Chapter 5
Sitting slouched back in his black leather seat and with both legs perched on the cockpit dashboard,
he gazes out the window to his left seeing the spiral galaxy he just departed from. He casually pilots
the January into the Milky Way Galaxy with the mere usage of his pinky on the control stick. The January
was a spear shaped vessel that was mainly used as a cargo space cruiser but it did have one weapon;
a particle cannon that could easily destroy planets, even gas giants, with one shot. Being awake for
more than 2 days straight he was fighting off comatose and it was a losing battle. With only the cockpit
controls and gauge indicators as a source of light the cockpit was dark which added to his draining
energy. He dozed off for several seconds at a time but woke up when the absent pilot warning sounded.
The cockpit door behind him opened revealing a black haired man wearing a welder's mask, a black
sleeveless shirt which had several holes in them, and red cargo pants. He lifts up his mask.
"Vegas? I've heard the absent pilot warning several times now. You really need to give it rest"
"Then who will pilot this spacecraft, Jaysen?"
"I helped you build the January. I can take on the duty of a relief pilot"
Adjusting his GP hat he sits up in his seat. He was, however, not part of the Galaxy Police or even
affiliated as he found the hat from the aftermath of a battle that took place on a distant planet.
Putting the controls on autopilot he stands up convinced he needs to give the controls to the engineer.
"Have you even flown this thing before?" asked the pilot
"A 3 month old baby could pilot this, Vegas. I did, after all, design this ship to be as foolproof
and failsafe as possible even if it was at a slightly heavy cost"
"Don't remind me why Captain Tom Franklin kicked me out of his crew, Jaysen"
"At least we have what we wanted, well, sort of"
"It's close enough. That's why we scavenge from other damaged or destroyed space vessels"
"Do we stay on the current course then, Vegas?"
"Yes. Head towards Earth. If the hacked information we obtained from the Galaxy Police is correct,
the two men who defeated Emperor Asuza's forces in that skirmish should be on Earth. Also, the Gray
Wolf is stationed close to Earth but since we "borrowed" the technology to cloak our ship it
shouldn't detect us"
"First you become a pariah then we have to risk seeing all of them. Some plan this is"
"You know why we're doing this, Jaysen"
"I'm not changing my mind about any of this but I'm reminding myself of the negative possibilities.
Sorry for being a downer. Anyways, I'm going to put the January into rip mode. It should take us
about 2 to 3 weeks to reach Earth even with the Ego Bypass Generator fully operating"
"If you know what you're doing then I'm going to take a 4 day rest. Wake me if you need anything"
At the controls, Jaysen sets the auto pilot as it calculates the safest route to Earth taking into
account magnetic storms, asteroids, and other vessels that could become a major hazard and
of course planets too. Once set, he takes a seat for a moment as the January enters rip mode
which is identical to hyperdrive but then the Ego Bypass Generator activates pushing the ship
to 3 times the speed of hyperdrive. The ship became completely silent as it propelled itself
Earthbound. Jack Vegas and Jaysen White; two drifters who spent the majority of their time
wandering in the depths of space, only stopping on other planets to get supplies, head to Earth
with a plan. Vegas was and still is a highly skilled pilot and was formerly part of Tom Franklin's crew
until being banished. As the Gray Wolf was in its construction phase Vegas was so impressed and
taken back by the intensity of the project he wanted his own vessel but was denied. Going behind
Tom's back he started to copy the plans to the Gray Wolf but was caught in the process. Jack was
shot out into space in a small emergency space pod being at the mercy of wherever he landed. Luck
was on his side as he found himself on a nameless planet that was life sustainable. Not wandering
far from where the space pod landed he came across a city where he met Jaysen White, a multi-purpose
engineer and a doctor. The men who carried out Jack's punishment were not aware he got away with
several of the design blue prints for the Gray Wolf. Jack revealed the plans to Jaysen who said a smaller
vessel could be created from what he gathered. Against his wishes, he settled for a smaller vessel but
with an addition that the Gray Wolf did not have. Jaysen, along with a team of other engineers, had
experimented with methods to travel faster than hyperspace. After successful test runs they named the
propulsion system the Ego Bypass Generator and had it installed on the January once it was completed.
But that was not the only engineering marvel of the January. A consolidator was also installed onboard
which assimilated parts of other vessels into their own ship and being used where the main computer
saw most fit. Over the course of a few years the January had increased significantly in size but was
still dwarfed by the Gray Wolf hundreds of times over. In the end it had only two members onboard the
entire ship, Jack and White (Jaysen actually prefers going by his last name). After a long debate with
each other they finally decided to make a course for the planet Earth and proceed with an unknown
objective.
The time was just around noon as the sun was directly above on a perfectly clear and windless day.
Tall cylinder-like buildings surrounded a park with nothing but red roses and the occasional tree.
White brick pathways stretched from end to end within the park. In her science academy attire,
Washu sat on a bench typing on a holographic computer but her mind was elsewhere. Filled with
joy she waited almost impatiently for the arrival of her husband and newborn son. Her husband
finally got some time off to visit her. Unable to concentrate any longer, her computer fades away
and she sits back, taking in the scenery of flowers and tall buildings. With a smile on her face she
gazes up into the warm tropical air. A few minutes later she hears footsteps and just as she eagerly
anticipated she spots her husband holding her child casually walking in the park. Washu stands up
and waves her hand at him. He responds with a smile and walks over to her.
"You kept me waiting a while, Mikamo"
Mikamo's smile turns into a straight face and then a slight frown. Washu looks concerned.
"What's wrong?"
"Washu, I have some news. It's not good either"
Washu starts shaking slightly but doesn't think much of it. She had thought maybe he was being
called into military duty which was a saddening thought but she kept high hopes of seeing him
again if this was the case. At least she had her new born son, Akaki.
"It's the military isn't it?"
"I'm afraid not, Washu. I…well as you know I come from a very prestigious family"
Washu was starting to get an idea of how this was going to end. Her eyes start to water a bit.
"Mikamo, please don't tell me…."
"I'm sorry Washu. The Kuramitsu family has become aware of our marriage. Because of my social
status I'm…being forced to leave"
Now tears started rolling down Washu's face. She reaches her arms out wanting to hold her son
but Mikamo backs up.
"And Akaki is staying with me. You are forbidden to see him ever again. I didn't want it to end this
way but I have no say in the matter. Goodbye, my wife"
He turns around and walks away. Washu struggles to move but it was as if her feet were grafted
into the ground.
"No! Please come back! Don't leave me like this!"
