Hi! I'm back! Sorry for the long wait on this Chapter. Please forgive
me. I hope you like it! Please Review!
Well on with the story!
Duo pops up: It's about time! Man I've been waiting forever! I'd better have a scene
with Hotaru in here!
Hotaru enters and slaps Duo upside the head: Hey give her a break! If you keep this up
you can forget about that date tonight.
Duo: No! Please don't do that, Babe! I'm sorry BubblyOne. See Hotaru I apologized
please don't cancel our date!
Hotaru taps her chin in thought: Hmmmm.
Duo gets on his knees, claps his hands together, and starts begging: Please!
Hotaru starts giggling: Fine. Fine. We're still on for that date.
Duo jumps up happily and hugs Hotaru: Thank you! Thank you!
Hotaru turns to BubblyOne: Well we'll be going now. Ja Ne
BubblyOne waves bye to Hotaru and Duo smiling: Bye! Have fun on your date!
Turning to the reader's BubblyOne bows: Sorry for the long wait. So on with the story!
****************
After detransforming Usagi and Hotaru ran back to Chiba-Usa and Shingo. Grabbing them they dragged them back to where the guys were. When they arrived they saw many of the students who were drained earlier starting to get up. Usagi ran to the guys worried about Quatre. As she arrived she saw him still on the ground unconscious.
"Kami. What happened?" Usagi asked as she ran up to them. "Is Quatre all right?"
The guys turned to see a highly worried Usagi holding Chiba-Usa with Hotaru and Shingo right behind them.
Trowa looked at Quatre and noticed him breathing. Quickly checking his pulse he wore an expression of shock. "H..he has a pulse again." Trowa informed everyone. "It's weak but its there."
"How? A few minutes ago he wasn't even breathing." Duo asked surprised.
"What!" Usagi exclaimed surprised and rushed over to Quatre. Patting his cheek she started calling to him. "Q-chan. Q-chan. Wake up. Onegai. Wake up. Don't keep us worried." All the while she was saying this she patted his cheek.
As the others watched Quatre moaned slightly. Slowly opening his eyes he looked into crystal clear blue eyes filled with worry. Focusing his vision he noticed Usagi with a worried, but happy face.
"Don't scare us like that again Q-chan. I don't think I could bare losing another friend."
"Sorry Usagi. What happened to that creature?" Quatre asked tiredly. He felt so weak especially after that creature grabbed him.
"It was destroyed by these two really hot chicks in really short skirts." Duo said drooling.
Unnoticed by everyone, Hotaru's eye twitched with a little vein pulsing right above her eye at his description of her and Usagi. She was so tempted to hit him upside the head. Heero wasn't really paying attention to the rest. He was trying to figure out who those two women where and what that thing was. As they where talking the loud speaker came on.
"Attention all students and faculty. All classes have been dismissed until further notice. I ask that everyone return home in a quick and efficient manner."
"Quatre are you able to walk?" Usagi asked.
Quatre tried standing up, but his legs buckled under him. "No. For some reason I feel really weak."
"Did you guys walk here or drive?" Hotaru asked
"We drove." Duo said
"Good. Here is what I suggest. I suggest that we take Quatre to our home since it's close by so he can rest. I also want to get to know Usagi's new friends."
Trowa nodded his head in agreement. "I agree with her, but everyone won't fit in the car."
"Hmmm. Well then you, Hotaru, Quatre, Shingo, and Chiba-Usa will go in the car." Usagi said "The rest of us will walk."
"But.." Chiba-Usa and Shingo both began
"No buts. Derrick maybe waiting and I will not have you two hurt. The sooner you get home the happier I'll be. So no argument." Usagi said sternly. Bowing their heads in defeat they left with Trowa and the others.
Sighing Usagi regretted being so stern to them. She would have to talk to them later and apologize. Suddenly she felt a hand on her shoulder. Turning her head she saw Wufei there looking at her a little worried though he was trying to hide it. Smiling at him she said, "Well are we ready. We have a distance to walk."
Half way to Usagi's house Duo spoke up. "You run this far to school?"
"Hai. You won't believe how happy I was to find out that the distance from my home to school was so short."
"Short!" Duo exclaimed surprised.
"Yes, the distance from my old school and home was much further." Usagi informed them. Duo just stared at her surprised.
Arriving at the gate they were surprised to see a mansion. Well everyone but Wufei.
"Wow! You live here? You must be loaded." Duo said excited. Usagi couldn't help but laugh at that.
"Yes I am unfortunately."
"Why do you say unfortunately?" Heero asked curious.
"Money isn't everything, Heero. Given a choice I would live a nice quiet middle class life. Money means nothing to me." Usagi said in a very mature voice that the boys had never heard before. "Well let us go in. Quatre and the others should be here."
Walking down the path to the house, Duo and Heero were memorized by the beauty of the yard. It was quite peaceful. Opening the door Usagi ushered them in. Heero and Duo where surprised to say the least when they entered. Though Heero didn't show it like Duo did. They were expecting it to be glamorous like the outside but it was homely. It gave of a feeling of family and happiness. Closing the door she led them to the living room where they saw Trowa, Shingo, Chiba-Usa, and Setsuna.
