*Disclaimer: The main characters in this story are property of AIC, Pioneer, & Viz Comics. All the other characters were created by me, so any similarities are just dumb luck so please don't sue me.

** Author's notes: This story takes place about a year after "Tenchi Forever" in which it follows the "Tenchi Universe" storyline, though some names and places from the OAV and manga might appear. C & C is welcomed, but remember, this is my first fanfic, so easy on the flame throwing!

The Trial: by alighthawk

Chapter Nine - "Pirate Confessions"

ODESSO PERFECTURE, PLANET TRILLIAN PRIME...

An hour had passed since detectives Kiyone and Mihoshi found Cullen the space pirate who was a close confidante of Ryoko from their pirating days. After their shaky first contact, Cullen took a liking to the girls and decided to help them out in trying to apprehend the culprit who was responsible in setting up the cyan space pirate. Quietly they left Odesso in order to reach their next destination: Cullen's hidden lair.

As they rode on the PT Cruiser Hovercraft, the road they took led them from outside the city limits to a desolate area. As Kiyone visually scanned the area she saw only sparse plant life, abandoned brink houses, burnt twisted metal that resembled traveling vehicles that looked to be destroyed long ago and virtually no sign of animal life. She concluded that the area looked so deserted due to some fierce battle that occurred years ago.

"Cullen! What is this place? You said that we were going back to your hideout!" Kiyone shouted at the redheaded pirate as she slowed down the red colored hovercraft to a halt. "You better not try anything funny…"

"Relax Officer Kiyone, just go down this road for another kilometer and make a right on a dirt road. From there just continue on until we see a old tree stump and I'll take over from there." The burly giant replied. "Trust me, I want to get the bastard responsible for Ryoko's predicament as you do. "

After hearing the data that Kiyone had attained from Washu, who managed to retrieve it from Ryoko's subconscious, Cullen was more than willing to assist the GP officers and after listening to what Kiyone had told him at the bar, the pirate had determined that the one person who would be mixed up in this conspiracy would be the tavern owner of 'Yotaka's Place'; a man by the name of Turk…

"Turk…when I get my hands on that prick, I'm gonna ring that fuckin' guy's neck for what he did to Ryoko!" Cullen bellowed out as the thought of his friend being framed for murder had him totally enraged.

"Now take it easy Mr. Cullen. You did say that this Turk fellow would be at the bar in the morning so let's just relax until then." Detective Mihoshi meekly interrupted the pirate's ranting, "Besides, I really would like to see your hideout since you promised a tour of it…please?"

"Mihoshi! We're not here as tourists so stop badgering Cullen. When morning comes and we gotten our rest, we're going to Yotaka's and confront this Turk. If he has anything to do with Ryoko's disappearance a couple of weeks ago, we'll find out."

"Good for you Detective Kiyone and when you do, I'll personally see to it that Turk gets his under the pirate's code…"

"Pirate's code? What that?" Kiyone inquired, trying to remember such a thing.

"That, pretty lady is our way of dealing with scum like Turk who don't abide by the rules. On Trillian Prime, a pirate can go about their business providing they don't attract the law into this sector. Should another pirate help any law official in capturing another pirate, that fool is brought to our 'justice system' and believe me, it's a lot more severe than what you GP guys can think of…"

<And I hope I never find out… > Kiyone cringed as she thought of what kind of punishment these criminals would bring upon their own brethren. After seeing Cullen enraged and remembering how Ryoko would blow up when provoked, she shuddered to think what would happened if those two took their anger out on Turk. <I think I'm starting to feel sorry for this poor fool…almost. >

Several minutes later, the trio had reached the dirt road that Cullen had described to them and continued on to the old tree stump. Mihoshi couldn't help but noticed that the area was still so desolate. The other surrounding areas around Odesso weren't so dead as this dreary place. With a perplexed look on her face, she timidly asked Cullen another question:

"Uh, Mr. Cullen? I couldn't help but noticed that this part of the planet is kind of void of life. Why is that?"

"Remember when I told you how I met Ryoko?" The pirate's face grew serious as he began to reminisce that particular time long ago…

"You see all those burned out houses and vehicles? It was here thirty years ago that Ryo-oki landed and her mistress, the infamous space pirate Ryoko decided to trade in her latest heist. These old ruins used to be illegal trading posts that the Trillian Government never bothered to check on so many pirates and other criminals came here to exchange their ill-gotten booty; including yours truly."

"So what happened that caused the traders to leave here?" Kiyone joined in, her curiosity now piqued by Cullen's tale.

"As the story goes, Ryoko had hauled in a large booty from some Juraian transport and when word got around the prefecture, this gang of thirty or so men decided to ambush her. Now I was in Odesso at the time, but even from 60 kilometers from the city limits, I saw the energy blasts that the she-devil and Ryo-oki were putting out. About several hours later, when the local officials arrived at the scene, the whole area was reduced to what you see here. Luckily no civilians were killed…"

"But what about those raiders who attacked her? What happened to them?" Kiyone continued to inquire as they finally reached the old tree stump. "The reports that were sent to GP Headquarters were incomplete and nobody bothered to investigate further since the Trillian government didn't request any assistance."

"Well, the official report stated that it was a waste disposal ship that crash landed. The crash ignited a fireball and radiation from its compartments ruptured, causing the immediate area to turn into what you see today. The truth of course was that Ryoko formed her energy sword and slaughtered the whole crew when they tried to surround her. The ship that crashed was the raider's as the pilot tried to take on Ryo-oki. They totally underestimated her, being that she was young and a woman. If memory serves me right, only one raider survived the massacre…"

"One survived? Whatever ever happened to him?" the teal-haired officer looked back with astonishment. As she stared back at Cullen, her detective skills were at work, trying to ascertain on whether the incident thirty years ago may have some connection to what was happening today.

"Y'know it's funny. Witnesses said they saw the pilot climbed out of the wreckage and scampered off, as Ryoko was finishing off his comrades. Nobody bothered to check to see whatever happened to him. A few hours later Ryoko stumbled into Odesso with her cabbit, her face and clothes covered with blood and wounds she suffered from her fight. She was lying in an alley when I found her and took her in."

"Wow, I can't believe Ryoko can be so…deadly." Mihoshi said with her hands covering her mouth; her eyes fixated on her partner with such disbelief. "Kiyone, do you think Ryoko can really kill people like that so easily?"

Cullen leaned back towards the back seat where the blonde officer was sitting, glaring at her with anger simmering from his red face…

"She was ambushed you idiot! Ryoko did what any pirate, hell what any person would have done when cornered. I said it before and I'll say it again, Ryoko is many things, but a cold-blooded killer she's not! Those assholes deserved what they got and she barely survived that fight as it is."

