A/N Tenchi Muyo! is owned by AIC and Pioneer and not by me. (ending dry and dull disclaimer)
The ideas in this story are mine though and if you'd like to use or borrow them, contact me first at ring_princess@hotmail.com or ring_princess2001@yahoo.com
Note: What Should Have Been has no cooresponding timeline in the Tenchi Verse. This story was started long before I cared for such things, so please keep that in mind as you read.
What Should Have Been
Chapter One B:
A Leave of Absence: A Beginning
By RingPrincess
Tenchi sighed as he walked home. The trees were green and the day was beautiful and somehow it was not sinking in. he hit the steps of the shrine and paused. He knew Ryoko would be at the top. That's were she always waited excitement filled him.
He forgot his worries for the time being and bounded up the steps. At the top of the steps she stood as if she was the empress of Jurai. He sighed and came up the rest of the way.
He stood there in front of her and couldn't help but tease.
"Permission to kiss the space pirate?"
She gave him a highly regal gaze as if considering the request.
"Permission granted." She said just as regally.
He dropped his bag and put his hands on her hips and then kissed her. Her hands began to go through his hair and finally settled around his neck. He could feel the gem on her left hand grow warm.
He didn't want to break this kiss, it felt so good. But they came up for lack of air. He looked down at her and wondered how he had got so lucky.
"You were worried for a moment down there Tenchi. What's wrong?" She said as she rested her head against his chest.
He blinked in confusion.
"How did you know?" He asked a bit shocked.
She giggled. "You used power to enter my mind last night, and you forgot to seal the path off after you left."
Tenchi digested this, and then shrugged. Not much could surprise him anymore.
"I beat Kalith today during Kendo using moves that I didn't even know at first, then I realized I was using Jurai power and decided that maybe sparring today was not a good idea."
"You beat Kalith, who's Kalith?"
"Oh, just the best kendo student in the school."
"It was inevitable you know, you beating him. You are the bearer of the light hawk wings."
"I wasn't thinking it was inevitable, I was thinking why me? Don't I have enough trouble? We should talk to Washu and grandpa after dinner."
She didn't say anything for awhile. They stood there in the sun, arms around each other, savoring the moment. Ryoko broke the silence.
"So are you going to close off the path between our minds?"
"No, I think it will be easier this way. That way we can talk to each other without others knowing and it will be easier if you have another dream to help you."
She snuggled up against him. "Good, cause I didn't want you too."
"I love you Ryoko."
She sighed contentedly.
::I love you Tenchi.:: he heard her softly say in his mind.
::Hmm, does this mean we can even talk as we kiss.:: He said as he suited actions to words, tipping her head up and kissing her once more.
After it was finished she pushed him away laughing.
"We won't get anywhere standing around here for the rest of the day!"
She began to sashay up the walk.
Tenchi picked his bag back up and followed her towards the house admiring her ankles. She was barefooted and wearing the skirt that looked as if it was made of leaves. He smiled to himself and hurried to catch up with his gorgeous space pirate, who even had beautiful ankles.
Ryoko just snorted and grinned back at him as his arm went around her waist and they walked towards the house arm in arm.
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Washu sat on her pillow and looked across at Tenchi and Ryoko.
"Well, what do you want? I have a big project going on and can only spare so much time."
Lord Katsuhito sipped the tea that Ryoko had brought in with them.
Ryoko decided to speak up.
"Mom, Tenchi was able to beat the best kendo student in school today and he did so with Jurai power. The funny thing is he says he didn't summon it or anything."
Tenchi nodded and mentally thanked her.
::It was nothing lover.::
Washu looked between them for a moment and grinned.
"I would think the solution to this problem exceedingly obvious."
Tenchi raised his eyebrows and leaned forward putting his elbows on his knees.
"Then tell us."
"You've made your choice haven't you?"
Tenchi and Ryoko blinked and then nodded.
"It's not as if we were trying to keep it a secret or anything." Ryoko mumbled.
"Well, then that is the answer. How did you feel today, Tenchi any different than normal?"
Tenchi shrugged for a moment, and thought about it. It seemed as if he had made just that observation that morning. He looked back at Washu.
"Calmer I think, and more relaxed than usual. Like I had a great weight lifted off my shoulders."
"That's what I thought. Because you are calm, your power can flow easier. It no longer has to get through the static of an indecisive mind."
Katsuhito just nodded and sipped his tea.
"So all that I had to do was make a choice and I got an increased use in power?" Tenchi exclaimed, not quite believing.
Katsuhito put his cup down.
"Yes Tenchi, that is all, of course, the decision also affected the way the power showed itself."
"What do you mean?" Ryoko was curious.
"It seems that he has had an increase of his fighting abilities and a slight personality change, Ryoko, but then so have you. You have lost your emotional walls and he has lost his shyness around girls."
"In other words," Washu piped up, "his hormones have leveled out."
Tenchi flushed a bit. Ryoko bit back a snide comment aimed at her mother.
"I would suggest that you keep your relationship distant from your father, Tenchi. I love my son-in-law, but sometimes keeping things from him is for the best." Grandpa intoned.
"You have something else to tell them, too." Washu looked slyly at Katsuhito. He grimaced.
"Yes, I do. Tenchi when you give Ryoko back her gems. I know you will, that is in you nature to do so. She will be able to call her own light-hawk wings. Both of you must train to use them and use them well."
"Huh, so I'm now his girlfriend and sparring partner." Ryoko commented.
Tenchi grinned. "I can handle that." He reached across and clasped her hand in his.
"You two are now the strongest beings on this planet. Learn to use that power well and remember with power comes responsibility." Katsuhito stood up after this little speech. "It's late and I am off the bed. I will see you two in the morning. Pleasant projects Little Washu." He bowed to them and left.
Ryoko and Tenchi stood up to go also. "Good night Little Washu." Tenchi yawned.
"You can call me mom Tenchi. After all you did choose my daughter."
Tenchi blinked and Ryoko started to laugh.
"Don't push your luck Mom." She got out between giggles. She grasped
Tenchi's hand and led him out the door laughing all the way.
"Children," Washu mused as the crab jangled as the door shut. Then she looked down at herself and laughed. Remembering for now she was a child too.
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-Tuesday-
Tuesday was just as good as Monday. His friends couldn't believe the change to him. Chio was the one who was having the most trouble. Tenchi gave a small mental snort. Chio wasn't the only one, Kalith was becoming almost unbearable. He had never really been friends with him, it was more of a rivalry, but really, the guy couldn't accept the fact he had been beat.
"Hey, Masaki, where's your girl? Maybe she could save you." Kalith sneered.
Tenchi looked up, he had five minutes to get to Kendo class, and did not need Kalith needling him. Inexplicably Tenchi smiled.