"Where is Hotaru and Quatre?" Usagi asked after giving Setsuna a hug.
"Hotaru is checking on Quatre in the guest room. She should be back in a minute."
"All right then." Usagi replied. Looking around she noticed everyone standing. Smiling at them she asked, "Why don't you take a seat and I will bring in some snacks. Chiba-Usa would you like to help me?"
Jumping up happily she replied, "Sure Usagi-mama." Walking in to the kitchen they left the boys and Setsuna in the living room before anyone could refuse.
Duo shrugged and sat on the couch. "Might as well. We don't know how long Quatre will need to rest."
Trowa nodded in agreement and took a seat by the window followed by Heero. Wufei was sitting in his normal place when he stayed for awhile with Usagi.
"So how are you boys doing? I hear that you have been helping my charges with some bullies. I can't thank you enough for watching over them while I was away."
"Hey no problem. We can't let our friends get hurt now can we." Duo said smiling his goofy grin.
"And I thank you for that." Setsuna said.
************
In the Kitchen
************
Usagi filled the teapot with water and then placed it on the burn, while Chiba-Usa made some sandwiches.
"Usagi-mama should we cut up a little of that cake you made last night?" Chiba-Usa asked
"Sure why not." Usagi said placing the cake on the table.
After cutting the cake Chiba-Usa started placing it on plates when arms wrapped around her. "I'm sorry Chiba-Usa. I shouldn't have been so mean to you earlier. I just couldn't bare losing you like the others. You and Shingo are all I have left of my actual family. I love Setsuna and Hotaru greatly but you are of my blood. I would die inside if I lost you forever."
"You won't lose me Mama, but how am I suppose to get stronger and protect you if you don't let me help? I don't want to lose you either Mama. I want to help. I may not be as strong as you, but I can still help. Uncle Shingo wants to help to. He feels the same way about you. You know that we would be careful and Setsuna and Hotaru will always be there to help." Chiba-Usa said leaning into Usagi's arms.
Kissing the top of her head Usagi hugged her tightly. "I see your point. We'll talk about this more after our new friends have left."
"Ok Mama." Chiba-Usa said then grinned mischievously. "So when are you going to tell Wufei?"
"What are you talking about?" Usagi asked a little confused.
"When are you going to tell Wufei you like him, baka." Chiba-Usa replied
"I..I don't like him. Well at not least like that." Usagi stammered a little.
Chiba-Usa noticed the slight blush on Usagi's face and smiled. "Right." Chiba-Usa drawled.
Just then the teapot screeched.
"Why don't you take in the snacks Chiba-Usa and I'll be right there with the tea." Usagi suggested to Chiba-Usa. Chiba-Usa smiled at how awkward she had made her future mother and took the tray full of goodies out into the living room.
Entering the living room she place the tray on the coffee table. "Usagi- mama will be out with the tea shortly. I hope you like the snacks." Chiba- Usa said politely.
Seeing the cake Duo immediately grabbed a peace and started to eat it. "Wow! This cake is great!"
"Why thank you, Duo. I'm glad my cake turned out so well." Usagi said walking in with the tray of tea. Placing it on the coffee table beside the snacks she placed a cup in front of each of them. "What type of tea would you like. I have green tea and regular tea." As she was asking she poured some green tea in a cup and handed it to Wufei without really realizing it. The others noticed it though and Duo put that away in his head to tease Wufei about later. Wufei didn't think anything of it. Seeing how he walked her home everyday from school and he would always have a cup of green tea before leaving.
"Regular tea." Duo and Trowa said at the same time while Heero asked for green tea. Pouring the tea she then stood up. "If you will excuse me I'm going to check on Hotaru and Quatre." Usagi stated before leaving.
Heading to the guestroom Usagi walked in and closed the door behind her. Upon entering she saw Quatre resting on the bed and Hotaru slouched in the chair. Hearing the door open and close Hotaru smiled weakly when she saw Usagi.
"Are you all right, Hotaru?" Usagi asked concerned.
"Hai. I'm just a little weak and tired right now. Quatre will be fine. He will have to rest here for the night though. I doubt his friends will let him stay here alone so we will have to prepare rooms for them."
"Fine but let's get you to your room. I'll bring up some tea and a piece of the cake I made last night and some sandwiches Chiba-Usa made." Usagi said as she helped Hotaru up. Walking out of the room they headed to Hotaru's room. Once there Usagi helped her into bed and made sure she was comfortable.
"Usagi that youma was different from the rest. I can't place how though."
"I noticed that to. It didn't even say what it was. It seemed like it was after energy, but I wonder what type. It was just going randomly for people."
"When the next one shows up we will have to find out some answers before destroying it."
"Maybe. I'll talk to Setsuna later and see what she knows." Usagi said
"That's a good idea. She can ask Merian what is going on in the time stream."
"Who's Merian?" Usagi asked curious
"Oh that's right I didn't tell you! Merian is Setsuna's temporary replacement." Hotaru answered.
