Soulriders 5.0: Legend of the Unending Games

Once more, I shamelessly plagiarize Ebiris' excellent summary to open the logs.

ARC V - Zirae

Returning to their native dimension, the girls settled back into their regular lives, while Chibi Usa adjusted to becoming a permanent part of the Tsukino family.

It wasn't all relaxation, though. The dimensional barrier was still significantly weakened, and Usagi spent a good amount of time working with Professor Tomoe to restore it - the fear being that the Deathbusters would triumph over the Sailor Senshi in the other universe and allow Pharaoh 90 to come here after he finished destroying that world.

But by and large, things had settled down to a managable pace, giving everyone a chance to catch their breath after the non-stop battling in Shadow Tokyo. Of course, it didn't last.

Less than a month after returning home, the senshi were invited to Motoki and Reika's engagement party, and fun was had by all... until an uninvited guest crashed the party.

Identifying himself only as Zirae, the pale man dressed all in white had a very unusual defining characteristic - no spiritual aura to speak of. He was a complete 'null-space' to the esoteric senses of certain senshi. That didn't stop him from freezing everyone at the party except for some of the senshi and Ann, and making all the frozen people transparent so he could look inside them. And he claimed to be looking for the Silver Crystal, which had been stolen from him aeons ago.

Failing to find any traces of it among the partygoers, Zirae promptly departed, with all those who had been frozen having no memory of the event.

While Usagi's Silver Crystal had vanished at the final battle with Metallia, Chibi Usa's presence meant there WAS a Silver Crystal on Earth - putting the young Princess from another world in extremely grave danger, since her very existence was wholly dependent on said Crystal.

Feverishly researching all the old records of the Silver Millenium, Usagi was only able to find two small clues. A passage detailing how the worlds of the Solar System lived in constant turmoil and war until Queen Serenity went out into the Galaxy, returning with the Silver Crystal and using its power to bring peace to the System. The second clue was far more subtle, and left more questions - a single picture of the Queen, Crystal in hand, with a shadowy figure in the background. A caption named him as Zirae in archaic Lunarian, but no other details on the picture were present.

The next encounter came during an awards ceremony at Mugen, with Zirae freezing everyone except Usagi, Ami, Rei, Hotaru, and Cyprine & Ptliol. Intrigued by their resistance, Zirae made a more forceful demand for the Silver Crystal, guessing that they would have that knowledge.

At the girls' resistance, battle broke out, with Zirae merely needing to speak the word "Die" to Cyprine for the twins to be knocked out of the fight, her aura shredded and the girl hovering on the brink of death. Meanwhile both Mars and Mercury attacked, only to find their most powerful attacks completely wink out of existence when they came within a few feet of their foe. As Zirae repeated his performance and incapacitated Mercury, a desperate Usagi formed an energy barrier with the full power of the Holy Grail to buy them some time.

Time which didn't last, for Zirae simply negated the barrier by touching it. Running out of options, the Moon Princess called upon as much power as she could muster, blasting Zirae full force with everything she could summon using the Grail. Said blast succeeded in one thing, by cracking apart the 'null-field' around him - it showed Zirae DID have an aura. An aura of such incredible magnitude it defied comprehension. Amazingly, however, Zirae retreated after that, leaving our battered and dispirited heroines to lick their wounds.

Analysing readings from Professor Tomoe's equipment at Mugen, which had been on during the battle, they managed to learn more about Zirae. Not actually a man, Zirae was an artifical construct - a sentient bridge between this universe and a 'pocket universe'. Said pocket universe existed for only one reason: a power source. Tapping into the complete energy of an entire cosmos under his control, Zirae waa effectively omnipotent in this universe. But his power had been sealed, with the Silver Crystal being the key to his full potential.

Via a Fire Reading, Rei learned what had happened to Usagi's own Crystal. After the battle with Metallia, it had shattered, tiny shards going into each person who died that horrible day, before the last power of the Crystal reversed the flow of time and brought them back to life.

Disastrously, Zirae targetted Hikawa Shrine next, and this time Rei was unable to resist his initial effect of freezing everyone. Recognising the girl who had defied him twice before while fighting alongside the accursed Princess of the Moon, Zirae would have done something rather nasty to the helpless miko if not for one thing.

Hotaru had been training under Rei as a miko, and was able to resist the effects herself. While the young girl was still coping with her experiences as Mistress of the Deathbusters, and had utterly refused to accept her role as Sailor Saturn, seeing her 'big sister' in danger prompted her to transform. Fighting alone, the Senshi of Destruction was able to drive Zirae off, although being hurt somewhat in the process.

Working off information his sensitive machines detected from that battle, Professor Tomoe, working with Ami and Eudial, came up with a plan for dealing with Zirae. Usagi, with the aid of Cyprine and Ptliol, would shatter his null-field once more, while the remaining senshi would attack full force to destroy his physical body in that state before he fled. The only problem was the risk of a catastrophic energy release from his Pocket Universe, which would annihilate the entire Milky Way Galaxy...

It was a daring plan, made only slightly safer by Tomoe and Eudial's job of creating a portal to channel any catastrophic energy release to an empty space in the universe between Galaxies. But it was all they had.

Sadly, Zirae wasn't very considerate of their timetable, attacking Mugen once more before all the preperations had been made. Even worse, Chibi Usa was at the school, and found by Zirae.

And so, the desperate final battle began.

Rei, Usagi, the Twins, and Chibi Usa all relocated to the roof of Mugen, swiftly followed by Zirae as the other senshi raced to the scene while battle commenced.

Unfortunately, close presence with Zirae had a profound effect on Chibi Usa, reverting her to a pink-tinged Silver Crystal in Rei's arms, which Zirae spared no effort in obtaining - his attempts to warp reality and sieze the Crystal from Rei managing to tear her left arm out its socket and shatter her right forearm in several places while she somehow retained a desperate grip.

Meanwhile, Usagi fractured his null-field and the other Sailor Senshi arrived, attacking in earnest. After a particularly brutal attack from Sailor Jupiter nearly destroyed the rooftop, injuring Zirae severely, he finally cut loose with a desperate attack that stunned all of the senshi. And as they regained their wits, he had already retrieved the Crystal...

Removing all limits on his power, Zirae healed himself in an instant, utterly ignoring a furious desperate attack from Usagi before preparing to end the Moon Princess' life.

But then, something amazing happened. Chibi Usa spoke from inside Zirae! Desperately fighting Zirae from within to protect her adopted mother and loved ones, Chibi Usa nonetheless found herself outmatched. And in the end, she proved she was her mother's daughter by sacrifing herself to shatter the Silver Crystal and relimit Zirae's power, fully healing the senshi in the process.

Filled with rage and grief, the Sailor Senshi laid into Zirae with a vengeance, Eudial and Viluy also arriving by this point to assist in the battle. Overwhelmed by their attacks, Zirae was hit by Usagi's final attack with the Holy Grail, and everything went black...

Waking up an unknown time later, the girls saw they had won, and the Galaxy hadn't been destroyed. But victory tasted like ashes after the brave and selfless sacrifice of one little girl who had already lost so much in her tragically short life.

Seeing the Silver Crystal reform, absorbing the Holy Grail entirely, didn't offer much comfort. What good was it, now, coming too late to save Usagi's daughter?

But then, a miracle happened. Pulsing with light, the Crystal turned back into Chibi Usa! The battle had been won against the strongest foe of all, and the girls all looked forward to their bright future.

