Legal Disclaimer:
All "Tenchi Muyo" references are copyrighted by Pioneer and AIC. This is an amateur non-commercial story, which is not produced, approved of, or sponsored by the holders of the trademarks/copyrights from which this work is derived. The views expressed herein are solely those of the author.
On Wings of Change: Part One
Chapter Two: Wings of Temperament
Everyone gathered in the atrium as the Ryu-oh hung in low orbit around Umano. Everyone was dressed up to meet with the rest of the royal family. The two princesses were wearing elaborate customary long robed Jurian kimonos. Aeka's was deep crimson in color, similar to her eyes, with a soft pink sakura petal design trailing up one side. Sasami's kimono was pink in color with a design of green bamboo. Washu was in her formal green Space Academy regalia, Mihoshi and Kiyone in their formal navy Galaxy Police suits. Ryouko wore her long dress of white with black trim with aqua, and black leggings. Ryo-ohki clung to Sasami's side in toddler form wearing a pretty pink and white dress. Tenchi felt rather out of place wearing a pair of dark jeans, a collared shirt and a sport jacket.
Sasami and Mihoshi were busy chatting away about the fun they were going to have once they got to the resort. Tenchi was still rubbing the sleep out of his eyes as his mind tried to reason with his body that he had been asleep for two and a half days.
Washu stretched her tiny body. "That was the best beauty sleep I've gotten in a long time!"
"You need a lot more of that sleep if you think you're beautiful." Ryouko commented.
"Would you like me to turn you into a kappa, little Ryouko?" Hinted Washu, a gleam in her eye as she stretched her index finger towards her daughter.
A beep sounded as a communication screen appeared in front of the group, halting Washu and Ryouko's argument. A young woman with long black hair tied back into a French braid greeted the princesses. Her white and gold jacket with two red circles above her heart indicated that she was an ensign.
"Welcome to planet Umano, Princesses. Your family is awaiting you here on our planet. I am sending your ship docking coordinates. We can receive your party immediately. Please enjoy your stay on our planet." She bowed low as the communication transmission ended.
The Ryu-oh began to automatically descend and Aeka began barking orders to Azaka and Kamidake to prepare for landing.
"Umm, Miss Aeka?" Tenchi asked, tentatively.
"Yes Lord Tenchi?" She replied.
"I was wondering… do the people of this planet know of my background?" Tenchi asked.
Aeka could see the worry in his eyes. 'Does being connected to the royal family cause him that much despair? Would being emperor by my side be so terrible?' She asked herself. "No, Lord Tenchi. No one of Jurai knows of your blood lineage. You are traveling simply as the guest of the royal family."
Tenchi nodded, a sigh of relief escaping his chest as he turned to stand near Kiyone by a view port as the ship descended. As they broke through the atmosphere, vivid waves of reds, oranges and greens appeared due to the intense heat.
Noting Tenchi's intense concentration, Kiyone asked him, "Something the matter?"
"Oh…I just don't know how you ever get used to such amazing sights, being in space and seeing different planets all the time." He answered, continuing his vigil on the descent.
Shrugging her shoulders, Kiyone merely said, "I've never thought about it. For us, it's just a part of every day life."
* * *
The reception that awaited the group as they off-boarded the Ryu-oh shocked Tenchi. There were at least 40 people lining the reception area. Waiting to greet the Princesses and her company were other royals, guards, and waiters that carried drinks and snacks
A man stepped forward to greet Ayeka and Sasami. He appeared to be in his late twenties, and was slim and tall, standing a few inches over six feet. His long hair was a jet-black that shone faintly and his hazel eyes were an alluring mix of green and gold. Dressed in a Jurian Royal Colony robe, he bowed to the party respectfully.
"Welcome to Umano, Princesses of Jurai and honored guests. We have been awaiting your arrival, and are very pleased to host your family on our planet. My name is Aoyama Masamitsu, and I am the prince of this planet." He said in a deep, charming voice.
"We do have one request of a member of your party." Masamitsu continued, turning to look at Ryouko. "This woman is the one previously known as the Space Pirate Ryouko, is that correct?"
Ryouko eyed the man suspiciously. "The one and only." She said in an even tone. She disliked the way the man's voice dripped with politeness. He sounded fake and overly confident to her.
"We understand the details of your past, and regret what has happened to you. However, we would like to ask that, in order to calm the fears of any…less educated citizens of my planet, that you please wear this bracelet." He said, pulling a box out of his pocket, which held a slim, silver bracelet displayed on a strip of black velvet. The prince continued. "This bracelet acts as a force field and will neutralize any of your powers, including attacks that could be attempted. Not that you would of course." He added.
"And if I choose not to?" She asked, noticing all of her friends watching her.
"Then I regret to say that we can not permit you to stay on our planet." He answered, keeping eye contact.
:: Ryouko, just take it. If the force field even works, I'll find a way around it.:: Washu informed her over their link.
Ryouko waged a mental war with herself. 'I don't believe this, it's so embarrassing. Do I leave and keep my pride or take the bracelet and stay with Tenchi?' She glanced over to Tenchi. Somehow, she felt his soft eyes ask her to take the bracelet. She quickly dismissed the tempting thought.
Ryouko reached her left arm out towards the man.
Aeka spoke up, annoyance ringing clearly in her voice. "Surely it does not have to come to this. No visitor that would accompany the royal family should be subjected to something such as this."
"It's okay, Princess." Replied Ryouko, cutting her off. "I don't want the people of this planet being afraid of me, and if this bracelet will assure that, then I'll wear the stupid thing."
Masamitsu smiled, obviously relieved. "Thank you for your understanding, Miss Ryouko." He said, as he moved to secure the bracelet on her wrist. He looked shocked when Ryouko grabbed the bracelet out of his hand.
"I can put it on myself." Spat Ryouko as she slipped the cold metal around her wrist. The bracelet adjusted itself to fit tightly against her arm, and she looked down at in distaste.
Aoyama Masamitsu bowed deeply and thanked the princesses again before taking his leave. Ryouko eyed him warily as she watched him disappear into the crowd.
* * *
The costal village they had arrived at began to give way to gently rolling grassy hills. In the distance, tall mountains broke the horizon like tall sentinels as the princesses and their guests traveled in a transport vehicle on their way to the resort.
