All's fair in love and work CHAPTER 1: Morning in the Masaki Household Kiyone yawned and shook her tired head. What had woken her? A shout shook the house. Obviously Ayeka and Ryoko then...or maybe not. She dragged herself up, and pulled off her purple silk pyjamas. Her Galaxy Police uniform was lying at the end of the bed. Oh no, she groaned, don't tell me I have to work today. Upon closer inspection a note was pinned onto the unifoirm. It read: Kiyone, Were (added apostrophe) having a galaxy police meting (scribble) meeting. You have to wer (scribble) wear uniform. ~Mihoshi Still, she thought, at least this would be a good chance to impress the commander...if Mihoshi didn't screw up. Kiyone groaned again. Meetings were always a disaster area if Mihoshi was there. Though this was obviously a chance in a million. Glancing at her digital clock, the green haired woman gasped. 12:00??? She was already late. "Mihoshi! Are you ready?" she screamed down the hall as she dragged her top on. "Coming, Kiyone." Looking out the door, Kiyone almost fainted. "What are you wearing?" "Oh, just something I picked up." Mihoshi answered, glancing at the practically see-through dress she was wearing. "Ah, I see the babys on it's way?" she asked. Kiyone was certain she was going crazy, but glancing down at her stomach, it did seem rather big. Maybe the rest of her life was a dream, and she had just woken up? Come to think of it, she certainly didn't have any pyjamas made of silk. Tenchi emerged from her bedroom too, and to Kiyone's horror, he came up and kissed her. "So, sweetie, how's my little baby coming on, eh?" Kiyone pinched herself to check it wasn't a dream, and woke up sweating in bed. Listening carefully, she heard Ryoko snoring away in the other room. Sighing, glad her bizarre experience had been a dream, she pulled off her white cotton pyjamas and dressed in a blue dress that had a summery feeling to it. Glancing out the window, she cursed as she remembered it was Winter, than shouted with delight as she remembered it was Christmas Eve. Woah, I really need to get a hold of myself. She thought, unbuttoning her dress and deciding on changing into a black skirt, tights and a red jumper. Briefly viewing herself in the mirror, she thought it looked okay. As she walked out the door, a piece of her dream came floating back to her, and she quickly checked her stomach. Normal size. Mihoshi walked out of the door in front of her...wearing a pink nightie with little teddies embroidered on. "Uh, Mihoshi, shouldn't you be dressed by now?" quizzed Kiyone. Mihoshi yawned, nodded and stumbled back into her room. Kiyone went on downstairs, and a heavenly smell drifted from the kitchen. Mmm, Sasami's cooking breakfast. She hurried up, her dream flying away and thoughts of a delicious crunchy sandwhich came running in to take its place. Mihoshi stretched, looking at all her clothes. Looking out of her window, she saw it was snowing, so picked a fluffy pink jumper, a cotton blue shirt and some tight jeans. She tied her messy hair up in a ponytail as usual and tripped downstairs, but instead of smelling bacon she smelt the depressing smell of no bacon. Blink. Blink blink. Where am I? Oh yeah...in bed. Ryoko was still half asleep, and wished her dream had ended. It had been all about...what? Oh, right. Tenchi, getting married to her, having kids, the usual. She flew out of bed, and wiped the early morning condensation from the window. Snow. Yuck. She opened her wardrobe and groaned. Since Sasami had had a cold last week, everyone had helped out. Apparently, Mihoshi did the washing. All her best tops were pink, red and purple, a horrible mixture. Lucky I bought a spare. She hovered above a large chest, and opened it. Inside were two outfits: a teeny white beaded top with some black trousers, and a tight purple top with a long black skirt. She decided on the purple top and black trousers, not really bothered with the colour, just the overall view. Or, in other words, what Tenchi thought. Ayeka opened her eyes and jumped out of bed. She was annoyed to find Ryoko was already up, drinking eggnog downstairs and causing a racket. Frantically, she flicked through her entire wardrobe, finally settling for a pink blouse that was surprisingly warm and pink trousers...wait, why were they pink? She looked through her clothes again, and almost screamed before remembering that Princesses don't do that sort of thing just because a clumsy ditz had a done the laundry. What am I going to do now? she thought dejectedly, and finally decided on a purpley-blue kimono with pink embroiderings. Tenchi was already up and about at this time, gathering up the last vegetables for the next days roast dinner. He wasn't wearing anything special, just his usual sort of clothes, though he was sure Ryoko would soon come out wearing some "impressive" purple top and black trouser type outfit. He sighed, reaching his hands into the carrot