*Sam squeezes her eyes shut* I'M SO SORRY! I had this all written but I
lost it so I had to go back and rewrite it! And, because school had
started it took even longer than usual. I'd like to thank everyone who
read my friend's fics! (I'd go through and write all your names but my
mouse has died and I can't pull up that list up.) And I'd also like to
thank everyone who read and didn't review.
*Duo slaps a hand over Sam's mouth* Enough with the pathetic excuses, enough with the author's notes and on with the show!
*Sam nods fervently*
* * * * *
The Time Gates stood, tall, prestigious, and awe-inspiring as always. But they were encased in a giant Crystal, clear and somehow softly, beautifully, glowing with the colors of the rainbow, despite the gloomy mists and the insane collage of colors outside of it. In the center of the Crystal, over the keyhole and the place where the doors met was a tiny figure, dressed in a pink and white Sailor fuku with yellow trim. Sailor Moon fell to her knees.
"Chibiusa-chan!"
Her future daughter was frozen in the Crystal. Her eyes were peacefully closed, her head tilted slightly back as her hands and feet dangled. She seemed peacefully sleeping, rather than entombed in a crystalline grave. That was no comfort to the horrified Senshi as a part of her mind whispered that Chibiusa looked almost like a seal over the Gates and compared her inert form to the waxen seals that nobles used so long ago. Sailor Moon stumbled to her feet and ran at the Crystal, tears streaming down her cheeks, to collapse against it, beating at it impotently with her gloved fists as she screamed at the uncaring stone.
" . . . Give her back! . . . Give Chibiusa-chan back to me! . . ."
She did not notice her tears falling against the Crystal. Nor did she notice the soft, almost silent hissing noise the Crystal made as the tears dissolved it. What she did notice was the weight of another body collapsing on her. Reflexively she caught it, then looked.
"CHIBIUSA!!"
Lovingly Sailor Moon held the unmoving form to herself before gently lowering it into her lap. Cradling the child in her lap, Sailor Moon whispered loving endearments, broken only by kisses, as her groping fingers gently fondled the puffy bubble-gum pink hair, trailed the curve of her daughter's cheek, and traced the delicate curve of her child's lips. It was as Sailor Moon was kissing the palm of one hand through its glove that Sailor Chibimoon's long eyelashes began to flutter. She shifted her head against Sailor Moon's shoulder as she whispered softly, "Usagi-chan?"
Sailor Moon crushed the smaller girl to herself, brokenly sobbing her love. Sailor Chibimoon hugged her back just as fiercely and wept just as hard, incoherently telling her future mother that she loved her, had missed her, and that she had never meant to destroy Time. Finally, Sailor Moon's tears slowed then stopped and she was finally able to listen to what her daughter was still saying as she continued to cry against her.
"I-I'm s-s-sorry U-U-Usagi! . . .I-I didn't mean t-t-t-t-to! . . .I-It w- was an accident!"
Sailor Moon gently rocked the pink-haired child in her lap.
"What happened?"
Tearfully, and with many broken syllables, Sailor Chibimoon told the older Senshi about that fateful moment in the Time Stream when, in her haste to be home, she had dropped the Time Key on the Doorstep of Time. She finished her narrative by wailing, "I DIDN'T MEAN TO USAGI-CHAN! IT WAS AN ACCIDENT!!"
For her part, Sailor Moon sat ominously still, her emotions raging as the wave of loss that she had been fighting off for so long crashed over her, threatening to pull her into its depths. Chibimoon stared fearfully up at Sailor Moon's pale, still face and glazed blue eyes.
"Usagi-chan . . ." she breathed tentatively.
It wasn't much of a sound, or very loud, but it was enough for Sailor Moon. It was enough of a sound, a plea, to pull her from the wave of loss and stave off its return. It was enough to remind her that, for now, she was the one everyone – her future daughter, the people of Earth and the Colonies, and even the White Moon Empire – was looking to her for a bright future. She closed her eyes as her responsibilities threatened to crush her.
Chibimoon's red eyes were rapidly becoming alarmed. "Usagi-chan . . ."
'This moment and this crisis' Sailor Moon decided. 'Just deal with this moment and this crisis.'
Her eyes slid open and focused on her daughter's face, pinched and pale.
"Yes Chibiusa-chan?"
Her voice was not even a whisper. "Do you hate me?"
"No." Sailor Moon's voice took on greater strength and a firmer tone. "No Chibiusa-chan. I could never hate you." She smiled wryly as she hugged the younger girl to herself. "Only a daughter of mine could have the klutz attack that broke the Time Stream."
Sailor Chibimoon laughed weakly.
"Chibiusa-chan, where are the other Sailor Senshi?"
The younger Sailor Soldier shifted in her arms. "I don't know." She admitted, meeting her mother's eyes. "After the Time Stream settled down and Puu figured out what had happened to you, we had a meeting in the Time Stream. Everyone was so upset. Pluto said that I had changed everything. The future –" Chibimoon choked on her words. "– My future – doesn't exist anymore. I unmade it!" She began to cry again, this time silently so that her words were easily understood. Sailor Moon's arms tightened around her. "I destroyed my entire world when I dropped the key! Nothing was the same anymore, not you, not Mamo-chan, not anything. Everyone was so frightened a-and angry. The backlash from the Crystal Key touching the Doorstep was a vast hole in the very fabric of Time and Space and a giant amount of energy, determined to fill that hole, no matter what. That's why you were taken. You were what it needed to fill that hole, your passing from your own Time into whenever we are had enough energy in it to sew the hole up." Both girls were shaking by this point in the tale but Sailor Chibimoon plowed on. "Pl-Pluto says what was done cannot be undone. You can't leave this Time! The version of you that was supposed to live here cease to exist the moment you arrived. Everything is new and different!" Chibimoon ceased talking and buried her face in Sailor Moon's shoulder and wept the tears of the truly heartbroken.
Sailor Moon, for her part, was stunned and overwhelmed. Never leave the demands of this Time where she was ill suited and ill prepared to meet them? Never go back to her own Time where her Mama and Papa and Shingo waited for her? Never see Naru again? Disbelief, then intense anger followed shock. How could this little pink spore do this to her?
Sailor Moon roughly yanked the younger girl from herself, intent of scream at her, shaking her, anything to assuage her rage. But the look on Chibimoon's face made her stop. Her childish face was wet and twisted with grief. Red eyes, resigned and wearied, looked out of puffy pink lids as tears coupled with harsh, ragged gasps continued to leak from her. But it was the look in those eyes that made Sailor Moon pause. They were wretchedly lost and utterly alone and desolate. She may have lost her world but her daughter's world had been destroyed and her existence had been nullified. Chibimoon might not even exist outside of the Time Stream.
Sailor Moon sighed as the anger drained from her, leaving only loss and fear. She pulled Chibimoon against herself again and wept with the younger girl. Later, she would be strong and valiant as she tried her best. But in this Time Between Times, in this Place Between Places, she would weep and mourn for all that had been, for all that was, and for all that might have been.
* * * * *
It had been a miserable, torturous week for Catherine Bloom. After Hilde had left her, she had sat in her trailer and wept, holding her picture of herself, her brother, and his best friend. Gradually the tears had subsided and she had sat in silence. Finally, she had felt the need to move. Shakily standing, and still too fragile feeling to venture out into public, she had made her way to her dressing table and peered at herself in the mirror.
"Pathetic" she declared finally as she studied her pale cheeks and puffy eyes, the only color in her face being the red her misery had created. "I'm pathetic. Where's the strong, independent woman I used to be? Now I sit around, crying over foolish men!"
'Ah' whispered a little voice in the back of her mind, a voice that sounded rather like her. 'Hilde showed me a way to reclaim her.'
"What about Trowa? He needs someone to come home to."
