Em: pretty much. Lol but as much as lashing back would have been nice Chibi Usa needed to see how badly her actions could hurt others. She might had just assumed Usagi was reacting back instead she realized that she took it to far as Usagi left. As it is Chibi Usa is about to learn a lesson when it comes to family. Mamo needs to learn that he needs to own up to his own actions or lack thereof and words. This is kind of him understanding that now. I brought the Setsuna thing due to repeated stories or posts I would read over time to explain her red eyes. Not to mention the 'motherly' way Setsuna treats her, I had to point that out. Does she truly think Setsuna is her mother, no, but she had to say something to affect the Usagi whose more mature now. Although we will get into some future stuff just not any time soon! LOL
damonika2009: thanks glad you enjoyed it.
adoore: he will…in a sense…lol. Usagi has grown quite a bit its one of the reasons I had her being a double agent I the 'R & D' season. It gave her this edge to have two different perspectives and to fight that much harder to maintain who she was and to do the right thing at the end. Chibi Usa was not my favorite character but she did become a more acceptable one whenever she got all 'daughtery' around Usagi. when she acted as a goofy kid she was cutie, but when she acted like a brat to Usagi then I felt it was out of line, but more so out of line was everyone trying to avoid stepping on her little girl toes. Mamo made it worse in the end as he was the one the child favored.
kera69love: her problem is that she's not used to this Usagi and she doesn't want to get used to her, but he's not being given a choice. And yeah no smut but I will make up for that, I just knew that this blow up NEEDED to happen.
Guest(1): she did put them both in their places and Mamo will be feeling the residual effects of it himself. And Mamo will feel some jealousy but not to whom you'd think. It's an angle I've been wanting to play out for a little while now. A little something that I hope will make people smile and give a little imagination on. I wanted to add more but thought it might be to much.
tryntee13: it was needed. Usagi needed to get that all off of her chest. She's held a lot in and needed to let it go.
trish1573: wow thank you! Emotions were the main feature there.
Setsuna-Chan22: So true! And while the original ep wasn't my favorite, I wanted to work it out so that it would have been an episode I would have loved to watch. As for a prequel after Supers and Stars…idk….well see.
CynDLou12: I think Chibi Usa so had that coming. Time for her bratty ways to dissolve.
Guest (2): I assume you really meant to say 'miss the smut'. Lol it will return just give it a minute…or two.
AimlesslyGera: It was coming. I think Mamo was more on damage control and just got shell shocked by what Chibi Usa said. As it is I agree, Chibi Chibi was so much better. It would have REALLY been nice had Chibi Chibi been Usagi and Mamo's second child in the future but I don't think that was the case.
NeoPrincessRini: you'll be seeing some more Jealous Mamo to come. Te, he I'm a tad evil.
Guest (3): its been a while since I've read the manga but from what I remember I wasn't to keen on the relationship in the manga or how they were with Chibi Usa in the series. As if they were the parents when it was Usagi as the mother. Mamo didn't seem to say anything ever about it or talk to Setsuna about it. In the series I think they put it off to her being the same age as him so it was more along the lines of communication but still…they pressed that to far. If they had had an affair then Usagi would have thrown in a towel. She loves her man but it would break her heart into a million pieces id he ever cheated on her with someone else let alone a senshi of hers.
Avales: ironically I got the idea from an episode of 'buffy'. It was just a random memory and it worked out.
Kitna: lol wait for it.
Guest (4): yep! I had to put it in there.
Guest (5): there'll be more of a glimpse coming soon. Lol
Guest (6): yup…wait for it. It'll be soon.
18 reviews, sweet! Let's see what you all think of this one. Not sure if this needs a slight warning or not but if so there is one for 'drifting'. Hopefully you'll get my meaning. Read and review.
Sailor Moon S 'Rise of the Messiah' chi/ep.35
(I had a complete emotional meltdown after I left Mamoru apartment. Crying silently over how much I felt she hated me and how frustrated I was with Mamoru's ineffective support. I had tried so hard to understand her, to find some kind of common ground to build a positive relationship from. But the stubborn, hot headed little girl wouldn't give me even the smallest of chances to prove anything to her.
Why did she keep me at arm's length, why wasn't I allowed to love her...to be loved by her? I couldn't figure it out. With Chibi Usa's cruel words still echoing my brain I walked on auto pilot to the bus stop. This horrible night drew me back into the Delta and brought me to Haruka's luxury condo door. A modern tower constructed of various plains of glass facades that shone like crystal in the dying light of the evening. Known as Tenoe Tower's.
I knew the apartment was shared by both Senshi, even though Michiru owned her own condo complex on the other side of the Infinity Sandbank. Along with Setsuna's own condo tower at the peak of the reclamation area's triangle. I was kind of hoping only Haruka was there. She had a way of comforting me like Mamo – chan could. But he was the last person I wanted comfort from tonight.
I stood staring at the fake cedar panels on the door for a good five minutes. Taking deep cleansing breaths and willing myself to knock. We weren't on the best of term either, but I needed to see her. Holding my breath I rapped lightly on the door, just below the key hole and listened to the rapid beat of my heart as I was seeking to soothe my anxiety with its steady pulsing rhythm.
"Coming." Her voice echoed out, husky and breathless. I felt lucky that she was home then suddenly I went cold, wondering if I had interrupted something.
The door slowly creaked open, revealing the short dusty blonde dressed for bed, I assumed. In a pair of track shorts and a white tank top. She leaned nonchalantly against the doorframe for a moment with that same wiry smile she always wore. Yet her eyes did not share the cheer her smile projected.
"Haruka..." I swallowed, nervously pulling at my fingers. "Can I come in?"
She scrutinized me for a moment then chuckled lightly.
"Sure, Koneko. You look like you just lost your best friend." She opened her door wide. She was restrained, somewhat emotionally detached, holding herself in check it seemed.
Perhaps it was the defeated look on my face, or the factor that I barely spoke but she seemed to get that something bad had occurred recently and it wasn't senshi related either. She ushered me towards the leather couch that faced a gigantic window that seemed to take over the entire expansive living room.
The place was spartan, masculine in its design. With leather couches and chairs, a simple low coffee table set between. The walls covered in framed posters of motocross athletes. A modern curving reclining chair sat before the huge wall sized window, I figured she either read or took naps in the sunlight there. It hadn't changed much since the last time I had come. I felt a reserved comfort here in Haruka's domain.
"I will go make us some tea." She offered, retreating into the open luxury kitchen that was set in the front of the condo. Leaving me to stare mournfully out of her panoramic window that overlooked the bay. I watched the blinking lights of the cargo ships coming into port, scanned the landscape of glass tower's in the distance and fell deeper into myself. I barely noticed when she returned with a black tea pot and twin cups. She sat down beside me without a word, placing a reassuring hand on my leg as we watched the late night bay.
She was the first to speak.
"Talk to me princess." Her eyes were stern, wanting answers. Knowing that I needed a strong hand to guide me through this confession.
"I just needed some space from my old life." I groaned, slumping into the overstuffed couch and folding my arms stubbornly.
