Homecomings

By William Benjamin Grilliette

All material of or relating to Tenchi Muyo! are copyrighted by Pioneer LD and AIC.

All material of or relating to "Will and Nerti Pii" is property of William Benjamin Grilliette.

Perspective 1: Masaki

Act 7

Scene 1

(A respectful silence hangs around the masonry of a grand temple, set apart from the busy world of the nearby crystalline cities. Dressed in black priestly garb, men and women tend to their affairs within the structure, but with a melancholy air and a grim demeanor about them. Even the reliefs and inscriptions upon the walls of the greatness of their forefathers did not rouse their spirits: their feline eyes downcast and their elfin ears ringing in the emptiness around them.)

(Here on Ryua, the world of gems and shadows mourns its fallen, the High Priest Ryua Murakami. However, not everyone here is a pious person, let alone even Ryoan. One man stands tall amongst the solemn priests, his sinister grin etched into his face. His black hair billows behind him as he strides proudly toward his destination in the heart of the temple, the central cathedral. His gray eyes glare malevolently around the corridor, the people nearby shrinking back from his gaze and his bladed combat attire.)

(Stepping into the inner sanctum of Ryoan culture, this man, Leon Tae, glances around the colonnade and its pyres, scoffing at the artistry around him. Before him at a raised platform, three men await him around an onyx altar, which stands before a great ceremonial blaze. This fire illuminates the room, casting flickering shadows that mingle with those from the pyres along the colonnade.)

(One of the men before Leon turns his proud and wicked gaze to the black-haired warrior. This Ryoan man's orange spikes of hair fall around his violet eyes while his lips widen into a subtle grin. His garb, unlike those of most other priests in the temple, is embroidered with insignia and various flame motifs for his religious rank. Newly ordained as a deacon, Ryobachi Ryua watches as the boy he saved from the Galaxy Police three years ago approaches, now a trained killer in his own right.)

(The other two Ryoan men with Ryobachi also turn to Leon, but are not as welcoming. The blond with his hair tied behind him, though two long tails of hair frame his calculating face and cool blue eyes, regards Leon with an icy distance. Dressed no different from the other Ryoan priests Leon has passed, Hotsuma barely acknowledges the dark combatant's presence.)

(The last figure around the ominous altar narrows his gaze, withholding the true emotion behind his proper facade: hate. Clothed in grand white robes sewn with great care for his rank and prestige, this tan-haired Ryoan cleric's eyes twitch, the desire to unleash a violent torrent upon Leon held just away from his fingertips. Shinya Ryua, Murakami's eldest son, tenses, showing that despite being about twice as old as his fellows, he has an edge hidden beneath his seething surface.)

(Once to the altar, Hotsuma addresses the newcomer first.)

Hotsuma: Taking your time, Lord Tae?

(Leon smiles to himself among the three Ryoan men.)

Leon: Why not? I'm being patient for what I'm after.

(Shinya answers, his decorum barely masking his true feeling.)

Shinya: For one like you, I doubt you could understand how anxious we are to conclude this as well.

(The black-haired villain scoffs to himself while he glances over to the priest.)

Leon: Oh, is someone still pissed about losing his daddy?

(Listening, Shinya's emotional guard starts to slip, evident by his growing frown and the red aura appearing around his hands.)

Leon: If you didn't like it, why did you vote to have him killed just like the rest of the cardinals? Don't tell me it was because you wanted his job, “High Priest Ryua”?

(The religious man's knuckles crack as he grips his fists tight, but Hotsuma's hand rests on his shoulder, drawing attention away from the agitator in blades.)

Hotsuma: We were here to discuss business at hand, Lord Tae.

(Leon shakes his head with a vile smirk crossing his lips while Shinya glares back at his subordinate. In his thoughts, Hotsuma telepathically mentions to Shinya.)

Hotsuma: ... We need him... for now...

(Ryobachi smiles broadly watching the energy dissipate from the new high priest's hands. He and Leon stand opposite Hotsuma and Shinya around the altar when the recently ascended leader speaks, focusing more on calming himself than on his words.)

Shinya: ... Yes, business... What is the status of each of your charges?

Hotsuma: I received reports from Tsugaru and Matori on Jurai this morning. They confirm that Jurai Ayeka has been placed under house-arrest in the palace, and that she went willingly. Hopes are that the circumstantial case against her will be enough to finally rid her from our path, especially with her own silent acknowledgment.

(Shinya nods thoughtfully.)

Shinya: Excellent. What of the Lady's Keys? Has the duo any progress on acquiring our “lock pick”?

Hotsuma: Not yet. They're focusing on removing the princess. However, they have been saying our “pick” is definitely going to be close to his extended family. Rest assured that my two insurgents will use this to their advantage.

Shinya: Very well.

(Turning to Ryobachi, Shinya continues this review.)

Shinya: What of Masaki Tenchi?

(The deacon glances down slightly, his pleased grin perpetuating.)

Ryobachi: He and his wife should be arriving on Earth within the next day. Seeing her grandfather killed in front of her definitely shook Ryoko's resolve, but I doubt enough to destabilize her pregnancy.

(He scowls some at this fact while the high priest narrows his eyes with a stern tone to his words.)

Shinya: I'm not particularly interested in your disappointment at not siring her child yourself. At the moment, she is hardly an issue, nor is her child. Masaki Tenchi is the current threat.

(Ryobachi's eyes rise to meet Shinya's, followed by a twisted gaze holding some tainted mania.)

Ryobachi: Give me the word, and he's crushed. It wouldn't take much, just the right story and evidence. After all, most of the witnesses to your father's death were here. We can destroy him: his family, his reputation... his whole life...

Shinya: Good. What of your other projects?

Ryobachi: My two operatives in the Science Academy have been following Akara Naja's work, and have sent me copies of her papers. My team has had some success, but without her or her creation, her “son”, it will be difficult.

Shinya: If worse comes to worse, acquire them. This is your calling, correct, Ryobachi?

(The orange-haired man glances to the side thoughtfully.)

Ryobachi: That is what she's said.

(Narrowing his eyes, the highest cleric adds.)

Shinya: Then, you would do well to accomplish it. This is integral to our first strike on Earth.

(The younger cleric retorts.)

Ryobachi: I'm well-aware of that. I still need Veronica Kimitan to calibrate the control systems, for her telepathy.

(Hotsuma nods and answers.)

Hotsuma: She will be finished with Lord Kain II soon. He was left both physically and mentally unstable after Tsunami ripped him from Ayeka's body and mind, which has made this situation all the more... bothersome.

(He glowers a bit as Shinya sighs with a nod.)

Shinya: I have read the reports in that regard, but deaths and frustration aside, he is our Lady's offspring as well as a trump card against the Jurai.

(The high priest turns his gaze to Leon, that taste of hatred still reeking from his sight.)

Shinya: What of you?

(Leon maintains his venomous grin.)

Leon: Pretty good so far. I have the full attention Father Michael Aelins after snagging his wayward daughter and feeding him some info on his late sister, Amelia. With his pull on Prora, they should fall into line with Ryua's cause easily.

Shinya: Excellent. Now...

(Before Shinya can continue, the dark warrior interrupts with his own demands.)

Leon: But, what I'd like to know is why I haven't had my chance at Pii or Nerti.

(A scowl finally breaks through Shinya's facade as he spins back to Leon.)

Shinya: Because they are not your concern! You have your duties assigned from our Mistress, and you should be content with them!

(The black-haired villain's smile fades as he eyes the Ryoan man. Ryobachi blinks at this sudden surprise while Hotsuma watches all this coolly.)

Leon: You want me, Shinya? For slicing up your old man?

(Shinya's hands burn with ruby light as he bares his teeth. Just as Leon begins to summon onyx energies to his hands as well, a woman's voice echoes through the chamber around them, drawing the attention of all four men. Her heavenly tone from on high, which has been worshiped in this temple for millennia, speaks now to them, the voice of the goddess Tokimi of Ryua.)

Tokimi: Enough, from both of you.

(The four men turn to the ceremonial pyre behind them which has roared upward into a blaze, its tongues flicking around a translucent, female figure. The flames embrace her, clothing her in a gown of red, orange, and black, the textiles of passion, heat, and death. The three priests quickly kneel before their goddess while Leon stands facing her, his eyes a bit wide at her manifestation.)

(As a fiery ring revolves around her shoulders, a taloned finger raises toward Shinya, followed by her disappointed words.)

Tokimi: Your father lost his edge, his faith. That is why I had my prized servant relieve him of his worldly burden.

(Shinya tenses under her word, but remains silent.)

Tokimi: I have watched you, Ryua Shinya, and thought you worthy enough to lead my cause against my sister Tsunami. However, following this path will lead you to where your father now sleeps.

(The high priest closes his eyes, his breath heavy with his anger.)

Tokimi: Is that clear, cleric?

(Slowly, his head nods, loyally accepting his mistress's law. Her gaze then turns to Leon who regards her far more seriously than he has Shinya.)

Tokimi: As for you, while you are my prized servant, you had best know your place. The two targets of your hatred will be yours in due time, once my oath visit pain upon their lives as been fulfilled.

(The warrior bows slightly and quietly in response.)

Leon: ... Very well...

(Though her face is masked by invisibility and the flickering flames, an insidious smile and joy could be felt in her words.)

Tokimi: Rest assured. Your time will come as well, my boy.

(Leon grins and chuckles to himself, his mind already running through the twisted desires of his black heart, but Tokimi's smile lingers. Her gaze does not waver, holding her secret plans within her eternal beauty. Then, she raises her hands to her followers.)

Tokimi: For now, rise. There is much to do before our enemy falls.

(Leon scoffs as her turns to leave while the three Ryoan men stand. Ryobachi hurries to Leon's side as the two begin to discuss their upcoming business, especially regarding the Masakis and Piis. Shinya reluctantly follows, keeping his distance from Leon and Ryobachi.)

(However, Hotsuma remains at the altar and pyre, watching the other three leave. Coolly, he comments.)

Hotsuma: Necessary means, my Lady?

(Tokimi nods as her form steps from the pyre onto the stone floor, the flames clinging to her body and feeding from her power.)

Tokimi: They are and will serve their respective purposes, but each will soon enough reach the end of their usefulness.

Hotsuma: And then, what of Ryua?

(The flames lick up her form, attempting to survive and trace the the Ryoan-like features of her face, which smile at Hotsuma.)

Tokimi: What, indeed.

(The priest mirrors her pleased grin as he takes a slow, pleasured breath. As wind fills his lungs, black markings scrawl themselves along his face and neck, and his eyes fill with the crackling darkness that Leon so easily commanded. The flames then dissipate while the darkness consuming Hotsuma fades again, Tokimi's words fleeting on the warm air.)

Tokimi: Serve me... and your rewards will be unfathomable...

(He bows respectfully to her oath, letting the fading image of her form fill his thoughts.)

Hotsuma: Yes, my goddess... by your will...

Scene 2

(A ship's engines roar as a sleek, blue star-fighter shoots through the skies over Japan. This vessel of extraterrestrial origin races through the waning sunlight, down into the mountain country within Okayama Prefecture. In the past, this has not been an unusual event, but the flare of its propulsion systems demonstrated the haste and urgency of the pilot.)

(Its braking jets fire, slowing the craft as it descends downward toward a home shrouded in tarps, no doubt for recent construction. The waters of the nearby lake ripple, and the snows are blown into the air by the craft's descent as it approaches the ground. Landing struts lower and touch the ground while the canopy pulls back, revealing the two occupants.)

(With little delay, the pilot stands and carefully takes his passenger into his arms, dread worry etched in his face. Framed by short, brown hair, his chocolate-colored eyes focus on his charge, his eternal beloved. His young and strong form rises from the ship, the motionless form of his companion laid in his grasp. Frightened and careful, Will Pii eases down to the ground and breaks into a hurried pace for the nearby house.)

(The woman in his arms gazes blankly into the distance, her gorgeous gray, feline eyes masked by an alien green glow. Her blond hair trails behind them as a golden veil, flowing over her elfin ears and pregnant womb. Lost within herself, Nerti Ro Pii lays seemingly lifeless in her husband's arms as he rushes to the house door before him.)

(Before Pii, a quasi-Asian door appears and slides open, letting him run inside. He slows as he reaches the other side of the door to find himself surrounded by an advanced laboratory filled with technology far surpassing Earth's current facilities, as well as some other worlds. A young girl's voice calls out to the bounty hunter, directing him through the devices.)

Girl: Over here!

(The young man rushes toward the voice and finds a clean and sterile medical table waiting him with various monitoring devices close at hand. Carefully, he lowers his bride upon the table, his eyes focused in their worry for her. A step raises his eyes from her to a young girl swiftly gliding up to Nerti and applying wireless monitoring sensors to her body, particularly her head.)

(The young red-headed girl's hair spikes behind her head, reaching easily to her heels. As befitting the Ryoan race, her pupils are slit-like, much like a feline's would be. Dressed in a short-sleeve blouse with a stiff-collared and professional over-shirt, Washu Hakubi, the renowned genius scientist, has already begun her analysis of Nerti's condition.)

(While she spins back to the instruments about her, she questions her impromptu guest.)

Washu: When did she become catatonic?

(Pii shakes his head, mentally attempting to keep grips on himself.)

Pii: On the flight here. At the house, she was like she was starting to lose herself in her anger, but then she started arguing with herself.

(He difficultly takes a calming breath.)

Pii: I got her to Caroki before she started slowing down her ranting.

(He sighs and closes his eyes, helplessness consuming him.)

