From: "Jason Boaz" Subject: Chapter 8: Exploring the Reverse World! Tenchi Encounters Kain! Date: Monday, July 15, 2002 5:23 PM In order to save Tenchi, Sasami used the Necrophone to contact the spirit of Achika's spirit. After learning of Tenchi's plight, Achika went into space, and saved Tenchi. Despite the risk, she knew she had to take her son to the subspace sector where the A-1 Class Criminal, Kain resided, because there was air to breathe, in that area. Now, she begins to wake Tenchi up. Achika: (talks calmly) Wake up, Tenchi. It's time for you to get up. Tenchi was, at this point, dreaming about his mother, and was remembering the good times they shared. He talked a little in his sleep. Achika: (in Tenchi's dream, singing) Sleep, sleep, sleep, Tenchi...close your eyes and sleep, my baby... Tenchi: Mother.... Tenchi: (as a young kid, in his dream) WOW! Thanks mom. We should go to the beach, more often. Achika: (smiles in his dream) We'll see. You're a good little boy, Tenchi. Tenchi: I love you. You're the best mom in the universe. He then heard Achika's voice, and started to stir. Achika: (thinks to herself) That's so sweet of him. Even after all this time, he still considers me the best mom in the universe. (smiles, and talks to Tenchi) Thank you, son. I'm honored. Open your eyes now, okay? Tenchi: (eyes begin to open) Okay.... When he opened his eyes, he couldn't believe his mother was there. In fact, he thought he was dead. Tenchi: (sees Achika, and is slightly shocked) M...mother? Is that really you? Achika: (smiles) Yes, sweetie. It is. Tenchi: (begins to get up) Am I dead? Is this...Heaven? Achika: (giggles) No, silly. You're very much alive. As for where we are, this is subspace. Tenchi: Subspace? But how? And...how did you get here? I haven't seen you for such a long time. Achika: Your friend, Sasami, told me everything. I know about what Kagato did. And, I'm ready to help you set things right. Tenchi began to understand what was going on. Tenchi: Kagato...I remember now...I was on RyuOh...when all of a sudden, the Souja destroyed it. I was knocked unconscious, and...that's all I can remember. The shield must've activated...it saved me from being asphyxiated in space long enough for you to save me, didn't it? Achika: Mmm hmm. That's right. Tenchi: Did Washuu have something to do with my rescue? Achika: Yes. Sasami used Washuu's newest invention, the necrophone, to contact me. That's how I was able to find you. Tenchi: I'm glad you're here. (sees his right shoulder is a bit bloody, and notices a piece of the two scarves attached to his suit is missing) Ow! That hurts! Achika: I'll have to treat your wound. I don't think it's as bad as it looks. Achika tore a piece of her yukata off, and made it into a tourniquet. Then, she cleansed the wound with some water she found in a nearby area. Even though she was now a spirit, Achika was able to dress Tenchi's wound without any hassle. As she dressed Tenchi's wound, both were unaware of the danger that was about to befall them...for the moment. Kain was drawing near. Kain: (to himself) Yes. As I suspected, they have Juraian blood in them. Those two have made a fatal mistake by coming here. Soon, I will destroy them both. (smiles evilly) Meanwhile, back on the Souja, Kiyone, Mihoshi, Ayeka and Nagi were now in the Reverse World. They shortly heard Kagato's voice on a PA system. He made a force field around himself to temporarily keep Ryoko and Hotsuma out. Yugi and Sakuya were still fighting Tetta and Tessei, however. Nagi: So...this is the Reverse World. Ayeka: Now, then...where do we go? Ryoko: Hey, COME ON! (pounds on the force field) We gotta fight, remember?! Kagato: Patience, Ryoko. We will resume our battle soon enough. (turns on a Public Address System) Welcome to the Reverse World, ladies. Ayeka: (hears Kagato's voice) Wha? Kagato: You four are the first living beings who have ever entered this place. There are seven chambers in all, and Kiyoko is within the final chamber. If you manage to make it to chamber seven, she will be freed. But I warn you...this will not be an easy task. There are traps in every chamber, each of them unique, and challenging. You'll have to do your best to survive all seven areas. That is the ONLY WAY Kiyoko can be freed from her imprisonment. Good luck...you need it. Kiyone: So...shall we begin? Mihoshi: Yeah. We'll have to. If we're going to save Kiyoko, we have to take our chances. Let's go. And so, the four allies began their perilous trek through the Reverse World. As they walked into the first chamber, Ayeka asked Nagi about that rogue cabbit she was talking about, earlier. Ayeka: Nagi...can I ask you a question? Nagi: Sure. Fire away, Princess. Ayeka: The way you spoke of that rogue cabbit, earlier...it tells me something. Nagi: Oh? And that is? Ayeka: Well...judging by the tone in your voice, I'd almost say you knew him. Am I right? Nagi: As a matter of fact, I do, Ayeka. That cabbit is known as YuOhki. He's KenOhki's unscrupulous cousin. He's always been jealous of KenOhki, and the fact that my cabbit has everything he doesn't. For