Life Changes:
Chapter 08: Tumbling Down
Okayawa General:
Some called the late shift the graveyard shift, and Nurse Joy hated the notion. The hallways were devoid of life, save herself and indeed on quiet nights like this one she felt like the last living creature on earth. Nervously she checked her charts, wondering if it was time for her to make the rounds. Things aren't quiet as glamorous as I thought, she realized thinking back to her notions of what nursing would be like when she was a graduate student. It seems like I see more people come in sick, than I see people going out healthy. Stopping at one chart she shook her head sadly. It was the saddest of all the cases she had seen in her life. Pausing a moment to brush a loose red hair from her face Joy swallowed hard. Her most dreaded task was watching a young person fade away. Just this afternoon she had seen a whole troupe of friends and, she guessed, family come to see the fallen officer, and it had been Joy's duty to tell the young man that Officer Hakubi would probably not have very much longer to live. Most of all, the green-eyed nurse sighed as she flipped through her copy of Sylvia's health charts, I hate this waiting. Waiting for someone to pass away before I tell the family the terrible news. Feeling tears welling in her eyes she fought hard against them. This isn't what I wanted with my life. I always thought doctors and nurses were supposed to be modern miracle workers that they could save anyone! But all I've seen is machines that drag out suffering. I just wish once I could see one of those miracles I've heard about in all my classes.
Before the situation could get any worse, a room light began to buzz loudly and flash just as a police siren. Instantly Joy was on her feet, moving swiftly, but not fast. She already knew what the signal meant, the patient had flat-lined, and the room was the officer's. By the time anyone could reach her, no matter how fast they were, Sylvia Hakubi would be dead. The miracle of life overcoming death would once again be only a dream. As she reached the door, Joy hesitated a nanosecond before she threw open the door. The sight she beheld caused her held back tears to escape and race down her face to the floor. Sylvia would no longer be resting in her care, and it was time to make an important telephone call.
The Masaki House:
Near the middle of the night, Tenchi Masaki finally fell asleep in the living room. No sooner had he rested his tired heard on the couch than the phone rang. Instantly he was on his feet. A cold sweat came over him as he wondered what news he was about to receive. As he reached for the receiver, all hell broke loose, and the phone call went unanswered.
Numerous explosions racked the quaint home, sending glass shards soaring in shredding all in their path. Jerking to one side, the brown-haired youth threw one arm over his eyes hoping to save his vision. Suddenly a small child cried out from above, causing Tenchi's blood to freeze in his heart. "Sasami," he yelled recognizing the voice. "Don't worry, I'm-" As the Jurain youth called out another sound filled his ears, a low clunking sound followed by a hiss. What's that smell? Oh, it's just gas. Before another thought could cross his mind, the brown-haired boy swayed and lost consciousness.
At that instant the broom closet door burst open, and out leapt a small red- haired woman with a large laser rifle and a gas mask. "Tenchi, get everyone out of here. I don't know who it is, but someone's attacking us and I think they're playing dirty." Scanning the area Washu could not locate her companion through the dense smoke. "Tenchi? Where are you?"
"You should worry more about yourself than the boy," a sinister voice declared with amusement. Spinning on her heels the emerald-eyed genius made a gasping noise as she realize who had invaded her home. It also explained why her sensors could not detect his presence, and made it painfully obvious who had destroyed her daughter's body. Yet this information came to late to be of any real use. With relative ease the large man slipped a strange medallion with snakes adorning its perimeter around her neck. As soon as it touched her body the red-haired genius collapsed her mind cut off from her body.
"You are Ryoko are so easy. I suppose it was the one trait you did pass on to her, like mother like daughter as they say." The attacker chuckled as he scooped up the fallen Washu. "Besting the two of you is no longer challenging." Looking up through his glasses Kagato nodded his approval. The gas would not affect him, as it was designed not to, and even if it could his gems would reduce the effects to a minimal. An evil smile creased his face as he basked in the glory of his victory. "I really did expect more from the people who killed me," he mused. "If only Ryoko were still alive, she might have offered me some entertainment. But I suppose that's just wishful thinking." Looking over his shoulder the white-haired madman motioned to one of his heavily armed minions. Moving lethargically the minion took Washu from his arms. "Gather up everyone, and tie them up here. But do not, I repeat, do not; remove anything from their persons. Am I clear on this? The equipment they are carrying is deadly and despite appearances very high tech. Compromising its structure will have dire consequences."
With a sharp intake of air from his tank, the black leather clad figure nodded before leading a team of three other identical looking men up the flight of stairs.
"Lord Kagato," an electronic voice called from the communicator on Kagato's wrist. "We are in position."
"Good," Washu's apprentice commanded with a smile as a cloud of smoke passed his face creating a fearsome shadow in the moonlight. "Proceed, but remember. Leave him alive. He is, after all, quiet old and very important to my plans." A loud thump from the stairs caught his attention and the yellow-eyed scientist once again smiled as he saw the young princesses Sasami and Ayeka being carried unconscious down the stairs by two of his loyal followers. Everything proceeded as planned. Ryoko was dead, burned alive after being beaten by his hands; the boy was unconscious before him; his former mentor was bound in shackles; and the Jurain princesses were now in his grasp. Nothing could possibly go wrong now.
The Shrine:
Just as life was turned upside down at the house, the ancient Masaki shrine lost its nightly innocence and became a war-zone. Like living shadows dozens of men with silver-colored gas masks and black jumpsuits melted into the old building, weapons drawn. They appeared to be bulbous creatures from the waist up, with protrusions that were their arms and legs coming from the central sphere.
Despite the stealth they gained from their wonderfully advanced technology each of Kagato's soldiers were shocked to find the Shinto priest not only awake, but armed with a wooden bokken, and standing at the center of the shrine. "I don't suppose you would leave without making a fuss, would you? Or perhaps we could discuss this matter over tea?" To answer Katsuhito's questions twelve guns pointed at his chest simultaneously. "I thought not. Well then," the old Shinto priest said with a weary sigh. "I suppose we'll have to do things the hard way." As he raised his bokken to attack, a sharp pain winced through his heart, and the Jurain heir fell to one knee. So intense was the pain that tears welled in his eyes. He had not been struck, nor shot, but knew something had changed and threatened to suck the life from his body.
I'm dying, he realized with horror. After well over 700 years, I am dying. But why now, what has changed? The Tenchi-ken is still infused with Ryoko's gems, which sustain Funaho, Ryoko, and myself. So why.Suddenly the answer came to him. Something must have changed. Ryoko must be.another convulsion in his chest caused the old priest to loose his grip on his sword, and it felt uselessly to his side.
Slowly the leather-clad intruder in front of him eased forward, booting the suffering priest to his back. Rising up one wrist he spoke into his watch. "Sir, it seems the old man is having a heart attack. Please advise."
"I thought I said to leave him alive," Kagato's voice hissed over the communicator. Instantly Prince Yosho's eyes widened as he recognized the voice.
"Yes sir, we arrived. He began to resist, then simply collapsed."
For long moments only silence came as a reply. Finally the evil scientist answered. "Interesting. Very well, post a guard and keep watch over him. He is tricky and might be trying to pull something. Keep me informed."
