Notice me
Take my hand
Why are we
Strangers when
Our love is strong
Why carry on without me?

Everytime I try to fly
I fall without my wings
I feel so small
I guess I need you baby
And everytime I see you in my dreams
I see your face, it's haunting me
I guess I need you baby

I make believe
That you are here
It's the only way
I see clear
What have I done
You seem to move on easy

And everytime I try to fly
I fall without my wings
I feel so small
I guess I need you baby
And everytime I see you in my dreams
I see your face, you're haunting me
I guess I need you baby

I may have made it rain
Please forgive me
My weakness caused you pain
And this song is my sorry

Ohhhh

At night I pray
That soon your face
Will fade away

And everytime I try to fly
I fall without my wings
I feel so small
I guess I need you baby
And everytime I see you in my dreams
I see your face, you're haunting me
I guess I need you baby

After all...
After all...

Britney Spears - Everytime

Chapter 21

Three months later

Pen Pen opened the door to his fridge and looked out. It was still dark out. A quick glance at the clock showed it to be almost 6am.

The sun would be rising soon.

The penguin quickly waddled to the beer fridge, made sure he was grabbing a beer, then step out onto the balcony. The first rays of the sun were just beginning to peek over the horizon. Pen Pen took a sip of his beer, then closed his eyes and listened, as he done every morning for the past 3 months. He waited for a long time, until his face began to get warm from the sun, and yet he listened.

And heard nothing.

Just like every other morning for the past 3 months.

He opened his eyes. The sun was now floating in the sky. He turned and waddled back into the house. He went up the stairs, and peered into one of the bedrooms. Curled up on her bed, clutching a picture to her chest was Sayoko. He knew she was awake, her eyes were open. The only sign that she was alive was her shaky breath, as if she had been crying all night, and the blinking of her eyes. Dark circles under her eyes showed she had not slept, and her blue eyes had tinges of red, showing that she had indeed been crying. Pen Pen closed the door and waddled back down the stairs. He went and sat on the couch and turned on the TV, but his mind was on the goddess upstairs.

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"How is she?"

Celes sighed as she stared at the image of Belldandy before her on the computer screen.

"I'm not really the right person to ask." She replied, "I don't know what she was like before."

"From your prospective then, how is she?"

"She hasn't been sleeping well at all." Celes said, "I can even hear her crying at night. But when I go over to talk to her, she claims she's fine."

"Like mother like daughter." Belldandy muttered softly, "I had hoped that trait wasn't passed over."

"She does seem to perk up for a bit when Asuka or Rei shows up." Celes said.

"That's because they talk about Kensuke." Belldandy said, "They all grew up together, so most of the things they did include him." Belldandy then smiled, "So how have you been Miss Victoria?"

Celes smiled, "Not bad. I think I've gotten the gist of the Japanese language now."

"What about the climate?"

"Much nicer then England. To be honest, the constant cold and rain was really bothering me. And being out in the sun, it makes me feel……..alive again."

"Funny to hear a vampire talk about enjoying the sun." Belldandy said.

"I'm not that kind of vampire." Celes said.

"Very true." Belldandy said with a nod, "You haven't experienced any problems at all?"

"No. Why?"

"Just after the incident with the demons and aliens, we set up a large demon ward over the town. We put a lot of power into it, so it should still be active."

Celes was confused. "What does that have to do with me?"

"You're a vampire. We weren't sure if it would affect you or not."

"Oh."

"If you feel anything funny, let us know and well adjust it." Belldandy said. Her face then changed to one of concern. "Keep an eye on her Celes."

"I will."

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That evening

"There's a festival this weekend."

Matagu Shido looked at his friend, Hyosuke Magumo.

"So?"

"Don't you see? It'll be perfect!" Hyosuke shouted, "We can figure out who it is that Kei likes!"

"And we want to do this why?" asked Matagu.

"Aren't you even curious?!" Hyosuke slapped Matagu on the back. "He turned down Herikawa! One of the best looking girls in class. Who's left?!?"

Matagu shrugged. "I don't know."

"EXACTLY! That's why we have to go to the festival! To see who he sneaks off with."

"What makes you think he'll go to the festival anyway?"

"We all go. You, me, Kaeda, Morino, Herikawa, and Kei." Hyosuke grinned, "It'll be perfect! He can't say no."

"You know that if Morino comes, Kamishiro, Miyafuji, and Onodera will come." Matagu said, "Kasumi-Sensei might be with them, after all she's been around Morino a lot lately."