"Take it easy Cullen! Mihoshi was only asking what any good detective would do, but you're right though, Ryoko did what she had to do and she's definitely is not the same person she was thirty years ago." Kiyone then stared at her partner, mimicking her fingers across her mouth as if to say to the ditz 'zip it'.

Cullen jumped out and stood by the stump, looking over the countryside for anything out of the ordinary. Once he felt secure, he pulled out a little red box with two black buttons by the side. As he pressed the lower button, blue energy bolts began to crackle around the area, scaring Mihoshi half to death.

"Kiyone…what's happening?"

"Calm down Mihoshi…Cullen, what the hell?!?"

"Patience space cop…everything will soon be revealed to you."

As Cullen finished his sentence, the image of the countryside in front of them began to change form and within seconds, a massive armor covered fortress stood in place. Being a wanted pirate himself, Cullen invested a great deal of money in upgrading his security around his lair, which included a state of the art cloaking device. In the event the Galaxy Police or any other person decided in tracking him down, this was his best defense. Kiyone was impressed to say the least.

"This is amazing Cullen. Very few people have this kind of technology on hand, including Washu. <Although it wouldn't be stretch to say that she could whip one in a matter of minutes…>

"Well, you GP Officers didn't exactly give me a choice now, did you? I spent quite a few Juraian dollars in brib...er, I mean finding the right people to give me access to this device. When the battle between Ryoko and the raiders was old news, I decided to relocate my hideout to this spot, figuring few people would dare to venture out here…

"Well Mr. Cullen, I have to say that it fits your personality well." Mihoshi quipped. "Did Ryoko ever stayed here?"

"Once in a while, but not recently. That was why we agreed to meet at Yotaka's Place so we can finish catching up on old times. Well, as they say on your adopted planet…'Mi casa es su casa.'

"Goody! Maybe we can get the tour you said earlier Mr. Cullen, but before we start I just have one more question…?"

<SIGH… > "What is now Mihoshi?"

"Can you point the way to the bathroom? In all the excitement I forgot to go before we left Yagami and I've been holding it since we arrived on Trillian Prime so I really need to go now!"

"ARRGH! Mihoshi! You're really hopeless, you know that?"

"Tell me Kiyone, was she your first choice for a partner or was it just bad luck?" Cullen asked with a smirk, seeing the exasperated look on the detective's face.

"You have no idea pirate…no idea at all."

"Well, let me activate the auto-gate and one inside you make a sharp left and on the second door on the right is the little girls room…"

"Oh thankyouthankyouthankyou…see ya in a few!" Like a passing breeze, the blonde officer ran inside for quick relief as the black metallic entrance doors lifted themselves from the floor. Cullen then walked inside, followed by the still frustrated Kiyone.

"When your partner is all done, I'll give ya guys a quick tour, get some food and show ya to your quarters, unless of course you just wanna see mine's…"

"Listen up bucko! I'm here to exonerate my friend, who also happens to be yours as well! I didn't come here to play house and get caught up in a lovefest with the likes of you…"

"Really? Could've sworn the first time we met; I thought I saw some serious sparks between us. Was I mistaken?" The pirate grinned as he awaited a response from the dark haired beauty.

"P-preposterous! W-what would a decorated officer like myself see in a rogue criminal like you?"

"A chance to let your hair down and be naughty for once?"

"Dream on pirate! When this investigation is over, I doubt it very much that you'll see me again unless it's with some handcuffs…"

"If that's what stopping you, I have a few laying around here somewhere…"

"ARGH! Stop it will you?!? And I thought Ryoko was arrogant and conceited at times, but you got her beat hands down!"

"Thank you. It's good to know that I taught her well. Come on, let me take you to my command center while your partner finishes up."

"Yes please! Anything to change the subject." Kiyone answered as she followed Cullen along a dimly light narrow hallway. "This also gives me the chance to contact Washu for a status report. It's been awhile."

Cullen couldn't help but smile as he kept Kiyone on her toes. Whether she admitted it or not, he was going to play around with her until his suspicions were confirmed and find out if a space pirate and a GP officer could get together without having to go to jail or go through a space chase. As for Mihoshi, her unusual behavior made the burly man leery of her and fearful that she could bring the roof down on them, but the thought of having the blonde and her partner in his quarters…

<Easy old man! Let's help out Ryoko first and maybe later we'll play with the house money…> the pirate thought to himself, indulging in his fantasies.

*************************************

PLANET EARTH…

"Ok Claybourne, let's run the analysis one more time…based on the data we have on Ryoko and the information retrieved from the video disc Azaka was so kind to leave for us, is there a possibility that the person on the disc is Ryoko?"

"You know I hate being called that Washu. Couldn't you just come up with better name? Even being called 'computer' sounds alot more appealing…" Replied the digitized voice of Washu's computer. The little genius spent many nights doing various experiments and decided that a friendly voice would be a nice change of pace, so she created an AI program in order for her computer to gain the personal traits of a sentient being. There were some drawbacks however…

"Quit whining and give me the results willya? I didn't install a personality program so you could complain all the time…"

Washu has spent countless hours going over the all the data she could dig up on Ryoko personal files and everything that occurred on the planet Xeria. Her once sparkling green eyes were now bloodshot from the lack of sleep and while she was tempted to rest, even when prodded by the concerned Nobuyuki, she refused to stop. Time was getting short and without hearing anything from the Saibankan, the brilliant scientist had no idea if or when the fleet would arrive on Jurai. Kiyone should be contacting her at anytime, but the GP officer would only be providing some clues to this mysterious puzzle. If anyone was going to fit the pieces together, it had to be the redheaded genius…

"Well Washu, based on the last updated info we took on Ryoko, my calculations indicate that the image we see on screen isn't really her. The body type doesn't match."

"I thought so. How much of a difference Clay?"

"Based on Earth's measurements, Ryoko presently stands at sixty-nine inches and weighs approximately at one hundred forty five pounds. Measuring the composition of the image shown on the disc, the person standing in as Ryoko is about sixty-seven inches and one hundred fifty pounds…"

"Claybourne, how were you able to determine that from a image? It's only a digital 3D representation."

"Simple really…during the explosion of the Juraian transport, the night sky was lit and when this 'Ryoko' appeared in the streets, the light casted a shadow behind her. If we were to compare the measurements of the shadow and the person standing there…"

"They both should have been at the right proportions if that was the real Ryoko, but they weren't! Which means our imposter must have been wearing a disguise! A mask maybe or perhaps cosmetic surgery?"

