Before you begin this the final part of Gold & Silver I wish you to know ahead of time that this has been an incredible time. I have appreciated all of the comments I have received and hope that this shall always be regarded as one of the leading pieces of Mihoshi fan fiction. Part 6 is written in a unique "shifting" perspective that I am experimenting with. Anytime you see this, "()" the viewpoint has shifted to Mihoshi's thoughts. Occasionally, you may also come across this symbol during Mihoshi's perspective, **, time has reverted from the setting of the story (ten years hence from part 5) to a flashback that will phase from Mihoshi's perspective to a third person viewpoint. When returning to the third person at the present time, the || symbol will be used. Confused? I hope not. But all should go well when the story is read. So now, enjoy the final chapter in this saga of two hearts' quest, Gold & Silver, Part 6: Tarnished Silver Through marble halls and jewel studded arches echo the graceful saddened footsteps of a lone figure. Her lovely visage is without mirth or joy as she views her troops standing at their ready. They present arms to her and offer reverent condolences to this, the one they protect with their very lives. Their breath is stolen from their bodies as the vision of golden curls and satin robes that are her glides past them, thanking them for their assistance in the futile effort to sustain her hope in the infinitesimal chances of the cosmos. None tell her of the possibility of failure in her search. Indeed, they themselves have hope beyond hope that they will be successful, but for now there is only her. She is the Archduchess Mihoshi Milodon and she is mourning her husband. () It all seems to have ended so suddenly. No, it isn't really ended; it's just sort of paused right now. I just have to wonder why it had to happen. Trinth was so happy when we first arrived. But no one can be happy forever, I suppose. It was so nice when we arrived on Calaban, though. I remember when the Gilded Talon landed and I saw the Great Hall for the first time. Oh, the Great Hall, the palace of the Milodons for eons and now my home. Trinth, Sasami and I stood upon the balcony overlooking the city of Ghechana, capitol of Calaban, and the Calab people saw me for the first time. The way Trinth introduced us was so wonderful, too. He said **Ten years ago** "People of Calaban, my good people, children of the great seas of this wondrous planet, my travels have taken me from you for ages now. Many of you wished my return would hasten. Now, let your own eyes behold the bounty that my quest has produced. Please, Calabs, greet your Archduchesses, Lady Sasami of Jurai and Lady Mihoshi of Cyrn." With a flourish, Trinth finished his speech and his wives stepped out of the eaves of the balcony and into the sunlight of Calaban's day. The crowds cheered with all of their might, releasing a rapturous symphony of joyous shouting. "Isn't it the most incredible thing you've ever seen, Mihoshi?" Sasami said happily as she waved to the people. "I didn't think they would be this pleased with us. After all, aren't we outsiders to them?" "I know, it's so amazing that they aren't upset over you taking two alien brides, Trinth." Mihoshi replied. Their husband chuckled and put his an arm around each of their waists. "My dears, they understand but two things, we are in love and you are beautiful." He laughed and spread his arms as if embracing the crowds, then turned, arms outstretched, to his wives. "All Calabs consider love and beauty to override all." He laughed happily as Mihoshi and Sasami hugged him tightly. "Besides, I would have given up any number of kingdoms for the pair of you." || The Archduchess continued to wander through the massive palace. She couldn't help but feel a bit intimidated by the silence of the corridors. It just didn't seem right to her that such a beautiful place should be so somber. () The halls always rang with laughter when Trinth had first returned. Dignitaries and aristocrats gathered to hear of his adventures. Trinth was always happy to tell a story or two. And when Baron Teylono would visit, unbridled chaos would reign. At least, until Sasami and I reminded the men that they were setting an example for how Azure should rule. Oh, Azure. All will know your name very soon. You are Trinth and Sasami's daughter, the daughter who will rule over four full empires. Jurai, Calaban, Cyrn, and Lucidia will all fall under her rule. She will have the whole of the empire as her kingdom. It's so wonderful. But Azure doesn't realize this. Right now, her seven-year old mind only wonders when her father will return and when her godfather, Atore, will visit again. I think I'll stop in the nursery to see how Azure and Sasami are doing. || Mihoshi slowly opened the door to the nursery where she found her 'sister' Sasami at play with her young daughter. Sasami smiled as the blonde entered the room, leaving her escort outside. "How goes the search, Mihoshi?" Sasami asked solemnly as she rose from the chair from whence she had been reading to her daughter from. "Same news as ever. There was an unconfirmed sighting of the Talon near the Beta moon of Iethra. I hope it turns out to be him." "As do I, dear sister." Sasami replied. One who had known the Juraiin woman when she had been a young princess could scarcely recognize her now. She had matured rapidly after donning Tsunami's form. She wore a thoughtful and serene expression that many attributed to having the wisdom of both a goddess and a mother. Sasami had spent much of her time with Azure, teaching the girl about how to rule a vast empire. Things like protocol and diplomacy had been instilled into Azure's mind at a very young age. It was for the best that Sasami taught her these lessons, Mihoshi knew nothing of how to be a noble, nor did she truly wish to be one. The title of Archduchess meant nothing to her. What mattered was that she was Trinth's wife. Whatever else she wasn't would never change that. **Eight years ago** "Beloved, why do you weep?" Trinth asked Mihoshi as she sat in his study, crying. "Washu told me about why Sasami is pregnant and I'm not." The blonde sniffled. She looked towards Trinth as he slowly walked towards her. He didn't seem as spry as he was when he had first arrived on Calaban, but then, his schedule didn't allow for much time to practice combat technique, either. He was leaned over to her, balancing against his cane to keep from tumbling atop her. "M'lady, I too wish we could have a child together, but biology simply won't allow it." Trinth said in a soft tone as he brushed her cheek. "I know my immune system is far more potent than yours. That's why you can't impregnate me. It just isn't fair." Mihoshi said weakly. "I overheard some of the bureaucrats yesterday. They were talking about how I may lose my place in the royal family if I bore no children." Mihoshi buried her face in Trinth's cloak as her tears increased. "Trinth, please don't turn me away if I can't have a baby." The Archduke was incensed by what his wife had told him. Not but two years into his wives' rule and already those beneath him were speaking of treachery and stature between the two women. He knelt down to eye level with Mihoshi and gazed into her eyes. "My dear sweet Mihoshi." He spoke gently. "Nothing shall ever change between us. Child or no child, you will always be my wife. Those who speak of you losing your standing know nothing of the true workings of this noble house. The Falcon oversees all who are beneath his wings. Dry your tears, M'lady, you are my wife for all time and my Duchess beside me, as is Sasami." Trinth clasped her hand in his and kissed her sweetly on her lips. "Always remember, you and Sasami are equals in my heart. Not one thing in this universe could change that." || "Mother, what are you thinking about?" a small, but powerfully feminine voice asked Mihoshi. The Archduchess