Chapter 15
-Foreshadow of Evil-
The room was dim, bordering on dusk, hiding the various machines and beds. His footsteps were light as he moved quietly past the nurses and knights. They didn't pay him much attention, just enough to stay out of his way, which was fine with him.
He paused just a few feet from his target and then taking a breath continued towards the three people in front of him. He lifted a hand to tell the woman with cyan colored haired that was beginning to standing not to, she settled back into her chair biting her bottom lip. He turned his attention to the other woman who was standing next to the medical bed.
The blonde woman's hair looked disheveled, her face was streaked with tears. She turned her head at his approaching footsteps and gave a small weak smile. He glanced at the man in the bed and quickly looked away, by far too many tubes and bandages for his liking. The woman squeezed the hand she was holding and looked down at him.
There was a deep silence in the room, none of them speaking or making a noise. The silence seemed to grow slowly into a living being with each passing minute. The young dark haired man shifted feet slowly and spoke, having grown uncomfortable in the silence. "So, how is he doing?"
"He's stable, but Laurynas said that he will be unconscious for a while." The cyan haired woman answered as he nodded, looking over at her and then the other two. He let out a small sigh and touched the blonde's arm lightly.
"We'll be back soon, but if you need us we'll be in the house." he spoke softly, worried, but the woman barely acknowledged him. He let his arm fall back and turned to the other woman who was already standing. Her face was a mask, much as when he had first known her, but he could read her eyes now, and it was there that he could tell she was concerned.
He walked over and carefully taking her hand planted a kiss on her cheek "Come on." He cast one look back at the other couple and then looked at the woman holding his hand and squeezing it led her out of the medical bay.
When they were gone the blonde leaned down over his bed and brushed his hair out of the way, talking to him in a whisper, "Don't go away...I don't think I can stand it." she shivered some then continued, "I can't remember everything...b-but I can remember that I've been through something similar...so you can't go away. You understand me?"
She held his hand tighter and pulled a chair up to sit next to the bed. She was not going to let his hand go even as she almost began crying yet again, "And I'm not going to let you go. I'm keeping you here with me." And holding his hand tight the blonde Galaxy Police officer settled in to watch over him till he was better.
***
The knight strode down the hallway carrying a small box under one arm; his look and mannerisms told all the knights to get out of his way. He was walking with purpose and determination so whoever had planted this bomb had not counted on him.
He entered his lord's chamber, his steps sure and confident. However that did not last as he was confronted with an angry looking Chijiro. The young lord's hair looked very hurriedly combed and he looked rather angry.
""Major Bakio!"" The young lord nearly shouted before continuing, ""What were you thinking when you entered the queen's private chambers?""
Bakio felt small under his lord's glare but he couldn't let it affect him right now, ""My lord, we have something more pressing to deal with."" He said while drawing attention to the device he was holding.
Chijiro crossed his arms, his eyes narrowing some, ""What is it?"" he asked in a curt tone.
""A bomb."" he stated, pausing to let it sink in and then continued, "It was in the Atmospheric system, and Geikan was trapped with it. He cut off its power at the risk of his own life.""
The lord, serious as ever reached out taking the box. He held it carefully and walked over putting it on a table nearby and sat down. He stared at it for a while before speaking to the knight who was watching and waiting expectantly.
""Does anyone else know?""
The knight shook his head, ""Only I, you and Geikan know of the situation.""
""I'm assuming you took him to the medical bay. I want you to return and when he recovers tell him he is not to breath a word about this."" Chijiro looked up, his face serious and hard, all thoughts about the knight being in the queen's chamber driven from his mind.
Planting hand to heart Bakio bowed and swiftly swept out of the room to do as his lord had commanded him. He would contact Lord Chijiro's father while he waited for the young apprentice knight to recover.
***
Tenchi sat heavily on his bed, legs crossed, head propped back against the wall. He had his eyes closed, but he was awake and thinking. Ryoko was seated in front of him, for once not floating in the air, she sighed lightly.
"You can't blame yourself Tenchi."
The prince didn't respond, he just stayed calm, keeping his breathing controlled. She crossed her arms and glared at him, "Don't you dare ignore me."
He responded to that, though he still didn't open his eyes. "I could never ignore you my Ryoko." he lifted his head and looked at her, "Have you ever just closed your eyes and listened to the air?" He seemed very serene and calm.
Ryoko shook her head no, wondering if he was alright. "Tenchi, I know I'm not Washu brilliant, but I think even Mihoshi knows that air doesn't make any noise."
He gave her a smile, "Try it. For me." He reached out taking her hands and held them, "Close your eyes and relax your body." She did as he asked and he continued not letting go of her hands, "Now, slow your heart and listen to the air around you."
She did as he told her, though she still couldn't hear whatever it was that the air was making. She didn't however want to tell that to Tenchi so instead she smiled and lied, "I can hear it."
