When Heaven answers...(PART VI)
Disclaimer: Any Tenchi characters in this fic
belong to AIC and Pioneer. If there are any
characters that you have not heard of, they are mine!
Any legal letters sent to claim money will be filled under "I" for important...right in the pail!
At the security post located on the edge of the Alcaron territory...none of the officers on board noticed any particular disturbances that day. They were completely unaware of the ship that had passed them over three hours ago and would never have guessed the identity of its occupant. Aboard the Heart of Darkness, Vin-Roc quietly meditated on his approaching target. He sat in darkness and set the computer to fly in under cloak. "Computer...estimated time of arrival?" The computer hummed slightly and spat out "Arrival will be in approximately two sub-jahs (two minutes Earth standard)" He leaned back, his face covered in the paint that signified his frame of mind, that being of red and black. He was only bringing with him his blade that had so many times in the past saved him from near death. He wanted no guns and no fancy tricks. If at all possible, he wanted to keep this as honorable as possible. "Now entering atmosphere of Alcaron...beginning final descent" "Computer...have
we been detected?" "Negative...all systems show planet on regular security levels" "Very well then..." The ship screamed across the sky but disturbed no homes or radar systems. "Closing in on Imperial Council Headquarters...shall I decrease our speed and begin landing procedures?" "Negative, continue at current speed, and prepare to open drop hatch...I must leave you now computer...you will continue on course and proceed to the nearest asteroid and await further command" "Understood...it was an honor working with you...if you do not succeed that is" "The same here computer..." The hatch opened and the ship's occupant dropped from the sky and decelerated its descent using light waves of energy to slow its' velocity. Upon landing, Vin-Roc quickly stole away into the shadows and approached the gates. Above him, his ship continues its course and quickly left the atmosphere. Tapping a few buttons on his console pad, he quickly faded from normal vision and soon blended into every
background that he touched.
At the gates, he quickly discovered that there were no guards at their post. "...they must have gotten my message...they're obviously expecting me...all the better" He leaped over the gates and proceeded towards the entrance of the headquarters. Blending from one background to another, he did his best to avoid the token soldiers that were left around in order to not let him feel too comfortable about the situation. He had no intention of fighting his own people if possible...he wanted to save his anger for the Council themselves. A sound from behind him caused him to reach for his blade by reflex, but held back when he noticed it was a soldier making a turn in the opposite direction. It was not a difficult environment to maneuver around; in fact it was rather simple. This was so because not many individuals ever entered these halls so hiding or confusing was not a major concern of the buildings design. Continuing up to the main door, he noticed two soldiers stationed in
front of the last obstacle that stood between himself and his redemption. Vin-Roc bounded from one wall to another finally landing behind the soldiers. He quickly struck them in sensitive pressure points and both soldiers went down. His heart began to race as he realized just what lay behind these doors. His hand was on the handle; nearly ready to turn it and enter when he stopped and pulled back. "Wait...I need a better approach than this...let me see...yes that will do...that will do most nicely" He focused his thoughts and energy into a single object; one he hoped would help to even the odds against his adversaries.
The Imperial Council was expecting his return and was not disappointed. The doors swung open and the one soldier they wanted eliminated more than anything else was standing before them. "Hmmm...I see this place has changed little since I was last here..." Vin-Roc smiled and shot a look at all five councilmen who returned the icy gaze back to him. "So...our beloved and favorite warrior has returned...I hope it was not too long of a wait for you..." The first councilman spoke, leaning forward bringing his face into full view. "You realize that by returning you have sealed your fate?" The second councilman spoke and he too leaned forward and brought his face into full view. "My fate...yes indeed I have...but I did not come here only to leave alone...I'm going to make it a point that I see each and every one of you...in HELL!!!" Vin-Roc's words echoed through the halls and some of the councilmen appeared nervous. "You do not think to best us...to bite the hand that fed
you...that made you what you are today...do you?" The fourth councilman spoke with authority and shook an elderly finger at him. "Fed me...the only thing you feed me...and every other person on this planet...was a pack of lies...now...enough talk...let us end this!" He straightened his stance and readied himself for battle. "As you wish dear Vin-Roc...it will be a shame to watch you die...we had such plans for you...you may have him"
The first councilman motioned to the fifth and he leaped from his seat landing a few yards away from Vin-Roc. "Well, shall we begin?" Vin-Roc motioned to the councilman and they both assumed their fighting stances. The councilman was the first to go and took a diving thrust at Vin-Roc who parried it away and answered with one of his own. It connected and the fifth councilman was thrown back. High above, the other councilman watched on as both combatants went back and forth, both delivering and avoiding one another's' shots. Finally, the fifth councilman went for the kill when he noticed Vin-Roc hesitated for a moment and showed a few signs of pain. He went in for a thundering blow, but was met with a hand to his midsection. With a mighty war cry, Vin-Roc pushed his hand straight through the midsection of the councilman who immediately spat blood. He looked at Vin-Roc and spoke "Was...was that...the hand of ...Seljin...?" "Indeed it was...goodbye councilman" Was his response
followed by a sickening crack as he snapped the spine of his adversary. The councilman fell dead into a pool of his own blood. Vin-Roc looked up and held an evil smile at the remaining council members. "So...who is next?" The board felt concerned never realizing that he would have made it this far. Suddenly, Vin-roc felt a warm sensation in his stomach. He looked down and saw the reason for this...his entire midsection had been shot through by a powerful beam. High above, the first councilman decided to end this and took aim and fired upon the soldier below, who finally fell dead too in his own blood.