looked down to see Azure staring up at her. The little girl was very pretty. She wore the gowns of royalty well, a sure sign of her impending greatness. Her dark blue hair and even darker blue eyes were lovely to look at and her smile was friendly, if a little arrogant and mischievous, just like her father's. Truly, Azure was going to be a radiant beauty when she was older. "Oh, Azure I was just thinking about your father." Mihoshi said in a voice that transmitted none of her melancholy. "He will be back in time for my birthday, will he not?" Azure asked impetuously. Tapping her foot as she awaited an answer. "Now, now, Azure." Sasami said firmly. "What have we talked about when asking questions of people?" "Only demand answers from delegates, bureaucrats, and soldiers. One is being impolite if doing otherwise." The little girl stated reluctantly to her mother. "Good then. Now, let us leave Mihoshi in peace while we continue our lesson in ancient Lucidian myth." Sasami said to her daughter as Mihoshi turned to leave. The Cyrnian woman looked over her shoulder at her sister and niece as they opened the tome Atore had presented the family with. () They're so happy together. It's good for Sasami that she has Azure to help cope with Trinth's disappearance. So few people can truly help us with not having him around. My escort is certainly of no help. He's a dutiful, but uninspired, servant who sees to little more than my safety. Now Lacent and Kaitan, they were truly great men. || The Archduchess passes underneath the archway that leads out to the gardens of Milodon Hall. As she walks past, she can't help but look to her sides in hope that one of her fallen escorts might be there to take her from the soulless fool that stood by her side. () Lacent and Kaitan, I miss those two so. Trinth knew very well that you were a perfect pair to guard Sasami and I. They were members of the Calab Royal Guard's elite. Trinth personally selected them as our escorts. It was so stunning when we first met them. **six years ago** "We are here to serve you, our blessed Archduchesses. Forever may you reign." So did the prostrated guardsmen speak in earnest reverence. Trinth introduced them as Lacent Cavinto and Kaitan Alysdayn. "Why are these two necessary, Trinth?" Sasami asked as she circled the taller, red haired Lacent. "Surely the risk of assassination is not that high." "Dearheart, these two are for your protection when I am not about. Humor my frazzled nerves, if you will." Her husband said playfully. "But, what'll we do if we don't need them?" Mihoshi asked as she studied black- haired Kaitan. "Your grace, we are here but for your pleasure and well-being. Allow us to serve you in any capacity." Lacent spoke quickly. His countenance soon turned to horror and he knelt quickly at Trinth's feet. "Excellency, forgive me for speaking without being addressed. It was not my place." Trinth shook his head and chuckled. "No harm done, young man. Take your post with your fellow guardsman. I must go rest before the conference with Sir Weitrik of the High Council." Trinth bowed and slowly walked down to his chambers. His reliance upon his cane for balance had increased. That and he had begun to speak less and sleep more. In fact, Mihoshi had seen him breathing heavily at the tops of staircases. She resolved to ask him about it later, for now, she had a new escort to speak with. "So, how are you today, Lacent?" Mihoshi asked mildly of the dark-haired Calab guard before her. "I fear my heart shall erupt with joy at the honorable position His Excellency has given me." He replied reverently. "Lacent. Kaitan." Sasami started, addressing each of them in turn. They both rose and directed their undivided attention to her. "Yes, Your Worshipfulness." They replied in unison. "I see that you are both men of high caliber and good character. Lady Mihoshi and I are very pleased to have you as our personal escorts." Mihoshi nodded her agreement. "That's right, I think we'll become good friends in time, too." The Cyrnian woman added quickly. A gasp and a loud thud were the response she received for her trouble. Lacent had fainted dead away. "I apologize, Your Grace. He meant no disrespect." Kaitan said very plainly as he picked up his unconscious partner. "I believe it has just struck him that we are serving the two most powerful and beautiful women in the Empire. It is enough to give any man a pause." () And so I met Lacent and Kaitan. They were so devoted to Sasami and I. We soon found that they were talented far beyond mere guardians. Lacent was sort of an artist. He wrote songs and poems and would often sit in the garden above where we would sit and play us dirges upon his guitar. He sang of love and devotion and merry times and joy. I cared a lot for Lacent. I still remember one poem he wrote for me. It went "I seek and I find with Falcon's speed and Falcon's mind that none of Elysium's song and wine could ever produce beauty such as thine." Pretty, isn't it? He said he wrote it especially for me and then quickly added 'but I believe that Lady Sasami is also incredibly beautiful as well'. He was always very careful with his words. Never insulting or crude, I think Lacent should have been a bard, not a soldier. As for Kaitan, you'd never guess it by looking at his two and a half meter tall, heavily muscled body but he was actually a dancer and a chef before he decided to join the Royal Guard. Kaitan was the son of a wealthy merchant in Ghechana who owned the shipyards that had built the Gilded Talon. As a member of the Alysdayn family, he was a very privileged person and studied a great deal of many things. If he had ever talked more than his usual one or two insightful sentences at a stretch I think he would have been a great philosopher. The other amazing thing was how well he cooked. Kaitan would serve Sasami and I incredible dishes. The way he combined ingredients was totally indescribable. Of course, my favorite is still Trinth's blueberry waffles. I could live off of those forever and ever. Oh Trinth. I miss your waffles. I miss you. The four of us, Sasami, our escorts, and myself would spend afternoons out in the gardens. And when Azure was old enough, she started joining us outside. Occasionally, Trinth would escape from his multitudes of meetings and duties and we'd all be together. Those times were so rare, though. Trinth was being run ragged by the bureaucrats. There were times when he wouldn't sleep for days on end. It was really getting to him. I was really worried about him sometimes. He didn't want me to worry about him. He always said that this was normal procedure and that things would settle down eventually. That's why I always treasured the times when he wasn't working or resting. **Four years ago** "Your Grace! Your Grace!" a familiar, overly emotive voice called from behind her. Mihoshi spun around to see her escort, Lacent, running up the path towards her. "Your Grace, it is unwise to wander away unguarded like that. I would kill myself if so much as one hair upon your head was misplaced by the actions of some ill-minded braggart." "Don't worry so, Lacent." Mihoshi said playfully. "I can manage walking to a nice spot for some sunbathing myself." The guard's face was ashen at these words. "Your Grace? Your intentions were to bare yourself to the eyes of these." he lowered his voice and looked around at the other, lesser, guards in the garden, "unworthy fellows?" Mihoshi chuckled and pointed behind Lacent. "No, I was going to bare myself to my husband." Lacent spun around to see his Archduke in Bermuda shorts and a polo shirt, grinning from ear to ear. "Your Excellency. I apologize in advance, but you are strangely clad." "I know." Trinth said happily. "That's why Lady Mihoshi and I plan to become un-clad as quickly as possible. You'll see to it that we are undisturbed, won't you my good fellow?" Clapping him on the shoulder, the Archduke bypassed the stunned