TR Act 4 Continued.

Scene 3 – Living Legends

{Ayeka sits across a finely carved table from Azusa II as the ruler strokes his beard in thought.  At the princess's side, Sagami stands, a concern in his eyes.  With the emperor, a middle-aged Juraian lady sits, her face concealed by an ornate fan.  This woman's chartreuse hair claws around her persimmon eyes, extending to a long ponytail behind her head.  Dressed in a most regal kimono, she eyes Ayeka quietly and thoroughly.  Behind Azusa II and this lady, Azaka stands attentive, listening to his master's words.}

Azusa II:  Then, you believe this ship and its crew pose a direct threat to Jurai?

{The princess nods.}

Ayeka:  I do, my emperor.  As I have stated, there were rooms filled with mechanized personnel in addition to the combatants we faced.

Azusa II:  And one in particular was a Ryoan man, declaring himself an “enemy of Jurai”.

Ayeka:  Indeed, and a “priest of Ryua” as well.

{The green-haired lady waves her fan slightly, her eyes glancing to the emperor.  His eyes blink and meet Ayeka's as he questions her.}

Azusa II:  What of the three you recovered from the ship?

Ayeka:  I believe the huntress Nagi not to be directly involved.  She has a reputation for working alone with a singular interest in chasing Ryoko.

{She thinks back to seeing Pii for the first time.  He stood near his damaged ship on the island of Manhattan some months ago.  His weapon had lowered from discharging at a vessel which had been hostile to Ayeka's party, as well as to himself.  This image mingles with the venomous smile and emerald glow in his eyes he displayed battling Ryoko on Liaens's ship.}

Ayeka:  The other hunter, Will Pii, aided us during the incident on Manhattan Island within the past year.  He too had a singular interest in his quarry at the time, Mecha-Nerti.  Further, when he fought Ryoko on this enemy vessel, he spoke in unison with this “Kimitan” and the other person we recovered, Nerti Ro.

{She nods to herself.}

Ayeka:  As Ryoko stated, “Kimitan” seems to have the ability to manipulate the minds of others.  It is likely that both were not involved of their own free will, just as Ryoko became violent here at the palace.

{The lady turns her eyes slyly to Ayeka while Azusa II adds.}

Azusa II:  I see.  Did any of the group seem to be in authority over the others?

{Ayeka considers for a moment before she nods.}

Ayeka:  “Kimitan” seemed to be, though there seemed to be some dissent with Oniko.

{The emperor's brows rise slightly.}

Azusa II:  Oh?  How so?

Ayeka:  He tried to reason Ryoko to join him of her free will, claiming she was “important to all of this”.  He stated that the methods of “Kimitan” were “wrong”, emphasizing that their plans were for their “kind”.

{He acknowledges this.}

Azusa II:  I would then assume their “kind” would be the Ryoan people.

Ayeka:  As would I, my emperor.

{The emperor then turns to the lady at his side, but Ayeka interjects.}

Ayeka:  However, my emperor...

{Both turn to her as she continues.}

Ayeka:  I do not believe this is an action on the part of the planet Ryua.

{His eyes narrow at her while Sagami and Azaka also focus their attention on her.}

Azusa II:  What is your reasoning for that claim?

Ayeka:  It was the words of the metamorphic being.  She stated that Jurai has many enemies, some even from within.

{Sagami lowers his eyes, considering this as Azaka furrows his brows in thought.  The lady's eyes narrow coldly when the princess continues.}

Ayeka:  Further, the hunter Pii said that they sent the chimera creature Illirg and the machine Mecha-Nerti to Manhattan eight months ago.  If he was truly controlled, I assume his words were from “Kimitan”.

{Azusa II weaves his fingers together as he considers these words.  Ayeka shakes her head, her voice worried.}

Ayeka:  My emperor, I fear that this problem may be far larger than we now realize.

{A moment passes while the emperor strokes his beard again, considering the evidence before him.  A tone comes from a door behind Ayeka and Sagami.  Without raising his head, the ruler commands to the door.}

Azusa II:  Come.

{Sliding aside, the door reveals the grave figures of Tenchi, Ryoko, and Kamidake.  The young prince and knight both bow respectfully to the emperor as the legendary fighter speaks.}

Kamidake:  My emperor, we bring news of great importance.

{Azusa II nods and waves inside.}

Azusa II:  Very well.  Speak your mind, sir knight.