Later: The Masaki House:
As the last of the knockout gas drifted out of the multiple windows of the red-roofed home, Kagato paced the comfortable home alone. His men waited outside, while he prepared his interrogation. It was the one thing he knew in this life he would enjoy above all else, save his assent to godhood when he assimilated the Tsunami unit. Everything around him sickened him. This world is nothing more than a ball of mud with insects rolling their own waste into homes. I've seen craters with more intelligence. Pausing he glared at the television and scoffed. Their communications are so primitive they may as well use tin cans and strings. No holo-screens, no instant transports. It's a wonder anything intelligent ever occurs on this world. Yet his continual disgust at Earth's existence would have to wait, as a low moan came from behind him. There was the entire Tenchi family, minus Ryoko or Prince Yosho, bound back to back with rope as they slept under the influence of his gas. Returning to his captives he knelt before the awaking youth. "Good-evening, prince Tenchi." He laughed to himself.
With a sharp sniff, the young man looked up horror in his eyes. "Kagato! But I killed-"
"You killed nothing more than a shadow, boy!" To emphasize his greatness the villain rose up to tower over Tenchi. "Now tell me, where is it?"
"Where's what?" the Jurain prince groaned still weak from the gas.
"Don't play coy with me," Kagato growled. "The sword! The master key! I must have it if I am to take control of Tsunami. Thanks to you I have lost the Soja, and with it all my wonderful tools. Now tell me, where is your sword!"
"Why should I tell you?" Tenchi responded feeling his anger burning
away the affects of the gas.
Breathing hard the old apprentice of Washu nodded. "You know you're right. Why should you? There really is no good explanation I could offer I suppose. But you should know that if you give me what I want then we will never meet again."
"Do. not. do it Lord Tenchi," Ayeka said slowly coming out of her gas- induced slumber. "He cannot be trusted."
"Lady Aye-ka," the villain mused. "Always a pleasure. But of course the two of you are really in no position to deny me anything. I hold all the cards. Your grandfather is dying at the shrine, and I have but to give the word and he'll be compost. Add to the fact that there is no one who could possibly come to your rescue, as I have personally made sure that Ryoko is taken care of.
"It was you!" Sasami gasped as she too awoke. "How could you be so mean? Why are you here?"
"Princess Sasami," he began, walking around the gathered extended family to reach her. "All I want is Tsunami; nothing more, nothing less. Simply give her to me and I will gladly leave."
"Never!" the blue-haired girl shouted. "You're evil!" Rearing back one hand Kagato scowled like a feral beast as he drew back to strike the wincing child. Just as he prepared to do so, he stopped a smile returning to his face.
"Fear not little one, I wont hurt you. Tsunami always arises to save you from harm." Walking to stand before them all he nodded in satisfaction. Presenting one gloved hand he summoned a small green fireball. "Which leaves me with an interesting idea. You see it has just occurred to me that since tsunami protects Sasami, then if she were in mortal danger Tsunami would have to appear." Moving the flame to one side he gently touched the wall, causing the area touched to ignite. "Perhaps say if you were to be burned alive?" Tossing the fireball aside Kagato nodded as he created another emerald flame and began to burn more of their home. "Of course if I am wrong, which I doubt I am, then I'll just have to settle for revenge on all of you. I know what you're thinking, but you'll die too Kagato. But I'm afraid not, you see I can leave her at any time. I still have the power to teleport. You however can't move thanks to the ropes. So you will die. Of course I could save you, but you'll have to tell me what I want to know, and give me what I want."
"Don't do it Sasami," Kiyone said trying to wiggle free from the ropes. "Its not worth it. You can't trust him." As she spoke another fireball struck the support beam above them. It became obvious to those would could see it that if they weren't burned alive they would be crushed by the collapsing building.
"But I don't wanna die," Noboyuki groaned, tears pouring from his eye in a vain attempt to quell the flames.
"On the bright side, we'll get to see Ryoko again," Mihoshi smiled, just as a loud crack came from above and the large wooden support beam came crashing down.
The Shrine: Having seized the shrine, the black warriors of Kagato left two men outside to watch for intruders. After a few minutes of nothing changing one man motioned to the other. "I don't see why he have to watch a stupid shrine in the mountains." He whined. "I mean what's so great about some old guy anyway."
"I have no idea," the first man replied. "But the boss said tonight he was getting even or something. I guess these guys are the family of some techno-tycoon or something. All I know is we get to blow up stuff and shoot cool high-tech stuff. So cool it, Heldata."
"Yeah, I guess so," the man called Heldata grumbled heading towards the stair edge, as his companion headed towards the shrine doors. As Heldata reached the ledge, a small sound came to his attention. "What was that? It sound-" At that instant something lunged from the shadows striking the black-clad man hard, instantly removing him from consciousness.
"Sorry, Hedalta, but that was a fist that hit you." The attacker said with a smile while cocking the laser cannon with her only available hand. "Not too shabby, but I've seen better." Looking up the attacker fired a quick shot at the shrine knocking the other guard out before he had a moment to turn or react.
"What was that?" a voice called from inside the shrine. "Sounds like trouble outside, go check it out." Scarcely a moment later two guards ran out. Twin shots filled the night and the intruders were instantly nullified.
"Too jerky for my taste. Although I like something with thrusting power, I think Kagato was compensating for something with these." Turning the rifle over in her hands, she smirked, as she looked it over, before heading into the ancient shrine leaving the downed, but not dead, guards writhing where they had fallen.
Instantly she realized it was a set up. Yosho knelt in pain at the center of the room, clutching his chest tightly. Sweat poured down the Jurain noble's face and she knew his pain was genuine, not an act as these men seemed to think. Without missing a beat she continued to glide across the room, and soon found herself completely surrounded by Kagato's minions whose disrupters were aimed and ready. "Drop the gun, cutie, and get on the ground. I don't know who you are, but no one- "
Not wasting a moment, the lithe woman's arm shot up and she fired in rapid succession. In the blink of an eye each of her assailants fell, immobilized as they suffered from her non -lethal shots. In the entire battle her attention never left her target, the man at the center of the room, despite the danger around her. Tossing the gun aside like a bored child would an old toy she knelt beside Yosho and smiled as she addressed the fallen men. "No, of course you don't know who I am. That's your biggest mistake."
"Ryoko," Lord Katsuhito gasped, seeing her clearly now. Once again she donned her red and black battle suit, and seemed to no longer suffer from any of her previous ailments. "But you were dy-"
"It wouldn't have been a warriors death, would it?" She smiled back, revealing her formerly unseen hand. While her right arm had been busy, in her left arm was the Tenchi-ken. Her left hand was wrapped tightly with bandages that possessed minor charred marks. Taking his hand in hers Ryoko slammed the hilt in his hand. "Take this damn thing back. Now I want you to know I love Tenchi and all, but he really needs to watch his things. I mean I'm not always going to be around to take care of him. " The failing Jurain merely gasped as he tried to chuckle. "We have to do something about that cough.." Rising to her feet, the silver haired woman extended her arms and closed both eyes. A glow soon covered her body like her red and black battle suite, but then the gem on her ear vanished, reappearing on the sword hilt. Instantly Lord Katsuhito looked relived. "So," she noted coolly. "We both need my gems."
"Yes," the old looking warrior added as he slowly got to his feet. "But you must hurry. There is still grave danger. Kagato has-"
Suddenly Ryoko held up a hand silencing him as she sniffed loudly. "Smoke. there's a fire at the house!" Turning she glared daggers at her former enemy. "I have to go." As she teleported away, Katsuhito noticed something he hadn't before.
