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.

29. Chapter 29

Author's Notes: Hello there! So, you may have noticed that I changed the rating for this story to M, along with those of my other stories. Reason for that is I got a message from a reader a while back claiming that the site admins would soon be conducting a purge of stories that don't strictly adhere to the age rating guidelines. Not sure if there's truth to it, but seeing as my writing does at times go up against the line between T and M, possibly even tiptoeing over it on occasion, I decided on bumping the rating up. It's really more of a precaution than anything else, my actual writing style and the sort of content my stories contain isn't going to change. I've always been more of a 'spirit of the law' rather than 'letter of the law' kind of guy, but if the site admins are going through with a content purge I have no way of knowing if said admins share my particular outlook on things such as language or certain kinds of violence. So, the show goes on, just with a different rating for formality's sake and to keep the admins off my back.

Enjoy!

Chapter Twenty-Nine: No Need For A Royal Abduction!

Gathered in one of the Kuramitsu Clan mansion's lounges, in this case a relatively simple yet well-appointed chamber with a self-service bar and a table set near a window that offered a superb view of the gardens, Heero and his fellow former Gundam pilots sat in a very strange sort of silence. Drink glasses were spread around the table, filled with a Seniwan brandy that Mihoshi's mother had assured them was of exceptionally high quality, but none of the young men had so much as touched them yet. Calling the silence awkward would be putting it mildly; with the way his old friends were all looking at him, Heero wasn't sure if they were about to offer sympathy or start laughing in his face. Neither would have surprised him.

No matter how it turns out, Heero thought, they're never going to let me hear the end of this. Least of all Duo…

Sure enough, it was the self-proclaimed God of Death that kicked things off, shaking his head while grinning wickedly at Heero. "Oh, buddy… you've really stepped into it now."

"This wasn't my idea," Heero pointed out, "The proposition was President Moriko's, and what she's offering is exactly what we need."

"I won't deny the clear benefits," Trowa remarked, "We all saw the fleet on the way in. Getting Seniwa behind us militarily will give us a substantial edge when we eventually face Kagato's forces in the field."

"The Seniwa Domain Navy would be one hell of an asset," Quatre concurred as he looked at Heero with concern, "Even so… is this really how you want to handle things, Heero?"

Wufei chuckled. "I don't think it's how Director Une and Sally saw things going out here."

Duo laughed. "No kidding! Lady Une's going to lose her mind when you finally get that report back to her."

"Hard to blame her," Heero deadpanned, "I don't think she had 'marriage alliance with a major galactic power' as one of the objectives for this mission."

Wufei smirked. "At least Sally will get a good laugh out of it."

"She's not the only one," Duo quipped as he eyed Heero with a sly smile, "So, buddy… how's it feel, knowing you'll get to bang galactic nobility? Mihoshi might not be the brightest bulb, but she's definitely a bombshell. I'm almost jealous."

"I could tell Hilde you said that," Heero shot back with a withering glare, "The room you share with her isn't too far from this one."

Duo raised his hands in surrender. "Alright, alright, I'll back off! Jeez, lighten up, Heero."

Heero wasn't in the mood for Duo's bullshit at the moment. The day had been quite busy after Heero and Mihoshi's bombshell announcement, and now that it was evening and things had finally calmed down a bit the former Gundam pilot felt absolutely drained. Heero would've liked nothing more than to go back to his room and just call it a night, but Duo and his fellow former Gundam pilots weren't having it. He figured Hilde would've come along to the private meeting as well, but Duo had said this one was 'for us guys only', and now Heero had an idea as to why the L2 native wanted it that way.

He was looking forward to this ever since Mihoshi and I broke the news, Heero thought, Duo, you really haven't changed a bit.

Quatre leaned forward, elbows propped up on the table and hands clasped beneath his chin. "This plan… it's not a bad one, especially since it gets us support that we really need. Still, it significantly changes the mission going forward."

"Not really," Heero argued, "Our objectives remain the same; stop Kagato and destroy the array."

Quatre sighed. "Yeah, but afterwards… when it's over, you're not coming back to Earth with the rest of us now. You know that, right Heero?"

Heero was quiet for a few seconds. "I could come back briefly to deliver the report with the rest of you. After that, though… well, there's no denying it; my days calling the Earth Sphere home are over."

"Gonna put in your resignation letter for Preventers, then?" Wufei prodded.

"I'll have to," Heero confirmed, "With my new responsibilities, I won't be able to serve Director Une and Sally as an operative."

"Not in the traditional sense," Trowa pushed back, "but I wouldn't be so hasty in resigning, Heero. Your new position makes you a vital diplomatic and intelligence conduit between Preventers, Jurai and Seniwa. Director Une will want to take advantage of that."

Heero understood where Trowa was coming from, yet he couldn't help bristling at the implications. "If I'm going to play a good faith role in this new alliance between Jurai and Seniwa, then I can't be a spy for Earth as well. There's far too much at stake here for me to jeopardize it all with a triple-cross, no matter how much the government back on Earth might desire it. I think Director Une would understand that."

"I don't think she'd ask you to do that, anyway," Quatre pushed back, "Director Une and Sally would understand just how important maintaining this new alliance is, and not only for the sake of galactic peace. You being one of the lynchpins holding it together would generate a ton of goodwill towards humanity from both Jurai and Seniwa. I doubt Director Une would want to place that at risk by having you act as a spy."

Wufei scratched his chin. "I guess in that case you'd be more of a liaison officer… I should've thought of that before."

Duo grinned. "A liaison officer with a cute noble for a wife and a smoking hot pirate for a bodyguard. Talk about a sweet gig!"

Quatre smiled. "I know it's not what you were picturing when we set out on this mission, but you could do a lot worse for outcomes, Heero."

Heero couldn't resist a very small smile as the faces of Mihoshi and Ryoko appeared in his mind. "Yeah… I really could."

"Man, I can't wait for this whole Kagato mess to be over so we can get to the wedding," Duo said, "That's going to be one hell of a party!"

"The ESUN will want to have a delegation present," Trowa noted, "but Earth doesn't have any ships capable of making lightspeed jumps."

"Not yet, anyway," said Wufei, "I know Director Une has the top researchers in Preventer hard at work reverse-engineering the technology aboard the ship Mihoshi crashed on Earth. Give it enough time, and they'll figure it out."

"We could jumpstart progress with a technology sharing agreement," Quatre pointed out, "I'm sure Seniwa would be open to such negotiations with Earth once things have calmed down. After all, Heero's helping President Moriko achieve a major diplomatic policy victory with Jurai; she'd only be enhancing her profile further by turning around and securing agreements with Earth."

"Until that happens, Seniwa can always send a ship out to Earth to give the government's party a lift to the wedding," Duo chimed in.

"President Moriko strikes me as someone who would be amenable to that," Trowa nodded.

Wufei smiled. "It would be quite an occasion. An ESUN delegation arriving at the capital of a major galactic power to witness a wedding… that's one for the history books. Well, humanity's history books, anyway."

Heero saw Quatre wince. "Maybe, but… one of the delegation's likely members could make things awkward."

"Right," Duo groaned before looking at Heero, "Buddy… this whole business with your alien lady friends… does Relena know about it?"

Heero shook his head. "Preventer has worked to keep the matter classified and contained. We've kept almost everyone else in the dark, including the vast majority of the Foreign Ministry."

Duo sighed. "Which means Relena definitely doesn't know. Well… that's going to be a problem."

"It would only be natural for the Vice-Foreign Minister to be part of the delegation," Trowa remarked, "Relena's presence at an event like this is highly probable."

"It's not going to be the issue that you guys are making it out to be," Heero pushed back, "Relena and I… we reached an understanding after the war and the Mariemaia incident. You all should give her more credit; I think she'll surprise you with how she ultimately handles this."

Duo raised an eyebrow. "You sure about that, buddy?"

Heero firmly nodded. "I am. Trust her, Duo. I do, and so should the rest of you."

Duo looked at him for a moment before shrugging. "Whatever you say, buddy. Guess we'll see how she reacts when the time comes. Hopefully she'll live up to your expectations."

"She will," Heero assured him, "She's never let me down before."

Quatre smiled. "If your faith in Relena's that strong, then the rest of us should give her the benefit of the doubt. Of course, all this talk is rather premature; the wedding itself isn't happening until after we've defeated Kagato and destroyed the Judgment Array. We're just in the engagement phase now."

"And what a phase it'll be," Wufei remarked, "Sounds like President Moriko has quite the whirlwind tour laid out for the next few days. We'll be busy."

Trowa was sympathetic. "You and Mihoshi are going to be on display for all of Seniwa to see. The press already got their first taste of you earlier today, and they'll only want more. Are you up for that?"

"It's the mission," Heero replied, "All I can do is go along with it."

Duo grinned. "With your lovely fiancé by your side… and your pretty pirate bodyguard right behind you!"

Heero let slip a small smile as Mihoshi and Ryoko both appeared in his mind. The road ahead was going to be a challenging one, but walking it with the two of them by his side and the rest of his friends backing him up would make it more than bearable.

….

March 31st, A.C. 199

"Quite the view," Heero remarked as he stared through the wide viewport at the massive dock below.

Mihoshi smiled as she followed Heero's gaze, watching in fascination as drones and small worker craft floated around the battleship occupying the berth. Tiny showers of sparks flew from dozens of separate points along the sleek 3.7-kilometer-long warship as the miniscule maintenance automata and vessels went about the business of servicing the artificial predator so that she might prowl the space lanes in search of prey once more. Resembling a triangle with gracefully curving lines rather than sharp angles, the gleaming grey Taiyō dwarfed everything around her except the World Ring she now sat comfortably in.

Hopefully the work on her will be done soon so she can help us at the third repository, Mihoshi thought, I know that we're going to need all the firepower that we can get.

"I always feel so small when I come up here," said Mihoshi, "It can be pretty intimidating sometimes. Still, seeing work like this up close… it makes me feel proud, knowing that my family commissioned the World Ring to serve Seniwa."

Heero nodded. "Jurai has its Royal Trees and the power they provide, and Seniwa has the industrial might of the World Ring. With such marvels, it's no wonder that both became major powers on the galactic stage. I'm glad that the fruits of the World Ring's production capabilities are on our side now."

"Definitely," Mihoshi concurred, "and I'm glad that I get to show it to you up close now. I didn't think my great-grandmother could get this tour set up so quickly."

"I appreciate that she did," said Heero, "Given all that's going on, I didn't think we'd really have any time for sightseeing. It was nice of her to give us a chance for this in the middle of our busy schedule. I hope the others are enjoying themselves."

"I think they are," Mihoshi reassured him as she pressed her face to the viewport, peering to the left in an effort to catch a glimpse of their friends in the neighboring room.

Strictly speaking, the tour wasn't just for her and Heero; all of their companions and friends had been invited as well. However, Moriko had made sure that Mihoshi and Heero were separated from the group at every opportunity, no doubt as an effort to encourage further bonding between the bride and groom-to-be. Mihoshi was certainly grateful for that, and from what she could see it seemed that Heero didn't mind either, though she was worried about how Ryoko would react.

In fact, Mihoshi could actually see Ryoko in the room next to theirs. The pirate likewise had her face pressed up against the window, and she was looking in the direction of Mihoshi and Heero. Mihoshi expected a scowl or glare from the pirate; it was more than understandable for Ryoko to be jealous, after all. Yet, she didn't get either of those things from Ryoko. Instead, Heero's Royal Guard simply looked at her for a moment before nodding, and she even smiled, although the gesture did seem a bit strained.

It was a welcome surprise, and Mihoshi returned the gesture with a smile and friendly wave. In truth, she'd been quite relieved by Ryoko's behavior ever since the announcement of her impending marriage to Heero. Granted, it helped that all three of them had gotten together prior to breaking the news to the others so that they could talk things over, and Ryoko had seemed relatively calm if somewhat tense during that conversation, making clear that she would support Mihoshi and Heero even if she was not exactly thrilled with the arrangement. Mihoshi had expected Ryoko's behavior to deteriorate, for the pirate to glower at her and perhaps make a spiteful remark or two, but she'd done no such thing. Sure, she was probably trying to be on her best behavior for Heero's sake, but Mihoshi thought that there was more to it.

It's like she's really trying to be friends with me now, Mihoshi thought, I mean, we've been friends since Heero took us all in, but this is new. Even though she loves him, she's still giving us both space. She really wants this to work out for all of us.

Mihoshi vowed to find Ryoko later and thank her. More importantly, she wanted to make sure that she showed Ryoko and Heero the same level of consideration that Ryoko was showing them right now. Mihoshi currently had a monopoly on Heero's time thanks to the newly announced marriage and her great-grandmother's insistence on them spending more time together, and she was profoundly grateful for that, but she was also keenly aware of the toes that she was stepping on. If the three of them were really going to make this work in the long-term, then they had to find some kind of balance.

Mihoshi was so caught up in her own thoughts that she almost didn't notice Heero turn away from the warship to face her. "How are you holding up?"

Mihoshi blinked a few times in confusion. "What do you mean?"

"With all this… with us," Heero replied, looking at her with clear concern, "It was only yesterday that our engagement was made public, and now President Moriko essentially has us on tour. Neither of us have really had much time to really let it sink in."

It was certainly true that they'd been busy since the announcement, and that business had involved a great deal of public spotlight in a very short amount of time. In between moments that Moriko had engineered to get Heero and Mihoshi alone together, she had also started putting them on parade. The two of them might now have a moment of privacy overlooking the Taiyō, but their arrival aboard the World Ring in the first place had been anything but private. They'd arrived in one of the Kuramitsu Clan's luxurious space yachts, and their welcoming committee had consisted of the World Ring's overseeing board of directors along with a great many workers who had been brought out to cheer and smile for the cameras when the bride and groom-to-be had stepped off the ship. Mihoshi might have been naïve in many aspects, but even she could spot forced attendance; after all, Galaxy Police ceremonies put on for visiting dignitaries had much the same flavor to them. Even she and Kiyone had been compelled by their superiors to attend such occasions, albeit in a manner that kept them towards the back of the crowd and therefore away from anything that Mihoshi could potentially mess up. Mihoshi felt uneasy at the fact that her simply visiting the World Ring had put that imposition on humble workers, even if she was not the one who had ordered them to attend.

At least we still got paid for the time we had to attend those ceremonies, Mihoshi mused, I hope those workers weren't forced to attend on their off time. Otherwise… well, that probably wouldn't give them a very good impression of us.

The World Ring was only their most recent stop in a packed day. They'd already put in an appearance at Seniwa City's main governing district, trotted out in front of the central administrative complex for journalists to take plenty of pictures. After that had come a visit to Jurai's embassy in in the capital, with the Empire's local ambassador making a very public show of greeting them and bowing to not only First Empress Funaho and the princesses, but Heero as well. Mihoshi could not help but notice that the ambassador's gesture of deference to the young prince had seemed a bit stiff, as if the man did not fully accept that Heero was indeed a member of the Royal Family. It was a reminder to Mihoshi that she wasn't the only one struggling to adapt to a new role here; her new fiancé had more than his share of hurdles to overcome.

Mihoshi took a deep breath; as much as she might have wanted to put on a strong front, she knew that Heero valued honesty over bravado. "I… I don't know. It feels weird. Not that you're making it weird, I mean, because you're not! It's just… I… oh, I don't know what I'm trying to say…"

Her shoulders slumped as she stared at the floor, certain that she'd just made things worse. Here was Heero, genuinely worried about her, and what was Mihoshi doing? Just making things even more awkward than they already were. About par for the course when she thought about it, really.

She found herself pleasantly surprised when Heero reached over to take her hand. "It's alright, Mihoshi. I think I understand what you're getting at. It still doesn't feel real, does it?"

Mihoshi smiled, relieved that Heero could put into words what she could not. "Yeah… I think that's it. Part of me feels like this is all some strange dream, and that I'll wake up back at the palace on Jurai, or maybe even that house we shared back on Earth."

Heero slowly nodded. "I can relate. Somedays, it feels like my life's become an absurd dream. Ever since we met, really."

She then saw a very small smile creep onto his face as he met her gaze. "An absurd dream… but not a bad one. Quite the opposite, in fact. It's just had quite a few more twists and turns than I can easily adjust to."

Mihoshi squeezed his hand. "That sounds about right. I think we just need more time. Wish we could take things slower. This tour that my great-grandmother's had us on… it's only just starting."

"We definitely still have a busy schedule ahead of us," Heero concurred, "but at least we'll get to end the day back at the mansion. I wouldn't mind a soak at the hot springs once things settle down for the evening."

Mihoshi felt a surge of heat rush to her face as she imagined Heero sitting in the water, his lean yet athletic frame on full display save for a towel at his waste… and how easy it would be for her to slip that towel aside 'accidentally'. Was this how Ryoko felt around him? Eying him hungrily, waiting for an opportunity to sample the goods? It certainly wasn't an unpleasant feeling as far as Mihoshi was concerned.

Still, Mihoshi didn't want to be too greedy here; long-term, she would have to share Heero with his new Royal Guard, after all. "Uhm… there's more hot springs in the back than just the big one we all shared before. There are private ones, too. Maybe we could share one tonight? You, me, and Ryoko? Just… the three of us?"

She saw Heero's eyes widen slightly, and Mihoshi momentarily feared that she'd perhaps taken a step too far, but her worries dissipated when her companion smiled again. "You know… I'd like that. I'll run it by Ryoko, later. The three of us really should start taking some time for… well, the three of us."

Mihoshi smiled as well, and it grew as a good idea popped into her head. "Oh, and after that, I've got something that you and her could do together! I think she'd really appreciate having a bit of time with just the two of you since you and I have had some alone time today."

Heero inclined his head. "That's very thoughtful of you, Mihoshi. Any suggestions you have, I'd be grateful for them… and I'm sure Ryoko would, too. Knowing that you're thinking of her happiness alongside yours and mine will sooth her feelings about all of this, at least a little bit."

Emboldened, Mihoshi leaned forward and stole a quick kiss from her fiancé. "Consider it my gift to the two of you!"

"I will," Heero replied as Mihoshi suddenly felt his hand on her back gently nudging her towards him, "and I'll make sure she knows it."

Before Mihoshi could react, her lips once again met Heero's, this time with the young prince taking the lead. Unlike the quick peck she'd given him before, Heero held her close so that the kiss would linger just a little longer. When they eventually pulled apart, Mihoshi's face felt hotter than the sun. A quick glance at her reflection in the viewport indeed showed that she was blushing fiercely, yet Mihoshi's smile only grew as her gaze turned back to Heero and saw that those beautiful deep blue eyes of his were focused on her alone.

"We'll figure out a way to make this all work out," Heero reassured her, "Together."

Mihoshi beamed as she threw her arms around her betrothed and held him as tight as she could. "Yes… together!"

….

Definitely glad that we took Mihoshi up on this, thought Heero as he rested his back against the wall of finely-cut stones that made up the outline of the hot spring, I really needed a good soak after how busy today was, and I know I'm not alone there.

Glancing to his right, he saw Ryoko reach back to grab a bottle of wine that had been set out by one of the servants while they'd been getting changed, and she smiled as she held up both it and one of the glasses sitting alongside it. "This looks like the good stuff! Want some?"

Heero nodded, trying very hard to ignore the fact that Ryoko's movement had resulted in her towel sliding down to the point that it almost revealed her breasts. "Sure, thanks."

Ryoko then leaned around Heero to look at their other bathing companion. "How about you, Mihoshi?"

Pressed against Heero's left, her towel just barely concealing her amble bosom, Mihoshi returned Ryoko's smile. "Thank you!"

As the pirate poured wine for the three of them, Heero looked around the bath, still having a hard time believing his current situation. Here he was, tucked away in a private bath on a distant world, with two incredibly beautiful women clad in nothing more than towels sidled up on his flanks. It felt like a very surreal dream, though hardly an unpleasant one.

Would love to see the look on Duo's face if he caught a glimpse of this, Heero mused, followed by Hilde no doubt punishing him for it….

He could already imagine his fellow former Gundam pilot's reaction, in no small part because Duo had been giving him no end of grief ever since the marriage announcement. Thankfully, Hilde was always on the ball, reining him in quite quickly, but Duo could really be relentless about this sort of thing. Then again, Heero would've been concerned if Duo hadn't been teasing him about his current circumstances. If nothing else, it meant that the self-proclaimed God of Death's sense of humor was still alive and kicking, which indicated his spirits were high. That was a good measure of morale; the moment Duo stopped cracking wise was when things got grim indeed.

"Hey, Heero?" Ryoko chimed in as she poked his shoulder, "You still with us?"

"Everything okay, Heero?" Mihoshi chirped.

Heero blinked a few times, belatedly realizing that he had zoned out a bit. "Oh… yeah, I am. Sorry."

Ryoko smiled as she passed him a glass. "Don't worry about it. Hot spring after a busy day? I could just about pass out in here."

"Not before our toast, though!" Mihoshi protested.

Heero smiled reassuringly. "Of course. What are we drinking to?"

Ryoko leaned over to kiss him on the right cheek. "Do we need a reason? How about just to being alive and one step ahead of Kagato?"

"And to my family agreeing to help us," Mihoshi added as she mirrored Ryoko by kissing Heero on the left cheek, batting her eyelashes as she blushed, "and to you… just for being you."

That addendum put Heero on the spot, and he wasn't sure how to react. "I… I don't think that's necessary…"

"No, I'm with Mihoshi on this one," Ryoko countered as she raised her glass, "Just like I'm with you… both of you… now and forever."

Heero looked back and forth between the two gorgeous women at his sides, only able to marvel at how he'd gotten so lucky. A fierce, powerful, and lovely pirate on his right, and a sweet, clumsy yet hard working and pretty cop on his left…

…and, if all went well, he'd eventually be marrying them both.

Definitely not what I saw coming when we started this mission, he thought with a small smile, but I'm not going to complain.

"To the three of us, then," he said as he raised his glass, "To our survival, and our future."

"To us!" Mihoshi cheered.

"To us!" Ryoko proclaimed.

The three glasses came together for in a clinking sound before their holders imbibed. Heero had only very rarely partaken in wine, and whatever Mihoshi's family had supplied them for tonight was rich indeed. He would normally take it slow, but with how enthusiastically his two beautiful companions were downing their glasses, he couldn't help but get caught up in the moment.

Act on your emotions, he reminded himself as he savored both the drink and the incredible women he was sharing it with, so you can live a good life… and give a good life to Ryoko and Mihoshi.

Ryoko licked her lips as she set the glass down. "Damn, that is good!"

"Glad you like it," chirped Mihoshi, "It's from my family's private vineyard in the south."

Heero raised an eyebrow. "You family has a vineyard on this world? The climate's a little extreme for that, isn't it?"

"Uhm, hello?" Ryoko interjected as she gestured at the distant ceiling of the dome overhead, "They've got the climate beat here, remember?"

Heero sighed in embarrassment; how the hell had he forgotten that? "Right… slipped my mind. Still getting used to this whole 'domed city' with climate control on a frozen world idea. With what humanity's been able to accomplish in our space colonies, I really shouldn't be so surprised by what Seniwa can do since they're more technologically advanced than us."

Ryoko smiled before picking up her wine glass again and taking another sip. "Hey, ease up on yourself. We've all got a lot of crap on our minds right now. No one's expecting perfection, Heero."

"That's why you've got us!" Mihoshi chirped, "Whenever you make a mistake, we'll be here to help."

Heero smiled as he looked at them both again. "That's true. I'll be counting on both of you for that going forward."

"I know that I haven't really been reliable before now," Mihoshi muttered as she sheepishly lowered her head so that her chin was touching the water, "I'll… I'll try not to mess up too badly."

"Hey, what kind of talk is that?" Ryoko chided her, "Just give it your all like I do, Mihoshi! Follow your gut. It's worked out pretty well for me so far."

"Ryoko's right," said Heero as he put his arm around Mihoshi, "Trust your instincts, keep a cool head, and give whatever task you have your best effort. You're more capable than you give yourself credit for, Mihoshi. I know that I'm not the only one who thinks that."

Mihoshi looked up at both him and Ryoko. "Really?"

Heero nodded before glancing at Ryoko. "Of course."

Ryoko grinned. "You're a klutz, Mihoshi, but you've got heart… and you're not as big of a klutz as you were back when we first met! You're doing better all the time. We all are. Look at me; I went from lazy pirate to Heero's Royal Guard. I've grown, and so have you. We both just need to keep that up!"

Mihoshi raised herself back up, her bright blue eyes filled with renewed confidence. "You're right. I'll keep working hard, and I won't let you down!"

"That's the spirit!" Ryoko cheered as she downed the rest of her glass and went straight for a refill, "Come on, another toast! Who's with me?"

"I suppose I am," said Heero.

"Me, too," Mihoshi chimed in, "Uhm… what for, though?"

Ryoko blinked. "Oh, uhm… good question. Can't actually think of one now. Hey, Heero? Help a girl out here?"

