Tenchi Muyo Fan Fiction ❯ Ayeka's attack... and a new villian ❯ Chapter 5
[ T - Teen: Not suitable for readers under 13 ]
By: metallica_wedo 
Tenchi and Ayeka tell the family everything...
Anime/Manga: Tenchi Muyo Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Drama / Romance | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 02.02.2003 | Updated On: 02.02.2003 | Pages: 4 | Words: 5.8K | Visits: 334 | Status: Completed
Tenchi and Ayeka tell the family everything...
Anime/Manga: Tenchi Muyo Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Drama / Romance | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 02.02.2003 | Updated On: 02.02.2003 | Pages: 4 | Words: 5.8K | Visits: 334 | Status: Completed
Disclaimer: I don't own Tenchi Muyo, if I did, I would be able to talk Japanese and probably not writing this in English, besides holding power over millions of fans by still not releasing the 3rd OVA.
A/N: Last time we found out Tenchi was mind controlled into being the one that attacked Ayeka. He came to terms with Ayeka, but has yet to reveal this secret to the rest of the family.
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Sasami was getting worried; she had served dinner an hour ago and Tenchi and Ayeka still weren't back. She knew that Tenchi had probably found out who had attacked her sister and wanted to tell her in private, but she didn't think it would take this long. She was interrupted from her thoughts by the sound of the front door opening. Tenchi called out a greeting from the entryway.
"Is anyone around, sorry we're late for dinner!"
"I'm in the kitchen Tenchi, yours and Ayeka's dinner are both in the oven!"
Tenchi helped Ayeka to the kitchen. "Thanks a lot Sasami, I'm starving."
Sasami brought back two hot plates of food, which were quickly eaten by the two starving people. Tenchi helped Sasami clean up while Ayeka went upstairs to get ready for bed. As they were cleaning Sasami remembered what she'd been thinking earlier and asked Tenchi what he had talked to Ayeka about.
"Tenchi, do you know who the person that attacked Ayeka is now?"
Tenchi stiffened a little when Sasami asked her question. "Yes Sasami, but I won't tell you who it is right now, you'll have to wait till later."
Sasami was a little disappointed; she didn't like being left out of the loop, but she didn't press the issue. She and Tenchi quickly finished the clean up and headed upstairs to go to bed. She could tell that something was bothering Tenchi as they went upstairs, it probably had something to do with the attacker. Sasami quickly thought of a way to cheer him up.
"Tenchi, would it be all right if me and Ayeka slept in your room tonight? If you told her who the attacker was I don't think she or I will be getting very good sleep tonight, but we might sleep better in your room."
Tenchi was a little surprised by Sasami's suggestion. Although Sasami and Washu had both slept in his room a few times, he'd never allowed Ayeka or Ryoko to sleep in his room because of the problems it could cause. He decided to make an exception this time though because he knew that Sasami was right and also because he was sure he'd sleep better with Ayeka nearby so he could check on her more easily.
"Well, O.K. Sasami, I guess it would be all right. You and I will sleep on futons though, O.K.? Now that we know that Ayeka is pregnant I think she should start sleeping on a bed anyway."
Tenchi and Sasami went to their own rooms and got ready for bed. Sasami wasn't sure how her sister would react to the invitation to Tenchi's room, but with a little coaxing she was sure Ayeka would come. When she entered her room she saw her sister was already in her futon trying to sleep, it was obvious that sleep would be a long time coming tonight though; she just hoped sleeping in Tenchi's room really would work. Sasami approached Ayeka after she'd gotten ready for bed.
"Ayeka, are you still awake?"
"Yes Sasami, do you need a story tonight?"
"No, it's just that I asked Tenchi if we could sleep in his room tonight because I doubt either of us will get much sleep otherwise with the news you must have received today."
Ayeka blushed at the thought of sleeping in Tenchi's room, even if it were a separate bed. Fortunately, Sasami didn't see the blush because it was dark, so she couldn't tease her. Ayeka had already resigned herself to a sleepless night, but the thought of sleeping in Tenchi's room was comforting...
"Did he say it was alright?"
"Of course, he wants you to take the bed though."
Sasami knew her sister would be embarrassed to sleep in Tenchi's bed, but she hoped Ayeka wouldn't make a big deal about it; she agreed with Tenchi that Ayeka should have something softer to sleep on now.
Ayeka was even more embarrassed by the thought of not only sleeping in Tenchi's room, but also in his bed. She knew Tenchi was concerned about her but she didn't want to inconvenience him.
"I don't know about that Sasami, we'll discuss it when we get there, alright?"
Sasami had expected her sister to be stubborn, but she was sure Tenchi would be rather adamant considering her condition.
"OK Ayeka, we'll discuss it with Tenchi."
Meanwhile...
Tenchi had just finished getting into some PJ's and decided it was time to set up the futons. He went to his closet and pulled out the two that Washu and Sasami usually used. He always insisted that they take his bed, but they rarely accepted. This made him think of Ayeka's reaction; he was sure she would refuse the bed, but he was determined that she take it and he wasn't about to change his mind. As Tenchi was waiting for the two princesses his worst fear was realized, he heard the distinct sound of Ryoko teleporting into his room. She immediately wrapped her arms around him in one of her hugs. Sometimes he wondered if she had taken lessons from Misaki.
"Tenchiiii, where were you all day, hmmm?"
"Can't... breathe..."
Ryoko realized she was holding Tenchi a little too tightly and loosened her grip. Then she noticed the two futons he had set up. She knew that he never allowed her or Ayeka to stay in his room because of the potential for violence, he had said as much, but it still hurt that he let anyone else sleep in his room. For a moment jealousy seized her, even though she knew Sasami wouldn't take Tenchi from her, you never knew what to expect from the 'great' Washu.
"Tenchi, why are you letting Sasami and Washu sleep in your room again? It's not fair that I can't sleep in here too."
"Actually it's Sasami and Ayeka that are sleeping over..."
Tenchi realized his mistake right after the words came out of his mouth. 'Oh crap!!! Ryoko is NOT going to take this very well.' He tried to come up with some way to appease her, but nothing came to mind.
"WHAT?!!! Why are you letting that bitch stay in here when you still won't let me stay?!!! I want an explanation now!"
Although originally Tenchi had no idea how he would appease Ryoko, as soon as she called Ayeka a bitch Tenchi didn't really care. He didn't know why he suddenly felt so strongly about one of them calling the other names, after all, he usually stayed back whenever they fought before, but this time Ryoko had hit something deep inside him and he was angry beyond reason.