box. He wasn't surprised when it was empty. Picking up his basket, Tenchi trudged through the snow back inside. He grabbed a rice ball, and as he chewed slowly struck up a conversation with Sasami. "So, what are you doing today?" "Oh, just preparing for dinner tomorrow. D'ya think I should do carrots or noodles?" Tenchi blinked at the unexpected noodles, but quickly covered his surprise. "Well...uh...noodles should be best, I think Ryo-ohki ate all the carrots." "Okay!" "What are you wearing tomorrow?" "That'll be a surprise! What about you?" Despite the fact that she hadn't told him, Tenchi explained he would just wear something like jeans and a jumper that looked nice, then walked out wondering where to go next. He entered the living room, and wasn't all that amazed at his accurate prediction of Ryoko's clothes. At a glance he could tell she had been at Sasami's secret supply of eggnog, and probably a bit of hidden Sake aswell. "How are you, Ryoko?" "Uh...okay..." she answered, bleary eyed, also staring at Tenchi's new T.V. Currently a movie was on that seemed to be about a girl trying to win the love of a man and marry under the magic moon of Christmas. Tenchi frowned. He hated that sort of thing. Plus, he was slightly worried at Ryoko ignorance that the supposed love of her life had walked in through the door. "So..uh... what are you doing today?" "Oh, just stuff. I was getting a bit bored; perhaps you'd like to come and help me find Washu?" "Okay..." she stumbled her way out of the room, strangely, for usually she would just be more outrageous than ever. Kiyone sat and watched T.V. for a while. It was some soppy film, and she wasn't that interested. Suddenly it occured to her that she hadn't done the Christmas shopping yet...and Ryoko or Ayeka had barely been seen. Come to think of it, Tenchi hasn't been around lately... she thought glumly, and walked out into the snow to find her spaceship to go shopping at the Starroom Stores. The others pretty much did nothing until one by one they left aswell. Sasami was left making home-made gifts, and only paused to glance at the clock which read 12:00. CHAPTER 2: Christmas Shopping Mihoshi was skipping around the Galactic Gaze shopping mall, wondering what to buy for her partner. Hmm, she'd probably like some sweets, was the conclusion she finally made, and went straight back to Salkazu's Sweets, an act which she had performed approximately six times already. Kiyone glanced at her watch. 13:10 it read. She hurried on to the nearest shop, which looked inviting with all the sparkly displays and flashing Christmas tree lights. Once inside, she saw a gift for Mihoshi at once. It was a cute, cuddly teddy with a big pink bow on. Kiyone nearly puked at the sight of it, but knew Mihoshi would burst into tears of delight. On her way towards it, she noticed the perfect present for a certain purple-haired Princess - a kimono with small sapphires on. it was a bit expensive, but Kiyone was really set to liven up Christmas for all. So, when she weaved her way through the crowds to the kimono, she didn't mind setting her heart on a pile of books that would entertain Washu for hours. Mihoshi sighed. She didn't like being locked up in the shop-lifting section, it made her cry, especially since she hadn't done anything. One little bouncy ball isn't that much, is it? she thought unhappily. Then she brightned up. "I'm a Galaxy Police officer! I can get out!" she exclaimed, and proceeded to look carefully round for escape. Eventually she managed to prise open a small window, and clambered out. Ha! Now onto the presents. She hadn't seen the heavily guarded doors, so this was actually a feat worthy of a promotion if her superviser was there to see it. Ryoko yawned. Why was she feeling so sick? Little did she now that everyone else was assuming she had drunk a bit. In fact, she hadn't. "Tenchi?" she called, before remembering he had gone shopping. She tried to stand up, but her head hurt so much she lay back down and put a flannel on her head. She groaned, realising that Ayeka was also out. She was probably chasing Tenchi right that minute... Ayeka tripped again. Why were there so many stairs? Already she carried three bags full of presents for Tenchi, and a bag full of presents for the others, and a small box of presents for Ryoko. It was al weighing her down, but she wasn't sure how to get a bus home. Hmph, I bet Ryoko's at home lying on the sofa, the greedy demon. She thought, then to console herself added But it does mean she won't have any presents for Tenchi! No...no....perfect! Just like Ryoko. Tenchi thought as he browsed through a wacky clothes shop. He was thinking about the time Ryoko had gone snowboarding in a leopard print bikini, so he thought that a new flame print dress would be good. He was just flicking through a rack when the speaker announced that everyone had to leave the shop for lunch break. Tenchi quickly hurried out, and