"Save me from what Kalith?"
"Me."
A vision with cyan hair was standing behind Kalith, energy sword raised. Well, actually she floated but with Ryoko was there a difference?
::He doesn't know what he is talking about love. Leave him be.:: Tenchi soothed.
::He threatened you, MY Tenchi.:: Her mental voice was indignant. Tenchi gave a mental shrug.
"Save me from you, Kalith, I think I can handle myself well enough." Tenchi gave a sharp look over Kalith's shoulder. ::Ryoko, get those two feet on the ground before someone sees you! And extinguish that sword.::
"Spoil sport." She pouted, Tenchi snorted.
Kalith whirled around, and saw the most beautiful girl he had seen anywhere. She had spiky cyan hair with catlike amber eyes and was just a few inches shorter than he was.
"Well hello." He charmed changing moods faster than lightning.
Ryoko gave him a look like she would give a rat.
"Amateur, I could a killed you." Her voice dripped with contempt. Kalith heard snickering behind him. "In fact, I should a, except that Tenchi pled your case and said you have no clue what goes on the world. So, until he says differently, you, greenhorn, are safe." Her eyes snapped. The snicker was brought under slow control.
"Kalith, meet my girlfriend, the infamous Ryoko." Tenchi grinned.
Ryoko gave her best predator smile that showed all her fangs. Kalith took a step back. What the? Fangs, the eyes he could deal with, but fangs.
She grinned, "I don't suck blood if that's what you're thinking."
"Class guys," Tenchi reminded gently.
Kalith gave Tenchi a spooked look and headed in the direction of class, a few of his friends dragging behind him.
Ryoko sighed. They hadn't even stayed for the fun part. Tenchi came up and wrapped his arm around her and headed off in the same direction as Kalith.
When Tenchi entered the room all the students stopped what they were doing to stare, it was obvious that Kalith had had a few minutes to fill them all in.
::Maybe you shouldn't have shown him you fangs Ryoko.::
::He deserved the scare, he's a coward.::
::That's not for us to judge.::
::If he met Kagoto, he would have wet his pants and ran the other direction. He is just that type, especially if he was scared of my fangs. Really, Tenchi, you are not scared of them.::
::Well I'm different.::
::Hey, you even like them.::
Tenchi just gave her a inscrutable glare, she glared back just as fiercely. The master saved them from anymore of an argument.
::This isn't over.:: Tenchi promised solemnly.
::I wouldn't dream of it lover.::
Tenchi took the time to bow to the master. Ryoko just nodded her head at him. Getting her to bow would just be too much. The kendo master gazed at her strangely.
"Master," Tenchi began. Ryoko winced. Tenchi sighed and began again. "Sir, may we talk to you in your office?"
"Of course Mr. Masaki and. . ." He looked questionably at Ryoko.
"Ms. Ryoko Hakubi, I'm Tenchi's girlfriend and current sparring partner."
The master just raised his eyebrows, both of them sighed. The master smiled as if he had reached a conclusion and beckoned them towards his office.
His assistants called the class to order and training began again. The door shut behind the departing trio.
"I take it you two are much closer than boyfriend/girlfriend." The master smiled as they sat on cushions surrounding a low table.
Ryoko smiled like the cat she resembled and Tenchi just cleared his throat.
The master went on.
"I'm actually surprised you hadn't beat Kalith before this Tenchi, you see I know your grandfather and he is a hard taskmaster. I also see some of his rather distinctive fighting style when you fight."
"Your wondering why it took so long Mr. Yoru." Tenchi guessed.
"I admit that I am the slightest bit curious."
"Women troubles," Ryoko put forth.
"Thank you, love, you can always be called upon to be short sweet and to the point." Tenchi sighed.
"Well, it is true." Ryoko defended.
"Is it?" Mr. Yoru raised an eyebrow.
Tenchi nodded glumly. "Strange, to be held back by such a simple problem, but then there is no such thing as a simple problem, my grandfather would say."
"I admire your grandfather. Katsuhito has much wisdom and much knowledge."
Mr. Yoru nodded.
"Poor Tenchi," Ryoko couldn't help but tease. "He has six women in the house, two after him all the time. . ."
Tenchi snorted again. "Praise Kami that that craziness is over for a few months."
"...one constantly trying to experiment on him, the next a perpetual ditz, the ditz's partner who has no interest whatsoever..."
"My sanity in an insane world," Tenchi lamented looking at the ceiling.
". and the last the sweetest little girl."
Mr. Yoru looked at him in amazement.
"What makes you so desirable Tenchi?" He had to ask with raised eyebrows.
Tenchi just groaned and shook his head.
"If he knew, or we knew, we would tell you." Ryoko intoned, the most serious she had been during the whole meeting. Then she broke out in a smile again. "Actually I do know, but it is quite a long list and would take time."
"Then what is the essence of it Ms. Hakubi? I am very curious, a man with five women after him and he has no idea why? Amazing."
Ryoko sobered for a minute, in deep thought. What was it about Tenchi...? She looked around for inspiration and the looked back at Yoru.
"Well, two distinctive reasons beyond his looks." Tenchi snorted. "One, he is kind, sometimes too kind. He can see the good in almost anything. Two, he treats everybody the same. It doesn't matter to him whether you were gutter trash or royalty. Tenchi treats you with respect and as a person. That is part of the reason why he had five women after him and why I love him." Ryoko smiled, and tears glistened in her eyes.
Mr. Yoru smiled gently.
"You are a lucky man to have a girl like her, Tenchi Masaki. I must remember that approach, though. Kindness and respect, what every person craves and needs."
Tenchi had been tense throughout Ryoko's speech, he visibly relaxed. He cracked a weak smile.
"Easy enough for you to say sir, you didn't have to live through it." Mr. Yoru grinned.
"That I didn't Tenchi. However, now that you have overcome this 'problem', what is it that you have come to talk to me about?"
Ryoko clasped her hands on her lap. ::May I begin, Tenchi?::
::Of course.::
"What we need to know Mr. Yoru is whether or not you have taught everything you know to Kalith. If you have, I must say that he is a very shoddy student or else you are a bad taskmaster. Not that I mean any disrespect."
Yoru sighed and shook his head.
"None is taken Ms. Hakubi. Please call me Yoru that goes for you as well Tenchi."
Both of them nodded. Yoru closed his eyes.
"No, I have not taught Kalith all I know. He has not the discipline needed to complete the training. However he is the best I have been able to train and at times I am ashamed of him."
Ryoko perked up at this. "I am not surprised. I stood right behind him with Tenchi looking straight at me and he didn't notice anything until I said something. Shoddy and arrogant, this may surprise you Yoru, but killing was my business at one time and he would be what is called an easy mark."