She broke down in tears watching her husband walk away holding her baby son. Again she held
out her arms but he was not coming back. Then the sky turns black and the scenery disappears
leaving Washu in a void. An image was now starting to take form in front of Washu. As it takes shape
she instantly recognizes the figure. Now standing in front of her was Dr. Clay, a former competing
scientist. Still in tears but now confused she looks on wondering why he suddenly appeared.
"What the hell do you want? My husband just left with my son! Leave me alone!"
"Actually, Washu, that's why I'm here" Dr. Clay said sinisterly.
Washu just stood in silence waiting for what he had to say.
"Are you not the greatest scientific genius in the universe, Washu? I find it ironic that you couldn't
figure out how to keep your husband and your child with a title like that. It just goes to show that
you are nothing! Your title means nothing to me or any other person existing! The two people that
mattered in your life the most are now gone! Gone Washu! And you know why? Because he thought
you were nothing! In time your son would have realized the same thing. You are nothing Washu! You
will bear this pain for the rest of your life!" Dr. Clay ends with an evil grin then fades from view. Now
shaking Washu falls to her knees and slams the surface with immense force letting out an echo. As she
cries she yells as loud as she could.
"WHY ME? WHY HAVE THE TWO PEOPLE I HAVE LOVED MORE THAN MY OWN LIFE LEFT ME? I CAN'T BEAR THIS LONLINESS!"
She stayed in place crying out loudly in the black void. Rapidly sitting up in her bed she awakens
from her nightmare breathing loudly then starts to let out a small cry sinking her face into her hands.
A moment later she looks out her right eye and sees a lump under the green covers right next to her.
Morien was sleeping soundly letting out a quiet yet still audible breath as he slept. Reality finally came
back as she remembered that there was no need to cry. Almost immediately she transitions from
sadness to happiness as the feeling of loneliness ebbed away. She put her arms around his neck
facing his backside and held on tight which woke up Morien. He felt the pressure of what felt like a hug.
"You're still up?" he asked as he turned around.
Even though it was dark he could see moisture coming out of her eyes but she kept a small
smile on her face.
"Washu, what happened?" he asked now worried.
Rather than explaining she just buried her face right in his chest and embraced him tightly.
"Please don't leave me, Morien. I've spent the last 20,000 years in loneliness and now I have
you and my son who has returned to me. I don't want to bear the pain of being alone again"
It had registered in his head that she just woke up from a bad dream. He held her tightly in
return, letting out a sigh.
"I'm not going anywhere Washu. I'm not tied to any wealthy lineage and if anyone thinks they
are going to separate us they'll have to answer to my fists and my guns. No one deserves to
live alone and no one has the right to separate a couple"
She looks up at him bringing her hands to his face then they kissed for a few seconds. Afterwards
they look at their hands with rings glowing reminding each other of the covenant bond they
made. Morien lies back down and Washu rests her head on his shoulder placing her arm over his
chest. Soon her sadness completely drained away and they both drifted off to very peaceful sleep.
The morning had arrived. In a few minutes the sun would rise over the mountains creating the
canvas for a new day waiting to be painted on. In the living room Vladimir turned his head over
onto what felt like metal plating with a square design. Upon touching with his face it emits cold air
which causes him to open his eyes and see it was the air conditioning vent. He mumbles to himself
for a moment as he sits up on the floor. Rubbing his face he feels abrasion on his chin indicating he
was due for a shave at some point. He then scratches his dark brown hair and slowly stands to his
feet brushing off the sleep spell. Now walking forward he gets about 4 feet before stubbing his toe
on the table between the sofa and the television. A loud yelp went throughout the house followed
by a thud as he falls face first onto the floor.
"What a great day this will be" he said to himself looking towards the direction of the kitchen.
A small giggle was heard from about midway up the stairs and he turns his head to find Sasami
looking down at him amused by his misfortune.
"Yeah, go ahead and laugh" he said in his Russian accent.
"I'm sorry. This type of thing usually doesn't happen this early. Are you okay?"
"I think so. The bleeding will stop momentarily"
"You're bleeding?" she asked concerned.
"No. That was just my sense of humor"
Sasami giggles again appreciating the humor.
"I really thought you were serious"
"You'll find that I do that a lot"
"The humor or the falling down?"
Vladimir thought for a second.
"Both"
Again she giggles.
"So why are you up so early, Princess Sasami?"
Her happy face becomes straight upon hearing that title being called out.
"Umm, how come you called me princess?"
"Are you not a Jurian princess? At least that's what I was filled in with"
"Well, yes but you don't have to call me princess" She smiles again. "I've lived on Earth for so
long I almost forgot where I was from. I'm not on a level above anyone here. I'm just as equa
l as everyone living here"
"My apology. So then how come you're up early, Sasami?"
"This is usually when I wake up to make breakfast for everyone"
"I'm surprised you don't wake up earlier to prepare extra food for the two Saiyins"
Sasami walks into the kitchen with Vladimir following behind.
"Actually, they only eat every 3 or 4 days"
"I see. Otherwise, then, your food bill would go off the chart"
"Not really" Sasami replies. "Russ helps pay for the groceries"
She opens up several cabinets, taking out utensils, pots, and pans to prepare breakfast. Vladimir
noticed that her apron had a large carrot painted on the front.
"So does everyone here work or help out in some way?" He asked.
"Just about. Everyone here does chores or has a job somewhere. Nobuyuki never asked us to do
this but we also try to help him out with the finances in any way we can" she said filling up a pot
with water.
"Hold on a second" Vladimir said leaving the kitchen.
Keeping the same smile on her face Sasami now takes out various food items from the refrigerator
and places them on the island in the center of the kitchen. Taking several vegetables out, she
puts them on a cutting board and cuts them evenly with a knife. This process repeated itself
several times when Vladimir came back with something in his hands.
"Here" he says.
Sasami looks over at him and her eyes open wide. In his hands was a large bundle of money
which looked like it could cover their food costs for at least a year.
"Wait…you don't have to. It's okay, Vladimir, we have that taken care off…."
He walks up to her and puts the money in a pouch in her apron.
"No Sasami. I have never met a family that has treated strangers like they were family. It's
the least I could do. You guys deserve that and a whole lot more"
"But…"
"Enough. Keep it" he said with a grin.
"Thank you so much" she said taken back by his kindness.
"Do you need help with breakfast?"
"I prefer to cook alone. It keeps me concentrated. But thank you though!"
