Authors Notes-
Hello everyone! It's finally here. It took me about 5 hours, and a year of planning but it's finally here for your reading enjoyment. I sincerely hope that you enjoy it, and I poured my heart and soul into it so if you don't like it I will be crushed.
"make Heero and Usa meet," was the most common review, and for reasons obvious here, I haven't been able to do it until now.
So enjoy.
And PLEASE! Don't make this a waste of time for me. Review and tell me if it was or wasn't.
***
Usagi twirled the small knife through her fingers. Under the pointer finger, and then over her ring finger, and then through again in complex patterns she never would have dreamed she could do before. Her fingers were already so nimble from playing the 'harp' as was closest to the Aria that she could find, and so in only 2 weeks she had progressed rapidly. And in the process, she had gotten to know Trowa a little better, but he was still the silent one, and said as few words as possible.
But it was his attitude towards her that surprised her the most. It was almost like she would have once treated a lost and abused puppy, and she felt that he had some idea what she had been though. Or at least he had a clue as to the pain that she felt. And he tried to bring her out of her shell, but not so much to laugh as Duo. And he wasn't as friendly as Quatre, and he wasn't as gruff, but at the same time grudgingly accepting as Wufei. His presence was like a healing balm over old wounds, and just being around someone who was so much like her made her open up herself more than she would ever have believed to possible. And so she enjoyed her time with Trowa along with the rest of her day.
And the days continued to fly by, with nothing really interesting happening. Slowly she would progress with Quatres lessons on the piano and the flute, and she continued to diligently play her Aria, and in the quiet of her room, sing her soul. Sing the pain, and with the singing it would lessen. And her and Quatre became closer, with his quiet kindness, and his accepting love of anything she had to offer. Once she was sure she could have easily fallen for Quatre, as he was the opposite of everything that Mamoru was, and all that he represented. Sometimes they would talk about philosophy, and he would talk about the world as it used to be before the world. And he had the most hilarious stories to tell about his sisters! He had like 29 sisters, and I can only imagine what kind of torture it would be to be in that kind of environment! But it was also great because he loved his sisters so much, and there was a bond there that reminded her so much of her family, and sometimes late at night, she would dream of what she would say, and do if she went home to her family, and as the days flew by, the ache in her heart for her friends, and especially her brat brother grew stronger, and every night, she would shed one more tear.
Wufei continued to teach her what he could about self-defense, and even how she could use her wheel chair to her advantage. It was much faster than anyone could run if she wanted to do that, but he also taught her tricks to use the wheels to flip someone over her, and other things like that. He also taught her the essence of sword fighting, and even though with him all she could do was the arm movements, it was still quite an experience, and she learned so much. And she would watch his feet as he taught her, and then alone in her room she would get up and practice until she collapsed in her bed. And he would also teach her other sorts of martial arts, and even though sometimes when she looked at him she would seen that he didn't know why he was doing this, he never gave up on her. And their quiet friendship continued to develop, and he reminded her so much of her friend Rei that she couldn't help but get close to him, even as she tried to distance herself.
Duo was the strangest of all. He was so kind to her, and he still saw it as his personal job to make her laugh, and he was like her protector against the problems of the world. With him all of them just seemed to vanish, and it was just them together. Talking and laughing even sometimes. Duo would also sometimes to go the library and get some adventure stories, and when she was so tired from her hard day he would read to her until she finally couldn't stay awake anymore and fell into the world of dreams. And that was how she came to see a new side of Duo that no one had ever seen before. A caring side that would do anything to help her just a little bit. And she was left to constantly wonder why it was that he was so kind to her, and why he spent so much of his time to make her happy. She found herself coming closer to him than she ever had been to a friend before (and his isn't like hero, theirs was a different kind of love altogether) and when she was the most depressed about being away from home, Duo would be there to cheer her up, and take a load off for a little while.
So the days flew by, and blended together into the complex pattern that was her life. And she knew that there was no way that it could get better than it was now, and wished with all her heart that things would never change, and her life would go on like this forever.even though deep down, in a place she didn't want to look she knew that would never be possible.
*** In a dark room, voices spoke to one another.
1: I don't see the problem, so he's not doing anything. Maybe he's just going through an episode. He'll be over it in no time. 2: I don't think you're right Dr. S. I have a feeling that this is a little more permanent than you think it is. It is best to get him out of the picture all together. We can always find someone to take his place, but he already jeopardized one mission. We can't trust him as he is right now. 3: I don't think you're right there, Dr J. I'm sure if he was put into a familiar environment, he would be just fine. Something traumatic happened to him, and he just needs to be around places and people who are familiar, and he will go back to himself.
Dr. J looked at doctor T (I'm sorry, I'm just using letters) could he be serious? But all of the doctors he was with all agreed with one thing. They didn't think he should go through with his plan to kill Heero when he feels the time is right. They had been arguing for hours and they all seemed united for one of the first times he had ever seen them. United against him. And it was Dr. M that insisted that he should go somewhere familiar so he could go back to himself. And they all insisted that the environment he was in right now wasn't exactly conductive of getting back to normal. And then Dr. P insisted that he should get together with the other Gundam Pilots (they were all insane) because soon their talking about their cause, and just being themselves would force him to go back to the way that he once was. And the worst part was that soon he was finding himself slowly agreeing him, and his resolve began to fade. It was so simple, he would just put him back into an old environment, and soon surely he would have his perfect soldier back to the way that he was before. If nothing else it was worth a try, and it was better than killing the boy.
After day turned to night, and he had been thinking about it for hours he finally made a decision. He would need to go and inform Heero of the situation. After all, he would be leaving within the end of the week.
***
Heero listened as Dr. J's voice echoed through his small room, and tried to seem interested. This was a most interesting change in plans. And he tried to seem excited. After all he was going to be with his friends.his friends.who he had never met before.
He had no idea why Dr. J had come to this decision, and he had mixed feelings about it. He would be glad to get out and see more of the world, but he also knew that the cunning Dr surely had a reason for everything he did, and this would hardly be a different situation.
And he also knew that as much as he might not want to, he would probably give himself away. After all, he didn't have very much experience with people, and these were people who already knew 'him' as he was! How was he supposed to act anyway?
He had a vague idea of how he was before. After all, how can a body without a soul have any emotion? So in order to stay alive to find Usagi, would have to be like that? Would have to act as he had never acted before?
One thing was sure, he wasn't ever going to let anyone take him back here.although it was nice and all, there was so much of the world that he wanted to see with his own eyes. To touch with his own hands, and to smell with his own nose. He had briefly glimpsed what was out there, and then it had all been taken away from him, and he was left once more with dreams. And although dreams are all well and good.he ha discovered there was something more, and he knew that simple dreams would never be enough again.
***
Duo was quiet, Wufei wasn't angry, Quatre was withdrawn and Trowa's small smile had disappeared from his face. Everything shouted that something was wrong, yet not one of them would tell her what was going on. They went through their day in a strange silence, and they seemed to try to do everything as they had been doing for so long. But there were subtle differences that something was wrong. Quatre didn't become absorbed in his music, and there was once that Usagi could have sworn that he had missed a note. Wufei seemed more edgy, and when she didn't hold her defensive position as strong as she should have when they were playing their 'mock battles' with the swords, he didn't take the advantage. Trowa seemed even more rigid and silent than she had ever seen him when they were alone. During their lessons he always opened up a little more than when they were together as a group. Today nothing could break him out of his shell. And duo also seemed distracted. His laughter seemed forced, and sometimes his eyes would wander.
And the worst part was she didn't have a clue why! Sure she had secrets of her own, but yesterday they had this private meeting, and when they came out again they weren't the same. She didn't want to ask what was said, because if they had wanted her to know, they would tell her themselves. And tomorrow would be her 4-month anniversary of being here with them. And a feeling of dread wouldn't go away.
