Chapter 17--Feelings Revealed
As the time drew near to the dark force's arrival, no more demons had appeared. Though the attacks had stopped, the kenshin was on constant guard. Ever watchful and ever aware of what little time was left, Ryan pressed forward with the ladies training. His biggest concern was for the two princesses of Jurai. With the kenshin's help, Ayeka and Sasami had mastered the ability to generate Juraian power at will.
But will it be enough to keep them safe? Ryan thought as he watched the two princesses pit their energy attacks against the large metallic targets the kenshin had placed about 100 yards above the large grassy field not far from the Masaki house.
He allowed himself a small smile as each energy orb hit their mark, shattering the moving targets into microscopic bits, the debris showering downward to blanket the ground with finely ground metallic dust.
"We did it Ayeka!" Sasami cried joyously, running past Ayeka to the kenshin. "Did you see that Ryan! Ayeka and I got them all!"
The kenshin patted Sasami gently on the head. "You did well princess Sasami. The demons will be no match for either of you." He said removing his hand and smiling at both ladies.
"You really think so kenshin?" Ayeka asked, relaxing her stance. She walked slowly forward, joining Sasami in front of the kenshin.
Ryan nodded. "Your training is complete. There is nothing more I can offer you. All I can say is never forget what I taught you, be brave and ready to fight when need be." He answered with a smile which faded when he saw Ayeka staring off towards the woods, her eyes narrowed. Ryan followed her gaze to find Ryoko leaning against a tree, her eyes full of mirth.
Ryan watched Ryoko for a few more seconds before turning back toward Ayeka and Sasami. "If you will excuse me?" Ryan asked with a small bow.
"Of course." Ayeka replied clasping her sister's hand. "Come along Sasami."
Sasami looked disappointed. "But I want to see what Ryoko and Ryan are going to do."
Ayeka frowned. "That's is not your concern Sasami. Let's go, we have things to do." She said softly, pulling Sasami away.
Ryan watched them head toward the woods on the other side of the field. A few seconds later he focused his attention on Ryoko and began to walk towards her.
"They've improved greatly." Ryoko commented as she watched the kenshin approach.
"They have indeed." Ryan said, stopping about a foot from Ryoko.
"Will it be enough?" She asked, echoing Ryan's earlier thought.
Ryan turned back toward the field, following the princesses movement until they had disappeared into the woods. "They will hold their own when the time comes." He answered. "You on the other hand." He added focusing his twinkling eyes back upon Ryoko, flashing her a mischievous smile.
Ryoko slapped him on the shoulder. "Jerk." She said in mock anger.
"ow." Ryan cried, rubbing his shoulder, a playful smile etched upon his face.
"Want to put your money where your mouth is." She challenged.
Ryan's grinned. "What do you have in mind?"
Ryoko crooked her finger. "Follow me." She answered, walking slowly forward into the woods.
Ryan shook his head. He knew where she was leading to. The same place they met daily to spar. Yosho's dojo.
As they walked forward, Ryan thought about Ryoko. All the months he had spent with her had deepened the feelings he had for the space pirate.
He loved her with a passion that both excited and frightened him. He never could bring himself to tell her due to his lingering doubt. Does she love me for me and me alone?
Of course he knew his question was ridiculous but still it lingered. He could easily find out if he probed her mind, but Ryan respected Ryoko's privacy and would not abandon his morals just because he was unsure of her heart. Their relationship therefore remained one of friendship, nothing more.
Ah well. At least on the practice grounds I can push my emotions aside, focusing only on the moment. He thought as they entered the training room. The kenshin loved a challenge and Ryoko was good at providing it.
He loved pushing her to the limit of her abilities, it always made the fight more exciting. Ryan noticed that Ryoko too, seem to revel in the close contact she and the kenshin engaged in, even if it was just sparring. The two combatants split up on different sides and began to stretch.
Ryoko watched the kenshin out of the corner of her eye, certain that he was unaware of what she was doing. She admired the way his body moved.
Graceful and fluid, every move precise. She would be content to spar with him all day. Just to be close to him made her feel like she could do anything not to mention the physical contact that ensued.
All the months they had spent together, Ryoko grew to know and love the man in front of her. Unlike Ryan she had no doubts about her intentions towards him. However, like him, she was unable to express it for fear of rejection.
She had no idea whether he felt anything but respect for her. The suspense was killing her. She had to know. Enough was enough. An idea began to form in Ryoko's head. One that she knew would get to the truth. Did he care for her as just a friend or something more?
A few seconds later the kenshin finished his warm up. "Ready?" He called out from the other side of the room.
Ryoko nodded. "Ready." She replied, adopting a defense stance.
And with that the training began. For over an hour they practiced, each of them exhausted but neither willing to give in. Ryan had tested Ryoko's reflexes relentlessly. Each time she managed to block his attacks.
"Well, Ryoko I must say your defensive skills continue to impress me." He complimented the woman before him as he circled the blue matted floor, never taking his eyes off her.
Ryoko smiled devilishly. Here goes nothing. "Then I guess it's time I show you some offensive skill." She replied quickly, disappearing from view.
Ryan smiled, closed his eyes, and waited. He ducked quickly as Ryoko's rematerialized foot whizzed above his head. The kenshin rolled away from the attack and dematerialized. Ryoko narrowed her eyes. In an instant, Ryan appeared behind the space pirate and gripped her tightly across the arms.
Ryoko struggled mightily and managed to slip an arm out of the grip. She attempted to flip the kenshin over but was only partially successful. Ryan fell sideways, but still had a hold on Ryoko. He landed on his back with Ryoko cradled in his arms.