[10:50] <Sailor_Anastasia> Coming up to his office, you find a basic tray of snacks and drinks there. "I thought you might want some refreshments after your trip," he explains as he gets seated.
[10:50] * Usagi-chan smiles as she takes a seat, settling Chibi Usa in her lap as she takes a handful of cookies. "Thanks."
[10:51] <Rei-chan> "We've been stuck on canned food for a while," Rei says, taking an apple as she sits down.
[10:51] <Sailor_Anastasia> Chibi Usa tries to reach, but isn't tall enough. "Could you hand me a soda, Mommy," she asks, looking at a red and white can.
[10:52] * Usagi-chan smiles, grabbing the can of soda for the girl. "Here you go, Chibi Usa-chan."
[10:53] * Princess_Herb takes a glass of fruit juice and sits down.
[10:53] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Thank you, Mommy," she murmurs as she opens it a bit awkwardly. "Ami-chan gave me one a few days ago - she said she likes soda a lot." Sitting as she says that, the girl stays right next to you.
[10:53] * Usagi-chan giggles. "She does drink an awful lot of them, that's for sure."
[10:54] <Sailor_Anastasia> Tomoe nods, idly noting the use of 'Mommy'. "I assume from the reports that your trip was successful?"
[10:55] * Usagi-chan nods. "For the most part at least. We... weren't able to help Chibi Usa's mother though, that's why she's here." She reaches over and takes the girl's hand gently.
[10:56] <Rei-chan> "We saved Tokyo in the present, but the timeline Chibi Usa came from was already gone before we even arrived," Rei says sadly.
[10:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods, pondering. "In theory, Chibi Usa should have vanished when her timeline was truly gone." He eyes the girl thoughtfully. "Yet here she is. Are you certain her timeline is beyond repair?"
[10:57] <Usagi-chan> "She has the Silver Crystal from her timeline," Usagi explains. "Apparently it's the power from that that's keeping her with us."
[10:58] <Rei-chan> "That world's Sailor Pluto explained it, and she's the authority on these matters," Rei adds.
[10:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Mmm," he muses. "It explains the energies the Twins felt from her, and your own comments on the matter. It must be powerful indeed to allow a paradox to exist unhindered."
[11:01] * Usagi-chan nods. "More powerful than even the Grail."
[11:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Such a treasure indeed. Then... Chibi Usa is staying with you now?" he guesses, drawing the conclusion from her use of Mommy.
[11:02] <Usagi-chan> "That's the plan. I still have to make sure everything will be okay with my parents, but I think they'll understand." Usagi replies.
[11:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> Tomoe nods. "And of the current day Tokyo over there and its Sailors?"
[11:07] * Usagi-chan smiles. "They all seem to be back to normal, pretty much. Probably still a bit tired for the senshi, but they're up and around again."
[11:10] <Makoto> 'And active. Can't forget active,' Makoto mentally mutters to herself, thinking of her counterpart, and wondering how well things will go between her and that Ami.
[11:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Good... less worries until we can reinforce the walls between worlds, then." Turning his full attention to Usagi, "Did Cyprine mention that yet?"
[11:14] * Usagi-chan nods. "She said they were pretty weak right now, and that we'll need to get them stronger quickly."
[11:16] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Indeed. She detected that world's version of the Deathbusters getting going, and if they summoned the Pharaoh quickly..." He shudders. "We'd all have a very nasty time when he used the weakened barriers to try and bring Silence to this world as well."
[11:17] * Usagi-chan nods, frowning. "How long will it take to reinforce the barriers?"
[11:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> "With the Holy Grail and the right approach? A few weeks, perhaps," he estimates. "It will be a stopgap until the void heals on its own."
[11:19] <Rei-chan> "Is there any way besides using the Grail?" Rei asks, casting a worried look at Usagi.
[11:19] * Usagi-chan sighs, a resigned look on her face. "When would I need to get started?"
[11:20] <Sailor_Anastasia> "The Twins can perhaps do some of the lesser work, but it's terribly energy intensive. They simply don't have enough energy to suffice - only the Grail does, I believe." He looks again at Rei, apologizing slightly in his eyes. "The sooner the better, Usagi. Today, if you can manage it."
[11:22] <Rei-chan> "What about if the rest of us combine our energies?" Rei asks hopefully, "I know it's not the same as the Grail, but if we all work together..."
[11:22] * Usagi-chan nods slowly. "I don't think I should today, but I can get started tomorrow, if that's what it takes."
[11:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods. "That's possible, if all of you can maintain good control over your energy. One misstep here could cause the worlds to come crashing together, Rei."
[11:23] * Rei-chan winces and falls silent, not having any other ideas.
[11:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nodding to Usagi, "Tomorrow is fine. We'll start with the small work and move our way up as you get practice."
[11:25] * Usagi-chan nods silently, giving Rei an apologetic look.
[11:25] * Rei-chan returns it with an understanding, if worried, smile.
[11:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> "There is one order of business from this end, also," he moves on to local affairs. "Rei, did Kaolinite ever mention a brother?"
[11:34] <Rei-chan> "Wha?" Rei blinks. "No." A frown creases her brow, "But... didn't you say she had no family?"
[11:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I thought so," he says, adjusting his glasses. "But earlier this week, a man came by asking about Kaolinite. Her family wants to know about her... and he's her brother. He's talented at magic, amoung other things, and wants to go to school at Mugen."
[11:36] * Usagi-chan looks mildly surprised. "Does he know anything about Pharaoh 90 or the Silence or any of the things Kaolinite was doing here?"
[11:37] <Rei-chan> "Does he know how she died?" Rei asks more worriedly.
[11:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> "No," he goes on. "Only that his sister attended here. I told him that she died as a result of an accident, and little more."
[11:38] * Rei-chan bites her lip. "So why does he want to attend Mugen?"
[11:39] <Sailor_Anastasia> "He's interested in magic, and quite capable. I told him enough to interest him - I want to keep an eye on this brother of Kaolinite. The scans didn't turn up anything, but... I don't trust him yet. Not at all," he concludes with a touch of grimness.
[11:40] <Rei-chan> "Well..." Rei looks downcast, "Kaolinite can hardly be blamed for how she acted under Germatou's control. But I can't expect her family to be thrilled with us if they get an inkling of what happened."
[11:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> "No," he agrees. "That's why I've invited him to Mugen," he goes on, dropping a small bomb. "As a junior member of the Witches, until we can ascertain his actions and interests on the matter. If he's trustworthy, fine. If not, we'll be in a position to deal with it before it becomes a public feud or worse."
[11:42] * Princess_Herb laughs. "You try to cover all the bases, don't you, professor?"
[11:43] <Rei-chan> "Hopefully he won't have any reason to find out about the senshi - things should be quiet for a while, at least," Rei says, deciding to bring up the black crystal shard issue after they sort out the dimensional barrier problem. Pluto did say it wasn't an immediate threat, after all.
[11:44] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods to Herb, before going on. "Yes. He'll probably have to know all of you have some talent at magic - it's practically unavoidable otherwise. But no reason to give that information away."
[11:45] * Usagi-chan nods. "Will we be likely to see him in our classes, or just here in the office?"
[11:45] <Rei-chan> "So is he as powerful as Kaolinite was?" Rei asks, recalling how her 'power rating' compared to the oldest witch's.
[11:46] <Princess_Herb> "It's going to be awkward explaining my curse to him," says Herb, half to herself, "but it would be nice to have more guys around."
[11:46] <Sailor_Anastasia> "He's not as powerful as she was, by any means. He's still competent, however, for a 15 year old. As for classes, that will depend on how he places in the coming weeks."
[11:47] <Rei-chan> "Fifteen? So he'll be in the same grade as me, Usagi, and Ami, then?"
[11:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> Tomoe nods again. "He'll be easy enough to explain it to - his family seems to deal in magic quite a bit."
[11:49] <Rei-chan> "I guess we probably won't meet him until after the holidays finish?" Rei guesses, not expecting him to be around for sealing the dimensional barriers.
[11:50] <Sailor_Anastasia> "He'll be on the upper levels for placement classes, but he won't come down here until things are finished," he agrees. "So at least a few weeks."
[11:54] * Rei-chan nods. "So other than that, things have been quiet here?"
[11:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yes, it's been perfectly peaceful. Even the rest of the world has been quiet... I think everyone is just enjoying a nice break." At that, he smiles. "Do you want a ride to your temple, Rei? I need to go pick up Hotaru soon."
[11:57] <Rei-chan> "Sure," Rei nods, smiling. "I need to check if she's been practicing the things I taught her before leaving."
[11:57] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Until tomorrow, then," he nods to all assembled, glancing at his watch.
[11:58] * Usagi-chan nods. "What time should I be here tomorrow to get started?"
[11:59] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Hm. Say, noon?" he suggests openly. "If you want earlier or later, I can arrange that as well."
[12:00] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "Noon should be fine. I'll see you tomorrow, Professor." Usagi gives the man a smile as she stands, looking down at Chibi Usa. "Ready to go home, Chibi Usa-chan?"
[12:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> Having sipped at her sugary drink, Chibi Usa stands. "Okay, Mommy," she murmurs, reaching up to take your hand. She's still looking very subdued, however.
[12:01] * Princess_Herb bows to the professor and leaves, aiming to go home for as hot a shower as she can stand and then to powerglomp Ann-chan.
[12:03] <Usagi-chan> "I'll see you guys later then." She gives Chibi Usa's hand a squeeze as the two head out of the Professor's office and Mugen, headed for home.
[12:03] <Rei-chan> "See you tomorrow," Rei waves as the pair depart.
[12:05] * Makoto decides to depart, not having anything left to say, and wanting to see Alan and tell him she was back.
[12:06] <Makoto> "Later everybody," she says as she too leaves.
-------
[09:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> Leaving Mugen, Chibi Usa is still quiet as expected. She holds your hand as you walk from your school towards your home... As fortune would have it, as you go through Juuban... "Usagi-chan! Usagi-chan!" Naru calls from across the street, dressed in a denim sundress and a broad-brimmed sunhat.
[09:20] * Usagi-chan gives the redhead a smile and a wave. "Hey, Naru-chan."
[09:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> Coming across the street, she smiles. "Hey, Usagi-chan. Who's that, your cousin or something?" she looks to Chibi Usa cheerfully, the girl in a good mood today. "What's your name?"
[09:25] <Usagi-chan> "This is Chibi Usa," Usagi explains, deciding not to get into the exact explanation of who she is. "She's going to be staying with me for a while."
[09:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Hi, Naru-chan," she smiles slightly.
[09:29] <Sailor_Anastasia> Naru nods, looking back up at you. "I haven't seen you in forever, Usagi! How is Mugen going? Keeping up at the brain academy?"
[09:30] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit brighter. "I'm doing all right... not the BEST grades in the world, but I'm not flunking out either. You know Miss H got a job there, right?"
[09:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I heard, Usagi. Everyone seems to be going to Mugen lately," Her smile slips just a bit. "Juuban's getting boring these days, honestly."
[09:31] * Usagi-chan's smile weakens a bit, a pang of guilt for her lost friendship making itself felt. "How about you? Is Umino still chasing you around?" she asks, trying to lighten the mood.
[09:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Not as much," Naru's smile slips a bit more. "He's gone into a studying frenzy - he's convinced that if you made Mugen, he can come exam time."
[09:34] * Usagi-chan sighs. "I had no idea me leaving was going to start a mad scramble to get in," she says, shaking her head. She gives Naru a small smile. "Are you going to try out too?"
[09:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I could never make it, Usagi-chan," she smiles wistfully. "I'm going to go try for Juuban High. Not that I have to worry about college, either, since Mom wants me to take over the Osa P when I graduate."
[09:38] * Usagi-chan smiles, deciding it probably wouldn't be prudent to mention her own college plans at this point. "I'm sure you'll do really well with it, Naru-chan. You've always been really good with helping her out."
[09:40] <Sailor_Anastasia> With a smile that shows some of her cheer is returning, "Yeah. She says that with the extra capital we got from last Christmas's huge sales, that she's looking to expand when I get out of high school." Naru pauses a moment, beginning to walk with you. "It's kind of nice not to have to worry about a job after school, too."
[09:41] <Usagi-chan> "I... know what you mean. I've got some plans that I think will work out really well for when I finish school," Usagi says, a somewhat distant look in her eyes.
[09:44] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Going to marry a cute guy and be a happy housewife," Naru teases, giggling. "Or become an ice cream taster?"
[09:45] * Usagi-chan giggles. "Tempting, but no. But you'll be the first one to find out when I'm ready - that's a promise." She gives the redhead a wink.
[09:46] <Sailor_Anastasia> Smiling, Naru nods. "It's a promise, Usagi-chan!"
[09:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> Chibi Usa tugs on Usagi's hand. "Mommy, can we go get some cocoa," she asks, pointing at the nearby Crown Centre. "It's hot to just stand out here..."
[09:47] * Usagi-chan tries not to flinch at the use of the term, but nods to Chibi Usa. "Sure, Chibi Usa-chan, let's go." She gives Naru a smile. "Want to join us?"
[09:48] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Mommy?" Naru blinks hard, staring at the two of you. "Usagi-chan... why did Chibi Usa-chan just call you... Mommy?"
[09:49] * Usagi-chan sighs slightly. "She's... I remind her a lot of her mother, and sometimes she slips up and says it by mistake," Usagi replies, giving Chibi Usa a look.
[09:50] <Sailor_Anastasia> Naru laughs a bit at that, letting out a breath she had been holding. "Oh, that's so cute... Usagi's too young to be a mother yet, Chibi Usa-chan," she nods.
[09:52] * Usagi-chan smiles somewhat nervously as the trio enters the Crown. "Hi, Motoki-oniisan!" she calls out to the blond behind the counter as she steps inside.
[09:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Usagi-chan," he calls, looking up from a stunningly beautiful, long-haired and brown-tressed woman. Reika smiles politely at you from her seat at the bar, a shiny diamond ring on her ring finger. Motoki has the biggest grin on his face, too, and so does she after a moment.
[09:57] * Usagi-chan looks on dumbfounded for a minute, then breaks into a wide grin as she catches on. "Congratulations!"
[09:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> Motoki nods. "Thanks, Usagi-chan!" he blushes a bit. Naru echoes your sentiments, smiling. "Wow, that's great, Motoki! When did your girlfriend get back, though? I heard she was in Africa?"
[10:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> "The research grant was revoked due to the leader of the team having to resign in a scandal," she says, barely downcast at such news. "I came back to Tokyo a week ago."
[10:03] <Usagi-chan> "Sorry to hear the trip fell through, but... you two both look really happy," Usagi says with a grin. "When did this happen, anyway?"
[10:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Just yesterday," Motoki grins. "When I saw Reika again, I knew she was the one." His fiancee nods at that, taking his hand. "All that time away really cemented our feelings."
[10:05] <Usagi-chan> "Well, I hope you guys are really happy together," Usagi says brightly. "Made any plans for the wedding yet?"
[10:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Not yet," Motoki shakes his head. "We're going to have a wonderful one, though," he asserts. "My Mom and Dad are going to want to spend a fortune on it..."
[10:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> Reika smiles at that. "So will mine. Motoki... why don't you invite these girls, then? You used to always mention little Usagi-chan and her friends before I left, but I never really got to meet them."
[10:07] <Usagi-chan> "Really?" Usagi says excitedly. "You'd invite me to your wedding?"
[10:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Sure," Motoki grins widely. "You are a friend, after all. You too, Naru-chan."
[10:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Oh wow... a real wedding..." Naru blushes at the thought.
[10:10] * Usagi-chan has stars in her eyes at the thought of going to a real wedding. "Oh wow, this is going to be great!"
[10:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> "It'll be the best... and so will the engagement party next week," he notes a second later. "Why don't you invite all your friends and come to that as well, you two?"
[10:13] <Usagi-chan> "Are you serious? We'll definitely come!" Usagi says quickly, grinning from ear to ear.
[10:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Great," Reika smiles at you. "It'll be a formal event, so make sure you and all of your friends dress for it," she nods.
[10:16] * Usagi-chan nods quickly. "I'll be sure to pass it on to all of them. Wow, this is going to be so cool!"
[10:27] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yeah. Congratulations, Motoki!" Naru repeats herself, nodding. "We'll have to have my Mom let us borrow some jewelry for it, too, Usagi-chan."
[10:30] * Usagi-chan giggles. "That ought to be a lot of fun! You mind if I bring the other girls over to borrow some, too?"
[10:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Sure, Usagi-chan!" Naru grins now, giggling a bit to finish it off. "You'll bring all your friends like Rei and Ami and Makoto, right?"
[10:31] * Usagi-chan nods, smiling. "And a few other new friends I've made at Mugen, if it's okay - I have to introduce you to Eudial and Viluy and the others, too."
[10:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> Naru nods in agreement, "Sure, Usagi-chan."
[10:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Usagi-chan," Chibi Usa tugs at your hand again. "Can I get something to drink now?"
[10:34] * Usagi-chan smiles. "Sure, Chibi Usa-chan! What did you want?"
[10:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> "How about some sodas and ice cream," Motoki cuts in. "It's on the house today."
[10:36] <Usagi-chan> "Now THAT'S the kind of thing I like to hear!" Usagi takes a seat at the bar, helping Chibi Usa up onto one of the high stools as well. "I'll take the usual!"
[10:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nodding, he takes Naru's order of a chocolate sundae as well, his fiancee scooting over and watching as he presents enough ice cream and soda to fill up a sugar ship.
[10:43] * Usagi-chan digs in with gusto, an expression of bliss on her face as she demolishes the triple chocolate fudge sundae. "Mmm... you have NO idea how much I've wanted one of these, Motoki-oniisan."
[10:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> Naru nods as she works on her more modest serving. "You make the best ice cream treats, Motoki. You're so lucky, Reika," she smiles at the redhead, who smiles right back. "I am, aren't I," she says, the two lovers sending all sorts of mushy and happy looks at each other.
[10:47] * Usagi-chan smiles at the sweet moment, thinking of her own lover. She glances over at Chibi Usa to see if the girl finally has any better appetite - although she can't imagine anyone named Usagi turning down a free ice cream sundae.
[10:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> Chibi Usa eats a part of her ice cream, still quiet as she looks at the two oddly...
[10:50] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Mommy... Daddy..." Chibi Usa murmurs to herself, putting her spoon down and resting her head on the counter.
[10:51] * Usagi-chan's smile fades a bit as she reaches over to stroke the little girl's head gently.
[10:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Mommy..." she says. "You still promise you won't leave me..."
[10:56] <Usagi-chan> "I still promise," Usagi says quietly. "Not ever."
[10:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> The two lovebirds are a bit distracted, but Naru notices that. She sends you a curious look at that little exchange, but stays quiet.
[10:58] * Usagi-chan sends Naru a look that says she'll explain later, then turns her attention back to the pink-haired girl. "We'd probably better get going. Congratulations again on the engagement, you two," Usagi says with a smile.
[10:59] <Sailor_Anastasia> Naru stands as well, bowing. "Thank you for inviting us," she echos, "And for the free ice cream."
[11:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Sure," Motoki grins. "We'll see you in a few weeks, alright?" he calls as you exit out into the afternoon sun.
[11:04] * Usagi-chan takes Chibi Usa's hand as the three walk out of the cafe, giving it a slight squeeze.
[11:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> Chibi Usa squeezes back. Once outside, "Usagi-chan..." she begins, looking at Chibi Usa. "Is she related to you?"
[11:07] * Usagi-chan pauses for a moment, then nods. "She is, but it's pretty complicated to explain how," she says, thinking to herself that that doesn't cover the half of it.
[11:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> "She even has your hairstyle from when you were her age," Naru comments. "Brings back memories of kindergarten." That does get a smile there, stronger.
[11:09] * Usagi-chan grins a bit. "I never had my odangos that pointy, did I?" she says as she looks down at Chibi Usa.
[11:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Not quite, but it was close," Naru kneels down to get a good look at Chibi Usa. "If she had blonde hair, she's be a dead ringer for you, Usagi-chan."
[11:16] <Usagi-chan> "I guess we do kind of look alike, huh?" She gives Chibi Usa a smile at that.
[13:14] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa smiles a bit back at you for that as Naru talks on. "Yeah, Usagi. Did your Mom have another daughter you never knew about?"
[13:14] * Usagi-chan smirks. "Not that I know about, no."
[13:15] <Anastasia> "Well..." she idly glances at a cute cat wristwatch. "Ah, I'll talk to you about it in a few days. Call me and we'll set up that jewelry thing, okay, Usagi-chan?"
[13:16] * Usagi-chan smiles "Sure will - see you around, Naru-chan!" she says, giving the redhead a wave as she departs.
[13:17] <Anastasia> Waving back as she runs off, Naru chan again vanishes from sight and hopefully not for a few more months.
[13:18] * Usagi-chan gives Chibi Usa's hand a squeeze. "Come on, Chibi Usa-chan - time we were getting home." With that she starts off towards her own home and the family she hasn't seen in a bit over a week.
[13:19] <Anastasia> Following, you soon arrive at home. The car is parked and no one is outside, though a faint smell of something good cooking can be smelled even from here.
[13:19] <Anastasia> "Sukiyaki night again," Chibi Usa notes, perking up just a bit at the nice smell.
[13:21] * Usagi-chan nods, trying hard not to drool at the wonderful smell. "There's something worth crossing worlds to come home to," she says, inhaling the wonderful aroma. Still holding Chibi Usa's hand, she opens the front door and steps inside, taking a moment and then yelling as loud as she can. "I'm HOOOOOME!"
[13:22] <Anastasia> As you yell that, you step on something unexpected, your balance fatally disrupted as you again meet your eternal nemesis, the floor. As you reel from that, "Usagi-chan!" your mother calls, rushing out of the kitchen to greet you. You lost a hold of Chibi Usa's hand as you fell, the girl standing besides her downed mother. "You're back... and so is Chibi Usa-chan!"
[13:23] <Anastasia> "Oh, Usagi," she sighs a moment later. "Be careful... Shingo tore a bit out of the floor there yesterday in an accident. It's easy to trip on..."
[13:24] * Usagi-chan sits up, tears in her eyes as she rubs her nose. "So I see..." That only lasts a moment though, as she practically flies up and grabs her mother in a hug. "I'm so glad to be home!"
[13:26] <Anastasia> Smiling as she hugs you back, "Chibi Usa-chan, you came back too?"
[13:26] <Anastasia> The little girl nods, stepping forward a bit - carefully - and nodding. "Usagi said she'd take me home and that I could stay here."
[13:27] * Usagi-chan gives her mother a hopeful look, taking a step back.
[13:27] <Anastasia> Looking square at Usagi with luminous eyes, "Is that true, Usagi," she asks cautiously.
[13:29] * Usagi-chan nods. "She..." She looks down for a moment. "I wasn't able to help her mother in time, and she wanted to stay with me."
[13:30] <Anastasia> "Oh, Usagi," she whispers a moment, then shakes her head and turns to her granddaughter with a big smile. "Of course you can, Chibi Usa," she says, going past you and taking up the girl in a hug. "You can stay here as long as you want."
[13:31] * Usagi-chan lets out a small sigh of relief. Not that she didn't think her mother would agree, but not knowing for sure had been worrying her.
[13:32] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa cries a bit, returning the hug again. "Thank you..."