"How dare you call Ayeka that?! The only reason she's staying in here is because she's pregnant and until dad buys her a bed or Washu makes one, mine is the only one she can use! Besides which she's still pretty upset that she was attacked! If anyone here is a bitch then it's you! You're always starting fights with Ayeka and practically trying to rape me! You think the others are freeloaders but you don't even help around the house, let alone pay rent! If you want to stay here I suggest you get out of my sight and consider what I said."
Even through her initial anger Ryoko could hear the hurt in Tenchi's voice as he yelled at her. She had only called Ayeka a bitch, it wasn't even close to the worst she had ever called her rival before, but for some reason it had ignited anger in Tenchi she had never seen before, and the implications of his anger scared her, a lot. The only reason she could see that Tenchi would get so angry at her for something so simple was if... NO! There must be another explanation, he couldn't love Ayeka, there was no way! But the evidence was plain before her, he may not have said he loved her, but actions speak much louder than words, don't they? Once he finished his tirade she decided to take his advice, at least as far as disappearing went.
Once Tenchi had finished his rant, he went back over what he had said and was shocked. He had never yelled at any of the girls before, certainly not that viscously. He realized that he had probably lost his temper because of all the stress he'd had to deal with today, but that was still no excuse, he needed to find Ryoko to apologize to her before she did something drastic. As he opened his door to go find Ryoko he found Ayeka and Sasami standing there.
"Oh, uh... hi. I'll be right back, but I need to find Ryoko to apologize to her. You don't have to wait up for me but I should be back soon."
Ayeka didn't quite know how to take Tenchi going to apologize to Ryoko, let alone what he had been yelling. On the one hand, she was happy he had stood up for her for once, but at the same time, his uncharacteristic shouting, even if it was at Ryoko, kind of scared her. But no matter her rivalry with Ryoko, she agreed that Tenchi definitely did need to apologize to her.
"Do you want us to go back to our room? I'm sure it would help settle things with Ryoko."
"That's not necessary Ayeka, although what I said to Ryoko was out of anger, I still think that you should be sleeping in a bed from now on, OK? Hopefully Washu can make one for you soon."
"OK Tenchi, if that's what you think is best."
"It is, I'll try to be back soon."
With that Tenchi began his search for Ryoko. Although he doubted she would be in any of her usual places he still checked her room, the rafter, the roof and the rest of the house, but he still hadn't found her. Not that surprised he realized that she was probably somewhere outside, most likely her cave. He couldn't just go out in his PJs so he went back to his room to get changed.
"Tenchi? You're back already? Is Ryoko OK now?"
"I just need to change, she's not in the house so she's probably somewhere outside." Tenchi saw Ayeka start to get out of his bed in preparation to leave his room. "Now you stay there, I'll just take my clothes to the bathroom to change."
"Oh, OK Tenchi."
Tenchi quickly got what he needed and went to the bathroom. When he was finished changing he left the house at a jog and started calling out Ryoko's name when he entered the woods. When he was almost to the cave he saw an orange light coming from the entrance and knew where Ryoko was. He picked up his pace and ran to Ryoko, whom he found sobbing in the fetal position. Feeling even more ashamed for doing this to her he slowly approached her and spoke quietly to her.
"Ryoko... I am very, VERY sorry that I yelled at you and called you those... names. Please let me explain, I just had a very stressful day and when you came in I guess it was the proverbial straw the broke the camel's back."
Ryoko only barely registered what Tenchi said, still convinced that Tenchi was in love with Ayeka, and she was heartbroken over it. She did have to wonder what could have given Tenchi so much stress that he yelled at her like that though; sure, he usually got annoyed whenever she hugged him, but even then he had never yelled at her. Since Tenchi was here she was beginning to wonder if she had read his reaction correctly and though she wasn't sure she could forgive him just yet she was willing to hear him out. She slowly stopped sobbing; though there were still a few tears running down her cheeks, and sat up.
"What... what was so stressful about today Tenchi?"
Ryoko did realize that finding out who Ayeka's attacker was would be stressful to him, he did care about everyone in his household after all, but it shouldn't have stressed him as much as it had seemed to. She started having doubts again as she thought that the only reason he would be so stressed would be because he did indeed love Ayeka.
"It's because you love her... isn't it Tenchi?"
This caught Tenchi completely off guard. It was obvious Ryoko was talking about Ayeka, but where had she gotten the idea that he loved her? He cared about everyone in his new family of course, but he was sure that wasn't the type of love Ryoko meant. When he looked at it through Ryoko's eyes he could see where she might get that impression though; ever since the attack he had made an effort to help Ayeka out however he could, he had slept in the lab during her operation, and she might even have seen him take a walk with her today. When he said that Ayeka would be sleeping in his room tonight it must have been the last straw for Ryoko, especially considering his reaction to calling Ayeka a name. He was sure he would do the same thing for any of the girls if they had gone through something so horrible, wouldn't he? He still wasn't sure if he felt that way about any of the girls, though it was hard to tell so easily with Ryoko and Ayeka. None the less, he wasn't going to make a decision like that this second and he knew that the only way to clear things up with Ryoko would be to tell her what he had learned today. He had wanted to explain it to the rest of the family all at once so he wouldn't have to go through this a third time, but he also didn't want to see Ryoko so forlorn.
"I do care for her Ryoko, just as I care for all of you. I can't really say that I am in love with any of you right now. It really was a very stressful day for me today, it had to do with something I found out about concerning Ayeka's attack."
Although she was happy Tenchi hadn't confessed he was in love with Ayeka, Ryoko still had some lingering doubts, considering his actions; after all, what else could be so stressful to him about the attack on Ayeka?
"What did you find out Tenchi?"
"Well, first of all, let me tell you that since the attack I've been having a vivid nightmare about the attack, I saw everything that happened. I approached Washu about it this morning and she ran some tests on me to see if she could help. What she found out is that I had contracted a genetically engineered virus targeted only for me that was able to take control of me for a few minutes before it's effectiveness was diminished."
Ryoko most definitely did not like where this was leading. Sure, she could sympathize with being controlled against your will, but his reaction was starting to make more sense if she was right about what happened while he was controlled. Even if he wasn't in love with Ayeka, she would soon be under tremendous stress, and it was all because of him. She thought about how much she hated what Kagato had made her do to all those innocent people, and then thought about Tenchi. He was the most kind hearted person she knew, which was part of the reason why she loved him; after being forced to do what he did to someone he at least considers a friend he must not have known how to handle it. When she started yelling at him he must have finally found something to lash out at. She interrupted Tenchi before he had to say what she knew he most definitely did not want to.
"Tenchi, I think I understand now. It's because of that virus that Ayeka's pregnant, isn't it?"
