Senshi Vacation

by SailorGuardian9

It’s been a long hard road and the Senshies deserve a break, a nice time in Texas should be relaxing. Shouldn’t it? Read to find out!

4. Chapter Four

Chapter Four

A Trip to Town

It was late afternoon the next day when everyone started waking up. "Morning everyone." Sarah said with a yawn as she slowly sat up.

"Good morning Sarah." Kaede quietly said as she rolled over and looked at Sarah.

"Ya alright Kaede, ya look like ya've been crying?" Sarah asked with a small frown as she stared at Kaede.

"I do?" Kaede asked as she poked her cheek, feeling the dry tear lines as she did. "Yeah, I guess I have. I don't know why though." Kaede quietly said with a small frown as she slowly sat up.

"Did ya have a bad dream?" Sarah quietly asked as she put an arm around Kaede.

"Not that I remember. I have so many now though that I don't even remember half of them." Kaede quietly replied as she leaned her head on Sarah's chest.

"Oh Kaede. I'm so sorry darling, it'll be okay." Sarah quietly said as she kissed the top of Kaede's head.

"Good morning." Naru said with a smile as she sat up and stretched.

"Five more minutes." Usagi and Chibiusa both mumbled as they rolled over and hugged each other.

"No way you slugs, it's a new day in a new place! We have lots to explore and do!" Minako yelled as she sat up and jumped to her feet.

"I agree, get up you slugs!" Rei said with a grin as she tapped Usagi with her foot.

"Nooo! Get your foot outta my face." Usagi grumbled as she rolled over.

"Not until you get up slug." Rei replied as she tapped Usagi with her foot a few more times.

"Fine! Jeez, just get that smelly thing out of here." Usagi grumbled as she sat up. "Come on Chibiusa, we've gotta get up." Usagi quielty said as she gently sat Chibiusa up.

"Rei's mean." Chibiusa quietly said as she looked at Usagi.

"I've been telling you that forever and you never believed me." Usagi chuckled as she scooped Chibiusa into her arms, then stood up.

"Oh Ami." Mako quietly said as she gently poked Ami's cheek.

"My butt hurts." Ami mumbled in her sleep.

"Well stay out from under the bed from now on." Mako replied as she patted Ami's butt.

"Don't play with my butt." Ami mumbled as she rolled over.

"Don't play with your butt. You mean like this!" Mako yelled as she rolled Ami onto her stomach and used her butt like a drum.

"AAAAAAAAH! MAAAAAKOOOOO!" Ami shouted as she jumped to her feet. "I can't believe you! What is it about my butt that you're so obsessed with?!" Ami yelled as she covered her butt and stared at Mako.

"If I tell you will you let me touch it more?" Mako asked with a smirk.

"Not until you tell me why you wanna touch it!" Ami yelled back.

"To be honest, it's because it's cute. I really like your butt Ami, I like that I can hold it and that it has form to it now. Not that I didn't like your butt when it was smaller and firmer, but I just feel happy when I touch your new softer butt." Mako quietly answered with a dark blush. Ami was stunned by what Mako had just said, for someone who was so solid to actually enjoy her doughier and softer frame was more than a little surprising to her.

"You actually like me chubbier? I thought you just said those things because you didn't wanna make me feel bad. I never knew that you genuinely liked my pudgy new frame Mako. You really are something special Mako, thank you for loving the real me. I always thought only the thin hot girls found love and that's why I tried to stay in shape, but to be honest I hated it. I hated being tiny and not having any depth to my body. I can't tell you how many people would see me from behind and say excuse me sir and then loose their voices when they saw I was a girl. You really don't mind if I'm a little pudgier?" Ami quietly asked with a small smile.

"Not at all Ami, I love you for you. I don't care if you're fat, thin, tall, short, or anything in between. I love my little blueberry because she's sweet, kind, and she loves me for me. That's all I want in a partner Ami, someone who understands me as much as I understand them. The rest is just gravy to me." Mako replied with a smile as she held her arms out to Ami.

"Oh Mako!" Ami yelled as she threw herself into Mako's open arms. "I love you to Mako, and you can touch my doughiness whenever you want! I'm so happy that you really don't care, I love you Mako!" Ami yelled as she hugged Mako as tight as she could. "Come on Mako, let's get some breakfast and head into town." Ami said with a smile as she gently took Mako's hand and placed it on her butt. "You can keep that there for as long as you want to Mako." Ami giggled as she stood up with Mako.

"Be careful what you offer Ami, I might just leave it there forever." Mako replied with a grin as she squeezed Ami's butt.

"Oh!" Ami yelped in surprise.

"I can't watch this anymore, it's too gooey and lovey even for me." Minako said as she threw her clothes on rushed out of the room.

"Right behind you!" Everyone else replied as they all did the same thing.

"Congratulations Ami, I'm glad that ya finally understand." Sarah said with a smile as she walked out of her room.

"Well Mako, I suppose we should get dressed so we can go out bumming." Ami said with a smile as she put her hand on Makos.

"We should, but let me have one more little squeeze." Mako chuckled as she lightly squeezed Ami's butt again.

"Hey now, you're gonna have start paying for those squeezes Mako." Ami said with a devious grin as she turned her head and looked at Mako.

"I'll pay any price for one more." Mako replied with an equally devious grin.

"Can I give a squeeze back?" Ami asked with a chuckle.

"Of course my love." Mako giggled as she turned around and swayed her hips at Ami.

"Actually, I was hoping to squeeze something closer to the penthouse level rather than the basement. If you know what I mean." Ami informed with a smirk as she spun Mako around so they were facing each other.

"I don't...OH! Oh I get what you're saying. Alright, but top shelf merchandise is gonna be a little pricier than back shelf merchandise." Mako replied with a grin as she puffed her chest out to Ami.

"It's a price I'm willing to pay." Ami said with a smile as she started reaching for Mako's chest.

"Are you two coming any time today!" Minako shouted from the bottom of the steps.

"Yeah!" Ami shouted back in a disappointed tone. "I guess the store's closed for now." Ami said with a smile as she pulled her hand back from Mako's chest.

"That's alright, it'll be open again real soon." Mako replied with a smile as she held her hand out to Ami.

"I'm gonna make sure to be the first one in line when it does." Ami giggled as she took Mako's hand in her own.

"You always will be, because this store's exclusive to just the two of us." Mako quietly replied as she gave Ami a small kiss.

"Come on already you guys, we've got plans today!" Rei shouted as she started storming up the steps.

"We're coming! Just let us get dressed!" Mako shouted back as she quickly dug a pair of shorts and a tank top out of her bag.

"Do you think this'll look okay on me?" Ami asked as she pulled a light blue sun dress out of her bag.

"I think it'll look beautiful on you Ami." Mako answered with a smile as she started changing.

"Thank you Mako, I just hope it's not too clingy. Don't wanna show off too many of my curves." Ami chuckled as she slowly slipped the dress on.

"I like vacation Ami, she's more at peace than every day Ami." Mako said with a smile as she watched Ami get dressed.

"If she wasn't then she wouldn't be on vacation." Ami giggled as she put a pair of white heels on. "Ready?" Ami asked as she started walking towards the door.

"Yep. Let's go before the others blow a fuse." Mako chuckled as she followed Ami out the door and down the steps.

"Oh my god they're still here! I was beginning to think that you'd both disappeared. What took so long?" Kaede asked as she and everyone else stared at Ami and Mako.

"We were just...actually, that's between us." Ami said with a smile as she gently nudged Mako and looked up at her.

"I told you they were having fun up there." Minako whispered to Rei, who nodded subtly in response.

"Well I'm glad y're down here now because breakfast just finished cooking." Jud informed with a smile as he set a plate in front of everyone. "I made steak and eggs with the leftover steaks from last night." Jud said with a smile as he finished passing the food out.

"Thank you Mr. Blouse!" Everyone thanked as they all started eating.

"Y're welcome everyone. Now dig in folks, after breakfast I hear y'all are heading ta town. Well you youngins are anyways, us adults are gonna chill here and ride some horses." Jud said with a smile as he took a bite of his eggs.

"What about you and Shingo, Chibiusa, are you two coming with us or staying here?" Usagi asked as she took a bite of her steak.

"Is it okay if we come with you?" Shingo asked with a smile as he also took a bite of his steak.

"Of course, the adults can have time away from the kids and the kids can have time away from the parents." Usagi answered with a smile as she took another bite of her meal.

"Who's gonna drive us though?" Kaede asked as she looked at Emily.

"I will darling." Sarah informed as she finished her breakfast.

"You have a license?!" Kaede yelled in a surprised and enthusiastic tone.

"I sure do, I just couldn't drive in Japan because I didn't have a car, plus I didn't research if my license could transfer between countries. Most likely it can't since y'all drive quite differently over there." Sarah replied with a smile as she started gathering up everyone's empty plates.

"Wow, my girlfriend has a license!" Kaede cheered as she stood up and hugged Sarah. "You're the coolest Sarah!" Kaede yelled as she squeezed Sarah as tight as she could.

"Nah, I ain't that cool. Now you and yer friends on the other hand, y'all are cooler than words can describe." Sarah chuckled as she hugged Kaede back.

"Well y'all best go brush yer teeth and then ya can head on out. Take the truck Sarah, there's plenty of room fer everybody in there." Emily said with a smile as she looked at Sarah and Kaede.

"I was actually gonna take my special car." Sarah replied with a grin as she and everyone else started leaving the kitchen.

"That's a good idea to, it works and everything though?" Emily asked with a small smile.

"Sure does ma, I fixed her up myself. Well with a little help from that young farm boy down the road anyways." Sarah answered with a chuckle as she left the kitchen.

"Oh and Sarah!" Jud yelled just as Sarah left the kitchen.

"Yeah pa?" Sarah asked as she came back into the kitchen.

"Remember the rules fer going out on yer own in town." Jud said with a serious expression as he stared at Sarah.

"Mind my manners, never leave the house without a knife, and avoid the McCoys." Sarah quickly replied with a smile.

"That's my girl, now where's yer knife Sarah?" Jud asked as he continued to stare at Sarah.

"Right here pa." Sarah answered as she pulled a knife off her pocket. "One fire and rescue assisted open knife with a seatbelt cutter and window breaker, because we always hope fer the best..." Sarah replied, stopping to let her father finish the family saying.

"But prepare fer the worst. That's my girl, now get going so ya don't keep yer friends waiting." Jud said with a smile as he waved Sarah off.

"Wow, things sure are different in this country." Saeko quietly said as she watched Sarah run off.

"Yeah, but if it were the same as yer country it wouldn't be much of a vacation now would it?" Jud asked with a chuckle as he looked over at Saeko.

"I suppose that's true." Saeko replied as she took a sip of coffee. "Do you mind if I ask about the...McCoys was it?" Saeko asked as she looked at Jud and Emily.

"Ya don't wanna know about tham wretched people. All ya need ta know is that they're bad folks and ta avoid 'em. They're a bunch of skin headed ultra nationalist lunatics. They're suspects in several unsolved crimes, including two homicides. Don't get me wrong, I love our town and the folks around it, but a few bad apples can spoil the bunch." Jud grumbled as he stared at everyone.

"Oh great, knowing our daughters they'll end up in a confrontation with those people in no time." Saeko moaned as she plopped her head on the table.

"I wouldn't worry about it ma'am. Yer gals are very smart and I'm sure they could find a way ta avoid conflict. If they do end up getting inta something with tham however, I almost feel sorry fer tham bastards. Yer gals would have 'em begging ta be taken ta jail." Emily chuckled

"Amen ta that." Jud said with a grin. "So who's ready ta go horseback riding?!" Jud yelled as he stood up and looked at everyone.

"Yes! I'm so excited!" Saeko yelled as she jumped to her feet.

"Then let's go folks!" Emily shouted as she also stood up. While the adults all got ready to go horseback riding, Sarah was getting her car ready to head into town.

"Pile in everybody!" Sarah yelled as she hopped in the drivers seat and started her vehicle.

"Is this an ambulance?" Usagi asked as she opened the back doors of Sarah's vehicle.

"Yeah, it's a decommissioned one that one of my neighbors and I modified. It's the only vehicle that has enough room fer everyone." Sarah answered with a grin.

"Wow, it looks really neat with the modifications." Kaede said with a smile as she sat in a seat and put her seatbelt on.

"I'm glad ya like it darling." Sarah replied with a smile as she adjusted her mirrors.

"What kinds of modifications did you make to it Sarah?" Ami asked as she sat down next to Mako.

"Well we obviously added tham extra seats that y'all are using, we also fixed the lights and siren. Though legally I can't use 'em, but I like the authenticity. I also packed that there first aid bag that's in the clear cabinet." Sarah pointed out as she started driving.

"Wow, this is really something Sarah. It reminds me of moms ambulance." Kaede said with a smile as she stared out the front window.

"So what made you decided to buy an ambulance like this instead of a traditional car?" Rei asked in a curious tone.

"Well before I wanted ta be in the military I wanted ta be a firefighter paramedic, and one day I saw this thang fer sale at a local dealership and the rest was history. I'm actually still paying on her, but I got a good deal on her since she was used. Plus my pa and the salesperson were old buddies from his military days, so he knocked off a good chunk of the price as a friendly gesture." Sarah explained with a smile as she continued driving.

"That's awesome Sarah, you save any lives with this yet?" Mako asked with a chuckle as she looked out the back windows.

"I haven't saved any lives with it, but I did give Mrs. Cherry a ride home from the grocery store after she missed her cab. She's an older woman in a wheelchair and one of our towns oldest residence. She's kind of an idol in the community. I was glad I could giver her a hand." Sarah answered with a smile as she gently stopped next to a small building. "Alright folks, welcome ta town." Sarah said with a smile as she turned the ambulance off.

"It's so cute Sarah." Usagi giggled as she looked out the window at the small town. It was even smaller than everyone had imagined. There were maybe ten small single floor stores and a moderate sized grocery store spread out over about a three mile radius.

"It was a lot closer than I would've thought as well." Mako added as she got out of the car and looked around a bit.

"Look at that shop Usagi!" Chibiusa yelled as she pointed at a small shop that looked like a barn.

"Can we go sis?! Please!" Shingo yelled as he and Chibiusa looked at Usagi with puppy dog eyes.

"Yes, but not on your own. We'll go there for sure before we leave, but we should follow Sarah's lead since she knows the town." Usagi answered with a smile.

"No need ta keep 'em waiting, let's get going everyone." Sarah said with a smile as she held her hand out to Kaede.

"Lead the way." Kaede said with a small smile as she took Sarah's hand and started walking with her.

"This is so exciting, I can't wait to get some Texas attire for my wardrobe!" Minako yelled in a giddy tone.

"I can picture it now, how cute you'd look in a pair of cowgirl boots and a fancy hat like Sarah's." Rei replied with a chuckle as she watched Minako practically skip towards the store.

"What about you Ami, are you gonna cowgirl up for vacation?" Mako asked with a chuckle as everyone walked into the store.

"I don't know, I might get something to wear. But I don't know what." Ami answered with a smile.

"Morning folks, how are y'all doing today?" A man asked as everyone entered the store.

"Mighty fine sir, and how 'bout yerself?" Sarah asked as she looked back at the man and smiled.

"Living the dream young lady. Say, yer Blouse's gal ain't ya?" The man asked as he gave Sarah a closer look.

"I sure am sir." Sarah answered with a smile.

"I ain't seen ya in ferever, I never got a chance ta tell ya how sorry I was ta hear 'bout what happened ta Jenny. I know ya two meant a lot ta each other." The man quietly said with a small frown.

"Thank you, that means a lot ta me sir." Sarah quietly replied with a small smile.