Pii: Then, she just turned to me and stared. She lipped something, but I couldn't make it out. She hasn't moved since.

(Before Washu, line graphs shine into existence before her, listing electrical output of Nerti's brain activity and other such data. The next display shows a transparent view of Nerti's head, where a golden glow holds tenuously around her brain case and surrounds a brilliant emerald light source within. Washu folds her arms and rests her chin on her finger tips, considering the information in front of her. She mentally notes at the low readings on several displays.)

Washu: ... Progressed a lot in just a few days...

(Speaking to Pii, she continues her questioning.)

Washu: What triggered the onset?

(Pii answers his hands clasped around one of Nerti's.)

Pii: Seemingly nothing. She was just putting some blankets away when she punched the wall and started yelling about Jezibel and Tokimi.

Washu: Of course, you intervened soon afterward. Where was she putting the blankets?

Pii: The bedroom closet.

(Turning back to him, Washu eyes him with a scientist's objectivity, watching his affections overpower his reason. She blinks slowly, remembering some of her own humanity as she softens her voice and expression.)

Washu: Will.

(He raises his eyes to meet hers as she adds.)

Washu: Don't lose focus. She's my understudy, too. I need you to tell me what I don't know. Alright?

(Pii nods, understanding. She continues.)

Washu: What's kept in the closet? Anything that might have started this?

(He sighs and shakes his head, realizing the cause.)

Pii: Her old armor and scythe are in there. Shit!

(Washu nods and adds.)

Washu: That would do it, alright.

(Shifting back to face her devices, the great mind considers their situation.)

Washu: I've been looking into this invasive energy and started making a little progress in understanding it. The difficulty lies in its rarity. This power is unheard of in this universe. Even then, that green power is seeming to act more like a living being than free strands of ether. Pinning down a counter-agent has been problematic.

(She extends her teenage hand below an opening doorway in space-time. From it drops a small pistol-like device with two electrodes extending from the end of its “barrel”. Down the stock and grip, a dull yellowish light glows within the tool. Washu holds it aloft so Pii can examine it also.)

Washu: Luckily, the solution was right here too. Whatever that golden shield is that's containing the remnant of Jezibel also has the proper waveform to negate her control. Hence, why it can't escape through it. I've tried cultivating some of the waveform artificially, but like my work with mimicking Jurai Power, this is still an approximation at best. It's not the real thing, especially on short notice.

Pii: What's the plan?

Washu: I had hoped to have a chance to finish researching the interactions between these energies and try some low-level infusions into Nerti's system to see her reaction, but we don't really have the luxury...

(The great genius trails off when a solid tone pierces the ears of both Washu and Pii. She spins to the collection of graphs noting that several have dropped to constant lines, each flashing bold red text. Examining each, the professor's eyes fill with worry as she looks back to her understudy and the young bounty hunter. Pii grips Nerti's hand tightly and whispers to her ear, his concern cracking the usually harsh exterior of the hunter.)

Pii: Nerti... please... don't do this...

(Washu firms her features and quickly regards the possibilities, calculating their feasible outcomes. To herself, she ponders these.)

Washu: ... Her subconscious mind just completely shut down... Right now, there isn't a “Nerti Ro Pii”...

(Swiftly moving forward, the professor raises the device toward Nerti's neck, yet she slows and stops herself as her green eyes catch a shimmer of gold in her patient's cornea. Pii notes Washu's movement and glances up to meet her surprised gaze. The genius motions to the blonde's face, and the hunter follows her line of sight to see the same glimmer. In her hand, the weapon-like instrument starts to resonate as she turns her eyes down to examine it.)

(Cautiously, Washu sets the item down and centers her attention on Nerti. To Pii, she advises.)

Washu: I'd step back, Pii...

(He shakes his head, keeping his eyes on his bride.)

Pii: Come on, Nerti... You can beat her...

(Almost in response to his words, her eyes widen as a golden light burns through the emerald coating. She arches her back slightly, a wave of tension passing through her body, but soon she relaxes, her eyes centered directly upward with determination. Pii smiles and nods to himself while Washu spins back to her monitors. Her eyes blink in surprise as she notices that the activity monitors have begun to spike, reading far above their normal scales.)

(As the small device rattles on the floor, the genius extends her hands, summoning her phantom laptop. Her fingertips dance atop the keys, causing the scales of her graphs to alter while other displays appear. Each screen shows a differing plot: “spectrum analysis”, “ambient field strength”, among many others. While Washu gathers this data and begins to consider it, Pii listens carefully as Nerti whispers just audibly enough for him to understand.)

Nerti: ... This is how it should've been the first time...

(Pii holds her hand firmly and supportively as he remains at her side. Around his hand, he can feel her gripping back though her golden stare is fixed elsewhere. Washu watches all the incoming data and comments to her own great mind.)

Washu: Part of her memory cortex remained... something really deep-seated within her... primal even...

(On the display of the layers of spectra within Nerti's brain, the golden aura has become bright, brilliant, and strong, thicker and bolder. However, Washu notes a particular spike on her ambient field strength graph. She furrows her brows as she touches the display. The plot shifts to an image of Nerti laying on the table, specifically her shoulders. Extending downward from her back through the table, a ghostly silhouette is attached to Nerti, two softly arcing shapes, wide and delicate.)

(Just as Washu peers closer, the image vanishes while Nerti closes her eyes, concentration evident in her expression. Pii nods in affirmation of this gesture as Washu glances back to the display of the gold and emerald with Nerti's skull. She blinks as the shining, precious light begins to interweave itself into the blonde's cortex, ravaging the greenish invader. The green energy shrinks back, pooling within Nerti's frontal lobes, her conscious mind and memory, yet its golden assassin refuses to relent, surrounding it on all sides.)

(The professor watches this psychic dance with interest, commenting to herself.)

Washu: Her body's fighting it off... like an infection... Not unlike how Ayeka fought off the NVO that invaded her...

(Surrounded and at its end, the emerald will of the vile telepath retaliates, sparking against its oppressor. However, as it does so, the golden force seems only strike back and take more ground. Soon, only a single, minute stretch of the dimming green light remains. Washu watches carefully while it tries to raise away from Nerti's neurons. As it reaches to the boundary of her skull, the power native to Nerti's body suddenly and quickly crushes that last piece of Jezibel.)

(Looking at her monitors, the energies subside back to more ambient ranges when Washu glances back to the couple behind her. Pii waits expectantly while the great scientist comes to their side with a knowing smile on her lips. Pii glances up to see his wife's mentor nod confidently. He turns his attention back to Nerti as her eyes open to meet his relieved face. She glances down to see his hands holding hers firmly. With a blush, she reciprocates his smile while the two of them ease into a gentle kiss, her hand gracing his chin-line.)

(Washu watches them, seriously considering the events which have just transpired.)

Washu: Born in a different universe with a different set of rules... with some different ruling forces... Aelins and Kimitan... Jurai and Ryua... positive and negative... light and dark... pairs...

(She rests her chin in her fingertips as she narrows her eyes.)

Washu: Yet, the Light Hawk Wings are singular... and connected to them all...

(Pii and Nerti break their kiss and hold one another while Washu sets her eyes on them.)

Washu: And, who would gain by eliminating the users of them...?

Scene 3

(As the snows melt around the hill regions surrounding the Masaki Shrine in the mountains of Okayama, the creatures have begun to rise from their hidden dens, attracted by the growing warmth. The sun rises slowly in the east, casting its light over the bare trees, which soak up the light and the snow-melt. However, a shadow is cast down over the shrine, one that in ages past may well have been construed as being a dragon.)

(While it slides down the hillside and follows the stone steps, the keeper of the shrine, dressed in a white gi and blue hakama, steps out of his humble religious hideaway. Adjusting his rectangular glasses, he turns his eyes to the sky, witnessing the descent of a grand vessel from the stars. Carved from what seems like wood, the great craft drifts through the sky to the estate resting at the foot of the stairs.)

(Yosho Jurai, the elderly keeper of the Masaki shrine and prince of Jurai's Royal Family, smiles warmly as he descends the steps. Below, at the estate below, the primary structure next to the small lake is covered in industrial tarps which whip from the winds whistling off the incline. When the shadow of the organic ship passes over the building, a young woman with long, vibrant azure hair pokes her head out from between the tarps and looks up with joy at the incoming traveler. The rosy eyes of Princess Sasami Jurai never leave the craft as she calls back inside and dashes out toward the lake.)

Sasami: It's them! They're home!

(Her seeming fifteen years of age help her clear the distance quickly, her waist-length hair waving behind her. Close after her, a furry brown creature mews happily and races with Sasami to the water's edge. Once at her side, Sasami reaches down and gently lifts her small, feline-like companion into her arms, the small one's ears cutely flopping down on either side of her little body. Ryo-Ohki, Sasami's cabbit ally, snuggles into Sasami's caring caress and mews up at the descending vessel.)

(Also from the house, a middle-aged Japanese man arises and gazes up at the vehicle and also admits a welcoming smile beneath his small mustache. He pushes back his glasses and straightens his shirt some as Yosho arrives at his side. Nobuyuki Masaki, Yosho's son-in-law, nods in greeting to his late bride's father, who returns the motion.)

Yosho: Is everything ready?

Nobuyuki: We've been ready, thanks to Daisuke and Washu. I just hope they'll like it.

(The elder man folds his arms and turns his attention back to the arriving craft.)

Yosho: I have no worries about that.

(With that, the two men walk to join Sasami at the lakeside while the ship, Funaho by name, comes to rest in the waters before them. While the waters lap at the sides of the craft, a green orb of light appears near the hull and then darts in an arcing path, stopping just before the local trio. The brightness dims, revealing a young man and a young woman.)

(The brown eyes of the young Asian man warmly return the gazes of those awaiting him from beneath his locks of black hair. He smiles genuinely and pushes aside the dark cloak around him, exposing the earthen colors of his clothes beneath. Tenchi Masaki, aged twenty years, stands before his father, grandfather, and distant relation as they welcome him home.)

(The golden eyes of the young extraterrestrial woman also express their pleasure at the sight of the three assembled before them. Her feline-like features soften beneath her mane of cyan hair, pleased to be home, as well as some exhaustion under the emotion. However, what draws the attention of the others is her growing womb hidden by her elegantly embroidered kimono. Ryoko Masaki, also aged twenty years and known once as a great space pirate from the planet Ryua, joins her beloved in bowing to the trio from the house.)

(Sasami quickly crosses the distance between herself and Ryoko, her eyes amazed at the unborn child she carries. Ryoko grins to herself proudly, though her gaze is a bit distant, preoccupied. Sasami glances to Tenchi and breaks the silence between them all.)

Sasami: Welcome home! Ryoko, you...

(She hesitates while attempting to configure her words to express what she feels.)

Sasami: Congratulations!

Ryoko: Thank you, Sasami.

(Ryo-Ohki hops onto Ryoko's shoulder and mews at her questioningly. Ryoko glances to the small creature and smiles softly. Between the two of them, a psychic message is relayed as per the connection between a Ryoan and their bonded cabbit. Ryo-Ohki then meows happily while Ryoko nods.)

(Yosho grins as he and Nobuyuki approach Tenchi.)

Yosho: Seems you two were rather busy on your long honeymoon.

(The recent arrival blushes and scratches the back of his head nervously while he answers this observation.)

Tenchi: Well...

(The grandfather chuckles to himself when Nobuyuki pats his son heavily on the back, a wide smile on his face.)

Nobuyuki: Nothing to be embarrassed about, son. When I married a beautiful woman, I did much the same.

(With a sly glint in his eye, he meets Tenchi's eyes with a touch of humor on his voice.)

Nobuyuki: After all, you're here, aren't you?

(A drop of sweat rolls down Sasami's locks while Yosho laughs. Ryoko continues to smile proudly as she saunters over to Tenchi and wraps her arms around him.)

Ryoko: Well, I have to take most of the blame myself.

(Tenchi wryly grins as he looks into Ryoko's loving, and desirous, eyes.)

Ryoko: I just wouldn't leave him alone.

(The husband's face shifts to a genuine and loving smile as the two exchange a kiss for a few seconds, their separation slow and longing. Sasami sighs happily watching the two, her eyes distantly dreaming. Nobuyuki pats Tenchi on his shoulder, still filled with pride though with a gravity to his voice.)

Nobuyuki: Well, we'll have a chat later, Tenchi.

(Tenchi nods while Sasami breaks out of her daydream and returns to her attentions to Ryoko.)

Sasami: That's great, Ryoko! Have you been to the doctor yet? When are you due?

(Ryoko thinks back to the visit with the physician on Jurai, Dr Kyo Naga, and his pleasant news, as well as the unpleasantness that followed from the other citizens of Jurai. With a breath, she forces those secondary thoughts aside and answers Sasami, a hand drifting over her abdomen. Her maternal excitement punches through the other emotions layered upon her in her response.)

Ryoko: In about four months. I can hardly wait myself, Sasami.

(Nobuyuki nods.)

Nobuyuki: Neither could Achika when he was carrying Tenchi.

(Yosho folds his arms and concurs.)

Yosho: Or Itsuki when she was carrying Achika.

(Ryoko scoffs.)

Ryoko: Good to know that I'm in good company.

Nobuyuki: Your mother was probably no different.

(She smiles thoughtfully and nods.)

Ryoko: Probably.

(Nobuyuki glances to Tenchi and questions him curiously.)

Nobuyuki: You two were also going by Ryua, right? The news talked about...

(The young prince and his wife clasp their hands as Tenchi answers his father's inquiry shortly and softly.)