Tenchi was a bit surprised that he was interrupted. He was also surprised by Ryoko's perceptiveness, he had never really thought about her as anything much more than a horny space pirate; yet, here she was actually being serious and not making any advances on him at all. She had even been able to figure out what had happened without him having to explain it, for which he was very grateful.
"Yes, that's right Ryoko. You see, when you came in my room earlier and then insulted Ayeka again I lost all reasoning. I've been trying to make sure she's all right ever since she got hurt, but with what I found out today I guess I feel a little over-protective. I'm really very sorry I hurt you Ryoko, I never meant to."
"I know Tenchi, I guess I did over-react a little though. I understand why you reacted the way you did now, I'm sorry I yelled at you."
"It's OK Ryoko, I should have told you before I went to bed, it's just that Sasami asked as we were all going to bed and I didn't know where you were."
"That's OK, It's not like I'm your keeper or something. By the way, when are you going to explain this to everyone else, they need to know too you know."
"Yes... I know. I'll probably tell them all at breakfast tomorrow. Goodnight Ryoko, I really need to get to bed."
"Goodnight Tenchi."
Tenchi hurried back to the house and changed in the bathroom again. He was glad he had straitened out things with Ryoko, but right now he really needed to get some sleep. He walked into his room quietly and put his clothes back away before stepping over to the futon he'd sleep in tonight. Both princesses were already asleep and he just watched them for a minute. Ayeka's breathing was slow and steady and she seemed almost perfectly content. Tenchi was glad she had gotten over her initial nervousness and was able to get some good sleep tonight. Tenchi caught himself staring at her and looked at Sasami. She was also asleep, but she was moving around in her futon, it seemed like she was having a nightmare. He could just barely make out some of the things she said.
"Ayeka... no... you.. Can't die...no... Tenchi... do something..."
Tenchi was a little worried about what she was saying, after all, she did have some sort of relationship with a goddess and she had had some rather detailed nightmares before, usually some part of them had come true sometime after she had them. Tenchi decided to wake her up so she might be able to get some more restful sleep after she calmed down. He moved over to her and shook her lightly.
"Sasami... wake up, it's just a bad dream."
Sasami woke up with a start, and, seeing Tenchi over her she enveloped him in a huge hug. She was crying a little as she relayed her dream to Tenchi.
"It was horrible Tenchi, I saw Ayeka die with everyone else just standing there, I tried to make you stop the bad man from hurting her, but you wouldn't move. Why wouldn't you try to save her? Why?"
Tenchi was a little disturbed as he listened to Sasami relate her dream to him. He hugged her and tried to comfort her, telling her it was only a dream, but at the same time he wondered just how much of this dream would come to be. He hoped that Sasami was just having a real nightmare for once rather than some sort of premonition. Sasami's crying and retelling of her dream must have woken Ayeka because he felt her hand on his shoulder as she kneeled next to him so she could comfort Sasami.
"Did you have another nightmare Sasami?"
Seeing her sister Sasami immediately went over to her and hugged her fiercely.
"Yes... I saw you die. There was a bad man and he just kept shocking you until you fell to the floor. Everyone else was just standing there and they wouldn't do anything! It was horrible!"
"Shhh... it's OK now, it was only a dream. I'm sure that everyone would never just stand there and watch one of us die, it was just a bad dream. Shhh..."
Ayeka had seen Sasami through many nightmares before and seen how so many of them came partly true. She was a little bit disturbed herself, but really, it was only a nightmare this time, right? Ayeka decided not to dwell on it and just comforted her sister until she finally calmed down.
"Let's all go to sleep now, we've disturbed Tenchi's rest enough as it is."
"No, that's OK Ayeka, I was happy to help with Sasami."
"That's not all I was talking about Tenchi, if we hadn't slept over than Ryoko wouldn't have gotten mad at you."
"That's OK Ayeka, I told Ryoko about the attacker, so she understands why I was under so much stress now. I think she even understands me letting you sleep in here. For now, let's all just get to sleep."
"Oh, OK Tenchi. Goodnight. Goodnight Sasami."
"Goodnight Ayeka, Sasami."
"Goodnight Tenchi. Goodnight Ayeka."
Finally, all three occupants of the young prince's room fell asleep. While the youngest of them was finally able to get some restful sleep, the other two weren't do lucky. Tenchi dreamed of telling everyone else what he had learned that day. After finally finishing his entire explanation everyone cried out for his execution, but worst of all, Ayeka agreed. Meanwhile, Ayeka was dreaming about the attack, which oddly enough, was the first time she had done so. She saw everything now, her walking around, then being knocked unconscious, and though she had only caught glimpses of the worst part of the attack as she drifted in and out of consciousness her imagination was more than up to the task of filling in the blanks. At about 4 in the morning, a scant six hours after they had finally gotten to sleep, both Tenchi and Ayeka finally awoke from their horrible dreams.
"Tenchi!"
"Ayeka!"
Although Tenchi had just woken up from a nightmare, and one concerning Ayeka no less, he pushed that aside as he rushed to Ayeka's side. He saw she was awake, but she was crying into a pillow and turned away from him. He sat down on the bed beside her and pulled her up into a hug. He stroked his fingers through her silky hair as he tried to soothe her.
"Shhh... Ayeka, it was only a dream, it's OK now... I'm here. It's OK... Shhh... It'll be all right, I'm right here, you don't need to worry."
Eventually Ayeka calmed down and came to her senses. For a moment she relished the feeling of just being in Tenchi's embrace, but then pulled reluctantly away. Even with the dream she had just had she still wasn't afraid of Tenchi, she knew he would never do anything like that if he were in control of himself.
"Thank you Tenchi. It's just... I had a dream that must have been quite similar to the one you told me about."
"You mean you dreamed about the attack? I'm sorry Ayeka, I can never say that enough times, but I am sorry."
"I know Tenchi, I told you I forgive you already. Umm... Tenchi? Why did you call out my name when you woke up?"
"Because I had a bad dream too. I dreamed about telling everyone what I learned about my role in the attack and they all turned on me. You... you even ordered my execution."
"I would never do that Tenchi, I told you, I know that wasn't really you that attacked me."
"I know Ayeka, it was only a dream. Well, I don't think I'll be getting any more sleep, I'm going to get dressed go and for a walk to clear my head."
Ayeka was still concerned about still concerned about Tenchi because of his dream. She wasn't sure if he would agree, but she decided to ask anyways, after all, she could stand to clear her head too.
"Tenchi...? Would you mind if I went with you? I... I'd like to clear my head too."
Tenchi was a little surprised, Ayeka was always too shy to ask to do much of anything with him, but he had no problem with the idea. Now that he thought about it, it would be nice to take a walk with her and not have anything hanging over his head like he did yesterday.
"That would be fine. I'll take my clothes and change in the bathroom again, can you get to your room on your own?"