[13:33] <Anastasia> "I wouldn't let my granddaughter be homeless," Ikkuko smiles, picking up the girl with a grunt. "You're just in time to help with dinner, Chibi Usa."
[13:34] * Usagi-chan smiles... life seems to be getting back to normal again, finally. "How long until dinner?" she asks eagerly. "I'm starving!"
[13:35] <Anastasia> "A few hours, Usagi. You can get a snack if you want," she says as she carries Chibi Usa into the kitchen.
[13:38] * Usagi-chan follows the pair into the kitchen, looking for any kind of fresh fruit she can snack on - she's had her fill of crackers and canned goods in the last week.
[13:38] <Anastasia> There are some apples and pears in fridge, both reasonably fresh. "Chibi Usa, do you remember how to stir the pot?" Ikkuko asks her as she gets her going, sending you a glance as you arise with fruit.
[13:40] * Usagi-chan grabs a pear, the sweet fruit disappearing rapidly. "Mmm... that's really good. Haven't had anything fresh in days," she says with a contented smile.
[13:42] <Anastasia> "How was it, Usagi-chan?" Mom asks with a hint of worry, as she helps Chibi Usa stir the pot from atop a stool.
[13:43] <Usagi-chan> "It was pretty rough at first," Usagi admits, leaning against the counter. "But everything's been straightened out there, and things should be getting back to normal for everyone there soon."
[13:45] <Anastasia> As the two members of the family stir the pot, Mom's hands guiding Chibi Usa's, who looks a bit more relaxed already, "Good. Have you been eating well? Sleeping alright?"
[13:46] <Usagi-chan> "Well, about all we had there was canned food and crackers for food - everything else had pretty much gone bad. And believe me, I got plenty of sleep while I was gone." She makes a face. 'Four full days worth...'
[13:47] <Anastasia> "Well, it's sukiyaki night, and there is a chocolate cream pie in the fridge," she smiles. "So you'll eat well today. Are all your friends doing well, Usagi?"
[13:48] <Usagi-chan> "Everyone else is fine," Usagi says with a smile. "Ami got a little banged up the first day we arrived, but she's as good as new now after some rest."
[13:50] <Anastasia> Nodding again at that and leaving Chibi Usa to stir dinner for a moment, she walks suggestively out of the kitchen to the living room...
[13:50] * Usagi-chan follows her mother out, guessing that she wants to hear a bit more. "Be back in just a minute, Chibi Usa-chan."
[13:51] <Anastasia> Once on the other side of the house, "What happened to her mother, Usagi?" she asks, knowing full well who her mother is.
[13:54] <Usagi-chan> "You remember that she's from the future, right?" Usagi asks quietly. "In the other world, anyway." At her mother's nod, she goes on. "Apparently everything that happened there after she came to this world... changed the future. Her mother never existed in the way she was when Chibi Usa was born now. I know the Usagi that lives there is okay - I helped get her back on her feet myself - but she won't grow up to become Chibi Usa's mother now."
[13:55] <Anastasia> Ikkuko considers this for a few seconds. "And so she's here now? She has no future to return to?"
[13:56] * Usagi-chan nods. "She can't stand the Usagi in the other world, but apparently I remind her of her own mother a lot - so I said she could stay with me."
[13:59] <Anastasia> Nodding thoughtfully, "So... she's staying here," she confirms, having thought this over already. Smiling at Usagi, "You're a mother now, then, Usagi. At least in spirit."
[14:00] * Usagi-chan nods, giving her mother a small smile. "I guess I am, sort of."
[14:20] <Anastasia> "You're lucky - you skipped the diapers, at least," Ikkuko smiles fondly at you. "You're just in time to help get her registered for kindergarten, Usagi."
[14:21] * Usagi-chan smiles wryly. "I'm definitely going to need TONS of help with this, that's for sure. I'm not sure I even know where to START being a mom."
[14:24] <Anastasia> "That's normal," she smiles, recalling the time she had with Usagi's diapers, late night feedings and other such things. "You'll do fine, though, Usagi. You're not a baby yourself anymore."
[14:26] * Usagi-chan sighs a bit, still smiling. "Guess I'll just have to do the best I can." She leans up and gives her mother a kiss on the cheek. "Thanks for letting her stay, Mom."
[14:27] <Anastasia> "I do want a granddaughter, Usagi," she simply replies, smiling... oddly. "Even if the means were unusual."
[14:29] * Usagi-chan smiles. "I know. I was just kind of worried about it because of you guys having to pay for Eiko, I kind of felt bad for offering to let Chibi Usa stay without asking you first."
[14:31] <Anastasia> "We'll be fine, even if Eiko is still pestering us," she says, not even frowning at Eiko. Not today, with what just happened.
[14:32] <Usagi-chan> "Are Daddy and Shingo home? I saw the car outside, and I'd like to go say hi if they're here. I missed all you guys a lot while I was gone." Usagi asks, not really wanting to ruin her day with further talk of Eiko either.
[14:33] <Anastasia> "He's in his room asleep, and Shingo isn't home yet," Ikkuko explains, as you head back into the kitchen. "You can go wake him up - he won't mind a bit, Usagi."
[14:34] * Usagi-chan smiles. "I'll do that then." She heads off towards her parents' bedroom, then pauses at the door to the living room. "It's really, really good to be home," she says with a smile.
[14:35] <Anastasia> Mom nods as she heads into the kitchen to keep an eye on the newest addition to your family, smiling as you hear her saying something to Chibi Usa...
[14:36] * Usagi-chan smiles as she pads off quietly, entering her parents' bedroom with hardly a sound. Seeing her father sprawled out on the bed, she kneels down next to him and speaks quietly in his ear. "Daddy..."
[14:47] <Anastasia> Your Dad is snoring softly in a pair of old sweats, sleeping away the afternoon. He barely stirs at the first whisper... "Mmm..."
[14:47] * Usagi-chan giggles softly, speaking up a little. "Daddy, wake up!"
[14:48] <Anastasia> "Mmm... it's not dinner time yet, is it," he murmurs, not really awake, one glasses-less eye opening slightly.
[14:49] * Usagi-chan grins. "Not yet," she agrees, making sure she's in his field of vision.
[14:50] <Anastasia> "Let me sleep, dear," he manages, his eye closing again.
[14:52] <Usagi-chan> "Daddy..." Usagi says in a half whine. "Wake up already!" She pushes her father slightly.
[14:53] <Anastasia> "Mmm... Usagi... Usagi?" He opens eyes finally, eyeing you. "You're back already," he manages, brain still somewhere in dreamland.
[14:53] * Usagi-chan giggles, nodding. "We just got back a couple of hours ago," she says with a smile. "Mom told me it was okay to wake you up."
[14:54] <Anastasia> "Good to see you," he says, sitting up and taking his glasses from the nightstand. "Had fun whereever you ended up?"
[14:55] * Usagi-chan makes a face. "Wouldn't call it FUN exactly, but things turned out pretty well."
[14:55] <Anastasia> Nodding, he smiles a bit now that he's semi-awake. "Good, Usagi. Your Mom was worried ab... *YAWN*... worried about you."
[14:56] * Usagi-chan sits down on the bed next to her father, giving him a sideways hug. "I missed you guys a lot while I was gone. Anything happen while I was away?"
[15:00] <Anastasia> He nods to that. "We missed you too, Usagi-chan. Nothing really, except for Shingo admitting he missed you," he adds that with a smile.
[15:03] * Usagi-chan grins. "I even missed him too - although I bet I'll never get him to admit it." She rests her head on her father's shoulder for a minute. "And I have kind of a surprise, too. I brought Chibi Usa home with me to stay."
[15:07] <Anastasia> That causes him to blink, speaking slowly. "You brought Chibi Usa home... to stay? As in, live here full time?"
[15:08] * Usagi-chan nods, her smile slipping a little. "She... lost her real home, and I couldn't just leave her with no place to go."
[15:12] <Anastasia> He stops, his smile vanishing. "I'm sorry to hear that," he finally says. "You couldn't leave her just to... no, you couldn't. All right, then," he sighs. "Eiko's stuff is already gone from the attic, so it's just a matter of redecorating now."
[15:14] * Usagi-chan smiles again. "Thanks, Daddy... I promise she won't be any trouble - her mom will see to that," she says with a giggle.
[15:15] <Anastasia> "Her Mom," he asks, looking at you with an interested gaze.
[15:17] * Usagi-chan nods, grinning. "Uh huh." she says decisively. "Although I don't think I'll have to do much - she's been really well-behaved so far."
[15:23] <Anastasia> "Well..." he muses simply, thinking it over. "At least you're doing the right thing, Usagi."
[15:25] <Usagi-chan> "I'm trying to," she replies. "I'm just really glad to be back home - it's been a long, LONG week."
[15:25] <Anastasia> "It has for all of us..." he agrees, standing. "Come on, Usagi. We'll discuss this over dinner."
[15:27] * Usagi-chan smiles. "I don't know what I've missed more," she says as she stands. "Being with everyone here or Mom's cooking. Mako-chan's a great cook, but there's only so much she can do with canned stuff." The blonde makes a face at that.
[15:28] <Anastasia> He smiles. "Ikkuko's making a good dinner, at least," he says as the two of you exit, down to the kitchen...
[20:32] <Ebiris> -------
[09:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> Once the meeting has wrapped, you end up in a late model Japanese car as Professor Tomoe drives to the Shrine. It still smells new car-ish, the man thoughtful as you are taken home...
[09:23] <Rei-chan> "So, how has Hotaru-chan been doing?" Rei asks, making conversation.
[09:24] <Sailor_Anastasia> "She's been spending almost all of her spare time at the Shrine now," he says, smiling a bit. "I think she sees the Hikawa Shrine more than her room these days... she's even taking up calligraphy at home, trying to make basic charms."
[09:25] * Rei-chan nods. "I taught her a few before I left. Probably a bit more advanced than I should be teaching her right now, but..." she trails off, not really wanting to admit how worried she was before they left for the other dimension.
[09:27] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods to that as he steers the car, letting a small river of silence pass before he replies. "She's putting all of her energy into, Rei." He pauses again, half wary. "I'm glad that she's found something she likes, but I'm worried that she's overdoing it. Her teachers are saying her homework is slipping behind again and that one of them caught her working on charms in class."
[09:29] <Rei-chan> "Ah," Rei looks thoughtful, "That's a concern. I'll talk to her about that. Dedication is good, but I don't want other things to suffer for it."
[09:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yes. I think she's using it as an escape from being Sailor Saturn and the Mistress," he goes on levelly, though worry is in his voice. "That's fine, but I think she may be taking it too far."
[09:32] <Rei-chan> "Hmm..." Rei mulls over that for a moment. "I don't know if you've noticed anything yourself, but when she gets particularly emotional her aura tends to... well, flare. Considering some of the powers Sailor Saturn is supposed to possess, that could turn very ugly. I've actually been teaching her meditation techniques at an advanced rate to help her get them under control, but I don't think she knows the real reason I'm doing it."
[09:36] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I'm aware of this, yes," he comments. "It's not surprising. The Mistress had flare-ups and downs herself, and Hotaru showed a few very minor signs even before that." He slows a bit, thinking. "I was planning on spending some time trying to teach her a measure of control once you got back, but if that meditation works well enough..."
[09:39] <Rei-chan> "It's a slow process, but it carries other benefits. If your method will help her more in the short term, I think you should do what you can," Rei suggests. "In any case, I'll ease off on her spiritual studies." She smiles, "There's still plenty of other things we can do together when she visits, after all."
[09:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Once she begins to mature mentally, I'm sure that control will follow. She's a fine girl, Rei, just a very wounded girl who isn't over her injuries yet." A strange, sad smile passes onto Tomoe's face there, his voice introspective. "When she really comes to grips with what happened in the past years, she'll be alright."
[09:44] * Rei-chan nods. "I've no doubt about that - she's already come a long way from how she was just after we rescued her from Germatou, and I'm sure she'll continue to improve."
[09:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nodding as he turns to park near the Shrine, "One day, I think she'll end up as a Sailor in full," he muses. "I don't think it's something she can run from forever, or perhaps even much longer."
[09:47] <Rei-chan> "That's for sure. But that's a ways off. Even without her troubles, she's still awfully young," Rei says, unbuckling her seatbelt and exiting the car after the Professor parks it.
[09:49] <Sailor_Anastasia> As you exit out, you notice the Shrine, even from here, looks greener. The trees look more vibrant, bits of ivy poking down the walls, a certain fresh vitality to the area.
[09:50] <Rei-chan> Smiling as she approaches, Rei muses aloud, "I wonder if I can talk Tellu into helping out here more often...?"
[09:52] <Sailor_Anastasia> Tomoe smiles. "She seems to do it on instinct," he comments. As you get to the bottom of the steps, you note that there seems to be a good volume of people coming back and forth today to the Shrine.
[09:53] <Rei-chan> "Busy day, today," Rei notes. "Have to say, this is making a really nice change from the Hikawa Shrine we stayed at in the other dimension."
[09:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I heard," he comments as you ascend the stairs. "Apparently, the new Shrine girls have helped attract more people."
[09:56] * Rei-chan chuckles embarassedly, "I guess I shouldn't underestimate my Grandpa. I was sure he'd scare off everyone I asked..."
[09:57] <Sailor_Anastasia> "A former youma isn't much for someone who's served under Germatou," he laughs a bit, amused. As you reach the top, you see Tellu about, dressed in miko robes at the charm shack, doing decent business with Hotaru. "Thank you," the young Saturn smiles, bowing to the man who just bought a love charm.
[09:59] * Rei-chan cheerfully approaches her friends. "Hi guys!" she waves. "Looks like you've been doing a great job with this place," she comments, honestly impressed.
[10:01] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Hi, Rei-chan," Hotaru darts from the line, leaving Tellu to manage it. "Hi, Daddy!" Such cheer is almost alien to the girl, but she honestly looks happy right now. "We had an idol singer come up here and she said in an interview that we had a really nice Shrine, so all of her fans have been coming to buy charms," she explains, excited enough to let her words jumble a bit.
[10:04] <Rei-chan> "Wow," Rei looks at the uncommonly large amount of visitors, "The media is a powerful thing. Still," she smiles, taking in the happy buzz of the place and the vibrant flora, "it looks like you guys have done an even better job here than I could have managed."
[10:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> Professor Tomoe nods. "You have done a good job, Hotaru-chan."
[10:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> The little girl smiles even more. "Thanks... we just got lucky," she demurs a bit.
[10:07] <Rei-chan> "Luck or not, you've done a great job," Rei nods. "I should probably get back to work myself, I guess." Feeling energised just by seeing her Shrine so abuzz, she hurries to her room to get changed into her own miko robes.
[10:09] <Sailor_Anastasia> As you head inside, "Rei," Gramps calls from inside. He's sitting at the table in a loose white shirt and shorts, drinking lemonade. "You're back already?"
[10:10] <Rei-chan> "Hi, Grandpa," Rei smiles, "We all just got back less than an hour ago."
[10:11] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods. "Come and sit down," he offers. "With all these cute girls helping out, I can finally take a well-earned break."
[10:13] * Rei-chan does so. "I'm glad things have worked out so well here," she comments. "I was kind of afraid of what the place would be like when I got back."
[10:14] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Of course things worked out well," he says, sparing you the normal plunge into melodrama. "With myself and a bevy of beautiful women, the Shrine should prosper like no other!"
[10:16] * Rei-chan giggles. "Viluy did say you were rather charming. I guess you weren't lying when you said I got it from you."
[10:29] <Sailor_Anastasia> He smiles back. "Of course I am! No woman can resist me, or my granddaughter," he nods in agreement. "The blood is just too strong."
[10:31] <Rei-chan> "The Rei I met in that other world would disagree," Rei grins. "It sure was odd to meet myself like that, let me tell you."
[10:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> He chuckles at that. "Two blooming members of the Hino line in the same Shrine? It would have been flooded with cute girls."
[10:34] <Rei-chan> "Oh, it was," Rei nods, "But the place wasn't exactly in very good shape. Between all the negative energy and having an UFO crash on it... but coming home to see the place like this really does me a world of good."
[10:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> "A UFO crashed on that Shrine?" he asks. "How terrible..."
[10:36] * Rei-chan rubs the back of her head, blushing. "Yeah... it was shooting at us so we shot back. We didn't really think about what would happen next," she admits.
[10:40] <Sailor_Anastasia> He blinks. "Thank you, o Kami, for giving me a granddaughter and not a grandson," he intones, bowing. "The way you shoot first and don't think about it, I'd be a greatgrandfather if you were a man." Admittedly, his voice works up to a cheery taunting level by the time he's said it, but... yeah.
[10:41] <Rei-chan> "Grandpa!" Rei yelps in a scandalised tone, swatting at his bald head.
[10:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> He laughs, rubbing his head. "It's true, with your impulsiveness and being my grandson, I'd already have another family member to look out for," he grins.
[10:42] <Rei-chan> "Would not!" Rei denies, blushing furiously.
[10:43] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Usagi would say otherwise," he laughs, hopping up. "Wouldn't she, Rei-chan?"
[10:44] <Rei-chan> "Kya!" Rei covers her rosy cheeks with her hands. "You're such a pervert, Grandpa!"
[10:46] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Am I, GRANDDAUGHTER," he laughs wildly as he emphasizes that word.
[10:47] <Rei-chan> "Gah!" Gathering the tattered remnants of her dignity, Rei stands up, "I'm going to go help Tellu outside," so saying, she positively flees from the room to get changed and escape outside where hopefully her grandfather will have enough sence of propriety to behave himself.
[10:50] <Sailor_Anastasia> Coming outside, you see that the girls are just wrapping up. "We're all out of charms for the day, please come back tomorrow," Hotaru announces, bowing once as Tellu comes out from behind the counter.
[10:51] <Rei-chan> Hoping that her blush has subsided, Rei approaches the pair. "Hi guys," she waves lamely, still rather traumatised by her previous conversation.
[10:52] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Hi," Tellu nods, as the line breaks up. "How did it go, Rei?"
[10:55] <Rei-chan> "Not as bad as we worried, actually," Rei smiles, calming down a bit as she pulls up alongside her friends. "The other Tokyo was a bit of a wreck to begin with, and there were a few rough fights, but we all came through it okay." She chooses not to mention any of Usagi's recent troubles, hoping the blonde will recover before it ever becomes an issue, "We even got to meet our counterparts in that dimension."
[10:57] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nodding, "How did that go, Rei? Did you meet our counterparts as well?"
[10:59] * Rei-chan shakes her head. "Cyprine said that world's Deathbusters were active, but we never encountered any of them." She leans against the wall of the charms booth, "My other self was... well, she was pretty high-strung, I have to admit."
[11:03] <Sailor_Anastasia> She just nods to the former, and inquires about the latter. "High-strung? Did she not deal with you well?"
[11:05] <Rei-chan> "She had a lot of difficulty dealing with the differences between us." Rei coughs, "It was kind of like seeing myself a year ago if someone had told me I'd wind up with Usagi."
[11:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> She nods at that. "Or a year ago if I'd end up working with all of you on the Moon."
[11:09] <Rei-chan> "Well, working on the Moon is unusual," Rei grants, "But you don't know what Usagi and I used to be like. We used to fight all the time, and the Rei and Usagi in that world still do. They freaked out rather badly at the possibility they could be lesbians and wind up with each other. There were a few other things that upset her as well, but it's not really my place to say..." she defers, avoiding the juicy gossip regarding Ami and Makoto.
[11:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> Taking that in thoughtfully, Hotaru picks up a bit. "Just like two quibbling sisters," she adds in.
[11:15] * Rei-chan smiles, "Yeah, kind of." Changing the subject, she picks up, "So, other than working at the Shrine, what else has been happening here? I heard a bit about Kaolinite's brother, have either of you two met him?"
[08:30] <Anastasia> Wiping her forehead at the persistant warmth of mid/late summer, "I haven't met him," Tellu confirms, "But Eudial's been spending some time with him."
[08:32] <Rei-chan> "I suppose I'll probably see him when school starts up again," Rei muses. "Eudial's been spending time with him, huh? Think they might be hitting it off?"
[08:34] <Anastasia> Going over with Hotaru to sit down on the wooden flooring rimming the buildings of the Shrine, Tellu begins to undo her hair and sigh at the heat. "Eudial did seem to be in a good mood yesterday," she says by way of commenting on the matter.
[08:36] <Rei-chan> "Hmm..." Rei refrains from commenting on Kaolinite's fate in front of Hotaru, although she does wonder how things will play out between her brother and Eudial. "Anyway, just wait here a moment and I'll get us some drinks," she says, heading inside to get some cool drinks for her hardworking friends.
[08:38] <Anastasia> Going inside, you see Gramps still working away on a cup of lemonade, now watching TV on some comedy hour. He looks to be enjoying it as you pass by.
[08:39] * Rei-chan tries not to draw his attention to herself as she goes into the kitchen, pouring three glasses of iced tea and returning outside to Hotaru and Tellu. "Here you go," she hands them over, sitting down and keeping one for herself.
[08:41] <Anastasia> Taking them, "Thanks, Rei-chan," Hotaru smiles, as both girls work on the cool drinks.
[08:41] <Rei-chan> "So, you guys got any other plans for the rest of the holidays?" Rei asks, leaning back and relaxing in the sunshine.
[08:43] <Anastasia> "Nothing much," Tellu replies after gulping down half of her drink. "Work up on the Moon where it's cool, and study for Math next term."
[08:45] <Anastasia> "Not really, sis," Hotaru shakes her head.
[08:45] <Rei-chan> "Yeah. I still haven't even started the homework I got over the holidays," Rei says, making a face. "I was planning to just relax for the rest of the time off, but it'll probably take a few days solid work to get all that done."
[08:49] <Anastasia> "You could get Daddy to write you a note for it, Rei-chan," Hotaru suggests. "He's done that for me before."
[08:51] * Rei-chan shakes her head. "It has to get done - otherwise I'll fall behind everyone else in my classes." She stretches, "It's not that big a deal. Doing homework is still less stressful than fighting evil in another dimension."
[08:52] <Anastasia> Coming from the guest bathrooms, Professor Tomoe approaches quietly. "Hotaru, are you ready to leave now?" he asks, just missing the previous comment.
[08:55] <Anastasia> "I have homework, too," Hotaru admits at that, standing. "I'll see you tomorrow, Rei-chan!"
[08:55] <Rei-chan> "Bring your homework with you tomorrow," Rei suggests, smiling, "We can both study together."
[08:58] <Anastasia> "Okay, Rei-chan," she smiles at that, as Professor Tomoe leads her away. "I'll talk to you tomorrow as well, Rei," he says on a more serious note.
[08:59] * Rei-chan nods to the Professor as they depart, turning back to Tellu as the father and daughter start down the stairs. "What about Phobos and Deimos? Have they been behaving themselves while I was gone?"
[09:02] <Anastasia> "They've stayed quiet and low, since there have been so many people here," she explains. "Staying in the trees and playing a good deal."
[09:07] <Rei-chan> "That's good. Just so long as they haven't given you or Hotaru any trouble," Rei nods to herself.
[09:07] <Rei-chan> The miko looks around at the aforementioned trees, currently bursting with vitality. "Say, Tellu. I know I only asked you to cover for me while I was away, but would you be interested in working here more often? Even say a day or two a week? I never thought there was a problem with the trees and plants around here, but the difference you've made is amazing."
[09:11] <Anastasia> The girl smiles a bit at that, looking over to the foliage. "Thank you, Rei. It's just a matter of talking to them and spending a bit of attention... I could manage once a week, sure," she smiles. "Viluy too, probably. She seems to get along really well with your grandfather."
[09:15] <Rei-chan> "Yeah, I saw her when we arrived back at Mugen and she mentioned." 'I guess he hides his true nature around other girls...' "I don't want to take too much time from either of you, but just whenever you can spare a bit will be a big help." She smiles contentedly, recalling how upset she'd been when Yuuichiro said Hikawa in the other dimension was finished - at least the old place is thriving, here.
[09:21] <Anastasia> "Sure," she agrees. "If you'll be willing to help me with the Moon garden every so often - an extra pair of hands can help with some of th heavier work I have to do," she explains, enjoying the thought.
[09:22] <Rei-chan> "It's a deal," Rei nods cheerfully.

