Chapter Eight
Well, so this was it.
Kane leant up against the wall of the train station, glancing at his watch as he ran over in his mind the phone call the previous night. Part of him almost felt guilty in tricking his former friend so blatantly, and yet, when he remembered the files that Ishida and his son had shown him, his resolve hardened.
"Masaki's mixed up in this somehow. He might be being duped, or controlled, or God knows what." He decided with a sigh. "And in that case, doing this might protect him, in the long run. If Kenichi's dad is right and this is all building up to some kind of invasion from this Jurai..."
He shook his head, rubbing his temples as he fought to clear his mind. Overhead, the sky was clear and blue, and in such a bright, normal atmosphere it was hard to imagine that anything could be looming on the horizon.
"But that Tennan man already proved how easily they can walk all over us. Even with the nuclear arms the Earth has, can we even begin to match up to something like that?" He wondered helplessly. "All we can do is try and find out their weaknesses...and somehow, prove to them that this planet isn't going to roll over and just die."
"Kyoda!"
At the sound of his friend's voice, Kane turned, offering a faint smile as he saw Tenchi crossing the foyer towards him, raising his hand in a wave as he did so. He pushed back the doors, stepping into the sunlight with a rueful grin on his face.
"Well, here we are." He said frankly. "Do we still have a truce?"
"We do." Kane gathered his resolve, nodding his head. "And I'm glad we can do this. Truth is, a lot of weird things have happened in Osaka this last few months. And it would suck if we let them stop us from being on speaking terms."
"I agree one hundred percent." Tenchi nodded.
"You...Ryoko-san isn't with you, is she?"
"No." Tenchi shook his head. "She understood that this was between you and I. Besides, she doesn't want us fighting any more than I do. I think she knows it bothers me, being at odds with people...in any case, she's not going to be coming on this little trip this morning."
"Good to know." Kane sighed, relief in his gaze. "I'm still not totally sure I'm comfortable around her. Yet."
"That's all right." Tenchi spread his hands. "I think she understands that, too."
Kane nodded slowly, and for a moment the two men walked in silence.
"I'm kinda surprised you're still in Osaka, actually." It was Tenchi who broke the silence. "I thought you intended on going to the capital after graduation?"
"Yes, and I still do. But a friend of mine is around these parts and I might be getting a job with his father's company." Kane said vaguely. "It's a good position, and I can't really turn it down. So for now, I'm staying here - although the chances are that I'll wind up travelling some, too."
"Oh. Congratulations." Tenchi grinned. "That's the hardest part, isn't it? Finding something after the exams are done."
"Tell me about it." Kane agreed ruefully. "What about you, Masaki-kun? Are you just going back to the shrine in the mountains to be a priest?"
"I...don't think so." Tenchi rubbed his chin. "I have...well, I don't know, yet, for sure. But ever since Ryoko's been here, she's been working as a liason between Jurai and the Earth. And I suspect that that's what I'll be doing from hereon in. After all, I have more connections with Jurai than most people do these days...that's my suspicion, anyway."
"Jurai, huh?" Kane's heart skipped a beat at the casual mention of the planet he was investigating, and he swallowed hard. "Is that Ryoko-san's planet, or...?"
"Not really." Tenchi looked surprised. "I mean, yes and no. She has family there, but I wouldn't say she was from Jurai, exactly. But I thought you weren't comfortable with all this alien stuff, Kyoda - you don't have to humour me. It's fine - I don't mind."
"No...I think the more I know, the less worried about it I'll be." Kane said with a sigh. "To be honest, I don't understand any of it really. And the club incident...still haunts a lot of people. It just...no matter how much I think about it, it makes no sense. Ryoko-san was there, and it was so confusing...you can understand how I feel, can't you? We don't know how dangerous any of these people are. Even if your Ryoko isn't dangerous - that there are a lot of planets we didn't even know about, and that they have advanced technology - doesn't it worry you even a little?"
"Not really." Tenchi shook his head. "I don't think anyone will invade the Earth while they have a peace agreement with Jurai. I mean, I understand how you feel, but really, there's no need. I can't see Azusa-heika or for that matter Ayeka or Sasami letting anything happen to this planet."
Kane frowned, shooting his companion a sidelong glance, but he made no immediate response. Instead he gestured to a well known local restaurant, and Tenchi grinned, nodding his head.
"Suits me." He agreed. "Lead the way."
As they made themselves comfortable in an empty booth, Kane rested his head in his hands, eying his companion thoughtfully.
"You're really not scared of Jurai, are you?" he said softly. Tenchi looked startled. Then he shook his head.
"There's no reason to be." He assured his companion easily. "Believe me. I've met enough Juraians to know that they're not a threat to the Earth. In fact, there are a lot of things we can probably learn from them. Their ecology is so different from ours, but they don't have the environmental issues we do. We could probably stand to take their advice - after all, their whole planet is alive with trees and flowers and yet they're one of the most influential powers in the galaxy."
"You've...been there?" Taken aback, Kane could only stare, and Tenchi faltered, then laughed, scratching his head awkwardly.
"I'm sorry. You don't want to talk about aliens, you want to talk about normal stuff." He said sheepishly. "I'm not trying to freak you out, Kyoda, I promise."
"No...like I said, I think I need to know." Kane looked troubled. "Seriously, Masaki. You've been to Jurai? With...Ryoko?"