'Even if she's sent herself mad with the waiting? Even if she's a shell, a shadow of her former self?'
Catherine pursed her lips. "I don't know how to fight. I'm not a soldier."
'But I could learn to be.'
"What about killing? I'm not sure I could."
'Not everyone in the military carries a gun. There are other roles that are equally important.'
"What about the circus? People are counting on me!"
'Excuses' the other side of her proclaimed airily. 'Fear. That's what the basis of that argument is! Fear of new things, fear of the unknown. I'm afraid to look after myself, to put myself first! But sometimes, the best way to look after – to protect – the ones you love is to look after yourself. Trowa and Quatre are doing what they think they need to do, as are all the Gundam pilots. I should do what I need to do.'
Catherine considered Hilde's offer over the next week. She stayed up late, ate meals mechanically, and nearly fell off of the high wire tossing the pros and cons of joining the Preventers back and forth in her mind. At the end of the week, her decision was made. Whatever she did or became in the Preventers, it would certainly be better than the turmoil and misery she lived in now. She would do as Hilde had done. There was no other choice for her. Carefully she explained her decision to leave to the Ringmaster, carefully omitting her plans to join the Preventers. He surprised her by laughing.
"Catherine, I've been wondering how long it would take you to decide to leave! The circus will always be your home – yours and Trowa's. Come back when you can."
Now she stared at the slip of paper Hilde had left her with her friend's name – Usagi Tsukino – and number. Hilde had said she would help . . . Swallowing her pride, Catherine dialed the number and waited for someone to pick up. After several rings, a sleepy face peered into the vid-phone, blearily rubbing one eye.
"Moshi moshi?"
Catherine blinked. "Excuse me? Is this the correct number? I'm Catherine Bloom and I was trying to reach one Usagi Tsukino."
The girl nodded her head, making her golden hair shimmer and shake, her face visibly brightening with recognition. "That's me! What can I do for you?"
"Hilde said I could – if I needed help – call you . . . And I do." Catherine took a deep breath, saying the words aloud for the first time. "I do need your help. I want to join the Preventers."
Usagi nodded. "Sure. I can help you do that. You can stay with me until everything gets settled."
Catherine hesitated a moment before making her next request. "I'd like to join up without my brother knowing, if at all possible." She thought of Trowa silent resolution to keep her safe at any cost and Quatre's sorrowful eyes as he told her how lucky she was to be untainted by the blood of others. "It would be . . .difficult . . . if Trowa were to know."
Usagi nodded. "Especially since he's a Gundam pilot, right?" As Catherine gaped at the other girl, she laughed softly. "Hilde told me all about you and said that you might call. I think I can work that too. When do you think you'll be here? Do you have a shuttle ticket yet?"
"When would it be most convenient for you?"
"When's the next shuttle?"
"Tomorrow."
"Good. I'll have a room ready for you."
Catherine blinked. So quickly?
Usagi smiled gently at her. "It's been my experience that when I put things off, they only get worse. Can you be packed and on the shuttle by tomorrow?"
Catherine nodded. "I'll buy a ticket as soon as I hang up with you."
Usagi nodded. "Good. I'll let you go then and I'll meet your flight tomorrow at the Sanq International Shuttle Port. Call me before you land to tell me when you get in."
"Don't you have school tomorrow?
Usagi waved her hand dismissively. "I needed a day off anyway."
Catherine nodded uncertainly. "O-Okay. I'll call you."
"Then I'll let you go. Bye Catherine!"
"Goodbye Usagi."
Catherine hung up, feeling lighter than she had since Trowa had left.
* * * * *
Trowa silently regarded his sister's e-mail. In it she said that she loved him and missed him and was moving to Earth. She simply couldn't stand waiting for him in the circus where they had spent so much time together; it hurt too much. But she would be fine – she was moving in with a friend of Hilde's – and she would be waiting for him when the war ended. Something about Catherine's e-mail made him suspicious. Nothing was wrong with it per se, but it made his skin crawl. And Trowa always listened to his instincts.
He stared at the letter for another thirty minutes, reading and rereading it. Catherine didn't say where she was going or what she would do when she got there nor did she leave him any kind of address to trace her with. He had nothing to go on. There was really nothing he could do. Frowning slightly, he saved it to his hard drive, then deleted it from his e-mail account. He would try to find Catherine's shuttle reservations.
* * * * *
"Why did you invite her to live with you?" Sailor Chibimoon asked, as she devoured the food Sailor Moon had brought her in the Time Stream. "And who cooked this?"
"I invited Catherine-san to live with me because I have no idea where to look for the others . . .not yet at any rate. As for the food, Raoul-san made that for me."
Chibimoon stopped eating for a moment. "Raoul-san?"
Sailor Moon nodded – she had told Chibimoon about her new Time.
"He's an assistant cook in Relena-chan's kitchen. Her staff always took care of me when I lived there and they still do. The kitchen sends me food and the cleaning staff somehow got keys to Rei-chan's temple so they clean for me. I think Paegan-san – Relena-chan's driver – is somehow in the mix. And everyone I met while living with Relena-chan is still very nice to me and speaks to me and tries to help me. I still work out and spar with Sally-san, Noin-san, and Zechs-san – Wufei-san still won't have anything to do with my training and he's still worried about his missing hair."
Chibimoon laughed despite their situation. "That was terrible of you!"
Sailor Moon shrugged, smiling herself. "It was necessary."
Chibimoon nodded. "Hai Usagi-mama."
Sailor Moon allowed there to be a few minutes of comfortable silence between the two before she spoke again.
"Chibiusa-chan, tell me again about the last few moments before you were sealed in the Crystal."
Chibiusa's eyes flashed with sorrow and guilt but she nodded. "Hai . . .Well, I couldn't leave the Time Stream. Diana, Luna-P and I tried to leave once. Luna-P ceased to exist as soon as we left the Time Stream. Diana was solid and felt fine but I began to fade" Chibimoon shivered. "It was terrible and Puu rushed me back here before I ceased to exist. The other Sailor senshi needed to be nine in number to seal themselves in a Crystal and wait for you to find them in whatever Time you re-emerged. I was going to be the ninth but I couldn't exist outside of the Stream of Time so Pluto had to be it. Pluto closed and locked the Gates of Time then everyone combined their powers and sealed me in a Crystal over the Gate. Diana went with her parents." Her voice was soft. "I watched everyone but especially Mamo-chan . . .Mamo-papa . . . until I fell asleep."
Sailor Moon nodded. "Thank you Chibiusa-chan."
Chibimoon nodded. "How are you going to find the others?"
Sailor Moon sighed and made a terrible face. "I'm going to have to research their lives, I'm afraid." She groaned. "This is going to be so much work! And I'm terrible with computers!"
Chibimoon giggled at Sailor Moon's comically forlorn and miserable expression. Then her good humor melted away and she sighed.
"Usagi-mama" she asked quietly "why did I fade and Diana did not?"
Sailor Moon pulled the younger girl into her lap and held her tightly.
"I don't know Chibiusa-chan. I honestly don't know."
* * * * *
Catherine stumbled off of the shuttle, squinting her eyes against the harsh fluorescent lighting of the shuttle port as she looked for Usagi. A light pink sign waved over the heads of the people in the shuttle port with the words "Welcome Catherine Bloom" written in golden glitter on it. Laughing, Catherine made her way to the sign's tiny holder and took stock of her for the first time.
The girl was small and fragile in appearance with light skin and a heart shaped face framed by golden hair that was caught up in twin buns on either side of her head with streamers of hair that cascaded down to her feet. Her eyes were a soft, bright blue that sparkled and smiled cheerfully at Catherine. For a moment, something vast and painful flittered through her eyes, some deep, personal sorrow before clearing leaving Usagi's eyes as bright and clear as if it had never been.