example, KenOhki has a caring owner, and a girlfriend, but YuOhki has neither. You get the point? Ayeka: Yes. I believe I do. Why did he take RyoOhki to the moon with him? Nagi: Because, he'd do anything to hurt KenOhki, physically, or emotionally. When YuOhki saw Sasami get angry with RyoOhki for something she didn't do, he used this opportunity to take advantage of that, and the fact KenOhki and I were apparently on another planet. He didn't account for us being on Earth at the time. At KenOhki's urging, I sent him on a covert operation, where he watched the whole thing go down...right down to where RyoOhki clocked that weasel. As I stated before, I put a camera on his collar so I could see everything. Ayeka: Amazing. What happened next? Nagi: Well...a few moments after he disappeared, YuOhki reappeared to find an extremely angry KenOhki. I was there as well...in a rather unusual spacesuit. Ayeka: You were at Washuu's? Nagi: Yes. I even stowed away in the shuttle you were in. And, even though it was a tight fit...I managed to make it without you guys discovering my hiding place. But that's not important. Anyway, KenOhki was so angry with YuOhki, that he began to fight him. Needless to say, KenOhki won. Now, his cousin knows better than to overstep his boundaries...at least I HOPE he does. Ayeka: That's good. (sees they're in the first chamber) We're here. Ayeka noticed they were in the first chamber. Mihoshi had noticed something odd about the walls. They were starting to close in on them. Mihoshi: Uuuh...guys? I think the walls are closing in on us! Kiyone: (sees them close in, too) She's right! MOVE!! Ayeka: RUN FOR IT!! With great haste, Kiyone and the others went across the room. The passage was starting to drop down, and this made them more determined than ever to make it. Kiyone was the first to go into the next room. She was followed by Ayeka, and Nagi. By the time they were able to make it, the walls were even closer, and the passage had nearly closed. Kiyone told Mihoshi to slide. Kiyone: MIHOSHI! There's no more time to waste! SLIDE!! Mihoshi: RIGHT! (slides into the next area, just as the passage closes, and the walls smash together) With a furious slide, Mihoshi had made it with time to spare. She was able to make it just as the walls completely closed in, and the passageway had been completely sealed. They had passed the first chamber with no problems. It was time to advance. Ayeka: Whew. We made it. Mihoshi: I hope that the other areas aren't as bad. Kiyone: Same, here. Let's get going. Meanwhile, back in subspace, Achika had completed dressing Tenchi's wound. She was now ready to tell Tenchi about their current location. Achika: There. That should do it. How does it feel, Tenchi? Tenchi: It doesn't feel as bad as it used to. Thanks. Achika: You're welcome, Tenchi. (smiles) I bet you're wondering about which sector in subspace we're currently in, aren't you?. Tenchi: The thought crossed my mind. Achika: This is the area which held a powerful enemy. The A-1 Class Criminal known as Kain. Tenchi: Kain? Who's that? Achika: Kain is a being...who hates the house of Jurai. He came to Earth, 27 years ago, when I was in High School. He wanted to kill me, since he knew I was part Juraian. Tenchi: Say WHAT?! You're part Juraian? Achika: Yes, Tenchi. I am. He sensed the immense power I had inside of me. Ever since I was young, my father told me that I'd have to defend the planet, and the future of the Masaki clan. I knew that the time had arrived. With a great amount of effort, Kain was dragged back into this area, but he didn't go alone. Before he was imprisoned again, he managed to drag me and Noboyuki in with him. Tenchi: WHAT?! That's horrible! What happened? Achika: That fiend started to hurt Noboyuki! I couldn't take it anymore. I exploded with power, and transformed into a form with which I was able to use my Jurai powers...you should've seen it, Tenchi. Anyhow, I was able to take out Kain...with a little help, of course. Tenchi: Amazing! Who helped you? Achika: I can't give too much away, but, I will tell you this. By now, I remember everything that happened, 27 years ago. Tenchi: Whoa! That's crazy. Can you tell me a little bit more? Just one more bit? Achika: Alright, Tenchi. I'll tell you this much about it. You have some pretty amazing friends. Tenchi: My friends? Was everyone there? Did I go with them? Achika: Yes. They were there. And you were, too. (smiles) Tenchi: Then...does that mean...I'll see you...as a teenager? Will I be able to see how you and dad got together? Achika: Yes. You will...soon. In fact, you'll learn about how we got together...exactly a week from now. Tenchi: If it's going to happen exactly a week from now...does that mean.... Achika interrupted Tenchi with good reason. By now, Kain was close to their proximity. His coming was marked by a bad headache which Achika had suddenly felt. Achika: Uhhhnnnn....My head...it hurts so badly....