"Sort of." Tenchi pursed his lips, and Kane had the distinct idea his companion was selecting what information to tell him. "Once or twice. It's different from this planet, but it's not dangerous. I like Jurai very much, to be honest with you."
Kane bit his lip.
"But it's like...light years from the Earth, isn't it?" He reflected. "Weren't you travel-sick?"
"Travel-sick?" Tenchi looked startled. "The first time, I guess it was a bit oppressive. But no, not really."
"Do you think space is dangerous, Masaki-kun?"
"Space?" Tenchi looked taken aback. "I guess it can be, just like anything. Why? Kyoda, you seem to have something on your mind - is it still bothering you, that Ryoko came from outside this world? Because I want us to be on speaking terms, but I'm not going to forsake her either. I do love her, you know. That isn't going to change, so if you can't accept that..."
Kane did not answer right away, toying absently with his glass as he debated how best to respond. Then he sighed.
"I guess I'm just a little worried for you. That's all." He admitted at length. Tenchi's eyes widened.
"Worried? Why?"
"I...It's hard to explain." Kane hazarded. "But you...we've been friends, and I still consider that we are. I mean, beyond all of this - we're buddies, and I miss that. That's the truth, Masaki. We had a lot of laughs, before all of this alien stuff kicked in and started dividing people into groups."
"True." Tenchi frowned. "But I still don't see..."
"I know you say Ryoko didn't do anything to hurt anyone at the Osaka club, and I accept that...if you say it's true, I believe you." Kane rested his chin on his hands once more. "But I do remember something, Masaki, and it makes me worry that you're in over your head."
"Such as?"
"Whatever happened that night, that man who came from the spaceship...he was looking for you, wasn't he?"
"Man?" Tenchi looked bewildered, then, "Seiryo Tennan?"
"Yes. Him. He knew you by name...and he meant business, didn't he?"
"He...was confused." Tenchi said with a sigh. "I see. So this is what it's about? You think that I'm in danger, because I'm seeing Ryoko...is that it?"
"Partly." Kane admitted. "If you've been to Jurai, I guess it makes sense that some alien guy would know your name. But...Tenchi, listen to me a second, would you? I don't know whether it's true or it isn't, but I heard...a rumour...that Ryoko-san isn't...well, that she was...some kind of intergalactic criminal. And...that she was associated with dangerous people. This Tennan guy came out of nowhere to hunt you down - don't you think you're skating close to the edge, if it gets us caught up in some kind of interplanetary space conflict? A lot of people are still scared of what happened that night, and I'm not ashamed to admit I'm one of them. He blew the club to smithereens, we all saw it. And he was looking for you. If he knows you're here...that this planet is sheltering you...and Ryoko...what does that mean for everyone else?"
Tenchi stared, disbelief flickering in his dark eyes as he absorbed his companion's words. Then he shook his head.
"Kyoda-kun, nothing is going to happen to the Earth." He said softly. "I can see why you'd be worried - in fact, now you've explained it like that, I understand why you've acted the way you have. I guess I get it - Washu did say that you need more time to adjust to the idea of other planets, and that I've had longer than most to get used to that. She was right...especially since right now your only experience of alien life is probably that attack. But really, Kyoda, there's no integalactic war going on. Jurai is peaceful, really. And Ryoko...Ryoko isn't what you think she is. At least, not any more."
"Not any more?" Kane's eyes widened. "You mean...but she was?"
"Ryoko's past is eclectic, and really, not either of our business." Tenchi said vaguely. "She's not a wanted criminal though, if that's your concern. There aren't any space warrants out for her arrest. And as for Seiryo Tennan...I doubt he's even interested in coming back to the Earth. He was confused, like I told you. He's not really like that at all. Actually...I think he's probably a pretty good person to have as an ally, to be honest with you."
Kane swallowed hard, fighting to keep his composure. Slowly he nodded.
"All right." He agreed. "If you say so, I...I'll believe you. It's hard to know what's what from the news and those things - but I'll take it from you, Masaki. If you think that there's no danger, then...then I'm sorry and I...I will try to get my head around your seeing Ryoko-san. I don't want us to stop being friends because of a chick."
"Agreed." Tenchi looked relieved, and he nodded his head, proffering his hand to shake on the deal. "And I'm glad you feel that way, too."
As Kane accepted the gesture, a movement out of the corner of his eye made him glance up and he frowned, meeting the gaze of a young girl, thick red hair pulled back from her face, her wide green eyes absorbing everything around her. As she caught his eye, she smiled, dimpling. Then she turned, skipping out of the building without a backward glance. Despite himself, Kane was struck by this little girl, for something in her expression had set his nerves on edge.
"Kyoda?" Tenchi murmured. "Are you all right?"
"Yeah...just a kid giving me funny looks. Nothing important." Kane roused himself, nodding. "Sorry. I'm a space cadet today, aren't I?"
"No more than usual." Tenchi bantered, and Kane managed a weak smile.
"We should order." he reflected, pushing the image of the child from his mind as he reached to pick up the menu. "I'm probably just hungry. That's all."
--
Outside of the restaurant, Washu slipped neatly between the buildings, drawing her hands together as she re-channeled her energy into assuming her adult form once more. As she did so, her eyes narrowed, and she let out a heavy sigh, leaning up against the wall and folding her arms as she tut-tutted under her breath.