"Negative. The proportion ratio of the assassin and their shadow would have been consistent. The imposter was probably carrying a holographic image emitter on their person when they arrived at the tavern."

"I knew that…I was only testing you. Now Clay, can you 'wipe away' the image on the screen and possibly show who our killer is?"

"Nope, This disc is pissed poor in quality and heavily encrypted I'm afraid. Even as advanced as you made me, I would still need the original copy to comply with your request."

"Great! We know now that Ryoko wasn't on Xeria at the time of the murder, but we still don't have a clue on who the culprit is. Damn!" Washu answered in frustration as she leaned her body back on her floating chair. She got some of the answers she was looking for, but there was a lot of work left to do.

"Well Claybourne, you did good. It's nice to know my genius has integrated with your systems quite nicely…"

"Yeah, but you sure can pick some lousy names. Why did you have to name me after that buffoon of a instructor from the Science Academy?"

"Dr. Clay? I dunno, he was full of hot air and always wanting to get the last word in so I guess when I created you, I wanted to finally get my last two yens in, heh-heh."

"WASHU…"

"All right…all right. After this ordeal is finished, I'll let you pick a name out for yourself. Will that make you feel better?"

"Yes it would…hold up. Detective Kiyone is coming in on a secured channel. Shall I open a visual?"

"Yes, put her through…"

"Washu?!? It's Kiyone, did you find out anything from your end?" Kiyone asked, trying to ignore the advances of a certain redheaded pirate and the ramblings of her blonde partner. "We're with Cullen right now, staying at his hideout for the night."

"Good Kiyone. I completed my spectrum analysis on the videodisc and while I can happily say that the person on the video is not Ryoko, I still can't make out the identity of the killer. I'm afraid we still need further proof kiddo. Anything good on your end?"

"Well, after telling Cullen about the information we received, he thinks there's a man in town who may be involved with Ryoko's sudden disappearance, or at least knows about it. We're gonna wait until morning and head back into Odesso to interrogate him. Hopefully he'll have the answers we're looking for. Any word from the others?"

"Sorry Kiyone, still nada. Those morons from the Juraian military are keeping a tight lid on things. I probably won't hear anything until they reach Jurai and who knows what happens once they land there?"

"Knowing the Juraians, they'll try to control the media to sway in their favor. It's going to up to Ayeka to prevent this trial from turning into to feeding frenzy." Kiyone figured, knowing some of the political upheavals that had occurred on Jurai in the last few years.

"I agree, but have faith in Ayeka Kiyone. She has Yosho and the knights for guidance and maybe this is something she needs to do in order for her to succeed as empress. If anything, I'll contact you once I establish a link with them ok?"

"Copy that Washu. Once we're done here, I'll get back to you before we leave Trillian Prime…Kiyone out."

As the flat holographic screen goes blank, Washu sits alone with her thoughts, wondering what will happen next.

<I gotta feeling that things are going to get really interesting…>

**************************************

JURAIAN MILITARY CRUISER SAIBANKAN…

For the past few minutes, he sat there quietly. His back leaned against the metallic headboard, his bare legs stretched out towards the end of the bed. His skin feeling clammy due to the perspiration drying up from his first ever act of intercourse. Tenchi couldn't help but feel odd by the new sensations he experienced last night. Yet, as he looked down by his exposed chest to see the silky cyan mane that covered the face of the most beautiful being he had ever laid his eyes on, he knew deep down that he would happily remember this day for the rest of his life.

<I still can't believe it! Ryoko and I…we made love last night! I always dreamed that one day we would do it, but I never thought it would actually happen. > Tenchi smiled as he gently brushed his fingers against his love's hair. Ryoko had fallen asleep some time ago after their passionate lovemaking and he was being very careful not to disturb her from her slumber.

The former space pirate had covered herself with the bed sheets; her arms wrapped around Tenchi for comfort. While the once shy teenager can't see her voluptuous body, he still could envision every curve, feel every drop of sweat her body gave off as they joined, tasting her lips as she pulled his face onto hers, sliding down between her creamy thighs and…

<Gods! That was so…intense, but such a great feeling nevertheless. > The young Juraian thought to himself as he felt another erection coming on. Though the thought of staying in bed with Ryoko and continuing where they left off was a preferable choice, he knew that later today they would be landing on Jurai and to prepare with the ordeal that was soon to come.

Quietly and carefully, Tenchi slid off the bed and propped some pillows under Ryoko as to not disturb her. Azaka was probably still standing guard outside the sickbay and wondering how long were they on planning on staying here so he quickly dressed himself and tip-toed slowly towards the door…

"Leaving me without a goodnight kiss? Geez, talk about a one night stand." Tenchi jumped as he heard a sassy, but familiar voice.

"Ryoko! I thought you were still sleeping. I didn't want to wake you."

"Honey, my senses are very attuned to your scent so no matter what you do, I can still feel your movements." The cyan girl happily answered as she floated out of bed, still wrapped in the bed sheets and landed right in front of her love.

"Sorry I woke you, but it's morning and…well you know what today is." Tenchi said dejectedly as he wrapped his arms around his love, feeling the warmth of her body next to his. As much as he was happy for finally expressing his love to Ryoko, he felt a touch of sadness as well for last night might be the first and only time they get to make love.

"Yeah, I know Tenchi and I'll find a way to build my courage and face it, but I don't regret for one minute for what happened last night. It was such a beautiful feeling and you can't imagine how happy I am to know that you finally love me…"

"And I don't regret it either Ryoko. All those feelings I have for you, feelings I tried to keep hidden inside me were finally released and I don't have to hide anything from you anymore. I just wish that the circumstances were better."

Ryoko smiled, seeing the worrisome look her lover had on his face. As she laid her right hand on his cheek, she thought about maybe a month ago, she would've assumed that his concern for her was strictly out of pity or at least his feelings would be no stronger than what he felt for the others girls, but now she knew…

"Tenchi, while I'm the last to preach about patience, you and the rest of the gang need to do whatever it takes to get me out of this mess. Everybody got their little roles to play and I know that you won't fail me. I know that I'm innocent and I'll fight this to the very end because as long as I know that you love me and be there for me, I can't lose!"

"I'm glad to hear that darling because I'm not going to let them hurt you anymore. I'll take on the entire Juraian military if I have to, but I'm not leaving Jurai without you..."

"Oh Tenchi…" <God, he actually called me darling! >

As the young lovers gazed into each other eyes and then embraced in a passionate kiss, a knock from the door was heard from outside…

"Uh, Lord Tenchi? Sorry to interrupt you, but Princess Ayeka is on her way to see Ryoko. She tried contacting you, but since you weren't at your quarters…"

"Ayeka?!? Uh, thanks Azaka, I'll be right out."