guard, strode over to his wife and offered her an arm. "Shall we, M'lady?" he asked wittily. "We shall, numerous times." Mihoshi giggled as she and her husband walked down the path towards a small spot Trinth had shown her when they had first arrived. This place was the single one they called their own on all of the palace's grounds. It was a place deep into the expansive gardens that had been left to grow without intervention. It was still wild and untamed, yet it had such raw beauty in its greenery. This was the place that Mihoshi and Trinth came to when it was to be just the pair of them. Their most carnal desires, their most hidden secrets, all were shared at this place. They settled down upon the long grasses that waved incessantly in the breezes of the warm late months of Calaban. Their view is at first the mouth of the Cherdya River flowing out to the Great Sea. No words, no movement, simply them and a long gaze towards the river that is the livelihood of Ghechana. "You love this place, don't you Trinth?" Mihoshi asked softly as she looked to her husband. The man wasn't even looking out to the sea. He nodded slowly without even opening his eyes. It was the first chance Mihoshi had really received to look at her husband as of recent. His frame appeared unchanged, a bit less firm, but no less athletic. A few wrinkles adorned his face, but considering his one and a half thousand years of life, they were of little concern. But then, why was he always so tired? "Trinth, you work a great deal these days. Why is that?" Mihoshi continued. "I spent the last eleven-hundred years as a lecherous scoundrel with no concern whatsoever with what was occurring at my home. Now I am bound to repair what damage my foolish ways have done to this kingdom." Trinth's voice sounded worn and defeated. "I thought the people of Calaban liked you for your adventures. Why are they a problem now?" "There weren't always happy endings to everything I did. Even I made some critical errors in judgment and, a few times, there were things I did that were neither courageous nor noble." Trinth shook his head sadly. He sat up and looked to his wife with an emotion she had not ever seen in his eyes; fear. "I no longer have control, my love. My advisors, they know far too much about what I have done in the past. They lord it over me, speaking to me as if I am an unlearned heathen. Saying I am only fit to make speeches and wear robes, not to wield any sort of actual power. The people, they still hold the Milodon clan in their hearts, but the merchants need their pockets lined and the farmers their fields plowed and if the Milodon nobility cannot do anything to assist this.." Trinth's voice trailed off and he lay back onto the ground. Mihoshi leaned over to him and kissed his furrowed brow. She gently caressed his cheek, brushing it with the back of her hand. "You poor dear." She whispered. "You can't go on like this. You need to rest. Please, tell them they ask too much of you." Trinth merely looked away from her. Mihoshi laid her head over Trinth's heart and slumped her body over his. "Azure is growing up quickly." She said, trying to change the subject. "Yes, soon she will be the sovereign of all four of the Empire's superpowers. Lucidia, Jurai, Cyrn, Calaban, all of those are to be in her name." Trinth replied, closing his arms around Mihoshi. He felt her body shaking very slightly within his embrace. "Beloved, you are trembling." "I am afraid." "What of?" "What the future will hold." Silently, Trinth agreed. In another corner of the gardens, Lady Sasami was enjoying the company of her escorts and her daughter. Also nearby were three of her newfound family's closest members; her half-sister, Duchess Trinay Milodon, Baron Atore Teylono, Azure's newlywed Godfather and his wife, the newly crowned Baroness, Washu Teylono- Hakubi. It still gave her a chuckle to think of how everyone was now linked. Tenchi, Ayeka, and Ryoko, all declared their love for each other after an all night binge on a bottle of very pricey champagne nine years ago. Washu is Ryoko's mother, so she is her mother-in-law and now that Atore and Washu wed after a whirlwind romance that practically bankrupted the Baron, Teylono was her father-in-law. Mihoshi had been her sister for years now, as had Trinay. And the only offspring to have been borne of this maddened familial horde was her little Azure. One big family, that was the perfect way to describe the whole lot of them. "Your Worshipfulness?" she heard Lacent's light lilting voice call. Sasami looked over to him. The guard was sitting on the ledge of the garden's central fountain. "Your Worshipfulness, might I trouble you with the queries of a far lesser mind?" he asked. Sasami nodded and took a seat by the fountain alongside the Calab guard. "So, what is it you need, Lacent?" she asked kindly. "I am suffering from a malady of the soul, my Duchess. It pains me to think of it, yet I must face it with every waking moment." Lacent said sadly. "I know not how to approach this most anguished state. And so, I bring my troubles to you, my most wise Duchess." "What troubles may those be, Sir Lacent?" Sasami asked lightly. She was intrigued by this chance to speak personally to her guard. "The Lady Azure, she will ascend to the throne within my lifetime, will she not?" He asked worriedly. "I believe so. You Calabs do lead long lives, generally speaking." "Then, she will need guards worthy of her status, guards who can defend her from all evils and terrors so that her reign will outstrip their lives. Am I correct in thinking this, Your Worshipfulness?" "I should think so. A person with her power may have many enemies." "Lady Sasami?" Lacent stated lowly. The Juraiin Duchess was startled by his use of her given name instead of a reverent title. "Am I worthy of the chance to defend your daughter, the Lady Azure?" The guard's frame seemed to slump as he asked the question. It was apparent that he was deeply troubled by it indeed. She placed her hands upon his shoulders and kissed his forehead. The guard practically jumped out of his skin as she did this. His gaze met hers, questioning the action she had just took. "My dear Lacent," she said warmly. "I can think of no other person I could trust or wish for more to protect my daughter than you. I look forward to seeing you and Kaitan at Azure's side when the time comes." The knight brightened at his ruler's assurances. He called to his partner. "Kaitan! We are to defend Azure! So it has been spoken by Archduchess Sasami herself!" he shouted joyously. The burly Kaitan shut his eyes and bowed deeply in Sasami's direction. "Truly, I was blessed by the Falcon upon my birth for never did I believe that my purpose in this life would be of such great value." He spoke solemnly. "Those two certainly take their job far too seriously." Atore whispered to his wife as they stood arm in arm at the garden's center archway. "I should bring them along to spend a day or ten wine drinking and womanizing." Washu chuckled and patted her husband on the head. "A good idea for you, honey, but those two are in bliss right now." Washu reminded the Lucidian. "After all, to them, defending the Milodon Household is a privilege given by the Falcon itself. A holy calling, as it was." She cackled and pushed his shoulder. "Anyway, what are you doing considering wine and women after all I give you at night." The Baron, caught off guard by his wife's move, tripped over his cloak and sprawled onto the grass. But his reflexes were quick enough to catch her by the waist pulling her down onto the turf with him. "The battle is mine." He crowed delightfully as his petite wife's body fell atop his. The redhead smiled devilishly and played with a lock of his jet-black hair. "And to the victor go the spoils." She added coyly. "Ahem, Atore. Washu." Trinay interrupted. Voicing her obvious disapproval at what was about to take place in plain sight of Azure. "A