Good morning,

It looks like we'll be able to wrap everything up in 13 parts. Actually
we're hoping to Kami-sama that it is only 13 parts. We did set a max limit
though of 750KB so... Anyway here's part #10 Hope you enjoy it.

Doug
----
Tales of Younger Venus
By Douglas "Candle Light Author" Helm and "Tuxedo" Will Wolfshohl

Disclaimer: Sailor Moon, Sailor Senshi, and all terms, names, etc.
associated with the series are copyrighted by Naoko Takeuchi and
Kodansha. We make no claim to them and this work of fanfiction should
not be seen as making a claim.

Those characters that are original and the story "Tales of Younger
Venus" are copyrighted (c) 1997 by Douglas Helm & Will Wolfshohl.

This fanfic and over 330 other SM fanfics reside in "Tuxedo" Will's SM
Fanfics Archive at http://log.on.ca/users/helm/anime/index.htm

Send comments to: Douglas "Candle Light Author" Helm (dhelm@log.on.ca)
or "Tuxedo" Will Wolfshohl (wwolfshohl@logicon.com)


Part X
Chapter 24 - Stormy Weather

Misako whimpered as she peeked out from under the covers. She hid again
as a low rumble of thunder rolled over the house and lightning lit the
room brightly. <Mommy, Onee-chan...> She snuggled closer to Chibi-Usa to
try and relieve some of the fear. She heard the rain hitting the window
and the wind shaking the branches of the trees. The storm started to
grow in intensity, the thunder getting louder, and the lightning
flashing more brightly. By this point Misako had a vice-like grip around
Chibi-Usa's neck, eyes wide, staring terrified at the dancing, menacing
shadow figures on the wall.

Suddenly a loud crash of thunder close by shook the house. Misako gave a
yelp of terror and increased her hold on Chibi-Usa. Chibi-Usa suddenly
found herself beginning to turn blue, unable to breathe. Struggling to
get away she finally found the cause and ripped it away from her neck.
Gasping for air she opened her eyes and gazed around the room.

She found Misako looking fearfully around, "Imouto?" Chibi-Usa asked
sleepily, "What's the matter?"

"Onee-chan, I scared," Misako squeaked, snuggling up to Chibi-Usa again
and hugging her for protection though less tightly than before.
Chibi-Usa just then became aware of the storm. "I want Mommy," Misako
whimpered, hiding her face in Chibi-Usa's shoulder after a particularly
bright flash.

"Don't worry, Imouto..." Chibi-Usa comforted wrapping her arms around
Misako, "It'll be okay. There's nothing to be scared about." <It's only
a little storm, nothing to worry about. I'm a big girl now.>

"Really?" Misako asked, looking up with some pride up at her sister.

"Really," Chibi-Usa reassured her sister while giving her a hug. "It's
only thunder... It can't hurt you?" After a few more moments of
reassuring her sister both girls settled down, both wide awake listening
to the increasing storm. <Hai, nothing to worry about...> Chibi-Usa
thought but her confidence was slipping. "See Misako?" Chibi-Usa asked,
"We're nice and warm. We don't need Mommy." Chibi-Usa turned her head to
look at Misako, "Do you really want Mommy?"

"Iie," Misako said resting her head against Chibi-Usa's shoulder, "I be
big girl like you." <Onee very brave.> That's when the power went out
extinguishing their nightlight and plunging the room into total
darkness. Misako whimpered but Chibi-Usa hugged her again.

"It's just dark, Imouto, nothing to worry about. I'm here for you,"
Chibi-Usa reiterated again but the doubt in her voice was obvious. <Here
comes some thunder! I can't let Misako see me be scared,> Chibi-Usa
thought. She could hear it starting to build. <But I REALLY HATE
thunder...> It seemed to take a long time. <Mommy, I wish you were
here.> Like a massive tidal wave it rolled, building up power until it
crashed down in a long bone shattering BOOM!!! <Mommy!>

Then, almost immediately, another brilliant flash of light filled the
house followed by another earth shaking boom, both little girls bolted
upright, looked at each other, and screamed. Neither one hesitated as
they both scrambled out of bed and out of their room screaming at the
top of their lungs, "MMMMOOOOMMMMMMMYYYY!!!!!!!!!!!!!" Then darkness
once again swallowed them.

                                  ******

Usagi bolted upright wondering what all the noise was about. She was
about to go see what was happening when her door burst open and both her
daughters came running into the room howling with terror at the top of
their lungs. Usagi didn't have time to even flinch as both girls
launched themselves at Usagi and clamped on for dear life.

There are very few things that would wake a parent faster than screams
of terrified children. Not more than a minute after Chibi-Usa and Misako
had burst into Usagi's room, Ikuko came rushing in as well. What she
managed to make out in the flashes of lightning was Usagi and two little
girls quivering and crying while clinging to Usagi with vice-like grips.
Usagi was desperately trying to calm them and figure out exactly what
was wrong with her young daughters.

"What the heck's going on?!" Shingo declared from behind Ikuko. <Did
something happen to Misako?!>

Turning around Ikuko ordered, "Shingo, just go back to bed." Then she
noticed that Kenji was also up, "I think the storm scared them, Dear."
As confirmation of this statement another long peal of thunder rolled
over the house making it shudder. This had the effect of causing the
girls to scream again. Shooing Shingo away Ikuko walked down the stairs
towards the kitchen to get a flashlight.

Usagi was finding out what her mother meant by wanting an extra set of
arms. Having one girl to comfort was one thing. Having two girls to
comfort meant she had to work twice as hard. Both Chibi-Usa and Misako
were snuggled up against her shivering with fear. As the seconds passed
Usagi had managed to get Chibi-Usa to calm down slightly. Chibi-Usa was
now still clinging tightly to her mother but was only giving the
occasional whimper.

Misako was slightly harder to calm down but once Ikuko returned with a
flashlight it became easier. Misako had her face buried into Usagi's
side and refused to even let go so Usagi could breathe a little easier.
With Ikuko's help Usagi managed calm Misako down enough to convince the
little girl that she would be safe.

After a few more minutes of comforting talk Misako said, "Can I sleep
here, 'Sagi-chan?" She stared with sad eyes up at Usagi, a pleading
expression came across her face. Usagi was pleased that Misako was
calling her Usagi even though she was scared. "I not be scared if I
sleep in your bed."

Usagi glanced at Chibi-Usa who looked like she would also like to stay
with Usagi but wasn't about to ask. <I hope I can stay too... It'd be
too scary being by myself. Please Mommy...> She found herself sniffling
as well.

<Kami-sama, this bed will be crowded. Maybe Chibi-Usa wouldn't mind if I
only let Misako stay... I could make it up to her somehow.> Usagi looked
at her mother for a moment. <Baka Usagi, how could you even consider a
thing like that... Chibi-Usa has as much right to your comfort as
Misako!> "Hai, you both can stay," Usagi said.

