From: "Jason Boaz" Subject: Chapter 9: A Strange Situation! Kiyoko Gets Rescued! Date: Monday, July 15, 2002 5:24 PM Elsewhere, at another corner of the Universe, is a space station situated in a distant galaxy. This place is the Galaxy Police's primary headquarters. Inside, the commander of the Galaxy Police was notified of strange fluctuations in the subspace room. Female Officer: Commander, there are some strange fluctuations in the subspace chamber. GP Commander: WHAT? Is he trying to escape? Female Officer: No, but there seemed to be five additional energy readings there. GP Commander: That doesn't make sense. That place is sealed as tightly as a drum...how can this be possible? Male Officer: Think he might eventually try to escape? The Commander of the Bounty Hunters Section, who was an old friend of the commander, had his suspicions, and felt they should prepare for evacuation. Commander: Yeah. Kain's very powerful. Eventually, he'll escape, and destroy us. We'll have to evacuate the base, and relocate the most vital personnel of the Galaxy Police to the Pluto base. We have no choice. GP Commander: You're right But, Kain hasn't begun to use his powers, yet. We have a little bit of time, before he begins his escape. Mitsuki feared the worst for GP HQ. Especially since some of her friends weren't all key personnel. Mitsuki: But, what about my friends? And what about me? What will happen to us? Commander: No worries. Your friends are either out on assignment, or have already been transferred to Pluto. They'll be alright, Mitsuki. Mitsuki: Good. That's a relief. But, what about the commander, and the others? The commander of the Galaxy Police Headquarters then came to a decision. GP Commander: We're the Galaxy Police. We can't back down just because of an all-powerful entity who might try to destroy us. We have to either keep him contained, or die trying. My personnel and I shall stay here. Mitsuki: But, commander?! Commander: It's okay, Mitsuki. We're the ones who must survive. You and I, the Marshall, the Chiefs and all high-ranking officers of the Galaxy Police must relocate on Pluto, successfully. If we do, this organization will live on. Also, all units that are currently in space will have to relocate, as well. GP Commander: You're right, Hiroshi, my old friend. You people are the heart of the Galaxy Police. if all of you die, this organization will die with you. I will not allow you to perish needlessly. (closes his eyes) Prepare all shuttles for Code Red. Commander Hiroshi: Right. As the old, yet wise Commander Hiroshi prepped up the shuttles, back in the Souja, Hotsuma was fooled by one of Kagato's slyest tricks...the Shadow Technique. Hotsuma: Now then, we're going to end this, once and for all. (ignites his energy sword, and slashes Kagato, who vanishes) HUH?! What in the world? Ryoko: (Aw, nuts! Hotsuma fell for the oldest trick in Kagato's book...the shadow routine! What a dummy!) Hotsuma, YOU IDIOT! That wasn't really Kagato! He's right behind you! Hotsuma: (sees Kagato behind him) WHA?! (is grabbed, and thrown across the room, landing at Yugi's feet) Uuuuhhh...Hi, Yugi. Sorry if I dropped in on you, like this. Yugi: It's okay. I have a battle to continue. Kagato: My my, Hotsuma. You certainly fell for that easily, didn't you? You attacked my shadow, instead of me. (sees the screen on the console flash again) Ah. Looks like they've made it to chamber four. TIME OUT! Tessei: But Sakuya and I were... Kagato: That's enough, Tessei. After chamber six, there will be no more breaks. (Or, I might change my mind, and allow them to see the fight in the seventh chamber. We'll see.) But first, we have to watch this. In the reverse world, Ayeka, Mihoshi, Kiyone and Nagi noticed four full-length mirrors. As Ayeka wondered what they were for, Kagato answered the question, right away. Ayeka: Look at these mirrors. I wonder, why did Kagato put these here? Kagato: (on PA system) Because, they're part of your next challenge. You four have done exceedingly well, so far. You've made it to the fourth challenge, which is where you "Face Yourself." Kiyone: What...are we going to fight amongst ourselves? Kagato: Exactly. Here, the computer will scan you to identify your deepest, darkest desires. Then, all you need to do is look in a mirror, and each of you will fight a different version of yourself. These versions will come from