Hey there! I'm so happy to be writing again! Well, with all the things that's going on in my life, I'm finally happy to say I'm back, and I'm able to finish my stories. Actually, my inspiration came from a couple of writers on the site, (they know who they are) and here I am, writing again. Thanks to all those who have read my fics so far. Also, if anyone has any ideas, let me know at my e-mail address...
Remember, I only own Tairena, Andrew, Ayane, June and the story. I only wish that in a million years, I could own Tenchi Muyo. By the way, if you haven't figured it out, the entire fanfic is based in the OAV series, after Episode 13. Actually, it takes place about 6 months after. Have fun and enjoy this long-awaited chapter!
Greetings of Confusion
It was the first day on Earth in many years. It's now early November on planet Earth. It was a habit, to currently stand on the roof of their old home. This time, it was the Masaki household at the hour of midnight. The glow of emerald hair flowing with the wind and the wings that simply glistened with pure silver light. Then the companion that joined the emerald haired human. With a lightly shaded cyan hair, the other rooftop enjoyer stared at this newcomer as if the newcomer intruded on the privacy of the ritual it owned. Soon, the snow comes, as they thought. With nothing to hide, the winged one continued to enjoy the company.
"Hey, wing-boy." The cyan-haired figured said. "Mind telling me why you're up here?"
"Lovely. How has life been treating you? Or should I say… how has live been, being free to live it as you please?"
"Just fine." She turned away, trying to ignore him. "What do you care? It's none of ya business!"
"So, you know why I've come." The emerald man chuckled and then continued; "I wouldn't come here to Earth just to bring Tenchi back as if he had gotten lost in space. You would've had Ryo-ohki come for him, am I right?"
"It'd better not be for revenge. I'll kick your butt again."
"No, it's not. I think fighting you now would upset Tenchi, and little Washu."
"Whaddya say?" the cyan haired woman angrily yelled.
"Simply put, your mother is my aunt. This makes you my cousin if my aunt has a kid. I ask a simple question. I mean no harm." The emerald haired man with wings finally sat down on the rafters. "I really don't want you to be angry with me. I just want you to live your life."
Andrew and Ryoko said nothing for a while, just enjoying the nighttime breeze. The night brought these two together on the same rooftop. Why did he come here? If the Legendary Emerald Knight is here… there must be something going on Garnith. Ryoko thought. Hmm… I do like the eldest child, Tairena. She knows how to have a good time! I've never seen a girl drink as much sake as me!
"Ryoko, I have a mind link, too. Mine is with my middle child, Ayane." Andrew smiled. He turned away, to simply open his wings, but his resemblance to an angel was uncanny. However, I do have a large arsenal of telepathic powers. He continued to himself. He then evolved to his First Form.
"Andrew, why have you come back to me?" she finally asked.
"I couldn't leave you to Kagato. I tried, but he put me and Journey into another dimension." He answered. "I'm sorry. Journey's dead." He touched her shoulder. "He killed her after finding out we had gotten free of his control. I tried to free you, but… he sent us away. I recovered, thanks to a friend."
"At least you made something of your life. Regent of Garnith and a Legendary Knight that most of the galaxy fears. Even the Galaxy Police are scared of ya." She laughed. "I can't believe you made all of that and still had three kids. You know, you could try to fix me up with Tenchi."
"Sorry. I can't." his head pointed down. "How do you know about me being both of them? Washu, wasn't it?"
"Now listen here, buster. I've known you for a very long time, you can't hide anything from me." She answered. "I knew you were both of them before I got busted."
"Alright." He chuckled and said, "I actually wanted to know what would happen if you and Tenchi got together."
"Hmm… thanks to Tenchi, I'm free. No one can stop me from what I want to do, when I do it. Even though I think, that Ayeka is such a pest. You're her uncle, can't you stop her?" She answered.
"You know… I had something to say downstairs after you and Tairena jumped on Ayeka." He continued; "I was sure that you guys were going to seriously duke it out. You know… I was afraid that Tairena involve herself."
"Why do you say that?" she asked concerned. "Tairena and I are partners now! I gotta admit, at first I thought she was stuck up like the princess, but she's really fun to be with! She knows how to party… I've never tied in a drinking contest! I just hope she doesn't go after MY Tenchi."
"That's because she's a bit like you, Ryoko. She looks up to you like a hero." Ryoko smiled and then muttered something like 'whatever' after Andrew finished his sentence. "But that's the fun… the fight between you two, the one for Tenchi. However, I'll say this: With your wild, devotional, and loving lifestyle, and Ayeka's protective and proper lifestyle… you both pose a heavy threat on him. But you know what will really catch you guys off-guard?"
"What?" she asked brusquely.
"If someone possessed both of your lifestyles." Andrew answered. "He may be young, but he sees everything whether you know it or not. Tenchi loves both of you; each of you has different qualities that he finds very appealing. Your fear should not be which one of you he chooses, but if he meets a girl possessing yours and Ayeka's qualities. His choice would be... absolute if that happens. Also Tairena doesn't want Tenchi because she doesn't want to cause any more problems for you, Ayeka, and Tenchi. Tairena's more or less an older sister to Tenchi."
