Warning, more spoilers on FF10. Warning u now.
To help some of u out, I don't believe I'll make this a Tidus/Setsuna. I was thinking of doing so, but I don't know. If u have any recommendations, feel free to state them. Ty for loving my story. Also, I added Tidus, because I felt sorry for him. He's a handsome guy, and ends up nothing, so I thought he deserved a chance. Also, to get this out, this story has one more chapter. I've had this story fin for a while, just been editing it and all. I'm working on something, since I kind of end things badly, but u'll see wat I mean next chap. Well bye for now.
Chapter Sixteen
Squall Leonhart believed he would never get used to feeling torn in two. In his past, he couldn't remember a time, when he felt at a loss. Ever since he met that fairy woman, his life had been turned upside down. Nothing was the same anymore, and he felt as if it never would be again.
Taking the straw between his index finger, and thumb, he guided it to his mouth. As he sucked at his strawberry milkshake, he faintly wished Bask-n-robins served coffee. Shifting in his seat, he directed his gaze to the man sitting across from him.
"Tidus what kind of world did you come from?"
The blond haired young man dropped his spoon into his bowl of ice cream, and frowned. He propped his elbows up on the tabletop, and tilted his head slightly. "I don't really know. The world I did live in, I was the star player for the Zanarkand Abes. We played Blitz ball, it's a really cool game, but I wont bore you with the details."
He scooped his spoon into his banana split, and tasted it. Satisfied with the taste, he set his spoon back down in his bowl. "My father and mother were long gone, so I grew up with Auron. But then one night during a game, this creature came, and attacked us. He was called Sin."
He paused, to cross his arms over his chest, and thought about what happened after that. "I was brought to another world, one similar to yours Squall. I met up with a few people, Rikku, Wakka, Lulu, Kimahri and Yuna. Yuna was a summoner. She was supposed to sacrifice her life in order to kill Sin. We found another way to kill him though."
He stopped there, his face twisting into pain as he thought about the last moments he had, had with Yuna. "I found out, that the world I had come from was a dream, and that I didn't exist."
Squall dropped his gaze, and didn't ask any more questions about the young man's past. A squeal pierced the air, and he dared himself to look up. Lifting his gaze, he spotted a group of girls heading their way.
From where he sat, he found Usagi's eyes watching him, and he smirked. As the girls came closer, he saw her cheeks were flushed with excitement. She grinned, her face lighting up, before she blew him a kiss, and turned to her friend Setsuna.
Hotaru skipped up to his side, and tugged at his sleeve. "Squall kun, can I have money to buy candy?"
She pointed to the small store nearby, filled with every candy possible. He smiled ruefully, suddenly forgetting about his past, and the future to come. He reached into his pocket, withdrawing a few yen, and handed her what he took out. She broke out into a grin, and raced off to the store.
As if their earlier conversation never happened, Tidus asked, "Did you meet a fairy on your way to this world?" Squall looked over at the blond, and nodded grimly. "Yes, but I also just saw her recently."
"Really?"
Tidus ran a hand through his blond hair. "That fairy tricked me into coming here. The next time I see her, I'm going to let her have it." Squall shook his head, "She tricked me as well. But if it wasn't for her, I'd have never have met Usagi."
He stared at the blonde girl he was talking about. As if hearing her name, she looked up, and flashed him a smile, that made his heart seize in his chest for a brief second.
Tidus wrinkled his nose, "So you like her, right? But what about that girl you have back at home? Rin... something."
Squall shook his head regretfully, and turned his gaze to the entrance of the candy store. Hotaru skipped out merrily, with a large lollypop that was bigger than her mouth. He chuckled, as the dark haired girl reached his side, "Squall kun, artigato!!!" Turning in his seat, he bent over, and let her kiss his cheek, before she rushed off to join Haruka and Michiru.
"I did love Rinoa, but its no the same as I feel about Usagi. I don't know, whenever I'm with Usagi, I feel complete. With Rinoa, I felt like myself, but at ease. I know I love Usagi more."
Tidus shrugged, "whatever you say man." Haruka dropped down into the empty seat next to Squall, and asked calmly, "How are you two boys fairing?" Squall replied flippantly, "Fine. What happened to Michiru?" The tall blonde pointed to the group of girls, which Michiru had joined. Tidus chuckled, "Girl talk?"
Haruka nodded, a bored expression o n her face, before it vanished, and was replaced with curiosity. "So what were you two talking about before I so rudely interrupted?"
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Usagi gnawed on her bottom lip nervously. Uneasily, she crossed her arms over her chest, and glanced in Squall's direction. He was watching her, and she couldn't help but smile. He always seemed to make her feel happy, even in stressful situations.
She returned her gaze to Minako, who was chatting away with Makoto. She sighed again, but was startled out of her thoughts, when someone touched her shoulder. "Is something the matter hime?" Looking up, she studied the senshi of time, before she decided she needed to tell someone.
"Guys can we split up in groups?"
Minako nodded, "Sure. Hey Makoto lets go check out that new store they're opening up." Makoto slammed a fist into her palm, "All right!"
The cheery blonde flashed the girl's a victory sign, "All right then it's settled." Squall, Tidus and Haruka stopped from joining the group of girls. Uneasily, Haruka asked the question that was on all three of their minds, "What's settled?"
Minako giggled, and flipped her loose blonde hair from her shoulder, as she replied airily, "You guys are going to go shopping for Tidus. Makoto and I are going this way. Meet you back in the food court in two hours."
Minako didn't wait for answers, but grabbed Makoto's arm, and took off in the direction they had come from.
Squall watched the two girls push their way through the crowded mall, and couldn't help but shake his head. Those two had way too much energy. Turning to the rest of the group, he asked, "What's this about shopping for Tidus?" He directed his gaze on Usagi, waiting expectantly for an answer.
Setsuna replied evenly, "Tidus will need a new wardrobe. I believe it would be best, if you two help him find something decent to wear. His...um, Zanark...abes uniform wont do." She pointed at the outfit he wore, and she pursed her lips in distaste.
Frowning, Tidus looked down at his clothes, and asked hotly, "What wrong with my clothes?" Haruka looked at him, and shook her head with amusement, "Just about everything. Come on Squall, I think we can handle this chore."
Squall nodded, and replied, "This won't take two hours, but all right." He reluctantly turned from the group of girls, and followed Haruka and Tidus through the mall.
Michiru followed close behind Setsuna and Usagi, as they headed for a secluded area in the mall.
Usagi took a seat on an empty bench, and crossed her arms over her middle. "Setsuna, something's wrong." The senshi of time took a seat next to her, and placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "What's wrong?"
The blonde shook her head, as if it was helpless. "I don't know. It's in the pit of my stomach, and I can just feel it there. It's something horrible." Michiru sat down on the other side of her. "Do you think it might be Jadeite? Do you think he's coming back, while we are here?"
The blonde nodded, "hai, that and something else. Something with Squall. Oh kami something's going to happen to Squall!" She went to leap from the bench, but the two older women held her back.
Suddenly a scream hit the air, and an explosion followed close behind.
All three stood, and faced the direction the screams had come from.
"I hate it when I'm right."
They watched as a pack of youmas worked their way towards them.