"Ayeka is coming to see me? Guess she really wants to have that talk with me before we reach Jurai." Ryoko surmised as she phased into her blue and yellow striped dress. "Do you want to tell her about us or should I?"

"Ayeka already knows Ryoko. I told her my decision yesterday before I came here and strangely enough she took it well."

"Really? I'm pleasantly surprised at you Tenchi. Making mad passionate love to me and telling Ayeka about your choice, you really did grow a backbone these last few weeks…"

"Hey now! I'm not a wimp, just indecisive at times." Tenchi mildly scolded back at Ryoko, but knowing that she was right.

"Don't take it so hard my Tenchi, consider it that you're rapidly becoming a fine upstanding young man…and boy what a man you're turning out to be!" Tenchi flashed a crimson red on his cheeks when he heard Ryoko's remark. She's starting to see him in a new light and that was going to take some time in getting used to.

"Anyways, let me scamper off so you girls can talk. After you're done, contact me ok? None of these guards are escorting you off the ship without me by your side got it?"

"Yes my knight in shining armor. I eagerly await for your return, hehehe…"

"Oh Ryoko…"

*****************************************

ODESSO PERFECTURE, PLANET TRILLIAN PRIME...

"Well, I must say Mr. Cullen, you're a really great chef. I didn't think pirates could cook so well…"

"What ya expect blondie? I pretty much live here by myself and I can't exactly call for takeout. So it's either cook for myself or starve to death." The boisterous pirate replied as he and the lady GP officers sat at a lavishly decorated dining room with gold and silver dining ware spread out throughout the room; no doubt stolen goods from his pirating. The pirate chef served a decent meal of Trillian roast boar served with the planet's native vegetables with a generous pitcher of Juraian red wine. While the girls knew that Cullen was a wanted space pirate, they weren't about to turn down his hospitality.

"So tell me Cullen? Other than Ryoko visiting here from time to time, have you always lived alone?" Kiyone politely asked. "Not that it's any of my business, but I could imagine that it can be lonely at times. I remembered Ryoko telling me that on a few occasions."

"That's probably why she settled on Earth with that Juraian prince which I'm glad that she did." Cullen responded with a half smile, his thoughts tracing their way back to the cyan pirate who was a great partner in the short time they were together. While the burly giant would never understand what Ryoko saw in Tenchi, he was just as glad that she may had found that elusive happiness she been seeking out all her young life.

"To answer your question officer Kiyone, yes it does get lonely at times. Other than going out raiding ships with a hired crew or going into town for a few drinks and some paid female companionship, I tend to be by myself a lot. Granted, it ain't no glamorous life like those Juraian royalty snobs and I have to deal with people like you GP pests, but nobody forced me to make this choice. I'm rich, free to do what I want and somewhat famous…"

"Infamous to be exact." Kiyone jumped in, trying to understand why Cullen chose to live this life. "You're still on the GP top ten most wanted felons with Ryoko having jumped back to number one after the Braga murder."

"Wow Kiyone, imagine that. We personally know two of the most wanted criminals in the universe. Are we lucky or what?"

"You would think that Mihoshi. Now shut up and get back to eating." The teal-haired woman snapped back, sensing that familiar headache coming on.

"Well ladies, when you're finished with dinner, you can retire to my living room and I'll bring out some coffee and neublan chocolate cake…or I can bring out a keg of Trillian Prime's best ale and we could get smashed and naked! What's your preference?"

"Hmm, that's a tough one, what do you think Kiyone?"

"Well Mihoshi, there's always a third option…"

"Third option? Which one is that?"

"The option of me tying and gagging you in your room until morning so I can get some rest and prepare for our investigation…"

"Uh, I think I'll have the coffee and cake Mr. Cullen…"

"Wise choice blondie, give me a few minutes…hahaha!"

Cullen couldn't contained his laughter as he saw the nervous blonde detective scampered out of her seat and made a dash for the pirate's living room, fearing that her partner may make good on her threat. Kiyone stayed behind, shaking her head in amazement.

"Just curious Kiyone, I know she can drive you crazy at times so why have her for a partner? Can't you GP cops request for a new partner when needed?"

"Yeah, the thought has occurred from time to time, <twenty since yesterday> but we've been through a lot in the last few years and while I may never admit it to her, she is my closest friend and part of the dysfunctional family called the Masakis."

"That must be really nice…being part of a family and all." Cullen remarked as he took a seat next to the now calm detective. Kiyone for once didn't look apprehensive when he sat beside her. To her surprise, she was finding his company rather enjoyable.

"Yes, it is. Even though the GP claims that we're all playing for one team, the truth of the matter is that the life a patrol officer can be just as lonely as a pirate's. I cursed the fates when I found out that Mihoshi was alive and stranded on Earth way back when, but now I see it as one of the better things that ever happened to me." Kiyone replied happily as she took a sip a wine from her golden goblet while Cullen was giving her his full attention.

"So you have a adopted family and some high powered connections with the Jurai Royal Family, but it doesn't explain why such a beautiful woman like yourself is unattached…"

"Cullen, please don't…"

"I'm being serious here little lady. Considering your recent track record and your dynamite looks, I'm surprised you're not hooked up to some higher ranking officer or a politician."

"I haven't been looking around to be honest, but that is very sweet of you to say that. Too bad you're on the wrong side of the law or otherwise…"

"Otherwise what Officer Kiyone?" The redheaded man seductively asked as he gently embraced Kiyone's right hand. She was slightly surprised that a huge man can be so gentle. "As I remember, we're on the same team now aren't we? I think I have proven to be a valuable ally to this point. Do you think I would try something to hurt you?"

"No, it's not that. I think you're a honorable man and very handsome…<Oh God, what did I just say? >

"Look at me Kiyone. For the moment…don't think; don't ponder about anything. Do what your heart tells you to do right now. What's your heart saying to you now?"

Kiyone's mind drew a blank as she gazed deeply into the gleaming green eye of the pirate. While at times she felt repulsed by him, it was only because of what he represented. Now that she had seen glimpses of what the man actually was: a kind-hearted, brave soul who would go out and defend his friends no matter the cost, she found him very attractive and at that very moment her mind was directing her body to lean forward and press her lips upon his.

As the pirate and GP officer locked lips in a sudden display of affection, their brief moment of passion was utterly disrupted by an annoying, whining sound of a lost soul…

"KIIYOONE!! Mr. Cullen? Is the cake ready yet? I'm starving over here." Yelled out omnipresent figure of Mihoshi, waiting for dessert as she watched the interstellar news on Cullen's holographic TV.

