The Pirate's Soldier

by operation meteor

Heero's career as a Preventers operative takes a strange turn when he gets caught up in a fight between a Juraian royal and a notorious space pirate. As the two alien beauties settle in with him on Earth and more soon follow, the former Gundam pilot soon finds himself to be the target of their affections, with a certain lovely outlaw at the front of the pack! M for some language.

10. Chapter 10

Author's Notes: Hey there, it's been a while! Sorry this one took so long, I was honestly having a hard time figuring out where to end it at. Not to mention life happened, and this isn't the only story I'm working on.

All right, enough with the excuses. Enjoy!

Chapter Ten: No Need For Time And Space Adventures, Part One!

November 10th, A.C. 198

Heero had barely walked through the front door when Ryoko came barreling down the hall like a cannonball. "Heero! You're back!"

Before the Preventers operative could react the lovely space pirate threw herself at him, nearly tackling him to the ground in the process. "Oh, you're finally home! How could you just leave me here like that? I missed you so much!"

"I missed you too, Ryoko," Heero replied, his breathing somewhat labored under the combined weight of Ryoko and the luggage that he was carrying.

"Release Sir Heero at once, Ryoko!" Ayeka yelled.

"No!" Ryoko protested, squeezing Heero even tighter than she had before, "I don't want him to leave again!"

Behind him, Heero heard Washu chuckle. "Looks like someone was lonely while we were away."

"Heero!" cried Mihoshi as she and the others rushed towards the entrance, "Welcome home!"

"How was the capital?" asked Kiyone.

"Did you bring back any treats?" asked Sasami, a big grin on her face.

"Meow!" cried Ryo-Ohki, jumping up and down excitedly.

"Calm down," said Heero as he finally freed himself from Ryoko's grip, "Can we at least get out of the hallway first?"

"Clear some room, people!" Kiyone barked, "We kept the place intact, so it'd be a shame for us to suffocate Heero right when he gets home."

Heero nodded as he and the others made their way to the living room. "Thanks. Looks like you did a good job taking care of things while I was gone. I owe you one, Kiyone."

The detective smiled. "I'll remember that. Welcome back, Heero."

"It's good to be back," Heero replied as he sat down on the couch and set his bags on the floor, "Did anything happen while we were away? You never did use the phone I gave you."

Kiyone shook her head. "It was pretty quiet, actually. Well, except for Ryoko's constant whining."

"Hey!" Ryoko snapped, folding her arms as she sat down next to Heero, "I wasn't whining! I just really missed Heero!"

She then glared at Ayeka. "Hey, royal brat! We're going to have some words later about your time in the capital with Heero, you got that?"

Ayeka gave her a smug smile in reply. "My, my, whatever do you wish to talk about, Ryoko? Is that insecurity I hear in your voice? Oh, I do hope so!"

Ryoko scowled, and crimson sparks danced in the palms of her hands. "Why, you little…"

"Enough," said Heero firmly, "We just got back, and I'd like to go at least five minutes without the two of you trying to tear each other apart. Stand down, Ryoko."

Ryoko sighed and leaned back on the couch. "Oh, fine, but only for you, Heero."

"How was Ryu-Oh doing, Ayeka?" asked Sasami.

Ayeka nodded. "Quite well. I daresay the tree is growing strongly, and at such a fast pace!"

"Gotta hand it to those Royal Trees," said Washu, "Those things are pretty damn tough. It was looking pretty good considering where it landed."

"That's excellent news," said Azaka.

"I would expect nothing less from such a powerful specimen!" chirped Kamidake.

"It will not be ready to be reintegrated into a ship anytime soon," Ayeka cautioned, "I'm afraid that Ryu-Oh still has quite a ways to go. Still, progress has definitely been made."

"How's my ship doing?" asked Sasami.

Ayeka smiled. "Very well. We did not go out to inspect it in person, but Lady Sally did send us some pictures. It's recovering quite nicely, Sasami. In fact, the Royal Tree at the heart of your ship may be ready for reintegration even sooner than Ryu-Oh."

"It helps that it didn't land in the middle of a lake," Washu quipped.

Deciding now was as good a time as any, Heero dug into one of his bags and started pulling out the souvenirs he'd purchased the others while in the capital. The first was a bottle of fine red wine, which he passed over to Ryoko.

"For you," he said, "I did promise I'd get you something, after all?"

Ryoko beamed as she took the bottle. "Oh, this looks good! You really are the best, Heero!"

She then leaned over and kissed him on the cheek. "If you want, I'll swing by your room tonight and we can pop it open. What do you say, handsome? Up for a little private wine tasting?"

"You shall do no such thing!" snapped Ayeka.

Ignoring the two of them as they descended into their usual bout of arguing and trying to suppress the slight rush of heat that had gone to his face with that kiss, Heero pulled a book out of his bag and passed it to Kiyone. "I wasn't sure what to get you, but I saw this and thought you might enjoy it."

Kiyone's eyes widened as she saw the title: To Protect And Serve: A History of the Brussels P.D. "Whoa… that's your capital's police force, right? Thanks! I'll definitely check it out later tonight."

"What about me?" asked Mihoshi.

"I've got you covered," Heero replied as he pulled out a red gift bag and passed it to her.

Mihoshi grinned when she opened it and saw that it was full of chocolate. "Yes! This is the good stuff, right?"

"Best chocolate in the capital," said Heero, "and I made sure to only get the kind that you like."

Mihoshi threw her arms around him. "Thank you, Heero!"

"Anytime," he replied as he did his best to gently extricate himself from her grip; she was stronger than she looked.

"Mmmm, that looks good," said Sasami, her mouth watering over Mihoshi's gift.

"Don't worry," said Heero as he pulled out another bag of treats, "I got some for you, too."

Sasami smiled. "Thank you so much, Heero!"

"Now it's not just candy," said Ayeka, "I helped Sir Heero pick out a balanced gift bag for you. He paid good money for that, so I expect you to eat it all, is that clear?"

Sasami nodded enthusiastically. "You got it!"

Ryo-Ohki started bouncing up and down on the couch. "Meow! Meow!"

Heero couldn't help but smile slightly as he reached down and pat the living starship on the head. "Don't worry; I didn't forget about you."

Digging into his bag, he pulled out a small red bag that was tied off at the end with a black string. Undoing the string, he let some of the contents spill out onto the table in front of the couch.

"Carrot-flavored chews," he said as he unwrapped one of the orange candies and passed it to the furball, "Try one."

Ryo-Ohki took a cautious sniff of his hand before gobbling up the treat. She quickly wolfed it down, and the light in her eyes told Heero all he needed to know.

"Meow!" she cried, little bits of sticky orange candy clinging to her teeth.

"You're welcome," said Heero before scooping the other candies back into the bag and passing it to Sasami, "You can decide how much she gets to eat per day. You seem to have a better understanding of her than I do."

Sasami nodded and smiled. "Thank you, Heero!"

"Hey, what about me?" pouted Ryoko, "Ryo-Ohki's my ship! I'm pretty sure I know her better than Sasami does!"

"Perhaps," said Heero, "but you have no sense of restraint. You'd spoil her, Ryoko; don't bother denying it."

Ryoko chuckled. "Well, I can't argue with that."

Heero stood up and grabbed his bags. "I'm going upstairs to unpack. Sasami, you and I will start making dinner when I come back down, all right?"

"Actually," said Kiyone, "why don't you get some rest when you're done unpacking? Sasami and I can handle dinner tonight."

"Are you sure?" asked Heero.

Kiyone smiled. "We did all right for ourselves while you were away, and I'm fine with cooking one more night. You look pretty beat, Heero, so why don't you take some time to catch your breath?"

"We'll call you when dinner's ready," said Sasami, "so go take a nap, okay?"

That sounded good to Heero; he definitely wouldn't mind the chance to sleep off the jetlag. "All right, then. Thanks."

"Anytime," Kiyone replied.

"Don't sleep too long," chirped Mihoshi, "Kiyone's cooking has gotten pretty good lately!"

"She hasn't set anything on fire, at least," Ryoko muttered, "Unlike you."

Ayeka yawned. "I think I'll do the same. Travel on your world's planes can be a surprisingly tiring experience."

"What do you expect?" said Washu as she headed off to her lab, "That's what happens you take long trips in antiques. Save me some food, okay? I'm gonna be busy for a little while."

Sasami nodded. "Got it!"

Heero's eyes narrowed. "What do you have to work on?"

Washu smiled. "Oh, just a few minor projects I put on ice before we left. Don't worry; it's nothing that'll put the house at risk."

There was something about her demeanor that didn't quite sit right with Heero. She seemed evasive, and she'd been a little withdrawn on the trip back to Japan. Something was up, but since Heero didn't have any proof there was nothing he could really do at the moment.

"All right," he said after a moment, "Just don't forget to grab some food later. It's not healthy to skip meals."

"Worried about me, handsome?" Washu replied with a wink, "That's cute. Well, if you're so concerned, you're more than welcome to join me in the lab. I wouldn't mind a little one-on-one time!"

"Washu…" growled Ryoko.

"Just what are you up to?" asked Ayeka, looking more than a little agitated herself.

"Nothing!" said Washu with a smirk before closing the door behind her.

Heero shook his head before heading upstairs; he was too tired to deal with any drama from his guests right now. As soon as he got to his room he shut the door, dropped his bags on the floor, and plopped down on the bed.

He was asleep before his head hit the pillow.

….

A shame he didn't take me up on the offer, thought Washu as she sat down at the main console in her lab, I was only half joking when I suggested the one-on-one time…

Back in the capital she'd only had a very brief amount of time to skim the contents of the file she'd snatched from Preventers' system before their journey back to Japan. Washu had been itching to dive into it in detail at the earliest opportunity, and once she was situated she immediately brought up the file. She would take her time to go over all the data in earnest, but right now there was one particular morsel that she wanted to take a look at, one that she had glimpsed during her first opening of the file but hadn't had time to fully appreciate until now.

It took just a few seconds for her to pull it up. The content was labeled as combat footage taken from a weapons system labeled 'Tallgeese'. From the time she'd spent with Heero so far she was aware that not too long ago mechanized warfare on this planet had been conducted with weapons known as 'mobile suits', but her host had not provided her with any concrete information beyond that. During her initial skimming of the file she had come across what had appeared to be part of a record of a clash between two such machines, and it was one particular piece of footage from that incident that had caught her eye and demanded a second look.

On the screen she saw what the file data had labled the XXXG-01W Wing Gundam. It was certainly an intriguing machine; Washu had never seen anything quite like it before. A white and blue mechanized fighting unit with yellow trim, a green sensor sphere embedded in its chest and two emerald 'eye' sensors, the mobile suit definitely cut an imposing figure. A crimson shield was mounted on its left arm, while its right held a very large and fearsome looking rifle. However, the unit itself was only of secondary interest to Washu. The primary object of her attention was the young man that was standing on the mobile suit's open hatch. If she had to guess, the boy was in his mid-teens at the most, but there was no mistaking his identity; it was Heero Yuy.

The image was currently frozen, and it showed him with his right arm raised in front of him. Zooming in, Washu could spot a grey cylindrical device clenched in his hand. The purpose of the device was immediately demonstrated when Washu resumed the footage; with a click of the button on the end, the Wing Gundam became a crimson fireball.

Washu had already watched this footage on the night that she had hacked into Preventers' database and stolen the file in the first place, and she had been utterly horrified the first time she'd seen it. The second time around wasn't any better even with that prior experience, and it was made all the worse with the higher quality images that the console in her lab was capable of providing. The cameras mounted on the Tallgeese captured all too clearly an utterly haunting image of Heero lying on the ground in a growing pool of his own blood before he was scooped up by a red, orange and white unit the file identified as the XXXG-01H Gundam Heavyarms.

"Damn…" she whispered, "It's a miracle he survived…"

Survive he had, of course, but that wasn't the most striking aspect of the affair. During her medical examination of Heero after the encounter with Nagi she'd convinced him to remove his shirt, in part out of necessity but also for her own viewing pleasure. While Heero did have his fair share of minor scars, what she had just witnessed should've left his back marred by nasty burns at the very least. However, apart from a handful of faded wounds there had been no sign of serious injury.

It was just one more piece of evidence that the discovery her lab equipment had made prior to the trip to Brussels was indeed correct. No ordinary human could've come away from that blast without being seriously marked by it, and even with advanced medical technology and sufficient time to heal there would still be signs of the trauma the explosion had inflicted upon him.

But you're not an ordinary human, Heero Yuy, she thought, Oh, no… not even close to normal. It would take far more than a blast like that to kill you…

….

November 11th, A.C. 198

"Well, now," said Katsuhito with a smile as Heero climbed the last of the stairs leading up to the shrine, "It's certainly been a while, hasn't it?"

"I was away on business," he replied, "I just got back yesterday."

Katsuhito nodded as he continued to sweep the area surrounding the shrine. "I see, I see. Was your trip productive?"

"Quite so," said Heero, "Did the girls come by here at all while I was away?"

The shrine keeper shook his head. "No, I'm afraid not. I was tempted to head on over and visit just to check in. In fact, had you not shown up here today I may well have done that later this afternoon. Tell me, how are those lovely guests of yours?"

"They're doing well," said Heero, "I'll see if they want to come along next time I visit here."

Katsuhito chuckled. "Well, I certainly wouldn't mind it if you brought them. They definitely brighten this place up a bit. I'm assuming you didn't come all the way up here for a social call, correct?"

Heero nodded. "If you're not busy, I was hoping for another match. I could use the exercise."

The priest smiled. "Sounds fun! I could always use a break from the cleaning. I'll be right back."

As the shrine keeper headed off to grab the wooden practice swords, Heero leaned against one of the stone lanterns that dotted the shrine. He glanced over at the nearby tree line for a moment before shaking his head. He'd felt like he was under observation ever since he'd left the house a little while ago, but he hadn't been able to find any trace of someone watching him from the shadows.

Stop being paranoid, he thought, I doubt Nagi's back already. You're just being jumpy because of what happened last time. Just relax and enjoy yourself.

Little did he know that his suspicions had some very real grounding in reality. Perched on the branch of one of the nearby trees was a small mechanical insect, very much like the drone that Nagi had used to observe him and the others prior to her attack. This device didn't belong to a bounty hunter, though.

It belonged to Washu.

….

Washu smiled as she saw the priest and her host take up positions across from each other, their wooden swords raised. "All right. Time for the show to start!"

She might've been crossing an ethical line or two in spying on him like this, but Washu felt it was justified in light of the information she had found in Heero's personnel file. Besides, it wasn't like she had him under constant surveillance. She had developed the bug-drone only to watch him when he left the house to train or visit the shrine keeper, and given that they almost always wound up sparring the latter was more or less the same as the former. Washu was very keen for any chance to observe the young man when he was engaged in any intense physical activity; it was vital for the research data that she was gathering on him.

The two combatants nodded before rushing towards each other. Heero quickly seized the initiative, opening things up with a rain of vertical blows. Washu didn't doubt that the strength behind each attack was impressive, but the old man was batting them aside without so much as breaking a sweat. The priest might not have youth on his side, but his skills seemed like they were more than enough to make up for that.

She watched as the shrine keeper fell back a few meters while fending off Heero's assault. That was when he flipped things around; he quickly parried the young man's next attack before making a swift thrust. Heero was able to deflect the strike, but in that moment the old man suddenly surged forward, and now it was the Preventers operative that was on the defensive.

Washu's eyes narrowed as her attention turned from Heero to Katsuhito. The way the old man was fighting looked oddly familiar, but she couldn't quite place where she'd seen it before. Going back and forth between him and Heero, she was struck by a sense of déjà vu with regards to both combatants.

Think, damn it, she mentally berated herself, If this feels familiar, there has to be a reason for it! Nothing about the events surrounding this boy is coincidental, I'm sure of it. That means there's something at work here too, and I'm just not seeing it.

It took a few more minutes of observation before the pieces started to fall into place. Washu had seen enough swordfights in her time that she could follow them easily enough, and it was thanks to that knowledge that she was able to recognize several slight openings that the priest could've used to end the fight but didn't. It wasn't that the old man was unaware of those small gaps in Heero's defenses, but that he was simply choosing not to take advantage of them. Also, the longer the fight went on, the more alike the two combatants' swordplay became. That led Washu to one conclusion; the priest wasn't simply sparring with Heero for exercise and entertainment, but was using the fight to actually train the young man without his knowledge. More importantly, Washu was beginning to realize why their swordplay was familiar; she had seen this style before.

It was Juraian swordplay.

"No way…" she said softly, blinking rapidly to make sure she was seeing this right, "Does that mean...?"

Renewing her focus on the shrine keeper, Washu could feel a few more lights start to click on in her mind. As he continued to press his assault on Heero, Washu became more and more confident that what she had previously considered to be wild theories were much closer to the truth than she'd first imagined. From the moment that she'd first met Heero, she'd had this sense that there was something familiar about him, although until the medical examination she'd had absolutely nothing to base that on. As she continued to study the fight, she realized that Heero wasn't the only one that gave her that feeling; she was starting to get the same vibe from the priest as well.

And she had a hunch that she knew why.

I'm gonna have to have a chat with the priest at some point, she mused with a smirk, If he's who I think he is…

…then we have a lot of catching up to do.

….

Falling back under the shrine keeper's offensive, Heero kept his cool and focused on keeping his defenses tight. The old man might've had the initiative at the moment, but the opportunity would arise to seize it for himself; he just had to be patient and ready to pounce the moment the opportunity presented itself.

Easier said than done, he mused as he deflected a series of rapid-fire strikes, The old man's a master with a sword. I bet Wufei would kill to throw down with him…

Katsuhito chuckled as he kept up his attack. "Very good! Your discipline improves every time we fight. With enough practice you'll get so good that nothing I can throw your way will hit you."

Heero smirked; the priest was being far too generous. "Whatever you say, old man."

Shifting his bokken downward, he redirected a vertical blow before finally launching his counterattack; a thrust right at the shrine keeper's stomach. At the very last possible moment Katsuhito was able to bring his wooden sword up to block the attack, but Heero refused to let it end there. Rushing forward, he began to push the old man back with a sequence of swift slashes, alternating high and low at random intervals to keep his opponent off balance.

The priest nodded and smiled as he weaved a virtual cocoon around himself with his blade, continuing to give ground but blocking all of Heero's attacks. "Excellent! Variety is the spice of life, and that applies to swordplay as well as anything else."

Heero didn't bother to answer; he was wholly focused on ending his losing streak and finally landing a hit on the old man. Katsuhito was right; he improved every time he sparred with the shrine keeper. His defenses became tighter while his attacks grew more precise with every exchange. Heero had never lacked for strength, but through these matches he was refining his power, giving it greater direction and focus without sacrificing its intensity. Sword fighting might've been an archaic form of combat, but for the Gundam pilot it was a superb method for training body and mind, bringing both of them closer together and refining reflexes and coordination.

He made a swift overhand strike, aiming for the priest's shoulder. However, he quickly realized that was the wrong more to make; his foe immediately parried the attack before countering with a slash at Heero's stomach. The Preventers operative was able to deflect the blow, but in the process he gave up his momentum. That was all Katsuhito needed to push forward, and once again Heero found himself on the defensive.

The old man came at him faster than before, and it was all Heero could do to keep his footing and bock the incoming strikes. Katsuhito unleashed a flurry of rapid slashes, all of them aimed at Heero's legs; if he wasn't careful the priest was going to knock him flat on his back. Rolling to the side, Heero tried to regain the offensive by striking at the shrine keeper's knees, but the old man was ready for him and effortlessly parried the attack before renewing his assault.

The priest smirked as Heero continued to narrowly block his attacks. "Not bad, but how long can you keep this up?"

Heero didn't answer, but that didn't mean the old man had asked the wrong question. Heero's endurance was top notch in a fight, but Katsuhito was no ordinary foe. The slightest slipup would be all the priest would need to end the duel, and a sword fight was the shrine keeper's home turf, not Heero's. He might've been younger than Katsuhito, but the priest certainly didn't seem to lack for energy when it came to a Kenjutsu contest. If the old man was tiring he gave no sign of it; his focus remained razor-sharp even when he chuckled or bantered with his foe.

Deciding to shake things up a bit, Heero feinted low before leaping up over his opponent. Coming down in a flip and landing behind the priest, the Gundam pilot took a swing at his enemy's back, but Katsuhito was ready for him; he brought his bokken behind his back and swatted Heero's strike aside with just one hand holding his weapon. He then whirled around and advanced on Heero again, unleashing a cyclone of slashes against the Preventers operative.

Ducking beneath a strike, Heero made a sweeping kick, trying to knock the priest on his back. In a single fluid motion, Katsuhito leaped over his leg and landed just behind Heero. The young man rushed to bring his blade up into guard, but it was too late; his enemy landed a solid hit on his right shoulder and sent him to the ground.

Katsuhito smiled and held out his hand. "And that would be the match. Very well fought, young man!"

Heero couldn't help but chuckle as the shrine keeper helped him to his feet. "Not well enough. I didn't even come close. Just like all the times before…"

The priest shook his head and patted him on the back. "Now, now, there's no need for that sort of talk. Your skills continue to grow with each match. There aren't many out there who can match you for tenacity, you know?"

You have no idea, old man, Heero mused, his mind flashing back to the explosive end of the battle in Siberia over three years ago, I'm pretty hard to kill, and I would know; I can't even take myself out.

He didn't say that to the shrine keeper, of course. "I've heard that I can be a little… stubborn."

Katsuhito laughed. "I'm sure you have! If nothing else, you certainly possess the determination of a warrior. With a little more refinement you'll be a force of nature as a swordsman."

Heero smirked. "I think that's still a long ways off, but thanks."

"You're quite welcome," the priest replied, "Care to go another round?"

Heero shook his head. "I think that's enough for one day. I need to be heading back; Sasami will have lunch ready soon."

The shrine keeper nodded and smiled. "Well, you certainly wouldn't want her cooking to go cold. Next time you visit, why don't you bring her by; I've got a few spare ingredients that she could use to spice up her tea, if she'd care to have some."

Heero nodded. "I'll be sure to let her know. Until next time."

"I'll be looking forward to it," said the priest as Heero headed towards the stairs.

That was nice, he thought as he slowly made his way back home, I actually missed those sparring matches when I was back in the capital. I'll have to swing by again real soon.

It was strange to consider such intense duels to be a form of leisure activity, but to Heero that's precisely what they were. While he definitely considered them to be a way to train and keep his mind and body sharp, he wouldn't deny that he also partook in swordfights with the shrine keeper because he actually enjoyed them. It was quite fun to physically test himself without actually putting his life on the line, and it was certainly a nice change of pace from his normal missions to be able to fight without taking life in the process. There were no consequences for those fights beyond a few scrapes and bruises, along with a slight hit to his ego, and Heero was more than willing to pay that price if it meant he could continue to engage in practice bouts with his friend.

Yeah… I guess the old man really is a friend, he mused, I never imagined I'd think of someone like him as a friend, but he is all the same. Actually, he kind of reminds me of Howard; he's pretty relaxed most of the time. If he's got any worries, he doesn't let them get him down.

He wished that he could be as easy-going as the shrine keeper. While his time with the girls had helped him 'loosen up' a bit, as a certain Gundam pilot from the L2 colonies might put it, Heero was still all too aware of the responsibility that rested on his shoulders. Even if Ryoko and Ayeka had promised to help him should another threat arise, Heero still considered himself to be the first line of defense, and that was not a duty that he took lightly. It was reassuring to know that he could count on some very powerful backup in the event of a hostile encounter, but Heero wanted to do all he could to avoid that sort of scenario in the first place. That meant first and foremost keeping a low profile, and being back in the Japanese countryside helped out considerably.

His mind briefly flashed back to the confrontation in the soccer stadium with Ayeka's drunken would-be assailant. He'd dispatched the threat quickly enough, and he had done so without lethal force, but there was something about the encounter that had bothered him ever since. Escorting Ayeka and keeping her safe was naturally a mission that Heero had taken with the utmost seriousness, but even so he had surprised himself with the cold fury that he had unleashed on the drunkard. He'd gone straight for the man's throat, and it would've been all too easy for him to snap the target's neck. His restraint had held, but Heero had come much closer to unleashing what he considered to be the dark beast within himself than the situation had called for. Ayeka had said nothing, but Heero knew that she had sensed something within him in that encounter, and he was aware that she had been considerably bothered by it.

What got into me back there?, he thought, When I grabbed that man, part of me wanted nothing more than to choke the life out of him. That wasn't a lethal force scenario, but I almost treated it like one. Was it because he was threatening a friend?

Yes, much like Ryoko, Heero considered Ayeka to be a friend. He felt similarly about the rest of the women that had taken up residence with him, but there was something about the pirate and the princess that had a deeper resonance with him. Was it because they had been the first two alien females that he had encountered and subsequently taken up guardianship over? The bond between the two of them and Heero had certainly more time to develop than his relationships with the rest of the girls, but was that all there was to it? Heero couldn't say, and it bothered him that he didn't have an answer. He had to be able to maintain his composure and professionalism whenever he was out in public with the ladies he had custody over; allowing his personal feelings to dictate his reactions to potential threats could potentially compromise his mission. Heero might've believed that people should live their lives by acting on their emotions, but there was a difference between that and being ruled by them and it was a line the young man tried not to cross.

"Keep it together," he muttered, "They don't need to see the killer within you."

Granted, he did feel a bit guilty about hiding just who he really was from his guests, but at the moment Heero really didn't feel like giving them the full rundown on his past was the best idea right now. He wanted to do everything in his power to look after them, and that would be much harder to accomplish if they were afraid of him…

…even if that fear was completely warranted.

Someday, perhaps, he thought, I can't hide who I really am from them forever. Ryoko, Kiyone and Washu would probably handle it the best. Ayeka's a borderline case; I think she's built up an image of me that's a bit too idealized. As for Mihoshi and Sasami… I don't know if their innocence could take that hit. I'd rather leave it intact for the time being.

He sighed and shook his head. "Who am I trying to fool? I'm just afraid..."

Afraid to lose them.

Afraid of them turning their backs on me.

Afraid of…

…being alone again.