Ryoko still bears injuries, on her heart and body. I fear the trial ahead may be too much for her. Even with two of her gems, she still needs time to rest and heal. She may save Tenchi and the others, but at what cost?
The House:
Flame climbed up the walls of the Masaki home, crackling with a terrible roar as it consumed everything in its path. Yet the popping sound of the fire was overshadowed by the resonating boom of the weaken support beam above starting to become free from the wall. As one the extended family winced in preparation for their demise. Weakened from the gas, and bound together, made escape impossible. The only one who could save them lay dying in a hospital bed in town. There was only one other person available to save them from their current plight, Kagato. However they knew that the devil that had captured them was not going to save them, at least not without a price. Yet it was a price none of them were willing to pay. Thus with a final crack the huge beam fell and the yellowed eyed man threw his head back and laughed darkly as Tenchi and his family shuddered at their final moments.
Instead of a loud crash only a gentle thump occurred followed by mild cursing. "Damn, this thing is heavy, and hot."
As one Kagato and the Masaki clan looked to the owner, and with voices mixed with horror and joy all shouted one name. "Ryoko!"
Holding the flaming beam on her shoulder, the silver haired woman grinned. "Sorry I'm late, I had to do something about my hair. You wouldn't believe how hard it was to shave off all that colored crap. Thankfully mine grows back pretty quick. I'm much cuter with cyan hair, don't you think?" To accent her point she playfully tossed her wild hair with her bandaged hand, before returning it to her side.
"I should have known you wouldn't die easy, Ryoko." Kagato hissed while casually summoning emerald power before him. "But I suppose I should be grateful for a chance to take you apart one more time."
"You tried to kill Tenchi," Ryoko said with a venomous voice, "again." Leaning back she rolled the flaming support post into her hand and chucked it towards her adversary as easily as others might throw a ball. Kagato started, trying his best to create a shield from the gathered power, but he was too late, and instead could barely muffle the impact of the flaming column as it slammed into him and took him through the house and obliterating the wall. For only a second the lithe woman allowed herself to think that the nightmare was over, but in her heart she knew it wasn't true. Fashioning an energy blade with her free hand, she sliced the bindings from her friends as the fire raged on around them. "Everyone get outside. I'll finish Kagato."
Rising to his feet, Tenchi rubbed his wrists as he tired to steady himself. "Ryoko, let me help you. You know Kagato's powerful, and you still look inj-"
With neck breaking speed, the golden-eyed woman glared at him. "Kagato-is- mine," she hissed and without another word the former space pirate soared out the hole in the wall after her former master.
Outside:
It only took a few moments before the Masaki family found another way out, and soon the heat of the house was behind them. "See, Tenchi, you always complained when you were younger and I told you to have an escape route in case of fire. Now aren't you glad we practiced, and -oof" Noboyuki groaned as he slammed into his sons back while carrying Washu's still unconscious form. "What's going on? Why are. oh." He moaned seeing the army of weapon carrying minions who surrounded their burning home. The odds were, at best, 4 to one.
"Lord Tenchi," Ayeka said in disgust. "Please allow me to rid you of these vermin. They have not only defiled the sanctity of our home, but also reduced my noble clothing to tattered rags." Casting the purple-haired princess a look, the young man had to smile. Ayeka's 'tattered rags' were still leaps and bounds beyond anything anyone one Earth possessed, even if the fringes were slightly burned.
As the swarms of minions poured in, Tenchi could only say one thing. "No, Ayeka. This isn't your fight. We'll have to do it." It took only a moment before Ayeka had transformed into her Jurain battle suit. Lacking her finesse at transforming, the Jurain prince allowed his emotions to do his work and soon was basked in the radiant glory of the Lighthawk wings. "We'll hold them off, the rest of you find someplace safe, and see if you can't help wake Washu." Without a second more to waste the duo was off, Ayeka's energy shield deflecting blasts while Tenchi threw up his own Lighthawk defenses. In a few seconds they had managed to trample halfway through the black clad minions.
"I hate this," Kiyone growled as they ran with Washu's limp body further out on the docks towards the Onsen's path. "What are we going to do? I don't know anything about treating unconscious victims."
"Hey, this thing is pretty," Mihoshi chimed in playing with the huge amulet around Washu's neck. "Do you think Washu might let me burrow it sometime? I wonder where she got it? It reminds me of something, but I don't remember what. You know it sure looks nice. Speaking of nice wasn't it nice to see Ryoko again? She sure looked better to me, and-"
"Mihoshi will you leave that thing alone!" the black-haired woman snapped at her slower partner. "I don't know where Washu got it, it's the first time I've ever seen it before."
Studying the sleeping genius, Sasami seemed perplexed. "Where did you
see it before Mihoshi?"
"Hmm.. Let me think.." The blonde detective began, placing a tanned finger to her lips. "When was that.?"
Great at the rate she remembers we'll be here all night. Kiyone groaned with sorrow.
"Maybe if I seen it closer," she decided, removing the amulet from around Washu's neck. Instantly the little genius sat up a shocked look on her face.
"Get rid of that thing!" Washu demanded, typing on her keyboard frantically as she did. Beside the ditzy blond a subspace portal opened.
"Do you mean now?"
"YES!" the greatest genius in the universe decreed. "Do it now!" With a shrug Mihoshi set the amulet in the hole and watched as it vanished in an instant. It only took that moment for Washu to assess the situation. Above all else she felt the fury of her daughter coming from nearby. It warmed her heart to know Ryoko was alive, yet at the same time she felt a terrible weariness coming from behind that rage. Before her Tenchi and Ayeka darted around like fireflies in the night, occasionally swooping into a sea of darkness only to rise above it once again. Beyond all this the Masaki home burned like a giant candle. "So why aren't you two in there fighting? "
"Our guns are still inside," Kiyone said angrily. "I usually don't SLEEP with my weapon on me."
"Is that all," the emerald-eyed woman laughed typing once again on her keyboard. Soon a portal opened and out popped two GP issue blasters. "Here you go," she giggled. "Have fun."
Cocking the new weapon, the first class detective felt ill at ease to see how easy the universe's number one genius broke in and stole their technology. This is definitely something I'll have to talk to her about later.. Kiyone told herself, before rushing into the fray, doing her best to disarm the highly armed humans. Mihoshi followed a few steps behind, complaining about how scared she was and politely asking everyone to surrender.
"So what do we do?" Noboyuki swallowed, fearful he might be sent into battle.
"Do?" Washu said a dark shadow overcoming her face. Only a twinkle of light from one eye escaped the darkness. "There's only one thing to do." as the middle-aged man winced Washu whirled about and soon sat with Sasami and Ryo-Ohki upon a checkered blanket with various foods. "We sit back and enjoy the show!" Sasami and her cabbit friend shouted their enjoyment as they dug into the goodies all around them, as Noboyuki collapsed in shock. "Good thing I keep a sampling of your cooking for just such an occasion, pass the cake would you Sasami dear."
Near the house:
Ryoko and Kagato stood locked in combat. The lithe woman wielded her blade in one hand, grinding it upon the emerald sword of Kagato's. Each warrior gritted their teeth in an attempt to gain dominance in their epic struggle. "You know what Ryoko," the evil genius cooed, as he began to push her back. "I'm not going to kill you. I've decided against that. No, you're going to be my slave again. Once I beat you into submission, things can go back to normal."
