Author: Mike Fenton Title: AFS #10 (LOYALTY SILLINESS) Notes: Regular (OVA), script format Summary: The emperor brings his usual good cheer. [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 SHRINE Early morning. Tenchi is out front, sweeping, as Funaho approaches. FUNAHO: Good morning. Tenchi somberly turns and greets her. TENCHI: Oh, good morning. Funaho is momentarily taken aback, then pleasant again. 2 INT. SHRINE Funaho enters, and Yosho appears, gesturing. YOSHO: Mother, shall we go outside? I like to watch the sunlight in the early morning hours. FUNAHO: Really? All right. 3 EXT. SHRINE STEPS Yosho emerges and sits at the front steps. Funaho follows behind him. FUNAHO: (frowning) Will you never sit up straight, my Son? YOSHO: (smiling) Only for you, Mother. Yosho folds his arms and sits up, stiffly. Funaho sits next to him. FUNAHO: (softly) I see. (gesturing at Tenchi) Great-grandson there not only speaks strangely, he also acts strangely. And I suspect I know the cause. YOSHO: Tenchi? He is merely maturing. It is normal for one his age. FUNAHO: In Juraian terms? YOSHO: (adjusting his glasses) Exactly. Funaho slumps her back and hitches her speech slightly, in imitation of Yosho. FUNAHO: And if he turns out like the old man, Ayeka need not even distinguish between the two of you. You are not concerned for his welfare? Yosho chuckles for a moment, then clears his throat, surprised. YOSHO: Old man? Funaho grins, then merely smirks. She returns to a more proper expression. FUNAHO: Who is that young man, Yosho? Is he really the same boy I met just a few years ago? Is it true that--? Tenchi turns and looks their way, and Yosho waves at him to continue. Tenchi nods and walks toward the outer steps, toward the bottom of the hill. YOSHO: I'd say that Tenchi is well-suited to become Juraian--albeit, not as graceful as you and I. FUNAHO: Yes. How nimbly you side-step my questions. Is this what Jurai has to look forward to? A boy who ducks and weaves his way out of a throne as easily as you did? YOSHO: (pausing for a moment) No. FUNAHO: Ah, so I was right. And he is in no danger of growing weary of the girls? YOSHO: Strangely enough, no. But I consider myself instrumental in that. FUNAHO: (narrowing her eyes) Interesting. How angry poor Ayeka would be if she heard that. YOSHO: (firm, resolute) It's for her own good. Remember, I promised I'd take care of her. FUNAHO: (sighing) That you did. Now, it's time for us to take care of both of you. Funaho stands and straightens her dress, looking down at Yosho. YOSHO: I beg your pardon? FUNAHO: I mean, we will be very kind, and protect you, Yosho. But, just this once. From then on, we can do nothing to protect you from the king's ambitions. YOSHO: I see. He's still lining up suitors. FUNAHO: Yes. And not just for Ayeka. Yosho is a little shocked, then calms himself. YOSHO: (softly) I'll be fishing, if anyone needs me. 4 TITLE: "EPISODE 10: LOYALTY SILLINESS" 5 EXT. SHRINE ENTRANCE Funaho looks a little surprised to see Tenchi waiting for her at the end of the steps. FUNAHO: Tenchi? Is something the matter? TENCHI: Huh? FUNAHO: You're not avoiding some chores inside, are you? TENCHI: Uh, no... Actually, I was waiting for you. FUNAHO: Really? That's very nice of you, Tenchi, but I already know my way. Tenchi struggles with something he wants to say. TENCHI: I, uh-- Funaho is already walking toward the house, avoiding the implicit invitation. FUNAHO: I'm glad to have a word with you, Tenchi. Actually, I've found that the girls refuse to discuss certain things with me. Tenchi hesitates for a moment, then catches up. TENCHI: Yes? Funaho looks around, then back at Tenchi. FUNAHO: For example, Miss Washu. It seems very strange that she simply disappeared this way. Funaho is taking a good stride, and Tenchi has to move a little more quickly to catch up. TENCHI: Well, that's about all there is to say-- FUNAHO: I'd heard a great many strange rumors, but... TENCHI: (chuckling) Oh, really? FUNAHO: (glancing at him) Yes. Doesn't it bother you to see us, Tenchi? I mean, under the circumstances? TENCHI: (blankly confused) What? Of course not. FUNAHO: (carefully neutral) I'd heard a rumor that you were staying on Earth, no