[09:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> It's good to be home. Of course, Mom's not here, probably working another double shift at the hospital, or something equally time-consuming. Artemis is, however, coming out to greet you by the front door. "You're back, Ami," he smiles. "I'd heard that you girls were coming soon, but I thought it wasn't until tomorrow or the day after?"
[09:21] * Ami-chan smiles a bit absentmindedly in greeting as she takes off her shoes. "Yes, we were a bit rushed... they detected the Deathbusters, and wanted us to avoid notice, if possible."
[09:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods to that, his feline face interested. "That world's Deathbusters? Did you have a run in with them?"
[09:25] <Ami-chan> "No, fortunately." Ami smiles ruefully. "That would have complicated things a great deal."
[09:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Indeed it would have. Did you girls have enough dealing with the source of the problems in that world and helping Chibi Usa's mother?" At that, Artemis jumps onto your shoulder playfully, sitting himself around your neck.
[09:29] * Ami-chan smiles sadly. "We managed to take care of the source of the problems, but... Chibi Usa's timeline was destroyed in the process." She responds quietly. "She'll be staying with Usagi now..."
[09:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> Artemis pauses at that, frowning. "That poor girl," he sighs. "How is she still here if her timeline was wiped out, though? If she never existed," he pauses again, temporal mechanics logic sorting itself in his head. "shouldn't she have not ever been, or have shown... up..."
[09:33] * Ami-chan begins walking into the kitchen, heading to the fridge, sounding a little perplexed as she responds. "Apparently, it's due to the Silver Crystal from her future." She explains. "The energy powering it is sustaining her life force... I don't completely understand it myself."
[09:36] <Sailor_Anastasia> Artemis shakes his head at that. "Bah. Nevermind, then." Dismissing the whys of it in favor of the more practical effects, "I guess Usagi's mother got herself another daughter," he muses. "Could you get me some milk out of there, Ami-chan?"
[09:40] * Ami-chan smiles and nods, pulling out a can of soda as well as a milk carton from the fridge. "Basically." she agrees, heading to the cupboard for a shallow dish. "Though Usagi seems determined to be a mother to her as well, so 'granddaughter' might be more accurate."
[09:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> Artemis gets up, lightly sinking his claws into your shoulders as he leaps off you to the counter. "I hope Usagi can manage that on top of everything else. She's getting more and more responsibilities. Even then, though, I would think her Mom would take care of a good part of it."
[09:42] <Ami-chan> "Perhaps." Ami nods, pouring Artemis a decent sized serving. "But I'm in no position to lecture about taking on too much." she sighs, smiling faintly as she opens her soda.
[09:44] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Thanks, Ami-chan," he says, taking a few laps of it before going on. "I still think you should cut back some. Between school, tutoring and being a Sailor, I barely have time to talk to you anymore." He smiles up at you at that, chuckling. "You're more interesting to talk to than your mother, too."
[09:46] * Ami-chan smiles and puts the milk away. "You're welcome." She giggles, levering herself up to sit on the counter. "I miss talking to you, too... but I explained to you why I wanted this... I do have to see it through."
[09:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yeah," he agrees. "I understand why, but I'd still rather see you here more. I'm having to resort to reading your Mom's books on medicine and pyschology." He chuckles. "Oh, about that - your Mom got a nasty surprise when she found me reading one of her books in human form," the white Mau blushes a bit at that. "I nearly got the police called before I explained things."
[09:50] * Ami-chan bursts into giggles, feeling better than she has since... well, since a day or so ago. "I can imagine how that went. How did she take it? I'm sorry about forgetting to mention it..." She smiles, brightening some.
[09:52] <Sailor_Anastasia> "She screamed and called me a pervert," he laughs a bit himself. "She was already halfway to calling down a police squad on me before I managed to get through to her. I swear, she must have jumped eight feet in the air when she saw me."
[09:55] * Ami-chan laughs harder, and smothers her giggling with one hand. "I wish I'd been here to see it." she admits, after calming down. "Nothing else eventful happened?"
[09:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> "One thing," Artemis says. "Or two, actually. Apparently, there is a new student at Mugen, one with considerable talent at magic. He also claims to be Kaolinite's brother."
[09:57] * Ami-chan blinks, a sudden uneasiness coming into her expression. "Really? Is he... going to cause trouble?" she asks, remembering all too well what happened to Kaolinite.
[09:57] <Sailor_Anastasia> *Brother, not sister. My bad.
[09:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> "No. He's a lot more sociable and easygoing than Kaolinite was by all reports. Professor Tomoe hasn't told him everything of what happened yet, but... Eudial seems to think he's cool, and the others don't have any objections about him."
[09:59] <Sailor_Anastasia> Artemis goes back to his milk for a bit after that, considering. "I haven't met him myself, but I think Professor Tomoe is putting him in the Witches to keep an eye on him - you'll have to not mention your Sailor business around him, too. He doesn't know yet."
[10:01] * Ami-chan relaxes marginally, and nods. "Better safe than sorry." She agrees. "Well... if Professor Tomoe is keeping an eye on him, it should be alright, at least for now..." She hesitates. "What's the other thing?"
[10:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I ran into Ann yesterday," he goes on. "Apparently, some girl at Mugen challenged her to a fight over something, and one thing led to another - she seems to have some talent as well. She's a huge fan of the Sailor Senshi, and wants to learn from Ann to 'Help those noble champions' or somesuch."
[10:03] * Ami-chan blink-blinks. "A... senshi otaku?" She ventures, unsure of how to react to that.
[10:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> He chuckles. "Ann's having fun stringing her along and seeing what she can do, from what I gathered. If she's really talented, we might want to at least check her out."
[10:05] * Ami-chan nods, thoughtfully. "Though, if she is... a fan, we may need to proceed cautiously."
[10:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yeah. She knows Ann has supernatural powers, but she doesn't know anything about us." He finishes off his milk, thinking. "Ann can take care of herself, and as long as she doesn't let secrets slip, I don't think it's a risk."
[10:08] * Ami-chan nods. "Probably." she agrees thoughtfully. "This should make school interesting when we go back." she reflects, her face growing somber at that thought.
[10:10] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods. "You still have another week or so of summer break, at least." At that, Artemis hops onto your shoulders again, purring slightly as he curls around your warm neck. "So... how exactly did it go over there?"
[10:12] * Ami-chan smiles wanly, but takes a measure of contentment in petting the white cat as she heads into the living room to sit down. "By all accounts, we did the best we could have hoped for..." She replies softly. "I missed quite a bit of the battles."
[10:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> "How well was that?" he asks, before hearing the second part of it. "You weren't hurt, were you, Ami-chan?" Artemis hops off to the floor, giving you a critical eyeing.
[10:15] <Ami-chan> "Usagi revived me." Ami sighs. "I nearly died in the battle to take the shrine."
[10:17] <Sailor_Anastasia> He sighs at that. "At least you're alive," he murmurs, looking at you to remind himself of the fact. "What happened?"
[10:18] * Ami-chan makes a face. "I just couldn't seem to avoid any attacks." she admits. "The progress I've made in training obviously hasn't been enough."
[10:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> He sighs. "Seems so, then," he agrees. "You know... at this rate, maybe I should try helping you train a bit as well. I'm no Sailor, but I learned some basics at defending myself back during the Silver Millenium."
[10:21] * Ami-chan smiles as she scratches idly behind Artemis' ears. "I'd appreciate any help I could get." she agrees. "I'll make time for it." She falls quiet, staring at the floor a moment.
[10:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> "We'll make time," he corrects you. "As it is, you also need to make more time for sleeping, Ami-chan. I've lost count of the cans of soda you drink a day now." He shakes his head, sighing. "It's no good if you kill yourself before the battles even begin, Ami. You're a teenager, you should be taking it a bit easier."
[10:25] * Ami-chan smiles at Artemis wryly. "Isn't that when I'm physically most resilient?" she observes. "I do understand the concern, Artemis, but I have trouble sleeping anyway. Why shouldn't I get things done?"
[10:27] <Sailor_Anastasia> "You need some downtime, or you'll work yourself to death," he sighs. "I saw it every so often in the Silver Millenium when some up and coming court figure tried to impress the Queen. They'd go on and on until they finally passed out in public and got a firm 'calm down' order from the doctors."
[10:33] * Ami-chan sighs, knowing enough from being the child of a physician to recognize the truth in her friend's words. "I know." she admits. "But... I need to be busy. I... think too much when I have nothing to do." she tries to explain, sighing at the faltering of her words.
[10:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Thinking too much, Ami?" he asks, recalling a few of her more open comments. "Something bothering you about that?"
[10:39] <Ami-chan> "I... yes. I may have created a problem." Ami sighs, needing to unburden herself. "I'd prefer it if you didn't tell anyone about this, though."
[10:39] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Of course," he says without hesitation. "You know I'll keep my lips sealed. Besides, Luna would maul me if I let out sweet Ami-chan's secrets."
[10:40] <Sailor_Anastasia> He smirks just a bit at that, at the thought of the other Mau in his life.
[10:48] * Ami-chan smiles a little, blushing just a bit. "Mm... I let down my guard to one of the senshi from their world... and..." She sighs, frustrated emotion stirring behind her eyes. "Events got out of hand. Something that I thought I'd dealt with came back to haunt me."
[10:49] <Sailor_Anastasia> He smiles back. "You'll have to give me a few more details, Ami-chan, if you want me to give you good advice." He doesn't overly press, letting his words stand. "What happened?"
[10:51] <Ami-chan> "I was talking..." she begins hesitantly. "... to their Makoto, about my counterpart... which somehow led to me." She elaborates, but only slightly. "I... ended up kissing her." she says baldly, shyly looking for Artemis' reaction before she elaborates.
[10:54] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Oh." Artemis says with perfect eloquence, blinking. "So... you ARE interested like that," he concludes. "Guess you know now, at least. How did that Makoto take it?"
[10:59] * Ami-chan smiles, touching her lips and staring at nothing for a moment. "She was kind about it." she admits quietly. "I'd explained to her about how I'd felt about our Mako-chan, and then... she kissed me. As a... present, of sorts." Ami said softly, words coming easier now. "I knew it couldn't go anywhere, and I wasn't looking for anything... but now I think maybe I didn't get over her, as I'd thought..."
[11:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods to that. "Yes... and our Makoto is spoken for," he adds, perhaps unneededly. "Did anything else come of it?"
[11:03] * Ami-chan gives Artemis a pained smile at the reminder, but doesn't say anything about it. "...Yes." She hesitates, and glances at Artemis, in sudden concern. "Their Rei and... Minako caught us." she says quietly.
[11:03] <Sailor_Anastasia> Artemis sighs a bit at the mention of Minako. "Their Minako? How is she doing... is Minako over there well?"
[11:05] * Ami-chan smiles gently, and nods. "She seems so... save for a tendency to run off at the mouth." she replies, a touch sourly as she recalls dinner. "But yes, she's happy, and fine."
[11:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> Artemis smiles wistfully at that. "Good... she deserves a happy life." That brings a short silence as he ponders the original problem. "That Rei and that Minako... did word of this reach our girls... were you exposed to them?" he asks, hoping it wasn't the case as he looks on with symphetic eyes.
[11:07] * Ami-chan sighs, and simply nods, feeling her mood drop again.
[11:09] <Sailor_Anastasia> "At least it's far from the first time one of you girls has come out about being bisexual or a lesbian," he concedes. "I could certainly choose a better way for it to happen, but at least they shouldn't think you're a pervert or a freak. That's a good start." He thinks, doing mental damage assessment. "How did our Makoto take it?"
[11:10] <Ami-chan> "I don't know if she knows, yet." Ami sighs. "I'm afraid to talk to her, right now."
[11:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> "You should go ahead and talk to her tonight or tomorrow," he says after a bit more pondering. "No need to let it fester - you have the fundamental problem to solve regardless."
[11:16] * Ami-chan winces. "I can't." She murmurs nervously. "I don't even know that she knows, and... the way I feel right now..." She struggles to explain herself, but words again are slow in coming. "I don't want to have to work through this again." she fairly pleads.
[11:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> Artemis nods finally, before shimmering and growing about six feet taller and rather cuter. He walks over, sitting next to you on the couch with the best smile he can manage. "Ami-chan... you can't run from this now. Even if Makoto doesn't know right now, she'll find out sooner or later."
[11:22] * Ami-chan sighs, smiling faintly at Artemis' human form. "I know... I should, but... accepting that Mako-chan wouldn't feel the same about me was the hardest thing I ever had to do... I don't want to feel that way again..."
[11:24] <Sailor_Anastasia> He reaches out, patting you on the shoulder. "Yeah... but... you have to move on, Ami-chan. Makoto seems happy with Alan, and unless that changes, you'll just torture yourself."
[11:27] * Ami-chan sighs, and wilts a little, shaking her headand smiling wryly. "Even so, Mako-chan has been pretty vocal about 'not being that way'." She observes. "I know I should clear the air, but... I'm afraid to talk about it."
[11:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> "You shouldn't be," he comforts you, drawing you to rest your head on his shoulder. "Ami-chan, Mako-chan is your friend and comrade. She'll understand... she won't push you aside or hate you."
[11:35] * Ami-chan nods, slumping against Artemis miserably. "I know... but even if she doesn't... how can it be the same?" she replies, feeling faintly sick. "Mako-chan is forgiving to a fault, but something like that... it would make things awkward."
[11:36] <Sailor_Anastasia> "It might for a little while," he agrees, wrapping an arm around you. "But she'll forget and forgive, Ami. Heck... her and Usagi will probably try to match you up with the next girl they see you looking at," he chortles, trying to spread cheer to her.
[11:39] * Ami-chan giggles quietly. "I hope not... I don't have very good luck in this area." she murmurs, smiling slightly, having staved off the urge to cry. "I don't know if I can, Artemis, but... I'll try and talk to her, if I don't lose my nerve."
[11:39] <Sailor_Anastasia> Smiling at you, "I'll be there for you if you like, Ami."
[11:41] * Ami-chan glances up at Artemis, smiling gratefully. "I may take you up on that." she says, after a moment's thought.
[11:43] <Sailor_Anastasia> At that, "Ami... Artemis?" Ami's mother blinks at the display of innocent closeness, standing at the door and having come in quietly while you were distracted.
[11:44] * Ami-chan looks up and smiles tiredly, not moving from her position. "Welcome home, mother."
[11:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> Blushing as she glances down at the girl leaning against him, he just waves with his free hand. "Hello, Dr. Mizuno," he says. "Um... Ami has had a really bad day, and..."
[11:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> Raising a tired hand to cut Artemis off. "Ami, this is totally innocent, correct? You aren't being intimate in any manner with Artemis, are you?" She twitches a bit, her normal composure not lasting after the day she's had on top of this.
[11:49] * Ami-chan blinks, startled. "No..." She starts, blushing. "Artemis is my friend, that's all. He already has a girlfriend." She says, trying to soothe her mother's mood.
[11:51] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Alright," she says, turning. "I'm gonig to take a bath, Ami-chan. Would you put on a frozen entree for all of us, and please disentangle yourself from Artemis?"
[11:55] <Ami-chan> "O-Okay." Ami replies, still blushing, and sitting up, giving Artemis an apologetic look.
[11:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> Artemis chuckles redly as your Mother heads off. "Sorry about that... Guess I got a bit too wrapped up in being a shoulder to cry on." 'At least it wasn't Luna...'
[11:57] * Ami-chan shakes her head and smiles. "Don't worry about it. If it helps, I'm glad you did... I needed to talk to someone."
[12:01] <Sailor_Anastasia> He smiles back. "I'm always here to listen," he offers, knowing how Ami must be feeling inside. "Say... I think we have a salmon dish of some sort in the freezer..."
[12:05] * Ami-chan giggles and nods. "Alright. You deserve it." she agrees, standing. "Thank you, Artemis... even for the shoulder." she adds, smiling. "I never did get the chance to do that with my father..."
-------
[09:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> Being back at Mugen is kind of funny, really. After your disasters and trials in that other world, just being here is almost otherworldly.
[09:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> Once the Professor dismisses all of you and you break up, you begin to head home, but Viluy stops you.
[09:23] <Haruka> "Something up, Viluy?" Haruka asks curiously.
[09:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yeah," she begins. "Got a few minutes right now?"
[09:26] * Haruka blinks at that. "Sure," she replies, already growing curious at what this might be about. "Did you want to talk about it here or somewhere else?"
[09:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> "How about over tea," she smiles slightly, nodding and walking in step with you.
[09:32] <Haruka> "Sounds good," she replies cheerily, the chance to unwind sounding as attractive as the company she's about to entertain.
[09:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nodding lightly and walking with only the clicking clatter of slightly high heels on the floor, you go upstairs and up the elevator. Viluy is more or less silent throughout, hands in front of her holding her schoolbag primly.
[09:37] * Haruka glances at Viluy cluelessly, wishing she had an inkling of what this might be about. "So, anything happen while we were away?" she asks, more to break the silence than for any real need to be up to date.
[09:38] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Nothing at all," she smiles slightly. "Except for Azurite, it's been almost completely boring."
[09:39] <Haruka> "Azurite?" Haruka echoes, the name not familiar to her. "Who would this be?"
[09:43] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Kaolinite's brother, Haruka," she laughs a bit, rather charmingly. "Weren't you paying attention back there?"
[09:47] <Haruka> "Oh..." Haruka coughs to hide some of her embarrassment while rubbing the bridge of her nose to mask the blush. "I guess I was tired or something," she replies, wishing the damnable elevator would stop already to give her an out of sorts.
[09:48] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Of course," Viluy just smiles as you exit out of the elevator as it stops and opens.
[09:52] * Haruka follows her out, mentally scolding herself, hoping that the remainder of the outing would be lacking further mental lapses on her part.
[09:54] <Sailor_Anastasia> Exiting out, you soon end up at an elegant little tea and coffee shop a few blocks from Mugen, tastefully decorated and maintained. The smell of coffee beans and sugar lace the air, a bit of soft background music playing. Getting seated is a trivial matter, Viluy ordering green tea.
[09:57] * Haruka orders some herbal tea for herself. She then gives her companion a questioning look, though she says nothing initially so as to allow Viluy the chance to begin the conversation at her own pace.
[09:59] <Sailor_Anastasia> After taking a single small sip from her drink, "Haruka..." she begins, feeling out how to best address the issue. "Did... you change at all after becoming Sailor Uranus?"
[10:03] <Haruka> Not quite expecting that to be a topic, Haruka falters a bit before collecting herself. "Hmm. Change in what way?" she asks, trying to coax a bit more from Viluy.
[10:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Well..." she looks down ever so slightly. "...little things. Changes in how you act and see things, changes in what you like."
[10:12] * Haruka blinks for a moment. "Changes in what you like?" she repeats, digesting the possible meaning behind it. "Could you give me anything specific?" she asks, though she already had some thought as to where this might be heading...
[10:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I... like how I move and how I present myself," she struggles with the words to find a good fit. "It's like I'm more... more graceful now. I'm starting to like music more, and swimming."
[10:22] <Haruka> "I'm not sure I know how to fully answer your question," Haruka begins, giving this matter some frank consideration. "When I became Uranus there was some changes with some of my past self started to bleed over into who I am today. But in your case..." she trails off slightly, "I can't really say anything with much certainty."
[10:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> Taking a second dainty sip, "Then... do you remember the previous Neptune at all? Did she share these traits and likes?"
[10:36] * Haruka closes her eyes and leans back in her seat with a sigh. "I do remember the previous Neptune," Haruka says, her eyes now open and staring at the wisps of steam wafting from her tea cup. "And the traits you mentioned," she begins, turning her focus back towards Viluy. "Yeah, they're similar."
[10:38] <Sailor_Anastasia> Viluy nods, looking at you. "I... I don't have any memories or anything like that, but I'm worried that I'm changing into someone else..." Her voice is hesitant. "I still like computers and machines, but I also want to start playing an instrument, too."
[10:43] <Haruka> "You'll always be yourself," Haruka tells Viluy, running a finger along the edge of her tea cup idly. "You might have acquired some of Michiru's traits, but you're still Viluy." Haruka gives her what she hopes is a reassuring smile.
[10:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nodding once, the girl takes a much bigger gulp of her tea, finishing it in one gulp. "Yes... yeah, I hope so," she says after a moment more. "I'm also starting to notice other things, too."
[10:51] <Haruka> "Other things?" Haruka prompts, while taking a calming sip of her tea. The thought of Michiru possibly showing herself through Viluy was more than a little... disconcerting.
[10:54] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Like this..." she murmurs. As she does, your cup of tea ripples a bit, as if a slight breeze was blowing over a pond.
[10:58] * Haruka is surprised at first, but is able to study the effect rather calmly there after. "Huh..." she trails off in thought, placing the cup down onto the table. "Water control?" she asks Viluy with a tilt of her head.
[11:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> Viluy nods. "I think so, yes. Professor Tomoe said that it's just starting to awaken and develop, but it will likely become stronger as time goes on."
[11:04] * Haruka returns her nod with one of her own. "I have the same ability, though my affinity is for wind," she tells Viluy with a smile. "So, is that the extent of the changes you've noticed or are you holding back anything?" Haruka smirks.
[11:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Those are the biggest ones," she nods. "I've also worked a bit in senshi form, but it's slow going as well."
[11:12] <Haruka> "If you need any help with anything I'll be around," Haruka offers then adds, "Not sure how much help I can be with the senshi stuff, but as far as music goes, I'm sure I can be of some use."
[11:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I'll take you up on at least one of those offers," she decides. "Maybe a violin, or a piano..."
[12:25] <Haruka> "You're in luck," Haruka replies, giving Viluy a comforting smile. "The piano happens to be my forte. The violin though..." she trails off uncertainly before beginning again. "Don't get me wrong, I can play it, but I'm pretty pedestrian with that particular instrument," Haruka admits sheepishly.
[12:30] <Anastasia> She perks up slightly at that. "That's good, at least. I might take you up on that, Haruka."
[12:35] <Haruka> "Sure, just let me know when you feel like starting that up," Haruka replies. "So, how have you been doing lately?" Haruka asks, trying to strike up some general conversation. "I don't get to talk to you as often as I'd like so I'm just kind of curious. Stop me if I'm prying."
[12:41] <Anastasia> "No, it's no problem," Viluy insists, stopping a moment to get a passing waiter's attention. "Excuse me, but I'd like another cup of tea, and a cinnamon roll." Once she departs, "I've been trying to keep up my work with Professor Tomoe and my computers, but I've been mainly figuring out being Sailor Neptune. It's not as natural or as easy as it appears from our end." She comments so ruefully, smiling a bit.
[12:45] * Haruka nods her head at the general low-down that Viluy discloses before the second half of what she says filters through. She cocks her head, puzzled. "What part of being Neptune is so hard?"
[12:53] <Anastasia> "The 'Neptune Water Attack' part," she frowns a bit. "Your attacks look so natural and easy when you use them, but I'm having problems really letting go when I try."
[12:57] <Haruka> "Letting go as in literally letting the attack go or as in cutting loose to do some damage?" Haruka asks.
[13:02] <Anastasia> "Letting the attack go," she nods once.
[13:06] <Haruka> "The next time we both have some time, do you want to go to the moon and get some practice in?" Haruka asks.
[13:09] <Haruka> "And for any music lessons, I guess we can use the music room at Mugen after school..." Haruka says, thinking aloud. "Er. If you're up for it, of course," Haruka adds.
[13:10] <Anastasia> "It's a deal, then. I'm up for it," Viluy smiles and nods as her food comes.
-------
[11:29] <Sailor_Anastasia> Leaving Mugen and heading home, Herb finds herself relaxing in a way. It's over... the battles are finished again, hopefully. On arrival, your grand entry back to your apartment is marred slightly. A ruffled and annoyed human Nian is yelling and twitching at Lime and Mint, rather annoyed. "I don't bloody care why! This outfit is an one of a kind artifact from thousands of years in the past," he gestures at his strange suit, a nasty bleach stain on it.
[11:31] <Princess_Herb> "Hello boys," says Herb, "Is there a problem here?"
[11:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> "It's just one small stain," Mint protests, turning to Herb. "Master Herb," he blurts, "It was an accident, really!"
[11:33] * Princess_Herb twitches an eyebrow. "How did this accident happen?"
[11:34] <Princess_Herb> "Nian, what have you been doing while I was away?"
[11:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I asked them to dry clean this, but they somehow managed to try and wash it themselves," Nian twitches again, radiating a certain anger about the entire mess.
[11:34] * Princess_Herb inspects the suit.
[11:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> Over the left front is a nasty bleach stain. It's... about the size of a tennis ball, and quite a ruiner.
[11:38] <Princess_Herb> "I'm sorry, but that's quite ruined, Nian." Herb says, sadly. "I'd have to send it off to specialists to try and restore."
[11:39] <Princess_Herb> "What were you two thinking of?" Herb asks Lime and Mint, trying to keep calm, and not ruin her homecoming by blasting her servants into the aether again.
[11:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> "We just wanted to save some pocket money, Master..." Lime says, Mint nodding vigorously. "They have a new doujin out, too! We wanted to get it today!"
[11:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nian sighs at that, holding his forehead. "A... new... doujin, you two? One of those ones you aren't supposed to have?"
[11:45] * Princess_Herb sighs, having expected something like that.
[11:46] <Princess_Herb> "Can't you two learn to be a little more responsible? Do I have to promote my cat to take charge of you two while I'm away?"
[11:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> The two wilt at that, but Lime tries to salvage it. "But... but... Master Herb, Ann called for you yesterday. She wants to see you when you get back."
[11:52] <Princess_Herb> "Did she sound angry?" Herb says, worrying about her long absence.
[11:54] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Not at all, Master! She was just seeing if you'd come home yet," Mint nods, hoping Nian lets the matter drop for now.
[11:56] <Princess_Herb> "All right," says Herb, "I'll try and find one of those specialists in salvaging clothing tomorrow to fix Nian's suit, but now I'm off to have my shower and go and see Ann. I would be very unhappy if there was another emergency tonight, I hope you understand."
[11:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> The two nod quickly at that. "We'll be good and quiet tonight, we promise, master!"
[11:59] * Princess_Herb goes to take her shower.
[12:00] <Prince_Herb> Afterwards, Herb phones Ann to see if she's in before heading round to the elf-girl's house
[12:01] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ring... ring... ring... "Hello," Ann's voice comes over the phone.
[12:02] <Prince_Herb> "Hiya, Ann!" Herb says, "We just got back from saving the world and the boys said you wanted to see me."
[12:02] <Prince_Herb> "I hope there's nothing wrong..."
[12:03] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Hey," Ann says into the phone, warmly. "Oh, I was just checking up to see if you'd gotten back. How are you and the other girls?"
[12:08] <Prince_Herb> "The 'other' girls?" Herb says, a hint of amusement in his voice. "They're fine. I'm pretty good, except I've been pining for the embrace of a certain lovely elf girl. I thought about you all the time."
[12:11] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Good... aw, that's sweet," she smiles, unseen to Herb, as she plays with the phone cord. "Why don't we meet somewhere... Alan and Makoto just dropped by, so I think I'll want to head out."
[12:13] * Prince_Herb chuckles. "Very wise; how about we go to that ice cream parlour by the lake again?"
[12:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Sure. I'll see you down there in, say, an hour?" she replies, thinking a bit.
[12:17] <Prince_Herb> "OK; see you in an hour, my sweet." Herb says.
[12:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[12:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> One hour later.
[12:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> The ice cream shop is fairly busy today, many people coming in for a relief from the heat of July Tokyo. Ann is already at a booth when you arrive, in middling-long red shorts and a white top with a little shawl wrapped around the back of her arms and around her back.
[12:24] * Prince_Herb waves as he enters the ice cream parlour and heads straight for Ann-chan. "Hey, hot stuff," he says, leaning over for a welcome kiss.
[12:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> Smiling a bit after that, "You look like you didn't get hurt," she observes. "So, how was this other world you went to?"
[12:29] <Prince_Herb> "It was a lot like this one, with a slight twist to everything. I didn't exist, for one thing, and you and Alan had hitched up for another. Their Venus was really cool, and so was their Tuxedo Knight." Herb checks around him to ensure that no one's listening to their conversation, and then fills Ann in on the week's adventure
[12:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> She blinks, then gags a bit. "Me and Alan? We're kind of... siblings, you know? We're close, but we haven't been like THAT."
[12:34] <Prince_Herb> "Everything was a little twisted, like I said. Their Usagi and Rei weren't even lesbians, let alone together. It was weird..."
[12:36] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Huh," Ann snorts a bit. "That's kind of strange... Rei and Usagi seem to be inseparable these days."
[12:39] * Prince_Herb notices the waitress coming over and changes the subject swiftly. "So, do you want mint choc chip again, or will you join me for rocky road, Ann-chan?"
[12:39] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I'll have... let's try the peanut butter cup cone," she decides, ordering.
[12:42] * Prince_Herb orders the rocky road cone, and, as the waitress leaves, resumes his tale of the week's events.
[12:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nodding in all the right places, Ann asks you afew more questions. "Usagi's going to keep Chibi Usa now, right?"
[12:44] <Prince_Herb> "She doesn't have anywhere else to go, and Usagi and her mum love her, so it's the best solution." Herb says.
[12:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> Stopping a moment as the ice cream comes back, Ann takes her cone and a good taste before going on. "Makes sense. Still, though... that's terrible, to lose your parents..." Ann smiles sadly at that, being able to relate.
[12:50] <Prince_Herb> "It's worse than that, really. As far as I understand it, she caused her home timeline to collapse herself. She'll need a lot of love and support to deal with that side of things, I think." Herb says. "I think Usagi can handle it, though."
[12:54] <Sailor_Anastasia> Another nod there, as her ice cream cone is wrecked in a hurry. If Ann ever dyed her hair blonde..."Hope so. That poor kid deserves a break if what I heard was true."
[12:56] * Prince_Herb gestures to the waitress for more ice cream for the lovely elf-girl.
[12:56] <Prince_Herb> "So, what's been happening at home?" Herb asks, as he slowly eats his own ice.
[12:59] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Not much... well, except for this one girl at school," Ann nods, having finished her ice cream cone. "She tried to pick a fight with me - thought I was monster or something."
[13:00] <Prince_Herb> "Why did she think that?" Herb asks, "Did she see something she shouldn't have?"
[13:01] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I don't think so..." Ann frowns. "It started when I transfered classes. She asked me to meet her on the roof that day after school, and she challenged me to a fight. Which she lost quite handily, of course."
[13:05] <Prince_Herb> "Of course." Herb says. "Well, it sounds like you have that under control."
[13:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I do, but it gets better. This girl is a big kendo girl, right? Anyway, she comes back a few days later wanting me to teach her magic."
[13:08] * Prince_Herb looks puzzled. "Why did she think you could teach her that?"
[13:09] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Well, I did blast her fairly hard instead of actually fistfighting," Ann admits, shrugging as he finishes her cone off. "She'd already pretty much figured it out somehow, so I didn't bother to hide it."
[13:11] * Prince_Herb laughs a little. "So are you going to teach her magic? Does she have any aptitude, come to that?"
[13:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I didn't think she would," Ann admits, "So I gave her a brush-off. But the next day," Ann shakes her head, surprised. "She'd managed to make a sword out of magical energy or somesuch."
[13:18] <Prince_Herb> "That's pretty good for a day's work," Herb admits. "Maybe the queen would be interested in meeting her, to see if she's a sailor candidate."
[13:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Natsume would sure like that," Ann agrees. "She seems to idolize the Sailors - that's her big reason for wanting to learn, so she can help," Ann deepens her voice slightly, mimicry, "'Those noble champions of justice'."
[13:20] <Prince_Herb> "Hey, we're great kissers too!" Herb protests
[13:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Um..." Ann blinks hard, blushing. "Yeah, I guess so," she manages, having been caught terminally off guard by that comment.
[13:27] <Prince_Herb> "Here, let me demonstrate," Herb says, matching deeds to his words.
[13:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ann blushes, smiling. "Yeah..." she admits.
[13:34] <Prince_Herb> "I'll tell the queen about this girl, and if she's interested, maybe she'll send Makoto to have a word with her." Herb says. "Did she do anything after that?"
[13:36] <Sailor_Anastasia> "She's been trying to help her learn magic, but nothing notable yet," Ann explains, pondering a second cone.
[13:39] <Prince_Herb> Herb nods, and settles down to a relaxing evening of chit-chat, cuddles and ice-cream with the lovely elf-girl
[12:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[12:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> Once you get home, there is SO much to do! Cleaning, cooking, washing... the day seems to just slip by as you eat a late lunch, even that mostly unawares until there is a solid knock on the door.
[12:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Hey, Makoto," Artemis calls, glancing at Ami beside him with a confident smile.
[12:25] * Makoto looks up as she rubs her sleeve against her face, letting it absorb a small amount of sweat on her face, and releasing a breath of air before shouting, "Coming!"
[12:28] * Makoto opens the door and brightens at seeing Ami as well. "Hey, you two! Come right in."
[12:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nodding, "Hey, Makoto," Artemis says as he enters, smiling. "Something smells good."
[12:30] * Ami-chan follows Artemis inside, closing the door as she bites her lip, pushing down on the urge to flee, and moves a little further into the apartment - trying to be at ease and failing miserably.
[12:30] <Makoto> "Thanks, though I'm afraid all I have left are leftovers. I just finished eating a late lunch a while ago," Makoto replies to Artemis, not noticing Ami's nervousness yet.
[12:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> "No big... although, if you have some milk..." he nods, going to the couch while keeping an eye on Ami.
[12:32] * Ami-chan sits down on the other side of the couch, folding her hands in her lap to keep them still.
[12:32] <Makoto> "Sure, Artemis. You want anything, Ami-chan?" Makoto asks as she starts heading to the kitchen.
[12:33] <Ami-chan> "No, thank you." Ami replies with a small smile.
[12:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> "How has it been since you got back, Mako-chan," Artemis ventures forth. "Been catching up around the house?"
[12:37] * Ami-chan smiles slightly at Artemis, grateful for the opportunity to at least -try- and put her thoughts in order.
[12:38] * Makoto smiles as she comes back with some milk for Artemis. "Yeah actually. It got dusty so fast, and I figured I'd do a lot of the other stuff I really didn't get to do in those rushed days before we left," she explains as she takes a seat in the couch opposite Artemis and Ami.
[12:39] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods once. "Yeah... it's nice to be back and catch up, and have some time to think about everything."
[12:40] <Makoto> "So where you and Luna up to anything while we were gone?" Makoto interjects abruptly with a cattish grin.
[12:41] * Ami-chan blinks at that, and turns curiously to look at Artemis.
[12:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> Artemis blushes a bit, shaking his head quickly. "We just spent time with Usagi's mom and getting used to our human forms again, Makoto!" Turning the panic into a smirk, "Pervert."
[12:43] * Ami-chan smothers a giggle, nodding to herself, her unease abating slightly.
[12:43] <Makoto> "Hey, I didn't say anything perverted, I only asked if you guys did anything together," Makoto says defensively. "Right, Ami-chan?"
[12:44] * Ami-chan blushes and glances at the floor in lieu of answering the question. "Uhm."
[12:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> Artemis scowls at Makoto, but lets it past. "What about you, then, Mako-chan? Did you and Alan do anything when you got back yesterday?"
[12:47] * Makoto sticks her tongue out at Artemis, too entertained by their bantering to notice Ami's expressions yet. "We had a nice time together. Take that as you will, you perverted old tomcat."
[12:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> Drawing up and trying not to laugh, he nods. "I will... and I'll get the baby shower ready, Makoto," he fires back, not really paying attention to Ami at the moment, lost in his own banter.
[12:48] * Ami-chan rubs at her face discreetly, wishing her mind would go back to the old, safe thoughts about math.
[12:51] * Makoto pulls back her arms in a scandalized fashion. "What sort of mother would I be if I let a man who shows off his bellybutton run my baby shower?" she gasps exxageratedly.
[12:53] <Sailor_Anastasia> THAT causes Artemis to blush deep red. "This is fashionable! It's trendy and attractive!" The poor Mau sputters. "It's the sort of thing a happening guy wears, not purple shirts," he fires back.
[12:55] <Ami-chan> "Luna seems to like it." Ami agrees quietly, her expression still muted, but smiling a little. "It's probably something we'll understand when we're older."
[12:56] * Makoto giggles. "Does she now?" Makoto asks with a drawl and a grin directed at Artemis, rather than respond to his last comment.
[12:59] <Sailor_Anastasia> Artemis nods. "Luna has fashion sense. Right, Ami?"
[13:00] * Ami-chan blinks at suddenly being included. "Uhm... right?" She guesses, privately wondering,though.
[13:01] <Makoto> "I'd say she's more interested in what's wearing the clothes," Makoto says, probably voicing Ami's thoughts.
[13:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> Smirking but shaking his head. "Anyway... Makoto. Ami. Do you have anything to talk about?"
[13:03] * Makoto blinks. "Oh, is that what you guys came over? Sorry, if I've been keeping you waiting, Ami-chan," she says apologetically.
[13:06] * Ami-chan shakes her head, smiling weakly. "No, it's all right. I was having fun listening." she replies quickly, then settles down a bit, pausing for a long moment. "I needed... need to ask you something." she begins in a roundabout way, her face heating up from sheer nervousness.
[13:07] <Makoto> "Sure, go ahead," Makoto says in a pleasant tone, although she's finally beginning to notice Ami-chan's worried expression.
[13:10] * Makoto blinks, remembering the worry her counterpart had over what happened with Ami. "Aaaaaaah..." Makoto replies, her tone getting a bit more quiet. "Yeah. Yeah I talked with her."
[13:11] * Ami-chan looks at Makoto evenly, even as her heart sinks. "She told you." she says softly, already knowing the answer.
[13:15] * Makoto nods. "Yep," Makoto says, and noticing Ami's down expression, tries to say the first thing that comes to her mind, to distract her from the thoughts are bothering her. "Said you were a good kisser too."
[13:18] * Ami-chan coughs, her face turning shades of red normally associated with traffic signals. "I... wanted to... apologize." she begins uncertainly. "I never meant for you to find out at all, much less that way..."
[13:21] * Makoto makes a waving motion. "Hey, no need to apologize, okay?" Makoto states adamantly. "Heck, I dunno, if I didn't have Alan, I might have been willing to try the same thing my counterpart is, okay? You're pretty, a good friend, and someone I trust with my life. I'm not about to let this hang between us awkwardly. I don't want you to either."
[13:26] * Ami-chan smiles weakly, nodding and relaxing a little. "Thank you, Mako-chan. I really am sorry, though. I feel strange for having..." she pauses, and lets the implication speak for itself. "As though I was being dishonest..." she murmurs, relief pushing her eyes to water slightly, and she scrubs at them with her sleeve.
[13:27] * Makoto quickly gets up and grabs Ami-chan into a hug. "Hey... c'mon, no tears. I'm hardly worth tears, okay?"
[13:30] * Ami-chan giggles brokenly, and returns the hug tentatively. "I don't know about that, Mako-chan." She replied quietly. "But... I'm just relieved you're not upset..."
[13:33] <Makoto> "Of course not," Makoto says brushing her friend's short hair. "Don't worry about it, okay? I'll always be here for you."
[13:36] * Ami-chan nods, smiling a little more peacefully now as she wipes her eyes again, and this time, they stay dry. "Thank you." she says again, heartfelt. "You're a good friend, Mako-chan..."
[13:38] <Makoto> "So are you, Ami-chan. So are you," Makoto says with her own smile, glad that her blue haired friend is feeling better.
[13:41] * Ami-chan smiles slightly, blinking at a sudden thought. "That reminds me, Mako-chan... how is Lita-chan? I've got some improvements developed in my new project that I can try on her." She offers, blushing at her clumsy topic change.
[13:42] <Makoto> "Oh? Lita-chan? She's in my room as always. She only rarely comes out of there," Makoto says.
[13:43] <Makoto> "C'mon, lets go get her," Makoto says as she pulls away from Ami-chan and heads to her room.
[13:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> Artemis smiles a bit at the scene. "Have fun in there, you two," he calls.
[13:45] * Ami-chan nods, following Makoto to her room, a small smile settling on her face as she glances back at Artemis, mouthing a silent 'Thank you' as she leaves the room...