Back to. Ryoko panicked feeling her strength fade as she imagined the horror of once again being Kagato's slave. This only gave her former captor more ground. Images of her past flickered in her mind like miniature flames, igniting countless more memories she would have just soon forget. "No," she hissed thrusting out her other hand and firing a crimson blast. The energy tore her bandages from her semi-charred hand, showing the injuries were not as dire as she had made it seem. "I'll never go back to you! Never!" Crimson power gathered in her hand, but before she could fire Kagato beamed away. Snapping her head up, Ryoko followed his motions and teleported after him. Time and again the duo transported themselves the evil tormentor always staying a fraction of a step ahead of his former slave and thus barely avoiding her crimson blasts. After several teleports he stopped high in the sky.
"Boo." She said from behind him. Spinning the white-haired man knew he was doomed. "You really don't think much of me, do you Kagato?" Ryoko sneered with joy as she fired at the white skinned man, who instantly vaporized. "To think I couldn't tell a shadow from the real thing. I just want to watch you die as many times as I can." From her vantage point high above, the silver-haired woman surveyed the forested area beneath her. For centuries she had known him, by sight, by feel, by sound, and most of all by smell. His reek was one she would never forget. Drifting forward with the grace of a ballet dancer, the former slave grinned as she soared downward in a power dive.
The path:
The quiet passage leading from Tenchi's home to the shrine was no longer quiet. Like a madman Kagato raced up the cement steps. "How could this happen," he growled. "How could Ryoko have survived? She was dead! I saw her fall! How-" Before he could ask himself another question, the pavement before him exploded, causing him to stagger backward. As the dust settled, Kagato moved his hand from protecting his face watching a form take shape in the falling debris.
"Where are you going, master?" Ryoko asked as she slowly glided out of the crater her arms held palm out at her side. "I came looking for you. I thought you'd want to take me with you. I mean I'm not as weak as before," at this moment she emerged from the column of dust with twin points of red light glowing on her wrists. "See, I got my gems back. So I'm a lot stronger."
Kagato's stomach dropped. It all made sense now, how Ryoko could survive and how she had regained so much strength. With her gems back there was no way he could best her with his meager energy weapons. He could only watch in terror as she glided towards him a smile as vicious as those he used to cast her when she was at his mercy. When she was only a few feet away he finally noticed something. A small trail of blood, now semidry, ran from one of the wounds on her arms. She's not completely synchronized with her gems, he mused. Which means.. Reaching into his robes the emerald-wearing villain readied himself.
At last Ryoko leveled herself to look him square in eyes, reaching out she grasped her tormentor by the throat, slowly squeezing. This is it. Finally I'll be free. It was then she heard the click. Looking to the source the golden-eyed pirate had to cross her eyes as she looked down the barrel of Kagato's primitive Earth ballistic weapon. It was a crude weapon firing an explosive metal shell as opposed to a laser blast.
"I have a theory," he gasped. "If I fire now, you won't be able to regenerate. Not from a headshot. Even you need your brain, Ryoko. Despite the fact you rarely use it. I know what you're thinking, you could snap by neck, but would that be before or after I pull the trigger? Well Ryoko? Do you think you can live without a head? Go ahead, either let me go, or die."
No. she gasped. NO! I came so far! I was so close! I don't want to die, but. but I've never been hit in the head before, not hard enough to kill me at least. I. I. feeling her adrenaline rush fade; Ryoko released him from her hand. "I should have known you'd cheat." Falling to her knees, the beaten woman bowed her head, feeling very weak all of a sudden.
"No," Kagato mused placing the barely right against her forehead. "You should have known I'd win."
Breathing out one last time, Ryoko smiled as she looked up at her tormentor. "Good-bye, Kagato." Mimicking her grin he nodded.
"Goodbye, Ryoko."
The House:
Just as the last adversary fell before the combined might of Tenchi, Ayeka, Kiyone, and even Mihoshi, a shot rang out in the night sending chills down everyone's spine. It was not the sound of a high tech laser, but a ballistic weapon resounding in the night. At first no one knew what to make of it, but as soon as Washu rose to her feet, everyone panicked. Then nothing else rang out, only silence. No one moved for fear they might shatter the silence and start the shots up again. Silence hung over the area like a shroud. For nearly a full minute no one moved.
Then the sound of sliding footsteps came from the darkness. It started off faint, but grew louder as time went on. Soon the vague outline of someone could be seen. A full minute later thanks to the fire engulfing their home Ryoko could be seen. A red trail of blood ran from her head, and she winced as she walked, even cradling her previously bandaged hand as if it were broken. Everyone gasped to see her, and she sheepishly looked away. "Go ahead and say it, Ayeka." She swallowed feeling the insult coming. "I know a shot to my head might not matter, there's nothing there right?"
To the surprise of everyone around, Ayeka rushed to her rival, transforming to her regular robes. As soon as she reached Ryoko the purple haired woman threw her arms emphatically around her neck. Although she tried to scream tears muffled the red-eyed princess's words as she squeezed the injured space pirates neck tightly. "You stupid woman! How dare you scare me like that! Do you have any idea what I've been going through because of your reckless, uncouth behavior? Were we on planet Jurai I'd have you put in chains for this!"
Releasing Ryoko, she sniffed loudly in spite of herself while the others moved in. "Regardless, welcome home, Ryoko."
"Thanks, Ayeka," the silvery-haired vixen replied fighting back her own tears with nearly no success.
"Ryoko! Ryoko!" Sasami shouted half-skipping and half-running to her old friends position. "What was that shot? What happened to your head? How could you get better so fast?"
"It was your visit kid," she answered patting the little princess on the head tenderly with her good arm. "That's how I got better."
So he shot you in the head, Washu declared. Smart move phasing out at the last moment, but it looks like you could have been a little quicker. Still, I suppose some of my genius did rub off on you, Little Ryoko.
Like hell it did, MOM! Ryoko sneered as she fought off Mihoshi's crippling hugs to her tender spots and tried to show affection to Ryo-Ohki and Sasami who clung to her like a wet towel. Maybe you'd like to test your reflexes someday? I wouldn't mind holding the gun for you. Oh, and since you asked, yes I did kill Kagato. It wasn't too hard really. Like most guys he fired his ammo and then was too stunned to stop my shot.
Such a foul mouth and vulgar metaphors, the red-haired mother declared. I guess some things never change.
Making no reply, Ryoko merely flashed a smile as she said hello to Kiyone and glared a warning at Noboyuki so he would not try to cop a feel of her while showing his excitement at seeing her.
"Welcome back, Ryoko" Tenchi said from the outside of the crowd. As he spoke the world seemed to fade around the space pirate and prince. The only thing she seen was the light from the fire.
Ryoko felt a deep need to be held welling up inside her, and her knees no longer seemed fit to hold her weight, but just as she leaned forward to allow him to catch her, sirens filled the air and police cars, ambulances, and fire trucks arrived on the scene.
With a sigh, the lithe woman shook her head. Sometimes the more things change; the more they stay the same..
Next Time: Well Kagato's defeated and Ryoko's home. Seems everyone is happy now, right? If you believe that, then you haven't been reading from the beginning. Be here for the epic conclusion.
