True Parallels

by TheNameUGiveMe

This is a continuation of Sovereign Shapes. Characters from Tenchi Muyo, Desert Punk, two Saiyins, and a host of other people come together in this cluster of a story. The usual romance also continues. Rated T-M.

2. Worlds Collide Again

Chapter 2

Taking small steps out of his bedroom to the beige living room couch, Kanta carefully

walked trying to keep pressure off his injured left leg. The sun was halfway over the

eastern horizon turning off the majority of the street lamps in downtown Singapore.

Still in a drowsy state from the pain medication, Kanta sat down with eyes fighting to

stay open. The sound of movement was coming from the kitchen as Vash was making

himself breakfast before work. A pot of water with a blue flame underneath came from

the stove as two whole eggs were placed inside. Vash always ate light during breakfast.

He never touched the milk or juice in the refrigerator but rather drank the water from

the sink. Kanta looked over towards the kitchen. With a tired and lowered tone of voice

he spoke.

Kanta: "You do know that all the items in the fridge are all of ours right?"

Vash just shrugged with his back turned towards Kanta. In his blue pajamas he continued

to watch the water boil on the stove. He began to think of the woman he left behind on

Gunsmoke. Merryl Strife was her name. She was short in stature but was quite the fighter

if you rubbed her the wrong way. He pondered bringing her back to the current time. Like

Kanta, Vash fell through a portal but instead of landing on Earth he found himself on a

nameless planet. To his luck he came across a space pod that was able to bring him to Earth,

crashing in the desert of Libya in Africa. After the battle with the INSF he returned to the

planet Gunsmoke. Just over two years ago, he was back in Morien's time. He had every chance

to go back to his time on Gunsmoke but for reasons unknown, even to himself, he choose

not to. Regretting that decision Vash planned in his head to head back to Gunsmoke with help

of Washu's dimensional transport device he had on his wrist which was identical to Kanta's

but Kanta locked his away never wanting to return to the Kanto Desert.

Kanta: "You're like a statue when you're in deep thought"

Vash snapped out of his contemplative state.

Vash: "Oh sorry. Yeah just thinking about my past"

Kanta: "You want to go back?"

Vash: "Maybe. It would only be for a short while"

Kanta: "It's a woman isn't it?"

Vash turns around and nods.

Kanta: "Why am I not surprised? First Fingerpaintings, then myself, and now you"

Vash: "If things turn out the way I want I may bring her back here"

Kanta: "I would. Considering you're coming from a desert as well I'm sure she would

remain here with you. This beats the desert any day"

Vash smiles and continues to watch the pot of water which was now boiling.

Kanta: "You know, now that you own a donut shop how do you stay thin? I'm almost

certain you find yourself on a daily basis eating your own product in the back room"

Vash: "Guilty but not as bad as you think. I'm well aware that customers are top priority

and if I were to consume half of what I have then I would be in major trouble. So while it's

a dream come true, well, kind of anyways, I limit myself"

Kanta: "I see"

Kanta's bedroom door opens and Junko walks out holding Kanta's helmet. Kanta gives

her a confused look.

Kanta: "What's going on?"

Junko: "It's beeping"

Kanta: "Beeping?"

Kanta takes the helmet and sees a flashing green light inside.

Kanta: "Who the hell is trying to contact me?"

Putting it on Kanta makes contact.

Kanta: "Yeah, hello?"

Morien: "Long time Mr. Punk"

Kanta: "Fingerpaintings?"

Morien: "There's only one"

Kanta: "Uh yeah. How come you didn't just call the phone?"

Morien: "Because you never gave the number to me"

Kanta: "Well, whoops. Anyways what do ya need?"

Morien: "Washu told me to tell you that there is a party in a few days at Tenchi Masaki's

place. It takes place right after school gets out here in Germany. You are all invited"

Kanta: "What kind of party?"

Morien: "From what I've been told it's a celebration. She never said what but that's all I

know. And there will be music so she told me to pack a few of my instruments"

Kanta: "I'm not really one for parties"

Morien: "Neither am I but come on. It's a break from the normal routine. What's the worse

that could happen?"

Kanta: "A lot actually. Yeah I guess I'll go"

Junko: "What about your leg?"

Kanta: "It will be better at that point"

Junko: "Whatever"

Kanta: "Vash what about you?"

Vash: "Sorry but work calls. Thanks though"

Kanta: "So Vash is out but Junko and I are in. How are we going about this then?"

Morien: "We go as a group. You guys can use dimensional transport to get here then from

there we head to Tenchi's place via Washu's lab"

Junko: "I wonder if Vladimir and Alex would want to come"

Kanta: "Your wingmen? How come?"

Junko: "So they can escape from that icebox that is Russia"

Kanta: "I suppose"

Morien: "Did I just hear her call Russia an icebox?"

Kanta: "Yes. I mean come on; it's not here"

Morien: "Fair enough. What happened to your leg?"

Kanta: "Fell out a window rescuing a kidnapped kid. Nothing new."

Morien: "We're you successful?"

Kanta: "At the cost of my leg"

Morien: "Then it was worth while"

Kanta: "If you say so"

Morien: "Well, I have a test I need to finish making. See you guys in a couple of days"

Kanta: "Yup. Take care of yourself"

Junko: "So you're really going with your leg like that?"

Kanta: "It will be fine in two days"

Junko: "I guess I can't stop you"

Vash finishes breakfast than changes into business attire; a white red-striped polo shirt,

and black dress pants. The scars could easily be seen on both his arms from the turmoil he

faced year after year while on Gunsmoke. With a 60 billion double dollar bounty on his head

he was a prime target for the majority of all people living on the desert planet. Since on Earth,

he felt much more at peace, also not wanting to go back for long periods of time. Vash grabs

his orange sunglasses on the living room table then opens the front door.

Vash: "You two have a great day"

Junko: "You as well"

Kanta: "Later"

Junko: "So what are we doing for the rest of the day?"

