I do not claim to own any of the 'Tenchi Muyo!' characters. They belong to AIC, Pioneer and a bunch of other people. Any characters you do not recognize from the Tenchi series are mine, and I would appriciate it if you would NOT use them without my permission.
I am currently at work on the 5th and 6th chapters. The 5th is almost complete and should be expected by the next year.
Comments are very welcomed. E-mail: Ryoko@tracyinternet.net
Memories - Chapter 4 - Bereavement
From the previous chapter....
Tenchi finally made it back home and was exhausted. He collapsed on the couch once he was inside. Ryoko and Ayeka were at his side in a heartbeat. "Tenchi! Are you all right?" He tried to talk, but was breathing to hard.
Nobuyuki, Ryo-ohki, Washu, and Yosho entered the room. Washu looked concerned. "You went out in the forest, didn't you? Yosho and I both looked at the scale and we know what it comes off of."
Tenchi nodded his head and sat up. "Dragon." He managed.
Washu shook her head. "No, not a dragon, silly. Those don't exist. There is a rare species of lizard out here and it loves flesh. It is 14 inches at the shoulders and 5 feet long."
Tenchi had his breath back and could finally talk. "No, I didn't see a lizard. It was a dragon. It was over 4 feet at the shoulders and nearly 6 when it stood on its hind legs! I was out taking a walk when I saw it fly over me. I hid behind a bush, but it knew I was there. The creature came over to me, but when I stood up in fear, it became scared and shot fire from its mouth." Tenchi was shaking all over with fear. He didn't want repeat of the occurrence.
Washu was still unsure. "Dragons don't even live in this universe, you know. At least not anymore. Can you describe the other features for me?"
Tenchi furrowed his brow. "It had two wings on its back and it could fly very well. Its front legs could be used to walk, or as hands. It could breathe fire and smoke and it had big, sharp teeth. The dragon had big claws too. Big."
A smirk came across Ryoko's face. Tenchi really was frightened. "It didn't hurt you, did it, my Tenchi?" She caressed his face, but Ayeka grabbed her hand and threw it back to Ryoko's side.
Tenchi sighed. "No. It seemed docile enough, until I moved."
Ryoko pulled her sleeve back and flexed her muscles. "Why don't you let me get rid of the little dragon?"
Washu put her hand on Ryoko's shoulder. "No, better not. You'll have to face Ikaroshi if you do."
Ryoko's jaw dropped. "WHAT?!?"
Washu took the scale from a pocket on her shirt. "I was wondering why I found a small amount of DNA from Ikaroshi on the scale. Now I know." She turned to Tenchi. "You did see a dragon. It is a symbol from Ikaroshi. Kagato was sometimes referred to as a dragon or demon and so was his ship. I don't know where he got the creature, but it is roaming the forest as a sign, Ikaroshi isn't finished with us just yet."
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Ryoko plopped down on the couch next to Tenchi. "So, Ikaroshi isn't dead, he wants to kill us all, and he's got a dragon friend to help him?"
Washu nodded. "Something like that."
Ayeka sat down on the other side of Tenchi. "It seems we are in quite the predicament."
Ryoko nodded and began nuzzling Tenchi. "But as long as I have my Tenchi, I'll be just fine."
Tenchi tensed as he saw Ayeka clench her teeth and look Ryoko right in the eyes. He hoped another fight wouldn't start.
Though Ryoko really didn't want to have anybody tell her what to do and what not to, especially prissy Ayeka, she halted nuzzling Tenchi. "It is better for Tenchi if we don't fight." She told herself.
Washu had an annoyed look on her face as she gazed at the three on the couch. "You weren't listening to me, were you?"
Tenchi nervously laughed and wished he could get out from between the two women. "I didn't catch all of it. Could you please repeat it for me?" He asked meekly.
The scientist sighed. "Yes Tenchi. I think I'm going to have to." She glowered at both Ayeka and Ryoko. "I know the princess and my daughter WEREN'T listening."
Washu made a motion with her hand and her holotop popped up. "Now then, unless Ikaroshi fires upon us, don't attack him. I didn't think he'd come back so soon because of his injuries to his body and spirit, but this isn't the case. Ikaroshi seems more then ready to battle us."
Mihoshi came into the room and stretched her arms and yawned. "Oh, I'm tired." She sat down on the couch and listened to Washu speak.
Washu started typing on the computer keyboard. "Kagato had no problem withstanding Tenchi-ken, but Ikaroshi didn't seem to take the pierce as well. With this in mind, try to hit the spot where Tenchi stuck him. It won't be fully healed because wounds from Juraian energy mend much slower then most. This is because of the origin of the bio-energy, which starts from one main point and travels outward at a speed...."
The scientist continued on and on and everyone was much relieved (Excluding Washu, who was quite enjoying herself) when Sasami came in the room with sandwiches and iced lemonade for everyone. "I thought you all might be hungry."
Ryo-ohki jumped up on Sasami's shoulder and spotted three carrots. "Meowr!" She hopped off the little princess and followed her around, waiting for lunch.
Sasami handed out the plates and the drinks. "I hope everybody enjoys it all." She bent down and gave the small cabbit her carrots.
Tenchi smiled as he munched on his sandwich. "Delicious, Sasami! I always love the meals you cook."
Sasami blushed slightly and nodded her head. "Thank you, Tenchi. I try my best." She started eating the lunch she prepared and stroked Ryo-ohki.
Mihoshi finished her lunch and sat out on the front porch. It had been awhile since she had first arrived on Earth. Three whole years, maybe more. Mihoshi didn't keep track anymore.
Mihoshi lied on her back and stared into the abyss. The sky was a bright blue and not a cloud was in the sky. Mihoshi exhaled loudly. "What I'd give for one more day of...."
"Mihoshi!" Sasami called from the inside of the house. "Would you like some desert?"
The Galaxy Police Officer rolled over on her side and got up from the porch. "Yeah! That would be great!" She hurried into the house and went straight to the kitchen. "Mmmm! Snow cones! I want grape!"
Sasami giggled. "All right Mihoshi. Here is the flavor bottle." She handed it to the excited woman who started pouring the liquid all over her mound of ice.
Ryoko teleported into the kitchen and clasped her hands together. "Hey, this'll really hit the spot." She sat cross-legged in the air, waiting for everyone else to get theirs.
Noboyuki was the last of the group, besides Ryoko, to get his snow cone. "Uh, Ryoko, did you get yours yet?"
Ryoko grinned and shook her head no. "I was waiting for everyone to pick his or her flavors. I didn't want to share this." She pulled a bottle of expensive sake from behind her back.
Sweat drops appeared on everyone in the room. Ayeka groaned. "Really Ryoko. I don't think anyone would want to share with you anyway."
Ryoko stopped pouring the sake over her ice and glared at Ayeka before going back to the task at hand. She placed the bottle down, grabbed a spoon and dug into her rather large bowl of shaved ice. "Mmmm... Not half bad!"
Ayeka sighed and continued daintily eating her desert. She had chosen strawberry and had only put on enough syrup to cover the ice.
Mihoshi sat down next to the princess and began scarfing her desert. "Wow! This is cold!" She turned to Sasami. "Could you hand me the grape flavoring? I think I need some more."
Sasami gave the bottle to the Galaxy Police Officer, who immediately started to douse her ice mound with the grape flavoring.
A few seconds later only a few drops of liquid were coming out of the bottle. "Oh, gone already?"
Tenchi took another bite of his treat. "How much was in there before you started using it, Mihoshi?"
Mihoshi scratched her head. "Almost a full bottle. I wonder where it all went?"
Washu sighed and put her empty bowl in the sink. "If only you knew, Mihoshi." She walked towards the lab. "Well, I'm off to my studies. I won't be down for dinner, so don't bother coming in a getting me."
A tiny sigh of relief was emitted from Tenchi, but no one heard.
Sasami finished her shaved ice and started clearing the table and washing dishes. "Ok little Washu. I'll remember." She thought a moment, then looked up at the scientist, raising both eyebrows. "Are you sure you don't want me to bring you something to eat while you work?"
Washu stopped. "No, I don't want to be disturbed while I'm in the middle of my studies. Thanks for offering though." She smiled, went into her lab, and locked the door.
Ayeka wiped her mouth with a napkin and got up from the table. "I wonder what she is experimenting with now?"
"I'm just glad it isn't me." Tenchi muttered under his breath.
"What was that, Lord Tenchi?"
Tenchi reddened. "Oh... ah, nothing."
Ayeka straightened her dress and looked over at Ryoko, who was sleeping on the table. "Who does she think she is?" The princess thought to herself. "Never mind. Pay no attention to that demon. She is nothing but a nuisance."
Sasami called over Ryo-ohki. "You want to help me with these dishes, Ryo-ohki?"
The cabbit morphed into child form and pushed a chair to stand on over to the sink. She then began helping Sasami, quickly learning exactly how you do it.
Ryoko-ohki lifted one of the bowls she just washed and showed it to Sasami. "Meow?"
