Be warned: a very, very out of character Heero Yuy, major, MAGOR
Relena bashing, and lots of mushy stuff. This chapter is dedicated to ZPAN
SVEN, because I know your going to like the showdown between Relena and
Usagi. Yes, it all happens in this chapter.
Men with Guns
Chapter 10 - Going Home.
Duo grinned as he skipped down the stairs. It was just shy of 4:30 and for once he was going to be early for training. He couldn't wait to see the look on Usagi's face when she saw him up without her 'help'. But it was Duo that was in for a surprise. Throwing open the doors with a cheery whistle the braided boy stopped short. Usagi was nowhere in sight. Slightly confused but not giving it much thought the boy gave a shrug and sat down under a tree, closing his eyes and relaxing his body as he prepared to wait for his trainer.
~*~*~*~
Usagi yawned and stretched luxuriously, her mind still slightly fogged from sleep. Lazily her midnight eyes opened against the bright morning sun. Beside her Heero slept on, the sun hitting his chocolate locks and giving them a golden highlight. His bangs fell into his eyes, even in sleep slightly shading his closed lids. Twisting her body so that she could see his face she gave a soft smile and ran her fingers loosely through his bangs. Heero stirred and pulled her closer. Usagi giggle slightly causing Heero to fully open his eyes.
"Morning." She whispered, her voice still soft with sleep. Heero groaned and pulled her closer still, snuggling his face into the crook of her neck.
"Go back to sleep, Usa." He mumbled. "It's too early." Usagi laughed softly, enjoying the feeling of his arms wrapped around her waist and the heat of his body pressed so close to hers. Over the time that she had been in this dimension she'd never seen Heero act like this. He'd always worn his emotionless mask to protect himself from the complications of emotions, too used to living without them to want or try to adjust to having them as a part of his life. She was proud of how far he'd progressed, even though she had the feeling that he would still act like the Perfect Soldier, at least a little.
Sighing in contentment the silver haired girl curled closer to the boy next to her, her thoughts on the Heero wandering to the ever calm presence of the moon humming gently in the back of her mind. At night the vibration was stronger, it's energy clean and clear as it beat down upone the earth. But even during the day Usagi could feel the power of her home like the soft purring of a kitten in her mind. She sighed again as she thought about how much she missed her friends, and her mother. Oh, how she missed her mothers warm smiles, wise words and gentle encouragement.
A single tear slipped from her eye at the memories of the Moon Kingdom. Heero stirred in his sleep as the hot salty drop spilled on to his chest. His lips parted softly and he gently mumbled her name. Her tears stopped and she smiled. As much as she missed her past, she wouldn't trade her present life to go back for anything in the world.
Finally eased of her ramped thoughts Usagi once again drifted to sleep. But just as the black oblivion of the subconscious claimed her a weird feeling passed over her, like she was forgetting something but not. Not really bothering to pat attention to the feeling Usagi shrugged it off and joined Heero in sleep.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
"Has any one seen Duo around?" Quatra asked the other guys as they all sat down for brunch.
"Not me." Usagi commented as she took a huge mouthful of cereal. For once she was eating with the rest of them.
What about your training, onna?" Wufei asked, curious at the warrior woman's change in routine.
"Oh, well, there's nothing much more I can teach him. He knows all the basics of both energy manipulation and fighting. Any attacks he wants to use he must create himself, and develop his own style of attacks," Explained Usagi.
"So what are you going to do now?" Quatra asked. Usagi shrugged and continued eating.
"Actually I'm working on a way home. I miss my family and its way passed time I headed back." The whole kitchen when silent at the proclamation. All of them had grown to close to the girl and liked her a lot; they didn't want her to leave.
"You're. going?" Quatra question softly, as if he didn't quite believe what he was hearing. The silver haired girl paused in her eating and gave them a heart-warming smile.
"Yeah. It's time for me to go home." The way she said it made them all a little sad. It was almost profound; as if Usagi was accepting a fate she couldn't fight.
Do you know when?" Trowa spoke for the first time. Usagi shrugged and looked down, fiddling with the food on her plate.
"Soon. Very soon." The others all looked down at their feet. They didn't want her to go. Heero saw the sorrowful look on her face and placed his hand over the top of her own, silently willing her strength. Usagi smiled gratefully at him and laced their fingers together.
"We'll miss you." Quatra quietly stated, coming around the table to embrace his friend. The girl smiled and hugged him back (being careful not to crush him, of course), happy that they understood.
"Don't worry. My mother always said; as long as you keep a person in your heart you'll always be together in spirit, no matter how far apart you might be physically."
"Very wise words, Onna." Wufei said, as he too came over to hug Usagi.
"We owe you a great deal." Trowa said, lightly kissing her cheek.
"And now that we've met you we'll be with you in spirit always." Heero finished. Usagi smiled brilliantly at them all, a single tear of joy slipping down her cheek which she scowled at and wiped away. The others laughed.
"Hey," Wufei suddenly realized. "Where's Duo? Normally he would be ruining a moment like this." Everyone looked around, perplexed.
A loud yell from outside brought everyone's head up. Quickly throwing a glance towards the others Usagi took of outside, her saiya-jin heritage making her faster than the others. But when the boys finally caught up with her they were greeted with a sight they were never expecting. A lobster red Duo burnt crispy from sleeping in the sun was doing what looked like a rain dance as he tried to ease the pain of his sunburn. And Usagi was watching him from where she was laughing her arse off on the ground. Wufei promptly doubled over holding his stomach in laughter. Quatra and Trowa burst out laughing, using each other for support. Heero rushed to get his camera, seeing the perfect opportunity for as going away postcard.