"What!" Usagi exclaimed
"Shhh. Quiet down. Chronos decided it was high time that Setsuna had a vacation and somewhat of a normal life. So he convinced some people to allow Merian, who is basically a spirit, to guard the gates for awhile."
"Oh that is wonderful. I have a feeling school is going to be out for awhile so that means we can spend more time together. I'll have to thank Chronos later. Well get some rest and we'll talk some more tomorrow." Usagi said walking to the door.
"See you tomorrow." Hotaru said before drifting off to sleep.
***************
Shingo was getting bored. Everyone was so quiet and every time he'd try to start a conversation it would only last about a minute. Seeing how no one was going to talk Shingo decided he was going to play a video game. The games they had now were great. The visual effects and story were impressive. Getting up he turned to Setsuna. "I'm going to the game room, Aunt Setsuna. School has been canceled until further notice so no homework."
Duo was bored as well and sighed. The only one trying to start a conversation was Shingo and Duo was trying to think of something to do besides talk. Hearing where Shingo was going Duo couldn't resist asking to come along. "Hey you have a game room. Mind if I come along. I need something to do."
Shingo looked at Duo and nodded his head. "Sure come on." Shingo said and headed out of the room.
Chiba-Usa glared at Shingo's direction and stood up. "Hey wait for me! You're not playing with out me!" She shouted running after him.
Setsuna looked at the rest of the boys and smiled. "If you would like you can go to the game room as well. I'm sure there are bound to be games in there that you would like. There is even a VR game in there with the latest game. I believe it is called 'Hunter' (Don't know if there is a game called that. Just made it up.)
Heero perked up at this. He had heard about that game and it was one of the rare ones to catch his attention. If he remembered correctly it could be played in teams or against others. The objective of the game was to kill your enemy or enemies. The enemies could be the others in the game and the monsters.
"Follow me and I'll show you where the game room is." Setsuna said walking out into the hallway.
Heero looked at the others, stood, and followed. Walking down the hall they followed Setsuna and stopped when she started to open a door with a golden V on it. Stepping in they were amazed at the size of the game room. It was they were in truly in an arcade room. As soon as they entered fully they saw Duo grinning happily.
"The VR room is through there." Setsuna said pointing at a door across from them. "Have fun. I'm going to take care of some business."
"Bye Aunt Setsuna." Shingo and Chiba-Usa said and then started putting on their VR suits.
"There are some extras over there in the closet if you want to play." Shingo said pointing to the open closet.
Duo grabbed one immediately and started to put on. "Oh man this is going to be so great!"
The other three looked at each other debating whether or not to play. Chiba-Usa noticed their hesitation and walked over to them. "Please play with us. If you're worried about Quatre or embarrassing yourselves don't worry. Quatre is in the best of hands and I won't tell a soul that you played." Still seeing doubt she went for the one thing that always succeeded. Putting on her famous puppy face she asked in a sweet voice tinged with hope, "Please?"
Duo and Shingo had to keep from laughing at what Chiba-Usa was doing or they would have ruined the mood. Shingo knew that look and so far to his knowledge no one could refuse it. Usagi did the same thing when she really wanted something and although he didn't want to give in he always did.
Wufei grimaced at that look she was giving them. He knew what she was doing because she had done that to him before. He wanted to say no but couldn't with that look. He knew it was a trick, but if he said no he would feel bad for saying it. Then she would go to the next step and act hurt making you feel worse so that you had to say yes just to make her feel better. He didn't want to go through that right now so head nodded his head and grabbed at suit mumbling about little onnas and their tricks.
Trowa looked at Chiba-Usa and just nodded his head. He knew it was better to just agree then fight it. Catherine would do this to him every now and then as well. He doesn't know how his sister did it but when she used that face he just couldn't refuse her. **It has to be a girl thing.** he thought as he started to put on his suit.
Heero wasn't sure how to handle this. No one had ever given him that look before not even Relena. He wanted to say no but just looking into her eyes he couldn't for fear of making her cry. And that was the last thing needed. Yes he was afraid of people crying. He had never really cried much. When he was around someone who cried he didn't know how to make them stop. He never had to worry about that before. When he saw Wufei and Trowa start putting on suits he thanked them mentally. He now could just Hn and make it seem he was only doing it because the others were.
Chiba-Usa waited for Heero's answer and was prepared to go to the next step if needed.
"Hn." She heard Heero say and watched as he grabbed a suit and started putting it on.
Smiling Chiba-Usa skipped over to Shingo and Duo.
"One day someone will tell you and Usagi no when you guys put on that look. And when that day happens I'll be there with a recorder." Shingo said smiling
"Does Usagi look as pitiful as that?" Duo asked chuckling a little.
"Worse. I don't know how that Odanga Atama does it." Shingo said
"Odango whata?" Duo asked confused
"It means dumpling head. Though Meatball head is another translation." Shingo answered
"Why call her that?" Duo asked still confused.
Hearing the conversation Wufei became curious and moved closer to Duo and Shingo.