matter how much we offered you on Jurai. TENCHI: (a little annoyed) I've never thought about it, actually. I'd hate to leave, of course, but... FUNAHO: (glancing around) You could bring your friends. We have excellent schools there, if you wish to study more of history or art. I'm sure you'd find it most illuminating. TENCHI: (disappointed, somewhat reluctant) Yeah, but I don't think Ryoko would want to go there. I mean, considering-- FUNAHO: (sighing) Yes, I know. One does not forget an atrocity very quickly. I'm sorry, Tenchi. I was being selfish on your behalf, and I apologize. TENCHI: (smiling, very pleasant) Oh, it's okay. It's nothing. I just can't abandon her to herself-- especially while her mother is away like this. It would be inhuman. FUNAHO: (scowling for a moment) Anyway, Great- grandson, I'm very pleased that you are doing well. If there is anything I can do to help, please don't hesitate to ask. I mean that. Tenchi stops and looks down, scratching his head. TENCHI: Well... FUNAHO: (stopping) Yes? TENCHI: Could you help me arrange a private conversation with Ayeka? She's been avoiding me for a while, and I-- FUNAHO: You need not say another word, Tenchi. I understand completely. TENCHI: (very skeptical) You do? Oh, okay. Thank you very much. 6 EXT. SPACE A huge Juraian warship, surrounded by flights of Juraian warships. 7 INT. WARSHIP The emperor is in a large reception area, surrounded by various councilors and uniformed guards holding weapons. AZUSA: Where is that fat man? One councilor turns for a moment from another conversation. AZUSA: Never mind. I'll see to a few other matters, first. Azusa approaches Kilaro, flanked by a couple of guards. Azusa dismisses them, and talks to Kilaro privately. AZUSA: You see all these idiots? I feel like a head nurse in a children's school, at times. KILARO: Doesn't anyone realize why we're here? AZUSA: To seal up that fortress, obviously. The only question is, what type of seal. They argue about this endlessly--as if the method were relevant. KILARO: (quirking an eyebrow) Of course, your Majesty. Azusa gestures him toward a more private location. AZUSA: You may have misunderstood. Is there anyone I can trust? I need to keep my hands clean, if it is possible. KILARO: (puzzling) 'Trust' is a strong word, your Majesty. I would say that you can rely on the smaller ventures. The larger ones spend all their time in the Galaxy Union councils, calling for amendments to the treaty. AZUSA: (frowning) Yes, your treaty. I'd almost forgotten. The best of your smaller 'ventures' are little more than petty smugglers--who'd cut their mother's throats if they thought they could turn a profit from it. KILARO: (laughing) That, they would, Sire. So, I assume-- AZUSA: (shaking his head) I still have one more option. It's risky, but-- 8 EXT. SPACE A small group of strange raider ships appear--seemingly from nowhere. Four of them attack one flight, while another three move toward the center--menacing the main ships. A Juraian warship on the first flight turns and starts firing on the raiders, then explodes for no apparent reason. 9 INT. WARSHIP One of the guards approaches Azusa hurriedly, and makes a rushed, whispered report. AZUSA: Treachery! GUARD: Yes, Sire! AZUSA: Damn! Well, it's settled, then... 10 EXT. SPACE The Juraian fleet pursues the surviving five raider ships, straight into a small fleet of Pirate warships. 11 INT. WARSHIP The emperor and several uniformed officers are standing at a tactical display, watching as several blinking dots appear just behind the pursued symbols. AZUSA: What are those? Pirates? OFFICER: Scumbags. We can handle them, Sire. No need for worry. 12 EXT. SPACE The Pirate warships attack on the left flank, then turn sharply to the right, drawing heavy fire and severe damage to themselves. One flight of Juraian warships is disabled, but the others turn and finish off the Pirates, leaving the raiders to make their escape. 13 INT. WARSHIP The officer looks doubtfully at the display, as Azusa frowns, rubbing his chin. OFFICER: What a waste. They could not have expected to beat us. AZUSA: No, but they did hope to delay us. OFFICER: Sire? AZUSA: They hope that we'll pursue those raiders, but it won't work. We're going in, now. There's no reason to wait any longer. 