*Disclaimer: The main characters in this story are property of AIC, Pioneer, & Viz Comics; all the others were thought of by me. Any similarities are just dumb luck so please don't sue me.
** Author's notes: This story takes place six months after "Second Chance of a Lifetime" in which Tenchi and Ryoko have finally found each other. If you haven't read 'Second Chance', then you'll have no clue to what's about to happen in this one…. ENJOY!!
Second Time Around: by alighthawk
Chapter Three: "Meeting the In-Laws" (Part One)
One Week Later…
The Okayama Prefecture; one of the most beautiful and peaceful places on the island of Honshu, if not all of Japan. Nestled in the area was the town of Kurashiki, which was the home of a certain Shinto priest and his family shrine, hidden in the lush vibrant colored mountains just beyond the hills. For generations, this shrine had been under the care of the Masaki family, tending to all who required prayer, meditation and guidance and on this particular lovely November morning, the latest of the Masaki priests was tending to his daily ritual of sweeping and watering down the stone steps that lead from the base of the hill to the shrine itself.
Normally young Katsuhito Masaki would have his grandfather monitoring his activities and endlessly reminding him of his duties to the shrine and their home, but on this crisp cool day, his grandfather was tending to other 'affairs' and in his place was a lovely raven-haired girl who Kats had fancied for some time.
Keiko Sadamoto had been friends with the young Masaki lad since Kats moved from his father's house in Urawa in order to enroll in the Okayama High School where all his elders once attended, starting with his Great Grandfather Nobuyuki. Initially it was thought that young Kats was sent to Grandpa Tenchi's home so he can be an apprentice at the shrine. However, what most people didn't know that the real cause for Kats' move was the slow decline of the relationship between Tenchi's son Amagasaki and his children. Daughter Achika eventually moved to America where she's now happily married to a star baseball player. Katsuhito's turn to leave came later on after he had enough of his father's demands and the lack of attention he received when it was obvious that Amagasaki paid more attention towards his architecture corporation than his family. Not that Katsuhito's father didn't love his family; after all he did provided them with everything they could ever want, but as Grandpa Tenchi liked to remind his family: "All the material things in this world and beyond cannot guarantee you happiness! You kids best remember that because I speak from experience!"
As Kats looked across the multicolored mountainous landscape that was laid out in front of him, he recalled those words his wise old grandfather told him years ago.
It never occurred to me that when Grandpa said this, he was speaking from the heart and not just some lecture. I mean he had everything he wanted, but he still lost Grandma and lived so many years alone before I moved in. To top it off, he had that cancer that even the doctors of two worlds couldn't find a cure to save him.
The petite brown-eyed girl, wearing a faded pair of jeans with a brown pullover sweater, helped out as she sprayed water around the steps as Kats did his sweeping. As she looked up to gaze at her love interest, Keiko saw how lost in thought he was. She put the bucket of water down and slowly stepped her way upwards as Kats continued to gaze up into the morning blue sky…
Grandpa's the most strong-willed person I ever met, but even these last few years were dragging him down until 'she' came back into his life…
'She' being the former space pirate Ryoko, who returned to Earth after a 68-year absence. It was her love for Kats' grandfather that made her stay away from Tenchi so he can live out a normal life and it was that same love that brought her back to Earth when she discovered that he was slowly dying from cancer. After witnessing the miraculous transformation that reverted Tenchi back to his youthful self made Katsuhito realized that very few individuals in the universe get a second chance on life. As the years dragged on and was slowly dying, all Tenchi ever wanted to see was the one thing that his heart yearned for so many years since the days of his youth. Ryoko's love was all Tenchi ever wanted or needed and neither the wealth nor material possessions in the universe could compete with that wonderful feeling.
They're coming back today and we still haven't told father the whole story. He's gonna wigged out when he sees grandpa and his fiancée! Kami, please give me strength….
"Earth to Kats! Hey Katsuhito, are you okay? You look kind of spaced out…"
"Huh? Oh Keiko, I'm sorry, I was just thinking about Grandpa and his girlfriend; they're coming back today and there are so many things that needs to be explain…" Kats began to scratch the back of his head as he tried to explain the situation to Keiko. Despite all the times they were alone, Kats could never explain about Tenchi and his new look. As far as everyone knew, old man Masaki reacquainted himself with a woman who was his first love and shanghaied him to the farthest corners of the globe.
Kats began to clap his hands together and quietly whispered an old Shinto prayer, completely confusing Keiko in the process.
"Kats! What's wrong with you? You're acting like the end of the world is coming. What are you hiding, hmmm?"