Yes, as strange as it was for a man like him, what he was really afraid of was the truth of his past pushing the others away from him. Heero had survived on his own in the past, and had done so quite well, but something within him had changed since the day he'd met Ryoko and Ayeka. While at first he might've seen his alien guests as an imposition, the truth of the matter was that his lovely companions had grown on him considerably. He really had become quite attached to them, and he was genuinely afraid of alienating them by revealing just who he really was. He didn't know if they would still accept him if they found out just how much blood he really had on his hands, and that scared him far more than he was willing to admit.

It wasn't supposed to be like this. This was supposed to be just another mission, albeit one that was quite a few steps removed from the kind of assignments that he was familiar with. He was supposed to watch over the girls, and while he certainly didn't mind the fact that he had become friends with them in the process he hadn't realized just how attached to them he'd become. To make matters worse, he had absolutely no idea how to handle that.

I can handle combat just fine, he mused, but people? That's always been an area I've struggled with. The fact that they're all girls really doesn't help…

"Heero!" cried a very familiar voice from up above.

Heero didn't have to look to know that it was Ryoko that was calling his name. On another occasion he might've tried to dodge as she plunged down from the sky and threw her arms around him, but right now he was just too distracted to try. At least he was able to keep her from knocking him off his feet.

"Ryoko," he said with a sigh, "What have I told you about flying around like that?"

Ryoko smiled. "Oh, come on, Heero; it's not like there's anyone around who's going to see me out here! Besides, I really wanted to see you! You only just got back yesterday; we need to catch up!"

"I was only gone for a week," said Heero as he tried to extricate himself from Ryoko's arms.

Ryoko was having none of it, and only squeezed him harder. "Only a week? It felt like forever, Heero! Don't you know how worried I was? Ayeka had you all to herself; she could've tried anything!"

"Nothing happened," Heero replied, trying to ignore how she was pressing her breasts up against his chest, "Now please, let go."

She did so, her smile fading as she took a closer look at him. "Hey, are you okay? You look a little down."

Heero shook his head. "It's nothing. I just lost another match to the priest. No matter what I try, I can't seem to touch him."

Ryoko's eyes narrowed. "I don't think so. You've lost to him plenty of times before, but I've never seen it bother you. It's something else."

Not for the first time, Heero was reminded of just how perceptive Ryoko could be when she put her mind to it. It was a sharp contrast from the image of a selfish, lazy, impulsive and free-spirited woman that she normally projected. He was also struck by the fact that she seemed genuinely worried right now; a rare sight indeed when it came to the lovely pirate.

Would it be all right, he thought, if I told her?

Of all the women Heero was currently residing with, he felt that Ryoko was the one who might best understand him if he told her about his past. After all, from what she'd told him about hers, she was used to being on the wrong side of the law. However, there was a serious difference between piracy and the kind of death and destruction that Heero had caused. It would be one thing if he'd committed conventional crimes that she could relate to, but he'd gone well past that during his time with the colonial rebellion; assassination and bombings were not the same as thievery and armed robbery.

"Heero," said Ryoko, surprising him by tenderly caressing his cheek, "You know you can talk to me, right?"

This rare display of her gentle side had him off balance; it wasn't often that she let this kind of compassion and concern show. It certainly wasn't helping his internal dilemma.

Don't tempt me, he thought, I might actually go for it…

It was a strange thing for his head and his heart to be in such a conflict. There were plenty of reasons for him to keep the truth of his past hidden, even from Ryoko, but the urge to tell her was there all the same, and it was stronger than Heero had expected. Was it just because she had caught him at a bad time, or was it because it was Ryoko specifically offering her ear to him? For all he knew, it could've been a bit of both.

His head winning out over his heart this time, Heero shook his head and pulled back. "I appreciate that, Ryoko, but I'm all right. Really."

He was lying through his teeth, and he hated himself for it. After all, Ryoko had told him plenty about her past after the encounter with Ryoko, so if he owed anyone a similar explanation it was her. Be that as it may, he just couldn't bring himself to do it.

Ryoko gave him a skeptical look, and Heero was afraid for a moment that she might press the matter. If she did, he wasn't sure if he was in any condition to resist further. A second later he saw her relax and shrug; he'd dodged the bullet.

"If you say so," she said, "Still, if you ever need someone to shoot the breeze with, just ask, okay? I might just save some of that wine you bought me for an occasion like that!"

Her tone might've been casual, but Heero could tell from her demeanor that she was being sincere. It actually meant a lot to him, knowing that she really was willing to listen if he had something to get off of his chest.

Heero nodded. "I might take you up on that sometime."

Ryoko grinned. "Well, the booze and I will be ready and waiting!"

Heero couldn't help but chuckle, his mood getting a little lighter all thanks to the lovely rogue that now called his planet home. "Thanks."

"Anytime," Ryoko replied before putting her arm around him, "So, you still can't beat the old man, eh? Want some help with that? I could try to distract him the next time you two fight. I've got a few tricks up my sleeves!"

"I'm sure you do," said Heero, "but I'll take a pass on that. It won't mean all that much if I can't beat him without help."

Ryoko shook her head. "Not the way I see it. A win's a win, Heero!"

"Under other circumstances," Heero replied, "I might agree with you. This isn't one of them, though. If I can't beat him on my own then I won't really be able to measure how much my skills have improved. Besides, I think the old man deserves a fair fight."

Ryoko smirked. "Well, if you ever change your mind, the offer will be on the table!"

Heero nodded. "I'll try to remember that. Come on; let's head back."

He continued down the stairs, with Ryoko pausing only long enough to remove her arm from his shoulder and instead loop it through his arm. The gesture caught the young man off guard, but he didn't turn it down. There was actually something comforting to her presence at the moment, and he wanted to enjoy it as long as he could.

As long as Ayeka or any of the others don't spot us, he mused, I doubt they would react well to this…

For her part, Ryoko had a contented smile on her face as the two of them continued to descend the long path of stone steps. It was quite rare for Heero to see her like this. There was no mischievous look in her eyes, no snarky quip on her lips, and nothing to set off her rather short fuse. She looked relaxed, which wasn't unusual in and of itself, but there was also a sense of genuine peace and warmth radiating from her that definitely wasn't normal for her. It was a seldom seen side of her, and for Heero it felt good to know that he could bring this sort of gentleness out of her. For him, it was a sign of how she was more than just the wanted criminal that the galaxy at large new her as. She was a lovely and vibrant woman, and seeing her like this made the stinging defeat he'd suffered at Nagi's hands on her behalf entirely worth it.

"You know," she said as she looked around, "I'm not usually the type to stop and smell the roses, but… it's very pretty out here. I'm glad your bosses sent us out this way."

Heero nodded as he took in the surrounding trees, ablaze with the oranges, reds, and yellows of autumn. "So am I. You definitely can't get a view like this in the capital."

"How long will it stay like this?" asked Ryoko as a cool breeze tossed several leaves around them.

"A couple more weeks," said Heero, "The winter snows should come in soon enough."

Ryoko smiled. "Ryo-Ohki will like that. She loves playing in that stuff."

"I'm sure the others will enjoy it too," said Heero, "If nothing else, I imagine Mihoshi and Sasami will have some fun when it starts falling."

"Not just them," said Ryoko, "I wouldn't mind getting into a snowball fight with you if you're up for it."

Heero nodded. "I wouldn't mind that either."

Ryoko grinned. "Great! I can't wait to kick your ass!"

Heero couldn't help but chuckle. "Don't get too full of yourself. I don't go down that easily, you know."

His companion smirked. "Good. If you don't put up a decent fight it won't be any fun. Then again, who says we have to fight each other? We could just team up against Ayeka and the others! The two of us can probably take them."

"Perhaps," Heero replied, "but they might have something to say about the setup of the teams."

"What would they have to complain about?" asked Ryoko, "They'll outnumber us, so they shouldn't whine!"

Heero shook his head. "I meant that Ayeka might have a bone to pick with how you want the teams arranged."

"Hey!" Ryoko barked, "There's no way in hell I'm letter her get you on her team! She got to go to Brussels with you, so I get to have you on my team when the time comes for the snowball fight."

Heero shrugged. "If you say so."

The rest of their trek down the stairs passed in relative silence, but it wasn't an awkward one. Quite the contrary; Heero enjoyed the walk, and he couldn't help but feel somewhat reluctant as the house eventually came into view. Was their one-on-one time really over already?

No reason it has to be quite yet, he mused, his gaze falling on the tree in the middle of the lake.

He started moving in that direction, gently pulling Ryoko along with him. "Come on. We don't need to head inside right away, do we?"

Ryoko looked from him to the tree and back again before smiling. "I think we can wait awhile. I'll follow your lead, Heero."

Soon enough he was at the edge of the lake and taking the first step onto the string of stones that led out to the island. Ryoko simply floated alongside him, and a few moments later the two of them were sitting down beneath the tree, their backs resting against the trunk.

"Huh," said Ryoko as she looked up, "That's weird."

"What is?" asked Heero, following her gaze.

"The leaves," she replied, "They haven't changed as much on this tree as they have on the others."

That was something that Heero had actually caught a while ago, but it was still good to see that some of the others were noticing it too. The foliage of the tree they were resting against had somewhat shifted, but there was still plenty of green to be seen in its canopy. It definitely stood out when one compared it to the surrounding flora, and Heero was rather curious as to what made this tree different from the others in this environment.

"You're right," said Heero, "It's pretty strange."

Ryoko shrugged. "Oh, well. I'm no plant expert, so I'm not going to try to figure it out. Washu can take a crack at it if she wants to."

The mention of the mad scientist's name stirred a memory for Heero. He recalled that the red-head had shown an interest in the tree as well, although she hadn't seen fit to elaborate on that. Would she give him more information if he asked her now? Somehow Heero doubted that; Washu seemed like the type who enjoyed knowing things that others didn't.

"Hey," said Ryoko after a moment, "Do you mind if I ask you something?"

Heero was struck by her uncharacteristic hesitation, but nodded all the same. "Go ahead."

Ryoko looked down, and Heero couldn't quite tell if she was apprehensive or embarrassed. "When you and Ayeka were in the capital… nothing happened between you two, right?"

Heero shook his head. "No."

Ryoko smiled, looking quite relieved. "Good. I… I really was worried when you were away, you know."

"It's not like it was just the two of us," said Heero, "Washu was there as well."

"But even if it was just the two of you," Ryoko pushed, "nothing would've happened then, right?"

Heero shook his head again. "No."

He was being completely honest with her. While it wasn't hard to tell that Ayeka had feelings for him, Heero couldn't quite say that he reciprocated them. He definitely had a bond with the princess, and the incident at the soccer match in the capital had demonstrated that he was more than willing to protect her, but what he felt towards Ayeka didn't strike him as a romantic vibe. He did care for her, but there was something about that sentiment that was different than what he imagined romantic affection was supposed to feel like. With her, it felt more akin to what he supposed being with a close family member might be like, although he had nothing to really base that on and had no idea why that sort of sentiment came to mind.

His lack of hesitation in answering her seemed to put Ryoko at ease. "All right. I trust you, Heero. Hell, after all of the crap I've put you through I think I owe you that much."

Heero closed his eyes, savoring the cool breeze. "You don't owe me anything, Ryoko. Protecting you is my responsibility. I'm not doing this for favors."

His eyes snapped open when he felt Ryoko rest her head on his shoulder. "I know. You're a really good guy, Heero. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise."

Anyone but myself, he thought ruefully, but I don't have the heart to tell her that now…

"Hey," she said, "Got something else I want to ask you. Do you mind?"

Heero shook his head. "Go ahead."

"If you could be anything you wanted," she said, "what would it be?"

Heero raised an eyebrow; where was this coming from? "Why do you ask?"

"Because I think you're meant for more than this," she replied "Don't get me wrong; I think it's great that you work so hard to protect people. Still, a guy like you staying a simple peacekeeper for the rest of his life? I don't buy it."

"There's nothing 'simple' about my work," said Heero, "The fact that I'm watching over you and the others right now should be proof enough of that."

Ryoko shook her head. "That's not what I meant. Yeah, you've got a tricky job, but you've got the skills to do that and a hell of a lot more. It's a waste for someone like you to be stuck way out here in the backwoods as nothing more than a soldier. You can be so much more than that. The galaxy's a big place, Heero; you could totally make your mark out there."

"I didn't even know there was a wider galactic civilization until you and Ayeka got into a fight up in orbit," said Heero, "and since my jurisdiction is limited to the Earth Sphere it's not like I've taken the time to think about what I might do should I leave it."

"But you could, you know?" said Ryoko with a wink, "All you have to do is ask and I'll have you out of this system before your bosses realize that you've flown the coop!"

For some reason Heero couldn't pin down, her offer was considerably more tempting than it should have been. "I can't just leave my post, Ryoko. I don't even know what I would do if I went out into the wider galaxy."

"Why not just fly around with me?" asked Ryoko, "I could show you the sights, and whenever we need some cash we could just hit a bank or transport; they're pretty easy to rob after you've had a little practice!"

Heero shook his head. "The sightseeing bit sounds nice, but not the robbery part. That's not who I am, Ryoko."

"Oh, come on!" Ryoko pushed, "I think you'd make a great outlaw, Heero! You're already pretty good in a fight; I'd just have to teach you the other tricks of the trade and you'd be all set. We'd be unstoppable together!"

I have a feeling that I already know at least a few of those 'tricks of the trade', he mused, I was part of an insurrection against the UESA and OZ, after all. That really just makes me a different kind of outlaw than what Ryoko's used to.

"Sorry," he said, "I just don't see myself taking up the pirate's life, Ryoko."

"Well, then what kind of life would you take up, Heero?" she asked, "There's got to be something out there that you want!"

Heero sighed. "If there is, then I have no idea what it is. I've never really given much thought about life beyond my missions, Ryoko. This is the life that I know."

"But it's not the life that you want, is it?" Ryoko pressed, "Come on, Heero; can you honestly tell me that you want to spend the rest of your life at the beck and call of the government? I'm sure that you do good work, but there has to be something else out there for you!"

Heero looked up at the sky. He'd been content with his life serving in Preventers and protecting the people of the Earth Sphere, but he couldn't deny that Ryoko's words did resonate with him. Safeguarding the peace was important, and acting in the defense of others was a noble calling that helped him feel like he was at least trying to make up for the sins of his past, but was this really what he wanted? Living for the sake of others might've been admirable, but it meant putting aside his desires… or forgetting what they were in the first place.

What sort of life did he want? Would it truly satisfy him to remain in the service of Preventers, protecting the world at the expense of self-discovery? Or did part of him secretly want to break out of this mold, to find liberation and explore the world that he had defended up until now? Those were questions that he found impossible to answer; indeed, he had never even asked them before now.

"Heero?" said Ryoko softly, "Are… are you okay? Did I say something wrong?"

Heero shook his head, unable to suppress a small smile. "I'm fine, Ryoko. You didn't say anything wrong. Quite the opposite, in fact."

It was true that he didn't know what he wanted beyond his current life as a Preventers operative, but at least now Ryoko had him trying to think about it. Heero doubted that he would find the answers he was looking for anytime soon, but he was fine with that. Whatever conclusion he ultimately came to, he knew that he would owe Ryoko a great debt for helping him set off down the road to finding out what exactly he wanted out of his life. Her idea of him joining her as a pirate was out of the question, however amusing he might find the prospect. However, the part she had mentioned about flying around the galaxy with her definitely had its appeal.

If I didn't have so many people to watch over, he mused, I might've considered taking some time off. Travel around the Earth Sphere a little bit, revisit a few places as something other than a soldier… it would be nice to see the world from the perspective of a civilian instead of a fighter. Hell, I wouldn't mind travelling with Ryoko if it came to that; she'd make things entertaining, if nothing else. I'd have to rein in her criminal tendencies, but that's a challenge I'd be willing to take on.

He stood up and offered Ryoko his hand. "Come on, let's head back. It'd be a shame if the lunch Sasami made got cold."

As he pulled her to her feet he saw that she was still a little concerned. "Okay, but… are you sure you're doing all right?"

Heero nodded. "I am… and I have you to thank for that."

Ryoko's eyes widened slightly. "Really?"

"Do I look like I'm joking?" said Heero as he started across the stepping stones towards the shore.

"Well, no," Ryoko replied, still looking a bit confused as she floated alongside him.

"There you go, then," said Heero, "I'm quite all right, Ryoko. Thank you."

Ryoko looked like she was expecting him to elaborate a little further, but after a moment she appeared to give up on that. Instead she simply smiled.

"Anytime, Heero."

….

Washu smiled as she watched Heero and Ryoko on her monitor. "Well, now… that was quite educational."

She had debated whether or not she should continue to observe Heero with her bug when Ryoko had joined him on the stairs. His training round with the priest had already ended, and with it Washu had lost her main reason to spy on him today, but after a moment's deliberation she had decided to keep her little drone in action. It had not escaped her notice that, of all the girls currently residing in the countryside house, Heero seemed to have the best rapport with her daughter.

He's stuck his neck out for her at least a few times already, she mused, and as selfish as she is, I know Ryoko appreciates it. He wouldn't do that just out of duty, though; he's built up a connection with her, whether he knows it or not.

That connection meant that there was the possibility of Heero letting his guard down if he and Ryoko had some one-on-one time, and that alone was reason enough for Washu to keep up her surveillance even after his training session with the shrine keeper had ended. Her personal experience with him combined with the information in his personnel file had given Washu a solid foundation, but there was still so much about the young man playing host to her that she wanted to understand, and she was not above eavesdropping on a private conversation to accomplish that end.

So Heero wasn't entirely satisfied with his current career? He hadn't actually said as much, but it wasn't hard for Washu to read between the lines. It wasn't exactly surprising to Washu that Heero might want something beyond his position as a Preventers operative, but it was still intriguing to hear him admit that not only did the possibility exist but that he wasn't even sure what it might be. She supposed that was to be expected; after all, from what she'd learned about him so far it was clear that he still didn't know much about life outside of the battlefield. He was doubtlessly aware that there were other options available to him, but he had no idea as to what path he could pursue outside of his current one.

That was something that Washu wanted to change. For her research to progress further it was important for Heero to seriously push back against the boundaries that he had unwittingly constructed in his life. Just being exposed to and interacting with Ryoko and the others had already helped kick-start the process; it was clear to Washu that he was looking at things from a different perspective now than how me might have before meeting his alien guests. That wasn't enough, though. She wanted Heero move beyond simple curiosity and pondering possibilities to actively exploring just what else life had to offer a man like him. He needed to not only question where he was in his life but to start figuring out where he really wanted to be going with it. Getting him to do that was a case of easier said than done, though. His current assignment was rather confining; he couldn't leave this countryside retreat because of his responsibilities towards Washu and the others, and she highly doubted that his superiors would let him take a solo vacation anytime soon.

How could she start pushing him outside of his comfort zone? That was the big question, and despite her genius Washu found herself at a bit of a loss for an answer. She was all for the hard sciences, but this felt like a task better suited to a psychologist; the 'soft sciences' and her didn't tend to get along very well.

I need to get him away from here, she thought, I need to get him to a place where he feels liberated and has the means to make his own decisions. He's stuck here because of me and the others, though. Damn it, how the hell am I supposed to work around this? It'd almost be easier to create an entirely new world and just throw him into the middle of it.

Washu's eyes suddenly widened as the proverbial light clicked on in her head. She didn't need to make a new world.

She needed Heero to make one.

And she had an idea about how to pull that off.

….

November 18th, A.C.198

"It's been a whole week now," said Ayeka as she took a sip of her tea, "I must admit to being somewhat… concerned."

"I'm with you there," said Kiyone, "I wonder what she's been working on. Knowing her, it's probably illegal."

"I hope she's doing okay," said Sasami, "She hasn't even come out of there for meals. It's not healthy for her to stay cooped up in there like this!"

"You keep bringing her food, though," chirped Mihoshi, "I'm sure she's all right, Sasami!"

I don't know, thought Heero, glancing towards the closet door, I haven't seen Washu hole herself up in her lab like this since she arrived here. I don't know why, but I'm starting to get a bad feeling about this…

Washu retreating inside her lab for a while wasn't exactly unusual in and of itself; the red-headed mad scientist typically spent more time there than anywhere else in the house. It was fairly common for her to stay inside for a couple days at a time when she was working on something. However, she would still venture out for meals and to interact with the others, and Heero suspected that she also came out of her lab so she could observe him, although he had no proof to back that up. For her to confine herself for a week straight with nary a peep to the others as to what she was up to was rather unnerving.

To his right he saw Ryoko shrug as she flipped through channels on the TV. "She's fine. Knowing her she's probably working on some 'brilliant invention' that will end up making our lives miserable. I say leave her to it."

"I heartily concur," said Azaka.

"It's best to leave her to her work," chirped Kamidake, "As long as she is preoccupied with other matters she is not devising ways to… subvert us."

Kiyone raised an eyebrow. "I thought Royal Guardians couldn't be subverted by anyone."

Ayeka glanced nervously at the lab. "So it is said. Washu has threatened in the past to prove that wrong, but… well, I'm sure it was a bluff. Even she must have her limits… yes, it was just empty boasting on her part."

"You don't sound entirely confident of that," said Kiyone.

Ayeka folded her arms. "Well, excuse me for hedging my bets! One can't put anything past that… that maniac!"

"Don't let her hear you say that," Ryoko quipped, "or else it'll be frog-time again."

"Well, the same will go for you if I tell Washu what you said earlier!" Ayeka shot back.

"Hey!" Ryoko barked, "Not fair! You freaking agree with me that she's nuts, for crying out loud! You don't get to sell me out over that!"

"Please don't start fighting again, you two!" begged Mihoshi, "We don't need you to make another mess of the living room again!"

"I could certainly do without that," Heero muttered as he took a sip of his tea while scratching behind Ryo-Ohki's ears.

"Meow…" murmured the living starship as she lounged on Heero's lap, although whether it was in agreement with his statement or contentment with his petting he could not say.

"Should I go check on her?" asked Sasami.

"Knock yourself out, kid," said Ryoko.

"That may not be wise, Sasami," said Ayeka, "Disturbing Washu during her research can be somewhat… hazardous."

"That's putting it mildly," Kiyone muttered, "At least she hasn't set anything on fire recently."

"Or blown anything up!" Mihoshi chimed in.

"Sometimes I'm amazed that this place is still standing," Azaka commented, "Miss Washu's experiments have certainly put it to the test."

"This dwelling must surely be blessed by Tsunami," chirped Kamidake, "Nothing else could explain its continued survival under these circumstances."

Ayeka sighed. "I fear all the divine protection in the universe may not be enough to protect this residence from that woman's madness. Sir Heero, is it truly impossible to convince Washu to set up a laboratory outside of our current domicile? Surely she must be capable of creating such a structure."

"She's comfortable where she is," Heero replied, "I doubt anything we say at this point will convince her to pack up and relocate, even if it would be a relatively short move."

Kiyone shrugged before taking another sip of her tea. "Well, even if she won't relocate, at least while she's in there she's not terrorizing us with the results of her experiments out here. We've finally got some peace and quiet, and I'd rather hold onto it for a little while."

Heero had a hard time arguing with Kiyone on that. Things had been pretty calm following his, Ayeka's, and Washu's return from the capital. Ryoko and Ayeka's fighting had actually been kept to a minimum, Mihoshi had miraculously refrained from breaking anything, and no extraterrestrial threats had seen fit to disturb them. This was a trend that Heero wholeheartedly approved of and wanted to last for as long as possible. That being said, he could not deny a growing sense of foreboding whenever he glanced in the direction of Washu's lab. Things might be quiet now, but he feared that the longer Washu remained cooped up in her lab meant that whatever experiment she was working on now would only prove all the more disastrous when it was finally unveiled.

I can't help but feel like I'm sitting on a time-bomb here, he mused darkly, If Washu was capable of paying rent I'd be charging her extra for undue stress, not to mention the constant hazard she poses to the house…

"I'm going to bring her some tea," said Sasami before heading off to the lab, "Someone needs to make sure she's staying healthy, after all!"

"Please be careful, Sasami!" said Ayeka nervously, "If you see anything untoward, I want you to come get us right away!"

Sasami smiled, and Heero had to wonder if her innocent expression was real or a very convincing façade. "Okay!"

"She's a gutsy one," Ryoko muttered as the younger royal disappeared into the lab, "Either that or she's nuts."

"How dare you talk about my sister that way!" Ayeka barked, "I demand that you take your words back at once!"

Ryoko folded her arms. "Hey, don't get mad at me just because I'm right! Your sister's sweet, but she's got a few screws loose, Ayeka."

"Sasami's innocent, not crazy," countered Kiyone, "and Washu's treated her well in the past. She's not at risk of any harm from her."

"Perhaps not intentional harm," said Ayeka as she glanced back at the lab, "but there is always the possibility that something could go wrong while she's in the lab."

"I'm sure that Washu will be careful while Sasami's back there," said Heero, although privately he wasn't entirely convinced of that.

"She'll be fine!" chirped Mihoshi with a smile, "You all worry too much, you know that?"

"Someone has to," Kiyone muttered.

"If you're so worried about her," said Ryoko with a smirk, "then why don't you go in there and check up on her, Ayeka?"

Ayeka gulped, not looking particularly thrilled at the prospect of venturing into Washu's lab, "I shall… if she does not return soon! Azaka and Kamidake shall accompany me, of course!"

"Oh, dear," said Azaka.

"I'm not looking forward to this," chimed Kamidake.

"For Royal Guardians, you two are sort of lacking in the bravery department," said Kiyone.

Ryoko chuckled. "No kidding. I've met pickpockets with more guts than these two oversized garden decorations."

"G-garden decorations!" sputtered Azaka indignantly, "Why, I've never suffered an insult such as that before!"

"How dare you belittle us!" squawked Kamidake, "You are just the worst, Ryoko!"

Ryoko gave the guardians an evil grin. "And? Are you actually going to do something about it or just sit there and take it? I'm ready to throw down anytime you old relics are!"

"We restrained you once!" Azaka countered, "We can repeat the feat if necessary!"

"As soon as Princess Ayeka gives the word, we'll give you another demonstration of our power!" chirped Kamidake.

Ryoko waved dismissively. "Please. The only reason the two of you captured me the first time was because I was fighting Kiyone. Besides, I was holding back because I knew that Heero didn't want me to kill her or break you guys. If you two want to go another round, that's fine, but this time I won't be pulling my punches."

