The Day of the Angels
Chapter One: Finding an Angel
Notes: I'm warning you that this may get confusing. I won't go into too much detail on Zarin in this chapter. I may explain certain events in different chapters, or if it's minor, I might not. I thought that I should at least prepare you. After this chapter I will focus on other characters, this is going to be the last one mainly focusing on one character.
***** Sylas, Coraland Royal capital of Fuerza One year after the royal wedding
A figure was silouhetted by the silvery moon, rocking in front of a window. A soft sound of a woman speaking had filled the room with a sense of calm as the voice soothed away a few whimpering sounds. The moon had illuminated the peaceful face of an child, that was nearly a year old with cherub cheeks and raven strands of hair. Green eyes darted about the room curiously, tears evaporating as was the voice that was speaking stopped. The child, a little girl with green feline eyes stared at the woman, who cradled her in safe arms. Whispered endearments, gentle caresses, and hummed lullabyes drifted in the air, and seemed to magically draw a man into the room. Lord Zarin knelt beside the chair, and studied the little girl with rapt adoration. She smiled at him and held her arms out as he came near. Lifting the child in his arms, he tweaked her nose and smiled at the woman who was smiling at the adorable scene they made. Zarin's five year old son, Aidan, joined them. Aidan had his father's looks, but his mother's coloring with hair the color of wheat and eyes as silver as the moons casting glow. Ryoko was content to see her little family together in one room. It had a warm feeling. She had a husband who cared for her, a daughter to love, and a son that she will adore for all time. She thought back to the day when she ran into Zarin at Tenchi and Ayeka's wedding. He was there to represent the royal house of Fuerza, for Jurai was their ally. He used to be a pirate for his grandfather, the former ruler of his planet. They had ran into each other raiding important ships and planets. There were times she was on one of the planets that was his planet's enemy, and they had always worked together in the destructions. At the wedding on Jurai, he told her that he lost the desire to kill innocents who had or wanted nothing to do with the wars. After his grandfather had died and his uncle had taken the throne, he had settled down and was married to a woman by the name of Demi Almara. From that union Aidan was born. Zarin was in love with his wife, and she returned his love. They were inseperable, for nothing and no one could get between them except for death. Demi had taken ill when Aidan was only two years old, and she had died. Zarin was inconsolable, he became so distant that he didn't even pay any mind to his young son, who reminded him so much of her. Demi was everything that was kind and loving, and she was the peace that settled his chaotic soul. Without her there was no light, and without light there was nothing. What brought him back was when he had received a visitor, his mother. Lady Krina nil Sylas, who was the one person he did not wish to see at this time. Krina was the sister to the emperor, who couldn't have any children of his own, thus Zarin was heir when his uncle dies. She was a cold-hearted person who didn't really care for anyone save herself, and the only care she gave about Zarin was the fact that he was next in line. She wanted to make sure he was well enough to attend the emperor's birthday celebration, and she wanted him to prepare for guests that would be staying in his home, for her's had no more room, due to other guests. Krina had him open his eyes when she had berated Aidan very unkindly when he had cried. Krina left after informing him that he should hire someone to teach the child manners. After she had gone, Zarin comforted his son, and vowed that he will no longer ignore the child that came from his and Demi's love.
He had told Ryoko at the wedding that she could stay at Fuerza, and train Aidan in combat skills, she agreed. And upon arrival she spotted Aidan and felt a maternal affection for the young son of Zarin. It was love for Aidan that drew her and Zarin closer, along with some circumstances, and they were married. Soon after that, Sophia was born. Out of everything she had done wrong, Sophia was the only thing that she had done right. She had the family she had always dreamed of. A husband and children. Sure Zarin and she loved and cared for each other, but it wasn't the love they had felt for the first people they had cared about. Zarin is still completely devoted to his wife's memory and never fails to forget her. Ryoko had caught that look of longing in his face as he stared at a portrait of Demi. It was the same look she would get whenever she thought of Tenchi, and she didn't need a portrait, she has a daily reminder of him now. Everyone agreed to Zarin's marrying her, except for his mother, who told both him and Ryoko exactly what she thought of the match. Zarin ignored her of course, and the result was that they hadn't heard from Krina ever since. Ryoko studied her family again, and smiled as she listened to Zarin telling the children an old story of warriors and damsels in distress. Despite her longings for another life with another man, she wouldn't trade this life for anything.