{The three enter, the door shutting behind them.  Tenchi and Ryoko join Sagami at Ayeka's side, the Terran native resting his hand on the princess's shoulder.  She smiles warmly as he whispers to her ear.}

Tenchi:  Sorry we're late, Ayeka.

{She accepts this.}

Ayeka:  It's alright.  What has happened?

{Tenchi sighs and answers with a motion to Kamidake, who faces the emperor and his companion.}

Kamidake:  My lord, Lady Nagi has identified the enemy without question, a familiar one thought vanquished some time ago.

{Azaka blinks oddly at his younger counterpart while the world's ruler inquires.}

Azaka:  Whom do you mean, knight?

{With a quickly glance to his azure partner, he answers plainly.}

Kamidake:  The Great Liaens has returned from the dead.

{Quizzical looks cross the faces of the emperor, the princess, and the young captain.  The elder knight's incredulous expression demands answers from his crimson warrior.  However, the lady at the emperor's side merely listens, her eyes set on this messenger.}

Azusa II:  Who is this “Liaens”?  I am not familiar with that name in the least.

{Azaka steps forward, answering for his compatriot.}

Azaka:  He is an old foe, one we had defeated and thought dead in the days of the first court.

{Kamidake nods.}

Kamidake:  He lives, evidently part of this cabal now threatening us.

Azaka:  How do you know this?

Kamidake:  Lady Nagi and her small companion showed him to us.

{The scene fades back to the infirmary, where Nagi lays with Ryo-Ohki and Ken-Ohki near.  Tenchi, Ryoko, Kamidake, and Tensho sit around her when the young knight leans forward, speaking softly and respectfully.}

Kamidake:  Lady Nagi, I know that you need your rest to recuperate, but I must ask.  Is there any information you could give regarding your attackers?

{Tiredly, Nagi closes her eyes and takes a breath, settling her thoughts on the recent past.}

Nagi:  There isn't much I can tell, knight.

{He nods.}

Kamidake:  I realize, but anything would be useful.

{She concurs.}

Nagi:  Yes...  The woman in my mind, the one with the flaring hair and green eyes...

{Ryoko nods, her eyes narrowing hatefully.}

Ryoko:  “Kimitan”...

Kamidake:  Yes, we know of her.  Were there any others?

{Nagi nods.}

Nagi:  Yes, the tall man from the bar...  He called himself “Liaens”.

{Kamidake's eyes widen at this while the others turn to him surprised by his reaction.}

Tenchi:  You know him, Kamidake?

{Refocusing, the crimson knight asks again.}

Kamidake:  Again, I am sorry, Lady Nagi, but can you describe this man?

Nagi:  I can do better.

{She glances to Ken-Ohki.}

Nagi:  Show him, Ken-Ohki.

{The white cabbit acknowledges this order as he turns to the others.  His yellow gem shimmers as it projects a three-dimensional image of Liaens standing between Tenchi and Kamidake.  Ryoko nods and scowls at the projection while Kamidake's eyes blink in recognition and surprise.}

Ryoko:  That's the bastard from the bar, alright.

{The legendary soldier settles his eyes on the image as the scene fades back to the briefing room.  To Azaka, Kamidake continues.}

Kamidake:  He was older and carried technological support, but he was the same man we once fought.

{The azure knight shakes his head.}

Azaka:  No doubt, given his previous intent, he is the leader of this syndicate.

{Ayeka inquires from the two warriors.}

Ayeka:  Pardon my ignorance, Azaka, but who is this Liaens?  I do not recall him from any of the legends or histories of Jurai.

{The two knights exchange a glance before both turn seriously to the assembled people.}

Azaka:  Princess, had Fate been different, you would have never heard his name.

Kamidake:  He was an enemy who threatened your ancestor, King Jurai Sho I, the first king of Jurai.

Azaka:  It is a legend you all know well, though the generations have left it without names or deeds.

{The scene fades to the throne room of the Jurai palace, where the floor rises in a terraced fashion to the throne high above.  Pillars mark a path from the grand doors to the base of this imperial seat within an epic chamber, worthy of a historic ruler.  Upon the throne sits a man dressed in a blend of what would come to be Juraian regalia and military dress, his chest and collar covered in pins and accolades.  Deep, regal violet hair falls around his head, darkening to near black at the edges.  His purple eyes open and gaze upon the throne room, his sight quiet and thoughtful.}

Azaka:  Before him, Jurai had been ruled by a Holy Council, which still survives today as the legislative branch of the imperial government.  However, it was during the war with Ryua that this man, Jurai Sho, came to prominence.