(holds her head in pain and thinks to herself) If my head's hurting THIS badly...that means...NO! He's found us! Tenchi: What's going on? Mother? Are you ok? Achika: (looks at Tenchi, and sees Kain) Watch out! HE'S HERE! Tenchi: WHAT?! (sees Kain) Kain: (laughs sinisterly) Now, you are MINE!! Back in the Souja, Ryoko and Hotsuma were facing Kagato once more. Tetta was still duking it out with Yugi, while Tessei fought Sakuya. Both were evenly matched. Tetta: (dodges a blow from Yugi) I must admit, your skills are sharp! (swings his staff at Yugi) You're very quick! Yugi: (parries the blow with her sword) Thanks. I try to do my...(blasts him) BEST!! Tetta: (is knocked over) OOOHHH!! Sakuya: (barely dodges a Jurai Needle attack, but her sleeve gets ripped, and her arm bleeds a bit) Whoa! So...that's the Jurai Needle! I never saw it before. Tessei mistakenly thought Sakuya's origins were the same as Yugi's. He was sadly mistaken. He learned about the truth...the HARD WAY. Tetta: Not surprising, Daughter of Kamadake. In case you don't already know, this skill wasn't available at YOUR time. Sakuya: WRONG! (slashes him in the arm) I was originally created during the Spring of last year! You don't know the first thing about me... Tessei: (holds his arm) Uunnngghhh.... Sakuya: But you're beginning to learn. For one thing, I shall not tolerate injustice! Also, I'll do anything to protect my friends...AND my sister. I'll fight you to the end...with honor. Just then, a light flashed on a computer console. This made Kagato call a break in the fighting. Kagato: (sees a computer console flash) I see...(deenergizes his sword) Alright, everyone...time for a break. Ryoko, Hotsuma, Yugi & Sakuya: SAY WHAT?? Kagato: Your friends have already cleared the first level. That's very impressive. Now, allow yourselves to relax a little while, as we watch their progress in area two. Ryoko: You never gave me time to relax, before, Kagato. Why now? Kagato: Because, I'm feeling rather generous, today. (turns on the PA System, and speaks in it) I see you've made it through the first chamber without any difficulty. I must admit, you're doing rather well. Now, it's time for the first of three mental challenges. In the Reverse World, Ayeka wondered what these three mental challenges were. Ayeka: Mental Challenges? What are they like? Kagato: These challenges will put your wits and combat skills to the ultimate test. For each of the challenges, the computer will scan your mind for the necessary information, and then solidified holograms will be made for two of the challenges. The first is "face your enemy." Here, you must fight those who you consider to be arch rivals, sworn foes, or...(shrugs) anything else in between. If you make it past here, and chamber three, you'll know more about the second challenge. Oh yes...one more thing...the rivals that will be chosen shall have the personalities of their real selves. Enjoy. As Kagato ended his exposition, he turned a monitor on. He told the members of the Tenchi Family who were on the surface about why he was so generous. Hotsuma: So...why exactly are you giving us a break? Kagato: Because...I want to see you at your best. Once in a while, you need to relax, and limber up your muscles. That way, you can fight without tiring yourselves out. Besides...you people are always in such a rush to do things, that you fail to notice the beauty of your surroundings. (points out a window) Just look out there. What do you see? Yugi: All I see is space. Nothing but lonely...cold...dark...empty space. Kagato: That's where you're wrong, Yugi. Space is beautiful. Its majestic beauty surpasses anything I've seen on other planets. Just look out there...(points to a planet) What do you see? Ryoko: That's Mars...it looks so beautiful from here. Yugi: (realizes how beautiful space truly is) He's right...I've been alone, for so long...I felt I didn't need the stars, or outer space. Maybe...I was wrong. Sakuya: It sure is pretty. I can see Earth from here...(sees Venus) And there's Venus! OH! I can barely see Jupiter! Hotsuma: Stargazing was one of Kiyoko's favorite things to do. Whenever we were off duty, she would lie on the ground and gaze at the stars for hours. I guess...we have a lot to learn from the stars. Kagato: Exactly. (looks at the monitor, and motions to it) Now, it's time. The first mental challenge begins. Now, if you turn your attention to the monitor, we can enjoy the show. As they turned their attention to the monitor, the computer began scanning the minds of the four ladies who were in the Reverse World. It compiled the appropriate data, and created images of their arch rivals. Images which looked, felt and acted real. Computer: Scanning...Subjects; Princess Ayeka Masaki Jurai....Detective First Class...Kiyone Makibi...First Class Detective...Mihoshi Kuramitsu...and...Bounty Hunter...Nagi. Ayeka: What's going on? Nagi: I guess it's gathering data, so it can create an appropriate foe for each of us. Computer: Scanning complete. Creating solidified images. Ayeka will face Matori. (Matori appears) For Kiyone...Special Investigations Officer...Mitsuki. (Mitsuki2 appears) Kiyone: (gets really steamed) Say WHAT?!?! Computer: Opponent Selected for Mihoshi...Tsugaru. And for Nagi...Space Pirate...Ryoko. (Tsugaru