just as he was past the swingning doors crashed into a young woman with beautiful hair. "Oh, are you okay?" he asked, before realising it was Kiyone. He picked up her stuff and helped her up, smiling. "Oh, Tenchi! Shall we go get some sushi?" she asked, smiling straight back. Tenchi nodded, and they walked off to the nearest sushi bar. "So....got me my present yet?" Kiyone enquired casually. Tenchi just laughed and tapped her nose playfully. Kiyone felt herself blushing slightly. But...I'm a police officer...I can't...no, this is stupid, of course I don't... Kiyone was confused. She felt all happy and tingly inside her just looking at Tenchi, but she KNEW she didn't like him...or did she? Maybe...maybe Ayeka and Ryoko are right...but this...it's only one... Mihoshi stood frozen to the spot. Her watch had just started bleeping, a sure sign of important buissness. What if I'm in trouble? Her lip wobbled, but when she answered the call her superviser was smiling broadly. "Mihoshi, well done! After your escape we decided we'll promote you...if you can complete a few tasks. Will you report back to HQ and take them?" "Uh..." "Good, well, see you there!" Mihoshi winced as he smiled more than ever. What am I going to do? she felt worse than before the call. Ryoko groaned again. Sasami had come looking after her, giving her herbs and stuff that weren't helping much. Her head was aching so much, it felt like it was going to fall off. Tenchi... "Ow!" Ayeka was still busy trying to get home. She KNEW that it was down this street...or was it up there? Then she realised she was completely, utterly lost. Still she kept on walking, and eventually crashed into the edge of the city. More hopefull, she stumbled on through the countryside until she reached a flower garden. It was beautiful, full of reds and blues and pinks, and nearly every other colour you could imagine. She picked a bunch of sweet-smelling ones, tied them up with some gold ribbon and used a small amount of her powers to keep them alive. She arranged them carefully alongside her presents for Tenchi, and skipped on happily. The garden really was a lovely place, with a small river and little animals playing around. Eventually she tripped over a small vegetable, and realised she was in the Masaki carrot garden. Taking careful note of the directions to the garden, she entered the house. Sasami sighed. She had been busy all day, making gifts, cooking, looking after Ryoko... A small arrangement of presents lay on the table. A coat for Tenchi, a dress for Ayeka, a nightie for Mihoshi, a funny lab coat for Washu...what can I do for Kiyone and Ryoko? Sasami smiled. She knew that all Ryoko would really want was a large serving of Christmas dinner and a bottle of Sake. Kiyone was a problem though. What do you make for a Galaxy Police officer who's actually good at their work? Kiyone giggled as Tenchi told her a funny joke. They were both in her spaceship, and Ryo-ohki (who Tenchi had ridden) was being towed back. "Tenchi...what's my present?" Kiyone asked, hoping it was discreet. Tenchi just laughed, knowing she was just having fun trying to find out. "Want a clue?" "Okay!" "Hmmm...it can be worn...it looks nice..." "Jewellery?" "That's within the imagination!" 'Uh...a necklace?" "Close." "Maybe...maybe...uh..." Kiyone couldn't think of anything else, except a bracelet and earrings, that sort of thing, but she'd tried all that. "I give up." "Then wait until tomorrow!" Kiyone grinned, and hit Tenchi gently on the hand. He laughed again, and that set Kiyone off. When the spaceship finally arrived, Ayeka was waiting on the porch. Tenchi gulped. He and Kiyone were still laughing happily away, and Ayeka was watching in fury. "T-t-t-Tenchi! What are you doing?" "Just sharing a joke!" Ayeka frowned, and grabbed Tenchi by the arm. "Come and look what I got you!" "No, Ayeka, it can wait till tomorrow, and be a surprise. I've got to check on Ryoko right now, she didn't look well this morning." "Oh, she was just drunk." "No..." Tenchi pulled his arm away and hurried indoors. Ayeka glared at him, then remembered Kiyone. "So, what were you REALLY doing?" "Shopping!" Kiyone spluttered, trying not to laugh. Tenchi had taught her that even the smallest things were funny. Ayeka stamped her foot, and after realising it had no effect, stomped indoors after Tenchi. Kiyone frowned herself. Apparently, shopping is a bit too much if I do it with Tenchi. In a way, she was upset. An unhappy Christmas was just what she needed, after working with Mihoshi so long. Her nerves would probably be at their end. I'd better try and patch it up... Ryoko sighed happily as Tenchi walked in. Finally! "Oh, Tenchi, you're back!" Tenchi smiled, and gave her a quick hug. Ryoko glowed positively. Oops,though Tenchi, I don't want to string her along... But then he got confused. He liked Ryoko, he wouldn't mind having her as a girlfriend...but she was a space pirate and