"mmmmmm Kasumi-sensei." Hyosuke said with a gleam in his eye.

Matagu frowned. "Don't you already have Misumi."

Hyosuke frowned, "Of course I have Kaede. I can still look, just not touch."

Hyosuke walked over to his phone. "I'll call everyone and let them know."

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"A what?" Mizuho asked.

"A festival." replied Kei, "We have them every once in awhile. One for Cherry Blossoms, for Winter, Summer, stuff like that. You can get all sorts of food, play games, and they usually end with fireworks."

Mizuho brightened up. "Really? I've never been to an earth festival. Sounds like fun."

"Yeah, but Hyosuke and the others are going to be there."

Mizuho's face fell. "Oh……."

"Exactly." Kei sat down and sighed, "So we won't be able to go together."

Mizuho sighed, then perked up. "Ichigo Morino knows. Maybe we could tell the others." Kei gave her a look. "…..then again maybe not."

"Sorry Mizuho, but somehow I don't see Hyosuke keeping our marriage and the fact you're an alien a secret."

Mizuho was quiet for several moments.

"Do you ever regret marrying me?"

Kei looked up at her. "What?"

Mizuho gave him a weak smile.

"I mean without me, your life would be a lot easier. No secrets, no sneaking around, no…….." Mizuho stopped speaking as Kei wrapped his arms around her.

"Also no Mizuho." Kei said softly, "And I like having you in my life."

Mizuho's eyes teared up. "Kei………"

Kei tipped her head back slightly and kissed her.

"Noh….." Marie said softly, hearts in his eyes.

When they finished the kiss, Kei sat next to Mizuho who clung to him tightly. Kei started thinking.

'Mizuho has never been to a festival. I can't let her go alone, but the we can't be seen together. Who can…….'

Kei sat up.

"What is it Kei?"

Kei smiled, "What about Sayoko and Celes?"

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"A what?"

Kei sighed into the phone. "A festival. What? You people never had festivals in England?"

"Listen here boy." Celes said, "I know what a bloody festival is. I've just never heard of them here in Japan."

"Well there is a bunch of us from school going to one this weekend. And I was wonder if you two were interested."

"Great. Just the way I want to spend my weekend, hanging out with a bunch of teenagers."

"Look you won't be hanging out with us." Kei said, "You'll be hanging out with my wife, Mizuho."

"Oh the Alien." Celes glanced up in the general direction of Sayoko's room. "I'll ask her. But there is no guarantee that she'll agree."

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Celes opened the door to Sayoko's room. Sayoko was sitting on the bed, facing away from the door.

"Are you awake?"

Sayoko nodded her head.

"There's a festival this weekend."

"I know." Sayoko said softly.

"You want to go?"

"What for?"

Celes frowned. "Look I've never been to one of these festivals. And since you've lived in this country long enough, I expect you to show me around one." Celes shrugged. "Besides, Kei wants Mizuho to have some company. So you and me are it."

"Not interested." came the quiet reply.

Celes walked over and spun Sayoko around. "Look you! I've had just about enough of this pity me bullshit. Yes, the love of your life is dead. But you're not! You have to move on! Now you and I are going to this festival and we are bloody well going to enjoy ourselves! Do you understand me?!" Celes face was twisted up in a snarl, revealing her vampire teeth.

"Fine." muttered Sayoko, "We'll go. Are you happy?"

Celes smiled. "Yes actually." She then left the room humming to herself.

Sayoko glared at her back as she exited.

"She does that again, I'm going after her with a wooden stake." muttered Sayoko.

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"Well?"

"We haven't detected any of the power signatures from 3 months ago. However we have picked up a power signature. One of ours."

"Is it one of the satellites?"

"No sir. It originates in the area our last reporter was living in."

"……..The one that made personal contact with the earthlings?"

"Yes sir. Mizuho Kasumi."

"She's still missing isn't she?"

"Yes sir."

"Prepare a ship."

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That weekend.

The group of nine teens walked together towards the festival. The girls were all dressed in their best kimonos.

"So he's really your brother?" asked Matagu.

Karen Onodera nodded, "Yep. I found out in an old book I found."

"And you don't mind the fact that Miyafuji lives with you and is his girlfriend.?"

"They wouldn't think of……" Karen's voice trailed off as she watched Miina grabbed Maiku's arm and lean forward to kiss him.

"Nayuuuu." Karen muttered as she fell face forward.

"Hey! Kamishiro!" shouted Matagu.

"Karen!" Maiku and Miina raced over to help Karen.

Further in front of the group, Kei and Ichigo were talking.