Kats was trying his best to find the words to explain on what was going to happen soon as Keiko stood next to him and snuck her left arm around his, clinging to him. Even with the discovery of alien beings from other parts of the galaxy, how does Kats explain the events that transpired over six months ago? Sometimes he'd wake up and wonder if all of it was a dream, only to see that the house was vacant of its master. Of course Keiko would dropped by, warming up the house and Katsuhito with her presence.
"Keiko? Do you remember that I told you that Grandpa is a direct descendent of the Jurai Royal Family and that he could have been King of that empire if he has chosen to?"
"Yeah I remember and I almost didn't believe you until you introduce me to Ambassador Sasami Jurai two years ago. Why are you bringing it up? What does this have to do with his return, is he going to Jurai or something?" Keiko asked as Kats reached down and held her hand for assurance.
"No…he's not going to Jurai, but let's just say that his Juraian heritage has a built in feature that allows him to 'change' the way he looks…"
"Change that way he looks? What kind of change, like a facelift?"
"Uhm…you could say that…" Ancestors please help me. If I can't make this clear to Keiko, how in heavens am I ever going to explain this to dad aka 'Mr. Personality?' As Kats shook his head at the dilemma, Keiko continued to deduce what was the big secret he was trying to let out.
"Well hon, if your granddad's getting a facelift for his girlfriend, I think that's sweet. Many older men are getting nips and tucks in order to look younger. What's the matter, afraid your father might disapprove?"
"Keiko, I know I'm not explaining myself clearly, but believe me when I say that the change Grandpa had is way beyond what any plastic surgeon could up with…"
Keiko giggled as she saw how bewildered Kats was and tried to make things better by planting a kiss on his right cheek. He smiled at the sensation of her warm, moist lips touching his skin and was going to reciprocate her affections when suddenly a gust of wind swept over the shrine and nearly knocked the couple down the stone steps.
As they recovered to get up, they saw this huge object hovering above them, blocking the sunlight from the shrine area. It turned to be 'The Azusa'; the Jurai tree ship named after the late emperor and the father of the Empress Ayeka and her sister Sasami who just happened to be on board with invited guests.
The young couple hurried down the steps as the great ship hovered just above the lake and within seconds a bright yellow beam shot out from the belly of the ship and onto the ground just in front of the Masaki house. Moments later five figures phased outside, four humans and one small cabbit.
"Ah, home sweet home! I never thought I be so happy to be back after being away for so long…" Tenchi said as he happily looked around the familiar surroundings; getting readjusted to the land he had called home for so long.
Ryoko, standing right behind him with Ryo-oki, smiled contently as she started to let the feeling sink in that once again this house will be hers to share with the young man she had loved for so long. As she cradled the cabbit while gently stroking her ears, another happy figure started to join in with Tenchi's thoughts.
"Well Tenchi, after globetrotting the world for over six months, I would think this place would had slipped from your mind, but you're right, it's nice to be back here." Sasami added as she stood next to the young Shinto priest with Kamidake attentively behind her.
"I have to admit, I didn't think about Okayama much while we were away except to call Katsuhito from time to time, but seeing the house, the shrine and everything else makes me realize how much of it is a part of me and now I get to share it all with my future wife…"
"Are you referring to me Mr. Masaki?" Answered Ryoko as her ears perked up at the mentioning of her future role in the house. In all the years she been traveling the universe, Ryoko had always strived to find a place to fit in since she left here sixty eight years ago, only to find that her path would take her back to these parts once more. The one place she could honestly say that made her the happiest and knowing that she would be spending the rest of her days with Tenchi was something her heart was relishing at this very moment.
"GRANDFATHER!! HEY GRANDFATHER!! Welcome back! I thought you'd never get here." Yelled out Kats as he rushed over to greet his elder and fiancée. Keiko was right behind him until she saw how Kats stopped by a young man and bowed to him, only to have that youngster return his greeting with a hug. She stood back, trying to see where the elderly Masaki was.
"Hello Keiko. It's been awhile hasn't it?" Young Tenchi greeted the young lady as Keiko gave Tenchi a quirky smile. She was wondering how did this young man know her name until she carefully studied his face and realized whom the person was. Shock and bewilderment entered her mind as she tried to fathom what kind of operation could leave a person so youthful.
"Mr. Masaki? Is that you? You almost look as young as Kats and me! How is this possible? The last time I saw you were so frail and dying from cancer. Katsuhito…was this the surprise you tried to tell me?" Keiko asked with utter confusion all over her face. Kats sighed as he realized that this was going to take some explaining to do…
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The hours seem to pass so quickly as everyone returned to the house for some lunch and catch up conversation. The whole group was delighted that Sasami had volunteered to resume her role as Mistress of the Kitchen for the day as she made lunch from whatever was available in the refrigerator and cupboards. Kats had remembered to go grocery shopping the day before; knowing that his grandfather might be hungry for some home cooking. Even though his cooking has improved over the months, Katsuhito wasn't about to complain about the Princess of Jurai performing the culinary tasks, which everyone found was a treat to watch.
