Vacation from Boredom
Disclaimer: I do not own Sailor Moon or Fushigi Yuugi, though I DO wish I owned Tasuki-chan and Chichiri-chan! Anyway, the story belongs to me, the characters don't, just dun steal my fic or I'll cry *pouts* And then my muses will come after you with a vengeance *evil smirk*
Note: All right, I've been wanting to write a SM/FY fic for a long time now so here it is. Don't be surprised if the chappies to this one are produced a lot faster than other fics. I get bored with just writing SM/GW or SM/DBZ so *shrugs* I started another one. I'm bad *blushes* Anyway, I have no idea where this is gonna head, I'm just makin it up as I go (which is the case with most if not ALL of my fics. keeps me interested in writing *shrugs*.) Expect lots of plot twists *evil smirk* I'll keep ya on your toes with em, I promise *smiles kawaiily*. And don't get mad when I leave ya with cliffhangers cuz it's gonna happen. That is, if anyone even reads this sides my Imouto-chans and Oneesans *shrugs* Well, on to the story. oh yeah, email me at pokahydee@hotmail.com
Chapter 4 - Jealous?
"I know that voice." Usagi whispered as a fear-stricken look crossed her face. "He's. one of them." She said as her finger narrowed as closely as possible on Suboshi. It was amazing how much sharper her senses had become now that she wasn't able to see.
Nuriko looked toward the young man Usagi pointed to and frowned slightly. The young man was already out the door and running toward the forest. Nuriko took a step forward, intent on going after the guy that had hurt Usagi.
"Matte Nuriko." Hotohori's soft voice broke into Nuriko's thoughts. "Let him go, he won't be so bold now."
"Demo-" Nuriko started but was cut off by Hotohori.
"I said, let him go. We can't be sure there aren't more of them waiting in the forest." Hotohori said calmly. Nuriko frowned deeply, but nodded in agreement. He couldn't bring danger to Usagi or Suzako no Miko, and of course he couldn't put Hotohori in danger. Even though it was obvious Hotohori loved Suzako no Miko, Nuriko still cared about him and wanted to make sure he was safe.
"Fine." Nuriko said as he crossed his arms over his chest. "Let's just go back to our room." The small gray kitten had decided to take a seat on Nuriko's shoulder and lay perched upon him sound asleep.
"Hai." Hotohori replied with a nod of his head. He walked over to Miaka and Usagi and spoke in a slow even voice. "Are the two of you finished eating?" There was a nod from both of the girls, but Usagi wasn't able to shake the feeling of dread in the pit of her stomach. "Let's retire for the evening, it's starting to get late."
"He was one of them. the ones that brought me here. it had to be him." Usagi said solemnly as she looked down at the floor, though she didn't see the floor.
"Here Usagi." Hotohori said as he took the blond girl's hands and began to lead her toward the stairs. She tripped a few times over chairs and floorboards so Hotohori decided he'd just carry her the rest of the way. He didn't notice the blush that touched Usagi's cheeks after he did this, though.
****
Suboshi cursed quietly to himself as he retreated to the safety of the forest. He knew he should have used the clam. How could he have known that girl was capable of recognizing a voice? Next time he'd have to be more careful.
"How did she know it was me?" He asked himself as he slammed his fist into a nearby tree. "Will those Suzako Seishi come after me?" He wondered out loud as he rubbed his throbbing fist. He made his way through the forest, heading for the small camp he had set up earlier. He heard dog barking as he approached the small camp and smirked slightly. Next time he'd make her come to him. He already had a plan. "Nakago said to wait for him, but I want answers. I can handle this, then Nakago will know I'm capable of more important missions."
****
Usagi was sitting in the window of their room with her face toward the sky. She felt a chill breeze come through the window and shivered involuntarily. She wanted to see the moon. Whenever she looked at the moon, she felt reassured that things would work out right. It was like her mother was trying to send her motivation and contentment.
"What are you looking at?" Nuriko asked, forgetting for the moment that Usagi couldn't see.
"I'm looking at the moon, at least. where it should be." Usagi said quietly as she stared out the window. Nuriko frowned slightly, he wanted to help her; he just wasn't sure what he could do. Diana had really seemed to grow attached to Nuriko; she still sat on his shoulder, purring quietly.
"Don't worry Usagi-sama, we'll find a way home soon." Diana said as she jumped from Nuriko's shoulder to Usagi's. Usagi smiled slightly at the gray kitten, always such an optimist.
"Do you miss ChibiUsa?" Usagi asked the kitten. Diana jumped from Usagi's shoulder to her hands that opened for the kitten.
"Hai, what do you think ChibiUsa is doing right now?" Diana asked as she stared up at Usagi.
"I'm not sure, but I have to get Mamo-chan back soon. If they hurt him I'll. I'll never be able to forgive myself." Usagi said quietly as a tear slid from her cerulean blue eye.
Nuriko was a little surprised. It was strange to see a kitten carry on an intelligent conversation with a person. It was strange to see a cat talk at all, even to Miaka.
"I've never heard of a cat that talked." Miaka had said earlier after Usagi's explanation. "Even if her friend IS a genius, I don't think she could make a cat talk."
I'm going to get some answers from her soon. Nuriko thought to himself. I can't force them out of her though. She's from Miaka's world so does that make her a Miko?
****
Ami was sitting on the steps at Rei's temple, typing quickly on a keyboard. Makoto sat beside her with a cup of tea in her hand. The rest of the Senshi had broken up into groups to search for Usagi, but there was no sign of her anyway.
"Mamoru's on!" Ami cried as a name popped up on her instant messenger.
WaterGoddess: Mamoru, we have a problem! TuxKamen: oh? WaterGoddess: Usagi's disappeared. TuxKamen: O.O nani!?! where is she? did she leave a note? WaterGoddess: No one knows where she is. She went for a walk last night and never came back. We've formed search parties and everyone's searching.