"She's really that bad off?" asked Ichigo.

"She's…..well she's acting different then what she was when she was first here." Kei said, "When she came to the apartment back in December she looked horrible. She'd lost a lot of weight and just looked sickly. She looks better now, but not by much."

"Well she did lose her lover." Ichigo said.

"I know." said Kei, "If I lost Mizuho, I don't know what I'd do. But she's a Goddess. She has responsibilities. She has to move forward."

"Give her a bit more time." Ichigo said, "Maybe she'll pull out of it."

"Yeah."

"So where is Sensei?"

Kei looked around. "I don't know. She should be here with that British woman and Miss Morisato."

"KASUMI-SENSEI!" came Hyosuke's cry.

"Guess we found her." Ichigo said with a smile.

"Kasumi-sensei!" shouted Hyosuke again, "Who are you here with? Your husband?"

Mizuho smiled, "Uh no…my husband isn't with me." 'He's over there with you.' "I'm here with some friends. This is Celes Victoria. She's from England."

Matagu, Hyosuke, and Maiku stared and Celes and did the typical male reaction to her: The stared at her chest. The other girls, Koishi, Kaede, Ichigo, Karen, and Miina, also stared at Celes, and had feelings of inadequacy.

"Hello." Celes said.

"…..And I'm sure you all remember Sayoko Morisato."

Most of the teens gasped slightly as Sayoko came into view. The last time many of them had seen her was at the school. She had been so vibrant and full of life. Now she seemed so sad. Her eyes were very dull.

"Well then." Began Mizuho, "What were you all up to?"

"We were going to head over to the arcade." said Koishi, "The boys need to prove their manhood to their girlfriends by winning prizes."

"HEY!" shouted Maiku, Hyosuke, and…..Kei?

"Who's your girlfriend Kei?" asked Matagu.

"I….I….uh….I…well…." Kei began to stutter.

"Come on Kei." Hyosuke grabbed Kei around the shoulders and began to lead him away. "You can tell us on the way over."

Miina grabbed hold of Maiku's arm.

"You're going to win me something right?"

"I uhh."

Karen grabbed hold of his other arm.

"And he's going to win his sister something."

"I…..uhh."

The two girls lead Maiku off.

Mizuho looked at Celes and Sayoko. Sayoko seemed to be slightly peeved about something.

"Well?" asked Mizuho, "You want to watch?"

"Watch?!" Celes flexed her arms a bit, "I'm going to shatter their masculinity. Come on."

The three older woman left, leaving Koishi, Kaede, and Ichigo behind.

"There's something wrong with Miss Morisato." Koishi said.

"Yeah." said Kaede, "Is she sick or something?"

"Something like that." Ichigo said. 'Heartache can be considered a sickness I suppose.'

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"Sir?"

"Hmm?"

"We have entered orbit and have begun to scan the planet."

"And?"

"We have found the life signs of Mizuho Kasumi. She is on the planet."

"Bring us in. Assemble a squad to arrest her."

"Yes sir."

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"Can you at least fake that your having a good time?" asked Celes.

Sayoko glared at the Vampire. "You said I had to come. I came. You said nothing about enjoying myself."

"Can't you at least try?"

"How can I try when everywhere I look I see that!" Sayoko pointed. Celes looked over to see a happy couple kissing after the boyfriend had won something for his girl.

"So don't look at stuff like that."

"You think it's that easy don't you." Sayoko muttered, "I'm surrounded by happiness, joy, and love. And right now, it's making me sick." Sayoko turned and started to walk away.

"Where are you going?!?"

"Home." replied Sayoko, "And don't you even think of trying to stop me."

Celes watched as Sayoko vanished into the crowd.

'Bloody hell girl. You need to move on.'

Celes turned and walked back toward the others. Mizuho saw her approach.

"Where is…..?"

"She left. Where's Maiku, Karen, and Miina."

"Karen fainted when one of the fish jumped at her. They took her home."

"Oh." Celes frowned. "What are you holding?"

Mizuho held up the small net. "I'm not really sure." She looked over at Kei.

"You use that to catch goldfish." Kei said.

"And then what do we do with them?" asked Celes.

"You keep them of course." said Koishi.

"For what?" asked Mizuho, "They look kind small to eat."

"You don't eat them!" shouted Kei, "You take them home and raise them!"

"So they get bigger and then you eat them?" asked Mizuho.

"NO!" shouted Kei and Koishi together.

"Geez." said Koishi, "What planet were you born on?"