Kanta looks at her with a devilish grin.

Kanta: "I can think of one thing"

Junko: "Anything but that"

Kanta: "I'm out of commission for at least 24 hours. If someone contacts us with a job offer

I can't do a damn thing about it"

Junko: "I'll make us some breakfast. Then we can go from there"

Kanta: "You can cook?"

Junko: "Granted I don't do it often but yes I can"

Kanta watches Junko walk into the kitchen, open the refrigerator, and bend down to search

for bread slices and a few eggs. He keeps his eyes on her shapely behind covered by just

white panties with red polka dots which looked very inviting; almost telling him to get off the

couch and cop a feel even with his injured leg but he resisted the urge as he was trying to

better himself in the relationship department. Realizing she was wide open for a viewing, she

quickly stands up and catches Kanta staring but he looks away which surprises her.

Junko: "You actually looked away?"

Kanta: "I'm really trying here"

She raises both eyebrows in almost utter shock.

Junko: "Just for that I'll make you something special"

Kanta: "Just toast and eggs will suffice"

She then looks down noticing her lack of pants.

Junko: "Oh I never even thought to pants on"

Kanta: "You and I both know that was a deliberate act" he said still looking away

Junko: "Still as sharp as ever"

Kanta finally looks back at her.

Kanta: "Nevertheless I still like the view"

Deciding not to put on pants she continues making breakfast. Now standing up Kanta

walks to the kitchen table and sits in the chair backwards with his arms hanging out

from the back of the chair. He keeps his eyes on Junko who looks back at him again.

Junko: "Now what?"

Kanta: "I never thought that making breakfast could ever constitute as art. You in that

white tank top and wearing nothing but underwear below; just keep doing what you're

doing"

She smirks at him.

Junko: "You know. This almost feels sexist"

Kanta: "I never asked you to make breakfast"

Junko: "True"

After a few minutes she finishes breakfast for both of them. After eating they both sit

back on the couch and just converse about whatever came to mind.

---

The morning was humid in Hamburg. As Morien took a few steps out of his home he felt a

sticky sensation that was typical of warm humid mornings. The last day of school had come

and he was probably just as joyous as his students, if not more. Wearing casual clothes, an

orange polo shirt and blue jeans, he took the tram on this morning rather than his usual walk

which he normally did due to the warm summer air approaching. At the station he only waited

40 seconds before a tram, which was covered in various advertisements, stopped in front of

him. There were only 6 other people waiting to get on. The doors hissed open and everyone

waiting walked in. It was mostly vacant on the inside. The people who were already inside

were either reading a newspaper or on their laptop computers preparing for a days work.

Once Morien took his seat the tram began to pull out of the station and picked up speed. An

announcement was made over the intercom letting other passengers know that due to a

mechanical problem with the original express tram this one was now taking on the role of the

express not stopping at the usual morning stops and instead would continue into downtown.

Morien and the other passengers were delighted to hear this as downtown seemed to be

everyone's destination. With even more extra time added to his agenda Morien decided he

would stop at a coffee shop that was just a few blocks from the school. The tram pulled

into the downtown station which was flooded with people. The doors opened and the sound

voices, bells ringing, police whistles blowing, and the smell moisture rising from the concrete

was all around. This was the city. Following a long line of people Morien walked down a few

flights of stairs before reaching the ground level. Within minutes he spots the coffee shop and

walks in. The walls were brown and decorated with replicas of famous paintings such as the

Mona Lisa. To Morien's surprise the line in the coffee shop was not long. In just a few minute

s his turn came to make an order. He was interrupted by the sound of a loud bang on the

entrance door behind him as someone kicked it in hard and got straight to the point.

Man: "Everyone down! This is a robbery!"

Every person cowered down in fear except Morien who just turned his head around and

glared at the man. He was a bald Caucasian with a swastika on his forehead and wore a

black trench coat. He looks at Morien.

Man: "You got trouble listening, pretty boy? I said down….oh…"

A stunning revelation came upon the robber as he now figured out the man in front of him

was what the world called the "Guardian of Earth." Not wanting anything to do with him he

sprinted full force out of the shop but didn't get far. Feeling something grab the collar of his

coat he lifted off the ground and was running stationary on nothing but air.

Morien: "You picked a really horrible time to rob a coffee shop of all places"

Man: "What are you going to do?" he said with a very worried tone of voice.

Morien: "Don't worry about me. It's the police who you're going to have to answer to. And

why the swastika? Didn't you learn anything from World War II? Most European countries

still hate Germany for it and you're advertising a part of history that this country would love

to put behind them"

Man: "It was a prank. I woke up one morning like this"

Morien: "If that's true that's pretty messed up shit. Do you have any weapons on you?"

Man: "No"

Morien: "What were you thinking?"

Man: "It was just the spur of the moment"

Three German police officers ran in formation around the corner responding to a call that the

coffee shop was just robbed. They were relieved that the robber was caught.

Officer: "Thank you. We'll take him from here"

Morien: "He was unarmed. And the 'thing' on his forehead was a prank. Don't hurt him"

German police officers were known for their brutality if you didn't comply. When they gave an

order it was best to obey. Satisfied with the outcome of the morning's unexpected event

Morien went back into the shop and just ordered a black coffee then left for the school. The

classroom was dark even with the sun now coming out. Turning on the lights the first thing he

sees are all the music posters around the classroom. The desks were neatly aligned and the

floor was waxed the night before to give it a noticeable shine. Placing his briefcase on the desk

he opens a few windows to let light in. Outside was the school yard which was being mowed

by school maintenance. Summer vacation was just a few hours away. He would be giving 4

different classes the same test. He took the spring semester off from teaching at the university

lessening his workload so once he was done at the high school he was done until fall. It would

be another half hour before the students started filling in their seats in his classroom. The bell

rang and finals commenced.

Morien: "Welcome everyone. I hope you all studied hard. When you are done with the finals place

them on my desk. I will be walking around so if any of you have questions raise a hand and I will

help in the best way I can. Hope you have a great summer."

