Another room:

In another room on board the GP vessel, two other passengers prepare for a good nights rest, before their arrival on the paradise vacation planet, Plesruis.  They are called Tenchi and Noboyuki Masaki.   As the elder Masaki sits on his bed, cleaning one of his many camera lens, the younger man sits up on his bed, staring at his feet.

"What's the matter son?" the glasses wearing father asked, blowing on the large glass lens in his hand, all the while never looking up.  Indeed there was no need.  He had known his son since birth, which had given Noboyuki a sort of sixth sense for when something troubled the young man. "Are you worried about our vacation?  Don't worry, I'm sure no one will laugh at your swim trunks this time."

"It's not that, dad.  It's… well it's… I really can't say." The downcast youth admitted, moving his leg, causing something to bulge in his pants pocket.   Something small and box shaped. 

With a caring sigh, the older man set down his equipment walking over to sit by his son.  "I knew this day would come one day," he admitted.  "So," he coughed, placing one arm around his son's shoulder.  "Which one of the girls did you get pregnant?  Was it Ryoko?  She's a pretty hot one.  As a matter of fact I'm a little sad that it took you this long to sleep with her.  I mean she is always throwing herself on you.  To be honest I was a little worried you were becoming gay on me, but it was a relief to see the two of you sneaking off together the other night."

"What!  No, and how do you know about that?"  Tenchi asked, leaning away from his father.

"Never mind that now," the peeping tom father hurried stated, not wanting to discuss his prying techniques. "So I guess it wasn't her.  It wasn't Lady Ayeka was it?  I suppose that would make sense after all.  Those quiet girls are always wild animals in bed.  Am I right?" he asked nudging his son's side. 

"Ah!" the young man screamed, offended at his dad's remarks. "I did not sleep with Ayeka!"

"Mihoshi then?" the black-haired pervert interjected.  "She does have a nice figure."  At that moment the older Masaki paused, letting his mind drift momentarily to the dark-skinned detective's figure.  "You know I never figured you one to go for a person like her.  I mean you being such a book worm and all."

Placing his hands on his face, knowing his father wasn't about to drop this conversation anytime soon Tenchi shook his head. 

"Kiyone?  She is very good looking.  Although she does seem pretty career orientated.  I don't think it was smart to try and start a relationship with someone like that." The architect dad proclaimed, before noticing his sons head nod.

"Is it Washu then?" Noboyuki stammered, "She is the opposite of Mihoshi."  In more ways than one… he mentally shivered, picturing the comparison between the tanned busty GP officer and the diminutive genius.  Still I do recall Ryoko and Ayeka saying something about Washu turning into an adult.  I wonder what she'd look like….

"Look dad," the part Jurain prince began sitting up finally.

"OH MY GOD!" the elder man screamed leaping away from his son as if he were carrying some horrible disease.  "You didn't… with Sasami… or Ryo-Ohki…!"

"Dad, that's sick!" Tenchi replied standing up to face his father.  "I didn't sleep with anyone! That's not what I wanted to ask you about."

"Then what is this all about?"

"This," the young man said, pulling the bulging item out of his pants, handing it to his father.  Casting a confused look at his son, the disturbed human slowly took the small black fuzzy box from his son, opening it with care. 

"Oh…I see."

"Yeah," the sought after young man admitted sinking back to his bed.  "How did you know?  About mom, I mean."

Closing the item in his hand with a swift hand motion, the older man handed it back to his son.  "I don't know.  I mean there really wasn't a set time or place.  It was just something I always knew I suppose.  So when are you going to ask, if you decide to that is?"

"I don't know," Tenchi said, his voice betraying his nervousness.  "I mean if I ask this question you know what will probably happen, right?"

"Not a clue," the perverse human responded. 

"It means it could be the end of everything.  If I make this choice, the others will be heart broken, and…"

"Yeah but you picked Ryoko to be Mayuka's mother and everyone is still here." The elder Masaki offered hoping in vain that his statement might ease his sons suffering.

"True, yet I don't know, I think this time things are different."

"Okay then… so who is it?  Who did you pick?"  Noboyuki asked, deciding to change the topic slightly.

Tenchi didn't say a word.  Instead he merely met his father's eyes with his own.  In them echoed the answer, one which was both shocking yet at the same time completely logical.

Clearing his throat the older man looked at his son, "Tenchi… I know you're already stressed out, but there is something I need to ask you, and it's very important."

"What is it dad?"  The young man sighed wondering what his father would ask of him.

"Have you seen my camera?  It's an older model, but it is worth quiet a bit of money, and I'd really like to get it back."

Yet Another Bedroom:

 "Sasami," Ayeka chimed knocking on the door before her tenderly yet energetically.  "It is time for bed." 

Pausing the purple-haired princess's mood seemed to melt, as she bit her lip and cast her eyes downward.  "Sasami! That's long enough in the bathroom," the red-eyed woman proclaimed crossing her legs in a vain attempt to hide her need to use the facility. 

Finally after what had seemed like hours, the door opened and out stepped a small girl with a rabbit like creature perched upon her head.  "It's all yours Ayeka."  Sasami Jurai said sleepily.

Bowing her head politely the older sister dashed into the small room as fast as her slender legs could carry her. 

Minutes later:

With a refreshed and relaxed look on her face, the young princess stepped out of the restroom.  Casting her eyes to the side, Ayeka smiled tenderly as she saw her sibling preparing to climb into her bed, Ryo-Ohki still sitting atop her head.  "Sasami, take that disgusting creature off your head.  You really have no clue where it's been…."

"Yes sister," the blue-haired child answered, bowing her head so the little creature could hop down.  As it did, the little cabbit's front paws hit the bed first, and the pint-sized ship tucked itself into a roll, in an attempt to cheer her friend.   However the golden-eyed creature had misjudged the distance from Sasami to the edge of the bed, and continued to roll until she fell from the bed.  Laughing the pink-eyed child reached down and picked up her friend, whispering to the cabbit about a secret only the two of them shared. 

It is good to see Sasami enjoying herself again.  I was rather worried after she told us about that dream of hers. *  The first princess of Jurai thought as she prepared herself for bed.  Of course, she is still so young.  I forget that sometimes.  It is that youthfulness that causes her imagination to run away with her.  If it would not upset her, I would have laughed at the notion of some black armored demon killing everyone while some parody of our brother, Yosho, watched it all happen.     

I am glad we all decided to take this vacation.  We all need it, of that I am certain.  Kiyone and I work so hard around the house, and each of us has to watch over someone.  While I have Sasami, she has Mihoshi.  Smiling, the lithe woman climbed into bed beside her sister, I suppose it is just another reason I should be glad I am who I am.  Lord Tenchi, brother Yosho, and Tenchi's father are all very hard workers.  Miss Washu has been a great help with getting my Ryo-Oh growing again, as well as rebuilding Lord Tenchi's house each time Mihoshi breaks it.  And then Ryoko…well I suppose lying around playing with Mayuka is difficult for her….  Still I would have been able to relax easier if that monster woman had been left behind on Earth, but I suppose it was unavoidable that she would come. 

Sighing deeply, the purple-haired princess rolled over.  The thought that Lord Tenchi kissed that monster woman sickens me.  Still I do appreciate his telling me. *3   However I promised myself that I would do everything in my power to free him from her horrible grasp.  Anything at all….  With those final thoughts, the silky skinned woman quietly drifted off to sleep, thoughts of her beloved prince filling her head.

The Kitchen and Dining Hall:

The dining area of most GP vessels is occasionally called a Mess hall, and currently the name fits the kitchen perfectly.  Scattered about the stove and counters were countless spills of flour, sauces, and other ingredients, while at the very center stood a very determined looking young woman, her large mane of red hair held back only by a single band across her head.  How does Sasami make this look so easy, Washu asked herself, carefully tasting her own cooking. To her joy, the current batch of noodles did NOT make her skin turn green from revulsion, or cause her to nearly loose consciousness.  Well it's not that bad, I guess.  I wish I had Sasami save more of our dinner, and then I wouldn't have had to spend so long trying to make something to eat. 