***
Sonya paced the small room that she had been living in for the past four months. For a while after Amei began healing, she wondered if Quatre would decide there was no need for her anymore and just get rid of her. But the truth of the matter was that everyone seemed to forget about her. Not that she minded really, it was better for a spy to be unseen and unnoticed. And it wasn't so bad either. But as she lived there, she didn't see anything that might clue them into as being the Gundam pilots. She was even getting ready to leave. But then just an hour ago Oz had sent her her first, and last real mission.
She didn't see the point of it happening now, but she knew that there must be a reason. Why else would they want her to do anything? After all, they were all knowing. They knew what they were doing, and she was just an ignorant soldier. She didn't have a choice in the matter, and she would have to do it. She had never killed before, and she couldn't help wonder if she would manage to do it. And what it would feel like to be responsible for someone else's death. But then, she wouldn't have time to think about it for very long. After all, she wouldn't live very long.
***
Usagi yawned, and stretched on her bed. As much as she hated to leave the comfortable covers, and the warmth of a warm bed she needed to do this. That was what she told herself every morning as she got up for her exercises. After all, it was the only time during the day that she was perfectly alone, and no one else was up, so she didn't have anything to worry about.
She slid out of bed, and into her small black slippers to protect them from the bite of the fall chill.
The she started to stretch, in order to limber up her body for her exercises. First one leg, and then the other. It had been hard to build the muscles in her legs back to what they used to be simply by exercising them in the morning, as she couldn't do anything with them throughout the day. She couldn't walk, or run. And when she finally left this place (which was something she still put off thinking about) she would want to leave this vile chair and walk on her own without her legs giving out from under her.
61-62-63- Usagi was in the middle of her sit-ups she heard a loud knocking on her door. Before her mind could react her body was already in motion. She grabbed her towel, and wiped the sweat off of her face. Then she took a few deep quiet breaths, and sat down in her chair.
"In a minute" She shouted, and then wheeled over to the door. She took a second to take her composure. No one had ever interrupted here exercises before, and she was scared to death that some one had heard her moving around and had come to check up on her.
She pulled the door open, and came face to face with.Wufei? What the heck was he doing outside her door this early in the morning! She let a little of the surprise stay on her face as she faked a yawn, and sleepily said. "Mornin Wufei. Was there something you wanted?"
Wufei was smoothness in itself as he said. "I was just coming to let you know that breakfast is ready early, so you can come and get it when it's still hot onna." The look on his face spoke that it was a great injustice in his opinion that he had come and done something so below him, so she didn't bother him with questions. So she just said. "Thanks for telling me! I'll be down in a minute."
Wufei just nodded, and when he left she closed the door. "That was weird." She said to herself when she was once again alone. "I wonder what this is all about."
***
Duo fidgeted in his chosen place next to the light, but behind the door. They had been planning this for weeks now, and it all had to go perfectly. It had been his idea at first to give Amei a surprise party, and he had been really surprised when everyone had agreed to go along with it. Wufei especially had shocked him by agreeing to not only go along with it, but he had helped too. They had all gotten involved to whole-heartily that Duo couldn't help but wonder what Amei was doing to all of them.
The faint buzzing caught their trained attentions before she was even close to the door. Quickly they all got ready. She opened the door, and Duo flipped on the switch. Then they all jumped out of their hiding places, and shouted "SURPRISE!!!"
***
Usagi nearly jumped out of her chair in surprise, but she was able to contain herself just in time to see what was going on. And when she saw it, she couldn't believe what she was seeing!
All of them were there, Duo was grinning bigger than she had ever seen, and Quatre was smiling his sweet excited smile. Trowa seemed pleased with himself too, and Wufei was actually smiling! A small little smile was the first she had ever seen on his face.
Duo rushed over, and got down on his knees in front of her so they could be eye to eye. Then he gave her a big hug.
Her eyes grew round in shock at the physical contact, but she managed to relax herself enough to give a small one back. Then she gasped out. "What is this anyway you guys? You all nearly gave me a heart attack!"
Duo stood up and took a step back. He seemed sheepish. "Well Amei.it's just that it's your 4th month anniversary of being with us, and we all" he took a minute to look around at the whole group, "thought that it would be a good idea to give you a party. After all, we haven't done anything fun like this since you've been here, and it's about time!" Duo looked very pleased with himself.
"That's right Mi- I mean Amei. We weren't sure when your birthday was, so we just figured that we could give you a birthday/anniversary party today." He looked at her as if he wanted to make sure that his actions were the right ones, and she wasn't mad at him.
Usagi couldn't help herself, and tears started to stream down her face. Small sobs racked her small body, as she looked around at these people who took her in. These people who became her.her friends. She never was given a surprise birthday party before, and never by people she had known for such a short time.
Quatre looked stricken, and Duo looked like he wanted to come over and wipe the tears away. Wufei and Trowa both had emotionless masks on, and she couldn't tell what they were thinking.
Finally she had her composure enough to talk once again. "I'm sorry guys, I didn't mean to cry. It's just that.it's just that no ones ever done anything this nice for be before, and I.and I." She was at a loss of words as she once again broke out into tears.
Wufei's expressionless face had left, and the smile was back. But his words didn't match the look on his face. "Oh come on onna, stop your foolish tears." Then he mumbled something along the lines of ' stupid onnas with their feminine emotions.'
Then everyone came over to her, and the day progressed into one of the best days of her life. It started with a huge breakfast, and she was the 'guest of honor'. Everyone was more open than she had ever seen them, and they were all just teenagers having fun for the first time she had ever seen them.
It was unlike any party she had ever been at before. They just talked and laughed, and she had an overall great time!
After breakfast was over, Duo suggested on of the most ridiculous games in her dimension, and this one. Charades.
Wufei wouldn't shut up about the injustice of playing such foolish and childish games, but when Duo said that he could not play if he liked, and he could just go to the library and read, Wufei had reluctantly agreed.
They all went into the living room and everyone but her and Duo sat down on either the couch, or the chairs scattered around the room.
"All right everyone, don't go anywhere. I'll be right back in just a minute." Then he left. Usagi sighed and looked at Wufei. "Well Wufei, are you ready for this? I'll have you know I was a pro charade player back at home, and I'll blow you out of the water!"
Wufei's competitive streak broke through his reluctance to play this game, as she knew it was. "Are you kidding? I'll take you anytime, anywhere onna."
Usagi smirked, and Wufei continued to glare at her. "I'll bet you, that I'll be able to answer more clues then you."
Wufei still glared at her. "You're on, but what do you want to bet?"
Usagi thought for a second. "Well.if you win I'll be your slave for a day, and if I win, you'll be mine."
"Really guys, there isn't any need for such competitive feelings. After all, it's just a fun game." Quatre butted in. Usagi turned and pouted at him. "Really Quatre, we're just playing around. There's nothing wrong with a little bit of friendly competition. After all, like you said it's all in good fun."
Quatre sighed but he didn't have anything to say. Usagi looked, and saw as Trowa smirked. She raised an eyebrow at him, but otherwise didn't say anything.
When Duo finally came back, he was practically jumping in excitement. He walked over to stand in front of them, and casually asked. "OK, who's first?" He waited for a minute before finally answering his own question with. "Well, Trowa, you hardly ever talk anyway, so this really shouldn't be a problem for you."
Trowa looked like he was about to protest, but he gave in and got out of his large green chair to stand in front of Duo. Duo pulled out his black top hat with a flourish, and Trowa pulled out a small piece of paper. Then he walked out in front of them and opened it up.
All of the color drained out of his face and he looked at Duo as if he was crazy. Duo laughed evilly, and said. "All right everyone. I'll give you one clue. These are all famous Disney characters."