Vladimir now leaves the kitchen, grabs shaving supplies from his back pack, and then
walks to the main floor bathroom. Upstairs everyone was either still asleep or awake but
lying down in bed not wanting to get up. The only sound in the house was Sasami moving
around in the kitchen along with the sound of the metal utensils clanking each other as Sasami
moved them around. In the bathroom, Vladimir sprays half a handful of shaving cream on his
hands then lathers it on his chin and cheeks. In a few minutes he washes off whatever shaving
cream was left on his face then wipes it off with a towel. Now finished he slides open the
bathroom door and walks back to the sofa, this time without stubbing his toe. While waiting for
breakfast he decides to turn on the television and watch the Discovery Channel in Russian again.
Shark week was being displayed to his delight as he always found sea life fascinating. From the
top of the stairs a set of feet covered by black dress shoes began to walk down. Vladimir turns
his head towards the steps and see Nobuyuki in a dark gray suit and yellow tie. In his right hand
was a black leather briefcase.
"Good morning Vladimir"
"Good morning, sir. You look like you're about to gain control over Sony"
Nobuyuki chuckles taking in the interesting compliment.
"Nope, I'm just an architect. Good morning Sasami"
"Hello Nobuyuki. Are you staying for breakfast?"
"I'm afraid not. I have to be at work early today. Several architectural firms here in Japan created
potential designs for a new skyscraper being built in Tokyo. As it turns out, our design was
chosen to be the new building so it's going to be a long day"
"Congrats to you" Vladimir said from the sofa.
"Thank you! Well, I'm off. I may or may not be back tonight so don't burn the house down"
"I'll try not to Nobuyuki" Sasami said with her head down.
"Actually, I was referring to Vladimir"
"Wait, why me?"
"Because you have a sense of humor" he said laughing
"Oh. In that case I can't make any promises" he said grinning
Nobuyuki gave both Vladimir and Sasami a light bow then left his home for what was going
to be a very productive day.
"You know, I'm forgetting something" Vladimir quietly said to himself. "Oh well, I'm sure it
will manifest itself when I need to remember it"
He continues to watch the television. From out of the sea a great white shark has just caught
its unfortunate victim, a seal, in between its razor sharp set of teeth guaranteeing no escape
for the small sea mammal. He pondered the thought in his head, wondering why in some cases
life has to be taken in order for another to live. His thoughts were diverted for a brief moment
when for the second time he heard footsteps coming down from the top of the stairs but he
did not look back. Instead he focused back on the television. Now on the television a group of
scientists were tagging a couple of great white sharks. Out of nowhere a random humpback
whale jumps out of the water and lands on top of the small boat taking all the scientists and
cameramen with it.
"Did that really just happen?" he asked himself. "I suppose that's one way to make a discovery
on the Discovery Channel" he said trying to humor himself.
In the kitchen, pots with boiling water were on all 4 burners as Sasami prepared to place
ingredients inside of each one. Turning around to grab several vegetables she sees familiar face
enter the kitchen.
"Oh, good morning Kiyone"
"Hey Sasami"
Sasami notices that Kiyone had a nervous look on her face and her hands were behind her back.
"Is everything okay, Kiyone?"
"What…oh yeah, everything is fine" she chuckles but Sasami could detect it was partially fake.
She leans her head over and sees Vladimir sitting on the sofa engaged with the television then
looks back at Kiyone. She squints her eyes and with a smug look she looks at Kiyone now fully
aware of what was going on.
"So, how long?"
"How long what?"
"Oh you know. How long have you liked him?"
Kiyone starts to sweat a bit.
"I don't know what you're talking about"
Sasami was not buying it at all. She crossed her arms and kept her same facial expression.
"I think you do know what I'm talking about, Kiyone"
"Sasami…it…it's not like that at all"
Kiyone's voice started to stutter in a bit of nervousness.
"He's right over there, Kiyone. Go talk to him"
"But Sasami I don't know how…I mean I don't think…oh dammit"
"I'm so happy for you Kiyone! You like someone now! Now everyone in this house will have
that significant other!"
"Sasami" Kiyone said in a whisper "Please keep it down"
"What are you waiting for, Kiyone? Go and speak with him. He's very kind. He even gave me
some money for groceries. I'm sure you will like him"
"Sasami, who are you talking to?" Vladimir wondered as he asked from the sofa. He couldn't
make out what she was saying but he thought he heard mumbling from the kitchen. Kiyone
was now very nervous. She could feel a swelling feeling in her stomach trying to keep calm.
"Oh no one Vladimir" she turns to Kiyone again "This is your chance Kiyone. You know you
want to. No one wants to go throughout life without someone to be with"
"What am I going to say? How's the weather? I'm a nervous wreck just thinking about it. I know
I'm going to mess this up" Kiyone puts one hand on her face thinking about all the things that
could go wrong.
"Kiyone, he's also pretty funny. Even if you do make a mistake he's not going to judge you.
Especially someone that looks like you. Now go. Go surprise everyone in the house"
With that Sasami turned back to making breakfast leaving Kiyone on her own. She peeked
out from the kitchen watching Vladimir gazing at the television. His facial expressions changed
constantly as he was now watching a show about how NATO was training blue whales to destroy
Somali pirates. She takes a deep breath and slowly walks towards the living room.
"What is this world coming to? The concept is interesting but you can't train a whale to sink a
small boat. It happens a lot by accident but I don't think this can be achieved" he told himself
in his head. "What's next? Sending trees to the sun?"
"Uh…hi?"
Vladimir turns his head and freezes. His eyes now gazing into beautiful blue eyes; he remembers
what he forgot. Now just a few feet away Kiyone stood looking back at him with a plain green
t-shirt and gray sweat pants as well as her deep orange headband. He could tell she was nervous
which brought relief because he was slightly nervous as well. Everything he had talked about
during his training flight was now coming down to this moment. He built up his courage.
"Hello"
"Nice weather we're having…GAAAH!"
Vladimir raised an eyebrow finding it funny her nervousness was already leading her to making mistakes.
"Did I really just ask that? Ugh!"
She was about to retreat upstairs when he stopped her.
"Wait!"
She stops in her tracks then looks down still embarrassed at her attempt to break the ice.
"It's okay. There's…there's an open spot…right here!"
He points to a spot on the sofa indicating he wanted her to sit next to him. She still hesitated.
"I don't bite…unless you try to kill me or something like that"
She finally got a small smile to come to her face. Still timid she walks over and sits next to him on
the sofa letting out a hiss as the sofa was pressed downwards. They now both look at each other in
the eye with the same timid look.
"I'm…Vladimir"
He slowly extends his hand to shake hers.
"Kiyone" she takes his hand and returns the shake.
He could feel her trembling as he shook her hand.
"There's no need to be nervous. If anything I'm the one who should be shaking"
"Why do you say that?"
"Because I'm the guy. Isn't there a protocol?"