With that, he passed out the tests and his students began to write. This process would repeat

3 more times. After the very last test was passed to him he began to grade them. It took several

hours but he was determined to get them done. Break was so close. Finally the last red mark was

made indicating a grade and he recorded it into the computer. That was it. With all grades

submitted to the school he was finally done. Wasting no time he said his goodbyes to the faculty

and headed for his home. Listening to his music he was head banging all the way to his condo

in full view of everyone who was around but he disregarded them. He was too elated to feel

embarrassment. Stepping inside his home he put his briefcase on the table once again. A sudden

loss of energy came upon him. "Man I'm tired. Where did that come from?" he said to himself. Walking

to his sofa he threw himself face first and within minutes fell asleep.

The next morning he was woken up by a rather unexpected voice.

Kanta: "Fingerpaintings! We're here!"

Morien opened his eyes and looked at the clock which read 9:49am the next day.

Morien: "What the hell? Did I really sleep that long? How did end up in my bed?"

He heard multiple voices outside his bedroom door so he knew Kanta wasn't alone which wasn't a

surprise. It was the day of the party at Tenchi Masaki's place. Washu had told Morien to expect

the unexpected which he did not give much thought. Getting up out of the bed he opens his door

and sticks his head out.

Morien: "It's almost 10am. Why so early?"

Kanta: "Because they're in a different time zone dipshit"

Morien: "That failed to register. Okay be out in a few minutes"

Remembering that Washu said it was just casual event, he put on a black Chevelle band shirt

and beige military cargo pants as well as combat boots. He steps out of his room. Along with

Kanta was Junko, Alex, and Vladimir quietly conversing among themselves. He notices Junko who

was wearing a long red dress like she did in the Oasis. In addition she also had a red umbrella.

She reminded him of a geisha.

Morien: "Is that really what you're wearing?"

Junko: "Yes. What's wrong with it?"

Morien: "Nothing! Uhh…looks good!" he said with a nervous smile. "So is everyone ready then?"

They all nodded in his direction. In a few seconds the portal to Washu's lab opens and all of

them walk in. Alex and Vladimir were taken back.

Morien: "I forgot that you two aren't use to this type of sci-fi thing. Except this is not fiction"

Vladimir: "I have never machines like this before"

Morien: "Yeah, my wife runs a pretty damn amazing operation in here, whatever it is"

After a few minutes of searching he finds the door that leads to Tenchi's house.

Morien: "Ok. Try to be on your best behavior" he said looking at Kanta.

Kanta: "Just worry about yourself. I can handle my own self"

Morien puts his hands on the door and pushes. It only gets about 4 inches before it stops on

someone's foot. It was just enough for Morien to see what was happening on the other side.

With both eyes wide open he saw that there were many people in what looked like unfamiliar

style military outfits as well as people dressed casually and also in decorative robes. A voice

spoke from the other side of the door.

Man: "Oh sorry!"

Now the door opened all the way revealing the multitude of people.

Man: "Hey you must be newcomers!"

Morien took note of the man greeting him. He was having a hard time standing up and he

reeked of alcohol.

Morien: "Yeah, hi. What's going on here?"

Man: "It's a celebration of our victory a year ago this day…YAAHOOO!"

With arms up in the air he ran into the kitchen almost knocking down a few people along the

way. Everyone else in the lab stepped out and the door shut behind them. They took in the

scenery of people all around. There wasn't much space to walk and everyone was loud and

laughing hysterically. Morien had to raise his voice so everyone in his group could hear him.

Morien: "So much for small get-together"

Kanta: "My thoughts exactly. I'd say we split and do our own thing"

Morien: "Fine by me"

Morien tried to make his way to the front door while everyone else went up the stairs which

was also filled with party goers. On his way out a man in what looked like a royal decorate

robe lost his balance and had to catch Morien's shoulder to keep from falling. His hair was

purple as well as goatee and straight strands of hair it fell from both sides of his head. It was

identical to Ayeka's hair color. He was laughing lightly.

Man: "Mah boy…this piece is our one…true…dinner"

His breath reeked of alcohol even worse than the first man he met.

Morien: "Uhh…nice to meet you too" he said with an eyebrow raised.

A woman who's robe was similar to his came up and took him by his arm. Her hair was aqua

green similar to that of Sasami's.

Woman: "Honey. I'm glad you are having fun but I think you may be scaring this poor man.

Just have a seat" she said gleefully.

After setting him down she turns to Morien.

Woman: "Sorry about that. He can't hold his alcohol very well"

Morien: "At least he looks happy"

She smiles.

Woman: "I'm Misaki, empress of Jurai"

Morien: "Empress? Seriously?"

Misaki: "Yes. The man you just met was my husband, Emperor Asuza. And sitting next to

him is Empress Funaho" Funaho took note and smiled, giving him a light bow.

Morien was taken back. He had never been in the presence of royalty.

Morien: "It's a pleasure to meet you your highness" he said with a bow.

Misaki: "No need for that. We are all equals here today" she said cheerfully.

Morien: "My name is Morien"

Misaki: "Morien? Washu has brought you up a few times. She may like you" she said

elbowing his side.

Morien: "Is that so? By the way, your highness, what's going on today? Washu said this

was to be a small get together but it looks like a rock concert in here"

Misaki: "We are celebrating the victory of a great battle that took place one year ago from

this day. We have made it a tradition to come to Earth and enjoy the festivities provided by

Captain Thomas Franklin and his crew each year"

Morien: "I see"

Misaki: "Well I won't keep you waiting too long. Go outside and enjoy! We have to make

sure our husband behaves himself"

Morien: "We? Oh wait, nevermind"

He gave all three of them a slight bow then almost fighting his way through crowds of people

he walks outside and sees that things are not that much different outside except that is was

on a much larger scale. The sun was preparing to sink below the mountains turning the sky

pink. The sound of music had caught his ear and he look in its direction. In the distance he

spotted a massive organ with two people playing on it. It was on a makeshift stage complete

with lighting and the works. There was a large crowd looking at the two people performing.