"Well...that finally ends that little nuisance...what say we convene for today and..." He was interrupted by the sound of applause coming from a distance. Looking in the direction of the sound, they all strained to see in the dark what it was. "Very good councilman...very sneaky as well...but you did always lack honor..." His outline made it obvious who it was that was approaching them. He came over to the fallen body that was his exact in every way. Picking it up by the neck, he examined it and threw it into the corner, and then incinerated it. "Ah...the marvel of clones...a pity they don't keep up for too long...I knew you would do something like that...so I took a few moments to construct a clone to take my place...to help level the playing field..." The first councilman nodded to his tactfulness. "Truly, you are a survivor...an excellent tactician and a worth adversary...but...now the game shall end!"
With that, the four remaining councilmen leaped from their seats and fell to the ground, surrounding Vin-Roc on all four sides. Using the moment of surprise all four members engulfed Vin-Roc in a ball of energy. "This is how it shall end for you..." spoke the first. "You will die as a traitor..." Spoke the second. "We shall be hailed as heroes..." Spoke the third. "You will fade away...and forever be known as a failure" Spoke the fourth. "Arrrrrrrrgggggggggggghhhhhhhh!!!" He could fell himself losing consciousness. He never knew just how powerful they were, and the smell of his own flesh burning was proof enough. (I...can't...do it...too powerful...dammit...I failed...) He could still hear them taunting him, but their words were becoming harder and harder to discern. Just as he was about to die...he thought of his last words to the reason why he came back here. (What did I say...can't remember...think...WHAT WAS IT!!! Wait...I promised her.... "Ryoko...I promise you
this...when all of this is over...I'll come back for you...I swear it...just believe in me till then" I promised her...I must try...if nothing else...I MUST TRY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!) "AAARRGGGHHH...DAMN YOU...DAMN YOU ALL...TO HELL IS WHERE I WILL SEND YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" With that, he summed up all his hope, all his love, all his pain, all his loss, and all he stood to gain, and focused it into one last attack. The ensuing ball of energy he released cleaved off the entire right side of the palace and was felt nearly across the entire continent. Many in the distance looked to the sky and wondered...what could have possibly have done that? In what was the remaining part of the palace...the debris lay everywhere. In the distance, three councilmen tried to get to their feet. The managed to achieve this, vomited blood, and fell back down, and they remained there...dead. Vin-Roc staggered to get to his feet; he managed this and saw the other three councilmen fall
dead before him. He forced a smile but then realized one was still remaining.
A few yards off, he saw the first councilman push away some debris and wipe some blood from his face. "Outstanding...you have impressed me...you have done what countless races with armies numerous in size failed to do. Heh-heh...one man...one man indeed..." Both stood and realized this would be the final battle. The combatants drew their blades and in an instant were upon each other. One striking after another, most of their attacks were blocked, the ones that made their mark were slight ones. After some time though, the first councilman began to show his experience by avoiding Vin-Roc's slash and slicing him across his chest. Another two blows landed on Vin-Roc who was slowing down and bleeding rather badly. The councilman sensed victory and went in for the kill. The soldier knew he had only seconds to act. He stretched out his arm with blade in hand and reflected the sunlight from the gaping hole in the palace and shined it into the councilman's eyes. He was temporarily
blinded, but that was all Vin-Roc needed. Racing in, he took three mortal swipes across the councilman's midsection, all making their mark. He watched as his opponent tried to stand his ground, but eventually fell to one knee. "...very...very well indeed...cough...curse you...but you have...won...cough...won...thy freedom...use it...wisely" With that, the councilman collapsed. Vin-Roc looked to the heavens...badly bleeding, he knew his time left was short. "I...I did it...Ryoko...I did it...Annexia...soon...very soon...I shall join you...my wife...I shall join you...soon..." He dropped his blade and collapsed to the ground, and did not move again, his mission was complete...almost.
Ryoko shot up from her bed covered in sweat. It was well past midnight and the pirate suddenly felt deep inside her what she hoped would never happen. She immediately teleported out of the house and began flying as fast as she could...there were tears in her eyes as she approached a nearby mountain. (No....no...no...no...it can't be...it just can't be...you promised me...you promised me!!!!!!) Atop the mountain, Ryoko cleared her throat and looked up to the moon. She let out a scream that would wake any who would hear her cry of remorse..."NNNNNNNNNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" But she already knew it was true. She stayed the rest of the night atop the mountain, sitting with her head buried in her shoulders sobbing, but never slept.
The celebration at the Masaki's was a special one indeed. It had been three months since Kiyone and Tenchi had returned to Earth together, and were now celebrating the announcement of their engagement. Mihoshi was so happy for her partner she was the first to cry. Sasami had made a special meal for everyone on this day. Tenchi's father was so proud of him for taking the next step in becoming a man and Grandfather had requested that when the time comes it be he that delivers the wedding. Washu was happy for them both, but was still very concerned with her partner Ryoko. She stood by the door of her laboratory and tried to look happy as Sasami tried offering her some snacks. Everyone was having a great time...that is except for one person in particular.