either the depths of your subconscious, or any sexual desires you may bear. If you beat your double, you can advance to the next chamber. Good luck. Once more, the computer scanner their minds, and compiled the information. This time, it went faster than it did before. Computer: Scanning...subjects Princess Ayeka, Kiyone, Mihoshi and Nagi. (whirrs) Scan complete. Kiyone: Now, what? Ayeka: I guess we look into the mirrors. Nagi: Alright. Let's be careful. Mihoshi: Alrightie. As all four looked into the mirrors, images of themselves come out. The first one was Ayeka, who is dressed in a shortened sleeveless yukata, which was opened to reveal a black leather bra. This version of Ayeka wore a black leather choker on her neck. Her outfit also had a leather skirt which had a red sash on it. She wore arm-length fingerless gloves, and held a whip. She also wore long black leather boots, which had sandals on them..these boots had straps attached to them, which was a part of some sort of lingerie. This was the SM Queen counterpart of Ayeka...who was dressed in a mix of leather outfits made for Earth women, and a Juraian outfit which is the traditional garb for bridegroom training. This outfit shocked Ayeka, Yugi and Sakuya. Ryoko, however was overjoyed to see this side of Ayeka. SM Queen Ayeka: (comes out of the mirror) Well, if this isn't a perfect time to show everyone this side of me, then I don't know what is. Ayeka: ACK! NOT THAT! ANYTHING BUT THAT!! (Oh no...my most carefully guarded secret has been laid bare, for all to see! This is humiliating!) Sakuya: What IS that?! Yugi: (has sweatdrops form on her forehead) That would be the outfit ALL Juraian girls and women wear when they're getting ready to be married. You see, Sakuya...this outfit's for...bridegroom training. Dad told me all about how mom whipped him into shape. (smiles a bit, thinking about Kamadake, her father) As a knight, he could endure any type of pain, especially for the one he loved. (looks down, is exasperated) Almost EVERY Juraian female has been trained to do this. Fortunately, this type of training doesn't happen until a Juraian girl is 7 years old. (Which might be a blessing for me, since I was banished from Jurai when I was SIX.) It takes...10 years to complete. Sakuya: (gasps) This is all too unreal. I'm REALLY GLAD I was born on Earth...not Jurai. I'd shudder to think of me doing something like that to Tenchi. (Sometimes, our home planet's traditions are SCARY!) Ryoko: (laughs insanely) WOW! I never knew Ayeka had that type of outfit! Wait till I tell Tenchi about this! Kagato: Now, let's see what hidden secrets Kiyone and the others harbor. Kiyone's counterpart wore a skimpy outfit. She wore a red shirt with gold trimming. It had black shoulders and sleeves. This shirt also shown a little bit of cleavage. She also wore a red thong which has gold trimming as well. On her feet were black boots which also had gold trimming. Instead of having blue hair and blue eyes, she had black hair and green eyes, just like Kiyoko. Evil Kiyone: (emerges from the mirror) So, are you ready to have fun? Kiyone: (looks at Evil Kiyone in shock) AHH! What ARE you?! Evil Kiyone: I'm you, of course. The you which stems from your own subconscious desires and ambitions. You've had some moments when you were a bit ambitious, yourself. I'm going to enjoy whipping you into shape. (gets a whip out) Kiyone: Uh oh... The next one was a shocker. When Mihoshi looked into the mirror, an exact duplicate of her came out. There was no way to tell them apart. In fact, they looked at each other, and complained about how hungry they were. Mihoshi and Mihoshi2: (both look at each other, and their stomachs growl) You know, I'm getting kind of hungry. Mihoshi: Hey...you are, too? Mihoshi2: Hey...are you, too? Kiyone: (looks at both Mihoshis with a dumbfounded look) I don't... Evil Kiyone: (looks at both Mihoshis the same was as Kiyone) Believe it. The final person who exited from the mirror was Nagi's twin..who looked exactly like her other self, as well. Since Nagi's only desire is to catch criminals and to prove she's better than Ryoko, her double was exactly like she was.. Nagi2: (steps out of the mirror) So, are you ready to see if we're in top shape? Nagi: (smirks) Yes. I most certainly am. Let's fight! And so, the battle between the girls and their doubles began. Evil Kiyone began her