"Yes, thank you Tenchi. I'll meet you downstairs, OK?"
"OK Ayeka, see you downstairs."
Both of them quickly got dressed and headed downstairs. As they left on their walk both were blushing again as Tenchi put his arm around Ayeka's waist to support her. Eventually their embarrassment wore off and they were able to have a normal conversation.
"Ayeka?"
"Yes Tenchi?"
"Umm... how do I put this? Why do you think someone would make me... attack you? I've been trying to figure it out, but if someone wanted to hurt you then why did they make me... do the other part of the attack too?"
Ayeka had also been thinking about that ever since Tenchi had told her that he was the attacker. In a way it made since, a child from them would be very powerful, but she had to admit that a child from Tenchi and Ryoko would be even more powerful. She blushed a little as she answered Tenchi.
"The only reason I can think of is because my... our child will be very powerful. The only flaw with that logic is that a child from you and Ryoko would probably be even more powerful."
"I guess that makes since, except for the part about Ryoko. I guess we'll have to talk to Washu about that, maybe she can tell us once she finds out who it is that controlled me."
Ayeka had been thinking about something else as well, though she was hesitant to bring it up now. She had already decided that she would keep the baby even before she knew it was Tenchi's, but now that she knew he was the father all sorts of complicated issues would come up if she were to go back to Jurai. It would have been bad enough if she brought back a bastard child, but since it was Tenchi's they knew who the father was and if they weren't married her father would be outraged. If her father found out about the attack even if they were married she shuddered to think at what he would do. No matter how much this all scared her though, she needed to talk to Tenchi about it.
"Tenchi, we need to talk about the baby. What... are your intentions?"
Tenchi had been somewhat dreading this particular conversation. He had already decided that he would be there for the baby as long as he could, but he knew, especially since Ayeka was a princess, that the issue of marriage would come up. He really wasn't sure what to do, he did care for Ayeka, but he still wasn't ready for his heart to choose who he was in love with. Although she hadn't come outright and told him to make a choice he understood her need to know what he intended to do about the situation he'd been forced into.
"I... don't exactly know Ayeka. I've already decided that I would be there for the baby as long as I'm able, but I still don't know who I'm in love with. I don't want to hurt you, but I don't want to be in a loveless marriage, the only thing I can promise is that I will try to make a decision soon, but that's not something that's easy to decide, it's a life choice."
"I... understand Tenchi. I don't want to force you to choose and I don't want to be trapped in a loveless marriage either. I've had to deal with enough suitors with false intentions to know that. You're the first person I've met that ever really treated me as a person, not a princess, that's part of the reason why I... love you Tenchi. I know that it may not seem like it with all the fights Ryoko and I have had, but I really do."
"I think I've known ever since I carried you home on my back that one day, I'm sorry I didn't consider your feelings before, it was all just such a shock with Ryoko coming from the cave, and then when you and Sasami came, and then Mihoshi at the hot springs. It turned my world upside down. Besides all of you being from outer space I had never really talked to girls before, and then you and Ryoko were suddenly fighting over me, it was really confusing. No matter what I decide though, I want you to know that you can always count on me, I'm not going to make anyone leave after I decide either, at the very least you're all my friends."
"I appreciate that Tenchi, but let's talk about something else, now I'm starting to stress out. Besides, it's almost breakfast time so we should head back."
"Wow, we've been out here for almost three hours. You're right though, we better head back."
Tenchi and Ayeka began discussing lighter topics as they headed back home. At the house the only person up so far was Sasami. She had woken up without either Ayeka or Tenchi there with her, but she wasn't worried, they could take care of themselves. She had decided to make Ayeka's favorite this morning and she was nearly done when her sister and Tenchi finally got back.
"Oh. There you two are, can you get everyone else, breakfast is almost ready."
"Sure Sasami, Ayeka, you sit down, I'll go get everyone."
"OK Tenchi."
Tenchi went around the house and got everyone to the table. The last person he had to get was his dad. When he knocked on his father's door he was told to come in. Nobuyuki was practically glaring at him when he came in.
"Close the door Tenchi, we need to have a talk."
"OK dad, this is about me yelling at Ryoko last night, isn't it?"
"Yes. Not only did you yell loud enough to wake everyone in the house, but you were also very cruel in what you said to her."
"I know dad, I already talked to her and apologized. If you can wait until we're all at the table I can explain better why I snapped."
"Well, since you did apologize to her already I suppose I can wait, lets go eat."
Tenchi and his father were the last to arrive for breakfast; even Washu was at the table. Nobuyuki took the head of the table while Tenchi took a seat between Ryoko and Ayeka. For once, he wasn't afraid of a fight breaking out, as he knew they both knew how important his announcement was. Everyone had a nice peaceful breakfast uninterrupted by fights or explosions. After the family was done eating Tenchi stood up to make his announcement.
"Everyone, I have something I have to tell you, Ayeka, Ryoko, and Washu already know, but I need to tell you too. Washu ran some tests on me and discovered a virus that targeted only me. We still don't know who created it, but what it did was take over my brain for a few minutes and allowed some sort of telepathic waves or something to control me. During the time I was controlled I was forced into being the one that attacked Ayeka. I really don't want to discuss this anymore right now, so please don't ask any questions."
"Actually Tenchi, I have one thing to add."
"What's that Washu?"
"We do know who the perpetrator is now, after running many scans on the virus I was able to find a pattern in it that only one person could have made. It's one of my old assistants, Yamato. He was even obsessed with creating the perfect warrior, so it makes sense."
"I've been meaning to ask you about that Washu. I kind of figured out the part about mine and Ayeka's child being powerful, but wouldn't a child between Ryoko and myself be more powerful?"
"If that were possible then yes, it would. But when I created Ryoko I didn't want her to go through what I did so I didn't give her the ability to conceive a child. Yamato knew this as well because he helped me come up with the initial idea for her. While it is possible for her to have children if I operate on her, he simply didn't have the ability or time to do it himself. That's probably why he had you attack Ayeka. Your child should be able to consciously call on the Wings of the Light Hawk by the time he or she is your age."
Everyone was stunned by the news about Ayeka's child, especially those who hadn't found out about the virus yesterday. Fortunately, the family respected Tenchi's wishes and didn't ask any questions. Everyone started there days relatively normally form there on. Washu went into her lab to do more research, Nobuyuki left for work, Sasami began cleaning with Ayeka's help, Mihoshi watched her favorite cartoon, Ryoko went to her rafter for a nap, Ryo-Ohki snuck in the kitchen to try to get a carrot and Tenchi decided to go work in the carrot fields.