"Hmm... let's be glad that's never going to happen." Ryoko admitted. But somehow… if Sasami gets a couple years older… I might be in trouble. she thought nervously.
Andrew smiled and looked up at the moon. He knew that his destiny lies elsewhere, wasn't sure of his playing grounds anymore. Think about it. A man who has lived for many thousands of years, tangled in time, it has made him rethink about his life. Ryoko is wrong, he thought. Someone in there could do it, I just hope it isn't whom I think it is.
"So, how long do you have to be here?" Ryoko asked. "I really don't like the idea of sharing this roof with you… but I think you're here for another reason. And even if you are family to me and Washu, what do you plan on doing?"
"I only want one thing, for you to live your life. I'll only be here for a while. It depends on how well my people take it," he said with a dazed look.
"Andrew, it's the first time you've ever told me the truth about yourself. You're not a very good liar." Ryoko hoped her comments would not go wasted.
"It's also the second time you've ever called me by my false name." Andrew quipped. Ryoko froze and just gritted her teeth together. "If I didn't know any better, I'd say that sake has restored your memory, if not made you wiser."
"We both were raised and trained together." She spat at the ground below her. "Care to fly with me?" she asked. Then she added, I can't believe he got me back… do he and Ayeka take comeback classes or something?
Andrew smiled. "Sure." He opened his wings and dove headfirst at the ground, opened them fully, followed by a large swoosh and his wings turning in a silvery light. "Ready, Ryoko? I'll beat you in a race, but I won't beat you with my hands and feet." They flew into the night's sky.
The angelic flow has dawned into the room of Ayeka and Sasami. There, a half-sleep Ayeka noticed the flow of Andrew's wings. They were fluid, rapid, and strong. "He only wants his people to be happy and my father is acting like a bully. Father, you know that the Garnithians and Aristoth do not bother anyone." She thought. "I know that personally. If you wanted the Aristoth Flower to be seen by the people of Jurai… then you should speak with him, not try to eliminate their race. Thank you, Uncle Andrew for pointing that out to me. I know why you are the Regent of Garnith."
She remembered that day, when her father tried to contact Andrew about joining forces years ago. Andrew neglected because he wanted the Garnithians and Aristoth to live their lives peacefully. This was after the Crystalist Tree War when Garnith was destroyed by the loss of their king and queen. Andrew had stepped in as the officiating subordinate for his very young wife, Takori, and having the title of Regent for several thousand years now. Back then,they bothwere a newbie at ruling, but he promised to do what his predecessors had left off with, and promised to consider the people when making decisions.
"Only a fool would try to oppose my father. That's what he knows. I believe there may be more to Uncle Andrew than meets the eye. When I had overheard their conversation, it was terrifying. Father had brought up the link, and that's when I decided to listen. I stood outside the door, listening to every word. When Andrew was on the screen, there was a young woman standing next to him. It was Ayane, his second daughter.
Flashback
"Regent Andrew, how are you today?" father asked. "How is my little brother doing?"
"Emperor, to what pleasure may I be of assistance to you? It is nice to see you're still strong. Are my sisters okay?" and replied.
"Oh, don't worry. I just want to talk with you in private about something." Azusa remarked. Andrew turned to Ayane and said something in another language. She nodded and left the room and then Andrew turned back to the screen.
"Is it the matter of the Aristoth Flower?" Andrew asked.
"Yes. I would like to have the people of Jurai sample its immense powers. It is a flower, right?"
"No. It is a large garden, shaped like a flower. For what reason do you want Jurai to "sample its powers"?" he asked.
"Hmm… Regent Andrew, you are a man of many talents of achievements. Being Juraian yourself, you must know that Garnith itself is a part of our empire."
"Not true. My predecessor, Queen Andrasani clearly stopped you once before. I don't think its necessary for another war. If you were asking to join forces, then I would have to decline. I would consult my people and the Council." Andrew continued, "Belligerence of that degree could startle both of our empires."
"You are correct. However, I do not understand the issue of the Aristoth Flower. Did you really have to sentence those people like that?"
"The Aristoth Flower is a part of the planet. It's similar to Jurai's Royal Trees. If it dies, a new one is born, but you're weakened. However, if the Aristoth Flower dies, then Garnith dies, along with all Aristoth and Garnithians. It is a greatly priceless asset to our people. It was given to me as a gift from Andrasani, and I intend to keep it safe until I give it to one of my children. Trying to siphon its pure energy to use in their schemes is forbidden: the sentence will be carried out as treason and capital punishment." Andrew paused to readjust his glasses, "What would you do if someone tried to cut down or burn a Royal Tree?" he asked.
"It's the same here. You know, we could join forces. I'll allow you to analyze the Royal Trees, and you'll let me analyze the Aristoth Flower."