"Hi!" Usagi's lips curled into a bright smile and she held out a small hand. "I'm Usagi Tsukino. It's a pleasure to finally meet you face to face! I loved your circus act!"
Laughing at Usagi's sincere enthusiasm, Catherine took her hand and shook it, feeling the sharp difference between her own lightly callused hand and Usagi's soft, smooth skin. "Thank you and likewise! I'm Catherine Bloom."
Confidently taking Catherine's small carry on bag, Usagi smiled up at the taller woman. "Let's find the rest of your stuff and go eat somewhere."
Somewhat unsure Catherine nodded. "Okay. I could carry my own bag."
Usagi laughed. "Nah. You're my guest."
Catherine's bags were quickly located and loaded on a dolly to be wrestled into the trunk of a taxi. The two chattered pleasantly until the taxi jerked to a halt in front of a daunting set of stone stairs. Usagi somehow wheedled the taxi driver into dragging Catherine's bags up the stairs and into her prepared room, tipping him generously for his efforts. Usagi allowed Catherine to settle in before showing her around the temple grounds. Claiming fatigue, Catherine retired to her room, leaving Usagi alone. Usagi stared at a wall for several minutes as she considered the pros and cons of her idea. Finally, she quickly scribbled a note to Catherine before taking off for the bus stop and Relena's palace.
* * * * *
Usagi hopped from foot to foot in Lady Une's waiting room.
"Can't I see her yet?" she whined to the secretary.
"No" the secretary didn't even look up from her typing, "Lady Une is busy."
"But –"
"No."
Usagi sighed. "Could you at least tell her that I'm here?"
"No. Lady Une is very busy."
A middle-aged woman dressed in an expensive business suit, slightly on the plump side with severe eyes and rigid curls marched through the door. The secretary stopped typing immediately and looked up at the older woman.
"May I help you?"
"Could you tell Lady Une that Minister Sloane is here, dear?"
The secretary nodded. "Of course ma'am. Just one moment please."
As the secretary picked up her phone and dialed Lady Une's private office, Minister Sloane turned to Usagi and smiled warmly.
"It's a pleasure to see you Miss Usagi. May I ask why you're hanging around Lady Une's waiting room?"
Usagi smiled sunnily at the Minister. "And you Minister Sloane. I'm not hanging around Lady Une's waiting room; I'm trying to get in to see her. I want to ask her a quick question."
The secretary's eyes bored into Usagi as she spoke into the phone.
"Lady Une, Minister Sloane is here . . . Of course . . . Yes ma'am."
She hung up and smiled winningly at Minister Sloane.
"Lady Une will be right with you."
Usagi peered at the tiresome with thinly veiled irritation.
"Why won't you do that for me?"
The woman's eyes took in Usagi's jeans and light pink turtleneck with obvious distaste.
"You're business isn't official."
"You don't know that! And you don't know what Minister Sloane's business is either! Minister Sloane might be going in to play bridge with Lady Une and I might be trying to tell her the secret identity of Sailor Moon!"
The secretary's sniff indicated that she thought such a turn of events was highly unlikely. Just then, Lady Une's door swung open and Minister Sloane placed a hand lightly on Usagi's shoulder as she smiled over Usagi's head at the great lady.
"Hello Lady Une. Miss Usagi and I shall only take a moment of your time."
The secretary paled as Usagi started then smiled warmly up at the older woman. Lady Une smiled slightly but warmly at her guests.
"Of course. Take as long as you like though, Maria, Usagi." She stepped to the side and gestured that they should come in. "If you would?"
Both women nodded and entered Lady Une's office. Usagi smiled and mouthed the word 'Thanks' to Minister Sloane. The woman in question grinned and winked as she sunk into one of Lady Une comfortable leather seats. Usagi joined her as Lady Une carefully closed the door and took her own seat.
"Your arrival is somewhat of a surprise to me Usagi."
Usagi flushed slightly. "Yes . . .I am sorry. But I needed to see you as soon as possible."
Lady Une arched an eyebrow. "And what was so urgent?"
Usagi took a deep breath. "Catherine Bloom. She wishes to join the Preventers."
Lady Une leaned back in her chair. "Well then. You're converting people right and left, aren't you Usagi?"
Usagi flushed slightly. "Hilde converted her."
Lady Une smiled slightly. "Ahhh . . . Your first disciple went out and found you a second."
Usagi laughed, as her cheeks became a little pinker. "If you must think of it that way."
Minister Sloane looked faintly surprised. "Forgive me for asking, but why didn't this young lady join Lady Une's organization through more normal channels?"
Lady Une smiled. "A good question that is easily answered. Catherine Bloom is the adopted sister of Trowa Barton, Gundam Pilot 03."
The minister made a small noise of understanding. "Ahhhh, I see. I take it Mr. Barton frowns on his sister's wishes?"
"He must because Cathy doesn't want him to know. I thought she might join the way Hilde did."
The minister laughed. "I take it we have a legion of women who have secretly joined the Preventers against their family's wishes?"
Lady Une laughed. "No Maria. Only one – the significant other of Duo Maxwell, Gundam pilot 02." She nodded her head. "I think Catherine could join. I take it you would like to arrange a meeting with Zechs and Noin so that the girl can be enlisted, away from the prying eyes of Wufei Chang?"
Usagi nodded. "Please."
"When would you and Miss Bloom like the meeting to take place Usagi?"
"As soon as possible" Usagi replied eagerly.
Lady Une laughed. "As you wish. I happen to know that there is a particularly boring political dinner this evening that they would rather not attend. Is tonight too early?"
"No! The sooner the better!"
Maria Sloane laughed. "That is terribly unfair of you to let them off the hook. If I must suffer, I wish everyone who has the same obligations to suffer with me."
"I would too" Usagi agreed cheerfully. "But this is really important!"
"Such enthusiasm." Minister Sloane noted, her eyes twinkling. "Why don't you join up too Miss Usagi?"
Usagi shook her head. "We all fight in our own ways and I am remarkably unsuited to be a Preventer. I will, however, send those who have the will and the strength to the Preventers. No one's will should be over looked and no one's talents should be waste. Especially not in this Time."
Minister Sloane nodded. "As you will, Miss Usagi."
Usagi stood. "I think I should leave you to your secret meeting now." Usagi turned to go, then paused and turned around again. "Minister Sloane, I would appreciate it if you would keep everything you've heard just now to yourself. It wouldn't do for Cathy or Hilde to get in trouble."
Minister Sloane nodded gravely. "You have my solemn vow Miss Usagi."
Usagi smiled brightly. "Thank you! Minister Sloane, Lady Une, I'll leave you to go about your business now. And thanks again for everything Minister Sloane."
Minister Sloane laughed and waved a hand at Usagi. "Don't worry about it, dear."
Lady Une laughed. "Don't be a stranger Usagi! Visit me for fun sometime!"
Usagi laughed and nodded. "I will Lady Une. Believe me, I will!"
Then Usagi waved again and vanished through the door, on her way to the library.
"What an interesting child" Minister Sloane remarked. "Between you and me, she has potential to do things."
Lady Une smiled and nodded. "Also between you and me, I would have to agree, Maria. Usagi has amnesia. I asked some of my people to see what they could dig up on her but they have been unable to find anything about her before she mysteriously appeared in the gardens of this palace, unconscious. She's only been here for a matter of months but already, Usagi Tsukino – as she has named herself – is a force to be reckoned with."
Maria Sloane nodded. "I have only met her twice, including today, but I have heard a great deal about her from my colleagues. Most are besotted with her. Indeed, I think I will soon be one of them. The few who don't like her seem to uniformly have problems with the servants in this palace."