and Ryoko2 appear) Kiyone: Why does Mihoshi get Tsugaru, when I get HER?!?!?! (points at Mitsuki2) Mitsuki's image proved to be as frustrating as the real thing. Mitsuki2: Now, now, now, Kiyone. We can't always have what we want, now can we? After all...your luck isn't always as good as it should be, is it? (laughs haughtily) Kiyone: GGRRRRR....SHUT UP!! (shakes her fist) Mihoshi: Oh, my! She's just as annoying to Kiyone as the real Mitsuki. I'm impressed. (remembers Tsugaru's there) Whoops...forgot you were here. Tsugaru: That's alright. I plan on giving you a good time. Maybe I shouldn't be as rough on you, as I was last time. Mihoshi: You mean it? Tsugaru: Not really. (fires a blast at Mihoshi) Right before the Tenchi Family stormed into the Souja, Mihoshi had, at Kiyone's suggestion, put on her combat armor. Because of the protective layers of body armor, the blow wasn't as bad as it was when she got blasted by the real Tsugaru. Mihoshi: It's too fast! (gets hit, and is knocked over) Umph! Tsugaru: Giving up, already? I thought you'd be more fun. (sees Mihoshi get up) WHAT THE HECK?! How can this be? You were barely standing, when you took that blast for your partner, around the last time we fought! HOW is this POSSIBLE?! Mihoshi: Your blasts won't work, now, Tsugaru! This time...I came prepared!! Like the body armor? Tsugaru: Yes. Hmmm...(thinks a little) Maybe I underestimated you, after all. Matori began shooting energy blasts at Ayeka, and also began shooting off her mouth, as well. Matori: (shoots at Ayeka) What's wrong, Princess? Still mad at me for kidnapping your sister?! It's unhealthy to carry such grudges! Ayeka: (dodges) You only won last time, because you cheated, Matori! This time, however, you will feel the full power of Jurai! (begins to glow, as she powers up, and sends a blast of her own at Matori) Matori: (is knocked into a wall) AAGHHH! (falls, but gets back up) You're not gonna get away with this! I told Mistress Yugi she should've destroyed you, while she had the chance! Ayeka: Well, you should crawl out from under your rock, Matori. Because, Yugi is now one of us! Matori: HA! Puhlease! You've GOT to be KIDDING ME! Ayeka: (to herself) I get it...these images of our old foes only remember every event up to their deaths...that applies for Matori and Tsugaru, at least. But...Mitsuki and Ryoko's doubles just might have all the knowledge their real selves possess. That means, the double of that barbaric Amazon just might be on OUR side. Ryoko2 energized her sword, and allowed Nagi to have the first strike. When Nagi asked why, the double of her rival reminded her of the mission. Ryoko2: (energizes her sword) Well, we don't have all day, Nagi. Wanna go first? Nagi: Sure. But why? I mean...what's the rush? Ryoko2: (gets serious) You know why, Nagi. You and the others must get past this room, so you can go further. Once you're all far enough, you can rescue Kiyoko. And, in case you've forgotten, once Kagato's finished, she'll be able to rest in peace. (lowers her head) Nagi: (smiles) I understand. I'll hold back a bit, then. (unsheathes her sword) I promise I'll be gentle. After all...we'll need all the help we can get. Ryoko2: Thanks. Now, shall we get started? Nagi: Let's. One more thing...my promise not to take you in still stands. And so, Ryoko2 and Nagi began to fight, each one deliberately holding back their full might. Back at the surface, Yugi pretty much wanted to set Matori and Tsugaru straight...so she asked Kagato if she could speak to them. He said yes. Yugi: MAN! The doubles of Tsugaru and Matori are as powerful, and as fast as their real selves were. Sakuya: If they're just like the real Tsugaru and Matori, doesn't that mean they'll cheat? Yugi: (gasps) You're right! They WILL try to cheat...unless I order them not to! (looks at Kagato) Kagato? Kagato: Yes? Yugi: I wish to speak to Tsugaru and Matori. Can I have permission to do so? Kagato: Of course you can. I'll even turn on the holographic screen in the chamber for you. (turns it on) Yugi: Thanks. Ryoko: Huh? Why do you want to do such a thing? Yugi: Because...all of you are my friends, now. If Matori and Tsugaru dare to use Komabitous in the chamber...the others might have no chance to rescue your friend. Ryoko: Right. Sure enough, back in the Reverse World, Tsugaru and Matori were about to summon some Komabitous (guardian spirits) when Yugi stopped them. It took Yugi's two cronies a little time to recognize her. Yugi: (appears on screen) Tsugaru, Matori, STOP! That's enough! Tsguaru: Wha? Who do you think you are, telling us to stop?! Matori: Only Yugi is able to tell us such things. We only follow HER orders! (Wait a sec...she does kind of look like her...what if...UH OH....) Yugi: Matori...remember the LAST TIME you questioned me?! I blasted you into oblivion, because of your insubordination. If you two take a good look at me, for a minute, you'll realize that I AM YOUR MASTER!! Matori and Tsugaru were shocked. They couldn't believe how much Yugi had changed in appearance. They even saw Sakuya, and were shocked even more. Matori: (CRIPES! It