Tenchi Muyo: Ryoko's Love Alpha! Chapter 1A: A Friendly Wager By Long T. Tran 3/21/98 Disclaimer: I don't own these characters, AIC/Pioneer owns them. I don't intend to make money off this because I don't want to get a lawsuit. I'm too poor for that. But this is my story, so don't plagiarize! Author's Notes: We are going retro a few years! This chapter will start a year or two before Yui's birth. From this chapter on, we will see as events unfold and gradually shape the time line that'll head the Tenchi cast into Ryoko's Return Pt.2 . IN other words, let's not worry about the year 2018, and just enjoy brand new series of stories. (A prequel series to Ryoko's Love Prologue.) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It's another beautiful day at the Okayama countryside, after a hard day's work in the fields, Tenchi was on his way going up to his grandfather's shrine. Tired, miffed, and exhausted, he walked up to the shrine's office door and knocked. "Yes, who is it?" Yosho asked through the door. "Grandpa, I've finished working on the fields." Tenchi said through the closed door. "Very good, Tenchi." "Is there anything else you want me to do?" "No, that will be all for now. Why don't you go and wash up." "Alright." Tenchi replied. Tenchi walks the way back to the Masaki House. As Tenchi walked away from the shrine, Yosho was making sure that the coast was clear. Ryoko was sitting across the table sipping her saucer of sake as quietly as possible. Yosho turned to her and grinned. "I think it's safe for us to talk now, Ryoko." Yosho said, sipping his cup of tea. "Thanks, Yosho, for taking the time to chat." "My pleasure, Miss Ryoko. Please continue what you're saying." "Well, you know how much I'm attracted to your grandson." "Yes, I'm aware. Are you going to ask for another blessing to marry Tenchi?" "Oh no! Uhh,...I was wondering, could you play a game of chess with me?" Ryoko asked. "Chess?" Yosho said, astonished. "Yep!" Ryoko said happily. She reached into her blue gossamer dress and pulled out a wooden chess board. Having placed the board on the table in front of Yosho, she waited for his response. "Why do you want to play a game of chess with me?" he asked curiously. "Well, I've only played this game once in my entire lifetime." Ryoko said. "I just wanted to see how well I play up against you, you know, a challenge." Yosho thought to himself. Yosho looked at the board and then faced Ryoko and smiled. "Very well, let us begin." "Oh yes! Great! Thank you Yosho!" Ryoko exclaimed. A half hour later... Ryoko looked up at Yosho with growing frustration. Things didn't turn out the way she expected it to be. Yosho was in his usual calm obviously focused on his next move. Ryoko thought to herself frowning. Yosho made his move and slid his chess piece. "Your move, Ryoko." He said. Ryoko slammed her piece and looked up at him. "Checkmate!" Ryoko yelled. "I don't understand this!" Yosho said with disbelief. "Yosho," Ryoko gasped with a veiled hint of concern. "That's the three straight games you've lost in just a half hour. Are you sure you've played this game before?" "Yes. I've been playing this game all my life." Yosho replied. "But,...I'm not clear on one thing. You said, you only played once?" "Yes, I swear! I've only played this game one time." "Then I have to admit, Ryoko. You're a most superior player." "Ok, thanks, I guess that's proof enough." Ryoko smiled. *** A few minutes later, at the Masaki house. Aeka and Sasami were in the living room watching a TV show when Ryoko suddenly materialized in front of Aeka's view. "Ryoko!" Aeka yelled angrily. "Would you please get out of the way! I'm trying to watch a soap opera!" "Sorry to rain on your parade there, Princess." Ryoko grinned. "But I have something that might interest you." "What can you possibly have that would interest me?" "Well, this!" Ryoko smiled and brought out the chess board from her blue dress. "A chess board?" The princess paused momentarily and then frowned at Ryoko with suspicion. "What are you up to, this time?" "Ohh...nothing really." She smirked. "Actually, I just wanted to find out if you knew how to play chess." "I didn't know you play chess, Ryoko." Sasami interrupted. "I sure do, Sasami. Do you know how to play?" "No not really, but I'm willing to learn." Said the little princess. Then Sasami looked at her watch. "Well, it's time for me to go cook. I'll talk to you later." Ryoko watched as Sasami left the living room and disappeared into the kitchen then she turned to Aeka. "Well, princess. Do you know how to play or don't you?" "I know how to play chess. But I wouldn't play it against a monster woman like you." "Oh, is that right?!" Ryoko growled. "Yes, that's right!" Ryoko quickly buried her anger towards Aeka and focused back to her original objective and smiled. "Ok, fine. What if I were to offer you a small friendly wager?" "What could you possibly offer? I doubt that you have anything to wager on except for your stupid dress tails." "Even if it didn't involve Tenchi?" Ryoko grinned deviously. "What did you say?" Aeka stunned and turned to Ryoko and gave her a threatening gaze. "I'm warning you Ryoko, you better not be planning anything." "What's the matter, little girl? Scared? Frightened that I will get to Tenchi before you can?" "I'm not intimidated by you, demon." Aeka spoke undaunted. "You are too much, Aeka!" Ryoko laughed mockingly. "What are you laughing about? What's so funny?" "You thought that I was going to get Tenchi by stealing him away from you?" "Isn't that why you're here? Isn't that what you have always been doing?" "Of course, that's why I'm here. But to make things a little different and interesting. I'm going to try to get to him fair and square." "You're joking right? You? Playing fair? I find that very hard to believe." "Well believe it, sister. I won't be using any parlor tricks." "I still doubt it. Why the sudden change?" "That's a good question in which I'll be more than happy to answer." *** An hour later, Tenchi contentedly arrived at the house after a needed bathing in the floating onsen. He smiled and thought contently about washing away all his soreness from work; now, the only thing that bothered him was his hunger. As Tenchi walked through the back door he immediately spotted Ryoko and Aeka sitting around the living room table, their attention locked onto the chess board. Miraculously, the girls didn't notice his arrival. Usually they would greet him at the door and latch on to him, and when they grabbed him, a fight between them would usually occur. Whenever Ryoko and Aeka fought, Tenchi would usually be the one stuck with the bill to repair the damages. Not wanting to ruin a perfect day, he decided not to disturb the girls. Heading straight towards the kitchen to see what little Sasami was cooking up, he discreetly walked through the kitchen door and savored the mouth watering aroma of Sasami's fried noodles. "Oh! Hello Tenchi!" Sasami said, smiling happily while she fried a pan of noodles. The little toddler Ryo-ohki was at the kitchen counter helping sort the vegetables on to a platter. Ryo-ohki turned around and greeted Tenchi. "Hello, Ryo-ohki." Tenchi waved and then noticed that Mihoshi wasn't around to help Sasami prepare the food. "Where's Mihoshi? I thought today was her day off." Tenchi asked Sasami. "The Galaxy Police Headquarters called her in for an emergency meeting, she'll be back in a few days." Sasami answered. "Oh, I see." Tenchi replied and thought about Ryoko and Aeka. "Hey, Sasami?" "Yes, Tenchi?" "How long has it been since Ryoko and Aeka started playing chess?" Tenchi inquired. "I think about an hour. They've played about two games now. Ryoko has beaten Aeka in both matches." "Who challenged whom?" "Ryoko challenged Aeka." "Really?" "Yep." "Why would Ryoko do that?" Tenchi asked with even more curiosity. "I think because she's bored. At first Aeka refused to play when Ryoko offered. "What changed her mind?" "Ryoko made an offer Aeka couldn't refuse. Actually, not an offer, something more like a bet." "Which is what?" "If Aeka wins three out of five games of chess, Ryoko will take on all the chores for a month." "Ryoko wagered to do ALL the chores?!" Tenchi exclaimed with shock and disbelief. "That's right." Sasami replied as she poured the pan of noodles on to Ryo- ohki's vegetable platter. "For a whole entire month?! What happens if Ryoko wins?" "If Ryoko wins, she'll get one chance to play a game of chess with you." "Oh Tenchi!" Ryoko yelled out from the living room. "Come on into the living room, Tenchi! "Uh oh. Why do I have a bad feeling about this?" Tenchi sighed. "I'm going to go check and see what's up. I'll see you later at dinner time." "Alright, Tenchi. Good luck. I'm almost done with cooking, I'll be out shortly." Tenchi walked out of kitchen and found Aeka walking up to her room looking very defeated. While Ryoko was resetting the chess pieces, Tenchi turned to Aeka with concern. "Are you feeling alright, Aeka?" "I'm fine, Tenchi. Go and talk to Ryoko," Aeka said, gloomily and continued on her way. "Call me whenever dinner's ready. In the meantime, I'll be in my room." "But Aeka-" "Oh don't worry about her, Tenchi." Ryoko interrupted. "She'll get over her defeat." "Ryoko, you should be more considerate about Aeka's feelings." "I WAS being considerate, Tenchi!" She whined playfully. "In what way?" "I allowed Aeka to go up to her room instead of forcing her to listen to me gloat about my victory." "Oh jeez, Ryoko." He exasperated. "Ok, Tenchi! Come on over to the table!" Ryoko said excitedly, setting the chess board towards Tenchi. Tenchi sits down across from Ryoko and looks down at the chess board. "I didn't know you play chess." "To tell you the truth. I don't really play chess all that much." She admitted. "Ok let's begin." "Uhh,...I hope you don't mind me asking but, why are we playing?" "You really want to know, Tenchi?" Ryoko asked, smiling childishly. Tenchi nodded. "I'm just trying to get one honest date out of you." "W-What do you mean?" He asked nervously. "Don't worry about it. Let's just play chess. Trust me. Ok?" "Uh, sure. Okay." "But before we do, care to make a friendly wager?" Tenchi suddenly straightened up with alarm. "Friendly wager!?" *** Meanwhile, Aeka was in her room worried about the sudden change in events. She replayed her conversation with Ryoko. "Well? What do you say princess?" Ryoko asked grinning. "Very well, Ryoko. I'll play chess but under one condition." "Okay, name it." "If you somehow manage to win, and if you do win that date with Tenchi. You must not in any circumstances try to seduce him." "Whoa. Wait a minute there, princess. Now that's asking too much." "You said you were going to try to get to him fair and square, didn't you? Well it's now or never." Aeka retorted, tried to lay a desperate trap to find any of Ryoko's hidden agendas. "Which one will it be?" There was a long silence between the two girls. Aeka waited patiently as Ryoko considered her condition. Ryoko thought. She faced Aeka and smiled. "Alright princess, I'll play at your level. I won't like it but I'll do it." "Good, then it's decided." Back to the present time. She thought to herself and sighed. *** At the same time, downstairs in the living room. Tenchi and Ryoko have yet to start their game of chess. "Well, Tenchi? Are you up to it? Are you willing to bet?" "Hmm. Sounds fair enough. Let me review the agreement, one more time." "Fine." Ryoko sighed impatiently. "If I win, you will do ALL the chores of the house. Right?" "Yep." "For a whole month?" "Yes." "And if you win, I have to take you out on a date to any location in Japan of your choosing?" "That about sums it. And remember, just you and I." Tenchi thought about the agreement for the fifth time. "Oh come on Tenchi! Let's just play! You're stalling!" Ryoko demanded. "Ok! Alright! Let's begin." "Sheesh, finally." She frowned and regained her smile. Tenchi and Ryoko turned their attentions towards the chess board. "So who gets the first move?" Tenchi asked. "You will." "You sure?" "Yes." "Sure you don't want to start first?" "I insist." "I don't know..." "TENCHIII!" Ryoko cried out in frustration. "Will you please start!?" "Okay. Okay. I was just kidding." Tenchi turned his attention onto the first chess piece. He concentrated and slid his pawn to the middle of the board. Ryoko copied his move. Tenchi moved his knight next to Ryoko's pawn. Ryoko places her bishop next to Tenchi's knight. "Check." "What?! Already?" Tenchi started. His mind being thrown out of concentration. "Yep." Tenchi moved his queen to protect his king. Ryoko took the queen away with her knight. Tenchi's eyes bulged out of their sockets. he thought. "Check again." She stated. Tenchi slide his rook to protect his king and neutralized Ryoko's check. "How's that?" He boasted confidently. "Try that on for size." Ryoko used her queen and got rid of Tenchi's knight. "Check." "Huh? How can this be?!" Tenchi baffled out. He desperately tried to regain his concentration. He advanced his bishop and took Ryoko's queen. In response, Ryoko slid her rook and cleared Tenchi's bishop. "Check and check mate." "This is unheard of!" Tenchi was perplexed. He looked at the chess board and found that Ryoko had strategically placed all her chess pieces. No matter what move he made, Ryoko would always come out the victor. "Ryoko, how in the universe did you learn how to play like this?" "You want to know a secret, Tenchi?" "Sure, tell me." "All I did was set up my chess pieces. After I've finished setting up, I go in for the kill." "I see. That was very interesting. You've gotta tell me some more secrets. I'm sure you have lots in stored." "Tenchi?" "Yes?" "Are you trying to weasel out on our deal?" Ryoko asked suspiciously. "Me? Uhh,...No." He said nervously. "Good." Ryoko smiled. "Because you're taking me out to the perfect dating spot." "Where am I taking you? I hope it's no where expensive." "Oh no. Not at all. In fact, it's going to be totally free. So you don't have to worry about the finances. Except for, of course, the bus fare." "Okay, sounds good. Where exactly, are we going?" "We're going to Naroda beach!" Ryoko exclaimed happily. "Naroda beach?! But it's going to take us at least an hour and a half to get there." "Yes. And?" "I don't like long trips." "Why? Because it's just you and I?" Ryoko said as her smile disappeared, it was