Misako and Chibi-Usa both sighed with relief, even Ikuko gave a small
sigh. She could go back to bed. Leaving the flashlight she bid the girls
goodnight and left the room. Usagi straightened the bed and then slid
herself under the covers. Misako crawled in beside her on the left while
Chibi-Usa took the right. <One thing's for sure, I won't roll around...>
Usagi giggled to herself. She was squeezed in between her two daughters.
Each one had snuggled up so they could put their head on one of Usagi's
shoulders. <There, there, little ones... Mommy's here... This feels so
right.>

Usagi was about to turn off the flashlight when Misako asked,
"'Sagi-chan, where Onii?"

"In his room," Usagi replied. <I wonder why she's asking about
Shingo...>

"Iie, this past, ne?"

"Hai," Usagi answered. <Uh oh!>

"'Kay, so why Onii not with Mommy?" Misako asked.

Usagi wasn't sure at first how to answer that. She turned her head to
look at Chibi-Usa. Chibi-Usa seemed to be thinking something unpleasant.
Giving a small shake of her head Chibi-Usa closed her eyes. <Well...
what do I tell Misako?> "Miko-chan, why don't you ask your mommy when
you get home." <I'll try to make sure Shingo can spend time with you
even if he's a brat sometimes. Still he really likes Misako...>

"Hai 'Sagi..." Misako said, "'Night C-Chibi-'Sa." <Seem funny calling
Onee `chibi'.>

"'Night, Miko-chan," Chibi-Usa added. <Shingo isn't in the future. This
will be my only chance to see my uncle. It's best Misako not know.> It
was a depressing thought which grew even more morbid when Usagi gave
them each a final hug before turning the flashlight off. Plunging the
room again into complete darkness.

                                  ******

The Tsukino's weren't the only people awake during the early hours that
night. Kimeko was also up, but it wasn't the storm that was worrying
her. It was the fate of her friend and mentor that was worrying her. She
had slipped down the stairs and was sitting at the kitchen table
pondering her own thoughts when something nudged her arm. Letting out a
small yelp of surprise she jumped, ready to attack.

"Artemis!!!" she whispered angrily after noticing it was only the white
cat, "You nearly scared me to death!"

"Gomen," Artemis said, "Is something the matter?"

Kimeko sat back down and reaching out started to scratch between
Artemis' ears. "I wish you were my kitty," she mused. Artemis made a
face. "Don't worry. I'm not calling you kitty. I have a cat in Crystal
Tokyo."

"You mean it lives with you?!" Artemis asked, "That would surprise me
considering most normal cats don't like us."

Kimeko giggled, "True but you made Mom get one after I um... never mind.
You two are sociable. You tolerate each other if nothing else." She
giggled again as Artemis gave her a dark look. <Well I can't tell you
that you made Mom get me one after I made you lose all your fur... Boy,
did I ever get in trouble for that!>

"So why did you want your cat?" Artemis asked, "If you want to talk, I
can be very attentive."

"Yeah but you blab stuff to Mom." <You always do.>

"I most certainly do not!" Artemis disagreed, and then remembered that
it was late at night, lowering his voice he added,  "I can keep a
secret..."

"Oh yeah?!?" Kimeko also whispered, "What about that time you told her
about..." Kimeko scrunched up her face in frustration. <Oops, I can't
tell him about that either.> Getting up she stalked out of the kitchen
and into the living room where she flopped down onto the couch.

Artemis was at first surprised. After a few moments he followed her into
the living room. Hopping up beside her Artemis looked with some concern
at Kimeko. "Kimeko-san, what's wrong? You're hiding something from
Minako... Sooner or later she's going to notice it."

"It's Sakuya," Kimeko admitted after a long silence, "I'm worried about
her that's all." She started to scratch Artemis again, "I couldn't tell
you anyway. I'm not allowed to discuss the future." <And it looks pretty
bleak to me.> She had managed to keep up the facade for the moment and
she figured that Minako didn't suspect anything. What was really
worrying her was the possibilities that Sakuya was facing. She was
hoping that Sakuya would pull through like she always did but something
in the back of her mind was nagging her. <I just don't want that
friendship to end,> Kimeko thought once more. It had been a rocky start.
Most people experienced that with Sakuya but Kimeko found that she
really liked Sakuya, abrasiveness and all.



Chapter 25 - Shingo's Confusion

The Saturday morning sun soon banked above the horizon and Tokyo
glittered in the sunlight. It was fresh and clean from the storm that
had caused the power outage. Misako and, to a lesser extent, Chibi-Usa
were confined indoors for most of the morning. Ikuko had no desire to
let them get near mud puddles if she could help it and, in addition, the
clean up from the storm was still going on.

However, by the time lunch was over, Misako and Chibi-Usa were wearing
thin even Ikuko's patience. Giving a sigh of exasperation Ikuko
relinquished and told them they could go out and play; more to the point
she nearly ordered them to.

Giggling, both little girls bounded up the steps to Usagi's room and
paused outside the door. They each winked at the other before knocking
on the door. As soon as Usagi asked them to come in both her daughters
bounded into the room displaying a youthful energy that made Usagi
silently groan. She was still sleepy from the night before and her
daughters' rather energetic mood was just making Usagi even more tired.

"Onee-san," Chibi-Usa said after settling herself on one of Usagi's
legs, "Would you take us to the park, please?"

"Hai 'Sagi... We want go to park," Misako added, "Pretty please?" she
looked up at Usagi with mischievous hope in her eyes.

Usagi picked Misako up and settled Misako on her other knee. "Well, what
if your onii-chan takes you?" she offered. Chibi-Usa didn't seem too
thrilled with the idea and Misako was shaking her head. "Well I do have
things to do..." <Like homework and a Senshi meeting and...>

"Please 'Sagi?!?" Misako tried again hugging Usagi and made her features
take on a sad expression, "Onii come too but I want YOU take me to the
park."

"Yeah," Chibi-Usa piped up, "Shingo-kun can come with us." <I'd like to
spend some time with him and Misako should spend some time with him
before she goes back to the future. This may be her only chance.>

"Now, girls, I said I had things to do..." Misako began to whine until
Usagi held up a finger, "It won't work. Shingo would like to take you,
Miko-chan. Why don't you ask him?" <He deserves to spend some time alone
with both his nieces. If he only knew...> Misako looked like she wasn't
about to agree so Usagi continued, "I promise to come by later. I'll
even bring Kimeko along, okay?"

After a few moments Misako nodded. "Hai 'Sagi..." she agreed with some
reluctance before sliding off her mother's leg. "I go ask Onii." She
walked out of the room and was quickly followed by Usagi and Chibi-Usa.
They weren't going to miss this particular show for anything.

