Earth, the night before:
Special Agent Smith, Smith not being his real name, was one of the last three members of the Royal Intelligence Service of Crystal Tokyo in the office. Even the boss, Major Urawa, had left for home already and the other two agents were the ones on duty tonight.
He on the other side was finishing a report on the state of dangers for the Kingdom going out from the Yakuza.
He had his holo projector on and casually watched it besides his work. He knew that Ambassador Gurio and her husband, the Chief Official of the Kingdom's beaurucrats, were on Coruscant and at a reception of the Ministry of Commerce and so the agent had the most famous of the channels that were basically the yellow press in motion running, reporting live from the red carpet. Just in case.
The War, the new acquired members of the GFFA and young and outstanding politicians like Senator Hino had sparked the public interest in political events like that.
Suddenly something caught his eye.
The host was getting nervous and Agent Smith looked up to the broadcast.
He was very surprised to see Captain SunTzu at the reception. And even more that he seemed to be officially accompanying a young blonde woman. It was nothing new that SunTzu, after leaving the Taskforce and breaking up with the Senator, developed a certain behavior of having quickly changing partners but Smith couldn't think about any occasion SunTzu actually showed up with one of his lovers in public. And now the blonde was linked in in his arm and after a moment he even introduced her to the media.
Agent Smith took a pen and a piece of paper and wrote down the infos he got from the broadcast. As far as he knew this kingdom someone would want more infos of the young woman, the Princess of Linta, as SunTzu had announced her.
Coruscant, present day at noon:
The Princess from Linta and the Pilot from Earth stayed together for a few more hours, which involved brunch in bed, a shower together and lots of nefarious lovemaking.
SunTzu flew a Anniten to her hotel, where Dischna was already waiting for her princess in front of it.
The woman was glowering at SunTzu but stayed at the entrance.
SunTzu had been flying with Anniten on his lap in the front seat, AICA had been transformed into one seat configuration. And Anniten turned to around to face SunTzu.
"I'll need a few days, but I let you know immediately when I can leave Linta again."
"Like i said I can visit you there."
She shot him an amused smile.
"And like I already told you, they probably wouldn't even let you near me as non member of the Royal Court. I can even already hear my father's yelling when he sees our pictures from yesterday."
She hugged him tight.
"But I'll be writing you whenever I can and be ready for long romantic holocalls and raunchy nudes."
"Sounds great. Let me know, when you landed safely."
"Will do."
They shared a passionate kiss.
"Take care out there, Soldierboy."
"I will. Maybe I take some days off. You know, take a break, while I wait for you."
"Sounds better than war. Anyways, I gotta leave before Sem explodes."
She kissed him again and then he opened the canopy, and both climbed out.
Anniten gave him a last kiss and then walked over to the frowning Dischna, who she greeted happily with a kiss on the cheek.
Before she disappeared in the hotel she turned around again and waved at SunTzu.
SunTzu waved back and when she was gone, he got back into AICA and lifted off again.
AICA had been airborne for just half a minute when she announced an incoming call.
"Who is it, AICA?"
"You're favorite turquoise haired wingman."
SunTzu took the call immediately.
"Michiru, ma cherie! How is my favorite gunner in the Galaxy?"
"Moshi Moshi, Nii-chan. I'm glad I reached you. I have to talk about something with you. You know what tomorrow is, right?"
"Of course. Good that you call, don't be surprised if there's someone delivering a new motorcycle for Haruka tomorrow. I thought the new Ninja would be a fitting surprise."
"Err… okay. That is a very nice surprise and I think Haruka will be delighted."
A pause followed.
"She's still mad, isn't she Michiru?"
"Well, mad is maybe not the right word. I think when you jumped away after she and Rei went after you, you hurt her."
Another pause.
"It wasn't my intention to hurt her. But I couldn't have stayed any longer."
"I understand you. And I'm pretty sure Haruka misses you, probably even more than I do. So, this is why I called. Where are you? And what are you doing tomorrow evening?"
SunTzu got back to his hotel suite. He was in a great mood. His heart was fulfilled thinking about Anniten and when Michiru had invited him to join them tomorrow evening to have a drink, or rather a dozen knowing his blonde wingman, for Haruka's birthday he had enough self-confidence to not find an excuse but confirmed. He was a bit nervous about it, as he wasn't sure how Haruka would react but Michiru assured him she was there and would take care.
She also would try to bring Setsuna on board as voice of reason.
So SunTzu had decided to leave tomorrow for Earth and stay for a few days. Hotaru would be happy to get a few hours of flying with AICA in he was sure. Maybe he could even accompany her on the occasion and see how good she still was.
And he could spent some times doing the things he liked to do in Tokyo, for example he was firmly dedicated to have a coffee in that one spot in Juban he always had liked so much. Or walk through some Urban Art Spots.
It would be nice, taking it easy for a few days before Anniten would be back. He had to, he really had to admit his batteries were empty. The last months had drained him.
And today he would do some proper physical and mental exercise. AICA had been right, he had been slacking lately and he wanted to get back to track. And he would be starting that today.
Ten minutes after arriving at his hotel room he was already on the way to the spacious gym of the Hotel.