really IS HER!!) Mistress Yugi...it's really you! But...you've changed...I barely recognize you. Yugi: Aw, come on, Matori. I shouldn't be THAT HARD to recognize. After all, I am 11 years older, now. Matori: (sees Sakuya) And...what is SHE doing here? Why is she dressed like you?! What's going on?! Sakuya: If you two can just calm down, for a second, my sister will explain everything. Tsugaru: SISTER? Yugi, since when do you consider Sakuya your sister?? Yugi: Since I've changed, for the better. Those you're fighting, are my friends, now. Listen to me, both of you. The war is over. I no longer want to create my own world. That was wrong. Matori: You HAVE changed! Tsugaru: Yes...you're no longer the way we remember you. Why? Yugi: That's not important, right now. What matters, is this. I want you and Matori to fight Mihoshi and Ayeka without calling upon the Komabitous. In other words, fight fair, ok? This is my final order as your master. Tsugaru, obedient as always, had chose to obey Yugi, since he felt it was a pleasure working for her. Matori, however, objected to the order...that is, until Yugi threathened to kill her a second time. Tsugaru: Alright. I guess I will...for old time's sake. It's been a pleasure working for you, Yugi. Yugi: Thanks, Tsugaru. (smiles) Matori: (sulks) Hmph. Give me ONE GOOD REASON why I SHOULD fight fair! Yugi: (scowls) Because if you don't...I'll come over there, and kill you for a second time! IS THAT CLEAR?! Matori was scared. Remembering that Yugi's the type who doesn't make empty threats, she conceded. Matori: (is terrified) Crystal clear, Yugi! (looks down) I will do as you say. (YIPE! I guess no matter how much someone changes, a part of them stays the same.) Yugi: That's more like it. (smiles) Ayeka smiled, and thanked Yugi for her help. It was at that same moment Nagi fired a blast powerful enough to knock Ryoko2 down, but not out. Ayeka: (smiles) Thanks, Yugi. You're a good friend. Yugi: No problem, Ayeka. (winks, as the screen fades) Ryoko2: (is knocked down) UMPH! (gets on her knees) Well, I gotta admit it. You beat me...this time. Nagi: (holds out her hand) Thanks. I knew you'd see things my way. Ryoko2: (takes Nagi's hand, and is helped up) You'd better be more careful, next time. I mean, I could be helping YOU up, when we fight again. (looks at everyone else) Now...who shall we assist? Nagi: I'll help Mihoshi, and you help Ayeka. Got it? Ryoko2: Got it! What about Kiyone? Should we help her? Nagi: Nah. She's got everything under control. (smirks) Trust me. Sure enough, Kiyone didn't need any help. All Mitsuki2 did, for the most part, was verbally assault Kiyone by telling her how superior she was. Her endless chatter ended, however, when Kiyone clipped her in the jaw. While she did that, the tide of battle was going in Ayeka and Mihoshi's favor. Mitsuki2: Honestly, Kiyone, I don't know why you've been lucky for this long. You're nothing compared to me and my academy buddies. I'm a Special Investigations Officer, you know. That means I'm your superior. You might be able to achieve my rank, in maybe...100 years? (laughs haughtily) Kiyone: I thought I told you to SHUT UP! (punches Mitsuki2 in the jaw, and knocks her out) Mitsuki2: OOF! (is KO'd) Uuuuhhhnnnn.... Kiyone: I've ALWAYS wanted to do that. She talks WAY too much. (cracks her knuckles, and smiles victoriously) Nagi: (glances at Ryoko2) See what I mean? Ryoko2: Yeah. Let's go! Nagi: Right. Because of Yugi's orders, Matori and Tsugaru were going easy on Ayeka and Mihoshi. In fact...Ayeka and Mihoshi were beating the living daylights out of them. Both Matori and Tsugaru were one blow away from being knocked out. Tsugaru: (is running ragged) Alright...you've won. Now, could somebody please punch my lights out? I need to rest a bit. Nagi: Happy to oblige. (punches Tsugaru in the face) Tsugaru: OOMPH! (is KO'd) Oooohhh.... Matori: (is punched two more times) Uunngghhh...(pants) Alright...you beat me. Consider yourself lucky you have Yugi as an ally, now. Go on...finish it! Ryoko2: Allow me to give this creep a goodbye kick, okay, Ayeka? After all...you've finally got even with this witch. Ayeka: Fine with me. Ryoko2: Thanks. (kicks Matori, and knocks her into another wall) Say good night, Matori! Matori: OOPH! (falls down) Good...night...uunnnggghhh....(loses consciousness) Ayeka: Thanks, Ryoko. For once...your brute strength came in handy. Ryoko2: No problemo, Princess. After all...that's one of the reasons why Tenchi loves me...my brute strength. Ryoko2 turned out to be just like the real Ryoko. So much like her, in fact...she was able to get under Ayeka's skin just as easily. Ayeka: Say, WHAT?!?! Ryoko2: You heard me. I'm sure, that if Tenchi does make it here, alive...the first thing he'll do is admire me for my strength and beauty. Ayeka: Get serious! Tenchi loves ME, because I'm gentle and I'm refined, like you'll NEVER BE!! Ryoko2 AND the real Ryoko both took Ayeka's choice of words as a challenge. In fact, both of them knew Ayeka challenged them to a Karaoke Duel. Ryoko2: (HEY! the phrase, "Because I'm gentle and I'm refined, like