"Looks like ya made some new friends though, she'd be happy fer ya." The man said with a smile as he looked at everyone else.

"More than just friends sir, they's family now. Especially this one." Sarah replied as she put her arm over Kaede's shoulders.

"Jenny'd be proud of yas fer not giving up on love, and so is everyone else." The man said with a smile. "Well I'll let ya gals brows around a bit, but if any of yas need any help just ask." The man said with a smile as he grabbed a box and walked over to a shelf with it.

"Thank ya sir." Sarah replied as she started looking around.

"Look at me Usagi!" Chibiusa chuckled as she looked at Usagi. Usagi looked back at her and couldn't help but giggle at what she saw, she was wearing a big fancy hat that barely fit her small head.

"It looks good Chibiusa, but you should see if they have a smaller one." Usagi replied as she walked over by Chibusa and started looking through the hats on the shelf. "Here, try this one." Usagi said as she placed a small pink cowgirl hat on Chibiusa's head.

"Oh that's cute Chibiusa, you're definitely getting that hat." Naru said with a smile as she patted Chibiusa's hat.

"Hooray!" Chibiusa cheered as she hugged Usagi and Naru.

"What about me sis?" Shingo asked with a grin as he tipped his new hat at them.

"Very nice Shingo, you look like you've lived here forever." Naru replied with a smile as she stared at Shingo. He'd found a light brown hat with a fancy stitching pattern around the main part above the rim.

"Not bad Shingo, the stitching designs kind of remind me of something you'd see carved into an ancient temple. Or maybe a heart monitor with the jagged up and down spikes." Usagi said with a smile as she stared at Shingo's hat.

"Thanks sis, and you to Naru." Shingo thanked with a smile as he tipped his hat to both of them, which made each of them giggle.

"What do you think Rei?" Minako asked as she walked over by Rei in a pair of brown knee high boots and a matching brown hat.

"I think we have some role playing in our future, cow girl." Rei answered with a smirk as she took Minako's hat from her and placed it on her own head.

"Rei! You devious gal you." Minako chuckled as she took her hat back. "Let's get you a hat as well. Maybe the one with the red studs on it to match your flaming personality." Minako smirked as she walked Rei over to the hat she was looking at.

"I like these boots, they're so tall and comfy." Mako said with a smile as she walked around in a pair of knee high boots like Minako's.

"How do I look Mako?" Ami quietly asked as she walked over by Mako. She was wearing boots similar to Mako's but with a slightly different design, she was also wearing a light brown vest with tassels hanging off the sleeves, and a light blue cowgirl hat with diamond studs around it.

"I...I...So adorable." Mako quietly stuttered as she stared at Ami.

"I bet you're just saying that because you're my girlfriend." Ami quietly said with a small blush as she looked at her feet and fidgeted around.

"What's got you so embar...wow." Naru quietly asked as she walked over by Ami and Mako, stopping when she saw Ami. "Ami you look...just...wow." Naru quietly said as she stared at Ami.

"C-come on Naru, you're embarrassing me." Ami quietly said with a darker blush.

"Breaking news, Ami's embarrassed again." Minako chuckled as she and Rei walked over by everyone.

"She looks so cute in that outfit." Rei giggled as she stared at Ami.

"She does doesn't she." Minako replied with a smile.

"Guys." Ami mumbled as she buried her face in her hands.

"Are we all ready to go?" Usagi asked as she walked over by everyone with Shingo and Chibiusa.

"Oh wow Ami, you look amazing." Shingo said with a smile as he stared at Ami.

"Yeah, that outfit looks really cute on you." Chibiusa added with a smile. Ami was so embarrassed by all the attention that she tried burying her head in her hands.

"What's all the commotion over here?" Kaede asked as her and Sarah walked over to the group.

"I think it has something ta do with an adorable blue haired gal." Sarah chuckled as she stared at Ami.

"She's not the only one who's looking more adorable, nice hat sis." Mako said with a smile as she looked at Kaede's hat. It was a turquoise hat that matched her senshi uniform, it was studded with fake sapphires and had a wavy stitch design around the rim.

"Thanks sis, but Ami looks way cuter." Kaede replied with a giggle.

"Can we go please?" Ami quietly asked with a huge blush.

"Yeah, we'll pay and leave ya alone. If any more blood goes ta yer face ya ain't gonna have enough fer the rest of yer body." Sarah chuckled as she lead everyone to the counter.

"Well look at all these little cow gals and boy, y'all look mighty nice there." The cashier said with a smile as everyone approached the counter.

"Thank you sir." Everyone thanked with smiles.

"Okay, so are y'all paying separate er together?" The man asked with a smile.

"We'll do it all in one order, then split it amongst ourselves." Sarah answered with a smile.

"Sure thang missy. So, I ain't seen any of yas before with the exception of Ms. Blouse, y'all visitors?" The cashier asked with a smile as he started ringing up everyone's items.

"Yes sir, we're visiting from Japan." Usagi answered with a smile.

"Really?! Well welcome ta the U.S ladies, how are y'all liking yer trip so far?" The cashier asked as he handed everyone their items and totaled the order.

"It's definitely different from home, but we're having a good time." Ami answered with a smile as she put her hat back on.

"I can see that, y'all are going native with tham big ol' hats and boots." The cashier chuckled. "Alright so yer total today comes out ta three-hundred and ten dollars even." The cashier informed with a smile.

"So let's see, that's three ten divided by seven since the youngins ain't paying fer their own stuff. Uh, that's uh...I ain't too good at math." Sarah said as she kept trying to figure out the answer.

"Approximately forty-four dollars and twenty-nine cents each." Ami said with a smile.

"Is that right?" Sarah asked as she looked at the cashier, who'd just started typing it into a calculator.

"Hang on a sec, her brain's faster than my fingers. Let's see, three ten divided by seven...yep, she's right on the mark. That's one heck of a skill ya got there Ms." The cashier said with a smile as he looked at Ami.

"Thank you." Ami thanked with a small smile.

"Y'all went through the currency exchange right, ya ain't walking around with yen?" Sarah asked as she looked back at everyone.

"We didn't go personally, thankfully our parents thought a little more ahead than we did." Usagi answered as she pulled one-hundred and thirty-three dollars out of her pocket. "You can keep the change sir, thank you for everything." Usagi thanked as she paid for hers, Shingo's, and Chibiusa's items.

"I'm much obliged young lady." The cashier said with a smile.

"Thank you sir, have a good day!" Everyone thanked as they all gave the cashier their money.

"Thank ya ladies, and y'all do the same!" The cashier yelled back as everyone left the store.

"Look at us Rei, we're part of the culture now! I love this hat, does it look good Rei?" Minako asked as she tipped her hat at Rei.

"You look like a regular cowgirl now." Rei answered with a chuckle.

"Y'all look authentic now. With tham pertty new duds on ain't no one even gonna know ya ain't from around here." Sarah said with a smile. "So where should we go next?" Sarah asked as she stopped walking and looked at everyone.

"I don't know, is there any place you'd recommend?" Kaede asked with a smile.

"Hm. Well that depends, y'all getting hot?" Sarah asked as she looked at everyone.

"Not really, most of us do pretty good in the heat. At least for a while, Ami tends to be a little more sensitive to the heat because of her ice powers." Usagi explained with a smile.

"I thought she got colder easier." Naru said with a confused expression.

"You're both right, the extreme heat and cold take a harder tole on me in a shorter period of time. The heat I understand, but not the cold." Ami replied with a smile.

"Probably because your core temperature is slightly below average, I have the same problems with heat since my core temperature is slightly above average. I heat up faster than the average person, and it takes me longer to cool down. I have an advantage in cold weather though because like I said, it takes me longer to cool down." Rei explained with a smile.

"So my powers screw me on both sides of the thermometer, that's good to know." Ami chuckled.

"I don't know why though, you should have an advantage in warm weather like I do in cold weather." Rei replied with a straight face.

"Maybe it's because ice melts in the heat but heat doesn't freeze in the cold." Naru suggested with a smile.

"It dissipates though." Mako chimed in with a smile.

"Yeah but it's not like an instantaneous thing, it can take hours depending on how cold it is and how bundled up a person is. If I throw an ice cube into a fire it'll liquify in seconds, even a brick sized block of solid ice would only take a few minutes to melt in a flame." Naru explained with a small smile as she looked at Ami.

"I suppose that's possible, either way the heat and I don't get along too well." Ami said with a smile as she wiped some sweat from her forehead. "Speaking of heat getting to me, how hot is it out here?" Ami asked with a smile.

"I'd say about eighty ta ninety degrees Fahrenheit." Sarah answered with a smile.

"Is that so." Ami said with a small breath.

"Don't worry, I's got two thangs ta beat the heat. The first thang is right around the corner here." Sarah informed with a smile as she walked around a building. "Ta da! I scream ice cream, a local favorite." Sarah said with a smile as she pointed at an old ice cream parlor. "She's been in our town since the late fifties, and it's still the best ice cream place around." Sarah said as she opened the door and held it for everyone.

"Yippee!" Chibiusa yelled as she ran inside.

"Slow down Chibiusa, I don't want you to trip!" Usagi yelled as she ran in after her, followed by Naru and everyone else.

"Wow! They have so many flavors!" Chibiusa yelled as she peered into a clear freezer filled with ice cream buckets.

"'Bout every flavor ya can think of." A young woman said with a smile as she walked over by the display.

"Chocolate?" Rei asked with a smile.

"Dark, milk, or mint?" The woman asked with a grin.

"Kaede take my pulse, I think I died and went to heaven." Usagi said with a smile as she stared at the ice cream.

"Y'all take yer time and holler when ya know what ya want." The woman said with a smile as she went to help another customer.

"What's that?" Minako asked as she pointed at a multi colored ice cream with candy unicorn heads in it.

"That's unicorn dream supreme, it's a mixture of cotton candy and vanilla ice cream with caramel filled chocolate unicorn heads throughout it." Sarah explained with a smile.

"I want it! I want it!" Chibiusa yelled with excitement.

"Alright alright, calm down Chibiusa. We'll get you the unicorn one." Usagi said with a smile as she patted Chibiusa's head. "Do you know what you want Shingo?" Usagi asked as she looked over at Shingo.

"I think I'm gonna get birthday cake, it sounds good." Shingo answered as he stared at the ice cream.

"What about you Naru?" Usagi asked as she looked over at Naru.

"I'm leaning towards dino tracks, they're kind of like Chibiusa's ice cream except with vanilla ice cream and chocolate swirls. It also has caramel filled chocolate dinosaurs in it." Naru answered with a smile.

"That sounds good, I think I'll get that as well." Usagi replied as she waved at the employ.

"Ready ta order ladies?" The woman asked with a smile.

"I'd like one scoop of the unicorn dream supreme, a scoop of birthday cake, and two scoops of dino tracks please." Usagi ordered with a smile.

"All in bowls or cones?" The woman asked as she grabbed a scooper.

"I'd like mine in a waffle cone please." Naru answered with a smile.

"I want a cake cone please." Chibiusa said with a smile.

"I want a waffle cone to please." Shingo informed with a smile.

"Alright. Can I get the unicorn in a cake cone, the birthday cake in a waffle cone, one of the dinos in a waffle cone, and the last dino in a cake cone please?" Usagi asked as she looked back at the woman.

"Sure thang ladies and sir." The woman replied as she scooped everyone's ice cream and handed it to them.

"Thank you!" Everyone thanked with smiles as Usagi paid and they all went to sit down.

"Who's next?" The woman asked as she looked at everyone else.

"Us!" Mako yelled with joy as she took Ami's hand and walked over to the counter with her.

"What can I get ya ladies?" The woman asked as she stared at Ami. "Maybe a water fer this gal, ya alright there missy? Y're looking kinda pale?" The woman asked with a nervous expression.

"Ami?" Mako asked as she looked over at Ami.

"Y-yeah?" Ami asked with a small breath.

"Why don't you go sit down and I'll order what you want." Mako quietly said as she waved to Usagi.

"Yeah Mako?" Usagi asked as she walked over to her.

"Take Ami back to the table please and keep an eye on her, I think the heat's getting to her a bit." Mako said with a small frown.

"Sure Mako." Usagi quietly answered as she took Ami's hand and walked her to the table.

"Could I please get a water for her real quick?" Mako asked with a small frown.

"I already put it on the counter honey." The woman informed as she pointed at a small styrofoam cup.

"Thank you." Mako thanked as she took the water and walked it over to Ami. "Drink." Mako instructed as she handed Ami the cup. Ami lightly nodded and chugged the water. "Better?" Mako asked with a smile. Ami lightly shook her head yes. "Good. Now you wait here while I grab your butterscotch ice cream. You wanted a chocolate dipped waffle cone right?" Mako asked as she started walking away.

"Y-yes, thank you Mako." Ami answered with a small breath.

"Y're friend alright?" The woman asked as Mako walked back up to the counter.

"Yes, thank you ma'am." Mako answered with a small smile.

"That's good. Yeah our Texas heat can be dangerous, but that's why we're here with all these cold treats. So what can I get yas?" The woman asked with a smile as she grabbed her scooper again.

"May I please have a scoop of butterscotch in a chocolate dipped waffle cone and a scoop of mint chip in a waffle bowl please?" Mako asked with a smile.

"Sure thang, and if y'd like I can add hot fudge and whipped cream ta the bowl fer just fifty cents more." The woman informed as she scooped the butterscotch onto the cone.

"Yes please!" Mako yelled with enthusiasm.

"Alright, there ya go young lady. Y'all enjoy." The woman said as Mako paid and grabbed the ice creams.

"Thank you ma'am." Mako thanked as she walked back over to the table. "Here you go Ami." Mako said with a smile as she handed Ami her ice cream.

"Thank you...Mako." Ami thanked as she took her cone and licked it.

"Better?" Mako asked with a small smile.

"Yeah, thanks Mako." Ami thanked as she continued to lick her cone.

"Yay, our turn." Minako said with a smile as she grabbed Rei's hand and ran over to the counter with her.

"Howdy there ladies, what can I get the two of yas?" The woman asked with a smile as she stared at Rei and Minako.

"Do you know what you want Rei?" Minako asked as she stared into the freezers of ice cream.

"I think I'll get a hot fudge sundae in a waffle bowl with extra fudge and could I get strawberry slices instead of cherries please?" Rei asked with a smile as she looked at the woman behind the counter.

"Sure! That's gotta be the most interesting thang anyone's ever ordered here. I like yer taste young lady." The woman replied with a smile as she started making Rei's sundae. "What about you missy, ya know what ya want?" The woman asked as she looked back at Minako.

"Um...I think I'll get a...I don't know yet. I'm sorry." Minako apologized as she stared at all the ice cream options.

"Ain't no rush, take yer time." The woman replied with a smile as she handed Rei's sundae to her.

"Thank you! Oh my god this looks delicious!" Rei said with enthusiasm as she handed the woman some money. "You can keep the change ma'am." Rei said with a smile as she started walking back to the table.

"Thank ya kindly young lady." The woman thanked as she put the money in the register and the change in the tip jar. "Ya know what ya want yet?" The woman asked as she walked back over to Minako.

"I think so. Can I please get a scoop of butterscotch ice cream in a cake cone, and could you dip it in chocolate please?" Minako asked with a smile.

"Of course young lady." The woman replied as she put a heaping scoop of butterscotch ice cream on a cone, then dipped it in a pot of melted chocolate. "That'll harden up in a minute er two." The woman informed as she handed Minako her cone.

"Thank you so much ma'am." Minako thanked as she paid and went over to the table.

"Y're welcome young lady." The woman replied as she walked over by Sarah and Kaede.

