[Disclaimer: Tenchi Muyo! and its characters are the property of AIC and Pioneer LDC, Inc. and was created by Masaki Kajishima. This story comes entirely from my imagination, and is strictly intended to be apocryphal--so please don't sue me.] 1 EXT. MASAKI HOUSE Open on trees in bloom, suggesting springtime. Pan around to house. 2 INT. AYEKA'S BEDROOM Ayeka is sitting next to a window, holding a pen and a small book, apparently lost in thought. She turns and looks out the window and sighs. She then writes. CU. AYEKA She slowly stops writing and then looks up suddenly. She closes the book quickly and puts it into a pocket. AYEKA: (softly) Is someone there? BEDROOM She stands and straightens her dress. AYEKA: (to herself) That's strange, I thought I was being watched. She reaches for her pocket again, stops, then looks around. AYEKA: Oh! It's just you, Lord Tenchi. Tenchi enters the room and smiles. TENCHI: Oh, there you are! Uh... CU. AYEKA AYEKA: Really, Tenchi. No need to be shy. Just say whatever is on your mind. CU. TENCHI TENCHI: (embarrassed) It's just that, I thought you were doing something private, and I, uh... BEDROOM AYEKA: I was doing nothing, Tenchi. TENCHI: (obviously relieved) Oh, that's good. I was just about to say that I can't make it to the show tomorrow. I'm really sorry. I know how much you were looking forward to it, but I need to stay late at school tomorrow. She slumps a bit, but keeps her facial composure steady. AYEKA: (strained) It's all right Lord Tenchi, I was so looking forward to it, but there'll be other shows. It was just a comedy, anyway. CU. TENCHI He smiles and takes a step backward. TENCHI: You were writing in a journal? BEDROOM AYEKA: (a bit shocked) What? TENCHI: A journal, you know... A diary? It's nothing, really. I was just wondering... AYEKA: (looking down) Oh, yes. Something like that. TENCHI: (wistfully) I'll just go help with breakfast... Tenchi exits. AYEKA: (VO) My, how strange! Lord Tenchi was the one who suggested this show. Hmm... I just know this has something to do with that devil-woman... 3 EXT. NEAR STRANGE CAVE A field with trees in the background. Ryoko teleports toward the camera, and then stops, looking around. She is holding a small jug of sake. She is about to take a drink, then stops and returns it over her shoulder again. CU. RYOKO She looks down at the camera. She shakes her head slightly and looks up, again. NEAR CAVE The strange cave, nearly obscured by surrounding foliage. Ryoko shoots into the opening and disappears inside. 4 INT. KITCHEN Sasami is standing in front of the stove, stirring in a pan. Ryo-Ohki is sitting on her head. Tenchi is scratching his head. CU. SASAMI She takes a bit from the pan and gives another to Ryo-Ohki. Ryo-Ohki meows, and Sasami smiles. KITCHEN Tenchi approaches casually. TENCHI: Can I help? CU. SASAMI She turns around and smiles. SASAMI: Of course! 5 EXT. NEAR CAVE Ryoko exits the cave and then turns and looks slowly around. She looks back at the cave. CU. RYOKO She turns her head thoughtfully, while her eyes remain on the cave. She turns around again suddenly and vanishes. 6 INT. AYEKA'S BEDROOM (POV) Camera hovers directly above Ayeka as she sits. In front of her, she manipulates something underneath a small roof. The camera sways suggestively and zooms up a bit. AYEKA: (casually) Lord Tenchi, you know shouldn't study so hard. It's such a nice day. CU. RYOKO Just poking her head through the ceiling, a confused expression on her face. She seems about to say something. BEDROOM Just about where Ayeka is sitting, there is a large chest where there are stuffed animals and holographic projections and small globes. There are tiny drawers containing crystals and a few shelves with what appear to be necklaces, headbands and bracelets. The chest is opened, and inside the lid, there is an ornate mirror, framed with crystals and symbols and lit by a slight golden aura. At her feet, there is a glass merry-go-round and a tiny flute. Just beside her is a small hairbrush and several ribbons and tiny clasps. Just in front of her is a dollhouse. 'Tenchi' is in Ayeka's left hand--the figure of a handsome warrior. The figure is doggedly ignoring another figure just behind it, being manipulated in Ayeka's right. This figure is a young girl with long hair. Aside from the dark hair, it looks a bit more like Sasami than Ayeka, but it is clearly a princess from the outfit. CU. RYOKO She emerges a bit, very slowly. The puzzled expression deepening. RYOKO: (VO) What? I've never seen all this! BEDROOM (POV) Camera hovering again, just where Ryoko's head would be, looking straight down. AYEKA: (deep) I'm sorry, Ayeka, but you know I've got exams tomorrow. If I can't recite the seven books of the Juraiad, I'll fail for sure! BEDROOM Ryoko flinches in recognition. RYOKO: (VO) Oh! This is repulsive! I think I'm going to be sick! Wow! If only Tenchi could see this! Ryoko continues to descend behind Ayeka very slowly. CU. AYEKA Slowly focus-out to Ryoko, who has her arms crossed, and looks as if she is about to deliver a scathing insult. AYEKA: (as herself again) But we belong together, my love! We are fated to be together. We should spend every waking moment with each other. You know in your heart I'm right. CU. DOLLS They twist and turn to each other gracefully. AYEKA: (OC, deep) Oh Ayeka! I know, but I really must not neglect my duty. (OC, as herself) But Tenchi, I have been neglecting my duties to be with you for so long! You owe it to me to at least acknowledge our destiny together! CU. RYOKO Her face twists angrily. CU. DOLLS Another doll--a rather ugly one--appears in Ayeka's left hand. AYEKA: (OC, harsh) Hey, Princess! What do you think you're doing? CU. RYOKO Her mouth hanging open. BEDROOM Ayeka is totally enthralled in her own little drama. Ryoko is somewhat enthralled by the little plot twist. AYEKA: (herself again) What does it look like? Tenchi and I were about to explore our love for each other! She takes the warrior doll and wiggles him somewhat uncertainly. CU. AYEKA She's just about to add something... RYOKO: (OC, snide) Love? What does a princess know about love? Ayeka's eyes widen, and she lets out a little gasp. She reflexively clutches the princess doll to her chest. Her face turns beet red. BEDROOM Ryoko cackles villianously. Ayeka turns and stands, trembling in anger and embarrassment. 7 INT. MAIN HALL Tenchi sets out some dishes on the table. Sasami enters, holding a rather large basket. A loud thud booms through the house and a bright flash can be seen through the window. CU. SASAMI Her head drops and she sighs. CU. TENCHI Looks upward, apparently worried. TENCHI: Not again. 8 TITLE: "KNEE-DEEP IN KARMA" 9 EXT. THEATER A large outdoor theater. It is night and mostly dark. The theater is half-filled, and there is some type of musical being performed. Several men dressed as samurai are brandishing their weapons musically as a scary snake-like creature approaches from the other side of the stage. CU. LEAD VOCAL Singing tragically of his shame of cowardice and how he must suicidally attack the monster to redeem himself. SEATS Mihoshi cringes, next to Tenchi. Ryoko and Sasami sit on his other side. Mihoshi reflexively grabs his arm. MIHOSHI: (lugubriously) Oh no! TENCHI: (in obvious pain) Hey! That hurts! Ryoko is asleep, and Sasami is wide-eyed with wonder. CU. TENCHI Looks briefly annoyed and then sighs. TENCHI: (VO) I know it looks like nothing, but even the silliest things can be very serious--like whenever Ayeka and Ryoko are fighting. It seems silly now, but I always felt bad about it. It probably shouldn't have bothered me so much, but I was just a stupid kid. 10 EXT. OUTSIDE THEATER Soon after the musical has ended. Tenchi and Sasami are amidst a small throng, on the way out. People are walking out along sidewalks, some are biking along. Most are just talking in various small groups. Sasami stops and picks up Ryo-Ohki. Tenchi stops and waits and then takes her hand. TENCHI: Come on Sasami, if we don't get back home soon, your sister will get worried. A peculiar tall man--Suzuki--nearly trips over Tenchi at the walkway. TENCHI: Oh! Excuse me. (he looks up) Mr. Suzuki! 