Mizuho started to open her mouth when a panicked look from Kei silenced her. On the other side of the tank, Kaede, Hyosuke, and Ichigo were showing off the fish they had caught.

"Hey!" shouted Hyosuke, "Let's go get some food and find a spot to sit down."

This was agreed to. The group then headed off towards the food area.

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"Target is acquired. She is with a bunch of locals."

"Apprehend the target. Mind wipe the locals but do not harm them."

"Roger."

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Minutes later everyone was sitting off out of view of the festival in the grass. Kaede and Hyosuke sat next to each other. Celes was sitting next to Koishi talking about Europe, England in particular. Kei had somehow been maneuvered next to Mizuho by Ichigo, much to the couples joy. Everyone was enjoying themselves when 4 men in gray uniforms stepped out.

"Galaxy Reporter Mizuho Kasumi." One of the men said. "You are to come with us."

Mizuho paled. The others looked around confused.

"What's going on?!?!" asked Hyosuke, "Sensei hasn't done anything wrong."

"Yeah!" added Matagu, "Who are you people?"

"Galactic Security Forces." The man said, "Mizuho Kasumi. The Galactic Command has issued orders for your arrest."

Kei was on his feet, standing in front of Mizuho. "You can't take her back! I won't go through this again! Just let her be!"

"Move aside human." The man said, "The Fugitive Kasumi must be returned."

"Look I don't know what's going on here," Hyosuke said, "But I'm not going to let you take Miss Kasumi."

"Me either." added Matagu.

The other teens nodded their heads. Celes moved in front of the kids.

"Your presence is not wanted here." She said, "Leave."

The leader looked at the others. "Hit them with the beam."

The security men pulled out small guns and fired a beam that traveled about 2 feet away from them before it disappeared.

"What?" the men looked at their guns. Celes smiled and pulled out her own gun.

"I suggest you leave now." She said.

"Michel." shouted the leader, "Target the human with the weapon and fire."

"Noh!"

Kei looked over to see a small figure, just like Marie. It's eyes glowed and fired out a beam that slammed into Celes. Celes cried out and her gun roared as her hand spasmed. One of the Security Force men was hit in the shoulder. He spun about and fell to the ground.

"Dammit!" shouted the leader. "Michel! Lock onto us and the fugitive and teleport us to the ship. This is a priority one!"

"NOH!"

Around the Security Force men sparkles began to appear. Sparkles appeared around Mizuho as well.

"KEI!" Mizuho screamed.

"MIZUHO!" cried out Kei. He leaped at Mizuho, but she vanished before he reached her.

"What the hell is going on?!?!" shouted Matagu, "Who were those people?"

"Probably from Sensei's home planet." Ichigo said quietly as she walked over to Celes, who was being attended to by Kaede.

"Her WHAT!?!??!" shouted all the teens but Kei.

Ichigo ignored the comment and knelt down next to Kaede. Kaede had her hand against Celes neck. She looked at Ichigo in a panic.

"She's doesn't have a pulse!"

Ichigo's eyes widened. "Do you know CPR?"

"Wait!" Kei walked over. "Don't do that." He nudged Celes. "Wake up."

"Kei, she doesn't have a pulse." said Ichigo.

Kei ignored Ichigo. He bent down and shouted into Celes ear. "WAKE UP DAMMIT!"

"OW!!!" Celes sat up and snarled at Kei, showing off her fangs. "What the bloody hell did you do that for!"

Ichigo and Kaede were shocked. "What the……"

"She has fangs?!" shouted Kaede.

"She was dead!" Ichigo shouted.

"I've BEEN dead." replied Celes. She rubbed her side where she had been shot. "Bloody hell that hurts."

"But……"

"She's a vampire." Kei said. Everyone looked at him in shock. "And Mizuho is an Alien, and my wife."

Koishi's eyes narrowed. "You have a lot of explaining to do."

"Can we explain on the way back to his apartment?" asked Celes, "I really need a bandage or something. Otherwise, I might get hungry."

Everyone decided that heading for the apartment and talking wasn't a bad idea.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Maho was sitting back watching TV when the door opened.

"Hey how was the……" Maho's voice trailed off as the large group entered. "What's going on?"

"Are you really an Alien?" asked Hyosuke.

Maho eyes widened. She then looked at Kei. "Why the hell did you tell them?!?!"

"Maho." began Kei, "Mizuho got taken by the Galactic Security Forces. At least that's what they said they were."

"WHAT!?!?"

"How can we get her back?" asked Kei.