"Let me talk to him!" Makoto interrupted, trying to push Ami's hands away from the keyboard.
"Matte!" Ami snapped as she gently slapped Makoto's hand.
TuxKamen: is it a new enemy? WaterGoddess: From what we've gathered it doesn't seem likely. If it was, we've seen no sign that it was. TuxKamen: kuso. i'm coming to Japan. WaterGoddess: Don't, we can handle this. You need to focus on your school, you can't just leave. I'll keep you posted on updates all right? TuxKamen: hai, if it is a new enemy, i'm coming to protect Usako WaterGoddess: Hai, Ja ne WaterGoddess has signed off.
"Now what do we do?" Makoto asked as Ami closed the laptop. Ami had been looking through police reports to see if anyone had been brought in. When she'd come up with none, she decided that they'd join in the search for Usagi.
"Come on, we're going to look for Usagi-chan too."
****
Usagi awoke the next morning and cuddled against the warmth to her left. It was like a little heater was in her bed, she assumed it was ChibiUsa. The little girl would curl up with Usagi every now and then when she had nightmares. At first it had taken Usagi by surprise and she'd shoved ChibiUsa out of her bed, but now it was almost a comfort. ChibiUsa missed her parents, and she missed Mamoru greatly so at least they had each other.
"Eh?" A soft voice questioned as two arms wrapped around his waist. Nuriko's eyes went wide when he realized that Usagi was lying in HIS bed. He blinked a few times as he saw a smile cross her lips.
"Bad dream ChibiUsa-chan?" She questioned sleepily, her eyes still closed.
"ChibiUsa?" Nuriko questioned, a confused look on his face. Hmm. who's ChibiUsa? Better yet, who's this 'Mamo-chan' she was mumbling about all night?
"Don't worry ChibiUsa-chan, you can go back to sleep, I'll stay here." Usagi soft voice continued. Nuriko could see she was still half-asleep and hadn't realized who he was yet. He lay back down and let her cuddle up against him. This girl sure was strange, he'd thought Miaka was strange but Usagi really took the cake. Are all the people from Miaka's world weird like this? Nuriko silently wondered as Usagi's breathing deepened and she fell back asleep.
Hotohori sat up and rubbed the sleep from his eyes. He'd heard Usagi mumbling something in her sleep and glanced toward the blond's voice. He was slightly surprised when he saw Usagi lying in Nuriko's bed with her arms wrapped around him. He blinked several times at the picture, wondering if Nuriko even knew she was there. He probably wouldn't be too pleased; hopefully Usagi would wake up first.
"Hotohori?" A quiet voice asked from the side.
"Ne?" He asked as he turned toward Miaka.
"Do you think we'll find another Suzako Seishi today?" Miaka asked, her eyes looked sad as she hugged her knees.
"I'm hoping. The sooner we find them, the sooner we can save Yui ne?" Hotohori said as he tried to comfort the young girl. He walked over and sat on the edge of her bed and pulled her into a hug. She was slightly surprised; it showed on her face. He pulled away from the hug and smiled at Miaka.
"Hai!" She said as a smile broke out across her face. "Then I can see Tamahome again too!" Hotohori smiled at her, but he felt sad that she had chosen Tamahome over him. Hotohori would do anything for her happiness, and he would protect her with his life. That's how great his love for her was.
Usagi stirred again, this time she stretched her arms and yawned loudly. She blinked her eyes a few times and rubbed them with her hands. A confused look crossed her face as she tried to focus her vision.
"Nani? What's wrong with my eyes?" She wondered quietly to herself. "ChibiUsa, turn the light on ne?" She said as she rolled over and pulled the blanket with her.
"I'm not ChibiUsa." A feminine voice purred into her ear. Usagi's eyes popped back open as she snatched the pillow from under her head. She swung the pillow and effectively knocked Nuriko off the bed and onto the floor.
"Hentai!" Usagi yelled as she clutched the pillow tightly, ready to swing again if necessary.
"Baka!!" The voice growled as Nuriko sat up and rubbed his head. His eyes narrowed on Usagi and he snatched the pillow from her hands, the smacked her in the face with it. Usagi fell back against the wall, a dazed look on her face.
"I guess yesterday wasn't a dream ne?" Usagi asked as she rubbed her head where she'd hit the wall.
"No, it wasn't a dream." Nuriko said dryly.
"What are you doing in my bed, Nuriko?!" Usagi demanded angrily.
"Your bed? Don't you mean my bed?" Nuriko asked as he crossed his arms over his chest.
"Eh? Your bed?" Usagi questioned, a puzzled look on her face. Nuriko sighed and let his arms drop to his sides.
"Hai, you were here when I woke up." Nuriko said as he helped Usagi to her feet. She rubbed her eyes gingerly.
"I miss ChibiUsa-chan." Usagi said quietly, more to herself than anyone in particular.
"Who's ChibiUsa?" Miaka questioned as she stood up and walked toward Usagi.
"She's my, ummm, imouto." Usagi said nervously. It was best to keep the fact that ChibiUsa was her future daughter to herself. Especially when she was in ancient China, according to Miaka.
"Oh, I was just wondering, I heard you talking about her last night." Miaka said with a smile.
"Honto?" Usagi asked, a sweatdrop on her forehead. She hated when she was caught talking in her sleep; it was so embarrassing.
"Hurry and dress so we can continue on our way." Hotohori said a few minutes later.
"Hai!" Usagi and Miaka answered in unison. Usagi only had one outfit to wear, she'd borrowed some of Miaka's pajamas the night before but she was forced to put the hot dress back on. There was one other thing she could wear but that could be bad. The skirt was a little short and Miaka might be a little shocked.
"Hey Usagi, where did you get this dress?" Miaka asked as she helped Usagi get dressed. Nuriko and Hotohori had gone down to get the horses ready for their departure.
"Huh? My dress?" Usagi questioned. She hadn't even really thought of it. "My mom made it for me a long time ago." She improvised.
