile on her face. The nurse let out a sigh of relief upon seeing the scientist. That means her work would be easier. Washu picked Ryoko up as she reached up for her and walked over to the window and sat on the sill while staring out over the kingdom. Ryoko rested her head on Washu's chest as she idly played with a string of fire red hair that dangled over her mother's shoulder.
"Mommy's here. She'll take care of you," Washu cooed as she stroked Ryoko's cyan hair.
"I don't feel good," she muttered softly. Washu chuckled and slightly rocked her back and forth.
"I know, I know. Just try and sleep and it will go away," Washu said as she continued to stroke the little girl's hair away from her face.
"I really, really don't feel good," Ryoko whined as she started to fidget in Washu arms. Washu looked over at the nurse with a quick glance and smiled as the nurse promptly brought over a large bowl for the now hiccupping little girl. Just in time, too, seeing Ryoko wasted no time in loosing it in the bowl rather than on her mother's dress. Washu cooed to her and rubbed her back gently, waiting for her to finish and took the cloth offered to her to wipe Ryoko's face.
"Feel better?" she chuckled as she saw the gloomy look on the little girl's face.
"No," she whimpered as she cuddle back up to her mother. Washu let out a sigh and walked over to the bed before lying down next to Ryoko and letting her cuddle next to her. This was a frequent ritual for her and she was worried, but knew that this would pass.
"Is there anything you need?" she asked.
"My dolly," she said as she started to sit up.
"Just lay here. I'll get it for you," Washu said as she sat up, searching the bed for the Putiko doll her daughter was requesting. She found it near the edge of the bed and took it in her hands and admired the craftsmanship of it before handing it to Ryoko who held it close to her.
"Anything else?" Washu asked. Ryoko only shook her head and let out a sigh as she closed her eyes. Washu then laid down again and smiled as Ryoko cuddled up to her. She felt a light, yet welcoming throb in the pit of her stomach as she saw just how much she loved Ryoko and how much the little girl loved her. The nurse asked her with her eyes if she was still needed and left the room as Washu nodded towards the door. Putiko then popped his head over the edge of the bed and gave Washu a concerned look.
"Everything's fine, Putiko. Go tell the King that we'll most likely be in here the rest of the evening," Washu whispered, seeing Ryoko was already half asleep. The beast nodded his head curtly and made his way to find the King to deliver the message.
***
Putiko took his time in searching for the King and found him in the dinning hall, enjoying the meal prepared for him and the Queen.
"Putiko! Where is Washu?" Mikollious asked in a jolly voice.
She's with Ryoko. She told me to tell you that she most likely will be with her the rest of the evening Putiko said as he sat at the King's side.
"How is the little girl? Well, I hope," he said.
She's sleeping right now, but I think it will be little while before she's up and about Putiko said.
"Well, let's hope Washu has something up her sleeve to comfort her," Paradise said.
She's really sick. More so than usual Putiko said in a grave tone.
"I have faith in Washu's abilities. I think you should too, Putiko," Mikollious said as he waved his fork at the beast.
I do, majesty. I do he said before leaving the room.
***
Washu lifted her head slowly as she heard someone moving around the room. She blinked the sleep from her eyes and looked around to see the nurse back in the room.
"I'm sorry, my lady. I didn't mean to wake you," she said with a quick bow.
"It's okay," Washu said in a tired voice before looking over at Ryoko who had her back to her. Washu then got up and stretched widely before rounding the bed and kneeling at it's side to gaze at her daughter's face. She was so peaceful when she was sleeping and Washu could feel the guilt for what she had done to her in her first few weeks of life. She let out a sigh and rested her head on her hands as she stared at Ryoko. The little girl wrinkled her brow in her sleep and twitched before falling still again. Washu smiled at her while reaching out and gently moving the hair from her face in a thoughtful sweep.
"I did you wrong, my daughter. I am forever going to be making up for it. I will never let any harm come to you. I promise," Washu whispered.
Washu? she heard Putiko growl as he entered the room. Washu then stood up and motioned him out of the room before closing the door and leaving Ryoko in the care of the nurse.
"What is it, Putiko?" she asked.
How is she? he asked. Washu smiled and chuckled at him before kneeling down to his height.
"She's fine. This isn't the first time this has happened. You know that," she said.
I know, but this time it seemed different he said in an unsure tone.
"How so?" Washu asked as she tilted her head curiously.
How many times does she usually get sick? he asked suddenly.
"Usually only once. Why? What happened?" Washu asked, now worried about what her servant was going to tell her.
Than she's already gotten sick at least three times. She got sick as we left the throne room and once when we entered her room. Then she got sick again as you were sitting on the sill with her he said with a worried tint to his growls. Washu took a deep breath and let it out slowly as she let her eyes roam around, thinking about this.