Ayeka was so much more sophisticated...but Kiyone was sensible...Kiyone?!?! Tenchi collapsed into the sofa, and turned on the tv. Boring...boring...boring... eventually he settled on Kimi no Penguins, a story with the ending as Kimi no carrot cake, but replacing carrot cake with penguins. It was one of Mihoshi's favourites...Mihoshi is nice...Washu is clever...Ryoko is affectionate in her own funny way...Ayeka is sophisticated and royal...Kiyone is sensible and hard- working... Tenchi knew the time had come to choose. All the girls were hurrying up to bed. Ryoko attempted to trip everyone up, Ayeka was boasting about her royal heritage and how she and Tenchi were meant to be together, ect ect, Mihoshi was hurling teddys at anyone who came to her door, and Kiyone was trying to make peace. Washu had been noted making some kind of acidic substance and putting it in the girls bedtime water, so nobody was that thirsty. Everyone knew this was the result of the love battle towards Tenchi. CHAPTER 3: No Need for Christmas! Kiyone shuffled around nervously on her chair. The morning had started off okay, with everyone checking their stockings. Kiyone had recieved some chocolate, a pair of earrings, a lovely lilac dress, and a few other stocking fillers including a water gun. But as the day had gone on, the atmosphere had dropped, until by breakfast everyone was glancing at each other sharply. Tenchi had told everyone he knew that somewhere, his love was decided, and had to tell someone. Now, all were gathered in the dining room, being called into Tenchi's room one by one to hear what he had to say. He wouldn't tell them who, just why he liked and didn't like them. "Kiyone, you can come in." she groaned. She was the first in, and wouldn't know what to do...sit there? Joke a bit? She got up and walked upstairs. Tenchi was sitting on his bed, and signalled for her to sit down. "So, any new jokes? Gossip? Actual news?" he smiled a heart-dissolving smile. Kiyone was amazed. He had just solved all her worries about what to do in a few short sentences. She chatted with him for a bit, and then he began. "Well...before I thought you were too dedicated to your work to be friendly..." Kiyone kept sensible quiet (unlike Ryoko or Ayeka, who would have burst) "But after yesterday, and in a few occasions before, I saw that you were fun, kind, but the hard-working part made you a good person to have in a crisis. Though sometimes you can be a bit too over-working, and if we had a relationship it might prevent me from seeing you. I hope you understand that all these talks are just to help me cry out and understand myself." Kiyone nodded, with a smile on her face. Tenchi smiled back. "So, see you at dinner? I'll give you my present!" Tenchi understood that she wasn't trying to bias him towards her, and waved as she left the door. As she sat down, Tenchi could see how nervous Ryoko was. Poor thing. She loves me so much...if it isn't her, how will she cope? This time Tenchi dived straight in. "Ryoko, I love you." She gasped happily at this point. "But..." (her face fell) "I don't know. I love all the girls, but even if it isn't you, I hope you understand that you are still more special to me than a lot of others. Now...I think you look nice, and your outrageous personality is easy to live with, and fun, once you get used to it. I know that you would stay by me, whatever. But sometimes, I think you drink a bit too much, like this morning..." "Tenchi, I hadn't had even a drop of water." Tenchi could tell by the deep clearness of her amber eyes she was telling the truth. "Okay. I believe you." (Ryoko studied his face, and satisfied with the reulst, let him continue). "Apart from that one little point, I think you truly are a lovely woman." Ryoko grinned, gave him a hug and flew out. That went better than I thought... Ayeka flounced in. Though she appeared calm and serene, her mood was bubbling with tension. Nearly all morning she had sat at the table, waiting her turn to see Tenchi, and the way all the girls were scowling at her put her on edge. Though secretly, she was sure Tenchi would just find absolutely no faults with her. I'm perfect, she assured herself, absolutely perfect. If Kiyone can make Tenchi laugh and be happy, then so can I! She sat down, trying to adopt Kiyone's carefree emotions. "So, Ayeka, had any news from Jurai?" "Oh, not really, i'm probably going to stay here a while, you know?" "Uh...I hope my house doesn't get any new people in!" Ayeka was annoyed. Kiyone would have been able to pull that off, even Ryoko, but she just HAD to go and make it sound like she was forcing Tenchi to let her stay and love him. "So...uh...well, um, I like you because of your calm and sweet nature, which is a nice contrast to Ryoko..." (Ayeka sat smugly, like a cat who got the cream) "But...well...sometimes you can be too...too...demanding, and that just doesn't suit you. Bye." Ayeka was gobsmacked. It