"It's not funny!!" Duo screeched as the flash from Heero's camera caught his eye. The others just laughed harder.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
"So I guess this is goodbye." Duo stated. Everyone had gathered on Quatra's back lawn to say goodbye to Usagi and Heero. Dr J and Dr M had left late the afternoon before claiming they had to continue with their research. The others were curious when Dr M had drawn Usagi aside to talk quietly with her. Their words were much too soft to hear and their faces were both unreadable, so they were left in the dark as to what the two women said.
"Just how are you getting back anyway?" Hilde asked.
Usagi smirked. "I. was able to get in touch with an old friend and call in a favour." The others gave her an odd look that plainly told her that they didn't believe her, but the silver-haired girl said no more.
"You know we'll miss you, right Usagi-chan?" Quatra asked as he stepped forward and hugged her good-bye.
"Yes. Getting to know you was defiantly. interesting." Trowa commented as he, too, moved to embrace her. Usagi tried to look indignant but she couldn't help but laugh at the normally silent mans remark.
"Yeah, babe. Thanks for everything." Due grinned as he gave Usagi a big bear hug. Usagi grinned too and playfully punched him on the arm. Usagi remembered the first time she'd done that; Duo had fallen over and accidentally hit his head on the wall and passed out.
"You just concentrate on your training, Duo. You put a lot of hard work into it and I'm proud of you." Duo gave a blush under the comment and gave his mentor a goofy grin.
Everyone eyed Wufei as he stepped forward. Most were expecting a comment on how he was glad to be rid of the weak onna, especially since now his katana was safely returned with no chances of it. ahm. going missing. But instead the Chinese boy stared at her for a second, before surprising everyone and bowing respectfully.
"May Nataku watch over you, Onna." Was all he said. Usagi smiled and nodded her head to return the bow. The two shook hands and Wufei returned her smile before stepping back again.
Katherine and Hilde both rushed froward and hugged her, both teary eyed. They told Usagi they'd miss her and their shopping sprees and girly chats. The silver haired girl reassured them that she would never forget them, or anyone, and that she was sure one of the boys would gladly take her place. Trowa paled and Duo, Quatra and Wufei backed up a pace. The girls had a good laugh at their expense and parted with smiled all round.
"Well, we'd better be going. Thank you, for taking care of me. It really is appreciated." The others and Heero shook hands, before the unruly haired boy took his place by Usagi's side. "You ready to go?" She asked him.
"Heero smiled and took her hand in his. "As long as you explain to your father who I am before he kills me." Usagi laughed at that one.
Don't worry. After all the drams we went through getting together there's no way I'm going to let you get away so easily!" Heero chuckled, and the others had to admit they liked the sound. In all the years that they'd known him not one of them ever remembered hearing him laugh.
"Hey, don't be strangers, you two!" Duo said. "Maybe that friend of yours will let you come back for a visit." He gave Usagi a wink.
"I'll see what I can do." The silver-haired girl chuckled. Suddenly one of the servants came rushing up. He skidded to a stop, panting for breath and struggling to draw air into his lungs.
"M-Master Quatra!" He struggled to get out. His eyes were wide with panic and he looked like he was ready to pass out right there on the grass. "It's. it's." But before he could finish a blood-curdling screech was heard.
"HHHeeeeeerrrrrrooooo!!!" The others snapped their heads towards the mansion and their eyes widened as they saw Relena pelting across the lawn. Before they could do anything the girl had latched herself firmly to Heero's arm and was rubbing her cheek against the sleeve of his shirt. Heero shot Usagi a look which she clearly understood, before trying unsuccessfully to pry Relena off of him.
"Oh, Heero!! I haven't seen you in ages! How are you? How about dinner tonight? And a movie, Too! There's this really cool movie screening at the moment about this woman who loses her memory and her neglectful husband has to win back her love before a hansom social worker steals her heart! Oh, it's so romantic! Let's go see it!"
Usagi watched the scene before her in interest as she tilted her head to the side. She wanted to make this good so *shudder* QUEEN Relena would get the message once and far all. An Almost unholy glint came into her eyes as an idea came to her. This would be more fun than Duo's first day of training!
Saddling up to the blonde, braided harpy the demi-saiyajin casually tapped her on the shoulder with enough force to break her out of her ramblings. Relena paused mid-sentence and gave Usagi a distasteful glance.
"Oh! It's you." She sniffed as if she was looking at something nasty the dog did. Usagi restrained herself from straight out punching the pacifist twit. She'd learned from their earlier run ins that the only way to get rid of this girl - if you could classify her as human - was not through physical violence; even though punching her stupid would bring great satisfaction. This required tact.
"Hello, Miss Relena." She began politely, her voice soft and pleasant, like the kind of voice you would use to calm a child after a nightmare. "It's a pleasure to see you again. Too bad it will be our last meeting." Her voice was dripping in sorrow. And just like she had planned Relena's interest was caught by the implication of her parting.
"Did you say 'last'?"
Usagi gave a sigh, her dark midnight eyes catching Relena's cornflower blue eyes. "Yes, I'm afraid so. You came right in the middle of our farewells. It's time I get back to my family." Relena's death grip on Heero's arm slackened a bit as she turned her attention towards the journeying silver haired girl.
