Disclaimer- Tenchi Muyo TV is the property of AIC and Pioneer. Indigo, Matthias… the list goes on are mine. I’m not receiving any money at all for this. A Crown of Lies Chapter 4- Song of a Heart The clear water sparkled as the sun shined down from the sky. Ripples formed on it, gracefully dancing outward as two sets of feet lightly touched its surface. Ryoko smiled as her daughter slowly lowered into the stream. The little girl grinned back as she slowly descended into the water. She was clad in a red one-piece bathing suit while her hair stood free, her spiky locks taking on the appearance of her mother. “So how’s the water?” Ryoko asked as she sat down on the bank of the stream. Ryoko extended her legs out over the water and slowly lowered them into the clear liquid. “It’s warm,” Achika replied as she floated lower, the water reaching her knees. “Are you gonna come in mommy?” Achika asked as the liquid reached her waist. “Please?” “I don’t think so” Ryoko replied. “Aww. Come on,” Achika responded. “Pretty please?” An idea popped into her head as her mother was about to reply. Playfully, she splashed the ex-Space Pirate. “Hey! Now Achi, don’t make me get in there.” Ryoko giggled as she shielded herself from the onslaught of water. Achika only splashed harder. Ryoko grinned at her as her jean shorts and t-shirt were replaced by the red bathing suit she had worn at the swimsuit contest all those years ago. “Alright that’s it. The queen of splash is here.” Achika laughed as her mother entered the water and knelt down. The little girl barely had time to shy away as the cyan haired beauty splashed her. “Then I’m the princess of splash.” Achika returned her own volley of water. The sounds of their laughter echoed throughout the forest as the mother and daughter continued their game. ________ “Tenchiiii,” Sasami squealed with delight as she broke free of her mothers grasp and launched herself upon the priest in training. “I knew I would see you again,” she cried as she buried her face in his chest. Tears of happiness left their mark on his white robes. Aeka turned her attention from the genius Washu to the crown prince of Jurai, taking in his visage as she did. Her breath caught in her throat as she stared upon the object of her affection. ‘He is even more handsome than before,’ she discovered, her eyes wide with astonishment. His beautiful smile… his tone muscles… his warm eyes… Aeka found her heart beating faster with every second she spent staring at Tenchi. ‘His face was a little too round before, but now…’ Aeka though with a chuckle. Tenchi barely had time to cry out in surprise before a certain purple haired princess nearly squeezed the life out of him. “Hey Sasami. Hey Aeka,” he managed to get out. “It’s so good too…” His ability for speech was lost as Queen Misaki Jurai showed him what a real hug was. “Ooooooh. So this is that kawaii boyfriend of yours, isn’t it Aeka? He’s just so kawaiiii!!!” “Boyfriend?!” Tenchi managed to squeeze out. The blush on Aeka’s face only got redder. Suddenly, she became very interested in her feet. “Well not really boyfriend mother.” Tenchi uttered a silent prayer as the enthusiastic queen turned around. “Well, I guarantee he will be by the time we leave,” she declared, forming the victory sign with both her hands. ‘This is definitely not good. Not only do I have to tell Aeka about Ryoko and me, but I have to do it with her mother here.’ Tenchi stole another glance at Misaki. ‘And by the looks of it, she’s not going to be too happy. With that strength… I don’t even want to think about what she’ll do to me. ’ “It’s great to see you all again,” Tenchi exclaimed with happiness. It truly was good to see all his friends, even if they brought new faces with them. He looked at the new people that had arrived. He had already discovered that Misaki was Aeka and Sasami’s mother. But then, who were the other two people? A man with red hair stood next to Azaka and a woman who looked to be the same age as Misaki, with navy blue, almost black hair, was standing next to Washu. “I am Queen Funaho Jurai, and this is Matthias Hake’,” Funaho said warmly, well aware of the confusion that was plaguing Tenchi. “I would appreciate you allowing us to stay with you.” “Of course you can stay… that is of course if it’s ok with dad and grandpa.” Tenchi looked over at his grandfather and saw one emotion he had never seen the shrine keeper show. Katsuhito, for what Tenchi thought was the first time in old man’s life, was surprised. “Hey grandpa, what’s up?” Curiosity began to overwhelm the man. ‘I wonder what it is about Queen Funaho that’s got Grandfather in such a mess.’ Katsuhito shook off his daze and turned to his grandson. “Tenchi. You will have time for talking with your friends later. Right now, I want you to finish your training for the day and run back to the house.” A conspiratorial wink from the shrine keeper was all Tenchi needed to understand the true meaning behind grandfather’s words. ‘Right grandpa,’ he mentally agreed. ‘I’ll get back to the house and prepare everyone, especially ‘Oko and Achika.’ ‘What am I going to do about my little pirate? Achika is a clear symbol of my love for Ryoko,’ another side of him said. ‘What happens will… I don’t think Aeka will make that assumption right away. Hopefully she won’t. It looks like they’re all tired from their journey and tonight’s definitely not the night for breaking her heart.’ ‘And is that good enough?’ ‘It’ll have to be,’ he concluded. “See you all in a couple of minutes,” Tenchi called out as he began to run towards the steps to the shrine. “Oh and Tenchi,” Katsuhito yelled out. Tenchi stopped quickly, turning his head to look at the group that was behind him. “There are no shortcuts in life therefore there shall not be shortcuts in your training. Take the trail to the right,” he said while pointing to a trail cut into the woods. “Why don’t we say powers are not allowed?” Tenchi grimaced at his grandfather. ‘Even though he knows how important it is I get home as fast I can, he still pushes me harder. Sheesh, this isn’t going very well for me at all.’ “Okay Grandpa,” he consented. With a final nod at his guests, he launched himself across the clearing heading for the designated trail. ________ “Why can’t grandpa ever go easy on me?” Tenchi complained as he sprinted down the path, a thin layer of cherry blossoms covering the ground. He could not hold the grimace on his face as he stopped dead in his tracks. Both corners of his lips perked up as he listened to the joyous noises coming from farther up the path. Stealth fully he crept towards the female laughter, making as little noise as possible. ‘So this is why grandpa had me come this way. Wonder how he knew?’ Tenchi sighed as he leaned against a tree. ‘Then again, he always knows.’ “I give up, I give up,” Ryoko cried from the muddy shore of the river. The splashing match had escalated into ‘Masaki Women Mud Wrestling.’ Tenchi could not contain his laughter as he watched his wife, pretend to struggle on the ground as Achika sat on Ryoko’s back, doing her best to keep her mother from getting up. Tenchi doubled over as they both stopped their wrestling match to look at him. Both of them blinked in confusion causing Tenchi to nearly fall onto the ground from laughter. They were completely covered with mud, their eyes, the only part of their bodies to escape the brown substance. “You too, look…” Tenchi tried to get out. He took a couple deep breaths trying to calm himself down. “So funny,” he blurted out while breaking into laughter once again. Ryoko and Achika grinned at each other, sharing a little conspiratorial wink before looking back at the man both of them loved with all their hearts. Tenchi looked up in time to see two would-be cyan haired females begin to inch their way towards him. “Now wait,” Tenchi begged beginning to backup. “I didn’t mean funny as funny funny. You two look beautiful.” “Tell us something we don’t know honey,” Ryoko returned, neither she nor her daughter halting their advance. Mischief gleamed in their cat like eyes. “C’mon. You know how it is to get stains out of these robes, and besides…” Tenchi stopped speaking as he felt his back hit something hard. ‘Uh-oh, a tree…’ ________ “Matthias, what is it?” Aeka asked as she quickened her pace to catch up to her guardian. The whole group had begun their trek back to the Masaki house yet Aeka had noticed that something was bothering the red haired knight. Matthias didn’t acknowledge the princess as he kept descending the stairs. Both of them were at the end of the pack, falling behind the rest. “Matthias, did you hear me?” Aeka asked. Again, Aeka received no response. She grabbed his arm, successfully stopping him. “Listen to me. What is the matter?” Intense brown eyes stared into crimson ones. Matthias looked down while shaking his head. ‘How can she even ask that? She gives her heat to that black haired priest lackey, and she asks me what is the matter.’ ‘Shut up you idiot. Even if Tenchi is totally undeserving of Princess Aeka, it is her decision and her life. Stop judging her,’ he answered himself. “Just planning out how to keep you safe in such a barbaric place as this,” he replied, burying his feelings and flashing a grin. “Mat,” Aeka reprimanded, playfully elbowing him in the ribs. “It is really wonderful here if you give it a chance. Besides these are my friends here.” “I know, but you can never be too careful when your little posse assembles. I mean, look at the trouble you all caused. Breaking through a Jurain checkpoint, leading a coup det’at, and the list goes on,” he teased. Aeka gave him another elbow as she began to giggle. “Really Matthias. You’re horrible.” “Yeah but you love it,” he taunted. The pair had gone astray from the others, traveling oblivious to the world as they slowly made their way towards the house. However, they did not care. ________ “Did you have to get me this dirty?” Tenchi moaned as he sat up. He gave him self the once over and sighed. “I have to take a shower now.” “You were the one that decided to laugh dearest,” Ryoko chimed standing next to Achika, admiring the paint job they had given Tenchi. Achika giggled as Tenchi teleported behind her and hefted her up onto his shoulders. Ryoko felt content as she looked at her family. Her family. All she would ever need was Tenchi and Achika. And she knew that they felt the same exact way about her. A warm feeling that caused her to shake with excitement crept up in her as she felt the love she shared with them. “What’s up?” Tenchi asked with a grin, having taken notice of her actions. “You’re shaking." He shifted his body and arms to allow her to get closer to him doing his while he kept both his hands on Achika’s feet. She happily obliged. “Just from happiness,” Ryoko murmured blissfully. They began to walk back to the house, Achika pulling leaves down from the branches that hung over her head. “So what was it you needed to tell me?” “Huh, tell you?” “While you were begging like a little kid to not get dirty, you said something about you really having to tell me something. Oh and by the way. You’re definitely going to have to take a shower before we go on our date. You stink.” Tenchi stopped. ‘I can’t believe I forgot about telling her about Aeka and the others! And we have a date tonight. Kami… this isn’t going my way.’ He took a deep breath. “’Oko honey, Aeka, Sasami, Washu, and Azaka have come back. Just a couple of minutes ago.” “Really?” Ryoko asked, excitement very apparent in her voice. ‘So that’s what Kamidake meant by "they’re here".’ Tenchi nodded his head as he was given a hug from his wife, though it was more of a tackle than a hug. Achika floated of her father’s shoulders not wanting to be caught in her mud covered mothers death grip. “Hey, c’mon Ryoko,” Tenchi laughed as she squeezed him tighter. She lifted her head up to his ear placing a soft kiss on the lobe before she began to talk. “I told you Tenchi. You just had to wait. Our carnival is back.” “Ryoko,” Tenchi said with a broad smile as she brought her head back so she was staring into his eyes. He caressed one of her cheeks lightly tracing the outline of her jaw. “Remember that I love you.” Ryoko smiled back. “I know. It’ll all work out Tenchi. You realize now that your bill’s going to be expensive tonight don’t you?” “What,” Tenchi asked. The couple parted their embrace although Tenchi firmly held his wife’s hand in his. Ryoko gave him a feral grin. “Well I don’t exactly have that much food in the house. And plus, your not going to want to tell Aeka today, right after her trip. Don’t you think it’d be a little suspicious if we both went out tonight?” “That makes sense,” Tenchi agreed. “Of course it does,” Ryoko added while pressing one of her fingers to his lips. “Now what do you say you join me in the women’s bath to get cleaned off.” She retracted her finger from his lip and held it in front of her mouth as she seductively gave it a quick flick of her tongue. “Now ‘Oko, honey,” Tenchi began, his body feeling the effects of her motions. She brushed her tongue across her finger again, her fangs poking out from behind her upper lip. Her personality was not that of a prim, proper, shy lady in the slightest. She could be selfish, and vain at times yet her brash personality and catlike features only augmented her womanly charm. She was incredibly unique, a personality unlike Tenchi had never seen before. She never was lacking in energy, keeping him on his toes, yet he could relax around her as well. Life was never boring for him. And as time progressed Tenchi found himself loving her only more. Every part of her, from her faults to her strengths, her individuality to the love she had for him… everything about her he loved. “But Tenchi… I can’t let you stray away from me now that that other women came back. And I really want to take a bath with you,” she added as she smiled at him slyly. Achika’s cyan-haired pigtails bobbed up and down as she carefully crept away from her parents trying to remain unnoticed. Her inherited sense of wildness pushed her on towards trouble and mischief. And being a four year old, sneaking away from her parents was a very entertaining game. ‘Almost there,’ she though with happiness, hoping she had successfully avoided her parents radar. Her fathers voice diminished any hope of that possibility as she stopped in her tracks. “But Ryoko,” Tenchi replied every second losing his will to object to her pleas. “What about that little troublemaker over there?” he said pointing to Achika who was slowly making her way away from her parents. Realizing she had been caught she put on her biggest smile in the hopes that they wouldn’t notice her real intent. Ryoko cleared her throat loudly as she stared at her daughter sternly. Achika’s shoulders dropped with the realization that she was not hiding anything from her parents. “Now you wouldn’t happen to be trying to sneak away, would you young lady?” Tenchi hid a smile at the interaction, bringing up his hands to his mouth to further conceal his amusement. ‘Motherhood has changed her…’ he realized. ‘But then again, Dad says that about the both of us all the time.’ Actually now that he really thought about it, the more his fathers accusations gained truth. ‘Achika really has changed us…’ ‘No not just our little girl. Life has changed us. Our love… everything has changed us. And I can honestly say I have no regrets.’ He let out a chuckle earning a glare and a sigh from his wife. “Tenchi, how am I supposed to be the heavy if your laughing up a storm? And what does that teach Achika?” Ryoko reprimanded. “Be careful ‘Oko. You might get wrinkles if you keep yelling at me like that.” “Tenchi, be serious,” Ryoko growled giving him a glare, although her glare faded as she stared into his brown eyes. “I can’t even stay mad at you for a minute,” she said incredulously. She looked down as she gave out a sigh, but began to laugh as she looked back into his eyes. ‘Kami-sama Tenchi,’ Ryoko laughed to herself. ‘What do I do with you? We can never stay mad at each other.’ “Now Achika, your mother is right. I know you want to run off, but the world is a dangerous place and your mother and I would be really sad if something happened to you. “ Tenchi put on a pout to emphasize his point. “Sorry daddy, mommy,” Achika confessed. “That’s ok Achi. It’s just that we love you so much.” Ryoko smiled at Achika as she floated into the air, landing beside her daughter. “I love you too,” Achika cried hugging her mother. Guilt had begun to set in a little on her innocent heart, causing her to get a little teary. Tenchi happily approached them and joined in the embrace. “Now listen you two, we might have some hard times ahead of us, but remember that I’ll always love you no matter what happens.” Tenchi had an uncanny ability to make any situation better. His words always made her feel better and gave her strength. That was what made her certain that everything would turn out all right with Aeka. “Why don’t you two get cleaned up in the women’s bath while I take a shower in mine. Then we can meet with all the others and make reservations for dinner.” Ryoko and Achika nodded their heads in unison. The wind blew stirring cherry blossoms as the happy family teleported away. ________ “Where is Lord Tenchi?” Aeka fumed. “If that devil woman is doing anything to him, I swear that I’ll… I’ll…” There was a collective sigh as Aeka ranted on. Aeka and Matthias had finally made reached the Masaki home to find a couple surprises. The bounty hunter Nagi and a new acquaintance, the space pirate Indigo were guests at the Masaki home. Introduction had been made and the group had settled down, yet Tenchi hadn’t returned. That was about when she had learned Ryoko had come back to earth and she was not accounted for as well... And a Ryoko and Tenchi, both missing in action at the same time was definitely not a good thing. “Now Sister, calm down,” Sasami eased, grabbing her sister’s hands. “We just got here and we don’t want to make a scene. And I’d be very ashamed if you were mean to Ryoko when we just got back. Especially when you’ve missed everyone including her.” Aeka sighed, realizing the truth in her sister’s words. “I’m sorry Sasami, everybody. Your right.” A smile crossed her face. “And even though I hate to admit it,” she said as her smile grew even bigger, “I did miss that devil pirate.” Sasami’s flashed one of her million dollar smiles happy her sister was seeing it her way. “Ahh that felt good,” a male voice stated from the tops of the stairs. Tenchi Masaki draped the damp towel over one shoulder as he began to climb down the steps. “Umm Lord Tenchi?” Aeka asked in amazement. ‘How did he get up there? I’ve never saw him go up the steps, let alone enter the house.’ His soft warm gaze made her heart beat faster. ‘Tenchi…’ “Tenchiiiii,” A melodious voice called out as Ryoko Masaki teleported into the unsuspecting arms of her husband. Her hair dripped with moisture as she laid her head on his shoulder. “Thanks for the shower, lover.” She grinned mischievously as she looked at the first crown princess of Jurai. Much to her surprise, Aeka burst out into laughter. Ryoko floated out of Tenchi’s arms and to the floor as she stared at Aeka in utter confusion. Where had the hotheaded princess gone? Usually Aeka would be reprimanding he about now, yet she wasn’t. Instead, she was laughing at some joke no one had caught on to. “You know what pirate? I missed you,” Aeka said with a smile. Her laughter subsided but the happy atmosphere of the room did not fade. “Strange to think that I’d miss someone as rude, annoying and ugly as you but I did.” Ryoko smiled back, happy to see her rival hadn’t changed. “Same goes for me Aeka. We need a couple flat chests around here to even out things.” There was a hiss of matter as two cabbits bounded happily into the room. “Ryo-ohki, Ken-ohki!” a youthful voice called as Achika Masaki ran into the room. “Give me back my scrunchies,” she ordered, her loose cyan hair taking on an appearance incredibly similar to her mothers. The two cabbits, each with a red hair-tie in their mouth sprinted away, enjoying their game. “Hey that’s no fair,” Achika yelled as her little legs moved her after her prey. She stumbled and fell into the welcoming arms of Misaki. “Oh, your such a kawaii little girl,” the blue haired queen declared as she enveloped the daughter of Tenchi and Ryoko in one of her trademark bear hugs. The little girls eyes became wide with surprise. Ryoko teleported over to the both of them in a flash, and she managed to pry her air-deprived daughter from the overzealous queen. “You okay Achi?” Ryoko whispered to her daughter. Achika barely had anytime to answer before both cyan haired woman were lifted into another bear hug. “Ahhh” Ryoko cried out. “Who are you?” “Oh, and this must be your daughter. You must be so proud of her… who’s the lucky father?” she asked as she continued to hug the two females. “What is this?” a quiet voice asked. The room fell silent. “What is this Ryoko?” Aeka asked again. “Is this true? Is this girl your daughter.” “Yeah she is princess,” Ryoko confirmed. “She’s my little Achika.” Ryoko bent down and picked her daughter up. “Isn’t that right little pirate?” “Yeah,” Achika cheered. ‘What is this? Ryoko has a daughter? It definitely looks like her but…’ She stole another glance at the happy mother and daughter. ‘Who’s the father?’ She scanned the room, purposefully avoiding Tenchi for fear that the father was who her gut told her it was. Her eyes stopped on Indigo. ‘He’s a space pirate, and likes attract. True Achika doesn’t look like him but maybe it has something to do with recessive genes. That must mean that…’ “Oh Ryoko, Indigo. I’m so happy for both of you!” There was a collective sigh though Aeka’s was of relief. ‘And if she’s in love with that pirate, that means Lord Tenchi is ala my mine. With my fathers orders for our union he can’t refuse.’ Her mind out played one of her dreams of Tenchi confessing his love to her. ‘And we’ll get married and rule over Jurai and have children.’ Her heart swelled with happiness as she dreamed of the future. “But Aeka, me and Indigo aren’t…” Ryoko interrupted. “Oh nonsense. No need to be embarrassed about it. I’m-“ “But Aeka…” “so-“ “we really aren’t…” “happy for you,” Aeka finished. Ryoko sighed again realizing that it was futile to oppose any longer. ‘I guess it could be worse… And this might give us the time to get her ready for me and Tenchi.’ She looked over at her lover and gave him a look that let him know it was still him and only him that she loved. He smiled back at her. Indigo sighed as he quietly made his way out of the room. It was best not to get too involved with matters until he knew the family better. “This just complicates things,” he realized. “What complicates what?” a voice asked from the shadows. Nagi emerged from the shadowed doorway of the Masaki house. She walked forward and set down on the floor of the walkway attaching the shed to the house. Her legs draped over where the floor ended and her feet hovered over the grass. Indigo sat down next to her. “Well, the Jurains coming here in general. It might help us but we’ll most likely end up leaving them behind. It’ll be too hard with them.” “What exactly are we going to do? And why are you suddenly including me with Ryoko and her man?” Nagi’s curiosity was peeked yet it was odd to consider herself a part of Ryoko’s group. Even stranger was that she actually enjoyed the thought. ‘Guess she really is my friend…’ “You know, you should really call Tenchi by his own name. You make him sound so insignificant by calling him Ryoko’s man.” Indigo watched as the clouds rolled on across the vast blue sky. “Since when are you in a position to judge me, and answer my question,” Nagi said with a little edge to her voice. “Don’t tell me it offends you because you have a thing for that guy?” “Noo!” Indigo replied as he jumped up. “I definitely don’t have a thing for him at all. Nothing. He’s just a pretty cool guy from what I’ve seen and he acts nice. It’s not like I like him. I’m straight!!! I’m into women!” His response came so fast that every sentence seemed to merge into one. Nagi found that she was laughing as the space pirate tried to convince her of his sexuality. The frantic look on his face made her laugh that much harder. “Relax Indigo, I’m was joking. And if you did like him, you’d probably get decked by Ryoko.” “Don’t want that to happen again,” he agreed. “Wait, you’ve already been in a fight with Ryoko,” Nagi asked incredulously. “Can’t you tell?” he asked as he pointed to the bruise on his cheek. “Though it was a pretty one-sided fight if you can call it a fight.” He sat down with a chuckle. “ She knocked me out in one punch.” “What’d you do?” Indigo sighed at the memory. “I called her a bitch.” “Yep, that would do it,” Nagi confirmed. “Though I got to hand it to you, you’ve got a lot of guts opposing Ryoko like that. Most people would cower in her presence.” “I didn’t know that she was the space pirate Ryoko. Plus I had to act that way.” He turned his back to her as he began to walk down the path into the woods. “Hey wait up,” Nagi called out as she got up and ran next to Indigo. Needless to say, she was very curious at what his cryptic answer meant. “What do you mean had to act that way?” Indigo turned to look upon the woman who had earlier threatened his life. “Well you’ll just have to pry that out of me, won’t you?” He turned his back to her and continued to walk. ‘Stupid Pirate,’ Nagi thought as she followed him into the woods. ________ “Have you ever wondered why women go to the bathroom in groups?” Noboyuki asked at the large yet only occupied by males table Tenchi had gotten. They had left the house leaving behind Funaho, who had plans to spend the evening with Katsuhito, Nagi, Indigo, Azaka and Kamidake. The knights had chosen to stay at the Masaki home to discuss some news and Nagi and Indigo had seemed to disappear. The restaurant in which Tenchi and Ryoko had originally planned on using for their date was more than happy to accommodate an even larger party than they had anticipated. So it was that Tenchi, Noboyuki and Matthias were left alone at the table, all because a little girl had announced she had to use the restroom. “I have no clue dad, it’s got to be one of those unsolved mysteries.” Noboyuki stood up and walked over to his son, leaning over him so he could whisper in Tenchi’s ear. “What’s the matter with him?” he asked as he looked over at Matthias. The knight was watching the dance floor, though he seemed to be gazing out into space more than looking at the couples dancing. “I don’t know dad, he just started zoning out when Aeka and the others left.” The red headed knight continued staring at nothing oblivious to the discussion the two Masaki’s were having. “Well I have an idea then,” Noboyuki said with a grin as he left the table and started towards the bar. ‘Wonder what he’s doing now,’ Tenchi thought as he looked towards the restrooms. He still hadn’t decided on how to break the news to Aeka, however her own assumption gave him the time he needed to figure out how to give her his decision without driving her away. He only wished that she didn’t have to be hurt. A loud thump grabbed his attention. Noboyuki smiled with a glint of mischief as he produced three glasses and pointed to the bottle of Saki on the table. ‘Even knights will drink,’ he reasoned. ‘And after a couple glasses, he’ll be blabbing on like a maniac. Noboyuki got to hand it to yourself. Forget Washu, you’re the genius around here.’ “Is that so?” a nasally voice asked from behind him. “What do you mean Washu, dad didn’t say anything,” Tenchi pointed, as his father spun around. Washu signaled for Noboyuki to bend down so she could whisper in his ear. ‘Ohh I hope this doesn’t mean what I think it does,’ he though with dread as the smile on the redheaded genius’s face turned into an evil grin. He gulped audibly. “Yup it does,” she stated as she removed an incredibly machine with the appearance of a crab from his shoulder. “Consider yourself honored. You’ve been the first guinea pig for the Washu’s patented Mind reader!” The two chibi-Washu’s scurried out of her hair and onto her shoulders. “Yay Washu” they cheered in unison. Noboyuki let loose a yelp as they jumped up onto his head. “Washu is a genius, not you,” chibi-Washu A declared. “Yeah, don’t even compare yourself to her. Her genius is so great that she turn you into a monkey, by just thinking it,” chibi-Washu B added. “Yup that’s right,” Washu agreed. “Washu’s the best,” chibi-Washu B continued. “And don’t your forget it,” chibi-Washu A stated. They scurried back into her hair, as the genius began to laugh in her usual, mad genius manner. “Washu stop it,” Tenchi said as he ran next to her. “We’re on Earth remember, people don’t have dolls do that!” Tenchi stood up and began to scratch the back of his head. “Umm sorry, she’s got some wild toys.” The chatter that had stopped when Washu had appeared out of nowhere next to Noboyuki, resumed as the rest of the people in the restaurant decided to forget about what they had just seen. “What happened here?” Sasami asked as she took sat down on the table next to Achika. Aeka sighed as she took her place next to her sister. Her normal spot next to Tenchi had been taken over by that devil woman’s daughter. The whole thing of Ryoko and Achika referring to Tenchi as the father of Achika had been on her nerves. ‘That Indigo doesn’t look like much of a father though, and Tenchi being kind hearted as he is probably took over the position to help out Ryoko.’ Her heart swelled at the thought of her Tenchi doing such a noble act. She had been able to accept the circumstances with that conclusion, therefore, taking a place next to Sasami and Matthias instead. Sasami had immediately hit it off with Achika and had played until they had had to leave for the restaurant. Even she found herself, loving the little girl. Even the little girl’s father daughter relationship with Tenchi didn’t bother her that much. However throughout all this, she couldn’t forget that Tenchi was hers. The thought just put a smile on her face. And the best part was that they would be together without anyone being hurt. Ryoko had already chosen Indigo so therefore; she wasn’t in love with Tenchi and wouldn’t be hurt by their dating and eventual marriage. Life was truly going beautifully for her. She suppressed all her thoughts of her father’s captivity. ‘He wouldn’t want me to be sad, so I won’t be,’ she reasoned. ‘And besides,’ she thought as a slow song began to play, ‘I can’t be sad when me and Tenchi dance.’ She got up and walked over to the priest in training who was, much to her dismay, carrying on a conversation with her rival. Ryoko was probably her best friend beyond Tenchi, but in Aeka’s opinion, she didn’t need to be that close, especially since she already had someone. She lightly tapped Tenchi on the shoulder, just as he took a sip of sake. ‘When did Tenchi started drinking?’ she thought. She felt her face go red as she worked up her courage. “L-l-l-lord Tenchi?” “Yes Aeka,” he replied, his features calm and cool. It made her blush that much harder. “Would you dance with me?” Matthias gave a sigh as Misaki elbowed him. “See, there’s my little girl. She’ll have him begging to marry her by the end of the night. Oh, my dear Aeka. You’ve grown up so fast.” “Sure,” Tenchi agreed as he got up. He froze, hesitant for a second and stole a quick glance at his wife. She nodded and he relaxed and led her to the dance floor. ‘Wonder what that’s all about?’ Washu thought as she looked at Ryoko. Unknown to the pirate, her chopsticks had snapped in half, and her knuckles where white. “Ahh sorry,” Ryoko said as a pain in her hand brought her to the realization of what she had done. ‘Just because I want to ease her pain, and am letting her dance with my Tenchi doesn’t mean I have to like it. I swear, if she pulls one move on my husband… I’ll…’ “Mommy, are you ok? You’re bleeding,” Achika asked. She wore a look of worry as she glanced at her mother’s hand and then back at her face. “Oh, I’m fine,” Ryoko said as she began to blush. “Come with me Achi,” She said quickly as she got up and headed for the restrooms again. ‘Hmmm, I wonder…’ Washu thought as she returned to her meal. ________ “Mommy, why is daddy dancing with that other lady?” Achika asked innocently from her seat on the counter. Ryoko removed the last splinter of wood telepathically and then put her hand under the running water. She felt her healing abilities taking affect as she let out a sigh. The water was only to hide the greenish glow surrounding her wound as it mended itself. ‘I’m lucky no-one has come in here,’ she thought. “That other lady is one of our friends, and she…” ‘Great, how do I explain love to a four year old?’ “Well, she feels a certain way about daddy.” “What way?” Ryoko sighed again. This was truly a hard task. “Well… she wants it to be so that daddy and her are mommy and daddy. So she and daddy could kiss and hug…” Achika let out a wail as she hugged her mother with all her might. “Hey what’s wrong Achi?” “But that’s not gonna happen, is it? I don’t want her to be mommy. I want you to be my mommy. And you and daddy to kiss and hug and…” “Oh Achi, don’t worry baby.” Ryoko rubbed the girls back trying to calm her down. “I’m always going to be your mommy, and so will daddy. Nothings going to change. Of course, it can’t help to grab your daddy’s attention. You think I should wear the outfit I was gonna where tonight before all our friends came back?” “You mean the one that we bought as a big surprise for daddy?” “Yup,” Ryoko said with a grin. She held out her hand, which Achika gladly grabbed, and the two females teleported home just as a woman entered the bathroom. The woman scratched her head in confusion. “Huh, I must be seeing things,” she said to herself as she walked over to the sink and applied some blush to her face. ________ Ryoko closed her eyes as her attire changed. Originally, she had been wearing a red dress that wasn’t very elegant. It was pretty comfortable, and she looked good in it so she had chosen it to wear for her outing opposed to what she was originally going to wear. A glittering black dress replaced the one she had just been wearing it had a low v cut, exposing some of her ample bosom, and was slit down the right side for greater mobility. Achika giggled a little as she held up a stick of lipstick and a jewelry box that held two diamond earrings. Tenchi had given Ryoko the earrings for her birthday shortly after they had married. She could still feel the excitement, she had felt when her love had been returned and they had become one. That feeling had never gone away. “Wow… you look pretty!” Achika exclaimed. She clapped her hands as Ryoko spun around, enjoying the positive feedback. “Daddy’s gonna get a bloody nose like he does when you dress real, real nice.” “I hope so, well should we get back?” All it took was a nod of the head from Achika before the two cyan haired females were back at the restaurant. ________ “Hey Sasami,” Achika called out as she made her way towards the table. Ryoko stood behind her guiding her daughter through the restaurant with one hand on each of the little girl’s shoulders. “Oh hey, Achika,” Sasami cheered. She watched as Ryoko let her daughter go and run up to the table. Seeing Achika was safe, she disappeared back into the crowd with one destination in mind. She didn’t pay attention to the males that she had suddenly attracted. “Hey baby,” a voice said from in front of her. She looked to the source of the voice and found a smug looking man with two of his friends by the look of it. His face held too much self-confidence to the point where he looked like his ego made his choices. She could tell he had not yet come to the realization that he was deniable. And plus, she observed as she got closer, he must have been drunk considering the odor he was giving off. She passed him without acknowledging him. The grin on his face turned to a look of shock, as Ryoko grabbed his hand, which hand been making its way towards her rear end. “Frisky, aren’t we?” he asked with a lustful grin. For the second time in two days, she knocked someone out with one punch. Ryoko grinned as she continued on her way. ‘He’s gonna wake up with one big headache.’ She looked down and gave herself the once over before continuing onto the dance floor. ‘Let’s see what Ten-chan thinks of this!’ ________ ‘Ughh,’ Matthias fumed. He had very politely rejected every offer for a drink that Noboyuki gave him. ‘You’d think he’d give up by now.’ Misaki’s enthusiastic chatter with Kiyone and Mihoshi about Tenchi and Aeka getting married was driving him nuts. Aeka deserved so much more than that commoner. She deserved a prince. Well, maybe she’d settle for a knight… ‘How can I think that!’? True, their relationship had grown over the years. He considered her his best friend and hoped she considered him the same. Yet, the way she was swooning over Tenchi… ‘Geese, Tenchi’s a nice guy. What’s my problem with him?’ He sighed as he realized it wasn’t Tenchi that was the problem. Tenchi was an innocent in the situation. Well maybe not an innocent for not taking the princess when she freely offered herself to him. ‘I’d die for a chance to be with her, anyone would.’ He watched as Tenchi and Aeka finished another dance. The Masaki’s back was to him, yet he could see his best friends. Aeka looked so happy, yet it almost looked like empty happiness. ‘It’s just your jealousy…’ “Hey Mat, are you ok?” Sasami’s voice brought him out of his thoughts. She was the same girl she had been years ago… only a little taller. He had also grown close to the princes… of course Sasami had been trying to hook him up with Aeka since day one. His response to her offers was usually to blush and wander off. She was mischievous to say the least. “Yeah Mr. Mat, are you ok?” Achika added. “I’m fine you two,” he replied as he put on a fake smile. He had his own suspicions about Achika’s father yet chose to remain silent. He watched as Ryoko slowly wove her way through the crowd. ‘Wow… when’d she change? That looks really good on her.’ Yet his eyes were drawn back to the purple haired princess. ‘Well like it or not, she will never be mine… I just have to face that.’ He gave out a sigh and retreated deep into himself. ________ ‘This is like a dream,’ Aeka thought happily. She and Tenchi had been dancing for what seemed like an eternity. She never wanted to lose the feeling she had now. She looked up into his eyes, hoping to find him gazing down lovingly at her. He instead let go with his hands and looked down at her in confusion. “Tenchi why did you stop dancing?” Aeka asked as he released her. “What do you mean? The music stopped,” he replied. Aeka felt herself flush a little… the song had finished. ‘Maybe I can get one more dance out of him,’ she thought hopefully. He seemed to have been enjoying himself. “Shame on you princess, what are you two doing out here,” a seductive voice purred from the side of both Tenchi and herself. She watched as Tenchi nearly fell down in shock. As his daughter had predicted, a small stream of blood began to pour down from his nose. “R-r-r-r-r-r-r-r….” Tenchi trailed off into incoherent jabbers. ‘ ‘What did that pirate do now?’ Aeka thought to herself as she turned around to look upon her old rival. ‘Wow…’ she thought to herself. ‘I never thought she could actually look elegant… well more like a lady.’ She began to chuckle a little at the thought. ‘I guess some things aren’t impossible after all.’ “How many dances have you spent with my Tenchi? Hmm?” Ryoko walked over to the princess as she looked down at her husband. He had gotten a Kleenex from one of his pockets and was frantically trying to get rid of all the blood. His features became harder as he looked at the faces of the men on the dance floor. ‘I guess, they can’t help it. She looks…. There aren’t any words to describe it. But if someone tries to hit on her.’ He popped back up onto his feet and began to walk towards the two women. “Listen princess, I let you dance with him, but now it’s my turn. I get as many as you did, and the same privacy so don’t come snooping over here.” She put both hands on her hips to emphasize her point. “Ryoko, I can’t believe you. Why should I let you dance with Lord Tenchi?” “Tenchi please,” Ryoko whined as she draped herself across him. She began to draw circles on his chest with one finger. “It’s only fair that I get to dance with you since Aeka did.” “Miss Ryoko! I-“ “Well Aeka, I think it is fair.” Tenchi said with a warm smile. “Why don’t you go back to the table and then we can talk. It’s been too long since I’ve seen you.” Aeka looked hesitant. “ And Ryoko will promise to behave. Won’t you Ryoko?” “Err yeah,” Ryoko agreed. “I promise I won’t do anything to Tenchi that he doesn’t want done.” ‘That’s a safe way to go,’ she thought. ‘Heck, I’m not lying.’ “Is that good enough for you?” she asked as she brandished her fangs a little. “Since you promised, I think that will suffice,” Aeka replied with a grin. ‘I might as well let her have some fun with Tenchi. Pretty soon he will be mine after all.’ The hope for the future gave her strength as she walked back to the table ________ “Ryo-chan, you didn’t have to get all dressed up,” Tenchi said with a smile as he reached out her hand. “Not that I’m complaining. You look breathtaking.” She gladly accepted it and stepped in closer to the man who had stolen her heart. “I’m glad you like it, and your response,” she said as she pointed to his nose, “was most appreciated.” She sighed as he pulled her into his body. Years of practice had left them both knowing each other’s movements well. They danced without the slightest hint of blunder. Her arms circled around his neck as she smiled up at him. His hands lowered to pull her in closer to him. A soft smile covered both their lips. Words were not needed as they softly moved across the floor. Abruptly the music stopped causing the dancers to look around in confusion. “What the hell?” a man blurted out. “Hey Tenchi,” Noboyuki called out as he gave him a wink. His father finished slipping the disk jockey some money and began to walk back to the table, cutting through the dance floor. “Now you too have fun, I’ll make sure this dance is all to yourself,” he said with a grin. “Thanks dad,” Ryoko said as she grabbed Noboyuki’s arm. “Yeah thanks dad,” Tenchi agreed. “Aww listen, your going to make an old man cry if you keep this up. I know how it hard it must be for you so just relax and enjoy yourselves. You know I love you both,” he stated. “We love you too,” Ryoko agreed as she gave him a peck on the cheek. Noboyuki smiled and continued walking, complaining about an itch in his eye. ‘I’m truly love you both, and I know how important your time is together. Achika, you’d be so proud,’ he thought as he wiped at the tear in his eye. “Have fun you too,” he whispered as he left the floor and sat down at the table again, a tight leash on his emotions. “Come here and sit on your grandpa’s lap, Achika.” Achika hopped of her chair and ran over to her grandfather, jumping into his awaiting arms. “Now let me tell you about a story of a wonderful lady. She was always full of energy, and took care of her father when her mother died. She had the most beautiful hair that she tied back into a ponytail…” ________ “What was that all about?” Ryoko asked with a giggle as she looked at her husband. A male voice coming over the speakers interrupted them. “This is a special song going out to a couple out here. Cherish the love you have… you know who you are,” the voice said. “Don’t tell me he,” Tenchi started. “I think he did,” Ryoko said with a blush. A soft melody wafted through the air as the lights dimmed. “It’s our song.” “This is ‘Love Will Keep Us Alive’ by the Eagles,” the speakers said over the music. Tenchi smiled at Ryoko as they simultaneously walked towards each other. “I’ll have to get him for this,” he said. He pulled her closer than he had before as the singer began