Tenchi didn't get excited, but merely continued to talk in his low voice, "What is it saying?"
She paused; trying to come up with something then responded, "It's telling me that everything's going to be fine."
Tenchi squeezed her hands before speaking, "Thank you, even if you're lying." He leaned forward kissing her cheek lightly, "But you're right, everything will be fine."
She opened her eyes looking at him curiously, "How could you tell?"
He gave a small smile, "Well, when you're lying, your right ear twitches just a tad." He squeezed her hands lightly, "And the air is humming, not really talking."
Ryoko arched an eyebrow that was rather scary knowing that Tenchi could read her like that, but it comforted her as well.
Tenchi let out a small breath, "I spoke with grandfather, we argued. I don't know why we argue, but we do. I learned something about myself though." he looked at her, the calmness that seemed to be in control of him was very evident in his brown eyes.
"What?"
"That I haven't given up on life, that I haven't become a cold uncaring stone without emotions. In a fight, that's a good way to be because it makes you unreadable, but grandfather took it too far." he gave her a smile. "I am not my grandfather, I'm just Masaki Tenchi. Nothing more, nothing less."
Ryoko nodded slowly and leaned forward kissing him lightly on the forehead. "The man I love."
Tenchi smiled a little wider, "Shall I give you my patented Tenchi massage?"
Ryoko smiled brightly shifting into a towel, then scooted back and laid down on her stomach, "Yea please, it's been way too long."
Tenchi nodded, climbing onto his knees and wiggling his fingers as he started the slow kneading of her shoulders, neck and skin to relax the muscles and remove the tension from her.
***
It was a beautiful day, which was not a lost fact upon those gathered in the Holy Council Cathedral; it was a massive building, ancient and holy. Its spires and domes raised upwards, all carved from massive marble and ancient wood.
Soon of course the inner peace and quiet of the building was disrupted by the sudden in flood of knights and court messengers. It caused havoc and created a certain amount of panic, but this day would be remembered for as long as there were Juraians.
For the second in time in history, The Emperor of Jurai and his Queen was storming into the Cathedral to face the Holy Council.
Azusa's face booked no doubt that this would be a heated and very serious meeting, he was dressed in his best robes and wearing his thin circlet crown. He indeed looked like the massive warrior emperor that he was.
He walked slowly and easily, his power almost tangible. A few paces behind him walked his Queen Funaho, she too was dressed in her best robes and wearing her own small crown, her eyes hard. They walked with purpose, as did their knights.
Nobody dared get in their way, nor could they since the knights they had brought looked as if they were ready for war. They were even armed, something that was not suppose to happen in the cathedral. The procession came to a halt before the massive wooden doors of the Council's inner meeting room.
The emperor moved swiftly with his queen on his heels. He would not waste time, he had very pressing matters. His knights stepped to the side, knowing their emperor. He grabbed both handles of the massive door and pulled, swinging them open.
He entered slowly; the entrance chamber was round and massive. The knights filled in around him until they once more positioned themselves all around the room. A man of average height and build greeted the emperor though he was dressed in a very lordly way.
"Greetings Emperor Azusa, Queen Funaho. This is most unexpected."
Azusa waved off the greeting, "I am here to see the council."
"Yes of course, but you know that..." The man began only to be cut off by the emperor once more.
"I do not have time for this. The Royal Family has been attacked for the last time. Now move aside."
The man tried to argue but quelled under the emperor's withering gaze and stepped aside. The knights opened the door to the inner sanctum and bowed as the emperor and the queen started forward, entering the dark room that held the Holy Council.
***
"You should go see Mihoshi."
The teal haired woman lifted her head at the sound of the voice and stared blankly at the red headed scientist before her. She blinked slowly and then shook her head. "No."
Kiyone couldn't go see her friend, Mihoshi was grieving and she had yelled at her. Shouted actually about how Ukyo was turning her into even more of an airhead. She didn't dare go see Mihoshi; she knew the woman wouldn't forget that.
The red haired woman in front of her gave Kiyone a cool gaze then sighed shaking her head so that her tresses danced. "Is this because you yelled at her?"
The teal haired officer looked at the other woman in disbelief, "No, I just don't want to go." It was a lame excuse but it was all she could offer.
However, Washu seemed to grow angry at this, "Fine! But I'm not staying here another hour. I have better things to do with my time than try to help you with your guilt." The seemingly adult scientist stood up and glared at her, "One being going to see how Mihoshi is doing, the second is going to confer with Taliesin."
She picked up her red tea mug, carrying it to the sink, not saying another word. Kiyone watched the woman, angry that she would dare say something like that. She didn't have the right, being that they barely knew each other.
The other woman ignored the teal haired galaxy police officer as she left the kitchen, seemingly unconcerned with her. Kiyone picked her blue tea up to take a sip and then set it back down without taking one.