"You mean. You're leaving?!" He voice was carefully controlled, but still it was tinged with euphoria. That irrational female side of her didn't know why she should consider Usagi as competition for Heero's affection; the blonde girl had never shown any interest towards Heero other than a friendly exchange of conversation. Perhaps it was because they had common interests that brought them just a little bit closer. But whatever it was Relena felt threatened by it, and it imposed on her plans to woo Heero. And that was something she wasn't willing to let happen.
"Yes, today actually. Like I said my family is waiting for us," That unholy glint came back to her eyes and her hand came to sit on her stomach like an expecting mother. "And won't dad be surprised when he finds out little surprise." An adoring, contented smile graced her lips and everyone started at her insinuations. Heero's eyes widened as he heard her words. He knew he and Usagi had gone no further than kissing, but one day he did hope to have children and settle down. The thought of Usagi pregnant, with his child no less, threatened to ignite a fiery crimson blush and started him off on a ramped train of thoughts.
Relena herself paled to a sickly white and her eyes widened to dominate her face. Her grip on Heero dropped and the prussian eyes boy quickly stepped out of reach while he could. Relena didn't notice this, her attention riveted on Usagi. She didn't take into account the blondes' young age, or that she had only recently entered Heero's life, or that Heero himself was cold and cautious around new people and it would have been a while till he opened up to anyone, not to mention Heero was still haunted by his sordid past and wouldn't want to drag anyone into that kind of life; she was too shocked by Usagi's words.
"You're." Relena couldn't bring herself to say the word as if pronouncing it would remove all doubts it could be true. The rest of the group watched in fascination, catching the barely hidden glint of mischief in her dark eyes. Heero had to admit, after the initial shock of his lovers words the show between Relena and his Usa-chan was quite entertaining. Definitely a sight to see.
Usagi let out a girlish giggle that belied what Relena knew as a tough don't-mess-with-me woman of the world personality. "Ah huh. I'm so lucky that Heero has so much honour to come with me. I'm afraid my father wouldn't be too happy if I returned alone after he found our what had happened." Heero had to smirk. So far Usagi hadn't directly said she was pregnant, and although her words were true to the situation Relena was giving them a whole new meaning by thinking she was.
"Heero?!" She squeaked out through her painfully constricted throat. Her face was the colour of Clag Glue, and her blue eyes were so wide the others were afraid they'd just 'pop' out of their sockets. Her jaw was hanging loose somewhere around her knee's and Usagi was feverantly wishing she had a camera on her.
"Yep. Although I hate to make Heero leave everything he's worked so hard for. But this was his decision, and I'm thankful that it was this one. I'll miss the guys, of course. But I long for home, and my family." She glanced quickly at her left wrist where her watch/communicator sat. "And it's time for us to leave, we really are running late." She smiled gently, innocently, and held out her hand to Heero. Relena gapped as the prussian eyed boy walked over to Usagi and took her hand, his free arm wrapping around her waist. Usagi smiled and leaned up, Heero's own head coning down till their lips met in a chaste kiss. Relena watched in pole-axed horror before giving a final squeak and fainting dead away.
Usagi and Heero gazed into each other's eyes for a few passion dazed minutes before they both turned to the others, who were applauding at the performance. Usagi burst out laughing and gave a bow. Heero only smirked, inwardly jumping for joy.
"You have no idea how satisfying that was." Usagi smirked.
"It was just as fun to watch." Duo laughed. It took a good few minutes before the group could get a hold of themselves and contain their laughter. And it was only because the air stilled, silence reigned, and a swirling abyss of darkness opened behind them. They sombred quickly as they realised that this was truly goodbye for their friends. Another quick round of hugs and handshakes went round and Usagi and Heero stepped up to the portal.
Usagi's hand reached out for Heero's and their fingers twinned. The silver haired girl gave it a reassuring squeeze and smiled at him. Heero gave the barest of smiles back and with a final wave to their friends they stepped through the portal. The others watched in sorrow as the two disappeared, and the portal closed behind them.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Heero blinked as his vision went from black to lush green as he found himself standing in the middle of a forest full of trees. He didn't know what he was expecting, but this certainly surprised him. Heero looked down at his lover to see her smiling in delight. He watched her close her eyes and take a deep breath, remembering how much she lover this forest. Looking up at Heero and locking eyes with him she laughed joyfully and began to pull him towards her home where she knew her family was. Heero had to laugh as well, her joy contagious.
Her senses had already located their energy signatures and each member of her family hummed softly in the back of her mind. It only took 5 minutes to reach the Capsule Corporation grounds. The very sight of it caused Usagi's heart to beat faster in excitement. Throwing a glance at Heero, the unruly haired man simply smiled to show her he didn't mind her running on ahead. After all, this was her family they were talking about. Usagi smiled brilliantly and quickly pulled Heero's head to down till their lips met in a brief yet passionate kiss. Heero watched, still a little dazed, as Usagi took off running towards the cluster of white domed shaped buildings that were Capsule Corporation.
The first person Usagi met was Bra, who she ran into, quite literally, as she rounded a corner. Both girls sat there as they waited for the little stars circling around their heads to disappear. When they did Bra found herself blinking repeatedly and wondering is she' hit her head way too hard in order to see the vision before her.
"U-Usa-gi?" She stuttered. The apparition before her smiled so wide it nearly split her face and lunged forward to embrace her in a tight hug.