Heero smiled as he met Ryoko's gaze first, then Mihoshi's, before raising his glass. "I have one. To the two of you… to the light that you've both brought into my life… and to the time I want us to have together, both now and when this is all over."

Both women glanced at each other before smiling and pressing their glasses to Heero's, along with their bodies against his. Savoring their drinks before setting the glasses down, the three of them then just held each other as they sat back in the bath, the rest of the universe and all the worries that came with it banished for a precious little while.

….

"You know, if you just point it out, I can fly us to this 'special spot' of Mihoshi's," Ryoko remarked as she walked hand-in-hand with Heer along one of the trails behind the Kuramitsu Clan's mansion, "It'd be a lot faster than this."

Heero shook his head. "Two points against that. First, we're both still a bit tipsy from that wine, so I don't think that flying would be a very good idea right now. Second is this; I had plenty of moments alone with Mihoshi today, but none with you. I want to make up for that, and Mihoshi wanted to help me with it."

Ryoko smiled, a bit of heat rushing to her face as she looked at Heero and squeezed his hand. "Well, when you put it that way… this is nice. Nice of her, too. Mihoshi… I'd be lying if I said that I'm not jealous of her, especially with all that she got you to herself today. Still… I can't bring myself to get mad at her. Not when she turns around and does something like this for us."

Strictly speaking, Ryoko still did not know exactly what Mihoshi had done for her and Heero yet. All she knew was that, after the bath and making sure that a very tipsy Mihoshi had gotten herself safely to bed, Heero had asked her to get changed and meet her out on the mansion's back patio. When she'd done so, he told her that he wanted to take her somewhere special that Mihoshi had pointed out to him, a place that she thought the two of them should share. So, they'd set off on their walk, enjoying this chance to just be by themselves at the end of a hectic day and with likely plenty more hectic days ahead of them.

Heero took a deep breath. "I'm sorry about earlier today. I know that, with this whole publicity blitz and engagement, I'm expected to spend a lot more time with Mihoshi now, and that we had to exclude you for much of it even though you're my Royal Guard. I wanted to find some way to make it up to you, and Mihoshi was willing to help. I promise, I'll find some way to balance things between the two of you. Right now, I just…"

"Hey," Ryoko whispered as she brought them both to a halt before gently pressing a finger to his lips, "stop that, Heero. It's alright. Really, I mean that. None of us asked for this situation, least of all you, and we're all still trying to adjust to… well, our new reality. There'll be plenty of hiccups for us to deal with. Still, I want to make this work. You're not the only one looking for a new balance here; I am, too. So is Mihoshi. We'll all find it together, so don't go feeling like you have to shoulder the responsibility for it by yourself."

She was relieved to see Heero relax at her reassurance. "Yeah… we will. Thanks for that, Ryoko. I keep telling myself that I need to do everything I can for the two of you… and I keep forgetting something very simple. We're all sharing this path together, which means that I shouldn't be trying to take care of everything on my own. That might be a tricky habit to break."

"Well, that's what you've got me for," Ryoko replied as she quickly pecked him on the cheek, "You need someone around who can knock sense into you every once in a while, right?"

Heero smiled and caught Ryoko by surprise as he put his hands on her hips and pulled her in for a kiss, this time a lingering one, before he spoke again. "I definitely do, and you have no idea how grateful I am that it's you."

Ryoko felt a surge of heat in her face, but that didn't stop her from returning his smile. "Heero… you really do know how to make a girl special. You always lay it on thick for the ladies like this?"

Heero chuckled. "Only for the outlaws among them."

"Hey, that's former outlaw," Ryoko reminded him with a smirk, "I've been pardoned now, remember?"

"Right," Heero answered with a knowing look, "but I don't think that the pirate's been taken out of you that easily. At least, I hope she hasn't."

Ryoko batted her eyelashes at him. "Oh, really? Why's that?"

"Because she's part of what makes you so much fun to be around," Heero remarked before putting his arm around her and gently nudging her forward.

Ryoko sighed contentedly as she leaned against him while they continued their stroll. "You really are a sweetheart at the end of the day. Don't ever lose that, okay? I love that about you… along with everything else."

"I won't," he assured her, "my love."

Ryoko's cheeks flushed deep red at that. That the two of them could say that word to each other openly now, at least when they were alone together… it meant the world to her, even if it still took a bit of getting used to. She really should not have needed any further confirmation of how Heero truly felt about her at this point, but that he would still say it to her in private moments like this, and she could say it back knowing that it wouldn't scare him off or somehow change their relationship gave her a sense of security that Ryoko never realized she'd needed. That certainty and confidence in their mutual feelings was all the more important in light of the fact that Ryoko now had to share Heero with another woman.

Wanting a distraction from how hot her face was becoming, Ryoko pointedly turned her gaze towards the flora that surrounded the couple. Though it was night, illumination was provided through a combination of lights placed along the path and several specimens of bioluminescent plants, and the later were quite easy to become distracted with. The treetop canopy prevented them from being seen all the way back at the mansion, but on the trail that Ryoko and Heero walked now they had a front row seat to a beautiful display. On both sides, flowers were in bloom that glowed bright green, deep blue, and vibrant shades of purple. When the visual effects were combined with the various chirps and songs of insects that served as the plants' pollinators, the result was an utterly riveting show.

"I really should thank Mihoshi later," Ryoko remarked as she looked around, "The gardens back on Jurai were pretty and all, but they were a bit too… orderly for my tastes. The Kuramitsus' tastes are much more my speed; these grounds feel much more natural than the palace gardens, you know?"

"Ironic, considering that this is only possible within an artificial environment," Heero pointed out as he gestured at the distant ceiling of the dome overhead.

"That's true," Ryoko conceded, "Even so, being out here… it's got a much wilder vibe to it, you know? The gardens on Jurai were all so organized, but Mihoshi's family just seems to let the plants and creatures do whatever they want."

"That's an interesting way to put it," said Heero as he took in the glowing flora, "I suppose both approaches have their virtues. As beautiful as all this is, though, it's not what Mihoshi wanted me to show you. Well, not all of it, at least."

"So you say," Ryoko replied, "How much further do we need to go?"

"The spot she wanted us to visit is at the top of this hill," Heero answered, "At the rate we're going, it shouldn't take too much longer."

Ryoko sighed. "I still think you should've let me fly us up there. Oh, well. At least we're getting in some exercise."

Heero chuckled. "Because we clearly don't get enough of that between our training and actual combat, right?"

Ryoko couldn't help but laugh. "Yeah, you've got a point! For all the trouble we've gotten into, it's at least keeping us fit! Silver lining, right?"

Heero nodded. "That it is."

As they continued their walk, Ryoko noticed that the incline of the trail was becoming gradually steeper. The path began to wind around in a broad arc, and the vegetation slowly started to thin out. After a few more minutes, they came to the summit…

…and what Ryoko saw took her breath away.

The gradual arc of the path had turned them around so that, when they'd reached the hilltop, the couple was now facing the Kuramitsu Clan estate and the capital city beyond it. The vegetation had been trimmed down at this spot to offer those who made the trek a reward in the form of a fantastic view. While the estate was pretty enough from this angle, what really drew Ryoko's attention was the city beyond. With the domed city now firmly in the grips of night, the great towers of the financial district at Seniwa City's heart were fully lit up, appearing in Ryoko's eyes as nothing less than massive pillars of light. Much of the lighting came from the unfortunate grunts stuck working late inside the citadels of business, but a good chunk of the structures' exteriors were covered in glowing advertisements and logos. Some were from companies that Ryoko recognized, while others were not, but the effect was spectacular regardless. The holographs splashing along the skyscrapers were a riot of colors, ranging from various hues of blue, green and purple to much brighter red, orange, and yellow. In addition to the towers themselves, Ryoko could spot pinpricks of light moving along the streets sprawled out along the outskirts leading into the city's heart, a steady stream of hover vehicles moving to and from the capital's interior. Looking up, Ryoko saw the lights of the buildings and vehicles alike mirrored in the distant ceiling of the dome itself.

"Hot damn…" she murmured, "That… that's really something."

"You're not wrong," Heero remarked, "I can see now why Mihoshi said I should wait until nightfall before bringing you up here. The view wouldn't be this spectacular during the day."

Ryoko smiled. "Yeah. Mihoshi… she really did put a lot of thought into this. She did it for the two of us, too… damn it. She knows what she's doing, I'll give her that."

Heero raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"

"She knows me," Ryoko explained as her smile grew, "A lot better than I'd given her credit for, too. I know I said that I was cool with you marrying her, especially since I'll eventually get to marry you as well, but even so… it hasn't been easy, getting used to the idea of sharing you with Mihoshi. Still isn't, really. I think she recognized that, which is why she told you to bring me here. Knowing that she wants you and me to be happy together just as much as you and her, or all three of us… it's pretty damn hard for me to be mad or jealous of her when she sets us up for something like this."

"How's that old expression go?" Heero mused aloud with a smirk, "Kill them with kindness? Though the word 'kill' hardly seems appropriate whenever the context involves Mihoshi."

Ryoko chuckled. "Yeah, she's way too sweet for that. Still, I get the gist of it, and it definitely fits with her."

She saw Heero look down for a moment, appearing rather nervous. "Ryoko… I know you said that you're willing to go along with all this, and I'm incredibly grateful for that. Even so, if… if you're ever feeling like… like it's too much to deal with, or if Mihoshi and I do something that hurts you… please, tell me, okay? The last thing I want is to cause you any kind of pain. I know that some discomfort or unease is inevitable here, even jealousy, and that's perfectly natural. Still, I swear to you that I'll never do anything to intentionally hurt you. Neither will Mihoshi. You know us both, after all."

"I do," Ryoko replied softly as she pulled Heero into a loving embrace before planting her lips tenderly on his, "In return, I want you to promise me something."

"Anything," Heero immediately answered.

Ryoko reached up to run her fingers through Heero's hair, enraptured by the reflection of the distant lights in his eyes. "If I ever start snapping at you and Mihoshi, or giving you two the cold shoulder… call me out on it, alright? I know you keep telling me that I've grown, and I believe that, but I still know me, Heero. I'm an emotional and impulsive woman, and I've definitely got a jealous streak. I'm trying to work on that, I promise. Still… I'm not perfect. I never will be."

"And I wouldn't want you to be," Heero reassured her with a smile, "I fell for you because you're an emotional and impulsive woman, Ryoko, and I wouldn't have you any other way. I knew what I was getting myself into here, and my feelings haven't changed a bit. If you cross a line, I'll definitely call it out, and we'll work it out together."

Ryoko leaned forward to press her forehead against Heero's, smiling as she lowered her hand to caress his cheek. "We will. That's a promise."

The two of them gazed at each other for a long moment before returning their attention to the view of Seniwa City. They stood atop the hill for a long time, continuing to hold each other all the while. They knew that there would be plenty of struggle ahead, but right now, they had this precious moment to just be together and not have to worry about what the universe would throw at them next.

And that was all they wanted.

….

April 1st, A.C. 199

It had been no small surprise for Ayeka to find Heero knocking at her door that morning. When she'd answered, her fellow Juraian Royal had invited her to share morning tea with him in the Kuramitsu estate gardens. Of course, Ayeka had immediately cottoned onto what was left unsaid; Heero obviously wanted to talk to her in private. Given the surprising events of the past few days, Ayeka supposed that she and him were overdue for a serious conversation.

Lord Heero is a very observant young man, she reminded herself as she made her way downstairs, and with the way you reacted to the announcement of his engagement to Mihoshi… the way you've been acting since then… well, he was always going to pick up on your distress.

To say that Ayeka's feelings were something of a mess at the moment would be putting it mildly. On the one hand, part of her fully understood why Heero had accepted President Moriko's proposal. She was Jurai's Crown Princess, and life in the royal court meant that she was no stranger to the concept of marriage alliances. With what President Moriko was offering their side, taking Mihoshi's hand in marriage truly was a small price to pay, especially considering the nature of their opposition and what Kagato was after. Military might beyond forces loyal to the Juraian Royal Family would go a long way towards stopping Kagato from seizing the Judgement Array, and with the fate of the entire galaxy hanging in the balance, Heero would be foolish to turn down the sort of firepower that Seniwa could bring to the table. Looking at it from a purely transactional perspective, the right choice was a no-brainer.

But, of course, Ayeka could not view the situation as purely a transaction, regardless of what her upbringing had taught her. After all, this was the young man that she had pined for vowing to take another woman as his wife. Just as Ayeka had thought she was truly coming to terms with Heero having chosen Ryoko as his lover rather than her, now she was confronted with the fact that another woman would be sharing his bed. Sure, nothing explicit had been said as to that part of Heero's impending marriage to Mihoshi, but Ayeka was hardly naïve. President Moriko and the wider Kuramitsu Clan would want more from the marriage than just stronger cultural or security ties between Seniwa and Jurai; they would want a more physical fruit from that union, one that could serve as a guarantor of those ties for the future. That very much meant an heir, and Ayeka did not need the talk about the birds and the bees to know how that was to be accomplished, thank you very much.

Oh, what a cruel fate this is, she thought as she sat down across the low table from the man who could still exert such a strong pull on her heart without even trying, Lord Heero… I understand why you're doing this, and I truly do wish to support you… but I would be lying if I said that I did not have misgivings…

…or regrets.

Settling in on the other side while a servant brought over a fresh pot of tea and cups, Heero inclined his head towards Ayeka. "Thank you for coming here. I'm sorry if my request earlier was a little sudden."

Ayeka smiled and shook her head. "Oh, it's quite alright, Lord Heero. I was planning on grabbing some early refreshment to start the day, so your timing was perfect."

She then gestured at the space around them. "Besides, you picked a most pleasant spot for it. Far better than my original plan to simply drink inside the mansion."

She wasn't lying. When Heero had extended the invitation, the spot he had chosen was a gazebo situated down a short path behind the mansion. The structure sat upon a small artificial hill ringed with terraces and accessible by a stone staircase, allowing its occupants an excellent view of the wider estate grounds. The chirping of birds made for wonderful background noise, and a refreshingly cool yet gentle breeze wafted through the gazebo.

"This estate has all sorts of pleasant spots tucked away, both inside and outside," Heero remarked as he poured tea for them both, "It would be a shame not to take advantage of them all while we're here."

Ayeka nodded as she raised her cup and took a test sip. "You're quite right about that."

The two of them enjoyed their tea in silence for a couple of minutes before Heero set his cup down and met Ayeka's gaze. "Ayeka… how are you holding up?"

Ayeka blinked in confusion. "I beg your pardon, Lord Heero?"

Heero took a deep breath, and now Ayeka could see the concern in his eyes. "These past few days… haven't been easy for you, have they?"

Ayeka closed her eyes for a few seconds and inhaled deeply to steady herself before meeting Heero's gaze again. "Lord Heero… if this conversation is about to go in the direction that I suspect it will… will you permit me to say something first?"

Heero inclined his head, the gesture seeming almost apologetic. "Of course."

Ayeka sighed. "In the meeting… when the engagement was announced… you made it abundantly clear that you had no knowledge of it prior to our arrival on Seniwa. My… my personal feelings aside, Lord Heero… I want you to know that I understand the choice you made... and that I do not hold you responsible for this situation. The stage was set well before any of us were aware of it, and you reacted as a responsible Juraian Royal would. Your decision was one made under very difficult circumstances, and I believe you acted in the manner that you thought would best help us all. You… did the best that you could, and… regardless of my own misgivings… I am proud of you, Lord Heero."

Heero's eyes widened slightly; he clearly had not been expecting that last bit. "Proud?"

Ayeka smiled, and the gesture truly was genuine. "Yes. I know that you've been hesitant up until this point in taking on the responsibilities associated with being a prince of Jurai, and I understand that completely. You didn't even know that you were a member of the Royal Family until quite recently, so your reluctance to jump into such a role is quite natural. The fact that you've taken such a bold decision shows, at least in my eyes, that you're now truly embracing your new identity as an Imperial Prince. You've taken a major step into a very daunting world, Lord Heero, and I am honored to see you take your rightful place in the Royal Family. I have full faith that you will do the Masaki Jurai line proud… and, as far as I'm concerned, you already have."

She was relieved to see Heero return her smile with a small one of his own. "Ayeka… thanks. That means a lot, really… though you might be giving me a bit too much credit here. Even if I agreed to the match for all our sakes, I still feel like I'm in way over my head. A Juraian Royal should probably be more confident in themselves, right?"

Ayeka shook her head. "Not necessarily. Projecting the aura of that confidence is an important part of the role, but it's quite alright if that doesn't exactly match how you feel on the inside. Believe me, I'm no stranger to such doubts despite being born and raised within the palace itself. Royal life may be luxurious, but the duties and responsibilities that come with it weigh heavily on those who truly take them seriously, which I have always striven to do. I have no doubt that it is the same with you."

Heero nodded. "You're not wrong. Whatever power I had before, I always saw it as that of a soldier or operative. The power over life and death in combat, essentially. Now, though… my authority is well beyond that. My actions have far greater consequences now than before. It's definitely intimidating."

"As well it should be," Ayeka remarked, "The day we stop being humbled by the power we inherit by the grace of our bloodline is the day that we are no longer worthy of it."

Heero looked at her with admiration. "Well spoken. I wish more people held the beliefs that you do, Ayeka. Human history would've been a lot less bloody. Same probably goes for Juraian history, too."

"Perhaps so," Ayeka murmured, struggling to keep from blushing.

Silence fell between them for a few awkward seconds before Heero spoke again. "I think one of the reasons why I hesitated to embrace my birthright is… that I was afraid of the decisions that I would have to make going forward. Decisions like this engagement with Mihoshi, for example."

"Why do you say that, Lord Heero?" asked Ayeka.

Heero took a deep breath as he met her gaze. "Because even if the decision is ultimately for the best… I know that I'm still hurting a dear friend by making it. That was never something I wanted."

Ayeka took a deep breath as well. "I… I know. You are many things, Lord Heero, but cruel is not one of them. You've stived to care for all of us since we came into your life, and I am forever grateful. To know you, to have become your friend, to simply be close to you… I feel most privileged to be a part of your life, and to have you as a part of mine."

"That makes two of us," Heero replied with a gentle smile, "Ayeka… not once have I ever regretted meeting you. In the months that we've known each other, you've become one of my closest friends. Even when I was struggling to adapt to my new situation housing you, Ryoko, and the others as they made their way into my life, you've only ever been helpful and patient with me. You're one of the kindest and most intelligent women that I've ever met. If there's one thing I want for you more than all else, it's simply for you to be happy. You deserve that much, and certainly more."

She saw him close his eyes for a moment, and when he opened them again, the bittersweet sympathy was impossible to miss. "I… I'm sorry that I can't give you what I know you've really wanted from me. I really am… though I'll understand completely if you don't believe me."

Ayeka reached beneath the table to clench her kimono, tempest of emotions whirling in her heart. She had suspected from the start that their talk would go this way, and Ayeka thought she'd braced herself appropriately for it. Even so, it was very much a tough pill to swallow.

"Lord Heero," she eventually said, bringing her hands back up to place them on the table, "I… I appreciate your kind words. It's true that they might not be what I had wanted to hear, but… I can accept them. I think… I've known for a while now that… that what I've felt for you since the moment we met… hasn't been the same for you."

Heero slowly nodded. "Ayeka… I'll always consider you to be a dear friend. Knowing now that you and I are also family doesn't change that in the slightest. If anything, it reinforces how I think that I've felt about you even before learning of my heritage."

"And how is that, Lord Heero?" asked Ayeka with a mix of hope and trepidation.

"In the time that we've spent together," Heero answered, "I've come to see you as someone that I can turn to for counsel and knowledge. Like I said before, you're an incredibly intelligent woman, Ayeka. More importantly, though, is that I see you as someone I can trust unconditionally. It's strange, but even before I learned that I was Juraian… looking back on it, I think I saw you as something like a sister figure. Seeing as I never knew any of my family before, I'm not really sure how that's supposed to feel, but it's the only way that I can really put it into words. Ayeka, you… you became family to me before I even realized it. Learning that I'm biologically part of your family really just made it official. I imagine that's probably not what you've been wanting me to say all this time, but it is the truth. I promise you that… and I feel incredibly lucky that I can call you family. I mean that from the bottom of my heart, Ayeka."

Ayeka couldn't help but smile. Maybe that sort of affection wasn't what she'd been hoping to receive from him, yet she did not doubt Heero's sincerity for a moment. The olive branch was clear; he could not return her romantic feelings for him, but he still genuinely cared for her and wanted to be close to her as family. It was as amicable a resolution to Ayeka's heartache as she could've asked for, and she could bear to accept it.

She held out her hand. "I know you do, Lord Heero… and the feeling is mutual. Regardless of how I've felt for you before, I consider it an honor that you hold me in such esteem. Perhaps these aren't the sort of ties I had once envisioned for us, but to be bound to you as family by blood… and to remain a close friend… that is more than enough for me. No matter what the future holds for you, know that I will stand by and support you through thick and thin."

Her smile grew as Heero accepted her hand. "I never doubted that for a moment, Ayeka. Know that it's the same with me. I think I have a better understanding now of the weight on your shoulders as Jurai's Crown Princess, and I'll do all that I can to help lighten that load for you. No matter what happens, I'll always have your back."

"I can think of no better ally than you, Lord Heero," Ayeka replied, "nor a better friend."

She was surprised to see Heero then smirk as he released her hand. "Oh, I don't know about that. I can think of one."

Ayeka raised an eyebrow. "Who might that be?"

Heero chuckled. "You seem to have a thing for former Gundam pilots, Ayeka. I'm not the only one of my kind that you've gotten close to lately, after all."

Ayeka felt a fresh wave of heat rush to her face. "You're referring to Lord Quatre, aren't you?"

Heero nodded. "I am. I might have a lot on my plate these days, Ayeka… but I'm not blind. You seem to have become a lot more comfortable around Quatre these days compared to the rest of my friends."

"I assure you that I mean no slight to those friends," Ayeka hastily remarked.

Heero raised his hand in a calming gesture. "And none of them would take it as such, Ayeka. To tell you the truth, I always figured that you would get along well with Quatre compared to some of my other friends. You and him do have quite a bit in common, after all. Sure, Quatre might be a business family heir instead of a royal one, and his conglomerate doesn't have the power and reach of Jurai, but he can definitely relate more to your position in life than the rest of us can."

Ayeka smiled. "I suppose that's true. Lord Quatre… I think his background is part of why I've found him so easy to converse with, but there's so much more to it than that. He's highly knowledgeable, a keen student of history and politics, courteous and etiquette-minded to the point that Juraian royalty and nobility alike would be impressed… and as courageous and warm-hearted as yourself, Lord Heero. Not to mention…"

"Not to mention what?" Heero prodded as Ayeka's voice trailed off.

Ayeka looked down as her face warmed considerably once more. "Well… it's a bit embarrassing to say… it feels so shallow when compared to all that I just said before, but… Lord Quatre… he cuts a rather charming figure."

Heero smiled. "In other words, you're smitten with his looks as much as you are with his personal qualities. There's nothing wrong with that, Ayeka."

If there was a mirror handy, Ayeka was almost certain that she'd see nothing but crimson in her face. "I'm glad to hear you say that, Lord Heero. In truth, Lord Quatre's appearance… by Juraian standards it's almost exotic. Blond hair is usually associated with the Seniwa Domain, although Miss Mihoshi's people also combine that with dark skin. Beautiful in its own right, of course; there's a reason why personal unions between citizens of the Empire and the Domain are more common than our reputation as competitors for galactic prominence would suggest. That being said, Lord Quatre's lighter complexion combined with that bright hair of his, and those lovely eyes… whenever I'm in his presence, I find it very hard to look away from him, Lord Heero."

"I'm sure he'd be flattered to know that," Heero replied, "I know he's greatly enjoyed getting to know you. Whenever I see him around you, he always seems so animated and excited, at least from my perspective. Your intelligence and grace are qualities that I'm certain he admires, and he clearly sees you as someone who's fascinating to talk to. Given your background and education, I can understand the sentiment completely."

Ayeka felt her heartbeat pick up slightly. "That's very kind of you to say, Lord Heero. Conversing with Lord Quatre, getting to know him… simply spending time with him… has been a most enjoyable experience. When I'm with him, even if we're discussing serious matters such as the current state of affairs… I can't help but feel as though I can relax more in his presence. No matter how severe our situation may become, Lord Quatre has a certain optimistic air about him that I find quite infectious. It's strange… with others, I might be tempted to call it naïve, but Quatre… it feels more like wisdom and hope. I have no doubt that he's seen his share of horrors, especially since he fought in the same rebellion as you, Lord Heero, yet Quatre… he still has the capacity to find the light amongst the darkness. He never loses heart, no matter how bleak things might become. Quatre… he's a good and noble man, Lord Heero. Qualities that you and your four comrades seem to share. You're all incredible specimens of humanity, Lord Heero. Quatre is no exception. In fact, I daresay I find him to be perhaps one of humanity's greatest beacons, someone that exemplifies the very best of your people. That may be part of why I feel so drawn to him."