"No one is going to be fighting anyone today," said Heero firmly, "Is that clear?"

Ryoko sighed. "Fine. If Ayeka orders them to try something, though, all bets are off. You got that, Heero?"

"I'm sure that won't be a problem," Heero replied before turning towards the princess, "Will it, Ayeka?"

Ayeka shook her head. "No, of course not. Azaka, Kamidake! Stand down!"

"Understood, Princess Ayeka!" the two guardians replied in unison.

"Thanks," said Heero as he took another sip of his tea, "I'd rather avoid having to clean up the mess a fight between you three would cause in here."

"I'm with you there, Heero," said Kiyone, "and I bet Ryo-Ohki is too; she looks pretty comfortable over there with you."

"Meow!" Ryo-Ohki affirmed as Heero shifted his scratching to the back of her neck.

Heero looked back at the door to Washu's lab, his brow furrowing in concern. As much as he would like to stay out here, enjoy his tea and continue to pet Ryo-Ohki, he was feeling more anxious than ever now about his red-headed guest. Not only were his instincts telling him that something was up, but Sasami had been in the lab now for longer than Heero had thought she would be.

He sighed before gently nudging Ryo-Ohki off of his lap and standing up. "I'll be right back. I'm going to check on Sasami and Washu."

Ayeka's face paled. "Are you sure that's wise, Sir Heero?"

Heero shrugged. "Probably not, but I'm going all the same."

He was surprised to see Ryoko stand up as well. "I'm going too. I'm not letting you go in there alone. Who knows what she's cooked up in there over the week, right?"

Heero nodded, glad to have some backup before walking into what could be a dangerous situation. "Thanks."

Ayeka sighed before standing with them. "Then I shall go as well. I cannot be shown up by the likes of Ryoko, and I am worried about my sister. Let's get this over with, shall we? Azaka! Kamidake!"

"Here we go," said Azaka.

"If we must," chimed in Kamidake.

Kiyone rolled her eyes. "Well, if the rest of you are going in, Mihoshi and I might as well tag along. Depending on what Washu's working on this time we might actually have to arrest her."

"We can't do that, Kiyone!" cried Mihoshi, "She's our friend!"

"She's also an infamous scientist who was exiled and sealed in a stasis pod for creating weapons capable of threatening the entire galaxy!" Kiyone shot back, "Get a hold of yourself, Mihoshi! If Washu's making weapons like the ones she created in the past then we have to do our duty!"

"I doubt she'll go quietly if that's the case," Ryoko muttered.

"Which is why we'll need the rest of you to help us if she's gone too far," said Kiyone, "Heero, I know Washu's under your custody, but still…"

Heero nodded. "It's all right, Kiyone; I understand. If she's built something that's truly a threat, then I'll do what I must."

I just hope it doesn't come to that, he silently nodded, I'd rather avoid aiding in her arrest, but if she forces my hand…

"Meow!" cried Ryo-Ohki, and Heero saw her hop off the couch and onto Heero's shoulder.

The Preventers operative couldn't help but chuckle. "You too, huh?"

Ryo-Ohki nodded. "Meow! Meow!"

Heero nodded. "All right. I hope you're ready for whatever we find back there."

"Hey!" snapped Ryoko, "Are we going or not?"

"Of course we're going!" said Ayeka firmly, "I am not letting my sister spend a second longer in that lab than necessary!"

Heero led the way to the lab door and slowly opened it. "Washu? Sasami?"

There was no answer, which left Heero with no choice. He cautiously stepped into the lab, with the others right behind him.

"Sasami!" yelled Ayeka, "Can you hear me?"

"You okay back there?" called Kiyone.

"Princess Sasami!" called Azaka and Kamidake.

"Did Washu like your tea?" asked Mihoshi, prompting facepalms from the rest of the group.

"Airhead," Ryoko muttered.

"Mihoshi!" snapped Kiyone, "We've got more important things to worry about right now than that!"

Mihoshi giggled. "Oh, right. Sorry, Kiyone!"

Ayeka shook her head. "How in the name of Tsunami have you remained on the force for so long?"

"You have no idea how many times I've asked that same question," Kiyone deadpanned.

"Stay focused," Heero chided them as they went deeper into the lab, "Sasami! Washu! Where are you?"

"Oh, hey Heero!" he heard Sasami reply from pretty far back.

"What's up?" Washu called, sounding entirely too casual for Heero's liking.

Ayeka's eyes widened in indignation. "What's up? You've been back here for a week straight, and that's the first thing you say to us? What are you up to, and what have you done with Sasami?"

"Sasami's fine!" Washu yelled, "And as for what I've been working on, I was actually just about to show you guys. Come on; hurry your asses back here!"

Ryoko rolled her eyes. "Great. Show and tell with a maniac. What could possibly go wrong?"

"Now now, Ryoko," said Mihoshi with a wave of her finger, "It's not nice to call your mom names like that!"

Ryoko scowled at the blonde cop. "I swear, if Heero weren't here right now I would end you."

"And that's another count of threatening an officer added to your rap sheet," said Kiyone.

The pirate folded her arms. "Bite me!"

"Hey!" yelled Washu, "Are you guys coming or not? I'm not paid by the hour, you know!"

"I wasn't aware that she was paid at all," said Ayeka.

"Let's get this over with," said Heero as he led the group deeper into the lab.

"You guys have to see this!" he heard Sasami call, "It's incredible!"

"That sounds promising," Kiyone muttered.

"Not the word I'd use for it," Ryoko deadpanned.

Whatever it is, thought Heero as he saw light up ahead, we'll know soon enough…

A few meters further and he could make out both Sasami and Washu. They were both standing in front of a console, which in turn was mounted at the base of what appeared to be a large glass tank. Within the tank was a green sphere suspended in light green liquid and connected to its container by a series of wires. There was an orange circle in the middle of the sphere, and as Heero got closer he could see it actively looking around, almost like it was studying its environment.

"Over here!" cried Sasami as she waved at them.

Washu smiled. "About time you guys showed up!"

"Sasami!" cried Ayeka as she rushed towards her sister, "Are you all right? She hasn't done anything… unnatural to you, has she?"

Sasami looked confused. "What are you talking about, Ayeka?"

The elder princess breathed a sigh of relief. "Never mind."

"Meow!" cried Ryo-Ohki as she hopped off Heero's shoulder and into Sasami's arms.

"Hey, Ryo-Ohki!" said Sasami with a grin, "Were you worried about me, too? Aw, you're so sweet!"

"I take it this contraption is the fruit of your labors over the past week?" asked Kiyone as she pointed at the sphere in the tank.

"It looks somewhat… ominous," said Azaka.

"That's one way to put it," chirped Kamidake.

"What is it?" asked Mihoshi.

Washu grinned. "I'm glad you asked. This is a little masterpiece that I've christened the Dimension Turner!"

"The what?" asked Ryoko, not sounding the least bit impressed.

"Dimension…Turner?" said Ayeka, looking more than a little apprehensive.

"Dare I ask what it does?" said Heero, hoping he didn't sound as nervous as he actually was.

Washu nodded. "Simply put, it controls dimensions and cause and effect. Isn't it wonderful?"

Mihoshi blinked. "It does what?"

Washu rolled her eyes and groaned. "This device determines variable factors in time and space based on specified criteria."

Ryoko nodded. "And that means… what, exactly?"

Washu scowled. "Fine, I'll dumb it down even more! With this machine, you can create a nexus from the infinite possibilities that exist within space and time. Is that clear enough for you?"

"I'm… afraid not," said Ayeka sheepishly.

"Ditto," said Ryoko.

Washu hung her head, frustration clearly getting the better of her. "Aaagh! What the hell is wrong with you people? Do I have to beat it into your heads with a sledgehammer?"

Ryoko folded her arms. "Well, if you try using words that normal people understand we might all get on the same page here!"

Washu glared at Ryoko. "Are you trying to piss me off, daughter? That's not going to end well for you."

Heero stepped between the two of them, hoping to keep things from boiling over. "Easy, there. Washu, I'm sorry, but if you could please try to describe this device's function in more… layman's terms, I think we'll be able to follow you better."

"At least I'll be able to figure out if I have to arrest her or not," Kiyone muttered, "This is why I hate mad scientists…"

Washu sighed. "All right, then. Listen up, because this is the last explanation that you all get! This device has the ability to create whatever kind of world the user desires! Is that clear enough for you?"

Heero's eyes couldn't help but widen slightly at that, and his was the mildest reaction in the group. The ladies surrounding him looked absolutely floored, and he honestly couldn't blame them.

She can't be serious, he thought numbly, This thing…

…can create a world based on someone's desires?

Ryoko gaped. "No way!"

Kiyone's face paled. "Seriously?"

"Unbelievable!" Ayeka murmured, looking downright awestruck.

"Impressive," said Azaka.

"Quite so," chirped Kamidake.

"It's amazing!" cried Sasami, her expression one of innocent glee.

"Why didn't you tell us sooner, Washu?" asked Mihoshi.

"I've been saying that from the get-go!" Washu snapped.

Ryoko grinned. "Say, I've got an idea. Washu, you don't suppose that I could borrow this thing for a little bit, do you?"

"Now wait just a minute!" barked Ayeka, pushing Ryoko aside, "Miss Washu, could you please lend that device to me? As Jurai's crown princess I solemnly swear it shall be put to good use!"

"Hey!" yelled Ryoko as she grabbed Ayeka from behind, "I asked her first! I've got dibs, you hear me?"

Ayeka squirmed in her grip. "Absolutely not! You have no right to such a device, you loathsome thief!"

"Oh, yeah?" Ryoko shot back, "Well neither do you, you royal brat!"

Washu started clearing her throat, looking increasingly agitated as their bickering went on. She scowled at the two women, and Heero feared what might come next. Ryoko and Ayeka, however, were completely oblivious to that potential threat.

"It is my right to use that device first!" cried Ayeka.

"Like hell it is!" Ryoko snarled, "You're just going to use it to hook up with Heero, aren't you? Don't lie to me!"

"I… I would never stoop to such depths!" Ayeka replied indignantly, "I have a sense of honor, which is far more than can be said of you!"

Washu finally snapped. "Shut up, damn it!"

That certainly got their attention. Ryoko and Ayeka jumped back, their faces paling at the thought of facing Washu's wrath. For a moment Heero thought that he would have to step in again, but Washu took a deep breath to calm down before speaking again.

"First of all," she said, "this invention isn't actually finished yet. It's still in the experimental phase, so you can't use it."

"Aw, come on!" pouted Ryoko, "I want to use it now, Washu!"

"I beg of you, let me use it, Miss Washu!" Ayeka pleaded, "It would be a waste to allow the fruit of your genius to remain untested!"

"I just want to see it work!" Ryoko whined.

"No," said Washu firmly.

"What about me?" asked Mihoshi.

"What part of 'it's not ready' don't you get?" Washu barked.

"I just want to try it out," said Ryoko, "I'm a curious girl, after all!"

"I must use it before she does!" cried Ayeka.

"I said no!" Washu yelled.

Kiyone folded her arms. "But you do plan on using it soon, don't you? Why else would you be showing it to us?"

Washu smiled. "Well, of course I plan on using it! That was the whole point of inventing it, after all. However, I think that you're all assuming too much regarding how this thing works, or who I'll let use it other than myself, for that matter!"

"What are you talking about?" asked Sasami.

"For starters," said Washu, "the device works off of more than just manual inputs. I designed it so that it can read the subconscious of whoever is using it, and that influences the world that is created. In fact, you could argue that the subconscious desires of the subject are actually more important than their conscious desires. This way, even if the subject does not know what kind of world they are seeking, the Dimension Turner can still find a way to create one that the user would find ideal. In short, you don't need to have any idea whatsoever as to what would constitute a dream world for you; your subconscious will give the Dimension Turner all the data it needs to create one. All you have to do is place your hand on the touchpad here and the device will take care of the rest!"

Heero couldn't help but think back to his conversation by the tree in the middle of the lake a week ago with Ryoko. Granted, she had asked him what he wanted to be rather than what kind of world he wanted to live in, but the parallels were there all the same. More importantly, he couldn't help but notice that Washu's gaze had landed upon him as she had gone into greater detail in describing the inner workings of the Dimension Turner. Was she trying to tell him something?

A week ago Ryoko nudges me into thinking about what I could be outside of a Preventers operative, he mused, and now Washu creates a device that can construct an ideal world for someone even if they have no idea what kind of world they're actually looking for? This is either one hell of a freak coincidence, or something's up here…

"Secondly," said Washu, her eyes narrowing, "you've all got a lot of nerve in assuming that I'm just going to let any of you use this baby! I know how you people think, and I can name at least a few of you who shouldn't be allowed to create their own world!"

"What's that supposed to mean?" asked Ayeka.

"Hey!" Ryoko snapped, "You'd better not be referring to me!"

"I'm with Washu on this one," said Kiyone, "This isn't a device that just anyone should be allowed to use."

Washu smirked. "Very wise, Detective. Of course, you're one of those people that I don't want using it, either."

Kiyone's eyes widened in outrage. "What? Why? If anything, I think I'd be one of the safest people for you to test your machine on!"

Washu shook her head. "Please. A cop like you? Don't make me laugh. Not only would you probably make some super-strict 'law and order' state, but it would be boring as hell. My machine would be wasted on the likes of you."

Kiyone folded her arms. "For your information, that's not the kind of world I'd create!"

Washu smirked. "Oh, really? Now I'm a little curious… still not enough to let you use it, though."

"What about me?" asked Mihoshi.

Washu shook her head. "Not a chance. I don't know what someone like you would do with this machine, but with everything I've seen from you so far I doubt it would be anything good."

"Then who are you considering as candidates for using this device?" asked Heero, "You must have someone in mind besides yourself."

Washu smiled at him, and there was a light in her eyes that Heero did not like one bit. "Oh, I most certainly do, Heero. You'll find out who that is in due time."

"When will it be ready?" asked Sasami.

Washu's brow furrowed in thought. "Let's see… just a few days from now, I'd say. I've just got some diagnostics to run and a little bit of fine tuning to take care of; all the hard stuff's already taken care of. I'll let you know when it's time for initial testing."

"When that time comes," said Heero, his eyes narrowing, "will there be any effects on this world when you use the Dimension Turner?"

Washu shook her head. "Nope. This device only works on those who use it directly and those within their immediate surroundings. By using it in a contained environment such as my lab the outside world will be at no risk of ill effect."

Heero sighed with relief. "That's good to hear."

Kiyone nodded. "I'll say. If the effects really will be confined to that extent then I guess it's nothing that I need to report to my superiors. This is actually pretty tame compared to what I was first expecting when we came in here."

Washu glared at Kiyone. "Hey, my inventions are never tame!"

"I'm sorry!" Kiyone quickly replied, "I-I didn't mean it as an insult!"

Washu shook her head. "Fine, I'll let it slide this time. Don't let it happen again."

"Can you tell us anything else about this device?" asked Ayeka.

"Only that it's got a very bright future ahead of it," said Washu with a smirk, "Now, if you all don't mind, I've got work to do here. It's hard to focus with an audience."

Heero nodded. "We'll let you get back to it. We just wanted to check up on you. Try not to coop yourself up in here for so long in the future, all right?"

Washu smiled. "Aw, were you actually worried about me, handsome? If you keep acting like such a sweetheart your odds of using this baby first might just improve!"

"Aw, no fair!" pouted Mihoshi.

"How can you pick him over your own daughter?" whined Ryoko.

"Because you only admit to being my daughter when it's convenient for you, like right now," Washu shot back, "Now, beat it."

"Come on, everyone," said Heero as he started heading for the exit, "We're done here."

Ayeka nodded. "Indeed. Sasami! Let's go; you've been back here quite long enough, I think."

Sasami smiled. "Okay. See you later, Washu!"

"Later, kid," the redhead replied as she turned back to one of her monitors.

"Well," said Kiyone as the group made their way out of the lab, "I didn't see that one coming."

"No kidding," said Ryoko, "A machine that can create a perfect world for someone? We should've gone back there sooner!"

Mihoshi smiled. "I'll say! I can't wait to try it out!"

Kiyone groaned. "Mihoshi, weren't you paying attention to Washu? I don't think she's going to let you use it. Same goes for me, too… damn it."

Ayeka huffed as they came out of the lab and went to the living room. "Well, I think that's hardly her call to make! Sir Heero, what are your thoughts on this situation?"

Heero raised an eyebrow as he sat down on the couch. "My thoughts?"

Ayeka nodded. "Yes, of course. We are all staying here under your supervision, after all. If anyone's input matters here, it's most certainly yours!"

Ryoko sat down next to him and put her arm around him. "She's right, Heero! Come on, there's no need to hide it; you want to try that machine out just as badly as I do!"

Heero shook his head. "You're mistaken; I have no interest in trying out that device."

Ryoko smiled as she pressed herself up against him. "Come on, Heero; you don't have to lie to me! I saw the way you were looking at that machine. Look, just admit that you want to give it a shot. It's perfectly natural!"

"I don't know what you're talking about," said Heero, a little more forcefully than he'd intended.

Ryoko chuckled. "Sure you do, Heero. Don't you remember what we talked about a week ago? This is your big chance! With Washu's machine you could live your dream life!"

Heero gently pushed her off of him. "I'm not interested."

"Sir Heero," said Ayeka, "Please forgive my presumption, but I do not believe that you are being entirely honest with yourself. There is no shame in admitting an interest in trying out a device such as what Miss Washu has created. Surely you must have some desire to experience a new world of your own creation."

"I know I do!" chirped Mihoshi.

Kiyone sighed. "I guess I'd be lying if I said I didn't feel the same way. It would be… interesting."

"I would be so much fun!" said Sasami as she grinned at Heero, "I bet you just don't know what kind of world you'd make, right, Heero?"

"Meow!" cried Ryo-Ohki from her perch on Sasami's shoulder.

"That problem is one Miss Washu said her machine can work around," said Ayeka, "It could read a user's subconscious, I believe. That would certainly come in handy if one cannot make up their mind as to what sort of world they wish to build."

"What sort of world would you create, Princess Ayeka?" asked Azaka.

"Surely it would be a just and noble one!" chimed Kamidake.

Ayeka smiled. "Oh, indeed it would! I can see it now; a fair and orderly society, with myself in the social elite. With Sir Heero by my side, it would truly be a perfect world!"

Ryoko pointed at her. "Hah, I knew it! You do want to use that machine to take Heero for yourself, you sneaky little skank!"

Ayeka blushed. "Oh, dear… did I really say that aloud?"

Ryoko grinned. "Yup ! Caught you red-handed, you stuck-up brat!"

Ayeka scowled. "Well… you're no better! The only reason you want to use that device is so you can claim Sir Heero, you foul tramp!"

"Well, why wouldn't I?" said Ryoko as she grabbed Heero's arm and pulled him towards her, "After all, I bet Heero would like the world I'd make much more than yours!"

Ayeka seized Heero's other arm. "As if! Sir Heero, let me assure you that the world I would create would be much more suited to one such as yourself than any hellhole that fiend could come up with!"

"No!" yelled Ryoko, "Mine will be the one that he'll enjoy!"

"Absolutely not!" Ayeka shot back as she pulled Heero towards her, "The world that he shall find satisfaction in will be mine!"

"Enough!" said Heero firmly as he freed himself from the two of them, "It's a moot point, because none of us will be using that machine anytime soon."

"Aw, but Heero…" pouted Ryoko.

"Sir Heero!" Ayeka protested, "My only desire…"

"It doesn't matter," said Heero, "Until Washu says that the Dimension Turner is ready for use, none of us will be so much as touching it. Is that clear?"

Ayeka sighed, but it was impossible to miss the spark of determination in her gaze. "Very well, Sir Heero."

Ryoko smirked, and Heero did not like the look in her eyes. "Whatever you say, Heero."

Clearly neither woman had really given up, and Heero imagined that the same went for the rest of the girls. They were a diverse bunch, but Heero knew that one thing they had in common was that when they set their sights on something, they were determined to seize it. The object of their desires now was Washu's Dimension Turner, and Heero could not help but fear what might come next.

I hope Washu's got some security measures in place for that thing, he thought as he stood up, otherwise we're going to have trouble…

"Where are you going?" asked Sasami.

"Outside," he replied as he headed for the door, "I need a little air."

"Want some company?" asked Mihoshi.

Heero shook his head. "Not this time, sorry."

He was out the front door before any of the others could volunteer to come with him. Without a real destination involved, he started wandering towards the lake. What he really wanted was some time away from his newly energized houseguests so he could gather his thoughts, and thanks to Washu's latest invention there was plenty on his mind.

What had prompted her to create a device like the Dimension Turner? He was used to her building odd inventions, but he'd never seen one quite like this. Based on what she'd told him and the others it seemed harmless enough, but knowing Washu there was always the chance that she had left something out. What she planned to do with it was up in the air, but Heero had a more immediate problem to consider; the rest of his guests.

Ryoko, Ayeka and the others were all clearly chomping at the bit for a chance to use the Dimension Turner. It was easy to understand why; the possibility to create a world that was perfect for someone was certainly tempting, and even Heero couldn't deny that the device had a certain appeal to him. He'd particularly liked how Washu had designed it so that it could be used even if the person who wanted to create a world didn't necessarily know what kind of world they wished to build. In fact, that design feature seemed just a bit too convenient, and once again he found himself wondering if Washu had built the machine with him in mind.

Does she plan on using me as a test subject?, he thought, Any other invention and I'd probably say no, but this one…

If Washu was looking to draw him into something, she had laid out some rather enticing bait. Still, just because the temptation was there didn't mean that Heero was about to succumb to it. His mission was to keep an eye on all of his houseguests, not become Washu's lab rat. Whatever possibilities and diversions that the Dimension Turner might offer, he could not afford to get distracted by them.

"Even if it's a fake world," he muttered as he walked around the lake, "that kind of power isn't something to be used lightly. It's not worth the potential trouble… I shouldn't get involved with this."

Still, he could not deny that a part of him actually did want to get involved. The forbidden fruit was before him now, and so was the accompanying question; would he take a bite at the apple?

Heero didn't have an answer.

….

"Good night, Ryoko!" chirped Mihoshi.

Ryoko nodded as she went into her room. "Good night, Mihoshi."

The rest of the household was likewise calling it a night, but Ryoko didn't have any intention of going to sleep anytime soon. She smiled mischievously as she shut her door, glancing over at the clock as she laid down on her bedroll.

So far, so good, she thought, I just have to wait a little bit longer…

If the others had thought earlier that she had given up on trying out the Dimension Turner, they had another thing coming. Her plan was simple, as her schemes usually were; she would wait until the others had fallen asleep, and then she would sneak into Washu's lab and try out the device.

She tapped her foot as she stared at the clock; patience had never been her strong point. Ryoko was a very impulsive woman, but when the occasion called for it she could force herself to wait for the right time to make her move. Of course, this was one of those circumstances where she was finding it rather hard to keep to her original plan.

This is my big chance, she thought, barely able to contain her excitement, I can make a world just for me and Heero! Oh, I can see it now; it'll be us against the world! I can't wait!

There was only one problem with her plan; Washu had said that the effects of the Dimension Turner would be confined to a limited area, especially if it remained in her lab. She wanted Heero to experience the world she planned on building with her, so she would have to find some way to convince him to come down to the lab with her. Then again, 'convince' might've been the wrong way to put it; she could always just grab him and drag him down there like she had during the incident with Washu's cave. In fact, that would probably be quicker than trying to talk him into going along with her. If nothing else, she could always ask for his forgiveness after she'd made her world.

Actually, she mused, he might even thank me for it after he sees the world I make for the two of us. Well, even if he doesn't, I'm sure he won't hold it against me. He's gone pretty easy on me in the past, after all. I doubt he'll mind if I drag him along for another adventure. Besides, he needs to loosen up a little more, and this is just the way to do it!

She scowled at the clock; the minutes were going by all too slowly. The temptation to throw caution to the wind was growing greater by the second, and Ryoko wasn't sure how much longer she could last.

"Damn it," she grumbled, "I should've seen if Washu had a time machine while I was down there. I could've stolen that and skipped the waiting."

A few more minutes went by before her patience gave out. Looking up at the ceiling, Ryoko grinned before she started floating up towards it.

Ready or not, Heero, she thought, Here I come!

A second later she had phased through the ceiling and was standing in Heero's bathroom. She opened the door and came out into his bedroom, only to find that he wasn't there.

She raised an eyebrow as she scanned the room. "Huh, that's weird. Could've sworn he'd be in bed by now. Heero? Are you hiding from me?"

Looking under the bed and in the closet, she found no sign of him. Her brow furrowed in thought; where the hell could he be?

Then her eyes widened, and a smile broke out on her face. "No way… well, well, well! You're much more devious than I thought you were, Heero!"

You're already down in the lab, aren't you?

….

She left it unlocked, thought Heero as he opened the door to Washu's lab, Was that an oversight… or an invitation?

Either way, he supposed that it didn't matter. He was here, and he was going in. He had to, or who knew what would happen if one of the girls beat him here?

Heero knew what the others would assume if they found him down in Washu's lab at this hour; that he was trying to use the Dimension Turner. Nothing could be further from the truth; he had come down here to stand guard in case one of the others tried to use the device.

At least, that's what he kept telling himself.

It was only sensible to check up on the device and make sure it was secure. After all, his houseguests seemed more than eager to make use of the Dimension Turner even though Washu had said that it wasn't ready yet. Keeping tabs on the machine and whatever security measures Washu had set up for it was the logical thing to do, especially on the first night after its unveiling. The excitement in the household would likely die down by morning, but for now Heero was prepared to lose a night's worth of sleep if it meant keeping Ryoko and the others from messing with a machine that Washu had made clear should not be tampered with.

Is this really about them?, he thought as he walked through the lab, Or is it about you?

It was hard to say for sure. He genuinely was concerned about how the others might use the Dimension Turner, but how he might use it weighed heavily on his mind as well. It offered a chance to sample what kind of life he might live outside of his role as a Preventers operative, a prospect that was incredibly tempting. Heero did not want to see the Dimension Turner used for something selfish or trivial, but who was he to say that his own desires didn't meet either of those categories? Certainty eluded him; his heart and mind were more conflicted now than they had been in quite some time.

"Washu?" he called as he strode towards the rear of the lab where the Dimension Turner was kept, "Are you back there?"