"So Ryoko was right." She murmured. "This Kyoda kid...to think that for once my daughter's paranoia would pay off. But...I wonder. I've glossed things in front of Tenchi, but there is a lot of tension brewing on the alien front of late. I've noticed it, the few times I've met with officials about this or that science project. They seem to still trust me, so far...and that's good to know. But this desire to up Earth's defence systems...all of a sudden. I wonder what's behind that. It's almost as if...some unspoken directive was at work here. And having overheard Tenchi and his friend talking, I'm beginning to be sure of it. Why else ask so many clumsy questions about Seiryo Tennan and Ryoko's past? Kane Kyoda is hiding something, and Tenchi's probably too naive to work out what it is. Thank God for him Ryoko and I are not so easily fooled."
She glanced at her hands, then shrugged, phasing her body out of the Osaka side-street and back to her laboratory, re-materialising in front of her main computer unit as she cast it a pensive look.
"Well?" Ryoko's voice startled her and she turned to see her daughter watching her impatiently. "Is Tenchi okay or are they swinging fists again?"
"They seem perfectly amicable, if that's all you're worried about." Washu said with a casual shrug, dropping down in front of her mainframe as she keyed in a couple of commands. "Where's Yume?"
"Cooking lunch. What do you mean, if that's all?" Ryoko's eyes narrowed. "Something else?"
"Yes." Washu frowned, turning to offer her daughter a grave look. "You're right about this Kyoda boy. I thought you were being paranoid, when you said he was trouble for Tenchi, but I'm revising my opinion."
"So what do we do about it?" Ryoko demanded. "I can't go around attacking earthlings...not if I want to stay here. And dammit, nor can Tenchi."
"Right now, nothing. I need to work out if this boy's sudden desire to talk to Tenchi about aliens and all kinds of other matters has a connection with the sudden increase in security demands for the atmosphere of this planet." Washu reflected. "I'm starting to be a mite concerned, to be honest. I've been trying to tell myself that it's just paranoia - that I'm letting my past experiences colour my opinion of this planet. But...I have noticed things. Little ones. And now...you know, Kyoda asked Tenchi about your pirate past, and about Seiryo Tennan and why he came asking for Tenchi in Osaka. Those are pretty leading questions."
"No kidding." Ryoko's expression darkened. "What did Tenchi tell him?"
"Nothing, fortunately." Washu reflected. "He's not completely stupid, and even if he's talking to someone he thinks is his friend, he's not going to want to scare him by elucidating your interesting history. But what bothers me is how he came by that kind of information. He sounded like he knew...a lot more than he was saying. That...what he was asking Tenchi, he already knew some of the answers to. Or thought he did."
"So he's acting as some kind of what...spy?" Ryoko bit her lip. "I thought that the Earth's welcome attitude was getting too good to be true. Do you think they're going to try and kick me out of here?"
"I don't know, but I will." Washu said grimly. "Even if they know who you are, it doesn't seem that they know too much about me yet. And while I'm still being trusted, I might be able to do some spying of my own. Starting with the Intergalactic Space Consortium - it's about time I showed my face there, and if something's afoot, I might find a clue if I nosy about a little in their restricted files. I have access, after all, and it would look less strange for me to investigate than it would you."
Ryoko grimaced, then nodded her head.
"Fine." She agreed with a sigh. "I guess so. I guess I need to keep my head down and plan my wedding, else people will think I'm looking for trouble. But it sucks, Washu. If this is some group of idiots trying to come between Tenchi and I...just when we're finally together, and settled..."
She trailed off, and Washu's expression softened, as she crossed the room, resting a hand on her daughter's shoulder.
"You have my word that I won't let that happen." She said sincerely, offering her only child a smile. "I've already promised myself that I'm going to make sure you have a happy ending, because I know what it feels like to be denied. So you leave it to me. I'm not quite a fool, and I'm probably better experienced in all of these kinds of things than people like Kane Kyoda. He seemed...an awkward kind of a spy, if that is what he is. And I think he does care about Tenchi's friendship, so I'm not totally sure what his motives are right at the moment. But I am sure of one thing - he's not acting on his own, and this lunch meeting wasn't a coincidental attempt to call a truce. Something darker is at work on this planet...and my next aim is to find out exactly what that something is!"
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Morning.
Kiyone opened her eyes, yawning as she stretched her arms over her head. The glittering ceiling of an expensive mansion room hung overhead and for a moment she faltered, unable to work out why she was not aboard Yagami and where on earth she could be. Then, as memory returned to her, she sighed, pulling herself into a sitting position as she reached for a stray blanket, wrapping it around her body as she moved to the window. It had been late by the time they had finished eating, and, with the memory of Seiryo's tears still fresh in her mind, Kiyone had opted not to hurry away from Jurai, hoping against hope that this was one of the few occasions when Mihoshi would manage to keep her mouth shut.
"I wonder how he is this morning." She reflected, as she rested her elbows on the sill of the guest room, gazing out across the spacious Tennan estate towards the dip in the land that led down to the family's mausoleum. "Last night he seemed...a little better, when we parted. Like talking to me...like shedding tears in that place had actually helped make a difference. But I don't know. It's wrong, seeing him this way. He's so strong - strong to the point of arrogance, usually. This Seiryo...is a man I don't know. I knew he loved his mother, but..."
She sighed, closing her eyes as a face flickered before her own gaze, vivid as if it were only yesterday that they had been parted.