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A/N: I hope you liked this chapter, next Tenchi will start to think about his feelings some more, Washu will start tracking Yamato, and there may be a surprise visit from a certain royal family (though I may do that the chapter after next). Please review and email, any ideas or criticisms are appreciated. Sorry for the long delay, school and all, you know? I hope the length makes up for it somewhat. My other story will probably take awhile to update, with this one I'm mostly winging it with an overall plot in mind; with 'Goodbye Isn't Forever' I'm planning an epic so I'm working on a detailed outline before I continue.
A/N: Last time we found out Tenchi was mind controlled into being the one that attacked Ayeka. He came to terms with Ayeka, but has yet to reveal this secret to the rest of the family.
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Sasami was getting worried; she had served dinner an hour ago and Tenchi and Ayeka still weren't back. She knew that Tenchi had probably found out who had attacked her sister and wanted to tell her in private, but she didn't think it would take this long. She was interrupted from her thoughts by the sound of the front door opening. Tenchi called out a greeting from the entryway.
"Is anyone around, sorry we're late for dinner!"
"I'm in the kitchen Tenchi, yours and Ayeka's dinner are both in the oven!"
Tenchi helped Ayeka to the kitchen. "Thanks a lot Sasami, I'm starving."
Sasami brought back two hot plates of food, which were quickly eaten by the two starving people. Tenchi helped Sasami clean up while Ayeka went upstairs to get ready for bed. As they were cleaning Sasami remembered what she'd been thinking earlier and asked Tenchi what he had talked to Ayeka about.
"Tenchi, do you know who the person that attacked Ayeka is now?"
Tenchi stiffened a little when Sasami asked her question. "Yes Sasami, but I won't tell you who it is right now, you'll have to wait till later."
Sasami was a little disappointed; she didn't like being left out of the loop, but she didn't press the issue. She and Tenchi quickly finished the clean up and headed upstairs to go to bed. She could tell that something was bothering Tenchi as they went upstairs, it probably had something to do with the attacker. Sasami quickly thought of a way to cheer him up.
"Tenchi, would it be all right if me and Ayeka slept in your room tonight? If you told her who the attacker was I don't think she or I will be getting very good sleep tonight, but we might sleep better in your room."
Tenchi was a little surprised by Sasami's suggestion. Although Sasami and Washu had both slept in his room a few times, he'd never allowed Ayeka or Ryoko to sleep in his room because of the problems it could cause. He decided to make an exception this time though because he knew that Sasami was right and also because he was sure he'd sleep better with Ayeka nearby so he could check on her more easily.
"Well, O.K. Sasami, I guess it would be all right. You and I will sleep on futons though, O.K.? Now that we know that Ayeka is pregnant I think she should start sleeping on a bed anyway."
Tenchi and Sasami went to their own rooms and got ready for bed. Sasami wasn't sure how her sister would react to the invitation to Tenchi's room, but with a little coaxing she was sure Ayeka would come. When she entered her room she saw her sister was already in her futon trying to sleep, it was obvious that sleep would be a long time coming tonight though; she just hoped sleeping in Tenchi's room really would work. Sasami approached Ayeka after she'd gotten ready for bed.
"Ayeka, are you still awake?"
"Yes Sasami, do you need a story tonight?"
"No, it's just that I asked Tenchi if we could sleep in his room tonight because I doubt either of us will get much sleep otherwise with the news you must have received today."
Ayeka blushed at the thought of sleeping in Tenchi's room, even if it were a separate bed. Fortunately, Sasami didn't see the blush because it was dark, so she couldn't tease her. Ayeka had already resigned herself to a sleepless night, but the thought of sleeping in Tenchi's room was comforting...
"Did he say it was alright?"
"Of course, he wants you to take the bed though."
Sasami knew her sister would be embarrassed to sleep in Tenchi's bed, but she hoped Ayeka wouldn't make a big deal about it; she agreed with Tenchi that Ayeka should have something softer to sleep on now.
Ayeka was even more embarrassed by the thought of not only sleeping in Tenchi's room, but also in his bed. She knew Tenchi was concerned about her but she didn't want to inconvenience him.
"I don't know about that Sasami, we'll discuss it when we get there, alright?"
Sasami had expected her sister to be stubborn, but she was sure Tenchi would be rather adamant considering her condition.
"OK Ayeka, we'll discuss it with Tenchi."
Meanwhile...
Tenchi had just finished getting into some PJ's and decided it was time to set up the futons. He went to his closet and pulled out the two that Washu and Sasami usually used. He always insisted that they take his bed, but they rarely accepted. This made him think of Ayeka's reaction; he was sure she would refuse the bed, but he was determined that she take it and he wasn't about to change his mind. As Tenchi was waiting for the two princesses his worst fear was realized, he heard the distinct sound of Ryoko teleporting into his room. She immediately wrapped her arms around him in one of her hugs. Sometimes he wondered if she had taken lessons from Misaki.
"Tenchiiii, where were you all day, hmmm?"
"Can't... breathe..."
Ryoko realized she was holding Tenchi a little too tightly and loosened her grip. Then she noticed the two futons he had set up. She knew that he never allowed her or Ayeka to stay in his room because of the potential for violence, he had said as much, but it still hurt that he let anyone else sleep in his room. For a moment jealousy seized her, even though she knew Sasami wouldn't take Tenchi from her, you never knew what to expect from the 'great' Washu.
"Tenchi, why are you letting Sasami and Washu sleep in your room again? It's not fair that I can't sleep in here too."
"Actually it's Sasami and Ayeka that are sleeping over..."
Tenchi realized his mistake right after the words came out of his mouth. 'Oh crap!!! Ryoko is NOT going to take this very well.' He tried to come up with some way to appease her, but nothing came to mind.
"WHAT?!!! Why are you letting that bitch stay in here when you still won't let me stay?!!! I want an explanation now!"
Although originally Tenchi had no idea how he would appease Ryoko, as soon as she called Ayeka a bitch Tenchi didn't really care. He didn't know why he suddenly felt so strongly about one of them calling the other names, after all, he usually stayed back whenever they fought before, but this time Ryoko had hit something deep inside him and he was angry beyond reason.
"How dare you call Ayeka that?! The only reason she's staying in here is because she's pregnant and until dad buys her a bed or Washu makes one, mine is the only one she can use! Besides which she's still pretty upset that she was attacked! If anyone here is a bitch then it's you! You're always starting fights with Ayeka and practically trying to rape me! You think the others are freeloaders but you don't even help around the house, let alone pay rent! If you want to stay here I suggest you get out of my sight and consider what I said."