Yoru looked at her with mild amusement, "Then what would I be Ms. Hakubi?"
Ryoko snorted. "If you have had half the training Katsuhito had you are definitely not an easy mark. Please call me Ryoko."
"Very well Ryoko."
"Yoru," Tenchi faltered over the name, but managed to go on. "I must ask if you would be willing to teach the both of us past what you have taught Kalith?"
Yoru looked at them with surprise.
"You make it sound as if someone is after your head."
Ryoko and Tenchi looked at each other, shrugged and turned back to Yoru.
"Well, someone usually is." Ryoko said grimly. "And I for one would prefer to be ready. We will be willing to pay what we can of course."
Yoru waved that aside. "Don't worry about it. I am willing to do anything for the children of Katsuhito."
"You understand that we will be blending my grandfather's techniques with yours." Tenchi said softly.
Yoru nodded.
Ryoko sighed in contentment.
::I'm glad he agreed. I hate to sound morbid, but I do expect a fight when Ayeka gets back and well there is so much unresolved with the other house members...::
Tenchi got up.
"We shouldn't keep you from your class Yoru." He bowed and turned to give Ryoko a hand up. She promptly batted it away and got up on her own. She nodded at Yoru.
"It was pleasant visiting with you Tenchi and Ryoko. I shall expect you tomorrow, same time, same place." Yoru replied.
"Of course," Tenchi bowed again. Ryoko smiled and nodded. They showed themselves out. Yoru watched them go with this odd smile on his face.
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The kendo class once again came to a stop when the two of them stepped out of Yoru's office. Tenchi looked up at the ceiling and suppressed the instinct to roll his eyes. Ryoko did roll hers.
She walked right down the middle of the room and stood in the center and said in her best impression of Ayeka. "Proceed."
This time Tenchi did roll his eyes.
Ryoko was enjoying herself. "It is as if you had never seen a girl before." She giggled. "Really, I haven't got started. Isn't that right Tenchi?" She called over her shoulder.
He just walked up to her and then past her, got half way to the door from his position and turned.
"If this is how they react to you in normal clothes, I wonder how they will react when you are really whiled up."
Ryoko threw her head back and laughed. Tenchi looked apologetic.
"Get used to her, she doesn't have many manners."
Ryoko stopped laughing.
"When we get home you are so going to get it." She hissed.
Tenchi's eyes danced.
"So what are you going to do, so I may be prepared?"
The rest of the class watched this byplay in fascination.
She walked up to him and put her arm around his.
"I'll decide when we get there."
Tenchi rolled his eyes and began walking with her to the door. Then caught the images in her mind. He glared at her. She simply smiled sweetly.
"Yes, my Tenchi."
"Oh, never mind."
They walked out the door together.
"See ya tomorrow." Ryoko called back over her shoulder.
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-later that evening-
Tenchi stopped hoeing for a moment and leaned against the implement. He thought about the day and smiled wryly, no his class was definitely not ready for the five thousand year old space pirate.
For a moment he wondered if this is what it would have been like if Ayeka had never shown up. Him and Ryoko, together, forever, ach, how cliché could you get. He smiled, however at the moment he wouldn't have it any other way.
He went back to pondering a problem that had been bugging him. How to give Ryoko her gems back? He loved her and wanted this gift from him to her to be special. He sighed maybe for once he would just go with the flow and decide when the moment came. Yes, that sounded real good, why plan your life to the last detail, this part he meant to savor and let come.
::Beloved. . .:: came the soft voice of his love.
::Yes dear.::
::Dinner is ready. I think you have done enough in those fields today.::
::I wholeheartedly agree. So what is for dinner anyway?::
::A surprise.:: Ryoko's laugh tinkled in his mind.
::I'll be inside in a few moments.:: He sent her a ghost kiss that made Ryoko smile.
Ryoko smile turned to a small frown, Tenchi had been worried about something before she had called him for dinner. The pirate didn't have much time to think about it before Tenchi arrived at the house, a basket in his hands by force of habit and an excited cabbit jumping along behind him.
Ryoko took the basket from his arms and gave him a quick kiss before she headed over to the fridge and dumped the carrots in. Ryo-ohki tried to dive in after them but was grabbed by the scruff of her neck by a prepared Ryoko.
By the time she turned, shaking Ryo-ohki slightly, Tenchi had already sat down at the table and dished out food for the both of them.
Ryoko stopped and considered the table, two place settings and a small plate for Ryo-ohki. Music played softly in the background, and light drifted in through the windows in streams created by floating dust motes. Was this what it was like to be married?
"I wouldn't know." Tenchi murmured. His eyes caught hers and stayed. "I was too young to remember much about how my mom and dad acted after she died."
"You were listening to my thoughts." Ryoko accused, dropping Ryo-ohki.
Tenchi gave a lopsided grin and stuck his tongue out at her, she teleported behind him and glomped him squeezing him half to death.
"I am going to keep this up until you apologize, Tenchi Masaski." She breathed into his ear.
He did something better, somehow, she wasn't sure how, his head turned and he began to kiss her deeply. Ryoko's arms loosened and she settled into his lap returning the kiss with as much eagerness.
The kiss broke and Ryoko rested her head on his chest. This was perfect, just perfect.
"Not quite." He breathed into her ear, his lips brushed her ear, he placed gentle kisses down her jaw line, her breathe became ragged.
"Tenchi," she gasped, "don't tease me like this." His lips regained hers after that sentence and silence reigned in the kitchen.
Ryoko broke the kiss and mock glared at him.
"Tenchi the food will get cold."
"Then don't tempt me with your beauty Ryoko." His voice was low and fervent.
Ryoko blushed slightly and teleported to the other side of the table and began to eat distractedly. Her head came up after a few minutes.
"Do you really think that, Tenchi?"
"Your beautiful, Ryoko." He replied, thinking that was what she meant.
"No, that you want to spend the rest of your life with me."
Tenchi blinked at her for a few seconds.
"Now who was listening." he accused back.
She picked up her water to throw at him. "Answer the question, bub."
"Yes, yes I do."
Ryoko nodded.
::Good, 'cause I want to do be with you too.::
Tenchi had half a chopstick full of food to his mouth when she made this comment and the romantic mood of the evening ended when Ryoko burst out laughing at the look on his face.
------
-Wednesday-
Tenchi was beginning to believe that life was just more fun with Ryoko as your girlfriend. For one, no one in school knew what to do with her. Not the teachers, not the principles, and definitely not the students.
Ryoko leaned against Tenchi during lunch and chit chatted with the few girls who sat with them (they watched the same soap operas). Tenchi was focused on eating lunch and Ryoko had informed him this morning that she wasn't eating that day. Tenchi had shrugged and told her that that was her prerogative, and then she had informed him she was going to school with him. He had tried to talk her out of it, but she was stubborn.