"I'm sorry, Azusa… I cannot. Like Andrasani and Lunar Cli before me, I cannot allow that. If it were a different time and place, we could be best friends. Understand; I do not want to anger anyone. I just want everyone to understand."
"This matter could bring us to war! I want that flower, and I'll use the military of every planet nearby to get it done!"
"Then Emerald Knight Dueceyune will destroy as his predecessor, Diamond Knight Lunar Cli did. He will not tolerate such acts of obscurity. Neither will I. You know exactly what it's like to lose. If you do declare war, our friendship will have to end, and I really do not want that, neither do you. Am I correct? What would a war do if I just happen to defend the planet?"
Father became angry and pounded on the table. He regained his composure and smiled at Andrew. He cleared his throat and continued; "I see. But on another matter, my daughter Sasami…"
"I will tutor her, as Misaki requested. In addition, yes, I will find a suitor whom will suit her needs, even if she wanted to marry myself. She will not tell me why she's run away to see her uncle."
"You've helped me a great deal, forgive me, Andrew. I'm just so interested in that flower."
"I see. Yes, I have. Misaki has been a great help to me in caring for it. Just to think, she's the very woman I let go… I guess she's in very good care."
"Don't worry. She will come see you soon. She even said it herself."
"Oh boy." He began chuckling. "Don't worry about Sasami. I'll keep an eye on her for a couple of years, would that be fine?"
"Yes. I hope my eldest daughter will understand, too. I just wish I could find a suitor for her."
"Hmm… I actually wish I was younger, she's one energy ball that amazes me day by day."
"You're almost as old as I am."
"Azusa, I'll be close to twenty thousand in February."
"Right. You Garnithians live for thousands of years. Does the flower have that much power?"
"Yes. My dear brother, I must be leaving now, my children are waiting on me. I know I should be more business-like, but you know how it is. I respect you as my own brother. Please, think this trough, Azusa. If my older sisters hear you was going to declare war on me… the results could be disastrous."
"Take care, Andrew." The transmission ended. However, my father's resolution still seemed angered. I knew he was still disappointed. He hoped Andrew would let him run research on the flower. Then again, if dad declared war on Uncle Andrew… mother would surely have a fit!
Just to think, I actually called him 'uncle'! Well, he has been like that to us… actually, it was uncle's idea to stay here on earth for our "vacation". In the end, I want to be with Tenchi, forever and always.
"That darn flower. If we declared war, then the Legendary Emerald Knight would annihilate our forces just the same as Diamond Dragon Knight Lunar Cli did the first time. Hmm… this could be a problem. I'll wait until Sasami leaves and then talk with her. I may just secretly attack them." Father angrily added. "Just how do we get there? That treaty we signed lasts for another five thousand years! Father angrily added. "Just how do we get there? That treaty we signed lasts for another five thousand years!"
I left from there. He would betray a good friend like Regent Andrew because of his refusal to let us use the Aristoth Flower? That's absurd. Lord Andrew has every right to refuse. It's his, and Queen Andrasani gave it to him. I wonder if would it be okay if I talked to him? A little flirting, maybe? He does remind me of someone, I just cannot figure out whom. I will just… keep thinking. Princess Ayeka was now asleep, outlined by the glow of a silver moon.
It was morning again. A bright, shining sun shone over the Masaki Shrine. Most of the family was in the main room as a normal (if it can ever be called that) morning began at the Masaki residence. Yesterday's events left a heavy toll on everyone. To accommodate this lovely sun brightened day, Sasami is in the kitchen cooking a very special breakfast with Andrew, her mentor. However, no morning is complete with the well…
"Ryoko! Unhand Lord Tenchi at once!" yelled an angry Ayeka. "He does not belong to a demon like you!"
"Tenchi is mine! He loves me most!" Ryoko snapped. She had pulled Tenchi towards her and tried to bear hug him in the process. Ayeka ran to Tenchi, and a game of tug of war began with Tenchi as the prize… that is if he survives. Tairena and Ayane stared in pure shock as this argument went by far out of their reach. If this kept up, there may not be a prize!
"I cannot let you win Tenchi; I am the first princess of Jurai and he is of noble blood. I command you to let him go you demon-woman!" yelled an angry princess.
In the kitchen, Andrew, Sasami, and Ryo-ohki listened to the entire argument. Before Andrew could actually realize what was happening, the tenderizer he had in his right hand was now on his left foot and began to yelp in pain. Ryo-ohki tried to nibble at a carrot before she was knocked away by Andrew's wing while he was yelping.
"Oh my! Are you okay, Uncle Andrew?" After realizing what he had done, he smiled at her and kept all the obscenities inside for a later use. He picked up the tenderizer and said; "I'll be fine, Sasami. It hurts. Let's get back to cooking. Does this always happen?" he asked.
"Yes. All the time." She sighed and then continued, "Usually someone gets hurt, or the house gets damaged." she gasped, "Don't leave the bulbs unattended!"