Trowa looked lost for a minute, but finally he started making hand movements. First he put one hand in front of him, and tried to make it look like he was staring into a mirror. He turned it from side to side as if he was checking himself out. Then he mimicked biting into an apple-
"Snow White!" Usagi shouted, and Trowa nodded his head. Wufei glared at her, and Usagi stuck out her tongue.
"Very nice Amei, since you got it right you get to choose who goes next." Duo said for the entire world like he was a game-show host.
"Well," Usagi thought for a minute before finally saying, " I guess I choose Wufei."
Wufei didn't even look at her as he walked calmly over to Duo and pulled out a piece of paper.
He opened it right away, and when he read it like unto Trowa all of the color drained from his face, and then he turned bright red.
"This is injustice that I would get this name. I demand a chance to draw again." He shouted glaring now at Duo.
Duo smirked and answered. "That wouldn't be fair, but if you really don't want to do it I suppose you could always.quit."
Wufei didn't say anything, but instead stalked out into Trowas place. Then he tried to wipe the scowl off of his face, as he tried to smile. Then he started twirling around, and when no one got the picture, he tried to mimic sewing. That still didn't clue anyone in, he lifted his pointer finger in front of his face, and moved his lips as if he was singing.
By then Usagi was laughing so hard that it was difficult to breathe. She had NEVER in her entire life even dreamed that Wufei would make such a fool out of himself, but it was either that or quit, which he would never do. Usagi had a good guess as to who he was supposed to be, but had kept her mouth shut so she could watch Wufei. Finally she couldn't stand to see him like this anymore, and she shouted. "Ci-cinderella!"
Wufei nearly collapsed in relief, and Duo couldn't hold it in anymore and he burst out laughing.
The game continued like that until everyone had gone at least once, and Usagi had 7 points, and Wufei had a remarkable 1. Duo had 3, and Quatre and Trowa were tied with 2 each.
Quatre was the one to break into the game by saying. "I think that we're all ready for something different. How about we all, you know what." He said looking knowingly at his friends.
Wufei didn't want to give in, that was plain on his face, but he didn't want to play anymore either. "All right, but this isn't over with. We'll finish this later." He said looking threateningly at Usagi. She just smiled at him.
"We'll be right back Amei." Quatre said to her.
Duo's smile could have broken his face as he said. "Meanwhile, close your eyes until I tell you that you can open them."
Usagi's curiosity was nearly killing her, but she merely nodded, and closed her eyes. It was about 5 minutes before she finally heard Duo tell her. "All right Amei, you can open them now."
And they were all there, sitting back in their seats. But there was one thing that was different. They all had a large box in their hands! Once more she was nearly overcome, but managed to keep her composure. Why had they gotten her presents? What had she ever done for them to deserve all of this?
By some unspoken signal, Trowa came to stand in front of her first. He was holding a medium sized box in his hands, wrapped in metallic pink wrapping paper. "I hope you like it" was all he said before going back to his seat and sitting down. Then he waited expectantly for her to open it.
But Usagi wasn't there anymore. She was in another place, a long time ago. She was in an apartment, and there was a tall black haired man with her. And she was holding another box in her hands. A box she knew so well.a first aid kit.
Quickly she willed those images away, and turned to smile at Trowa. She couldn't let fear ruin her life, and these were her friends. They would never hurt her like Mamoru had. Even though he was supposed to be her soul mate. Quickly she ripped the offensive paper away, after that day she couldn't stand pink, and held in her hands a white cardboard box. Slowly she lifted the lid.
And was staring at 6 of the most beautiful knifes she had ever seen in her life. They were assorted sizes, but they were all worked silver that simply shone. And they had worked silver handles, which made it look like a dragon striking, the head at the hilt and the blade was the tail. And they had small emerald eyes.
"They're beautiful" she gasped out at Trowa, and she was nearly overcome. With them was a small note, and black leather. She wasn't sure what the leather was, so she picked up the note and read it. It said.
Dear Amei,
I don't know much about you, or your past. But I do know that at one time you were hurt. Enclosed are small striking dragons, as you are, and as I see you. The leather are small sheathes that you can place the knives in, and hide under your clothing. I hope that you can use these to protect you wherever you are going, and I hope that you will always be safe.
Sincerely
Trowa
Usagi lifted up the small sheathes, and looked at them. On each one was attached a small piece of paper describing where it was supposed to be placed, her ankles, her wrists, or on her hip.
"Thank you Trowa, thank you so much." She said, and Trowa smiled and looked away. She could have sworn there was a small blush on his cheeks.
"Uh-Un" Wufei cleared his throat and said. "I guess I'm next." He then took the long package in his hands, and walked over to Usagi. He reverently handed it in her hands and said. "You have earned this, and I hope that one day you will be able to break free of the bonds the hold you. Meanwhile it is a symbol of our friendship." He stood there, and watched as she ripped the brown paper off the package.
It was a good thing that she was careful because in her hands was a large rapier. A long, thin sword. It was worked metal, not really silver because it gleamed much brighter than she had ever seen it. When she looked at the hilt she heard Wufei begin to talk.
"Many people call me the Dragon, a term that I was given when I was a child and I've carried with me throughout my life. I don't remember how I earned it, only that I did something to earn the respect of my family. And when I see you, I see just as Trowa sees a striking Dragon. Someone fierce, yet as the legends tell it wise and gentle. Which is why I felt that you earned the name of Dragon."
Usagi looked at Wufei in shock. She had never heard him speak like his before. Then she looked back at the hilt. It was worked into the shape of a beautiful Dragon. Much like the knives, but it had small Rubies in its eyes. She lifted it up in her hand, and was amazed at the balance. It was surprisingly light, and despite the shape of the handle it held well in her hand. She whipped it around and couldn't hold in a shout of glee as she saw the gracefulness of the movements.
"Thank you Wufei, I'm honored." Was all she said, and was serious as she said it. He saw this as an honor on her part, and she would treat it as such.
She heard Quatre start to move, and immediately turned around to see him. He had a smaller package in his hands, and quietly he handed it to her. He smiled his sweet smile, and said. "I hope you will continue to fill your life with such beautiful music." And then he turned and sat down without another word. She opened the small package, and inside found one of the strangest instruments that she had ever seen in her life. She turned to look questioningly at Quatre.
"I found them in a small corner of the music room, and as soon as I saw them I knew they were for you. They're sea pipes, and when you play them correctly, it sounds like the ocean."
She couldn't contain her glee as she lifted it up to her lips and blew into one of the holes. She blew not C pure and clear, and when she lifted it from her lips she laughed in surprise. "Thank you Quatre, they're absolutely wonderful! I can't wait to learn how to play!"
"Your welcome M-Amei." He said, and blushed such a dark red that she almost rushed to his side to see if he was all right.
But Duo was already on her. "My Turn, My Turn! He shouted like a little child, and Usagi laughed aloud. He fell down on one knee as if he was proposing, and held out a small black box.
Usagi nearly wanted to cry. He couldn't be proposing, could he? She hoped not, after all, he heart was already taken and she didn't want to break his. But he didn't say anything, and she reluctantly opened the velvet box.
Inside was a delicate necklace, so delicate she feared if she so much as touched it, it would fall apart. In the lid in an elaborate handwriting was written Amei. "Oh Duo," she gasped out as she removed it from the box. He was looking at her nervously. "It's a locket." He said while still looking at her.
She opened it, and inside the magic was broken. It wasn't empty, and it wasn't a picture. There was just a heart shaped silver chip fitted into one of the slots. "What the heck is this?" She asked, not sure at all what to make of it.
Duo was fidgeting in excitement, and he tried to hold it is as he said. "It's a holograph chip, just push it." Usagi wasn't sure what to expect, and so she gently pushed it, and snatched her hand back. But she was starting at the image in front of her. A miniature version of her with all of the boys standing together in front of her caught her eye. She could see every detail of them, and they were so perfect as they hovered over the locket in front of her eyes. "Oh my gosh.." She said, and reverently put the small silver necklace around her neck.