There was a moment of silence and then she stood up, pacing the kitchen knowing that she would be left alone. She crossed her arms angrily, fuming about everything from Washu to Mihoshi and Ukyo, the entire time denying her guilt that she had so freely admitted to herself earlier.
However her private activity was cut short when the door to the kitchen opened to reveal Laurynas. He was looking haggard, his clothes stained with dark red splotches. He looked at her, giving a ghost of a smile. "Hello."
Kiyone blinked caught off guard, unsure of what he was doing here. She spent a minute staring at him and then realized she hadn't said anything back and she pitifully squeaked out a greeting. He seemed non-pulsed by her delay; he just sort of stood there smiling.
Kiyone could feel herself starting to blush from his attention; she shifted her stance looking away, "Can I help you with something?"
He blinked and seemed to blush himself realizing he was staring, "Oh yes, I was told that there was a bath near here. The facilities on board the ship are...indisposed, an initiation of some sort I believe...anyway, I was told that I might be able to use the bath."
Kiyone graced him with a tentative smile, "Well, I was fixing to go there myself...so I'll take you." She saw his odd look and giggled, "Don't worry; there's a separate space for men. I understand Ryoko made it special for Tenchi."
The young doctor nodded and watched as the young woman retrieved her tea putting it in the sink. As they started out of the kitchen, Kiyone was feeling guiltier for flirting with him for various reasons.
***
Washu listened to her shoes click clack on the floor as she approached the medical bay. Mihoshi may have not been her favorite member of the family, but that didn't mean she didn't care; she just couldn't stand her.
She entered the room quietly and paused, the blonde was resting her head on the bed, holding his hand. Even from the doorway the red haired scientist could tell she'd been crying, Washu sighed to herself and flicked her eyes up to the man and shook her head.
"Amazing, simply amazing." she muttered to herself, she couldn't figure out how this man, who was barely even a member of the family, could get such devotion and love from the blonde. Washu felt a stab in her heart as she remembered her husband.
Between Mihoshi and Ukyo and Ryoko with Tenchi, Washu was feeling it on a constant basis. It was growing to be a nuisance, but she kept her feelings to herself, refusing to let others know how she felt. After twenty thousand years that was the only way she could operate, it kept her from getting hurt or from causing problems.
She turned from the scene before her and headed back down the hallway towards Taliesin's office. She forced the pain she was feeling down and away, least she break her facade of being the cool calculating scientist.
With Ryoko and Tenchi it was one thing, but with strangers it wasn't. She walked for several more minutes, then took several lifts up, then crossed over twice went up once more and started down the clean and well lit corridor heading for the doctor's office.
She found it and carefully knocked, their was a noise from the other side and then the door slide open to reveal the young, brilliant, doctor seated at his desk. He smiled at her and stood, "Professor Washu, please do come in and have a seat."
Washu gave him an indulgent smile, letting him slide for calling her that and entered; the doorway making its hissing noise as it closed behind her.
***
Aekea strode down the hallway to her future husband's room, her face set. She didn't knock, didn't announce her presence, she just commanded the door to open, aided by her Jurai power of course. She came barging into the room to find the silver haired lord pacing in his living room.
He paused looking over at her, he didn't smile, which was a first, but he did seem to be relieved to see her. She however didn't return the look, she held herself regal as she spoke, ""Where is Bakio?""
He tilted his head slightly, ""In the medical bay."" She blinked her lavender eyes. Surprised, she began to say something when he continued, ""There was an incident with a Knight adept. I have spoken with him about his actions before he left so do not worry.""
""What exactly did you say?"" she asked moving towards him slowly. The young lord didn't respond immediately, seemingly having something very pressing on his mind. She laid her hand gently on his shoulder pulling his attention back to her. ""What is the matter?""
""It is nothing really,"" he told her giving the ghost of a smile then continued, "I told him that it was inexcusable entering your mother's chambers. He apologized profusely, he thought to put a recorder in there in case of something happening to her."
Aekea nodded slowly looking at him, a look of questioning trust in her eyes. She looked around his room, her anger moments before seemingly gone. ""This is a marvelous room. I have not been a board this ship in over seven hundred years.""
The silver haired lord nodded, smiling to himself, ""It is indeed a grand ship. Have you been to the ship's garden? It is quite relaxing really.""
Aekea nodded slightly. ""I haven't been there for such a long time. Perhaps I should take mother there, this trip has not been easy on her."" She cast a questioning look at him, receiving a nod.
""I was thinking that, I have not seen her and we will be arriving on Earth in a very short time." His voice was soft as he cupped her cheek, without a word he leaned down and kissed her forehead. ""Go, be with your mother. Ease her loneliness, I fear seeing Sasami will be too much for her to bear.""
