A Week Of Friends Author Psykorabbit2000 Scene 1 Hotel Room, Genus It has been two months since the fight on Atlantis and Aldebaran. KINJITE is laying on the bed and staring at the ceiling. Kinjite (to himself) "One week to go and then it is official." (breath) "I hope I can spend more time with her. I enjoy the work Fritz gives me, but I hate the nights being away from Ayami." He rolls over and steps out of the bed. He walks over and leans against the window ledge. He watches as a couple of hover cars ride down the road. He blinks and sighs. Suddenly the com beeps and he walks over to it. He sits and pushes the button. AYAMI appears on the screen and Kinjite smiles at her. Ayami "Did I wake you?" Kinjite (smiling) "Nah, having trouble sleeping. How are you feeling?" Ayami (smiling) "Tenchi Otacon says that the child is doing well. I'm doing well also. The temple keeps trying to help me with every little detail. I swear the only time I get a break from them is when you're here." Kinjite (chuckling) "I should be back in about three days. This job is almost done and I made Fritz swear on his neck that I will get at least a month or two to be with you." Ayami (confused) "Swear on his neck? I haven't heard that one. What does it mean?" Kinjite (smiling) "That if he hires me before then, I will wring it until his head pops off." Ayami smiles and shakes her head. Ayami (sweetly) "Just think. In seven days we will be wed and you won't be able to watch all those ladies I know your being hired to protect." Kinjite "I may watch them, but I haven't found any that stops me from thinking about you." Ayami laughs a little and yawns. Ayami (tiredly) "Well, I just wanted to see how you were doing. I probably should get some sleep. Busy day of putting up with cats trying to take care of me again. See you when you get back?" Kinjite (smiling) "Of course. Now go get some rest, love." Ayami smiles at him and severs the link. Kinjite smiles and walks over to the bed. He lays down and sighs. Kinjite (muttering) "Now if I could only get to sleep." The next morning... Kinjite walks through the doors of a large, nicely decorated hotel. He is wearing the dark blue form fitting armor he was wearing during the last fight against the toads. He walks up to the desk. The RECEPTIONIST, a female tiger, is sitting behind it. She looks up and smiles at him. Receptionist (kindly) "Well hello there. I assume you are here to take up your duties, Kinjite." Kinjite nods slightly and turns to the elevator as it opens. A pair of Nharnia Lions, wearing robes and each has a lightsaber hanging on their sides. The shorter female sees Kinjite and nods to him. They walk over to him. Kinjite gently bows to them as they approach. Kinjite (politely) "I hope you slept well Tharon and Tyris." Tyris, the female nods gently and smiles at him. Tyris (kindly) "We are grateful to have you as our escort. Captain O'hare has told us so much about your deeds in aiding his crew in their many battles." Tharon (nodding in agreement) "Your amazing deeds speak well of you. I am glad that Chairman Warner gave us the opportunity to meet you." Kinjite smiles politely and bows again. Kinjite (gesturing to the door) "I am honored that you wanted to meet me, but we really should get you to your appointments." The two lions nod and follow him out, to a waiting hover transport. Scene 2 Kinjite's house, Atlantis The sun shines through the window and Ayami rolls over in bed. She blinks a couple of times and sits up. She looks at the clock and shakes her head. Ayami (to her self) "Should get up and be dressed before they get here." She walks into the bathroom and quickly cleans up. She ties her hair back and gets dressed quickly. She walks out into the living room, just as there is a knock on the door. Shaking her head, Ayami walks over and opens the door. FIRST MATE JENNY and CAPTAIN MIMI LAFLUER are standing there in casual clothing. Ayami smiles and steps aside to let them in. Jenny (smiling) "Well, I have set things in motion on Genus. Bucky and the others are looking for him right now." Ayami (nodding) "You are sure about this, Mimi? We don't have this kind of ritual on Atlantis. Usually the couple to be wed are separated from each other for the week and spend time alone thinking about their choice." Mimi (laughing a little) "I'm sure of it. I've seen this kind of stuff before. It helps take the male's mind off the marriage and he has one last wild night before he is married. Besides, Bucky will be there the entire time, right Jenny?" (Jenny nods) "So how much trouble can one cat get into in one week?" Ayami walks into the kitchen and begins brewing some tea. Jenny and Mimi walk in and sit at the table when Ayami motions for them to. Jenny "What about you Ayami? Are you starting to get nervous about this?" Ayami (pouring a couple of cups) "Tell you the truth, yes I am starting to t get nervous." (walks over and sets the cups on the table and sits down herself) "I mean think about it. I met him only a couple of months ago." Mimi "Then why are you marrying him? I admit I am not exactly up to date with your world's customs, but I assume the female has some say in the matter." Ayami nods and takes a sip of her tea. She looks at the two of them and sighs. She glances down at her slender stomach, then looks at the other two females. Ayami (smiling) "It isn't the marriage I am worried about. I just hope he doesn't catch on to fast." On Genus... Kinjite is standing outside a door. He looks up as he hears someone walking down the hall. He sees BUCKY O"HARE, DEAD EYE, and MKE MARRISON heading towards him. They stop beside him. Bucky (cheerfully slapping Kinjite on the shoulder) "Kinjite, how's things been for you?" Kinjite smiles and shakes his head. Kinjite "Seems like I am spending more time away from the planet I am suppose to call home. How about you guys?" Mike and Dead Eye shrug a little and Bucky smiles. Bucky "Hopefully going to be doing better here in a second." He opens the door and pokes his head