***** The Royal Palace Jurai Meanwhile
The royal prince had paced nervously, worry etching his face as he thought anxiously, What's taking so long? The first wife to the Emperor Azusa, Funaho, had baded him to sit down. "Tenchi, please, these things take time and because it's the first, it will take few more hours." She saw that this didn't help so she tried "Ayeka will be fine, she's strong and she's still young, she'll pull through just fine. Besides, Washu is assisting and I can think of no other person in there with Ayeka." Tenchi's features relaxed somewhat and he sat down. He managed a weak smile and said, "Yeah, I guess you're right. If there was anything to go wrong, Washu will be there to save day. It's just that I'm excited and worried at the same time. This is all new to me, and I wonder how I'll hold out after this." Sasami, the blue haired young girl sitting beside him, took his hand and held it. "It'll be ok, Tenchi. Everyone is here for you, and always will be." He smiled. Sasami hadn't changed much, but she had grown a little taller, and her pink eyes looked as if they had Tsunami's infinite knowledge. Ryo- ohki hopped off her head and into his lap, purring as if she was trying to offer Tenchi some form of comfort. He smiled and scratched behind the cabbit's ears. They're right, he thought, everything will turn out alright. Just as he assured himself, Misaki burst out of the chamber with a big smile adorning her face. Startled, everyone stood abruptly and Tenchi suddenly became anxious. "Misaki, everything alright? How is she? How is the...umph!" he was interrupted as Misaki gave him a huge bear hug. After she released him, the only thought that came to his mind was to get air in his lungs quickly. After he managed to breathe, he noticed that Misaki was still beaming and she was beckoning him into the chamber. The first person he sought was his beloved wife, and he was flooded with relief after he spotted her. Her eyes were closed, her violet hair spread out on the pillows, an exhausted yet peaceful smile curved her lips as if she was pleased with some accomplishment. Of course, he thought, she has every right to be. He heard a cough behind him and he turned around to find Washu behind him and Misaki holding a small bundle. Both were grinning. Washu cleared her throat. "Congradulations, Tenchi, you are now the father of a very healthy baby boy." Misaki handed him the bundle very gingerly. He stared down into warm violet eyes like Ayeka's, and tufts of black hair like his own. Emotions swirled within him as he stared at the small result from his love for Ayeka. A soft smile appeared on his lips as he sat down holding his son in his arms. Washu and Misaki smiled at the scene and had decided to leave the three alone and exited the room. After they left, Ayeka opened her eyes and reached out to touch her husband. He started a moment then smiled down at his wife. "Now I get you both to myself.", she smiled sleepily. Tenchi leaned down and kissed his wife's forhead while holding his son close to his heart. "Thank you, love, for giving us a son." he looked at the sleeping bundle then back at her "What are we going to name him?" She thought for a moment, then she took the baby from his father and studied him closely, then smiled as a name came to her "Kino." she looked at her husband and smiled, "Kino Masaki Jurai." After marrying Ayeka, Tenchi had to take on the last name of Jurai. If he was to be the next king, it was required for anyone who married a crowned princess or prince to take on the royal name of Jurai. This was so that any offspring from that union will continue on the royal name of Jurai. Tenchi tested the name on his tongue, sounding it out, then nodded his approval. "Kino." he smiled at his son. Kino it was.
***** The Garwood Jungle The Planet Fuerza 2 years later
Zarin lead his troops through the lush, dense jungle. A segregated country was at odds with the empire because they didn't like the tyrant, as they had put it, that was on the throne. Why did they care? Zarin wondered as the question echoed in his head. They had their own ideas and beliefs, they had their free government who could do as they wish. They had broken off a long time ago and everyone was living peacefully until last year. There were bombings, space raids, threats, and some assasinations of very valuable nobles. The result, war. Zarin didn't want to be in any part of retaliation, for he was in charge of assasinating any of their leaders they were holding ransom, and he was to annihilate the towns or cities of their country. He didn't though. There were so many women and children, and his heart had constricted when he thought about his own family. He saw a little girl that had reminded him so much of his daughter, Sophia. The girl was laughing, and playing with other children her age, and young boy about his own son's age. He told Aidan to watch out for his little sister, that girls had a habit of getting into more mischief than boys. Aidan was a bright child, even though he was seven. Ryoko was training him to become a great swordsman, but when he was old enough, he was to go to an old mentor of his father's. Ryoko had done a wonderful job at training Aidan, he was able to perform many moves and attacks. She had even went as far as to taking him to Earth to visit her old home and to see the former Prince Yosho. He had the appearance of an old man, but he was able handle a sword like he did when he was younger. He gave Aidan some mind exercises and gave him spiritual some spiritual training. She even showed him and Sophia off to her mother. Yosho and Washu had decided to stay on Earth. Yosho wanted to only because his family was buried there and wanted to be close. Washu decided, because she liked her lab location and Earth was peaceful when you didn't have two women fighting nearly everyday. Ryoko also received the news of Ayeka and Tenchi's son, and wanted to know everything about him. After they left, Ryoko was happier than she had ever been, and he was glad he had taken her to Earth. He felt bad for not giving Ryoko all his love. Most of his love was reserved for Demi, his late wife. She was the heart of Fuerza, and would have made a wonderful ruler that his grandmother, Nicholaa, had been. Though he had felt bad about not feeling the same for Ryoko, he knew she would be a leader to the soldiers that reside in the palace, and she would be in charge of all the defenses. He cared a lot for her and was appreciative of what she had done for Aidan. He knew she didn't love him completely, for her love was reserved to the first crowned prince of Jurai. The prince didn't return her feelings, but he had cared for her. Zarin kicked himself over and over for not feeling more for the woman he married, she has done much to atone for the crimes she had committed, and she gave Aidan a mother. Aidan adored Ryoko and wanted to do what was expected of him, even take care of his little sister. A shout brought Zarin on guard and he looked up and saw that the enemy troops were approaching. He shouted out orders for men to make ready for attack. Streaks of orange light whizzed past the army as the enemy had opened fire. Zarin's troops had retaliated by bringing out their blasters and shooting back at their foes. They met the enemy troops head on, and they fought through hand to hand combat and with swords. Zarin kicked a soldier off from him and slashed through one that was in front of him. Two of his noblest soldiers were fighting behind him, watching his back. Rickard D'zan and Tsou Fumata. Rickard was his friend from childhood, whose son was betrothed, without Ryoko's knowledge, to Sophia. Ryoko didn't want her daughter's husbands chosen for her, but for Sophia to choose her own destiny. Zarin didn't want to choose for her either, but it was for her protection in the near future. Tsou was only with him for a year, transferred from a planet whose alliance is questioned, but he proved to be trustworthy, even though Zarin sensed something dark about him. Ryoko didn't trust him at all, and the point clear when Tsou patted little Sophia on the head. She charged up her energy sword and warned him away from her daughter. He heard someone cry his name and as he whirled around, a laser had hit his arm and a sword pierced his stomach. Crying out in pain, he retaliated and jabbed his sword into the person that had wounded him. Despite the pain and the amount of blood he had lost, he continued to fight and the enemy soldiers were so pressed, they retreated. Zarin stood amidst the wounded and killed, breathing heavily as he surveyed the damage. He didn't want to die like this, yet... They say death is a blessing in disguise. He fell to his knees as his world began to dim. Where was that bright light you were supposed to see as you die?, he thought. The light had come, but not as he expected. Visions of Aidan and Sophia had flashed before his eyes, but the last vision that came to him was of the only light in his life, Demi.