Okayawa General:
Some called the late shift the graveyard shift, and Nurse Joy hated the notion. The hallways were devoid of life, save herself and indeed on quiet nights like this one she felt like the last living creature on earth. Nervously she checked her charts, wondering if it was time for her to make the rounds. Things aren't quiet as glamorous as I thought, she realized thinking back to her notions of what nursing would be like when she was a graduate student. It seems like I see more people come in sick, than I see people going out healthy. Stopping at one chart she shook her head sadly. It was the saddest of all the cases she had seen in her life. Pausing a moment to brush a loose red hair from her face Joy swallowed hard. Her most dreaded task was watching a young person fade away. Just this afternoon she had seen a whole troupe of friends and, she guessed, family come to see the fallen officer, and it had been Joy's duty to tell the young man that Officer Hakubi would probably not have very much longer to live. Most of all, the green-eyed nurse sighed as she flipped through her copy of Sylvia's health charts, I hate this waiting. Waiting for someone to pass away before I tell the family the terrible news. Feeling tears welling in her eyes she fought hard against them. This isn't what I wanted with my life. I always thought doctors and nurses were supposed to be modern miracle workers that they could save anyone! But all I've seen is machines that drag out suffering. I just wish once I could see one of those miracles I've heard about in all my classes.
Before the situation could get any worse, a room light began to buzz loudly and flash just as a police siren. Instantly Joy was on her feet, moving swiftly, but not fast. She already knew what the signal meant, the patient had flat-lined, and the room was the officer's. By the time anyone could reach her, no matter how fast they were, Sylvia Hakubi would be dead. The miracle of life overcoming death would once again be only a dream. As she reached the door, Joy hesitated a nanosecond before she threw open the door. The sight she beheld caused her held back tears to escape and race down her face to the floor. Sylvia would no longer be resting in her care, and it was time to make an important telephone call.
The Masaki House:
Near the middle of the night, Tenchi Masaki finally fell asleep in the living room. No sooner had he rested his tired heard on the couch than the phone rang. Instantly he was on his feet. A cold sweat came over him as he wondered what news he was about to receive. As he reached for the receiver, all hell broke loose, and the phone call went unanswered.
Numerous explosions racked the quaint home, sending glass shards soaring in shredding all in their path. Jerking to one side, the brown-haired youth threw one arm over his eyes hoping to save his vision. Suddenly a small child cried out from above, causing Tenchi's blood to freeze in his heart. "Sasami," he yelled recognizing the voice. "Don't worry, I'm-" As the Jurain youth called out another sound filled his ears, a low clunking sound followed by a hiss. What's that smell? Oh, it's just gas. Before another thought could cross his mind, the brown-haired boy swayed and lost consciousness.
At that instant the broom closet door burst open, and out leapt a small red- haired woman with a large laser rifle and a gas mask. "Tenchi, get everyone out of here. I don't know who it is, but someone's attacking us and I think they're playing dirty." Scanning the area Washu could not locate her companion through the dense smoke. "Tenchi? Where are you?"
"You should worry more about yourself than the boy," a sinister voice declared with amusement. Spinning on her heels the emerald-eyed genius made a gasping noise as she realize who had invaded her home. It also explained why her sensors could not detect his presence, and made it painfully obvious who had destroyed her daughter's body. Yet this information came to late to be of any real use. With relative ease the large man slipped a strange medallion with snakes adorning its perimeter around her neck. As soon as it touched her body the red-haired genius collapsed her mind cut off from her body.
"You are Ryoko are so easy. I suppose it was the one trait you did pass on to her, like mother like daughter as they say." The attacker chuckled as he scooped up the fallen Washu. "Besting the two of you is no longer challenging." Looking up through his glasses Kagato nodded his approval. The gas would not affect him, as it was designed not to, and even if it could his gems would reduce the effects to a minimal. An evil smile creased his face as he basked in the glory of his victory. "I really did expect more from the people who killed me," he mused. "If only Ryoko were still alive, she might have offered me some entertainment. But I suppose that's just wishful thinking." Looking over his shoulder the white-haired madman motioned to one of his heavily armed minions. Moving lethargically the minion took Washu from his arms. "Gather up everyone, and tie them up here. But do not, I repeat, do not; remove anything from their persons. Am I clear on this? The equipment they are carrying is deadly and despite appearances very high tech. Compromising its structure will have dire consequences."
With a sharp intake of air from his tank, the black leather clad figure nodded before leading a team of three other identical looking men up the flight of stairs.
"Lord Kagato," an electronic voice called from the communicator on Kagato's wrist. "We are in position."
"Good," Washu's apprentice commanded with a smile as a cloud of smoke passed his face creating a fearsome shadow in the moonlight. "Proceed, but remember. Leave him alive. He is, after all, quiet old and very important to my plans." A loud thump from the stairs caught his attention and the yellow-eyed scientist once again smiled as he saw the young princesses Sasami and Ayeka being carried unconscious down the stairs by two of his loyal followers. Everything proceeded as planned. Ryoko was dead, burned alive after being beaten by his hands; the boy was unconscious before him; his former mentor was bound in shackles; and the Jurain princesses were now in his grasp. Nothing could possibly go wrong now.
The Shrine:
Just as life was turned upside down at the house, the ancient Masaki shrine lost its nightly innocence and became a war-zone. Like living shadows dozens of men with silver-colored gas masks and black jumpsuits melted into the old building, weapons drawn. They appeared to be bulbous creatures from the waist up, with protrusions that were their arms and legs coming from the central sphere.
Despite the stealth they gained from their wonderfully advanced technology each of Kagato's soldiers were shocked to find the Shinto priest not only awake, but armed with a wooden bokken, and standing at the center of the shrine. "I don't suppose you would leave without making a fuss, would you? Or perhaps we could discuss this matter over tea?" To answer Katsuhito's questions twelve guns pointed at his chest simultaneously. "I thought not. Well then," the old Shinto priest said with a weary sigh. "I suppose we'll have to do things the hard way." As he raised his bokken to attack, a sharp pain winced through his heart, and the Jurain heir fell to one knee. So intense was the pain that tears welled in his eyes. He had not been struck, nor shot, but knew something had changed and threatened to suck the life from his body.
I'm dying, he realized with horror. After well over 700 years, I am dying. But why now, what has changed? The Tenchi-ken is still infused with Ryoko's gems, which sustain Funaho, Ryoko, and myself. So why.Suddenly the answer came to him. Something must have changed. Ryoko must be.another convulsion in his chest caused the old priest to loose his grip on his sword, and it felt uselessly to his side.
Slowly the leather-clad intruder in front of him eased forward, booting the suffering priest to his back. Rising up one wrist he spoke into his watch. "Sir, it seems the old man is having a heart attack. Please advise."
"I thought I said to leave him alive," Kagato's voice hissed over the communicator. Instantly Prince Yosho's eyes widened as he recognized the voice.
"Yes sir, we arrived. He began to resist, then simply collapsed."
For long moments only silence came as a reply. Finally the evil scientist answered. "Interesting. Very well, post a guard and keep watch over him. He is tricky and might be trying to pull something. Keep me informed."