Picking up the large pot with two nearby towels, the little woman casually walked towards the dining room table.  With a shock, the super genius set down the pot, noticing she was no longer alone. "Hello, Lord Katsuhito," she remarked looking at the gray-haired man dressed in long white robes.  "Have you been here long?"

"Not really," Jurai's heir remarked. "I heard someone in the kitchen, and thought I might join them for a snack.  Now what did you make?"  He asked, leaning forward to inspect Washu's creation.  It took all his regal training to suppress a frown.  He assumed the concoction was some form of soup and noodles, yet its black color and smell made it impossible to determine the exact origin of the dish. 

"Here ya go," the emerald-eyed woman chimed, plopping a heaping helping of the black mass into a bowl before handing it to her friend.  "Bon Appetite."

Taking a bite timidly, the old warrior swallowed down the disgusting looking mixture, finding its taste to match its appearance.  Realizing eating any more could be fatal, the eldest Masaki decided it would be time to make his true purpose known.  I did not know Washu would be here, I suppose it is good fortune, as I was looking for her anyway.

"Tell me Washu," the old man asked finally, setting his bowl of noodles down.  "Do you feel it as well?"

"Feel what," the red-haired genius asked through a mouthful of food, slurping disgustingly.  "There isn't anything still alive in it is there?"

Shuddering inwardly, the prince shook his head 'no.'  "What I man is that a change is coming." The Shinto priest proclaimed. "Whether for good or bad, I cannot say.  However I feel this trip will alter our lives greatly."

Shrugging, the small scientist grabbed herself another helping of the bubbling food.  "Hey, anything is possible, especially with these clowns involved."  Bobbing her head towards the door, Washu knew her older companion understood her meaning completely. 

"I see," he whispered in his ancient voice.  "Well I won't keep you from your meal.  I thank you for the cuisine, it was most nourishing."

"That's how a Jurain prince would say it was edible, right?"  The green-eyed woman laughed, knowing her knowledge of cooking paled greatly compared to Sasami, who made it appear as if it were the easiest task to accomplish.

After sharing a brief laugh, the Jurain prince turned, heading out the door back to his quarters.

The Nursery:

As everyone else settled down for the night Ryoko and her small companion prepared for bed.  "In you go, Mayuka," she whispered to the small infant in her arms, placing her into the crib.  With a happy giggle, the dark blue haired girl moved about in her bed.  "Now, now, none of that."  The lithe woman warned.  "We can play some more in the morning." 

The little girl merely waved at the busty space pirate, "buh bye…" she said, saying the only phrase she knew. 

Waving back happily, the formidable woman chuckled.  "No silly, not bye-bye, goodnight…." With that the golden-eyed mother leaned back, floating beside the crib as she waited for her child to fall asleep.  Listening to Mayuka's breathing slow, the spiky haired woman allowed her thoughts to drift to the day's events.

Well getting Kiyone and Mihoshi to trail Tenchi, was easy.  She admitted to herself.  Of course it was shocking to learn they're a couple too, but HEY I'm an open-to-anything kind of girl.  If only I could make Tenchi see that….  I wonder how long it'll take those two to learn anything?  Probably forever, but as long as they hold up they're end, I guess I'll give them this film back… of course, not until AFTER I've made plenty of copies and stashed away the negatives.  And here I though the only thing I'd find interesting to take a picture of would be either me, Tenchi, or both of us naked.  Good thing I stole Noboyuki's camera.  I wonder if it's worth anything…. 

Shaking her head, the lithe woman held up the precious roll of film between her thumb and pointer finger, before sliding it between her breasts for safekeeping.  Good and safe.  The only way I'll give that back is if Tenchi gets it out.  Smiling to herself, the seductive woman let her thoughts settle on that idea.  "Mmmm…. Tenchi," she whispered before drifting off to sleep floating high in the air above the sleeping youth, both women oblivious to the world around them. 

The Next Day:

An Arriving Shuttle:

On board one of the arriving shuttlecraft, a young woman sat staring out the window.  Her long pink hair was done up into a ponytail in the back, which still left enough hair for it to hand in two long strands down the sides of her face and be frayed at the front.  Her orange eyes looked at the approaching planet, making her stomach feel ill at ease.  We're almost there, she thought happily, yet at the same time with great sadness.  It's already been a year, but finally I'm going to see Lued and Sakuya again.  I just wish I could have come alone….

Sitting next to her, stern faced, as always, was a young man who piloted the large vessel.  His steel blue eyes looked forward with a grim determination as if he were waiting for something. 

""You know, Mehk," the pink-haired woman began, turning to face him.  "You really didn't have to come with me.  I'll be all right on Plesruis.  I mean it is not like I haven't been there before without you, and I don't want you depressing the girls like you always do.  Besides, this was supposed to be my trip, not ours.  You could have at least let me fly us there!"

"All that may be true," the man with azure blue hair combed forward to a point stretching far past his brow admitted.  "But you just broke up with your boyfriend and I am… concerned about you, sister dear.  Do not worry.  I will stay out of your plans.  Think of me as your guardian angel.  I will keep the riff-raff away while you and the others enjoy yourselves."

"Talk like that is why you don't get more dates," she commented looking away, knowing her brother was changing to a beet red color from her comment.  "If you weren't so uptight, I'm sure I could set you up with Lued or Sakuya.  They both think you are kinda cute, you know?"

"Halley," he hissed, casting her a stern look.  "I do not need your aid in selecting a date.  I am perfectly capable of finding a woman on my own.  Besides, you know I am engaged.  Unlike the way you spend your life, mine is very structured and exists to further peace and our families good name."

"Yeah, sounds like a blast…. Soooo…. is that why you keep a picture of my friends in your wallet?"  She smiled before sighing and returning her focus to the planet coming up in front of them.  Beside her Mehk continued to explain himself with little success, and soon her thoughts seemed to leave her body.  How can I have any fun with big brother watching me every minute?  Still, I guess I shouldn't complain.  At least father isn't getting involved in my fun.  Then it would really be a pain.  I just hope something amusing presents itself.  I've been bored for so long now…. 

With a groan, the young woman shook such dismal thoughts from her head, as more joyous ones presented themselves.  Of course hanging out with the girls might be just the break I need.  I wonder what they've been up to?  I never hear from them anymore, not like the old days.  Back then we used to meet and talk all the time, but that was before their careers got going.  Before they got accepted into The Academy and The Galaxy Police.  But there's no time for complaining.  This is gonna be great, I can see it all now!  Volley ball, boy hunting, shopping, and not to mention a fancy hotel with room service!  Yeah!  This is going to be exciting!

Look at her, the azure-haired brother thought, shaking his head slowly.  I can't believe she's wearing such an odd outfit, not to mention her current hair color….  As he subconsciously flew the shuttle, the young man's eyes followed his sister's arms, focusing on two strips of white cloth wrapped tightly around the entire length of her forearms.  Each time he saw those cloths, it brought a surge of pain into his heart, as they served as constant reminders of his failure. 

Damn bands…. The angry youth growled mentally.  They exist as symbols of my inadequacy, and a beacon of my failure.  Because she wears them, I have to be here. He admitted to himself.  I didn't watch over her once, didn't protect her as a brother should, and now that day haunts me unendingly. 

Flashback:

It was a warm summer day, and two children stood in a large clearing in the woods near their home.  The little boy stood, his arms crossed over his body watching the little girl with short tuffs of dark blue hair as she ran about in circles trying to catch the countless butterflies that inhabited the sea of flowers around her.  Nearby a stream trickled by, adding its soothing sounds to the area around them.  

I can't believe mother and father made me watch Halley.  The young man complained to himself.  Mehk scowled as he recalled his mother's words. 

"Make sure you watch my little girl, remember she's very special.  I don't want anything to happen to her."

Special?  I don't see what's so great about her.  She's just a little girl, I don't see why someone has to watch her every minute, I mean I thought we came to Plesruis to relax and unwind.  Instead all we've done is baby-sit Halley….

"'Hey, big brov-ooh?  Will you p'ay hide and seek wif me?"  The little girl said her tiny voice showing her age. 

With a horrible moan the azure-haired boy looked to the sky above, "all right.  Why not… you go hide, and I'll find you…."