through. He sees CHAIRMAN FRITZ and the two lions talking. Fritz (looking up) "You finally got here. I kept him here for you, so snag him and go have a hell of a time. Just try to keep him out of trouble and in one piece are the only orders from Ayami." Bucky nods and shuts the door. He turns back to Kinjite and the others. Kinjite (confused) "What was that about Ayami?" Bucky looks at Dead Eye and Mike, and nods. They each grab a hold of Kinjite by the arms. Bucky (smiling) "As of right now, Kinjite, there are two things you need to know." Kinjite (looking around) "And *those* are?" Mike (seriously) "You are officially off duty for the rest of the week, as of right now..." Dead Eye (chuckling) "...and as of three seconds ago, consider yourself shanghaied!" The group drags a confused Kinjite down the hall and into a waiting hover van, being driven by BLACKBEAK and RED JACK. Red Jack (laughing heartily) "Tis going t' be a week t' remember, matey!" Fritz watches out a window and smiles as the van pulls out. He turns to the Lions and nods. Tyris (smiling) "Young love and innocent fun. I hope he will enjoy this set up, when he catches on." Tharon (nodding) "I am sure he will, from what I have heard being planned for him. I am glad we were able to help you, Chairman Warner. Now, shall we finish our discussions?" Fritz sits back down and the three of them continue their discussion. Scene 3 Kinjite's House, Atlantis, evening Ayami is sitting on a couch, flipping through a book. Jenny is sitting in a chair reading as well. Ayami looks up and watches Jenny for a few seconds. Jenny glances up and sees her. Jenny "Everything alright?" Ayami (nodding) "Yeah, just thinking." Jenny (putting her book down) "About what?" Ayami (smiling) "When we first met, how we hated each other. Now look at us. You're here to help me out, while the crew of the Valkyrie is torturing Lance." Jenny (smiling) "Yeah, you're right. The last two months have changed a lot. Funny to think, that it is mostly because of your fiancé." Ayami smiles and stands up. She walks over and looks out a window. Her tail swaying lazily. Ayami (softly) "Jenny, do you ever miss Bucky when he takes off or you do?" Jenny (thinking for a second) "Of course I do. I also know that we will be back together soon. Why?" Ayami (looking at Jenny) "It is just that Lance keeps working for Chairman Warner and he seems to be gone more than here. This house is silent without him being here." (looks out the window) "That's why I am glad you could stay. The silence bothers me." Jenny gets up and walks over to stand by the young Atlantean. They watch the twin light blue moons rise. On Rigel VII... Dead Eye laughs out loud as Kinjite tries to drink a mug of Swamp Grass. Dead Eye (laughing) "Don't worry mate! When we get 'nough o' that in yer blood, ye'll forget how bad it taste!" Blackbeak and Red Jack laugh out loud and slap Kinjite on his back. The whole group is sitting around a table, that is covered with empty mugs. Kinjite sets his mug down and coughs roughly. Kinjite (coughing) "Stars! How can you canards drink this?!" Blackbeak (raises his mug) "By open our beaks, mate!" He dumps the contents into his mouth and swallows. Bucky chuckles and takes a drink of his mug, barely keeping from gagging. Bucky (coughing) "I swear canards have no taste buds!" Everyone at the table laughs and the canards raise their mugs. Red Jack "This is to Kinjite! Never sailed with 'im, but heard a few stories form Dead Eye 'bout him!" Black Beak (nodding) "From what we heard, there will never be a crazier feline 'live to top 'im!" All three of the canard drain their mugs. Kinjite shakes his head and smiles. He looks at Bucky. Kinjite (a little tipsy) "So how long... am I suppose to be shanghaied for?" Bucky "Until two days before your marriage. We felt we should at least have a party for you, considering how much you helped us out." Kinjite (stunned and sobering up quickly) "Five days! Of this? My liver won't handle it!" Mike (a little tipsy) "Who says we're staying here for five days? We agreed to let the Corsairs start the party. There are more planets than just Rigel VII, you know and we have five days!" Kinjite (meekly) "I am a dead cat." Dead Eye (laughing) "Then let's make the next planet be heaven! How about Callon II? I hear the desert Vixens there can warm any frozen hearts with their dances!" Blackbeak and Red Jack cheer at the suggestion. Kinjite looks over at Bucky with a worried expression. Kinjite (quietly) "Dances that warm even the coldest heart?" Bucky (shaking his head) "This will be what we call a culture shock for you Kinjite." Scene 4 Atlantis, the next morning Ayami and Jenny are walking through a small market. Ayami stops in front of a jeweler stand and looks through the various jewelry. A gem catches Jenny's eye and she picks it up. It is blood red and set in a black metal ring. The color seems to keep changing shades, as if the interior was liquid. Jenny "Ayami, what kind of stone is this?" Ayami (looking over) "We call it a Heart Stone. They are set in various items, but are mostly in rings. It kind of reminds me of Lance's spell gems he wears. They always seem to be flowing when he moves while wearing them." Jenny looks at her for a second and then back at the stone. Jenny "I never noticed that about his gems. The usual spell gems don't do that. I wonder what makes his different." She sets the stone down and starts to leave Ayami looks at the jeweler and points to the ring. The elderly female cat nods and picks it up. Elderly Cat (calling to Jenny) "Excuse me young kitten." (Jenny turns around and steps up to the stand) "Any friend of Master Oni Lance deserves a stone like this. Take it please." The Elderly cat gently takes Jenny's paw and slides it on her finger. Jenny stands there stunned and looks at Ayami for help. Ayami smiles and nods. Elderly Cat (smiling) "Master Oni Lance has started to form peace between our worlds. I want you to take it. It matches your gems and looks good on you. Now