Shingo was not in a good mood. <When Chibi-Usa came Mom kicked me out of
my room!> He growled and rolled over to his stomach before flipping the
page of the manga he was reading. <Why couldn't Mom have put her up in
the loft?! Why am I stuck up here?!> He had not been very happy about
being moved. At first, Chibi-Usa had wanted to share Usagi's room as she
had done during her last visit but Ikuko had squashed that idea. <Then
Misako shows up!> Shingo wasn't really mad at Misako; it just didn't
help that she had wet HIS bed. <I thought only Chibi-Usa did that...
Then last night!!!> Shingo gave a growl of annoyance as he heard someone
calling his name.

When Shingo appeared in the hallway, after climbing down from the attic,
he found Misako waiting for him while a few feet away from her were
Chibi-Usa and Usagi as well. "What do you want, Peanut?" Shingo tired to
sound polite. <No use in getting Mom mad at me.>

"Onii-chan, you take me to park, please?"

"Why doesn't Usagi take you?" Shingo asked sending a look towards his
sister but she was just standing there watching impassively.

"I want YOU take me to park. Please Onii-chan? I be extra good!" Misako
pleaded while walking over and hugging one of Shingo's legs. "You like
me, don't you Onii-chan?"

Shingo gulped slightly as he stared into those blues eyes of the little
girl who was looking hopefully at him. <Why isn't Usagi saying anything?
She should tease me at least...> Shingo thought. He looked up and found
that both Usagi and Chibi-Usa were gazing at him with looks of
encouragement. <They WANT me to take her?!> he thought in shock.

Shingo's next shock was when Chibi-Usa walked over and stated, "I want
to come, too. Please, Shingo-kun?"

Shingo's first reaction was to think it was some sort of trap. He turned
an accusing glare towards Usagi but his look went from accusation to
confusion as Usagi grinned at him and winked. "I'll be swinging by later
on, Shingo-kun. You'd do this for me, wouldn't you?"

<Me do something for Usagi?!?> Shingo suppressed a snort of disgust as
he once again glanced down and saw Misako looking at him intently with
her big blue eyes. <Kimeko would like it and... well... she IS a good
kid...> "Hai, Peanut, go get ready. I'll take you and Chibi-Usa to the
park." Misako and Chibi-Usa gave cheers, "BUT!" Both younger girls
stopped and looked at him, "If I take you, then you'll listen to me...
Got it?" Somewhat to his utter embarrassment both girls hugged him
before bounding down the stairs giggling again.

"Arigato Shingo," Usagi said before walking back into her room and
closing the door. <I owe you.> This just left Shingo standing in the
hallway blinking in confusion for several seconds before he followed the
little girls downstairs.

                                  ******

"Usagi-san, can I talk to you?" Kimeko asked coming up to Usagi after
the Senshi meeting.

"Hai," Usagi told her as she started to walk.

Kimeko walked along side of Usagi. Once they were out of earshot of the
others, Kimeko asked, "Usagi-san, you know your otouto has a crush on
me, ne?"

"Hai," Usagi chirped before snickering slightly, "Mika's pretty steamed
about it too. Although I think more at him than you."

Kimeko smiled, "Yeah, but what do I do. I can't have him thinking he can
date me. I don't want to hurt him but..." She shrugged expressively,
<I also can't have him NOT marrying Mika. Pluto would kill me!
Figuratively if not literally.> Kimeko frowned but it was only for a
second, <Pluto's nice... doesn't say much but still nice.> She had tried
to stay out of the fight between Younger Jupiter and Pluto and, for the
most part, succeeded.

"Kimeko-chan?" Usagi's voice stopped her wandering thoughts. Kimeko
flushed, "If you want my advice, you can't just daydream."

"Gomen," Kimeko replied.

"You know you'll go back to the future sooner or later. Just
disappearing would really bum Shingo out. If you let him know that you
would like to be JUST a friend now, I don't think he'd get so upset."

Kimeko sighed, "Hai, I was thinking the same thing. I was just worried
that he might really do something rash." <Like dump Mika to pursue me
harder.>

"I tell you what, Kimeko-chan, Shingo's in the park with the girls. Come
talk to him and I'll phone Mika to come over when I take the girls
home."

"Sounds good, Usagi-chan," Kimeko agreed and both girls headed towards
the park.

                                  ******

Shingo couldn't help but smile. He had only figured he'd walk the girls
to the park and be totally bored as they played. That had not been the
case. His smile grew even larger when Misako giggled happily as he
pushed her on the swing. <How in the world did I ever get myself
suckered into this?> he thought, <And why am I enjoying it so much?!?>
Although he would never admit it to anyone else he was having fun with
Chibi-Usa and Misako. Giving Misako a final push Shingo backed up to let
her swing on her own, his arms were getting tired. <I guess we should
head back soon. We spent nearly two hours here. Still I hate for it to
end for some reason.>

"Shingo!" came Usagi's voice.

Turning Shingo saw that Usagi and Kimeko were coming towards him.
Shingo's features darkened for a moment, <Kami-sama, I could have walked
the girls home...> He blinked as he realized exactly what his thought
was implying, <I didn't even think once about impressing Kimeko the
whole time. Why?! Misako wanted me to play and after a couple of minutes
I gave in...> A look of slight dread and confusion spread across his
face.

"Konnichiwa Shingo-kun," Kimeko greeted, smiling slightly. She was
feeling a little better that Minako wasn't around. Not that she didn't
enjoy being with her mother but she would be more uncomfortable if she
was around, at least at the moment.

"Konnichiwa Kimeko-san," Shingo replied, "Did you get your homework
done, Usagi?" To his consternation Usagi just giggled. "Nani?"

"You sound like Dad," Usagi giggled again. Shingo stood stalk still for
a moment before grimacing. "Arigato Shingo," then turning to the girls,
Usagi told them, "Come on you two, time to go home."

"Aww!!! Do we have to?" both Chibi-Usa and Misako whined out.

Kimeko for her part rolled her eyes. Usagi said, "Hai, you have to.
Let's go."

Reluctantly both Misako and Chibi-Usa moved towards Usagi. Misako was
about to reach over and take Usagi's hand when she ran over to Shingo
wrapped her arms around one of his legs and squeaked, "Arigato
Onii-chan! I had fun!"

"I had fun too, Shingo-kun. Arigato," Chibi-Usa added. <I won't hug him
this time. I think he'd die of embarressment.>

Shingo gave Chibi-Usa a smile before looking down at Misako. "You're
welcome, Peanut," Shingo replied patting her on the head. Misako
disengaged herself and skipped over to Usagi. After taking her mother's
hand, Misako along with her sister and Usagi left for home. Shingo
suddenly found himself alone with Kimeko. This sudden thought started to
make Shingo blush tremendously.

"Shingo-kun, can we talk?" Kimeko asked. Shingo at first opened his
mouth but decided better of it and closed it. Nodding, he motioned her
over to a nearby bench and they both went to sit down. <Poor kid...>
Kimeko thought while trying to suppress a giggle. After seating herself
at a polite distance Kimeko suddenly found herself speechless.