"Bra!!" Usagi cried out, unbidden tears filling her beautiful eyes.
"Usagi!!" It seemed an eternity passed as the two sisters clung to each other and cried. They were making such a commotion that Trunks' saiyajin ears couldn't help bet hear, brining the lavender-haired boy to the scene, sword drawn and power levels already building. Usagi was the first to see him, a little watery through her tear stained eyes, but she was none the less thankful to see him. Unwinding one arm from around her sister, Usagi held it out to Trunks, beckoning him to join the group embrace.
The young man managed to get a whispered "Usa-chan?" from his painfully tight throat. The silver-haired girl nodded and beckoned again for him to come. Without hesitation Trunks Rushed forward to hug Usagi tightly, all three siblings glad to be back together again.
By now Heero had wandered up to the group and although a feeling of protection crossed with a little jealousy reared up at the sight of another boy being so close to his Usa-chan, a flash of lavender hair caught his eye and he realised that this was her brother Trunks. A wave of warmth spread through him as he remembered the time the two had spent lying in each other's arms while they talked. Sometimes they would talk about their life before meeting each other, other times they would talk about their hopes for the future and when they ran out of things to say they would simply talk about everything and nothing. Heero knew how close Usagi was to her family.
A laugh ran out from the group as they broke apart. "You know Veggie- chan would never let us hear the end of it if he saw us crying, ever!" Usagi said. The laughed again and Heero couldn't help but smile at the odd group. Usagi's dark midnight eyes locked with Heero's prussian gaze and the blonde pulled back to introduce him to the first few members of her family.
Bra choked slightly as her sister used the word 'boyfriend' in her opening sentence, and Trunks blinked stupidly several times before it set in that Usagi was serious about what she had said. A wicked gleam settled in his eyes as he called shotgun on telling that juicy little piece of information to their father and took off running for the house. Bra cried out and took off straight after him. But Usagi only laughed and smiled up at Heero, twinning their fingers again as they set off for the house at their own pace.
Making their way passed the living room to the kitchen they watched from the doorway as the two demi-saiyajin stumbled over themselves to explain the situation to their mother. And judging from the confused look on Bulma's face she wasn't getting any of it.
"Perhaps," Usagi raised her voice over the din of the siblings. "I can help explain what's going on." A smile played at her lips as she watched her mother do a double take.
"Usagi?! Oh my god! Usagi!! My baby!" Bulma and Usagi both started crying as they hugged. The blue haired woman couldn't believe her eyes! Her daughter was finally home! As they finally pulled apart Bulma laughed at how they were acting and wiped at her tears.
"Your father would have a fit if he saw us acting so emotional." She laughed again as Usagi nodded and rubbed at her face.
"Speaking of dad." Said Trunks with a mischievous glint in his eyes. Before the others could blink, the lavender-haired youth was already racing towards the G-room where Vegeta was no doubt trying to kill himself as he tried to become stronger. Usagi laughed as she watched him go before turning back to her mother only to find Bulma eyeing Heero, who still stood in the doorway. An amused smile threatened to break out on the mans face, twitching at the corners of his mouth. But he held it in. Usagi on the other hand was tempted to groan. That was her mother's matchmaking look, and she had seen it all too often when Bulma tried to set Trunks up with a friend's daughter.
Usagi would have sighed and introduced Heero before her mothers over reactive imagination went too far; but it was that moment that her father and brother chose to return to the room. The silver-haired girl sucked in her breath sharply as she and Vegeta stared at each other. Trunks, Bra, Bulma and Heero stayed silent as they watched on, each holding their breath as they waited to see how this scene would play out.
Both figures stood stock still; Usagi in anxiety. Vegeta in suspiciously stunned disbelief. His face remained stoic to a fault, as always. However surprise, delight and hesitation flashed clearly through his gaze. As tentively as Vegeta could be, the spiky haired man took a step forward. Tears of joy made his obsidian eyes sparkle like black diamonds before he pulled Usagi into a tight embrace. Usagi clutched at his shirt and his eyes tightened their grip around her.
After a minute they pulled back and Usagi looked up into Vegeta's face as he placed his hands on her shoulders. "You, young lady, are grounded. " Vegeta scowled at her.
Usagi face vaulted. "What!" She choked out." You're kidding me?!"
"I'm dead serious. What were you thinking. Worrying your family like that? And you probably didn't train while you were away, either. So first thing tomorrow morning you are up and ready for sparing practice."
"Oh, come on! That is so unfair! I trained. Not as hard as I would have at home. But that was only because I didn't have any decent opponents to spar against!" Usagi protested.
"4:30, young lady, and I mean exactly, to the second 4:30." Usagi half scowled -half prepared to protest further- and half pouted -already knowing that arguing was pointless. Besides, as much as she hated the way her father put her down when they fought, her saiyajin blood had her craving an intense battle to the death that only her father seemed to be able to give her.
"Oh, lay off, Vegeta!" Bulma scowled at her husband. "It wasn't like she left on purpose. And besides," That look came into her eyes again and Usagi suddenly felt even more nervous. "Usa still has to tell us what happened while she was gone. And exp-lain who that hansom young man in the doorway is." Hero gulped as Vegeta turned his obsidian gaze onto him and, holding in a giggle at his panicked look, Usagi jumped in to save him.
Oh my god! My hands are pretty much numb from typing all of that. Did everyone enjoy the home coming scene? Don't worry, I still have to do a Epilogue to wrap up all the loose ends. But I'd like to thank everyone who reviewed, and had the patience to wait till my computer was fixed. Love you lots.