"No. Remember, women have feelings too. I'm very good at not hiding them"
"I can tell"
Kiyone was surprised at how quickly she was able to find time to talk to him. She thought she would
never get the chance considering how intimidated she was by his appearance. He was very good
looking and she found it odd that she had no qualms about getting in the line of fire and arresting any
man who broke the law but now that she was exposed to a man who was not a law breaker and a
pilot like herself and possibly interested in her she couldn't control her timid feelings.
"I'm sorry but it's going to be a while before I overcome my nervousness" she said.
"If it makes you feel better I was shaky in the beginning"
"Yeah until I made that lame-ass statement"
"I found that kind of funny. But most men like that actually. It's…adorable for lack of a better term"
She blushes and tries to hide it by hiding her face in her arms but gives up. She speaks again.
"So from what I heard, you're a pilot as well?"
"Yes. I'm the first fighter pilot for my division, Spetsnaz. Well, actually let me rephrase. It's commander
Asagiri then Alex and I are her wingmen. We have zero mission fails"
"That's quite impressive"
"And what do you fly?"
"It's called the Yagami. It's a spacecraft that is part of the Galaxy Police"
"Galaxy Police?"
"It's a galactic wide police force that patrols the entire Milky Way Galaxy"
Vladimir was in shock.
"You're one of the space people?"
"Is that what they're calling us now? But yeah I am"
On the television, the Russian Discovery Channel was now showing Cash Cab. The host was being
mugged after turning into a dark alley from making a wrong turn.
"So yeah, Kiyone, I'm still in amazement that I'm finally talking to you"
"The feeling is mutual"
"I was wondering. I know it's a bit early but did you want to umm…like…go to the city sometime?
Maybe grab a bite to eat…as friends?"
Now she smiled and most of her timid feelings drained out.
"Of course. In fact we are leaving for Tom's ship tomorrow morning so we could explore
it if you want to"
"You're not on call or anything?"
"Thank Tsunami no! Mihoshi and I have the next 6 days off and it's with paid vacation. Thank
you Russ for that"
From under the table a furry cat and rabbit hybrid made herself appear. Vladimir catches the
movement and looks down.
"What kind of animal is this?" he asked very intrigued.
"This is Ryo-Ohki. She's our ride to Tom's ship tomorrow"
"Wait what? How?"
Kiyone chuckled knowing that Vladimir was about to crap a few bricks upon hearing about Ryo-Ohki.
"Ryo-Ohki is what we call a cabbit; half rabbit and half cat. She also transforms into a massive
spiky spaceship complete with weapons and high speed. She belongs to Ryoko."
Unable to say anything, Vladimir looks down at Ryo-Ohki with a look of disbelief in his eyes
causing Kiyone to laugh lightly.
"Now I know what Morien must have felt like when this was all being explained to him"
"Well once you're part of the family nothing is ever normal again"
"Me'ow, me'ow" Ryo-Ohki started to blurt out looking up towards the top of the stairs.
"What is it, little furry one?" Vladimir asked who then looked in the direction Ryo-Ohki was
looking. Once again he froze in his tracks and his nervousness returned; dark brown eyes
wide open. Kiyone looked at him wondering what he was looking at. She looks the same direction
and now has the exact same look as Vladimir. Both started to sweat. From the top of the stairs
everyone who was sleeping was now awake and looking down at them. Tenchi, Ryoko, Russ,
Ayeka, Zorpheus, and Mihoshi looked at the two on the sofa with big smiles and eyes open wide
as well as they leaned on the railing. It almost looked like they were glaring with smiles.
"Nothing happened" Kiyone stated.
"It's about time!" Ryoko replied. "I had suspected something but I didn't think it would be this soon"
"But like Kiyone said, nothing happened. We just talked"
"That's how it always starts then it only gets better from there" Ayeka said giving her input.
Now all 6 of them begin to walk down the stairs. Unknown to Kiyone or Vladimir Sasami was
also watching from the kitchen but once Ryoko spoke she resumed making breakfast. Russ and
Zorpheus bid Ayeka and Mihoshi goodbye both with a kiss and head outside to train. Kiyone
watched not feeling as envious as she usually did. Once the two Saiyins leave Tenchi, Ryoko,
Ayeka, and Mihoshi take spots in the living room. On the television the host of Cash Cab was
now being tied to a wheel strut of a large commercial jet and the taxi van was completely gutted.
"Is it true then Kiyone? Are you finally in love?" Mihoshi asked very bubbly.
"No Mihoshi. Not love. We're just friends right now" she stated slightly vexed.
"Uh huh" Ryoko smugly said.
"It's true silver girl. We just talked" Vladimir tried to defend his case.
"Whoa wait a second…who's silver girl?" Ryoko asked confused.
"I'm sorry but I forgot your name. A name was brought up in our conversation but I couldn't
match the face to it. In fact….I kind of forgot everyone else's name except Sasami" Vladimir
said hanging his head.
Everyone else just chuckled heartily and introduced themselves. Then they got back to the
topic at hand for a few minutes bantering with Vladimir and Kiyone who kept insisting they
just talked and nothing more while everyone played it off as if that was not the case. Then
a call from the kitchen.
"Hey guys. Breakfast is just about ready" Sasami said with her same smile that made
anyone happy looking at it.
"Are Morien and Washu still sleeping?" Ayeka asked
"It looks like it. I'll go get them" Tenchi replied.
He waited for the orange door to appear then opening it, he walks in. It was still dark in
Washu's lab indicating no one had been in it for a while. A few computers were shedding
light but the overhead lamps were still off. Tenchi walks towards the direction of where
Washu's room was and sees the door is open. Peeking inside, Morien and Washu are still in
the bed. Morien was lying face up with Washu still sleeping with her head on his chest. A smile
came upon Tenchi's face as they both looked very comfortable and in love. Morien slowly
opens his eyes and looks over at Tenchi. He nods at Tenchi.
"Hey" Morien said quietly.
"Good morning. Breakfast is ready"
"I would go but she had a nightmare and she's still a bit shaken from it so I'm going to
stay here and comfort her. You guys start without us"
"Okay, I guess" Tenchi said with a worried look.
Now back in the living room Tenchi walks to the dining room where everyone was waiting.
Their happy faces turned into concern when they see his face.
"What's wrong dear" Ryoko asked.
"It's…Washu. Something happened to her last night; a nightmare Morien said. He said he
was going to stay and comfort her"
Everyone was quiet for a moment, looking down at the table in front of them. Without
saying a word each person walks in single file, with Ryoko leading, back into Washu's lab.
She sees the open door and everyone slowly takes a look inside. Morien opens his eyes
again and is very surprised to see everyone standing there. With a wave of his hand he
indicates for everyone to walk in.
