One piping-hot serving of suffering, coming up!
A thump, and something muffled. It didn't matter. It was warm and
soft in here. Stay that way.
The sound again. This time, something wrapping around me. Leave me
alone. Sleeping...
“niii-sannn,” came the voice once more.
Without thinking about it, I opened an eye... and then gasped as
there was another face in mine.
“niii-sannn, give me piggy-back ride!” pouted a chocolate-brown
face with a mess of blonde curls.
“mihoshi,” I whispered. “wake up.”
“niiii-saaannnn!” she pouted again. While that was cute, this
situation was entirely inappropriate. Really I know I went to my own
bed last night... I then looked around... and saw that I was
actually on the couch in the main room... with one of the comforters
thrown over me.
Oh. Must have gotten a little more hammered than I had intended.
Guess that's what I get for drinking with the Space Pirate.
“niiii-saannnn!” Mihoshi persisted.
Cute – adorable even – but still not funny.
Nope.
Not one bit.
… Well, maybe I did have it coming. What was I thinking last
night? Yeesh.
“Mihoshi, please wake up,” I pleaded.
“piggyback ride!” said Mihoshi happily. And then the hurting
began.
“AAAAUUUUGGGHHH!!!” I cried out in agony as my ribs splintered.
To be certain, that definitely shook things up, and it was pretty
much a repeat of my arrival here, with a few key differences: 1) they
weren't wondering who the hell I was and 2) I was able to explain
exactly what happened and why thanks to the removal of the language
barrier.
Washu tutted in a disappointed manner as she reviewed my medical
scans.
“What am I going to do with you Garrick?”
Slap me back
together again and stick me out there, read the words that appeared over my head and on the small screen infront of me.
The damage to my ribs and internal organs had been extensive...
Enough that Washu had me on external life-support for the moment
while her medical nanomachines removed bone fragments from my lungs
and liver. It was a very strange sensation to not need to breathe,
let me tell you. I don't really recommend it.
“While I admit this is fun, I can't imagine its very healthy for
you.”
I
rolled my eyes as I typed on the holographic keyboard she'd given me to use, Can't
live in a bell jar forever.
Washu sighed. “No, I guess you can't. But seriously, why you?
Why not anyone else?”
Why indeed.
Murphy's Law, Washu-chan. It's not the one round with your name on
it you need to worry about – it's the ten-thousand other odd rounds
labeled 'Occupant'.
Washu actually snickered at that one and shook her head.
“Military.
All the same.” She then blinked as she had a thought. “Maybe
that's what we should have been aiming for all along here.”
I
glared at her. Don't you dare pack me off to the GP. I
don't care how highly they come recommended – I am not dealing with
police work!
“Oh, stop your whining,” Washu snapped matronly. “I just
wanted to give you the body modification so a little squeeze from
Mihoshi or one of the others doesn't kill you.”
If
I could have sighed, I would have. You know, I'm not
exactly all that eager to give up my humanity.
“Oh? What about all the other interesting things you've been
getting involved in? From what I understand of your psyche, your
idea of self-betterment also applies to upgrades where you can manage
them. Transhumanism does have a certain appeal, doesn't it?”
I gave Washu the sort of look a man gives when their friend walks in
on them in the bathroom oh-so-blithely just to get the stick of
deodorant they left behind... particularly when that friend happens
to be female and appears to be twelve years old.
Stay out of my
head!
“Oh, c'mon Garrick. Like you didn't really anticipate that,
especially when you know I've had to deal with the likes of Doctor
Clay only far too recently for my liking.”
I couldn't sigh, so I just facepalmed.
Fine, fine.
You're right – I should have been more genre savvy. Yeesh. This
oughta teach me to manifest in a place without mad geniuses.
“Well, at least your sense of humor is still working.”
One of the few
things that is right now. But anyhow... Look, can you just make me a
little more durable so nobody accidentally kills me like Mihoshi
almost did?
Washu hummed thoughtfully at that. “I suppose I could. You sure
you don't want enhanced strength or anything like that?”
No longer
lifespans, no super-human powers. I just don't want my damn head
being taken off the moment somebody here sneezes.
“What about faster healing?”
I
thought about that for a moment, then typed, A little bit.
Bear in mind, if I do somehow manage to get hurt with these upgrades
it's probably because I was either in a desperate situation or I was
being monumentally stupid. Which happens sometimes.
“I can understand that. Believe it or not, I too have those
can't-see-the-forrest-for-the-trees moments. Pain deadening?”
Strictly
proportional to adrenal output. Better make that exponentially
proportional. If I'm in a tight spot and it's not serious enough to
warrant immediate attention, then I really don't want to know.
Washu shrugged. “That's how it pretty much works anyhow, but I'll
give your endorphin and adrenal system a tweak. But in the mean
time, there some people who want to see you.”
Washu sauntered off and then Mihoshi came in out of the shadows with
a pensive expression on her face.
“Washu-chan told me you were gonna be okay,” she said. “But I
still feel really bad about what happened. I'm not even supposed to
be able to use my super-strength when I sleep!”
I
shook my head and typed, Shit happens. Washu-chan is
looking into this, but I'm pretty sure that this is absolutely not
your fault, Mihoshi.
“Pretty sure it was the booze,” came Washu's voice echoing from
wherever she was working. “She's never gotten that drunk that
quickly before.”
I
looked to Mihoshi, then typed, There, you see? If anything
it's my fault for bringing out the moonshine. Now that we know, from
now on it's only sake for you, police lady.
“Oh thank goodness!” cried out Mihoshi as she lit up like a
lightbulb. “I was so worried that I might hurt Tenchi-kun, too!”
I smiled and decided to tease her a little. Oh? What about the
old Earth saying, “You always hurt the ones you love”? You
certainly did a number on me! Mihoshi blinked cutely as she cast
her eyes upwards in thought, her fingertips to her lips as she
pondered.