Lady Une laughed. "I noticed that too. But Usagi hasn't. She is completely innocent to that phenomenon and the fact that the better part of the people who live in this palace would walk through fire for her. Even Relena and my daughter have fallen to her spell." Lady Une's eyes became thoughtful. "Usagi Tsukino seems to have her own goals though. What they are, I cannot say but they do not seem to involve challenging any one of us for our positions."
"But you can guess what she does want?" Minister Sloane hazarded to guess.
"Only a formless suspicion. A very wild formless suspicion that bears consideration."
Maria Sloane laughed. "And that's all you will say for now, isn't it?"
Lady Une nodded.
"To business then!"
* * * * *
Usagi glared at the computer. Then she stood up on her chair and peered around the library. No one in sight. Usagi opened her mouth and let loose with an ear-piercing shriek. Feeling better, she hopped off of her chair and plopped down into her chair to regard her mutinous computer.
"That was quite a display" a voice murmured into her ear.
Usagi jumped again, not quite stifling another shriek. Jerking her head to the side, she came face to face with the smirking countenance of Lucrezia Noin. Putting her hand over her heart, Usagi glared at the other woman.
"You scared me!"
"That makes two of us" Noin replied unapologetically. She nodded at the computer. "This thing drove you to screaming?"
Usagi nodded, blushing scarlet, and sent a fierce glare at the object in question.
"Yes," she admitted. "I'm trying to do some research on it concerning a woman named Rei Hino. Her family owned the Temple I live in and I'm trying to figure out why it passed from their family's hands."
Noin grinned. "Curious, aren't you?"
Usagi nodded. "How else will I learn anything?"
"On the reliable information of your whereabouts from Paegan, I was just coming to accept your dinner invitation on behalf of Zechs and myself" Noin pulled up a chair. "But you look like you need help. When is the last record of your Rei Hino?"
Usagi named the year she disappeared and Noin frowned. "So long ago? I don't know how much we'll find. The wars in the last few centuries destroy a lot of records and knowledge about the centuries before them but I'll show you a few likely places to look for such things."
"Thank you – for both things Miss Noin."
Noin waved Usagi's thanks away, a little embarrassed about the depths of gratitude over so trivial a matter. "I haven't found anything for you yet . . .Now, pay attention . . ."
* * * * *
Zechs and Noin showed up dressed in jean, T-shirts, and loose leather jackets. Usagi stared, her mouth hanging open.
"Um . . .Usagi?" Noin asked finally. "Are you going to let us in or are you going to stare at us on the doorstep all evening?"
"You're catching flies," Zechs added with a grin.
Usagi's mouth snapped shut and she blushed scarlet as she held the door wider and stepped out of the way to let her guests in.
"I'm sorry!" she hastily apologized "I've never seen either of you wear anything so comforta – oops . . .I'm sorry! Please don't be offended!"
Both Zechs and Noin chortled, vastly amused by Usagi's slip.
"It's okay, Usagi" Noin reassured her. "The uniforms you see us in at the palace are our dress uniforms. They're not particularly comfortable or easy to maintain."
"Usually we wear our field uniforms when working" Zechs added. "Do you have any objections to our dressing down for this meeting?"
"N-No! I was just surprised, that's all!" Usagi added sheepishly, "I didn't think either of you owned any real clothes."
Both Preventers laughed.
"I'd hate to see what would happen if we'd come really casually dressed" Noin teased.
Feeling more at ease, Usagi showed them into the sparsely furnished living room. She had furnished the house exactly as Rei and her grandfather had so many centuries ago so that it almost looked as if she was in her proper time. The only differences were her appliances, the vid-phone, and the medium sized color television.
"Can I get either of you anything to drink?"
"A coke, please."
"Me too" Zechs added.
Usagi nodded and went to get the drinks. When she returned, she found Catherine, dressed in short jean shorts and a tanktop, chatting amiably with the couple. Usagi scowled mockingly.
"Does everyone know everyone else around here except me?"
Zechs and Noin murmured their thanks.
"I've met Catherine before" Noin admitted. "We're just catching up."
"I didn't know her," Zechs added soothingly.
"That makes me feel slightly better," Usagi grinned at the three. "Can I get you anything Catherine?"
Catherine shook her head. "No thanks."
Usagi plopped onto the floor. "So, will you give her the same deal as Hilde?"
"No formalities I see" Zechs noted wryly. "You just get straight to the point."
"Of course!" Usagi agreed cheerfully. "We all know each other here!"
"Lady Une briefed us on the nature of this dinner earlier" Zechs said, "not only will we take her but we'll fill out all her paperwork tonight."
"YAY!" Usagi waved her arms around in delight. "We did it Cathy! You're in!"
Catherine laughed. "Are you so excited about getting rid of me?"
"No Cathy!" Usagi hurriedly tried to assure her as she shook her head, sending her hair flying around her. "I'm just happy for you, that's all!"
Catherine, Zechs, and Noin laughed. Usagi looked confused.
"I was teasing" Catherine explained gently.
"Oh" Usagi thought a moment, then brightened. " . . .Let's eat!"
Everyone laughed.
* * * * *
The evening passed pleasantly and Usagi was humming to herself as she cleared up. Catherine was strangely silent as she helped the younger girl clear away the debris from the casual get together. After Catherine's paperwork had been filled out, Zechs and Noin had stayed and talked with the pair. They had played board games and finally watched movies together. It had been fun and the couple had left late. Usagi and Catherine were cleaning up before going to bed.
"Are you okay?" Usagi asked suddenly.
Catherine blinked at her. "Okay? I'm fine. Why wouldn't I be?"
"You're just awfully quiet. And, well, you don't look happy, Cathy."
Catherine considered her host. "And how do I look to you?"
"Tired and worried. And sad."
Catherine smiled slightly. "I am. I'm all of that."
"Why? I understand the tiredness – it's late – but the other stuff?"
"I'm worried about what Trowa will think." Catherine got a certain gleam in her eyes, a look Usagi was quite familiar with. "And I'm sad I can't tell him what I'm doing."
"And you're worried about what you're boyfriend will think and how he'll feel. And you're sad you haven't told him either."
"H-How did you know I was thinking that!" Catherine demanded before she automatically added, "And Quatre isn't my boyfriend!"
"You're in love with Quatre Raberba Winner?" Usagi demanded incredulously. "Also known as Gundam pilot 04?"
Catherine, knowing it was too late to correct her slip, nodded as she added, "He's Trowa's best friend."
Usagi sat down and laughed.
Catherine stomped her foot. "It isn't funny!"
Usagi nodded her head. "Hai! Hai! It reminded me –" Usagi cut herself off, realizing what she had almost said. 'Of Mako-chan and Minako-chan' she finished in her head.
"Of what?" Catherine asked suspiciously. "I thought you have amnesia."
"I do" Usagi admitted slowly. "I didn't think of it until you mentioned liking Quatre . . . who is your brother's best friend . . ."
"Maybe you're getting your memory back!" Catherine declared brightly, happy to change the subject. "What did you remember?"
Usagi, reluctant to let Catherine distract her, especially since it was so easy, replied slowly "Well . . . It was a flash of memory . . . I saw two girls, one blond like me and the other brunette and both two of my best friends in the universe, squealing over a trio of boys. And I knew they had a crush on these three guys, who were all friends of ours, if not as close. And what you said . . .was so like something they would say . . . They were always falling in and out of love."
"Do you remember their names?"
Usagi shook her head as her heart rebelliously cried out that names were unimportant for their souls were linked, forever. Names and faces could change with rebirth but the bonds between them would never be broken. Not by Time and not by Death. She would find them, wherever they were in her strange, new world.
"But I'll find them" she added, the intensity of her emotions spilling into her eyes and voice. "Even if I have to tear the Earth and Colonies apart, I will find them."
And Catherine, watching the blond girl, unconsciously shivered. Usagi turned her fierce gaze to focus solely on Catherine.
"I have to find my past and you have to fight Catherine. For yourself and for your bright future."