Morien had looked closer at the front of the crowd and spotted Ayeka with her arms wrapped

around a man who was considerably well built. His spiky hair made him stand out from the rest

of the crowd. "Looks like she finally found someone" Morien thought to himself. "In the past couple

of years everyone I know seems to be finding a date. Anyways I think I'm going to go visit the

spot where we crashed years ago in the woods nearby." The sound of the music was fainting

as he began to walk towards the woods. Even in the furthest areas away from the house people

could be seen partying. Coming to an open area Morien sees there are no people and continues

to walk. The man standing next to Ayeka turns his head and notices Morien far out in the distance.

His facial expression went from content to concern.

Man: "Honey, I'm going to go for a bit" he said letting go of her arm

Ayeka: "Is everything alright?"

Man: "I hope so"

---

Back at Tenchi's home Alex and Vladimir split from Kanta and Junko who had come back down the

stairs to find even more people filling in to the living room. As they turned towards the dining room a

man with a camera comes into their view. He takes his eye out of the viewing screen noticing they

did not look like they were from Tom's crew. All three of them made eye contact and walked towards

each other.

Nobuyuki: "Hey, I'm Nobuyuki. You guys look new"

Kanta: "New enough I suppose. I'm Kanta and this is Junko"

Nobuyuki is caught off guard staring right into Junko's massive breasts.

Nobuyuki: "Nice to meet boobs…I mean you! Aw dammit!"

Junko: "It's quite alright. It happens all the time"

Nobuyuki: "You're not going to slap across the face?" he asked surprised

Junko: "Nope. Besides everyone here is in good spirits so we should keep it that way"

Nobuyuki: "Well then. Welcome to my place! Make yourselves at home. There is plenty of drinks

around so enjoy!"

He smiled at the two then turned his camera back on and resumed recording the events.

Junko: "He seems nice"

Kanta: "Let's see what's happening outside"

Sliding the door open Kanta and Junko look outside. It was getting dark but the energy of the party

seemed to increase. They looked at the stage with the organ on it. The lights were moving with the

rhythm of the music coming from the giant instrument. From above Junko hears voices and turns

around to find Alex and Vladimir on the roof.

Junko: "Hey, what the hell are you two doing up there?"

They shrugged their shoulders. Junko looks at both of their hands and sees they are holding bottles

of vodka both of which are half full.

Junko: "They brought their own vodka?"

Vladimir: "Hey, it's a party is it not commander?" He was trying hard to stay on his feet.

Kanta: "Are these guys for real? They haven't even been here an hour and they're already hammered!"

Alex: "You're mother is hammered, Kanta! OOOH! You see what I did there?"

Kanta: "Unfortunately. If I'm lucky maybe one of them will fall off"

Junko: "Will you two just come down from there?"

Vladimir: "Make us! WOOHOO!"

Kanta: "Forget this. They're on their own now"

Junko: "I guess so"

Other party members saw Alex and Vladimir on the roof and thinking it was a great idea

many people joined them and danced to whatever the organ was playing. Walking on the

deck, Kanta and Junko took in the sights from outside. In the pond below them people were

swimming, splashing each other with water. Once they reached dry land they were stopped

by a small group of men in military attire who were among the drunk.

Man: "Hey toots. What do you say you join us and we head back to the Gray Wolf and we get it on?"

Junko: "How about we don't?" she said with a smirk

Man: "Aww come on! You don't need the short stack. I'm more man than him!"

Junko: "I don't know about that…little guy" again she smirked but it had a more evil demeanor to it.

Man: "Okay, that's crossing the line! You, shortshit! Stand in her place so I can kick your ass!"

Kanta: "Whatever"

Kanta stood in front of Junko with his signature cold steel look as the man in front of him

took off his jacket so he was just in a sleeveless shirt and pants.

Man: "This won't take long"

Kanta: "I think you are correct"

Not even taking a stance the man throws a punch but Kanta easily dodges. Becoming

more frustrated in his drunken state he wildly swings. Even Junko had to duck. Finally

Kanta had enough. The man took one last swing and Kanta ducked. From there he head

butts the man's abdomen causing him to spit up quite a bit of saliva. Then Kanta finishes

him off with an uppercut. As it lands, the man's jaw turns to the right and he falls backwards

landing on his back with arms stretched out. The other 3 part of his group were in shook.

The man Kanta just knocked out was larger in size than the other 3. Others standing around

took notice and joined in.

Officer: "Okay. You want to fight? That's fine. We need the practice anyways but we'll

make it even. I need a few of you to join their side and the rest will stay with me"

It was 6 on 6. A man in Kanta's group introduced himself.

Man: "Hey. I'm Larry"

Kanta: "Kanta. What a way to get introduced"

Larry: "Well, we are a military force. If we're not having fun we're training. Excuse me

madam but you don't have to fight"

Junko: "I was born a fighter. I'm not walking out of this"

Larry: "Suit yourself. Alright. Let's do this!"

---

With headphones in his ears, Morien continues his walk trying to reach the distant woods

which were almost out of sight due to the fading light. Up ahead he spots where the C-5

Galaxy crashed years ago. There was a massive void in the trees where the aircraft had

struck. Morien stopped for a moment to remember that day. He chuckled to himself thinking

about everything that had happened that led him to here. Pressing forward he got about

another 15 feet before he hit what he thought was a wall. Closing his eyes he fell

backwards but caught himself. Holding his nose he felt a bit of blood come out.

Morien: "What the hell?"

Looking in front of him he didn't see anything. He extended his hand out and felt something.

It felt like metal. He takes his headphones out of his ears.

Morien: "Is this an invisible wall?"

Man: "Hey! I've been trying to call ya but you looked like you were having a jolly old time

listening to your music" said a voice from behind.