"Right." He began working on the bulbs of radishes and continued laughing at the girls' rowdy and wild behavior. "How long should I stay, Sasami? I'll stay as long as you want me to."
"Well… Let's ask Tenchi after breakfast."
"Okay. I wonder if Little Washu wanted something to eat?"
"She'll be fine." He chuckled and started cleaning a bit of the kitchen.
Several moments later, a large crash and a huge explosion wrecked the house, laving very noticeable damage to the roof and the right half of the house. Either singed or hurt, everyone suffered a bit of pain. It was the two girls whom Tenchi feared most doing such, but he for once, didn't mind it. He thought that one day he would finally settle this affair. "Girls, will you stop arguing?" Tenchi asked. "We have guests here!"
"If this prissy princess would just let me have you to myself, I would love to stop Tenchi, my dear." Ryoko continued. "I'm not giving Tenchi to you, he'd die from your prettiness!" She teleported and latched herself to Tenchi, playfully stroking his shirt. Ayeka glared daggers at the pirate.
Andrew, angry, charred and now missing all of his feathers emerged from the rubble and stared at Ayeka and Ryoko with an unfriendly happy look. "Girls, I don't mind if you argue or even fight, it's what you guys do. However, I don't like losing my feathers!" everyone froze at the sound of his voice, it was almost demonic. He walked back into the kitchen and then yelled; "Breakfast is ready!"
With that heard, breakfast began. It was quite an extravagant meal, with both master and student preparing the food. Without the normal fighting, except when Andrew stole Ayeka's turnip-ball, it was a smooth breakfast. Unfortunately, Noboyuki could not be there due to a new project he was working on, but Andrew knew that he would like one, as he set a plate aside to take to his office later on that afternoon.
"This is lovely! Sasami, did you make all of this?" Tenchi asked.
She turned to Andrew, who only smiled and nodded. "Well, I did have some help."
"Dad? What are you thinking? I thought you promised not to cook." June added.
"Heh heh… you really think I'm going to keep that promise, June?" Andrew asked.
"Well… no." Ayane finished. "If dad didn't cook, we'd be very lost. Sasami, where did you learn to cook?"
"Wow! This is delicious!" Mihoshi exclaimed. "Can I have another?"
"I learned from Uncle Andrew, of course!" she giggled. "I know that Lady Takori taught me a bit too. I learned some on Jurai, too."
Ryoko chuckled and added; "You cook, too?"
"Why not? You're eating it." Andrew quipped.
Ryoko paused to look at everyone else who is eating and joins along with them. "Eh, guess you're right. This hits the spot!" she punched her stomach, proving her point.
"Lord- err, I mean, Uncle, how do you make these so well?" Ayeka blushed and tried to hide her embarrassment from everyone, but only two people understood what she said.
"Ayeka, just call me Andrew. I know what you mean, but I want a break from all the royal business." He replied. "Now, are you going to eat those or not?" he was referring to the Hushijai, a rare cheese mushroom only grown on Garnith. When she looked away to talk with Mihoshi, the aforementioned mushrooms were gone.
"Hey! Where are my mushrooms?" a furious Ayeka asked. "Well?" Everyone froze and didn't move at all. After a couple moments, Tairena was the first to speak.
"Hey dad, what was that special thing you wanted from me?" Tairena asked. Her father only smiled and left into the kitchen, followed by Ryo-ohki.
"Dad set a plate aside for Tenchi's dad. Can you please take it to him for his lunch? I don't think it's right he should miss such great food. And you know how rarely dad actually cooks." Ayane said. "Besides, you're going back to Garnith with Dad, right? Better enjoy your freedom."
Tairena nods her head and quickly finishes her plate. Well, I don't mind, but he'd better not try to grope me again… I'll give him what for this time. She thinks to herself. Not a bad a guy, just a little perverted… then, everyone has something special about them… even me.
When breakfast had finished, Ayane and Tairena had volunteered to clean the damaged house by using a bit of their powers and June's help. Mihoshi remembered Andrew's advice and began patrol, and Ayeka fought with Ryoko over control of the debris-inlaid television.
Meanwhile, Andrew and Sasami return to the kitchen find themselves with a large sink full of dishes to begin on, and Ryo-ohki joins them. While they start washing and drying, a couple meows are heard and a third set of hand are helping the two out. Ryo-ohki has now taken the "little girl" form and surprises Andrew with not only being able to wash dishes and help around the house, but also her special song (Yeah, the one from the OAV "Here Comes Jurai" Episode).
"How'd you do that?" Andrew asked amazed.
"Myaa Myaa!" the (A/N: what do you call Ryo-ohki in THAT form!) cabbit-girl replied happily.
"Uhh... yeah..." he replied, obliviously. "Well... can I learn it?"
"MYA!" Ryo-ohki was practically jumping off the walls (if that were possible) with excitement.
Much to Ryo-ohki's delight, Andrew and Sasami joined along with her as the three of them played, continuing the song. After entertaining Ryo-ohki, both Sasami and Andrew gave her a carrot in appreciation of the show given by the young performer. Andrew smiled in an approving manner and then reached out to hug the little cabbit.
