"Tenchi Muyo! Ryo Ohki (2016)" is the fourth installment in the long-running "Tenchi Muyo!" OVA series, continuing the story of Tenchi Masaki and the eclectic group of alien women who have become part of his life. The narrative picks up after the events of the third OVA series, with Tenchi still residing at the Masaki family shrine alongside Ryoko, Ayeka, Sasami, Mihoshi, Washu, and the sentient spaceship Ryo-Ohki, who often takes the form of a cabbit (a cat-rabbit hybrid). The series explores the deepening relationships and evolving dynamics among the characters while introducing new challenges and revelations about their interconnected destinies.
The story delves into the cosmic hierarchy and the intricate political landscape of the Galaxy Police and the Jurai Empire, of which Ayeka and Sasami are princesses. A central focus is the emergence of Tenchi's latent powers as the heir to the Masaki family's divine lineage, which ties him to the ancient and powerful Jurai royal family. This development brings renewed attention from various factions, including the Galaxy Police, who seek to harness his abilities for their own purposes. Meanwhile, Ryoko, a former space pirate with a mysterious past, grapples with her feelings for Tenchi and her own connection to the Jurai royal family through her creation by Washu, a scientific genius and one of the three goddesses of the universe.
The plot introduces new characters, such as Noike, a Galaxy Police officer with ties to the Jurai royal family, and further explores the backstory of existing characters, particularly Washu and her role in the creation of the universe. The series also revisits the theme of balance between chaos and order, as Tenchi and his companions navigate conflicts that threaten not only their personal lives but also the stability of the galaxy. The narrative weaves together elements of romance, comedy, and science fiction, maintaining the lighthearted tone of previous installments while addressing deeper philosophical questions about power, responsibility, and the nature of existence.
Throughout the series, the relationships between the characters continue to evolve, with Tenchi at the center of their affections and conflicts. Ayeka and Ryoko's rivalry for Tenchi's attention remains a recurring source of humor and tension, while Sasami's bond with Tenchi grows stronger, hinting at her own divine significance. Mihoshi provides comic relief with her clumsy yet endearing personality, and Washu's scientific experiments often lead to unexpected and humorous outcomes. Ryo-Ohki, as both a spaceship and a cabbit, remains a loyal companion to the group, often serving as a mediator in their disputes.
The series concludes with a sense of resolution while leaving room for future developments, as Tenchi and his companions continue to navigate the complexities of their intertwined lives and the broader cosmic forces at play. The narrative maintains a balance between episodic storytelling and overarching plotlines, ensuring that both longtime fans and newcomers can engage with the series. "Tenchi Muyo! Ryo Ohki (2016)" serves as a continuation of the franchise's legacy, blending humor, romance, and science fiction in a way that remains true to its roots while exploring new dimensions of its universe.