"Well done miss Ryoko." Ryan commented, beaming up at the space pirate. "You almost had me there."
Ryoko gazed down at the kenshin, her features softening.
Ryan's smile faded. "Are you all right miss Ryoko?" He asked in concern, hoping he hadn't hurt her.
When she didn't reply, Ryan slowly released his grip, suddenly aware of how tight he had been holding her to him. Time seem to stand still as the two gazed endlessly into each others eyes.
A sudden urge came over the kenshin. He brought his left hand up to Ryoko's face and pushed a strand of hair away from her intense eyes, gently brushing her cheek with the back of his fingers. Ryoko didn't even blink.
Ryan's eyes widened in shock at what he had done. He began to pull his hand away, but Ryoko stopped him, clasping his hand gently with her own. She opened his hand and placed it against her cheek.
In that instant Ryan saw what Ryoko was thinking. His heart skipped a beat. Could it be true? He thought excitedly. Does she really feel the way I do?
His doubts were soon laid to rest as Ryoko leaned forward, lips slightly parted. She got within a hair's breath of kissing the kenshin when the sound of someone coughing nearby broke the spell.
Ryoko and Ryan turned towards the sound and when they saw who it was, jumped up quickly and composed themselves.
"Is this some kind of new technique?" Yosho asked, his eyebrows quirked, an amused expression on his face.
Ryan rubbed his neck. "Well uh...Lord Yosho...Uh.." Ryan started but couldn't finish, instead smiling sheepishly and shrugging his shoulders.
Yosho looked towards Ryoko. The space pirate had crossed her arms, her face a picture of annoyance. Yosho chuckled slightly then his features became somber. "I believe Princess Sasami was looking for you kenshin. Something about helping her with dinner." He said in a serious tone.
Ryan straightened his frame. "I will go to her immediately Lord Yosho." He replied, bowing quickly before turning towards Ryoko. "We'll continue this um.. later." He said with a smile then dematerialized from the room.
"Thanks a lot." Ryoko growled in annoyance at Yosho. I was so close too. she thought angrily.
Yosho studied Ryoko, his features still amused. "Not quite like Tenchi is he?" He said neutrally, curious as to how she would react.
Ryoko narrowed her eyes. "What do you mean?" She asked, her voice suspicious.
Yosho smiled. "I think you know what I mean." He replied then added. "Be careful with him Ryoko, this sort of game your playing is new to him."
"I'm not playing games old man." Ryoko replied testily, clenching her jaw in anger.
Yosho smile faded. "I hope not miss Ryoko. For his sake and yours as well." He replied, turning around. "I'll just let myself out." He added, leaving as quietly as he had entered.
Ryoko grimaced. What the hell did he mean by all that? She thought, pacing back and forth like a caged tiger. I'm not playing games. I do love him. Tonight I was going to tellhim too, but Yosho just had to interrupt me. Why? She sighed inwardly. Maybe Yosho thinks I'm doing this to get back at Tenchi for ignoring me all these years, but that's not true. I still do love Tenchi but not like I do Ryan. I have to tell him somehow, perhaps after dinner tonight. She added thoughtfully and with a determined glare, the space pirate left the dojo and headed home.
Chapter 18--Feelings Revealed
Supper proved uneventful. The kenshin and Ryoko shared several looks with each other but added little to the conversation. Ryan helped Sasami clean up then went upstairs to change his clothes. He rematerialized in the kitchen. Sasami was alone putting away the last of the dishes. She was having trouble placing the plates on the middle shelf in the upper cupboard so Ryan finished up for her.
"Thank you kenshin." Sasami said gratefully. "Those shelves are awfully high." She added rubbing her shoulders.
Ryan smiled. "It was no trouble Princess." He replied, grabbing a glass from the cupboard. He turned on the faucet and filled his glass with water.
Sasami studied him. "You and Ryoko going to look at the stars tonight, Ryan?" She asked.
Ryan nodded, taking a large sip of water before sitting the glass on the counter.
"You like her don't you?" She said with a smile.
Ryan eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Am I that obvious?" He asked the thirteen year old before him.
Sasami nodded then giggled. "You better hurry. Ryoko hates to be kept waiting."
Ryan smiled, set the glass in the sink, gave a quick nod to Sasami, then teleported away.
"Good luck kenshin." Sasami whispered, staring at the empty space Ryan was seconds before.
Ryan materialized below an impressive oak tree. He craned his neck back but saw nothing. Guess I got here first. The kenshin thought, floating up to the sturdy limb that hung some distance out from the oak's massive trunk. No sooner did he sit down when he heard Ryoko's voice behind him.
"Mind if I join you?" She asked softly.
"Be my guest." Ryan replied, trying hard not to stare at her as she sat down beside him.
"Beautiful night." Ryoko began looking skyward, swinging her long legs slowly back and forth.
"Yes it is." Ryan replied. Almost as beautiful as you. He commented silently, looking downward as he matched Ryoko's body movement.
Ryoko turned to the right and focused all her attention on the man sitting beside her. "Ryan." She said softly.
"Um.." He murmured, still staring down at the ground.
"There's something I have to ask you."
"I'm listening." Ryan replied, not meeting her eyes.
"Have you ever... loved somebody before?" She asked.
Ryan turned to her. "You mean have I ever had a girlfriend before?" He asked, a small smile forming on his lips.
Ryoko met his questioning eyes. "Have you?"
Ryan's smile faded. "I did once." He replied.
"Would you care to elaborate on that?" She asked.