obvious her feelings had been hurt. Tenchi realized that he had his foot in his mouth. He thought angrily to himself. "Ryoko,...that's not what I meant." "Oh? What did you really mean, Tenchi? It sounded like you didn't want to go on a date with me at all." "It's not like that at all. I would love to take you out to Naroda." "You would?" Ryoko's face lit up. "Then why are you having second thoughts?" "It's just the fact that we're going to be cooped up inside a bus for at least an hour and a half. I just hate those kind of long trips." "Oh, I see. Don't worry, Tenchi. I'll think of something that'll help occupy our time." "Okay. When are we leaving?" "First thing tomorrow morning. I also have a little surprise installed for you." "Umm,...yeah." Tenchi said nervously. "Dinner's ready!" Sasami called to everybody in the house. "Oh boy! I'm starving!" Tenchi exclaimed. Then he paused and remembered Aeka. "What is it, Tenchi?" The little princess asked. "I gotta go get your sister. Don't wait up on me." He said and ran up the stairs. "Ok, Tenchi." Sasami spoke. When she turned around she saw Ryoko float towards Washu's lab. "Where are you going Ryoko?" "I'm going to fetch Washu for dinner. I'll be back shortly." Ryoko answered. "Please hurry. You know how much I hate it when the food to gets cold." "Boy, do I." Ryoko joked and happily patted Sasami's head as she floated towards Washu's lab. *** Washu was busy typing away on her keyboard, trying to figure out why hot dogs are always packaged at ten a piece and hot dog buns are packaged in only eight. Behind the busy scientist, Ryoko walked into the lab. "Who is it? Go away. I'm busy right now." Washu said. Ryoko cleared her throat loudly to catch Washu's attention. Washu turned around and her face lit up. "Ah! What can I do for you Little Ryoko?" "Mom, can you stop calling me that?" Ryoko muttered, obviously annoyed by Washu's babying tone. "Sure, little Ryoko. What can mommy do for you?" Ryoko grumbled a bit but quickly calmed down. "Well,...uh, mom. I managed to finally get a date with Tenchi." "Oh you did?!" Washu exclaimed. "I'm so proud of you! My little girl finally did it!" "Mom, please! You're making me sick!" "How did you do it? Did you control his mind?" "No." "Did you slip a photon neuralizer in his drink?" "No." "Did you tap in to his cerebral cortex and plant subliminal commands?" "No!" Ryoko screamed in annoyance. "Mom! Will you listen! I played chess against him and won." "Not bad, Ryoko. Not as complex as planting subliminal messages but still, not bad at all. It's crude yet effective. So where's your date going to be?" "We're going to Naroda Beach." "That's a very nice resort beach. Good choice, Ryoko." "I know." Ryoko agreed and smiled wildly. "There's going to be a lot of people there and well,..." "What Ryoko?" "Can you do me a favor?" "Sure, what is it?" Ryoko reached in to her back pocket and pulled out one of Washu's computer discs. She hands it to Washu and Washu looks at it curiously. "What is this, Ryoko?" "Take a look at it on your computer." Ryoko instructed. "I'll see you tomorrow morning." Ryoko runs out of the lab. "Alright." Washu replied. She placed the disc in to her computer and logs into it's files. The screen displayed Ryoko's request. Washu smiled with overwhelming joy and excitement. "This could turn out to be very interesting." *** Tenchi walked up to Aeka's door and knocked. "Yes? Who is it?" Aeka asked through the door. "It's me, Aeka." Tenchi answered. "I've come to tell you that it's time for dinner." A few moments later Aeka appeared at the doorway. "Let's go eat." She said. They both walked down the hallway, not saying a word to each other. Aeka decided to break the silence. "How did you do on the chess game against Ryoko?" "I did poorly. I thought I was a pretty good chess player but Ryoko really proved me wrong." The one answer that Aeka had been dreading since she was in her room. "And?" she asked apprehensively. "What can I say. I'm going to go on a date with her tomorrow morning." "Where are you going?" "We're going to Naroda beach, it's a resort area." Aeka didn't step any further, she tugged on Tenchi's elbow and stopped him from walking any further. "Tenchi, there's something I wish to tell you." "What. What is it, Aeka?" Aeka struggled, she wanted to tell Tenchi how she felt about him. "Please be careful out there. Anything can happen, don't hurt yourself." She spoke instead of 'Tenchi, I love you'. "Don't worry, Aeka. I'll be safe just as long as Ryoko is around. You know how powerful she is." "Yes." Aeka said, disheartened. "Let's go eat. I'm starving.!" Aeka nodded in response and followed Tenchi down to the dining table. Ryo- ohki was in her humanoid form, eating her carrots and Sasami sat right beside her. Ryoko was already at the dining table happily eating her food until she looked up and waved at Tenchi. Tenchi looked around and noticed that Washu wasn't around. "Where's Washu?" Tenchi asked. "She's in her lab, working on some experiment." Ryoko answered. "Oh? What is she working on?" "You'll find out soon enough." Ryoko hinted. "Let's forget about her and just eat!" "Uhh,...right." He tensed. "It better not be anything sexual, Ryoko." Aeka threatened suddenly. "Hey, don't worry princess. I haven't forgotten about our agreement." "You better not forget, Ryoko. Or else. If you hurt Tenchi in any-" "If I hurt Tenchi!?" Ryoko barked. "Why you silly little girl! Where you do get off saying that I will hurt Tenchi!?" "I can say anything I like! I don't think you're very trustworthy." "Oh. We'll see about that." "I doubt that we will." "You'll see. First thing tomorrow morning, your doubts will be no more." Ryoko assured. Aeka didn't respond to Ryoko's assurance, she still doubted Ryoko. Ryoko was silent, she continued on eating. She finally finished up her meal and stood up to go to Washu's lab. She turned and faced Tenchi. "Tenchi, I'll see you tomorrow morning." "Alright." "Is there anything you want me to bring for tomorrow?" Ryoko asked. "Umm, I think we'll need some food to bring along, suntan oil, towels, bathing suits, and an extra pair of clothes to change into." "Ok. Done. I'll see you later." Ryoko said and opened the door to Washu's lab. After Ryoko disappeared in to Washu's lab, Aeka turned to Tenchi. "Are you still willing to go with her?" "Yes, Aeka. I have to." "But are you willing to go?" "What do you mean, Aeka?" "You don't have to go unless you want to. Right?" "You know I can't do that." "Why not, Tenchi?" "Because it's not right. I've already set up an agreement with Ryoko. I'm not going to be the one to back out." "But she's a space pirate! You certainly don't have to carry out an agreement with her!" Aeka yelled out desperately. Tenchi was surprised to see Aeka using that tone of voice. "I don't like hurting either of you. I'm sorry Aeka, a promise is a promise. I always keep my word." Tenchi retorted. "I, I understand." She said feeling defeated. *** During the late twilight hours, barely wearing anything to keep herself warm, Ryoko had been strapped against the wall by Washu's restraining device. "How long is this going to take?" Ryoko asked impatiently. "Just a few more minutes." Washu responded while typing away on her keyboard. "Well, hurry up! I hate being cooped up in this contraption of yours! I haven't quite forgiven you for that last time, you know." "Oh calm down, Ryoko. I won't do anything like that again. At least, not for a while." "You left me hanging up here alone in the cold dark! Just how do you expect me to calm down?" Washu ignored her and decided to change the subject. "So why didn't you ask me yourself?" "What do you mean?" "You know what I mean, Ryoko. Why didn't you ask me in person? It's sounds a lot better than just asking via computer disc." "Oh. Uh,...I don't know. It's a pride thing I guess." "Pride, huh? Oh it's so sad that a daughter can't talk to her mother." Washu wailed playfully. "Oh poor little me! My daughter's afraid to speak to me!" "OK! Alright! I get the point." Ryoko cried out and decided to change the subject. "So, Washu. How long will this last?" "So, Ryoko. How long do you want your little request to last?" "Just give me a day." "Be more specific." "From sun up to midnight, I guess." "Ah,...so you're doing the Cinderella bit aren't you?" "Well, if that's what they call it on this planet. Yes." "Very interesting, Ryoko." Washu complimented. Ryoko looked away from Washu, she struggled to gather her thoughts to find the right words. "Thank you." Ryoko said barely. "What did you say, Ryoko?" Washu inquired honestly. "Thank you for helping me. Mother." Ryoko smiled softly. "My pleasure. Anything to help my little daughter on her first date." Washu returned. Feeling great happiness, Washu typed in the last few commands on to her keyboard and released Ryoko. Ryoko stepped down onto the floor. "You better get some sleep, Ryoko. Otherwise, you'll disappoint Tenchi." "Don't worry, I will. Good night." Ryoko expressed. Ryoko left the lab and heads towards her room, happily anticipating the next morning. *** Meanwhile, a few billion miles away, on the planet Jurai, Shoji was on his way towards the throne room. Shoji isn't your traditional type of Jurian, instead of having long graceful hair that went down his back, he had a mid length tail that only reached the base of his neck. He is a Jurian noble and even more unusual, a knight of the royal guard. One of the most powerful and capable, he's considered highly among his peers and colleagues maybe because of his honesty, his humor and his non-royal attitude. He finally arrived at the emperor's throne room. "You summoned me, my liege?" Shoji asked while kneeling. "Yes, Shoji. I have." "What can I do for you, sire?" "I've looked at your record and because of your valuable service to this royal family, I've decided to reassign you." "And what's my reassignment, sir?" "From this point on, you're going to be Princess Aeka's bodyguard." "Her bodyguard?!" Shoji looked up in surprise. He thought curiously. "Is there something wrong, Shoji?" Azusa questioned. "Uh, no sire. But I was wondering..." "Yes?" "Pardon me for asking, my liege. Aren't the Guardians of Jurai, proven to be adequate bodyguards for her?" Azusa flinched a little. "Why yes. But I've decided that you're the best of the best and I want the first crown princess of Jurai to be well protected. You can't blame a father for being protective, right?" Shoji noticed that the king of Jurai had a bead of sweat on his head. And decided not to think about the reassignment any further. "Of course. I'm sorry to have questioned you." "That's quite alright." "When do I depart?" "As soon as possible. I'll contact Prince Yosho as soon you're on the way." "Yes, my lord. I'll start packing." Shoji bows and leaves the room. Azusa watched as the knight left. He restrained hard to keep in his laugh. Aeka thought. "Uh, Tenchi?" Ryoko asked. "What Ryoko?" "What are you waiting for?" "I'm waiting on you to teleport us to the bus stop." "Right. About that..." "Ryoko, what's wrong?" "Nothing's wrong, it's just that I can't do that right now." "What do you mean, you can't do that right now?" Tenchi asked. "Are you sick?" "No." "Is there something bothering you?" "No, not really." "You don't want to go?" "Oh no!" Ryoko answered loudly. "Nothing like that, I assure you." "Then what?" "Well, didn't you notice the way I came out here?" "Yes. You used the door." "That's right. I USED the door." "So? What's so different about that?" "Tenchi, you're not getting what I'm trying to say. Can you remember the last time I used the door to go in and out of the house?" Tenchi thinks and tries to remember the last time he saw Ryoko using the front door. "Come to think of it, Ryoko. I don't think you ever used the front door." "That's right. I never USED the door." Ryoko stressed. Tenchi thought about Ryoko's last remark carefully and realized what she really meant. His eyes bulged out in pure shock. He was speechless. "Are you telling us that you can't use any of your powers?" Aeka spoke loudly. Ryoko nodded happily. "See Aeka! Now you don't have to worry about me seducing Tenchi in any way. Now, I'm as human as he is." "How should that matter? Why did you lose your powers?" Aeka asked wildly. "And how did-" "I'm sure it's interesting to find out why, but who cares! We're going to be late!!" Tenchi interrupted Aeka, he straightened up his shades and grabbed Ryoko's arm. "Come on, Ryoko! Let's go! If we don't catch this bus, the next one won't arrive until noon!" "Uh, right. See ya Aeka! And don't worry! I won't do any thing to Tenchi!" Ryoko shouted. "You better not Ryoko! Or else I'll send Azaka and Kamadake to check on you!" Aeka shouted back. Ryoko stuck her tongue and pulled her bottom right eyelid at Aeka as she hustled off with Tenchi to catch the bus. "We'll be home tomorrow morning. See you later." Tenchi said as he waved back to Aeka. Aeka watched as Tenchi and Ryoko ran off towards the bus stop. She sighed in frustration. "Aeka." Said a voice from behind. Aeka turned around and found Yosho. "Yes, brother?" "I have a message for you from father." Yosho said as he handed Aeka a subspace telegram. "Thank you, Yosho." Aeka read her father's message and a few moments later, she was in absolute anger. "What?! I don't believe this! Father's assigning me a new bodyguard?!" "That's what it looks like." "And what is going to happen to Azaka and Kamadake?" "They are currently being reassigned to another person." "What? To who?" "Good morning, Aeka!!" Aeka turned around and found Little Sasami riding on top of Azaka. "Sasami?" Aeka questioned. "Guess what father did today!" Sasami exclaimed happily. To be continued... The Lonely Moon (tragedy) I am lonely like the moon You are faraway as the earth Now you say I light your thoughts Night After night Soon you forget We are drifting in this dance I can feel you circle my thoughts Keeping such a graceful distance So close but somehow apart Sometimes I cry for you Knowing you don't want me to Sometimes I whisper to the stars up in the sky That I want to find the way to your soul Kiss in the sun when morning comes you don't seem to count the hours When we are not together I've seen a tender fire in your eyes Yet when I'm gone you carry on I float in this emptiness Till at last love returns With the night and the lonely moon Author's Notes: Phew! I'm finally finished! Tell me what you think! BTW! Did you see any improvement in my grammar! Please tell me I've improved! Please! Please! Please! Special thanks go to Minset, Random, Ryoko MR, Lord Talon, Cman1701 and my Sister. For taking the time to pre-read and giving me good pre feedback, I couldn't have done it without you all! Visit my FanFic's website: http://members.aol.com/evildrtran/index.html Tenchi Muyo: Ryoko's Love...Alpha! Chapter 2A: Naroda Beach Pt. 1 By Long T. Tran Disclaimer: I don't own these characters, AIC/Pioneer owns them. I don't intend to make money off this because I don't want to get a lawsuit. I'm too poor for that. But this is my original story concept, so don't plagiarize! Author's notes: Naroda beach is a fictitious place, just wanted to let ya know before you start reading. As you read, you may notice that I've added a new literary feature to my FF, subchapter titles. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Washu's Wonderful Toys After having caught up with the bus in time, Tenchi and Ryoko were nearly out of breath. They walked down the middle aisle of the bus and Ryoko took her seat right next to a window, Tenchi sat down next to her. Tenchi looked around the bus through his shades, he only saw two other people inside the bus, the driver and an old gray bearded man. Tenchi was no longer gasping for air and decided to break the silence. "So you've volunteered to lose your powers?" Tenchi questioned. "Yes. For only a day." Ryoko confirmed. "How does it feel right now? You know, to not be able to use your powers." "It's kinda hard to describe. Actually, it feels weird. In a way, I feel small." "Hmm. I think I understand what you're getting at. Maybe because, you don't have your powers." "Maybe." "Which brings another question to mind." "What's up? Ask away." "Why did you decide to turn off your powers for just today?" "You know that's a funny question." "Oh? Why?" "I don't know..." "You don't?" Tenchi said, perplexed. "You're very weird, Ryoko." "I know." She sighed happily. "I'll tell you later on, ok?" "Uh, sure. Okay." "What time do you think we'll arrive at Naroda Beach?" Ryoko asked. Tenchi looked at his watch and estimated the time. "Hmm, right now my watch reads 7:50, I think we'll arrive at around 9:30 or 10. It's going to be a long ride." Tenchi sighed unhappily and sank in his seat. "I think I can fix that by cutting this trip by ninety-nine percent." "Oh really, Ryoko. And how are you going to do that?" Tenchi asked skeptically. Ryoko reached over her shoulder and dug into her black backpack. Tenchi looked at Ryoko curiously as she pulled out a palm-sized, rectangular-shaped, silver box. She handed the device to Tenchi. "Uh, what is this Ryoko?" he asked apprehensively. "Something that'll help speed our trip a little. Why don't you put that nice little toy right there next to your left foot." Tenchi did as Ryoko directed without giving much thought. "Ok, now what?" "All we have to do now is wait 5 seconds." Ryoko replied. "Sounds simple enough." Tenchi said. Then a horrifying thought finally dawned on him. "Wait a minute! You didn't get this from Washu did you?" "Yes, I did as a matter of fact. And that means you should hold on tight!" Tenchi did not hesitate to follow Ryoko's advice. He quickly grabbed and tightly held onto a seat that was in front of him. Instead of a seat, Ryoko clutched onto Tenchi's waist. Suddenly, Tenchi could hear a low whistling sound that emanated from Washu's device. "Uh oh. I don't like the sound of that...!" "Oh don't worry about it, Tenchi! Here comes the really fun part!" The fat bus driver was happily minding his own business when suddenly he heard a low pitch whistling that sounded like it was coming from behind. Then the steering wheel started to go crazy in his hands, as if the wheel was driving the bus for him. "What's going on here!? I can't control the bus! " the driver screamed. "OH MY GOD! WE'RE DEAD AND WE'RE ON THE EXPRESS BUS THAT'S HEADED STRAIGHT TOWARDS HELL!" Ranted the old man. Then the surroundings of the bus were suddenly immersed in a blanket of brilliant color and light. The bus's rumbling quickly subsided into a floating ride. "What's going on, Ryoko?!?" Tenchi asked fearfully. "We're just travelling at the speed of light. Well, the same concept at the least." At that very instant, the bus dropped out of warp and Ryoko released herself from Tenchi's waist and looked through the bus's glass window. This was the first time she ever saw the crystal blue waters of Naroda beach. Tenchi was tense and quickly looked up, grabbed Washu's warp device and wiped a sweat from his forehead. "Ok, we're here! Let's go before the driver decides to ask any questions." Tenchi said and quickly stood up, grabbed Ryoko's arm and rushed out of the closest exit. As they hurriedly departed from the bus, Ryoko had time to stop for a second to turn to the bewildered bus driver and smiled. "Thank you for the ride, kind sir!" Ryoko said happily, waving at the driver. The driver didn't at all respond to Ryoko's gratitude, he gawked and simply closed the door and sped off on the road at a wild acceleration. Tenchi couldn't help but sigh in exasperation. Tenchi and Ryoko were both on the sidewalk pavement that bordered the highway and Naroda beach. "Well, at least we're here. Although, a bit earlier than expected..." Tenchi said and smiled as he viewed the beautiful sandy white beach that laid before him. He reached into his backpack and pulled out his father's photo camera. Tenchi turned to Ryoko and aimed his camera at her. He stepped in front of Her and made sure that she was in the foreground while the resort beach was in the background. "Taking the first photograph of the day, Tenchi?" "Yes I am, Ryoko. Smile." Ryoko smiled brightly showing her perfect row of teeth and held up her right hand to show a peace sign. The camera gave out two snapping sounds indicating that Tenchi took two pictures. "I didn't know you like to take pictures, Tenchi." "I've always wanted to, but never came around to actually trying it. Besides, I figure today would be a good day to start. It's not everyday I get to go to a nice resort beach. I just know those pictures are going to turn out perfect." Tenchi said and placed the camera back into his backpack. He looked at his watch. "Hmm. Eight o'clock. Not even the shops are open." Ryoko didn't hear a word of what Tenchi had just said. She looked around and saw that the beach was surrounded by little shops and stands. There was an elevated pier, one hundred fifty to three hundred yards away from the beach's waterline that served as a foundation to the seaside hotel. There was also a nearby travelling carnival that's yet to open for the day. Ryoko noticed a huge Ferris wheel that towered the fair, it stood approximately 200 ft. off the ground, one of the biggest she's ever seen. The water is clear and crystal blue, Ryoko could actually see the fish swimming beneath the water's surface. The eight o' clock sun shined very brightly into her golden-yellow eyes. Ryoko closed her lids and welcomed the gusts of the ocean's cool winds blown against her face. She sniffed the aroma of the ocean breeze and relaxed. She thought contently. She opened her eyes and found that the beach was deserted. "Uh, Tenchi?" "Yes, Ryoko?" "Where's everybody? Isn't there supposed to be a lot of people at this beach?" "Well, that's the thing, Ryoko. They haven't started their arrival yet. Not even the shops are open. What do you suggest we do now?" "Not to worry, we can start looking for a spot to set up our little base camp." Ryoko assured. "Base camp? But we didn't even bring any tents or camping utilities." "Not to worry. I have it all covered." Ryoko assured as she scanned the beach for an ideal spot to set up camp. Tenchi stood there next to her and waited patiently. Then after a few moments of surveying, Ryoko spotted the perfect area. "Eureka! I've found it!" Ryoko exclaimed. She grabbed Tenchi's arm and stepped off from the sidewalk and onto the beach's white sands. They walked along near the waterline for about three minutes, turned right and arrived in front of a bare concrete foundation that used to support an elevated beach house. Ryoko examined the barren concrete slab and estimated it's length and width. "What are we doing here, Ryoko?" Tenchi inquired curiously. "I'm just setting up our little camp." Ryoko replied as she reached into her travel bag. "But don't we need tents?" "I said don't worry, Tenchi." Ryoko pointed out as she revealed to Tenchi another silver box. This time the box looked more square than rectangle and it had a red button. "Oh I get it! That little box is containing our tents right?" "Well, not exactly our tents..." Tenchi tensed at the remark. Ryoko joyfully placed the silver box onto the concrete foundation and pressed the red button. The box suddenly opened up, unfolded rapidly, and quickly transformed into a beach house. The house was elevated by wooden supports and resembled the Masaki residence, except it was a smaller version, just enough to fit the concrete foundation. It was only a single story house, the front end faced the mainland while the back faced the ocean, the back had a nice balcony patio that overlooked the sea. "It's more like a temporary residence, courtesy of Washu." Ryoko finished off. "Thank you, Washu!" Tenchi said in awe. Tenchi and Ryoko walked up the stairway and opened the front door. Both stepped through the door and were amazed that the furniture had been provided as well, not only that, the interior is identical to the home back in Okayama. "I'm going into the kitchen to put up all of Sasami's food." Ryoko noted to Tenchi. She opened the door to the kitchen and walked through. "Go ahead and take a look around." As Ryoko walked into the kitchen, Tenchi was clearly happy about the beach house. He placed his backpack onto the sofa and noticed the television set. He stepped over to the living room area and turned on the TV. The TV flickered on and the channels were less then Okayama's but they were working nominally. He decided to turn off the TV set and headed out towards the patio. Tenchi found that the patio had two body length patio chairs to lay on and an outdoor umbrella dining set for four. Tenchi laid down on one of the patio chairs. He inclined the chair to sit upright to view the morning beach. The beach waves rhythmically beat against the water's edge, the sun was warm, the clouds balanced out the heat and the wind was soothingly cool. He looked at his watch again, it read, 8:10 am. he thought. "Ah, paradise!" Tenchi said happily. "You can say that again, Tenchi." Ryoko agreed as she walked out and she sat down onto the patio chair next to Tenchi's. She laid down but didn't incline her chair to sit up. "How do you like our date so far?" "I'm really enjoying this trip, Ryoko. This is a great place to relax and have fun!" "I knew you would like it, Tenchi." Ryoko said, her voice sounding very soft and quiet. "Tell me about it! I'm going to love this day to the very end. You have to be crazy not to. I mean, this day had been so full of surprises. Like that quick bus ride, your backpack of surprises, and not to forget, your..." Tenchi cut himself off and noticed that Ryoko was unusually quiet. He looked down beside at her and realized that Ryoko was quietly fast asleep. "Uh, Ryoko? Hello?" Ryoko didn't respond, she was already deep in her sleep. He thought while admiring Ryoko's tranquil and serene face. An idea popped into Tenchi's mind and he quickly walked back into the house and dug into his backpack and grabbed the camera. He stepped out to the patio and quietly took Ryoko's pictures. After taking three snapshots, Tenchi paced back into the house and placed the camera back into his backpack and was out in the patio again. He found himself staring at Ryoko's face as she slept quietly. Tenchi noticed that Ryoko had started to sweat due to the sun's rays, he carefully grabbed the dining table's umbrella and placed it carefully over Ryoko, giving her plenty of shade. Tenchi smiled at Ryoko again and sat down in his chair and peacefully watched Naroda beach's ever changing waterline. *** Mihoshi! Meanwhile, halfway across the known universe, at the Galaxy Police Headquarters Mihoshi's shuttle prepares to depart for it's next assignment. Mihoshi pulled off her formal gloves and jacket while making her way towards the cockpit. Mihoshi thought. She arrived at the cockpit and sat down in front of the shuttle control module. "Oh, Yukinojo!" Mihoshi happily summoned. "Yes? Miss Mihoshi?" The robot said as it appeared from the cockpit ceiling. "Set a course for the Orion system." "Yes ma'am." The robot complied. The shuttle activated the maneuvering thrusters and started to slowly back away from its assigned port. "What's our next mission, detective Mihoshi?" "It's a really simple assignment. All we have to do is rendezvous with the Fourth Patrol Fleet and set course for a planet called Orion" "Why are we heading out to such a remote planet?" "To investigate why we've suddenly lost communication traffic from our outpost on Orion. We're ordered to find the problem and fix it. It's probably some glitch in their computer systems or something." "Pardon me for asking, but..." "Yes? What is it Yukinojo?" "Don't you find it peculiar that HQ is sending out an ENTIRE patrol fleet just to investigate a minor case?" Mihoshi's jovial face suddenly turned serious and thought about the robot's point. "It is kind of odd, isn't it?" "Do you think its more than just a glitch?" "Hmm. You might be onto something, Yukinojo. Oh well! Can't start worrying about it now!" Mihoshi, said and reverted back to her cheerful carefree attitude. "I guess we're just going to have to go with the flow! Oh, Yukinojo!" "Yes, ma'am?" "Set a course for the Orion System! And when after that mission's done and out of the way... Home!" "Yes, ma'am!" The shuttle pulled clear from its dock and sped off into the vast voidness of space. *** Aeka's Request A few hours had passed since after Tenchi and Ryoko's departure for Naroda beach. Trying to distract herself from thinking about Tenchi and Ryoko's 'incidental' date. The garden, which was placed inside the Masaki greenhouse, is elegantly decorated with a different assortment of soft and bold colored flowers collected from planets Earth and Jurai. Aeka was wearing