Later on SunTzu even tried to meditate and do a bit of Force training. His connection to the Force felt hazy lately, as he wasn't fully connected to it anymore. Or if something was blocking him.
He tried for over an hour and than he gave up. Maybe next time, it wasn't that he lost his connection to the Force, he just needed more training. Or patience.
And since he was pretty sure that things would get more stable in his life again with Anniten he would be back to his old self soon.
Earth, earlier that morning:
"Do you think she will mind?"
"She always says, that she's completely over him."
"She said the same about Yuichiro and look at them now. And SunTzu and her were as close as her and Yuichiro."
"Do you really think so? I hope she won't get angry then. She can be so unbearably mean if she's angry."
"There she comes. Hid the pictures, Ami. Quickly!"
The three Inner Senshi and their Queen hastily hid the pictures Ami had taken from the recording of yesterday night's broadcast from the reception at the Ministry of Commerce, while the fourth Inner was walking up to their table at the Mess Hall.
The girls had arranged to have breakfast together before they went on with their daily work. The Taskforce would head out soon again and everybody was busy getting ready for it.
When Ami had arrived at the office this morning, Special Agent Smith had put a note on her desk.
It told the name and basic info about a woman called Anniten Alesima, a princess from a small planet somewhere in the Rim.
And under all the information was written that she apparently was Captain SunTzu's new girlfriend.
This had done more than just to spark her curiosity, it had been a few days since her and SunTzu, or her and Ada, had talked with each other and she wondered what had happened.
She was just about to get a look at this princess on her own, when her mobile phone rang and her still sleepy but overly-excited Queen broke her news that she already knew.
Naru had written her in the night, she even had managed to secretly snap a picture of the First Knight and his new lover.
In a hurry an emergency meeting, before the actual breakfast, between Usagi, Ami, Makoto and Minako was scheduled, to decide how and if to break this news to Rei. And if the Court would approve of the Guardian of Guardian's new girlfriend.
Because a certain Monarch was late the meeting was cut short though and they couldn't really talk about how to handle this situation.
"How come even you're here already, Royal Bunhead?" Rei asked and the girls exchanged glances among themselves.
Did she already know?
"Whatever. You don't have to answer me." Rei said a moment later after she didn't receive an answer and sat down.
She noticed that the girls were all staring at her.
"What's the matter? Is something wrong?"
Another exchange of glances but this time all the girl's eyes fell onto Usagi after a moment. It was up to their Ruler to tell Rei.
"Uhm, Rei… please don't get angry but there is something we have to tell you."
Rei looked questioningly into the round.
"What is it? And why are you all acting so weird?"
Usagi looked over to Ami.
"Ami, show her the pics." The Monarch told her blue haired friend.
Ami cleared her throat and produced the pictures showing SunTzu and his presumed girlfriend and laid them on the table before she slid them over to Rei.
"What's that? Ohhh…" Rei fell silent and had a closer look at each of the pictures while the other women shared looks with each other again.
"Rei?" Minako asked coyly after a moment but Rei didn't look at her.
"Rei-Chan?" Minako asked again. "Are you okay?"
"I… yeah, sure. I mean, I expected another dark haired and not a blonde. But hey, I mean we broke up three months ago and I'm with Yuichiro now. He seems fond of her and she looks pretty. She seems a bit young though, so I don't know if it's something really serious. You know how girls are in that age." She finally looked up from the pictures and showed a forced smile.
"I hope they are happy together."
Another exchange of looks between the friends, of course the pictures had stirred up something in Rei.
And then she looked at her watch.
"Oh wow, so late already! I have this important call coming in from Coruscant soon, I forgot to tell you." She stood up. "Catch up with you guys later."
"Rei?" Ami asked her softly.
"Sorry, it's a really important call. I gotta go." And then she walked away with fast steps, rushing out of the building, while the girls' glances followed her.
"Yup, she definitely is hurt." Makoto was the first one to say something.
"Yeah…" Usagi replied with a sad voice.
"What was she expecting?" The three other heads turned to Minako.
"It didn't take a month until she was back together with Yuichiro, it's just fair if she grants SunTzu new happiness as well. He didn't leave out of a spontaneous mood as you all know."
The others fell silent, Minako did have a point and they all knew that the breakup almost broke SunTzu.
They finished their breakfast and we're about to get back to their tasks.
"Hey Mako, mind if I tag along with your morning run? Artemis told me I that as first of the Senshi I have to be an example, which also means when it comes to my fitness. And although I hate to admit it, Catmiral Whitefur is right."
"Yeah, sure. I was about to head out."
"I'll join as well." Heads turned to Usagi.
"Mamo pretty much said the same to me." The Queen said embarrased.
"Ami, you come along as well?" Makoto asked.
"Oh, sorry. I got important work to do. I need to get to the range later anyway, I will jog over there then. Stress shooting is more realistic anyway."
Twenty minutes later the Head of Crystal Tokyo's Intelligence Service arrived at the Office of the Diplomatic Corps and Galactic Senator in the Palace.
Ami went straight for Rei's office and the receptionist tried to stop her.
"Miss Hino doesn't receive visitors at the moment."
Ami held a hand up while walking past the receptionist's desk.
"I'm not a visitor, I'm a friend."
