Title: Forgotten Memories
Part 5
Author: DarkOuters7
E-mail: DarkOuters7@yahoo.com
Rating: pg-13
Here's part 5!!! And guess who returns! Yes! It's the one and only, Former Queen Selenity! Less seriousness in this one...Once again I'd like to thank KoujoKakyuu for being my devoted editor ^^...well email me with comments and complaints!
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Haruka woke up the next morning to see her mother already up. She went into the bathroom to take a quick shower and then quickly got dressed in another one of her blue dresses. She silently followed her mother to the breakfast table where everyone was chatting happily. She saw Michiru sitting across from her.
She smiled weakly at Michiru. Michiru sadly glanced back at her then looked away. Haruka's little smile faded. She tried to get Michiru to look at her again but it didn't work. She noticed a big bruise on Michiru's cheek. Subconciously, her hand went to her own cheek. The King and Queen of Neptune were trying to act happy but Haruka could tell it was all fake. Her own mother sat eating her breakfast silently.
The discussion hopped from stargazing to cooking to fashion. Nothing Haruka was interested in. She looked at Michiru again, and Michiru looked at her for a second before studying the table again. Haruka felt someone staring at her and looked to see Setsuna.
Setsuna looked at her sadly. Haruka returned the sad glance and studied the table herself. Breakfast finished and the Kings and Queens went into a conference room to talk. Queen Neptune excused herself for a moment though, and took Michiru away somewhere. She came back down alone a few minutes later. Queen Uranus grabbed Haruka's arm and took her to their room.
"Stay in here," she growled and walked out. Haruka could hear the door being locked from the outside. It was a heavy wooden door and Haruka knew she had no chance of breaking it down. She looked to the window. There was a balcony that she had not noticed before. She went out to see if there was anyway of going into another room. There was no way. Sighing sadly she made her way to her bed and lay down. Sleep was out of the question. She knew she was too awake for sleep. She lay there throwing the pillow up in the air and catching it hoping her mother would come let her out soon. She wondered when the next time she would see Michiru was going to be...
**********************
Michiru sat on her bed and stared angrily at the floor, scolding herself for not smiling back at Haruka.
"It must have hurt Haruka. I should have smiled! I know things are so bad but I at least should have smiled!" she said out loud.
She wondered if she could make the 10 foot jump to the next door balcony and get out into the halls by that room. She walked out to the balcony and looked at the distance again. She wished she could have her senshi powers already, for she knew that it would be much easier as Sailor Neptune. She was only in training though, and she didn't have her full powers yet.
"Maybe I can do it though. And if I don't make it, so what? We can't be together anyway!" Michiru said.
She took a deep breath and prepared to jump.
"Michiru-chan!" she heard someone call. She turned to see Setsuna standing on the balcony on the other side of hers.
"Setsuna-chan! Let me out! Please!" Michiru called out.
"Michiru-chan don't jump! You won't make it!" Setsuna said.
"Let me out!" Michiru shouted.
"I can't. Just don't jump ok? Promise me!" Setsuna shouted.
Michiru didn't answer.
"Promise! Now!" Setsuna shouted again.
"I promise," Michiru said briefly glancing at Setsuna.
"Good. The conference will be over soon and then it'll be lunch. You'll see eachother then," and with that Setsuna left.
Michiru sighed and went back into the room.
***************************
Lunch came and Michiru was very eager to see Haruka.
"And then I said, what dog? HAHAHAHA!" Queen Venus laughed.
Everyone else laughed politely.
"AHHH!! Mini fire!!" the Chef shouted. Everyone rushed into the kitchen.
Michiru stayed behind. She saw Haruka getting up but not to rush into the kitchen but to rush to her.
"Haruka!" Michiru exclaimed kissing her.
Haruka kissed her back and said,"Michiru, this is so horrible!"
"Haruka..."Michiru said sadly, "Mother and Father are marrying me off as soon as we go home."
"WHAT?!" Haruka's shouted.
"Haruka, I don't want to marry anyone but you! I love you and they are just taking you away from me!" Michiru shouted.
"I don't know what to do, Michiru...I..." but Haruka couldn't finish. She heard everyone coming back. Quickly, she ran to her seat. She sighed with relief when she saw that the Queen and King of Neptune and her mother didn't realize that they had left her and Michiru alone.
"That chef," Former Queen Selenity started, "is always burning the food! I told Serenity to get rid of her, but no! Serenity loves that one! Well, I hope she burns herself sometime! Then I can eat good food!"
"Mother! What cruel thoughts! Her food is very delicious!" Queen Serenity said.
"Yes, very yummy!" King Tamaonokoshi said.
"Oh, do shut up King! You have no idea what good food is!" Former Queen Selenity started.
"My food is good!" the King shouted.
Former Queen Selenity remained silent at that. Afer a few moments she said, "I guess your food is ok..."
"I TOLD YOU! HEHE!" the King shouted.
Everyone else was sitting there uncomfortably listening to the Royal Family of the Moon argue.
Haruka sighed, ignoring the shouts of help from King Tamaonokoshi as Former Queen Selenity attempted to strangle him.
' I have to get away from all this and I have to get Michiru to come with me! I just can't stay here anymore!' Haruka was busy thinking up ways to run away when the King Tamaonokoshi came falling onto her.
Haruka just blinked.
"Uh...excuse me....WAAAAAAAAAA" the King started crying.
"Oh dear!" Queen Serenity shouted running to the King. She helped him up and back to his seat.
"So sorry, Princess Uranus," Queen Serenity apologized.
"It's ok," Haruka said.
"Hmph! I'm going to my room! I can't stand eating with that idiot!" Former Queen Selenity said pointing to King Tamaonokoshi and walking away.
"Excuse my mother. You know how old women are. Always cranky and demanding something from you," Queen Serenity said.
"Yes, my grandma..." Queen Venus started.
Haruka spaced out again. She wished that she could just go home, but she realized that if she left she would probably never see Michiru again. She sighed and wished that lunch would never end.
Haruka felt something attack her hair. She looked up to see Michiru smiling holding peas. Haruka angrily grabbed a handful and without thinking threw them at Michiru. But something went wrong. Instead they went straight to Michiru's mother, Queen Neptune. A gasp arose from the table and everyone stared at Haruka. Her mother was about to open her mouth to yell at her but a glob of mashed potatoes hit her in the mouth. Yet another gasp arose and all eyes went to Hotaru who was giggling and holding another glob of the mashed potatoes. Queen Uranus stood up, took her plate, and attempted to dump it on Hotaru's head but instead Queen Serenity got in the way, and her white gown was covered in different kinds of foods. King Tamaonokoshi laughed and shouted, "Food fight!" Soon food was flying everywhere and it seemed everyone was having fun. Haruka poured lemonade all over Michiru's head laughing the whole time. Michiru glared at her angrily and dumped the bowl of ice down Haruka's dress. Haruka was attempting to get the icecubes out, looking very strange while she was doing it, when Former Queen Selenity walked in and slipped on one of the icecubes.
"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" she screamed. She fell to the ground and attempted to get up but was hit in the head by a whole turkey. King Tamaonokoshi started laughing.
"What is going on here?!?!?!?!?" Former Queen Selenity shouted.
All movement stopped. "Who started this?" Former Queen Selenity growled.
All eyes moved to Haruka. Haruka shook her head and pointed to Michiru. Michiru shook her head and pointed back to Haruka.
"It seems both of you started it! Come with me, this instant! The rest of you, go to your rooms! No fun for you today!" Former Queen Selenity shouted.
No one seemed to take Former Queen Selenity's word seriously. How could she be bossing Queens and Kings around like that?
"I SAID GO!!!" Former Queen shouted.
Everyone scrambled to their rooms. Haruka and Michiru stayed behind though, and were led to a small room by Former Queen Selenity.
"SIT!" she shouted pointing to a couch that appeared out of nowhere.
They sat.
"Now, what right do you as guests have to starting a food fight and messing up the dining room?" she asked.
"Uh..." Haruka started.
"None. We are dreadfully sorry for our behavior. I don't know what possessed us," Michiru said.
"Very polite young lady, Princess...?"
"Princess of Neptune Kaioh Michiru," Michiru said standing up, curtsying, and once again taking her seat on the couch.
"And you are?" Former Queen Selenity asked Haruka.
"Uh...Princess of Uranus, Tenoh Haruka," she bowed.
"Bowing? A girl does not bow! Curtsy for me!" Former Queen Selenity demanded.
Michiru laughed quietly while Haruka attempted a curtsy.
"Very well. I guess that will do. Now, for your punishments...hmmm...let me think..." Former Queen Selenity said pacing around the room.
"Mary had a little lamb, little lamb little lamb. Mary had a little lamb it's fleece was white as snow..." Former Queen sang as she thought.
Haruka burst out laughing. Michiru bowed her head down, her hair covering her face so her smile would not be seen.
"Princess Uranus! How dare you laugh at me?!?!" Former Queen Selenity shouted.
"Sorry, it's just..." Haruka started but once again Michiru came to her rescue.
"We haven't heard that song in ages and it just brings back memories, you know? Those were the days," Michiru said.
Haruka had to try very hard to stop herself from laughing again.
"Ah, yes. Those days when I was young and beautiful (Not that I'm not beautiful right now but I was much younger then)," Former Queen Selenity started.
Haruka sighed knowing she was in for a long story.
"I would hop and dance among the butterflies! Oh what fun it was..."
Haruka felt her eyes slowly drooping. Sleep had overcome her when she felt a sharp jab in her side. She awoke alert.
"And the horses would eat the hay..." Former Queen Selenity was saying.
Michiru was pretending to listen intently and nodding every once in a while.
Haruka's eyes slowly drooped again, and once again a sharp jab in her side brought her back.
Michiru glared at her before going back to listening to Former Queen.
"The roses smelled wonderful..."
Haruka decided it was a wonderful time to think of ways to get away. She could always knock the Former Queen out and make a run for it with Michiru but she decided that she shouldn't dare. She was in enough trouble already.
"And then I married that bastard and my life came to an end. Now I just sit around..."
' And boss people about,' Haruka added in her thoughts.
"But enough about me! Back to your punishment! Where was I? Oh yes...And everywhere that Mary went, Mary went, Mary went..."
Michiru heaved a big sigh of relief.