"Wh-what did you want to talk about, K-Kimeko-san?" Shingo finally asked
after several seconds of silence had passed.

"Shingo-kun... Shingo, you like Mika, don't you?" Shingo gave her a
funny look but nodded, "She seems like a really nice girl." Kimeko
paused. She could tell that Shingo was starting to wonder where this was
headed. "I think that the both of you are a good match... I wouldn't
want to get in the way of that."

"You wouldn't?!" Shingo blurted out. He immediately covered his mouth,
his eyes growing large. He was somewhat relieved to find that Kimeko
didn't seem to be mad at him.

"Shingo-kun, I like you, BUT as a friend," Kimeko explained, "I won't be
in Tokyo for very long." She winced as Shingo's features drooped,
"Gomen, you are a really nice person. And I think that what you have
with Mika is something very special. You shouldn't throw that away on my
account." Shingo remained silent. After several seconds Kimeko
suppressed a sigh before saying, "I have to go, Shingo-kun, ja ne."

Shingo didn't even hear her leave. He felt slightly numb. But along with
the feeling of numbness he felt like an idiot. <All that work, stooping
to make Misako happy and it's for nothing!> his mind lashed out, <Baka!>

                                  ******

Usagi watched as her brother came into the house. He took plodding
steps; his features seemed to be a mixture of depression and anger.
Silently walking over Usagi asked, "Shingo, did Kimeko talk to you?"

Shingo raised his eyes to look at Usagi vacantly for several seconds
before saying, "Ho-how did you know?"

"She wanted my advice," Usagi admitted, "Kimeko was afraid that she'd
hurt your feelings." Shingo didn't give a reply, instead he simply
shuffled passed his sister to the refrigerator. "Shingo, you were really
good with the girls today. I appreciate you looking after them. Misako
and Chibi-Usa both said they had fun."

"Usagi, Kimeko said she wanted to be friends. I went through all that
work and she doesn't even want to go out with me?!?" He was angry, at
himself, and at Kimeko. What Usagi did next surprised him completely.
Usagi hugged him. What shocked both of them was that Shingo returned the
hug. After a brief moment Usagi and Shingo let go and stared at each
other.

"Feel better?" Usagi asked.

"Hai," Shingo admitted after a brief pause, "Arigato." <Onee-chan.>
Trying to avoid anymore uncomfortable situations, Shingo started to
retreat up the stairs. He noticed Misako and Chibi-Usa sitting on the
couch. Chibi-Usa was reading a story to Misako or trying to anyway. He
was about to continue up the steps when he spotted the manga he'd been
looking for. <Maybe a manga'll get my mind off of what Kimeko said.>
Entering the living room he passed the couch where the two girls were
sitting.

Chibi-Usa grimaced as she examined the word, <I don't know this one
either.> Misako had wanted Chibi-Usa to finish the story that Ikuko had
began the night before but Chibi-Usa was having problems.

Her frown deepened when she heard Misako say, "Onii-chan, read us a
story, please."

Shingo retrieved his manga and walked over to the couch. <Why should
I?!?> he thought bitterly, <Kimeko doesn't want me as a boyfriend...>
"Iie," Shingo snapped and started to head for the stairs.

"Please, Onii-chan, I really had fun at the park."

Chibi-Usa was about to protest this injustice when her common sense told
her she was just being petty. <I'm having trouble and it's spoiling the
story for Misako... Shingo looks so sad, maybe we can help.> After
swallowing a bit of her pride she looked over at Shingo pleadingly.

Shingo was about to snap at Misako when his brain kicked him. <Well we
did have fun at the park.> He finally admitted, <She is a kawaii kid
too. It isn't her fault Kimeko doesn't want to go out with me.> His last
ounce of resistance drained away when Chibi-Usa gave him a pleading
look. "Hai Peanut." Shingo turned around and settled himself between the
two little girls. After dropping his manga on the coffee table he was
about to reach for the book when Misako hopped up onto his lap. <What's
she doing?> Shingo grunted and glared at Misako trying to get her off
his knee but she just smiled sweetly at him. Giving a silent sigh he
took the book and started to read.

After waiting a few minutes, Usagi peeked around the corner and smiled.
Misako was sitting on his lap while he read and Chibi-Usa was sitting
right next to Shingo, both girls intent on the story. <I wish I had a
camera,> Usagi thought. It caused her some considerable pleasure to see
her brother being nice to her daughters.

After a few more minutes of quiet observation Usagi glanced at the clock
and then the door. Mika was walking towards the door. <Right on time,>
Usagi said to herself as she silently but quickly moved to open the door
for Mika.

Putting a finger to her lips Usagi motioned Mika inside. After putting
on a pair of guest slippers, Mika was directed towards the living room.
She quietly peeked around the corner and blinked. <I don't believe it!>
Mika thought. She couldn't believe that Shingo was actually reading to
the two little girls. <I thought he was only trying to impress that
hussy. He must really like those little girls!> As her shock slowly
passed a new feeling of pride swept over her, she turned and winked at
Usagi who covered her mouth to muffle a bark of laughter.

Mika slowly walked into the living room and over to the couch. She stood
in front of Shingo for several seconds before the trio noticed her. As
Shingo looked up Mika gave him a smile. Shingo took on the expression of
a deer caught in headlights.

"H-Hi Mika-chan," Shingo finally squeaked out.

"Konnichiwa Shingo-kun, Chibi-Usa-chan, Miko-chan," Mika replied, "Are
you having fun, Miko-chan?"

"Hai!" Misako declared happily, "Onii great!"

"He is, isn't he?" Mika replied. She bent down and gave Shingo a peck on
the cheek. To her amusement Shingo immediately began to blush. Then she
noticed the confused expression on Misako's face. "What's the matter?"
she asked the little girl.

"You give Onii kiss..." Misako observed.

"Hai, is it wrong to kiss Shingo?" Mika didn't miss that Shingo had
grown even redder.

"But... you not Onii's mommy," Misako stated in confusion, "You give
Onii kiss like Mommy but you not old enough to be Onii's mommy." Mika
simply smiled.

Chibi-Usa burst out laughing, "Way to go, Shingo-kun!" she crowed, "You
look like a lobster!!!" She giggled again before smiling evilly, "Oh now
how does that song go?"

"Chibi-Usa, sing it and die!" Shingo growled. <I don't need this!>

"Oh hai... Shingo and Mika sittin' in a tree..."

"Chibi-Usa!" Usagi's voice cut off her daughter's singing before it
could go any further. Chibi-Usa paused but when she noticed that Usagi
was giving her "the look", she subsided but didn't look none too happy
about it.

<Why's Usagi helping me?> Shingo pondered, <And why's Mika being so
nice?!?> He was very, very confused to say the least.