was already over? She didn't have much time to complain though, because Mihoshi was already entering with tears streaming down her cheeks. Ayeka tried to look secretive and happy, but it wasn't quite perfect. Mihoshi blew her nose on a tissue and watched Tenchi. He smiled kindly at her, but she seemed to have caught a cold and signalled him on. "I think you're okay, Mihoshi, however much people think you are clumsy..." "Thanks, Tenchi. Everyone else says that I cab be a pain but I bew you wouldn't because you're Tenchi, and..." she reached for another tissue to clear out her bunged up nose and Tenchi took the chance to intervene. "I know, Mihoshi. But you're also really helpful and fun loving. Yet sometimes...well...a bit too...cute." "Obay." Mihoshi sniffed and walked out. Tenchi sighed. So far she had been the worst to deal with. Who had been the best.....he knew the answer before the question. Kiyone. She's so...positive. Washu hopped in the door, literally, with a small device. "Uh...why are you hopping, Washu?' "Oh, this? I'm measuring the speed of position one and two in the related areas of physics that include H movements per..." "Okay, okay, sit down, would you?" Tenchi laughed. "Okay, but make this quick." Tenchi smiled at the red-haired scientist. "Alright, well, you're clever and cute, but sometimes too clever." Washu smiled, and hopped out with a wave. As usual, Tenchi was left feeling as if a conversation with Washu had gone unlike it was planned, but shrugged the feeling off as he realised that everyone had been checked. Now.... now he just had to make up his mind. Kiyone...Mihoshi...Ryoko...Washu...Ayeka...oh, everyone's okay! But I can tell, somewhere inside me...I know quite a few people will be disappointed this Christmas. "Okay, girls. I know that a few of you are going to be very sad today, and I just want to say that I love you all, but one of you I love in a different way." everyone sat there, throwing nervous, angry glances at each other. "Tenchi...tell us who it is." Nobuyuki signalled. Tenchi took a deep breath. Okay, here goes... "I-I think it is..." Tenchi paused. All the girls smiled at him. He knew this would be the last time most of them were happy. It's Christmas. I can't do this! Tenchi thought glumly, but everyone was waiting. "Uh...K-Kiyone!" There, finally said it. He looked around. Kiyone was smiling a small smile at him, and comforting everyone else with the help of Sasami, Washu and Nobuyuki. ayeka was red, and small, crystal-like tears slid down her face. I'll never get to take Tenchi to the secret garden... Mihoshi was wailing, with all the stops pulled out. Waaaaaaa!!!!!! Waaaaaaaaa!!!!! Kiyone patted her on the back, and reassured her that Tenchi might change his mind. Ryoko was the worst. She was just sitting there. Sitting there, her amber eyes glowing, looking straight at Tenchi, ignoring anyone trying to comfort her. After everyone had calmed down Kiyone stood up. "Look, I know Tenchi said my name, but it could always change! He could be wrong! Can we just enjoy Christmas?" Kiyone stared in astonishment as small, weak smiles crept over everyone's face, even Ryoko's. Was that a trick? she questioned herself, but no, Tenchi came and gave her a kiss on the lips. Phew! Maybe Christmas will be happy after all! Kiyone sighed. CHAPTER 4: Deck the Halls with Branches of Mistletoe! Kiyone was amazed as Christmas day developed. In the morning, everyone swapped presents. Kiyone had recieved a panda holding a bag of sweets from Mihoshi (which she had to admit was really cute), a book of science from Washu (half of the words she didn't understand, but it was still a great gift), a set of hair accessories from Ayeka, a crystal vase from Ryoko, and various other presents. But the best one was definitely the one from Tenchi - it was a beautiful, delicate silver loaket with an emerald that glittered many shades of green set in the centre. Inside was a note. Kiyone, it read, I'm glad you understood how the others felt. I think I do truly love you! Tenchi While she was reading it, Kiyone couldn't believe how happy it made her feel. But she didn't have long to savour the moment, because lunch was ready. "Wow!" yelled Mihoshi as Kiyone handed her her present and she tore of the wrapping. She hugged the bear, and then ripped open her present from Tenchi. It contained a bracelet made of gold with little animals all over in silver. "Yay!" she cried, pulling it on. Everyone smiled. Mihoshi was just like a kid at Christmas - maybe more so than Sasami! Mihoshi ran down to lunch with all her new presents and thanked everyone, then sat down and waited impatiently for her noodles. No-one minded that Kiyone and Tenchi weren't there yet, waiting to see Tenchi had greatly reduced their appetite at breakfast and they were starving now. As soon as Sasami handed round the food, Mihoshi picked up her fork. "Please, Mihoshi, you really ought to wait for our