"Washu, I think you have a few visitors" he whispered to her.
Now Washu opened her eyes and sat up to see Ryoko, Tenchi, Ayeka, Mihoshi, Kiyone,
and Vladimir all looking at her concerned.
"What…what's going on?" Washu asked surprised
"We heard you had a bad dream so we came to check on you" Tenchi replied.
"Thanks but I'm fine guys, really"
"Washu, you're family. You are not alone in this. We are here for you and each other" Tenchi
said firmly.
Washu began to form tears in her eyes but they were joyous. She was overjoyed knowing
and remembering that she had Morien, the entire family that lived under the Masaki roof,
and her son, Akaki.
"Thank you so much everyone. The nightmare I had almost convinced me I was alone again
but I have all of you here for reassurance so thank you" Washu said.
She stood up out of bed and everyone gave her a group hug.
"Now this is a true family" Morien said watching from his bed. "Anyways, thanks you guys!
This is really amazing what you all did. Give us a few minutes and Washu and I will be out
for breakfast"
They all nodded in approval in his direction and left Washu and Morien behind. In just a few
minutes, while still in their sleep attire, they leave Washu's room and head for the subspace
exit. In front of them they see Kanta and Junko already on their way.
"Who's that asshole up there?" Morien yells then snickers.
Junko begins to laugh and Kanta flashes him his middle finger.
"Fingerpaintings, what a surprise" Kanta says with a straight face.
"That was a spur of the moment situation. Couldn't think of anything else to say"
Kanta just rolled his eyes. He stopped caring about insults since he knew that he himself
was cold hearted individual. He made exceptions around the Masaki family and Junko but
everyone else was fair game.
"So no Alexander this morning?" Morien asked.
"No. He's staying with his wife for the rest of the day. Apparently he told her that tomorrow
he was being sent on a mission that was to be shrouded in total secrecy. Of course that
means he's coming with us to visit Tom on his ship" Junko explains.
"We've said it before and we'll say it again: you guys are in for quite the surprise" Washu
states "I thought I had seen it all in the last 20,000 years but then Tom and the Gray Wolf
come along and raise the standard in space travel"
The 4 individuals reach the subspace door and enter the Masaki living room.
"Is the Gray Wolf comparable to a cruise ship here on Earth?" Morien wondered.
"I'm not sure. I've never been on one before. I'm always stuck in my lab. You're the only
one who knows how to get me out of my lab, my dear husband"
Morien grins then puts his arm around Washu's neck as they walk into the dining room.
"I sure as hell would hope that I know how to do that. Today's is going to be an interesting
day. It's either going to be fun or I might be in a hospital by the time it's over"
Washu raised an eyebrow then looked at him.
"Why do you say that?"
"Because I'm continuing my training with Russ today. I think Zorpheus is going to be there as
well. Taking on one Saiyin was hard enough but now I might have to put up with two"
They arrive at the dining room table. Like usual the people sitting at the table waited for
Morien and Washu to arrive but were more patient given the circumstances. Once Morien
sits down he notices that Kanta and Junko are not there.
"Washu, weren't they just behind us like seconds ago?" he asks sitting down in an open
spot between Vladimir and Ayeka.
"You know those two. An enigma until the end"
"Oh well. Their loss" he said eyeing the food on the table which looked better than any
gourmet chef creation. Sasami was bringing one more food item to the table while everyone
waited. Morien turns his head to his right.
"Morning, comrade. Sleep well?"
"I slept alright. Waking up was probably the most difficult thing I did today and it's not
even noon" Vladimir replies.
Morien now takes note that Kiyone is sitting next to him.
"Looks like you finally got around to it, huh" Morien says quietly
Vladimir looks at Morien strangely but within a few seconds he sees what he meant.
"Oh. We just talked…finally"
"Very nice. I thought it would have taken you years to build confidence to even say hello"
Kiyone catches on to the conversation.
"You know I can hear you two"
"So…Vladimir, nice weather we're having eh?"
"It's okay Morien. You should have seen it this morning. Everyone caught us talking to each
other thinking were in some relationship" Kiyone explains to him.
"Aww…Kiyone is in love!" Mihoshi blurts out.
Kiyone's veins start bulging out of her head.
"Mihoshi! How many times do I have to say we're not a couple or in love? We're just friends!"
"Are you two normally like this?" Vladimir asks.
Mihoshi just giggles while Kiyone rubs her temple trying to ease the stress out of herself.
Sasami came back from the kitchen with the last bowl of miso soup. With that breakfast started.
Even though Russ and Zorpheus were not there Sasami made extra food incase they wanted
to snack which they often did. 45 minutes passed when breakfast was over. Everyone helped
with cleaning and putting dishes away. Once finished Morien walks outside in black and red digital
camo military pants and a plain white sleeveless shirt ready to continue to train under Russ and
possibly Zorpheus as well. He stops and takes in the scenery from the deck. The sky was partially
cloudy but the temperature was a pleasant 79 degrees. The surrounding forest was very inviting as
the wave of green moved slightly in the light breeze. Beyond the forest were the mountains and on
one of the peaks Morien sights two dots constantly moving into each other; Russ and Zorpheus.
"Once again, here goes nothing" Morien says to himself then with his speed begins to make his way over.
On the top of a nameless mountain the conditions were anything but pleasant. The thin cold air would
drive just about anyone away but it's where Russ and Zorpheus are seen engaged in combat sharpening
their skills. Their movements break the sound barrier creating a sonic boom each time. Zorpheus rushes
towards Russ with a multi-fist attack similar to that of from street fighter. He was just inches from Russ's
face each time but Russ dodges all of them. Now taking his turn Russ fires an energy blast but rather
than swatting it away or dodging Zorpheus flies straight forward towards Russ. Zorpheus knew Russ was
going to dodge left or right. It was a 50-50 chance. Zorpheus decides to go with his left and throws out
an elbow jab. Luck was with him in that instant. It hits Russ on the left cheek and he is sent back about
100 feet but recovers as if it never happened and goes back on the offense. Russ flies to just 10 feet in
front of Zorpheus then vanishes from view. Zorpheus concentrates trying to figure out where Russ was
going to appear from. Feeling his energy Zorpheus begins to turn around to get into a defensive stance
but only makes it about halfway before Russ hits him in the back with a double-axe-handle blow sending
Zorpheus towards the ground. Zorpheus was moving too fast to stop himself from hitting the mountainside
so he braced himself for impact. To his surprise, halfway from hitting the mountain, he feels a hand grab
his ankle and was now traveling upwards again.
"Need a little help?" Morien said with a smirk.