Aekea nodded, her face still unchanged. Her eyes shone with disappointment that he merely kissed her forehead. She turned slowly and glided out of the room, her robes barely rustling. Chijiro watched her and then sighed as he walked over to pick up the book he had been reading and mused upon things for a moment.
Tucking it under his arm he turned and approached the bar a drink and then back to studying. He had far too many things to think about.
***
""Emperor Azusa, you cannot just barge into the Holy Council's inner sanctum."" Said a rather commanding voice from their seat in the council's chamber.
The chamber itself was made dark stones and dimly lit, but by what source one couldn't tell. On either wall rose a few rows of empty wooden benches, but in the center and straight ahead, in the highest benches of all were a group of shadow figures. They all wore finely crafted robes of white and off white. Their voices had been low until the doors had been busted open and the emperor came barging in.
""I am the Emperor of Jurai. It is my right to barge into this sanctum."" Azusa rejoined, unfazed by the group. He continued to stride towards the bench while his queen and guards hung back near the door.
""You know the laws, only if there is an emergency or if the Royal Family is in danger."" came the voice, it was rather low but still it tried to command.
He paused in the exact center of the room; glaring up at them. ""The Royal Family has been attacked once more."" He listened to the murmurs that drew and he continued, ""The First Crowned Prince of Jurai's wife-to-be has been attacked, this is a direct attack on the Royal Family.""
The speaker rose from his seat spreading his arms wide. ""Emperor Azusa, Queen Funaho, this is not a matter to concern the council with. You have been seeing to these attacks yourself. Why bring it to us now?""
""Elder Meikan, Elders of the Council, I bring this to you now because the Royal Family believes some of you are involved in the conspiracy to destroy the Royal Family."" Azusa said in a low even voice, but his Jurai power turned the air thick and oppressive.
The council members looked at each other in disbelief and fear, the law was clear. If the emperor had proof of his statement then he could suspend the council's power; just as the council could his if he was over stepping his bounds.
First Elder Meikan lowered his hands, a small frown on his face. He spoke quietly into the room. ""What proof do you offer?""
There was a moment of silence; no one dared breathe in fear of something going wrong. Azusa's face looked hard as he stared at the elder, he slung his arm around and the cape he wore fanned out as he reveled his queen.
Regally she approached the council and before her she held a small box. She inclined her head slightly while her husband stepped back out of sight. The council watched as she knelt down and activated the device after several minutes of fiddling with it.
There was a hum and then suddenly the air over it shimmered into view showing a holographic recording of the Council member Tralu greeting Washu and the family, then of the Second Elder's conversation with Tenchi. Then finally his hasty escape from the planet.
When it faded, the queen picked up the device and turning retreated from before the council. Azusa's voice filled the chamber as he stepped forward again. "That was Tralu, Second Elder of this Holy Council. Those recordings came from the medical ship that he took to the royal resort planet, which in itself is a punishable act. The law is clear that only the Royal Family or those given permission my set foot there. Neither I or my wives gave such permission.""
The council shifted in their seats as nervousness began to pervade through the air. However Meikan raised his hands calling for silence and spoke his voice staying calm. ""That is true, but that does not show evidence of the council being involved in the attempted murder of the Prince's fiancée.""
Several members nodded in agreement, but Azusa seemed unfazed, ""The First Crowned Prince of Jurai has stated that Elder Tralu was involved, that he plotted the attack."" He narrowed his eyes as the First Elder opened his mouth to say something, "I would be careful with my words Elder, to accuse the Prince of lying is to accuse the Royal Family, which is to accuse ME."" Azusa stated in a very threatening sounding voice.
The council member stared at the powerful warrior in silence and then slowly took his seat. ""Elder Tralu was dismissed from this council over two weeks ago. We are sorry that he attempted to kill a member of the Royal Family, but that hardly means that the entire council is involved.""
Azusa gave him an indulgent smile; ""You are a very wise man Elder Meikan, that is why you'll see the wisdom in this. I am asking that you remove all new and junior members of the Holy Council from position."" He narrowed his eyes, ""Should you refuse I will be greatly bothered and when I am bothered all of Jurai is bothered. But if you do as I ask and things continue then I shall be back.""
The two stared at each other in complete silence, a silent power play commencing. Then suddenly the Emperor turned starting towards the doors, they heaved opened and his queen preceded him out of the room. The emperor left, the doors closing behind him with a bang, cutting off the sudden outburst of discussion among the council members.
***
Aekea stared rather melancholy at the large painting of a silver tree with gold leaves. How many times on long trips had she stared up at this same picture and felt comfort.
The colors had seemed so vibrant back then, so alive, but now, they seemed a dull imitation. It was not so bad really, merely one of her moments of depression. They came and went, she was still upset over loosing Tenchi, but it was becoming a smaller sense of loss.
She sighed and stood up, moving about the room, not letting herself stay like this, self-pity did not serve a purpose. She straightened up a small display of ancient family figurines and turned, walking out the door.