“Hmm... Well, I do like Gar-kun, but not how I like Tenchi-kun...”
She suddenly brightened once more as she exclaimed, “I know now!
Gar-kun is like Mihoshi's older brother! Because Gar-kun is nice
like older brother is, and he is also tough like older brother.”
I raised a speculative eyebrow. You sure about that 'tough' part?
“Broken ribs are painful,” said Mihoshi. “I broke one rib once
and it hurt so much I cried like a baby. But I broke twelve of your
ribs, and punctured your liver and lungs. Even older brother would
scream like you did.”
I shrugged wryly. I guess when you put it that way.
“Okay, times up! It's my turn now!” came Ryoko's voice bawdily
from the entrance.
“Mooouuuu,” pouted Mihoshi cutely.
Oh g'wan you!
Later let's see if you and I can work out a tactical training course
for my C-Space that's worthy of the GXP.
“Oh! That sounds like fun!” exclaimed Mihoshi. “I'll get
Yukinojo's help and we'll have the plans ready in no time!” And
with that she took off at an energetic jog.
I smiled and shook my head as I typed for Ryoko: Tenchi and the
rest of you are gonna have your hands full with her if you don't
learn how to manage her.
“Eh, she's harmless,” Ryoko replied blithely.
I glared at her, then pointedly raised my gown and gestured sharply
to the brilliantly colored bruises on my chest.
Ryoko had the decency to look sheepish. “Eh-heh. Yeah, that's
right. You're a bit squishy, aren't ya?” I rolled my eyes at that
and Ryoko got the message. “Yeah, sorry. Anyhow... Look, I just
wanted to say I really did have fun last night. It's great, you
know, just to kick it with someone that likes to take it easy.
Especially when he does it while drinking. Just do me a favor and
don't die on us, okay? Hate to lose my drinking buddy just like
that.”
As long as
you're there to watch my back, Buddy,
I typed back at her with a grin.
“Hah! You got it. I have to get going now. Tenchi wanted to say
hi.”
Sure thing.
Catch ya later.
Ryoko and I exchanged a high-five before she sauntered off. As she
and Tenchi passed each other, she gave him a saucy wink and that
surprised the poor guy.
“Ah, hi Garrick. You doing okay?”
As well as I
can. Washu-chan does good work when she feels moved to do so.
He laughed nervously. “Yeah, I guess she does... but... I don't
know... Are you really okay, Garrick?”
I gave him a look. There was nothing special about it. It was flat
– could feel in in the way my brows suddenly felt so heavy over my
eyes. But there must have been something in my eyes as I typed the
words...
I will be,
Tenchi. I have to be.
“Wait a minute, what do you mean by that?”
Tenchi... I've
introspected quite a bit in my lifetime, and there is one thing I've
learned about myself is that I deal well with suffering. I've had my
hopes crushed, my merits squandered, and dreams turned to ash. I
have been ridiculed, embarrassed, harassed, neglected, and scorned.
And yet despite
everything, for some reason I have persevered. Somehow, somewhere in
my upbringing, I had gained the sense that no matter what happens, no
matter how unbearable and painful life has become, the only direction
to go is forward.
And now, it
seems that the penultimate in cruel fates has been perpetrated upon
me. The road back is gone, and the only path is the one that lies
before me. So I will continue on as I have, Tenchi. Ever forwards,
no matter how often I stumble and fall.
“Garrick,” Tenchi began slowly, but surely. “I'm glad that you
have that strength. For a little bit, I really was worried about
you.”
I
smiled ruefully. Don't get me wrong, Tenchi. I am
hurting. Not just from Mihoshi's misplaced affections... but you
get what I mean. I'm just glad that I wound up here.
Tenchi smiled. “I know what you mean. These people... they're
wonderful.”
I
smiled back at him slyly. Oh yes. Such wonderful girls
you mean.
“Huh?” Tenchi replied, blinking cluelessly.
Those girls all
love you, and you love all them... but you can't decide for yourself
if you love one over the other. Am I right?
“Er... yeah, right so far,” said Tenchi nervously.
So, here's what
you do: you start taking them out on dates.
“DATES!?” cried out Tenchi. “Altogether!?”
Of course not
you goof! One at a time, they each get a turn with you.
“Ah... okay... but why?”
EPIC FACEPALM 2X COMBO!
Tenchi... The
girls all love you, and you love them, but you won't make a
gods-be-damned move! Why the hell do you think things get so
fraggin' out of hand here!? They get so antsy and full of nervous
energy they don't know what to do with it... well, at least Ayeka and
Ryoko don't. Sasami, Washu, and Mihoshi all have their hobbies to
help them relieve the tension.
Tenchi's eyes went wide. “You mean that's why they fight all the
time!?”
It's a factor.
Probably the biggest one for sure, but still, just one factor. I've
been talking to them, as you've probably noticed. I've had yet to
talk to you about this matter, but now, here we are.
“Waituhminute... why would you do that?”
Look, Tenchi, I
like a little bit of drama now and then, but not all the time and not
when it can easily devolve into laser death-blades flying all over
the place and kiloton punches and kicks being thrown around. As
we've seen today, I go squish pretty easily, so this is every bit as
much me looking out for my own interests as well as your own.
“But... Washu-chan could-”
I
stopped him with a sharp, cutting gesture, then typed, Washu-chan
can do a lot of things. She's a regular miracle worker. But what
we're not gonna do is go turning me into some immortal
nigh-invincible ultimate unstoppable force. I wouldn't be Human
anymore if she did that and I think she agrees with me. Granted, I
am getting some stuff to help make me tougher and recover a bit
faster, but that's about it – I'm not getting the full blown GP
Body Modification.
“I... see then,” said Tenchi, his eyes downcast. “I never
really thought of it before. I mean... I thought it was strange that
I've gotten through such bad situations before... but now that you're
here I've seen that... Well, I guess that since Mother was
half-Juraian... it only makes sense that I'd be tougher than a normal
human.”