Tenchi: ... Can we talk about that later, Dad?

(The Terran man looks over his son and daughter-in-law, his expression somewhat confused at first. Through Tenchi and Ryoko's minds, the events surrounding the death of Father Murakami Ryua, high priest of Tokimi and Ryoko's grandfather, replay through their minds. Ryo-Ohki mews to her mistress, who shakes her head, some saline at the edge of her eyes. Yosho, however, rests a hand on his daughter's widower, drawing his attention away from that line of thought.)

Yosho: Perhaps you should show them your surprise, Nobuyuki.

(The wedded pair raise their eyes while Tenchi asks.)

Tenchi: Surprise?

(Nobuyuki nods as his personal pride visibly rises in his pleased expression. He turns and rushes back to the covered building, taking a dangling cord in his hand. The others in the assembly turn to face the structure, Yosho and Sasami knowing well what's coming. Tenchi and Ryoko blink dubiously at the elder man's actions.)

Tenchi: What's going on, Dad? Did something happen to the house while we were gone?

Ryoko: Yeah, what's with the tarps? Did Mihoshi come to visit, or did Washu blow out a wall?

(Tenchi and Sasami both grin wryly at Ryoko's blunt comment while Nobuyuki remains unfazed. He shakes his head and answers.)

Nobuyuki: No, though Washu did help a lot with this. I know it's a little late, but here's my wedding gift to you both.

(Pulling down with both arms in a single deft stroke, the architect draws the cord downward, loosing a knot that was tied high above. Together in a well-planned pattern, the ropes and lines holding the tarps together around the building snake away, allowing the panels of plastic to fall away. Nobuyuki himself quickly runs out from beneath one of the falling sides to avoid being pinned and joins the others.)

(Once the cloaks have fallen, Tenchi and Ryoko gaze upon a three-story estate, beautifully constructed from Terran materials. The rising sun glimmers off of its many windows, allowing copious amounts of light into the home, particularly on the first floor. Directed toward the lake, a porch extends, seemingly incomplete while the remainder of the building's earthen tone finish seems almost polished and lacquered. Nobuyuki steps forward and motions to the porch, commenting.)

Nobuyuki: We couldn't really do it in winter, but once all the ice melts, we'll finish this out into a pier for the lake. After all, we get a lot of visitors landing here.

(Tenchi comes to his father's side and expressing some of his astonishment.)

Tenchi: Dad... I don't know what to say. It's... amazing.

(Ryoko adds, her eyes focused on the house, still dumbfounded herself.)

Ryoko: ... You did all this for us?

(Nobuyuki nods with a proud smile on his face.)

Nobuyuki: Yes. I knew you two would need a bigger home soon enough.

(He nods to Ryoko's swelling belly, dragging her attention back to that topic once again. However, Tenchi rests a hand on his father's shoulder, directing his serious question to him.)

Tenchi: But, Dad, what about the old house? You... built it for Mom...

(Ryoko and Sasami blink and lower their eyes at this realization before Nobuyuki turns his eyes to meet Tenchi's with a somber gaze, the smile remaining.)

Nobuyuki: She understands, Tenchi. She wants you to have a good home for your own family, just like we did.

(Yosho speaks as he joins the two other men.)

Yosho: It's alright, Tenchi. Her memory lives with us even without the house.

(He motions to the the young couple with a proud smile of his own.)

Yosho: And, she's smiling over the two of you now.

(Tenchi and Ryoko exchange a few thoughtful glances before Nobuyuki chimes with a bright tone.)

Nobuyuki: It's no time to be acting all sad. My son and daughter are home, and I'm going to be a grandfather! It's time to celebrate!

(Yosho grins and nods while Sasami smiles happily.)

Sasami: Yeah, let's show you around. It's just as pretty inside.

(Tenchi glances to his father and grandfather, who both nod, before he himself replies in the same kind to Sasami with a warm smile.)

Tenchi: We'd love to.

(Sasami motions toward the house while Tenchi and Ryoko follow, exchanging an unspoken comment through their meeting gazes. Nobuyuki and Yosho remain behind, watching the younger residents enter the new home. Tears start to roll from Nobuyuki's eyes watching the couple pass through the doorway when a rough slap knocks is breath from him. With a wry smile, he glances to Yosho who nods to the house.)

Yosho: Go on, son.

(Nobuyuki ponders this for a moment before he follows and enters the house also. Alone, the great warrior from Jurai folds his arms and looks upon the family that has grown around where he came to quiet his sorrows. He turns back toward the shrine when he notices a pair of figures standing next to the doorway of the new Masaki estate.)

(On the left, one of these female figures wears a pastel blue kimono, her black hair tied behind her. Her brown eyes radiate a closely held passion that the Juraian recognizes well. Yosho's late wife Itsuki bows gently to her husband before she turns and fades away into the home.)

(On the right, the remaining lady wears her raven locks down, her figure dressed in a white blouse and black dress. Her brown eyes reflect a love similar to Itsuki's, but of a more innocent kind toward Yosho. The great man's daughter Achika smiles back to her father as she too bows to him. However, as she rises, her hair shifts color to a silvery-blue, and her eyes to a crimson red. Two black marks like tiger stripes scrawl across her face, one on each cheek, the Juraian Mark of Rage. In her Juraian form, Achika continues to smile as she follows her mother's spirit inside the home also, fading as she goes.)

(Yosho blinks at this image before his lips widen to an understanding smile. A tear rolls down his own cheek as he turns back to the shrine.)

Scene 4

(Crickets chirp in the twilight around the Masaki estate, its newly redesigned and reconstructed home standing elegantly against the nearby forests and mountain. Within, the home is silent, so contrary to its once rowdy days when it was filled with beauties from the stars. Yet, a dull light rises from the kitchen, accompanied by some soft rummaging. Here amongst the numerous cabinets filled with untold gourmet ingredients, the refrigerator door is held open by a young man searching the racks.)

(Soon, he finds his quarry, a pitcher of water, which he takes to the island in the center of the room. His short, brown hair spikes around his scalp, slightly disheveled by his restlessness at this hour. As he pours himself a glass of the liquid, some footsteps draw his attention to the door to his right. His brown eyes rise to meet the opening of the door and the advent of his visitor.)

(Another young man enters, shorter than his new companion and with darker brown hair extending to near his waist. The two meet gazes, their earthen eyes meeting, the first with a scoff and a grin while the latter with a welcoming smile. Setting down the pitcher of water, the first youth, Will Pii, greets his compatriot.)

Pii: Long time no see, Tenchi.

(The shorter fellow, Tenchi Masaki, nods and answers as he approaches the island.)

Tenchi: Same to you, Will.

(Motioning to the pitcher, Pii offers to Tenchi.)

Pii: Want a glass?

Tenchi: Sure.

(As Pii obtains another glass from the cupboard, he comments.)

Pii: Long hair's an interesting look for you.

(The young Juraian prince grins slightly while the young bounty hunter pours him a drink.)

Tenchi: I thought I needed a change.

(Glancing out to the den, Tenchi motions to his house-guest.)

Tenchi: Mind if we sit at the table?

Pii: No problem.

(Together, the two men exit the kitchen and sit opposing one another at the Masaki dinner table, each with a glass of water of which to partake. Pii sighs as he seats himself, relieving some tension before he reopens the conversation.)

Pii: So, how've you and Ryoko been?

(Tenchi's eyes lower to gaze at the glass of water, the recent bigoted voices of angry Juraians and clashes of Ryoan swords against his own ricocheting through his mind. The hunter watches the other's gaze, listening to the bothered tone of the reply.)

Tenchi: Could be far better.

(Pii nods, adding.)

Pii: The news has been blaring about Ryua's claims about a “Juraian assassin” doing in Ryua Murakami...

(Tenchi closes his eyes, the memory of his fierce battle with the old priest Murakami, and then Murakami's death at the hands of the black-haired psychopath Leon Tae. His hand grips tightly on the table as his opposite palm lifts the glass of water to his lips.)

Tenchi: ... I know about it, and I'm well-aware of whom they will soon be accusing.

Pii: Tenchi, all of us knew that you and Ryoko were going to Jurai and Ryua for your honeymoon. Although, there are other Juraians on Ryua, like the governor and his subordinates.

(The prince nods knowingly when his eyes meet Pii's, a frustration seated deep within them.)

Tenchi: Yes, that's true, but I was in the temple of Tokimi, Will, and did fight with Ryua Murakami.

(The hunter's brows furrow with his serious consideration.)

Pii: ... Did you?

(Shaking his head, the accused responds, some exasperation slipping from his lips.)

Tenchi: No, I didn't. He was Ryoko's grandfather, Will. I wouldn't do that to her, especially not now.

Pii: Alright, but how were you even in combat with him?

(His teeth clench as he takes a breath, calming his nerves.)

Tenchi: ... Because they took Ryoko and held her captive, threatened her... and the baby...

(Pii's eyes burn along with Tenchi's at this, his own worn paternal and spousal instincts touched.)

Pii: ... Shit...

(An angry truth smolders behind the young artist's gaze as he continues.)

Tenchi: ... I did fight him, but I did not kill him. They made Ryoko watch me fight him, and both of us watch him die.

(Those crazed gray eyes haunt Tenchi as Pii tenses his own fists with a nod.)

Pii: ... I get the picture. Then, if you didn't do it, who did?

Tenchi: Ryoko says his name was “Leon Tae”.

(The hunter's eyes widen at the familiar name, confusion seeping in from his own experiences with the person in question. Tenchi nods.)

Tenchi: You know him.

Pii: Yeah, a long time ago. What the hell was he doing on Ryua?

Tenchi: I don't know for sure, but from the way he spoke and acted, he has pull with the Ryoan people now.

(This information only makes Pii's brows furrow deeper as he tries to align this high profile murder on Ryua with the young upstart he knew in his own past on Pentinon.)

Pii: That makes no sense. He was a student at the Pentinon Science Academy with Nerti and me.

Tenchi: It looks like he has more to him, just like you and Nerti.

Pii: Looks like.

(Pushing this aside, Tenchi takes another swig of water and comments.)

Tenchi: ... Jurai was far better. At least there, we had old friends we could trust.

Pii: But, it was no picnic either, I bet.

(The warrior prince concurs.)

Tenchi: Threats, bigotry, blind hate... but again, we had friends there so we could escape it for a while.

(Pii nods and takes a drink himself while his companion now questions him.)

Tenchi: How about you? You said you were heading back “home”, to your birth-parents.

(Happy images of the Terran hunter and his blond bride mingling with various people kin to Pii roam through his mind. However, Pii's recollection draws back the blows he delivered in succession to the young boy, Clint Levre, the one who had wronged one of his family. The prince listens to his guest's voice and watches his gestures: a subconscious sigh, a closing of his eyes, and a glancing away.)

Pii: It was good.

(Tenchi eyes Pii carefully, commenting.)

Tenchi: You're not very good at lying, Will.

(The brown-haired young Terran shakes his head with another, more frustrated sigh.)

Tenchi: What happened?

(Pii remembers the black blade appearing in his hand aimed at the boy's face, and Nerti's aghast look at both the sword and the hatred in Pii's face at this person.)

Pii: ... Family business, Tenchi. It's done and over. I'd rather not discuss it.

(Understandingly, Tenchi nods.)

Tenchi: Alright. I won't pry.

(Pii comments wryly.)

Pii: Generally, everything went well. The shit hit the fan when we came back.

(Tenchi's brow rises at this, and the hunter nods and continues. His mind's eye sees Nerti's tears flowing from the green glow covering them.)

Pii: Jezibel's little going away present was a little more than just masking over her memories. She left a little part of herself too.

(The royal shakes his head with a curse under his sigh.)

Tenchi: Damn... Is she alright?

(Pii nods.)

Pii: Yeah, she's recovering in Washu's lab. The baby's okay too.

(Relieved, Tenchi smiles some.)

Tenchi: That's good to hear.

(The hunter's brows then furrow as he glances back to his companion.)

Pii: But, I've checked our messages while Nerti and I have been here. The Galaxy Police have been calling.

(Eyes narrowed, Tenchi nods, understanding the similarity.)

Tenchi: The bombing at the Terran Science Academy site...

(Agreeing, Pii answers.)

Pii: Exactly. They'll probably blame Nerti because of the recent problems she's had with the SA regarding her studies into the NVO energy.

(Recalling the newscast images of the violet-tressed Juraian princess, Ayeka Jurai, in shackles, Tenchi inquires.)

Tenchi: Do you think Ayeka's situation is connected too?

(Pii meets Tenchi's gaze coldly and seriously.)

Pii: How could it not?

(The prince rests his chin on his knuckles while he considers these related incidents. Pii stands and paces over to the counter, expressing his own thoughts.)

Pii: We faced a god, Tenchi. In Manhattan, we hurt her and set her back, but we hardly finished her.

Tenchi: I'm aware of that, Will, but I didn't think she'd lash back this soon.

(His eyes lower has he runs his free hand through his black locks.)

Tenchi: I'd hoped that we'd have some peace.

Pii: No such luck, it looks like.

(Tenchi stands and turns back to Pii, a determination solid in his gaze.)

Tenchi: This can't happen. Ryoko and I have a child now, and I don't want...

(Pii looks over his shoulder to Tenchi to see the gravity written in the young father-to-be's face.)

Tenchi: I won't allow someone to do this to him... to any of us.

(The hunter nods slowly, understandingly. Then, he turns back to his once comrade and extends his hand.)

Pii: Tenchi, I have something to ask of you and your family.

