Luna P walks out, and waves, 'Luna P here, I have to warn you. In here, I added a little something that should have been put in chapter one but as you can tell it's a little late for that. Sorry this took so long to get out, but I was a little sad, that chapter fourteen didn't do so well. But I wont let that get me down, because I like this plot, and I like this story.
Yes my grammar and spelling sucks, but no one's perfect. I also wanted say thank you for all of you who have reviewed for this story. Especially Firefly Princess, who had reviewed for every chapter so far, thank you so much! Well gotta go bye bye!' Turns, and leaves, after waving to everyone again.
Chapter fifteen- 'Fair or Fare'
The limo pulled up in front of the gate to the fair. The kids were bustling with eagerness, not wanting to wait to go on ride.
Duo turned in his seat, to look at the kids in the back. They were about ready to jump out, and race to the line, before it got too long. "Okay gang, this is it. Here's your test, to show what good kids you are. Now lets go have fun."
Usagi couldn't help but giggle, at the front door, and the back door swung open, and the kids leaped out.
She shook her head, and climbed out. She leaned back down. "Bye Peagan. I'll call, when we want to come home alright?" He nodded, and patted her hand. "Your mother was such a wonderful person Usagi. And everyday, you're growing up more like her. Don't ever change." Usagi nodded, and kissed his cheek. "You're a sweet man Peagan. Take care."
She pulled out, and waved briskly, before she shut the door. The limo pulled out, and headed for the highway.
"Miss Usagi chan!!!" Usagi looked over, to see Sabaku." Usagi nodded, and walked towards the small little child. "Where is everyone Saba chan?" The little girl giggled, and pointed to the line for tickets.
Usagi looked up, and couldn't help but burst out laughing. Duo had beaten all the kids to the line, and was doing a victory dance, while the kids just grumbled.
"Lets go join them." The little girl nodded, and took Usagi's hand. She tugged Usagi along, helping her quicken her pace to the line. By the time they made it, Duo was up, and was buying the bracelets.
Usagi walked up to him, leaving Sabaku with the kids. "Where'd you get all this money?" She looked at all the fresh crisp twenty-dollar bills. Duo grinned, "Quatre of course." "How much is there?" Duo slapped on a goofy grin, "About a grand I think." Usagi gasped, "Duo, that's Quattre's money!!"
Duo nodded, "Yea, and can you believe the guy gave it to me? He's such a cool dude. And little too nice at times, but man, I love him." Duo nodded to the man, when he gave him the bracelets. "Thanks man." He walked from the booth, and the kids followed him. Usagi sighed, and stood behind the kids, standing next to Sairensu.
Duo handed out the bracelets to all the kids, and put them on all of them. He then put on his own, and gave the last one to Usagi. "Alright, so where do we want to go first?"
Usagi looked around, "Maybe we should split up into threes. Duo, you take three kids, I'll take three, and Chibi Usa, you can take the last two. How does that sound?"
Duo frowned slightly, "I got a better idea." Usagi raised a single eyebrow, "You do?" Duo glared at her, "Yea, I do. If your 6 and up, stand over there." Duo pointed near a bench.
Ryuujin, and Junsei stood next to each other, and where the first ones to the bench. Sairensu was next, followed by Chibi Usa. Ikazuchi, and Koorimizu were the last to join the group near the bench. Usagi shrugged, and walked over to the group.
Duo grinned. "Alright from that group, pick a person, a partner."
Ryuujin, and Junsei broke off from the large group. Ikazuchi and Koorimizu also broke off from the group. Duo stated, "Usagi, you'll be my partner." Usagi crossed her arms, "Maybe I don't want to. Maybe I want to be Sairensu's partner."
Duo frowned, and looked at Sairensu, and waited for the boy to reply.
Sairensu blushed, and looked at Usagi from the corner of his eyes. Usagi smiled, "Then it's settled. Chibi chan, you can be Duo's partner." Usagi linked arms with Sairensu, and took hold of his hand.
Duo sighed, "Alright, but then you take with you Sabaku. I'll take Okibi. Zuchi, take Suteki alright." The boy nodded, and took Suteki's hand in his. Koorimizu took the small boys other hand.
Sabaku leaped into Usagi's arms, and hugged her tightly. Sairensu was still flushed, and held his gaze to the floor. Usagi waved to the two groups, and stated eagerly, "Well we're going this way. Come on Sairensu!" She started towards the Farris wheel. She went into the line, and asked, "So which rides do we want to go on first?" Sabaku smiled, "Roller coaster."
Usagi looked at the little girl, "The roller coaster, alright, we'll go on that next. Where is it?" Sabaku pointed to the ride, that went 40 feet into the air, with twists turns, and loops. Usagi paled at the sight of it. "That?"
"Ticket!" Usagi jerked her gaze to the man operating the ride. She held up her wrist, and her nodded. Usagi walked past the gate with Sairensu right behind her. They were led to on of the carts, and locked into the seat.
Sabaku held onto the bar in front of her, "Ride!!! Ride!!!" Sairensu crossed his arms over his chest, and leaned back. Usagi held onto the bar, and leaned over, as the ride started. "Wow! You can see part of the Cinq kingdom. Sairensu, isn't this great???" She turned her head, her gaze falling on him. He just stared back at her. it took a few seconds, but he finally nodded. The Farris wheel rotated around, never stopping, but moving with great speed. Usagi threw up her hands, and squealed with delight.
Sabaku's hair flew up around her face, and her face lit up with a bright smile. She threw up her hands and burst out into a fit of giggles.
Sairensu stared at her, his mind flying through every mental thought that floated into his brain. 'Maybe he is right?'
?????
Duo looked at Chibi Usa then at Okibi. Chibi Usa was watching all the people wandering around the grounds. Okibi was holding Chibi Usa's hand tightly in hers. Okibi looked up at Chibi Usa, and tugged her arm in a jerking manner. "Can we go on a ride now Usa chan?"