11 EXT. WALKWAY Suzuki adjusts his glasses and looks down, as a few people walk past. SUZUKI: Oh, excuse me young man. Oh! Mr. Masaki, how nice to see you! CU. TENCHI TENCHI: (gesturing) Mr. Suzuki, this is Sasami. She is the sister of my friend I was telling you about today. Sasami, this is Mr. Suzuki. He is my music history teacher. WALKWAY A few people walk past. SASAMI: Hello. SUZUKI: How nice. To meet you, that is. (he clears his throat) Uh, Mr. Masaki... TENCHI: (nervous) Yes, Mr. Suzuki? SUZUKI: I'm a little confused. I thought you said you and your friend Ayeka were going to come to this show. This is her sister? TENCHI: (more nervous) Uh... yes. I mean, yes sir! SUZUKI: Well... I've frankly never heard of this girl. You are being completely honest with me? TENCHI: (sweating) Well... CU. SASAMI Ryo-Ohki is sitting on Sasami's head. SASAMI: Mr. Suzuki, are you asking if you can come eat with us? We would love to have the company! CU. TENCHI Still sweating, chuckling a little. He almost seems about to say something. WALKWAY People are still coming out of the theater. SUZUKI: (very pleased) How nice! But no, I have to be getting home, myself. It's very late, you know. Tenchi! TENCHI: Yes? SUZUKI: I'll see you tomorrow, young man! TENCHI: Yes sir! Tenchi sighs in relief as Sasami waves. SASAMI: Goodbye! Ryoko and Mihoshi approach. MIHOSHI: It's over already? RYOKO: (annoyed) Okay, I found her. You see? Happy now? CU. RYOKO She escorts Mihoshi to Tenchi and slumps a bit. TENCHI: (OC) Sorry, Ryoko. I was just worried. RYOKO: (looking up) Can we go now? WALKWAY Several groups of people walk past. Ryoko suddenly grabs Tenchi around the waist and flies off with him. No one seems to notice except Sasami. SASAMI: (waving) See you when we get home! MIHOSHI: (looking up) Uh... Hey! Where did they go? SASAMI: Ryoko is going on ahead. MIHOSHI: Oh. What? 12 EXT. NEARBY HILL Ryoko and Tenchi land. TENCHI: (a little gruff) You know I hate it when you do that. RYOKO: (chuckling) When I do what? TENCHI: Never mind. 13 EXT. SKY SHOT (POV) Tilt upwards from where Tenchi sits on the ground, looking upward. 14 EXT. NEARBY HILL Ryoko's hand on Tenchi's shoulder. Ryoko sits next to him. TENCHI: I'm worried, Ryoko. One of these days, it'll be all over town about you and Ayeka. You don't exactly try to keep quiet when you're fighting. One of these days the police are going to get involved, you know. RYOKO: I'm not afraid of any police. Galactic or otherwise. TENCHI: (nearly upset) That's just my point! (sighing) One of these days, this whole thing will become a public spectacle. RYOKO: (thoughtful) Huh? You think so? CU. TENCHI He stands again and brushes himself off. TENCHI: Let's just leave it at that. Could you two just make amends or something? I'm sick of it. CU. RYOKO She looks down and then heaves a huge sigh. RYOKO: Oh, all right. But I'm only doing this for you. HILL Tenchi looking around at Ryoko. TENCHI: You promise? RYOKO: Okay, okay! I promise! TENCHI: Thank you. Let's go home now. 15 EXT. CROSSROADS Sasami and Mihoshi standing at a crossroads. Ryo-Ohki follows. Mihoshi is looking uncertainly one way and the other. SASAMI: (pointing) I think we go this way. MIHOSHI: Are you sure? Sasami drags Mihoshi along by the hand. MIHOSHI: I really don't know about this. Maybe we should wait and ask for directions. 16 INT. MAIN HALL Ayeka and Noboyuki are having a meal. Yosho enters with a bottle of sake. YOSHO: (surprised) Ayeka, weren't you going to see _The Demon of Rashoman_ with the others? AYEKA: (somewhat stiffly) As I explained to Lord Tenchi, sir, I can no longer countenance the presence of that devil-woman. If he wishes to speak to me, he can do so, but not in her company. CU. YOSHO Merely nods and sits at the table. YOSHO: Ah, I see. MAIN HALL Tenchi and Ryoko enter the room. AYEKA: Please excuse me. Yosho stands. Ayeka gets up and leaves the room. CU. TENCHI TENCHI: She's still mad? CU. YOSHO Still holding the sake, managing a shrug with his hands. YOSHO: I think so. He sets the bottle on the table and sits again. 17 EXT. PATH Sasami and Mihoshi are walking along a path. Ryo-Ohki is sitting on Sasami's shoulder. MIHOSHI: That was a really good show. Don't you think so? I just wish I'd seen the ending. SASAMI: I think we're nearly home... MIHOSHI: Wasn't Ayeka going to come with us? Is she all right? SASAMI: Oh. Well, she's okay. She just had another big fight with Ryoko. MIHOSHI: What did they fight about? SASAMI: I'm not sure. I think Ryoko did something to her hair last night. MIHOSHI: Oh. SASAMI: All I know for sure is Ayeka got really mad at Tenchi and said she never wanted to see him again. Then she started crying, and I think Tenchi got really mad too. MIHOSHI: Oh. SASAMI: Tenchi didn't say anything, though. He just looked kinda sad. 18 EXT. NEAR GATE Sasami and Mihoshi stop, just outside the gate. Ryo-Ohki jumps down from Sasami's shoulder and continues on. SASAMI: (smiling) I think you like Tenchi, huh? MIHOSHI: Huh? SASAMI: Come on, admit it. I saw the way you kept looking at him. CU. MIHOSHI Her eyes widen and she starts giggling. CU. SASAMI She starts to giggle, as well. SASAMI: It's okay, I think it's sweet. 19 EXT. MASAKI HOUSE The house framed nicely in the morning sunlight. 20 INT. MAIN HALL Sasami, Tenchi, and Mihoshi are just starting to eat. Noboyuki enters, looking a little flustered. Ryoko floats in, looking a little grim. The scene is a little tense. Mihoshi seems oblivious, but the others are looking back and forth between each other in anticipation. Washu strides in, as confident as ever. Everyone else sighs. CU. WASHU She frowns and stops. WASHU: What? MAIN HALL Ayeka enters. She stops and looks at Ryoko as if through a microscope, then turns and leaves again. Tenchi is staring at Ryoko. CU. TENCHI He pleads silently with his eyes. CU. RYOKO Rolls her eyes and slowly leaves the table. MAIN HALL Ryoko leaves and Yosho enters, looking as calm as ever. 21 EXT. ROOF Ryoko sits on the roof, staring into the distance. She frowns and disappears. 22 INT. AYEKA'S BEDROOM Ayeka is standing at the window in her room. She hears a soft knock at the door. Ayeka slides the door open. AYEKA: From the way everyone else is skulking about, I can only imagine that you have decided to resolve this situation between us. I would invite you in, but you know I cannot. RYOKO: Yeah, yeah. Listen Princess, I'm only here to tell you I won't fight with you anymore. AYEKA: Oh, so you finally admit that you are inferior. I could have saved you the trouble. All you needed was to fight me fairly. CU. RYOKO Barely restraining herself, then sighing. RYOKO: Okay, fine. You win. CU. AYEKA She almost smiles and then frowns deeply. AYEKA: So why are you here? BEDROOM RYOKO: (contralto) To admit it, okay? You're better than me. Are you happy now? Ryoko frowns and narrows her eyes. AYEKA: I accept your admission. All the more so, because I know how difficult it must be for you to admit. CU. AYEKA She smirks in a rather devilish way. AYEKA: (softly) I also happen to know that this is a rather transparent attempt on your part to win the affection of Lord Tenchi. It won't work, you know. He knows which of us is the more worthy. BEDROOM RYOKO: (outraged) Why, you!-- AYEKA: (chuckling) It's tragic, really. No matter what you do, you cannot change destiny. It's simply a matter of time. 23 EXT. DISTANT HILLSIDE Several explosions bursting through the trees. An angry scream drifts softly between the explosions. 24 INT. MAIN HALL Yosho and Washu are still picking at their breakfast. YOSHO: Yes, she seems much stronger. I think her attitude is much improved, as well... WASHU: But you think it's just a facade. YOSHO: (pondering) No... But sometimes, strength does not make one strong... 25 EXT. MASAKI HOUSE The house framed nicely in nightime. 26 EXT. PATH Tenchi ascending a long path through the trees. He's dressed in a student uniform and carrying a briefcase. He pauses and looks aside. CU. TENCHI Tenchi leans into the shot, looking downward. PATH Ryo-Ohki bursts through a bush, and nearly knocks Tenchi over going by. Sasami follows, waving, as she goes running by. SASAMI: Hello Tenchi! CU. TENCHI He recovers his balance and looks up, apparently relieved. Continue on his face. Truck camera backward with a zoom in, to emphasize a sense of sudden danger. Tenchi begins to frown in dawning apprehension. PATH Nothing more than a bright flash, apparently consuming Tenchi and then both suddenly disappear. 