As they gathered by the dining room table, Tenchi and Ryoko rattled off their six-month adventure around the world to the young couple and their honored guests. From their first stop on Hawaii, to the outback of the Australian continent, to the Great Wall of China and so forth. It was a time in which they rediscovered each other and the love they had kept hidden for so long. Everything was one big happy joyride that eventually climaxed with Tenchi's proposal of marriage on top of the Empire State Building in New York.
Sasami was all giddy, even though she heard the story more than once while Kamidake simply shrugged at the thought of Tenchi shouting from the top of his lungs, proclaiming his love to Ryoko on top of the old skyscraper that night…
"Y'know Kamidake, I don't ever recall you doing something like that for me since we've been together…how come?"
"Because my dear, a knight must maintain his proper sense of being, his code of chivalry and composure. Besides, I would never let you con me into doing that like Ryoko did to Tenchi." The knight looked back at his love with a silly grin. Sasami thought about slugging him, but remembered the serving of shredded beef she was holding with her hands.
Everyone laughed as Tenchi scratched his head; remembering the incident with a different twist…
"Well, if anything, it did lead to some of the best sex I ever had. I never thought Ryoko could be so 'flexible'…"
"TENCHI!?! Do you mind? Some things should be kept under wraps ok?" Ryoko's face blushed a scarlet red, as she couldn't believe her Tenchi could be so open in front of people. This was the part of him she was still adjusting to after being away for so many years. It was a pleasant change, but sometimes he could really amaze her with his boldness.
"I don't why you're blushing Ryoko," Sasami chimed in. "As I recall, you weren't too bashful when Tenchi ended up in the ladies bathroom and having to see you entirely naked. By Tsunami can this boy nose bleed or what?"
"Excuse me princess, do you mind? There are children present here." Tenchi interrupted as he tried to change the subject from his awkward teenage days with the old gang.
"Grandpa, me and Keiko are almost twenty-five years old. As it is, your restoration makes you eligible to be carded at most drinking establishments, heh-heh."
"Thank you for reminding that Kats, now for sure I'm going to grow a beard or at least a goatee. I guess I should be lucky that my Jurai power didn't revert me back before puberty…"
"Tell me about it sweetie. If that would have happened, I could have been accused of robbing the cradle…"
"RYOKO!!"
"I was kidding Tenchi. Geez, you may be young again, but you can be so cranky sometimes y'know?"
Everyone in the room busted out laughing as they watched the two lovers playfully bickered back and forth. It's been years since such sounds had permeated the walls of this old house. Tenchi got up, coughing from all the laughing and went inside the kitchen to control himself. Ryoko went right behind him.
"Everything's ok sweetie? You look kinda flustered there…"
"Oh it's nothing Ryoko, I just had to stop laughing before I busted a gut, but it really felt good to laugh inside this old house one more."
Ryoko had a confused look on her face when Tenchi said that. Was it really that sad being here these last few years since his wife passed on? She wondered to herself, but quickly thought of something to change the subject.
"Tenchi dear…did I ever tell you how happy I am that we're back and how I'm looking forward to proving how I'm gonna be the best home maker in all of Japan?"
"Really? I'm kinda surprised to hear you say that Ryoko…"
"Why did you say that? You don't think I could be a good house wife to you?" Ryoko gave the young priest a mild look of shock and sadness; thinking for a moment that Tenchi couldn't see her as a good homemaker. Tenchi noticed and quickly corrected himself.
"What I meant to say love is that I would had thought that you would've gone back to being a bounty hunter again once we're married. I didn't think you would want to stay here all the time just being the lady of the house." That's what Tenchi had thought.
Ryoko paused for a moment. In all the time they spent together on Earth, she never gave that much thought about what she would do once she found Tenchi again. She was a bounty hunter now and a good one too. Between her skills as a pirate and whatever tricks Nagi taught her, she amassed quite a fortune to the point that she can live comfortably for a long time. Between her and Tenchi's Jurai Trust that Yosho had set up for him before he died, money was the least of their worries. But the excitement of chasing criminals and scum alike was something Ryoko grew to love over the years and it never occurred to her that once she committed herself to Tenchi that she may have to give that life up, or at least she thought so.
"I-I…I never thought about it that much since I've been back Tenchi." Ryoko stammered, trying to focus her thoughts from the stirring of emotions that were trying to come up from the surface of her heart. "To be honest, I always told myself that if I could find a way to be with you always that I would give up everything…just to have you in my life. I thought that having your love again was enough for me, b-but…"
"But you're not sure about grounding yourself here on Earth permanently, is that it?"