Chibi Usa looked down at Okibi, and nodded, "Hai Okibi chan we can. Which one would you like to go on?"
Okibi tugged her hand out of Chibi Usa's, and glanced around. Her bright eyes fleetingly bounced around from one to the other. "That one!" Chibi Usa looked up, to the ride Okibi pointed at with enthusiasm. The Merry-Go-Round.
Duo looked at the ride, and gapped. "No way, I am not going on that ride! You can't make me!!!!" Chibi Usa, and Okibi both look at Duo impishly.
?????
They walked through the prongs of games slowly leisurely. They did not link hands, or even come into contact with one or the other. They just walked, as if they didn't know each other, but still they walked at the same pace, slow and easy. They were a relaxed duo, without a care in the world at what happened around them.
The tallest lightly scanned the heads of the people, running from game to game.
The shorter one glanced from one face to the other, studying the groups, as they went on rides, or bought food.
The tall one, reached up, and all the women watching awed, and froze, their heart swelling in their eyes. He flicked his hair off his shoulder, and women fell over in love with his beauty. He could only smirk with satisfaction. Built like a football player, dressed like an elegant business going casual, and the looks of a god, described the man that walked calmly through the crowded fairgrounds.
His partner, a head shorter than him, but just as lovely, had the brains of a genius. He was short, but handsome, with the looks of a model, the built of a runner, and dressed just as elegantly casual as the taller guy. While the taller man wore contacts, that second didn't hide that fact that he wore glasses. But the small rimmed bifocals gave him more of an appeal to women he passed.
He rubbed the back of his neck, casually tugging a loose strand of curled hair behind his ear, making women swoon with lust. He rolled his eyes, and looked up at his partner, "So my Neanderthal giant, see anything over the prong of heads?"
The taller one looked down, and smirked, "No I don't Doctor Z..." he frowned, looking at a familiar head. Even though it was the back of it, he could still recognize the person behind the mass of thick long hair. "Something wrong?"
He narrowed his eyes, "Yes, over there, near the Farris Wheel. Standing in line near the front. He's looking up at a certain cart."
His partner sighed, and muttered something under his breath. He glanced at the Farris wheel behind the glasses, his dark eyes roaming over the heads. A person moved into his view, but he couldn't get the tingle out of his stomach. 'It can't be...'
He searched over the heads that blocked his view, even though he was 6'1. Finally the balding man ticked him off enough that he marched forward, and pushed passed him. He may have ticked off the 60-year-old grandpa, and upset the child in his arms, but he didn't give a damn at the moment. He searched the line again, but the Farris wheel had loaded its last group, and was starting to go again. And the man he thought he had seen was gone.
He cursed under his breath, but his partner took his side. "Well?" "I didn't get the chance dammit."
The taller one looked at his partner, "But does that matter, if you saw him or not? You know don't you, just like I do?" The shorter man cursed darkly, "Yes dammit. Why is he here? I thought he died!"
The taller man touched his partner's arm, "we all did, and look what happened to us, to her. It was only a matter of time before they all." The shorter one shook the hand off, "I know Kunzite! But I didn't do all this work, just to have that playboy ruin it all. And I wont let the others ruin it either." Kunzite chuckled, his straight white hair falling into his light blue eyes. "Work? What work? We haven't done anything but watched Zoi. And that's all we can do." "I don't wan that to be all we can do! Its about time, we took this into our own hands for once."
Kunzite smirked, "Awe, it's about time my friend. Come; let's visit an old friend. Then we'll figure out why he is here."
The shorter man nodded, "Fine." With that said, he followed his partner out, his anger slowly depleting from within, and out into the air of laughter, happiness and love.
?????
He sat alone in his room. His back rested against the headboard to his bed, his head bowed low. His eyes glared firmly at his hands that rested in his lap. He had finally found the time to think alone without interruptions, but as he sat alone, he couldn't concentrate.
His room was plagued with silence, the curtains drawn, and shadows played over his features. The air was cool, natural, with the fall air outside his window, outside and beyond the walls that locked him into this room. A room of solitude, of loneness, and damness.
He had never had anything more than that, except for one time, when a desperate man asked for his help.
The man had been one of science, a general of an organization that had gone against his code. Against what he believed in. He had denied helping, refused, and threaten to kill the scientist, the general, and the father to a child.
He had looked into the man's eyes, and saw determination, and need so grate in his eyes, that it burned him. And when he looked away, he saw the tomb. It was a holding place, where a child had grown up her whole life in. He had almost refused again, but thinking of that five year old, growing up inside a tank, never seeing the light day, the dark night, the moon, the stars, not even breath. She would have died in that tank, without even the chance to live.
So he had let the scientist, take his blood, to examine him, hook him up to the tank, to help stable her for the procedure. He had felt her heart, heard her breath, but couldn't see her face, or who she was. But it felt right, lying there near the tank, as the man took so much of his blood, that it made him dizzy. But it was a good kind, he had felt proud, and happy, that he had been able for once in his life, he saved an innocent.
But since that mission to infiltrate the base, gather information, and destroy the evidence he had been there, he began to dream. Never in his life, did her ever such a vivid dream, not even as a child, or growing up. The dream held so much emotion, that it was over whelming. He found it hard to breath.
The screams, were the most vivid of the dream, and even now, he could still hear them. In the room, surrounded by darkness, the screams of pain, fear, and desolation, echoed into his ears, plaguing his mind, clouding his thoughts. They tore at his sore, ripped at his heart, and burst his eardrums. The sound of her screams held so much, that it hurt, that he couldn't help her. Over and over, her watched her from high above, as she fought to get away. He could only stand, and watch as the darkness tore her limb by limb, slowly killing her, only leaving the outer shell. He had met her eyes countless of times, and saw the recognition, the fear, the passion, and the misery trapped in her dark depth.