her gardener's apron and gloves. She planted the latest flower to her botanical collection, a red rose. With precise and gentle care, Aeka nourished the blossoming earth flower with water. After she watered the floral plant, Aeka sniffed the fragrance of the rose and smiled softly. she thought to the rose. Aeka untied her apron and pulled her gloves off of her hands. She turned away from her garden and headed back to the house. She walked out of the greenhouse and looked up and found that Sasami was happily riding on top of Kamadake, flying around in the open skies above. Aeka smiled as Sasami laughed out with all her energy, Sasami was having the time of her life. Aeka thought. Aeka looked up at Sasami, who's still flying around and an idea came to her mind. "Oh, Sasami!" Aeka called out. "Hello Aeka!" Sasami greeted happily. She orders Kamadake to land right next to Aeka. "I see that you're having fun with your new guardians." "I sure am! So why did you call for me?" "Well, I was wondering, could you do me a small favor?" "Sure, Aeka! What is it?" "Could you by chance, come with me on a little outing?" "Outing?" Sasami said, puzzled. She paused for a moment and frowned at Aeka. "Aeka, are you asking me to go with you to crash in on Tenchi and Ryoko?" "To be straightforward with you, yes I am." "Forget it, Aeka! I'm not going!" "Please, Sasami! It means a lot to me!" Aeka begged. "It's not right! Let Tenchi and Ryoko enjoy their first date..." "I won't allow that, Sasami! I just won't!" Aeka interrupted. "I can't believe you said that, Aeka! You were taught better than that! Of all the people to break promises! Didn't you expect this to happen when you first shook hands with Ryoko?" Sasami frowned. "Ryoko would never do a thing like that to you! Never!" Aeka stood silent, shocked by Sasami's sudden outburst. "Well? What do you have to say? Your newly assigned bodyguard is already on his way, he should arrive any minute now. You must either stay here and welcome him. Or you can just go to Naroda and start up another fight with Ryoko and hurt Tenchi's feelings at the same time." "You're right." Aeka said reluctantly. "How foolish of me to even think about breaking my word of honor. I am the crown princess of Jurai and I must keep my promises, no matter how hard it may be." Sasami sighed in relief. "I guess we should start preparations on a welcoming party for my new guardian. By the way, Sasami. Would you have any clue on who's to be my new bodyguard?" "No. Not really, Aeka, but brother Yosho might know. Why don't you go ask him?" "I just might do that, Sasami. Thank you for the suggestion. And thank you for setting me back in place." "Don't mention it, sis." *** The Sunblock At around one o'clock, Ryoko finally came about. She opened her eyes and looked over to Tenchi and smiled. Tenchi was reading a book from grandfather's office, he looked up from the book and smirked at her. "So, you're finally awake." "Oh my! How long was I asleep?" "Not very long. Only about three to four hours." "I'm sorry to have you wait on me like that, Tenchi..." "Oh, it's ok. I'm not mad. I actually spent the whole time sitting here enjoying the view, reading this book and watch the arrival of all those people." He interrupted and pointed out towards the sands. Ryoko raised her patio chair and found that the beach was alive and full of activity. Her face lit up with excitement. "Oh wow! Will you look at the beach! It's so full of life!" Ryoko exclaimed. There were two separate volleyball courts, being played at the same time. People playing and swimming in the crystal waters. A few sunbathers, people sitting beneath huge umbrellas, small picnics were held, lovers cuddling and walking, sand castles being built, kids flying kites, and three individuals fishing. And lastly, there were people at the carnival. "Come on, Tenchi! Let's go!" "Wait. Not yet, Ryoko." "What? Why not?" "Since we're going to be out in the sun all day, we might as well where some skin protection." "Skin protection?" Ryoko said perplexed. "Yep. These days, it's not safe to be out in the sun without wearing any sun block. Long exposures to the sun's rays can cause skin cancer." "Oh, I see. Okay then, you wait here while I go get the sunblock." With enthusiasm, Ryoko jumped up from her chair and ran back into the house. She found her back pack, grabbed the bottle of sunblock, and made way her back towards the balcony. "Do you have it Ryoko?" "Yep! Sure do." Ryoko confirmed, as she handed the bottle to Tenchi. She sat down on her chair. "You first." "Um, alright." Ryoko watched as Tenchi pulled off his white tank top and opened the sunblock bottle. He applied the solution on to his chest, arms, stomach and lower back, not realizing that the sunblock made his slim-but-built-body look even more sweaty and muscular. Ryoko pondered with surprise and awe. As Tenchi applied the lotion, he looked up and noticed that Ryoko was staring at him intensely. He started to tense nervously. "Uh, Ryoko, why are you staring at me like that?" "I wasn't staring..." Ryoko denied but her face was clearly red. She quickly paused a few moments and gathered her thoughts for a quick recovery. "I was just enjoying the handsome scenery." She muttered in a confident way. "Can you do me a favor?" "I know, I know. Turn around so I can stop staring at you." Ryoko assumed. "No, no. Can you help me rub this sun block onto my back? I'm having a hard time applying this." "Sure!" Ryoko exclaimed. She stood up, walked over to Tenchi and placed herself next to him. Tenchi handed the container over to Ryoko and turned his back towards her. Ryoko smiled and opened the bottle. She poured a small amount into her hands and applied the solution onto Tenchi's back. Ryoko frowned a little and cleared her throat. Tenchi's back felt unusually stiff. "Tenchi, why are you so tense?" Ryoko inquired. "What do you mean? I'm not nervous." "I know that. What I meant was, why are your muscles so stiff?" "I guess it's because, I've been working out in the fields a lot for the past few days." "Oh, I see." Ryoko finally finished the application of the sun block onto Tenchi's back, instead of pulling her hands away, she decided to give Tenchi a massage. She rubbed her fingers down his back in a circular motion, allowing more blood circulation into his back muscles. Then she moved her hands to his shoulders and pressed rhythmically. "That feels very nice, Ryoko. Where did you learn how to do this?" "I picked it up a few day ago, while watching a TV show. Do you really like the way I'm massaging you?" "Yes...I like it!" Ryoko beamed wildly because of Tenchi's compliment, as a result, she unwittingly massaged his shoulders even harder. Her rough massaging caused a sharp sensation. Tenchi hissed out in pain. "Whoops! Sorry about that Tenchi." "It's alright, Ryoko. I really needed that massage. Thanks." He smiled, gratuitously. "Please don't stop." "My pleasure!" Ryoko said, then giggled. Ryoko massaged Tenchi for another five minutes and stopped. Tenchi turned around and faced her. "I guess it's your turn to put on the sun block." "It sure is!" Ryoko said excitedly as she pulled off her red tank top to reveal her blue bikini top. Ryoko poured the lotion onto her palms, Tenchi watched as Ryoko applied the sun block to her skin. Then she struggled to put the solution onto her back. "You need help with that Ryoko?" Ryoko was momentarily tempted by Tenchi but thought back to her agreement with Aeka. "No, that's alright. I can handle it." She replied. "Are you sure? Looks like you're having trouble putting that on." "Yeah, I'm sure. Thanks for the offer." "Uhh. Okay." Tenchi thought. Tenchi watched as Ryoko settled the rest of the sunblock, he couldn't help but admired how her blue bikini enhanced her attractiveness. Tenchi thought. Her body was covered in perspiration which made her feminine figure stand out even more. Before Ryoko noticed that Tenchi was staring at her, he quickly looked away and buried his thoughts. Ryoko wiped a sweat from her forehead and looked up at the sun. The sun was really getting hot and the wind wasn't helping at all. "Phew! Is it getting hot or what?" She commented. Her hair was matted from the moisture caused by her perspiration. She grabbed a nearby towel to dry off her sweat. "So what's the first thing you want to do today, Ryoko?" "Well, the first thing that comes to my mind is go shopping for a good shady hat." "Alright, sounds good to me. Then what?" "Then we'll decide and just go with the flow for a while." "Ok. Let's go, shall we?" Ryoko grabbed her red tank top and wore it over her bikini. She followed Tenchi into the house. Tenchi had his shades on and camera over his shoulders, he was already at the front door. Tenchi decided to be a gentleman, he opened the door for Ryoko. Ryoko walked through the doorway and smiled at Tenchi thankfully. They both walked down the steps of the beach house and headed straight for the Naroda Beach Market Strip. The Fortune Teller, The Sun Hat Tenchi and Ryoko had reached the beach accessories shop in the middle of the Marketplace. The strip was located along side the beach resort's beach walk, it had ten separate stores in all. As they walked towards the accessories shop, Tenchi noticed an Arcade next door to the shop. Ryoko walked into the accessories shop first, Tenchi was about to follow her but something caught his attention. Passing by the arcade, Tenchi noticed a curious looking machine that stood next to the arcade's entranceway. The heart-shaped machine was completely crimson and stood on a black pedestal. A sign attached to the top of the machine read: "The Fortune Teller of Potential Love: For one yen piece, see if the one you have your sights on is your true love!". "Oh yeah, right!! That has got to be the hokiest claim I've ever read!" Tenchi said, skeptically. "Why are you putting down my machine like that!!" A craggy old voice yelled out from behind Tenchi. "You kids these days, have no faith in anything!" "Oh! Sorry about that rude comment." Tenchi apologized. He turned around and looked down to see an old bald man looking up at him with angry eyes. The old dwarf quickly extinguished his anger towards Tenchi and ruffled his bushy white moustache with his finger. "That's alright kid, you're not the first person to be skeptical of my machine." "Really? You mean other's have actually said the same thing?" "Of course!! They would voice their disbelief and just out of pure curiosity, they also tried it." "And what would happen?" "Only two things..." said the old man, holding up his two fingers. "One, they would remain as lovers. Two, they would discontinue their relationship." "Oh come on! Couples wouldn't break off their relationships because of a machine's opinion?" "Yes, they would. You'll be surprised." "Why?" "Call it a twist of fate. One minute a potential couple are looking at each other for possibilities of love, the next, they turn away from each other and march on home never setting sights on each other again. I've seen this happen thousands of times before. But on the good side, I've also seen relationships grow even stronger." "Now, that's really pushing it. I find that even harder to believe. People just don't make decisions solely based on a gimmick's answer." "Oh they don't, eh? Then why don't you try it out yourself." The old man smirked. "What do you have to lose besides one yen piece?" Tenchi thought. "Well, kid? You think you're up to it?" The old man asked. "Okay, then. I'll try it." Tenchi reached into the pocket of his shorts and took out five separate yen pieces. Each for Sasami, Aeka, Mihoshi, Washu, and Ryoko. "Five Yen pieces? Very interesting! Planning to find out whether you can nab five girls, eh? I didn't know there's a sexual revolution going on right now. You kids are too much." "Hey now! That's not what it looks like!" Tenchi said defensively. "I'm not like that at all!" "Yeah, right." The old man doubted bluntly. "All I can say about you kids is that you're all pumped full of hormones." Tenchi thought. "Well, anyways." Tenchi grumbled, changing the subject. "How do I work your little gimmick here?" "It's quite simple, really. All you have to do is pop a coin into it's slot and type in the name of the girl. After that, the fortune teller will print out your answer." "Ok, sounds simple enough." "Well, kid. I would like to see what answer's in stored for you but I have to go run my arcade. See you around." "Uh, yeah. Thanks." Tenchi watched as the old man walked away and disappeared into the arcade. Then he cautiously looked around to see if Ryoko was anywhere nearby. Tenchi turned and focused his attention onto the machine. He popped in all five of his yen pieces into the machine's coin slot. A short and simple direction appeared on the machine's black screen. The fonts were colored red and the background was black. PLEASE TYPE IN YOUR NAME. Tenchi did as directed. PLEASE ENTER THE NAME/NAMES OF YOUR HEART'S POTENTIAL. Tenchi typed in five names. Then he checked if his spelling was correct. Washu Hakubi Sasami Jurai Aeka Jurai Mihoshi Kuramitsu Ryoko Hakubi PLEASE WAIT WHILE THE FORTUNE TELLER OF POTENTIAL LOVE, PROCESSES YOUR ANSWER. Tenchi waited a few moments for the machines response. He nervously looked at his watch and realized that five minutes had already passed since he left Ryoko alone. The heart shaped Love tester started to print it's results onto a long receipt paper for Tenchi. The printing was taking very long for him, trying his patience. Finally it stopped printing and Tenchi pulled out the sheet from the love tester. He finally found the familiar names. He noticed that right next to each of the girls' names, appeared notes. He looked at the first name on the list: Washu Hakubi: This one is rather unique, but don't go for her. Too smart and too old. "Wow! The old man wasn't kidding! This thing actually works!" Tenchi said, excitedly. "Though I think the answers are kind of on the blunt side." Tenchi reads the next name on the list. Sasami Jurai: A very sweet person at heart, only one problem... She's too young. He moved down to the third name on the list. Mihoshi Kuramitsu: Another sweet person, this time the right age. Not a good choice for you, she'll really test your patience if you choose to go steady with her. Meanwhile inside the beach accessories shop, Ryoko was browsing around for about five or ten