Outside by the lake, Ryoko looked at the peaceful body of water, wishing her life was as calm and smooth. (I...never said goodbye...never said that I...) "Ryoko" Tenchi called out to her as he approached. He was walking towards her when he said "Ryoko...why don't you come inside...please?" She still had her back to him...she couldn't face him knowing that she had lost two people in such a short time. "Tenchi...I...I have to go for a while" His first reaction was that of shock. He couldn't believe that she would do this, but then he realized that she needed her space and he respected that decision. "He's gone you know?" she mentioned to him. "No...I didn't...I'm so sorry...how did you know?" Tenchi felt even more surprised by this news. "It's a feeling...that I know is true" She wished so dearly she was wrong. "Will you ever some back again?" Tenchi didn't want her to leave like this. "I...don't know...I've lost two people now in my life...I don't have much reason to stay
here...but before I go...I want you to have this" She took his hand and quickly put the contents in his palm. He looked at her gift and tried to protest, "But Ryoko...this is the crystal I gave you...this what brought us together...why?" he was trying to understand the meaning of this "Don't get the wrong idea Tenchi...I still care about you...nothing will ever change that...but you're going to need this more than I will. You have someone now that you have to protect...please...take it" Reluctantly, Tenchi nodded his head and turned her around. He saw she was crying and wanted so badly to make her pain go away. This time though, there would be no easy solutions...so he did the next best thing...he kissed her. "I...I would have waited forever for that Tenchi...thank you..." She hugged him and turned heading towards her ship.
Kiyone soon came out to look for Tenchi when she saw him by the lake with his hands by his side. She came up behind him and put her arm around him and leaned her head on his shoulder. "What is it Tenchi?" she wanted to know what had him so down. "It's...Ryoko she left...and gave me this" He showed her the crystal, which made her gasp. "No...she's still my friend...its just that...she said I would need it more than her...that I have someone to protect...and she was right..." Tenchi turned around and took Kiyone in a close embrace "I love you Kiyone" She felt her heart skip a beat every time he said that to her and she kissed him. "Come on, let's go back inside, they're all looking for us" They turned and started walking back to the house. (Thanks Ryoko...for understanding...for being there...for everything...please come back soon) Above, Ryoko's ship accelerated out of Earth's orbit and headed towards nowhere in particular.
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On a planet far off in the Alevian Galaxy, the inhabitants of one of the larger cities on this planet was having its annual Festival of Life and the lights from the city could be seen for a great distance in all directions. Many were flocking from all over to participate and join in on the joyous festivities. It was getting on in the day heading towards evening and the participants were getting ready for things to really pickup. In the distance, outside of town, a lonely figure sat atop a rocky cliff overlooking the ocean watching the waves crash down below. Under normal circumstances, this would have been a truly inspirational sight, but this was not to be.
Ryoko simply sat there alone, watching the waves crash back and forth. She felt the waves were like her life. They would constantly come in strong from nowhere, but would then crash and cease to exist, and the cycle would continue. It reminded her of her emotions and relationships. They would come on strong and she would be happy, but then because of circumstances usually beyond her control, things would abruptly turn and go south. The pirate sat there quietly, contemplating a number of things, and of nothing in particular. The sky was getting dark, and the stars would be coming out soon. (I just can't seem to get it right...what do I have to do before...before I can finally win for a change?) She decided then that the best thing to do was something she would never try under the usual circumstances. Ryoko was not the one who believed in fairy tales or knights in shinning armor coming to rescue a damsel in distress. But this time, she was willing to try...and to believe. She
put her hands together, lowered her head and closed her eyes. With her heart open for the heavens to hear her, she whispered... "Starlight, starbrite, first star I see tonight, wish I may, wish I might, have the wish I wish tonight...I have lived too long and have lost so much...if nothing else I ask for is..." She started to cry "is to finally win...win the heart of the one I truly love and to make it last always...please believe me...if nothing else I ask for...please...hear me" She wiped her eyes and never noticed the first star out in the sky streaking past her, and that it heard her prayer.
"Well...I never thought the great Ryoko was ever the hopeless romantic..." A voice form behind spoke. She had no idea that this voice belonged to someone who had been standing there for quite sometime and had too heard her prayer. "Mister...you picked a really bad time to mess with me...get ready to..." Ryoko was beginning to power up an energy blast in her hand when she fully turned around. Looking up, she saw the origin of the voice. A tall individual, clad entirely in black with a flowing cape stood there and simply smiled at her. At first, this only served to anger her even more...until she looked into his eyes...and realized who was in front of her. "Oh...my...god...it can't be...can it?" The tears began to fall from her eyes again "Oh please don't tease me...it can't be...please tell me!!!" She wiped her eyes thinking she was seeing things. When she was done, the figure was still there and still smiling at her. "It...it...it is you...but how...I thought you were" "I
was" spoke Vin-Roc. "But...as I was dying, I remembered...remembered that I made you a promise...and I had every intention of keeping that promise...that is what brought me back from death" Ryoko hand a hand over her moth still completely in shock. "It wasn't easy finding you...you seem to move quite a number of times...but now..."