***** Sylus, Coraland Royal Capital of Fuerza 2 Days Later
Ryoko sat in her room, staring out her favorite window. Her face was emotionless, but her hands bit into the arms of the polished wooden arms of the chair. The breeze blew through the window, slightly blowing her hair and the light edges of her clothing. Finally, she closed her eyes and leaned her head back. A tear escaped the corner of her eye, making a small trail to her lips. She wiped the tear away as she stared back out the window. She had lost a husband, who was more friend than lover. He was Aidan's father, someone somebody could lean on. He was Sophia's father, she told herself, he was protector, and security. He was also the only friend she had on this planet. His friends would talk to her only if they had to send a message, or to ask for him. The only people she could go to was in Jurai and on Earth, but pride kept her from going to Jurai. She wasn't ready to go and face everybody yet, and she didn't want to go to Earth right now. The reason was that she had a responsibility here on Fuerza. Her thoughts all came to a halt. Responsibility? When had that ever stopped her? She remembered how she used to be when she shrugged off responsibility and ducked out of doing chores. Teasing Ayeka was one of the main highlights of her life, and picking on Tenchi. Tenchi... She wondered how he and Ayeka are holding up, especially now that they have two kids of their own and that they are the rulers of Jurai. They probably hadn't changed like she did. Whatever happened to the old Ryoko, the one who was very rambunctious and liked to cause a lot of mischief. The one who liked to pick on Ayeka and get her all fired up, the one who teased Tenchi unmercifully just to see him get all flustered. The answer immediately came to her. Maturity and motherhood had changed her. Aidan and Sophia had changed her. A sad smile curved her mouth, she had mellowed out over the years, especially after Tenchi and Ayeka's wedding. She heard a heart-broken cry coming from the nursery then she sighed and went to tend her daughter. After she calmed Sophia down she heard a commotion outside. She laid her daughter down and went to see what it was. Captain D'zan was preparing soldiers outside to leave and she questioned him. "What's going on? What is all the commotion about?" The captain studied Ryoko for a moment then hesitated. "Tell me captain, unlike the rest of these women, I don't get shocked easily." He studied her for a moment then gave in "A wounded soldier was carried in this morning, one of the neighboring cities was attacked by the Seperate Fuerzan Union. We believe that they are allied with our outside enemies. We are going to put a stop to their attack and find out who they are fighting with." Ryoko thought for a moment. She remembered that Zarin had always fought with his soldiers as did the other nobles. It was to boost their morale, and to test the loyalty of his soldiers. Now that Zarin was gone, who was to lead them? The captain saw that look on her face and as if he read her mind, stated. "If the lord had died, it is the captain's duty to lead the men in battle, in honor of his lord." "But what if there was another leader, someone who runs the manor after the lord dies?" Ryoko had a very determined look on her face. "Then they come along, but my lady, we have to keep you safe here. If anything happened to you, who's going to protect the young lord and lady?" then he added "We have traitors within the hierarchy, if there is no one to protect the children then they can harm them... Ryoko cut him off "Then I will arrange it for them to go somewhere that they won't come to harm. While I'm away they can stay with one of the laborer's with many children. I am the lady and guardian of this town, I can't sit around and do nothing. What good would I be if I just stayed in the manor just sitting around?" She glared at the captain. The captain stared into her narrowed eyes. He was one of the few skeptics who tried to talk Zarin out of marrying her. Zarin just laughed and told him that she was a completely different person now and he married her anyway. After awhile he saw her as Zarin had saw her and came to learn that she wasn't has evil as he heard the stories of her. He saw her with the children and became fond of her, looking at her now, standing her ground looking very determined, he was a little in love with her. He sighed. "I'll have the men wait for you, but we cannot wait long otherwise there will be nothing but charred remains of a city." Ryoko smiled her delight then nodded, then she left. Ryoko leaned down to look Aidan in the eyes. She smiled warmly and kissed his forehead."Aidan, you and Sophie will stay here in Miss Shira's house while I'm away. I want you to mind her as if she were me and if anyone was to come searching for you, anyone who is bad, you will acknowledge yourself as one of her sons and Sophie as her daughter." Aidan looked up at her with a sad look, one that made her feel as if she was abandoning them. "What if you don't come back? What if you die, like my father?" his silver eyes filled with tears. Ryoko kept her own emotions at bay she kneeled and looked him in the eyes, then smiled warmly. "Don't dwell on that, but if anything were to happen to me, you will go to your mother's family, and Sophie must stay with friends of mine." The thought of being separated from his sister and Ryoko dying must have frightened him, for his face paled. "But... I don't want us to be apart. Why can't Sophie and I stay