The little princess grinned. "Yes, that's right. You are doing a good job."
Ryo-ohki beamed with pride and tried even harder to please her friend.
Ayeka couldn't help but smile at the two best friends. Who ever thought a princess and a spaceship could become so fond of each other? Their differences didn't bother them, and if they both wanted something, they would share it. It seemed as though nothing could tear the two apart.
Sasami tried to hold back a giggle as she poked Ryo-ohki. The cabbit yelped and dropped the towel. A grin came across her face and poked the little princess back. "Take that!" She seemed to say.
Ayeka stifled the laughter that threatened to emerge. The two girls were now splashing water at each other, making a mess of everything.
"Ryo-ohki, you are soaking wet!" Sasami giggled.
Ryo-ohki outstretched her arms and looked at her water-laden fur. "Meow." She morphed into her cabbit form and then began licking herself. Ryo-ohki stopped and nudged the little princess.
Sasami picked up Ryo-ohki. "I'm pretty wet too, huh? I'll come right back and finish the dishes as soon as I get a dry pair of clothes." She put the furry creature down and skipped up to her room, humming a Juraian holiday song.
The song brought back memories to Ayeka.
She was on the planet Jurai with her sister, Sasami, and her mother, Misaki. It was before Ryoko and Kagato had started their attack.
"I just love the flower festival!" Ayeka exclaimed, taking a blue Chitva flower from a young woman handing them out to passersbys. Ayeka put the pansy-like flower in her hair and strolled over to a nearby booth. A string of flowers was draped across the top of the stall and one of Ayeka's friends was behind the counter. She looked up when she saw the princess. "Ayeka! Oh, I'm so glad you came!" The deep blue haired teen came around the counter and gave Ayeka a hug.
Ayeka smiled and put her hands on her friend's shoulders. "Kimeya, did you really think I wouldn't show?"
Kimeya laughed. "No, not really. But you don't usually see royals walking down the streets with common people." She walked back behind her booth, a look of pleasure on her smooth face. Her straight hair flowed down to her waist, where it was tied back with a purple ribbon, which matched the edging on her traditional Juraian dress. The dress was white and the material was made from a plant only found on Jurai. The bark was cut into long, thin strips and soaked until it lost its coloration. It could then be dyed to any color and used like any other kind of thread. The result was a light, silken-like cloth with a hefty price tag.
Kimeya wiped her brow and moved one of the many potted plants on the counter so she could better see Ayeka. "So, how's life as a princess been going for you?"
Ayeka furrowed her brow. "Quite boring. I have almost no freedom whatsoever. But I will soon, being that I am almost of age."
Kimeya sighed. "I don't know how you can put up with so many rules. I mean, you aren't even supposed to be walking around outside the palace without permission from your father. I guess I'm lucky being a guardian's daughter."
Ayeka fiddled with her purple hair. "Yes indeed. I suppose having royal blood can have its advantages though."
Kimeya suddenly perked up. "Yeah, like having an almost endless supply of money, your own personal ship, and first pick at the guys."
Ayeka grinned a picked a flower from on e of the pants on the counter. She spun it around, staring at it intently. "Too bad there are no half-decent ones around."
Kimeya's jaw dropped in surprise, a smirk on her face. "Oh, I'd give anything to have your position, princess! You think nothing of it! I don't think you know how much power you really have."
The princess dropped the flower to the ground. "What can I do that you can't? Besides being able to use the Bio-energy, what makes me so different from you?"
Kimeya shook her head. "I don't understand you sometimes, Ayeka."
Ayeka smiled, but her look was distanced.
"Ayeka! Come see what I won at one of the games!" Sasami called.
The princess turned to see her little sister waving to her. It was best she went over to her. Ayeka bowed to Kimeya out of habit. "My condolences. I must go now."
Kimeya held back a giggle when the princess bowed. "Good bye! Maybe I'll see you later, ok?"
Ayeka nodded and walked over to Sasami. "So what is it that you have received as a prize?"
Sasami held out her hand and revealed a silver necklace with a charm on the end. "The charm is so cute! It looks kind of like a rabbit and a cat all in one."
Ayeka froze. It couldn't be from....
"Hello there, princess." Came a voice from behind Ayeka.
Turning around, Ayeka saw that it was whom she had dreaded. Miss demon herself.
Ryoko vanished from behind the stall and reappeared in front of the two princesses. "Look at the beautiful charm necklace Sasami won, Ayeka. Don't you like it?"
Ayeka set her jaw and wouldn't talk to the woman standing in front of her. She knew Ryoko was making fun of her.
Ryoko moved next to Sasami and put her arm around the child. "She is so good at the ring toss game. All three rings, Ayeka. Would you like to give it a try? It only costs 200 Juraian for three rings."
Ayeka turned her head. "I don't want to spend my money o a game run by you, thilthy rat."
Ryoko growled and took a step over to the already fuming Ayeka. "I am no rat." The demoness said, anger in her voice. "You think I'd trick you? Your little sister won, didn't she?"
"Ryoko!" Came an excited voice.
Misaki hurriedly came over to Ryoko and gave her a hug. "Oh, how are you? Are you doing well these days?"
Ryoko struggled to breathe and had to resort to teleporting to get away.
Misaki franticly started searching for the woman. "Oh no! Where did she go? Is she ok? Ryoko! Oh... oh.... Are you over here? No, how about here? Ryoko?"
Sasami tugged on her mother's dress. "Mom, it's ok. Ryoko can do that."
Misaki came out from underneath a booth. "Oh, ok." She stood and seemingly forgot all about the whole thing. "What is that in your hand, Sasami?"
The little princess smiled. "It is a charm necklace. I got it at one of the games." She fingered the little charm. "Could you put it on, please?"
Misaki gently took the piece of jewelry and fastened it around her daughter's neck. "Oh... Sasami, you look beautiful!"
Sasami smiled and ran her fingers down the chain. "I really do like it, Mom. I am so glad Ryoko gave it to me as a prize." The little princess looked around. "I really should thank her, but I don't know where she went."
Ayeka took her sister's hand and began browsing through the booths. "Oh, we'll see her again. Don't you worry about that." Ayeka said, disgust in her voice.
As the day went on, and as the sun grew warmer, the scent of all the flowers was in the air. So strong was it, that the air was almost intoxicating.
The flower in Ayeka's hair was still bright and colorful, seemingly immune to the suns warm rays.
"Princess Ayeka, hello! Oh, and she is with that darling little Sasami." People would say as they walked by. "Look, the queen! Where are our manners? Let us bow."
As all people of higher status should do, the three smiled and nodded in acknowledgement of the curtsey paid to them. Ayeka weakly smiled to one as her eyes caught a glimpse of something darting across the orange sky. "Here's your chance to thank Ryoko, Sasami dear." She mumbled to her sister.
Sasami's eyes lit up and she scanned the crowd. She pulled on Ayeka's sleeve. "There she is sis!" Sasami ran up to the demoness and hugged her.
Ryoko smiled down at the sky blue haired girl and patted her head. "Hey Sasami, how are you? Are you having fun?"
Sasami grinned and nodded her head. "Yes, I am! I love festivals, and this is one of my favorites, right behind Summer Solstice."
Ryoko reached down and touched the necklace the little princess was wearing. "So, you like it?"
Sasami's eyes brightened. "Oh yes! Thank you so much fore giving it to me as a prize."
Curiosity filled Sasami's eyes when she saw something glint in the sunlight on Ryoko's wrist. She reached out and touched the gem as Ryoko quietly watched her. Sasami then noticed another on the opposite wrist and one near the base of her neck. "What are those, Ryoko?"
A mischievous smirk came across the demoness's face. "I'll show you."
Ayeka sighed as she watched Sasami and Ryoko talk. She wondered how Sasami could be so friendly to so many people. "I wonder where Ryoko is from and who her parents are." She swiftly pushed the thought from her mind as she saw Ryoko fly up into the air with her sister!
Ayeka ran to the spot they were standing and looked up. "Sasami! Ryoko! I demand you put her down this instant!"
Ryoko hovered in mid-air, Sasami held tight in her arms. Sasami was amazed and very excited. "Wow! This is so fun!"
Ryoko smiled evilly as she gazed down at Ayeka. "I'm just giving Sasami a little ride that's all."
Ayeka tightened her hands into fists. "RYOKO! Come down here!"
Ryoko shook her head. "No, not right now. I'm not finished showing your little sister what I can do." She winked and then darted straight up into the clouds, Sasami giggling with delight.
Ayeka stomped her foot and clenched her jaw. She could bring Ryoko down if she really wanted to, but she was afraid of hurting her sister. "Ooooooh! Ryoko takes advantage of every situation!"
Ayeka scanned the orange sky, but did not see Ryoko anywhere. "Now where did she go?"
"Watch out, Ayeka!" Sasami giggled.
The princess looked behind her to see Ryoko and Sasami on the back of a demon headed right towards her. Ayeka shrieked and dropped to the ground, as the spirit leaped over he and then skidded to a halt. Ryoko helped Sasami down and then she leapt off.