"Not really." He said turning away from her. "It's rather painful."
Ah, so he's been burned before. Ryoko thought. "What happened?" She asked, unable to keep the curiosity out of her voice.
Ryan sighed. He replied after an intense moment of silence he spoke. "She died."
I was wrong. Ryoko thought in surprise. "I'm sorry." She said sorrowfully. "It must have been horrible for you." She added then frowned when she saw an amused expression on the kenshin's handsome face.
"Why are you looking at me that way?"
Ryan started to laugh. "Just kidding." He said.
Ryoko narrowed her eyes and scowled. "That was not funny." She said, crossing her arms.
"I guess not." He said lamely, turning away from her. "Truthfully?" He said with a sigh.
Ryoko stiffened. "The truth. Yes." She said.
"No." He replied earnestly. "I've never had a girlfriend."
Ryoko uncrossed her arms. "Never." She said in disbelief.
Ryan shook his head. "Afraid so." He answered. "Never stuck around in one place long enough to get to know anybody." He said with finality.
"Oh." Was all Ryoko could manage to get out.
"Why do you ask?" Ryan turned to face her, his eyes locked with the space pirate's.
Here goes nothing. Ryoko thought then began. "About today..." She started but Ryan interrupted her.
"What about today?" He interjected, concern etched upon his face.
"What happened between us..." She added, pausing for emphasis before plunging in again. "Wasn't a mistake."
Ryan features softened.
"What you sensed today, and I know you did, was real." She said sliding closer to the kenshin. She noticed he didn't move away, but instead closed the gap between them.
"What I'm trying to say is that I.. have feelings for you."
"Feelings." Ryan said with smirk. "What kind of feelings?"
Ryoko frowned. "Dammit Ryan your not making this easy for me." She said in frustration.
Ryan laughed lightly. He took Ryoko's right hand and squeezed it encouragingly. "I know what you feel Ryoko." He said softly.
"You do?" She replied.
Ryan nodded. "I do." He said huskily, and finding the courage to express his feelings, leaned forward to kiss a very surprised but receptive Ryoko.
The space pirate returned the kiss passionately, wrapping her arms around the kenshin.
The couple began to float upwards, twirling and spinning slowly until they were several feet above the treetops. After what seemed an eternity, they twirled slowly back down to the tree limb. Ryoko broke away first, out of breath. She stared at Ryan in amazement. She had never experienced a kiss like that before. Apparently, neither had Ryan.
"I'm sorry..." He stammered, releasing his grip on Ryoko. "I don't know what came over me."
Ryoko laughed. "What are you apologizing for?" She said incredulously, still clinging to Ryan.
"I shouldn't have assumed..."
Ryoko shook her head and removed her arms from around the young man. "Trust me kenshin, if I didn't want you to kiss me, I would have stopped you from doing so. I wanted that as much as you did." She replied, smiling.
Ryan returned her smile then turned toward the stars. Ryoko wrapped her arm around the kenshin and rested her head upon his shoulder. Ryan responded by wrapping his left arm around the space pirate's waist and tilting his head until it touched Ryoko's.
"And just so you know, it's not that you look like Tenchi." She said.
Ryan remained silent.
"Okay so it's not just the fact you look like Tenchi." She conceded.
"I know." He said in a loving tone.
Ryoko smiled the focused her attentions on the twinkling dots high in the darkened sky, happier than she had ever been before.
Chapter 19--It's Happened Again
Back at the Masaki house a meeting was being held inside Washu's lab. Yosho, Ayeka, Sasami, Azaka, and Kamedaki had gathered around the scientist's energy detector. Washu stood in the center of the group, her eyes focused on the detector's screen before her.
"The time is nearly upon us." Washu said pointing to a large dot that glowed red on the machine's screen. The scientist typed in a few instructions on the machine's keyboard.
"The mass has entered our solar system and will be arriving at the end of the week." She added, pausing to look around. "Where are Ryan and Ryoko?" She asked, scanning the small group.
After a few long seconds of silence, Sasami answered. " Uh, he and Ryoko are watching the stars."
"What!" Ayeka exclaimed in agitation. "There's no time for that right now. We've got a battle to prepare for and he's out with that, that woman."
Washu studied the princess. "Well, Tenchi isn't here either princess." she pointed out, a small smile upon her face.
"I know." Ayeka pouted, calming down. " I wonder what he's doing now?" She murmured, a wistful look upon her pretty face.
Just then a loud shrill erupted from the machine.
"What the.." Washu exclaimed looking down at the screen.
"What is it?" Yosho asked, looking from the screen to Washu.
A second red dot appeared, far away from the first one.
Washu's fingers flew across the keyboard. ."There's been another upsurge in power. This new source has landed on earth. But where?" Washu explained, her face a mask of concentration as she searched for the coordinates.
"Oh no." Washu murmured, retracting her hands from the keyboard.
"What? What is it? Tell me!" Ayeka shouted, her voice full of fear.
Slowly, Washu raised her head, her features pale. "The energy source appears to have arrived in Tokyo."
"Oh my God! Tenchi!" Ayeka screamed, running out the door. The rest of the group following close behind.
At about the same time, Tenchi walked wearily down a side street close to his apartment complex, making his way home after a long day of final exams. "Whew! I'm beat." He sighed as he walked along the well-lit sidewalk. Suddenly a strong gust of wind swept through, spraying dirt into the crown prince's face.
Tenchi continued forward, wiping the dirt off and away from his face. A loud clap of thunder roared from above, stopping Tenchi cold in his tracks. Sensing a evil presence nearby, he threw his back against the brick wall of a four story building and creeped forward.