shoo before you try to put it back!" The elderly female gently pushes Jenny and Ayami away. Jenny just looks at the ring in shock. Jenny (stunned) "This ring must cost a fortune! I can't take it!" Ayami (smiling) "She wouldn't have given it to you if she was poor." Jenny (looking at Ayami) "Did you have something to do with this?" Ayami smiles and walks over to a fruit stand. She quietly talks to the male there. He hands her a couple of fruits and bows to her. She walks over and hands one to Jenny. Jenny (stunned) "Ayami, you didn't pay for these!" Everyone looks at her in shock. Jenny looks around and then back to Ayami. Ayami motions for her to follow. They walk around a corner. Jenny "What was all that about?" Ayami (patiently) "I am a Chosen. We don't pay for things." Jenny "Why not? What is so special about being a Chosen?" Ayami (smiling) "Unlike your planet Jenny, magic isn't as common around here. The Chosen are the select few who are given the magic of the Goddesses. We use our magical abilities to aid our people and planet and in return, our people and planet takes care of us. We aren't expected to pay for anything with currency, but we can get in great trouble if we abuse this privilege." Jenny (confused) "Then why does Kinjite still work for Fritz?" Ayami (quietly) "He was raised to work for what he got. He can't accept that as a Chosen he doesn't have to work. He feels worthless when he doesn't work." Jenny slowly nods and takes a bite out of the fruit. Callon II... The tavern is lively as the party goes. It closely resembles an Arabian harem, with low tables and plush sitting pillows all around. Young Vixens wearing various silken garments dance around and serve customers. Blackbeak and Red Jack are watching a pair of dancers across the room. Bucky is sitting by Kinjite. He looks over and sees Kinjite watching a young vibrant vixen dance by. Bucky (chuckling) "Bet you haven't seen anything like this before." Kinjite (watching the dancer) "No I haven't" (he tears his eye away form the dancer and looks around the table) "It would seem that Mike is certainly enjoying himself." Bucky looks over and sees his engineer dancing with a different dancer. Bucky chuckles a little. He slowly stands up. Kinjite watches him. Bucky (patting him on the shoulder) "I'm going to go check on Dead Eye. Last I saw of him was as he was following one of the dancers out the door." He walks out a door and Kinjite shakes his head. He raises the wine goblet and takes a sip from it. He is thankful that he left his armor on the ship, due to the heat in the room from the various braziers around the room. Elsewhere... Bucky climbs up the ladder and into the shuttle. He walks over and flips a switch on the com. Jenny appears on the screen. Jenny (smiling) "How is he doing?" Bucky (chuckling) "He is acting like a scared hare, but he seems to be relaxing finally. How are things with you?" Jenny "Ayami is doing fine. She is a little nervous about a couple of things, but she seems to be doing well." Bucky nods and lets out a sigh. Bucky "Brings back a few memories, doesn't it?" Jenny (smiling) "A few of them. Think you can make it to the end?" Bucky (smiling) "Sure I can. I might be pickled by then, but I am pretty sure we can last." Jenny "See you then, Buck." She severs the link and Bucky shakes his head and heads out the hatch. Back in the Tavern... Kinjite sets his goblet down and cracks his neck. Suddenly a slender pair of hands gently touch his shoulders. He quickly spins around and sees the young dancer that he had been watching. She smiles at him through her silken veil. Dancer (kindly) "You seem tense, friend. I can massage your shoulders if you want." She gently starts massaging his shoulders, before Kinjite can say anything. He opens his mouth to say something, but stops as her fingers work into his muscles. Kinjite (relaxing) "You're good. I guess you do this a lot." Dancer (pleasantly) "Some of our patrons tense up due to the heat. This is a secondary skill we learn to help them relax here. May I ask you a question?" (Kinjite nods) "Is your name either Lance or Kinjite?" Kinjite (looking at her) "Their both my name. Why?" Dancer (warmly) "So you're the one getting married in a few days then?" Kinjite turns to face her. He looks deep into her golden brown eyes. Kinjite "Yes, how did you know?" Dancer (leaning in close) "A friend of yours told me. She must be a very lucky cat to be marrying a cat like you." (runs her paw over his toned upper body) "So toned and muscled. You must be very strong. I was told to do something by your friend." Kinjite (hesitantly) "What's that?" Before he can react, the Dancer removes her veil, leans in and kisses him on the lips. She pulls back gently and replaces her veil. Kinjite just sits there stunned. Dancer (warmly) "An early wedding gift from a close friend of yours." She leans over and fills his goblet again, as he sits there. She looks at him as she pulls back and smiles again. Dancer (playfully) "She said you would react like that." She gets up and dances away, before Kinjite can react. Bucky walks up and sits down again. He waves his hand in front of Kinjite's face, snapping him back to reality. Bucky "What'd I miss?" Scene 5 Atlantis, the next day Ayami is sitting on a bench. Jenny walks up to her and sits by her. Jenny "How are you doing?" Ayami (quietly) "I miss Kinjite even more. It is getting harder to sleep at night without feeling him beside me." Jenny "It is only a couple more days." Ayami looks at her and sighs. Ayami "Is it really that important for him to finish this party that Mimi suggested?" Jenny (looking at her) "If he was here, you two would still be separated, right?" Ayami nods and turns as she hears approaching footsteps. Otacon approaches them and bows. Otacon (politely) "Tenchi Ayami and Jenny. How are you doing this morning?" Ayami (bowing back) "I am feeling well and how about you?" Otacon "It is a good day. We all look forward to your marriage. If I may, it is time to check on