"Awww… that was so cute, Ryo-ohki!" Andrew said while hugging the little girl. Unfortunately, the Misaki-like hug broke Ryo-ohki out of her human-like form and turned her back to her cabbit form, as she continued to eat the aforementioned carrots. Sasami, tried to hold back her giggle, released it and began to laugh along with Ryo-ohki, who just finished her carrot, and Andrew, whom was already laughing.
"Well, maybe we should talk with Tenchi now?" Sasami asked Andrew. Tairena popped her head into the kitchen and smiled at her little cousin.
"Tairena?"
"Yes?"
"You can take the food to Noboyuki now. Be careful out there, okay?"
"I'm going to town for groceries! Want anything?" Tairena walked from the dining table to the door and yelled; "I will, Daddy. If I didn't why would I be here now?" The gang came with a list of groceries and Tairena and June left for the market.
"Okay, I guess." Andrew answered. "Are you sure I should stay, Sasami? I could always get a house in the village and you could come visit anytime you wanted…"
"Nonsense, uncle. I want you stay here with us! Please?" with those adorable, pink, puppy dog eyes, she faced her uncle. Andrew knew that resisting is futile, so after what seemed like an eternity, which was only aboutfive seconds, he finally caved in and nodded in approval. (A/N If you did not know, Sasami is a master of the Puppy-eyes no Jutsu-Snake)
As they began up the stairs, Tenchi had met them halfway and they grabbed him taking him back to his room and shutting the door. "Hey! What's the big idea? Wha what's going on?" he asked while being dragged by Andrew and Sasami to his room.
"Tenchi, uncle and I have a problem." Sasami said.
"Well, what's wrong?" he asked.
"You see… I don't think I should leave the house, but I have to do something while I'm here." Andrew said. He opened his body length angelic wings and continued, "I mean, what do I do about… you know…?"
"What?" A bewildered Tenchi asked. He looked at both Andrew and Sasami whom eyes were slits.
"His wings, Tenchi!" Sasami practically yelled with an aura of fire behind her. Tenchi sweatdropped and hung his head.
"Oh… yes, that could be a problem." Tenchi said. His hand when under his chin and he thought for a while, but couldn't come up with anything.
"I don't know what to do and I really don't have any ideas."
"Don't you Aristoth have a way to lose your wings?"
"Sorry, but I want to keep my wings, buddy." Andrew answered, empathizing on the word 'wings'. Andrew sat down on the floor and thought for a moment. What could he do? Wait, how about turning into a younger form of myself? Yeah! However, wait, I was born with wings. Oh. I know! Let's see what I can do. Okay… But wait, she was... oh, never mind. I'll just come up with something.
"Andrew, you okay?" Sasami asked. Tenchi paced back and forth before noticing Andrew's position on the floor and then looked to Sasami for an answer. She only shrugged and continued to watch her meditating uncle.
"Yeah. I think I got it." He answered. "I got the solution… I hope." He gulped at the idea he was going to try. But it's worth a shot if I wanna stay on Earth, he thought.
Andrew raised his hands into the air and a bright light engulfed the occupants for just a few moments, revealing Andrew's newly acquired form. A snow white-haired human with amber eyes stood before Tenchi and Sasami. Its spiked hair went down to its lower back and turned to Tenchi and Sasami in a graceful gesture.
Who they thought was Andrew now wore a red and white jacket and matching pants, and looks a lot younger and little less muscular than his previous form and he is shorter than he was when he first came here. Not including this new form was female! Tenchi immediately began to have a nosebleed due to this girl and quickly passed out on his bed.
"Uncle Andrew? Is that you?" Sasami asked. She and Tenchi recovered and finally got the notion that Andrew's transformation was complete.
"Wha.. What happened, Andrew?"
"Tenchi, Sasami, I've taken the form of my little sister, Journey. Of course… the body is predominately and features are hers." He answered. However, his voice was feminine. "However, I have a slight problem, you see..."
Flashback
"Remember, if you stay in a transmuted or morphed form for too long, you'll permanatly be trapped in that person! Journey gave you her memories. You can create an astro-form of her using that ability. However, this takes a lot of energy, and is easily borken if enough force is applied to the astro-form. Be careful, you can only stay in this form no longer than seventy-two hours. Any longer, and both you and Journey will become one. If that happens, I'll have to call you 'Journey Lazerninth Rayne Becardo, The Archangel of Peace.'"
"Aunt Taliyah, isn't it wrong to temper with a person's memories?" a young Andrew asked.
"Yes. But your sister wants to help you." she replied.
"But I don't wanna hurt her... ever." Andrew replied. "I just can't."
"I know you love your little sister a lot, Dueceyune. However, this is something she wants to do for you. Honor her memory be allowing her to help you." Taliyah answered.
"Then maybe, I should break the limit." he spat.
