Raptures of Paradise: Chapters 1-6

by Sailor Celaeno

I decided to put this up again in a slightly different way to make it easier and save people time in reading this. Well, there lots of categories that this could fit in, so I decided to put it in general. Standard non-yaoi couples, no flames about the cou

3. Default Chapter Title

Well, hope you like this, and this wets your appetite for the WHOLE story. Note, I'm obviously a Non-Yaoi writer, and a person who tends to write sappy stories, so if you don't like this kind of story, then GET OUT NOW!!! Please note that I don't any of the characters except Nova. This does have a Sailor Moon crossover in it. Oh yes, and some of the Sailor attacks are ones that I made up from a Sailor Moon fic I'm writing. Now, enjoy.

Gundam Wing: Raptures of Paradise

Chapter 13----------Bouquets and Blasters

By Sailor Celaeno

Seven A.M. Noin had awaken in Relena's apartment. She thought it would be a good idea to sleep over at Relena's and wait to see her future husband later at the ceremony. She slowly left her bedroom in her yellow pajamas with thin, red lines that went up and down her clothes. She rubbed her eyes and did a little stretch. She saw that Peygan was already up having breakfast made. Relena stepped out of the bathroom with a toothbrush in her mouth. She had a cotten, pink nightshirt that covered everything except her feet and ankles. "Good morning, Relena," said Noin with a little yawn.

"Good mawning," replied Relena as she brushed. They proceeded to the small, circular dining table that was on the other side of Relena's living room. The New York Times was spread out on the table. Relena proceeded to read the headlines of the main section, while Noin perused over the Arts section.

"Breakfast will be ready in a few minutes," called Peygan.

Relena's mouth was filled with toothpaste foam, so Noin spoke on both of their behalves. "Thank you Peygan."

After another minute of brushing, Relena left her seat to the bathroom, and proceeded to rinse her mouth and wash her face. Her droopy eyes slowly perked up a little from the short walk through her penthouse. "We still have seven hours before the wedding. We still have plenty of time to get ready."

"True." Noin took a sip of her coffee. "But, it doesn't hurt to get up early after all, we have a lot to do."

"We have to get our hair done, and into our dresses. Not to mention, I still have to check that the reception hall is settled and ready," Relena said as she took her seat again.

"With you on top of things, no doubt everything will be perfect." Noin took another sip of her coffee.

Six thirty A.M. Heero had awaken and saw that he still had plenty of time to get ready for the wedding. He had enough time to do more research on Nova. He learned that Nova was no longer a CEO, but had resigned that position and accepted a demotion to being the head of the PR department. "What are you up to?" He kept typing away as he drank coffee.

Several news articles appeared as he read that the press release of this news was last night. She would become the head of PR starting this Monday. "I have decided that being a CEO in this company deserves a more qualified person for the position. Though I have been on top of things, I feel that I lack the energy to run this vast corporation with Maia Suartha, and the seven other members of the Board. A person with more experience than I should take my place. I wish to return to my place as PR Agent for the company," she said in the press release.

"She is up to something. But what, I can't figure out." Heero kept typing away. He applied for a position in the Preventers. Even though he had a knack for finding information on people, he realized that the Preventers would be a great asset to his observation of Nova Rokureno and Trista Meioh. The files that the Preventers were as thorough and in depth as any FBI or CIA file. They may have that information, and as a Preventer agent, he would have some form of access to it.

"I only hope that I can succeed."

Nine A.M. The alarm clock beeped as Quatre slowly opened his blue eyes. He stared at the clock. He still couldn't believe that time flew by so quickly. He didn't get back to the house he owned until two last night. He knew he had to get up. "I have to get ready for the wedding," he groaned to convince himself to get up. With slow reluctance, he managed to roll onto his side to stare at the window with the curtains already drawn back. The sun was bathing the room with warm, golden rays. He smiled at the beautiful outside as he saw the azure sky. White clouds ventured their way across the blue field, and two small birds danced high in the heavens with the clouds. "Nice day for an outdoor wedding," Quatre murmured to himself.

After another minute of staring at the sky, he managed to sit up in his comfy bed. He stretched his arms and made a great, big yawn. He rolled his neck and made a slight crack noise. "Oh geez. I seriously to work out more. I'm SO stiff." He moaned a little as he stood up and stretched some more. He shuffled across the room to his bathroom. He stared at his image. His hair was really tousled and he looked like he had been through a hurricane. He sighed and turned on the sink. He threw water on his face and rubbed his cheeks.

He took off his clothes and stepped into to the shower. The perfect temperature water rushed over him as he pour shampoo on his head. He scrubbed his head, and the rest of his body thoroughly. "Mmmm. This is a nice shower. Just what I need," he thought happily as he suddenly had the urge to sing. He remembered the nice seranade Dorothy did for him last night, and Carpenter songs popped into his head......

He was soon done, and wrapped himself in a fluffy green robe that hung on a railing. He had a red towel to dry off his hair. He stared out the window again and sighed as he opened it. Cool air fanned over him and the sunlight still beamed down on him to start drying his hair. His flaxen locks were soon naturally in his trademark hair style as he rubbed his hair with his towel. "I wish I could share this nice morning with everyone I love dearly," he sighed as he took a deep breath of the fresh air. "Heero, Duo, Wufei, Trowa, Dorothy..." His mind wandered as he thought of Dorothy again.

He still he couldn't believe how much she had changed. But so it was. They still disagreed about the necessity of conflict, but they did agree that in the end, there would be peace. Even if it was only a brief moment. He had another urge. Quatre walked over to his phone and decided to make an important call.

The phone rang. Beeeeeeeppp... beeeeeppp... beeeeeppp... The covers slowly moved off her head, as Dorothy stretched and yawned. She rubbed her eyes as she slid upwards until she sat in bed. She slowly leaned over to her phone and pressed it on. "Hello?" she said with her usual voice, only a little quieter since she was still tired.

"Hi Dorothy," said a sweet, familiar voice.

She smiled. "Hello, Quatre." She leaned against her bed post and wrapped herself with her blankets again.

"Just wondering how you were," was his response.

"I'm still a little tired, but I'm good. And you?"

"I'm good. Just wanted to ask you if you looked outside yet." Quatre had a cordless phone and walked back towards the window from his bedside table.

"No. I just got up."

"You did?" There a slight pause. "I'm sorry, I woke you up."

"Hmm. Hearing you talk to me again is worth waking up." Dorothy could picture him blushing a little, which he was. She stared out of the balcony window in her penthouse apartment. She lived only a few blocks from Relena and had managed to find a nice place of her own. "My, it is nice outside." A cool breeze entered her room, and her blue wind chimes twinkled it's little melody. She smiled as she remembered Quatre bought her the wind chimes after the brunch with Nova.

"I know. Just wanted to see if you looked. It's a perfect day for a wedding." Quatre had began dressing in his usual casual clothes.

"I have to agree. I think it was somehow meant to be this nice."

"As did I. Last night was fun, wasn't it?"

Dorothy laughed a little. "Yes. I thought it was funny when Milliardo and Duo were trying to out do each other. Of course, I enjoyed your singing, Quatre. Thank you again."

Quatre was still a little annoyed at Duo and Zechs flaunting themselves on stage. But at least, he and the other guys got a little revenge when they wooed back their dates. Although he was a little disturbed when Trowa and Heero went up to the mike. He couldn't quite understand why they were a little cruel in their choice of performance. "I'm worried about Trowa and Heero."

"I know. I tried to talk to Miss Relena last night." Dorothy and Quatre did notice that Trowa seemed to be glaring at Midii during the song. Heero focused straight at Relena's direction as he kept singing for 'American Woman' to go away.

"Did the talk work?" he asked.

"Not much. She tried to convince me that she wasn't at all bothered or aware anything was wrong. I know her well enough to know that it's bothering. She can't possibly be fine by it. Heero Yuy is on her mind too much and for too long for her to simply be oblivious to that."

"She's never been afraid of him before..." Quatre said as he left his room and down the stairs.

"It's not fear. He never noticed her before, but it seems he was making the separation line clear to her. It's obvious that he wants nothing more to do with her. She sees it now, and it's hurting her. Before, he accepted her and was ready to stand by her. But now... now he wants his distance," Dorothy said as she walked into her bathroom.

Quatre walked down the hallway towards the dining room. "I see what you mean." He saw that breakfast was being set on the table. He took his seat. "There's nothing much either one of can do about it. It's the same thing with Trowa."

"Yes. What happened with him and Miss Midii?"

"Trowa had no comment. Cathy told me what little she knew. She told me she met Midii three years ago. They were friends for a while, but she disappeared. Then Cathy met Midii again. It looks like Midii is upsetting Trowa somehow."

"Do you think you'll be able to figure out what's wrong?"

"I don't know, but I'll try very hard."

Trowa and Cathy woke up early like everyone else. "Trowa?"

"Yes, Catherine?"

"What is it between you and Midii?"

Trowa was silent at the mention of HER name. His eyes narrowed as he thought of that ten-year-old girl that had betrayed him those six years ago. 'How could she still be alive?' he asked himself before. "Nothing," he lied.

Catherine stared with suspicion at her young brother. "Don't pretend that nothing is wrong. You always do that, and I know it's not true. There is something that happened between the two of you and I won't stop until you tell me the truth. You know me well enough to know that I will do whatever I can to find out what is going on."

Trowa looked up at that determined girl. She'd do anything for him. Even if it meant walking through the billowing flames of Hell. She wasn't the sort to give up on anyone she loved, and Trowa meant a great deal to her. "Midii killed me." That was all he said as he left the small apartment that he lived in.

She could only stare at the closed apartment door. "Oh Trowa." She sat on the sofa, still staring at the door. 'What kind of darkness still clouds you? What sort of sorrow covers over you so thickly?' She turned her to the apartment window that overlooked the street. There were a few cars parked on both sides, and other cars drove down the small one way street. The sun was shining brightly over the humming community as people emerged from their abodes to embrace the new, Saturday morning. Children already flocked to the local playground and played their games.

The children walked down the street and turned towards the swings and basketball hoops to play a few games. Trowa walked among the throng and only walked. Not going to any particular place. He watched silently watched the kids merrily running to meet their friends. He saw a boy and a girl walking by him. "Here Tommy. I got a gift for you," smiled the girl. She handed him a key chain with a globe shaped charm.

"Thanks, Melissa." The boy put his house key on the chain and carefully slipped it into his pocket. They ran off together into the park. Trowa watched. A boy and girl, together. He could only think of the past. The things that happened nearly seven years ago.

It was just him and her. Two children alone in desolation. Betrayal was a sour dish that was difficult to swallow. Trowa lost his comrades. He showed no sorrow for their loss, but deep within himself, he missed them terribly. They showed him how to fight. He had always been a fighter, born the little soldier, all alone in the world. He fought to survive. But now it was more than the human desire and instinct to survive. He had to fight to move beyond the hazy, long ago past. "Midii. I won't let you destroy anyone. You are a spy, deep down, a spy. The betrayer and I will have to live with knowing what you've done to me." Trowa stared at the children at play.

"Hello Trowa," said that voice.

"Midii," he said with his general politeness. He was suspicious of her presence in his life. "I didn't expect you to be here."

Midii smiled slyly. "Of course not Trowa. I'm not a conventional woman."

"You never were." Trowa never looked at her. He stayed facing the children, with his back towards her.

"I see that you are as stoic and cold as you were. Still the soldier, killing and destroying the enemy."

"I see that you are still the spy. Doing whatever she can to survive, even if it means destroying thousands of lives. Are you and your family well?"

Midii was silent. "They're gone."

"Gone?" he remained his calm, unassuming self, but had a tinge of confusion.

"Father died two years ago. Alexi and Rudolph died in a fire when I was away. The only one left is Devon. Devon is my only reason to love anything anymore. But he's dying."

"Why is that?"

"He's ill. Only have three more months, the doctors say. He has been sick since he was a baby. It's a miracle he lived as long as he had."

"How's he being taken cared of?" Trowa was suspicious that she was being a spy and he was a target.

"I have a small part-time job. Just enough to get him a place at a hospice." She walked closer to Trowa, until she was next to him. "You know, I'm not as bad as you think."

"I want you to stay away from Catherine."

"What?" she asked incredulously.

"You know what I mean." He paused before he spoke again. "You are spy. Working for someone. You're doing what you can to stick by Cathy and me. Whatever it is, you had better stay away from us. I didn't kill you seven years ago, but don't think that you can tempt Fate again."

Midii stared at him thoughtfully. "Did you ever tell her what happened between us?"

"I won't. After all, the less she knows, the better. I don't want her to get mixed up in some crazy business you're up to. Last time I was with you, Alliance military destroyed hundreds of rebels."

"You killed some of them yourself." Midii was silent. She breathed deeply and spoke again. "Don't think that I've ever looked back on those days and saw how I've destroyed people."

"You've changed."

"And so have you Trowa." She walked around him in an interrogating manner. "You pretend to be so calm faced and unemotional. But Catherine has changed you. You have a heart that feels things. You wouldn't be so protective of her if you didn't have feelings. You fear me for some reason. Why is that?" She had made three turns around and finally stood in his face.

"You seem to know the answers. You can answer them yourself."

"You fear me because you know I've turned into you."

"Have you indeed?" Trowa simply looked at her.

"Yes, Trowa. I don't have the emotions to tie me down. I no longer feel remorse for anything I must do. I have nothing left to hold me back. I will do what I must to survive."

"I believe you would," he said.

"Good bye Nanashi." She walked away. Leaving Trowa a chill in his spine. It was already disturbing that Midii would destroy lives and feel guilty, but now she would destroy lives without a conscious thought for their well-being. He did have something fear. He feared a destroyer that would care less for anything.

Relena and Noin were changing into their dresses. Dorothy, Hilde, and Catherine arrived at the penthouse to visit the bride before the wedding. The four young women sat in Relena's living room. "I still can't believe the day is here," said Hilde.

"I know. I never imagined this day would come. And it's so wonderful outside. I don't think anything bad could ever happen," said Relena. She work a turquoise dress with spaghetti straps on her shoulders. She had a rose corsage in her hair and she had matching jewelry.

"How are you today, Relena?" asked Dorothy.

"I'm well, Dorothy. I'm rather excited with the wedding and all."

"I hope so. I'm eager to see Milliardo in his tuxedo. Didn't you say that he chose a white tux?"

Relena nodded the affirmative. "Of course. Don't be surprised when you see Lucrezia."

"Why?" asked Catherine.

"Well. Since she's marrying Milliardo, who is still Prince of the Sanc kingdom, she must be decked in jewelry and things." Relena and Milliardo still had their titles as Princess and Prince of the Sanc kingdom. Their descendants would continue carrying titles, however, they were allowed to pursue their lives the manner they wished.