Even through her initial anger Ryoko could hear the hurt in Tenchi's voice as he yelled at her. She had only called Ayeka a bitch, it wasn't even close to the worst she had ever called her rival before, but for some reason it had ignited anger in Tenchi she had never seen before, and the implications of his anger scared her, a lot. The only reason she could see that Tenchi would get so angry at her for something so simple was if... NO! There must be another explanation, he couldn't love Ayeka, there was no way! But the evidence was plain before her, he may not have said he loved her, but actions speak much louder than words, don't they? Once he finished his tirade she decided to take his advice, at least as far as disappearing went.
Once Tenchi had finished his rant, he went back over what he had said and was shocked. He had never yelled at any of the girls before, certainly not that viscously. He realized that he had probably lost his temper because of all the stress he'd had to deal with today, but that was still no excuse, he needed to find Ryoko to apologize to her before she did something drastic. As he opened his door to go find Ryoko he found Ayeka and Sasami standing there.
"Oh, uh... hi. I'll be right back, but I need to find Ryoko to apologize to her. You don't have to wait up for me but I should be back soon."
Ayeka didn't quite know how to take Tenchi going to apologize to Ryoko, let alone what he had been yelling. On the one hand, she was happy he had stood up for her for once, but at the same time, his uncharacteristic shouting, even if it was at Ryoko, kind of scared her. But no matter her rivalry with Ryoko, she agreed that Tenchi definitely did need to apologize to her.
"Do you want us to go back to our room? I'm sure it would help settle things with Ryoko."
"That's not necessary Ayeka, although what I said to Ryoko was out of anger, I still think that you should be sleeping in a bed from now on, OK? Hopefully Washu can make one for you soon."
"OK Tenchi, if that's what you think is best."
"It is, I'll try to be back soon."
With that Tenchi began his search for Ryoko. Although he doubted she would be in any of her usual places he still checked her room, the rafter, the roof and the rest of the house, but he still hadn't found her. Not that surprised he realized that she was probably somewhere outside, most likely her cave. He couldn't just go out in his PJs so he went back to his room to get changed.
"Tenchi? You're back already? Is Ryoko OK now?"
"I just need to change, she's not in the house so she's probably somewhere outside." Tenchi saw Ayeka start to get out of his bed in preparation to leave his room. "Now you stay there, I'll just take my clothes to the bathroom to change."
"Oh, OK Tenchi."
Tenchi quickly got what he needed and went to the bathroom. When he was finished changing he left the house at a jog and started calling out Ryoko's name when he entered the woods. When he was almost to the cave he saw an orange light coming from the entrance and knew where Ryoko was. He picked up his pace and ran to Ryoko, whom he found sobbing in the fetal position. Feeling even more ashamed for doing this to her he slowly approached her and spoke quietly to her.
"Ryoko... I am very, VERY sorry that I yelled at you and called you those... names. Please let me explain, I just had a very stressful day and when you came in I guess it was the proverbial straw the broke the camel's back."
Ryoko only barely registered what Tenchi said, still convinced that Tenchi was in love with Ayeka, and she was heartbroken over it. She did have to wonder what could have given Tenchi so much stress that he yelled at her like that though; sure, he usually got annoyed whenever she hugged him, but even then he had never yelled at her. Since Tenchi was here she was beginning to wonder if she had read his reaction correctly and though she wasn't sure she could forgive him just yet she was willing to hear him out. She slowly stopped sobbing; though there were still a few tears running down her cheeks, and sat up.
"What... what was so stressful about today Tenchi?"
Ryoko did realize that finding out who Ayeka's attacker was would be stressful to him, he did care about everyone in his household after all, but it shouldn't have stressed him as much as it had seemed to. She started having doubts again as she thought that the only reason he would be so stressed would be because he did indeed love Ayeka.
"It's because you love her... isn't it Tenchi?"
This caught Tenchi completely off guard. It was obvious Ryoko was talking about Ayeka, but where had she gotten the idea that he loved her? He cared about everyone in his new family of course, but he was sure that wasn't the type of love Ryoko meant. When he looked at it through Ryoko's eyes he could see where she might get that impression though; ever since the attack he had made an effort to help Ayeka out however he could, he had slept in the lab during her operation, and she might even have seen him take a walk with her today. When he said that Ayeka would be sleeping in his room tonight it must have been the last straw for Ryoko, especially considering his reaction to calling Ayeka a name. He was sure he would do the same thing for any of the girls if they had gone through something so horrible, wouldn't he? He still wasn't sure if he felt that way about any of the girls, though it was hard to tell so easily with Ryoko and Ayeka. None the less, he wasn't going to make a decision like that this second and he knew that the only way to clear things up with Ryoko would be to tell her what he had learned today. He had wanted to explain it to the rest of the family all at once so he wouldn't have to go through this a third time, but he also didn't want to see Ryoko so forlorn.
"I do care for her Ryoko, just as I care for all of you. I can't really say that I am in love with any of you right now. It really was a very stressful day for me today, it had to do with something I found out about concerning Ayeka's attack."
Although she was happy Tenchi hadn't confessed he was in love with Ayeka, Ryoko still had some lingering doubts, considering his actions; after all, what else could be so stressful to him about the attack on Ayeka?
"What did you find out Tenchi?"
"Well, first of all, let me tell you that since the attack I've been having a vivid nightmare about the attack, I saw everything that happened. I approached Washu about it this morning and she ran some tests on me to see if she could help. What she found out is that I had contracted a genetically engineered virus targeted only for me that was able to take control of me for a few minutes before it's effectiveness was diminished."
Ryoko most definitely did not like where this was leading. Sure, she could sympathize with being controlled against your will, but his reaction was starting to make more sense if she was right about what happened while he was controlled. Even if he wasn't in love with Ayeka, she would soon be under tremendous stress, and it was all because of him. She thought about how much she hated what Kagato had made her do to all those innocent people, and then thought about Tenchi. He was the most kind hearted person she knew, which was part of the reason why she loved him; after being forced to do what he did to someone he at least considers a friend he must not have known how to handle it. When she started yelling at him he must have finally found something to lash out at. She interrupted Tenchi before he had to say what she knew he most definitely did not want to.
"Tenchi, I think I understand now. It's because of that virus that Ayeka's pregnant, isn't it?"
Tenchi was a bit surprised that he was interrupted. He was also surprised by Ryoko's perceptiveness, he had never really thought about her as anything much more than a horny space pirate; yet, here she was actually being serious and not making any advances on him at all. She had even been able to figure out what had happened without him having to explain it, for which he was very grateful.
"Yes, that's right Ryoko. You see, when you came in my room earlier and then insulted Ayeka again I lost all reasoning. I've been trying to make sure she's all right ever since she got hurt, but with what I found out today I guess I feel a little over-protective. I'm really very sorry I hurt you Ryoko, I never meant to."