Kamidake:  He was the commander general of the effort, bravely leading our soldiers into battle.  At his side was Lady Aki, head of covert operations, and his one true love.  The two married during the war, and conceived a daughter, Jurai Achi.

{The massive doors swing open as a teenage girl enters the grand chamber, her face smiling brightly to the ruler above.  Her pinkish eyes settle on her father, King Jurai Sho, framed by her silvery-blue hair, which is tied in a single ponytail behind her and extends to the floor.}

Azaka:  Throughout the war, King Sho and Lady Aki brought our struggle to Ryua.  Under their instruction was the first fleet admiral, Juraihelm Saito, known for his great loyalty and dedication.  He even taught his daughters the sword to fight alongside their brothers.  Between the three of them, victory was ours.

{From the throne, Sho stands and smiles down to his daughter, his eyes kind and just.  Near the base of the towering structure, Azaka and Kamidake stand on opposite sides of the path, their gentle expressions extended to the first princess as well.  However, these two knights do not carry their trademark staff weapons, though dressed much the same as in the modern era.}

Kamidake:  We too fought in that great war.  Azaka had been a warrior, and when I came of age, I became his apprentice, and later his partner.  The war waged for over a decade before it ended, and eventually took the life of Lady Aki.

Azaka:  She was leading an insurgence mission through the Great Divide, a treacherous region of space which then was along the engagement zone with Ryua.  Now, the battleground is known as Sargasso, the starship graveyard.

{Achi approaches the throne while Sho stands and descends the steps, meeting her and his two loyal knights.}

Kamidake:  After the war, King Sho was crowned the first king of Jurai, establishing the first royal court of the Jurai Empire.  Princess Achi thus became the first princess of the royal family, and heir to her father's throne.

Azaka:  King Sho also honored Kamidake and myself, dubbing us his two knights and protectors of his only daughter for our deeds and loyalty during the war.  Admiral Saito also became supreme commander of Jurai's military, second only to the emperor himself.

{The scene shifts to Achi combing her unbound lengths of hair before a body-length mirror.  The room itself is decorated in elegant floral reliefs, even her mirror and canopied bed carved from the wood native to Jurai.  Morning sunlight beams in from her open window, the breeze turning the pages of a book on her nightstand.  She hums a soft tune to herself as she smooths her straight hair.}

Kamidake:  The following years were kind to Jurai after the war, bringing us several years of peace.  Princess Achi grew into a fine young woman and scholar, particularly of the holy writings of our time.

{The breeze then falls cold, causing Achi to hold her arms and shiver before a creak issues from her window.  She turns around to see a cloaked figure glare back at her.  Perched much like a bird on her windowsill, the man raises his head, revealing himself to be a younger Liaens.  His brown eyes still bear the cross-shaped iris, but his beard is far shorter and close to his chin.  His body and clothing are also free of the golden circuitry seen in his modern incarnation.  Achi rises as he hops down into her room and raises his hand to her.  The same earthen-colored energy gathers at his hand, aimed at her.}

Azaka:  That is when the self-proclaimed “Great Liaens” first appeared, kidnapping Princess Achi from her chambers within the palace.

{Later in the throne room, Azaka and Kamidake lower their heads as Sho's tormented face reads a note in his hand, the Juraiji of a ransom demand clearly written on the page.}

Kamidake:  He wanted no less than the unconditional surrender of the Jurai crown to him and his world, Prora, in exchange for the life of Princess Achi.

Azaka:  We knew nothing of him, his race, or his world, even with the inclusion of Ryua's records.  Further, our investigation revealed nothing of how he took the princess from the palace.

{The king's hand grips tightly, crushing the note as his eyes burn with righteous anger.}

Kamidake:  Commander Saito sent his men across Jurai's holdings, finding nothing.

{Sho glances back over his shoulder, noting a cloaked figure in the shadow of the throne.}

Azaka:  However, we did have outside assistance in Angelbane duSoleil.

Kamidake:  He was a man from a world apart from the empire who had periodically given us helpful information during the war with Ryua.