Washu busily held one of her devices over her daughter's wrist as she analyzed the bracelet. A wire connected the device to her hovering holotop as it downloaded everything that she could learn about its materials and how to counteract its effects.
"I'm really sorry that had to happen, Ryouko." Sasami apologized. Ryo-ohki mournfully meowed at Ryouko, feeling her mistress' frustration.
Ryouko patted Sasami's head. "It's no biggie, Sasami. I think I kind of understand."
"Even still Ryouko, I am embarrassed that he would ask such a thing from a person traveling with the royal family." Said Aeka, matter-of-factly. "Not that it matters to me, of course." She added.
"I don't think anyone will try to attack you anyway, Ryouko." Said Tenchi, reassuringly.
Kiyone nodded. "Besides, you have the rest of us here in case anything out of the ordinary would happen."
"Guys, leave it alone already. I can fight without my powers anyway." Ryouko shrugged. "I can play by the rules for once, so drop it."
Tenchi tried to change the subject for Ryouko's sake. "This planet is really similar to Earth, isn't it?"
"Yes, Lord Tenchi." Answered Aeka, taking the bait. "Umano hosts many imported Earth grasses and trees, as it is more similar to the horses' natural habitat. In fact, our resort has a stunning Earth style garden."
"Really? That sounds interesting, Miss Aeka." Tenchi said.
"Well then, perhaps we will have to take a tour, Lord Tenchi." Aeka said, blushing slightly. Ryouko rolled her eyes at the princess's obvious tactic.
The vehicle turned a corner and they entered the manicured grounds of the resort. Landscaped shrubs, flowering trees, and brightly colored flowers grew along the road as a large, sprawling complex of buildings came into view. The buildings seemed to flow into each other spanning the length of a mile or so. The entire resort seemed to be a town in and of itself. Not only was there the main hotel, but there were also other shopping, dining and recreation areas that lay around it. As like all Jurian architecture, the buildings were crafted out of out of live trees, wood, and other organic and inorganic materials, giving the structures a streamlined, continuous appearance. The main hotel building was four stories tall with windows stretching from top to bottom. A large portico provided shelter to the main doors, and an expansive fountain made of rocks and marble with exotic plants adorned the drop off area.
As the vehicle came to a stop, attendants escorted the passengers out. Upon walking through the front doors, Aeka and Sasami were instantly run over by an overly exuberant Misaki, who threw her arms around her daughters. "Aeka! Sasami!" She wailed.
"Mommy!" Cried the two voices crushed by her hold. One of the two voices sounded something other than pleased by being hugged by her mother in public.
Misaki promptly dropped her girls and advanced toward Ryouko. "Ryouko!" She called out, arms outstretched. Ryouko sidestepped right before Misaki could grab her and pushed Washu into her place.
"I'll get you for this, Ryouko!" Washu yelled as Misaki picked the little redhead up into a bear hug. A deep clearing of one's throat was heard, and Misaki promptly dropped Washu on the floor as Azusa and Funaho approached.
"It is very nice that you could join us on vacation, all of you are welcome, so please make yourselves at home." Began Funaho.
Upon seeing her father, Sasami ran up to him and jumped, flinging her arms around his neck. "Daddy!" She exclaimed. Ryo-ohki hid behind Ryouko, still weary of the big man after he didn't like the song and dance she had performed for him during his last visit to Earth.
After greeting his daughters, Emperor Azusa, in his normal fashion, spoke shortly and gruffly to the group. "As the guests of my daughters, you are welcome to our colony planet Umano. The staff here is at your disposal. We shall contact you later." He then turned to leave, Funaho and Misaki following suit.
"See you girls in a little while!" Exclaimed Misaki as they turned the corner.
Attendants crowded around the rest of the party. "Princess Aeka and Sasami, please allow us to escort you to your rooms, they are here on the first floor. The guest quarters on the third floor have been prepared for your guests."
"I would prefer to remain near my guests." Insisted Aeka.
"We are sorry, Princess, but the Emperor has made it clear that he wished to have his daughters near to him." Replied an attendant.
Aeka realized she could argue no more. Ryouko let out a chuckle. "Don't you get any ideas, you uncivilized heathen." Demanded Aeka. "I assure you, you will be as far away from Lord Tenchi's room as possible!"
"I'm so scared, Miss Princess Prissy Pants. Have fun with mommy and daddy!" Chided Ryouko, sticking her tongue out at Aeka.
The attendants ducked as Aeka summoned her logs, Ryouko balled up her fist to call forth her energy sword. When nothing happened, Ryouko's heart sank as she looked down at hands, remembering that the bracelet prevented her from using her powers.
"And one more thing," Boomed Azusa's voice as he was about to come from around the corner again. Aeka quickly made her logs disappear just in time. "…Why are the attendants ducking?" He faltered.
Tenchi reached into his pocket and threw a pen down on the ground. "I dropped my pen, Emperor Azusa." Supplied Tenchi in a moment of quick thinking as he got down on his hands and knees.
"I see…" Said Azusa, looking down at the boy on the floor with narrow eyes. He still didn't like the boy, even after the incident with Seiryu. "Aeka, Sasami, I expect you to join us for the rest of the night."
"Yes father." Replied Aeka, still on eggshells.
Azusa left for the second time as Tenchi picked up his pen and shouted, "Found it!"
The attendants slowly rose from the ground and nervously took the group in their two separate directions.
* * *
Upon arriving on the third floor by riding a large elevator, Tenchi, Ryouko, Washu, Ryo-ohki, Mihoshi and Kiyone were greeted to a view through the backside of the hotel.
"Wooooow!" Exclaimed Mihoshi as the group got a full view out of the four story windows of a vast complex of pools and sporting areas. Little shops and larger buildings dotted the landscape, neatly tucked into the flowing landscape.
The attendants escorted them down the hall to their rooms. At the end of the hall was a circular area with five doors. "Please feel free to visit the pools and tour the grounds at your leisure. If you should desire anything, please contact any one of us." Said one attendant as each guest was escorted to their own room.
* * *
Ryouko settled into her room, and having no luggage to unpack, quickly became bored. The room was nice enough, with a king size bed, a dresser with a mirror and a couch. There was a plasma screen tv set into the wall and a bar with a little refrigerator. The bathroom was extravagant with a marble floor, a large Jacuzzi tub, a separate shower with two heads, and two sinks.