"I imagine he'd love to hear that from you directly," said Heero, "I think the feeling is very much mutual on his part. If I can see that you embody the best traits of Jurai in your grace, intellect, and compassion, then I'm willing to bet that Quatre can, too."

Ayeka blinked a few times as the implications became apparent. "Lord Heero… are you saying that I should… pursue my feelings with Quatre?"

"I am," Heero confirmed with a small smile, "especially considering how obviously strong those feelings are. For starters, you stopped giving him the 'Lord' title just a little bit ago in our conversation. You're clearly quite fond of him if you're dispensing with your usual formality."

Ayeka looked down in embarrassment. "Oh… is that so? I seem to be forgetting myself."

"No, you're not," Heero countered, "You're just starting to be a bit more honest about your feelings. That's very much a good thing, Ayeka. Knowing Quatre, I'm sure he'd love it if you simply called him by his name rather than attach a title to it."

Ayeka smiled nervously. "And… beyond that?"

"That's entirely up to you," Heero replied, "I'm not going to force you to make a move if it's not what you really want, Ayeka. All I want you to do, Ayeka, is whatever makes you happy. From what I've seen, you seem to be quite happy whenever you're in Quatre's company. Whether you want to keep that bond as one of friends or explore its potential to become something more is your decision, Ayeka, and yours alone."

Ayeka inclined her head as she met his gaze. "That it may be, and yet… I would deeply appreciate your input, Lord Heero. What do you think I should do?"

"The man who raised me told me something once," Heero remarked, "He said that the best way to live a good life is to act on your emotions. I've tried to abide by that philosophy, and it's taken me down a very interesting road. It's had ups and downs to be sure, but overall, I'd say I'm satisfied with where I've wound up. Think about how you really feel, Ayeka, and act on those feelings. That's my advice. In the end, the choice is yours, and I'll stand by whatever decision you make. I just want you to promise me one thing first."

"Name it, Lord Heero," said Ayeka.

Heero smiled. "That whatever path you decide to take, it's one that you won't regret."

Quatre's face flashed through Ayeka's mind, and she raised her cup while returning Heero's smile. "You have my word… Heero."

Heero nodded. "One last thing. Ayeka, if you do decide to act on your feelings here… I think you should do it sooner rather than later. For as busy as our time on Seniwa has been, it's ironically a reprieve; our mission here's one of diplomacy rather than battle. You know just as well as I do that preparations are underway back in Jurai, and now in Seniwa, for the coming assault on the third repository, along with an almost certain confrontation with Kagato's forces. I don't doubt for a moment that the coming battle will be fierce. This is just my personal opinion, but I don't think you should go into it with anything left unsaid."

Ayeka inclined her head. "I take your meaning, Heero. I'd still like a bit of time to think things over… but not too much. Luckily, today is still young. I will endeavor to make my choice before this day is done... for my sake, as well as Quatre's."

….

Gotta give Seniwa credit for more than just their military might, Quatre thought as he studied footage of past battles on the desktop monitor, I appreciate how easy they've made it for me to learn about their tactics and doctrine. Now that we're onboard as allies, they're sharing information with us quite freely… and the technology I'm viewing it through is surprisingly accessible. For some reason, I thought that computers developed by advanced alien civilizations would be difficult to use, but their interface and operating system is incredibly intuitive and simple. Earth needs to secure a technology sharing agreement with them; we might be able to advance faster working with Seniwa than Jurai in some fields, especially since Jurai's Royal Trees aren't exactly easy for humanity to replicate.

Quatre was determined to take full advantage of the knowledge made available at his fingertips despite the encroaching weariness he felt. Today had been even busier than yesterday, and in a much more hands-on manner. Since the fighters Washu had custom built for Quatre and his fellow former Gundams pilots had been brought along for the mission aboard the carrier Suzume, Heero had requested that they be allowed to partake in training exercises with the Seniwa Navy so as to better understand the capabilities of their new allies. President Moriko had readily agreed to the request, and her military top brass had organized a series of mock battles with surprising speed. Quatre, his fellow former Gundam pilots, along with Ryo-Ohki and Yagami had engaged drone squadrons in cooperation with the Seniwa Navy, and the L4 native had been suitable impressed with both his new allies and the level of opposition that had been organized. In addition to fielding small drone fighters against them in a manner similar to the exercised that had been conducted back in Jurai, Seniwa had also sent out flotillas much larger automated craft designed to imitate full-fledged warships. Sure, it was not the same as engaging actual destroyers, cruisers, or capital ships, but Quatre could still appreciate the level of work Seniwa put into creating as realistic a situation as possible for their live-fire exercises.

Quatre was so engrossed in studying the combat records that he completely missed the chime coming from his door, and it was only a series of sharp knocks followed by a familiar female voice coming from the hallway beyond that made him realize he had a guest. "Uhm… Quatre? Are you still awake?"

Quatre paused the footage and went to the door. Opening it, he saw Jurai's crown princess standing before him. "Hey, Ayeka. I figured that you'd be asleep by now. Everything okay?"

Ayeka smiled and nodded, though Quatre saw her hands nervously gripping her kimono. "I believe so, yes. Would it be alright if I come in? If you're about to turn in for the night, you need only say so and I'll leave you in peace."

Quatre smiled before standing aside. "No, it's quite alright. Please, come inside."

"Thank you," Ayeka replied.

Quatre looked around the room as the door slid shut, suddenly a bit apprehensive. The guest room provided to him by Mihoshi's family was quite nice, but it was only meant for a single occupant. There was a modest washroom off to one side, but the bedroom itself consisted only of the bed, a wardrobe, the desk with the computer on it, and a small table with only a single chair next to it. He supposed that he could offer her the seat at the table, but then what? Should he go back to the desk or sit on the bed? The former might indicate to Ayeka that Quatre was more interested in studying the exercise footage than her, while the latter might send a very different message altogether.

As he tried to work out what he should do, Ayeka wandered over to the desk and peered at the monitor. "Oh, interesting… what battle is this from? My knowledge of Seniwa's military history is unfortunately rather limited."

"The Ambush at the Twins," Quatre answered, "It's from about twenty years ago, when the Seniwa Navy lured the last fleet of an organization called the Jogos Syndicate into a trap and wiped them out."

Ayeka nodded. "I can vaguely recall that name… I believe they were a particularly ruthless slavery cartel that once roamed the Outland Sector. They were quite the menace at the height of their power, even growing so bold as to raid the peripheries of both Jurai and Seniwa. That, of course, was their final mistake."

"Yeah," said Quatre as he gestured at the scene, "From what I've read, it sounds like both the Empire and the Domain were merciless in their pursuit. Jurai and Seniwa seem to have been competing for the honor of being the one to deliver the death blow to the Syndicate. Seniwa won that race in grand fashion."

Ayeka's eyes widened as Quatre let the footage resume playing. "By Tsunami… are they fighting between a pair of suns?"

Quatre chuckled. "Yeah, that was about my reaction, too. From what I can gather, the Seniwa Navy cornered the slavers in a binary star system, and the enemy got desperate. Looks like the Jogos Syndicate fleet thought they could escape by slipping between the two suns; there was a narrow corridor through which passage was possible without being drawn into either star's gravity well. However, this escape corridor had actually been left open by design. You see, Seniwa had set a trap; there was a second fleet lying in wait on the other side of the twin suns, and the slavers couldn't detect them until far too late."

"A clever plan," Ayeka remarked, "If these sorts of stratagems are what the Seniwa Navy practices, then it's very good for us that they're now on our side. We'll need wit to come with military might if we're to succeed against Kagato."

"I can't argue with that," Quatre replied before closing the file and shutting down the monitor, "Something tells me that you're not here to watch old fleet battles with me, though."

"I wouldn't mind doing that with you sometime," said Ayeka, "You're clearly well-informed on such matters, and I imagine that I would learn a great deal studying these old engagements alongside you. However… you are correct; that is not the purpose behind my visit tonight."

Quatre smiled. "I figured as much. What's going on, Ayeka? If you need something from me, you need only ask. You know that, right?"

Ayeka inclined her head and returned his smile. "Yes, I do. Your generosity, Quatre, is one of your many admirable qualities. You have no idea how appreciative I am of it."

Ayeka then gestured at the bed, her earlier apprehension returning in full force. "Would you please sit with me… Quatre? There's something that I wish to discuss with you… something deeply personal."

While not exactly uneasy, Quatre did feel as though he had missed a key detail, and his guard was up. It took him a moment to place what was off; Ayeka was not using the 'Lord' title before his name anymore. Not that he had ever wanted her to use it to begin with, of course, but Ayeka was so dedicated to her sense of etiquette that her abandonment of using that title for him now couldn't be accidental.

"Sure," Quatre eventually answered, and together they sat down together on the edge of the bed, "What's on your mind, Ayeka?"

Ayeka looked down for a few moments before she spoke. "I had the pleasure of taking morning tea today with Heero. We talked for some time… regarding some matters that I really should have brought up with him before now."

Quatre slowly nodded as he realized where this was going. "You mean… your feelings for him, right?"

Ayeka turned to him and smiled weakly. "That obvious, hmm?"

Quatre reached over and placed what he hoped was a comforting hand on her shoulder. "I think anyone who pays attention can see how fond you are of Heero, Ayeka. That's very much to your credit. I know that nobles or royals are supposed to maintain their composure, to be collected and graceful, and there's a time and place for that, but I think that you being relatively open with your feelings isn't a bad thing. It means you're honest, Ayeka, something that more leaders should strive towards in my opinion."

Ayeka seemed to relax somewhat. "I appreciate that… Quatre. To tell you the truth, sometimes I think that I'm not a very good crown princess. I do tend to let my feelings come much closer to the surface than a royal should. I've tried to work on that, but it's hardly been easy. Any rivals I have at court would not hesitate to exploit it, so it is something that I must be mindful of. Still, for you to feel that it speaks to honesty on my part… that means a great deal to me."

"I hope it helps," said Quatre.

Ayeka smiled, her red eyes aglow with more than just light from the room's lamps. "Believe me, it very much does."

Quatre took a deep breath. "So… how did it go?"

Ayeka's response came much easier than Quatre had been expecting. "Quite well, actually. I think a clearing of the air between myself and Heero has been long overdue, and it was quite a relief to finally have it done. I knew going in that he did not return my affections in the manner that I would wish him to, and he confirmed as much, but… well, his sort of affection for me is no less genuine. It is not romantic, but there is more than one sort of love. In Heero's case, the love he feels for me is that of a close friend and family member, and I am more than willing to reciprocate those feelings. Perhaps it's not what I wanted originally, yet I'm quite happy to accept it now. In truth, I think it is for the best."

Quatre smiled with no small measure of relief. "That's good to hear. I'll admit, I've been worried about you ever since the arranged marriage announcement between Heero and Mihoshi. I know you haven't had the easiest time coming to terms with it, but it seems like you and Heero resolved things in a very mature manner. Now that you two know where you stand, I bet it'll make things much easier for both of you going forward."

Ayeka nodded. "Yes, I think you're right. It may not be the outcome that I had once dreamed of, but it's a resolution that I believe works for all involved."

Quatre saw Ayeka's smile become more than a little bittersweet. "When all is said and done… I want Heero to be happy, and the same goes for those he is with. Miss Mihoshi is a wonderfully kind woman despite her clumsy nature, and I know that Heero will do right by her. As for Ryoko… well, I've fought her from the beginning for Heero's heart, and she waged that fight valiantly in her own fashion. If I must lose out to someone, I think I could do worse than her and Mihoshi. I want them all to be happy, Quatre. Even Ryoko."

Quatre reached down and took Ayeka's hand. "I'm sure it's a hard pill to swallow, but I think you've done so as well as you can. For what it's worth, I don't think anyone else could do so as gracefully as you have. The fact that you consider their happiness to be so important says a lot about you, Ayeka, and all of it quite good. If it helps, I'm proud of you. I know this isn't what you wanted to happen, but for you to accept it like you have and how you're seeking to move forward with the well-being of not just yourself and Heero but the others in mind… it really is inspiring. You truly are a remarkable woman, Ayeka."

Quatre could have sworn he caught a flash of red in Ayeka's face, and the way she squeezed his hand only reinforced that notion. "Thank you… Quatre."

She then shifted a bit, moving slightly closer to him as she met his gaze. "Quatre… I could say much the same for you. Having you as someone I can turn to in matters like this, who will listen to me and offer counsel and comfort… you have no idea how much I've come to treasure that. Just as I've come… to treasure so much about you. Your compassion, your courage, your hope, your wisdom… you are one of the most extraordinary beings that I've ever met."

Quatre's eyes widened slightly, and now it was his turn to feel a surge of heat rush to his face. "Ayeka…"

She moved even closer, so much so that now only mere millimeters were between them on the bed, and she looked deeply into his eyes. "Quatre, I… for all my education, all that the finest tutors in the Empire imparted on me… sometimes I'm afraid that eloquence escapes me. I do not know how to accurately put into words just how much you've come to mean to me since I was blessed by you coming into my life. So… I'm going to take Heero's advice. I'm going to act on my emotions… and if what I do crosses a line for you, then I can only beg your forgiveness. Trust that I will understand completely if this is a bridge too far. Even so… before tonight is over, I want you to understand… beyond a shadow of a doubt… what you mean to me, Quatre."

Before Quatre could even begin to think of a response, Ayeka closed the rest of the distance. Placing both hands on his shoulders, she held his gaze for a moment before shutting her eyes, leaning forward…

…and claiming his lips in a fierce kiss.

….

In what paradoxically felt like both an eternity and an instant, Ayeka reveled in the sensation of her lips against Quatre's while simultaneously dreading what could come afterwards. This was the boldest she had ever been in her life, and the part of her that constantly fretted about what was considered proper for someone like her was absolutely freaking out right now. Surely, this was a step too far. For her to thrust her feelings upon a young man that she'd only just recently gotten to know and put him on the spot like this… it could only end one way.

That was why, as Ayeka eventually and oh so reluctantly pulled back, she was already braced for the worst. That heavenly sensation from before would now have to be paid for. She had acted impulsively, rashly, and selfishly, and she had to answer for it.

At least it'll be gentle, Ayeka thought, Quatre will make sure of that. Like Heero, he's not one to enjoy the prospect of causing pain in others…

So it was that she opened her eyes, hoping only to savor the brilliant blue orbs of Quatre's for a moment before he inevitably rejected her advances…

…and so it was that she found herself caught completely flat-footed by Quatre suddenly seizing her, gripping her lower back with his left hand while cupping the back of her head with his right and pulling her right back in for round two.

Utterly shocked, Ayeka froze for a second as her mind processed just what was happening. When it clicked a moment later, Ayeka threw her arms over Quatre's shoulders and eagerly reciprocated, opening her mouth and brazenly lashing out with her tongue. Her audacity was rewarded by the wet and warm feeling of Quatre doing the same, and Ayeka's heart soared. Her fears and worries utterly melted away, and all thoughts of the universe beyond that room were banished completely from her mind.

When they finally parted for air a minute or two later, Ayeka and Quatre stared at each other in both astonishment and elation. Then Ayeka found herself reaching out, tentatively placing her fingers over the topmost button of Quatre's white shirt. She met his gaze again, and the young man slowly nodded. Ayeka did the same, and both threw the last shreds of restraint right out the window. As Jurai's crown princess frantically worked to strip the heir of Earth's famous Winner family of his shirt, she felt the handsome human's hands deftly untying the sash of her robes.

Their clothes landed on the floor in a messy heap seconds later, and Ayeka's world swiftly became one of heavenly ecstasy.

….

Laying on his back, absolutely drenched in sweat, Quatre looked up at the ceiling in a state of wonder. He blinked several times as his mind replayed a whole host of images, flashes of what had just wrapped up before. It had been real… hadn't it?

The sensation of the lithe and nude female Juraian snuggling up against his right side beneath the thin white bedsheet was all the proof Quatre needed to know that, yes, that frenzied bout of passion and pleasure he had just experienced very much had been real. Turning his gaze towards the woman with whom he had just shared a night to remember, Quatre found himself utterly enraptured by her. At some point he could only vaguely recall, the ties that held Ayeka's signature two long tails of hair together had come undone during their lovemaking, and the result was a veritable curtain of purple splayed out over her back and shoulders. She was breathing just as hard as Quatre, was just as soaked in sweat as him, yet her red eyes were downright radiant in exaltation.

Acting subconsciously, Quatre ran his fingers through her hair, smiling as he watched her rest her head on his shoulder and gaze lovingly back at him. "Well, now… that was something else."

Ayeka let out an angelic sigh as she reached over to brush her palm along his cheek. "If this is a dream, then… by Tsunami, I never want to wake up again."

Quatre's smile became a mischievous smirk as he moved his hand down to playfully pinch her cheek. "Still think it's a dream?"

"Eeep!" she squeaked before collapsing into a fit of giggling, "Quatre, you scoundrel!"

Quatre laughed along with her before leaning over to tenderly kiss the spot he'd just pinched. "Apologies, my lady."

"That's more like it," Ayeka purred softly.

They laid together in contented silence for a minute or two before Ayeka spoke again. "Quatre… thank you. I… I didn't know just how badly I needed that until now. Just how badly I needed you…"

"That makes two of us," Quatre concurred, "Ayeka, you… you've got to be the most amazing woman in the entire galaxy. I don't know what I was expecting, but that… I don't know how to put it into words."

"Then don't," Ayeka replied as she reached behind his head to pull him in for a soft kiss, "Some feelings are beyond mere words, wouldn't you agree?"

"I suppose I would," Quatre conceded.

They gazed at each other for a long moment, with Ayeka's eyelids fluttering as she failed to stifle a yawn. "Goodness… I truly don't want to go to sleep. I know that there is much to be done tomorrow, but the last thing I would ever wish right now is for this night to end."

"I know what you mean," said Quatre, "Wouldn't it be nice if we could just freeze this moment in time?"

"It would," Ayeka murmured, "I wonder if Miss Washu could invent a device to serve that purpose?"

Quatre chuckled. "Seeing what all she's created, I wouldn't put it past her. We probably shouldn't ask her to try, though. The galaxy has enough problems without her messing with the space/time continuum on our behalf."

Ayeka sighed. "Oh, I suppose you're right… as much as I might wish otherwise."

Idly twirling some long strands of her hair around his finger, Quatre's thoughts turned towards the morning despite his earlier sentiments. "Tomorrow… how do you want to handle this? Us, I mean."

"Why don't we just keep this between the two of us for now?" Ayeka suggested, "Do not mistake my intentions, Quatre; tonight was heavenly, and I very much wish for a repeat in the near future. Given my position, though, some discretion is unfortunately required."

Quatre smiled in understanding. "Of course. I've got no problem with keeping things low-key. I imagine the others will figure out what's between us sooner rather than later, but we can trust them to be circumspect."

"Most of them, anyway," Ayeka remarked, "Best we be extra cautious with the likes of Mihoshi. Nothing against her. It's just that… well, you know her."

"I do," said Quatre, "Her heart's in the right place, but she'd probably be so happy for you that she'd completely forget any sense of caution."

Ayeka nodded. "That does sound like her."

She then looked down for a moment, and her expression changed to one that struck Quatre as seeming guilty. "We'll also have to be careful when it comes to Sasami."

Quatre raised an eyebrow. "Why? I mean, I can understand not really going into detail with her as to what you and I did tonight, but I don't see the harm in cluing her in that you and I are together now. She's your sister, Ayeka; if you can trust anyone with something secret, wouldn't it be her?"

Ayeka let out a troubled exhalation. "I would very like to, yet… I fear she may be a bit too much like Mihoshi in a matter such as this. She's such a kind and empathetic soul, always wanting those around her to be happy and to celebrate that happiness. I worry that her enthusiasm upon learning that I've found that happiness with you might outweigh what little sense of discretion she may possess."

Quatre considered it for a moment before shaking his head. "I can understand why you might think that way, but I believe you're not giving her enough credit here."

Ayeka blinked a few times. "What do you mean?"

"Well, when I compare Sasami as she is now against who she was back when I first met her, I really think she's grown," Quatre explained, "Maybe not physically, but she's been thrown into the same grave situation as the rest of us, and we'd be wrong to believe that it hasn't impacted her. Maybe she's not fighting like the rest of us, but she's just as involved in all of this as we are. Washu even brought her out to the engagement at the second repository, remember?"

"I very much do," Ayeka murmured as her brow furrowed, "and I don't plan on letting Washu forget it anytime soon. I know we need her expertise, but I think Father and Mother were far too lenient with her on this matter."

Quatre winced, realizing that he had hit a sore spot with Ayeka and would need to maneuver carefully. "While I definitely think that Washu could've handled things better, we have to remember that she wouldn't have been able to smuggle Sasami out of the palace in the first place without your sister's cooperation. Sasami wants to be a part of all this, Ayeka, regardless of how you or I might feel about it. I don't know if she fully appreciates the danger like we do, but I do think that she at least understands on some level the risks."

"As much as I would prefer otherwise," Ayeka muttered, looking up at the ceiling in thought for a few seconds before facing Quatre again, "I believe that I understand where you're going with this, though. Sasami… you may be right, Quatre. Perhaps these trying circumstances have forced her to grow some… faster than Mother or I would like. You think that we can trust her with the knowledge of… well, us?"

Quatre smiled. "I think we can. I'll leave the decision up to you, though. She's your little sister, after all."

"I'll take your words under advisement," Ayeka replied as she returned his smile while reaching over to brush her fingers along his jawline, "Handsome and wise… I don't think any other princess in the Royal Family's history has been as lucky in her choice of lovers than me."

"Pretty sure the lucky one here is me," Quatre quipped with a smirk, "My sisters are never going to believe me when I tell them that my new girlfriend's galactic royalty."

Ayeka giggled. "I would very much like to be there when they learn of our new partnership! It would be most entertaining to see the looks on their faces."

"Why don't we make it a date?" Quatre suggested with a smile, "After this whole Kagato mess has been dealt with, we can arrange a trip back to Earth and my family's colony. My sisters would love to host you again. Sasami, your mother, and any other member of your family would be more than welcome to join us."

"That sounds wonderful, Quatre," said Ayeka, "A date it is, then, and one that I'm quite looking forward to."

She then reached out to cup his chin in her hand before leaning forward to kiss him. "You must promise me that you will survive to reach that point, Quatre. I will accept nothing less from you."

Quatre nodded. "You have my word, and you'd better give me yours as well."

"You have it, my dear Quatre," Ayeka softly answered, her eyelids fluttering in weariness, "Just as you have me."

Quatre wrapped her up in his arms, holding her gaze even as he felt his own eyelids grow heavy. "I'm yours, Ayeka… for as long as you'll have me."

"Then I will have you… for as long as Tsunami's grace allows it," Ayeka whispered.

The two of them closed their eyes a few moments later, drifting off into dreams of the future they would share.

….

April 2nd, A.C. 199

Looking at her reflection in the starship's viewport, the face that looked back at Nagi was hardly recognizable as her own. That was very much a good thing, of course; the bounty hunter had no doubt that her true face was now programmed into security systems throughout both Jurai and Seniwa, and it would not do for her to be recognized during this operation. Still, it was more than a little disconcerting to see green eyes, black hair, and tan skin in the place of her actual appearance. At least the outfit that she wore with it was functional as far as disguises went, consisting of a plain dark grey pilot's jumpsuit with multiple pockets and pouches for storing the various tools of her trade, along with sturdy black boots and simple black gloves. As far as a casual observer would be concerned, what they saw when the looked at her would be just another pilot for hire, not the galaxy's most famous bounty hunter.

Not the first time I've been in disguise for a job, she mused, but it's not something that I really like to make a habit of. The hair-dye's the worst of it. That crap takes forever to come out in the shower. The makeup's a pain, too. At least the false color lenses for my eyes are easy to pop in and out.

Nagi could take some comfort in the fact that she wasn't enduring the discomfort alone. Since she planned on having Ken-Ohki close at hand in the event that she needed to make an emergency escape, her little furry companion had likewise gotten the disguise treatment. His pale fur had been died black, the golden diamond symbol on his head had been given a silver coating, and his scarlet eyes now had blue color lenses in them. Ken-Ohki had been even less pleased with getting into his disguise than Nagi had with hers; the furball had fought her fiercely over the fur dye alone, and getting the lenses into his eyes had been a special form of hell.

Perched on the arm of her chair, Ken-Ohki was scratching furiously at himself, and Nagi could only look at him in sympathy. "Sorry, partner, but that dye's only going to come out in the bath, and that's not happening until we're out of Seniwa space. You'll have to put up with it until then."

"Meow…" Ken-Ohki grumbled.