"Something to say, Kalith?" Ryoko said sweetly, without turning around.
Kalith jumped, she couldn't of known he was there.
::Don't spook him to bad Ryoko.:: Tenchi chided.
::He deserves it.:: "Cat got your tongue?" she purred.
Tenchi shook his head in defeat, sometimes he knew that whatever happened happened.
::Promise not to hurt him.::
::How can you think so little of me?::
"Sit down Kalith, how have you been?" Tenchi offered, ignoring the look Chio and Amagasaki where giving him.
"Trying to make up for your girlfriends rudeness, Masaski?" Kalith spat.
::Sometimes that boy wouldn't know kindness if it was handed to him on a platter, the last time someone did that to me, well, suffice to say it wasn't very pretty.:: Ryoko said exasperated.
"Somehow, I believe you." Tenchi muttered.
::Really, what did he expect me to say? Hi, how are you, your handsome. Give me a break.::
Tenchi began to try to studiously ignore Ryoko's telepathic comments, it was difficult though.
"I mean, she has no manners." Kalith had gone on without hearing Tenchi's comment, which was good, for it had been for Ryoko's ears only.
Tenchi grinned back at Kalith, and nodded. "I think it's part of her charm, she says what she means. No more, no less."
"I'll take that as a compliment, Thank you." Ryoko chirped, winking at Kalith, who was a bit taken aback by her boldness.
Ryoko stole some food from Tenchi's plate and ate it before he could grab it back.
She stood up, and faced Kalith, an odd look on her face.
"I'm afraid we got off to a bad start Kalith. Shall we start over?"
She held out her hand, and promptly Kalith gave her a look that he would give dirt and turned and stalked away.
Ryoko sighed.
"You can't say you didn't try Ryoko." Chio commented. "Kalith is rolling in dough and thinks everybody should kiss his the ground he walks on because of it. He's never been easy to get along with."
"Unfortunately I know quite a few people like that Chio, and I treat them the same way I treat everybody else."
"Terribly," Tenchi muttered.
Ryoko threw him a dirty glance. "The same way they treat me, thank you very much Mr. I treat everybody kindly Masaki."
"Some people may disagree with you, Ms. I don't give a care Hakubi."
The look they share could only be loving and the others at the table restrained from either rolling their eyes or wishing that they had a love like that.
--
Kendo came around again and Master Yoru was looking forward to this one for his was the first class where he would exclusively teach Tenchi and Ryoko. At last, a student that was worth the effort to train in the methods that had been passed down to him. Ryoko was a unknown however. How much did she know?
Ryoko stood with her back against the wall and her eyes on the door, very much like a cornered animal. She was nervous, to fight without her powers was going to be difficult and she almost wished she had asked Katsuhito to train her instead. She took a few deep breathes to calm herself and watched out of the corner of her eye as Yoru began to warm up. How much did this old man really know?
Yoru turned and was a bit surprised to see Ryoko there considering that the Kendo class didn't start until next period.
Ryoko took a deep breathe and calmed her nerves.
"Mr. Yoru, I am afraid that I have never been taught any traditional martial arts." She began.
He winced.
She held up a hand to stop him from speaking and took a step away from the wall.
"That doesn't mean I'm not any good, it just means that my style varies extremely, and in fact I am not used to fighting under these conditions at all."
For a moment Yoru wondered what she meant by 'these conditions.'
She didn't give him much time to wonder as she quickly went on.
"My former master," she spat the word, and Yoru winced. "Wasn't extremely kind, however he did know what he was talking about, usually. I have been taught so many styles that remembering anything conclusively is a pain in the neck."
"I will try to understand, Ms. Hakubi." Yoru nodded at her.
"If you like you can gauge how good I am Mr. Yoru. I hope you are not disappointed."
"Since we have time, I think that might be a good idea."
Ryoko nodded and found a bokken that was leaning against a wall. She weighed its balance carefully and smiled at the practice sword's craftsmanship.
While it was traditional to bow, Yoru was of the old school that one doesn't bow in a fight so why bow at all. So he simply attacked, without word or sound.
Ryoko spun, bringing her own sword up in that unorthodox grip he'd often seen Tenchi use. *CLACK!* The swords shivered with the force of contact.
Yoru kept up the offensive, testing and probing Ryoko's defenses, however this only lasted a few moments before she turned the tables on him.
Yoru noticed that her offense was much stronger than her defense and that was her primary weakness. However, it was frustrating, because of her unorthodox moves he could not see what she was going to do next and the kata she was using was beyond him.
He was reacting to what she did and that in his mind was a serious problem, not for her but for him. He desperately switched back to the offense to find himself put immediately back in the defensive position. The dratted thing was she had started to use the defensive moves he was using against her to the correct effect.
Ryoko's sword slipped past his guard and Yoru conceded the fight.
"Ms. Hakubi, you are light-years beyond me."
To his surprise Ryoko flushed slightly at the statement. "Thank you, no one has ever told me that before."
"I was going to say that your defense was a bit weak, but it seemed to pick up after we started going."
"HE was always of the philosophy that if you went on the defensive that was the first step towards losing." Ryoko's voice was flat and Yoru wondered at the emphasis she put on the pronoun.
"Who was your former master, Ryoko? I might know him." Yoru asked out of curiosity.
Ryoko just gave a sharp and bitter laugh.
"I doubt, Yoru, that you knew Kagato. To him, you would have been mere trash. Not worthy to even walk on, and he'd kill you without even blinking. Praise Tsunami he is dead."
Yoru didn't know what to say and so said nothing.
The students began to file in.
--
Tenchi walked arm and arm down the street after school as they headed towards the bus stop.
"Do you think that was productive?" Tenchi asked pensively.
Ryoko looked up at him for a moment.
"For a while it will be, then we are on our own."
Tenchi grunt was non-committal.
"Oh, true, we have to get through your grandfather's training before that, however, if this keeps up. Who knows?" Ryoko shrugged.
Tenchi stood aside and let her get on the bus before him. They took the last empty seat and paid little attention to the scenery going by, silence enfolded them.
Tenchi sighed and entwined his fingers with hers. In some ways this was so confusing, the abilities, the power the changes. In other ways he could feel life becoming more peaceful like now.
::I love you, Ryoko.::
Ryoko smiled and leaned her head on his chest.
::And I you Tenchi::
The rest of the bus ride was a peaceful one.
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END CHAPTER!
Okay, from here you need to leave and go read the Engagement... and remember between now and the Engagement and the NEXT Chapter TWO (2) months have gone by. Those will be addressed later.
Questions and comments should be sent to one of the emails below! Check out my websites... and tell me what you think please.