you'll never be" is part of the lyrics of Up-Walk in the Galaxy! OF COURSE! It's Karaoke time in the Masaki household, again. This time...I WILL win...or rather, the real me will.) Wait a sec...that's a line from our favorite Karaoke Song...Up-walk in the Galaxy! Ryoko: (comes on screen) If you're saying that, then that means you're challenging ME to a Karaoke Duel, huh, Princess Smarty Pants? Ayeka: (speaks to both Ryokos) That's right, you good for nothing dirt-for-brains. I hereby Challenge YOU to a Karaoke Duel! Winner gets a date with Tenchi! Sakuya, who's still crazy about Tenchi, wanted to take part in the duel, too. Sakuya: OH, OH!! I wanna sing, too! Can I be a part of this duel? Ryoko2: (sighs, and shrugs) Alright. After all, you are a part of our family, now, Sakuya. It's only fair to let you join in on the fun. Sakuya: ALRIGHT!! It wasn't too long, before the rest of the girls wanted to sing, as well. Most of them wanted to sing for entertainment reasons...Nagi just wanted to win a new wager with Ryoko. Kiyone: We haven't done Karaoke in a while. I want to sing, too. After all, we have to have fun, every now and then. Yugi: Is this Karaoke Duel a Tenchi Family Tradition? Ayeka: (smiles) Yes. It is. I officially expand it to a Karaoke Duel and Entertainment Exhibition. Mihoshi: ALRIGHT! Karaoke time, at the Masaki Household's coming soon! I CAN'T WAIT! Nagi: I bet Ryoko 2500 Yen that I can out-sing her. Ryoko2: Fine...you're officially part of the duel, as well. It all goes down, in one week, okay? Nagi: (smirks) I'll be there. Ryoko: Good. I'll beat you...errr...that is...see you sing in 1 week! Later. (screen in the Reverse World turns off) Ayeka then asked Ryoko2 if she could join them, but she turned her down, for good reasons. Ayeka: Ryoko, would you help us out, the rest of the way? Ryoko2: (sighs and lowers her head) As much as I want to...I can't. Ayeka: But why? Ryoko2: Because...I'm bound to this particular area. We solidifed images can't go beyond the place we originated. Besides...you'll have much more fun without two of me. Ayeka: You're absolutely right, Ryoko. (shakes her hands) Thanks for the help. I appreciate it. Ryoko2: Don't mention it, you spoiled brat. Nagi: Come on...we've made it this far. Let's go all the way. Kiyone: Right. Mihoshi: Let's go. And so, having concluded their battle in the second chamber, Ayeka, Kiyone, Mihoshi and Nagi make their advance to the third chamber. When they were done, Kagato proclaimed that the battles the other girls and Hotsuma were fighting shall resume. Kagato: Alright. Now, did all of you get well rested? Yugi: Yeah. I feel ready for another bout with Tetta. Sakuya: I feel like I can take on TEN TESSEIS! Kagato: In that case, let's continue. We'll take a second break when they reach the fourth chamber, and a final one when they're at chamber six. If they make it through to chamber seven, and free my captive...then, I will allow Kiyoko see the battle draw to its conclusion. (looks at them all and thinks to himself) Hmmm...they're not the least bit worried. They act as though they'll all make it, without any difficulties. It must be because of their family bond. Yes. As for you, Yugi...I know for a fact you were bluffing...well, two can play the same game, Yugi. Also, back when you were evil, around the time your manipulations drove the Tenchi Family apart, I counted on the family bond they have to draw them back together like a magnet. I was right. Ryoko: Let's go for it, Hotsuma. Hotsuma: Right, Ryoko. We'll do this for her! Ryoko: Yugi...you weren't REALLY going to go to the Reverse World, just to kill Matori, were you? Yugi just smiled, and admitted she was bluffing. She also admitted she still had her old mean streak. Yugi: Nah. I was only bluffing. Besides...Sakuya and I have our own battles to fight, right here. (looks at Tetta) Tetta: Alright, girlie...come to papa. (twirls his staff, and stamps it into the ground, as if he was using the Jurai Needle) Yugi: (glares at Tetta) You're not my father. (turns and talks to Ryoko, and smirks a bit) But, I must admit...I still got it. Ryoko: Got what? Yugi: My mean streak. (giggles) Ryoko: (falls over) Oh, brother.... Back in subspace, Kain had cornered Achika and Tenchi. Tenchi thought Kain should be dead, but Achika proved him wrong. Tenchi: AAAHHH! Mom, I thought you said Kain was DEAD!! Achika: It's a paradox! Here, in our time, he's been held in this place, for nearly a century, now. But, when he escapes and travels to Tokyo, in the year 1970, he will die. Kain then asked Achika about how she knew him so well. As she answered the interstellar fiend, Kain recognized the look of determination her eyes. Kain: (has a confused look on his face) Who are you? How is it possible for you to know of me so well? Judging by the way you speak of me, it's as if we met before! But, that's impossible! Achika: Actually, it isn't, Kain. First off, my name is Achika. As for the other part of your question, yes, we have met...but to me, it's the past. And for you...it's the future. (glares at Kain with a look of determination) Kain: (to