Cursing, he climbed off the bed, and slowly walked across the room, to the small square bathroom. He leaned against the counter, and gripped the edges tightly. The dreams ran through his mind, even though he could remember them well enough to put them to words, he could still see her, and the images of her. She was alone, like him, and hiding the pain, like he did.
When the dream had first come, he thought she was his inner child. He hadn't told a soul, but believed it. But since the night he arrived, he would wake up with a start in bed, but he could still hear her cries. But they were real, and he had been curious enough, to see whom, but didn't dare to leave his room. His eyes would be streaked with tears, his face flush, sweat dripping from his forehead. His clothes ratted around his body, the sheets tossed to the floor, the pillow thrown across the room. The dream distracted him, day and night, plaguing him with thoughts he wished he never had to face.
Who was the girl in his dreams? And why did she always beg him for help, when he could barely help himself?
He looked up into the mirror, and scowled. Another long day, and night still had yet to come. He hadn't had a peaceful night sleep since they began. Turning away from the mirror, he walked back into the room. He plopped down on the messy bed, and pulled out file from the pillowcase covering his pillow. He opened it, and searched through the contents.
Inside was a photo of a young woman, in her late twenties. She was very beautiful, with an oval face, and very classical. Her hair was blond, and very long spilling down her back in loose waves. No bangs, to cover her small forehead, just a flow dark golden thick silk. Her azure, blue eyes wide, heavy lidded and thickly lashed, were bright and full of life. Her nose was perfectly short and straight. Her lips red with paint lush and full, forming into a pout, as she face an invisible character in front of her, holding the camera he could only assume. Her eyebrows were full and thick, but light. Her body was thin, but not overly so, and held curves. She had been dressed in a white shirt, and faded hip huggers, and a belt. A jean jacket draped over her shoulder. Her skin was fair and lightly tan.
He studied the picture, before turning it over. It had been taken the day before she had been emitted into the hospital in Japan. It had been her university; she had been 25 and married for six years with her brother's best friend. She had a daughter. The only picture he had of the girl, was a baby picture.
And from what the picture show, he couldn't match her to anyone he knew. The scientist, husband and father, wasn't the type you'd think would end up with Miss Universe. He was tall lengthy, with dark brown hair, nicely cut, and glasses to cover the bourbon brown eyes. He had the body of a runner, long legs and arms, big feet and hands. He was dressed in his lab coat, holding his newborn child in his arm, sitting next to the tired, but loving wife.
The last picture he had, was one of the late wife of Kenji Tsukino, Ikuko Tsukino. She had passed away in her hospital bed, and had died in front of her five-year-old child, who had disappeared ever since.
And then, he was sent on a mission, to gather information, on an attack on the Cinq Kingdom. He had run into Kenji Tsukino, who was intent on killing Relena Peacecraft. And he had saved the old man's child, who had been in an incubator of ten years. Slowly things began to fit together, but something was still missing.
Shaking his head, he tossed the folder aside on the bed, and laid back. He glanced at the clock. Duo had promised to bring the girl back by ten. He frowned; it was only eleven in the morning. He closed his eyes, to relax his mind, but what he didn't expect to fall into a deep sleep.
?????
The Farris wheel had long been over, and Usagi had sent Sairensu and Sabaku out to get cotton candy with the left over money Usagi had from her shopping spree the other day.
She had seen Chibi Usa, and Okibi from the corner of her eyes, and interested followed close behind. What she found was the cutest sight ever. Okibi was sitting lady like on a black stallion. The head had been thrown back, the reins whipping the air. The black mane swaying in an imaginable breeze. The saddle was dark bourbon brown, with red trim, and gold buttons for decoration.
Duo sat beside Okibi, on another black horse similar to the one she rode. His was more relaxed, the head down, as if ready to race it competitor. The tail had been whipped out behind it flowing in the air.
Duo sat on the leather saddle; his arms crossed over his chest, and he was frowning.
Usagi grinned, and raced towards them. The leaned over the gate, and waved at them. "Hey Duo chan!" He looked up, at the sound of his name. His dark eyes landed on the blond, and he instantly grinned. Suddenly the Merry-Go-Round jerked, nearly throwing Duos off the horse. He gripped the pole in front of him, as the ride began. Music surrounded them, and filled the air, with its pathetic tunes.
Usagi sighed, and turned around she glanced around the fair grounds, searched for Sairensu, and Sabaku. She spotted the two near the bouncing castle. Sabaku, was inside flying around, and hitting the walls. she was having a grand time, with Sairensu watching her. "Usagi!" Usagi turned to see Okibi bouncing around, and full of giggles. She broke out in a grin, and clapped her hands together. "Go Okibi chan!!!"
Something brushed up against her, making her uncomfortable. She straightened up, and turned around. "I'm sorry Miss. Someone bumped into me." Usagi absently nodded, as she stared into bourbon brown eyes, and thick chestnut brown hair, that fell in waves loosely down his back, reaching to his waist. He was dressed elegantly, in black slacks, and a sleek green dress shirt, that clung to his well-developed chest. His body reminded her of a football player, well built, and strong looking with powerful arms and legs.
He flashed her a grin, causing her insides to flop inside her. "It's alright, you just startled me...that's all." He nodded, and took he hand, "Again I'm sorry Miss. My name is Nephrite." Usagi smiled, and shook his hand, "Usagi." He stilled her hand, and brought it to his lips, and kissed her knuckles.
Usagi stared at him wide eyed with embarrassment, "Wha...What are you doing?" He grinned up at her, "Showing respect to a lovely lady."
"Hey leave her alone!"
Sairensu burst through between them, and kept Usagi behind him. Usagi blinked in surprise, and stared down at Sairensu as if he'd grown another head. He had spoken, but his voice was so cold. She had heard that voice before, from somewhere.
He had taken a defensive stance, one that could easily, and swiftly slide into a fighting stance if needed. His eyes held hatred to the man, who had touched Usagi.