"Well because of her hair style. You noticed how different it is, right?" Shingo asked
"Umm, yeah it's in to balls with streamers down. Never saw anyone put their up like that before."
"Well because it is in balls that is where part of Odanga Atama comes from. It looks like dumpling or meatballs. Then the fact that at the old school she was always failing her classes until recently." Shingo said
"Don't forget that she also hates that name. You should she her when she's called that name! It is so funny! I'd describe it for you but you would have to see it for yourselves." Chiba-Usa said laughing.
Wufei smirked and stored that little piece of information away for later.
"So what game are we playing?" Duo asked wanting to play.
"Umm, well we were either thinking 'Hunter' or 'Heroes of Pathalin'." Shingo replied
"I know what Hunter is about, but what is 'Heroes of Pathalin'?" Duo asked.
"It's your basic roleplaying game. Though there is a setting where you can fight each other." Shingo said
"What would you guys prefer?" Chiba-Usa asked. "You are our guests after all."
"I'd say go ahead and play 'Hunter'. Heero would like that better than the other one." Duo answered after some thought.
"Great! Maybe I can win this time." Shingo answered happily
"Yeah! I might even have a chance at it now." Chiba-Usa replied
"I take it you lose a lot." Trowa inquired
"Only when we play Usagi. I don't know how she does it either. And its only this game, Heroes of Pathalin, and the Sailor V games that she's good at. All the others she loses terribly." Shingo answered as he set everything up for the game. "Ok it's ready. So let's go. I set it so that everyone is against everyone. All you have to do is select your colors and then enter the room."
"Cool." Duo said and chose black running into the room
Chiba-Usa picked pink while Shingo choose yellow.
Heero picked red and Trowa picked green while Wufei decided on blue.
*************
Usagi walked into the living room to see no one there and wondered where everyone went. Setsuna walked up to Usagi cleared her throat so she would know that she was behind her. Turning around Usagi saw Setsuna and smiled.
"Heard about your two weeks. I'm glad you finally have some time off. So where is everyone?"
"In the VR room." Setsuna answered
"Good then that gives us time to talk." Usagi said taking a seat.
"Youmas have started to reappear, but there is something different about them. They seem a little smarter, but not by much. Or at least the one we destroyed wasn't, but what was interesting was that when it took Quatre's energy it didn't return like it normally would back home. In fact if it hadn't been for Hotaru using her healing Quatre would be in a coma right now. The other students didn't seem to be as drained as Quatre was so that may explain why they were able to return too normal. So the guys may be staying the night. Quatre can't be move right now so he has to stay here. Have you seen anything in the Time Gates?"
Setsuna listened to her princess and sat in thought. Getting a far away look her eyes she grimaced at bit and then returned too normal. Looking at Usagi she shook her head no. "No. There is nothing wrong as of yet in the Time Streams. Merian says everything is fine at the gates. The future is clouded at the moment for me. It seems that Time does not wish me to see the possibilities or outcomes this time. We will have to wait for the enemy to show itself again. I also think that we will need to train Chiba- Usa and Shingo. We may need them."
Usagi grimaced at that information. "You are right, but why Shingo?"
"He now posses the power of the moon like you do so he is able to transform like you, but he won't be able to use it until I find Luna and Artemis."
"Luna and Artemis are alive?" Usagi asked surprised.
"Hai they are. I just don't know where they are. The war there has escalated so much that I am having trouble pinpointing their location. I do know that they are alive though."
"I hope you find them soon. I thought they had died. I hope they don't think that I had forgotten them. Do you think they'll think that?" Usagi asked concerned.
"No. They love you greatly."
"Hope you are right." Usagi whispered.
"I know I am. You were under a lot of grief and stress. With all the destruction you were lucky to find Shingo. They would understand that." Setsuna said walking over to her princess and wrapping her arms around her.
"Could you ask Merian to help you look?" Usagi asked
"Hai. I'm sure she'll be happy to. Now how about going and playing with your daughter and brother. I believe they are playing 'Hunter'."
Smiling at Setsuna she laughed a little. "You know how much I love that game. That's not being fair."
"Fair? I have no idea what you are talking about." Setsuna said acting innocent
"Don't play innocent." Usagi said getting up. Placing a hand on Setsuna's shoulder Usagi said, "Thank You, my friend."
"Try and be happy with your new life Hime. You still have people who care for you."
"I know Puu." Usagi said using the nickname she had given Setsuna so long ago. "Don't worry. As long as I have my friends and family I'll always be happy." With that being said Usagi left.
Setsuna watched as Usagi left and sighed. **Please Father, let her be happy here. She has had enough sorrow to last many lifetimes.** She thought before getting up and going to check on Hotaru and Quatre.
******************
Yeah I finished! I couldn't find a good place to stop. Well that and Writer's block.
I've already started the next chapter so it should be out in a week. I hope that you liked it.
Now all I have to do is finish the other chapter for A New Enemy? and Hope. (My Gundam Wing fics) It's wonderful to be writing again!
Well gotta get on finishing that next chapter!