himself) Those eyes...that look...I've seen it a million times in my nightmares. (remembers the face of the girl, in his nightmares, and is in shock) NO! It CAN'T BE! Could this be the girl I've seen in my dreams? Is she the one who can destroy me? I MUST find out! Kain advanced toward Achika, and swiped at her, only to see his hand pass through her. Kain: Well, if you are indeed who I think you are, then I must kill you NOW!! (swipes at Achika, and sees his hand pass through her in disbelief) WHAT?! How can this be?? Why didn't I HURT YOU?! Achika: (smiles defiantly) Because, I'm already dead. You can't kill a spirit. Kain: NO!! That means I have NO CHOICE, but to go to Tokyo, Japan, in the year 1970! (laughs) I want to thank you for telling me exactly where and when to find you, when you were alive. Now that I am aware of the exact time, and place to find you in Japan, I will travel to your planet in the middle of nowhere, AND DESTROY YOU! (looks at Tenchi) But first...let's see if he's alive, shall we? Tenchi: NO! As Kain was about to attack Tenchi, Achika took the gems that were on Tenchi's necklace, and had them transform into the sword. Little by little, Kain was more and more convinced that Achika and the girl in his dreams were one and the same. Achika: TENCHI! Give me the gems! Tenchi: (tosses them to Achika) RIGHT! Achika: (grabs the gems, and they transform into the sword) That's as far as you go, Kain! Kain: NO! It's that sword! You have to be that girl! The girl who's face has haunted me in my dreams, for fifty years! Achika: Oh please...don't tell me I'm the girl of your dreams, ok? Kain: HA! Very funny. If you truly are the girl who slashes me, stabs me, amputates my right hand and slices me in half, in my dreams, you will SHOW ME...YOUR FULL POWER!! Achika now realized that Kain was dreaming of his death at her hands, and the hands of the Tenchi Family. Much to his dismay, she held back, but decided to give him a parting slash, making him more and more convinced. Achika: Yes...I just might be the girl who nearly kills you...but I won't use my full power on you, just yet. how about settling for this sneak preview, instead?! (slashes Kain) HYAH! Kain: (groans in pain) UUURRGGGHHHH!! Every time I see an element of my dream come to life, I am more and more convinced that YOU ARE my nemesis! But, why? Why did you hold back? Why won't you use your full power? Achika: Because...it's not yet time for our battle. But, if you dare come to threaten me and Noboyuki, in the year 1970, I promise you...I won't...hold back. Kain became so enraged, he decided to breathe fire on both Tenchi and his mother, but before he could, a flash of light blinded him...and then, he was paralyzed. Kain: Grrr....No! I won't allow your insults to continue! THE JURAI WILL NOT ESCAPE ME!! (is about to ready to breathe fire on his enemies, when he's blinded by a flash of light) NNNNOOOO!! MY EYES! I CAN'T SEE! When I get my hands on you...(is paralyzed) AGGHHHH! I CAN'T MOVE!! Tenchi: Can somebody tell me what just happened? Achika: (sees something, and points to it) I don't know...but I bet they do! Tenchi: (looks at where Achika is pointing) Huh? Tenchi looked in the direction his mother was pointing, and saw a pair of interwoven comets in the sky. Then, two celestial beings came from the comet, and took on human form...they were Isao Kedauchi and Masayo Manuketta. Tenchi: (sees two beings leave the comet) Huh? What's...going on? WHO ARE YOU GUYS? Masayo: Greetings. You must be Tenchi. Ayeka has told me so much about you. Tenchi: Huh? You know Ayeka? How? Who exactly are you? Masayo: My name is Masayo Manuketta, (gestures to Isao) This is the man I love, Isao Kedauchi. Tenchi: Masayo and Isao?? (realizes something) OH YEAH! NOW I know who you are! You're the entities who are part of the Manuketta Comets! Ayeka told me all about how she helped you two get back together! Isao: That would be us. Tenchi: WOW! I never thought I'd actually get to meet you. Thanks for saving me. Isao: Actually, we aren't the ones you should be thanking. Tenchi: Huh? If you're not the ones who I should thank, then who is? Masayo: (points to a beautiful woman with lavender hair and light blue eyes) She is. Tenchi: Huh? (sees the woman) Uhhh...who are you? Masayo pointed toward a woman who was dressed in Juraian attire. She had lavender hair, and light blue eyes. She had a kind expression on her face. This was Empress Hinosei, the long dead Juraian queen who Yugi spoke of. Hinosei: I am Empress Hinosei. It is an honor to finally meet you, Tenchi Masaki, grandson of Yosho. Tenchi: You...know who I am? Hinosei: Yes I do, Tenchi. If you would allow me a moment of your time, I shall tell you how Yugi became the person she is, today. Tenchi: Alright. And so, Empress Hinosei told Tenchi her story. Hinosei: 3500 years ago, I was forced to exile the daughter of one of my most trusted knights, Kamadake. He and Azaka had to battle with some of her creations...but it wasn't her fault. The scientists who experimented on her did this without authorization from me, or my husband. So, they too, were