minutes, looking for the perfect hat to wear out in the hot sun. She noticed a round sun hat with a blue bow-tie ribbon sitting on top of a rack. She decided to try the hat on. Ryoko looked into the mirror and found that the hat fitted perfectly on her head. "I think this hat looks very nice on me. What do you think, Tenchi?" Ryoko turned around and realized that Tenchi was no where close to be seen. She thought and looked around the shop and couldn't find Tenchi. She looked through the shop windows and was relieved to find him. She placed the hat back onto the hat rack and headed back outside. Outside, Tenchi was nearly done with the list, now it was coming down to the two major active contenders; Aeka and Ryoko. He looked at Aeka's results. Aeka Jurai: She's nice, polite, and worthy of great love. She's not for you. Tenchi frowned. He turned his attention to the final name on the list, Ryoko. Ryoko Hakubi: Cherish every precious moment you have with her... Was the only word that came to Tenchi's mind. "Tenchiii! So that's where you been all this time!" Ryoko said as she walked towards him. "What are you doing out here?" Tenchi was momentarily startled by Ryoko and quickly hid the paper in his pocket. "R-Ryoko! I was just, uh, enjoying the weather!" "Well follow me, Tenchi! Tell me what you think of this hat I found." Ryoko said as she went over to grab Tenchi's hand. Ryoko's hand held Tenchi's and politely pulled him into the beach shop. Tenchi looked at her joyful gesture and smiled. "Alright." They both walked into the shop and Ryoko led Tenchi straight towards the hat rack. "I've found the perfect hat, Tenchi!" Ryoko said, happily. "You have?" "Yep it's over here on the hat rack..." They reached the hat rack and to Ryoko's dismay, the hat was gone. "Where's the hat, Ryoko?" Tenchi asked. "I could've sworn it was here just a minute ago!! I placed it here myself! Help me look for it!" Ryoko said frantically. "What does it look like?" "It's a round sun hat with a blue bow-tie ribbon." They split up in separate ways and looked around the shop. Tenchi searched the front end of the store and to his surprise, the old man from the arcade was at the register, in the process of buying Ryoko's hat. He quickly walked over to the old man and the cashier in time to interrupt their business transaction. "Uh, hello, sir! Remember me!" "Why hello there, young man! Did your fortune come out the way you wanted?" "No, not exactly. But that's not why I'm here." "Oh? Then why are you bugging me?" "I wanted to speak to you about that hat you're about to buy." "Yeah? Well, forget it. I'm buying it for my granddaughter." "Could you by chance, hear me out first?" "No! Absolutely not! I'm getting this for my granddaughter and that's final!" "But..." "No buts!" the old man shouted. "Mmm, this rice cracker is so good." "What? Rice cracker?" Tenchi said, confused. "What are you talking about? You don't even have a thing in your mouth!" *** The Puppeteer Meanwhile, back at the Masaki residence, Washu was eating a rice cracker while interacting with Tenchi on her dimensional computer. "Whoops! Kinda slipped there, Heh Heh. It looks like my new toy is working well, maybe too well. Ryoko and Tenchi don't even suspect a thing." Washu said and smiled. Then she typed in more commands to input more dialogue into the android's interaction with Tenchi. Aeka's Drenched Somewhere out in the nearby woods, Shoji was looking for the Masaki residence. He had been wandering around the forest for about thirty minutes, he was about lose to patience. "Oh man!" Shoji fumed. "Now, where am I? This is so embarrassing! I can't believe I'm lost on my first day of guard duty! Those directions Yosho gave me were really bad!" He trips over a fallen branch and falls flat on his face. "OOOUUCH! That smarts!" he complained out loudly. He stood up clumsily and kicked the fallen branch off to the side. Nearby at Funaho's tree, Aeka was alone, contemplating about Tenchi and Ryoko's date. Aeka thought sadly. Suddenly, Aeka's personal introspection is coldly interrupted by a pillar of water. "Aaah! I'm all wet!" Aeka screamed out. "Who's responsible for this!?" In front of Aeka, a human male in Jurian clothing was knee deep in the water of the moat that surrounded the Holy Tree. "I'm so sorry about that my lady! I slipped on a rock and fell into this blasted moat and..." Shoji apologized in mid-sentence and gasped in an air of shock. "I'm so sorry, Princess Aeka!" Shoji bowed down to Aeka in the most earnest manner he can muster up. Aeka ringed her kimono sleeves of moisture, while at the same time, regaining her composure. "It's alright, it happens. I can assume that you're my new body guard sent here by my father." "Yes, your highness. My name is Shoji Takazawa I am a Knight of the Royal Guard." "I'm pleased to meet you but before we can continue with the introductions, I would like to go back to the house and change into much dryer and suitable clothing." "Yes, indeed. I'm sorry." They both headed back to the Masaki home not saying a word to each other. Shoji couldn't help but noticed the sad expression on the princess's face. Shoji thought. *** The Crazy Old Man Back at Naroda beach, Tenchi is still struggling to cut a deal with the old man before Ryoko finds out. "Come on!" Tenchi Begged. "No." "There's gotta be a way to cut a deal!" "Absolutely no deal. By the way, who's it for?" "It's for her." Tenchi said as he pointed at Ryoko, who's still searching for the hat. "Hmm. She looks beautiful. Not bad. You have taste, kid." The old man complemented. "Then maybe, there's still a chance?" Tenchi hoped. "No!" "What!? Oh come on! Why not?" "Because I'm having fun!" "What?! You can't be that cruel!" "Oh yes I can." "You're sick, you know that." "Of course, I know that! That's why I'm having fun." *** Ryo-ohki to the Rescue! Back to the lab, Washu was typing up a storm, laughing out through out the whole conversation. "Oh man! I'm having too much fun!" Washu said joyfully. Unbeknownst to Washu, toddler Ryo-ohki happens to be standing behind. The little toddler watched curiously as Washu typed joyfully onto the dimensional keyboard. "Meow?" Ryo-ohki said inquisitively. She frowned at Washu's meddling with Ryoko's date, then an idea popped into the little cabbit-humanoid's head. *** Back to Naroda Beach. Tenchi is still persisting with the old man. "Listen kid, I like you. I really like you but this is for my granddaughter." "I know but Ryoko is just as important." "Oh? How's she more important than my granddaughter?" "I didn't say that! I said 'Ryoko is just AS important'." Tenchi retorted. "Oh I see now! You're trying to be smart with me, eh? Well let me tell you something, mister. MEOW! MEOW! MEOW!" "Meow?!!" Tenchi said, confused. *** Back to the Lab. "Ryo-Ohki!!! Get away from here! Can't you see I'm busy!?!" Washu yelled at the cabbit. But the toddler, intentionally ignored Washu and kept on typing onto the keyboard. Ryo-ohki loves to help Tenchi in anyway possible. "Oh great! Now look what you've done! The android won't stop acting like a cat! The commands are locked!! AARRGH!" Washu screamed. *** Back to Naroda Beach. The longer Tenchi stood there and watched the old man babble on, things just keep getting stranger and stranger. The old man was on the floor licking his hand and scratching the back of his head with his leg. "What are you doing?!" Tenchi asked. "Can't you see that-MEOW, I'm uhh-MEOW, Cleaning myself?" "But you're acting like a cat!" "Of course, I'm acting like a cat! Meow! Meow! It's much more efficient this way! Don't you think?" "Uhh. Right." Ryoko finally noticed the commotion, she looked to the front of the store and found Tenchi staring down at an old man. "What's all that cat noise coming from?" Ryoko inquired. *** Back to the lab, Washu and Ryo-ohki are pushing and shoving each other, fighting over the keyboard, trying to regain control of the android. "Ryo-ohki! Stop it! You're going to get Tenchi suspicious!" "Meow! Meow!" The toddler-cabbit said angrily. "Alright fine! Sheesh! You win! I'm going to stop toying with him!" "MEOW! MEOW! MEOW!" the cabbit said victoriously. Washu grumbled as she typed in her last commands for the android. *** Back to Naroda. Ryoko walked up to Tenchi from behind and looked down at the old man who was now crawling around the floor on all four. "What's wrong with him?" Ryoko asked. "I don't know, this guy is really crazy. One minute he's acting normal the next, he's acting like a cat." The old man quickly jumped up and hands the sun hat Tenchi. "Uhh. You win! MEOW! Here you go! Here's the Hat! MEOW!" "Thank you!" Tenchi gratified. "Well gotta go! MEOW! Bye-bye!" The old man quickly exits the store on his hands and knees. "Uhh. Bye." Tenchi said, wearily. Then he turned his attentions toward the store clerk and buys the hat. He faced Ryoko and handed her the sun hat. "Here you go, Ryoko. I think this is the hat you mentioned to me about." Ryoko gasped in excitement when she received the hat from Tenchi. "Thank you, Tenchi! Here let me try it on. Tell me what you think." Ryoko placed the sun hat on her head. Tenchi looked at her carefully and smiled. He noticed that the hat enhanced her yellow eyes. "The hat fits you perfectly, Ryoko. Actually makes you look lovely and beautiful." Tenchi thought. "Really?! You mean it?" Ryoko asked excitedly. Tenchi nodded yes. "Thank you, Tenchi!" Ryoko laughed happily and hugged Tenchi in a non-aggressive manner. "Don't mention it, Ryoko. Come on let's go outside so I can take a picture of you in your new hat." "Alright." Ryoko complied happily. They both exited the store and looked around for a place to shoot Ryoko's photo. As they looked around for spot, Tenchi could not help thinking about his results from the fortune teller. Tenchi thought. [Cherish every precious moment you have with her...] The words kept beckoning to Tenchi every time he thought about it. You're Going to hate me for this, To Be Continued... The Lonely Moon (tragedy) I am lonely like the moon You are faraway as the earth Now you say I light your thoughts Night After night Soon you forget We are drifting in this dance I can feel you circle my thoughts Keeping such a graceful distance So close but somehow apart Sometimes I cry for you Knowing you don't want me to Sometimes I whisper to the stars up in the sky That I want to find the way to your soul Kiss in the sun when morning comes you don't seem to count the hours When we are not together I've seen a tender fire in your eyes Yet when I'm gone you carry on I float in this emptiness Till at last love returns With the night and the lonely moon Author's Notes 2nd: I know I know, this is a somewhat abrupt and cheesy way to get more readers. I'm doing this to keep my mind on track, so that way I won't screw up on the next chapter. Besides, the public demands more, so I gave them more. But not to worry, Naroda Beach Pt.2 is nearly halfway through. It'll focus even more on the date, Pt.1 was just to serve as a good set up. And I won't end my Fanfics like this ever again... I hope. Tenchi Muyo: Ryoko's Love...Alpha! Chapter 3A: Naroda Beach Pt.2 By Long T. Tran Disclaimer: I don't own these characters, AIC/Pioneer owns them. I don't intend to make money off this because I don't want to get a lawsuit. I'm too poor for that. But this is my original story concept, so don't plagiarize! Author's note: I apologize for the long wait, as you can see, this is by far my biggest chapter. I hope it was worth the wait for you folks. Sorry for the suspense and metal torture I might've caused. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Safe Haven Naroda Beach; blanketed under the cover of the night sky, the beach house stood silent near the water's edge. Tenchi carried Ryoko in his arms from Washu's portable boat. Ryoko was barely conscious and Tenchi was still frantic from the traumatic experience that occurred. The day went by too well to end up like this! He thought with agitation. Conveying Ryoko up the flight of stairs of the elevated beach house, the events which led up to the incident returned to Tenchi... Ice Cream! "Good! Good! Do some more of those poses!" Tenchi directed excitedly. The cool waters of Naroda beach flowed around Tenchi's feet as he took pictures of Ryoko in her newly owned sun hat. Ryoko joyfully struck her different poses at every click of the camera, having a lot of fun. She mimicked the moves of professional supermodels, sometimes, she would let loose and look silly intentionally, which made Tenchi lose control and laugh. Meanwhile, a few hundred feet away, a small crowd of the beach's young women were gathered around an object of their fascination. "Would you look at that hunk!!" said a blonde. "Yah! Look at those muscles! And that washboard muscles! Sigh!" A girl replied. "What a body! What hunk! He's sooo cute!" Said a brunette. The crowd of women parted allowing Naroda's beach hunk to get up from his posing positions. He stood up and grabbed a towel from a nearby bench press and wiped away all the sweat from his rippling chest. The women swooned and sighed in response. The Iron man obviously loved his status. As the ladies fainted, the hunk looked over to the water's edge and noticed a girl with cyan hair running along the beach doing some poses in front of a spiky-haired guy with a camera. The Herculean strongman thought excitedly. After the half hour photo session, Ryoko and Tenchi sat down at the water's edge trying to figure what to do next. Tenchi placed the camera into his pocket. "You really like taking pictures of me, don't you?" Ryoko asked. "Uhh...,I guess you can say that. I'm really getting into this, it helps me relax." "Well, that's nice to hear. So, what do you want to do next?" "Hmm. I really don't know." Tenchi said. He looked across the sandy beach and noticed an ice cream stand. "The only thing that comes to mind is getting some ice cream to cool down a bit." "I'm feeling a little warm, myself. Sounds good to me." Ryoko agreed. "Besides, maybe some ice cream will help us decide on our next move. Food for thought." "I couldn't agree more." "Okay, then. You stay here while I go fetch some. What would you like?" Tenchi, asked. "I just want a plain vanilla ice cream cone." "Alright, I'll be back." Tenchi stood up and walked off to go buy the ice cream. Ryoko watched as he walked away, as soon as Tenchi was gone, Ryoko smiled