to sing. “I love you Ryoko,” he said as she leaned her head on his shoulder. “I love you too Tenchi,” she sighed blissfully. “You’ve given me everything I wanted and more. Love, a family… You saved me. Showed me what I was supposed to do with my life.” “I’d die for you, I’d live for you. And together we’ll brave anything.” “Ryoko…” His head tilted downward as the music began to end. “Yes…” “I Love you,” he finished as he met her in a kiss of love. “Oooooo, I knew it!!!” a nasally voice declared. The romantic atmosphere was totally destroyed away as an odd song began to play. ________ “What the heck is that?” the DJ questioned as he did a double take. He had been ready to play another slow song when one of his CD’s had levitated into the air and taken the place of the Eagles CD on the CD Player. The contraption began to play, throwing him into further confusion. A little crab appeared in the air, stating “Nuh-uh. You can’t touch.” Immediately he recognized the song. “What the Hell????” Where had the crab come form… better yet? How was it flying? “Ahh crap…. It’s She blinded me with Science… That song is just too freaky.” With a sigh, he covered his ears waiting for the song to end. ________ “Washu?” Tenchi and Ryoko exclaimed in unison. Remembering the position they were in, they quickly let go of each other. “Just as I thought, and no use in denying it. You two are in love, and your both Achika’s biological parents.” “Yeah,” Tenchi agreed. “But please don’t tell anyone else, I have to confront Aeka first.” Ryoko nodded, approving his statement. “Fine then,” Washu confirmed. “But… you have to do something for me instead.” “What exactly did you have in mind?” ________ “Wow, Little Washu, your actually a pretty good driver,” Tenchi said from the back. He had bought a car a car when in preparation for Achika, which he had found very useful. ‘Plus, the others can stay a little longer an have some more fun.’ Two breaths that sounded like more like purrs than anything sounded off from both sides of him. Both Achika and Ryoko Masaki were leaning on him, snoring contently as they slept. “Of course Tenchi,” Washu commented. “I am a genius you know.” She shut off the car as they came to a stop in front of the Masaki home. ‘We’re just lucky we didn’t get stopped, and still, I was expecting more than just letting her drive home.’ “Well, you can get back to work like you wanted to,” he stated. “It should be a little while before the others come back home.” “Good night Lord Tenchi. I’m happy for the both of you.” “Thanks Little Washu, goodnight.” ‘Now to take them upstairs,’ he thought. He carefully picked up Achika and teleported upstairs to the room he shared with his wife. He laid her down on the big bed and teleported back to the car. In a flash, he was back with Ryoko Masaki sleeping soundly in his arms. He laid her gently down next to Achika and took a seat next to her. She unconsciously rolled over so that her head was cradled in his lap. With a smile he began to run his hands through her smooth cyan hair. “Goodnight, my Ryoko.” “You might not want to do call her that in public until you tell Aeka,” a voice said from the open doorway. Queen Funaho Jurai slowly walked into the room; her long flowing robes trailing behind her. “You can relax Tenchi, my son had already told me about you and your wife.” She made her way to the opposite side of the bed and sat down on the edge of it, next to Achika. “So this is my great, great granddaughter,” Funaho said as she gazed affectionately at the sleeping girl. “Son… Great, great, Granddaughter?” Tenchi asked in confusion. “What are you talking about?” “I forgot that you didn’t know. The truth is that I am while I am Aeka and Sasami’s half mother, I am your Grandpa Yosho’s true mother.” “What?!” Tenchi shouted. “Tenchi,” Ryoko murmured in her sleep. Tenchi slowly exhaled happy that he hadn’t woken anyone up. “What do you mean?” “The truth is that the emperor of Jurai is allowed to take to wives. He took both Misaki and me. I gave birth to Yosho, while Misaki gave birth to Aeka and Sasami. Yosho was first in line for the throne since he was first born, however, the whole Kagato incident led to him fleeing Jurai.” “So that means I’m you great grandson, Ryoko’s your great granddaughter and Achika’s your great, great granddaughter.” “Yes,” she confirmed. “Though I would appreciate it if you only called me Grandma. I don’t want to sound too old do I?” Tenchi joined in with her laughter. “So this is your family?” she asked Tenchi as she rubbed Achika’s back. “Yup,” Tenchi replied with pride. “You have a beautiful family Tenchi. You’re a very lucky man. But have you though about how to break the news to Aeka?” Tenchi swallowed hard. Well it was time that he faced it. And if there was anyone that could help reach a decision in how to tell the princess, it was Funaho. ‘Grandpa’s got to get that wisdom from somewhere.’ “I don’t want to cause her pain… but I have to.” “Yes you do.” Tenchi sighed at the truth of her words. “Tenchi, listen… Aeka is strong. She can handle this. Tell her you believe in her, and your true feelings for her. Do you even know what they are?” “I love Ryoko with all my heart. I could never betray her like that. It wouldn’t be fair to anyone.” Funaho chuckled a little. “Tenchi, I didn’t say that you had to go off and marry her. But, don’t you at least love her as a friend.” “Of course,” Tenchi interrupted. “How could I not love her as a friend. I love her like a sister… which… I guess she kind of is. Well she’s my great Aunt. That’s pretty weird now that I think about it.” Funaho couldn’t help but chuckle a little at the odd look on Tenchi’s face. “Tenchi, it might be a little difficult for you to imagine but interfamily marriages aren’t uncommon on Jurai. The DNA of Jurain's as well as the advanced technology prevents any birth defects in offspring.” “But you should tell her what you just told me. Tell her you love her as a friend and as sister. The sooner you confront her, the less pain she’ll have and the faster she can heal.” “Well I’m going to turn in now,” Funaho said as she stood up. “Good night grandson.” “Goodnight Grandma Funaho, and thank you.” ________ “Lord Tenchi?” Aeka asked. She had woken up after a not so wonderful evening with a feeling of dread. Tenchi had asked to speak to her after breakfast at the shrine stairs so here she found herself waiting for Tenchi to come to her. Her heart beat faster every second, so fast that she thought it might beat it’s way out of her chest. “Where is he I wonder?” ‘And does this mean what I think it does? I can’t believe I didn’t see it before… all the signs. But Mihoshi had drunken a lot… I’m sure Lord Tenchi wouldn’t.’ “Hey Aeka,” Tenchi called out as he descended the steps. He must have gone to the shrine early that morning to do some chores before he met with her. She ran up to meet him, fear clutching at her soul. “Listen Aeka,” he started. “No Lord Tenchi,” she interrupted. “I feel this may be easier on both of us if I speak first. I think I have disillusioned myself Tenchi.” “Indigo has told me himself that he is not the father of Achika… I cornered him last night.” She hoped her lie might lead to some truth. Still, Tenchi’s resemblance in Achika was unmistakable. ‘I can’t believe I thought that the father of Ryoko’s child was that pirate.’ “ I’ve seen so many clues yet I feel so confused,” she said, all of her cheer turning into sadness. “I look at Achika and sadly, I see you as well as Ryoko. I saw you dancing last night. I saw the … kiss.” Tears began to stream down her face. “Tenchi, I need an answer. No lies, no games. I want the truth. I can’t hide it from myself any longer. My heart tells me something and I must be true to it.” “Tenchi, Is Achika your child?” Tenchi took a ragged breath. It had all come down to this. No matter how much he had talked to Ryoko that morning or how much he had prayed, he still didn’t feel ready. “Yes, she is,” he said, barely audible. It only took this one response to serve as the catalyst. Tears began to flow down her cheeks. “Did she seduce you while I was away? Tenchi how did it happen? Please tell me? Do you love her?” “No Aeka… I love her.” Aeka collapsed to the ground. Pain was written all over her face. “How could you? Tenchi, I love you so much more than she ever could.” “Do you truly think that?” Tenchi had his eyes shut tightly. He had formed his hands into fists, squeezing so hard that his knuckles turned white, angry with himself for forcing this pain on her. He hated himself for what he was doing to her. “What?” Aeka asked in shock. “Do you remember when I saved you from Kagato? The only reason I got to Jurai is because Ryoko took me.” He took a deep breath before continuing. “She had been hurt badly when you were abducted. Do you remember when we found her lying on the ground?” “Yes,” Aeka confirmed. She felt nothing but numbness. Her heart had been broken… she felt like nothing. Insignificant… that’s what she felt. Tenchi didn’t love her; she felt her life was over. “She was dieing. Her healing abilities wouldn’t kick in because of Kagato’s dark Jurai power. But she took me to save you, her rival, because she loved me. I admit it; I pretty much rejected her when I was going after you. But she wanted me to be happy.” “No matter if it was with her or with you. She wanted me to be happy. Because she loves me.” Aeka breathed out in shock. “Aeka, I married here and have felt her love everyday. I know that she loves me and I love her.” An awkward silence took over. Aeka’s weeping was the only sound breaking the lack of noise. “Tenchi… leave me alone.” “Aeka… I do love you. I love you as a best friend, and as a sister. I’m so sorry.” She looked at him through bleary eyes to see his face contort into a face ridden with pain. She was causing him pain too. That was the last thing she had wanted. Tenchi sprinted down the stairs, complying with her wishes. His soul ached and he knew he had only one person to go to. Without a second thought he teleported into his bedroom. Ryoko was waiting there on the bed, nervously biting her fingernails. “Oh Ryoko,” Tenchi cried as he lay down on the bed next to her. She uttered soft words to him, as she rubbed his back. Finally, emotionally strained, he fell asleep. ________ Aeka hugged herself as she continued to cry. A set of feet running up the steps alerted her of someone’s approach. Matthias vaulted up the steps, landing a short distance from her as his red hair flowed behind him. “Aeka,” he called out. “Matthias get away,” she said as she avoided his reach. To distraught to move carefully or think rationally, she slipped on the steps. “Aeka,” Matthias cried out as he jumped down and stopped her. “Matthias,” she said with a sigh. She cringed though she tried to hide her pain. ‘What do I do? If I move her, I could injure her.’ “Aeka, stay here, I’ll be right back.” Aeka watched as Matthias sprinted down the steps. ‘Tenchi…’ ‘Tenchi loves Ryoko. They married… they had a child. He’s hers now in every way. Not just by love but by law. They are one.’ “Where does that leave me?” “I don’t know, but if you keep on squirming like that, you’re liable to hurt yourself really bad. I saw Matthias running like a bat out of hell for the house, he must be getting Washu. So Where does what leave you?” Indigo walked down the stairs till he was next to Aeka. He took of his coat and placed it underneath he head. “Nothing,” Aeka replied. “You let me believe Achika was your daughter? How could do that.” “I didn’t say anything if you remember,” the red headed pirate. “You chose to believe what you did. And can you really blame Tenchi and Ryoko?” “Whether you want to believe it or not, they tried not to hurt you.” “She moved in on him while I wasn’t there. Just because she’s been here for longer…” ‘It’s not fair. If I had managed to run away…’ “Aeka, I know that it may seem unfair to you but they do love each other. In my life traveling the stars, I have never seen two people more in love. And Noboyuki told me that Tenchi confessed his love to her the night she came back.” “What?” ‘What can I do… Tenchi is lost to me?’ “Tenchi loves that damn space pirate… where does that leave me? I loved him, I truly loved him!” “But then don’t you want him to be happy? Tenchi loves you, as does Ryoko and Achika. Actually I overheard them talking about making you Achika’s godmother. You hurting hurts them. And I think that your feelings toward him might not be what you have convinced yourself of.” “Aeka,” Matthias called, as he fell headfirst ground onto the ground. Washu really had to work on her portal system. Of course… she landed lightly on her feet. She summoned her astral computer and began to type feverishly. “Let’s see… nothing to serious. An hour in healing in my lab and you’ll be better than ever. “ Everything seemed a blur as a blue shield appeared around her. ‘ Godmother? They all love me? But Ryoko… is my friend… and Tenchi… is my friend as well. I have friends and they’ll be with me. I’ll be the best Godmother to Achika. It hurts but I’ve changed. I can deal with it.’ ‘I have Mommy and Mother Funaho. I can do this. I can’t let them go on in pain because I refuse to accept the truth. I have made my choice… and I choose to live on. To change…’ Tears continued to flow freely down her face. They were not the first tears she had cried over Tenchi, nor would they be the last. It still hurt and it would. More tears would come… But she would live on. Her heart and soul needed to heal; yet life would go on. “Just as Ryoko and Tenchi’s hearts sing for another, mine will one day. One day I will truly find the song of my heart,” she whispered to herself. “And it will sing one other in unison till the day I die.” Matthias smiled down at her, hearing her whispered words. “Yes you will,” he agreed. For the first time that day, just as she was flung through dimensions to tend to her injuries, Aeka Jurai… smiled. _____________________________________________________________________________ I guess I might as well make this author section… since it really seems practical. Anyways… I bet you all have been wondering… Where I’ve been. Sorry about the long wait but I’ve been busy with Real life, writers block and all that jazz. As always, C&C to Ledzepfan111@ hotmail.com. I might be making a Mailing list so any interests, Email me. Now I’d like to say thanks to some people that have helped me with the my Crown all along: Malena, SilverGTI, RT, Kemanorel7, LilA, and Alighthawk. (If I forgot anyone… I’m sorry, tell me and I’ll be sure to include you). Thanks a lot guys/girls. And some of them have some Fics so if you readers are ever in the interested in a new fic to read… Thanks for Reading!