The crown prince pulled out his saber, the sword given to him by his grandfather Yosho, and engaged the blade. A soft blue light sprang from his intricately carved hilt, his Juraian power feeding the blade. "Come out Coward!" Tenchi yelled.
Suddenly a bright flash erupted before him. Tenchi gasped in surprise and within seconds found himself fighting for his life against a large, man- shaped demon.
Many miles away, Ryan suddenly dematerialized away from the tree and reappeared on the ground. Ryoko frowned but followed. Ryan was standing still, his eyes closed in concentration.
"What is it?" Ryoko asked standing beside him. She knew something was wrong but what she had no idea.
So another has arrived. Those bastards don't give up do they. The kenshin thought angrily as he sensed the demon's unnatural presence. "Tenchi is in trouble. I must help him." Ryan whispered, his face a mask of concentration.
"How can you help him when you're so far away?" Ryoko asked.
Suddenly, Ryan fell to his knees clutching his left side.
"Ryan what's the matter!" Ryoko cried out in alarm., kneeling by the kenshin's side, wondering what was going on.
At about the same time, Tenchi was giving his all and managed to strike a blow to the creature. The villain responded quickly, thrusting it's sword through Tenchi's left side.
For a second Tenchi felt an intense pain that just as suddenly went away. The demon looked on, puzzled. Tenchi quickly backed off the sword and inflicted a devastating blow that destroyed the creature in a blast of energy.
The force sent Tenchi spiraling backward. For a few minutes Tenchi lay still on the ground, exhausted from the battle. So that's a demon. He thought as he caught his breath. Slowly, Tenchi stood up. Gingerly, he poked his left side, wondering why he was uninjured.
Did..Did Ryan do this? He thought. If that's so than that means.. Without further thought, Tenchi sprang forward, racing home to call his grandfather.
Chapter 20--Tenchi's My Friend Too
"Ryan?" Ryoko whispered apprehensively. Ryan was on his back, clutching his side. Ryoko gently pried his hands away. She saw the blood spreading along his once white sweater. "What happened to you?" She asked, the fear evident in her voice.
"Tookit…from…Tenchi" Ryan said between labored breaths. "He's..safe..they tried to get him.. tonight..they..failed" he said laughing weakly. "But you could die." Ryoko said in shock, biting her lip. Ryan shook his head. "Tenchi's…my friend too..had to…help him. Said…I'd die before..I'd let them…take him…" "Shh.." Ryoko said putting her right index finger on his pale lips while trying to calm the racing of her heart. "We need to get you home. Can you stand?" "If…you help..me.." With some effort, Ryoko managed to stand Ryan upright. She placed his left arm around her shoulders and her right arm around his waist. Slowly they began to make their way home. "Be prepared.." Ryan began. "They'll come soon..I feel a dark presence…must be ready." "You need rest." Ryoko said her breathing now labored, her heart fearful for the kenshin's safety. Please don't let him die. She thought pleadingly, as she looked up at the night sky. Ryan's frowned. "We need help." He rasped, concentrating. Lord Yosho, he thought telepathically, come quickly. We need your help. Help was closer than the kenshin thought. Outside, everyone had been searching for Ryan and Ryoko. Fearing for Tenchi's safety, the Masaki household had gone outside to seek the only one who could help them. Upon hearing Ryan's thoughts, Yosho stopped walking, turning abruptly around. "Azaka, Kamedaki follow me. Quickly!" He said heading deeper into the forest. The Juraian knights quickly followed. The two princess close behind. Within a minute, they found Ryoko and an unconscious Ryan slumped on the ground. "What has happened here?" Yosho asked as he watched Azaka and Kamedaki gently lift Ryan up. Ryoko only shook her head in response. Yosho frowned but said nothing. With a tilt of his head, he signaled everyone to follow him back home. Once inside the house, the two knights gingerly removed Ryan's sweater before laying him on the couch. "My God!" Azaka said in shock, staring down at the half dressed kenshin "That wound, it came from a sword." "But the sweater is intact, no damage at all." Kamedaki exclaimed as he inspected the sweater. "What happened to him?" Ayeka asked in shock. Everyone turned to Ryoko. Ryoko crossed her arms and said, "Don't look at me like that. I didn't do it. One minute we were looking at the stars. The next minute he was on the ground saying Tenchi was in trouble." She answered defensively. "What!" Ayeka yelled grabbing Ryoko roughly by the shoulders. " So Tenchi was in trouble! I knew it! What did the kenshin say? What happened to Tenchi? Tell me!" "Calm down princess." Ryoko said, forcing herself to gently remove Ayeka's hands. "Whatever happened to Tenchi, Ryan took it away. Tenchi is fine." "I'm sorry." Ayeka said, backing away. She looked down at Ryan in shame. "Of course he helped him. He swore that he would do so, and he did." She whispered, sitting down. "Azaka, some hot water please. Kamedaki, towels and bandages as well." Yosho ordered, rolling up his sleeves. Ryoko stared at Ryan, her eyes full of pain.. "Will he be all right?" She asked. "Yes." Yosho answered, placing a towel Kamedaki gave him under the traveler's back. He began cleansing the wound, the once clear water turning redder with each ring of the cloth. Yosho inspected the wound. It was three inches long and half an inch wide. "It's stopped bleeding and it's begun to close." He commented applying an antibiotic and bandaging the wound. He then stood up. "All he needs is rest." He said motioning to Azaka and Kamedaki. The two knights picked up the prone warrior and gently took him upstairs. He then turned to Ryoko. "Now, tell me what the kenshin said."