Men with Guns
Chapter 10 - Going Home.
Duo grinned as he skipped down the stairs. It was just shy of 4:30 and for once he was going to be early for training. He couldn't wait to see the look on Usagi's face when she saw him up without her 'help'. But it was Duo that was in for a surprise. Throwing open the doors with a cheery whistle the braided boy stopped short. Usagi was nowhere in sight. Slightly confused but not giving it much thought the boy gave a shrug and sat down under a tree, closing his eyes and relaxing his body as he prepared to wait for his trainer.
~*~*~*~
Usagi yawned and stretched luxuriously, her mind still slightly fogged from sleep. Lazily her midnight eyes opened against the bright morning sun. Beside her Heero slept on, the sun hitting his chocolate locks and giving them a golden highlight. His bangs fell into his eyes, even in sleep slightly shading his closed lids. Twisting her body so that she could see his face she gave a soft smile and ran her fingers loosely through his bangs. Heero stirred and pulled her closer. Usagi giggle slightly causing Heero to fully open his eyes.
"Morning." She whispered, her voice still soft with sleep. Heero groaned and pulled her closer still, snuggling his face into the crook of her neck.
"Go back to sleep, Usa." He mumbled. "It's too early." Usagi laughed softly, enjoying the feeling of his arms wrapped around her waist and the heat of his body pressed so close to hers. Over the time that she had been in this dimension she'd never seen Heero act like this. He'd always worn his emotionless mask to protect himself from the complications of emotions, too used to living without them to want or try to adjust to having them as a part of his life. She was proud of how far he'd progressed, even though she had the feeling that he would still act like the Perfect Soldier, at least a little.
Sighing in contentment the silver haired girl curled closer to the boy next to her, her thoughts on the Heero wandering to the ever calm presence of the moon humming gently in the back of her mind. At night the vibration was stronger, it's energy clean and clear as it beat down upone the earth. But even during the day Usagi could feel the power of her home like the soft purring of a kitten in her mind. She sighed again as she thought about how much she missed her friends, and her mother. Oh, how she missed her mothers warm smiles, wise words and gentle encouragement.
A single tear slipped from her eye at the memories of the Moon Kingdom. Heero stirred in his sleep as the hot salty drop spilled on to his chest. His lips parted softly and he gently mumbled her name. Her tears stopped and she smiled. As much as she missed her past, she wouldn't trade her present life to go back for anything in the world.
Finally eased of her ramped thoughts Usagi once again drifted to sleep. But just as the black oblivion of the subconscious claimed her a weird feeling passed over her, like she was forgetting something but not. Not really bothering to pat attention to the feeling Usagi shrugged it off and joined Heero in sleep.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
"Has any one seen Duo around?" Quatra asked the other guys as they all sat down for brunch.
"Not me." Usagi commented as she took a huge mouthful of cereal. For once she was eating with the rest of them.
What about your training, onna?" Wufei asked, curious at the warrior woman's change in routine.
"Oh, well, there's nothing much more I can teach him. He knows all the basics of both energy manipulation and fighting. Any attacks he wants to use he must create himself, and develop his own style of attacks," Explained Usagi.
"So what are you going to do now?" Quatra asked. Usagi shrugged and continued eating.
"Actually I'm working on a way home. I miss my family and its way passed time I headed back." The whole kitchen when silent at the proclamation. All of them had grown to close to the girl and liked her a lot; they didn't want her to leave.
"You're. going?" Quatra question softly, as if he didn't quite believe what he was hearing. The silver haired girl paused in her eating and gave them a heart-warming smile.
"Yeah. It's time for me to go home." The way she said it made them all a little sad. It was almost profound; as if Usagi was accepting a fate she couldn't fight.
Do you know when?" Trowa spoke for the first time. Usagi shrugged and looked down, fiddling with the food on her plate.
"Soon. Very soon." The others all looked down at their feet. They didn't want her to go. Heero saw the sorrowful look on her face and placed his hand over the top of her own, silently willing her strength. Usagi smiled gratefully at him and laced their fingers together.
"We'll miss you." Quatra quietly stated, coming around the table to embrace his friend. The girl smiled and hugged him back (being careful not to crush him, of course), happy that they understood.
"Don't worry. My mother always said; as long as you keep a person in your heart you'll always be together in spirit, no matter how far apart you might be physically."
"Very wise words, Onna." Wufei said, as he too came over to hug Usagi.
"We owe you a great deal." Trowa said, lightly kissing her cheek.
"And now that we've met you we'll be with you in spirit always." Heero finished. Usagi smiled brilliantly at them all, a single tear of joy slipping down her cheek which she scowled at and wiped away. The others laughed.
"Hey," Wufei suddenly realized. "Where's Duo? Normally he would be ruining a moment like this." Everyone looked around, perplexed.
A loud yell from outside brought everyone's head up. Quickly throwing a glance towards the others Usagi took of outside, her saiya-jin heritage making her faster than the others. But when the boys finally caught up with her they were greeted with a sight they were never expecting. A lobster red Duo burnt crispy from sleeping in the sun was doing what looked like a rain dance as he tried to ease the pain of his sunburn. And Usagi was watching him from where she was laughing her arse off on the ground. Wufei promptly doubled over holding his stomach in laughter. Quatra and Trowa burst out laughing, using each other for support. Heero rushed to get his camera, seeing the perfect opportunity for as going away postcard.