{The scene fades to a forest of Jurai's trees, where the young Liaens stands with a small troupe of soldiers behind him.  Each of his men also shares the cross-shaped pupil that he has, their combat armor composed of bladed plates.  Flanking the villain, two particular men stand, each with a sword sheathed at his side.  Liaens himself has two large swords scabbarded on his back.}

{A distance away, Sho, Azaka, and Kamidake step out from the tree-line.  Here, the two knights carry their now trademark staves while the king's hand holds the hilt of Tenchiken.  Two rings of similar composition to the famed staves and sword hilt encircle the ruler's shoulders.  On each ring, a violet crest like the tsuba of Tenchiken glints in the light filtering through the leaves.  The crest attached to his right shoulder is identical to the emblem upon Ayeka's tiara.}

Azaka:  While he searched for the princess, King Sho met with Liaens and his guards as intended.

{Liaens grins to himself, but his eyes widen in surprise when Tenchiken's blue blade ignites, as do the crests on the two items on the king's shoulders.  Likewise, the two staves flare with blue and red power as the three Juraian men charge the enemy.}

Azaka:  However, we were not about to hand over Jurai without incident.

{Some time later, Liaens's men lay dead upon the ground, strewn amongst fallen trees and settling dust.  Sho stands firm, pointing Tenchiken down toward Liaens.  The Juraian king carries many open cuts and deep wounds, staining his regal clothes red.  Liaens lies on his back, blood coughing up from his lips as well as soaking his proud robes.  Nearby, Azaka bears Kamidake's weight on his shoulders, the younger knight holding an injury through his side.  The scarlet warrior raises his head purposefully to gaze at the defeated enemy.  His azure counterpart also has wounds through his shoulder and arm, no doubt painful holding his partner.  Nearby, the Liaens's two blade-masters lie lifeless, their bodies torn much like the two Juraian knights.}

Kamidake:  Azaka and I were badly wounded in the fighting, but the king was victorious.

{Liaens coughs again when a grin comes to his lips.  Sho narrows his eyes as the enemy rests his hand on his belt, a finger depressing a key found there.  A haze of light envelops Liaens as he fades from sight.  Sho scowls as he thrusts Tenchiken down into the vanishing villain.  Yet, unharmed, Liaens's continues to laugh until he completely departs the battleground.}

Kamidake:  But, it seems that the enemy was also prepared for his defeat.

{At this, Azaka falls to his knees, as does Kamidake.  The king spins back to them, watching Kamidake's eyes glaze and his consciousness wane.  The blue blade vanishes as he rushes to their side.  Azaka rests a hand on his master's shoulder and shakes his head.}

Azaka:  However, other concerns took priority over chasing the villain any farther.

{Returning to the modern briefing room, the two knights turn to the current emperor, Azusa II, and conclude their story.}

Azaka:  King Sho placed Kamidake and myself into stasis, meant originally for the two of us to heal.

Kamidake:  However, the technology in our era could not regenerate our wounds efficiently.  It would be many decades before we would be able to leave.

{The azure knight's eyes close somberly as he nods.}

Azaka:  That is why we agreed to be sealed away, until such time as Jurai would need us again.

Kamidake:  The story of our battle with Liaens became our legend.

{He motions to Tenchi and Ayeka.}

Kamidake:  The same that led Lord Yosho to revive us in this era.  The battleground became our tomb, the Sacred Place of Jurai.  Since then, other great soldiers have been buried on its grounds for generations.  Princess Achi was recovered by our ally and continued the ruling line.

{Sagami holds his chin in thought, considering the information given here while Ryoko advances a step, confusion evident in her face.}

Ryoko:  Okay, so if this Liaens guy was some old enemy of Jurai, what's it got to do with me, or Nagi?

{Ayeka agrees.}

Ayeka:  Yes, and what is his purpose for his return?

Azaka:  I am not certain, princess.  This could be another attempt at conquering Jurai, or perhaps simple revenge.

Sagami:  And, there's also a Ryoan interest in this.

{Tenchi folds his arms, recalling the foes aboard Liaens's ship.}

Tenchi:  What about the other two, “Kimitan” and the shape-shifter?

{Ayeka glances to Tenchi and shakes her head.}

Ayeka:  We have too little information to really grasp their purpose, Tenchi.  There is far too much we don't know about this situation.

{The lady at Azusa II's side taps her hand on the table, causing a translucent panel to appear before her.  On it, an image of Oniko appears alongside information on his past.  Also, with a tap of her finger, a second panel materializes with an image and history for Nerti.  With another tap, the display of Oniko's data changes to an image of Nagi with her medical charts.  Her eyes narrow before they turn to Ryoko while Sagami adds.}

Sagami:  Considering that Liaens and Oniko are both known to be enemies of Jurai, it is likely that Jurai would be their primary target.