27 INT. FORTRESS ENTRANCE HALLWAY Close-up on a hideous frozen expression, Tenchi's face marked with scars and bits of blood. His hair swirls wildly and a maniacal grin is spread across his face. HALLWAY Tenchi reels backward from the image of his own face. His horrified expression turns into puzzled wonder. Ryoko appears behind him. RYOKO: (musing) What do you think, Tenchi? Too violent? Not enough? Like it? CU. TENCHI His expression softens, taking in the full effect of the image. He then looks around. TENCHI: (matter-of-factly) It really captures the attention. What is this place, Ryoko? 28 INT. HALLWAY Low wide-angle lens shot of the hallway curving off into the distance. The hallway is lit by torches that flicker with hazy-blue light. Several pedestals line the hallway, each one has a statuette, a glowing red orb of some kind, or some kind of interesting shape. At several places along the walls, images appear. Some are of Ryo-Ohki or Ayeka or the others, but most depict Tenchi in one form or another. At one end of the hall is a huge portcullis, behind which are stairs leading up two sides of the hallway beyond to two towers. Behind the towers is a huge, shiny gate with an imposing-looking mechanism at the center. Pan around, and at the other end of the hall is seen a dimly-lit chamber. From here, you can just about make out some chairs at the end of a large table. Everything else is obscured in shadow. RYOKO: (sepulcher tones) This is my new shrine. These are my works of art. CU. TENCHI Tenchi looks back toward his own image again. CU. IMAGE Zoom in slowly on the eyes. HALLWAY Tenchi appears a little taken-aback. RYOKO: (whispering) Isn't it strange how you always linger on the eyes? Tenchi looks down in disgust. Ryoko puts her arm around him. TENCHI: You're very strange, Ryoko. RYOKO: You're my inspiration. Tenchi looks up again and thoughtfully stares at the image of himself. After a few beats, Ryoko rolls her eyes, looks at her wrist and starts tapping her feet. RYOKO: (clearly impatient) Okay, okay! You've seen enough of this! Come and see the rest. 29 INT. HALLWAY Quick montage of Ryoko showing Tenchi her works. Images, sculpture and varied curious jewels etched with runes. All of them seem to evoke a sense of cynical longing, framed with fearful contexts. 30 INT. HALLWAY Ryoko drags Tenchi by the hand to another image. She looks especially eager. RYOKO: This is the latest piece. You've just got to see this... CU. IMAGE Zoom out from behind the two out of an especially detailed image. A starry sky over a field framed by silhouettes of the heads of Tenchi and Ryoko. Faint clouds hover off in the distance, drawing the eyes toward a small constellation of stars that suggest the figures of two people sitting side-by-side. RYOKO: (almost euphoric) I call it 'Dream of Immortality.' (clears her throat) Or 'Lovers Forever'... Whichever one you prefer. CU. TENCHI TENCHI: (clearly impressed) Wow. I had no idea you had such a talent for art. CU. RYOKO She's straining to keep from grinning. TENCHI: (OC) It's so real-looking. So peaceful and beautiful. I feel like I'm about to fall into that sky. AYEKA: (OC) Yes, I have to admit, it's very remarkable. Ryoko's shocked expression is almost audible. HALLWAY Tenchi and Ayeka continue to stare at the image. Ryoko is trembling with anger. AYEKA: (continuing smoothly) Notice how she combines the existential so seemlessly with the homage to superstition? I wouldn't have thought it possible from one who is so... barbaric and uncultured. TENCHI: (uncertainly) I'm not sure I see what you mean... RYOKO: What are you doing here!? AYEKA: At the moment, admiring your handiworks. I would have thought you'd be flattered. CU. RYOKO She brandishes her fist. RYOKO: How did you even find this place!? Who told you you could come here? HALLWAY Ryoko is glaring at Ayeka. Ayeka turns to Ryoko. AYEKA: (smug) I don't need a map to know that monsters always have their lairs. It was obvious that you needed one somewhat nearby, and it is. It was simple logic that led me here. Now, you need not be so angry. I rather think you've done a fine job. CU. AYEKA Looks thoughtfully around. AYEKA: Dreadful lighting, though. I would have thought you would want dark red and cyan to fit your personality better. HALLWAY Ryoko gently pushes Tenchi out of the way. RYOKO: (bitterly) All right, Princess. You want a fight. You've got one. Let's go. AYEKA: Hmm? And just this morning you said you would not. Why am I not surprised? CU. TENCHI TENCHI: (worried) Ryoko, you promised you wouldn't fight. CU. RYOKO She frowns for a moment and then abruptly smirks. RYOKO: (very smoothly) I never did any such thing. HALLWAY TENCHI: But-- AYEKA: (triumphant) Hah! And you break your oaths, too! RYOKO: Enough talking! It's time to fight! TENCHI: Hey! 31 INT. LARGE CHAMBER (elaborate establishing shot) Chamber mentioned previously. Compose on Ayeka and Ryoko, facing each other. Each has a sword and a long dagger. Pan the camera slowly across the room. They are standing within a large circle, just slightly raised from the floor. Beyond the circle are several rows of ornate benches, each one framed with floor lamps on long, thin posts. The lamps glow a severe white light. Off to the side is a long table. The table has three straight chairs at each narrow end. The long ends have three reclined benches, each. The table is lit by an elaborate chandelier. Between the table and the circle are several smaller tables. Most are bare, but a few have books, toys, various tools and curious-looking devices. On one side of each table is a small crystal, glowing softly with a bluish light. On the other side of each table is a small banner, depicting some elaborate symbols (unreadable, as they are furled). Along the walls are ornate doors, each one with a huge, primitive handle, hinged from the opposite side. Between several of the doors are cases. Each case is made of opaque crystal all around except for in front. The fronts are glass, with small catches, which apparently allow the fronts to slide open. Within the cases are treasures of every imaginable type. There are jewels, gems, necklaces, artifacts, idols, scepters, weapons, fancy shoes and gloves, bottles of liquids, crowns and various glowing orbs of all different colors. 32 INT. LARGE CHAMBER (ring) CU. RYOKO She flexes and hops, slightly. CU. AYEKA She pulls on gloves, a sneer of disdain on her lips as she considers Ryoko. CHAMBER (near hallway) Tenchi enters and looks over toward the circle. He looks all around the room, rather wide-eyed. CHAMBER (ring) Ryoko goes into a basic martial crouch, and rocks back and forth. AYEKA: (patronizing) The stakes are pretty high. You're certain you want to duel in a fair fight with me? RYOKO: (snickering) I'm game if you are, Princess. Anyway, I have the odds. Are you trying to back out of your deal? CU. TENCHI He approaches, looking a little perplexed. CHAMBER (ring) AYEKA: (feigned moroseness) I suppose you'll want a few warm-up hits. It matters little to me. RYOKO: (viciously) Stop stalling! Let's go! CU. RYOKO She yells and makes a bold feint. 33 INT. LARGE CHAMBER (Tenchi) Yosho has appeared, as if out of thin air. He puts his hand on Tenchi's shoulder very gently. Tenchi flinches slightly. CU. YOSHO Speaking in Tenchi's ear. YOSHO: (very softly) Tenchi, I want you to look at their feet. CHAMBER (Tenchi and Yosho) TENCHI: Huh? YOSHO: Yes... Notice how they seem to glide along almost effortlessly. CU. AYEKA A snarl of victory crosses her face. AYEKA: A hit! CHAMBER (ring) Ryoko reels slightly in outrage. RYOKO: No way! Not even close! 