"So my place is where you plan to hide?" She smirked. Raising her arm up and draping it behind me, drawing me into her side in a comforting embrace.
"Perhaps this time I won't let you leave." She flirted playfully, rubbing my arm tenderly with the tips of her fingers. Her touch made me shiver, as her ghosting caress upward was so very seductive. Then as if gravity was pulling me towards her, I leaned into her without thought, seeking her embrace even more as I pressed myself up against her breasts. I could smell her fresh, clean scent that reminded me of open meadow's beyond the city.
It was the smell of freedom, of wild open places that stretched on forever. Clean and airy it filled my head and made me dizzy. My heart was racing at her nearness, as her finger's drew away from my arm and began to caress my cheek. The touch made me instinctively crane my head back to look up at her. Finding that she was staring fondly down upon me. Our eyes locked, mere inched away. I found myself becoming lost in the warm depths of her sky blue.
A yearning reflected back to me, I was unsure if it was attraction or merely a need to confess herself. I could also feel my face flush, my skin suddenly felt hot and I began to tremble in her arms. She could be so intoxicating, her bold, soothing personality quickly dwarfing my own. It was making me become submissive to her subtle playful nature. I was losing myself to rather quickly to her beautiful scent and sweet caresses, and it scared the crap out of me.
Clearing my throat not to subtly I pulled away from her embrace and hopped off the couch as if she was on fire. Needing to get some space and clear my head. The woman was like a human drug that slowly pulled down my inhibitions. I was like puddy in her hands and she loved to play with me.
Haruka laughed brightly at my fierce blush, and flustered pacing.
"Relax, Usagi - chan." She gave me some peace and poured us two cups of tea.
"Perhaps this was a bad idea..." I whined, twisting my hands against my stomach, seeking to ease the fluttering swirling down there. I swallowed several time seeking to relieve the lump of anxiety growing there.
"That is in the eye of the beholder." She took a hesitant sip, worried she might burn her lips on the drink. "Personally, I think coming to hang out with me in the middle of the night is a rather exciting idea." She smiled broadly behind her cup at her less then subtle innuendo.
I couldn't help but giggle at the dirty thoughts now spinning like wild fire in my brain. Haruka was a naughty, naughty girl. I kept them contained though, preventing Mamo – chan from seeing them at all.
"No..." I rolled my eyes, keeping on with my pacing. "I just wanted a break, some space...to take a breath. Perhaps find a new perspective." I rambled. "I have so many conflicting things going on, my brain's wrapped up in such a tight knot I can't seem to find a way to release it."
"Honestly, Koneko." Haruka jumped to her feet in frustration, striding to my side and braced both hands on my shoulder's to quell my nervous pacing. "You look ready to fall apart."
"I am falling apart." I looked up at her, my wet eyes pleading for her to make it all better to take away my confusion, my fears and anguish. I had so much crushing down on me right now and no one to help relieve the pressure.
"Talk to me, then. Princess." She took my hand and gently guided me back to the couch. I was trembling with so many mixed up emotions that were building to a crescendo inside of me. I felt ready to explode in a million fragments, but if I did I doubted I could pick up all the pieces anyways. There would just be to many...
"Things are just all messed up and I don't know where to start fixing everything." I moaned.
"My father's being so stubborn and unreasonable, my little brother's a self-righteous jerk, Mamo - chan's lack of spine is frustrating me, and Chibi Usa hates me!" I ranted.
"I am feeling wound so tight, like a rubber band...I just might snap!" I heaved a big breath. "I just want everything to stop! Can you make the world stop spinning for a just a bit so I can breathe?" I was near tears by the end.
I couldn't get right into the meat of it, so I just started from the beginning. With how my father was treating Mamo - chan, how I had run out of the house weeks ago. The lies and betrayal he had endured from me. The guilt I felt for the suffering I put my family through. My anger and feelings of injustice that my father had created inside of me. How Mamoru was frustrating me with his lack of support and constant coddling of our future daughter.
My hurt feelings and festering confusion over my conflicts with Chibi Usa. It all just tumbled out as if I was purging myself of some kind of mental poison. But by the end it all I felt a bit of the weight lifted from my shoulders. Haruka by that point was just sitting there next to me, holding my hand and smiling in that silent reassuring way of hers.
"Well, I can't really give you much guidance about dealing with fathers. Since I was never any good at getting along with my own." She smirked, rubbing the back of her head ruefully.
"I am a woman right?" I blurted out. Speaking as if it was both a question and a statement of truth. Haruka's brows furrowed as she looked to me with both amused and confused, by the sudden shift in topic.
"Yes..." She stated cautiously.
"But I am not an adult yet." I pouted, squeezing my hands between my legs and staring sadly down at her wood flooring.
"No, I guess not." She shrugged. "You are only fifteen, one doesn't become and adult and enter the responsibilities of society till they are eighteen."
"Well, most fifteen years old don't have to worry about fighting monsters on a daily basis and saving the earth over and over again." I groused.
"True." Haruka conceded with a smile as silence then reigned between us for a bit.
"Well, let's work out one problem at a time. Shall we." Haruka, passed me my tea as I went into detail over how convoluted and tense my life back at home was.
"He just will not let me grow up!" I wailed. "I can't go home, it would be to strange. But I can't continue to live with Mamo - chan either. That puts him in an unseemly position. He has enough problems to deal with at the college. The last thing I want is to burden him. He needs to keep his reputation clean. "
"And getting caught living with, and having an intimate relationship with a middle schooler is..." Haruka laughed.
I groaned and rolled my eyes. "I really wish I could just fast forward through a couple more years and be done with it."
"I can't go back to being that innocent girl anymore, but I can't go forward to being a true adult yet either." I huffed. "I am trapped in this frustrating limbo."
"Well, why don't you just move out and get your own place?" Haruka offered, the logic was irrefutable.
"Yeah..." I mused. "Why not?" I found myself laughing.
We retreated into her study, a small room just off from the kitchen. This place was all business with a huge cherry wood desk set before a large picture window. A black leather executive chair sat behind the desk. The computer was top of line with a large flat monitor. A black leather couch sat against one wall with a matching cherry wood coffee table in front. The walls decorated with framed clippings of Tenoe Inc's many awards and professional acclaim.
She really was a business tycoon. I began to admire her even more than before. "How old were you when you left home?" I inquired as she sat behind her desk.
"Uhm...I left in my junior year of High School I guess." She shrugged. "Went to a boarding school here in Tokyo."
"That's when everything changed for you." I nodded.
"Yep, met Michiru, became a Senshi and now I have more responsibilities to worry about than ever before." She sighed.
"You're talking the choir, lady." I chuckled and we shared a fond smile. I watched her log onto her computer. The screen's bright illumination bathed her face. Making her naturally pale skin look sallow and tired.
I felt guilty for bothering her tonight.
"Maybe I should let you sleep." I chucked a thumb towards the door.
"If you leave, Koneko I will never forgive you." She smirked. "So get your little ass behind this desk and help me find you a cheap apartment in a reasonable district of Asabu."
I nodded and smiled, moving to stand beside her as she searched.