attack by using her whip on her counterpart. Kiyone jumped away, and attempted to kick her. She dodged it, and gave her good self a punch in the arm. Evil Kiyone: Let's see if I'm as skilled as you! (uses her whip) Kiyone: (jumps away) Not bad! Let's see you dodge THIS! (does a jump kick) Evil Kiyone: (dodges it) That's easy to do! How do you like THIS?! (punches Kiyone in the arm) Kiyone: OWTCH! I DON'T LIKE IT! Meanwhile, SM Queen Ayeka started using her whip on her counterpart, asking her why she's so shy about this outfit and tradition. Ayeka tripped, fell and got up, while telling her other self the reason why. SM Queen Ayeka: Why are you hiding the fact you have this outfit, and this whip from Lord Tenchi? (uses her whip) If you truly love him, you MUST use the whip of love to test his devotion!! It's a tradition which has endured for thousands of years! Ayeka: (trips and falls) OOPH! (gets up) Because...If I do it too soon, he might alienate me. I'm not certain of how he feels for me, yet. Once I am certain that he loves me, I might reconsider...but I won't do it, as long as he is unable to decide between me, Sakuya and Ryoko. SM Queen Ayeka: Speaking of Sakuya, didn't you once imagine her in a red dominatrix outfit, wielding a whip? If I remember correctly, she had a red-leather leotard which had ruffles on the chest area and a miniskirt attached to it, pink silk stockings with ruffles starting at the upper leg, along with long, silk gloves which ALSO had ruffles on them, as well? Ayeka: Yes, well I... SM Queen Ayeka: Also, if I recall, she also wore red leather gloves and boots...a red choker, and a blue cape. And, unless I've forgotten, she held a staff in her left hand, and a whip in her right...and...last, but not least...she wore the sunglasses she usually has on top of her head, when she's casually dressed. Have I missed any details? Ayeka: (looks blue in the face, is embarrassed) No...you haven't. SM Queen Ayeka: For all you know, Sakuya could be well-versed in the ways of our ancestors. And, if you're not quick enough, she might use the bridegroom training techniques on Tenchi before you get a chance to do so. Ayeka defended Sakuya, saying she'd never do such a thing. That got her tied up by her twin's whip. Ayeka: No...you're WRONG! Sakuya would NEVER do such a thing! She doesn't have a mean bone in her body. I was wrong about her! She's not a stalker, or a seductress! She won Tenchi's heart fair and square...by using something Ryoko and I need to have a little more of. SM Queen Ayeka: Oh...and what is that, princess? What is the quality you and Ryoko lack? What is the quality that Sakuya had used to win Lord Tenchi's heart? Ayeka: Sakuya never approached Lord Tenchi aggressively, nor did she use any underhanded tatics to seduce him. She was able to win Tenchi's heart with...HER KINDNESS! Sakuya: (thinks to herself) She stood up for me...aw, man...I'm so lucky to have these guys as my friends. (smiles) Thank you, Ayeka. SM Queen Ayeka: You know, for saying something as dumb as that, I'm afraid I have to tie you up. (uses her whip to tie Ayeka up) Ayeka: AAAAIIIIEEEEE!!! Evil Kiyone decided to do the same thing that SM Queen Ayeka did to her counterpart, and tied Kiyone up, as well. Evil Kiyone: Hmmm...that isn't a bad idea, SM Joou-sama. I'll tie my other self up, too. (uses her whip to tie Kiyone up) Kiyone: AAGGHH!! At that same moment, both Mihoshis were wondering about what they should snack on. Mihoshi: Let's see...maybe a pineapple would be nice. Mihoshi2: Nah...not today. How about an apple? Mihoshi: (shrugs) Sorry. Don't feel like having one. How about some pizza? Mihoshi2: Maybe...(thinks) On second thought, maybe not. Don't want to eat it all at once, and get heartburn, now do we? Mishoshi: You're right. What about raspberries? Mihoshi2: I don't know... Mihoshi and Mihoshi 2: (both are in deep thought) Hmmm...what are we going to eat, when we get home? Nagi and her other self were fighting sword to sword, and were evenly matched. For a few minutes, they were locked in hand-to-hand combat. Nagi: (swings her sword, and its parried by Nagi2's blade) You ARE as good as me! It's rare to get such a challenge! Nagi2: (her sword clashes with Nagi's) I know! It's the chance of a lifetime! I'm not going to mess this up! Nagi: Neither am I! Just then, Kiyone was freaking out about her situation...while Ayeka