"Is it for your wedding?" Miaka asked as she fingered the silky fabric.
"You could say that." Usagi said as another sweatdrop appeared on the back of her head. A few minutes later there was a soft knock on the door.
"Coming!" Miaka cried as she hoisted her backpack and slung it over her arm. "This way Usagi-chan!" She grabbed Usagi's hand and led her toward the door, making sure she didn't trip on anything. Miaka opened the door to reveal Hotohori and Nuriko.
"Are we all ready to leave?" Hotohori asked with a smile. Usagi and Miaka both nodded with huge smiles on their faces. Nuriko walked through the door and scooped Usagi up in his arms. She blushed immediately and squirmed.
"I can walk, you know." She said as she put her nose in the air and crossed her arms over her chest. Nuriko laughed to himself.
"I'd love to see you fall over another stool." Nuriko said jokingly. Usagi puffed up her pink cheeks indignantly.
"It's not my fault that jerk put it in the middle of the floor!" Usagi countered.
"Heh, it was under his feet." Nuriko said with a smirk. Usagi fumed quietly but didn't say anything. "Don't get all pissed, princess, it was just a joke." Usagi's eyes flew open when he called her princess. Did he know? Had Diana slipped? She had been spending an awful lot of time with him. "What, you don't like my nickname?" He questioned when he saw the surprised look.
"It's not that, I was just thinking of something." Usagi said quietly. Nuriko's smile faded as Usagi grew solemn. Maybe he shouldn't have called her 'princess' after all. It had just kind of slipped out, though.
****
Usagi sighed heavily and leaned back against Nuriko. They had been riding for hours and she was bored out of her mind. She knew Mamoru was in trouble, but there wasn't anything she could do from her current position. She didn't even know where to start looking. Even if she knew where he was, how would she get there? She still couldn't see anything and she didn't know anything about the countryside. She only knew what the country was called because she overheard Miaka saying something about Konan country.
"What are you thinking about?" Nuriko asked Usagi as an arm wrapped loosely around her waist to balance her.
"Hmm? Oh. nothing." She said quietly. The smile on Nuriko's face faded. He didn't know how to deal with this girl. At times she was so much like Miaka he thought he'd end up strangling her, but other times she was so solemn and lost. Stupid girls. He thought to himself. He knew he was mostly a woman, but there were still traits about him that made him a man. Though he looked, sounded, and acted like a woman, he thought more like a man than he did as a woman. He was good at pretending that his thoughts were those of a woman's though. He was even able to fool himself at times.
"Can we take a break?" Miaka whined from up ahead. Hotohori and Nuriko agreed so they stopped near a small lake with a river running through it.
Nuriko jumped down off of the horse and put his hands on Usagi's waist to help her down. Her hands immediately searched for his shoulders so she could balance herself. He lifted her off the horse and set her gently on the ground beside him.
"Meow." A soft noise begged from the horse's back.
"Heh, sorry koneko." Nuriko said with a smile as he picked up the kitten and set her on Usagi's shoulder.
"Where are we?" Usagi asked as Nuriko took her hands and began to lead her toward the lake.
"We're just taking a break. Be careful, though, there's a lake right in front of you. We wouldn't want you to fall in the water and drown." Nuriko said jokingly. Usagi stuck her tongue out at him and reached her hand down to tickle him. Nuriko burst into a fit of giggles and took a few steps backward. His heel fell into a hole that sent him off balance. He fell backward and landed on his butt in the lake. Usagi heard the splash and Nuriko's angry growl and immediately broke into a fit of giggles.
"Now who's the klutz!" Usagi teased as she giggled happily. She didn't notice the hand that grabbed her wrist until it was too late. She went sprawling forward into the lake with a splash. Nuriko lifted her face out of the water to hear her sputtering.
"That's what you get kid." Nuriko said as he ruffled her wet hair, affectivity messing up the matching buns.
"Hey! No fair!" Usagi cried as she tackled Nuriko into the water again. She laughed loudly and pulled at the end of Nuriko's braid, stealing the tie. "Ha ha! I win!" She cried as she felt around for the shore and run up into the grass. She turned around and stuck her tongue out at Nuriko. Nuriko trudged up onto shore and wrung his hair out.
"I'll get you back, kid." Nuriko said with a smirk. "This isn't over yet."
Usagi had already pulled both of the ties from her buns. Her wet golden tresses fell down around her face and shoulders and hung nearly to the ground. She grabbed the end of her hair and began to wring the water out as best she could; she was failing miserably though. Her white dress was soaked all the way through and was slightly translucent. It clung to her body indecently similar to her dress as NeoQueen Serenity.
"It's going to take hours for this to dry!" Usagi whined as she tried to get some of the water out of the skirt. Nuriko laughed quietly at the girl.
"Take it easy kid, just put this on." Nuriko said as he tossed a simple kimono to her. Hotohori had bought it for Miaka in one of the markets earlier during the trip. Usagi caught the cloth and fingered it carefully. It was made of silk; it felt smooth against her skin when she touched the sleeves and sash.
"Demo-" Usagi started as she blushed.
"Don't worry, Hotohori and Miaka aren't around." Nuriko said as he plopped down on the ground with his arms crossed over his chest.
"I can't change with you here." Usagi said hesitantly. Usagi gasped when she heard Nuriko start to laugh.
"Don't worry kid, I'm gay. I'm in love with Hotohori." Nuriko explained with a carefree look.
"Honto?" Usagi questioned, her brows wrinkled.
"Hai hai. Now get out of those wet clothes, you're going to get sick." He said as he stood and walked over to her. He spun her around and unzipped the dress in one quick movement.
"Hentai!" Usagi shrieked as she swung her arms at Nuriko, and missed terribly.
"Hai hai." Nuriko mumbled as he wrapped the kimono around Usagi and quickly tied the sash around her waist. Usagi shivered involuntarily as the cold silk touched her skin. "I'll build a fire ne?" Usagi nodded, her cheeks still flaming red.