"Wow! Princess Lucrezia. That has a nice ring to it," sighed Hilde as she wished she was a princess in real life.

"I guess it does," said Lucrezia as she emerged from Relena's spare bedroom. She was decked in an elegant, but simple dress. She wore a few diamond studded pieces of jewelry set in white gold. She wore heels that click-clacked on the floor. She had a simple veil over her face.

"Wow, Lucrezia. You look lovely. Picture perfect," said Sally. Since they were not on duty, they were free to address each other by first name.

"Thanks Sally."

"I guess we're ready to go."

The gundam pilots were cajoled into becoming ushers at the outdoor wedding in the botanical gardens. There were a few Peacecraft family friends, and members of the Preventers, who came to celebrate the union of their superiors. The ushers took their seats as the music began to play. They saw a little boy and girl, children of Countess Melinda de Bavroche, walk down the aisle. The countess was a distant relative of the Peacecrafts and the closest living family left for Relena and Milliardo.

Heero was a little stunned to see Relena walk down the aisle with a garland of daisies in her hair, and wearing a light blue dress. She wore matching shoes, and smiled as she took her place as maid of honor. The music changed as Lucrezia appeared. Beneath the veil, she was smiling joyfully as she saw her future husband waiting for her at the end. Step and step, she walked ever closer. The music sounded.

Noin was glowing with happiness as she saw Zechs waiting for her at the end of the aisle. "I'm going to Mrs. Milliardo Peacecraft in twenty minutes," Noin thought happily.

Suddenly, gunfire could be heard outside of the gardens. Immediately the Preventer agents spread out to deal with the noise. As they raced outside of the garden, they saw strange looking monsters appear. "What are those things?" asked a young man.

"I don't know, but they are not here for the cake. Fire!!" commanded an officer. They showered the monsters with barrages of gunfire.

Everyone within the garden were in a panic. They were surrounded by monsters that began a great battle. Lucrezia ran to Milliardo and Relena. The pilots and their dates also gathered. "What's going on?" asked little Mariemaya.

"I don't know," said Lady Une, as she held onto the little girl.

"Don't mind if we drop in." The monsters and Preventers moved the fight away from the wedding, leaving the political heads, and the wedding party alone. Five masked women in bodysuit uniforms appeared.

"Who are you?" growled Milliardo, irritated at these strange women.

"We are the Raptures of Paradise. And you, Mister Peacecraft, are no longer needed. None of you are needed anymore. Ladies?" said Avatar.

"I don't think so!" called a girl's voice.

"Who dares to interrupt me?"

A girl in a pink fuku appeared. "I'm the champion of love and justice. I am Sailor Chibi Moon. And I will punish you!" She did her usual sailor pose.

"Ha! You think you can defeat us?" laughed the leader. She wore a navy leather catsuit with a matching navy mask.

A woman with a red catsuit held a strange jet pack on her back with a rifle with a tube that attached it to the jet pack. "Feel the wrath of the goddess of Fire!!!!" Flames shot from the gun straight towards, Sailor Chibi Moon.

"Shine... Aqua...Illusion!" A voice shouted, and freezing water put out the flames. A thirty-something year old woman in a sky blue fuku appeared. Other women wearing different uniforms appeared.

The Gundam pilots stared suspiciously at these strange women. "Who are they?" asked Relena with concern. The pilots couldn't help noticing that these Sailor women seemed familiar.

"Heero?" asked Quatre.

"Hn?"

"Do you think these are the girls we met last year? Those girls that Sailor Celaeno and Sailor Pluto were talking about?"

"It's possible. They have the same uniform. Just different colors."

"Damn it! We have to get out of here," shouted the Flamethrower.

"Right," said Avatar. They all vanished. THe Preventers were running back into the wedding. One officer ran towards the pilots.

"We can't hold them back," apologized the officer.

"We'll take care of them," said a Sailor woman with a green fuku.

The monsters burst back into the garden. "Mercury... Icicle... Shower!" Shards of icicles flew through the air, and six were impaled to death by the knives of ice.

"Mars... Fire... Spin!" Sailor Mars touched her lips with her hand. Instead of blowing a kiss, she blew a barrage of fireballs at the monsters. Five were incinerated to ashes.

Heero and the others could only watch in amazement and worry at the power these women had. They weren't sure how to greet these women when the fighting ended. Quatre and the women were grateful. The other pilots were more reserved about these Sailor women. Why was it that they so conveniently appeared after the Raptures of Paradise appeared.

"Venus...Spark... eruption!" Little gold hearts appeared and as they flew away from Sailor Venus's hand, they exploded. The monsters were dazed and confused when they heard, "Jupiter... lightning...Strike!" A massive charge of lightning appeared from Sailor Jupiter's hands.

The three other scouts were surrounding Sailor Chibi Moon protectively. The Negaverse monsters were destroyed. The pilots held their guns at the Sailor Scouts. The three scouts surrounded Sailor Chibi Moon even more closely. "Gee.. you're welcome," said Sailor Jupiter with sarcasm.

"Who the hell are you?" asked Duo.

"The ones who saved your sorry asses," snarled Sailor Uranus.

Both sides were ready for a fight until Sailor Chibi Moon screamed, "STOP IT!!!!!" at several decibels above normal hearing. They all cringed at the voice. "Will you stop it? We're all good guys here. Don't forget the mission!"

Sailor Uranus looked down at Chibi Moon and gave her, her trademark grin. "Alright your highness."

"Your highness?" murmured Relena out of curiosity.

"We have no time for this. We must get going if we're going to track the Negaverse," continued Chibi Moon to the other Sailors. They all turned their backs towards the pilots and began to walk away.

"Where are you going?" asked Relena.

Chibi Moon turned around and smiled. "We have a mission." She walked closer and took Relena's hands in her own. "You must stay away, Princess. You could get hurt."

"What about you?"

"I was given a special destiny that I must fulfill." Chibi Moon turned to the others. "As for the rest of you," she spoke with a stern voice. "You must stay away from the Raptures. They are scout business. Don't even try touching them. They would destroy you all."

"Who are you to tell us what to do, little woman?" said Wufei. He was irritated that a younger girl would talk to him like she was his equal.

"I will NOT warn you again. You will die." Chibi Moon did a somersault and disappeared.

Even Quatre was getting a little worried by now. "They mean business. What are we going to do?" Quatre broke the eerie silence.

"We'll have to deal with this some other time," replied Lady Une.

"She's right," rpelied Noin. "We have a wedding to attend to."

"Damn! Those Sailor bitches had to get involved!" screamed Flamethrower. She paced the room angrily in her red uniform, without her mask.

"They certainly spoiled our fun," pouted Cat.

"What can we do? They took us by surprise," said Quint, who was wearing a forest green outfit.

Only Agent Une and Avatar were quiet. They reflected on the words of the others. "I have no doubt that they will certainly be a challenge. I have no doubts about the future of the plan," was all Avatar said.

"What? Did you see what they did to those daimons we had as backup? All eliminated!" Flamethrower continued with her tirade.

"That will be no obstacle."

"What?" cried Flamethrower, Quint, and Cat.

Agent Une nodded knowingly. "Of course ladies. We still have two things going for us."

"What's that?" asked Cat.

"The pilots don't trust the scouts, and the scouts are determined to take care of us without them interfering. Even if they manage to get together, we'll be able to find their weaknesses by then. Enough to take care of them," smiled Avatar.

"What's the other thing?" asked Quint.

"Agent Une." They turned to look at their teammate who soon left the room.

"Alright, ladies!" shouted Noin. "Time to catch the bouquet!" All the single women gathered in a massive group. All their dates grinned and sweat nervously. The single women were buzzing with eager grins and giggles.

Wufei groaned with annoyance. "What is with these stupid games? They're just as bad as some of those Chinese ones I've heard about."

"Chinese people have wedding games?" asked Quatre.

"Yes, and they are humiliating," replied Wufei. No one noticed the devious grin that crept Duo's face.

"Okay ready?" asked Noin. Her back was turned.

"Yes!!!!!!" replied thirty women.

"One... two... three..." Noin chucked the bouquet into the crowd. They all ran to catch the bouquet. It was a struggle for two minutes before someone shouted.

"I got it!!!!" cried a young woman.

"Oh no!" cried her date. His friends had sly grins on their faces.

"Your turns." Their dates reappeared at the table.

"Don't you dare make me go up there!" demanded Wufei.

"Come on!" pulled Sally.

"Injustice!" All of the single men were there. The five pilots tried to shrink into the back of the crowd of the twenty-five men. They were able to see Noin sitting in a chair. Milliardo was on his knees in front of her.

The emcee of the reception appeared with a microphone. "Now, we all know that the groom has to get the garter off his lovely wife." There were a few whistles, and whoo-hoo's from the rowdy single guys. "But... But!" he said to calm them down. "but, we decided to spice things up a little." There were a few yeah's in response. "Milliardo will NOT be taking it off with his hands." A few devilish grins appeared on the faces of the men in the room.

"What?" Milliardo replied horrified.

"That's right. You will take off the garter belt with... your... teeth!" Everyone laughed in excitement. "Play the music!" They began to play "Fever".

Milliardo looked a little red as he stared in Noin's face. She smiled a little as she lifted up her skirt. Within less than a minute, he was under her skirt, tugging at the garter belt with his teeth. There were cheers urging him on. His cheek touched the nylon covered legs of his new wife. 'She feels so good,' he couldn't help but think to himself as he pulled at the garter.

Noin could feel the warmth of his breath. She felt goosebumps of excitement. She could feel the garter closer to her knee. 'This feels a little familiar,' she alluded to the first time they made love. The sweet feeling of unending pleasure and rapture. Like a heavenly paradise, it wasn't just being a bedroom naked with him that was the paradise, but just being anywhere with him. "YEAH!!!!" the crowd cheered. She snapped back into reality as she looked to see Milliardo with the garter still between his teeth. He caught it, and held out a hand. She took it and he pulled her up.

"Milliardo Peacecraft!" The crowd cheered for his success. "Okay gentlemen. THe lucky guy who catches the garter gets to put it on this lovely young lady!" The emcee presented the lucky girl who caught the bouquet.

"Wow, she's a babe. I wanna get it!" said one guy.

"Yeah, she's something."

Her date glared at those two. Wufei noticed his bubbling anger. "I wonder who's going to catch it." He glared at Wufei and faced the front. Milliardo had his back turned.

"One..." he was ready to toss. "...two... three!" He threw the garter as hard as he could. The men scrambled to get it, but the garter planted itself in the hands of one of the pilots.

"Well, lucky you," smiled Wufei. The lucky pilot walked up front.

"Are you ready?" asked the emcee.

"Why not? She's my girlfriend," he replied.

"I see..." replied the emcee. "I'm sure you'd kill someone else if they caught it."

He smiled wickedly at the crowd of unlucky guys. "Maybe."

"Well, since Milliardo had to go through the same thing. You are going to put the garter on her with your teeth!" the crowd goes crazy. He smiles deviously at her.

"I know you, Duo Maxwell. I'm getting worried at what you're going to do," said Hilde.

"Well, since we're the center of attention, let's give 'em a real show."

"How I do end up these messes?" sighed Hilde.

"You wanted the bouquet. I wanted to make sure no one makes a move on my favorite girl in the universe," Duo replied.

The music to "Baby Did a Bad, Bad Thing" began to play. "Alright, to spice things up more, we are going to blindfold you!" Duo was promptly blindfolded with a napkin. He twirled the garter on his finger. Then he lightly sniffed it and made a purring noise in Hilde's direction. She began blushing.

"Quatre would have a heart attack," snickered Catherine at her brother's best friend. Quatre blushed profusely. Dorothy only smiled in his direction.

Duo was allowed to put the garter on her ankle with his hands, but he had to go the rest of the way with his teeth. "Higher! Higher! Higher!" the guys chanted.

'If that's what the people want, who am I to deny them that?' he thought devilishly. He grunted a little as he tried to pull the garter up Hilde's leg. 'Hey, this is kinda turning me on,' he thought as he reached her knee.

'Knowing that Duo this sort of thing is turning him on,' sighed Hilde to herself. 'At least, I'm going to marry Duo!' she smiled.

'I have to torture Wufei sometime. Hmm..." he was brainstorming as he was finishing at the top of her knee. He was done, and emerged from under her skirt to cheers from the crowd.

"Not a bad show," teased Heero a little.

"Thanks, Yuy."

Agent Une was staring through the window of the reception hall. "You're all going to suffer soon. And you don't know it's even coming."

Author's note:

Hope you found the reception amusing to read as it was for me to write it. That scene is based on some weddings I've gone to where they play similar versions. MWHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!! What will happen to the pilots next? You'll have to wait for Chapter 14.

This is a chapter that's about Midii and before she became known as Agent Une by the Raptures of Paradise. Now, enjoy.

Gundam Wing: Raptures of Paradise

Chapter 14---------- The Silent Spy

By Sailor Celaeno

Midii walked to the cemetery. Devon was gone and it was two weeks after Milliardo and Lucrezia were married. It didn't surprise her one bit that she found herself here in this place. She had found herself in that strange and calm place. She was no stranger to the land where the dead slept for all eternity. She had been surrounded by death all her life. Her mother died from an infection a few weeks after she gave birth to Devon. Devon was already a sick child and he was on his slow march to the grave to join the mother they gave him life, and the brothers and father that went before him. Midii found her way back to her home colony to visit them. The Unes had increased the family plot 20 years ago. In order to bury her grandparents, her father purchased an extra track so he could keep the family together in the future. Little did he realize, he would find himself in that healthy, life giving earth, 18 years later.

Midii could only stare at the graves and the epitaphs that were carved into the cold stone surface. Three generations of Unes were buried. Eighteen spaces, fourteen graves and four more to be filled. Her and three lost cousins. Devon would soon occupy his lot, but she was uncertain of when she will meet her time. Every year, her family would trek to the cemetery to visit the relatives that have passed. Her father would tell her and her brothers who all the people were and how they died. She felt sorry for them, but she couldn't cry for anyone except her grandmother, her parents, and her brothers. The others were strangers with the same name and blood as her.

Grandfather Michaelas Une was 59 when he died. He was killed in a car accident that nearly killed four others. He was orphaned when his mother died and his father abandoned him with his mother's sister. He fought hard to achieve greatness and he was a great mobile suit engineer.

Andreas Une, her oldest uncle, was a burly man who loved to fight. He had a thing for brawls. Unfortunately one brawl led to his death. He was shot three times in a seedy bar in the capital of Colony 165.

His wife, Maureen Callahan, died years later. She was a victim of the Earth Sphere Alliances' attempt to control the Earth and her colonies. She was a rebel after Andreas' death and left the Une family. She was returned to the Une family, only because she was still an Une and must be buried beside her husband and Cathleen.