34 INT. LARGE CHAMBER (Tenchi and Yosho) Yosho looks around and raises an eyebrow, suggestively. WASHU: (OC) That was a hit, all right. Pan over to Washu and Sasami. WASHU: Score one-nothing for the princess! SASAMI: (ecstatic) Yea! Let's go, Ayeka! CU. RYOKO Still recovering. RYOKO: Hey! No fair! Where's my cheering section? CHAMBER (Washu and Sasami) WASHU: Don't worry, Ryoko! I'm getting it all on video. She turns to Sasami and winks. WASHU: I'm asking for a percentage of the pay-per-view royalties. CU. TENCHI Dizzy with confusion. CU. YOSHO YOSHO: (very matter-of-factly) Remember what I keep telling you? It's all in your feet. CU. AYEKA They go back and forth, moving very quickly. Ayeka advances and forces Ryoko right to the edge of the circle. AYEKA: I have you, demon! CU. RYOKO She smirks and narrows her eyes. RYOKO: (softly) I won't be defeated this easily. CU. TENCHI His eyes widen as Ryoko yells another challenge (OC). TENCHI: (clearly impressed) Hey, wow! (he turns) Did you see that, Grandpa? CU. YOSHO YOSHO: (a little annoyed) Yes, Tenchi, but pay attention. CU. WASHU WASHU: (thoughtful) That Ayeka fights rather rhythmically, don't you think? 35 INT. LARGE CHAMBER (Tenchi and Yosho) Yosho ponders as Tenchi's eyes move with the action. YOSHO: Hmm... Yes. It is the technique the way they taught it in those days. It's a dance, really. TENCHI: A fighter's dance? How is that possible? YOSHO: That was before they began to stress balance, Tenchi. It is a very old technique. This is the way most of us were taught to fight. CHAMBER (fight shot) Above and somewhat wide-angle of the circle. Ayeka and Ryoko are battling fiercely. Each feinting, weaving, dodging and ducking just in time to miss a hit, until one particularly agile motion gives Ayeka a very clear hit on Ryoko. CU. SASAMI She immediately cheers. WASHU: (OC) Two-nothing for the princess. CHAMBER (Washu and Sasami) WASHU: Watch out, Ryoko. You're two away from getting beat. CU. RYOKO Collecting herself--she takes both weapons in her right hand and blows softly into her left. She then returns her dagger to her left. RYOKO: Don't worry. I'll win. No one has ever beaten me in a fair fight. CU. AYEKA A ready quip on her lips. AYEKA: No. I suspect you've never been in a fair fight. CU. RYOKO RYOKO: Very funny, Princess--but it won't change the outcome. She yells and charges forward. 36 INT. LARGE CHAMBER (Tenchi and Yosho) YOSHO: Ryoko has marvellous delivery. You have to admit that. I've never seen a swing delivered so cleanly. CU. WASHU WASHU: She has special eyes. She sees things a lot faster than most people. I think she's just toying with Ayeka. CHAMBER (Tenchi and Yosho) YOSHO: Hmm... Perhaps. It never pays to underestimate the Jurai technique, though. (somewhat proudly) Ayeka fights with a brilliant mastery of it. Tenchi almost immediately flinches with disgust. TENCHI: Hey, what was that? CHAMBER (ring) Ryoko has caught Ayeka in mid-swing. Ryoko looks a little confused for a moment, and then snarls. SASAMI: (OC) Oh no! Hey, Ayeka? RYOKO: (grim) How dare you? A pity point? CU. WASHU Rolls her eyes and shrugs. WASHU: (contralto) Whoa! Didn't see that coming. Two-one for the princess. CHAMBER (ring) Ayeka's gloved hand is covering a smirk. RYOKO: You'll regret that. AYEKA: (a little unsure) Oh, certainly. 37 INT. LARGE CHAMBER (Tenchi and Yosho) YOSHO: (sadly) Tenchi, if I ever catch you like that, I'll give you a good bump to remind you. TENCHI: (absently rubbing his head) I can't believe she left her guard wide-open like that. YOSHO: Very foolish. CU. RYOKO Her snarl of anger slowly turns to a grimace. CHAMBER (spectator shot) Slow pan between medium facing-shot of Tenchi and Yosho to Washu and Sasami. All look serious and thoughtful except for Sasami who clearly looks worried. CHAMBER (fight shot) Ryoko advances on Ayeka with several bold moves. Ayeka pivots and Ryoko advances again. CU. AYEKA Her eyes narrow and she scowls. CHAMBER (fight shot) Ayeka and Ryoko go back-and-forth again, neither one advancing much. Ryoko then opens her guard, just slightly, as if daring Ayeka to go for a lunge. Ayeka stays in her rhythm, and Ryoko continues to advance. 38 INT. LARGE CHAMBER (Tenchi and Yosho) TENCHI: (softly) What is she doing? YOSHO: Just watch, Tenchi. CU. AYEKA Her scowl has deepened, and she grits her teeth. CU. WASHU She sighs and looks down. CHAMBER (ring) Slow-motion shot of Ayeka angrily lunging for Ryoko's slightly open guard. CU. AYEKA'S LUNGE Very narrowly missing. CU. TENCHI TENCHI: (disapproval) I see. CU. YOSHO YOSHO: Yes, Tenchi. Never lose your temper. Now you see why I train you all the time. 39 INT. LARGE CHAMBER (Washu and Sasami) WASHU: (still looking down) Two-all. CU. RYOKO RYOKO: Game point for me, Ayeka. You sure you want to continue? I'll understand if you want to concede. CU. AYEKA Slowly starting to recover her composure. AYEKA: (furious) Not on your life! CHAMBER (ring) Low long-shot of the circle as Ryoko and Ayeka return to their fight, advancing and retreating a few times. CU. TENCHI Somewhat puzzled. Zoom out to two-shot with Yosho, who very slowly begins to smile. CHAMBER (Washu and Sasami) Washu looks up and begins to look thoughtful again. Sasami's look of worry slowly turns to an eager look of exhortation. 40 INT. LARGE CHAMBER (ring) Ryoko advances and seems to lose her footing, slightly. CU. RYOKO She looks very surprised. CU. AYEKA She is paralyzed with a mild shock. CHAMBER (ring) Ryoko lunges to get her balance. CU. TENCHI His eyes widen. TENCHI: (nearly breathless) I saw it, and I still don't believe it. CU. WASHU She grins and folds her arms. WASHU: Three-two, Ryoko. Game, set and match! CU. RYOKO Ryoko still looks a little surprised. She puts away her weapons calmly and starts to walk away. Pan to Ayeka who is trembling in anger. AYEKA: (stunned) No... No. It can't end like this. I forbid it! 41 INT. LARGE CHAMBER (Tenchi and Yosho) Yosho rolls his eyes and begins to advance toward the circle. CHAMBER (ring) Ayeka goes after Ryoko and then stops just short. AYEKA: (very firm) I accuse you of being a coward and a cheat! I challenge you to fight me to the death! Ryoko turns and smirks, not even deigning to respond. Yosho enters the shot and puts a hand on Ayeka's shoulder. YOSHO: Ayeka... AYEKA: (grief and outrage) I will not be cheated out of my destiny! CU. WASHU Looking around curiously. WASHU: Hmm... CHAMBER (ring) Yosho faces Ayeka. Ryoko sticks out her tongue. YOSHO: (very gently) Ayeka. I know how you feel, but this isn't the time or the place. Just look around you. CU. RYOKO RYOKO: (snide) Very graceful in defeat, I see. CU. SASAMI SASAMI: (pleading) Ayeka... CHAMBER (ring) Ayeka turns and looks toward Sasami. Grief and outrage are still apparent on her face as she hugs Yosho and begins to sob. 42 INT. LARGE CHAMBER (Tenchi) He sighs and looks down, scratching his head absently. CHAMBER (ring) Ryoko is standing aside, just starting to frown. Ayeka collects herself and pulls away, but she cannot look up. She is bright red with shame. YOSHO: (comfortingly) Besides, you know we are forbidden by Jurai law to fight to the death without approval. AYEKA: (still unsteady) Yes. I had forgotten. I have been away from Jurai for too long. Pan to Tenchi as he approaches. He seems a bit confused. TENCHI: I hate to be a nuisance, but I don't understand. What were you fighting about? CU. RYOKO RYOKO: (grinning) Silly boy, we were fighting over you! CHAMBER (ring) AYEKA: (muttering) Just keep gloating, mummy-woman. YOSHO: Hey! No need to leave right away. Wait until tomorrow. Tenchi stops. Ryoko appears behind him, silently. TENCHI: Leave? RYOKO: (softly) Yes, Tenchi. The loser leaves the Earth forever. Those were the stakes. TENCHI: Seems like an awful lot on a little duel. Washu joins the shot with Sasami. WASHU: A little duel? Only the fight of the century! SASAMI: (to Tenchi) Is Ayeka all right? RYOKO: Oh, don't worry. She only hurt her pride. CU. RYOKO She smiles and ponders for a moment. RYOKO: (VO) Hmm... No, too soon. 43 EXT. A LARGE CITY Airships fill the skies of a city at night. Tall buildings fill the horizon with a soft glow in the distance. 44 EXT. MUSEUM A large, oval-shaped building with several large windows. A few people are walking by. Within the building, it is mostly darkened. A uniformed figure carrying a flashlight goes by one window. 