"Ready?"
"Hai."
"Hai!"
They shouted out their transformations phrases at the same time. Instantly they transformed into Sailor Pluto, Sailor Neptune, and Sailor Moon.
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Minako squealed with delight, as she stared at the dress on display. "Its so beautiful!" She turned to Makoto, who was also drooling over the same dress. It was gorgeous, with many layers of blue satin, and silvery silk.
Minako lifted the dress from where it hung, and held it up against her body. "I have to have it!" Makoto looked at the tag, and nearly dropped to the floor in a faint, "way to much for my bank account!"
Suddenly they heard a scream. Startled, the two rushed from the store, and saw a pack of youmas heading towards them. "Damn I knew this day was too good to be true."
"Ready?"
"Hai."
They raised their wands, and shouted the words. Instantly, they transformed into Sailor Jupiter, and Sailor Venus.
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"So what do you guys think?"
Haruka and Squall glanced at Tidus, who had emerged from the fitting room. He spun around, and held out his arms in questioning. Squall replied, "Not bad." He glanced over the black slacks, and dressy dark blue shirt.
Haruka shrugged, "Whatever fits." She tugged on a strand of Hotaru's hair, and the child giggled. "He's handsome."
Tidus grinned, "all right I'll take it." He was cut off, when a scream sliced through the air.
Squall jumped from the seat he was sitting in, and whipped around. All the while saying, "Haruka..."
She nodded, and she pulled out the wand she had, and shouted her transformation. Squall withdrew his sword, and ordered Tidus to hide.
Sailor Uranus and Squall rushed out of the store, and faced the line of youmas coming their way.
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"Sailor Moon stay back."
Both Pluto, and Neptune leaped at the approaching youmas. Gasping, Usagi shouted, "Pluto, Neptune don't!" She took a step forward, but a sharp glaive blocked her path. "Iie Sailor Moon. Leave this battle to us."
Sailor Saturn rushed out after the two older senshi, leaving Usagi alone to watch.
Sailor Neptune crouched down, propelling herself up over the youma's head shouting, "Submarine Reflection!" From the mirror she held in both hands, a torrent of water shot out. Three youmas were knocked flat on their back by the blast of cold water.
Sailor Neptune landed on her feet, and readied herself for her next attack. Pluto slid into line with her, and raised her staff high, "Dead Scream." A ball of light shot forth from the end of her staff, and slammed into the fallen youmas.
"Neptune Deep Submerge!" A blast much like Pluto's, shot forward, and slammed into the remaining youmas. More appeared, replacing the last set, and the two senshi, panted from exhaustion.
"Death Ribbon Revolution!"
Both senshi watched in awe, as ribbons burst from the ground they stood on, and wrapped around the mob of youmas before them. The youma cried out, before their bodies burned, turning into fine dust.
Turning, Pluto looked at the youngest senshi, and smiled warmly, "Welcome back Sailor Saturn."
The young girl, smiled brightly, and leaned against the glaive she held.
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Sailor Venus cried out, when she was thrown back by an unexpected blast. She flipped herself around, and landed smoothly on her feet. Throwing her hand up, she tested an old attack. "Crescent Beam Shower!" A crescent moon touched the palm of her hand, and shot out in several streams of bright light.
She watched with satisfaction, as the youmas stared in awe, as a beam flew at their chest. Then explosions rocked the ground, as each light ignited itself. The smoke cleared, just in time to reveal the new line of youmas.
Grunting, she ran forward, just as a familiar voice at her right shouted, "Jupiter Oak Evolution!"
Jupiter spun around, flinging green leaves in all directions. Venus had to stop, and duck, to keep herself from being hit.
Three of the youmas got away, and attacked Venus at all sides. Gritting her teeth, she muttered, "I don't think so." Raising her hand, she shouted, "Venus Love and Beauty Shock!" The attack wrapped around the three surrounding her, and giving them the shock of their life. Dust littered the floor around her.
Jupiter landed at her side, and muttered in bewilderment, "They keep coming. We need to find the others."
Venus looked up, just as a bright light caught her eye. Inhaling sharply, she whipped around, and shoved the strong senshi of Jupiter out of the way. Startled Jupiter stumbled on her feet, falling back, and hit the ground, as the large blast of energy slammed in Venus.
"VENUS IIE!!"
The blonde senshi was thrown into the wall behind her, and it shattered from the force. Her limb body landed inside the small clothes store. Climbing to her feet, Jupiter stumbled after her friend, and fellow senshi.
A sound at her right caused her to pause. Looking up, she spotted a girl. She instantly recognized the uniform as one closely related to hers. Ankle boots, short shirt, bows, but with short gloves, much like Uranus's.
"Another Sailor Senshi? But I thought..."
The girl smirked, and crossed her arms over her chest. "Oak Evolution!"
"Nani!" She dove to the ground barely dodging her own attack sent at her. Jumping, she faced the girl, and shouted, "What are you doing? I'm not the enemy, the youmas are!"
She girl chuckled walking forward, "You think so?"
Frowning Jupiter asked, "Are you, one of Galaxies...one of them?" The girl shook her head, but the evil glint in her eyes never faltered. "Iie, but I had been captured by her. That witch destroyed my planet, and took my star seed." Her lips twisted into hatred, and she growled ruthlessly, "And I was left here all alone, as a floating star. My body was gone!"
Inclining her head, she raised her hand into the air. "But then my master came, and gave me my body back. So I must repay him for what he did for me." She lowered her hand before her face, and shouted, "Love and Beauty Shock!" She kissed her fingers, mimicking Venus's attack. She threw the heart energy at Jupiter, who didn't have enough time to get over her initial shock, to move out of the way.
She cried out, falling backwards, and hitting the ground hard. She skidded across the floor, rolling onto her stomach, then back onto her back. Lifting her head from the ground, she stared at the senshi, "H...How?"
"I live on a planet cast in shadows. My people, and I were created from the shadows, and survive off the shadows. Here, I survive off the shadows, the senshi's shadows. Have you ever wondered why you never felt alone?"
"You?" Jupiter struggled to her feet, wincing in pain. The girl nodded, "Hai it was I. I took your shadow's energy, every senshi's shadow's energy. I'm Sailor Shadow, and now it is time to meet your demise."
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"World Shaking!" Uranus dropped to the floor, breathing heavily. "We can't keep them back forever." Squall nodded, as he studied the youmas collecting themselves around them. "Yea I know." He scowled, as he searched the surrounding area.
Suddenly a flash blinded them all, and someone let out a yell. Whipping around, Squall watched with fascination, as Tidus, raced passed them, holding a long blue blade. He flipped over, slashing his blade down, before flipping backwards, bringing his blade up.
The young boy jumped back panting, "See, I'm not as useless as you thought." The group turned their gaze to the youmas. Ten of them were left of the large number there had been before.
Smirking, Squall nodded his thanks, and faced the youmas. Raising his blade, he raced towards them. Tidus followed close behind. They drew their blades upon the youmas, cutting them into pieces. When the last youma crumbled to dust, they heard the terrified scream.
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Usagi shrieked, when something appeared before her, and grabbed at her. She stumbled back, another scream rising from her throat. She heard her fellow senshi call her name, but the ground around her uplifted, forming a dome like wall.