Giggles spilled out of the dining room as both Kiyone and Cullen couldn't help themselves but laugh at their misfortune for bad timing. As Cullen got up as he began to walk over to the kitchen for cake and coffee, a gentle hand reached out…

"Sorry about that. Now you know why Mihoshi gets on my nerves sometimes. She just has a knack for these things."

"Yeah, well it was nice though. You're a great kisser you know that?"

"Thanks, you're not so bad yourself, but we shouldn't be doing this. It wouldn't be right."

"I understand what you're sayin', but you need to have some fun once in awhile. When tomorrow comes, all bets are off, but tonight could be different. Whatdaya say huh?"

"I don't know Cullen…"

"Listen up Kiyone. We're gonna have some laughs for next few hours and then get some sleep. If you want, I'm leaving my bedroom door open for you so it'll be up to you to accept my invitation. No pressure, no strings attached; it's your choice ok?"

"Let me think about it ok?" Kiyone said as Cullen handed her a pot of coffee. He laid his massive left hand on her shoulders as she looked up and saw a warm smile directed at her. She was feeling at ease now that he allowed GP officer to choose her form of pleasure, but he had to have the last word in so as they headed off to the living room to join the blonde mayhem…

"Sure babe…but don't take too long cause I may decide to play 'house' with your partner…"

"CULLEN!"

"Just kidding! Damn, ain't you the sensitive type?"

***************************************

JURAIAN MILITARY CRUISER SAIBANKAN…

"Damn that Ayeka! Even in a case of an emergency, she takes forever to look prim and proper. What the hell is taking her so long?"

For the last ten minutes Ryoko had been sitting, floating around the sickbay with her legs crossed, impatiently waiting for her friend and rival. Even before Tenchi finally came to her to confess his love, the space pirate had a sneaky suspicion that the princess wanted to discuss several things with her, including Tenchi. This was going to be an awkward situation for the both of them, but from the conversation they had earlier, Ryoko knew this had to be done before they landed on Jurai.

Just as the cyan beauty's thoughts began to drift off to more pleasant things, the med door slid open and appearing before her was Ayeka, dressed in her casual light blue kimono, her hair tied up in one long ponytail. Behind her stood Yosho and Azaka, with what seem to be a metallic ringlet or collar in his left hand. Ryoko didn't like the body language the Juraians were showing.

"Good morning Ryoko. I hope that you slept well last night…" Ayeka greeted the pirate, but without making eye contact.

"Well, I wouldn't say that I slept last night princess, but I'm feeling quite chipper this morning, don't you agree Azaka?" Ryoko answered, displaying a smirk that revealed one of her fangs. Azaka knew fully well what she meant, being that he had to stand guard all night while Ryoko and Tenchi were romping in the room. However, as a royal knight, he was bound by oath not to reveal anything that had transpired, even to the princess.

"Yes...ahem…well I'm sure spending some time with the prince may have had something to do with it. <And may Tsumani spare me from having to deal with it again. >

"Oh, Tenchi was here? No wonder I couldn't reach him through the comlink. Just as well I suppose since I'm here to talk to you about some things, but first Ryoko I need for you to do something for me, even though you won't like it…"

"Oh…and what may that be princess?"

"Yosho…please?" Ayeka politely stepped back as the old prince approached the cyan girl. Ryoko landed on the floor and took a step back, nervously waiting for what Tenchi's grandfather had to say.

"Ryoko, before we land on Jurai, there are a few things that we need to do first, but let me say this: Everyone here in this room believes in your innocence and we will do everything in our power to exonerate you. Do you believe me?"

Ryoko gave a weak nod back, still not sure what was going to happen next. Azaka then stepped up, with the circular device on hand.

"What's that Azaka got in his hand? Didn't you just say to me that you believe me?"

"We do believe you Ryoko, however the captain will not allow you leave this room without having your powers neutralized." Azaka explained, lifting the device and pushing a small button, allowing the collar device to open. "He was instructed to put this device around your neck in order to short-circuit your ability to use your powers once we reached Jurai. Normally the ship's guards are assigned to this with the captain being present, but Lord Yosho and I have 'persuaded' him that it would better that we perform the task."

"Do you really expect me to put that thing on like some condemned criminal? No Fucking way!"

"Ryoko! Mind your manners! If you go about acting like the space pirate you used to be, then you will be giving the Juraian officials exactly what they want: a depraved barbarian who murdered one of their own." Yosho said earnestly, seeing the raw anger that the former pirate was displaying. "You'll need to keep your anger in check or else the media will slander you to such extremes, your conviction will be sealed before the trial even begins."

Ryoko's golden orbs were seething with anger as she listened to the old shrine master. Her chest heaving heavily as she envisioned of what could happen once she left the ship. Her past history was to lash out at whatever threatened her existence, but this was a totally different environment and she had other people to consider as well.

"Does Tenchi know about this?" Ryoko inquired, her anger subsiding for the moment.

"No, not yet. Don't you remember Ryoko? I believe he was detained by you last night." Azaka replied, flashing a quick smirk back at the pirate, causing her to momentarily blush and to lighten the mood in the room.

"Ryoko…please, we wouldn't be asking you to do this if there was some other way, but right now our options are limited." Ayeka pleaded with her friend, reaching out and grasping Ryoko's hands with hers. "We know that you trust Tenchi with all your heart, can you do the same for us?"

"I'll answer that question when we're alone Ayeka, but I know you all mean well. Yosho, if Tenchi agrees to this then I'll do as you ask. Is that acceptable?"

"Fair enough child. Azaka and I will seek out Tenchi and explain to him what needs to be done, but understand this…the captain has his orders and you'd be playing right into their hands if you resist and there's very little Ayeka, Azaka or myself could do to help you. Please think about it Ryoko."

As the old warriors left the sick bay to seek out Tenchi, Ryoko and Ayeka each sat at opposite ends, waiting for the other to say something. Ryoko started first.

"Well Princess? You needed to talk to me so spill it. We ain't got much time now do we?"

"Unfortunately no, but what I have to say is very important so please bear with me…"

"I've pretty much been doing that ever since we met princess so this isn't much of a stretch y'know…"

"RYOKO!"