His demeanor changed to a more serious one "Now that I found you...l wanted to tell you...I did it, my time for running is over. I don't have to hide, I don't need to live in fear anymore...the Council is no more, and my name has been cleared. But there still is a part of me that is not complete" She waited to hear the rest his words hanging on to every last one of them "That part is you Ryoko; you are the missing part of my life. I have my whole life ahead of me...but I don't want it to be without you. Please...come back with me...you don't need to be alone anymore" Ryoko simply stared at him with her head swirling with thoughts and confusement. (Can it be...did someone really hear my wish...and answer it...what do I do?) He could feel how confusing this must have been to her. He simply stretched out his hand to her "please Ryoko...I love you...come back with me...please" At that, Ryoko quickly ran past his hand and threw herself into his arms. She whispered into his ear "I
will never lose you again...I promise!" Tears for two fell that night as the festivities began off in the direction of the city.
"But it's been three months already!" Tenchi spoke with a bit of panic in his voice. All of the family was gathered in the living room trying to console Tenchi, including Kiyone who had taken a seat by his side. She held his hand looking at the matching engagement rings they wore. (I wish there was something I could do for him...he really is worried about her). "Look Tenchi, don't worry, Ryoko will be fine, she's a big girl and can take care of herself. Besides, she hasn't gone and committed any crimes or we would have heard something by now" Tenchi felt a little more relieved and grateful for having such a caring person in his life like Kiyone...he really had made the right choice. At first, Aeka was very upset about him choosing Kiyone over her, but after a short while, the princess accepted and respected his choice, though she was still determined to find a way into his heart somehow. He leaned over and kissed Kiyone to thank her for her support and she returned the favor
by thanking him for thanking her.
Almost immediately, Washu burst out of her laboratory wild eyed. "HEY, GET IN HERE, ALL OF YOU!" "Tenchi looked at Washu with curiosity as to what the scientist was up to. "What is it Washu?" "I just got a message from Ryoko...I didn't check it out yet because..." She never finished because the entire gang stampeded over her heading straight into her room. "...because I wanted you all to see it..." She face vaulted in pain from the pounding she just took. A few minutes later when she awoke, she walked over to her console and punched up the message. "TADA!" She exclaimed but noted their confused look, then they face vaulted. Washu looked and saw it was in Alcaronian "Oopss...heh heh...don't worry, I'll have my computer translate it for us" She replied scratching the back of her head. After tapping a few buttons, the message came up in readable text.
They all looked in surprise and awe. The message read: `You have been invited by special request to attend a momentous event, the joining together of the new prince of Alcaron, Vin-Roc, and the soon to be princess of Alcaron, Ryoko. Please honor us by your presence at this most joyous of events'. Below the text was a picture included which showed both Vin-Roc and Ryoko holding one another in a close embrace. "Oh that's so beautiful..." Sasami was the first to note and began to cry, Mihoshi soon joined her. Washu sniffed a little bit (You did good Ryoko...real good...I'm proud of you...but now I gotta find a new partner!!) She face vaulted, but no one seemed to notice. Even Aeka was somewhat happy for Ryoko (Well...at least she won't be around here to cause any more problems for my...uh...Tenchi) She snickered to herself. Tenchi and Kiyone simply looked at the image, they both imagined the day when that would be them. Kiyone leaned over to Tenchi and whispered "You know
Tenchi...maybe we should get married too...I hear Alcaron is a beautiful place any time of the year..." He suddenly blushed over this sudden suggestion "Uh...well...uh...we'll talk about it on the way there okay?" She smiled and leaned over and hugged him "Whatever you say Tenchi, darling" He hugged her back, finally feeling that everything had worked out just right...almost as if someone had a hand in all of this. (Hmmm.... I wonder...nah...it doesn't matter...I only wish mother were here now though...I know she'd be happy with my choice...I just know it)
Outside the Masaki residence, off a little while away, there was a cave. In side the cave, there was a little girl who had been sleeping for sometime now. She did this on her own accord, knowing she was too much of a danger to others. She agreed to sleep until she was able to control her abilities. But before she truly went to sleep, Yugi decided she would do one last thing, to make up for all the trouble she had caused. (Well, I'm glad that all worked out, it wasn't easy getting them all together like that...even for me. Tenchi...I'm sorry about Sakuya, I never meant to hurt you...I only hope that this new love in your life will be enough to make up for that loss. She is a good person Tenchi, take care of her. Ryoko, please stay with him; I know he'll make you happy. Oh Sasami, we will have so much to talk about when I wake up...in a couple of years...so don't you worry! Just remember...never think you're too old...to wish upon star...you never know who's listening) Feeling
satisfied with a job well done, Yugi finally decided to get some rest. Outside, it was getting dark...and the stars were coming out.
I truly hope you all enjoyed my first work. I know that some may have a problem with Ryoko not getting with Tenchi, please don't take it personal. I simply wanted to try a different approach...I mean heck..who wouldn't want Ryoko?!
As always, please email all questions, comments and complaints (Although I would rather not get too many)
to yours truly at: [email protected].