"I-I'm sorry Tenchi. You know I love you with all my heart and I will never do anything to displease you, but this was something I think we should've had discussed much earlier. I'm really sorry that I…mmph?"
A pair of soft lips cut off Ryoko's next words, pressing hard onto hers. She quickly forgotten what she was going to say next and instead returned her lover's affections, nipping his upper lip with her fangs.
"What were you going to say honey?" Tenchi whispered sweetly into Ryoko's left ear, her body slightly quivered as he softly blew into her lobe.
"Uh…uh nothing that can't wait until later ok?" Ryoko replied as she lifted herself onto the kitchen counter and lifted the hem of her white dress so she could wrap her legs around her lover. With the wooden door panels that separated the dining room from kitchen closed, the cyan beauty felt the urge to be naughty.
Tenchi happily complied as he pressed his body against hers, wrapping his arms around her and feeling his hands rubbing against her back. He started to give in to his inhibitions as he took his tongue and pried open Ryoko's lips, probing around the roof of her mouth and licking it against her teeth. As the young lovers were starting to engage in a rather steamy moment, fate decided to interrupt them once more…
"Do you people mind? I mean I know you got the 'hots' for each other and all, but geez, can't you wait until we leave and then jump on each other's bones upstairs?" Sasami sighed as she entered the kitchen to get some more steamed rice. It was a good thing that Tenchi did revert to his younger self she thought. She doubted very much that he'd survived one night of love making with Ryoko considering the way they act around each other.
As both Tenchi and Ryoko came off the counter, trying to straighten out their clothing, Sasami just waved at them. "Just bring out the Devil's Food Cake I brought from New York will ya? It seems that I've chosen the right dessert for this occasion after all, heh-heh."
The embarrassed couple reluctantly came out of the kitchen with dessert and right into a playful scolding from Katsuhito, "You are suppose to lead your charges by example Grandfather, but I'm starting to think that you and Granny Ryoko are just as impetuous as us youngsters..."
"And if you continue to insist on calling me 'Granny Ryoko' young Katsuhito, you may not live long enough to see your grandchildren, is that understood?" Ryoko smiled ever so menacingly with her light sword on display. Kats quickly quieted down and decided to eat his cake.
"So Miss Keiko, what do you think of the new version of Masaki Tenchi, eh?" Kamidake asked the young lady as she tried to absorb all that was happening before her. Keiko always considered herself to be an open-minded person; but in no way she was prepared to see what she had witnessed today.
"Well, I must say when Kats told me about Mr. Masaki's change, this wasn't what I was expecting. However, given the stories that Kats, Princess Sasami and Mr. Masaki had told me over the years, I shouldn't had been so surprised by it all. Now I know where Kats gets his good looks from…"
"Gee, you really think so Keiko?" Kats meekly asked as Tenchi mockingly blew his fingers and brushed them against his chest. Ryoko just gave him a look and shook her head in disbelief. She then leaned against Katsuhito to test a theory she had.
"Say Keiko, does Kats gets shy and all when things tend to get 'heated'?"
"Ryoko, don't go there!" Tenchi protested, as he knew what the cyan girl was getting to.
"Don't be such a party pooper Tenchi, I wanna see if all the Masaki men act the same way, or just you when it came to girls. So what's the story Keiko? Kats' a real tiger or bashful like grandpa was when he was a kid?"
"Well, Katsuhito's really sweet and all and sometimes likes to be affectionate without me nudging him from time to time, but then again, I could see why Mr. Masaki would be shy considering all you women were living in the same house at one time…"
"Baloney! Tenchi was shy with the girls period, but he was shy in a cute sort of way right Tenchi?" Sasami joined in as the women were ganging up on the Masaki men.
"Girls that was ancient history! I'm not that timid little kid anymore ok? And Kats here is doing just fine with Miss Keiko, right kids?"
"Yep, we are. Since you guys been away for so long, Keiko and me have been really getting to know each other real well. She's also been helping me out with the shrine chores since you and Ryoko took off. I like to think the feeling's mutual right Kei?"
The young raven-haired didn't say a word, but instead reached out and took hold of Kats' right hand. Seeing the pleasant smile was all that it needed to be said.
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After dessert was finished and the women cleared out the table, everyone headed towards the living room to continue hearing Tenchi and Ryoko's reminiscing their wild adventure around the Earth. Tenchi made everyone laugh when he recounted their trip to the Italian city of Pisa and Ryoko's attempt to straighten out the Leaning Tower before Tenchi had the chance to explain that the building was meant to stand in the crooked position. Finally, the discussion of the couple's plan for marriage came into focus.