At Rei's door she knocked.
"I'm busy." Came from the other side of the door.
Ami opened the door and stepped inside.
"We all are."
"Oh, Ami." Was Rei's short answer. She looked sad.
Ami sat down at one of the chairs in front of Rei's desk.
"How was your call with Coruscant?" Ami asked with a stern voice.
Rei sighed.
"Can't lie to a spy I guess."
"Rather to a friend." A quick pause. "How do you really feel?"
Rei looked at her with a forced smile.
"I didn't cry." She paused again. "But it's hitting harder than I thought. And I hate myself for it, because I'm the one who had a new boyfriend for the last three months while he wrecked himself most of that time. And now I can't be happy for him because he moved on."
"Don't be so hard with yourself, Rei. What you two had was something so special and deep that of course this is affecting you now."
Rei looked at the wall for a moment.
"I love Yuichiro. With all my being. But SunTzu will always have a special place in my heart, and my soul. With our psychic abilities and soul bonding our relationship went deeper than love and why he might not be the one, there will always be a part of me who loves him. That stupid, suicidal Personification of War." She giggled. "Gods, I hope TopGun doesn't mess this up again."
She turned to Ami again and straightened herself.
"You still got the pictures?"
Ami grabbed into her jacket and pulled a picture out, which she then laid on the table.
Rei took it and glanced at it.
"You know there's something about this girl I don't like. I don't know if it's her age. Or because she's a blonde and not dark-haired, or... I, don't know, something just bugs me about her."
"She's twenty three and a Princess."
Rei took another glance at the picture and then shook her head. Seeing that blonde felt off somehow.
But then she handed the picture back to Ami.
"Phew, talking about it actually helped. Thank you Ami."
"That's what friends are for, Rei-Chan."
The two close friends smiled at each other.
"Oh, Rei, by the way. Usagi wants to schedule a meeting with you, me and Artemis. I suppose it's about the state of the Galaxy and our readiness."
"I don't know about our readiness but the state of the Galaxy is obviously getting shittier by the day."
Ami had to nod, the War wasn't exactly going well. Not that the Core Worlds were in danger but there were hundreds of contested planets and systems and every day there were more.
It was about time that they got back into the fight, away from third and second line escort and scouting missions and back to the front, where they could really make a difference
They held their meeting in the early afternoon, in the Throne Room.
As expected it was about the readiness of the Taskforce, the overall security situation and the state of the Galaxy. Luna, Naru and Umino, the two latter straight coming from their flight from Coruscant, participated as well.
Neo Queen Serenity, knowing how important this meeting was, was like a changed person compared to this morning. Concentrated she listened to the statements of her Admiral, her Galactic Senator, her Head of Intelligence, Ambassador to the United Nations and her Chief Official of the Kingdom.
While Crystal Tokyo was flourishing, both in growth of inhabitants and every financial aspect as well when it came to the weigh of it's state in Terran matters, the Galactic Alliance clearly had seen better days and a certain disunion had become apparent lately, between the parts of the Alliance that wanted to act more aggressively and the ones who wanted to go a more peaceful way.
After the meeting, Neo Queen Serenity, wearing one of her white dresses and her crown, asked Rei to stay for another moment. Rei was standing away a few steps from the Queen's throne.
They waited until everybody else had left and Ami, as last one leaving, had closed the door behind her.
Rei turned to her Queen, she had noticed that Usagi had been demure the whole meeting and still was.
"What's the matter, Usagi? Are you also worrying with me because my Ex has a new girl?"
"I do Rei-Chan. I can imagine, that you're more hurt than you admit but that's not why I wanted you to stay. There is something even more important I have to talk about with you."
"More important than my love life? What could that be?" Rei scoffed sarcastically.
"You heard Ami and Artemis. We're not necessarily loosing this War, at least right now, but we're far from winning. Everyday thousands of people die, be it soldiers of the Galactic Alliance or innocent inhabitants of the Galaxy."
"I know. And you know that I thoroughly support our stance in the Senate. Earth is a firm supporter of a more aggressive approach in the Shadow War. Even though I don't fight anymore and rather would choose peace myself."
"And that's why I wanted to talk with you in private. I want you to get back to fighting."
"No way." Rei immediately replied. "You know I do anything in the Senate to support the war effort but I swore off fighting. Look what fighting made SunTzu become."
"Rei, have you heard about the Ghost of the Core?"
"That legend of that black starfighter who comes out of nowhere and saves ships and turns battles? Sounds like a overglorified SunTzu."
"Rei, it's not a legend. And it sounds like SunTzu because it is SunTzu."
Rei snorted. "Of course, he never let's a battle slip. Personification of War, just as everyone wanted him to become."
"Rei, do you have any idea how many battles, which were already lost, he turned around? How many individuals he safed. How many systems?"
"And what became of his soul?"
"You saw the picture. He seemed to have picked up his courage again. But that's not the point. It's not even about him becoming what the Prophecy told about him. It's about that he's a symbol. Someone people can get behind, someone that gives them hope."
Rei remained silent, looking away.
"And it's not only him. You do know the Star Sheriffs. It's the same with them. Jacen Solo, the Twin Suns. All over the Galaxy there is this indidviduals where people rally behind. And we need that, more than anything else we need hope and symbols that spread this hope."