45 INT. UPPER HALLWAY The hallway is lined with paintings and little stands bearing plaques. Each plaque gives a short description, the title, the artist name and a date. The light from the figure's flashlight bobs up and down slowly into the shot as the figure approaches. The uniformed figure glances around casually, obviously not expecting to see anything. He approaches an intersection and takes a quick glance. CU. UNIFORMED FIGURE In dim light. He pulls some small box from a pocket and takes a tiny cylinder out. He sticks it in his mouth and is just about to light it when he hears something--a soft but distinct pop! emanating from somewhere in the darkness. INT. A NEARBY BOOKCASE Three shadowy figures, hiding next to a bookcase. The figure in front is holding out an arm, as if to keep them back. CU. UNIFORMED FIGURE Holding a lighter just short of his cigarette. He is caught in mid-motion for a moment. He then shrugs and lights it, continuing down the hall as he blows some smoke. Follow motion for about three or four steps. BOOKCASE The first shadowy figure emerges into a medium-shot of the bookcase. The figure is clearly a woman wearing a beret and dark clothing. The second figure is a man with long, dark hair, tied into a pony-tail under a dark fedora. A third figure emerges a bit more slowly--a woman dressed in a monk's robe with the hood up. CU. FIRST FIGURE Close-up on the first figure, who is chewing something. She snorts softly to herself and blows a bubble. 46 INT. UPPER HALLWAY The figures walk out into the hallway. Another pop! breaks the silence as they go toward the paintings. FIRST FIGURE: (very softly) Come on. CU. FIRST PAINTING The plaque gives a title: "Nice, Sunny Day." It describes the painting as the first and only painting sold by a particular artist during his lifetime. It describes the unique sense of space that the painting creates in the viewer's mind and how it was obviously painted as a way to mark a successful endeavor in the field of acting to which the artist also belonged. A hand quickly appears and takes the painting. HALLWAY The first figure puts the painting in a large case, carried by the third figure. The second figure looks around, cautiously. The first figure touches him on the arm, and they continue to the next painting. CU. SECOND PAINTING "A Princess Waves Goodbye" is its title. It depicts the departure of a large sea-vessel. A woman standing at the dock holds a fan in one hand and waves with the other. The plaque describes it as a very old painting whose authorship is still being debated, but conventional reasoning names a specific, relatively unknown artist. HALLWAY First figure pauses for a moment to look at the painting, as if assessing its worth. She then shrugs and takes it. CU. THIRD PAINTING "Dream of Futility." It is an abstract work by a modern, living artist whose works are intended to shock and beguile audiences. It appears to be a rendering of Vishnu, surrounded by clouds and lightning. Snakes appear to grow from his hands, and the snakes have entangled themselves among each other. They appear to be trying to bite each other. CU. FIRST FIGURE She is a little taken-aback by this painting. She seems about to leave it, but then decides to take it. 47 INT. UPPER HALLWAY The first figure takes the painting. The uniformed figure suddenly appears from the shadows with a weapon ready. UNIFORMED FIGURE: Hold it! Don't move, or I'll shoot. CU. UNIFORMED FIGURE Taking out a small device from a belt loop and activating it. Alarms and lights go off, and the figure nods after a short beep from the device. HALLWAY Uniformed figure keeps his eyes firmly on the others as he pushes another button on the device. UNIFORMED FIGURE: Unit seven to unit four, have suspects in the upper third floor gallery. Inform... The uniformed figure suddenly falls over. The second figure appears to have moved, and is holding a short baton in his hands. SECOND FIGURE: (to third figure) Leave them. They'll just slow us down. Third figure pauses. Other uniformed figures are approaching quickly from the other end of the hall. FIRST FIGURE: (calmly) There's no time to debate this. Through the window. 48 EXT. MUSUEM The upper floor window explodes outward. The three figures leap through. 49 EXT. MUSEUM (perspective) High, falling-shot. The ground quickly approaches. 50 EXT. STREET (near museum) A fancy-looking car is waiting. The three figures enter the shot and leap into the car. The second figure has lost his fedora. 51 INT. CAR The three figures are in the front of the car. The first figure is driving and the third is pressing buttons on a console in front of the passenger side. The second is in between, preparing to crawl into the back seat. 52 EXT. STREET The car as it lurches forward. 53 INT. CAR The second figure has crawled into the back seat and is assembling some type of weapon, twisting catches to attach one end of the device to another. SECOND FIGURE: I really hate this. FIRST FIGURE: Hey! This should be fun. 54 EXT. STREET Several other cars are following the first car in close pursuit. Shots are fired at the first car and ricochet off the windows. 55 INT. CAR The third figure is still impossible to discern from the hood being up. She examines the visual screen. A small tactical display has zoomed into view. THIRD FIGURE: (softly) They're going to catch us. CU. FIRST FIGURE Just about ready to laugh. FIRST FIGURE: In their dreams! CU. SECOND FIGURE Closes his eyes for a moment. SECOND FIGURE: (murmurs) Sorry... 56 EXT. STREET The pursuing cars are gaining ground, continuing to volley their shots at the first car's windows, wheels, and trunk. One car suddenly flies into the air and crashes off to the side, violently ripping away its top and catching fire. 57 INT. CAR The first figure clenches her hand in triumph while the second sighs, sullen. FIRST FIGURE: Yeah! Take that, you worms! CU. THIRD FIGURE THIRD FIGURE: (softly) We should have left the artwork behind. Now, they'll be able to track us. CU. FIRST FIGURE FIRST FIGURE: (snarling) Well, you're the tactician. Think of something! CU. SECOND FIGURE SECOND FIGURE: (nervous) Let's not do anything stupid, okay? 58 EXT. STREET The car leaves the city with several other cars still in pursuit. An airship approaches. 59 EXT. INTERSECTION (following first car) First car skids off the road onto a dirt track. The car is suddenly engulfed in the forest. The car takes a path up into the hills for a short way and then disappears into a small tunnel. 60 EXT. INTERSECTION Two of the pursuing cars continue onto the dirt track. The others stay at the intersection. 61 EXT. TUNNEL Six cars come out and go back down the path. 62 EXT. FOREST SHOT Long overhead-shot of the decoy cars heading off in different directions. 63 EXT. TUNNEL The opening quickly closes and a holographic image of a rock face flickers to life, making it indistiguishable from the rest of the hill. 64 INT. TUNNEL The three figures are waiting, while the car in front of them changes into a spaceship. SECOND FIGURE: We only have a few moments before they catch on. FIRST FIGURE: Plenty of time! Let's go, everybody! Get in! CU. SPACESHIP Door slides open. TUNNEL The second and third figures enter the ship. SECOND FIGURE: Come on! First figure is taking a shoulder-belt, loaded with weapons. SECOND FIGURE: (OC) Hey! What are you waiting for? CU. FIRST FIGURE She smiles and takes out a device. She presses a button. CU. SPACESHIP The door snaps shut. TUNNEL The first figure is running toward the entrance. Several loud explosions thunder through the tunnel. FIRST FIGURE: (grimly) Get going or I'll die for nothing! 65 INT. SPACESHIP The second figure watches a display of the first figure leaving the tunnel. THIRD FIGURE: (softly) We really should leave. 66 EXT. NEAR HILLSIDE The first figure stops for a moment and looks around. FIRST FIGURE: (mournfully) Get going, already. 67 EXT. ABOVE FOREST Airships get hit by bullets. They fire back. 68 EXT. FOREST SIDE The first figure disappears into the forest. 69 EXT. HILLSIDE The spaceship explodes through the top and shoots off into a circular energy field. 