"I kind of suspected that you guys would take that step, considering what you went through, but are you sure you want to get hitched right away?" Katsuhito politely asked.
"I pretty done everything I wanted to in my life Kats. Right now the only thing I want now is to complete the journey I started with Ryoko sixty-eight years ago, but left it unfinished due to my indecisiveness. Now that we're finally together, I'm not hesitating for another second, so I hope you all understand what I'm trying to say…" Tenchi explained as his face showed an expression of excitement, in total bliss on the prospect of marrying his long lost love.
"Now as we explained earlier, Sasami will be helping Ryoko out with the wedding arrangements. It won't be big or grand like we would've hoped, but that's not important right now…"
"But who's coming is. What's the guest list grandpa, or better yet, who do you plan on asking to marry you? Most of the other priests in Okayama know you as a feeble old man. How do you plan on explaining this?"
"Well Kats, we're only inviting a few special friends. As for the priest to marry Ryoko and me, I think that honor should fall upon my loyal and faithful grandson…"
"ME!?! You want me to marry you and Ms. Ryoko? Grandfather…I-I don't know what to say. I would be most honored in having the privilege of marrying you and Ryoko…thank you honorable Grandfather." Katsuhito couldn't help himself as he kept bowing to his 'young' elder as Tenchi began to ponder on his next problem.
"Say Ryoko, it's tradition that someone gives the bride away to the groom. Got anybody in mind?"
"Nope, not really. Everyone I know is either right here in this room or spread out in the universe so I can't say who…"
"Miss Ryoko, if you have no objections I would be honored if you allow me to escort you down the aisle for your wedding." Kamidake stood up as he calmly offered himself in their time of need. Sasami looked up and smiled at her fiancée, happily approving the choice.
"Wow, Kamidake…I don't know what to say. Are you sure you want to do this?" Ryoko meekly asked; wanting to be sure the knight was ok with this.
"Absolutely! You have in the past helped us save Jurai and the Empress, not to mention assisting Lord Tenchi in defeating Kagato. It's the least I can do for a friend and a future member of the Royal Family of Jurai…"
"Ssshhh…not so loud Kamidake! I don't need Empress Prissy to know that yet, but after hearing your kind words, I accept your offer noble knight." Ryoko replied as she came over and planted a kiss on the knight's cheek, causing him to blush momentarily.
Tenchi was happy that things were starting to take form. All that left now was the guest list and picking the best man. Of all the people he knew in his lifetime, the only close friend that was still alive from the old days was his old school mate, Amagasaki. However, 'ol Saki had been in failing health the last few years and if he saw Tenchi reverted to his late teens again, the old guy may really flip out of reality.
Poor Amagasaki! If only he could…WAIT A MINUTE, AMAGASAKI MY SON! …(Oh shit!!)
"Tenchi, what's the matter? You look like somebody put you in detention or something…" Sasami asked.
"I just forgotten that I still need to tell my son about all this. Before I get married I need to introduce him and his wife to Ryoko first. It just wouldn't be proper if I didn't tell him…"
"Grandpa…you do realize that he may not believe that you changed back to your younger self when he finally sees you. Kami only knows what he'd say when he sees Miss Ryoko. I mean he's still hasn't totally accepted Achi's decision to marry an American so imagine when he finds out you're marrying an alien from outer space?"
"Well Kats, I can only hope for the best when we go and visit him and your mother soon. However, I'm not going your father's house to ask for his approval, just to let him know what is going on and to have Ryoko meet him…"
"But Tenchi, if your son isn't too keen on foreigners marrying into the family, maybe we should postpone the wedding for another day, y'know so he could get a chance to get used to the 'old' you and me as well?" Ryoko threw the idea out to Tenchi as she expressed a dejected look of disappointment.
Ryoko always wondered what would Yosho and Nobuyuki say if Tenchi had chosen her back then. She figured Tenchi's dad wouldn't had care either way since it meant his son was finally growing up and getting some action. Yosho, on the other hand, always kept his emotions in check. He always maintained the same demeanor whether he was having breakfast, training Tenchi in Kendo or fighting off a squadron of Juraian soldiers.
Well, that's ancient history now…both of them are long dead, but there always seems to be one member of the family that has to be a stiff ass. Wonder if he not Ayeka's kid and got switched at birth? Ryoko shook her head in dismay thinking how could a kid that was Tenchi's ever gotten so closed-minded. Ryoko's thoughts went blank as Tenchi took her hand and answered her suggestion that brought her back to reality.
"Ryoko listen to me. I don't care whether or not my son approves of you or if he can't get over my appearance. I didn't wait all these years and risk death to have you back in my life so my son could decide if he likes you. He has a right to voice his concerns like any true family member would, but he not going to fill the big void in my heart like you can."
