Chapter 11:
Haruka looked down and the broken moon princess with sadness. Was this the result of the anger, pain and sorrow she fired at everyone? 'Yes.' Her mind answered for her, of course Haruka caused more pain secluding herself from everyone than actually dealing with it. She never once thought Usagi would do the same in her own heart ache, that's why she had the Inners wasn't it? So they could be strong for her, make her see the light in the darkest times. But never once did she think Usagi would push them all out, break down and shut everyone out as she herself had done for a year.
'Once again, Haruka thinks only about Haruka. What else is new?' Her mind chided and she fell deeper into her guilt. Not once did she ever show an example of strength, not once did she ever think about being an example to Hotaru or being a proper parent and comforting her at the loss of her best friend. No, ever since she became a Sailor Senshi, 50% of the time it was her way or no way. The other 50% was only focused on if Michiru was with her or safe at the end of everything. 'You're one piece of work, aren't you?' Her mind berated once more, causing Haruka to get aggravated at herself. She needed to change, she knew that. Michiru was no longer around to be her common sense, her mercy, conscious, now it was time for her to do it on her own and be the senshi, parent and friend they needed.
Setsuna looked up from the safety of the car to see Haruka carrying Usagi. A sigh of relief escaped her mouth as she watched the pair approach. The storm ceased and the sun seemed make them glow beautifully, like a new beginning. "If only it were Hollywood, this would be when the life changing event happened." Setsuna smiled and giggled. "But alas, reality is quite the cruel beast." Hotaru stirred and woke from her nap wondering why she was talking to herself.
"Setsuna-mama, what's going on?" Hotaru asked in a sleepy as she rubbed her eyes. Setsuna pointed towards the window and Hotaru smiled from ear to ear. "Haruka-papa found Usagi-chan!"
"I never had any doubt." Setsuna texted Minako to let her know the princess was alive and safe.
To Aino, MInako [Text]: Haruka found Usagi, she's safe.
To Aino, Minako [Text]: I'll take her home. Don't worry.
Setsuna knew full well she was not taking the moon princess home, but to the long lost home of newly reformed Outers. 'Michiru, somehow, some way, let Haruka know it's okay.' She knew this turn around would not come without it's shares of trails, drama and heartache but she hoped the outcome would benefit everyone involved.
After a long silent drive back home, besides the snoring coming from Ms. Tsukino, Setsuna and Hotaru offered to do shopping and clean up the home while Haruka tended to herself and Usagi. She agreed greatfully and gave Setsuna the Keys to her car. In not so many words, Setsuna could tell Haruka was happy to have them home again and Haruka never wanted to let them go ever again. Bringing the sleeping golden haired woman in her room, she laid her on the bed and decided it was high time to care about herself once again. She cut her hair the way it used to be and took a quick shower then changed into a t-shirt and slacks. Looking at Usagi's appearance, she could only guess sleeping beauty would want to clean up a bit, or at least change clothes. Haruka stood up and faced the closet were she dared not open in many months. The only clothes of Michiru's she saw daily was the dress laying on the floor she wore the day before… Haruka pushed the thoughts away, bit the bullet and opened to closet doors.
The smell of the ocean met her nose in an emotional embrace making Haruka tear up once more. Trying to work as quickly as possible, she finally found something that Usagi might like. A pink t-shirt and pajama pants to match, succeeding in her mission, Haruka threw the clothes on the bed then quickly closed the closet doors, breathing in a shaky breath as her inner turmoil threatened to come to light. Haruka slowly moved back to the bed and sat down, thinking on what to say to Usagi once she woke.