She smirked to herself, realizing the absurdity of the large, plush room. 'Now if only I had another person in here with me to make use of the huge bed and the double headed shower...' Tenchi was on her mind. 'What would it be like to wake up with him here in this room, in this bed? Heaven.'
She looked down at the metal bracelet on her wrist and sighed, her mood turning sour. Truth be told, she had surprised herself by agreeing to the prince's request. Blame it on Zero, blame it on her loving Tenchi, blame it on anything, but she was determined to clear her name with the Jurians. She had wanted to stay with her friends, and on top of that, it seemed that Tenchi had wanted her to stay. Besides, it wouldn't be the first time she had ever gone without her powers.
Begin Flashback
The Shou'ou had rendered Ryouko powerless for a short time when it had attacked in Washu's lab while she was running tests on Ryouko. Although Washu captured the Shou'ou, Ryouko's powers were lost due to a problem with the machine that had gotten involved in the attack.
Ryouko was furious at not having her powers at first. She couldn't fly, phase, or attack. So she spent her time helping Sasami with her chores. When Sasami told Ryouko she looked just like a housewife, she threw herself into chores even harder. Ryouko had even learned how to cook. She had once brought Tenchi onigiri she had made herself after a sword practice with Katsuhito, and Tenchi enjoyed it, admitting that her actions reminded him of her mother. When Washu had finally restored her powers, Ryouko almost didn't want them back.
End Flashback
'I'm sure Tenchi wanting me to stay is just wishful thinking.' She reasoned with herself, sighing and crossing her arms across her chest. Feeling her fingers brush up against the piece of construction paper in her dress, she reached into the pocket and pulled it out.
She held the paper by its neatly folded edges and began to open it. 'I remember bits and pieces of my past.' She thought. 'I wish I could remember this. I wish I could remember everything as it was.'
Staring at the picture again and getting nowhere, she began to get angry. 'I don't need these memories, they aren't important!' She crumpled the picture up for a second time and tossed it across the room into the trashcan.
Ryouko got up and paced the room twice before going back to the trashcan. After staring at it for a few minutes, she picked the piece of paper out and unfolded the wrinkles again before neatly folding it and placing it back in her dress.
* * *
In the adjacent room, Washu could sense Ryouko's frustration. She pulled up her holotop keyboard, pressed a few buttons, and teleported her clothes from her suitcases to her dresser. 'I wish I could help her out, but the more I try to get involved in her life, the more she pushes me away.' She lamented, petting Ryo-ohki, now back in cabbit form on the head.
She then concentrated on the results of the research from the bracelet that was nulling Ryouko's powers. A bewildered expression crossed Washu's face. 'Hmm, that's odd.' She thought to herself.' My computer still hasn't located a match for the bracelet's materials or the source of it's power yet.'
Shrugging, and getting up to stretch, Washu tried to relax. 'Maybe it just needs more time, that's all.'
Thinking about her daughter again, still sensing her raw frustration, Washu wished she could reach to her from the link they shared. Knowing that Ryouko was incapable of receiving the thought due to the bracelet, she quietly said to herself, "I'm here for you, little Ryouko."
* * *
Kiyone pulled each pressed and perfectly folded shirt out of her GP issue suitcase and hung it on a hanger. She lined up her toiletries on the ledge in the bathroom according to which one she used first to the one she used last. It seemed that everything in her life revolved around order and repetition.
Once she had finished unpacking, she plopped down on the bed and thought, 'I really need this vacation. I need to loosen up a little.'
* * *
Tenchi sat cross-legged on the bed after he had unpacked his luggage. He shut his eyes and slowed his breathing. Tenchi was an easily adaptable kind of man, but all the space travel and being on a different planet was difficult for a guy who was raised in the town of Okayama all of his life. He attempted to clear his mind and meditate for a while.
Ryouko. She was the first thing he thought about. When he closed his eyes he saw her face. He was concerned for her, she seemed to have a lot on her mind for the past couple of weeks, and he was glad that she had decided to accept the prince's wishes so that she could stay with them. It almost seemed like the legendary demon was maturing right in front of his eyes.
'Why am I thinking about Ryouko?' He scolded himself as he tried a second time to clear his mind, and yet his train of thought stopped at Ryouko once more.
* * *
Mihoshi sat in the middle of the floor, crumpled clothing strewn all around her, an exploded bottle of shampoo was lying in the bottom of her bag.
"Why does this always happen to me?" She whined to herself. Before she could get back to putting her clothes away, something shiny on the bedside table caught her attention. Upon further investigation, she realized it was a communication device.
Attempting to remember her partner's room number, she punched a few random numbers and buttons and spoke into the unit. "Kiyone? Are you there?" Over her own voice, she didn't hear the screams come from all of the other rooms along with a loud thump. "They have comm units in the rooms so we can talk to each other!" She continued.
* * *
Tenchi rubbed his head tenderly, he had hit it on the floor after falling off the bed. Mihoshi's voice had somehow been amplified twenty times over and pumped into at least his room. He had been so lost in thought that the sudden noise had startled him.
* * *
Washu tried to slow her heart rate as she realized that Mihoshi had figured out how to work the inter-room communicator. She went to her own and pressed a combination of buttons and spoke.
"Don't you touch that communicator again you bubble-head! You managed to broadcast yourself at maximum volume into all of our rooms!"
Mihoshi's whimpering voice could be heard over the line.
"I've managed to link all our rooms together at the correct volume now. Why don't we all go out and do something?" Suggested Washu.
Mihoshi stopped her wailing and immediately forgot about her blunder. "Yea! Let's go swimming!"
* * *
Back in her room, Ryouko prepared to phase into her swimsuit. She squeezed the muscle in her mind and imagined the swimsuit. When nothing happened she tried again. It was then that she realized that was one of her powers that were being restricted.
"Damn it." She muttered, rethinking her decision to go without her powers as she walked out of the room. She knocked on Mihoshi's door. 'She has the most similar body to mine, I'm sure she has an extra suit.'
The blonde opened the door. "What can I do for you Ryouko?"
"Um, I can't phase into my bathing suit, so I was wondering…" Ryouko began.
"If you'd want to use one of mine?" Mihoshi supplied for her.
Ryouko nodded, thankful that she didn't have to finish her request. Space Pirates don't do requests. It's a policy. Mihoshi led her in and opened a drawer of her dresser. Ryouko was shocked at the number of bikinis Mihoshi had.