"Her block is failing. I need to find a new approach to this," she muttered to herself.
Why won't you let her experience that side of herself? Putiko asked.
"Because I don't want her to think she's a demon. I mean no offence, Putiko, but many believe you to be demons and I don't want her to be viewed like that," Washu said.
It's okay, mistress. I understand he said. Washu then picked her head up as the door opened to show the nurse beckoning her into the room.
"She's awake and is calling for you," she said, forcing Washu to her feet. She went to Ryoko's side and rubbed her back as the uncomfortable look still lived on the little girl's features.
"How do you feel?" she asked softly.
"I hurt, mommy," she whined. Her face then twisted into a look of pain and Washu gently picked her up and walked around the room as Ryoko started to cry. She cooed to her and rubbed her back comfortingly before giving Putiko and the nurse a confused, yet worried look. She was never this sick for this long. She would get sick once, fall asleep, and wake up with thoughts of play on her mind. She never woke up with the sickness still with her.
"Children get sick all the time, my lady. It's not uncommon," the nurse reassured her.
"I know, but I still worry about her," Washu said as she continued to try and comfort the crying child. Putiko sat near the door and watched as Washu worked her motherly magic and smiled as Ryoko's tears came to an end. Washu then sat on the bed with Ryoko in her lap and tilted her head to see the tear-streaked face of her daughter.
"Still feel sick, huh?" she asked gently. Ryoko let out a burp and nodded her head slowly. Washu then looked up at the nurse and without a word, she brought the bowl over again. Once again, she was just in time to save Washu's dress and brought a cloth to the redhead to clean Ryoko's face up.
"Why are you so sick all of a sudden?" Washu asked, more to herself than Ryoko. Ryoko merely shrugged her shoulders and let out another burp. Washu shook her head and thought for a moment before opening her subspace portal and reaching in. She rummaged around for a moment before pulling out a primitive sippy-cup with a deep purple liquid in it.
"Drink this. It will make you feel better," she said as she handed the cup to Ryoko who took it without question. Yet she hesitated in drinking the liquid and merely wrinkled her nose at it.
"You'll like it. Taste like grape," Washu said in a sweet sounding voice to reassure the child. Ryoko let out a sigh and did as she was told before resting her head against Washu's chest again as her mother stroked her hair. She finished the contents of the cup and dropped it to the floor, knowing the nurse would take care of it. Washu chuckled at her and shook her head as she hugged Ryoko close.
"You know, you didn't have to drop it. I would've taken it for you. Now your nurse has to do that much more work," Washu chuckled. Ryoko let out a sigh and wrapped her arms around Washu's neck tiredly before letting out a whine. Washu let out a sigh and put her back on the bed to sleep the rest of the day away and once again left her in the care of the nurse as she left the room with Putiko.
What did you give her? he asked as they walked towards the throne room.
"Just a little something I created in case this ever happened. She should start feeling better when she wakes up," Washu said. They entered the throne room to find Mikollious at his throne, pondering the new law he had concocted.
"Mikollious, I want to let you know that I'm going to stay with Ryoko for the rest of the evening and possible all day tomorrow, so I will be unable to answer your calls," Washu said.
"Is everything okay?" he asked as she slowly started to rise from his seat.
"Yes, but she's very sick," Washu said.
"I trust you'll make the right decisions, Washu. Thank you for telling me," he said as he slightly bowed his head to her in thanks. Washu smiled at him and curtsied before leaving the room to spend the next few days by her daughter's side.
***
Putiko stayed near Ryoko's door the rest of the evening and found that the floor was as comfortable a bed he was going to get. He would've ventured up to Washu's quarters to sleep in his own bed, but he didn't want to leave the area in case he was needed. Ever since Washu had taken Ryoko in, he has been treated as though he were part of this small family. Washu took pride in his services and treated him as a friend, not a servant. He loved them both and would gladly risk his life to protect them if need be. He then lifted his head as he heard someone approaching the room. He rose to his feet and stood guard as his senses picked up who it was.
"How is she?" Paradise asked as she came into view.
I guess she's still sleeping. They haven't come out for a while Putiko said as he sat down. The Queen nodded her head and let out a sigh as she stood in front of the door.
"May I go in?" she asked as she smiled down at the Clav.
I would advise against it, but if you feel you must, I am in no position to stop you, my Queen he said as he bowed his head to her.
"Thank you, Putiko. I'll be quick," she said as she slowly opened the door. He followed her in and found both Ryoko and Washu still asleep on the bed. Washu was lying on her back with Ryoko cuddled up at her side, sucking her thumb while she slept. Paradise smiled at the touching scene and looked down at Putiko, who had a concerned look on his face.