There was no response; she must've turned in for the night. It seemed a little bit early for her, but what did Heero know? She'd been back here for a week straight working on her new toy; perhaps she'd gone without sleep that whole time and was catching up on some much needed shuteye.

He kept his eyes peeled for any traps that Washu might've set, but as he continued through the lab he found no trace of any such security measures. Had she really left the Dimension Turner completely unguarded?

Did she simply forget to take precautions, he thought, or did she want to leave it open like this?

It was damn near impossible to read Washu's motives at times. As much as she played the part of the playful and mischievous mad scientist, Heero was sure that there was much more to her than what she let others think. She was the one that had created Ryoko, after all, and Heero doubted she had done so simply on a whim. The same went for the Dimension Turner; there was method to the madness, but Heero didn't know where to start when it came to pinning down her motivations.

A couple minutes later he could see the Dimension Turner. There was no one with it, and as he approached he couldn't spot any trace of what might be a final line of defense. The device was unprotected, but at least it appeared that no one had tampered with it yet.

Heero sighed. "Small favors. So… now what?"

"I think that's obvious," said a familiar voice as a pair of arms grabbed him from behind and a very familiar bosom pressed up against his back, "What are you waiting for, Heero? Use it!"

Heero shook his head as he freed himself from Ryoko's grip before turning around to face her. "You've got the wrong idea. That's not why I'm here."

Ryoko gave him a knowing smirk. "Oh, really? Let's see; it's the middle of the night, and here you are, all alone with the Dimension Turner. Why else would you be down here, Heero?"

"For your information," said Heero firmly, "I came down here because I suspected that you or one of the others would try to use the Dimension Turner tonight. Washu said that it's not ready, so I'm here to make sure that none of you mess with it."

Ryoko smiled as she put her arm around him. "Come on, Heero; you don't need to lie to me! Just admit that you're down here for the same reason that I am. Once you do that, then we can have some fun!"

"You're imagining things," said Heero, a little more forcefully than he'd intended.

Ryoko shook her head and grabbed his arm, pulling him towards the Dimension Turner. "Oh, I don't think so, handsome! Come on; let's take this thing for a ride!"

"That's enough, Ryoko," said Heero as he struggled against her surprisingly strong grip, "Stop this before it's too late!"

Ryoko chuckled. "What's the matter, Heero? Afraid that you might actually enjoy this?"

"That's not it," he replied, "The power of this machine isn't something that we should just be playing around with so casually."

Ryoko rolled her eyes. "Oh, please! You know damn well that Washu plans on messing around with this thing until she grows bored with it. I say she should share, and since she doesn't want to do that, we'll just have to take things into our own hands!"

"This is not a good idea," said Heero as she shoved him forward.

Ryoko grinned. "Sure it is! Trust me, Heero; you'll thank me later!"

Before he knew it, the two of them were standing right in front of the Dimension Turner's control panel. Ryoko leaned forward to study it, releasing Heero in the process. It was his ideal chance to try to restrain her, but for some reason he couldn't name Heero wasn't as committed to fighting her now as he had been earlier. Instead he simply stood next to her as she examined the device and wondered what would happen next.

Am I seriously considering going along with her?, he thought, What the hell is wrong with me?

"Hey," said Ryoko, snapping him out of his thoughts, "Any idea how we're supposed to start this thing up?"

Heero leaned forward with her, trying to figure out how one was supposed to initiate the device. The sphere inside the tube seemed to have its sensor trained on them, and Heero wondered if it was already gathering data on them. Testing his theory, he took a step to the right. The sphere slightly adjusted itself to track his movement.

"I think it's already on," he said as he moved back to the left.

Ryoko smirked; the fact that he was no longer actively fighting her had definitely emboldened her. "Really? All right, then! So… what comes next?"

"Hold it right there, Ryoko!" yelled a certain Juraian royal.

I was wondering when she would show up, Heero mused as he and Ryoko turned around to see Ayeka rushing towards them, Looks like my job just got a lot harder…

"Ayeka," said Heero, "I can explain…"

Ayeka shook her head. "You don't need to explain yourself to me, Sir Heero; I know why you're down here!"

Heero couldn't help but raise an eyebrow. "You do?"

Ayeka nodded. "Of course! You're here to stop this fiend Ryoko from misusing this amazing device, and I'm here to lend my support! From the looks of things, my timing is perfect. You've been caught red-handed, Ryoko!"

Ryoko folded her arms. "Cut the crap, Ayeka. You snuck down here to use the Dimension Turner, just like I did. Heero did the exact same thing; he just happened to get here first, that's all."

Ayeka shook her head. "That's absurd! Sir Heero is down here doing his duty as our guardian, and I intend to help him with that!"

Heero didn't have the heart to tell her that she wasn't entirely correct. He may have come down here with the intention of stopping Ryoko or any of the others from using the Dimension Turner, but now that he was here it was much harder to say what he was actually hoping to accomplish. Also, despite her protests to the contrary, Heero couldn't help but suspect that Ayeka wasn't being entirely truthful as to why she had come down to Washu's lab in the middle of the night.

Ryoko smirked. "If that's so, then why can't you take your eyes off of Washu's toy, you royal brat?"

It was true; Ayeka had been staring at the Dimension Turner since her arrival. She quickly blushed and looked away, but there was no denying where her gaze had been, and she continued to sneak peeks at the device even as she continued to argue with Ryoko.

"Th-that's because I want to make sure that you haven't tampered with it!" she shot back.

Ryoko rolled her eyes. "Right. Why don't you quit lying, Ayeka? At least I'm honest about why I'm down here!"

"I have no idea what you're talking about!" Ayeka huffed, "And I refuse to stand by and let the likes of you call me a liar! I have absolutely no intention of using this device for my own ends!"

"Why do I have a hard time believing that?" said another female voice, and Heero and the others saw that Kiyone was rapidly approaching.

It wasn't just her; Mihoshi was with her as well. The two Galaxy Police officers rushed forward, and Heero couldn't help but notice that, like Ayeka before them, they seemed more concerned with the Dimension Turner itself than the people in front of it.

"What are you two doing down here?" asked Heero.

"I could ask you the same question," said Kiyone, her eyes narrowing, "I expected Ryoko and Ayeka to be down here, but not you. I thought you were better than this, Heero."

"You've got the wrong idea," Heero replied, "I'm…"

"It's okay, Heero!" said Mihoshi with a smile, "You don't need to be embarrassed. After all, we're here to use the Dimension Turner too!"

Kiyone frantically shook her head. "No, no we're not! We're here to make sure that no one uses it! Isn't that right, Mihoshi?"

"It is?" asked Mihoshi, "I thought we were going to use it!"

"Get in line, you two!" barked Ryoko, "Heero and I were here first!"

"That does not give you the right to use this device first, Ryoko!" yelled Ayeka, "I shall be the one to use it first!"

"Over my dead body!" Ryoko snarled.

"Aw, look!" cried yet another familiar voice, "Everyone's already here!"

Ayeka's face paled. "Sasami? What are you doing down here? You should be in bed at this hour!"

Sasami wasn't alone; Heero could see Azaka and Kamidake floating behind her, while Ryo-Ohki was held in her arms. All four were quickly approaching, threatening to send an already out of control situation well past the point of no return.

"We saw you head downstairs, Princess Ayeka," said Azaka.

"We felt that Sasami should join you, since you were going to use the Dimension Turner," chimed in Kamidake.

Ayeka shook her head. "You had no right to inform Sasami of that! Azaka, Kamidake, how could you betray me like that?"

"With all due respect, your Highness," said Azaka, "You never told us that Sasami was to be left in the dark as to your intentions."

"We were well within our rights to inform her of what was going on," chirped Kamidake, "After all, we are as much her guardians as we are yours."

Ayeka sighed. "I suppose that is true. Still, this is not a matter that Sasami should be involved in!"

"Why not, Ayeka?" asked Sasami, "I think it would be fun to make a dream world!"

"Meow!" cried Ryo-Ohki in agreement.

"I can understand that," said Ayeka, "but Sasami… this kind of power is something that should be wielded with great care. I do not know if you truly appreciate the gravity of what a device like the Dimension Turner is capable of."

Ryoko rolled her eyes. "You are so full of crap. You just don't want any competition for using this thing!"

"The only competition I could do without is from you!" Ayeka shot back, "You lack the temperament and sense of responsibility that is required for such a device!"

"Oh, like you're any better!" Ryoko countered, "You're a stuck-up rich brat who thinks she's entitled to anything she wants!"

"There's no need to fight, you two!" cried Mihoshi, "All of us can use the machine!"

Kiyone gaped at her partner. "Mihoshi, whose side are you on? No one should be using that machine! Well, not before we get a chance to test it, anyway. We need to make sure it's safe, so I volunteer myself to be a guinea pig."

"No fair!" pouted Mihoshi, "You just want to use it before I do, Kiyone!"

I am way out of my league here, mused Heero as he watched the girls continue to go at it, I doubt I could stop them even if I wanted to at this point. Maybe I should just go get Washu…

He was about to slip off towards her quarters when Ryoko grabbed him by the arm. "Heero, what do you think? I should get to use it first, right? Come on, tell me you've got my back here!"

"Look, Ryoko…" he began.

She cut him off before he could finish. "Oh, I see how it is. You'll let me have my turn, but only after you use it first, right? I guess that's fair; you did get down here before the rest of us, after all."

"That's not what I was going to say," he replied.

Ryoko grinned. "You don't need to play coy, Heero. I'll tell you what; I'll let you use it first if I get the next shot after you. What do you say?"

Heero shook his head. "That's a bad idea."

Ayeka nodded as she rushed forward and grabbed Heero's other arm. "I wholeheartedly agree, Sir Heero! That is why I believe that I should use this device once you are done with it. Surely that would be just!"

"You're completely missing the point," groaned Heero.

He was clearly fighting a losing battle, but he had no idea how to turn the situation around at this point. He was surrounded, and even if he were somehow able to break out and grab Washu for help, by the time they got back who could say what kind of havoc the others would've already wrought with the Dimension Turner? The two women grabbing him were certainly determined to use the machine tonight, and he doubted that the rest of the group was lacking for enthusiasm in that department either.

"Heero," said Kiyone, "You know that it's not right for either of them to use that machine!"

Mihoshi smiled. "Yeah! Let us use it, Heero!"

"Heero!" cried Sasami, "What about me? I want a chance to use it!"

"Meow!" cried Ryo-Ohki.

"That's not my call to make," Heero protested, "It's Washu's. It's her device; she understands it better than any of us do."

"That's a bunch of bull," said Ryoko, "To hell with what she wants! This thing's right here for the taking, and we're going to use it! Come on, Heero!"

Before he could stop her she pulled his arm forward until his hand was right over the panel. Heero tried to resist, but it was no good; despite her feminine figure, the lovely pirate was monstrously strong. She jerked his arm down, and his hand landed right on a touchpad built into the controls. Immediately the device lit up, and the spherical machine in the center of the tank zeroed in on him.

"All right!" yelled Ryoko as she put her hand on the pad next to his, "Now, my turn! One world for Heero and me, coming right up!"

"Hold it right there!" cried Ayeka as she thrust her hand out to join them, "I shall create a world that will be perfect for Sir Heero and I!"

The controls were lighting up like crazy, and Heero could see the spherical sensor shift its gaze rapidly between the three of them. He had a feeling the Dimension Turner wasn't designed to accommodate simultaneous users like this, and he had a bad feeling about what might happen next.

Things weren't made any easier by the others trying to get in on the action. Before Heero knew it Kiyone, Mihoshi, and Sasami had joined the fray, wrestling with the others for control over the device. The Dimension Turner's primary sensor was going absolutely wild, and so was the control panel. Whatever had been set in motion now, Heero doubted that it would be easily stopped.

"A perfect world for me!" cried Mihoshi, "I can't wait to see it!"

"A world free of Mihoshi!" said Kiyone, "I'll finally be liberated from this curse!"

"A beautiful world where everyone can be friends!" Sasami chirped.

"Hey!" yelled the machine's creator, "What the hell are you people doing? Get away from there!"

Like a red-headed cannonball, Washu shot through the crowd to get to the controls of the Dimension Turner. Her eyes widened in panic, something that Heero had never seen from her before and definitely did not bode well for whatever was happening now.

"Damn it," she muttered as she studied the controls, "I was afraid of this… not good!"

"What's going on?" asked Heero, his gaze torn between Washu and the kaleidoscope of colors that were emanating from the Dimension Turner.

"Too much input," said Washu frantically, "It read the subconscious of all of you, and it's struggling to process all the data! It's trying to compensate, but I didn't design it to analyze so many personalities at once. It was supposed to be one person at a time, damn it!"

"So, did we break it?" asked Ryoko.

"You came pretty damn close!" Washu snapped as she tried to work the controls, "Crap, I can't stop it!"

"What's it doing?" asked Sasami.

"Will it make a world?" chimed in Mihoshi.

"Far more importantly, in my humble opinion," said Ayeka, "is whether or not this contraption is about to kill us all!"

"You should've thought of that before you tried to use it," said Kiyone.

Ayeka glared at her. "You used it as well, so you're in no position to judge me!"

Washu sighed. "Well, I've got good news and bad news. What order do you want it in?"

"The good news, please," said Heero as he looked nervously at the very trippy lightshow that was emanating from the Dimension Turner, "I could use some right about now."

Washu nodded as she studied the data on the machine's main monitor. "All right. The good news is that it won't kill any of us."

Ryoko sighed with relief. "I'll take that."

"And the bad news?" asked Ayeka with more than a hint of trepidation.

Washu scowled at her and the rest of the group. "The bad news is that this thing's going to make more than one world, and we're going to have to cycle through all of them before we make it back to the real world!"

Heero's eyes widened, a reaction mirrored by his companions. "You're kidding."

Washu put her hands on her hips. "Do I look like I'm in the mood for jokes right now?"

"It's hard to tell with you," Ryoko quipped.

"Hold on a minute!" cried Kiyone, "How many different worlds are we talking about here?"

Washu folded her arms. "That depends. How many of you idiots used this thing? Be honest; I really don't have time for liars right now."

Heero and the others that had messed with the device prior to Washu's arrival raised their hands, and Washu did a count. "Six, huh? Crap, this is worse than I thought!"

"How long will it take for us to get through all the worlds?" asked Mihoshi as the cascade of colors flowing from the Dimension Turner escalated and began to engulf the group.

Washu shrugged. "Can't say. You people pushed this thing way beyond what I designed it for. It could be a few hours apiece, a few days… or a few years."

A few years inside someone's dream world?, thought Heero, his mind struggling to grasp the situation he now found himself in, I'm in for way more than I bargained for here. Well, I guess it's too late to run away now…

Ryoko smiled. "Well, that might not be a bad thing. A few years in my dream world is gonna rock!"

"Oh, spare me the thought!" blanched Ayeka, "Although... I suppose an extended period of time in my dream world would be all right."

"Screw you, hypocrite!" Ryoko snapped.

"Shut up!" yelled Washu, gazing intently at the control panel again as the light flowed around them, "I'm trying to focus here!"

Heero didn't see how she could focus at this point; the light emanating from the Dimension Turner was damn near blinding now, and it had almost completely engulfed the group. The sensor of the sphere inside the tank was spinning rapidly, and the light's intensity was growing with each rotation. Heero was no expert on the Dimension Turner, but he had a feeling that he and the others would see their first 'dream world' pretty damn soon if this kept up.

He didn't know whether he should feel nervous or excited.

Sasami clearly felt the latter; even as Heero shielded her eyes he could tell that the younger Juraian princess was practically beaming. "Oh, I can't wait to see my world! I hope it turns out just like I'm imagining it right now!"

"A perfect world for Sasami sounds like it would be a most charming place," said Azaka.

"A land of peace and harmony, without a doubt," chimed in Kamidake, "One as innocent and pure as the Princess herself."

"Meow!" cried Ryo-Ohki.

"That sounds lovely, Sasami!" chirped Mihoshi, "I hope mine's like that too!"

"That sounds totally asinine," Ryoko deadpanned, "I'll pass on that kind of world. Give me some action and lawbreaking, baby!"

Kiyone rolled her eyes. "You would want a world like that. I don't care if we go to that dream world of yours, I'll still arrest your ass."

Ryoko laughed. "Hah! Bring it on! You'll have to arrest me and Heero; can't be an outlaw couple without my handsome rogue of a sidekick now, can't I?"

Even through the glare from the Dimension Turner Heero could see Ayeka's face turn beet red. "Outlaw couple? You foul temptress! I shall move Heaven and Earth to stop you in your dream world, mark my words!"

"Washu," said Heero, "Which world will we end up in first?"

"No idea," she replied, "but I think we're about to find out! Brace yourselves!"

At that point the light from the Dimension Turner reached its zenith, completely overwhelming Heero's sight. There was a distinct rushing sound, and he could've sworn he felt himself floating up off of the floor. His body began to spin almost as rapidly as the Dimension Turner had been early, and he passed out a few moments later.

….

Azaka: And so, our merry band has begun their journey to their first dream world.

Kamidake: Where, oh where, shall they end up first, I wonder?

Azaka: With so many worlds to chose from, their destination now lies in the hands of fate.

Kamidake: Their time and space adventures have only just begun!

Azaka: And now, without further adieu, let us join our cast in Dream World Number One!

Kamidake: We hope you enjoy the show!

….

The hot summer sun beat down on the capital. Street vendors hawked their wares, the smells of sushi, noodles, and grilled meat wafted from the various stands, and artisans and craftsmen beckoned customers to come into their myriad shops. The city watch and samurai from the Imperial Palace Guard kept a watchful eye on the streets, their katanas, staves, and naginatas an imposing sight for any would-be trouble makers. At the heart of the city, raised up on a large mound surrounded by a moat, were the pagodas of the Imperial Palace. Walled off from the rest of the urban sprawl, it was practically a world unto itself, and it was within its beautiful courtyard that Crown Princess Ayeka Masaki Jurai was spending her afternoon. A blanket had been laid out next to one of several ponds that dotted the courtyard, and she was currently sharing it with her younger sister and two of her handmaidens.

"More tea, your highness?" asked one of her handmaidens.

Ayeka smiled as she accepted the offered cup. "Yes, thank you very much!"

"It's such a lovely day," said her second handmaiden with a smile, "Truly, this is the height of summer's beauty!"

The first handmaiden nodded. "Indeed. It's a pity that Lord Yuy is unable to join us at this hour."

Ayeka sighed. "Quite so. I do wish that my father would not work him so hard. He's always performed his duties in the past with the utmost devotion and grace! Is it really too much to ask that he be allowed a little more time to spend with me, his fiancé?"

"What's father got Heero working on this time?" asked Sasami.

"That's Lord Yuy, your Highness," the first handmaiden gently corrected.

Ayeka shook her head. "It's all right. Lord Yuy's treated Sasami with great kindness and understanding; I believe she's as much a younger sister to him at this point as she is to me. A little informality on her part is harmless."

The first handmaiden bowed. "Very well, Princess Ayeka."

"I must profess to some curiosity myself," said the second handmaiden, "What could possibly be so important that your father would keep Lord Yuy as preoccupied as he has been over these past few weeks? Your wedding is merely weeks away now; surely it would be more appropriate for him to be granted a period of leave so he can spend more time with you."

Ayeka smiled wistfully. "Oh, how I wish that were the case. Alas, I'm afraid that Lord Yuy's duties as a commander in the Capital Special Guard Force leave him with precious little time for personal matters these days. Father is determined to stamp out the bandits based in the southeastern quarter, and there's also that matter of the demon that's been plaguing the local shrines recently. As Lord Yuy is amongst the most capable warriors in the Capital, my father has entrusted him with the task of addressing both of those security matters."

"Will he be all right?" asked the first handmaiden, "I've heard all sorts of nasty rumors about the southeastern bandits!"

"Not to mention the demon," the second handmaiden added, "If the gossip is true, then she's even worse than the bandits."

Ayeka could not help but shudder. She shared her servants' concerns and feared that her father was asking far too much of her groom-to-be. If anything were to happen to Heero so close to their wedding then Ayeka could not imagine how she could possibly go on with her life. No other man in the capital, no, the entire Empire, could measure up to a lord of his bearing.

"It'll be okay," said her younger sister with a smile, "Heero's strong, you know that, Ayeka! He'll be just fine!"

Ayeka nodded, encouraged by Sasami's words. "Yes… you're quite right. Whether they're bandits or a demon, no adversary can hope to stand before the might of my fiancé!"

The first handmaiden smiled and bowed. "May his victory be swift and decisive."

"And may he return to you safely," said the second handmaiden, "so that the two of you may be married before the eyes of the entire Empire."

Sasami grinned. "I can't wait for the wedding! It's going to be so much fun!"

Ayeka smiled as she pictured the ceremony playing out in her mind. "Oh, yes… such a wonderful affair it will be."

Her reverie was interrupted by a rustling sound coming from some nearby bushes. A few seconds later the source of it flew out into the open and ran towards her younger sister. It was the strange yet adorable creature that had somehow snuck in and made the palace courtyard its home just a few months ago, and it hopped right into Sasami's lap.

"Ryo-Ohki!" the younger princess cried out in joy, "So that's where you were hiding! Are you hungry?"

The cute furball nodded. "Meow!"

Ayeka sighed and shook her head. "I swear, when is she not hungry?"

"Don't be like that, Ayeka," said Sasami as she pulled a carrot out of her kimono and handed it to the creature, "Ryo-Ohki's a growing girl! She needs to eat healthy."

"I'm not sure that a diet consisting primarily of carrots is enough to be considered healthy," mused the first handmaiden aloud.

"She could have worse eating habits," said the second handmaiden, "Like Princess Sasami's sweet tooth, for instance."

"Hey, I don't eat that many sweets!" Sasami retorted.

Ayeka couldn't help but laugh. "I'm sorry, Sasami, but I think that mother and father would disagree with you on that count. As do I, for that matter. You really must be more careful about what you eat."

"Well, Heero doesn't have a problem with it," Sasami shot back, "He always brings me sweets when he visits!"

Ayeka sighed. "Indeed. I'll have to talk about that with him later. Lord Yuy's a most compassionate gentleman, but we really must set some limits on the kinds of presents he bestows upon you. Otherwise I fear you'll continue to take advantage of his generosity."

Sasami pouted. "That's not fair, Ayeka! He brings you gifts all the time!"

"That's different, Princess Sasami," said the first handmaiden, "He is her future husband, after all!"

"There are certain expectations of him," the second handmaiden added, "and he's always been so thoughtful with your gifts, Princess Ayeka. Forgive me, but I can't help but feel a little jealous. Oh, where can I find a man who would treat me like he does you?"

Ayeka smiled. "Well, I'm afraid Lord Yuy is one of a kind. Fear not, though; I'm sure we can find you a suitable young man to wed. Perhaps one will be in attendance at the ceremony. I certainly will not hold you two to your vows of service during the celebration; feel free to enjoy the festivities, and if you happen to find someone there then so much the better."

The second handmaiden bowed. "You are too kind, Princess Ayeka."

"We'll be sure to make the most of the opportunity," said the first.

Ayeka was about to reply when she caught a glimpse of no less than her groom-to-be entering the courtyard. "Lord Yuy!"

"Heero!" cried Sasami.

Out of the corner of her eye she saw her handmaidens blush, and she could hardly blame them. Heero was wearing a very fine blue and white kimono, with a white dragon emblem embroidered upon it. At his hip was a daishō, and Ayeka had witnessed firsthand his expertise with both blades, large and small. She was well aware of the reputation he'd gained within the Empire for his prowess in Kenjutsu, and it was a very well earned reputation indeed. He was amongst the finest swordsmen in the capital, and those abilities had played a considerable role in his advancement through the ranks.

Ayeka practically tripped over herself to greet him. "I beg your pardon, Lord Yuy! Had I known you were coming here I would've been better prepared to receive you!"

Her fiancé shook his head. "Ayeka, how many times must I ask that you dispense with formalities between us?"

Ayeka blushed. "Oh, I'm sorry… Heero."

He gave her a small smile. "That's better. And you needn't worry about being prepared for my visit today. Truth be told, I didn't think I'd make it here at all today, but we caught a lucky break. The bandits that were troubling the southeastern quarter of the city will no longer be a problem."

Ayeka's eyes widened. "You mean… you've already defeated them?"

"My men and I, yes," he replied, "By good fortune one of our shinobi had infiltrated their ranks and learned of the location of their main hideout. I assembled a force, and we took them by surprise. A few managed to flee to the outskirts of the city, but the majority of them are either in custody or deceased."

Ayeka smiled. "That's wonderful news! Congratulations on your victory! Have you told my father about this yet? I'm sure he'll want to hear of this as soon as possible!"

"I spoke with him earlier," said Heero, "He was pleased with the report. I can't ask for more than that."

"Heero!" cried Sasami as she rushed forward, Ayeka's handmaidens in tow, "It's so good to see you again!"

"Meow!" cried Ryo-Ohki from her cradle in Sasami's arms.

Heero gave Ayeka's younger sister a bow. "You as well, Sasami. It's nice to see you and Ryo-Ohki doing well. I'm sorry I haven't been able to stop by these past few days. I brought you a little something to make up for it, though."

Sasami's eyes widened as Heero pulled a small bag from the inside of his robe and passed it to her. "Oh, wow! Is that what I think it is?"

Heero chuckled. "There's only one way to find out. Go ahead and take a look inside."

Sasami did so, and she grinned when she saw its contents. "I knew it! Candy! You're the best, Heero!"

"Where did you find the time to pick up sweets for her?" Ayeka asked as Sasami started munching on her treats.

"I stopped by the market after the raid," Heero replied, giving her a knowing look, "and that wasn't the only thing I picked up. However… I'd prefer some privacy before revealing it to you."

Ayeka smiled again before turning to her handmaidens and Sasami. "Could the three of you please give us some space?"

Both of her handmaidens bowed. "Of course, Princess Ayeka."

"I'll see you later, Heero!" said Sasami as she and the others departed the garden.

When they were gone Ayeka gestured towards the blanket she and the others had been sharing prior to Heero's arrival. "Would you care to join me? I wouldn't mind giving you a chance to rest before you present your gift, and there's some fresh tea as well if you'd like a cup."