As the time drew near to the dark force's arrival, no more demons had appeared. Though the attacks had stopped, the kenshin was on constant guard. Ever watchful and ever aware of what little time was left, Ryan pressed forward with the ladies training. His biggest concern was for the two princesses of Jurai. With the kenshin's help, Ayeka and Sasami had mastered the ability to generate Juraian power at will.
But will it be enough to keep them safe? Ryan thought as he watched the two princesses pit their energy attacks against the large metallic targets the kenshin had placed about 100 yards above the large grassy field not far from the Masaki house.
He allowed himself a small smile as each energy orb hit their mark, shattering the moving targets into microscopic bits, the debris showering downward to blanket the ground with finely ground metallic dust.
"We did it Ayeka!" Sasami cried joyously, running past Ayeka to the kenshin. "Did you see that Ryan! Ayeka and I got them all!"
The kenshin patted Sasami gently on the head. "You did well princess Sasami. The demons will be no match for either of you." He said removing his hand and smiling at both ladies.
"You really think so kenshin?" Ayeka asked, relaxing her stance. She walked slowly forward, joining Sasami in front of the kenshin.
Ryan nodded. "Your training is complete. There is nothing more I can offer you. All I can say is never forget what I taught you, be brave and ready to fight when need be." He answered with a smile which faded when he saw Ayeka staring off towards the woods, her eyes narrowed. Ryan followed her gaze to find Ryoko leaning against a tree, her eyes full of mirth.
Ryan watched Ryoko for a few more seconds before turning back toward Ayeka and Sasami. "If you will excuse me?" Ryan asked with a small bow.
"Of course." Ayeka replied clasping her sister's hand. "Come along Sasami."
Sasami looked disappointed. "But I want to see what Ryoko and Ryan are going to do."
Ayeka frowned. "That's is not your concern Sasami. Let's go, we have things to do." She said softly, pulling Sasami away.
Ryan watched them head toward the woods on the other side of the field. A few seconds later he focused his attention on Ryoko and began to walk towards her.
"They've improved greatly." Ryoko commented as she watched the kenshin approach.
"They have indeed." Ryan said, stopping about a foot from Ryoko.
"Will it be enough?" She asked, echoing Ryan's earlier thought.
Ryan turned back toward the field, following the princesses movement until they had disappeared into the woods. "They will hold their own when the time comes." He answered. "You on the other hand." He added focusing his twinkling eyes back upon Ryoko, flashing her a mischievous smile.
Ryoko slapped him on the shoulder. "Jerk." She said in mock anger.
"ow." Ryan cried, rubbing his shoulder, a playful smile etched upon his face.
"Want to put your money where your mouth is." She challenged.
Ryan's grinned. "What do you have in mind?"
Ryoko crooked her finger. "Follow me." She answered, walking slowly forward into the woods.
Ryan shook his head. He knew where she was leading to. The same place they met daily to spar. Yosho's dojo.
As they walked forward, Ryan thought about Ryoko. All the months he had spent with her had deepened the feelings he had for the space pirate.
He loved her with a passion that both excited and frightened him. He never could bring himself to tell her due to his lingering doubt. Does she love me for me and me alone?
Of course he knew his question was ridiculous but still it lingered. He could easily find out if he probed her mind, but Ryan respected Ryoko's privacy and would not abandon his morals just because he was unsure of her heart. Their relationship therefore remained one of friendship, nothing more.
Ah well. At least on the practice grounds I can push my emotions aside, focusing only on the moment. He thought as they entered the training room. The kenshin loved a challenge and Ryoko was good at providing it.
He loved pushing her to the limit of her abilities, it always made the fight more exciting. Ryan noticed that Ryoko too, seem to revel in the close contact she and the kenshin engaged in, even if it was just sparring. The two combatants split up on different sides and began to stretch.
Ryoko watched the kenshin out of the corner of her eye, certain that he was unaware of what she was doing. She admired the way his body moved.
Graceful and fluid, every move precise. She would be content to spar with him all day. Just to be close to him made her feel like she could do anything not to mention the physical contact that ensued.
All the months they had spent together, Ryoko grew to know and love the man in front of her. Unlike Ryan she had no doubts about her intentions towards him. However, like him, she was unable to express it for fear of rejection.
She had no idea whether he felt anything but respect for her. The suspense was killing her. She had to know. Enough was enough. An idea began to form in Ryoko's head. One that she knew would get to the truth. Did he care for her as just a friend or something more?
A few seconds later the kenshin finished his warm up. "Ready?" He called out from the other side of the room.
Ryoko nodded. "Ready." She replied, adopting a defense stance.
And with that the training began. For over an hour they practiced, each of them exhausted but neither willing to give in. Ryan had tested Ryoko's reflexes relentlessly. Each time she managed to block his attacks.
"Well, Ryoko I must say your defensive skills continue to impress me." He complimented the woman before him as he circled the blue matted floor, never taking his eyes off her.
Ryoko smiled devilishly. Here goes nothing. "Then I guess it's time I show you some offensive skill." She replied quickly, disappearing from view.
Ryan smiled, closed his eyes, and waited. He ducked quickly as Ryoko's rematerialized foot whizzed above his head. The kenshin rolled away from the attack and dematerialized. Ryoko narrowed her eyes. In an instant, Ryan appeared behind the space pirate and gripped her tightly across the arms.
Ryoko struggled mightily and managed to slip an arm out of the grip. She attempted to flip the kenshin over but was only partially successful. Ryan fell sideways, but still had a hold on Ryoko. He landed on his back with Ryoko cradled in his arms.