Suddenly Kojou, and Junsei appeared next to him. They held the same pose, both their eyes glaring at the taller and older man, who most likely could out weigh them, and beat them up easily.
The man frowned slightly at them, but looked up at Usagi. "Looks like you have a little fan club here miss Usagi." Usagi blinked, and looked at him. "Uh..." She looked down at the three heads that held her back from the man who had kissed her hand. Who had made her feel embarrassed, and slightly uncomfortable.
She shook her head, "Where's Saba chan?" Usagi whirled around, her eyes flying through the crowd. "Sairensu, how could you just..."
"Usagi!" The girl came flying out of the crowd, and jumped into her arms. "I miss you." Usagi hugged the girl tightly in her arms, and blinked back the threatening tears. "Saba chan, you made me worried. I thought you were gone." The little girl shook her head, "No, Sairensu took me out of the bouncy ride. He told me you were in twouble."
The little girl bit her lip, and looked at the man behind Usagi. He was frowning at all the kids, and looked ready to leave. "You look like Zuchi!" He scowled slightly, and paid her now heed. "Well I better go. It was nice meeting you Miss Usagi." With that, he left with a wave of his hand. Usagi turned around, and looked at Sabaku's face.
Duo, and Okibi came up to them. "Who was that Usagi?" Usagi glanced at him, "he said his name was Nephrite." Duo nodded, and looked at Sabaku. She was biting her lower lip nervously.
In fact, all the kids' demeanor had changed since he introduced Usagi to them. Now he just had to figure out, if it was for the better.
?????
The drive home was a long one. After dropping off the kids, and tucking them into the bed at the orphanage, the clock had already struck midnight.
Usagi had fallen asleep in the back seat, while Duo sat up front with Peagan, and talked with the older man about Usagi's past. From the old man, he learned nothing more than what Usagi had told him.
When the limo pulled to a stop, in front of the Winner Mansion, Usagi's eyes, had already snapped open, and she was sitting up before Duo got to her door. She slid out tiredly, stretching her arms over her head. Without Duo's help, she trudged up the stairs slowly, and slipped inside the mansion. Duo was still out at the car, trying to collect all the prizes he had won in the games. He had spent $50 on game, and about $110 for the bracelets.
Usagi left the door open behind her, and made her way up the flight of stairs. She swayed on her feet, and wondered if it was the days events, that made her nauseated, and slightly light headed. Her stomach seemed to flop inside her, and roll around uncomfortable. She stopped halfway up the stairs, and looked up.
Her vision swam before her eyes, and all at once the ground tilted, and she felt as if she was going to fall. She gripped the railing, hoping it was just the hotdog she had, before going on the tilt-o-whirl, or the cotton candy before going on the graviton. Or maybe the chocolate cream pie, from the eating contest she had stolen, instead of racing against everyone else, and enjoyed it slowly and savored every bite, before Junsei talked her into going on the Star Trooper, that had seemed a little to fast, and open air for her.
She held onto the post, and slid down onto her butt, till she was sitting on the staircase. She could barely breath, and her lungs felt like they would burst open, if she inhaled too deep. Her lungs burned, begging for air, but each time she tried, they ached.
She gagged, coughing in fits. Her knuckles turned white, as she gripped the handrail tightly, like a lifeline. "Usagi?" a face appeared in front of her. The same face that was there to give her strength, the night the monster came. The night the man came to kill her, but only ended up being killed. He didn't need to say anything, or doing anything, but be there to give her strength. But now, her body rejected anything his presence gave her. "I...I can't breathe." She let the railing go, even though it meant throwing away her chance to live, and fell against him, before she could fall. She held onto him, turning him into the lifeline, the rail had once been.
Her nails dug into his shoulders, and she buried her face into his shoulder, trying to breath. "Usagi!" Duo's voice sounded frantic, and she heard all the stuff toys he had won her fall to the floor. She was lifted up, and held like a child in a warm embrace. It gave her nothing but strength. No compassion, no sympathy, no love, just the feeling of being there for her when she needed it most. "Get the doctor Duo. she needs help."
He carried her up the rest of the stairs, and to her new room Quatre had given her that afternoon.
Darkness clawed at the corners of her mind, and sleep seemed to fill her body, before she could block it out. She gave out a good fight, but had no choice but to succumb to it, and her eyes fell heavy, and she let them fall under the weight.
He laid her down on the bed, and pulled away. He stared at her, and wondered what kind of dreams she had, and wondered if they were filled with sweets, and love, and joy. But as she watched her face, and saw how pale it went, as if someone had opened a floodgate for her blood. All the color, the fever, and blood seemed to rush out of her face. Her head was thrown to the side, and she mumbled in her sleep.
His eyes narrowed slightly, but the door to the room opened, and the doctor came in, with Quatre, Trowa, Wufei, Duo and Relena.
He was pushed to the side, and he watched from the doorway, as the doctor diagnosed her with the flu. After subscribing antibiotics, the doctor left in a huff. Quatre left with the words of fixing breakfast for her. Trowa mention nothing, but left, but sill flashed a worried look at the blond lying pale and drawn on the bed. Wufei muttered how weak the girl had been for letting a virus get to her, and left without another word. Duo just looked at him, his eyes filled with worry.
"Is she going to be alright?"
He shrugged, he was a doctor, but the doctor had said it was just the flu. "She had looked alright at the fair. Why so sudden, don't you wake up with a cold first? It just doesn't hit you all of a sudden right? Look at her face, it's so pale..."
Relena touched Duo's shoulder, "She'll be alright Duo chan. My itoko is a strong girl, she wont let this virus get to her I know it. Come on lets get some sleep. We'll visit her in the morning." Duo glanced at Relena, and nodded slowly, and let the girl lead him out of the room.