"I've got it!" Former Queen Selenity exclaimed after a few more minutes. "You two have to perform for the guests at the good-bye ball we're having! Make giant fools of yourselves infront of everyone! Wonderful! The ball is tomorrow night, as everyone is leaving in two days, so you better practice!!" and she pushed them out giggling to herself about what a wonderful mind she had.
King and Queen Neptune were waiting for them outside the door.
"We're here to get our daughter," King Neptune said, glaring at Haruka.
"Oh...I have to practice my act with Haruka for the ball though," Michiru said trying to make it sound like she didn't want to although she was grateful for a chance to be with Haruka.
"Oh? Is this their punishment, Former Queen Selenity?" Queen Neptune asked.
"Yes, and a rather good one if you ask me," Former Queen Selenity replied.
"Well, then Princess Uranus, come to our room and you and Michiru can discuss your act," Queen Neptune said.
"Ok," Haruka replied.
They walked silently to where the Royal Family of Neptune was staying.
"So, Haruka, do you play any instruments?" Michiru asked.
"Uh...ya. I play the piano..." Haruka answered.
"Oh? How delightful! Isn't that delightful, dear?" Queen Neptune asked her husband.
"Yes, whatever," the King replied rudely.
"I play the violin. Maybe we should play together for our act," Michiru said.
"Yes great idea. I heard there's a piano on the stage in the ballroom. Can we go there?" Haruka asked Queen Neptune.
"Yes, good idea." Queen Neptune replied.
Haruka and Michiru walked ahead of King and Queen Neptune.
"Play horribly, ok Haruka?" Michiru whispered.
"Why? You want me to make a worse impression on your parents then I already have?" Haruka whispered back.
"No, I'll play horribly too, ok?" Michiru asked.
"Ok..." Haruka said.
They walked into the ballroom and Haruka took a seat on the piano bench. Michiru summoned her violin and it appeared before her.
"Ok, what shall we play?" Michiru asked.
"Why don't you start with the violin and I'll come in with the piano?" Haruka asked.
"Ok..." Michiru said tuning her violin. Her parents took a seat on some of the chairs that had been left from the last ball.
Michiru started with the violin playing beautifully. At first Haruka was angry that Michiru wasn't playing badly, but soon the music took over her mind. It was so sad and full of pain and misery. Haruka had to try very hard to stop the tears from coming. She noticed Michiru was crying.
She was so into the music and the emotions that were sounding from it that she didn't realize it had stopped.
"Haruka? Haruka?" Michiru asked.
"Huh? What? Why did you stop?" Haruka asked.
"You have to start in with the piano, remember?" Michiru said.
"Huh? Oh, ya....but I don't think I can play with anything that sad," Haruka said.
"Oh, sorry. I'll try to liven it up," Michiru said.
She started playing again, the same sad tune with a faster beat. Then the violin squeaked loudly.
"Michiru! A squeak! Have you not been practicing lately?" her father asked.
"Oh, sorry Father," Michiru said. She started playing again, with little squeaks every now and then.
Haruka joined in with the piano, and at first her tune was going along wonderfully with Michiru's but then she started pounding on the keys and pressing them randomly. Michiru started squeaking again. It sounded more like someone's cries of agony then music.
Michiru's mother covered her ears. A pained expression grew on her face. Michiru's father was shaking his head in disgust.
"I do believe you two have a lot of work to do," Queen Neptune said.
"We'll leave you be. We have other things to do than listen to that racket!" King Neptune said leading his wife out the door.
Silently, Haruka and Michiru watched them hurry out.
"Yes! It worked!" Haruka exclaimed.
"Now we have time to talk," Michiru said.
"We should at least practice," Haruka suggested even though she didn't want to. She didn't need her mother to lecture her on playing the piano badly.
"No, you played wonderfully before I started squeaking. We were playing along just fine. I think that whatever I play you can find something to go with it, but we need to talk about other things," Michiru said.
"Yes, like what we are going to do," Haruka said.
"Haruka, I've been thinking. Do you think the Earth would be a friendly place for us?" Michiru asked.
"The Earth?! Are you crazy?! Have you heard the stories that come from there! Wars and battles with overpowerful gods and such horrible things! The Earth would be one of the worst places for us to go."
"Then what?" Michiru asked sadly.
Haruka didn't reply. After a few moments of silence, Michiru picked up her violin and started playing the sad tune again, but this time it was very slow, and every note seemed like a desperate cry for help. Haruka found herself crying, and not able to think clearly.
"Would Setsuna-chan help us hide on Pluto?" Michiru asked stopping the music.
"No. I mean she's our friend and all, but she knows it isn't right. She'll tell us to stay with our paths in life," Haruka said.
"Will the Princess of Death let us find refuge on her planet?" Michiru said referring to Hotaru, who she hadn't known personally.
A thought came to Haruka. "If the Princess of Death won't, I know what will," Haruka said.
Silence echoed through the room. Once again, Michiru picked up her violin playing the sad tune that brought tears to Haruka's eyes. Minutes passed, which became hours, while Haruka sat listening to Michiru's beautiful song.
'Funny how such misery can be so beautiful,' Haruka thought to herself.
The eerie beauty of the song was abruptly ended when Haruka's mother walked in.
Michiru looked up startled. She had been so into her song that she had lost conciousness of her surroundings.
The silence that encircled the room was growing awkward.
"Mother?" Haruka asked as she watched her mother stand before her, not saying a word.
"Oh, yes, uh...it's soon to be dinnertime. I want you to come get ready," Haruka's mother said.
"Oh? I lost track of time..." Haruka said.
"I trust your mother will be wanting you back, too, Princess Neptune," Haruka's mother said to Michiru.
"Yes, I'll be going now," Michiru said hurrying out of the room.
Haruka silently followed her mother.
"Michiru plays beautifully," Haruka's mother said, breaking the silence.
"Ya...it's so...hypnotizing, especially when..." Haruka started but stopped herself.
"Expecially when what?"
"When...you feel that same pain..." Haruka said.
Her mother replied with silence.
"Oh dear! And what is that you're wearing Serenity dear?" Former Queen Selenity exclaimed as she walked into the dining room.
"A dress, mother..." Queen Serenity replied, embarrased.
"Do you think I'm blind?? I see it's a dress! But what a horrid color!" Former Queen said.
"Mother, it's black..." Queen Serenity said.
"BLACK!?!?! I see that... A MOON QUEEN DOES NOT WEAR BLACK! WHO DIED??" Former Queen shouted.
"No one..I just like black..." Queen Selenity said.
"Do you think my dress is horrid too?" Setsuna asked Former Queen Selenity.
Haruka gasped. Setsuna was not the kind of person to say that.
"Oh, well...black goes with you..." Former Queen said.
"But not with me, mother?" Queen Serenity said.
"Well...uh...oh...Look at the time! I have to go!" she said as she ran out the room.
"She forgot to eat her dinner..." King Tamaonokoshi stated.
"By the way, it is very delicious..." Queen Mercury said.
********************************
Michiru tried to pay attention to the conversation, but her mind kept going to Haruka's words. "If the Princess of Death won't, I know what will..."
She looked over to Haruka, to see if she could get any thoughts from her, but Haruka was busy staring into the distance. Dinner ended, and everyone sighed with relief when Former Queen Selenity didn't appear.
They sighed too soon. Former Queen Selenity waltzed in holding her head high and glaring at anyone who dared to stay in her way.
"Serenity, darling, would you kindly take your guests out of this room? I need to eat in peace," she said glaring at everyone.
"Of course mother. Everyone please take this night off from your duties. I think we need a break. Two conferences in one day is just too much. Our next one will be tomorrow after breakfast," Queen Serenity said.
Everyone nodded, understanding, and left for their rooms.
"Princess Uranus? Princess Uranus...?? Princess Uranus!?!!!!" Haruka spun around to face Queen Neptune.
"Uh......" Haruka started saying.
"Princess, I want to say that I'm...." she started but was interrupted by her husband.
"We need to go, dear," he said glaring at Haruka, and led Queen Neptune away.
Haruka watched as King Neptune grabbed Michiru's arm and led her away too.
"Well, since she's locked up I guess it wouldn't hurt for you to be able to walk around. I'll be in Queen Serenity's room discussing some things if you need me, although why you might I'll never know," and with that Queen Uranus walked away.
Sighing, Haruka walked over to where Michiru's room was. She didn't know what else to do. As she was about to knock she heard King Neptune yelling.
"I saw you looking at that girl at dinner today! And you started that food fight too! How many times do I have to tell you to be polite!?? You must be the most misbehaving Princess in the Galaxy, not counting that excuse for a Princess, Tenoh! Why..."
"Shut up bastard just shut up! Haruka is the best person in the world! I love her more than I could ever love you!" Michiru shouted.
Haruka leaned against the door, wide-eyed, even though she knew that eves-dropping was wrong.
"You little...I'll get you! And did that bitch teach you this too?" King Neptune shouted.
"Stop fighting!" Queen Neptune was heard shouting.
"Why? You'll never stop fighting with me!" Michiru shouted.
Silence. Then a slap was heard followed by Queen Neptune saying, "How could you do that to you're own daughter? How could you possibly hurt her like this?"
"Father, I hate you," Michiru spat out. Haruka knew that it came straight from the heart.
Haruka could hear someone storming to the door. She ran like never before back to her room, without looking back once, hoping that she hadn't been seen.
She ran in and slammed the door behind her.
"Haruka?!?!" Queen Uranus exclaimed when she saw her daughter leaning by the door panting.
"Mother? Oh, I didn't know you were in here..."
"WHAT WERE YOU DOING??"
"Nothing." Haruka said sounding a little too reasurring.
"TELL ME! GETTING INTO MORE TROUBLE, AREN'T YOU?" Queen Uranus shouted.
"I'm tired. I think I should be getting to sleep..." Haruka said.
"You are not sleeping until you tell me what is going on! I see that guilty disturbed look on your face!"
"Huh?" Haruka said trying to look tired.
"Haruka! You...URGH! Go to sleep then!" Queen Uranus shouted.
Quietly Haruka got ready for bed. When she came out of the bathroom, she noticed her mother was gone. Hoping that she wasn't trying to investigate what Haruka had been doing, she got into bed, but she just couldn't sleep.
' Michiru knew what I was talking about. She didn't object to it. Why is that the only option? Because it isn't the only option. We could always just go our separate ways, but I can't imagine not living with Michiru. I mean...urgh...stupid world! It just doesn't care!' Haruka thought.