"It's not funny!!" Duo screeched as the flash from Heero's camera caught his eye. The others just laughed harder.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
"So I guess this is goodbye." Duo stated. Everyone had gathered on Quatra's back lawn to say goodbye to Usagi and Heero. Dr J and Dr M had left late the afternoon before claiming they had to continue with their research. The others were curious when Dr M had drawn Usagi aside to talk quietly with her. Their words were much too soft to hear and their faces were both unreadable, so they were left in the dark as to what the two women said.
"Just how are you getting back anyway?" Hilde asked.
Usagi smirked. "I. was able to get in touch with an old friend and call in a favour." The others gave her an odd look that plainly told her that they didn't believe her, but the silver-haired girl said no more.
"You know we'll miss you, right Usagi-chan?" Quatra asked as he stepped forward and hugged her good-bye.
"Yes. Getting to know you was defiantly. interesting." Trowa commented as he, too, moved to embrace her. Usagi tried to look indignant but she couldn't help but laugh at the normally silent mans remark.
"Yeah, babe. Thanks for everything." Due grinned as he gave Usagi a big bear hug. Usagi grinned too and playfully punched him on the arm. Usagi remembered the first time she'd done that; Duo had fallen over and accidentally hit his head on the wall and passed out.
"You just concentrate on your training, Duo. You put a lot of hard work into it and I'm proud of you." Duo gave a blush under the comment and gave his mentor a goofy grin.
Everyone eyed Wufei as he stepped forward. Most were expecting a comment on how he was glad to be rid of the weak onna, especially since now his katana was safely returned with no chances of it. ahm. going missing. But instead the Chinese boy stared at her for a second, before surprising everyone and bowing respectfully.
"May Nataku watch over you, Onna." Was all he said. Usagi smiled and nodded her head to return the bow. The two shook hands and Wufei returned her smile before stepping back again.
Katherine and Hilde both rushed froward and hugged her, both teary eyed. They told Usagi they'd miss her and their shopping sprees and girly chats. The silver haired girl reassured them that she would never forget them, or anyone, and that she was sure one of the boys would gladly take her place. Trowa paled and Duo, Quatra and Wufei backed up a pace. The girls had a good laugh at their expense and parted with smiled all round.
"Well, we'd better be going. Thank you, for taking care of me. It really is appreciated." The others and Heero shook hands, before the unruly haired boy took his place by Usagi's side. "You ready to go?" She asked him.
"Heero smiled and took her hand in his. "As long as you explain to your father who I am before he kills me." Usagi laughed at that one.
Don't worry. After all the drams we went through getting together there's no way I'm going to let you get away so easily!" Heero chuckled, and the others had to admit they liked the sound. In all the years that they'd known him not one of them ever remembered hearing him laugh.
"Hey, don't be strangers, you two!" Duo said. "Maybe that friend of yours will let you come back for a visit." He gave Usagi a wink.
"I'll see what I can do." The silver-haired girl chuckled. Suddenly one of the servants came rushing up. He skidded to a stop, panting for breath and struggling to draw air into his lungs.
"M-Master Quatra!" He struggled to get out. His eyes were wide with panic and he looked like he was ready to pass out right there on the grass. "It's. it's." But before he could finish a blood-curdling screech was heard.
"HHHeeeeeerrrrrrooooo!!!" The others snapped their heads towards the mansion and their eyes widened as they saw Relena pelting across the lawn. Before they could do anything the girl had latched herself firmly to Heero's arm and was rubbing her cheek against the sleeve of his shirt. Heero shot Usagi a look which she clearly understood, before trying unsuccessfully to pry Relena off of him.
"Oh, Heero!! I haven't seen you in ages! How are you? How about dinner tonight? And a movie, Too! There's this really cool movie screening at the moment about this woman who loses her memory and her neglectful husband has to win back her love before a hansom social worker steals her heart! Oh, it's so romantic! Let's go see it!"
Usagi watched the scene before her in interest as she tilted her head to the side. She wanted to make this good so *shudder* QUEEN Relena would get the message once and far all. An Almost unholy glint came into her eyes as an idea came to her. This would be more fun than Duo's first day of training!
Saddling up to the blonde, braided harpy the demi-saiyajin casually tapped her on the shoulder with enough force to break her out of her ramblings. Relena paused mid-sentence and gave Usagi a distasteful glance.
"Oh! It's you." She sniffed as if she was looking at something nasty the dog did. Usagi restrained herself from straight out punching the pacifist twit. She'd learned from their earlier run ins that the only way to get rid of this girl - if you could classify her as human - was not through physical violence; even though punching her stupid would bring great satisfaction. This required tact.
"Hello, Miss Relena." She began politely, her voice soft and pleasant, like the kind of voice you would use to calm a child after a nightmare. "It's a pleasure to see you again. Too bad it will be our last meeting." Her voice was dripping in sorrow. And just like she had planned Relena's interest was caught by the implication of her parting.
"Did you say 'last'?"
Usagi gave a sigh, her dark midnight eyes catching Relena's cornflower blue eyes. "Yes, I'm afraid so. You came right in the middle of our farewells. It's time I get back to my family." Relena's death grip on Heero's arm slackened a bit as she turned her attention towards the journeying silver haired girl.