Not a sound was in the air as Ayeka slowly got up from the ground. Everyone's eyes were on the creature before them. It was 12 feet tall, and seemed to be one called from the clouds. It resembled the demon Ryoko had called at the Onsen, but this one was white in color and it was wispier. It also had a long, snake like tail that snapped back and forth. The spirit seemed excited and ready to do whatever it was told to.
Ryoko glanced at Ayeka and then at the spirit she had called. "Impressive, isn't she? I summoned her from the sky."
Ayeka rolled her eyes. "Don't tell me you can distinguish if it is a he or she."
Ryoko appeared a bit confused. "Of course I can. I roused it, didn't I?"
The demon roared and brought it's tail down hard on the ground, making it shake.
Some people gasped, and a small child could be heard whimpering.
Ryoko pointed to the beast. "You see, she agrees with me." The demoness faced the spirit. "Don't you?"
The demon growled and shook its head back and forth, a certain fire in its eyes.
Ayeka looked at Ryoko in disgust and then turned and glanced around her. The festival seemed to have come to a halt ever since the spirit came and galloped through the streets. "Now look what you have done, demon child." Ayeka motioned around her. "Everyone is too afraid to enjoy themselves!"
Ryoko's smile faded away as she glimpsed at the silent, shivering Juraians. They were obviously scared and intimidated by this creature.
Ryoko calmly waked up to the spirit and put her hand on its leg. "What are you all afraid of? It isn't going to hurt you!" She faced Sasami. "Show them there is nothing to be afraid of, princess."
Sasami scampered up to the demon and pet her back. The demon made a guttural sound and closed its eyes. The princess smiled and rubbed its back more.
Ayeka set her jaw and walked up to her sister and grabbed her by the hand. "Come here Sasami. You will not be playing with either one of these demons!"
Ryoko stepped in front of Ayeka, but the princess slapped her face and pushed her out of the way.
The beast was watching and as soon as Ayeka lashed out at Ryoko, the creature panicked. She bellowed and lumbered towards the princess. Before Ryoko could call out for the demon to stop, it raised its arm, extending the claws.
Ryoko teleported right in front of Ayeka as the spirit brought its powerful strike down upon her.
Ayeka came back from her daydream and shivered. She didn't recall much from that point. She remembered Ryoko being thrown to the side, blood everywhere. The demon had stood dumbstruck for a minute, then let out a tremendous roar that was deafening. It the disappeared.
Ayeka recalled holding her sister, and then a cloaked figure running up to the body of Ryoko. The person picked up the demoness and then vanished through the crowd.
Sasami came up to Ayeka and looked into her eyes. "Why are you still standing here, sis? Is everything ok?"
Ayeka snapped out of her daydream and blinked, as if she didn't know where she was. "Oh, no. I'm fine, thank you. I was just... thinking."
Ayeka walked into the living room, her little sister right behind her. They both sat down on the couch and Ayeka let out sigh. "Do you remember my friend Kimeya, Sasami?"
Sasami thought a moment before nodded yes. "Kimeya was the guardian's daughter, wasn't she?"
Ayeka placed her hands in her lap. "I miss her. She was always there to listen."
Sasami placed her small hand on her sister's. "Kimeya and her family had to leave. Her father, Tsunaki, was called to go with one of our senates of Jurai, so he decided to bring his family with him. Tsunaki didn't know they would never return."
Ayeka sighed and smiled at her sister. "You're right Sasami. Thank you." She leaned over and embraced Sasami. Ayeka then got up from the couch and headed down the hall and up to her room.
The rest of the day went well and not one fight happened at the dinner table, to Tenchi's relief.
As the moon rose up into the sky, Tenchi was getting ready for bed. He brushed his teeth, the moonlight shining through the bathroom window. Tenchi glanced at the moon as he splashed water on his face. It always reminded him of Ryoko. She was frequently up and about when the sun began to set, and often sat on the roof and gazed at the stars.
Tenchi chuckled to himself. He remember the one time he had gone up on the roof to visit Ryoko. It had been fun up there with her, but he didn't want her to know because she would jump all over him.
A shriek caught Tenchi's attention. It was Ayeka's, but it wasn't the usual irritated scream that she let out when bickering with the demoness. This one seemed terrified.
Tenchi ran out of the bedroom and towards where he heard the yell. He opened the front door and saw Ryoko staring at Ayeka intently, beam sword held ready.
The rest of his family and friends were on the porch, watching intently. Tenchi stared in disbelief as Ryoko swung her blade at Ayeka, who barely got out of the way.
"Why isn't anyone doing anything!?!" Tenchi exclaimed, walking towards the two women.
Washu tried to grab Tenchi, but he kept going. "Tenchi, no! Don't go near Ryoko! Something is terribly wrong!"
Tenchi stopped just a few feet from Ryoko and turned towards Washu. "Huh? What do you...." He was cut off and choked by Ryoko. She held the beam sword up to his throat.
Terror struck Tenchi as he looked into Ryoko's eyes. They were not her yellow eyes, but cast a red color instead. All three jewels could be seen glowing a deep red color, the same as her eyes.
Ryoko picked Tenchi up by his neck and tossed him to the ground. She then returned her attention to Ayeka, who was still standing in the same spot. As silent as the breeze, Ryoko darted towards the princess, beam sword raised above her head.
Ayeka put up her force field just as Ryoko brought down her blade. The princess called out for her guardians. "Kamidake! Azaka! Stop this demon!"
Azaka and Kamidake flew over from the hose and fired shots, all blocked by Ryoko. She extended her hand and blasted them, knocking them to the ground, unable to move.
Washu helped Tenchi away from the battle and checked his injuries. "I think you'll be all right. Tell me if you feel lightheaded though."
Tenchi nodded, rubbing his neck. "She is possessed... but not by a spirit."
Washu furrowed her brow. "Yes I know. What I'd like to know is how she got all three gems. Ikaroshi seems to be controlling her much better, and I think it is because Ryoko has all the jewels."
Tenchi bit his lip. "It's my fault. I didn't know Ikaroshi could control her like this." He pounded his fists to the ground. "I should have never given Ryoko all her gems!"
Washu sighed. "No one knew this would happen, Tenchi."
Tenchi watched in horror as Ryoko launched herself into the air and picked up Ayeka. The princess screamed as she was carried up into the air. Ryoko said nothing at all, but just looked at Ayeka with such hate in her eyes that it tore into her like daggers.
Ayeka tried to wiggle loose, but Ryoko's hold was too strong. The princess watched as Tenchi became further away until he was no longer visible. "Ryoko, what are you doing with me?!?"
Ryoko stopped and hovered in the air. A sneer slipped across her face that made Ayeka feel like she was in hell.
Sasami stood on the grass, a far away look on her face. Suddenly she came back to reality and whispered something almost inaudible. "The dream...."
Tenchi looked at the girl on the front lawn. "What did you say, Sasami?"
Sasami franticly ran towards Tenchi. "Tenchi, the dream! Ryoko is going to kill Ayeka! We have to do something! Ryoko is going to kill my sister!"
The boy saw that Sasami was getting hysterical, and wasn't sure what to do. "What do you mean by the dream? I... I don't understand."
The little princess tightly hugged Tenchi and sobbed into his chest. "I dreamt that Ryoko was going to... to...." Sasami tried to swallow back the tears and took a deep breath. "I dreamt that Ryoko would destroy my sis. Now it is going to come true!"
Tenchi glanced at his grandpa. He was looking up in the clear, moonlit sky. "The are awfully high up now. You cannot see them with the naked eye."
Washu abruptly pushed over to Tenchi and brought up her holotop. She hurriedly typed in some commands. "If I make haste, I may be able to create a huge cushion around the yard."
A soft glow came from around the outline of the yard and expanded slowly.
Ryoko stopped in the air and stared at Ayeka. That same sneer was still on the demoness's face. Ryoko then darted down to the earth at an incredible speed.
When Ayeka could see Tenchi once more, she felt Ryoko's grip loosening. "Don't let go!!!" Ayeka franticly cried. "Please don't let go!"
The demoness lifted Ayeka over her head and tossed her towards the ground. Ryoko floated in the air and watched the princess fall, a menacing look on her face.
Washu saw Ayeka plunge through the air, coming closer and closer to the ground. "I'm not going to make it! The shield isn't ready! I'm not going to make it!"
Sasami turned and buried her face into Tenchi's chest as Ayeka smashed into the ground. She dared not to look at what was left of her big sister.
Washu froze. That was it. She wasn't fast enough. Ayeka was dead and gone forever.
Everyone was unmoving. Sasami ran to Tenchi and began crying, but he pushed her away and ran to where Ayeka had hit the ground. When he reached the spot in the yard, he wished he hadn't looked. The princess no longer looked like anything. The earth was soaked in blood and nothing was left of her.
Tenchi felt sick to his stomach as he turned away. He started to walk towards the house when he was Ayeka's headband, undamaged. Tenchi picked it up, held it close, and began to weep for her.