He was left alone with the girl, but not for long. He gave her one glance, before slipping out of the room and shutting the door. He had done what was needed at the time. He had been the sensible one there, and had given the orders. There was nothing he could do now, nothing he could do, could save her from her dreams.
Yes my grammar and spelling sucks, but no one's perfect. I also wanted say thank you for all of you who have reviewed for this story. Especially Firefly Princess, who had reviewed for every chapter so far, thank you so much! Well gotta go bye bye!' Turns, and leaves, after waving to everyone again.
Chapter fifteen- 'Fair or Fare'
The limo pulled up in front of the gate to the fair. The kids were bustling with eagerness, not wanting to wait to go on ride.
Duo turned in his seat, to look at the kids in the back. They were about ready to jump out, and race to the line, before it got too long. "Okay gang, this is it. Here's your test, to show what good kids you are. Now lets go have fun."
Usagi couldn't help but giggle, at the front door, and the back door swung open, and the kids leaped out.
She shook her head, and climbed out. She leaned back down. "Bye Peagan. I'll call, when we want to come home alright?" He nodded, and patted her hand. "Your mother was such a wonderful person Usagi. And everyday, you're growing up more like her. Don't ever change." Usagi nodded, and kissed his cheek. "You're a sweet man Peagan. Take care."
She pulled out, and waved briskly, before she shut the door. The limo pulled out, and headed for the highway.
"Miss Usagi chan!!!" Usagi looked over, to see Sabaku." Usagi nodded, and walked towards the small little child. "Where is everyone Saba chan?" The little girl giggled, and pointed to the line for tickets.
Usagi looked up, and couldn't help but burst out laughing. Duo had beaten all the kids to the line, and was doing a victory dance, while the kids just grumbled.
"Lets go join them." The little girl nodded, and took Usagi's hand. She tugged Usagi along, helping her quicken her pace to the line. By the time they made it, Duo was up, and was buying the bracelets.
Usagi walked up to him, leaving Sabaku with the kids. "Where'd you get all this money?" She looked at all the fresh crisp twenty-dollar bills. Duo grinned, "Quatre of course." "How much is there?" Duo slapped on a goofy grin, "About a grand I think." Usagi gasped, "Duo, that's Quattre's money!!"
Duo nodded, "Yea, and can you believe the guy gave it to me? He's such a cool dude. And little too nice at times, but man, I love him." Duo nodded to the man, when he gave him the bracelets. "Thanks man." He walked from the booth, and the kids followed him. Usagi sighed, and stood behind the kids, standing next to Sairensu.
Duo handed out the bracelets to all the kids, and put them on all of them. He then put on his own, and gave the last one to Usagi. "Alright, so where do we want to go first?"
Usagi looked around, "Maybe we should split up into threes. Duo, you take three kids, I'll take three, and Chibi Usa, you can take the last two. How does that sound?"
Duo frowned slightly, "I got a better idea." Usagi raised a single eyebrow, "You do?" Duo glared at her, "Yea, I do. If your 6 and up, stand over there." Duo pointed near a bench.
Ryuujin, and Junsei stood next to each other, and where the first ones to the bench. Sairensu was next, followed by Chibi Usa. Ikazuchi, and Koorimizu were the last to join the group near the bench. Usagi shrugged, and walked over to the group.
Duo grinned. "Alright from that group, pick a person, a partner."
Ryuujin, and Junsei broke off from the large group. Ikazuchi and Koorimizu also broke off from the group. Duo stated, "Usagi, you'll be my partner." Usagi crossed her arms, "Maybe I don't want to. Maybe I want to be Sairensu's partner."
Duo frowned, and looked at Sairensu, and waited for the boy to reply.
Sairensu blushed, and looked at Usagi from the corner of his eyes. Usagi smiled, "Then it's settled. Chibi chan, you can be Duo's partner." Usagi linked arms with Sairensu, and took hold of his hand.
Duo sighed, "Alright, but then you take with you Sabaku. I'll take Okibi. Zuchi, take Suteki alright." The boy nodded, and took Suteki's hand in his. Koorimizu took the small boys other hand.
Sabaku leaped into Usagi's arms, and hugged her tightly. Sairensu was still flushed, and held his gaze to the floor. Usagi waved to the two groups, and stated eagerly, "Well we're going this way. Come on Sairensu!" She started towards the Farris wheel. She went into the line, and asked, "So which rides do we want to go on first?" Sabaku smiled, "Roller coaster."
Usagi looked at the little girl, "The roller coaster, alright, we'll go on that next. Where is it?" Sabaku pointed to the ride, that went 40 feet into the air, with twists turns, and loops. Usagi paled at the sight of it. "That?"
"Ticket!" Usagi jerked her gaze to the man operating the ride. She held up her wrist, and her nodded. Usagi walked past the gate with Sairensu right behind her. They were led to on of the carts, and locked into the seat.
Sabaku held onto the bar in front of her, "Ride!!! Ride!!!" Sairensu crossed his arms over his chest, and leaned back. Usagi held onto the bar, and leaned over, as the ride started. "Wow! You can see part of the Cinq kingdom. Sairensu, isn't this great???" She turned her head, her gaze falling on him. He just stared back at her. it took a few seconds, but he finally nodded. The Farris wheel rotated around, never stopping, but moving with great speed. Usagi threw up her hands, and squealed with delight.
Sabaku's hair flew up around her face, and her face lit up with a bright smile. She threw up her hands and burst out into a fit of giggles.
Sairensu stared at her, his mind flying through every mental thought that floated into his brain. 'Maybe he is right?'
?????
Duo looked at Chibi Usa then at Okibi. Chibi Usa was watching all the people wandering around the grounds. Okibi was holding Chibi Usa's hand tightly in hers. Okibi looked up at Chibi Usa, and tugged her arm in a jerking manner. "Can we go on a ride now Usa chan?"
Chibi Usa looked down at Okibi, and nodded, "Hai Okibi chan we can. Which one would you like to go on?"