"We're back!" Miaka called as she came running toward the small fire. Nuriko was sitting on one side in just his pants and Usagi sat on the other in Miaka's kimono. Usagi was staring at the cup in her hands, her thoughts elsewhere. "Helllloooo!!! Usaaaagggiiiii!!!" Miaka called as she waved her hand back and forth in front of Usagi's face.
"Nani?!" Usagi jumped as she felt the breeze from Miaka's hand and heard the high-pitched screech from the girl. Usagi promptly fell backward and hit her head on the ground. "Itai!" She whined as she held her head. "Don't sneak up on me like that!" Usagi growled at Miaka. There was a sweatdrop Miaka's forehead as she stood in front of Usagi.
"Hehe, gomen Usagi-chan!" Miaka said as she rubbed the back of my head. "I forgot you couldn't see me."
"Well, don't forget again!" Usagi said as she pouted and rubbed her head.
"Where did you go?" Nuriko asked when Hotohori sat down by the fire.
"There was someone on the road we stopped to talk to." Hotohori explained.
"Any luck?" Nuriko asked calmly.
"Iie." He replied.
"Ne Miaka?" Usagi questioned as she turned in the direction Miaka had been last.
"Hai?" Miaka replied curiously.
"What are you looking for anyway?" Usagi asked as she tilted her head to the side.
"We're looking for the rest of the Suzako Seishi." Miaka said proudly. "We've already found four of them!"
"How many are there?" Usagi asked, thinking of her own Senshi at home. They must be so worried about her. And ChibiUsa must be out of her mind with both Mamoru and her missing.
"Seven, but." Miaka paused for a minute and looked down at the ground.
"But?" Usagi inquired, wondering why Miaka had stopped.
"The Seiryuu Seishi have Tamahome." Miaka replied sadly.
"Tamahome?" Usagi questioned. Since she wasn't able to see Miaka's facial expressions, she was unable to see the sadness on her face. She had sensed a change in Miaka's voice though. She seemed sad. "Do you. love him?" Usagi asked after having sensed the sadness. Miaka was silent for a few seconds.
"Hai."
Usagi frowned slightly and nodded her head. She knew what it was like to be away from the one she loved. She knew what it was like more than most people. She had been separated from her prince for a thousand years and when they finally found each other again, their memories had been erased. Mamoru hadn't remembered her at all after Beryl; he didn't even remember the blond middle schooler he would always pick on. Then he'd gone to America and they were separated again. This time by an ocean. it hadn't dimmed her feelings for him, though. She would treasure the time they spent together all the more. Like the saying goes "Absence makes the heart grow fonder." That was definitely true in Mamoru and Usagi's case.
~Usako.~ A familiar voice whispered near Usagi's ear. Usagi lifted her head at the voice and spun around immediately.
"Mamo-chan." She whispered as she looked out into the forest with blind eyes. She stood up and turned toward the forest, trying to hear a leaf rustle or a twig snap.
"Usagi?" Nuriko questioned as he saw the girl rise to her feet. Before anyone could react, Usagi took off into the forest. "Matte!!"
"Mamo-chan!! Where are you!?!" Usagi cried as she ran through the forest. Branches slashed across her face and legs but still she pushed herself to run faster. Surprisingly, though, she didn't run into any trees or trip on any tree roots.
"Usagi come back!!" Nuriko shouted as he ran after the blond. No matter how fast he ran, he was unable to keep up, though. He was aware of Hotohori and Miaka running after him, but his focus was solely on Usagi.
"Mamo-chan!! Wait for me!!" Usagi cried as she ran, following the voice.
~You're almost there Usako.~ Mamoru soft voice coaxed Usagi on through the forest.
"O-negai Mamo-chan!" Usagi cried as tears streamed down her face. "Matte!!"
~The clearing. I'm in the clearing.~ The voice said softly.
Usagi ran into a small clearing in the forest. She didn't know how she knew it was a clearing, maybe it was the sun beating down on her, maybe it was the soft breeze. It didn't matter how she knew, she just seemed to sense it. There. standing in the clearing was a man with black hair and warm blue eyes. She took a few steps forward and reached her hand out, searching for the man she loved.
Nuriko was following closely behind Usagi and was surprised when she stopped in the clearing. He ran up beside her and was shocked to see a man with black hair and blue eyes standing in the middle of the clearing. He held a red rose in one hand and had a white mask over his eyes. Is this the one she calls 'Mamo-chan'? Nuriko thought to himself as his eyes narrowed on the man.
"It's you Mamo-chan." Usagi said through her tears. "You're really here."
"Hai Usako, I'm here." His voice was soft and gentle as his arms wrapped around her waist. He pulled Usagi into an embrace and nuzzled his face into her neck.
"I'm so glad you're safe." Usagi said as she buried her face in his chest. "I was so worried, I thought they were going to kill you."
"Don't worry Usako, I'm here now." Mamoru said. "I'll protect you from them."
Nuriko watched the scene in surprise. He was almost angry with the guy with black hair. She was so worried about him, why didn't he show up sooner? Instead this guy just lets Usagi worry and then pops up out of nowhere. Nuriko frowned deeply and crossed his arms over his chest. Something didn't feel quite right here. How could this guy get away from the Seiryuu Seishi alone when he couldn't before?
"Now we can go home to ChibiUsa." Usagi said happily as she lay in Mamoru's arms.
"Chibi. Usa.?"
::Fin::
September 12, 2002
Okay, sorry for the long wait, MAJOR writers block. For months now I haven't really been able to write anything. A few weeks ago I sat down and watched FY again until like the episode when Nuriko died *sniff* I HATE that episode, it's too sad. Anyway, I'm not sure how fast the chappies are gonna be produced here so I wrote a lengthy one. I'd rather write a long chappie then write two short ones *shrugs* Anyway, please review or email me at pokahydee@hotmail.com. Anyway, I'll update whenever I can find the time, sorry if it's not too soon.