Tears streaked down everybody's faces, all feeling the immense loss. Sasami clenched her fists and closed her eyes. "Tsunami... why?"
Tsunami appeared to Sasami in a vision. "I am not in control of everything that happens, but I can help sway more destruction from coming. Listen, Ikaroshi is nearby and will have Ryoko attack again. Find the man and I will help you from there."
Sasami opened her eyes and stepped off the porch, onto the grass. Ryo-ohki slowly followed behind the little princess. Sasami pet the cabbit on the head. "Ryo-ohki, see if you can find Ikaroshi."
Ryo-ohki growled at the name and hopped a few feet ahead. She stood on her hind legs and sniffed the air. "Meowr!" The cabbit bounded towards the edge of the forest, Sasami close in pursuit.
Suddenly a cloaked figure appeared in front of the two, shadows covering his complexion. He glanced up at the sky, a beam of moonlight catching his emerald eyes, making them glint brightly.
Sasami shuddered as she realized this man was Ikaroshi. She kept faith in what Tsunami told her and listened for the goddess.
Ikaroshi glared at Sasami. "I'm sorry, but I can't let you do that." He reached out and grabbed the princess.
Everyone back at the house heard Sasami scream. Tenchi, who was on the grass holding the headband belonging to Ayeka, jumped at the yell. "Oh no! Not Sasami too!" He began running towards the sound and soon found Ikaroshi holding the little princess by the collar of her outfit. A limp Ryo-ohki was nearby on the ground.
Ikaroshi looked at Tenchi and smiled. "If it isn't Tenchi. The one who always tries to be the hero."
The rest of Tenchi's family and friends were right behind Tenchi and arrived soon after he did. Yosho placed a hand on Tenchi's shoulder. "Keep faith and trust in your powers. They will not fail if you understand how to use them."
Tenchi nodded and brought out Tenchi-ken. "Let Sasami go!" He said sternly to Ikaroshi.
The man looked down at the little girl gasping for air and released his grip, letting her fall to the ground. Ikaroshi placed one hand under his cloak. "Ryoko! Come here." Ryoko was at his side immediately and awaited orders.
Tenchi looked Ryoko up and down, a deep sorrow in his heart. "Ryoko! Snap out of it! Please!"
Ikaroshi laughed at the boy's effort. "That will not work, Tenchi. She is completely under my control. You see, the stone was never broken. The one that your deceased princess broke was only half as powerful as the genuine one. In other words, Ayeka destroyed a fake."
Sasami crawled away from Ikaroshi and went over to Ryo-ohki, who was just coming to. The cabbit opened her eyes and shook her head. "Meow?" She gazed at Ikaroshi and Ryoko, who were standing on the grass.
"I'll have to thank you, Tenchi." Ikaroshi began. "Thank you for giving Ryoko the other two gems. It would have been much harder to take them from you and that sword of yours."
Tenchi appeared confused. "What do you mean? Why does it matter if Ryoko has them or not?"
Ikaroshi shook his head. "Don't play dumb with me. I am aware both you and Washu knew the gems had something to do with my control over Ryoko." He pulled the hood of his cloak down off his head. "Thanks to you, Tenchi, I can now use the genuine stone. It would not work unless Ryoko had all three jewels."
Tenchi clenched his fists. "Shut up!"
Ikaroshi put on a fake surprised look on. "Getting a bit angry aren't we? Don't worry, I'll give you something to let your anger out on." He nodded his head and Ryoko lunged at Tenchi.
Tenchi dropped his sword as Ryoko body slammed him. She quickly flipped him over on his stomach and grabbed his arms. Tenchi was still holding onto Ayeka's headband and did not let go of it even as Ryoko twisted his arms.
Mihoshi watched Tenchi grimace from the pain. She could not stand watching it and took out her gun. Mihoshi pointed towards Ryoko, but Washu's hand moved the gun away. "You can't shoot my daughter.... I tried so hard to raise her and take care of her."
Mihoshi's lip quivered. "But she is hurting Tenchi! I can't just watch Tenchi suffer like that...."
Washu wiped a tear from her eye. "Only shoot if she is going to kill him. Understand?" Washu's heart nearly collapsed from saying the words.
Mihoshi put her gun back in her belt but kept one hand on it just in case.
Ikaroshi approached Tenchi. "I see you have not improved much since Kagato. Why, you don't even have the courage to fight back against this woman." He made a signal with his eyes to Ryoko and she twisted his arms hard.
Tenchi cried out and closed his eyes. It was amazing his arms hadn't dislocated yet. He saw that he could kick Ryoko off of him, but could not bring himself to do so. Tenchi had just lost one that he loved and didn't want to lose another, though kicking her would barely phase the demoness.
Ikaroshi looked disgustedly at Tenchi. "Fool! Your arms are going to come off in a minute if you don't fight back!"
Ryoko jammed her elbow a few inches below Tenchi's shoulder, breaking his arm.
Tenchi could not stand the pain any longer and kicked Ryoko hard. She let go, but seemed as though she never felt the blow
Mihoshi swiftly came over to Tenchi and pulled him away from Ryoko. "Tenchi, are you ok?" She reached over to check his arm when she suddenly found a purple beam sword in front of her. "Ohhhh...." Mihoshi slowly moved her gaze upwards and saw Ikaroshi standing there, a slightly annoyed look on his face. "Leave Tenchi alone." He moved the blade closer to the Galaxy Police officer, who instantly recoiled back.
Tenchi grabbed his arm and winced as Ikaroshi turned his attention back to him. "Stupid boy." Ikaroshi said, walking over to him. He put his foot on Tenchi and moved him side to side. "Stupid and weak."
Tenchi rolled out from under the man's foot and grabbed Tenchi-ken. He stood up and slid Ayeka's headband up on his injured arm, which hung limply at his side.
Ikaroshi looked at Tenchi with surprise. "You would dare fight your mistress and me with an injury like yours? What if you seriously maul Ryoko just because you could not easily maneuver the sword? I know you do not wish to hurt her."
Tenchi ignited Tenchi-ken and stared at Ikaroshi, a certain look of hatred in his eyes. Again, Ryoko was taken from him, and this time, Ryoko may never be her own self again.
Sasami was observing everything that was going on, when she heard Tsunami's voice. "Go to Funaho-ki." Sasami glimpsed at Ikaroshi and saw that he was too engrossed in mocking and vexing Tenchi to notice her. She got up and ran into the forest, heading towards the tree. Little did she know, something was following her.
When the young princess reached the path that led over the water to Funaho-ki, she stopped and took a deep breath. As she approached the first stepping stone, a breeze kicked up and started blowing through the forest. Sasami paid no attention to it and hopped across to the Juraian tree. Her hand moved to touch the tree and a rainbow colored light came off the hand of the princess and into the tree.
Sasami firmly placed her hand on the bark and softly repeated words taught to her when she was young. "I come upon you, o' guardian. Help my people, enter our souls. To this I pray, give us the wisdom. We humbly ask your service in this dark hour. Bring to us protection forevermore and always, o' tree of living flesh. Produce forth... produce forth...."The little princess searched her mind for the words but she could not remember the rest. Without the prayer, the tree may not respond. Suddenly, everything just seemed to fall apart and Sasami began to cry. She slumped to the ground and wept into her hands, whispering her dead sister's name. "Ayeka... Oh, Ayeka...."
The breeze gently flowing through the forest turned into a wind and kept growing stronger. The sky clouded over and it grew very dark, the moon almost invisible behind the cloud cover. An eerie blackness was around everything and it seemed as though you could touch it.
Sasami was petrified as she heard a branch crack behind her and Funaho-ki. A bush rustled and she closed her eyes and hugged her knees.
The wind began whipping wildly through the trees and then a pounding on the ground started. The beating continued as the wind blew in hard gusts.
Sasami dared to open her eyes and saw before her a massive beast obviously a spirit that Ryoko called to follow the princess. Sasami shook in terror as she studied the creature. It was about 12 feet tall, and seemed to be a demon summoned from the clouds. In fact, it very much resembled the one Ryoko called at the Onsen. Though this one was white in color and wispier. It also had a long, snake-like tail that was pounding on the ground in a somewhat excited manner....
Sasami stopped shivering and stood erect. "You are that spirit Ryoko called at the 'Flower Festival', aren't you?"
The demon shook his head side to side and made a gurgling noise. It then gently nuzzled the princess, being careful not to knock her over.
Sasami sighed in relief and pet the spirit's head. "I am so afraid. My sister is... is... not hear, Ryoko is not in control of her own mind anymore, I don't remember the ancient words to communicate to the Juraian trees, and Tenchi is going to die if I don't get some help!" She crouched down and looked at her reflection in the water. Sasami could barely make it out because thick, black clouds covered the moon.
As she gazed into the water, her reflection faded out and was replaced by Tsunami's. Sasami gasped in surprise and stood up, moving back to the demon near her, never taking her eyes off the reflection.
The area around the lake and Juraian tree was cleansed of the black fog and the wind died down completely.