"Kei-nii." She murmured. "I suppose it's true that grief can change you. But I...I found my closure, when I solved your case. Seiryo's still looking for his. I understand what he's feeling, but...I don't know how best to help him."
"Kiyone-san?"
A knock at the door made the Detective start and she turned, seeing Seiryo's sister standing in the doorway, robe wrapped around her slim body and her thick curly hair bound back from her face. She started in surprise, and Suki smiled, slipping into the room and shutting the door behind her.
"I'm sorry. I know it's early, but I heard you moving around." She said softly. "Do you mind - am I disturbing you?"
"No. I'm always up early - It's fine, Suki, really." Kiyone was surprised. Suki offered another slight smile, although her aquamarine eyes remained clouded, as she came to join the young officer at the window.
"I wanted to speak to you, before you went back, and before my brother was up." She said quietly, toying with the tie of her robe as she met Kiyone's gaze seriously. "I wanted to thank you for coming all this way. I didn't know until Tokimi told me that you were coming...and I wasn't sure whether it would be a good thing, or not, if you did. But...I think it was. For Seiryo...thank you."
"Well, I'm not the best person in the world at comforting, but I do know what it feels like to lose someone I loved." Kiyone eyed her companion keenly. "What about you, Suki-sama? Are you all right?"
"I think so. More than he is." Suki nodded her head. "Mother suffered so much for so long, you have to understand that. And the other thing is that Okaasama always had her faith in which to find comfort. Even though he works so closely for Sasami, Seiryo doesn't have that same faith. He believes in what he sees - the reality of Sasami's magic, sure enough. But the spiritual side - the guarding of souls beyond death...Seiryo has always been a practical man. To his mind, Mother is gone. There is nothing more...and that's why it's so hard for him to accept."
She swallowed, composing herself.
"I believe Mother's soul has gone somewhere beautiful. Somewhere there is no pain or suffering." She whispered. "And if I believe that, it's easier to be parted from her. She was so very, very ill. I hope that now she's happy and at peace. I believe she is...she deserved to be."
She tilted her head, sending the Detective a curious look.
"Will you stay here longer?" She asked softly. "Because you're more than welcome to, if you want. My brother finds it hard to confide his feelings, and I know he won't discuss them with me because he knows I'm suffering too. He's always protected me - he wouldn't burden me with this, not now. He'll feel he has to be the strong one, but I think he's having a harder time than I am with the whole concept. And...maybe he can confide in you. You seem...to be good friends. Tokimi certainly thinks so. She was happy when she knew you were coming. So will you stay? At least...a day or two more? Till Mother's memorial?"
"I...don't know." Kiyone faltered. "That depends on Seiryo. Whether he wants me here. And it depends on my work, too. If I'm called back..."
"I understand." Suki inclined her head. "And if that's the case, then of course, you must go. But...even for being here last night, Kiyone-san - thank you."
Kiyone sighed, resting her chin in her hands as she caught sight of the Lord of the Manor in the grounds below.
"He's up too." She murmured. "I wonder how much sleep he got."
Suki frowned, shaking her head.
"He can be too strong." She murmured. "He's going to the palace - he's dressed as Sasami's advisor, and it's almost time for Council session. Excuse me, Kiyone-san...I have to stop him. Sasami's told him to take time away, and he can't hide his grief in his work. It's not healthy...I just wish he'd listen to me."
"Do you want me to try?" Kiyone asked, and Suki faltered, eying her companion uncertainly. Kiyone shrugged.
"You said he listens to me." She said ironically. "It would be a good test, wouldn't it? Besides, better he's mad at me than at you, surely? I can always take Yagami and leave Jurai, after all."
Suki hesitated. Then, slowly, she nodded her head.
"Thank you." She murmured. "You're right."
Kiyone flashed her a smile, discarding the blanket as she pulled on her uniform over the top of her nightclothes.
"Don't worry. I'll make him listen to me." She said frankly. "I promise, I'll bring him back home. You have enough to worry about without him causing you more problems."
With that she was gone, down the stairs and through the centre of the busy house, ignoring the confused looks of the various house staff as they began their morning routines. Pushing open the heavy door of the estate, she hurried across the grass in the direction she had seen the nobleman go, a faint flicker of annoyance in her heart as she realised how stubborn he was being.
"Men." She muttered. "Juraian men most of all! Why can't he be like any ordinary person, and just listen when people give him advice! If Sasami doesn't want him at court, why the hell should he be going there? After yesterday, he's in no fit state!"
Almost as soon as this thought had crossed her mind, she caught sight of her target and her gaze narrowed as she judged whether or not she could reach him before he entered the palace grounds without causing a scene. Darting off the main path, she cut across the corner through a swathe of perfectly aligned Juraian Camelia trees, re-emerging onto the trackway just as the nobleman reached her. Without even stopping to think, she reached out a hand, grabbing him firmly by the arm and yanking him into the undergrowth.
"What the hell?" Seiryo, startled out of his reverie stumbled, almost falling headlong as he found himself pulled into the trees. "Kiyone? What are you doing? Have you lost your mind?"
"No, you have, and you're worrying Suki." Kiyone said frankly, putting her hands on her hips as she glared at him. "Listen, you idiot. We both know you're not fit enough to do any kind of work, so stop pretending you are. Don't you know that it's more stress for your sister and Tokimi if you try and pretend everything is all right? They both know you well enough to know that it isn't...and do you really think you're up to facing all those rude, pushy nobles that infest Jurai's court, anyway?"