Disclaimer: I do not own Sailor Moon or Fushigi Yuugi, though I DO wish I owned Tasuki-chan and Chichiri-chan! Anyway, the story belongs to me, the characters don't, just dun steal my fic or I'll cry *pouts* And then my muses will come after you with a vengeance *evil smirk*
Note: All right, I've been wanting to write a SM/FY fic for a long time now so here it is. Don't be surprised if the chappies to this one are produced a lot faster than other fics. I get bored with just writing SM/GW or SM/DBZ so *shrugs* I started another one. I'm bad *blushes* Anyway, I have no idea where this is gonna head, I'm just makin it up as I go (which is the case with most if not ALL of my fics. keeps me interested in writing *shrugs*.) Expect lots of plot twists *evil smirk* I'll keep ya on your toes with em, I promise *smiles kawaiily*. And don't get mad when I leave ya with cliffhangers cuz it's gonna happen. That is, if anyone even reads this sides my Imouto-chans and Oneesans *shrugs* Well, on to the story. oh yeah, email me at pokahydee@hotmail.com
Chapter 4 - Jealous?
"I know that voice." Usagi whispered as a fear-stricken look crossed her face. "He's. one of them." She said as her finger narrowed as closely as possible on Suboshi. It was amazing how much sharper her senses had become now that she wasn't able to see.
Nuriko looked toward the young man Usagi pointed to and frowned slightly. The young man was already out the door and running toward the forest. Nuriko took a step forward, intent on going after the guy that had hurt Usagi.
"Matte Nuriko." Hotohori's soft voice broke into Nuriko's thoughts. "Let him go, he won't be so bold now."
"Demo-" Nuriko started but was cut off by Hotohori.
"I said, let him go. We can't be sure there aren't more of them waiting in the forest." Hotohori said calmly. Nuriko frowned deeply, but nodded in agreement. He couldn't bring danger to Usagi or Suzako no Miko, and of course he couldn't put Hotohori in danger. Even though it was obvious Hotohori loved Suzako no Miko, Nuriko still cared about him and wanted to make sure he was safe.
"Fine." Nuriko said as he crossed his arms over his chest. "Let's just go back to our room." The small gray kitten had decided to take a seat on Nuriko's shoulder and lay perched upon him sound asleep.
"Hai." Hotohori replied with a nod of his head. He walked over to Miaka and Usagi and spoke in a slow even voice. "Are the two of you finished eating?" There was a nod from both of the girls, but Usagi wasn't able to shake the feeling of dread in the pit of her stomach. "Let's retire for the evening, it's starting to get late."
"He was one of them. the ones that brought me here. it had to be him." Usagi said solemnly as she looked down at the floor, though she didn't see the floor.
"Here Usagi." Hotohori said as he took the blond girl's hands and began to lead her toward the stairs. She tripped a few times over chairs and floorboards so Hotohori decided he'd just carry her the rest of the way. He didn't notice the blush that touched Usagi's cheeks after he did this, though.
****
Suboshi cursed quietly to himself as he retreated to the safety of the forest. He knew he should have used the clam. How could he have known that girl was capable of recognizing a voice? Next time he'd have to be more careful.
"How did she know it was me?" He asked himself as he slammed his fist into a nearby tree. "Will those Suzako Seishi come after me?" He wondered out loud as he rubbed his throbbing fist. He made his way through the forest, heading for the small camp he had set up earlier. He heard dog barking as he approached the small camp and smirked slightly. Next time he'd make her come to him. He already had a plan. "Nakago said to wait for him, but I want answers. I can handle this, then Nakago will know I'm capable of more important missions."
****
Usagi was sitting in the window of their room with her face toward the sky. She felt a chill breeze come through the window and shivered involuntarily. She wanted to see the moon. Whenever she looked at the moon, she felt reassured that things would work out right. It was like her mother was trying to send her motivation and contentment.
"What are you looking at?" Nuriko asked, forgetting for the moment that Usagi couldn't see.
"I'm looking at the moon, at least. where it should be." Usagi said quietly as she stared out the window. Nuriko frowned slightly, he wanted to help her; he just wasn't sure what he could do. Diana had really seemed to grow attached to Nuriko; she still sat on his shoulder, purring quietly.
"Don't worry Usagi-sama, we'll find a way home soon." Diana said as she jumped from Nuriko's shoulder to Usagi's. Usagi smiled slightly at the gray kitten, always such an optimist.
"Do you miss ChibiUsa?" Usagi asked the kitten. Diana jumped from Usagi's shoulder to her hands that opened for the kitten.
"Hai, what do you think ChibiUsa is doing right now?" Diana asked as she stared up at Usagi.
"I'm not sure, but I have to get Mamo-chan back soon. If they hurt him I'll. I'll never be able to forgive myself." Usagi said quietly as a tear slid from her cerulean blue eye.
Nuriko was a little surprised. It was strange to see a kitten carry on an intelligent conversation with a person. It was strange to see a cat talk at all, even to Miaka.
"I've never heard of a cat that talked." Miaka had said earlier after Usagi's explanation. "Even if her friend IS a genius, I don't think she could make a cat talk."
I'm going to get some answers from her soon. Nuriko thought to himself. I can't force them out of her though. She's from Miaka's world so does that make her a Miko?
****
Ami was sitting on the steps at Rei's temple, typing quickly on a keyboard. Makoto sat beside her with a cup of tea in her hand. The rest of the Senshi had broken up into groups to search for Usagi, but there was no sign of her anyway.
"Mamoru's on!" Ami cried as a name popped up on her instant messenger.
WaterGoddess: Mamoru, we have a problem! TuxKamen: oh? WaterGoddess: Usagi's disappeared. TuxKamen: O.O nani!?! where is she? did she leave a note? WaterGoddess: No one knows where she is. She went for a walk last night and never came back. We've formed search parties and everyone's searching.
"Let me talk to him!" Makoto interrupted, trying to push Ami's hands away from the keyboard.