Rei looked back at Usagi and the blonde Monarch got up from her throne and stepped down the step which separated the thrones from the room. She motioned Rei to sit down next to her on the stair while she sat down.
"You know that Crystal Tokyo was always built as beacon of unbreakable hope. And that's what I want Taskforce Sol to become as well, a beacon of light and hope. For more than Earth. For the sake of this Galaxy."
Rei sat down next to her and Usagi leaned her head against the raven haired's shoulder.
"But for this I need my Senshi with me. All of them. As they were destined to, fighting alongside me, while we bring light into the Galaxy and save it from harm."
"Usagi… I…"
"Rei. I'm not forcing you to do anything. But the Galaxy, we, I need you. The Fighting Senator."
"That was just a nickname, back before I had fully realized what war does to people. And you're not even the first one to tell me to get back to fighting, Minako and even Yuichiro already told me so as well already. But they didn't experience what I did."
"I know it was hard for you to see SunTzu become what he became but don't forget your destiny, Princess Mars. As SunTzu needs to become what his destiny is."
"That's not fair Usagi."
Usagi smiled.
"I know. But look at me. Meathead Usagi being the ruler of Crystal Tokyo and most powerful woman on Earth. You can't run away from your destiny."
"I know. You probably heard about Set's and Ami's new theory about the shift of our soulmates and the destiny of who will be our companions. And here I am, back with Yuichiro." She looked at Usagi.
"And still Meanie Rei begrudges SunTzu's new girlfriend."
Both girls giggled as the comment took away some of the seriousness of the conversation.
"Yeah. A blonde! What the Yomi? Not that there would have been so much better alternatives. And no, I'm not talking about me. I'm more than happy with Yuichiro, I just want SunTzu to be safe and find his happiness."
"You know I always had a thing for Yuichiro. And I also think highly think of you for still caring about SunTzu that much. The breakup wasn't easy for the both of you."
"Well, I guess we're both over it now."
Rei clinged her head with Usagi.
"I'll think about rejoining the battle. Maybe you're right, maybe it's time that the Fighting Senator comes back. I mean, the people loved her. And after all, even my long haired baka of boyfriend joins the Taskforce."
"He gives Mamoru and Haruka a run for their money with his blades. I might have to make him a Knight of Crystal Tokyo soon."
The two close friends laughed loud and then clinged heads again and stayed like that for another while, chatting with each other and giggeling.
Coruscant, the next day:
SunTzu had just checked out of the hotel and was about to board AICA.
Before he had left he double checked that Earth was safe, minimizing the chances to attract any danger but the ESDF was patrolling in full strength, TF Sol was combat ready and there were even RASP-Cruisers patrolling the CTE. It was as safe as it could get.
Yesterday evening he and Anniten found time to call each other and he had asked her if it was okay if he would have a drink with his former wingman, as it would be her birthday.
The princess's answer was not what he had expected.
"It's cool. I thought we take it easy anyway. It's not that I'm planning on marrying soon." She had said, no anger or jealousy in her voice.
Okay…
"But don't forget that I really like you and that I miss you. But let's take it easy, okay? Anyways, I gotta get going. I'll text you later."
With that she hung up and SunTzu asked himself for the first time if their age difference might become a problem. He felt a bit stupid for his commitment and began to think about her words from the days before. She sure was something and for a moment he asked himself if she was doing this on purpose but discarded the thought quickly. He was too busy with his ego and his feelings for her, deep down it bugged him, he wanted her for him, him alone.
As he was sitting in AICA's cockpit, ready to go, he shot her a message.
I'm off to Earth :)
To his surprise the answer came back immediately.
Have fun Soldierboy! Don't forget you have to show me Earth soon. And let me know when you feel lonely, I might have things in store to cheer you up ;)
:-*
He smiled and then activated the repulsors. This was reassuring, now he only had to worry about Haruka beating him up.
Earth, afternoon:
Michiru was buzzing all over the place, trying to be the best host one can be, although her guests were her and Haruka's best friends and all would have enjoyed themselves greatly even without the superb hospitality.
Apart from their regular friends, all the Senshi, the whole Royal Family and the Mau were there as well.
Except for one. Setsuna, she was busy saving lives in the Hospital of Juban. It was her last week before transferring over to the new Hospital in the North of Crystal Tokyo, just a few subway stations away from the Palace.
Earlier that day Haruka, she and Michiru were off duty today, had recieved a special surprise. At least it had been a surprise for Haruka, as she was standing in front of the brand new Kawasaki Ninja in royal blue and yellow, Haruka's colors.
Michiru could see that she was blown away from the gift but still she downplayed it.
"But that still doesn't mean that I talk to him ever again."
Michiru sighed, tonight would be interesting at least.
Right now the teal haired was in the kitchen of their apartment and filled up bowls with snacks. Two certain members of the Royal Family and a certain First of the Senshi had emptied them all already.
Haruka was at the balcony with Makoto, Mamoru and Rei, taking a look at her new motorcycle from above while she had a glass of champagne in one hand and a cigar in the other.