Two hands came from the shadows, wrapping long fingers around her slender throat. Her cry for help was cut off, as the fingers began to squeeze. She kicked, and squirmed, trying to break herself free.
"Good job Sailor Shadow. You decapitated Jupiter and Venus." Tears rushed to Usagi's eyes. "Iie, what did you do to them?" She clawed at the fingers. A face came out of the shadows, and she recognized the Sailor Senshi uniform, but not the senshi. "I got rid of them, so that my master could get what he wants. To get rid of you."
Usagi cried out, unable to breath, unable to think. The Senshi that held her threw her into the wall of the dome, and she was able to breathe again. She crumpled to the floor gasping. Looking up, she stared at the girl, "But why? You're a Sailor Senshi. Your duty is to protect, not harm!"
She stared the senshi down, hatred towards the traitor swelling within her. Shadow seemed unaffected, "A Life for a Life. My duty ended when Galaxy betrayed her senshi, and destroyed my home."
Horrified, Usagi asked, "You were one of her Animates?" Shadow shook her head, casting a gaze to Jadeite, who watched with amusement. "She took my star seed, and destroyed my body, because I wouldn't join her. And when she died, killed by you, I was left here! Here on this ungrateful planet, as some floating rock!"
She stared at Jadeite, her eyes growing misty for such a brief second, that Usagi almost thought she had imagined it. "But my master saved me. He gave me my body back, and a second chance." Shadow looked back at Usagi, who was still sitting on the floor. "My duty is over as a senshi, and now I work for the dark kingdom, under Jadeite's power."
Usagi shook her head, "What about your sworn duty!" Her voice wasn't her own, in fact, she felt as if she wasn't even in her own body any more. She rose to her feet, her hands clenched at her sides. "When you took on the duty as a Sailor Senshi, you swore to protect all that was good. Do you take that back now?"
Both Jadeite, and Shadow paused, studying her with a strange interest. The senshi they had trapped was changing before them, and her body was glowing.
Usagi looked from one to the other, before she pointed threateningly at Sailor Shadow. "You have betrayed your people, your home, and also your fellow senshi." Her eyes hardened on the senshi before her. "You will be punished for your crimes, for taking back what you have sworn to uphold."
She pulled out her staff, and held it out before her.
Shadow shook herself from her trance, "I don't care anymore." She pressed her fingers together, forming a gun, "Fire Soul!"
Taking her staff, Usagi hit the ball of flame, knocking it from her. Shadow scowled with annoyance. "Not surprised I see. Well let's see about this one." She reached up to her tiara, "Tiara Action!"
Taking a step back, Usagi gasped as her own attack came after her. She dove to the ground, and rolled out of the way, as a blast of water hit where she once was. She jumped to her feet, only to have Venus's chain slam into her chest. She cried out hitting the wall.
"Usagi!!!"
She could hear them outside the dome, trying to break through. Clenching her teeth, she had to stall Shadow, and Jadeite, till the others could come and help her. She struggled to her feet, and rushed Shadow. The senshi gasped, stepping back, only to have Usagi ram her shoulder into the girl's gut. They hit the ground, and Usagi grabbed for the other girl's hair.
Crying out, Shadow jerked hard on Usagi's short pigtails. Usagi grunted, not the least bit affected. She bit down on Shadows shoulder, and the two rolled over. Usagi flung her fist out, contacting with Shadow's chin.
Shadow cursed, jumping back. She crossed her arms, shouting, "Oak Evolution!" Usagi cried out, as the leaves bit into her skin, slicing her flesh with their sharp edges.
The senshi smirked, and landed next to Jadeite. She raised her hand into the air, ready for her next attack.
Usagi struggled to one knee. "Cowered!" The senshi stopped, eyeing the beaten and battered blonde on the floor. "Oh you think so?" Usagi lifted her chin high, as she forced herself to stand. "You're a cowered, hiding behind my friend's attacks. You're nothing but a shadow, a mere copier." Rage boiled through her veins. "You're a fraud, a pathetic excuse of a senshi. You can't even uphold your honor, or even your sworn duty."
She could see Sailor Shadow growing angry, and decided to push a little harder. "You'll be nothing but a failure. You were a failure as a senshi, cause you gave up. And now you're a failure as a dark kingdom minion." Usagi smirked, noticing she was chipping at the wall around the senshi's heart.
"Stop talking to me! I don't need your insults, or your words. Nothing will stop me from destroying you. I may have failed as a senshi, but I wont fail my loyalty."
Usagi scoffed, trying her best at acting harsh. "You failed your loyalty towards the universe, and me. I will punish you, in name of the moon, for I'm Sailor Moon!"
Shadows snorted with disgust, "You think you will. But you forget, I control all of your powers."
Usagi shook her head, "Iie, you forgot one thing. There is one thing you will never be able to shadow." She touched her brooch, and withdrew the Silver Crystal.
"Iie, the Silver Crystal, but it's impossible."
Smiling, Usagi asked, "One thing you never learned Jadeite, but I'm the Tsuki no Hime." She raised the crystal over her head, 'Maybe I can get rid of them both without having to loose any more friends. I wont let them die for me again.'
Blinking back the forming tears, she shouted, "Silver Moon Crystal! Eternal Power!" Light shot forth with great brilliancy that blinded them all. She heard them cry out, and heard the dome crack from the force of the Crystal's energy.
She felt her body weakening, as the crystal drained her body, feeding off her life force. 'I can't...Squall...' For the first time, she stopped drawing the power from the crystal. It dropped back into her brooch, and she fell to the ground hard. Gasping, she blinked back the tears that rimmed her eyes. Arms wrapped around her, and she found herself staring up into a pair of bright blue eyes. "Squall?"
She clutched the jacket he wore, and smiled, "you...saved me." Her eyes filled with unshed tears, before they fell shut, she was too weak to even keep her eyes open.
Squall looked up at Pluto, with a questioning glance. She shook her head, telling him she didn't know. "We should head home, and get some rest."
The girls nodded, and headed for the exits, leaving for home.
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Groaning, Usagi opened her eyes to a familiar room. She blocked the sun's rays from her eyes with the back of her hand, as she yawned tiredly. Looking around, she spotted her clothes from yesterday lying near the dresser.
Lifting the blanket that covered her, she recognized the large shirt, and boxers she wore. Smiling, with a dazed expression, she sunk down into the soft bed.
Only seconds passed, before the door to the room opened, and lifting her gaze, she spotted Squall. The smell of food, caused her stomach to growl, and she sat up embarrassed.
"Squall?"
He flashed her a smile, as he crossed the room, and laid the tray down over her lap. She looked up into his face, as he seated himself on the edge of the bed.
His gaze caught hers, and he couldn't stop himself from asking, "Are you feeling better?" She nodded gratefully, lifting the fork in her hands, and tasted the meal. She licked her lips with anticipation, "It's delicious Squall! Artigato." She gave him a soft peck on the lips, before she took another bit of food, and another.
The corner of his mouth lifted as he watched her savor each bite. Leaning forward unexpectedly, he surprised them both by kissing her.