"We are looking for something decent, a safe place for a young woman to live alone. Lower middle class but not rat invested slum. I don't want to have to worry about having to kick some mugger's ass when I come to visit." She hissed. The division of income in Juuban could be rather severe in Central Tokyo.
I chuckled lightly as we began to work out my budget. With pen and scrap note pad, we set to work on finding a place.
"You are going to need to work a part time job, perhaps two make rent and living expenses." She advised a while later.
"I will do what I need to." I responded, my voice stern with conviction. I was ready to strike out on my own, to chart my own course as an adult. It solved my home issues and my Mamo - chan problems. Chibi Usa was still going to be a struggle, but perhaps only time would mend that bridge. But as we searched the hope and excitement I felt at moving out on my own was tempered by the reality of how hard it might be to pull off.
We talked in the office for a long time, our strange little bond started to come back. Michiru I knew walked in on us every so often. A look of concern on her face. I knew she wondered how this blow up on my part, would change anything between Chibi Usa, Mamo – chan and me, but I just didn't know what to do.
Eventually Michiru came in and found us sitting back on the couch. She had been painting as looked rather messy and colorful. I explained to her everything I had with Haruka. She nodded with a knowing if fond smile.
"I feel so bad for snapping on him tonight!" I whined, raising my face to the roof in desperation. "We rarely fight...but it seems lately it's always about Chibi Usa." I sighed.
"It seems Mamoru-kun has quite the soft spot for your future daughter." Michiru laughed lightly.
"That's an understatement, he spoils her, rarely if ever sets any boundaries or rules. Leaving me to be the bad guy all the time." I growled. I think maybe Chibi Usa thought I was just a buzz kill and that was why she treated me so poorly. I was the one who disciplined, the one who set the rules while Mamoru was the Master of all things fun! I was really starting to resent him.
"So you have talked to him about this?" Michiru asked.
"Yes, but he is dragging his feet. As if he's scared." I mulled it over, realizing for myself a little of his issues with being stern.
"Mamoru has no family?" Haruka spoke up softly.
"No, he's has been alone for a long time." I nodded.
"So, you and Chibi Usa are the first family he has had a decade perhaps." Michiru stated, continuing on with our group hypothesis over why Mamo - chan was such a softy when it came to Chibi Usa.
"Yes..." I stated, brows furrowed.
"He might not feel comfortable or perhaps confident as a father, since he has had no role model to emulate." Haruka shrugged her shoulder's.
"You find taking on a more parental role with Chibi Usa easier because you have had a mother your whole life. You know exactly how to be a mother, you have seen one in action for fifteen years. While Mamoru may be floundering a bit, because he doesn't understand how to be a father." Michiru sighed, offering me a small smile before leaning forward and pouring herself some tea.
"Or, he's a wuss, to scared to discipline her properly because he's worried she might get mad at him and disappear just like his parents did." Haruka shrugged.
I felt absolutely miserable for getting so upset with him, not even trying to understand why he acted the way he did.
"She would never do that. Family loves unconditionally..." I stated in shock.
"How would he know that? He is just muttling through this new family dynamic the best he can, I figure." Haruka defended.
I bowed my head.
"He is trying though." Michiru offered, setting her empty tea cup down.
"Yes." I moaned, slumping in defeat against the back of the couch.
"Then I figure patience is the best policy, he'll come around and so will your daughter." Michiru slapped her thighs and stood up.
"Don't stay up all night gossiping and carrying on. We've got school in the morning and so does Usagi - chan." She stated motherly, bending down to give Haruka a sweet goodnight kiss. I watched Haruka responded passionately, her arms snaking around Michiru's waist and tracing small circles with her fingers in the small of her back. The kiss was soft and their lips lingered for a few extra moments after the initial kiss, as if reluctant to part from each other.
"I promise, Michi. Sweet dreams." She patted Michiru's cheek lovingly as the woman finally pulled away. Tossing both of us a curt wave, as she headed back down the hall to wash up and prepare for bed.
"Behave, Ruka-chan!" She called back, cheerfully.
"Don't I always?" Haruka returned playfully, receiving a smart sounding laugh from Michiru.
I was blushing like mad again at their playful banter and very loving physical exchange. A lesbian relationship was just so exotic I couldn't help my naive reactions.
We talked till we passed out on the couch together. As the morning sun began to rise over the ocean, sending it's warmth through the living room's panoramic view I found myself draped over Haruka's chest in the very same position I slept in with Mamoru. Her sweet scent filled my nose, the warmth of her bare, smooth skin pressed beneath my cheek. I felt a slightly damp puddle beneath my chin, I had drooled on Haruka's belly!
Mortified and seeking to cover up my mouth malfunction, I quickly wiped my chin with the sleeve of my pink sweater. Craning my head up, finding she was sprawled beneath me with arms flopped over her forehead, her tank top having ridden up to just below her bust. As I had unconsciously used her stomach as my pillow. My smaller body curled up between her legs along the rest of the couch.
She felt me rustling, groggily shifting my position upon her as I jerked up in shock and intense nerves, at how we intimately we slept. My whole body was glowing now with humiliation not just for the position but for the drool stain I feared was there from sleeping.
"I regret nothing..." She commented slyly, an arrogant smirk pulling on her gorgeous lips. An insinuation that we had actually engaged in something sexual last night.
"I...but...I...no..." I stuttered, completely flustered and half awake. I bolted of her lap and across the room, slowly understanding she was just playing with me yet again. Our night together had been completely innocent. Needless to say, I gathered my coat, bid her a fond thanks and exited her misbegotten lair of sexual intrigue.
I was hetero...god damn it! But the woman made me curious and I wasn't ready to deal with that thought process. The last I heard upon closing the condo's front door was Haruka laughing heartily and Michiru scolding her.
I knew I had to get to school. Still in regular clothing, I rushed to Mamo – chan's apartment, hoping he'd be gone already. I used my key and dashed to the bedroom. Feeling like a coward that I was hoping Mamo - chan wasn't home. I felt I needed to apologize, but I also wanted an apology in return. We had to work out a better system for dealing with Chibi Usa, in which I wasn't always the bad guy, but yet where he didn't have to take on the brunt of her volatile personality either.
I understood now he wasn't secure enough yet, to just trust blinding that she would not start to hate him if he cracked down on her to hard. We were a team, in fighting the bad guys and dealing the tiny terror that was our daughter.
Slipping into my school fuku, without thought I turned to leave. Stopping dead in my tracks, as Mamo - chan was standing in the doorway. Dressed in a pair of ripped weathered jeans and a tight muscle shirt. His hair was a tousled mess, and a fine layer of stubble was dusting his jaw. The man was far to sexy sometimes to be legal. )
He had been ogling his girlfriend and her frantic dressing in their room the moment she got in there. His professor had canceled the morning class due to health issues and therefore he was off from his first class. Not that it made a difference. He couldn't sleep a wink last night. Ridiculous thoughts of Usagi being upset and begin seduced by Haruka plagued that night. Naughty images from his over active imagination gave way to the most vivid hentai he had ever witnessed.
A slide show of erotic images of the two of them kissing deeply. Caressing every inch of each other as Haruka, taught his little bunny all about the carnal sins that could be performed between two women.