14 EXT. TRAINING GROUNDS Tenchi is going through a drill--several punches and kicks delivered in a conventional style--as Ayeka appears and smiles to herself. AYEKA: (VO) Tenchi has been training himself. Tenchi stops and grabs a towel, looking around. TENCHI: Must have been my imagination. Ayeka steps out into the open. AYEKA: Excuse me. I was told to see my brother, here. TENCHI: You mean, Yosho? I think he said he was going fishing. AYEKA: (rolling her eyes) How crafy we are, today. I'll have to remember this. TENCHI: (approaching Ayeka) Um... Ayeka is confused for a moment, then smiles. AYEKA: Oh, yes. This is Funaho's way of testing me. Tenchi stops, confused, as he continues to towel off. TENCHI: Huh? AYEKA: I was told to see my brother, so that I would see you. I assume you knew nothing of this. TENCHI: Well-- AYEKA: And your pitiful reason for wanting to speak to me. It's all so obvious. Well, if there's one thing I cannot give you, Lord Tenchi, it's assurances. I only need to assure myself. TENCHI: Ayeka, what are you talking about? I only wanted to ask you if you thought I was doing a good job. I mean, of taking care of you. I did promise to do that. AYEKA: You did? TENCHI: (exasperated) Yes, I did. AYEKA: (puzzling) Strange. I don't recall you ever saying that. TENCHI: (groaning in frustration) Okay. Never mind! I'll just say whatever Grandpa would want me to say. AYEKA: (still puzzling) To whom, might I ask? Tenchi starts to leave the grounds, and Ayeka starts to follow. TENCHI: Your father. You don't need to defend me to him, anymore. I can explain myself just fine. Ayeka smiles for a moment, then frowns abruptly, turning and going after him. AYEKA: Oh, my! That's just the kind of thing that little Sister would tell me. 15 INT. KITCHEN Sasami is working on some food when Funaho and Misaki enter, carrying several wrapped boxes. Sasami flinches in surprise and looks back at her work, confounded. SASAMI: Geez... Misaki drops her boxes at the counter and hugs Sasami. MISAKI: Sasami! SASAMI: It's okay, Mom. You just went shopping. MISAKI: Oh, Sasami! I always miss you so much, my darling little girl! SASAMI: (half wry amusement, half embarrassment) Oh, Mom! FUNAHO: (beaming with amusement) This is more fun than shopping. Ryoko appears for a moment, then hastily disappears again. Ayeka walks in, cringing. AYEKA: Gyah! MISAKI: Ayeka! Oh, my poor little girl! Ayeka sighs and bows her head in acceptance. AYEKA: Hello, Mother... Misaki glares at Ayeka somewhat menacingly. 16 INT. MAIN HALL Tenchi enters, glancing around speculatively. Ryoko appears, bringing him to an abrupt halt in front of the kitchen door. RYOKO: Tenchi! Be careful! TENCHI: Huh? What's wrong? RYOKO: The others are in there. TENCHI: The others? RYOKO: That woman and her offspring... TENCHI: (annoyed) Really, Ryoko. You make it sound so dramatic. I'm just going to see what's what. RYOKO: (concerned) But, Tenchi. They could be doing all kinds of crazy female things in there! TENCHI: (rolling his eyes) I think I'll take my chances. 17 INT. KITCHEN Tenchi enters and is immediately attacked by Misaki. MISAKI: Tenchi! TENCHI: (grim with embarrassment) Hello, Ms. Misaki. (turning to Funaho) Hello, again. Funaho pleasantly nods. Ryo-Ohki appears in humanoid form, holding a couple of carrots. Sasami gasps and glares at Ryo-Ohki. SASAMI: Ryo-Ohki! Did you just take my carrots? RYO-OHKI: Miya? Ayeka chuckles, as Misaki continues to hug Tenchi. MISAKI: We missed you so much, Tenchi. TENCHI: Geez, you saw me just this morning. Ryo-Ohki offers Sasami the uneaten carrot. RYO-OHKI: Miya miya. SASAMI: It's okay, Ryo-Ohki. But, next time, ask. RYO-OHKI: Miya. Azusa enters, flanked by Azaka and Kamidake. AZUSA: (flinching in revulsion) Ahem! Misaki glances around, then continues to hug Tenchi. Ayeka chuckles for a moment, then stiffens to attention. AYEKA: Father! Funaho turns and sighs deeply, folding her arms. Azusa's eye twiches for a few moments, then he turns to Ayeka. AZUSA: Ayeka, we're leaving! Come along! Ayeka takes a step back, then bows. AYEKA: Father, you know my desire. AZUSA: (softly) Ayeka, you are being