[09:52] <Anastasia> After a day or two of homework and catching up with life, Rei still has a few good days of vacation to enjoy. On a cooler than average Friday as she mans the charm shop, she notices two rabbits approaching the line... Chibi Usa is dressed in a pink shirt and skirt, trailing behind her 'mother', as expected.
[09:53] * Usagi-chan smiles brightly as she comes up the counter. "I need a charm for good luck with love," she says with a giggle.
[09:55] * Rei-chan chuckles as she produces one of said charms. "It's on me," she smiles, handing it over. "How are you two doing today?" she asks, including Chibi Usa in the conversation.
[09:55] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa smiles just a bit to Rei. "Mommy said we'd go visit Rei-chan today," she explains. "And get me a new charm for my room."
[09:56] * Usagi-chan smiles and nods. "Which one did you want, Chibi Usa-chan?"
[09:58] <Anastasia> She thinks a moment, Chibi Usa pointing to one on the wall. A typical charm, asking for health and well-being, is her choice. "That one, Mommy."
[09:59] <Usagi-chan> "All right then... how much?" Usagi asks, digging out her pocketbook. "And don't tell me nothing, I know you can't give them ALL away."
[10:01] <Rei-chan> "It's really not that big a deal, Usagi. The Shrine's been doing great business lately and I only do this for my friends," Rei says, taking down said charm and handing it to Chibi Usa with a smile. "But if you insist, four hundred and fifty yen," she holds out a hand expectantly to the blonde.
[10:02] * Usagi-chan promptly hands over the money without complaint. "It DOES seem a little busier than usual lately, I guess," she says, looking around at the grounds with a few visitors looking around.
[10:05] * Rei-chan nods, leaning forward on the stall. "Some idol singer or other gave us a bunch of free publicity while we were in the other dimension," she explains. "Tellu and Viluy both did such a great job I've actually asked them to keep working here when they can. I'm still amazed Grandpa never scared them off, but I sure won't complain about extra help."
[10:06] * Usagi-chan looks around again, this time noting the vibrant state of the gardens and trees. She giggles a bit. "Now that you mention it, I can tell that Tellu's been here - all the gardens really look fantastic."
[10:08] <Rei-chan> "Yeah. The difference is amazing," Rei nods. "I have to say, coming back to see the place like this really did me a world of good after the state of the Shrine in that other dimension."
[10:08] * Usagi-chan nods. "It's just good to be home, period." She leans back against the counter, looking out at the shrine.
[10:10] <Rei-chan> "How about you, Chibi Usa?" Rei looks down at the young pink-haired girl, "Settling in okay, here?"
[10:11] <Anastasia> "Mommy and Grandmom are being reallly nice to me," she says quietly. "I'll get my own room, too."
[10:12] * Usagi-chan smiles. "We're getting the attic bedroom ready for her... once we fumigate it from having had Eiko in it." She grins at that.
[10:13] <Rei-chan> "Need an exorcism for it?" Rei asks, half-jokingly.
[10:14] <Usagi-chan> "Just maybe," Usagi says with a smirk. "But we should have it all cleaned up and ready for her in a couple more days." She gives her 'daughter' a smile at that. "Not that I mind you sleeping with me, but having your own room is fun - for me too."
[10:16] <Anastasia> A nod. "Mommy... you kick in your sleep," Chibi Usa admits, blushing.
[10:17] <Usagi-chan> "Not on purpose," Usagi says petulantly.
[10:18] * Rei-chan chuckles, but refrains from adding any of her own comments on Usagi's sleeping habits. No need to give Chibi Usa that much information... "So, will you be starting school next week, Chibi Usa-chan?" she deftly changes the subject.
[10:19] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa turns to Rei, shaking her head. "Maybe, Grandmom Ikkuko said it would take awhile," the girl replies. "She said I'll go to Juuban Elementary..."
[10:21] * Usagi-chan nods. "She said that's probably best for right now, although I'd like to talk to the Professor about maybe enrolling her at Mugen when she gets a little older."
[10:22] <Rei-chan> "Yeah," Rei nods, "Speaking of that, have you done all the homework you were assigned over the holidays, Usagi?"
[10:23] * Usagi-chan grumbles. "Yes, even if I only finished my last paper this morning. What kind of a vacation is it where they give you homework, anyway?" she grouses.
[10:25] <Rei-chan> "Heh, worked at it solidly as soon as you got back?" Rei guesses, "I did that, too. I've been having study sessions with Hotaru-chan rather than our usual miko work - the Professor says she's falling behind at school because of it."
[10:29] * Usagi-chan nods glumly. "Yeah, I wanted to get it out of the way so I could enjoy the rest of my vacation. I just hope no one's been working on many ideas for the palace - I STILL have all that paperwork to go through from while we were gone." She makes a face, then smiles. "At least all that stuff is about something I really like though."
[10:32] <Rei-chan> "I don't expect very much real work has been done up there since we left," Rei notes.
[10:33] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "It's not work I'm expecting, it's more suggestions and ideas. I haven't even checked my box at Mugen though, so I don't even know if there's anything to worry about yet - there might not be anything at all."
[10:34] <Rei-chan> "I wouldn't think so," Rei shakes her head, "Most everyone will just be relaxing and enjoying their holidays. Viluy's been kept busy here, and Eudial's apparently been spending a good amount of time with Azurite - and those are the two biggest providers of suggestions."
[10:38] <Usagi-chan> "Hopefully you're right," Usagi agrees, falling silent as she appreciates the relatively cool summer morning.
[10:39] <Anastasia> As you chat with Usagi and Rei, you note two visitors coming up the Shrine steps. Notably, one is a dour man in a black suit, a step ahead of... your father, Dietman Hino.
[10:39] * Rei-chan blinks, rubbing her eyes to check if that really is... "Father?"
[10:40] * Usagi-chan looks over at Rei quickly. "Huh?"
[10:40] <Anastasia> Approaching with a staid, stoic face, "Rei. We should talk, now." he says, ignoring Usagi and Chibi Usa.
[10:41] * Usagi-chan frowns at the man's rude demeanor - although if this really is Rei's father, she's not surprised from what she's heard about him.
[10:42] <Rei-chan> "Ah, of course, Father," Rei hurriedly bows. "Excuse me," she adds to Usagi and Chibi Usa as she steps out of the charms stall. 'I guess I'll talk to you later, Usagi. I've got no idea what this is about, but I doubt it's any good.' "Come inside, Father," she begins leading her father and his companion inside to the sitting room.
[10:43] <Anastasia> "Stop, Rei. We'll talk elsewhere. Come." His commands are brief but carry years of force and expected obidience with them. "You need not change clothes. Come, Rei."
[10:44] * Rei-chan quickly comes to a halt and turns around. "Of course," she replies obediently, moving to follow.
[10:45] * Usagi-chan scowls, wondering what the politician has in mind that's so urgent. 'We'll wait for you here, Rei-chan.'
[10:45] <Rei-chan> 'Okay, I don't know how long I'll be, though,' Rei responds, a little worriedly.
[10:46] <Usagi-chan> 'I don't mind... just let me know if it's anything serious, okay?' Usagi sends back, sounding a touch worried herself.
[10:47] * Rei-chan responds in the affirmative as she follows her father to wherever he's leading her.
[10:47] <Anastasia> Leading you to a waiting black government limo with backseat space, your are ushered in with just your father. Moments later the driver starts the car, the other man getting in at the front seat. A simple button press raises a tinted window paine between the front and back, giving you privacy.
[10:48] * Rei-chan looks at her father expectantly, and with no small amount of trepidation. Not like he ever visits for a mere social call...
[10:48] <Anastasia> "You saw the news two weeks back," he begins without prologue, getting to business.
[10:48] <Rei-chan> "The battle that was caught on film?" Rei nods.
[10:50] <Anastasia> "Yes. Such a public video of such activities has not gone by without notice," he goes on bluntly.
[10:51] <Rei-chan> "No, I can't imagine it would pass by easily," Rei admits, waiting for him to reach the REALLY BAD part that he's obviously leading up to.
[10:53] <Anastasia> "There have been more concerns voiced about the goings-on in Juuban and Tokyo. While I believe that there is no risk of things esclating at the current time, I would like to prepare for certain contingencies."
[10:55] * Rei-chan sighs. "Well, the ones responsible for that attack won't be a threat again," 'So long as we find that black crystal shard before it grows in power...' "But since we'll probably have a new enemy to fight at some point, what sort of contingencies do you have in mind?"
[10:57] <Anastasia> "I would wish to talk with Souichi Tomoe and the rest of the group you've assembled around Mugen School." He goes on without pause, keeping you dead in his eyes. "I would like to hear things from the man that seems to be running much of the activities in this city."
[10:59] <Rei-chan> Deciding it prudent not to tell her father that Usagi is actually the one in charge, Rei nods. "I can set up a meeting with the Professor, yes."
[11:00] <Anastasia> He nods. "We shall contact you tomorrow for a time and place, then."
[11:01] <Rei-chan> "Okay," Rei takes that in. "Was there anything else?"
[11:03] <Anastasia> "That is all." At that, he rolls down the tinted black glass with a press of a button. "Take us back to the Shrine," he instructs, then rolls it up back again.
[11:04] * Rei-chan remains silent, not volunteering anything unless her father actually takes the trouble to ask her.
[11:05] <Anastasia> The ride goes on a little more, the AC in the car working well. A stony, uncomfortable silence settles in, until just before the limo parks. "Are you well, Rei? You were injured on that tape."
[11:06] * Rei-chan smiles at him actually showing any concern over her wellbeing. "I'm quite alright now - it didn't take me long at all to recover from that. I've been in quite a few battles since then that never made the news, but nothing that caused any permanent harm."
[11:07] <Anastasia> "Not a single visible scar," he muses quietly, his eyes distant a moment. "Very well." The limo stops. "You can go now, Rei."
[11:08] <Rei-chan> "I'll see you at the meeting then, Father," Rei steps out of the car and bows to her father before closing the door. Starting up the steps to the Shrine, she releases a long sigh to dissipate the tension caused during that conversation.
[11:10] <Anastasia> Rei is gone for perhaps ten minutes, you and Chibi Usa talking the time away. Even though she shows warmth to you in places, it's still easy to tell this girl has some issues below the surface. Rei comes back up the Shrine steps...
[11:11] * Usagi-chan looks up anxiously as Rei returns.
[11:16] * Rei-chan looks slightly distracted as she approaches the two rabbits. "Well, that wasn't as bad as I expected," she notes with a tiny bit of relief.
[11:16] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit at that. "That's good to know. So... what exactly did he want?" Usagi asks somewhat hesitantly.
[11:18] <Rei-chan> "He mentioned a bit about that battle that was on the news," Rei sighs. "He wants to meet the Professor, who he thinks is our leader. I figure it's probably best to just let him think that, and I have to set up a meeting, now."
[11:19] * Usagi-chan sighs. "That ought to be fun. Why can't he just leave us alone? I mean, it's not like we're doing this stuff just because we feel like it."
[11:21] <Rei-chan> "It's his job," Rei shrugs, "Honestly, I can't blame him. I'd be concerned too if there were superpowered teenagers running around fighting monsters and I had no clue what it all really meant."
[11:23] <Usagi-chan> "I guess," Usagi says with a frown. "I just wish he wouldn't be so rude to you about it like that."
[11:23] * Rei-chan sighs forlornly. "That's how things have always been."
[11:25] <Usagi-chan> "Anyway," Usagi shakes her head. "You want to do anything today? Since we've got some vacation time, I'd like to enjoy it while it lasts," she says with a smile.
[11:27] <Rei-chan> "Hmm..." Rei looks around the Shrine, wondering if it'd be okay for her to go do something else and leave Grandpa in charge here.
[11:28] <Anastasia> It's not too busy, and it's possible one of the other girls would swing by, too. It may pick up around noon if the past few days are of any sign, though. Hotaru also isn't here yet.
[11:36] <Rei-chan> "Things are quiet enough here," Rei shrugs, "I'd probably have to get back around noon to help Hotaru when it picks up, though. You have anything in mind?"
[11:37] <Usagi-chan> "Not really," Usagi admits. "I just finished up with my homework this morning and I thought I'd see if you were busy. I hadn't planned anything."
[11:38] <Anastasia> "Mommy... can we go shopping, then? You and Grandmom Ikkuko said you'd get me some new clothes soon..." Chibi Usa speaks up, hopefully.
[11:38] <Rei-chan> "Well, I have a couple of free hours. If you'll just give me a minute to get changed we can go do that," she nods to Chibi Usa's plan.
[11:39] * Usagi-chan smiles and nods. "We'll wait for you out here then."
[11:40] * Rei-chan nods and goes inside to her room, returning a few moments later in a short-skirted purple and yellow dress.
[11:40] * Usagi-chan grins. "Time to hit the stores, ladies!" she declares triumphantly as the trio makes their way out of the shrine grounds.
[11:43] <Anastasia> Shortly thereafter, three excited girls head out to the mall, clothing stores awaiting...
[11:44] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa shows interest as you enter one, looking at the children's clothes spread about off to one side.
[11:44] * Usagi-chan smiles as she follows the girl into the clothing racks, letting her pick out what she likes for herself.
[11:46] <Anastasia> The girl searches a bit, attracted to a blue summer dress, short simple and cute. Dark blue, its color goes with her pink hair strangely as she looks at it...
[11:47] <Rei-chan> "That one's really cute, Chibi Usa-chan," Rei enthuses as she sees where the girl is looking.
[11:49] <Anastasia> "It's pretty, Rei-chan," Chibi Usa agrees, looking at Usagi for her opinion.
[11:49] * Usagi-chan grins. "I think it'd look really good on you, Chibi Usa-chan. You want to try it on?"
[11:52] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa nods. "Sure, Mommy," she says, looking around for the changing room and taking your hand. Seeing it a ways back, just past the undergarments section, she drags Usagi off with her as best she can.
[11:52] * Rei-chan follows after the pair, smiling indulgently.
[11:54] * Usagi-chan giggles a bit as her adopted daughter hauls her off towards the changing rooms. "Slow down, Chibi Usa - it's not going to run away if you don't try it on this second."
[11:56] <Anastasia> The girl slows, smiling sheepishly. "Sorry, Mommy, but it's so cute," she admits.
[11:56] <Usagi-chan> "It sure is, and I bet you're going to look really cute in it yourself," she says as the two enter the changing area.
[12:01] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa quickly changes into the dress at that, even going into the changing room by herself. She comes out to the waiting section, the blue dress nice on her. Smiling, she twirls around once to give you a view of the blue material on her body.
[12:02] * Usagi-chan smiles broadly. "It's just adorable!" Usagi effuses. "You want to get it?"
[12:02] * Rei-chan cheerfully nods her agreement. "You look really cute in it."
[12:03] <Anastasia> "'kay, Mommy," she grins, looking at herself in a wall mirror. "I look like a lady in it..." she whispers, a strange, sad smile bubbling up before she returns to her changing room.
[12:04] <Rei-chan> Rei's smile slips a bit, thinking of how Chibi Usa lost her real mother and father.
[12:04] * Usagi-chan feels her smile slip a bit at the sad expression on Chibi Usa's face, but she does her best to maintain her happy appearance for the young girl.
[12:07] <Anastasia> Coming out a minute later, dressed back in pink, Chibi Usa hands Usagi the dress. "Thanks, Mommy."
[12:08] <Usagi-chan> "You're very welcome, Chibi Usa-chan," Usagi says, taking the dress over to the counter to be rung up.
[12:10] <Anastasia> The cashier takes the dress as well an offering from Usagi's purse, ringing it up and bagging it. Chibi Usa smiles the entire time, looking at the dress.
[12:10] * Rei-chan can't help but smile herself at Chibi Usa's enthusiasm.
[12:11] <Usagi-chan> "I think you made a very good choice, Chibi Usa-chan," Usagi says with a smile, handing the bag to Chibi Usa to carry.
[12:11] <Anastasia> She takes it, looking it at the dress. "It's cute, Mommy. Can I get some more clothes?"
[12:14] * Usagi-chan checks her pocketbook before answering. "Maybe just one more today - I don't have a whole lot of money left," Usagi says. "We can always come back with Grandma Ikkuko though," she adds.
[12:18] <Anastasia> "Okay," she accepts that, heading back to the clothing racks with you.
[12:19] * Usagi-chan wanders back into the children's department holding Chibi Usa's hand and browsing a bit herself.
[12:21] * Rei-chan follows the duo, paying only passing attention to the various clothes on offer as she lets Chibi Usa decide herself what to get. Unless something really good catches her eye, that is.
[12:22] <Anastasia> Heading into the children's aisle again, nothing really catches Rei's eye. Browsing a bit, Chibi Usa comes out with a pink T-shirt, a black cat and kitten combonation drawn on the front. "How about this," she asks, holding it up.
[12:23] <Usagi-chan> "It's definitely cute... let's see." She holds the shirt up to check the price tag.
[12:23] <Anastasia> It's 3200 yen before tax. A bit pricey...
[12:24] * Usagi-chan grimaces. "A little too expensive for what I have with me though," she says with a frown, putting it back on the rack. "Anything else you like?"
[12:25] <Anastasia> "Aw... I like that one, Mommy," she protests, eyeing it as you hang it back up.
[12:25] <Usagi-chan> "I do too, but I don't have enough money for it," Usagi explains.
[12:26] * Rei-chan keeps quiet, deciding that the former Princess of Crystal Tokyo could do with understanding the value of money.
[12:28] <Anastasia> "But Mooommy," she protests, looking at the nice shirt. "I really like it..."
[12:29] * Usagi-chan sighs. "I know you do, sweetheart, but I can't afford it."
[12:29] <Rei-chan> "Maybe you can get it some other time, Chibi Usa-chan," Rei interjects. "I'm sure it'll still be here next month."
[12:30] <Anastasia> "Next month?!" Chibi Usa frowns deeply, looking at Rei. "It'll be gone by then! I just know it!"
[12:30] <Rei-chan> "Even if it does get sold, they'll restock, Chibi Usa," Rei explains patiently.
[12:31] * Usagi-chan nods. "You'll just have to wait for now, Chibi Usa-chan," Usagi says.
[12:32] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa eye's water a bit. "Okay... Mommy," she sighs, starting to look again without the cheer she had before.
[12:34] * Usagi-chan pats the girl on the head. "Rei's right - it'll probably still be here the next time we come," she says as the three begin to browse through the racks once again.
[12:34] <Rei-chan> "Cheer up, Chibi Usa," Rei encourages her, "You still have that other nice dress Usagi bought for you, and you might find something else you like that she can afford."
[12:34] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa nods sadly, starting through the clothes. She looks for a few minutes, not really finding much she likes.
[12:38] * Usagi-chan looks for a few minutes herself, checking the prices as she goes - although most of what catches her eye appears to be out of her budget at the moment.
[12:40] <Anastasia> As you look, Rei happens to come across a piece she likes: A nice white T-shirt, decorated with an manga character, some ten or so year old girl with twin ponytails and a cute smile.
[12:41] * Rei-chan smiles slightly as she checks the price on said t-shirt.
[12:43] <Anastasia> It's 2400 yen.
[12:44] <Rei-chan> Seeing that it's quite a bit cheaper than the previous offering, Rei takes the t-shirt off the rack. "Hey, Chibi Usa-chan, how about this one?" she suggests, smiling as she holds it up for the little girl's inspection.
[12:45] <Anastasia> Looking over the T-Shirt, the girl smiles a bit. "It's kind of cute, too, Rei-chan."
[12:47] * Rei-chan nods, "I think it'd look good on you, and it's a lot cheaper than the last one."
[12:48] * Usagi-chan smiles, nodding in approval at Rei's selection.
[12:48] <Anastasia> Taking it, "Can I try it on, Mommy?"
[12:49] <Usagi-chan> "You sure can," Usagi says with a smile.
[12:50] <Anastasia> Going back to the changing rooms again, Chibi Usa comes out with just the shirt on - it's a touch long on her, just enough to cover her unmentionables. It's cute as she peeks out, suting her in a way.
[12:52] * Rei-chan nods in satisfaction. "Very cute."
[12:53] <Usagi-chan> "Rei-chan has great taste," Usagi agrees.
[12:55] <Anastasia> With that, she quickly goes back and changes, smiling again as she hands Usagi the shirt. "I like it. Thanks, Rei-chan!"
[12:55] <Rei-chan> "You're very welcome, Chibi Usa-chan," Rei beams.
[12:55] * Usagi-chan checks the price herself, nodding with approval at the lower price tag. "Okay, this one I can afford," she says. "But this will be all for today, for sure."
[12:57] <Anastasia> "Alright," she agrees as you go out, to make another purchase.
[12:57] * Rei-chan checks her watch as Usagi buys the t-shirt.
[12:57] <Anastasia> It's just after 11 AM. 11:04, to be exact.
[12:58] * Usagi-chan returns quickly, combining the contents of the two bags. "Did you want to carry them or should I?" Usagi asks, the bag having gained a bit of weight with the added purchase.
[12:59] <Anastasia> "You can, Mommy," she says, happy enough to foist it off on you.
[13:00] <Usagi-chan> "You're too kind," Usagi says wryly as the three head out for a bit more window shopping.
[13:00] <Rei-chan> "Want to go grab something to eat?" Rei offers, "I'll treat."
[13:00] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa perks up at that some more. "Can we go get some ice cream, Rei-chan?"
[13:00] <Usagi-chan> "Really? That'd be great - I could go for a shake or something right now," the blonde says excitedly.
[13:01] <Rei-chan> "Sure," Rei nods, "We'll stop by the Crown and have some icecream - then I'll have to get back to the Shrine after that."
[13:02] * Usagi-chan snaps her fingers. "Oh yeah, that reminds me! Did I tell you Motoki's getting married?" she says with a grin.
[13:02] <Rei-chan> "What?" Rei looks at Usagi in shock, "Is Reika back?"
[13:03] * Usagi-chan nods, still grinning from ear to ear. "Yeah. Apparently her trip got canceled because of the funds or something, and Motoki proposed to her a few days ago. And the BEST part is they want to know if we'd all like to come to the wedding!"
[13:04] <Rei-chan> "Of course I'll go," Rei nods enthusiastically as they start towards the Crown. "I'll have to congratulate Motoki when I see him."
[13:05] <Usagi-chan> "I know, I couldn't believe it when I heard!" Usagi giggles. "Chibi Usa and I met Naru-chan on our way home the day we got back and we all stopped in for a drink - that's when we all heard about it."
[13:06] * Rei-chan smiles. "That's really great. Have they set a date, yet?"
[13:09] * Usagi-chan pauses for a moment. "You know, I don't remember if they did or not. We'll have to ask when we see him."
[13:11] <Rei-chan> "I wonder if they're going for a traditional or western ceremony..." Rei muses to herself as the trio walk along.
[13:16] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "I really don't know that much about it - just that they're having an engagement party next week, and we're invited to that too. I really should have stopped to ask when it was though," Usagi says with a slight blush.
[13:17] <Rei-chan> "A party?" Rei lights up, "Well, we can get all the details in a minute. They probably haven't made final decisions on everything yet, themselves."
[13:17] * Usagi-chan nods as the two finally arrive at the arcade/cafe. "After you," she says with a grin as she waits for the other two to go in.
[13:18] * Rei-chan enters, looking around for the groom-to-be.
[13:25] <Anastasia> Inside, you find a scruffy man with an unshaven face and tiny sunglasses, wearing the work apron of the Crown. "Hi," he greets the new customers by reflex.
[13:26] <Rei-chan> "Hi, Motoki off today?" Rei guesses as she goes up to the counter.
[13:26] * Usagi-chan joins her girlfriend at the counter, disappointed not to see her 'big brother' working today.
[13:27] <Anastasia> "Yeah, he's off most of the week. He's gettin' hitched." the guy explains, waiting for an order.
[13:28] * Rei-chan nods. "I'd heard. Anyway, I'll have a lemon sorbet," she turns to the other girls, "What about you guys?"
[13:28] * Usagi-chan ponders for a moment. "I'll go with something different today - a banana split for me," she says with a smile.
[13:29] <Anastasia> "I'll have a chocolate ice cream cone," Chibi Usa calls up, struggling up to the seat.
[13:29] * Usagi-chan gives Chibi Usa a bit of help getting onto the stool, seeing the girl's difficulty.
[13:31] <Anastasia> As you do so, he gets your choices together. "Yeah, him and his girlfriend proposed, or somethin'. Real cute girl, too, he got."
[13:32] <Usagi-chan> "Do you have any way to contact him? He'd mentioned having us come to the engagement party next week, but I forgot to ask when it was going to be." Usagi asks.
[13:33] <Anastasia> "His number's in the back," he shrugs as he puts down the lemon sherbet, going to work on the rabbits' food. "I'll grab it for ya when I finish."
[13:34] <Usagi-chan> "Thanks," Usagi says, smiling as she waits for her ice cream.
[13:34] <Anastasia> The ice cream cone comes next, Chibi Usa taking it and promptly getting chocolate all over her face, your banana split coming a minute later.
[13:35] * Rei-chan starts in on her own confection. "I never really had a chance to talk to Reika the times I've seen her. What's she like?" she asks Usagi.
[13:36] * Usagi-chan giggles at the sight of Chibi Usa's face covered in chocolate. "She's really smart and pretty - even though I was mad when I found out Motoki had a girlfriend, she was really nice when I got to meet her." She starts in on her banana split, the cold treat disappearing at an amazing rate.
[13:40] <Rei-chan> "Hmm... if Motoki's off this week with wedding preparations, does that mean they're going to get married soon?" the miko considers.
[13:41] * Usagi-chan shrugs, licking her spoon as she finishes off the last of the banana split. "No idea... maybe they're planning for the party?"
[13:42] <Anastasia> "Here ya go," the man says, handing you a scrap of white paper with a number written on it. "Motoki still works next Tuesday, though... he'll be off Thursday for some big party his familys' havin'."
[13:42] <Rei-chan> "Guess that could be it," Rei nods as she likewise finishes off her sorbet, taking out her purse to pay for the trio's food. "Anyway, I'd probably best be getting back to the Shrine for work myself."
[13:43] * Usagi-chan nods. "We'll go with you - maybe I can hitch a ride with the Professor over to Mugen. I still have to work on that big project with him," she says as she gets off the stool, not wanting to be more specific in front of the guy behind the counter.
[13:44] * Rei-chan nods as she also gets up to leave.
[13:44] <Usagi-chan> "You ready to go, Chibi Usa?" Usagi asks, turning towards her daughter.
[13:45] <Anastasia> Having made a mess of her ice cream, she smiles. "I'm ready," she says, amid a few chocolate stains on her face.
[13:46] * Usagi-chan shakes her head and grins, grabbing a napkin from a dispenser on the counter. "No you're not, you've still got chocolate on your face." She carefully wipes away the last of the stains with the napkin. "Much better."
[13:47] <Anastasia> She nods, licking her lips once as she stands. "Can I come with you to school, Mommy," she asks as you are now standing, interested vaguely in what you're doing.
[13:48] <Usagi-chan> "You can if you want to, but it's not going to be very exciting," Usagi explains as the three head out of the Crown. "You might want to stay with Rei-chan and Hotaru-chan - I bet you'd have a lot more fun with them than you would with me."
[13:48] <Anastasia> "I want to stay with Mommy," she replies firmly, not wavering in voice or resolve.
[13:48] * Rei-chan blinks, then shrugs as Chibi Usa shoots down that idea before she can even say anything.
[13:49] <Usagi-chan> "If you insist," she says simply, smiling a bit.
[09:16] <Anastasia> ---
[09:21] <Anastasia> Going back to the Shrine goes without incident. On arriving, you find Hotaru just coming out in her robes, her father a step behind her and Gramps with them. "... start you on the charms today," Gramps is saying. "Since Rei ran off with Usagi again."
[09:21] <Rei-chan> "I'm back!" Rei protests as she approaches them.
[09:22] * Usagi-chan waves to the pair, a couple of steps behind Rei with Chibi Usa at her side.
[09:23] <Anastasia> "Rei-chan," Hotaru calls, waving and smiling a bit. "Usagi-chan, Chibi Usa-chan! Welcome back!"
[09:24] * Rei-chan smiles back. "I'll be with you in a few minutes, Hotaru-chan - there's something I need to talk about with your father, first."
[09:25] * Usagi-chan smiles at Hotaru. "Thanks, Hotaru-chan - it's really good to be back."
[09:25] <Anastasia> "Okay," she smiles, going off to the charm stand with your Grandfather. To that, Professor Tomoe heads over, looking out of place in the Shrine with his business dress shirt and slacks. "Is something the matter, Rei?"
[09:26] <Rei-chan> "Sort of," Rei frowns a bit. "You remember how back in April I told you my father knew about the activities at Mugen and me being a Sailor Senshi?"
[09:27] <Anastasia> He nods once quickly. "Yes. Dietman Hino, I believe?"
[09:29] <Rei-chan> "That's my father," Rei nods. "Anyway, after the battle we had that was on the news a couple of weeks ago, he's gotten a few concerns. He stopped by this morning and said he wanted to arrange a meeting with you to discuss contingencies."
[09:32] <Anastasia> Tomoe's smile vanishes as he mentally ascesses that, nodding again. "Alright. He wants to talk, does he? Then he can come down to Mugen for it - we'll have the home field at the least. Secondly, do you know when he wants to do it?"
[09:34] <Rei-chan> "He didn't say, just that he'd contact me tomorrow for a time and place. I was figuring we'd do this at Mugen, and Sunday works to get it done before school starts up again," Rei replies.
[09:36] <Anastasia> "Sunday is fine - Sunday evening, 7 PM. I'll assume you'll be coming, Rei?"