just looked at her other self in embarrassment. Both of their counterparts just laughed. Kiyone: GAH!! (freaks out) I never thought I'd be beaten by my own self! It's too freaky for me! Ayeka: I know what you mean. (a big anime-type sweatdrop forms on her head, as she looks at her twin) This is way too embarrassing for me. Evil Kiyone: Looks like we've wrapped this one up. (laughs) SM Queen Ayeka: Yes. We did quite well, didn't we? Oh ho ho ho ho ho ho ho ho. Kiyone wasn't the only one who was freaked out. At that moment, the holographic screen popped up on the room, and it revealed Sakuya and Yugi. Sakuya was very, VERY freaked out. Yugi was humiliated about this, as well. Sakuya: GYAH!! (is EXTREMELY freaked out) This is SERIOUS! Yugi: (a single sweatdrop forms on her head) Seriously silly, anyway... At that moment, Yugi and Sakuya look at each other, and are relieved that they weren't in the Reverse World...for two very good reasons. Sakuya: (looks at Yugi) You know, sis...I'm sure glad I'm not in there. (imagines facing a version of herself in the outfit SM Queen Ayeka described) Yugi: (looks at Sakuya) Same here, Sakuya...same here. (imagines facing her younger, misguided self) Hotsuma was just as shocked as the girls. But, Ryoko and Kagato were getting a laugh out of this rather UNUSUAL situation. Hotsuma: I know what you mean. Facing yourself in there must be embarrassing. (imagines facing himself in his hulking catlike form) Ryoko: (laughs insanely) Aw, come on! You must admit, they ARE having a blast! This is too perfect! Ayeka's beating herself up! (laughs again) Hotsuma: (glances at Ryoko) You know, Ryoko...there is somthing wrong with you. Ryoko: (looks at Hotsuma, and stops laughing) Yeah, right. HMPH!! (turns her head away) Kagato: (laughs a little) I wonder how they'll get out of this one? In a flash, Kagato's question was quickly answered, when both Nagis decided to end their battle, and sliced the whips apart. Now, Ayeka and Kiyone had a chance to retaliate. Nagi: (stops fighting) Looks like they need our help. (looks at Nagi2) So then...want to declare this a draw? Nagi2: Sure thing. I mean, what are we waiting for? (goes to Ayeka and frees her) Come on, Princess. No time to be lying down on the job. Ayeka: (gets up) Thanks, Nagi. Nagi2: Don't mention it. SM Queen Ayeka: (looks at Ayeka, and panics) Uh oh... Nagi: (frees Kiyone using her sword) Thought you could use a little help, Officer Kiyone. Kiyone: (brushes herself off) Thanks, Nagi. Now...we can fight our doubles in earnest! Evil Kiyone: (has a look of uncertainty on her face) We're busted. Kiyone: (smirks) You are so right. In a smooth motion, Kiyone got out her combat yo-yo and used it to tie Evil Kiyone up. Kiyone: Let's see how YOU like it! (uses her combat yo-yo to tie up Evil Kiyone) Evil Kiyone: GGAAAHHH!! Kiyone: (holds the glowing string of the yo-yo triumphantly, and smirks) Now...your number is up! Evil Kiyone: Crud....I give up. You win. Ayeka then finished her match by firing a concentrated blast of Jurai power, knocking SM Queen Ayeka senseless. Ayeka: I'm sorry to say this, but...(blasts SM Queen Ayeka) you lose. SM Queen Ayeka: AGGHH! (is knocked out) Ooooohhh.... Just then, at that moment, both Mihoshis finally agreed on a snack to eat, when the real Mihoshi gets back to Earth. Mihoshi: Maybe some blueberry pie? Mihoshi2: Nah...(face brightens) I GOT IT! Let's have a watermelon! Mihoshi: YEAH! I am DEFINITELY in the mood for munching on a watermelon, when I get back! (shakes her other self's hand) Thanks for the help. Mihoshi2: (smiles happily) You're welcome. See you later. Nagi was ready to say goodbye to her twin, as well. Nagi: Well, that was a good fight. Nagi2: Yeah. Not bad, for a warm-up. Maybe this will get you ready for next week's Karaoke Duel, huh? Nagi: (smirks) You got that right. (turns around, looks at her twin, and smiles) See ya. Nagi2: Yeah. Later. Ayeka: These traps are getting deadlier and more embarrassing at the same time. Kiyone: I just hope we can survive at least three more challenges. Mihoshi: Yeah. So do I. Kiyone: (makes a smart-aleck remark) So far, the most challenging this FOR YOU was deciding on what to snack on, when we get back. Mihoshi: Maybe...then again, maybe not. (remembers how close she was to falling into the lava pit) I was so scared back there, Kiyone. I almost thought I'd die in that lava