Heero nodded. "That'd be nice. Lead on, Ayeka."

She couldn't help but blush as she took him to the spot that she'd been sharing with Sasami and the others. One would think that by now she would be used to Heero simply using her first name rather than her title, but the familiarity that came with that simple gesture never failed to get her heart racing.

Settling down on the blanket, Ayeka poured tea for the two of them. "It's such a relief to see that you're not wounded. With the reputation of those bandits I feared you might not make it through this mission unscathed."

Heero shook his head. "Those bandits were at their deadliest when they had the element of surprise. When we turned it against them they were unable to mount an effective counterattack. They had a few skilled fighters amongst them, but open battle is not their forte. We were able to route them relatively quickly."

"Heavens be praised for that," said Ayeka with a smile as she took a sip of her tea, "I would be absolutely beside myself if you ever got hurt in your service to my father."

"It's a risk that comes with the job," Heero replied as he partook in his beverage along with her, "and it will continue even after we wed. You must accept that, Ayeka."

Ayeka sighed. "I realize that, but still… at least promise me that you'll be careful, all right?"

Heero nodded. "Of course. The last thing I wish to do is cause you grief."

He then reached inside his kimono. "It's not much, but please consider this a token of my devotion to you."

Ayeka gasped as he passed her a crimson sash. It had a lovely pattern of white birds embroidered on it, and the fabric was absolutely divine.

"Heero…" she said softly, "this is beautiful! Where in the world did you find this?"

"It's custom made, actually," Heero replied with a small smile, "I had a special order placed at a fabric shop down in the market district several days ago. Their prices are steep, but for quality work like this I was more than willing to pay up."

Ayeka couldn't help but grin as she wrapped it around her waist. "It's wonderful, Heero. I'll treasure it for the rest of my days."

"As long as it makes you happy," he said, "I can't ask for more than that."

Ayeka reached over and placed her hand on his. "How long are you able to stay with me today? With the bandits defeated so swiftly, surely your schedule has opened up some, has it not?"

Heero shook his head. "I'm afraid I don't have as much free time today as I would like. Taking care of the southeastern bandits earned me your father's praise, but he's still insistent on having this business with the demon wrapped up as quickly as possible."

"I'll talk to him," said Ayeka, "Surely there is another commander that he can entrust with handling this fiend that's been defacing the capital's shrines! You deserve time to rest after all your hard work!"

"Your father wants me to handle this one personally," Heero replied, "I doubt you'll be able to change his mind, Ayeka."

"But why must it be you that attends to this matter?" Ayeka protested, "The bandits I can understand, but this demon can surely be dealt with by another team of guards."

"The city watch has already tried to apprehend her," said Heero, "and they've been humiliated in their attempts. It's reflecting poorly on the Empire, so your father wants to be sure that this matter is resolved once and for all. That's why he's left this task to me."

Ayeka shook her head emphatically. "I cannot accept this! From what I've heard this demon is not just mischievous but dangerous! You've already put yourself at enough risk on the Empire's behalf. Another Guard Force commander should be assigned to this mission!"

Heero sighed. "I'm sorry, Ayeka, but your father's mind is made up. You know how he can be once he's made a decision."

Ayeka gripped her kimono in frustration. "Only too well. He's very strong willed, but I fear his stubbornness gets the better of him at times. Once his mind is set, the forces of Heaven and Earth together cannot change it. Oh, how I wish it were otherwise…"

Heero took another sip of his tea. "As do I."

"So," she said nervously, "when must you depart?"

"Within the hour, unfortunately," he said grimly.

Ayeka's eyes widened. "So soon? Why? You've only just returned to the palace!"

"Heading out while there's still daylight left will improve my chances of finding the demon," said Heero, "It'll make it easier for me to deploy my troops appropriately. The demon's attacks have been bold, but there's a pattern to them. So far she hasn't hit the same shrine twice, and the capital has significantly more holy sites than other cities. There are still several locations that she's yet to strike, so by deploying my men to observe them we should be able to catch her in the act. Of all the locations that remain untouched by her, the river shrine in the north has the highest profile, and that's the place I'll be observing personally; I think it's the most likely site for her next act of defilement."

Ayeka nodded. "In that case, I'll ask father to dispatch members of his personal guard to accompany you to that site. With those reinforcements I'm sure you'll be able to put this matter to bed before the morning sun rises!"

"I'm sorry," Heero replied, "but I'm afraid I can't accept that help. A greater number of troops than what is already at my command will be difficult to conceal. My mission relies as much upon the element of surprise as it does strength of arms. Too great a force observing the shrines will be picked up by the demon, and that will likely spook her. I need her potential targets to appear vulnerable, so to sell the deception I have to limit the amount of soldiers that take part in the mission."

"But I want to help you!" Ayeka desperately protested, "Heero, I beg of you; you must accept this backup!"

Heero shook his head. "As much as I would like to, Ayeka, I cannot. I really am sorry, but this is the way it has to be."

Ayeka sighed. "If it must, then it must. Still… promise me that you will be careful, all right?"

Heero gave her a small smile. "Of course. Trust me, Ayeka; it'll take a lot more than one demon to bring me down."

There was a calm confidence in his words that worked wonders for Ayeka's nerves. "Indeed. And when your hunt is over, I expect you to return to the palace and report your success to me straight away! If it means keeping my father waiting, so be it; he deserves as much after working you so hard."

Heero smirked. "Normally I wouldn't be one to keep the Emperor waiting, but if it's for you then I think I can make an exception. I imagine he'll let it slide this one time."

Ayeka smiled. "Oh, he most certainly will; I'll have mother see to that!"

Her fiancé chuckled. "Well, if she'll be the one making the case to him, then I'm sure we have nothing to worry about."

There was a moment of silence as the two of them drank their tea. Ayeka wished Heero did not have to leave her again so soon; it was occasions like this that she lived for. Simply having the chance to spend some quality time with him felt like the height of luxury to her, especially since he had such a busy schedule. It was cruel of fate to give them such brief time together, but once they were wed Ayeka vowed that things would be different. After the ceremony Heero would no longer be just a formidable commander in the Capital Special Guard Force; he would be royalty alongside her, and that would grant him much greater leeway with her father than before.

And the first thing I'll have him do with his new position, she thought, is aid me in convincing father to grant the two of us a long honeymoon. I hardly think he'll be in a position to refuse us given all of Heero's service to him over the years, and I can always ask mother to lean on him a bit as well in this matter. Yes, an extended vacation, just the two of us… perhaps we can go to one of the royal seaside villas. Oh, that would be absolutely perfect!

It was a dream that she was determined to make a reality, which was why she was so desperate to find a way to help Heero in his task. Unfortunately he had politely turned down her most direct method of providing assistance, but despite her earlier words the princess was not completely deterred. Her fiancé would have her help whether he wanted it or not, but she did not dare say as much to him.

Finishing his tea, Heero stood up, and Ayeka followed suit. "I don't have much time left. There're only a few more hours of daylight remaining, so I need to get going. I have to assemble my men and give them their assignments before heading to the river shrine."

Ayeka nodded. "I understand. Remember; I expect to be the first to hear of your success. Do not keep me waiting a second longer than necessary."

Heero bowed. "Of course. The sooner this mission is over, the better. I won't make you worry a moment more than I have to."

Ayeka smiled. "I will hold you to that, Heero. Good hunting."

He gave her one more bow before taking his leave. As soon as he was out of sight Ayeka sought out her handmaidens. It didn't take long to find both of them, along with Sasami and Ryo-Ohki; they were hiding in a room overlooking the garden, and they'd clearly been eavesdropping.

"Princess Ayeka!" cried the first handmaiden as she threw the door open.

"We can explain…" the second one began.

Ayeka shook her head. "There is no time for that. I have a task that the two of you must perform at once!"

The two women bowed. "Name it, and it shall be done, your Highness!"

"Summon my retainers," she ordered, "Kuramitsu and Makibi are to meet me in my chambers immediately."

"Understood," her handmaidens replied before rushing off to perform their assigned tasks.

"You're getting Mihoshi and Kiyone?" said Sasami, raising an eyebrow, "Why?"

"Because I fear Lord Yuy is walking into grave danger," she replied, "and although he does not wish to be reinforced, he shall have backup just the same!"

….

"Come on, Mihoshi!" called Kiyone, "Hurry up!"

"I'm coming, Kiyone," replied her partner as she smoothed out the wrinkles in her robe.

I can't believe her, she thought as she hustled through the palace halls, I swear, she picks the worst times to take naps. How can she possibly be so lazy and still be a member of the Palace Guard, let alone a royal retainer?

She already knew the answer to that question, of course. Mihoshi's father and mother were both quite powerful, and their daughter had been brought into the Palace Guard by the Emperor as a means of gaining influence with them. The arrangement made sense, but it still ruffled Kiyone's feathers a bit since she had gotten into the Guard on skill rather than patronage. Nevertheless, she'd eventually accepted Mihoshi as both a comrade and a friend, although her antics did put a strain on the relationship even at the best of times.

Kiyone groaned as her partner struggled to keep up. "Mihoshi, I swear, if we're late because of you then I'll have you run ten laps around the palace tomorrow morning!"

"Aw, not laps again!" pouted Mihoshi, "I hate those!"

"Then move faster so you won't have to run them!" said Kiyone, "We're retainers, Mihoshi; we're supposed to be ready the moment the Princess summons us!"

"But why does she have to summon us during nap time?" asked Mihoshi.

Kiyone wanted to tear her hair out in frustration. "The only one that was napping was you, and you were supposed to be training with me!"

Mihoshi looked confused. "I was? I don't remember you telling me that."

Kiyone rolled her eyes. "I shouldn't have to tell you by now. We train together at the same hour every day!"

"But I forgot what hour it was!" Mihoshi protested.

Kiyone sighed; that didn't surprise her in the least. "Look, forget about that for now! We're almost there!"

The two of them arrived at the door to Ayeka's chambers a few seconds later. Kiyone knocked on the frame.

"Princess Ayeka!" she said, "It's Kiyone! I've brought Mihoshi with me. May we enter?"

"Yes, please," their master responded.

Kiyone and Mihoshi entered the room and immediately bowed. "How might we serve you, Princess Ayeka?"

"Please, raise your heads," Ayeka replied, "and pay careful attention. The task I have for you may well prove to be more dangerous than your typical duties."

Kiyone raised an eyebrow. She wasn't opposed to a dangerous assignment, but it was pretty rare that those came around. Ayeka was clearly troubled, and Kiyone found herself wondering if they were about to get entangled in some serious palace intrigue. In the past Ayeka had tried to keep her retainers out of that sort of mess, but there was always the chance that a day would come when Kiyone and Mihoshi's involvement in such affairs would be necessary.

"What is it, your Highness?" she asked.

"As I'm sure the two of you are already aware of," said Ayeka, "my father has given Lord Yuy two tasks to attend to in recent days. The first he accomplished this morning; dispatching the bandits that plagued the southeastern quarter. However, the second task has yet to be completed. He set out to do just that a little while ago, and I fear that eliminating the demon that's been attacking the capital's shrines these past few weeks will be a much more daunting mission for him to undertake."

"Princess Ayeka," said Kiyone cautiously, "Pardon me if I overstep my bounds, but Lord Yuy's one of the top commanders of the Capital Special Guard Force. Between his skills and the soldiers under his command, I don't think there's anything to worry about."

Mihoshi nodded and smiled. "Kiyone's right, Ayeka! Heero can handle it!"

Kiyone elbowed her partner. "Mihoshi! You can't be so informal with her! How many times do I have to tell you that?"

Ayeka waved her hand dismissively. "It's quite all right, Makibi; I've grown accustomed to Kuramitsu's mannerisms, and I know she means no offense by them. Where my concern lies at the moment is with Lord Yuy. I'm afraid I do not share you and your partner's confidence in his ability to contend with this mission on his own. I tried to convince him to accept reinforcements, but he said they would only compromise his task. I do understand that a larger force might hinder his mission, but I still wish to provide aid in some manner."

Kiyone nodded in comprehension. "And that's why you've summoned us, correct?"

"Quite so," Ayeka replied, "Lord Yuy makes for the northern river shrine as we speak; he believes that to be the demon's next target. I wish for the two of you to head there discreetly and observe from the shadows. The moment Lord Yuy encounters the enemy you are to make yourselves known and provide assistance. Is that understood?"

"Yes, your Highness," the two of the replied together.

Ayeka nodded. "Good. You'd best set off at once; Lord Yuy has a decent head start on you, and there's no telling when he'll engage the demon. I expect you to report back to me the moment your task has been accomplished."

"Understood, your Highness," said Kiyone.

"We won't let you down!" chirped Mihoshi.

The two of them left the room, and Kiyone led the way out of the palace. She had to; Mihoshi had a habit of getting lost, which was rather remarkable when one considered that she worked in the damn place and really ought to have the layout memorized by now.

"This will be fun!" cried Mihoshi as they rushed towards the main entrance.

Kiyone rolled her eyes. "Mihoshi, we're not doing this for fun. This is a serious mission, and you need to treat it that way!"

"Fine," Mihoshi pouted, "I hope Heero doesn't beat the demon before we get there. I want to see it in person."

"If he's unable to defeat it before we arrive, that's not a good thing," Kiyone admonished her, "It means the demon's powerful, and we shouldn't take it lightly. Don't be careless, all right?"

"Okay, Kiyone!" said Mihoshi cheerfully.

Kiyone sighed. Sometimes she wished she could be as easy going as her partner, but this wasn't one of those occasions. This was an assignment from their master, and a very important one at that. Success would mean an improvement in their reputation as retainers, but failure would mean disgrace at the very least. Kiyone had worked very hard to earn her position, and she did not want to lose it because of one assignment going bad due to her partner's carelessness.

I'm not about to fail this mission, she thought with determination as they crossed the bridge leading into the main city, I will make this one a success! Failure's not an option for me now!

….

"All right," said Heero as he rolled up the map and slipped it into his kimono, "You all have your assignments. I expect all of you to return here at dawn to report on your progress. Send a messenger if you spot any signs of our prey. Good hunting."

His lieutenants nodded before running off to their squads. The gathered force quickly dispersed, leaving Heero alone in the middle of the city square. Late afternoon was turning into early evening, and there was already more than a bit of crimson in the sky as the sun descended on the horizon. Heero would have to move swiftly if he was to reach his intended destination before nightfall.

Fortunately it was not too difficult for him to get to his objective. The crowds in the streets had already thinned out considerably, and those who remained were quick to get out of his way; anyone who wasn't blind recognized the uniform of the Capital Special Guard Force.

Has she already made her move?, he thought as he headed towards the shrine, No, it's too early; she's waited until sundown in the previous incidents. Still, she could always change her timing. She is impulsive that way…

He shook his head. What was he supposed to do? His mission was clear enough, but he was rather reluctant to engage in violence against this particular target. After all, he knew this 'demon' rather well, and he had a good idea as to why she was causing such a commotion with the local shrines in recent days.

The river shrine was easy enough to spot. Situated on an island in the middle of the river that ran through the heart of the capital, its twin pagoda towers were quite prominent. A bridge on each side of the island connected it to the riverbanks, and it was very popular with both the locals and visitors from outside the city. The last of the day's worshipers were departing as Heero approached the shrine, and he saw one of the local monks waving at him.

"Lord Yuy," he said, "Your messenger was just here. It's an honor to play host to the Capital Special Guard Force's most renowned commander."

"You may dispense with the pleasantries," said Heero, "I don't have time for them. Has the demon appeared yet?"

The monk shook his head. "We haven't sighted anything unusual as of yet."

Heero nodded. "Good. Clear out whoever remains, including your fellow priests. Temporary lodgings have been made available at the inn across the road; the Empire is footing the bill. You may return in the morning."

The monk raised an eyebrow. "Surely you don't mean to occupy this facility by yourself? Would it not be better to have multiple people on watch for the demon? Our priests are not defenseless, after all; several are former samurai, in fact. Their skills in the martial arts would surely be an asset to you."

"Anyone else will get in my way," said Heero firmly, "Now please, vacate the premises. Return at sunrise, but not a moment sooner. Is that understood?"

The monk bowed reluctantly. "Yes, Lord Yuy. I'll go inform the others."

"Be quick," said Heero, "I don't want my prey to be spooked by so many people milling around here."

It didn't take long for the monk to gather the rest of the shrine's occupants. As soon as they were across the bridge Heero entered the temple grounds and began a thorough inspection of the area. Not spotting any sign of his target outside, he went inside the temple itself and moved from room to room. There were no traces of his prey, which was definitely a good sign; it meant he had a chance to resolve this matter in a way that would satisfy all parties involved… including his target.

Climbing the stairs of the left pagoda, he soon reached the top floor. Opening one of the windows, he then proceeded to climb out it and up onto the roof. The sun might have been setting, but there was still enough light for him to survey the surrounding city. Of course, that light would inevitably fade as well, but Heero wasn't worried; he'd trained himself to operate at any time of day, and his night vision was quite keen as a result.

It was a rather beautiful evening, all things considered. The bustle and noise that characterized the capital during the day had died down, allowing more of nature's song to be heard. Birds cawed, frogs down in the river croaked, and Heero was even able to pick up chirps of crickets if he focused solely on his hearing. The river temple was in a prime position for one to pick up on the sights and sounds of the capital's animal denizens, especially since it was quite a ways away from the 'entertainment' district that inevitably thrived with new life once the sun went down.

As cities go, he mused, this one's not too bad. If I weren't so deeply involved in its security I might be able to take more time to enjoy it. Oh, well. Such is the life I live…

Evening gradually turned to night, but there was still no sign of his target. The sun eventually disappeared completely from sight, but the half-moon hanging in the sky meant he was not completely deprived of light. It was most fortunate for Heero that there were no clouds tonight, and while the breeze was cool it was not uncomfortable. He'd certainly encountered worse conditions for stakeouts in the past, so he wasn't about to complain about tonight's weather.

About an hour had passed before his eyes caught a glimpse of a shadow on the move just across one of the bridge's leading to the shrine. His eyes narrowed, and in the blink of an eye the shadow had crossed the bridge and was on the temple grounds. Heero went into a crouch; his prey was here, and it was heading his way fast.

Before he could react the shadow had already scaled the walls of the pagoda he was perched on. There was a rippling noise as the figure phased through one of the walls, only to be followed by another a second later as it then came up through the roof behind him. Heero whirled around…

…only to find himself being pulled headfirst into the 'demon's' rather prominent chest.

"Heero!" cried Ryoko as she embraced him, "So you finally came out to play with me, eh? It took you long enough!"

Heero shook his head as he extricated himself from her grip. "I didn't come out here to play, Ryoko."

She grinned as she put her arm around him. "Aw, come on, Heero, you don't have to lie to me! I knew you'd break free of that leash Ayeka has you on eventually!"

Heero sighed. "If you wanted to get my attention, there must've been less conspicuous ways of doing so. Really, Ryoko; was vandalizing half the shrines in the capital necessary to draw me out? You could've just snuck into the palace or approached me while I was on patrol in the city."

Ryoko chuckled. "Hey, where's the fun in that? Besides, you know how the people who run these shrines have a bug up their ass about girls like me; I figured I owed them a little payback. Seeing a monk piss himself in the middle of the night when I break a statue in half is priceless!"

"I'm sure it is," Heero deadpanned, "I don't suppose there's a way for you to get your kicks without damaging public property, is there?"

Ryoko shrugged. "Maybe. Like I told you, though, this wasn't just for fun; I wanted to see you again! This got you out here, so clearly it worked!"

Heero nodded. "It did, and the Empire wants me to deal with you now. You've landed yourself in a bit of a mess, Ryoko."

Ryoko laughed. "Please; my whole life's been me jumping from one mess to another, you know that! It's not like this is the first time I've pulled you into one of them, either."

"Don't remind me," said Heero, "still, this is different, Ryoko. You've got the capital running scared now, and the Emperor himself ordered me to stop you. I'd rather do that without violence, so I'm hoping that you'll cooperate with me."

Ryoko smiled. "Sure, as long as if by 'cooperate' you mean you'll run away with me! I guarantee you'll have a lot more fun with me than you would being cooped up back at the palace with that royal brat Ayeka."

"I have responsibilities in this city, Ryoko," Heero replied, "not to mention my engagement to Ayeka. I'm sorry, but running away really isn't an option for me."

Ryoko pouted. "Oh, so that sheltered princess is really more important to you than little old me! I thought we had something, Heero! Remember when we first met? You caught me stealing offerings from that shrine in that village in the middle of nowhere, but instead of arresting me you gave me food!"

"Because the offering you were stealing was food for the local shrine spirits," said Heero, "and you were clearly half starved as it was. I wanted to help you, Ryoko, not enable you. If you were still stealing food from shrines that would be one thing, but defacing statues and scaring monks half to death is another matter altogether."

Ryoko folded her arms. "Well, I couldn't figure out how else I'd get to see you again. You don't make it easy to keep in touch, you know? Seriously, do you have to work at the palace? I hate that place; it's full of stuffy, arrogant rich people and lots of guards!"

"That's where I'm currently assigned," Heero countered, "It's my area of responsibility, so that's where I reside. I don't get to come and go as I please like you do, Ryoko; I have important duties to attend to. I help keep the peace and make sure that people are safe."

Ryoko sighed. "Man, do you hear yourself? You sound more like them now than you do yourself. What happened to that samurai I met back at that shrine? What happened to the guy who cared more about doing the right thing than just following orders?"

"I'm trying to do both, Ryoko," said Heero, "Now, are you going to work with me here, or not?"

Ryoko grinned as she grabbed him by the arm. "Nope! Sorry, Heero, but I'm not going to let those high class twits turn you into one of them. You're coming with me whether you like it or not!"

"Ryoko!" Heero protested.

"Stop right there, demon!" cried a familiar female voice.

Heero and Ryoko turned towards the edge of the roof, where they saw not only Kiyone but also Mihoshi desperately gripping the edge. He was amazed they'd made it up here, especially given Mihoshi's legendary reputation for clumsiness.

"What are you two doing here?" he asked.

"We're here to back you up," said Kiyone as she clambered onto the roof with her partner in tow, "Orders from Princess Ayeka, Lord Yuy."

"How's it going, Heero?" asked Mihoshi with a grin.

Kiyone elbowed her. "This isn't a social call, Mihoshi! We're on the clock, so act like it!"

"Oh, right!" said Mihoshi, bowing her head, "Sorry about that, Lord Yuy!"

Heero shook his head. "Don't worry about it, Mihoshi. How are you? It's been some time since I've seen either of you."

"We're doing great!" chirped Mihoshi.

"Speak for yourself," muttered Kiyone.

Ryoko rolled her eyes. "Great, more stiffs from the palace. Heero, did you have to bring them along?"

"I didn't," said Heero, his eyes narrowing, "In fact, I made it quite clear to Ayeka that I didn't want backup."

Kiyone nodded. "She was well aware of that, but she still insisted on providing you with support. As her retainers, we were duty bound to act on her behalf."

"So you're the demon, huh?" said Mihoshi, peering closely at Ryoko, "You don't look as scary as I thought you'd be."

"Piss me off and that'll change really quick," grumbled Ryoko.

"Let's try to avoid that," said Heero, stepping between them, "Kiyone, Mihoshi, I appreciate the gesture, but I have the situation under control here. You can report back to Ayeka now."

Kiyone shook her head. "I'm afraid we can't report back to her until this demon is officially in custody… or slain."

Mihoshi's eyes widened. "Kiyone! We're not going to hurt her! She hasn't done anything to us!"

Ryoko smirked. "Slay me? Take your best shot, lapdog. I'm not like those dummies you're used to hitting in practice. I hit back, and I pack a mean punch!"

Kiyone glared at her. "Are you threatening a royal retainer? That's not going to end well for you."

"There's no need to fight, you two!" said Mihoshi nervously, "Can't we all just get along?"

"No, we can't!" snapped Kiyone, "We're here to fight her by order of Princes Ayeka, and we will carry out our mission!"

Ryoko laughed. "I'd like to see you try! You two couldn't take me on in my worst hangover, and right now I'm completely sober. You're so screwed!"

Kiyone's hand drifted to the hilt of her sword. "We'll see about that."

"That's enough," said Heero firmly, glaring at both parties, "There's no need for a fight here."

Mihoshi smiled. "See, Kiyone? Heero's got the right idea! Why don't we just let him handle this?"

Kiyone's eyes narrowed. "What exactly do you have in mind, Heero?"

Heero shrugged. "Well, my original plan was to cut some of Ryoko's hair and her palm so some of her blood would be on my blade. After that I was going to report that I'd defeated her but she fell into the river after I struck the final blow, preventing me from retrieving the body."

Ryoko grinned. "Aw, you're totally planning on letting me escape! You really do care, Heero!"

Heero sighed as he looked at Kiyone and Mihoshi. "Something tells me that the two of you would frown upon that plan, though."

Mihoshi looked puzzled. "Why? I think it's a good plan."

Kiyone punched her partner on the shoulder. "Because it means the demon will live, you idiot! His mission's to defeat her, not help her slip away!"

"But they're clearly friends if he's trying to help her!" Mihoshi protested, "It's not right to make Heero fight a friend!"

"It's his duty to fight her!" snapped Kiyone, "I can't believe this…"

Ryoko smirked. "Well, I am a demon; for all you know I've bewitched Heero and he's under my spell! I definitely wouldn't mind putting a spell or two on him, now that I think about it…"

Kiyone glared at her. "That's it! He is under a spell, isn't he? Why else would someone as honorable and dutiful as Lord Yuy shirk his responsibilities like this?"

Ryoko rolled her eyes. "You're really going to take me literally on that one? I thought you were supposed to be the smart one of the two of you."

"Do not play coy, you tramp!" cried a new voice, "I know that is precisely what you have done to Lord Yuy!"

You've got to be kidding me, thought Heero as he and the others looked towards the edge of the roof, It can't be her…

There was no mistaking the newcomer's identity, though. Clinging to the edge of the roof was none other than Ayeka. She wasn't alone, either; Sasami was right there with her, looking rather excited at the situation she'd found herself in. To top things off, he could even see Ryo-Ohki perched on Sasami's head.

"Princess Ayeka!" cried Kiyone as she rushed to help her finish climbing on the roof, "What are you doing here?"