Morien turned around. It was the same man Ayeka had her arms wrapped around. As he

approached Morien took note of his high muscle mass.

Morien: "Damn dude. You on steroids or something?" he joked

Man: "Nope. This is the real deal. Let's just say it came with the package"

Morien mused for a second trying to figure out how he would decipher what the man just said.

Man: "The name's Russ" he extended his hand which Morien grabbed a hold of.

Morien: "Morien. Pleasure to meet you"

As Russ shook his hand he raised an eyebrow.

Russ: "No offense but are you human?"

Morien: "Yes. Why?"

Russ: "I've never felt this kind of energy before. Not to mention it seems high even for a human. You might be able to take on a Jurian and win"

Morien: "Maybe I'll find out one day. But I came to this party to…drink I guess. I noticed that you were standing with Ayeka. Are you two…dating?"

Russ: "Yes we are" he said proudly "And actually this party has a lot to do with that"

Morien: "Oh? Enlighten me"

Russ: "In case no one else has told you, this party is the celebration of a victory that was won by my friend Tom and his crew one year ago. The battle happened because Ayeka's father, Emperor Asuza, did not want her on Earth and did not want her with me. So, bringing along his crew he came to Earth and when she refused to go home to Jurai he was going to attack us. Luckily my friend Tom was there with his highly advanced fleet of space fighters and we beat them. It was tough though. We were outnumbered but we still came out on top. Speaking of advanced fighter, let me show you something"

Extending his hand towards the invisible wall the object was revealed and it was not a wall but rather a space age looking fighter.

Morien: "That looks really familiar"

Russ: "Can you guess where it's from?"

Morien: "Umm…Battlestar Galactica?"

Russ's face went from friendly to a glare. Morien tiled his head at an angle curiously looking at his facial expression.

Morien: "I take that as a no…or a maybe!"

Russ: "NO! Battlestar Galactica? That is an abomination of science fiction! And that God-awful word "Frak"…UGGH…I cannot stand that show. Sorry about that. It's actually from Star Wars"

Morien: "That would have been my next guess. What type of ship is this?"

Russ: "It's a Tie Defender"

Morien: "Where or how the hell did you make this thing? It looks so real"

Russ: "It is real. Tom created it somehow"

Russ walks up to his Tie Defender and presses a button firing a harmless green laser from one of its cannons.

Morien: "I was never a huge fan of Star Wars but this is beyond amazing"

Russ: "Thanks. And another friend of mine has a Toscan Fighter"

Morien: "I'm afraid I don't know what that is"

Now walking back towards the party, Morien and Russ continue to talk about things that interest them.

Russ: "Guitar eh. How good are you?"

Morien: "I'm…okay I guess. I'm no Slash or Buckethead. Do you play anything?"

Russ: "Piano, organ, drums, a few other things"

Morien: "Any particular bands you like?"

Russ: "I like a bit of everything but recently I've been into Crystal Method"

Morien: "I haven't listened to them for ages"

Russ: "What do you listen to?"

Morien: "I'm really fond of hard rock and metal. Granted I like other genres like Celtic music but

for the most part I'm a metal head. It drives my wife, Washu, crazy sometimes though"

He said with a laugh then stops dead in his tracks realizing he just revealed his secret to Russ.

Russ: "Washu?" he said with his mouth slightly open

Morien: "Russ, the others don't know. I would like to keep it that way for a bit longer"

Russ: "Dude! That's awesome! You and Washu! I never thought she would get married. But

why are you keeping it a secret?"

Morien: "It's fun? I honestly don't know"

They continue to walk with the house now visible.

Russ: "How do you think the others will react?"

Morien: "Whatever happens, happens. So you and Ayeka…when did that start?"

Russ: "Oh boy. Where do I begin? Umm…well a few years ago I came to earth to stop

Zorpheus, my friend who's around here somewhere, from gaining immortality by ways of

a unique means. I landed around here and Mr. Masaki, along with everyone else, was nice

enough to let me stay. When I met Ayeka I thought she was gorgeous but I didn't want a

relationship. I was too focused on the task at hand which was Zorpheus. I trained just about

everyday. No matter what I tried she always wanted us to date. So, long story short, Zorpheus

came, we almost killed each other, got healed, then Zorpheus had to kick my ass to convince

me to date her. Now here we are after all we've been through"

Morien: "You should write a novel about that"

Russ: "Nah. The story is still being written"

Morien focuses on a large group of people standing by the shore of the pond. He hears the

chant "fight fight fight."

Russ: "What on earth is going on?"

Morien: "Why do I have this feeling someone I know is behind this?"

Morien turns his head to find Russ gone. He then looks up and sees him floating in the air

getting a look at the fight in the middle of the circle of people. Finding a tree he climbs up

quickly and looks at the action in the middle of group of people. He sees people lying on

the ground holding their heads in defeat. The only two people standing are Kanta and

someone 3 times his size in front of him. Russ comes over to Morien.

Russ: "That's Zorpheus. And I take it the other one is a friend of yours"

Morien: "Yes. What's going on? Any idea?"

Russ: "If I were your friend I would stand down"

Morien: "I've seen Kanta take down men that size"

Russ: "You don't understand. We are not exactly human"

Morien: "Okay what are you then?"

Russ: "Our race is known as the Saiyins. We are extremely powerful"

Morien: "So supernatural strength then?"

Russ began to speak but his lips began to move in slow motion. Morien raised an eyebrow

wondering what was happening. He moved himself but he was moving at normal speed. Or

so he thought. Looking back at the Kanta he sees Zorpheus with his hand extended

towards Kanta.

Morien: "OH SHIT…."

A white ball of energy came out of Zorpheus's hands heading right for Kanta. But it was in

slow motion. Not thinking about why, Morien jumps down from the tree and super sprints

through the group of people reaching the two men facing off. The energy ball was just ten

feet away from Kanta. With fist thrusting forward, Morien swats away the energy ball sending

it skyward, making a small explosion. Now his world returns to normal speed. The entire

crowd around him gasps. He unleashes some anger on Kanta.