Okibi tugged her hand out of Chibi Usa's, and glanced around. Her bright eyes fleetingly bounced around from one to the other. "That one!" Chibi Usa looked up, to the ride Okibi pointed at with enthusiasm. The Merry-Go-Round.
Duo looked at the ride, and gapped. "No way, I am not going on that ride! You can't make me!!!!" Chibi Usa, and Okibi both look at Duo impishly.
?????
They walked through the prongs of games slowly leisurely. They did not link hands, or even come into contact with one or the other. They just walked, as if they didn't know each other, but still they walked at the same pace, slow and easy. They were a relaxed duo, without a care in the world at what happened around them.
The tallest lightly scanned the heads of the people, running from game to game.
The shorter one glanced from one face to the other, studying the groups, as they went on rides, or bought food.
The tall one, reached up, and all the women watching awed, and froze, their heart swelling in their eyes. He flicked his hair off his shoulder, and women fell over in love with his beauty. He could only smirk with satisfaction. Built like a football player, dressed like an elegant business going casual, and the looks of a god, described the man that walked calmly through the crowded fairgrounds.
His partner, a head shorter than him, but just as lovely, had the brains of a genius. He was short, but handsome, with the looks of a model, the built of a runner, and dressed just as elegantly casual as the taller guy. While the taller man wore contacts, that second didn't hide that fact that he wore glasses. But the small rimmed bifocals gave him more of an appeal to women he passed.
He rubbed the back of his neck, casually tugging a loose strand of curled hair behind his ear, making women swoon with lust. He rolled his eyes, and looked up at his partner, "So my Neanderthal giant, see anything over the prong of heads?"
The taller one looked down, and smirked, "No I don't Doctor Z..." he frowned, looking at a familiar head. Even though it was the back of it, he could still recognize the person behind the mass of thick long hair. "Something wrong?"
He narrowed his eyes, "Yes, over there, near the Farris Wheel. Standing in line near the front. He's looking up at a certain cart."
His partner sighed, and muttered something under his breath. He glanced at the Farris wheel behind the glasses, his dark eyes roaming over the heads. A person moved into his view, but he couldn't get the tingle out of his stomach. 'It can't be...'
He searched over the heads that blocked his view, even though he was 6'1. Finally the balding man ticked him off enough that he marched forward, and pushed passed him. He may have ticked off the 60-year-old grandpa, and upset the child in his arms, but he didn't give a damn at the moment. He searched the line again, but the Farris wheel had loaded its last group, and was starting to go again. And the man he thought he had seen was gone.
He cursed under his breath, but his partner took his side. "Well?" "I didn't get the chance dammit."
The taller one looked at his partner, "But does that matter, if you saw him or not? You know don't you, just like I do?" The shorter man cursed darkly, "Yes dammit. Why is he here? I thought he died!"
The taller man touched his partner's arm, "we all did, and look what happened to us, to her. It was only a matter of time before they all." The shorter one shook the hand off, "I know Kunzite! But I didn't do all this work, just to have that playboy ruin it all. And I wont let the others ruin it either." Kunzite chuckled, his straight white hair falling into his light blue eyes. "Work? What work? We haven't done anything but watched Zoi. And that's all we can do." "I don't wan that to be all we can do! Its about time, we took this into our own hands for once."
Kunzite smirked, "Awe, it's about time my friend. Come; let's visit an old friend. Then we'll figure out why he is here."
The shorter man nodded, "Fine." With that said, he followed his partner out, his anger slowly depleting from within, and out into the air of laughter, happiness and love.
?????
He sat alone in his room. His back rested against the headboard to his bed, his head bowed low. His eyes glared firmly at his hands that rested in his lap. He had finally found the time to think alone without interruptions, but as he sat alone, he couldn't concentrate.
His room was plagued with silence, the curtains drawn, and shadows played over his features. The air was cool, natural, with the fall air outside his window, outside and beyond the walls that locked him into this room. A room of solitude, of loneness, and damness.
He had never had anything more than that, except for one time, when a desperate man asked for his help.
The man had been one of science, a general of an organization that had gone against his code. Against what he believed in. He had denied helping, refused, and threaten to kill the scientist, the general, and the father to a child.
He had looked into the man's eyes, and saw determination, and need so grate in his eyes, that it burned him. And when he looked away, he saw the tomb. It was a holding place, where a child had grown up her whole life in. He had almost refused again, but thinking of that five year old, growing up inside a tank, never seeing the light day, the dark night, the moon, the stars, not even breath. She would have died in that tank, without even the chance to live.
So he had let the scientist, take his blood, to examine him, hook him up to the tank, to help stable her for the procedure. He had felt her heart, heard her breath, but couldn't see her face, or who she was. But it felt right, lying there near the tank, as the man took so much of his blood, that it made him dizzy. But it was a good kind, he had felt proud, and happy, that he had been able for once in his life, he saved an innocent.
But since that mission to infiltrate the base, gather information, and destroy the evidence he had been there, he began to dream. Never in his life, did her ever such a vivid dream, not even as a child, or growing up. The dream held so much emotion, that it was over whelming. He found it hard to breath.
The screams, were the most vivid of the dream, and even now, he could still hear them. In the room, surrounded by darkness, the screams of pain, fear, and desolation, echoed into his ears, plaguing his mind, clouding his thoughts. They tore at his sore, ripped at his heart, and burst his eardrums. The sound of her screams held so much, that it hurt, that he couldn't help her. Over and over, her watched her from high above, as she fought to get away. He could only stand, and watch as the darkness tore her limb by limb, slowly killing her, only leaving the outer shell. He had met her eyes countless of times, and saw the recognition, the fear, the passion, and the misery trapped in her dark depth.
Cursing, he climbed off the bed, and slowly walked across the room, to the small square bathroom. He leaned against the counter, and gripped the edges tightly. The dreams ran through his mind, even though he could remember them well enough to put them to words, he could still see her, and the images of her. She was alone, like him, and hiding the pain, like he did.