She strode down the empty hallway, feeling oddly tranquil. It was a first, but she enjoyed it. She followed the gentle curving of the hallway and approached her mother's room.
She lifted her hand and announced her presence. The door slid open without a word from her mother, she entered looking about the darkened room. She passed through the living room and entered the bedroom.
She saw the shadowy form of her mother stretched out on the bed. Her mother didn't move or react to her daughter's presence, but Aekea sat down next to her on the bed.
The purple haired princess looked down at her mother and spoke in her child voice, ""Mommy, would you like to take a walk in the ship's garden?""
Her mother didn't react as Aekea tucked the blankets in around her then stood, ""I'll bring you dinner soon, were almost to Earth, almost to Sasami.""
Her mother nodded slightly looking over at Aekea. ""How long?""
""Maybe another two or three standard hours."" Aekea told her softly.
Misaki nodded sitting up slowly. ""I want to go for that walk now, I haven't been much of a mother...Denying my precious baby that..." she said breaking down into sobs.
Aekea quickly sat on her bed hugging her tightly. ""Sssh mommy, you're a great mother. You've just been distracted." Her mother embraced her in a bone-crushing hug, sobbing still.
Finally Misaki got control over her emotions and sighing held her daughter at arm's length. ""My darling little Aekea, my precious little Aekea! Come on, we'll go for that stroll through the ship's garden and we'll have a picnic..."
Aekea couldn't help but smile as her mother began to talk quickly making picnic plans.
***
""My liege, someone is...""
Whatever Bakio was about to say, he wasn't allowed to. The older man on the screen, who greatly resembled Chijiro, slashed his hand through the air motioning for the knight to stop.
""How is my son?" His voice was forceful, but slightly distorted.
""He is find Lord Amaki. But we must talk about..."" Bakio began, and then fell silent at the dark glare he got from the older Juraian lord. Sighing, the knight took a breath then glanced around the dark communications room.
""I fully expect you to do what is necessary. That is why I put you with my son."" the Juraian lord said a small look of displeasure on his face. ""You are my oldest knight, you know what must be done. What others are doing is not important.""
Baiko bowed his head, hand going to his chest, ""Of course. I am sorry, it was merely my worry about your son that drove me."" He returned to his upright position. ""It will not happen again, forgive me.""
Lord Amaki nodded curtly, not bothering to speak anymore about it. ""Things here are growing tumultuous. Emperor Azusa stormed into the Council's chambers." He gave a small smile, ""As I understand it, he put the fear of Tsunami into them. No one is sure about what he said, but they are in an emergency meeting right now.""
Bakio nodded slowly frowning, ""Why would Azusa do something of such controversy?""
""The rumor is that it involves The Royal Resort planet."" came the immediate response. The silver haired Juraian noble gave a small look of satisfaction, "I hope that he disbanded them, it would be a good idea. Even if they don't, find out what happened on the Royal Resort planet to prompt this and report back to me.""
Bakio opened his mouth to say something when the screen began to scramble and distort, the subspace field the ship was moving through was beginning to increase in power output.
Quickly the knight turned off the view screen, ending the call and exited, heading for Lord Chijiro's room. He was frowning as he strode down the hallway, the bomb and the matters happening on Jurai did not set well with him.
He shook his head entering a lift, 'Tsunami help us' he thought to himself 'for no one else will.' he sighed and gave the deck numbers, the lift immediately came to life rocketing him upwards.
***
Meikan paced back and forth, listening to the rest of the holy council argue in the next room. He had entered his private chambers, locking the door as he did, but still the noise from outside pierced his room.
With a frustrated growl he swept items off a shelf, one being a silver replica of Tsunami the first space tree. He started forward to retrieve it when he found it already clutched in the hands of familiarly dark figure.
""Be careful Elder Meikan, this is not something that you should destroy.""
The elder strode forward, angrier than ever and snatched the replica from the shadow man's hand. ""You shouldn't be here, Emperor Azusa-""
""Has asked that you remove the new and junior members of the council. Yes I know."" The mysterious man said folding his hands in front of him in a courtly manner.
Meikan set the Tsunami statue back onto the self rather hard talking angrily, ""Exactly! Which is why the last thing I need is for you to be hiding in my private office.""
The man shrugged only slightly, not responding. The Elder threw his arms wide turning to face the man, "Do you realize how much this could jeopardize? I have to remove the only people I have to place the blame.""
""Ahh, Elder you know much but understand little."" replied the man in amusement. ""You do not have to give in. This dispute is over the Prince Tenchi's future wife and the attempt on her life.""
The elder growled, ""I already knew that! But they have evidence, I must bow to the emperor on this or lose everything we've struggled for.""