Bye-Bye
BubblyOne
Well on with the story!
Duo pops up: It's about time! Man I've been waiting forever! I'd better have a scene
with Hotaru in here!
Hotaru enters and slaps Duo upside the head: Hey give her a break! If you keep this up
you can forget about that date tonight.
Duo: No! Please don't do that, Babe! I'm sorry BubblyOne. See Hotaru I apologized
please don't cancel our date!
Hotaru taps her chin in thought: Hmmmm.
Duo gets on his knees, claps his hands together, and starts begging: Please!
Hotaru starts giggling: Fine. Fine. We're still on for that date.
Duo jumps up happily and hugs Hotaru: Thank you! Thank you!
Hotaru turns to BubblyOne: Well we'll be going now. Ja Ne
BubblyOne waves bye to Hotaru and Duo smiling: Bye! Have fun on your date!
Turning to the reader's BubblyOne bows: Sorry for the long wait. So on with the story!
****************
After detransforming Usagi and Hotaru ran back to Chiba-Usa and Shingo. Grabbing them they dragged them back to where the guys were. When they arrived they saw many of the students who were drained earlier starting to get up. Usagi ran to the guys worried about Quatre. As she arrived she saw him still on the ground unconscious.
"Kami. What happened?" Usagi asked as she ran up to them. "Is Quatre all right?"
The guys turned to see a highly worried Usagi holding Chiba-Usa with Hotaru and Shingo right behind them.
Trowa looked at Quatre and noticed him breathing. Quickly checking his pulse he wore an expression of shock. "H..he has a pulse again." Trowa informed everyone. "It's weak but its there."
"How? A few minutes ago he wasn't even breathing." Duo asked surprised.
"What!" Usagi exclaimed surprised and rushed over to Quatre. Patting his cheek she started calling to him. "Q-chan. Q-chan. Wake up. Onegai. Wake up. Don't keep us worried." All the while she was saying this she patted his cheek.
As the others watched Quatre moaned slightly. Slowly opening his eyes he looked into crystal clear blue eyes filled with worry. Focusing his vision he noticed Usagi with a worried, but happy face.
"Don't scare us like that again Q-chan. I don't think I could bare losing another friend."
"Sorry Usagi. What happened to that creature?" Quatre asked tiredly. He felt so weak especially after that creature grabbed him.
"It was destroyed by these two really hot chicks in really short skirts." Duo said drooling.
Unnoticed by everyone, Hotaru's eye twitched with a little vein pulsing right above her eye at his description of her and Usagi. She was so tempted to hit him upside the head. Heero wasn't really paying attention to the rest. He was trying to figure out who those two women where and what that thing was. As they where talking the loud speaker came on.
"Attention all students and faculty. All classes have been dismissed until further notice. I ask that everyone return home in a quick and efficient manner."
"Quatre are you able to walk?" Usagi asked.
Quatre tried standing up, but his legs buckled under him. "No. For some reason I feel really weak."
"Did you guys walk here or drive?" Hotaru asked
"We drove." Duo said
"Good. Here is what I suggest. I suggest that we take Quatre to our home since it's close by so he can rest. I also want to get to know Usagi's new friends."
Trowa nodded his head in agreement. "I agree with her, but everyone won't fit in the car."
"Hmmm. Well then you, Hotaru, Quatre, Shingo, and Chiba-Usa will go in the car." Usagi said "The rest of us will walk."
"But.." Chiba-Usa and Shingo both began
"No buts. Derrick maybe waiting and I will not have you two hurt. The sooner you get home the happier I'll be. So no argument." Usagi said sternly. Bowing their heads in defeat they left with Trowa and the others.
Sighing Usagi regretted being so stern to them. She would have to talk to them later and apologize. Suddenly she felt a hand on her shoulder. Turning her head she saw Wufei there looking at her a little worried though he was trying to hide it. Smiling at him she said, "Well are we ready. We have a distance to walk."
Half way to Usagi's house Duo spoke up. "You run this far to school?"
"Hai. You won't believe how happy I was to find out that the distance from my home to school was so short."
"Short!" Duo exclaimed surprised.
"Yes, the distance from my old school and home was much further." Usagi informed them. Duo just stared at her surprised.
Arriving at the gate they were surprised to see a mansion. Well everyone but Wufei.
"Wow! You live here? You must be loaded." Duo said excited. Usagi couldn't help but laugh at that.
"Yes I am unfortunately."
"Why do you say unfortunately?" Heero asked curious.
"Money isn't everything, Heero. Given a choice I would live a nice quiet middle class life. Money means nothing to me." Usagi said in a very mature voice that the boys had never heard before. "Well let us go in. Quatre and the others should be here."
Walking down the path to the house, Duo and Heero were memorized by the beauty of the yard. It was quite peaceful. Opening the door Usagi ushered them in. Heero and Duo where surprised to say the least when they entered. Though Heero didn't show it like Duo did. They were expecting it to be glamorous like the outside but it was homely. It gave of a feeling of family and happiness. Closing the door she led them to the living room where they saw Trowa, Shingo, Chiba-Usa, and Setsuna.