"I know Tenchi, I guess I did over-react a little though. I understand why you reacted the way you did now, I'm sorry I yelled at you."
"It's OK Ryoko, I should have told you before I went to bed, it's just that Sasami asked as we were all going to bed and I didn't know where you were."
"That's OK, It's not like I'm your keeper or something. By the way, when are you going to explain this to everyone else, they need to know too you know."
"Yes... I know. I'll probably tell them all at breakfast tomorrow. Goodnight Ryoko, I really need to get to bed."
"Goodnight Tenchi."
Tenchi hurried back to the house and changed in the bathroom again. He was glad he had straitened out things with Ryoko, but right now he really needed to get some sleep. He walked into his room quietly and put his clothes back away before stepping over to the futon he'd sleep in tonight. Both princesses were already asleep and he just watched them for a minute. Ayeka's breathing was slow and steady and she seemed almost perfectly content. Tenchi was glad she had gotten over her initial nervousness and was able to get some good sleep tonight. Tenchi caught himself staring at her and looked at Sasami. She was also asleep, but she was moving around in her futon, it seemed like she was having a nightmare. He could just barely make out some of the things she said.
"Ayeka... no... you.. Can't die...no... Tenchi... do something..."
Tenchi was a little worried about what she was saying, after all, she did have some sort of relationship with a goddess and she had had some rather detailed nightmares before, usually some part of them had come true sometime after she had them. Tenchi decided to wake her up so she might be able to get some more restful sleep after she calmed down. He moved over to her and shook her lightly.
"Sasami... wake up, it's just a bad dream."
Sasami woke up with a start, and, seeing Tenchi over her she enveloped him in a huge hug. She was crying a little as she relayed her dream to Tenchi.
"It was horrible Tenchi, I saw Ayeka die with everyone else just standing there, I tried to make you stop the bad man from hurting her, but you wouldn't move. Why wouldn't you try to save her? Why?"
Tenchi was a little disturbed as he listened to Sasami relate her dream to him. He hugged her and tried to comfort her, telling her it was only a dream, but at the same time he wondered just how much of this dream would come to be. He hoped that Sasami was just having a real nightmare for once rather than some sort of premonition. Sasami's crying and retelling of her dream must have woken Ayeka because he felt her hand on his shoulder as she kneeled next to him so she could comfort Sasami.
"Did you have another nightmare Sasami?"
Seeing her sister Sasami immediately went over to her and hugged her fiercely.
"Yes... I saw you die. There was a bad man and he just kept shocking you until you fell to the floor. Everyone else was just standing there and they wouldn't do anything! It was horrible!"
"Shhh... it's OK now, it was only a dream. I'm sure that everyone would never just stand there and watch one of us die, it was just a bad dream. Shhh..."
Ayeka had seen Sasami through many nightmares before and seen how so many of them came partly true. She was a little bit disturbed herself, but really, it was only a nightmare this time, right? Ayeka decided not to dwell on it and just comforted her sister until she finally calmed down.
"Let's all go to sleep now, we've disturbed Tenchi's rest enough as it is."
"No, that's OK Ayeka, I was happy to help with Sasami."
"That's not all I was talking about Tenchi, if we hadn't slept over than Ryoko wouldn't have gotten mad at you."
"That's OK Ayeka, I told Ryoko about the attacker, so she understands why I was under so much stress now. I think she even understands me letting you sleep in here. For now, let's all just get to sleep."
"Oh, OK Tenchi. Goodnight. Goodnight Sasami."
"Goodnight Ayeka, Sasami."
"Goodnight Tenchi. Goodnight Ayeka."
Finally, all three occupants of the young prince's room fell asleep. While the youngest of them was finally able to get some restful sleep, the other two weren't do lucky. Tenchi dreamed of telling everyone else what he had learned that day. After finally finishing his entire explanation everyone cried out for his execution, but worst of all, Ayeka agreed. Meanwhile, Ayeka was dreaming about the attack, which oddly enough, was the first time she had done so. She saw everything now, her walking around, then being knocked unconscious, and though she had only caught glimpses of the worst part of the attack as she drifted in and out of consciousness her imagination was more than up to the task of filling in the blanks. At about 4 in the morning, a scant six hours after they had finally gotten to sleep, both Tenchi and Ayeka finally awoke from their horrible dreams.
"Tenchi!"
"Ayeka!"
Although Tenchi had just woken up from a nightmare, and one concerning Ayeka no less, he pushed that aside as he rushed to Ayeka's side. He saw she was awake, but she was crying into a pillow and turned away from him. He sat down on the bed beside her and pulled her up into a hug. He stroked his fingers through her silky hair as he tried to soothe her.
"Shhh... Ayeka, it was only a dream, it's OK now... I'm here. It's OK... Shhh... It'll be all right, I'm right here, you don't need to worry."
Eventually Ayeka calmed down and came to her senses. For a moment she relished the feeling of just being in Tenchi's embrace, but then pulled reluctantly away. Even with the dream she had just had she still wasn't afraid of Tenchi, she knew he would never do anything like that if he were in control of himself.
"Thank you Tenchi. It's just... I had a dream that must have been quite similar to the one you told me about."
"You mean you dreamed about the attack? I'm sorry Ayeka, I can never say that enough times, but I am sorry."
"I know Tenchi, I told you I forgive you already. Umm... Tenchi? Why did you call out my name when you woke up?"
"Because I had a bad dream too. I dreamed about telling everyone what I learned about my role in the attack and they all turned on me. You... you even ordered my execution."
"I would never do that Tenchi, I told you, I know that wasn't really you that attacked me."
"I know Ayeka, it was only a dream. Well, I don't think I'll be getting any more sleep, I'm going to get dressed go and for a walk to clear my head."
Ayeka was still concerned about still concerned about Tenchi because of his dream. She wasn't sure if he would agree, but she decided to ask anyways, after all, she could stand to clear her head too.
"Tenchi...? Would you mind if I went with you? I... I'd like to clear my head too."
Tenchi was a little surprised, Ayeka was always too shy to ask to do much of anything with him, but he had no problem with the idea. Now that he thought about it, it would be nice to take a walk with her and not have anything hanging over his head like he did yesterday.
"That would be fine. I'll take my clothes and change in the bathroom again, can you get to your room on your own?"
"Yes, thank you Tenchi. I'll meet you downstairs, OK?"
"OK Ayeka, see you downstairs."
Both of them quickly got dressed and headed downstairs. As they left on their walk both were blushing again as Tenchi put his arm around Ayeka's waist to support her. Eventually their embarrassment wore off and they were able to have a normal conversation.
"Ayeka?"
"Yes Tenchi?"