foolish. Reconsider. It was not your desire that brought you here. It was your abandonment of your duty. AYEKA: Yes, but that is what keeps me here. AZUSA: (grim) I did not come here for an argument. My mind is made up. Even if we must deceive our own subjects, it is better that we prove the loyalty of the crown princess than allow envious slander to continue to wound our good name. Tenchi politely pulls away from Misaki and looks questioningly at the emperor. TENCHI: Your Majesty? Excuse my ignorance, but how is the family being slandered? Azusa scowls and folds his arms, narrowing his eyes at Tenchi. Funaho quickly interrupts. FUNAHO: Forgive him, my Lord. Tenchi is very naive in the ways of the royal house. (turning to Tenchi) Tenchi, you remember how I mentioned the many rumors regarding you? Just imagine how many there are regarding Ayeka and Sasami. Tenchi gapes in comprehension. FUNAHO: (glancing at Azusa) It would foolish of us to accept or reject them without due consideration. AZUSA: (clears his throat and turns away) Well, then. That being the case-- Ryo-Ohki tugs on Misaki's dress, and Misaki looks down, curiously. RYO-OHKI: Miya! Miya miya miya? MISAKI: Oh, how adorable! Misaki picks up Ryo-Ohki and hugs her, letting Tenchi go, and earning a grunt of annoyance from Ryo-Ohki. AZUSA: As I was saying-- MISAKI: (smoothly interrupting) Is that true, Ryo-Ohki? RYO-OHKI: Miya! Funaho glares curiously at Ryo-Ohki, while Misaki's eyes light up with delight. Misaki hugs Ryo-Ohki again, while explaining. MISAKI: Tenchi! This is so wonderful! I didn't know about this! When did you and Ayeka get engaged? AZUSA: Now, then-- (shocked) What is this?! TENCHI: (chuckling nervously) There must be some kind of misunderstanding. AYEKA: (calm and a little smug) Not at all. Everyone heard you. You said you always thought highly of me, and that you'd really hate to see me leave. Your exact words, as I recall. AZUSA: (outraged) Is this true?! TENCHI: (scratching his head) Well, yeah-- FUNAHO: (musing) Interesting. AYEKA: (looking away, shyly) Then he proposed to me. It was very romantic. Tell them, Sasami. You were there. SASAMI: (somewhat sheepish as well as mortified) You expect me to repeat all that? Azusa starts fuming as Ryoko appears. RYOKO: Oh, shut up, Princess! It was all just a silly gag that Yosho thought up. Tenchi didn't mean a word of it. You tell them, Tenchi. TENCHI: Ryoko, I don't think this is the time-- AYEKA: You stay out of this, Ryoko! (turning to Azusa) Father, no matter the circumstances, I have to respect sincere grounds for a proposal. Technically, Tenchi is my fiance, now, and I can't really be expected to leave. RYOKO: What?! That's ridiculous! You've obviously lost your mind. TENCHI: Ryoko-- RYOKO: (turning to Tenchi) What? TENCHI: Stop being difficult, Ryoko. This is just between Ayeka and her father. RYOKO: (surprised) I'm being difficult? TENCHI: (sullen but firm) Yeah, you are. AZUSA: (furious) Everybody just be quiet! I need to think about this. RYOKO: (annoyed) But Tenchi-- TENCHI: (grim) Geez, Ryoko. Calm down. Ryoko vanishes in a huff, as Azusa turns his glare back toward Tenchi. AZUSA: Okay, boy. You can have your way. Keep my daughter here. (turning to Ayeka) Ayeka, I accept your explanation, and I give you leave to stay here... Ayeka looks briefly pleased. AZUSA: But, only under one condition! Tenchi must prove to me that he really is your fiance! AYEKA: Prove it? AZUSA: Is there no room for doubt?! AYEKA: (looking down, embarrassed) I'm ashamed to admit it, but yes. FUNAHO: (smoothly interrupting again) My Lord, I would suggest something immediately useful--something not too difficult, considering how inexperienced Tenchi is. TENCHI: (sighing, looking upward, vaguely) Damn. AZUSA: (turning to Tenchi) Is this a problem for you, boy? TENCHI: (briefly confused, then firm) No, your Majesty. You just set the task. AZUSA: (nods) Yes. In that case, I'm going to make you my technical ambassador in the ancient fortress. And, as of now, that is a very important duty--in that I have just declared the ownership of all rights to technology that originates thereof. Misaki frowns, thoughtful. AZUSA: (smiling) Your assignment is to secure my