"Matte!" Ami snapped as she gently slapped Makoto's hand.
TuxKamen: is it a new enemy? WaterGoddess: From what we've gathered it doesn't seem likely. If it was, we've seen no sign that it was. TuxKamen: kuso. i'm coming to Japan. WaterGoddess: Don't, we can handle this. You need to focus on your school, you can't just leave. I'll keep you posted on updates all right? TuxKamen: hai, if it is a new enemy, i'm coming to protect Usako WaterGoddess: Hai, Ja ne WaterGoddess has signed off.
"Now what do we do?" Makoto asked as Ami closed the laptop. Ami had been looking through police reports to see if anyone had been brought in. When she'd come up with none, she decided that they'd join in the search for Usagi.
"Come on, we're going to look for Usagi-chan too."
****
Usagi awoke the next morning and cuddled against the warmth to her left. It was like a little heater was in her bed, she assumed it was ChibiUsa. The little girl would curl up with Usagi every now and then when she had nightmares. At first it had taken Usagi by surprise and she'd shoved ChibiUsa out of her bed, but now it was almost a comfort. ChibiUsa missed her parents, and she missed Mamoru greatly so at least they had each other.
"Eh?" A soft voice questioned as two arms wrapped around his waist. Nuriko's eyes went wide when he realized that Usagi was lying in HIS bed. He blinked a few times as he saw a smile cross her lips.
"Bad dream ChibiUsa-chan?" She questioned sleepily, her eyes still closed.
"ChibiUsa?" Nuriko questioned, a confused look on his face. Hmm. who's ChibiUsa? Better yet, who's this 'Mamo-chan' she was mumbling about all night?
"Don't worry ChibiUsa-chan, you can go back to sleep, I'll stay here." Usagi soft voice continued. Nuriko could see she was still half-asleep and hadn't realized who he was yet. He lay back down and let her cuddle up against him. This girl sure was strange, he'd thought Miaka was strange but Usagi really took the cake. Are all the people from Miaka's world weird like this? Nuriko silently wondered as Usagi's breathing deepened and she fell back asleep.
Hotohori sat up and rubbed the sleep from his eyes. He'd heard Usagi mumbling something in her sleep and glanced toward the blond's voice. He was slightly surprised when he saw Usagi lying in Nuriko's bed with her arms wrapped around him. He blinked several times at the picture, wondering if Nuriko even knew she was there. He probably wouldn't be too pleased; hopefully Usagi would wake up first.
"Hotohori?" A quiet voice asked from the side.
"Ne?" He asked as he turned toward Miaka.
"Do you think we'll find another Suzako Seishi today?" Miaka asked, her eyes looked sad as she hugged her knees.
"I'm hoping. The sooner we find them, the sooner we can save Yui ne?" Hotohori said as he tried to comfort the young girl. He walked over and sat on the edge of her bed and pulled her into a hug. She was slightly surprised; it showed on her face. He pulled away from the hug and smiled at Miaka.
"Hai!" She said as a smile broke out across her face. "Then I can see Tamahome again too!" Hotohori smiled at her, but he felt sad that she had chosen Tamahome over him. Hotohori would do anything for her happiness, and he would protect her with his life. That's how great his love for her was.
Usagi stirred again, this time she stretched her arms and yawned loudly. She blinked her eyes a few times and rubbed them with her hands. A confused look crossed her face as she tried to focus her vision.
"Nani? What's wrong with my eyes?" She wondered quietly to herself. "ChibiUsa, turn the light on ne?" She said as she rolled over and pulled the blanket with her.
"I'm not ChibiUsa." A feminine voice purred into her ear. Usagi's eyes popped back open as she snatched the pillow from under her head. She swung the pillow and effectively knocked Nuriko off the bed and onto the floor.
"Hentai!" Usagi yelled as she clutched the pillow tightly, ready to swing again if necessary.
"Baka!!" The voice growled as Nuriko sat up and rubbed his head. His eyes narrowed on Usagi and he snatched the pillow from her hands, the smacked her in the face with it. Usagi fell back against the wall, a dazed look on her face.
"I guess yesterday wasn't a dream ne?" Usagi asked as she rubbed her head where she'd hit the wall.
"No, it wasn't a dream." Nuriko said dryly.
"What are you doing in my bed, Nuriko?!" Usagi demanded angrily.
"Your bed? Don't you mean my bed?" Nuriko asked as he crossed his arms over his chest.
"Eh? Your bed?" Usagi questioned, a puzzled look on her face. Nuriko sighed and let his arms drop to his sides.
"Hai, you were here when I woke up." Nuriko said as he helped Usagi to her feet. She rubbed her eyes gingerly.
"I miss ChibiUsa-chan." Usagi said quietly, more to herself than anyone in particular.
"Who's ChibiUsa?" Miaka questioned as she stood up and walked toward Usagi.
"She's my, ummm, imouto." Usagi said nervously. It was best to keep the fact that ChibiUsa was her future daughter to herself. Especially when she was in ancient China, according to Miaka.
"Oh, I was just wondering, I heard you talking about her last night." Miaka said with a smile.
"Honto?" Usagi asked, a sweatdrop on her forehead. She hated when she was caught talking in her sleep; it was so embarrassing.
"Hurry and dress so we can continue on our way." Hotohori said a few minutes later.
"Hai!" Usagi and Miaka answered in unison. Usagi only had one outfit to wear, she'd borrowed some of Miaka's pajamas the night before but she was forced to put the hot dress back on. There was one other thing she could wear but that could be bad. The skirt was a little short and Miaka might be a little shocked.
"Hey Usagi, where did you get this dress?" Miaka asked as she helped Usagi get dressed. Nuriko and Hotohori had gone down to get the horses ready for their departure.
"Huh? My dress?" Usagi questioned. She hadn't even really thought of it. "My mom made it for me a long time ago." She improvised.