banished. After this battle, Azaka and Kamadake requested that they should be put to rest, in the Sacred Place, until a time when Jurai was once again in crisis. My husband and I agreed, and then I put them to sleep in the Sacred Place, myself. When Yugi decided to go to sleep, last summer, Azaka and her father were able to enter her dreams, and train both her and Sakuya, as they had originally intended to do. You see, Tenchi, Sakuya and Yugi share the same path. It is their destiny to become the newest generation of female Knights in Jurai. Tenchi: Are you telling me that women can be knights in Jurai? Hinosei: (laughs) Of course, young one. It's an age old tradition which dictates that both men and women are eligible to become Knights of Jurai. This tradition has endured for thousands of years. (smiles) Now, the two of you have to go. Your friends need your help, badly. Tenchi: But, what about you, Masayo and Isao? And...how will we get into the Souja? Masayo: Hey, don't worry about us, Tenchi. As soon as you and your mother depart, Isao and I shall return on our endless journey across the universe. Tenchi: That's good. Hinosei: And as for me, I will return to the heavens, where I shall continue to watch over you. (creates a portal to the Chapel) This portal shall take you both to Kagato's Chapel, where the final battle is taking place. By the time you get there, Kiyoko will be rescued. Now, GO!! Tenchi: Right! Achika: We'll do our best. (jumps into the portal) Achika was first to jump into the portal. Before Tenchi went in, he first decided to say goodbye to his three newest friends. As they bade him farewell, Masayo and Isao joined hands, and returned to their celestial forms, rejoined their comets and departed for the farthest reaches of the galaxy. Then, Empress Hinosei disappeared, and returned to her rightful resting place in the heavens. Tenchi: Well, it was nice to meet all of you. Masayo: (joins hands with Isao, and both begin to glow) Thank you, Tenchi. Now, we must go. Say hello to Ayeka for me, ok? Tenchi: I will. Thanks. Isao: (heads for the comet, along with Masayo) Farewell, my friend. And good luck. Tenchi: See you later. (looks at Empress Hinosei) I guess, I'll be going, now. Thanks for the help. Hinosei: You're truly welcome, Tenchi. Goodbye, and good luck. (disappears) Tenchi: Thanks again. (leaps into the portal) As soon as Tenchi leapt into the portal, it closed behind him, leaving behind a very angry Kain, who had just recovered from the attacks of Achika, Masayo, Isao and Empress Hinosei. Kain: (regains his sight and mobility) Uuuuggghhh...those gnats will pay for this! What?? (looks around, and sees nothing) This can't be! They've escaped! (yells out in rage) NNNNNNNNNNNNNNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!! Meanwhile, back in the Reverse World, Ayeka, Kiyone, Mihoshi and Nagi have just made it past the third chamber. There, they had to swing across vines to avoid being melted in molten lava. It was extremely tricky...especially for Mihoshi. Mihoshi: That was too close...I almost thought I was a goner, for sure when that vine snapped. (looks at Kiyone) Fortunately, you saved me. Kiyone: I had to. You're my partner...and my best friend. True, you can be a nuisance, sometimes, but you're also my source of joy...and, you give me the strength I need to take my cares away. Why, the reason I'm able to relax and sing in a Karaoke bar is because of you. You're that special to me. Mihoshi: (cries) You really mean it? Kiyone: Yeah. I couldn't let you die, back there, Mihoshi. You're too important to me. If you ever got killed, my life would be swallowed up by darkness. (smiles, and wipes away Mihoshi's tears) I'll always be there for you, Mihoshi. This I promise. Mihoshi: Thank you. Nagi: Come on. We're at least halfway there. Three rooms down, four to go. Ayeka: Yes. We can't give up, now. We must keep going! We have to do this, for Kiyoko. Kiyone: Right. (helps Mihoshi up) Let's go, partner. Mihoshi: Got it! And so, with renewed dedication, all four allies go forth and venture into chamber four. Just then, back in subspace, Kain felt the time was almost right for him to escape. All he needed now, was to fully identify Achika. Kain: So, my enemies have eluded me. No matter. Now that I know where to strike, I shall use my powers to escape this place and send Galaxy Police Headquarters to oblivion! But first...I must be 100% certain about this...Achika. I am almost convinced that she is the one I have seen before in my dreams. Now that I have looked into her eyes, I can see what she's doing. She has enabled me to witness whatever battle she will fight. Yes...it won't be long now. (laughs evilly) As Kain's evil laughter echoed across subspace, he was more determined than ever to learn of Achika's true powers. Will Kain learn the truth about Achika? Can Ayeka, Mihoshi, Kiyone and Nagi rescue Kiyoko? Will Tenchi and his mother make it to the Souja in time? And, can Ryoko, Hotsuma, Yugi and Sakuya hold out, until they get there? Find out in the next exciting chapter of Kagato's Attack! To Be Continued...