holdings and to seal away all future endeavors into the current projects. AYEKA: (cringing) That's an awfully big task, Father. Someone should help. Azusa rolls his eyes for a moment, then shrugs. AZUSA: It makes no difference to me. If he chooses, he may have help--but only one of you. That should settle the matter. Azusa leaves, and Ayeka summons Azaka and Kamidake, as Ryoko reappears. AYEKA: I'm ready. RYOKO: (snorting) Yeah, right. If you want someone you can rely on, there's really only one choice, anyway. AYEKA: (to Ryoko) I thought you were still off, pouting somewhere. RYOKO: I know better than to get involved in Juraian politics. But this is a situation. Princesses don't know the first thing about these things. Tenchi glances at Misaki and Funaho, and they smile-- Funaho gives a very knowing smile. TENCHI: (to Ryo-Ohki) Okay, girl. It's probably best for me to get going, now. RYO-OHKI: Miya? Tenchi holds out his hand. TENCHI: That's right. Let's go, Ryo-Ohki. Tenchi leaves with Ryo-Ohki. AYEKA: (annoyed) Wait! Oh, this is so humiliating! RYOKO: (feigning indifference) I don't care. This is all so stupid! I hope he fails. Funaho and Misaki help Sasami--who looks dizzy with shock. 18 EXT. NEAR STRANGE CAVE Tenchi and Ryo-Ohki approach a mob of uniformed officers--some Galaxy Police, some Juraian, some rangers, and some that are impossible to identify. One of the officers accompanies Tenchi, as Tenchi points out two other people--seemingly at random. 19 INT. FORTRESS ENTRANCE Tenchi and Ryo-Ohki approach another small mob of uniformed people, Mihoshi and Kilaro trailing shortly behind. TENCHI: What a mess! How did all this happen? KILARO: I think there were pirates in here, a year or two ago. TENCHI: I mean, all these people. Who are they all? KILARO: Maybe you should ask them. TENCHI: (sighing, suddenly grim) No, that's no good. We're just going in. Come on. 20 EXT. MASAKI HOUSE Azusa and Misaki are out front, being joined by Funaho and Ayeka. MISAKI: I think this is a brilliant idea! AZUSA: You do? Funaho stands next to Azusa on the other side as Misaki. FUNAHO: I agree, my Lord. This gives young Tenchi a wonderful opportunity to practice his administrative skills. AYEKA: (brimming with impurtinence) Ah, yes. Valuable training for becoming emperor himself, one day. AZUSA: (smirking) Well, we'll just see about all that. 21 INT. DINGY ROOM A huge room, lined with scattered debris and tents, with various scruffy-looking robed individuals--all clustered into a small mob. Tenchi, Ryo-Ohki, Mihoshi, and Kilaro enter and look around. TENCHI: (to Mihoshi) This is it? MIHOSHI: Jaithepios said this was their main camp. TENCHI: It looks temporary. MIHOSHI: They all seemed to know a lot about us. He told me about a duel Ayeka had had with one of the guardians. TENCHI: (a little surprised) When did this happen? MIHOSHI: (pointing) There he is. (to Tenchi) Oh, I don't remember. Uh... About a year ago, I think. (to the familiar figure dressed in a monk's robes) Hello! They stop right next to a small tent where the familiar figure is standing. JAITHEPIOS: Mihoshi? It's good to see you again. MIHOSHI: I'm glad, too. JAITHEPIOS: (to Tenchi) Honored one. (to Ryo- Ohki) Hello. RYO-OHKI: Miya! TENCHI: (smiling) Hello. JAITHEPIOS: (pondering) Who's this man in diplomatic clothes? KILARO: (smiling wryly) Just a courier from Beta, Sir. Nobody important. Tenchi pats Kilaro on the shoulder. TENCHI: My dad likes him, so he can't be all bad. JAITHEPIOS: (gesturing toward the tent) Well, in that case, I should invite you and your friends inside. We can have a nice little palaver. 22 INT. KITCHEN Funaho returns to the kitchen, starting to collect the boxes again, when she notices Sasami. Sasami flinches and stops staring--continuing to prepare food. FUNAHO: (VO) Odd. (to Sasami) I see supper is coming along, nicely. SASAMI: I'm sorry, but I guess I'm the only one who can cook around here. FUNAHO: It's nothing to be sorry about, Sasami. It's a pleasure to cook for the ones you love, isn't it? SASAMI: (smiling, then sighing) Yeah. But... Funaho is suddenly curious, standing next to Sasami to speak softer. FUNAHO: I'm the one who's sorry, Sasami. This must be very hard for you--I mean, having to see Ayeka in all this distress. Sasami turns to Funaho, then turns to the cutting board again. FUNAHO: (narrowing her eyes, VO) There it was again. Normally, Sasami would be upset. Why this malaise? SASAMI: (chopping) She's handled worse than this. 23 INT. TENT (flashback) The alchemist is sitting before a smoky fire, speaking to grown-up Sasami. ALCHEMIST: You must tread very lightly. 