Chapter 18
Usagi sat in the witness box tentatively. She didn't know what to expect from Setsuna. She was nervous and it showed. After being sworn in, she looked around pensively. Usagi looked at Setsuna with wide eyes. Setsuna looked at Usagi reassuringly. She didn't want Usagi to be too nervous and choke on the stand. Usagi took a deep breath to calm herself down. Setting down she pushed her nerves aside and stared straight ahead.
"Good afternoon Miss Tsukino, how are you?"
"I'm doing alright," she said a little coolly.
"That's good to hear. Now I am going to ask you some questions and I want you to answer them honestly and frankly. Don't hold back on any answer. Are you ready?"
"As ready as I will ever be," she said softly.
"Ok then. Now we are going to take a look into the past. Do you remember when you were around 14/15?"
Usagi closed her eyes. She immediately saw where this was going and she didn't like it. Not one bit. Realizing it was for the best she sighed and answered, "Yes, I do."
"What was your relationship with Mr. Chiba at that time?"
"He was my boyfriend."
"Were you two serious about each other?"
"I was about him but I knew that it was one sided, even if he said it wasn't."
"When did you two start dating? How old were you?"
"I was 14; he was about 20/21." She said putting her head down. She decided to examine her hands instead of looking at Setsuna or anyone else for that matter.
"How long did the relationship last?"
"Less than 2 years."
"Were you two close during this relationship?"
"In a way, yes."
"I don't mean kisses and embraces; I mean were you two intimate during your relationship?"
"Oh no. I mean he wanted to be but I wanted to wait for marriage."
"Why? Most young women around that age want that kind of relationship."
"Well at the time I considered my um, purity, to be of the highest value to me."
"Why was it so valuable to you?"
Mamoru was a little scared. Turning his head to his lawyer he said, "Do something, Now!"
Haynes hurriedly thought of something. Standing up he quickly said "Objection your honor! This line of questioning has nothing to do with the case."
"Oh but it does your honor. I will use the past to help explain why the plaintiff shouldn't have custody of the child."
"Overruled. Continue Miss Meiou," the judge said.
"Thank you your honor. Now Miss Tsukino, answer the question please."
"It was precious to me because, I wanted to give it to my husband, who would also be the one I was in love with. I wanted it to be my gift to the man that I loved." she said embarrassed.
"Alright. Now during your relationship, how did Mr. Chiba treat you?"
"In the beginning, it was wonderful. He paid attention to me; bought me gifts and we went out often. But as time went on, things slowed down. He became more distant and treated me more like a child. I expected that. I wasn't the most mature person at that time. It was an awkward time for me."
"How come?"
"Because I had the worst sense of balance. I was constantly falling and tripping all over the place. I ate too much and acted like a ten year old. I think that he started to lose respect for me when he realized that I might never grow up and act my age."
"So as you as the relationship continued, did you lose trust in him?"
"I did. He would constantly break our dates and when ever I was around him, he'd either ignore me at times or make it obvious that he was tolerating me. And I had been around his apartment and found things that belonged to other women. Some of them belonged to my friends who were at his apartment constantly, but I didn't actually put two and two together. I was naïve, thinking that they were left by accident after we had some study sessions there."
"Well it was when I was 15. I went over to his apartment, early for once, and walked in. I had a key to it you see. Well I entered and saw him with another woman."
"Objection your honor! This line of………."
"Overruled. Continue Miss Meiou." Setsuna nodded at him.
"Who did you know they were more than just friends?"
She gave a small snort. "Well, I don't know many friends who are comfortable being nude on a floor in an awkward position like they were."
"Ok then. So you found out and what did you do?"
"Told him it was over. I never wanted to see him again. Then I went to my friend's house to get some moral support and got a second shock for the day."
"Which was?"
"He had cheated on me with all of them. Every one of them. I then decided that I didn't want to be associated with any of them and pointedly ignored them when it wasn't possible to avoid them."
"Then what happened?"
"Well that's when the calls started. Mamoru called me almost everyday to get me to talk to him again. Eventually out of annoyance I agreed to go out on a last date with him. He took me to a nice restaurant, outside of the city. I knew he was trying to make I up to me so I was cold towards him. After I said what I had to to him, namely stop calling me and to leave me alone. I went to the bathroom and when I came out we left as soon as I had finished a drink that I had ordered.
On the way home I became sick to my stomach. The pain was intense. I can only compare it to childbirth. Well it was obvious that I was too sick to go home, so he took he to his place which was conveniently nearby. We went in, he sat me down on the sofa, gave me something else to drink and the next thing I knew I woke up in his bed the next morning, unclothed." She finished.
Chibi Usa was confused. She didn't quite understand what was going on, but she knew that it was distressing her mother and it had to do with her. And she didn't like t when her mother was distressed. It made her feel protective and angry at the same time. She didn't understand why though, that she'd feel angry.
Setsuna during this time was listening to her carefully. Things weren't adding up. Setsuna stopped pacing.
"You know that you are under oath right?" Setsuna asked.
"Yes," Usagi answered a little confused.
Everyone was listening intently to this. They all wondered what could be up.
"Well then you must tell the truth. You aren't telling the full story."
Usagi hung her head so that no one could see her eyes. All present were stunned. Everyone had heard that version of the story. They had no idea that there was more.
"Now what are you afraid of? You need to let everything go. There's nothing to be ashamed of. You had no control over the situation." Setsuna said soothingly to her. Looking at the judge she asked, "Do I have permission to approach the bench?"