(Tenchi blinks oddly at his guest when a ruby and onyx spark arcs across Pii's hand. Tenchi's eyes widen as that spark grows into an orb of dark energy in Pii's palm.)

Pii: I've learned to summon it, but I don't really know how to control it. Nerti was controlled through it once, and I never want to see that again, or have it happen to my child.

(Their eyes meet again while Tenchi raises his hand, calling forth an orb of blue and white Jurai energy. As the two spheres of polar power draw close, sparks begin to discharge between the two.)

Pii: I want to know how to use it so my family will be safe. In return, we'll help you however we can.

(The prince smiles and nods as the two let the opposing forces fade away. Their hands meet and grip tightly, spawning a smirk from the hunter's lips.)

Tenchi: And, we'll help you just the same, my friend.

Pii: Allies again? I guess third time's the charm.

(Tenchi smirks himself and shakes his head.)

Tenchi: Let's just say we're friends, Will.

Pii: Never had many of those. I guess it could happen.

Tenchi: Stranger things have.

(As the two seat themselves again and begin to continue their conversation, a stealthy pair of feet slide away from the nearby rear door. With a smile on his aging lips, Yosho Jurai, Tenchi's grandfather, nods approvingly as he turns his path back toward the Masaki Shrine.)

Scene 5

(Encompassed by the plaques and awards of a ranking military officer, a young Juraian man paces behind his desk, his chin in his hand. His thoughts swirl about the violet-tressed princess, Ayeka Jurai, watching her lead in shackles through the grounds of the palace. Beneath his long locks of tan hair, this young commander glances up to his sheathed katana, used primarily for ceremonial occasions with his dress uniform. Briefly, the thought of drawing that blade and rushing out the door slips past his usually collected demeanor, but he forces that away with a shake of his head. Captain Sagami Jurai stops and chastises himself.)

Sagami: No, no... That wouldn't help in the least...

(A chime rings from the door to his office, drawing his attention away from his thoughts. Vocally, he answers.)

Sagami: Enter.

(The door pops from the continuation of the wall and slides aside revealing a group of four citizens. The first is dressed not unlike Sagami but has about twice his number of years as told by the streaks of gray in his hair. Captain Tensho Jurai, father of the famous bounty hunter Nagi Jurai, bows to his fellow ranking officer.)

(To Tensho's right, a fiery-haired young man closer to Sagami's age bows also, his samurai-like garb setting him as an anachronism to the two officers. Lashed across his back is a rather ornate staff with a brilliant crimson sphere set into the headpiece. Kamidake Juraiko, crimson knight of King Jurai I, represents himself properly in this assemblage in his proper bow.)

(To Tensho's left, a raven-haired man shows his respect in much the same fashion as Kamidake, his own hakama and gi placing him in a similar time period. Lashed across his back is another decorative staff with a noble azure sphere entwined in the headpiece. Azaka Juraiko, azure knight of King Jurai I, honors his host and fellows graciously with his noble bow.)

(Behind Azaka, a woman dressed in a simple kimono and sporting shoulder-length black hair also respects Sagami's office with a royal bow. Some of her facial features are vaguely similar to Azaka's behind his full beard, displaying a distant kinship between the two. Machiko Juraiko, one of Azaka's descendants in the modern era, shows her heritage in her etiquette alongside her ancestor.)

(Sagami raises a brow at this display of respect and shakes his head. He bows in the kind to these four, showing equal respect in return. As the five of them rise, the host comments.)

Sagami: That wasn't necessary. I should be...

(When Sagami trails off, Tensho comments with a knowing grin on his face.)

Tensho: We have our reasons, Sagami.

(Before the young captain can respond, Azaka inquires in his honorable tone.)

Azaka: May we enter?

(Dumbly, Sagami replies.)

Sagami: Oh, yes. Of course.

(The four arrivals pass through the doorway, the portal sliding closed and sealing behind them. Before the desk are two chairs, and Azaka immediately motions Machiko to the seat. Graciously, she gives him a slight bow and seats herself, the knightly man standing at her side almost as a protector. Not too differently, Kamidake offers the last free seat to Tensho, who grins to himself and accepts. The young captain sits in his chair behind the desk and nods to the present audience.)

Sagami: I thank you all for coming on this urgent matter. I believe I speak for us all when I say we need to act quickly and with tact.

Azaka: Agreed. This mockery should not be allowed to continue.

Sagami: I pray it does not.

(His eyes fall upon Machiko curiously before he glances to the stately knight at her side with a question.)

Sagami: I don't believe I have met your friend, Sir Azaka.

(Azaka bows and answers directly.)

Azaka: My apologies. This is Lady Juraiko Machiko, one of my descendants in this age and a supporter of our princess.

(The young officer's eyes narrow slightly, his thoughts considering the two before him given the past few incidents in history. The azure samurai notes this change and comments.)

Azaka: I can assure you of her loyalty and reliability.

(Machiko nervously lowers her eyes, glancing up to Sagami's gaze as the young man continues his thoughts for a moment. He shakes his head.)

Sagami: Her allegiance wasn't my thought.

(He sighs and breaks his serious expression with a welcoming smile.)

Sagami: But, if she is here to help Ayeka, she is welcome here.

(She smiles warmly in return and bows her head gently.)

Machiko: Wholeheartedly, my lord.

(He smiles wryly and waves that title aside.)

Sagami: No need for that here, madam. This is an informal meeting.

(Shyly, she nods and accepts this fact when Kamidake adds, reasserting their purpose.)

Kamidake: That is true, but we are here in regard to an acutely grave matter.

(Sagami nods, his own gravity returning.)

Sagami: Quite so, Sir Kamidake. Like Sir Azaka said, this is a mockery. Ayeka would never commit cold-blooded murder.

(Tensho questions.)

Tensho: I don't believe anyone here doubts your claim, but does anyone know the specifics of the accusations against her beyond second degree murder?

(Sagami's thoughts drift back to the images of the children Ayeka was researching, those who became missing around her memory faults. He sets this aside in his mind and answers the question less directly.)

Sagami: I've made contact with one of her friends from her time at the Masaki estate, one Lieutenant Makibi Kiyone. I'm sure she'll find some trail to this.

(The other men in the room note this slight avoidance of the question at hand but leave the recognition unspoken. Azaka nods and affirms this course of action.)

Azaka: With her unquestionable talents, she will indeed.

(The great samurai's voice turns worrisome as he continues.)

Azaka: However, I worry most about the princess herself during this time.

(Sagami and Kamidake nod somberly, their thoughts mirroring Azaka's in the image of the violet-tressed Princess Ayeka Jurai pale-faced with darkened, blood-shot eyes, her clothes disheveled. Tensho and Machiko lower their eyes, only imagining what the other men have seen in the princess.)

Azaka: She was very delicate when this only complicated matters, and without guidance...

(The young captain's mind runs through the his recent encounters with Ayeka: her blue glory aboard Ryu-Oh as the Juraian energies flowed barely restrained through her, her self-doubt as she stood across from him on Ryu-Oh's bridge, and her drained and worried gaze as she read through the names of the missing children. His fists grip tightly under his desk while his tension is most obvious in his voice and his narrowed eyes.)

Sagami: All the more reason we need to remedy this as soon as possible.

(A soft ringing noise rises from behind Sagami, drawing the room's attention away from the angered captain. He glances to an flashing panel on his desk and adds, knowingly.)

Sagami: This is why I also contacted some other mutual friends.

(Depressing this panel, a screen appears in the vacant space to his immediate left, displaying four recognizable faces to the assemblage. A young man with long black hair and honest brown eyes gazes back from the center of the group. Though only have lived a few years, his eyes speak volumes of the battles he has fought and won. Tenchi Masaki peers back at the Juraians before he bows in respect to them.)

(To Tenchi's right, a teenage girl also bows gracefully and with the most proper poise. Her education of Juraian formalism reflects the blue hair with which she was bestowed at her birth and now streams down her back. Sasami Jurai, Ayeka's younger sister, greets the congregation.)

(To Tenchi's left, a seemingly elderly man bows gently and respectfully. Dressed in the white gi and blue hakama of a Shinto priest, his violet eyes tell a story not unlike Tenchi's, but one of greater depth. Yosho Jurai, or Katsuhito Masaki, announces his nobility in his salutation.)

(With Yosho, a middle-aged gentleman bows humbly with the honored people gathered with him. Though not of noble stature, he carries an air of Japanese honor borne by his daily work and support of his family. Nobuyuki Masaki, Yosho's son-in-law and Tenchi's father, greets the extraterrestrial nobility.)

(Sagami, Tensho, and the two samurai nod their salutations while Machiko blinks at first in disbelief, not seeing such a regal group in her past. However, soon, she recovers some of her wits and acknowledges them as well, still a bit star-struck. Sagami greets them.)

Sagami: Thank you for contacting us, Lord Tenchi. It is greatly appreciated.

Tenchi: It's no problem, Sagami. We're always here for Ayeka.

(Sasami's worried voice and eyes fall upon Sagami.)

Sasami: How is she doing? Is she okay?

(The captain's eyes lower before he replies.)

Sagami: I don't know. I haven't seen her since before she was arrested.

Azaka: Neither have we, princess.

(Yosho's wise eyes consider the possibilities seriously.)

Yosho: Does this have anything to do with what happened to her on Earth?

(Kamidake shakes his head.)

Kamidake: I do not believe so, Lord Yosho. We do know the accusations are from Jurai, not Earth or the Galactic Union.

(Nobuyuki scratches his head with his thoughts.)

Nobuyuki: Then, it can't be anything recent then, can it? She's been on Earth more or less from when she first came here until a few months ago.

(Sasami nods and concurs, thinking herself.)

Sasami: Yeah, except for the Reunion and when Kagato appeared, she's been on Earth.

(Tensho glances at Sasami and contemplates another route.)

Tensho: Princess Sasami, you're Ayeka's sister. Do you know of anything that might have triggered this?

(Sasami shakes her head, her own worries piling on her mind.)

Sasami: No, this goes against who Ayeka is. She wouldn't ever kill someone. That's not my sister.

(Machiko watches the distraught young princess, reminding her of her own worries and concerns about her own family after Kagato's coup was deposed. She remembered the ripping questions and harsh words said against her family for the actions of her brother, the dark knight Tetta. Yet, it is recalling Tetta's own angry eyes when he cut down her loyalist husband that wrenches her heart the most.)

(As she holds her arms close, Tenchi turns to Sasami and offers her his soft tone and consoling words.)

Tenchi: We know, Sasami. It'll be alright. We just have to get everyone else to see that.

(Machiko then answers Sasami's worries, gently at first as she speaks with reserve to these grand personages around her.)

Machiko: ... You have to be strong...

(Everyone turns to Machiko and listens while her ruby eyes raise from beneath her locks of hair.)

Machiko: True or not, it's hard to think... that something dark twisted someone you love... but the possibility is there...

(Sasami listens intently, her concerned expression focused on the elder lady's words.)

Machiko: We all believe she's innocent... You have to hold onto that... It'll get you through this...

(The young princess nods slowly, accepting this while Azaka rests a supportive hand on Machiko's shoulder. The mother turns her gaze up to her ancestor who nods approvingly to her. A gentle smile crosses her lips at this.)

(Still concerned, Tenchi questions Sasami.)

Tenchi: You going to be okay, Sasami?

(Sasami nods, glancing downward in response.)

Sasami: Yeah... I think so...

Tenchi: You don't have to if...

(She shakes her head.)

Sasami: No, Tenchi. I want to help Ayeka as much as I can, just like everyone else.

(Conceding, Tenchi reluctantly agrees, seeing a new confidence of emerging behind her eyes as they raise back to his.)

Tenchi: Alright.

(Stepping forward, Yosho refocuses their discussion.)

Yosho: It seems that we should first have someone check on Ayeka's well-being.

Sagami: I agree.

(Tensho glances across the desk at Sagami and grins some to himself while he suggests a course of action.)

Tensho: Then, you should go, captain.

(Sagami turns back to Tensho, pondering this. His head starts to shake with some doubts when the others begin to voice their thoughts.)

Azaka: That is a good choice.

Kamidake: Quite so.

(Sagami finally replies, his brows furrowed with his apprehension.)

Sagami: No, shouldn't Sir Azaka or Sir Kamidake go instead? They were aiding her far more directly than me.

(Yosho disagrees, turning the young captain's eyes back to the legendary warrior.)

Yosho: I think it best that she hear this from your lips, Sagami, not anyone else's.

(His grandson concurs.)

Tenchi: Yeah, you were talking with her a lot before Ryoko and I left. She might feel better if you tell her.

(Sagami lowers his eyes, a redness crossing part of his face.)

Sagami: ... I'm honored...

(Sasami and Machiko both blink at his bit of shyness and smile softly, knowing well its meaning. Azaka approves as he continues.)

Azaka: This is good. Once we know her condition, we can make preparations to remove this slight against her reputation.

(Nobuyuki smiles and adds.)

Nobuyuki: Yeah, she came back from being called a traitor. I'm sure we can come back from this.

(Sasami mirrors this hopeful expression as she, Kamidake, and Machiko concur with this statement. However, Tenchi lowers his eyes in thought, recalling the other headlines in the broadcast about Ryua Murakami's murder on Ryua as well as the bombing at the Terran Science Academy construction site. The clashes of his blade against Murakami's and his whispered words to the bounty hunter Will Pii rebound through his thoughts, worrying him. He recalls specifically Pii's grave comment about their situation.)

Pii: We faced a god, Tenchi. In Manhattan, we hurt her and set her back, but we hardly finished her.