Wufei was looking at it too, as if he couldn't believe his eyes. "When was this taken?" He asked suspiciously. "I don't remember ever posing for a picture.
Duo winked at him. "Well, that 's just my little secret then is-" A knocking on the door interrupted his sentence, and Duo took this chance to shout, "I'll get it!" and turn to run away.
He made it as far as the door when a shadow stepped out in front of him. Usagi barely made out Sonya when she heard her say. "No you won't." And shot Duo squarely in the chest.
Usagi's world exploded at the sound of the gunshot, and then the loud shot after it that left Sonya on the ground. But she only saw these things in a half daze as she jumped out of her wheel chair, and started running towards Duo. She wouldn't lose him; she couldn't lose one she loved. Not again. When she finally reached him she kneeled down by his side. He was already fading. His eyes were glazed as he looked at her and said. "Amei.what are you doing?" But he faded too quickly to say anything else. But Usagi wasn't going to let him go not that easily. She placed both hands over his heart, and the wound that was still pumping blood. She closed her eyes and reached deep into herself.
***
Quatre couldn't believe what he was seeing. Everything had been going to so well, the day had been full of fun, and they had just given Amei their presents. It had all been going wonderfully, and the day had gone crazy. His mind was still catching up with it, and it was rejecting what his eyes had just seen. Duo shot, Wufei had already shot Sonya, and then what could be the most shocking thing of all. Little Amei, cursed to spend the rest of her life in a wheel chair had not only walked, but she had RUN to Duo's side. He was already running to them, and he knew that Wufei and Trowa were not far behind him. He was almost to Amei, when he suddenly stopped. She had begun to glow.
***
Heero was already in motion as his body took control. Reactions so ingrained in his body forced him to pull out his gun, and shoot the door, and then kick it open. He had heard a gun shot, and was already running to the source. He was liquid motion as he raced through the hallway, and sought to find where the sound came from. The perfect soldier part of his brain, the child that had been drilled for so long made him hold the gun in his hand, and run looking for the viper in the midst. Another shot echoed through the hall, and he quickly changed direction to follow it. He knew he was almost there when he heard voices in the distance...
"What the hell is this!"
"Am I dreaming?"
"Oh my God."
He finally turned the corner, and had to skid to a halt to avoid running over anyone.
And came face to face with one of the strangest sights that he had ever seen in his life. Quickly he took stock of the situation, as he held off the feeling of shock. Right in front of him was the body of a dead girl, and right beyond that was another body. He was a short guy, with a long braid lying next to his head. But he saw all of that in an instant, and focused on what made his mind nearly shut down.
Because kneeling over him was a girl, and she was resting her hands on his chest. And she was glowing.
He had to look away from her she was shining so bright that his eyes couldn't handle it. Instead he once more looked at the boy underneath her, and at her hands. He stared in a state of shock as the wound under her hands slowly closed, and the blood began to vanish.
He didn't know how long he stood there, but finally the girl's head fell down to her chest, and she said. "It is done."
And the voice blew his mind away. He knew that voice, yet.how could it be? While his mind tried to register what he had just seen, a name fell from his lips.
"Usagi."
***
Usagi wanted nothing more than to lay down, and sleep for a week. She had never healed anyone like this before, and she never knew it could be so exhausting. But she had done it. Duo would be just fine, and after a good sleep he would wake without a scratch on him. She smiled in accomplishment, when what she had just done caught up with her.
She looked at her friends, who were all looking at her as if she was a freak, and said, "It is done." In order to assure them that their friend was all right. She wanted to explain everything to them, in order to have them like her again. But she had thrown caution to the winds, and followed her heart. She wished with all of her heart that they could forgive her, but all of the worries were banished from her mind by a voice behind her.
"Usagi."
She whipped her head around at the name that she hadn't heard in so long, and made eye contact with a boy that she had never seen before. But he was looking at her as if he knew her. And he said. "Usagi, is that you?"
"That voice." She whispered as it caught up to her. She had heard that voice before, in her dreams and in another world. He mellow voice that she could wrap herself into.the voice she was sure she would never hear again.
And she knew she was staring at her soul mate, her hero. "Heero." And her world fell away, and all that was left were those Prussian blue eyes.and that face she had tried to imagine, but had never before been permitted to see.
***
Sailor Pluto's eyes snapped open, and she came out of her trance. She had been waiting for months to feel that power again, that power that she knew the wielder wouldn't contain for long. And now she had a trace.a trace to locate a power so great she hadn't ever believed it was possible.
And she knew that she couldn't leave it to itself, to destroy.and to kill.
***
Heero couldn't take his eyes off his angel, his soul mate. So many times he had dreamed what he would say, what he would do when he finally met her in person. Not that he had ever believed it was possible. Not in his heart of hearts. But now she was here, right in front of him. And he couldn't say, couldn't DO anything! He just started at her. Trying to memorize her face. It was different than the one she remembered, but it was still Usa, his Usa.
She was the first one to move, as she stood and stepped away from the boy on the ground. Heero felt a flash of jealously that she could care for this boy enough to do what she had for him. She had touched, and she had healed him. But he willed it away in order to memorize her eyes. And he also took a step forward.
They were now a foot apart, but both of them were too afraid to move. Scared to death that they would realize it was just their imagination. Frightened that if they touched the other, their soul mate would vanish into mist as they were forced to come face to face that all of their hopes and dreams weren't real.
Finally Heero held out his hand, wishing that Usagi would only take it and they would be together. He waited for a painful instant until she lifted up her own, and touched her palm to his.
Just knowing she was real was enough, and Heero couldn't contain himself anymore. He pulled the arm, and propelled her right into his arms. He clasped tightly to her, knowing now that he had her, he would never let her go.
***
Usagi was in heaven, which was the only thing it could be. She was held safe in the arms of the only man she could ever love, while she had never dared believe such a thing could happen. And his arms were real, and his face was real, and she buried her face into his chest, and willed to world, and all of its pains to go away. Nothing mattered anymore; not that she had Heero. It would all be OK, and nothing could ever go wrong.
***
Pluto was ready, she had prepared herself. She would take this possible enemy, and put it in the only place that she could watch it. The only place where it's power could be watched, and if necessary destroyed. She reached out with her mind.and pulled.
***
Heero was pushed back by a force that was anything but physical. He tried to keep his hold on Usa, but he felt her slipping through his fingers. He was pushed back so hard that he flew through the air, and right into a wall. He couldn't take his eyes off of Usa, and he got to his feet and started running to her. Something was taking her away. A purple portal had appeared under her feet, and it was pulling her down into it. He ran as fast as he could towards her, hoping desperately that he would be in time. Now that he had had her, he didn't think he could ever be without her again.
But he had been pushed so far away, that even running full-tilt, by the time he had reached her.she was gone. And there was nothing left.
***
The End
Ok, I guess that was all right. It wasn't exactly what I had planned, but these things have a way of writing themselves. So what do you think? It took me forever to write this chapter, and I feel like an immense load is lifted now that it's finally done.
And here is the end of inner strength. It was getting long and drawn out anyway, and it's about time it's finally over with. So goodbye you all, and enjoy your lives. It's been real.
UNLESS.
Well, now that I think about it, the story really doesn't have to end there. I mean, if you really want me to I suppose I could write a sequel or something. Write about where Pluto too Usagi, and Heero's search for her if you really want me to.
But it would take a lot of time, and I do have school.
Anyway, it's really up to you. If you want me to have a sequel, just tell me and I would be more than happy to have one. But I would need people to read it, and I would need to know it's wanted.
So, Ja ne
Or not.
Email me at sirencalling@yahoo.com if you have anything to say.