The Judge nodded, motioning for Mr. Haynes to follow as well.
"What is it?" the judge asked when they were there.
"I would like to make a motion to remove the children from the courtroom. The rest of the testimony will be graphic." Setsuna said. Haynes had no objection to this.
"Motion granted. Bailiff, please remove the children from the court." Chibi Usa looked at her mother as she left. She noticed some sparkly things falling from her mother's face. As she left she realized that they were her tears. But she never got the chance to go to her mother as the bailiff gently pushed her out the door, closing it behind him.
After they had been removed, Setsuna continued. "Now Usagi, tell us what else happened that night."
Still haven't looked up she took a long time to answer. Just when Setsuna was about to asked her again, she began.
"I woke up several times that night. They were brief periods of time but I remember them well." She said so softly that if it wasn't for the microphone, no one human would hear.
"Go on," Setsuna said, gently urging her.
"The first time I did was about a few minutes after I passed out the first time. I felt myself being moved around a bit. I was so numb all over, it was like I was paralyzed. My eyes were very heavy; I had to struggle to keep them open and not to slip back into unconsciousness. Then………….. I felt my clothes being removed." She said, swallowing to keep her voice from shaking. She clenched her fists tightly on top of her knees.
"I fell back into conscious for a while then I was jolted out of it. I couldn't open my eyes this time because they were too heavy. I couldn't talk either; my voice was locked within my throat. I………felt my……………legs being lifted and opened," she said closing her eyes tightly. Tears were flowing freely down her face.
"The next thing I felt was the pain. It felt horrible. It was a searing, burning sensation. I passed out because of it. I woke up often and had much the same experiences as with the second time. The last time I remembered was when he had finished. He had just gotten up. It was before dark and I tried to get up but I was still unable to move. I went unconscious after that and didn't wake up until late morning the next day." She finished softly.
Usagi was barely containing her composure. But no matter how hard she tried, the memory was too painful, even for her. She had managed to block out what had happened that night for a few months, but they came back as visions in her dreams. With each one more vivid than the last. What she had told them was the mild version, more graphic than what everyone thought, but certainly abbreviated. She wasn't going to tell anyone that version. Only three people knew it, herself, Mamoru and soon Setsuna.
Usagi tried to put them out of her head, but it was like trying to hold off a dam. Everything she felt, saw and heard him say during that
encounter hit her full force. Unable to hold back she broke down on the stand, crying so hard that her body shook with the force of her sobs.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Trunks was split in two. On one hand, he wanted nothing more than to give Mamoru the most painful and agonizingly slow death he could think of, and the other hand he wanted to go and get Usagi and take out of there. Well, the urge to get Usagi won out over killing Mamoru so he got up and went to her.
The judge had no objection to this and asked the bailiff to escort them out of the courtroom. To say that he was disgusted with the plaintiff was an understatement. Resisting the urge to come to a decision now, he turned to Setsuna.
~~~~~~~~~
Trunks took Usagi outside and sat her on a bench in the hallway. She was still crying, unable to stop the tears from flowing. Trunks held her in his arms as she cried.
Usagi's mind was bombarded by the memories of that night. They kept replaying in her mind over and over again. She clutched him shirt tightly as she cried, burying her head in his chest. He held her closely, letting her get it out of her system. He felt his anger and rage rising as he listened to her cry. He really wanted to kill Mamoru now.
Usagi felt Trunks rubbing her back soothingly. She started to calm down a bit, composing herself. She stopped soon afterwards, treasuring this moment which meant more to her than all the sympathy that everyone had given her.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Do you have any other witnesses to call?" he asked.
"Yes your honor. I would like to recall to the stand, Mr. Chiba," she said turning to looking at him with a piercing gaze that clearly suggested that she could see into his soul.
He was a bit unnerved by it, but remained calm on the exterior. When he got up to the witness stand, the judge reminded him that he was still under oath. Not that he cared in the slightest.
Setsuna got right to the point. "Mr. Chiba, Miss Tsukino brought up some serious accusations. Do you deny them?"
"Of course." He said simply.
"So you're saying that none of it happened?" Setsuna asked as she paced slowly across the front of the court room.
"I am saying that I did have sex with her, but it was consensual."
"Really?" she said stopping before him.
He looked her directly in the eye. "Yes."
"What if I told you I could prove that it wasn't?"
"Then I would call you a liar. There is no proof." He said confidently. He also had done some research and found nothing in the police reports, which even mentioned Usagi. Besides, she couldn't go to the past anymore. He had made certain of that.
"So you think that I am lying?" she asked coolly.
"I am positive that you are," he answered. She nodded curtly.
Walking back to her briefcase, she extracted two medium sized folders. Going to him, she placed it in front of him and gave the other to the judge. "Open it and read for me." She said.
Mamoru opened it and to his horror saw that it was a copy of an official police report. Scrolling down he noticed that Setsuna had highlighted some key parts in striking colors for easy reference. He realized that the judge must have the original.
He dared not look up, knowing that he was very pale and his guilt would show.
"Will you read the section highlighted in yellow out loud please?" she asked clearly.
Mamoru cleared his throat and drawing a breath began.
"It says, "The victim, Tsukino Usagi, Has suffered from a very vicious and traumatic rape. She has received bruises on her lower to mid upper thighs, a torn hymen and shredding of the vaginal walls. Dislocation of the pelvic bones and internal, as well as external bleeding. She was also severely drugged, borderline overdose of a paralysis causing drug, which has been increasingly being used for 'date rapes'. "
For those who understood, monster was the only thing that came to mind. Just the thought of a 15 year old going through that was awful.