Oi, don't be
getting down on me, Tenchi-kun. You have to understand that no
matter what you learn about yourself, you're still the same person
you are. You just have a better understanding of that person is all.
Remember: the focus of introspection should be to figure out how you
got to this point, not what might have or could have been.
Tenchi's eyes widened in shock as his gaze snapped to mine. “Oh
wow! Jeeze!” He then shook his head and went on, “Damn, I can
be such an idiot sometimes. You really must be older than the rest
of us.”
I
laughed... but no sound came out. My lungs were still out of
commission. But Tenchi seemed to get the idea anyhow as I typed,
Washu-chan and Yosho don't count. I'm only 36, going on
37.
Tenchi laughed back at me. “You're twenty years older than I am!
You sure you're not half-alien, too?”
I
smirked. Technically speaking, I am an alien.
Interdimensional refugees count, don't'cha know?
Tenchi snorted. “Everyone I know is an alien. I guess it can't be
helped then. After all, what's one more?”
My smirk became an all-out grin. That's the spirit, Tenchi-kun.
Now then, about these dates... Tenchi's good cheer evaporated in
a groan. Will you relax? I got something special in mind. First
up will be Ryoko and I will chaperon. Since all my paperwork is in
order, I'll have Washu-chan transport us up to Yokosuka.
Tenchi blinked. “But why Yokosuka?”
I grinned. Because it's one of the few places in all of Japan
where you can get an American-style burger. Trust me on this –
Ryoko will love it, and you probably will too. We'll go onto the
Naval base and I'll show you guys around – give you the nickel
tour. After that, I'll take you two up to Yokohama and turn you
loose there. I highly recommend that you take her to Cosmo World –
she'll have a blast.
“She will?” Tenchi said in surprise.
What could be
better? Morning spent getting a guided tour of a foreign military
base, food by people that live it up the way she likes to, and then
an afternoon spent with the guy she likes the most, just taking it
easy and having fun.
Tenchi shook his head in shock. “I am such an idiot.”
I
shook my head. No. You're just inexperienced. This is
part of why Sasami-chan wants me to be your older brother.
And with that I reached over and playfully scruffled Tenchi's hair.
“Hey!” hissed Tenchi as he ducked away. “I'm not a kid!”
I rolled my eyes and typed, Admits I'm twenty years older than
him, and then says not to treat him like a kid. Typical.
“I have my pride you know,” he grumbled.
Swallow a bit.
It builds character.
“Oh dear!” came a cultured voice at just the right volume. “I
must be interrupting! I'll be on my way.”
I waved urgently to Princess Ayeka, bidding her to come over.
Blinking, she did and and I typed,
No no! It's
quite alright. Lord Tenchi and I have had plenty of time to chat.
I then turned to Tenchi with a grin as I typed, We'll talk
more about this later on in private.
“Ah, sure!” said Tenchi nervously as he rubbed the back of his
head. He then turned and quickly left with a parting call of, “get
well soon, Garrick.”
Ayeka stared after him, mystified at his hasty departure. “I
wonder what's gotten into him?”
I
couldn't laugh, but I could pound the side of my bed. Lord
Tenchi and I were discussing what he should do about you and the rest
of his paramours.
“What!?” cried Ayeka, scandalized.
Oh, calm down
Princess! Don't burst a blood vessel – you knew this was coming.
Ayeka composed herself, saying, “Well yes, it's one thing to
know... but it's another to hear it put so blithely.”
My apologies,
I typed with a sheepish expression. I am renowned for my
brutal honesty. But we're digressing, milady. I must say, I am
happy you did come to see me.
“Well of course I would. You can't honestly say that you thought I
wouldn't come, can you?”
Of course not.
You're your mother's daughter, after all.
Ayeka gave me a confused look. “What do you mean by that?”
I
smiled and gestured to the bedside hover-cushion. Come,
have a seat and we'll talk.
“As you wish.” She strode over with proper, lady-like movements
and gracefully and decorously lowered herself onto the floating
cushion. “Now, what is it you wish to discuss, Garrick?”
I apologize,
Princess, if this is the first you've heard of it... but I'm pretty
sure you've heard there are plans in the works to adopt me into the
Royal Family.
Ayeka sighed. “The seed was a big hint. I got the rest of the
story from Sasami. If it weren't for the fact that Funaho herself is
originally from here then I might wonder what in Tsunami's name Seto
is thinking.”
You think I'm
not cut out for it?
“Yes and no, Garrick. Some aspects of you would fit well. You
certainly have a charisma about you that the common people would find
mystifying. But the rest of the Nobility might find you... wanting
for refinement.”
And thus the
seed.
Ayeka nodded solemnly. “Lady Seto has her reasons, Garrick. For
one thing, she does like to spoil Sasami, and nothing would make
Sasami happier that being able to call you her Big Brother and really
mean it. For another, she does not want you to suffer the same
stigma Funaho suffered. Caring for a Royal Tree is one of the
highest honors of common folk. They are respected even by Father for
the role they play. In fact, some of the nobility even got their
start that way.”
Ah! Like
squires to their knights!
“Indeed,” replied Ayeka with a pleased smile that I read as 'By
George, I think he's got it!' Her look then became serious as she
went on, “Remember that well, Garrick – if you are adopted into
the family, you will indeed have been elevated to a rather lofty
position, technically speaking, of course. However, in the eyes of
the nobility you will be nothing more than an upstart and a potential
threat.” Her eyes suddenly took on a worried cast. “Tread
carefully, my brother.”
My eyes widened in surprise at that last bit... not so much the
warning to tread carefully, but the fact she called me her brother.
And then to drive the point home, she suddenly leaned towards me, her
face darting to my right... and as suddenly as I realized it, she
pulled away from the chaste kiss she had given me.