At one point his mind even gave a visual of Haruka's head in a place only he had ever been as his girl writhed and moaned in a state of intense pleasure that only Haruka could give her. That had been the point he woke up in a cold sweat, and oddly yet remorsefully aroused. He didn't like the concept of his Usagi being with someone, ANYONE else. However before his imagination could keep up the cruelty upon his heart his mind managed to rationalize that notion.
It was right now however that even in her haste to get dressed, he had admired her nude body with a sense of possessiveness.
Thong lace panties with a matching baby blue lacy bra kept her supported. He'd been tempted to go in there and make up last night to her…many times over but the moment she turned and spotted his obvious lust her demeanor shifted. Many different emotions crossed her face, ranging from nervous anxiety, remorse to obvious attraction. She even admired his own physic briefly, then her faint smile fell back towards anger.
Her body stiffening, hands balling at her waist as she waited from him to speak. He sighed knowing the conversation he'd had with Chibi Usa hadn't gotten as far as he wanted it to. She had defended herself, then tried to pout. Even going as far as to lay a guilt trip upon him. But he made sure to stay strong and get his point across that he would not put up with her disrespecting Usagi ever again.
In the end she had left in remorseful tears, nodding in understanding as she left the apartment for her lonely walk back to Minato as Mamoru had been far to upset to walk her home this time.
"She's having a hard time with all the changes. She doesn't want you to be different, she isn't fitting in here as well as last time. I think there is more going on, she's keeping a lot of problems to herself." He stated, as Usagi sighed sadly. "If it has anything to do with the future me, then she can't really talk to much about it. But I'm still me, I'm just older now. So is she...our relationship should be able to change as well. But I think she is blaming me for something, that's why she's is acting out." I stated, with a grimace.
He nodded, "Hai, but I don't think your right, it isn't the you of this time she's mad at. I think something's are happening in the future." He sighed, scratching the back of his head. "But she is sorry for what she said. I think it was a fit of uncontrolled anger. I told her she needs to respect you and realize things are different now. That just as you have improved yourself, she needs to do better too." He confessed. She nodded.
"Just give her some time to adjust." He advised.
Now Usagi was curious, "So does this mean my prince has his back bone with him?" she crossed her arms over her chest. He sighed, "Do you see her here?" to that Usagi looked about before saying, timidly. "No."
He walked out of the bedroom, "That's because she went back to your parents place. I was this close…" he indicates the tiny little space between his fingers, "To spanking her. You didn't deserve in the least what she said to you." Usagi nodded then accepted his arms wrapping themselves around her.
She knew she had been right in her words. Chibi Usa obviously needed to relent, give in and accept the changes that had occurred. Then she ducked out of his embrace as he sought to entrap her, then dashed for the entry way a huge smile on her face. Where she flung her shoes back on, "Going to be late for school!" She called, playfully. He smirked ruefully as he followed her to the entryway of his place.
She then dashed into his arms, giving him the sweetest kiss she could for the time allowed, before she ran out refusing to be ambushed. He smiled and sighed, hoping that this meant things were going to be okay now.
Outside of the apartment tower, Usagi paused briefly before dashing to the bus. She had sensed her newest stalker. She scanned the crowds milling around the bus stop as she boarded but saw only stranger's. Sitting down near the back she mulled over her ill feelings.
Akito had been slowly watching both Usagi and Mamoru for a week easily. Getting to know their routines, their habits. He noted she rarely went home and spent a great deal of time at Mamoru's. But they were dating so it wasn't unusual. He needed to find something to use against them. To get them apart long enough to get her alone. Or at least set her up in a way that Mamoru might doubt her feelings for him. Some unsettling situation he would make an assumption from.
The day began to cool off as late afternoon set in. Usagi and the girls got together at the temple after classes for a study session. Settling down at Rei's low table in her bedroom, now scattered with books and snacks. Laughter and gossip filled the air as the girls sought to reclaim a piece of their adolescence they were not always allowed to indulge in.
"So how goes stalking Jinta Araki?" Makoto stated smugly towards Minako, popping a potato chip in her mouth.
"He is so old news." Minako scoffed, tapping her pencil in irritation against the lined paper of her binder.
"I'm glad you didn't let him get you down for long." Usagi smiled, snatching the bag of chips from Makoto who had been hogging them for the past five minutes.
"Well, I couldn't stay mad at him. The whole contest was his manger's idea to create a big drama story for the local gossip rag. It was a stunt to promote his new protégé. He was never really on board with it, he loved his fans and would never want to hurt them. But he had no choice in the end. Those uncaring bastards at his label forced his hand. He apologized to me and all the girls who participated in a public account in Teen Beat Magazine a couple weeks back." She sighed. "So it's all water over the bridge."
"Under..." Ami sweat dropped.
"Nani?" Minako questions oblivious to the slip up.
"Under the bridge...Minako - chan. Under." Ami sought to explain. Sounding tired and exasperated.
The honey blonde merely shrugged. "I guess his new girl was in remission from childhood leukemia and it was her dream to be an idol. Since his main charity is that children's hospital he made it his mission to make her famous."
Minako finished wistfully. "It's sort of romantic if you think about it."
They all giggled and shook their heads, Minako was such a fame hound.
Falling back into studying and reporting local drama at their various middle schools, evening began to fall over the Temple.
Ami saw the significant improvement Usagi made on her practice tests versus the ones done up several months prior where she'd still get them half wrong. The mathematics she was actually doing much better in whereas her English thanks to reviewing with Mamoru as well, was now in the top ten of her class. It was safe to say that Ami was impressed with her.
Her happy thoughts over Usagi's grades soon soured back into her worry over her new student advisor. Akito...even though she was currently at Juuban High. She made a point of going back to their Middle school during free periods to check up on her friends.
She was getting bad vibes from this Akito. Having witnessed a very lurid expression on his face towards Usagi, down in the main entryway of the school one afternoon. One that was promptly dismissed by the long blonde who was ignoring him, to busy trying to put away her uwabakii so she could leave for the day. The look of domination, of possessive intent in the man's stare made Ami cringe. He wanted their princess. Even she could tell that much.
Her further investigations within the school was not encouraging. His improper intentions went unnoticed by other students or teachers. Usagi was keeping the bulk of his harassment to herself, which she found unsettling. But Makoto was on high alert, ever since the violent confrontation a few weeks back when Akito lost his temper on Usagi. Now the brunette was acting like some kind of silent body guard, hovering around the office every time Usagi had meetings with the vile man.
"So Usagi - chan how are the sessions with Akito going?" Ami inquired sweetly, her hidden agenda obvious to everyone in the room. Usagi smiled at her over protective Guardian, giving them a brief explanation. Thanks to Makoto asking a week prior since they had all been concerned for their princess. She had been enduring giving weekly status reports on the man's clear intentions.
Always noting that none of the girls bothered to put the respected 'san' at the end of his name. All of the girls felt he was a creep and didn't deserve an honorific. Usagi tried to shrug it off, "Haven't seen him. I usually only do every few weeks. Thank kami." she sighed, "Akito's on a mission for something sly, between Mamo - chan and I." the girl huffed.