Ami, the spouses of her and Makoto, as well as Yuichiro and most of the other guests were scattered around the apartment, taking a look at Michiru's newest pieces of arts, either done by herself or bought.
Beside her was Hotaru, helping her old foster mother with the hospitality of the guests.
"You're the best, Hotaru." She smiled at the teenager.
"What can I say, my parents raised me well." The raven haired winked at her with a smile, making Michiru smile as well.
Suddenly it rang at the door.
"That's Setsuna-Mama!"
Her adoptive mother had texted her a bit earlier that she was coming over now.
Hotaru jumped away and rushed to the door, leaving Michiru behind with a grin. Even after all this years, Hotaru could be such a whirlwind if she wanted too.
Happily greeted with a peck on the cheek by her adoptive daughter, Setsuna entered the apartment.
She asked Hotaru where Haruka was and the teenager pointed to the balcony.
"I already gave her her gift. She was very happy." Mother and daughter had a gift together for their blond friend. She began to make her way towards the balcony greeting everyone she came past on the way, taking extra times for big hugs with Chibiusa and Diana.
"What's with you pilots that you always have to smoke? As if you don't live dangerously enough. And a smoking Galactic Senator just screams cardiovascular problems in the future as well." The dark green haired doctor said with a grin as she stepped out on the balcony.
"Hello Ancient One." Haruka greeted her with a smile and opened her arms for an embrace.
"Happy Birthday, Haruka." Setsuna wished her friend as they both hugged.
Then she greeted the rest of the attendants on the balcony.
"I'll see if I can take away some work from Michiru."
Setsuna almost had left the balcony when Rei stopped her.
"Setsuna, there's something I have to talk about with you. In private." The younger Senshi told the older Senshi with a hushed voice.
Surprised Setsuna looked at her, wondering what this was about.
"Sure. Let's head for the kitchen?"
Rei nodded and both left the balcony.
"You go and enjoy your girlfriend's party a bit, I'll take care here."
Setsuna said and shuffled Michiru outside of the room, although not before the Senshi of the Deep Sea grabbed the now filled up again bowls with snacks.
When she was out, Setsuna turned around and walked back to Rei, who had been waiting at the kitchen counter.
"So, what is it, Rei? Something happened?
"I guess. You haven't heard it yet, have you?"
"Heard what, Rei?"
"I guess it's good you hear it from me then. SunTzu apparently has a new girlfriend."
"Oh... That's nice for him."
"That's all you have to say? You have even more of a right to be disappointed than I am and I'm definitely not too fond of it."
"Rei, as I told you in the White House. I'm not interested in a romantically relationship with him. He messed up any chance with leaving."
"Are you sure?" Rei asked Setsuna, the later's eyes were back from glistening with joy to her so often longing and somehow melancholic look.
"It's really okay. I hope he finds happiness with this new girlfriend. And hope he can manage this relationship to stay a happy one this time." She forced herself to smile but it didn't really work.
"Fine. I still say you should have danced with him back in Washington. Then it probably would have been you now and not some twenty three year old blond bimbo from a backwater planet. You know, if you want to talk, I'm always available."
"Thank you Rei. Now excuse me please, I'll have to clean this kitchen up so Michiru can have a moment to relax as well."
With sympathy in her eyes, Rei looked for a moment at Setsuna, who had begun to tidy the kitchen up, before she left the room. She felt sorry for her friend, knowing the nature and story of the older woman. Setsuna probably was the only woman Rei would ever accept at SunTzu's side. But Setsuna rather swallowed down her feelings than admit, and allow, them to herself.
Setsuna waited until Rei was gone and then she looked out of the kitchen window for what seemed like an eternity.
She knew that Rei knew that it did affect her. Although it shouldn't. But at least it meant that she could burry all her feelings in peace now. Not only was he gone, he also had another woman in his life now. She would let go of him, as she had done with so many in the last three thousand years without any problem. After all, in that three thousand years only three had really stood out and one of them had been her childish crush on the King. There had been only one she ever had truly loved. And she even had to let this thing go. Forgetting SunTzu would be a child's play for her. Even if deep down something told her, that her crush on SunTzu wasn't any smaller as the one she had on King Endymion. But she had discarded that crush very quickly, so this time she reckoned it would be even faster. And she would start with trying to have a nice evening. Maybe she would have a glass of wine tonight, one of that good french ones Michiru always had around.
Shibuya, after nightfall:
SunTzu just had left the taxi and now walked to the Izakaya, it was the one he often had visited with the Senshi-couple back when he was with the Taskforce.
He had enjoyed his afternoon in Tokyo, after arriving in his small apartment. AICA had gone to the base to wait for Hotaru, and soon he had left to have a Cappuccino in his favorite place in Juban, and then walked through the busy city streets of Minato a bit before he had made his way to Shibuya.
He was somehow happy to be back and tried to blend out his anxiety, not that AICA was ready to strike at a moment's notice and he had been packing two extra magazines for the pistol he had with him. And he also was a bit confused about his feelings.
He had just arrived at Earth when Anniten had texted him that she would be busy now, her parents had arranged a meet and greet with potential future companions.