The spirit barked and bowed its head before the water. Sasami stepped away from the creature and glanced at the lake. The little princess had no reflection at all now. "What's happening?"
I am currently at work on the 5th and 6th chapters. The 5th is almost complete and should be expected by the next year.
Comments are very welcomed. E-mail: Ryoko@tracyinternet.net
Memories - Chapter 4 - Bereavement
From the previous chapter....
Tenchi finally made it back home and was exhausted. He collapsed on the couch once he was inside. Ryoko and Ayeka were at his side in a heartbeat. "Tenchi! Are you all right?" He tried to talk, but was breathing to hard.
Nobuyuki, Ryo-ohki, Washu, and Yosho entered the room. Washu looked concerned. "You went out in the forest, didn't you? Yosho and I both looked at the scale and we know what it comes off of."
Tenchi nodded his head and sat up. "Dragon." He managed.
Washu shook her head. "No, not a dragon, silly. Those don't exist. There is a rare species of lizard out here and it loves flesh. It is 14 inches at the shoulders and 5 feet long."
Tenchi had his breath back and could finally talk. "No, I didn't see a lizard. It was a dragon. It was over 4 feet at the shoulders and nearly 6 when it stood on its hind legs! I was out taking a walk when I saw it fly over me. I hid behind a bush, but it knew I was there. The creature came over to me, but when I stood up in fear, it became scared and shot fire from its mouth." Tenchi was shaking all over with fear. He didn't want repeat of the occurrence.
Washu was still unsure. "Dragons don't even live in this universe, you know. At least not anymore. Can you describe the other features for me?"
Tenchi furrowed his brow. "It had two wings on its back and it could fly very well. Its front legs could be used to walk, or as hands. It could breathe fire and smoke and it had big, sharp teeth. The dragon had big claws too. Big."
A smirk came across Ryoko's face. Tenchi really was frightened. "It didn't hurt you, did it, my Tenchi?" She caressed his face, but Ayeka grabbed her hand and threw it back to Ryoko's side.
Tenchi sighed. "No. It seemed docile enough, until I moved."
Ryoko pulled her sleeve back and flexed her muscles. "Why don't you let me get rid of the little dragon?"
Washu put her hand on Ryoko's shoulder. "No, better not. You'll have to face Ikaroshi if you do."
Ryoko's jaw dropped. "WHAT?!?"
Washu took the scale from a pocket on her shirt. "I was wondering why I found a small amount of DNA from Ikaroshi on the scale. Now I know." She turned to Tenchi. "You did see a dragon. It is a symbol from Ikaroshi. Kagato was sometimes referred to as a dragon or demon and so was his ship. I don't know where he got the creature, but it is roaming the forest as a sign, Ikaroshi isn't finished with us just yet."
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Ryoko plopped down on the couch next to Tenchi. "So, Ikaroshi isn't dead, he wants to kill us all, and he's got a dragon friend to help him?"
Washu nodded. "Something like that."
Ayeka sat down on the other side of Tenchi. "It seems we are in quite the predicament."
Ryoko nodded and began nuzzling Tenchi. "But as long as I have my Tenchi, I'll be just fine."
Tenchi tensed as he saw Ayeka clench her teeth and look Ryoko right in the eyes. He hoped another fight wouldn't start.
Though Ryoko really didn't want to have anybody tell her what to do and what not to, especially prissy Ayeka, she halted nuzzling Tenchi. "It is better for Tenchi if we don't fight." She told herself.
Washu had an annoyed look on her face as she gazed at the three on the couch. "You weren't listening to me, were you?"
Tenchi nervously laughed and wished he could get out from between the two women. "I didn't catch all of it. Could you please repeat it for me?" He asked meekly.
The scientist sighed. "Yes Tenchi. I think I'm going to have to." She glowered at both Ayeka and Ryoko. "I know the princess and my daughter WEREN'T listening."
Washu made a motion with her hand and her holotop popped up. "Now then, unless Ikaroshi fires upon us, don't attack him. I didn't think he'd come back so soon because of his injuries to his body and spirit, but this isn't the case. Ikaroshi seems more then ready to battle us."
Mihoshi came into the room and stretched her arms and yawned. "Oh, I'm tired." She sat down on the couch and listened to Washu speak.
Washu started typing on the computer keyboard. "Kagato had no problem withstanding Tenchi-ken, but Ikaroshi didn't seem to take the pierce as well. With this in mind, try to hit the spot where Tenchi stuck him. It won't be fully healed because wounds from Juraian energy mend much slower then most. This is because of the origin of the bio-energy, which starts from one main point and travels outward at a speed...."
The scientist continued on and on and everyone was much relieved (Excluding Washu, who was quite enjoying herself) when Sasami came in the room with sandwiches and iced lemonade for everyone. "I thought you all might be hungry."
Ryo-ohki jumped up on Sasami's shoulder and spotted three carrots. "Meowr!" She hopped off the little princess and followed her around, waiting for lunch.
Sasami handed out the plates and the drinks. "I hope everybody enjoys it all." She bent down and gave the small cabbit her carrots.
Tenchi smiled as he munched on his sandwich. "Delicious, Sasami! I always love the meals you cook."
Sasami blushed slightly and nodded her head. "Thank you, Tenchi. I try my best." She started eating the lunch she prepared and stroked Ryo-ohki.
Mihoshi finished her lunch and sat out on the front porch. It had been awhile since she had first arrived on Earth. Three whole years, maybe more. Mihoshi didn't keep track anymore.
Mihoshi lied on her back and stared into the abyss. The sky was a bright blue and not a cloud was in the sky. Mihoshi exhaled loudly. "What I'd give for one more day of...."
"Mihoshi!" Sasami called from the inside of the house. "Would you like some desert?"
The Galaxy Police Officer rolled over on her side and got up from the porch. "Yeah! That would be great!" She hurried into the house and went straight to the kitchen. "Mmmm! Snow cones! I want grape!"
Sasami giggled. "All right Mihoshi. Here is the flavor bottle." She handed it to the excited woman who started pouring the liquid all over her mound of ice.
Ryoko teleported into the kitchen and clasped her hands together. "Hey, this'll really hit the spot." She sat cross-legged in the air, waiting for everyone else to get theirs.
Noboyuki was the last of the group, besides Ryoko, to get his snow cone. "Uh, Ryoko, did you get yours yet?"
Ryoko grinned and shook her head no. "I was waiting for everyone to pick his or her flavors. I didn't want to share this." She pulled a bottle of expensive sake from behind her back.
Sweat drops appeared on everyone in the room. Ayeka groaned. "Really Ryoko. I don't think anyone would want to share with you anyway."
Ryoko stopped pouring the sake over her ice and glared at Ayeka before going back to the task at hand. She placed the bottle down, grabbed a spoon and dug into her rather large bowl of shaved ice. "Mmmm... Not half bad!"
Ayeka sighed and continued daintily eating her desert. She had chosen strawberry and had only put on enough syrup to cover the ice.
Mihoshi sat down next to the princess and began scarfing her desert. "Wow! This is cold!" She turned to Sasami. "Could you hand me the grape flavoring? I think I need some more."
Sasami gave the bottle to the Galaxy Police Officer, who immediately started to douse her ice mound with the grape flavoring.
A few seconds later only a few drops of liquid were coming out of the bottle. "Oh, gone already?"
Tenchi took another bite of his treat. "How much was in there before you started using it, Mihoshi?"
Mihoshi scratched her head. "Almost a full bottle. I wonder where it all went?"
Washu sighed and put her empty bowl in the sink. "If only you knew, Mihoshi." She walked towards the lab. "Well, I'm off to my studies. I won't be down for dinner, so don't bother coming in a getting me."
A tiny sigh of relief was emitted from Tenchi, but no one heard.
Sasami finished her shaved ice and started clearing the table and washing dishes. "Ok little Washu. I'll remember." She thought a moment, then looked up at the scientist, raising both eyebrows. "Are you sure you don't want me to bring you something to eat while you work?"
Washu stopped. "No, I don't want to be disturbed while I'm in the middle of my studies. Thanks for offering though." She smiled, went into her lab, and locked the door.
Ayeka wiped her mouth with a napkin and got up from the table. "I wonder what she is experimenting with now?"
"I'm just glad it isn't me." Tenchi muttered under his breath.
"What was that, Lord Tenchi?"
Tenchi reddened. "Oh... ah, nothing."
Ayeka straightened her dress and looked over at Ryoko, who was sleeping on the table. "Who does she think she is?" The princess thought to herself. "Never mind. Pay no attention to that demon. She is nothing but a nuisance."
Sasami called over Ryo-ohki. "You want to help me with these dishes, Ryo-ohki?"
The cabbit morphed into child form and pushed a chair to stand on over to the sink. She then began helping Sasami, quickly learning exactly how you do it.
Ryoko-ohki lifted one of the bowls she just washed and showed it to Sasami. "Meow?"
The little princess grinned. "Yes, that's right. You are doing a good job."
Ryo-ohki beamed with pride and tried even harder to please her friend.