"Where is Hotaru and Quatre?" Usagi asked after giving Setsuna a hug.
"Hotaru is checking on Quatre in the guest room. She should be back in a minute."
"All right then." Usagi replied. Looking around she noticed everyone standing. Smiling at them she asked, "Why don't you take a seat and I will bring in some snacks. Chiba-Usa would you like to help me?"
Jumping up happily she replied, "Sure Usagi-mama." Walking in to the kitchen they left the boys and Setsuna in the living room before anyone could refuse.
Duo shrugged and sat on the couch. "Might as well. We don't know how long Quatre will need to rest."
Trowa nodded in agreement and took a seat by the window followed by Heero. Wufei was sitting in his normal place when he stayed for awhile with Usagi.
"So how are you boys doing? I hear that you have been helping my charges with some bullies. I can't thank you enough for watching over them while I was away."
"Hey no problem. We can't let our friends get hurt now can we." Duo said smiling his goofy grin.
"And I thank you for that." Setsuna said.
************
In the Kitchen
************
Usagi filled the teapot with water and then placed it on the burn, while Chiba-Usa made some sandwiches.
"Usagi-mama should we cut up a little of that cake you made last night?" Chiba-Usa asked
"Sure why not." Usagi said placing the cake on the table.
After cutting the cake Chiba-Usa started placing it on plates when arms wrapped around her. "I'm sorry Chiba-Usa. I shouldn't have been so mean to you earlier. I just couldn't bare losing you like the others. You and Shingo are all I have left of my actual family. I love Setsuna and Hotaru greatly but you are of my blood. I would die inside if I lost you forever."
"You won't lose me Mama, but how am I suppose to get stronger and protect you if you don't let me help? I don't want to lose you either Mama. I want to help. I may not be as strong as you, but I can still help. Uncle Shingo wants to help to. He feels the same way about you. You know that we would be careful and Setsuna and Hotaru will always be there to help." Chiba-Usa said leaning into Usagi's arms.
Kissing the top of her head Usagi hugged her tightly. "I see your point. We'll talk about this more after our new friends have left."
"Ok Mama." Chiba-Usa said then grinned mischievously. "So when are you going to tell Wufei?"
"What are you talking about?" Usagi asked a little confused.
"When are you going to tell Wufei you like him, baka." Chiba-Usa replied
"I..I don't like him. Well at not least like that." Usagi stammered a little.
Chiba-Usa noticed the slight blush on Usagi's face and smiled. "Right." Chiba-Usa drawled.
Just then the teapot screeched.
"Why don't you take in the snacks Chiba-Usa and I'll be right there with the tea." Usagi suggested to Chiba-Usa. Chiba-Usa smiled at how awkward she had made her future mother and took the tray full of goodies out into the living room.
Entering the living room she place the tray on the coffee table. "Usagi- mama will be out with the tea shortly. I hope you like the snacks." Chiba- Usa said politely.
Seeing the cake Duo immediately grabbed a peace and started to eat it. "Wow! This cake is great!"
"Why thank you, Duo. I'm glad my cake turned out so well." Usagi said walking in with the tray of tea. Placing it on the coffee table beside the snacks she placed a cup in front of each of them. "What type of tea would you like. I have green tea and regular tea." As she was asking she poured some green tea in a cup and handed it to Wufei without really realizing it. The others noticed it though and Duo put that away in his head to tease Wufei about later. Wufei didn't think anything of it. Seeing how he walked her home everyday from school and he would always have a cup of green tea before leaving.
"Regular tea." Duo and Trowa said at the same time while Heero asked for green tea. Pouring the tea she then stood up. "If you will excuse me I'm going to check on Hotaru and Quatre." Usagi stated before leaving.
Heading to the guestroom Usagi walked in and closed the door behind her. Upon entering she saw Quatre resting on the bed and Hotaru slouched in the chair. Hearing the door open and close Hotaru smiled weakly when she saw Usagi.
"Are you all right, Hotaru?" Usagi asked concerned.
"Hai. I'm just a little weak and tired right now. Quatre will be fine. He will have to rest here for the night though. I doubt his friends will let him stay here alone so we will have to prepare rooms for them."
"Fine but let's get you to your room. I'll bring up some tea and a piece of the cake I made last night and some sandwiches Chiba-Usa made." Usagi said as she helped Hotaru up. Walking out of the room they headed to Hotaru's room. Once there Usagi helped her into bed and made sure she was comfortable.
"Usagi that youma was different from the rest. I can't place how though."
"I noticed that to. It didn't even say what it was. It seemed like it was after energy, but I wonder what type. It was just going randomly for people."
"When the next one shows up we will have to find out some answers before destroying it."
"Maybe. I'll talk to Setsuna later and see what she knows." Usagi said
"That's a good idea. She can ask Merian what is going on in the time stream."
"Who's Merian?" Usagi asked curious
"Oh that's right I didn't tell you! Merian is Setsuna's temporary replacement." Hotaru answered.