                                  ******

That night after supper Shingo lay on his stomach mulling over what had
transpired that afternoon. He had talked with Mika after Misako and
Chibi-Usa had been removed from the room. Shingo had come to the
realization that something was happening with his sister. This
realization, however, only served to muddle what he was feeling.

<Usagi actually called Mika,> Shingo thought, <When did she stop ragging
on me?> It was one of the simpler puzzles he was trying to work through.
<I mean she hasn't been bugging me or anything...> Except for an
occasional good natured barb, Shingo was discovering that, somewhere
along the line, he had lost the sister that tormented him. <Mika
actually liked that I was reading to Misako and Chibi-Usa.> In a strange
way this relieved him; he had been doubtful of what she might think of
him hanging around with little kids.

"That's another thing," Shingo muttered out loud to his temporary room.
<Usagi's been looking after Misako and Chibi-Usa. I haven't heard Mom or
Dad complain about it either... in fact they've been giving her
compliments!> This was, to say the least, shocking to him. To imagine
that crybaby Usagi could ACTUALLY take on responsibility and be good at
it was very unexpected. <She's even been doing her homework.> In some
ways it was just a little too much for him to fathom. The change had
been gradual and he hadn't noticed it so Shingo was getting it all
heaped on him at once. At that moment his thoughts were interrupted by a
knock. "Come in," he beckoned.

Usagi came into the room and asked, "Shingo, want to talk?"

"About what?" Shingo answered.

"Mika and Kimeko," Usagi said sitting down on the floor.

Shingo considered the offer for several seconds before he responded,
"Mika said that you called her, why?"

"Shingo, does it surprise you that I didn't want you feeling down?" She
could tell by his body language that he was accepting the fact that his
sister was concerned about him but wasn't quite believing it. "You are a
very nice person and Kimeko tried to let you down easy. I just thought
that you might need some cheering up and Mika was the best one to do
that."

"Yeah..." Shingo agreed, more to himself, "But that doesn't explain
Misako... I mean, why I like her. I'm even starting to like Chibi-Usa."

"Misako can tell that you are a nice person and she likes you. There's
nothing wrong with liking little kids." <Especially when they are your
nieces...> Usagi suddenly thought of something, "Shingo, do you think of
Mika-chan as your girlfriend?"

Shingo bristled slightly before saying, "Well... maybe." He looked at
Usagi with some suspicion, "What's it to you?"

Usagi would normally have gotten annoyed at his accusation but she
simply smiled and continued calmly, "Well, let's say that you and Mika
get married some day. Would you play games and read to your children?"
Shingo didn't respond but Usagi could tell that he was definitely
chewing over that idea. "By being willing to do things with Misako and
Chibi-Usa, you not only make friends but you also show you aren't a jerk
either."

"Are you calling me a jerk?!?" Shingo demanded. <I knew it was too good
to be true!>

"Baka!" Usagi shot back before she caught herself, "Shingo," she said in
a quieter voice, "Did you take Misako and Chibi-Usa to the park to
impress Kimeko? Did you read the girls a story because of Kimeko?"
Shingo was silent again before shaking his head, "Well then my
suspicions were correct, you're growing up." <I wish you could be there
with me to watch the girls grow up...>

Shingo mumbled something before saying, "So why do Misako and Chibi-Usa
seemed to be interested in spending time with me?" He was grudgingly
coming to the realization that his sister was growing up also.

<Because they want to know their uncle,> Usagi thought. "Because they
see a neat person who's older and who they can have fun with." Shingo
was about to respond when their conversation was interrupted by the
sound of Misako and Chibi-Usa squabbling. Giving a faint smile Usagi
said, "I guess I'd better go see what those two are up to now."

As Usagi was heading down the steps Shingo said, "Usagi..." She paused
and looked back at her brother. "Arigato... Onee-chan." The smile he got
in return was brilliant. Then once again he was left alone but this time
with less puzzles to work out.



Chapter 26 - A Mother's Magic

Kimeko walked slowly down the sidewalk after school on Monday. Ever
since Friday her mood had darkened. Her thoughts were on Sakuya and her
friend's fate but of a more immediate concern was Shingo. She had spent
Saturday, after telling Shingo that she just wanted to only be his
friend, worrying whether or not she had damaged the timeline. She was
worried that he might do something rash and not marry Mika as he was
destined to. Her sense of worry and depression were also magnified by
Minako acting unexpectedly. So lost in thought was Kimeko that she
failed to notice Artemis following her.

The white cat was concerned. He had tried to keep his nose out of what
was bothering Kimeko but as Minako became aware, he got involved once
again. Minako had failed to get any information out of her daughter. It
was frustrating the Lunar Cat that Kimeko was being so withdrawn with
her mother. Now as he followed her, he wondered where she was going. He
quickened his pace to get beside her and mewed.

"Artemis?" Kimeko queried when she looked down and saw the cat beside
her feet. Reaching down, she picked him up. After settling him in her
arms she continued walking, "Nani?" she asked.

"Kimeko-san, what's wrong?" Artemis asked in a hushed voice, "You're
worrying Minako and it's obvious that something's bothering you." He
looked at Kimeko and saw the uncertainty on her face, "Why weren't you
headed over to the shrine? The girls are having a study session."

"Because... because Mom isn't Mom," Kimeko admitted. She could feel
herself flush slightly. Artemis sent her a confused look, "Wait until we
get home." Artemis nodded and settled in for the rest of the trip. <I
should go back. I want to see Sakuya and I'm not comfortable here on my
own.> After arriving at the Aino home Artemis and Kimeko slipped up into
Minako's bedroom.

After the door was closed Artemis inquired, "Do you mind telling me what
you mean by `Mom isn't Mom'?"

Kimeko flopped onto the bed and was silent for a moment before saying,
"She looks like the woman who is to be my mother but Minako doesn't act
like her." Artemis hopped up onto the bed to sit beside Kimeko, "It's
just..." she sighed, "just like those boys at the beach."

"What about them?" Artemis asked curiously, "I know Minako was slightly
annoyed about something having to do with boys but she didn't say much."

"She was chasing them like some lovesick schoolgirl!" Kimeko said,
"She's a perfectly, happily, MARRIED woman!" Kimeko emphasized her point
by hitting the bed causing Artemis to bounce slightly.

"But Kimeko-chan, she's only fifteen and Minako IS NOT married." Kimeko
didn't respond, "Now what's REALLY bothering you?"

Kimeko rolled her head to look at Artemis. She held his gaze for several
seconds before giving a small sigh. "I should go back. We've been here
nearly two weeks." She felt Artemis nuzzle her and she started to
scratch his head, "You know..." She paused in her scratching for a
second before saying, "Mom wants me to talk to her but I can't. This
whole thing with Shingo and Sakuya..." Kimeko sighed, "I feel like a
fish out of water, Artemis." <Mom in the future would know exactly what
to say to me. She'd help me. Minako though...>

"What's got you so worked up about Sakuya?" Artemis asked settling down
and giving a slight yawn, "Even Makoto's been down. Usagi knows
something but nobody's talking."