Cathleen Callahan Une was a little infant girl, who died when she was two. The same disease had drained the life from Devon was the same that claimed the blond cherub from her parents. Cathleen would have been 26 now, had she lived.

Nathaniel Une was her second uncle. He was a happy man and blond like her father and brothers. He was an ambitious businessman with a wife and three children. Although his wife divorced from him, he still had his three children. It was sad how he was drowned in a storm that capsized the boat he was on. The irony was he was known as a great swimmer in his youth at school. His three children went to his ex-wife and the Une family never heard them of again.

Natasha Kessandra Une was a little girl who died at age five. She wandered away from her parents one day and was not seen for two days. She was found in a small duck pond, hidden by reeds. She had fallen into the shallow water and bumped her head.

Jesse and Caleb Une were stillborn twins that were born prematurely.

Kessandra Eloise Troyian Une was her grandmother. Grandmother Kessie died when Midii was seven, but she still had some memories of the old woman. Gram Kessie would have cookies for the little Une children that came to visit Grandma and Grandpa's house for the holidays. Whenever they take a bath and wash their hair, Gram Kessie would have a large towel to dry their hair by the large fireplace in the living room. Midii could remember the light scent of baby powder and lavender that Gram Kessie would always have in the house. Gram would also tell her and her brothers all sorts of lovely fairy tales when she tucked them into bed. "What shall I read for you tonight?" she'd ask.

"Jack in the Beanstalk!" cried Alexi, who was nine.

"No! I want Robin Hood!" protested Rudolph, who was six.

Devon was only one and could not possibly have any preferences. "I want the Little Mermaid," said Midii, who was five.

"Not that!" groaned Alexi.

"Now, now. I already read you those stories, boys. I think it's Midii's turn to pick the story, so I'll tell you the tale of the Little Mermaid."

The boys pouted, but complied with their little sister's request. Gram Kessie knew every story by heart and always told them in her own way. The real story was too much for little children so she retold them. "Once there was a deep sea that was filled with fish. There were more fish in the sea than there were people in the world. And in this watery world, there lived merpeople. They had tails like fish and bodies like people. There was a kingdom of merpeople."

"Triton was there kingdom and he had many beautiful daughters. One in particular was known as the most beautiful of the girls. Her name was Calypso. Calypso was loved in the sea kingdom, but she was unhappy because she was curious about the surface world. 'Don't go up there! There are humans that will hunt after you!' People had said. She didn't care because there was something about humans that fascinated her."

The children would start to fall asleep from her soothing voice, except Midii, who was enthralled with the story.

"One day, she swam to the surface and saw a large ship. She made her way to the ship and watched the human men dancing and singing. There she saw a handsome human. He played a flute so sweetly that she sang along quietly. Her voice was like a siren that could lure men away from the land. She was in love with the handsome man with the flute. She soon learned he was Prince Alan, who lived in the castle that overlooked the sea, her sea."

Midii would imagine that she was the mermaid Princess Calypso.

"She knew that one song from her would lure Alan to her, but she didn't want to because she knew that he would drown and she would lose him. Suddenly a storm appeared in the horizon. The waves grew huge and swept over the deck of the ship. The prince fell overboard and was lost in the torrent of the sea. Calypso saw her beloved prince in the crashing waves and dove to save him. When she pulled him to land, the storm had faded. She looked at his handsome face and felt his chest for his heartbeat. 'Are you alright my prince?' That voice woke him. He slowly opened his eyes to see her face, but voices on the beach caused her to flee. Before he could sit up, Calypso had already fled into the sea. A fisherman on the beach helped the prince to his feet. Alan stared along the beach, but the beautiful maiden who saved him was gone."

"She was lovelorn and decided to become human herself. The sea witch was the only one who could help her. 'I will give you the ability to change into a human. If he does not declare his love for you then you will die.' Calypso was frightened, but she wanted to be near her handsome prince so she agreed."

The boys would be asleep, but Midii would beg for more.

"The price was her voice. She couldn't speak. Her voice would not return to her until she is dying. So she had to charm the prince with her beautiful soul. She grew legs and found herself on the beach. Alan was walking and looking out into the waters that nearly killed him. He turned to see a beautiful maiden on the beach. Lonely and needed help, for she was not yet sturdy on her human legs. As he walked closer to her, he saw she looked just like the girl who saved him. 'Let me help you.' He wrapped an arm around her to hold her up so she could steady herself. She was about to thank him, but no sound came from her throat. Alan was disappointed that this girl had no voice, for he hoped she was the one he was looking for."

Midii felt sad for the princess. She would be sad if her prince couldn't hear her voice.

"He spent time with Calypso. He taught her about the human world. He showed her a book of stories written by Ancient Greeks and there was a goddess named Calypso. When she heard her name, she gestured at the name, and Alan realized that Calypso was her name. They spent many weeks together, and she loved him more and more. But her heart was broken when she learned that he was going to marry another princess who looked similar to her, but didn't have a voice that was as pretty. Calypso sat in gardens behind the castle. Suddenly she heard men speaking. 'You will shoot the prince tonight when he is on the beach with his friends and his fiancé.' Calypso feared for Alan."

Gram Kessie looked over at Midii who was still wide-awake. Gram smiled and continued the story.

"At the party, Calypso kept her eyes opened. She must find a way to warn Alan, but there was nothing she could do. Alan was talking to his friends, when she saw an arrow in the corner of her eye. She turned to see that the flying arrow was heading straight for him. She quickly moved to him and was straight in the arrow's path. Women screamed and Alan's friends raced to capture the assassin. Alan cradled poor little Calypso in his arms. 'My brave little friend. You have saved me.' She was breathing shallowly, and she could feel her voice coming back to her. She gasped heavily as she said 'Are you alright my prince?' Those words, the sound of her voice shocked Alan as he realized that she was the one who saved him. 'Oh my poor Calypso. It was you all along.' There was no sound coming from her. He felt a warm glow over her. Everyone was shocked to see that her human legs turned into a fish tail. 'A mermaid?' asked one woman. 'Of course!' cried an old sailor. 'Mermaids can save people from drowning.'"

Midii began crying for her poor Calypso. Gram Kessie gave her a tissue and told her that the story was not yet over.

"The water of the sea churned and bubbled. A beautiful lady in a flowing gone rose from the sea. 'I am the spirit of the sea, guardian of the merpeople. Because Calypso has been kind despite her sorrow, I will reward her.' Another light glowed over Calypso. Her tail turned back into human legs and her wound was healed. The Spirit of the Sea had vanished and Calypso smiled at Alan. They were married and lived happily ever after."

The crying had made Midii tired and she fell soundly asleep.

Midii loved that version of the little mermaid. Not just because it was a happy ending, but also because it was told by her grandmother. Her mind wandered back to the days when she first met Trowa. She laughed at how she once thought that Trowa was her Prince Alan. "We despise each other. I envy his ability not to feel anything. And he doesn't trust me because I'm still a spy." She looked at the grave of her brother Devon. The brother she cared for so carefully the last two years of his life, after their father died. "It's funny Devon. I've always had a soft spot for Trowa. Now we hate each other. Who would have thought that? We'd make an odd couple, huh. I'm sure you'd laugh along with me. I never could forget him. I always wondered what happened to him, envying him. He feels neither pain, nor anger. His hatred for me is because he is protective of his friends and Cathy. Do you think he's right?" she said to Devon's grave. Midii placed flowers on the graves and walked away.

A.C. Colony 192

Midii had spent a long time wandering around trying to make a place for herself. She needed money and she saw that the circus was in town. Midii had found herself doing more spy work. After all, no one would anticipate a child being a spy. She was able to find more information for the Alliance than many spies could. After all, she was able to eavesdrop better and being young, she was a fast learner of different spying maneuvers. Even though she was only 13 and spying for three years, she was more expert than people spying within the same period.

She needed a cover to hide herself in her latest mission. She quickly took her place in the circus. The smell of fresh popcorn, the laughter in the air, and the flashing lights of rides were everywhere as she walked through the circus grounds. Midii missed these simple pleasures. Father was sick and Devon was too. They needed money for medicine and barely any food. Midii worked as a spy for the money. She got $700 a week. That barely covered expenses. The Alliance paid for the medical bills, but they still had debts. This mission promised an extra $10 a week after success. Her mission was to find out rebel movement in the colony. By working for the circus, she could go to different locations and had an escape. She wandered the circus to explore the delights it had. She stared at the horses that were being fed. "Hi," said a voice.

Midii turned to see a girl with curly, reddish-brown hair. They were bouncing with the movement of her head. "Hi," replied Midii.

"You like horses?"

"Sorta. I have hardly seen them now."

"You seem a little sad. Why is that?"

"I need a job. I'm the only one in the family that is healthy enough to work." Midii wasn't sure why she was willing to talk to this girl, but something of this girl in the blue costume seemed trustworthy.

"Really? We need people for different things. We need someone to do the horse riding tricks, trapeze act, and other side jobs," replied the girl.

"I can clean things," answered Midii.

"Actually, we need a person to help with the horse grooming."

"I can do that."

"Come on." Midii followed the girl, who led Midii to the ringmaster. After a few minutes of an interview, Midii was hired on a trial basis of three days. If she did well, then she got the job.

"Thank you Miss," said Midii gratefully.

"Just call me Cathy."

"And I'm Midii."

Midii had found a friend in Catherine Bloom. She had another girl to help her with all sorts of problems she could never really talk to her father about. Something was in Catherine that opened Midii to her. And Catherine in turn found a kind soul, lost in everlasting sorrow. Whatever it was between these two girls, there was that magic of perception between these two. Catherine led the way to clarity, and Midii was the student who slowly followed behind. "Cathy?"

"Yes, Midii?"

"Am I your friend?"

"Of course, Midii! Nothing will ever come between us. I'll never leave you to suffer alone. I won't be far away."

"Do you mean it? No matter what happens or what I've done, you'll never hate me?"

Catherine smiled gracefully. "I see that you are lost. Lost in the world, with no one to lean on for strength. You have burdens that I can never see or feel. But you know what?"

Midii only looked at her new best friend with puzzlement. "What?"

"I know that you have a journey to pursue. I won't be the one to hold you back or stop you. Life has something in stored for you and don't fight it. Don't fight the world; fight the doubt in yourself Midii. The world has evil, and vice. Just don't forget to look for the beauty that it has," Catherine said.

"I..." began Midii.

"Cathy! You're on in five minutes!" called a man.

"Alright!" Catherine turned to Midii. "I'm sorry. I have to go now."

"That's alright." Midii only smiled as Cathy walked into towards the big top from the trailer that they were sitting in front of. Midii began to wonder, 'Will you really stand by me? Even if I'm responsible for the deaths of hundreds?'

The Alliance base that she reported to was seven miles from where the circus was set up. She was able to enter the base with complete authority by the commanding officer she reported to. She stepped down the foreboding, intimidating hallway towards the conference room, where she made her report before two other agents, and three commanding officers, including the spy headmaster, who coordinated the missions of his spies. Lieutenant Hayes was a serious, brooding man of nearly sixty, who had the ability of bullying and intimidating those who worked for him. Midii refused to let the damn bastard control her free will.

She entered the room to see Aloysius McKenrich, Colin Mersac, Lady Une, Treize Khushrenada and Lieutenant Hayes. She saluted in proper military fashion. "This, Mister Treize and Colonel Une, is Miss Midii Une. She is one of my best agents."

"Impressive," commented Treize in his cool collected manner. Hayes gave a sideways glance when Treize wasn't looking. The injustice of an 18-year-old being a colonel, and a sixty-year-old man still stuck being a lieutenant. Treize looked at Midii as though he was inspecting meat at the butcher's. "How many mission has Miss Une completed?"

"Twenty out of twenty. Without fail." Hayes couldn't stand Midii, but he only tolerated her because of her success and ability. Otherwise, he would have had her discharged months ago.

"Impressive," was Treize's comment. "I have never seen or heard of an agent so young do so well.

"Of course Mr. Treize, but you are an example of how age doesn't affect ability," said Lady Une. It was clear to everyone in the room that there was a certain dance between Une and Treize. She was readily able to compliment his ability, and he was always most genteel towards her.

"Miss Une, do tell us the status of your mission," continued Treize.

"My mission is to report the movement of rebels in the vicinity of this colony."

"Any progress reports on their movement?"

"Very little sir. Only sketchy, unconfirmed rumors."

"Such as?" Treize arched his eyebrow in interest.

"There are rumors going on that there is someone within the Alliance that may be aiding the rebels."

"Indeed?" Treize looked concerned over the situation. "Are there any speculations of this traitor's identity?"

"No. Only that it is an officer in the Alliance military. Though..." trailed Midii.

"Continue," replied Treize.

"I have heard that this officer is of some prominence within the organization. I doubt that this person would be foolish enough to get caught, sir."

Treize nodded. "Yes, Miss Une. No one of high rank would be so careless as to make an obvious trail. However, no matter how clever the person, they are bound to slip up. Once he/she does, they will be dealt with firmly, and without fail."

"I have no doubt sir," nodded Midii.

"Is that all?" replied Hayes, curtly.

"Yes." Midii then sat down to listen to the other reports.

"Get her!!" shouted a man as a barrage of bullets narrowly hit Midii.

"Damn it!" She was sent to steal information from the rebel headquarters on the colony. A rebel caught her. In the struggle, he managed to inform the others of her presence and she soon had ten men with assault rifles on her tail.

With a burst of adrenaline, she raced towards the exit. Whiiiip! Piiiinnnnngggg! Whistled a bullet that nearly hit her in the head. She ducked behind a building. "God! What am I gonna do?" She fumbled around in her backpack. She found an explosive. She set the detonator and hurled it hard. It was a silver grenade that had a timer on it. The grenade was oval and silver. It spun when it hit the ground. Beep... beep... beep... It ticked the fifteen seconds.

"Shit!" shouted the men as they try to run away. Beep... four... beep... three... beep... two... beep... one... BOOOOOMMMMMM!!!!! Midii ran for her life as the smoke of the detonation sounded.

After nearly an hour of running, and stopping for her breath, she got back to the circus camp. She snuck into the trailer that Cathy let her stay in. She quietly panted and began to change into her pajamas. It was 1:29 am and Cathy was asleep. Midii looked over at her friend, "I have to leave soon. The rebels know about me, and it's a matter of time when they find me here. You guys will be here another week, and they'll find me by then if I don't leave."

"You're leaving?" Catherine asked sadly.

"I'm afraid so."

"I guess this is your last day."

"It is." Both girls grew quiet for a moment. Midii silently wondered what would happen next. "I seem to have lost my ability. I don't know what to say."

Catherine smiled. "Me too. You know, I think you're my first best friend. I just wanted to tell you that before you go. I don't want you to leave thinking that I never thought highly of you. I won't forget you. I mean, you're very special, and you have been the best friend I've been looking for. Ya know?"