"'Kay," she giggled taking off as fast as her short legs would take her, running into the trees, pausing for a moment to yell back.  "Don't watch me!"

"I won't," Mehk promised still looking upwards. 

"Turn around!"

With yet another moan, the steel-blue-eyed boy turned around.  Even thought he could not see her, the young brother could still hear the little girl's laughter echoing in the trees. 

"Ready or not," he called finally when he was tired of waiting, "here I come."  Turning about the young man looked towards the woods.  He was mildly surprised that he could not see his sister instantly.   She's getting better, he admitted to himself.  

Ten Minutes Later:

All right, this is ridiculous.  The rich boy growled looking around the seemingly endless woods.  "Halley!  Come on out!  You win…   Halley?  This isn't funny…!" 

One hour later:

By the river:

Feeling his heart beating faster, the young man raced around the area.  Where is she?  Halley can't stay quiet this long.  She's got way too much energy.  It was then the young Minkay male reached a clearing in the woods, and found his sister.  It was a sight that would forever scar his young mind.

End Flashback:

Back in the cockpit:

When I found her by the stream….  He recalled.  She was hurt so badly… but somehow, SOMEHOW, she survived. 

At first I thought she had fallen down, but no fall could have made those kinds of injuries.  Even as a child I knew that.  Something, or someone, would have had to hurt her.  But still to this day, I can't fathom why anyone would want to hurt my sister.  True she's a little possessive, yet only about those she cares about.

I still see the look she gave me, when I picked her up.  It was one of both sadness and joy.  Halley looked so weak, so vulnerable and frail.  I thought she was going to break if I touched her.  When I'd asked what happened, she was too scared to tell me.  I rushed her home, and mom called the doctors, but they were so slow.  I thought they would never come, but they did.  Yet even doing everything they could, she still lapsed into a coma, only for a week, but that's a week of her life she can never take back.

I can still hear and feel the pain in mother's voice when she asked me how I could have let this happen.  Because of me Halley nearly died, because I failed to watch over her.  I don't know what happened to you, sis.  Mehk paused looking over at his pink-haired sibling who watched the approaching planet with great interest, all the while subconsciously adjusting the long strips of white cloth wrapped around both her forearms, covering from just under her wrist to the middle of her forearm. 

No one really does, since you refuse to talk about it.  Indeed it's almost like you forgot about it completely.  But I never will.  Not as long as you still have those strange marks on your arms, and wear those silly wrappings to hide them.  I vowed that day to never take your life for granite again, and that no one would hurt you, not as long as I can draw breath and steel.   With a final cleansing breath, the young man patted his sword, which hung from his side. 

That's why I'm with you now.  I fear the future, as I soon will be taken from you, and thus my vow to myself will be shattered.  However I have done my best to become the best protector possible, so that you will never again be hurt, in anyway, by anyone.       

Planet Plesruis:

The Docking Bay/ Activity Center:

Planet Plesruis is known far and wide as one of the greatest vacation spots in the charted galaxies.  Tourists from all over the universe come here for rest and relaxation.  From its sparkling shores, to its lush jungles and massive shopping areas, there is something for everyone here.  It is a place of unparalleled joy where no one is ever worried, scared, or unhappy.   Perhaps that is why the screams that currently fill the air are so out of place. 

"Come on Tenchi," a silver-haired woman pleaded dragging a brown–haired youth behind her as he struggled desperately to break her iron grip.  "Let's go swimming, the ocean here is perfect!"

"Ryoko," the young man pleaded, as he tried to keep his hold on the massive shoulder bags he carried, "I don't have my swimsuit on!"

"Well that's alright!  We can go skinny dipping!" The golden-eyed woman chuckled stopping suddenly so the rushing prince slammed into her chest.  "I keep forgetting how forward you are.  I suppose we could go back to the hotel…."

"Miss Ryoko!" Ayeka screamed, pushing the two of them apart. "I will not have you making such horrible suggestions to Lord Tenchi!"

"What's the matter, little princess?  Is your-" However the lithe woman's insult was never finished, as a loud scream filled the air.  It was one that all three of these young friends knew very well.  Turning, almost in unison, everyone noticed the source of the disturbance.

"Oh, please don't cry, Mayuka!"  Mihoshi said, her own blue eyes beginning to tear up.  "Kiyone, what did I do?  Do you think she's sick?"  Beside the ditzy blonde, the teal-haired detective could only sigh.

"Give her back to Ryoko, Mihoshi."  Kiyone groaned. "I'm sure she'll know what to do."

"Here," an innocent voice said from beside the two GP officers, as a rattle appeared before them.  Looking over the two women saw Sasami, dressed in a lemon-yellow sundress.  Perched atop the blue-haired girl's large matching hat, which was adorned with a white bow, was her constant companion Ryo-Ohki.  "You dropped Mayuka's favorite toy.  That's all that's wrong."

"Sasami!" the elder princess shouted sounding offended. "You must remember to use proper grammar and etiquette.  Not to mention that it is improper to hand an heir to Jurai's throne a toy that has been lying upon the ground.  It could be infested with countless germs.  We do not want her getting sick while we are on vacation do we?"

"But, Ayeka…" the little princess whined.

"None of that, Sister." The purple-haired Jurain proclaimed. "Once the others catch up with the luggage, we can go back to the hotel room.  I hope you remembered the lessons mother sent you."

"Yes I did," Sasami moped, shrugging the shoulder containing the oversized suitcase with her books, "but can't they wait until later.  I want to go to the beach with everyone else."

Standing before her younger sibling, the red-eyed woman sighed.  "Now sister," she began placing a hand on the depressed child's shoulder.  "You promised mother you would keep up with your royal lessons while we were away from Planet Jurai, and I have not been making you do them lately.  However I would be doing you a grand disservice if I did not make you study.  I know it seems harsh, but trust me it is for your future."

"Okay… I guess…"

"Aw, lighten up Ayeka," a nasal voice interrupted.  "Don't depress the kid just as we're getting off the shuttle."

"Lighten up," the purple haired woman gasped sounding very insulted.  "Little Washu, if Sasami does not study, she will be in no condition to lead our people when it is time for her to take up the throne, and the official responsibilities of the title as princess of Jurai."

"Yeah, but we don't go on vacation THAT often.  I don't think it's going to hurt anything to miss a few lessons," the young looking genius said, holding her arms wide open as if it were as obvious as her outfit, an old academy uniform.  "Heck even my machines in the lab need to be shut off occasionally, or they'll break.  You and Sasami are living creatures, you HAVE to learn to relax or you'll end up getting all wrinkly before you even get to be 800."

"You do not understand," the purple-haired woman proclaimed despite how worried getting wrinkles made her. "Being princess is not something which can be turned on and off like a machine.  There is a great deal of power and privileges to our throne and name, yet at the same time there is also an even greater sense of duty and responsibility to go with it."

"All I'm asking is that you let Sasami be a kid while she's young," Washu mentioned biting her lip as she tried to remain civil, as Ayeka's comment about machines had gotten under the red-haired woman' skin. "After all, her future is even more uncertain that yours or mine, remember she is bound to Tsunami…."

Nice one, Ryoko mentally complimented her mother.  I figured Ayeka must have burned you with that machine comment. 

Aren't we being civil?  Washu responded as the purple-haired princess continued to expand on the endless virtues of the lineage of Jurai's royal family, and, of course, her own purity and grace.  Why not compliment me out loud?  Do I detect a hint of maturity in my daughter's thoughts?  Don't want to hurt Ayeka's feelings?  Hmmm….

Bite me, Washu, the silver-haired woman snapped.  I just don't want Ayeka talking to me.  I hear her squeaky voice enough every other day, why invite her to talk to me even more?

I should have known there was a logical reason.   The 20000-year-old mother said shaking her head in defeat.  So much for Ryoko maturing.  Some things never change….

"Hey wait up you guys," Tenchi's father screamed from far behind, doing his best to carry the entire load of luggage on his own. "It's not easy carrying all this stuff.  It's real heavy and-" Suddenly the black-haired father screamed, as something rushed past him quickly, bumping into him and causing the massive load he bore to shift.  Soon he was buried under a mountain of luggage, many of which had sprung open, dumping their contents all over him. 