your health." Ayami sighs and stands up. Otacon's paw glows as he glides up and down before her body. He takes a step back and nods. He looks at Jenny and smiles. Otacon "I see you are doing a good job of taking care of Tenchi Ayami. Her health and the child's health is in excellent condition. Thank you." Jenny (nodding) "No problem. How long until the child is born?" Otacon (after thinking a moment) "Our race carries for about ten months, so that means in about seven months. That would put it in the Winter season, during the season of Ahsika. About mid season if I am guessing right." Jenny nods and looks at Ayami, who smiles. She gently sits back down. Otacon bows and walks away. Jenny "what is it like in the Season of Ahsika?" Ayami "It is during the coldest time of the year. It is to cold to rain and it snows lightly for four months straight. It usually ends up with about four feet of snow by the end. Everything is covered and all is white." Jenny (puzzled) "I thought that Ahsika was the Goddess of Darkness. Why is her season when everything is white?" Ayami (smiling) "She is the Goddess of Darkness, but darkness can't exist without light. Though everything is covered with snow and white, there is no sunlight. The Sun never rises during that season. The twin moons provide the light for that time of the year." Jenny nods and watches a cloud float over head. She looks back at Ayami and smiles. Ayami "What?" Jenny (smiling) "Just think, in seven months you will be a mother and Kinjite will be a father." Ayami smiles and nods. She gently touches her stomach and smiles warmly. Onboard the Valkyrtie... Kinjite slowly opens his eyes and feels the dull aching throb of his head. He slowly sits up and looks around, slowly. He sees the canards laying in various places around. Mike slowly walks out of engineering, holding his head. Kinjite notices a smudge on his cheek and shakes his head. Mike sees him and walks over. He sits by Kinjite and groans. Kinjite (quietly) "How many more days?" Mike (whimpering) "Two more, I think. What happened last night?" Kinjite (closing his eye) "I'm not sure. I remember seeing you dancing with a Vixen. I think one of them kissed me and danced away. It is to foggy after that, but I am guessing that you did something to receive a kiss on your cheek." Mike (quietly) "Why do you say that?" Kinjite (looking at Mike) "You still have a lipstick smudge there." He drags a finger across the smug and holds it up for Mike to see it. Mike slumps against the wall with a groan. They both look over as Bucky climbs down from the cockpit. He looks as haggard as they feel. He walks over and sits on the other side of Kinjite. Kinjite (quietly) "Where are we going now?" Bucky (sighing) "Not another bar, I can tell you that much at least. Any place you would like to go?" Mike (quietly) "Somewhere to recover, maybe?" Kinjite chuckles weakly at the remark. Kinjite "That sounds like a great plan, Mike. Any suggestions?" There is silence for a few seconds. Bucky and Mike look at Kinjite. Kinjite (sighing) "Set a course for the planet Atlantis. On the opposite side of it are the Auroran hot springs. They can help us recover." Bucky nods and heads back up to the cockpit. Mike watches him leave and looks at Kinjite. Mike "Can I ask you something?" Kinjite "What is it?" Mike "What is it like on Atlantis? I mean I have seen the castle, but what is the rest of the planet like?" Kinjite smiles and closes his eye. Kinjite "It is like Aldebaran and severely different as well at the same time. You would have to explore it yourself and see what your eyes and ears show you." Mike (groaning) "Even with a hangover, I can't get a straight answer out of you!" On Atlantis, mid afternoon... Ayami and Jenny are relaxing in the small garden behind Kinjite's house. Ayami looks up as she hears two sets of footprints. She sees a young acolyte approaching, with a tall robed figure behind him. He approaches and bows to Ayami. Acolyte (politely) "Tenchi Ayami, I have a visitor who says that your friend Jenny insisted he come here to be at the marriage." Jenny looks up and sees the hooded figure Ayami looks at her with a raised eyebrow. Jenny (to Ayami) "It is a friend of mine. He's safe." Ayami nods and turns to the acolyte. Ayami (kindly) "Thank you for showing him the way here." The acolyte nods and walks out of the garden. Ayami looks at the towering figure. Figure (looking at Jenny) "I have come, just as you insisted. How long until the wedding?" Jenny "Two days, Dallion. Relax already." Ayami (curious) "Dallion? What race are you? I haven't seen any races this tall." The Figure looks at her and nods. He reaches up and gently removes the hood. Ayami's eyes widen in awe at the sight of the large cyborg wolf. Ayami (amazed) "A cyborg?!" (she gets up and walks up to him, as he removes the robe.) "I've never seen one up so close." She walks around him and studies his cyborg body. She reaches out slowly and stops. Ayami (looking up at Dallion) "May I?" Dallion sighs gruffly and nods. Ayami gently touches his armored forearm and runs her finger down it. Ayami (whispering) "Amazing! The scientist had theories of doing stuff like this, but they haven't figure out how to keep the nervous system working right." Jenny watches her and looks up at Dallion, who is watching the young female cat walk around him again. Jenny (to Dallion) "This is Ayami. She is to marry Kinjite. I wanted you to come to meet Kinjite, because you two have a lot in common." Dallion (looking at Jenny) "What? Is he a cyborg as well?" Jenny chuckles a little and shakes her head. Jenny "No, but with the way he treats his body, it is a wonder he is still in one piece at times. He has a strong since of honor and discipline." Dallion nods and turns his attention to Ayami. She looks up at him and smiles. Dallion "What is the customs of this planet? Am I to be allowed to walk freely or should I hide what I look like?" Ayami (eagerly) "You don't have to hide yourself! You are a walking example of