"Well howdy there miss Blouse, I ain't seen ya in a long while. How've ya been honey?" The woman asked with a smile as she approached Sarah and Kaede.

"Pertty good Mrs Wallice, how's Mr Wallice doing by the way?" Sarah asked with a smile.

"Ya know my husband, work till ya drop and then do it again the next day." The woman answered with a chuckle.

"The life of a rancher, not an easy one." Sarah replied with a smile as she looked at the ice cream.

"Say, where's Jenny? I ain't ever seen ya in here without yer gal." The woman asked with a confused expression as she looked around.

"J-Jenny?" Sarah quietly asked as she stared back at the woman.

"Yeah, I ain't seen either of yas in ferever. How's she doing, ya two didn't break up did ya?" The woman asked with a small frown.

"Um..." Sarah quietly trailed off as she fought back tears. "You didn't here about the dance last year?" Sarah quietly asked with a sniffle.

"No. Please tell me ya two didn't break up at a dance, the two of yas were the cutest couple in town." The woman replied with a small frown.

"We didn't...we didn't..." Sarah tried to answer, but all she could was start crying.

"Hey now, what's going on Sarah. She didn't dump ya did she?" The woman asked with a frown as she stared at Sarah.

"NO! She loved me more than anythang, and I loved her the same! We didn't part by choice, she...she..." Sarah quietly cried as she turned around and clung to Kaede.

"She what honey?" The woman asked with confused expression as she stared at Sarah.

"She died!" Sarah shouted as she broke down on the floor crying. "She's dead, she died in my arms at the dance! I was right there and I couldn't help her! We were dancing and having a good time, and then out of no where she just dropped dead on the floor! I don't know why, I don't know why her heart stopped working! It made no sense, they found nothing in her records, history, or autopsy! She was just dead!" Sarah shouted as she continued crying

"Oh my god. Sarah sweetie I am so sorry, I had no idea. Oh ya poor thang, I know how much ya meant ta each other. God, I'm so sorry honey." The woman quietly said as she kneeled down by Sarah and hugged her.

"I miss her so much, but I'm trying ta move on. I don't know if it's what she'd want er not, but I wanna believe that she'd want me ta be as happy as I'd want her ta be. Even if it wasn't with me. But I miss her so much." Sarah cried as she continued to cling to Kaede.

"She'd be proud of yas Sarah, one thang she always loved 'bout ya was yer fighting spirit. She'd be so proud of ya Sarah." The woman quietly said as she hugged Sarah tighter.

"I hope so, I really do. I hope I'm not hurting her by moving on like this, but Kaede's so special. She knows the pain I feel and understands it, she returned the strength that I lost when Jenny died. I pray that Jenny understands and that she don't feel betrayed." Sarah quietly cried as she cuddled closer to Kaede.

"I know that Jenny would understand darling, she'd be so proud of ya fer finding love again. All the two of yas ever wanted fer each other was happiness, and I know that if it was you up there and her down here ya'd want her ta be happy and move on. She would want the same fer you sweetie." The woman quietly said as she rubbed Sarah's back. "Now ya wipe tham tears away darling, she wouldn't want ya wasting such a beautiful day crying, or wasting time that ya could be spending with this cute little thang." The woman said with a smile as she wiped Sarah's tears and looked at Kaede.

"Y're right. She'd want me ta live in the moment, she'd want me ta be happy and spend time with Kaede. Because that's what I'd want fer her." Sarah replied with a sniffle as she snuggled up to Kaede. "Come on darling, let's eat some ice cream." Sarah said with a smile as she looked into Kaede's eyes.

"I'd like that Sarah." Kaede quietly replied as she brushed a strand of hair out of Sarah's eye.

"What would ya like girls?" The woman asked with a smile as she went back behind the counter.

"I'd like a scoop of cookies and cream and a scoop of coffee in a waffle bow please." Sarah answered with a small smile.

"I thought ya hated coffee ice cream, coffee anythang." The woman said with a smile as she grabbed a waffle bowl.

"I do, but it was Jenny's favorite. I'ma eat a scoop fer both of us today, and I hope my little guardian here helps because coffee ice cream is god awful ta me." Sarah chuckled as she held her hand out to Kaede.

"I don't like it either. It was my dads favorite flavor though, and the first flavor I ever tried." Kaede chuckled as she grabbed Sarah's outstretched hand.

"Ya think the two of 'em get along up there?" Sarah asked with a smile as she stared at Kaede.

"I think all three of them get along together. I could see the look on Sasha's face if she saw this stuff, she'd probably pass out at the sight of this." Kaede chuckled.

"There ya go gals, a scoop of cookies and cream and a scoop of coffee. The coffee one's on us since neither of yas seem ecstatic 'bout eating it. So what flavor would ya like missy?" The woman asked as she looked at Kaede.

"I'd like a scoop of strawberry in a cake cone please." Kaede answered with a smile.

"Sure thang young lady." The woman replied as she plopped a scoop of ice cream in a cone and gave it to Kaede.

"Thank you." Kaede thanked as she licked her cone.

"Y're welcome ladies." The woman replied as they both handed her some money.

"Let's go sit down and eat this...coffee cream." Sarah said with a chuckle as her and Kaede walked over to the table.

"Shall we?" Kaede asked as she picked up a spoon and held it over the coffee ice cream.

"We shall." Sarah replied as she did the same thing.

"To the ones we loved." Kaede quietly said as she stuck her spoon in the ice cream.

"Ta the ones we lost." Sarah quietly said as she did the same thing.

"May they rest in peace." Kaede quietly said as she reflexively put a hand over her left shoulder where Sasha's patch would be.

"Amen." Sarah quietly finished as they each took a bite of the coffee ice cream. "Oh dear lord, it's still awful." Sarah groaned as she choked the bite down.

"Uh! It's like eating a fistful of coffee grounds." Kaede said as she tried to wash the taste off her mouth.

"How the heck could they eat this stuff?" Sarah asked as she swished some water around in her mouth.

"I guarantee that they're up there laughing their heads off at us right now." Kaede laughed as she pushed the coffee ice cream to the side.

"I wouldn't doubt it darling. That's just like Jenny ta do that." Sarah chuckled as she grabbed her own ice cream and started eating it.

"It's a shame to waste it though, that'd be like a sin to my dad." Kaede said with a smile as she ate some more of her ice cream.

"Tell me 'bout it, Jenny'd be rolling in her grave 'bout this if she weren't cremated." Sarah replied with a chuckle.

"I know what to do with it." Kaede said with a grin.

"What?" Sarah asked as she took a bite of her bowl.

"Who wants coffee ice cream?!" Kaede yelled as she looked at everyone in their group.

"I'll eat it." Minako answered with a smile as she grabbed the bowl.

"Look at you Mina, double dipping over here. I can't wait to see where all those extra calories go." Rei said with an evil grin as she stared at Minako's chest.

"That's funny, it sounds like you think I'm eating this alone." Minako replied as she pushed the bowl between them.

"What?" Rei asked as she looked at the full bowl of ice cream.

"Bon appétit Rei." Minako said with a grin as she ate a bite of the ice cream.

"Oh my god, I can't believe I ate all that ice cream. I feel so fat now." Naru quietly said as she leaned back in her chair.

"Despite what you feel you still look great Naru." Usagi said with a smile as she poked Naru's stomach.

"Don't. If you do that I'm gonna pop." Naru chuckled as she playfully swatted Usagi's hand away.

"We wouldn't want that now." Usagi giggled as she leaned her head on Naru's shoulder.

"Speaking of things about to pop. What's going on with this?" Naru asked with a grin as she looked at a button on Usagi's shorts.

"Oh that, they're just kind of old. But I brought them because they're comfortable. I haven't eaten that much ice cream, not yet anyways." Usagi answered with a smile as she sat up and put her arm around Naru.

"Well, shall we see if the others are ready to continue our little shopping spree?" Naru asked as she gently wrapped her fingers over Usagi's hand.

"I suppose." Usagi answered as she stood up, then offered Naru a hand up.

"Why thank you." Naru thanked with a chuckle as she pulled herself to her feet.

"You're welcome my dear." Usagi giggled as she looked at Shingo and Chibiusa.

"My mommies are cute together." Chibiusa said with a smile as she looked back and forth from Usagi to Naru.

"They're too cute, it's gooier than a fresh from the oven chocolate chip cookie." Shingo said with a grin as he stared at Usagi and Naru.

"Yeah, but that means it's also sweet." Chibiusa replied as she hugged Usagi and Naru.

"Awe." Naru said with a smile as she picked Chibiusa up and hugged her. "It's not nearly as sweet as you though Chibiusa." Naru said with a giggle as she lightly poked Chibiusa on the nose.

"Come on Naru, let's get going before we make Shingo sick with our sweet talk." Usagi giggled as she started walking towards the exit.

"Hey wait up!" Rei yelled as she and everyone else ran after Usagi.

"Bye gals, have a nice day!" The woman behind the counter yelled as she waved goodbye to everyone.

"Bye, thank you for the ice cream!" Everyone yelled back as they all left the store.

"Oh that hit the spot, a nice cool treat to beat the Texas heat." Minako said with a smile as she stretched a little.

"I agree, that was a good idea Sarah. Thank you for showing us around your town." Kaede thanked as she gave Sarah a small kiss on the cheek.

"It weren't no biggy darling, so ya wanna keep shopping er ya wanna head home?" Sarah asked as she held her hand out to Kaede.

"I'm good with whatever the rest of you wanna do." Kaede answered as she gently took Sarah's hand in her own.

"I don't care, whatever you guys wanna do." Usagi replied as she took one of Chibiusa's hands in her own.

"I wanna see if I can find pretty boots like Amis." Chibiusa said as she gave her other hand to Naru.

"Does anyone mind if we go look for a pair of boots for Chibiusa?" Usagi asked as she and Naru swung Chibiusa between their hands.

"I'm fine with that, are you good with that Ami?" Mako asked as she looked at Ami.

"Yeah I'm...oof!" Ami started replying until she slammed into someone.

"Hey! Ya best watch where y're stepping girl!" A man yelled as he turned around and glared at Ami.

"I'm terribly sorry sir, I hope I didn't hurt you." Ami apologized as she looked at the man. He was a taller heavier set man with a shaven head.

"Foreigners like ya are hurting this place every damn day, why don't ya go on back home where ya belong!" The man snapped back.

"Excuse us?!" Rei shouted as she stared at the man.

"Ya heard me, go on, get! Go back home ta yer fancy chopsticks and Kung foolery." The man said in an abrasive and rude tone.

"McClain." Sarah spat as she grabbed Ami and pulled her back from the man.

"Well well well, if it ain't little miss Blouse. How's that girlfriend of yers doing, still dead?" The man asked with a sadistic chuckle.

"I'm right here asshole." Kaede said as she stepped in front of Sarah.

"What this, yer a foreigner and a fag. Y're all kinds of trouble fer this town. Be a real shame if ya had an accident while on yer little trip over the border." McClain said with a nasty grin.

"Are you threatening me? Because if you are I'll hang your ass out to dry pal." Kaede quietly said through gritted teeth as she got nose to nose with McClain.

"What are ya gonna do, some of that fancy karafu stuff. Ain't no match fer a good 'ol American original." McClain quietly said as he pulled his shirt up a little.

"GUN!" Kaede shouted as she grabbed for her ODM handles.

"Hands up!" Usagi shouted as she grabbed Naru, Shingo, and Chibiusa, then threw them behind her.

"Don't move or we will open fire on you!" Rei shouted as she aimed her guns at his head.

"You can't win, give up and surrender!" Minako shouted as she did the same thing.

"Put your hands up now!" Mako shouted as she aimed her guns at his chest.

"We won't hesitate to shoot you, hands where we can see them!" Ami screamed as she pointed one gun at his head and one at his heart.

"Looks like yer tough guy act done backfired McClain. If I was you I'd listen ta 'em, they's got more experience with their guns than both of us combined. Ya really don't wanna pick a fight with 'em." Sarah quietly said as she locked eyes with McClain.

"I didn't pick this fight, them weak ass foreigner loving politicians did. I'm just the one who's gotta fight the battle." McClain replied as he continued staring at Sarah.

"Well I'd surrender if I was you, because ya ain't gonna win." Sarah quietly said a she looked at Kaede and the others.

"You arrogant little..." McClain started saying until someone yelled at him.

"Hey! What're ya doing bro, we's gotta get this shipment down ta the warehouse!" A man shouted as he approached McClain.

"I'm trying ta keep our town pure, but these gals are soiling it with their foreign stench." McClain replied as he looked back at the man.

"Well ya might wanna rethink yer tactics little bro, because y're out numbered and out gunned. Come on, get yer ass in the truck." The man instructed as he continued staring at McClain.

"Ya oughta listen ta yer brother McClain, they've fought far tougher opponents and won." Sarah said as she stared into McClain's eyes.

"This ain't over, y'all best watch yer backs." McClain spat as he started walking towards the truck.

"Y'all okay?" Sarah asked as she looked back at everyone.

"I think so." Usagi quietly said as she fell to her knees.

"That was terrifying, why can't we ever just have a normal time?" Minako quietly said as she put her guns away.

"Because the universe hates us." Rei mumbled as she sat down with her head in her hands.

"Well I hate it right back." Mako grumbled as she jammed her guns into her holsters.

"Are you all okay?" Naru asked as she walked Shingo and Chibiusa out from behind Usagi.

"We lived and we didn't have to shoot anyone, that's about as okay as we can get right now Naru." Usagi quietly said as she put her guns away and sat down.

"Now what, do we call the police or something?" Ami quietly asked as she sat down on the sidewalk.

"I would think so, but then again this is a different place from home." Mako quietly replied as she sat down next to her.

"I don't care, we have to tell someone. Otherwise this incident is gonna turn into a mess if they think they can get away with those threats." Kaede said with a small frown as she looked at Sarah.

"I agree, y'all need ta get up so we can go talk ta someone who can help." Sarah quietly said as she held her hand out to Kaede.

"Where are we going?" Kaede asked as she took Sarah's hand and pulled herself to her feet.

"The local sheriff's department." Sarah answered as she started leading everyone down the sidewalk.

"Shingo get on my back okay." Usagi instructed as she stopped and kneeled down in front of Shingo.

"I'm okay sis, I can walk just fine." Shingo replied with a small smile.

"It wasn't a suggestion Shingo, now do as you're told!" Usagi snapped as she looked back at Shingo with an angry and scared expression.

"Okay." Shingo quietly replied as he climbed on Usagi's back.

"Naru, pick Chibiusa up and stay close to me." Usagi ordered as she stood next to Naru.

"Sure Usagi." Naru quietly replied as she picked Chibiusa up.

"Sarah, stand next to Naru." Usagi instructed as she looked at Sarah.

"I's gotta lead ya ta the station though." Sarah replied with a confused look.

"I'm not asking Sarah, now do as your told and stand by Naru!" Usagi shouted as she glared at Sarah.

"Yes ma'am." Sarah quietly replied as she scurried over by Naru.

"The rest of you on me, I want a full defensive circle now!" Usagi shouted as she pulled her guns out again.

"On it." Minako replied as she and the others quickly formed a semi circle around Usagi, Naru, and Sarah.

"Take the lead Minako, and don't anybody hesitate to put them down if they come back." Usagi ordered as she looked behind her at Rei.

"Our hearts and souls to the cause." Rei quietly said as she unholstered her guns again.

"Damn right, now let's go." Usagi replied as she started walking. "Where's the station Sarah?" Usagi asked as everyone continued down the sidewalk.

"'Bout a hundred feet er so." Sarah answered as she pointed at small stone building.