"Well done miss Ryoko." Ryan commented, beaming up at the space pirate. "You almost had me there."
Ryoko gazed down at the kenshin, her features softening.
Ryan's smile faded. "Are you all right miss Ryoko?" He asked in concern, hoping he hadn't hurt her.
When she didn't reply, Ryan slowly released his grip, suddenly aware of how tight he had been holding her to him. Time seem to stand still as the two gazed endlessly into each others eyes.
A sudden urge came over the kenshin. He brought his left hand up to Ryoko's face and pushed a strand of hair away from her intense eyes, gently brushing her cheek with the back of his fingers. Ryoko didn't even blink.
Ryan's eyes widened in shock at what he had done. He began to pull his hand away, but Ryoko stopped him, clasping his hand gently with her own. She opened his hand and placed it against her cheek.
In that instant Ryan saw what Ryoko was thinking. His heart skipped a beat. Could it be true? He thought excitedly. Does she really feel the way I do?
His doubts were soon laid to rest as Ryoko leaned forward, lips slightly parted. She got within a hair's breath of kissing the kenshin when the sound of someone coughing nearby broke the spell.
Ryoko and Ryan turned towards the sound and when they saw who it was, jumped up quickly and composed themselves.
"Is this some kind of new technique?" Yosho asked, his eyebrows quirked, an amused expression on his face.
Ryan rubbed his neck. "Well uh...Lord Yosho...Uh.." Ryan started but couldn't finish, instead smiling sheepishly and shrugging his shoulders.
Yosho looked towards Ryoko. The space pirate had crossed her arms, her face a picture of annoyance. Yosho chuckled slightly then his features became somber. "I believe Princess Sasami was looking for you kenshin. Something about helping her with dinner." He said in a serious tone.
Ryan straightened his frame. "I will go to her immediately Lord Yosho." He replied, bowing quickly before turning towards Ryoko. "We'll continue this um.. later." He said with a smile then dematerialized from the room.
"Thanks a lot." Ryoko growled in annoyance at Yosho. I was so close too. she thought angrily.
Yosho studied Ryoko, his features still amused. "Not quite like Tenchi is he?" He said neutrally, curious as to how she would react.
Ryoko narrowed her eyes. "What do you mean?" She asked, her voice suspicious.
Yosho smiled. "I think you know what I mean." He replied then added. "Be careful with him Ryoko, this sort of game your playing is new to him."
"I'm not playing games old man." Ryoko replied testily, clenching her jaw in anger.
Yosho smile faded. "I hope not miss Ryoko. For his sake and yours as well." He replied, turning around. "I'll just let myself out." He added, leaving as quietly as he had entered.
Ryoko grimaced. What the hell did he mean by all that? She thought, pacing back and forth like a caged tiger. I'm not playing games. I do love him. Tonight I was going to tellhim too, but Yosho just had to interrupt me. Why? She sighed inwardly. Maybe Yosho thinks I'm doing this to get back at Tenchi for ignoring me all these years, but that's not true. I still do love Tenchi but not like I do Ryan. I have to tell him somehow, perhaps after dinner tonight. She added thoughtfully and with a determined glare, the space pirate left the dojo and headed home.
Chapter 18--Feelings Revealed
Supper proved uneventful. The kenshin and Ryoko shared several looks with each other but added little to the conversation. Ryan helped Sasami clean up then went upstairs to change his clothes. He rematerialized in the kitchen. Sasami was alone putting away the last of the dishes. She was having trouble placing the plates on the middle shelf in the upper cupboard so Ryan finished up for her.
"Thank you kenshin." Sasami said gratefully. "Those shelves are awfully high." She added rubbing her shoulders.
Ryan smiled. "It was no trouble Princess." He replied, grabbing a glass from the cupboard. He turned on the faucet and filled his glass with water.
Sasami studied him. "You and Ryoko going to look at the stars tonight, Ryan?" She asked.
Ryan nodded, taking a large sip of water before sitting the glass on the counter.
"You like her don't you?" She said with a smile.
Ryan eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Am I that obvious?" He asked the thirteen year old before him.
Sasami nodded then giggled. "You better hurry. Ryoko hates to be kept waiting."
Ryan smiled, set the glass in the sink, gave a quick nod to Sasami, then teleported away.
"Good luck kenshin." Sasami whispered, staring at the empty space Ryan was seconds before.
Ryan materialized below an impressive oak tree. He craned his neck back but saw nothing. Guess I got here first. The kenshin thought, floating up to the sturdy limb that hung some distance out from the oak's massive trunk. No sooner did he sit down when he heard Ryoko's voice behind him.
"Mind if I join you?" She asked softly.
"Be my guest." Ryan replied, trying hard not to stare at her as she sat down beside him.
"Beautiful night." Ryoko began looking skyward, swinging her long legs slowly back and forth.
"Yes it is." Ryan replied. Almost as beautiful as you. He commented silently, looking downward as he matched Ryoko's body movement.
Ryoko turned to the right and focused all her attention on the man sitting beside her. "Ryan." She said softly.
"Um.." He murmured, still staring down at the ground.
"There's something I have to ask you."
"I'm listening." Ryan replied, not meeting her eyes.
"Have you ever... loved somebody before?" She asked.
Ryan turned to her. "You mean have I ever had a girlfriend before?" He asked, a small smile forming on his lips.
Ryoko met his questioning eyes. "Have you?"
Ryan's smile faded. "I did once." He replied.
"Would you care to elaborate on that?" She asked.
"Not really." He said turning away from her. "It's rather painful."