what our scientist are trying to prove can work. Actually, Jenny and I were getting ready to have an early dinner. Would you care to join us?" Before Dallion can answer, Ayami grabs his right paw and pulls him towards the house, as Jenny follows smiling. Scene 6 Auroran Hot Springs, Atlantis The Valkyrie lands and the crew disembarks. They are greeted by a small group of Atlantean females wearing kimono style robes. The Leader steps forward and bows gently before Kinjite. Leader (kindly) "Welcome to the Auroran Hot springs. How may we be of service to your crew? Kinjite (bowing back) "I am Master Oni Lance and my friends and I would like to relax and use the springs to recover from the celebration we have been involved in." The Leader looks up and her eyes widen. She smiles warmly and motions to the others. They step forward and gently take the arms of the crew. The Leader steps forward and gently takes Kinjite's arm. Leader (sweetly) "We have heard of you, Master Oni Lance. You do us great honor visiting the springs. Please allow us to attend to your every need while you and your friends are here. I believe I know the proper treatments to help you deal with your *ailments*." She gently leads him into the entrance, as the other females lead the crew in. They are lead into a locker room with stalls along the side and lockers on the other side. The females gently release their arms and open the lockers. They pull out robes and hand them to the males. Leader (kindly and pointing to the lockers) "Please step in there and remove your clothing. Wear these robes and we will clean the clothing as you relax." Kinjite nods and steps into the first stall closing the swing door behind him. The others look at each other and do like wise after a few seconds. Kinjite's house, night... Dallion looks up as Ayami walks out of her room, in a robe. She looks over at him and smiles. She walks over and sits on the couch. Dallion (gruffly) "You should get some sleep. Jenny tells me you are carry a child." Ayami "True, I just can't seem to get to sleep though." Dallion "Why?" Ayami (pulling her feet up under her) "I miss Lance. It eats at me every night." Dallion (looking at Ayami) "You call him Lance? Jenny refers to him as Kinjite. Why?" Ayami "His name is Lance. The Aldebaran Sister hood gave him the title of Kinjite, The Forbidden One for something he did four hundred years ago." Dallion (nodding) "It must have been something severe to be called a Forbidden One." Ayami "I'm not sure. Lance really doesn't speak of it and neither does Jenny. I know he is willing to give his life to defend Aldebaran though." Dallion "That is a great burden, to defend an entire world and hope to do it yourself. I have heard that he is a great warrior." Ayami (yawning a little) "He is a great fighter. I've seen him fight that metal behemoth called Toadborg twice now. I have also seen him get smashed through walls and doors, but he still gets back up. From what I have seen, Lance would rather die, than surrender and give up." Dallion (nodding) "A strong will and great pride in himself. I can see why Jenny speaks highly of his skills. She also speaks of his rash actions at times as well." Ayami (nodding) "He does get reckless as he gets angrier in fights, but at the same time, he seems to get stronger as well. I worry about him pushing himself to far one day and not being able to recover." Dallion (looking out the window) "We all do at one time or another. It affects all of us differently. All we can do is try to prepare ourselves and be ready when that day arrives." He turns and sees Ayami, sleeping gently on the corner of the couch. He gently places his paw on her and she opens her eyes slowly. Dallion (quietly) "you should go to bed and get some sleep." Ayami (sleepily) "Yeah, you're right. See you in the morning, Dallion." She stands up and stretches a little. She then hugs Daullion, to his surprise and walks into her room. Dallon just stands there, shocked by her actions. At the Hot Springs... Kinjite is sitting in a meditating position, in a steamy room. He can feel small drops of sweat on his fur and takes a deep breath. He rises and stretches a little. He slowly goes through a couple practice moves and twirls around to face the door. He walks out and a young female is waiting there for him. She guides him down the hall and into a room. The others are laying on tables and each has a female massaging their backs. Black Beak looks over a she walks in. Black Beak (laughing a little) "Done cooking yer brains, mate?" Kinjite (laying on a bed) "There is more to relaxing than just the body." A young female starts massaging his back and Kinjite feels his muscles relaxing. Bucky "So after this, what is the plan?" A Female (kindly) "We have set up accommodations for you to sleep for the night. High Priestess Selena has asked us to begin preparing Master Oni Lance for the wedding." (looks at Kinjite) "Have you chosen your walker?" Kinjite looks up at her and shakes his head. Mike looks over and sees this. Mike (curious) "What is a walker?" Female (politely) "A walker is a male friend or family member who walks along with Master Oni Lance. They are for support. Their job is to help him deal with the stress and worries about the wedding. The female chooses one as well." Mike nods his head and lays it back down. Scene 7 Kinjite's House, morning... Dallion is standing back as a couple of Atlantean females are checking the dress on Ayami, for her wedding. Jenny is standing back by him as well watching. Jenny "So that is what a walker does. Interesting. Have you picked one, Ayami?" Ayami (blushes slightly) "I had two choices, but unfortunately one of them isn't here." Dallion "Sometimes fate isn't kind to us and we have to make do with what it gives us." Jenny nods and turns as there is a knock on the door. Ayami "Can you get that Jenny? It is probably Tenchi Otacon wanting to do his check up." Jenny nods and walks over. She opens the doors and stops in her tracks. Standing before her