"Kiyone, this is none of your business. I am a peer of Jurai and a vassal of Lady Sasami -the world doesn't stop spinning just because one woman dies." Seiryo said quietly, and Kiyone's brows knitted together.
"Not good enough." She said firmly. "I didn't come here so that you could behave like an arrogant idiot. I told you once that you didn't have to play it tough or pretend you could handle everything. And forget what they might think of you. You know you don't care two hoots for your fellow peers, so don't even give them another thought."
Seiryo stared at her for a moment, then he shook himself free of her grip.
"You of all people should understand." He said quietly, and Kiyone was aware of the flicker of anguish and determination in his teal gaze. "Kiyone, you of all people should know why I have to go on as normal. Sitting around - dwelling, it's only going to drive me crazy. You told me that when your brother died, you were the one who solved his murder. You laid your ghosts to rest because you went back to work and you put it in its right place. At least let me do the same."
"It's true, I did." Kiyone nodded her head. "And it did help, I don't deny it. But it put space between my family and I...at least, on my part. I never totally did accept that Kei-nii wouldn't be at home, if I went there to visit. And because that's still there, somewhat, I don't go home. Because he is there, but he's buried. He's not the Keitaro I remember. So yes, I went back to work. I hid myself in the Galaxy Police and I helped to solve my brother's murder. But if you think it solved everything, you're wrong. And you can't run away from your family. They're not like mine. Tokimi and Suki love you and your acting like this is only going to make them worry more."
"Did you come here to help me, or to tell me off?" There was an edge to Seiryo's tones, and Kiyone's brows knitted together.
"Both, if necessary." She said quietly, gently taking him by the arm and leading him back towards the house. "Listen to me, all right, else there's really no point in me being here at all. I know what I'm talking about. And you aren't as in command of your emotions as you usually are. If you go in there...who knows what might happen? What people might say - how you might react? You're shouting at me and I've not even done anything yet. Do you want to lose your temper with the Emperor?"
Seiryo opened his mouth to retort, then faltered.
"No." He admitted. "But I hate feeling helpless. I hate...doing nothing."
His voice caught slightly, and he gritted his teeth, shaking his head.
"I should never have burdened you by bringing you here, should I?" He said softly. "I'm sorry, Kiyone. I'm using you as a verbal punch bag, but that's not why I called you in the first place."
"No. You called me because you needed a friend." Kiyone said evenly. "And you're pretty desperate, because I'm the best you can manage. But right now, I don't care if you get mad at me. We're going back to the Tennan estate. Suki was worried, when she realised what you were about this morning. Do you want to pile more stress onto her head? Don't you think she misses your mother too?"
Seiryo looked stricken, and Kiyone knew her words had hit home.
"Exactly." She said quietly. "So come on. And stop being an ape."
Seiryo sighed, but gave up his resistance, and for a while they walked in silence back towards the Tennan estate.
"I wished to speak to Lady Sasami about Mother's memorial, too." It was Seiryo who broke the calm, as they reached the main gates.
"Well, I can ask her to come see you." Kiyone said frankly. "I was going to try and see Sasami and Ayeka before I went back to Headquarters, anyway. So I'll be your errand girl. In the circumstances, noone will expect you to show your face at court, anyway. And I don't mind."
"You really are determined to keep me under lock and key, aren't you?" Seiryo eyed her keenly. "If you're afraid I may publically have another moment of weakness like I did yesterday, Kiyone, your fears are groundless."
"I don't mind if you cry or if you don't." Kiyone said evenly. "Or where you do it, if it helps you come to terms with this. I told you yesterday that it didn't make you any less of a man, to shed tears for someone you loved. But I do worry that you might jump into a fight with someone - probably Takeru-sama - and get yourself into some kind of trouble. And that is the last thing poor Suki needs, with everything else on her mind. If you want to protect her, and you don't want her to worry about you, then you need to stop acting before you think. Take a few days and don't run away from it...cowards run away, after all. Are you that?"
"Are you?"
"Sometimes I wonder." Kiyone admitted. "But that's beside the point."
She gave him a little push.
"Here. This is where you belong." She added. "I'll change properly, and then I'll go see Sasami for you. You go think about what I've said, all right?"
"You can be very bossy, sometimes."
"Well, it matches up with your idiocy." Was Kiyone's smart rejoinder, and despite himself, a faint smile touched Seiryo's lips.
"Perhaps it does." he owned. "Very well, Detective. I bow to your better opinion."
He inclined his head towards her, as if acknowledging her words, then he turned on his heel, heading back towards the house. Kiyone frowned, watching him go.
"Idiot." She muttered. "But maybe he isn't so very different from me, after all. Kei-nii...I suppose I did run away, didn't I? Maybe I was a coward. I don't know. It brought me closure, and that was all I cared about at the time. Still, at least he didn't fight me too hard. I don't know that I'd have been able to force him back here, if he hadn't been willing to go. He really is a stubborn ass at times."
She pursed her lips, then shrugged her shoulders, heading back inside as she made her way up to the elegant chamber that had become hers the previous evening as she sought to properly change her clothes.