Not something SunTzu enjoyed reading and although he understood that probably was what a princess had to endure on her planet and she probably was having a good laughter out of it, imaging his jealousness, the fact that she wanted to take it easy and this message had made him question her seriousness in their ,whatever it was they had as he wasn't sure about what to call it anymore as well, thing.
He took a big breather and tried to take it easy as well, just like she seemed to do. And make the best out of it.
He arrived at the restaurant and entered it, a smiling Michiru was already waiting for him at the beginning of the corridor leading to the private rooms and she happily waved at him, when she saw him.
The teal-haired waited until he had closed up to here and then they went down the corridor.
After they had arrived at the door to there room, she turned around and hugged him tightly.
"I'm so happy you came. God, I missed you so much." She pressed him onto her.
"I missed you too." He let go of her and hand still on her shoulder looked at her.
"You look good, how are you?"
"Could be worse. And you? Gosh, I can't believe you're really here." She hugged him again. "Shall we go in?" Michiru asked after the second hug.
SunTzu hesitated.
"How is she? Does she know about me coming?"
Michiru's grin vanished and she quickly glanced to the side.
"She's bringing Minako to the station right now. And she doesn't know a thing about you coming." Michiru began to smile again. "But she loves your gift, she was showing it off to everybody today."
"That's… nice." SunTzu nodded.
"Let's go inside. Setsuna is here as well."
Michiru opened the door and they entered.
Without saying anything further Michiru sat down on her place again while SunTzu took off his shoes.
Setsuna was quiet as well, she just had looked up when the door opened but then had been silently sitting at her place, looking into her drink's glass.
The seat opposite of the dark-green haired was empty so he sat down there.
But while Setsuna looked into her glass and the ice cubes and lemon slices inside, SunTzu had to stare at her for a moment and hoped she didn't notice.
Maybe it was his jealousy with Anniten or maybe because he hadn't had a close look at her for a long while, while not being her patient or target of her criticism, but she looked stunning in this white and black checkered tweed trouser suit, obviously Channel, as her belt suggested as well. What made it stand out was the black corsage she wore underneath, subtle but showing enough to make one fantasize, and the gold jewelry she was wearing with it. SunTzu really had problems to take his eyes off of her and although Setsuna's beauty was something nobody could take his eyes off easily, he felt a sting. He shouldn't be staring at her. But on the other side, his girlfriend or whatever she actually was, had a date with individuals that were meant to be possibilities to become her companions. Nonetheless it would have been a sin to not at least compliment Setsuna's beauty.
Suddenly she looked up and directly at him. Cherry red and hazel eyes met for a moment. Next to Setsuna a quiet Michiru was looking at her two friends.
SunTzu cleared his throat, his hand in front of his mouth.
"Good evening Setsuna."
"Good evening SunTzu. I'm surprised to see you here."
SunTzu thought that he saw the slightest hint of a smile on her cherry colored lips.
"I could say the same about you. Michiru invited me for Haruka's birthday. It might be a bit daring though."
"Could be." She looked him straight in the eyes again. "You look better than the last time. Less troubled."
"Thank you, I do feel better. You look great as well. This outfit really suits you."
"Oh, you could say it's actually been a gift from you. It was along the things I bought when I encashed my Christmas present. Thanks again for this way too expensive gift." She took a sip from her highball through the straw in the glass and SunTzu caught himself looking at her red colored lips while she did so.
Setsuna had noticed something, now after she knew he was in a relationship with someone she didn't know and who wasn't from Crystal Tokyo, lessening the chance of him ever coming back even more, she didn't had to loose anything anymore, and It seemed so easy and light to go with it and talk to him like that. Or was that because of the alcohol? Anyways, what was wrong with being nice, even it was with SunTzu? It's not there was any chance something would be between them. She had seen the pictures and after all she had finally and fully decided to lay her feelings for him to rest.
"I see I made the right decision with this gift." SunTzu casually said as his eyes were glued on her lips at the straw, at least until she stopped and her head turned back to him.
"And If I might add, you looked great at the White House." SunTzu surprised himself when he said that with a smug grin. To Setsuna, the Ice Queen herself, what was he doing?
"Did I? Than I'm glad that I wore that dress and not an uniform like I first intended to."
"Oh, an uniform suits you as well. You know what they say about handsome people."
"That's a nice compliment from someone who looks as good as you in dress uniform. But you know that of course." Setsuna smiled at SunTzu, an ambiguous smile as her eyes fixed him.
Besides the other Senshi, Michiru's eyes had widened more and more and to her shock she noticed that she was the one blushing and not her two friends.
"Are you guys flirting?" The teal haired Senshi of Deep Water suddenly chimed, words a bit louder than she intended to.
Setsuna and SunTzu's eyes met another time, a silent game of who would answer first emanating between them.
Setsuna thought about it, about him. About what she wanted to do right now.