"What does that say generally? You're a doctor and should be able to break that down for us" Setsuna asked him. They all waited patiently to hear his answer.
"Answer the question, Mr. Chiba," the judge said harshly.
"Generally it means that she was torn in two," he said emotionlessly.
"So do you still say that you are innocent?"
"I do. You just showed everyone that she was raped. It didn't show that it was me," he said calmly. He had backed her into a corner. There was no way to prove that he was the one who did it. Even if they had taken her to a clinic, there are policies which state that rape samples are to be destroyed after 3 years. It had been over 5 since then.
"Indeed," she said turning away from him. "You are correct, Mr. Chiba. There would be no way for me to prove it. But the circumstantial evidence is heavily against you. Chibi Usa was born almost exactly 9 months after that incident. And she is yours. It is very compelling evidence."
"Yes it is compelling 'circumstantial' evidence, but not proof. You need proof to show it was me."
"Yes I do. But even if I don't, I still have you guilty of statutory rape. Sex with anyone under 16 is a criminal offence, even if it was
consensual."
"True, but the statue of Limitations ended two years ago. Neither you nor anyone else can bring try to prosecute me for it.
"Indeed, that is true. But it still discredits you."
"True."
"But we have strayed off topic. Now what if I tell you that I can prove that you were the one who raped her?"
"I would have to see it to believe it."
"Fine then," she said. She removed another folder. This one was small and thin. Opening it, she handed some papers to Mamoru, another set to the judge and kept a last set for herself.
"Now I have a report here, which is a little confusing to me. Will you explain it, out loud to me?"
Mamoru looked at the document and realized that it was a DNA test. 'Nande kuso?' he thought to himself as he read it. He blanched unknowingly when he realized it was Usagi's. 'Kuso, these women are thorough.'
Setsuna was pleased with herself. She had him rattled and was going in for the kill. "What does this document say?"
"It's a DNA test."
"And?"
"It says that I am the one who did it," he said lowly.
"What are the sources?" she asked.
"Semen samples collected from vaginal swabs, DNA collected from pubic hair samples and a clear bruise thumb print on the inside of her thigh. Also a bite wound to the shoulder."
"Thank you, no further questions your honor. The defense would like to rest it's case." She said, going back to her seat.
"Very well. Bailiff, would you please get the defendant, I would like to start closing arguments.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Usagi and Trunks were sitting on a bench in the hall. She had her head buried in her chest, and he was rubbing her back soothingly, saying with actions, what was almost impossible to express with a thousand words.
The bailiff came up to them. "Are you ready to go back inside? The judge would like to call closing arguments."
Usagi lifted her head and looked at Trunks. Her eyes, although still slightly red with the crying she did, were determined and said she was ready to get this thing over with. Trunks looked at the bailiff and nodded. Helping her up, they returned to the courtroom.
~~~~~~~~~
The court room was quite when they entered. Usagi's gaze was cold and hard as was Trunks. They both refused to look at Mamoru and he himself was grateful for it. Taking their seats they waited for everything to begin.
"Would the prosecution start?" Judge Smith asked.
Mr. Haynes got up a bit reluctantly. He lost the case already, he knew it. He had tried his best and it was for nothing. 'Well at least I am going to get paid. It may not be as much, but it's still something," he said to himself.
"Your honor, Mr. Chiba is a man who simply wants to have a say in his daughter's life. He was deprived of getting to know her by her mother who was selfish enough to keep her from him. He just wanted to do what was right with her. All he wanted was to show his daughter love and affection. Sure he made some mistakes in the past, but that is the past. He has changed and wants to make up for what he did." Haynes said briefly. It wasn't the long lengthy speech he had prepared but it will have to do. He couldn't say anything else without sounding ridiculous and being called a fool. He sat down and thanked god that the case was being kept private and all the
transcripts sealed. At least now no one would ever know how humiliating the case was.
Mamoru was grateful as well. No one would ever know about this, and his job would stay intact.
Setsuna was up next. She walked gracefully to the front of the court room. "Your Honor, My client, Tsukino Usagi, just wants what's best for her family. She loves her daughter very much. She ensures that she is well taken care of and goes to a good school and makes sure she has everything she needs. The home environment is filled with love and warmth and security.
All my client ever wanted was to keep her daughter safe and secure. She wants to protect her from persons who will corrupt her daughter. And Mr. Chiba is obviously not a person to trust. He lies and deceives people. He manipulates women, and takes advantage of them, much like he has with my client. She was used by him, and although he hasn't showed that behavior with his children yet, it is still wise as a precaution not to leave Chibi Usa in his care.
Besides, what kind of father would just go for months on end and not look in on his children? They practically grew up without him. Face it your honor, what environment would be best for Chibi Usagi? One where there is mistrust and neglect, or one where there is a loving and caring environment. Where she is already loved dearly and is taken care of properly. Thank you," she concluded, sitting back down.
The judge straightened his papers and put them together neatly. "Court is on recess until further notice." Everyone filled out of the courtroom except for Mamoru and his team.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Outside, before anyone could ask any questions, Usagi held up her hand.
"I don't want to talk about, please. All I want now is to go and see my daughter," she said. She and trunks then went into the waiting room to the kids.
"That just makes me want to kill the kono yaro even more. What that onore did to her was inexcusable, Trunks feels the same way. And I am not just saying that as a friend but as a woman," Juuhachi said.
"Yes, you can feel the rage in him. It's practically radiating off of him. He will kill Mamoru if given the chance," Gohan said.