"I just love bikinis!" Exclaimed Mihoshi, rummaging through the drawer. "Here we go, this one would be perfect for you Ryouko! Oh, and don't forget all the accessories too!" She said as she gathered everything Ryouko would need.
* * *
Tenchi was the first one out, wearing a knee length pair of baggy black swim trunks and a loose white t-shirt with black flip flops. He had a pair of sunglasses propped up on his head and a towel around his neck.
Kiyone came out next. She was wearing a simple teal green one-piece swimsuit with a pair of jean shorts. She carried a large sun hat in one hand and sunscreen and a novel in the other. She and Tenchi began a light conversation as they waited for the others.
Washu and Mihoshi both opened their doors at the same time. Mihoshi had on a bright pink string bikini that left little to the imagination. She had matching sandals and a pair of sunglasses tucked in the string between her breasts. In her right hand she held a bag bursting with different kinds of tanning lotions and sprays. Washu was wearing a magenta two-piece that matched her hair with a pair of Teva's on her feet and Ryo-ohki sat her head. She carried an inner tube in one hand and noodles and a raft in the other.
Ryouko was the last to come out. Tenchi's jaw dropped upon seeing her. She was wearing a bright blue bikini. A sheer sarong of the same color reached mid thigh and was open on one side. A pair of high-heeled sandals graced her feet, making her legs looks even longer than they already were. Rose-colored sunglasses sat in her hair, pushing her bangs away from her face.
"See something you like, Tenchi?" She cooed.
Ryouko chucked when Tenchi's face flushed as he tore his gaze away from her.
"Let's go swimming!" Shouted Washu, and the group made their way to the pool.
The pool was unlike anything Tenchi had ever seen. It had a sprawling shape and looked more like a natural lagoon than a swimming pool. It was landscaped to include palm trees and waterfalls and there were different sections of the pool that were unattached. One part looked like a lagoon, another part hosted waterslides and a lazy river while yet another section was designed to look like a Japanese onsen, complete with steaming hot water.
They threw their towels on the poolside lounge chairs at the lagoon section of the pool. Washu threw her inflatable toys into the pool, and an annoyed Kiyone rubbed sun tan oil on Mihoshi's back. Tenchi made an effort to look away from the two girls, as he could feel a nosebleed coming on.
Ryouko snuck up next to Tenchi. "Getting a good show?" She asked in a lecherous voice. When Tenchi started stuttering and blushing, Ryouko laughed and gently pushed her body against his. His arms pinwheeled as he fell into the pool with a splash.
Tenchi splashed in the water as he surfaced, only to hear a loud, "Cannonball!" As he saw Ryouko's body flying toward him, her arms outstretched and back curved. He opened his arms just in time to catch the reckless woman and they tumbled backwards into the water together, their bodies sliding against one another.
Resurfacing for the second time, Tenchi got the jump on Ryouko, and when she surfaced, he spun his arms around to create a wall of water that assaulted Ryouko. Once she could see again, she retaliated by grabbing one of Washu's noodles and knocking him in the head with it. The two laughed and carried on, the others watching, oblivious to Washu rummaging around a sub space pocket.
"Atomic-Super-Water-Drencher-Version-Two-Point-One, prepare to die!" Shouted Washu from the pool's edge, aiming a large barreled gun at Tenchi and Ryouko. She pulled the trigger and a huge pack on her back whirred as a spray of high-pressure water knocked the two of them to the bottom of the pool again.
"Beat that!" Said Washu, smugly.
Just then, Mihoshi stood up to reapply sun tan lotion to her legs, and as she turned around, could have sworn she felt something cold and metal brush against her back. "What was that?" She asked, innocently.
Washu began to answer her, "I'll get you for this Miho-!" The water stealing her words as she fell into the pool with a splash.
* * *
Ryouko wandered the grounds with Ryo-ohki on her shoulder while the others were still at the pool. It was getting to be mid afternoon and her stomach was grumbling as she left the pool area to find a snack bar. Washu had demanded snacks and her stomach agreed. She was a little nervous about venturing out in public alone, she wondered if anyone would have a negative reaction to her. Not that she would admit to being nervous, or what other people thought about her, of course.
Passing royals either paid no heed to Ryouko or eyed her warily and gave her plenty of room to pass. After wandering around for quite some time, Ryouko spotted a little bar tucked behind a display palm of trees and entered.
Her cat-like night vision instantly adjusted to the dim atmosphere until her eyes could naturally adjust to the lighting. Walking to the counter, she sat down on a stool and asked the attendant, "I'd like um, five snack boxes and hmmm, one of those bottles of sake over there." She pointed, smiling cheerfully.
The clerk nodded and went back to the kitchen to prepare her order as four burly men approached Ryouko.
"You're the Space Pirate Ryouko, are you not?" Asked a man with a brisk voice. The men all wore the robes of the Jurian upper class's lower level. Ryouko merely nodded, not looking for a fight, knowing that these men were not happy to see her.
An older man in the back began shaking before he shouted out at her, "I knew it was you! I'd never forget the face of my brother's murderer!"
Ryouko got off the stool and backed up as the man pushed his friends aside and reached into his robe, pulling out a short dagger-like sword. Ryo-ohki jumped off Ryouko's shoulder and bolted out of the bar.
Ryouko wanted to call for her mother over their link, but knew she couldn't use her powers. 'I'm all alone.' She realized. 'And even though these guys are out to hurt me, I can't fight back, it'll cause an uproar, self defense or not, and I have to prove to these people that I'm no longer a threat!' Her pride wouldn't let her run, and she knew she couldn't fight. So she held her ground as the man charged her.
* * *
Ryo-ohki ran as fast as she could back to the pool and jumped onto Washu's stomach, meowing loudly.
"Tenchi!" Washu called out. "Something is wrong with Ryouko!" She said, urgently, jumping off her raft and out of the pool.
"What do you mean!" He asked, scrambling out of the pool after her.
"I don't know exactly what's going on, but we've got to find her now. I know she doesn't want to get into a fight, and even though she doesn't have her powers, she still knows she can injure or kill without them. She's defenseless, Tenchi!" Washu said in a panic.
"I'll find her, Little Washu." Tenchi exclaimed as he sprinted past Washu, following Ryo-ohki. He thought to himself, 'I've got to get to her before she gets hurt! Ryouko, hold on!'