"Sasami!" chirped Mihoshi as she aided the younger princess's ascent, "I didn't expect to see you here! How are you?"

"I'm good," Sasami replied with a smile before turning towards the others, "Is this the demon, Heero? She's pretty!"

Ryoko smiled. "Thanks, kid."

"Meow!" cried Ryo-Ohki in what Heero assumed was a greeting.

"Sasami, do not speak to her!" shouted Ayeka as she got between her and Ryoko, "She will only put a spell on you! She's already bewitched Lord Yuy!"

Heero shook his head, growing increasingly exasperated by the whole situation. "Ayeka, that's not what's going on here."

Ayeka would have none of it. "Fear not, Lord Yuy, for I shall personally free you from this demon's curse! I shall let nothing come between us and our future together!"

Ryoko laughed. "Future together? What a load of crap! Sorry, princess, but you're just not woman enough for a guy like Heero. He's coming with me!"

Ayeka glared at her. "He shall do no such thing! He's engaged to me, and I shall move Heaven and Earth if that's what it takes to save him! You shall not have him, you fiend!"

"Or what?" said Ryoko, "You'll sic your retainers on me? If you really want him so badly, fight me yourself!"

"There's no need for any fighting," said Heero, stepping between them.

His intent was to calm the situation, but it backfired rather badly, starting with Ryoko grabbing onto his arm. "Oh, you're so brave, Heero! I just knew that you would stand up and protect me from these people!"

Ayeka instantly surged forward and grabbed his other arm. "He is doing no such thing! Lord Yuy, you must break this demon's spell! Remember who you are!"

"He knows exactly who he is!" Ryoko countered as she pulled him towards her, "He's coming with me whether you like it or not, you royal brat!"

"Absurd!" Ayeka shouted, "I will not hear of it! He is to be my husband, and I will die before I let you come between us, you foul beast!"

"Cut it out, you two," said Heero as he tried to free himself from their grip, "This is getting ridiculous."

Ryoko was having none of it. "Not a chance, Heero! I'm getting you out of this town! We're going to a place that we can actually have some fun at!"

"He is staying right here!" yelled Ayeka, "This is where he belongs!"

Try as he might to shake them off, Heero was having no luck. It was amazing how strong they were, and he doubted any other women could measure up to their raw power and tenacity.

"Knock it off, both of you!" shouted Kiyone, "Princess Ayeka, what would your father say if he could see you right now?"

"You're gonna hurt Heero!" cried Mihoshi.

"She's right, Ayeka," said Sasami, "You have to stop!"

"Meow!" cried Ryo-Ohki.

"He will endure this for my sake!" screamed Ayeka.

"No, he'll endure it for me!" shouted Ryoko.

"And… there!" said a new voice.

There was a flash of light, and everyone suddenly froze in place. However, Heero was still aware of his surroundings, and he saw none other than Washu standing off to the side. The green sphere that was the heart of the Dimension Turner was floating in front of her, along with what appeared to be a transparent keyboard that her fingers were rapidly typing on.

"Finally," she said, "I was beginning to wonder if I'd ever get us out of this world, and this was only the first one! Oh, it was Ayeka's, in case you hadn't guessed that already."

Pretty sure I had that one figured out from the get-go, Heero mused, Her being a princess here too along with me being her fiancé gave it away pretty quickly…

"Washu!" cried Ayeka, "How dare you end this time in my world so soon?"

Ryoko rolled her eyes. "Oh, give me a break. Your world sucks, Ayeka!"

"It was too stiff and formal," said Mihoshi, "There was too much bowing. My neck was starting to hurt!"

"You could use a bit of that 'stiff and formal' stuff yourself, you know?" Kiyone muttered.

"I've already lived in a palace before," said Sasami, "so it was kind of boring living in another one. Ayeka, that's really your dream world? It wasn't all that different from Jurai. Well, except for Heero being there, anyway. That was the best part!"

"Meow!" cried Ryo-Ohki.

"So," Heero said as the world around him started to spin, "which one's up next?"

"Will it be more fun than this one was?" asked Ryoko.

Washu shrugged. "Who knows? We're about to find out, so brace yourself!"

The spinning rapidly picked up speed, and a moment later the world went black.

….

Azaka: And so, our merry troupe has passed through their first dream world.

Kamidake: They've survived Number One, but five more lie ahead!

Azaka: Whose world shall they encounter next?

Kamidake: What hurdles and challenges lie in wait for them?

Azaka: What shall we learn about the desires of the one who created the next world?

Kamidake: Let us find out together…

Azaka: In world Number Two.

Kamidake: We hope you've enjoyed this illuminating first step of our adventure through time and space!

Azaka: And now, without further adieu, let us rejoin our happy band of dimensional travelers!

Azaka and Kamidake: Here we go!

….

The ferry's horn thundered as the vessel made its way through the fog. Standing on the upper deck of the ship, her dark blue jacket doing very little to shield her from the cold wind, was one of the ferry's very few passengers on today's trip. Her long, dark blue-green hair flowing in the breeze, Kiyone Makibi shivered as she tried to peer through the mist. The fog was so thick today, and she had no idea how close the ferry was to its destination.

How long has it been now?, she thought as she stared out across the water, How many years have passed since I started this trip? Since I gave up being a police officer and took off on this endless journey?

Time had become a haze ever since she'd left her job behind. She'd wandered from town to town, not entirely sure what she was looking for but certain that she hadn't found it yet. Whatever she was seeking would have to be found soon; her savings had been substantial before she'd set off on her journey, but her travels had since taken their toll on her bank account.

I'd be lying if I said I wasn't having second thoughts about all of this, she mused, but, still… I couldn't go on like that. I had no choice but to get away from that nightmare and find a fresh start.

It wasn't like she was leaving much of importance behind. Her career had basically imploded. Her circle of friends had deserted her as she became mired in one mess after another. Even her relationship with her family had become tense as she'd become stuck in her rut without any way to advance up the police hierarchy. When faced with all of that, running as far away from it all as she could felt like the only viable option.

"Run away to the ends of the Earth," she muttered, "At least, that's where it feels like I'm heading."

A faint light appeared through the fog, and as the ferry continued forward Kiyone could make out the vague outline of a lighthouse. The rest of the shore gradually came into view, and beyond that the quiet fishing town that was her destination. It was a far cry from the urban environments that she was so used to, but to Kiyone that was the whole point; she wanted to completely separate herself from her old life, and if there was any place that she could try to start over again, it was somewhere like this.

At least, that's what she hoped.

Heading back inside, she went to the locker where she'd stored her belongings and prepared for debarkation. She hadn't packed much when she'd run off; everything essential to her trip had fit into one duffel bag. She'd picked up a few mementos over the course of her trip, but for the most part her possessions consisted of the bare necessities and little else.

More and more of the sleepy fishing town came into view. She could make out the main dock that the ferry was heading for, along with several smaller such facilities, some occupied by vessels returning with the day's catch. Beyond that were several small homes and storefronts, with no building taller than two stories at maximum. She didn't know why, but Kiyone could feel herself relaxing just at the mere sight of the village. It completely lacked the hustle and bustle that she was so used to from life in the big city. There was peace here, and she would need that more than anything else if she hoped to heal the wounds on her psyche and start anew.

The ferry came into dock a few minutes later, and Kiyone disembarked along with the handful of other passengers that had accompanied her. The others quickly went their separate ways, leaving her alone on the pier without a clue as to where she should go next. A soft grumbling in her belly helped her make up her mind, and she set off in search of a place to grab a bite to eat. A little ways up from the dock she spotted a noodle house, and that seemed like as good a place as any to satisfy her appetite.

She slid open the door and looked around. The place wasn't exactly high-end, but it had a nice and cozy feel to it. This was a place that people could kick back and unwind in after a long day of work, enjoying good food and forgetting about their troubles for a little while.

There weren't many people in at the moment; Kiyone supposed she'd caught the place at just before the dinner rush. She headed towards the bar, hopped onto a stool, dropped her bag on the floor and tapped the small silver bell placed off to the side.

"Be there in a second," she heard a male voice say.

True to his word, he didn't keep her waiting long. The speaker appeared just a few moments later, and Kiyone was rather taken aback by his appearance. His voice had been strong and firm, but he looked like he was only in his late teens at most. He had thick brown hair and dark blue eyes, and Kiyone was struck by the piercing look they had to them.

"Well, now," he said, "It's been quite a while since I've had a new face in here. Welcome, miss…"

"Kiyone," she replied, "Kiyone Makibi."

The young man held out his hand. "Heero Yuy. Nice to meet you, and welcome to our town."

She nodded and smiled as she shook it. "Likewise. Is it really that easy to spot newcomers to this place?"

Heero nodded. "Yeah. I'm sure you noticed on the way in, but this is a pretty small town. Well, unless you just came in on the ferry; with the fog as bad as it is today you probably didn't see too much of the town."

"I actually did use the ferry," she replied, "and yeah, the fog was pretty thick. Is it usually like this around here?"

Heero shrugged. "It comes and goes. Most of the time it's not that bad, though. Anyway, this town really doesn't go too much beyond the coast, so it's not like you missed much."

"I see," said Kiyone.

"So," said Heero, "what can I get you?"

"What do you recommend?" asked Kiyone, "I'm on a bit of a budget, but if you've got something really good that's in my price range I'll definitely try it."

"The tempura noodles are a popular pick," said Heero, "and I've had them myself more than a few times. If you're looking for quality food on a minimal budget, that's my suggestion for you."

Kiyone smiled. "Sounds good to me."

Heero nodded and turned towards the kitchen. "Sasami, new order! One bowl of tempura noodles."

Looking past Heero, Kiyone saw a girl with teal colored hair tied into two very long pigtails peek out of the kitchen and smile. "You got it, Heero!"

"Want anything to drink with that?" he asked.

"Some tea would be nice," she replied.

"I'll take care of that," said another girl coming out of the kitchen, this one older and with purple hair that fell behind her in two long tails, "What kind, miss?"

"Green, please," said Kiyone.

The woman nodded before turning to Heero. "How much longer do you think we have until the usual crowd comes in?"

Heero checked a clock on the wall. "I'd say another ten minutes, tops. Tell Sasami to brace for the dinner rush, Ayeka."

Ayeka smiled. "Of course, Heero. We'll both be ready."

"Is it just the three of you running this place?" asked Kiyone as Ayeka slipped back into the kitchen.

"Four of us, actually," Heero replied.

Kiyone looked around. "Really? Where's the fourth one at?"

"Meow!" cried a high-pitched voice from below.

Kiyone's eyes widened as she saw a strange cat-rabbit hybrid creature on the floor next to her stool. She was torn between confusion and adoration; she'd never seen anything quite like this little furball, but it was pretty cute.

"That's number four," said Heero, "Kiyone, meet Ryo-Ohki. She's our mascot, and she helps keep mice and other vermin away."

Kiyone raised an eyebrow. "You count her as part of your staff?"

"Why not?" Heero replied, "She pulls her weight. The customers like her, especially the ones that bring their kids here. We pay her in food, and she seems rather happy with the arrangement."

Kiyone couldn't help but laugh as Ryo-Ohki hopped up on her laugh. "Well, she certainly seems friendly enough to be a mascot, at least."

The adorable creature smiled at her. "Meow!"

Heero nodded. "Never underestimate the power of a store pet to draw in customers. She's quite popular, and we've definitely seen an increase in revenue ever since she wandered in here."

"Sasami typically takes care of her," said Ayeka as she came out with Kiyone's tea, "She's become quite attached to the little thing."

"I can see why," said Kiyone as she patted Ryo-Ohki on the head before accepting her tea.

"If she becomes a handful," said Ayeka, "please don't hesitate to let us know. We'll have Sasami take her off your hands."

"I don't think that'll be a problem," said Kiyone with a smile as she looked down at the furball, "I think her and I will get along just fine, won't we?"

"Meow!" cried Ryo-Ohki.

"Oh, before I forget," said Ayeka, "Your order's just about ready. It'll be another minute or so at the most."

Kiyone nodded. "Thanks."

The front door opened, and Kiyone saw a handful of customers enter and take their seats. Heero gave her a nod before heading over to them to take their orders, giving Kiyone some private time with Ryo-Ohki. She absently played with the adorable creature's ears, finding herself to be surprisingly content with the situation she found herself in.

It's so simple here, she thought as she looked around, I've only been here for a few minutes, but I already feel right at home. Maybe this is the place I've been looking for…

"Here you are, miss," said Ayeka as she set a steaming bowl of noodles with tempura on top down in front of her, "Best give it a couple minutes to cool off a bit."

"I'll do that," said Kiyone as she took a sip of her tea, "Thank you."

"If you need anything else," Ayeka added, "you have only to ask."

She then trotted off to help Heero with the new arrivals. Kiyone closed her eyes and took a deep sniff of her dish. The smell was absolutely heavenly, and it was all too tempting to just dig in right then and there. All the steam wafting up from the bowl indicated that Ayeka's words of warning were not to be taken lightly, though, so she settled for blowing on the dish and petting her furry companion while waiting for it to cool down.

I can't remember the last time a dish smelled this good to me, she mused, I might just have to become a regular here…

Deciding enough time had passed, she grabbed her chopsticks and took a sample of her dish. Her eyes widened as the flavor hit her tongue; it was even better than she'd hoped for. She then wasted no time in diving in, but she was a little too hasty; she hit a particularly hot spot that caused her to drop her chopsticks and rush for the tea, only to find Heero putting a glass of water down next to her bowl.

"This'll help more than the tea," he said.

Kiyone nodded before taking a sip. "Thanks."

She smiled after her mouth cooled off. "This is really good. I can see why it's so popular."

"It is indeed a crowd favorite," said Heero, "Try to go a little slower with it, though, unless you want to burn your tongue again."

"Will do," Kiyone replied before digging in again.

"Man, that smells good!" said a new voice, "Hey, Heero, can I get some of that?"

Looking to her right, Kiyone saw an amber eyed woman with wild turquoise hair join her at the bar. She seemed rather familiar with the young man who Kiyone had been talking to, and that was quickly confirmed by Heero himself.

"You're here early, Ryoko," he said, "Don't tell me you got fired again."

"Nah," Ryoko replied, "Work was slow, so they let most of us off early. Come on, hook a girl up here! I'll have the same thing the new girl's having, plus my usual drink."

Heero folded his arms. "Can you afford it? You know I don't do tabs, Ryoko… unlike some of the places you've dashed on."

Kiyone watched as she pulled out her wallet and flashed a handful of bills. "There, you see; I'm totally good for it. Come on, Heero, you know I'd never stiff you! You're about the only person in this town that treats me right, after all."

"If you say so," Heero replied before turning back towards the kitchen, "Sasami?"

She poked her head out and smiled when she saw the newcomer. "Oh, hey Ryoko! Do you want the usual?"

Ryoko grinned. "I'm mixing it up this time, kid. Tempura noodles for dinner, but you can keep my drink the same!"

"You got it!" Sasami replied before disappearing back into the kitchen.

"Oh," said Ayeka, glaring as she approached the newcomer, "it's you. If you must get inebriated here again, would kindly do us a favor and vomit outside the premises this time?"

"Ayeka," said Heero, "she's a customer right now, and you're on the clock. Try to be professional, all right?"

Ayeka sighed. "Very well, Heero."

He then turned to Ryoko. "That being said, her point is valid, which is why I'm going to cut you off before you get that drunk. Do you have a problem with that, Ryoko?"

"Nah, it's cool," Ryoko replied, "I didn't come here tonight to get hammered, just to chill."

Heero sighed with relief. "Good. I'll go get your drink."

As he disappeared behind the bar she turned to Kiyone. "So, fresh off the boat?"

"Yes," said Kiyone as she took a sip of her tea, "Is that a problem?"

Ryoko rolled her eyes. "Lighten up, okay? It's not like you're the first newbie to roll into town this year… although I thought we had seen the last of them for this season."

Kiyone raised an eyebrow. "You mean it's not uncommon for new people to show up in a place like this?"

"I wouldn't go that far," said Heero as he returned with a bottle of sake and a cup for Ryoko, "but it's not unheard of, either."

"Why's that?" asked Kiyone, "I'm sorry if this sounds rude, but…"

"A little town like ours doesn't seem like it'd be at the top of many peoples' travel lists," Heero finished for her as he poured Ryoko's drink, "Sound about right?"

Kiyone nodded. "Well… yeah. Again, I'm not trying to be insulting here…"

Heero shook his head. "It's all right. This place is pretty out of the way, and for most people it really doesn't have much to recommend it. Most of the establishments around here more or less support the local fishermen, and this restaurant is no exception. If people aren't involved in either that industry or a supporting one like ours then they really don't have much of a reason to come out here. It's off the beaten path… but, then again, some people deliberately seek it out precisely because of that."

Like me, she thought as she took another bite of her meal, I came out here because it was about as far from my old life as I could imagine…

"Not all of the newcomers stick around," said Ryoko as she pounded back her first cup of sake, "but the ones that do tend to be pretty interesting. You know what I'm talking about, right, Heero?"

"Not really," the young man replied.

Kiyone's eyes narrowed as she studied him. He seemed to be dodging Ryoko's question. Why was that? Was there something more to Heero than just his current occupation?

She was curious, but right now wasn't the time to pry. She had just arrived in this town, and it wouldn't do her any favors to ask too many questions right off the bat and potentially alienate a new friend. Kiyone would file away her questions for another time. For now, she decided to return her attention to the delicious meal in front of her and wasted no time in digging back into her dish.

"Here you go, Ryoko!" chirped Sasami as she brought out another bowl of tempura noodles and placed it in front of her.

Ryoko grinned as she dived right into her meal. "Thanks, Sasami!"

More customers filed in, causing Heero and his staff to disperse so they could attend to all the patrons. Most of the newcomers looked like fishermen, but there were also a few families in the mix, along with a smattering of people from other walks of life. The place was getting busier, but it still maintained that cozy feeling that had hit Kiyone when she'd first walked in the door. She couldn't help but smile as the evening went on and she gradually ate her meal. If she could look forward to spending time at a place like this every night after work, then that might just be reason enough to stick around this town for a while.

Well, that's if I can find a place to stay for cheap, she mused, I don't know this town very well, and I'm really starting to wear down my savings. I'm really not sure where I go from here…

All too soon, she hit the bottom of her bowl. She finished off her tea and water, and before she could even ask for the check Heero was behind the bar passing it to her. Her eyes narrowed as she studied the bill; she knew he'd told her that what she'd ordered was cheap, but the bill still seemed a bit light even for that.

"Not that I'm trying to complain," she said cautiously, "but… are you sure this is the right amount?"

"Call it a courtesy for a first time customer," said Heero.

Kiyone smiled. "That's awfully generous of you, but I don't want to hurt your business."

Heero shook his head. "I appreciate the concern, but we do pretty well here. Besides, someone in your circumstances could use the favor."

Kiyone sighed as she pulled out some bills and passed them towards him. "I can't argue with that. Thanks for the meal. I really needed this."

Heero nodded. "If you head up the road about a block, you'll come to an inn on the right side of the street. I've got an understanding with the manager there; if you tell him I sent you he'll give you a discounted rate for a couple days."

Kiyone's eyes widened. "Are you serious?"

"Do I look like I'm joking?" he deadpanned.

Kiyone bowed her head. "Thank you so much! I promise I'll find a way to pay you back."

Heero shook his head. "Don't worry about it."

"You're a lucky girl," said Ryoko as she downed another cup of sake, "Heero's got a soft spot for your type."

Kiyone raised an eyebrow. "My type? What are you referring to?"

"Don't play dumb," Ryoko replied, "You know what I'm talking about. You're lost and looking for a fresh start. It's written all over your face. Helps that he used to be that way, too."

Kiyone looked over at Heero. "Really?"

"I don't know what she's talking about," said Heero, although the slightest stiffening in his demeanor seemed to hint that he wasn't being entirely honest.

She saw him look down toward the opposite end of the bar, and while another observer might think he was checking up on a customer Kiyone had the feeling that Heero was looking for an excuse to remove himself from the conversation now that it had swung his way. Her curiosity was once again piqued, but she decided not to press the matter. He had just done her not one but two favors this evening, and she didn't have the right to pry into his past so soon after meeting him.

"All right," she said as she stood up and grabbed her bag from the floor, "Thanks again for the meal and the directions, Heero. I owe you one."

"I told you not to worry about that," said Heero, "but… you're welcome, just the same."

She smiled before heading out the door. "I'll see you around, then."

"Take care," he replied.

….

A few days later…

"How's the job hunting going?" asked Heero as he passed her meal to her.

Kiyone sighed as she took a sip of her tea. "Not as well as I'd hoped."

That was an understatement. She felt like she had scoured ever possible employer in town, but none of them were hiring. Kiyone still had enough cash to last her a few more days, but if things didn't turn around soon she would definitely be in trouble.

"That's terrible," said Ayeka, "I'm so sorry to hear that."

"Hang in there!" chirped Sasami.

Kiyone smiled as she blew the steam from her bowl. "I'll be all right, Sasami."

It was late afternoon, but Kiyone had spent so much of the day job hunting already that she hadn't had time to eat lunch until now. Who knew that the skills she'd picked up as a police officer wouldn't translate into talents people were looking for in the job market in this community? She racked her brain to figure out where else she could possibly look for employment in this town, but right now she was coming up empty.

What am I supposed to do now?, she thought as she started eating her lunch, I have to find some way to make a living, but this town isn't exactly bustling with job opportunities right now. I'd really like to stick around here if possible, but at this rate I might have to move on.

"I'm surprised no one's taken you on," said Heero, snapping her out of her thoughts, "You seem like a dependable person, if nothing else. I don't know what your previous line of work was, but you strike me as the type that could adapt to a new job pretty quickly if you had to."

Kiyone nodded. "I'd like to think so, but I guess the businesses in this town just don't have room for new staff right now. It seems I've come at a bad time."

Heero was studying her carefully, and Kiyone wondered what was going through his mind. She'd come by her at least once a day since arriving in this town, and while she felt like she'd build something of a rapport with the restaurant's head honcho she still had a difficult time reading him. He had a guarded feel to him; he was kind and courteous to others, but he wouldn't hesitate to deflect if a conversation turned to the topic of what he'd done before winding up in this town.

"You've really got nothing lined up right now?" he asked after a moment.

Kiyone shook her head. "Believe me, I wish it were otherwise."

"And you don't have another destination in mind past this town?" he continued, his eyes narrowing.

Kiyone nodded. "Honestly, I hadn't thought about going anywhere beyond this place."

Heero closed his eyes for a moment. "Well… I suppose it can't be helped, then. When can you start?"

Kiyone's eyes widened. "Wait, what?"

"You heard me," he said as he opened his eyes, "When can you start working here?"

She was floored by what he was saying. "You're offering me a job? Just like that?"

"I do run this place," he said, "I can take on whoever I feel like, whenever I feel like. It's not exactly glamorous work, but we get steady business here; you'll make enough to get by in this town if you're planning on sticking around here for a while. We've been doing pretty well for ourselves, and we could definitely use another set of hands around here. I think you'd do all right, but it's your call."

Kiyone smiled and nodded. "Yes, absolutely! I can start right now if you want!"

She was surprised to see a small smirk appear on his face. "Well, I'd rather you at least finish your lunch before I put you to work. If you're really that eager to get started, once you're done eating you can let me know and I'll start up your orientation. We can talk salary after that."

Kiyone bowed her head. "Thank you so much! I promise that you won't regret this."

Heero nodded. "I believe you. I'm looking forward to working with you."

He went off to help another customer, leaving her to continue her meal by herself. Her smile remained on her face the whole time. She couldn't believe her good fortune. She'd been on the verge of a major crisis, and out of the blue Heero had offered her a lifeline. Kiyone wanted to find some way to pay him back for all he'd done for her since she'd arrived in this town, but she had no idea where to start. For now she would simply focus on being the best employee she could; she'd figure out the rest later on.

I was really starting to worry there, she thought as she took a sip of her tea, but it seems like my luck's finally turning around.

She looked over at the young man who had given her such a badly needed hand.

Heero Yuy…

…you're quite a guy, you know that?

If I'd had someone like you in my life back then…

…maybe things would've turned out differently.

….

A few days later…

"Here you go," said Kiyone cheerfully as she passed a bowl of noodles across the bar to a customer.

The man smiled as he smelled his dish. "Ah, thanks! That's just what I need after a long day at work."

Kiyone nodded. "Please, let us know if you need anything else. Enjoy your meal!"

"Kiyone!" cried Sasami as she brought out another meal, "Can you get this to Table Five please?"

Kiyone smiled as she took the tray from Sasami. "Of course. I'll get right on it."

Sasami nodded. "Thanks! I'd take it myself, but I'm pretty busy back in the kitchen right now."

"I'll bet," said Kiyone as she looked around, "We've got quite a crowd going right now."

"We're almost through the worst of it," said Ayeka as she walked by with drinks for another table, "Give it another half an hour or so and it should start easing up."

Kiyone nodded. "Sounds good. I think I'll be able to manage until then."

It was hard to believe how far she'd come in just a handful of days. When Heero had first started her orientation here, Kiyone had felt a little overwhelmed. The restaurant might be small, but it was hardly a small task to keep it running and earning a profit. It had been a very eye-opening experience and a complete one-eighty from her prior occupation, but she'd done her best to keep up and learn on the fly. Apparently she was on the right track; Heero hadn't fired her yet, at least.

It hadn't taken the regular customers long to realize that there was a new face amongst the restaurant staff. Kiyone had been slightly worried about how they'd receive her, but it turned out her fears had been misplaced. The establishment's clientele were, for the most part, a kind and understanding bunch, and they'd given her a warm welcome. There had been a few customers who were a little overly enthusiastic about the presence of another young woman on the staff, but a couple of stern looks from Heero ensured that they kept their hands to themselves.

As soon as she delivered her tray to the waiting customer she headed right back to the kitchen for the next one. The place was doing steady business this evening, and it had been much the same the past few days as well. It had forced Kiyone to hit the ground running as far as her new job was concerned, but she was actually grateful for that. Not only did it serve as effective on-the-job training for her, but it was a good sign of just how well this place typically did. If this sort of business traffic was the norm for this establishment then it meant that Kiyone had found herself a potentially secure job and a means to build up her savings again.