When the dream had first come, he thought she was his inner child. He hadn't told a soul, but believed it. But since the night he arrived, he would wake up with a start in bed, but he could still hear her cries. But they were real, and he had been curious enough, to see whom, but didn't dare to leave his room. His eyes would be streaked with tears, his face flush, sweat dripping from his forehead. His clothes ratted around his body, the sheets tossed to the floor, the pillow thrown across the room. The dream distracted him, day and night, plaguing him with thoughts he wished he never had to face.
Who was the girl in his dreams? And why did she always beg him for help, when he could barely help himself?
He looked up into the mirror, and scowled. Another long day, and night still had yet to come. He hadn't had a peaceful night sleep since they began. Turning away from the mirror, he walked back into the room. He plopped down on the messy bed, and pulled out file from the pillowcase covering his pillow. He opened it, and searched through the contents.
Inside was a photo of a young woman, in her late twenties. She was very beautiful, with an oval face, and very classical. Her hair was blond, and very long spilling down her back in loose waves. No bangs, to cover her small forehead, just a flow dark golden thick silk. Her azure, blue eyes wide, heavy lidded and thickly lashed, were bright and full of life. Her nose was perfectly short and straight. Her lips red with paint lush and full, forming into a pout, as she face an invisible character in front of her, holding the camera he could only assume. Her eyebrows were full and thick, but light. Her body was thin, but not overly so, and held curves. She had been dressed in a white shirt, and faded hip huggers, and a belt. A jean jacket draped over her shoulder. Her skin was fair and lightly tan.
He studied the picture, before turning it over. It had been taken the day before she had been emitted into the hospital in Japan. It had been her university; she had been 25 and married for six years with her brother's best friend. She had a daughter. The only picture he had of the girl, was a baby picture.
And from what the picture show, he couldn't match her to anyone he knew. The scientist, husband and father, wasn't the type you'd think would end up with Miss Universe. He was tall lengthy, with dark brown hair, nicely cut, and glasses to cover the bourbon brown eyes. He had the body of a runner, long legs and arms, big feet and hands. He was dressed in his lab coat, holding his newborn child in his arm, sitting next to the tired, but loving wife.
The last picture he had, was one of the late wife of Kenji Tsukino, Ikuko Tsukino. She had passed away in her hospital bed, and had died in front of her five-year-old child, who had disappeared ever since.
And then, he was sent on a mission, to gather information, on an attack on the Cinq Kingdom. He had run into Kenji Tsukino, who was intent on killing Relena Peacecraft. And he had saved the old man's child, who had been in an incubator of ten years. Slowly things began to fit together, but something was still missing.
Shaking his head, he tossed the folder aside on the bed, and laid back. He glanced at the clock. Duo had promised to bring the girl back by ten. He frowned; it was only eleven in the morning. He closed his eyes, to relax his mind, but what he didn't expect to fall into a deep sleep.
?????
The Farris wheel had long been over, and Usagi had sent Sairensu and Sabaku out to get cotton candy with the left over money Usagi had from her shopping spree the other day.
She had seen Chibi Usa, and Okibi from the corner of her eyes, and interested followed close behind. What she found was the cutest sight ever. Okibi was sitting lady like on a black stallion. The head had been thrown back, the reins whipping the air. The black mane swaying in an imaginable breeze. The saddle was dark bourbon brown, with red trim, and gold buttons for decoration.
Duo sat beside Okibi, on another black horse similar to the one she rode. His was more relaxed, the head down, as if ready to race it competitor. The tail had been whipped out behind it flowing in the air.
Duo sat on the leather saddle; his arms crossed over his chest, and he was frowning.
Usagi grinned, and raced towards them. The leaned over the gate, and waved at them. "Hey Duo chan!" He looked up, at the sound of his name. His dark eyes landed on the blond, and he instantly grinned. Suddenly the Merry-Go-Round jerked, nearly throwing Duos off the horse. He gripped the pole in front of him, as the ride began. Music surrounded them, and filled the air, with its pathetic tunes.
Usagi sighed, and turned around she glanced around the fair grounds, searched for Sairensu, and Sabaku. She spotted the two near the bouncing castle. Sabaku, was inside flying around, and hitting the walls. she was having a grand time, with Sairensu watching her. "Usagi!" Usagi turned to see Okibi bouncing around, and full of giggles. She broke out in a grin, and clapped her hands together. "Go Okibi chan!!!"
Something brushed up against her, making her uncomfortable. She straightened up, and turned around. "I'm sorry Miss. Someone bumped into me." Usagi absently nodded, as she stared into bourbon brown eyes, and thick chestnut brown hair, that fell in waves loosely down his back, reaching to his waist. He was dressed elegantly, in black slacks, and a sleek green dress shirt, that clung to his well-developed chest. His body reminded her of a football player, well built, and strong looking with powerful arms and legs.
He flashed her a grin, causing her insides to flop inside her. "It's alright, you just startled me...that's all." He nodded, and took he hand, "Again I'm sorry Miss. My name is Nephrite." Usagi smiled, and shook his hand, "Usagi." He stilled her hand, and brought it to his lips, and kissed her knuckles.
Usagi stared at him wide eyed with embarrassment, "Wha...What are you doing?" He grinned up at her, "Showing respect to a lovely lady."
"Hey leave her alone!"
Sairensu burst through between them, and kept Usagi behind him. Usagi blinked in surprise, and stared down at Sairensu as if he'd grown another head. He had spoken, but his voice was so cold. She had heard that voice before, from somewhere.
He had taken a defensive stance, one that could easily, and swiftly slide into a fighting stance if needed. His eyes held hatred to the man, who had touched Usagi.
Suddenly Kojou, and Junsei appeared next to him. They held the same pose, both their eyes glaring at the taller and older man, who most likely could out weigh them, and beat them up easily.