Morien hurls Zorpheus upwards towards Russ with immense speed. It happened so fast Russ didn't see
Morien approaching and like Saiyin bullet Zorpheus strikes Russ in the chin with his head. Russ was now
hurling skyward reaching an altitude of around 47,000 feet before stopping. Not enjoying the below zero
temperatures that came with the height Russ quickly flies down to a much warmer altitude. On the side
of the mountain Morien and Zorpheus wait for Russ to return.
"You're speed is incredible, dude! I didn't even feel your energy before you interfered!" Zorpheus exclaimed.
"Oh come on. Interfered? I was helping my fellow man!" Morien said grinning. "Of course I'm sure Russ
is about to kick my ass all over this mountain"
"Nah. He's a good trainer. He won't give you more than you can handle unless you really get on his
nerves but that's a rare occurrence. I think I see him now"
Zorpheus catches Russ approaching quite fast. Soon he sets both feet on the mountainside in front
of both Zorpheus and Morien.
"At least I know now I don't have to teach you to be stealthy" Russ said. "That was quite the sneak
attack, using someone else's body as a projectile. It's been a long time since I've seen that. Anyways
welcome to the continuation of your training"
"I have a feeling I'm going to be in for it today" Morien grunted.
"Actually, we're taking a different route today. Rather than fighting I'm going to teach you a basic skill.
I'm going to train you to raise your power level. If you ever want to get stronger you need to learn
this simple but essential skill" Russ explained.
"Alright. How do I do that?"
Russ walks closer until he is about 5 feet in front of Morien.
"It takes concentration. Since this is your first time it will require a lot but the more you do this the
easier it becomes. Close your eyes and clear your mind first"
Shutting his eyes, Morien attempts to drain his thoughts from his head. Suddenly an image of Washu
nude in the Onsen with him comes to mind. He smiles but Russ starts to sweatdrop since he could
read minds.
"Uh dude, can you please concentrate? I really didn't want to see that"
Morien opens his eyes.
"What do you mean?"
"I…can read minds" Russ replied.
"Oh shit. Sorry you saw my wife naked"
"Enough! Back to the task at hand!" Russ facepalms for a few seconds then continues to
watch as Morien continues to drain his thoughts. Soon Russ reads Morien's mind and sees
it is clear.
"Good. Now imagine yourself flexing your muscles but in your mind. You need to have the
feeling like you want to flex but don't actually do it" Russ teaches.
"Ok. I'll try"
With clenched fists Morien closes his eyes again and attempts to do what Russ taught him.
Several minutes go by and Morien feels nothing.
"It doesn't seem to be working, Russ"
"Just keep going. It's not going to be instant the first time"
Morien continues. Several more minutes go by but this time the small pebbles around Morien's
feet start to rise upwards.
"Looks like he's got it" Zorpheus said.
Russ held out his right hand towards Zorpheus indicating for him to remain silent. Morien opens
his eyes and sees the small rocks now floating in the air in front of him
"So this is what powering up feels like. I like it"
"Practice this often. It's a skill that will save your ass a lot" Russ said. "Well, now that you know
how to power up, it's time to sit back and watch"
"What?" Morien asked confused
Russ and Zorpheus both sat on a boulder nearby watching the sky above Morien.
"What are you two doing?"
Morien looks up in the air but sees nothing.
"Great. This better not be a patience test" he grumbled.
Morien's answer came in the form of a fist. A flash of purple appeared from behind and struck
him in the back of the head sending him several feet into the mountainside creating a crater.
He recovers and standing in his place was Ayeka in a purple sleeveless training kimono. Her hair
was tied back into a long braided ponytail.
"Russ, what the hell is going on?" Morien asked with a trace of apprehension.
"I've lived here now for over a year. During that time I've been training Ayeka, Ryoko, and Tenchi
to become stronger and let me tell you: they've improved a lot in just a year!"
"So if I was a betting man I would bet that for my next test I have to fight Ayeka" Morien said.
"You would only be 1/3 correct, Morien" Russ said with a grin.
"What do you mean?"
Another blur, this time red, comes from out of the air and appears as Ryoko who stands on another
boulder. She was in her half red and half black battle attire. Not long after Tenchi is seen quickly making
his way over to the scene in Jurian battle attire. The hilt of his lighthawk sword was in his right hand.
Once he took his place on the rocks Russ spoke.
"Okay. Now that all 4 of you are here, this is what's going on. As they say in professional wrestling
this is what I like to call a Fatal-4-Way. Every man, and woman, for themselves. I want you guys to
put your training to the test. Don't kill each other though. Zorpheus and myself will be watching from
right here. Whenever you are ready, go!"
Each opponent looked at each other with determined looks. Ayeka looked straight ahead at Morien,
then Ryoko to her right, and Tenchi to her left. Everyone else did similar actions. They stare at each
for a few minutes in silence waiting for the first move to be made. The cold mountain air was now blowing
just above a typical breeze. Morien raised his fist up in the air causing Ryoko, Ayeka, and Tenchi to take
battle stances. Rather than lunging forward, he slams his fist into the rocky terrain instantly breaking
the ground under Ayeka and Tenchi's feet which resulted in them jumping into the air. With that Tenchi
swung his sword overhead to strike the Juraian princess but she easily blocks it with her shields. Back
on the mountain side Morien is now left with Ryoko but when he looks over at the boulder she is not
there. Now he feels something grab his ankle and continuously slams him into the ground like an angry
drunk man who slams a small dog into the concrete. He tries to escape Ryoko's grip but she has quite a
hold on him. With his loose leg he kicks her face causing her to release him. Suddenly she races forward
and machine gun punches him in the face multiple times. The impact on his face was comparable to being
hit by a sledge hammer. In response he grabs both of her wrists and head butts her multiple times then
with an overhead kick she slams into the ground breaking the rocks all around. Tenchi comes back down
on the ground with Ayeka pursuing. She fires multiple yellow energy blasts but Tenchi swats each of them
away using his blue energy sword like a baseball bat. Meanwhile back on a boulder in the distance Russ
and Zorpheus look on enjoying the performance.
"So, want to make bets?" Zorpheus asked.
"I'd rather not. Let's just watch and enjoy" Russ responded
"Who do you think has the upper hand?"
"Well all of their energy levels seem about even from what I'm feeling. Don't you think so?"
Zorpheus tries to detect each of their energy levels as they continue to battle each other.
"Yeah, actually they do all seem pretty even at the moment. You did train them to increase their energy
right? Even Tenchi?"
"Sure did, Zorph. That aspect should make this battle very interesting" Russ replied.