"Don't you dare!" she yelled. "I refuse to hear my nephew and niece embodied together. I swear if that ever happens... I will disacknowledge you and your entire family's existance."
"Shut up, Taliyah. I don't care anymore. I am leaving...for good." Andrew seethed these words out of his lips as he walked away from his aunt.
End Flashback
"I can't stay in this form for very long, and I lose it easily... like Ryo-ohki's humanoid form."
"Wow. Your sister was beautiful, wasn't she?"
"Yes." He said. "I loved her with all my heart before she died."
"You sound like Ryoko when you said that word."
"That's because Ryoko and I were raised together, Tenchi." The eerie silence scared Sasami into holding onto Andrew, and making Tenchi nervous. "Sorry about scaring you, Sasami. I'm okay now, Tenchi took care of him."
"You're right. I'm acting so silly." Tenchi chuckled and scratched the back of his head.
"He still scares me." Sasami added.
"Well, do you like my new form?" Andrew asked. "Remember… my name is Journey."
"Yes. But in that form, how old are you?" Tenchi asked.
"Well… I don't look that much older than Sasami; nor do I look older than you. So, I'll say about fourteen, fifteen." He answered. "Tenchi, do you remember what Grandpa said to us yesterday?"
"Oh man! We have to practice today!"
"Sasami, I look forward to dinner. See you later! Tenchi! Let's go!" he and Tenchi ran out of his room and down the stairs until Andrew's inexperience into his sister'sbody knocked himself and Tenchi, and tumbling down the stairs was the result, as they in a crumpled heap. It paused the television for just a moment, and Ayeka and Ryoko screamed and Tenchi quickly jumped up and out the house, draggingJourney along.
"Tenchi? What was that?" Ryoko asked.
"Where did he go?" Ayeka wondered. Hmm… maybe they're going to the fields. I'll go and observe them later.
Meanwhile,Tenchi and Journeystopped running midway between the shrine and the home. Andrew still was not used to how his sister's body worked, but if he could get her reflexes to match his in his normal body he would somehow manage to try sword practice.
"Andrew?" Tenchi asked worried.
"Tenchi,my name isJourney." she replied.
"What?"
"I amletting her take control of this body." Journey replied. "I think it's pretty fun going back and forth."
"Could you change back?" he asked.
"I could die trying two transformations in the same day." She answered. "Besides, I'm happy as I am."
"That's true." Finally, they reach the shrine upon Katsuhito's expectations. From within the shrine office, he sensed Tenchi's arrival and simply walked out to begin practice.
"Well! Who's this young lady, Tenchi?" he asked curiously.
"Hi grandpa." Tenchi replied. "This is Journey, I guess she'll be staying with Tairena and Ayane. She's their aunt."
"This young girl?" he asked confused.
"Hey! I'm well older than you think!" the little girl responded angrily. "I'm not someone you can toy with, either."
"Huh?" Both of them asked.
"Oh forget it. Look, my name is Journey Halo Rayne Becardo, sister of Andrew."
A perplexed looked crossed Tenchi and his grandfather's faces. This was already bad, did Andrew truly transform into Journey. The two men stared at her long and hard. That's when Tenchi realized that Andrew had let her take over completely!
"Miss Journey, do you know where your brother is at?"
"Yes. But I'm not telling no old man!" she smiled and picked up a stick and stood in a stance only performed by Andrew by moving her left arm behind her back, raising her right hand with the stick over her head and taking her left leg and twisting it behind her right leg. Finally, she stared at Tenchi and Katsuhito in a graceful manner.
"Tenchi, does this young lady know about swordsmanship?"
He chuckled nervously and then said "I guess, but I haven't seen her in action."
"I was taught by my big brother. He's a very good warrior."
"Well… Tenchi, let's see how well she does. I will fight her myself." Katsuhito stepped forward with his bokken and tossed it to Journey. She caught it with her left hand and waited for him to remove his second from behind him, but he didn't. In a thought, Journey fired an energy ball from her right hand at Katsuhito. It was deflected, sending it through the forest.
"Wha? What are you!" Tenchi stammered. "Are you really his little sister!"
"Come!" the priest barked.
Journey teleported behind Katsuhito and swung downward quickly, but her attack was parried and sent her flying forward into the ground face first. She stayed there for a moment, and then finally stood up, staggering. It took her a moment to realize that she almost lost control of herself and then picked up her bearings and turned to Katsuhito.
"Hmm… you're very fast. However, your techniques require concentration. You cannot win if you don't have any force behind your attacks."
"We'll see." She stood up, taking her stance again and completely disappeared, even to him. When she finally struck, a jab was implanted into her stomach, and she fell to the ground.
"Grandpa! You didn't… did you?"
"No. I just knocked her unconscious. Take her to the shrine where she can rest." He answered. That girl was too powerful to understand her own abilities. If Andrew trained her… then Andrew himself must be at least ten times more powerful. This could be a problem. But I sense something about this little girl that doesn't make sense… maybe Washu will be able to understand her abnormal power readings. he thought to himself while he and Tenchi carried Journey into the shrine and laid her down. If Journey was in her "true" form, I would've had to force Tenchi to help.