"I'll tell Sasami that he's really not up to doing anything official for a week or two at the very least." She decided as she brushed her hair, tying it back loosely as she straightened her uniform. "There. I don't know if I'll be able to stay on Jurai any longer than today - I need to call in with Mihoshi later and find out if anyone's bothered about my absence. For now, though, I better keep my word. If I don't, he'll just be off across the landscape all over again."
It was not a long walk to the Tenju palace, and as she reached the entrance, she produced her identification, flashing the soldier on duty a smile as she explained the reason for her presence.
"It's not exactly an official visit." She concluded. "But if Lady Sasami is not otherwise engaged, I'd appreciate a moment of her time."
"Kiyone-san!" Before either of the officials could react, a third soldier pushed between them, bowing his head towards her as he offered her a smile. "What brings you to Jurai?"
"Kamidake." Kiyone grinned back. "I've come to see Sasami, sort of. In a round about way. Is it possible - can I?"
"Of course. I know she'll want to see you." Kamidake nodded his head. "She's been at Tsunami's shrine, but I think she's out by the stream now - she has nothing pressing on her schedule...come with me, and I'll take you there."
"Thanks." Kiyone nodded, sliding her identification back into her pocket. "That would make life simpler. I'm glad she's not busy - I know that since she became Tsunami's representative on a public scale, she's had a lot of things to think about."
"Well, at the moment, there's not a lot she can do." Kamidake admitted. "You must be aware...that Sasami's advisor is not with us at present."
"That's partly why I'm here." Kiyone's expression became grave, and she nodded. "Although he very nearly was here, this morning. I had to forcibly drag him back to the Tennan estate."
"Pardon me?" Kamidake looked bewildered, and Kiyone eyed him ruefully.
"Seiryo was the one who called me to Jurai." She admitted. "When I heard about his mother, I came to see if I could do anything to help. In honesty, he seemed at the end of his tether, when we spoke. And I would say...that that would still be a pretty good assessment of his current mental state. Although he seems a little better than he did when I arrived yesterday...I think it's hit him hard."
"Indeed." Kamidake's expression cleared, and he nodded. "Lord Tennan is a very strong man, and he takes his duties to Princess Sasami extremely seriously. However, in the circumstances...noone expects him to attend court. I'm sure at the moment there are far more pressing things on his mind than the matters of state or faith."
"Understatement." Kiyone said frankly. "So I've come bearing a message for the Princess...because it was the only way to make sure he didn't come and run amok at the palace. His temper's on a short fuse...I didn't want to risk conflict. I know what Seiryo's like, when he's angry - he gets sarcastic and I didn't want him to decide to choose today to re-ignite his feud with Lord Takeru."
"I believe your thinking to be wise." Kamidake spoke ruefully. "It is true that Takeru-sama and Seiryo-sama have buried most of their animosity when in public...however, in private circles..."
He shrugged.
"But this is no business of mine." He reflected. "Actually, when I saw you, I wondered if you were here on another errand."
"Another errand?" Kiyone looked startled, and the Knight nodded his head.
"Mm. Regarding the planet known as Earth, and its relations with the Galaxy Police."
"The...Earth?" Kiyone's eyes narrowed. "What about it?"
"Then you are not aware." Kamidake looked pensive. "And I am unsure if it is my place to tell you. Lord Tennan would probably say yes, but he is not here to consult - in fact, with the situation as it is, he knows nothing of it. But..."
"Kamidake, if this involves the Police, I should know." Kiyone said frankly. "Tell me, and don't worry about protocol. If it's sensitive information, I won't reveal where it came from. But if it's important, I should know."
"Very well." Kamidake frowned. "There have been reports of late that...well. The Galaxy Police has always had close ties with Jurai. This is true, isn't it?"
"Yes. Too close." Kiyone agreed. "Sometimes, at least."
"Indeed." Kamidake nodded his head. "And since the Emperor extended his hand of friendship to the Earth, more and more of their kind have travelled through space to Jurai...everyone has high hopes of this being a secure alliance."
"But..?" Kiyone pressed. "Something involving the Police is interfering with this...?"
"Well." Kamidake sighed. "At the start of the week, envoys arrived here from the Galaxy Police Elite. They spoke with my Emperor for some time, and Azaka and I were fortunate enough to be present for most of the conversation. They raised serious concerns...about a security leak from their central command. In short, that there are spies within the Galaxy Police who are not in conjunction with Jurai."
"Spies against Jurai?" Kiyone looked bewildered. "From the Earth? What the hell do they think they're doing? If they create trouble for Azusa-sama and this world...?"
"Yes, and openly, relations between the planets remain peaceful." Kamidake nodded. "But...someone was arrested here yesterday morning, on suspicion of providing illicit information to people outside of Jurai's borders. Normally, these kinds of things are dealt with swiftly and simply. However, in this particular case, the situation seems a little bit more obscure. In truth, Kiyone-san, I really am the wrong one to be bearing this news. However, since you are clearly associating yourself with Lord Tennan, you should be aware of what is going on."
"With Seiryo?" Kiyone looked lost. "You're jumping around all over the place - this connects to Seiryo?"
"The man arrested yesterday had in his possession reports relating to the incident with Kihaku and the hearing of Lord Tennan." Kamidake said gravely. "And the envoys from the Elite seem to believe that he has been the focus of attention at Headquarters, too. They, being former allies and comrades of Lord Tennan's, are concerned about the situation. But also because they realise that good relations with Jurai are precious..."