She giggled beneath him, kissing him back. Curious, she asked huskily, "Why are you being so nice to me?" She grinned, her face lighting up beneath his. Tilting his head to the side, he stated, "I want to spend the whole day with you."
Her breath caught, and her eyes glazed over. "You do? You want to spend the whole day with me?" When he nodded, she shrieked with joy, wrapping her arms around his neck, and bringing him down onto the tray of fresh baked food.
She instantly let him go, and he pulled away. The food was everywhere, even mashed into his clothes, from where she had pulled him down onto it.
Fretting, she vigorously stated, "Gomen nasasi Squall, gomen, I didn't..." she stopped, when Squall ran his hand down her cheek, smearing syrup on her face, and in her hair.
She stared at him, shocked, that he had actually done that. He grinned, watching her intently. Then suddenly he stated, "You know, you look cute with strawberry syrup in your hair."
Her nostrils flared, "Why you!" She grabbed her pancake, and tossed it at him. He laughed, ducking out of the way. Scrambling to her feet, she hurled some of the hash browns at him as well. His laughter died quickly, when she scored a hit.
Smirking, she flipped her sticky hair from her shoulder. "Goes to show yea, never mess with the senshi of the moon."
A single eyebrow rose as he studied her, "oh yea?" She nodded nonchalantly, crossing her arms over her chest.
He replied threateningly, "then how bout we raise the stakes." She stared at him, before inching back when he stepped towards her. "Stakes? Like how?"
He spread out his arms, "oh I was thinking, maybe like this." Without any warning at all, he lunged at her. When his body hit hers, she shrieked with laughter, as they tumbled on the bed. They rolled across the large mattress, covering themselves in breakfast.
Laughter, and giggles never died, not until, they stopped wrestling, and collapsed in exhaustion on the bed.
Lifting his head, Squall looked at her intently. She was covered in pancakes, scrambled eggs, hash browns, syrup, and orange juice. He wasn't looking any better himself. "I think we need a shower."
She giggled, sitting up, "I agree." She hopped up off the bed, and pulled him after her. He smirked, the corner of his mouth lifting. She led him into the bathroom, shutting the door behind them.
Seconds later the shower could be heard running.
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Content with the way her life was heading, Usagi wrapped her arms around Squall's waist as they walked. He looked down at her, and she smiled. He ran his fingers through her hair, and she let an inaudible sigh escape her lips. "Artigato for taking me to the movies, Squall." He shrugged as if it was nothing.
"I'm glad you enjoyed it." She nodded, snuggling her face into his side. She inhaled his familiar scent, and sighed wistfully. He chuckled, shaking his head. Glancing at his watch, he noted what time it was.
"Ready to go to the park?"
She looked up at him, and nodded eagerly, "Hai!" She hugged him tightly, as he steered them in the direction of the park.
When they reached the park, he led them to a secluded bench, which they sat in. They sat there in silence for some time, just content in each other's presence.
Knowing it was now or never, Squall wrapped his arm tightly around her, as he said, "Usagi, there's something I need to tell you." She lifted her head, so that it rested on his shoulder, and she was looking up at him. "What is it Squall?"
He sighed, feeling the burden weighing him down heavily. "I have to go back to my world soon." She didn't say anything, but stared at him. Her silence was like a stab at the heart, but he forced himself to ignore the pain. "The woman who brought me here, told me my world is in danger, and my friends need my help."
She closed her eyes briefly, but when they opened, they didn't hold any traces of tears. "I understand Squall. I'll just have to find a way to follow you there." He hugged her tightly, feeling the pain in his chest grow. "I don't know if I'll ever be able to come back."
She pulled back from him, and he could see she was trying to be strong. "Don't worry, I'll find away." He brushed back a strand of hair from her face. She snuggled back into his arms, but this time, her hands fisted around his jacket, as if it could keep him from going.
Her watch beeped, and it startled them both. Pulling back from him, she hit the button, and the alarm shut off. "Gomen Squall, but I need to head to work. Do you want me to come by afterwards?"
He nodded, standing with her. "Sure, we'll make some popcorn, how does that sound?" She grinned, "yummy! I can't wait. Maybe if I hurry, I'll get off early."
She kissed his cheek, before whipping around, and racing off in the direction of the arcade. He watched her go, and couldn't help but sigh in defeat.
He heard a sound, and turning around, he spotted Tidus. Frowning, he asked, "Why are you here?" The young man sighed, crossing his arms over his chest. "That woman came, the short chick." He held his hand up four feet from the ground. "She told me its time for us to go."
"Us?"
Tidus shrugged, and shook his head wearily.
'Of course both of you.'
The two men turned to the glowing light as the young woman who had brought them there, stepped out. 'I hope both of you are ready to go.'
Squall frowned, "why is Tidus coming?"
The girl softly smiled, 'You might need the extra help, so I'm sending him just in case.'
Squall nodded, dropping his head slightly, "I'm ready."
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Usagi stopped suddenly, and slowly turned around. Something was terribly wrong. She took a step back towards the park, but stopped.
What was this feeling?
Frowning, she headed back, racing to the area where she had left Squall. When she reached the bench, she found Squall wasn't alone, but Tidus, and the Cosmos guardian were with him.
"Squall?"
He looked up, his head whipping around in her direction. She hurried towards him, stopping at his side. She looked at the fairly like woman, "Why are you here?" Squall touched her hand, and nodded off towards the distance. He led her away from the other two, and only stopped when he was sure enough no one would over hear them.
He turned her towards him, and looked her straight in the eye. "She's asked me to go back now, Usagi." Tears leaked from her eyes, but she refused to cry. "Oh, so we'll have to take a rain check on that popcorn?" She tried to laugh through the tears but failed miserably.
He lifted her chin, locking his eyes with hers, "I don't want to leave Usagi, but I need to protect my world. If it's the last thing I do, I'll find my way back to you."
She shook her head, fighting back the pain, "iie, Squall, don't trouble yourself for me. Your friends need you more than I do." He kissed her lips, and felt her tears on his cheeks. "But I need you." He pulled back, and touched the necklace she wore. "Keep that to remember me by."
She nodded solemnly, but jabbed her hand into her pocket, and withdrew her star locket. "This is my star locket. I once gave it to a prince I knew, and he returned it to me when we found each other once again. I want you to have it, so that maybe one day we'll meet again."
She placed the locket into his palm, and closed his fingers around it. She closed her eyes briefly, and when she opened them, she was being held tightly in his arms.
"Promise me, you'll never forget me." She nodded, clinging to him, "I couldn't, even if I tried." He chuckled, the pain in his chest growing too strong. "And I wont forget you Usagi, I'll never forget you."
He stepped back from her, and took another step away from her. He was leaving her, moving back towards the Cosmos guardian, and Tidus. But he stopped, lifting his hand in a wave.
He closed his eyes, but when he opened them, there were tears clinging to his lashes. "I love you."
Emotions swelled up within her heart, almost causing it to burst. She tried to go after him, but by the time she reached him, they were all gone. "Squall!!!"
She dropped to her knees, the pain in her heart aching all over. "Squall!!!" Her hands fisted around the blades of grass.
He had said he loved her, and hadn't given her the chance to reply. 'I love you too, Squall. Now and forever.'