(Yosho's gaze falls upon his grandson, noting his serious expression while the others miss this subtle change in demeanor in their buzzing amongst themselves. Before Yosho can speak, a static consumes the image display on both Earth and Jurai. Everyone, save the warrior of legend and azure knight of the first court, blinks dumbly at the displays when the displays clear and show a puff of blond hair followed by the elegantly tanned visage of a familiar friend. This woman blinks into a semi-confused gaze and questions herself.)

Woman: Ara, ara... is this how it's set? Hello? Is anyone there?

(Mihoshi Kuramitsu, Kiyone's one time partner and frequent visitor to the Masaki estate, smiles widely and cheers as she catches glimpses of everyone.)

Mihoshi: Oh, hi! Looks like I got through.

(Sweat-drops droop through the hair of the majority of the attendees while Tenchi smiles warmly and welcomes her happily.)

Tenchi: Hi, there, Mihoshi. It's great to see you.

(Sagami blinks wryly at the full screen image of Mihoshi's face in his office.)

Sagami: ... Yeah, great... how did you get through the security on this channel?

(She blinks innocently and considers this.)

Mihoshi: What do you mean? I just called Tenchi's house. It didn't work the first few times, but after I reset a few things, I finally got through.

(Nobuyuki closes his eyes and grins stupidly.)

Nobuyuki: We can see that...

(Mihoshi nods and continues.)

Mihoshi: Well, I want to help with Ayeka. I know you're probably working on something about it. Is there a way I can help too?

(Sasami chimes with a ecstatic smile.)

Sasami: Of course you can!

(Tensho sighs and raps his fingers on his chair.)

Tensho: But, can you do something about your transmission?

Mihoshi: Ara? Well... let's see...

(She looks down and tends to something off the visible screen when the display shrinks down to a minute size of a few centimeters. Both groups sigh and hang their heads while the technological tweaking continues. Yet, Yosho keeps a calm eye on his grandson, wondering about the events that have recently transpired in his time away from home.)

Scene 6

(The green leaves glisten from the moisture of the recent melting snow around the Masaki estate. In the distance, birds chirp and welcome the rising sun over the nearby hills and mountains. A subtle breeze blows down the stairs which lead up to the Masaki shrine, sending a slight chill through the bodies of those who would scale them.)

(Nearby, one can hear the air being cut not by the pressure of the atmosphere, but rather by the swing of a weapon. Through the hedges along the path of stairs, a small trail leads away from the stone steps to a clearing where a lone young woman expertly slices the air with a bokken. Her purple hair spikes away from her face and behind her head, held in place by a vine-like hair-band with a chiseled amethyst crest on the left side. This Juraian artifact, one of the five Keys of Jurai, is silent, not drawing or focusing any nearby power sources. Yet, a fire burns in the crimson eyes of the woman, her feline pupils turning toward her imaginary targets before her wooden blade falls upon them.)

(The bounty huntress Nagi Jurai traces her steps through her practice routines, striving to improve her skill with the sword. Crawling down the side of her left cheek is a black mark that she has carried since her birth, Jurai's Mark of Rage, though only partially formed. Dressed in a white gi and red hakama, the skilled woman strikes the air one last time, her voice calling out with a great force from the bottom of her lungs. The wooden blade comes to rest a minute distance from a tree, her eyes glaring deep into its bark, past and through the plant.)

(She speaks softly, her eyes unwavering from their gaze on the tree.)

Nagi: Come out. Slowly.

(She watches as the cyan mane and maternal form of Ryoko Masaki emerge from behind the tree. The Ryoan woman's amber eyes fall upon the huntress, a subtle smirk on her lips. Nagi blinks, noting Ryoko's swollen womb before she lowers her wooden blade and turns her gaze to her side.)

Nagi: So, you have returned, Ryoko.

(Ryoko folds her arms and edges a brow downward.)

Ryoko: Some welcome, little sister.

(Her eyes turn back to Ryoko coldly.)

Nagi: I would prefer that you not call me that.

(The elder scoffs and shakes her head.)

Ryoko: Nice to see you too. Five months with the old man hasn't helped you attitude any.

(The huntress turns to the side and raises her wooden implement again as she replies in her irritation.)

Nagi: I hardly recall my attitude being what I set out to improve.

Ryoko: Yeah, I can tell.

(The younger woman slides forward, her blade swinging up and then down across her imaginary opponent. The elder watches and continues her speech, a frustration slipping into her words.)

Ryoko: I had come up here to talk with you, if you could spare the time, oh great Lady Nagi.

(Nagi swings again and pauses with a slight scowl on her face.)

Nagi: Then speak.

(While the purple-haired woman enters into her kata routine again, the cyan-haired woman leans back against the nearby tree, her gaze a bit distant.)

Ryoko: I thought I'd ask to see how you've been. After all, we did share a mother.

(Nagi does not reply, keeping her concentration on her practice implement while Ryoko continues.)

Ryoko: Which also means, that old priest was kin to you also.

(Her amber eyes turn to the warrior in front of her, who continues unabated. She sighs and shakes her head.)

Ryoko: Right, doesn't make a difference to you. I didn't think it would to me either.

(She closes her eyes and continues.)

Ryoko: I hated that man... but when I saw him cut down...

(Her eyes open, remembering vividly the figure of Leon Tae standing over an older man dressed in the robes of a cleric with a wide gash cut along his back. The dark warrior's onyx-bladed sword of energy burned wildly like the gray eyes in his head as he laughed at the tears rolling down Ryoko's cheeks. Now, she gnashes her teeth while Nagi replies to her story, calmly.)

Nagi: You knew him.

(She strikes once again and utters a strong kiai as she crouches in the attack.)

Nagi: And, he was your family.

(Standing, she adds, lowering her weapon.)

Nagi: It was the similar with me when we fought Tokimi while she possessed our mother.

(Her crimson eyes turn to Ryoko, a slight softness evident in her eyes.)

Nagi: I was much like you after we defeated her.

(Ryoko nods and looks back to her half-sister, who turns her serious gaze back to the house.)

Nagi: However, I would worry more for your mate.

(Ryoko's eyes steel themselves into a fierce glare towards the ground.)

Ryoko: You don't have to tell me that, Nagi. I swear to God if they...

(The younger sister turns to the elder and shakes her head.)

Nagi: I wouldn't be planning anything rash, Ryoko.

(The amber eyes close as she takes a calming breath and raises her gaze to the forests around them.)

Ryoko: I'm not. I'm not going to endanger my baby again.

(She sighs while she adds her comments.)

Ryoko: Taking Tenchi to Ryua was a stupid move. I should've known there would be a trap after all that's happened.

(Nagi's eyes follow her gaze, considering Ryoko's recent actions.)

Nagi: It was something you had to do, showing him who you are.

(The elder sister turns her attention to her sibling and watches her distant gaze. She scoffs and agrees.)

Ryoko: Yeah, it was, though if I did it again, I'd probably plan better.

(Nagi continues to turn away from Ryoko as she comments, her bokken raising to a ready posture.)

Nagi: You have never planned ahead, Ryoko.

(The cyan-maned lady scoffs and critiques back.)

Ryoko: Look who's talking.

(A subtle glare peers from the violet-tressed huntress's eyes to her elder sibling.)

Nagi: Why do you think I was always there when you turned around, Ryoko?

(Ryoko smiles widely, her eyes narrowing with a sly gleam.)

Ryoko: That's not what I mean.

(The bokken lowers as the bounty hunter turns to her past adversary.)

Nagi: Then, what do you mean? My entire career has been carefully planned...

(Ryoko interrupts.)

Ryoko: It's not about your “career”, Nagi. I'm talking about that red-haired Juraian knight you're hot for.

(A pinkish tint burns from below Nagi's wide crimson eyes at this while Ryoko simply nods, her pleased expression only confirmed.)

Nagi: What are you insinuating?

(The former pirate laughs and mocks her sibling.)

Ryoko: Insinuating? Nagi, I'm outright saying it!

(The huntress's free hand clenches tightly while her knuckles grow white around the bokken. The brow of the huntress furrows as Ryoko continues, explaining herself.)

Ryoko: It's all Step-Dad could talk about. “Nagi” this, “Kamidake” that.

Nagi: Ryoko, don't call Father...!

(Ryoko ignores her and continues.)

Ryoko: Seriously, Sis. If you'd wanted to, you'd have him already. He's about as lovesick as you are.

(The frustration and anger fume through Nagi, causing her to visibly scowl at her half-sister. The cyan-haired woman widens her eyes in mock surprise while she continues her taunting.)

Ryoko: What are you getting so mad about? I mean, he's a hot guy. I can see why you'd want him. After all, I married a Juraian man too.

(She grins mischievously and winks as she speaks.)

Ryoko: And, I'll tell you. They are “rooted like trees” alright.

(Finally, the bokken swings from Nagi's side up to edge against Ryoko's neck. Ryoko blinks and glances to the weapon as she chuckles. The crimson eyes of her younger sister burn violently just above her smoldering cheeks.)

Ryoko: I guess I said something wrong?

Nagi: Shut your mouth, Ryoko. I'm not like you, or our mother.

(Ryoko eases two fingers against the bokken and pushes it aside with a confident step forward. She continues to grin, more seductively as she replies.)

Ryoko: Bullshit. You're a woman, just like the rest of us, “Little Sister”.

(Nagi bears a furious blush under the black mark upon her face, her features twisted fiercely toward the other woman with her. The cyan-haired ex-pirate walks past her blood relation with a chuckle to herself. However, the huntress turns her head slightly towards her an anger flaring under her voice.)

Nagi: Be glad you are with child, Ryoko. I wouldn't have let this pass otherwise.

(The Ryoan woman laughs to herself as she answers back.)

Ryoko: A couple more months, and then we'll have that little fight you've always wanted. That alright?

(Nagi listens as a moment passes between them. Then, Ryoko turns back towards the path with one last retort.)

Ryoko: Until then, change your panties and relax, Sis. I can smell your hormones from here.

(The purple-haired lady warrior spins around with her sword ready and her teeth tight to only see Ryoko slip back into the trees, that sly grin on her face. Nagi closes her eyes and takes a breath, her grip tightening on her weapon. Her eyes open narrowly as she enters her kata, stiff and preoccupied.)

Scene 7

(A door opens, shedding light down upon the black lacquer finish of the floor below. Blinking hesitantly, Tenchi Masaki steps into this silent and darkened room, looking from side to side confusedly. He comments to himself as he ponders his situation.)

Tenchi: This isn't a bedroom...

(He turns back to the door with a wry smile on his face and a chuckle to himself.)

Tenchi: It's probably something Washu's playing with.

(However, as he reaches for the door again, it swiftly fades from sight. Tenchi's eyes widen and blink dumbly while his hand passes through the space once occupied by the door, finding no substance. He swings his hands through the now vacant space, assuring the portal's disappearance.)

Tenchi: What the...?!

(The Juraian prince takes a step back and scratches the back of his head with a mild chuckle.)

Tenchi: Great...

(Tenchi calls out to the blackness around him.)

Tenchi: Hello? Washu? Are you there?

(In response to his voice, two bright lights shine into existence from the floor a few meters before him. Above each hangs a large monolithic block, rectangular in shape and completely black. Written in red text across the one to his left is “MASAKI”, “00”, “SOUND ONLY”. The one to his right bears “MASAKI”, “01”, “SOUND ONLY” in the same font and color.)

(Tenchi raises a brow at these when a familiar voice rises from “01”, his father's.)

Nobuyuki: Masaki Tenchi, I'm glad we could get a hold of you.

(Dumbfounded, Tenchi answers.)

Tenchi: Dad...?

(The two lights flash brighter for a moment as the monoliths fade away and leave Nobuyuki and Yosho sitting behind a long onyx desk, facing Tenchi. The elder men rest their arms upon the table, fingers laced together just under their noses and the lenses of their glasses catching the glaring light beneath them. The young prince grimaces at this, confused at the charade they are playing.)

(Nobuyuki speaks again, his tone rather plain.)

Nobuyuki: Now that you're going to be a father, there are certain... issues we need to discuss.

(Yosho adds, neither man moving from their authoritative posture.)

Yosho: You now have many responsibilities that will demand your attention.

(Tenchi blinks, his wry expression beading drops of sweat in his hair.)

Tenchi: Uh... Dad? Grandpa? What's going on?

(Nobuyuki comments.)

Nobuyuki: You shouldn't run around the issue, Tenchi.

(Yosho nods.)

Yosho: No, you mustn't run away, Tenchi. You mustn't run away.

(The young man blinks and sighs to himself.)

Tenchi: Did I just walk into some screwed up anime or something?

Nobuyuki: Have you considered a name for the child?

(Tenchi looks up to the two men as Yosho adds.)

Yosho: Yes, a strong name. Perhaps, “Shin...”

(Tenchi interrupts, a slight scowl to his lips.)

Tenchi: I'm not going to name my kid that, Grandpa!

Nobuyuki: Then, what about “Re...”?

(He shakes his head and reiterates.)

Tenchi: No, Dad! Not that either!

(The two take a breath to continue when Tenchi steps forward and answers them immediately and clearly.)

Tenchi: And, don't even try that third one.

(The two men glance to one another and shrug their shoulders before returning their attentions to the one before them.)

Nobuyuki: Then, your occupation? With a wife and child, you need to be able to provide for them.

Yosho: A father and husband must be able to put his family before himself.