is the Queen of Aldebaran and Princess Felicia. Jenny (stunned) "Your Highness!? What are you doing here?" Queen (smiling) "Lance is getting married I heard. I came to see it happen and besides, it is a good excuse to take a break form the endless paper work of the throne." Jenny steps aside and lets them in. Dallion steps back against the wall. Ayami turns and sees the Queen. She bows gently and smiles to her. Queen (taking her paws in a firm squeeze) "It is good to see you again, Tenchi Ayami and it is good to know that you are the one marrying Lance." Ayami (smiling) "Thank you, your Highness. I am glad to see you here and able to take up my initiation. I knew it would mean a lot to Lance if you were here." The Queen nods and takes a step back to look at the dress. She nods and smiles at the young Atlantean before her. Queen "You look wonderful in that. I can't think of anything to make this a more perfect setting." Ayami (blushing) "I can." Queen (raising an eyebrow) "What is that?" Ayami (looking towards the ground) "I have a favor to ask of your, your Highness." (takes a deep breath) "Will you be my walker and support during this endeavor?" The Queen stands there for a second and smiles. She gently places a paw on each of Ayami's shoulders. Queen "Under on condition." (Ayami looks up and waits patiently) "You explain to me what a walker is and does." Ayami smiles and laughs a little. At the Hot Springs... Kinjite (explaining) "It isn't an easy task to pick a walker. The person has to be someone who either understands the type of mammal you are or is someone close to you or your betrothed. I have looked but I have been unable to find a walker." (He looks over as the females bring in his ceremonial armor.) "Besides I have to deal with wearing that outfit." The armor is of a dark midnight blue, with the edges streaked with snow white jade. There is a cloak of onyx black and crystal blue hanging off the back. Another female is carrying an open front helmet that is made of silver and gold, with an opening for his spell gem. The females look at him and he sighs. Bucky chuckles as Kinjite stands up. Bucky "The things you do for love, right?" Kinjite (looking at Bucky) "Laugh it up, Bucky. Sooner or later, you will be in these shoes and I will be sitting there laughing at you." Bucky "Not likely. I plan on having a Warren marriage." The crew watches as the Females help him put the armor on. It is form fitting and flowing. Kinjite kneels down and a female places the helmet on. She steps back and nods. She then turns to Bucky and the Crew. Female (firmly) "You are to take him directly to the castle. Then try to help him find a walker." Bucky nods and looks at Kinjite. Bucky "Let's go." At Kinjite's House... Ayami is sitting in a chair. The Queen is sitting across from her. Queen (smiling) "So all I am to do is walk behind you?" Ayami (nodding) "It is a spiritual help that your presence offers. It is the proximity of a caring and helpful person. Marriage ceremonies can stir up fear and having a friend nearby helps relax us." The Queen nods and looks at Jenny, who is talking with Dallion. Queen (to Ayami) "Why is that cyborg wolf here?" Ayami (looking over at Dallion) "Jenny wanted him to meet Lance. He has been able to help me as well. I hope he will get the chance to talk with Lance." (looks at the clock on the wall) "Speaking of Lance, he should be on his way to the castle. We should be heading that way as well." The Queen nods and they stand up. Jenny notices and she and Dallion walk over. Jenny "Is it time?" Ayami nods and swallows gently. Ayami "Lance should be on his way to the castle as we speak. We should head there our selves, for the Ceremony starts at midnight and runs through sunrise." Felicia, who has been silent through this looks up. Felicia "Midnight to sunrise? That's a long ceremony." Ayami (nodding) "It starts in the darkest hour and runs to when the sun is at its brightest. During that time is the Hour of Unity. A time when both Goddesses look upon the Cathedral at the same time." Dallion (intrigued) "When is this Hour of Unity?" Ayami "It is when the sky is still black and the horizon is bright. As the first rays of the sun shine over the mountains, the ceremony will end and Lance and I will be wed." Dallion nods and pats her on th shoulder. She gently pats his paw and heads towards the door. The Queen follows with Felicia in step. Jenny looks at Dallion and smiles. Jenny (smiling) "Careful Dallion. You might show your softer side through that tough exterior you put up all the time." Dallion (gruffly) "She is worried and scared. A hand of gentleness and friendship is always welcome." (looks at Jenny) "A lesson even I learned the hard way." Jenny nods and they walk to the transport. At the Castle... An acolyte opens a door and leads Kinjite into it. Acolyte (kindly) "You are to stay in here, Master Oni Lance. Your friends may visit you, but you are to stay away from Tenchi Ayami for these last few hours." Kinjite nods and steps into the room. There is a pitcher of water on the table with a couple of glasses. He walks over and pours a drink. The Acolyte silently shuts the door. Kinjite looks around and takes a seat in a cushioned chair. Kinjite (to himself) "Never thought you would go this far. It isn't Katrina, but she means just as much as Katrina." He leans his head against the chair and shuts his eye. Several hours later... The door opens and Kinjite slowly opens his eye. He sees a tall cyborg wolf standing there, with the door shut behind him. Kinjite sits up and looks at him. Kinjite (cautiously) "Who are you?" Dallion "My name is Dallion. I am assuming you are the one known as both Kinjite and Lance." Kinjite nods and stands up. Dallion walks over and stands by the table. Dallion (gruffly) "So you are the one to marry the one called Ayami and you must be the one Jenny spoke of." Kinjite (with a shrug) "That's me. Hope Jenny said the good things about me. So why are you here?" Dallion "Jenny said I should meet