host first." Ayeka said, but kindly, completely unlike her usual haughty self. Mihoshi put down her fork, and made fortune-tellers and paper dolls out of her napkin. I'm so hungry! Tenchi sighed happily. On the landing he had crashed into Kiyone, and they had both gone bright red as they realised they were under mistletoe. Tenchi gave Kiyone a quick kiss (with tongues - yuck) and walked downstairs with her hand in his. He put his hand round the locket Kiyone was now wearing, and smiled. Kiyone batted his hand away playfully. "Kiyone, how about you tell me some more about yourself later? You've lived here for ages, but I don't think I even know the names of your family!" Kiyone grinned, and they entered the dining room still looking at each other lovingly. It's just not fair... Ryoko began to think, but as soon as the new couple entered her track of thought changed. But they DO look so happy! so she managed a cheerful face with ease as they sat down. Ryoko was very pleased anyway - her presents consisted of everything she wanted. Sasami sat down, and everyone began to tuck in. Ryoko chatted with Ayeka - and this was more surprising than anything else that year! Tenchi guessed, and correctly too, that since he was no longer available they weren't such enemies...and also thought that looking like best friends would improve his relationship with them. "So, any news Ayeka?" "Well, there was this place I found in the garden. I intended to take Tenchi there, but..." she waved her hand, trying to indicate what she meant. Ryoko understood. "So, how're you taking that anyway?" she asked, her mouth full of noodles. Normally Ayeka would have something not-so-pleasant to say about that, but right now she just answered. "Oh...disappointed, obviously, but Tenchi does seem happier with Kiyone than he ever did with me." "Yeah...I was thinking that sort of thing too." and so the conversation continued until dinner was over. Sasami was more relieved than anything else. Now Tenchi had made his decision, the house wouldn't shake every time Ryoko and Ayeka looked at each other. Though she knew that the mellow mood would vanish as soon as Christmas was over, so she tried to make the day the best one of everyone's lives. "How about we have a disco later?" she suggested. This was met all round with nods, so she went with Washu to sort out the equipment. Tenchi led Kiyone outside. It was cold, but Sasami had made her a black angora sweater, and she felt nice and warm...especially because of Tenchi's added heat. He walked out over the carrot fields, until they reached the spot Ayeka had found yesterday. "Kiyone..." he smiled, and they sat down by an icy pool. Kiyone stepped onto it, and glided round. Tenchi joined her, and promptly fell over. They both laughed, and retreated to the side. "So, you said you were going to tell me about your life." "Okay, I will! But wait until conversation draws that way." "Alright. When was the first time you went ice-skating?" "Uh...I was about ten years old, and me and Mihoshi..." "Oh no, not Mihoshi!" Tenchi laughed, and Kiyone giggled like she was ten again. "Yes, Mihoshi! Anyway, we slid onto the ice, and I was having loads of fun...and didn't mind it TOO much when Mihoshi crashed into me and we went skidding into a pile of snow. Just like something on t.v., actually! You know those cartoons where someone slips on the ice and crashes into a tree, and all this snow falls of the branches and covers them up?" "Yeah, I used to love those things. Do you watch Kimi no Penguins?" "Not really, but Mihoshi always does on the ship." and so the conversation went on, going in all directions until Kiyone began talking about her family and child-hood life. They kept talking for a while, had one last ice-skate, and a few kisses, then went in for the disco. CHAPTER 5: Boogie Nights! Everyone was changing in little rooms Nobuyuki had rigged up. Ryoko was wearing a gold mini-dress, with dark silver leopard print all over. Ayeka was wearing a blue clingy dress, very unusual for her style. Mihoshi was wearing a fluffy white jumper with tight trousers, and Washu was wearing some strange combinations, like a long black skirt and a red blouse. But Kiyone was the real star - she had a lovely flowing dress that shimmered loads of colours as she walked. I feel like Cinderella! she though, as she entered the disco with Tenchi and everyone gasped in amazement. Music started almost instantly, and everyone began to dance. It was very lively, so everyone could really let go. Sasami spun round with Ryo-ohki, Mihoshi bopped away madly, Washu and Ayeka used the proper moves, while Kiyone and Tenchi held hands and spun round, stepped forward, stepped back, and so on. "Tenchi!" Kiyone panted, "Can we...have...a rest?" Tenchi nodded, and danced with her over to the bar. Nobuyuki served them both a drink, and the slurped away. "Tenchi...." Kiyone started. He waited, but she just stopped. "Uh...what?" "Sorry, I