More importantly than that, though, were her new coworkers. Everyone, including Sasami, was very good at their jobs. They knew exactly what they had to do and worked together as a fluid team to keep their restaurant going. They could count on each other, and while there was the occasional mishap it was always something small, an incident that could be easily recovered from. There was no lurching from one giant mess to the next day by day; there was a consistency to this place that was invaluable to Kiyone after the train wreck of her last job.

This is it, she thought as she served up another customer, I was looking for this. A simpler life, a new job with people that I can rely on… and I think I've found it. I never imagined myself going into the restaurant business to find it, but if this keeps up then I don't see why I'd ever leave.

She saw Heero looking at her from behind the bar. As always, his stoic demeanor made him hard to read, but when he met her gaze he gave her what looked like an approving nod. She smiled at him as she continued her work, glad that he appeared pleased with her progress. It wasn't just because she wanted to get on the good side of her new boss and keep her job; she was genuinely curious about him and wanted to get to know him better. He'd given her a new job and a chance at a fresh start after knowing her for only a few days, and that was certainly enough to get her interested in him.

He seems like a pretty nice guy where it counts, she thought, I don't understand why he's so guarded.

Ryoko's words from her first day in the restaurant were never far from her mind.

"Heero's got a soft spot for your type."

Kiyone raised an eyebrow. "My type? What are you referring to?"

"Don't play dumb," Ryoko replied, "You know what I'm talking about. You're lost and looking for a fresh start. It's written all over your face. Helps that he used to be that way, too."

It was hard to picture a man as calm and collected as him having once been as lost as she'd felt before coming to this town. He might've been young, but he still seemed to have his life together if the way he ran the restaurant was any indication. Ayeka and Sasami certainly seemed to be at ease around him, and the same went for the furry restaurant mascot as well. Did they already know what was up with him and were comfortable with it, or had they decided to simply respect his privacy as long as he treated them well? It was tempting for Kiyone to take the latter path, but the instincts from her old job hadn't completely died since she'd started her journey. Her new boss was a mystery, one that she wanted to crack open.

Of course, the trick was finding the opportunity to talk with him, and with the dinner rush still going Kiyone couldn't exactly put her work off for a casual conversation with him. Still, if Ayeka was correct, things would likely start to quiet down soon. The closing hour would likely be her best chance, but Kiyone would keep her eyes open for any opportunity that came up.

She continued to take orders and deliver food and drink, ever mindful of Ryo-Ohki occasionally slipping between her legs as she darted about the place. The adorable mascot of the restaurant seemed to have her own work routine as she made the rounds between tables, oftentimes hopping right up on them to interact with the customers. It seemed to be a familiar act, one that the establishment's clientele apparent enjoyed, and they would even slip her bits of food occasionally as a tip. The cute furball was much smarter than she appeared, and not for the first time Kiyone found herself wondering just where she had come from before winding up in this place.

She's such an odd little creature, she mused, Still, it looks like she earns her keep around here. I guess that's all that matters for right now.

The night went on much as the last few had, and the crowd gradually started to thin out. Eventually the last few customers paid their bills and head out, and Heero gave them the nod that meant it was time to start closing up shop.

"Another productive evening," said Ayeka with a smile as she cleaned the tables, "I think we did even better than last night."

"It was a good crowd," said Kiyone while she swept the floor, "I was starting to get nervous there."

"You did fine," chirped Sasami as she carried several bowls back to the kitchen for washing, "Heero said so himself earlier."

Kiyone's eyes widened as she glanced at her boss, who was busy cleaning up behind the bar. "Really?"

Sasami grinned and nodded. "Yup! He said you were fitting in pretty well here. You're a natural at this, Kiyone!"

Kiyone smiled. "I… I'm glad to hear that. Thanks."

She finished up her sweeping a little while later and went to put the broom away. After that she went back up front and leaned against the bar, wanting to take a bit of a breather before wrapping up her duties for the night. Restaurant work was much more tiring than she'd originally thought, and after being unemployed for so long Kiyone was sure that it would take her stamina a while to build back up again.

"Mind if I join you?" said a familiar male voice, causing her to jump.

"Heero!" she said as she whirled around, finding him behind the bar, "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to slack off!"

"Who said you were slacking off?" he replied, "It's been a long day; you've earned the right to rest up a little bit."

She sighed with relief. "Thank you. I just… I didn't want you to think that I couldn't handle this."

"And I don't," said Heero, "You've been pulling your own weight ever since you started here. Things can get pretty busy, and it can be a little hectic sometimes, but you've kept up with the rest of us just fine."

Kiyone smiled. "I appreciate that. I just want to do my best and prove to you that I deserve this job. I owe you at least that much after you hired me out of the blue like that."

"And you're doing just fine on that front," Heero replied as he pulled out a bottle of sake and some cups, "In fact, I think you've earned the right to celebrate a little."

Her eyes widened as he poured drinks for the two of them. "Are you sure?"

Heero nodded. "Consider it on the house. After a successful night like this, I think we can afford it."

"Well, then," she said as she grabbed her cup, "When you put it like that, who am I to refuse?"

He raised his cup. "To a successful start for your new career."

Kiyone smiled as she mirrored the gesture. "I'll drink to that."

The liquor hit her like a hard punch as it went down; it'd been a while since she'd had anything quite so strong. She could feel the heat rushing to her face, and while she wasn't the type to get flat out drunk she certainly didn't mind the sensation.

"That's some good stuff," she said.

"It's a personal favorite of mine," said Heero as he downed his cup, "I prefer to save it for special occasions, and I think this qualifies as one. Even if it didn't… well, sometimes it's good to have something to take the edge off."

"Does that happen often with you?" she asked cautiously.

He closed his eyes for a moment, and Kiyone feared that she might've taken a step too far. However, he didn't look angry, and when he opened them again she thought she saw a hint of melancholy in them.

"Not as often as it used to," he said, "Alcohol's not the answer to making peace with your past, no matter how tempting it might seem. Still, when memories that you'd rather keep buried start to crop up, sometimes a single drink can help bolster your defenses. It's not good to use it as a crutch, though."

"You're speaking from experience," she said, meeting his gaze, "How bad was it? Whatever you went through, I mean."

He was quiet for a moment before he spoke again, and his reply caught her a little off guard. "Your background… if I had to guess, I'd say law enforcement. Is that about right?"

Her eyes widened. "How did you…"

"The way you carried yourself when you first walked in here," said Heero, "and the way I've seen you scan crowds since then. You've got some sharp eyes, and I can tell from your demeanor when you're looking for potential troublemakers. It's subtle, but the shift's there just the same."

Kiyone nodded. "Sounds like I'm not the only one that's got sharp eyes. Yeah, you're right; I was a cop before I came out here. How about you? You're certainly observant enough to have been trained as one."

"Not quite," Heero replied, appearing uncharacteristically hesitant, "but it was a… related profession."

She studied him carefully. "In that case…military?"

"Yes," he said with a nod.

That certainly made sense; his calm demeanor and steely focus were definitely traits that she could identify as belonging to someone who had served in the armed forces. However, that just raised further questions as far as Kiyone was concerned.

"But… you're so young," she said, "I'm sorry, but you look like you're not even as old as I am."

"I don't doubt that a bit," he said, "My upbringing and talents were enough to let me slip by a few regulations concerning that, though."

Kiyone shuddered; she didn't want to think about what that implied. "So… you've seen some action then, haven't you?"

"Why do you think I'm out here now?" he replied.

Kiyone winced. "That bad, huh?"

"All action is bad," said Heero grimly, "The only differences are simply how bad it can get."

Kiyone looked down, ashamed to have touched upon what was clearly a deep scar for him. "I'm sorry… I shouldn't have pried like that."

Heero shook his head. "It's all right. I wouldn't be talking to you like this now if it wasn't, would I?"

"Still," she said, "after all you've done for me, I don't want to intrude on your private life."

"You have the right to know who you're working for," said Heero, "just like I have the right to know who I'm employing. Trust is a two way street. A little bit of give and take can go a long way."

Kiyone smiled. "You sound like one of my old instructors. Of course, that was in a course on interrogations."

"And our current conversation doesn't apply as one?" he said wryly.

"Well, I'd rather avoid interrogating my new boss," she said with a chuckle, "I'd prefer not to jeopardize my current job."

"Relax," said Heero, "You're safe."

Kiyone nodded. "All right. In that case, if you don't mind me asking, how did you come to run this place?"

"A relative of Ayeka and Sasami owned this restaurant back when I first showed up here," he replied, "I came in one day for a meal, and by the time I finished eating I had a new job; the old man took a liking to me, although to this day I'm still not entirely sure why."

"Where's he at now?" asked Kiyone.

Heero shrugged. "I don't know. One day he was here, the next he just up and left. He left a note asking me to run the place and keep an eye on the girls, and that was it. I've been here ever since."

Kiyone's eyes narrowed. "Did you ever try to figure out where he went?"

Heero nodded. "Sure. I asked some of the regulars and his friends around the town, but I didn't get much. What they did tell me gave me the impression he'd been planning on leaving for some time; something about no longer hiding from his past. I didn't get much more than that, though."

"How did Ayeka and Sasami take it?" she asked.

He looked back at the kitchen where both girls were cleaning up before answering. "Better than I thought they would. I think they were expecting something like that to happen, although not the exact timing. It was tough adjusting to the old man not being around anymore, but we managed to make it through. We're still here, aren't we?"

Kiyone smiled. "Indeed, you are, and for that I'm quite grateful. I owe you one for all that you've done for me."

"Just keep up the good work," said Heero, "and we can call it even."

Kiyone nodded. "All right. I should get back to it, then. This place won't clean itself, after all."

"Can't argue with that," said Heero.

He returned to setting the bar in order for the night, but before Kiyone returned to her duties she turned back to Heero again. "Hey, Heero?"

"Yes?" he said.

She smiled. "If you ever want to talk again sometime… well, I'm not going anywhere for a while."

She was surprised to see him give her a very small smile in return. "I might take you up on that. The same goes for you; if you need to get something off your chest, you know where to find me."

Kiyone didn't know why, but she could feel herself blushing. "I… I appreciate that. Thanks."

She hurried back to her cleanup duties, and Heero did the same. The whole time she was playing her part in closing down the restaurant for the night, her smile never left her face.

What is it about him?, she thought, Why does it feel like I can just talk to him about anything? I haven't trusted someone like this in a long time. I still barely know him, and yet I'm completely comfortable around him. All those other towns that I passed through on my way here… none of them had a guy like him in them.

Maybe that's why this place feels like the one that I can settle down in…

…because he's here.

….

A few days later…

"Hey, new girl?" said Ryoko with a grin as she held up her empty sake cup, "How about a refill?"

Behind the bar, Kiyone turned to Heero, who gave her a nod. "Go ahead. I'll let you know when to cut her off."

Kiyone smiled before turning back to her customer. "All right. Coming right up!"

It was late in the afternoon, which meant that the restaurant staff was enjoying the relative calm before the imminent dinner rush. Apart from Ryoko there were just a handful of customers, so Heero was taking advantage of the light traffic to give Kiyone the opportunity to try some new roles within her job. It hadn't taken her long to get used to working the bar with him, and she was glad to be back there rather than walking the floor from table to table.

"Here you go," she said as she poured Ryoko her drink.

"Thanks," Ryoko replied before pounding it back, "I knew you were good for something."

Heero folded his arms. "Ryoko."

"What?" she said, "I did say 'thanks', didn't I? What more do you want?"

"For you to be a little more polite to my newest staff member," he said firmly, "I know you and Ayeka banter back and forth, and I'm fine with that, but I'd appreciate it if you'd not do the same with Kiyone."

Kiyone shook her head and smiled. "It's all right, Heero. Trust me; I can handle it."

Heero nodded. "Okay. I've still got your back if she gets out of hand, though."

Kiyone chuckled. "Thanks. I'll hold you to that."

Ryoko smirked. "Well, you two are pretty chummy these days, aren't you? Something going on that you want to tell me about?"

Kiyone didn't know why, but she could feel herself blushing. "I don't know what you're talking about."

Ryoko rolled her eyes. "Yeah, right. Come on, admit it; you two hooked up. Gotta say, I'm kinda impressed; you move fast, new girl."

"It's not like that!" Kiyone snapped, her face only growing redder despite the fact that she was telling the truth.

"You two are lively today," said Sasami as she came out with a tray laden with steaming bowls of noodles, "What's going on, Kiyone?"

"Nothing! We're just… chatting," said Kiyone, unsure if Sasami should be exposed to what Ryoko was implying.

Sasami smiled. "Well, save the good stuff for me! I'll be back in a minute!"

The good stuff?, thought Kiyone as she watched her younger coworker take her tray to one of the tables, Does she really know what she's talking about? If she does… then this kid's a lot smarter than she looks.

She nearly jumped out of her shoes as Ryo-Ohki hopped up onto the bar next to her. "Meow!"

Taking a moment to catch her breath, Kiyone scowled at her furry companion. "Crap, Ryo-Ohki… don't scare me like that, all right? Someone needs to get you a collar with a bell."

"That's not a bad idea," said Ayeka as she came out with a cup of tea, "I think Sasami would like that. It certainly sounds cute."

"Feel free to run that by her," said Heero as she went to deliver the tea to a customer, "I'll pay for it myself if she thinks Ryo-Ohki will like it."

Ayeka nodded and smiled. "Thank you, Heero."

Kiyone looked down at Ryo-Ohki again, who was smiling up at her without a care in the world. In the face of that overwhelmingly adorable face, Kiyone's scowl just couldn't hold together. She sighed before reaching down to pet the creature on the head.

"You're lucky you're cute, you know that?" she said, "That's the only reason I'm letting you off the hook for nearly giving me a heart attack."

"That gets her off the hook for pretty much anything as far as Ayeka and Sasami are concerned," said Heero, shaking his head, "Cuteness is a powerful survival tool for her."

Kiyone smirked. "Oh, yeah? Does it work on you too, Heero?"

Heero shrugged. "Maybe. I do let her stay here, after all."

Kiyone couldn't help but laugh. "So cuteness does influence you, huh? Good to know."

She was surprised to see him chuckle. "Perhaps you should start taking pointers from Ryo-Ohki if you're hoping to use it against me. I hear she can be bribed with carrots."

"Don't give her too many!" chirped Sasami as she passed by on her way back to the kitchen, "She needs to watch her weight!"

"Meow!" Ryo-Ohki whined.

"It sounds like she disagrees," said Heero.

"Of course she does," said Ryoko with a grin as she reached over to pet her, "Don't let them shortchange you, furball!"

"If you want to give her snacks, you're free to offer her a bite of your dish," Heero replied.

"Maybe I will," said Ryoko, "I bet you'd like that, wouldn't you, Ryo-Ohki?"

"Meow!" cried the adorable mascot.

Ryoko fished a carrot out of her bowl with her chopsticks and passed it to the cute furball. "There you go! Now, tell me; who's your favorite customer?"

"Meow!" Ryo-Ohki cheered as she wolfed down the carrot.

Kiyone chuckled and shook her head. "She's easily bought."

"Well, she has simple needs," said Heero, "and it doesn't take much to hit the right price with her."

She's not the only one with simple needs, Kiyone mused as she got back to work, I think I've found mine out here…

Indeed, the longer she spent at Heero's restaurant, the more she felt like this was the place she had been searching for since her journey began. A cozy little place where she could make a peaceful living, forge a few new friendships, and build a quiet life for herself away from the mayhem that she'd once known… it was so simple, and yet it was so important to Kiyone that she'd abandoned her old career and lifestyle to find it.

I just might've found where I belong, she thought as she looked at her boss, and I owe it all to you, Heero…

He'd given her shelter when she'd badly needed it. He'd given her good food and gainful employment even though he barely knew her. When they'd first met, she'd been just another customer; he had no obligation towards her, no duty to go out of his way to help a total stranger like her. Yet he had done exactly that. He had reached out and offered her a helping hand that she hadn't realized until that moment just how badly she needed. Despite his protests, Kiyone still felt deeply indebted to him, and wanted to find some way to return the favor.

She felt like the more she got to know him, the better the chance she would have to figure out the best way to repay him for his kindness to her. So much of him was still a mystery to her, but bit by bit she was starting to peel away the layers, gradually finding out just what kind of man he truly was. It felt like she was unraveling a mystery, only this one felt so much more rewarding then the cases she'd worked on back when she was a cop. There was no promotion or monetary gain to be had in doing so, but there was something much more satisfying to her; the chance to make a true, lifelong friend… and perhaps more.

What all had he left behind when he'd come out here? Was it just his military career that he'd abandoned, or was there more than that? Had he left behind parents? Siblings?

A woman?

That last question was one that she wanted to find an answer to more than the rest. If there was a woman in his life at this time, Kiyone was sure she would've seen some sign of them by now. Everything so far indicated that Heero was single, but had it always been that way? Kiyone found that hard to believe; a man like him was quite a catch, as any girl who took the time to get to know him like she had would attest to.

I never imagined myself hitting on my boss in my last line of work, she mused with a smile, but with him… well, the temptation's there. He'd definitely be worth the risk…

She shook her head, trying to bring her focus back to her job. Now wasn't the time for idle daydreaming. Things were relatively lax now, but the dinner rush would be starting all too soon, and she had to get ready for that. So she busied herself with some cleaning, but even then she couldn't help but hum a soft tune and occasionally glance at her employer. If he knew she was watching him, Heero gave no sign of it.

Life was good. She'd found a new job, a new place to stay, new friends, and quite possibly more depending on whether or not she ever worked up the nerve to make a move on Heero. She could see herself settling down for the long haul in this town, making a quiet living for herself as far removed from her old life as possible, and she couldn't be happier about it.

Until a familiar voice brought it all crashing down.

"Excuse me," said a woman from outside the restaurant, "You guys are open, right?"

Kiyone's face paled.

No...

It can't be…

It's not possible!

She can't have found me!

"Of course we are," said Heero, oblivious to the walking calamity that he was about to invite into his establishment, "Come on in."

"You've got to be kidding me…" she said softly.

"Kiyone, are you all right?" asked Ayeka.

"Why?" Kiyone muttered, completely ignoring her coworker, "Why now?"

This can't be happening!

Sure enough, there she was a second later. That dark skin, curly blond hair, wide and innocent blue eyes, and clueless smile… they were a sight that Kiyone had prayed that she would never see again.

Mihoshi Kuramitsu.

"Welcome!" chirped Sasami.

"Please, have a seat," said Heero.

Kiyone was completely frozen as Mihoshi approached the bar. She prayed that she would somehow escape notice, but it was a vain hope. As soon as she sat down her old partner found her, and Mihoshi's eyes widened with delight.

"Kiyone!" she cried, "I finally found you!"

God damn it!, she silently screamed, Why? Why do you have to be inflicted upon me like all the plagues of Juraian mythology?

What did I do to deserve the likes of you constantly ruining my life?

"And there we go!" said another familiar female voice.

Everything froze, but Kiyone was still aware of her surroundings. At the very edge of her peripheral vision she spotted the source of the voice and the rest of this madness; Washu. The Dimension Turner was floating in front of her, and her fingers were dancing across a hard-light keyboard.

"Finally," said Washu as she wiped the sweat from her brow, "It took a lot longer than I thought it would to close this one out. Well, better late than never, right?"

"Are you kidding me?" snapped Ryoko, "That took you forever, Washu! I swear, this world was worse than Ayeka's!"

"At least you weren't a demon in this one," said Heero.

"Hey, being a demon was fun!" Ryoko replied, "This world was just boring."

Kiyone blushed. "Well, my idea of a dream world doesn't involve me being an active criminal, so it would have a slower pace than any world you mightcome up with!"

"It was all right," said Sasami, "I liked working in the kitchen!"

"It certainly was a unique experience," said Ayeka, "Although, really, Kiyone; operating a restaurant is beneath someone of my social standing. How could you possibly see me in that role?"

"You got to work for Heero," said Ryoko, "I didn't think you'd complain about that."

Ayeka blushed. "I most certainly am not."

"I want to know why I didn't show up until the very end," Mihoshi pouted, "Kiyone, why did you keep me out of the fun?"

The answer to that was obvious, but even now Kiyone couldn't bear to bring herself to tell the truth to her partner. She needed, more than anything else, some time and space away from Mihoshi, and that's what she'd gone for with her dream world.

So why had Mihoshi wound up finding her anyway?

This was supposed to be a perfect world for her, and Kiyone's ideal world wasn't supposed to include Mihoshi. She recalled Washu mentioning that the Dimension Turner didn't just use the subject's manual inputs; subconscious thoughts and desires also played a role in determining the kind of world the device created.

But that would mean…

…that part of me likes having Mihoshi in my life.

What the hell is wrong with me?

"Kiyone?" said Mihoshi, "Kiyone, can you hear me? Are you doing okay?"

Kiyone sighed. "Yeah… I'm just fine."

"Well, good," said Washu, "You lot better brace yourselves, because the next world's coming up fast!"

….

Azaka: And with that, our band of time and space travelers have passed through their second world.

Kamidake: It was so unlike the one that came before it.

Azaka: Indeed, and it is far from the end of their journey.

Kamidake: Two worlds down, with four more to go!

Azaka: Who can say what surprises the next world shall hold for our merry bunch of friends?

Kamidake: It's anyone's guess at this point. All options are on the table!

Azaka: And so, without further adieu, let us join our companions in the next world.

Kamidake: We hope you enjoy the ride!

….

Her hand went to her mouth as Ayeka tried and failed to stifle a yawn. She'd tried to rest up as best as possible the night before, but her studies had gone longer than intended. That was one of the unfortunate side effects of being the Student Committee Chairwoman; she had to excel in all aspects of academic life, otherwise her peers would not consider her to be worthy of her position at school.

"So, even Miss Perfect gets tired once in a while, eh?" said a familiar female voice from behind her.

Ayeka whirled around, her eyes widening as she saw Ryoko. "How long have you been standing there? Have you been following me?"

Ryoko rolled her eyes. "Oh, get over yourself. We both walk the same way to school each day."

Ayeka folded her arms. "Yes, but normally I never see you because you leave so late. If we're meeting here right now then it means you'll actually be on time today. My, my; that's such an uncommon occurrence, wouldn't you say?"

Ryoko sighed. "Yeah, well, if I'd known I was going to run into you like this I would've left late. Man, what a lousy way to start the day!"

Ayeka glared. "Well, then why don't you just go home! It's not like anyone would notice if you arrived at school late again, or even skipped altogether! You're nothing but a delinquent; I can't believe you haven't been kicked out of school yet."

Ryoko scowled. "Are you trying to pick a fight? Bring it on, Committee Chair; I promise you'll break more than just a nail."

"I see hostilities have commenced early today," said an approaching mail voice, "You two couldn't even wait until lunch hour to start going at it."

Both girls immediately smiled at the speaker, who was none other than Heero Yuy. Ayeka's heart fluttered when she saw him. Yes, he had on the exact same black uniform required by other male students at their school, but he wore it so much better than the other boys in class.

"Good morning, Heero!" she said.

"Hey! How's it going?" asked Ryoko.

"That depends," said Heero, "Will you two be fighting all day?"

"Oh, heavens no!" said Ayeka, "We were just exchanging morning pleasantries, weren't we, Ryoko?"

Ryoko nodded. "Yeah, what she said. No need to worry, Heero!"

Heero nodded. "Good. Let's get a move on."

He continued past the two of them, and as soon as his back was turned Ayeka and Ryoko glared at each other. Of course their fighting was not concluded for the day; it had only just begun. Still, they would try to at least refrain from recommencing hostilities until they actually arrived at school.

And so the three of them continued on their way…

…completely unaware of the fact that they were being watched.

….

"Oh crap, oh crap, oh crap!" muttered Mihoshi as she rushed towards the school.

She could already hear the morning bell ringing. This was so embarrassing; she had overslept yet again, and she was quickly loosing count of how many days she had shown up at school just as the final morning bell stopped ringing, or even afterwards. It would be one thing if she were one of the more unruly students enrolled on campus, but the fact that she was a teacher made things worse.

Oh, man, she thought, If Kiyone finds out about this she's really going to let me have it!

She was just about at the front gate, but right when she crossed the threshold she tripped and fell flat on her face. As she got up she saw the clock on the far wall; it had just turned eight-thirty.

"Oh, no, wait!" she cried as she dusted herself off, "It can't be that time already!"

I'm really in for it now!

….

Kiyone smiled as she finished studying the final notes for her lesson plan. "All right, everything looks good!"

She then scanned the office that she shared with several other teachers. The rest of her colleagues were likewise putting the final touches on their schedules for the day before heading off to their respective classrooms. As she looked around the room she could not help but notice the rather conspicuous absence of a certain blonde-haired teacher.

"Oh, come on, Mihoshi!" she hissed, "Not again!"

As if on cue, there was a loud thud as someone came tumbling through the office door and hit the floor. Walking towards the entrance, Kiyone found her coworker and friend sprawled out down below, as uncoordinated a mess as ever.

"Ow," Mihoshi moaned, "That hurt!"

Kiyone sighed. "You're late again, Mihoshi!"

"I'm so sorry, Kiyone!" Mihoshi replied as she scrambled to her feet.

Kiyone hung her head in frustration. "Really, Mihoshi! What kind of teacher arrives at work late as often as you do? What kind of example does that set for your students?"

"It's not like I try to be late so much!" Mihoshi shot back.

Kiyone shook her head. "Honestly, at this point I'm so exasperated that it gives me a headache just talking about it. I can't just stand by and let this behavior slide forever, Mihoshi!"

"Please don't be that way!" begged Mihoshi, "Don't abandon me, Kiyone!"

Kiyone scowled. "I would've abandoned you a long time ago if I could have!"

"Kiyone!" cried Mihoshi.

It was then that the bell rang again, interrupting their argument. Kiyone's eyes widened as she checked the clock.

"Oh, great!" she growled, "Now I'm going to be late for my class! I hope you're happy, Mihoshi. Now I'm tardy just like you!"

Mihoshi's eyes widened. "Oh, no! I'm so sorry, Kiyone!"

"Then make it up to me by not being late anymore!" snapped Kiyone as she ran out of the office towards her classroom.

This is not how I wanted to start my day, she thought, I hope the rest of it goes better than this…

….