thousand apologies, Duchess Trinay." Atore chuckled suavely as he hugged his wife close to him. "Add mine to that too, dear." Washu laughed. "You know what us newly-weds are like. Just bursting with love at all the seams." () Laughter, I could always count on Washu and Atore for that. Well, laughter and surprises. After all, I was unaware that they even liked each other, let alone that they were in love. As it turned out, Washu spent quite a bit of time with Atore after we left Earth. They didn't really date, more like they met at places and talked. But, somehow, they fell in love. The most interesting thing was the calming effect the Baron had on her. I remember walking in on the pair of them in Washu's lab one time when I was visiting on Earth. They didn't know I was there, but I saw got to see just how they really are together. **Five years ago on Earth** "So, how is the resident scientist today?" Atore asked Washu as he removed his sport coat. "I hope that you haven't encountered anything beyond your powers of comprehension." Washu turned on her cushion and smiled as the Lucidian bent down to offer her an affectionate hug. "Just why a certain Baron is so insistent about his presence." She stated innocently. "Makes me wonder about his interests." "Ah, so you accuse me of impurity of thought?" retorted Teylono. " I have no such inclinations. Is it a crime to think of you as physically stimulating as well as mentally simply because you appear so young and I so old? Such is a byproduct of age, I suppose. But experience can only be bred of maturity and that is what keeps your interest, am I right?" "Well put, honey. Completely wrong, but well put." Washu shook her head as she rose to her feet. "My interest in you is for a completely different reason altogether." "I know." Atore stated with a solemn nod. "I know this is difficult for you. Feelings of the present are often clouded by memories of the past." Washu felt the Baron's warm hands wrap around her small waist. She leaned close to him as he kissed her upon the nape of her neck. "Small one, I cannot take away the pain that must dwell within you. But, I can offer peace to the restlessness that has driven you so far into this realm of calculations and formulae." The red- haired woman looked at this man who was holding her so lovingly. To her, he was fairly handsome. Moderately tall, short cut jet- black hair with a small gray fringe around the front, dark green eyes set into a rugged, refined face with thin, smiling lips, a fair body, not very athletic but nowhere near out of shape either, dressed in tan slacks and a plain white dress shirt. She did feel close to him, in fact, she knew she loved him. But, after what had happened so long ago, loving someone was no longer enough for her. She had tried to explain that to Atore, but he paid it no mind and continued caring for her all the same. "Your heart is going to get you hurt around me, Teylono." Washu warned him quietly. "What you feel for me can't ever be fulfilled. Why can't you see that?" "If I'm to be hurt, why is it your words are the ones that seem to be spoken with pain?" asked the Lucidian. "Small one, I know of no one who can survive loneliness forever" Washu began to pull away from him, but Atore lifted her chin to keep her from looking away from him. She saw that he was near tears. "Washu, I will say now that despite my best intentions I will leave you. I will grow old, I will die, and there will be times that aren't the most pleasant in the world. But knowing that doesn't keep me from handing you my heart on a silver platter and telling you it's yours to do with as you wish. I only have a lifetime to give." Atore ran a hand through her blazing red hair and sighed. "But I'm willing to give you that entire lifetime." "I don't know what to say." Washu stammered. "I haven't done anything like this, felt anything like this, in so long." "There's nothing to say that I don't see you already expressing, Small one." Commented the Lucidian. "After all, there are only two things I need to hear from you in regards to our future." "What might those be?" Washu asked curiously as a knowing smile formed on her lips. Baron Teylono let go of her body and walked over to where he had hung up his sport coat. He reached into its pocket, withdrew a small box, and tossed over into Washu's hands. "The first is 'I will'," he stated suavely as the scientist opened the box. "And the second is 'I do'." "You cunning little devil." She chuckled. "Of course the answer is yes." || Mihoshi continued her wanderings into the vast gardens of the Great Hall. Looking for something to comfort her, she finds solace in little of her grand surroundings. Their splendor, their beauty, none of it was important. She smiled weakly as Trinay's own meandering path crossed hers. "Sister, why are you out in the gardens today?" she asked. "I thought it would be wise to escape the bureaucracy for a time. Would you mind if I walked with you for a while, dear sister? These days I feel terribly alone." "I'd be happy if you did, Trinay." Mihoshi replied. The pair walked together in silence. Neither tried to break the solemn silence that hung in the air. Indeed, their emotions during this time were being made perfectly clear to each other. "I can not stand the provincial governors right now. They persist with demands that the kingdom be turned over to Azure." Spoke Trinay after sometime. "But, Azure's only a little girl. Why would they want her for a ruler instead of waiting for Trinth?" Questioned Mihoshi. "It's a simple matter of control, dear sister. If one of the governors had a request he would be far more likely to have it fulfilled by a ten year old child then her near two millennia old father." "I see." Commented Mihoshi. "So you're delaying them while Sasami teaches Azure how to rule." "No." answered Trinay flatly. "I am awaiting the return of my brother." A messenger ran up to the Calab duchess and whispered something inaudible into her ear. A slight infuriated pause played prelude to her bidding farewell to her sister for the day. "It appears that I cannot escape my duties. Good day, dear sister." She stated briskly as she walked off, berating the messenger along the way. () She's a lot surer of herself now. I suppose that her constant dealings with the bureaucracy have given her a bit more confidence. She does need it, though. I spent one day with the regional governors and I was completely exhausted. They are an extremely self-serving group of individuals. The only things that seem to concern them are rank, stature, and profit. Hardly 'noble' at all, I think. There is one exception though, he rules over the province of Parthan in the mountainous regions to the west of Ghechana. His name is Naris Tolutey, a Rhequan. I met him at one of the last parties Trinth and I attended outside of our family. I wish I remembered the night we met for less than that reason. **Two years ago** The Great Hall's ballroom was overflowing with people as the regional governors and their companions arrived. It was to be a grand event celebrating Trinth's nineteen hundredth birthday. Not one person in attendance could disagree that their Archduke was deserving of a bit of accolade. After all, between his conquests, adventures, and illicit romances, he had still somehow found the time and skill to maintain Calaban's position as the commercial capitol of the Empire. The squabbles over his religion had finally been forgotten, now it was the breadth of his mind that was noted above all else. That and the extraordinary beauty of his wives. "Now, Azure. I want you to be polite to all of the dignitaries in attendance." Sasami was saying to her young daughter as they entered the ballroom. "Some of them may appear a bit odd, but as a future Archduchess you must learn to understand and appreciate all of our Empire's cultures." "Of course, mother. I would certainly not want a war on my conscience." The