To help some of u out, I don't believe I'll make this a Tidus/Setsuna. I was thinking of doing so, but I don't know. If u have any recommendations, feel free to state them. Ty for loving my story. Also, I added Tidus, because I felt sorry for him. He's a handsome guy, and ends up nothing, so I thought he deserved a chance. Also, to get this out, this story has one more chapter. I've had this story fin for a while, just been editing it and all. I'm working on something, since I kind of end things badly, but u'll see wat I mean next chap. Well bye for now.
Chapter Sixteen
Squall Leonhart believed he would never get used to feeling torn in two. In his past, he couldn't remember a time, when he felt at a loss. Ever since he met that fairy woman, his life had been turned upside down. Nothing was the same anymore, and he felt as if it never would be again.
Taking the straw between his index finger, and thumb, he guided it to his mouth. As he sucked at his strawberry milkshake, he faintly wished Bask-n-robins served coffee. Shifting in his seat, he directed his gaze to the man sitting across from him.
"Tidus what kind of world did you come from?"
The blond haired young man dropped his spoon into his bowl of ice cream, and frowned. He propped his elbows up on the tabletop, and tilted his head slightly. "I don't really know. The world I did live in, I was the star player for the Zanarkand Abes. We played Blitz ball, it's a really cool game, but I wont bore you with the details."
He scooped his spoon into his banana split, and tasted it. Satisfied with the taste, he set his spoon back down in his bowl. "My father and mother were long gone, so I grew up with Auron. But then one night during a game, this creature came, and attacked us. He was called Sin."
He paused, to cross his arms over his chest, and thought about what happened after that. "I was brought to another world, one similar to yours Squall. I met up with a few people, Rikku, Wakka, Lulu, Kimahri and Yuna. Yuna was a summoner. She was supposed to sacrifice her life in order to kill Sin. We found another way to kill him though."
He stopped there, his face twisting into pain as he thought about the last moments he had, had with Yuna. "I found out, that the world I had come from was a dream, and that I didn't exist."
Squall dropped his gaze, and didn't ask any more questions about the young man's past. A squeal pierced the air, and he dared himself to look up. Lifting his gaze, he spotted a group of girls heading their way.
From where he sat, he found Usagi's eyes watching him, and he smirked. As the girls came closer, he saw her cheeks were flushed with excitement. She grinned, her face lighting up, before she blew him a kiss, and turned to her friend Setsuna.
Hotaru skipped up to his side, and tugged at his sleeve. "Squall kun, can I have money to buy candy?"
She pointed to the small store nearby, filled with every candy possible. He smiled ruefully, suddenly forgetting about his past, and the future to come. He reached into his pocket, withdrawing a few yen, and handed her what he took out. She broke out into a grin, and raced off to the store.
As if their earlier conversation never happened, Tidus asked, "Did you meet a fairy on your way to this world?" Squall looked over at the blond, and nodded grimly. "Yes, but I also just saw her recently."
"Really?"
Tidus ran a hand through his blond hair. "That fairy tricked me into coming here. The next time I see her, I'm going to let her have it." Squall shook his head, "She tricked me as well. But if it wasn't for her, I'd have never have met Usagi."
He stared at the blonde girl he was talking about. As if hearing her name, she looked up, and flashed him a smile, that made his heart seize in his chest for a brief second.
Tidus wrinkled his nose, "So you like her, right? But what about that girl you have back at home? Rin... something."
Squall shook his head regretfully, and turned his gaze to the entrance of the candy store. Hotaru skipped out merrily, with a large lollypop that was bigger than her mouth. He chuckled, as the dark haired girl reached his side, "Squall kun, artigato!!!" Turning in his seat, he bent over, and let her kiss his cheek, before she rushed off to join Haruka and Michiru.
"I did love Rinoa, but its no the same as I feel about Usagi. I don't know, whenever I'm with Usagi, I feel complete. With Rinoa, I felt like myself, but at ease. I know I love Usagi more."
Tidus shrugged, "whatever you say man." Haruka dropped down into the empty seat next to Squall, and asked calmly, "How are you two boys fairing?" Squall replied flippantly, "Fine. What happened to Michiru?" The tall blonde pointed to the group of girls, which Michiru had joined. Tidus chuckled, "Girl talk?"
Haruka nodded, a bored expression o n her face, before it vanished, and was replaced with curiosity. "So what were you two talking about before I so rudely interrupted?"
?????
Usagi gnawed on her bottom lip nervously. Uneasily, she crossed her arms over her chest, and glanced in Squall's direction. He was watching her, and she couldn't help but smile. He always seemed to make her feel happy, even in stressful situations.
She returned her gaze to Minako, who was chatting away with Makoto. She sighed again, but was startled out of her thoughts, when someone touched her shoulder. "Is something the matter hime?" Looking up, she studied the senshi of time, before she decided she needed to tell someone.
"Guys can we split up in groups?"
Minako nodded, "Sure. Hey Makoto lets go check out that new store they're opening up." Makoto slammed a fist into her palm, "All right!"
The cheery blonde flashed the girl's a victory sign, "All right then it's settled." Squall, Tidus and Haruka stopped from joining the group of girls. Uneasily, Haruka asked the question that was on all three of their minds, "What's settled?"
Minako giggled, and flipped her loose blonde hair from her shoulder, as she replied airily, "You guys are going to go shopping for Tidus. Makoto and I are going this way. Meet you back in the food court in two hours."
Minako didn't wait for answers, but grabbed Makoto's arm, and took off in the direction they had come from.
Squall watched the two girls push their way through the crowded mall, and couldn't help but shake his head. Those two had way too much energy. Turning to the rest of the group, he asked, "What's this about shopping for Tidus?" He directed his gaze on Usagi, waiting expectantly for an answer.
Setsuna replied evenly, "Tidus will need a new wardrobe. I believe it would be best, if you two help him find something decent to wear. His...um, Zanark...abes uniform wont do." She pointed at the outfit he wore, and she pursed her lips in distaste.
Frowning, Tidus looked down at his clothes, and asked hotly, "What wrong with my clothes?" Haruka looked at him, and shook her head with amusement, "Just about everything. Come on Squall, I think we can handle this chore."
Squall nodded, and replied, "This won't take two hours, but all right." He reluctantly turned from the group of girls, and followed Haruka and Tidus through the mall.
Michiru followed close behind Setsuna and Usagi, as they headed for a secluded area in the mall.
Usagi took a seat on an empty bench, and crossed her arms over her middle. "Setsuna, something's wrong." The senshi of time took a seat next to her, and placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "What's wrong?"
The blonde shook her head, as if it was helpless. "I don't know. It's in the pit of my stomach, and I can just feel it there. It's something horrible." Michiru sat down on the other side of her. "Do you think it might be Jadeite? Do you think he's coming back, while we are here?"
The blonde nodded, "hai, that and something else. Something with Squall. Oh kami something's going to happen to Squall!" She went to leap from the bench, but the two older women held her back.
Suddenly a scream hit the air, and an explosion followed close behind.
All three stood, and faced the direction the screams had come from.
"I hate it when I'm right."
They watched as a pack of youmas worked their way towards them.
"Ready?"
"Hai."