Ayeka couldn't help but smile at the two best friends. Who ever thought a princess and a spaceship could become so fond of each other? Their differences didn't bother them, and if they both wanted something, they would share it. It seemed as though nothing could tear the two apart.
Sasami tried to hold back a giggle as she poked Ryo-ohki. The cabbit yelped and dropped the towel. A grin came across her face and poked the little princess back. "Take that!" She seemed to say.
Ayeka stifled the laughter that threatened to emerge. The two girls were now splashing water at each other, making a mess of everything.
"Ryo-ohki, you are soaking wet!" Sasami giggled.
Ryo-ohki outstretched her arms and looked at her water-laden fur. "Meow." She morphed into her cabbit form and then began licking herself. Ryo-ohki stopped and nudged the little princess.
Sasami picked up Ryo-ohki. "I'm pretty wet too, huh? I'll come right back and finish the dishes as soon as I get a dry pair of clothes." She put the furry creature down and skipped up to her room, humming a Juraian holiday song.
The song brought back memories to Ayeka.
She was on the planet Jurai with her sister, Sasami, and her mother, Misaki. It was before Ryoko and Kagato had started their attack.
"I just love the flower festival!" Ayeka exclaimed, taking a blue Chitva flower from a young woman handing them out to passersbys. Ayeka put the pansy-like flower in her hair and strolled over to a nearby booth. A string of flowers was draped across the top of the stall and one of Ayeka's friends was behind the counter. She looked up when she saw the princess. "Ayeka! Oh, I'm so glad you came!" The deep blue haired teen came around the counter and gave Ayeka a hug.
Ayeka smiled and put her hands on her friend's shoulders. "Kimeya, did you really think I wouldn't show?"
Kimeya laughed. "No, not really. But you don't usually see royals walking down the streets with common people." She walked back behind her booth, a look of pleasure on her smooth face. Her straight hair flowed down to her waist, where it was tied back with a purple ribbon, which matched the edging on her traditional Juraian dress. The dress was white and the material was made from a plant only found on Jurai. The bark was cut into long, thin strips and soaked until it lost its coloration. It could then be dyed to any color and used like any other kind of thread. The result was a light, silken-like cloth with a hefty price tag.
Kimeya wiped her brow and moved one of the many potted plants on the counter so she could better see Ayeka. "So, how's life as a princess been going for you?"
Ayeka furrowed her brow. "Quite boring. I have almost no freedom whatsoever. But I will soon, being that I am almost of age."
Kimeya sighed. "I don't know how you can put up with so many rules. I mean, you aren't even supposed to be walking around outside the palace without permission from your father. I guess I'm lucky being a guardian's daughter."
Ayeka fiddled with her purple hair. "Yes indeed. I suppose having royal blood can have its advantages though."
Kimeya suddenly perked up. "Yeah, like having an almost endless supply of money, your own personal ship, and first pick at the guys."
Ayeka grinned a picked a flower from on e of the pants on the counter. She spun it around, staring at it intently. "Too bad there are no half-decent ones around."
Kimeya's jaw dropped in surprise, a smirk on her face. "Oh, I'd give anything to have your position, princess! You think nothing of it! I don't think you know how much power you really have."
The princess dropped the flower to the ground. "What can I do that you can't? Besides being able to use the Bio-energy, what makes me so different from you?"
Kimeya shook her head. "I don't understand you sometimes, Ayeka."
Ayeka smiled, but her look was distanced.
"Ayeka! Come see what I won at one of the games!" Sasami called.
The princess turned to see her little sister waving to her. It was best she went over to her. Ayeka bowed to Kimeya out of habit. "My condolences. I must go now."
Kimeya held back a giggle when the princess bowed. "Good bye! Maybe I'll see you later, ok?"
Ayeka nodded and walked over to Sasami. "So what is it that you have received as a prize?"
Sasami held out her hand and revealed a silver necklace with a charm on the end. "The charm is so cute! It looks kind of like a rabbit and a cat all in one."
Ayeka froze. It couldn't be from....
"Hello there, princess." Came a voice from behind Ayeka.
Turning around, Ayeka saw that it was whom she had dreaded. Miss demon herself.
Ryoko vanished from behind the stall and reappeared in front of the two princesses. "Look at the beautiful charm necklace Sasami won, Ayeka. Don't you like it?"
Ayeka set her jaw and wouldn't talk to the woman standing in front of her. She knew Ryoko was making fun of her.
Ryoko moved next to Sasami and put her arm around the child. "She is so good at the ring toss game. All three rings, Ayeka. Would you like to give it a try? It only costs 200 Juraian for three rings."
Ayeka turned her head. "I don't want to spend my money o a game run by you, thilthy rat."
Ryoko growled and took a step over to the already fuming Ayeka. "I am no rat." The demoness said, anger in her voice. "You think I'd trick you? Your little sister won, didn't she?"
"Ryoko!" Came an excited voice.
Misaki hurriedly came over to Ryoko and gave her a hug. "Oh, how are you? Are you doing well these days?"
Ryoko struggled to breathe and had to resort to teleporting to get away.
Misaki franticly started searching for the woman. "Oh no! Where did she go? Is she ok? Ryoko! Oh... oh.... Are you over here? No, how about here? Ryoko?"
Sasami tugged on her mother's dress. "Mom, it's ok. Ryoko can do that."
Misaki came out from underneath a booth. "Oh, ok." She stood and seemingly forgot all about the whole thing. "What is that in your hand, Sasami?"
The little princess smiled. "It is a charm necklace. I got it at one of the games." She fingered the little charm. "Could you put it on, please?"
Misaki gently took the piece of jewelry and fastened it around her daughter's neck. "Oh... Sasami, you look beautiful!"
Sasami smiled and ran her fingers down the chain. "I really do like it, Mom. I am so glad Ryoko gave it to me as a prize." The little princess looked around. "I really should thank her, but I don't know where she went."
Ayeka took her sister's hand and began browsing through the booths. "Oh, we'll see her again. Don't you worry about that." Ayeka said, disgust in her voice.
As the day went on, and as the sun grew warmer, the scent of all the flowers was in the air. So strong was it, that the air was almost intoxicating.
The flower in Ayeka's hair was still bright and colorful, seemingly immune to the suns warm rays.
"Princess Ayeka, hello! Oh, and she is with that darling little Sasami." People would say as they walked by. "Look, the queen! Where are our manners? Let us bow."
As all people of higher status should do, the three smiled and nodded in acknowledgement of the curtsey paid to them. Ayeka weakly smiled to one as her eyes caught a glimpse of something darting across the orange sky. "Here's your chance to thank Ryoko, Sasami dear." She mumbled to her sister.
Sasami's eyes lit up and she scanned the crowd. She pulled on Ayeka's sleeve. "There she is sis!" Sasami ran up to the demoness and hugged her.
Ryoko smiled down at the sky blue haired girl and patted her head. "Hey Sasami, how are you? Are you having fun?"
Sasami grinned and nodded her head. "Yes, I am! I love festivals, and this is one of my favorites, right behind Summer Solstice."
Ryoko reached down and touched the necklace the little princess was wearing. "So, you like it?"
Sasami's eyes brightened. "Oh yes! Thank you so much fore giving it to me as a prize."
Curiosity filled Sasami's eyes when she saw something glint in the sunlight on Ryoko's wrist. She reached out and touched the gem as Ryoko quietly watched her. Sasami then noticed another on the opposite wrist and one near the base of her neck. "What are those, Ryoko?"
A mischievous smirk came across the demoness's face. "I'll show you."
Ayeka sighed as she watched Sasami and Ryoko talk. She wondered how Sasami could be so friendly to so many people. "I wonder where Ryoko is from and who her parents are." She swiftly pushed the thought from her mind as she saw Ryoko fly up into the air with her sister!
Ayeka ran to the spot they were standing and looked up. "Sasami! Ryoko! I demand you put her down this instant!"
Ryoko hovered in mid-air, Sasami held tight in her arms. Sasami was amazed and very excited. "Wow! This is so fun!"
Ryoko smiled evilly as she gazed down at Ayeka. "I'm just giving Sasami a little ride that's all."
Ayeka tightened her hands into fists. "RYOKO! Come down here!"
Ryoko shook her head. "No, not right now. I'm not finished showing your little sister what I can do." She winked and then darted straight up into the clouds, Sasami giggling with delight.
Ayeka stomped her foot and clenched her jaw. She could bring Ryoko down if she really wanted to, but she was afraid of hurting her sister. "Ooooooh! Ryoko takes advantage of every situation!"
Ayeka scanned the orange sky, but did not see Ryoko anywhere. "Now where did she go?"
"Watch out, Ayeka!" Sasami giggled.
The princess looked behind her to see Ryoko and Sasami on the back of a demon headed right towards her. Ayeka shrieked and dropped to the ground, as the spirit leaped over he and then skidded to a halt. Ryoko helped Sasami down and then she leapt off.