~~~~~~~~~
Usagi opened the door to the waiting room. All the kids looked at the door as soon as it was opened. Chibi Usa got up and ran to her mom. Usagi picked her up and held her as close as was possible. Annie went up to her dad, who smoothed down her hair. Chibi Usa felt something wet on her back and hugged her mother tightly around her neck.
"I am sorry mommy."
Usagi was very startled. She pulled her back to look her in the eye. "Why, sweetie?"
"Because Mr. Chiba hurt you, and it has something to do with me," She said.
"It's not your fault. It will never be your fault, do you hear me? You did nothing. I love you so much and I will always love you. Nothing will change that. What happened to me is none of your fault, ok?" She said firmly.
"Alright mommy," she said kissing her on the cheek. Usagi set her down on the floor.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Mamoru and his lawyers left and went into chambers.
"What was that? I thought that you were supposed to be the best," Mamoru asked.
"Well if you would tell me everything like I asked you, you wouldn't have lost. I specifically asked you to inform me about anything that might be used against you. And you didn't. If anyone lost this case it is you. It's your own fault," Haynes said.
"hm," Mamoru said in deep thought. Now that he had lost, his original plan had kicked the bucket. Well he had thought this through and had a plan two. "I'll give you the original amount we agreed on if had won the trial. I was at fault and you did a fine job," he said calmly.
Haynes couldn't believe his luck. He was getting full pay. Now he could settle his debts and have a little extra to continue his firm.
"Thank you Mr. Chiba," he said sincerely.
Mamoru didn't answer.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The bailiff called them after an hour. When they took their respective positions.
After the judge arrived they waited patiently for the verdict.
Judge Smith took a little while to settle and then started.
"Will the Plaintiff and Defendant please rise?" Both parties stood up. After going over this case, all I can say is that I am truly saddened by this. In a perfect world, a child needs to be raised by both their parents. They need the love and kindness of a mother and the strength and discipline of a father. In a perfect world, both parents are responsible and caring people, ready for the challenges and responsibilities of raising a child. The parents are mentally and physically ready and able to take on the responsibilities of child rearing. And most importantly they are in love with each other and are married.
But sadly, we do not live in a perfect world, for if we did then there would be no need for me and no need for you to be here. Alas, I am forced to do what I and the Law think are right for the child in question. A child is a precious gift that needs cherishing. They need to be taken care of properly. And it is my responsibility to see to that. Mr. Chiba," he said turning to him. "I feel that you are a man with issues that need addressing. Your blatant disrespect for women and the mother of you child. You give a bad name to men everywhere. This is due to your superior attitude that you have displayed in the courtroom. You show no remorse for what you did and that in itself is unacceptable.
You are unfit as a father. You have three other children, all of whom know you on a visiting basis. And while you take care of them in one important way, you are completely lacking in one other vital area. They need love and a father, not a money giver only. How can you say that you want to get to know the child in question, if you hardly know the ones you have? That is absolutely ridiculous."
Looking towards Usagi, his demeanor softened a bit. "I feel that Miss Tsukino has displayed very noble qualities. She took on the responsibility of raising a child by herself at the rather young age of 16 and has been doing it ever since. You will have to admire her strength for recovering from a traumatic experience so well and still being in a position to provide for her daughter. Her maturity as well is prevalent. She has been through a lot for her young age and is still going strong. And she has a lot of support from friends and family. And that is what this child needs. Friends and family who will support her and give her the love she needs.
While that can't replace a father's love, it is still sufficient. Mr. Chiba robbed himself of the privilege of being a father to this child with
his actions in the past. So it is with this that I grant full custody of the child to Miss. Tsukino. Mr. Chiba has no rights what so ever to the child. I am dismissing the claim of $100,000 by Mr. Chiba and am, even if it wasn't asked for, awarding Miss Tsukino $50,000 for pain and suffering. I also order the court documents to be permanently sealed to protect the child and both parties involved. Court is dismissed," He said.
Usagi and everyone else was ecstatic. Chibi Usa jumped to her mother and held her tight. Usagi did the same. There were pats on the back and such. Mamoru and his team left quietly, but not before he took a good look at Usagi. She was smiling and looked gorgeous. 'In time, Usa, and then you will be back where you belong,' he thought as he left.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In the courthouse parking lot, after everyone had somewhat settled down, Usagi was silent as she thought about something. Just as everyone was going, she turned to Rei and Minako.
"You two don't have anywhere to go, do you?" she said. Everyone stopped at that point.
"No we don't, but we can find a hotel somewhere to stay until we get settled," Rei said.
"No," she said, surprising the others. "You cannot. After helping me out, I just can't let you guys go. Your homeless and I won't allow you to live in a hotel. You guys are staying with me," she said firmly.
"WHAT?! NO WAY! I can't believe that after every……."
"Haruka, it's temporary. They helped me and now I am going to help them. Besides, Chibi Usa would be upset if I don't, wouldn't you?" she said, looking at her. Chibi Usa nodded vigorously.
"If you feel it's best Usagi, then I am behind you," Setsuna said. The other outers reluctantly agreed.
"Now that that's settled, let's celebrate!" Bulma said. "Everyone to my house. There's a part there for winning the court case!" Everyone was thrilled.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
IF you noticed, I purposely left out the name of the drug. Not because I
didn't do my research, but because I do not condone acts of violence
against women and will not help people who want to do something like that
along. It is a common drug and I don't want to feel guilty about when I
watch the news and see something like that.