just don't know what to say." "Mmm, I know the feeling." Kiyone sighed happily, and dragged Tenchi onto the dance floor. It was a dreamy song, that was very slow. Kiyone didn't know the name because it was new. Tenchi gently caressed her hand as they danced, and Kiyone snuggled up close. Ryoko was half-heartedly smiling at them, and Mihoshi was cheering. Kiyone went red. "How about we go outside?" Tenchi agreed, greatly relieved, and they walked out. They sat down by a bush that had a sweet fragrance hovering around it. Kiyone took Tenchi's hand, and moved her fingers around it. It was like a dance routine; she would take his first finger, then his second aswell, and his third, and finally his fourth. Then she dropped them and wrapped her fingers around his middle one. Then she would rub his hand and link fingers. Tenchi knew this was because as a child her parents had never truly loved her, never bounced her on their knee, never let her hand grasp a finger. All Tenchi now wanted to do was hold her like a baby, tell her everything would be okay. Music floated down from the house, and he picked her up. She was surprisingly light, and he twirled her around a few times in the air, then performed a kind of waltz. Her skirt billowed out, and her pearly shoes poked out from beneath. "I feel like i'm in a movie!" she giggled hopelessly. "A romance movie?" Tenchi enquired cheekily. Kiyone was bewildered; her Tenchi would never...but still, she grinned devilishly and nodded. Tenchi carried her back inside...and hopefully you can guess the rest. CHAPTER 6: Back To Reality I hate life. Ryoko was mooching around in her room. Tenchi loves ME, not Kiyone, ME! she grumbled in her brain. Through her window she could see Tenchi and Kiyone supposedly watching the sunrise in a deep and passionate kiss. That should be ME. She pulled on some clothes, not really bothering to see what they were, and blew a power blast out of her open window. Tenchi and Kiyone sprang apart. Ryoko closed the window quickly and thought depressing thoughts. Earlier they had been talking about love, and Ryoko had listened to all of it. As she walked downstairs, though, it was as if a weight had been lifted off her shoulders. I can be free! I don't have to chase Tenchi! she knew now that it had just been some kind of fleeting dream, her love for Tenchi...well, not a dream exactly, but something that had distracted her from fun. One: get decent clothes on. Two: Have breakfast. Three: Shop! Ryoko decided that losing Tenchi wasn't all that bad. Ayeka felt exactly the same way. I don't have to protect him from Ryoko, my life won't be one big chase... she smiled, pulled on the kimono Kiyone had given her and left for her spaceship, intending on a trip to the new Jurai. Ryoko first stopped off at her old haunt, a beach that always had some pretty good guys around. She dodged into a changing booth, pulled on her new bikini from Tenchi and sunbathed (being another planet, it was sunny rather than snowy). At once all the men sidled up the beach towards her, trying to look discreet. Heh heh heh, just like old times! Ryoko smiled sexily at them, and they came even closer. Suddenly she gasped. Amoung them was her old boyfriend! She jumped up, and all of the people scattered other than him. He smiled at Ryoko. "Ryoko. I thought i'd never see you again. Doing well?" Ryoko simply nodded, dumbstruck, but the tanned man continued. "Still remember good old Makozu here?" she nodded again. "I heard that you're going with Tenchi now?" (there was a hint of sadness in his voice). "N-no, actually, how about we get together on a date?" Ryoko asked, recovering her ego. Makozu smiled agreeably, and they caught a space taxi too some of the best places. Home at last! the princess had found herself in the middle of a ball at her palace, her parents welcoming her in and introducing her to Kasho, a nice man who she was privaleged to dance with. "So, Princess Ayeka, I haven't seen you around here recently." Was I really this snobby? Ayeka asked herself, his voice seeming just a little too posh for her. "Oh, I was on Earth, with, um, a boy called, um, Tenchi Masaki." "Tenchi? The one who can summon the Light Hawk Wings?" "Yes." Ayeka was led gently to the dance floor, still chatting compatibly with Kasho while dancing. "Please, call me Kash. Much simpler." Ayeka blushed a teensy bit and followed his moves, not making too many mistakes. ********************************************************************* At this point I would like to intervene with a few annoying comments. *I know this isn't that good, but i'm not at my highest of writing standards currently. *I'm going to write a better FanFic sometime, don't be scared by this. *I took a vote on who Tenchi should fall in love with, all you fans. *The next part takes place a few years later. *It ISN'T the end...just I can't be bothered to write any more