Nagi reached over to pet him behind his ears. "Yeah, I know how you feel. I'll treat you to something nice when the job's done."

Ken-Ohki perked up somewhat at that. "Meow?"

Nagi smiled as she moved her fingers under his chin; it was one of his favorite spots for scritches. "That's right. We can raid Kagato's stash for some of those vegetables you like. I'm sure he wouldn't miss a bushel or two of them. Besides, with the money that'll be coming in once we've delivered our prize, I'll be able to buy you all the carrots you want."

"Meow!" Ken-Ohki cheered.

Nagi chuckled. "Yeah, I thought you'd say that. Hang in there, partner. We just have to bag a prince and get him out of Seniwa. Nothing to it, right?"

Ken-Ohki eyed her for a moment before his ears drooped. "Meow…"

Nagi shrugged. "Okay, maybe there's a little something to it. Not exactly the easiest job we've take on."

Ken-Ohki shook his head. "Meow, meow."

Nagi sighed as she heard the cockpit door slide open behind her. "Going after him in the middle of Seniwa's capital…"

"A bit too late for second thoughts now," said a female voice.

"Especially since we're almost to our destination," a second one chimed in with a noticeably higher pitch.

Nagi glanced over her shoulder. The second speaker was the child-like form of Tokimi that the bounty hunter had met in Kagato's private communications room. The first one, though, was a woman that Nagi had met shortly after that encounter. At least, that was how Nagi had seen it until said woman had dropped a bombshell of her own, that she and the small, floating girl were in fact one and the same.

Just when I thought that this job couldn't get any weirder…

Taller than Nagi, this adult-form of Tokimi was quite a striking figure. Currently dressed up as the sort of wealthy socialite who might own the ship that Kagato had given Nagi for this job, this version of Tokimi still possessed the same dark brown hair and deep purple eyes as the child body, but said hair was worn slightly longer while the eyes had a wise air about them that those of the child-form lacked. Her fit yet curvy figure was accentuated by the dark maroon dress she wore, with long and slender arms clad in dark purple gloves ending in very pointed fingers. A white half-shawl covered the upper portion of the dress, and if one's gaze went down they would see her feet clad in fine purple slippers. She lacked the head-crest that the child possessed, perhaps forgoing it as being a bit too much decoration for her rich disguise.

When Nagi had asked the very obvious question of why there were two Tokimis before her, the answer she'd gotten was that the childish form was some sort of proxy body. Naturally, this had led Nagi to inquire if the adult body was a proxy as well, and the only answer she'd gotten from Tokimi was a smirk that could've meant anything. Observing the two of them together over the next few days hadn't given Nagi any real answer to that question, but she had noticed that the child form seemed to take its cues from the adult, which the bounty hunger supposed could be considered evidence that the adult body was the real one. However, there was also the possibility that the adult body was indeed another proxy, just one that had some authority over the child form.

Nagi did not like working with people that she couldn't properly understand, but Kagato had made it clear that both Tokimis were coming along whether she wanted them to or not. Her consolation was that both of them seemed like they could have some use; the child form had been invisible during her meeting with Kagato in the communications chamber until Kagato had ordered Tokimi to reveal herself, after all, and invisibility was obviously valuable when it came to any sort of infiltration. Nagi was less certain as to what the adult form of Tokimi brought to the table, but the woman carried herself with a casual confidence that the bounty hunter had long ago learned to associate with the sort of people who very much knew that they were doing. If it came to a confrontation between her and Heero, his friends or the local security forces, Nagi could at least be reasonably confident that her compatriots for this job would be able to hold their own.

She had no choice now but to trust that he companions wouldn't be a burden. The job was underway, even if they hadn't found the target yet. If her new allies were found to be wanting, then Nagi would have to count on her own skills and no small share of luck to see her through the mission.

The adult Tokimi smiled knowingly as she settled into the co-pilot's seat to the left of Nagi's. "Having reservations? Natural, I suppose, but there's no sense in dwelling on them. You've already taken the contract, bounty hunter."

"No need to remind me," Nagi grumbled.

"Meow…" Ken-Ohki growled as he bared his fangs at adult Tokimi.

"Someone's in a foul mood," child Tokimi chimed in as she claimed the seat behind Nagi's, which was normally reserved for a communication's officer, "Does the little guy need a snack? I could go grab him something real quick."

"He's already eaten," Nagi curtly replied, "I don't need him getting an upset stomach when we're coming up on Seniwa."

Adult Tokimi eyed Ken-Ohki in curiosity before holding out her hand over his head. When Ken-Ohki backed away, the woman sighed and shook her head.

"I had hoped you and I might hit it off, young creature," she remarked, "After all, I'm an old friend of the woman who created your kind. In a way, your race is almost kin to mine."

Nagi arched an eyebrow. "Your kid body mentioned something like that back at the mansion. That 'colleague' of yours who created Ken-Ohki's species… it was Washu, right?"

"Oh, good guess!" child Tokimi chirped.

Adult Tokimi smirked. "Yes. Impressive… I don't believe that I ever divulged that. What gave it away?"

"I've been hunting Washu's daughter for years," Nagi reminded her, "and Ryo-Ohki's always been in her company. Not hard to put the dots together and make a guess or two."

"I suppose not," adult Tokimi conceded, "at least for a being as astute as you."

"Save the flattery," said Nagi as her gaze flicked back and forth between adult Tokimi and Ken-Ohki, "You said his species is almost 'kin' to yours? Sorry, but I'm not exactly seeing a family resemblance here."

Adult Tokimi shrugged. "Perhaps that was a poor turn of phrase. Better to be considered in a metaphorical rather than literal sense."

"Whatever you say," Nagi deadpanned as she checked the timer on the main console, "We'll be dropping out of lightspeed in five minutes. Remember your cover for when we're questioned by the patrol pickets."

"You'll be doing the talking," child Tokimi pointed out.

"Yes, but you're still up here in the cockpit with me, and anyone who hails us will notice if it involves a visual feed," Nagi countered.

Child Tokimi smirked before looking at the adult one. "Well, it's not like I have to worry. My cover's easy; I'm my mommy's precious little angel!"

Adult Tokimi chuckled before reaching back to pat the small proxy body on the head. "Indeed you are, my dear."

She then turned back to the bounty hunter. "You needn't worry. We'll both play our parts, as I know that you will. I doubt we'll be given more than a cursory review by the patrols in any case. Seniwa's capital system is crawling with traffic every hour, every day, and the type of ship we're arriving in is hardly a new one as far as the locals are concerned… though a good deal of her special features would be a surprise to them."

That much was certainly true. Possessing a black dagger-shaped hull, with the cockpit at the front while the main fuselage stretched back about two-thirds the length of the craft before a pair of wings jutted out from it before ultimately ending in a quartet of cylinders that housed the craft's incredibly powerful engines, the ship was outwardly a perfect match for a line of high-end courier vessels developed and manufactured by none other than a Seniwa-based company known as Nonpareil Shipwrights. Catering to the upper crust of galactic society, from aristocrats to financiers and corporate chiefs, the company specialized in high-performance transports built for ferrying their well-to-do owners across the stars swiftly and safely. Although meant for a wealthy clientele, the 30-meter-long Ghost Wing-class courier ship was quite a spartan craft on the inside, with its crew and guest quarters being quite plain when compared to the luxurious yachts or super transports that the tabloids and hoi polloi commonly associate with galactic high society. The same went for its corridors, galley, and other such interior spaces. It was comfortable enough, but it wouldn't be winning prizes for artistry or extravagance. Of course, those who purchased the craft appreciated that, because they weren't buying it to make a statement, but to conduct their business and travel while not attracting every wandering eye in the local star system.

As a ship officially designed for the civilian market, the stock version of the ship was lightly armed, possessing a chin-mounted twin-plasma cannon swivel turret set below the bow and another dual turret mounted aft between the engines. The version Kagato had supplied to Nagi for this job, whose IFF beacon was currently programmed to broadcast the name Nightshade, had a few extra weapons tucked away behind special panels which could slide open to reveal them should the situation get dicey. One of those was at the stern of the craft, which housed an ionic-pulse minelayer designed for disabling pursuers, though the mines themselves were only powerful enough to work on lighter craft such as fighters and picket corvettes, and they only properly functioned in the zero gravity of outer space. Panels on the upper hull hid two micro-missile launchers, with each launcher possessing two rows of a dozen warheads apiece. This made for a potential total of 48 missiles should Nagi decide to fire them all off at once. They would be quite useful should the Nightshade have to blast her way through an opposing fighter squadron or two. Rounding out the list of concealed armaments was a pop-out arc energy disruptor mounted behind the missile launchers, handy for disabling smaller craft without killing their occupants.

Nagi was hoping that those weapons wouldn't be needed, in no small part because it meant that if she was forced to use them it meant that her primary means of a clean getaway had failed. That means was in the form of the cloaking device that Kagato had installed on the ship. Capable of rendering the ship completely invisible to both sensors and the naked eye, it could remain activated for eight hours before risking catastrophic overheating of the vessel's main and auxiliary powerplants. The device drew so much energy that the ship's energy weapons would be non-operable, and the vessel's shields, normally quite powerful, would be rendered almost completely ineffective. Kagato had assured her that the cloaking device was tested and proven reliable, but Nagi still had her concerns. There were good reasons why cloaking technology hadn't been widely adopted in the galaxy. Not only was it stupidly expensive to implement, but the power requirements for a 'complete' cloaking field were enormous even for relatively small craft, and that only went up for larger vessels as the field then had to cover an even greater amount of space. Cloaking field generators were also notoriously temperamental pieces of machinery, fiendishly complex and prone to potential malfunction if even the most minor of components was knocked out of alignment.

How Washu was able to incorporate the technology on one of those custom fighters she built for Heero's comrades is beyond me, Nagi thought, I really hope that Kagato's version is as reliable as he claims. Otherwise… well, the exfiltration part of this job could end up being a lot more exciting than I'd like.

"Those features had better work as advertised," Nagi eventually said, "I don't like trusting the success of a job to technology that I haven't had time to properly test."

"You were allowed to conduct a flight and tech trial prior to launching the mission," child Tokimi pointed out, "From what I could observe, it seems like everything went smoothly."

"One test flight isn't a proper test in my book," Nagi grumbled.

"You put the ship through its paces," adult Tokimi countered, "You were given plenty of time in that flight to push the vessel to its limits. I don't recall you encountering a single problem."

Nagi sighed in concession. "I didn't, but still… I would've preferred more time."

"Time is not a luxury available to us," adult Tokimi reminded her, "We spent far too much of it preparing for this operation as is."

Nagi looked her up and down. "Speaking of preparation, is that really what you'll be wearing? Aren't we supposed to strike during some fancy ball? That dress seems a bit plain compared to what the other guests will probably be wearing."

"This is simply travel attire," adult Tokimi replied, "There will be plenty of time to change into something more suitable for the occasion once we've gotten in touch with our contact and received the invitation documents."

"You're hardly one to talk in any case," child Tokimi playfully remarked, "You won't be wearing that to the ball, bounty hunter. Not if you wish to keep your cover as my mistress's servant and bodyguard intact."

"My formal wear won't take nearly as long to put on," Nagi shot back, "and it'll be much more practical, too. I'm more worried about our contact getting us on the guest list. Are we sure he has that kind of pull?"

"Kagato was confident that he did," adult Tokimi answered, "Seeing as the contact is part of the hardliner clique, they have a strong motivation to make sure that our infiltration goes off without a hitch. After all, we'll be acting to undermine their chief political opponent. Our success is in their interest."

Nagi scowled in disgust. "We're trusting people who are willing to betray their own kin. Not exactly the kind of people you can have a lot of faith in."

"They're bitter and hungry for power," child Tokimi noted, "That makes them easy to manipulate."

Adult Tokimi nodded. "We don't have to place faith in them, at least not when it comes to traditional notions like honor or trust. Rather, our faith is placed in their ambition and greed. When it comes to aristocrats, those two traits tend to be safe bets."

"I hope you're right," said Nagi, "If not, then this operation will be over pretty damn quick."

Checking the timer again, Nagi saw that they had less than a minute before they dropped out of lightspeed. "Make sure you're strapped in. We'll be arriving shortly."

Her fingers danced across the console as she prepared for the reversion to normal space. Nagi's focus in particular was on the authentication codes that all ships traveling to Seniwa's capital were required to present to system patrols. Normally, vessels would be given those codes after clearing customs inspection at the Domain's borders, but repeat visitors and VIPS were given a set of travel codes that they could keep stored within the ships' databanks and only had to present them to the Seniwa home system's patrols upon arrival. Those codes were rotated on a regular basis, though, so without periodic check ins with Seniwa patrols to receive the latest batch a ship might miss the update. Kagato had assured Nagi that the codes stored within the Nightshade's computer were current, and she could only pray that he was right.

If not, then we won't even make it down to the planet's surface, Nagi mused grimly, I bet we'd be lucky to even get out of the system…

The Nightshade popped back into real space a few moments later, and the ship's sensor display became swamped with contacts. Not much had changed since Nagi's last visit to Seniwa, even though said visit had been quite some time ago. The star system still teemed with both civilian and military traffic, with the concentration of vessels growing exponentially thicker the closer one got to Seniwa itself. Barely had Nagi's vessel started moving towards the icy ball that was the Domain's capital planet when a dozen T-shaped Sparrowhawk Interceptors veered sharply off whatever their designated patrol pattern had been and moved to position themselves between the Nightshade and Seniwa. Behind the fighters, a seed-shaped picket corvette poured power into the bank of engines that rimmed its rounded rear as it raced to catch up.

A helmeted female pilot appeared on the screen, with Nagi able to make out dark skin, brown eyes and what looked like sandy-blonde hair behind the woman's visor. "Civilian vessel Nightshade, this is Captain Shishido, Seniwa Navy 476th Tactical Fighter Squadron. Acknowledge this hail and transmit authentication codes. Failure to comply promptly will result in your vessel being halted and boarded."

Nagi tapped a key on the console to activate her audio before firing off the codes. "This is the Nightshade, acknowledging hail. Transmitting authentication codes now."

Here goes nothing…

What felt like an eternity but was probably no more than a handful of seconds passed before the Seniwa Navy pilot responded. "Authentication codes received and approved. Welcome to Seniwa, Nightshade. Is your destination orbital or downside?"

"Downside," Nagi answered, "We're heading for Seniwa City."

"Copy that," Captain Shishido replied, "Transmitting a flight plan for you now. Attune your comms to the frequency I'm providing and Seniwa Control will take you the rest of the way."

Nagi eyed her console for a couple of seconds until the update popped up. "Flight plan and frequency received. Thank you, Captain."

"You're welcome, Nightshade," the naval pilot answered, "Enjoy your stay and behave yourself. 476th, out."

They've let us onto the driveway, Nagi mused as she adjusted course to match the new flight plan, I just hope we don't hit a snag when we reach the front door.

The sooner that this job's over, the better.

….

"It's not good enough, isn't it?" Mihoshi fretted as she studied her reflection in the small mirror Kiyone had lent her, "My hair, the dress… it's not good enough for something like this! We need to go back!"

Sitting across from her in the hover limo's luxurious passenger space, Kiyone shook her head and smiled. "Mihoshi, we're almost there. It's a bit too late to turn around now. Besides, we don't need to. You're worrying over nothing, I promise. You look great!"

Did she, though? Mihoshi wanted to believe so. In the past, maybe she wouldn't have gotten so worked up over her appearance. She might have been a klutz, but she knew her way around a makeup set, and thanks to some help from her mother and the family servants Mihoshi had managed to dress up nicely for formal events and parties without making herself look like a complete fashion disaster. Tonight should've been no different. Her mother had picked out the long and flowing pink dress that Mihoshi wore now, one that clung to her curvy frame in all the right places and possessed a silvery flower embroidery pattern that glistened when the light hit it the proper way. Her feet were clad in violet high-heeled shoes, while her Galaxy Police-issued sidearm was strapped to her right leg in a concealed holster. Meanwhile, her normally-curly and wild blonde hair had been straightened for the occasion and tied up into a long braid that now artfully curled around her neck and fell down along the front of her left shoulder. Everyone back at the mansion had insisted that she looked spectacular, and when Mihoshi had first studied herself in the washroom mirror before heading out to the hover-limo, she'd dared to believe it. Now, though, with their arrival imminent, she was beset by panic.

"More than great," said a familiar male voice as a strong hand took hers in a firm yet tender grip, "Mihoshi… you're beautiful. You're going to blow everyone away when you step out of the limo."

Mihoshi turned to her fiancé, who sat to her left. "You really think so, Heero?"

Heero nodded and gave her an encouraging smile. "Absolutely. Having you by my side when we stroll up to the entrance is going to make me the luckiest guy in all of Seniwa."

Mihoshi felt a surge of heat in her face, though that did not stop her from smiling as she looked Heero up and down. "Well, then I'm the luckiest girl in all of Seniwa, since I get to show up to this party with you."

It was not just her way of returning the compliment, either. Heero was wearing the same black uniform that had been tailored for his debut ball back in Jurai, and he looked just as dashing in it now as he did back then. The elegantly curved Key clipped to his waist only enhanced the effect; he truly embodied both soldier and prince, and it was very hard for Mihoshi to keep her eyes off him.

"You're right about that," Ryoko chimed in with a smile that felt surprisingly genuine given the fact that Mihoshi would be monopolizing the pirate's lover tonight.

Sitting on the other side of the passenger space next to Kiyone, Ryoko had forgone a traditional dress. She wasn't here as a partygoer, but as Heero's Royal Guard, which meant she was all business tonight. The Kuramitsu household staff had provided her with a black suit that actually looked quite striking on her, one that blended formal wear with pragmatic function. Her double-bladed Key was clipped to the belt at her waist, and the suit was tailored to allow a full range of motion should Ryoko have to engage in combat.

"No kidding," Kiyone concurred, "Compared to you two, I'm feeling downright plain."

"That's not true!" Mihoshi pushed back, "You look lovely, Kiyone!"

She certainly did, and not only in Mihoshi's eyes; the Kuramitsu Clan's heiress had heard several of her friends compliment Kiyone before they'd left the mansion, and for good reason. It was true that Kiyone's dress was a relatively simple dark green gown with some lighter sea-green embroidery, but she wore it quite well. Like Mihoshi, Kiyone also had her sidearm strapped to her right leg, though hopefully she wouldn't have to use it. Her dark blue-green hair, normally worn long, was tied up in a neat bun, while her feet were clad in dark green dress shoes.

Kiyone looked down in a flustered manner. "Oh, come on, Mihoshi. You're just being nice."

"Don't sell yourself short," said Heero, "You shine just as brightly as any of us, Kiyone. If you don't believe me, then just watch how many people start staring at you once the festivities begin. I have no doubt that you'll have quite a few dance invitations before the night is over."

Kiyone took a deep breath as she looked out the back window, her eyes lingering on the hover-limo that was following theirs. "Heero… do you think Wufei will be one of them? He doesn't strike me as the biggest fan of the ballroom scene."

Mihoshi saw Heero smile again. "It's true that Wufei prefers the field or sparring arena to formal settings like this, but he's adaptable. Send him a signal or two, and I think he'll play along."

"A signal, eh?" Kiyone murmured, smiling as well, "I'll have to take a shot, then. Thanks, Heero."

Heero inclined his head. "Anytime."

"I want all of you to have fun tonight," Moriko chimed in from her seat at the back end of the hover-limo's passenger space, "Yes, you'll be surrounded by Seniwa high-society, and there are certain expectations to be met, but there's no harm with enjoying yourselves. With how busy the past few days have been, I daresay you all have earned the right to some merriment."

Sitting next to Seniwa's president, Jurai's First Empress smirked. "That goes for the two of us as well. What do you say to popping open a bottle of wine together once you and I get a chance to break away from the crowd?"

Moriko smiled mischievously. "I thought you'd never ask, old friend."

If Mihoshi, Heero, Kiyone and the rest of their companions had dressed for the occasion, then that went doubly so for Moriko and Funaho. Seniwa's President had decked herself out in a dark blue dress with a shimmering silver wave pattern woven into it, while her long blonde hair was tied up in a high ponytail that fanned out behind her. Long golden tassels dangled from her ears, while dark blue lip-stick and eyeliner decorated her face. Her dark skin now possessed an almost bronze-like sheen to it, and Mihoshi could only marvel at how the light danced along it. As for Funaho, she had gone with traditional Juraian formal garb. In this case, it consisted of a red kimono with orange embroidery styled like blossoms and falling petals. Her raven hair was tied up in a bun similar to Kiyone's, while golden loops with light blue tassels hung from her ears. Funaho's face was paler than usual thanks to her makeup, the effect of which was only accentuated by dark red lipstick. Together, the two of them looked absolutely stunning, and Mihoshi could only aspire to make such a classy and powerful fashion statement in the future.

"It's a pity that Misaki and Seto are back in Jurai," Funaho remarked, "They always light up occasions such as this."

"Ah, too true," Moriko confirmed before gesturing at Heero and Mihoshi, "Well, look at it this way; once our two scions tie the knot, they can bring the full force of their charms to the reception. It'll be a party to remember."

"Without a doubt," said Funaho as the hover-limo came to a stop, "Still, no reason why we can't make this one memorable. Shall we?"

"Yes," Moriko replied before turning to the others, "Remember the proper order. We have to give the gossipmongers and press the show that they crave."

Heero nodded. "Of course."

Moriko then met Mihoshi's gaze. "Oh, and Mihoshi?"

Mihoshi gulped nervously. "Yes?"

Moriko gave her a warm smile. "Take a deep breath and relax. You're going to do just fine tonight."

Mihoshi slowly nodded. "Okay."

Looking out the window, Mihoshi saw their destination. The ball, meant as a chance for both Seniwa high society and various state officials to be introduced to the bride and groom-to-be, was being held at a massive art gallery just outside the government district. In stark contrast to the towers of steel and glass that dominated the capital city's downtown areas, the Seniwa Domain Artistic and Cultural Exhibition was much more reminiscent of some of the structures Mihoshi had seen during her time on Earth, particularly within Brussels before Heero had moved them all out to the countryside safehouse. A white marble-like material had been used in its construction, with a broad staircase leading up to an entrance that was situated behind a row of thick and ornate columns. The structure was wider than some personal starships were long, and its five stories housed paintings, sculptures, manuscripts, musical recordings, and other such artifacts from across the Seniwa Domain. Leading up to the building from the drop-off point where the hover-limo had just pulled up was a broad walkway flanked on both sides by an elaborate series of gardens and paths that stretched around behind the structure, where visitors could enjoy a pleasant stroll and some rare publicly accessible greenery in the heart of Seniwa's capital. At present, that central walkway was covered in a long red carpet, with various members of the media and government ministries waiting eagerly to catch a glimpse of the Kuramitsu Clan's heir and the Juraian prince that she was engaged to. Even with the encouragement from her great-grandmother, Mihoshi still found it to be one hell of an intimidating gauntlet.

She found reassurance in the form of her fiancé, who gave her hand a gentle squeeze. "It's going to be alright. Just stay with me, and well get through this together."

Mihoshi let out a heavy exhalation before smiling. "Yeah… we will."

Ryoko grinned as she cracked her knuckles. "And if anyone tries to mess with you two, they'll have to deal with me."

Kiyone folded her arms and smirked. "What makes you think that you're going get all the fun? I might be in heels, but I can still put pricks in their place if I must."

"Stand down, ladies," said Heero, though Mihoshi thought she heard a very small chuckle slip through his lips, "I'd rather avoid any physical engagement with our onlookers tonight. Let's try to keep things civil, shall we?"

"Oh, don't worry, Heero," Kiyone replied, "I can restrain myself."

Ryoko rolled her eyes. "Fine, I'll play nice… right up until someone makes a move that I don't like. After that, I'm punching them in the face."

Heero nodded. "Works for me."

The hover-limo's side door slid open, with Funaho and Moriko being the first to step out. Waiting a few seconds, Mihoshi then took the arm graciously offered by Heero, and the two of them exited the vehicle together. Ryoko and Kiyone brought up the rear.

The assembled crowd went into a near-frenzy as they finally laid eyes on the couple. Mihoshi had to resist the urge to shield her eyes as she and Heero were bombarded by holo-camera flashes, and a cacophony of noise broke out as reporters shouted out questions. The assembled paparazzi likely would have mobbed the couple had it not been for the security personnel flanking both sides of the walkway keeping them back.

"Remember, just smile and wave," Heero murmured in her ear, "President Moriko said we're not required to answer any questions from the crowd out here. I'll get you through this, and we'll be inside before you know it."

"Right," Mihoshi muttered.