* * *
End chapter Two
All "Tenchi Muyo" references are copyrighted by Pioneer and AIC. This is an amateur non-commercial story, which is not produced, approved of, or sponsored by the holders of the trademarks/copyrights from which this work is derived. The views expressed herein are solely those of the author.
On Wings of Change: Part One
Chapter Two: Wings of Temperament
Everyone gathered in the atrium as the Ryu-oh hung in low orbit around Umano. Everyone was dressed up to meet with the rest of the royal family. The two princesses were wearing elaborate customary long robed Jurian kimonos. Aeka's was deep crimson in color, similar to her eyes, with a soft pink sakura petal design trailing up one side. Sasami's kimono was pink in color with a design of green bamboo. Washu was in her formal green Space Academy regalia, Mihoshi and Kiyone in their formal navy Galaxy Police suits. Ryouko wore her long dress of white with black trim with aqua, and black leggings. Ryo-ohki clung to Sasami's side in toddler form wearing a pretty pink and white dress. Tenchi felt rather out of place wearing a pair of dark jeans, a collared shirt and a sport jacket.
Sasami and Mihoshi were busy chatting away about the fun they were going to have once they got to the resort. Tenchi was still rubbing the sleep out of his eyes as his mind tried to reason with his body that he had been asleep for two and a half days.
Washu stretched her tiny body. "That was the best beauty sleep I've gotten in a long time!"
"You need a lot more of that sleep if you think you're beautiful." Ryouko commented.
"Would you like me to turn you into a kappa, little Ryouko?" Hinted Washu, a gleam in her eye as she stretched her index finger towards her daughter.
A beep sounded as a communication screen appeared in front of the group, halting Washu and Ryouko's argument. A young woman with long black hair tied back into a French braid greeted the princesses. Her white and gold jacket with two red circles above her heart indicated that she was an ensign.
"Welcome to planet Umano, Princesses. Your family is awaiting you here on our planet. I am sending your ship docking coordinates. We can receive your party immediately. Please enjoy your stay on our planet." She bowed low as the communication transmission ended.
The Ryu-oh began to automatically descend and Aeka began barking orders to Azaka and Kamidake to prepare for landing.
"Umm, Miss Aeka?" Tenchi asked, tentatively.
"Yes Lord Tenchi?" She replied.
"I was wondering… do the people of this planet know of my background?" Tenchi asked.
Aeka could see the worry in his eyes. 'Does being connected to the royal family cause him that much despair? Would being emperor by my side be so terrible?' She asked herself. "No, Lord Tenchi. No one of Jurai knows of your blood lineage. You are traveling simply as the guest of the royal family."
Tenchi nodded, a sigh of relief escaping his chest as he turned to stand near Kiyone by a view port as the ship descended. As they broke through the atmosphere, vivid waves of reds, oranges and greens appeared due to the intense heat.
Noting Tenchi's intense concentration, Kiyone asked him, "Something the matter?"
"Oh…I just don't know how you ever get used to such amazing sights, being in space and seeing different planets all the time." He answered, continuing his vigil on the descent.
Shrugging her shoulders, Kiyone merely said, "I've never thought about it. For us, it's just a part of every day life."
* * *
The reception that awaited the group as they off-boarded the Ryu-oh shocked Tenchi. There were at least 40 people lining the reception area. Waiting to greet the Princesses and her company were other royals, guards, and waiters that carried drinks and snacks
A man stepped forward to greet Ayeka and Sasami. He appeared to be in his late twenties, and was slim and tall, standing a few inches over six feet. His long hair was a jet-black that shone faintly and his hazel eyes were an alluring mix of green and gold. Dressed in a Jurian Royal Colony robe, he bowed to the party respectfully.
"Welcome to Umano, Princesses of Jurai and honored guests. We have been awaiting your arrival, and are very pleased to host your family on our planet. My name is Aoyama Masamitsu, and I am the prince of this planet." He said in a deep, charming voice.
"We do have one request of a member of your party." Masamitsu continued, turning to look at Ryouko. "This woman is the one previously known as the Space Pirate Ryouko, is that correct?"
Ryouko eyed the man suspiciously. "The one and only." She said in an even tone. She disliked the way the man's voice dripped with politeness. He sounded fake and overly confident to her.
"We understand the details of your past, and regret what has happened to you. However, we would like to ask that, in order to calm the fears of any…less educated citizens of my planet, that you please wear this bracelet." He said, pulling a box out of his pocket, which held a slim, silver bracelet displayed on a strip of black velvet. The prince continued. "This bracelet acts as a force field and will neutralize any of your powers, including attacks that could be attempted. Not that you would of course." He added.
"And if I choose not to?" She asked, noticing all of her friends watching her.
"Then I regret to say that we can not permit you to stay on our planet." He answered, keeping eye contact.
:: Ryouko, just take it. If the force field even works, I'll find a way around it.:: Washu informed her over their link.
Ryouko waged a mental war with herself. 'I don't believe this, it's so embarrassing. Do I leave and keep my pride or take the bracelet and stay with Tenchi?' She glanced over to Tenchi. Somehow, she felt his soft eyes ask her to take the bracelet. She quickly dismissed the tempting thought.
Ryouko reached her left arm out towards the man.
Aeka spoke up, annoyance ringing clearly in her voice. "Surely it does not have to come to this. No visitor that would accompany the royal family should be subjected to something such as this."
"It's okay, Princess." Replied Ryouko, cutting her off. "I don't want the people of this planet being afraid of me, and if this bracelet will assure that, then I'll wear the stupid thing."
Masamitsu smiled, obviously relieved. "Thank you for your understanding, Miss Ryouko." He said, as he moved to secure the bracelet on her wrist. He looked shocked when Ryouko grabbed the bracelet out of his hand.
"I can put it on myself." Spat Ryouko as she slipped the cold metal around her wrist. The bracelet adjusted itself to fit tightly against her arm, and she looked down at in distaste.
Aoyama Masamitsu bowed deeply and thanked the princesses again before taking his leave. Ryouko eyed him warily as she watched him disappear into the crowd.
* * *
The costal village they had arrived at began to give way to gently rolling grassy hills. In the distance, tall mountains broke the horizon like tall sentinels as the princesses and their guests traveled in a transport vehicle on their way to the resort.