"Umm... how do I put this? Why do you think someone would make me... attack you? I've been trying to figure it out, but if someone wanted to hurt you then why did they make me... do the other part of the attack too?"
Ayeka had also been thinking about that ever since Tenchi had told her that he was the attacker. In a way it made since, a child from them would be very powerful, but she had to admit that a child from Tenchi and Ryoko would be even more powerful. She blushed a little as she answered Tenchi.
"The only reason I can think of is because my... our child will be very powerful. The only flaw with that logic is that a child from you and Ryoko would probably be even more powerful."
"I guess that makes since, except for the part about Ryoko. I guess we'll have to talk to Washu about that, maybe she can tell us once she finds out who it is that controlled me."
Ayeka had been thinking about something else as well, though she was hesitant to bring it up now. She had already decided that she would keep the baby even before she knew it was Tenchi's, but now that she knew he was the father all sorts of complicated issues would come up if she were to go back to Jurai. It would have been bad enough if she brought back a bastard child, but since it was Tenchi's they knew who the father was and if they weren't married her father would be outraged. If her father found out about the attack even if they were married she shuddered to think at what he would do. No matter how much this all scared her though, she needed to talk to Tenchi about it.
"Tenchi, we need to talk about the baby. What... are your intentions?"
Tenchi had been somewhat dreading this particular conversation. He had already decided that he would be there for the baby as long as he could, but he knew, especially since Ayeka was a princess, that the issue of marriage would come up. He really wasn't sure what to do, he did care for Ayeka, but he still wasn't ready for his heart to choose who he was in love with. Although she hadn't come outright and told him to make a choice he understood her need to know what he intended to do about the situation he'd been forced into.
"I... don't exactly know Ayeka. I've already decided that I would be there for the baby as long as I'm able, but I still don't know who I'm in love with. I don't want to hurt you, but I don't want to be in a loveless marriage, the only thing I can promise is that I will try to make a decision soon, but that's not something that's easy to decide, it's a life choice."
"I... understand Tenchi. I don't want to force you to choose and I don't want to be trapped in a loveless marriage either. I've had to deal with enough suitors with false intentions to know that. You're the first person I've met that ever really treated me as a person, not a princess, that's part of the reason why I... love you Tenchi. I know that it may not seem like it with all the fights Ryoko and I have had, but I really do."
"I think I've known ever since I carried you home on my back that one day, I'm sorry I didn't consider your feelings before, it was all just such a shock with Ryoko coming from the cave, and then when you and Sasami came, and then Mihoshi at the hot springs. It turned my world upside down. Besides all of you being from outer space I had never really talked to girls before, and then you and Ryoko were suddenly fighting over me, it was really confusing. No matter what I decide though, I want you to know that you can always count on me, I'm not going to make anyone leave after I decide either, at the very least you're all my friends."
"I appreciate that Tenchi, but let's talk about something else, now I'm starting to stress out. Besides, it's almost breakfast time so we should head back."
"Wow, we've been out here for almost three hours. You're right though, we better head back."
Tenchi and Ayeka began discussing lighter topics as they headed back home. At the house the only person up so far was Sasami. She had woken up without either Ayeka or Tenchi there with her, but she wasn't worried, they could take care of themselves. She had decided to make Ayeka's favorite this morning and she was nearly done when her sister and Tenchi finally got back.
"Oh. There you two are, can you get everyone else, breakfast is almost ready."
"Sure Sasami, Ayeka, you sit down, I'll go get everyone."
"OK Tenchi."
Tenchi went around the house and got everyone to the table. The last person he had to get was his dad. When he knocked on his father's door he was told to come in. Nobuyuki was practically glaring at him when he came in.
"Close the door Tenchi, we need to have a talk."
"OK dad, this is about me yelling at Ryoko last night, isn't it?"
"Yes. Not only did you yell loud enough to wake everyone in the house, but you were also very cruel in what you said to her."
"I know dad, I already talked to her and apologized. If you can wait until we're all at the table I can explain better why I snapped."
"Well, since you did apologize to her already I suppose I can wait, lets go eat."
Tenchi and his father were the last to arrive for breakfast; even Washu was at the table. Nobuyuki took the head of the table while Tenchi took a seat between Ryoko and Ayeka. For once, he wasn't afraid of a fight breaking out, as he knew they both knew how important his announcement was. Everyone had a nice peaceful breakfast uninterrupted by fights or explosions. After the family was done eating Tenchi stood up to make his announcement.
"Everyone, I have something I have to tell you, Ayeka, Ryoko, and Washu already know, but I need to tell you too. Washu ran some tests on me and discovered a virus that targeted only me. We still don't know who created it, but what it did was take over my brain for a few minutes and allowed some sort of telepathic waves or something to control me. During the time I was controlled I was forced into being the one that attacked Ayeka. I really don't want to discuss this anymore right now, so please don't ask any questions."
"Actually Tenchi, I have one thing to add."
"What's that Washu?"
"We do know who the perpetrator is now, after running many scans on the virus I was able to find a pattern in it that only one person could have made. It's one of my old assistants, Yamato. He was even obsessed with creating the perfect warrior, so it makes sense."
"I've been meaning to ask you about that Washu. I kind of figured out the part about mine and Ayeka's child being powerful, but wouldn't a child between Ryoko and myself be more powerful?"
"If that were possible then yes, it would. But when I created Ryoko I didn't want her to go through what I did so I didn't give her the ability to conceive a child. Yamato knew this as well because he helped me come up with the initial idea for her. While it is possible for her to have children if I operate on her, he simply didn't have the ability or time to do it himself. That's probably why he had you attack Ayeka. Your child should be able to consciously call on the Wings of the Light Hawk by the time he or she is your age."
Everyone was stunned by the news about Ayeka's child, especially those who hadn't found out about the virus yesterday. Fortunately, the family respected Tenchi's wishes and didn't ask any questions. Everyone started there days relatively normally form there on. Washu went into her lab to do more research, Nobuyuki left for work, Sasami began cleaning with Ayeka's help, Mihoshi watched her favorite cartoon, Ryoko went to her rafter for a nap, Ryo-Ohki snuck in the kitchen to try to get a carrot and Tenchi decided to go work in the carrot fields.
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A/N: I hope you liked this chapter, next Tenchi will start to think about his feelings some more, Washu will start tracking Yamato, and there may be a surprise visit from a certain royal family (though I may do that the chapter after next). Please review and email, any ideas or criticisms are appreciated. Sorry for the long delay, school and all, you know? I hope the length makes up for it somewhat. My other story will probably take awhile to update, with this one I'm mostly winging it with an overall plot in mind; with 'Goodbye Isn't Forever' I'm planning an epic so I'm working on a detailed outline before I continue.