Usagi sat in the witness box tentatively. She didn't know what to expect from Setsuna. She was nervous and it showed. After being sworn in, she looked around pensively. Usagi looked at Setsuna with wide eyes. Setsuna looked at Usagi reassuringly. She didn't want Usagi to be too nervous and choke on the stand. Usagi took a deep breath to calm herself down. Setting down she pushed her nerves aside and stared straight ahead.
"Good afternoon Miss Tsukino, how are you?"
"I'm doing alright," she said a little coolly.
"That's good to hear. Now I am going to ask you some questions and I want you to answer them honestly and frankly. Don't hold back on any answer. Are you ready?"
"As ready as I will ever be," she said softly.
"Ok then. Now we are going to take a look into the past. Do you remember when you were around 14/15?"
Usagi closed her eyes. She immediately saw where this was going and she didn't like it. Not one bit. Realizing it was for the best she sighed and answered, "Yes, I do."
"What was your relationship with Mr. Chiba at that time?"
"He was my boyfriend."
"Were you two serious about each other?"
"I was about him but I knew that it was one sided, even if he said it wasn't."
"When did you two start dating? How old were you?"
"I was 14; he was about 20/21." She said putting her head down. She decided to examine her hands instead of looking at Setsuna or anyone else for that matter.
"How long did the relationship last?"
"Less than 2 years."
"Were you two close during this relationship?"
"In a way, yes."
"I don't mean kisses and embraces; I mean were you two intimate during your relationship?"
"Oh no. I mean he wanted to be but I wanted to wait for marriage."
"Why? Most young women around that age want that kind of relationship."
"Well at the time I considered my um, purity, to be of the highest value to me."
"Why was it so valuable to you?"
Mamoru was a little scared. Turning his head to his lawyer he said, "Do something, Now!"
Haynes hurriedly thought of something. Standing up he quickly said "Objection your honor! This line of questioning has nothing to do with the case."
"Oh but it does your honor. I will use the past to help explain why the plaintiff shouldn't have custody of the child."
"Overruled. Continue Miss Meiou," the judge said.
"Thank you your honor. Now Miss Tsukino, answer the question please."
"It was precious to me because, I wanted to give it to my husband, who would also be the one I was in love with. I wanted it to be my gift to the man that I loved." she said embarrassed.
"Alright. Now during your relationship, how did Mr. Chiba treat you?"
"In the beginning, it was wonderful. He paid attention to me; bought me gifts and we went out often. But as time went on, things slowed down. He became more distant and treated me more like a child. I expected that. I wasn't the most mature person at that time. It was an awkward time for me."
"How come?"
"Because I had the worst sense of balance. I was constantly falling and tripping all over the place. I ate too much and acted like a ten year old. I think that he started to lose respect for me when he realized that I might never grow up and act my age."
"So as you as the relationship continued, did you lose trust in him?"
"I did. He would constantly break our dates and when ever I was around him, he'd either ignore me at times or make it obvious that he was tolerating me. And I had been around his apartment and found things that belonged to other women. Some of them belonged to my friends who were at his apartment constantly, but I didn't actually put two and two together. I was naïve, thinking that they were left by accident after we had some study sessions there."
"Well it was when I was 15. I went over to his apartment, early for once, and walked in. I had a key to it you see. Well I entered and saw him with another woman."
"Objection your honor! This line of………."
"Overruled. Continue Miss Meiou." Setsuna nodded at him.
"Who did you know they were more than just friends?"
She gave a small snort. "Well, I don't know many friends who are comfortable being nude on a floor in an awkward position like they were."
"Ok then. So you found out and what did you do?"
"Told him it was over. I never wanted to see him again. Then I went to my friend's house to get some moral support and got a second shock for the day."
"Which was?"
"He had cheated on me with all of them. Every one of them. I then decided that I didn't want to be associated with any of them and pointedly ignored them when it wasn't possible to avoid them."
"Then what happened?"
"Well that's when the calls started. Mamoru called me almost everyday to get me to talk to him again. Eventually out of annoyance I agreed to go out on a last date with him. He took me to a nice restaurant, outside of the city. I knew he was trying to make I up to me so I was cold towards him. After I said what I had to to him, namely stop calling me and to leave me alone. I went to the bathroom and when I came out we left as soon as I had finished a drink that I had ordered.
On the way home I became sick to my stomach. The pain was intense. I can only compare it to childbirth. Well it was obvious that I was too sick to go home, so he took he to his place which was conveniently nearby. We went in, he sat me down on the sofa, gave me something else to drink and the next thing I knew I woke up in his bed the next morning, unclothed." She finished.
Chibi Usa was confused. She didn't quite understand what was going on, but she knew that it was distressing her mother and it had to do with her. And she didn't like t when her mother was distressed. It made her feel protective and angry at the same time. She didn't understand why though, that she'd feel angry.
Setsuna during this time was listening to her carefully. Things weren't adding up. Setsuna stopped pacing.
"You know that you are under oath right?" Setsuna asked.
"Yes," Usagi answered a little confused.
Everyone was listening intently to this. They all wondered what could be up.
"Well then you must tell the truth. You aren't telling the full story."
Usagi hung her head so that no one could see her eyes. All present were stunned. Everyone had heard that version of the story. They had no idea that there was more.
"Now what are you afraid of? You need to let everything go. There's nothing to be ashamed of. You had no control over the situation." Setsuna said soothingly to her. Looking at the judge she asked, "Do I have permission to approach the bench?"