Washu busily held one of her devices over her daughter's wrist as she analyzed the bracelet. A wire connected the device to her hovering holotop as it downloaded everything that she could learn about its materials and how to counteract its effects.
"I'm really sorry that had to happen, Ryouko." Sasami apologized. Ryo-ohki mournfully meowed at Ryouko, feeling her mistress' frustration.
Ryouko patted Sasami's head. "It's no biggie, Sasami. I think I kind of understand."
"Even still Ryouko, I am embarrassed that he would ask such a thing from a person traveling with the royal family." Said Aeka, matter-of-factly. "Not that it matters to me, of course." She added.
"I don't think anyone will try to attack you anyway, Ryouko." Said Tenchi, reassuringly.
Kiyone nodded. "Besides, you have the rest of us here in case anything out of the ordinary would happen."
"Guys, leave it alone already. I can fight without my powers anyway." Ryouko shrugged. "I can play by the rules for once, so drop it."
Tenchi tried to change the subject for Ryouko's sake. "This planet is really similar to Earth, isn't it?"
"Yes, Lord Tenchi." Answered Aeka, taking the bait. "Umano hosts many imported Earth grasses and trees, as it is more similar to the horses' natural habitat. In fact, our resort has a stunning Earth style garden."
"Really? That sounds interesting, Miss Aeka." Tenchi said.
"Well then, perhaps we will have to take a tour, Lord Tenchi." Aeka said, blushing slightly. Ryouko rolled her eyes at the princess's obvious tactic.
The vehicle turned a corner and they entered the manicured grounds of the resort. Landscaped shrubs, flowering trees, and brightly colored flowers grew along the road as a large, sprawling complex of buildings came into view. The buildings seemed to flow into each other spanning the length of a mile or so. The entire resort seemed to be a town in and of itself. Not only was there the main hotel, but there were also other shopping, dining and recreation areas that lay around it. As like all Jurian architecture, the buildings were crafted out of out of live trees, wood, and other organic and inorganic materials, giving the structures a streamlined, continuous appearance. The main hotel building was four stories tall with windows stretching from top to bottom. A large portico provided shelter to the main doors, and an expansive fountain made of rocks and marble with exotic plants adorned the drop off area.
As the vehicle came to a stop, attendants escorted the passengers out. Upon walking through the front doors, Aeka and Sasami were instantly run over by an overly exuberant Misaki, who threw her arms around her daughters. "Aeka! Sasami!" She wailed.
"Mommy!" Cried the two voices crushed by her hold. One of the two voices sounded something other than pleased by being hugged by her mother in public.
Misaki promptly dropped her girls and advanced toward Ryouko. "Ryouko!" She called out, arms outstretched. Ryouko sidestepped right before Misaki could grab her and pushed Washu into her place.
"I'll get you for this, Ryouko!" Washu yelled as Misaki picked the little redhead up into a bear hug. A deep clearing of one's throat was heard, and Misaki promptly dropped Washu on the floor as Azusa and Funaho approached.
"It is very nice that you could join us on vacation, all of you are welcome, so please make yourselves at home." Began Funaho.
Upon seeing her father, Sasami ran up to him and jumped, flinging her arms around his neck. "Daddy!" She exclaimed. Ryo-ohki hid behind Ryouko, still weary of the big man after he didn't like the song and dance she had performed for him during his last visit to Earth.
After greeting his daughters, Emperor Azusa, in his normal fashion, spoke shortly and gruffly to the group. "As the guests of my daughters, you are welcome to our colony planet Umano. The staff here is at your disposal. We shall contact you later." He then turned to leave, Funaho and Misaki following suit.
"See you girls in a little while!" Exclaimed Misaki as they turned the corner.
Attendants crowded around the rest of the party. "Princess Aeka and Sasami, please allow us to escort you to your rooms, they are here on the first floor. The guest quarters on the third floor have been prepared for your guests."
"I would prefer to remain near my guests." Insisted Aeka.
"We are sorry, Princess, but the Emperor has made it clear that he wished to have his daughters near to him." Replied an attendant.
Aeka realized she could argue no more. Ryouko let out a chuckle. "Don't you get any ideas, you uncivilized heathen." Demanded Aeka. "I assure you, you will be as far away from Lord Tenchi's room as possible!"
"I'm so scared, Miss Princess Prissy Pants. Have fun with mommy and daddy!" Chided Ryouko, sticking her tongue out at Aeka.
The attendants ducked as Aeka summoned her logs, Ryouko balled up her fist to call forth her energy sword. When nothing happened, Ryouko's heart sank as she looked down at hands, remembering that the bracelet prevented her from using her powers.
"And one more thing," Boomed Azusa's voice as he was about to come from around the corner again. Aeka quickly made her logs disappear just in time. "…Why are the attendants ducking?" He faltered.
Tenchi reached into his pocket and threw a pen down on the ground. "I dropped my pen, Emperor Azusa." Supplied Tenchi in a moment of quick thinking as he got down on his hands and knees.
"I see…" Said Azusa, looking down at the boy on the floor with narrow eyes. He still didn't like the boy, even after the incident with Seiryu. "Aeka, Sasami, I expect you to join us for the rest of the night."
"Yes father." Replied Aeka, still on eggshells.
Azusa left for the second time as Tenchi picked up his pen and shouted, "Found it!"
The attendants slowly rose from the ground and nervously took the group in their two separate directions.
* * *
Upon arriving on the third floor by riding a large elevator, Tenchi, Ryouko, Washu, Ryo-ohki, Mihoshi and Kiyone were greeted to a view through the backside of the hotel.
"Wooooow!" Exclaimed Mihoshi as the group got a full view out of the four story windows of a vast complex of pools and sporting areas. Little shops and larger buildings dotted the landscape, neatly tucked into the flowing landscape.
The attendants escorted them down the hall to their rooms. At the end of the hall was a circular area with five doors. "Please feel free to visit the pools and tour the grounds at your leisure. If you should desire anything, please contact any one of us." Said one attendant as each guest was escorted to their own room.
* * *
Ryouko settled into her room, and having no luggage to unpack, quickly became bored. The room was nice enough, with a king size bed, a dresser with a mirror and a couch. There was a plasma screen tv set into the wall and a bar with a little refrigerator. The bathroom was extravagant with a marble floor, a large Jacuzzi tub, a separate shower with two heads, and two sinks.