Ryoko:  So, the other two might be mercs?

{The green-haired lady closes her fan, revealing a mature elegance in her face as she speaks.}

Lady:  This is all simply speculation based on what little facts you have.

{The room all turn to her when Ryoko scowls toward this Juraian woman.}

Ryoko:  And, who are you?  You've just been sitting there this whole time.

{Azusa II clears his voice and answers for her, his voice stern.}

Azusa II:  She is Lady Kamiki Seto, chairwoman of the Holy Council, and my top adviser.  You should give her respect.

{The Ryoan woman glances to the emperor and then back to the chairwoman, who closes her eyes and adds.}

Seto:  Lady Ayeka is correct in that we need more information about the enemy before we can truly understand their motives.

{Her scarlet eyes open and settle on Ryoko's.}

Seto:  Which is what you should uncover, Ryua Ryoko.

{Confusion wipes through the faces of the others as Seto nods and continues.}

Seto:  As I understand from Nagi's charts, you were instrumental in reviving her via your telepathic connection to your bonded companion, Ryo-Ohki, as well as her connection to Ken-Ohki.

{Ryoko's expression grows cold.}

Ryoko:  What of it?

Seto:  It seems that Nerti Ro is native to the world Pentinon, whose people share many racial characteristics to Ryua's people.  In particular, the medical databases state that the nervous structure of both races is nearly identical.

{A chill rushes down the cyan-maned woman's spine, understanding Seto's implication.}

Seto:  I believe you could rout the agenda of Liaens and his people from her mind, just as you did your half-sister.

{Ryoko's lips curl at this, her distaste palpable.}

Ryoko:  I don't think so.  What I did for Nagi was between me and her.  I've had enough of screwing around with that green-eyed bitch's work.  Besides, don't you have ways to do that yourself?

{Seto nods, adding.}

Seto:  We do, but not with a very high success rate.  At present, it is more likely that you would have more success.

{The young woman scoffs and folds her arms.}

Ryoko:  Well, sorry.  I'm not diving into anyone else's head.

{The closed fan in the councilwoman's hand twirls as she answers plainly.}

Seto:  This is not a request.

{Shock issues through the faces of Tenchi, Ayeka, and Sagami as the mature Juraian woman explains.}

Seto:  You are a citizen of the Jurai Empire, Ryua Ryoko, born on member-world Ryua.  You are subject to the edicts of the Holy Council and the emperor, just like any other.

{Hate boils in Ryoko's scowl while even Azaka and Kamidake blink in disbelief at her words.}

Seto:  You have been free with your speech for much of your life, but you should choose your next few words very carefully.

{Her scarlet eyes turn to the fan's tip and watch it twirl, her speech plain and calm.}

Seto:  Because of your help against Kagato and Kain, we allowed the acquittal of your crimes by the Galaxy Police, as well as your breaking of the ancient edicts against Ryua.

{Confusion crosses Tenchi's eyes as he turns to Ryoko.  Seto eyes Tenchi for a moment, noting his expression.}

Seto:  I see the young prince is not familiar with this.

{Tenchi turns to her and inquires while Ayeka and Sagami lower their eyes in a silent acceptance.}

Tenchi:  What are you talking about?

Seto:  No doubt, you have noticed that only Ryoko seems to carry some unique abilities:  flight, crimson light, teleportation, and the like.

{Tenchi nods, issuing a slight grin from the councilwoman's lips.  Ryoko's fists gather tightly as she glares down at the Juraian woman.}

Seto:  Since Ryua's defeat during the first court of Jurai, King Sho issued the edict that all Ryoans be stripped of those powers, that they may never again pose a threat to Jurai.

{The young prince blinks in surprise at this, his eyes turning to Azaka and Kamidake, who quietly acknowledge this as truth.  He turns back to Seto, questioning again.}

Tenchi:  Then, Washu...?

{Seto sighs and adds.}

Seto:  She is a special case.  Their planetary priesthood were allowed their abilities for cultural purposes, and select scientific personnel were as well, to study the energy type.

{Her fan then points toward Ryoko, whose fists shake involuntarily at this action.}

Seto:  However, she was once a pirate, and like them, has ignored the laws requiring them to comply.

{A twisted glee edges into the Juraian's eyes.}

Seto:  That is why they hide, striking in the night, lest we capture them and take away those gifts.