"She's pretty good, eh, grandpa?"
"Her brother must be an astounding warrior. I must see Andrew, or should I say, Dueceyune Becardo in action myself."
"Do you think we should continue?"
"No. I think looking after this girl would be your concern. Dinner will be ready soon." With that said, he left the shrine.
Tenchi worried about how strong Journey really was. Then again, she's not exactly Journey… she's part Andrew. How did she know? I sensed she knew about the hit, but couldn't do anything about it. I'll just stay here until she gets better.
After an hour or so passed, Journey's body twitched a couple of times and then she began to move, and slowly stirred her eyes awake. She quickly took note of her surroundings. Afterwards, she spoke: "I have to know something, Tenchi. My brother is asking me to return to him. I guess that hit is reversing the transformation." she looked away fromTenchi."Please don't be mad at me..." she added, sadly.
"Of course not, Journey! I'm mpressed you made grandpa break a sweat!" Tenchi answered truthfully.
"No problem." She answered her own question by giving Andrew back his body. He was back in his full Aristoth form.
"Andrew? How do you feel?" he asked.
Andrew rubbed his ribs and laughed. "Geez. Old man knows how to fight. Ouch." He stood up and smiled. "Anyways, you ready? Let's get something to eat. Man, he smacked Journey around like it was nothing."
"You watched the fight from insider her?"
"Let this had be a couple thousand years ago, Journey would've won ten seconds ago."
The two walked about the steps back to the shrine just as a hole erupted from the sky. When the hole closed, a spaceship crashed into the water, soaking both Andrew and Tenchi. They ran over to see a waterlogged Mihoshi drag herself out of the water. Before Andrew could even say a word, Ryoko wrapped herself around Tenchi and was tossed off and landed in mid-air, then landed softly on the ground stared at both men, and then took her look at the lake. Taking Andrew's exact words out his mouth.
"Rough landing?" she asked.
"I'm all wet!" then ensued crying from Mihoshi. Andrew walked over and helped her to her feet. The four stood in the bright sunlight for a while. Until the ears of Andrew picked up what was coming.
"Dinner's ready!"
Groaning in their stomachs, the four heroes found it almost impossible to move. All eyes turned to Andrew for a solution to their problem. Hmm… maybe a simple teleportation trick from Andrew might solve the trick, ya?
"I have no trick for movement. Well, I did… Washu cut off the majority of my powers. I'm just as powerless as you, Tenchi." He answered. "Let's troop."
"I'm just hungry… is it dinner now?" Mihoshi asked.
"The less we know the better," Ryoko bitterly answered.
"Why do you say that?" Tenchi asked her, "Is there something wrong with dinner?"
Mihoshi turned to Andrew in a puzzled manner and then took his hand. "Come on, silly! Let's go eat!"
The four returned to the house, which wasn't in the best of shape. Entering the front door, our four lovebirds walked into the living room.
"Hey, we're home!" Tenchi yelled and walked into Tairena, knocking her over. Blushing, the two scrambled to their feet and apologized. "I didn't see you, I'm sorry, Tairena."
"I'm okay." Tairena answered as she brushed herself off, "Hey dad, can I talk with you for a moment?" Andrew nodded as Tairena grabbed both him and Mihoshi and took them into the kitchen. Meanwhile, Sasami and June were talking in the kitchen as Tairena and the others entered. The conversation paused for a moment, but it was long enough to get a stare at the others by the two princesses.
"What's for dinner, Sasami?"
"Well… how about you make it, Andrew?" He nodded and smiled. "Tairena, what was so important?"
"Oh… I wanted to know if we'll be staying here on Earth for a while."
"I-"
"Of course you are!" Sasami giggled. "You wanted to know, right? How about a month or two?"
"You know what? A year or so might help." Mihoshi added.
As everyone offered suggestions, Ryoko and Andrew remained silent. Ryoko knew Andrew's stay wasn't a long one. She knew he came for a reason, and she was going to get it out of him before it got Tenchi in danger. I don't want Tenchi in danger. I have enough problems with Ayeka and the others, with the exception of Sasami here; I don't want any of them around him. Please, don't do this. she thought. Oh god. He's looking at me. What do I do? Andrew smiled at Ryoko and walked back outside. His eyes… she thought. His eyes show pain…like mine. He really did want to free me from Kagato long ago.
"Dad?" Tairena started.
"He's fine, Tairena. He was probably thinking about something like Washu does." Ryoko answered. Of course… he was trying to protect his kids now. He knew Tenchi would be willing to help… alright. I will too.
"I know what's he going to do. He's going to talk with granddad." Tenchi answered. "Ryoko, can you be patient and wait until he gets back for dinner?"
She pouted and disappeared. I'm going to find out what he's up to. Even if it kills me. She trailed off, following Andrew to the shrine, where Andrew was intending to go.