"Hai!"
They shouted out their transformations phrases at the same time. Instantly they transformed into Sailor Pluto, Sailor Neptune, and Sailor Moon.
?????
Minako squealed with delight, as she stared at the dress on display. "Its so beautiful!" She turned to Makoto, who was also drooling over the same dress. It was gorgeous, with many layers of blue satin, and silvery silk.
Minako lifted the dress from where it hung, and held it up against her body. "I have to have it!" Makoto looked at the tag, and nearly dropped to the floor in a faint, "way to much for my bank account!"
Suddenly they heard a scream. Startled, the two rushed from the store, and saw a pack of youmas heading towards them. "Damn I knew this day was too good to be true."
"Ready?"
"Hai."
They raised their wands, and shouted the words. Instantly, they transformed into Sailor Jupiter, and Sailor Venus.
?????
"So what do you guys think?"
Haruka and Squall glanced at Tidus, who had emerged from the fitting room. He spun around, and held out his arms in questioning. Squall replied, "Not bad." He glanced over the black slacks, and dressy dark blue shirt.
Haruka shrugged, "Whatever fits." She tugged on a strand of Hotaru's hair, and the child giggled. "He's handsome."
Tidus grinned, "all right I'll take it." He was cut off, when a scream sliced through the air.
Squall jumped from the seat he was sitting in, and whipped around. All the while saying, "Haruka..."
She nodded, and she pulled out the wand she had, and shouted her transformation. Squall withdrew his sword, and ordered Tidus to hide.
Sailor Uranus and Squall rushed out of the store, and faced the line of youmas coming their way.
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"Sailor Moon stay back."
Both Pluto, and Neptune leaped at the approaching youmas. Gasping, Usagi shouted, "Pluto, Neptune don't!" She took a step forward, but a sharp glaive blocked her path. "Iie Sailor Moon. Leave this battle to us."
Sailor Saturn rushed out after the two older senshi, leaving Usagi alone to watch.
Sailor Neptune crouched down, propelling herself up over the youma's head shouting, "Submarine Reflection!" From the mirror she held in both hands, a torrent of water shot out. Three youmas were knocked flat on their back by the blast of cold water.
Sailor Neptune landed on her feet, and readied herself for her next attack. Pluto slid into line with her, and raised her staff high, "Dead Scream." A ball of light shot forth from the end of her staff, and slammed into the fallen youmas.
"Neptune Deep Submerge!" A blast much like Pluto's, shot forward, and slammed into the remaining youmas. More appeared, replacing the last set, and the two senshi, panted from exhaustion.
"Death Ribbon Revolution!"
Both senshi watched in awe, as ribbons burst from the ground they stood on, and wrapped around the mob of youmas before them. The youma cried out, before their bodies burned, turning into fine dust.
Turning, Pluto looked at the youngest senshi, and smiled warmly, "Welcome back Sailor Saturn."
The young girl, smiled brightly, and leaned against the glaive she held.
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Sailor Venus cried out, when she was thrown back by an unexpected blast. She flipped herself around, and landed smoothly on her feet. Throwing her hand up, she tested an old attack. "Crescent Beam Shower!" A crescent moon touched the palm of her hand, and shot out in several streams of bright light.
She watched with satisfaction, as the youmas stared in awe, as a beam flew at their chest. Then explosions rocked the ground, as each light ignited itself. The smoke cleared, just in time to reveal the new line of youmas.
Grunting, she ran forward, just as a familiar voice at her right shouted, "Jupiter Oak Evolution!"
Jupiter spun around, flinging green leaves in all directions. Venus had to stop, and duck, to keep herself from being hit.
Three of the youmas got away, and attacked Venus at all sides. Gritting her teeth, she muttered, "I don't think so." Raising her hand, she shouted, "Venus Love and Beauty Shock!" The attack wrapped around the three surrounding her, and giving them the shock of their life. Dust littered the floor around her.
Jupiter landed at her side, and muttered in bewilderment, "They keep coming. We need to find the others."
Venus looked up, just as a bright light caught her eye. Inhaling sharply, she whipped around, and shoved the strong senshi of Jupiter out of the way. Startled Jupiter stumbled on her feet, falling back, and hit the ground, as the large blast of energy slammed in Venus.
"VENUS IIE!!"
The blonde senshi was thrown into the wall behind her, and it shattered from the force. Her limb body landed inside the small clothes store. Climbing to her feet, Jupiter stumbled after her friend, and fellow senshi.
A sound at her right caused her to pause. Looking up, she spotted a girl. She instantly recognized the uniform as one closely related to hers. Ankle boots, short shirt, bows, but with short gloves, much like Uranus's.
"Another Sailor Senshi? But I thought..."
The girl smirked, and crossed her arms over her chest. "Oak Evolution!"
"Nani!" She dove to the ground barely dodging her own attack sent at her. Jumping, she faced the girl, and shouted, "What are you doing? I'm not the enemy, the youmas are!"
She girl chuckled walking forward, "You think so?"
Frowning Jupiter asked, "Are you, one of Galaxies...one of them?" The girl shook her head, but the evil glint in her eyes never faltered. "Iie, but I had been captured by her. That witch destroyed my planet, and took my star seed." Her lips twisted into hatred, and she growled ruthlessly, "And I was left here all alone, as a floating star. My body was gone!"
Inclining her head, she raised her hand into the air. "But then my master came, and gave me my body back. So I must repay him for what he did for me." She lowered her hand before her face, and shouted, "Love and Beauty Shock!" She kissed her fingers, mimicking Venus's attack. She threw the heart energy at Jupiter, who didn't have enough time to get over her initial shock, to move out of the way.
She cried out, falling backwards, and hitting the ground hard. She skidded across the floor, rolling onto her stomach, then back onto her back. Lifting her head from the ground, she stared at the senshi, "H...How?"
"I live on a planet cast in shadows. My people, and I were created from the shadows, and survive off the shadows. Here, I survive off the shadows, the senshi's shadows. Have you ever wondered why you never felt alone?"
"You?" Jupiter struggled to her feet, wincing in pain. The girl nodded, "Hai it was I. I took your shadow's energy, every senshi's shadow's energy. I'm Sailor Shadow, and now it is time to meet your demise."
?????
"World Shaking!" Uranus dropped to the floor, breathing heavily. "We can't keep them back forever." Squall nodded, as he studied the youmas collecting themselves around them. "Yea I know." He scowled, as he searched the surrounding area.
Suddenly a flash blinded them all, and someone let out a yell. Whipping around, Squall watched with fascination, as Tidus, raced passed them, holding a long blue blade. He flipped over, slashing his blade down, before flipping backwards, bringing his blade up.
The young boy jumped back panting, "See, I'm not as useless as you thought." The group turned their gaze to the youmas. Ten of them were left of the large number there had been before.
Smirking, Squall nodded his thanks, and faced the youmas. Raising his blade, he raced towards them. Tidus followed close behind. They drew their blades upon the youmas, cutting them into pieces. When the last youma crumbled to dust, they heard the terrified scream.
?????
Usagi shrieked, when something appeared before her, and grabbed at her. She stumbled back, another scream rising from her throat. She heard her fellow senshi call her name, but the ground around her uplifted, forming a dome like wall.