Maho's mind was all in a blur. "Um……well……..technically, she's a fugitive. She broke more laws when she came back here. They can either hold her on the last charge, or charge her with the new ones. Either way, they would take her back to headquarters."

"Can't we do anything?" asked Koishi.

Maho shrugged, "I can call Mom. But depending on where she is, she may not be able to get back to the headquarters in time."

"How long from Earth to Galactic Headquarters?" asked Celes.

"Maybe 2 or 3 days."

"How long to contact your mom?"

"It's not like I can just dial her up." Maho said, "The message to her could take 3 to 4 days to reach her, then time for her to return to headquarters…..it'd  be too late."

Celes got up and headed towards the door. Kei frowned.

"Where are you going?"

Celes looked back at Kei. "Going to the only one who might be able to help."

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Celes opened the front door and entered, followed by the others.

"She's really a goddess?" Kaede said, still a bit skeptical.

Hyosuke elbowed Matagu in the side. "Hey maybe she's the one we saw last fall."

Matagu shrugged. Celes looked into the living room. Pen Pen was sitting on a chair watching TV, holding a beer. Even Kei, who had seen a lot of weird things at this point was staring at the penguin.

"Is she upstairs?" Celes asked the bird.

"Do you really think a penguin is going to…." began Koishi.

"Wark!" replied Pen Pen.

"What is it?"

Celes turned to see Sayoko staring at her from the stairs. Kei stepped forward.

"I need your help." Kei said, "Mizuho was arrested by Galactic Security."

Sayoko stared at Kei. Kei continued.

"We need your help to get her back."

Sayoko turned away. "I can't help you."

Kei stared at her stunned. "Why not?! You're a Goddess!"

Sayoko whirled around. "Yes! I'm a Goddess! But there are rules I have to follow! I can't interfere with mortal affairs!"

Koishi stepped forward. "Please, can't you help just this once? Can't you see how much he's hurting without………"

"Hurting?!" Sayoko shouted, "What do you know of hurting?!"

Celes narrowed her eyes. "Dammit Sayoko! You have to get over it! It's wasn't your fault!"

"Yes it was!" Sayoko shouted, "I made the promise that I'd be there for him! And when he needed me I couldn't help him!"

"And what would he think of you now?" asked Celes, "You are the Goddess of the Present, stop living in the past! What is done is done. You have to move on!"

"I can't……"

"Can't or won't?"

Sayoko was silent.

Celes turned and looked at Kei and Maho.

"Let's go." Celes said, "We're not going to get any help from her."

The group left. Sayoko remained standing on the stairs. She glanced over into the living room to see Pen Pen staring at her.

"Shut up." She muttered. She then returned to her room.

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The group walked quietly back to Kei and Mizuho's apartment.

"Do you think we have a chance?" asked Kei.

Celes glanced at Kei.

"Sayoko was our best shot at rescuing her." Celes said, "Now………"

"We need a miracle?" asked Kei.

"Miracles are granted by the Gods." Celes said, "This time we are on our own."

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Sayoko sat on her bed, staring at the picture of Kensuke.

"What would you think of me?" she asked the picture softly. She stood up and place the picture back on her dresser, then looked up at her mirror. She knew exactly what Kensuke would think. The person staring back at her was not the Sayoko he knew. Sayoko was a beautiful, kind, caring Goddess, not this pitiful, miserable creature staring at her from within the mirror. Sayoko grabbed the jewelry box and tossed it at the mirror. The mirror shattered into pieces. Among the pieces of glass that fell to the floor was an envelope. Sayoko fell to her knees, not caring that she was being cut by broken glass and picked up the envelope. It was the envelope from Kensuke that Asuka had given her. She tore the envelope open and began to read the letter.

Several minutes later the now tear stained letter lay on the floor. The only sign of the rooms occupant was the fading glow coming from a piece of the mirror.

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The Heavens

Everyone that saw her was surprised. All had heard of what had happened to her, but they hadn't know how far she had fallen.

Mist was rounding the corner when she spotted her. The Valkyrie's jaw fell.

"Sayoko?"

Sayoko gave a weak smile. "Hello Mist. Is Grandfather in his office?"

"Well he uh….Yes he is." Mist said, "He's in there with your mother. IN fact, I'm supposed to have a meeting with him and Guardian Asuka."

Sayoko took a deep breath. "I need to see him."

"I'll escort you right over." Mist replied.

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Kami-sama, Belldandy, and Asuka were waiting for Mist to appear when the door opened. Mist entered, followed by someone they did not expect. Belldandy was instantly on her feet.

"SAYOKO!" Belldandy pulled her daughter into a tight hug.