Hearing the peeping tom's screams, all arguments came to a halt as the girls, Lord Katsuhito, and Tenchi turned their attention to the blurred figure as she raced past them. As the figure slowed it became obvious that it was a young woman, one wearing a white tank top with puffy sleeves and a pure white sailor skirt.  Atop her head, a huge mane of pink hair waved in the air behind her as she raced towards two other, equally excited, young women. * 4

"Halley!" another youth cried out excitedly as the slowing woman formed a circle with the ecstatic women.  The screaming young lady wore a GP officer's hat.  Yet that was where the refinement ended, as the remainder of what she 'wore' was only a bright pink bikini top and a rather ragged looking pair of short shorts, which barely covered the bottom half of her swimsuit.  All in all her outfit was as close to being naked on the beach as one could legally come.    The entire outfit was extremely, almost excessively, revealing, especially in the chest area showing much of her tanned flesh.  Atop her head, short flaming red hair bounced with the rest of her as she leapt up and down upon seeing the new arrival, causing her chest to jiggle and her straw hat to nearly fly from her head. * 4

"You're finally here," The third girl, a black-haired woman with intense green eyes screamed as she joined the others in jumping up and down excitedly.  Unlike her comrades, however this woman had a more refined look to her, choosing to wear It was obvious to everyone watching her that the young woman did not see much sunlight, yet she was not unhealthy looking.  Instead her skin was a pearly white, looking silky smooth and clean.  Her general attire, which was composed of a beach towel, sporting the cast of a rather popular goddess based anime, wrapped conservatively about her waist, with a tight white T-shirt, was one of extreme professionalism.  *4

"Lued, Sakuya," yet another screamed.  Turning from the fallen father, Tenchi and the gang soon saw who had bumped into Noboyuki, and why. 

"Excuse me!"  The purple haired princess shouted, disgusted to see her things scattered all over the floor of the spaceport.  "There is no reason to be so rude!  Look at what you have done to my luggage!" She roared pointing towards Tenchi's father, who was currently looking content as he found himself covered in the ladies lingerie and panties.

Behind the vengeful Jurain woman, Ryoko shook Noboyuki violently as she held him up by the collar.  As she did the silver-haired woman clutched a pair of her underwear tightly in her free hand, threatening the scared father with further violence should he ever touch her panties or bras ever again.

"Huh?" the young woman with the light pink hair muttered as she slowly turned around, causing her long pink ponytail to twirl around her head.  As she gazed at Jurai's first princess her jaw nearly fell from its socket.  "Lady Ayeka!" She gasped, doing her best to curtsy in her extremely short shorts.  "Please forgive my behavior, I did not realize you were here.  I was merely excited to see my friends.  I meant you no disrespect."

"Well, I suppose it was merely an accident after all," the purple-haired princess guessed, feeling better at having received an apology. 

"By the way, did you like the gift I sent you for your last birthday?" the orange-eyed woman glowed, eagerly anticipating the answer. "I spent weeks searching everywhere for it, I'm sure you must have liked it."

"Uh, well you see…" Ayeka stammered, tenting her pointer fingers nervously.  "I haven't been back to planet Jurai in quiet some time, so I am afraid I have not received your gift as of yet, Miss Halley I believe I heard your name was…"

"Ayeka," Sasami whispered hurriedly behind her sister, "that's Halley Minkay.  Don't you remember her?  She's one of the wealthiest people in the universe, or at least her parents are."

"Well I… uh…" the red-eyed woman proclaimed at a loss for words.

"So you didn't get my gift?"  The pink-haired woman sighed. "Well I guess I'll just have to wait then," she groaned, her eyes showing that her heart had been broken.  "Please let me know when you do get it.  I think you'll like it…." With her head bowed low, the rich woman backed away, sad and defeated.

"My princess, but you do have a way with making friends, don't you?"  Ryoko laughed as she appeared beside the stunned Jurain, carrying an armful of her underwear.  "Maybe you should be the one studying Sasami's lessons."

Turning around, the young princess pointed one finger at her archrival, as her face became bright red with rage.  "Miss Ryoko, I-"

"Come on girls," Lord Katsuhito asked stepping between them. "Why don't we all go to the hotel, then we'll all hit the beach for a little while."  Knowing what his sister would say, the old man held up a hand to stop Ayeka's comments.  "I'm sure Lady Misaki will not mind if Sasami misses her lessons for only one night."

"Please Ayeka?" the little sister begged, her spirits lifting at the thought of not having to study.  "I promise not to tell mom, and I'll be extra good.  Besides you told me you'd owe me a favor since I never told anyone about you eating all the cookies on the way here."

Tensing as her secret was revealed, the red-eyed woman glared at her sister.  "Very well, you may take time off from your studies, but only if you promise to work twice as hard on acting royal from now on, and no more complaining. "

"Okay…" the younger sister agreed. "I promise."

As the two sisters discussed their new agreement, Mihoshi tugged on Kiyone's shirt, pointing towards a nearby booth.  Turning to see what her ditzy partner wanted, the teal haired woman's eyes lit up at the sight, nodding her understanding.  Within a few seconds both women headed off towards the booth, excitement in their eyes.

A few feet away:

"Excellent," Lued shouted.  "We're all signed up for the tournament."

"Perfect," Halley said taking the paper with their names on it, holding it aloft as if it were a valuable artifact.  "So which one of us gets the trophy?"

"Well, I don't have much room at HQ for one, how about you Sakuya?"

"Nah, I'd rather not have another one cluttering up my lab space.  Maybe you should just keep it."

"If you insist…"

"I don't think you'll need to worry about that," a voice interrupted.  Turning to one side, the trio saw Mihoshi and Kiyone standing by the registration booth.  "All we need is a third player for our team, how about you Lady Ayeka," the confident GP officer asked looking over her shoulder. 

"No thank you, perhaps another time," the purple-haired woman commented abruptly.

"I'll join your team."  Washu offered, "It sounds like a lot of fun."

"Okay, Washu," Kiyone nodded, filling in the last bit of information on the form.   "Just remember we're team 25, and HEY!  Ryoko, if you wanted the form you could have asked!"

"Don't be such a whiner, kiddo," the lithe woman laughed sinisterly as she quickly jotted down her name.  "After all, Tenchi and I are going to be the ones to win this thing."

"Only you would be foolish enough to think something like that, Ryoko."  The purple-haired Jurain mused.  "You cannot win a three person volleyball match with only two people.  You have to have three."

"Okay then, you can play on our team," the silver-haired woman agreed, scribbling in the princess' name. 

"Good," Ayeka smiled turning away as if she had just won a grand victory.  Wait a minute….  "Miss Ryoko, how dare you sign me up for such a thing?"

Putting the end of her pen in her mouth, the golden-eyed woman looked up confused.  "Well I wasn't gonna, but since you raised such a fuss… sorry Sasami.  But I do need you to watch Mayuka for me."  The busty woman admitted leaned to one side as the purple kimono-wearing woman blocked her view.  However this was not the end of the conversation, as the first princess still fumed at the thought of being tricked into this contest.   Ignoring her angry comrade, the lithe woman continued to write things in.  "By the way, Ayeka, what's your bust size…  actually, what are your measurements?"

"Wha…" the formal princess gasped, looking as if she were about to hyper venal ate. 

"Hey, it's on the form."  Ryoko shrugged.  "I'm sorry if you don't like it.  Now then, what are they?  Ah, never mind.  I'll just write petite and flat.  Except for the hips.  You must be a what 36, 40?"

With a quick swipe of her hand, the young princess took the form from her adversary.  "This form says nothing about my person physique.  It merely asked for names, Ryoko!"

Looking back, Ayeka nearly kicked herself as she saw the vicious woman cackling madly at her dismay. 

"Well," the tricked woman growled.  "I suppose this is the perfect chance for me to show off my skills.  Once I win us this tournament, Lord Tenchi will clearly see that you haven't the skills to stay in his presence any longer."