She smirked to herself, realizing the absurdity of the large, plush room. 'Now if only I had another person in here with me to make use of the huge bed and the double headed shower...' Tenchi was on her mind. 'What would it be like to wake up with him here in this room, in this bed? Heaven.'
She looked down at the metal bracelet on her wrist and sighed, her mood turning sour. Truth be told, she had surprised herself by agreeing to the prince's request. Blame it on Zero, blame it on her loving Tenchi, blame it on anything, but she was determined to clear her name with the Jurians. She had wanted to stay with her friends, and on top of that, it seemed that Tenchi had wanted her to stay. Besides, it wouldn't be the first time she had ever gone without her powers.
Begin Flashback
The Shou'ou had rendered Ryouko powerless for a short time when it had attacked in Washu's lab while she was running tests on Ryouko. Although Washu captured the Shou'ou, Ryouko's powers were lost due to a problem with the machine that had gotten involved in the attack.
Ryouko was furious at not having her powers at first. She couldn't fly, phase, or attack. So she spent her time helping Sasami with her chores. When Sasami told Ryouko she looked just like a housewife, she threw herself into chores even harder. Ryouko had even learned how to cook. She had once brought Tenchi onigiri she had made herself after a sword practice with Katsuhito, and Tenchi enjoyed it, admitting that her actions reminded him of her mother. When Washu had finally restored her powers, Ryouko almost didn't want them back.
End Flashback
'I'm sure Tenchi wanting me to stay is just wishful thinking.' She reasoned with herself, sighing and crossing her arms across her chest. Feeling her fingers brush up against the piece of construction paper in her dress, she reached into the pocket and pulled it out.
She held the paper by its neatly folded edges and began to open it. 'I remember bits and pieces of my past.' She thought. 'I wish I could remember this. I wish I could remember everything as it was.'
Staring at the picture again and getting nowhere, she began to get angry. 'I don't need these memories, they aren't important!' She crumpled the picture up for a second time and tossed it across the room into the trashcan.
Ryouko got up and paced the room twice before going back to the trashcan. After staring at it for a few minutes, she picked the piece of paper out and unfolded the wrinkles again before neatly folding it and placing it back in her dress.
* * *
In the adjacent room, Washu could sense Ryouko's frustration. She pulled up her holotop keyboard, pressed a few buttons, and teleported her clothes from her suitcases to her dresser. 'I wish I could help her out, but the more I try to get involved in her life, the more she pushes me away.' She lamented, petting Ryo-ohki, now back in cabbit form on the head.
She then concentrated on the results of the research from the bracelet that was nulling Ryouko's powers. A bewildered expression crossed Washu's face. 'Hmm, that's odd.' She thought to herself.' My computer still hasn't located a match for the bracelet's materials or the source of it's power yet.'
Shrugging, and getting up to stretch, Washu tried to relax. 'Maybe it just needs more time, that's all.'
Thinking about her daughter again, still sensing her raw frustration, Washu wished she could reach to her from the link they shared. Knowing that Ryouko was incapable of receiving the thought due to the bracelet, she quietly said to herself, "I'm here for you, little Ryouko."
* * *
Kiyone pulled each pressed and perfectly folded shirt out of her GP issue suitcase and hung it on a hanger. She lined up her toiletries on the ledge in the bathroom according to which one she used first to the one she used last. It seemed that everything in her life revolved around order and repetition.
Once she had finished unpacking, she plopped down on the bed and thought, 'I really need this vacation. I need to loosen up a little.'
* * *
Tenchi sat cross-legged on the bed after he had unpacked his luggage. He shut his eyes and slowed his breathing. Tenchi was an easily adaptable kind of man, but all the space travel and being on a different planet was difficult for a guy who was raised in the town of Okayama all of his life. He attempted to clear his mind and meditate for a while.
Ryouko. She was the first thing he thought about. When he closed his eyes he saw her face. He was concerned for her, she seemed to have a lot on her mind for the past couple of weeks, and he was glad that she had decided to accept the prince's wishes so that she could stay with them. It almost seemed like the legendary demon was maturing right in front of his eyes.
'Why am I thinking about Ryouko?' He scolded himself as he tried a second time to clear his mind, and yet his train of thought stopped at Ryouko once more.
* * *
Mihoshi sat in the middle of the floor, crumpled clothing strewn all around her, an exploded bottle of shampoo was lying in the bottom of her bag.
"Why does this always happen to me?" She whined to herself. Before she could get back to putting her clothes away, something shiny on the bedside table caught her attention. Upon further investigation, she realized it was a communication device.
Attempting to remember her partner's room number, she punched a few random numbers and buttons and spoke into the unit. "Kiyone? Are you there?" Over her own voice, she didn't hear the screams come from all of the other rooms along with a loud thump. "They have comm units in the rooms so we can talk to each other!" She continued.
* * *
Tenchi rubbed his head tenderly, he had hit it on the floor after falling off the bed. Mihoshi's voice had somehow been amplified twenty times over and pumped into at least his room. He had been so lost in thought that the sudden noise had startled him.
* * *
Washu tried to slow her heart rate as she realized that Mihoshi had figured out how to work the inter-room communicator. She went to her own and pressed a combination of buttons and spoke.
"Don't you touch that communicator again you bubble-head! You managed to broadcast yourself at maximum volume into all of our rooms!"
Mihoshi's whimpering voice could be heard over the line.
"I've managed to link all our rooms together at the correct volume now. Why don't we all go out and do something?" Suggested Washu.
Mihoshi stopped her wailing and immediately forgot about her blunder. "Yea! Let's go swimming!"
* * *
Back in her room, Ryouko prepared to phase into her swimsuit. She squeezed the muscle in her mind and imagined the swimsuit. When nothing happened she tried again. It was then that she realized that was one of her powers that were being restricted.
"Damn it." She muttered, rethinking her decision to go without her powers as she walked out of the room. She knocked on Mihoshi's door. 'She has the most similar body to mine, I'm sure she has an extra suit.'
The blonde opened the door. "What can I do for you Ryouko?"
"Um, I can't phase into my bathing suit, so I was wondering…" Ryouko began.
"If you'd want to use one of mine?" Mihoshi supplied for her.
Ryouko nodded, thankful that she didn't have to finish her request. Space Pirates don't do requests. It's a policy. Mihoshi led her in and opened a drawer of her dresser. Ryouko was shocked at the number of bikinis Mihoshi had.