The man raised and hand and wagged a finger. ""No, all is according to plan. Do not give in to the emperor's request, instead tell him that the council wishes for the prince and his intended to stand before the Holy Council and make their accusations. Tell him that you need more than holographic recordings.""
""Are you mad? Their arrival would call unneeded attention to what we are doing."" he stormed across the room away from the man. ""It would look like we are calling them liars or that we have something to hide. Azusa would dissolve the council, it's within his power now.""
A sudden hissing energy bolt shot across the room incinerating a large bookcase and leaving a smoking scorch mark on the wall. ""You are beginning to try my patience.""
The Elder looked at the dark man terrified, his eyes wide, ""I am sorry. Things are just becoming too difficult.""
The shadow man waved off the elder's statement ""Things are always difficult, but be of good cheer Tsunami priest, for you forget the bomb aboard the Royal ship.""
The elder nodded, then wiped at his forehead. ""Of course and without them the emperor would have no heir, thus he could not maintain the throne-""
""Which would mean that our benefactor could take the throne and you would become the only elder, the others would be blamed for the Royal Family's death."" The man finished for him disinterested. ""I know the plan and I have no interest in hearing about it again.""
The elder nodded respectfully, ""I know, so shall I go and tell the council members our course of action?"" He waited for a response but quickly realized that he was now alone.
Sighing he turned and exited his room, preparing himself for what lay ahead. He would just have to put his trust and faith in Tsunami.
***
Kiyone sighed standing nervously in the doorway staring at her partner and Ukyo. The blonde looked as if she had been crying non-stop before she had fallen asleep, the knight simply looked as if he was at death's door. The teal haired woman felt a knot in her stomach; she wanted to run away.
But her resolve didn't let her; instead she stepped into the room quietly approaching the medical bed. She paused next to Mihoshi and with an almost shaking hand she brushed the blonde's hair off her forehead and planted a kiss on the corner of her mouth.
She stood upright and stared at the wounded knight shaking her head; how could he make her so jealous and happy at the same time? He had blown in, taken Mihoshi's heart and made it impossible for Kiyone to talk with her partner about how she felt.
Sighing she watched them and then spoke softly to her sleeping blonde partner, "I'm sorry I yelled at you, but it just hurts, but I love you and I want you to be happy." Kiyone allowed a small smile "I think Laurynas is sweet, I could be happy with him I'm sure."
The teal haired woman turned her attention to the unconscious knight and sighed "And you, you better get better and take care of Mihoshi." That was all she had to say, turning she slowly walked out of the room, not noticing the knight's eyes fluttering open, or the squeeze he gave the blonde who was holding his hand.
***
The sun had finally set two hours ago, bathing the countryside in darkness. The only outside light was that of the silver stars and quicksilver moon. Inside the house the few occupants went about their normal routines.
It was almost idealistic, especially after all that had happened that day and the several days that had preceded it. It was in a particular dark room however that showed that this was not the case.
"Tenchi, are you alright?" Ryoko asked in a low voice in the dark bedroom. They were lying under the blanket of their bed, both quite naked. Neither had the energy to get out of bed and get dressed after their 'strenuous' activity.
Tenchi nodded, turning his head to look at her in the darkness of the room "I'm fine ai, just that for a minute I felt a little guilty."
Ryoko nodded in agreement and rolled over to stare at Tenchi. They didn't say anything, a sort of silent conversation taking place, the sort that happened between a couple that was truly comfortable with each other.
Finally Tenchi spoke again quietly, "I love you."
Ryoko gave a small smile, "I know. I love you too. And don't feel guilty; you almost wore me out. You should be proud." She said the last part teasingly. She couldn't see him but she was sure he was blushing; he didn't do that much anymore.
"Well you did wear me out. Anyway, that's not why I felt guilty. I mean I'm happy, I shouldn't be happy," he said sighing as he rolled over to face her.
Ryoko shrugged slightly, "Hey, you needed to remember what you had. You were getting way too serious, besides everyone should be happy. Nobody's dead and last I checked that was a good thing." She suddenly burst out into laughter as Tenchi's finger found the only spot she was ticklish at and attacked.
She squirmed and slapped at his hand playfully then let out a breath when it stopped tickling her and began to rub her hip and side. She gave a sort of soft purr and kissed him. "Now now, don't go starting something you wouldn't finish, besides you need to go and cook."
Tenchi smiled and kissed her quickly, "I'm up for the challenge. But you're right, besides there's always later tonight." with that he rose and proceeded to put on his clothes he had discarded earlier. Ryoko did much the same thing, only she faded into a copy of the clothes she had been wearing, the originals were no longer wearable.
Joining hands, they both left the dark bedroom and walked down the hallway, Tenchi had learned something he would never forget: That even amidst a war or craziness, or even assassinations there was always happiness.
***
Washu sighed to herself as she watched the field shimmering around the aqua haired princess' bed. It was quiet, empty and without the constant presence of Ukyo, all this room had was an unconscious and possibly comatose eight year old.