"Just kidding! Geez, you're so easy to rile up Ayeka, hehehe…"

"I'm trying to be serious here pirate! It's bad enough that I have the burden of overseeing your trial and trying to convince my ministers that I am competent to rule over my people…"

"Plus Tenchi telling you that he loves me…"

"He told you? That would explain the weird expression on Azaka's face a few moments ago." Ayeka finally surmised what the exchange between Ryoko and her knight when she noticed Tenchi's sketchbook on top of the side drawer by Ryoko's bed. Before the princess had the time to put the clues together, Ryoko quickly grabbed her attention once more…

"Ayeka? Are you ok with this? I know you must be hurting when he told you his decision and I know we've been at odds with each other for the last few months before this mess came up, but please…I still consider you my closest friend after Tenchi and I need to know that you're all right with this."

Ayeka kept her head down for a few seconds, leaving Ryoko to worry that her rival wasn't taking her rejection well. However, as her eyes began to tear up, a pair of arms quickly embraced her, momentarily startling the golden-eyed woman.

"Of course I'm ok with this silly. It's been my fault that Tenchi didn't come to you sooner when he should have. Had I admitted to myself back at Haruna's world that he was in love with you and stopped competing for his affections, perhaps none of this would've happened."

"Ayeka…"

"Hear me out Ryoko. As much as I hated losing Tenchi to you, I know that deep down you will be there for him as you always have been. I thought that no one could love that wonderful man more than me, but I was wrong. You have done things for him that would have made me stopped and think. The fact that you nearly died, bringing him to face Kagato and freeing me are proof enough."

"Ayeka…I don't know what to say. Just hearing you say that is so…so…"

Ryoko couldn't hold back as tears began to flow from her eyes. Upon seeing that, Ayeka joined in as well as both women held each other for comfort. The walls that they kept between them all these years were starting to come down; knowing that Ayeka had accepted Tenchi's love for Ryoko made the cyan girl even more happier since she won't feel any guilt in loving the one thing that she held dearly. However, there was one little problem to be cleared up…

"Ryoko? As much as I'm happy that we're still friends, I'm afraid that friendship will be severely tested when we reach my homeworld. You know as much as anyone what will take place when your trial starts and I will have very little say in what the tribunal decides to do, however I will do everything in my power to see that no harm will come to you. But…But…"

"Say it Ayeka. Are you wondering if I would hold it against you if the law decides to convict me and put me to death?"

"It won't happen Ryoko! I believe in you as the others do! We will find a way to clear your name. It's just that…that…"

"It's just you can't say for certain if I'll get out of this mess, is that it?

"Ryoko, I…"

"Ayeka, would you do me a favor?"

"What? A favor? Of course Ryoko, anything for you, what is it that you need?" The princess asked sullenly as the Ryoko took her hand and held it tight, as if she was about to say her last words.

"If things don't work out for me. Should something happen that would cause me to lose and be executed…"

"Ryoko please…"

"Hear me out Ayeka! Should…should anything happen to me, I want you to promise me that you will always look after Tenchi. If I'm put to death, he's gonna go ballistic and you'd need to be there for him; for his own sake. Can you do that for me Ayeka? For the sake of our friendship and your love for Tenchi? P-Please?"

The violet haired princess began to weep uncontrollably. She was so worry about her friend's negative reaction to her predicament, so afraid of what she'd think of her that it totally stunned her that she would make such a request. Ryoko slid next to her former rival and instinctively held her as Ayeka leaned her head against the pirate's chest and just wept. Ryoko cried as well, knowing that these few precious moments may be her last, but she was determined to be strong, regardless of the outcome. Then she remembered…

"I never answered your question Ayeka."

*Sniff * "Answer?"

"Yes. I completely trust all of you to help me through this. Regardless of what Tenchi says…I will do as Yosho says."

"Thank you Ryoko." Ayeka answered as she lifted her head up and faced her friend, trying to wipe away her tears. "I will try to uphold the trust you have placed in me."

"No, thank you Ayeka…for believing in me." <Now I just hope the tribunal does too. >

************************************

ODESSO PERFECTURE, PLANET TRILLIAN PRIME...

Dawn…the beginning of a new day as the planet's red giant began to creep up over the horizon. As life began to awaken on the desert-like landscape, two people were prepping up a hovercraft as they began to go over their strategy.

"So everything's clear right? You'll introduce me to Turk and I'll start asking the questions…" Detective Kiyone asked, making sure her new ally was on the same page.

"Crystal babe…and should your suspect decides to be uncooperative, I'll use my own powers of persuasion to get him to talk." Cullen replied. "And Mihoshi?"

"She'll be outside with the hovercraft, standing by should things get hairy, but I'm confident that we'll get what we need." Kiyone answered as Cullen came around the vehicle and wrapped his arms around the beautiful officer. Kiyone didn't back off, but instead put her arms around his, smiling about last night.

"I take it that you enjoyed last night detective?" The redheaded giant asked as he laid his head on top of Kiyone, his goatee brushing against her cheek, making her ticklish.

"Much as I hate to admit it…yes I did. Thank you."

"Your welcome. Pity that this is going to end soon; I was starting to get attach to you girls."

"I know, but we agreed last night that this is as far as we can take it, speaking of which, please don't tell Mihoshi about it please? I been on her ass about keeping her focus and concentrating on this assignment so much that the last thing I need to hear from her is why I can have fun on the job and she can't." Kiyone begged her lover as she turned around and faced him.

Cullen smiled, knowing what she meant, but he still wanted to ask the question…

"Any regrets about last night?"

"No, I don't. It was the first time in a long time that I felt like a woman and not some cop on the job. If anything, I only wish we had more time together…"

"Don't say it!" Cullen whispered as he held his index finger on Kiyone's lips."We happened between us last night was special so don't start with the 'what ifs' ok? Your mission right now is to help free Ryoko and when that's over and if you want to, you know where to find me."

"God…I never thought I could fall for someone on the wrong side of the law…"

"Hey babe, if a wanted space pirate like Ryoko could fall for a country boy who also happens to be a crowned prince of the most powerful empire in the universe, anything's possible." Cullen replied as he lowered his head down to meet with Kiyone's moist lips. "The choice is up to you."

With one swift move, Cullen picked up the lithe brunette and sat her on top the hovercraft's hood. Kiyone straddled herself around the pirate's torso as they passionately kissed. They were oblivious to the world around them until the blonde cyclone of mischief made her presence felt once more.

"Whoa! Am I seeing things or what?!?" Mihoshi yelled out, shocked to what she had just witnessed. "Kiyone…of all people!"

Cullen and Kiyone jumped from fright when Mihoshi stumbled upon them. Kiyone nearly landed on her rear when Cullen let her go to face the blonde mayhem. After a few seconds, the GP officer recomposed herself and addressed her partner.

"It's not what you think Mihoshi! Cullen was…was feeling sad about Ryoko's predicament so I gave him a hug; you know…to comfort him, right Cullen?"