little princess said cheekily. Her deep blue eyes glimmered with youthful excitement and just a wee bit of mischief. Sasami sighed, it was the exact look that Trinth got before he did something far beyond others' expectations. "Mother, will Mother Mihoshi also be in attendance tonight?" "Actually, she has vowed never to leave your father's side during the party." Sasami chuckled as the pair made their way through the masses gathered in the ballroom. Many of the nobles parted way as the mother and daughter strode towards Trinth and Mihoshi. Both seemed to be engaged in a lively conversation with a strange man. Exceedingly strange, as he appeared to have been dipped in chromium metal. "Ah Dearheart." Trinth stated warmly, setting down his drink and bending over to kiss her cheek. "Glad to see you are here." He turned to the guest he had been speaking with. "Governor Tolutey, I'd like you to meet the second of my wives, Sasami of Jurai." "You have quite the appetite, Trinth Milodon, to require two women of such panache to satisfy you" He said jokingly. His voice was strangely composed, as if it were actually a chorus of persons speaking. Equally odd was his outfit; it had no visible seams or texture and no definite color, instead the colors shifted depending on the light. "Mother." Whispered Azure to Sasami, "Is this what you mean by not being shocked by the odd appearance of other races?" The governor, apparently hearing Azure's comment looked down at her and laughed. "So you are my future Archduchess?" he asked, smiling broadly. "I can see that the Milodon name and nature will carry on very well." Sasami breathed a sigh of relief, she was extremely grateful that the governor was not an easily offended man. "Naris? Are you going to continue telling us about the lunar celebrations on Rhequa?" Mihoshi persisted, seemingly a bit tipsy. The Cyrnian woman had obviously been enjoying herself more than usual at this function. Equally obvious was that Trinth had been partaking of spirits at a similarly high rate. "Yes, my good man, tell my wives of the wild raging infernos of lust that consume Rhequa on the eve of a lunar alignment." Trinth added. "I remember one time back nigh on three centuries." "When you advanced upon seventeen women and only had intercourse with three?" asked the metallic man. The two men doubled over laughing, clutching at their sides as Trinth attempted to explain. "Well, such is the luck of a Calab when the nights are long. If you catch my drift." "Oh? So now you claim temporary impotence?" "No Naris, I claim a lovely young Siyand the night previous to the festivities." Trinth stated boldly through his laughter. "They are making quite a scene of themselves." Sasami said quietly to her co-wife. "Carrying on like that is hardly a wise thing to do." "Oh Sasami, come on. It's a party." Mihoshi responded. The blonde threw her arms around the other duchess and boldly kissed her on the lips. The men laughed even harder as they watched the situation unfold. "We should have lots of fun tonight. Governor Tolutey here has been telling me all about the practices of his people and they sound like a blast." She giggled and continued holding onto Sasami, who in turn tried not to make it too apparent that she was struggling to break free. "Trinth?" Sasami inferred sweetly. "What exactly have you and Governor Tolutey been telling her?" nodding down towards the Cyrnian who just latched onto her waist. "Most likely about the Rhequan orgies that allow for a mutual exploration of sexuality amongst all races and genders, Mother." Azure spoke up. "Grandmother Misaki told me she attended one a long time ago with Father." Sasami was stunned into silence as her daughter stood up straight and addressed Tolutey. "Sazeyno kapen setra vey, Naris Tolutey." Azure stammered out in the same multi-leveled voice that the Rhequan noble had used. The whole room went quiet as the governor knelt down on one knee in front of the young Duchess. "Kavey yooinaet, Azure Milodon." He said solemnly, as a tear rolled down his silvery cheek. The room broke out in joyful applause. The nobles present shouted their approval of the young duchess. "What did she say, Trinth?" Sasami asked. Trinth smiled as he watched the bureaucrats crowding around Trinay with awe and reverence upon their faces. "The exact words are difficult to translate." Trinth answered. "But the rough meaning is 'I understand your pleasures and take them as my own.' At least, that's from what I remember." "And Governor Tolutey's reply." Asked Mihoshi. "Kavey yooinaet, a declaration of friendship and respect. It means literally 'Love and Trust', M'lady." The Archduke informed his wife. He smiled proudly. "Sasami, Mihoshi, our daughter is going to be a wondrous ruler. You are teaching her well." The Juraiin woman looked nervous for a moment. "But Trinth, neither of us have taught her anything about Rhequa." Trinth looked out towards his daughter. She was standing in the center of the ballroom, flanked closely by the ever present Lacent and Kaitan, with all of the nobles about her. Each had questions and comments and she was dealing with them masterfully. Azure was addressing each one in their native language. Her gestures and speech were impeccable. No flaw, no effort, nothing but brilliance was being exuded from his daughter. "Tonight," he said quietly, "we have witnessed my nineteen- hundredth birthday come and go. We have celebrated my past accomplishments, a victory here, a battle there and so on. But right now, my greatest deed in my life is getting the recognition she deserves." Sasami and Mihoshi leaned upon their husband's shoulders and wrapped their arms around him. Each silently professing their deep love for the Calab who had seen so much with them. For Sasami, Trinth represented the true nobility. A spirit lodged deep in honor and tradition, faith and courtesy, love and beauty. Trinth was an ideal realized for Sasami and she was glad for him. For Mihoshi, Trinth was much simpler. He loved her and she loved him. Every day, Mihoshi woke up to see his battle scarred body and every day, she loved to caress and sooth that body. The nights they spent together were almost magical to her. And the days were dreams come true. At least, they were when he was there to enjoy them. "Trinth." Mihoshi whispered into his ear. "Yes love?" "Are you going to tell them?" "Not now, I'm still needed by the bureaucracy." "Please, Trinth. Don't let them run you ragged for the next hundred years." "I'll stop when it is time." Mihoshi's eyes were near tears at Trinth's refusal. Still, he insisted on his tiring regime of meetings and council hearings. Only through sleeping for two days straight had he found the energy to stand fully on his own at this night's celebration. Wasn't Azure proving at this very moment that she was capable of acting as someone of her stature at this very instant? "Trinth, I don't want you to keep doing thi." Mihoshi's protests were interrupted by the sound of gunfire echoing from the ballroom floor. Shots rained down from the balconies towards Azure. Guests scattered and nobles crouched to the ground to avoid the bullets. The royal family themselves ducked beneath a nearby table. "Azure!" shrieked Sasami as she watched her daughter, still standing upright, become the target for the gunmen. Yet another shot rang out and it could be heard slicing its way through the air down towards the little girl. "I cannot allow this!" Bellowed Kaitan as he sprang in front of Azure, letting the bullet puncture his body and explode on impact. Azure screamed in horror as she watched her mother's faithful guard slump to the ground. His body ripped apart by the explosive shell. Not a moment later, Lacent grabbed her about the waist and ran with her back to her awaiting family. He winced as small arms fire riddled his torso. "Lord Falcon." He prayed as he sprinted across the ballroom. "Allow this child to live." Trinth