[09:38] <Rei-chan> "He actually asked to speak with you and the rest of the group at Mugen," Rei notes. "I'm not sure that it's a good idea to have all the senshi there, though. He knows my identity, but I don't know if he knows anyone else's. Admittedly it wouldn't be hard to figure out from my friends, but still..."
[09:41] <Anastasia> He frowns at that. "That's true. You could appear in Sailor form, but if he already knows, it's moot. Also, the other Witches can't disguise themselves like you can."
[09:43] <Rei-chan> "He already knows of at least Eudial and the Twins - showed me a few pictures from back in our heart-snatching days," Rei considers. "He has been good about keeping a lid on my identity and the other things he knows about our activities, but at the same time I'm hesitant to reveal too much."
[09:46] <Anastasia> "Yes. No need to give him anything extra," he agrees quietly. "Alright. Why don't we discuss this tonight when I come to pick up Hotaru?"
[09:47] * Rei-chan nods. "Okay, I'll go get changed so I can get to work myself. See you later, Professor." With that, she goes inside to get back into her hakama.
[09:49] <Anastasia> "Until then," he nods, turning to the rabbits. "Is Chibi Usa coming with you today, or do you want to drop her off first, Usagi?"
[09:49] <Usagi-chan> "She said she wants to come with us, if that's okay," Usagi replies.
[09:52] <Anastasia> "That's fine," he nods, smiling to Chibi Usa. "Let's go, then."
[09:53] * Usagi-chan nods. "We'll see you later, Rei!" Usagi says, waving as she follows the Professor down the Shrine steps.
[09:54] <Rei-chan> "Bye!" Rei calls out from her room as she gets changed.
[09:57] <Anastasia> ---
[10:08] <Anastasia> The drive to Mugen is uneventful. Professor Tomoe is rather quiet for the entire trip, lost in his own thoughts about Rei's disclosure. Chibi Usa sits in the backseat, quiet as well.
[10:09] * Usagi-chan keeps her hands in her lap, not wanting to disturb the Professor's thoughts.
[10:10] <Anastasia> On arrival, you all head into Mugen and downstairs, down into the laboratories.
[10:11] <Anastasia> Eudial is there already, waiting for you and fine-tuning a few of the machines used in the portal room. For this, a small portal is already open, a tiny gateway between worlds for you to pour the energy in.
[10:11] * Usagi-chan smiles at Eudial as the group enters the labs. "Same thing as usual today?" Usagi asks, stretching a bit.
[10:14] <Anastasia> "Yes. Most of the basic groundwork has been laid... we'll begin the more strenuous work today." Going next to Eudial, "Are the preparations complete?" At her nods, he looks up to you two. "Chibi Usa, come over here."
[10:16] * Usagi-chan nods, frowning a little - the work so far has been pretty strenuous already.
[10:16] <Anastasia> The little girl gives Usagi a quick look before heading over, almost entirely hidden by the machinery when she stops near Professor Tomoe. "Transform when you want to begin, Usagi."
[10:17] * Usagi-chan nods, shifting into the form of Serenity and withdrawing the Grail from its place in storage.
[10:18] <Anastasia> "We'll start slowly. Focus a small line of power through the portal..." he nods, working on his machine.
[10:19] <Serenity> "All right," Serenity agrees, closing her eyes as she begins to bring forth the power of the powerful artifact.
[10:19] <Serenity> roll 2d6
[10:19] * Musk-bot --> "Serenity rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[10:21] <Anastasia> From the Holy Grail comes a thin stream of energy, going into the portal beyond, pulsing with white energy. "Alright... now... we're in position. Slowly expand it and draw more power out from the Grail." OOC - Soul check, +1
[10:22] * Serenity nods very slightly, keeping most of her focus on controlling the power of the Grail.
[10:22] <Serenity> roll 2d6+1
[10:22] * Musk-bot --> "Serenity rolls 2d6+1 and gets 10."
[10:24] <Anastasia> Slowly, you can see the beam expand and glow with power, the dimensional hole expanding slightly to accomodate the increased flow. (20 EP) From behind his station, "Alright, stop the flow for the moment. We'll move it to the next point now - we have to do both at once to reinforce this area."
[10:25] * Serenity does so, taking a short sigh as she lowers the holy cup.
[10:27] <Anastasia> Working a while in the meantime, "This is the larger weak spot of the two, so make sure you use as much energy as you can muster."
[10:27] <Serenity> "I'll do my best," Usagi replies, bracing herself for the drain.
[10:29] <Anastasia> The portal seems to twist a bit as he works, finally settling again in another minute. "We're ready. When you are, Usagi..."
[10:29] <Serenity> "All right, here goes." Serenity concentrates again, letting the power issue forth once again.
[10:29] <Serenity> roll 2d6
[10:29] * Musk-bot --> "Serenity rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[10:31] <Anastasia> Another pefectly pure beam comes from the Grail, snaking into the rift. "Good, Usagi. You're ready to let loose, now."
[10:32] * Serenity grits her teeth as she lets loose the Grail's power to the maximum she can.
[10:32] <Serenity> roll 2d6
[10:32] * Musk-bot --> "Serenity rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[10:35] <Anastasia> The power gushes forth, buckling your knees as the ray of light becomes blinding! The portal lets loose an audible screech as it's pried open to admit such power, Professor Tomoe squinting to read his dials. "Usagi! Stop! That's enough!" (20 EP)
[10:36] * Serenity quickly closes down the flow of power, her legs shaking as she tries to remain on her feet.
[10:38] <Anastasia> "Mommy," Chibi Usa cries, dashing out and to you as you stagger. "Mommy!"
[10:39] <Anastasia> Taking off his glasses to rub his eyes once and grimace, Professor Tomoe looks at Serenity. "You did fine there - in fact, you almost used too much energy."
[10:39] * Serenity shakes her head, righting herself. "I'm okay, Chibi Usa-chan. Stay over there with the Professor for right now, okay?" She gives her daughter a smile. "Sorry about that, Professor."
[10:40] <Anastasia> "It's alright," he nods. "We should stop here for the day - you did more with that second effort than I imagined, and I want to recalibrate the machines now due to that."
[10:40] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa nods, reluctantly heading back.
[10:41] * Serenity nods, putting away the Grail and changing back into her normal identity.
[10:41] <Usagi-chan> "Wasn't as bad today as it's been so far," she says with a slight smile.
[10:42] <Anastasia> "You did better," Eudial agrees. "Professor, I think she shorted out the spatial dials over here. We'll need to fix those tonight."
[10:43] * Usagi-chan grimaces. "I really overdid it, didn't I?"
[10:58] <Anastasia> "A little, yes," Professor Tomoe agrees, stepping out from his precious machines. "You have the right idea, you just let the power of the Grail get away from you to a degree."
[10:59] * Usagi-chan sighs. "Sorry about that... it's a little too easy to let it get away from me sometimes."
[11:05] <Anastasia> Nodding understandingly, "Just don't let it go out of control, Usagi."
[11:06] * Usagi-chan nods. "You need me for anything else today?"
[11:09] <Anastasia> "Not now," he explains. "Unless you wish to talk about what Rei's father wants?"
[11:09] * Usagi-chan sighs at that. "I wish I DID know what he wants. I can't say I trust him very much, not with the way he's treated Rei so far. I wish I could be there when you talk with him."
[11:16] <Anastasia> "You can, if you want. I doubt he'd reconize Sailor Moon if he doesn't already know who you are. If he does know, you might as well come."
[11:17] <Usagi-chan> "Really? You don't mind?" Usagi asks, somewhat surprised.
[11:19] <Anastasia> "No. Rei did say that he wanted to meet the group, as it were, anyway." With that, he glares down at the machine a moment. "I'm considering having the Twins there as well... just in case."
[11:20] * Usagi-chan nods. "I doubt he'd try to cause any trouble with Rei there, but it's probably best to be sure anyway."
[11:23] <Anastasia> "Just in case," he nods again. "Anyway, did you want a ride home? I'm sure I could have Eudial drive you if you like, I need to stay here and get to repairing these."
[11:23] * Usagi-chan doesn't quite flinch. "No, that's all right - we can walk. I'm not too tired today," Usagi says quickly. "I appreciate the offer though."
[11:25] <Anastasia> "Alright. Then if you excuse me..." he nods, getting back to his work.
[11:25] * Usagi-chan nods. "I'll see you tomorrow then, Professor," Usagi says, taking Chibi Usa by the hand as she leads the way out of the lab.
[12:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[12:38] <Sailor_Anastasia> The next week passes by for Natsume. Having bugged Ann, she does seem to try to teach you some magic. Most of it is just telling you to do things - you're getting the feeling she does what she can do just because she can, not out of any study. You aren't manifesting any miraculous powers, or anything special from this, at least so far.
[12:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> That Saturday, on a warm, humid late July day as classes end...
[12:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ann stands, stretching from another day of tedium. "Did you want to go to the roof again today?" she asks as she works out the kinks gathered over past few hours.
[12:43] <Natsume> "I've been curious," Natsume says. "Who is the one who trained you, as you're trying to do for me?"
[12:52] <Sailor_Anastasia> Leading you out of the room before replying, "No one. It's just natural for me," Ann shrugs a bit.
[12:54] <Natsume> "Hm, I see," she replies, expecting, but no less disappointed, to hear that. "No wonder I haven't making any progress. There's nothing really to teach....."
[12:59] <Natsume> "You said it came naturally to you," she continues. "Like the words appear in your mind? Or do you even need words at all?
[13:03] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ann nods. "It's just like being able to do it," she says as you head to the roof access stairs. "I want to fly and I can fly."
[13:04] <Natsume> "I see," Natsume answers, the memory of her first attempt at flying still clinging to the back of her mind.
[13:07] <Natsume> "Well then, if I am not able to learn your powers," she says. "I'll just have to create some of my own."
[13:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> Up the stairs you go as Ann replies again. "Good luck, then. I just was always able to do this - hope it's the same way with you. Falling down twenty stories would hurt."
[13:10] <Natsume> "Hehe," Natsume chuckled nervously. "I believe I'll leave flying to experts like yourself..."
[13:12] <Natsume> "No, the Mugetsu Seijin Ryuu is many hundreds of years old," Natsume explains. "Its techniques have been developed through many generations of successors. If I'm able to apply those techniques with the chi sword, its possible they can be more powerful than by using them with a normal sword."
[13:15] <Natsume> "I am a swordswoman, learning to fly and shoot energy blasts from my palms just doesn't seem to suit me," Natsume admits.
[13:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Guess so," Ann agrees as the Saturday sunlight blinds you for a moment.
[13:22] <Natsume> "But..." she says she manifests her sword. "My goal to become as strong as you are is still the same. If I am one day able to match you, then I know I'll be strong enough to be a senshi."
[13:29] <Sailor_Anastasia> A small smirk there. "Good luck there, you'll need it. If you're so bent on that, why don't we spar a bit?"
[13:29] <Natsume> "That was my intent," she says taking a forward stance.
[13:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> Grinning, "Why don't I get serious, then," With that, Ann changes! Where there was a fuku'ed middle school student before is now a taller woman, with green skin, strange, skintight clothing with golden ornamation that looks vaguely like western style armor, and pointed elf ears. Oh yes, and technicolor hair.
[13:55] * Natsume is caught speechless at the sudden transformation......
[13:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> "You really want to help the Senshi," she asks, amused deeply. "Come on, don't die now! I'm just getting going!"
[13:56] <Natsume> "But, I thought you said you weren't a senshi," Natsume says in shock. "And yet you've just transformed right in front of me! Though admittedly it doesn't resemble the seifuku the other senshi wear......"
[13:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I'm not," she says, getting red. "You think a few school girls are the only ones who could change their apperance?"
[13:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ann lifts off a bit from the roof, perhaps a foot up, effortlessly. "That's nothing at all compared to the better tricks."
[13:59] <Natsume> "Ah, well, I suppose you're right," she responds. "Better tricks?"
[14:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I'll show you..."
[14:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Initiative.
[14:01] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[14:01] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[14:02] <Natsume> roll 1d6+7
[14:02] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 1d6+7 and gets 10."
[14:03] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Ann goes first. I feel for you currently... all this sparring and a low initiative mod. >_>
[14:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> Gathering her speed, Ann rushes in, swiping by as she tries to lay her hands on you!
[14:04] * Natsume steels herself for the attack
[14:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[14:04] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[14:05] <Natsume> roll 2d6
[14:05] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[14:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> Her warm hands skid across your neck a few seconds, a white glow surrounding them. You stagger, feeling drained and tired a few moments...(-30 EP) Standing a bit away and holding the vaguely sphere-like shape in her hands, "Some can just drain the spiritual force right out of you... and not even have to touch you."
[14:09] * Natsume collapses to one knee, suddenly tired and out of breath
[14:09] <Natsume> "W...what did you do to me?!"
[14:10] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I took a portion of your energy," she says with cheer. "It's what keeps you going, humans produce it naturally. It can be used for all sorts of things when it's taken from one." Ann juggles the ball a bit, before walking over offering it to you, palm open. "Take it back, if you want... though you won't be so lucky in a serious fight."
[14:11] * Natsume weakly reaches up and grasps the energy ball. She suddenly feels revitalized at its touch.
[14:14] <Sailor_Anastasia> Energy flows through Natsume's body, her vitality returning. "That's the source of what's called the Juuban sickness - energy drains."
[14:15] <Natsume> "Such a horrible power," Natsume says with a frown. "Why would you want to possess such a thing?"
[14:16] <Sailor_Anastasia> "It has it's uses," she says blandly. "Like when you need energy to survive, and you can't produce your own, or you need it to achieve some goal."
[14:20] <Natsume> "Have...you ever used this power on people?"
[14:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> Smiling still, "Would I do that, Natsume?" she asks innocently.
[14:22] * Natsume narrows her eyes
[14:23] <Natsume> "Is there any way of resisting it?" Natsume asks, moving on.
[14:24] <Sailor_Anastasia> "The best you can do is to avoid being touched or imprisoned by monsters or their masters. As far as I know, it requires some sort of touch or interaction to work, usually," Ann goes on, then backs away a few steps. "Just going to talk all through the spar, though?"
[14:26] <Natsume> "Hmph, very well then," she says. "I'll just have to make doubly sure you never touch me again!"
[14:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Come on, then!" she gestures, getting ready again!
[14:26] <Natsume> roll 1d6+7
[14:26] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 1d6+7 and gets 9."
[14:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[14:26] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[14:27] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Let's see how you dodge...THIS!" Ann calls, throwing a perfectly invisible sphere of force at Natsume!
[14:27] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[14:27] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[14:28] <Natsume> roll 2d6
[14:28] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[14:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> Moving your sword swiftly, Natsume manages to sense and deflect the sphere away, a huge gust of wind force exploding over head moments later!
[14:30] * Natsume charges forward to close the gap between them. She raises her sword high and comes down with a strong overhead slash
[14:30] <Natsume> roll 2d6
[14:30] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[14:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> The sword slash is powerful, yet too slow and ungainly to be a serious threat to Ann!
[14:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[14:31] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[14:33] <Natsume> roll 1d6+7
[14:33] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 1d6+7 and gets 10."
[14:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> Again repeating the attack, Ann grins and laughs a bit. "Let's see you try that again, Natsume!"
[14:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[14:34] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[14:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> The sphere this time whizzes by you, causing a burst of concussive force well away from you and leaving you safe!
[14:35] <Natsume> "I'll try it as many times as it takes!"
[14:36] * Natsume comes in again with a sweeping slash to Ann's ribs
[14:36] <Natsume> roll 2d6
[14:36] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[14:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> Perhaps thrown off by the force emitted behind you, your swipe narrowly missed Ann as you step forward a bit too hastily!
[14:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[14:37] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[14:39] <Natsume> roll 1d6+7
[14:39] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 1d6+7 and gets 11."
[14:39] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Third time is a charm," Ann comments cheerfully, rising up a bit more and flinging another burst of power! "This time, you don't dodge."
[14:39] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[14:39] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[14:40] <Natsume> roll 2d6
[14:40] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[14:40] <Sailor_Anastasia> The ball slams into your stomach and ribs, the force sending you flying across the roof! You feel your back hit something hard as your body is rocked to the marrow of your bones by the strike! (60 damage, and a Body check at +3)
[14:42] <Natsume> roll 2d6+3
[14:42] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6+3 and gets 14."
[14:43] <Sailor_Anastasia> That feeling is the last thing Natsume feels for a good while, her world brought to black in an instant of pain.
[14:43] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[14:45] <Usagi-chan> Consciousness returns to Natsume slowly, the girl finding herself in an unfamiliar bedroom.
[14:45] * Natsume groans pitifully...
[14:47] * Usagi-chan looks around at the sound of the groan, having been working at her desk while she waited for the injured schoolgirl to revive. "You awake now?" she asks, getting up to come over to the bed.
[14:48] <Natsume> "Where... am I," Natsume says weakly.
[14:49] <Usagi-chan> "At my house," Usagi explains not too helpfully. She frowns a bit. "You were in pretty bad shape when Ann brought you over here."
[14:50] * Natsume tries to sit up slowly, but a sharp pain in her sides stops that.
[14:51] <Natsume> "Ann... brought me here?" she repeats. "Who... are you?"
[14:51] * Usagi-chan frowns. "Does it still hurt?" she asks, noting Natsume's wince. "Show me where."
[14:54] <Natsume> "Its nothing I can't handle," Natsume says, putting on a tough front. "Just a bruised rib or two, nothing major. Ow..."
[14:55] * Usagi-chan shakes her head, placing one hand on Natsume's side and chanting quietly. A soft glow surrounds her hand a few moments later, and the pain fades almost entirely. "Better?" she asks.
[14:58] * Natsume sits up, blinking in surprise. "Yes... how did do you that?"
[14:59] * Usagi-chan sighs. "Magic," she says simply. "Don't ask me to explain it a lot further than that."
[15:02] <Natsume> "Magic?" Natsume repeats. "So Ann isn't the only one."
[15:03] * Usagi-chan snorts at that. "No, hardly the only one." She gives the swordswoman a rather penetrating look, her eyes almost seeming to look through the girl on the bed.
[15:03] <Natsume> "It seems the more I learn, the more I run across people who can use it...."
[15:04] * Natsume grows apprehensive at the gaze.
[15:05] <Usagi-chan> "You know people besides Ann that can use magic?" Usagi asks after a moment, curious now.
[15:06] <Natsume> "Well, I don't know who he is, but I once saw Ann sitting with another boy," she explains. "He seemed to have powers similar to her, by what little I saw."
[15:06] <Natsume> "And there's my grandfather, who taught how to tap my own power."
[15:08] * Usagi-chan nods. "That was probably her brother Alan. But who's your grandfather?"
[15:11] <Natsume> "Grandmaster Kusanagi Tsukijirou," she answers. "Our dojo is near the edge of town."
[15:11] <Natsume> "I doubt he would be pleased to see me like this," she says, hanging her head in shame.
[15:12] * Usagi-chan sighs. "What exactly were you two doing? Ann wouldn't tell me anything, just dumped you here and said you needed help," Usagi says with a scowl.
[15:13] <Natsume> "Training," she answers simply. "I wish to become as strong as Ann in the use of my power. My goal is to one day fight along side the Sailor Senshi."
[15:14] <Natsume> "Though that might seem very farfetched at the rate I'm growing..."
[15:14] * Usagi-chan sits back on the floor and sighs at that, passing her hand over her face. "Mind if I ask why?" she finally says a few moments later, giving Natsume a more critical look.
[15:17] <Natsume> "They've always been my idols. Only they would be willing to risk themselves to stop the evils of this world," Natsume says. "As a swordswoman, it is my duty to protect the frail and weak. That is why I wish to become a senshi like them one day."
[15:19] * Usagi-chan leans back on her elbows, still watching Natsume. "Ann, just what did you drop in my lap?" she mutters, barely on the edge of Natsume's hearing. Shaking her head slightly, she speaks up again. "Why do you think they do it?"
[15:24] <Natsume> "They must have a strong sense of justice," Natsume tries to answer. "They must feel that protecting those who can't protect themselves is the right thing to do."
[15:25] <Usagi-chan> "Have you ever seen any of them?" Usagi asks quietly.
[15:26] <Natsume> "Not up close, no," she says. "The only time I've ever laid eyes on them is through what little is shown on the news."
[15:27] * Usagi-chan nods at that, considering. "You saw the big news report on them... what, close to two weeks ago now?" she asks.
[15:30] <Natsume> "Hm, yes I remember," she answers. "I remember Sailor Jupiter being struck by a strong youma..."
[15:31] * Usagi-chan nods. "She was hurt pretty bad. You'd actually want to take the risk of that happening to you?"
[15:35] <Natsume> "There will always be risk fighting against demons like those," she admits. "But ever since I started learning the way of the sword, I've been taught that nothing comes without trial. Whether it's gaining strength, or bringing peace and justice to the world."
[15:36] * Usagi-chan crosses her legs, resting her elbows on her knees as she looks at the swordswoman on the bed. "How are you feeling now?" she asks in another abrupt subject change.
[15:39] <Natsume> "I feel... fine," Natsume answers with surprise. She had totally forgotten about the pain over the course of the conversation. "Whatever magic you used worked wonders."
[15:40] * Usagi-chan smiles slightly. "Good, glad to hear it. Just wanted to make sure, although you look like you're okay - I did miss that cracked rib before."
[15:43] <Natsume> "Thank for your help... errr..." she trails off. "I... never did catch your name. Mine is Natsume. Kusanagi Natsume."
[15:45] * Usagi-chan smiles. "Usagi Tsukino - and it's no problem, although I'm going to have to talk to Ann about this 'training' of yours. What exactly were you doing?"
[15:47] <Natsume> "Ann is the one who first introduced me to magic," she explains. "Since then I have been attempting to learn from her, but her style of magic seems incompatible for me. I was hoping that by fighting with her, I would grow stronger myself."
[15:48] <Natsume> "Hmmmm... Tsukino Usagi..." Natsume whispers. "That name sounds familiar..."
[15:48] * Usagi-chan flinches slightly at the whisper, but her face grows stern. "You were FIGHTING with her? Is that how you ended up like this?"
[15:50] <Natsume> "Well... yes," she admits. "I've fought her before, but this time was different. She time she transformed herself..."
[15:50] <Natsume> "When she said she wasn't going to hold back, she meant it..."
[15:52] * Usagi-chan groans. "No wonder you were such a wreck when she got you here," she says with a scowl. "Sounds like I'm going to have to have a little talk with Miss Grainger the next time I see her."
[15:54] <Natsume> "Oh! No, its not her fault!" Natsume exclaims. "I challenged her, and besides, I can't grow stronger if I don't fight strong opponents. I'm actually glad Ann was willing to fight me seriously."
[15:54] <Usagi-chan> "She knows better though," Usagi says with a frown. "You might not have known what you were getting into, but she's easily capable of killing you if she's not careful. And this time she wasn't too careful."
[15:57] <Natsume> "I guess," she says. "There was this other power she showed me before we started. Something about absorbing energy. If I could create a better defense against that..."
[15:59] * Usagi-chan rubs her temples at that. "Draining too, huh?" she says. "What did she do with the energy?"
[16:00] <Natsume> "Well, nothing really, she gave it back to me," she answers. "She warned me that there are creatures out there who could that, and to watch out for it. She said it was the cause for the Juuban sickness."
[16:01] <Usagi-chan> "She's right, and there's not a lot you can do to defend against it. Strength of will is just about the only thing that works for that, and not always even then." Usagi nods to Natsume's second comment. "It is."
[16:03] <Natsume> "You seem to know as much as Ann, and you have powers like her," Natsume notices. "Are you related to the senshi at all?"
[16:04] * Usagi-chan sighs, taking a moment before answering. "I know them, yes." she finally says.
[16:08] <Natsume> "Oh, I see," Natsume replies. "I only thought the senshi were amazing, but now there's Ann, my grandfather, and now you. I grow more amazed everyday!"
[16:09] * Usagi-chan shakes her head a bit. "Anyway, I'd advise against fighting with Ann. It's not going to do much for you but get you hurt - no offense, but you're nowhere near strong enough to go toe-to-toe with her like that. And she's not always careful with her own power."
[16:12] <Natsume> "I see..." she says quietly. "Well... I admit I haven't had much success in battle ever since I acquired my power..."
[16:12] <Usagi-chan> "You've learned to use some of your power?" Usagi asks, raising an eyebrow.
[16:12] * Natsume sighs. "Yes...my grandfather taught me to harness my power to create a sword," she answers. "But I still have much more to learn it seems..."
[16:14] <Usagi-chan> "You mind showing me?" Usagi asks.
[16:15] <Natsume> "Ah, of course..."
[16:17] * Natsume gets out of the bed and stretches a bit before taking her usual stance. For a moment, she appears to be grasping empty air before the chi sword flashes to life in her waiting hands.
[16:18] * Usagi-chan watches without apparent surprise as the glowing sword appears in Natsume's hands. Once again, she appears to be more looking through Natsume than at her, particularly paying attention to her arms and hands this time. "Not bad... better than I expected," she says after a moment.
[16:24] <Natsume> "Grandfather showed me how to mold my chi into it," she explains. "His sword is much stronger than mine."
[16:25] * Usagi-chan nods. "How long have you been able to do that?" she asks in a conversational tone. "I'd guess not very long."
[16:27] <Natsume> "Yes, I only learned how recently."
[16:28] <Usagi-chan> "I can tell," Usagi agrees. "Still looks pretty rough, to be honest. That'll get better with practice though."
[16:31] <Natsume> "I hope so..."
[16:32] * Usagi-chan gives Natsume another slow look. "Anything else I can help you with?" she asks.
[16:34] <Natsume> "That spell you used to heal my injuries, could you possibly show me how to do it?" Natsume asks. "Or is it more of a power like Ann's?"
[16:36] <Usagi-chan> "I doubt it," Usagi replies. "Even people I know who have a good amount of skill with magic can't do that - at least not the same way I do it. Some magic can be learned, and some of the principles apply to all forms of magic, but not there are all sorts of different ways of doing it - everything from raw use of energy like your ki sword or Ann's attacks to more structured spells like what I used to heal you with."
[16:39] <Natsume> "Ahhh, Ann never told me anything like that. How long have you been using magic?"
[16:40] <Usagi-chan> "A little over a year now," Usagi replies. "I'm more or less self-taught on what I know, but I've been learning a little more about theory recently."
[16:43] <Natsume> "I want to be able to control my power like that," she says with determination. "What do I have to do to grow powers like yours?"
[16:43] <Natsume> "You said there were principles that apply to everything?"
[16:45] <Usagi-chan> "A few, yes - most of that applies to structured magic though, like spells. Some of it will help with everything - like learning to focus your power better." Usagi smiles a bit.
[16:48] <Natsume> "Really?!" she says, growing more excited by the second. "Could you teach me?"
[16:49] * Usagi-chan thinks for a moment, a small smile playing around her features. "I might be able to teach you how to focus and control your energy a little better - if you don't mind sharing the time with someone else. There's someone else I know who needs a few pointers on that, too - I was planning on teaching her a bit about that soon anyway."
[16:50] <Natsume> "Thats fine with me," she says. "I don't have a problem learning with someone else."
[16:51] * U