Hello everyone! It's finally here. It took me about 5 hours, and a year of planning but it's finally here for your reading enjoyment. I sincerely hope that you enjoy it, and I poured my heart and soul into it so if you don't like it I will be crushed.
"make Heero and Usa meet," was the most common review, and for reasons obvious here, I haven't been able to do it until now.
So enjoy.
And PLEASE! Don't make this a waste of time for me. Review and tell me if it was or wasn't.
***
Usagi twirled the small knife through her fingers. Under the pointer finger, and then over her ring finger, and then through again in complex patterns she never would have dreamed she could do before. Her fingers were already so nimble from playing the 'harp' as was closest to the Aria that she could find, and so in only 2 weeks she had progressed rapidly. And in the process, she had gotten to know Trowa a little better, but he was still the silent one, and said as few words as possible.
But it was his attitude towards her that surprised her the most. It was almost like she would have once treated a lost and abused puppy, and she felt that he had some idea what she had been though. Or at least he had a clue as to the pain that she felt. And he tried to bring her out of her shell, but not so much to laugh as Duo. And he wasn't as friendly as Quatre, and he wasn't as gruff, but at the same time grudgingly accepting as Wufei. His presence was like a healing balm over old wounds, and just being around someone who was so much like her made her open up herself more than she would ever have believed to possible. And so she enjoyed her time with Trowa along with the rest of her day.
And the days continued to fly by, with nothing really interesting happening. Slowly she would progress with Quatres lessons on the piano and the flute, and she continued to diligently play her Aria, and in the quiet of her room, sing her soul. Sing the pain, and with the singing it would lessen. And her and Quatre became closer, with his quiet kindness, and his accepting love of anything she had to offer. Once she was sure she could have easily fallen for Quatre, as he was the opposite of everything that Mamoru was, and all that he represented. Sometimes they would talk about philosophy, and he would talk about the world as it used to be before the world. And he had the most hilarious stories to tell about his sisters! He had like 29 sisters, and I can only imagine what kind of torture it would be to be in that kind of environment! But it was also great because he loved his sisters so much, and there was a bond there that reminded her so much of her family, and sometimes late at night, she would dream of what she would say, and do if she went home to her family, and as the days flew by, the ache in her heart for her friends, and especially her brat brother grew stronger, and every night, she would shed one more tear.
Wufei continued to teach her what he could about self-defense, and even how she could use her wheel chair to her advantage. It was much faster than anyone could run if she wanted to do that, but he also taught her tricks to use the wheels to flip someone over her, and other things like that. He also taught her the essence of sword fighting, and even though with him all she could do was the arm movements, it was still quite an experience, and she learned so much. And she would watch his feet as he taught her, and then alone in her room she would get up and practice until she collapsed in her bed. And he would also teach her other sorts of martial arts, and even though sometimes when she looked at him she would seen that he didn't know why he was doing this, he never gave up on her. And their quiet friendship continued to develop, and he reminded her so much of her friend Rei that she couldn't help but get close to him, even as she tried to distance herself.
Duo was the strangest of all. He was so kind to her, and he still saw it as his personal job to make her laugh, and he was like her protector against the problems of the world. With him all of them just seemed to vanish, and it was just them together. Talking and laughing even sometimes. Duo would also sometimes to go the library and get some adventure stories, and when she was so tired from her hard day he would read to her until she finally couldn't stay awake anymore and fell into the world of dreams. And that was how she came to see a new side of Duo that no one had ever seen before. A caring side that would do anything to help her just a little bit. And she was left to constantly wonder why it was that he was so kind to her, and why he spent so much of his time to make her happy. She found herself coming closer to him than she ever had been to a friend before (and his isn't like hero, theirs was a different kind of love altogether) and when she was the most depressed about being away from home, Duo would be there to cheer her up, and take a load off for a little while.
So the days flew by, and blended together into the complex pattern that was her life. And she knew that there was no way that it could get better than it was now, and wished with all her heart that things would never change, and her life would go on like this forever.even though deep down, in a place she didn't want to look she knew that would never be possible.
*** In a dark room, voices spoke to one another.
1: I don't see the problem, so he's not doing anything. Maybe he's just going through an episode. He'll be over it in no time. 2: I don't think you're right Dr. S. I have a feeling that this is a little more permanent than you think it is. It is best to get him out of the picture all together. We can always find someone to take his place, but he already jeopardized one mission. We can't trust him as he is right now. 3: I don't think you're right there, Dr J. I'm sure if he was put into a familiar environment, he would be just fine. Something traumatic happened to him, and he just needs to be around places and people who are familiar, and he will go back to himself.
Dr. J looked at doctor T (I'm sorry, I'm just using letters) could he be serious? But all of the doctors he was with all agreed with one thing. They didn't think he should go through with his plan to kill Heero when he feels the time is right. They had been arguing for hours and they all seemed united for one of the first times he had ever seen them. United against him. And it was Dr. M that insisted that he should go somewhere familiar so he could go back to himself. And they all insisted that the environment he was in right now wasn't exactly conductive of getting back to normal. And then Dr. P insisted that he should get together with the other Gundam Pilots (they were all insane) because soon their talking about their cause, and just being themselves would force him to go back to the way that he once was. And the worst part was that soon he was finding himself slowly agreeing him, and his resolve began to fade. It was so simple, he would just put him back into an old environment, and soon surely he would have his perfect soldier back to the way that he was before. If nothing else it was worth a try, and it was better than killing the boy.
After day turned to night, and he had been thinking about it for hours he finally made a decision. He would need to go and inform Heero of the situation. After all, he would be leaving within the end of the week.
***
Heero listened as Dr. J's voice echoed through his small room, and tried to seem interested. This was a most interesting change in plans. And he tried to seem excited. After all he was going to be with his friends.his friends.who he had never met before.
He had no idea why Dr. J had come to this decision, and he had mixed feelings about it. He would be glad to get out and see more of the world, but he also knew that the cunning Dr surely had a reason for everything he did, and this would hardly be a different situation.
And he also knew that as much as he might not want to, he would probably give himself away. After all, he didn't have very much experience with people, and these were people who already knew 'him' as he was! How was he supposed to act anyway?
He had a vague idea of how he was before. After all, how can a body without a soul have any emotion? So in order to stay alive to find Usagi, would have to be like that? Would have to act as he had never acted before?
One thing was sure, he wasn't ever going to let anyone take him back here.although it was nice and all, there was so much of the world that he wanted to see with his own eyes. To touch with his own hands, and to smell with his own nose. He had briefly glimpsed what was out there, and then it had all been taken away from him, and he was left once more with dreams. And although dreams are all well and good.he ha discovered there was something more, and he knew that simple dreams would never be enough again.
***
Duo was quiet, Wufei wasn't angry, Quatre was withdrawn and Trowa's small smile had disappeared from his face. Everything shouted that something was wrong, yet not one of them would tell her what was going on. They went through their day in a strange silence, and they seemed to try to do everything as they had been doing for so long. But there were subtle differences that something was wrong. Quatre didn't become absorbed in his music, and there was once that Usagi could have sworn that he had missed a note. Wufei seemed more edgy, and when she didn't hold her defensive position as strong as she should have when they were playing their 'mock battles' with the swords, he didn't take the advantage. Trowa seemed even more rigid and silent than she had ever seen him when they were alone. During their lessons he always opened up a little more than when they were together as a group. Today nothing could break him out of his shell. And duo also seemed distracted. His laughter seemed forced, and sometimes his eyes would wander.
And the worst part was she didn't have a clue why! Sure she had secrets of her own, but yesterday they had this private meeting, and when they came out again they weren't the same. She didn't want to ask what was said, because if they had wanted her to know, they would tell her themselves. And tomorrow would be her 4-month anniversary of being here with them. And a feeling of dread wouldn't go away.