Tenchi then cupped his hands on his lover's creamy smooth face and lovingly looked into her soft golden eyes. "All that matters is that we found each other again and your love is more important to me than anything this universe can offer. Amagasaki is a grown man who has lived his life his way as I lived my life my own way and right now my life is with you. Do you understand Ryoko?"
Ryoko didn't answer Tenchi, but by the bear-crushing hug she gave him, it was clear that she understood.
"Boy, this is better than my favorite soap, 'Forbidden Love of the Stars'. I can't wait how this one pans out!" Sasami squealed out.
"Yes, but unlike your soaps dear, the consequences in this situation are much more dire than we care for." Kamidake responded, as he felt concerned about the dilemma Tenchi was being forced into.
"Well gramps, what's the plan then? How are you going to explain this to father?"
"Call your father later on Katsuhito and tell him we're coming over the day after tomorrow." Tenchi replied as he decided what course of action to be taken. "If he asks for me, just tell him that I'm exhausted from my trip and I will speak to him then. Oh, and also mention to him that I have a big surprise for him. Whether he likes it or not, it will definitely leave a big impression on him."
Ryoko sat back on the couch with Sasami and Keiko. She was happy to see how forceful Tenchi was being and how he was taking control of things. It was another new aspect of him that she rarely saw when she was here last. While she regretted not seeing how Tenchi had matured over the years, she was very happy to see how that young boy had turned out.
"So we're really going to see your son, huh Tenchi?"
"Yes Ryoko, Saki has a right to know and I want to get this over with as soon as possible. By the way Ryoko, did you have any idea on when you want to get married?"
"Well Keiko was telling that the weather has been unseasonably warm so I was thinking maybe it would be nice to have the ceremony by the lake? I always wanted a Fall wedding Tenchi, with all the different colors and the Cherry Blossoms getting swept over the forests and fields. Sasami said that if we start tomorrow, we can get everything ready in two weeks, including my wedding dress…"
"Then it's settled then. We'll tell Amagasaki the news and whether he comes or not, we'll get hitched in two weeks! Good planning Mrs. Masaki…"
MRS. MASAKI!! I can't believe he just said that. As tears began to trickle down her face, Ryoko excused herself as she phased out of the living room and reappeared in the upstairs bathroom, allowing her emotions to flow out freely.
Kamidake couldn't help but noticed Ryoko's reaction as she teleported out of room with tears of joy coming forth from her eyes. For someone who was once known as the most disruptive force in the universe, Ryoko sure has a soft side to her. I guess being with Lord Tenchi now has allowed her to act a woman and not be afraid to hide it. My Sasami was right, this pairing was meant to be and may Tsunami bless the both of them…
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TWO DAYS LATER…
Just Northwest of Tokyo was the Urawa Prefecture, a swanky suburban village that in the last thirty years had become the posh choice for residential living by the industrial elite of Japan. In this high class area visitors would be astonished to see the different styles of homes that had been built over the years. From the traditional Japanese style palaces, to the Old English Victorian Mansions to the modern American styled steel and glass frame houses. It was in the middle of Hirosoto Court that a familiar home housed one of the most famous architectural geniuses in the world.
Amagasaki Masaki (Hey, that almost rhymes…A/N) had been the braintrust and President of NAM Architectural Corp. for the last twenty years, taking over for his late grandfather Nobuyuki Masaki when the old man decided to retire and watch over his garden in Okayama. Amagasaki started working for his grandfather straight after college and rose quickly through the ranks to his present day position. It was believed that nepotism played a part of younger Masaki's ascension, but he later dispelled any notion of favoritism by spearheading the merger with another prestigious architectural firm, the Neo-Eva Tech Co. and establishing several offices in America and Europe in which he spent several years overseas.
It was upon his return to Japan the handsome, black-haired man met and married the former Miyu Tezuka, the former Miss Japan of 2032. The hazel-eyed petite beauty queen and the high rising corporate executive met at a charity function in the summer of 2033 in which they were introduced and shortly after courted for two years. Miyu's background was that she came from a prestigious family that showcased several of the finest art galleries in Tokyo and Kyoto. When seeing the young Masaki and the position he held at his grandfather's company, they happily gave their consent when Amagasaki asked for their permission for Miyu's hand in marriage. Tenchi's presided over the traditional ceremony at the shrine with a guest list that included some well known celebrities and political connections that Amagasaki and Sakuya's parents had made over the years. It was said that while everyone enjoyed the reception outside by the lake, Tenchi remained in the background after he greeted everyone during the festivities; not that he wasn't unhappy, but the huge throng of people being at his quiet country home was a bit unsettling.