Looking over her shoulder, she saw a second hover-limo pull up. This one was a good deal longer than the vehicle Mihoshi and her immediate entourage had arrived in, which was no surprise as it had to contain the rest of their companions. First to step out of it were Ayeka and Quatre, the former decked out in a beautiful violet kimono with light pink and red firework patterns woven into it while the latter was dressed in a simple but stylish black and white Seniwa suit. The arrival of Jurai's crown princess mercifully redirected some of the press attention, and Mihoshi could not help but be envious of how deftly Ayeka handled them. She seemed the epitome of composure and grace, not missing a beat as she bowed for the cameras and offered a polite smile as she and Quatre proceeded forward. Quatre himself likewise was completely unphased by the press mob, casually keeping pace with Ayeka and putting on a warm smile for the cameras.

Next to step out of the vehicle were Sasami and Trowa. Sasami looked downright adorable in her green and blue kimono, while Trowa, wearing the same kind of suit as Quatre, could have easily been mistaken for her bodyguard. The younger princess looked more than a little overwhelmed by the attention of the press but, with Trowa at her side to gently nudge her forward and keep her steady, Sasami soon enough found her footing. She politely bowed once for the assembled crowd before proceeding down the walkway, while Trowa flashed the audience a cool and wary look which made quite clear what would happen if any of them overstepped their bounds.

He's been very protective of her lately, Mihoshi mused, I think it's cute!

Following them were none other than Washu and Yosho, and while Mihoshi had become accustomed to seeing them together by now, they surely must have struck the assembled onlookers as a rather odd pair. Washu had gone with a strapless red dress for the evening, with a shawl woven from purple translucent fibers was draped over her shoulders, teasing observers as to what lay beneath. Meanwhile, Yosho had decided on conservative Juraian attire, decking himself out in black robes with a white triangle pattern running along the waist. The Master Key Tenchi-ken was secured to a dark grey sash, and Mihoshi could not help but notice that his right hand never strayed too far from it.

Coming out behind the legendary scientist and Jurai's former crown prince were Duo and Hilde. The couples' attire would not have looked at all out of place back on Earth; Hilde had gone with a relatively simple purple dress while Duo wore the same sort of suit that his friends had chosen for the night. The assembled press didn't seem to know what to make of them, snapping a few obligatory shots but doing little else. That didn't seem to bother Duo or Hilde in the least, though. Both appeared quite content to simply stroll along in the wake of their more famous companions, taking in the sights and making their way along the walkway at a leisurely pace. Bringing up the rear was Wufei, and if he was miffed about being left without a partner, he gave no sign of it. Mihoshi saw his gaze sweep back and forth over the assembled crowds like a hawk; he was all business right now, searching for signs of trouble and ready to pounce the moment he found it.

"Where are Azaka and Kamidake?" Mihoshi asked when she realized who was missing.

"They don't exactly fit in the hover-limos, remember?" Heero pointed out, "President Moriko made arrangements for them to be shipped in separately. I believe that they're being brought in through one of the freight entrances underground."

"Oh, right," said Mihoshi, "I feel a bit bad about them being brought in like cargo, though. They should be out here with us."

Heero shrugged. "Empress Funaho and President Moriko apparently thought that having two Juraian Royal Guardians flanking this procession might signal doubt in Seniwa's security measures. It's important to avoid any potential slights, real or imagined. They'll be waiting for us in the main gallery."

Continuing onward, Mihoshi felt like she was walking on eggshells. She was all too aware of the many eyes that were on her and Heero, of the holo-cameras tracking their every move. Were it not for Heero allowing her to use him as support, Mihoshi was certain that she would have fainted from stress by now.

Of course, her companion was quite conscious of her apprehension, and Heero gave her an encouraging smile. "It's alright. Just a little further. You're doing great."

To someone else, they would've just been words, but for Mihoshi they were an invaluable lifeline. Acting purely on a whim, she leaned over to give her fiancé a quick kiss on the cheek. That action elicited a barrage of fresh flashing from the cameras and heightened shouting from the press for statements, but Mihoshi completely tuned them out. She wanted to only focus on the young man at her side, who meant more to her in that moment than Mihoshi could ever properly put into words.

It was thanks to him that the rest of the walk passed by like a fleeting breeze, and before Mihoshi knew it she and Heero were climbing the wide marble-like steps up to the gallery's main entrance. The press had much less of a presence up here, with only senior reporters from the most favored networks being allowed access, and not very many of them at that. Rather, the crowd was now made up predominantly of nobles, government officials, civil servants, and security personnel.

That was when a familiar male voice called out from the crowd. "Ah, there you are! Mihoshi!"

Mihoshi felt Heero tense up, and she knew without looking that his hand was going towards his Key, so she reached over to take his hand in hers. "Heero, it's alright."

"You sure?" he asked.

Mihoshi nodded before turning and smiling at the source of the voice. "Definitely. Grandfather, you made it!"

Practically bulldozing his way through the crowd to meet them, with even the Seniwa Domain security personnel practically tripping over themselves to clear a path for him, was Minami Kuramitsu. The Grand Marshall of the Galaxy Police was an imposing man at first glance, possessing a tall and broad build that barely seemed to fit into the dark blue and medal-covered uniform he wore. His dark-skinned face had more than a few wrinkles thanks to both age and the stress inherent in his position, but that was offset by the warmth of his dark blue eyes and a ready smile. The bulk of his blond hair was hidden beneath his uniform's blue cap, but his jawline was covered in a thick beard that grew long enough for him to have actually used a red band to tie it in a knot. Out all the figures from the crowd to be ambushed by, Mihoshi infinitely preferred him.

Relinquishing her grip on Heero's arm, Mihoshi abandoned decorum and warmly embraced Minami. "Thank you so much for coming here tonight! I've missed you!"

"Oh, I've missed you too, my dear granddaughter," Minami replied as his thick arms wrapped around her and his long beard tickled her head, "Forgive me for not being able to come home sooner. I've been trying to break away from work for days now."

"It's alright," Mihoshi reassured him as they released each other, "I know how busy your job keeps you."

"It must be difficult to find any sort of free time when you're the head of a galactic law enforcement agency," Heero remarked.

"Quite so," Minami concurred as he looked Heero over, "but when the matter is pressing enough, one makes time. So, you're the young man that's got so much of the galaxy all worked up these days. First Jurai and the Galaxy Police, now Seniwa… you really know how to make waves."

"That's hardly my intent," Heero replied, "though I would understand if you have a hard time believing it."

The two men stared each other down, and Mihoshi looked back and forth nervously between them. She did not think that Heero was the sort of guy that her grandfather would have a problem with; if anything, Mihoshi would have expected the two to really start bonding over their martial experience once they got to know each other. Still, this was only their first meeting, and Mihoshi did not know just how much of Kiyone's reports regarding Heero Minami had read.

Heero took the initiative and held out his hand. "It's an honor to make your acquaintance, sir. I'm Heero Yuy Masaki Jurai."

"Oh, I know who you are," said Minami, "though when your name first came across my desk, it was missing those last two bits."

"In my defense, I wasn't aware of them until quite recently," Heero pointed out.

Minami then smiled as he shook Heero's hand. "I know. I imagine learning of your heritage was quite a shock, though you appear to have adapted quite well. I'm sure you already know my name, but it'd be rude not to make things official. I'm Minami Kuramitsu, Grand Marshall of the Galaxy Police. It's a pleasure to finally make your acquaintance, Prince Heero."

Heero inclined his head. "Likewise. Mihoshi's spoken quite fondly of you before."

Minami chortled as he winked at Mihoshi. "Has she, now? You're too generous when it comes to this old fart, Mihoshi!"

Mihoshi laughed as so much of the tension that had been building up in her since before stepping out of the hover-limo bled away. "Maybe a little!"

Minami chuckled before turning back to Heero. "I must confess, I was quite surprised when word of this engagement reached me."

"Believe me, I was caught off guard when President Moriko first made the proposal," Heero replied as he took Mihoshi's hand in his, "It wasn't a decision that your daughter and I made lightly. Rest assured that I will do everything in my power to protect her and make her happy. You have my word on that."

"With what I've read about you, I'm inclined to believe it," Minami remarked, "Detective First Class Makibi was quite glowing in her praise of you. When I first learned that Mihoshi was marooned on your world, I had feared the worst, but it is clear now that my granddaughter was in the best possible hands. Our family is in your debt, Prince Heero."

Minami then bowed deeply. "On behalf of both the Kuramitsu Clan and the Galaxy Police, I thank you for looking after Mihoshi and keeping her safe. Should you or Earth require any aid from the Galaxy Police, the Seniwa Domain or the Kuramitsu Clan, you need only ask."

"I appreciate that, Grand Marshall," said Heero.

Minami shook his head. "You're going to be family soon enough, young man, so 'Minami' will do just fine."

Heero nodded. "Understood."

Mihoshi saw her grandfather suddenly look past the two of them. Glancing over her shoulder, Mihoshi saw Ryoko and Kiyone coming up the stairs, and she suddenly had fresh cause for concern. Her grandfather would almost certainly be pleased to see Mihoshi's partner, but Ryoko was a whole different matter.

Minami smiled in greeting as the two ladies approached, and Mihoshi prayed for the best. "Ah, Detective Makibi, I was hoping to see you tonight!"

Kiyone snapped to attention. "Grand Marshall!"

Minami smiled and raised a hand for calm. "At ease, Detective. I'm not here to order you around tonight."

Kiyone noticeably relaxed and smiled. "Very well, sir."

Minami then turned his gaze towards Ryoko, who in turn was eyeing him warily. "As for you… I must admit, this isn't how I imagined our first face-to-face meeting would take place, Ryoko Hakubi. For starters, I had imagined a cell's energy containment field standing between us."

Ryoko grinned, but it was less a gesture of friendly greeting than that of a predator baring her fangs. "Yeah, I bet you did. If you want to make it happen tonight, you'll have to get your own hands dirty, old man."

Mihoshi gulped nervously. "Ryoko, please don't start anything here. Grandfather's not here to arrest you tonight."

"Are you sure about that?" Ryoko pointedly asked, her eyes locked with Minami's.

"Yes, she is," Heero answered on Mihoshi's behalf as he released her and stepped between Ryoko and Minami, positioning himself as protector of the former while he stared down the latter, "and so am I. If you've been following recent events, Minami, then you surely must know of Ryoko's new status. She is my Royal Guard, which means that when Mihoshi and I wed, Ryoko will have both of our lives in her hands. I trust her completely, and so should you. She is not the same woman now as the pirate that you once hounded across the stars, though I will understand if it takes you time to accept that."

Minami looked at Heero for a long moment before turning his gaze to Mihoshi. "You may trust her, young man… but do you, Mihoshi?"

Mihoshi nodded and met her grandfather's firm look with one of her own, answering without hesitation. "I do. Ryoko's not just Heero's Royal Guard, grandfather. She's my friend. She would never harm me, and I trust her with my life."

Ryoko smiled, not as a taunt for the Galaxy Police's Grand Marshall, but as a gesture of genuine gratitude. "You really are a sweetheart, Mihoshi."

The former pirate then stepped to Heero's side, joining him in facing down Minami. "I get it if you don't trust me, old man, but your granddaughter and her fiancé do. Like it or not, when Mihoshi marries Heero, I come with him. We're a package deal, and nothing's going to change that."

"For what it's worth, Grand Marshall," Kiyone cut in, "I'm willing to vouch for Ryoko. I know her transformation is a bit… jarring, to put it mildly, but I can confirm that it's real. She's devoted herself to Heero's safety, and she'll do the same with Mihoshi. I'm completely certain of that."

Minami eventually smiled and inclined his head. "Your vote of confidence means more than you might think, Detective Makibi. As for you two, Heero and Mihoshi… if your faith in Ryoko having turned a new leaf is so strong, then the least I can do is grant her the benefit of the doubt. In any case, I have no intention of ordering her arrest. I am well aware of the Galaxy Police's treaty obligations with Jurai's Royal Family; the moment you were made Prince Heero's Royal Guard, Ryoko, I rescinded all of our active warrants and bounties against you. You have a blank slate, Ryoko, and I hope that you will use it wisely."

Ryoko nodded, appearing to relax somewhat. "I plan on it."

Minami's smile grew as he spread his arms in a gesture of acceptance. "That's good to hear. Having commanded forces on the other side of your considerable power, I find it reassuring to know that such power will now be used in the protection of my granddaughter and her fiancé. Long may you stand steadfast and vigilant in your new duties, Ryoko."

Ryoko chuckled. "Aw, shucks, old man… you're going to make me blush if you keep this up!"

Minami's boisterous laughter echoed over the crowd. "Oh, now that would be a sight to see, indeed!"

The Grand Marshall then stepped aside before waving an arm in the direction of the entrance. "Far be it from me to monopolize your time, though. Tonight is hardly about me, after all. Seniwa's elite awaits the Kuramitsu Clan's heir and her groom-to-be, and I think that I've kept you both out here long enough. Mihoshi, Heero, should you desire a friendly face amongst the circling vipers, know that I will be ready to offer you reprieve."

"I imagine we'll be taking you up on that before the night's through," Heero replied.

Mihoshi smiled before stepping forward to kiss Minami on the cheek. "We'll see you again inside, grandfather. Thanks again for coming tonight!"

"Think nothing of it, my dear," Minami answered with a grin, "Now, go and brighten up that gallery with your presence, Mihoshi. There is no piece of art in all of Seniwa that shines with radiance such as yours!"

Mihoshi turned to Heero and took a deep breath. "Well, are you ready?"

"Are you?" Heero asked.

Mihoshi laughed nervously. "Probably not, but we can't stay out here forever!"

Heero chuckled before offering Mihoshi his arm and a warm smile. "No, we can't. Whatever lies inside there, Mihoshi, we'll face it together. Shall we?"

Mihoshi eagerly took his arm. "We shall!"

….

I'm not sure what exactly I was expecting, thought Heero as he and Mihoshi passed through the museum's lobby and into the vast central gallery, but this… well, if I didn't know better, I'd swear that I was back in Brussels.

A sprawling room that could comfortably house a soccer match with room to spare if it were completely emptied, the main gallery played host to works of art that would not have looked out of place at all in a museum on Earth. The walls were lined with paintings in various styles, showing everything from landscapes, portraits of historical figures, scenes of fierce battles, and everything in between. Heero spotted watercolors, oil paintings, and much more besides. Spread out across the chamber, though with enough space cleared out in the center for partygoers to dance and mingle, was a bewildering variety of three-dimensional pieces ranging from classical sculptures to intertwined messes of tubes and spokes that Heero assumed counted for Seniwa's version of modern art.

"Quite the collection," he remarked.

"Oh, you should see what's in the other rooms!" Mihoshi cooed excitedly, "There's so many pretty works stored here."

"You've been here before, then," Heero surmised.

Mihoshi nodded eagerly. "Of course! Mom and Dad took me a lot when I was little, and I still come here with them when I'm on leave. There's always a new exhibit being hosted in one of the halls, so it's a lot of fun to see what they're showing off each time you go. They even bring in collections from outside Seniwa; I saw them host a series of Juraian paintings one time, and they were really pretty!"

"We'll have to come back here sometime, then," Heero suggested, "I'd like the chance to tour the galleries with you and the others."

Mihoshi's eyes widened. "Really? You'd want to do that?"

Heero smiled. "I would if you'd want to."

Mihoshi beamed, bouncing on her heels to the point that Heero genuinely feared she might fall over, and he made sure to keep her on his arm to mitigate that risk. "Oh, yes, I really would!"

"Then it's a date," Heero declared.

Mihoshi quickly leaned in to kiss him on the cheek, drawing plenty of stares from the assembled dignitaries but clearly not caring in the least. "You're the best, Heero! I promise that you won't regret it!"

"I'm sure that I won't," Heero replied before gesturing at Funaho and Moriko, who were waving them towards the center of the room, "Now, we should pick up the pace a bit. It looks like your great-grandmother is ready to show us off to the room."

"Right," Mihoshi murmured as she steeled herself, "Let's not keep her waiting, then."

Surreptitious glancing around the room, Heero noted the presence of both Seniwa Domain security services and Galaxy Police personnel spread out along the perimeter. Closer in, forming a loose ring around the center, were a series of large circular tables surrounded by chairs. Not too far off to one side was a long buffet table laden with all manner of delicacies, a few of which Heero could now recognize thanks to the meals he had partaken in since coming to Seniwa. Along the back wall of the gallery, a stage had been set up, and Heero could see what looked like Seniwa's version of an orchestra making last minute tuning adjustments to their instruments.

They really did go all out here, Heero mused, though that's only natural given the nature of tonight's festivities.

Turning his attention back towards Funaho and Moriko, Heero studied the crowd that had gathered around him. Most of the individuals wore Seniwa's version of formal business attire, leading Heero to believe that the majority were state officials, though some of the women among them had traded pantsuits for more extravagant gowns. Others wore the uniforms of what Heero now recognized as belonging to Seniwa's armed forces, and based on the considerable amount of medals and other such decorations adorning them, they were clearly high-ranking officers to boot.

"Ah, and here is the man and lady of the hour!" Moriko proclaimed with a grin as Heero and Mihoshi drew near, "Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to present Detective First Class Mihoshi Kuramitsu, heir to the main line of my family, and Prince Heero Yuy Masaki Jurai of the Empire."

Heero was keenly aware of the sharp gazes focused on him and Mihoshi. His eyes covertly darted towards Mihoshi, and he was relieved to see her standing tall and proud; if she was intimidated by the scrutiny, she gave no sign of it.

Plenty of backbone when the chips are down, Heero thought with a very small smile, Mihoshi, you're far stronger than you give yourself credit for.

Funaho politely bowed before stepping forward and placing one hand on Heero's shoulder and the other on Mihoshi's. "You two represent a shining future for both Seniwa and Jurai. President Moriko and I could not be prouder to present you both to our peers tonight."

Heero inclined his head. "That's very kind of you to say, Empress."

"We're honored," Mihoshi concurred with a bow.

Funaho smiled as she stepped back and bowed. "The honor is mine and President Moriko's. Your impending union means so much for not just personally, but for all of Seniwa and Jurai."

"Indeed," Moriko concurred as she gestured to the assembled state officials and military officers, "You two will open many doors between Jurai and Seniwa, and Empress Funaho and I are hardly the only individuals keen to take advantage of that."

The next several minutes were spent introducing the couple to an assortment of Seniwa ministers and members of the Domain's military top brass. While the former presented airs of cordiality that one would expect from career politicians, the latter were much more open in the interest that they had in Heero. It seemed that word of his exploits as both a pilot and ground combatant during the raids on the first and second repositories, along with his performance in recent exercises, had spread much quicker than the young prince expected.

It looks like my fighting skills are good for more than just destruction and murder, he thought, I'd rather not bank on renown won through bloodshed, but if it helps secure the aid we need… I suppose it's just another weapon in the diplomatic arsenal.

While Heero and Mihoshi were forced to field queries and small-talk with the bigwigs, the Preventers operative saw the rest of his companions spread out in the gallery. Ryoko and Kiyone did not stray too far from the center, with both making sure to keep Heero and Mihoshi in their sights. Duo was already dragging Hilde towards the buffet, and Sasami was pulling Trowa along right behind them. Meanwhile, Ayeka and Quatre had been accosted by some officials not too far from the group which had congregated around Heero and Mihoshi, with Jurai's crown princess deftly and gracefully handling the unexpected attention while her companion simply smiled and chimed in where needed. The two of them gained some reprieve when Azaka and Kamidake floated to part the crowd, having come from across the gallery to be by their princess's side the moment that they'd caught sight of her. Yosho and Washu were likewise just a short distance away from the center, drawing some curious looks from the other guests as they observed Heero and Mihoshi. When he caught Washu's eye, the scientist gave Heero a small nod, which he took as a sign of her approving just how he was handling himself so far. Lastly, Wufei was slowly circling the room like a hawk, taking in both the artworks and the assembled guests in a cool and calculating manner; he was clearly more interested in playing the role of security operative rather than party guest tonight.

When the last of what Heero guessed were the most important invitees to the party had entered the gallery, an aide approached and whispered something in Moriko's ear. Seniwa's President then turned to Jurai's First Empress, and the two of them beckoned for Heero and Mihoshi to follow. The young couple found themselves led to the stage where the musicians were set up, and Heero felt a twinge of apprehension.

"You're not about to have us give a speech, are we?" he asked, "You said earlier that Mihoshi and I wouldn't be called up on to give any sort of address."

"And you're not," Moriko reassured him, "It'll be Funaho and I addressing the crowd. Just some quick words, and then the party will truly begin. You two just need to stand up there and look good for the audience."

"Something you'll have no trouble doing," Funaho added with a wink.

They took the stage, with the orchestra going silent as all eyes in the gallery turned towards them. Moriko and Funaho both stepped towards a microphone that had been set up in the center, while Heero and Mihoshi took up position to the left of the two women. It felt strange to simply stand up there, not having any role to play beyond being just an object for the press and dignitaries to look at.

It's for the mission, Heero reminded himself, so just put up with it.

As he and Mihoshi stood by silently, Moriko addressed the room. "As President of the Seniwa Domain, it is my great honor to welcome all of you for this splendid occasion. This little get-together of ours is more than just a bit of spectacle and theater. It represents the fruits of much diplomatic labor between the Seniwa Domain and the Empire of Jurai. It is my sincerest hope that the friendships and ties forged tonight and in the days to come will ultimately serve to bring ever-greater prosperity to both of our respective nations. Now, please welcome a dear friend whose efforts have been vital in making this all possible. People of Seniwa, allow me to introduce First Empress Funaho Masaki Jurai."

Moriko then stepped aside as polite applause rippled through the crowd, allowing Funaho to take the mic and bow before speaking. "On behalf of the Empire of Jurai, I'm profoundly grateful for the gracious welcome we have been given since arriving in Seniwa space. As many of you already know, President Moriko and I have long sought to parlay our friendship into cooperation between Seniwa and Jurai. The fortuitous discovery of my long-lost son and his descendant in the Outland Sector presented us both with a unique opportunity to deepen the relationship between our nations for our mutual benefit."

Funaho then smiled and gestured towards the couple that the entire room had their eyes on. "My great-grandson, Prince Heero Yuy Masaki Jurai, has vowed to take Seniwa's dear Mihoshi Kuramitsu as his beloved wife. Know that he sees this as more than simply an engagement of political convenience. For some time now, he has watched over Mihoshi since she crash-landed on Earth, protecting and sheltering her. He has demonstrated himself to be dedicated to her well-being in the truest sense of the term, and he will do everything in his power to keep her happy and safe in their partnership. People of Seniwa, I promise you this; the heiress of the Kuramitsu Clan could not be in safer hands than his."

Heero and Mihoshi both smiled and bowed as a fresh round of applause rang through the gallery. It sounded a bit more enthusiastic than what had been given following Moriko's opening remarks, though of course that was subjective. Still, Heero would take it as a good sign.

Funaho then stepped back, and Moriko took the mic again. "As you give your word regarding my dear great-granddaughter's safety, I offer you the same concerning your precious great-grandson. I promise to you, First Empress, and the people of Jurai, that Prince Heero will be protected and treasured by Seniwa and his bride-to-be."

Applause rippled through the gallery once more, quickly escalating when Mihoshi leaned over to kiss Heero on the cheek. Though the gesture definitely caught him off guard, Heero would hardly complain, especially when he saw Mihoshi's flushed yet smiling face.

"Now, I think you all have heard enough from the two of us for one evening," Moriko continued with a wink, eliciting a chorus of chuckles and good-natured laughter from the crowd, "Tonight is not one for speeches, but celebration. I invite you all to eat, drink, fraternize and be merry to your hearts' content!"

On cue, the orchestra started playing, and Moriko led Funaho, Heero and Mihoshi off the stage. Seniwa's President offered her hand to Jurai's First Empress, and the two of them took to the dance floor. Several of the guests followed their lead, and many expectant eyes were on Heero and Mihoshi.

Heero turned to his fiancé and gestured at the dancefloor. "Shall we?"

Mihoshi beamed radiantly. "Let's!"

And so, the Juraian Prince and Kuramitsu Clan heiress moved in, with the dancing couples smoothly giving way so that Heero and Mihoshi could take the center of the dance floor. Taking one of her hands in his while placing another on her hip as she steadied herself by placing her free hand on his shoulder, Heero guided Mihoshi through a gradual and simple circle in time with the thankfully slow beat of the current song.

"I'm probably going to step on your feet a lot tonight," Mihoshi whispered with a sheepish smile, "I'm sorry."

Heero smirked and shook his head as he drew her in closer to him. "Don't worry about it. I've got pretty tough feet. Just relax and enjoy yourself, okay? Tonight's for us, and I want you to have fun."

Mihoshi nodded, her confidence seeming to grow. "Alright."

Glancing off to the side, by chance or fate, Heero's gaze met Ryoko's. She was standing at the edge of the dance floor, mostly focusing on the people around Heero and Mihoshi, making sure that they didn't pose a threat. Even so, when her eyes locked with Heero's, the pirate-turned-Royal Guard nodded and smiled. The unspoken message was quite clear; he didn't need to worry about her tonight.