Andrew, one for knowing all type of energies, sensed Ryoko a long time ago, but did not want her to feel alienated by telling her he felt her moving. Continuing towards the shrine, he disregarded the thought of using Journey's form again in the same day. What would Andrew say? What would he do? What his actions worth the time of someone like Yosho? It didn't make sense to Andrew. Now it began. The setting sun told Andrew he didn't have much time to work with, and he still had to make dinner. Upon approaching the shrine, Andrew took a moment to bask in his surroundings. He knew someone was nearby, probably Ryoko.
He heard rumbling in the grass, and then a sudden slashing movement. Andrew jumped back and opened his wings, preparing for a Needle Wing. Then, a wooden object revealed its shape and brought itself towards Andrew. In response, Andrew ducked and swung his fist to find nothing was in the direction he swung. For several moments, no sound was heard and neither he nor his attacker moved. Suddenly, Andrew revealed Trailblade from its holster and dropped half of it into the ground, and activating the other half. Andrew realized what this was- a test. If he could know what the conditions for passing was, he would excel at it. Andrew then threw Trailblade (the half he was holding) into the air and took Crystal Wing from it's holster and swung in a twirling 360 degree motion, connecting with his attacker behind him, connecting with a thud.
"Looks like you win, Andrew." The pain stricken voice said. "I didn't think you could wield both weapons at once. I'm impressed, but you forgot one thing…"
Oh hell..."This is going to hurt…" Andrew managed to get out before Trailblade thunked him on the head, knocked him down. After retrieving both weapons and his mind straight, he knew that Yosho predicted his arrival. "So, you knew I was coming up here. I have two questions: one, why are you trying to delay the inevitable? Two… if you knew, why did you try to hold back on Journey?"
"Ryoko's spying proven it for me." He pointed at the smoking leafless tree, which sat a char-grilled Ryoko, pouting angry with Andrew. "Second, I don't have to answer to you. Your answers are in front of your face, and you're not looking for them."
"Oh… Sorry, Ryoko. I didn't know I hit you, too."
"That hurted. You're lucky I love you, Andrew." She remarked angrily. "Otherwise, I'd chase you form here to hell and back… like I'm gonna do now!" She brought her energy sword into view and flew at Andrew, swinging it as she did so. "Come here!" she yelled. Andrew shrieked (Homer Simpson scream) and began to run.
Yosho and Andrew darted off in two separate directions, Andrew back down the shrine stairs and Yosho into the shrine itself. Hoping to be freed from this temporary insanity, Yosho began meditating once again. You're something my dear. You truly are a fun-lover, as Misaki said.
Andrew, on the other hand ran down the snow-covered stairs as fast as he could. The slipperiness of an unseen, ice-covered step knocked him forward and then down the stairs, bouncing along the way. When Andrew finally stopped and slowly stood up, hearing Ryoko's laughter made him look back at a flying, laughing uncontrollably pirate who stopped chasing him.
"Oh, you're too much!" she cried while laughing, "I quit! Let's go eat!" she continued laugh while approaching Andrew. "I'm serious, you're about as clumsy as that police officer!"
"You'd better hurry with the food, dad. Looks like we don't have… much time left before we hurt you." Ayane commented. "Did you have a nice trip?"
When Andrew finally returned to the house, the first thing that popped into his mind was getting Ryoko back of that painful expenditure. However, he himself thought it was quite the joke, and somehow, someway, he let his emotions get the best of him. Normally, he just takes things as they are in a carefree manner. Recently, his trip through space has made him change, and he has been edgy since. Oh well… just better make dinner without eating it first! He hurried along the way in the kitchen.
When the door opened, Noboyuki, Tairena, and June came in the door with a large amount of groceries and Andrew felt now that they are here; dinner can be served as Andrew set the food out for everyone on the table. He did not have to call anyone, as the smells of smoked fish, noodles, and many more Garnithian and Japanese foods due to the ingredients Andrew got from onboard the ChronosphereX19 brought everyone to the table.
Now, this is more like a family. Makes me proud to be here with Tenchi and the girls, Andrew thought. Finally, the confusion is over, it seems our families are getting along just fine… In the background of his thoughts are Ayane, Ayeka, Ryoko, and Tairena trying to fight over the last steak. Looking out the window, he smiled.Of course… things will never change, will they, Tsunami?
"Not at all, my dear… not at all." the goddess replied.
Alright! Man, that was pretty long! This is by far the longest chapter I have written (most chapters except 1 and 6 were 2500+). For the most part,from here on out,this story mostly talks about Tenchi and Co. I include Ayane and June, but that's about it. Andrew and Tairena... they are M.I.A.Oh, and I will be making updates to my previous stories, because I think they could use some sprucing up, too. I'll try to add as many as I can, too! It's so hard being a teenage father… "Your journey begins with a single step. Take the step and never, ever look back. You have chosen to live. Keep living, and your journey will be a meaningful one." – Komora Becardo