happily to herself. Ryoko thought as she tipped her sun hat to make it more comfortable. As Ryoko waited for Tenchi's return, she watched little children swam and played in the water. Suddenly, she was covered by another person's shadow. "Excuse me." Said a strong voice. "Yes?" Ryoko responded. Ryoko looked up to find, possibly, Naroda beach's most muscular man. To Ryoko's awe, he had huge arms, a thick barrel neck, pecks that resembled concrete slabs, and legs that could support steel beams. The iron man had a full mane of black hair, his skin was fair bronze and his eyes were golden brown. "I couldn't help but notice how natural you looked, acting like a supermodel a few minutes ago. You looked absolutely stunning." "Thank you." Ryoko said in her most gracious manner, trying not let the stranger annoy her. "And what is your name?" "My name's Ryoko. Yours?" "My name is Goro." "Well, nice to meet you, Goro. I'd love to chat with you but I'm currently enjoying my date with somebody else." Ryoko said bluntly. "Oh. You mean THAT little guy who's pointing his camera at you?" Goro asked while pointing at Tenchi. "Yes. Him." Ryoko confirmed, frowning at Goro's insult of Tenchi. Meanwhile, it was really hot and Tenchi anticipated the taste of the ice-cold- sweet-taste of vanilla ice cream. [Cherish every precious moment you have with her...] those strange words just kept lingering in his mind every time he thought about the Fortune telling Machine. It was finally Tenchi's turn to order. He walked up to the window and found that the clerk was one of his old school mates (from the currently undergoing reconstruction of Okayama High School). A schoolmate that he can never forget, the guy was fat, very thick lips, thick octangular glasses, and short dandruffy hair. "Tenchi? Tenchi Masaki?!" "Amagasaki? Is that you?" "It sure is! How are you?" "I'm doing fine and you?" "Just working and saving up some money. Say, I noticed that girl you're with. She looks pretty hot! Is she your girlfriend?" "Well, no. Not exactly." "Then what? Your sister?" "No, no! She's uh,...just a friend." "Oh, just a friend. Well then, in that case, could you introduce me to her?" "What?" Tenchi started. "You said she's just a friend, right? I find her very attractive." Amagasaki said, very interested. Unaware of his facial expression, Tenchi frowned slightly at Amagasaki's request. "I would really like to but I can't." Tenchi replied. "You see, she's not my girlfriend, family, or just a friend." "Oh? What do you mean?" "Well, um, she's my date. And I'm trying to get to know her a little better. You understand that, right?" "Oh sure! I'm so sorry about that!" "It's okay, it happens." "What would you like to order?" Amagasaki said, changing the issue. "Just two cones of vanilla ice cream." "Coming right up!" Amagasaki carried out Tenchi's order quickly and handed the ice cream cones to Tenchi. "Wow! Thanks! How much?" Tenchi asked as he licked his ice cream. "That'll be 200 yen." Tenchi paid the clerk. Suddenly, something in the back of his mind brought back the words of the Fortune telling machine... "Cherish every precious moment you have with her". Tenchi looked over qt Ryoko's direction and noticed a huge, muscular man talking to her. "Uh oh." Amagasaki said uneasily. "Uh oh, what?" Tenchi asked. "You better watch out, Tenchi. That guy's hitting on your date." "You know him?" "No but I've seen him work his charm. He would hit on some girl regardless, single or not, and then later on, he would break the poor girl's heart." "Is that so..." Tenchi said, not having realized that he was frowning even more. Goro "So...,Ryoko." Goro addressed, showing off his muscles in different Iron-man poses. "What." Ryoko replied, growing more annoyed of the strongman's presence. "What do you see in that little runt?" "Excuse me?" "You know, that little runt you're with. What's his name?" "Tenchi." Ryoko said, growling. "Oh right, Tenchi." Goro said smugly, rippling his pecks at Ryoko. Ryoko rolled her eyes and finally lost her patience. "Look, Goro. I am really getting annoyed here. Why don't you Amscre', ok?" "You're telling me? The 'Great Goro' to scram?" "That's right." "How can you say something like that? No girl can't resist this!" Goro said, pointing at his abs and muscular features. "I can." Ryoko replied coldly. Ryoko looked over and noticed Tenchi returning. Ryoko was relieved to see Tenchi, she smiled. She turned and looked up at Goro. "Here comes my Tenchi." Ryoko warned. "Oh he is, is he?" Goro said confidently and turned around. Tenchi arrived holding to two ice cream cones in his hands, he walked passed Goro and stood in front of Ryoko. "Here you go, Ryoko." Tenchi said, handing Ryoko her ice cream cone. Ryoko happily received the cool treat and proceeded to lick off the vanilla. Goro cleared his throat and tapped Tenchi's shoulders. "Excuse me." Tenchi turned around and faced Goro. "Yes? Can I help you?" "Yes, you can. By handing me over your pretty little date." Ryoko sighed in an exasperated manner, she continued on with her ice cream. "E-excuse me?" Tenchi said, nervously. "Yeah, you heard me. I'm taking your date." Tenchi glanced over to Ryoko with a confused looked, trying to figure out the muscle man's aggressive intentions. In response to Tenchi's silent question, Ryoko shrugged. "Pardon me but, uh...I didn't catch your name." "My name's Goro and I am THE hunk of this beach." Goro said with full bravado. "Uh, right." Tenchi replied uneasily Meanwhile, behind the ice cream stand, the funny old man from the Beach Accessories shop watched as events unfolded between Goro and Tenchi. *** Washu Washu watched through the eyes of her invention with full attentiveness. Ryo- ohki stood behind her and watched. For nearly half an hour after the "Cat-Man" incident, both had been quiet to each other, having agreed not to intervene on Ryoko's date. The "Cat-Man" incident nearly exposed Washu's invention and things could've escalated. Fortunately for Washu, things didn't. But as Washu and Ryo-ohki were about to leave Tenchi and Ryoko alone, a huge man walked up to Ryoko. After another few minutes, the bigger man started to harass Tenchi. Washu and Ryo-ohki both frowned at the computer screen. "Ryo-ohki, we've got to do something about that big lug. I don't know about you but I'm willing to bend the rules of our agreement." "Miya." Ryo-ohki agreed. "How should we take care of this big lug, hmm?" The humanoid cabbit held her little chin and thought for a moment. After a long silent minute, an idea finally came to mind. Immediately, Ryo-ohki transferred her idea to Washu through their mental link. "That's a cool idea! Why didn't I think of that?" Washu exclaimed. Washu typed onto her holocomputer at lightning speed. Changing the form, size and shape of the android. Ryo-ohki shrugged and sent an insulting thought to Washu. "Oh hush!" Washu barked. "Don't let it go to your head that you thought of it first!" Ryo-ohki beamed happily as Washu continued on typing. Aeka's New Bodyguard Meanwhile, back to the blue-roofed Masaki home, Aeka and Shoji had just finished changing into much drier clothing. Both sat across from each other from the living room area, waiting on Sasami to bring out some tea. All day long, the thought of Tenchi and Ryoko being together for one day worried Aeka deeply. As if things weren't enough, her father had to send in a new body guard to protect her. Aeka studied Shoji for a couple of long, silent minutes trying to figure out her father's motives on why he replaced her guardians with Shoji. Not wanting to make Shoji feel like a spy under an interrogating light, she decided to start a simple, friendly question and answer conversation. "Pardon me for being cold to you a little bit earlier." "No not at all, your highness. I deserved that treatment, after all, I did get you drenched and I apologize for that clumsy display." "It is alright. It is in the past, no need for any further apologies." Aeka assured. "As you wish." Shoji said with relief. Aeka smiled softly. "I did not quite catch your full name, what was it again?" "My name is Shoji Takazawa of the Juraian Royal Guard." "Takazawa?" Aeka said inquisitively. The name seemed familiar to her somehow. "Yes." Shoji replied. "Hmm..." Aeka sounded as she thought through her memory. As Aeka dug through her memories, Sasami walked out of the kitchen carrying a tray with tea and crackers, ready to serve. "Here you go!" Said the cheerful blue-haired princess. Shoji had an awe-struck look on his face. "Princess Sasami, you're serving tea and crackers?" "Yes? Is there a problem?" Asked the young one. "No, none at all. I just find it very interesting that a Juraian noble is serving and cooking." "Oh! Well, I don't mind doing it. I find it a very fulfilling experience." "Fulfilling? How so?" Shoji inquired curiously. "I enjoy cooking mainly because it feels good. I don't know. It's just the fact that I'm just so darn good at it!" "Very fascinating." "You think so?" Asked Sasami. "Yes, of course it is! It's not everyday a Juraian noble decided to serve food just for the sheer joy of it. This shows very good character." "Thanks Shoji!" Sasami blushed. "My pleasure, your highness." At that very moment, Yosho walked into the house. He stepped over to the living room area. Shoji stood up from the sofa and bowed his head to greet the old man. "Greetings, Prince Yosho." "No need for formalities, Shoji. You're on earth now and I don't want the locals seeing a young man, like yourself, bowing to a Shinto priest in such a formal manner." "Indeed. As you wish." "So how do you like your new assignment, Shoji?" "As far as I know, I think it's very unusual." Yosho lifted an eyebrow and smiled. "Oh? How so?" "It's just so laid-back back on this planet." "Do you find this unsettling?" Asked Yosho. "Oh no!" Shoji replied immediately. "I find that the countryside here is very beautiful and it rivals that of Jurai's. And for the sheer fact of knowing that the presiding Juraian nobles are happy to be here." "You are a very perceptive one, Shoji." Yosho complimented. "Yeah, well, anyhow. That's basically my thoughts." As the two Juraian males conversed, Aeka watched silently. She found herself distracted from thinking about Tenchi and started to focus her full attention onto Shoji. Aeka thought. Aeka smiled at the thought. She shivered at the thought of Seriyou. Sasami tugged at Aeka's sleeve. "Psst! Hey Aeka." Sasami whispered. "What is it, Sasami?" "Don't you think he's cute?" "Sasami!" Aeka whispered back, loudly. "What?" Sasami asked innocently. "Do not ask me that sort of question! This is neither the time nor place!" "Alright. Then I'll just ask you later." Aeka sighed exasperatedly. Both girls focused their attentions on Yosho and Shoji. "You are an interesting character, Shoji." "Thank you. Your words are too kind." "You're welcome." Yosho responded. Then he had an idea. "By the way, since I'm responsible for Aeka's safety, I have to make sure if you're qualified enough to protect her." "I understand your concern for the crown princess's well-being. How do you propose to test my capabilities?" "I want to see how well you hold out against me." The trio were stunned by Yosho's proposal. Shoji regained his composure. "You mean to tell me that you want to challenge me in a mock duel?" "That is correct." Replied Yosho. "Meet me at the shrine in half an hour. I look forward in seeing what you're capable of." "My sentiment's exact." Shoji said confidently. *** Goro the Big Lug "Listen, buddy, get it through your thick skull!" Ryoko yelled. "I don't want to go anywhere with you! So quit bugging us!" "Don't sweat it babe. I'll liberate you from this little runt in no time." Said Goro. "Who're you calling a RUNT?!" Tenchi asked, finally losing patience, his fists clenched tightly. "I don't see any other runt around here, do you?" Goro replied, poking his finger on Tenchi. "Or do you want to settle this in a man's way?" Goro grinned, cracking his knuckles. "You leave Tenchi alone!!" Ryoko barked, jumped and stood between Tenchi and Goro. "You're not laying a finger on him!" "Stand aside, I'll release you of this burden!" Goro demanded. "Burden?!?" Tenchi yelled, quizzically. "Why you, stuck up, arrogant, chauvenistic..." Tenchi's noticed his explosive remarks and realized his verbal mistake, too late. "Oh good! Those sounded like fightin' words!" Goro said excitedly, flexing himself, warming up for a brawl. He steps closer to Tenchi but Ryoko pushes Goro back away. "If you're going to hurt him! You're going to have to get through me first!" Ryoko proclaimed. "Ryoko, let's not get into this any deeper than it should be. Let's just leave him." Tenchi said, calmly. He grabbed Ryoko's right arm and gently pulled her away from Goro. "Oh no you don't!" Goro yelled out. He grabbed Ryoko's left arm and started pulling. "You're not getting her that easily!" "Hey! Let go of me, you idiot!" Ryoko screamed. "Tenchi!" "Let go of her! Can't you see that she doesn't want to go with you?" Tenchi said, pulling on Ryoko. "She's mine, I tell you!" Goro replied as he tugged. "Tenchiii!" "I'm doing the best I can!" "You two stop pulling on me!! This is really getting painful!" Ryoko cringed. "No way! I'm not giving up until I have her!!" Goro affirmed. "Let her go! You're hurting her!!" Tenchi yelled, pulling on Ryoko. "Ouch ouch ouch! Stop it, the both of you! You're tearing me apart!" Throughout this ordeal, Ryoko realized something about Tenchi. Ryoko thought and frowned. The two continued pulling. Suddenly, a hypnotic, sexy female voice is heard. "Boys, boys, no need to fight over one girl. I'm here." Tenchi, Ryoko, and Goro suddenly stopped and turned their heads towards the mysterious voice. A tall, silky brunette, perfect tan skin, full red lips, perfect curvy-athletic figure, and last but not least the young lady was a white foreigner. Tenchi, Goro, and Ryoko stopped their bickering and were stunned by the beauty of the new girl. Ryoko was dropped to the sandy ground. The brunette swept her hair back and walked towards the Trio. Tenchi quickly swayed his attention from the girl and helped Ryoko to her feet. "My name is Venus, Venus de Milo. Miya." Goro straightened up and regained his composure. He brushed back his black mane of hair and cleared his throat. "My name is Goro, uh, Goro de Marco." Goro said and showed off his sparkly row of