[09:56] <Anastasia> AS news of the desired meeting spreads throughout the circle of the Senshi, most agree to come. With the exception of Makoto, who chooses a date over it, all are interested. From Professor Tomoe, you hear that Viluy wishes to be there as well, since it concerns her as Sailor Neptune.
[09:57] <Anastasia> Haruka also has to beg off - partially a lack of interest, but partially another obligation.
[09:58] <Anastasia> The Twins will also be there, bringing the body count to seven, not counting Professor Tomoe and Dietman Hino.
[09:58] <Anastasia> After talking to him that evening, Rei finds out that he'll pick her up and drive her to Mugen, and from there she'll take him in. He doesn't sound happy about the meeting ground, but he allows it to pass without argument.
[10:01] <Anastasia> That evening, a half hour before the meeting, like clockwork, a black-suited bodyguard ascends to the Shrine, looking for Rei. His face is hidden with sunglasses and a dour expression. Finding Rei waiting, "Your father is waiting below, Miss Hino."
[10:02] * Rei-chan nods to the man and proceeds down the stairs to meet her father.
[10:03] <Anastasia> Leading you down to street level, you see a four door car waiting below, of Japanese make and a dark blue/black. Nothing special as the man goes ahead, opening the back door to admit you. You can just see your father's head in the passenger seat from this angle, his starting to grey hair distinctive.
[10:03] * Rei-chan enters the car and sits. "Good evening, Father."
[10:07] <Anastasia> "Good evening, Rei," he says shortly, sparing a glance as you get in. His face is composed and calm, no outer emotions past his facade. As the escorting bodyguard goes around and gets in the driver's seat, "To the Infinity School," he instructs bluntly.
[10:07] <Rei-chan> By dint of habit, Rei keeps quiet unless her father speaks to her on the ride over.
[10:08] <Anastasia> He's quiet at first, but to your surprise, he soon breaks that. "You know Souichi Tomoe well, Rei? He is said to be a philanthropist and a world-class scientist."
[10:09] * Rei-chan looks up. "I'd say I know him fairly well. We do talk quite often, and his daughter works at the Shrine with me," she supplies.
[10:10] <Anastasia> "Hotaru Tomoe," he says, not a question but an affirmation. "He seems to care for his daughter deeply."
[10:11] <Rei-chan> "Yes," Rei smiles a tad distantly. "He's a very devoted father." She hopes she managed to keep any trace of accusation from her tone there...
[10:15] <Anastasia> He nods very slightly as his gaze seems to be on the road ahead. The rest of the ride goes without conversation, Mugen appearing shortly enough thereafter. The school is mostly dark now at this late hour as you get out, the bodyguard not coming with you. Your father's black suit is sharp today, notably. "Then," he nods at you, looking at the school ahead.
[10:15] <Rei-chan> "Here we are," Rei nods back, leading her father inside.
[10:16] <Anastasia> He follows your lead, up to the elevator. He shows no outward emotion, only a vaporous yet firm cool.
[10:18] <Rei-chan> Entering the elevator with her father, Rei pushes the button for the fifth floor.
[10:19] <Anastasia> As you go up, "How many of the other Senshi and the other girls will be here, Rei?" he probes rather coldly.
[10:20] <Rei-chan> "I'm not entirely sure," Rei admits. "I know Sailor Moon and the Twins will definitely be there. As to the rest, I'm not sure who all decided to come."
[10:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Mm." is his simple reply as the elevator opens to the fifth floor.
[10:22] <Rei-chan> Stepping out of the elevator, Rei leads her father to the conference room arranged as the meeting place.
[10:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> Inside the large room's table, Professor Tomoe is seated at the head, with Cyprine, Ptilol and Sailor Neptune on his right hand, and Sailor Moon, Mercury and Dragon on his left. All sitting, it looks to have been arraigned so that Dietman Hino will sit at the opposite end. "Welcome to the Infinity school, Dietman," Tomoe intones calmly himself, hands folded on the table and outwardly composed. "Please, seat yourself."
[10:25] * Sailor_Moon has a carefully neutral expression on her normally cheery features, keeping her eyes on the politician as he enters the room.
[10:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> Cyprine and Ptilol are quiet as well, simply eyeing the man silently, Sailor Neptune sharing the sentiment.
[10:26] * Rei-chan is a bit surprised at Ami's presence, given her recent tendancy towards not being around much, but given that Makoto isn't at this particular meeting, perhaps it is understandable... Noting Herb, she thins her lips but remains quiet. 'He better not screw this up,' she thinks, knowing of the crossdresser's tendency towards nasty faux-pas.
[10:26] <Rei-chan> She takes a seat next to her father's, not entirely happy with the confrontational arrangement of the room.
[10:26] * Sailor_Mercury watches the proceedings somberly, her curiousity carefully restrained, but visible in her eyes.
[10:27] <Sailor_Moon> 'I told him to keep it to a minimum before you got here,' Usagi replies, not moving a muscle as she watches Hino take his seat.
[10:27] <Sailor_Anastasia> He does so, posture strong and commanding as he sits. "We have much to discuss, Tomoe," he begins.
[10:29] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Indeed," Professor Tomoe nods slightly. "For you to insist on such a meeting, Dietman, you must have something pressing on your mind."
[10:30] * Sailor_Moon leans back in her chair, crossing her arms as she listens.
[10:31] * Rei-chan frowns at the body language being displayed, and not liking what it fortells for the results of this meeting...
[10:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yes. To the point," he goes on, glancing about at the assembled magical girls about, "You've assimilated both the Sailor Senshi and several other magically talented women into your group. As it stands, you are perhaps the most powerful man in Tokyo." Stopping a moment to study Tomoe with an intent gaze before going on, "Our government has concerns about your organization."
[10:34] <Sailor_Moon> "The senshi are not under the Professor's control," Usagi says calmly. "We consider him a close friend and an ally, that's all."
[10:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> "That is correct, Sailor Moon," Professor Tomoe nods once to the girl. "We are merely friends and allies, nothing more sinister than that."
[10:37] * Rei-chan keeps quiet, silently agreeing to the point but not adding anything right now.
[10:37] * Sailor_Mercury simply nods, not elaborating.
[10:38] <Sailor_Anastasia> Viluy follows the lead of Mercury, nodding once.
[10:39] * Sailor_Dragon maintains a Pluto-like expression of bland inscrutability.
[10:40] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Regardless of how you wish to classify it," he goes on, "There are worries. With the Senshi having more destructive battles and the fact that Mugen was implicated in some of the attacks in the past year, many are deeply troubled by your hegemony."
[10:42] <Rei-chan> "By working together we've been able to keep the damage far lower than it would have been," Rei chimes in. 'Well... except the time Eudial used her flamethrower for 'crowd control'...'
[10:42] * Sailor_Moon relaxes slightly - to Rei in particular, her posture changes slightly, as does the tone of her voice. "The destructive nature of our battles is generally not something within our control, Dietman," she says. "We do what we must to contain the threats that appear."
[10:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yet with these actions, more and more are worried that you are the threat," he nods once, slightly grim. "That the Sailor Senshi and Mugen are just as much a problem to be eradicated than as anything good or useful."
[10:46] <Sailor_Moon> "And what gives you that impression?" Usagi asks levelly. "What actions have we taken that have indicated any sort of threat to the people of Tokyo?"
[10:46] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Nonsense," Professor Tomoe speaks up calmly. "Have you one case of the Sailor Senshi or our group doing anything but reacting to other threats in the past months? Of us causing the feared Juuban illness, or otherwise harming the populace?"
[10:47] * Rei-chan frowns. "I'd think our actions so far speak for our good intent. What more can we do to prove we're not a threat?"
[10:48] * Sailor_Mercury nods. "And as for the public distrust, that sort of sentiment is hardly uncommon." Ami observes quietly. "There are police forces all over the world that would report similar public opinion."
[10:50] <Sailor_Anastasia> "As long as the Sailors appear, there will be worries," he says to Rei. "As long as the Juuban sickness continues to strike, there will be those who are restless."
[10:51] * Sailor_Moon shrugs. "For the most part, the public themselves support what we do. We move as quickly as we can to put a stop to the threats that show up in this area - admittedly we can't take care of them all before they occur, but we do what we can."
[10:52] <Rei-chan> "Well, as you told me before, the government is powerless against the kind of monsters we fight. What would happen if we weren't around to deal with them?" Rei asks.
[11:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> "We would cope," he says, brushing past it. "In the committee we have dealing with this matter, unrest with the Sailors over the past incidents and Mugen has been rising."
[11:02] <Sailor_Moon> "You'd cope?" Usagi says with a snort. "I think I know what would happen if the senshi weren't here to take care of the kind of threats we deal with," she says. 'I just saw it first hand', she thinks. "I don't think you'd cope nearly as well as you think."
[11:02] * Rei-chan nods her assent with Usagi.
[11:03] <Sailor_Mercury> "Do you have a solution to the problem you present?" Ami interjects curiously. "Or is there a compromise that can be reached?"
[11:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods once. "We've spent a few weeks discussing this to come to a conclusion. In short," he looks at Rei, then the other girls and Professor Tomoe, "We want the identities and information about the Sailor Senshi. If trustworthy in return, we will promise not to interfere any further with your lives or affairs past this committee."
[11:05] <Sailor_Mercury> "..." Ami blinks twice, taken aback.
[11:05] * Sailor_Moon narrows her eyes, not answering immediately. To Ami and Rei both she sends the thought: 'I don't like it. I know he already has Rei's identity, but there's no reason for him to know who the rest of us are.'
[11:06] * Rei-chan furrows her brow. "While you have been trustworthy with my identity, Father, didn't you say there were those on the committee who advocated... dissecting us, to find out how we work?"
[11:07] <Sailor_Anastasia> "There have been, yes," he agrees tightly, face compacting inward ever so little. "However, that faction has lost support despite these occurences to more extreme stands."
[11:07] <Sailor_Mercury> 'I agree. This would put us completely at their mercy.' Ami replies. 'This would be the time to negotiate... hopefully he's not expecting we'll just give him what he wants.'
[11:08] <Rei-chan> "But what's to stop them taking independent action, or the information leaking out?" Rei presses.
[11:11] <Sailor_Anastasia> "The same matter that has stayed my own hand, Rei. If word leaks out the government knew about this but took no action, it would be the end of all associated with it."
[11:11] <Sailor_Moon> Usagi leans back in her chair, frowning. "Exactly what sort of 'information' about the senshi do you want?" she says levelly. "And what do you intend to do if you decide we're not 'trustworthy'?" she asks pointedly.
[11:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Names, identities, and so forth... as well as more information on yourselves. There is very little know about who you are and how and why you do what you do," he nods. "If you are not trustworthy..." His composure breaks slightly as he glances at Rei. "Steps will be taken."
[11:15] <Sailor_Moon> "Then the answer is no," Usagi says flatly and without hesitation.
[11:17] * Rei-chan flinches, 'What are we going to do then, Usagi? If you want to make enemies of the government we can't stay in Japan.'
[11:18] <Sailor_Moon> 'I'm not taking the risk of them 'deciding' we're not trustworthy at some point and then 'taking steps', especially if they know our identities.' Usagi sends back. 'I won't put any of you at risk like that - it's not worth it.'
[11:19] <Rei-chan> 'I'm already at risk - and so is everyone at Mugen. How hard do you think it'd really be for them to figure out everyone else's identities knowing what they already know?'
[11:20] * Sailor_Mercury watches the Dietman, trying to read his expression to see if he'd expected this, or looks suprised at the reaction.
[11:20] <Sailor_Anastasia> Professor Tomoe nods. "I'm sorry, Dietman," he says simply. "But the matter is decided, then."
[11:20] <Sailor_Moon> 'Hard enough that apparently they think they need to ask us,' Usagi replies. 'And I know you're at risk - I think your dad is probably trying to protect you as much as he can. But I don't think for a second that he'd do anything to help any of the rest of us.'
[11:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> His face stiffens slightly. "If you won't, then I hope my hold on the council stays firm."
[11:22] <Rei-chan> 'How do you know they don't know?' Rei presses, 'This could be a test to confirm what they know and see if we're being honest.'
[11:23] <Sailor_Moon> "I hope so as well. But I will not put my friends' lives at the whim of your council. I'm sorry." Usagi replies, her features softening somewhat.
[11:23] <Rei-chan> "I'm sorry, Father," Rei hangs her head. "But if that's the decision then I can't do anything."
[11:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> He turns to Usagi, face neutral again. "Are you certain, Usagi?" he says quietly, his words carrying the weight of the information within.
[11:25] * Rei-chan jolts and looks between her father and Usagi rapidly at that confirmation of what she thought.
[11:25] * Sailor_Mercury flinches, her eyes narrowing.
[11:26] * Sailor_Moon narrows her eyes, her face tightening. "I'm certain, Hino-san."
[11:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> The Twins eye the Dietman, hands joining under the table... just in case.
[11:27] * Rei-chan looks at Usagi sadly. 'So what now? Are we going to go live on the Moon?'
[11:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> He rises simply then, without comment until he stands. "Come, Rei. I hope sincerely that my fellow councilmen do not manage to discover this information as well, for your sake, Sailor Moon."
[11:28] <Rei-chan> Looking terribly unhappy, Rei stands without a word.
[11:28] <Sailor_Moon> 'We stay on guard,' Usagi replies, her eyes not leaving the politician as he stands. 'If that's what we have to do after the Black Crystal is dealt with, we will.'
[11:29] * Sailor_Mercury looks over at Usagi, her expression serious. 'Usagi... this is serious... we need to start making contingency plans... for our families. Just in case.' she thinks, paling.
[11:30] <Rei-chan> 'As the Queen says,' Rei thinks back in a defeated tone, going to open the door for her father, her steps leaden.
[11:31] <Sailor_Moon> 'I'm sorry, Rei-chan,' Usagi thinks, deflating considerably as the politician and his daughter depart. 'But I have to do what I think is best based on what I know.'
[11:32] * Rei-chan doesn't reply, her thoughts in turmoil as she leaves.
[11:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> Once left, Professor Tomoe exhails tiredly, taking off his glasses and rubbing the bridge of his nose. "Wonderful news."
[11:34] * Sailor_Moon slumps in her chair, closing her eyes. "I'm sorry... I should have had us discuss it first," she says, lowering her head.
[11:35] <Sailor_Dragon> "We Musk are used to hiding from unfavourable governments," says Herb.
[11:35] * Sailor_Mercury shakes her head, resting her hand on Usagi's arm. "We would have come to this conclusion at any rate." she observes. "It was the right thing, though hard."
[11:37] <Sailor_Moon> "I just... I couldn't stand the thought of some stupid politicians somewhere just 'deciding' we can't be trusted and taking steps to deal with us." She shakes her head. "I don't know what they would have done, but he didn't make it sound pretty."
[11:39] * Sailor_Mercury nods. "It was my thought as well. We can't blindly hand the keys to our lives over to people we don't know." she muses. "Perhaps if he seemed willing to compromise, we could have tried something less extreme, but as it stands, I don't see how you could have done anything else."
[11:40] * Sailor_Moon sighs, looking over at the Professor. "What do you think?" she asks, hoping for some input from someone more experienced at dealing with such matters.
[11:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> Professor Tomoe is silent a few more moments before speaking again. "I want to talk to Rei again tomorrow, as soon as possible. But as it stands now? We'll either have to deal with them at least partially, find a way to stop them completely, or flee."
[11:43] * Sailor_Moon sighs, suddenly looking a good deal older than her fifteen years. "I really messed this one up good, didn't I?"
[11:45] * Sailor_Mercury frowns. "Usagi... this really isn't the time to second-guess yourself. You made the best decision you could." she reproves gently. "We believe in you."
[11:45] <Sailor_Dragon> "No," says Herb, "you did well. There are some things we can't compromise on."
[11:46] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I don't think it's irreparable yet," Tomoe comments. "We have to do just that, however - compromise."
[11:46] <Sailor_Dragon> "Now we either have to make the things we can compromise on sound more enticing to the dietmen, or go into hiding. Neither would be too terrible."
[11:47] * Sailor_Moon nods slowly. "I'll ask Rei if she can set up a meeting for me. I can bend on some of it, but he's going to have to change some of what he wants, too. I won't just hand over our identities like that."
[11:50] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods. "With that... something shall be worked out." 'Hopefully.'
[11:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[11:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> Leading Rei back to the elevator, Father is silent as the doors swish shut...
[11:35] * Rei-chan also remains silent, her head bowed and expression pained.
[11:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> As you are taken downstairs, "...Rei. Do you think you could get Sailor Moon to go halfway, or to make any concessions?" he asks abrubtly.
[11:37] <Rei-chan> "...I don't think she'll listen to me," Rei admits quietly, sighing. "I can try," 'like I just did,' "But she seems resolute. And I have to follow her lead."
[11:38] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods. "Rei... as long as no one else finds out your identities, you will be safe. But should any of the other council members do so - and they are trying - you may be in danger."
[11:39] <Sailor_Anastasia> "So, try," he finishes simply, sounding a touch on the weary side now
[11:40] * Rei-chan nods glumly. "I guess that's all I can do." 'And then we can say goodbye to life on Earth when I fail...'
[11:43] <Sailor_Anastasia> "If you can manage at least something, I can get concessions and a resolution from the committee," he promises, his normal facade somewhat defunct at the moment.
[11:44] <Rei-chan> Sighing, "I'll do my best. I don't want to spend the rest of my days looking over my shoulder." Rei rubs her temples, marvelling at how quickly her life could go to hell.
[11:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> The door opens, the walk back to the car beginning.
[11:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> "As is, you must be careful about protecting your identities."
[11:46] <Rei-chan> "If..." Rei begins hesitantly as they near the car, "If things don't work out... do you know the nature of how we'll be... 'dealt with'? So we can at least have a chance of avoiding it."
[11:48] <Sailor_Anastasia> "If?" he says quietly.  "It would depend on who takes power in the council. Likely, the desire would be to... deal with the problem as simply as possible."
[11:50] <Rei-chan> "An arrest wouldn't be simple..." Rei's expression darkens. "Five girls suddenly dying in completely unrelated 'accidents', though..."
[11:51] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods grimly. "Or perhaps something even less notable than that. A Missing Persons case gets no attention in the news..." He stops at the door, thinking. "Rei. As my contingency, if things come to worst, reveal your identity to the world. That will effectively cripple any action the government can take for a long while."
[11:53] * Rei-chan nods. "I'll bear that in mind. Though only as a last resort. God, what a mess..." she shakes her head.
[11:54] <Sailor_Moon> 'Rei-chan?' Usagi sends to the miko.
[11:54] <Rei-chan> 'Yes?' Rei thinks back tiredly.
[11:55] <Sailor_Moon> Usagi sighs mentally. 'I'm willing to talk terms with him, but not tonight. If you can set up a meeting for just you, me, and him at some point, we can try to work something out.'
[11:57] <Rei-chan> Rei's relief is palpable, and she looks at her father with a small smile. "Maybe things aren't unsalvagable. If we can schedule another meeting, she might be more willing to work out a compromise."
[12:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> He pauses as he opens the door, turning to you. "...Fine," he says, sighing a tiny bit. "I can stall the committee a few more days simply enough."
[12:02] <Rei-chan> "The Shrine, tomorrow evening?" the miko suggests for the meeting.
[12:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> "...Fine," he says again, as you go out to the waiting car.
[12:04] * Rei-chan gets in the car herself. 'Hikawa, tomorrow evening, Usagi.' "I think things will go better with a less formal and confrontational atmosphere," she tells her father. "The way that meeting just was I don't think you really had a chance from the beginning."
[12:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nodding once to the driver, the car starts to go. "Yes," is all he says, falling back into a clipped silence.
[12:06] <Sailor_Moon> 'I'll be there,' Usagi sends back.
[12:06] * Rei-chan contents herself to remain silent as well on the drive back home.
[12:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> Arriving soon enough back home, the driver gets out to open Rei's door. "Tomorrow evening, Rei," Father says, again withdrawn.
[12:08] * Rei-chan nods. "We'll be here. I'll see you then," she replies, before stepping out the car and back up to the Shrine.
-------
[12:07] <Sailor_Moon> After several minutes of silence, Usagi finally speaks up again. "I just got through talking with Rei. I'll meet with him tomorrow night at the Shrine - but I think it'll just be me and Rei, this time."
[12:08] * Sailor_Mercury nods, and smiles. "Good luck." she offers, standing.
[12:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> Tomoe nods. "Good luck indeed, Usagi."
[12:08] * Sailor_Moon smiles a bit. "Thanks... I just hope I do better this time."
[12:10] * Sailor_Mercury stretches a little. "You'll do fine." she replies, smiling a bit lopsidedly.
[12:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[12:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> Coming home after that night's meeting, Usagi feels a langour over her and the weight of what happened pressing down...
[12:37] * Usagi-chan enters the house slowly, her footsteps dragging. "I'm home," she calls out rather dully.
[12:39] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Hello, Usagi," Mom calls from the dining room, Chibi Usa's voice following, "Mommy! Grandmom made chocolate cake and it's really good," she crows, sounding at least a bit happy with that. "And I helped make it, too!"
[12:40] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit. "That's great, Chibi Usa-chan - I'll have to try a piece in a little while." She heads on into the dining room, trying to keep a smile on her face.
[12:43] <Sailor_Anastasia> The family is sitting around a halfway-gone chocolate cake, relaxing after a long day. Shingo reaches to cut another slice quickly on seeing Usagi, knowing how these things don't last with her. "Mom, you made another cake, didn't you? Usagi's home."
[12:44] <Usagi-chan> "Nice to see you too, jerkface," Usagi says, shooting out her tongue at her younger brother as she heads over to cut herself a modest slice of cake.
[12:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Shingo, Usagi," Mom warns by habit, shaking her head. "There is more than enough for everyone."
[12:46] * Usagi-chan takes her slice of cake, eating it at a relatively normal speed. "This is pretty good, Chibi Usa-chan," she says, giving her daughter a smile.
[12:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Fine," Shingo grumbles, going to work on his piece.
[12:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> Chibi Usa smiles back. "Mom says that I'll be a really good cook when I grow up, at this rate," this pleases Chibi Usa, making her smile more.
[12:48] * Usagi-chan smiles brightly. "That's great... at least SOMEONE from our family will be able to cook," she says with a grin.
[13:03] <Sailor_Anastasia> Chibi Usa smiles at that, Shingo nodding. "That's for sure. Don't have to fear what Chibi Usa will bring home from Home Ec."
[13:04] * Usagi-chan frowns at that, giving her little brother a dirty look.
[13:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> Chibi Usa gives Shingo a nasty look as well, while Ikkuko smoothly steps in. "Shingo, even if Usagi can't cook, you don't have to throw it in her face."
[13:06] * Usagi-chan mutters at the 'save', but falls silent. She may not be able to cook, but she can still show Shingo who's boss around here. Satisfied in that knowledge, she turns back to her cake, mulling over what she's going to say to Dietman Hino tomorrow night.
[13:09] <Sailor_Anastasia> Shingo grumbles at the three pronged assault, wilting a bit.
[13:09] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Usagi," Ikkuko begins a moment later, "I promised I'd take Chibi Usa to the movies tomorrow, and she wants to go with you too."
[13:10] <Usagi-chan> "What time?" Usagi asks absently, still lost in her own thoughts.
[13:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> "The six PM show," Chibi Usa nods, smiling at the thought.
[13:15] * Usagi-chan grimaces. "I'm not going to be able to make it tomorrow... can we put it off until the day after?"
[13:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> Chibi droops at that, but nods. "Okay, Mommy. Can we go the day after tomorrow?"
[13:22] * Usagi-chan smiles, trying to lift the girl's spirits a bit. "I promise," she says with a smile. "I've just got an important meeting tomorrow night that I really can't miss, or I'd go with you for sure."
[13:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> "What's up, Usagi-chan," Ikkuko asks. "What do you have planned tomorrow?"
[13:26] * Usagi-chan frowns a bit. "The meeting tonight didn't go so well, but I'm going to try to talk with Rei's father again tomorrow night and work something out."
[13:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ikkuko frowns at that. "You should, Usagi. You don't need to get into a  fight with the government on top of everything else."
[13:33] * Usagi-chan sighs. "I know, but they want our identities. I'm not willing to give them that."
[13:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> Another frown there, Dad speaking up this time as he looks on. "Usagi, they are the government, though."
[13:35] * Usagi-chan narrows her eyes a bit at the recollection. "They also told us that THEY'D decide whether we were trustworthy or not, and if they decided we weren't, they'd 'take steps'," she says darkly. "Government or not, I don't like being threatened like that."
[13:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> He frowns at that as well. "I can understand that, Usagi, but getting in the government's ire won't do you any good, either."
[13:39] <Usagi-chan> "I know that, Daddy, but I'm not going to risk my friends' safety like that. If worst comes to worst we can always evacuate, but I'm hoping we won't have to - that's why I'm going to try to talk to Hino-san again tomorrow."
[13:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods. "Alright, Usagi."
[13:42] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit. "I hope we can work something out - I just hope he's a little more reasonable tomorrow than he was tonight."
[13:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Just be careful, Usagi-chan," Mom warns you, getting up to take the remaining cake in. "Don't get in trouble again."
[13:46] <Usagi-chan> "I'll do my best," Usagi says with a small smile.
[13:46] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[13:51] <Usagi-chan> The girls' first day back at school is predictably a grind, as everyone settles back into their familiar routines. As the day winds to a close, Usagi finds herself leaving Mugen arm in arm with her beautiful girlfriend, the two bound for the Hikawa Shrine in preparation for that evening's meeting.
[13:52] * Rei-chan is fairly tense as she walks along with Usagi, not really sure what to say after yesterday.
[13:53] * Usagi-chan seems rather thoughtful as she strolls along, although she notices how tense her love is. "Nervous?" she asks quietly.
[13:54] * Rei-chan looks up, not at all looking her usual confident self. "Usagi... what's going to happen today? Are you really going to give my father a chance?"
[13:56] * Usagi-chan sighs, looking at the pavement ahead of the two as they walk. "I'm going to try. I don't mind giving him more information about who we are and what we've done, but I'm not going to budge on our identities. I just can't... with the way he put it last night, it's too much of a risk."
[13:58] <Rei-chan> "He knows our identities, Usagi - he effectively said as much last night," Rei says fretfully. "Whether we give them or not, he knows. So we might as well give them and show that we're willing to deal with the government."
[14:00] * Usagi-chan sighs. "I won't just roll over for them, Rei. If he'd been willing to talk without trying to threaten us, I might have - but having done that, I can't trust him with that unless HE makes some concessions. The only way I'd give him and his council our identities outright is if we get advance warning from him in case they DO decide anything that's going to put us in harm's way."
[14:02] <Rei-chan> "If they decide we're their enemies they'll have us quietly eliminated. Nothing can change that. All we can do is try to convince them we're not and never will be their enemies." Rei sighs, "If worst comes to worst, Father suggested we reveal ourselves to the public - the government won't be able to deal with us quietly, then."
[14:05] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "Even that's not necessarily true. It'll cause more of a stir if we go public and then disappear, but if they cover their tracks well enough no one will ever know what happened to us." She gets a rather dejected look. "If it looks like we can't come to terms, though, I'm going to see about having us all take up residence on the Moon. I can't force you guys to go, obviously, but it's the only place we can be sure we're safe."
[14:11] * Rei-chan sags. "Where you go, I'll follow," she tells the blonde, sensing that Usagi's already made her mind and nothing she can say will change it.
[14:12] * Usagi-chan slips an arm around Rei's waist, drawing the miko in close. "I don't want to go either, Rei-chan, but I don't see what else we can do. Either way - whether I tell them or not - we have to worry about what they're going to do next."
[14:16] * Rei-chan doesn't have a good reply to that, even if she thinks Usagi is being too paranoid. "Yeah..." she sighs, walking the remaining distance to the Shrine in sullen silence.
[14:19] * Usagi-chan sighs at Rei's silence, not sure what she can do or say to reassure the miko that she really does intend to do her best at this meeting.
[14:28] <Rei-chan> --------
[15:43] <Sailor_Anastasia> That evening, after your first day of classes and turning in break homework, Rei and Usagi gather at the Hikawa Shrine and wait for the meeting. Quite a bit may be resting on this, perhaps even your lives or reputations.