"Good, once we get to the door put your weapons away. But stay ready until then." Usagi ordered as everyone continued walking.

"Yes princess." Everyone replied as they all continued to look around.

"Usagi." Naru quietly said as she looked at Usagi.

"I don't wanna hear it Naru. Please, just save it until we're off the streets and in a safer place." Usagi quietly said as she continued walking.

"We're here. So it's time ta put yer guns away everyone." Sarah calmly said as she looked at Kaede.

"What's the call Usagi?" Rei quietly asked as she looked at Usagi.

"Do as she says." Usagi answered as she holstered her guns, followed by everyone else.

"Thanks fer doing that, now let's go talk the police." Sarah said with a smile as she lead everyone into the building.

"Howdy there Miss Blouse, how are ya doing today?" A woman asked as she set her newspaper down and looked at Sarah.

"I was fine till 'bout two minutes ago." Sarah answered as everyone else slowly walked into the building.

"What happened?" The woman asked in a slightly worried tone as she straightened her pose and stared at Sarah.

"The McClains happened." Sarah answered with a small frown.

"What'd they do this time?" The woman asked as she pulled out a notepad and pen.

"He made a bunch of homophobic and xenophobic remarks, threatened me without literally threatening me, and ta top it all off he flashed his gun at us." Sarah explained with a straight face.

"He did what?! Oh no, that shit don't fly in my town. Y'all wait here while I go grab the sheriff." The woman replied as she quickly stood up and left the room.

"So the McClain's are up ta their old crap again huh?" A man's voice called out from a cell.

"Howdy Mr. Herrera. What are ya doing in there?" Sarah asked with a smile as she approached the cell.

"My dumb ass got drunk and started a fight in the bar last night. Had a few too many after a rough day at work." The man answered with a small chuckle.

"That's alright, hope ya two didn't hurt each other too bad though." Sarah chuckled as she sat down in a chair by the cell.

"The only who got hurt was me, and that's just because my drunk ass punched a support column." The man answered with a smile as he showed Sarah his bruised and swollen hand.

"It could've been worse." Sarah said with a smile as she looked at his hand.

"Yeah, I could've actually hit 'em. Then I'd have an assault charge instead of a drunk and disorderly. Oh well, that's life sometimes I suppose." The man quietly replied as he laid on the bed.

"Sorry ta keep ya waiting Sarah, so what happened? I hear thangs got a little heated between yer friends and the McClain fellas." The sherif asked as he pulled out his notepad.

"That's an understatement." Usagi mumbled as she leaned against a wall.

"How so young lady?" The sheriff asked as he looked at Usagi.

"The bastard flashed his gun at us. We panicked and things went to hell, at least to me they did." Usagi quietly answered with a sigh. "All I want is a break from the chaos. I want peace, I wanna be left alone by all the monsters in this god forsaken universe!" Usagi screamed as she kicked the wall.

"Calm down there missy, it ain't the end of the world. They're two assholes who flashed a gun, it could've been worse. It sure as heck ain't the end of the universe er nothing." The sherif quietly replied with a straight face.

"What would you know about the end of the world?! How many demons have you fought against?! How many people have you had to kill?! How many bullets have you dodged while running for your life or running to save someone else's?! How many times have you had watch people you care about die, knowing you were completely useless to help them?" Usagi cried as she stared at the sheriff. The sheriff was completely stunned by what he'd just heard, not to mention confused.

"What are ya talking 'bout? What do demons er any of that other stuff have ta do with this?" The sherif asked as he looked at Sarah.

"Sorry sherif, I think the incident just kind of triggered her a bit. They's been through some rough stuff." Sarah quietly explained with a small frown.

"I hate ta even ask Sarah, but they ain't on anythang right?" The sherif asked as he looked into Usagi's eyes.

"We're not on drugs, but if we told you the truth you'd sure think we were." Ami quietly said with a small frown.

"Try me." The sherif replied as he looked at Ami.

"We're not normal sir. I don't know how to explain it, so I'll just show you." Ami quietly said as she pulled out her wand. "Mercury crystal power, make up." Ami quietly said as she started her transformation sequence.

"Holly shit!" The sherif yelled as he back away from Usagi and went to grab his gun.

"No don't! It's okay sherif, just let it happen. It ain't nothing bad." Sarah informed as she watched Ami finish transforming.

"Dear lord. I don't believe my eyes, y're one of tham gals. Them uh, sailor whatchamacallits, from Japan." The sherif quietly said as he stared at Mercury.

"Yeah. Long story short there was a battle and a hole was torn between our universe and another one. That's where all the crazy stuff happened. It's also where we got the guns we're wearing now." Mercury quietly said as she let down her transformation.

"Okay, ya've convinced me of yer sanity." The sherif said with a straight face as he looked over at Usagi. "So that's what she was talking about. I'm sorry that y'all had ta go through such horrible thangs at such a young age." The sheriff quietly said as he looked back at Ami.

"Us to." Ami quietly replied with a small frown.

"Well don't any of yas worry 'bout tham McClain boys, we'll take care of 'em. Y'all just focus on resting up on vacation." The sheriff said with a smile.

"Thank you." Usagi quietly replied with a few tears.

"Hey now, no tears there missy, not on vacation." The sheriff quietly said as he handed Usagi a tissue box from a desk.

"Yes sir." Usagi replied with a sniffle as she dabbed at her tears with one of the tissues.

"Why don't ya take yer friends back home Sarah, I think it would be a good idea fer all of yas ta relax and try ta fergett about this little mishap with tham fellers." The sheriff suggested with a small smile.

"I think so to sheriff." Sarah replied as she started leading everyone out of the station.

"Thank you for your help sir." Usagi quietly thanked as she left, followed by everyone else.

"Come on everyone, let's get home." Sarah said as she lead everyone back to her ambulance. Sarah and everyone else slowly walked back to the ambulance, never knowing that they were being watched.

"They're gonna get what's coming ta 'em, we's just gotta be patient and play our cards right." McClain quietly said as he watched everyone from his truck.

"We's got everythang set up in the old warehouse, ya just gotta give the word." His brother said with a grin as he watched Sarah drive away.

"Not yet bro, not yet." McClain replied with an evil smirk. While the McClains sat talking in their truck, Sarah was driving back towards her house with a big smile on her face.

"Well other than the issues with tham McClain boys I hope y'all had fun." Sarah said with a smile as she looked at everyone through her rear view mirror.

"Tons of fun Sarah, and sorry about freaking out back there. I'm sure we didn't really help the situation by doing what we did." Usagi quietly replied with a small frown.

"It couldn't've gotten any worse no matter what any of yas did, and personally I think ya made the right call. They tried ta hide it, but when y'all pulled yer guns they were definitely afraid. They like ta talk big, but when push comes ta shove they fold faster than my pa in any card game." Sarah replied with a chuckle as she pulled into her driveway.

"Thank you for the time out on the town Sarah, it was a nice experience apart from the end." Kaede said with a smile as she got out of the ambulance.

"I'm glad y'all had a good time, now let's go rest fer a while." Sarah said with a smile as she turned the ambulance off and got out of it.

"That sounds good Sarah." Kaede replied as she held her hand out to Sarah.

"Come on everyone, let's get inside and rest for a bit. Maybe if it's not too late we can go swimming later if it's okay with Sarah." Usagi suggested as she helped Naru, Shingo, and Chibiusa out of the ambulance.

"I'd love that sis." Shingo replied as he started walking towards the house.

"Come on guys, let's go." Mako said with a smile as she hopped out of the ambulance, followed by Rei, Minako, and Ami.

"We're back!" Sarah yelled as she lead everyone into the house.

"Well that took a while, did y'all have fun?" Jud asked as he looked towards the door from his chair.

"We did fer the most part, McClains tried ta mess with us though." Sarah informed as she sat down in the living room by her dad.

"They did did they? The four of us is gonna have ta have a talk, and by four of us I means me, them, and my shotgun." Jud replied as he looked at Sarah.

"Oh Jud, ya always say the craziest thangs." Emily said with a sigh as she walked into the living room. "Y're right though, tham boys is trouble. They didn't hurt any of yas did they?" Emily asked as she looked at everyone around the room.

"Not really, they made some threats and rude comments, but they never actually touched us." Usagi answered with a small smile.

"Good, otherwise I'd have ta actually condone my husband's crazy four way conversation." Emily chuckled as she sat down next to Jud.

"Where're our parents?" Kaede asked as she looked at Emily.

"They's horseback riding. Yer mama Mizuno's loving it, and she's a natural at it to." Emily answered with a chuckle as the door opened.

"Speak of the devil. Howdy y'all, how'd it go?" Jud asked as everyone walked in the door.

"Oh my god, Mizuno-San's way too good at this for this to be her first day on a horse." Ikuko answered with a smile.

"Is that so?" Jud asked with a chuckle as he looked at Saeko.

"Yes, if we didn't know any better I'd say she'd been doing this her whole life. She was flying on that horse, and she was in total control the whole time. Unlike me who got bucked off." Kenji chuckled as he stretched a little.

"Ya didn't hurt yerself did ya?" Jud asked with a worried expression.

"Nothing a little stretching and a good nights sleep can't fix." Kenji replied as he twisted around, popping something in his back as he did. "That and maybe some ibuprofen." Kenji said with a smile as he put his hand on his back.

"I've got it Tsukino-San." Kaede quietly said as she held her hand up. "Europa moon power, make up." Kaede called out as she started her transformation.

"AH! She's doing it again!" Emily yelled as she stared at Kaede.

"Will ya calm down, y're like a kid on Christmas." Jud said as he looked at his wife.

"I can't help it, they're so cool!" Emily shouted as she stared in awe at Europa.

"Let me get them out of my bag." Europa said as she held her hand out and summoned her bag.

"Woah! Where'd that thang come from?!" Jud shouted as he stared at Europa's bag.

"Another dimension." Europa answered as she dug a bottle of pills out of her bag. "Here, take as many as you need." Europa said as she handed Kenji the bottle.

"Thank you Kaede-Chan." Kenji thanked as he took the bottle and shook two pills out of it.

"You're welcome Tsukino-San." Europa replied as she put the bottle back and sent her bag away.

"Is something bothering you Kaede, you sound really down?" Saeko asked as she looked at Europa.

"One of the McClain's flashed a gun at us and we lost it. Everything came rushing back so fast that I'm still trying to put it all away. I don't wanna be depressed on vacation, especially not around Sarah. But when he flashed that gun I saw everything all over again. I saw Sasha and that girl who shot her, I was so scared that I was gonna make the same mistake and get Sarah killed to. I was so close to just shooting them both out of pure rage. Is that the kind of person I've become, the kind that just let's her emotions dictate everything she does? I'm more of a mess up here than I thought." Europa quietly said as she patted her head.

"No. If that were true then you would've killed them Kaede, but you didn't, you let them both live. That's the kind of person you are Kaede, the kind that only fights when she has to. You're a good person Kaede, don't let one off thought determine who you are. We all have times when we let our emotions speak louder than our logic, it's just part of being human." Naru quietly said with a smile as she put her hand over Europa's shoulder.

"Thanks Naru, you always know just what to say." Europa quietly thanked as she hugged Naru.

"I have to, it's the only way I can help the team." Naru chuckled as she let go of Europa.

"We should do something to ease our minds, does anyone have any ideas?" Usagi asked as she looked around the room at everyone.

"I don't know 'bout the rest of yas, but this gal's feeling like a dip in the water." Sarah said with a smile as she stood up.

"That sounds like fun." Europa replied as she let down her transformation and stood up.

"Yeah it does. Come everyone, let's go get our suits on." Mako said with a smile as she started heading towards the stairs.

"Wait up sis!" Kaede yelled as she and everyone else ran after Mako.

"Hey Ami?" Chibiusa asked with a smile as she looked up at Ami.

"Yes Chibiusa?" Ami asked as she looked down at Chibiusa.

"Is it okay if I borrow your floaty, I don't think anyone packed me one?" Chibiusa asked with a small smile.

"Of course Chibiusa." Ami answered with a smile as everyone entered Sarah's room.

"Let me grab my suit and then I'll leave you all to change." Shingo said with a smile as he quickly dug through his bag and pulled his suit out of it.

"Thanks Shingo." Usagi thanked with a smile as Shingo walked out of the room and closed the door behind him.

"I can't wait to go for a dip in the water, it'll feel good after all that walking around in the heat." Minako said with a smile as she started undressing.

"Tell me about it, this Texas heat is brutal." Ami said with a smile as she also undressed. "Uh, look at this thing." Ami mumbled as she looked at herself in the mirror. "Mako be honest, do I look fatter than I did this morning?" Ami asked as she turned around and looked at Mako.

"No Ami, you look the same." Mako answered without even looking at her.

"You didn't even look." Ami grumbled as she started getting her swimsuit on.

"I don't need to look Ami, there's no way you gained or lost any weight since this morning." Mako chuckled as she finished getting her swimsuit on.

"I guess that's true." Ami replied as she poked her doughy middle.

"Will ya let it go Ami, there ain't nothing wrong with that little tummy of yers." Sarah said with a chuckle as she slipped her swimsuit on and tried to latch the top. "Ya wanna talk 'bout putting on weight, the strings on my dang top won't reach each other." Sarah grumbled as she pulled at the strings on her top.

"That's because there's a knot in it." Kaede chuckled as she grabbed the strings on Sarah's top.

"Oh. Thanks darling." Sarah replied with a smile as Kaede tied her top for her.

"Any time." Kaede replied as she turned around and held her strings out to Sarah. "Your turn to lend a hand." Kaede chuckled.

"Don't mind if I do darling." Sarah replied with a smile as she tied Kaede's top.

"Does this suit make me look fat Rei?" Minako asked as she turned around and looked at Rei.

"Just in the places that should be." Rei answered with a grin as she stared at Minako's chest.

"OH! You dirty minded breast addict! What kind of shrine maiden are you?!" Minako yelled as she covered her chest and glared at Rei.

"The kind that likes your body." Rei answered with a smirk as she grabbed Minako and pulled her close.

"Well, I guess that's an okay answer." Minako giggled as she kissed Rei.

"Are we all ready?" Usagi asked as she finished tying her top.

"Yep, now lets go swimming everyone." Naru answered as she latched her top.

"Alright y'all, let's go see if Shingo's ready and then head on down ta the swimming hole!" Sarah yelled as she opened her door and lead everyone out of the room.

"Shingo!" Usagi yelled as she knocked on the door to Shingo's room.

"Coming!" Shingo yelled back as he walked out of the room. "Ready?" Shingo asked with a smile as he looked at everyone.

"Yep!" Usagi answered with a smile.

"You look different sis." Shingo said with a straight face as he stared at Usagi.

"You think so?" Usagi asked as she looked down at herself.

"Yeah. You look like you lost weight." Shingo replied with a smile.

"Really?" Usagi asked as she looked at herself again. "Thanks Shingo, it's always nice to hear that. Even if it's not true." Usagi giggled as she gave Shingo a pat on his shoulder.

"Whatever Usagi lost I found." Ami said with a giggle as she looked down at her belly.

"And I'm glad that you did." Mako chuckled as she hugged Ami.

"You know what Mako, I am to." Ami said with a smile as she hugged Mako back.

"Awe." Everyone said with smiles as they stared at the two of them.

"Let's go everyone, before they get too close." Naru chuckled as she started leading everyone away.

"Wait! We almost forgot the floaty." Usagi yelled as she ran back into Sarah's room and dug through one of Ami's bags. "Here you go Chibiusa, just in case." Usagi said with a smile as she handed the deflated floaty to Chibiusa.

"Thank you Usagi." Chibiusa thanked as she took the floaty.