"Mom!" Sayoko returned the hug as best she could. When Belldandy released her, Sayoko smiled at her mother before looking over at Asuka. Asuka smiled and nodded to her. Sayoko returned the nod, then looked at her Grandfather.

"Sayoko." He said softly.

Sayoko got down on her knee and bowed. "Grandfather."

Kami-sama frowned. "You've never bowed before me before, I've told you it was not required."

Sayoko remained silent, her face turned downward.

"What is you want?" he finally asked.

Sayoko looked up at him.

"The Extra-Terrestrial Mizuho Kasumi has been arrested by her people for breaking their laws by returning to the Earth. I wish to bring her back to her husband, the mortal Kei Kusenagi."

Kami-sama leaned back in his chair.

"What you ask cannot happen." He said.

"What?!" Asuka said with a shout, "Why not?!"

Kami-sama glanced at Asuka.

"We cannot interfere with the mortal world every time something happens that we don't like." Kami-sama said, "The only time we can interfere is if by wish or because the situation was caused by demon or god."

Asuka looked over at Belldandy. Belldandy shook her head.

"As nice as he is," Belldandy said, "Kei Kusenagi does not have a wish coming."

"And demons did not cause the current situation." Mist said, "It was mortals and mortals alone."

"Grandfather."

Everyone looked down at Sayoko.

"Yes Sayoko?" he asked.

"Suppose it could be shown that Mizuho Kasumi's presence on Earth could benefit heaven, and the mortals of the planet. Would interfering be acceptable then?"

Kami-sama leaned forward.

"Explain."

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One day later

Galactic Headquarters

Investigative Committee.

"Level C Planet Inspector Mizuho Kasumi." Came a voice from the darkness.

Mizuho appeared in a circle of light in her uniform.

"Are you she?"

"Yes." Mizuho said softly.

"You were convicted for revealing your true nature to an earth being, having physical contact with said being, and psychologically intervening with said being wasting system energy. You were condemed to Capital Punishment. You escaped and returned to the planet and once again revealed your nature to the earth being. Do you deny these charges?"

"No." she said softly.

 "Do you have anything to say for yourself?"

"Only that I would do it again." Mizuho said, "He is my husband. I love him."

"Irrelevant." The voice said, "We find you guilty. You are hearby sentenced to……."

"Hold!" came a female voice.

Another circle of light appeared, revealing two figures. Both wore blue and white robes and appeared at first to be twins. A closer look revealed that one had darker hair then the other, and the dark hair one seemed slightly sickly. Otherwise they were very beautiful. Mizuho recognized them right away.

"Belldandy? Sayoko?"

"Who dares disturb this committee?!" thundered the voice.

Belldandy took another step forward.

"I am the Goddess Belldandy." She said, "I have come to speak on behalf of Mizuho Kasumi."

"There are no such things as Goddesses." The voice said, "They are but legends from our past and have no bering on this case. Mizuho Kasumi has not denied that she has done these things, she will be punished accordingly."

Belldandy took another step forward.

"Goddesses are indeed real." Belldandy waved her hand and Blessed Bell came forth. Sayoko also waved her hand, bringing forth Morning Bell. Both Angels streached out their wings as wide as possible, then flew to either side of Mizuho. Belldandy looked back in the general direction of the committee.

"We are Goddesses." She said, "Even legends have a basis in fact. Though you no longer believe we exsist, still we are there."

"What do you want of us?" asked the voice.

"Mizuho Kasumi is to be restored her rank as Level C Planetary Investigator of Planet Delta Des-8228, also know as Earth." Belldandy said, "She and her family are to be the only ones allowed to observe and land on earth. No other Planetary Investigator nor any other ship or satilite will be permitted to approach the Earth unless it is an emergancy."

"And if we refuse?"

Sayoko stepped forward. "Then you will be denied space flight. All those in space now would be returned to this planet. You will forever be bound to the surface, denied to ever leave your planet again." Sayoko smiled, "And we will still take Mizuho Kasumi and her family back to Delta Des-8228."

All was quiet. Seconds dragged on into minutes. Finally, the voice spoke again.

"It is agreed. Mizuho Kasumi, you are restored to your rank of Level C Planetary Investigator, assigned to Planet Delta Des-8228. This matter is closed."

The two goddesses walked over to a stunned Mizuho. Blessed Bell and Morning Bell returned to their respective goddesses as Mizuho stared at them.

"You came for me? Why?"

Belldandy gave a small smile.