70 INT. SPACESHIP The third figure is still impossible to discern, but she puts her hand on his shoulder. THIRD FIGURE: I'm sorry. But you know, it was the only way. 71 INT. TENCHI'S BEDROOM Tenchi is slumped over a desk. His eyes open, and he very slowly looks down at the books his head was laying on. He stands and stretches. Some curious thuds and voices are wafting through the air. With a somewhat perplexed look, Tenchi leaves the room. 72 INT. MAIN HALL Sasami and Ryoko are playing a video game. Tenchi enters slowly. SASAMI: I win again! That's twelve to five. RYOKO: Stupid game. I swear, my controller isn't working right. Hey, Tenchi. TENCHI: Oh, hello. CU. SASAMI SASAMI: I'm beating her silly! CU. RYOKO RYOKO: I'm letting her win. MAIN HALL Sasami stands next to Tenchi. Ryoko slowly stands, rubbing her eyes. SASAMI: No way! I'd be skunking you, but Ryo-Ohki distracted me. TENCHI: Uh... Sasami, shouldn't you be asleep right now? CU. RYOKO RYOKO: (yawning) Yeah. You should quit while you're still ahead. CU. SASAMI She rolls her eyes and smiles. SASAMI: I better go to bed, or Ayeka will start to get worried. 73 INT. MAIN HALL Sasami starts to leave, and then drags Tenchi along with her. SASAMI: Tenchi, come on! It's rude to let me walk all alone in the middle of the night, you know. TENCHI: (a little flustered) Oh, all right. Ayeka enters as Sasami and Tenchi are leaving. AYEKA: Oh, good evening, Lord Tenchi. CU. AYEKA Carrying a bottle of sake. She pauses for a moment, then continues toward the table. AYEKA: I could not sleep. I'm a little surprised to see you here. MAIN HALL (table) Ayeka places the bottle on the table and sits. Ryoko stands just off to the side. RYOKO: Where did you think I would be? CU. AYEKA AYEKA: (smiling) You know, nothing you say could upset me, now. I am immune to your snide remarks. CU. RYOKO RYOKO: (a little perturbed) Hey, I was just trying to be polite. MAIN HALL (table) Ayeka begins to pour some sake for herself. She narrows her eyes a bit. AYEKA: (softly) Don't I know it. (kindly) Would you like some of this, or are you off to bed? Ryoko looks hesitant for a moment, then sits and pours herself some sake. AYEKA: I know you are worried about my departure plans, but you need not be. I have already arranged transports. RYOKO: Oh? AYEKA: (sighing) Mihoshi owes me a favor and will take me as far as the preserve station. From there, I've arranged for a Jurai ship to take me home. They were quite eager to help. RYOKO: (nodding) You sound like you have it all worked out. AYEKA: You know I cannot arrange for anything faster. RYOKO: (laughing) Hey, Princess! Take it easy. One way or another, you know. CU. AYEKA She scowls and slams her fist on the table. AYEKA: I had you, you know. CU. RYOKO Ryoko is still grinning. MAIN HALL AYEKA: Why are you so happy? Still gloating, I suppose. RYOKO: (laughing again) No, not really. AYEKA: Then why are you laughing? RYOKO: It's just... This is silly, but you know, I've always felt like I could confide in you. We always seem to have these moments where we just sit and talk. AYEKA: It's probably just the sake... RYOKO: No. Not at all... Hey... CU. RYOKO Turning her head toward the door. CU. AYEKA AYEKA: (smiling) Tenchi! You want some sake also? CU. DOOR TENCHI: (OC) Oh! Uh... No, thanks. I was just heading for bed. MAIN HALL Two-shot of Ayeka and Ryoko. Ryoko laughs as Ayeka tries to hide a grin. 74 EXT. MASAKI HOUSE The house framed once again in nice morning sunlight. 75 EXT. LAUNCH FIELD Mihoshi's cruiser is standing. Mihoshi is there in her GP uniform. Ayeka and Sasami are there. Washu arrives a moment after Ayeka and Sasami. Yosho is just behind, strolling along as if nothing in the world were happening. 76 EXT. NEAR CRUISER MIHOSHI: I'm all set to go... uh... I think. She starts to look around at the ship, and then gasps. MIHOSHI: Oh my! This can't be good. She goes over to the ship and opens the hatch. The hatch shuts again on its own. AYEKA: (sighing) I suppose we should be grateful we haven't crashed yet. Washu enters. WASHU: I just wanted to wish you a safe journey. SASAMI: Oh, that's so sweet! WASHU: Oh, I also went back and studied the record I made of the fight. I computed a ninety-seven-point- three percent probability that you were destined to lose, so you shouldn't feel too bad about it. AYEKA: (sullen) Oh, thank you. I feel much better, now. Yosho enters. YOSHO: Ayeka. It was nice to have you here. I wish you could return... AYEKA: I cannot, my brother. I made a vow. Much as I might hate it, I cannot go back on my vows. YOSHO: Ah, I see. Well, goodbye then. CU. TENCHI Straining to carry a pile of luggage. TENCHI: (annoyed) I don't see why no one else can carry some of this. 77 EXT. NEAR CRUISER Ayeka hugs Yosho and he returns it gently. AYEKA: I shall miss you, my brother! CU. YOSHO Smiling and consoling. YOSHO: I will, as well. NEAR CRUISER The group continues hugging and saying farewells. Mihoshi is struggling with her ship. Tenchi, exhausted, drops the luggage nearby. Ryoko appears well off to the side, looking a little disgusted. CU. MIHOSHI She looks around triumphantly and waves. MIHOSHI: Hey, I got it! The hatch opens on her head and knocks her silly. 78 EXT. ANOTHER FIELD A field surrounded by forest. Ryoko enters. CU. RYOKO She scans all around. She looks down and smiles. RYOKO: There you are! FIELD Ryoko picks up Ryo-Ohki. RYOKO: Hey, you missed out on all the fun. Didn't you want to say goodbye? CU. RYO-OHKI Looks about as sad as possible. CU. RYOKO She hugs Ryo-Ohki close. RYOKO: Oh, I know. I'm so sorry. 79 EXT. MASAKI SHRINE Shrouded in evening twilight. CU. DOOR It slides open and Yosho looks thoughtfully around, and then up. 80 EXT. SKY A shooting star plunges from the sky. A moment later, a bit of thunder rolls across the fields. 81 EXT. SHRINE, CU. YOSHO YOSHO: (to himself) Hmm... An actual landing? 82 EXT. DISTANT FORESTED HILLS A couple of beats pass in perfect silence. Then, a huge explosion goes up that shakes the ground. 83 EXT. SHRINE, CU. YOSHO He sighs and returns to the shrine. 84 EXT. PATH Tenchi is returning from school. 85 INT. MAIN HALL Washu, Noboyuki and Yosho are sitting at the table. CU. DOOR Tenchi opens door and enters. MAIN HALL TENCHI: (respectfully) Hello, Grandpa. Hello, Dad. Hello, Little Washu. YOSHO: (turning) Oh, hello there Tenchi. We were just talking about you. TENCHI: (laughing a bit half-heartedly) Oh? YOSHO: Don't worry. We hear you are doing well in school. Not working too hard, I hope? TENCHI: (flustered) Oh? No, of course not! WASHU: Come here and sit down, Tenchi. I made a nice meal today. TENCHI: You did? CU. TENCHI He goes to sit down. TENCHI: Hey, where's Ryoko? CU. WASHU WASHU: (smirking) I sent her to get some supplies and help out with a little problem. MAIN HALL (table) Tenchi sits and begins to take some food. TENCHI: A problem? What happened? Nothing serious, I hope. NOBOYUKI: Mihoshi had a little accident. We fixed her up, but there's only so much first aid in the medicine cabinet. TENCHI: Huh? Pan over to door, where Mihoshi enters. Her wrists are wrapped and she is walking with a crutch. She is seriously favoring her left leg. MIHOSHI: I'm sorry to be such a bother, but my leg's really starting to hurt. Oh, Tenchi! Hello! CU. TENCHI He's about to eat. TENCHI: Hello, Mihoshi. Boy, you really look like you took a bad spill. MAIN HALL MIHOSHI: (smiling) Oh yeah. Ryoko enters behind Mihoshi with a small sack and nearly bowls her over, getting to the table. RYOKO: Hey! What's for dinner? I'm starving! CU. TENCHI He looks down and sighs. 86 EXT. SPACE STATION The Solar System Preserve Station, hung amongst the stars in the void of space. A couple of ships are on the outer docks. 