Disclaimer: Any Tenchi characters in this fic
belong to AIC and Pioneer. If there are any
characters that you have not heard of, they are mine!
Any legal letters sent to claim money will be filled under "I" for important...right in the pail!
At the security post located on the edge of the Alcaron territory...none of the officers on board noticed any particular disturbances that day. They were completely unaware of the ship that had passed them over three hours ago and would never have guessed the identity of its occupant. Aboard the Heart of Darkness, Vin-Roc quietly meditated on his approaching target. He sat in darkness and set the computer to fly in under cloak. "Computer...estimated time of arrival?" The computer hummed slightly and spat out "Arrival will be in approximately two sub-jahs (two minutes Earth standard)" He leaned back, his face covered in the paint that signified his frame of mind, that being of red and black. He was only bringing with him his blade that had so many times in the past saved him from near death. He wanted no guns and no fancy tricks. If at all possible, he wanted to keep this as honorable as possible. "Now entering atmosphere of Alcaron...beginning final descent" "Computer...have
we been detected?" "Negative...all systems show planet on regular security levels" "Very well then..." The ship screamed across the sky but disturbed no homes or radar systems. "Closing in on Imperial Council Headquarters...shall I decrease our speed and begin landing procedures?" "Negative, continue at current speed, and prepare to open drop hatch...I must leave you now computer...you will continue on course and proceed to the nearest asteroid and await further command" "Understood...it was an honor working with you...if you do not succeed that is" "The same here computer..." The hatch opened and the ship's occupant dropped from the sky and decelerated its descent using light waves of energy to slow its' velocity. Upon landing, Vin-Roc quickly stole away into the shadows and approached the gates. Above him, his ship continues its course and quickly left the atmosphere. Tapping a few buttons on his console pad, he quickly faded from normal vision and soon blended into every
background that he touched.
At the gates, he quickly discovered that there were no guards at their post. "...they must have gotten my message...they're obviously expecting me...all the better" He leaped over the gates and proceeded towards the entrance of the headquarters. Blending from one background to another, he did his best to avoid the token soldiers that were left around in order to not let him feel too comfortable about the situation. He had no intention of fighting his own people if possible...he wanted to save his anger for the Council themselves. A sound from behind him caused him to reach for his blade by reflex, but held back when he noticed it was a soldier making a turn in the opposite direction. It was not a difficult environment to maneuver around; in fact it was rather simple. This was so because not many individuals ever entered these halls so hiding or confusing was not a major concern of the buildings design. Continuing up to the main door, he noticed two soldiers stationed in
front of the last obstacle that stood between himself and his redemption. Vin-Roc bounded from one wall to another finally landing behind the soldiers. He quickly struck them in sensitive pressure points and both soldiers went down. His heart began to race as he realized just what lay behind these doors. His hand was on the handle; nearly ready to turn it and enter when he stopped and pulled back. "Wait...I need a better approach than this...let me see...yes that will do...that will do most nicely" He focused his thoughts and energy into a single object; one he hoped would help to even the odds against his adversaries.
The Imperial Council was expecting his return and was not disappointed. The doors swung open and the one soldier they wanted eliminated more than anything else was standing before them. "Hmmm...I see this place has changed little since I was last here..." Vin-Roc smiled and shot a look at all five councilmen who returned the icy gaze back to him. "So...our beloved and favorite warrior has returned...I hope it was not too long of a wait for you..." The first councilman spoke, leaning forward bringing his face into full view. "You realize that by returning you have sealed your fate?" The second councilman spoke and he too leaned forward and brought his face into full view. "My fate...yes indeed I have...but I did not come here only to leave alone...I'm going to make it a point that I see each and every one of you...in HELL!!!" Vin-Roc's words echoed through the halls and some of the councilmen appeared nervous. "You do not think to best us...to bite the hand that fed
you...that made you what you are today...do you?" The fourth councilman spoke with authority and shook an elderly finger at him. "Fed me...the only thing you feed me...and every other person on this planet...was a pack of lies...now...enough talk...let us end this!" He straightened his stance and readied himself for battle. "As you wish dear Vin-Roc...it will be a shame to watch you die...we had such plans for you...you may have him"
The first councilman motioned to the fifth and he leaped from his seat landing a few yards away from Vin-Roc. "Well, shall we begin?" Vin-Roc motioned to the councilman and they both assumed their fighting stances. The councilman was the first to go and took a diving thrust at Vin-Roc who parried it away and answered with one of his own. It connected and the fifth councilman was thrown back. High above, the other councilman watched on as both combatants went back and forth, both delivering and avoiding one another's' shots. Finally, the fifth councilman went for the kill when he noticed Vin-Roc hesitated for a moment and showed a few signs of pain. He went in for a thundering blow, but was met with a hand to his midsection. With a mighty war cry, Vin-Roc pushed his hand straight through the midsection of the councilman who immediately spat blood. He looked at Vin-Roc and spoke "Was...was that...the hand of ...Seljin...?" "Indeed it was...goodbye councilman" Was his response
followed by a sickening crack as he snapped the spine of his adversary. The councilman fell dead into a pool of his own blood. Vin-Roc looked up and held an evil smile at the remaining council members. "So...who is next?" The board felt concerned never realizing that he would have made it this far. Suddenly, Vin-roc felt a warm sensation in his stomach. He looked down and saw the reason for this...his entire midsection had been shot through by a powerful beam. High above, the first councilman decided to end this and took aim and fired upon the soldier below, who finally fell dead too in his own blood.