Part of her wanted to jump over the table and violently plant her lips on his, no matter if Michiru or whoever was here and watching, no matter if he had a girlfriend or not. Another part wanted to jump over the table and smack him, choke him, for leaving Hotaru alone and abandoning the Kingdom and his duties. And both parts intertwined in, that she wanted to hit him and then violently kiss him because he had left her alone. Oddly that thought stung also, as he never had been hers, he had been Rei's and now belonged to someone she didn't even know, but ever since that day where he almost had died in her arms and she had saved him from death, things had become different and it was harder for Setsuna to keep her feelings for SunTzu at bay. At least until today. Sometimes she asked herself how things would have gotten if she had asked him for a dance back then in the White House, like Rei had suggested it to her this afternoon. But then that voice of awareness in her head came in again, loudly yelling, telling her to not let him get too close to her, to not bond too much. He had left them and he had left his path, and after millennia of being alone she couldn't settle for someone who wouldn't stay for eternity. Someone that wasn't ready. The pain from last time still ran too deep, she couldn't afford to go through something like this again. If she would ever accept loving a man again he would have needed to proof himself. And in SunTzu's case he had strayed away from that path and was ever more. But holy Chronos of Time, this smug grin when he just had told what he had said, made her heart beat like a drum. Internally Setsuna sighed out loud, that goddamn troublemaker.
It was SunTzu who spoke up first, pulling his gaze away from Setsuna and onto Michiru.
"C'mon Michiru, I basically have a girlfriend. And first and foremost of all, a noble lady like Setsuna deserves a way better man than a warmongering monster like me, so I do know I would be out of any chances anyway. "
SunTzu was occupied with his thoughts when he realized he had the word basically slip when it had come to Anniten, so he didn't see the side glance and tiny snort Setsuna made before she downed the rest of liquid in her glass.
In that moment the door to the room opened and Haruka stumbled inside, the blonde definitely had a few drinks today already.
"Pretty ballsy for you to show up." She stated a second after noticing SunTzu sitting at the table.
Michiru and Setsuna's gazes went back and forth between the two pilots.
Haruka finally wheezed and took off her coat and hat before she sat down.
It knocked at the door and the waiter entered, asking if they wanted to order something.
Setsuna, shook her head, after the rest had ordered, SunTzu and Haruka went for Sake each.
"I get going now. How much do I owe?"
"Tssk." Haruka, sitting next to Michiru said with both her index finger and head shaking.
"Thank you Haruka." Setsuna said and got up.
"I'll see you out." Michiru announced and got up as well.
Haruka and SunTzu looked at her as she said that and when she got up, as Setsuna was putting on her coat, Chanel, black and white checkered, and shoes on, their gazes turned towards the other.
Both weren't sure if it was the right decision to leave them alone together. Haruka thought so because of her anger as did SunTzu.
"Goodbye Haruka. Enjoy your night." Setsuna said and Haruka nodded to her.
Then the Doctor turned to the German.
"SunTzu. It was nice to see you. Good luck with your new girlfriend."
SunTzu looked at her for a moment, there had been something in her eyes but he couldn't tell what it was.
"Thank you Setsuna. You get home safe."
Setsuna left and before she followed, Michiru turned around to her girlfriend and her former wingman.
"I'll be back soon." Michiru didn't add it but both of them understood that she also meant for the two of them to behave in the meantime.
Michiru and Setsuna left the part of the restaurant with the private rooms walking next to each other.
Setsuna was looking even more stoical than usual.
Michiru slightly tilted her head and looked over to her.
"Ara Setsuna, what was that right now?"
"I don't know what you mean. I was just talking with SunTzu."
"Just talking? I was afraid you'd jump over the table."
"I really don't know what you mean. Maybe his verbiage was not exactly fitting for a man in a fresh relationship but other than that we were indeed just talking."
In that moment they left the restaurant.
And a few steps after the door Michiru stopped while Setsuna walked on.
"Setsuna?"
The dark haired finally stopped but didn't turn around.
"I want to go home Michiru, it was a long day." And then tall woman sighed and turned around. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to come over ungrateful. I had a great time as well today. As had Hotaru."
Michiru closed up to her.
"Setsuna, we're family, you know that, and I probably know you better than anybody else. Girlfriend or not, why you don't shoot your shot? There is no one coming close to you as a person and a woman. And now you finally start flirting with him and then run away? Why?"
"I'm not running away, as this would suggest that there is actually either fearing or caring about something and I'm not. I am not romantically interested in him. And even if I ever would have been I gave it up when he left the Taskforce and Hotaru."
"We left you and Hotaru as well, Setsuna."
"This was something different. You two needed time for each other, for your relationship. I'm sure you remember how things between you and Haruka were. But I always knew you would come back. I'm not so sure when it comes to him and ever coming back."
"But Setsuna, why you…"
"Stop it Michiru. He left. SunTzu left us, foremost he left Hotaru. He's not the one. As my best friend you should know that I can't and won't settle for someone that won't stay for eternity."
Michiru nodded. "Yes, I understand. Although I still say you both would be perfect for each other."
Setsuna shot her best friend one of her trademark stares and Michiru smirked.
"Okay, okay. I better get inside before our two pilots get thrown out. Goodnight Setsuna."
"Goodnight Michiru. And just that they know, I'm at home sleeping. I'm not available to patch anyone up." The last part of the sentence came with the faintest hint of a smile from her.
"Don't worry, Michiru-Mama is here to take care that nobody will get hurt tonight."
While the two Senshi were talking outside, inside the room Haruka and SunTzu didn't talk at all.
The waiter came and brought the drinks and both just bowed slightly as thank you.