together?" He hugged Ryoko around the waist. She smiled sagely, "Aidan, if I die, there will be people after you. No one is to know where you stay, not even your grandmother. There are many traitors that lurk about and only people I can trust know where you are going. If anyone were to ask, they will be told you are with your father's relatives, and they are vast. There are those who want to kill the heirs of the empire, and that's you and Sophie." Aidan seemed to understand, for he nodded. Ryoko placed a comforting hand on his shoulder before she picked up Sophia. "And you, my angel, will listen to Aidan. Look up to your big brother and be good for Miss Shira. She risks much by taking in you two, and she already has a big family to care for." Sophia looked at her with her large green eyes, the eyes she had inherited from Washu, and Ryoko knew that she understood. Even at three years old, she understood somehow. Captain D'zan came behind her. "My lady, we must leave in all haste." she nodded then kissed the top of Sophia's head. She set her down and ruffled both children's hair, eliciting laughs from them both, she leaned down and whispered "Smile as I leave, and give me luck." After getting them to smile, she turned around to leave with the men. She turned around and gazed at the children just long enough to memorize their smiles, then she disappeared over the hill with the soldiers.
***** Sylas, Coraland City Outskirts 2 years later
There was something in the air, for the birds were quiet and not a rustle within the trees. The only sound heard was of numerous children playing in the backyard of a small house. Sophia was chasing after a friend of hers that held no name, but her uncle had lovingly named her for an aunt that was lost during child birth and a divinity of her planet. Ceres is what she is called, or when she was with her parents they had called her Kerema, which was translated to 'girl child' in her language. Sophia's friend's parents never loved their daughter who was their only child. Males were highly valued in Ceres' family, and since she was born a girl, her parents had never shown her any love. They never bothered with giving her a name. Ceres was like Sophia in a way. They both held a keen intelligence for their young ages of six and seven. Ceres was speaking four languages by the time she was four and could read adult level books. Sophia may not read such a level yet, but she knew at least three different languages. They could, both, sense things and now they were sensing something foreboding. Ceres stopped and motioned to a woman who was speaking with Sophia's guardian, Shira Nebri. The woman was dressed in a black business suit, and she held a computer like device that was in a case. Shira disappeared into the house with the woman. Shira had shown the woman where she could sit in the dining area of her home. The woman before her placed the computer on the table and turned it on before facing Shira. "Mrs. Nebri, I am Miss Flora Genova, Lord Aidan and Lady Sophia's solicitor. Lady Ryoko has entrusted me with their care until I can deliver them safely to their appointed destinations." Shira, nervously tugging on an aqua strand of hair, looked up at Miss Genova. "So, she was killed as well as Lord Zarin." Miss Genova shook her head. "No, actually there's no way of knowing for sure." She checked her files on the computer, then read off the screen, "She's missing, but she was gravely wounded in a skirmish. They went back to search for her, but she was no where to be found. Captain D'zan has informed me that I am to send the children away until this war is over." She glanced up and saw the woman before her staring out the window, gazing at the two children she currently has in her care. "I had hoped that I would never have to give them any bad news about her. They have been missing her these two years. They are finally interacting with the other children." Miss Genova's heart went out to the other woman. Shira was well known for caring for orphans in the city. She had fostered them and cared for them as if they were her own. When there was a couple who wanted children, Shira would have them to adopt one of her orphans. Flora Genova was one of those who admired caring people. "I will take the responsibility. You can ready their belongings while I give them the news. As I said, Lady Ryoko is just missing. Until a body is found, they can just live on the hope that she is still alive." And so she left the small house to find the children, and gave them the news. An hour later they had left the planet they had grown up on.
Note: This wasn't as good as I originally planned it. I had it the way I wanted it and was about to send it until it just disappeared. If there are any grammatical errors, I'm sorry, for I have done this without my trusty spell and grammar check. I have grown far too dependent on that feature. Also I'm terrible at giving names, but these characters are least likely to appear again. Ceres is my character that I am currently writing a story on. She will be in future chapters as Sophia's best friend, and Aidan is the name I had taken from Ceres's uncle, except his name is spelled Aden. My next chapter should be better than this one. I had typed this all in one day when the original had taken about two months to work on. I would like to thank my family and friends who had encouraged me in everything I do, and those reading my fanfiction for giving me their thoughts, opinions, and advice. Thank you for taking your time to read my work.