"Oh yeah right!" the silver-haired woman responded with a sarcastic laugh.  "Like you even know what a volley ball is, little princess.  Why I-" However at that moment another voice interrupted the arguing duo, causing each woman to turn towards the source of the laughter.

"Oh?" Sakuya laughed.  "Would you like to try your luck against us?"

Ayeka cackled as she finished filling out the form, her rivalry with Ryoko temporarily forgotten in light of this new adversary.  "Are you that certain you can beat us?"

"Well…" the green-eyed youth commented, "The odds are in our favor.  After all, Minkay is the volleyball champion of the beach for the last five-"

"Six," the rich daughter interjected.

"Excuse me, six" Sakuya corrected herself, "Years now, and I'm the captain of the Academy's team."

"That's all well and good," Kiyone smiled, "but I bet you didn't know I set all the records at Galaxy Police HQ."

"Oh," the well-tanned woman said, stretching her legs apparently to relieve some of her excitement.  "So you're the Kiyone whose records I broke….  Everyone says you're pretty good," sitting down, the lithe woman reached forward to touch her toes, "but I bet I'm better.  Actually I know I am."   She admitted with a triumphant grin, looking up through her thick red at her adversary. 

"What!  Better than me!  How dare you?  What makes you think you're better than me?"  The teal-haired detective demanded. 

"Well…" Lued said bouncing up to her feet perkily, causing her overly endowed chest to bounce slightly.  With a swift motion the bragging officer ran her hands through her thick hair.  "It's nothing really, but I mean… I'm just out of the academy and full of youthful energy with my whole life ahead of me.  Where as you're just an elder officer stationed in the middle of nowhere.  Once again, no offense…."

"Elder!"  Kiyone replied, "We'll show you!  Washu, Mihoshi!  Come on, let's go practice!"  With an energetic smile, the teal-haired detective began to storm off towards the beach, and its numerous shops, intent to purchase the needed equipment and then prepare her team for victory. 

"Wait for me, Kiyone!" Mihoshi screamed, following on her partner's heels to the best of her ability.

What a way to start a vacation… Washu groaned.  Still at least it won't be boring….  "See you guys at the hotel tonight," the red-haired woman waved to the others before dashing off to catch her distant partners.

"Greetings," a raspy voice asked coming from behind the blue-haired girl, who was busy laughing at the comical scene before her.  "Am I correct in guessing you are Princess Sasami?"

"Yes, that's me.  I'm Princess…" turning around slowly the little princess swallowed hard, a look of terror filling her eyes at the person before her.  It was not a man, or even a woman, as she had guessed.  Instead it was something far worse in her opinion.  In front of the frightened youth was a creature, which resembled a lizard, an iguana to be precise, save that this creature walked on its rear haunches, its shoulders appearing tense as if ready to strike.  Behind the mammoth sized lizard a tail whipped about with a life of its own.  The strange creature wore a sand colored robe, which covered most of its body, except its tail and snout.  Its steely eyes focused on the pink-eyed tourist, betraying no emotion.  "Sasami…."

"Excellent."  The strange beast nodded, causing its flesh under its neck to wobble as what appeared to be a smile came over its face.  "I have been sent for you."  With that the lizard man held out one clawed hand, clutching the little girls wrist tightly.

"Ayeka!  Help!" the short child screamed, causing the others to stop instantly in their march. 

Turning about the first princess gasped loudly at the sight.  There was her sister, clutching Mayuka in one arm, as her other was held tight in the grip of a scaled monster's claws. 

"How dare you manhandle Sasami," the red-eyed woman roared, her fists balled up held perfectly straight down by her sides.  "Release her this instant!  I shall not allow you to harm a member of the royal family." 

The lizard like creature looked taken aback by Ayeka's words, as he shifted his neck up fluidly to meet her eyes.  "You thought that I would do harm to a member of the Royal family, after all we have received from them?  I think not!  I merely-"

"I do not care about your intents, I told you to stay away from my sister.  As first princess of Jurai, I command you!"

"I am afraid I cannot do that Lady Ayeka," the lizard man hissed, his long tongue darting in and out of his maw.  "You see-"

"Listen pal," the silver-haired woman snarled, tearing the creature from the frightened little girl.  "You better stay away from Sasami, or I'll knock you into next week."

Seeing the determination in his newest rivals eyes, the taloned creature released his hostage.  "As you wish.  However this is not the end.  There is too much at stake here.  We will meet again."  Turning about on its clawed feet the lizard monster slowed walked away, it's hands clenched into fists of rage.

A short time later:

With a confused look, and a small pink purse clutched in one hand, Tenchi entered into the bizarre scene.  What's going on now? He thought as he took in everything.  Ayeka was comforting Sasami who clutched Mayuka extremely protectively, while Ryoko stared menacingly at a robed figure slowly walking away.  At the same time, the brown-eyed youth noticed that Washu, Kiyone, and Mihoshi were all missing. 

"Hey! That's mine!" a bubbly voice screamed, causing the young man to come out of his thoughts.  As he did, Tenchi was shocked to see woman with a explosive mane of long hot pink hair and deep orange eyes glaring at him, pointing to the small purse he was carrying. "Give that back."

"Oh, this is yours," the brown-haired prince remarked meaning no offense as he pointed to the pink possession.  "Well then-" At that moment, Tenchi's words were cut off as the sound of metal scraping across something filled the air.  Barely a breath later, the shocked youth saw a Kanta blade lying skillfully across his neck.

Peering nervously out of the side of his eyes, the terrified youth saw a man with steel blue eyes glaring at him.  "You heard her," he said in a voice that promised pain if it wasn't obeyed, "return Halley's belongings now, or face the consequences."

"Mehk!" the orange-eyed woman screamed, running beside him to pummel the threatening swordsman with countless powerless blows to the back of the head, appearing like a little child attacking their parent.  "Don't be so mean!  He was just giving it back, right?"

"That's right," Tenchi responded weakly, noticing the blade wave as each blow struck his would be assassin.  Oh man why me…?

"Okay, okay!" the azure haired youth replied, holding up one arm to stop his sister's fists as he quickly replaced his sword in its sheath. 

As soon as the blade was gone, the semi-Jurain youth handed the pink-haired youth her purse.  With a smile so cute it sent shivers down his spine, the happy girl leapt forward wrapping Tenchi in a powerful hug.  "I'm so sorry.  Mehk can be such a pain sometimes.  I hope he didn't hurt you mister…."

"Tenchi!" a voice roared angrily behind him.  "What are you doing hugging the enemy?"  Tenchi knew the owner of that voice long before he turned his head. 

"Ryoko…" he gasped, "it's not what you think."

"Ryoko?" the happy girl said confused, letting him go at that instant.  "You know her?"

"Yeah he knows me," the silver-haired woman proclaimed pushing the brown-haired youth aside, as well as knocking him from consciousness, so she could stand before Halley.  "Now you keep your hands off my Tenchi, or else!"

"I was just thanking him for finding my purse," she responded. "And if he's yours, then why did you just knock him down?"

"Tenchi's clueless about women, so I have to do what it takes to protect him from weirdoes like you."  Reaching down quickly, the golden-eyed woman threw the fallen youth over her shoulder, his eyes filled with swirls.  Turning she glared over her shoulder one final time. "Just remember what I said and they'll be no trouble."

"Are you threatening my sister?" Mehk hissed, his hand already on his sword's handle.  "Better not.  Why don't you keep that womanizer of yours away from innocents like Halley?" 

"Now, now, there is not need to fight," Katsuhito said as he stepped in between the two warriors. "This has all been a misunderstanding.  Why don't we just leave it at that?"

"Brother, what's going on?"  Ayeka demanded running over to see the fallen Tenchi, and an angered Mehk.  "What did you start now, Ryoko?"  She growled looking at her rival.  "Have you harmed Lord Tenchi?"

Just as it seemed a battle was to ensue, the sound of a child crying ended the commotion.  In unison everyone looked to the source, seeing Sasami desperately trying to calm Mayuka. 

That poor child, Halley gasped.  She's so sad….