(The young prince glances to the side and nods. His thoughts cross the young woman carrying his child elsewhere in the house, how she had once flown the skies and now was restricted to the ground by her coming offspring. Within him, several drives twist within him: love for her and the unseen little one, duty to support them and protect them, and some regret that her temporary lack of the powers she so enjoyed.)

Tenchi: I've been thinking about that. Now that we're back on Earth, I'll see about getting work.

(Tenchi grins slightly and glances to his father.)

Tenchi: I didn't want us to weigh you down, Dad.

(With a little surprise, Nobuyuki raises his head slightly, the glare leaving his glasses. His eyes meet his son's as the young man continues with a more serious tone.)

Tenchi: I know I haven't gone onto college like everyone had hoped, and with Ryoko and the baby, it seems even less likely now. Taking this long honeymoon across the stars was irresponsible of me. I probably should have stayed on Earth and tried to get back to a normal life sooner.

(The clashing of swords echoes in his memories as he nods.)

Tenchi: It would have saved us all a lot of trouble.

(Nobuyuki listens while Yosho turns his head to his son-in-law, the glare filling his glasses and his judging expression. Tenchi bows deeply.)

Tenchi: I'm sorry if I've disappointed you. Dad, Grandpa.

(Nobuyuki looks across to his son's bowing form and remembers the great deeds this young man has accomplished in his life. When his peers were studying for college entrance exams, Tenchi was locked in combat with an evil dictator, the usurper Kagato. When they got prime seats in universities, he saved a Juraian princess, Ayeka, and her empire. Yet, when he was recognized as the true heir to the throne, he humbly denied it and came back to Earth, ignoring the honor and praise.)

(Tenchi then returned to his studies, but then appeared one day with several injuries and very weak. The girls never really explained how it happened, but the way they glanced away told volumes in itself. Tenchi had set aside his life for someone else once again.)

(Nobuyuki's eyes open wide as he takes a sudden breath. An image fills his mind, one of his son tossed aside holding his blue energy sword, the same which bears his name. A creature of black, pulsating fire drifted forward, its white mask smiling sadistically as it raised a clawed hand to him. Yelling, Tenchi charged his blade again, but it was a second, female voice that caught Nobuyuki's attention.)

(He can see her, young and vibrant. Her black hair billowed around her as her stern command seemed to shatter the glass of nearby case and sweep it into the enemy. Then, he could only look at her dumbly and utter her name.)

Nobuyuki: Achika...

(In the present age, Nobuyuki stands and gazes down at his son's respectfully penitent bow. Now understanding, he steps from around the desk and kneels next to his son. He places a hand on his son's shoulder and smiles as the young man's eyes raise to his, now seeing past the glare.)

Nobuyuki: You haven't disappointed me, son. Not in the least.

(Yosho watches with his fingers wed before his face as the glare beneath him fills the lenses of his glasses. A tear appears at the edge of Nobuyuki's eye as he nods his head.)

Nobuyuki: Not every man gets to watch his son surpass him.

(Tenchi blinks confusedly.)

Tenchi: Dad...?

(Nobuyuki grips his son's shoulder and smiles wider, more proudly.)

Nobuyuki: Not every man can say his son is a hero.

(The two stand together as the father wraps his arms around his son and holds him tightly.)

Nobuyuki: Congratulations, Tenchi, for everything.

(Tenchi hugs his father in return, patting the elder on his back as he tries to discern the situation. A distance away, Yosho grins under his hands and adds to himself.)

Yosho: Congratulations, both of you.

Scene 8

(Ryoko's voice yells out through Washu's laboratory.)

Ryoko: Let me go, Washu!

(In the bowels of the great scientist's workplace, metal hands hold Ryoko Masaki to an examination table while wave after wave of spectral light passes over her maternal body. Luminescent planes wash over her squirming form while she wrestles against the restraints one her wrists and ankles. Her eyes scowl, the anger and displeasure most apparent from her expression.)

(Nearby, the minute genius Washu Hakubi sits at her many translucent displays, intently watching the incoming data from her sensing machines. Without glancing away from her precious information, she answers Ryoko's calls.)

Washu: In a minute. I'm busy right now.

(Ryoko curses as she stops her resistance and just lifts her head to glare at the red-haired Ryoan girl.)

Ryoko: Busy, my ass! I swear to God, Washu! If you don't...!!

(Washu shakes her head and interrupts.)

Washu: Didn't Dr Naga say it could be bad if you used your newly-acquired powers while carrying the baby?

(At this, Ryoko clenches her fists and growls to herself in frustration as she lowers her head. Washu grins to herself and adds.)

Washu: Good girl.

(Ryoko curls her lip and questions the genius.)

Ryoko: What's the point of this anyway? So, I can use Light Hawk Wings like Tenchi. What about it?

(Washu nods, her eyes skimming over the trails of numbers and diagrams passing before her eyes. While she does answer, her voice is rather distant, her true thoughts elsewhere.)

Washu: That's part of it, yes.

(The short woman spins her floating seat to face Ryoko while one display drifts forward next to her. Extending her hand to the screen, the scientist points to “Energy Type: Jurai” listed in the multitude of metrics drawn from scans of the pregnant subject.)

Washu: Can you tell me anything about this?

(Ryoko glances at the datum and then distantly off to the side. Within her mind, she recalls the black flames licking at the bluish sphere keeping the darkness away. The former pirate can feel Tenchi's arm holding her close, her former powers of flight stolen. Then, the flames part, allowing a single woman to step through this grim corridor of fire. Wearing a black and red gown, this woman approaches slowly, her red and blue eyes centered completely on Ryoko. Tokimi grins from behind Ryoshu Ryua's face.)

(Ryoko answers coldly, her spite at the mental image quite evident.)

Ryoko: Nothing, really.

(Washu narrows her eyes and nods her head slowly.)

Washu: Right.

(She turns away from the future mother and comments aloud.)

Washu: It's rather apparent that you lost your Ryoan energies right around the time you were attacked by one of the “spawn-ships” during the first battle over Manhattan.

(Her hands grip one another behind her back as she raises her head. A display opens before her, and within it, a fuzzy image of Ryoko can be seen floating amongst the clouds of a darkening sky. Draped in her old fire uniform and at her physical prime, the former pirate starts to slide through the air to the side when a black blur shoots by her position, red lines of force ensnaring her and pulling her downward toward it.)

(The image freezes as the small instructor continues her explanation.)

Washu: When you returned to Earth after Tenchi's metamorphosis, you dutifully stayed by his side until Ayeka, under Tokimi's influence, entered the picture and nearly killed you.

(She glances back to see Ryoko eying her quietly, her expression unhappily attentive.)

Washu: I've known you for some time, Ryoko, and you've never backed down from Ayeka before.

(Ryoko narrows her eyes and retorts.)

Ryoko: That wasn't Ayeka.

Washu: Oh, I'm well-aware, as are all of us who saw what came next.

(Holding her chin in thought, she turns back to her monitors.)

Washu: But, I'm noticing several similar patterns.

(With a glance, a display winks to life showing a split-screen of two images. One shows the violet-tressed princess of Jurai, Ayeka Jurai, standing amongst several blackened cylinders of her creation. Her tightly-fitted combat attire is torn and bloodied by her own wounds, but her face is twisted into gleeful smile. The other image depicts Ayeka Jurai as she would be seen today in combat: azure hair flowing behind her, a crimson and onyx Juraian battle suit, and a focused determination.)

Washu: Back during the time we were in Manhattan the first time, Ayeka became host to some NVO-based energy being, not unlike Kain, Tokimi's “son”. While it was within her, it's influence obviously grew until it nearly consumed her.

(Her green eyes narrow looking at the “Azure Ayeka” image.)

Washu: However, at the same time, after the creature's influence was removed, Ayeka's power plumed far beyond any of her previous manifestations. Ayeka was the princess of Jurai's Royal Family so it is natural that her power be strong, but not like that.

(She turns back to Ryoko.)

Washu: It's like an immune system fighting off a disease. It grows strong in proportion to the sickness it must combat. Once the disease is defeated, antibodies remain in case of a relapse.

(Ryoko answers as a matter of fact, sighing with impatience.)

Ryoko: That's kinda obvious, isn't it? You've said before that NVO is essentially “anti-Jurai” energy.

(The researcher nods and then motions another screen towards them.)

Washu: Yes, I have, and I haven't entirely changed from that view. However, there is data that suggests that this relationship isn't simply an antithesis between the two.

(The screen blinks into clarity, showing an image of Ryoko and the violet-haired Ayeka standing side-by-side on an asphalt road. Opposite these two women stands a huge, anthropomorphic mantis creature. The image starts to move slowly, demonstrating an orb of energy flying from the outstretched claws of the monster toward the two protagonists. Together, they raise their arms to protect themselves, consciously summoning energy shields of their own. However, the two fields overlap and blend. When the blast impacts this, a flash of brilliant white light consumes the view, dimming to show an ashen barrier around the monster. This frail wall immediately begins to erode and disintegrate into vapor.)

(Washu nods to the image and explains.)

Washu: Your shield blended with Ayeka's, as did your power and Tenchi's when you two faced this little gimmick. Also, you and Nagi did similar in the skies over Manhattan, shortly before your powers were drained away.

(Ryoko shrugs.)

Ryoko: So what? I never had Kain's power.

(Washu raises a brow.)

Washu: Oh, but didn't you? And, doesn't every Ryoan alive? When Mecha-Nerti held us in Zed's office, Ryo-Ohki and I both touched the barrier she put up. It physically prevented us from exiting, but it didn't burn us like it did the Terrans who tried. It most certainly didn't actively attack us like it did Sasami.

(Washu then scoffs.)

Washu: And, besides, Tokimi's got direct ties to Ryua's faith as well as history. Tsunami's story not withstanding, it's more than mere coincidence. Ryoan energy is not pure NVO-type energy like Kain, but it's a variant of it, less powerful but more prevalent.

(The screen flickers and shows an image of Nagi Jurai, dressed in a celestial kimono of white, framed with the deepest blood crimson. The Mark of Rage crawls down both of her cheeks while her normally spiked hair flows as smooth as the oceans. Around her hand is wrapped the Key of Jurai given to her by her father, and from it, a burning saber of wild and chaotic force extends. The blade sparks erratically with red and blue filaments bursting from its edges. Washu nods to the image and continues.)

Washu: And, then there's Nagi, a cross-breed between Ryoan and Juraian noble bloodlines. The two powers coexist within her body, even though she's still not completely able to control them together. It's likely that the lower potency of Ryoan energy may account for her ability to wield both.

(She turns back to her current audience and adds.)

Washu: She is rather unique, though not completely. Analyses of Jurai Kagato's manifestations show distortions similar to those from Ayeka's time carrying that being within her. Also, close observation of Masaki Achika's performance against Kain has shown that when she used Tenchiken, some of Kain's emanations were drawn into the sword. No doubt, this was what caused its partial transformation.

(Ryoko shakes her head and answers with a frustration in her voice.)

Ryoko: Washu, what has this got to do with me or the baby?

(Washu's brow twitches.)

Washu: Figures.

(She sighs and clarifies.)

Washu: Something very singular has happened to you, Ryoko. When your powers were taken away, it hasn't just some temporary blocking like with Nerti's NVO generator or the sinium solution. Your ties to that power were completely and utterly severed. Your body now generates Jurai Power on its own, independent of any outside source.

(Ryoko blinks and glances to the side listening idly.)

Washu: This is unprecedented. What's more, your child is the same.

(The pregnant lady's eyes widen in realization of these words.)

Washu: It's been rather obvious that Jurai Power and Ryoan Power are hereditary. As such, one would expect your child to be very similar to Nagi, but that's not true. The child might have a genome that's half Ryoan, but the energy the kid will wield will be as pure Juraian as Ayeka or Sasami's. Do you understand now?

(Here eyes dart back to Washu as the researcher adds.)

Washu: It means it's not only possible to remove the ability to manifest one of these energies, but also replace it with another, or even have them coexist. It was already apparent that the ability could be added from Pii and Nerti, but you're evidence that the reverse is equally possible. Not only are these energies opposites, but in a sense, they are equals as well, one replaceable by the other.

(She grins to herself as she postulates.)

Washu: One wonders if the power to summon Light Hawk Wings is also just as transferable, under the correct circumstances.

(Ryoko's eyes glare at Washu when the great scientist smiles and shakes her head with a nonchalant remark to follow.)

Washu: Don't worry so much, Ryoko. It's not like I'm going to try and rip off your wings, or Tenchi's. I'm more interested to see them in action again, or see if your child develops their use.

(Ryoko pulls at the restraints lightly, impatient.)

Ryoko: Look, Washu. I'm done listening to your rant, and I'm tired of behind attached to this damned table. I'm not your guinea pig, and I'm not going to put up with being treated like one.

(The genius takes a step back and turns to her consoles with a scoff.)

Washu: Well, you're not going to win “mother of the year” with that kind of attitude.

(The ex-pirate snaps back.)

Ryoko: As if you would?

(The red-head's hands slide up to her hips as she looks back.)

Washu: Well, with all the checking on you and your baby, I was starting to feel like a mother to you.

(She sighs, raising her hands to her cheeks. With a exceedingly cute grin and girlish tone, she mocks the mother-to-be.)

Washu: Oh, my little Ryoko! You're baby will be so cute! I hope he or she takes after me!

(Ryoko barks back, tugging at the table again.)

Ryoko: Shut up, Washu! You're hardly my mother!

(Washu's eyes widen, as if hurt, when she sniffles, continuing her charade.)

Washu: Why would you talk to Momma that way, little Ryoko? After all I've worked and slaved to make a home for you.