{She opens her fan and masks her lower face again, her eyes closing nonchalantly as she concludes.}

Seto:  We have been kind enough to let you enjoy your powers, Ryoko, so you should not be so ungrateful as to refuse this... small request.

{Hate fumes in Ryoko as she bites her lip, stopping herself from speaking the venom she would otherwise openly spew at this Juraian noble.  Azaka steps forward and shakes his head seriously.}

Azaka:  What you say may be true, Lady Seto, but such a command to a citizen can only be given by the emperor himself.

{Seto blinks and glances to the emperor, her eyes narrow and sly.  Ayeka's eyes open wide as she hears the councilwoman's voice echoing in her mind.}

Seto:  ... This is needed...  They are enemies of the state...  It is her civic duty...

{The emperor's eyes glaze for a moment, unnoticed by the others before they clear.  The ruler nods and speaks.}

Azusa II:  I am afraid I must agree with Lady Seto.  This is needed.

{He faces Ryoko and continues.}

Azusa II:  It is your civic duty, Ryua Ryoko, to aid us against these enemies of Jurai.

{Sagami stand with Tenchi as they both turn aghast to the emperor.}

Sagami:  My emperor!

Tenchi:  You can't be serious!

{Azusa II nods before resting a couple fingers on his temple, massaging the area.}

Azusa II:  I am.

Sagami:  But, she's a civilian, sire.  She's not qualified for a military intelligence operation like this.

{Seto fans herself as her voice again slips through Ayeka's mind.}

Seto:  ... Or, her sister could...

{Azusa II's eyes blink as he is silent for a moment.  Then, they reopen with his retort.}

Azusa II:  If not her, then Nagi could do this in her place.  She has similar telepathy and is of Juraian blood.

{Kamidake steps forward, his head shaking at this implication.}

Kamidake:  My emperor!

{However, Ayeka's eyes stay fixed on Seto, who turns her gaze back to the princess.  Once again, the chairwoman's voice sounds in the princess's mind.}

Seto:  ... Why is she looking at...?

{Surprised, Seto's eyes blink while Ryoko speaks through her clenched teeth.}

Ryoko:  Fine!

{All turn to her as she turns away from the group, her eyes closed.}

Ryoko:  I'll do it.

{Worried, Ayeka rises to her feet at Tenchi's side as he whispers to the Ryoan woman.}

Tenchi:  Ryoko...

{She lowers her arms as she speaks firmly.}

Ryoko:  Just let Nagi rest, alright?

{Azusa II nods and confirms this.}

Azusa II:  You have my word.

{With this, Ryoko phases through the door.  Tenchi scowls and spins back to the emperor and councilwoman, his words heated.}

Tenchi:  She just got her sister back, and you...!!

{Sagami nods and joins Tenchi in his anger.}

Sagami:  Sire, I don't understand this move.  It's...!

{Azusa II eyes Sagami and shakes his head.}

Azusa II:  You, captain, have no place to question my authority.  You are hereby ordered back to your ship and to prepare it for battle, along with the rest of the fleet.

{Stiffly, the young captain bows and accepts this, his voice tense.}

Sagami:  Yes, my emperor.

{He turns to the door, and as the door slides aside, Tenchi follows him.  Azusa II calls to him.}

Azusa II:  And, what of you, Masaki Tenchi?

{Without facing the emperor, the young prince answers coldly.}

Tenchi:  I'm going to make sure Ryoko's alright.

{Ayeka rests her hand on Tenchi's shoulder, drawing his attention.  She nods gently, her concern apparent as well.}

Ayeka:  I will join you.

Tenchi:  Thanks, Ayeka.

{Azusa II shakes his head.}

Azusa II:  We should plan for Liaens's possible incursion on Jurai.  Both of you should be involved.

{Tenchi exits through the door as he replies.}

Tenchi:  Ryoko's involved too, and important as well.

{Ayeka nods, looking back to the emperor.}

Ayeka:  My emperor, Oniko stated she was important to this event.  It would be prudent for us to be certain of her condition.

{Tenchi blinks and turns to Ayeka as the emperor considers this, stroking his beard.  He then nods with a sigh.}

Azusa II:  Very well, Lady Ayeka.

{The princess smiles softly back to Tenchi who mirrors her expression with a low whisper.}

Tenchi:  Thanks again, Ayeka.

{As they leave, Ayeka takes another anxious glance at Seto, who narrows her eyes in reply.  Azaka and Kamidake both exchange gazes, their expressions relating their own silent displeasure at the happenings here.}