The sound of the door creaking open brought Haruka out of her thoughts.
"Haruka, are you awake?" someone whispered.
"UHHHHHH...ya....." Haruka said not knowing who was at the door.
The person slowly closed the door and walked in over to Haruka's bed. Moonlight illuminated her face.
"Michiru?" Haruka asked, sitting up. "How did you get in here?"
"They can't lock me up in the room like an animal," Michiru said angrily.
"I heard...well...I was..." Haruka started.
"I know," Michiru said.
"HUH? HOW?" Haruka asked in panic, wondering if anyone else knew.
"Haruka, I know a lot...too much, really," Michiru said.
"Michiru, do you know if there is another way?"
"No," came the quick reply.
Silence.
Haruka heard a sigh.
"Haruka, where did your mother go?" Michiru asked.
"Who cares..." Haruka said, pulling Michiru close to her and holding her tightly.
Michiru didn't resist, but she said, "Haruka, if she comes in..."
Haruka wanted to say, 'So what if she comes in? It doesn't matter anymore if we're seen together,' but she didn't want Michiru to be punished further. She didn't care about her own punishment. She only cared about her Michiru.
"I guess you should go now, then," Haruka said sadly, taking her arms from around Michiru's waist. "You're parents did know you were out though, right?" Haruka asked worried that Michiru was going to be in more trouble.
"Yes. They decided that since you were locked up that I could roam around for a while. You weren't locked up though. The door was open and unlocked," Michiru said.
"My mother thought I was sleeping," Haruka said.
"And she still thinks you are. I better go..." Michiru said.
Briefly kissing Haruka goodnight, Michiru walked out the room, and slowly closed the door behind her. She heard voices approaching and she hurried back to her room.
Haruka could hear two women talking infront of the room. One was her mother, and the other sounding like Queen Neptune.
She could only hear bits of the conversation.
"Sad....locked....deserted...I wished....normal...." Queen Neptune said.
"...late..us....them..." Queen Uranus said.
Nothing was said, and the Queen Uranus walked in. Haruka wasn't sure if it was real or just her imagination, but she thought she could see tears in her mother's eyes.
***************************
"I can't wait for the ball tomorrow night! It will be such a lovely event!" Queen Mars said.
"Yes, it will be, although I will miss all of you dearly. These past few days together have been wonderful!" Queen Serenity said.
"I could do without a few of you," Former Queen Selenity stated. No one answered.
"Um...yes I will miss you, Queen Serenity. I love staying at this palace. It's so beautiful!" Queen Venus said.
"And guess who will entertain us for some of the ball!" Former Queen Selenity interrupted. "Our very own Princess Neptune and Princess Uranus!"
"Oh how delightful!" Queen Mercury exclaimed.
"What will you guys be playing?" Setsuna asked.
"Well, um..." Haruka started.
"Haruka will be playing the piano and I will be playing the violin," Michiru said.
"Cool!" Hotaru exclaimed.
Former Queen Selenity's smile faded. Michiru sounded so confident.
"UH....well..." Former Queen said trying to change the conversation.
"Sorry to interrupt, mother, but I believe that we should have our conference now," Queen Selenity said. Everyone nodded standing up and following Queen Serenity.
"Do you mind taking care of Hotaru? I'll be needed in the conference," Setsuna asked Haruka.
"No problem," Haruka said taking Hotaru's hand.
"Setsuna-chan, don't they need me, though? I am the only ruler on Saturn..." Hotaru said.
"Yes, but you are far too young to understand. I'll try to make the best desicions for you, ok?" Setsuna asked.
"Ok!" Hotaru said cheerfully.
"Obviously Tenoh will be busy so you won't have to be locked up, Michiru," King Neptune said as he walked by Haruka.
Michiru stayed quiet watching her father and mother disappear down the halls.
"Would you like to help me take care of Hotaru?" Haruka asked Michiru.
"Sure," Michiru said.
"Great. So, Hotaru, what..." Haruka started.
"LET'S GO INTO THE KITCHEN! THE COOK SHOWED ME THE COOLEST TRICK!" Hotaru shouted.
"Ok..." Haruka said.
They walked into the kitchen to see the cook whistling and running around keeping everything under control.
"Uh...excuse me...cook..." Michiru started then looked at her name tag, "Cook Yoda,"
"Yes? Oh, my little death princess!" Cook Yoda exclaimed when she saw Hotaru.
"Hi Cookie-chan!" Hotaru exclaimed.
"I just made some cookies! Come sit down and eat!"
Haruka and Hotaru both grabbed handfuls and stuffed them in their mouths while Michiru took one and politely nibbled on it.
"Delicious?" Cook Yoda asked.
"YESH!" Haruka and Hotaru exclaimed cookie crumbs flying out of their mouths.
"HAHA, yes I'm glad you like them. I have more sweets for you to sample!" Cook Yoda said.
"But you dear thin girl!" Cook Yoda said to Michiru, "You only had one! Did you not like them?"
"Oh they were absolutely delicious, " Michiru said.
"You just don't wanna be fat like me, do you? I understand! Eat! Once will not hurt you!" Cook Yoda said.
' It doesn't matter anyway,' Michiru thought grabbing a handful and stuffing them into her mouth.
"That's the way, Michiru," Haruka said smiling.
Cook Yoda continued bringing samples of the sweets that the palace had and the three Outer Senshi enjoyed them all.
"You know," Cook Yoda said as she sat down at the table with them, "It's been so long since we had children in this palace. Queen Serenity was such a wonderful child, but she's all grown up now. And there's never any young princesses when the Inners come by, and the Outers visiting like this is so rare..."
"Don't worry. A child unlike any other will soon roam the halls of this palace," Hotaru said quietly.
Haruka and Michiru looked at Hotaru strangely but Cook Yoda said, "I'm glad! You know the last time the Outers came, none of you were born! Setsuna was...well Setsuna doesn't ever seem to change...I wasn't alive when she was a child, but when I think about it, I don't think any of the people from Pluto are ever really children...from what I've heard anyway..."
"Pluto is a very lonely planet. They are far far away from any of us, and the people there are used to being alone and independant," Haruka said.
"I can't imagine not talking with people from other planets! The Moon is always full of people from other planets and sometimes even other galaxies! You know, recently I talked to this very fascinating young lady from Kinmokusei..that's a very far away star from my understanding..." Cook Yoda said.
"Sounds wonderful to be around so many people," Michiru said.
"Yes, it is..." Cook Yoda replied.
"To have the need to be surrounded by people shows only that you are afraid," Hotaru said.
"Whoa, Hotaru-chan. Stop hanging around Setsuna-chan so much. It rubs off..." Haruka said.
"SORRY!" Hotaru shouted gleefully as she grabbed a handful of cookies.
Michiru studied Hotaru with interest.
' Poor, poor child. She is so happy and cheerful now, but soon, when the time comes, it'll all end...'
"Michiru? Michiru??" Haruka shouted.
"Oh, what?" Michiru asked.
"Hotaru wants to go for a walk. Wanna come?" Haruka asked.
"Oh, sure," Michiru said getting up from the table.
"Thank you Cookie-chan!" Hotaru shouted to the cook.
"Yes, thank you for the delicious food," Michiru said.
"Come visit anytime!" Cook Yoda said.
They walked through the palace gardens. It was very different during the daytime.
"Come on!" Hotaru said grabbing both of their hands when she saw a fountain.
"Slow down, Hotaru-chan!" Michiru exclaimed as the young girl pulled them through the garden.
"Can I go in it, Haruka-pa...chan?" Hotaru asked.
Haruka looked at Hotaru, wondering why she had almost called her Haruka-papa...It had sounded...right...somehow.
"Can I???" Hotaru asked jumping up and down hyperly.
"Uh...sure Hotaru-chan," Haruka said.
"Yay! Michiru-san, do you want to come in with me?" Hotaru asked shyly.
"Call me Michiru-chan...I don't know. My dress will get ruined..." Michiru started.
"Oh come on Michiru! You're the senshi of water and you hesitate to get wet?" Haruka asked.
"Only if you come in, too!" Michiru said.
"No way..." Haruka started.
"Yes! You're coming in!" And with one strong push, Haruka went flying over the edge of the fountain and splashed into it.
"Ow, my back..." Haruka moaned getting up.
Michiru laughed as she gracefully walked in.
"Haruka-chan! Michiru-chan!" Hotaru shouted happily splashing them.
Haruka splashed Hotaru back, and Michiru joined in too. Pretty soon they were all soaked.
Grey clouds began covering the sky.
"It's gonna rain. Maybe we should go back in," Haruka said.
"NO!" Hotaru shouted. "Let's stay out here! Please, Haruka-chan?"
Haruka looked at Hotaru's adorable face and couldn't resist. "Ok, fine."
"Yay! Thank you!" Hotaru said hugging Haruka tightly. Thunder sounded in the distance and rain started pouring down.
"Ok, play in the rain, Hotaru-chan," Haruka said pushing Hotaru off her.
"Yay!" Hotaru exclaimed as she danced around in the rain.
"Good idea, Hotaru-chan. Let's dance, too, Haruka!" Michiru said grabbing Haruka's hands.
"Noooooo...I do not dance!" Haruka stated.
"You will now! Come on!" Michiru said.
"Come on Haruka-chan! Dance with Michiru-chan!" Hotaru said.
"But..." Haruka started.
"No buts!" Michiru said, putting one arm around Haruka's neck and taking her hand.
"But I dunno how!" Haruka whined.
"Stop whining, and just follow my lead," Michiru said.
"See, you can dance, Haruka," Michiru said after a while.
Haruka made a *whatever* noise and rolled her eyes.
"You're so funny," Michiru said.
Haruka ignored her, trying to be angry that she was dancing.
"Haruka, don't try to ignore me...it's not going to work. You are dancing with me after all," Michiru said trying to get Haruka to look at her.
Haruka remained silent, but couldn't help smiling at little.
"Ha! You're smiling! You're enjoying this! Who did a good job?" Michiru exclaimed.
"Oh, shut up..." Haruka said trying not to smile but she couldn't help it.
"You do like it! I know it!" Michiru said, bothering Haruka.
"No, I don't," Haruka said.
Michiru looked at her.
"Well, maybe it's ok....." Haruka started.
"I told you! I told you!" Michiru said, proud of her accomplishments.