"All right, little girl," Ryoko smiled, closing her eyes as she placed Tenchi on the ground with care. "Let me show you just one of the many reasons that Tenchi and I are… meant… for… each… other…." The golden-eyed woman's words came slower as she opened her eyes, noticing that Halley Minkay was no longer where she had been, and Mayuka's crying had stopped. 

"Wow, Halley," the blue-haired Jurain admitted, "you got Mayuka to stop crying faster than anyone I've ever seen, even Ryoko!"

Laughing in an air-headed fashion the pink haired youth waved off Sasami's compliment.  "I guess I'm just good with kids.  I always wanted to be a parent you know.  Why just the other day I- Hey!"

Grabbing his sister by the wrist, Mehk ended her rambling before it could begin.  "Come on, Halley.  We're going to he hotel, and then you are going to hang out with Lued and Sakuya.  That's why we came here remember?  I told them we'd meet them in on hour, so let's get going."

"Ouch! Okay, Okay, geez!  Do you have to be so rude, big brother?" the orange-eyed youth proclaimed as he drug her behind him causing her to run to keep up.  Waving over her shoulder, the bubbly woman yelled one final statement.  "Bye everyone!  I hope to see you all later!"  Especially you… Tenchi….

That Afternoon:

The Beach:

Mehk sat alone on the beach, watching his sister as she lounged happily with her friends.  He was not a deeply religious man, but still the young man couldn't help but feel as if a giant weigh was lighting from his soul as he saw his sister's joy.  Despite the heat of the day, and the beaches conditions, the young nobleman had not changed from his all black attire, and sweat beaded on his forehead.

"Here you are," a warm voice offered seconds before a snow cone appeared beside the young man's face.  Thinking the new comer had confused him for someone else, the steel-eyed youth turned his face towards his guest.  It took everything he had to try and reel in his shock, and still that wasn't enough.

"You?" the young man whispered as he took in the old man's appearance casually.  As he looked at the old Shinto priest before him, Mehk was not initially impressed, however something deep in the man's eyes told him to be weary, and to not take him lightly.  For that reason alone, the azure-haired youth bowed his head, and accepted the offering.  "The one from the port earlier."

"My name is Katsuhito.  Although I am known by other names," the gray-haired warrior admitted doing his best to sound mystical before slurping on his own snow cone and breaking the mood.  "Your name is Mehk is it not? "  The young man nodded, saying nothing as he had the good manners not to speak with his mouth full.  "Your sword technique is very good," the priest said with respect, "I think you could teach Tenchi a thing or two about focus and speed, but you still have a lot to learn."

That's why he's here….  The rich boy realized, gulping down the last of his melting ice treat.  "Let me just apologize for my attack earlier," the azure haired youth proclaimed.  "As you might have guessed, my sister is rather precious to me."

"As mine is to me," the elder man admitted as his mind drifted back to his own youth; to the days he spent with his younger sister, Ayeka.  "Sisters are a wondrous gift, to be eternally cherished.  I think that is why it is so hard to watch them go their own way."

Sighing, Mehk clutched the hilt of his sword, closing his eyes and squinting them hard as if trying to purge some darkness from his mind.  "You are wise, beyond a doubt most respected elder," he admitted as he came out of his inner turmoil.  "Of course it is easier to know such words are true, than to live by them.  You see I am engaged to someone and thus will soon no longer be able to keep my vow of protection."  Swinging his hand, the young man batted away a small mound of sand before him. 

"Ah yes," the heir to Jurai's throne laughed.  "So, why isn't your bride to be with you?"

"First off," the angry youth began looking up slowly, "she is here.  Secondly, it was not a marriage by my choice."

"An arranged marriage…" Lord Katsuhito nodded, knowing all too well what that meant.  Being an heir to Jurai's throne he had seen many of them, and very few began well.  It was clear to the old man that his companion was not looking forward to this event at all.  "So when is the marriage to take place?"

"As I understand it, the noblewoman who I am betrothed to is on vacation right now.  I honestly do not think she even knows who I am."

"A noblewoman?" the old priest inquired, "anyone I might have heard of?"

"Yes."  The azure haired youth quietly answered.  "I would tell you who I am to marry, but..." Gazing up at the clear blue sky, the young man seemed to calm slightly, "there is no reason to speak of the self centered demoness I have been bound to." 

Demoness…? Katsuhito gasped, he can't mean….  Setting his own curiosity aside, the master swordsman looked at his opposite, "And what of my grandson, Tenchi?  It seems your sister has taken a liking to him."

"Make no mistake," the angry youth declared rising to his feet.  "If your grandson hurts my sister, then no force in this universe will save him from my wrath.  Thank you for the treat, I will repay you for your kindness one day.  But do not think this makes us friends.  Now then, if you'll excuse me…" Mehk stated bowing respectfully before leaving. 

Now this is an interesting twist, the heir to the throne of Jurai noted watching the violent young man walk away.  It seems this time a woman who has a rather protective brother has fallen for Tenchi.  Not to mention the talk of his betrothed….

Not too far away:

Lying on the beach three young women reclined dressed in outfits that were rather revealing as they tanned in Plesrius's sun. *4 To anyone passing by the three women appeared dead, since they were lying perfectly still while soaking up the warm rays. 

Finally with a moan, the red-haired woman, called Lued, propped herself up on her elbows, deciding it was time to turn over.  Of course the dark skinned detective had no reason to tan, as her skin already looked its darkest, but she could not deny loving the feel of the hot sun on her exposed flesh.  Casting a look at her friends on each side of her through large gaudy sunglasses, the red-eyed woman shook her head.

"Halley… you're never going to get a good tan with those things on your arms," she proclaimed, sounding almost fed up with the pink-haired woman's behavior.  "And they aren't that ugly of scars to begin with.  You can barely notice them."

Propping herself on her forearms, the orange-eyed woman in the white bikini whined a response.  "You might not be able to see them, but I can.  Besides they tingle when I don't keep them bandaged up.  I think there's some bone chipped in there, or something."

"I doubt it," the palest friend. Sakuya, replied, "none of the doctors you see have ever said anything to back up that hypothesis, and there is never any signs of bone fragmentation on any x-rays."  Pausing she looked her friend with compassion.  "It's all in your head, Halley.  Don't worry.  It's not going to be the end of the world or anything."

"Okay…" the orange-eyed woman timidly, answered, slowly unwinding the bandages around her wrists, "but if any boys come by you two have to let me know.  I don't want to scare them away."

"Mehk's coming," the busty GP cadet said nodding her head in the approaching man's direction. 

"He doesn't count." The pink-haired woman said without even looking up.  "He's my brother, and he's always around."

"Sounds like he needs a girlfriend," Sakuya said looking up from an old book she had been reading occasionally.

"Oh yeah?  Is that an offer?" The pink-haired woman began asking the same question she had always asked her friends, "Cause he isn't married yet, and if you want…."

"Sorry, Halley, but your brother is a little too stuffy for me." The emerald-eyed woman admitted, "Although if he were furrier, like a Priderian, I think Lued would like him."

"Yeah right," the GP cadet laughed, "I have no interest in those lion wannabe's.  After all, I'm a neat girl, and imagine all the hair he'd get on my furniture.  I have no interest at all in Captain Koreas."

"Who said anything about Koreas or Priderians?" Halley asked, a smirk on her face.

Despite her dark skin tone, Lued began to change red from embarrassment.  "I didn't!  I mean, I did, but… I have no interest in him, or any other Priderians!"

"Oh really?  That's not what it says in your diary."  Sakuya replied, triumphantly holding up an old book she had been reading.

"Where did you get that?" The red-haired woman screamed, a half smile on her face as she stared at her paler friend. 

Clearing her throat, the black-haired woman began to turn pages in the precious book as she told her story.  "After our last vacation, it must have gotten put into my bag on accident.  I was going to return it and all, but one day I was waiting for a really long experiment to finish up, and all my books were in the room.  That's when I remembered I had it, and I started skimming through it, not really reading anything, until I came to the page you highlighted and drew all these hearts in red ink on.  That caught my attention, so I read all about your love of Captain Koreas.  Oooh!  Look at this page…. I don't think he could bend like that, but I'm sure he'd love to try it…."