Ah, so he's been burned before. Ryoko thought. "What happened?" She asked, unable to keep the curiosity out of her voice.
Ryan sighed. He replied after an intense moment of silence he spoke. "She died."
I was wrong. Ryoko thought in surprise. "I'm sorry." She said sorrowfully. "It must have been horrible for you." She added then frowned when she saw an amused expression on the kenshin's handsome face.
"Why are you looking at me that way?"
Ryan started to laugh. "Just kidding." He said.
Ryoko narrowed her eyes and scowled. "That was not funny." She said, crossing her arms.
"I guess not." He said lamely, turning away from her. "Truthfully?" He said with a sigh.
Ryoko stiffened. "The truth. Yes." She said.
"No." He replied earnestly. "I've never had a girlfriend."
Ryoko uncrossed her arms. "Never." She said in disbelief.
Ryan shook his head. "Afraid so." He answered. "Never stuck around in one place long enough to get to know anybody." He said with finality.
"Oh." Was all Ryoko could manage to get out.
"Why do you ask?" Ryan turned to face her, his eyes locked with the space pirate's.
Here goes nothing. Ryoko thought then began. "About today..." She started but Ryan interrupted her.
"What about today?" He interjected, concern etched upon his face.
"What happened between us..." She added, pausing for emphasis before plunging in again. "Wasn't a mistake."
Ryan features softened.
"What you sensed today, and I know you did, was real." She said sliding closer to the kenshin. She noticed he didn't move away, but instead closed the gap between them.
"What I'm trying to say is that I.. have feelings for you."
"Feelings." Ryan said with smirk. "What kind of feelings?"
Ryoko frowned. "Dammit Ryan your not making this easy for me." She said in frustration.
Ryan laughed lightly. He took Ryoko's right hand and squeezed it encouragingly. "I know what you feel Ryoko." He said softly.
"You do?" She replied.
Ryan nodded. "I do." He said huskily, and finding the courage to express his feelings, leaned forward to kiss a very surprised but receptive Ryoko.
The space pirate returned the kiss passionately, wrapping her arms around the kenshin.
The couple began to float upwards, twirling and spinning slowly until they were several feet above the treetops. After what seemed an eternity, they twirled slowly back down to the tree limb. Ryoko broke away first, out of breath. She stared at Ryan in amazement. She had never experienced a kiss like that before. Apparently, neither had Ryan.
"I'm sorry..." He stammered, releasing his grip on Ryoko. "I don't know what came over me."
Ryoko laughed. "What are you apologizing for?" She said incredulously, still clinging to Ryan.
"I shouldn't have assumed..."
Ryoko shook her head and removed her arms from around the young man. "Trust me kenshin, if I didn't want you to kiss me, I would have stopped you from doing so. I wanted that as much as you did." She replied, smiling.
Ryan returned her smile then turned toward the stars. Ryoko wrapped her arm around the kenshin and rested her head upon his shoulder. Ryan responded by wrapping his left arm around the space pirate's waist and tilting his head until it touched Ryoko's.
"And just so you know, it's not that you look like Tenchi." She said.
Ryan remained silent.
"Okay so it's not just the fact you look like Tenchi." She conceded.
"I know." He said in a loving tone.
Ryoko smiled the focused her attentions on the twinkling dots high in the darkened sky, happier than she had ever been before.
Chapter 19--It's Happened Again
Back at the Masaki house a meeting was being held inside Washu's lab. Yosho, Ayeka, Sasami, Azaka, and Kamedaki had gathered around the scientist's energy detector. Washu stood in the center of the group, her eyes focused on the detector's screen before her.
"The time is nearly upon us." Washu said pointing to a large dot that glowed red on the machine's screen. The scientist typed in a few instructions on the machine's keyboard.
"The mass has entered our solar system and will be arriving at the end of the week." She added, pausing to look around. "Where are Ryan and Ryoko?" She asked, scanning the small group.
After a few long seconds of silence, Sasami answered. " Uh, he and Ryoko are watching the stars."
"What!" Ayeka exclaimed in agitation. "There's no time for that right now. We've got a battle to prepare for and he's out with that, that woman."
Washu studied the princess. "Well, Tenchi isn't here either princess." she pointed out, a small smile upon her face.
"I know." Ayeka pouted, calming down. " I wonder what he's doing now?" She murmured, a wistful look upon her pretty face.
Just then a loud shrill erupted from the machine.
"What the.." Washu exclaimed looking down at the screen.
"What is it?" Yosho asked, looking from the screen to Washu.
A second red dot appeared, far away from the first one.
Washu's fingers flew across the keyboard. ."There's been another upsurge in power. This new source has landed on earth. But where?" Washu explained, her face a mask of concentration as she searched for the coordinates.
"Oh no." Washu murmured, retracting her hands from the keyboard.
"What? What is it? Tell me!" Ayeka shouted, her voice full of fear.
Slowly, Washu raised her head, her features pale. "The energy source appears to have arrived in Tokyo."
"Oh my God! Tenchi!" Ayeka screamed, running out the door. The rest of the group following close behind.
At about the same time, Tenchi walked wearily down a side street close to his apartment complex, making his way home after a long day of final exams. "Whew! I'm beat." He sighed as he walked along the well-lit sidewalk. Suddenly a strong gust of wind swept through, spraying dirt into the crown prince's face.
Tenchi continued forward, wiping the dirt off and away from his face. A loud clap of thunder roared from above, stopping Tenchi cold in his tracks. Sensing a evil presence nearby, he threw his back against the brick wall of a four story building and creeped forward.