***
Sonya paced the small room that she had been living in for the past four months. For a while after Amei began healing, she wondered if Quatre would decide there was no need for her anymore and just get rid of her. But the truth of the matter was that everyone seemed to forget about her. Not that she minded really, it was better for a spy to be unseen and unnoticed. And it wasn't so bad either. But as she lived there, she didn't see anything that might clue them into as being the Gundam pilots. She was even getting ready to leave. But then just an hour ago Oz had sent her her first, and last real mission.
She didn't see the point of it happening now, but she knew that there must be a reason. Why else would they want her to do anything? After all, they were all knowing. They knew what they were doing, and she was just an ignorant soldier. She didn't have a choice in the matter, and she would have to do it. She had never killed before, and she couldn't help wonder if she would manage to do it. And what it would feel like to be responsible for someone else's death. But then, she wouldn't have time to think about it for very long. After all, she wouldn't live very long.
***
Usagi yawned, and stretched on her bed. As much as she hated to leave the comfortable covers, and the warmth of a warm bed she needed to do this. That was what she told herself every morning as she got up for her exercises. After all, it was the only time during the day that she was perfectly alone, and no one else was up, so she didn't have anything to worry about.
She slid out of bed, and into her small black slippers to protect them from the bite of the fall chill.
The she started to stretch, in order to limber up her body for her exercises. First one leg, and then the other. It had been hard to build the muscles in her legs back to what they used to be simply by exercising them in the morning, as she couldn't do anything with them throughout the day. She couldn't walk, or run. And when she finally left this place (which was something she still put off thinking about) she would want to leave this vile chair and walk on her own without her legs giving out from under her.
61-62-63- Usagi was in the middle of her sit-ups she heard a loud knocking on her door. Before her mind could react her body was already in motion. She grabbed her towel, and wiped the sweat off of her face. Then she took a few deep quiet breaths, and sat down in her chair.
"In a minute" She shouted, and then wheeled over to the door. She took a second to take her composure. No one had ever interrupted here exercises before, and she was scared to death that some one had heard her moving around and had come to check up on her.
She pulled the door open, and came face to face with.Wufei? What the heck was he doing outside her door this early in the morning! She let a little of the surprise stay on her face as she faked a yawn, and sleepily said. "Mornin Wufei. Was there something you wanted?"
Wufei was smoothness in itself as he said. "I was just coming to let you know that breakfast is ready early, so you can come and get it when it's still hot onna." The look on his face spoke that it was a great injustice in his opinion that he had come and done something so below him, so she didn't bother him with questions. So she just said. "Thanks for telling me! I'll be down in a minute."
Wufei just nodded, and when he left she closed the door. "That was weird." She said to herself when she was once again alone. "I wonder what this is all about."
***
Duo fidgeted in his chosen place next to the light, but behind the door. They had been planning this for weeks now, and it all had to go perfectly. It had been his idea at first to give Amei a surprise party, and he had been really surprised when everyone had agreed to go along with it. Wufei especially had shocked him by agreeing to not only go along with it, but he had helped too. They had all gotten involved to whole-heartily that Duo couldn't help but wonder what Amei was doing to all of them.
The faint buzzing caught their trained attentions before she was even close to the door. Quickly they all got ready. She opened the door, and Duo flipped on the switch. Then they all jumped out of their hiding places, and shouted "SURPRISE!!!"
***
Usagi nearly jumped out of her chair in surprise, but she was able to contain herself just in time to see what was going on. And when she saw it, she couldn't believe what she was seeing!
All of them were there, Duo was grinning bigger than she had ever seen, and Quatre was smiling his sweet excited smile. Trowa seemed pleased with himself too, and Wufei was actually smiling! A small little smile was the first she had ever seen on his face.
Duo rushed over, and got down on his knees in front of her so they could be eye to eye. Then he gave her a big hug.
Her eyes grew round in shock at the physical contact, but she managed to relax herself enough to give a small one back. Then she gasped out. "What is this anyway you guys? You all nearly gave me a heart attack!"
Duo stood up and took a step back. He seemed sheepish. "Well Amei.it's just that it's your 4th month anniversary of being with us, and we all" he took a minute to look around at the whole group, "thought that it would be a good idea to give you a party. After all, we haven't done anything fun like this since you've been here, and it's about time!" Duo looked very pleased with himself.
"That's right Mi- I mean Amei. We weren't sure when your birthday was, so we just figured that we could give you a birthday/anniversary party today." He looked at her as if he wanted to make sure that his actions were the right ones, and she wasn't mad at him.
Usagi couldn't help herself, and tears started to stream down her face. Small sobs racked her small body, as she looked around at these people who took her in. These people who became her.her friends. She never was given a surprise birthday party before, and never by people she had known for such a short time.
Quatre looked stricken, and Duo looked like he wanted to come over and wipe the tears away. Wufei and Trowa both had emotionless masks on, and she couldn't tell what they were thinking.
Finally she had her composure enough to talk once again. "I'm sorry guys, I didn't mean to cry. It's just that.it's just that no ones ever done anything this nice for be before, and I.and I." She was at a loss of words as she once again broke out into tears.
Wufei's expressionless face had left, and the smile was back. But his words didn't match the look on his face. "Oh come on onna, stop your foolish tears." Then he mumbled something along the lines of ' stupid onnas with their feminine emotions.'
Then everyone came over to her, and the day progressed into one of the best days of her life. It started with a huge breakfast, and she was the 'guest of honor'. Everyone was more open than she had ever seen them, and they were all just teenagers having fun for the first time she had ever seen them.
It was unlike any party she had ever been at before. They just talked and laughed, and she had an overall great time!
After breakfast was over, Duo suggested on of the most ridiculous games in her dimension, and this one. Charades.
Wufei wouldn't shut up about the injustice of playing such foolish and childish games, but when Duo said that he could not play if he liked, and he could just go to the library and read, Wufei had reluctantly agreed.
They all went into the living room and everyone but her and Duo sat down on either the couch, or the chairs scattered around the room.
"All right everyone, don't go anywhere. I'll be right back in just a minute." Then he left. Usagi sighed and looked at Wufei. "Well Wufei, are you ready for this? I'll have you know I was a pro charade player back at home, and I'll blow you out of the water!"
Wufei's competitive streak broke through his reluctance to play this game, as she knew it was. "Are you kidding? I'll take you anytime, anywhere onna."
Usagi smirked, and Wufei continued to glare at her. "I'll bet you, that I'll be able to answer more clues then you."
Wufei still glared at her. "You're on, but what do you want to bet?"
Usagi thought for a second. "Well.if you win I'll be your slave for a day, and if I win, you'll be mine."
"Really guys, there isn't any need for such competitive feelings. After all, it's just a fun game." Quatre butted in. Usagi turned and pouted at him. "Really Quatre, we're just playing around. There's nothing wrong with a little bit of friendly competition. After all, like you said it's all in good fun."
Quatre sighed but he didn't have anything to say. Usagi looked, and saw as Trowa smirked. She raised an eyebrow at him, but otherwise didn't say anything.
When Duo finally came back, he was practically jumping in excitement. He walked over to stand in front of them, and casually asked. "OK, who's first?" He waited for a minute before finally answering his own question with. "Well, Trowa, you hardly ever talk anyway, so this really shouldn't be a problem for you."
Trowa looked like he was about to protest, but he gave in and got out of his large green chair to stand in front of Duo. Duo pulled out his black top hat with a flourish, and Trowa pulled out a small piece of paper. Then he walked out in front of them and opened it up.
All of the color drained out of his face and he looked at Duo as if he was crazy. Duo laughed evilly, and said. "All right everyone. I'll give you one clue. These are all famous Disney characters."