Catherine nodded her insecurity and fears melting before the fiery gaze of the younger girl.
Catherine's next words had all the solemnity of an oath. "And I will."
*Duo slaps a hand over Sam's mouth* Enough with the pathetic excuses, enough with the author's notes and on with the show!
*Sam nods fervently*
* * * * *
The Time Gates stood, tall, prestigious, and awe-inspiring as always. But they were encased in a giant Crystal, clear and somehow softly, beautifully, glowing with the colors of the rainbow, despite the gloomy mists and the insane collage of colors outside of it. In the center of the Crystal, over the keyhole and the place where the doors met was a tiny figure, dressed in a pink and white Sailor fuku with yellow trim. Sailor Moon fell to her knees.
"Chibiusa-chan!"
Her future daughter was frozen in the Crystal. Her eyes were peacefully closed, her head tilted slightly back as her hands and feet dangled. She seemed peacefully sleeping, rather than entombed in a crystalline grave. That was no comfort to the horrified Senshi as a part of her mind whispered that Chibiusa looked almost like a seal over the Gates and compared her inert form to the waxen seals that nobles used so long ago. Sailor Moon stumbled to her feet and ran at the Crystal, tears streaming down her cheeks, to collapse against it, beating at it impotently with her gloved fists as she screamed at the uncaring stone.
" . . . Give her back! . . . Give Chibiusa-chan back to me! . . ."
She did not notice her tears falling against the Crystal. Nor did she notice the soft, almost silent hissing noise the Crystal made as the tears dissolved it. What she did notice was the weight of another body collapsing on her. Reflexively she caught it, then looked.
"CHIBIUSA!!"
Lovingly Sailor Moon held the unmoving form to herself before gently lowering it into her lap. Cradling the child in her lap, Sailor Moon whispered loving endearments, broken only by kisses, as her groping fingers gently fondled the puffy bubble-gum pink hair, trailed the curve of her daughter's cheek, and traced the delicate curve of her child's lips. It was as Sailor Moon was kissing the palm of one hand through its glove that Sailor Chibimoon's long eyelashes began to flutter. She shifted her head against Sailor Moon's shoulder as she whispered softly, "Usagi-chan?"
Sailor Moon crushed the smaller girl to herself, brokenly sobbing her love. Sailor Chibimoon hugged her back just as fiercely and wept just as hard, incoherently telling her future mother that she loved her, had missed her, and that she had never meant to destroy Time. Finally, Sailor Moon's tears slowed then stopped and she was finally able to listen to what her daughter was still saying as she continued to cry against her.
"I-I'm s-s-sorry U-U-Usagi! . . .I-I didn't mean t-t-t-t-to! . . .I-It w- was an accident!"
Sailor Moon gently rocked the pink-haired child in her lap.
"What happened?"
Tearfully, and with many broken syllables, Sailor Chibimoon told the older Senshi about that fateful moment in the Time Stream when, in her haste to be home, she had dropped the Time Key on the Doorstep of Time. She finished her narrative by wailing, "I DIDN'T MEAN TO USAGI-CHAN! IT WAS AN ACCIDENT!!"
For her part, Sailor Moon sat ominously still, her emotions raging as the wave of loss that she had been fighting off for so long crashed over her, threatening to pull her into its depths. Chibimoon stared fearfully up at Sailor Moon's pale, still face and glazed blue eyes.
"Usagi-chan . . ." she breathed tentatively.
It wasn't much of a sound, or very loud, but it was enough for Sailor Moon. It was enough of a sound, a plea, to pull her from the wave of loss and stave off its return. It was enough to remind her that, for now, she was the one everyone – her future daughter, the people of Earth and the Colonies, and even the White Moon Empire – was looking to her for a bright future. She closed her eyes as her responsibilities threatened to crush her.
Chibimoon's red eyes were rapidly becoming alarmed. "Usagi-chan . . ."
'This moment and this crisis' Sailor Moon decided. 'Just deal with this moment and this crisis.'
Her eyes slid open and focused on her daughter's face, pinched and pale.
"Yes Chibiusa-chan?"
Her voice was not even a whisper. "Do you hate me?"
"No." Sailor Moon's voice took on greater strength and a firmer tone. "No Chibiusa-chan. I could never hate you." She smiled wryly as she hugged the younger girl to herself. "Only a daughter of mine could have the klutz attack that broke the Time Stream."
Sailor Chibimoon laughed weakly.
"Chibiusa-chan, where are the other Sailor Senshi?"
The younger Sailor Soldier shifted in her arms. "I don't know." She admitted, meeting her mother's eyes. "After the Time Stream settled down and Puu figured out what had happened to you, we had a meeting in the Time Stream. Everyone was so upset. Pluto said that I had changed everything. The future –" Chibimoon choked on her words. "– My future – doesn't exist anymore. I unmade it!" She began to cry again, this time silently so that her words were easily understood. Sailor Moon's arms tightened around her. "I destroyed my entire world when I dropped the key! Nothing was the same anymore, not you, not Mamo-chan, not anything. Everyone was so frightened a-and angry. The backlash from the Crystal Key touching the Doorstep was a vast hole in the very fabric of Time and Space and a giant amount of energy, determined to fill that hole, no matter what. That's why you were taken. You were what it needed to fill that hole, your passing from your own Time into whenever we are had enough energy in it to sew the hole up." Both girls were shaking by this point in the tale but Sailor Chibimoon plowed on. "Pl-Pluto says what was done cannot be undone. You can't leave this Time! The version of you that was supposed to live here cease to exist the moment you arrived. Everything is new and different!" Chibimoon ceased talking and buried her face in Sailor Moon's shoulder and wept the tears of the truly heartbroken.
Sailor Moon, for her part, was stunned and overwhelmed. Never leave the demands of this Time where she was ill suited and ill prepared to meet them? Never go back to her own Time where her Mama and Papa and Shingo waited for her? Never see Naru again? Disbelief, then intense anger followed shock. How could this little pink spore do this to her?
Sailor Moon roughly yanked the younger girl from herself, intent of scream at her, shaking her, anything to assuage her rage. But the look on Chibimoon's face made her stop. Her childish face was wet and twisted with grief. Red eyes, resigned and wearied, looked out of puffy pink lids as tears coupled with harsh, ragged gasps continued to leak from her. But it was the look in those eyes that made Sailor Moon pause. They were wretchedly lost and utterly alone and desolate. She may have lost her world but her daughter's world had been destroyed and her existence had been nullified. Chibimoon might not even exist outside of the Time Stream.
Sailor Moon sighed as the anger drained from her, leaving only loss and fear. She pulled Chibimoon against herself again and wept with the younger girl. Later, she would be strong and valiant as she tried her best. But in this Time Between Times, in this Place Between Places, she would weep and mourn for all that had been, for all that was, and for all that might have been.
* * * * *
It had been a miserable, torturous week for Catherine Bloom. After Hilde had left her, she had sat in her trailer and wept, holding her picture of herself, her brother, and his best friend. Gradually the tears had subsided and she had sat in silence. Finally, she had felt the need to move. Shakily standing, and still too fragile feeling to venture out into public, she had made her way to her dressing table and peered at herself in the mirror.
"Pathetic" she declared finally as she studied her pale cheeks and puffy eyes, the only color in her face being the red her misery had created. "I'm pathetic. Where's the strong, independent woman I used to be? Now I sit around, crying over foolish men!"
'Ah' whispered a little voice in the back of her mind, a voice that sounded rather like her. 'Hilde showed me a way to reclaim her.'
"What about Trowa? He needs someone to come home to."
'Even if she's sent herself mad with the waiting? Even if she's a shell, a shadow of her former self?'
Catherine pursed her lips. "I don't know how to fight. I'm not a soldier."
'But I could learn to be.'