RingPrincess
ring_princess@hotmail.com
ring_princess2001@yahoo.com
http://www.angelfire.com/ny5/ringprincess/index.html
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/tenchimuyofanfiction/
http://www.thetenchireviewer.net
The ideas in this story are mine though and if you'd like to use or borrow them, contact me first at ring_princess@hotmail.com or ring_princess2001@yahoo.com
Note: What Should Have Been has no cooresponding timeline in the Tenchi Verse. This story was started long before I cared for such things, so please keep that in mind as you read.
What Should Have Been
Chapter One B:
A Leave of Absence: A Beginning
By RingPrincess
Tenchi sighed as he walked home. The trees were green and the day was beautiful and somehow it was not sinking in. he hit the steps of the shrine and paused. He knew Ryoko would be at the top. That's were she always waited excitement filled him.
He forgot his worries for the time being and bounded up the steps. At the top of the steps she stood as if she was the empress of Jurai. He sighed and came up the rest of the way.
He stood there in front of her and couldn't help but tease.
"Permission to kiss the space pirate?"
She gave him a highly regal gaze as if considering the request.
"Permission granted." She said just as regally.
He dropped his bag and put his hands on her hips and then kissed her. Her hands began to go through his hair and finally settled around his neck. He could feel the gem on her left hand grow warm.
He didn't want to break this kiss, it felt so good. But they came up for lack of air. He looked down at her and wondered how he had got so lucky.
"You were worried for a moment down there Tenchi. What's wrong?" She said as she rested her head against his chest.
He blinked in confusion.
"How did you know?" He asked a bit shocked.
She giggled. "You used power to enter my mind last night, and you forgot to seal the path off after you left."
Tenchi digested this, and then shrugged. Not much could surprise him anymore.
"I beat Kalith today during Kendo using moves that I didn't even know at first, then I realized I was using Jurai power and decided that maybe sparring today was not a good idea."
"You beat Kalith, who's Kalith?"
"Oh, just the best kendo student in the school."
"It was inevitable you know, you beating him. You are the bearer of the light hawk wings."
"I wasn't thinking it was inevitable, I was thinking why me? Don't I have enough trouble? We should talk to Washu and grandpa after dinner."
She didn't say anything for awhile. They stood there in the sun, arms around each other, savoring the moment. Ryoko broke the silence.
"So are you going to close off the path between our minds?"
"No, I think it will be easier this way. That way we can talk to each other without others knowing and it will be easier if you have another dream to help you."
She snuggled up against him. "Good, cause I didn't want you too."
"I love you Ryoko."
She sighed contentedly.
::I love you Tenchi.:: he heard her softly say in his mind.
::Hmm, does this mean we can even talk as we kiss.:: He said as he suited actions to words, tipping her head up and kissing her once more.
After it was finished she pushed him away laughing.
"We won't get anywhere standing around here for the rest of the day!"
She began to sashay up the walk.
Tenchi picked his bag back up and followed her towards the house admiring her ankles. She was barefooted and wearing the skirt that looked as if it was made of leaves. He smiled to himself and hurried to catch up with his gorgeous space pirate, who even had beautiful ankles.
Ryoko just snorted and grinned back at him as his arm went around her waist and they walked towards the house arm in arm.
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Washu sat on her pillow and looked across at Tenchi and Ryoko.
"Well, what do you want? I have a big project going on and can only spare so much time."
Lord Katsuhito sipped the tea that Ryoko had brought in with them.
Ryoko decided to speak up.
"Mom, Tenchi was able to beat the best kendo student in school today and he did so with Jurai power. The funny thing is he says he didn't summon it or anything."
Tenchi nodded and mentally thanked her.
::It was nothing lover.::
Washu looked between them for a moment and grinned.
"I would think the solution to this problem exceedingly obvious."
Tenchi raised his eyebrows and leaned forward putting his elbows on his knees.
"Then tell us."
"You've made your choice haven't you?"
Tenchi and Ryoko blinked and then nodded.
"It's not as if we were trying to keep it a secret or anything." Ryoko mumbled.
"Well, then that is the answer. How did you feel today, Tenchi any different than normal?"
Tenchi shrugged for a moment, and thought about it. It seemed as if he had made just that observation that morning. He looked back at Washu.
"Calmer I think, and more relaxed than usual. Like I had a great weight lifted off my shoulders."
"That's what I thought. Because you are calm, your power can flow easier. It no longer has to get through the static of an indecisive mind."
Katsuhito just nodded and sipped his tea.
"So all that I had to do was make a choice and I got an increased use in power?" Tenchi exclaimed, not quite believing.
Katsuhito put his cup down.
"Yes Tenchi, that is all, of course, the decision also affected the way the power showed itself."
"What do you mean?" Ryoko was curious.
"It seems that he has had an increase of his fighting abilities and a slight personality change, Ryoko, but then so have you. You have lost your emotional walls and he has lost his shyness around girls."
"In other words," Washu piped up, "his hormones have leveled out."
Tenchi flushed a bit. Ryoko bit back a snide comment aimed at her mother.
"I would suggest that you keep your relationship distant from your father, Tenchi. I love my son-in-law, but sometimes keeping things from him is for the best." Grandpa intoned.
"You have something else to tell them, too." Washu looked slyly at Katsuhito. He grimaced.
"Yes, I do. Tenchi when you give Ryoko back her gems. I know you will, that is in you nature to do so. She will be able to call her own light-hawk wings. Both of you must train to use them and use them well."
"Huh, so I'm now his girlfriend and sparring partner." Ryoko commented.
Tenchi grinned. "I can handle that." He reached across and clasped her hand in his.
"You two are now the strongest beings on this planet. Learn to use that power well and remember with power comes responsibility." Katsuhito stood up after this little speech. "It's late and I am off the bed. I will see you two in the morning. Pleasant projects Little Washu." He bowed to them and left.
Ryoko and Tenchi stood up to go also. "Good night Little Washu." Tenchi yawned.
"You can call me mom Tenchi. After all you did choose my daughter."
Tenchi blinked and Ryoko started to laugh.
"Don't push your luck Mom." She got out between giggles. She grasped
Tenchi's hand and led him out the door laughing all the way.
"Children," Washu mused as the crab jangled as the door shut. Then she looked down at herself and laughed. Remembering for now she was a child too.
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-Tuesday-
Tuesday was just as good as Monday. His friends couldn't believe the change to him. Chio was the one who was having the most trouble. Tenchi gave a small mental snort. Chio wasn't the only one, Kalith was becoming almost unbearable. He had never really been friends with him, it was more of a rivalry, but really, the guy couldn't accept the fact he had been beat.
"Hey, Masaki, where's your girl? Maybe she could save you." Kalith sneered.
Tenchi looked up, he had five minutes to get to Kendo class, and did not need Kalith needling him. Inexplicably Tenchi smiled.