"Do you ever shut up?" Haruka asked laughing, even though she was trying to keep a straight face.
"Nope!" Michiru said, acting like a child.
"Sure..." Haruka said kissing her. That shut her up. Michiru kissed her back hard, and Haruka was lost in the kiss, but suddenly she felt a tugging on her dress.
"Haruka-chan?" Hotaru whispered.
"Oh! Hotaru-chan!" Haruka said suprised. She had forgotten Hotaru was there.
"What is it, Hotaru-chan?" Michiru asked.
"Someone's coming..." Hotaru said. Right away they heard, "Haruka! Michiru-chan! Hotaru-chan!" It was Queen Uranus.
"We're here!" Haruka said taking her arms from around Michiru's waist.
"It's dinnertime!" Queen Uranus said, appearing.
"Dinner? But we haven't had lunch!" Hotaru said.
"Oh, the conference took longer than expected. You three must be hungry! And you're soaked! Come inside! What possessed you to stay out in the rain?" Queen Uranus started.
"I'll go to my room and change," Michiru said hurrying off.
"Hotaru-chan, you should change too. I'll see you at dinner, ok?" Haruka asked.
"K! Thanks for a wonderful time, Haruka-chan! You and Michiru-chan are the best!" Hotaru said as she ran off.
"Come and change too, Harkuka! Uh, what an insane daughter I have!" Queen Uranus muttered something as they walked to their room.
Dinner was the usual. Former Queen Selenity complaining about something or other. Haruka wasn't really paying attention. Then again, she never really paid attention.
"Haruka-chan..." Setsuna said out of breath.
"Setsuna-chan? What is it?" Haruka asked worried.
"A few problems at the gates. Nothing that will cause major problems. I gotta go. Do you mind keeping Hotaru-chan in your room for the night? She's been having nightmares..." Setsuna said.
"It's ok,I don't mind," Haruka said.
"Thank you," Setsuna said disapearing in a cloud of black smoke.
"Come on, Hotaru-chan, let's go into the sitting room place thingy," Haruka said not knowing what the room was called.
"Huh? Ok..." Hotaru said confused. "WAIT! I WANT MICHIRU-CHAN TO COME!" Hotaru shouted.
"You'll have to ask her father," Haruka said.
"Ok!" Hotaru said skipping off.
"No wait! I don't think it's a good idea..." Haruka started, but it was too late. She ran to catch up with Hotaru. She found her about to knock on the door.
"Hota..." Haruka started. Hotaru knocked.
King Neptune opened to door and smiled when he saw cute little Hotaru standing there. Then he looked up to see Haruka looking scared.
"What do you want?" he growled.
"Hi, King Neptune! I'm Hotaru!" Hotaru said.
"Hello, little one!" King Neptune said forgetting about Haruka.
" I wanna know if Michiru-chan can play!" Hotaru said.
"Sure, that'll be fine. Just get her back in one piece," he said ruffling Hotaru's hair.
"'K!" Hotaru said happily.
"Michiru! Hotaru-chan is here to see you!" he called out.
"Oh?" Haruka heard Michiru say. "I'll be there in a few minutes! Hold on!"
"So...Tenoh, what brings you here?" King Neptune said less nicely.
"Oh, I'm in charge of Hotaru-chan tonight. Setsuna-chan had business at the Time Gates," Haruka said.
" I see...Hotaru-chan, what planet are you from? Pluto?" King Neptune asked.
"I forgot to properly introduce myself! I'm Princess Of Saturn, Tomoe Hotaru!" Hotaru said.
"Saturn? I knew you're mother...You're such a lively child. Different from the others..." King Neptune started.
Haruka cleared her throat so that King Neptune wouldn't go on. She didn't think Hotaru should know about things like that...even though it would soon start happening to her.
"Hotaru-chan, I'm ready!" Michiru announced as she walked up to the door. "Haruka....-chan. Haruka-chan!" Michiru exclaimed.
Her father nodded approvingly and shut the door.
"Michiru-chan! Let's go to the...sitting room place thingy!" Hotaru said.
"Ok..." Michiru said confused as the where that was.
Hotaru led both of them to her room first, though.
" I want someone to read to me! Lemme get my book, k?"
"Sure," Haruka said.
Hotaru got her book and then led them to the "sitting room place thingy".
"What book do you have there?" Michiru asked.
"The Book of the Dead! It's my favorite bed time story!" Hotaru exclaimed.
"What?!?! Where'd you get that thing from?" Michiru asked.
"Mommy gave it to me...the day she died..." Hotaru said sadly.
"Oh, Hotaru-chan, I'm sorry," Haruka said.
"It's ok!" Hotaru said cheerfully. "Michiru-chan, can you read it to me?"
"I don't think it's a good idea to read that book," Haruka said.
"I asked Setsuna-chan and she said it was ok," Hotaru stated.
"Ok, then..." Haruka said.
"Hotaru-chan, I don't know if I can read this, but do you want me to tell you a story?" Michiru asked.
"Ok!" Hotaru exclaimed.
"This was my favorite bedtime story when I was a kid..." Michiru started.
Haruka sat listening to Michiru's tale, but more watching her then anything. She noticed how her eyes lit up when she smiled, or how she repeatedly tucked back the same strand of hair that kept falling into her face, or how her hands moved making gestures as she told the tale.
"And they lived happily ever after..." Michiru concluded. "Oh, look Haruka, she's asleep," Michiru said looking at the sleeping child who looked like an angel.
Haruka smiled, and put her arm around Michiru.
"You know," Michiru said, "I've always wished for a child of my own...someone like Hotaru-chan...To take care of and love. It would be so nice."
Haruka looked down to the floor knowing that if they ever were together, she could never grant Michiru's wish. Michiru noticed Haruka's unhappy stare at the floor.
"But my number one wish, Haruka, is to be with you," Michiru said laying her head on the blonde's shoulder.
Haruka forced a smile, but was sad because Michiru didn't deserve someone like her. She deserved someone better.
"Haruka, I love you and that's all that matters. You're the only one I want to be with," Michiru said as if reading Haruka's mind.
"Michiru, I'm sorry," Haruka said.
"For what?" Michiru sat up and looked into Haruka's eyes searching for answers.
"For...for existing. For bringing you into this mess...for everything!" Haruka said almost a bit too loudly.
"Don't be sorry, Haruka! I love you and if you didn't exist...well...I could never imagine how it would be if I never met you!"
"It would be better for you," Haruka said.
"No, it would be worse. I would never meet a true love if I would never have met you," Michiru said.
"Michiru?"
"Hai?"
"Aishiteru."
"Aishiteru, Haruka," Michiru said kissing Haruka softly. Haruka returned the kiss, but broke it when she felt Hotaru move.
"Haruka-papa?" Hotaru said sleepily.
Haruka sat shocked, staring at Hotaru. Michiru smiled.
"Michiru-mama?" Hotaru asked again.
"Hai, Hotaru-chan? What is it?" Michiru asked lovingly, stroking the little girl's silky hair.
"Can I go up to bed now?" Hotaru asked.
"Sure," Haruka said.
Haruka picked Hotaru up and started carrying her towards her room. She fell asleep in her arms.
They reached the room and quietly walked in. Queen Uranus wasn't there.
Haruka put Hotaru down on her bed and covered her with a blanket so she wouldn't get cold.
"Goodnight, Haruka-papa, Michiru-mama," Hotaru said.
"Goodnight, Hotaru-chan," Michiru said, kissing the already sleeping girl on the forehead.
"Haruka...she...I...she called me her Michiru-mama," Michiru said tears forming in her eyes.
Haruka smiled, taking Michiru into her arms. "I guess you have a child now," Haruka whispered.
"So do you, Haruka. She's our child. And Setsuna's," Michiru said.
"Are you happy, Michiru?"
"As long as I am with you I'm happy," Michiru replied.
Haruka kissed the beautiful senshi of the ocean and said, "Maybe you should get going, just incase..."
"Ya. Goodnight, Haruka," Michiru said walking out the door. Haruka stood there watching the closed door for a while before changing into her nightgown and getting into bed beside Hotaru. As she was about to close her eyes she heard Hotaru say, "Haruka-papa?"
"Hotaru-chan? You're still awake?"
"Ya...Haruka-papa?"
"Hai, Hotaru-chan?"
"Do you love Michiru-mama?"
"Yes. I do. So much, Hotaru-chan. I love her so very much,"
"Haruka-papa...love like that is precious...you should never let it go..."
"I don't want to but..."
"But what, Haruka-papa? You two will always be together, right?" Hotaru asked.
"Hotaru-chan, when you're older you'll understand that some people think people like me and Michiru shouldn't be together, and well, they don't allow it and..." Haruka started.
"Why? You love eachother! Haruka-papa! You and Michiru-mama have to be together!" Hotaru almost shouted.
"Hotaru-chan," Haruka whispered, tears starting to run down her cheeks, "I wish all people were like you. So understanding...but Hotaru-chan, some people don't understand..."
"Haruka-papa, don't cry..." Hotaru said, her little fingers wiping the tears from Haruka's cheeks.
"Hotaru-chan, you're the sweetest little girl in the universe, you know that? I'm glad to be your Haruka-papa."
"I'm glad you're my Haruka-papa and I want you to always be my Haruka-papa and I want Michiru-mama to always be my Michiru-mama! Please, can we be together always?"
"Yes..." Haruka said.
"Promise, Haruka-papa?"
"I promise. We will always be together."
"Thank you." Hotaru said closing her eyes.
***********************
Queen Uranus stood outside the door, listening to the whole conversation. Shaking her head sadly, she walked in the see Hotaru and Haruka sound asleep.
********************************
Well, that's part 5. WAIT DON'T LEAVE! THIS IS A MUST READ! I think some of you are wondering if Setsuna was reborn...well wouldn't it be weird if she was cuz she had been the guardian for such a long time and then all of a sudden to be reborn again? I don't think so...she here's what happened...Her mother...who was appointed by Former Queen Selenity to make them be reborn, knew that she couldn't let Setsuna start over, so instead she just erased those 16 years of memory and that's all there was too it. that means setsuna doesn't know that Hotaru and Haruka and Michiru were reborn. Isn't Setsuna's mother smart? Oh...and don' t mind Cook Yoda...she's just a jolly little cook that i stuck in the plot...i like her..not in that way...o and i'm starting to like former queen selenity...she's a funny one, don'tcha think? well thats all bye!