24 INT. KITCHEN Sasami stops for a moment, then continues. SASAMI: Father must have lost his mind, to treat Tenchi this way. Funaho makes a quick double-take, then frowns. FUNAHO: What do you mean, Sasami? Sasami chops a little louder, casually explaining. SASAMI: Tenchi has been a perfect gentleman, and Father rewards him by calling him a liar, then throws him to the wolves. FUNAHO: (smiling, reassuring) It's nothing, Sasami. Tenchi's much more mature, now. (pausing for a moment) How old are you, Sasami? SASAMI: (stops to think) I'm... uh... Funaho turns and collects the boxes. FUNAHO: You're already about half Tenchi's age-- at least, in appearance. Maybe more. You should try growing some more before you decide what's insane. Funaho hands a box to Sasami, and Sasami takes it. FUNAHO: Before I forget, this one was meant for you--that is, if you're still young enough to appreciate it. Funaho exits with the other boxes. Sasami opens the box and discovers a small necklace with a rattle on the end. 25 INT. TENT A large tent, well-decorated and furnished--a large table at one end, and a nice desk at the other end. Tenchi, Jaithepios and the others are sitting at the table. Several scrolls are laying on the table, and Jaithepios has a habit of absently rolling and unrolling one of them. KILARO: I guess what we're saying is, we're missing some valuable data--here or in the emperor's imagination. TENCHI: I'm sure he didn't just dream up some of this technology. Ayeka and I experienced something like a teleportation just a while back. MIHOSHI: And there was that weird vortex. TENCHI: Washu called it a dimensional vortex. I remember that. JAITHEPIOS: So, your emperor wants to assume control of this fortress? TENCHI: Something like that. JAITHEPIOS: I don't understand. The fortress is not in his jurisdiction, is it? TENCHI: (puzzling) I don't know. KILARO: (casual) The planet is. In fact, it's an isolated colony, so nobody else can even claim jurisdiction. (glancing at Mihoshi) Not even the Galaxy Police. JAITHEPIOS: (concluding) I see. He's claiming the entrance. Well, we have no need of the entrance, anyway. It's just a conduit, really. Many other civilizations have made claim to it. Tenchi scratches his head, a little flustered, as Mihoshi leans forward. MIHOSHI: Wow! Really? JAITHEPIOS: Oh, yeah. Most of them don't even realize what the fortress is. TENCHI: Excuse me, Sir, but I don't think the emperor is really interested in the property--just the technology. JAITHEPIOS: Just the technology? You mean, just the engineering? TENCHI: And the science--whatever that amounts to, I suppose. JAITHEPIOS: Is this some kind of joke? Young man, you cannot have math and science. They're just intangible concepts. If you make political claims, they must be to tangible objects--things like property. Now, if he wants to talk about renting-- KILARO: I think what Tenchi means, Sir, is that the emperor wants to make his own entrance--and to make sure that everyone inside knows that it's just to be used by Juraian representatives. JAITHEPIOS: (suddenly understanding) Oh. I see. MIHOSHI: (pleased) So, it's not a problem? Jaithepios looks through one of his scrolls. JAITHEPIOS: Well, no--it really shouldn't be. It's not in my authority, of course, but if the emperor of Jurai wishes it, then... TENCHI: (smiling) Thank you very much, Sir. This is a relief. Kilaro looks at Tenchi, a little suspicious. KILARO: We appreciate this. 26 INT. MAIN HALL Ayeka is sitting at a sofa, knitting. Ryoko is lying on a support beam, reading a book. She looks down, then appears next to Ayeka. RYOKO: Aren't you worried, Princess? AYEKA: Why should I be? RYOKO: You don't actually expect Tenchi to succeed, do you? AYEKA: (smirking) My, what a sense of humor you have, Ryoko. Tenchi, fail? (feigning laughter) RYOKO: (puzzling) You obviously don't know Tenchi like I do. Ayeka puts down her knitting. AYEKA: Just between you and me, Ryoko, it hardly matters. If Tenchi fails, then he'll still be beholden to me, anyway. If he succeeds, so much the better for me! (genuinely laughing) Ryoko is taken aback for a few moments, then vanishes. Misaki and Funaho nervously look in, as Ayeka continues cackling. AYEKA: And if Ryoko interferes, that's just icing on the cake! FUNAHO: Oh my... MISAKI: She becomes more like darling Emperor every day. FUNAHO: Now, that's not funny. 