"You mean. You're leaving?!" He voice was carefully controlled, but still it was tinged with euphoria. That irrational female side of her didn't know why she should consider Usagi as competition for Heero's affection; the blonde girl had never shown any interest towards Heero other than a friendly exchange of conversation. Perhaps it was because they had common interests that brought them just a little bit closer. But whatever it was Relena felt threatened by it, and it imposed on her plans to woo Heero. And that was something she wasn't willing to let happen.
"Yes, today actually. Like I said my family is waiting for us," That unholy glint came back to her eyes and her hand came to sit on her stomach like an expecting mother. "And won't dad be surprised when he finds out little surprise." An adoring, contented smile graced her lips and everyone started at her insinuations. Heero's eyes widened as he heard her words. He knew he and Usagi had gone no further than kissing, but one day he did hope to have children and settle down. The thought of Usagi pregnant, with his child no less, threatened to ignite a fiery crimson blush and started him off on a ramped train of thoughts.
Relena herself paled to a sickly white and her eyes widened to dominate her face. Her grip on Heero dropped and the prussian eyes boy quickly stepped out of reach while he could. Relena didn't notice this, her attention riveted on Usagi. She didn't take into account the blondes' young age, or that she had only recently entered Heero's life, or that Heero himself was cold and cautious around new people and it would have been a while till he opened up to anyone, not to mention Heero was still haunted by his sordid past and wouldn't want to drag anyone into that kind of life; she was too shocked by Usagi's words.
"You're." Relena couldn't bring herself to say the word as if pronouncing it would remove all doubts it could be true. The rest of the group watched in fascination, catching the barely hidden glint of mischief in her dark eyes. Heero had to admit, after the initial shock of his lovers words the show between Relena and his Usa-chan was quite entertaining. Definitely a sight to see.
Usagi let out a girlish giggle that belied what Relena knew as a tough don't-mess-with-me woman of the world personality. "Ah huh. I'm so lucky that Heero has so much honour to come with me. I'm afraid my father wouldn't be too happy if I returned alone after he found our what had happened." Heero had to smirk. So far Usagi hadn't directly said she was pregnant, and although her words were true to the situation Relena was giving them a whole new meaning by thinking she was.
"Heero?!" She squeaked out through her painfully constricted throat. Her face was the colour of Clag Glue, and her blue eyes were so wide the others were afraid they'd just 'pop' out of their sockets. Her jaw was hanging loose somewhere around her knee's and Usagi was feverantly wishing she had a camera on her.
"Yep. Although I hate to make Heero leave everything he's worked so hard for. But this was his decision, and I'm thankful that it was this one. I'll miss the guys, of course. But I long for home, and my family." She glanced quickly at her left wrist where her watch/communicator sat. "And it's time for us to leave, we really are running late." She smiled gently, innocently, and held out her hand to Heero. Relena gapped as the prussian eyed boy walked over to Usagi and took her hand, his free arm wrapping around her waist. Usagi smiled and leaned up, Heero's own head coning down till their lips met in a chaste kiss. Relena watched in pole-axed horror before giving a final squeak and fainting dead away.
Usagi and Heero gazed into each other's eyes for a few passion dazed minutes before they both turned to the others, who were applauding at the performance. Usagi burst out laughing and gave a bow. Heero only smirked, inwardly jumping for joy.
"You have no idea how satisfying that was." Usagi smirked.
"It was just as fun to watch." Duo laughed. It took a good few minutes before the group could get a hold of themselves and contain their laughter. And it was only because the air stilled, silence reigned, and a swirling abyss of darkness opened behind them. They sombred quickly as they realised that this was truly goodbye for their friends. Another quick round of hugs and handshakes went round and Usagi and Heero stepped up to the portal.
Usagi's hand reached out for Heero's and their fingers twinned. The silver haired girl gave it a reassuring squeeze and smiled at him. Heero gave the barest of smiles back and with a final wave to their friends they stepped through the portal. The others watched in sorrow as the two disappeared, and the portal closed behind them.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Heero blinked as his vision went from black to lush green as he found himself standing in the middle of a forest full of trees. He didn't know what he was expecting, but this certainly surprised him. Heero looked down at his lover to see her smiling in delight. He watched her close her eyes and take a deep breath, remembering how much she lover this forest. Looking up at Heero and locking eyes with him she laughed joyfully and began to pull him towards her home where she knew her family was. Heero had to laugh as well, her joy contagious.
Her senses had already located their energy signatures and each member of her family hummed softly in the back of her mind. It only took 5 minutes to reach the Capsule Corporation grounds. The very sight of it caused Usagi's heart to beat faster in excitement. Throwing a glance at Heero, the unruly haired man simply smiled to show her he didn't mind her running on ahead. After all, this was her family they were talking about. Usagi smiled brilliantly and quickly pulled Heero's head to down till their lips met in a brief yet passionate kiss. Heero watched, still a little dazed, as Usagi took off running towards the cluster of white domed shaped buildings that were Capsule Corporation.
The first person Usagi met was Bra, who she ran into, quite literally, as she rounded a corner. Both girls sat there as they waited for the little stars circling around their heads to disappear. When they did Bra found herself blinking repeatedly and wondering is she' hit her head way too hard in order to see the vision before her.
"U-Usa-gi?" She stuttered. The apparition before her smiled so wide it nearly split her face and lunged forward to embrace her in a tight hug.
"Bra!!" Usagi cried out, unbidden tears filling her beautiful eyes.