Part 5
Author: DarkOuters7
E-mail: DarkOuters7@yahoo.com
Rating: pg-13
Here's part 5!!! And guess who returns! Yes! It's the one and only, Former Queen Selenity! Less seriousness in this one...Once again I'd like to thank KoujoKakyuu for being my devoted editor ^^...well email me with comments and complaints!
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Haruka woke up the next morning to see her mother already up. She went into the bathroom to take a quick shower and then quickly got dressed in another one of her blue dresses. She silently followed her mother to the breakfast table where everyone was chatting happily. She saw Michiru sitting across from her.
She smiled weakly at Michiru. Michiru sadly glanced back at her then looked away. Haruka's little smile faded. She tried to get Michiru to look at her again but it didn't work. She noticed a big bruise on Michiru's cheek. Subconciously, her hand went to her own cheek. The King and Queen of Neptune were trying to act happy but Haruka could tell it was all fake. Her own mother sat eating her breakfast silently.
The discussion hopped from stargazing to cooking to fashion. Nothing Haruka was interested in. She looked at Michiru again, and Michiru looked at her for a second before studying the table again. Haruka felt someone staring at her and looked to see Setsuna.
Setsuna looked at her sadly. Haruka returned the sad glance and studied the table herself. Breakfast finished and the Kings and Queens went into a conference room to talk. Queen Neptune excused herself for a moment though, and took Michiru away somewhere. She came back down alone a few minutes later. Queen Uranus grabbed Haruka's arm and took her to their room.
"Stay in here," she growled and walked out. Haruka could hear the door being locked from the outside. It was a heavy wooden door and Haruka knew she had no chance of breaking it down. She looked to the window. There was a balcony that she had not noticed before. She went out to see if there was anyway of going into another room. There was no way. Sighing sadly she made her way to her bed and lay down. Sleep was out of the question. She knew she was too awake for sleep. She lay there throwing the pillow up in the air and catching it hoping her mother would come let her out soon. She wondered when the next time she would see Michiru was going to be...
**********************
Michiru sat on her bed and stared angrily at the floor, scolding herself for not smiling back at Haruka.
"It must have hurt Haruka. I should have smiled! I know things are so bad but I at least should have smiled!" she said out loud.
She wondered if she could make the 10 foot jump to the next door balcony and get out into the halls by that room. She walked out to the balcony and looked at the distance again. She wished she could have her senshi powers already, for she knew that it would be much easier as Sailor Neptune. She was only in training though, and she didn't have her full powers yet.
"Maybe I can do it though. And if I don't make it, so what? We can't be together anyway!" Michiru said.
She took a deep breath and prepared to jump.
"Michiru-chan!" she heard someone call. She turned to see Setsuna standing on the balcony on the other side of hers.
"Setsuna-chan! Let me out! Please!" Michiru called out.
"Michiru-chan don't jump! You won't make it!" Setsuna said.
"Let me out!" Michiru shouted.
"I can't. Just don't jump ok? Promise me!" Setsuna shouted.
Michiru didn't answer.
"Promise! Now!" Setsuna shouted again.
"I promise," Michiru said briefly glancing at Setsuna.
"Good. The conference will be over soon and then it'll be lunch. You'll see eachother then," and with that Setsuna left.
Michiru sighed and went back into the room.
***************************
Lunch came and Michiru was very eager to see Haruka.
"And then I said, what dog? HAHAHAHA!" Queen Venus laughed.
Everyone else laughed politely.
"AHHH!! Mini fire!!" the Chef shouted. Everyone rushed into the kitchen.
Michiru stayed behind. She saw Haruka getting up but not to rush into the kitchen but to rush to her.
"Haruka!" Michiru exclaimed kissing her.
Haruka kissed her back and said,"Michiru, this is so horrible!"
"Haruka..."Michiru said sadly, "Mother and Father are marrying me off as soon as we go home."
"WHAT?!" Haruka's shouted.
"Haruka, I don't want to marry anyone but you! I love you and they are just taking you away from me!" Michiru shouted.
"I don't know what to do, Michiru...I..." but Haruka couldn't finish. She heard everyone coming back. Quickly, she ran to her seat. She sighed with relief when she saw that the Queen and King of Neptune and her mother didn't realize that they had left her and Michiru alone.
"That chef," Former Queen Selenity started, "is always burning the food! I told Serenity to get rid of her, but no! Serenity loves that one! Well, I hope she burns herself sometime! Then I can eat good food!"
"Mother! What cruel thoughts! Her food is very delicious!" Queen Serenity said.
"Yes, very yummy!" King Tamaonokoshi said.
"Oh, do shut up King! You have no idea what good food is!" Former Queen Selenity started.
"My food is good!" the King shouted.
Former Queen Selenity remained silent at that. Afer a few moments she said, "I guess your food is ok..."
"I TOLD YOU! HEHE!" the King shouted.
Everyone else was sitting there uncomfortably listening to the Royal Family of the Moon argue.
Haruka sighed, ignoring the shouts of help from King Tamaonokoshi as Former Queen Selenity attempted to strangle him.
' I have to get away from all this and I have to get Michiru to come with me! I just can't stay here anymore!' Haruka was busy thinking up ways to run away when the King Tamaonokoshi came falling onto her.
Haruka just blinked.
"Uh...excuse me....WAAAAAAAAAA" the King started crying.
"Oh dear!" Queen Serenity shouted running to the King. She helped him up and back to his seat.
"So sorry, Princess Uranus," Queen Serenity apologized.
"It's ok," Haruka said.
"Hmph! I'm going to my room! I can't stand eating with that idiot!" Former Queen Selenity said pointing to King Tamaonokoshi and walking away.
"Excuse my mother. You know how old women are. Always cranky and demanding something from you," Queen Serenity said.
"Yes, my grandma..." Queen Venus started.
Haruka spaced out again. She wished that she could just go home, but she realized that if she left she would probably never see Michiru again. She sighed and wished that lunch would never end.
Haruka felt something attack her hair. She looked up to see Michiru smiling holding peas. Haruka angrily grabbed a handful and without thinking threw them at Michiru. But something went wrong. Instead they went straight to Michiru's mother, Queen Neptune. A gasp arose from the table and everyone stared at Haruka. Her mother was about to open her mouth to yell at her but a glob of mashed potatoes hit her in the mouth. Yet another gasp arose and all eyes went to Hotaru who was giggling and holding another glob of the mashed potatoes. Queen Uranus stood up, took her plate, and attempted to dump it on Hotaru's head but instead Queen Serenity got in the way, and her white gown was covered in different kinds of foods. King Tamaonokoshi laughed and shouted, "Food fight!" Soon food was flying everywhere and it seemed everyone was having fun. Haruka poured lemonade all over Michiru's head laughing the whole time. Michiru glared at her angrily and dumped the bowl of ice down Haruka's dress. Haruka was attempting to get the icecubes out, looking very strange while she was doing it, when Former Queen Selenity walked in and slipped on one of the icecubes.
"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" she screamed. She fell to the ground and attempted to get up but was hit in the head by a whole turkey. King Tamaonokoshi started laughing.
"What is going on here?!?!?!?!?" Former Queen Selenity shouted.
All movement stopped. "Who started this?" Former Queen Selenity growled.
All eyes moved to Haruka. Haruka shook her head and pointed to Michiru. Michiru shook her head and pointed back to Haruka.
"It seems both of you started it! Come with me, this instant! The rest of you, go to your rooms! No fun for you today!" Former Queen Selenity shouted.
No one seemed to take Former Queen Selenity's word seriously. How could she be bossing Queens and Kings around like that?
"I SAID GO!!!" Former Queen shouted.
Everyone scrambled to their rooms. Haruka and Michiru stayed behind though, and were led to a small room by Former Queen Selenity.
"SIT!" she shouted pointing to a couch that appeared out of nowhere.
They sat.
"Now, what right do you as guests have to starting a food fight and messing up the dining room?" she asked.
"Uh..." Haruka started.
"None. We are dreadfully sorry for our behavior. I don't know what possessed us," Michiru said.
"Very polite young lady, Princess...?"
"Princess of Neptune Kaioh Michiru," Michiru said standing up, curtsying, and once again taking her seat on the couch.
"And you are?" Former Queen Selenity asked Haruka.
"Uh...Princess of Uranus, Tenoh Haruka," she bowed.
"Bowing? A girl does not bow! Curtsy for me!" Former Queen Selenity demanded.
Michiru laughed quietly while Haruka attempted a curtsy.
"Very well. I guess that will do. Now, for your punishments...hmmm...let me think..." Former Queen Selenity said pacing around the room.
"Mary had a little lamb, little lamb little lamb. Mary had a little lamb it's fleece was white as snow..." Former Queen sang as she thought.
Haruka burst out laughing. Michiru bowed her head down, her hair covering her face so her smile would not be seen.
"Princess Uranus! How dare you laugh at me?!?!" Former Queen Selenity shouted.
"Sorry, it's just..." Haruka started but once again Michiru came to her rescue.
"We haven't heard that song in ages and it just brings back memories, you know? Those were the days," Michiru said.
Haruka had to try very hard to stop herself from laughing again.
"Ah, yes. Those days when I was young and beautiful (Not that I'm not beautiful right now but I was much younger then)," Former Queen Selenity started.
Haruka sighed knowing she was in for a long story.
"I would hop and dance among the butterflies! Oh what fun it was..."
Haruka felt her eyes slowly drooping. Sleep had overcome her when she felt a sharp jab in her side. She awoke alert.
"And the horses would eat the hay..." Former Queen Selenity was saying.
Michiru was pretending to listen intently and nodding every once in a while.
Haruka's eyes slowly drooped again, and once again a sharp jab in her side brought her back.
Michiru glared at her before going back to listening to Former Queen.
"The roses smelled wonderful..."
Haruka decided it was a wonderful time to think of ways to get away. She could always knock the Former Queen out and make a run for it with Michiru but she decided that she shouldn't dare. She was in enough trouble already.
"And then I married that bastard and my life came to an end. Now I just sit around..."
' And boss people about,' Haruka added in her thoughts.
"But enough about me! Back to your punishment! Where was I? Oh yes...And everywhere that Mary went, Mary went, Mary went..."
Michiru heaved a big sigh of relief.