Midii had to smile. Though her mission had nearly failed with her life as the price, she found herself a life-long friend in Catherine Bloom. "One day, I'll come back. We'll meet again."

"Really? You promise me?"

"Of course. These have been the best four months of my life. Going all over the colonies with you, and seeing things I've never seen before. I'm never going to forget this... or you." The two girls hugged good-bye.

A.C. 194

Midii waited in the dark alley. She was supposed to meet a strange person who was offering a great deal of money for Midii to work as a spy. "Hello Midii."

"So what have you got for me?"

The girl smiled. "You like to get down to business don't you?"

"I never like to delay in matters of money and business."

"I suppose being responsible for the downfalls and deaths of people is ALL there is for you in life." Midii only frown and stayed quiet. "I see that you have issues with that."

"What DO you want?"

"Simply this. I want you to join this team that I'm the leader of."

"What is there about this group of yours that is SO great?"

"Everyone in it has desires and wants. If you do your part and make the mission succeed, you get what you want," the girl replied simply.

"What if what I want is something that NO one can give me?"

The girl smiled. "You want absolution for the deaths you caused and the betrayals you've committed."

"How would you know that?"

The girl tapped on her head. "I can hear your thoughts."

"How would you give me absolution?" Midii asked with feeling in her voice.

The girl simply smiled again. "Why... the way you want. You feel that by dying and being punished, you will be forgiven for what you've done. Well, if it's death you want, then we will give it to you. We will find a way for you to be forgiven, by the one person you have been feeling so guilty about."

"How can you do that? He's probably dead already."

"You know this boy well enough to know that he doesn't die SO easily. You know in your heart he's still alive. You just need to find him. Just stick with me and you'll get what you want. The chance to bring closure with what you've done to the boy."

"Fine. Under two conditions."

"What's that?"

"You will find a way to provide my family everything they need as long as they are still alive and well."

"And the second?"

"What is your name?"

"I was once Kari, but I'm only known as Avatar."

"Dad? Dad?" Midii shook her father. He didn't move at all. Alexi and Rudolph sat by in sorrow. Devon was in the hospital for Donavan's Fever, a disease discovered A.C. 141 by Dr. Wayne Donavan. It was a blood disease that had fever as a symptom.

"He's gone, Midii." Alexi wrapped his arms around his sister. "He's gone."

"Damn it! Why didn't you tell me how sick he was?" Midii was infuriated. She came home the day before when Alexi told her that their father was dying.

"It's really hard to find you," retorted Rudolph.

"I don't need to here this from you Rudy!" she screamed. "I worked hard to get money home. I almost got killed seven times already, and I don't need YOU to tell me how to feel about things. Do you understand?" she nearly broke down in tears from the frustration.

Midii cried into Alexi's chest. "Rude? Why did you have to do that?"

Rudolph looked a little sad as he realized what he did. "Look Midii, I'm sorry. I really am."

Midii looked up and simply left the room. A girl now almost 15. Alexi had already left school and was making money in a factory that made space shuttles. He got some decent wages, but Midii was the main bread winner of the family. Risking her neck out for an extra $200 a week for the family. The expenses came from Devon's medical care. It didn't matter because Devon was worth the expenses. Devon was someone worth saving, even if was meant to die anyway. The funeral was difficult, and Devon was too sick to leave. "How was the funeral?"

"I guess it was lovely. If you can call a funeral that," replied Midii.

"Please don't say that. I don't want you to think that when I must go."

"Oh now, don't say that!" Midii nearly shouted.

Devon only shook his head. "Oh Mid, don't try to humor me. Even I know that I'm dying. It won't be long. I know it won't. There is nothing much left for me. There's little time. The clock is ticking and it's just a matter of time when I have to go."

"I wish you wouldn't talk about death right now. Not today," sighed Midii as she looked at her baby brother.

Devon only looked at her. "I'm sorry. But just one thing?"

"Sure."

"No matter what happens, never forget who you really are. You're the nice, loving girl that's been taking care of me since I was little. I don't want you to change from that. Ever. Promise?" He held out his pinkie.

"I pinkie swear."

A.C. 197-Present

"I'm a lousy sister, aren't I, Devon?"

"My poor Midii," Devon appeared to her like a ghost in her mind.

"I know what I have to do now." She left the cemetery.

Author's Notes:

What is Midii up to? What is the next move of the other Raptures? What will the pilots do? Find out next time in Chapter 15!

This is a chapter that's about the Senshi and the pilots meeting again. Now, enjoy.

Gundam Wing: Raptures of Paradise

Chapter 15---------- Ghosts and Goblins

By Sailor Celaeno

"Guess what today is?" asked Mina with excitement.

"October 31?" asked Amara matter-of-factly.

"That's Halloween," replied Lita.

"Uh-huh, and that means there are parties!" squealed Mina.

Everyone except Rini shook their heads. "Even after a thousand years, Mina is as bubbly as she was in the 20th century," commented Raye.

"Oh, stop it! Anyways, with a night like this, those Raptures could try to attack. After all, with kids and people dressed up and everything, they could slip in without being noticed."

"You know, Mina has a point there," interjected Amy.

"I guess so. But where are we getting costumes at last minute?" asked Michelle.

"I think I can help with that," said a voice.

"Nova?" They all turned to face Nova.

"I got some invitations from Quatre and Dorothy for Mister Winner's Halloween party. Many important people will be there. Luckily, Quatre and Dorothy are friends of mine, so I can get invitations for the rest of you," Nova entered the living room. The senshi stayed in her mansion and she handed each one an invitation.

"That's great, but about those costumes..." Rini trailed.

"I have this book of costumes. I can get them delivered by five, so you have time to change for the party at 7:30." She laid out a book of costumes for them.

"Say I like this," said Rini. She pointed at one picture.

Amy giggled a little. "How appropriate Rini."

They flipped pages. "Hey! That's a nice costume. I think I'll wear that!" said Hotaru.

"Really? Well luckily we have Diana here. She can go with you," said Amara.

"What?" asked Diana. She looked at the costume Hotaru wanted. "I guess so."

Raye and Mina snickered at another picture. "Can you imagine us dressed up like that?" laughed Mina.

"You know, why not? We look kinda like that. Although SHE is taller than me," replied Raye.

"Are you serious? You want to wear that? Please tell me you're kidding!"

Raye thought about how cool she would look dressed like that, and Mina would be perfect in the other costume. Raye needed some cajoling. "Oh sure Mina. You're just saying that because you know that you don't have the figure to wear that outfit now." Mina's face was turning red. Everyone else was giggling because they realized Raye's plan. "Meanwhile, having two kids has given me the PERFECT figure to wear THAT costume." She pointed at the outfit she wanted.

"FINE! I'll where that one. Just to prove that I have a great figure, worthy of the love goddess!"

Amy saw a picture and smiled. "I like that one. It's not too flashy." Everyone looked also.

"That's nice. You can dance really easily in that," said Raye.

"That's a pretty colored skirt," said Rini.

"I'm glad everyone liked my choice."

"How about these two for us?" pointed Amara.

Michelle took a look and smiled. "Perfect."

"I want this," Lita looked at another picture.

"Wow, Lita. I bet Ken would LOVE to see you wear that," teased Mina.

Lita blushed, "Actually, I was thinking of taking that back with us." Everyone had goofy grins on their faces, which only made her blush more.

"What are you and Trista wearing?" Amy asked Nova.

"Don't worry, you two will see."

"Well, well. Looks like there is going to be a party tonight," sneered Tempest.

"Yes," replied Avatar.

"Hm. You WILL be crashing it won't you?"

"Of course Tempest. There is no doubt about that. In fact it's part of our plan. Agent Une will go separately."

"I see your plan. It is well thought out. Don't underestimate the senshi. They will be back to spoil our plans, so make sure they don't ruin things."

"AH, but on the contrary. There interference will help us."

"Are you sure?"

"Yes."

"You had better NOT fail."

Some of the guests already arrived at the Winner mansion. Quatre was dressed up as an Arabian prince. Dorothy dressed like his princess and greeted the guests with him. He felt a little warm and nervous when he saw how well Dorothy fit into the tight silk costume that she bought. As he let her into the mission before the party started, she teasingly blew into his ear. He quivered with excitement from the cool breeze she gave him. The door opened and he saw Duo and Hilde appear. "Hey Quatre!" called Duo.

"Duo! Wow, nice costume. Who are you two suppose to be?"

"She's Cinderella and I'm Prince Charming." Duo was dressed in a very distinguished, royal blue, ball tux with fake gold cufflinks and tassels. He had black shoes, and wore white gloves. At his arm was Hilde dressed in an ice blue gown, with pale clue chiffon. She wore a silver-colored tiara, and plastic, clear shoes.

"You two look great! Come on in." Quatre led them into the large ballroom where there were twenty people already talking and dancing away to the orchestra music.

"Real classy Quatre. Nothing less, eh?" asked Duo.

"Hey, I do have plenty of important guests. Besides the real fun is after 11 tonight," smiled Quatre.

"Oooh Quatre you naughty boy! What you got planned?" asked Duo.

"It'll just be a few special guests." Quatre left to greet more guests.

"A few guests? I'm dying to find out who these people are!" whispered Duo to Hilde.

"He meant us and the other pilots!"

"If it was just our little group, then why would he be so mysterious about this secret late party he's having and who's going to stay for it?"

Hilde realized that and also wondered, when she heard some familiar voices. "Hilde!"

Duo and Hilde saw Sally and Wufei appear. "Wow, you look very cool! Who are you dressed as?" asked Duo.

"If you must know, I'm Shang, and Sally's Mulan," said Wufei. Wufei's hair was slicked back as usual. He wore a period Chinese military uniform with a his katana at his side. Sally had a similar outfit, though less heavily armored than Wufei. She had a red ribbon to tie her hair back.

"He's just annoyed because it took a long time for him to get his costume on," smirked Sally.

"Must we get into THAT?"

Before Sally could answer some more familiar faces appeared. "Catherine! Trowa!" They immediately recognized the siblings because they were wearing their circus outfits for the party.

"I hope we're not late! Our act ended late tonight, so we couldn't leave as early as we were planning," explained Catherine.

"It's okay Cathy," assured Hilde. "We've only gotten here in the last five minutes ourselves."

"Oh alright then," sighed Catherine in relief.

"I told you, you didn't need to worry," said Trowa.

Everyone was amazed when five more people appeared. A blond girl appeared, with sparkles in her hair, and she wore a beautiful Roman toga. Her hair was curled and it was wavy. The tendrils flowed down her face in a way that emphasized how nice her face was. Trowa saw her immediately. He couldn't believe Midii was here, and dressed up like that. Catherine ran up to her friend. "Oh Midii, I can't believe how beautiful you look!"

"Thanks! I wasn't sure if I looked right."

"You look great. Not a bad Venus impersonation." The two girls went to the small group of pilots. "Doesn't she look nice Trowa?"

Trowa stared at Midii. He had to admit, she looked attractive. But attractive or not, she was dangerous. After all, she is a spy and didn't do things without a reason. He had a suspicion that she wasn't just here to have fun. "She's pretty," he said in his bland tone.

"Thank you Trowa."

The Peacecrafts and Heero appeared. Milliardo was dressed like a knight when he isn't in armor, and Lucrezia wore a lady-in-waiting dress. Relena had similar dress on, except it was more elaborate. Heero had an outfit that came right out of "Prince of Thieves". It wasn't hard to guess who they were dressed as. Quatre and Dorothy reentered the ballroom and left Rashid to greet the guests. "How's the party so far?"

"Really great!" Duo was already eating hors d'ourves.

"Oh Duo," Quatre shook his head amusingly. Quatre turned to notice that eight people entered the party. The others noticed Quatre and turned to see a rabbit, witch, a flapper, Xena and Gabrielle, a gypsy, a phantom, and a pretty girl.

"Who do you think they are?" asked Duo.

"They might be the friends that Nova wanted to bring," replied Dorothy. She was told what Nova and Trista would be wearing, and none of these people fit the description of their costumes.

"I have a strange feeling about those eight," said Trowa.

"Yes, I think there is something strange about them," added Milliardo.

"They ARE here for a reason, and I have a strong feelings something big is going to happen.

It was nearly eight and everyone was dancing and having a good time. There were lively conversations all over the room. The guests were dressed in all different colors and the happiness of the event filled the room. The crowd bustled with life and pleasure. The pilots kept watching the eight strangers out of the corners of their eyes. They failed to notice the REAL threat.

Rashid appeared. "Announcing, Miss Rokureno and Miss Meioh." Nova and Trista appeared in their costumes.

"Those would be those special guests," whispered Quatre to the pilots.

"Them?" Duo stared at the two women that entered the room. They saw a geisha, and a fairy.

"Sorry, I hope we're not too late," said the fairy.

"You're just in time!" shouted Avatar as she began to attack. The pilots took out the guns they hid in their clothes and began firing. The other guests fled the room.

"Party crasher!" shouted Duo as he began firing. He aimed his gun at them. They did back flips and avoided the shots.

"You'll have to do better than that Gundam pilot!" shouted Flamethrower.

"You'll face the wrath of Shinigami!" Hilde ducked behind a pillar and began firing her gun as well. It seemed everyone except Relena, Midii and Dorothy were armed. They tried firing back, but the Raptures were undefeatable. The men that came along turned into Negaverse monsters that began stealing energy from the guests.

"They're too strong! And they're stealing energy from the guests!" shouted Quatre as he narrowly escaped Flamethrower's fire.

"I'll never give up to some weakling women!"

"That was a smart thing to say," Sally replied, when the Raptures began attacking even more fiercely.

In twenty seconds they heard, "Moon... Prism... Power!" A pink light flashed. The pilots saw the little girl in the rabbit costume turn into Sailor Chibi Moon. Her seven companions reluctantly transformed.

"Them again?" asked Wufei.

"You betcha Dragon man," replied Sailor Jupiter.

"Dragon? How did she know about that?" wondered Wufei as he fired at the four Raptures. They had a small army of men to help them.

"Jupiter... Oak... Evolution!" Leaves began flying through the air. They were scratched, but it didn't stop them.

"Uranus... World... Shaking!" A huge ball of energy crashed into the ground. It knocked them off their feet. However, Avatar regained her footing with some tricky gymnastics. She began using her telekinesis to blast Uranus against a wall.

"Uranus!" called Sailor Neptune. She glared at Avatar. "Neptune... Violin... Tide!" A huge rush of water aimed straight at Avatar. When the water settled, Avatar was still standing.

"Clever trick Neptune. However, I can create telepathic force fields to protect myself."

"You may have a force field, but I have an attack that it can't protect you from!" shouted Sailor Mercury.

"What?"

"Mercury... Bubbles... Blast!" The room filled with fog.

"What?" the Raptures screeched trying to find their way through the fog.