"Usagi!!" It seemed an eternity passed as the two sisters clung to each other and cried. They were making such a commotion that Trunks' saiyajin ears couldn't help bet hear, brining the lavender-haired boy to the scene, sword drawn and power levels already building. Usagi was the first to see him, a little watery through her tear stained eyes, but she was none the less thankful to see him. Unwinding one arm from around her sister, Usagi held it out to Trunks, beckoning him to join the group embrace.
The young man managed to get a whispered "Usa-chan?" from his painfully tight throat. The silver-haired girl nodded and beckoned again for him to come. Without hesitation Trunks Rushed forward to hug Usagi tightly, all three siblings glad to be back together again.
By now Heero had wandered up to the group and although a feeling of protection crossed with a little jealousy reared up at the sight of another boy being so close to his Usa-chan, a flash of lavender hair caught his eye and he realised that this was her brother Trunks. A wave of warmth spread through him as he remembered the time the two had spent lying in each other's arms while they talked. Sometimes they would talk about their life before meeting each other, other times they would talk about their hopes for the future and when they ran out of things to say they would simply talk about everything and nothing. Heero knew how close Usagi was to her family.
A laugh ran out from the group as they broke apart. "You know Veggie- chan would never let us hear the end of it if he saw us crying, ever!" Usagi said. The laughed again and Heero couldn't help but smile at the odd group. Usagi's dark midnight eyes locked with Heero's prussian gaze and the blonde pulled back to introduce him to the first few members of her family.
Bra choked slightly as her sister used the word 'boyfriend' in her opening sentence, and Trunks blinked stupidly several times before it set in that Usagi was serious about what she had said. A wicked gleam settled in his eyes as he called shotgun on telling that juicy little piece of information to their father and took off running for the house. Bra cried out and took off straight after him. But Usagi only laughed and smiled up at Heero, twinning their fingers again as they set off for the house at their own pace.
Making their way passed the living room to the kitchen they watched from the doorway as the two demi-saiyajin stumbled over themselves to explain the situation to their mother. And judging from the confused look on Bulma's face she wasn't getting any of it.
"Perhaps," Usagi raised her voice over the din of the siblings. "I can help explain what's going on." A smile played at her lips as she watched her mother do a double take.
"Usagi?! Oh my god! Usagi!! My baby!" Bulma and Usagi both started crying as they hugged. The blue haired woman couldn't believe her eyes! Her daughter was finally home! As they finally pulled apart Bulma laughed at how they were acting and wiped at her tears.
"Your father would have a fit if he saw us acting so emotional." She laughed again as Usagi nodded and rubbed at her face.
"Speaking of dad." Said Trunks with a mischievous glint in his eyes. Before the others could blink, the lavender-haired youth was already racing towards the G-room where Vegeta was no doubt trying to kill himself as he tried to become stronger. Usagi laughed as she watched him go before turning back to her mother only to find Bulma eyeing Heero, who still stood in the doorway. An amused smile threatened to break out on the mans face, twitching at the corners of his mouth. But he held it in. Usagi on the other hand was tempted to groan. That was her mother's matchmaking look, and she had seen it all too often when Bulma tried to set Trunks up with a friend's daughter.
Usagi would have sighed and introduced Heero before her mothers over reactive imagination went too far; but it was that moment that her father and brother chose to return to the room. The silver-haired girl sucked in her breath sharply as she and Vegeta stared at each other. Trunks, Bra, Bulma and Heero stayed silent as they watched on, each holding their breath as they waited to see how this scene would play out.
Both figures stood stock still; Usagi in anxiety. Vegeta in suspiciously stunned disbelief. His face remained stoic to a fault, as always. However surprise, delight and hesitation flashed clearly through his gaze. As tentively as Vegeta could be, the spiky haired man took a step forward. Tears of joy made his obsidian eyes sparkle like black diamonds before he pulled Usagi into a tight embrace. Usagi clutched at his shirt and his eyes tightened their grip around her.
After a minute they pulled back and Usagi looked up into Vegeta's face as he placed his hands on her shoulders. "You, young lady, are grounded. " Vegeta scowled at her.
Usagi face vaulted. "What!" She choked out." You're kidding me?!"
"I'm dead serious. What were you thinking. Worrying your family like that? And you probably didn't train while you were away, either. So first thing tomorrow morning you are up and ready for sparing practice."
"Oh, come on! That is so unfair! I trained. Not as hard as I would have at home. But that was only because I didn't have any decent opponents to spar against!" Usagi protested.
"4:30, young lady, and I mean exactly, to the second 4:30." Usagi half scowled -half prepared to protest further- and half pouted -already knowing that arguing was pointless. Besides, as much as she hated the way her father put her down when they fought, her saiyajin blood had her craving an intense battle to the death that only her father seemed to be able to give her.
"Oh, lay off, Vegeta!" Bulma scowled at her husband. "It wasn't like she left on purpose. And besides," That look came into her eyes again and Usagi suddenly felt even more nervous. "Usa still has to tell us what happened while she was gone. And exp-lain who that hansom young man in the doorway is." Hero gulped as Vegeta turned his obsidian gaze onto him and, holding in a giggle at his panicked look, Usagi jumped in to save him.
Oh my god! My hands are pretty much numb from typing all of that. Did everyone enjoy the home coming scene? Don't worry, I still have to do a Epilogue to wrap up all the loose ends. But I'd like to thank everyone who reviewed, and had the patience to wait till my computer was fixed. Love you lots.