"What a lame excuse for…OW!" Cullen screamed out as Kiyone high-heeled boots landed on top of his foot. He got the message.

"Oh yeah, I'm kinda bummed out over Ryoko y'know? Your partner was only trying to make me feel better. <And last night boy, did she ever! > Cullen thought to himself, grinning like an idiot.

"Oh, ok then. I could had sworn though you guys were kissing on the hovercraft, hehehe…" Mihoshi answered as she scratched the top of her head in confusion. <Must have been the morning light playing tricks with my eyes. >

"Come on guys! Time's a wastin' and we got a scumbag to catch! Kiyone can fill you in on the way over to Turk's bar." Cullen yelled out as all three jumped into the hovercraft and proceeded to Odesso.

*************************************

ONE HOUR LATER…

'Yotaka's Place: a rundown, seedy tavern on the western part of Odesso where the owner Turk had been running for the last fifteen years. No one quite remembered when Turk took over the place, but one day the original owner, Mesuru Yotaka, suddenly disappeared and shortly after, the former pirate took over. Speculation was that Turk had Mesuru knocked off, but the body was never found.

Turk was a sight to behold. At around six feet and weighing over three hundred pounds, he wasn't what you called mobile. Like many pirates, he had scar marks on his face and balding head, as well on his arms when he wore short-sleeved shirts. His left hand was robotic, indicating that he was in battle sometime ago, but to this day he would never say how he lost it.

On this particular day, which was the first day of the Trillian week, Turk would always come in early to count up his cash receipts. Many of the locals, as well as some passing pirates knew this so it wasn't unusual to see his tavern open so early in the morning. Today however, he would have wished he stayed at home…

As the GP hovercraft parked across the street from the tavern, its occupants went over their plans once more.

"Keep the engine running Mihoshi, just in case we get caught in a firefight." Kiyone told her partner as she and Cullen jumped off the vehicle and started to go towards the bar. "This place is crawling with pirates and we may need to get the hell of here if things get hairy."

"You can count on me Kiyone. Did you remember to set your cube on remote in case you need Yagami?"

"Yes I did, but thanks for reminding me anyway. You better do the same too, in case I'm too busy in there." Kiyone responded as she checked her GP sensor cube once more while also setting her phase gun to 'stun'. Cullen also checked his weapon, but his settings were on 'kill'.

<They may be leaving this planet, but I'm not. If anything happens, I ain't bothering to have some scallywag live and come back later to try and kill me. Kiyone won't understand it, but it's a matter of survival around here. > The pirate said to himself as he and GP officer strolled into the bar and into the pit of vermin.

Meanwhile a block away, two men were idly standing by a rundown abandoned building, looking at the direction of the tavern. One of the men pulled a circular device and activated it.

"Yataka! This is Oto…The GP officers have arrived and they're not alone."

"Who's with them? Can you identify the individual?" The other voice from the device answered.

"From what I can see, it looks like Ryoko's old pal Cullen. He just went in the bar with the dark-haired cop. The other one is waiting across the street with their hovercraft."

"Hmm, they ain't as stupid as I thought." Yataka realized that their plans might start to unfold so he gave his cronies their orders…

"Oto! You and Osaka go around the back of the bar, so that blonde ditz doesn't detect you. Once inside, eliminate our collaborator and if you guys can kill the cop and Cullen, I'll throw in a bonus. Got it?"

"Copy that and make sure it's in Juraian dollars ok? We're report back when we're done. Oto out!" Quietly and inconspicuously, the two figures walked over one block and made a right turn where a darkened alley was located. From there, Osaka pulled his blaster and on its lowest settings, approached the back door of the tavern and began to melt open the locks.

Back inside, Cullen and Kiyone made their way towards the middle of the bar where Turk was happily counting his cash. However, a familiar booming voice would interrupt his joyous moment.

"Turk! You old scallywag! How's it been?" Cullen bellowed out as he pulled a stool right across the where Turk was. Kiyone also found a stool and sat right next to Cullen while surveying the area. Many of the patrons were known felons and while most of them would get involved in this dispute, some may recognize Kiyone and all hell could break loose at anytime.

"Cullen! Haven't seen you in awhile. What brings you here so early and who's this ravishing young lady you brought here?" The old pirate inquired, his eyes lustily looking at Kiyone's body.

"Well, it's a funny thing Turk. Remember the last time I was here looking for Ryoko? Well Kiyone here is a friend of hers and she was just wondering what happened to her here on Trillian Prime?"

"A friend huh?" Turk replied; his once lusty expression now turned to a more serious look. "Well, you're kinda late now ain't ya? Everyone knows that devil woman is on Jurai now being tried for killing that minister so shouldn't you be there instead?"

Kiyone took over the conversation, waiting for the opportunity to spring her surprise on the tavern owner.

"Yes, you're right Mr. Turk, but my understanding is that Ryoko was here for a short time and was suppose to meet with Cullen for a few drinks. According to Red here, she never showed up so do you recall her being here?"

Turk was starting to get uncomfortable with Kiyone's line of questioning and had his suspicions.

"Not to my recognition pretty lady, what's it to you?"

"Well, Cullen said he didn't see Ryoko that day here, but a source of mine said otherwise. They said she came here an hour early and had some drinks, but she never left the bar; at least not through the front door. Know anything about that?"

"What are ya lady, a cop or something?"

"Maybe…maybe not, but the point is Mr. Turk is that Ryoko is a good friend of mine and I suspect that you had something to do with her disappearance from Trillian Prime…"

"That's enough girlie! I suggest that you and Cullen here leave my establishment…"

"Turk! Don't be such a rude host." Cullen stepped in as he displayed his phase gun from his holster. "Ryoko was to meet with me here and next thing I know she captured by the Jurai Military. I might be getting old, but I think you know more than you're letting on. Now I strongly suggest that you tell the pretty lady here what you know or else I may have to force my 'objections' on you."

"Fuck you Cullen! I ain't telling you and this bitch here shit!" Turk cursed out in which Cullen responded by grabbing the old pirate by his shirt collar and flipping him over his shoulders and smashing him on top of a nearby table. At that moment, most of the patrons decided to leave their drinks and headed out the door.

"Cullen! You called this persuasion?!?" Kiyone screamed out at Cullen, wondering if it was a good idea to bring him along.

"Detective, on this planet, we use whatever means necessary and so I used my own method of communication" The burly pirate replied, holding down Turk on the table with his gun pointed on his head.