"Well...that finally ends that little nuisance...what say we convene for today and..." He was interrupted by the sound of applause coming from a distance. Looking in the direction of the sound, they all strained to see in the dark what it was. "Very good councilman...very sneaky as well...but you did always lack honor..." His outline made it obvious who it was that was approaching them. He came over to the fallen body that was his exact in every way. Picking it up by the neck, he examined it and threw it into the corner, and then incinerated it. "Ah...the marvel of clones...a pity they don't keep up for too long...I knew you would do something like that...so I took a few moments to construct a clone to take my place...to help level the playing field..." The first councilman nodded to his tactfulness. "Truly, you are a survivor...an excellent tactician and a worth adversary...but...now the game shall end!"
With that, the four remaining councilmen leaped from their seats and fell to the ground, surrounding Vin-Roc on all four sides. Using the moment of surprise all four members engulfed Vin-Roc in a ball of energy. "This is how it shall end for you..." spoke the first. "You will die as a traitor..." Spoke the second. "We shall be hailed as heroes..." Spoke the third. "You will fade away...and forever be known as a failure" Spoke the fourth. "Arrrrrrrrgggggggggggghhhhhhhh!!!" He could fell himself losing consciousness. He never knew just how powerful they were, and the smell of his own flesh burning was proof enough. (I...can't...do it...too powerful...dammit...I failed...) He could still hear them taunting him, but their words were becoming harder and harder to discern. Just as he was about to die...he thought of his last words to the reason why he came back here. (What did I say...can't remember...think...WHAT WAS IT!!! Wait...I promised her.... "Ryoko...I promise you
this...when all of this is over...I'll come back for you...I swear it...just believe in me till then" I promised her...I must try...if nothing else...I MUST TRY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!) "AAARRGGGHHH...DAMN YOU...DAMN YOU ALL...TO HELL IS WHERE I WILL SEND YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" With that, he summed up all his hope, all his love, all his pain, all his loss, and all he stood to gain, and focused it into one last attack. The ensuing ball of energy he released cleaved off the entire right side of the palace and was felt nearly across the entire continent. Many in the distance looked to the sky and wondered...what could have possibly have done that? In what was the remaining part of the palace...the debris lay everywhere. In the distance, three councilmen tried to get to their feet. The managed to achieve this, vomited blood, and fell back down, and they remained there...dead. Vin-Roc staggered to get to his feet; he managed this and saw the other three councilmen fall
dead before him. He forced a smile but then realized one was still remaining.
A few yards off, he saw the first councilman push away some debris and wipe some blood from his face. "Outstanding...you have impressed me...you have done what countless races with armies numerous in size failed to do. Heh-heh...one man...one man indeed..." Both stood and realized this would be the final battle. The combatants drew their blades and in an instant were upon each other. One striking after another, most of their attacks were blocked, the ones that made their mark were slight ones. After some time though, the first councilman began to show his experience by avoiding Vin-Roc's slash and slicing him across his chest. Another two blows landed on Vin-Roc who was slowing down and bleeding rather badly. The councilman sensed victory and went in for the kill. The soldier knew he had only seconds to act. He stretched out his arm with blade in hand and reflected the sunlight from the gaping hole in the palace and shined it into the councilman's eyes. He was temporarily
blinded, but that was all Vin-Roc needed. Racing in, he took three mortal swipes across the councilman's midsection, all making their mark. He watched as his opponent tried to stand his ground, but eventually fell to one knee. "...very...very well indeed...cough...curse you...but you have...won...cough...won...thy freedom...use it...wisely" With that, the councilman collapsed. Vin-Roc looked to the heavens...badly bleeding, he knew his time left was short. "I...I did it...Ryoko...I did it...Annexia...soon...very soon...I shall join you...my wife...I shall join you...soon..." He dropped his blade and collapsed to the ground, and did not move again, his mission was complete...almost.
Ryoko shot up from her bed covered in sweat. It was well past midnight and the pirate suddenly felt deep inside her what she hoped would never happen. She immediately teleported out of the house and began flying as fast as she could...there were tears in her eyes as she approached a nearby mountain. (No....no...no...no...it can't be...it just can't be...you promised me...you promised me!!!!!!) Atop the mountain, Ryoko cleared her throat and looked up to the moon. She let out a scream that would wake any who would hear her cry of remorse..."NNNNNNNNNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" But she already knew it was true. She stayed the rest of the night atop the mountain, sitting with her head buried in her shoulders sobbing, but never slept.
The celebration at the Masaki's was a special one indeed. It had been three months since Kiyone and Tenchi had returned to Earth together, and were now celebrating the announcement of their engagement. Mihoshi was so happy for her partner she was the first to cry. Sasami had made a special meal for everyone on this day. Tenchi's father was so proud of him for taking the next step in becoming a man and Grandfather had requested that when the time comes it be he that delivers the wedding. Washu was happy for them both, but was still very concerned with her partner Ryoko. She stood by the door of her laboratory and tried to look happy as Sasami tried offering her some snacks. Everyone was having a great time...that is except for one person in particular.