She took in my shocked expression and said, “Do not worry, dear
brother. I love Lord Tenchi more than anything else... but that
doesn't mean I don't have room in my heart for anyone else.” She
then shook her head in rueful amusement. “You are such a clever
thief, stealing girls hearts the way you do. How did you ever not
find someone to marry?”
I
shrugged helplessly and typed, I don't know. Probably a
lack of girls actually looking for husbands. Anytime I met a really
special girl... you know, the sort who's got that smile that can
light a world... the one that makes ordinary and mundane adornments
seems mystical and and hypnotic... the one who's very presence makes
you take notice... They are always already with someone else... and
always that someone else understands just what kind of treasure they
have. And I don't have the evil in me to steal it from them.
Ayeka gave me a fascinated look. “Tell me more about this girl,”
she said.
I smiled. It was at training for a job – the details don't
matter. I saw her in the lobby, waiting with everyone else. She was
a dainty little woman – shorter than even you, and yet so perfectly
proportioned that you might have taken her as some sort oversized
doll. She had this delightfully flirty skirt on and a set of strappy
pumps with her ankles adorned with all kinds of bangles and beads.
She had a glorious fall of dark hair and these eyes and sparkled with
amusement anytime she looked at you.
I couldn't talk
to her at first. Two other men had already gotten her attention and
they spent a lot of time over the next few days talking with her
about all sorts of things. Eventually, though, I managed to find her
alone, for the most part, and I did talk with her. But it turned out
that she not only had a man in her life, but a child as well.
I suppose it
would be just as well. They weren't married – she was a free
spirit... too free to allow herself to be shackled by the idea of
being married. And I don't think I could have tolerated such an
existence for too long.
Suddenly I was glomped from the side opposite Ayeka. Turning, I saw
that Sasami had attached herself to my like a limpet.
“Gar-nii-san has the worst luck,” she lamented.
I looked to Ayeka, who simply smiled and reached over to rub the back
of Sasami's head, which was firmly embedded in my side.
I smiled wanly and typed, Maybe, my adorable Sasami-imouto... but
I think it's coming around. After all, I have such wonderful sisters
now. I can wait for a woman to wish to be my wife.
“Okay, no more keyboard for you,” came Washu's voice as she
approached. “Your lungs are just fine now so you can go ahead and
use 'em. I'll go ahead and turn off the neural interdiction now.”
A holographic control pannel appeared at Washu's side as she reached
up, and then entered a complex series of keys without any markings.
Suddenly my diaphragm twitched and sent me into a coughing fit as I
got myself back into sorts.
“Ah, thanks,” I said once the worst was past. I was still trying
to get my throat fully cleared – it felt so phlegmy.
“Brother,” said Ayeka, begging a question, “is it really
important to you that the woman you love marries you?”
I shrugged and said with a rough voice, “Not so much the legal
definition... just that she swears herself to me – a vow to be
there for me when I need her, and for me the same to her. A real
partner in life, as it were. We share joys and sorrows, we make
babies and raise them together, and we stick together no matter how
tough it gets.”
Washu tutted disdainfully. “You're right. As special as that
other girl was, you wouldn't have been able to tolerate that sort of
mindset for long. You've been hurt so much in the past that
demanding such an oath is almost automatic. You need that sense of
security – and I don't mean that lightly. It's not an unhealthy
thing, either. Really, how much do you love a person if you're not
going to promise something like that? It really seems naïve of
her.”
“Indeed,” agreed Ayeka. “In fact, I almost sorry for that
girl. What must have happened to her to make her afraid of making a
commitment like that?”
I sighed – never had it felt so good to do that – and said, “I
have no idea, but Washu-chan is right. With everything else in my
life being as unstable as it was, the last thing I needed was a
girlfriend who had commitment issues. Anyhow... How much longer do I
gotta sit here, Doc?”
Washu smiled – it was almost a loving look. “Just a few more
hours, Gar-kun. However, a lot of your resources are being expended
– not only to repair the damage done, but also make the
modifications you requested. I'll need to give you a couple more
nutrient injections, and then you'll need a nap.”
“Okay. What about the modifications?”
“They shouldn't impact your lifestyle at all. Your skin,
connective tissues, and pretty much everything else are being
reinforced with carbon monofilament weaves, and your bones will have
monomolecular carbon rods reinforcing them.”
“That's a lot of carbon. Where's it all coming from?”
“Your body's waste byproducts for now. A lot of it is from my
nanomachines striping the carbon atoms out of the CO2
molecules and just turning the remaining O2 loose in your
bloodstream. However, I'll still need to inject you with some
elemental carbon in a liquid suspension to help speed things up.”
I shrugged once more and rolled my sleeve up. “No time like the
present.”
I fell asleep soon after that and I had a dream of being a child
again. I was playing a forest full of grand, ancient trees. These
trees were the welcome sort – tall, but easy to climb. It was
peaceful. Sunny. Warm. With a cool breeze, the blue sky full of
white, puffy clouds, and the air filled with the smell of wood,
earth, leaves, and the call of the cicadas.
One tree was especially large and beautiful. It was special. I
loved climbing it, walking its marvelously twisty paths and finding
all kinds of hiding places and perches.
But even though I felt that I had the company of these wonderful
trees... I still wished that I had friends...
As soon as I had thought it, they were all there. The other children
– mostly girls. I liked girls. They were fun. The boys were okay
too. We would do boy-things together. But the girls... oh how I
loved to tease them. They were always so funny when they would run
away squealing. Or even when I made one or two a little angry –
that was even more fun because then they'd chase me! But they were
having fun, too. I could see it in their eyes.
But most of all...
I could feel the trees all around us, watching us fondly. Lovingly.
Like a grandparent watches their descendents playing in their yard.
Especially the grandest one.
She would protect us all when we needed it the most.
That's it for now! The next part will start with a short timeskip into the next year, and then we'll start getting into the Manga storyline.
Hint: Garrick has an ADHD moment. Pity poor Minagi-chan. She simply won't know what hit her.