The man frowned slightly at them, but looked up at Usagi. "Looks like you have a little fan club here miss Usagi." Usagi blinked, and looked at him. "Uh..." She looked down at the three heads that held her back from the man who had kissed her hand. Who had made her feel embarrassed, and slightly uncomfortable.
She shook her head, "Where's Saba chan?" Usagi whirled around, her eyes flying through the crowd. "Sairensu, how could you just..."
"Usagi!" The girl came flying out of the crowd, and jumped into her arms. "I miss you." Usagi hugged the girl tightly in her arms, and blinked back the threatening tears. "Saba chan, you made me worried. I thought you were gone." The little girl shook her head, "No, Sairensu took me out of the bouncy ride. He told me you were in twouble."
The little girl bit her lip, and looked at the man behind Usagi. He was frowning at all the kids, and looked ready to leave. "You look like Zuchi!" He scowled slightly, and paid her now heed. "Well I better go. It was nice meeting you Miss Usagi." With that, he left with a wave of his hand. Usagi turned around, and looked at Sabaku's face.
Duo, and Okibi came up to them. "Who was that Usagi?" Usagi glanced at him, "he said his name was Nephrite." Duo nodded, and looked at Sabaku. She was biting her lower lip nervously.
In fact, all the kids' demeanor had changed since he introduced Usagi to them. Now he just had to figure out, if it was for the better.
?????
The drive home was a long one. After dropping off the kids, and tucking them into the bed at the orphanage, the clock had already struck midnight.
Usagi had fallen asleep in the back seat, while Duo sat up front with Peagan, and talked with the older man about Usagi's past. From the old man, he learned nothing more than what Usagi had told him.
When the limo pulled to a stop, in front of the Winner Mansion, Usagi's eyes, had already snapped open, and she was sitting up before Duo got to her door. She slid out tiredly, stretching her arms over her head. Without Duo's help, she trudged up the stairs slowly, and slipped inside the mansion. Duo was still out at the car, trying to collect all the prizes he had won in the games. He had spent $50 on game, and about $110 for the bracelets.
Usagi left the door open behind her, and made her way up the flight of stairs. She swayed on her feet, and wondered if it was the days events, that made her nauseated, and slightly light headed. Her stomach seemed to flop inside her, and roll around uncomfortable. She stopped halfway up the stairs, and looked up.
Her vision swam before her eyes, and all at once the ground tilted, and she felt as if she was going to fall. She gripped the railing, hoping it was just the hotdog she had, before going on the tilt-o-whirl, or the cotton candy before going on the graviton. Or maybe the chocolate cream pie, from the eating contest she had stolen, instead of racing against everyone else, and enjoyed it slowly and savored every bite, before Junsei talked her into going on the Star Trooper, that had seemed a little to fast, and open air for her.
She held onto the post, and slid down onto her butt, till she was sitting on the staircase. She could barely breath, and her lungs felt like they would burst open, if she inhaled too deep. Her lungs burned, begging for air, but each time she tried, they ached.
She gagged, coughing in fits. Her knuckles turned white, as she gripped the handrail tightly, like a lifeline. "Usagi?" a face appeared in front of her. The same face that was there to give her strength, the night the monster came. The night the man came to kill her, but only ended up being killed. He didn't need to say anything, or doing anything, but be there to give her strength. But now, her body rejected anything his presence gave her. "I...I can't breathe." She let the railing go, even though it meant throwing away her chance to live, and fell against him, before she could fall. She held onto him, turning him into the lifeline, the rail had once been.
Her nails dug into his shoulders, and she buried her face into his shoulder, trying to breath. "Usagi!" Duo's voice sounded frantic, and she heard all the stuff toys he had won her fall to the floor. She was lifted up, and held like a child in a warm embrace. It gave her nothing but strength. No compassion, no sympathy, no love, just the feeling of being there for her when she needed it most. "Get the doctor Duo. she needs help."
He carried her up the rest of the stairs, and to her new room Quatre had given her that afternoon.
Darkness clawed at the corners of her mind, and sleep seemed to fill her body, before she could block it out. She gave out a good fight, but had no choice but to succumb to it, and her eyes fell heavy, and she let them fall under the weight.
He laid her down on the bed, and pulled away. He stared at her, and wondered what kind of dreams she had, and wondered if they were filled with sweets, and love, and joy. But as she watched her face, and saw how pale it went, as if someone had opened a floodgate for her blood. All the color, the fever, and blood seemed to rush out of her face. Her head was thrown to the side, and she mumbled in her sleep.
His eyes narrowed slightly, but the door to the room opened, and the doctor came in, with Quatre, Trowa, Wufei, Duo and Relena.
He was pushed to the side, and he watched from the doorway, as the doctor diagnosed her with the flu. After subscribing antibiotics, the doctor left in a huff. Quatre left with the words of fixing breakfast for her. Trowa mention nothing, but left, but sill flashed a worried look at the blond lying pale and drawn on the bed. Wufei muttered how weak the girl had been for letting a virus get to her, and left without another word. Duo just looked at him, his eyes filled with worry.
"Is she going to be alright?"
He shrugged, he was a doctor, but the doctor had said it was just the flu. "She had looked alright at the fair. Why so sudden, don't you wake up with a cold first? It just doesn't hit you all of a sudden right? Look at her face, it's so pale..."
Relena touched Duo's shoulder, "She'll be alright Duo chan. My itoko is a strong girl, she wont let this virus get to her I know it. Come on lets get some sleep. We'll visit her in the morning." Duo glanced at Relena, and nodded slowly, and let the girl lead him out of the room.
He was left alone with the girl, but not for long. He gave her one glance, before slipping out of the room and shutting the door. He had done what was needed at the time. He had been the sensible one there, and had given the orders. There was nothing he could do now, nothing he could do, could save her from her dreams.