"WHAT!" the tanned officer screamed, jumping onto her friend in a mock attack.  Seconds later the two women giggled loudly as they rolled around in the sand.  Reaching forward, the pink-haired woman grabbed the old book from the sand, causing Lued to release her opponent. 

With a squeal of delight and mock horror, Halley threw the book high in the air, "Sakuya!  Keep away!"

Catching on quickly, the reserved black-haired woman grabbed the volume from the air, and danced away from the charging officer, tossing it back to her friend when the red-haired woman drew too near. 

"It looks like you're having fun," Mehk said, appearing beside his sister, like a shadow. 

"Catch," the young sister laughed, handing the book to her sibling, who looked up just in time to see Lued seconds before she collided with him, knocking him flat onto the beach, following him to the ground. 

Quickly regaining her wits, Lued sat up, her waist positioned right over Mehk's, as she plucked the book from his hand.  It was then she noticed the young man's face had turned bright red, his body unable to deal with having a scantily clad woman atop it.

"Gee, Mehk," the young woman laughed, rising of him.  "Is that a sword at your side, or were you just happy to see me."  With those words all three woman giggled frantically at the fallen youth's expense. 

Nearly leaping to his feet, the steel blue eyed figure brushed sand off his clothes angrily.  As he did, the azure-haired nobleman shook his head angrily.  "I just came to warn you that boy, Tenchi, and his friends are in the area, so it might be best to move further down the beach.  They are a rather pesky lot, and seem quiet eager to bother us."

Tenchi… the name echoed happily in his sister's heart and mind causing her giggling to momentarily pause.  He's out here?  Where are my wrappings?  She thought, casting her eyes to the ground in a quick search for her lost armbands.  I can't let him see me without them.  After all, I just KNOW he's the one I've been looking for all my life; I saw it in his eyes….  Grinning, the young woman unconsciously began rewrapping her arms, as her young mind began to concoct a plot to win Tenchi to her.  It was her favorite hobby in the whole world, getting men to like her, and to date she had never been resisted.  As of this moment, Halley Minkay was on the prowl.

Universe of Torment:

The Festival of Life:

Night:

The town of Okinawa is a quiet one, yet once a year, the town holds a grand festival.  A festival that rivals any other, for it is here that the essence of life is celebrated.  It is also the exact spot were a certain youth leaned angrily against a rail insulting himself as he waited alone for someone who might never show.

Man, how could I have been so stupid?   What in the world made me think that one of the most popular girls in school was actually interested in me?  Sighing deeply the golden-eyed youth leaned against a nearby rail as he continued to brood.  I bet right now she's having a good laugh at home with her friends, all because I was so gullible.  With a swift motion, the young man quickly punched the metal bar venting his frustration on it.  Looking down, the black-haired man looked in shock at the target for his anger, as his punch had bent the bar.   Growling at himself, Yosho looked to the stars, fighting back tears.  Darn it, I have to remember to control my strength.  If someone saw me….  Oh why bother; it would just be par for the course today….    "I guess there's no reason to stick around, I might as well go home…."

"Yosho!" a young woman screamed, causing the downtrodden youth to halt in his march and spin about.

"Sakuya?" he asked, more in shocked realization than as a question. 

"There you are," the black-haired schoolmate screamed, appearing our of breath as she stopped, her chest rising and falling quickly.  "I'm… sorry… I'm late, but… I couldn't find… anything to wear… for our date…."

"Oh," the young man nodded, taken aback by her beauty.  "Well you look great," he replied. 

"Really," Sakuya smiled, looking at him skeptically as she examined herself.  "This old outfit?  It's nothing special."

It was true.  The outfit the young volleyball captain wore was nothing that extravagant.  It was merely a pair of jean shorts and a basic white shirt, yet to the golden-eyed youth, nothing could replace her as the most gorgeous thing he had ever seen.

With a warm laugh, the worn out woman walked towards the confused youth, taking his hand in hers.  With a quick tug, Sakuya pulled him forward as she headed back into the park.  "Look, we can discuss my wardrobe later," she giggled, her words coming quicker and barely sinking into the young man's mind.  "But we've already lost an hour, and there's a lot of stuff I want to do.  I think we should start with that thing in your story, which you still have to tell me about, don't you agree?"

"Yeah," he replied, "that's a good idea.  What thing are we talking about thought?"

"I hope your story is more in depth than your conversation," the happy female remarked, "but the 'thing' I was talking about was the Ferris wheel, duh!  Now come on!"  She smiled, and tugged one last time on his hand, and they were off with a grand night of adventure and nothing would stop them.

The Masaki House:

Inside the red-roofed home, where unbelievable events happened daily, a family relaxes after a hard day of work as they prepared for the rest of their extended family's arrival.  After nearly a year since the last time they had seen one another, Ayeka, Sasami, Kiyone, and Mihoshi were returning to this house, to spend a few more days reliving the past, and reminding themselves about what was truly important in life.  The only light in the small room came from the lamps against the wall, which did their best to banish the darkness, despite their inadequate power. 

"What a day…" Tenchi Masaki moaned as he sat down on the couch heavily, his entire body aching from the day's events. 

"What you need is a good, long, hot bath," a seductive voice offered.  Before the brown-haired Jurain turned his head, he already knew exactly to whom the voice belonged.  "If you want I'll even scrub your back, and anything 'else' you need help with…."

"Ryoko," the exhausted father groaned, "not now."

"Oh come on Tenchi," she whined, "it'll be fun.  Just like we used to before Yosho was born.  A warm bath always relaxes me after a hard day of work."

"And when was the last time you had a hard day of work, Ryoko," Washu asked as she entered the cozy gathering, a bowl of ramen noodles in her hands.  "If I remember correctly you didn't do much of anything while we were getting everything ready for all our guests.  As a matter of fact, you just slept on the roof all day and complained about that!"

"You just slept all day!"  Tenchi said finding the energy to sit up suddenly,  "you told me you finished the upstairs cleaning."

"Well, I was going to get to it," the golden-eyed woman proclaimed, "but there's just so much to do I didn't know where to begin."

Before the worn out young man could begin his rebuttal, a cheery energetic noise broke the mood, "Tenchi!"  This was followed by a blue blur, and a large figure jumping out of the darkness to crash into the married man's lap. 

Ryo-Ohki was the first to react, meowing happily at the sight of the newcomer, after a few seconds of shock, everyone else also joined in the merriment.  "Hello, Sasami," the sore youth gasped, his worn out body taking the assault of his relative quiet poorly.  Yet he could not fault the once little girl her energetic response. As long as he had known her, the blue-haired woman had always acted from her heart.  So it was no surprise she would jump on his lap as she would have long ago, however it seemed once again the pink-eyed woman had forgotten she was no longer a child, and was quiet grown up, having become the exact image of Tsunami.  "You're early." The brown-haired youth groaned, twisting his lap so she could slide onto the couch beside him, one of her arms still wound around his neck. 

"Isn't it great," the Jurain princess asked, leaping up to her feet, a triumphant look on her face.  Seconds later, the tiny golden-eyed cabbit leapt upwards, scaling her friend as she always had in the past, coming to rest on Sasami's head like a mountain climber at a mountains peak. 

"So Sasami," Ryoko laughed at the sight, "did you forget about the rest of us?  Or don't we count for a welcome?"

Remembering her manners, the energetic Jurain bowed politely to both Ryoko and Washu.  Of course none of the women realized such a welcome would do, especially not after her greeting of Tenchi, and soon the blue haired woman embraced both Washu and her daughter in her amazingly powerful arms.  The two of them turning a bluish color in her hug.

You can tell… she's Misaki's daughter… the red-haired woman mentally told her daughter, doing her best to prevent her ribs form breaking.

Yeah… the cyan-haired woman mentally groaned.  Isn't that just 'great….' I guess she's been home too long….

"Hello, Lord Tenchi," a noble and calm voice suddenly proclaimed, causing the room to fall silent.  "Little Washu.  Ryoko…." The newcomer said the last name with disdain. 

As one all of the rooms occupants heads turned towards the owner of the voice.  Starting with Sasami, who finally released her captives, a smile appeared on each face, even Ryoko's, as they took in her appearance.