teeth. "Goro, eh?" Venus said with curious interest. She walked towards Goro. Seizing the opportunity, Ryoko turned, faced Tenchi and pointed towards the ocean waters. Tenchi nodded back understanding Ryoko's gesture. Suddenly, both jumped to their feet and sprinted towards the waves. Goro saw Tenchi and Ryoko ran off through the corner of his eye, he ignored the two and focused his full attention onto the more beautiful girl named Venus. "So, Venus." Goro smirked. "Now that we're both alone. How should we better acquaint ourselves?" "You want to know? Miya." Venus asked, seductively. She stepped closer to Goro and ran her fingers down his chest. "Oh yeah." "Then I'll show you..." She said. Venus stepped away from Goro and walked towards a secluded back area of the seaside hotel. "Follow me." She blew a kiss at Goro. Goro happily obliged Venus's enticing invitation. After a few minutes of following Venus, they finally reached the seclusion. The seclusion was perfect, it's away from any outside contact and they could do anything they wanted. Venus turned and faced Goro with yearning eyes. "So, what now?" Goro asked sheepishly. "What do you think, you fool?! Kiss me!! Miya!" Venus exclaimed and ran towards Goro's open arms. They embraced each other and kissed each other full force. Goro closed his eyes letting all his senses focus on Venus's working lips. He held her tighter and kissed like he never kissed before. After a long sensual moment, he opened his eyes, his eyes bulged out of their sockets. The site he saw was absolutely shocking! Instead of finding himself kissing a beautiful foreign girl in his embrace, he was lip-locking with an old man! An old, decrepit, short, and wrinkled up man was kissing him. "AAAAAAAAAAHHHH!" Goro screamed, dropping the old man to the ground. Goro started to spit and gag all over the sands. "What the-?! Where's Venus? What have you done to her?" "Oh, Venus? Miya! She's gone. She wanted me to take care of you. Miya!" "What? Where's Venus?" Goro asked again while gagging. "Miya! Geez, you are thick-headed, aren't you? Miya! Oh well, makes it easier for me." Said, the old man. "Miya!" "W-What do you mean?" Goro said nervously. "Miya? Why are you meowing like a cat?" The old man did not answer, he suddenly turned into a mass of green gelatin and enveloped Goro. Goro struggled vainly for several minutes but finally gave out. The green gelatin flashed bright red and released Goro. The green gelatin reverted back to the form of an old man. The old man clapped and rubbed his hands together, content with the results. "There! All finished! No more kitty-cat bugs in the system! I'm cured!" Said the old man. Looking down at Goro, who was now crawling around the sands on all fours like a cat. "Miya! Miya! Miya!" Goro meowed. "I am a genius!" "Miya!" Goro replied. Then he stopped crawling, he sat on one spot, lifted his leg and started licking his underside. "Well, looks like my work here is done. Switching off..." *** Washu and Ryo-ohki "Yes! Alright! We've succeeded, Ryo-ohki!" Washu said, giving the toddler a high five. "Miya!! Miya!" The cabbit toddler exclaimed. "Okay, we've had enough fun for one day." "Miya..." Ryo-ohki said disappointedly. "I know I know. Let's just leave the two of them alone, alright? We've helped them enough, they're on their own from this point on." "Miya! Miya?" Ryo-ohki asked with a hint of concern for Goro. "Don't be silly! I'm not that cruel! Don't worry, the big lug will come out of that cat trance in a day or two." "Miya!" Washu switched her holocomputer off and the screen disappeared. Washu stood up from her chair and stretched. "Let's go see what the others are up to." "Miya! Miya!" Ryo-ohki said happily. The toddler jumped up with a loud pop, and in mid-air, suddenly turned into a cabbit. The cabbit landed on top of Washu's head. "Heh heh, Cute little furrball." Washu smiled, patted the cabbit, and made her way towards the exit door. Shoji Vs. Yosho Shoji, Sasami, and Aeka finally arrived at the front of the shrine. Yosho stood patiently, ready and waiting. Shoji stepped away from Aeka and Sasami and stood three yards in front of Yosho. Aeka and Sasami sat at the steps of the entrance of the Shrine. "Are you ready, Shoji?" Asked, Yosho. "I'm ready." "Good, we'll duel with these." Yosho said, he threw a bokken over to Shoji. Shoji caught the bokken with his left hand and immediately postured into a Juraian ready stance. "What are the rules?" "The rule is: First one to successfully strike one blow to the other's chest, wins. No rematches, 'three out of fives', or anything likewise." "Understood." "Let's begin." Yosho said and stood ready for the duel. Silence passed over, during this, Shoji knew exactly what Yosho was capable of as a Swordsman. Before Yosho left Jurai, seven hundred years ago, he was considered the best and greatest swordsman on Jurai. Shoji would hear stories about Yosho's powerful skills and how he would devoutly practice his techniques daily. Shoji respected Yosho as a swordsman and what he stood for, at the time of Ryoko's Attack on Jurai, Shoji was merely a young Royal Squire in his fourth year of training. In a way, Yosho was his role model and the pinnacle of all the values Shoji believed in. And now, he had the chance to see how well his skills will hold out against Yosho's, a chance to see how years of training and experience has shaped him as a swordsman. As Yosho waited for Shoji's first strike, Yosho thought about the news that surrounded Aeka's new bodyguard. A few days ago, after having received the message from the king of Jurai that Shoji was to be Aeka's new Guardian, Yosho decided to do a little research on Shoji's past. Courtesy of Washu's hyper channel communicator that was installed into his room. Yosho was able to talk to one of his closest friends from childhood, Shoji's superior commander. The talk with his long-time friend, Naoju, proved to be most interesting. Shoji had served in the Royal Guard for the past several hundred years and had shown great potential as a swordsman. From what Naoju had told Yosho, Shoji had been through quite a lot in his service and has attained a great amount of experience. Yosho considered these points and decided to be extra cautious. After a silent minute, Yosho and Shoji charged each other at a blinding speed. Running and swinging his bokken, Shoji passed Yosho and missed. He immediately turned around and deflected Yosho's strike. Shoji back-flipped over Yosho's head and landed behind him and swung. Not fast enough, Shoji missed Yosho again, Yosho had leapt forward to avoid Shoji's strike. As the two Juraian males fought on, Aeka and Sasami watched with great interest. Aeka watched as her older brother charged Shoji, she was grateful that the duel helped her distract her thoughts away from Tenchi. But then again, she thought about Tenchi anyways, for some odd reason she knew that things were going to change between Tenchi, Ryoko, and herself. Aeka felt extreme anxiety, not wanting to know on how things will turn out after their date. Aeka buried the frightening thought and continued on watching the duel to distract herself away from thinking about Tenchi and Ryoko. She refocused her attention back to the duel. "So this is where you girls are." Washu said, sitting down next Aeka. "Oh, hello Washu." Aeka greeted. "Hi, Washu!" Sasami greeted happily. Ryo-ohki hopped from Washu's head and onto Sasami's. The little princess welcomed the cabbit with a giggle. "Well! I'm going to go make some lunch!" Sasami jumped up from the steps and ran towards the house. "I'll be back with the food!" And ran off with Ryo-ohki enjoying her ride, atop the princess's head. "See you later, Sasami!" Washu yelled out and looked over and noticed the duel between Yosho and a person she had never seen before. "Hey, who's the new guy?" Washu, asked. "He is my new guardian." Aeka answered. "New guardian?" Washu inquired further. "Since when?" "Since this morning, my father has reassigned Azaka and Kamadake to protect Sasami and they were replaced by Shoji." "Hmm. Really..." Washu said curiously. "Yes. Really." "I wonder why my father would do that in the first place. The two guardians did a sufficient job with my protection. Why would he suddenly replace them?" "Gee, I wonder why, Aeka..." Washu said sarcastically. Washu thought for a second, she checked over to Aeka. Washu looked over to Shoji and peered back to Aeka, the genius noticed that the princess was paying extra close attention to the fight. Washu thought and smiled deviously. With a simple whim of her hand, she brought out her holocomputer and started to type away. Aeka noticed and faced Washu with a curious look. "Washu, what are you doing?" "Oh I'm just doing some miscellaneous study. I just wanted to collect some data on Juraian biological fighting mechanics, you know, the study of movement." "Oh, I see." Aeka said with fascination. "You never seem to stop studying, do you?" "Nope." "I figure you would say that. You never-ending bookworm." Aeka teased and smiled. Washu ignored Aeka and continued on studying the two fighters. The holocomputer lit up with a flurry of information. Washu beamed at the newly acquired data. "Very interesting..." Washu said contently. Aeka sighed. "You are hopeless." *** Oh! Hello, Dolphin! After ditching Goro at the shore, Tenchi and Ryoko swam around in clear blue waters for a few minutes. Already putting Goro way back in the back of their thoughts, both laughed and enjoyed the cool refreshing ocean waters. They were about twenty five yards away from the shore, both stopped swimming and stood up. Ryoko stood next to Tenchi, to their surprise, the water was only chest-level. Ryoko still wore her red tank top and jean shorts over her bikini. Tenchi was just wearing his swimming trunks. Annoyed by the weight of her wet clothing, Ryoko took off her shorts and red tank top to expose her swim attire. "Ah! Now that feels better!" Ryoko said with relief and threw her clothes aside into the water. Tenchi noticed Ryoko's disregard for her clothing. "Uhh..., Ryoko. Won't you need to change into those after we finish swimming?" "Nah, no need. I have another pair back at the beach house." Ryoko looked over to the shore of the beach and found that Goro wasn't there. "Phew! Thank god he's gone!" She exclaimed. "Tell me about it. That was the first time anybody knew how to push my buttons. That guy was so full of himself." Tenchi said. Ryoko nodded in agreement. Then, she heard a peculiar squeaking sound coming from behind, Ryoko turned around and was suddenly overtaken by excitement. She walked towards the source of the sound. Leaving Tenchi behind. "Well, that's the end of him. I sure hope he doesn't bother us anymore. So what do you want to do now, Ryoko?" Tenchi asked. He turned to his left side to face Ryoko but she wasn't near. "Uh..., Ryoko?" Tenchi scanned around for her in the surrounding waters. Ryoko was no where to be seen. "Ryokooo! Where are youuu?" Tenchi inquired. Through the corner of his eye he briefly saw a blur pass beside him. "What the...?" Suddenly, Tenchi was enveloped by a pillar of water. He found himself briefly underwater, Tenchi quickly jumped up and broke the water surface. He spat out the briny contents of the seawater and heard Ryoko's laughter. "YIPPEEEE!" Ryoko cheered happily, as she held on to the dolphin's flipper, riding through the water. "R-Ryoko?" "Look at me, Tenchi! I'm riding a shark!" "That's not a shark!" Tenchi laughed as he watched the blue dolphin pulled Ryoko above the water's surface. Ryoko freed herself from the dolphin and swam towards Tenchi. "Then what was that, I was riding on?" "That's a dolphin. Blue-nosed, I think." "Oh yeah, that's right. A shark's a little bit more dangerous, isn't it?" "Uh-huh." "Are there any around these waters?" "Nope not that I know of. I don't remember hearing about any news of shark attacks around the Naroda area." "Oh ok, then I won't worry about it." The little dolphin swam up to Tenchi. "Uh..., hello!" Tenchi greeted to the porpoise. The dolphin whistles and click in return. "Looks like it likes you, Tenchi." "You think so?" Tenchi asked and looked over to Ryoko. Ryoko grinned and nodded to Tenchi. "Ah! I guess I have my ways with animals." Tenchi said happily turned over to face the dolphin. "Cute little..." Suddenly, Tenchi was cut off mid-sentence by a huge spurt of water from the dolphin's mouth. Ryoko hugged herself and laughed out loud at Tenchi's wet reception. As Ryoko chuckled jovially, Tenchi coughed hard spitting out the salty water from his mouth. The dolphin swam vertically atop the ocean's surface and moved backwards. Then it disappeared below the surface of the water. "Hahaha!" Ryoko laughed. "Quit laughing! That's not funny!" "For you it wasn't, but for me on the other hand..." Ryoko cut herself off and continued on laughing. "Oh yeah?" Tenchi said deviously. He immediately splashed the laughing Ryoko with a small wave of water. Ryoko coughed and gave Tenchi a furious look. "Now that's funny! HAHAHAHA!" Tenchi chuckled. "Oh, is that right?" Ryoko challenged. "I am the water queen!" She immediately splashed water at Tenchi's direction but he ducked into the crystal clear water to avoid Ryoko's attack. Tenchi suddenly popped back up and splashed Ryoko even more. "I've got you! Water queen!" Tenchi proclaimed gallantly, splashing Ryoko even further. "AAH!" Ryoko yelled happily, shielding the incoming water with her arms. Ryoko gasped with a shocked look in her eyes. She pointed her finger at an object behind Tenchi. "Look! I can't believe it! There's Washu!" Tenchi's laugh disappeared. "Huh? Where?" "Sucker! Gotcha!" Ryoko exclaimed and splashed Tenchi. "Oh! Being sneaky, eh?" Both continued splashing water at each other, giggling. When suddenly, they here a strange rumbling-wavy sound coming from the open sea. "uhh..., Ryoko? Do you hear that?" Ryoko nodded. Tenchi and Ryoko turned around to see where the sound was emanating from. "AAAAHHH!" Both screamed simultaneously as a whole pod of dolphins swam past by, causing a huge onslaught of water. After being drenched by the wave of sea water, Tenchi and Ryoko stood up and stared at the laughing porpoises. *** Lunch! Sasami returned to the shrine, carrying with her a tray full of lunch. The edibles were mostly comprised of finger foods and enough rice bowls to feed the group. Sasami sat