"Hurry, you have to get these people out of here," said Sailor Venus to the pilots and their dates. Seeing as there was little else they could do, they complied, and quickly took the unconscious victims outside.

The fog began to fade. "Try this!" screeched Flamethrower as she sprayed her fire at the scouts. They scrambled to avoid the scorching heat.

"Neptune... Tsunami... Wave!" Neptune used her most powerful attack. It was like two Deep Submerges and two Violin Tides combined in one powerful blast. The wall of water came flying straight at the Raptures. Flamethrower was frozen in her tracks. Staring frightened and hypnotically at the oncoming wave. Like a deer at the headlights of the car, she stood there, gawking as she was pummeled by the ocean swell.

"Move it!!!" shrieked Quint.

Flamethrower snapped out her trance, but she was pounded fiercely by the water attack. She was knocked unconscious, nearly drowning in the deluge. The other three scrambled to carry an unconscious Flamethrower from the mansion.

The guests went to the hospital to make sure they were okay. The pilots stayed behind to interrogate the senshi. Nova and Trista had gone to the hospital as well because they sustained injuries. The senshi de-transformed into their Halloween costumes. Duo took it upon himself to start the inquest. "Who are you?"

They only looked amongst themselves. "We may as well tell them," sighed the rabbit.

"She's right," agreed Gabrielle. "They already know we're senshi, we may as well fess up. Gabrielle pulled a red ribbon out of her back pocket. "You might recognize me better with this one." She tied the bow in her hair.

The pilots' eyes nearly popped out of their heads. "It's you! Mina?" asked Quatre.

Mina smiled. "Surprised to see me?"

"Yeah, you're... well... a little older than the last time..." started Quatre.

"We come from a thousand years in the future of OUR universe." The gypsy tied her hair in her trademark ponytail.

"Lita!" shouted Duo. He remembered that even though they were in the middle of a war against the Negaverse, Lita managed to find a way to keep them well nourished.

"I see you boys have done well for yourselves," said the Phantom of the Opera.

"Amara and Michelle," replied Trowa. "Hotaru and Amy."

"Who can forget Raye?" asked Wufei sarcastically. He and Raye had heated arguments and more than once had Chad ready to fight him for Raye's honor.

"But who's that?" Milliardo meant Rini.

"Oh yeah, you never met her," replied Mina.

"We'd like to introduce you to her royal highness, Princess Serena," replied Amy. Rini curtsied to the pilots.

"Princess Serena?" the pilots only looked at each other in confusion.

"Serena? Isn't Serena that girl you guys were talking about?" asked Hilde.

"Serena turned into a young pink-haired girl?" Quatre asked in confusion.

"NO! Silly Quatre!" laughed Hotaru.

"Princess Serena is Meatball Head's daughter. Isn't she?" asked Wufei. He remembered how everyone called Serena Meatball Head.

"We can all guess who the father is," Duo commented as though he was telling a joke.

"Well, you can't call her meatball head anymore. She is Her Royal Majesty Neo-Queen Serenity. The sovereign of Crystal Tokyo and Earth," replied Raye.

"Impressive," smiled Dorothy. The pilots knew it was a reference to Relena being the Queen of the World.

"What are you senshi doing in this universe?" asked Quatre.

"Those Raptures are senshi business. We must deal with them ourselves," replied Amara cryptically.

"Why?" asked Relena, who was well versed in the senshi from the pilots.

"The Negaverse has infiltrated this universe. Our mission is to deal with them before they cause serious damage," replied Lita.

"You certainly are more powerful now," noted Quatre who saw how wet his house had gotten from Neptune's attack.

"The Negaverse are sending more powerful agents. These Raptures are capable of much greater power than they've used. There's no doubt in our minds that they are just warming up," said Hotaru.

"Warming up?" gasped Duo.

"That doesn't sound good," Sally said. She shook her head. "This is serious. They stole lots of energy from those important people. Luckily it wasn't too much, otherwise they would be dead. What would this Negaverse want with our universe?"

"That's what we're here to find out. Pluto and Celaeno have only given us sketchy details. All we know is, that they want this universe. It's part of their strategy to attack OUR universe again," replied Amy.

"What exactly happened in your universe?" asked Quatre. "I think maybe is we knew what happened in your universe, it could explain why they are here, in our universe."

"After we returned to fix the time loop we caused, we defeat Hecate. However, the celebrations didn't last long," said Mina.

"Almost a year later, a new enemy appeared. There was an ancient prophecy that said that the Earth would be destroyed in an Eternal Winter. All life would die, including the senshi and the power of the Silver crystal. Once they are dead, the universe would be at the mercy of the Negaverse. The senshi, even with our stronger powers, couldn't defeat her. Our only hope was to use the power of Eternal Winter," continued Raye.

"Eternal Winter? Why would you use the power that could kill you all?" asked Trowa.

"There was a special child born one thousand years ago from when you first met us. She was destined to be the one to bring on the Eternal Winter. With such power under Negaverse control, the child could be used for evil. So the child's mother tried to suppress the dark side of the child to prevent the prophecy from being fulfilled," continued Hotaru.

"However, the dark side within the human cannot be suppressed for long. There was a darkness, the temptation to use power for evil uses. The child's inner struggle with her own darkness caused her two split into two people. She was no longer one child, but twin sisters. Hecate and Proserpine. And her mother was Sailor Celaeno," added Mina.

"You mean that... Sailor Celaeno was trying to defeat her own daughter?" asked Relena.

"Yes. The dark half of the little child. Hecate grew so powerful that she was locked away inside a locket called the Persephone locket. Proserpine was left to train her power to save people, meanwhile Hecate was trapped in the locket. When the Negaverse was attacking the Solar Systems throughout the Universe, Sailor Celaeno knew that it was dangerous to leave Proserpine where she could be taken," replied Mina.

"Proserpine didn't want to abandon her sister Hecate, even if she was an evil being. So Proserpine chose to hide in the locket with her sister. So they stayed inside. Whoever had the locket had power of the two sisters, the harbingers of Eternal Winter," said Michelle.

"So what does this have to do with now?" asked Wufei.

"Simply this. We needed to call upon the power of these twins in order to defeat the new enemy, Queen Opal. Our friend, Molly, was chosen as the one who would use the Persephone Locket to stop her. She realized that in order to save the Earth, she had to place us all in suspended animation. The Eternal Winter... in order to release the true power of the locket, which was to reseal the Negaverse in its prison dimension," said Amy.

"So by fulfilling the prophecy, the Earth was saved and the Negaverse was defeated. Then what happened?" asked Quatre who was fascinated by the tale.

"Molly also trapped herself inside the prison dimension in order to make sure that Negaverse stayed inside. To make a long story short, the dark power of the Locket corrupted the good nature of Molly. Neo-Queen Serenity healed her, and the locket was resealed again. However..." trailed Amara.

"What?" asked Heero. He had every right to be concerned when she said 'however'.

"Someone stole the locket. Whoever has it can cause great destruction in this universe. Celaeno was able to trail the thief to someone in this universe," replied Amara.

"How can someone from this universe know enough about the locket to steal it?" asked Hilde.

"Unless..." said Catherine.

"Unless... someone from the Negaverse told them!" concluded Sally.

"That would mean somehow the Negaverse got into this universe. But that still doesn't explain what they want. And what the Raptures have to do with all of this," replied Milliardo.

"The point is, is that at least we know what is going on," said Lucrezia.

"Do you think we could work together on this? I mean, these Gundam pilots know about this universe pretty well. They could help us," replied Rini.

"Princess Serena is right. We could help you," reasoned Relena.

"I'm sorry Miss Relena. I'm sorry Small Lady, but we can't have the pilots get involved. It wouldn't be safe, or fair to drag them into this mess," said Amara.

"It's too late for that. Besides, we got dragged into the mess already. Long before you senshi showed yourselves in this universe," replied Wufei.

Michelle looked at Amara pleadingly. "I think we should. Wufei is right. Besides, what have we got to lose? The Raptures are people from the universe. We have to find out how the Negaverse got here to begin with. Not to mention we have to find the locket."

Amara looked at everyone else. They were all determined to join with the pilots to solve this mystery. "I guess we can do that."

Trowa looked around the room and noticed that Midii had vanished from the room. "Where did you go?"

Midii was in a car driving to the Raptures headquarters. She realized there was more to Tempest and this Negaverse than she was EVER told. They were a dangerous organization. She began to wonder. "What DO you want with us? You want slaves and soldiers to fight for you in this alternate universe, but what do you really want with us? Why do you need the Raptures to do the dirty work for you?" She stared at the road ahead of her. Uncertain of what path of destiny to take. "Damn you! I don't even know which side is the right one."

Author's Note:

What will Midii do with this new information? Will she betray the pilots and reveal what she knows? What will happen next? Chapter 16 is coming next.

This is a chapter that's about the origin of Flamethrower. Now, enjoy.

Gundam Wing: Raptures of Paradise

Chapter 16---------- Lady Dragon Sky Fire and Tsunami god

By Sailor Celaeno

I was born in a small seaside village. True, I lived on a colony and the sea is an artificially made sea, but it is still a sea. It fits the definition of a sea. I was born A.C. 175, in the village of Ping Long of cluster L5. My name is Sky Fire, or that's what it means in English. Miss Dragon is what I would be called. Lung Teen Faw. 'A beautiful name' my mother said. Dragon is the name of great strength. I never forgot the words she said to me. I never forgot the words my father said. "Daughter, you are a child of the Dragon family. An ancient lineage that goes back many generations. Blest by the great Dragon, our ancestors were born and we have their name to live up to. Do all with honor and pride of your name. We were emperors and great leaders. We shall be great again." And that is the vow I kept. Even when I died, I kept the vow of greatness, the vow of power.

"Flamethrower! Flamethrower!" said Quint.

"Ugghhh!" groaned Flamethrower as she regained consciousness.

"Good, you're awake. We were afraid, we'd have to take you to the hospital," sighed Cat.

"An ocean couldn't kill me. A mere tidal wave won't stop me," scoffed Flamethrower.

Quint only shook her head. Cat looked sadly at the whole scene. Avatar remained silent until Midii entered the room. "What did you learn?"

"The senshi and the pilots are uniting to stop us," she reported.

"Shit!" cried Quint in disgust. "We have those damn pilots at our asses!" Quint paced the room nervously. "What are we gonna do Avatar?"

Avatar only looked at her for a moment. "We will need to take advantage of the situation."

"How? How the fuck are we going to do that????!!!" shouted Quint.

"Calm yourself Quint. You should know by now that I always have a plan up my sleeve. Never has there been a time, where I didn't have a backup plan in case things get screwed up."

"What exactly do you have in mind?" asked Flamethrower.

"Next week, the representative of Pleiades will be speaking at a convention center. She will be trying to get the representatives of the colonies to band together with their resources for the sake of scientific expansion of the universe."

"So?" asked Quint.

"Many important dignitaries will be there. Including Miss Relena Peacecraft."

"I'm lost. Relena is not important in the mission. Our mission isn't to kill people," replied Cat.

"AH, but the pilots don't know that. We're going to have attempted assassinations on those people. It will throw them off to the real purpose of our mission. They'll assume that our mission is kill off politicians that could prevent the Negaverse from taking over. Little do they realize, our real mission is to capture energy released from anger and fear. The fear and panic we cause at that seminar shall be a great deal more energy than tonight," Avatar's eyes shined with the excitement of anticipated success.

"That is a pretty good plan. How much energy have we collected?" asked Cat.

"According to my last count, including the juice we got tonight, Tempest is at 15 percent strength capacity. We've only given her a boost of 5 percent tonight," said Quint.

"What? After all we went through tonight, that's all we got?" groaned Cat. "We've attacked huge groups like two times, and that's still not enough energy?"

"Nope. It seems that we didn't generate enough fear," answered Avatar.

"You bet your pretty little asses you didn't," laughed Hecate.

Avatar glowered at her. "What do you want?"

"I'm just trying to help you girls out. I can give you another army. AND a daimon. They'll scare people, keep those do-gooders distracted, and you can take all the energy you guys can carry out."

"Why are you helping us?" asked Midii. She had no direct quarrels with Hecate, but she didn't trust her.

"Look, in spite of how we personally about each other, I'm sure we are civilized enough to put differences aside for at least a few months. Long enough to get the mission done and completed. My proposition is that we put personal squabbles in the back burner until the mission is done. Truce?"

The other Raptures stared at each other. "I suppose so," grumbled Flamethrower.

"Agreed," smiled Hecate. "Now, my monster is called Phantos. It's an especially nasty daimon. It's difficult to kill because it's a shape shifter."

"What does it do?" asked Midii.

"It can turn into your greatest fear."

Flamethrower was impressed, yet slightly frightened of such a creature. If anyone knew she was so weak and vulnerable, she'd never live down the shame. "I hope it works better than your other monsters."

Hecate stared at Flamethrower. "Of course. Have a little more faith in me. Despite the fact that the Peacecraft wedding was a failure, you still took home some energy."

Flamethrower reluctantly conceded.

Flamethrower entered her room. It was a simply furnished room. It had a bed that was just comfortable enough for decent sleep. The bed had plain white sheets, and a thin blue blanket that sufficiently kept her warm at night. Her pillow was thick and firm, as she liked it. Her dresser didn't have make-up of great color, but of simple basic things. Moisturizing lotion, tiger balm, clear lip gloss, and a few jade bracelets. Ivory hair clips, and lace adorned the black lacquer dresser. There was a mirror with fake gold edges that was propped onto the wall in front. A simple wood chair was placed before the dresser so Flamethrower could look at herself. She liked to look neat and clean. It shows discipline and cleanliness, yet the lack of showy makeup showed her simplicity and awareness of natural beauty within a woman.

She sat in the dimly lit room. On the table was a white candle that she lit every night. She untied her bun, and her four feet of shimmery, black silk flowed over her left shoulder. She grabbed her hair brush and made a hundred strokes to even out the curled locks. As she did so, she stared at her image in the mirror. She gasped suddenly and looked at herself more intently. For the first time in ten years, she realized that she was actually pretty.

There were few flaws in her skin. Her eyes were the color and shape of almonds. They had a dreamy, attractive look as she stared at herself. Her face was rounded, but more oval like about her chin. Her cheek bones weren't so prominent, but they were clearly seen. "Tam was right. I guess I am pretty," she said silently to herself. Flamethrower never paid much attention to whether she was pretty or not. She was more concerned that her skin had no blemishes because it was a sign that she was not taking proper care of her body. Lack of discipline, her father would call it.

A.C. 185

Sky Fire was only ten in her quiet village by the great, blue sea. She skipped along the sea shore, with her butterfly kite, painted in red, blue, yellow, and purple. True Mountain and Gold Flower were her sisters. Small Tiger was their big brother. He was 19 and the pride of the Dragon clan of Ping Long. A brave warrior trained by their father, who was a renowned master throughout the colony cluster.