He sighed, rubbing his temples.
"With our involvement with Lady Sasami, it is impossible for Azaka and I to stay out of matters as much as we should." He admitted. "We are afraid - both the Emperor and ourselves - that she has also come in for an amount of scrutiny, maybe because of her links with Lord Tennan, or maybe because of her divine connection to Jurai's holy Goddess. It seems clear though that all these incidents are connected. That the planet known as Earth are, all of a sudden, fiercely interested in both Lord Seiryo Tennan and the Princess Sasami."
"How weird." Kiyone's brows knitted together. "What could a planet like the Earth do to anyone?"
"That is the material question." Kamidake admitted. "My instinct would be very little. However...that there has been some breach of security seems beyond doubt. Furthermore, if they have data relating to Seiryo-sama's hearing, they will know that you testified. And you may yourself become an object of scrutiny - which is why I thought that the reason you had come."
"Because I gave evidence against Seiryo..." Kiyone bit her lip. "But that's all in the past, now. He was possessed. He's nothing like the man I thought he was then...are you saying someone might see me as a potential ally, because I aligned myself against him then?"
"It is possible, yes." Kamidake said with a sigh. "You have to remember that my Emperor, considering the delicacy of the case, suppressed a lot of the details from the Galaxy Police even after Lord Tennan decided to tender his resignation for the Elite. Your Commander may know more now than he did before - such has been my impression from Lord Tennan's own comments - but as a whole, the matter has been hushed up quite considerably. But it is paperwork that relates to a breach of not only Juraian trust but Galaxy Police trust. A matter involving an assault on a fellow officer attempting to do her duty."
"Me." Kiyone sighed. "Even though I was actually spying for Washu at the time - which wasn't really me doing my duty at all, when it comes down to it."
"But you were a victim in this case, which may suit whatever body is investigating the event." Kamidake said evenly. "And because of this, I think...Seiryo-sama would say you should know, if he were here to give such advice."
"And he knows nothing of this?"
"Nothing." Kamidake confirmed. "With his personal situation, it was thought better. Takeru-sama even gave directives to that effect - that noone was to bother Seiryo-sama until he was ready to return to the court and take up his responsibilities. He effectively swore us to secrecy, so I may have been remiss in revealing this to you. However..."
"No. It's all right. I can be discreet." Kiyone's eyes narrowed as she digested his words. "But it makes no sense. The Elite envoys have left?"
"Yes." Kamidake agreed. "They left before the Juraian spy was apprehended."
"And him?"
"He has been confined awaiting trial, but it would seem that he was paid a good deal of money by someone acting as a middle-man between the Earth and Jurai." Kamidake shrugged. "That is all I know. His name - this I cannot give you. I do not know what it is."
"Well, you've given me enough to think about." Kiyone murmured. "All right, Kamidake. Thank you for taking the gamble and telling me. I'll keep it in mind when I go back - I'll be on my guard for anyone who might be looking to sway me to their cause. Who knows...I might learn something."
She eyed him pensively.
"Sasami - does she know about this?"
"Yes." Kamidake agreed. "Because her name has been brought into the equation. But I do not fear for the Princess's safety. Of all people, she can defend herself better than even Azaka and I can defend her these days. But...there is another matter which causes us all concern. You are aware...that our own communications with the Earth - it seems likely that Lord Tenchi and Lady Ryoko will be cementing their alliance in the not so distant future? In that event, Sasami-sama and Ayeka-sama at the very least would seek to travel to the Earth - probably Lord Takeru as well, and perhaps even Lord Tennan, if he is enough recovered. If the Earth is becoming a volatile place for Juraian interest, can you imagine what the consequences could be? If something threatened the Princesses, Azusa-sama may not take it lightly."
"And Earth might be attacked." Kiyone said thoughtfully. "Yes. I see. Though I can't understand what benefit this would have for anyone on the Earth."
"Me either. But as I said, that's all I know."
As they rounded the corner, they reached their destination, and as Kiyone gazed across towards the stream, a young girl got to her feet with an exclamation as she ran across to hug her visitor.
"Kiyone!"
"Sasami-chan." Kiyone grinned, returning the hug warmly. "For a Goddess, you sure have a lot of mud on your gown."
"I know, but I can do as I please this morning...and I'm making the most of it." Sasami admitted. "Kiyone, why are you here? Is it because...has Kamidake told you? About the Galaxy Police?"
"He has, but don't worry. I can be discreet." Kiyone assured her. "And that's not why I'm here. Actually, it's a total other reason. I came to see Seiryo."
"Seiryo?" Sasami blinked, then, "You came to see him especially?"
"Yes." Kiyone agreed. "Because he needed a friend. I came yesterday, and I don't know if I'm staying beyond today, yet. But he seemed so out of it when he called me, I had to come make sure he was all right."
"He really isn't." Sasami looked troubled. "Suki's worried about him. She says he bottles it up inside of him and it's enough to make her scream...he won't talk about it, or cry, or do any of the normal things people do when someone dies. All he's done is take his sword and carved up an old hut...he's frustrating both of us."
"He was coming to the palace this morning, but I stopped him." Kiyone admitted, as the young princess led her back towards the water's edge, sinking down on the grass and making herself comfortable. "I hoped that I'd get a chance to come visit you and Ayeka while I was here, too, so I told him I'd bring his message to you."