mustered up his strength and dove out onto the floor. Desperately, he scrambled across the floor in a mad attempt to get to the guardsman who was failing in his valiant effort to transport Azure to safety. They met with one quarter of the way to go. Both covered Azure with their bodies, huddling over her as they made their way back to the relative safety of the table. "I have. protected the. Duchess Azure." Gasped Lacent. Sasami hugged her daughter close to her while Azure stared down at her hands. They were covered with the guard's blood. "Father?" she asked. "Why is this happening?" "I have no idea, but at the moment there is another brave fellow on that floor who is a bit more of a concern of mine." Trinth grabbed the guard's pistol and looked back at his wives. "I have a debt to that man out there. It shall be repaid." For a moment, the old look of fire returned to Trinth's eyes as he rolled back out onto the floor, rapidly firing the pistol at the balconies. He dashed to Kaitan, just as one of the assassins jumped from the balcony. "Lucidia shall forever be free, Milodon." The assassin shouted as he aimed his gun at the Archduke. "Impudent braggart!" yelled Trinth as he pulled the trigger of his pistol, firing a single bullet into the skull of his attacker. "Come on, Kaitan, your mistresses await." He stated reassuringly as he hoisted the burly guard onto his shoulder. Trinth teetered for a moment as he struggled to cope with Kaitan's weight. Finally, he managed it and rushed back to the table. He pulled Kaitan beneath it just as another spread of fire blanketed the area. "Excellency, it was foolish of you to risk your life for mine." Kaitan mumbled. Mihoshi tore off the guard's tunic, revealing several deep gashes upon his chest. She choked back a tear as she tried to use her dress to wipe back a bit of the blood. "Who would do this? We haven't harmed anyone." She asked sadly. "Lucidian Nationalists." Trinth stated abruptly, as he looked out from beneath the table. "There are those who disagree with Atore's choice of heiress. That Lucidia is falling under Calaban rule disgusts those who are accustomed to mere inclusion in the Empire." "It makes no sense." Sobbed Mihoshi as she looked at her beloved guards. "I agree." Added Sasami. "This is meaningless." "Your Grace." Interrupted Lacent, his voice wracked with pain. "I request a word with you in this desperate hour." "Your Worship, I too wish to speak with you." Spoke Kaitan. The duchesses crawled over to their respective guards and listened to them. "Our time grows short, dear ladies of House Milodon. I fear we will become a burden upon you before long." Began Kaitan. "A long time ago, we made a decision that the Royal Family was more important to us then our very lives. Now, we must face that decision." Continued Lacent. "There is a very powerful explosive device upon each of us. You will find it within our gloves." Stated Kaitan. Each duchess removed the gloves of the guards and handed them the small detonator. "Now, please, let us return to the center of the room. We will detonate the devices and bring safety to you once again." Lacent finished explaining the plan. "No, Lacent you can't do this. There's another way, I'm sure of it." Mihoshi pleaded. "Lady Mihoshi." Lacent said weakly. "We have finished our role in this life. Our highest calling has been answered. Duchess Azure is safe. We cannot outlive our usefulness." "Please, dear ladies, allow us to serve you one last time." Begged Kaitan. The duchesses wiped away their tears, and nodded. Mihoshi bent down and kissed Lacent. "I'll never forget you, you dear sweet man." She vowed as he crawled out from beneath the table. "I hope this day never escapes you, Lady Azure." Kaitan said reverently. "Please, take note of the fluid that covers your innocent hands and be sure that it never flows again during your reign." With that, the second of the Calab guards crawled out to the center of the ballroom and the Royal family fled the Great Hall. () "Forever the Milodon Family." Those were their last words. My beloved guards, they were faithful to the very end. Soon after the disaster of that night, Naris found and executed the leaders of the Lucidian Nationalists. My guards were entombed in a beautiful crypt in the gardens. Trinth spoke very little at their funeral. I think he was shocked by the event. There were no signs that anything like it was going to happen. It just happened and there was no way to prevent it from where he was. Trinth might have been feeling helpless at that time. But I knew something was desperately wrong now. And, I had noticed something that night. Trinth had been missing his daggers. I chose not to make anything out of it at the time, but within three months time, I spoke to him about it. **One year ago** "I lost them, that's all." The archduke professed to his wife as she sat in his study. His appearance had altered greatly since he had first set foot on Calaban. His once proud upright carriage now stooped down. The blue eyes that once sparkled with power were now dull and lifeless. And his hair, his regal mane of silver locks was now a frayed, dull gray mess. "I can't believe you'd just lose your daggers. Weren't they important to you?" Mihoshi demanded. She couldn't accept her husband's attitude. "M'lady, you're concerning yourself with minute details. There is nothing to worry over." Trinth said in a shaky tone. "You don't even believe that." Mihoshi cried out. She ran crying from his study, passing Sasami as she rushed away from Trinth. The Juraiin woman took one look at the situation. It was plain to see that Mihoshi had just confronted Trinth about the fear both of them had shared; that he was no longer the man he was. Sasami weighed her choices carefully then stepped into her husband's study. "May I come in?" she asked gently. Trinth looked to her sadly and nodded. She walked over to him and placed a hand on his shoulder. He seemed to wince at her touch. "Dearheart, have I changed that much?" he asked quietly. Sasami hesitated to answer. "I have, haven't I?" Trinth continued. "This morning, I exhausted myself getting dressed. It used to be that an entire platoon of attacking soldiers couldn't even wind me. It's humiliating." Sasami remained quiet. Trinth wasn't truly talking to her, simply thinking aloud. Now wasn't the time to interject. "You and Mihoshi deserve someone of far higher caliber than I. I've deteriorated while here on Calaban of my own free will. I let the bureaucrats get the better of me, let them run me into the ground, let them chain me to my desk. I let them tear me from those I love. What sort of man allows that to happen to him?" Sasami gently pulled Trinth down onto the sofa he had placed in his study. She drew him close to her, gently stroking his shoulder as he laid his head upon her lap. "You're still our husband, Trinth." Sasami said soothingly. "You have changed, but the way we feel for you hasn't." Trinth sighed as his wife's caresses calmed him. "You need rest. We all need a vacation, I think. A trip to Earth, perhaps?" Trinth nodded sleepily in agreement. "Then it's settled, we will all return to Earth for as long as it takes for you to regain your strength." Sasami said as she slowly stood, leaving her husband lying upon the sofa, steadily falling asleep. "Rest now, my husband." She said lovingly as she stepped out of the study and shut its door. "Part one of my plan accomplished." Sasami breathed a sign of relief as she shut the study door behind herself. "Now I just need to find Mihoshi and calm her down. Then, we're off to Earth." Sasami easily found her co-wife, as there were only a few places where she'd go when distressed. As it was a rather dreary day, there was little chance the Cyrnian woman would be out in the gardens. Also, it was far to early in the day for Mihoshi to retire to her chambers. This left the Great Hall's library as the last option. Sure