Morien: "What the hell are you doing? Can't I leave you alone for one second without you

doing something completely apeshit?"

Kanta does not respond but rather looks over Morien's shoulder. Morien caught this and knew

someone was right behind him and he knew who it was. Turning around he was now face

to face with Zorpheus. Right away he notices that he is missing an eye.

Zorpheus: "How the hell did you do that?"

Morien: "I'm a magician...I don't know; it just happened. Why did you attack Kanta?"

Zorpheus: "He said he could take it. He said 'come at me with any attack' and I replied with

'anything?' and he nodded. So I gave what he asked for. Besides he attacked my friends first"

Morien: "Well next time pick on someone who can handle an attack like that"

The crowd fell silent.

Zorpheus: "Like you?"

Morien: "Oh. I walked right into that one didn't I? Yeah, me apparently"

Zorpheus: "Then let's continue this shall we?"

Not giving Morien a chance to take a stance Zorpheus comes at Morien with an overhead

crushing blow but Morien quickly evades. The punch hits the ground sending dirt and dust

everywhere scattering the crowd. He looks around but doesn't see him anywhere.

Zorpheus: "Come out, come out wherever you are"

He feels a tap on his shoulder.

Zorpheus: "Gotcha!"

He swings around with a backfist but Morien ducks and responds with a Spartan kick

sending Zorpheus over the crowd and into the pond. Mihoshi was near where he landed

as he resurfaced.

Mihoshi: "Oh hey you! Finally decided to come join me?"

Zorpheus: "I'm…a bit…busy baby. I'll be right back"

Zorpheus flies up into the air then looks down at Morien who is looking up at him with a

straight face.

Zorpheus: "I don't know what kind of power that is but I will say it's impressive. However,

fun time is over"

Zorpheus's hair starts to flash yellow and his eye flashes blue.

Zorpheus: "Witness the awesome power of a Super Saiyin!"

He transforms into a being emitting almost blinding light. The surrounding trees reflected

the light. The entire property now had all eyes on him. Everyone in the house ran outside.

Morien remained unchanged with his arms crossed waiting for Zorpheus to make a move. From

behind Zorpheus, another Super Saiyin appeared putting him into a full nelson.

Russ: "That's enough!"

Zorpheus: "Let me go! He started this!"

Russ: "I don't think he did. You want to kill someone? Stop this now!"

Zorpheus looks down at Morien in disappointment, not getting a chance to attack him as a

Super Saiyin.

Zorpheus: "Until next time" he said looking at Morien who smirked at him and raised an

eyebrow. Coming through the crowd was another well built man in a while military outfit

decorated with medals. He did not seem happy.

Man: "Okay guys! WHAT THE HELL? I go through all this trouble making this party possible

and you are all fighting! This is not like you at all!"

Russ: "Sorry Tom. Things just got out of hand"

Junko: "Maybe if your drunken men would stop asking me to go to some ship and make

me howl all night long this would have never happened!"

Kanta: "It's true"

Tom: "Well you guys?"

Man: "Sorry sir. I was drunk and…"

Tom: "That's no excuse! You know how I feel about disrespecting women! Do not let

this happen again! Are you all clear on that?"

A huge "Yes sir" came from the crowd.

Tom: "And I see we have some new faces"

Morien, Kanta, and Junko stepped forward.

Morien: "I'm Morien Eeham"

Kanta: "Kanta Mizuno"

Junko: "Junko Asagiri"

Tom: "Welcome to the party. I'm Captain Thomas Franklin"

Zorpheus and Russ come down and join the 4.

Tom: "Now that you've all introduced yourselves in a rather unconventional way you

better start getting along. If you excuse me, I'm going back to join my sweetheart, Nagi,

and the others"

They all watched Tom walk away then turn towards each other with the crowd still looking

at them.

Zorpheus: "Sorry about that, dude. It was a misunderstanding. That was quite an ass-kicking

you gave me"

Morien: "I wouldn't have called that an ass kicking. If I didn't know any better I'd say you

were about to destroy me with your 'lightbulb' ability"

Russ: "That's called a Super Saiyin"

Zorpheus: "So what are you? Are you a Saiyin as well?"

Morien: "No. I'm human with a few perks"

Zorpheus: "A few? No human has ever been able to stand up to me and actually put on an

offense. Of course I wasn't really powered up"

Morien: "Excuses, excuses" he laughs

Zorpheus: "Hey! It's true"

Morien: "I believe you. Besides, if it's any consolation, I was kind of nervous to fight you

for a moment"

Soon Tenchi along with everyone else came out and joined.

Tenchi: "Morien, Kanta. How are you guys?"

Kanta: "Better now that we are getting along"

Ryoko: "Holy cow. It's been years since I've seen the both of you"

Morien: "Likewise. You haven't aged a bit"

Ryoko turned red then smile a bit.

Kiyone: "Welcome back Morien"

Morien: "Thank you Kiyone"

Ayeka: "I've assumed you have all met Russ"

Morien: "Sure have but more Zorpheus than Russ"

Zorpheus laughs.

Russ: "Well you guys. It's dark now. I'd say we light up that stage with some music.

You in, Morien?"

Morien looks over at Kanta who nods back at him.

Morien: "Lead the way"

The group along with the crowd makes their way towards the stage in the distance.

Tenchi: "So how have you been?"

Morien: "School just got out for the summer in Germany. You have no idea how happy

I am about that. What's new with you?"

Tenchi: "I think the question should be what isn't new"

Ryoko: "You said it, dear. We have a lot of info we need to fill you three in with"

Morien: "Where is Mihoshi?"

Kiyone: "In the pond somewhere"

Zorpheus: "Oh thanks for reminding me. I'll catch up with you guys in a bit"

Zorpheus heads back to the pond.

Kanta: "What was that about?"