pit. (cries) If it weren't for you, I'd be DEEEAADD!! Kiyone: (puts a hand on Mihoshi's shoulder) But you didn't die, Mihoshi. You're still alive. I'll always be there for you, ok? Mihoshi: Got it. I'll always be there for you, too...partner. (smiles) Kiyone: That's the Mihoshi I like to see. Let's GO! And so, the four allies went into the next chamber...which had holes all over both walls. Nagi and the others wondered about what the holes were for...they were instantly answered by lasers which shot out from both ends. Nagi: Hmmm...I wonder...what is this room going to do? Kiyone: (sees lasers begin to shoot from the walls) OH NO! These things are laser blasters! We gotta move!! Ayeka dodged every blast with a good amount of agility. Nagi jumped, ducked and slid over each deadly blast. Mihoshi jumped around like a scared cat, and went all over the place. Kiyone was able to dodge most of them, but one of the laser blasts was about to reach her, when Mihoshi jumped in the way and took the blast, saving her partner in the process. Kiyone: (sees a laser blast dangerously head toward her) Oh no! I'm done for! I'm sorry, Mihoshi! (closes her eyes) Mihoshi: Oh no...Kiyone! (gets in the laser's path) I'LL SAVE YOU, KIYONE!! (is hit by the laser beam) Kiyone: Wha? I'm alright? But why? (opens them and sees Mihoshi was blasted) Mihoshi?! Are you alright? Mihoshi: (suit is smoking, but she's still standing) Yeah. I'm okay. Kiyone: (take Mihoshi with her, and both of them dodge the other laser beams) That's good, now let's MOVE!! Kiyone and Mihoshi made a mad dash for the door. They were both able to make it into the sixth chamber with no further trouble. After that, Kiyone asked Mihoshi why she did such a thing. Kiyone: (hugs Mihoshi and cries) Mihoshi? Why did you do such a thing? I could've lost you for good. Mihoshi: I had to do it, Kiyone. You're very important to me. I just couldn't allow you to die like that. That would've been awful. Besides...my armor saved me, again. I'm glad you asked me to put my armor on. Kiyone: (is still crying, but is smiling) You're so lucky, Mihoshi. No matter what happens, you always make it out in one piece. I'm so proud of you. Mihoshi: Thanks, Kiyone. Now then, let's go get Kiyoko. Kiyone: Right. At this time, Ryoko was pulling out all the stops. She revealed that she absorbed the power of the Jurai Light Stone. Then, she made a giant duplicate of herself from a marble pillar. Kagato: (sword clashes with Ryoko's blade) I still don't know why you allowed your friends and rival to go into the Reverse World, Ryoko. Enlighten me, please. Ryoko: (jumps back, and touches a pillar) Because, they wouldn't have been able to survive the full extent of my power. (smirks) You see...during the time I turned into a demon three years ago, I absorbed all of the Jurai Light Stone's power. It increased my own strength tenfold. (pillar takes on Ryoko's shape) Stone Ryoko: (grabs Kagato) And now, you will feel my full wrath! I'm not holding back, this time. Yugi asked Hotsuma if he was able to do what Ryoko did. It was obvious that he couldn't. Yugi: Hotsuma, are you able to do what Ryoko did, just now? (parries a blow from Tetta's staff) Hotsuma: (is freaked out) I can't...do...THAAAATT! Kagato was overjoyed to see Ryoko was finally tapping into her full potential. Kagato: Yes! This is what I wanted! I was wrong about you, Ryoko. You aren't a weakling, after all. You were deliberately holding back, when we fought in Okiyama, weren't you? Stone Ryoko: That's right. I refuse to harm my friends, by tapping into my full potential! However, since Ayeka, Kiyone, Mihoshi and Nagi are in the Reverse World, I can use my full power without fear. Now....you will DIE!! (tries to crush him) Kagato: Very good, Ryoko. You've definitely became stronger than you used to be. But, you too...will see MY FULL POWER! (uses telekinetic powers to throw a spear at Stone Ryoko, destroying her, and forces Ryoko to cough up blood, when a piece of stone hits her) Ryoko: UUGGGHHH! (coughs up blood, and is forced down) No, Kagato...I won't let you get away with it this time! (gets up) Now...you WILL be...