Not a sound was in the air as Ayeka slowly got up from the ground. Everyone's eyes were on the creature before them. It was 12 feet tall, and seemed to be one called from the clouds. It resembled the demon Ryoko had called at the Onsen, but this one was white in color and it was wispier. It also had a long, snake like tail that snapped back and forth. The spirit seemed excited and ready to do whatever it was told to.
Ryoko glanced at Ayeka and then at the spirit she had called. "Impressive, isn't she? I summoned her from the sky."
Ayeka rolled her eyes. "Don't tell me you can distinguish if it is a he or she."
Ryoko appeared a bit confused. "Of course I can. I roused it, didn't I?"
The demon roared and brought it's tail down hard on the ground, making it shake.
Some people gasped, and a small child could be heard whimpering.
Ryoko pointed to the beast. "You see, she agrees with me." The demoness faced the spirit. "Don't you?"
The demon growled and shook its head back and forth, a certain fire in its eyes.
Ayeka looked at Ryoko in disgust and then turned and glanced around her. The festival seemed to have come to a halt ever since the spirit came and galloped through the streets. "Now look what you have done, demon child." Ayeka motioned around her. "Everyone is too afraid to enjoy themselves!"
Ryoko's smile faded away as she glimpsed at the silent, shivering Juraians. They were obviously scared and intimidated by this creature.
Ryoko calmly waked up to the spirit and put her hand on its leg. "What are you all afraid of? It isn't going to hurt you!" She faced Sasami. "Show them there is nothing to be afraid of, princess."
Sasami scampered up to the demon and pet her back. The demon made a guttural sound and closed its eyes. The princess smiled and rubbed its back more.
Ayeka set her jaw and walked up to her sister and grabbed her by the hand. "Come here Sasami. You will not be playing with either one of these demons!"
Ryoko stepped in front of Ayeka, but the princess slapped her face and pushed her out of the way.
The beast was watching and as soon as Ayeka lashed out at Ryoko, the creature panicked. She bellowed and lumbered towards the princess. Before Ryoko could call out for the demon to stop, it raised its arm, extending the claws.
Ryoko teleported right in front of Ayeka as the spirit brought its powerful strike down upon her.
Ayeka came back from her daydream and shivered. She didn't recall much from that point. She remembered Ryoko being thrown to the side, blood everywhere. The demon had stood dumbstruck for a minute, then let out a tremendous roar that was deafening. It the disappeared.
Ayeka recalled holding her sister, and then a cloaked figure running up to the body of Ryoko. The person picked up the demoness and then vanished through the crowd.
Sasami came up to Ayeka and looked into her eyes. "Why are you still standing here, sis? Is everything ok?"
Ayeka snapped out of her daydream and blinked, as if she didn't know where she was. "Oh, no. I'm fine, thank you. I was just... thinking."
Ayeka walked into the living room, her little sister right behind her. They both sat down on the couch and Ayeka let out sigh. "Do you remember my friend Kimeya, Sasami?"
Sasami thought a moment before nodded yes. "Kimeya was the guardian's daughter, wasn't she?"
Ayeka placed her hands in her lap. "I miss her. She was always there to listen."
Sasami placed her small hand on her sister's. "Kimeya and her family had to leave. Her father, Tsunaki, was called to go with one of our senates of Jurai, so he decided to bring his family with him. Tsunaki didn't know they would never return."
Ayeka sighed and smiled at her sister. "You're right Sasami. Thank you." She leaned over and embraced Sasami. Ayeka then got up from the couch and headed down the hall and up to her room.
The rest of the day went well and not one fight happened at the dinner table, to Tenchi's relief.
As the moon rose up into the sky, Tenchi was getting ready for bed. He brushed his teeth, the moonlight shining through the bathroom window. Tenchi glanced at the moon as he splashed water on his face. It always reminded him of Ryoko. She was frequently up and about when the sun began to set, and often sat on the roof and gazed at the stars.
Tenchi chuckled to himself. He remember the one time he had gone up on the roof to visit Ryoko. It had been fun up there with her, but he didn't want her to know because she would jump all over him.
A shriek caught Tenchi's attention. It was Ayeka's, but it wasn't the usual irritated scream that she let out when bickering with the demoness. This one seemed terrified.
Tenchi ran out of the bedroom and towards where he heard the yell. He opened the front door and saw Ryoko staring at Ayeka intently, beam sword held ready.
The rest of his family and friends were on the porch, watching intently. Tenchi stared in disbelief as Ryoko swung her blade at Ayeka, who barely got out of the way.
"Why isn't anyone doing anything!?!" Tenchi exclaimed, walking towards the two women.
Washu tried to grab Tenchi, but he kept going. "Tenchi, no! Don't go near Ryoko! Something is terribly wrong!"
Tenchi stopped just a few feet from Ryoko and turned towards Washu. "Huh? What do you...." He was cut off and choked by Ryoko. She held the beam sword up to his throat.
Terror struck Tenchi as he looked into Ryoko's eyes. They were not her yellow eyes, but cast a red color instead. All three jewels could be seen glowing a deep red color, the same as her eyes.
Ryoko picked Tenchi up by his neck and tossed him to the ground. She then returned her attention to Ayeka, who was still standing in the same spot. As silent as the breeze, Ryoko darted towards the princess, beam sword raised above her head.
Ayeka put up her force field just as Ryoko brought down her blade. The princess called out for her guardians. "Kamidake! Azaka! Stop this demon!"
Azaka and Kamidake flew over from the hose and fired shots, all blocked by Ryoko. She extended her hand and blasted them, knocking them to the ground, unable to move.
Washu helped Tenchi away from the battle and checked his injuries. "I think you'll be all right. Tell me if you feel lightheaded though."
Tenchi nodded, rubbing his neck. "She is possessed... but not by a spirit."
Washu furrowed her brow. "Yes I know. What I'd like to know is how she got all three gems. Ikaroshi seems to be controlling her much better, and I think it is because Ryoko has all the jewels."
Tenchi bit his lip. "It's my fault. I didn't know Ikaroshi could control her like this." He pounded his fists to the ground. "I should have never given Ryoko all her gems!"
Washu sighed. "No one knew this would happen, Tenchi."
Tenchi watched in horror as Ryoko launched herself into the air and picked up Ayeka. The princess screamed as she was carried up into the air. Ryoko said nothing at all, but just looked at Ayeka with such hate in her eyes that it tore into her like daggers.
Ayeka tried to wiggle loose, but Ryoko's hold was too strong. The princess watched as Tenchi became further away until he was no longer visible. "Ryoko, what are you doing with me?!?"
Ryoko stopped and hovered in the air. A sneer slipped across her face that made Ayeka feel like she was in hell.
Sasami stood on the grass, a far away look on her face. Suddenly she came back to reality and whispered something almost inaudible. "The dream...."
Tenchi looked at the girl on the front lawn. "What did you say, Sasami?"
Sasami franticly ran towards Tenchi. "Tenchi, the dream! Ryoko is going to kill Ayeka! We have to do something! Ryoko is going to kill my sister!"
The boy saw that Sasami was getting hysterical, and wasn't sure what to do. "What do you mean by the dream? I... I don't understand."
The little princess tightly hugged Tenchi and sobbed into his chest. "I dreamt that Ryoko was going to... to...." Sasami tried to swallow back the tears and took a deep breath. "I dreamt that Ryoko would destroy my sis. Now it is going to come true!"
Tenchi glanced at his grandpa. He was looking up in the clear, moonlit sky. "The are awfully high up now. You cannot see them with the naked eye."
Washu abruptly pushed over to Tenchi and brought up her holotop. She hurriedly typed in some commands. "If I make haste, I may be able to create a huge cushion around the yard."
A soft glow came from around the outline of the yard and expanded slowly.
Ryoko stopped in the air and stared at Ayeka. That same sneer was still on the demoness's face. Ryoko then darted down to the earth at an incredible speed.
When Ayeka could see Tenchi once more, she felt Ryoko's grip loosening. "Don't let go!!!" Ayeka franticly cried. "Please don't let go!"
The demoness lifted Ayeka over her head and tossed her towards the ground. Ryoko floated in the air and watched the princess fall, a menacing look on her face.
Washu saw Ayeka plunge through the air, coming closer and closer to the ground. "I'm not going to make it! The shield isn't ready! I'm not going to make it!"
Sasami turned and buried her face into Tenchi's chest as Ayeka smashed into the ground. She dared not to look at what was left of her big sister.
Washu froze. That was it. She wasn't fast enough. Ayeka was dead and gone forever.
Everyone was unmoving. Sasami ran to Tenchi and began crying, but he pushed her away and ran to where Ayeka had hit the ground. When he reached the spot in the yard, he wished he hadn't looked. The princess no longer looked like anything. The earth was soaked in blood and nothing was left of her.
Tenchi felt sick to his stomach as he turned away. He started to walk towards the house when he was Ayeka's headband, undamaged. Tenchi picked it up, held it close, and began to weep for her.
Tears streaked down everybody's faces, all feeling the immense loss. Sasami clenched her fists and closed her eyes. "Tsunami... why?"