down next to Aeka and Washu. Sasami reached into her pocket and grabbed an orange carrot. She held the carrot in hand and reached over her head and offered it to Ryo-ohki. The cabbit happily accepted. Washu smiled slightly and switched off her holocomputer. She reached over to the food trey and grabbed a deep-fried vegetable. Aeka did likewise. "Lunch is ready!" Sasami shouted to the dueling Juraians. "Oh great! I'm starving!" Shoji exclaimed as he deflected one of Yosho's strike. "Mmm..., likewise." Yosho added, as he dodged under Shoji's swing. Both ran towards the steps of the shrine, swinging and striking at each other. Seeing this, Aeka, Sasami, and Washu screamed and quickly moved out of harm's way. "Yosho!" Aeka said angrily. "You are carrying this way out of hand!" "Relax, Aeka. We're trained professionals, Shoji and I know what we're doing." Yosho retorted as he dodged another Shoji's swings and quickly grabbed a rice bowl. "You could have warned us that you were going to..." "Let them have their fun, Aeka." Washu jumped in. "After all boys will be boys." "Oh fine." Aeka said harshly. Shoji immediately grabbed his rice bowl and jumped back to avoid Yosho's bokken. Holding the rice bowl in his left hand, Yosho poured the contents of the bowl down his mouth and rapidly chewed. Shoji charged Yosho while putting the bowl back in it's place on Sasami's tray. "Thanks, princess Sasami." He said as he passed the princess. "My pleasure!" Sasami returned. Shoji immediately jumped up again to avoid Yosho's bokken swipe. Yosho passed by Sasami and placed his bowl onto the tray. "Thank you, Sasami." Yosho gratified the princess as he charged towards Shoji. "Sure thing, Yosho!" Sasami said happily. And so, Yosho and Shoji continued on with their battle... Washu started her way back towards the house. "Well, girls I'm heading' back home. I've gathered more than enough data for my research and from what I can conclude. I can tell where this fight's going to head and it'll be a VERY long while until they reach the end. See you two later." "Alright." Remarked, Aeka. "See you later Washu!" Said, Sasami. "Miya! Miya!" Followed the cabbit. *** S. O. S. Further away from the beach's shore, Tenchi and Ryoko laughed, played, and enjoyed the time of their lives with their new-found mammal friends. The water was already eight feet in depth and Tenchi stayed with the main pod. While Ryoko wanders off with her favorite dolphin, separating from the group. She happily named the dolphin 'Echo', mainly because of the deep sounds it made. With the memories of Goro far buried in her mind, Ryoko swam underwater along side with the young mid-sized dolphin. Due to her yellow-feral eyes, Ryoko's eyesight underwater was ten times keener compared to all humans. Ryoko swam close and grabbed onto the left flipper of the porpoise. The dolphin happily pulled Ryoko along the water. As the ceiling of water passed over her head, Ryoko noticed a little boy a few yards ahead. Ryoko thought curiously. She signaled the dolphin to swim closer to investigate. As they drew closer, Ryoko quickly realized that the little kid was clearly face down, bobbing up and down in the water. They broke the surface and finally reached the boy and Ryoko quickly examined him. His eyes were closed and he wasn't breathing. Ryoko thought to herself. She did her best over the moving water to check his pulse, she examined the little one's neck. She concentrated for a moment. She found a very faint but fading pulse. Ryoko quickly signaled Echo to swim over. She held on to the boy tight and grabbed onto Echo's flipper. The dolphin sped towards the beach's shore. Meanwhile, Tenchi popped up through the surface of the water, marveled at being around dolphins for the very first time in his life. "I will never forget this day, Ryoko. How are you enjoying it so far?" Tenchi asked and waited a moment for Ryoko's reply. "Ryoko?" No answer. Tenchi looked around for Ryoko, she wasn't nearby. "Grrr! I hate it when she does that!" Tenchi growled. "Now where did she go?" "Teenchiii!!" Ryoko screamed. Tenchi quickly looked around and spotted Ryoko. "I've found a kid! He's not well, I'm going to help him!" Tenchi found her riding towards the shore of the beach at a very rapid pace. He quickly signaled a dolphin over and he held onto it's dorsal fin. The dolphin clicked and squeaked, Tenchi patted it's head and the dolphin sped off towards the shore like a torpedo. Ryoko had already carried the kid in her arms to the shore, the youngster had lost his pulse. She carefully placed him on a blanket that was laying nearby on the sand. A curious crowd started to gather around Ryoko. "Okay, folks! I need some room!" Ryoko demanded. The crowd curiously watched and whispered to each other as Ryoko positioned the boy on his back. She placed his back and neck in an upward position to open up a clear airway. Ryoko opened his mouth and started to blew in air into his lungs. Tenchi had reached the gathered crowd. He pushed his way through, he reached the center of the commotion and found Ryoko performing CPR to a young child. He watched as Ryoko tried to start up the boy's circulation by pumping his chest with her clasped hands. He quickly realized that his camera was still in his pocket from earlier. He quickly pulled out the camera and started to take pictures. "Come on! Breathe!" Ryoko yelled out. She breathed into his lungs. After three breaths, she went back to pumping his heart. Finally, after a minute of CPR, the boy quickly turned to his side. He started to convulse violently, he coughed and spat out water from his lungs. The surrounding crowd cheered and celebrated at Ryoko's quick life-saving actions. A girl stepped out from the crowd and wraps a blanket around the young boy. Several others gathered around Ryoko, they hugged, patted her on the shoulders and also shook hands with her. Tenchi watched as the crowd congratulated Ryoko on a job well done. Tenchi smiled at Ryoko, very proud of her. Ryoko looked over to Tenchi and smiled at him. The same words ran through his mind. He took the last two remaining pictures of Ryoko giving out a victory sign at the camera. After taking the pictures, he placed the camera back into his pocket. He walked through the talking crowd that surrounded Ryoko. Tenchi finally reached her and hugged her. "Well done, Ryoko." "Thank you, Tenchi." Ryoko said, hugging back. "Excuse me, miss?" Said a young voice. "Yes?" as she turned away from Tenchi and looked down to find that the little kid she saved was standing, wrapped in a blanket. A lifeguard stood next to him, holding him by the arm. "Thank you for saving my life." "No need to thank me. Sorry I couldn't have been there any sooner." "Better late than never." The boy retorted. He bowed his head to Ryoko. "I thank you again. By the way, my name's Haruo." "My name's Ryoko and this is Tenchi." Haruo turned to Tenchi and greeted him with a bow. "Hello, Tenchi." "Hello, Haruo." Tenchi returned the boy's greeting. "Is Ryoko you're girlfriend? You're a very lucky." Haruo winked. "Well..." Tenchi said nervously. "She's more like a date." Ryoko sighed under her breath. The crowd had begun to disperse. "Oh, sorry if I said something wrong." Haruo apologized. "No, not at all!" Tenchi said quickly. "My father owns that seaside hotel, over there." Haruo pointed towards the hotel. "I would very much like to repay you back by inviting you to the Annual Naroda Beach dance." "We'll be there, tonight." Said Ryoko and Tenchi. "What time will it start?" Asked Tenchi. "It'll start in an hour at eight o'clock." "Eight o'clock?" Tenchi said a little startled. He looked at his sports watch and realized how much time has quickly passed. The time was seven o'clock. "Wow." Tenchi commented. "Okay?" Asked, Haruo. "Okay we'll see you then." Said, Ryoko. "Alright!" Haruo exclaimed. He hugs Ryoko. "I'll see you later then! Bye!" Haruo runs off towards the seaside hotel. "Sweet kid." Ryoko commented. "Yeah." Tenchi agreed. He turned to Ryoko. "So..." "So what?" Ryoko asked. "What shall we do now until eight o'clock?" "Let's just watch the sunset together, ok?" Ryoko suggested. "Umm..., Alright." Tenchi and Ryoko sat down next to each other on the sand and peered out to the ocean horizon. The Sun is only a quarter of an hour away until it actually starts setting. Still proud of Ryoko's life saving actions, Tenchi decided to reach over and hold Ryoko's right hand. Both decided not to ruin the beauty of the setting horizon, so they kept silent for the duration of what's left of daylight. Ryoko felt Tenchi's hand held her right hand. Not knowing what to think or say, Ryoko blushed instead and gazed onto the sea as the sun begun it's process to kiss it's horizon. *** The Duel's Conclusion The crimson sky had begun to sink over the Okayama countryside approaching the dark night. Yosho and Shoji had managed to move the fight over from the shrine, through the woods, and finally ending up at the lake. For four hours the duel carried on, neither one had any intention of losing but they were both getting really tired. Aeka watched the duel from the house, she leaned against the frame of her bedroom window and found that the two Juraian males were on opposite sides of the lake. She watched as Yosho jumped up from his side of the lake, leaping several meters into the air. Aeka looked over and found Shoji doing likewise. Both clashed and swung at each other in mid-air over the lake. Their bokkens collided with each other as they fell straight towards the water. Instead of falling straight through, they landed on the surface of the lake! Both ran across the top of the lake, as if on solid ground breaking the rules of physics. Shoji and Yosho swung and struck at each other, as they neared the shore of the lake, suddenly, at the very last minute before reaching solid ground, Shoji slipped on a patch of mud. He fell face forward into the muddy shore of the lake. Yosho seized the opportunity and tagged Shoji's chest with his bokken. Shoji stood up and noticed that his clothes were completely covered in muck. "Great." Shoji commented as he looked at the dark-brown muck on his clothing. Then Shoji hears an elegant giggle emanating from the house. He immediately spotted Princess Aeka chuckling from a second-story window. Shoji blushed slightly. Yosho walked over and placed his right hand on Shoji's shoulder. "There there, no need to feel defeated. You held up very well against me. One of the longest duels I've ever had." "Thank you, Prince Yosho." "Please, just call me Yosho but I rather much prefer Katsuhito. I want to treat you as an equal, rather than a servant. Princess Aeka will treat you likewise and I expect you to treat us in the same manner." "Understood. It'll take some getting use to but I'll try, nevertheless. Thank you, again." "Your skills as a knight are exceptional. If you hadn't slipped, the duel would've lasted longer. But considering how well you held up against me, I consider you the same equivalent to my capabilities. I feel safe that you're Aeka's new guardian." "You're too kind." Shoji said modestly. "I shall do my keenest to protect her with my life." "I don't doubt it. Why don't you go and wash up." Yosho suggested. Shoji nodded in agreement. He turned and bowed to Yosho, Yosho returned the gesture. Then, Shoji walked off to go change. Yosho watched as Shoji left. "Eww..." Yosho commented as he looked at his right hand and watched as the slimy-smelly mud slipped through his fingers. *** Dance Party at the Seaside Hotel The seaside hotel's outdoor ballroom was filled with music and dancing couples. As expected the dress code was casual beach attire and the music was nice, soothing and romantic. Tenchi and Ryoko walked along the side of the wooden dance floor. Ryoko was still wearing her beach bikini and Tenchi was wearing a white T-shirt and his swimming trunks, both sat down at a nearby table. Haruo looked all over and finally spotted his special guests, he walked over to Tenchi and Ryoko. "Hello Ryoko! Hello Tenchi! Welcome!" "Hello Haruo!" Ryoko greeted back. "Hi Haruo." Tenchi returned. The ten year old blushed and struggled with his words. "Uhh..., Miss Ryoko? Um, uh, can you, uh..." "What can I do for you, Haruo?" "Well..., um since you saved my life and all...can you..." Haruo said fiddling with his fingers. "I know I'm just a kid and all but..." "Haruo, spit it out." Ryoko demanded in a friendly way. "Can you have this one dance with me?" "Sure!" "R-really?!" "C'mon, let's go tear up the rug." Ryoko stood up from her chair and held the little kid's hand. "Yaay!" The boy exclaimed, following Ryoko to the wooden dance floor. Tenchi watched as Ryoko walked off to the dance floor, he beamed at Ryoko's generosity. "Have fun dancing!" Tenchi said to Ryoko. "I'll just sit here and watch." Ryoko turned around and gave Tenchi an evil grin. "You're not off the hook, that easily. You're next right after this." "Uhh, ok." Tenchi returned nervously. Ryoko winked back in response. Then an easing song started up in the speakers. She turned to Little Haruo and smiled softly. "Okay kid, let's begin." Haruo nodded and took Ryoko's right hand and placed his left hand on her lips. The uneven-looking couple began to dance waltz around the dance floor with Ryoko doing the lead. Under soft roaming lights of the ballroom, Tenchi watched and admired Ryoko's fluent yet gentle movements, as she graced the dance floor. He thought. Tenchi looked at Haruo's face and noticed his innocent-boyish smile. Ryoko danced along the floor with Haruo through out the song. "I'm curious. How did you end up so faraway from shore?" "I was on my inflatable row boat when I ventured out. I kinda got carried away and ended up rowing out too far. So I decided to row back to shore but when I did, the float was leaking air! As you can see, the rest is history." Haruo beamed. She gazed at the Haruo's young face and enjoyed the boy's warm handsome smile. Ryoko smiled back at him, proud of the fact that she saved his life. Knowing that she was the one that was responsible for giving him a chance at life, love, and happiness. The song finally ended, and the dancing lights stopped moving. The dancers started to walk off the dance floor. "Well, I have to go now. Thank you for dancing with me!" Haruo thanked as he gave Ryoko a big hug. "You're welcome, kiddo. Anytime." Ryoko hugged back and patte