"Is it for your wedding?" Miaka asked as she fingered the silky fabric.
"You could say that." Usagi said as another sweatdrop appeared on the back of her head. A few minutes later there was a soft knock on the door.
"Coming!" Miaka cried as she hoisted her backpack and slung it over her arm. "This way Usagi-chan!" She grabbed Usagi's hand and led her toward the door, making sure she didn't trip on anything. Miaka opened the door to reveal Hotohori and Nuriko.
"Are we all ready to leave?" Hotohori asked with a smile. Usagi and Miaka both nodded with huge smiles on their faces. Nuriko walked through the door and scooped Usagi up in his arms. She blushed immediately and squirmed.
"I can walk, you know." She said as she put her nose in the air and crossed her arms over her chest. Nuriko laughed to himself.
"I'd love to see you fall over another stool." Nuriko said jokingly. Usagi puffed up her pink cheeks indignantly.
"It's not my fault that jerk put it in the middle of the floor!" Usagi countered.
"Heh, it was under his feet." Nuriko said with a smirk. Usagi fumed quietly but didn't say anything. "Don't get all pissed, princess, it was just a joke." Usagi's eyes flew open when he called her princess. Did he know? Had Diana slipped? She had been spending an awful lot of time with him. "What, you don't like my nickname?" He questioned when he saw the surprised look.
"It's not that, I was just thinking of something." Usagi said quietly. Nuriko's smile faded as Usagi grew solemn. Maybe he shouldn't have called her 'princess' after all. It had just kind of slipped out, though.
****
Usagi sighed heavily and leaned back against Nuriko. They had been riding for hours and she was bored out of her mind. She knew Mamoru was in trouble, but there wasn't anything she could do from her current position. She didn't even know where to start looking. Even if she knew where he was, how would she get there? She still couldn't see anything and she didn't know anything about the countryside. She only knew what the country was called because she overheard Miaka saying something about Konan country.
"What are you thinking about?" Nuriko asked Usagi as an arm wrapped loosely around her waist to balance her.
"Hmm? Oh. nothing." She said quietly. The smile on Nuriko's face faded. He didn't know how to deal with this girl. At times she was so much like Miaka he thought he'd end up strangling her, but other times she was so solemn and lost. Stupid girls. He thought to himself. He knew he was mostly a woman, but there were still traits about him that made him a man. Though he looked, sounded, and acted like a woman, he thought more like a man than he did as a woman. He was good at pretending that his thoughts were those of a woman's though. He was even able to fool himself at times.
"Can we take a break?" Miaka whined from up ahead. Hotohori and Nuriko agreed so they stopped near a small lake with a river running through it.
Nuriko jumped down off of the horse and put his hands on Usagi's waist to help her down. Her hands immediately searched for his shoulders so she could balance herself. He lifted her off the horse and set her gently on the ground beside him.
"Meow." A soft noise begged from the horse's back.
"Heh, sorry koneko." Nuriko said with a smile as he picked up the kitten and set her on Usagi's shoulder.
"Where are we?" Usagi asked as Nuriko took her hands and began to lead her toward the lake.
"We're just taking a break. Be careful, though, there's a lake right in front of you. We wouldn't want you to fall in the water and drown." Nuriko said jokingly. Usagi stuck her tongue out at him and reached her hand down to tickle him. Nuriko burst into a fit of giggles and took a few steps backward. His heel fell into a hole that sent him off balance. He fell backward and landed on his butt in the lake. Usagi heard the splash and Nuriko's angry growl and immediately broke into a fit of giggles.
"Now who's the klutz!" Usagi teased as she giggled happily. She didn't notice the hand that grabbed her wrist until it was too late. She went sprawling forward into the lake with a splash. Nuriko lifted her face out of the water to hear her sputtering.
"That's what you get kid." Nuriko said as he ruffled her wet hair, affectivity messing up the matching buns.
"Hey! No fair!" Usagi cried as she tackled Nuriko into the water again. She laughed loudly and pulled at the end of Nuriko's braid, stealing the tie. "Ha ha! I win!" She cried as she felt around for the shore and run up into the grass. She turned around and stuck her tongue out at Nuriko. Nuriko trudged up onto shore and wrung his hair out.
"I'll get you back, kid." Nuriko said with a smirk. "This isn't over yet."
Usagi had already pulled both of the ties from her buns. Her wet golden tresses fell down around her face and shoulders and hung nearly to the ground. She grabbed the end of her hair and began to wring the water out as best she could; she was failing miserably though. Her white dress was soaked all the way through and was slightly translucent. It clung to her body indecently similar to her dress as NeoQueen Serenity.
"It's going to take hours for this to dry!" Usagi whined as she tried to get some of the water out of the skirt. Nuriko laughed quietly at the girl.
"Take it easy kid, just put this on." Nuriko said as he tossed a simple kimono to her. Hotohori had bought it for Miaka in one of the markets earlier during the trip. Usagi caught the cloth and fingered it carefully. It was made of silk; it felt smooth against her skin when she touched the sleeves and sash.
"Demo-" Usagi started as she blushed.
"Don't worry, Hotohori and Miaka aren't around." Nuriko said as he plopped down on the ground with his arms crossed over his chest.
"I can't change with you here." Usagi said hesitantly. Usagi gasped when she heard Nuriko start to laugh.
"Don't worry kid, I'm gay. I'm in love with Hotohori." Nuriko explained with a carefree look.
"Honto?" Usagi questioned, her brows wrinkled.
"Hai hai. Now get out of those wet clothes, you're going to get sick." He said as he stood and walked over to her. He spun her around and unzipped the dress in one quick movement.
"Hentai!" Usagi shrieked as she swung her arms at Nuriko, and missed terribly.
"Hai hai." Nuriko mumbled as he wrapped the kimono around Usagi and quickly tied the sash around her waist. Usagi shivered involuntarily as the cold silk touched her skin. "I'll build a fire ne?" Usagi nodded, her cheeks still flaming red.