"I just love bikinis!" Exclaimed Mihoshi, rummaging through the drawer. "Here we go, this one would be perfect for you Ryouko! Oh, and don't forget all the accessories too!" She said as she gathered everything Ryouko would need.
* * *
Tenchi was the first one out, wearing a knee length pair of baggy black swim trunks and a loose white t-shirt with black flip flops. He had a pair of sunglasses propped up on his head and a towel around his neck.
Kiyone came out next. She was wearing a simple teal green one-piece swimsuit with a pair of jean shorts. She carried a large sun hat in one hand and sunscreen and a novel in the other. She and Tenchi began a light conversation as they waited for the others.
Washu and Mihoshi both opened their doors at the same time. Mihoshi had on a bright pink string bikini that left little to the imagination. She had matching sandals and a pair of sunglasses tucked in the string between her breasts. In her right hand she held a bag bursting with different kinds of tanning lotions and sprays. Washu was wearing a magenta two-piece that matched her hair with a pair of Teva's on her feet and Ryo-ohki sat her head. She carried an inner tube in one hand and noodles and a raft in the other.
Ryouko was the last to come out. Tenchi's jaw dropped upon seeing her. She was wearing a bright blue bikini. A sheer sarong of the same color reached mid thigh and was open on one side. A pair of high-heeled sandals graced her feet, making her legs looks even longer than they already were. Rose-colored sunglasses sat in her hair, pushing her bangs away from her face.
"See something you like, Tenchi?" She cooed.
Ryouko chucked when Tenchi's face flushed as he tore his gaze away from her.
"Let's go swimming!" Shouted Washu, and the group made their way to the pool.
The pool was unlike anything Tenchi had ever seen. It had a sprawling shape and looked more like a natural lagoon than a swimming pool. It was landscaped to include palm trees and waterfalls and there were different sections of the pool that were unattached. One part looked like a lagoon, another part hosted waterslides and a lazy river while yet another section was designed to look like a Japanese onsen, complete with steaming hot water.
They threw their towels on the poolside lounge chairs at the lagoon section of the pool. Washu threw her inflatable toys into the pool, and an annoyed Kiyone rubbed sun tan oil on Mihoshi's back. Tenchi made an effort to look away from the two girls, as he could feel a nosebleed coming on.
Ryouko snuck up next to Tenchi. "Getting a good show?" She asked in a lecherous voice. When Tenchi started stuttering and blushing, Ryouko laughed and gently pushed her body against his. His arms pinwheeled as he fell into the pool with a splash.
Tenchi splashed in the water as he surfaced, only to hear a loud, "Cannonball!" As he saw Ryouko's body flying toward him, her arms outstretched and back curved. He opened his arms just in time to catch the reckless woman and they tumbled backwards into the water together, their bodies sliding against one another.
Resurfacing for the second time, Tenchi got the jump on Ryouko, and when she surfaced, he spun his arms around to create a wall of water that assaulted Ryouko. Once she could see again, she retaliated by grabbing one of Washu's noodles and knocking him in the head with it. The two laughed and carried on, the others watching, oblivious to Washu rummaging around a sub space pocket.
"Atomic-Super-Water-Drencher-Version-Two-Point-One, prepare to die!" Shouted Washu from the pool's edge, aiming a large barreled gun at Tenchi and Ryouko. She pulled the trigger and a huge pack on her back whirred as a spray of high-pressure water knocked the two of them to the bottom of the pool again.
"Beat that!" Said Washu, smugly.
Just then, Mihoshi stood up to reapply sun tan lotion to her legs, and as she turned around, could have sworn she felt something cold and metal brush against her back. "What was that?" She asked, innocently.
Washu began to answer her, "I'll get you for this Miho-!" The water stealing her words as she fell into the pool with a splash.
* * *
Ryouko wandered the grounds with Ryo-ohki on her shoulder while the others were still at the pool. It was getting to be mid afternoon and her stomach was grumbling as she left the pool area to find a snack bar. Washu had demanded snacks and her stomach agreed. She was a little nervous about venturing out in public alone, she wondered if anyone would have a negative reaction to her. Not that she would admit to being nervous, or what other people thought about her, of course.
Passing royals either paid no heed to Ryouko or eyed her warily and gave her plenty of room to pass. After wandering around for quite some time, Ryouko spotted a little bar tucked behind a display palm of trees and entered.
Her cat-like night vision instantly adjusted to the dim atmosphere until her eyes could naturally adjust to the lighting. Walking to the counter, she sat down on a stool and asked the attendant, "I'd like um, five snack boxes and hmmm, one of those bottles of sake over there." She pointed, smiling cheerfully.
The clerk nodded and went back to the kitchen to prepare her order as four burly men approached Ryouko.
"You're the Space Pirate Ryouko, are you not?" Asked a man with a brisk voice. The men all wore the robes of the Jurian upper class's lower level. Ryouko merely nodded, not looking for a fight, knowing that these men were not happy to see her.
An older man in the back began shaking before he shouted out at her, "I knew it was you! I'd never forget the face of my brother's murderer!"
Ryouko got off the stool and backed up as the man pushed his friends aside and reached into his robe, pulling out a short dagger-like sword. Ryo-ohki jumped off Ryouko's shoulder and bolted out of the bar.
Ryouko wanted to call for her mother over their link, but knew she couldn't use her powers. 'I'm all alone.' She realized. 'And even though these guys are out to hurt me, I can't fight back, it'll cause an uproar, self defense or not, and I have to prove to these people that I'm no longer a threat!' Her pride wouldn't let her run, and she knew she couldn't fight. So she held her ground as the man charged her.
* * *
Ryo-ohki ran as fast as she could back to the pool and jumped onto Washu's stomach, meowing loudly.
"Tenchi!" Washu called out. "Something is wrong with Ryouko!" She said, urgently, jumping off her raft and out of the pool.
"What do you mean!" He asked, scrambling out of the pool after her.
"I don't know exactly what's going on, but we've got to find her now. I know she doesn't want to get into a fight, and even though she doesn't have her powers, she still knows she can injure or kill without them. She's defenseless, Tenchi!" Washu said in a panic.
"I'll find her, Little Washu." Tenchi exclaimed as he sprinted past Washu, following Ryo-ohki. He thought to himself, 'I've got to get to her before she gets hurt! Ryouko, hold on!'
* * *
End chapter Two