"It was pointed out to Kami-sama that we could better control any…….contamination, if we knew who the Galaxy Reporter was, rather then an unkown. Since you already know of us, it was determined you would be the best choice."

Mizuho rubbed her head. "But revealing yourselves. They are going to want report after report about you."

Belldandy gave Mizuho a pleasant smile. "I know. Someone wishes to speak with you about that."

Belldandy placed a hand on Mizuho's shoulder. All three then vanished in a flash of light.

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The two Goddesses and Mizuho appeared within a garden. A large building could be seen between breaks in the trees.

"Where are we?" Mizuho asked.

Belldandy smiled and motioned for her to follow. Sayoko walked silently behind Mizuho. They walked up to a large double door. The door opened as Belldandy approached. They entered the mid level of a large corridor. Mizuho walked up to the railing and looked up. The ceiling could just barely be seen. Far below, people wondered about looking like ants. Mizuho turned and looked at the two goddesses.

"This is the Heavens isn't it?" Mizuho asked, "Why bring me here?"

"As I said, someone would like to speak with you." Belldandy then walked off down a hallway.

They walked for several minutes, finally stopping at a massive door flanked on either side by Valkyries. The door opened and Belldandy and Sayoko entered, followed by a nervous Mizuho. As she entered, Mizuho looked around. The room was huge, book shelves lined all the walls but one. That one had a huge floor to ceiling window, overlooking a small garden, then the city of Heaven itself. In front of the window was a desk. A figure sat behind the desk. Two more stood off to the side. The light from the window rendered the figures as nothing but dark shapes. Belldandy and Sayoko both fell to one knee and bowed. Mizuho looked at them, and then back at the figures.

"Arise." came a deep pleasant voice, "Arise and approach."

Belldandy and Sayoko stood up and walked towards the desk, Mizuho following behind them. As they approached the desk, Mizuho was able to make out the figures. The two off to the side were Mist the Valkyrie and Asuka. Behind the desk sat a man. He appeared to be a kind and gentle person.

"So," the man said, "This is Mizuho Kasumi."

"Yes father." Belldandy said.

Mizuho's eyes widened. This was Kami-sama?!?"

"Indeed I am." Kami-sama said to Mizuho with a smile.

Mizuho gulped.

"Wh….what can I do for you sir?"

"It has to do with your position." Kami-sama said, "As Planetary Investigator, your job is to make reports on what you see on the planet. Several important people from heaven currently reside on the surface. That is where we have a problem." Kami-sama stood up and began to pace. "Since the dawn of time, we have run the universe, creating all life that exists there and tended to it. Though you can find thousands of shrines to us on planets all over the galaxy, we have remained hidden and a mystery to mortals." Kami-sama walked up to Mizuho. "Your reports could change that."

"My reports?"

Kami-sama walked over and placed a hand on Sayoko's shoulder.

"You are a friend of my granddaughter. You are one of very few who know of us. I would ask that you not mention anything about us in your reports. To do so would damage the faith people have in us."

"I understand." Mizuho said.

Kami-sama smiled, "I see why Sayoko sought you out when her memories returned." Kami-sama returned to his desk and sat down. "Now Mizuho Kasumi, I believe there is someone on the surface who is waiting for your return. Belldandy, Sayoko, return her to her husband."

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"Something's going on Maho." Hatsuho said, "Something big. Galactic Headquarters is all in an uproar."

Maho had Mizuho's laptop out and was speaking with her mother. Kei and Celes sat behind her on the couch. Ichigo, Koishi, Kaeda, Matagu, and Hyosuke, having determined they couldn't help, had left.

"Is it Mizuho?"

"No." Hatsuho replied, "That's the strange thing. From what I've been told, Mizuho has been reinstated as Planetary Inspector for Earth."

"What?" Kei leaned in. "I thought they stripped her of that a year ago."

"They did. But now she's reinstated and their pulling every ship and satellite away from that entire solar system."

"That doesn't make any sense." Maho said, "Why would they do that?!"

"Kei…….Maho…….." came Celes' voice.

Kei looked over. "What?!"

"Your mirror is glowing."

Kei and Maho snapped their heads over at the mirror on the wall. The mirror flashed bright white. Belldandy emerged from it, followed by Mizuho and Sayoko. Mizuho looked around slightly confused before she spotted her husband.

"KEI!" she shouted, running towards him.

"Mizuho!" Kei leaped from the couch and into Mizuho's arms.

Tears came from Maho's eyes.

"What is it?!?" came Hatsuho's voice, "What's happening?!"

"Mizuho's back!" Maho cried.