Kiyone walked over and crouched down to talk to the bloodied Turk. As she did, the officer pulled out her cube and pressed a series of buttons in which a holographic image appeared. The image displayed a group of men from thirty years ago and in the middle of the picture showed what appeared to be a younger version of Turk.

"Remember this image Turk? This was taken thirty years ago when your raiders pulled a bank heist in another city. I asked Cullen this morning if there was any records of your group and luckily this came up through the Trillian historical archives."

"So what? What's that got to do with Ryoko…argh!! Let go you big ape!" Turk screamed out as Cullen continued to bear his massive weight down on the old pirate.

"Well, I was wondering why someone would go to great lengths to have Ryoko kidnapped and framed. When Cullen told me about the battle between her and the raiders all those years ago, I decided to go on a hunch."

"Which was?"

"Which was you dumb fuck that when Kiyone decided to research for evidence and found the photo, I immediately saw your sorry ass on that image." Cullen answered as he displayed a wide grin at the expense of the old raider. "And when I mentioned to her that only one raider survived the battle, everything started to come together…"

"You were the pilot that survived against Ryo-oki, weren't you Turk? The false hand you have right now? You lost it during that massacre and you held a grudge against Ryoko ever since…"

"SON OF A BITCH!! You led her into a trap!" An enraged Cullen hollered out as he pulled Turk up from the broken table and threw him against the bar. "There's no way that you could have arranged for her to be kidnapped and reappear in space by yourself which means you had help. Who was it you prick?!? Who the hell pay you to do this?!?"

"I…I can't tell you that! They'll kill me if they find out I talked!" Turk pleaded as he realized that his game of deception had finally ended."

"And what makes you think I won't kill you right here and now you old fart! Either you talk or I'll personally rip you apart and scatter your remains in space and painfully I may add. TALK!"

Turk finally crumbled. Seeing no way out, he hoped his beaten confession would spare him from Cullen's wrath.

"Look, I…I doped Ryoko's drink, that's all. Two guys approached me and knew Ryoko liked to come to Trillian Prime so they said they would pay me two million Jurai if I set her up."

"So this was all for money?" Kiyone jumped in, disgusted with Turk's greed for money. "You had no other motive to set Ryoko up?'

"Of course I did bitch! Not a day goes by and I see my metal hand and remember how that cyan monster slaughtered my comrades. I swore on that day that I'd avenge their deaths and walk over her bloody grave. When my benefactors presented me with the opportunity to get back at her, I took it!" Turk confessed, admitting finally of his hatred for the former space pirate.

"Well, that explains a lot Cullen. Turk helped with the setup, but that still leaves us with finding out who these guys are who paid him." Kiyone said as he began to record Turk's confession into her cube.

"Leave that to me babe. Ok scumbag, who were lining your pockets? If you're cooperative, I'll leave your other hand intact. What do ya say Turk?"

"I…I…NOOOO!!!!"

Before anyone had the chance to react, a laser shot from the back pierced through the old raider's right side of the head and exploded his brain matter through the left. Blood and flesh fell all over the bar and on Cullen and Kiyone, which caused the GP cop to momentarily lose her composure and scream. When Cullen looked towards the direction of where the shot was taken, he saw the shadowy figures of Oto and Osaka by the back door, aiming their guns right at them.

As the assassins continued to fire, Kiyone reached for her gun and leaped over the bar while Cullen grabbed another table and shielded himself as he returned fire. When Oto and Osaka realized that their advantage had ended, they quickly bolted out the door. Cullen dropped the table and ran towards the back while yelling at Kiyone to go out the front and cut them off.

Kiyone jumped over the bar once again and raced out through the front door and yelled at Mihoshi to start driving. However, by the time Kiyone scanned towards the alley, Oto and Osaka were already a block away and getting into their vehicle to escape. Cullen was right behind them, guns blazing away, but missing their intended target.

Mihoshi took off, but slowed down enough for Cullen to hopped on to the back and to continue with their pursuit. For the next several minutes they chased after the criminals, each craft shooting their lasers back and forth until they hit a long stretch of highway and suddenly a contour shaped ship appeared from above and use a tractor beam to pull the hovercraft up. Kiyone was cursing at her bad luck as she saw the ship accelerated and took off skyward.

"Don't get upset yet partner! Help is on the way!" Yelled out Mihoshi as she flashed her sensor cube and within seconds, the large red image of Yagami came up from behind them and hovered above, awaiting further instructions.

"Good work Mihoshi! Now we can go after them in our turf…"

"Except for me darlin', my ride ends here."

"Cullen…I forgot. You can't come with us?" Kiyone asked sullenly, realizing that her blossoming relationship with the pirate was about to end.

"I can't; I'm a wanted man too remember?" The giant man replied as he cupped Kiyone's face. "We all have our roles to play and while my part is finished, you and blondie still got a long ways to go. Now get going and catch those bastards ok? Ryoko is counting on you…and so am I."

Mihoshi stopped the PT Cruiser so Cullen could get off. As he did, he turned around and firmly planted a kiss the teal-haired detective one last time. Mihoshi couldn't help but giggle, as she knew that what she saw earlier wasn't a mere 'hug'.

"Remember what I told you earlier. When you're done with all this, you know where to find me."

"I do and thanks for your help. I won't forget what you did." Kiyone said in earnest, trying to hold on to whatever moments she had left with Cullen.

"And I won't forget you…now get going or else you'll lose 'em!" The redhead replied, as he displayed a loving smile back at his love interest.

"Y-You're right! Yagami, activate the transport beam and bring us home! We're going after that ship! Mihoshi, once we're inside, plot a course to intercept and charge up the weapons systems!"

"You got it Kiyone! Here comes our pick up…goodbye Mr. Cullen! It was nice meeting you!"

"You too blondie! Take care of your partner ok and say hi to Ryoko for me, she still owes me a couple of rounds!"

As the beam began to engulf the hovercraft, the two lovers gave each other a loving gaze for last time as Kiyone began to mouth something. Cullen couldn't figure out what she said, but he sensed that this wasn't the last time he would see the lovely blue-eyed officer and her partner.

TO BE CONTINUED….

**************************************

END CHAPTER NINE

A/N:

I would like to thank my chatroom compadres Malena, LedZepFan and ThunderGod for their feedbacks. I'm always amazed of what you guys dream up for your stories; hopefully my stuff is up to par.

Space Pirate Minagi: Persistent, aren't you?

Well, after this long chapter I would say that we're past the halfway point of this story so stick around as the gang's journey continues with a special surprise waiting in the next chapter. As always, your reviews are appreciated. If you want a more elaborate explanation, you can email me at a.falc@verizon.net

Later, Alighthawk