Chapter One: Finding an Angel
Notes: I'm warning you that this may get confusing. I won't go into too much detail on Zarin in this chapter. I may explain certain events in different chapters, or if it's minor, I might not. I thought that I should at least prepare you. After this chapter I will focus on other characters, this is going to be the last one mainly focusing on one character.
***** Sylas, Coraland Royal capital of Fuerza One year after the royal wedding
A figure was silouhetted by the silvery moon, rocking in front of a window. A soft sound of a woman speaking had filled the room with a sense of calm as the voice soothed away a few whimpering sounds. The moon had illuminated the peaceful face of an child, that was nearly a year old with cherub cheeks and raven strands of hair. Green eyes darted about the room curiously, tears evaporating as was the voice that was speaking stopped. The child, a little girl with green feline eyes stared at the woman, who cradled her in safe arms. Whispered endearments, gentle caresses, and hummed lullabyes drifted in the air, and seemed to magically draw a man into the room. Lord Zarin knelt beside the chair, and studied the little girl with rapt adoration. She smiled at him and held her arms out as he came near. Lifting the child in his arms, he tweaked her nose and smiled at the woman who was smiling at the adorable scene they made. Zarin's five year old son, Aidan, joined them. Aidan had his father's looks, but his mother's coloring with hair the color of wheat and eyes as silver as the moons casting glow. Ryoko was content to see her little family together in one room. It had a warm feeling. She had a husband who cared for her, a daughter to love, and a son that she will adore for all time. She thought back to the day when she ran into Zarin at Tenchi and Ayeka's wedding. He was there to represent the royal house of Fuerza, for Jurai was their ally. He used to be a pirate for his grandfather, the former ruler of his planet. They had ran into each other raiding important ships and planets. There were times she was on one of the planets that was his planet's enemy, and they had always worked together in the destructions. At the wedding on Jurai, he told her that he lost the desire to kill innocents who had or wanted nothing to do with the wars. After his grandfather had died and his uncle had taken the throne, he had settled down and was married to a woman by the name of Demi Almara. From that union Aidan was born. Zarin was in love with his wife, and she returned his love. They were inseperable, for nothing and no one could get between them except for death. Demi had taken ill when Aidan was only two years old, and she had died. Zarin was inconsolable, he became so distant that he didn't even pay any mind to his young son, who reminded him so much of her. Demi was everything that was kind and loving, and she was the peace that settled his chaotic soul. Without her there was no light, and without light there was nothing. What brought him back was when he had received a visitor, his mother. Lady Krina nil Sylas, who was the one person he did not wish to see at this time. Krina was the sister to the emperor, who couldn't have any children of his own, thus Zarin was heir when his uncle dies. She was a cold-hearted person who didn't really care for anyone save herself, and the only care she gave about Zarin was the fact that he was next in line. She wanted to make sure he was well enough to attend the emperor's birthday celebration, and she wanted him to prepare for guests that would be staying in his home, for her's had no more room, due to other guests. Krina had him open his eyes when she had berated Aidan very unkindly when he had cried. Krina left after informing him that he should hire someone to teach the child manners. After she had gone, Zarin comforted his son, and vowed that he will no longer ignore the child that came from his and Demi's love.
He had told Ryoko at the wedding that she could stay at Fuerza, and train Aidan in combat skills, she agreed. And upon arrival she spotted Aidan and felt a maternal affection for the young son of Zarin. It was love for Aidan that drew her and Zarin closer, along with some circumstances, and they were married. Soon after that, Sophia was born. Out of everything she had done wrong, Sophia was the only thing that she had done right. She had the family she had always dreamed of. A husband and children. Sure Zarin and she loved and cared for each other, but it wasn't the love they had felt for the first people they had cared about. Zarin is still completely devoted to his wife's memory and never fails to forget her. Ryoko had caught that look of longing in his face as he stared at a portrait of Demi. It was the same look she would get whenever she thought of Tenchi, and she didn't need a portrait, she has a daily reminder of him now. Everyone agreed to Zarin's marrying her, except for his mother, who told both him and Ryoko exactly what she thought of the match. Zarin ignored her of course, and the result was that they hadn't heard from Krina ever since. Ryoko studied her family again, and smiled as she listened to Zarin telling the children an old story of warriors and damsels in distress. Despite her longings for another life with another man, she wouldn't trade this life for anything.