"Save me from what Kalith?"
"Me."
A vision with cyan hair was standing behind Kalith, energy sword raised. Well, actually she floated but with Ryoko was there a difference?
::He doesn't know what he is talking about love. Leave him be.:: Tenchi soothed.
::He threatened you, MY Tenchi.:: Her mental voice was indignant. Tenchi gave a mental shrug.
"Save me from you, Kalith, I think I can handle myself well enough." Tenchi gave a sharp look over Kalith's shoulder. ::Ryoko, get those two feet on the ground before someone sees you! And extinguish that sword.::
"Spoil sport." She pouted, Tenchi snorted.
Kalith whirled around, and saw the most beautiful girl he had seen anywhere. She had spiky cyan hair with catlike amber eyes and was just a few inches shorter than he was.
"Well hello." He charmed changing moods faster than lightning.
Ryoko gave him a look like she would give a rat.
"Amateur, I could a killed you." Her voice dripped with contempt. Kalith heard snickering behind him. "In fact, I should a, except that Tenchi pled your case and said you have no clue what goes on the world. So, until he says differently, you, greenhorn, are safe." Her eyes snapped. The snicker was brought under slow control.
"Kalith, meet my girlfriend, the infamous Ryoko." Tenchi grinned.
Ryoko gave her best predator smile that showed all her fangs. Kalith took a step back. What the? Fangs, the eyes he could deal with, but fangs.
She grinned, "I don't suck blood if that's what you're thinking."
"Class guys," Tenchi reminded gently.
Kalith gave Tenchi a spooked look and headed in the direction of class, a few of his friends dragging behind him.
Ryoko sighed. They hadn't even stayed for the fun part. Tenchi came up and wrapped his arm around her and headed off in the same direction as Kalith.
When Tenchi entered the room all the students stopped what they were doing to stare, it was obvious that Kalith had had a few minutes to fill them all in.
::Maybe you shouldn't have shown him you fangs Ryoko.::
::He deserved the scare, he's a coward.::
::That's not for us to judge.::
::If he met Kagoto, he would have wet his pants and ran the other direction. He is just that type, especially if he was scared of my fangs. Really, Tenchi, you are not scared of them.::
::Well I'm different.::
::Hey, you even like them.::
Tenchi just gave her a inscrutable glare, she glared back just as fiercely. The master saved them from anymore of an argument.
::This isn't over.:: Tenchi promised solemnly.
::I wouldn't dream of it lover.::
Tenchi took the time to bow to the master. Ryoko just nodded her head at him. Getting her to bow would just be too much. The kendo master gazed at her strangely.
"Master," Tenchi began. Ryoko winced. Tenchi sighed and began again. "Sir, may we talk to you in your office?"
"Of course Mr. Masaki and. . ." He looked questionably at Ryoko.
"Ms. Ryoko Hakubi, I'm Tenchi's girlfriend and current sparring partner."
The master just raised his eyebrows, both of them sighed. The master smiled as if he had reached a conclusion and beckoned them towards his office.
His assistants called the class to order and training began again. The door shut behind the departing trio.
"I take it you two are much closer than boyfriend/girlfriend." The master smiled as they sat on cushions surrounding a low table.
Ryoko smiled like the cat she resembled and Tenchi just cleared his throat.
The master went on.
"I'm actually surprised you hadn't beat Kalith before this Tenchi, you see I know your grandfather and he is a hard taskmaster. I also see some of his rather distinctive fighting style when you fight."
"Your wondering why it took so long Mr. Yoru." Tenchi guessed.
"I admit that I am the slightest bit curious."
"Women troubles," Ryoko put forth.
"Thank you, love, you can always be called upon to be short sweet and to the point." Tenchi sighed.
"Well, it is true." Ryoko defended.
"Is it?" Mr. Yoru raised an eyebrow.
Tenchi nodded glumly. "Strange, to be held back by such a simple problem, but then there is no such thing as a simple problem, my grandfather would say."
"I admire your grandfather. Katsuhito has much wisdom and much knowledge."
Mr. Yoru nodded.
"Poor Tenchi," Ryoko couldn't help but tease. "He has six women in the house, two after him all the time. . ."
Tenchi snorted again. "Praise Kami that that craziness is over for a few months."
"...one constantly trying to experiment on him, the next a perpetual ditz, the ditz's partner who has no interest whatsoever..."
"My sanity in an insane world," Tenchi lamented looking at the ceiling.
". and the last the sweetest little girl."
Mr. Yoru looked at him in amazement.
"What makes you so desirable Tenchi?" He had to ask with raised eyebrows.
Tenchi just groaned and shook his head.
"If he knew, or we knew, we would tell you." Ryoko intoned, the most serious she had been during the whole meeting. Then she broke out in a smile again. "Actually I do know, but it is quite a long list and would take time."
"Then what is the essence of it Ms. Hakubi? I am very curious, a man with five women after him and he has no idea why? Amazing."
Ryoko sobered for a minute, in deep thought. What was it about Tenchi...? She looked around for inspiration and the looked back at Yoru.
"Well, two distinctive reasons beyond his looks." Tenchi snorted. "One, he is kind, sometimes too kind. He can see the good in almost anything. Two, he treats everybody the same. It doesn't matter to him whether you were gutter trash or royalty. Tenchi treats you with respect and as a person. That is part of the reason why he had five women after him and why I love him." Ryoko smiled, and tears glistened in her eyes.
Mr. Yoru smiled gently.
"You are a lucky man to have a girl like her, Tenchi Masaki. I must remember that approach, though. Kindness and respect, what every person craves and needs."
Tenchi had been tense throughout Ryoko's speech, he visibly relaxed. He cracked a weak smile.
"Easy enough for you to say sir, you didn't have to live through it." Mr. Yoru grinned.
"That I didn't Tenchi. However, now that you have overcome this 'problem', what is it that you have come to talk to me about?"
Ryoko clasped her hands on her lap. ::May I begin, Tenchi?::
::Of course.::
"What we need to know Mr. Yoru is whether or not you have taught everything you know to Kalith. If you have, I must say that he is a very shoddy student or else you are a bad taskmaster. Not that I mean any disrespect."
Yoru sighed and shook his head.
"None is taken Ms. Hakubi. Please call me Yoru that goes for you as well Tenchi."
Both of them nodded. Yoru closed his eyes.
"No, I have not taught Kalith all I know. He has not the discipline needed to complete the training. However he is the best I have been able to train and at times I am ashamed of him."
Ryoko perked up at this. "I am not surprised. I stood right behind him with Tenchi looking straight at me and he didn't notice anything until I said something. Shoddy and arrogant, this may surprise you Yoru, but killing was my business at one time and he would be what is called an easy mark."