"She's just done something that has been causing me a lot of grief,"
Kimeko admitted, "I can't tell you much. I feel sorry for Makoto. I wish
I could cheer her up." The scratching slowly stopped and both cat and
girl drifted off to sleep.

                                  ******

Chibi-Usa finally managed to get her blushing under control as she sat
with the other girls during their study session at the shrine. <Momo,
I'm seriously going to hurt you!> She had arrived at school Monday
morning and had promptly been applauded by her schoolmates. This had
confused her but, as girls started to come up and make comments about
her seeing a kawaii guy, her suspicions grew. These suspicions were
finally confirmed, when during lunch, Momo had commandeered the
microphone and announced to the entire lunch room that Michael and
Chibi-Usa were an item. It also didn't help that at that time Michael
had decided to have lunch with her.

She had spent the rest of the afternoon in acute embarrassment
considering none of her fellow students would let her live it down. <At
least Michael didn't complain about it,> Chibi-Usa thought, <He seemed
to actually enjoy the thought of being my boyfriend. He's really
wonderful.> Thankfully Momo hadn't said anything about Michael's story,
<And she'd better not!>

The atmosphere of the afternoon study session was a strange one. Minako
was showing signs of being worried and Makoto was obviously moping. Ami
on the other hand was being entertained by Misako who was describing
what had occurred over the weekend. Usagi was also riding high, mainly
from the great weekend and the returned test scores, but also from
Chibi-Usa having a boyfriend. It had stumped Chibi-Usa how Usagi found
out but she had found out about the gossip that Momo had been spreading
and was rather jubilant about it.

                                  ******

It was sometime after supper at the Aino home when Minako had finally
taken all she could. Turning off the music she had been listening to she
turned to Kimeko who was seated on the floor next to the bed reading and
asked, "Kimeko-chan, where were you this afternoon?"

Kimeko sighed slightly, "I just didn't feel like going to a study
session, Minako-chan." <I can't tell you the truth, Mom, that would hurt
you.>

"Why?" Minako asked more forcefully, "Kimeko-chan, there's something
bothering you... Won't you tell me?" She looked at Kimeko who looked
back.  Sighing slightly Minako got up and sat down beside her daughter
on the floor, "Do I have this much trouble talking to you in the
future?"

"Iie," Kimeko finally admitted after several seconds, "But in the future
I don't have to watch what I say." Turning her eyes slightly so they
weren't looking directly at Minako, she added, "I'm thinking of heading
back to the future."

"NANI!?!" Minako responded in shock, "Why!?!?"

"We've been here for two weeks. It was a nice visit. With Sakuya leaving
I'm starting to feel uncomfortable about being here by myself. Misako's
had a nice visit too but we knew we'd only be staying for a little
while."

"Why would Sakuya's leaving make you feel uncomfortable?" Minako asked
in some confusion, "What about me?!? Kimeko-chan, can't I help with
whatever's bothering you?"

"You could help, if I told you what it was. But that's in the future and
I can't say anything. Gomen, Minako-chan, but I just can't tell you." <I
really wish I could, Mom. I hate seeing you worried about me.>

"Can you tell me if it has anything to do with Mako moping around since
Sakuya left?"

"I think Makoto's hurt BECAUSE Sakuya left," Kimeko sighed, "I would
tell you but... and this thing with Shingo."

"What about Shingo?"

"He had a crush on me... I told him it wouldn't work and now I'm worried
he might do something stupid."

"Kimeko-chan, Usagi mentioned something about Shingo. I think he's
gotten over it." Minako smiled, "Come on cheer up! Everything will work
out. Please don't leave." She reached over and hugged Kimeko who
surprisingly enough hugged Minako back. <I'd miss you so much if you
left. I have to think of a way to cheer you up...> Minako thought as she
reached over and turned on the music once again, "Now then, WE are going
to sing!"

"We are?!?" Kimeko asked in a dubious expression. <Oh Mom...>

"Hai, we are," Minako declared dragging her daughter to a standing
position.  That was Artemis' cue to get out of the house. He stayed away
for the rest of the night, safely and quietly sleeping at the Tsukino's.

                                  ******

Tuesday afternoon after school found Minako approaching Chibi-Usa's
elementary school. She had decided on a course of action to help her
daughter. As she approached the school, she saw Chibi-Usa waiting with
Misako. "Hi Chibi-Usa-chan, Misako-chan!" Minako called out as she
approached the girls.

"Minako-chan?!?" Chibi-Usa said with some surprise, "What are you doing
here?"

"Where Kim'ko?!?" Misako asked, she hadn't seen Kimeko since Saturday
afternoon. "Where Kim'ko, Minako-chan?"

"Miko-chan, Kimeko's still at school." Minako noted that Misako wasn't
happy about that, "Chibi-Usa-chan, what does Kimeko like to do?"

"Minako-chan, you know I can't tell you about the future," Chibi-Usa
replied.

"Iie, I just want to know about her interests. I tried to get her to
sing yesterday and it wasn't a great success." A brief frown played
across her face. "I want something I can do to cheer her up... She
worried and, she's thinking of going back."

"Nani?!?" Chibi-Usa said in surprise, "You can't be serious!!!" She felt
a mild sense of dread as Minako nodded, "But-but why???"

"I don't know, Sakuya... something else. I just don't like to see her
unhappy and I want to do something to cheer her up."

"Well," Chibi-Usa mused, "She likes magic."

"Who likes magic?" Usagi's voice came, "Hi Minako-chan, what are you
doing here?" She came up to stand beside Minako, "Did you have a good
day in school, girls?"

"Hai 'Sagi!" Misako squeaked, bounding over to her mother who bent down
to give her a hug. "Can I go see... 'Amo-kun?"

"Uh... `Amo-kun'?!?" Minako questioned.

"Mamoru," Usagi explained, "I don't know... Chibi-Usa-chan, did you want
to come with us?"

"Actually Chibi-Usa-chan come with me. I'll need your help."

Chibi-Usa look dubiously at Minako for a few seconds before turning to
Usagi and saying, "Onee-san, can I go with Minako-chan? She wants me to
help her with a magic show." <At least it's a magic show... I hope.>

"Hai, go on," Usagi agreed, "Okay come on, Miko-chan, we'll go see
Mamoru."

As the two walked away Minako wrapped an arm conspiratorially around
Chibi-Usa and said, "Now, my fine assistant, here's what we are going to
do..."

<Maybe I should have gone with Usagi...> Chibi-Usa belatedly thought as
Minako outlined her plan of action, <For some reason I know I'm going to
regret this.>

                                  ******

"Um... Minako-chan, do you know anything about magic?" Chibi-Usa asked
as she watched Minako with some apprehension. The older girl was trying
on a sparkly cape, "I mean we could just buy one of these basic magic
sets."