(sees a flashing light) What is that? Kagato: They've already made it to Sector 6...I never thought they'd get this far. (looks at Ryoko) Time for one more break. Ryoko: Now what? Hotsuma: Man, Ryoko...you're really starting to wipe the floor with Kagato. Ryoko: Thanks. We're so close, now. Soon...Kagato and his cronies will be destroyed. Kagato: Time for our guests to know of the next challenge. (turns on the PA System) Well now, you've surprised even me by going THIS FAR. I didn't think you'd make it all the way to Chamber Six. You're almost there. Want to know of your next challenge? Nagi: As a matter of fact, we do. Kagato: Very well. Here, you must "Face Your Worst Fear." Each of you will be forced to relive moments when your worst fears seemed to be realized...and in order to overcome them, you must also remember moments which told you everything will be alright. The computer will make you recall everything...and I DO mean...EVERYTHING. Now, I wish you the best of luck. If you make it, I will tell you about the seventh and FINAL challenge. Later. Once again, Kagato's computer scanned the minds of the four "contestants." This time, it made them remember things that they hoped they wouldn't have to recall, ever again. Ayeka was first. Ayeka: No...not this! I remember...the awful dream I had. After everyone drifted away, I saw...that Lord Tenchi, Kiyone, Mihoshi, Washuu and my sister Sasami...had been turned to stone. Even Ryoko couldn't stop it. Then, I saw Yugi...who was evil, back then. She laughed so maliciously, and turned ME to stone, as well. My worst fear is losing everyone that I care for, including Ryoko. But, when the gems called us all to Yugi's Crystal Palace, my fears were dispelled. We all made it, safely. Even though my worst fear has resurfaced, when Ryoko found a piece of Lord Tenchi's scarf...I trust Yugi completely. I know...he will come to save us all. I believe in him. Kiyone was next to face her worst fear, followed by Nagi. Kiyone: (collapses to her knees, crying) I know what my worst fear is, all too well. It's losing my partner, Mihoshi! She risked her life for me and took a blast which Tsugaru was going to use against me. For a moment, I thought she would die. But...her luck prevailed...and she lived. I feared such an event would happen again. Which was why I asked Mihoshi to put on her combat armor. She did...and it enabled her to save...BOTH of our lives. Nagi: My worst fear is losing Ryoko. Three years ago, there were rumors which told me that Ryoko had died in the middle of nowhere. For months, I thought I'd never catch her...until I was at a local bar, where some vermin heard about Ryoko living on Earth. I was overjoyed. My greatest rival was alive. And I didn't want anyone else to get her. That's why I'll do anything to stop somebody else from killing her. Ryoko is mine to take in! I won't allow ANYBODY to INTERFERE...not even KAGATO!! Finally, it was Mihoshi's turn. Unfortunately, for the computer, her fear was snack-oriented. Mihoshi: No...Oh my. What am I going to do? Am I going to eat a cherry pie...or a chocolate cake? Maybe I might have some sushi...or some tempura...(remembers what she wants) OH YEAH! (raises her fist high in victory) I'LL HAVE A WATERMELON! Computer: Warning! Warning! Subject Mihoshi's fears are too problematic! Going crazy! Need to shut off and divert all of my remaining power to the cobra chamber. This unit is shutting dooowwwnnn...(dies out) When Kagato saw what Mihoshi's ditziness did to the computer, he raised his eyebrow in confusion. Kagato: (raises an eyebrow) This never happened before. Oh well. What's done is done. And now...for the final test. Back in the Reverse World, Ayeka and the others realized that they were close to their goal. They had to advance. Ayeka: Oh my goodness. We've beaten almost all of the chambers. Kiyone: You're right! The last chamber is waiting for us! Nagi: We've gone too far to turn back, now. Mihoshi: Come on, you guys! Let's go free Kiyoko! Ayeka, Kiyone & Nagi: YEAH!! As they passed through the door, they saw...twin cobra statues. They were poised as if they were guarding something. Between the two statues was a glass cylinder...and inside it was a woman...a woman named Kiyoko. Kagato decided to be extra generous, and let his enemies see how the foursome will do in the final challenge. Kagato: You know, I decided to be extra generous, today. I'm extending this break long enough to see how well your friends will do in the final chamber. (turns on the PA System) I am pleased with your progress. You have done extremely well, and have gone far beyond my expectations. Now, your