***** The Royal Palace Jurai Meanwhile
The royal prince had paced nervously, worry etching his face as he thought anxiously, What's taking so long? The first wife to the Emperor Azusa, Funaho, had baded him to sit down. "Tenchi, please, these things take time and because it's the first, it will take few more hours." She saw that this didn't help so she tried "Ayeka will be fine, she's strong and she's still young, she'll pull through just fine. Besides, Washu is assisting and I can think of no other person in there with Ayeka." Tenchi's features relaxed somewhat and he sat down. He managed a weak smile and said, "Yeah, I guess you're right. If there was anything to go wrong, Washu will be there to save day. It's just that I'm excited and worried at the same time. This is all new to me, and I wonder how I'll hold out after this." Sasami, the blue haired young girl sitting beside him, took his hand and held it. "It'll be ok, Tenchi. Everyone is here for you, and always will be." He smiled. Sasami hadn't changed much, but she had grown a little taller, and her pink eyes looked as if they had Tsunami's infinite knowledge. Ryo- ohki hopped off her head and into his lap, purring as if she was trying to offer Tenchi some form of comfort. He smiled and scratched behind the cabbit's ears. They're right, he thought, everything will turn out alright. Just as he assured himself, Misaki burst out of the chamber with a big smile adorning her face. Startled, everyone stood abruptly and Tenchi suddenly became anxious. "Misaki, everything alright? How is she? How is the...umph!" he was interrupted as Misaki gave him a huge bear hug. After she released him, the only thought that came to his mind was to get air in his lungs quickly. After he managed to breathe, he noticed that Misaki was still beaming and she was beckoning him into the chamber. The first person he sought was his beloved wife, and he was flooded with relief after he spotted her. Her eyes were closed, her violet hair spread out on the pillows, an exhausted yet peaceful smile curved her lips as if she was pleased with some accomplishment. Of course, he thought, she has every right to be. He heard a cough behind him and he turned around to find Washu behind him and Misaki holding a small bundle. Both were grinning. Washu cleared her throat. "Congradulations, Tenchi, you are now the father of a very healthy baby boy." Misaki handed him the bundle very gingerly. He stared down into warm violet eyes like Ayeka's, and tufts of black hair like his own. Emotions swirled within him as he stared at the small result from his love for Ayeka. A soft smile appeared on his lips as he sat down holding his son in his arms. Washu and Misaki smiled at the scene and had decided to leave the three alone and exited the room. After they left, Ayeka opened her eyes and reached out to touch her husband. He started a moment then smiled down at his wife. "Now I get you both to myself.", she smiled sleepily. Tenchi leaned down and kissed his wife's forhead while holding his son close to his heart. "Thank you, love, for giving us a son." he looked at the sleeping bundle then back at her "What are we going to name him?" She thought for a moment, then she took the baby from his father and studied him closely, then smiled as a name came to her "Kino." she looked at her husband and smiled, "Kino Masaki Jurai." After marrying Ayeka, Tenchi had to take on the last name of Jurai. If he was to be the next king, it was required for anyone who married a crowned princess or prince to take on the royal name of Jurai. This was so that any offspring from that union will continue on the royal name of Jurai. Tenchi tested the name on his tongue, sounding it out, then nodded his approval. "Kino." he smiled at his son. Kino it was.
***** The Garwood Jungle The Planet Fuerza 2 years later
Zarin lead his troops through the lush, dense jungle. A segregated country was at odds with the empire because they didn't like the tyrant, as they had put it, that was on the throne. Why did they care? Zarin wondered as the question echoed in his head. They had their own ideas and beliefs, they had their free government who could do as they wish. They had broken off a long time ago and everyone was living peacefully until last year. There were bombings, space raids, threats, and some assasinations of very valuable nobles. The result, war. Zarin didn't want to be in any part of retaliation, for he was in charge of assasinating any of their leaders they were holding ransom, and he was to annihilate the towns or cities of their country. He didn't though. There were so many women and children, and his heart had constricted when he thought about his own family. He saw a little girl that had reminded him so much of his daughter, Sophia. The girl was laughing, and playing with other children her age, and young boy about his own son's age. He told Aidan to watch out for his little sister, that girls had a habit of getting into more mischief than boys. Aidan was a bright child, even though he was seven. Ryoko was training him to become a great swordsman, but when he was old enough, he was to go to an old mentor of his father's. Ryoko had done a wonderful job at training Aidan, he was able to perform many moves and attacks. She had even went as far as to taking him to Earth to visit her old home and to see the former Prince Yosho. He had the appearance of an old man, but he was able handle a sword like he did when he was younger. He gave Aidan some mind exercises and gave him spiritual some spiritual training. She even showed him and Sophia off to her mother. Yosho and Washu had decided to stay on Earth. Yosho wanted to only because his family was buried there and wanted to be close. Washu decided, because she liked her lab location and Earth was peaceful when you didn't have two women fighting nearly everyday. Ryoko also received the news of Ayeka and Tenchi's son, and wanted to know everything about him. After they left, Ryoko was happier than she had ever been, and he was glad he had taken her to Earth. He felt bad for not giving Ryoko all his love. Most of his love was reserved for Demi, his late wife. She was the heart of Fuerza, and would have made a wonderful ruler that his grandmother, Nicholaa, had been. Though he had felt bad about not feeling the same for Ryoko, he knew she would be a leader to the soldiers that reside in the palace, and she would be in charge of all the defenses. He cared a lot for her and was appreciative of what she had done for Aidan. He knew she didn't love him completely, for her love was reserved to the first crowned prince of Jurai. The prince didn't return her feelings, but he had cared for her. Zarin kicked himself over and over for not feeling more for the woman he married, she has done much to atone for the crimes she had committed, and she gave Aidan a mother. Aidan adored Ryoko and wanted to do what was expected of him, even take care of his little sister. A shout brought Zarin on guard and he looked up and saw that the enemy troops were approaching. He shouted out orders for men to make ready for attack. Streaks of orange light whizzed past the army as the enemy had opened fire. Zarin's troops had retaliated by bringing out their blasters and shooting back at their foes. They met the enemy troops head on, and they fought through hand to hand combat and with swords. Zarin kicked a soldier off from him and slashed through one that was in front of him. Two of his noblest soldiers were fighting behind him, watching his back. Rickard D'zan and Tsou Fumata. Rickard was his friend from childhood, whose son was betrothed, without Ryoko's knowledge, to Sophia. Ryoko didn't want her daughter's husbands chosen for her, but for Sophia to choose her own destiny. Zarin didn't want to choose for her either, but it was for her protection in the near future. Tsou was only with him for a year, transferred from a planet whose alliance is questioned, but he proved to be trustworthy, even though Zarin sensed something dark about him. Ryoko didn't trust him at all, and the point clear when Tsou patted little Sophia on the head. She charged up her energy sword and warned him away from her daughter. He heard someone cry his name and as he whirled around, a laser had hit his arm and a sword pierced his stomach. Crying out in pain, he retaliated and jabbed his sword into the person that had wounded him. Despite the pain and the amount of blood he had lost, he continued to fight and the enemy soldiers were so pressed, they retreated. Zarin stood amidst the wounded and killed, breathing heavily as he surveyed the damage. He didn't want to die like this, yet... They say death is a blessing in disguise. He fell to his knees as his world began to dim. Where was that bright light you were supposed to see as you die?, he thought. The light had come, but not as he expected. Visions of Aidan and Sophia had flashed before his eyes, but the last vision that came to him was of the only light in his life, Demi.