With shields up at a high level Ayeka advances towards Tenchi. Taking a few steps back he tries to
anticipate the next attack which would be delayed for a bit as Ryoko now stands in between Tenchi
and Ayeka.
"Ryoko this is just a training exercise" Tenchi says.
"I don't care! I'm not going to fight you, Tenchi. Not after everything you've done for me"
Before Ryoko makes a move, Morien jumps over both of them and now aims for Ayeka but he is
unaware of her shield until it's too late. He hits it like an insect into a bug-zapper and is shot up
into the air.
"Well it looks like he's out" Ryoko says looking at Morien becoming smaller as he goes higher.
"I don't want this to be 2 on one, Ryoko"
"It's alright Tenchi" Ayeka says. "I can take on both of you" she says with a smirk
"Oh it's like that is it, princess?" Ryoko responds. "Let's do this, Tenchi"
Even though he was against fighting against Ayeka, he stands by Ryoko's side and they both
begin an offense. Ayeka increases the power of her shield while Ryoko fires orange energy blasts
at her while flying towards her. After seeing what the shield did to Morien she did not want to
touch it.
"C'mon princess! Play fair and fight us!" Ryoko yelled out.
"Are you sure about that, Ryoko?" Ayeka asked.
"Yes…I think"
"Alright then"
Ayeka lifted her right arm into the air. Her shield now lifted from the ground while she stayed in
place. She was standing outside of her shield holding it over her head like it Goku's spirit bomb.
"This is new" Ryoko said.
Using the shield as an offensive weapon she fires it forward in the direction of Ryoko and Tenchi.
Tenchi holds out his lighthawk sword in an attempt to deflect it while Ryoko continues to fire energy
blasts which are deflected as the shield was coming upon them. It hits the lighthawk sword which
stops the advance but Tenchi struggles to keep it in place. He starts to slide backwards as the shield
pushes forwards. Ryoko's eyes turn completely black as her energy increases. Now at a much higher
level than the shield she simply walks to it and gives it a backhand swatting it back towards Ayeka
who in turns hits it right back towards Ryoko. This time it was Tenchi who swings hard and the shield
is again heading back towards Ayeka. Like a beach ball the shield was bounced back and forward
between Ayeka, Tenchi, and Ryoko.
"Oh come on. Now they're just playing around!" Russ complained.
"I find it amusing…say Russ do you feel that?"
Russ concentrated for a moment and felt a strange building energy from up in the air. He looks up
and spots Morien coming back down. In a Superman dive he aims for the 3 combatants a few thousand
feet below him. Russ started to become concerned.
"Zorpheus, there's something different about him!"
"I agree. Should we stop him?"
"Hold on"
In front of Morien's fists was a pendulum blade created from pure energy. Russ concentrated on it for
a second and felt an overwhelming amount of power.
"He could kill all of them with that attack! Get out of there you guys!"
The 3 stop with confused looks. Then Ryoko looks up and sees a massive blade coming down in their
direction.
"What the hell?"
Russ jumps from the boulder and flies directly above them trying to stop Morien but it was too late.
At the last second Russ uses his instant transmission in order to save Tenchi, Ryoko, and Ayeka. Morien
strikes the mountain close to the summit. Back at the Masaki home Kiyone, Sasami, Mihoshi, and
Vladimir were watching Cash Cab on the television. A white flash suddenly covers the inside of the home
with a blinding light. Everyone gasps expecting the worse. Even Washu ran from her lab as an alarm
sounded from inside.
"Washu, what's happening?" Sasami asked scared.
"I don't know, Sasami!" she responds.
Washu looks out the window and sees a blue mushroom cloud where several mountains used to stand.
"Morien…it's happening" Washu said to herself.
The training ground was nothing more than a deep crater in the ground. A few of the surrounding
mountains were now completely gone. With a shield of his own, Russ floats down to solid ground
holding Tenchi, Ryoko, and Ayeka in place then sets them down.
"Russ, what was that?" Ayeka asked concerned.
"I'm about to go find out. Wait here"
Russ flies down into the crater where Morien landed. Morien sits up holding his head. He was dizzy
and had a headache from the impact. As he tries to focus his vision Russ lands right in front of him.
"What…the…hell…was that?" He asked firmly.
"The attack? I was just powering up like you taught me and a random blade appeared in front of my
fists. It wasn't what I expected but I went with it" Morien responds.
"Morien, there was something else. As I concentrated on that attack I could feel Washu's energy. It
was almost as if she was right there with you"
"Ok, now you're just creeping me out"
"I'm just saying what I felt. What did you feel exactly?"
"As I readied that attack it felt like I was staring down the scope of a sniper rifle. I could only see
my target and nothing else around"
"If that's the case you learn very quickly" Russ said.
"I suppose. I'm sure whatever happened; it's nothing to be concerned about"
"I'll be the judge of that. Training's over. You did exceptionally well, nevertheless"
Both Morien and Russ walk out of the crater and meet up with Tenchi, Ryoko, Ayeka, and Zorpheus.
"You scared the crap out of us for a second" Ryoko stated.
"I was just training like you guys were" Morien replies
"Training or trying to kill us?" Ryoko joked.
Everyone who fought had scratches and holes their fighting attire. As they made their way back home
they see everyone who was inside the house now standing outside still wondering where the explosion
came from. Russ, Zorpheus, and everyone else made their way on the deck and faced the group
standing by the door.
"Where were you guys?" Sasami asked
"Roller-skating" Morien responds.
"We're you roller-skating in a mine field?" asked Mihoshi.
"It was a joke, Mihoshi. Seriously, what happened to you guys?" Kiyone now asked.
"They were training, Kiyone. That explosion was part of the training" Russ explained.
Washu looks at her husband with a serious facial expression. There was more to that explosion then
anyone there realized, even Morien himself.
"Well, the important thing is that you all came back in one piece" Washu says. "Just try to keep this
planet intact please"
"Yeah I know" Morien says.
"Are you sure about that?" Washu says speaking to him telepathically.
"Okay so I don't" he responded back with his mind. "Anything I need to worry about?"
"Let's just say I'm glad you're on our side. When the time comes we are going to need all the help
we can get so no. I'm glad this new power of yours is coming to light"
"What new power? And what time are you talking about?"
"It will all be explained at the right time, Morien. For now just continue to train with Russ and the others"
Washu finishes speaking to him with her mind.
"Well, if we're done here I have lab work I need to finish"
Washu walks back into the house with everyone else following behind. At a shrine perched above the
level of the Masaki home, a Shinto priest looks out towards where the explosion came from. Part of the
dust cloud is still lingering in the air blowing towards the sea. There was now a large void in the mountain
range. He adjusts his glasses as he watches.