"You look well…" the cyan-haired woman said breaking the joyous silence.  "Little Princess."

"And you…" Ayeka smiled stepping in from outside, pulling her cowl down as she melted into the bright light of the living room. 

It was something that still stunned Tenchi no matter how many times he saw it, how Jurains, himself include, aged so slowly.  Indeed the purple-haired woman appeared as young and vibrant as she had nearly three decades ago, when they first met.  "You are all looking quiet well."   Pausing the red-eyed woman looked around the room, appearing confused.  "But where is everyone else?"  She asked with concern. 

"Dad's still at work.  He called earlier and said he still had a big project to work on.  Grandpa's just up at the shrine, I can call him if you want."  The young man offered.  With a slight hand motion, Ayeka dismissed his offer. 

"But where's Yosho?" Sasami asked, kneeling on the floor to play with Ryo-Ohki. 

"He's… on a date." Tenchi said, seconds before the blue-haired girl awed loudly. 

"Little Yosho!  On a date!"  She laughed loudly.  "Ayeka did you hear that?"

"Yes I did, Sasami." The red-eyed woman replied, "now then, what did I tell you about sitting on the floor in your robes?  You're going to ruin them."

With a side-to-side head nod the younger woman stood up, brushing herself off, as she took a seat on the couch.

With an even deeper inner smile, the youthful first princess resumed entering the room.  After so long, she was once again with her friends and family, and had finally, FINALLY, come home.

A Place between Dimensions:

The Jerthosian Isle:

Sitting alone in his grand control room, a large figure clad in black armor with silver patches on the torso and forearms, typed frantically as virtual images flashed before his unblinking eyes.  Around his broad shoulders a thick amethyst cloak flowed freely.  Even his helm had been changed recently.  From the top, a long blue plume flowed, like a large ponytail, the perfect combination with his silver helmet.

In his newly crafted armor, the Ebon Knight appeared bigger than prior, his arms and chest in particular, and his blue eyes glowed powerfully in the darkness.

"What's this, a holiday?" A voice asked suddenly breaking the eerie silence.  "Wearing something new?  How unlike you, boss. Any special reason?  I thought you were a dark fighter, or something, and had to wear only black."

"Ebon Knight," the massive figure amended, continuing to type in data as he scrolled through various screens.  "Despite what the name implies my dear," he began, "Ebon refers to the condition of my soul, not the color of my armor."

"Oh ok," the newcomer acknowledged, finding this game slightly amusing.  "But you still wear black most of the time anyway.  So once again, boss, why the new outfit then?"

"It is not a new… outfit," Jerthose declared pausing only long enough to briefly to glance over his shoulder at her.  "It is simply an attachment for my armor, which allows me quicker interface with the computer and increases efficiency 20 percent. "

"Sure, that explains why you added that thing on your helmet, and the cape…." She said trying to appear humorous.  However no response came form the Ebon Knight, and soon the shadowy newcomer shifted back and forth on her feet appearing rather uncomfortable, as if there was something on her mind.  Clearing her throat, the young woman nodded once, before folding her arms over her chest.  "So is it time yet?" she asked.

"Soon.  Very soon."  The creature with eyes like glowing sapphires replied, continuing to scan the holographic schematics of various machines.  "You sound… anxious.  Am I correct?"

"I suppose you could say that, sir."  The woman in the darkness replied.  "I just can't believe what's happened.  One minute I'm with my loved ones, the next I'm here.  I guess I was hoping I'd play a bigger part in all this."  She said pointing an open hand towards one of the colossal machines nearby.  "Instead of being merely a spectator."

Pressing a button, which filled the small room with light, Jerthose turned to face the newcomer.  From his heavy visor, the ebon knight took in her appearance.  The lithe figure was truly a vision of loveliness.  Her long spiky silver hair seemed to almost explode out from her head, while golden-eyes took in every detail around her, yet hid a child-like innocence.  Wearing her favorite attire, a white bodysuit with black arms and leggings, this warrior woman was terrifyingly familiar.  Yet what always caught the black knights eyes first each time he gazed upon her was the identical semi-circle markings on the lower portion of her cheeks that ran under her chin.  "Do not be concerned, my dear.  If all goes well, then you shall not be needed at all.  However with so many variables, it is likely you may be needed to… weed out certain… anomalies."

Bowing slightly, the silver-haired woman nodded.  "Lord Jerthose, I owe you my life for saving me long ago. If I am needed, you know you have but to ask and I shall obey.  After all you know nothing is more important to me than returning to those I love."

This phrase caused the armored figure to pause, as he was taken aback by her words.  Those you love…. He thought the words echoing in his dark mind.  "Of course you would.  Now go, leave me to my work," he growled shooing her away with a wave of his hand.  "There is still much left to do before my plan can begin."  Bowing respectfully the silver-haired woman  nodded.

"Very well," she sighed, "I suppose I can amuse myself with my games.  As a matter of fact, I think I'll start a new one right now…"  with a smile like a little child, the golden-eyed woman quickly fled the room off on some new mystical adventure in her head.

Seconds later, as the sound of a great door closing echoed in the gargantuan room, the ebon knight stopped in his work.  Folding his hands in front of his as he stared powerfully at the data before him.  Return to those you love…  I wonder what you would say if you knew the full truth?   That in the end there will be no loved ones to return to.  Only oblivion, would you still help me in my quest, or would you try in vain to stop me my dear?  I suppose that is one question I shall never know the answer to.  For soon it will all be over, and I shall have my truest desire, my ultimate goal will be realized.

The Database: at the same moment in both Universes

It is a place where all things are known, yet not always understood.  It is the home of gods, goddesses, and their minions.  To gaze upon it is to see both complete chaos and total order. Wonders untold of exist here, some so great the human mind would spend a lifetime trying to consume its passion and glory. To those who are blessed to travel here, it is simply called The Database.  Currently at the same moment in two universes' something new is happening in both places.  For it is here, that a goddess stands, as best can since her body is composed of space itself.  Her name is Lady Tokimi, a goddess of untold of power, yet despite her abilities, the mighty goddess could not help but feel afraid.  Something was approaching, an unstoppable and infinite force.  One that not only threatened her power and plans, but also everything else in existence.  

Gazing into the infinite darkness intently, the mighty goddess gritted her teeth.  Washu…  why do you resist?  Why don't you come to me?  Powers are gathering that must be contended against, ones I know and yet do not know.  Dear sister, the time of reckoning is soon to come… and because of your impudence we are far from ready.    Soon, very soon a battle for everything will begin, I know this yet I know not why, and if you are not at my side, then it will all be for naught.  I can see and feel it, not an overwhelming darkness, but the void, nothing, oblivion….

Next Time:  This is merely the beginning, and already we are swamped with questions.  We've got new worries, and an even larger cast than ever before.  Now, what will everyone do?  It looks like Halley Minkay has set her sights on Tenchi, and her brother doesn't seem to like that notion.  Not to mention what will Ryoko and Ayeka think about this?  Well, maybe it'll all blow over and they can discuss it calmly over tea….  Yeah right…. What about Mehk, who is he betrothed to?  And will Noboyuki ever get his camera back?

Why is a lizard man after Sasami, and what about those gems in Jerthose's lair?  In any case, the show, and party, must go on as our happy heroes continue to enjoy themselves.  As the Masaki's of Torment welcome the rest of their guests, those in Delight partake in a volleyball tournament!  However in the darkness of his realm, Jerthose's plan is nearly ready to begin.  Will anyone find out about his plan before it's too late, or is it already over?  Chapter 02: Shattered Dreams

*1: Of course this time gap is in respect to the fact that portion of time no longer exists.  Still, it also could be thought of as a few days after the end of The Final Saga.

*2: Picture Ryoko's outfit from the beginning of Tenchi Universe episode 20: No need for Swimsuits.

*3: Chapter 26 of Tenchi Muyo: The Final Saga  (hope you read it.)

*4: Sorry, but fan-service just doesn't work well in fan-fictions.  Still if you can picture Sakuya, Mihoshi (who Lued is based off of) with short red hair, and then Halley, in rather revealing outfits, then you get the idea.