Washu, shaking it off proceeded to check the readouts and comparing them to what Taliesin had shared with her. It was unnoticeable unless you paid extra careful attention, but the readouts did show that the girl seemed to be coming around.
But it was erratic and unlike the doctor the red haired scientist didn't think it had anything to do with what he had been doing. This was something involving Sasami and Tsunami.
With a small disapproving noise she double checked the readouts and pulled up her holographic computer and tied it into the medical readouts, she would be keeping a closer eye on the situation.
However an urgent beeping interrupted her careful study. Cursing, she swung around and called up a separate screen. It was blank for a moment and then was filled with an all too familiar face of Azusa and he was scowling darkly.
"Washu, where is that Boy?!" He demanded rather harshly.
The red haired scientist frowned slightly, "Not even a hello? Where are your manners? Honestly, as the ruler of Jurai, you should be setting an example."
Her witty remark did not sooth him at all, "This is not the time! Get me that boy this minute and Ryo-that woman!" He grounded out that last word, but Washu knew whom he meant.
"Tell me what is wrong and then maybe I will." She responded, folding her arms and looking twice as serious as ever.
Azusa looked as if he was about to say something rather unwholesome, but Funaho who was laying a comforting hand on his shoulder cut him off. She spoke for her husband, her tone serious but not harsh at all.
"It is a matter of urgency. The Holy Council has demanded that Tenchi and your daughter Ryoko come before them to present their testimony."
Washu nodded slowly talking, "I see. So they have to go to Jurai?"
Funaho nodded and Washu's emerald eyes began to calculate what she'd been told. "Ryoko is outside giving Ryo-ohki some exercise and Tenchi's visiting Ukyo and Mihoshi in the medical ship."
"We'll wait until you can get them, we have much to discuss with them and not a lot of time." Funaho said then the screen went to standby, awaiting the red haired scientist to gather the two people in question.
Washu turned reaching for the door and then paused as another beep caught her attention, she spun a third screen appearing to show the approach of a massive ship. Washu froze, checking the readouts then mentally cursed and turned, storming out of the room shouting for Kiyone.
The teal haired officer appeared from the living room curious with Laurynas right behind her. Before she could answer Washu stormed past talking, "Aekea's ship has just arrived, the Holy Council wants Tenchi and Ryoko to go to Jurai, and Sasami is coming out of her coma."
Kiyone blinked and then ran after the red haired scientist, Ryoko was already materializing in the front yard with her hands on her hips "You called 'mom'?"
Washu waved her daughter off and turned, scanning the sky to see the tell-tell signs of a massive ship descending. Washu started towards it, the impromptu party following, Ryoko was grumbling though. Several knights fell into step around them giving an escort.
Washu couldn't help but curse the timing.
***
Chijiro walked down the hallway slowly, his robes perfectly arranged and his silver hair pulled back into a loose ponytail. His face was open and friendly even though he was mentally agitated.
""My lord.""
He paused and turned his attention to the owner of the voice. He felt a vague smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. ""Bakio, shouldn't you be with Geikan?""
The knight shook his head, ""I was, but he didn't make it. He was doing well and then he just, died."" There was an air about the knight that suggested he was not completely himself.
Chijiro reached out putting his hand on his friend's shoulder, talking softly, ""I am sorry. When we return to Jurai I will inform his father, you will have a hard enough time with your sister.""
The knight bowed his head with his hand coming to his chest ""Yes Lord Chijiro, thank you.""
The young lord patted the knight's shoulder ""And tell Asile that he earned full Knighthood."" The knight lifted his head suddenly to stare at his lord, but didn't say a word.
There was a moment of silence and the silver haired lord let his hand fall away from his shoulder. ""We're approaching Earth, I should go join Aekea and her mother.""
The Knight preformed his bow once more and Chijiro, taking one last look at Bakio, turned and continued down the hallway. The news of Geikan's death was a sad note, it didn't bode well. Shaking that off he passed through the doors to the massive bridge.
He strode down the bridge, the various knights and regular soldiers piloting the ship not paying any real attention, which was fine with him. He came to a stop beside Aekea next to a large transparent screen with a blue and green planet in its center.
""So that is the Earth?"" Chijiro asked turning to look at the purple haired princess. She kept her violet eyes locked on the blue and green planet nodding slightly.
He didn't hold it against her, instead he turned his attention to her mother who was holding her hands to her chest, tears rolling down her cheeks. He wondered if that look of urgency in her eyes was just his imagination.
Chijiro turned his attention back the planet considering the small world. It looked like a miniature Jurai with the blue oceans and green landmasses. He shook his head such similarities were rather startling.
The knights began talking loudly as they guided the ship through the atmosphere. Chijiro felt the ship slow as they passed through the upper atmosphere.