"What about killing? I'm not sure I could."
'Not everyone in the military carries a gun. There are other roles that are equally important.'
"What about the circus? People are counting on me!"
'Excuses' the other side of her proclaimed airily. 'Fear. That's what the basis of that argument is! Fear of new things, fear of the unknown. I'm afraid to look after myself, to put myself first! But sometimes, the best way to look after – to protect – the ones you love is to look after yourself. Trowa and Quatre are doing what they think they need to do, as are all the Gundam pilots. I should do what I need to do.'
Catherine considered Hilde's offer over the next week. She stayed up late, ate meals mechanically, and nearly fell off of the high wire tossing the pros and cons of joining the Preventers back and forth in her mind. At the end of the week, her decision was made. Whatever she did or became in the Preventers, it would certainly be better than the turmoil and misery she lived in now. She would do as Hilde had done. There was no other choice for her. Carefully she explained her decision to leave to the Ringmaster, carefully omitting her plans to join the Preventers. He surprised her by laughing.
"Catherine, I've been wondering how long it would take you to decide to leave! The circus will always be your home – yours and Trowa's. Come back when you can."
Now she stared at the slip of paper Hilde had left her with her friend's name – Usagi Tsukino – and number. Hilde had said she would help . . . Swallowing her pride, Catherine dialed the number and waited for someone to pick up. After several rings, a sleepy face peered into the vid-phone, blearily rubbing one eye.
"Moshi moshi?"
Catherine blinked. "Excuse me? Is this the correct number? I'm Catherine Bloom and I was trying to reach one Usagi Tsukino."
The girl nodded her head, making her golden hair shimmer and shake, her face visibly brightening with recognition. "That's me! What can I do for you?"
"Hilde said I could – if I needed help – call you . . . And I do." Catherine took a deep breath, saying the words aloud for the first time. "I do need your help. I want to join the Preventers."
Usagi nodded. "Sure. I can help you do that. You can stay with me until everything gets settled."
Catherine hesitated a moment before making her next request. "I'd like to join up without my brother knowing, if at all possible." She thought of Trowa silent resolution to keep her safe at any cost and Quatre's sorrowful eyes as he told her how lucky she was to be untainted by the blood of others. "It would be . . .difficult . . . if Trowa were to know."
Usagi nodded. "Especially since he's a Gundam pilot, right?" As Catherine gaped at the other girl, she laughed softly. "Hilde told me all about you and said that you might call. I think I can work that too. When do you think you'll be here? Do you have a shuttle ticket yet?"
"When would it be most convenient for you?"
"When's the next shuttle?"
"Tomorrow."
"Good. I'll have a room ready for you."
Catherine blinked. So quickly?
Usagi smiled gently at her. "It's been my experience that when I put things off, they only get worse. Can you be packed and on the shuttle by tomorrow?"
Catherine nodded. "I'll buy a ticket as soon as I hang up with you."
Usagi nodded. "Good. I'll let you go then and I'll meet your flight tomorrow at the Sanq International Shuttle Port. Call me before you land to tell me when you get in."
"Don't you have school tomorrow?
Usagi waved her hand dismissively. "I needed a day off anyway."
Catherine nodded uncertainly. "O-Okay. I'll call you."
"Then I'll let you go. Bye Catherine!"
"Goodbye Usagi."
Catherine hung up, feeling lighter than she had since Trowa had left.
* * * * *
Trowa silently regarded his sister's e-mail. In it she said that she loved him and missed him and was moving to Earth. She simply couldn't stand waiting for him in the circus where they had spent so much time together; it hurt too much. But she would be fine – she was moving in with a friend of Hilde's – and she would be waiting for him when the war ended. Something about Catherine's e-mail made him suspicious. Nothing was wrong with it per se, but it made his skin crawl. And Trowa always listened to his instincts.
He stared at the letter for another thirty minutes, reading and rereading it. Catherine didn't say where she was going or what she would do when she got there nor did she leave him any kind of address to trace her with. He had nothing to go on. There was really nothing he could do. Frowning slightly, he saved it to his hard drive, then deleted it from his e-mail account. He would try to find Catherine's shuttle reservations.
* * * * *
"Why did you invite her to live with you?" Sailor Chibimoon asked, as she devoured the food Sailor Moon had brought her in the Time Stream. "And who cooked this?"
"I invited Catherine-san to live with me because I have no idea where to look for the others . . .not yet at any rate. As for the food, Raoul-san made that for me."
Chibimoon stopped eating for a moment. "Raoul-san?"
Sailor Moon nodded – she had told Chibimoon about her new Time.
"He's an assistant cook in Relena-chan's kitchen. Her staff always took care of me when I lived there and they still do. The kitchen sends me food and the cleaning staff somehow got keys to Rei-chan's temple so they clean for me. I think Paegan-san – Relena-chan's driver – is somehow in the mix. And everyone I met while living with Relena-chan is still very nice to me and speaks to me and tries to help me. I still work out and spar with Sally-san, Noin-san, and Zechs-san – Wufei-san still won't have anything to do with my training and he's still worried about his missing hair."
Chibimoon laughed despite their situation. "That was terrible of you!"
Sailor Moon shrugged, smiling herself. "It was necessary."
Chibimoon nodded. "Hai Usagi-mama."
Sailor Moon allowed there to be a few minutes of comfortable silence between the two before she spoke again.
"Chibiusa-chan, tell me again about the last few moments before you were sealed in the Crystal."
Chibiusa's eyes flashed with sorrow and guilt but she nodded. "Hai . . .Well, I couldn't leave the Time Stream. Diana, Luna-P and I tried to leave once. Luna-P ceased to exist as soon as we left the Time Stream. Diana was solid and felt fine but I began to fade" Chibimoon shivered. "It was terrible and Puu rushed me back here before I ceased to exist. The other Sailor senshi needed to be nine in number to seal themselves in a Crystal and wait for you to find them in whatever Time you re-emerged. I was going to be the ninth but I couldn't exist outside of the Stream of Time so Pluto had to be it. Pluto closed and locked the Gates of Time then everyone combined their powers and sealed me in a Crystal over the Gate. Diana went with her parents." Her voice was soft. "I watched everyone but especially Mamo-chan . . .Mamo-papa . . . until I fell asleep."
Sailor Moon nodded. "Thank you Chibiusa-chan."
Chibimoon nodded. "How are you going to find the others?"
Sailor Moon sighed and made a terrible face. "I'm going to have to research their lives, I'm afraid." She groaned. "This is going to be so much work! And I'm terrible with computers!"
Chibimoon giggled at Sailor Moon's comically forlorn and miserable expression. Then her good humor melted away and she sighed.
"Usagi-mama" she asked quietly "why did I fade and Diana did not?"
Sailor Moon pulled the younger girl into her lap and held her tightly.
"I don't know Chibiusa-chan. I honestly don't know."
* * * * *
Catherine stumbled off of the shuttle, squinting her eyes against the harsh fluorescent lighting of the shuttle port as she looked for Usagi. A light pink sign waved over the heads of the people in the shuttle port with the words "Welcome Catherine Bloom" written in golden glitter on it. Laughing, Catherine made her way to the sign's tiny holder and took stock of her for the first time.
The girl was small and fragile in appearance with light skin and a heart shaped face framed by golden hair that was caught up in twin buns on either side of her head with streamers of hair that cascaded down to her feet. Her eyes were a soft, bright blue that sparkled and smiled cheerfully at Catherine. For a moment, something vast and painful flittered through her eyes, some deep, personal sorrow before clearing leaving Usagi's eyes as bright and clear as if it had never been.
"Hi!" Usagi's lips curled into a bright smile and she held out a small hand. "I'm Usagi Tsukino. It's a pleasure to finally meet you face to face! I loved your circus act!"