you. That we have a lot in common, strong honor and pride." Kinjite (nodding) "That and bravery." (pours another glass of water and drinks it) "So brave against attacking armies. So why the frell am I scared to death of this marriage?" Kinjite turns and walks across the room. Dallion watches him and sighs. Dallion (calmly) "You are a soldier, right. Therefore you understand war and death. This is neither war nor death. It is a strange new area and you know nothing of it. Fear is understandable." Kinjite turns and looks at the wolf. He nods and takes another drink. Kinjite (quietly) "Your right. I am entering a new area. An area I thought I would never enter. Hell, her and I are going to be together forever. I guess I am worried about the trouble that follows me. She could get caught in it." Dallion nods and watches as Kinjite paces around Dallion Your fears are justified. I have seen the records of what happened on Genus. You are skilled in combat. She knows this and knows the chances about the dangers as well. She is willing to risk it. Are you?" Kinjite stops and looks at the wolf. Kinjite (bluntly) "I'm *here* aren't i?" Dallion (nodding) "And that speaks highly of you. She carries your child, your love, and her devotion to you. I can see you carry her love and your devotion to her as well." (walks over and pats Kinjite on the shoulder) "You two will be happy together. I have met your fiancé's walker. An interesting choice. How about you?" Kinjite looks down and walks over to the chair. He sits in it and sighs. Kinjite (quietly) "I don't have one. I have a lot of friends now, but none of them really know me or how I am." (looks at Dallion) "Bucky dragged me across the whole anivers for a party to celebrate this and I still felt alone during it. Even though I was surrounded by friends the whole time." Dallion (quietly) "Why is that?" Kinjite (looking down) "Even though they are all here to see this marriage, the one person I wish could be here isn't. I would give up everything if she was here." Dallion (stepping up beside Kinjite) "Who is that?" Kinjite (quietly) "My mom. She died four hundred years ago. Though all of them are here and are happy about it and are trying to make this the best day for me, none of them know how empty I feel. They don't know what it is like to be truly alone in this aniverse." Dallion just stands there and remains quiet. He pats Kinjite on the shoulder again and heads towards the door. He stops at the door and looks back at the quiet cat. Dallion (thinking to himself) Dallion turns and walks out the door, shutting it gently behind him. That night.... Kinjite looks up as the door opens. A young Acolyte steps in and bows to him. Acolyte "It is time Master Oni Lance. Your walker has shown up and the ceremony has started. Tenchi Ayami has started her walk with her walker as well." Kinjite looks up and stands. He takes a deep breath and follows the Acolyte. Kinjite (thinking) Acolyte (walking) "I must admit, Master Oni Lance, that you chose an interesting walker." They round a corner and Kinjite sees Dallion standing there. The Acolyte stops before him and bows. Acolyte (politely) "It is simple. You walk down this hall. There are no doors, except the one you need to walk through. When you get in the main room, you will see the trail. Master Oni Lance must be in front of you when you go through the door. He will stop right beside Tenchi Ayami and you are to stand right behind him, beside Tenchi Ayami's walker. You can talk and do what ever until he stands beside her. After that, you are to just be there and remain quiet. Do you understand all of this?" Dallion nods and looks at Kinjite. Dallion "It is time." Kinjite nods and they start walking down the hall. Dallion is a half step behind Kinjite as they walk. Kinjite (quietly) "What possessed you to be my walker?" Dallion (quietly) "The walker is someone who understands what kind of mammal you are." (looks at Kinjite) "I understand you. We are both soldiers and warriors. As well, we are both alone in this aniverse. I felt that this was the right choice and did it. I am glad to see you found acceptance in this place and will no longer be alone." Kinjite (taking a deep breath) "Thanks Dalion. Even though I just met you, I am glad I did. I probably wouldn't be able to make this walk without you here to help." (looks at Dallion) "I don't know what Ayami thinks about you, but you aren't alone here. On this planet, you always have a place to call home and I plan on being there when you find someone to take that walk for as well." Dallion nods and they walk in silence. They reach the door and stop before it. Dallion looks at Kinjite and sees him looking back. Kinjite (smiling nervously and raises a small fist) "Here's to being alone and to fear as well, right?" Dallion nods and they gently hit their fist together. Kinjite reaches up and pushes the door open. Before him is a walkway between several rows of Atlantean cats. He sees some Aldebaran cats as well. Kinjite starts walking and Dallion is behind him as he walks. Kinjite steps around the corner and sees Ayami ahead, waiting for him. Behind her stands the Queen of Aldebaran. Kinjite takes a deep breath and feels Dallion behind him. Kinjite (thinking) "Stars! I am glad he is there!" Kinjite walks up and steps beside Ayami. He catches a glimpse of Bucky and Jenny in the crowd and turns to face the High Priestess Selena as she approaches. Scene 8 Palace Grounds Atlantis, the next afternoon Everyone is gathered around the newly married couple, laughing and celebrating. The King and Queen of Atlantis are there as well. Dallion is standing off to the side, under a tree, watching the groups. His eyes fall on Kinjite and Ayami as they have their arms around each others waist, in an embrace. Voice "Did you get the chance to meet him?" Dallion turns and sees Jenny approaching him. Dallion nods and remains quiet. Jenny "Dallion, are you alright?" Dallion "I am fine. I am glad for the young couple and hope things work