After several years, Amagasaki and Miyu were blessed with the coming of their first born, Katsuhito, named after Tenchi's granddad. Three years later, little Achika was born and shortly after his promotion to Vice President of Development, Saki had his custom made house built in Urawa. The place was almost a carbon copy of Nobuyuki's, but at a much larger scale and with Miyu's fascination with Juraian culture and art, the now successful Masaki had landscapers installed an exact replica of the Royal Garden on Jurai. Right behind the house was an extended engawa for large festivities in which one could see the shrubbery maze that had been the favorite of a certain blue-haired princess long ago.
With a prosperous business, a beautiful wife, two adorable children and a home that even the most upper crust of Japanese society would envy, Amagasaki had felt like he was on top of the world. Today, he would be testing that theory to its limits…
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A forest green Nissan Pathfinder hovercraft found its way off the main road and onto the driveway that lead to the front entrance of the home Amagasaki Masaki (The rhyming was a coincidence, believe me…A/N) and when it stopped, four young people stepped out with a furry cabbit phasing out through the roof of the car.
Ryoko was amazed that this house was almost an exact duplicate of the Okayama home, but sensed that it looked out of place with the rest of the modern homes that surrounded it.
I don't know, it looks nice, but it's missing that 'human' touch. It should feel like a home to be lived and loved in, not a trophy to be displayed at. No wonder Kats said he rather stay at Tenchi's than over here. Ryoko said to herself as she and Ryo-oki walked towards the side of the house and saw the garden; the sight of which made her nod her head in approval.
"Ryoko…would you mind? I want you to be properly introduced before you start to scurry about with Ryo-oki." Tenchi called out to her as he, Kats and Keiko waited for the cyan haired girl by the front door.
"Sorry about that Tenchi, I was just being curious that's all. I see that your son really liked your father's designs huh?"
"Yep, Saki always did liked how Dad drew up his designs. It really inspired him to succeed in whatever he was of doing which is why I'm so proud of him…"
"Well, that being the case…I don't understand why he sounds like a narrow minded fool; especially if he has a dad like you and the other Masaki men for role models…"
"Well Ryoko, as much as I try to instill certain things in my son, I'm afraid that his view on people and how things should be in life was molded by his mother and her parents." Tenchi answered as he let out a sigh of dejection.
"It's like this Ryoko…Mom's parents worked in the Japanese media and had very high standards of themselves and grandmother." Kats added as he tried to explain to Ryoko of how Amagasaki's mindset was shaped in life. "Their circle of friends included people from high society, political backgrounds or old world money; anything less than that wasn't worth their time."
"Grandpa always said that if he wasn't a Shinto priest in training, my mother's parents probably wouldn't have given their consent to marry." Kats said as he finished up his analysis of his father's shortsighted behavior towards the common man. "Grandma had her high standards too, but her view of the world was much more forgiving, but I think that Grandpa had something to do with that, right gramps?"
"I like to think so Kats, but unfortunately your father spent a lot of time with his grandparents and their views sort of rubbed off on him. He's still a good man, but at his age right now, he can be abrasive when he wants to be." Tenchi replied as he motioned everyone to stand by the door as he pressed the doorbell.
A few seconds later, a small middle-aged woman opened the door and checked to see who it was. She was at first hesitant when she saw a young man with his long straight black hair tied back and a golden-eyed girl standing behind him, but as she turned her head, she finally recognized a familiar face…
"Oh, little Katsuhito and Miss Keiko! So good to see you again! Are these two young people your friends?" The gray haired housekeeper asked as she bowed to Kats and his girlfriend. Tenchi knew this woman of course, but the poor dear wouldn't recognize him unless she was around 70 years ago.
"Uh yes Bulma, They're with us. You don't recognize this young man right here?"
The woman stared into Tenchi's features, trying to see if she could place the face. "Hmmm…you do look familiar, but I don't recall seeing you before. Are you related to Amagasaki-san or his wife?"
"Well, you could say that. In fact ma'am, I can almost guarantee that you and I know each other. Maybe later Katsuhito will explain it to you." Tenchi answered as Bulma began to scratch the back of her head. Ryoko tried to restrain herself from giggling as she saw the perplexed look on the old woman's face.
"Bulma, is father here? He was told to expect us."
"Yes he is, you'll find him in the den studying some new designs for his next project. I believe your mother is there also, having her green tea…"
"Sounds good…well c'mon guys, let's get this over with." Sighed the young Kats.