"Thank Ami, she's the one who's lending it to you." Usagi replied with a smile as she looked at Ami.

"Thank you Ami." Chibiusa thanked with a smile.

"You're welcome Chibiusa." Ami replied as she started walking towards the stairs.

"We'll blow it up for you once we get outside." Naru informed as she and everyone else started following Ami down the steps.

"Y'all going fer a swim?" Jud asked as everyone walked towards the front door.

"Yeah pa, we'll see yas in a bit." Sarah replied as she lead everyone out the front door.

"Have fun everyone!" Saeko yelled as she watched everyone walk away.

"Well the kids are going swimming and left the house ta the adults and three cats, what do y'all wanna do?" Jud asked as he looked around at everyone.

"Do you know how to play cards?" Kenji asked with a smile.

"Know how? It's one of my favorite past times! What game y'all wanna play?" Jud asked with a grin as he dug a deck of cards out of a drawer.

"You play poker?" Kenji asked with a smile.

"It's my favorite game!" Jud shouted with enthusiasm.

"All in favor of a poker game say I." Emily instructed with a smile.

"I!" Everyone answered with smiles.

"Do you mind if we play as well?" Artemis asked as he hoped up on the table.

"A cat playing poker. That's gonna be a fun game." Jud said with a smile as he went and grabbed the deck of cards.

"Grab the card holders to Jud, otherwise our furry friends may not be able ta hold their cards. No offense er nothing." Emily said with a smile as she looked at Luna, Artemis, and Diana.

"None taken, I think it'd be hard to hold cards as well." Luna replied as she waved her paw at Emily.

"Alright folks, let's have a good game." Jud said with a smile as he started dealing out cards and chips. While the adults started their game, everyone was just about to the swimming hole.

"Oh wow." Kaede quietly said as she stared in awe at the giant pond in front of her.

"Wow Sarah, when you said a swimming hole I was picturing a small hole, not a whole big huge pond." Naru said with a smile as she stared at the large pond in front of her.

"I'd almost call this a small lake rather than a large pond." Usagi quietly said with a big smile.

"Yep, it's a man made water hole. Its diameter is a hundred and fifty feet, fer ya folks in the metric system that's about fifty meters in diameter." Sarah explained with a smile.

"How deep is it?" Ami asked as she stared into the clear blue water.

"'Bout twelve feet." Sarah answered as she stretched a little.

"We'd best get your floaty Chibiusa." Usagi said with a smile as she started inflating Chibiusa's floaty.

"Thanks Usagi." Chibiusa thanked with a smile.

"I assume the rest of yas can swim right?" Sarah asked as she looked back at everyone.

"As long as Ami hasn't hit her head." Mako chuckled as she gently nudged Ami.

"There you go Chibiusa." Usagi said with a smile as she handed Chibiusa her floaty.

"Thank you Usagi." Chibiusa thanked as she took the floaty and put it over herself.

"Can we dive in now?" Minako asked as she stood at the edge of the pond.

"I'd be insulted if ya didn't." Sarah answered with a chuckle as she jumped in the water.

"Woohoo!" Everyone yelled as they all dove into the water.

"Oh my god, this feels so nice." Naru said with a smile as she floated on her back.

"I know, it's the perfect temperature." Usagi quietly replied with a content sigh as she floated on her back.

"It's so clear to. Despite it's depth I can see almost to the bottom." Ami said with a smile as she swam around.

"How do you keep it so clear Sarah?" Kaede asked as she swam over by Sarah.

"I don't know ta be honest. I guess it's just got the right balance of various types of bacteria er whatever in it." Sarah answered with a chuckle.

"Cool." Kaede replied as she took a breath and dove under the water.

"You know what would make this even cooler." Minako said with a smile as she looked at Rei.

"A diving board?" Rei asked as she looked back at Minako.

"Yes! Oh my god Rei, it's like you read my mind!" Minako shouted with a big smile.

"Oh I'd love ta have a diving board fer this thang. Unfortunately they's really pricy." Sarah said with a small smile.

"A diving board?" Ami asked as she looked at Sarah.

"Yeah, that'd be perfect fer this pond." Sarah said with a smile as she looked back at Ami.

"Oh that's easy, how high do you want it?" Ami asked as she hopped out of the pond.

"Maybe a twelve footer." Sarah said with a smile as she stared at Ami.

"One twelve foot diving board coming right up." Ami said with a smile as she held her hands out.

"What are you doing Ami?" Mako asked with a confused look as she stared at Ami.

"Making a diving board." Ami answered as she focused on her hands.

"How are you gonna..." Usagi started asking, until she went silent with surprise as Ami started making a diving board out of solid ice.

"Woah! I didn't know you could do that without transforming!" Naru yelled as she watched Ami mold a diving board out of solid ice.

"There we go." Ami said with a small breath as she sat down and looked up at the board.

"How'd ya do that without transforming?! That's wicked Ami!" Sarah yelled as she stared at the diving board.

"I...just sort of did." Ami answered with a small breath as she got back on her feet.

"Wow. How long ya think it'll last before it melts?" Sarah asked as she stared up at the board.

"Forever. It's made of magical permafrost." Ami answered with a smile as she started climbing to the top of the diving board.

"Wait fer me!" Sarah yelled as she started climbing up after Ami.

"Not yet Sarah, I wanna make sure it's stable!" Ami yelled back as she reached the top of the board. "Wish me luck!" Ami yelled down to everyone as she stood at the edge of the board. "Here I go." Ami quietly said to herself as she dove off the board and into the water. "That was so much fun! Okay everyone, the board is definitely stable!" Ami yelled as she swam to the edge of the pond.

"WOOHOO!" Everyone shouted as they all started scrambling towards the ladder.

"I'm gonna do a flip!" Mako shouted as she jumped off the board and did two flips before landing feet first in the water.

"Nice dive Mako!" Usagi yelled from the top of the board. "My turn." Usagi said with a smile as she dove head first from the board and landed with a small splash.

"Nice dive Usagi, that was perfect form!" Naru shouted down at Usagi.

"Come on Naru, it's lots of fun!" Usagi yelled back with a smile.

"Alright!" Naru yelled back as she jumped from the board and did a triple flip before landing gracefully in the water.

"Did you see that?!" Rei shouted as she stared down at Naru.

"No one's topping that for sure." Minako replied as she also stared down at Naru.

"Holly cow Naru, that was incredible!" Usagi yelled as she swam over to Naru and hugged her.

"You really think so?" Naru asked with a small blush.

"Absolutely! You just a did a triple flip then transferred into a perfect entry. That was Olympic level awesome!" Ami said with a smile as she also hugged Naru.

"Wow. Thank you Ami." Naru quietly said with a small blush.

"Look who's embarrassed now." Ami said with a grin as she poked Naru a few times.

"Coming down!" Rei shouted as she dove off the board.

"Here comes Rei." Mako said with a smile as she watched Rei dive off the board.

"OH!" Everyone shouted as they watched Rei land on her butt.

"Ouch." Rei quietly said as she sank below the water.

"Rei!" Everyone shouted as they started at the spot Rei had gone under.

"Oh my god, that hurt sooo much." Rei groaned as she slowly resurfaced.

"Let's get you out of the water and take a look at that." Ami quietly said as she slowly helped Rei out of the pond.

"Did I break my butt?" Rei asked as she laid stomach down on the grass.

"I think it's okay, it just has a crack in it." Ami answered with a giggle.

"That's the most dated butt joke in the world." Rei groaned as she rolled back into the water.

"That's what makes it so good though. It's an antique joke." Ami replied with a smile as she also got back in the water.

"Who's gonna jump next?!" Usagi shouted up to everyone on the board.

"I am!" Shingo shouted as he approached the edge of the board.

"Be careful Shingo! Don't do anything fancy at first, just focus on proper diving technique!" Usagi shouted up at him.

"Okay!" Shingo yelled back as he jumped off the board, landing feet first in the water. "That was fun!" Shingo shouted as he surfaced and looked at Usagi.

"Good job Shingo!" Usagi yelled with a smile as she looked up at Chibiusa. "You okay up there Chibiusa?!" Usagi shouted with a smile.

"M-Maybe!" Chibiusa answered as she stared down at the water.

"You don't have to do it if you don't wanna Chibiusa!" Ami said with a smile as she looked up at Chibiusa.

"I don't wanna do it, I'm scared!" Chibisua yelled back with a small frown.

"That's okay Chibiusa. Hold on, I have an idea!" Ami yelled as she swam to the edge of the pond and got out. "Try this Chibiusa!" Ami yelled as she started making another icy structure. "Here you go Chibiusa, a nice safe slide!" Ami yelled with a smile as she quickly made some water and ran it down the slide.

"Thank you Ami!" Chibiusa yelled as she ran to the slide and climbed up it. "Cool! A big tube slide of ice!" Chibisua yelled as she jumped in the slide and went down it. "That was fun!" Chibusa yelled as she went back up the ladder to do it again.

"Have fun Chibiusa." Ami said with a smile as she jumped back in the water.

"Coming down!" Minako yelled as she dove off the board and did two flips before landing feet first in the water.

"Nice jump Minako." Rei said with a smile as she swam over by Minako.

"Thanks Rei." Minako thanked with a smile.

"Yay! I'm up!" Sarah shouted as she stood at the edge of the board. "Canon ball!" Sarah yelled as she jumped of the board, did a flip, then curled into a ball.

"WOOHOO!" Nice splash Sarah!" Kaede yelled from the top of the board as she looked down at Sarah.

"Thanks darling, now it's yer turn!" Sarah yelled back with a big smile.

"Okay!" Kaede shouted as she stood at the edge of the board, then turned around.

"No way!" Mako yelled as she stared up at Kaede.

"Is she doing what I think she's doing?!" Naru asked as she also stared up at Kaede.

"Yeah she is!" Minako shouted as she started cheering.

"Do it! Do it! Do it!" Rei cheered as she stared at Kaede.

"BAAAAAACK FLIIIIIIIIP!"Kaede shouted as she back flipped off the board, did two full rotations mid air, then dove head first into the water.

"WOOOOOOOAH! That was awesome!" Everyone shouted as they all stared at Kaede.

"Thanks everyone." Kaede thanked with a smile.

"That was so much fun, thanks fer making that fer us Ami." Sarah thanked with a smile as she swam over by Ami and hugged her.

"You're welcome Sarah." Ami replied as she hugged Sarah back.

"Hey she made a slide to." Minako said with a smile as she swam over by Chibiusa's slide and climbed the small ladder.

"Wait Mina, that slide is..." Ami tried to warn, but Minako had already started going down before she could finish.

"AH!" Minako shouted as she came to a jerking halt at the bottom of the slide.

"Chibiusa sized." Ami quietly finished as she stared at Minako.

"Seriously?! What is it about me and slides?!" Minako shouted as she tried to get out of the slide.

"I can't believe this, it happened again!" Rei yelled as she fell to the ground laughing. "Mina likes big butts and cannot slide!" Rei yelled as she continued laughing.

"I do not have a big butt!" Minako shouted as she struggled to get out of the slide.

"The slide disagrees!" Rei yelled back with a torrent of laughter.

"Come on Rei, help a girl out will you?" Minako asked as she stared at Rei.

"Okay bubble butt." Rei chuckled as she swam over by Minako and took her hands.

"Bubble butt?!" Minako shouted with a horrified expression.

"I'm just teasing Mina, we all know that you don't have a bubble butt. Just a bubble chest." Rei chuckled as she yanked Minako out of the slide.

"You're so cruel to me." Minako mumbled as she rubbed her butt.

"But you love it." Rei replied as she slapped Minako's butt.

"Rei!" Minako shouted as she quickly turned around and covered her butt.

"Relax Mina, it's nothing I haven't done before." Rei chuckled as she patted Minako's butt again.

"You're such a pig sometimes Rei." Minako grumbled as she stared at Rei.

"Does that mean I should snuffle like one?" Rei asked with a grin as she leaned in towards Minako's chest.

"REI HINO! What has gotten into you today?!" Minako shouted as she backed away from Rei.

"I don't know! I'm sorry Mina, I just...you're so...UH!" Rei shouted as she slumped her head over Minako's shoulder.

"What's going on with you Rei, you've been acting funny and much more bold in your advances lately?" Minako asked with a small frown as she hugged Rei.

"I'm sorry Mina, I guess I just...I don't know. I'm afraid to say anything because I don't want you think I'm moving too fast but...I wanna...I wanna..." Rei stuttered as she stared into Minako's eyes.

"Oh. I see now. Why didn't you just talk to me about that Rei? I'm ready to, but I didn't wanna move too fast for you." Minako quietly said with a smile as she hugged Rei.

"Really?" Rei quietly asked as she stared into Minako's eyes.

"Yes Rei, for a while I've been waiting for that moment. I just didn't wanna rush you, I want it to be special." Minako quietly said as she brushed some hair out of Rei's eye.

"I want it to be special to." Rei quietly replied as she pulled herself closer to Minako.

"Awe." Everyone quietly said as they all stared at Rei and Minako.

"What are they talking about Usagi?" Chibiusa asked as she looked up at Usagi.

"OH! They're um...talking about... Stop asking questions and go back to swimming Chibiusa!" Usagi yelled as she picked Chibiusa up and dropped her in the water.

"Guess we know which one of us is gonna have to have that talk with her when it's time." Naru quietly said as she looked back at Usagi.

"Uh, I can't even imagine." Usagi replied with a shudder.

"That was mean Usagi!" Chibisua yelled as she spat some water out.

"Maybe a little. I'm sorry Chibiusa, I just panicked. I'm not ready to give that talk yet, and you're definitely not ready to hear it." Usagi quietly apologized as she picked Chibiusa up.

"What talk?" Chibiusa asked with a confused expression.

"The talk we're not talking about until you're in your late teens. At least!" Usagi answered as she handed Chibiusa to Naru.

"Usagi's weird." Chibiusa said with a smile as she looked at Naru.

"That's what makes her so lovable though." Naru chuckled as she poked Chibiusa's belly.

"Y'all 'bout ready ta head on inside?" Sarah asked as she hopped out of the water and grabbed her towel.

"Yep, I think we're all good Sarah." Mako answered as she stretched a little bit and got out of the water, followed by Ami.

"Wonder what we're gonna do fer dinner tonight?" Sarah thought out loud as she got out of the water, then held a hand out to Kaede.

"Who knows, maybe try a restaurant or something." Kaede suggested as she took Sarah's hand and pulled herself out of the water.

"Oh I know just the place darling." Sarah said with a smile as she grabbed a towel. "Turn around Kaede." Sarah instructed with a smile as she held the towel up to Kaede.

"Why thank you." Kaede chuckled as she turned around and Sarah started drying her off.

"Here's your towel Ami." Mako said with a smile as she went to hand Ami a towel.

"Thank you Mako, but I don't need it." Ami replied as she let out a small breath. All the water on her body suddenly froze solid, and with one hard chop it all shattered off of her. "Ta da!" Ami yelled with a smile.

"That was so cool Ami!" Shingo yelled as he stared at Ami.

"Thank you Shingo, I can try and do the same thing to you if you want me to." Ami suggested with a smile.

"R-really?" Shingo asked with a small blush.

"Oh! Someone's crushing on your girlfriend Mako!" Usagi shouted with a laugh.

"I am not!" Shingo yelled back with a dark red blush.

"You so are! Look at your face, it's as red as Rei's outfit!" Usagi yelled back with a laugh.

"Sh-Shut up Usagi!" Shingo stuttered as he turned an even deeper red.

"It's okay Shingo, there's nothing to be ashamed of." Ami said with a smile as she kneeled down next to him.