Tsunami appeared to Sasami in a vision. "I am not in control of everything that happens, but I can help sway more destruction from coming. Listen, Ikaroshi is nearby and will have Ryoko attack again. Find the man and I will help you from there."
Sasami opened her eyes and stepped off the porch, onto the grass. Ryo-ohki slowly followed behind the little princess. Sasami pet the cabbit on the head. "Ryo-ohki, see if you can find Ikaroshi."
Ryo-ohki growled at the name and hopped a few feet ahead. She stood on her hind legs and sniffed the air. "Meowr!" The cabbit bounded towards the edge of the forest, Sasami close in pursuit.
Suddenly a cloaked figure appeared in front of the two, shadows covering his complexion. He glanced up at the sky, a beam of moonlight catching his emerald eyes, making them glint brightly.
Sasami shuddered as she realized this man was Ikaroshi. She kept faith in what Tsunami told her and listened for the goddess.
Ikaroshi glared at Sasami. "I'm sorry, but I can't let you do that." He reached out and grabbed the princess.
Everyone back at the house heard Sasami scream. Tenchi, who was on the grass holding the headband belonging to Ayeka, jumped at the yell. "Oh no! Not Sasami too!" He began running towards the sound and soon found Ikaroshi holding the little princess by the collar of her outfit. A limp Ryo-ohki was nearby on the ground.
Ikaroshi looked at Tenchi and smiled. "If it isn't Tenchi. The one who always tries to be the hero."
The rest of Tenchi's family and friends were right behind Tenchi and arrived soon after he did. Yosho placed a hand on Tenchi's shoulder. "Keep faith and trust in your powers. They will not fail if you understand how to use them."
Tenchi nodded and brought out Tenchi-ken. "Let Sasami go!" He said sternly to Ikaroshi.
The man looked down at the little girl gasping for air and released his grip, letting her fall to the ground. Ikaroshi placed one hand under his cloak. "Ryoko! Come here." Ryoko was at his side immediately and awaited orders.
Tenchi looked Ryoko up and down, a deep sorrow in his heart. "Ryoko! Snap out of it! Please!"
Ikaroshi laughed at the boy's effort. "That will not work, Tenchi. She is completely under my control. You see, the stone was never broken. The one that your deceased princess broke was only half as powerful as the genuine one. In other words, Ayeka destroyed a fake."
Sasami crawled away from Ikaroshi and went over to Ryo-ohki, who was just coming to. The cabbit opened her eyes and shook her head. "Meow?" She gazed at Ikaroshi and Ryoko, who were standing on the grass.
"I'll have to thank you, Tenchi." Ikaroshi began. "Thank you for giving Ryoko the other two gems. It would have been much harder to take them from you and that sword of yours."
Tenchi appeared confused. "What do you mean? Why does it matter if Ryoko has them or not?"
Ikaroshi shook his head. "Don't play dumb with me. I am aware both you and Washu knew the gems had something to do with my control over Ryoko." He pulled the hood of his cloak down off his head. "Thanks to you, Tenchi, I can now use the genuine stone. It would not work unless Ryoko had all three jewels."
Tenchi clenched his fists. "Shut up!"
Ikaroshi put on a fake surprised look on. "Getting a bit angry aren't we? Don't worry, I'll give you something to let your anger out on." He nodded his head and Ryoko lunged at Tenchi.
Tenchi dropped his sword as Ryoko body slammed him. She quickly flipped him over on his stomach and grabbed his arms. Tenchi was still holding onto Ayeka's headband and did not let go of it even as Ryoko twisted his arms.
Mihoshi watched Tenchi grimace from the pain. She could not stand watching it and took out her gun. Mihoshi pointed towards Ryoko, but Washu's hand moved the gun away. "You can't shoot my daughter.... I tried so hard to raise her and take care of her."
Mihoshi's lip quivered. "But she is hurting Tenchi! I can't just watch Tenchi suffer like that...."
Washu wiped a tear from her eye. "Only shoot if she is going to kill him. Understand?" Washu's heart nearly collapsed from saying the words.
Mihoshi put her gun back in her belt but kept one hand on it just in case.
Ikaroshi approached Tenchi. "I see you have not improved much since Kagato. Why, you don't even have the courage to fight back against this woman." He made a signal with his eyes to Ryoko and she twisted his arms hard.
Tenchi cried out and closed his eyes. It was amazing his arms hadn't dislocated yet. He saw that he could kick Ryoko off of him, but could not bring himself to do so. Tenchi had just lost one that he loved and didn't want to lose another, though kicking her would barely phase the demoness.
Ikaroshi looked disgustedly at Tenchi. "Fool! Your arms are going to come off in a minute if you don't fight back!"
Ryoko jammed her elbow a few inches below Tenchi's shoulder, breaking his arm.
Tenchi could not stand the pain any longer and kicked Ryoko hard. She let go, but seemed as though she never felt the blow
Mihoshi swiftly came over to Tenchi and pulled him away from Ryoko. "Tenchi, are you ok?" She reached over to check his arm when she suddenly found a purple beam sword in front of her. "Ohhhh...." Mihoshi slowly moved her gaze upwards and saw Ikaroshi standing there, a slightly annoyed look on his face. "Leave Tenchi alone." He moved the blade closer to the Galaxy Police officer, who instantly recoiled back.
Tenchi grabbed his arm and winced as Ikaroshi turned his attention back to him. "Stupid boy." Ikaroshi said, walking over to him. He put his foot on Tenchi and moved him side to side. "Stupid and weak."
Tenchi rolled out from under the man's foot and grabbed Tenchi-ken. He stood up and slid Ayeka's headband up on his injured arm, which hung limply at his side.
Ikaroshi looked at Tenchi with surprise. "You would dare fight your mistress and me with an injury like yours? What if you seriously maul Ryoko just because you could not easily maneuver the sword? I know you do not wish to hurt her."
Tenchi ignited Tenchi-ken and stared at Ikaroshi, a certain look of hatred in his eyes. Again, Ryoko was taken from him, and this time, Ryoko may never be her own self again.
Sasami was observing everything that was going on, when she heard Tsunami's voice. "Go to Funaho-ki." Sasami glimpsed at Ikaroshi and saw that he was too engrossed in mocking and vexing Tenchi to notice her. She got up and ran into the forest, heading towards the tree. Little did she know, something was following her.
When the young princess reached the path that led over the water to Funaho-ki, she stopped and took a deep breath. As she approached the first stepping stone, a breeze kicked up and started blowing through the forest. Sasami paid no attention to it and hopped across to the Juraian tree. Her hand moved to touch the tree and a rainbow colored light came off the hand of the princess and into the tree.
Sasami firmly placed her hand on the bark and softly repeated words taught to her when she was young. "I come upon you, o' guardian. Help my people, enter our souls. To this I pray, give us the wisdom. We humbly ask your service in this dark hour. Bring to us protection forevermore and always, o' tree of living flesh. Produce forth... produce forth...."The little princess searched her mind for the words but she could not remember the rest. Without the prayer, the tree may not respond. Suddenly, everything just seemed to fall apart and Sasami began to cry. She slumped to the ground and wept into her hands, whispering her dead sister's name. "Ayeka... Oh, Ayeka...."
The breeze gently flowing through the forest turned into a wind and kept growing stronger. The sky clouded over and it grew very dark, the moon almost invisible behind the cloud cover. An eerie blackness was around everything and it seemed as though you could touch it.
Sasami was petrified as she heard a branch crack behind her and Funaho-ki. A bush rustled and she closed her eyes and hugged her knees.
The wind began whipping wildly through the trees and then a pounding on the ground started. The beating continued as the wind blew in hard gusts.
Sasami dared to open her eyes and saw before her a massive beast obviously a spirit that Ryoko called to follow the princess. Sasami shook in terror as she studied the creature. It was about 12 feet tall, and seemed to be a demon summoned from the clouds. In fact, it very much resembled the one Ryoko called at the Onsen. Though this one was white in color and wispier. It also had a long, snake-like tail that was pounding on the ground in a somewhat excited manner....
Sasami stopped shivering and stood erect. "You are that spirit Ryoko called at the 'Flower Festival', aren't you?"
The demon shook his head side to side and made a gurgling noise. It then gently nuzzled the princess, being careful not to knock her over.
Sasami sighed in relief and pet the spirit's head. "I am so afraid. My sister is... is... not hear, Ryoko is not in control of her own mind anymore, I don't remember the ancient words to communicate to the Juraian trees, and Tenchi is going to die if I don't get some help!" She crouched down and looked at her reflection in the water. Sasami could barely make it out because thick, black clouds covered the moon.
As she gazed into the water, her reflection faded out and was replaced by Tsunami's. Sasami gasped in surprise and stood up, moving back to the demon near her, never taking her eyes off the reflection.
The area around the lake and Juraian tree was cleansed of the black fog and the wind died down completely.
The spirit barked and bowed its head before the water. Sasami stepped away from the creature and glanced at the lake. The little princess had no reflection at all now. "What's happening?"