The Judge nodded, motioning for Mr. Haynes to follow as well.
"What is it?" the judge asked when they were there.
"I would like to make a motion to remove the children from the courtroom. The rest of the testimony will be graphic." Setsuna said. Haynes had no objection to this.
"Motion granted. Bailiff, please remove the children from the court." Chibi Usa looked at her mother as she left. She noticed some sparkly things falling from her mother's face. As she left she realized that they were her tears. But she never got the chance to go to her mother as the bailiff gently pushed her out the door, closing it behind him.
After they had been removed, Setsuna continued. "Now Usagi, tell us what else happened that night."
Still haven't looked up she took a long time to answer. Just when Setsuna was about to asked her again, she began.
"I woke up several times that night. They were brief periods of time but I remember them well." She said so softly that if it wasn't for the microphone, no one human would hear.
"Go on," Setsuna said, gently urging her.
"The first time I did was about a few minutes after I passed out the first time. I felt myself being moved around a bit. I was so numb all over, it was like I was paralyzed. My eyes were very heavy; I had to struggle to keep them open and not to slip back into unconsciousness. Then………….. I felt my clothes being removed." She said, swallowing to keep her voice from shaking. She clenched her fists tightly on top of her knees.
"I fell back into conscious for a while then I was jolted out of it. I couldn't open my eyes this time because they were too heavy. I couldn't talk either; my voice was locked within my throat. I………felt my……………legs being lifted and opened," she said closing her eyes tightly. Tears were flowing freely down her face.
"The next thing I felt was the pain. It felt horrible. It was a searing, burning sensation. I passed out because of it. I woke up often and had much the same experiences as with the second time. The last time I remembered was when he had finished. He had just gotten up. It was before dark and I tried to get up but I was still unable to move. I went unconscious after that and didn't wake up until late morning the next day." She finished softly.
Usagi was barely containing her composure. But no matter how hard she tried, the memory was too painful, even for her. She had managed to block out what had happened that night for a few months, but they came back as visions in her dreams. With each one more vivid than the last. What she had told them was the mild version, more graphic than what everyone thought, but certainly abbreviated. She wasn't going to tell anyone that version. Only three people knew it, herself, Mamoru and soon Setsuna.
Usagi tried to put them out of her head, but it was like trying to hold off a dam. Everything she felt, saw and heard him say during that
encounter hit her full force. Unable to hold back she broke down on the stand, crying so hard that her body shook with the force of her sobs.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Trunks was split in two. On one hand, he wanted nothing more than to give Mamoru the most painful and agonizingly slow death he could think of, and the other hand he wanted to go and get Usagi and take out of there. Well, the urge to get Usagi won out over killing Mamoru so he got up and went to her.
The judge had no objection to this and asked the bailiff to escort them out of the courtroom. To say that he was disgusted with the plaintiff was an understatement. Resisting the urge to come to a decision now, he turned to Setsuna.
~~~~~~~~~
Trunks took Usagi outside and sat her on a bench in the hallway. She was still crying, unable to stop the tears from flowing. Trunks held her in his arms as she cried.
Usagi's mind was bombarded by the memories of that night. They kept replaying in her mind over and over again. She clutched him shirt tightly as she cried, burying her head in his chest. He held her closely, letting her get it out of her system. He felt his anger and rage rising as he listened to her cry. He really wanted to kill Mamoru now.
Usagi felt Trunks rubbing her back soothingly. She started to calm down a bit, composing herself. She stopped soon afterwards, treasuring this moment which meant more to her than all the sympathy that everyone had given her.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Do you have any other witnesses to call?" he asked.
"Yes your honor. I would like to recall to the stand, Mr. Chiba," she said turning to looking at him with a piercing gaze that clearly suggested that she could see into his soul.
He was a bit unnerved by it, but remained calm on the exterior. When he got up to the witness stand, the judge reminded him that he was still under oath. Not that he cared in the slightest.
Setsuna got right to the point. "Mr. Chiba, Miss Tsukino brought up some serious accusations. Do you deny them?"
"Of course." He said simply.
"So you're saying that none of it happened?" Setsuna asked as she paced slowly across the front of the court room.
"I am saying that I did have sex with her, but it was consensual."
"Really?" she said stopping before him.
He looked her directly in the eye. "Yes."
"What if I told you I could prove that it wasn't?"
"Then I would call you a liar. There is no proof." He said confidently. He also had done some research and found nothing in the police reports, which even mentioned Usagi. Besides, she couldn't go to the past anymore. He had made certain of that.
"So you think that I am lying?" she asked coolly.
"I am positive that you are," he answered. She nodded curtly.
Walking back to her briefcase, she extracted two medium sized folders. Going to him, she placed it in front of him and gave the other to the judge. "Open it and read for me." She said.
Mamoru opened it and to his horror saw that it was a copy of an official police report. Scrolling down he noticed that Setsuna had highlighted some key parts in striking colors for easy reference. He realized that the judge must have the original.
He dared not look up, knowing that he was very pale and his guilt would show.
"Will you read the section highlighted in yellow out loud please?" she asked clearly.
Mamoru cleared his throat and drawing a breath began.
"It says, "The victim, Tsukino Usagi, Has suffered from a very vicious and traumatic rape. She has received bruises on her lower to mid upper thighs, a torn hymen and shredding of the vaginal walls. Dislocation of the pelvic bones and internal, as well as external bleeding. She was also severely drugged, borderline overdose of a paralysis causing drug, which has been increasingly being used for 'date rapes'. "
For those who understood, monster was the only thing that came to mind. Just the thought of a 15 year old going through that was awful.