"So now there are 3 of them" he says to himself. "It's amazing how the closer we get to what could be
doomsday the more allies come to our side. Every battle that has taken place has revolved around Tenchi
in one way or another. Not to mention Tenchi's training has improved significantly. I have the utmost
confidence in Tenchi, Ayeka, and Ryoko"
It was now evening. Everyone had already eaten dinner and were tending to their own business. A soap
opera was on the television as Ayeka, Ryoko, Mihoshi, Kiyone, Sasami, and Washu watched. In Washu's lab,
Morien sat on a holographic chair in front of her main computer. Washu had taught him how to use it in
case he wanted to use the internet in which this case he did. The large computer screen lit up displaying
the internet browser.
"Ok…email…" he said to himself.
In a few short seconds his email account shows the recent emails he received. Only one of them caught
his attention. It was from his brother, Mordecai. Clicking on the link he opens the email.
"Hey bro! Or should I say guardian? Hahaha! Anyways, what the hell man? I never hear from ya anymore!
I'm doing great. I just got promoted to vice president of Echelon Electronics. You might think work is more
demanding but I find that I have more free time so if you're ever back in the states give let me know.
Love ya bro!"
Morien chuckles at the email and was about to respond when the screen flashed "incoming message."
"Hmm, I suppose I'll get it and let them know she's busy"
Morien allows the message to come through and on the computer screen, an image of a blonde short
haired man who looked quite young and eyes that matched Washu's eyes, is displayed.
"Oh, hello. Not exactly who I was expecting. Is Washu around?"
"She is but she isn't. What's your name?"
"I'm Akaki"
Upon hearing that name, Morien stops knowing full well who he's talking to.
"Akaki you say?"
"Yes sir"
"Umm…well I'm not sure what to say other than…hello my stepson"
Now Akaki opened both eyes very wide upon hearing those words.
"What? Stepson?"
"Washu didn't tell you did she?"
"Who are you?"
"I'm Morien, Washu's husband"
Akaki gazed at Morien in disbelief.
"My mother never wanted to re-marry. Is this some kind of joke?"
"Akaki, 20,000 years ago you were taken from Washu due to the social status of your real father.
Yes I know Washu intended on never remarrying but as fate would have it I came along and turned
her views on themselves"
"You're going to have to do better than that"
"We got married at a temple in the center of the Andromeda Galaxy"
Morien holds up his hand showing Akaki the ring on his finger. Akaki recognizes the symbols on the
ring and was aware it was a place where beings of high power go to become bonded in marriage.
"You're got to be kidding me. She really did remarry!"
"I wouldn't lie to you"
"So now I have a stepfather as well?"
"It would seem that way. You know, you have Washu's eyes. It's not hard to tell you are her son.
That must also mean you have her genius traits"
"I wish I did. I'm into science and such but I'm nowhere near my mother's level. I'm not even sure
if that's possible"
"You may want to hit the books harder"
"How did you convince my mother to remarry?"
"I didn't. Once we met she flat out said she was done being alone and wanted another chance at
being loved. So here we are"
Morien looks behind Akaki and sees a brown acoustic guitar hanging on the wall.
"Nice guitar. How good are you?"
Akaki turns around and looks at the guitar then back at the screen.
"Oh that old thing. Yeah, I play. I wouldn't say I'm good though"
"That usually means you're pretty good"
"Do you play, Morien?"
"Yes and I love it. Nothing like a good metal riff!"
"You like metal too? See, my mom is not fond of it at all. We had a conversation about it once and
I couldn't convince her to give it a chance"
"I like you already. We need to have a jam session at some point!"
"I haven't jammed forever. That sounds like it would be fun. I don't know the next time I'll be there
though. Is there a way I can add you to my contact list?"
"I have email?"
"You still use email? No offense but email is obsolete over here. Tell you what, I'll just have my mom
come get you when I want to contact you"
"That or I can just create an account on her computer. It can't be that difficult"
"Either or. But yeah wow. I have a stepfather now. And he plays guitar"
"How do you think I felt when I found out I had a stepson, Akaki?"
"I can imagine.. So my mother is busy then?"
"She's watching a soap opera with the girls. You know how much they love their soap operas"
"That I do. I'm going to get back to my research. It was very nice meeting you. We will catch up
soon. I still can't believe this!"
"It was nice meeting you as well. Until next time, rock out!"
Morien gives him the metal horns symbol with his hands and Akaki does it right back. Then
the screen goes black.
"Well he seems nice"
Morien turns around to find Kanta alone in the lab.
"Oh. Where have you been all day?"
"Over the hills and far away. Listen, Morien…and yes I called you Morien…there's something
we need to talk about"
"I'm listening"
Kanta walks closer until is just a few feet from Morien.
"I'm not sure if you've felt this yet but I think something evil and destructive is coming"
"What makes you say that?"
"Every time I get a feeling like this it always becomes a reality. Remember the Windy City
Campaign? You didn't believe me at first"
"So say there is something coming…what is it?"
"Something powerful. Something you may not be able to handle. I hate to say it but I won't
be able to help you if this does happen. I'll try to do whatever I can behind the scenes but it's
coming. It's going to get ugly"
"Is there any way of finding out before it comes?"
"That would be Washu's department"
"Did you just get this feeling now, that some apocalyptic force was on its way?"
"I've thought about it for a while but once I was sure I decided to come tell you. For now just
keep this between us. I'm sure there are a few others that know"
"Shouldn't we tell…."
"No, Morien. Keep this between us. Besides let's just enjoy ourselves while we still can. I'm
going to your place. Junko is having a party in the tub and I'm the only one invited" he said
running towards the door that lead to Morien's condo in Germany.
"He'll never change" Morien said to himself. "It's a bit early but tomorrow is the big day. I should
hit the sack now"
Morien walks to Washu's room and pulls his shirt off then gets under the covers, drifting off to
sleep in just a few minutes.
Back in the house the soap opera was done and everyone had gone to go pack or sleep except
Vladimir and Kiyone who sat on the couch watching the Russian Discovery Channel again.
"I don't understand a single word" Kiyone said
"Can you understand CNN, at least?"
She nods. He changes the channel to the news which actually puts him to sleep quickly. Kiyone
lowers the volume still watching the television. About 20 minutes later she also falls asleep in place.
Her body slouches to the left; her head lands on Vladimir's shoulder. Both of them were now snoring
loudly making an interesting scene on the sofa. The same Shinto priest from the shrine enters the
home and the first thing he sees is Kiyone and Vladimir passed out on the sofa with the television
still on. He raises an eyebrow then smiles walking over to the TV shutting it off.
End of Chapter 5