YET. ********************************************************************* CHAPTER 7: Who Your Real Friends Are Kiyone sighed happily as the movie came to an end. She was sitting next to Tenchi in the back row, and now that they had been together 5 years she knew every expression on his face by heart. It was currently worried. "Tenchi? What's wrong?" "Oh...will you come home to the secret garden with me, Kiyone?" "Uh, sure, I guess." the ex-police officer followed him to the spaceship he had been given by Ayeka when she had decided to stay and live with her husband Kasho. They flew home, Kiyone whispering small lines of poetry (a habit she had developed somehow over the years. It nearly always contained an element of humor [Mihoshi, in other words] or love [Tenchi]). "Kiyone, you haven't seen any of the girls for ages." "Luckily!" "What?!?!" "Just kidding!" they landed, and Tenchi led her over to the warm pool. It was summer now, and the air was filled with scents and smells from various flowers. "I'm going to have to do this quickly!" "What?" "Hmm...how to start... Kiyone, you are my leading star, my sun..." he couldn't continue for Kiyone's helpless laughter and his own. It was quoted from the movie. "Okay, okay, go on. Sorry." "Well...willyoumarryme?" "Pardon?" Tenchi took a deep breath, swallowed, and Kiyone interrupted. "Oh! Uh..." Tenchi went bright red and got a nosebleed. Kiyone sighed and wiped it away with a tissue. Then she smiled. "Yes, Tenchi, I will!" Tenchi sighed gratefully, and handed her a ring. "Tenchi, it matches the locket you gave me all those years ago!" "Yep, that's why I chose it." "Oh, thankyou! But..." "What, Kiyone?" "Oh...nothing..." little did Tenchi know that Kiyone had recently begun to lose interest in Tenchi. Maybe if we get married our love will become stronger... Kiyone didn't realise that Tenchi was thinking the exact same thing - except he had begun to visit Ryoko more and more frequently. A few days later Kiyone was standing at the shrine they were to be wed at. She was waiting for Tenchi...who would never arrive. He was at Ryoko's apartment, kissing her. "Tenchi...go...Kiyone..." her eyes blazed, and Tenchi weakened his hold on her. "But Ryoko..." "Tenchi..." he gripped her again. (Lets skip this bit, I don't like hentai). Kiyone was furious. She stormed over to Ryoko's apartment, to tell her so-called friend what had happened. I'm pretty sure anyone reading this can guess what she found. "T-T-Tenchi!" "Kiyone? What are you doing here?" "More to the point, what are you doing, Tenchi?" "Uh...I..." Kiyone stamped over, slapped him hard across the face and left. Tenchi rubbed the hand-mark. "Tenchi, it's okay, at least she knows now." Ryoko tried to comfort him, but he just sat there, fingering the red slap mark. It turned out Kiyone's disappearing love for Tenchi had been wise. When she found out, she wasn't distressed or upset, just angry. "Mihoshi, how could he do that?" Kiyone was happy to be back with her old partner, at her old job, at her old strong-point. "Don't worry, Kiyone." "I'm not! I'm just furious!" Mihoshi nodded, feeling stupid. "Here, have this present." she handed Kiyone a big bag of sweets. Kiyone smiled weakly. "Thanks. I guess I really know who my friends are!" They hugged like true friends, and Mihoshi looked at her watch which had begun bleeping madly. "Mihoshi! Mihoshi, where are you? We've waited 5 years for you to come and complete those tasks for promotion!" "I, uh...oh..." Mihoshi fainted, and Kiyone just stood there looking amazed. "Mihoshi? Promotion? But...but...why not me?" "Sorry, Kiyone." Kiyone gasped, and walked out. Maybe I was wrong. Maybe you don't know who your real friends are. WHY DIDN'T SHE TELL ME? Wha...where... Mihoshi's head throbbed. She looked at her watch. The superviser was still there. Kiyone wasn't. Well, in the room that is, not the watch... "Mihoshi? Are you okay now?" "Yeah. Where did Kiyone go?" "I don't think she was too happy about you getting a promotion possibility and not her, then not telling her about it for five years." "But...I forgot!" "Well, come and do it now." "Not if Kiyone can't come." Mihoshi staid stubbornly. "Why?" "Because she's better than me!" "But...but..." "Let her come!" "Let me see...." the superviser checked his papers. "Okay, she has done things worthy of promotion. She can come and join in. You must be very good friends." "I thought we were." Mihoshi choked in a whisper too quiet for anyone to hear. She rushed outside. "Kiyone! Kiyone, come back! He said...you...could come...and get...promoted!" her breath was slowly running out, but Kiyone still turned, her eyes alight with hope. She ran back. "Really?" Mihoshi was too puffed to speak, so Kiyone handed her a bottle of water. Mihoshi drank some, coughed, and spluttered water everywhere. Kiyone laughed and cleaned her up. "C'mon, Mihoshi, lets go shopping." Mihoshi nodded, and the walked away to Kiyone's spaceship. ~THE END~