Later: The Masaki House:
As the last of the knockout gas drifted out of the multiple windows of the red-roofed home, Kagato paced the comfortable home alone. His men waited outside, while he prepared his interrogation. It was the one thing he knew in this life he would enjoy above all else, save his assent to godhood when he assimilated the Tsunami unit. Everything around him sickened him. This world is nothing more than a ball of mud with insects rolling their own waste into homes. I've seen craters with more intelligence. Pausing he glared at the television and scoffed. Their communications are so primitive they may as well use tin cans and strings. No holo-screens, no instant transports. It's a wonder anything intelligent ever occurs on this world. Yet his continual disgust at Earth's existence would have to wait, as a low moan came from behind him. There was the entire Tenchi family, minus Ryoko or Prince Yosho, bound back to back with rope as they slept under the influence of his gas. Returning to his captives he knelt before the awaking youth. "Good-evening, prince Tenchi." He laughed to himself.
With a sharp sniff, the young man looked up horror in his eyes. "Kagato! But I killed-"
"You killed nothing more than a shadow, boy!" To emphasize his greatness the villain rose up to tower over Tenchi. "Now tell me, where is it?"
"Where's what?" the Jurain prince groaned still weak from the gas.
"Don't play coy with me," Kagato growled. "The sword! The master key! I must have it if I am to take control of Tsunami. Thanks to you I have lost the Soja, and with it all my wonderful tools. Now tell me, where is your sword!"
"Why should I tell you?" Tenchi responded feeling his anger burning
away the affects of the gas.
Breathing hard the old apprentice of Washu nodded. "You know you're right. Why should you? There really is no good explanation I could offer I suppose. But you should know that if you give me what I want then we will never meet again."
"Do. not. do it Lord Tenchi," Ayeka said slowly coming out of her gas- induced slumber. "He cannot be trusted."
"Lady Aye-ka," the villain mused. "Always a pleasure. But of course the two of you are really in no position to deny me anything. I hold all the cards. Your grandfather is dying at the shrine, and I have but to give the word and he'll be compost. Add to the fact that there is no one who could possibly come to your rescue, as I have personally made sure that Ryoko is taken care of.
"It was you!" Sasami gasped as she too awoke. "How could you be so mean? Why are you here?"
"Princess Sasami," he began, walking around the gathered extended family to reach her. "All I want is Tsunami; nothing more, nothing less. Simply give her to me and I will gladly leave."
"Never!" the blue-haired girl shouted. "You're evil!" Rearing back one hand Kagato scowled like a feral beast as he drew back to strike the wincing child. Just as he prepared to do so, he stopped a smile returning to his face.
"Fear not little one, I wont hurt you. Tsunami always arises to save you from harm." Walking to stand before them all he nodded in satisfaction. Presenting one gloved hand he summoned a small green fireball. "Which leaves me with an interesting idea. You see it has just occurred to me that since tsunami protects Sasami, then if she were in mortal danger Tsunami would have to appear." Moving the flame to one side he gently touched the wall, causing the area touched to ignite. "Perhaps say if you were to be burned alive?" Tossing the fireball aside Kagato nodded as he created another emerald flame and began to burn more of their home. "Of course if I am wrong, which I doubt I am, then I'll just have to settle for revenge on all of you. I know what you're thinking, but you'll die too Kagato. But I'm afraid not, you see I can leave her at any time. I still have the power to teleport. You however can't move thanks to the ropes. So you will die. Of course I could save you, but you'll have to tell me what I want to know, and give me what I want."
"Don't do it Sasami," Kiyone said trying to wiggle free from the ropes. "Its not worth it. You can't trust him." As she spoke another fireball struck the support beam above them. It became obvious to those would could see it that if they weren't burned alive they would be crushed by the collapsing building.
"But I don't wanna die," Noboyuki groaned, tears pouring from his eye in a vain attempt to quell the flames.
"On the bright side, we'll get to see Ryoko again," Mihoshi smiled, just as a loud crack came from above and the large wooden support beam came crashing down.
The Shrine: Having seized the shrine, the black warriors of Kagato left two men outside to watch for intruders. After a few minutes of nothing changing one man motioned to the other. "I don't see why he have to watch a stupid shrine in the mountains." He whined. "I mean what's so great about some old guy anyway."
"I have no idea," the first man replied. "But the boss said tonight he was getting even or something. I guess these guys are the family of some techno-tycoon or something. All I know is we get to blow up stuff and shoot cool high-tech stuff. So cool it, Heldata."
"Yeah, I guess so," the man called Heldata grumbled heading towards the stair edge, as his companion headed towards the shrine doors. As Heldata reached the ledge, a small sound came to his attention. "What was that? It sound-" At that instant something lunged from the shadows striking the black-clad man hard, instantly removing him from consciousness.
"Sorry, Hedalta, but that was a fist that hit you." The attacker said with a smile while cocking the laser cannon with her only available hand. "Not too shabby, but I've seen better." Looking up the attacker fired a quick shot at the shrine knocking the other guard out before he had a moment to turn or react.
"What was that?" a voice called from inside the shrine. "Sounds like trouble outside, go check it out." Scarcely a moment later two guards ran out. Twin shots filled the night and the intruders were instantly nullified.
"Too jerky for my taste. Although I like something with thrusting power, I think Kagato was compensating for something with these." Turning the rifle over in her hands, she smirked, as she looked it over, before heading into the ancient shrine leaving the downed, but not dead, guards writhing where they had fallen.
Instantly she realized it was a set up. Yosho knelt in pain at the center of the room, clutching his chest tightly. Sweat poured down the Jurain noble's face and she knew his pain was genuine, not an act as these men seemed to think. Without missing a beat she continued to glide across the room, and soon found herself completely surrounded by Kagato's minions whose disrupters were aimed and ready. "Drop the gun, cutie, and get on the ground. I don't know who you are, but no one- "
Not wasting a moment, the lithe woman's arm shot up and she fired in rapid succession. In the blink of an eye each of her assailants fell, immobilized as they suffered from her non -lethal shots. In the entire battle her attention never left her target, the man at the center of the room, despite the danger around her. Tossing the gun aside like a bored child would an old toy she knelt beside Yosho and smiled as she addressed the fallen men. "No, of course you don't know who I am. That's your biggest mistake."
"Ryoko," Lord Katsuhito gasped, seeing her clearly now. Once again she donned her red and black battle suit, and seemed to no longer suffer from any of her previous ailments. "But you were dy-"
"It wouldn't have been a warriors death, would it?" She smiled back, revealing her formerly unseen hand. While her right arm had been busy, in her left arm was the Tenchi-ken. Her left hand was wrapped tightly with bandages that possessed minor charred marks. Taking his hand in hers Ryoko slammed the hilt in his hand. "Take this damn thing back. Now I want you to know I love Tenchi and all, but he really needs to watch his things. I mean I'm not always going to be around to take care of him. " The failing Jurain merely gasped as he tried to chuckle. "We have to do something about that cough.." Rising to her feet, the silver haired woman extended her arms and closed both eyes. A glow soon covered her body like her red and black battle suite, but then the gem on her ear vanished, reappearing on the sword hilt. Instantly Lord Katsuhito looked relived. "So," she noted coolly. "We both need my gems."
"Yes," the old looking warrior added as he slowly got to his feet. "But you must hurry. There is still grave danger. Kagato has-"
Suddenly Ryoko held up a hand silencing him as she sniffed loudly. "Smoke. there's a fire at the house!" Turning she glared daggers at her former enemy. "I have to go." As she teleported away, Katsuhito noticed something he hadn't before.