"WHAT?!? She's there?!" Hatsuho looked down at her control panel. "I should be there in a few hours. I expect a story from her when I arrive." Hatsuho then vanished from the screen.

While Mizuho and Kei embraced each other, Celes walked up to the two goddesses.

"I thought you couldn't interfere with the mortal world." Celes said, staring at Sayoko.

Belldandy looked at her daughter.

"Sayoko convinced Kami-sama it was in heavens best interest."

"Yeah well….." Sayoko looked down and kicked at the floor. "Someone told me I should stop living in the past."

Sayoko was then grabbed in a hug from Maho.

"Thankyouthankyouthankyouthankyou." She repeated over and over.

"Hey! Leggo!" Sayoko fell to the floor. "You're welcome! Now leggo!"

Belldandy smiled then looked at Celes.

"Things should be alright now. I wish I could stay longer, but Keiichi is expecting me."

"I understand." Celes said.

Sayoko had finally gotten free of Maho when she was grabbed by her mother.

"I assume your going to remain here?" Belldandy asked.

Sayoko nodded, "I'm just not ready to leave yet."

"I understand." Belldandy pulled her daughter to her closer. "You'll always have a room with your name on it. Keep in touch."

"Bye Mom," Sayoko said softly, returning her mother's embrace.

Belldandy stepped back and looked at Mizuho, Kei, Maho, and Celes.

"I expect you to take care of my daughter."

"Mom!" shouted Sayoko, "I'm not a little kid!"

"Don't worry," Celes said, "I'll keep her inline."

Belldandy smiled and vanished back into the mirror.

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That night.

Sayoko stared off into the night sky from the balcony of the house. Celes stepped out of the house and walked up next to Sayoko.

"My Master would call this a wonderful night." She said.

Sayoko glanced at the vampire. "Would he now?"

"Yeah, with the moon full like that." Celes sighed, "I wonder where he is."

"He's missing?"

"Not exactly. Last time I saw him he was going off somewhere with Sir Integra Hellsing. Some kind of special mission. Haven't heard from either of them since." Celes looked at Sayoko. "You're acting different. What happened?"

"A ghost from the past spoke to me." Sayoko said.

"Oh? What did Kensuke say?"

Sayoko scowled at Celes, "How did you…….."

"Asuka told me he left a letter for you. So give, what did he say?"

Sayoko looked back at the sky.

"That he loved me. That no matter what happened, he'd always be with me." Sayoko sighed, "And he was right, he is with me. Now I need some rest." Sayoko turned and walked back into the house. Celes stayed on the balcony for awhile longer. When she went to her room for the night, she stopped and peered into the goddess' room. For the first time in three months, Sayoko was sleeping, peacefully.

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Every night in my dreams
I see you, I feel you,
That is how I know you go on

Far across the distance
And spaces between us
You have come to show you go on

Near, far, wherever you are
I believe that the heart does go on
Once more you open the door
And you're here in my heart
And my heart will go on and on

Love can touch us one time
And last for a lifetime
And never let go till we're gone

Love was when I loved you
One true time I hold to
In my life we'll always go on

Near, far, wherever you are
I believe that the heart does go on
Once more you open the door
And you're here in my heart
And my heart will go on and on

You're here, there's nothing I fear,
And I know that my heart will go on
We'll stay forever this way
You are safe in my heart
And my heart will go on and on

Celine Dion – My Heart will go on

The next morning.

Pen Pen opened the door of his fridge and looked out. It was still early morning. Soon the sun would be peering out over the horizon. Pen Pen waddled to the fridge and grabbed a beer. He then waddled outside and looked off to the east. He took a gulp of beer and then closed his eyes. He felt warmth on his face as the first rays of sun hit him.

Still, he heard nothing.

He was about to open his eyes and return inside when the sound of singing drifted towards his ears, but it wasn't from the usual place on the balcony. Pen Pen opened his eyes and waddled down towards the lake. There, balanced on an old piling sticking out of the water, was Sayoko, in her full goddess dress. She was facing the sun, and looked better then she had in weeks. Though still rather thin, her eyes sparkled as they hadn't in a long while. Her voice carried out over the lake. Pen Pen felt as if he was in heaven. The song she sang that day eclipsed any he had heard her sing before. He knew then that she was fine and everything would turn out alright.

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Thank you to LD for all his helpful comments…and for letting me out of the dungeon every once in awhile to see the sun. By the order of LD, the next story is under way and will hopefully begin to be posted some time in the near future.

Thank you also to everyone who reviewed this fic.