Laughing at Usagi's sincere enthusiasm, Catherine took her hand and shook it, feeling the sharp difference between her own lightly callused hand and Usagi's soft, smooth skin. "Thank you and likewise! I'm Catherine Bloom."
Confidently taking Catherine's small carry on bag, Usagi smiled up at the taller woman. "Let's find the rest of your stuff and go eat somewhere."
Somewhat unsure Catherine nodded. "Okay. I could carry my own bag."
Usagi laughed. "Nah. You're my guest."
Catherine's bags were quickly located and loaded on a dolly to be wrestled into the trunk of a taxi. The two chattered pleasantly until the taxi jerked to a halt in front of a daunting set of stone stairs. Usagi somehow wheedled the taxi driver into dragging Catherine's bags up the stairs and into her prepared room, tipping him generously for his efforts. Usagi allowed Catherine to settle in before showing her around the temple grounds. Claiming fatigue, Catherine retired to her room, leaving Usagi alone. Usagi stared at a wall for several minutes as she considered the pros and cons of her idea. Finally, she quickly scribbled a note to Catherine before taking off for the bus stop and Relena's palace.
* * * * *
Usagi hopped from foot to foot in Lady Une's waiting room.
"Can't I see her yet?" she whined to the secretary.
"No" the secretary didn't even look up from her typing, "Lady Une is busy."
"But –"
"No."
Usagi sighed. "Could you at least tell her that I'm here?"
"No. Lady Une is very busy."
A middle-aged woman dressed in an expensive business suit, slightly on the plump side with severe eyes and rigid curls marched through the door. The secretary stopped typing immediately and looked up at the older woman.
"May I help you?"
"Could you tell Lady Une that Minister Sloane is here, dear?"
The secretary nodded. "Of course ma'am. Just one moment please."
As the secretary picked up her phone and dialed Lady Une's private office, Minister Sloane turned to Usagi and smiled warmly.
"It's a pleasure to see you Miss Usagi. May I ask why you're hanging around Lady Une's waiting room?"
Usagi smiled sunnily at the Minister. "And you Minister Sloane. I'm not hanging around Lady Une's waiting room; I'm trying to get in to see her. I want to ask her a quick question."
The secretary's eyes bored into Usagi as she spoke into the phone.
"Lady Une, Minister Sloane is here . . . Of course . . . Yes ma'am."
She hung up and smiled winningly at Minister Sloane.
"Lady Une will be right with you."
Usagi peered at the tiresome with thinly veiled irritation.
"Why won't you do that for me?"
The woman's eyes took in Usagi's jeans and light pink turtleneck with obvious distaste.
"You're business isn't official."
"You don't know that! And you don't know what Minister Sloane's business is either! Minister Sloane might be going in to play bridge with Lady Une and I might be trying to tell her the secret identity of Sailor Moon!"
The secretary's sniff indicated that she thought such a turn of events was highly unlikely. Just then, Lady Une's door swung open and Minister Sloane placed a hand lightly on Usagi's shoulder as she smiled over Usagi's head at the great lady.
"Hello Lady Une. Miss Usagi and I shall only take a moment of your time."
The secretary paled as Usagi started then smiled warmly up at the older woman. Lady Une smiled slightly but warmly at her guests.
"Of course. Take as long as you like though, Maria, Usagi." She stepped to the side and gestured that they should come in. "If you would?"
Both women nodded and entered Lady Une's office. Usagi smiled and mouthed the word 'Thanks' to Minister Sloane. The woman in question grinned and winked as she sunk into one of Lady Une comfortable leather seats. Usagi joined her as Lady Une carefully closed the door and took her own seat.
"Your arrival is somewhat of a surprise to me Usagi."
Usagi flushed slightly. "Yes . . .I am sorry. But I needed to see you as soon as possible."
Lady Une arched an eyebrow. "And what was so urgent?"
Usagi took a deep breath. "Catherine Bloom. She wishes to join the Preventers."
Lady Une leaned back in her chair. "Well then. You're converting people right and left, aren't you Usagi?"
Usagi flushed slightly. "Hilde converted her."
Lady Une smiled slightly. "Ahhh . . . Your first disciple went out and found you a second."
Usagi laughed, as her cheeks became a little pinker. "If you must think of it that way."
Minister Sloane looked faintly surprised. "Forgive me for asking, but why didn't this young lady join Lady Une's organization through more normal channels?"
Lady Une smiled. "A good question that is easily answered. Catherine Bloom is the adopted sister of Trowa Barton, Gundam Pilot 03."
The minister made a small noise of understanding. "Ahhhh, I see. I take it Mr. Barton frowns on his sister's wishes?"
"He must because Cathy doesn't want him to know. I thought she might join the way Hilde did."
The minister laughed. "I take it we have a legion of women who have secretly joined the Preventers against their family's wishes?"
Lady Une laughed. "No Maria. Only one – the significant other of Duo Maxwell, Gundam pilot 02." She nodded her head. "I think Catherine could join. I take it you would like to arrange a meeting with Zechs and Noin so that the girl can be enlisted, away from the prying eyes of Wufei Chang?"
Usagi nodded. "Please."
"When would you and Miss Bloom like the meeting to take place Usagi?"
"As soon as possible" Usagi replied eagerly.
Lady Une laughed. "As you wish. I happen to know that there is a particularly boring political dinner this evening that they would rather not attend. Is tonight too early?"
"No! The sooner the better!"
Maria Sloane laughed. "That is terribly unfair of you to let them off the hook. If I must suffer, I wish everyone who has the same obligations to suffer with me."
"I would too" Usagi agreed cheerfully. "But this is really important!"
"Such enthusiasm." Minister Sloane noted, her eyes twinkling. "Why don't you join up too Miss Usagi?"
Usagi shook her head. "We all fight in our own ways and I am remarkably unsuited to be a Preventer. I will, however, send those who have the will and the strength to the Preventers. No one's will should be over looked and no one's talents should be waste. Especially not in this Time."
Minister Sloane nodded. "As you will, Miss Usagi."
Usagi stood. "I think I should leave you to your secret meeting now." Usagi turned to go, then paused and turned around again. "Minister Sloane, I would appreciate it if you would keep everything you've heard just now to yourself. It wouldn't do for Cathy or Hilde to get in trouble."
Minister Sloane nodded gravely. "You have my solemn vow Miss Usagi."
Usagi smiled brightly. "Thank you! Minister Sloane, Lady Une, I'll leave you to go about your business now. And thanks again for everything Minister Sloane."
Minister Sloane laughed and waved a hand at Usagi. "Don't worry about it, dear."
Lady Une laughed. "Don't be a stranger Usagi! Visit me for fun sometime!"
Usagi laughed and nodded. "I will Lady Une. Believe me, I will!"
Then Usagi waved again and vanished through the door, on her way to the library.
"What an interesting child" Minister Sloane remarked. "Between you and me, she has potential to do things."
Lady Une smiled and nodded. "Also between you and me, I would have to agree, Maria. Usagi has amnesia. I asked some of my people to see what they could dig up on her but they have been unable to find anything about her before she mysteriously appeared in the gardens of this palace, unconscious. She's only been here for a matter of months but already, Usagi Tsukino – as she has named herself – is a force to be reckoned with."
Maria Sloane nodded. "I have only met her twice, including today, but I have heard a great deal about her from my colleagues. Most are besotted with her. Indeed, I think I will soon be one of them. The few who don't like her seem to uniformly have problems with the servants in this palace."
Lady Une laughed. "I noticed that too. But Usagi hasn't. She is completely innocent to that phenomenon and the fact that the better part of the people who live in this palace would walk through fire for her. Even Relena and my daughter have fallen to her spell." Lady Une's eyes became thoughtful. "Usagi Tsukino seems to have her own goals though. What they are, I cannot say but they do not seem to involve challenging any one of us for our positions."