Two hands came from the shadows, wrapping long fingers around her slender throat. Her cry for help was cut off, as the fingers began to squeeze. She kicked, and squirmed, trying to break herself free.
"Good job Sailor Shadow. You decapitated Jupiter and Venus." Tears rushed to Usagi's eyes. "Iie, what did you do to them?" She clawed at the fingers. A face came out of the shadows, and she recognized the Sailor Senshi uniform, but not the senshi. "I got rid of them, so that my master could get what he wants. To get rid of you."
Usagi cried out, unable to breath, unable to think. The Senshi that held her threw her into the wall of the dome, and she was able to breathe again. She crumpled to the floor gasping. Looking up, she stared at the girl, "But why? You're a Sailor Senshi. Your duty is to protect, not harm!"
She stared the senshi down, hatred towards the traitor swelling within her. Shadow seemed unaffected, "A Life for a Life. My duty ended when Galaxy betrayed her senshi, and destroyed my home."
Horrified, Usagi asked, "You were one of her Animates?" Shadow shook her head, casting a gaze to Jadeite, who watched with amusement. "She took my star seed, and destroyed my body, because I wouldn't join her. And when she died, killed by you, I was left here! Here on this ungrateful planet, as some floating rock!"
She stared at Jadeite, her eyes growing misty for such a brief second, that Usagi almost thought she had imagined it. "But my master saved me. He gave me my body back, and a second chance." Shadow looked back at Usagi, who was still sitting on the floor. "My duty is over as a senshi, and now I work for the dark kingdom, under Jadeite's power."
Usagi shook her head, "What about your sworn duty!" Her voice wasn't her own, in fact, she felt as if she wasn't even in her own body any more. She rose to her feet, her hands clenched at her sides. "When you took on the duty as a Sailor Senshi, you swore to protect all that was good. Do you take that back now?"
Both Jadeite, and Shadow paused, studying her with a strange interest. The senshi they had trapped was changing before them, and her body was glowing.
Usagi looked from one to the other, before she pointed threateningly at Sailor Shadow. "You have betrayed your people, your home, and also your fellow senshi." Her eyes hardened on the senshi before her. "You will be punished for your crimes, for taking back what you have sworn to uphold."
She pulled out her staff, and held it out before her.
Shadow shook herself from her trance, "I don't care anymore." She pressed her fingers together, forming a gun, "Fire Soul!"
Taking her staff, Usagi hit the ball of flame, knocking it from her. Shadow scowled with annoyance. "Not surprised I see. Well let's see about this one." She reached up to her tiara, "Tiara Action!"
Taking a step back, Usagi gasped as her own attack came after her. She dove to the ground, and rolled out of the way, as a blast of water hit where she once was. She jumped to her feet, only to have Venus's chain slam into her chest. She cried out hitting the wall.
"Usagi!!!"
She could hear them outside the dome, trying to break through. Clenching her teeth, she had to stall Shadow, and Jadeite, till the others could come and help her. She struggled to her feet, and rushed Shadow. The senshi gasped, stepping back, only to have Usagi ram her shoulder into the girl's gut. They hit the ground, and Usagi grabbed for the other girl's hair.
Crying out, Shadow jerked hard on Usagi's short pigtails. Usagi grunted, not the least bit affected. She bit down on Shadows shoulder, and the two rolled over. Usagi flung her fist out, contacting with Shadow's chin.
Shadow cursed, jumping back. She crossed her arms, shouting, "Oak Evolution!" Usagi cried out, as the leaves bit into her skin, slicing her flesh with their sharp edges.
The senshi smirked, and landed next to Jadeite. She raised her hand into the air, ready for her next attack.
Usagi struggled to one knee. "Cowered!" The senshi stopped, eyeing the beaten and battered blonde on the floor. "Oh you think so?" Usagi lifted her chin high, as she forced herself to stand. "You're a cowered, hiding behind my friend's attacks. You're nothing but a shadow, a mere copier." Rage boiled through her veins. "You're a fraud, a pathetic excuse of a senshi. You can't even uphold your honor, or even your sworn duty."
She could see Sailor Shadow growing angry, and decided to push a little harder. "You'll be nothing but a failure. You were a failure as a senshi, cause you gave up. And now you're a failure as a dark kingdom minion." Usagi smirked, noticing she was chipping at the wall around the senshi's heart.
"Stop talking to me! I don't need your insults, or your words. Nothing will stop me from destroying you. I may have failed as a senshi, but I wont fail my loyalty."
Usagi scoffed, trying her best at acting harsh. "You failed your loyalty towards the universe, and me. I will punish you, in name of the moon, for I'm Sailor Moon!"
Shadows snorted with disgust, "You think you will. But you forget, I control all of your powers."
Usagi shook her head, "Iie, you forgot one thing. There is one thing you will never be able to shadow." She touched her brooch, and withdrew the Silver Crystal.
"Iie, the Silver Crystal, but it's impossible."
Smiling, Usagi asked, "One thing you never learned Jadeite, but I'm the Tsuki no Hime." She raised the crystal over her head, 'Maybe I can get rid of them both without having to loose any more friends. I wont let them die for me again.'
Blinking back the forming tears, she shouted, "Silver Moon Crystal! Eternal Power!" Light shot forth with great brilliancy that blinded them all. She heard them cry out, and heard the dome crack from the force of the Crystal's energy.
She felt her body weakening, as the crystal drained her body, feeding off her life force. 'I can't...Squall...' For the first time, she stopped drawing the power from the crystal. It dropped back into her brooch, and she fell to the ground hard. Gasping, she blinked back the tears that rimmed her eyes. Arms wrapped around her, and she found herself staring up into a pair of bright blue eyes. "Squall?"
She clutched the jacket he wore, and smiled, "you...saved me." Her eyes filled with unshed tears, before they fell shut, she was too weak to even keep her eyes open.
Squall looked up at Pluto, with a questioning glance. She shook her head, telling him she didn't know. "We should head home, and get some rest."
The girls nodded, and headed for the exits, leaving for home.
?????
Groaning, Usagi opened her eyes to a familiar room. She blocked the sun's rays from her eyes with the back of her hand, as she yawned tiredly. Looking around, she spotted her clothes from yesterday lying near the dresser.
Lifting the blanket that covered her, she recognized the large shirt, and boxers she wore. Smiling, with a dazed expression, she sunk down into the soft bed.
Only seconds passed, before the door to the room opened, and lifting her gaze, she spotted Squall. The smell of food, caused her stomach to growl, and she sat up embarrassed.
"Squall?"
He flashed her a smile, as he crossed the room, and laid the tray down over her lap. She looked up into his face, as he seated himself on the edge of the bed.
His gaze caught hers, and he couldn't stop himself from asking, "Are you feeling better?" She nodded gratefully, lifting the fork in her hands, and tasted the meal. She licked her lips with anticipation, "It's delicious Squall! Artigato." She gave him a soft peck on the lips, before she took another bit of food, and another.
The corner of his mouth lifted as he watched her savor each bite. Leaning forward unexpectedly, he surprised them both by kissing her.