***** Sylus, Coraland Royal Capital of Fuerza 2 Days Later
Ryoko sat in her room, staring out her favorite window. Her face was emotionless, but her hands bit into the arms of the polished wooden arms of the chair. The breeze blew through the window, slightly blowing her hair and the light edges of her clothing. Finally, she closed her eyes and leaned her head back. A tear escaped the corner of her eye, making a small trail to her lips. She wiped the tear away as she stared back out the window. She had lost a husband, who was more friend than lover. He was Aidan's father, someone somebody could lean on. He was Sophia's father, she told herself, he was protector, and security. He was also the only friend she had on this planet. His friends would talk to her only if they had to send a message, or to ask for him. The only people she could go to was in Jurai and on Earth, but pride kept her from going to Jurai. She wasn't ready to go and face everybody yet, and she didn't want to go to Earth right now. The reason was that she had a responsibility here on Fuerza. Her thoughts all came to a halt. Responsibility? When had that ever stopped her? She remembered how she used to be when she shrugged off responsibility and ducked out of doing chores. Teasing Ayeka was one of the main highlights of her life, and picking on Tenchi. Tenchi... She wondered how he and Ayeka are holding up, especially now that they have two kids of their own and that they are the rulers of Jurai. They probably hadn't changed like she did. Whatever happened to the old Ryoko, the one who was very rambunctious and liked to cause a lot of mischief. The one who liked to pick on Ayeka and get her all fired up, the one who teased Tenchi unmercifully just to see him get all flustered. The answer immediately came to her. Maturity and motherhood had changed her. Aidan and Sophia had changed her. A sad smile curved her mouth, she had mellowed out over the years, especially after Tenchi and Ayeka's wedding. She heard a heart-broken cry coming from the nursery then she sighed and went to tend her daughter. After she calmed Sophia down she heard a commotion outside. She laid her daughter down and went to see what it was. Captain D'zan was preparing soldiers outside to leave and she questioned him. "What's going on? What is all the commotion about?" The captain studied Ryoko for a moment then hesitated. "Tell me captain, unlike the rest of these women, I don't get shocked easily." He studied her for a moment then gave in "A wounded soldier was carried in this morning, one of the neighboring cities was attacked by the Seperate Fuerzan Union. We believe that they are allied with our outside enemies. We are going to put a stop to their attack and find out who they are fighting with." Ryoko thought for a moment. She remembered that Zarin had always fought with his soldiers as did the other nobles. It was to boost their morale, and to test the loyalty of his soldiers. Now that Zarin was gone, who was to lead them? The captain saw that look on her face and as if he read her mind, stated. "If the lord had died, it is the captain's duty to lead the men in battle, in honor of his lord." "But what if there was another leader, someone who runs the manor after the lord dies?" Ryoko had a very determined look on her face. "Then they come along, but my lady, we have to keep you safe here. If anything happened to you, who's going to protect the young lord and lady?" then he added "We have traitors within the hierarchy, if there is no one to protect the children then they can harm them... Ryoko cut him off "Then I will arrange it for them to go somewhere that they won't come to harm. While I'm away they can stay with one of the laborer's with many children. I am the lady and guardian of this town, I can't sit around and do nothing. What good would I be if I just stayed in the manor just sitting around?" She glared at the captain. The captain stared into her narrowed eyes. He was one of the few skeptics who tried to talk Zarin out of marrying her. Zarin just laughed and told him that she was a completely different person now and he married her anyway. After awhile he saw her as Zarin had saw her and came to learn that she wasn't has evil as he heard the stories of her. He saw her with the children and became fond of her, looking at her now, standing her ground looking very determined, he was a little in love with her. He sighed. "I'll have the men wait for you, but we cannot wait long otherwise there will be nothing but charred remains of a city." Ryoko smiled her delight then nodded, then she left. Ryoko leaned down to look Aidan in the eyes. She smiled warmly and kissed his forehead."Aidan, you and Sophie will stay here in Miss Shira's house while I'm away. I want you to mind her as if she were me and if anyone was to come searching for you, anyone who is bad, you will acknowledge yourself as one of her sons and Sophie as her daughter." Aidan looked up at her with a sad look, one that made her feel as if she was abandoning them. "What if you don't come back? What if you die, like my father?" his silver eyes filled with tears. Ryoko kept her own emotions at bay she kneeled and looked him in the eyes, then smiled warmly. "Don't dwell on that, but if anything were to happen to me, you will go to your mother's family, and Sophie must stay with friends of mine." The thought of being separated from his sister and Ryoko dying must have frightened him, for his face paled. "But... I don't want us to be apart. Why can't Sophie and I