"I've got it!" Former Queen Selenity exclaimed after a few more minutes. "You two have to perform for the guests at the good-bye ball we're having! Make giant fools of yourselves infront of everyone! Wonderful! The ball is tomorrow night, as everyone is leaving in two days, so you better practice!!" and she pushed them out giggling to herself about what a wonderful mind she had.
King and Queen Neptune were waiting for them outside the door.
"We're here to get our daughter," King Neptune said, glaring at Haruka.
"Oh...I have to practice my act with Haruka for the ball though," Michiru said trying to make it sound like she didn't want to although she was grateful for a chance to be with Haruka.
"Oh? Is this their punishment, Former Queen Selenity?" Queen Neptune asked.
"Yes, and a rather good one if you ask me," Former Queen Selenity replied.
"Well, then Princess Uranus, come to our room and you and Michiru can discuss your act," Queen Neptune said.
"Ok," Haruka replied.
They walked silently to where the Royal Family of Neptune was staying.
"So, Haruka, do you play any instruments?" Michiru asked.
"Uh...ya. I play the piano..." Haruka answered.
"Oh? How delightful! Isn't that delightful, dear?" Queen Neptune asked her husband.
"Yes, whatever," the King replied rudely.
"I play the violin. Maybe we should play together for our act," Michiru said.
"Yes great idea. I heard there's a piano on the stage in the ballroom. Can we go there?" Haruka asked Queen Neptune.
"Yes, good idea." Queen Neptune replied.
Haruka and Michiru walked ahead of King and Queen Neptune.
"Play horribly, ok Haruka?" Michiru whispered.
"Why? You want me to make a worse impression on your parents then I already have?" Haruka whispered back.
"No, I'll play horribly too, ok?" Michiru asked.
"Ok..." Haruka said.
They walked into the ballroom and Haruka took a seat on the piano bench. Michiru summoned her violin and it appeared before her.
"Ok, what shall we play?" Michiru asked.
"Why don't you start with the violin and I'll come in with the piano?" Haruka asked.
"Ok..." Michiru said tuning her violin. Her parents took a seat on some of the chairs that had been left from the last ball.
Michiru started with the violin playing beautifully. At first Haruka was angry that Michiru wasn't playing badly, but soon the music took over her mind. It was so sad and full of pain and misery. Haruka had to try very hard to stop the tears from coming. She noticed Michiru was crying.
She was so into the music and the emotions that were sounding from it that she didn't realize it had stopped.
"Haruka? Haruka?" Michiru asked.
"Huh? What? Why did you stop?" Haruka asked.
"You have to start in with the piano, remember?" Michiru said.
"Huh? Oh, ya....but I don't think I can play with anything that sad," Haruka said.
"Oh, sorry. I'll try to liven it up," Michiru said.
She started playing again, the same sad tune with a faster beat. Then the violin squeaked loudly.
"Michiru! A squeak! Have you not been practicing lately?" her father asked.
"Oh, sorry Father," Michiru said. She started playing again, with little squeaks every now and then.
Haruka joined in with the piano, and at first her tune was going along wonderfully with Michiru's but then she started pounding on the keys and pressing them randomly. Michiru started squeaking again. It sounded more like someone's cries of agony then music.
Michiru's mother covered her ears. A pained expression grew on her face. Michiru's father was shaking his head in disgust.
"I do believe you two have a lot of work to do," Queen Neptune said.
"We'll leave you be. We have other things to do than listen to that racket!" King Neptune said leading his wife out the door.
Silently, Haruka and Michiru watched them hurry out.
"Yes! It worked!" Haruka exclaimed.
"Now we have time to talk," Michiru said.
"We should at least practice," Haruka suggested even though she didn't want to. She didn't need her mother to lecture her on playing the piano badly.
"No, you played wonderfully before I started squeaking. We were playing along just fine. I think that whatever I play you can find something to go with it, but we need to talk about other things," Michiru said.
"Yes, like what we are going to do," Haruka said.
"Haruka, I've been thinking. Do you think the Earth would be a friendly place for us?" Michiru asked.
"The Earth?! Are you crazy?! Have you heard the stories that come from there! Wars and battles with overpowerful gods and such horrible things! The Earth would be one of the worst places for us to go."
"Then what?" Michiru asked sadly.
Haruka didn't reply. After a few moments of silence, Michiru picked up her violin and started playing the sad tune again, but this time it was very slow, and every note seemed like a desperate cry for help. Haruka found herself crying, and not able to think clearly.
"Would Setsuna-chan help us hide on Pluto?" Michiru asked stopping the music.
"No. I mean she's our friend and all, but she knows it isn't right. She'll tell us to stay with our paths in life," Haruka said.
"Will the Princess of Death let us find refuge on her planet?" Michiru said referring to Hotaru, who she hadn't known personally.
A thought came to Haruka. "If the Princess of Death won't, I know what will," Haruka said.
Silence echoed through the room. Once again, Michiru picked up her violin playing the sad tune that brought tears to Haruka's eyes. Minutes passed, which became hours, while Haruka sat listening to Michiru's beautiful song.
'Funny how such misery can be so beautiful,' Haruka thought to herself.
The eerie beauty of the song was abruptly ended when Haruka's mother walked in.
Michiru looked up startled. She had been so into her song that she had lost conciousness of her surroundings.
The silence that encircled the room was growing awkward.
"Mother?" Haruka asked as she watched her mother stand before her, not saying a word.
"Oh, yes, uh...it's soon to be dinnertime. I want you to come get ready," Haruka's mother said.
"Oh? I lost track of time..." Haruka said.
"I trust your mother will be wanting you back, too, Princess Neptune," Haruka's mother said to Michiru.
"Yes, I'll be going now," Michiru said hurrying out of the room.
Haruka silently followed her mother.
"Michiru plays beautifully," Haruka's mother said, breaking the silence.
"Ya...it's so...hypnotizing, especially when..." Haruka started but stopped herself.
"Expecially when what?"
"When...you feel that same pain..." Haruka said.
Her mother replied with silence.
"Oh dear! And what is that you're wearing Serenity dear?" Former Queen Selenity exclaimed as she walked into the dining room.
"A dress, mother..." Queen Serenity replied, embarrased.
"Do you think I'm blind?? I see it's a dress! But what a horrid color!" Former Queen said.
"Mother, it's black..." Queen Serenity said.
"BLACK!?!?! I see that... A MOON QUEEN DOES NOT WEAR BLACK! WHO DIED??" Former Queen shouted.
"No one..I just like black..." Queen Selenity said.
"Do you think my dress is horrid too?" Setsuna asked Former Queen Selenity.
Haruka gasped. Setsuna was not the kind of person to say that.
"Oh, well...black goes with you..." Former Queen said.
"But not with me, mother?" Queen Serenity said.
"Well...uh...oh...Look at the time! I have to go!" she said as she ran out the room.
"She forgot to eat her dinner..." King Tamaonokoshi stated.
"By the way, it is very delicious..." Queen Mercury said.
********************************
Michiru tried to pay attention to the conversation, but her mind kept going to Haruka's words. "If the Princess of Death won't, I know what will..."
She looked over to Haruka, to see if she could get any thoughts from her, but Haruka was busy staring into the distance. Dinner ended, and everyone sighed with relief when Former Queen Selenity didn't appear.
They sighed too soon. Former Queen Selenity waltzed in holding her head high and glaring at anyone who dared to stay in her way.
"Serenity, darling, would you kindly take your guests out of this room? I need to eat in peace," she said glaring at everyone.
"Of course mother. Everyone please take this night off from your duties. I think we need a break. Two conferences in one day is just too much. Our next one will be tomorrow after breakfast," Queen Serenity said.
Everyone nodded, understanding, and left for their rooms.
"Princess Uranus? Princess Uranus...?? Princess Uranus!?!!!!" Haruka spun around to face Queen Neptune.
"Uh......" Haruka started saying.
"Princess, I want to say that I'm...." she started but was interrupted by her husband.
"We need to go, dear," he said glaring at Haruka, and led Queen Neptune away.
Haruka watched as King Neptune grabbed Michiru's arm and led her away too.
"Well, since she's locked up I guess it wouldn't hurt for you to be able to walk around. I'll be in Queen Serenity's room discussing some things if you need me, although why you might I'll never know," and with that Queen Uranus walked away.
Sighing, Haruka walked over to where Michiru's room was. She didn't know what else to do. As she was about to knock she heard King Neptune yelling.
"I saw you looking at that girl at dinner today! And you started that food fight too! How many times do I have to tell you to be polite!?? You must be the most misbehaving Princess in the Galaxy, not counting that excuse for a Princess, Tenoh! Why..."
"Shut up bastard just shut up! Haruka is the best person in the world! I love her more than I could ever love you!" Michiru shouted.
Haruka leaned against the door, wide-eyed, even though she knew that eves-dropping was wrong.
"You little...I'll get you! And did that bitch teach you this too?" King Neptune shouted.
"Stop fighting!" Queen Neptune was heard shouting.
"Why? You'll never stop fighting with me!" Michiru shouted.
Silence. Then a slap was heard followed by Queen Neptune saying, "How could you do that to you're own daughter? How could you possibly hurt her like this?"
"Father, I hate you," Michiru spat out. Haruka knew that it came straight from the heart.
Haruka could hear someone storming to the door. She ran like never before back to her room, without looking back once, hoping that she hadn't been seen.
She ran in and slammed the door behind her.
"Haruka?!?!" Queen Uranus exclaimed when she saw her daughter leaning by the door panting.
"Mother? Oh, I didn't know you were in here..."
"WHAT WERE YOU DOING??"
"Nothing." Haruka said sounding a little too reasurring.
"TELL ME! GETTING INTO MORE TROUBLE, AREN'T YOU?" Queen Uranus shouted.
"I'm tired. I think I should be getting to sleep..." Haruka said.
"You are not sleeping until you tell me what is going on! I see that guilty disturbed look on your face!"
"Huh?" Haruka said trying to look tired.
"Haruka! You...URGH! Go to sleep then!" Queen Uranus shouted.
Quietly Haruka got ready for bed. When she came out of the bathroom, she noticed her mother was gone. Hoping that she wasn't trying to investigate what Haruka had been doing, she got into bed, but she just couldn't sleep.
' Michiru knew what I was talking about. She didn't object to it. Why is that the only option? Because it isn't the only option. We could always just go our separate ways, but I can't imagine not living with Michiru. I mean...urgh...stupid world! It just doesn't care!' Haruka thought.