"How hard can magic be, Chibi-Usa-chan?" Minako responded while doing a
pirouette that sent the cape a flutter, "I mean if Kimeko can do some of
the tricks you say, then I certainly can do them." <I'm her mom after
all.> "Besides we need to do this to help cheer not only Kimeko up but
Mako as well. That girl's been moping around ever since Sakuya left."

"What's the `we' stuff? I said I'd come along. I didn't agree to be your
assistant," Chibi-Usa stated firmly, "And if you think I'm going to let
you saw me in half, you can forget it!" She backed up slightly as Minako
turned around holding what appeared to be a rather sharp saw. <Kimeko's
been doing magic as long as I can remember and she still makes
mistakes... She's shown me a little magic and it's not easy. Maybe this
isn't such a good idea...>

"Don't worry. It's only rubber," Minako stated with some exasperation,
"Come on, I need an assistant and you know what type of tricks Kimeko
likes." She put down the rubber saw and walked over to the younger girl,
"You want to make Kimeko happy, don't you?"

"Hai but..."

"Good," Minako interrupted, "Spare the rod, soil the child." Chibi-Usa
gave Minako a strange look. "Don't just stand there. Hustle those rabbit
ears over here and help me plan the show. I'll spare no expense! As long
as it doesn't go over the money I have on me." Chibi-Usa groaned as
Minako pulled her over to a counter with different items on it, "Now
what were you saying about that egg?"

<Where's Tuxedo Kamen when you need him?> Chibi-Usa thought, <I have a
very bad feeling about this!> Her sense of dread deepened even more as
she saw Minako pick up a magic wand and then have it go sailing through
the air and shatter a display of "Psychic Crystals" <Yep, I'm gonna
regret this.>

                                  ******

Kimeko looked around. All of the girls had gathered at the Hikawa Shrine
that evening. Usagi seemed to have some idea of what was happening but
the others were totally in the dark as to why Minako had called them all
together. They knew it wasn't a Senshi meeting so to say that their
curiosity was piqued would be an understatement.

Kimeko knew what Makoto was feeling. She had known Mako since her birth
and she had become accustomed to reading the tomboyish girl's features.
It was also easy to tell how Makoto was feeling by the very deep frown
marring her features.

"What's taking so long?" Rei demanded impatiently. She wasn't happy that
Minako had mysteriously demanded the shrine grounds. She was even more
annoyed that her grandfather had accepted. The problem with her
grandfather accepting was that he was doing it for more than honorable
intentions.

As if in answer to Rei's question Chibi-Usa's voice floated out into the
courtyard where they were gathered, "Forget it, Minako!"

"So I couldn't find you one of those kawaii sparkly assistant costumes.
It'll do and considering your name..."

"DO NOT GO THERE!"

The others looked at each other with some apprehension or confusion.
There was a brief silence followed by the sounds of a minor scuffle and
then a cry of victory from Minako. "Now, Chibi-Usa, get out there and
introduce me before they go home," Minako commanded.

As the door slid open the spectators tried to see what had been
happening but they couldn't make out anything of any real importance.
After a few seconds a figure appeared in the doorway. At first it was
hard to make out exactly what it was. but as the figure jerked forward
slightly as if pushed Chibi-Usa became apparent. Misako squealed in
delight at the costume that her sister was wearing. Usagi, trying to
save her daughter some embarrassment, covered her mouth to stop her
laughter but her shoulders shook with mirth.

Mamoru was not very successful in hiding his own amusement and got a
dark look from his eldest daughter. The rest of the Senshi along with
Yuurichiro and Grandpa Hino were staring opened mouthed with some shock.

"Go on," hissed a hidden Minako into the silence.

Chibi-Usa gave a hate filled look over her shoulder towards Minako but
one of her "ears" got in the way. <Minako, I'm going to kill you!>
Chibi-Usa thought darkly. She was none too pleased to be inside a giant
pink bunny outfit. Its stomach and parts of its paws were wide and
white. A giant powderpuff white tail was also present. The bunny outfit
with the one floppy ear was bad enough. What made it even worse was a
giant fake carrot that went along with the suit. <I want to crawl under
a rock...> Chibi-Usa was fervently hoping that Michael would never find
out about this. Shuffling to the front of the stage, urged on somewhat
by Misako's cheers of pleasure, Chibi-Usa announced, "Good evening...
Arigato for coming. I would like to introduce to you the..." Chibi-Usa
paused, <Nah... better do this right or she'd probably make me do it
over again.> "The Stupendous Aino!!!"

In a brilliant flash of light that left everyone blinded momentarily,
Minako appeared in a magician's outfit, or rather her version of a
magician's outfit. It was dazzling, if somewhat lacking in actual
material.

"Don't even think it!" Usagi hissed to Mamoru. Oddly enough Rei was
hissing the same thing to Yuurichiro and her grandfather. All three were
wide eyed staring at Minako.

"While my assistant changes for our first act, I will amaze you with
feats of prestidigitation!" Minako declared, "Can I please have a
volunteer?"

"ME!!!" Misako shouted jumping up from her mother's lap.

"You, young lady, come up here." Misako scurried to stand in front of
Minako who bent down and asked, "Now what's your name?"

"Silly... Minako-chan, you know my name," Misako stated.

Minako looked flustered for a moment before recovering, "See this coin?"
Minako asked holding up a one hundred yen piece. Misako nodded watching
the coin carefully. "I'm going to make it... disappear!" putting it
behind her back Minako flicked it into her subspace pocket before
putting her hand in front of her. Misako gasped in surprise and clapped.
After a moment so did the others. "Now for my next..."

"Minako-chan," Misako interrupted, "Bring coin back."

"I can't, Miko-chan, it's gone. It DISAPPEARED."

"Then you not get any more money. Wait till I tell on you," Misako
informed her.

"Nani?"

"Mommy say not throw money 'way... If you throw 'way, you not get any
more."

"Umm... that wasn't the point," Minako explained, "Try and pull these
rings apart, Miko-chan?" She handed Misako three large steel rings.
Misako pulled but was unable to pull them apart. "Now watch as I
MAGICALLY pull them apart!" Minako declared taking them from Misako she
started to pull. After a few seconds nothing happened, <Why isn't it
working? I know the instructions said to...> she thought as she put more
effort into it, "They seem to be stuck." She tried harder but nothing
happened.

"Let me try, STUPENDOUS AINO," Chibi-Usa offered. She had climbed out of
her bunny costume. However, considering what the next trick was,
Chibi-Usa was having second thoughts about giving up a layer of
protection. Minako reluctantly handed Chibi-Usa the rings. The little
girl gave a quick twist and pulled freeing the rings from each other.
The crowd cheered as Minako glared although whether she was glaring at
the rings or Chibi-Usa was hard to tell. Kimeko just smiled.