"What does that say generally? You're a doctor and should be able to break that down for us" Setsuna asked him. They all waited patiently to hear his answer.
"Answer the question, Mr. Chiba," the judge said harshly.
"Generally it means that she was torn in two," he said emotionlessly.
"So do you still say that you are innocent?"
"I do. You just showed everyone that she was raped. It didn't show that it was me," he said calmly. He had backed her into a corner. There was no way to prove that he was the one who did it. Even if they had taken her to a clinic, there are policies which state that rape samples are to be destroyed after 3 years. It had been over 5 since then.
"Indeed," she said turning away from him. "You are correct, Mr. Chiba. There would be no way for me to prove it. But the circumstantial evidence is heavily against you. Chibi Usa was born almost exactly 9 months after that incident. And she is yours. It is very compelling evidence."
"Yes it is compelling 'circumstantial' evidence, but not proof. You need proof to show it was me."
"Yes I do. But even if I don't, I still have you guilty of statutory rape. Sex with anyone under 16 is a criminal offence, even if it was
consensual."
"True, but the statue of Limitations ended two years ago. Neither you nor anyone else can bring try to prosecute me for it.
"Indeed, that is true. But it still discredits you."
"True."
"But we have strayed off topic. Now what if I tell you that I can prove that you were the one who raped her?"
"I would have to see it to believe it."
"Fine then," she said. She removed another folder. This one was small and thin. Opening it, she handed some papers to Mamoru, another set to the judge and kept a last set for herself.
"Now I have a report here, which is a little confusing to me. Will you explain it, out loud to me?"
Mamoru looked at the document and realized that it was a DNA test. 'Nande kuso?' he thought to himself as he read it. He blanched unknowingly when he realized it was Usagi's. 'Kuso, these women are thorough.'
Setsuna was pleased with herself. She had him rattled and was going in for the kill. "What does this document say?"
"It's a DNA test."
"And?"
"It says that I am the one who did it," he said lowly.
"What are the sources?" she asked.
"Semen samples collected from vaginal swabs, DNA collected from pubic hair samples and a clear bruise thumb print on the inside of her thigh. Also a bite wound to the shoulder."
"Thank you, no further questions your honor. The defense would like to rest it's case." She said, going back to her seat.
"Very well. Bailiff, would you please get the defendant, I would like to start closing arguments.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Usagi and Trunks were sitting on a bench in the hall. She had her head buried in her chest, and he was rubbing her back soothingly, saying with actions, what was almost impossible to express with a thousand words.
The bailiff came up to them. "Are you ready to go back inside? The judge would like to call closing arguments."
Usagi lifted her head and looked at Trunks. Her eyes, although still slightly red with the crying she did, were determined and said she was ready to get this thing over with. Trunks looked at the bailiff and nodded. Helping her up, they returned to the courtroom.
~~~~~~~~~
The court room was quite when they entered. Usagi's gaze was cold and hard as was Trunks. They both refused to look at Mamoru and he himself was grateful for it. Taking their seats they waited for everything to begin.
"Would the prosecution start?" Judge Smith asked.
Mr. Haynes got up a bit reluctantly. He lost the case already, he knew it. He had tried his best and it was for nothing. 'Well at least I am going to get paid. It may not be as much, but it's still something," he said to himself.
"Your honor, Mr. Chiba is a man who simply wants to have a say in his daughter's life. He was deprived of getting to know her by her mother who was selfish enough to keep her from him. He just wanted to do what was right with her. All he wanted was to show his daughter love and affection. Sure he made some mistakes in the past, but that is the past. He has changed and wants to make up for what he did." Haynes said briefly. It wasn't the long lengthy speech he had prepared but it will have to do. He couldn't say anything else without sounding ridiculous and being called a fool. He sat down and thanked god that the case was being kept private and all the
transcripts sealed. At least now no one would ever know how humiliating the case was.
Mamoru was grateful as well. No one would ever know about this, and his job would stay intact.
Setsuna was up next. She walked gracefully to the front of the court room. "Your Honor, My client, Tsukino Usagi, just wants what's best for her family. She loves her daughter very much. She ensures that she is well taken care of and goes to a good school and makes sure she has everything she needs. The home environment is filled with love and warmth and security.
All my client ever wanted was to keep her daughter safe and secure. She wants to protect her from persons who will corrupt her daughter. And Mr. Chiba is obviously not a person to trust. He lies and deceives people. He manipulates women, and takes advantage of them, much like he has with my client. She was used by him, and although he hasn't showed that behavior with his children yet, it is still wise as a precaution not to leave Chibi Usa in his care.
Besides, what kind of father would just go for months on end and not look in on his children? They practically grew up without him. Face it your honor, what environment would be best for Chibi Usagi? One where there is mistrust and neglect, or one where there is a loving and caring environment. Where she is already loved dearly and is taken care of properly. Thank you," she concluded, sitting back down.
The judge straightened his papers and put them together neatly. "Court is on recess until further notice." Everyone filled out of the courtroom except for Mamoru and his team.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Outside, before anyone could ask any questions, Usagi held up her hand.
"I don't want to talk about, please. All I want now is to go and see my daughter," she said. She and trunks then went into the waiting room to the kids.
"That just makes me want to kill the kono yaro even more. What that onore did to her was inexcusable, Trunks feels the same way. And I am not just saying that as a friend but as a woman," Juuhachi said.
"Yes, you can feel the rage in him. It's practically radiating off of him. He will kill Mamoru if given the chance," Gohan said.