"I'm sorry Ami, I don't mean to be weird. I just...when I think about you I feel safe. I still remember that day that you saved me from drowning after our raft drifted to far from the beach. I guess since then I've kinda, maybe started crushing on you. I'm so sorry Ami, I know that you're with Mako and that you're older than me, but I just..." Shingo quietly said with a small frown, until Ami gave him a small kiss on his cheek.

"You're a very sweet young man Shingo, but I'm too old for you; plus I'm gay. Don't worry though, I know that somewhere out there is a young woman who's gonna be lucky to have you." Ami said with a smile as she put a hand on Shingo's shoulder.

"Really?" Shingo asked with a big smile.

"Yes, you're a very sweet person who's gonna make a lucky girl very happy one day." Ami answered with a smile as she stood up. "As for you Usagi." Ami said with a grin as she flicked her hand at Usagi, freezing her feet to the ground. "That's for picking on your brother." Ami said with a grin as she started walking away.

"Hey! You can't do this to me, I'm your princess!" Usagi shouted as she looked down at her frozen feet.

"Then you should've been ready for that, mighty princess!" Ami yelled with a smile as she continued walking towards the house.

"Ami!" Usagi yelled as she watched Ami walk further away. "This is so cruel." Usagi grumbled as she picked a stick up and tried chiseling out of the ice with it. Shingo burst out laughing as he watched Usagi try and chisel her feet out of the ice with a measly stick.

"Damn Usagi, Ami just put you in your place." Rei chuckled as she watched Usagi try and chisel herself out.

"I can't believe she did this to me. When did Ami get so vindictive?" Usagi said in a shocked tone as she kept trying to chisel the ice away.

"You want help Usagi?" Rei asked with a chuckle.

"Please." Usagi answered with a small frown.

"Okay I'll help you, but you have to apologize to Shingo first." Rei said with an evil grin. Usagi let out a small sigh then turned her head towards Shingo.

"Shingo, I'm sorry that I laughed at you for having a crush on Ami. I promise not to pick on you about it anymore." Usagi apologized with a straight face.

"I forgive you sis." Shingo replied with a smile.

"That's good enough for me I guess. Hold still Usagi." Rei instructed with a smile as she put her hands on the ice and started melting it.

"I didn't know you could use your powers without transforming." Usagi quietly said as she stared at Rei. Rei slowly looked at her hands with a shocked expression.

"Neither did I. I don't know why I did what I did, it was just instinct. That's super weird." Rei quietly said as she continued to stare at her hands. "I hope that doesn't become a habit, unlike Ami if my powers start doing things on their own it could be really bad." Rei quietly said as she continued to stare at her hands.

"We're gonna have to keep an eye on that Rei." Usagi quietly said as she took Rei's hand and looked at it.

"Maybe I should take a look at her." Kaede suggested as she stared at Rei's hands.

"Do you even know what you should be looking for though?" Minako asked with a small frown.

"Not necessarily, but I might happen to find something out of the ordinary if I just give her a few scans." Kaede replied as she held her hand in the air. "Europa moon power, make up." Kaede called out as she began her transformation. "Alright Rei, hold out your hands again." Europa instructed as she turned her visor on.

"Okay." Rei quietly replied as she held her hands out to Europa.

"Let's see here." Europa quietly said to herself as she started scanning Rei's hands, as well as the rest of her body. "Well that's odd." Europa mumbled as she continued scanning Rei.

"What's odd?" Rei asked in a nervous tone.

"There's something pulsating towards your core, it's almost like a second heart beat." Europa quietly explained in a confused tone.

"Is it the core of her chest?" Usagi asked with a straight face.

"Yeah, how'd you know that?" Europa asked as she looked up at Usagi.

"I think I know what's pulsating. It's your star seed Rei, that must be why your powers are evolving. The question is why, what could've triggered that?" Usagi quietly wondered out loud.

"Could it have anythang ta do with that weird place y'all ended up in?" Sarah asked with a straight face as she stared at Usagi.

"It's not likely considering we've been back for over a month and this is just now happening." Usagi answered with a thoughtful expression.

"Could it be that it's just Rei's time to awaken like Ami did?" Naru asked with a smile as she looked at Rei.

"That could be, but that doesn't explain how or why this is happening." Usagi replied as she stared at Rei's chest.

"She's right, something had to have triggered this. Something deeper than just time passing, because if that was the case then I should also be able to fully tap into any latent abilities that I have." Minako explained with a thoughtful expression.

"This is gonna sound really cheesy, but do you think it has something to do with her admission of how deep her feelings are for you?" Mako asked with a small smile.

"What?!" Everyone simultaneously yelled in surprise.

"Well think about it, the closer Ami and I got the more powerful she became. Remember when she launched that huge icicle through that youmas chest because it was crushing the life out of me? I really feel that the deeper our feelings the greater our power." Mako explained with a smile as she put an arm around Ami's shoulders.

"You might be on to something Mako, remember how you reacted when that other monster dropped a building on Ami at that construction sight? You disintegrated the thing immediately afterwards." Usagi replied with a smile.

"Or how Rei protected Ami and I from those Marlyians." Minako quietly said with a small frown.

"So our strength is linked to our feelings of love?" Kaede asked with a confused look.

"It would appear so." Ami answered with a small smile.

"Well that's kinda cheesy, now I feel like a fairytale character. At this rate I'll be saying cheesy lines like the stronger my love for thee the more power I have to protect thee." Kaede chuckled.

"It may sound cheesy Kaede, but cheesy or not that's what's happening." Usagi said with a chuckle.

"It ain't that cheesy, I think it's kinda sweet." Sarah said with a smile as she gave Kaede a kiss on her cheek.

"Speaking of things that are cheesy and sweet, I'm getting kind of hungry." Usagi said with a smile.

"How do you get hungry from hearing the words cheesy and sweet in the same sentence, that would be a terrible flavor combination?" Rei asked with a chuckle.

"I don't know, my brain's just funny." Usagi replied with a chuckle.

"Well why don't we go and talk ta ma and pa and see where we're going tonight fer dinner. There's a place I wanna take y'all ta." Sarah suggested as she started walking towards her house.

"Sounds good to me." Kaede replied as she ran up to Sarah.

"Wait for us!" Mako shouted as she and everyone else ran after them.

"I can't wait to see what kinds of cool restaurants they have out here." Chibiusa said with a smile as she walked alongside Naru and Usagi.

"I can't either, I hope they have a good burger place." Naru replied with a smile as she held her hand out to Usagi.

"I hope they do to, I could really go for a cheeseburger right now." Usagi said with a smile as she took Naru's hand in her own.

"There ya are, y'all have a good swim?" Emily asked with a smile as everyone walked into the house.

"Yeah! Ami made us a diving board outa permafrost, it ain't ever gonna melt!" Sarah yelled with enthusiasm.

"Even in our southern heat?" Jud asked with a smile.

"Even in that!" Sarah shouted back with excitement.

"That's awesome Sarah! Thank ya fer making that Ami, Sarah's always wanted one of tham thangs." Emily thanked with a smile.

"You're welcome Mrs. Blouse." Ami replied with a smile.

"Awe come on!" Saeko suddenly yelled in a disappointed tone.

"What's wrong mom?!" Ami yelled in a worried tone as she rushed over to her mom.

"I just lost four games in a row to a cat." Saeko answered with a sigh as she pushed the pile of chips over to Luna.

"Sorry Mizuno-San." Luna chuckled as she wrapped her tail around the pile and pulled it closer.

"If it makes you feel better Mizuno-San, so did we." Kenji said with a chuckle as he set his cards down.

"I didn't know that you knew how to play cards Luna." Usagi said with a smile as she walked over by Luna.

"What did you think we did all the time while you were all at school?" Luna asked with a smile as she looked back at Usagi.

"Sleep like most cats." Usagi answered with a giggle.

"That was only eighty percent of the time." Luna replied with a smile as she hopped off the table.

"Shall we get ready ta go ta dinner?" Emily asked as she gathered up the chips and cards from everyone.

"What about Luna, Artemis, and Diana? I just realized that a restaurant isn't gonna let us bring three cats with us." Saeko asked with a straight face.

"I think we can convince 'em ta let our furry friends tag along. All they's gotta do is talk." Emily replied with a grin.

"Wait, you want us to talk to other humans?!" Luna asked in a shocked tone.

"I sure do, because anyone who asks questions is gonna shut up right quick after hearing ya talk." Emily answered with a smile.

"What if they call the police or animal control, or something worse?!" Ikuko asked in a worried tone.

"Talk ta tham to, but y'all won't have ta worry 'bout that. Folks around here are pertty chill." Sarah answered with a smile.

"Are you sure, because I wouldn't want anything to happen to any of them?" Usagi asked with a small frown.

"Ain't nothing gonna happen Usagi, if anyone tries ta touch 'em I'll give 'em a good ol' slap in the face. That'll distract 'em long enough ta get on outta there." Sarah answered with a smile.

"Very little phases you, huh Sarah." Minako said with a smile as she picked Artemis up.

"It sure don't. Now let's get dressed and get ready ta go." Sarah replied with a smile as she ran towards the stairs.

"Okay." Kaede said with a shrug as she followed Sarah.

"Maybe we should dress you three up for the occasion." Usagi said with a chuckle as she ran past Luna, Artemis, and Diana.

"I wouldn't put clothes on if Serenity herself ordered me to!" Luna yelled back with a grin.

"Wanna bet?!" Usagi yelled from the top of the stairs.

"No thank you!" Luna yelled back with a giggle.

"Welp, I'ma feed the horses real quick before we go." Jud informed as he walked out the door.

"We's gonna have ta take two cars since even Sarah's ambulance can't fit all of us." Emily informed with a smile.

"She really has one? I thought they were all kidding about that. Saeko asked in a surprised tone.

"Nope. She wanted ta be a paramedic so bad at one point that she went out and got a decommissioned one from an old friend." Emily answered with a smile.

"That's kind of interesting." Saeko replied with a small smile.

"What does she wanna be now if you don't mind me asking?" Ikuko asked with a smile.

"She wants ta be a soldier like her pa and gramps." Emily answered with a small frown.

"Judging by your expression I'm guessing that you don't want her to be." Saeko quietly said with a straight face.

"I worry 'bout her going in ta that line of work, but I also want her ta be happy. If that's what she wants ta do then I'ma support her every step of the way. I just remember how tough it was when her pa was on deployment, wondering when er if he was coming back. It was scary ta me, but at the same time I couldn't've been more proud of him. I'm sure y'all know the feeling though with what yer gals do." Emily quietly said with a small smile.

"Yeah. We're proud of our girls, but it's so hard to see them run out the door in the middle of the night to fight a monster or whatever they fight. I remember the first time Ami ended up in the hospital after a battle, she coded twice that day. I was so scared that I took my frustration out on poor Mako who was already feeling awful as it was. I never forgave myself for the things I said to her that night." Saeko quietly replied with a sad sigh.

"Well you should Mizuno-San, whatever you said I'm sure it couldn't've been that bad." Kenji replied with a small smile.

"I basically told her that she wasn't my daughter anymore, and that what happened to Ami was all her fault and that I'd never forgive her for it. The look on her face when she ran out of that hospital. Every time I think about that night it breaks my heart. She looked liked she wanted to die, and she almost did. I almost drove a seventeen year old girl to suicide after blaming her for something that wasn't her fault. I will never forgive myself for that night." Saeko quietly explained with a small frown.

"It's okay mama Mizuno." Mako quietly said as she came down the steps.

"Mako! How much did you hear?" Saeko quietly asked with a small frown.

"All of it. But I don't want you to beat yourself up over that one night. Tensions were high, Ami was walking a tight rope between life and death, and we were all just scared and emotional. I mean, she's your daughter, and she was hurt really bad that day. If I had been in your shoes I probably would've blown up at someone as well. If I hadn't been there then you probably would've yelled at Usagi. It's okay though mama Mizuno, I forgave you a long time ago. Now you should forgive yourself." Mako quietly said as she hugged Saeko.

"Oh Mako. You're such a sweetheart." Saeko quietly said with a few tears as she hugged Mako back.

"So are you mama Mizuno, you changed my life forever. I wake up every day in a home with a mother who loves me instead of waking up alone wishing I wasn't. I feel safe and loved, I have someone to tell me how proud they are of me, or tell me it's okay when I have a bad day. I have a family that my parents would be grateful to see me in, and I have a girlfriend who makes me feel proud to be me." Mako quietly said with a sniffle as she cuddle up to Saeko.

"My little Kizuno." Saeko quietly said as she hugged Mako tighter.

"Awe." Everyone said with smiles.

"How long have you all been standing there?" Mako quietly asked as she looked up at everyone.

"Just long enough." Ami answered with a smile as she walked over by Mako and her mother.

"Normally I'd be embarrassed, but I'm too full of happiness to have any room for embarrassment." Mako chuckled as she pulled Ami into a family hug.

"Let's go before I cry from this heart tugging scene." Usagi said with a sniffle.

"Y-you're already crying you big baby." Rei said with a sniffle.

"Look who's talking." Minako said with a few tears.

"We should go before we have to pay for water related damages to Sarah's home." Ami chuckled as she let go of Saeko.

"I agree. Are we all ready?" Saeko asked with a smile as she looked at everyone.

"Yes ma'am." Jud answered as he walked back into the house and looked at everyone. "What'd I miss? Y'all look like y've been crying." Jud asked with a confused expression.

"We weren't crying, we're sweating out of our eyes." Rei said with a blush as she looked at the floor.

"Okay." Jud replied in a confused tone. "Well let's get going folks." Jud said with a smile as he walked back out the door.

"WOOHOO! Gimme that meat!" Sarah yelled with enthusiasm as she grabbed Kaede's hand and rushed out the door.

"I like the way she thinks!" Shingo yelled as he ran after Sarah, followed by everyone else.

"So we're gonna be taking two vehicles. We know the ambulance can fit all the youngins in it, and combined with the truck we's got plenty of room. So pick a vehicle and hop in, if ya don't fit then hop in the other one." Jud instructed as he climbed into his truck.

"Shotgun!" Kaede yelled as she jumped in the passenger seat of Sarah's ambulance.

"I wanna ride in the funny looking one." Diana said with a smile as she looked up at Luna.

"Which funny looking one?" Luna asked as she looked back and forth from the truck to the ambulance.

"The funny one that looks like a big box on wheels." Diana answered with a smile.

"That's called an ambulance Diana." Artemis explained with a smile.

"Cool. Have you ever been in one daddy?" Diana asked with a smile.

"Unfortunately yes, more times than I remember." Artemis answered with a sigh.

"It was maybe twice!" Minako shouted with a grin.

"Well that's still two times too many, I wish you were more careful Mina!" Artemis yelled as he jumped into the ambulance, then jumped onto Minako's lap.

"Well I wish less things wanted us dead." Minako replied with a grin.

"Us to." Luna quietly said as she picked Diana up and jumped in the ambulance.

"Ya drive safe Sarah, we'll see ya there!" Jud yelled as he started driving away.

"Buckle up everyone." Sarah instructed as she started her ambulance.

"We are." Everyone answered with smiles.

"Alrighty then. Let's get ta the steak place." Sarah said with a smile as she started driving.

"What's this place called anyways?" Minako asked with a small smile.

"The sizzling cow shack." Sarah answered with a smile.

"That's a funny name." Chibiusa said with a smile as she stared out the window.

"I know, I love the name they chose." Sarah replied with a giggle.

"So what's all on the menu?" Kaede asked with a smile as she looked over at Sarah.

"Lotsa meat. But they's also got other thangs fer folks who don't much like all that stuff. There's also some Hispanic food available." Sarah answered with a smile.