As the screen changed to show distinct landmasses of trees and bodies of water, he felt a delicate hand entwine with his. He didn't turn, knowing it was Aekea. He gave it a squeeze as he continued to watch the screen.
""The Masaki Shrine."" Aekea said softly as the massive ship slowed even more gliding over top of the familiar green mountain of that held the Shinto shrine.
He watched as the mountain gave way to small house next to a lake, this area alone reminded him of the Jurai palace from back when it first was unified from the pirate guilds.
No landing procedures took place, which was no surprise, after all the sheer size of the ship was beyond what the planet could handle. Finally the ship came to a halt hidden amidst the clouds.
Aekea let out a sigh and closed her eyes, preparing herself for what she would be facing, her family. But mostly Tenchi and Ryoko. She let out her a slow breath while turning towards Chijiro.
""Ryoko's going to insult me, I'm telling you this so that you don't attack her."" She had barely said it when her mother began to talk.
""Hurry, my daughter's down there and she needs me."" She almost began babbling, causing Aekea to go comfort her, Chijiro turned towards the knight and nodding gave permission for the teleportation.
The three Juraians were engulfed in blue energy and then teleported down to the ground just below the ship a few feet from Washu, Kiyone, Laurynas and Ryoko.
Aekea scanned them, noticing three people missing, and that there were two strangers. She didn't let on her disappointment, she walked towards them smiling in greeting. She embraced Washu and pulling away nodded curtly at Ryoko who snorted.
"It is good to see you." the princess said as her mother approached from behind, her arm linked through the silver haired lord. Aekea scanned the area once more and then unable to keep herself from it asked a burning question, "Where is Tenchi?"
"He's visiting Mihoshi and Ukyo aboard the Medical ship." Washu told the young woman, casting a glance at the two others approaching, the silver haired young man seemingly on edge.
Ryoko opened her mouth to say something when the night sky was lit up like daylight, catching everyone's attention. They turned to stare as the screams and howls of Juraians who were fleeing from the medical ship filled the air.
It took a moment for everyone to realize what was happening, when with a sudden rush of powerful hot wind the ship exploded, sending shards of the hull flying from the force of it. The earth shook, sending all toppling to the ground, all save one.
The only thing that was louder than the explosion and immune to the force that was knocking the others off their feet was Ryoko who was shouting Tenchi's name her hair whipping in the wind.
She lifted up off the ground her orange shield appearing as small debris bounced off it, then shot through the air at mach one towards the ship.
Aekea sat up, her own Jurai power forming a shield to protect her, she found herself next to Washu who was typing hurriedly bringing up an clear shield to protect the house and the gathered family.
Aekea didn't pay attention to that, she like the others in the family were staring in mute horror as the medical ship continued to explode, fireballs hurling out into the night sky. There was only one chilling thought that raced through her mind: Tenchi.
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Specter Von Baren: You are my 100th reviewer! Congrats. Maybe next chapter you'll have a surprise.
Kit: I'm glad that it has held you attention this entire time. Thank you, I would have liked to hear what you thought about all the other chapters, but then that might take some time no?
mikethebigW: I have a lot of ground to cover with your reviews so here we go. Those multiple arch's are sound like their serving their purpose (Bakio's loyalty is...a mystery)
Your welcome I do have plans for them and giving Mihoshi a little happiness is just small part of it. I am glad that my gift for developing the minor characters has ensnared you.
Thank you for not going over the editing, for as you've noticed I have heard it all before.
Yes, Kiyone thinking Those thoughts about Mihoshi aren't surprising, in fact she's been thinking those thoughts since Tenchi Muyo fanfiction began. (Which began a long long time ago, in a land far away)
alighthawk: Yes a stay of execution did indeed take place, but I don't know for how long. I'm glad the mystery is great, now if I can just figure out what it is myself we'll be set.
mjeb: Yes a new chapter and I'm glad the quality is present. Why do you ask question to which you know I can't give you any answers? And No, the suspense is going to stay, I will reveal nothing at all.
scathachdhu: Honestly so I am, this story is four years old now and its still going. Although I hate to tell you this, but it's not well thought out its written on the fly with only a rough idea of how things should go.
AN:
Chapter 15. Four years of work. And I'm still not done.
I never thought I'd say those words, but something I truly never expected was that I went and started writing in another genre. I have two ongoing stories now, something that I am still sure is not a good idea.
I say this now, even though it might be a disservice to my other work but: HTW is the pinnacle of my talent and skill. I say this after I have compared them both, but I only say this because I feared that my skill had diminished to much.
This chapter was very difficult to write, mainly because I was worried about it being less than my best, but now with whatever fire I have left in me, I believe I managed to produce the magic once more.
I hope you enjoyed this chapter and that you'll leave me lots of reviews.
Sincerely,
Geor-sama
A Nekoshipper