"Minako... would you like to practice?" Rei asked politely.

"Iie... I can do this. It'll just take us a minute to get set up."
Grabbing Chibi-Usa's arm, Minako dragged the girl over to a corner to
cover. The whispered debate, whatever it was over, was vastly more
entertaining than the magic show that Minako was attempting to put on.
Although everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves immensely.

<Mom, I'm so proud of you!> Minako had never really shown an interest in
magic. She was supportive of her daughter's interest but never really
wanted to try and learn any of the tricks herself. <Now to see you
trying...> Something occurred to Kimeko, <Why IS Mom doing this? And how
did she find out I like magic?!?>

Makoto also seemed to be smiling. Getting up she walked over to the two
conferring girls and asked, "Need any help?'

"Iie!" Minako snapped.

"Hai!" Chibi-Usa retorted, "You can be her assistant for this trick."
<I'm not going to get all gooey!> She started to make her way down
towards her parents but was stopped short by Makoto placing a hand on
her arm, "Nani?"

"Let's hope Minako can do this trick properly because if I get slimed,
I'm coming after you."

Makoto then let go of Chibi-Usa's arm, the little girl gulped and
scurried down to sit with her parents. Actually she took refuge behind
her parents for protection. She knew Minako would blow the trick and she
was now assured of Makoto's revenge.

"I am now going to make this egg vanish and reappear in my assistant's
mouth!" Minako finally announced after several seconds of telling her
new assistant about the trick. <I will make this one work!> The audience
watched with some anticipation for Minako to blow the trick but
amazingly it worked as promised. It appeared as if Minako had pushed the
egg into Makoto's ear and after a few seconds it reappeared in Makoto's
mouth. Chibi-Usa was having second thoughts about deserting Minako. To
say that Minako was overjoyed would have been an understatement. Her
smile proved that she was happy that she had finally succeeded.
Unfortunately Makoto at that point decided to take a bow. That's when an
audible crack was heard.

"Oops..." Minako said sheepishly, <I was supposed to put it up my sleeve
but I don't have any sleeves... I had to roll it down the back of
Makoto's shirt.>

Chibi-Usa gave a yelp of terror and bolted. Makoto was fast running
after her. The crowd was so intent on watching the ensuing chase that
they never saw Minako slip quietly out into the room. That is, all
except Kimeko.

                                  ******

Kimeko got up and quietly followed her mother inside. She found Minako
looking depressed sitting in a chair. Slowly she walked over to her
mother and giving her a hug asked, "Are you okay?"

"K-Kimeko-chan, I-I just..." Minako trailed off and sniffled, "I just
wanted to make you happy... I'm no good at anything." Minako just pulled
away from her daughter, "I saw you so worried about things that you
can't tell me, I wanted to get your mind off your troubles."

"You did!" Kimeko told her, "Minako-chan... Mom, tonight you did make me
happy. Do you think it really matters if you can't do magic?"

"But you like it," Minako replied more to herself than Kimeko, "The
others aren't having fun... I'm just making myself look like an idiot."
She felt Kimeko take a hold of her shoulder. She slowly turned around,
"Gomen."

"Baka," Kimeko said softly, "I might not be able to talk to you the way
I can talk to Mom in the future but there is one thing I know... I still
care about you." Kimeko gave her mother a smile, "Now come on, let's go
give them a real show."

"Nani?" Minako asked softly. She wasn't feeling up to going back out to
face her friends.

"You are going to help me. Now I'll go tell them that we're going to be
a few minutes but I want you to help me." <This is something I've always
wanted you to do with me...> Giving Minako's hand a squeeze, she bounded
off out of the room. Minako smiled and waited for her daughter's return.

In the meantime, Chibi-Usa was having her own conversation with her
mother. "But I need to change!" Chibi-Usa whined, "Please, Usagi-chan,
let me go home and change... I'll catch cold if I stay like this."

"Iie," Usagi answered, "Chibi-Usa-chan, you have that bunny costume you
can wear. It'll keep you nice and warm as well." Usagi smiled, "Besides
your imouto thinks you look very kawaii." <And so do I. Why didn't I
bring one of Dad's cameras?>

Chibi-Usa sloshed into the room that the bunny costume was in. Grumbling
to herself, she at first didn't notice that Minako was in the room.
Minako was looking a little better than she expected. "Where's that
bunny suit?" she asked.

"Um... what happened to you?" Minako said, trying not to laugh at the
thoroughly soaked little girl.

"Mako-chan dumped me into one of the fountains. I need something to wear
until my clothes dry and that bunny suit is a pretty good fit." <It's
embarrassing but better than being wet.>

"Gomen nasai, Chibi-Usa-chan, I thought that trick would work," Minako
explained, "Are you mad at me?"

Chibi-Usa who at that point had started to gather up the suit stopped
and stared at Minako for a few seconds before saying, "Minako-chan, that
was fun. I think we could have done it. You do have a knack for show
biz... Just maybe if we do it again, I think we should practice more
first."

"Arigato," Minako said smiling at Chibi-Usa who just nodded and went to
get changed. <Well the evening isn't a total wash-out...> This last
thought sent Minako into a fit of giggles.



Chapter 27 - Hearts and Spirits Part 1

The Amazon Trio were sitting in their favorite bar. As usual they were
searching for a suitable target. FishEye had not been overly pleased
that his target was not the one HE was hiding in. However, FishEye
didn't complain when he managed to get out of that awful costume. It was
not something he relished ever doing again. As he sifted through the
pictures something caught his eye, he was about to declare that he had
found his next target when he noticed it was only a female. Sighing with
some disgust he tossed the picture away.

TigersEye retrieved the picture and whistled in admiration, "Now this is
truly a flower of beauty. Something so sweet and delicate." The girl in
the picture appeared teenage with long blonde hair.

"If she were older, then her full potential could be recognized but
she's still too young. Why do you waste your time on such creatures?"
<Although she's older than his usual fair.>

"She would be like honey, not overly sweet," TigersEye mused, "She does
a job that many would not do. She's also not tainted by age. I think
that she could be hiding our goal!"

HawksEye reached over and stopped TigersEye from leaving, "Allow me to
handle this one?"

"Why?" TigersEye replied narrowing his eyes, "She's not like those
prunes you chase after."

"She's also out of diapers unlike most of YOUR targets," HawksEye
retorted, "I'm merely thinking that as she grows older, she will grow
into a beautiful PLUM of womanhood." <Besides you have failed before. I
can easily succeed with this one...>

"Iie, she's my choice. If you are also interested in her, then I must
have selected correctly. I'll look into her dream mirror and I'll be
rewarded!" Jerking his arm free, TigersEye left the bar leaving HawksEye
fuming before he also got up.

FishEye for his part ignored them. <Why those two insist on chasing
after females, I'll never know!>


Coming next in ToYV Part XI:  Chapter 28 - Hearts and Spirits Part 2