"What kinds of Hispanic food is there?" Ami asked with a smile.

"They's got chips, salsa, nachos, burritos, guacamole, and a bunch of other thangs. Y'all are gonna love it." Sarah answered with a smile.

"Oh I can't wait!" Mako yelled with excitement.

"Well it's a good thang we're here then." Sarah informed as she pulled into the parking lot.

"WOO! Show me the meat!" Mako yelled as Sarah parked the ambulance.

"Be careful what ya ask fer round here Mako, some folks like ta drink a bit too much." Sarah said with a chuckle as she tuned the ambulance off and got out.

"What's that have to do with wanting to see meat?" Mako asked with a confused expression.

"Depends how drunk the guy is who hears ya say that." Sarah answered with a grin.

"Ewe." Mako quietly said with a disgusted look.

"I don't get it." Minako said with a confused expression.

"You don't wanna." Ami replied with a blush.

"There y'all are, we's already got a table and everythang." Jud informed as he walked out of the restaurant.

"How'd ya get here so much faster than us?" Sarah asked with a smile as she and everyone else followed her dad into the restaurant.

"That's easy, I'm a hypocrite who speeds even though I tell ya not ta." Jud answered with a chuckle as he lead everyone to the table.

"Well howdy there folks! Welcome ta the sizzling cow shack!" A woman yelled with enthusiasm as she walked over to the table.

"Howdy ma'am." Jud said with a smile as he took his hat off and set it behind him.

"My name's Patty and I'ma be yer waitress today, can I get y'all some water whilst ya look over the menu?" The waitress asked with a smile.

"Please." Saeko answered with a smile.

"Alrighty then, I'll be right back with yer waters." Patty replied as she walked away.

"I know what I'm getting." Mako said with a smile.

"Already? That was fast sis." Kaede replied with a chuckle as she looked through the menu.

"What can I say, I was thinking about it most of the way here." Mako chuckled as she set her menu down.

"What are you getting Mako?" Ami asked as she continued looking through the menu.

"I'm gonna get a ten ounce ribeye." Mako answered as she pushed her menu towards the edge of the table.

"That's all? Nah, a gal as big and tough as you needs a real meal!" Jud yelled with a grin.

"Jud. Show some manners, just because she's a tall gal don't mean she eats that much." Emily scolded as she lightly slapped Jud on the shoulder.

"Pa's got a point ma, Mako can eat. I just think she's worried 'bout ringing up a big bill." Sarah informed with a smile as she looked at Mako, who lightly blushed.

"Is that true darling?" Emily asked as she stared at Mako.

"Yes ma'am, I kind of conditioned myself to watch my spending." Mako quietly answered with a small frown.

"Well don't ya worry 'bout the cost sweetie, ya just enjoy yerself and let the adults worry 'bout prices." Emily said with a smile.

"What's a gal yer age worrying 'bout prices so much fer? That's normally the parents job, yer job's ta worry 'bout getting good grades." Jud asked with a straight face.

"Speaking of yer parents, ya ain't called 'em once since y'all got here. How come?" Emily asked with a small frown.

"Ma. Let it go and leave her alone." Sarah quietly instructed with a small frown.

"We's just wondering 'bout her family as all." Jud replied with a small smile. "So why ain't ya called 'em since ya got here Mako?" Jud asked as he stared at Mako.

"Because I don't have any. They died." Mako quietly answered as she looked down at the table.

"What? Oh sweetie, we're so sorry that we brought it up, we had no idea." Emily quietly apologized as she stared at Mako.

"It's okay, and if I'm being honest I still have a mom, two to be precise. They may not be my birth parents, but they love me like they are." Mako quietly said as she looked at Saeko.

"We always will Mako." Saeko quietly said as she put her hand over Mako's.

"Why don't we change the subject and get the mood up." Kaede suggested as she closed her menu.

"What are we gonna talk about?" Ami asked as she also closed her menu.

"Why don't we start by telling our waitress what we want to eat." Minako suggested as the waitress walked back over with a large tray of water.

"Here ya go folks, and would any of yas like anythang ta drink other than water?" Patty asked as she started passing out the waters.

"Am I gonna get yelled at for wanting a soda Usagi?" Chibiusa asked as she looked at Usagi with puppy dog eyes.

"I suppose not since it's a special occasion. You'd better sleep tonight though." Usagi answered with a chuckle.

"Yay! Thanks Usagi!" Chibiusa yelled as she turned to the waitress. "Can I please have a grape soda?" Chibiusa asked with a smile.

"You sure can sweetie." Patty replied as she wrote down Chibiusa's order. "What can I get the rest of yas?" Patty asked as she looked up from her notepad.

"I'll have a lemonade please, just a plain one." Usagi answered with a smile.

"I'll take a raspberry lemonade please." Naru informed in a happy tone.

"Cola please." Shingo said as he closed his menu.

"Just water for us." Kenji informed as he set his menu on top of Ikukos.

"A white soda for me and blondie please." Rei said with a smile as she looked at Minako.

"I'll take a chocolate milk please." Mako said as she handed her menu to the waitress.

"I'd like water please." Ami said with a smile.

"I want orange juice please." Kaede said with a smile as she passed her menu to the waitress.

"I'd like apple juice please." Sarah informed as she gave her menu to the waitress.

"I'd like a coffee please." Saeko said with a smile as she handed her menu to the waitress.

"I'd like a beer and a glass of wine fer the misses please." Jud informed as he handed his and Emily's menus to the waitress.

"Could we please just get water in a bowl please?" Luna whispered to Jud.

"Can we add a bowl of water please for our service cats?" Jud asked with a smile as he pet Luna's head.

"Sounds good, I'll go grab that while y'all figure out what yas wanna eat." The waitress said with a smile as she walked away.

"Wow, she's totally unfazed by the three cats sitting in the both." Usagi said with a surprised expression.

"That's not surprising thanks to Mr. Blouse's quick thinking. Service animals are always welcomed in places. So, what's everyone getting to eat?" Saeko asked as she looked around the table.

"Meat." Everyone answered with smiles.

"Really? I never would've guessed that any of you would order meat from a mainly meat restaurant." Saeko replied with a small chuckle.

"I think I'm gonna get a bone in ribeye." Ami specified with a smile.

"Now that gal knows a good cut of meat. High-five!" Jud said with a smile as he high-fived Ami.

"You think Ami knows meat, wait till you hear what sis is gonna get." Kaede said with a smile as she looked at Mako.

"What're ya getting Mako?" Emily asked with a smile.

"I think I'm gonna get the medium prime rib." Mako answered with a big smile.

"Oh, and Mako takes the prize fer best order!" Jud yelled with a laugh.

"Good choice Mako, I'm gonna get a fillet." Rei said as she set her menu down.

"I think I'm gonna get a t-bone." Minako informed as she also set her menu down.

"I'm getting a ribeye as well." Naru said with a smile as she looked over at Usagi.

"I think I'll get a fillet." Usagi said as she closed her menu and looked at Shingo.

"I'm gonna get a bone in ribeye." Shingo informed as he looked at Ami.

"We're meat twins Shingo." Ami chuckled as she looked back at him.

"I just want a little steak." Chibiusa said as she closed her menu.

"The smallest one is the eight ounce fillet." Ikuko informed as she set her menu down.

"Then I'll get that please." Chibiusa said with a smile.

"Good choice Chibiusa, and what're my gals getting?" Jud asked as he looked at Sarah and Kaede.

"Ribeyes." Sarah and Kaede both answered with giggles.

"Good choices. Now what are us adults getting?" Emily wondered out loud as she skimmed over the menu.

"I'm getting a big 'ol prime rib!" Jud answered with a grin.

"I think I'll hop on the prime rib train as well." Kenji said with a smile as he closed his menu.

"I'm gonna get a medium fillet." Saeko said as she set her menu down.

"Same." Ikuko said with a smile.

"Make that three." Emily chuckled as she set her menu down.

"Alright, so we's gonna get five ribeyes, three prime ribs, six fillets, and a t-bone. That sound right?" Jud asked with a smile.

"It sure does pa." Sarah answered as the waitress walked over to the table.

"Here're the drinks fer all of yas, and do y'all know what ya wanna order?" The waitress asked as she passed out everyone's drinks.

"We're gonna try and make this as simple as we can fer ya since there're so many of us." Jud informed with a smile.

"Ready when you are sir." The waitress informed as she put her pen to her notepad.

"Alright, can we please get five ribeyes, three prime ribs, six fillets and a t-bone?" Jud asked with a smile.

"Ya sure can, and how would ya like tham steaks cooked tonight?" The waitress asked as she wrote some notes.

"How do y'all want yer steaks cooked?" Jud asked as he looked at everyone.

"If you want rare raise yer hand." Emily instructed as she raised her hand, Rei, Usagi, and Saeko all raised their hands.

"Alright, so four fillets done rare." The waitress said as she wrote it down.

"Raise yer hand if ya want medium rare." Jud said as he raised his hand, followed by everyone else.

"Does anyone want their steak well done?" Saeko asked as she looked around the table.

"No thank you mom." Ami answered with a smile.

"Alright, so four rare fillets and the rest of the steaks are medium rare right?" The waitress asked as she wrote that on her notepad.

"Yes ma'am." Jud answered with a smile.

"Okay, and lastly do any of yas want any sautéed onions er mushrooms on yer steaks?" The waitress asked with a smile.

"I'd like onions please." Mako said with a smile.

"Me to please." Kaede informed.

"Same please." Sarah added with a smile.

"Both for me please." Kenji said with a smile.

"Same as him please." Jud informed as he nodded at Kenji.

"Anythang fer the rest of yas?" The waitress asked as she wrote the orders down.

"No thank you ma'am." Ami answered with a smile.

"Alright, I'll get tham orders in and bring it all out when it's done." The waitress informed as she walked away.

"She's so kind, we's gonna have ta give her a nice big tip Jud." Emily said with a smile.

"Oh yeah, with a group our size I'd say at least thirty percent." Jud replied with a smile.

"So, any of yas got any plans fer after supper?" Emily asked as she looked around the table.

"Not that we're aware of." Ami answered with a smile.

"That's alright, y'all had a big day today." Emily replied with a smile.

"Any plans fer tomorra?" Jud asked as he took a sip of his beer.

"Not that we've talked about yet." Mako answered with a shrug.

"Well if yas go anywhere be careful, ya done pissed the McClains off today, and they ain't ones ta act rationally after somethang like that." Jud warned in a serious tone.

"We're not ones to back down from people like them, that being said we'll try and stay clear of them sir." Rei replied with a small smile.

"Appreciate it young lady." Jud replied with a smile.

"What if they come looking for trouble?" Minako asked with a small frown.

"Ya do what ya gotta ta keep yerselves safe, but don't you go looking fer any trouble. Rumor has it tham boys are slowly gathering a small army of ultra nationalist lunatics, I've even heard rumors that the FBI's been monitoring their actions fer a few months now." Jud informed with a serious expression.

"It's no rumor." A man said from another table.

"Beg yer pardon." Jud replied as he looked over at the man.

"I don't mean to eaves drop on your conversation, but can I ask you about those McClain brothers?" The man asked as he turned and looked at everyone.

"Hey, I've seen you before." Ami said as she stared at the man.

"On the plane, I remember you ladies." The man replied with a smile.

"Sorry again about bumping into you, I wasn't paying a lot of attention." Ami apologized with a small smile.

"Stop apologizing, it's a sign of weakness." The man instructed with a straight face.

"Sorry." Ami quietly apologized with a small frown.

"Who are ya anyways?" Jud asked as he stared at the man.

"Special agent Gibbs, NCIS." The man answered as he dug a badge out of his pocket and showed it to Jud.

"NCIS? I ain't ever heard of that group before." Jud replied with a confused expression.

"We're a civilian branch of the Navy, it stands for navel criminal investigative services." Gibbs explained as he continued to stare at everyone.

"Sounds fancy. So what do ya wanna know 'bout tham McClain brothers, I mean, what's got ya so interested in tham lowlifes?" Jud asked with a straight face.

"A murder and some other things that I can't discuss." Gibbs answered with a straight face.

"They killed someone else now huh? Tham boys know how ta cover their tracks." Jud replied with a sigh.

"Someone else?" Gibbs asked with a surprised expression.

"Oh yeah, the police can't prove it, but them boys and their group are suspected in close ta half a dozen homicides." Jud explained with a small frown.

"We talked to law enforcement and they never mentioned anything about any other murders. Thanks for that tip, I'll get someone to start digging into that a-sap." Gibbs thanked as he pulled out his phone and hit a few buttons. "Thank you everyone, now I'll let you all enjoy your meal." Gibbs said with a smile as he got up and walked away.

"Well that was odd." Jud quietly said as he looked back at everyone.

"I get the feeling this isn't the last we're gonna be seeing of Mr. Gibbs." Ami quietly said with a small frown.

"I get that feeling as well Ami." Usagi replied with a sigh.

"Cheer up gals, whatever happens I'm sure y'all can handle it. Y've gone up against tougher thangs than the McClains and did just fine." Emily encouraged with a smile.

"She's right, so y'all just try and let it go." Jud said with a smile as the waitress came over with a tray.

"Here ya are folks, a Texas sized meal fit fer a king, or a queen." The waitress said with a smile as she started passing everyone's food out.

"Thank you ma'am." Everyone thanked with smiles as the waitress set their food in front of them.

"Y're welcome, can I get any of yas anythang else?" The waitress asked with a smile.

"No thank ya miss." Jud answered as he took a bite of his steak.

"Alright, well you folks enjoy and holler if any of yas need anythang." The waitress instructed as she walked away. Everyone enjoyed their meals in relative silence for the next hour before anyone said anything again.

"Wow, that was absolutely fantastic. Thank you for suggesting this place to us." Saeko thanked with a smile as she looked at Jud.

"Don't thank me, this was all Sarah's idea." Jud replied as he looked over at Sarah, who smiled proudly.

"Thank you for such a wonderful idea Sarah." Saeko thanked with a smile.

"I'm glad that y'all enjoyed it Mizuno-San." Sarah replied with a smile.

"Can I get any of you folks any dessert tonight?" The waitress asked as she walked back over to the table.

"No thank you ma'am, just the bill please." Jud answered with a smile.

"Alright, and is this all on one bill or separate?" The waitress asked with a smile as she started clearing the table.

"One bill please." Jud answered as he pulled his wallet out.

"Sure thang, I'll be right back with the bill then." The waitress replied as she walked away again. After a few minutes she returned with the bill and placed it on the table. "That's there fer whenever y'all are ready." The waitress said as she walked away again.

"Let's see the damage. Oh, my heart!" Jud yelled as he looked at the bill.

"Oh no, we gave Mr. Blouse a heart attack!" Chibisua yelled as she stared at Jud.

"I'm just playing with ya young lady, ya ain't gotta worry 'bout me. Sorry I scared ya youngin." Jud chuckled as he looked over the bill.

"Don't worry Mr. Blouse, we'll split it between everyone." Kenji informed with a smile.

"Ya ain't gotta do that, we invited you out." Jud replied as he pulled some cash out of his wallet.

"It would make us happy if you'd let us help pay." Saeko informed with a smile.

"Y'all are real nice folks. But I warn ya, it ain't a pertty picture." Jud informed as he set the bill on the table.

"Four-hundred and fifty dollars! Wow, we really went all out tonight." Kenji said with a smile as he pulled his wallet out.

"Well you know what they say, everything's bigger in Texas, that means the bills to." Saeko chuckled as she grabbed her purse. "Alright, so if we divide four hundred and fifty by three that's one-hundred and fifty each." Saeko informed with a smile.