Ami nodded her head, "Maybe I could - " but Usagi stopped her, "Don't bother. I'm trying to stay as far away from anything 'Akito related' as possible. I don't need his presence in any form in my life any more than it already is. If anything the only thing we should focus on besides testing is trying to dig up information on Hotaru - chan's medical past." to that Ami's eyes lit up in remembrance. Going to her notebooks she pulled out a large file folder of paperwork, "Speaking of..." she started.
The girls focus shifted as the medical information poured out, "This is all from Hotaru - chan?" Minako asked.
"Hai, she's been in and out of the hospital since she was barely four. An explosion knocked her unconscious. Here's the strange thing though." Ami stated, the girls looked to her, curiously.
"Her records were sealed. I had to hack into the medical archive of the hospital." she gulped as if she had nearly committed murder. But the fact that she had done it without needing any of the girls to pressure her into it this time. Meant she was becoming more bold, more relaxed in the law breaking department. Minako didn't know if she should be proud or scared that Ami was now accustomed to bending the rules.
She had come a long way since the days last summer forging Usagi's medical records when she had been kidnapped to Nemesis. She was a regular delinquent now, just like the rest of them.
"Why would her file be sealed?" Rei asked. "Usually it's for high profiled cases, like a politician or in this case someone with power and money. Who didn't want anyone finding out about her strange illness." the girls looked in shock to her, "Before the explosion she was fine. A healthy, playful child. Afterwards, she started to pass out, have the seizures, everything that's happening now that is. The only thing that seems to be a glitch is whenever she would black out a claim of violence was filed against her." Ami licked her lips nervously. Usagi narrowed her eyes.
She had a hard time believing that anyone could put any type of 'claim' against such a sweet innocent girl. "Like what?" Makoto asked, "Like she would hurt someone."
"Of course the person always claimed they did nothing to start it but a few rumors would circulate through the school system that she was being picked on for her medical issues." Ami began again. Usagi frowned.
"They probably instigated something and it forced her to use her powers on them." Usagi defended haughtily.
Ami looked to her thoughtful face, "You seem pretty protective of her lately." Usagi looked up, "I see a little bit of me in her at that young age." The girls looked to her with concern, "A lot of people, student wise, made fun of me due to my poor grades. I couldn't focus well in class, just barely made it by. Gained a few friends but I still held that lazy student reputation. "
"Like people only seeing bad grades or bad eating habits." Rei nodded in agreement, smiling with a smart quirk to her expression towards Usagi.
Who stuck out her tongue and pulled down a lower eyes lid in silent retaliation. She was no longer that lazy, klutzy, crybaby that Rei was insinuating.
"Or that you're some strange temple daughter, who curses people just because you're shy and have a quick a temper." She added.
"Hai," Usagi sighed, point made. She gave Rei a one arms hug of understanding. Everyone got pigeon holed from time to time.
"Hotaru - chan was probably in some form, verbal or otherwise attacked and more than likely through a seizure like state attacked unknowingly back. She's just as afraid of her power as the outer senshi are. You saw how she reacted with Chibi Usa. She's scared for others around her." Usagi defended. The girls nodded in agreement, "I think you should dig into why her files were sealed. I bet it has something to do with her father. Better yet find out if there's any records of a Kaori on his employee list." the question made Rei perk her head up.
"Nani?" Usagi asked, "Nothing it's just...you still surprise us Usagi - chan is all." She assured, ruffling the golden blondes hair fondly. Usagi still stunned her with asking the right questions and asking questions that otherwise they would have potentially over looked. "Why 'Kaori'? Who is she?" Minako inquired, doodling absently on her paper. Disguising the fact she was taking notes, gathering information for herself to check into later.
Usagi blanched realizing she hadn't had the chance to tell the girls about her, "I believe she's Kaolinite. She looks IDENTICAL to her. But upon seeing me nothing, no recognition." the girls looked in shock, "Why didn't you attack her?" Makoto and Rei demanded in unison.
She looked to them incredulously, "Okay one, she never attacked me and believe me she had chances, two, Hotaru - chan was there for every encounter, three, she seems to have no memory of who I am and four, I'm not going to transform and 'open fire' per say in a high class neighborhood where anyone could be looking out any window." Usagi responded, her voice sounding high pitched and retaliatory.
Rei shushed down after that point had been made.
"Although I can't be certain it is her. Either way I've had no way to attack her without the risk of exposure." Usagi sighed, "And... she hasn't done anything I have no reason to attack her." She whined. "She been unreasonably peaceful."
"For all we know she's Kaolinite's doppelganger twin! I don't know! So far she's only been an annoyance to Hotaru - chan." Usagi explained exasperated by the turn of events. "Besides I've been doing some patrols out and about around the Delta, same as Luna and Artemis have been." she added on.
Rei for one was shocked. First Usagi had implemented asking about why the records were sealed now she had used doppelganger in a sentence and used it correctly but she seemed to also know the meaning of it. She really had to cut the blonde some serious slack. It seems as if she had gained a lot more than a decent sex drive living with Mamoru this last week. She was maturing into a great leader. This was the woman that she could stand proud and tall behind. Suddenly she smiled and looked to her princess in a new light.
It seemed Usagi had changed a lot over the last few months. Perhaps her time with Mamoru and her time being stuck with the dark moon clan made her see the world differently and want to do something about it. She was amazed how sometimes a little change of events could change someone and their take on things for the rest of the lives. She always backed Moon up in battle but now knew that Usagi was far from the crybaby she once was when they first met and for that she smiled wider.
"So far nothing." she finalized when the girls just stared at her.
"I'll look at his records but that will only get me so far, if she's Kaolinite I doubt she would be on his payroll." Ami answered, the girls agreed, "She works at his home only. Helps out since Hotaru - chan's father is busy with work." Usagi added, the girls mulled it over.
"I'll see but no guarantees." Ami nod advised. Usagi merely sighed in agreement while Rei seemed to be off in her own little world. Her eyes were distant, staring down at the table as if at nothing. Her mind falling back into that dark place where her dreams of the coming silence reigned supreme.
It seemed that once the conversation came back to Hotaru her thoughts of recent dreams plagued her. She knew for a factor that the person in the dreams was an agent of darkness. She could only astute that she was dreaming of visions of the 'messiah of silence' and the destruction of the world that was around her. The short dark hair was distinctive and reminded her of the girl in particular that they all knew.
The red glowing eyes were startling though, filled with such violence, such hate, such incredible power to destroy it chilled her to the core. She however refused to believe it was their mild mannered Hotaru.
But the weapon in the girls hand spoke for itself, a glaive. A weapon she used to end all living things. Even still she begged the young woman in her visions to save everyone. To not smite all living things around her, even as the world around her seemed to crumble. The weapon itself longer than her wielder with a sense of purpose came down in an axing motion.
It had become a recurring dream like a vision of death. She had no clue what it meant only that Hotaru may be at the epicenter of it. But she refused to believe that Haruka and Michiru along with Setsuna may have been right. She didn't want to believe that they would have to sacrifice or harm poor innocent Hotaru to save the lives of millions. Although on that thought she internally winced. Logically you take that one person out of the equation to save the rest but that's not who they were. They didn't sacrifice people.