Ryoko still bears injuries, on her heart and body. I fear the trial ahead may be too much for her. Even with two of her gems, she still needs time to rest and heal. She may save Tenchi and the others, but at what cost?
The House:
Flame climbed up the walls of the Masaki home, crackling with a terrible roar as it consumed everything in its path. Yet the popping sound of the fire was overshadowed by the resonating boom of the weaken support beam above starting to become free from the wall. As one the extended family winced in preparation for their demise. Weakened from the gas, and bound together, made escape impossible. The only one who could save them lay dying in a hospital bed in town. There was only one other person available to save them from their current plight, Kagato. However they knew that the devil that had captured them was not going to save them, at least not without a price. Yet it was a price none of them were willing to pay. Thus with a final crack the huge beam fell and the yellowed eyed man threw his head back and laughed darkly as Tenchi and his family shuddered at their final moments.
Instead of a loud crash only a gentle thump occurred followed by mild cursing. "Damn, this thing is heavy, and hot."
As one Kagato and the Masaki clan looked to the owner, and with voices mixed with horror and joy all shouted one name. "Ryoko!"
Holding the flaming beam on her shoulder, the silver haired woman grinned. "Sorry I'm late, I had to do something about my hair. You wouldn't believe how hard it was to shave off all that colored crap. Thankfully mine grows back pretty quick. I'm much cuter with cyan hair, don't you think?" To accent her point she playfully tossed her wild hair with her bandaged hand, before returning it to her side.
"I should have known you wouldn't die easy, Ryoko." Kagato hissed while casually summoning emerald power before him. "But I suppose I should be grateful for a chance to take you apart one more time."
"You tried to kill Tenchi," Ryoko said with a venomous voice, "again." Leaning back she rolled the flaming support post into her hand and chucked it towards her adversary as easily as others might throw a ball. Kagato started, trying his best to create a shield from the gathered power, but he was too late, and instead could barely muffle the impact of the flaming column as it slammed into him and took him through the house and obliterating the wall. For only a second the lithe woman allowed herself to think that the nightmare was over, but in her heart she knew it wasn't true. Fashioning an energy blade with her free hand, she sliced the bindings from her friends as the fire raged on around them. "Everyone get outside. I'll finish Kagato."
Rising to his feet, Tenchi rubbed his wrists as he tired to steady himself. "Ryoko, let me help you. You know Kagato's powerful, and you still look inj-"
With neck breaking speed, the golden-eyed woman glared at him. "Kagato-is- mine," she hissed and without another word the former space pirate soared out the hole in the wall after her former master.
Outside:
It only took a few moments before the Masaki family found another way out, and soon the heat of the house was behind them. "See, Tenchi, you always complained when you were younger and I told you to have an escape route in case of fire. Now aren't you glad we practiced, and -oof" Noboyuki groaned as he slammed into his sons back while carrying Washu's still unconscious form. "What's going on? Why are. oh." He moaned seeing the army of weapon carrying minions who surrounded their burning home. The odds were, at best, 4 to one.
"Lord Tenchi," Ayeka said in disgust. "Please allow me to rid you of these vermin. They have not only defiled the sanctity of our home, but also reduced my noble clothing to tattered rags." Casting the purple-haired princess a look, the young man had to smile. Ayeka's 'tattered rags' were still leaps and bounds beyond anything anyone one Earth possessed, even if the fringes were slightly burned.
As the swarms of minions poured in, Tenchi could only say one thing. "No, Ayeka. This isn't your fight. We'll have to do it." It took only a moment before Ayeka had transformed into her Jurain battle suit. Lacking her finesse at transforming, the Jurain prince allowed his emotions to do his work and soon was basked in the radiant glory of the Lighthawk wings. "We'll hold them off, the rest of you find someplace safe, and see if you can't help wake Washu." Without a second more to waste the duo was off, Ayeka's energy shield deflecting blasts while Tenchi threw up his own Lighthawk defenses. In a few seconds they had managed to trample halfway through the black clad minions.
"I hate this," Kiyone growled as they ran with Washu's limp body further out on the docks towards the Onsen's path. "What are we going to do? I don't know anything about treating unconscious victims."
"Hey, this thing is pretty," Mihoshi chimed in playing with the huge amulet around Washu's neck. "Do you think Washu might let me burrow it sometime? I wonder where she got it? It reminds me of something, but I don't remember what. You know it sure looks nice. Speaking of nice wasn't it nice to see Ryoko again? She sure looked better to me, and-"
"Mihoshi will you leave that thing alone!" the black-haired woman snapped at her slower partner. "I don't know where Washu got it, it's the first time I've ever seen it before."
Studying the sleeping genius, Sasami seemed perplexed. "Where did you
see it before Mihoshi?"
"Hmm.. Let me think.." The blonde detective began, placing a tanned finger to her lips. "When was that.?"
Great at the rate she remembers we'll be here all night. Kiyone groaned with sorrow.
"Maybe if I seen it closer," she decided, removing the amulet from around Washu's neck. Instantly the little genius sat up a shocked look on her face.
"Get rid of that thing!" Washu demanded, typing on her keyboard frantically as she did. Beside the ditzy blond a subspace portal opened.
"Do you mean now?"
"YES!" the greatest genius in the universe decreed. "Do it now!" With a shrug Mihoshi set the amulet in the hole and watched as it vanished in an instant. It only took that moment for Washu to assess the situation. Above all else she felt the fury of her daughter coming from nearby. It warmed her heart to know Ryoko was alive, yet at the same time she felt a terrible weariness coming from behind that rage. Before her Tenchi and Ayeka darted around like fireflies in the night, occasionally swooping into a sea of darkness only to rise above it once again. Beyond all this the Masaki home burned like a giant candle. "So why aren't you two in there fighting? "
"Our guns are still inside," Kiyone said angrily. "I usually don't SLEEP with my weapon on me."
"Is that all," the emerald-eyed woman laughed typing once again on her keyboard. Soon a portal opened and out popped two GP issue blasters. "Here you go," she giggled. "Have fun."
Cocking the new weapon, the first class detective felt ill at ease to see how easy the universe's number one genius broke in and stole their technology. This is definitely something I'll have to talk to her about later.. Kiyone told herself, before rushing into the fray, doing her best to disarm the highly armed humans. Mihoshi followed a few steps behind, complaining about how scared she was and politely asking everyone to surrender.
"So what do we do?" Noboyuki swallowed, fearful he might be sent into battle.
"Do?" Washu said a dark shadow overcoming her face. Only a twinkle of light from one eye escaped the darkness. "There's only one thing to do." as the middle-aged man winced Washu whirled about and soon sat with Sasami and Ryo-Ohki upon a checkered blanket with various foods. "We sit back and enjoy the show!" Sasami and her cabbit friend shouted their enjoyment as they dug into the goodies all around them, as Noboyuki collapsed in shock. "Good thing I keep a sampling of your cooking for just such an occasion, pass the cake would you Sasami dear."
Near the house:
Ryoko and Kagato stood locked in combat. The lithe woman wielded her blade in one hand, grinding it upon the emerald sword of Kagato's. Each warrior gritted their teeth in an attempt to gain dominance in their epic struggle. "You know what Ryoko," the evil genius cooed, as he began to push her back. "I'm not going to kill you. I've decided against that. No, you're going to be my slave again. Once I beat you into submission, things can go back to normal."