Trowa looked lost for a minute, but finally he started making hand movements. First he put one hand in front of him, and tried to make it look like he was staring into a mirror. He turned it from side to side as if he was checking himself out. Then he mimicked biting into an apple-
"Snow White!" Usagi shouted, and Trowa nodded his head. Wufei glared at her, and Usagi stuck out her tongue.
"Very nice Amei, since you got it right you get to choose who goes next." Duo said for the entire world like he was a game-show host.
"Well," Usagi thought for a minute before finally saying, " I guess I choose Wufei."
Wufei didn't even look at her as he walked calmly over to Duo and pulled out a piece of paper.
He opened it right away, and when he read it like unto Trowa all of the color drained from his face, and then he turned bright red.
"This is injustice that I would get this name. I demand a chance to draw again." He shouted glaring now at Duo.
Duo smirked and answered. "That wouldn't be fair, but if you really don't want to do it I suppose you could always.quit."
Wufei didn't say anything, but instead stalked out into Trowas place. Then he tried to wipe the scowl off of his face, as he tried to smile. Then he started twirling around, and when no one got the picture, he tried to mimic sewing. That still didn't clue anyone in, he lifted his pointer finger in front of his face, and moved his lips as if he was singing.
By then Usagi was laughing so hard that it was difficult to breathe. She had NEVER in her entire life even dreamed that Wufei would make such a fool out of himself, but it was either that or quit, which he would never do. Usagi had a good guess as to who he was supposed to be, but had kept her mouth shut so she could watch Wufei. Finally she couldn't stand to see him like this anymore, and she shouted. "Ci-cinderella!"
Wufei nearly collapsed in relief, and Duo couldn't hold it in anymore and he burst out laughing.
The game continued like that until everyone had gone at least once, and Usagi had 7 points, and Wufei had a remarkable 1. Duo had 3, and Quatre and Trowa were tied with 2 each.
Quatre was the one to break into the game by saying. "I think that we're all ready for something different. How about we all, you know what." He said looking knowingly at his friends.
Wufei didn't want to give in, that was plain on his face, but he didn't want to play anymore either. "All right, but this isn't over with. We'll finish this later." He said looking threateningly at Usagi. She just smiled at him.
"We'll be right back Amei." Quatre said to her.
Duo's smile could have broken his face as he said. "Meanwhile, close your eyes until I tell you that you can open them."
Usagi's curiosity was nearly killing her, but she merely nodded, and closed her eyes. It was about 5 minutes before she finally heard Duo tell her. "All right Amei, you can open them now."
And they were all there, sitting back in their seats. But there was one thing that was different. They all had a large box in their hands! Once more she was nearly overcome, but managed to keep her composure. Why had they gotten her presents? What had she ever done for them to deserve all of this?
By some unspoken signal, Trowa came to stand in front of her first. He was holding a medium sized box in his hands, wrapped in metallic pink wrapping paper. "I hope you like it" was all he said before going back to his seat and sitting down. Then he waited expectantly for her to open it.
But Usagi wasn't there anymore. She was in another place, a long time ago. She was in an apartment, and there was a tall black haired man with her. And she was holding another box in her hands. A box she knew so well.a first aid kit.
Quickly she willed those images away, and turned to smile at Trowa. She couldn't let fear ruin her life, and these were her friends. They would never hurt her like Mamoru had. Even though he was supposed to be her soul mate. Quickly she ripped the offensive paper away, after that day she couldn't stand pink, and held in her hands a white cardboard box. Slowly she lifted the lid.
And was staring at 6 of the most beautiful knifes she had ever seen in her life. They were assorted sizes, but they were all worked silver that simply shone. And they had worked silver handles, which made it look like a dragon striking, the head at the hilt and the blade was the tail. And they had small emerald eyes.
"They're beautiful" she gasped out at Trowa, and she was nearly overcome. With them was a small note, and black leather. She wasn't sure what the leather was, so she picked up the note and read it. It said.
Dear Amei,
I don't know much about you, or your past. But I do know that at one time you were hurt. Enclosed are small striking dragons, as you are, and as I see you. The leather are small sheathes that you can place the knives in, and hide under your clothing. I hope that you can use these to protect you wherever you are going, and I hope that you will always be safe.
Sincerely
Trowa
Usagi lifted up the small sheathes, and looked at them. On each one was attached a small piece of paper describing where it was supposed to be placed, her ankles, her wrists, or on her hip.
"Thank you Trowa, thank you so much." She said, and Trowa smiled and looked away. She could have sworn there was a small blush on his cheeks.
"Uh-Un" Wufei cleared his throat and said. "I guess I'm next." He then took the long package in his hands, and walked over to Usagi. He reverently handed it in her hands and said. "You have earned this, and I hope that one day you will be able to break free of the bonds the hold you. Meanwhile it is a symbol of our friendship." He stood there, and watched as she ripped the brown paper off the package.
It was a good thing that she was careful because in her hands was a large rapier. A long, thin sword. It was worked metal, not really silver because it gleamed much brighter than she had ever seen it. When she looked at the hilt she heard Wufei begin to talk.
"Many people call me the Dragon, a term that I was given when I was a child and I've carried with me throughout my life. I don't remember how I earned it, only that I did something to earn the respect of my family. And when I see you, I see just as Trowa sees a striking Dragon. Someone fierce, yet as the legends tell it wise and gentle. Which is why I felt that you earned the name of Dragon."
Usagi looked at Wufei in shock. She had never heard him speak like his before. Then she looked back at the hilt. It was worked into the shape of a beautiful Dragon. Much like the knives, but it had small Rubies in its eyes. She lifted it up in her hand, and was amazed at the balance. It was surprisingly light, and despite the shape of the handle it held well in her hand. She whipped it around and couldn't hold in a shout of glee as she saw the gracefulness of the movements.
"Thank you Wufei, I'm honored." Was all she said, and was serious as she said it. He saw this as an honor on her part, and she would treat it as such.
She heard Quatre start to move, and immediately turned around to see him. He had a smaller package in his hands, and quietly he handed it to her. He smiled his sweet smile, and said. "I hope you will continue to fill your life with such beautiful music." And then he turned and sat down without another word. She opened the small package, and inside found one of the strangest instruments that she had ever seen in her life. She turned to look questioningly at Quatre.
"I found them in a small corner of the music room, and as soon as I saw them I knew they were for you. They're sea pipes, and when you play them correctly, it sounds like the ocean."
She couldn't contain her glee as she lifted it up to her lips and blew into one of the holes. She blew not C pure and clear, and when she lifted it from her lips she laughed in surprise. "Thank you Quatre, they're absolutely wonderful! I can't wait to learn how to play!"
"Your welcome M-Amei." He said, and blushed such a dark red that she almost rushed to his side to see if he was all right.
But Duo was already on her. "My Turn, My Turn! He shouted like a little child, and Usagi laughed aloud. He fell down on one knee as if he was proposing, and held out a small black box.
Usagi nearly wanted to cry. He couldn't be proposing, could he? She hoped not, after all, he heart was already taken and she didn't want to break his. But he didn't say anything, and she reluctantly opened the velvet box.
Inside was a delicate necklace, so delicate she feared if she so much as touched it, it would fall apart. In the lid in an elaborate handwriting was written Amei. "Oh Duo," she gasped out as she removed it from the box. He was looking at her nervously. "It's a locket." He said while still looking at her.
She opened it, and inside the magic was broken. It wasn't empty, and it wasn't a picture. There was just a heart shaped silver chip fitted into one of the slots. "What the heck is this?" She asked, not sure at all what to make of it.
Duo was fidgeting in excitement, and he tried to hold it is as he said. "It's a holograph chip, just push it." Usagi wasn't sure what to expect, and so she gently pushed it, and snatched her hand back. But she was starting at the image in front of her. A miniature version of her with all of the boys standing together in front of her caught her eye. She could see every detail of them, and they were so perfect as they hovered over the locket in front of her eyes. "Oh my gosh.." She said, and reverently put the small silver necklace around her neck.