87 INT. DINGY QUARTERS Ayeka and Sasami with their luggage. They both look very bored and sleepy, lying in their cots. AYEKA: (wistful) I know I've said this before, but space stations are never quite as nice as they make them seem. Sasami murmurs in apparent agreement. AYEKA: You can never get a good meal or a nice bath. A few beats go by. AYEKA: The staff is always horridly rude. Sasami sighs and rolls over. SASAMI: I know, I miss everything already. AYEKA: (thoughtful) You know, Sasami, I've been thinking. I don't care what anyone says. We make our own decisions. We aren't just playthings for the whim of fate. We decide where we are going. A few more beats go by. AYEKA: In fact, I think people should take more responsibility for their own actions. The universe would be a happier place if they did. Of course... I know, I'm just being silly. I can't deny my fate has brought me here. And what's to hope for in life without a destiny? SASAMI: Ayeka? What are you talking about? AYEKA: Sasami, I've come to a decision. My fate has brought me here. SASAMI: Yes... AYEKA: Fate will decide for me. If I was meant to go, I'll go. If I was meant to leave, then I'll leave. You can decide for yourself, of course. Sasami chokes a little, hardly able to breathe, she is so nervous. AYEKA: The next ship that leaves--I'll leave with it, no matter where it goes. Back to medium-shot. A few more beats go by. SASAMI: (softly) You want a sign from fate? AYEKA: Yes. That is what I've decided. CU. DOOR The door-chime goes off. CU. AYEKA She starts to sit up. AYEKA: (nervously) Yes? What is it? CU. DOOR The door slides open and a station officer appears. OFFICER: Uh... Your highness, we just received this urgent communique. It is from the _Dreadnought_. CU. AYEKA Ayeka is clearly alarmed. She hurriedly stands. AYEKA: Urgent! What is it? What do they say? CU. OFFICER OFFICER: (a little flustered) Uh... Well, they say that they were forced to cancel their rendezvous with the Castalian diplomat. They say that they are headed directly here and should arrive within the hour. CU. AYEKA Ayeka looks a little confused for a moment and then pales. AYEKA: (shaky) Thank you very much, you may go now. CU. OFFICER He wipes away some sweat and leaves. QUARTERS Ayeka lays back down, and Sasami sits up. SASAMI: (very worried) Ayeka, what does it mean? AYEKA: (barely able to speak) It means I am a fool. 88 EXT. OUTER SHRINE STEPS Morning sunshine on a long set of steps. Tenchi is sweeping. CU. TENCHI Giddy with contentment. He stops and looks around, taking a long, deep breath. He begins to whistle. TENCHI: (VO) Whenever I'm in a good mood, it's always an ill omen. I didn't know it then, but something appalling always seems to happen just when I'm starting to enjoy my life again. 89 EXT. HIGH ABOVE STEPS Ryoko appears out of thin air about thirty feet up, and makes a double-take. 90 EXT. OUTER SHRINE STEPS Ryoko appears behind Tenchi and considers. RYOKO: Hey there, Tenchi! TENCHI: (turning around) Oh, hello Ryoko. Boy, isn't it a nice day, today? Ryoko frowns a bit. TENCHI: (a little nervously) Uh... I'm sorry, did I say something wrong? Tenchi chuckles and leans on the broom. RYOKO: Oh never mind. You'll never guess what I found today. TENCHI: Uh... No, sorry. I have no idea. What did you find? CU. RYOKO She takes out a small book. RYOKO: This. You'll never guess what it is... CU. TENCHI Scratching his head. TENCHI: Huh? You know, it looks a little familiar... STEPS RYOKO: (surprised) Really? What is it, then? TENCHI: Hey, that belongs to Ayeka! That's her journal! What are you doing with it? RYOKO: What do you mean? I just found it. TENCHI: (uncertain) You just found it? RYOKO: I swear. Don't you want to know what she wrote? TENCHI: No. RYOKO: Come on, it's not like you're ever going to see her again. Aren't you the least bit curious? TENCHI: (sweeping again) No, I'm not. It's hers. I don't take things that don't belong to me. RYOKO: Oh, Tenchi. Don't be a kill-joy. You know, I think she would want you to read it, if she were here. CU. TENCHI He stops sweeping again, annoyed. TENCHI: I seriously doubt that. CU. RYOKO She frowns, disappointed. RYOKO: You know, this isn't like you. I thought for sure, you'd be interested. STEPS TENCHI: (sigh) Sorry, Ryoko. I guess you misjudged me. I'm not letting you upset me on such a nice day. Just do me a favor and put that back where you found it. RYOKO: (scowling) Okay, be that way. I'll just read it myself. And I'm not letting you touch it. Ryoko vanishes. Tenchi shrugs and goes back to sweeping. 91 INT. MAIN HALL Mihoshi sitting wide-eyed in front of the TV, wearing a cast on her left leg. Yosho enters and rubs his chin. YOSHO: Hello, Mihoshi. You mind if I sit down? MIHOSHI: Huh? Oh, no I don't mind! Yosho goes to sit down. CU. YOSHO He sits and adjusts his glasses, looking at the television. YOSHO: Interesting program. CU. MIHOSHI She smiles and gestures somewhat wildly. MIHOSHI: Oh yeah! They have this song they did today that I really liked. How did it go? 'You can make it all happen with your hands' or something like that. Then they started talking about the names of rivers. Did you know how many rivers there are around here? CU. YOSHO A little irritated. YOSHO: (nicely) Yes. They inform and delight the senses. MAIN HALL (near TV) Yosho clears his throat and continues. YOSHO: They do a nice dance, I imagine. MIHOSHI: They do! Oh, wow! Have you seen this before? YOSHO: (stiffly) Perhaps. Perhaps. I wonder, though? MIHOSHI: Huh? YOSHO: Have you seen this place before? Yosho takes out a small pamphlet and hands it to Mihoshi. MIHOSHI: The new restaurant? Yes, I've been there a few times. Why? CU. YOSHO He leans back and explains. YOSHO: Well, the problem is, I think my grandson is spending far too much time working. He's become morose and withdrawn. He needs to spend some time having fun. CU. MIHOSHI She looks completely confused. MAIN HALL (near TV) YOSHO: I'd like you to take him there--if it's not too much trouble, that is. I know you're not in the best of health. MIHOSHI: No, no! It's no trouble. It's just... Well... YOSHO: Yes? MIHOSHI: (softly) You want me to go out on a date? YOSHO: (stiff) Well, not exactly. It just seems to me that the two of you relate so much better than I or his father. Just keep him company, you know. MIHOSHI: Wow, really? This is awfully nice. I don't want to be any trouble. YOSHO: It's no trouble. I would consider it a favor. CU. MIHOSHI MIHOSHI: (grinning) This is so nice, sir! I'm so flattered! I'll do it, of course, but... CU. YOSHO He smiles, patiently. YOSHO: Yes? CU. MIHOSHI MIHOSHI: (frowning) I was under the impression that Ryoko was his girlfriend, and I wouldn't want to upset anyone. CU. YOSHO He rolls his eyes, sighing. YOSHO: Well, Mihoshi, you may do whatever you wish, of course, but Tenchi always tells me that Ryoko is just a good friend. I also happen to know that Ryoko is... a little preoccupied at the moment. I wouldn't worry about her. CU. MIHOSHI MIHOSHI: (smiling) What a relief! I'm so glad to hear that! Thank you, so much! MAIN HALL (near TV) Yosho goes back to watching the television. YOSHO: (VO) What a tiresome woman! Oh, well. Three down, two to go. 92 EXT. WASHU'S LABORATORY Washu is working at her console. There's a knock on her door. WASHU: Come in, Yosho! CU. DOOR The door opens to permit Yosho. He enters, looking a little confused. YOSHO: How did you know it would be me? CU. WASHU Still working at her console. WASHU: Well, I happen to know that _someone_ is up to no good around here, and I just took a guess that that someone was you. LAB Washu turns from her console and looks at Yosho. WASHU: But don't worry. I'll be here all night. I'm working on my latest invention. YOSHO: (relieved) Ah. Then I'll leave you to your work. I won't trouble you again. Yosho turns and leaves. WASHU: Hmm... Oh well, it's none of my business, anyway. 93 EXT. SPACE STATION The _Dreadnought_ is docked with the station. 94 INT. ELABORATE QUARTERS An elaborately decorated room. Ayeka and Sasami enter. Their luggage is already there, properly stowed beside some compartments. A ship captain follows them in, properly standing at attention, like a hotel porter. Ayeka looks around and sighs, seeing everything in order. AYEKA: You and your men are commended for their excellent work. Carry on, soldier. CAPTAIN: Yes, your highness. The ship captain turns and leaves, very formally. Ayeka sits across from the compartment area. Sasami crosses directly to the luggage. Ayeka is trying to keep her composure, but her eyes seem to get very moist, seemingly of their own free will. Eventually, she is forced to wipe her face. Sasami has already opened the luggage when she notices that Ayeka is weeping. Sasami frowns and then quickly looks back through the cases, searching for something. CU. AYEKA She wipes her face and clears her throat. AYEKA: Sasami, you know you shouldn't play right now. We will soon be underway, and we will need to prepare. CU. SASAMI She turns and smiles, holding a tiny flute. SASAMI: You want a song, first? QUARTERS AYEKA: (smiling) Actually, I was thinking about the little crystal festivity. (she looks through the luggage, briefly) Ah, here it is. CU. AYEKA She sits and carefully sets down