So, Heero turned his attention back to Mihoshi. The couple gently flowed along with the beat, circling and swaying as the other guests became an indistinct blob around them. Their focus was strictly on each other now, just the way that they wanted it.

….

Her gaze focused on the guests nearest to Heero and Mihoshi, Kiyone was unaware of Wufei approaching her until she heard his voice come from behind. "If I didn't know better, I'd say you were on duty. Aren't you going to enjoy the party?"

Turning around, Kiyone was surprised to see Wufei holding two glasses of clear sparkling liquid. "You're one to talk. I saw you stalking the room's perimeter like a wolf earlier."

Wufei shrugged. "Force of habit. Most of the time, whenever I attend big shindigs like this, it's as security. It's just reflex for me to scope the place out at this point."

Kiyone nodded before eying the glasses. "I can relate. Hey, one of those for me?"

"Why do you think I grabbed two?" Wufei asked as he passed one to her.

Kiyone studied the contents. "Champagne?"

"Some kind of cider," Wufei answered, "I don't usually partake at classy parties like this, but the server said that the alcohol content's pretty extremely mild, so I figured that I'd make an exception tonight. It's a pretty good occasion for it, after all."

"I'd say so," Kiyone replied as she accepted the glass, "I want to keep my wits about me tonight, so one glass is all I'll do."

"Same," Wufei concurred, "Anything you want to drink to?"

Looking out at the dance floor again, Kiyone smiled and lifted her glass as she watched Heero take Mihoshi through a graceful twirl. "To the happy couple."

Wufei glanced at Heero and chuckled before tapping his glass against hers. "Works for me."

They each took a sizeable gulp before Wufei looked out at his friend and shook his head. "Of all the ways that things could've played out… if you told me when we left Earth that Heero would have to marry a princess to pull this mission off, I would've laughed at you."

"Can't say I would've blamed you for it," Kiyone conceded, "Technically, though, Mihoshi's not a princess. She might as well be as far as her family and Seniwa are concerned, but she doesn't have the official title."

Wufei rolled his eyes. "You know what I mean. Didn't think you were the type to get so picky on technicalities."

Kiyone smirked. "I'm a cop, remember? The devil's always in the details, as you humans are so fond of saying."

Wufei chuckled before raising his glass in her direction. "Touché."

They tapped their glasses together and both took another deep sip before Wufei spoke again. "Well, as much as I'm enjoying what they've got on offer here, it'd be a shame to just spend the party on the sidelines. We're both off the clock, so we might as well live it up while we can. How about we have a bit of fun?"

Kiyone eyed him curiously, daring to get her hopes up. "What did you have in mind?"

Wufei set his glass down on a nearby table before offering his hand to Kiyone. "Care to dance?"

Kiyone fought the urge to pump her fist in triumph, instead settling for a warm smile as she likewise set aside her drink and accepted Wufei's hand. "I thought you'd never ask."

The timing was perfect; the band was just getting into the groove of their next piece. Allowing Wufei to lead, Kiyone was impressed with how deftly he led her through the crowd before seamlessly getting into step with the beat. She surrendered the initiative to him, and was pleased to find him more than up to the task as he took her through a gradual circling dance.

"You really do know your way around a ballroom," she remarked, batting her eyelids at him, "I'd better watch out before any of the other ladies around here pick up on your skills."

Wufei held her gaze, and Kiyone found her face flushed with heat under the surprising intensity of his stare. "You want me all to yourself, hm?"

"I won't deny it," Kiyone confessed, "though if you'd prefer otherwise, I would understand."

Wufei shook his head, and Kiyone felt his hand on her hip nudge her ever-so-slightly closer to him. "You're the only dance partner worth my time tonight."

"Forward, aren't you?" Kiyone purred with a wink even as she felt herself blushing furiously, "I can appreciate that in a guy."

"Good," Wufei shot back, "because I don't do subtle unless it's part of the mission."

Kiyone chuckled. "Yeah, I've noticed."

Wufei raised an eyebrow. "What's that supposed to mean?"

Feeling bold, Kiyone leaned in and pecked him on the cheek. "Whatever you want it to mean."

Wufei looked at her intently, and Kiyone momentarily feared that she'd overstepped, but the gradual smile that came to his face set her at ease. "Women… you say you like a forward guy, but you just have to play coy, don't you?"

"A girl's gotta take any advantage she can get," Kiyone countered with a smirk, "I can't match your skills one-for-one, but I have my wiles."

"Don't sell yourself short," Wufei pushed back, "You've been running exercises with us for a while now, remember? I've seen your moves, and you're not bad. With the right training, you might just give me a run for my money."

Kiyone tilted her head. "Oh? And who's qualified to give me that 'right training'? You think that you can do better than the Galaxy Police's drill sergeants?"

"Yes," Wufei answered.

Kiyone blinked before laughing. "Wow, you really are blunt, Wufei!"

Wufei flashed her a cocky smile. "I thought you liked that in a guy. Bitten off more than you can chew?"

"Not a chance," Kiyone answered, "and I don't back down from a challenge. That's if you're being real with me here, anyway."

"As real as I always am," said Wufei, "You want to put your skills to the test, be the best? I could show you what I know."

Kiyone was genuinely interested. "Say I take you up on that… what's the cost of entry?"

Wufei shook his head, his gaze hardening. "Nothing, at least not directly. I'll only say this; if you agree, then I won't be pulling my punches. If you want a challenge, you'll definitely be getting one."

Kiyone smiled. "Well, then… when can we start?"

"Tomorrow morning?" Wufei offered, "I could put you through your paces bright and early. Once I've got your present limits figured out, we can build up from there."

Kiyone grinned. "I'm game."

Wufei nodded approvingly. "You're a gutsy woman, I'll give you that. You've at least got a solid foundation to build off of, but you'll find that the sort of training that my friends and I endured is more than a cut above Galaxy Police boot camp."

"I believe it," said Kiyone with a chuckle, "When I first met Heero, I was amazed at what he could do. He beat Mihoshi and I at the same time, and he didn't even work up sweat. Now I find out that he's got four friends who are on his level… you guys can be pretty damn scary, you know that?"

Wufei shrugged. "For what it's worth, we don't try to be. We were put through the toughest training by our superiors because of the sheer scale of the enemy we would be facing. Anything less, and we wouldn't have survived. If others find us terrifying because of what we can do… well, that's a perfectly natural reaction."

Kiyone shook her head. "I didn't mean it like that. Sure, if I didn't know you guys like I do, I might be scared. But I do know you. You, Heero, the others… you're all really good people, Wufei. The galaxy's lucky to have you guys going up against Kagato on its behalf… and I'm lucky to be fighting alongside you."

Wufei smiled. "I could say the same for you. The Galaxy Police might not fully appreciate your abilities, but I definitely do."

Kiyone held his gaze as they continued to dance, celebrating on the inside. An ordinary man would have complimented her looks tonight, but Wufei was not ordinary by any stretch of the imagination. Him praising her skills was a much more genuine compliment than any he could have made regarding her appearance.

I wonder if he realizes that he could sweep me off my feet right now, she mused, and I would totally go along with it…

A glance around her told Kiyone that she was hardly the only woman tonight enjoying herself. Heero and Mihoshi still occupied the center of the dancefloor, and Kiyone's fellow Detective First Class looked absolutely over the moon for the Juraian Prince right now. Off to their right, Kiyone saw Quatre and Ayeka together, with Jurai's Crown Princess utterly aglow as her human companion led her through a slow and swaying rotation. Jurai's younger princess had likewise taken the floor, with Sasami positively beaming at Trowa while he gently and patiently guided her through the dance. Hilde and Duo had broken away from the buffet and were now joining the dancers, with Duo's wife playfully taking the lead in a reversal of roles while her husband just smiled and went with the flow. Even Yosho and Washu were getting in on the action, though Jurai's long-lost prince and the infamous scientist seemed just as focused on watching Heero and Mihoshi as they were with their own dance.

"This is nice," Kiyone murmured.

"It is, isn't it?" Wufei remarked, "The ballroom's not usually my scene, but I'll admit, this is a pleasant little change of pace."

Kiyone smiled. "You know, when this whole mess with Kagato is over and Heero and Mihoshi get married, there's going to be even bigger parties than this to celebrate. Both Jurai and Seniwa will host balls that make this one look like just a friendly gathering. Earth might get in on the action too once your Preventer organization finds out that Heero's gaining them an alliance with the galaxy's two major powers."

Wufei chuckled. "That's true. I suppose I might have the ballroom in my future once the mission's over. Guess I'll have to get used to it."

"I could help," Kiyone offered with a wink, "seeing as you and I will probably be attending the same parties."

Wufei smiled as his eyes met hers. "I'd be open to that."

Kiyone quickly leaned forward to kiss his cheek before batting her eyelashes at him. "Then it's a date."

Wufei was quiet for a moment before he squeezed her hand. "It is."

….

Taking a break, Heero found himself at an empty table with a mostly empty plate before him, watching from the sidelines as Mihoshi shared a dance with her grandfather. He looked on as she smiled just as brightly with the Galaxy Police's Grand Marshall as she had with him earlier, finding comfort in Mihoshi's ceaseless cheer and optimism.

She really was worried about tonight, he thought, yet look at her now. She truly does set the room aglow. Mihoshi… I really am lucky to be engaged to you.

"Playing the wallflower at a gala held in your honor?" asked a familiar male voice from behind him.

Looking over his shoulder, Heero turned to Yosho before gesturing at his plate. "Just wanted to sample some of the goods. I'll return to the dancefloor soon enough."

Yosho smiled. "Well, no one can blame you for wanting to enjoy what's on offer here tonight. President Moriko certainly went all out with the catering."

"She did," Heero concurred.

Yosho looked at him for a moment before nodding towards one side of the gallery. "Care to take a little walk with me? I've been meaning to break away from the festivities for a bit and indulge in some art snobbery."

Heero raised an eyebrow. "You, an art critic? You never struck me as they type."

Yosho chuckled. "I'm not. I've been away for so long that I'd hardly recognize the latest styles and trends… not that I was all that well-versed in the subject even when I was an active Royal. Truth be told, I never really paid much attention during my fine arts tutoring sessions. Those lessons were at my mother's insistence; she was always more into such things than I."

"And yet now you maintain a shrine back on Earth that this museum probably would consider a piece of art in its own right," Heero pointed out.

Yosho smirked and inclined his head. "Yes, the irony is not lost on me in the slightest."

"At least you're self-aware," Heero quipped before standing up, "Can't say that I'm an expert on art, but I guess I should get to know the culture that I'm marrying into."

"That's the spirit," Yosho praised as the two of them set off, "Perhaps I should have Mother assign you tutors for galactic art history when things have calmed down. You just might be the kind of student they'd like to have."

"If it's necessary for playing my new role, then I'll abide by them," said Heero.

Yosho shook his head as they made their way through the crowd. "I understand the mindset, but you really should adjust it soon. This is more than just a role for you; with the choices that you've made, it's your new life now."

"A life that you eventually sought to get away from," Heero noted after they'd cleared the bulk of the partygoers.

Yosho eyed him curiously for a moment before inclining his head as if in concession. "Yes. While the actions of Kagato and his sister made my exile somewhat non-voluntary, I'll admit that I quickly found the idea of maintaining it appealing. The life that now lies before you… I could only take it for so long. If Kagato and Ragyō hadn't attacked me over Earth, I may very well have eventually engineered a disappearance of sorts… perhaps even at that same planet."

Heero turned his gaze towards a watercolor painting, a striking landscape showing sunlight upon the snowy Seniwa plains. "What made you decide to give it all up? I can understand wanting to get away from things, but still… just completely throwing away a life where you had living family close to you?"

Yosho closed his eyes for a moment, and when he opened them, his gaze seemed remorseful. "Given how you grew up, I suppose my decision must seem incredibly selfish… and it was. The deprivations and struggles you faced in your youth clearly drive your views on family. Considering I ran away from what you have just recently come to know and treasure, I can't blame you for holding an ill view of me."

Heero shook his head. "It's not like that."

Yosho smiled, though it was a bittersweet one. "You don't have to sugarcoat it, Heero. Given all that I kept from you during our time on Earth, what our family has gotten you and your friends pulled into… I can understand you being less than thrilled with having the likes of me for a grandfather."

"You're wrong," Heero insisted.

Yosho arched an eyebrow. "Oh? If that's so, then I have to ask; why didn't you come to me for advice when President Moriko broached this marriage arrangement. I've assumed this whole time that it was because you didn't want my counsel, that it would be meaningless since I abandoned my own duties."

Heero sighed. "That's not true. Not entirely, at least."

Yosho gestured towards himself with an open palm. "Then please, enlighten me."

As the two of them passed by a series of portraits and artistic renderings of Seniwa's magnificent orbital constructs, Heero's brow furrowed in thought. "Washu actually brought this up… even made the same point you just did. I suppose that part of the reason was that I didn't think you could help since you had abandoned Jurai and the responsibilities of your position, but that wasn't all of it."

"What am I missing, then? Yosho asked.

Heero came to a stop and looked at his grandfather. "The truth is… I don't really know how this is supposed to work between us. I… for the longest time, I didn't think that I had any living family. I don't know how I'm supposed to act with a grandfather. What I can talk to you about… even how to talk to you about something that's outside my training or the mission. It sounds silly, I know."

"Not silly at all," Yosho reassured him as he placed a hand on Heero's shoulder, "You've been thrust so far beyond what you're accustomed to, and you've handled it all quite admirably, but even someone as resilient as you can be overwhelmed. So much of your present situation is alien ground, and I'm not just referring to the fact that you've been traveling to worlds far from Earth and her colonies now. The traditional concept and notions of family are foreign to you, and you find yourself struggling to adapt to them. Am I wrong?"

"No, you're pretty much right on the money," Heero confessed.

Yosho chuckled. "I thought as much… and you, my dear grandson, are thinking too much."

Heero was taken aback. "What's that supposed to mean?"

"There is no roadmap or instruction booklet when it comes to family," Yosho answered, "There's no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach, no single absolute manner in which a family is supposed to operate. You've been a soldier all your life, and that means you're accustomed to approaching things with a plan, with a set of objectives to achieve. Family is not nearly so neat and tidy."

"I suppose that's true enough," Heero admitted, smirking slightly, "and I guess that goes double when the family in question is one like ours."

Yosho laughed heartily. "Exactly! Sure, as Royals, we're expected to follow certain levels of etiquette and protocol in public, but the private sphere is a very different animal. For you it's even worse, because you've now had the Juraian Royal Family thrust upon you when you have no idea as to how you should act with family at all. You're now a member of one of the most consequential and complicated families in the galaxy, Heero. Adjusting to that was never going to be easy for you."

"I can't argue with that," said Heero.

Yosho gestured broadly at the ongoing party. "I realize that now may hardly seem like the ideal time and place, but if there is anything that you wish to discuss with me, you need only say it. I have been absent for the bulk of your life, Heero, and that was my failing. I genuinely do wish to make that up to you. If you need counsel, or just someone to vent a bit to, I am here. There are no rules to it, no etiquette or protocol that you need concern yourself with. Simply speak from your heart, Heero. Where family is concerned, that is all you need."

Heero turned his gaze towards the dance floor and found Mihoshi again, this time dancing with her younger brother. "Well, in that case… what do you think about all of this? Mihoshi and me, I mean. Did I make the right call?"

Yosho's brow furrowed as he looked at Heero's fiancé. "While I did consider that you might find yourself forced to play the political marriage game at some point during this little adventure of ours, I must admit that Mihoshi was not the first woman I pictured as your bride-to-be."

"You disapprove?" Heero asked with a pointed stare.

Yosho smiled and shook his head. "No, not at all. On the contrary; she's a wonderful match for you. She may have an uncanny proclivity towards clumsiness, but she's a pure soul if I've ever seen one. Cheerful, earnest, optimistic, hard-working and compassionate… if she is to be your first wife, Heero, then I could not be happier with the match. I had simply imagined someone from Jurai's aristocratic sphere rather than Seniwa, so this engagement to Mihoshi did catch me rather off guard."

"It definitely wasn't something that I was anticipating when we left Earth," Heero admitted with a small smile as he looked out fondly at Mihoshi, "Even now, I don't think it's entirely set in. Still… I think it's growing on me."

His gaze then shifted as he searched for Ryoko. It didn't take long at all to find her; she was seated at a table with Washu, sharing a meal with her mother while keeping an eye on Heero. She smiled and waved when their eyes met, and Heero readily returned both gestures.

Yosho smiled knowingly. "It certainly helps that you've had time to get to know her. You two understand each other, which will make things easier going forward… and for more than just your first marriage."

Heero understood what the old man was getting at. "Funaho told you, then? How I plan to… resolve things with Mihoshi and Ryoko?"

"Not explicitly," Yosho replied, "but it wasn't hard to read between the lines."

Heero sighed. "Part of me still feels guilty over it. I keep trying to think of some other solution, but every time, I reach the same conclusion. This is the best means of reconciling my feelings with my duty."

"For what it's worth, I think you've found the right solution," said Yosho, "I imagine it's not what you or your beloved protector had originally imagined for yourselves, and you'll have your share of struggles to go through as you strive to balance your affection for both of them. Still, if anyone can pull off that particular tight-rope walk, I believe it's you."

Heero chuckled ruefully. "I wish that I had your confidence. I feel like I'm about to dive headlong into unknown territory."

"That's because you are about to do just that," Yosho remarked, "although it's only unknown for you, Heero. My father would know a thing or two about the situation that you now find yourself in. You could seek his advice when we return to Jurai. I imagine he'd have more than a few valuable insights to share."

"I don't doubt that," said Heero, "However… I can't imagine that he'd be particularly thrilled with one of the women that I'm going to bring into the family."

"Don't be so sure of that," Yosho pushed back, "It's true that your decision to make her your Royal Guard caused some consternation, but the Emperor went through with the ceremony regardless."

"Because he was bound by duty and tradition to do so," Heero pointed out, "He was hardly happy about it, and I doubt this will make things any better."

"Much of that displeasure was actually meant for the royal court to see," Yosho argued as they walked past a series of paintings depicting landscapes on worlds across the Seniwa Domain, "As Emperor of Jurai, Father has certain expectations placed upon him, and that means his reactions to certain events or news must be carefully calibrated to meet those expectations."

Heero's brow furrowed. "You're saying his displeasure was performative, then?"

"For the most part, yes," Yosho replied, "Granted, I'm sure some of it was genuine; no ruling monarch would be happy about a member of their family appointing a notorious galactic criminal as his or her Royal Guard, after all. Speak to him in private, though, and I'll wager that you'll find him much more receptive and sympathetic than he can be in public. After all, Father is no stranger to how a Royal following their heart can lead to turbulence within the palace court. His marriage to Mother is proof enough of that."

"She wasn't meant to be First Empress, right?" Heero asked.

Yosho nodded. "Misaki was expected and arranged to be Father's wife, so him taking Mother as First Empress instead roiled the court. It's funny, really; so many nobles acted shocked and appalled except for the one that was supposed to have been insulted the most by such a move."

"Funaho mentioned something along those lines," Heero remarked, "Misaki didn't give her any grief about marrying the Emperor ahead of her. In fact, they treat each other as sisters, and quite close ones at that."

Yosho chuckled. "I daresay those two are thick as thieves with all the mischief they get up to! Lady Seto encouraging their antics certainly plays into things, and Father hardly stands in their way. Still, matters were rather touch-and-go at court for quite some time before Mother was granted wider acceptance as First Empress. Father had to smooth over quite a few ruffled feathers. Still, I know for a fact that he considers it all worth the effort. He loves both Mother and Misaki equally, and I think he'd consider his life incomplete without either of them in it… much as you would without a certain lovely rogue, I believe."

Heero smiled as he looked over at Ryoko again. "You're not wrong."

"When you eventually make your move with regards to Ryoko, I would suggest meeting with the Emperor in private first," said Yosho, "He'll still have to put on a show of displeasure in public, but in private he can help considerably in greasing the wheels."

"It's not just him and the Juraian court that I'd have to worry about," Heero pointed out, "I don't think that Seniwa would take kindly to it, even if I'd still have Mihoshi as my first wife."

"President Moriko can help work things out with the Domain's elite and the populace," said Yosho, "You'll find that she's more than capable of striking the right balance between compassion and pragmatism. I'm not saying that things will be any easier in Seniwa than they'll be in Jurai, but you won't lack for support in either."

Heero nodded. "I don't doubt that for a moment… and I'm grateful for it. I'll remember it, grandfather, and I'll seek you out again for counsel."

Yosho smiled. "And I will be there for you when you need it. After all, that's what grandparents are for."

….

It's been such a long time since I was last here, Washu thought as she strolled through the west wing of the museum, yet so many of these pieces… it feels like I just saw them yesterday. Whoever's running the show is doing an impressive job with the preservation.

Strictly speaking, the party guests were only supposed to have access to the main gallery and rear gardens, with the west wing and other such areas having their lights shut off to discourage wanderers, but it had not been particularly difficult for Washu to slip away for a bit. The security personnel were primarily focused on the safety of key government figures and dignitaries like President Moriko and First Empress Funaho, and they had paid surprisingly little attention to the notorious scientist in their midst. Washu did not know if she should be happy or insulted that the guards were not worried about her. On the one hand, she appreciated the freedom of movement it offered, but on the other… had she really been away from the grand stage so long that her name and creations no longer carried weight?

"That's your ego talking," she muttered under her breath, "Some of those creations you really shouldn't be so proud of."

"I disagree," a female voice echoed through the darkened west wing, "They are expressions of the boundless frontiers that your mind always yearned to explore, of the limits that you always sought to surpass. They are you, my old friend; regret and shame will not change that."

Washu's blood froze as she slowly turned around. She knew that voice, and if the woman it belonged to was here…

…then the night was about to take a very wrong turn.

Sure enough, there she was. Granted, her attire was not what Washu was used to seeing on her; the sheer red dress, cut in the sides to allow tantalizing views of her upper legs and thighs, was considerably more risqué compared to what she typically wore. However, her pale skin, deep purple eyes, dark brown hair, and that gold and orange V-shaped crest flowing back from her forehead were the same as when Washu had last seen them…

…all those eons ago.

"Tokimi," she hissed.

Her fellow goddess smirked and shook her head. "Is that the greeting I'm worth? Washu, that hurt."

"Forgive me if I'm not overly concerned with your feelings right now," Washu growled, "Seeing as you've teamed up with my now truly insane colleague and are helping him threaten all life in the galaxy."

"Such a crude outlook on the current state of affairs," Tokimi replied as she wagged her finger like a lecturing teacher, "Really, I thought you were better than that. It's only the narrowest of barriers that separate genius from madness, after all, and that wall is rather permeable. You would know that better than most."

Washu's eyes darted frantically around the room, eliciting a firm look from Tokimi. "Looking for an escape route? Hoping to attract some guards? Don't bother; I've taken steps to ensure that we won't be interrupted. Didn't you find the gap in security that you slipped through in order to get here unchallenged to be just a bit too convenient? More to the point, you're no match for me on the physical plane. Not when I'm in this body, anyway. By all means, try to run if you want proof."

Washu stared her down. "Why are you here? There's no point in coming after my memories; Nagi already copied what I gleaned from the second repository. Both of our camps are in the same boat when it comes to information on the third repository and the wider Array, and taking me won't give you any further advantage."

Tokimi shrugged. "I could debate that by pointing out your potential value as a hostage, but taking such an action is beneath me. Tonight isn't about you, Washu. I swear, your ego remains as big a fault now as it was so long ago."

An electric tingle of foreboding went down Washu's spine. "Then… Tsunami?"

Tokimi smiled before shaking her head. "No, though the notion of approaching her host and eliciting a reaction is an intriguing one. That would ruin the fun she's having tonight, though. I must say, she does look quite interested in that young man I saw her dancing with. I believe he's been her only partner since the party began. Trowa Barton's his name, yes? I wonder if the host's affections for him are a reflection of Tsunami's feelings, or are they perhaps exclusive to the princess? Either way, he must be a fascinating young man in his own right to have garnered such attention. Not quite as fascinating as his royal comrade-in-arms, though, at least in my eyes."

An alarm rang in Washu's mind as a critical puzzle piece fell into place. "Heero… you're here for him."

Tokimi's smile became a wicked grin. "Of course. Him and I are long overdue for a meeting now, after all."

"He won't go down easily," Washu growled, once again searching desperately for a possible escape route, "and he'll have plenty of backup. You can't go all out on him without risking a space-time rupture, and unleashing one here won't do your candidate any favors."

"Then it's a good thing that I won't be doing any such thing," Tokimi replied, "After all, my candidate and I both very much want him alive, and we've brought in a professional who's more than up to accomplishing that task."

"Nagi." Washu hissed.