enough, Sasami found the blonde sprawled across one of the many sofas in the library, sobbing lightly while staring at her old picture of Trinth. "Oh Trinth, what's happening to you?" Mihoshi moaned. "Am I interrupting anything?" Sasami asked. Mihoshi sat straight up and tried to hide that she'd been crying. "Nothing, why?" she asked, the tears still evident in her voice. Sasami sat down next to her and gave her a light hug. "You don't have to hide anything from me. We're sisters, remember?" "Yeah, I know." Mihoshi said weakly. "I'm just worried about Trinth." "Who isn't, these days?" Sasami commented. "Between his health and his growing stress, I think he's about on the verge of a nervous breakdown. Trinay knows it. Atore knows it. You and I certainly know it and I think that Trinth knows it as well." "Then why doesn't he do anything about it?" Mihoshi persisted. "Sense of duty to his people. Blind sense, though it may be. He honestly thinks he's doing what is best for Calaban." "No matter what it does to himself." Mihoshi added cynically. "Guilt is a powerful weapon and the bureaucrats are using it very well. They have maneuvered Trinth into a position where he sees the troubles on Calaban as being caused by his absence." "Poor Trinth. I wish they'd leave him alone." "They'll have to for a while." Sasami said mischievously. "What did you do?" Mihoshi asked, wide-eyed with curiosity. "I've convinced our dear husband to take a recreational leave with us to Earth. We'll be on vacation until he gets his strength back and not a second sooner." "That's wonderful!" Mihoshi said gleefully. "I'm so excited. We'll get to go back to Earth and see how Tenchi and Ayeka and Ryoko are doing. Will Atore and Washu come along?" "Of course. Baron Teylono said ruling Lucidia has been nowhere near as enjoyable as running Conundrum. Trinay has already agreed to take care of the bureaucrats in Trinth's absence and Azure is already packing her things." "So we're going?" Mihoshi asked happily. She jumped up upon the sofa. "Oh Wow! Thank you Sasami. This is going to be wonderful." Sasami laughed at the blonde. It was good to see her back to her old self. () So we set out for Earth aboard the Gilded Talon. We all were so glad to be back on Earth. After so long, nothing had changed. Well, Ayeka and Ryoko were a lot friendlier to each other and Tenchi seemed a bit happier with life. Trinth's cottage still stood in the hills to the north. Sasami jokingly nicknamed the little house the "Love Nest". It fit, especially during the later weeks of the vacation as Trinth began to recover. Wanting to prevent this in the future, Sasami and I demanded that Washu give Trinth a complete physical. **One year ago** "Well Trinth, if I had good news I'd give you it." Washu said to the Archduke as he dressed. "You're suffering from, amongst other things, insomnia, malnutrition, exhaustion, and muscle tissue deterioration. What the hell did you do to yourself?" "Do we have complete doctor-patient confidentiality?" Trinth questioned as he fastened his shirt cuffs. Washu hesitated then nodded. Trinth looked over both his shoulders and whispered to Washu. "Then you won't tell Mihoshi or Sasami about how I need another woman." Shocked, Washu slapped Trinth with all her strength. Near crying, she screamed at Trinth. "How could you? How could you do that to Mihoshi? Or to Sasami?" Trinth shut his eyes and coughed a bit. "It wasn't my idea, nor do I want another woman." He said firmly. "Makes sense. You're only doing this because you have to." Washu said sarcastically. "Exactly." Trinth said deadpan. Washu practically fell over out of disbelief. "What?" she asked weakly. "Take a good look at my hormonal enzyme levels, then compare them to what they were ten years ago." Washu did so upon her computer. Startlingly, his levels were now half what they were when he had met Mihoshi. Washu thought a moment, then ran brought up her medical readouts on Trinay. She smirked and turned to Trinth. "That confirms it. Oops." She laughed. "I'm sorry Trinth, I totally forgot about the whole Calab enzyme transfer thing." "All is forgiven." He said sheepishly. "I'm sure you understand what has been going on. In my staunch devotion to my wives, I've reduced the number of hormones in my bloodstream to dangerous levels. Trinay has been trying to convince me to find a Calab woman to bed down with to restore myself, but I refused." He paused and looked away, as if he could see his wives even from the depths of the lab. "I just couldn't convince myself to go along with it." "You really are something else, Trinth. Luckily, I have the solution." Washu remarked. Trinth looked a tad bit apprehensive. "I thought you didn't approve of such behavior?" He said shakily as Washu slowly walked towards him. "I'd only inject you that way if you asked." She replied with a hint of exasperation. Grabbing his arm, she dragged him back to the console of her computer. "My plan was to remove the enzymes from Trinay, then replicate them with a few minor alterations. That way, should you ever be in this situation again, you could have, for lack of a better term," she held up a beaker filled with a clear fluid, "liquid Calab sex through a simple injection." "Thank the Falcon for modern medicine." Trinth chuckled. I suppose that would work quite well, if being a bit dull." Washu could already sense the energy returning to the Archduke. She couldn't resist joking with him a bit more. "You know, my offer still stands. I could put on that black dress you always liked." "I think I'll just go and get Trinay for you." Trinth bowed out of the lab gracefully and quickly dashed off. "You know, if you push the right buttons, that Calab can be just as fun as Tenchi." Washu smiled to herself and began preparing the lab for the delicate surgery work that was going to be soon in coming. () Trinth and Trinay never told me about what went on with Washu during our vacation, but since Trinth was back to his old self I decided not to worry about it. We had so much fun together on Earth. Sasami was showing Azure all around the shrine. The little girl was so amazed by Earth. I think it was the first time I had ever seen Azure acting like a child. She would run about, chasing the autumn leaves, finding new things to discover at every corner. Sasami found her way into the kitchen very quickly, as did Baron Teylono. He designated himself the royal taste-tester and declared that no dish would touch the table without his approval. Tenchi seemed to have grown up a lot since we had left. He was very gracious and kind, as usual, but he also seemed to be very deep in though and the way he treated Ayeka and Ryoko was so wonderful. Both seemed to have reached a sort of neutral attitude towards each other. Almost an affection, and Tenchi was the recipient of all the affection those two had, and the one who returned those affections readily and easily. Everybody loves everybody. I think that says it all. I heard Trinth and Ryoko talking about it after dinner one night on the porch steps. **One Year Ago** "So, looks like you actually did get married." Ryoko said mildly as she sat down next to Trinth. She smiled and looked up at the sky. "I never would have thought it seven hundred years ago." Trinth leaned back to see the stars and smiled. "Seven hundred years ago, I didn't think you'd ever settle down, Ryoko." Trinth replied gently. "I'd say we both have grown up a bit since then." "It's funny isn't it?" Ryoko continued. "You're playing the part of doting husband, loving father, and peaceable monarch and I'm sitting here on Earth trying to figure out cooking and cleaning." "What an end for our stories, right?" Trinth sighed. "You know, I don't see it that way." Ryoko said matter-of-factly. She took Trinth's hands in her own and pulled him to his feet, then walked into the front yard. "Trinth, do you remember what we said we'd do if I ever got out of the cave? We said we'd