They both filled their drinking glasses.
Haruka was about to drink a big sip when SunTzu suddenly looked at her.
"To your birthday."
Haruka muttered something back which SunTzu couldn't understand but she did a small gesture with her glass as well.
Both downed their glasses in one turn.
Haruka immediately filled her vessel again and SunTzu followed.
They both downed their glasses again.
While filling up the third time Haruka glanced over to SunTzu.
"New girlfriend, eh?"
SunTzu nodded.
"Guess so."
Haruka nodded as well.
"Saw the pic. Not bad."
"Thanks." Both took a sip of Sake but didn't down their glasses this time.
"How long you've been dating?"
"It's pretty fresh. We're taking things easy. At least I guess so."
Haruka nodded again.
"Yeah, you know how girls are. Especially when they're younger."
SunTzu's turn to nod, before Haruka continued.
"Oh, and thanks for the bike. Absolutely wasn't necessary tho."
"You're welcome."
Haruka downed the rest of her glass and immediately filled it up again, SunTzu followed her. Her facial expression told him, that there would be a follow up to this.
"Don't think that changes anything."
In that moment the door opened again and Michiru walked back inside.
With the hint of a smile she greeted the two.
"Ah Michiru. I was just talking to SunTzu that his gift doesn't redeem him from just packing his things and running away."
Michiru sharply draw air in, she just had sat down next to Haruka again.
"That wasn't meant as redemption. It was a birthday gift for my best friend."
"Oh. Do you coldly leave all your friends behind or just your best one? Mate." Haruka's voice was much more aggressive and louder now and Michiru's eyes jumped back and forth between her girlfriend and her former wingman.
SunTzu leaned over the table.
"I know you're angry Haruka, but let me ask you something. How many times did you came into a situation where you almost died after I left?"
Haruka was taken aback from the question and, although the alcohol made it take longer, she thought about it.
But after a few seconds she had to admit that there hadn't been a single life threatening moment for her after SunTzu had left. She glanced at Michiru and saw that her lover came to the same conclusion.
"See, exactly what I expected. I might have left because the heartbreak. But I do know now that I'm a threat for everybody around me. That's why I stay away from those I love. I guess you heard about Gistess. We don't have to talk about who was with her, when she died." He said the last words very quiet and then looked to the floor.
"But… we…" Michiru tried to say something but couldn't think of anything.
"That's not fair." Haruka grinded her teeth. "Now, I can't even be angry with you. And I wanted to be bloody, fucking angry with you."
She took another sip of Sake. "I fookin' wanted to hit ya in the face."
SunTzu downed his glass before he answered. "I have to be honest. That was actually what I expected you to be the first thing to do when I got here. And probably you're right to do so."
SunTzu and Haruka locked eyes, the alcohol now began to take effect. Heavily, but that didn't hold them back to poor another glass.
"To good friends. And the ones that can't be here." SunTzu said in a voice that was part irony and part pain and raised his glass.
"Fuck this War." Haruka replied and all three of them toasted to these words.
While Michiru took just a sip the two pilots downed their drinks, their faces showing their drunkenness.
"Fook, I still wanna bloody hit you in ya face."
"Let's make a deal. You get a free punch as apology. But then we're cool again."
Haruka snorted.
"Michiru Bonnie, call the Base. Someone will need facial reconstruction"
SunTzu smiled while Michiru shook her head while facepalming. She didn't even try to intervene as she knew both way to well to know it was useless.
"Alright then, let's go outside."
SunTzu got up and Haruka did so as well, Michiru followed shaking her head again.
"Crétines" She muttered while she followed the two other Guardians.
A minute later they were outside the restaurant in a silent back alley.
Michiru stood a bit offside, her face showing pure embarrassment.
Haruka and SunTzu were facing each other, Haruka was already clenching her fist while SunTzu's tried to flex his facial muscles to prepare for the punch.
"Ready?" Haruka asked and SunTzu nodded firmly.
Haruka striked out as SunTzu interrupted her.
"Wait, wait, wait. Try to hit my cheek at least. I don't think Anniten would like me with a broken nose or a black eye."
"Fine." Haruka said and got into a firm stance again.
SunTzu took a last deep breather and then held his head up high, awaiting the punch.
Haruka striked out again, Michiru closed her eyes and looked away and SunTzu was expecting a punch as hard as the ones he had gotten from Valak Choka months ago but to his surprise all he felt was a light slap on his cheek and then strong arms pulling him into an embrace.
Michiru carefully opened one eye and looked over to the two, just to see Haruka hug SunTzu.
"I missed you dearly you bloody cunt."
Haruka said while she pulled her best friend close.
"I hear ya, you stupid Tommy."
SunTzu pulled her tight as he could now as well.
A few seconds later someone pulled their arms apart and Michiru joined the hug, eyes closed but a relieved smile on her face.
"Enfin."
For a long moment the trio hugged it out, before Haruka ended the embrace.
"Bloody great we could clear the air. Can we get back to drinking, it's still my bloody birthday and I want you to have the worst hangover in the history of mankind tomorrow as punishment for letting you run away. If you still can take up with me, that is."
SunTzu and Haruka shoot each other a wry smile.
Challenge accepted.