Kiyone: "Those two are dating"

Kanta: "Man, love is just in the air everywhere today isn't it?"

Kiyone's face turned slightly sad and Kanta notices.

Kanta: "Oh. I guess almost everywhere"

Kiyone: "It's okay. I won't lie though. I am quite envious"

Junko: "Don't worry. The right guy will come sooner than you think"

Junko looks over back at the house and sees Alex and Vladimir still on the roof dancing.

Junko: "Those idiots. It's amazing they're skilled pilots"

Kanta: "In their defense they are Russian"

Morien overhears.

Morien: "What's that supposed to mean?"

Kanta: "That you're all a bunch of drunken crazy loonies"

Morien: "Oh. No argument from me"

Kanta: "So how come you're not like that?"

Morien: "Because I'm only half Russian"

Kanta: "Yeah the half makes a huge difference" he said sarcastically.

Ryoko: "I'd like to put that to the test. How about a drinking contest?"

Morien: "Drinking games? I haven't done those since…actually I don't think I ever have.

If I have then I don't remember. I suppose so. Any particular game you like?"

Ryoko: "You call it"

Morien: "Boxing then"

Ryoko: "Which is?"

Morien: "I'll explain it when it's time. I will only say now that you need a drinking partner"

Ryoko looks at Tenchi.

Tenchi: "Whoa, wait. I'm really not much of a…"

Ryoko: "Hush! You are my drinking partner, like it or not"

Tenchi sighed in defeat.

Morien: "Now I need a drinking partner"

Ayeka: "Russ will happily join you"

Russ: "No I will not. You know I don't drink"

A crowd began to form around the stage where the organ stood. At the front Ayeka's

younger blue-haired sister appeared, running to Morien and giving him a hug.

Sasami: "Morien! How are you?"

Morien: "I'm great! And you? You're looking absolutely adorable as always."

Sasami: "Thank you"

Morien: "Oh man. I cannot wait to try your cooking again. Superb!"

Sasami: "Aww shoot"

Morien: "What's new with you?"

Sasami: "Well, other than Russ and Zorpheus moving in with us nothing has really changed"

She looks over and sees Kanta.

Sasami: "Hey Kanta!"

She walks up to him and hugs him as well. Kanta was surprised as he was not used to

receiving hugs from anyone. He couldn't remember the last time he was hugged. It actually

softened him up on the inside a bit. He returned with a hug of his own.

Kanta: "Hey kiddo. Long time"

Sasami: "And who's this with you?" she asked looking at Junko.

Junko: "I'm Junko. Pleased to meet you"

As Junko and Sasami talked for a bit Kanta, Morien, and Russ came together to discuss

plans for the upcoming stage performance.

Russ: "Okay guys, so what are we doing?"

Morien: "No idea. I do covers of other songs and that's really about it"

Russ: "Same. Kanta what do you do?"

Kanta: "Drums. Preferably with a double-pedal bass set"

Russ: "You guys need a bassist?"

Morien: "Actually Vladimir plays bass and is quite good at it"

Kanta: "Good luck trying to get him off the roof"

Russ: "That him up there?"

Kanta nods.

Russ: "Hey you guys. Turn off the music for a second"

The two men playing on the organ stop and the dancing on the roof follows suit. Now a bit

more sober, Vladimir speaks up.

Vladimir: "Hey, where's the music?" he said in a strong Russian accent.

Kanta: "Get your ass down here! We need you to play bass!"

Vladimir: "In front of them?"

Kanta: "Is there a problem with that? Get down here now or I'll push you off!"

The crowd lowered their heads a bit listening to the somewhat awkward conversation.

Morien: "You sure know how to make friends"

Kanta: "If you're too soft they do whatever they want"

Minutes later Vladimir shows up.

Vladimir: "So what's going on?"

Morien: "We've been asked to sing. Might as well give them a show"

Kanta: "And what are we going to play?"

Morien: "Remember that one Chevelle song we played in my studio?"

They both nodded.

Morien: "We can play that one"

Kanta: "Sounds good to me"

Vladimir: "Ok but where are the instruments? All I see is this massive hunk of instrument

on stage"
Morien: "I have one of Washu's portal devices housing the instruments"

Russ: "So you three want to go first?"

Morien: "Doesn't matter to me"

Russ: "Alright. We'll follow up with something then"

Morien, Kanta, and Vladimir walk up behind the organ and pull out instruments and parts.

After setting each one on the grass each person grabs an instrument, cord, and walks on

stage. They were a bit nervous as they had never played on stage before in front of a

crowd this big. People were now coming out of the house including the Jurian royalty. Washu

was among them. The crowd was casually talking to themselves while the trio was setting

up their instruments on stage.

Kanta: "Can you help me fix the drums?"

Morien: "Just a second"

Vladimir opens a black rectangular case and pulls out a bass guitar.

Morien: "Be care with that one. It took me a while to find a bass like that"

Vladimir: "She's in good hands"

Morien smiles then helps Kanta set up the drums. Afterwards he turns his attention to his

orange PRS tuning it to Drop-C. He plays with it a little before plugging it. Afterwards he

plays a small solo getting a cheer from the crowd testing the speakers. Kanta beats on

the drums making sure each microphone was working. Vladimir gave a few notes off the

bass making sure it was ready. The crowd started to get quiet. Russ and Zorpheus were

standing in the front row along with Tenchi, Ryoko, Junko, Ayeka, Sasami, Mihoshi, and

Kiyone. Washu was in the back with Asuza, Misaki, and Funaho. Lastly Morien and Vladimir

check their microphones. Morien walks over to Kanta and Vladimir giving them a friendly

fist pound then walks to his microphone with guitar in hand.

Morien: "Good evening everyone. I was asked by Russ earlier if I wanted to perform tonight.