(Ryoko sighs and falls back on the table, frustrated to no end.)

Ryoko: God... Mom, did you have to put up with this shit...?

(Cutely, Washu answers.)

Washu: You have no idea.

(Ryoko growls back.)

Ryoko: I wasn't asking you!

(Washu only laughs to herself as she returns to her analyses.)

Scene 9

(A chime rings at the door of the newly redesigned Masaki residence, and from within, the azure-haired visage of Sasami Jurai steps toward the door. As the young princess advances toward the door, she pauses for a moment, a coldness washing over her skin. The crest imprinted in her forehead shimmers some as she raises her eyes to the door again. However, this initial sensation fades, replaced by a subtle warmth. Curious, the princess considers this to herself.)

Sasami: What's this...? It felt like Nerti or Mr Pii...

(When she reaches the door, the warm feeling has enveloped her, welcoming her like the rays of a new sunrise. She smiles softly, though a lingering remnant of that cold emanation remains in Sasami's consciousness. Opening the door, Sasami smiles to meet the expression mirrored on the face of her guest, Nerti Pii The blond mother-to-be nods to Sasami and greets her.)

Nerti: Hello, Sasami.

(Sasami reciprocates this.)

Sasami: Hi, Nerti. Are you doing better?

(Nerti nods and confidently answers.)

Nerti: Very much so.

(However, her eyes grow some concern as she continues.)

Nerti: What about you?

(Sasami glances to the side, her teenage eyes showing a weight held far behind. The young woman nods her head.)

Sasami: Yeah, I've been... keeping busy.

(Nerti watches as the maturing princess shies her feelings aside and presents a pleasant and friendly smile.)

Sasami: I bet you're here to see Washu, right? She's still in her lab, I believe.

(Sasami starts for the portal to the lab while Nerti watches her somberly, seeing that regal fortitude learned from Jurai. To Nerti's eyes, Ayeka Jurai's features momentarily superimpose themselves over Sasami's, the comparison so firm at this instant.)

Nerti: Sasami...

(The doctoral student opens her mouth to continue, but Sasami soon speaks and silences her comment.)

Sasami: It's alright, Nerti. I know my sister is innocent. We just have to wait for everyone else to realize that.

(Nerti nods and adds.)

Nerti: I'm sure she is, but I was more worried about you right now.

(The teen smiles warmly and glances to the ground for a moment of reflection before she replies.)

Sasami: Thanks, but I'll be alright as soon as Ayeka is free again.

Nerti: I know, though I'd like you to know that there are those you can lean on if you need support of your own.

(Sasami's eyes settle onto Nerti's, just above her gentle smile. To Sasami's eyes, she can see a gentle golden flame flicker over the soft gray of the blonde's eyes, welcoming like the sensation she felt before. The azure-haired girl grins slightly and responds.)

Sasami: Thanks. I know there are.

(Before Sasami can continue, the door to Washu's lab bursts open suddenly. The young princess slides aside, startled while Nerti's eyes widen at the unannounced event. Ryoko Masaki steps out, her face and voice very irate as she spins back toward the doorway.)

Ryoko: I swear, Washu! I'm not putting up with your shit another second!

(As she storms from the door toward the kitchen, sweat beads in their hair of Sasami and Nerti watching the spectacle of the pregnant Ryoan woman walk before them. At the inter-dimensional doorway, the minute genius Washu Hakubi leans against the frame and calls back to Ryoko with her hand to her mouth.)

Washu: Alright. See you in a week, “Little Ryoko”.

(Ryoko spins back to her and yells back with a hateful scowl.)

Ryoko: Like hell!

(Washu chuckles to herself while Ryoko slips into the the kitchen, leaving Sasami and Nerti rather dumbfounded at the little scene they just witnessed. The two then turn to Washu who shakes her head and comments aside with an entertained smile.)

Washu: Ah, the joys of motherhood,that I might live them vicariously.

(She cackles to herself when Sasami grins wryly and questions her.)

Sasami: Uh... Washu. What happened?

Washu: Oh, just some playing doctor and talk about her baby.

(Sasami sweats a few more drops while she adds.)

Sasami: I should probably go calm her down then.

(She bows to Nerti, who reciprocates.)

Sasami: Nice seeing you again, Nerti.

Nerti: You too, Sasami.

(The teenager then follows Ryoko into the kitchen while Washu turns to Nerti and considers her, keeping that humored smile.)

Washu: Now, what can I do to my graduate student?

(Sweat rolls down Nerti's hair as she grins wryly herself.)

Nerti: Lovely choice of words, Professor...

Washu: Weren't they?

(Nerti shakes away the silly smile on her lips and sighs lightly.)

Nerti: We need to talk about the comments on my thesis. Most of them...

(Washu nods and completes her student's sentence, her expression shifting to severity from her previous levity.)

Washu: Are asinine. I know.

Nerti: Then, why would a tenured professor like Dr Maguma...?

(Again, the great scientist interrupts, her green eyes icy and quiet.)

Washu: Simple. She, or someone has ties to, wants you to stop your work, and she has the power to do so.

(Nerti stands listening to the great intellect as she steps out into the Masaki hallway and continues her evaluation.)

Washu: Of course, this bombing at the Science Academy helps nothing. No doubt the Galaxy Police have been trying to contact you.

(Washu looks back toward her student, catching her nod, affirming the red-head's suspicions. Washu turns her attention back towards the sunlight entering from the windows in the nearby den.)

Washu: Preliminary reports from the ruins have that there were significant levels of NVO energy released from the explosion. Being the only SA student actively studying it and your recent problems with the law under Jezibel's influence make you the prime suspect.

(Nerti's eyes narrow with thought as she questions her academic advisor.)

Nerti: They're related, aren't they? I'm being shut down.

(The great mind agrees.)

Washu: In all aspects. You were conceived to be the avatar for Ryua's goddess and have subsequently denied that purpose. Crossing a being of that much power and influence usually comes with a heavy price.

(Nerti grips her hands tightly and scowls as she turns to gaze out the window as well, watching the sun's reflection on the waters of the lake. Washu shakes her head.)

Washu: Anger won't solve this, Nerti.

(The blond lowers her eyes slightly with a nod, understandingly.)

Nerti: I understand, professor, but I'm not heartless.

(Washu scoffs and grins as she glances back to her student.)

Washu: I'm well-aware, and pleased. A student who does not love their work soon either loses interest and quits, or becomes a burden on the school.

(Nerti blinks while the minute Ryoan turns back to her.)

Washu: Nerti, I have had several students...

(She raises a brow as she glances to the side.)

Washu: ... not in the last seven-hundred years...

(Shaking her head, she returns to her previous statement.)

Washu: But, in my tenure, I've seen all types of students come and go. Most fail initially due to lack of ability. Of those who remain, many quit because they don't have the drive to continue. Your ability is unquestionable, and I'm sure that even Airi would have to acknowledge that.

(Her eyes narrow when a passion powers her voice further.)

Washu: This is a test of your drive, Nerti Ro Pii. Can you persevere? When your theories are laughed at? When they are condemned? When you yourself are placed under personal attack?

(Nerti closes her eyes and lowers her head while Washu comments, turning back toward the sunlight with her expression chilling back into its icy coldness.)

Washu: I can't advise you on this. It is your life, as well as those of your husband and child. I also will understand if you choose to quit.

(A moment of silence passes between the two of them before Nerti raises her head and opens her gray eyes upon her mentor.)

Nerti: If I quit, those behind this won't stop. You know that as well as I do.

(The professor turns and meets the hardening gaze of the blond mother-to-be.)

Nerti: And, I will not allow another part of my life to be stolen.

(Washu's lips arc into a smile while her hands rest on her hips.)

Washu: Then, we have plans of our own to make, don't we?

(Nerti blinks curiously and comments.)

Nerti: You mean you don't have one already?

(Washu smiles wider and more deviously.)

Washu: ... I do now.

Scene 10

(Text scrolls across the transparent screens surrounding the teal-tressed Galaxy Police lieutenant, Kiyone Makibi. Among the three of these, she currently concentrates on the one before her, which bears a mixture of Juraian script and the common Galactic tongue written below in translation. In particular, the one before her reads “Arraignment of Jurai Ayeka”, “Submitted by Keita Hiro”. Following the headings and formality, a vague description of Ayeka's quiet surrender to the authorities on Jurai is depicted.)

(She leans back in her chair, closes her blue eyes, and rubs them slowly, hoping to ease the stress felt in her head. The other two displays show details from the scenes of the assassination of Murakami Ryua and the bombing of the Universal Science Academy's construction site on Earth. Various images of the different crime scenes proliferate the displays: the blown-out hull of the Science Academy building, the slashes and blood stains on the masonry of the Tokimian temple. Amidst the evidence and witness accounts cited, the names of suspects are listed as well, most prominently “Masaki Tenchi” and “Pii Nerti” are mentioned in each, respectively.)

(Standing, the officer takes a glass of tea from her desk and sips from it, refreshing the dryness coating her mouth. She turns her eyes to the nearby window where the cosmic ballet continues unabated by the worries of even the most noble and influential individuals. To herself, she remarks.)

Kiyone: They've covered this pretty well: the lingering energy confirmed to be NVO type, the murder inside the temple with several witnesses...

(Her eyes narrow.)

Kiyone: With the right argument, this would condemn them both.

(She turns back to the holographic panel holding the evidence from the arrest on Jurai: the specialists' reports on forgeries of death certificates, the recent odd behavior of the princess, and the holes in various academic records from that time. Staring at these, the officer adds.)

Kiyone: Ayeka's situation is even more of a mystery, a classic “cold case”. Much of the old evidence has been lost or sealed, making it even more difficult to investigate.

(She sips her tea and closes her eyes with a warm sigh, feeling the drink issue heat to her body as it passes. Her finger taps slowly, impatiently on the panel while her thoughts grind through the possibilities, and deny each.)

Kiyone: I know Ayeka and Tenchi. This is not something that either is capable of, except possibly in self-defense. Tenchi, I know, would have turned himself in voluntarily, not try to hide the fact. Ayeka, despite all her heated brawls with Ryoko, has never turned her powers to someone in anger.

(Kiyone's left shoulder pangs her with a muscle spasm as she recalls the blond woman who thrust a sword of white light through her body. Those feline eyes, crimson irises with blue corneas, stare blankly back at her, the sharp scythe in her other hand and clad in white armor.)

Kiyone: What I know of Nerti Pii, it's possible that she was manipulated into the bombing, but I doubt she would do it of her own free will, not with a child on the way.

(A chime rings from the panels as a new display appears amongst them, reading “Incoming Call”, “Kitahoshi Takeshi”. She sighs hard and sets her cup on her desk before wiping her hand over her face. Kiyone taps an ethereal key on the panel, changing the view to another young Galaxy Police officer. His red hair is cut to a military regulation style, far away from his dark gray eyes which have a serious concern hidden within. He quickly starts to speak.)

Takeshi: Kiyo, I need to talk with you.

(She shakes her head, her eyes centered squarely on his.)

Kiyone: The answer is “no”, Takeshi. These are my friends. I'm not going to abandon them.

(He nods.)

Takeshi: I'm well-aware of that, which is why you shouldn't get involved. You'll let your feelings cloud your judgment.

(Her eyes scowl back at him, a feeling of insult filling her.)

Kiyone: What do you take me for, a rookie? I know these people, Takeshi. I know their personalities and their drives. I know two of them are completely incapable of what they're accused.

Takeshi: And, the third?

Kiyone: It's possible she was manipulated, but from what I have seen of her, she would not have done this of her own free will.

(He closes his eyes and sighs to the side as he comments.)

Takeshi: That's not what Jurai and the Galactic Union think in any of those three cases. All of them are high on the list of likely suspects.

(The lieutenant shakes her head and continues.)

Kiyone: Have you even looked at the evidence?

(He turns back to her, his own frown showing.)

Takeshi: Actually, I have. The investigators on Ryua have numerous accounts of Masaki Tenchi arriving on the scene and fighting his way into the temple. There are signs of... God, Kiyone, a sword duel and a firefight in the sanctuary! Ryua Shinya, Murakami's own son, is supposed to be on that list of witnesses.

Kiyone: And, you know how unreliable witnesses are! He hasn't even given his deposition yet!

Takeshi: There's also the Princess Ayeka. Much of the evidence is circumstantial, but it's likely that she will confess from the sources within Jurai's bureaus.

Kiyone: She won't. Ayeka's a strong woman and wouldn't just accept something like this.

Takeshi: And, what about Nerti Pii? She had a record with the GP before the incident on Earth six months ago; her thesis was rejected by the Science Academy; and she is one of few with the know-how to make that NVO-based explosive used on Earth.

(Kiyone shakes her head and sighs with her reply.)

Kiyone: You don't see what's happening, Takeshi.

Takeshi: I could say the same of you. Did you listen to yourself just now?

(Her eyes harden at this as she rests her hands on her desk and meets his eyes.)

Kiyone: I have faith in them, Takeshi. It's something you come to have when you've lived, fought, and died with someone for a long time.

(An anger and frustration issue her next sentence.)

Kiyone: Something you wouldn't know about.

(Takeshi blinks, struck by her words for a moment before he can reply.)

Takeshi: ... What do you mean by that, Kiyone?

(Her face turns from him as she answers.)

Kiyone: You always see the worst situation first, just like everyone else at the GP.

(She glances back to him.)

Kiyone: You're the third person who's called to tell me to stop this investigation.

(He opens his arms and pleads to her.)

Takeshi: This isn't your case! It's not your responsibility!