final challenge awaits you. Kiyone: And what would that be? Kagato: Do you see those two stone cobras? In a few seconds, they will come to life, and you must defeat them. If you do...Kiyoko will be freed. Now, go and do your best. This is your ultimate test. Make it count. Good luck. Kiyone was a bit scared. She was worried about what would happen if those snakes would come to life. As she spoke, they did just that. Kiyone: Oh, man! This is bad. We have to beat those things? What will happen if they do come to life? Nagi: I think we're about to FIND OUT!! (sees the snakes come to life) Ayeka: Everybody, we must scramble and use our most powerful attacks! Kiyoko's freedom is at stake! LET'S GO! Nagi, Mihoshi and Kiyone: GOT IT! The cobras first tried to attack Ayeka, who deflected their charge with a force field. Then, Nagi struck a cobra with her energy whip. One cobra then charged towards Mihoshi, who used some missles on it. It looked as though it didn't do a dent...at first. But then, as the smoke cleared, Kiyone saw Ayeka was right about using powerful attacks, as the cobra was beginning to crumble. Ayeka: Away you beasts! (deflects the cobras away from her) Nagi: (sees a snake change direction) Oh no, you don't! (uses her whip on it) Cobra 1: (has a wide-eyed look which says...IT HURTS!!) Mihoshi: Take that, you ugly snake! (fires a volley of missiles at a cobra.) Oh man! It didn't work! Kiyone: (sees the 2nd cobra has some cracks on it) Don't be so sure...LOOK!! As Mihoshi looked, Ayeka saw that the cylinder was beginning to crack, as well. Mihoshi: (sees the cracks) Well what do you know? It did do some damage. Ayeka: (sees the glass prison was beginning to break) That's not the only thing that's happening. LOOK!! Nagi: I see. Every time these things suffer from a powerful blow, the prison slowly breaks. if we keep attacking them with all of our most powerful moves at once...Kiyoko will be freed! FULL POWER to ALL WEAPONS!! Kiyone: (puts an anti-matter explosive into her gun) Right! Ayeka: All set! (powers up) Mihoshi: (reloads her missile launcher) My missile launcher is ready to rock! Nagi: On my mark....(unsheathes her sword, and activates the laser blaster built into it) The twin cobras got closer and closer to the four girls. When they were at a relatively safe distance, they let the stone snakes have it. Nagi: FIRE!! (fires a powerful blast at the snake on the left) Kiyone: You got it! (fires on the snake Nagi's going against) Ayeka: We've gone too far to turn back! WE WILL NOT FAIL!! (fires her most powerful energy blast at the snake on the right) Mihoshi: Weapons locked on target...maximum power! FIRE! (fires her missiles at the snake Ayeka's fighting) Using their incredible firepower, Ayeka, Mihoshi, Kiyone and Nagi blasted the snakes with all they got. When the smoke cleared, the cobras both burst into a thousand pieces, and were totally destroyed. Ayeka: Whoa! Look at that! I think we did it! We destroyed the cobras! Kiyone: Does this mean we won? Have we saved Kiyoko? Nagi: (sees something happening to the glass cylinder) There's your answer, over there! LOOK! All eyes were peeled on the cylinder which Kiyoko was trapped in. It cracked everywhere. Then, her green eyes opened. In no time at all, the glass cylinder itself burst into a thousand pieces. Ayeka protected everyone from the flying shards of glass using a force field. Ayeka: Everyone...BRACE YOURSELVES! (protects everyone from a thousand flying pieces of glass) Nagi: (sees the glass get deflected successfully, and watches as it stops) Look...it stopped. Kiyone: I think you can dissipate the force field now. Ayeka: Right. (dissipates the force field, and sees Kiyoko who's a bit disoriented) KIYOKO!! (runs to her, and gives her a hug similar to the ones her mother gives) When the glass stopped flying, Ayeka saw Kiyoko was free. She was curious about what happened. Because of the powers of the Reverse World, the fatal wound which killed her a few years ago was gone. She was amazed to see Ayeka...who gave Kiyoko a bone-breaking hug...just like her mother Misaki sometimes gives. Kiyoko: Ayeka? Is that you? (feels her breath being stolen away by the hug) Will you...PLEASE...let me go? You're...choking me. Ayeka: Oh. Sorry. (lets go) I thought I'd never see you again. It's been so long since I last saw you alive. Kiyoko quickly regained her