A thump, and something muffled. It didn't matter. It was warm and
soft in here. Stay that way.
The sound again. This time, something wrapping around me. Leave me
alone. Sleeping...
“niii-sannn,” came the voice once more.
Without thinking about it, I opened an eye... and then gasped as
there was another face in mine.
“niii-sannn, give me piggy-back ride!” pouted a chocolate-brown
face with a mess of blonde curls.
“mihoshi,” I whispered. “wake up.”
“niiii-saaannnn!” she pouted again. While that was cute, this
situation was entirely inappropriate. Really I know I went to my own
bed last night... I then looked around... and saw that I was
actually on the couch in the main room... with one of the comforters
thrown over me.
Oh. Must have gotten a little more hammered than I had intended.
Guess that's what I get for drinking with the Space Pirate.
“niiii-saannnn!” Mihoshi persisted.
Cute – adorable even – but still not funny.
Nope.
Not one bit.
… Well, maybe I did have it coming. What was I thinking last
night? Yeesh.
“Mihoshi, please wake up,” I pleaded.
“piggyback ride!” said Mihoshi happily. And then the hurting
began.
“AAAAUUUUGGGHHH!!!” I cried out in agony as my ribs splintered.
To be certain, that definitely shook things up, and it was pretty
much a repeat of my arrival here, with a few key differences: 1) they
weren't wondering who the hell I was and 2) I was able to explain
exactly what happened and why thanks to the removal of the language
barrier.
Washu tutted in a disappointed manner as she reviewed my medical
scans.
“What am I going to do with you Garrick?”
Slap me back
together again and stick me out there, read the words that appeared over my head and on the small screen infront of me.
The damage to my ribs and internal organs had been extensive...
Enough that Washu had me on external life-support for the moment
while her medical nanomachines removed bone fragments from my lungs
and liver. It was a very strange sensation to not need to breathe,
let me tell you. I don't really recommend it.
“While I admit this is fun, I can't imagine its very healthy for
you.”
I
rolled my eyes as I typed on the holographic keyboard she'd given me to use, Can't
live in a bell jar forever.
Washu sighed. “No, I guess you can't. But seriously, why you?
Why not anyone else?”
Why indeed.
Murphy's Law, Washu-chan. It's not the one round with your name on
it you need to worry about – it's the ten-thousand other odd rounds
labeled 'Occupant'.
Washu actually snickered at that one and shook her head.
“Military.
All the same.” She then blinked as she had a thought. “Maybe
that's what we should have been aiming for all along here.”
I
glared at her. Don't you dare pack me off to the GP. I
don't care how highly they come recommended – I am not dealing with
police work!
“Oh, stop your whining,” Washu snapped matronly. “I just
wanted to give you the body modification so a little squeeze from
Mihoshi or one of the others doesn't kill you.”
If
I could have sighed, I would have. You know, I'm not
exactly all that eager to give up my humanity.
“Oh? What about all the other interesting things you've been
getting involved in? From what I understand of your psyche, your
idea of self-betterment also applies to upgrades where you can manage
them. Transhumanism does have a certain appeal, doesn't it?”
I gave Washu the sort of look a man gives when their friend walks in
on them in the bathroom oh-so-blithely just to get the stick of
deodorant they left behind... particularly when that friend happens
to be female and appears to be twelve years old.
Stay out of my
head!
“Oh, c'mon Garrick. Like you didn't really anticipate that,
especially when you know I've had to deal with the likes of Doctor
Clay only far too recently for my liking.”
I couldn't sigh, so I just facepalmed.
Fine, fine.
You're right – I should have been more genre savvy. Yeesh. This
oughta teach me to manifest in a place without mad geniuses.
“Well, at least your sense of humor is still working.”
One of the few
things that is right now. But anyhow... Look, can you just make me a
little more durable so nobody accidentally kills me like Mihoshi
almost did?
Washu hummed thoughtfully at that. “I suppose I could. You sure
you don't want enhanced strength or anything like that?”
No longer
lifespans, no super-human powers. I just don't want my damn head
being taken off the moment somebody here sneezes.
“What about faster healing?”
I
thought about that for a moment, then typed, A little bit.
Bear in mind, if I do somehow manage to get hurt with these upgrades
it's probably because I was either in a desperate situation or I was
being monumentally stupid. Which happens sometimes.
“I can understand that. Believe it or not, I too have those
can't-see-the-forrest-for-the-trees moments. Pain deadening?”
Strictly
proportional to adrenal output. Better make that exponentially
proportional. If I'm in a tight spot and it's not serious enough to
warrant immediate attention, then I really don't want to know.
Washu shrugged. “That's how it pretty much works anyhow, but I'll
give your endorphin and adrenal system a tweak. But in the mean
time, there some people who want to see you.”
Washu sauntered off and then Mihoshi came in out of the shadows with
a pensive expression on her face.
“Washu-chan told me you were gonna be okay,” she said. “But I
still feel really bad about what happened. I'm not even supposed to
be able to use my super-strength when I sleep!”
I
shook my head and typed, Shit happens. Washu-chan is
looking into this, but I'm pretty sure that this is absolutely not
your fault, Mihoshi.
“Pretty sure it was the booze,” came Washu's voice echoing from
wherever she was working. “She's never gotten that drunk that
quickly before.”
I
looked to Mihoshi, then typed, There, you see? If anything
it's my fault for bringing out the moonshine. Now that we know, from
now on it's only sake for you, police lady.
“Oh thank goodness!” cried out Mihoshi as she lit up like a
lightbulb. “I was so worried that I might hurt Tenchi-kun, too!”
I smiled and decided to tease her a little. Oh? What about the
old Earth saying, “You always hurt the ones you love”? You
certainly did a number on me! Mihoshi blinked cutely as she cast
her eyes upwards in thought, her fingertips to her lips as she
pondered.