(Her arm swings to the side as she retorts.)

Kiyone: It is! They're my friends, Takeshi! My family!

(The concern wells in his eyes again.)

Takeshi: And, what about me?

(The lieutenant closes her eyes and takes a breath.)

Kiyone: Don't.

(He shakes his head and continues.)

Takeshi: I'm worried about you, Kiyo! You're tangling in the affairs of three different governments that aren't known for their beneficence toward one another.

(Her eyes open, a cold stare of burning betrayal held within them, while her counterpart extends his plea.)

Takeshi: You're a strong woman, Kiyone, and I love that about you. However, you have to know when to let someone else handle something.

(Unshaken, she answers, coldly in tone but her eyes dancing lividly.)

Kiyone: ... Why did you join the Galaxy Police, Takeshi?

(He blinks, confused and questioning.)

Takeshi: What does that...?

(She interrupts.)

Kiyone: Just answer me.

Takeshi: To follow my legacy. My father and grandfather were officers, and so am I. It's who I am.

Kiyone: I joined to solve the case, Takeshi, to catch the bad guy, to serve and protect those who can't.

(Passion sparks from her tongue as she waves to the other displays around her, directing him to them.)

Kiyone: I've seen them protect the rest of us many times, from things I don't even think you could imagine. And, I've been with them through it. I'm part of this. I have been since I went to Earth, and I'm not going to just ignore it, not when I can make a difference.

(He is stunned as a moment passes, her eyes squarely set upon him. Then, she continues, the same fervor in her speech.)

Kiyone: And, never... never try to use our relationship like this again.

(Speechless, Takeshi lowers his eyes shamefully when a second communication panel appears next his, reading “Jurai Sagami”. Kiyone glances to the side before she softly speaks to him again, a chill still lingering in her voice.)

Kiyone: That's my calling, Takeshi. I'm going to answer it.

(She turns toward the panel when her beau lifts his voice.)

Takeshi: Kiyone, wait.

(She pauses.)

Takeshi: Just a moment.

(Her eyes follow back to him as he sighs and nods.)

Takeshi: Just be careful, please. IA has their eyes on you now as well.

(She nods before his gaze drifts down and away, the viewing window closing into nothingness. Her eyes close, a sharp breath heaving her chest as a regret pricks its way around her heart. Nevertheless, her hand makes its way to the panel from Sagami, where the window expands, bringing forth an image of both the brown-haired Juraian captain and his flame-haired colleague, Ramia Juraihelm.)

(The two nobles from the world of trees bow to her in greeting before they open their conversation.)

Sagami: Lieutenant Makibi.

Ramia: I trust you have a moment to speak.

(She nods slowly and then turns back to face them, reasserting her professional demeanor.)

Kiyone: Of course. Have you two turned up anything on your end?

(Both smile confidently with their acknowledgment.)

Sagami: Oh, but yes, we have.

Ramia: You have no more worries from Jurai, lieutenant.

(Kiyone grins.)

Kiyone: So, you got to them?

(Sagami nods.)

Sagami: Yes. We face the tribunal tomorrow with Ayeka.

(Kiyone grips her lips tightly in a triumphant smile and a forceful, successful nod.)

Kiyone: That's excellent news.

(The male captain then steps forward and nods soberly.)

Sagami: It is, but now our task begins anew. We need to concern ourselves with the plight of Masaki Tenchi next.

(Kiyone's expression cools as she agrees.)

Kiyone: Right. I have passage to Ryua booked shortly after my stop at the Science Academy offices on Todain. Good luck, both of you tomorrow.

(They bow gratefully.)

Sagami: And, you as well.

Scene 11

(Winds billow through the leaves of the forests surrounding the Masaki Shrine, as well as the violet spikes of Nagi Jurai's hair. Dressed in red hakama and a white gi, the bounty huntress continues ascending the multitude of stone steps in silence. At her side, a bokken rests, dented and splintered along its blade from repeated use.)

(However, her slightly pointed ears perk at the sound of wood striking wood nearby, coupled with shuffling footsteps. Hearing this, she promptly draws her practice weapon and rushes toward the well-known clearing away from the steps. As she approaches, the sounds of battle become louder, joined with the breathing of the two male combatants. Her eyes hard and set, she swipes through the last branches and leaps toward the battle, weapon falling toward the nearest of the two.)

(The young man targeted by Nagi slides aside, as does his opponent. The female warrior lands and tucks into a roll to the side. Recovering, the three turn and face one another. Nagi analyzes her situation: her mentor Yosho Jurai standing to her right with bokken drawn and his grandson Tenchi Masaki to her left also with practice implement in hand. Yosho is dressed as he always has in recent times, a blue hakama and white gi, his bokken in a proper kendo stance before him. Sporting his long hair in a tail behind his head much like Yosho, Tenchi wears his usual selection of blue pants and brown jacket, left slightly open in his exertion. His weapon is parallel to the ground, the blade edge up near his head and pointed toward Yosho and Nagi.)

(Yosho grins to himself and nods toward Nagi.)

Yosho: See? I told you she was spry, Tenchi.

(Nagi glances between them when Tenchi grins wryly.)

Tenchi: So you did, Grandpa.

(The grandfather's eyes turn to Nagi as he continues.)

Yosho: She has a lot of fire, a lot like Ryoko.

(Nagi's eyes narrow at this comparison while Tenchi answers, his expression growing more serious.)

Tenchi: I wouldn't doubt it.

(As Nagi's eyes turn to Tenchi, Yosho grins a bit wider at her distraction when he adds.)

Yosho: Shall we continue our warm up with her?

(The young man comments, his eyes fixed to Nagi's.)

Tenchi: I have no problem with it.

Yosho: What do you say then, Nagi?

(The huntress settles, her weight on her back foot and weapon held at the ready.)

Nagi: Come.

(At this, Tenchi slides forward, his sword thrusting forward to Nagi's abdomen. She steps back and deflects it with her own false blade. The two recover their weapons and clash again while the master sheathes his weapon and steps around the two, watching distantly.)

(Nagi's sword slides along Tenchi's as she circles him toward his back. When her weapon separates from his, she swings, but his feet glide along the ground, only letting the edge catch the trim of his jacket. Retaliating, he strikes at her shoulder with a spinning attack, yet she raises her blade to block.)

(The young prince strikes low toward Nagi's legs, and she retreats a step, blocking again. She continues away as Tenchi advances quickly, forcing her to stiffen and block. Yosho folds his arms, noting.)

Yosho: Wasn't expecting this, was she?

(He issues a few stern orders.)

Yosho: Don't go easy, Tenchi! Give her a good feeling!

(With this, Tenchi slides back, giving Nagi a distance to approach, sword raised. When the blade drops, he moves aside and lets the wood hit only air, his own thrust aimed directly at her head. Nagi's eyes narrow as she steps through her failed strike, avoiding the incoming blade. The two immediately turn and clash swords again, exchanging a series of blows.)

(On the final shared swipe, Tenchi's foot rises at Nagi's belly, but she glides away, bokken ready. Yet, she rushes and swings at him again, forcing him to block. However, her left hand leaves the sword and grabs his arm, pulling suddenly. Tenchi's eyes widen some as his balance breaks, sending him forward. His foot steps into Nagi's defenses while she goes to his side, drawing her blade back to strike.)

(As she thrusts, Tenchi ducks and rolls to the side, rising quickly again to his feet defensively. Yosho nods with a guttural affirmation of the practice before him. He calls out, raising his hand.)

Yosho: Enough!

(The two combatants halt their conflict and turn to face the master, their weapons lowering. The legendary man lets his hand return to his side while he nods to Nagi.)

Yosho: Good. Now, let's move on to why Tenchi is really here.

(He nods to his grandson who sets the bokken to rest at his belts and produces the Tenchiken Key from his jacket.)

Yosho: It's time we see how much you know about your abilities. First, we'll focus on the side of your nature we know the most about.

(Nagi nods and sheathes the practice weapon at her hip before removing her hairband Key. Held in her right hand, the Key wraps around her palm, the violet crest next to the knuckle of her index finger. She and Tenchi raise their Keys toward one another, and the crests of the two shimmer and shine, acknowledging one another.)

(Yosho watches and nods.)

Yosho: Very well. Show me the current extent of your power, Nagi.

(At this, her form is enveloped in a swirl of azure power that wraps her in a white celestial kimono, trimmed in a blood crimson. The Mark of Rage scrawled along her cheek is mirrored on the other side of her face, balancing her appearance. The spikes of her hair soften and flow free in this wind of Jurai, leaving her now a child of the Jurai Royal Family.)

(A deep regal blade of violet extends from the crest of her Key, and Yosho nods, thinking to himself.)

Yosho: Her power is fierce and unrestrained.

(He looks closely at the blade, noting the katana's blade shaking minutely to retain its shape. Also, he notes the concentration glaring in the deep red eyes of Nagi. To her, he comments.)

Yosho: I have heard you learned some about projection.

(Nagi lets the ocean of blue winds fade from her, as well as the violet blade. She opens her hand, palm up, and an orb of emerald light appears over her hand and the Key. Just as with the blade, the great master notes his pupil's concentration and the instability of her construct.)

(He nods and motions to Tenchi. With this, a wave of light passes over the young prince, exchanging his clothes with the white gi and hakama armor of the Light Hawk. Upon Tenchi's forehead, three diamonds shine brightly. Answering this symbol, an emerald diamond appears on Nagi's forehead, with a crimson disc burning atop it.)

(The orb vanishes from Nagi's hand as Yosho turns to her and continues.)

Yosho: Since your power has been awakened, the next matter is to learn to control and maintain it. First, maintaining your blade while in long combat.

(Tenchi's Key extends a blue blade, and Nagi steps back, her violet blade appearing. Drops of sweat roll down her brow as she nods to Tenchi.)

Nagi: Come, Masaki.

(The prince glances to his grandfather who sagely nods in return. At this, Tenchi grips the sword Key with both hands and slides forward to swipe at his opponent. Nagi raises her blade to make contact with his, the two Juraian blades sparking azure and violet filaments of light as they grind along one another.)

(Nagi steps aside, letting Tenchi step forward into her place while the two resume their dance of death. Yosho watches the two as the training of Light begins between his successor and his new pupil. Nagi's blade fluctuates in minor distortions with each hit of Tenchiken's solid edge, and the difficulty of maintaining this purple weapon is evident on its wielder's brow. Tenchi's eyes soften seeing this, but he continues his struggle with her.)

(The master observes, focusing on Nagi, though also keeping a careful eye on his grandson's concessions. Commenting, he considers this.)

Yosho: Her power hasn't been awakened long, and she hasn't taken the time to become comfortable with it.

(Watching the two spar, the great man remembers his own youth, sparring with his then-friend, Kagato Jurai. Much of the same patterns that Nagi follows in her power and strikes mirror the late villain, which furrows Yosho's brow.)

Yosho: And, I hope her patience grows with her skill...

Scene 12

(Throughout the galaxy, various peoples from untold worlds return home from their myriad of occupations, hearing distantly the evening news broadcast on the translucent screens of their home entertainment systems. Some are still engrossed in their work, but soon peer up from their important endeavors to hear what the news anchor on the GNN news has to say this evening.)

Announcer: Again, this is breaking news from Jurai. Jurai Ayeka, taken into custody last month for suspicion of murder, has been released today.

(On Jurai, Ayeka, Ramia, and Sagami sit around a table discussing their coming plans, the announcement in the background.)

Announcer: Due to newly released evidence, Lady Ayeka was found to be another probable victim of the assailant that took three young lives. The Juraian Investigation Bureau states that this is a horrible misunderstanding from the facts that were at hand, and will continue to follow the case to find the true killer.

(Worn and weary, Tenchi and Nagi step into the Masaki home with Yosho close behind, greeted by Ryoko and Sasami. Ryoko and Nagi exchange a short glare before the elder displays her open affection to her husband in hugs and kisses. He grins wryly before kissing her in return. Sasami smiles warmly to Nagi, leading her off toward the den, though the huntress's eyes follow her half-sister and her lover in silence.)

Announcer: Also concerning Jurai, new evidence has been released by the Galaxy Police investigation on Ryua into the assassination of Father Ryua Murakami. The GP has been very tight-lipped regarding the evidence in this case, but sources say that they are nearing a suspect in last month's slaying.

(Yosho's eyes settle on his grandson, a worry deep set into his gaze.)

Announcer: Specifically, the new high priest of the Tokimian faith, Father Ryua's son Shinya, will be giving his deposition to the GP investigator today. Citing signs of a struggle and a bladed weapon, his testimony is said to hold one of the keys to naming the killer.

(In her laboratory, Washu keeps one display open to the news as she continues scanning through different graphs and pages of text, all relating to the Terran explosion at the Science Academy construction site.)

Announcer: Also, news from Earth, where an explosive devastated the construction site of the planet's first branch of the Universal Science Academy. A young graduate student, one Nerti Ro Pii, has been taken into custody for questioning regarding the blast last month.

(Amongst various GP officers, Pii stays close at his wife's side, her eyes closed as she is lead through the corridors of a complex riddled with GP insignia.)

Announcer: Mrs Pii is a student of the SA, studying energy kinematics, and is married to the bounty hunter Edward William Pii. Since the investigation is still on-going, the Galaxy Police have decided not to release details regarding the detainment of Mrs Pii, save that she is under medical supervision. She is currently, six months pregnant with her first-born.

(This broadcast sounds out to those across the galaxy at the end of this working session, or in their current break between shifts. In most cases, a sigh of relief is released as one chapter ends, and another opens.)