The sound of the door creaking open brought Haruka out of her thoughts.
"Haruka, are you awake?" someone whispered.
"UHHHHHH...ya....." Haruka said not knowing who was at the door.
The person slowly closed the door and walked in over to Haruka's bed. Moonlight illuminated her face.
"Michiru?" Haruka asked, sitting up. "How did you get in here?"
"They can't lock me up in the room like an animal," Michiru said angrily.
"I heard...well...I was..." Haruka started.
"I know," Michiru said.
"HUH? HOW?" Haruka asked in panic, wondering if anyone else knew.
"Haruka, I know a lot...too much, really," Michiru said.
"Michiru, do you know if there is another way?"
"No," came the quick reply.
Silence.
Haruka heard a sigh.
"Haruka, where did your mother go?" Michiru asked.
"Who cares..." Haruka said, pulling Michiru close to her and holding her tightly.
Michiru didn't resist, but she said, "Haruka, if she comes in..."
Haruka wanted to say, 'So what if she comes in? It doesn't matter anymore if we're seen together,' but she didn't want Michiru to be punished further. She didn't care about her own punishment. She only cared about her Michiru.
"I guess you should go now, then," Haruka said sadly, taking her arms from around Michiru's waist. "You're parents did know you were out though, right?" Haruka asked worried that Michiru was going to be in more trouble.
"Yes. They decided that since you were locked up that I could roam around for a while. You weren't locked up though. The door was open and unlocked," Michiru said.
"My mother thought I was sleeping," Haruka said.
"And she still thinks you are. I better go..." Michiru said.
Briefly kissing Haruka goodnight, Michiru walked out the room, and slowly closed the door behind her. She heard voices approaching and she hurried back to her room.
Haruka could hear two women talking infront of the room. One was her mother, and the other sounding like Queen Neptune.
She could only hear bits of the conversation.
"Sad....locked....deserted...I wished....normal...." Queen Neptune said.
"...late..us....them..." Queen Uranus said.
Nothing was said, and the Queen Uranus walked in. Haruka wasn't sure if it was real or just her imagination, but she thought she could see tears in her mother's eyes.
***************************
"I can't wait for the ball tomorrow night! It will be such a lovely event!" Queen Mars said.
"Yes, it will be, although I will miss all of you dearly. These past few days together have been wonderful!" Queen Serenity said.
"I could do without a few of you," Former Queen Selenity stated. No one answered.
"Um...yes I will miss you, Queen Serenity. I love staying at this palace. It's so beautiful!" Queen Venus said.
"And guess who will entertain us for some of the ball!" Former Queen Selenity interrupted. "Our very own Princess Neptune and Princess Uranus!"
"Oh how delightful!" Queen Mercury exclaimed.
"What will you guys be playing?" Setsuna asked.
"Well, um..." Haruka started.
"Haruka will be playing the piano and I will be playing the violin," Michiru said.
"Cool!" Hotaru exclaimed.
Former Queen Selenity's smile faded. Michiru sounded so confident.
"UH....well..." Former Queen said trying to change the conversation.
"Sorry to interrupt, mother, but I believe that we should have our conference now," Queen Selenity said. Everyone nodded standing up and following Queen Serenity.
"Do you mind taking care of Hotaru? I'll be needed in the conference," Setsuna asked Haruka.
"No problem," Haruka said taking Hotaru's hand.
"Setsuna-chan, don't they need me, though? I am the only ruler on Saturn..." Hotaru said.
"Yes, but you are far too young to understand. I'll try to make the best desicions for you, ok?" Setsuna asked.
"Ok!" Hotaru said cheerfully.
"Obviously Tenoh will be busy so you won't have to be locked up, Michiru," King Neptune said as he walked by Haruka.
Michiru stayed quiet watching her father and mother disappear down the halls.
"Would you like to help me take care of Hotaru?" Haruka asked Michiru.
"Sure," Michiru said.
"Great. So, Hotaru, what..." Haruka started.
"LET'S GO INTO THE KITCHEN! THE COOK SHOWED ME THE COOLEST TRICK!" Hotaru shouted.
"Ok..." Haruka said.
They walked into the kitchen to see the cook whistling and running around keeping everything under control.
"Uh...excuse me...cook..." Michiru started then looked at her name tag, "Cook Yoda,"
"Yes? Oh, my little death princess!" Cook Yoda exclaimed when she saw Hotaru.
"Hi Cookie-chan!" Hotaru exclaimed.
"I just made some cookies! Come sit down and eat!"
Haruka and Hotaru both grabbed handfuls and stuffed them in their mouths while Michiru took one and politely nibbled on it.
"Delicious?" Cook Yoda asked.
"YESH!" Haruka and Hotaru exclaimed cookie crumbs flying out of their mouths.
"HAHA, yes I'm glad you like them. I have more sweets for you to sample!" Cook Yoda said.
"But you dear thin girl!" Cook Yoda said to Michiru, "You only had one! Did you not like them?"
"Oh they were absolutely delicious, " Michiru said.
"You just don't wanna be fat like me, do you? I understand! Eat! Once will not hurt you!" Cook Yoda said.
' It doesn't matter anyway,' Michiru thought grabbing a handful and stuffing them into her mouth.
"That's the way, Michiru," Haruka said smiling.
Cook Yoda continued bringing samples of the sweets that the palace had and the three Outer Senshi enjoyed them all.
"You know," Cook Yoda said as she sat down at the table with them, "It's been so long since we had children in this palace. Queen Serenity was such a wonderful child, but she's all grown up now. And there's never any young princesses when the Inners come by, and the Outers visiting like this is so rare..."
"Don't worry. A child unlike any other will soon roam the halls of this palace," Hotaru said quietly.
Haruka and Michiru looked at Hotaru strangely but Cook Yoda said, "I'm glad! You know the last time the Outers came, none of you were born! Setsuna was...well Setsuna doesn't ever seem to change...I wasn't alive when she was a child, but when I think about it, I don't think any of the people from Pluto are ever really children...from what I've heard anyway..."
"Pluto is a very lonely planet. They are far far away from any of us, and the people there are used to being alone and independant," Haruka said.
"I can't imagine not talking with people from other planets! The Moon is always full of people from other planets and sometimes even other galaxies! You know, recently I talked to this very fascinating young lady from Kinmokusei..that's a very far away star from my understanding..." Cook Yoda said.
"Sounds wonderful to be around so many people," Michiru said.
"Yes, it is..." Cook Yoda replied.
"To have the need to be surrounded by people shows only that you are afraid," Hotaru said.
"Whoa, Hotaru-chan. Stop hanging around Setsuna-chan so much. It rubs off..." Haruka said.
"SORRY!" Hotaru shouted gleefully as she grabbed a handful of cookies.
Michiru studied Hotaru with interest.
' Poor, poor child. She is so happy and cheerful now, but soon, when the time comes, it'll all end...'
"Michiru? Michiru??" Haruka shouted.
"Oh, what?" Michiru asked.
"Hotaru wants to go for a walk. Wanna come?" Haruka asked.
"Oh, sure," Michiru said getting up from the table.
"Thank you Cookie-chan!" Hotaru shouted to the cook.
"Yes, thank you for the delicious food," Michiru said.
"Come visit anytime!" Cook Yoda said.
They walked through the palace gardens. It was very different during the daytime.
"Come on!" Hotaru said grabbing both of their hands when she saw a fountain.
"Slow down, Hotaru-chan!" Michiru exclaimed as the young girl pulled them through the garden.
"Can I go in it, Haruka-pa...chan?" Hotaru asked.
Haruka looked at Hotaru, wondering why she had almost called her Haruka-papa...It had sounded...right...somehow.
"Can I???" Hotaru asked jumping up and down hyperly.
"Uh...sure Hotaru-chan," Haruka said.
"Yay! Michiru-san, do you want to come in with me?" Hotaru asked shyly.
"Call me Michiru-chan...I don't know. My dress will get ruined..." Michiru started.
"Oh come on Michiru! You're the senshi of water and you hesitate to get wet?" Haruka asked.
"Only if you come in, too!" Michiru said.
"No way..." Haruka started.
"Yes! You're coming in!" And with one strong push, Haruka went flying over the edge of the fountain and splashed into it.
"Ow, my back..." Haruka moaned getting up.
Michiru laughed as she gracefully walked in.
"Haruka-chan! Michiru-chan!" Hotaru shouted happily splashing them.
Haruka splashed Hotaru back, and Michiru joined in too. Pretty soon they were all soaked.
Grey clouds began covering the sky.
"It's gonna rain. Maybe we should go back in," Haruka said.
"NO!" Hotaru shouted. "Let's stay out here! Please, Haruka-chan?"
Haruka looked at Hotaru's adorable face and couldn't resist. "Ok, fine."
"Yay! Thank you!" Hotaru said hugging Haruka tightly. Thunder sounded in the distance and rain started pouring down.
"Ok, play in the rain, Hotaru-chan," Haruka said pushing Hotaru off her.
"Yay!" Hotaru exclaimed as she danced around in the rain.
"Good idea, Hotaru-chan. Let's dance, too, Haruka!" Michiru said grabbing Haruka's hands.
"Noooooo...I do not dance!" Haruka stated.
"You will now! Come on!" Michiru said.
"Come on Haruka-chan! Dance with Michiru-chan!" Hotaru said.
"But..." Haruka started.
"No buts!" Michiru said, putting one arm around Haruka's neck and taking her hand.
"But I dunno how!" Haruka whined.
"Stop whining, and just follow my lead," Michiru said.
"See, you can dance, Haruka," Michiru said after a while.
Haruka made a *whatever* noise and rolled her eyes.
"You're so funny," Michiru said.
Haruka ignored her, trying to be angry that she was dancing.
"Haruka, don't try to ignore me...it's not going to work. You are dancing with me after all," Michiru said trying to get Haruka to look at her.
Haruka remained silent, but couldn't help smiling at little.
"Ha! You're smiling! You're enjoying this! Who did a good job?" Michiru exclaimed.
"Oh, shut up..." Haruka said trying not to smile but she couldn't help it.
"You do like it! I know it!" Michiru said, bothering Haruka.
"No, I don't," Haruka said.
Michiru looked at her.
"Well, maybe it's ok....." Haruka started.
"I told you! I told you!" Michiru said, proud of her accomplishments.