"Well, I'm glad for the thought." Sasami dimpled. "And to see you - although you probably won't see Ayeka. She's been busy a lot lately, and...not so well, if I'm honest. She shouldn't be working so hard...it sort of worries me."
"She's all right, isn't she?" Kiyone looked anxious, and Sasami nodded her head slowly.
"I think so." She agreed. "It's not like that. I mean...it's hard to explain. But I don't think she'll be able to spare time like I can. It's frustrating, being so kept out of things with Seiryo not here - they take me more seriously at court when he's with me. That's why I don't know as much as I should about this spy thing...because noone will talk to thirteen year old Princesses if there's not an adult to play babysitter."
Her crimson eyes glittered with frustration, and Kiyone laid a gentle hand on her shoulder.
"You shouldn't be in such a hurry to grow up, you know."
"It's not that." Sasami sighed. "I just...I want to help Ayeka. And you, and Seiryo, too. I want to be involved in this, and it's a pain. But I won't have Seiryo back before he's ready - it's just sort of annoying that it's only okay to address things to Lady Tsunami if it's done through Lord Tennan. I didn't realise how much he gets me listened to - right now I've been relegated back to being Child Princess and it stinks."
"Well, I think that Seiryo might be glad to have an unofficial visit from that child princess." Kiyone reflected, faint amusement in her eyes at her companion's rebellious attitude. "He wants to speak to you about his mother's memorial - if you don't mind, I think it would be a better conversation had in the privacy of the Tennan estate. I don't think he should be here, when everyone is going to stare at him. Right now he's on edge enough to take his blade to anyone at a moment's notice."
"Then I will go there this afternoon. I meant to, anyhow." Sasami nodded, her crimson eyes grave. "I feel so sorry for him, Kiyone. First his father, then his mother."
"I think he's taken this one a lot harder than he took his father's death." Kiyone leant back on her hands, gazing up at the clear blue sky. "I've never seen him like this, and it worries me, to be honest. Even when he was half crazed and trying to kill me, I swear...he wasn't as strange as he is right now."
"Men are so funny when it comes to things like crying, and stuff like that." Sasami said pensively. "Suki says he just won't do it, but I'm sure he'd feel better if he did."
"Men are an enigma all of their own." Kiyone said ruefully. "I've told him the same thing."
"I wish it hadn't all happened now." Sasami admitted. "With all this spy business going on. I don't know why they're so interested in him, Kiyone...it bothers me. Seiryo's been through a lot of things in the past year and a half...he left the Galaxy Police even though he didn't want to, because of Tokimi's magic. Now his mother's passed away, and I know how close they were. It seems unfair that this is another thing on his head. I'm glad you came to see him. It was kind of you...and I'm glad you're friends now, I really am. He's never been an evil man, and I'm glad you could forgive him. I just hope this isn't going to turn into another bad time for him."
"Well, if something's going on at the Galaxy Police, now I'm aware of it, I'll see what I can find out." Kiyone decided. "It's really someone on the Earth who's behind all of this?"
"Well, that's not totally for sure, but it looks that way." Sasami toyed with a stray blade of grass. "Uncle thinks that it's a knee-jerk reaction to Jurai's involvement...that the people are afraid of us. It's happened before, and Jurai have a reputation for invasion and stuff. But the thing is, the Earth couldn't fight Jurai. So I don't know why they'd want to make Uncle angry. And besides, Tenchi and Ryoko and Washu and Ryo Ohki are there...so Uncle wouldn't attack the Earth anyway."
"But the people on the Earth don't know Azusa-sama's mind like you do, I suppose." Kiyone sighed. "Fear does make people do stupid things. And the trouble is, Earth might be weak. But if the Police are involved, somehow...we're talking about a multi-national body of people, from all over the galaxy. They might find other allies with grievances against Jurai."
"I hadn't thought of that!" Sasami's eyes widened with alarm, and Kiyone frowned.
"I know. I'm sorry. But as a Detective, my brain automatically tends to think that way." She said sadly. She hesitated, then cast her young companion a glance.
"Of course, it doesn't benefit my friends on Jurai or my friends on the Earth, if the Galaxy Police becomes a political battle ground." She reflected. "If I find anything out, do you want me to report it back to you, here?"
"Spy for Jurai?" Kamidake looked doubtful. "Wouldn't that be...risky?"
"Possibly." Kiyone agreed. "But if I am a target for these people - if they do think I'm an enemy of Seiryo's, I might well find out more than I bargain for anyway. And you did say that Ryoko and Tenchi's wedding was on the horizon, Kamidake. If there is something, it should be resolved before Ayeka or Sasami travel to the Earth - right?"
"Ayeka and I will go, no matter what." Sasami said frankly. "But you're right. Bad stuff could happen, and it could make it tricky for Uncle."
"So it's decided, then." Kiyone shrugged. "I'll find out what I can, and I'll report to you, Sasami, on whatever I do. After all, if Seiryo's in the state he is, he doesn't need to know he's been the target of a spy."
"We do miss his counsel." Kamidake said gravely. "I'm sure he would not want you to put yourself in danger on his behalf."
"Well, he won't need to know about it, and I'm sure it's more than just Seiryo's behalf." Kiyone said pragmatically. "When I go back, I'll see what's what. Don't worry, I'll be careful. I've learnt a lot more about discretion and elite tactics in the past year, thanks to his help...its time I put them to some use!"