The crown prince pulled out his saber, the sword given to him by his grandfather Yosho, and engaged the blade. A soft blue light sprang from his intricately carved hilt, his Juraian power feeding the blade. "Come out Coward!" Tenchi yelled.
Suddenly a bright flash erupted before him. Tenchi gasped in surprise and within seconds found himself fighting for his life against a large, man- shaped demon.
Many miles away, Ryan suddenly dematerialized away from the tree and reappeared on the ground. Ryoko frowned but followed. Ryan was standing still, his eyes closed in concentration.
"What is it?" Ryoko asked standing beside him. She knew something was wrong but what she had no idea.
So another has arrived. Those bastards don't give up do they. The kenshin thought angrily as he sensed the demon's unnatural presence. "Tenchi is in trouble. I must help him." Ryan whispered, his face a mask of concentration.
"How can you help him when you're so far away?" Ryoko asked.
Suddenly, Ryan fell to his knees clutching his left side.
"Ryan what's the matter!" Ryoko cried out in alarm., kneeling by the kenshin's side, wondering what was going on.
At about the same time, Tenchi was giving his all and managed to strike a blow to the creature. The villain responded quickly, thrusting it's sword through Tenchi's left side.
For a second Tenchi felt an intense pain that just as suddenly went away. The demon looked on, puzzled. Tenchi quickly backed off the sword and inflicted a devastating blow that destroyed the creature in a blast of energy.
The force sent Tenchi spiraling backward. For a few minutes Tenchi lay still on the ground, exhausted from the battle. So that's a demon. He thought as he caught his breath. Slowly, Tenchi stood up. Gingerly, he poked his left side, wondering why he was uninjured.
Did..Did Ryan do this? He thought. If that's so than that means.. Without further thought, Tenchi sprang forward, racing home to call his grandfather.
Chapter 20--Tenchi's My Friend Too
"Ryan?" Ryoko whispered apprehensively. Ryan was on his back, clutching his side. Ryoko gently pried his hands away. She saw the blood spreading along his once white sweater. "What happened to you?" She asked, the fear evident in her voice.
"Tookit…from…Tenchi" Ryan said between labored breaths. "He's..safe..they tried to get him.. tonight..they..failed" he said laughing weakly. "But you could die." Ryoko said in shock, biting her lip. Ryan shook his head. "Tenchi's…my friend too..had to…help him. Said…I'd die before..I'd let them…take him…" "Shh.." Ryoko said putting her right index finger on his pale lips while trying to calm the racing of her heart. "We need to get you home. Can you stand?" "If…you help..me.." With some effort, Ryoko managed to stand Ryan upright. She placed his left arm around her shoulders and her right arm around his waist. Slowly they began to make their way home. "Be prepared.." Ryan began. "They'll come soon..I feel a dark presence…must be ready." "You need rest." Ryoko said her breathing now labored, her heart fearful for the kenshin's safety. Please don't let him die. She thought pleadingly, as she looked up at the night sky. Ryan's frowned. "We need help." He rasped, concentrating. Lord Yosho, he thought telepathically, come quickly. We need your help. Help was closer than the kenshin thought. Outside, everyone had been searching for Ryan and Ryoko. Fearing for Tenchi's safety, the Masaki household had gone outside to seek the only one who could help them. Upon hearing Ryan's thoughts, Yosho stopped walking, turning abruptly around. "Azaka, Kamedaki follow me. Quickly!" He said heading deeper into the forest. The Juraian knights quickly followed. The two princess close behind. Within a minute, they found Ryoko and an unconscious Ryan slumped on the ground. "What has happened here?" Yosho asked as he watched Azaka and Kamedaki gently lift Ryan up. Ryoko only shook her head in response. Yosho frowned but said nothing. With a tilt of his head, he signaled everyone to follow him back home. Once inside the house, the two knights gingerly removed Ryan's sweater before laying him on the couch. "My God!" Azaka said in shock, staring down at the half dressed kenshin "That wound, it came from a sword." "But the sweater is intact, no damage at all." Kamedaki exclaimed as he inspected the sweater. "What happened to him?" Ayeka asked in shock. Everyone turned to Ryoko. Ryoko crossed her arms and said, "Don't look at me like that. I didn't do it. One minute we were looking at the stars. The next minute he was on the ground saying Tenchi was in trouble." She answered defensively. "What!" Ayeka yelled grabbing Ryoko roughly by the shoulders. " So Tenchi was in trouble! I knew it! What did the kenshin say? What happened to Tenchi? Tell me!" "Calm down princess." Ryoko said, forcing herself to gently remove Ayeka's hands. "Whatever happened to Tenchi, Ryan took it away. Tenchi is fine." "I'm sorry." Ayeka said, backing away. She looked down at Ryan in shame. "Of course he helped him. He swore that he would do so, and he did." She whispered, sitting down. "Azaka, some hot water please. Kamedaki, towels and bandages as well." Yosho ordered, rolling up his sleeves. Ryoko stared at Ryan, her eyes full of pain.. "Will he be all right?" She asked. "Yes." Yosho answered, placing a towel Kamedaki gave him under the traveler's back. He began cleansing the wound, the once clear water turning redder with each ring of the cloth. Yosho inspected the wound. It was three inches long and half an inch wide. "It's stopped bleeding and it's begun to close." He commented applying an antibiotic and bandaging the wound. He then stood up. "All he needs is rest." He said motioning to Azaka and Kamedaki. The two knights picked up the prone warrior and gently took him upstairs. He then turned to Ryoko. "Now, tell me what the kenshin said."