stay together?" He hugged Ryoko around the waist. She smiled sagely, "Aidan, if I die, there will be people after you. No one is to know where you stay, not even your grandmother. There are many traitors that lurk about and only people I can trust know where you are going. If anyone were to ask, they will be told you are with your father's relatives, and they are vast. There are those who want to kill the heirs of the empire, and that's you and Sophie." Aidan seemed to understand, for he nodded. Ryoko placed a comforting hand on his shoulder before she picked up Sophia. "And you, my angel, will listen to Aidan. Look up to your big brother and be good for Miss Shira. She risks much by taking in you two, and she already has a big family to care for." Sophia looked at her with her large green eyes, the eyes she had inherited from Washu, and Ryoko knew that she understood. Even at three years old, she understood somehow. Captain D'zan came behind her. "My lady, we must leave in all haste." she nodded then kissed the top of Sophia's head. She set her down and ruffled both children's hair, eliciting laughs from them both, she leaned down and whispered "Smile as I leave, and give me luck." After getting them to smile, she turned around to leave with the men. She turned around and gazed at the children just long enough to memorize their smiles, then she disappeared over the hill with the soldiers.
***** Sylas, Coraland City Outskirts 2 years later
There was something in the air, for the birds were quiet and not a rustle within the trees. The only sound heard was of numerous children playing in the backyard of a small house. Sophia was chasing after a friend of hers that held no name, but her uncle had lovingly named her for an aunt that was lost during child birth and a divinity of her planet. Ceres is what she is called, or when she was with her parents they had called her Kerema, which was translated to 'girl child' in her language. Sophia's friend's parents never loved their daughter who was their only child. Males were highly valued in Ceres' family, and since she was born a girl, her parents had never shown her any love. They never bothered with giving her a name. Ceres was like Sophia in a way. They both held a keen intelligence for their young ages of six and seven. Ceres was speaking four languages by the time she was four and could read adult level books. Sophia may not read such a level yet, but she knew at least three different languages. They could, both, sense things and now they were sensing something foreboding. Ceres stopped and motioned to a woman who was speaking with Sophia's guardian, Shira Nebri. The woman was dressed in a black business suit, and she held a computer like device that was in a case. Shira disappeared into the house with the woman. Shira had shown the woman where she could sit in the dining area of her home. The woman before her placed the computer on the table and turned it on before facing Shira. "Mrs. Nebri, I am Miss Flora Genova, Lord Aidan and Lady Sophia's solicitor. Lady Ryoko has entrusted me with their care until I can deliver them safely to their appointed destinations." Shira, nervously tugging on an aqua strand of hair, looked up at Miss Genova. "So, she was killed as well as Lord Zarin." Miss Genova shook her head. "No, actually there's no way of knowing for sure." She checked her files on the computer, then read off the screen, "She's missing, but she was gravely wounded in a skirmish. They went back to search for her, but she was no where to be found. Captain D'zan has informed me that I am to send the children away until this war is over." She glanced up and saw the woman before her staring out the window, gazing at the two children she currently has in her care. "I had hoped that I would never have to give them any bad news about her. They have been missing her these two years. They are finally interacting with the other children." Miss Genova's heart went out to the other woman. Shira was well known for caring for orphans in the city. She had fostered them and cared for them as if they were her own. When there was a couple who wanted children, Shira would have them to adopt one of her orphans. Flora Genova was one of those who admired caring people. "I will take the responsibility. You can ready their belongings while I give them the news. As I said, Lady Ryoko is just missing. Until a body is found, they can just live on the hope that she is still alive." And so she left the small house to find the children, and gave them the news. An hour later they had left the planet they had grown up on.
Note: This wasn't as good as I originally planned it. I had it the way I wanted it and was about to send it until it just disappeared. If there are any grammatical errors, I'm sorry, for I have done this without my trusty spell and grammar check. I have grown far too dependent on that feature. Also I'm terrible at giving names, but these characters are least likely to appear again. Ceres is my character that I am currently writing a story on. She will be in future chapters as Sophia's best friend, and Aidan is the name I had taken from Ceres's uncle, except his name is spelled Aden. My next chapter should be better than this one. I had typed this all in one day when the original had taken about two months to work on. I would like to thank my family and friends who had encouraged me in everything I do, and those reading my fanfiction for giving me their thoughts, opinions, and advice. Thank you for taking your time to read my work.