Wufei was looking at it too, as if he couldn't believe his eyes. "When was this taken?" He asked suspiciously. "I don't remember ever posing for a picture.
Duo winked at him. "Well, that 's just my little secret then is-" A knocking on the door interrupted his sentence, and Duo took this chance to shout, "I'll get it!" and turn to run away.
He made it as far as the door when a shadow stepped out in front of him. Usagi barely made out Sonya when she heard her say. "No you won't." And shot Duo squarely in the chest.
Usagi's world exploded at the sound of the gunshot, and then the loud shot after it that left Sonya on the ground. But she only saw these things in a half daze as she jumped out of her wheel chair, and started running towards Duo. She wouldn't lose him; she couldn't lose one she loved. Not again. When she finally reached him she kneeled down by his side. He was already fading. His eyes were glazed as he looked at her and said. "Amei.what are you doing?" But he faded too quickly to say anything else. But Usagi wasn't going to let him go not that easily. She placed both hands over his heart, and the wound that was still pumping blood. She closed her eyes and reached deep into herself.
***
Quatre couldn't believe what he was seeing. Everything had been going to so well, the day had been full of fun, and they had just given Amei their presents. It had all been going wonderfully, and the day had gone crazy. His mind was still catching up with it, and it was rejecting what his eyes had just seen. Duo shot, Wufei had already shot Sonya, and then what could be the most shocking thing of all. Little Amei, cursed to spend the rest of her life in a wheel chair had not only walked, but she had RUN to Duo's side. He was already running to them, and he knew that Wufei and Trowa were not far behind him. He was almost to Amei, when he suddenly stopped. She had begun to glow.
***
Heero was already in motion as his body took control. Reactions so ingrained in his body forced him to pull out his gun, and shoot the door, and then kick it open. He had heard a gun shot, and was already running to the source. He was liquid motion as he raced through the hallway, and sought to find where the sound came from. The perfect soldier part of his brain, the child that had been drilled for so long made him hold the gun in his hand, and run looking for the viper in the midst. Another shot echoed through the hall, and he quickly changed direction to follow it. He knew he was almost there when he heard voices in the distance...
"What the hell is this!"
"Am I dreaming?"
"Oh my God."
He finally turned the corner, and had to skid to a halt to avoid running over anyone.
And came face to face with one of the strangest sights that he had ever seen in his life. Quickly he took stock of the situation, as he held off the feeling of shock. Right in front of him was the body of a dead girl, and right beyond that was another body. He was a short guy, with a long braid lying next to his head. But he saw all of that in an instant, and focused on what made his mind nearly shut down.
Because kneeling over him was a girl, and she was resting her hands on his chest. And she was glowing.
He had to look away from her she was shining so bright that his eyes couldn't handle it. Instead he once more looked at the boy underneath her, and at her hands. He stared in a state of shock as the wound under her hands slowly closed, and the blood began to vanish.
He didn't know how long he stood there, but finally the girl's head fell down to her chest, and she said. "It is done."
And the voice blew his mind away. He knew that voice, yet.how could it be? While his mind tried to register what he had just seen, a name fell from his lips.
"Usagi."
***
Usagi wanted nothing more than to lay down, and sleep for a week. She had never healed anyone like this before, and she never knew it could be so exhausting. But she had done it. Duo would be just fine, and after a good sleep he would wake without a scratch on him. She smiled in accomplishment, when what she had just done caught up with her.
She looked at her friends, who were all looking at her as if she was a freak, and said, "It is done." In order to assure them that their friend was all right. She wanted to explain everything to them, in order to have them like her again. But she had thrown caution to the winds, and followed her heart. She wished with all of her heart that they could forgive her, but all of the worries were banished from her mind by a voice behind her.
"Usagi."
She whipped her head around at the name that she hadn't heard in so long, and made eye contact with a boy that she had never seen before. But he was looking at her as if he knew her. And he said. "Usagi, is that you?"
"That voice." She whispered as it caught up to her. She had heard that voice before, in her dreams and in another world. He mellow voice that she could wrap herself into.the voice she was sure she would never hear again.
And she knew she was staring at her soul mate, her hero. "Heero." And her world fell away, and all that was left were those Prussian blue eyes.and that face she had tried to imagine, but had never before been permitted to see.
***
Sailor Pluto's eyes snapped open, and she came out of her trance. She had been waiting for months to feel that power again, that power that she knew the wielder wouldn't contain for long. And now she had a trace.a trace to locate a power so great she hadn't ever believed it was possible.
And she knew that she couldn't leave it to itself, to destroy.and to kill.
***
Heero couldn't take his eyes off his angel, his soul mate. So many times he had dreamed what he would say, what he would do when he finally met her in person. Not that he had ever believed it was possible. Not in his heart of hearts. But now she was here, right in front of him. And he couldn't say, couldn't DO anything! He just started at her. Trying to memorize her face. It was different than the one she remembered, but it was still Usa, his Usa.
She was the first one to move, as she stood and stepped away from the boy on the ground. Heero felt a flash of jealously that she could care for this boy enough to do what she had for him. She had touched, and she had healed him. But he willed it away in order to memorize her eyes. And he also took a step forward.
They were now a foot apart, but both of them were too afraid to move. Scared to death that they would realize it was just their imagination. Frightened that if they touched the other, their soul mate would vanish into mist as they were forced to come face to face that all of their hopes and dreams weren't real.
Finally Heero held out his hand, wishing that Usagi would only take it and they would be together. He waited for a painful instant until she lifted up her own, and touched her palm to his.
Just knowing she was real was enough, and Heero couldn't contain himself anymore. He pulled the arm, and propelled her right into his arms. He clasped tightly to her, knowing now that he had her, he would never let her go.
***
Usagi was in heaven, which was the only thing it could be. She was held safe in the arms of the only man she could ever love, while she had never dared believe such a thing could happen. And his arms were real, and his face was real, and she buried her face into his chest, and willed to world, and all of its pains to go away. Nothing mattered anymore; not that she had Heero. It would all be OK, and nothing could ever go wrong.
***
Pluto was ready, she had prepared herself. She would take this possible enemy, and put it in the only place that she could watch it. The only place where it's power could be watched, and if necessary destroyed. She reached out with her mind.and pulled.
***
Heero was pushed back by a force that was anything but physical. He tried to keep his hold on Usa, but he felt her slipping through his fingers. He was pushed back so hard that he flew through the air, and right into a wall. He couldn't take his eyes off of Usa, and he got to his feet and started running to her. Something was taking her away. A purple portal had appeared under her feet, and it was pulling her down into it. He ran as fast as he could towards her, hoping desperately that he would be in time. Now that he had had her, he didn't think he could ever be without her again.
But he had been pushed so far away, that even running full-tilt, by the time he had reached her.she was gone. And there was nothing left.
***
The End
Ok, I guess that was all right. It wasn't exactly what I had planned, but these things have a way of writing themselves. So what do you think? It took me forever to write this chapter, and I feel like an immense load is lifted now that it's finally done.
And here is the end of inner strength. It was getting long and drawn out anyway, and it's about time it's finally over with. So goodbye you all, and enjoy your lives. It's been real.
UNLESS.
Well, now that I think about it, the story really doesn't have to end there. I mean, if you really want me to I suppose I could write a sequel or something. Write about where Pluto too Usagi, and Heero's search for her if you really want me to.
But it would take a lot of time, and I do have school.
Anyway, it's really up to you. If you want me to have a sequel, just tell me and I would be more than happy to have one. But I would need people to read it, and I would need to know it's wanted.
So, Ja ne
Or not.
Email me at sirencalling@yahoo.com if you have anything to say.