Small Tiger was married a few months later, and his bride was a girl only six years older than Sky Fire herself. "She will be your brother's wife, and perhaps playmates for you and your sisters," her father scoffed.

White Jade was a skinny girl, who was not terrible looking, but she was not particularly beautiful in any way. She was very obedient, however, which made up for her lack of great beauty. Small Tiger was a good husband, who respected his wife greatly. However, White Jade never seemed to be happy, even when Small Tiger gave her flowers or simple gifts that many other women would LOVE to get from their true love husbands. Sky Fire felt sorry, but was not happy that White Jade would be so ungrateful. "Why are you so foolish? My brother cares about you deeply. Why aren't you grateful? Many other husbands wouldn't care what happens to you. Just as long as you give them their sons and their dinner plates."

White Jade only looked sadly at her youngest sister-in-law. "I miss my true love."

"You love someone else?"

"Silly child," said White Jade as she shook her head. "You are only ten and you only know of true love. Life is not always so good. Some are lucky to be in love with their spouse. Though your brother has been VERY good to me, I cannot love him. Not really. I love him, as a dutiful to her husband, but I can never love him like I love another."

Sky Fire was curious about this other man that sister-in-law was in love with. "Who is this man that has your heart in his hands?"

White Jade only smiled. "It doesn't matter what his name is. What matters is, is that I cannot be with him. I am married, and he is dead now."

"Dead?" Sky Fire almost began to regret ever bringing up the subject.

White Jade stared out of the window. She could see the quietly, churning sea. "He is in the sea now. He was defeated by Tsunami god."

"Tsunami god?"

"There was a story my mother told me. There was once a maiden who walked along the beach. She didn't see that a sea god, Tsunami, was watching her, who fell in love with her. He turned himself into a human man and appeared before her. She was in love with him and they pledged their love. The sea god left to ask for permission to marry her from the other gods of Heaven. While he was gone, another man came along and she married him, thinking that the sea god had abandoned her. It took him many months before the other heaven gods agreed to the marriage. When he returned to the beach, he saw that the girl was there marrying another man. In his anger, he revealed that he was a sea god and that she betrayed a heavenly being. In revenge for the girl and her new husband, he turned back into a god, and ran into the sea. His was SO angry, that he made the sea churn and bubble. He jumped up and down in fury and made the earth shake. His shouts of anger and frustration made the winds howl. And in his rage, he created a tsunami that killed the people at the wedding, and the town that the girl lived in. To this day, people say that tsunamis occur because Tsunami sees another beautiful maiden and she marries another man. In a fit of anger, he creates the storm to punish them."

"What a sad story," said Sky Fire.

"Yes. I think that is what happened to me. Tsunami god was jealous that I was happy, and took revenge on my true love. Now, I must live the rest of my life with a husband that I can only be loyal to."

"I am sorry, but you must see what is good in my brother. Maybe things will be easier for you," said Sky Fire.

White Jade smiled at Sky Fire. "I'm glad to see that you are so nice."

A.C. 190

Fifteen and Sky Fire was getting ready to find a husband. There were few families that Master Dragon would approve a union with. However, the Lam family were a decent family of respectable position in the colony. They were a merchant family that worked hard and were honorable. Their son, Tam, seemed to like Sky Fire so the marriage between them would not be a difficult transition. Tam and Sky Fire were playmates, and Tam seemed to have a little crush on her. Meanwhile, Sky Fire was more independent. More like a boy, said her father. "Ah if you were only born a boy. You'd be even better."

"You know what?"

"What Tam?"

"You are pretty."

"Stop teasing."

"I'm not. You are kinda pretty." Then there was silence as the two betrotheds walked along the sea shore. "What do you think about marrying me?"

"It's alright I suppose. I guess it's better that I marry someone I know and not some stranger whose probably a snot-nosed brat."

Tam laughed. "That's true. You're my friend, and I'm glad my wife will be my friend at least." He looked at her again.

She turned to face him. They both leaned towards each other until their lips met and they kissed each other for the first time. The sky grew dark and the ground began to shake. When they separated, they quickly ran back to Sky Fire's house. "Ma-ma! Ba-ba! There's an earthquake!"

"Quick, we must hide!" shouted Master Dragon. Everyone hid under tables and beds. True Mountain was no longer living with the family since she was already married and lived in the village two miles away. And Gold Flower left the Colony to marry into another family. All that was left was Small Tiger, White Jade, and their little boy, Silent Wind.

The shaking was intense. The earth below their feet felt like the rumble of a sleeping dragon who was seriously angry. The trees fell from their roots and fell this way and that. Sky Fire hid under a bed with Tam. Her parents hid under the kitchen table. Small Tiger and his family squatted into the large bathtub and placed a large board over their heads. Silent Wind cried in the confusion. White Jade hugged her boy closely to calm him. Master Dragon and his wife huddled under the table as pots and dishes crashed on top of them.

Tam and Sky Fire were flat on their stomachs under the bed. "I hope this ends soon," said Sky Fire.

"Don't worry. It shouldn't be for too much longer," reassured Tam, who was well versed in science.

The earth was soon silent. Sky Fire and her family emerged from their hiding places after they were certain the aftershocks were gone. "I'm glad that's over," sighed Small Tiger.

"What's that?" asked White Jade. They were silent and heard a loud roar.

"Oh my god!" screamed Master Dragon's wife. She looked out of the window and saw a huge tidal wave coming straight towards them.

Sky Fire's heart pounded because they lived only a mile from the beach and such a huge wave would surely crash against their simple house. They quickly ducked as the wave lumbered over the house, leaving the house into nothing more than mere shambles of a once proud, standing sanctuary.

It wasn't until nearly two days later that Sky Fire woke up. She could see that she was in a hospital room. Gold Flower and True Mountain were in her room looking over her. "Sky Fire!"

She tried to sit up. Gold Flower reached over to help her up. "We're glad you're alright."

"What happened?" Sky Fire was bandaged all over.

The two older sisters looked at each other. Then True Mountain decided to speak. "You're the only one left."

"What?"

"There was a huge tsunami that hit the house. Somehow you survived. Mother, father, brother, sister-in-law, nephew, and your fiancée..." She paused as she saw the dawning realization sweep over Sky Fire's face.

"They're dead aren't they?"

The sisters only nodded as they cried. Sky Fire only looked at them without a single tear on her face. "I am the last Dragon of Ping Long. I must keep our family honor."

"How can you think of such things at a time like this?" asked Gold Flower.

Sky Fire only looked at her sister. "It's the only thing left living for. Our family has survived centuries of struggle. Do you think that stupid tsunami god will stop me?"

The sisters looked at each other. They had a silent conversation of 'Sister has lost her mind.'

From that day onward, Sky Fire vowed to prove herself and her family were powerful. A force to be feared.

Three years passed since her family was dead. Sky Fire made it clear that she had intention of EVER marrying. She spent her time dedicating her life to learn the art of fire. To control the power and destruction of fire. "I will create such a fire that NO tsunami god can put out. Not even if he tried for a thousand years!"

"You!" said a voice.

"What? Who do YOU think you are?" Sky Fire glared at the girl who appeared. She looked no older than White Jade did when Small Tiger married her.

"I know that you seek something. Power!"

"Doesn't everyone? What do you want?"

"I know that you possess great abilities, but you have much more to learn. Much more to know before you can get what you want."

"Such as?"

"Join me on my quest and I can make sure you become the Dragon Empress and your clan will live for 10000 years. All will fear your wrath and you will be a force to be reckoned with," smiled the girl.

"And I'm supposed to believe that YOU can give me things that I have worked almost my entire life to achieve?"

"Of course, Lady Sky Fire."

Sky Fire glared at the girl who knew her name. "I don't know how you know my name, but I intend to destroy you!" She ran to attack her with her arms flailing to punch her, and her legs flying to knock her over. The other girl proved to be a worthy opponent as she dodged Sky Fire's attacks.

"My turn," she smiled as she landed a punch into Sky Fire's face. With a spin kick, she knocked Sky Fire to the ground.

Sky Fire panted heavily from the exercise. "You have defeated me. What do you want from me exactly?"

"I just want you to join me."

Sky Fire saw that this girl was no ordinary girl and there was something about her that would prove to be useful for her. "Very well." She offered her hand.

"Good," the girl said as she pulled Sky Fire to her feet.

"You never said what your name is," Sky Fire replied as they walked together.

"You only need to call me, Avatar."

Since that fight, they became loyal friends. Sky Fire was dedicated to the mission that Avatar took upon herself. They were partners in crime. Sky Fire trusted Avatar's instincts, and Avatar could count on Sky Fire to support her. Soon afterwards, Sky Fire became Flamethrower to leave the life of her past. But now, Flamethrower wondered what was in stored for them. They were ready to attack the convention.

Author's Notes:

Will they steal enough energy to free Tempest into the Gundam Universe, or will the Senshi be able to help the pilots stop the Raptures? And what IS Relena's secret? Check out Chapter 17!

Gundam Wing: Raptures of Paradise

Chapter 17---------- Relena's Dream

By Sailor Celaeno

Trowa was never the best with words. But what he did say were true words that no one else could have said better. He did see things clearly in his mind. He knew reality from the illusion. It was a certain instinct within him. He avoided the delusions and fantasies that people present to him. He was an illusion himself. The Silent Clown, who performs for the crowds of people, giving them the joy and glee for their money's worth. "Why would people want to delude themselves?" He'd ask himself sometimes.

The answer wasn't so far away. All the pilots began to wonder some of the same things. "I just don't get something about you, Trowa," said Quatre.

"What's that?"

"No one ever really knows what you're thinking. You keep things to yourself. I get worried about you sometimes," Quatre said earnestly.

Trowa stare at this blond companion. "There are just some things I don't want anyone to know about. Something I can't say."

"It has to do with Midii, doesn't it?" Trowa remained silent. Quatre sighed. "Promise me something."

"What's that?"

Prmoise me that you'll tell me one dayt?"

Trowa thought carefully. Could he really tell Quatre? Tell anyone at all? He turned back to his friend. "I promise."

Nova was a mysterious woman. Heero couldn't get her off his mind. "What does she want with Relena?" Heero thought as he too his place at the convention. His first assignment as a Preventer was to watch the diplomats. The other pilots took their positions. Heero made sure he kept a close eye on Nova.

Nova had introduced herself to Relena and Heero observed the strange reactions of the two women. "Hello Miss Peacecraft." Nova was friendly. She noticed Relena's appearance.

"Hello... Miss Rokureno," Relena returned. Heero noticed Relena seemed to recognize Nova somehow.

"I'm pleased to meet such an industrious, you womna. Your goals for pacifisms are remarkable. It will be a long road that won't be east. I know you are capable of many things." The twinkle in Nova's eyes, the meditative stares at Relena didn't escape Heero's notice.

"Of course. I'm glad to hear Pleiades is a supporter of my goals. I am aware of the work being done. I hope that you won't be developing weapons."

Nova smiled. "My dear Miss Peacecraft, I assure you we have no intention of that."

"You have been developing further into laser technology." Relena was wary of some of the work being done. Much of the information and research could easily be converted into the production of dangerous weapons of mass destruction.

Nova smiled again. "Weapons are weapons because they are used to destroy. Laser can be used to treat cancer, mine in mineral deposits, and make precise cuts to design objects. By itself, laser technology is nothing. It depends on how people use this technology that is the key." Nova had a look of victory and suspicion on her face as she stared at Relena.

"Miss Peacecraft, you're speaking in a few minutes," called a man.

I'll be there," Relena called back. "Perhaps we'll continue our discussion later." Relena and Heero walked away.

"Nova smiled. "Well Miss Relena. I know your powers. But I need to be sure."

Relena walked towards the front podium. "Heero?"

"Yes, Relena?" Heero barely looked at her.

"I have a strange feeling about Miss Rokureno. There was something about her that just doesn't seem straightforward."

Heero only responded with, "What could there possibly be wrong with her?" He couldn't get her worried over what he suspected. "What would make you think that?"

"Well, it really began a few months ago. I have this uncanny ability to sense people. It's not just have intuition. I just have a feeling about people. It's almost like I know their thoughts." Heero turned to stare at her as they walked. "But that's silly. I'm no psychic."

"Some people are easier to understand than others." A fear crept over him. Does she know his thoughts?"

"It all happened after I had this dream."

"What dream?"

"There is a beautiful girl with strawberry blond hair. She looked at me with sad, cerulean eyes. All she did was ask for my help. I reached out my hand and she also reached out. And then... then..."

Heero only stared at her, "Then what?" He was intrigued at this dream of hers.

"Well there was a strange light, but everything afterwards was a blank.:

"That is strange." Relena arrived at the podium. Lady Une sat behind her. Heero stood near by as Relena walked up to speak.

"Remember. We must steal their fear energy," said Avatar to the other four Raptures.

Esmeralda thought sadly to herself. "Oh Quatre. I just hope that you don't get hurt. I'd never forgive myself if anything happened because of me."

"Let's go," said Agent Une. They all proceeded to enter the building with their weapons ready to attack. Midii only thought of the attack they would commence. "Well Trowa, it's about time that we settle things between us. I know how you despise me. I just want you to kill me. I won't stand dying because of anyone else. You are worth it, Trowa Barton. You are my destiny."

We'd better keep an eye our for the Raptures. The guys won't be able to handle them. Nova has a pretty strong feeling they'll try something," replied Hotaru.

"I don't doubt it," replied Raye. "They know all sorts of powerful people will be there."

Rini stared into outer space. Hotaru walked over to her friend. "Is something wrong?"

"I just hope that everything will be alright."

Hotaru looked at her friend again. "Are you worried? We'll stop them Princess."

Rini began crying. "I'm scared. I'm just scared that this world will be destroyed. I'm scared about what will happen to all of these people. There is a darkness coming."

The other senshi were listening to the conversation as well. "Rini is right about one thing. We can't just sit back and wait for the Negaverse to come here. We have to stop it. Anyway we can."

"Just don't end up having more people get hurt," smirked Lita.

"Don't worry about that," smiled Michelle. "Amara is more careful. I assure you."

Raye walked over the fireplace in the convention hall lobby. She stared into the burning flames. Her eyes were locked onto the fire and the glowing light it emanated. Amy glance over at her friend. "Raye? Is something wrong?" Raye kept staring at the fire as though it sole her awareness of the world.

Mina looked worried and tapped Raye's shoulder. "Raye?"

Huh?" Raye nearly jumped in surprise. She stared at all the faces in the room. "What?"

"Raye, you were dazed. You saw something in the fire," Mina replied with a worried look. "What did you see?"

"Something will come to change the course of things," said Raye ominously. "What does that mean?" asked Amara.

"I can't say for certain. Something will happen that will shift the balance of power. I don't know anymore," sighed Raye.