"But you can guess what she does want?" Minister Sloane hazarded to guess.
"Only a formless suspicion. A very wild formless suspicion that bears consideration."
Maria Sloane laughed. "And that's all you will say for now, isn't it?"
Lady Une nodded.
"To business then!"
* * * * *
Usagi glared at the computer. Then she stood up on her chair and peered around the library. No one in sight. Usagi opened her mouth and let loose with an ear-piercing shriek. Feeling better, she hopped off of her chair and plopped down into her chair to regard her mutinous computer.
"That was quite a display" a voice murmured into her ear.
Usagi jumped again, not quite stifling another shriek. Jerking her head to the side, she came face to face with the smirking countenance of Lucrezia Noin. Putting her hand over her heart, Usagi glared at the other woman.
"You scared me!"
"That makes two of us" Noin replied unapologetically. She nodded at the computer. "This thing drove you to screaming?"
Usagi nodded, blushing scarlet, and sent a fierce glare at the object in question.
"Yes," she admitted. "I'm trying to do some research on it concerning a woman named Rei Hino. Her family owned the Temple I live in and I'm trying to figure out why it passed from their family's hands."
Noin grinned. "Curious, aren't you?"
Usagi nodded. "How else will I learn anything?"
"On the reliable information of your whereabouts from Paegan, I was just coming to accept your dinner invitation on behalf of Zechs and myself" Noin pulled up a chair. "But you look like you need help. When is the last record of your Rei Hino?"
Usagi named the year she disappeared and Noin frowned. "So long ago? I don't know how much we'll find. The wars in the last few centuries destroy a lot of records and knowledge about the centuries before them but I'll show you a few likely places to look for such things."
"Thank you – for both things Miss Noin."
Noin waved Usagi's thanks away, a little embarrassed about the depths of gratitude over so trivial a matter. "I haven't found anything for you yet . . .Now, pay attention . . ."
* * * * *
Zechs and Noin showed up dressed in jean, T-shirts, and loose leather jackets. Usagi stared, her mouth hanging open.
"Um . . .Usagi?" Noin asked finally. "Are you going to let us in or are you going to stare at us on the doorstep all evening?"
"You're catching flies," Zechs added with a grin.
Usagi's mouth snapped shut and she blushed scarlet as she held the door wider and stepped out of the way to let her guests in.
"I'm sorry!" she hastily apologized "I've never seen either of you wear anything so comforta – oops . . .I'm sorry! Please don't be offended!"
Both Zechs and Noin chortled, vastly amused by Usagi's slip.
"It's okay, Usagi" Noin reassured her. "The uniforms you see us in at the palace are our dress uniforms. They're not particularly comfortable or easy to maintain."
"Usually we wear our field uniforms when working" Zechs added. "Do you have any objections to our dressing down for this meeting?"
"N-No! I was just surprised, that's all!" Usagi added sheepishly, "I didn't think either of you owned any real clothes."
Both Preventers laughed.
"I'd hate to see what would happen if we'd come really casually dressed" Noin teased.
Feeling more at ease, Usagi showed them into the sparsely furnished living room. She had furnished the house exactly as Rei and her grandfather had so many centuries ago so that it almost looked as if she was in her proper time. The only differences were her appliances, the vid-phone, and the medium sized color television.
"Can I get either of you anything to drink?"
"A coke, please."
"Me too" Zechs added.
Usagi nodded and went to get the drinks. When she returned, she found Catherine, dressed in short jean shorts and a tanktop, chatting amiably with the couple. Usagi scowled mockingly.
"Does everyone know everyone else around here except me?"
Zechs and Noin murmured their thanks.
"I've met Catherine before" Noin admitted. "We're just catching up."
"I didn't know her," Zechs added soothingly.
"That makes me feel slightly better," Usagi grinned at the three. "Can I get you anything Catherine?"
Catherine shook her head. "No thanks."
Usagi plopped onto the floor. "So, will you give her the same deal as Hilde?"
"No formalities I see" Zechs noted wryly. "You just get straight to the point."
"Of course!" Usagi agreed cheerfully. "We all know each other here!"
"Lady Une briefed us on the nature of this dinner earlier" Zechs said, "not only will we take her but we'll fill out all her paperwork tonight."
"YAY!" Usagi waved her arms around in delight. "We did it Cathy! You're in!"
Catherine laughed. "Are you so excited about getting rid of me?"
"No Cathy!" Usagi hurriedly tried to assure her as she shook her head, sending her hair flying around her. "I'm just happy for you, that's all!"
Catherine, Zechs, and Noin laughed. Usagi looked confused.
"I was teasing" Catherine explained gently.
"Oh" Usagi thought a moment, then brightened. " . . .Let's eat!"
Everyone laughed.
* * * * *
The evening passed pleasantly and Usagi was humming to herself as she cleared up. Catherine was strangely silent as she helped the younger girl clear away the debris from the casual get together. After Catherine's paperwork had been filled out, Zechs and Noin had stayed and talked with the pair. They had played board games and finally watched movies together. It had been fun and the couple had left late. Usagi and Catherine were cleaning up before going to bed.
"Are you okay?" Usagi asked suddenly.
Catherine blinked at her. "Okay? I'm fine. Why wouldn't I be?"
"You're just awfully quiet. And, well, you don't look happy, Cathy."
Catherine considered her host. "And how do I look to you?"
"Tired and worried. And sad."
Catherine smiled slightly. "I am. I'm all of that."
"Why? I understand the tiredness – it's late – but the other stuff?"
"I'm worried about what Trowa will think." Catherine got a certain gleam in her eyes, a look Usagi was quite familiar with. "And I'm sad I can't tell him what I'm doing."
"And you're worried about what you're boyfriend will think and how he'll feel. And you're sad you haven't told him either."
"H-How did you know I was thinking that!" Catherine demanded before she automatically added, "And Quatre isn't my boyfriend!"
"You're in love with Quatre Raberba Winner?" Usagi demanded incredulously. "Also known as Gundam pilot 04?"
Catherine, knowing it was too late to correct her slip, nodded as she added, "He's Trowa's best friend."
Usagi sat down and laughed.
Catherine stomped her foot. "It isn't funny!"
Usagi nodded her head. "Hai! Hai! It reminded me –" Usagi cut herself off, realizing what she had almost said. 'Of Mako-chan and Minako-chan' she finished in her head.
"Of what?" Catherine asked suspiciously. "I thought you have amnesia."
"I do" Usagi admitted slowly. "I didn't think of it until you mentioned liking Quatre . . . who is your brother's best friend . . ."
"Maybe you're getting your memory back!" Catherine declared brightly, happy to change the subject. "What did you remember?"
Usagi, reluctant to let Catherine distract her, especially since it was so easy, replied slowly "Well . . . It was a flash of memory . . . I saw two girls, one blond like me and the other brunette and both two of my best friends in the universe, squealing over a trio of boys. And I knew they had a crush on these three guys, who were all friends of ours, if not as close. And what you said . . .was so like something they would say . . . They were always falling in and out of love."
"Do you remember their names?"
Usagi shook her head as her heart rebelliously cried out that names were unimportant for their souls were linked, forever. Names and faces could change with rebirth but the bonds between them would never be broken. Not by Time and not by Death. She would find them, wherever they were in her strange, new world.
"But I'll find them" she added, the intensity of her emotions spilling into her eyes and voice. "Even if I have to tear the Earth and Colonies apart, I will find them."
And Catherine, watching the blond girl, unconsciously shivered. Usagi turned her fierce gaze to focus solely on Catherine.
"I have to find my past and you have to fight Catherine. For yourself and for your bright future."
Catherine nodded her insecurity and fears melting before the fiery gaze of the younger girl.
Catherine's next words had all the solemnity of an oath. "And I will."