Yoru looked at her with mild amusement, "Then what would I be Ms. Hakubi?"
Ryoko snorted. "If you have had half the training Katsuhito had you are definitely not an easy mark. Please call me Ryoko."
"Very well Ryoko."
"Yoru," Tenchi faltered over the name, but managed to go on. "I must ask if you would be willing to teach the both of us past what you have taught Kalith?"
Yoru looked at them with surprise.
"You make it sound as if someone is after your head."
Ryoko and Tenchi looked at each other, shrugged and turned back to Yoru.
"Well, someone usually is." Ryoko said grimly. "And I for one would prefer to be ready. We will be willing to pay what we can of course."
Yoru waved that aside. "Don't worry about it. I am willing to do anything for the children of Katsuhito."
"You understand that we will be blending my grandfather's techniques with yours." Tenchi said softly.
Yoru nodded.
Ryoko sighed in contentment.
::I'm glad he agreed. I hate to sound morbid, but I do expect a fight when Ayeka gets back and well there is so much unresolved with the other house members...::
Tenchi got up.
"We shouldn't keep you from your class Yoru." He bowed and turned to give Ryoko a hand up. She promptly batted it away and got up on her own. She nodded at Yoru.
"It was pleasant visiting with you Tenchi and Ryoko. I shall expect you tomorrow, same time, same place." Yoru replied.
"Of course," Tenchi bowed again. Ryoko smiled and nodded. They showed themselves out. Yoru watched them go with this odd smile on his face.
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The kendo class once again came to a stop when the two of them stepped out of Yoru's office. Tenchi looked up at the ceiling and suppressed the instinct to roll his eyes. Ryoko did roll hers.
She walked right down the middle of the room and stood in the center and said in her best impression of Ayeka. "Proceed."
This time Tenchi did roll his eyes.
Ryoko was enjoying herself. "It is as if you had never seen a girl before." She giggled. "Really, I haven't got started. Isn't that right Tenchi?" She called over her shoulder.
He just walked up to her and then past her, got half way to the door from his position and turned.
"If this is how they react to you in normal clothes, I wonder how they will react when you are really whiled up."
Ryoko threw her head back and laughed. Tenchi looked apologetic.
"Get used to her, she doesn't have many manners."
Ryoko stopped laughing.
"When we get home you are so going to get it." She hissed.
Tenchi's eyes danced.
"So what are you going to do, so I may be prepared?"
The rest of the class watched this byplay in fascination.
She walked up to him and put her arm around his.
"I'll decide when we get there."
Tenchi rolled his eyes and began walking with her to the door. Then caught the images in her mind. He glared at her. She simply smiled sweetly.
"Yes, my Tenchi."
"Oh, never mind."
They walked out the door together.
"See ya tomorrow." Ryoko called back over her shoulder.
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-later that evening-
Tenchi stopped hoeing for a moment and leaned against the implement. He thought about the day and smiled wryly, no his class was definitely not ready for the five thousand year old space pirate.
For a moment he wondered if this is what it would have been like if Ayeka had never shown up. Him and Ryoko, together, forever, ach, how cliché could you get. He smiled, however at the moment he wouldn't have it any other way.
He went back to pondering a problem that had been bugging him. How to give Ryoko her gems back? He loved her and wanted this gift from him to her to be special. He sighed maybe for once he would just go with the flow and decide when the moment came. Yes, that sounded real good, why plan your life to the last detail, this part he meant to savor and let come.
::Beloved. . .:: came the soft voice of his love.
::Yes dear.::
::Dinner is ready. I think you have done enough in those fields today.::
::I wholeheartedly agree. So what is for dinner anyway?::
::A surprise.:: Ryoko's laugh tinkled in his mind.
::I'll be inside in a few moments.:: He sent her a ghost kiss that made Ryoko smile.
Ryoko smile turned to a small frown, Tenchi had been worried about something before she had called him for dinner. The pirate didn't have much time to think about it before Tenchi arrived at the house, a basket in his hands by force of habit and an excited cabbit jumping along behind him.
Ryoko took the basket from his arms and gave him a quick kiss before she headed over to the fridge and dumped the carrots in. Ryo-ohki tried to dive in after them but was grabbed by the scruff of her neck by a prepared Ryoko.
By the time she turned, shaking Ryo-ohki slightly, Tenchi had already sat down at the table and dished out food for the both of them.
Ryoko stopped and considered the table, two place settings and a small plate for Ryo-ohki. Music played softly in the background, and light drifted in through the windows in streams created by floating dust motes. Was this what it was like to be married?
"I wouldn't know." Tenchi murmured. His eyes caught hers and stayed. "I was too young to remember much about how my mom and dad acted after she died."
"You were listening to my thoughts." Ryoko accused, dropping Ryo-ohki.
Tenchi gave a lopsided grin and stuck his tongue out at her, she teleported behind him and glomped him squeezing him half to death.
"I am going to keep this up until you apologize, Tenchi Masaski." She breathed into his ear.
He did something better, somehow, she wasn't sure how, his head turned and he began to kiss her deeply. Ryoko's arms loosened and she settled into his lap returning the kiss with as much eagerness.
The kiss broke and Ryoko rested her head on his chest. This was perfect, just perfect.
"Not quite." He breathed into her ear, his lips brushed her ear, he placed gentle kisses down her jaw line, her breathe became ragged.
"Tenchi," she gasped, "don't tease me like this." His lips regained hers after that sentence and silence reigned in the kitchen.
Ryoko broke the kiss and mock glared at him.
"Tenchi the food will get cold."
"Then don't tempt me with your beauty Ryoko." His voice was low and fervent.
Ryoko blushed slightly and teleported to the other side of the table and began to eat distractedly. Her head came up after a few minutes.
"Do you really think that, Tenchi?"
"Your beautiful, Ryoko." He replied, thinking that was what she meant.
"No, that you want to spend the rest of your life with me."
Tenchi blinked at her for a few seconds.
"Now who was listening." he accused back.
She picked up her water to throw at him. "Answer the question, bub."
"Yes, yes I do."
Ryoko nodded.
::Good, 'cause I want to do be with you too.::
Tenchi had half a chopstick full of food to his mouth when she made this comment and the romantic mood of the evening ended when Ryoko burst out laughing at the look on his face.
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-Wednesday-
Tenchi was beginning to believe that life was just more fun with Ryoko as your girlfriend. For one, no one in school knew what to do with her. Not the teachers, not the principles, and definitely not the students.
Ryoko leaned against Tenchi during lunch and chit chatted with the few girls who sat with them (they watched the same soap operas). Tenchi was focused on eating lunch and Ryoko had informed him this morning that she wasn't eating that day. Tenchi had shrugged and told her that that was her prerogative, and then she had informed him she was going to school with him. He had tried to talk her out of it, but she was stubborn.