Tokimi began advancing on her. "I'm quite looking forward to seeing her earn the substantial reward Kagato has offered for this contract. If I wish to witness it firsthand, then I'm afraid that I cannot spend any excess time with you. Forgive me, old friend. Perhaps, when we next meet, we'll be able to chat longer."

Throwing caution to the wind, Washu booked it. Dashing to the right, she made a beeline for the closest emergency exit. The door would have an automatic alarm connected to it, which Washu very much intended to trigger in the hope of giving Heero at least some form of advanced warning.

Unfortunately for her, she did not make it that far. The moment Washu had broken into a run, Tokimi had done the same. Not only were the legs of her current body substantially longer than those of Washu's present form, but Tokimi had not been bluffing in the slightest regarding her superiority on the physical plane. She caught up to Washu before the scientist had even reached the halfway point, twisting her arms behind her head with one hand while pulling out a white cloth with the other.

"I need you out of the way for a bit," Tokimi whispered as she brought the cloth towards Washu's face, "Sweet dreams, my friend."

Washu caught a whiff of the chemicals which stained the cloth just before Tokimi shoved it in her mouth. She struggled in futility for the few seconds that the potent concoction required to knock her out, mustering one last conscious thought before darkness claimed her.

Heero…

I'm sorry.

….

Gazing up at her dance partner, Sasami felt like she was on top of the world. While she had indulged in dances with Ayeka and some of her other friends, Jurai's younger princess had predominantly stayed with Trowa, and he had graciously obliged her. Sasami almost felt guilty about monopolizing the young man this night, but when she had apologized to Trowa and offered him a break, he had simply shaken his head and smiled.

It almost feels like he's spoiling me tonight, she thought, I'll have to find a way to repay him when we get back to Jurai. Maybe I can take him somewhere special in the capital… I could ask mother to help me find a good place.

Gently guiding her through a twirl, Trowa inclined his head as he caught Sasami and brought the two of them into the next steps of the dance. "You're getting better with each round. Your mother would be proud to see your progress."

Sasami blushed furiously, though that didn't stop her from smiling. "Thank you! You're… really good at this, Trowa."

Trowa shrugged. "It helps that I was classically trained, and with all the high-society events we've been going to since this mission started, I've had plenty of opportunities to practice."

"Why were you trained to dance?" she asked, "Weren't you supposed to be a soldier?"

"More than a soldier," Trowa answered, "I had to be able to infiltrate a wide variety of environments, and that included parties held by my world's ruling elite. Being able to dance at those events was important for blending in."

"Oh… I guess that makes sense," she said.

An image of the woman that she had seen with Trowa at the Christmas party back in Quatre's colony flashed through her mind. "Do you… dance with that girl in your circus?"

"You mean Catherine?" Trowa replied, "Our routine doesn't really involve that. We're both acrobats, and she throws knives at me. Classical dancing doesn't really have a place there."

"What about outside the circus?" Sasami pressed.

Trowa was quiet for a moment. "Whenever Quatre or Director Une invites us to a party, we'll usually share a dance, but that's it."

"I see," Sasami murmured.

Trowa looked at her curiously. "Is something wrong?"

Sasami quickly smiled and shook her head. "No, not at all!"

It was true, in a sense; there really was nothing wrong with Trowa dancing with a girl that he had known well before he and Sasami had met. Yet a part of Sasami was uncomfortable with it, even though she had actually met Catherine at the same party with Trowa and found her to be a very warm and gentle woman. So, why could Sasami not shake that sense of discomfort?

Well, she knew why, but she didn't want to admit it.

She was jealous.

She shouldn't have been. Trowa had told Sasami that he saw Catherine as more of a sister than a romantic interest, so it wasn't like the woman could be seen as competition. Even so, Sasami couldn't deny the feeling of envy.

It's not right, she told herself, Catherine doesn't deserve that from you. She was nice to you when you were at Quatre's colony. She's a good person.

Trowa seemed to pick up on her disquiet. "Sasami, are you sure everything's alright?"

Sasami nodded, hoping that her smile this time was a bit more convincing. "Everything's fine, I promise."

Trowa regarded her for a moment before nodding. "Okay."

The two of them continued to dance, with Sasami doing her best to banish those unsettling thoughts from her mind so she could simply enjoy the moment. For a few minutes, she was able to do just that. Then, whether by chance or fate, as Trowa took her through another spin, Sasami's gaze fell upon a woman who was standing off to the side watching the dancefloor. A brown-haired woman wearing a red dress…

…with deep purple eyes.

Sasami did not know her, had never met her, hadn't even seen her face before. By rights, there should have been no reaction from her at all. The woman should have been just another random face in the crowd, one that Sasami should have just looked past without a second thought. Yet the moment Sasami's gaze met that of the mysterious woman, the princess suddenly felt a great upswelling within her chest and head. She lost her balance as a surge of energy threatened to overwhelm her, and only Trowa's quick reflexed kept her from collapsing to the floor. As it was, she staggered against him, and the young man clearly recognized that something was wrong.

"Sasami!" he yelped as he tried to keep her upright, a rare case of his composure slipping, "Sasami, what's wrong? Talk to me!"

Sasami's lips moved, but not by the princess's volition. Something, or rather someone else, was trying to speak through her, and the entity's power was overwhelming for Sasami. Her head seemed to spin, and Sasami could dimly feel herself losing consciousness. She only managed a single word before darkness claimed her... or rather, the being speaking through her did.

"Tokimi…"

….

While the guests on the dancefloor panicked at the sight of the younger Juraian princess collapsing, Ryoko was blissfully unaware of the event. That wasn't because she was neglecting her duties; quite the opposite in fact. By chance or fate, Heero and Mihoshi had quietly slipped away from the party just a few minutes ago, and Ryoko had followed them at a respectful distance out into the gardens behind the museum. Knowing that the couple wanted privacy, Ryoko kept well back, far enough to grant them their wish while still being able to respond should they call for her. They were just out of her line of sight, though a simple glance around the hedge she was behind could change that easily enough.

Those two aren't the only ones who need a break, Ryoko thought as she tugged at the collar of her suit, I know this thing's nice, but it gets damn hot and stuffy in there. This night air feels good…

Focusing on undoing a few of the topmost buttons so she could catch some of the breeze on her skin, Ryoko almost failed to notice that she was about to have company. Another woman had slipped out of the museum's back entrance and was heading her way.

A brown-haired woman with purple eyes, wearing a red dress.

She did not look familiar to Ryoko, yet something about her set the Royal Guard on edge. The woman bore no weapons that Ryoko could see, and she seemed to be just casually strolling along the path, yet there was a subtle undercurrent about her that set the former pirate's hairs standing on end. It was concealed, suppressed, but it was unmistakable; there was power dwelling within this woman.

The woman smiled as she caught Ryoko's gaze. "Ah, it seems that I'm not the only one who needed to cool off for a bit. I hope that I'm not intruding."

"Not at all," Ryoko replied cautiously as she moved to button her shirt back up.

The woman waved a hand dismissively. "Please, don't mind me. I daresay, your attire leaves you far worse off than mine. At least this dress isn't so stifling."

The woman drew ever-closer, and Ryoko's right hand instinctively drifted down towards her Key. "Listen, nothing personal, lady, but I'm not looking for company right now. It's a big garden; plenty of nice spots if you're looking for a place to be by yourself for a bit."

The woman's purple eyes gleamed, almost as if she was amused by Ryoko's reaction. "Oh, I have no doubt of that. None of them have you, though."

"And what exactly do you want with me?" Ryoko asked, her voice dipping into almost a growl.

"To make your acquaintance, of course," the woman replied with a smile that seemed equal parts coy and genuine, "After all, with our ties, you might as well be my niece."

Ryoko's head snapped back in confusion. "Say what?"

"Come now, my dear," the woman purred as she stepped closer, "You can surely put it together. I've already given you what should be the only hint required. If you can't, then you'd be quite the disappointment to your mother."

Ryoko's mind raced, and a tingle of dread began creeping down her spine. If this woman considered her as akin to a niece, then that could only mean…

"Shit!" she snarled as she snapped the Key off her belt.

It was too late; the woman had already closed the gap, her movements deceptively quick. A mere split-second before Ryoko could activate the Key, the woman reached out and grasped the upper half of its hilt…

…and crushed it like a cheap can of beer.

Dropping the remains of her broken weapon, Ryoko instinctively funneled energy into her hands. Before she could generate one of her energy blades, though, the woman seized Ryoko's hands in a monstrously powerful grip.

"Sorry, dear," she said with a smirk, "but I don't have time to entertain you tonight."

Then the woman's head came racing forward, and Ryoko's world went black.

….

"Thanks for stepping out with me," said Mihoshi as she wiped sweat from her brow, "I needed this."

"Anytime," Heero replied as he loosened up the collar of his uniform, "You're not the only one who needed a bit of fresh air, after all."

Mihoshi smiled as she gazed at him. "You always look so cool, though. I didn't think you were uncomfortable in there."

Heero shrugged. "I've grown accustomed to hiding discomfort. There's a lot that you can endure with the right training under your belt."

The two of them were standing at the stone-carved railing of a raised terrace. Behind them were rows of hedges and bushes, many of them in bloom, while in front and below was a wide circular fountain with paths branching off on either side of it venturing into groves of trees. Broad staircases descended from both the left and right of the terrace, offering paths down to the fountain.

Mihoshi followed Heero's gaze down towards the fountain and smirked mischievously. "You know, if you're too hot, I could push you into the fountain later. I bet that would help you cool off!"

Heero chuckled. "You could try, though I'd just drag you in with me."

"Maybe that's what I want," Mihoshi shot back as she placed a hand over Heero's on the railing.

Heero's eyes met hers. "Well, I imagine your great-grandmother and mine would probably want us to stay dry for the party. After things die down, though… I wouldn't be opposed to coming back out here with you for an 'accidental' dip."

Mihoshi's eyes widened for a moment before she descended into a fit of giggling. "Oh, that was bad! In a good way, though."

Heero allowed himself a soft laugh. "I guess I'm not exactly a smooth operator when it comes to this sort of thing."

"I like it," Mihoshi reassured him, "You're trying, and that's what counts. At least it feels genuine when it comes from you. Some of the people back in there… they have good lines, but it's all fake. You know what I mean?"

"I think so," Heero replied as he considered many of the guests that he had encountered at the party tonight, "All the etiquette and protocol, the one-liners and flattery… so much of it's just a façade. It's the same with gatherings like this back on Earth. The higher up you move in society, the less genuine many people seem to become."

"Exactly," Mihoshi concurred as she rested her head on Heero's shoulder, "That's part of why I wanted to join the Galaxy Police, you know? Growing up here, I got used to meeting people who were polite and spoke prettily, but so much of it was just a mask. I love my family, I really do, but… since we're so powerful, we attract people who just see us for that power instead of as us. I hated it and wanted to get away from it. Does that make sense to you?"

Heero nodded. "You wanted people to see you for who you were instead of only seeing your family name. In joining the Galaxy Police as a recruit just like any other, you could have that. People might still recognize your family name, but it didn't impact how you did your job or how someone like Kiyone would see you. Do I have it right?"

Mihoshi smiled. "Pretty much."

It was then that Heero's senses prickled. For just a moment, he detected a spike in Ryoko's energy, but it then vanished almost as soon as Heero had picked it up. Reacting immediately, Heero whirled around to place himself between Mihoshi and the direction from which he'd sensed the energy spike. At the same time, he drew and ignited his Key.

Mihoshi's eyes widened in alarm as the azure blade sprang to life. "Heero?"

"We've got company," he growled, his eyes narrowing as they scanned the area, "The unwelcome kind."

Heero then raised his voice. "Ryoko, respond!"

"She won't be able to for a while," a youthful-sounding female voice said, "and she's going to have quite the headache when she wakes up."

The voice came from his right, so Heero angled to defend from that direction while still being able to shift back should the need arise. He heard the rustling of fabric, and a quick glance over his shoulder showed Mihoshi reaching beneath her dress to draw her sidearm. The clumsy girl was not exactly Heero's preferred choice of backup in close combat, but he was not about to turn down her help. Still, he also was not going to put her at unnecessary risk.

"Stay behind me," he ordered.

Mihoshi did not argue. "Got it."

Heero saw a small silhouette lurking just beyond the light of a nearby stone lamppost. "Show yourself, or I'll drag you out of the shadows myself."

There was a high-pitched giggling from the figure. "I'd almost prefer that! I've never had a boy play rough with me before. Will you be my first?"

Then the silhouette floated forward, revealing herself to be a brown-haired girl that looked no older than Sasami, or perhaps even younger. Heero had learned quite some time ago that judging the age of people in the wider galaxy could be a tricky thing, though, so he was not about to make any assumptions. Instead, he focused on studying the girl herself. She was dressed strangely, with a maroon gown that had a red and cream half-cape covering her shoulders. Her dark purple eyes had a mischievous glint in them, not helped at all by the pixy-like smile on her face.

Her face…

As Heero met her eyes, he was suddenly struck by a sense of familiarity. Why, though? He'd never met this girl before; her appearance was distinct enough that he'd definitely remember if he had. So what was triggering this recognition?

Then Heero's mind flashed back to the conversation he had with Washu following the clash at the first repository. All that she had shown him when she'd revealed the truth of herself…

…and that of the other two beings who had, alongside Washu, created the universe as Heero and his companions understood it.

One had been Tsunami, easily recognized in Heero's eyes as essentially an adult version of Sasami. The other had been a brown-haired woman with deep blue-purple eyes…

…which were awfully similar to those of the young girl floating before him now.

Heero's eyes narrowed as his gaze locked with the girl's. "You… are you related to Tokimi?"

The girl's eyes widened somewhat, and her smile grew. "Well, that was quick. I see Washu filled you in. Good, that saves time."

"Why are you here?" asked Heero.

"What do you want with us?" Mihoshi nervously chimed in, her gun aimed over Heero's shoulder squarely at the girl's head.

"Under other circumstances, I'd perhaps congratulate you two," the girl replied with a wink, "A union between a Prince of Jurai and the heiress of the Kuramitsu Clan's main branch, and the two of you look so cute together… it's almost a shame that I have to ruin your wedding plans."

"If you're here to kill me," Heero growled as he summoned four Light Hawk Wings and angled them in front of him, "you won't have an easy time of it. I don't care if you're one of the goddesses that created the universe; I won't go down without a fight, and I'm sure as hell not letting you get Mihoshi."

The girl grinned and clapped her hands together. "Oh, you are everything my mistress and I hoped you'd be, and a good deal more! This is going to be so much fun! Oh, and you needn't worry; we're not here to kill anyone."

"Who's 'we?'" Heero asked.

It was then that the hiss and crackling of an energy weapon activating rang out from behind, and Heero instantly recognized it. Whirling around, he was too late to stop the violet strand of a whip curling around Mihoshi. A woman wearing a black formal suit was perched atop the stone railing. She had green eyes, black hair, and tan skin, but Heero had seen enough disguises in his time as a Preventers operative to recognize the woman's appearance as such. Her body and demeanor, along with the weapon she had just used to entangle Mihoshi, was all Heero needed to identify her.

"Let her go now, Nagi," Heero snarled, repositioning his Light Hawk Wings so two were angled at the bounty hunter while the remaining pair were still between him and the child-like Tokimi.

"Sorry," Nagi replied, genuinely sounding remorseful, "but not before she takes a nap."

Mihoshi shrieked as Nagi shocked her with the energy whip, and Heero took the gloves off. Before his fiancé had slumped to the ground, he sent two of his Light Hawk Wings at the bounty hunter. Nagi leapt backwards over the railing as she released Mihoshi from her whip, but not before Heero had the satisfaction of seeing one of the white energy sheets cut deep into the bounty hunter's right shoulder.

While sending Nagi reeling, Heero sent the other two Light Hawk Wings at Tokimi. Her youthful appearance meant nothing; Heero had spent enough time around beings like Washu to know that an outwardly young body could be extremely deceptive. The girl must have been caught off guard by Heero's ruthlessness, because she made no move to evade and was quickly impaled upon both wings. Her body slumped over, but then she raised her head, and the smile she gave him was downright creepy.

"How cold you are," she murmured, not appearing all that bothered by the sheets of energy which had run her through, "I didn't expect that from the candidate of Tsunami and Washu…"

"Indeed," said a new female voice, sounding similar to the childish Tokimi but with a considerably deeper tone, "What a fascinating development."

Whirling around, Heero saw a woman in a red dress coming his way. Her brown hair and purple eyes left no doubt as to her identity, and Heero swiftly reoriented all four of his Light Hawk Wings in front of him while keeping his blade raised. The woman appeared unarmed, but Heero was not about to take her lightly.

"Are you the real Tokimi?" Heero asked.

The woman chuckled. "Yes and no. It's a bit complicated, I'm afraid."

"That's fine," Heero replied as he advanced on her, "You'll have plenty of time to educate me when I've taken you in for interrogation."

Tokimi grinned wickedly. "You think you can apprehend me? Take your best shot."

Heero did just that, lunging forward with both the azure blade of his Key and the four Light Hawk Wings. With the former, he aimed for Tokimi's legs in an effort to cripple her, while he surrounded her with the latter and attempted to box her in. The goddess in mortal form twisted and twirled with a dancer's grace, contorting her body in ways that would make an Olympic gymnast jealous as she evaded all of Heero's strikes with mere millimeters to spare.

"Fine form," she remarked as she spun past a thrust while ducking beneath two sweeping Light Hawk Wings, "and excellent control. I can see why Tsunami and Washu are so taken with you."

"Spare me the flattery," Heero grunted as he took a stab at her left foot, only for her to deftly side-step the strike.

"Oh, I assure you, my words are quite sincere," Tokimi replied before jumping to avoid a Light Hawk Wing aimed at her legs and simultaneously spinning to evade the other three, "To think that you were completely unaware of your powers not too long ago… I don't believe you comprehend just how far you've progressed in such a short amount of time. Kagato's quite right to be interested in you."

"He should've come out here himself," Heero growled as he pressed the attack, "Then he could see what he's interested in up close and personal."

Tokimi chuckled while continuing to slip through the web of energy Heero was trying to ensnare her in. "And rob me of my fun? I think not."

Determined to pin her down, Heero angled the four Light Hawk Wings to each come at her from a different elevation and force her towards his blade. He saw Tokimi's eyes widen ever so slightly, and for a moment Heero believed that he had her. Then he heard a familiar hissing and crackling come from behind him, and a strand of violet energy wrapped around his neck.

Nagi…

Even knowing what was coming, the shocks from her whip still hurt like hell. Fighting through the pain, Heero kept himself on his feet and sent two of the Light Hawk Wings back towards the bounty hunter. Doing so allowed Tokimi to slip free of the trap Heero had attempted to catch her in, but he simply could not allow the foe at his rear to remain unchallenged.

The energy strand around his neck loosened as the bounty hunter was forced to evade, and that gave Heero his chance. Seizing the strand with his bare left hand and gritting his teeth as fresh shocks coursed through his body, Heero pulled the violet thread of energy over his head and tossed it aside while keeping his Key and the other two Light Hawk Wings angled towards Tokimi.

The goddess did not attack, much to his surprise, instead simply smiling and offering applause. "Most impressive, young man."

Heero paid her no heed. He would have attacked, but Nagi had advanced from behind and he could not leave the bounty hunter uncontested. Since Tokimi now seemed to be standing back, Heero kept two Light Hawk Wings between him and her while intercepting Nagi's saber with the blazing sapphire blade of his Key. That was when Nagi's left arm suddenly came up, and Heero belatedly saw that she had a second weapon, a parrying dagger whose blade was covered in violet energy. Reacting instantly, Heero brought one of the Light Hawk Wings down to intercept the dagger. At the same time, he sent the other Light Hawk Wing at the bounty hunter from the right in a flanking attack. Nagi rolled to avoid the strike, making a thrust with her saber as she came up while deflecting the other Light Hawk Wing with her parrying dagger. Redirecting the blow, Heero saw that the wound he'd dealt her right shoulder was covered in some strange blue-green foam.

Probably some sort of emergency spray meant to quickly stop blood loss during combat, he surmised as he countered with a series of quick cuts and thrusts, I have to hand it to her; she always comes prepared.

While taking the fight to the bounty hunter, Heero could not help but notice the complete lack of friendly reinforcements. Ryoko had obviously been incapacitated, likely by Tokimi herself given the direction that the woman had approached from, but the museum grounds were under heavy observation by both Seniwa Domain security personnel and a Galaxy Police contingent. Given that Heero was using both his Key and Light Hawk Wings, this was hardly a low-profile scuffle; someone, whether through naked eye or security devices, should have seen the ongoing fight and responded accordingly by now.

There was only one logical explanation for the lack of backup for Heero; security was compromised. Someone must have leaked information to Nagi and her allies, and they had taken measures to ensure that they could make their move uninterrupted. Part of Heero's mind was already racing to narrow down potential suspects, but he shut that down for the moment. Given his present circumstances, he could not afford any distractions.

As their energy blades clashed, Heero saw Nagi smile. "You've come a long way from when we first met. Even back then, you were good. Now, though…"

"Save it," Heero curtly interrupted, "I could care less for compliments from you right about now."

The bounty hunter's gaze fell, and once again she seemed sincerely remorseful. "Fair enough."

Rapidly approaching footsteps from behind told Heero that Tokimi was coming back into the fray. He rapidly spun all four Light Hawk Wings around him, forcing bounty hunter and goddess alike to back off lest they be shredded. Once again reorienting the wings so that one pair faced Nagi and the other Tokimi, Heero angled his blade at the latter as a standoff ensued.

"Not bad at all," Tokimi remarked with a smile, "Holding your own for this long against the two of us is no small feat."

"I told you not to take him lightly," Nagi chimed in.

"I can do this all night," Heero growled, as he looked back and forth between the two of them, "If I were you two, I'd consider retreating. Even if you've compromised the security here, mine and Mihoshi's absence will eventually draw a search. You're on borrowed time."

"It will," Tokimi concurred, her eyes narrowing, "but we're not about to leave here empty handed."

"I'm being paid way too much to back out now," Nagi added.

Heero shook his head as he cast a disdainful glance towards the bounty hunter. "Greed really has taken over your senses, I see. You know what you're aiding and abetting, don't you, Nagi? Is the money really worth it?"

Nagi said nothing, though the brief downward flicker of her eyes spoke volumes. Whatever doubts she had, though, Heero could not exploit, for the bounty hunter charged forward while Tokimi came in from the opposite direction. Determining that the incoming goddess was the bigger threat, Heero sent two of his Light Hawk Wings at Nagi to delay Nagi while turning to meet Tokimi head-on. The remaining two Light Hawk Wings flew forward, and while Tokimi elegantly leapt and twirled between them, those were not the only weapons Heero had aimed at her. He lunged forward, aiming the blazing azure blade of his Key right at her torso. Before his thrust could connect, though, he felt a sudden jab of pain in his neck.

"Oh, goodness; you forgot all about little old me, didn't you?"

Heero's eyes widened as he looked to his right and saw the child form of Tokimi that he had impaled on two Light Hawk Wings earlier floating next to him and looking no worse for wear apart from the holes in her clothes. It was only then that a wave of dizziness washed over Heero, and he saw child-Tokimi pull a syringe out of his neck.

"Damn it…" he snarled as he felt his legs go wobbly while blackness rapidly began to encroach from the edges of his vision.

He tried to keep his energy regulated, but focusing was quickly becoming impossible. The Light Hawk Wings flickered before fading, and the blue blade of his Key receded a few seconds later. Heero struggled mightily to stay upright, only for Nagi to strike from behind and entangle him in her whip.

"I'm sorry," he heard the bounty hunter mutter.

Then Heero's legs gave out, and he collapsed, with darkness taking him a moment later.

….

After putting her dagger away and binding Heero's hands behind his back, Nagi then seized his Key. She took a moment to admire the elegant craftsmanship of the weapon before glancing down at the main who had made and wielded it so skillfully, not for the first or last time with regret.

You really are something else, Heero Yuy, the bounty hunter thought, I wish you were in my line of work. You'd be the kind of competition that I'd like… or maybe even a partner.

From security officer on a backwater world to Juraian Royal and master swordsman… had she really only first encountered him less than half a year ago? It almost felt like a dream, though the aching wound in her shoulder was enough to remind her that she was wide awake.

"Kagato will want that," adult Tokimi noted, nodding at the weapon Nagi had just taken and holding out her hand.

Nagi shrugged before passing the Key over to her. "Fine by me. I'm just being paid to bring the target to him."

Adult Tokimi took the weapon, though like the bounty hunter she too spent a few seconds examining it. "To think that this is his personal Key… such a graceful design. I wasn't expecting this level of artistry from such a rough individual."

"He's full of surprises," child Tokimi chirped as she rubbed the parts of her torso that had been impaled upon Heero's Light Hawk Wings mere minutes ago, "Attacking with such viciousness, yet possessing an aesthetic eye worthy of a noble. Tsunami and Washu sure did find themselves an interesting candidate."