"What!" Usagi exclaimed
"Shhh. Quiet down. Chronos decided it was high time that Setsuna had a vacation and somewhat of a normal life. So he convinced some people to allow Merian, who is basically a spirit, to guard the gates for awhile."
"Oh that is wonderful. I have a feeling school is going to be out for awhile so that means we can spend more time together. I'll have to thank Chronos later. Well get some rest and we'll talk some more tomorrow." Usagi said walking to the door.
"See you tomorrow." Hotaru said before drifting off to sleep.
***************
Shingo was getting bored. Everyone was so quiet and every time he'd try to start a conversation it would only last about a minute. Seeing how no one was going to talk Shingo decided he was going to play a video game. The games they had now were great. The visual effects and story were impressive. Getting up he turned to Setsuna. "I'm going to the game room, Aunt Setsuna. School has been canceled until further notice so no homework."
Duo was bored as well and sighed. The only one trying to start a conversation was Shingo and Duo was trying to think of something to do besides talk. Hearing where Shingo was going Duo couldn't resist asking to come along. "Hey you have a game room. Mind if I come along. I need something to do."
Shingo looked at Duo and nodded his head. "Sure come on." Shingo said and headed out of the room.
Chiba-Usa glared at Shingo's direction and stood up. "Hey wait for me! You're not playing with out me!" She shouted running after him.
Setsuna looked at the rest of the boys and smiled. "If you would like you can go to the game room as well. I'm sure there are bound to be games in there that you would like. There is even a VR game in there with the latest game. I believe it is called 'Hunter' (Don't know if there is a game called that. Just made it up.)
Heero perked up at this. He had heard about that game and it was one of the rare ones to catch his attention. If he remembered correctly it could be played in teams or against others. The objective of the game was to kill your enemy or enemies. The enemies could be the others in the game and the monsters.
"Follow me and I'll show you where the game room is." Setsuna said walking out into the hallway.
Heero looked at the others, stood, and followed. Walking down the hall they followed Setsuna and stopped when she started to open a door with a golden V on it. Stepping in they were amazed at the size of the game room. It was they were in truly in an arcade room. As soon as they entered fully they saw Duo grinning happily.
"The VR room is through there." Setsuna said pointing at a door across from them. "Have fun. I'm going to take care of some business."
"Bye Aunt Setsuna." Shingo and Chiba-Usa said and then started putting on their VR suits.
"There are some extras over there in the closet if you want to play." Shingo said pointing to the open closet.
Duo grabbed one immediately and started to put on. "Oh man this is going to be so great!"
The other three looked at each other debating whether or not to play. Chiba-Usa noticed their hesitation and walked over to them. "Please play with us. If you're worried about Quatre or embarrassing yourselves don't worry. Quatre is in the best of hands and I won't tell a soul that you played." Still seeing doubt she went for the one thing that always succeeded. Putting on her famous puppy face she asked in a sweet voice tinged with hope, "Please?"
Duo and Shingo had to keep from laughing at what Chiba-Usa was doing or they would have ruined the mood. Shingo knew that look and so far to his knowledge no one could refuse it. Usagi did the same thing when she really wanted something and although he didn't want to give in he always did.
Wufei grimaced at that look she was giving them. He knew what she was doing because she had done that to him before. He wanted to say no but couldn't with that look. He knew it was a trick, but if he said no he would feel bad for saying it. Then she would go to the next step and act hurt making you feel worse so that you had to say yes just to make her feel better. He didn't want to go through that right now so head nodded his head and grabbed at suit mumbling about little onnas and their tricks.
Trowa looked at Chiba-Usa and just nodded his head. He knew it was better to just agree then fight it. Catherine would do this to him every now and then as well. He doesn't know how his sister did it but when she used that face he just couldn't refuse her. **It has to be a girl thing.** he thought as he started to put on his suit.
Heero wasn't sure how to handle this. No one had ever given him that look before not even Relena. He wanted to say no but just looking into her eyes he couldn't for fear of making her cry. And that was the last thing needed. Yes he was afraid of people crying. He had never really cried much. When he was around someone who cried he didn't know how to make them stop. He never had to worry about that before. When he saw Wufei and Trowa start putting on suits he thanked them mentally. He now could just Hn and make it seem he was only doing it because the others were.
Chiba-Usa waited for Heero's answer and was prepared to go to the next step if needed.
"Hn." She heard Heero say and watched as he grabbed a suit and started putting it on.
Smiling Chiba-Usa skipped over to Shingo and Duo.
"One day someone will tell you and Usagi no when you guys put on that look. And when that day happens I'll be there with a recorder." Shingo said smiling
"Does Usagi look as pitiful as that?" Duo asked chuckling a little.
"Worse. I don't know how that Odanga Atama does it." Shingo said
"Odango whata?" Duo asked confused
"It means dumpling head. Though Meatball head is another translation." Shingo answered
"Why call her that?" Duo asked still confused.
Hearing the conversation Wufei became curious and moved closer to Duo and Shingo.