Outside by the lake, Ryoko looked at the peaceful body of water, wishing her life was as calm and smooth. (I...never said goodbye...never said that I...) "Ryoko" Tenchi called out to her as he approached. He was walking towards her when he said "Ryoko...why don't you come inside...please?" She still had her back to him...she couldn't face him knowing that she had lost two people in such a short time. "Tenchi...I...I have to go for a while" His first reaction was that of shock. He couldn't believe that she would do this, but then he realized that she needed her space and he respected that decision. "He's gone you know?" she mentioned to him. "No...I didn't...I'm so sorry...how did you know?" Tenchi felt even more surprised by this news. "It's a feeling...that I know is true" She wished so dearly she was wrong. "Will you ever some back again?" Tenchi didn't want her to leave like this. "I...don't know...I've lost two people now in my life...I don't have much reason to stay
here...but before I go...I want you to have this" She took his hand and quickly put the contents in his palm. He looked at her gift and tried to protest, "But Ryoko...this is the crystal I gave you...this what brought us together...why?" he was trying to understand the meaning of this "Don't get the wrong idea Tenchi...I still care about you...nothing will ever change that...but you're going to need this more than I will. You have someone now that you have to protect...please...take it" Reluctantly, Tenchi nodded his head and turned her around. He saw she was crying and wanted so badly to make her pain go away. This time though, there would be no easy solutions...so he did the next best thing...he kissed her. "I...I would have waited forever for that Tenchi...thank you..." She hugged him and turned heading towards her ship.
Kiyone soon came out to look for Tenchi when she saw him by the lake with his hands by his side. She came up behind him and put her arm around him and leaned her head on his shoulder. "What is it Tenchi?" she wanted to know what had him so down. "It's...Ryoko she left...and gave me this" He showed her the crystal, which made her gasp. "No...she's still my friend...its just that...she said I would need it more than her...that I have someone to protect...and she was right..." Tenchi turned around and took Kiyone in a close embrace "I love you Kiyone" She felt her heart skip a beat every time he said that to her and she kissed him. "Come on, let's go back inside, they're all looking for us" They turned and started walking back to the house. (Thanks Ryoko...for understanding...for being there...for everything...please come back soon) Above, Ryoko's ship accelerated out of Earth's orbit and headed towards nowhere in particular.
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On a planet far off in the Alevian Galaxy, the inhabitants of one of the larger cities on this planet was having its annual Festival of Life and the lights from the city could be seen for a great distance in all directions. Many were flocking from all over to participate and join in on the joyous festivities. It was getting on in the day heading towards evening and the participants were getting ready for things to really pickup. In the distance, outside of town, a lonely figure sat atop a rocky cliff overlooking the ocean watching the waves crash down below. Under normal circumstances, this would have been a truly inspirational sight, but this was not to be.
Ryoko simply sat there alone, watching the waves crash back and forth. She felt the waves were like her life. They would constantly come in strong from nowhere, but would then crash and cease to exist, and the cycle would continue. It reminded her of her emotions and relationships. They would come on strong and she would be happy, but then because of circumstances usually beyond her control, things would abruptly turn and go south. The pirate sat there quietly, contemplating a number of things, and of nothing in particular. The sky was getting dark, and the stars would be coming out soon. (I just can't seem to get it right...what do I have to do before...before I can finally win for a change?) She decided then that the best thing to do was something she would never try under the usual circumstances. Ryoko was not the one who believed in fairy tales or knights in shinning armor coming to rescue a damsel in distress. But this time, she was willing to try...and to believe. She
put her hands together, lowered her head and closed her eyes. With her heart open for the heavens to hear her, she whispered... "Starlight, starbrite, first star I see tonight, wish I may, wish I might, have the wish I wish tonight...I have lived too long and have lost so much...if nothing else I ask for is..." She started to cry "is to finally win...win the heart of the one I truly love and to make it last always...please believe me...if nothing else I ask for...please...hear me" She wiped her eyes and never noticed the first star out in the sky streaking past her, and that it heard her prayer.
"Well...I never thought the great Ryoko was ever the hopeless romantic..." A voice form behind spoke. She had no idea that this voice belonged to someone who had been standing there for quite sometime and had too heard her prayer. "Mister...you picked a really bad time to mess with me...get ready to..." Ryoko was beginning to power up an energy blast in her hand when she fully turned around. Looking up, she saw the origin of the voice. A tall individual, clad entirely in black with a flowing cape stood there and simply smiled at her. At first, this only served to anger her even more...until she looked into his eyes...and realized who was in front of her. "Oh...my...god...it can't be...can it?" The tears began to fall from her eyes again "Oh please don't tease me...it can't be...please tell me!!!" She wiped her eyes thinking she was seeing things. When she was done, the figure was still there and still smiling at her. "It...it...it is you...but how...I thought you were" "I
was" spoke Vin-Roc. "But...as I was dying, I remembered...remembered that I made you a promise...and I had every intention of keeping that promise...that is what brought me back from death" Ryoko hand a hand over her moth still completely in shock. "It wasn't easy finding you...you seem to move quite a number of times...but now..."