Adult Tokimi smiled. "That, they did."

"We need to go," Nagi said as she looked around warily, "I know our contacts took care of security, but with the kind of energy he was throwing around…"

"Someone will have picked up on it, yes?" came a male voice from behind them.

Whirling around, Nagi drew her saber and bit back a curse as she saw Yosho standing before them. In a single fluid motion, the old man drew and ignited Tenchi-ken, and Nagi once again found a blue Juraian energy blade pointed her way.

"Release my grandson," Yosho ordered, his voice calm but his glare utterly withering.

"Nope!" child Tokimi chortled with taunting glee as she scooped up Heero and slung him over her tiny shoulders like he was a sack of potatoes, "He's got an appointment with Kagato, and it'd be such a shame for him to miss it!"

Finding the girl's apparent joy at the situation distasteful, Nagi gestured over her shoulder at the unconscious Mihoshi. "We can't give him up, but he's the only we're taking. Take the girl, old man. She'll wake up sore, but no permanent harm's been done to her."

Perhaps Nagi's mixed feelings were leaking through, because the former crown prince softened his gaze. "It's not too late, bounty hunter. You can still make this right."

Nagi hesitated. Her professional instincts were telling her to scram; she had the target, but she wouldn't get the reward until he was brought to her client. Now was the time to get the hell out. Yet something stirred within her, holding her back for just a moment. Pangs of conscience, perhaps? It was almost a relief to know that she could still feel those.

They were quickly beaten back by a harsh look from adult Tokimi. "You knew what you were getting yourself into, Nagi. It is too late now."

"Yeah," Nagi murmured as she grabbed a spherical combination flash and smoke grenade from her utility belt, "I know."

She met Yosho's gaze one last time as she heard a series of rapidly approaching footsteps; no doubt more of her target's friends and family coming to the rescue. "Sorry, old man."

Yosho was already charging forward, and Nagi raised her saber by reflex. At the same time, she armed and chucked the spherical device in her left hand at the ground between her and Yosho. Quickly turning away, she followed both child and adult Tokimi over the railing towards the fountain and their escape route beyond. Her right hand went towards a communications device worn on her left wrist, her fingers working quickly to tune it to the right frequency.

"Ken-Ohki, be ready," she ordered, "We've got the target and are making a break for it!"

….

Quite the fascinating prize, Tokimi thought as she looked at the unconscious young man slung over her younger body's shoulders, I must admit, I'm very much looking forward to chatting with you later, Heero Yuy.

As she looked at him, there was a phantom sensation coming from her shoulders, as if the prince's weight was on her rather than her childish avatar. That was a byproduct of her rather unique situation, as the bulk of her consciousness was currently in the 'adult' body while she had a fragment of herself in the 'child' body to control it. When one body felt something, the other body could often experience an 'echo' of that original sensation. It went both ways, with Tokimi recalling a rather unpleasant pang coming from her torso when her child body had been impaled upon two of Heero's Light Hawk Wings. Shared pain might have been a drawback, but it was balanced out by the utility of being able to draw up on extra sets of eyes and ears, by having an extra perspective through which to view and interact upon the physical plane of the universe.

Glancing up at the young man she had slung over her shoulders as she floated between Nagi and adult Tokimi, child Tokimi then cast a knowing look at her older self. "Wishing you were me right now? Just say the word, and we can swap."

Adult Tokimi was suddenly confronted by the mental image of her carrying the unconscious prince. Initially, it was in same style as her younger avatar, but the picture soon shifted to her holding the young man in her arms, his head resting against her shoulder as she gazed down at him. It was a completely ridiculous scenario…

…yet not an unpleasant one.

Now was hardly the time for such indulgence, though. "Thanks, but I think I'll pass."

The younger body rolled her eyes. "Denial, eh? Whatever. I suppose you'll have plenty of time to play with him later."

"Make sure he's secure," Nagi snapped, "Ken-Ohki, now!"

As they reached the edge of the gardens behind the museum, a black-furred cabbit leapt out of one of the bushes. The adorable Ken-Ohki cried out as she rapidly ascended and transformed into her crystalline starship form, delicately maneuvering himself to avoid hitting any nearby structures. Thankfully, the area in which the museum was located was not like the downtown business and shopping districts; the region was not nearly so dominated by tightly packed skyscrapers, so Ken-Ohki had enough space to do his thing. Both Tokimis and the disguised Nagi were engulfed in bright violet light, and a moment later the trio found themselves aboard the living starship.

"Time to hope that the Nightshade's autopilot is as advanced as Kagato claimed," Nagi muttered as her hands flew across Ken-Ohki's console.

Tokimi smiled. "Your fears are misplaced. It will work."

"It better," Nagi growled, "Otherwise, we'll have to break through the orbital defenses the hard way, and I don't like our odds. Ken-Ohki, let's go!"

"Meow!" her trusty vessel cried out.

As the ship gained altitude and rocketed towards the west, adult Tokimi turned to her child form and took hold of the man slung over her shoulders. With great care, she laid Heero down on Ken-Ohki's gleaming silver-white floor.

"Best encase him quickly," her younger avatar advised, "The transition over to the Nightshade will be rough."

Adult Tokimi nodded. Gathering energy, she aimed the palms of both hands at the young man before her. A shroud of golden light formed around him, a shield that would protect him until she could get him aboard the Nightshade.

"That should suffice for now," Tokimi remarked as she glanced at her child form, "Keep him steady."

Her miniature self nodded. "Right."

Tokimi then went over to Ken-Ohki's console, standing just behind the bounty hunter. On the main screen, she saw the western inner wall of Seniwa City's massive dome rapidly growing closer with each passing second. Said wall, a latticework of thick support beams and windows, was said to be nearly impenetrable from the outside, its exterior surface protected by the most advanced energy shields that the Domain could manufacture.

What it was not designed for, though, was to protect against attacks coming from inside the dome.

"Alright, Ken-Ohki," Nagi commanded, "Hit it with everything you've got!"

"Meow!" Ken-Ohki enthusiastically replied.

A dozen powerful violet energy beams all converged on one of the broad transparent sheets ahead, punching through and sending shards flying outwards. The ship rocked beneath Tokimi's feet as it swiftly accelerated, and not a moment too soon. A mere split second after the living starship had passed through the gaping hole he'd shot in the dome, an emergency climate containment field materialized in the opening; Seniwa City's defenses placed a major emphasis on redundancy, an imperative given the harsh environment in which the domed habitat had been built.

"Punch it!" Nagi barked.

Ken-Ohki raced skywards. At the time, Tokimi caught sight of the Nightshade lifting off from the landing field below, rapidly climbing to match Ken-Ohki's altitude. The ship's stealth systems would be crucial for their escape, and the transfer over had to be as quick as possible; the Domain was already scrambling fighters from underground hangars, and Tokimi had no doubt that units up in orbit were preparing to intercept them once they breached the gravity well.

Drawing alongside the obsidian knife that was the Nightshade, Tokimi could not help but admire as Nagi deftly lined Ken-Ohki up with a docking umbilical that was extending from the black craft's starboard hull. The bounty hunter was a woman of many talents; it was a shame that she found motivation only from something as crude as credits.

"Okay, we're latched," Nagi announced a moment later before looking over her shoulder, "You ready?"

Adult Tokimi looked at her smaller half, who nodded. With a wave of her hand, Tokimi's child form levitated the unconscious prince and the energy field that encased him. The two of them headed towards the left side of Ken-Ohki's central chamber, with Nagi right behind them. The crystalline wall shifted and swirled, with a round opening appearing just a few seconds later.

"Alright, book it!" Nagi ordered.

The three of them raced through the opening and into the umbilical, immediately grabbing onto the side railings as the bounty hunter looked over her shoulder. "Ken-Ohki, now!"

"Meow!" Ken-Ohki acknowledged.

The crystalline starship disappeared, replaced by the black-dyed cabbit floating in space. Nagi had already reached out with her right arm, immediately grabbing Ken-Ohki and pulling him inside the docking umbilical even as the harsh vacuum of space threatened to take him and everyone else. The instant Ken-Ohki was within the umbilical the tube sealed itself shut, and not a moment too soon; Tokimi's younger avatar had nearly lost control of the energy field their prize was sealed within, and the ovoid of golden light bounced against the seal.

Adult Tokimi scowled at her child form, who offered a sheepish smile. "Oops."

Adult Tokimi rolled her eyes. "Never mind that. Let's get him inside and secure him properly before he wakes up. Bounty hunter…"

"Way ahead of you," Nagi cut her off, racing down the umbilical with Ken-Ohki perched on her shoulder, "We'll cloak and run silent until we're past the fleet, then we'll make the jump to lightspeed."

The umbilical slowly retracted as both adult and child Tokimi carefully moved the young prince towards the ship. Once they were inside the tube completed retracting and folded into the ship's hull, restoring the Nightshade's profile to its proper sleek state. The goddess and her miniature doppelganger took their captive to the ship's medical suite, bringing the energy field he was trapped in over a bed before releasing it. As young man dropped down, adult Tokimi wasted no time in securing him to the bed with specialized cuffs to both his hands and feet while her child form injected him with a paralytic agent; even when he woke up, he would not be going anywhere or using his powers anytime soon.

"So, who gets first watch?" child Tokimi asked.

Adult Tokimi took a seat next to the bed. "I will. Go up to the cockpit and help the bounty hunter with whatever she requires. No sass; we're counting on her expertise combined with the ship's advanced technology to get us out of here in one piece, so show due deference."

Child Tokimi sighed. "Fine, I'll behave, Mom."

I didn't think that splitting a portion of my essence off and putting it in a new body would result in such a personality divergence, Tokimi mused as her younger avatar left the room, I must say, this has been a rather fascinating experiment. Perhaps I'll keep her around for a while longer than I'd originally planned.

There was a much more interesting subject than her younger avatar to consider right now, though. Leaning forward slightly in her chair, she studied the unconscious young man with keen interest. As expected of the being that Washu and Tsunami were backing as their candidate, he was a most intriguing specimen. Already in possession of his own Master Key, capable of commanding four Light Hawk Wings without breaking a sweat despite only having awakened them a very short time ago…

…it was no wonder why Kagato was so focused on bringing him over to his side.

Seizing the Array might cow the galaxy into submission, Tokimi thought, but the situations in which its power may actually be used should, by necessity, be limited. Most occasions will call for a defter touch, where finesse and skill are key. This young man already has both in spades…

…and his potential for growth could be limitless.

….

Nagi had a death grip on the Nightshade's controls as she zig-zagged through Seniwa's snowy skies. She was climbing rapidly, but the bounty hunter could not keep a straight course; fighters were right on her tail, and surface emplacements were lighting her up with streams of yellow energy beams. Her craft was buffeted by glancing blows, and while the vessel's shields were more than capable of taking such hits, Nagi did not want to test their limits. She wanted to use the ship's cloaking device, but there was a problem; activating it would take practically all power away from the vessel's shields, and she did not dare do that while she was under fire.

Can't dance around like this forever, she told herself as she barrel-rolled to avoid a stream of plasma bolts from a pursuing T-shaped Sparrowhawk Interceptor, I'm going to get swarmed if this keeps up. Need to find cover so I can activate the cloak.

"Oh, I see you're having fun," a familiar female voice chirped from behind.

Nagi could not spare so much as a glance as child Tokimi floated into the cockpit; the slightest distraction would mean death. Still, she did grimace as the youthful avatar settled into the copilot's chair. The creepy kid was hardly Nagi's first choice to have as company.

"Don't worry," the girl added, "I'm only here to help."

"Leave the flying to me," Nagi grunted between breathes as she bobbed and weaved through the storm of energy beams, "If you want to make yourself useful, take control of the rear turret. I don't care if you hit anything; just throw around enough fire to discourage pursuit."

"So little faith," child Tokimi remarked as her fingers danced across the console before she took the firing controls in hand and eyed the small targeting screen, "I'd like to think that I'm capable of being more than just spraying bolts around."

"Then prove me wrong and hit something," Nagi grumbled, "Whatever you do, just keep them off my back long enough for me to find some cover so I can activate the cloak."

"As you wish," child Tokimi replied.

As her short-statured copilot started taking shots at the pursuing fighters, Nagi scanned her surroundings. The Nightshade had already gained quite a bit of altitude, and she was climbing higher and higher with each passing second. She would reach low orbit very soon, and Seniwa's Home Fleet would be waiting for her. Nagi could picture them now, all lined up beyond the World Ring and ready to pounce.

Wait a second… the World Ring…

…that's it!

A small smile graced Nagi's lips as the sky ahead grew darker and darker, which prompted a giggle from her copilot. "Someone's suddenly in a good mood. What's brought this on?"

"I just figured out what our cover's going to be," Nagi replied, "Keep the fighters off our tail."

"Oh, the huntress has a cunning plan now?" child Tokimi cooed, her purple eyes alight with excitement, "Well, this should be fun!"

"I don't know about fun," Nagi muttered, "but if we play our cards right, it'll get us out of this alive."

If we can survive the next few minutes, that is.

….

Standing on the bridge of the Seniwa Navy fleet carrier Hyō Arashi, Admiral Ryota Suzuki tapped the arm of his chair impatiently. Well-seasoned, having served long enough for his blond hair to turn snow-white while his once bright blue eyes now had a dark and world-weary edge to them, the veteran commander had been caught off guard by the sudden orders to array his force to intercept a target fleeing Seniwa; he was used to interdicting threats from outside the Domain's capital rather than within it. Complicating matters further was the fact that this particular target had to be taken intact, and the consequences of accidentally destroying it could be apocalyptic.

Jurai's new prince might be from the backwater Outland Sector, the Admiral thought, but the Empire's Royal Family won't care about such a trivial detail if we kill him by mistake. Hailing from an underdeveloped world or not, he's still a scion of the main line; his death at our hands could potentially mean war between the Domain and the Empire.

The Captain of the Hyō Arashi, a tall and willowy woman with sandy-blonde hair and silver eyes named Kayo Fukui, seemed no less apprehensive than Ryota. Her arms were folded while her left foot rhythmically tapped against the gleaming floor, a gesture that Ryota had long ago learned to associate with nervousness. Given the incredibly high stakes of this out-of-the-blue operation, he could hardly blame her.

"We're lucky the surface units didn't destroy the target," Kayo remarked with a shake of her head, "What were they thinking, firing lethally one the ship carrying the prince? They have ion weapons just like we do, for crying out loud!"

"Which are best used in outer space," Ryota reminded her, "Had they disabled the target in atmosphere, then it would've crashed on the surface. The results would almost certainly have been fatal. Not exactly conducive to accomplishing this particular mission, wouldn't you agree?"

Kayo sighed. "Right. Sorry, Admiral."

Ryota shook his head. "No need for apologies, Captain. Let's just focus on doing our job, shall we?"

"Of course," Kayo replied before turning to the carrier's flight control officer, "Are the Ion Sparrows in position?"

"829th and 831st Squadrons confirm they're ready for intercept," the officer in question answered, "Squadrons from our subordinate carriers are sending their confirmations as well."

The mainstay light fighter of the Seniwa Domain, the Sparrowhawk Interceptor was normally armed with a pair of plasma cannons mounted atop the craft's nose and a single missile launcher on the underside of the fuselage. However, understanding that there were situations in which targets needed to be taken intact, Seniwa had also produced a variant of the fighter known as the Ion Sparrow. It used the same T-shaped hull design as the base model, but it swapped out the missile launcher for an ion cannon that was designed to short out the electronics of hostile ships. Since the Ion Sparrow was just as small as her more lethally-armed cousin, the single ion cannon wasn't nearly as powerful as those that could be found on Seniwa warships, which is why the craft was operated at the squadron level; concentrated fire from multiple fighters could easily make up for the weak individual guns.

Working in cooperation with the Ion Sparrows were dozens of seed-shaped Kabutomushi-class picket corvettes. 105 meters in length, the Kabutomushi-classwas a common sight within Seniwa Domain space. Designed for internal security and interdiction rather than frontline combat, the corvette carried a mixture of plasma and ion cannons, the latter of which tended to get more use since the vessel typically found itself running down and disabling smugglers and pirates. The class also came equipped with an unusually powerful tractor beam generator for a ship of its size, and Ryota was heavily betting on it for this operation.

Simple plan, he reminded himself, Ion Sparrows intercept as the first line while the corvettes support. Once the target's disabled, multiple corvettes will secure it with overlapping tractor beams. Then we pull the target inside the carrier's ventral hangar entrance and breach.

Timing was crucial; they had to disable the target while it was still within Seniwa's gravity well in order to prevent a lightspeed jump. However, if they disabled the target too early, then the ship would almost certainly fall back to the planet and be destroyed in the ensuing crash. Attack too late and there was a good chance of the target evading fire long enough to clear the gravity well and make the lightspeed jump. An additional wrinkle was Seniwa's World Ring, which the target had yet to clear. Engagement near the World Ring was explicitly forbidden out of concern for the vital shipyards.

Kayo was just as aware of these concerns as Ryota. "How soon until the target's in open space?"

"Target's current course will intersect with the World Ring in three minutes," the carrier's sensor officer replied, "At present speed, target will enter permissible engagement zone 45 seconds after that."

"225 seconds until we can attack," Ryota muttered, "This is why I hate engagements in capital space."

"What's the traffic situation?" asked Kayo.

"World Ring and Seniwa Control confirm all civilian ships along the target's projected course have been diverted," the communications officer chimed in.

Ryota let out a relieved exhalation. "Small favors."

Kayo nodded. "I'll take what we can get."

The next few minutes passed by all too slowly. Ryota's gaze was glued to the main bridge display, which had a tactical overview of Seniwa, the target, the World Ring, and his ships waiting beyond. The red dot that symbolized the target seemed to be moving at a snail's pace, though Ryota knew it was anything but; reports from the surface squadrons tailing it indicated that the ship was quite quick.

Eventually, the red dot merged with the World Ring, which Ryota took as his cue. "Make sure the interceptors have ion cannons primed. They are clear to engage as soon as the target enters the designated zone."

Ryota's eyes narrowed as he studied the display. The red dot representing the target had vanished, but that was not too unusual; given how massive the World Ring was, it could interfere with sensors and block the signatures of ships passing behind, above or below. The Admiral patiently waited for the red dot to reappear as the vessel passed the shipyards.

Only it never did.

"What the hell?" Kayo murmured as the last 45 seconds came and went.

Ryota scowled. "What happened? Where is it?"

"I don't know, sir," the sensor officer replied, "It's completely disappeared."

"Did it crash into the World Ring?" asked Kayo.

"World Ring Control reports no impacts along the target's projected course," the communications officer answered.

"It could be hugging the surface of the World Ring," Ryota suggested, "Lingering just above or below to keep its signature merged and make us think it's vanished."

"Comms, tell World Ring Control to engage visual scanning," Kayo ordered, "The target's close enough that they must be able to see it."

A few seconds went by before the communications officer got back to her. "World Ring Control reports no sighting of target, visual or otherwise. It's just… gone."

….

"Moment of truth," Nagi murmured as she took the cloaked Nightshade out of the World Ring's shadow.

She had a death-grip on the controls, ready to jerk the craft into violent evasive maneuvers at the drop of a hat. That proved to be unnecessary, though, for as she flew the vessel into open space Seniwa's local forces made no moves to intercept. The fighters circled about aimlessly, while the picket corvettes and larger warships just floated behind them. No plasma beams, ion bolts or missiles came her way, and there were no hails demanding her surrender. For all intents and purposes, the Nightshade truly had dropped off the face of the galaxy.

"I'll be damned…" Nagi whispered.

Child Tokimi smiled smugly as she leaned back in the copilot's seat. "You see? Nothing to worry about."

"Don't jinx it," the bounty hunter quipped.

Child Tokimi rolled her eyes as the Nightshade gradually accelerated. "There's no call for such superstitions or paranoia."

"I'll believe that when the contract's complete," Nagi muttered.

She scanned her surroundings carefully to see if the increase in power to the ship's engines was eliciting any reaction from the Seniwa Navy, but the cloak appeared to be doing its job well; none of the vessel's energy was leaking through. Somewhat reassured, Nagi increased the throttle, determined to get past the fleet and as far out into the star system's fringe as possible before deactivating the cloak and making the lightspeed jump.

"How does it feel?" child Tokimi prodded as the vessel passed fighter squadrons and picket corvettes, "Knowing that this is the last time you can set foot in Seniwa space?"

"Quiet," Nagi grumbled.

Child Tokimi laughed. "What's the matter, you think they'll hear us? Don't be ridiculous!"

"Quiet," Nagi repeated with a scowl, "I'm not in the mood."

Child Tokimi let out a theatrical sigh. "Oh, fine. I did tell Mother that I'd behave. Even so… you know what you've done. Now your bridges with both Jurai and Seniwa are truly burned. Even the Galaxy Police will want nothing to do with you from here on out, despite all the criminals you caught for them in the past. You are now one of the very crooks that you've spent your life hunting. You're past the point of no return now, Nagi. There's no sense in denying it."

"I never did deny it," Nagi growled, her gaze drifting nervously upwards towards the carrier that she would soon be flying beneath, "I knew what I was getting into when I signed up for this job."

"So you keep saying," child Tokimi remarked with a smirk, "I wonder how much of you truly believes that."

Nagi pointedly ignored her copilot. She could use focusing on the job as an excuse for doing so, but in truth, the bounty hunter simply did not have a good retort on hand. If anything, the girl's words were hitting a bit closer to home than she was comfortable admitting.

This retainer with Kagato's been rubbing you the wrong way for a while now, a voice in her head whispered, and there's only so much that the money can do to alleviate that. How much longer can you keep this up?

She resisted the urge to shake her head and thus let her onlooker in on her inner turmoil. Nagi had already made up her mind; this job was the last. Once it was over and she had the money, she was getting the hell out. The bounty hunter already had a shortlist of worlds beyond Juraian, Seniwan, and Galaxy Police jurisdiction that she was considering making a run to, and she would spend the flight back to Kiryūin narrowing it down further. The nice thing about her lifestyle was that she did not have much in the way of material possessions or connections to worry about; all of her most important items were kept with her or in a series of out-of-the-way safehouses, and the only individual that she had a truly valuable connection to was Ken-Ohki. Everyone else in her life was just a business associate or rival, and both would be easy enough to leave behind with the reward from this job.

All she had to do was complete the contract, and she could close out this chapter of her life. Kidnapping Juraian Royalty was not the sort of job Nagi had imagined she would be ending her bounty hunting career on, but she was no stranger to rolling with life's punches. While the impending payday glimmered in her mind, it cast a dark shadow in the form of the young man that she would soon be leaving in the custody of two cadet branch royals that were increasingly striking Nagi as less than sane. It left a decidedly sour taste in her mouth.

Try as she might, she could not banish the prince's face from her mind. Why was that? It sure was not because of his looks; sure, he was very easy on the eyes, but so were plenty of other bounties that Nagi had brought in without hesitation. His fighting skills? He was certainly a better fighter than most her targets, and Nagi held his abilities in high regard, but that respect only meant she had taken him seriously as a bounty. Perhaps it was something simpler…

…like the knowledge that she would be handing over a good man to a pair of psychos.

That knowledge continued to haunt her as she took her invisible ship past the formidable Seniwa Home Fleet, and would not fade even after she left the star system.

Preview for next time!

Duo: Well… shit.

Hilde: I can't believe they were able to nab Heero like that! I hope he's okay…

Trowa: This is a problem.

Wufei: Understatement of the year.

Quatre: What a mess. This could jeopardize the entire alliance we're trying to build.

Ryoko: Damn it, I totally screwed up!

Yosho: If it makes you feel any better, you're not alone in that.

Kiyone: Mihoshi, are you alright?

Mihoshi: I was completely useless. I couldn't protect Heero at all!

Sasami: The important thing is that you're still with us, though. Together, we'll go save Heero!

Ayeka: We must go after him at once! Oh, uhm… do we know where he's being taken?

Washu: I can hazard a pretty good guess.

Funaho: And my sources in intelligence and the navy will help confirm it.

Moriko: Next time, in Chapter Thirty: No Need For Ambitious Persuasion! I can only imagine why Kagato wanted to take Heero alive…

Kagato: I've been looking forward to this. Heero, why don't we sit down for a nice chat? After that, you can spar with my sister; she's quite eager to go a round with you. Excellent work, bounty hunter. You've more than earned that hundred million.

Nagi: Right…

Author's Notes: Seeing how smoothly things were going for our heroes, it was only a matter of time before I threw them a curveball. Call me old fashioned, but I've always been a fan of villains trying to convince the protagonist to join their cause. There's just something about watching that sort of interaction play out that hits all the right buttons for me. When it's a high-class villain like Kagato… well, let's just say that I'm really looking forward to writing the scenes between him and Heero in the next chapter!

Hope you all enjoyed the chapter. Feel free to review, stay safe, and I'll see you all next time!