Back to. Ryoko panicked feeling her strength fade as she imagined the horror of once again being Kagato's slave. This only gave her former captor more ground. Images of her past flickered in her mind like miniature flames, igniting countless more memories she would have just soon forget. "No," she hissed thrusting out her other hand and firing a crimson blast. The energy tore her bandages from her semi-charred hand, showing the injuries were not as dire as she had made it seem. "I'll never go back to you! Never!" Crimson power gathered in her hand, but before she could fire Kagato beamed away. Snapping her head up, Ryoko followed his motions and teleported after him. Time and again the duo transported themselves the evil tormentor always staying a fraction of a step ahead of his former slave and thus barely avoiding her crimson blasts. After several teleports he stopped high in the sky.
"Boo." She said from behind him. Spinning the white-haired man knew he was doomed. "You really don't think much of me, do you Kagato?" Ryoko sneered with joy as she fired at the white skinned man, who instantly vaporized. "To think I couldn't tell a shadow from the real thing. I just want to watch you die as many times as I can." From her vantage point high above, the silver-haired woman surveyed the forested area beneath her. For centuries she had known him, by sight, by feel, by sound, and most of all by smell. His reek was one she would never forget. Drifting forward with the grace of a ballet dancer, the former slave grinned as she soared downward in a power dive.
The path:
The quiet passage leading from Tenchi's home to the shrine was no longer quiet. Like a madman Kagato raced up the cement steps. "How could this happen," he growled. "How could Ryoko have survived? She was dead! I saw her fall! How-" Before he could ask himself another question, the pavement before him exploded, causing him to stagger backward. As the dust settled, Kagato moved his hand from protecting his face watching a form take shape in the falling debris.
"Where are you going, master?" Ryoko asked as she slowly glided out of the crater her arms held palm out at her side. "I came looking for you. I thought you'd want to take me with you. I mean I'm not as weak as before," at this moment she emerged from the column of dust with twin points of red light glowing on her wrists. "See, I got my gems back. So I'm a lot stronger."
Kagato's stomach dropped. It all made sense now, how Ryoko could survive and how she had regained so much strength. With her gems back there was no way he could best her with his meager energy weapons. He could only watch in terror as she glided towards him a smile as vicious as those he used to cast her when she was at his mercy. When she was only a few feet away he finally noticed something. A small trail of blood, now semidry, ran from one of the wounds on her arms. She's not completely synchronized with her gems, he mused. Which means.. Reaching into his robes the emerald-wearing villain readied himself.
At last Ryoko leveled herself to look him square in eyes, reaching out she grasped her tormentor by the throat, slowly squeezing. This is it. Finally I'll be free. It was then she heard the click. Looking to the source the golden-eyed pirate had to cross her eyes as she looked down the barrel of Kagato's primitive Earth ballistic weapon. It was a crude weapon firing an explosive metal shell as opposed to a laser blast.
"I have a theory," he gasped. "If I fire now, you won't be able to regenerate. Not from a headshot. Even you need your brain, Ryoko. Despite the fact you rarely use it. I know what you're thinking, you could snap by neck, but would that be before or after I pull the trigger? Well Ryoko? Do you think you can live without a head? Go ahead, either let me go, or die."
No. she gasped. NO! I came so far! I was so close! I don't want to die, but. but I've never been hit in the head before, not hard enough to kill me at least. I. I. feeling her adrenaline rush fade; Ryoko released him from her hand. "I should have known you'd cheat." Falling to her knees, the beaten woman bowed her head, feeling very weak all of a sudden.
"No," Kagato mused placing the barely right against her forehead. "You should have known I'd win."
Breathing out one last time, Ryoko smiled as she looked up at her tormentor. "Good-bye, Kagato." Mimicking her grin he nodded.
"Goodbye, Ryoko."
The House:
Just as the last adversary fell before the combined might of Tenchi, Ayeka, Kiyone, and even Mihoshi, a shot rang out in the night sending chills down everyone's spine. It was not the sound of a high tech laser, but a ballistic weapon resounding in the night. At first no one knew what to make of it, but as soon as Washu rose to her feet, everyone panicked. Then nothing else rang out, only silence. No one moved for fear they might shatter the silence and start the shots up again. Silence hung over the area like a shroud. For nearly a full minute no one moved.
Then the sound of sliding footsteps came from the darkness. It started off faint, but grew louder as time went on. Soon the vague outline of someone could be seen. A full minute later thanks to the fire engulfing their home Ryoko could be seen. A red trail of blood ran from her head, and she winced as she walked, even cradling her previously bandaged hand as if it were broken. Everyone gasped to see her, and she sheepishly looked away. "Go ahead and say it, Ayeka." She swallowed feeling the insult coming. "I know a shot to my head might not matter, there's nothing there right?"
To the surprise of everyone around, Ayeka rushed to her rival, transforming to her regular robes. As soon as she reached Ryoko the purple haired woman threw her arms emphatically around her neck. Although she tried to scream tears muffled the red-eyed princess's words as she squeezed the injured space pirates neck tightly. "You stupid woman! How dare you scare me like that! Do you have any idea what I've been going through because of your reckless, uncouth behavior? Were we on planet Jurai I'd have you put in chains for this!"
Releasing Ryoko, she sniffed loudly in spite of herself while the others moved in. "Regardless, welcome home, Ryoko."
"Thanks, Ayeka," the silvery-haired vixen replied fighting back her own tears with nearly no success.
"Ryoko! Ryoko!" Sasami shouted half-skipping and half-running to her old friends position. "What was that shot? What happened to your head? How could you get better so fast?"
"It was your visit kid," she answered patting the little princess on the head tenderly with her good arm. "That's how I got better."
So he shot you in the head, Washu declared. Smart move phasing out at the last moment, but it looks like you could have been a little quicker. Still, I suppose some of my genius did rub off on you, Little Ryoko.
Like hell it did, MOM! Ryoko sneered as she fought off Mihoshi's crippling hugs to her tender spots and tried to show affection to Ryo-Ohki and Sasami who clung to her like a wet towel. Maybe you'd like to test your reflexes someday? I wouldn't mind holding the gun for you. Oh, and since you asked, yes I did kill Kagato. It wasn't too hard really. Like most guys he fired his ammo and then was too stunned to stop my shot.
Such a foul mouth and vulgar metaphors, the red-haired mother declared. I guess some things never change.
Making no reply, Ryoko merely flashed a smile as she said hello to Kiyone and glared a warning at Noboyuki so he would not try to cop a feel of her while showing his excitement at seeing her.
"Welcome back, Ryoko" Tenchi said from the outside of the crowd. As he spoke the world seemed to fade around the space pirate and prince. The only thing she seen was the light from the fire.
Ryoko felt a deep need to be held welling up inside her, and her knees no longer seemed fit to hold her weight, but just as she leaned forward to allow him to catch her, sirens filled the air and police cars, ambulances, and fire trucks arrived on the scene.
With a sigh, the lithe woman shook her head. Sometimes the more things change; the more they stay the same..
Next Time: Well Kagato's defeated and Ryoko's home. Seems everyone is happy now, right? If you believe that, then you haven't been reading from the beginning. Be here for the epic conclusion.