bearings and asked Ayeka how long has she been in the cobra chamber. Kiyoko: Wait a second...I remember now. I was taken into this place by some sort of tractor beam. Then, as I realized I was alive again, a glass cylinder fell on me, and filled with a gas which put me in suspended animation. How long has it been, Ayeka? Ayeka: (cries) It's been three...maybe four years since you died. Ryoko and I missed you so much! Kiyoko: Oh man...so, that's how long I was imprisoned. Thank you for freeing me. Back on the surface, Kagato was extremely amazed at the performance of the four women. He then gave Ryoko and Hotsuma an opportunity to talk to Kiyoko. Kagato: Remarkable! They've all been able to make it past all seven traps. They even succeeded in freeing Kiyoko. I haven't been this well entertained in years. (is very pleased) Ryoko: Can we talk to her...before we conclude our battle, Kagato? Kagato: (nods at both Ryoko and Hotsuma) Yes. You may speak to her. Both you and Hotsuma can talk with her for a few minutes. Then, we can conclude our battle. Yugi: What about us? Sakuya: Yeah. What are we going to do? Kagato: Well...I thought that now would be the perfect time to conclude your fight with Tetta and Tessei. Go for it. (turns on the holographic screen in chamber seven) Yugi: (recharges her sword, and looks at Sakuya) Alright! Ready Sakuya? Sakuya: (looks at Yugi, and does the same thing as she did) I was born ready, sis! Yugi: YEAH! (I think i'm going to enjoy having Sakuya as my sister. I know dad will approve of this, too.) Tetta: It's time. Yugi: Yes...it is. (looks at Tetta with a determined glare) Tessei: Ready to conclude our match? Sakuya: You know it. (looks at Tessei with a determined expression) As Yugi and Sakuya began their final bout, Ryoko and Hotsuma spoke with their long-lost comrade. Ryoko: Kiyoko! It's me, Ryoko! How've you been? Kiyoko: I've been okay, despite these lackluster accommodations. Have you been keeping out of trouble, Ryoko? Ryoko: So and so. Oh yeah! I met Mr. Right! His name is Tenchi Masaki! Hopefully, you'll be able to meet him in a few minutes! Kiyoko: (smiles) I can't wait to see him. (sees Hotsuma) My love! It's really you! I missed you so much! Hotsuma: (smiles, and cries) I missed you, too. I thought I'd never see you again. Kiyoko: You shouldn't worry about me. I'm just glad to see you're alive and well. (smiles) Hotsuma? Hotsuma: Yes? Kiyoko: Is there anything you want to ask me? Hotsuma: (smiles) If we all make it out of this alive, I just might pop you a question. Kiyoko: Thanks. I'm so happy to see you again. Kagato then turned around to face Ryoko and Hotsuma. Their final round had come. Kagato: I hope you've had a happy reunion. Because as of now...the time has come for our final confrontation. (charges up his energy sword) Are you prepared? Ryoko: I SURE AM! (charges up her energy sword) Hotsuma: So am I! (energizes his energy sword) And so, the conclusion of this titanic struggle had finally begun. Back in subspace, Kain was watching Achika and Tenchi go through the portal. He was rather impatient. Kain: How much longer will it take for those two Juraians to get there? I've seen space slugs move faster than they do! (sees them nearing the portal's end) Ah...it's about time. Now, Lady Achika...we shall see your true colors. At that time, in the portal which lead to the Souja, Tenchi and his mother have nearly reached their destination. Tenchi: We're almost there, mother! Achika: Good. You go on ahead to the chapel of the Souja! That's where Kagato is fighting Ryoko, Hotsuma, Sakuya and Yugi. I will wait out here, to deflect whatever blast comes toward the Earth. Then, I shall enter the Souja through the bottom, and meet you in the Chapel. Then, you will see what I can do when the lives of those I love are at stake. Tenchi: (sees the portal intersect, and goes to where the Chapel and his friends and foes are visible) Sounds like a plan. (charges through) Wish me luck! Achika: Good luck, Tenchi! Be careful! (goes to the right, which leads to the exterior of the Souja) Finally, after a long and perilous journey, Kiyoko was finally freed from her captivity. Now, all that can be done is to watch, and wait...as this colossal battle reaches its explosive conclusion! Don't miss the next exciting chapter of Kagato's Attack..."Achika Explodes! The Final Confrontation!!" To Be Continued...