"Something to say, Kalith?" Ryoko said sweetly, without turning around.
Kalith jumped, she couldn't of known he was there.
::Don't spook him to bad Ryoko.:: Tenchi chided.
::He deserves it.:: "Cat got your tongue?" she purred.
Tenchi shook his head in defeat, sometimes he knew that whatever happened happened.
::Promise not to hurt him.::
::How can you think so little of me?::
"Sit down Kalith, how have you been?" Tenchi offered, ignoring the look Chio and Amagasaki where giving him.
"Trying to make up for your girlfriends rudeness, Masaski?" Kalith spat.
::Sometimes that boy wouldn't know kindness if it was handed to him on a platter, the last time someone did that to me, well, suffice to say it wasn't very pretty.:: Ryoko said exasperated.
"Somehow, I believe you." Tenchi muttered.
::Really, what did he expect me to say? Hi, how are you, your handsome. Give me a break.::
Tenchi began to try to studiously ignore Ryoko's telepathic comments, it was difficult though.
"I mean, she has no manners." Kalith had gone on without hearing Tenchi's comment, which was good, for it had been for Ryoko's ears only.
Tenchi grinned back at Kalith, and nodded. "I think it's part of her charm, she says what she means. No more, no less."
"I'll take that as a compliment, Thank you." Ryoko chirped, winking at Kalith, who was a bit taken aback by her boldness.
Ryoko stole some food from Tenchi's plate and ate it before he could grab it back.
She stood up, and faced Kalith, an odd look on her face.
"I'm afraid we got off to a bad start Kalith. Shall we start over?"
She held out her hand, and promptly Kalith gave her a look that he would give dirt and turned and stalked away.
Ryoko sighed.
"You can't say you didn't try Ryoko." Chio commented. "Kalith is rolling in dough and thinks everybody should kiss his the ground he walks on because of it. He's never been easy to get along with."
"Unfortunately I know quite a few people like that Chio, and I treat them the same way I treat everybody else."
"Terribly," Tenchi muttered.
Ryoko threw him a dirty glance. "The same way they treat me, thank you very much Mr. I treat everybody kindly Masaki."
"Some people may disagree with you, Ms. I don't give a care Hakubi."
The look they share could only be loving and the others at the table restrained from either rolling their eyes or wishing that they had a love like that.
--
Kendo came around again and Master Yoru was looking forward to this one for his was the first class where he would exclusively teach Tenchi and Ryoko. At last, a student that was worth the effort to train in the methods that had been passed down to him. Ryoko was a unknown however. How much did she know?
Ryoko stood with her back against the wall and her eyes on the door, very much like a cornered animal. She was nervous, to fight without her powers was going to be difficult and she almost wished she had asked Katsuhito to train her instead. She took a few deep breathes to calm herself and watched out of the corner of her eye as Yoru began to warm up. How much did this old man really know?
Yoru turned and was a bit surprised to see Ryoko there considering that the Kendo class didn't start until next period.
Ryoko took a deep breathe and calmed her nerves.
"Mr. Yoru, I am afraid that I have never been taught any traditional martial arts." She began.
He winced.
She held up a hand to stop him from speaking and took a step away from the wall.
"That doesn't mean I'm not any good, it just means that my style varies extremely, and in fact I am not used to fighting under these conditions at all."
For a moment Yoru wondered what she meant by 'these conditions.'
She didn't give him much time to wonder as she quickly went on.
"My former master," she spat the word, and Yoru winced. "Wasn't extremely kind, however he did know what he was talking about, usually. I have been taught so many styles that remembering anything conclusively is a pain in the neck."
"I will try to understand, Ms. Hakubi." Yoru nodded at her.
"If you like you can gauge how good I am Mr. Yoru. I hope you are not disappointed."
"Since we have time, I think that might be a good idea."
Ryoko nodded and found a bokken that was leaning against a wall. She weighed its balance carefully and smiled at the practice sword's craftsmanship.
While it was traditional to bow, Yoru was of the old school that one doesn't bow in a fight so why bow at all. So he simply attacked, without word or sound.
Ryoko spun, bringing her own sword up in that unorthodox grip he'd often seen Tenchi use. *CLACK!* The swords shivered with the force of contact.
Yoru kept up the offensive, testing and probing Ryoko's defenses, however this only lasted a few moments before she turned the tables on him.
Yoru noticed that her offense was much stronger than her defense and that was her primary weakness. However, it was frustrating, because of her unorthodox moves he could not see what she was going to do next and the kata she was using was beyond him.
He was reacting to what she did and that in his mind was a serious problem, not for her but for him. He desperately switched back to the offense to find himself put immediately back in the defensive position. The dratted thing was she had started to use the defensive moves he was using against her to the correct effect.
Ryoko's sword slipped past his guard and Yoru conceded the fight.
"Ms. Hakubi, you are light-years beyond me."
To his surprise Ryoko flushed slightly at the statement. "Thank you, no one has ever told me that before."
"I was going to say that your defense was a bit weak, but it seemed to pick up after we started going."
"HE was always of the philosophy that if you went on the defensive that was the first step towards losing." Ryoko's voice was flat and Yoru wondered at the emphasis she put on the pronoun.
"Who was your former master, Ryoko? I might know him." Yoru asked out of curiosity.
Ryoko just gave a sharp and bitter laugh.
"I doubt, Yoru, that you knew Kagato. To him, you would have been mere trash. Not worthy to even walk on, and he'd kill you without even blinking. Praise Tsunami he is dead."
Yoru didn't know what to say and so said nothing.
The students began to file in.
--
Tenchi walked arm and arm down the street after school as they headed towards the bus stop.
"Do you think that was productive?" Tenchi asked pensively.
Ryoko looked up at him for a moment.
"For a while it will be, then we are on our own."
Tenchi grunt was non-committal.
"Oh, true, we have to get through your grandfather's training before that, however, if this keeps up. Who knows?" Ryoko shrugged.
Tenchi stood aside and let her get on the bus before him. They took the last empty seat and paid little attention to the scenery going by, silence enfolded them.
Tenchi sighed and entwined his fingers with hers. In some ways this was so confusing, the abilities, the power the changes. In other ways he could feel life becoming more peaceful like now.
::I love you, Ryoko.::
Ryoko smiled and leaned her head on his chest.
::And I you Tenchi::
The rest of the bus ride was a peaceful one.
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END CHAPTER!
Okay, from here you need to leave and go read the Engagement... and remember between now and the Engagement and the NEXT Chapter TWO (2) months have gone by. Those will be addressed later.
Questions and comments should be sent to one of the emails below! Check out my websites... and tell me what you think please.
RingPrincess
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