27 INT. HALLWAY A hallway stretches far in each direction, several doorways line the hallway on each side. Tenchi and the others are walking toward the center and stop by one door. TENCHI: Strange. I think I remember this one. KILARO: You've been here before? TENCHI: Yeah, but that was years ago. You remember this, Mihoshi? MIHOSHI: (scowling) Don't remind me. KILARO: Got lost, huh? Tenchi starts chuckling, nervously. MIHOSHI: I got into a fight. Kilaro opens the door, and Tenchi goes in. KILARO: Well, that explains it all. 28 INT. CONTROL ROOM At the center of the room is a mass of wiring, and in one corner, there is a few small metal boxes with slots and switches. A couple of lights in the boxes start blinking. Along the walls are lights and compartments (and little stubs where there used to be buttons). TENCHI: Boy, there was some serious renovating here, since I was here last. A short figure in a strange uniform appears and looks at Tenchi questioningly, as Kilaro, Ryo-Ohki and Mihoshi enter the room. FIGURE: Visitors again? Okay, who sent you? Tenchi takes out a small scroll and gestures with it. TENCHI: I've been sent here by Jaithepios. He said to talk to the security commander about this demand that the emperor made. FIGURE: Security commander? Interesting. Let me see that. Tenchi hands over the scroll, and the figure chuckles. FIGURE: This is a pretty tall order. We're going to have to make some serious renovations, indeed. TENCHI: (frowning) If you don't mind, I'd like to know where the security commander is. FIGURE: (briefly confused, then smiling) That's me, actually. And, don't worry. The emperor's wish is my command. Kilaro leans next to Tenchi. KILARO: You see? No problem. TENCHI: Weren't you the one who kept saying that this mission was totally impossible? KILARO: Me? No way! It must have been the girl. Mihoshi glares at Kilaro, annoyed, and Tenchi rolls his eyes. 29 INT. MAIN HALL Ayeka stops knitting, and looks up--concern spreading across her face. She gets up and exits. Sasami enters a moment later. SASAMI: Supper's finished! (looking around) Geez! 30 EXT. NEARBY STREAM Yosho is lying in a field of grass, right next to a stream--his line tied off to a nearby tree trunk. YOSHO: (VO) Well, if I'm right, there should be a huge explosion just about-- 31 EXT. NEARBY HILLS A titanic explosion goes off, taking most of the strange cave with it. 32 EXT. NEARBY STREAM Yosho sits up, looking around at the huge cloud of dust, rising into the air--adjusting his glasses. YOSHO: Right on schedule. 33 INT. HALLWAY Tenchi and the others are still walking down the hallway, when Ryoko appears. She seems about to say something, when a huge explosion occurs off camera, and the ground shakes. MIHOSHI: Whoa! RYO-OHKI: Miya! RYOKO: No kidding, Ryo-Ohki! Why did you think I was here? Tenchi gets his balance back. TENCHI: Don't tell me you were worried, Ryoko. RYOKO: (a little haughty) I was just agreeing with the little rat. Another explosion shakes the hallway, and everyone falls over. KILARO: If she said she had a bad feeling about all this, then I agree, too. 34 EXT. MASAKI HOUSE Funaho and Misaki are standing out front, as Yosho approaches from a side path. Another, smaller explosion goes up from the area of the fortress. MISAKI: Oh! FUNAHO: (VO) I see, now. Tenchi and Yosho were having premonitions. 