As the foursome were led across the house by the housekeeper, Ryoko scanned around the foyer and the living room, seeing the pictures of faces from a time long ago. Hanging along the hallway were pictures of family outings that included Tenchi and Sakuya together, along with Amagasaki, Miyu and the grandchildren. By a corner of the door that was just outside the den, there was a small table that had a family picture that included both Ayeka and Sasami along with Washu. There was a small inscription that indicated that the photo was taken about five years ago. Ryoko silently sighed to herself, wondering why she didn't give herself the chance to experience this kind of life with Tenchi those many years.
So many things has happened and I wasn't around to a part of it. Maybe it was for the best since I would've had to look at Ayeka, but I swear that I ain't gonna cheat myself or Tenchi to whatever happiness comes our way. I want to have children of my own; I want to have a little one calling me 'mommy' and I think it'll be cool for someone to call me grandma…except for Katsuhito of course!
The rapid tapping on the door interrupted Ryoko's thoughts as Bulma announced Katsuhito's arrival. Everyone tensed up when a low raspy voice responded…
"Come in Katsuhito! Where is father? I thought he was going to accompany you on the trip?" Asked the elder Masaki as he got up from his leather chair and welcome his son and his guests. The years of success and high living had taken on toll on Amagasaki as the once handsome youngster had devolved into a middle aged balding senior with the 'fat' of his success so evident by his expansive waistline.
Miyu however, had aged gracefully over the years. Still slender and standing as if she was still a beauty queen, the wife of Saki kindly walked over to greet her son and girlfriend with a peck on the cheek. Tenchi and Ryoko stood back, waiting to see what would happen next.
"Katushito, you didn't tell me you were bringing visitors over my son, but where is your grandfather? Is he still tired from his trip?"
Kats started to stutter as he began to explain about Tenchi, "Uh…well father, I don't really know how to explain this to you so I'll just ask that you'd greet this young man before you and take a good hard look at him…"
"You're not making sense son, what does this boy have to do with my father? Is he another apprentice to the shrine? I really don't see…"
"Father, please indulge me. Just take a good look at him…"
Amagasaki mumbled something under his breath as he went over to Tenchi. As he began to study his face, the young priest decided not to remain silent any longer.
"Amagasaki my son, you should really go and get your glasses changed, squinting like that will only wrinkle your face some more…"
"Excuse me young man, but aren't you being a bit rude? I will not tolerate such disrespect in my home even if you are a friend of Kats…"
"And I would suggest that you take a closer look 'Ol Great Saki' since I have every right to say that to you…"
"Ol Great Saki? Only my father calls me that and he's…" Amagasaki finally quieted down long enough to look at the young man in front and realized that the face does eerily familiar. Instantly his face flashed with shock and dismay with the familiar image of his father popped into his head.
"No…it can't be! That's impossible! Who are you?!?"
"I'm exactly who you think I am my son, but just in case why don't you go over to your work desk and pull out that old high school yearbook photo book that has all the Masaki men shown?"
Saki raced over to his desk, nearly knocking Miyu on the floor. The poor woman was already reeling from the thought of who this young boy could be, but nothing on Earth could make an old man that young again…could it?
As Saki pulled out the drawer and rummaged through some old papers and drawings, he finally reached his old high school yearbook and went into the section that had all the graduating seniors who had their parents or other family members that were the school's alumni listed along as well. It was thought that a family tree shown would be an interesting twist for that particular year and as he frantically searched through the pages, he saw the image that flashed through his mind seconds ago.
Amagasaki then turned around and once more looked into the young face that was standing before him. He saw the photo once more and realized that the boy in the picture was indeed Tenchi Masaki, his father. The same face that was now smiling back at him, his youth restored once more.
"F-F-FATHER? Is that you, but how? It's impossible! How…how could you be young again?" Amagasaki stammered, as his mouth was wide open. He wanted to question his father some more, but the words weren't coming out. A moment later, a loud thud was heard. It appeared that Miyu couldn't believe what she saw either and she passed out from the shock. It was going to be an evening that no one would forget.
END CHAPTER THREE
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I have to remember to use a word count or something since I got a little carried away and typed more in than I intended. This was supposed to be one chapter only, but I felt that I wouldn't be getting the characters across if I kept it short, especially by the way I write.
If you happen to notice, I keep using Kats and Saki in substitute for Katushito and Amagasaki. You know in this country and especially in New York, we like to shorten things and if I plan on continuing to type in these characters, I'm using my version of shorthand. Does anybody know if the Japanese use nicknames as well?
Quick Quiz: What's the full name of Saki's company?
Well anyway guys, your reviews are greatly appreciated and I'm try to post the next chapter ASAP. (Whom am I kidding?)
Next Chapter: "Meeting the In-Laws" (The Conclusion)
As always, C&C are welcome. If you want a more elaborate explanation, you can email me at a.falc@verizon.net
Later, Alighthawk