"Do you ever shut up?" Haruka asked laughing, even though she was trying to keep a straight face.
"Nope!" Michiru said, acting like a child.
"Sure..." Haruka said kissing her. That shut her up. Michiru kissed her back hard, and Haruka was lost in the kiss, but suddenly she felt a tugging on her dress.
"Haruka-chan?" Hotaru whispered.
"Oh! Hotaru-chan!" Haruka said suprised. She had forgotten Hotaru was there.
"What is it, Hotaru-chan?" Michiru asked.
"Someone's coming..." Hotaru said. Right away they heard, "Haruka! Michiru-chan! Hotaru-chan!" It was Queen Uranus.
"We're here!" Haruka said taking her arms from around Michiru's waist.
"It's dinnertime!" Queen Uranus said, appearing.
"Dinner? But we haven't had lunch!" Hotaru said.
"Oh, the conference took longer than expected. You three must be hungry! And you're soaked! Come inside! What possessed you to stay out in the rain?" Queen Uranus started.
"I'll go to my room and change," Michiru said hurrying off.
"Hotaru-chan, you should change too. I'll see you at dinner, ok?" Haruka asked.
"K! Thanks for a wonderful time, Haruka-chan! You and Michiru-chan are the best!" Hotaru said as she ran off.
"Come and change too, Harkuka! Uh, what an insane daughter I have!" Queen Uranus muttered something as they walked to their room.
Dinner was the usual. Former Queen Selenity complaining about something or other. Haruka wasn't really paying attention. Then again, she never really paid attention.
"Haruka-chan..." Setsuna said out of breath.
"Setsuna-chan? What is it?" Haruka asked worried.
"A few problems at the gates. Nothing that will cause major problems. I gotta go. Do you mind keeping Hotaru-chan in your room for the night? She's been having nightmares..." Setsuna said.
"It's ok,I don't mind," Haruka said.
"Thank you," Setsuna said disapearing in a cloud of black smoke.
"Come on, Hotaru-chan, let's go into the sitting room place thingy," Haruka said not knowing what the room was called.
"Huh? Ok..." Hotaru said confused. "WAIT! I WANT MICHIRU-CHAN TO COME!" Hotaru shouted.
"You'll have to ask her father," Haruka said.
"Ok!" Hotaru said skipping off.
"No wait! I don't think it's a good idea..." Haruka started, but it was too late. She ran to catch up with Hotaru. She found her about to knock on the door.
"Hota..." Haruka started. Hotaru knocked.
King Neptune opened to door and smiled when he saw cute little Hotaru standing there. Then he looked up to see Haruka looking scared.
"What do you want?" he growled.
"Hi, King Neptune! I'm Hotaru!" Hotaru said.
"Hello, little one!" King Neptune said forgetting about Haruka.
" I wanna know if Michiru-chan can play!" Hotaru said.
"Sure, that'll be fine. Just get her back in one piece," he said ruffling Hotaru's hair.
"'K!" Hotaru said happily.
"Michiru! Hotaru-chan is here to see you!" he called out.
"Oh?" Haruka heard Michiru say. "I'll be there in a few minutes! Hold on!"
"So...Tenoh, what brings you here?" King Neptune said less nicely.
"Oh, I'm in charge of Hotaru-chan tonight. Setsuna-chan had business at the Time Gates," Haruka said.
" I see...Hotaru-chan, what planet are you from? Pluto?" King Neptune asked.
"I forgot to properly introduce myself! I'm Princess Of Saturn, Tomoe Hotaru!" Hotaru said.
"Saturn? I knew you're mother...You're such a lively child. Different from the others..." King Neptune started.
Haruka cleared her throat so that King Neptune wouldn't go on. She didn't think Hotaru should know about things like that...even though it would soon start happening to her.
"Hotaru-chan, I'm ready!" Michiru announced as she walked up to the door. "Haruka....-chan. Haruka-chan!" Michiru exclaimed.
Her father nodded approvingly and shut the door.
"Michiru-chan! Let's go to the...sitting room place thingy!" Hotaru said.
"Ok..." Michiru said confused as the where that was.
Hotaru led both of them to her room first, though.
" I want someone to read to me! Lemme get my book, k?"
"Sure," Haruka said.
Hotaru got her book and then led them to the "sitting room place thingy".
"What book do you have there?" Michiru asked.
"The Book of the Dead! It's my favorite bed time story!" Hotaru exclaimed.
"What?!?! Where'd you get that thing from?" Michiru asked.
"Mommy gave it to me...the day she died..." Hotaru said sadly.
"Oh, Hotaru-chan, I'm sorry," Haruka said.
"It's ok!" Hotaru said cheerfully. "Michiru-chan, can you read it to me?"
"I don't think it's a good idea to read that book," Haruka said.
"I asked Setsuna-chan and she said it was ok," Hotaru stated.
"Ok, then..." Haruka said.
"Hotaru-chan, I don't know if I can read this, but do you want me to tell you a story?" Michiru asked.
"Ok!" Hotaru exclaimed.
"This was my favorite bedtime story when I was a kid..." Michiru started.
Haruka sat listening to Michiru's tale, but more watching her then anything. She noticed how her eyes lit up when she smiled, or how she repeatedly tucked back the same strand of hair that kept falling into her face, or how her hands moved making gestures as she told the tale.
"And they lived happily ever after..." Michiru concluded. "Oh, look Haruka, she's asleep," Michiru said looking at the sleeping child who looked like an angel.
Haruka smiled, and put her arm around Michiru.
"You know," Michiru said, "I've always wished for a child of my own...someone like Hotaru-chan...To take care of and love. It would be so nice."
Haruka looked down to the floor knowing that if they ever were together, she could never grant Michiru's wish. Michiru noticed Haruka's unhappy stare at the floor.
"But my number one wish, Haruka, is to be with you," Michiru said laying her head on the blonde's shoulder.
Haruka forced a smile, but was sad because Michiru didn't deserve someone like her. She deserved someone better.
"Haruka, I love you and that's all that matters. You're the only one I want to be with," Michiru said as if reading Haruka's mind.
"Michiru, I'm sorry," Haruka said.
"For what?" Michiru sat up and looked into Haruka's eyes searching for answers.
"For...for existing. For bringing you into this mess...for everything!" Haruka said almost a bit too loudly.
"Don't be sorry, Haruka! I love you and if you didn't exist...well...I could never imagine how it would be if I never met you!"
"It would be better for you," Haruka said.
"No, it would be worse. I would never meet a true love if I would never have met you," Michiru said.
"Michiru?"
"Hai?"
"Aishiteru."
"Aishiteru, Haruka," Michiru said kissing Haruka softly. Haruka returned the kiss, but broke it when she felt Hotaru move.
"Haruka-papa?" Hotaru said sleepily.
Haruka sat shocked, staring at Hotaru. Michiru smiled.
"Michiru-mama?" Hotaru asked again.
"Hai, Hotaru-chan? What is it?" Michiru asked lovingly, stroking the little girl's silky hair.
"Can I go up to bed now?" Hotaru asked.
"Sure," Haruka said.
Haruka picked Hotaru up and started carrying her towards her room. She fell asleep in her arms.
They reached the room and quietly walked in. Queen Uranus wasn't there.
Haruka put Hotaru down on her bed and covered her with a blanket so she wouldn't get cold.
"Goodnight, Haruka-papa, Michiru-mama," Hotaru said.
"Goodnight, Hotaru-chan," Michiru said, kissing the already sleeping girl on the forehead.
"Haruka...she...I...she called me her Michiru-mama," Michiru said tears forming in her eyes.
Haruka smiled, taking Michiru into her arms. "I guess you have a child now," Haruka whispered.
"So do you, Haruka. She's our child. And Setsuna's," Michiru said.
"Are you happy, Michiru?"
"As long as I am with you I'm happy," Michiru replied.
Haruka kissed the beautiful senshi of the ocean and said, "Maybe you should get going, just incase..."
"Ya. Goodnight, Haruka," Michiru said walking out the door. Haruka stood there watching the closed door for a while before changing into her nightgown and getting into bed beside Hotaru. As she was about to close her eyes she heard Hotaru say, "Haruka-papa?"
"Hotaru-chan? You're still awake?"
"Ya...Haruka-papa?"
"Hai, Hotaru-chan?"
"Do you love Michiru-mama?"
"Yes. I do. So much, Hotaru-chan. I love her so very much,"
"Haruka-papa...love like that is precious...you should never let it go..."
"I don't want to but..."
"But what, Haruka-papa? You two will always be together, right?" Hotaru asked.
"Hotaru-chan, when you're older you'll understand that some people think people like me and Michiru shouldn't be together, and well, they don't allow it and..." Haruka started.
"Why? You love eachother! Haruka-papa! You and Michiru-mama have to be together!" Hotaru almost shouted.
"Hotaru-chan," Haruka whispered, tears starting to run down her cheeks, "I wish all people were like you. So understanding...but Hotaru-chan, some people don't understand..."
"Haruka-papa, don't cry..." Hotaru said, her little fingers wiping the tears from Haruka's cheeks.
"Hotaru-chan, you're the sweetest little girl in the universe, you know that? I'm glad to be your Haruka-papa."
"I'm glad you're my Haruka-papa and I want you to always be my Haruka-papa and I want Michiru-mama to always be my Michiru-mama! Please, can we be together always?"
"Yes..." Haruka said.
"Promise, Haruka-papa?"
"I promise. We will always be together."
"Thank you." Hotaru said closing her eyes.
***********************
Queen Uranus stood outside the door, listening to the whole conversation. Shaking her head sadly, she walked in the see Hotaru and Haruka sound asleep.
********************************
Well, that's part 5. WAIT DON'T LEAVE! THIS IS A MUST READ! I think some of you are wondering if Setsuna was reborn...well wouldn't it be weird if she was cuz she had been the guardian for such a long time and then all of a sudden to be reborn again? I don't think so...she here's what happened...Her mother...who was appointed by Former Queen Selenity to make them be reborn, knew that she couldn't let Setsuna start over, so instead she just erased those 16 years of memory and that's all there was too it. that means setsuna doesn't know that Hotaru and Haruka and Michiru were reborn. Isn't Setsuna's mother smart? Oh...and don' t mind Cook Yoda...she's just a jolly little cook that i stuck in the plot...i like her..not in that way...o and i'm starting to like former queen selenity...she's a funny one, don'tcha think? well thats all bye!