Before she could get any further into her thoughts Chibi Usa skipped through the sliding door of the room. Dressed in her jean overalls and red striped long sleeve shirt, a pink hoody tied around her waist. Rei was thankful for the distraction, as it prevented her siding with the outer senshi in her silent debate. As a senshi of fire and war she strategized all possible outcomes. But as a senshi of Serenity's inner court you did everything in your power to AVOID loss of any and all innocents. Even to that of your own life.
She'd much rather sacrifice herself to save an innocent child rather than let that child suffer for her. The guilt alone would be crushing upon her very soul.
(Looking like a girl ready to ask for something she put on a pouty face and asked, "Gomen a sai for bothering you during your exam session but..." She acted as if nothing bad had happened between us last night. It drove me nuts! But I could already tell whatever the pink haired child would be asking for would cost me money, "What is it and how much will it cost me?" I groaned, deciding to just ignore our spat last night as well. I already had a feeling this would be the first of many things I would get asked for.)
Now I know how mama and papa felt with Shingo and me...
(I kept the thought from Mamo - chan as I knew he needed to focus on his thesis for his professor. He was currently at the university drowning in research at the main library. "I have a favor to ask of my 'dear older sister, Usagi'." She crooned. I mentally groaned and outwardly repeated her words, "Dear sister…?" I really wanted to ask her if she thought I would fall for her trap of paying for something so easily.
If she refused to treat me like her mother, or without any respect period then perhaps I would just stop trying to treat her like a daughter and without respect either. It was a spiteful thought and I squashed quickly. Besides I should be more like 'dear mother' or rather 'mother may I?'
"The opening of a new planetarium!" Chibi Usa brought to the table, hopping on her knees excitedly as she handed over a glossy pamphlet. Makoto took the pamphlet and read over the front. Chibi Usa then stated, "It'll be a nice learning experience for me." She added, her eyes bright and hopeful. I internally groaned. That was the oldest trick in the book to use education as a way of inciting the need to go.
However astronomy was also a subject taken in college and many university courses. So it would be way beyond her comprehension. Her aim was merely childish curiosity but also could benefit her...broaden her horizons so to speak.
"Oh wow! That cutie JD, Thomas Harris is narrating it. He's only ever been in night clubs. It'll be nice to see him." Minako exclaimed. I looked to her in wonder. "Minako – chan…? When have you ever been to a night club? Were all under age for that." I cautioned, a knowing smile crossing my face. "Are there some things you're not telling us?" I started to interrogate the only blonde merrily.
Always eager to hear some of Minako's more adventurous stories. She looked to me in shock, "I ah…haven't. I just know people that have. Besides you of all people are talking when it comes to under age? The things you and Mamoru – san - " I leaned over the table and slammed my hand over her mouth as Chibi Usa was in the room. Now darting her wide eyes back and forth between us.
Ignoring the Minako mouth in the room Chibi Usa went on, "Well it's out on the Delta in the middle of the Infinity Park. So I thought we could also take Hotaru – chan along." She begged of us all.
I smiled, "Happily. I know Hotaru – chan would love to get out of the house more often. This'll give you both a chance to do that." I could tell I was still rebuilding things with Chibi Usa so perhaps taking her and Hotaru tomorrow would be useful.
"We can go tomorrow." I supply.
"Arigato!" Chibi Usa looked happy, near twinkles in her eyes then she did something that took me completely off guard. She lunged and wrapped her arms around my waist and hugged me tight. I felt myself blush profusely at her sudden affection, sensing that this was her way of seeking my forgiveness. A silent but meaningful apology from her. I sighed and enjoyed the moment for what it was, holding my stubborn, loud mouth, high tempered child who even though was a pain in the ass...she had a heart of gold.
"I'd still like to know why Haruka's group is keeping such a close eye on her." Minako's voice interrupted the happy atmosphere. "Could Hotaru – chan have a special heart?" Ami suggested, "While it would be pure and innocent it's weak in strength. I can't see her being a target. Besides even if she weren't I've seen her against a daimon…her 'gifts' can hold them off temporarily." I noted to them.
It was Chibi Usa's ability to ignore anything negative pertaining to Hotaru that popped up beside Rei, "I can't wait for tomorrow now! I also assume that the trip covers the admission fees to!" She added. Like I asked earlier 'what'll it cost me.' ooiii…
"Being a mother, you do have to be the one to take care of those things. And with how you and Mamoru – san are you might wanna practice with Chibi Usa now." Minako's words had me heated up in embarrassment.
Though a brief image of me holding Chibi Usa as a few month old baby while potentially several months pregnant with the next one came to mind. I had a strong feeling that that would come to pass to regardless of any family conversations we had on how many kids to have. I thought on it for a moment before Chibi Usa in a complete role reversal somehow landed herself in my lap once again. Giving me those puppy dog eyes she always gave Mamoru.
"How sweet of a mother to do so – I could never do that!" Minako giggled. "Mama…" Chibi Usa's pretending to fawn over me like she would a 'mother' was making my role my eyes. Though deep down I was basking in the affection, even if it was only pretend.
She was only doing it so I'd say yes to paying for the fees. Though where I'd get that money was another question. "Watch it girlie, I haven't given birth to you yet." I warned, with mock laughter. "Like I said at the rate you and Mamoru – san are goi – ow!" Minako rubbed her leg. Makoto's warning pinch to the thigh, sealed her lips once again. Chibi Usa didn't need to know of such things, it was enough for the blonde to take the hint and shut up.
"It's so sweet of you to start up her education now. With her learning to be a senshi and her education she'll be a great Queen when she reigns." Ami was beaming.
Ami's words had me sighing. I was losing this conversation before it truly even began. "I will take you both tomorrow but till then we need to study so why don't you get ready and set for tomorrow. I'll only take you both but ONLY if your homework is done from all of your classes." I warned her.
"Don't forget to do yours to." She mocked, sticking her tongue out at me as she left. I lunged for her playfully, she giggled and darted away. Hopping off the veranda. Now that she had what she wanted she really had no need to be overly sweet to me.)
"Chibi Usa…" Rei started, rising to her feet and leaving the room. Chibi Usa stopped and turned back wondering what Rei wanted.
"While I understand previous misconceptions of Usagi – chan's history with bad grades but she's a lot better than what she was several months ago. Looking through one perspective isn't always the best. She deserves more credit than you've been giving her lately." Rei advised sternly. The pink haired child was stunned. Here was one of the people that made fun of her mother the most and here she was defending her.
"Gomen." She told Usagi humbly, before walking outside. She got as far as the temple stairs before muttering to herself, "What is the world coming to when baka Usagi is good at stuff and smart? She wasn't like this last time I was here." The girl left down the stairs heading home trying to figure out how to work with this new Usagi and wondering how she would change her actions around her.
Meanwhile later on that evening while Chibi Usa was dinning with the Tsukino's, that had become a somber awkward affair, Mamoru was enjoying a home cooked meal from Usagi as she tried out one of Makoto's recipes.