"We're back!" Miaka called as she came running toward the small fire. Nuriko was sitting on one side in just his pants and Usagi sat on the other in Miaka's kimono. Usagi was staring at the cup in her hands, her thoughts elsewhere. "Helllloooo!!! Usaaaagggiiiii!!!" Miaka called as she waved her hand back and forth in front of Usagi's face.
"Nani?!" Usagi jumped as she felt the breeze from Miaka's hand and heard the high-pitched screech from the girl. Usagi promptly fell backward and hit her head on the ground. "Itai!" She whined as she held her head. "Don't sneak up on me like that!" Usagi growled at Miaka. There was a sweatdrop Miaka's forehead as she stood in front of Usagi.
"Hehe, gomen Usagi-chan!" Miaka said as she rubbed the back of my head. "I forgot you couldn't see me."
"Well, don't forget again!" Usagi said as she pouted and rubbed her head.
"Where did you go?" Nuriko asked when Hotohori sat down by the fire.
"There was someone on the road we stopped to talk to." Hotohori explained.
"Any luck?" Nuriko asked calmly.
"Iie." He replied.
"Ne Miaka?" Usagi questioned as she turned in the direction Miaka had been last.
"Hai?" Miaka replied curiously.
"What are you looking for anyway?" Usagi asked as she tilted her head to the side.
"We're looking for the rest of the Suzako Seishi." Miaka said proudly. "We've already found four of them!"
"How many are there?" Usagi asked, thinking of her own Senshi at home. They must be so worried about her. And ChibiUsa must be out of her mind with both Mamoru and her missing.
"Seven, but." Miaka paused for a minute and looked down at the ground.
"But?" Usagi inquired, wondering why Miaka had stopped.
"The Seiryuu Seishi have Tamahome." Miaka replied sadly.
"Tamahome?" Usagi questioned. Since she wasn't able to see Miaka's facial expressions, she was unable to see the sadness on her face. She had sensed a change in Miaka's voice though. She seemed sad. "Do you. love him?" Usagi asked after having sensed the sadness. Miaka was silent for a few seconds.
"Hai."
Usagi frowned slightly and nodded her head. She knew what it was like to be away from the one she loved. She knew what it was like more than most people. She had been separated from her prince for a thousand years and when they finally found each other again, their memories had been erased. Mamoru hadn't remembered her at all after Beryl; he didn't even remember the blond middle schooler he would always pick on. Then he'd gone to America and they were separated again. This time by an ocean. it hadn't dimmed her feelings for him, though. She would treasure the time they spent together all the more. Like the saying goes "Absence makes the heart grow fonder." That was definitely true in Mamoru and Usagi's case.
~Usako.~ A familiar voice whispered near Usagi's ear. Usagi lifted her head at the voice and spun around immediately.
"Mamo-chan." She whispered as she looked out into the forest with blind eyes. She stood up and turned toward the forest, trying to hear a leaf rustle or a twig snap.
"Usagi?" Nuriko questioned as he saw the girl rise to her feet. Before anyone could react, Usagi took off into the forest. "Matte!!"
"Mamo-chan!! Where are you!?!" Usagi cried as she ran through the forest. Branches slashed across her face and legs but still she pushed herself to run faster. Surprisingly, though, she didn't run into any trees or trip on any tree roots.
"Usagi come back!!" Nuriko shouted as he ran after the blond. No matter how fast he ran, he was unable to keep up, though. He was aware of Hotohori and Miaka running after him, but his focus was solely on Usagi.
"Mamo-chan!! Wait for me!!" Usagi cried as she ran, following the voice.
~You're almost there Usako.~ Mamoru soft voice coaxed Usagi on through the forest.
"O-negai Mamo-chan!" Usagi cried as tears streamed down her face. "Matte!!"
~The clearing. I'm in the clearing.~ The voice said softly.
Usagi ran into a small clearing in the forest. She didn't know how she knew it was a clearing, maybe it was the sun beating down on her, maybe it was the soft breeze. It didn't matter how she knew, she just seemed to sense it. There. standing in the clearing was a man with black hair and warm blue eyes. She took a few steps forward and reached her hand out, searching for the man she loved.
Nuriko was following closely behind Usagi and was surprised when she stopped in the clearing. He ran up beside her and was shocked to see a man with black hair and blue eyes standing in the middle of the clearing. He held a red rose in one hand and had a white mask over his eyes. Is this the one she calls 'Mamo-chan'? Nuriko thought to himself as his eyes narrowed on the man.
"It's you Mamo-chan." Usagi said through her tears. "You're really here."
"Hai Usako, I'm here." His voice was soft and gentle as his arms wrapped around her waist. He pulled Usagi into an embrace and nuzzled his face into her neck.
"I'm so glad you're safe." Usagi said as she buried her face in his chest. "I was so worried, I thought they were going to kill you."
"Don't worry Usako, I'm here now." Mamoru said. "I'll protect you from them."
Nuriko watched the scene in surprise. He was almost angry with the guy with black hair. She was so worried about him, why didn't he show up sooner? Instead this guy just lets Usagi worry and then pops up out of nowhere. Nuriko frowned deeply and crossed his arms over his chest. Something didn't feel quite right here. How could this guy get away from the Seiryuu Seishi alone when he couldn't before?
"Now we can go home to ChibiUsa." Usagi said happily as she lay in Mamoru's arms.
"Chibi. Usa.?"
::Fin::
September 12, 2002
Okay, sorry for the long wait, MAJOR writers block. For months now I haven't really been able to write anything. A few weeks ago I sat down and watched FY again until like the episode when Nuriko died *sniff* I HATE that episode, it's too sad. Anyway, I'm not sure how fast the chappies are gonna be produced here so I wrote a lengthy one. I'd rather write a long chappie then write two short ones *shrugs* Anyway, please review or email me at pokahydee@hotmail.com. Anyway, I'll update whenever I can find the time, sorry if it's not too soon.