stop fighting forever and fall madly in love. Remember?" Trinth nodded. "We did say that. But, we failed to carry it out." "No we didn't. We never said it had to be with each other, and I know I've stopped fighting." A wry smile crossed Ryoko's face and she reached into her kimono. "I think you decided to stop to, since you can't fight without." slowly, she withdrew the items she held in the confines of her dress and handed them to the Archduke. "These." Trinth's hands wrapped around the familiar hilts of his daggers, they felt just as perfectly formed to his palms as they were when he first unsheathed them. "I didn't. How did you? Why did you?" Trinth seemed to be choking on the words as he looked at his weapons. Ryoko put a hand on his shoulder and spoke reassuringly to him. "I was watching you when you threw them into the lake." She said. Her words were heartfelt and sincere. "At first, I thought you were about to run off. I admit, I was skeptical, and maybe even a little hopeful because, if you did, then I could chase you and it would be like old times. Then I heard what you said, and saw what you did and I realized that the old times weren't all that great." Ryoko looked square into his eyes, he looked back with the same intent. "I'm happy now. I think you are too. Am I right?" "Ryoko, you are quite correct." Trinth said thoughtfully. "Just the other day, I sat down with Azure and listened to her telling me about all the things she wants to do when she's Archduchess. I remember thinking to myself just how eager she is to get on the throne and laughing. Did you know that she wants her first act as Archduchess of Calaban to be the complete abolishment of height restrictions at amusement parks?" The two friends burst out in laughter and sighed. "I suppose this it was a normal life is like." Ryoko said wistfully. "No, this is what a happy life is like." Trinth replied. He slipped his dagger sheathes over his shoulders, the straps still fit perfectly against his chest. His hands closed around the hilts of the daggers and his body stiffened. "Ryoko." He said quietly, "How much of a head start would you like?" She grinned and began charging one of her swords in her fist. "What brought this on?" she asked vivaciously as she fell into a defensive stance. "I just need to see how far I've fallen behind." The Calab charged at the former space pirate, daggers drawn, and slashed at her. Ryoko laughed loudly as she jumped back. "That was fairly unimpressive." She joked as Trinth drew back. He smirked and crouched down upon one knee, then lunged at her. Ryoko leapt over him as he skidded to halt and turned. "By the Falcon." Trinth exclaimed. "You're giving me a bit of difficulty here." He paused, then a wry smile formed upon his lips. He rushed to the tree line along Ryoko's side and hurled a dagger past her. The blade neatly cut the sash of her kimono, letting it unravel about her. Her eyes grew wide as saucers as she frantically gathered the fabric in front of her body. She glared at where the dagger had been thrown from, only to find the spot empty. "Why so bashful, Ryoko? It's nothing I haven't seen before." A sly voice spoke from behind her. She felt the cold metal of the dagger against the nape of her neck and laughed. "You cheated." She said quietly. "But, I can't blame you. After all, you've got a perfect record to uphold." Trinth sheathed his dagger and removed his cape. He placed it about her shoulders and kissed her cheek. "Ryoko, I can't thank you enough." He said. "You've reminded me of a lot of things I'd forgotten." She smiled and put her hand on his shoulder. "I only wish I could do more, but, Mihoshi deserves you more." She said reassuringly. "Besides, I can have Tenchi any night I want so a fling with you isn't on my mind." The pair laughed and bid each other good night. () I guess I never realized just how close Ryoko and Trinth were. It was kind of interesting how they treated each other. Trinth hadn't ever really told me much about what he and Ryoko had talked about while she was in the cave. I don't think I ever really wanted to know, either. That night, Trinth sat down with Sasami and I to talk with us. He had come to a decision. || Mihoshi pushed open the wooden door to her bedroom. Since Trinth had left, she and Sasami had seen no reason to stay in the same room. Night was fast approaching. Another day without her love was ending. She drew closed the curtains of the window that overlooked Ghechana. The city's bright lights would soon be reflected off of the Cherdya River's expanse. "A beacon to the universe." Trinth had once called it. She disrobed and walked over to her body length mirror. The same faded picture of Trinth still sat alongside it. **One year ago** "My loves, I have put a great deal of thought into this. I am not a ruler. I am not a political figure. I am a knight. You are right; Azure is nearly old enough to ascend to the throne. I am of no use if I cannot control the bureaucracy, but I can make a difference as a knight. Therefore, I have decided to set out on one more quest aboard the Gilded Talon. I do not know when I will return, but I promise that I will return." Trinth spoke softly and lovingly. His eyes were misted over with what could almost be called tears. "Dearheart." He said as he took Sasami's hands in his. "You must continue to teach Azure. She will be the greatest ruler that the Empire will ever have seen." Sasami nodded. "Please, my dear little one, don't think ever for a moment that I am deserting you and Mihoshi. I swear that I will return after I have finished what it is I must do. You're very kind and very compassionate, never let them convince you that you must be any more than that. When I return, I want you to show all the emotion you feel, don't hold anything back for decorum's sake." He kissed her gently upon her brow and let go of her hands. His gaze rested upon Mihoshi. She was sobbing softly, not daring to look at him. "M'lady, this is difficult for you, I am sure." He asked, kneeling down to be at eye level with her. "I don't want to lose you." She whispered. Trinth let out a choked sob and wrapped his arms around her tightly. The two held each other closely, both crying, both hating the idea of letting go. "My beautiful dearest love," Trinth whispered in her ear. "You won't ever lose me. I won't let that happen. Not the depths of space or the finality of death itself will keep me from returning to your side. I love you." Mihoshi's grip lessened on her husband and he kissed her deeply, drawing away from her slowly until he was no longer with them. Soon after, the unmistakable sound of the Gilded Talon's engine could be heard out side. The battle cruiser's wings dipped low just as it sped out of sight, leaving only contrails and the heart of its captain behind. || "That was one year ago and I'm still waiting for you, Trinth." Mihoshi said aloud as she lifted his portrait off of her nightstand. "You're probably on you're way back as we speak, right?" Clutching the picture to her chest, she laid back upon the bed. "I know you'll come back. You promised you would." Mihoshi sighed and gave one last look to the stars above, as if she would hear the Talon's engines slowing as the ship landed in the Cherdya below, then shut her eyes, still holding Trinth's picture close. "Good night, my love." She whispered as she fell asleep, knowing that, even still, she would always have her Trinth. Author's comments: Thus it ends. I hope you have all enjoyed Gold & Silver in its entirety. To all of those who have graciously sent me commentary on this long running epic, I thank you. I particular, I'd like to cite Eucep, Lady Jayde, Hana Noir, Jim "Diabolo" Moore, and the good people at Pioneer for everything they've done in keeping this fic alive. I hope you continue reading Raygal fiction. The next one is meant for all of you Kiyone fans out there. Thank you all again. Tallgeese Forever! Craeyst Raygal