She giggled beneath him, kissing him back. Curious, she asked huskily, "Why are you being so nice to me?" She grinned, her face lighting up beneath his. Tilting his head to the side, he stated, "I want to spend the whole day with you."
Her breath caught, and her eyes glazed over. "You do? You want to spend the whole day with me?" When he nodded, she shrieked with joy, wrapping her arms around his neck, and bringing him down onto the tray of fresh baked food.
She instantly let him go, and he pulled away. The food was everywhere, even mashed into his clothes, from where she had pulled him down onto it.
Fretting, she vigorously stated, "Gomen nasasi Squall, gomen, I didn't..." she stopped, when Squall ran his hand down her cheek, smearing syrup on her face, and in her hair.
She stared at him, shocked, that he had actually done that. He grinned, watching her intently. Then suddenly he stated, "You know, you look cute with strawberry syrup in your hair."
Her nostrils flared, "Why you!" She grabbed her pancake, and tossed it at him. He laughed, ducking out of the way. Scrambling to her feet, she hurled some of the hash browns at him as well. His laughter died quickly, when she scored a hit.
Smirking, she flipped her sticky hair from her shoulder. "Goes to show yea, never mess with the senshi of the moon."
A single eyebrow rose as he studied her, "oh yea?" She nodded nonchalantly, crossing her arms over her chest.
He replied threateningly, "then how bout we raise the stakes." She stared at him, before inching back when he stepped towards her. "Stakes? Like how?"
He spread out his arms, "oh I was thinking, maybe like this." Without any warning at all, he lunged at her. When his body hit hers, she shrieked with laughter, as they tumbled on the bed. They rolled across the large mattress, covering themselves in breakfast.
Laughter, and giggles never died, not until, they stopped wrestling, and collapsed in exhaustion on the bed.
Lifting his head, Squall looked at her intently. She was covered in pancakes, scrambled eggs, hash browns, syrup, and orange juice. He wasn't looking any better himself. "I think we need a shower."
She giggled, sitting up, "I agree." She hopped up off the bed, and pulled him after her. He smirked, the corner of his mouth lifting. She led him into the bathroom, shutting the door behind them.
Seconds later the shower could be heard running.
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Content with the way her life was heading, Usagi wrapped her arms around Squall's waist as they walked. He looked down at her, and she smiled. He ran his fingers through her hair, and she let an inaudible sigh escape her lips. "Artigato for taking me to the movies, Squall." He shrugged as if it was nothing.
"I'm glad you enjoyed it." She nodded, snuggling her face into his side. She inhaled his familiar scent, and sighed wistfully. He chuckled, shaking his head. Glancing at his watch, he noted what time it was.
"Ready to go to the park?"
She looked up at him, and nodded eagerly, "Hai!" She hugged him tightly, as he steered them in the direction of the park.
When they reached the park, he led them to a secluded bench, which they sat in. They sat there in silence for some time, just content in each other's presence.
Knowing it was now or never, Squall wrapped his arm tightly around her, as he said, "Usagi, there's something I need to tell you." She lifted her head, so that it rested on his shoulder, and she was looking up at him. "What is it Squall?"
He sighed, feeling the burden weighing him down heavily. "I have to go back to my world soon." She didn't say anything, but stared at him. Her silence was like a stab at the heart, but he forced himself to ignore the pain. "The woman who brought me here, told me my world is in danger, and my friends need my help."
She closed her eyes briefly, but when they opened, they didn't hold any traces of tears. "I understand Squall. I'll just have to find a way to follow you there." He hugged her tightly, feeling the pain in his chest grow. "I don't know if I'll ever be able to come back."
She pulled back from him, and he could see she was trying to be strong. "Don't worry, I'll find away." He brushed back a strand of hair from her face. She snuggled back into his arms, but this time, her hands fisted around his jacket, as if it could keep him from going.
Her watch beeped, and it startled them both. Pulling back from him, she hit the button, and the alarm shut off. "Gomen Squall, but I need to head to work. Do you want me to come by afterwards?"
He nodded, standing with her. "Sure, we'll make some popcorn, how does that sound?" She grinned, "yummy! I can't wait. Maybe if I hurry, I'll get off early."
She kissed his cheek, before whipping around, and racing off in the direction of the arcade. He watched her go, and couldn't help but sigh in defeat.
He heard a sound, and turning around, he spotted Tidus. Frowning, he asked, "Why are you here?" The young man sighed, crossing his arms over his chest. "That woman came, the short chick." He held his hand up four feet from the ground. "She told me its time for us to go."
"Us?"
Tidus shrugged, and shook his head wearily.
'Of course both of you.'
The two men turned to the glowing light as the young woman who had brought them there, stepped out. 'I hope both of you are ready to go.'
Squall frowned, "why is Tidus coming?"
The girl softly smiled, 'You might need the extra help, so I'm sending him just in case.'
Squall nodded, dropping his head slightly, "I'm ready."
?????
Usagi stopped suddenly, and slowly turned around. Something was terribly wrong. She took a step back towards the park, but stopped.
What was this feeling?
Frowning, she headed back, racing to the area where she had left Squall. When she reached the bench, she found Squall wasn't alone, but Tidus, and the Cosmos guardian were with him.
"Squall?"
He looked up, his head whipping around in her direction. She hurried towards him, stopping at his side. She looked at the fairly like woman, "Why are you here?" Squall touched her hand, and nodded off towards the distance. He led her away from the other two, and only stopped when he was sure enough no one would over hear them.
He turned her towards him, and looked her straight in the eye. "She's asked me to go back now, Usagi." Tears leaked from her eyes, but she refused to cry. "Oh, so we'll have to take a rain check on that popcorn?" She tried to laugh through the tears but failed miserably.
He lifted her chin, locking his eyes with hers, "I don't want to leave Usagi, but I need to protect my world. If it's the last thing I do, I'll find my way back to you."
She shook her head, fighting back the pain, "iie, Squall, don't trouble yourself for me. Your friends need you more than I do." He kissed her lips, and felt her tears on his cheeks. "But I need you." He pulled back, and touched the necklace she wore. "Keep that to remember me by."
She nodded solemnly, but jabbed her hand into her pocket, and withdrew her star locket. "This is my star locket. I once gave it to a prince I knew, and he returned it to me when we found each other once again. I want you to have it, so that maybe one day we'll meet again."
She placed the locket into his palm, and closed his fingers around it. She closed her eyes briefly, and when she opened them, she was being held tightly in his arms.
"Promise me, you'll never forget me." She nodded, clinging to him, "I couldn't, even if I tried." He chuckled, the pain in his chest growing too strong. "And I wont forget you Usagi, I'll never forget you."
He stepped back from her, and took another step away from her. He was leaving her, moving back towards the Cosmos guardian, and Tidus. But he stopped, lifting his hand in a wave.
He closed his eyes, but when he opened them, there were tears clinging to his lashes. "I love you."
Emotions swelled up within her heart, almost causing it to burst. She tried to go after him, but by the time she reached him, they were all gone. "Squall!!!"
She dropped to her knees, the pain in her heart aching all over. "Squall!!!" Her hands fisted around the blades of grass.
He had said he loved her, and hadn't given her the chance to reply. 'I love you too, Squall. Now and forever.'