I wasn't expecting this much of a turnout so I think I speak for everyone up here when I

say I'm a bit nervous" the crowd cheers "With that being said we're going to play something

a bit heavier than what you've been listening to tonight. It's the only thing I know how to do

at this point. I hope you all enjoy" He hits the string on his guitar letting it ring out all over the

property. "This song is called 'Sleep Apnea' by Chevelle. Let's rock out!" The whole crowd

cheers and the trio begins their song. Morien plays the intro followed by a burst of heavy

sound as Vladimir and Kanta join in. Morien starts head banging madly while Vladimir bobs his

head back and forward. Kanta hits the drums as hard as he could. All around strobe lights

were flashing matching the beat of the music. The crowd began to jump and even a mosh pit

formed. The first verse came.

Morien: "There sat a new test
Much harder that you bought in
As for the unseen, just take care of what you will
Light the silent alarm
We never think that we're missing much 'til

I gasp and hold my breath
These needs had changed so deep
To face you all and say
I've been awake for…

I need a new test
Then I set out to choose someone to
Light the soul like a kiln
Just imagine us chasing this with
Eyes scorned from sleep apnea
A slight of tongue as the sea surrounds me

I gasp and hold my breath
These needs have changed so deep
To face you all and say
I've been awake for...

Ever
Ever
Ever
Ever

Try to read off a letter that's falling apart
The sun and the moon; I count sheep
Escape like an animal I'm ready for my sleepless stroll

Vladimir: I felt these shifting hours mistakenly used up….

Morien: So I gasp and hold my breath
These needs have changed so deep
To face you all and say
I've been awake for years/forever

I gasp and hold my breath
These needs have changed so deep
To face you all and say
I've been awake for...

Ever
Ever
Ever
Ever

The crowd erupted in cheer and clapping.

Morien: "Thank you guys so much! Gentlemen, we're out of here!"

After leaving the stage the trio once again goes behind the organ to put their things

away. Russ and Zorpheus join them.

Russ: "That was amazing you guys!

Zorpheus: "That's going to be a tough act to follow up"

Morien: "I have a question about your lighting system"

Russ: "Okay"

Morien: "Do they work based on beats or genre?"

Russ: "I'm not really sure. How come?"

Morien: "Part of what makes a great show is the lights. If you play something a bit

more electronic the light show will be that much more amazing. You guys should cover

a song of The Faint or something"

Zorpheus: "I have not heard them forever. Let's do that Russ!"

Russ: "Sounds good. See you guys in the front row!"

The trio left behind Russ and Zorpheus to prepare for their performance. Kanta and

Vladimir join the group in the front while Morien makes his way back towards Washu. He

sees that she is standing next to the two empresses and the Emperor.

Washu: "Nice performance"

Morien: "Really?"

Washu: "For tonight, yes"

Misaki: "It was a nice deviation from what I normally listen to. I forgot how much energy

there is in music like that"

Funaho: "Maybe you should play at Startica Festival"

Morien: "Startica?"

Washu: "Too much info for now. I will explain it to him later"

Asuza looked over at Morien. He didn't say anything but he smiled and nodded his

direction and Morien did the same in return.

Morien: "Are you feeling better?"

Asuza: "From what?"

Morien: "Earlier today"

Asuza: "Oh that was you wasn't it? For now yes. Believe me I'm going to be like that

again in a few hours once this is over and the party continues"

Morien, Washu, and the two empresses chuckled a bit then looked over at the stage

as Russ sat on the organ chair and Zorpheus set up a microphone. A set of drums

appeared from nowhere and Tom took his place behind them. On guitar and bass were

two of Tom's lieutenants.

Zorpheus: "Hello everyone! We're gonna try to beat the first act tonight with another

cover suggested by the first performers. And I kid about beating the first group. They

were great were they not?" The crowd cheers in agreement "Ok. Getting right to the

point this is Paranioattack by The Faint. I want to see you guys moving! Ya got it?"

Russ set up the sounds he wanted from the organ setting up several different types of

electronic sounds. He turned to everyone and when they all indicated they were ready

he signaled for someone to turn off the lights. The stage went dark and the crowd cheered.

Immediately the first electronic sound hit setting off the stage lights to flash orange.

Then the second sound hit alternating the lights orange and green. Soon other sounds

followed creating a kaleidoscope of colors on the stage. The crowd was now really getting

into it as they jumped up and down. Soon the drums hit and the stage went up in lights

which would have sent an epileptic to his or her death. It was now Zorpheus about to

sing into the microphone.

Zorpheus: "The news has got me paranoid,
Papers and the news reports,
Casualties of everyone,
Anchor people beat the score.
The weapon is now chemicals,
More then any of them,
Circulating envelopes,
With powder through the postal route.

(Morien ran up to the stage and then dove off into the crowd landing somewhere

between the 5th and 6th row of people, crowd surfing his towards the back.)

Threat of the diseases,
And we don't give two thoughts about it,
Here, it took forever 'til it stopped,
Mandatory needle shots.
They gave us all a little dose,
Feed your bodies, how'd it go?
Finally when we had it,
Look some terrorists are packed with it.

The public end is working now,
I'm falling for a hook and reel,
Stocking up on medicine,
Buying tape to seal itself.

And,
Paranoia!

Paranoia!

Paranoia!

Paranoia!

Paranoia!

Paranoia!

Paranoia!

Paranoia!

Paranoia!

Paranoia!

Paranoia!

Paranoia!

Paranoia attack,
Paranoia war,
Paranoia seems like a bomb.

Paranoia threat,
Paranoia fact,
Paranoia drops bombs.

Bombs.

Paranoia.

The music continued for about 3 more minutes before it was over. The crowd cheered loudly and clapped.

Zorpheus: "Thanks! I think that's enough for tonight. See you all in a bit!"

End of Chapter 2

Russ, Zorhpeus, Tom, Larry, and anyone else who is a part of Tom's crew

belong to Russbuster. Morien, Vladimir, and Alex are my characters. Everyone

else belongs to their rightful owners. If you are reading this Russ I hope I spelled

everyone's names correctly :/