"Well because of her hair style. You noticed how different it is, right?" Shingo asked
"Umm, yeah it's in to balls with streamers down. Never saw anyone put their up like that before."
"Well because it is in balls that is where part of Odanga Atama comes from. It looks like dumpling or meatballs. Then the fact that at the old school she was always failing her classes until recently." Shingo said
"Don't forget that she also hates that name. You should she her when she's called that name! It is so funny! I'd describe it for you but you would have to see it for yourselves." Chiba-Usa said laughing.
Wufei smirked and stored that little piece of information away for later.
"So what game are we playing?" Duo asked wanting to play.
"Umm, well we were either thinking 'Hunter' or 'Heroes of Pathalin'." Shingo replied
"I know what Hunter is about, but what is 'Heroes of Pathalin'?" Duo asked.
"It's your basic roleplaying game. Though there is a setting where you can fight each other." Shingo said
"What would you guys prefer?" Chiba-Usa asked. "You are our guests after all."
"I'd say go ahead and play 'Hunter'. Heero would like that better than the other one." Duo answered after some thought.
"Great! Maybe I can win this time." Shingo answered happily
"Yeah! I might even have a chance at it now." Chiba-Usa replied
"I take it you lose a lot." Trowa inquired
"Only when we play Usagi. I don't know how she does it either. And its only this game, Heroes of Pathalin, and the Sailor V games that she's good at. All the others she loses terribly." Shingo answered as he set everything up for the game. "Ok it's ready. So let's go. I set it so that everyone is against everyone. All you have to do is select your colors and then enter the room."
"Cool." Duo said and chose black running into the room
Chiba-Usa picked pink while Shingo choose yellow.
Heero picked red and Trowa picked green while Wufei decided on blue.
*************
Usagi walked into the living room to see no one there and wondered where everyone went. Setsuna walked up to Usagi cleared her throat so she would know that she was behind her. Turning around Usagi saw Setsuna and smiled.
"Heard about your two weeks. I'm glad you finally have some time off. So where is everyone?"
"In the VR room." Setsuna answered
"Good then that gives us time to talk." Usagi said taking a seat.
"Youmas have started to reappear, but there is something different about them. They seem a little smarter, but not by much. Or at least the one we destroyed wasn't, but what was interesting was that when it took Quatre's energy it didn't return like it normally would back home. In fact if it hadn't been for Hotaru using her healing Quatre would be in a coma right now. The other students didn't seem to be as drained as Quatre was so that may explain why they were able to return too normal. So the guys may be staying the night. Quatre can't be move right now so he has to stay here. Have you seen anything in the Time Gates?"
Setsuna listened to her princess and sat in thought. Getting a far away look her eyes she grimaced at bit and then returned too normal. Looking at Usagi she shook her head no. "No. There is nothing wrong as of yet in the Time Streams. Merian says everything is fine at the gates. The future is clouded at the moment for me. It seems that Time does not wish me to see the possibilities or outcomes this time. We will have to wait for the enemy to show itself again. I also think that we will need to train Chiba- Usa and Shingo. We may need them."
Usagi grimaced at that information. "You are right, but why Shingo?"
"He now posses the power of the moon like you do so he is able to transform like you, but he won't be able to use it until I find Luna and Artemis."
"Luna and Artemis are alive?" Usagi asked surprised.
"Hai they are. I just don't know where they are. The war there has escalated so much that I am having trouble pinpointing their location. I do know that they are alive though."
"I hope you find them soon. I thought they had died. I hope they don't think that I had forgotten them. Do you think they'll think that?" Usagi asked concerned.
"No. They love you greatly."
"Hope you are right." Usagi whispered.
"I know I am. You were under a lot of grief and stress. With all the destruction you were lucky to find Shingo. They would understand that." Setsuna said walking over to her princess and wrapping her arms around her.
"Could you ask Merian to help you look?" Usagi asked
"Hai. I'm sure she'll be happy to. Now how about going and playing with your daughter and brother. I believe they are playing 'Hunter'."
Smiling at Setsuna she laughed a little. "You know how much I love that game. That's not being fair."
"Fair? I have no idea what you are talking about." Setsuna said acting innocent
"Don't play innocent." Usagi said getting up. Placing a hand on Setsuna's shoulder Usagi said, "Thank You, my friend."
"Try and be happy with your new life Hime. You still have people who care for you."
"I know Puu." Usagi said using the nickname she had given Setsuna so long ago. "Don't worry. As long as I have my friends and family I'll always be happy." With that being said Usagi left.
Setsuna watched as Usagi left and sighed. **Please Father, let her be happy here. She has had enough sorrow to last many lifetimes.** She thought before getting up and going to check on Hotaru and Quatre.
******************
Yeah I finished! I couldn't find a good place to stop. Well that and Writer's block.
I've already started the next chapter so it should be out in a week. I hope that you liked it.
Now all I have to do is finish the other chapter for A New Enemy? and Hope. (My Gundam Wing fics) It's wonderful to be writing again!
Well gotta get on finishing that next chapter!
Bye-Bye
BubblyOne