Sitting at her desk, Mihoshi was fighting like hell just to stay awake. It would set yet another bad example for her students if she started nodding off in the middle of class, but she was afraid she might end up doing so anyway. It was nothing short of a miracle that she was still leading the current lesson, and she was fading fast.

"Well," she said, stifling a yawn, "up next is Uji-Shui-Story, Volume 4. In this story, about the demon at Rasho-mon, the demon and a warrior create a triangle relationship with a princess and…"

Her weariness seemed to be infectious; almost every student in her class was either zonked out already or gradually nodding off. Even a student as respectable as Ayeka seemed to be struggling to keep her eyes open, which was certainly a rare sight. That should've been reason enough for Mihoshi to head to the break room, down some coffee, and come back energized by the power of caffeine, but she couldn't even motivate herself to do that right now.

She was surprised to see that Ryoko wasn't among the students that were nodding off. Quite the contrary; she was actually smiling as she looked at her book. Then again, given Ryoko's past record with classes it was doubtful that the girl was actually enjoying the lecture. It was more likely that she had found something else amusing and was simply using the book as a cover for it.

As if on cue, Ayeka stood up and glared at her classmate. "Ryoko, just what the hell do you think you're doing?"

Mihoshi looked on as Ryoko raised an eyebrow at the Student Committee Chairwoman. "Just enjoying the lecture. What's up with you, Ayeka?"

Out of the corner of her eye Mihoshi saw Heero put his palm to his forehead. "Here we go again…"

Ryoko smiled. "I'm just having my early lunch. What's wrong with that?"

Looking closer, Mihoshi realized that Ryoko did indeed have her book propped up in a way that would be quite good for concealing food. It wasn't something that Mihoshi was overly concerned with, though; she was perfectly fine with her students eating in class. It was only Ayeka, the strict disciplinarian that she was, who had any sort of problem with it.

Ayeka scowled. "And since when does a high school lunch include sake?"

Mihoshi raised an eyebrow. Sake? Had the school changed its policy on alcohol on school grounds?

Ryoko shrugged. "Since today, I guess. Want some?"

"I most certainly do not!" Ayeka snapped, "Oh, I cannot believe you! Your run-of-the-mill delinquency is one thing, but this? We're in a classroom, not a bar!"

"Oh, relax," she said as she raised her glass, "I only poured myself one cup of it. It's not like I'm going to get hammered in the middle of class, so there's no problem, right?"

"The fact that you are consuming alcohol in the middle of class at all is problem enough!" Ayeka shot back.

"Oh, get over it already," said Ryoko.

"You are so disrespectful," Ayeka replied, "You're absolutely beyond decency!"

Guess I can't let them go on like this, thought Mihoshi, They're disrupting class.

She stood up, trying to wake up as she addressed the two arguing students. "Hey, you two! Please be quiet, all right? We're in the middle of lecture here! If you don't calm down I'll have to get angry!"

"Please say something to her, Miss Mihoshi!" cried Ayeka, "She's gone too far this time!"

Mihoshi nodded before walking over to the two girls and clearing her throat. "Miss Ryoko…"

Ryoko smiled and held out the cup of sake. "You want some, too? Here, try it."

Mihoshi smiled. "Oh, thank you, Ryoko! That's just what I need!"

"Miss Mihoshi!" Ayeka shouted, "You absolutely cannot be serious!"

Mihoshi sighed; so much for indulging herself a little bit. Still, the Student Committee Chairwoman had a point; she really wasn't supposed to be encouraging this kind of behavior in her classroom.

She put on her sternest face possible as she addressed her problem student. "Miss Ryoko, you may not drink sake in this classroom."

Ayeka folded her arms and smiled. "That's right!"

"If you want to drink sake," Mihoshi continued, "wait until you get home and have some with your dinner, okay?"

"That's not right at all!" Ayeka screamed.

Ryoko grinned and raised her cup again. "Hey, now, there's no need to be so uptight. Why don't you share a drink with me, Miss Mihoshi? We can toast to friendship!"

Mihoshi smiled. "Oh, I'd just love that! That's so very kind of you, Ryoko!"

Ayeka looked like she was about to pull her hair out in aggravation. "Just what in the world is wrong with the two of you? Aaagh!"

At the edge of her vision she saw Heero roll his eyes. "This is going to be a long class…"

She couldn't argue with him there.

….

The warm spring sun beat down as Heero kept his eyes on the student up at bat. He was out in left field, which was his usual position whenever they played baseball during P.E. It wasn't his favorite game, but it definitely beat staying cooped up in Mihoshi's classroom.

His eyes narrowed as the pitcher wound up before throwing the ball as hard as they could. The student at bat swung and landed a solid hit, and the ball went flying out towards Heero's side of the field.

"Get it, Heero!" yelled the third basemen.

Easy for you to say, he thought as he started running back, This one's going to clear the field at this rate…

Sure enough, the ball flew well over Heero and beyond the baseball field itself. It came down in a group of trees and bushes that were still on school grounds, but Heero knew that by the time he retrieved the ball the runner would've made it all the way back to home plate.

"So much for that one," he muttered.

"Heero, what are you doing?" yelled the catcher, "Go get it!"

"What's the point?" he called back, "They'll score before I can get it out of there!"

"Yeah, but we're running low on balls," the catcher replied, "Go see if you can find that one!"

Heero shrugged and headed over to where he'd seen the ball come down. His odds of finding it were pretty low, but he'd at least take a shot at it.

"Okay, then," he muttered as he started ruffling through the bushes, "Where did that thing land?"

It took a couple minutes of searching, but he was eventually able to find the ball. In fact, he actually found two of them, although the second one didn't really look like a baseball.

"What's this?" he said as he picked it up.

He was surprised to see that the 'ball' was actually a lump of bruised skin. Not only that, but it was attached to what appeared to be a dazed and confused creature that was part cat and part rabbit.

"Meow…" the strange creature murmured, raising its front paws to rub its head.

Cradling the creature in his arms, Heero rubbed its head. "I take it this is from our game. Sorry about that."

"Meow," was the creature's reply.

He wasn't sure what the best way to help the mysterious furball was, so he just continued to rub the lump on its head. That seemed to work well enough; the creature appeared to relax, and he could've sworn he heard it start to purr.

"You like that, huh?" he said with a chuckle, "Well, I guess it's the least I can do since you took that hit because of us."

He studied the creature closely. "So, what exactly are you? Would you say cat or rabbit?"

"Meow," said the creature again.

Heero shook his head. "Right, what am I doing, trying to talk to you? If I keep this up, someone will come along and think that I took that ball to the head."

He reached into his pocket. "Actually, I might have something here that'll work a little better than a head rub. Hold on a second…"

He pulled out a handkerchief and got to work. About a minute later he had fashioned it into a makeshift bandage for the creature and had it securely tied to its head.

"There," he said, "How's that?"

Much to his surprise, the furball seemed to be smiling at him. "Meow!"

Heero nodded. "Glad you like it. Now keep that on for a while. The swelling should subside by tomorrow morning."

The creature nodded at him. "Meow."

Heero raised an eyebrow. "Huh. Maybe you really do understand me…"

There was a faint rustling sound behind him, and as he turned around he saw a girl step out from behind a tree and smile. "Ryo-Ohki! There you are!"

"Meow!" cried the creature as it ran over to her.

The girl wasn't a familiar face for Heero. In fact, based on her attire he didn't think she even went to the same school as him, plus she seemed closer to a middle school rather than a high school student. She wore a white shirt with an orange vest, along with a matching orange skirt. Her teal hair was tied into two long tails, and she had bright red eyes.

The creature hopped right into her open arms, and the girl smiled. "So this is where you've been hiding. I've been looking everywhere for you, Ryo-Ohki!"

"Meow, meow!" the furball replied.

The girl leaned forward. "Hey, what's with this handkerchief?"

"That was my doing," said Heero, "Your little friend got hit by a fly ball from our game, so I thought I'd try to help."

The girl bowed and smiled. "Thank you so much for helping her! I really appreciate it."

Heero nodded. "Sure, anytime."

"I'm Sasami," she said, "What's your name?"

"Heero Yuy," he replied, "Nice to meet you."

Sasami looked down at the bump on Ryo-Ohki's head. "Do you think she'll be okay?"

"She'll be fine," said Heero, "Just try to keep her away from baseball fields for awhile… or anywhere else with flying balls, for that matter."

Sasami nodded before turning to her pet. "You hear that, Ryo-Ohki? You're going to be just fine! Say thanks to Heero now, okay?"

The creature gave Heero a smile. "Meow! Meow!"

Heero nodded. "You're welcome."

"You were really lucky to have a guy as nice as Heero come along," Sasami told her pet, "You need to be more careful."

"What are you two doing out here, anyway?" asked Heero, "I've never seen you at this school before."

"Oh, I was just looking for Ryo-Ohki," said Sasami, "She likes to explore."

"Yo, Heero!" called one of his fellow students, "You still alive back there? Did you find the ball?"

Heero sighed before replying. "Yeah, I got it. I'll be out in a second!"

He turned back to the girl. "Sorry, but I've got to go. You should probably get moving too; you don't want to be out here while our game's still going. Your little friend could take another hit to the head if you stay here."

Sasami nodded and smiled. "All right. Thanks again, Heero!"

"Sure," he replied before running off toward the field.

Well, that was unusual, he thought, The girl seems nice enough, but if she's the last curveball this day throws at me I'll very grateful for that…

….

Sasami continued to smile as she watched the young man run off to rejoin his fellow students. She'd been a little worried when she'd seen him find Ryo-Ohki, but it turned out that he was actually a very nice person. In fact, she found herself wishing that he didn't have to leave her so soon; she would very much have liked to spend more time with him.

He looks a little rough on the outside, she thought, but he has a very gentle heart. I hope I get to see him again…

"Sorry, Sasami," said a familiar voice, "I got myself lost again. Sasami? Sasami…"

Sasami looked down at Ryo-Ohki. "Shh! You have to be careful, okay? You can't talk unless we know that there's no one else around! We're not in the Magic Kingdom now, after all. If someone in this world hears you then there could be trouble!"

Ryo-Ohki nodded. "I know, I know. Now, let's go home to the Magic Kingdom, okay?"

Sasami blushed as she thought about Heero again. "Well… actually, I'd kind of like to stay here for a while."

Ryo-Ohki's eyes widened. "What? Why's that?"

Sasami smiled. "It's… kind of hard to explain."

Why do I feel this way?, she thought, I only just met him today, but I don't want to leave here until I see him again…

After all, there's no one like him in the place that I'm from.

….

The school's dismissal bell rang, but Sasami paid it no mind. Perched high up on the roof of the school, she watched as the late afternoon sun slowly crept downward in the sky. It was a very pretty sight, and she was glad that she had picked this spot to spend the rest of the day with Ryo-Ohki while she waited for Heero to finish up his classes.

"Come on, Sasami," said Ryo-Ohki, "How much longer are we going to sit up here? The view's nice, but I'm starting to get hungry and you're out of snacks."

"Just a little while longer," said Sasami.

Ryo-Ohki looked puzzled. "You know, you still haven't told me why you're not ready to go home yet. Are you doing okay?"

Sasami smiled. "I'm fine, silly. I just… I wanted to make a new friend today."

Ryo-Ohki smiled. "You mean Heero, don't you?"

Sasami blushed slightly. "Yeah…"

"He seems like a nice person," said Ryo-Ohki, "but Sasami, you need to think this through. What if he finds out about who you really are? Your mother and father won't be happy about that."

Sasami shook his head. "It won't be like that. I'm not going to tell him about the Magic Kingdom or anything else that we're supposed to keep secret. I just want to get to know him a little more, that's all."

"But what if he's busy?" asked Ryo-Ohki, "He is a student, after all; he's probably got homework he'll have to do later."

Sasami smiled again. "It's okay. I won't take up too much of his time."

"All right," said Ryo-Ohki before looking over the edge of the building, "Well, good luck finding him in the crowd."

Sasami followed her companion's gaze. The students were starting to file out of the building now, and there were quite a few of them. Sasami was a little worried; she liked to think that she could recall Heero's features perfectly, but it would be difficult to pick out someone she had just met amidst the throngs of students pouring out of the school. Although, if she was being honest, the encounter amid the trees was actually not the first time she had seen him; she had actually spotted him by chance when he was on his way to school that morning. Heero had been unaware of her presence, but it had been pretty hard for Sasami to miss him. In fact, she had secretly been hoping for the chance to properly introduce herself to him throughout the day, with the encounter in the trees being her only opportunity to do so.

I wonder if those two girls will be with him again, she thought as she scanned the crowd, I hope they don't mind that I want to spend some time with him.

She sighed as the student's continued to pour out of the building; there was still no sign of the one she was looking for. "Gee, I wonder where Heero is, Ryo-Ohki…"

"We shouldn't spend too much time up here looking for him," said Ryo-Ohki, "If someone looks up here and sees us, it could cause trouble."

Sasami continued to search the crowd. "Now, where is he?"

"Sasami, are you even listening to me?" asked Ryo-Ohki.

Sasami's eyes lit up as she found the young man she was searching for. "Aha! There he is!"

Heero had just walked out of the front door. His bag was slung over his shoulder, and he seemed to be relaxed and relieved that class was finally over for the day. The two girls that Sasami had seen with him earlier that morning were nowhere in sight.

Now's my chance, she thought, I have to get down there right away!

However, before she could move she spotted what could potentially be trouble. Waiting at the front gate of the school was the Student Committee Chairwoman. Sasami couldn't believe that she hadn't spotted her earlier; the girl must've come out with the initial crowd before taking up position by the gate.

"Hello, Heero!" she heard Ayeka say, "Would… would you like to walk home with me today?"

Heero nodded. "Sure, why not?"

Uh oh, thought Sasami, How am I supposed to get close to him when she's with him? What should I do?

To make matters worse, Sasami saw another girl approach Heero. It was Ryoko, and from the look on her face she seemed to be taking issue with Ayeka's plans to have Heero walk her home.

"Wait just a minute!" said Ryoko, her hands on her hips, "Heero, you promised that you would walk home with me today!"

Ayeka's eyes widened. "What? That cannot be true!"

Before Ayeka could react, Ryoko had put her arm around Heero. "Don't you remember, Heero? We promised to watch the night lights of the Grand Bridge of Seto together… and then spend the rest of the night together until morning. Remember, Heero?"

"No, I really don't," Heero replied.

Ayeka scowled and clenched her fist. "Oh, you are the absolute worst, Ryoko! A delinquent through and through!"

Sasami gasped as she saw Ayeka lunge forward, pushing Ryoko and grabbing Heero. "Go away, you foul tramp! Shoo, shoo!"

Ryoko glared at her. "Why don't you take a hike?"

She then smiled and grabbed Heero, pulling him towards her. "Heero is mine tonight! Isn't that right, Heero?"

"I don't recall agreeing to this," Heero quipped dryly.

Ayeka grabbed Heero's arm and pulled him towards her. "I will not stand for this!"

"Too bad, you're gonna have to!" snarled Ryoko as she fought back.

Sasami was horrified to see Heero become the object of their game of tug-of-war. Her new friend didn't exactly seem thrilled at the situation either.

"Cut it out, both of you," he said, "You're both better than this."

Ayeka and Ryoko scowled at each other. Neither seemed to be heeding his words, and Sasami feared that Heero could be seriously hurt if this continued much longer.

She then smiled as she saw two teachers approaching, saving her from having to interfere. Sasami was sure that they would be able to break up the fight, and once that was done she could approach Heero.

"Good grief," said the first teacher with a sigh, a woman with dark blue-green hair, "Really? Right when school gets out? Why now? Why can't they just go home like normal students? I don't want to deal with this."

"Come on, Kiyone," said her companion, a blonde woman with dark skin, "We have to stop them!"

Kiyone sighed. "You're right, Mihoshi. All right; let's do this."

They both stepped forward, with Kiyone taking the lead. "All right, you two, that's enough."

"Let Heero go right now," said Mihoshi.

"I'd expect behavior like this from you, Ryoko," said Kiyone, "but you too, Ayeka? You're the Student Committee Chairwoman. This behavior's absolutely disgraceful for a young lady of your position!"

"I believe in eliminating the source of that disgrace here and now!" replied Ayeka as she glared at Ryoko.

"You're one to talk," quipped Ryoko.

"Ryoko, I shall not surrender Heero to you!" Ayeka declared, "A tramp such as yourself has no right to him. You bring dishonor to the entire school! As Student Committee Chairwoman, it is my solemn duty to protect Heero from your indecency!"

"I can take care of myself," said Heero dryly, "Not that anyone seems to be asking me if I'm capable of that at the moment."

"That's bull!" snapped Ryoko, "I think it's my duty to save Heero from an uptight brat like you!"

"All right, now," said Kiyone as she came up behind Ryoko and grabbed her by the shoulders, "That's enough, Ryoko!"

Ryoko scowled at the teacher. "What did you say?"

"Now, calm down, Ayeka!" pleaded Mihoshi, "That's enough! You have to let go of Heero right now!"

"Not a chance!" Ayeka snarled.

The two girls only pulled harder on Heero in response to the teachers trying to calm them down. The young man looked to be holding up all right, but Sasami was still afraid that he was going to get hurt if this kept up.

"This isn't good…" she said softly.

"He seems to be involved in a fight between those two girls," said Ryo-Ohki, "I hope he's okay…"

"What should we do, Ryo-Ohki?" asked Sasami.

"Well," said Ryo-Ohki, "normally I'd say we should let the teachers handle it, but I don't think they're having any luck down there. We can't let this go on any longer. I don't know Heero very well, but he was nice to me, so I don't want to see him get hurt."

Sasami nodded. "I agree."

Ryo-Ohki smiled. "Well, there's only one thing left to do. Sasami, transform into Pretty Sammy!"

Sasami grinned; she'd been hoping that her furry companion would say that. "Okay, then! Here we go!"

She pulled out an ornate golden baton with a heart at the top and spun around. "Jugem, jugem, gokoh-no-surikire… here comes Pretty Sammy!"

A bring light engulfed her as she transformed into her true form. Large crimson beads appeared at the base of her long twin-tails, while her clothes magically turned into a red, white and pink sailor uniform.

"All right!" she cried, "The magical girl Pretty Sammy is here to save the day!"

The crowd below had remained completely oblivious to her transformation; they were all still focused on the fight between Ayeka and Ryoko. Dozens of students had gathered around to observe the spectacle, and while Sasami would've preferred to avoid performing her magic before so many witnesses she had no choice in the matter. She was determined to save Heero no matter what she had to do.

The two teachers certainly weren't going to do anything to help the young man. In fact, they seemed to have given up trying altogether.

"Oh, my!" said Mihoshi, "We seem to have drawn quite a crowd, haven't we, Kiyone?"

Kiyone groaned. "This is growing more disgraceful by the second! What the hell are we supposed to do?"

"Leave it all to me!" cried Sasami, finally getting the crowd's attention.

She saw Heero look up at her, and she had to fight to keep from blushing as she saw his eyes widen in shock at her appearance. Sasami hoped that she would get the chance to explain things to him very soon; she was throwing all caution to the wind here.

"Fighting is no good at all!" she proclaimed, "Be friends and be cheerful, all of you! That is the first step to making peace with each other! Pretty Sammy's always with a smile on her face, and you should be, too!"

"Who's this weirdo?" asked Ryoko.

"Why is she dressed like that?" asked Ayeka, "And why in the name of the Heavens is she standing up there? Does she not know how incredibly dangerous that is?"

Ryoko smirked at her rival. "She's not as crazy as you are!"

Ayeka scowled at her. "What did you say?"

"Wait just once second," Sasami continued, "and I'll make you two friends in no time!"

The two girls went right back to fighting each other, completely ignoring Sasami again. That was fine with her; she knew they were past the point of words convincing them to mend their ways, which was why she was bringing out the heavy artillery.

"Prepare Pretty Archery!" she cried as she spun her baton.

There was a flash of light at the top of her baton as she held it out in front of her. Two golden prongs sprung forth, along with a string, turning her baton into a magical bow.

"Jugem, jugem, gokoh-no-surikire," she chanted, "Be friends, you two!"

She pulled back on the string and let loose. Two bolts of pink energy flew forth from the bow and raced towards the girls. Since their attention was so focused on each other and Heero they were completely oblivious to what was racing their way, and Sasami's shots easily found their mark.

There was a brilliant flash of light as the pink bolts pierced Ayeka and Ryoko. The gathered teachers and students shielded their eyes while Ayeka and Ryoko collapsed to the ground right on top of Heero. This wasn't quite what Sasami had been going for, but she wasn't afraid; as soon as the magic began to take effect on the girls, Heero would be safe.

"Ryoko! Ayeka!" cried Mihoshi.

"Are you two okay?" asked Kiyone.

Ayeka and Ryoko shook their heads, and from the looks on their faces Sasami knew that her power was working. It would just be a few more seconds before the results became apparent to everyone else.

"Oh… what is this feeling?" gasped Ayeka, "My heart… it's absolutely pounding!"

"Ayeka…" said Ryoko, her voice so soft that Sasami almost couldn't hear it, "I… I'm so sorry. I don't know what came over me. I… I was so cruel to you."

Ayeka smiled and leaned forward, gently taking Ryoko's hands. "No… it's all right. I'm the one who should be sorry, Ryoko. I cannot believe the way I was acting towards you earlier. You didn't deserve that."

Ryoko smiled too. "I feel the same way. I don't know why I was treating you like that. You see, the truth is… I've always been fond of you. I just could never say that to your face for some reason."

Ayeka's face turned beat red. "What? Is that true, Ryoko?"

Ryoko sighed. "Yeah, but… well, you only seemed to care about Heero. I… I got so jealous that I felt I had to throw myself between you two just to get your attention! I acted so shamefully… can you forgive me?"

"Ryoko…" said Ayeka, not bothered in the least by the fact that she was blushing, "Of course I can. I only ask that you forgive my earlier conduct as well. Please?"

Ryoko put her hands on Ayeka's shoulder. "I do, Ayeka."

The crowd looked on in stunned silence as the girls embraced. Sasami smiled as she looked down on it all. It was yet another job well done for Pretty Sammy. Of course, that didn't change the fact that Heero was still trapped underneath Ayeka and Ryoko, but Sasami was confident that the two of them would rectify the situation soon.

"Please," said Ayeka as they held each other, "don't let me go. Not ever."

Ryoko sighed. "You're a real sweetheart, you know that?"

"Uhm, did I miss something here?" asked Kiyone.

"This is getting weird," said Mihoshi, "Are you two okay?"

"I don't know what's going on," said Heero dryly, "but whatever they're doing, can they take it to a room or something? My back's starting to go numb."

"Ahh," said Ryoko blissfully, "So this is what they call true happiness! It's so nice."

"Hold me tight!" cried Ayeka.

"We are blurring some lines here, aren't we?" asked Kiyone, "I'm not sure that this is developing into an appropriate relationship here…"

"They look so happy now!" chirped Mihoshi, "Maybe they won't fight anymore!"

"Seriously," groaned Heero, "My back…"

"Hmm," murmured Sasami, "Maybe I overdid it a little…"

"No, you didn't," said Ryo-Ohki, "They'll be good friends from now on, Sasami, and it's all thanks to you!"

Sasami smiled. "You're right, Ryo-Ohki!"

"I love you, Ayeka," said Ryoko, looking longingly at her former rival.

"I'm so happy to hear you say that, Ryoko," Ayeka replied.

"And there!" said a familiar voice before the whole scene froze.

At the edge of her vision, Sasami saw Washu fiddling with the Dimension Turner. The scientist had a smile on her face as she adjusted the device.

"All right," she said, "That's another world closed off. I think I'm getting better at this; that didn't take nearly as long as the last one did."

"Aw, Washu, why now?" Sasami pouted, "It was just getting good!"

Washu chuckled before nodding at the others down below. "I don't think they would agree with you on that, kid."

Indeed, Sasami could see that Ayeka and Ryoko were not particularly happy about the situation they were in now. Since Washu had frozen Sasami's world, the two of them were stuck in their embrace, and from the looks on their faces Sasami was sure that if they were capable of movement at the moment they would immediately start fighting.

"What the hell?" growled Ryoko, "Washu, whose world was this? What the hell's wrong with them?"

"How in the name of Tsunami did we wind up like this?" cried Ayeka, "This… this is utterly mortifying!"

"I think it's kind of cute," said Mihoshi, "You two really do need to try to get along better, you know?"

"Not like this!" Ayeka and Ryoko barked together.

"Whoever made this world has some very strange ideas about the two of you," said Kiyone.

Maybe I'll keep quiet about this one, Sasami thought, I really don't want them to know that this is my world if they're this angry about it…

"Whose world this is doesn't matter right now," said Heero, "Washu, please tell me we're moving along to the next one now. Seriously, my back could use the reprieve."

"It'll be just another minute," said Washu as she adjusted the Dimension Turner.

"I don't care where we go next," grumbled Ryoko, "Any world has to be better than this one."

"For once, you and I are in agreement," said Ayeka.

"How many more worlds do we have to go through?" asked Mihoshi.

"This was number three, I think," said Kiyone, "Which means we still have three more to go."

"You got that right!" cried Washu as a bright light began to emanate from the Dimension Turner and the world began to spin, "And here comes the next one!"

Preview for next time!

Ryoko: Man, I'm glad that one's over.

Ayeka: Indeed. Let us never speak of that last world again.

Mihoshi: Aw, what's wrong, you two? I think it was fun!

Kiyone: Not the word I'd use for it.

Sasami: So what's up next, Washu?

Washu: Well, we've still got three worlds to go; Mihoshi's, Ryoko's, and Heero's. At this point it's anyone's guess, kid!

Heero: This ride can't end soon enough.

Ryoko: Don't be like that, Heero! Trust me, you're going to love the world I've got planned for us!

Mihoshi: Hey, don't hog all the fun, Ryoko!

Ayeka: I am curious; what sort of world did you come up with, Sir Heero?

Kiyone: That one should definitely be interesting.

Sasami: Well, we'll find out soon enough! Next time, in Chapter Eleven: No Need For Time And Space Adventures, Part Two!

Washu: It's almost time…

Heero: Time for what?

Washu: For what I really wanted to find out with this machine!

Author's Notes: All right, glad that one's finally finished! Again, sorry for the delay on this one, I know it's been a while since the last update.

Hope you liked the chapter. Please review!