"They look fine to me," she whispered, not wanting to wake them.
Looks can be deceiving, my Queen Putiko warned, never taking his eyes off his mistress and her child. Paradise stared at him for a moment before looking back at the two. Ryoko let out a whine and wrinkled her brow before opening her eyes slowly. Paradise sat on the edge of the bed and gently rubbed Ryoko's back as she sat up before the little girl let out a burp.
"Are you still feeling sick, child?" she asked softly, seeing Washu was still asleep. Ryoko just let out another whine before another burp escaped her lips. Paradise wrinkled her brow and watched as Putiko swiftly brought the little girl a bowl. She sat there, staring at it for a long time before looking behind her to find her mother still asleep.
"Let her sleep, child," Paradise said as she saw Ryoko's intentions to wake her up.
"But I don't feel good," she whimpered before turning back to the bowl with another burp. Paradise then jumped up with a start as the little girl got sick once again. She shook her head and snorted with a smile as she saw the girl's ability to know it was best if she got it in the bowl instead of on the floor or the bed. She then thought it best that Washu woke up, seeing Ryoko was starting to cry.
"Washu, wake up," Paradise said as she gently shook the scientist's shoulder. Washu's eyes popped open and she looked around the room, trying to make sense of where she was and what was going on before sitting up and stretching her arms widely. She looked over and saw Ryoko getting sick again and quickly shuffled over to her.
"Why are you so sick?" she asked for a second time as she rubbed the girl's back in comforting movements. Ryoko continued to cry, taking no comfort in her mother's attempts. Washu then lifted her into her lap and hugged her while giving Paradise a concerned look.
"She usually doesn't get this sick. What's happening?" she asked.
"I have no idea. The juice I had given her was to strengthen this block, but it doesn't seem to be working," Washu said as she pondered a way to remedy that. There was only one thing she could think of, but that would have to wait until Ryoko felt better. She wasn't about to conduct an operation while she felt like this. She then looked over at Putiko and let out a sigh. She had no choice.
"Putiko, accompany the queen to her quarters and meet me in the lab," Washu said as she got off the bed with Ryoko, heading for the depths of her lab to try and fix this.
***
Putiko walked in silence with the queen until they reached her door, where she finally turned and smiled down at him.
"You're a very loyal servant to Washu and Ryoko. I admire your ability to comfort both of them," Paradise said before kissing him on the forehead.
Thank you, my Queen he said with a slight bow before taking off towards the lab as had been requested of him. He swiftly made his way down the stair case and came to a screeching stop at the bottom.
Mistress? Are you here? he called, making sure she was present before venturing any further.
"I am. I'm over here, Putiko," she called. He followed her voice and came to find her standing next to a table with Ryoko sleeping on top.
What are you planning? he asked as he reached her side. Ryoko was lying on her back with various cables attached to her chest and temples while Washu stared at her, obviously deep in thought.
"Do you think this is a good idea?" she asked in a soft voice.
I can't answer that, seeing I don't know what you're intending, mistress he said as he stared at the child along with Washu.
"I guess that's as good an answer as any," Washu chuckled before typing at her laptop for a moment. She then looked back at Putiko and let out a sigh.
"I ask that you stay near the door. Do not let anyone enter until I tell you otherwise. Not even the King," she commanded before smiling at how swiftly Putiko was to obey her command. She then let out a slow sigh before starting the pain-staking work of fixing this block issue.
***
Putiko stood by the door and couldn't help but yawn as the hours went by. He looked over his shoulder, hoping to see Washu walk around the corner and allow him to retire for the night, but saw nothing and let out a sigh. His eyes were heavy and his thoughts wandered as he stood guard. It was late, so no one would most likely be visiting the lab, but he had his orders, and he wasn't going to disobey them.
"Tired?" he heard Washu say. He spun around to see her smiling at him as she leaned against one of her machines.
Extremely he said with a yawn.
"Then go to bed," she said.
Is she okay? he asked as he rose to his feet.
"She's fine. I believe this will cure any sickness she has in the future," Washu said with her own yawn.
You're tired too, mistress. Let me accompany you to your quarters he said as he made room for her.
"I'm not leaving Ryoko down here. If that's what you thought, than you're out of your mind, Putiko," Washu chuckled.
Bring her along Putiko said. Washu stared at him for a moment before letting out a long sigh and turning to retrieve the little girl. She came back with Ryoko in her arms and a large white bandage on her head.
Are you sure she's okay? he asked with a hint of concern.
"She's fine, Putiko. Lead the way," Washu said with a yawn as they started their long journey.
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