“Hmm... Well, I do like Gar-kun, but not how I like Tenchi-kun...”
She suddenly brightened once more as she exclaimed, “I know now!
Gar-kun is like Mihoshi's older brother! Because Gar-kun is nice
like older brother is, and he is also tough like older brother.”
I raised a speculative eyebrow. You sure about that 'tough' part?
“Broken ribs are painful,” said Mihoshi. “I broke one rib once
and it hurt so much I cried like a baby. But I broke twelve of your
ribs, and punctured your liver and lungs. Even older brother would
scream like you did.”
I shrugged wryly. I guess when you put it that way.
“Okay, times up! It's my turn now!” came Ryoko's voice bawdily
from the entrance.
“Mooouuuu,” pouted Mihoshi cutely.
Oh g'wan you!
Later let's see if you and I can work out a tactical training course
for my C-Space that's worthy of the GXP.
“Oh! That sounds like fun!” exclaimed Mihoshi. “I'll get
Yukinojo's help and we'll have the plans ready in no time!” And
with that she took off at an energetic jog.
I smiled and shook my head as I typed for Ryoko: Tenchi and the
rest of you are gonna have your hands full with her if you don't
learn how to manage her.
“Eh, she's harmless,” Ryoko replied blithely.
I glared at her, then pointedly raised my gown and gestured sharply
to the brilliantly colored bruises on my chest.
Ryoko had the decency to look sheepish. “Eh-heh. Yeah, that's
right. You're a bit squishy, aren't ya?” I rolled my eyes at that
and Ryoko got the message. “Yeah, sorry. Anyhow... Look, I just
wanted to say I really did have fun last night. It's great, you
know, just to kick it with someone that likes to take it easy.
Especially when he does it while drinking. Just do me a favor and
don't die on us, okay? Hate to lose my drinking buddy just like
that.”
As long as
you're there to watch my back, Buddy,
I typed back at her with a grin.
“Hah! You got it. I have to get going now. Tenchi wanted to say
hi.”
Sure thing.
Catch ya later.
Ryoko and I exchanged a high-five before she sauntered off. As she
and Tenchi passed each other, she gave him a saucy wink and that
surprised the poor guy.
“Ah, hi Garrick. You doing okay?”
As well as I
can. Washu-chan does good work when she feels moved to do so.
He laughed nervously. “Yeah, I guess she does... but... I don't
know... Are you really okay, Garrick?”
I gave him a look. There was nothing special about it. It was flat
– could feel in in the way my brows suddenly felt so heavy over my
eyes. But there must have been something in my eyes as I typed the
words...
I will be,
Tenchi. I have to be.
“Wait a minute, what do you mean by that?”
Tenchi... I've
introspected quite a bit in my lifetime, and there is one thing I've
learned about myself is that I deal well with suffering. I've had my
hopes crushed, my merits squandered, and dreams turned to ash. I
have been ridiculed, embarrassed, harassed, neglected, and scorned.
And yet despite
everything, for some reason I have persevered. Somehow, somewhere in
my upbringing, I had gained the sense that no matter what happens, no
matter how unbearable and painful life has become, the only direction
to go is forward.
And now, it
seems that the penultimate in cruel fates has been perpetrated upon
me. The road back is gone, and the only path is the one that lies
before me. So I will continue on as I have, Tenchi. Ever forwards,
no matter how often I stumble and fall.
“Garrick,” Tenchi began slowly, but surely. “I'm glad that you
have that strength. For a little bit, I really was worried about
you.”
I
smiled ruefully. Don't get me wrong, Tenchi. I am
hurting. Not just from Mihoshi's misplaced affections... but you
get what I mean. I'm just glad that I wound up here.
Tenchi smiled. “I know what you mean. These people... they're
wonderful.”
I
smiled back at him slyly. Oh yes. Such wonderful girls
you mean.
“Huh?” Tenchi replied, blinking cluelessly.
Those girls all
love you, and you love all them... but you can't decide for yourself
if you love one over the other. Am I right?
“Er... yeah, right so far,” said Tenchi nervously.
So, here's what
you do: you start taking them out on dates.
“DATES!?” cried out Tenchi. “Altogether!?”
Of course not
you goof! One at a time, they each get a turn with you.
“Ah... okay... but why?”
EPIC FACEPALM 2X COMBO!
Tenchi... The
girls all love you, and you love them, but you won't make a
gods-be-damned move! Why the hell do you think things get so
fraggin' out of hand here!? They get so antsy and full of nervous
energy they don't know what to do with it... well, at least Ayeka and
Ryoko don't. Sasami, Washu, and Mihoshi all have their hobbies to
help them relieve the tension.
Tenchi's eyes went wide. “You mean that's why they fight all the
time!?”
It's a factor.
Probably the biggest one for sure, but still, just one factor. I've
been talking to them, as you've probably noticed. I've had yet to
talk to you about this matter, but now, here we are.
“Waituhminute... why would you do that?”
Look, Tenchi, I
like a little bit of drama now and then, but not all the time and not
when it can easily devolve into laser death-blades flying all over
the place and kiloton punches and kicks being thrown around. As
we've seen today, I go squish pretty easily, so this is every bit as
much me looking out for my own interests as well as your own.
“But... Washu-chan could-”
I
stopped him with a sharp, cutting gesture, then typed, Washu-chan
can do a lot of things. She's a regular miracle worker. But what
we're not gonna do is go turning me into some immortal
nigh-invincible ultimate unstoppable force. I wouldn't be Human
anymore if she did that and I think she agrees with me. Granted, I
am getting some stuff to help make me tougher and recover a bit
faster, but that's about it – I'm not getting the full blown GP
Body Modification.
“I... see then,” said Tenchi, his eyes downcast. “I never
really thought of it before. I mean... I thought it was strange that
I've gotten through such bad situations before... but now that you're
here I've seen that... Well, I guess that since Mother was
half-Juraian... it only makes sense that I'd be tougher than a normal
human.”