~~~~~~~~~
Usagi opened the door to the waiting room. All the kids looked at the door as soon as it was opened. Chibi Usa got up and ran to her mom. Usagi picked her up and held her as close as was possible. Annie went up to her dad, who smoothed down her hair. Chibi Usa felt something wet on her back and hugged her mother tightly around her neck.
"I am sorry mommy."
Usagi was very startled. She pulled her back to look her in the eye. "Why, sweetie?"
"Because Mr. Chiba hurt you, and it has something to do with me," She said.
"It's not your fault. It will never be your fault, do you hear me? You did nothing. I love you so much and I will always love you. Nothing will change that. What happened to me is none of your fault, ok?" She said firmly.
"Alright mommy," she said kissing her on the cheek. Usagi set her down on the floor.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Mamoru and his lawyers left and went into chambers.
"What was that? I thought that you were supposed to be the best," Mamoru asked.
"Well if you would tell me everything like I asked you, you wouldn't have lost. I specifically asked you to inform me about anything that might be used against you. And you didn't. If anyone lost this case it is you. It's your own fault," Haynes said.
"hm," Mamoru said in deep thought. Now that he had lost, his original plan had kicked the bucket. Well he had thought this through and had a plan two. "I'll give you the original amount we agreed on if had won the trial. I was at fault and you did a fine job," he said calmly.
Haynes couldn't believe his luck. He was getting full pay. Now he could settle his debts and have a little extra to continue his firm.
"Thank you Mr. Chiba," he said sincerely.
Mamoru didn't answer.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The bailiff called them after an hour. When they took their respective positions.
After the judge arrived they waited patiently for the verdict.
Judge Smith took a little while to settle and then started.
"Will the Plaintiff and Defendant please rise?" Both parties stood up. After going over this case, all I can say is that I am truly saddened by this. In a perfect world, a child needs to be raised by both their parents. They need the love and kindness of a mother and the strength and discipline of a father. In a perfect world, both parents are responsible and caring people, ready for the challenges and responsibilities of raising a child. The parents are mentally and physically ready and able to take on the responsibilities of child rearing. And most importantly they are in love with each other and are married.
But sadly, we do not live in a perfect world, for if we did then there would be no need for me and no need for you to be here. Alas, I am forced to do what I and the Law think are right for the child in question. A child is a precious gift that needs cherishing. They need to be taken care of properly. And it is my responsibility to see to that. Mr. Chiba," he said turning to him. "I feel that you are a man with issues that need addressing. Your blatant disrespect for women and the mother of you child. You give a bad name to men everywhere. This is due to your superior attitude that you have displayed in the courtroom. You show no remorse for what you did and that in itself is unacceptable.
You are unfit as a father. You have three other children, all of whom know you on a visiting basis. And while you take care of them in one important way, you are completely lacking in one other vital area. They need love and a father, not a money giver only. How can you say that you want to get to know the child in question, if you hardly know the ones you have? That is absolutely ridiculous."
Looking towards Usagi, his demeanor softened a bit. "I feel that Miss Tsukino has displayed very noble qualities. She took on the responsibility of raising a child by herself at the rather young age of 16 and has been doing it ever since. You will have to admire her strength for recovering from a traumatic experience so well and still being in a position to provide for her daughter. Her maturity as well is prevalent. She has been through a lot for her young age and is still going strong. And she has a lot of support from friends and family. And that is what this child needs. Friends and family who will support her and give her the love she needs.
While that can't replace a father's love, it is still sufficient. Mr. Chiba robbed himself of the privilege of being a father to this child with
his actions in the past. So it is with this that I grant full custody of the child to Miss. Tsukino. Mr. Chiba has no rights what so ever to the child. I am dismissing the claim of $100,000 by Mr. Chiba and am, even if it wasn't asked for, awarding Miss Tsukino $50,000 for pain and suffering. I also order the court documents to be permanently sealed to protect the child and both parties involved. Court is dismissed," He said.
Usagi and everyone else was ecstatic. Chibi Usa jumped to her mother and held her tight. Usagi did the same. There were pats on the back and such. Mamoru and his team left quietly, but not before he took a good look at Usagi. She was smiling and looked gorgeous. 'In time, Usa, and then you will be back where you belong,' he thought as he left.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In the courthouse parking lot, after everyone had somewhat settled down, Usagi was silent as she thought about something. Just as everyone was going, she turned to Rei and Minako.
"You two don't have anywhere to go, do you?" she said. Everyone stopped at that point.
"No we don't, but we can find a hotel somewhere to stay until we get settled," Rei said.
"No," she said, surprising the others. "You cannot. After helping me out, I just can't let you guys go. Your homeless and I won't allow you to live in a hotel. You guys are staying with me," she said firmly.
"WHAT?! NO WAY! I can't believe that after every……."
"Haruka, it's temporary. They helped me and now I am going to help them. Besides, Chibi Usa would be upset if I don't, wouldn't you?" she said, looking at her. Chibi Usa nodded vigorously.
"If you feel it's best Usagi, then I am behind you," Setsuna said. The other outers reluctantly agreed.
"Now that that's settled, let's celebrate!" Bulma said. "Everyone to my house. There's a part there for winning the court case!" Everyone was thrilled.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
IF you noticed, I purposely left out the name of the drug. Not because I
didn't do my research, but because I do not condone acts of violence
against women and will not help people who want to do something like that
along. It is a common drug and I don't want to feel guilty about when I
watch the news and see something like that.