"There isn't anything else we can do, except watch," sighed Lita.

The senshi proceed to watch the convention with the reporters.

Relena spoke. "I stand before you all on this day to reaffirm my belief in peace. I only ask that you may open your hearts to the frailty of humanity. All around you, in this room, are human beings. We are all beings that need peace to calm the confusion and chaos of life. I only wish to spread peace. To live in a world where there will be no fear of war and its destructive hand sweeping into my life and the lives of all good people. I have the sincere hope that you will all join me in this hope and will do whatever can be done to spare lives and prevent senseless deaths."

The other people watched her great rhetoric. Heero heard her words as well. It was something he would be the words she'd preach. Peace. Peace was a frail, difficult flower and it was hard to obtain such a difficult thing. The never-ending paradox was before him. To bring back peace, he had to destroy his enemies. All those that would hinder peace. When he walked out of her life before, he only said, "You are trying to bring peace to humanity. But I'm a soldier. My purpose is to fight to bring back this peace. Soldiers are only there to fight. We fight for peace, but the sad truth is that once the fighting ends, we'd never survive, in that peace we've destroyed for."

"But there will be a new start for you. A chance to live without having to watch for an assassin's bullet," said Relena.

Heero smiled. "Such a lovely dream of yours."

"oh... Heero..."

"Don't you understand Relena? The fighting becomes a part of my life. The war ends out here, but the war lives on... in me. The war will never end." Heero never believed Relena would ever truly understand. Relena never felt the blood on her hands. She never tasted the bitterness of the struggles he had. He fought enemies all the time. Whether it was an army of mobile suits or the darkness within himself, Heero was the soldier. The Perfect Soldier.

"Just one thing, Heero," said Relena.

"What's that?"

"If you ever come back, I will be here waiting.: And wait she did. Now that he did come, she was still there. They had a strange relationship. Even Heero wasn't sure what to make of it. He knew she loved him. But How did he feel? He didn't know if he was in-love, or just slightly infatuated. Did he just become so used to her following him that he needed to be around her? What ever that feeling was, it was strong indeed.

Nova sat patiently in her seat. She stared at Relena, who spoke so eloquently that it could woo any warmonger to listen for at least a few moments. There was something about Relena that she couldn't shake off. "What is there about you? I can feel a strong power within you, but why?" After a moment, a thought occurred to her. "I must find out for sure."

Three… Two… One… The Raptures stormed into the room with a small army of Negaverse soldier. They began leaving the frightened people scattering. Soon they began capturing energy. "This has been a pretty easy job," replied Quint.

"A little too easy," noted Flamethrower.

"Hold it!" shouted a girl's voice.

"I wondered when they'd get here," Flamethrower replied sarcastically.

"We are the sailor Senshi, and we'll punish you!" they said in unison.

"We'd better get these people out," shouted Quatre. The pilots agreed and scrambled to get people out.

Heero led Relena to a small lounge and told her to wait. "I'll be back for you."

"I know you will," Relena replied as he left.

"Hello Miss Relena," called a voice.

Relena spin quickly to see the voice's owner emerge from a closet.

The outer senshi began fighting the Negaverse soldiers, leaving the inners with the Raptures. :Uranus… Sonic… Wave… Crash!" Sailor Uranus threw her strongest attack to knock them over.

"Mars… Fire… Spin!" Sailor Mars threw her attack at the Raptures.

They narrowly dodged the fireballs. Avatar used her telekinesis to throw energy blasts at the Senshi. "You'll have to do better than that to stop us!" snarled Avatar.

"She's powerful. What can we do?" asked Sailor Chibi Moon.

Sailor Mercury gathered her power. "Mercury… Icicle… Shower!" A blast of sharp ice fragments rammed onto the Raptures, but Avatar's shield protected them.

Quint pulled out a laser pistol to fire on then. With a few blasts, Sailor Mercury was subdued. "Don't think that you can hold us back for long!" laughed Quint. There was a vague lifeless look in her eyes. There was a strong sense of power that Quint had gained through her laser pistol.

"That's some gun," commented Sailor Venus as they pulled Mercury to the side.

"Pluto.. Dead… Scream…" Sailor Pluto blasted at the Raptures from behind.

Sailor Chibi Moon perked up. "Pu!!!"

"Use this!" Sailor Pluto tossed Chibi Moon a new pink locket.

"What is this?" asked Chibi Moon.

Sailor Pluto only said, "Shout Moon… Crystal… Power."

"Moon… Crystal… Power!" Chibi Moon's fuku had more ribbons and she had a small wand. "Wow! She held the wand tightly and she knew what to do. With great flair, she waved the wand and shouted, "Moon… Scepter… Elimination!"

They were all zapped at, but were not destroyed. "You are SOOOO foolish! We may serve the Negaverse, but we have our own powers to protect us," laughed the Cat Burglar.

"They're right," sighed Sailor Pluto. "Your attacks are only to fight them, not destroy the,"

"What CAN we do?" asked Sailor Jupiter.

"Nothing much," laughed Cat Burglar.

"Miss Nova!" Relena was surprised as the woman appeared.

"Hello Miss Relena," she said again as she walked closer.

Relena felt uncertain around her. There was something that Nova wanted from her. But she couldn't quite put her finger on it. "Is there something you wanted from me?"

"Let's not play games. You have been able to hide her for months, but I realized that I can't keep you out of this mess. I have finally accepted the fact, that you will be brought into something VERY dangerous. I know your secret, Relena." Nova spoke ominously and had a sad look on her face.

"I HAVE no secret," Relena replied without wavering.

"You have helped her to hide. If I can find her, the Raptures will find her soon."

"I'm not hiding anyone!" Relena was confused. Nova was insane, she concluded.

"She can't hide. She mustn't hide anymore. She has an important destiny to complete. If she doesn't do so, she will let many people die," Nova continued.

"It is sad… but what does this have to do with me?" Relena was a little frightened.

"You don't even realize the power you have."

"Power? What power? I only have my words. That is all the power I have," Relena stared at Nova with cold eyes. What did she want?

"The girl from your dreams gave you that power."

Relena's eyes widened. "How did you know about her?" This woman knew a little TOO much about her life. She was more than just a little scared.

"Miss Relena, the girl in dreams and I have a LONG past together. She knows me well," was all Nova said.

"Is she afraid of you?"

"She is afraid of her greatest enemy."

"If she has power, then why can't she fight her enemy?" Relena was intrigued in spite of her fears.

Nova paused briefly. She then stared up at the Princess and had a watery-eyed look in her face. "Miss Relena, there is much that you don't know about me. I suppose it was a matter of time before I had to reveal myself. After all, you and your friends have very special destinies in this universe, and I have a great interest in you all."

"What is there about you that I should know about?"

"The girl in your dreams is named Proserpine."

"Proserpine? The one who has a mother that's a senshi?" Relena stared in complete shock.

"I am the one who gave her the powers she has. She in turn has given them to you.

"What sort of power?"

"Something like this…" Nova glowed an aura of many colors. The room filled with the light, and Relena shielded her eyes. The light poured through the locked door and soon flooded into the hallway.

Avatar felt great pain. Strange light soon swept over the room, and she groaned, "AHHHHHHH!!!"

"Avatar! What is it?" Flamethrower asked. The other three Raptures surrounded their leader.

"There's a great power here. Their power is SO strong. It's overwhelming my senses."

The pilots returned to see the strange lights and the ill Avatar. "What's going on?" asked Duo.

"We'll be back!" The Raptures vanished.

Heero searched the room to find the source of the light. His eyes followed the flow of light through the doors that lead to… "Relena!" Heero raced to find her.

The other four Gundam pilots were ready to join Heero. "Stop!" called Sailor Venus.

"What?" asked Duo incredulously.

"We can't… We can't let you go," replied Sailor Venus reluctantly.

"Why?" glared Wufei.

Sailor Mars approached them. "We can't let you interrupt. It's important and we can't let you interfere what must be."

"But something could happen to Miss Relena!" Quatre exclaimed and ran off to help Heero.

"He's right. Relena is TOO important to our world, just as Serenity and Princess Serena is important to yours," added Trowa. The three remaining pilots also ran off.

Sailor Mars sighed. "We couldn't stop them like Nova asked."

"She knows we wouldn't be able to stop them, even if we used our powers on them," said Sailor Pluto.

They all found Heero banging at the door. "What's wrong Heero?" asked Quatre.

"It's… locked…" he grunted as he tried to ram the door.

"Let me try," said Duo. He pulled out a gun and fired. The door gave way and they were surprised to see Nova glowing and Relena standing their in place.

"You!" Heero glared at Nova.

"Relena and I have a great deal to discuss. I have to talk to her Heero."

"What do you expect to get from her?" Heero cocked Duo's gun at her.

Nova smiled, "I don't want anything from her, per say."

"What's that supposed to mean?" asked Wufei who was irritated with this perplexing woman.

"Hm. That is not necessary for you to know, Wufei. But if you insist…" Nova pulled out her silver locket. A silver light enveloped them all in a flash. The light soon cleared and they found themselves in a strange place. "Where are we?" asked Quatre.

"You are in MY domain," said Nova's voice. There was nothing but fog rolling all over. They all spun around to find her, but saw nothing except the thick fog.

"Your domain?" asked Relena.

Nova emerged and her locket glowed around her as she transformed. They all stared in disbelief.

Next time: What sort of secrets will Nova reveal to the Gundam Pilots and Relena? And how does Relena fit into things? Find out in Chapter 18!

This is a chapter that give some insight on these characters I've crammed into this thing. Now, enjoy.

Gundam Wing: Raptures of Paradise

Chapter 18---------- Destiny Awaits Before You

By Sailor Celaeno

They were all a little shocked at the sight they beheld. There stood Sailor Celaeno, the one who had been guiding their destinies all the time. "Why do I have a feeling that I should have known all along," Heero broke the silence.

"I know. I thought maybe you'd be the only one to guess. After all, I never thought for a second that you'd be clueless. You were always... special Heero Yuy..." she replied as though they were picking up on an unfinished conversation.

"Are you saying you knew Nova was a senshi?" Duo asked incredulously.

"Not exactly. I just had a suspicion that she wasn't what she appeared to be. However... I never anticipated this," Heero trailed.

"Why exactly are you involved in all this?" Wufei spoke up. He had been a little wary about Sailor Celaeno and Sailor Pluto. They were the most mysterious of the senshi. Sailor Uranus and Sailor Neptune were not too cryptic. Their intentions would eventually be revealed, but Pluto and Celaeno always kept their distance and only showed up at the last possible moment.

"As guardian of destiny, I cannot interfere in the course of a person's destiny. I cannot prevent deaths, or prevent tragedies. However, my second job is to be the senshi of the star Celaeno. Anything that involves Negaverse and anomalous intrusion requires me to step in. I cannot deny this. If meddling with your lives is what is needed in order to stop the Negaverse, then so be it," Sailor Celaeno said sternly.

Relena listened to the whole conversation. She was absorbing the information. "Well... what exactly did you want to talk to me about? That is the point of you bringing me here. The Gundam pilots only came because they were trying to protect me."

Sailor Celaeno smiled. "And they have done a very good job. There is something that you should know about that girl in your dream Relena. As you should now be aware of, she was my daughter. She is Proserpine, the Rose of Hope. Her sister, Hecate, is also free."

"How can Hecate and these Raptures be stopped?" asked Quatre. He was worried over the fate of the Earth. He knew how powerful the Negaverse was and so did the other pilots. The Negaverse would be even stronger because this universe didn't have Sailor Senshi to protect the Earth.

"Only the chosen one can use the Persephone locket's hidden powers to send the Negaverse back. However, it has become a little more complicated now..." sighed Sailor Celaeno.

"How exactly is that?" asked Quatre.

"You see, Hecate and Proserpine must be rejoined into one person in order to use the locket. However, Proserpine has taken refuge inside of Relena."

"Taken refuge? How exactly?" sputtered Duo with anxiety.

"When the twin sisters were released, Proserpine knew that Hecate would try to join with her. Proserpine was too weak to balance Hecate's negative personality. With Hecate's power being stronger, they will join and use the locket's power for evil. Proserpine needed to flee and gather strength from someone who has a pure heart in this universe. And she found Relena through a beautiful dream," explained Sailor Celaeno.

Heero only looked sternly. "And if they find Relena... they will find a way to force Proserpine out and release the Negaverse..."

"How can they force her out? I mean... from what I've heard about these Negaverse creeps, they get what they want by...... Oh my god!" Duo realized the facts. The Raptures and Hecate would kill Relena if it meant they could get Proserpine.

"How could she pick Relena? Relena has nothing to do with this. She could get killed for no reason!" Heero said bitterly at the idea that Relena could be killed.

"And that's something unusual?" Relena smiled at him. Heero looked unimpressed with her comment. "But seriously Heero. I am not afraid of death any more. Not when it's for something more important than myself." He still wasn't impressed, at least not on the outside. "Heero... please... for my sake, and for the people of Earth... I need to do this. Proserpine picked me to be her host because she believes that my heart will give her the power to face her sister. Why can't you believe in me?"

'I believe in you... more than you'll ever realize,' He thought to himself. "I won't stand by and let you get hurt Relena. The people of Earth need you more alive than dead. It would destroy the delicate peace if... if Earth's Dove of Peace dies," he managed to say.

The other pilots were shocked, yet not so taken back by Heero's protests. Sailor Celaeno knew what the future would hold for them, but only if they chose to continue. If not, then all would be lost.

Relena looked at him with her eyes pleading. The other pilots and Sailor Celaeno left them alone. Sailor Celaeno had some other things to discuss with the pilots. "Heero... I didn't want you to fight. I didn't want you to risk your life. I would have been destroyed here," she held her hand over her heart, "... if anything had happened to you. But I believed in you. I never had doubts that you would survive." She walked closer to him until she was close enough for him to hold her. "I could see that you were meant for something more than just to fly a Gundam and fight armies. I believed that you were could do so much more. I never gave up on that belief." Relena looked up into his Prussian blue eyes. She gently touched his face with her hand. "Can't you believe in me?"

He looked down at her face. There was something twinkling in her eyes. Her tears were swimming in her eyes, just ready to be shed. 'Don't fight your emotions.' That was all he could hear in his head. "So be it Relena Peacecraft. But I won't just stand by and watch you die."

Relena almost smiled. "I'm sorry Heero. If I die, then I die Heero. I don't like the idea of dying, but I can't fight what has to be done."

"When exactly are we going back to our dimension? I mean... they'll miss us..." pointed Duo.

"Don't worry. Once we get back, it'll only be one second after we left. That's the beauty of inter-dimensional travel," smirked Sailor Celaeno as she led them through the strange misty land.

"Where are we going?" asked Wufei. He was somewhat irritated with Sailor Celaeno's enigmatic games.

"It's something important. Very few mortal have this opportunity."