Haruka, Michiru and Setsuna met up outside of Mugen Academy, in the back lot that over looked the laboratory. The air was cold, laced with a foreboding that had been becoming more prominent around the educational tower. The sea starting to churn and attack the harbor banks as if a storm was now brewing, making slow and steady progress towards something utterly horrific coming in.
Haruka and Michiru were still in their school uniforms just finishing with clubs. While Setsuna was in her lavender dress and white lab coat from her work at the university. "Lately that dream of the world falling into nothing but ruins is getting stronger. It chills me to even think about it." Michiru admitted. Setsuna looked on strong, "We must find the 'messiah of light' no matter what." Haruka said sternly.
"If the 'messiah of silence' gets ahold of the 'chalice'…" She didn't even want to fathom it, "I have a feeling that Tomoe, Hotaru with her strange powers is linked to all of this. I think she might be the 'messiah of silence'." Haruka voiced. "We need to determine if she is a true threat or not." It was a cold thought. "Besides she's the only daughter to one of our suspected high ranking death buster's members." The others looked to her, "I know professor Tomoe is bad, the vibe is clear as day." But she knew without proof she couldn't attack.
"In my dreams the girl is becoming more and more clear. The weapon in her hands…is more pronounced. Very long." Michiru began, the description was enough for Setsuna and Haruka, "The scythe of silence." Haruka breathed, "The silence glaive." Michiru corrected.
"If that's the case then there's only one person I know of who has possession of that weapon of destruction." Setsuna stated, a hard gleam in her eyes.
"The 'messiah of silence' could also be the senshi of 'ruin'. Sailor Saturn. The one guarded by the planet of destruction. The last time she was even used was eons ago. She was only even meant to be awakened in a time of great destruction. When all else failed to save everything." Setsuna muttered the ending. She had heard stories of Sailor Saturn, that even as a child she possessed the strength to destroy a planet.
It was why her awakening as a senshi was only in a time of great need when the powers of evil had decimated every front line in the world. Queen Serenity in the past used up her reserves on the silver crystal to ensure the safety and security of her daughter and everyone else on the moon that fateful day. Giving them a chance at new lives. But also so Sailor Saturn wouldn't have to be awakened into her powers.
Eventually Saturn was reborn on earth along with everyone else. Queen Serenity made sure of it, "If she is then there may be nothing more we can do." Michiru stated grimly. "The world will fall to ruins regardless. I don't think that Moon has the power just yet to give rebirth to the whole planet if that is the case." her words were not helpful to anyone. She looked to Setsuna with a need to know that she was right.
"Moon…Usagi – chan won't ascend to that type of power for a while still. Truthfully I'm shocked she's even taking the incredible amount of power from the 'chalice' that she is." Setsuna admitted, to that Haruka looked startled to her.
"What's that supposed to mean?" she demanded lightly. Setsuna's cold eyes looked to her, "You feel that since she can't handle it all right now that she's not the 'messiah'. Did it ever occur to either of you two that anyone would have trouble taking on that much power with the silver crystal linked to their body? Usagi – chan is strong but like her moon mother and her moon mother before her each generation has to get strong enough to handle the ascending powers." Setsuna defended.
Haruka looked away, not wanting to believe that Setsuna could be right. That there was hope for them, "IF the senshi of ruin was reborn here in this era then we still have a chance to strike her down before it's to late." She looked to the others for confirmation. "I won't let this planet be destroyed!" they agreed, though Setsuna while in agreement wondered how this would play out at the end.
In another area of the Delta, deeply hidden under the suburban landscape sat a silent viper, a host to the most loyal source of chaos from the Tao Nebula. In a throne like room of darkness, filled to the brim with stuffed animals and toys of various kinds. The not yet fully awakened 'messiah of silence' sat upon the throne. She was seemingly in silent contemplation over what she was feeling with her awakening.
The feeling of her arrival was close, "I can feel the timing for my full awakening approaching. This body will not last much longer. I need a pure heart of energy to revive myself. So that I can usher in a new age for my master." The dark figure stated to the professor.
He nodded, his eye glass refracting the dim light like a beacon in the night.
Holding a stuffed bear and caressing it in a devilish manner she then stated, her eyes glowing an eerie crimson. "I will cover this planet in darkness. Silence will reign as it was always meant to." Her voice echoed like the restless undead. A low growling tone that made one shiver in fear. The professor smiled, "We're not mistaken as to choose that body for you as the 'messiah of silence'." He began.
"You feel that it is weakening, but this soul has sustained you far longer than any other vessel could have. You are the only one capable of bringing silence to this planet." He advised, not at all supplicating himself to her this time. His comment sounding more like a challenge then a truth to her ears.
She grinned maliciously before holding the bear as if in contemplation, "I am the only one capable of giving you everything you desire of this world. If you wish for my awakening any earlier then grant me a pure heart." She commanded, her patience running thin. He and his team had been nothing but failures.
Ripping the bear up she tossed it down to his feet, like a sacrifice. "Be of use to me before I have no patience left." The bear proof enough that she held no care of his life should he fail her. He nodded, having lost a bit of his tongue. Rushing to his lab he called Mimet to go after the next target. Before looking over to the glass globe sitting at the edge of his metal table that seemed to house something highly important. But only sparkling stars could be seen, almost as if another universe lay within.
The very next day Hotaru was heading home from school. It was a brisk afternoon, the winds had been growing for the past few days, howling through the Delta promising a storm. Hotaru hunched into the wind, holding her messenger back close to her chest so her homework didn't blow away. Her dark hair tossing wildly around her face, cheeks flushed by the cold she struggled down the street. Leaving the laughing melody of her classmates in the distance at the main gates.
Always alone...yet now she felt she wasn't.
The day itself had been rather tedious but thoughts of Chibi Usa and Usagi encouraging her came to mind and it helped her. She half wished to see both of them that day but didn't want to push her luck. Two young girls from her class were sitting on a bus bench, chatting happily but as she passed behind them they fell into hushed whispers. It made her a little sad that none of her classmates were her friends.
That they treated her with distant and mistrust. Over hearing them planning a sleep over for the weekend to finish a project only made her heartache even more.
But once she thought of Chibi Usa and Usagi she brightened up. She had begun to see Usagi as a sort of older sister, motherly figure. Which was the very same way Chibi Usa viewed her. The young woman certainly had acted towards both her and Chibi Usa in that kind, thoughtful way, though Chibi Usa protested it more often than not.
Then her name got called out, echoing in a bright cheerful way that made her smile. She looked up then and saw Chibi Usa waving to her a few yards away down the street, along with Usagi and her friends. Each one was still dressed in their school fuku's which meant they had rushed over to the reclamation area right after school.
"Chibi Usa – chan! Were you waiting for me?" she asked, not wanting to jump to conclusions.
"Hai. I wanted to take you to the new planetarium opening." She had a pleading look in her eyes, hoping that Hotaru would say yes, "I would have to ask papa." She protested slightly. Chibi Usa faltered, "I'm sure your father would be fine with you going to the planetarium. It's an educational experience. And we'll be there. We can even walk you home and explain it to your father if you'd like." Usagi offered.