35 INT. HALLWAY Ryoko disappears briefly, then reappears. RYOKO: There doesn't seem to be a way out. MIHOSHI: Oh, no! There has to be! TENCHI: You sure? This seems like an awfully extreme way to put up a new entrance. KILARO: Actually, kid, this makes perfect sense. In order to put a new entrance in, you have to blast away the old one. RYOKO: We can't just sit around waiting for the new one. RYO-OHKI: Miya! RYOKO: (getting an idea) Ryo-Ohki! RYO-OHKI: (worried) Miya? Ryoko kneels down next to Ryo-Ohki--very friendly. RYOKO: You can fly right through subspace, right? RYO-OHKI: (confused) Miya miya. RYOKO: (snarling) I know that. But you have navigation systems. I'm not powerful enough to scope it out properly. Ryo-Ohki: (reluctant) Miya... Tenchi leans down next to Ryo-Ohki, as Ryoko is getting frustrated. TENCHI: Ryo-Ohki, can you get us back? RYO-OHKI: (brightly) Miya! (softly) Miya... TENCHI: Well, we'll have lots of carrots when we get back, you know. RYOKO: Of course! RYO-OHKI: Miya! 36 EXT. NEAR RUINS OF ENTRANCE Ryo-Ohki bursts upward into the sky, as Tenchi, Mihoshi and Kilaro flicker and appear at the ground. Ryoko appears a moment later, hovering just behind Tenchi. MIHOSHI: Whoa! KILARO: That explosion really did a number on this place. TENCHI: I'm just glad nobody was around when it went off... I hope nobody was around when it did. RYOKO: You worry too much, Tenchi. I'm sure they wouldn't let anybody get hurt. MIHOSHI: (frowning) I don't know, Ryoko. That security commander didn't wait at all, I think. KILARO: (scratching his head) We'd better get a move on, before they decide to clear out another section. TENCHI: (nodding) Good idea. Tenchi and the others are walking (Ryoko floating), as Kilaro catches up to Tenchi. KILARO: That's some friend you've got. TENCHI: Huh? KILARO: The cabbit-creature. Turns into a spaceship and flies right through subspace, too. Ryo-Ohki appears a moment later in cabbit-form, and Tenchi picks her up. TENCHI: She's great. I can always count on my friends, you know. RYOKO: Unlike certain princesses. TENCHI: Now, now, Ryoko. Ayeka can't help it if she never does anything useful. KILARO: I've never flown through subspace before. TENCHI: So, what do you think? KILARO: Disappointing. I thought it would be weirder--like being teleported. TENCHI: You've been teleported before? KILARO: I'm still trying to figure out how Ryo- Ohki could find the entrance here so fast. MIHOSHI: (catching up) Didn't Ryoko say there was a secret entrance here? Tenchi gets a word just ahead of Ryoko. TENCHI: Oh, yeah. A secret entrance through subspace. There was still a piece of that left. Ryoko is annoyed for a moment, then suddenly thoughtful. RYOKO: The strange thing is, that entrance was pretty well hidden--even in subspace. Someone must have left it activated. AYEKA: (OC) Or someone leaped into it during an explosion. Tenchi cringes, as Ayeka emerges, covered with dirt and ashes--looking about as ticked-off as possible. She glares at Tenchi for a moment. AYEKA: Never useful, am I? Ayeka marches off, as the others stare after her. RYOKO: (chuckling) I'm sorry. I was totally wrong about her. She's great! Ryoko falls over laughing. MIHOSHI: Wow! How embarrassing! KILARO: Well, mystery solved. Time to eat. TENCHI: Eat. Yeah. Good luck on that. 37 EXT. MASAKI SHRINE Evening shades through the trees. 38 EXT. SHRINE STEPS Yosho is sitting with Funaho again. FUNAHO: I see you like to watch the sunset, as well. YOSHO: I like to eat with good company. The outdoors is usually pleasant enough. (gestures with a small dish) Some fish, perhaps? FUNAHO: No, thank you. I'm just going to be leaving, soon. The king will want to celebrate, and there's sure to be a feast. I would not want to spoil it. YOSHO: (surprised) Celebrate? So, Tenchi succeeded? FUNAHO: (a little patronizing) Of course, he did-- but you already knew he would. The question is, can you accept it? YOSHO: (somewhat amused) Me? FUNAHO: (smiling, knowingly) I know. Funaho stands, and Yosho gets up--still holding the dish. FUNAHO: I tried to warn you, but-- YOSHO: So, you weren't just tricking me into getting out of the way? FUNAHO: No. YOSHO: Oh, I see. There's more to this than just family loyalty. FUNAHO: (hesitant) Ayeka sends her thanks. YOSHO: Oh. Please be sure to give her mine. Funaho narrows her eyes and smiles wryly. FUNAHO: Now, Yosho. Don't tease your mother like that. You know very well that she'll be back here again, anyway. YOSHO: (blankly confused) I do? THE END