His demeanor changed to a more serious one "Now that I found you...l wanted to tell you...I did it, my time for running is over. I don't have to hide, I don't need to live in fear anymore...the Council is no more, and my name has been cleared. But there still is a part of me that is not complete" She waited to hear the rest his words hanging on to every last one of them "That part is you Ryoko; you are the missing part of my life. I have my whole life ahead of me...but I don't want it to be without you. Please...come back with me...you don't need to be alone anymore" Ryoko simply stared at him with her head swirling with thoughts and confusement. (Can it be...did someone really hear my wish...and answer it...what do I do?) He could feel how confusing this must have been to her. He simply stretched out his hand to her "please Ryoko...I love you...come back with me...please" At that, Ryoko quickly ran past his hand and threw herself into his arms. She whispered into his ear "I
will never lose you again...I promise!" Tears for two fell that night as the festivities began off in the direction of the city.
"But it's been three months already!" Tenchi spoke with a bit of panic in his voice. All of the family was gathered in the living room trying to console Tenchi, including Kiyone who had taken a seat by his side. She held his hand looking at the matching engagement rings they wore. (I wish there was something I could do for him...he really is worried about her). "Look Tenchi, don't worry, Ryoko will be fine, she's a big girl and can take care of herself. Besides, she hasn't gone and committed any crimes or we would have heard something by now" Tenchi felt a little more relieved and grateful for having such a caring person in his life like Kiyone...he really had made the right choice. At first, Aeka was very upset about him choosing Kiyone over her, but after a short while, the princess accepted and respected his choice, though she was still determined to find a way into his heart somehow. He leaned over and kissed Kiyone to thank her for her support and she returned the favor
by thanking him for thanking her.
Almost immediately, Washu burst out of her laboratory wild eyed. "HEY, GET IN HERE, ALL OF YOU!" "Tenchi looked at Washu with curiosity as to what the scientist was up to. "What is it Washu?" "I just got a message from Ryoko...I didn't check it out yet because..." She never finished because the entire gang stampeded over her heading straight into her room. "...because I wanted you all to see it..." She face vaulted in pain from the pounding she just took. A few minutes later when she awoke, she walked over to her console and punched up the message. "TADA!" She exclaimed but noted their confused look, then they face vaulted. Washu looked and saw it was in Alcaronian "Oopss...heh heh...don't worry, I'll have my computer translate it for us" She replied scratching the back of her head. After tapping a few buttons, the message came up in readable text.
They all looked in surprise and awe. The message read: `You have been invited by special request to attend a momentous event, the joining together of the new prince of Alcaron, Vin-Roc, and the soon to be princess of Alcaron, Ryoko. Please honor us by your presence at this most joyous of events'. Below the text was a picture included which showed both Vin-Roc and Ryoko holding one another in a close embrace. "Oh that's so beautiful..." Sasami was the first to note and began to cry, Mihoshi soon joined her. Washu sniffed a little bit (You did good Ryoko...real good...I'm proud of you...but now I gotta find a new partner!!) She face vaulted, but no one seemed to notice. Even Aeka was somewhat happy for Ryoko (Well...at least she won't be around here to cause any more problems for my...uh...Tenchi) She snickered to herself. Tenchi and Kiyone simply looked at the image, they both imagined the day when that would be them. Kiyone leaned over to Tenchi and whispered "You know
Tenchi...maybe we should get married too...I hear Alcaron is a beautiful place any time of the year..." He suddenly blushed over this sudden suggestion "Uh...well...uh...we'll talk about it on the way there okay?" She smiled and leaned over and hugged him "Whatever you say Tenchi, darling" He hugged her back, finally feeling that everything had worked out just right...almost as if someone had a hand in all of this. (Hmmm.... I wonder...nah...it doesn't matter...I only wish mother were here now though...I know she'd be happy with my choice...I just know it)
Outside the Masaki residence, off a little while away, there was a cave. In side the cave, there was a little girl who had been sleeping for sometime now. She did this on her own accord, knowing she was too much of a danger to others. She agreed to sleep until she was able to control her abilities. But before she truly went to sleep, Yugi decided she would do one last thing, to make up for all the trouble she had caused. (Well, I'm glad that all worked out, it wasn't easy getting them all together like that...even for me. Tenchi...I'm sorry about Sakuya, I never meant to hurt you...I only hope that this new love in your life will be enough to make up for that loss. She is a good person Tenchi, take care of her. Ryoko, please stay with him; I know he'll make you happy. Oh Sasami, we will have so much to talk about when I wake up...in a couple of years...so don't you worry! Just remember...never think you're too old...to wish upon star...you never know who's listening) Feeling
satisfied with a job well done, Yugi finally decided to get some rest. Outside, it was getting dark...and the stars were coming out.
I truly hope you all enjoyed my first work. I know that some may have a problem with Ryoko not getting with Tenchi, please don't take it personal. I simply wanted to try a different approach...I mean heck..who wouldn't want Ryoko?!
As always, please email all questions, comments and complaints (Although I would rather not get too many)
to yours truly at: [email protected].