Disclaimer: I do not, nor will I ever own Outlaw Star or anything affiliated with said show.

"Speaking"

'Thoughts'

A Tea-less Suzuka

'It's so peaceful in the morning.' Suzuka thought as she put a kettle of water on the stove. 'At least until everyone wakes up.' Sitting down at the table, she began to idly play with her teacup while she waited. Hearing a whistle, Suzuka stood up and pulled the water off the burner. Pulling open the cupboard above the stove, she reached her hand up and froze. Something wasn't right. Looking up, her eyes widened as she took in the sight. Her precious tea was gone. "JIM!!" She screamed as she flew out of the kitchen. Throwing open his door, Suzuka collapsed by his bed. "J-jim, the tea is gone." She cried. Getting no response, she brought her fist down on the boy's head, hard.

"Ow!" Jim cried out as he sat up. "What was that for? I'm trying to sleep."

"My tea is gone." Suzuka sniffled pitifully.

"Hmm?" Jim yawned as he scratched his head sleepily. Seeing the assassin narrow her eyes, he shook his head and tried to focus. "Ok, so you're tea is gone." Jim said as the cobwebs began to clear.

"That's what I said." Suzuka replied in annoyance. "But why is the tea gone? You're supposed to make sure the kitchen is always stocked."

"Oh, I must have gotten so busy yesterday that I completely forgot." Jim said as he stretched. "I'll get some when I go out later today."

"But I need some now." Suzuka whined. When Jim just raised an eyebrow, she narrowed her eyes. "You have 30 seconds to get out of your bed before I destroy it." She said as she held out her bokken. "With or without you in it."

Paling, Jim flew out of bed and tossed on some clothes. "I'll be back in 10 minutes." He said before running off.

Smiling happily, Suzuka went back to the kitchen and put her water back on while she waited for her tea to arrive.

Nine minutes and 45 seconds later, a breathless Jim came flying into the kitchen and tossed a bag down on the table. Collapsing in a chair, he watched as Suzuka made her tea and took a small sip. "Can I go back to bed now?" He asked after he'd caught his breath.

Raising an eyebrow, Suzuka looked at the boy strangely. "I don't care, it's not like you have to ask my permission." She said calmly.

Blinking, Jim shook his head and stood up. "Crazy mood swings of a tea obsessed woman." He muttered as he headed back to bed.

'Strange kid.' Suzuka thought as she took another sip of her tea. 'He must be very tired.' Leaning back, she smiled before bringing the cup back to her lips. 'Such a peaceful morning.'