Oi, don't be
getting down on me, Tenchi-kun. You have to understand that no
matter what you learn about yourself, you're still the same person
you are. You just have a better understanding of that person is all.
Remember: the focus of introspection should be to figure out how you
got to this point, not what might have or could have been.
Tenchi's eyes widened in shock as his gaze snapped to mine. “Oh
wow! Jeeze!” He then shook his head and went on, “Damn, I can
be such an idiot sometimes. You really must be older than the rest
of us.”
I
laughed... but no sound came out. My lungs were still out of
commission. But Tenchi seemed to get the idea anyhow as I typed,
Washu-chan and Yosho don't count. I'm only 36, going on
37.
Tenchi laughed back at me. “You're twenty years older than I am!
You sure you're not half-alien, too?”
I
smirked. Technically speaking, I am an alien.
Interdimensional refugees count, don't'cha know?
Tenchi snorted. “Everyone I know is an alien. I guess it can't be
helped then. After all, what's one more?”
My smirk became an all-out grin. That's the spirit, Tenchi-kun.
Now then, about these dates... Tenchi's good cheer evaporated in
a groan. Will you relax? I got something special in mind. First
up will be Ryoko and I will chaperon. Since all my paperwork is in
order, I'll have Washu-chan transport us up to Yokosuka.
Tenchi blinked. “But why Yokosuka?”
I grinned. Because it's one of the few places in all of Japan
where you can get an American-style burger. Trust me on this –
Ryoko will love it, and you probably will too. We'll go onto the
Naval base and I'll show you guys around – give you the nickel
tour. After that, I'll take you two up to Yokohama and turn you
loose there. I highly recommend that you take her to Cosmo World –
she'll have a blast.
“She will?” Tenchi said in surprise.
What could be
better? Morning spent getting a guided tour of a foreign military
base, food by people that live it up the way she likes to, and then
an afternoon spent with the guy she likes the most, just taking it
easy and having fun.
Tenchi shook his head in shock. “I am such an idiot.”
I
shook my head. No. You're just inexperienced. This is
part of why Sasami-chan wants me to be your older brother.
And with that I reached over and playfully scruffled Tenchi's hair.
“Hey!” hissed Tenchi as he ducked away. “I'm not a kid!”
I rolled my eyes and typed, Admits I'm twenty years older than
him, and then says not to treat him like a kid. Typical.
“I have my pride you know,” he grumbled.
Swallow a bit.
It builds character.
“Oh dear!” came a cultured voice at just the right volume. “I
must be interrupting! I'll be on my way.”
I waved urgently to Princess Ayeka, bidding her to come over.
Blinking, she did and and I typed,
No no! It's
quite alright. Lord Tenchi and I have had plenty of time to chat.
I then turned to Tenchi with a grin as I typed, We'll talk
more about this later on in private.
“Ah, sure!” said Tenchi nervously as he rubbed the back of his
head. He then turned and quickly left with a parting call of, “get
well soon, Garrick.”
Ayeka stared after him, mystified at his hasty departure. “I
wonder what's gotten into him?”
I
couldn't laugh, but I could pound the side of my bed. Lord
Tenchi and I were discussing what he should do about you and the rest
of his paramours.
“What!?” cried Ayeka, scandalized.
Oh, calm down
Princess! Don't burst a blood vessel – you knew this was coming.
Ayeka composed herself, saying, “Well yes, it's one thing to
know... but it's another to hear it put so blithely.”
My apologies,
I typed with a sheepish expression. I am renowned for my
brutal honesty. But we're digressing, milady. I must say, I am
happy you did come to see me.
“Well of course I would. You can't honestly say that you thought I
wouldn't come, can you?”
Of course not.
You're your mother's daughter, after all.
Ayeka gave me a confused look. “What do you mean by that?”
I
smiled and gestured to the bedside hover-cushion. Come,
have a seat and we'll talk.
“As you wish.” She strode over with proper, lady-like movements
and gracefully and decorously lowered herself onto the floating
cushion. “Now, what is it you wish to discuss, Garrick?”
I apologize,
Princess, if this is the first you've heard of it... but I'm pretty
sure you've heard there are plans in the works to adopt me into the
Royal Family.
Ayeka sighed. “The seed was a big hint. I got the rest of the
story from Sasami. If it weren't for the fact that Funaho herself is
originally from here then I might wonder what in Tsunami's name Seto
is thinking.”
You think I'm
not cut out for it?
“Yes and no, Garrick. Some aspects of you would fit well. You
certainly have a charisma about you that the common people would find
mystifying. But the rest of the Nobility might find you... wanting
for refinement.”
And thus the
seed.
Ayeka nodded solemnly. “Lady Seto has her reasons, Garrick. For
one thing, she does like to spoil Sasami, and nothing would make
Sasami happier that being able to call you her Big Brother and really
mean it. For another, she does not want you to suffer the same
stigma Funaho suffered. Caring for a Royal Tree is one of the
highest honors of common folk. They are respected even by Father for
the role they play. In fact, some of the nobility even got their
start that way.”
Ah! Like
squires to their knights!
“Indeed,” replied Ayeka with a pleased smile that I read as 'By
George, I think he's got it!' Her look then became serious as she
went on, “Remember that well, Garrick – if you are adopted into
the family, you will indeed have been elevated to a rather lofty
position, technically speaking, of course. However, in the eyes of
the nobility you will be nothing more than an upstart and a potential
threat.” Her eyes suddenly took on a worried cast. “Tread
carefully, my brother.”
My eyes widened in surprise at that last bit... not so much the
warning to tread carefully, but the fact she called me her brother.
And then to drive the point home, she suddenly leaned towards me, her
face darting to my right... and as suddenly as I realized it, she
pulled away from the chaste kiss she had given me.