out for them." Jenny stands by him and watches the young couple. Jenny "How did your talk with him go?" Dallion "His heart is wild. I hope he will settle down after he becomes a father. I am sure that Ayami will be patient enough with him." Jenny (nodding) "What is your opinion of him?" Dallion (quietly) "He is rash, quick tempered, reckless, and unpredictable. I have red the reports of his fights. He causes great amounts of damage during his fights and throws caution to the wind as well." (takes a deep breath and exhales) "He is a kindred soul." Jenny looks at the tall cyborg and shakes her head. Jenny "Then why are you out here? Get in there and congratulate the frelling cat!" She pushes him towards the group. Dallion sighs and walks up to the crowd. The group parts and he slowly walks up before Kinjite and Ayami. They both smile at him, as he approaches. Kinjite "I was wondering if you were going to say anything or just keep sitting by that tree." Dallion (gruffly) "For only having one eye, you seem to see a lot." (looks at the both of them) "I wanted to say congratulations on your wedding and I hope things will go smoothly for you." Kinjite "Thanks, Dallion and thanks for the help." He offers a paw and Dallion takes it. His cybernetic paw wraps all the way around Kinjite's paw. They shake firmly and release. Ayami steps up beside Dallion and he turns to her. Ayami "Could you lower yourself down a little bit. It's awkward to talk to your chest." Dallion slowly lowers down and looks her in the eyes. Ayami (warmly) "I wanted to thank you for helping me out when I need the help. Lance told me what he said and I agree. You are always welcome in our house and you are always going to be considered a friend of the family." She quickly hugs the cyborg and gently kisses him on the cheek. A few Atlantean males cheer at this and she steps back beside Kinjite. Dallion stands up and looks around. A few more males laugh and raise glasses in salute to the new couple. Dallion nods to the young couple and slowly walks from the crowd. He stops by the tree and gently touches the side of his cheek. Jenny looks at him and watches as he lowers his paw. Jenny "What? Does that bother you?" Dallion (quietly) "No, it has just been awhile since that has been done." Jenny (smiling) "So what are you going to do know?" Dallion (putting on his helmet) "Unsure, but I will stay in touch." he walks down the hill and after a few minutes, Jenny hears his rockets as he takes off. At Kinjite's House, an hour later... Kinjite puts his helmet on the table and sits in the chair. Bucky and Jenny walk in. Ayami walks into her room to change out of her dress. Bucky (sitting in a chair) "Have plans on staying out of work for awhile?" Kinjite (smiling) "Yeah, I want to try and live as close to a normal life as I can get. Why?" Jenny "We were just curious. Ayami says you have trouble accepting the fact you don't have to work for money." Kinjite (nodding) "That is true. It is something I just have to get use to, I guess." (looks at Bucky) "I guess you could call it a culture shock." Bucky chuckles and nods. Ayami walks out, wearing a robe and stands by Kinjite. Jenny (looking at Ayami) "Do we get to be here when the child is born?" Ayami smiles and looks at Kinjite. Ayami (looking back at Jenny) "You can be here, but you won't be able to see the birth. That is a special ritual, that even Lance won't be able to attend." (gently runs a paw over Kinjite's shoulders) "Besides, you can keep him sane during the time." Everyone chuckles a little. Bucky stands up and looks at Jenny. Bucky "We should be going. Fritz is sure to start counting the minutes that we go over on our leave. Besides, these two are just married and probably want to spend some time alone together." Jenny nods and they start walking towards the door. Kinjite "Hey Bucky!" (Bucky stops and turns) "Don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it. I owe you for the alcohol poisoning from this last week!" Bucky smiles and nods. He and Jenny walk out the door and shut it behind them. Ayami turns to Kinjite and smiles. Ayami (brushing his hair) "Finally, it is over and done with." Kinjite (putting his arms around her waist) "Do we have to go back to the temple to sit on that cushion tonight?" Ayami laughs and gently kisses him. Ayami (warmly) "No, we're already a few months ahead of what that is used for." Kinjite looks at her, confused. Kinjite "I thought it was for the married couples first night together." Ayami (smiling) "It is, if they want a child from their first night. It is blessed by both Goddesses, to help with the female's fertility." Kinjite "Oh. Now I understand." That evening... Kinjite is sitting in front of a window and watching the two moons rise. Ayami is sleeping in the bed behind him. He feels the wind blowing on his fur and the coolness seeping into his body. He sees a shooting star streak across the sky and sighs. Kinjite (thinking) < I hope you were able to watch today, mom. I wish you could have been there. You and dad both.> He gets up and walks over to the bed. He slides in and up against Ayami. He closes his eye and drifts off to sleep. Over on the table, a small black tendril glides out of the shadows. It coils up on the table and gently places two roses held together by two rings. One rose and ring is onyx black and the other rose and ring is ivory white. On closer examination, the roses can be seen to be made from jade. A card is gently laid beside them. There is some writing on it. Card "Enjoy our blessings our children" The tendril slowly pulls back into the shadows and disappears. Kinjite and Ayami both wake up and look around. They see the roses on the table and see the note. Ayami (sleepily) "Are those what I think they are?" Kinjite (gently) "Yeah, but I am sure they won't mind if we wait until morning. We've been awake for over a full cycle." They both lay back down and go to sleep. A small tendril slips out and gently writes on the note "We don't mind at all" THE END