"Don't forget the tip mom." Ami informed with a smile.

"Oh yeah, can't forget that. She was very nice to us. What percentage should we do?" Saeko asked as she looked at Jud.

"Thirty percent at least." Jud answered with a smile.

"That would be one-hundred and fifty times thirty percent which gives us forty-five dollars. Then if we add that to the original amount we'd each owe one-hundred and ninety-five dollars." Saeko informed with a smile. Everyone just stared at her with looks of astonishment. "What? You think Ami's the only one who can do math like that in her head, I'm the original Mizuno." Saeko chuckled as she pulled some money out of her purse.

"You go mom." Ami said with a smile as she held her hand up to her mom.

"Oh yeah." Saeko replied as she high-fived Ami.

"Well y'all heard the lady, let's pay up." Emily said with a smile as she and everyone else threw some money on the table.

"Are ya folks all set here?" The waitress asked as she came back to the table.

"Yes ma'am. This stack is fer the bill and the rest is yers, thank ya so much fer everythang ya did fer us tonight ma'am." Jud thanked with a smile as he handed a pile of cash to the waitress, then pushed a second pile closer to her.

"Thank ya so much, y'all were the nicest customers I had all night." The waitress thanked with a smile as she grabbed the money and walked away.

"Alright, let's get home folks." Jud said with a smile as everyone started getting up.

"Thank you for dinner everyone." Ami thanked with a smile.

"Yes, thank you everyone." Mako thanked as well.

"Thank you for dinner!" Everyone else thanked together.

"Y'all are very welcome, now lets get home." Emily replied with a smile.

"Thank you for letting us nibble off of all of your plates, it was much easier than trying to order a meal for each of us." Luna thanked with a smile as she hopped out of the booth.

"You're welcome Luna." Usagi replied with a smile.

"So who had the best one Luna?" Naru asked with a smile.

"The prime ribs were my personal favorite." Artemis answered with a smile.

"I liked the ribeyes the best." Luna answered as she stretched a little.

"I liked the meat." Diana said with a giggle.

"Who doesn't." Sarah said with a grin as she lead everyone outside.

"Meat's the best." Kaede replied as she walked with Sarah to her ambulance.

"Can you unlock it please Sarah?" Ami asked as she started heading towards the back of it.

"Sure thang." Sarah answered as she pulled her keys out and unlocked her door.

"Um, Sarah." Ami quietly said as she walked behind the ambulance.

"Yeah Ami?" Sarah asked as she opened the driver's door.

"You need to see this." Ami quietly said as she stared at the back of Sarah's ambulance.

"See what?" Sarah asked as she walked over by Ami and looked at the back of her ambulance. "OH! MY! GOD!" Sarah shouted as she stared at her ambulance.

"What is it Sarah?" Jud asked as he rushed over to Sarah.

"That!" Sharah yelled with tears in her eyes. Jud looked at the back of Sarah's vehicle and couldn't believe what he was seeing.

"Who the hell would do this?" Jud asked as he continued to stare at the ambulance. Someone had keyed an entire sentence into the back of Sarah's ambulance.

"What is it Jud?" Emily asked as she walked over by Jud.

"Tham bastards carved death ta the fags in the back of our daughters car. I'ma kill 'em fer this Emily, tham boys is gonna rue the day they were born." Jud snapped as he walked back towards the restaurant.

"Where're ya going?!" Emily yelled as she stared at Jud.

"Ta tell a man who might be able ta do something 'bout this!" Jud answered as he disappeared through the doors.

"Why? Why do they hate me so much? I can't help it if I like girls, it's just who I am." Sarah quietly cried as she sank down to the ground.

"It's not you Sarah, there's nothing wrong with you. Those McClain brothers are just monsters, filthy animals that need to be put down." Ami quietly said as she stared at the words carved into the ambulance.

"I agree. We need to stop this before it escalates into something more violent." Usagi quietly said as she looked down at Sarah.

"How?" Sarah asked as she looked up at Usagi.

"By letting this man do his job." Jud answered as he walked back out with Gibbs.

"Mr. Gibbs." Sarah quietly said with a sniffle.

"It's gonna be okay, we're gonna get them for this." Gibbs informed as he pulled out his phone. "McGee, I need you all to come to the sizzling cow shack, and bring Abby." Gibbs instructed as he hung up the phone. "I'm gonna get your statement and then you're all free to go, but you'll have to leave the vehicle here." Gibbs informed as he pulled out a pen and notepad.

"W-We don't have enough room in the truck." Sarah said with a sniffle.

"How far do you live?" Gibbs asked with a straight face.

"'Bout ten miles from here." Jud answered as he hugged Sarah.

"I'll have someone give you a ride back in our M.E's van." Gibbs replied as he walked over to his car and grabbed a camera from it.

"Thank ya sir." Jud thanked as he walked Sarah over to a bench and sat her down.

"Why would they do this ta me pa? I ain't never done nothing ta tham! I can't help it if I'm gay, that's just who I am!" Sarah cried as she buried her face in Jud's chest.

"It ain't nothing ya did ta them er anyone else darling, they's just bad people who find joy in causing others pain. Y've done nothing wrong Sarah." Jud quietly replied as he hugged Sarah.

"Then why does it feel like I have?" Sarah quietly asked with a sniffle.

"Because you're being punished for things you can't control." Ami quietly answered as she sat down by Sarah.

"What do ya mean?" Sarah asked with a few tears.

"They're punishing you for being different Sarah, that's why they did this. They did it to try and teach you a lesson or make a point." Ami quietly answered with a small frown.

"What makes ya think that? They probably did it just because they's assholes." Jud replied with a straight face.

"No. It's a punishment. They see what we are as being wrongful, a bad life choice. So they punished you for doing what they believe is wrong." Ami quietly explained as she stared at the ground.

"How can ya be so sure that's how they think?" Jud asked with a frown as he stared at Ami.

"Because I've been on the receiving end of that punishment, and I wish all I'd gotten was a rude message. Instead I was almost beaten to death! That damn monster, he possessed my friend and my father! He made them attack me, one of my closest friends nearly beat me to death in a dark dirty ally! He made my own father call me a freak!" Ami shouted as she clenched her fists in anger.

"Ami." Sarah quietly said as she stared at Ami.

"I'm sorry, this isn't about me. Those memories just come back sometimes. The point is that it's not your fault and that you've done nothing wrong. It's them and them alone. You have nothing to be ashamed of Sarah, you are who you are and if they don't like it they can go to hell." Ami said with a small smile.

"I'd be happy ta punch their tickets." Jud chimed in with a grin.

"You and a lot of other people I'm sure." Gibbs said as he walked over by Jud.

"Howdy. There anythang we can help yas with Mr. Gibbs?" Jud asked with a smile.

"Nope, I just wanted to let you know that you'll be out of here soon. Our M.E's only about ten minutes out." Gibbs answered as he sat down by Sarah.

"I hope ya find tham and bury tham fer this." Jud quietly said with a straight face.

"I wish I could, but unfortunately I have rules I need to follow." Gibbs replied as he looked over at Sarah.

"I'ma kill those boys next time I see 'em." Jud said with an angry expression.

"I wouldn't blame you, but I'd still have to arrest you." Gibbs replied as he looked at Jud.

"It'd be worth it." Jud quietly said as he looked at Sarah.

"It wouldn't help, you're better off just being there for your daughter instead of being arrested for seeking revenge for her." Gibbs replied with a sigh.

"Do you have a child Mr. Gibbs, because unless you do then you have no idea how I feel." Jud quietly grumbled.

"I know exactly how you feel, and I can tell you from experience that revenge won't help. It only dulls the pain for a short time, but it never makes it go away." Gibbs replied as an odd looking ambulance pulled up. "Your ride's here." Gibbs quietly said as he stood up and walked over to the ambulance.

"Ah, Jethro, another exiting evening I see." A slightly older man said in a British accent as he got out of the ambulance.

"Not what you're use to Duck, but it's still an ugly one. You bring Abs?" Gibbs asked as he walked over by the man.

"I certainly did, but you never said what this was about?" The man replied as he followed Gibbs over by everyone else.

"I'll tell you later, but for now I wanna introduce you to some people." Gibbs informed as he lead the man over by Sarah. "Duck, this is Jud Blouse and his daughter Sarah." Gibbs introduced with a smile.

"Hello there, my name is doctor Donald Mallard, but you can call me Ducky." Ducky introduced himself as he held his hand out to Jud. He was a slightly older man just past middle age, he had light brown hair and a pair of oval glasses; he was also wearing a black suit with a blue shirt and a red bow tie.

"Pleasure ta meet ya." Jud replied as he and Sarah shook Ducky's hand.

"So, what seems to be the issue around here?" Ducky asked as he looked around.

"The two biggest assholes in our town carved a real nasty message inta my daughter's ride." Jud answered with an angry expression.

"I see. What a horrible thing to write, especially directed at such a sweet looking girl." Ducky replied as he looked at the ambulance, then at Sarah.

"I'd like you to talk to them about these McClain brothers, the primary suspects in this. Then put together a psychological profile on both of them please." Gibbs instructed as he looked at Ducky.

"The same suspects in our other investigation. Quite the coincidence." Ducky replied as he looked back at Gibbs.

"No such thing Duck." Gibbs replied as he walked away.

"Of course. So, when you're ready I'd like you to tell me all about these McClain boys." Ducky instructed as he pulled out a pen and notepad.

"I don't know much 'bout 'em, they's maybe in their late twenties ta early thirties. They're well known fer their rude behavior and beliefs. The most basic way I can put it is that they's nationalist and traditionalists, if it don't fit in with the old ways then they ain't a fan, and they have no issue voicing their opinions." Jud explained with a straight face.

"Interesting. You don't know anything about their past do you?" Ducky asked as he wrote some notes down.

"No, that's 'bout all I know other than the fact that they's a bunch of animals." Jud replied with a frown.

"That's okay, every little bit helps. Thank you for your time." Ducky said with a smile as he put his notepad away. "Oh, I almost forgot. You need a ride home. Please, follow me." Ducky said with a smile as he lead Sarah and everyone else over to his vehicle. "Hop in and get settled, I have to talk to Gibbs real quick, but I'll be back in a moment." Ducky informed as he gestured to the vehicle he'd came in.

"Thank ya sir." Jud thanked as he helped Sarah into the vehicle.

"How are you doing Sarah?" Kaede asked as she climbed in behind Jud.

"Okay, I'm just really hurt." Sarah answered with a sniffle.

"I don't blame you, but it's gonna be okay. They're gonna pay Sarah, they can't get away with this." Kaede quietly said as she hugged Sarah.

"I know. Thank ya Kaede." Sarah quietly replied as she hugged Kaede back.

"Shall we get you all home?" Ducky asked as he walked back over by them.

"Please." Jud replied as he put his arm around Sarah.

"Don't forget everyone else." Sarah quietly said with a small smile.

"Wouldn't dream of it." Jud replied as he got up and jumped out of the vehicle. "Time to go everyone!" Jud yelled towards everyone else.

"Coming!" Usagi shouted as she ran towards Jud, bumping into someone as she did. "Sorry." Usagi apologized as she looked at the person she'd bumped into. She was a tall young woman with black hair, and she was wearing a black skirt and t-shirt with a skull on it.

"No worries, I love your hair by the way." The person replied as they stared at Usagi. "You look familiar." The woman said as she stared at Usagi.

"Really? I don't think we've ever met." Usagi replied with a confused expression.

"This might sound crazy, but you look like a superhero from Japan." The woman said with a smile as she looked Usagi up and down.

"That is crazy, but I'm too boring to be a superhero." Usagi replied with a light chuckle.

"Your hair sure isn't, I love the buns in it." The woman said with a smile as she stared at Usagi's hair.

"Thank you, I like your boots." Usagi replied as she stared down at the woman's boots.

"I should introduce myself, my name's Abby, I'm a forensic scientist." The woman introduced herself as she held her hand out to Usagi.

"I'm Usagi, I'm a high schooler." Usagi said with a chuckle as she shook Abby's hand.

"It's nice to meet you Usagi, I'd stay and chat but I need to get to work." Abby said with a smile as she turned to look at Gibbs, who was getting impatient.

"I understand. It was nice to meet you Abby." Usagi replied as she turned to leave.

"Nice to meet you to Usagi." Abby said as she walked over by Gibbs.

"About time Usagi." Rei grumbled as Usagi got in the back of Ducky's vehicle.

"Sorry, I bumped into a really cool girl and got sidetracked talking to her." Usagi apologized with a smile.

"Our forensic scientist, Ms. Abigail. She's a fun one for sure." Ducky chuckled as he started driving away. "So where do you live?" Ducky asked as he looked in the mirror at Sarah.

"1845 cow pie road." Sarah quietly answered.

"I'll have you home in no time ladies." Ducky said with a smile as he continued driving.

"Thank you." Mako thanked as she stared at Sarah. "You feeling any better Sarah?" Mako asked with a small frown. Sarah just shook her head no. "It'll be okay Sarah." Mako quietly said as she put her hand over Sarah's.

"Yeah, they'll get what's coming to them for sure now." Minako said with a smile as she looked at Rei, who nodded in agreement.

"If they don't?" Sarah asked with a sniffle.

"They will Sarah, one way or another they're gonna pay." Usagi quietly replied as she put her hand on Sarah's shoulder.

"How do ya know that Usagi? People get away with injustice all the time?" Sarah asked with a few tears.

"No one ever gets away with injustice Sarah, one way or another everyone pays for the things they do. Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, maybe not even ten years from now. But make no mistake, they will pay for their actions one day." Usagi quietly explained with a small smile.

"Wise old words from such a youthful mouth." Ducky said with a smile as he pulled up to Sarah's house. "I wish you all the best of luck, and have faith, those boys are gonna pay for their actions." Ducky said with a smile as he put the vehicle in park.

"Thank you for the ride sir." Ami thanked as she opened the back and got out, followed by everyone else.

"It was my pleasure, now you all get some rest." Ducky replied as he watched everyone start to walk towards the house.

"Goodnight sir." Jud quietly said as he held his hand out to Ducky.

"Goodnight to you as well." Ducky replied as he shook Jud's hand, then started driving away.

"I'm going to bed." Sarah quietly said as she walked in the door and lumbered towards the steps.

"Us to." Usagi replied as she and everyone else followed Sarah up the steps. Everyone entered Sarah's room and got their pajamas on in silence, then went to bed just as quietly.

"Poor Sarah, I feel so bad for her." Luna quietly said as she stared up the steps.

"Us to Luna, but all we can do now is hope that Mr. Gibbs and his team can put a stop to those McClain brothers." Saeko quietly replied with a small frown.

"I think we should all get ta bed and try ta ferget this whole mess." Jud suggested as he looked over at Emily.

"Agreed. Goodnight everyone." Saeko quietly said as she walked towards the guest room, followed by everyone else.

"Goodnight." Everyone else quietly replied as they all went to bed.

"We're sorry you had to go through that tonight Sarah, I know how much it hurts to be hated just for being yourself." Ami quietly said as her and Mako laid down together.

"I'm sorry you know how this feels Ami, but at least it can't get any worse from here." Sarah quietly replied as she crawled into bed and turned her back to everyone.

"You just said the forbidden five words Sarah." Usagi quietly said as she pulled a blanket over her and Naru.

"What do you mean?" Sarah asked in a confused tone as she rolled over and looked at Usagi.

"From our experience Sarah, it can always get worse." Rei quietly said as she closed her eyes.

"How could this get any worse, they carved a death threat into the side of my vehicle?" Sarah grumbled as she closed her eyes.

"They could act on their threat." Ami quietly said as she closed her eyes and cuddled closer to Mako.