"What sort of opportunity?" asked Trowa.

"You have been born with great destinies. But you have the chance to see the universe..." She opened a door and they all stepped in.

They stepped into nothingness. All around where stars and planets swirling around a sun. Yet they could breathe in the vacuumed space. "It's so beautiful out here," sighed Relena. Comets streaked through the darkness, and the endless movement of the heavenly bodies glided along their path.

"This is how I see the universe. In it's infinite beauty. See these stars?" she pointed at everything around her. They all nodded. "Just as there are stars in the universe, there are other worlds, alternate worlds. All under my watch. It is hard to watch them all. To make sure that nothing goes wrong. I may seem cold, and distant, but I am not. I can't possibly be so desolate in heart to be the guardian of SO many destinies."

Quatre stared into the stars. Suddenly he could hear so many voices flowing through his head. "Ah!" he said in surprise. "I hear those voices."

Sailor Celaeno put her hand on his shoulder. "I thought you might. You have powers. You have telepathic abilities. You haven't explored the possibilities of those gifts, so they aren't strong. But here, in this dimension, you can hear the voices and thoughts of people, millions of light-years away. In this dimension, you are everywhere, yet standing in one place. It is a beautiful sensation isn't it?"

Quatre nodded as he soon as he relaxed and let the thoughts come to him. "You can hear them all the time?"

"Yes, Quatre."

"I've never seen anything so clearly as this," mused Wufei. He could saw how quiet, peaceful, and still it was in that place. Whenever he sat for meditation, he was always trying to focus on finding inner peace. A way to concentrate his mind to focus on the battles that would come. "I've found the place to focus on." Wufei could now have an image to use.

"It's like something united. Together, working harmoniously. I guess kinda like us, eh?" Duo said.

"Very good," answered Sailor Celaeno.

"So that was the real point behind this. We have to act together. We're a team. That's what you're trying to say," Trowa thought.

"I think you are ready to go back now." Sailor Celaeno's locket glowed again.

They all emerged from the lounge and returned to the other senshi. "You showed them the universe, didn't you?" asked Sailor Jupiter.

Sailor Celaeno smiled. "It is great out there. But I will never show them that ever again. It is something that one experience is more than enough to feel."

"How long do you suppose it will take for them to realize that they are looking for me?" asked Relena.

Heero looked at her disapprovingly. "What?" Milliardo asked incredulously. The pilots began explaining and Milliardo's face became very reserved. "Relena! I can't believe you're going to put yourself at risk like this. I'm sure Proserpine can another person to help her." Milliardo was very concerned for his sister. Not just because she was an important figure of peace, but because he really did love her.

Noin was nearly five months pregnant, and her womb was showing that now. "Zechs..." she touched him by the shoulder.

"Lucrezia?" He turned to look at her.

"I know that it's dangerous for her to agree to this. I'd also protest to this, but..." she paused.

"But?" he asked her.

"...But... the fact remains that she is making this choice for herself. And if Proserpine asked for anyone else, that person would also be in grave danger, and we'd still have a large problem in our hands. At least we know who the host is, and we can watch Relena. Somehow we must use this to our advantage. And it will still take some time for the Raptures to find her. We also have that card in our favor... even if it is temporary." Noin looked very serious. She was also reluctant about letting Relena be the host, but Noin also knew that Relena was VERY determined in everything she did, whether it was politics or picking a place to have her vacation at.

Heero was also listening to the conversation. "Noin is right..." he finally spoke.

"I'm surprised you agree," said Noin. Milliardo was also surprised. Though he still had some reservation about ANYONE that was particularly close to Relena, he knew that Heero was no fool, and he knew exactly what he was doing.

"Relena will do this no matter anyone says to her. I won't fight her decision, though..." he turned to her. "... Don't think that I'm taking this without some reservations Relena Peacecraft."

"I don't doubt that."

"Don't forget us! We can help you watch her and find those Raptures. This is still senshi business and we also have something at stake in all of this. That's why we're in this universe. Besides, we work well with you pilots. You have to admit that," said Sailor Mars.

"They're right. They can be VERY helpful for us. Their powers can help us fight those crazy Negaverse monsters. We can handle the rest," noted Duo. Everyone agreed and they divided work. The inner senshi took turns guarding Relena, while the outer senshi helped the pilots try to develop a strategy to fight the Raptures and their Negaverse allies. Heero and Milliardo still kept their eyes on Relena to make sure that absolutely NOTHING went wrong.

"Are you certain you felt this power?" asked Tempest.

Avatar stared into her mirror at the foreboding figure. "Yes. I'm very sure. I could feel such intense power, I couldn't believe anything in this universe is capable of such power. I'm sure it's Sailor Celaeno."

"Damn! They must be close to finding Proserpine. You MUST find her! Without her, the locket will be of NO use to us." Tempest smiled. "The energy you have providing me with is excellent. But I still need a little more to free myself from this prison dimension."

"I know Tempest. We have been working very hard. But, it doesn't seem any power we offer you is enough," Avatar sighed dejectedly.

"You will need energy from people of great passion. Only then can I be free."

Avatar left to ponder this a little further. Just for the next few days, the girls spent their alone from each other. Doing their own thing, trying to figure out where to go next in their plans. Avatar walked in the streets that cold December day. She stared into the pitiful crowds, scrambling to get last minute Christmas shopping done. "What do these pathetic people think they'll get out this? I don't understand this." She continued walking as she past FAO Schwartz and saw the crowds of parents with their children running all over the store.

"What is was to be a child," was all Avatar thought as she stared into the windows of the store.

A.C. 186

"Can I open the presents?" Kari asked excitedly.

"Of course sweetie," said Mr. Nahira. "It's Christmas day now!"

"Thank you!" she hugged her father before scrambling to open the beautifully wrapped package. Her eyes lit up to see a beautiful locket. "Oh Daddy!" She hugged her father again.

"Well, nothing is too good for my baby!" He cradled her in his strong arms.

"I love you Daddy. I love Mommy too. I will always love you both!" she smiled as she looked up into his warm, happy face.

"We will always love you. Don't forget that. We will always love you, my little lady." And Mrs. Nahira brought some hot chocolate for them to drink.

Avatar pulled her locket from under her bundles of clothes. She opened the gold chain. A picture of her parents were in the locket. She stared and lightly brushed her fingers over their faces. "This is what Christmas is supposed to be about," she murmured to herself. She closed the locket and hid it again. Avatar looked up and continued to stare at those happy faces in the toy store. "I will always love you."

Quint walked alone in a park. It was a nice neighborhood and she wished she could live in one of these nice apartment buildings. No doubt they were occupied by rich people with loved ones, in a warm apartment. Warm with love, and warm with heat. When had Quint ever have any of those things? She never had much. Never much at all. "Oh Pop, I miss you," she sighed to herself.

"What should we name the baby?" asked a woman. Quint looked up from her seat on a bench. There was a woman with short dark hair sitting on a bench near by. A large bush separated the two benches, so the couple didn't really notice Quint at first.

"I don't know. I have thought about a few names," replied a man with long blond hair.

Quint's eyes twinkled a little. "Name? What is my name?" Quint began to think to herself.

A.C. 183

A scruffy looking hobo walked along that cold December night. "Some night to be out here!" he grumbled to himself. He felt his raggedy pockets and felt a few coins jingling in his pocket. "Hopefully I can buy some tea bags from the diner for the boys and me. Sure could use some tea on this dang blasted night!" He walked another block towards the entrance of the diner.

"Mmmph!" a small voice whimpered.

"Eh?" asked the scruffy man. "Who's there? Who are you?"

"Mmph!" a tiny voice squeaked shakily again.

The sound came from the bushes. The scruffy man reluctantly prowled around to find the noise. "Oh dear lord!" He found a woman with a wiggling, small bundle of flesh in her arms. "Hey lady?" He gently shook her. She didn't move. He touched the side of her face. "Oh no," he mumbled. He shook his head sadly. "Poor woman. The cold got to her."

"Mama..." the tiny bundle mumbled quietly. The scruffy man picked up the bundle.

"Hey! It's a kid! A little girl? You's okay kid?" he stared at the little girl, who's face was growing ghostly pale. All the color left was the palest icy blue eyes, the red-brown curls, and her lips which were slowly getting blue.

"mama!" was all she said.

"Here, kid. You stay with ya ma. I'll be right back." He gently left her where he found her. He ran inside and cajoled the waitress into letting him buy tea bags. After ten minutes of convincing, he returned to the bush. "Ya know, kid? It's cold tonight, and an orphanage ain't a place for you to be tonight." He took her hand. "I'll call the cops once we get back to the warehouse. They'll take care of your Ma."

"What's your name, kid?"

"Quintie."

"Quintie? That's a strange name. Never heard of it."

Quintie handed the scruffy man a bracelet. He stared at it. It was made of gold, but he saw the inscription and knew that he couldn't pawn it. It should stay with Quintie. ~To my darling Quintessential Marie, from your Mamma and Papa~ Sept -- A.C. 179

"Well, Quintessential Marie. I am Horatio van der Horn. But you can call me Uncle Doc."

"Yes, Uncle Doc."

Quintessential Marie. Hardly anyone knew that name. Only the guys at the warehouse and Quint knew her real name. But she had parents. That's what the locket said. But who was she really?

Milliardo and Lucrezia were sitting together in the park. "I don't know. I have thought about a few a names."

"Like what?"

"Well, I thought about Julia, Cassandra, Elizabeth..."

"Girls names? What if it's a boy?"

Milliardo smiled. "I know. It could be a boy too. There's Roberto, Eduardo..."

"Eduardo? That's a nice name for a boy."

"Fine. If we have a boy, or if we EVER have a boy, we'll call me Eduardo, agreed Milliardo.

"What about a girl? We haven't decided a girl's name," noted Lucrezia.

"Well, there are lots of pretty names for a girl. We'll figure it out soon."

"I hope so Zechs." They both got up. The day was crisp and windy. Lucrezia walked close to Milliardo and they were the happiest couple on the street. They were together and they had a family starting for themselves. For now, the world was simple and uncomplicated.

It did seem a little off, as they noticed a tense look on the faces of Trowa Barton and Midii Une as they walked towards the frozen skating rink.

Trowa had come to the skating rink to be alone. It was early in the morning and very few came out on a Wednesday. But to his surprise he saw a lone figure sliding along the ice. It was a girl. He could see her slender legs moving gracefully on the ice. She had an excellent skating pose as she went several laps around the rink. He wondered who it could be. This strange girl who was alone, skating rather sadly.

He approached the ice and they soon locked eyes. "Midii?"

"Trowa." She was neither happy, nor frightened, but there was clearly a look of uncertainty and great emotion in her eyes.

"I didn't think I find you here."

"I'm sure if you did, you'd avoid me." She skated towards the edge of the rink. "If you want me to stay away from you, then I will." She was ready to leave.

Something about the way she was talking and the look in her eyes made Trowa feel sorry for her. Even if it was only for a few minutes, he couldn't ignore someone who was feeling bad about something. "Wait..."

Midii stopped in her tracks, and slowly turned around to face him. "Yes?"

"Is something wrong?"

"Wrong?" She asked, feebly hiding her emotions. "What could possibly be wrong with me? I don't have feelings. I'm a cold, treacherous snake in the grass." She spoke with a mixture of sarcasm and pinned up sorrow.

Trowa looked at her meditatively. "I know you. You'd never say anything so spitefully. There is something wrong."

"Why should you care, Trowa Baron?! I'm your ENEMY!" she shouted into the rink, not caring whether anyone did hear. "You HATE me! You have EVERY reason to hate me, and you'll never forgive me for what I've done. I've accepted it, so why don't you let me go? Why should you give a damn about me now?"

Trowa was surprised though he didn't show a single sign of it. He could see the frustration, the strained agony in her eyes, and he soon realized what was bothering her. "Forgiveness? IS that what you want? Fine. I forgive you."

Midii looked coldly at him. "Forgiveness? Do you think that is what I want? You can take back your forgiveness. I don't want anything from you. I don't to take anything else from you." She looked sadly at him.

Trowa looked tensely at her, that is until he glanced up and noticed Milliardo and Lucrezia Peacecraft walking by and stopping to watch them.

Midii followed his gaze and saw the Peacecrafts as well. "I'm going." She proceeds to leave.

"This is not over yet, Midii. We have something to settle between us. I have no doubts that this feud will end soon." Trowa watched her walk away and his mind lingered on his thoughts.

After a few minutes, Trowa was approached by the happy couple. "What just happened between the two of you?" asked Lucrezia.

"We have a long history together. There are just issues we have to deal with." Trowa had skated for a little while, and changed out of his skates. He left the rink with Milliardo and Lucrezia. They were meeting the others and would travel to Quatre's house. It was five days until Quatre's Christmas party on Christmas Eve. Everyone thought about taking a little rest from work and would spend the rest of their vacations at his large mansion. They took a train and got off at Rockefeller Center, where they spied Quatre and Dorothy, standing in front of the store windows, holding hands.

Dorothy was very worried. Something was troubling her but she wasn't quite sure what that feeling was. It was sad, and pitiful, but it frightened her terribly. It all had to do with Quatre. Something was after him, but she wasn't quite sure what to do about it. The fear was breaking her heart because she was very unconfident of her own boyfriend. She wasn't sure if he could handle the danger that was lying ahead for him. "I don't know what will happen to you. Why can't I make it go away?"

Dorothy gasped a little has two hands rested on her shoulders. They were gentle, and warm. "Hello, Dorothy," the friendly voice replied.

A strange chill ran over her whole body. It wasn't fear of her boyfriend. It was a sensation of despair and the tingling of being near the one she loved that brought this feeling. "Quatre…" she said quietly, almost nervously.

Quatre hugged her. "What's wrong Dorothy?"

"I don't know," she said in a quiet, melancholy voice.

Quatre turned to face her. He lifted her head up higher so he could look at her. "What's wrong?"

"I have this strange feeling."

"You have strange feelings? Maybe you're an empath too," he tried to joke a little to make her laugh. But she didn't even smile. "There really is something wrong. What is it?"

"I have this terrible feeling that something awful will happen to us really soon. I don't know why I feel like this, but the feeling is there. I can't explain it. Whatever it is… it's coming… soon," she looked at him sadly.

Quatre looked back at her. "Don't be so worried. I'm ready for anything that will come."

"I only hope so." She sighed as she looked at the display window.

Quatre reached over and held her hand. "I'll be here. I'll never leave." Then they looked up as they heard Lucrezia Peacecraft call to them.

"Well, nice to find you here," she smiled coyly.

Quatre and Dorothy reddened a little. "Hello," they said together.

"Should we go?" asked Milliardo.

"Of course," replied Quatre. They walked a little further to his limo where they were driven to the Winner mansion.

Next time: And find out the truth to Quint's past in Chapter 19!