"Besides if you continually ask your father for such tedious things he won't see you as a maturing young lady. It's not as if you're staying out all night. Just for an extra hour or two." Minako assured her.
"So if were not bothering you we can go now." Ami added on.
Hotaru looked a little shocked. Never having been asked if someone else were bothering her. It warmed her heart to be asked that. "Alright. Let's go." Hotaru agreed. Walking with them she couldn't help but smile happily at Chibi Usa as she unconsciously took Usagi's hand. Chibi Usa noted the closeness her friend felt to Usagi, but this time she was not jealous. This time she wasn't going to feel left out, she timidly clasped Usagi's other hand.
Avoiding Usagi's startled look, casting her head to the side as if drawn to something curious upon the pavement. Suddenly nervous that she might reject her affection. Instead the embodiment of her mother in this time frame, squeezed her hand back reassuringly. Chibi Usa released a held breath and smiled happily. All was well, at least for now between them. It would take time to heal the wounds made recently but they would heal.
Usagi smiled at the warmth, and familiarity she felt from Hotaru. There was no way Haruka was right about her being evil or bad. Perhaps something within her was but as she was, she wasn't a bad person. Chibi Usa also was trying to connect, trying to repair her poor behavior with small sweet intentions. Usagi saw it was a step in the right direction...finally.
(The sun was setting when we arrived at the planetarium, the sky darkening into the deeper colors of twilight. The barest twinkle of the stars were starting to appear high above us. Taking to the cement path built into the front lawn, the little girls let go of my hand deciding to hold each other's instead. Our conversation became naturally hushed as we each craned our heads back to navigate the coming stars.
I couldn't help but gaze upward at the heaven's in awe, thousands of years ago that used to be my home. The realization that my bloodline was that of the gods was extremely humbling, and somewhat terrifying too. I liked to think I was just an ordinary girl sometimes when in fact I was far from it. Thankfully I didn't have to do this alone, I had my friends and my Mamo - chan to help carry this burden of defending the earth.
The front lawn was landscaped with cement box gardens and spruce saplings. Beautiful to look at, not so wonderful to run into when you're busy gawking at the stars...
"Usagi!" Raye cried in alarm, giving me just enough warning to turn my head in confusion, before I struck a cement box. It was just high enough to clip my knees, toppling me headfirst over the side. Leaving my sprawled on my face over the other side, ass in the air with the wind blowing nicely up my school skirt. I was mortified...blushing like a stop light and wanting fate to just strike me down right then and there.
"Usagi - chan." Chibi Usa scrambled around the cement divider and crouched before me with a pained expression on her face.
"Are you alright?" she asked, smirking slightly and trying valiantly not to snicker as Hotaru hovered nearby, looking very concerned.
"My body, yes...my pride...not so much." I moaned, untangling myself to a kneeling position on the path. Quickly scanning the milling crowds moving towards the Planetarium to see how embarrassed I should really feel. Thankfully no one noticed my klutz attack, but my knees were now scrapped up pretty good. I sat waiting for Chibi Usa to come up with some mean quip, wanting her to smite me verbally and get it over with.
"Don't feel bad, Onee-chan." She stated instead, patting my hot cheek. "I don't think anyone noticed your swan dive." She finished playfully.
"I'd give it a 5 out of 10." Makoto voiced merrily.
"Oh, how generous." Rei laughed.
"How about an 8 out of 10, it's wasn't graceful but it had lots of style." Minako giggled.
I glared up at them, then gave them a sad pout. I know they were just razzing me, trying to lighten the awkward moment. "You all make it sound like klutzing out some kind of Olympic sport." I commented.
Ami being my only true friend helped me up. I smiled at her gratefully.
"Only to you." Ami smiled sweetly, sending her zinger comment with an endearing sparkle in her blue eyes.
"Et tu, Ami - chan?" I whined.
"Really, guys. I don't klutz out that often." I relented, needing to state to myself along to the rest of them to heal my wounded pride.
"Yeah, but when you do now...they are spectacular!" Makoto laughed loudly.
"Maybe we should hold your hands again...just to be save." Hotaru advised, taking up my hand while Chibi Usa clasped the other. The lonely little girl was beaming now, at being a part of the friendly banter between us. She was one of us now, a member of our kinship and she was blossoming.
I rolled my eyes as the little girls hauled my forward, suddenly feeling like some old blind lady being lead around.
We moved quietly towards the massive dome of glass in the distance. It dwarfed the forest of trees that surrounded it. Built deep within the large park at the outskirts of the reclamation area as it overlooked the bay and provided an unhindered view of the sky. When we reached the front steps, a huge crowd had already filed into the vestibule. Both Chibi Usa and Hotaru crowded closer to me, but being barely five foot I provided very poor protection upon entering the compression of bodies.
Thankfully, Makoto was used to providing crowd control for her shorter friends. She and Rei kept the crowds at bay, as we moved with the herd into the brightly lit lobby. That reminded me faintly of a movie theatre. With glossy framed posters of the planets along the curving white walls and a Grande glass ticket booth along one side. We lined up and got our tickets. Then filed away towards the Star Theatre, moving through another set of double glass doors.
A huge amphitheater of red leather seats awaited us, we walked down the stairs to the front row, sitting contentedly and now becoming very excited.)
With Hotaru sitting between Usagi and Chibi Usa, the four other girls flanks just behind them in the row above.
Just in front was the giant open dome of the Planetarium, with dais build just before it. A large square glass case sat on the stage with a fine, stylish red haired man sitting before the mixing board for the show. He wore large round glasses that made him look boyishly cute, in tan dress pants with a white button down untucked and a white and blue striped sweater vest over top. He looked preppy and smart and so very handsome.
(The lights dimmed, as soft, echoing melodies filled the theatre. We held our breath as the curved roof above us darkened and reformed to that of the endless night sky. The DJ started to rattle off the history behind the constellations, mesmerizing the audience with his smooth capturing voice. The endless star scape of the holographic show shimmered over our heads, it was gorgeous and awe inspiring.
The stars twinkled majestically within the velvet black back drop, it made me think that was what eternity looked like. His voice was deep and soulful, spinning the tales of the constellations with a sad, yet profound tone.)
However, there was also Mimet, lurking in the shadows at the back of the theatre. Dressed undercover in her yellow trench coat and red scarf around her head. Looking as star struck as anything at the DJ. Her eyes shimmering with delusional stars in them. It didn't go unnoticed by Michiru or Haruka who had discovered whom her next target was, they stood on the far side of the theatre watching her with determined eyes.
Still dressed in their school uniforms identical to Hotaru's. They had made fast time to the planetarium when they found out who her target was. "She isn't really that good at blending in." Haruka noted, "Obviously not one of the brightest stars in the galaxy." Michiru agreed then looked out to see Usagi's group with Hotaru, "And Usagi – chan's group is here with her." Both looked over in watch of the innocent dark haired girl, craning her head back in wonder at the galaxy stretching out over her head.
"This might be the best timing ever. To see what she is capable of doing. I want Usagi – chan's group to be forced to know how evil that girl potentially is. Maybe then they'll get out of our way." Haruka smiled. Michiru nodded in agreement, "Hopefully."
To be continued.