She took in my shocked expression and said, “Do not worry, dear
brother. I love Lord Tenchi more than anything else... but that
doesn't mean I don't have room in my heart for anyone else.” She
then shook her head in rueful amusement. “You are such a clever
thief, stealing girls hearts the way you do. How did you ever not
find someone to marry?”
I
shrugged helplessly and typed, I don't know. Probably a
lack of girls actually looking for husbands. Anytime I met a really
special girl... you know, the sort who's got that smile that can
light a world... the one that makes ordinary and mundane adornments
seems mystical and and hypnotic... the one who's very presence makes
you take notice... They are always already with someone else... and
always that someone else understands just what kind of treasure they
have. And I don't have the evil in me to steal it from them.
Ayeka gave me a fascinated look. “Tell me more about this girl,”
she said.
I smiled. It was at training for a job – the details don't
matter. I saw her in the lobby, waiting with everyone else. She was
a dainty little woman – shorter than even you, and yet so perfectly
proportioned that you might have taken her as some sort oversized
doll. She had this delightfully flirty skirt on and a set of strappy
pumps with her ankles adorned with all kinds of bangles and beads.
She had a glorious fall of dark hair and these eyes and sparkled with
amusement anytime she looked at you.
I couldn't talk
to her at first. Two other men had already gotten her attention and
they spent a lot of time over the next few days talking with her
about all sorts of things. Eventually, though, I managed to find her
alone, for the most part, and I did talk with her. But it turned out
that she not only had a man in her life, but a child as well.
I suppose it
would be just as well. They weren't married – she was a free
spirit... too free to allow herself to be shackled by the idea of
being married. And I don't think I could have tolerated such an
existence for too long.
Suddenly I was glomped from the side opposite Ayeka. Turning, I saw
that Sasami had attached herself to my like a limpet.
“Gar-nii-san has the worst luck,” she lamented.
I looked to Ayeka, who simply smiled and reached over to rub the back
of Sasami's head, which was firmly embedded in my side.
I smiled wanly and typed, Maybe, my adorable Sasami-imouto... but
I think it's coming around. After all, I have such wonderful sisters
now. I can wait for a woman to wish to be my wife.
“Okay, no more keyboard for you,” came Washu's voice as she
approached. “Your lungs are just fine now so you can go ahead and
use 'em. I'll go ahead and turn off the neural interdiction now.”
A holographic control pannel appeared at Washu's side as she reached
up, and then entered a complex series of keys without any markings.
Suddenly my diaphragm twitched and sent me into a coughing fit as I
got myself back into sorts.
“Ah, thanks,” I said once the worst was past. I was still trying
to get my throat fully cleared – it felt so phlegmy.
“Brother,” said Ayeka, begging a question, “is it really
important to you that the woman you love marries you?”
I shrugged and said with a rough voice, “Not so much the legal
definition... just that she swears herself to me – a vow to be
there for me when I need her, and for me the same to her. A real
partner in life, as it were. We share joys and sorrows, we make
babies and raise them together, and we stick together no matter how
tough it gets.”
Washu tutted disdainfully. “You're right. As special as that
other girl was, you wouldn't have been able to tolerate that sort of
mindset for long. You've been hurt so much in the past that
demanding such an oath is almost automatic. You need that sense of
security – and I don't mean that lightly. It's not an unhealthy
thing, either. Really, how much do you love a person if you're not
going to promise something like that? It really seems naïve of
her.”
“Indeed,” agreed Ayeka. “In fact, I almost sorry for that
girl. What must have happened to her to make her afraid of making a
commitment like that?”
I sighed – never had it felt so good to do that – and said, “I
have no idea, but Washu-chan is right. With everything else in my
life being as unstable as it was, the last thing I needed was a
girlfriend who had commitment issues. Anyhow... How much longer do I
gotta sit here, Doc?”
Washu smiled – it was almost a loving look. “Just a few more
hours, Gar-kun. However, a lot of your resources are being expended
– not only to repair the damage done, but also make the
modifications you requested. I'll need to give you a couple more
nutrient injections, and then you'll need a nap.”
“Okay. What about the modifications?”
“They shouldn't impact your lifestyle at all. Your skin,
connective tissues, and pretty much everything else are being
reinforced with carbon monofilament weaves, and your bones will have
monomolecular carbon rods reinforcing them.”
“That's a lot of carbon. Where's it all coming from?”
“Your body's waste byproducts for now. A lot of it is from my
nanomachines striping the carbon atoms out of the CO2
molecules and just turning the remaining O2 loose in your
bloodstream. However, I'll still need to inject you with some
elemental carbon in a liquid suspension to help speed things up.”
I shrugged once more and rolled my sleeve up. “No time like the
present.”
I fell asleep soon after that and I had a dream of being a child
again. I was playing a forest full of grand, ancient trees. These
trees were the welcome sort – tall, but easy to climb. It was
peaceful. Sunny. Warm. With a cool breeze, the blue sky full of
white, puffy clouds, and the air filled with the smell of wood,
earth, leaves, and the call of the cicadas.
One tree was especially large and beautiful. It was special. I
loved climbing it, walking its marvelously twisty paths and finding
all kinds of hiding places and perches.
But even though I felt that I had the company of these wonderful
trees... I still wished that I had friends...
As soon as I had thought it, they were all there. The other children
– mostly girls. I liked girls. They were fun. The boys were okay
too. We would do boy-things together. But the girls... oh how I
loved to tease them. They were always so funny when they would run
away squealing. Or even when I made one or two a little angry –
that was even more fun because then they'd chase me! But they were
having fun, too. I could see it in their eyes.
But most of all...
I could feel the trees all around us, watching us fondly. Lovingly.
Like a grandparent watches their descendents playing in their yard.
Especially the grandest one.
She would protect us all when we needed it the most.
That's it for now! The next part will start with a short timeskip into the next year, and then we'll start getting into the Manga storyline.
Hint: Garrick has an ADHD moment. Pity poor Minagi-chan. She simply won't know what hit her.