the merry-go-round, pressing some switches. She wipes her face again and laughs, seeing the animals circle the platform and hearing the cheery music playing. She picks it up. AYEKA: You know, Sasami. I was very young when I first played with this. When I gave it to you, I had no idea I would ever want to see it again. CU. SASAMI SASAMI: (subdued) It's more fun when you don't have someone to play with. CU. AYEKA Begins to look thoughtful. AYEKA: You know, I've never told anyone about this. Come closer, Sasami. I want to show you. QUARTERS Sasami sits right next to Ayeka. AYEKA: (whispering) If you press these three switches in just the right order, a little compartment opens out of the bottom. CU. AYEKA Ayeka demonstrates this. The bottom swings open. Ayeka looks in, her concern growing. She frowns. AYEKA: That's peculiar. I thought for certain it was in here. CU. SASAMI SASAMI: (a little worried) What is it? QUARTERS Ayeka looks frantically through the luggage. She scowls and looks through it again. She turns a case upside-down. AYEKA: My diary. I kept a diary on Earth with all my personal memories in it. SASAMI: A diary? I've never seen any diary. AYEKA: Well, it is most certainly not here. Ayeka stops and considers for a moment. CU. AYEKA A look of rage grows on her face that is almost too scary to imagine. AYEKA: (very stiff) I'll kill her. I am going to kill her! That devil-woman! How dare she steal my most personal possessions! Ayeka is trembling visibly with pent-up rage. CU. SASAMI Shocked and worried. CU. AYEKA Stamping across the room. AYEKA: Fate or no, I'm going to teach that woman a lesson! Come on, Sasami! 95 EXT. MASAKI HOUSE A forest at sunset. Tilt downward to house. 96 EXT. PATIO The water nearby is very still and calm. A gentle breeze carries a few leaves onto the patio. Lounging in a recliner is Yosho, looking calm as usual. He looks across the water briefly, and seems to smile. CU. YOSHO He stretches and adjusts his glasses. 97 EXT. LAKE Sunset across the lake. A few birds fly across. 98 INT. WASHROOM Mihoshi is trying to carry three little bags, apply some make-up and limp along on a crutch at the same time. 99 INT. RYOKO'S ROOM Ryoko is sitting crossed-legged and akimbo, staring blankly. CU. RYOKO Ryoko closes her eyes and inexplicably begins to weep. 100 EXT. MASAKI ENTRANCE WALKWAY Noboyuki approaches the house. A figure is slowly approaching behind him. 101 EXT. PATIO Yosho still reclines as Noboyuki enters. NOBOYUKI: Hey, where is everybody? 102 EXT. MASAKI HOUSE Late evening shot of forest. Tilt upward toward the house. A couple of tiny figures are approaching, side-by-side. 103 INT. MAIN HALL At the table are Yosho and Noboyuki, sitting beside Suzuki. They have just been laughing about something. CU. DOOR Slides open to permit Tenchi and Mihoshi. MAIN HALL (table) YOSHO: Oh, hello Tenchi! Back so soon? CU. TENCHI He looks around and suddenly becomes very nervous. TENCHI: Oh, hello Grandpa. Hello, Dad. Hello, Mr. Suzuki. MAIN HALL (table) YOSHO: (smiling) Tenchi, please come and sit down. You, as well, Mihoshi. Tenchi goes nervously to the table. Mihoshi manages to limp along to the table. YOSHO: We were just having the most pleasant conversation about you, Tenchi. Mr. Suzuki is very pleased with your progress, and he wanted to offer some words of encouragement. TENCHI: (flustered) Oh, uh... Gee, I don't know what to say... I'm sorry. Tenchi helps Mihoshi sit and then takes a seat for himself. NOBOYUKI: (matter-of-factly) Mr. Suzuki and I met today, and he said he had been invited here before. We've been talking since then, and he has said nothing but good things about you, Tenchi. Tenchi chortles a bit to himself. SUZUKI: I'm just a little disappointed not to have met this Ayeka, you told me about, Tenchi. I haven't met Ryoko, but I hear she's an old friend of the family. (turning) I'm sure I've seen you, though, pretty lady. MIHOSHI: Huh? SUZUKI: Ah, now I remember. I was just leaving the theater, when I saw you and another pretty young woman standing next to you. MIHOSHI: You mean that musical? CU. TENCHI Turning red from embarrassment. CU. NOBOYUKI Smiling with recognition. NOBOYUKI: Oh! The other pretty lady you saw was Ryoko! MAIN HALL (table) SUZUKI: (musing) It must be awfully distracting, having three pretty young women hanging around all the time. TENCHI: (recovering) It is, sir! SUZUKI: This explains to me a good deal. CU. YOSHO YOSHO: We shouldn't embarrass young Tenchi, like this. I'm sure he has enough on his mind, as it is. Am I right, Mr. Suzuki? CU. SUZUKI SUZUKI: This is correct. Tenchi has a report due tomorrow, and he should already be well on his way to having finished it. CU. TENCHI Turns slightly pale. MAIN HALL (table) Suzuki is looking a little concerned. A worried expression appears on Noboyuki's face. SUZUKI: You do remember the assignment--don't you, Tenchi? TENCHI: Uh... Sure. I mean, yes sir. The report of the significance of Beethoven's ninth symphony? CU. DOOR It flies open and Sasami comes running in. Behind her is Ayeka, brandishing a wicked-looking dagger. AYEKA: Where is that devil-woman!? MAIN HALL (table) Tenchi looks faint. Suzuki merely raises an eyebrow. Sasami approaches the table. SASAMI: (excited) Tenchi! CU. YOSHO Gestures to somewhere behind Ayeka. CU. AYEKA Ryoko appears behind her. Ayeka spins around. AYEKA: Let us step outside, shall we? RYOKO: (snorting) I don't take orders from a fussy little statue like you. MAIN HALL (table) TENCHI: (very disconcerted) Oh boy. It's nice to see you again, Sasami. CU. AYEKA AYEKA: (boiling over) I knew it! You just cannot mind your own business, no matter what. That diary was my most personal and intimate feelings. You have no right to consider yourself human! MAIN HALL (near door) Ryoko suddenly flashes anger. RYOKO: Oh sure! That's why you conveniently forgot it! If it was so precious, why did you leave it behind!? AYEKA: If I say it is precious to me, it is! And it is no concern of yours to make it your business! I renew my challenge, demon! I shall fight you to the death, legal or not! CU. SASAMI Sighs as she picks up Ryo-Ohki. MAIN HALL (table) Suzuki rubbing his chin, thoughtfully. SUZUKI: (softly) They won't really kill each other, will they? Yosho shrugs in reply. Tenchi looks down in disgust. 104 INT. MAIN HALL (near door) RYOKO: Boy, Princess, you sure are a piece. You call me a coward and a cheater, you go back on your own vow, and then you have the nerve to challenge me to a fight to the death. How can you live with yourself? I can't believe I actually felt sorry for you. AYEKA: Spare me your pity, demon! You're fighting me right now, or I'll take your head and mount it on a wall! CU. TENCHI He turns and tries to interrupt. TENCHI: Please, can't we all just calm down? MAIN HALL (near door) Ayeka and Ryoko glare at him, venomously. CU. TENCHI Cringes and turns around slowly. MAIN HALL (table) A bright light fills the room and a huge explosion fills the air. Shattered glass scatters across the floor. YOSHO: (calmly) Ah, I see they are taking it outside. Sasami runs toward the ruined windows (OC). Tenchi covers his face with his hands. SUZUKI: Tenchi! The report was supposed to be about the significance of the styles in Beethoven's ninth. Several more explosions fill the air. TENCHI: Huh? CU. SUZUKI Rolls his eyes. SUZUKI: Young man, I want your report to explain Beethoven's use of contrasting styles and to examine their significance. CU. TENCHI TENCHI: Oh. Yes sir! MAIN HALL (table) Suzuki begins to stand. SUZUKI: Please excuse me. It has been an interesting evening, but I really must return home. I am neglecting my duties. NOBOYUKI: Of course. Yosho nods. SUZUKI: And Tenchi! Tenchi turns from his brooding. SUZUKI: I expect you to write a good report! TENCHI: Yes sir! 105 INT. MAIN HALL Suzuki leaves the room. A few thunderous explosions fill the air again, and then all is silent. CU. SASAMI Sasami and Ryo-Ohki leave the room. CU. MIHOSHI MIHOSHI: (yawning) Boy, this was one exciting day! I'm totally exhausted. CU. WASHU She enters suddenly. WASHU: I just finished my latest invention! Anyone want to see? MAIN HALL (table) They groan with exhaustion. CU. WASHU WASHU: (disappointed) What? Did I miss something? THE END