[15:44] * Rei-chan gets some tea ready for the meeting. Have to show proper hospitality to her father, after all.
[15:45] * Usagi-chan waits on the couch in thoughtful silence, mentally rehearsing what she is and isn't willing to say and what she'd like to get in return.
[15:49] <Sailor_Anastasia> The time for the meeting draws nearer, six PM passing. A sense of tension settles over the Shrine as the day's business passes outside, managed by your Grandfather and Hotaru.
[15:50] * Rei-chan waits, occasionally casting nervous glances at Usagi as she frets over the results of this meeting.
[15:52] * Usagi-chan has a rather worried expression on her face, hoping she can do better this time than at the meeting the previous evening.
[15:52] <Sailor_Anastasia> Six ten passes by at a crawl, stress flowing throughout the room like the warm summer air. Six nineteen, you hear something outside. "....care about..."
[15:52] * Usagi-chan looks up, straining her ears to try to hear what's being said outside.
[15:53] <Sailor_Anastasia> Somewhat lower this time, but audible to Usagi's sharp ears, "...business inside."
[15:55] <Usagi-chan> "I think he's here, Rei-chan," Usagi says quietly. "At least I don't recognize the voices."
[15:55] <Rei-chan> "I'd better go see what the holdup is," Rei says, standing up and going to investigate.
[15:56] * Usagi-chan nods, leaning back on the couch and taking a deep breath to calm her nerves.
[15:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> As you go outside, you see your father coming towards the house, leaving Gramps and Hotaru-chan behind in the courtyard. His expression is coldly composed now, Gramps with embers of displeasure and Hotaru just quiet and watching.
[15:57] * Rei-chan reins in a sigh, hoping that isn't setting the tone for this meeting... "Good evening, Father," she bows respectfully, "Won't you come in?"
[15:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yes," he says, doing just that and into your living room. He spies Usagi on the couch, but says nothing as he sits on the other side of it.
[15:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> Taking a breath, "We have much to discuss... again, Rei."
[15:59] * Usagi-chan opens her eyes and looks up at the politician in silence, although not so coldly as the night before.
[16:00] <Rei-chan> "Hopefully we'll be able to reach some sort of understanding today," Rei says with a glance at Usagi. Kneeling at the table between Usagi and the dietman, she pushes forward a cup of green tea, "Tea, Father?"
[16:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yes, Rei," he says, focusing on Usagi now. His gaze is intense now, studying you strongly.
[16:03] * Usagi-chan returns the stare calmly, seemingly unperturbed by the focused stare.
[16:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> This continues for a few moments, before Hino relents and starts. "Miss Tsukino, you must understand something. The mood regarding both the Juuban incidents and the Sailor Senshi in general has become a polarizing force in the government. It must be determined to their satisfaction if you're going to be a threat or be willing to cooperate."
[16:10] <Usagi-chan> "I can understand the government's concern," Usagi replies. "I'd like to reassure them if I can - I have nothing to hide. But my primary concern is the safety of my senshi and my friends. I will not give up any information that I think compromises that safety."
[16:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> Taking that in as expected, he goes on. "As I hope you do and will, for your sake, my sake and Rei's sake. Many see you as little better than the monsters you battle, or even as another threat or as a cause of the Juuban illness."
[16:15] <Usagi-chan> "I can definitely tell you that we're no danger to the people of Tokyo themselves. Our main goal is to make sure they can lead safe and normal lives as much as possible." Usagi leans back on the couch, her legs crossed and her hands in her lap as she speaks.
[16:16] <Rei-chan> "Isn't there any way we can reassure them without... well, without putting us at their mercy by revealing who we are?" Rei asks hopefully.
[16:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> His own posture rigid and correct, he speaks futher. "I personally believe that, Miss Tsukino. However, wihout evidence of some sort, you will do little to sway many members of our government." He acknowledges Rei, going on with a nod. "Perhaps, if a compromise is reached." Relenting slightly, "It's still nearly political suicide if they are revealed to the committee, but the alternative may very well be worse."
[16:20] <Rei-chan> "Worse?" Rei prods him.
[16:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> "If the faction to deal with the senshi gets enough support..." he spreads his heads out. "The matter has gotten the attention of the Prime MInister, so the political pressure is rising."
[16:24] * Usagi-chan waits for Rei to finish before speaking again. "I apologize for my hasty words at the meeting last night," she says smoothly. "I saw what you said as a threat - whether intentional or not - and I'm afraid I won't be reaching any compromises under duress. But that aside, I'm perfectly willing to provide you with more information about our activities."
[16:27] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I see," he goes on, again totally focused on Usagi. "That would be an excellent place to begin, then."
[16:29] * Usagi-chan nods slightly. "The one limitation I have is that I will not release the senshi's identities. You've made it clear that you have the capability of finding them yourself, but I'm afraid I've seen no reason to trust you enough to release that information yet myself. As far as anything else goes, feel free to ask."
[16:31] <Rei-chan> 'Usagi, he can release our identities whether we like it or not. But he won't unless we give him permission,' Rei points out with some exasparation at the blonde's talk of not trusting him.
[16:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> He raises a hand. "I found out through fortune Rei's identity and used that to get most of the information I have. The committee is not so fortunate."
[16:32] <Usagi-chan> 'THAT's why I didn't say it, Rei,' Usagi thinks at Hino's comment. 'He's not giving them his personal information, he wants something directly from us.'
[16:35] * Usagi-chan nods her assent. "What exactly do you want to know, then?"
[16:36] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Let's start with the basics. Why are you fighting these mysterious threats, what ARE these threats, and how do you do what you do?"
[16:39] <Rei-chan> "We fight them because they're a danger to the world we all live on, and there have been several different threats. We can give you specifics on any of them if you like. As to how we can do what we do, for the most part it's magic - although my training as a miko also plays a big part in how I fight the monsters we face," Rei supplies, giving him the chance to ask for elaboration on any point.
[16:40] * Usagi-chan looks as if she's about to speak, but falls silent as Rei begins.
[16:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> Turning his daughter, he quickly turns the imformation given over in his head. "Start with the threats," he begins, letting the rest settle for now. "Who is sending these monsters to Juuban? Why only Juuban and Tokyo?"
[16:46] <Rei-chan> "Well, it isn't just Juuban and Tokyo," Rei begins. "Almost all of it is, yes, but the ones that caused the first attacks last year had operations all over the world. They all got dealt with by Sailor V before the really serious fighting in Tokyo."
[16:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods once. "We've not unearthed any reports about incidents in other countries or even generally other parts of Japan, save for one isolated case in America. Regardless of Sailor V, why is the focus on this city?"
[16:52] <Rei-chan> "Honestly, I'm not entirely sure. It could be that Tokyo is naturally a magical hotspot." She bites her lip, thinking of the 'crystal points' and concluding that that's probably the case. "But... I'm not really sure. I haven't really compared it to other places..." she glances at Usagi for her opinion.
[16:53] <Usagi-chan> "I haven't either," Usagi admits, looking uncertain. "I know even aside from the attacks there's a lot of magical activity in and around Tokyo, but whether that attracts these enemies or not I don't know. All I do know is that if they do start becoming a threat, we step in to deal with them as quickly as we can."
[16:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> Storing that away for later and again turning his dissecting, prying gaze on Usagi, he backtracks a bit. "Very well. Then, you mentioned multiple threats? Who were they? Were they another government? Terrorists of some special sort?"
[17:00] <Usagi-chan> "The first threat we faced was known as the Dark Kingdom, basically an evil, magically based kingdom from a period before most of Earth's recorded history. The second threat, the group that appeared last December, was a smaller group of people from back around the same time, but not connected with the Dark Kingdom directly."
[17:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> He thinks that over. "Dark Kingdom, you say? Tell me more about them - they had a leader with long brown hair and a military uniform of sorts, correct?"
[17:05] <Rei-chan> "That sounds like Nephrite," Rei says, giving Usagi a confused look.
[17:06] <Usagi-chan> "That would have been one of their generals, actually," Usagi says with a nod to Rei. "Not their main leader, but one of their top-ranking soldiers."
[17:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Nephrite? He has been dealt with, Miss Tsukino?" A tiny bit of interest broaches across his face now, assuming but liking confirmation on the matter.
[17:14] * Usagi-chan sighs slightly. "He's... dead, yes." A tiny flicker of pain crosses her face, but she does her best to hide it quickly.
[17:16] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Good," he moves on briskly from that, though likely noting your reaction. "Has the rest of this Dark Kingdom been disposed of?"
[17:17] <Rei-chan> "Every last one," Rei confirms. 'Except me...'
[17:17] <Usagi-chan> "The Dark Kingdom is no longer a threat, I can assure you," Usagi agrees, her eyes flickering over to Rei at the miko's thought.
[17:20] <Sailor_Anastasia> "What of the leader of it? Who was it... and is this person dead?" he asks, prying for more.
[17:20] <Usagi-chan> "The physical leader of the Dark Kingdom was named Beryl, and the force behind her was named Metallia. Both are dead now," Usagi says with a nod.
[17:24] <Sailor_Anastasia> "The force behind her? Are you implying some sort of unusual creature, or a organization supporting her," he asks again, stopping a moment to look at his cold and untouched glass. "Rei, I would like some hot tea."
[17:25] <Rei-chan> "One moment," Rei picks up his glass and walks through to the kitchen, returning a moment later with the same glass, now steaming slightly.
[17:26] * Usagi-chan hesitates for a moment, thinking. "I guess the best description of it would be some kind of demon. We ourselves didn't find out very much about it until the very fall of the Dark Kingdom, and even the details we have are pretty sketchy."
[17:26] * Rei-chan carefully keeps silent as she hands her father his tea.
[17:27] <Sailor_Anastasia> Taking it while listening to Usagi, "A demon?" This causes him to blink, surprised. "Elaborate." This comes out as a command, rather harsh and demanding information.
[17:28] * Rei-chan keeps her head lowered and remains quiet.
[17:28] * Usagi-chan frowns. "Like I said, we don't have a lot of details about Metallia ourselves, just that it was some massive supernatural force that was powering Queen Beryl. I doubt anyone could really say much more than that about it at this point."
[17:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> Very quietly, "Why did you call it a demon?"
[17:32] <Usagi-chan> "I have no other name for it," Usagi says simply. "As far as we could tell it was intelligent itself, but it didn't exist in this world. I don't know what else to call something like that."
[17:32] <Rei-chan> "A more accurate term would be Goddess, Father," Rei speaks up quietly, "Albeit an immensely evil one. You could liken the Dark Kingdom to a doomsday cult, and Metallia was the culmination of their apocalyptic vision."
[17:33] * Usagi-chan winces slightly as Rei speaks up, but remains quiet - she had been trying to avoid having the miko get into the subject.
[17:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> Fixing onto Rei, and with a touch of deliberate irony, "A Kami, Rei? But it was destroyed and will not threated Tokyo again?"
[17:35] * Rei-chan winces at him putting it in those terms, but can hardly deny it. "It has been completely destroyed."
[17:35] * Usagi-chan's eyes narrow at the man's cruel treatment of his own daughter, her face tightening.
[17:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Good," he says, still sounding rather harsh and perhaps a bit angry. He takes a visible breath, even looking away a moment. After that, his cooler composure as resurfaced. "Then what of the threat afterwards that was related?"
[17:39] <Usagi-chan> Usagi looks a bit shaken, but she does her best to maintain her composure. "It was a group of criminals from a magical prison. Our best guess is that the seals on their prison were weakened when Metallia was destroyed and they managed to escape it a few days afterward."
[17:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods once. "The Tokyo Bay District events and Channel 5 were related," he more or less asserts. Snorting, "Why, then?"
[17:44] * Usagi-chan takes a deep breath to compose herself, not looking at Hino as she speaks. "The small group responsible captured one of the senshi - Sailor Jupiter. We were working to try to get her back during both incidents."
[17:46] <Sailor_Anastasia> Hino nods. "The channel 5 incident... and the creatures there. Who summoned them?"
[17:48] * Usagi-chan keeps her gaze on her lap as she speaks. "A woman named Cynthia, a demon summoner. She's dead as well," she finishes quietly.
[17:50] <Rei-chan> "She planned to open a gate that would summon thousands of them, but we interrupted her ritual and sealed the gate before that happened," Rei chimes in, still somewhat subdued.
[17:53] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yes..." A stop there, his mood lessening. "And this threat was finished as well?"
[17:53] * Usagi-chan nods. "At the end of December, yes."
[17:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods. "And... then Mugen began, as well as the other attacks," he prods after a short, strained silence. "Rei, you were a part of Mugen from nearly the beginning."
[17:55] * Usagi-chan falls silent, letting Rei tell the story that she knows better.
[17:57] * Rei-chan nods, knowing her father is already quite well informed over these events. "It wasn't long after I transferred there that I was... subverted into joining the Deathbusters. They had been together as a group for almost a year before then, I believe, but they didn't start their activities until shortly before I joined."
[17:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods. "Souichi Tomoe ran them, or was there another influence?" he asks, getting into it again.
[17:59] <Rei-chan> "As I told you back in April, things were being run by a creature named Germatou that was possessing Professor Tomoe," Rei nods. "After the Sailor Senshi got involved at Mugen, Germatou escaped and took Hotaru with him, and we joined forces to destroy Germatou and get Hotaru back."
[18:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> Hino ponders that, "And what of that other group? We have evidence that there were two groups working at this time - two sets of differing and unrelated attacks."
[18:09] * Rei-chan falls silent to let Usagi handle this one.
[18:10] <Usagi-chan> "A pair of migrant aliens," Usagi says. "Gathering energy to try to maintain their existence, which at the time they thought they needed to live. They've learned that wasn't the case since then, and aren't currently a danger to anyone."
[18:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Aliens," he asks interestedly, perking up a bit as that as the setting sun causes the room to begin to dim. "Are they still on this planet and alive?"
[18:16] <Usagi-chan> "They are still alive, yes." Usagi says, evading the second question.
[18:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> Shaking his head, "Are they still here, Miss Tsukino," he asks again, pressing ruthlessly.
[18:20] <Usagi-chan> "I know where they are, yes," Usagi answers simply. "I won't give you that information though. I consider that the same as giving up the senshi's identities."
[18:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Fine," he concedes after a moment. "And there have been a few isolated incidents in the past month, that have again stirred our attention."
[18:24] * Rei-chan nods, thinking of the televised battle that prompted this meeting.
[18:25] * Usagi-chan sighs slightly. "Those are a lot more complicated to explain than anything we've covered so far. To keep things simple at least, I can tell you that I don't think we'll have any more battles like the one that was seen on TV. I could be wrong, but that's the way things look at the moment."
[18:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods gruffly, "Go on, Miss Tsukino."
[18:31] * Usagi-chan pauses for a moment, not sure how much to tell him or of even how to put what she DOES think she should tell him. Finally she begins. "The easiest way to explain it is that the group we've just finished fighting were invaders from a separate dimension. We've dealt with the ones that were sent here, and recently we traveled to their home dimension and dealt with the remainder of the threat there."
[18:36] <Sailor_Anastasia> A short pause there as he sips at his cool again tea. "I see..."
[18:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> Hino looks out into the darkening sky and city from the window view, thoughtful.
[18:38] * Usagi-chan sits back in her seat, trying to calm her nerves a bit as she waits for the politician's next question.
[18:38] <Rei-chan> "The Sailor Senshi in that other dimension were incapacitated by a powerful weapon that weakened the dimensional wall, which is how the threat was able to come into our world," Rei tells him, feeling that the government needs to know the consequences of a world without sailor suited girls to protect it.
[18:40] <Sailor_Anastasia> "And..." his gaze is still skyward, his demeanor slihgtly distracted. "Go on."
[18:44] <Rei-chan> "It was a world much like ours - there were subtle differences, but nothing major in the grand scheme of things," Rei begins. "The enemy - they called themselves the Black Moon, after defeating the senshi of that world, set about taking over Tokyo. They also sent scouts into our world through the weakened dimensional barrier. After we dealt with the scouts here, we travelled to their dimension..."
[18:44] <Rei-chan> She sighs, "It was a Tokyo in the grip of anarchy that we found. People had been corrupted with negative energy, and all order had completely broken down. But by defeating the Black Moon, we were able to restore the natural balance, and people returned to normal before we left."
[18:52] <Sailor_Anastasia> More pondering, before he goes on a few moments later. You could stand to turn on another light, too. It's getting dark in here. "I see..." Standing a moment, "Let's take a short break," he says abruptly. "Rei, the bathroom is still down the hall?"
[18:52] <Rei-chan> "It hasn't been moved," Rei confirms.
[18:54] <Sailor_Anastasia> With that, he exits out, leaving the two Senshi by themselves for the moment.
[18:55] * Usagi-chan focuses her sensitive hearing on Hino, listening in case he's actually contacting someone outside while he takes his break.
[18:55] * Rei-chan stands up and goes to turn on the main light. "Well, how do you think things are going so far?" she asks Usagi.
[18:56] * Usagi-chan shakes her head a bit, her concentration broken. "I blew it a lot earlier than I thought I would," Usagi says with a sigh. "I got too comfortable."
[18:56] <Rei-chan> "You blew it?" Rei blinks. "I thought things went fairly well..."
[18:57] <Usagi-chan> "I let him get me rattled when he started asking about the criminals," Usagi explains. "I was trying to stay on top of that, and then he caught me off guard. I should have done better."
[18:58] <Rei-chan> "I don't know," Rei shrugs, kneeling at the table once more, "I didn't see it as being a disaster or anything. What would you have done differently?"
[19:00] * Usagi-chan sighs a bit. "I've been trying to remember some of what I learned back then," Usagi says, not wanting to say much more than that in case the dietman is still listening. "Part of it is keeping your calm no matter what happens, and I didn't do so well at that. Didn't do very well at it last night, either."
[19:01] <Rei-chan> "You're not a machine, Usagi," Rei points out kindly. "You got a little bit emotional, but you didn't freak out or let it sidetrack you. I don't see it as a big problem."
[19:02] <Usagi-chan> "I know," Usagi smiles a bit. "I am doing better than I did last night at least, I think. I've just got a lot to learn still."
[19:03] * Rei-chan idly heats up her long ignored tea and takes a sip of it. "Just try to relax. If you focus too hard on 'being calm' it'll just make you more tense."
[19:04] * Usagi-chan nods, then looks up at her girlfriend. "How do you think it's going?"
[19:06] <Rei-chan> "Like I said - fairly well," Rei nods. "We're telling him what he wants to know, and hopefully it'll reassure him - and hence the committee - that we're on the level."
[19:06] * Usagi-chan closes her eyes for a moment. "I just hope it's enough," she says quietly.
[19:07] <Rei-chan> "We'll find out soon enough, I'm sure," Rei says calmly, continuing to sip her tea as she waits for her father to return. "Try some tea yourself - it's a relaxing herbal blend," she suggests to Usagi, incidentally heating up the remaining cup on the table.
[19:08] * Usagi-chan smiles, taking the cup. "Thanks, Rei-chan." She takes a small sip. "This is pretty good," she agrees.
[19:09] <Sailor_Anastasia> Usagi - you hear nothing but his steps as he comes back into the room. He sits where he was before, settling in.
[19:09] * Rei-chan nods to her father, waiting for his next questions.
[19:10] * Usagi-chan looks up at the dietman as he returns, holding her tea in both hands.
[19:11] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nodding to you once, "I think that's enough about the enemies. What about yourselves?" Peering closer, "How do you perform this magic of yours? Could you teach others?"
[19:12] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "Our senshi abilities aren't something that can be taught. They're more or less innate - something we're just able to do because we can."
[19:13] <Rei-chan> "The same seems to be the case for all magic," Rei adds, "People are born with a certain potential. While we might be able to help someone to focus their innate powers, such power cannot be granted. And people born with magical affinity are rare."
[19:14] * Usagi-chan nods to that. "I only know of a bare handful of people outside the senshi with anything even close to the magical ability we have."
[19:14] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods slowly. "That works out with what we've learned ourselves," he comments. "We've only found a few others since our first venture into these matters."
[19:15] <Rei-chan> "Yes," Rei nods, recalling what he told her of the governments own ill-fated magical team.
[19:15] * Usagi-chan sips at her tea. "Most people with magical abilities don't even know how to use them, to be honest," Usagi says.
[19:16] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods again, opening up a bit. "One of the ones we found didn't even understand he was casting magic."
[19:17] <Usagi-chan> "It's easy to write some of it off as a coincidence, especially if it doesn't produce any visible effect," Usagi agrees. "It can just seem like an odd occurrence."
[19:18] <Rei-chan> "With inner focus one can understand their own power and master it," Rei supplies. "There was a martial artist who visited this temple some months ago - he wouldn't call it magic, but he was capable of creating fire from his hands through his training."
[19:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nodding, Hino looks away again quietly before looking back at you. "Yes," he says to Rei. "What I'm about to say stays between the two of you, alright?"
[19:20] * Usagi-chan glances over at Rei for a moment, then nods. "All right."
[19:20] * Rei-chan blinks, but then nods. "Of course."
[19:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> "As a peace offering, I am going to suggest that you help tutor the magically inclined we've gathered." Hino lays it out bluntly. "If the government has some capable people of our own, perhaps certain parties will be more restrained and relaxed in their dealings with the Senshi."
[19:21] * Usagi-chan sits back in her seat, a thoughtful expression on her face as she mulls over the suggestion.
[19:22] * Rei-chan looks at Usagi. 'That could actually benefit us as well,' she notes. 'It lets us meet other magically inclined people, and means that there are more people capable of helping us with whatever threats we have to deal with in future.'
[19:24] <Usagi-chan> 'I thought of that,' Usagi agrees. 'The only catch I can see to it is that whoever we train is going to be loyal to the government first and foremost. I definitely don't mind teaching people to heal and repair, but I'd rather not teach them how to destroy - it's too easy to abuse that.'
[19:25] <Rei-chan> 'But we get to monitor and guide them as we train them. I agree it's not something we should just do blindly, but handled properly... this could really work out well for us. The government isn't really in the business of destroying stuff, anyway.'
[19:26] * Usagi-chan finally speaks aloud again. "I might be willing to consider that, depending on what you want me to teach."
[19:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods once. "Whatever they can do, frankly. The hows of it aren't important, as long as the government can see that they are more capable after the training."
[19:28] * Usagi-chan shrugs. "That should be simple enough - some of it is just learning to understand what you have and learn how to focus it."
[19:28] <Rei-chan> "What will be the logistics of the training?" Rei asks, "I mean, we'll have to meet these people on a regular basis for some time to really help them get a handle on what they can do."
[19:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> "That will be determined at a later date," he says. "Assuming this goes through as I hope it does." Another pause as Hino stands again, this time looking somewhat satisfied. "While there is more to discuss, the hour is late and the committee meets early tomorrow."
[19:32] <Usagi-chan> "Before you go, Hino-san, I'd like to ask for one thing from you," Usagi says.
[19:32] * Rei-chan stands herself, before glancing at Usagi curiously.
[19:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yes, Miss Tsukino," he asks, looking at you.
[19:33] <Usagi-chan> "If things with the committee don't go well, I'd like to know about it. I don't propose to fight the government at all, but if we're in danger from that end I'd like a chance to get my people away from Tokyo safely. You have my word that that's all that will happen if you do tell me, though."
[19:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> Looking at Rei a moment before answering, "...Alright."
[19:34] * Usagi-chan nods, breathing a small sigh of relief. "Thank you, Hino-san. I wish you the best of luck with your committee."
[19:36] <Sailor_Anastasia> With that, he just leaves at least, the clock in the room well past nine at this point.
[19:37] * Rei-chan blows out a long breath. "Well... that bit at the end was unexpected... still, I'm happy with how things went."
[19:37] * Usagi-chan sighs a bit, letting her body sink into the couch as she releases some of the tension that's built up over the past three hours.
[19:38] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah... I'm not so worried now. The main thing I wanted to get out of this was what I asked at the end - I just want to make sure we can stay safe." Usagi says, her eyes closed.
[19:38] * Rei-chan shakes her head. "I think that was a given. If Father lost control of the committee, I'm certain he'd warn me."
[19:39] <Usagi-chan> "You're probably right, but I think it's probably better to be sure," Usagi replies. "At least now we know."
[19:41] <Rei-chan> "That we do," Rei nods, going to sit next to Usagi on the couch. "I think this'll work out, though. Training those people for the government will build up good will on both sides."
[19:42] <Usagi-chan> "I hope so. And finding out what they expect will probably give us a better idea of what they want to do, too." Usagi lays her head on Rei's shoulder. "I'm just glad we managed to work things out."
[19:43] <Rei-chan> "After the way things went yesterday, I didn't have a lot of hope," Rei admits, gently rubbing Usagi's back.
[19:45] * Usagi-chan purrs contentedly at Rei's gentle massage. "I'll be honest," she admits. "I'm still not sure how much to trust him, but I think he'll at least try to do what he said. I just wish I knew what he knew but didn't say anything about."
[19:48] <Rei-chan> "They don't trust us and we don't trust them," Rei agrees, "But this gives us a chance to work things out and build that trust up." She smirks at Usagi, "After all, we don't want the Moon Kingdom to be on bad terms with Japan when it gets up and running."
[19:49] * Usagi-chan giggles. "No, I'd rather not have that problem. It's going to be enough of a nightmare establishing relations with Earth without starting off on the wrong foot with someone."
[19:51] <Rei-chan> "Well, that's for some time in the future." Rei cricks her back a bit, "For now we can continue being Japanese school students and occasional defenders of love and justice."
[19:53] <Usagi-chan> "Let's keep it as occasional as we can," Usagi says with a smile, looking over at Rei. "I'm looking forward to a vacation from senshi business for a while."
[19:54] <Rei-chan> "I hope we can get a nice break until the next world-ending threat shows up," Rei nods, smiling back.
[19:56] <Usagi-chan> "I'm also hoping for a relaxing evening with a certain dark-haired miko," Usagi says with a small grin, leaning over to give Rei a kiss.
[19:59] * Rei-chan tenderly returns the kiss, parting after a moment. "I think it's past Hotaru-chan's bedtime," she grins.
[20:00] <Usagi-chan> "I'd say it's about time we went to bed ourselves," Usagi says with a smile. "Shall I escort you, Miss Hino?"
[20:03] * Rei-chan stands up, taking Usagi's hands in her own. "It has been too long," she complains, smiling in anticipation.
[20:05] <Usagi-chan> "I completely agree," Usagi says with a sharp nod. "I think

[10:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[10:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> That evening, after heading home from Usagi's... "Hey, sis!" Kurumi calls to you over dinner. Grandfather is no where to be seen at the moment, perhaps off to see a friend or somesuch. "Why'd you come home so late, Natsume? I was going to try to get you to come to the mall with me."
[10:23] <Natsume> "Kurumi, you know how I feel about... shopping..."
[10:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I know," she concedes, "But it's no fun to go to the mall by myself, and all of my friends were busy," she explains, sighing. "Anyway, why were you so late? I ended up not going at all because I waited too long for you."
[10:26] <Natsume> "And at any rate, I was busy visiting someone," she answers. "She seems almost as knowledgeable about chi as grandfather."
[10:27] * Natsume leaves out the small fact of being blasted into unconscious and waking up in said person's house...
[10:28] <Natsume> "In fact, starting from now, I'm going to learning how to control my power even better from her."
[10:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Really," Kurumi asks, nibbling on a bit of white rice. "She's really that good... say. She isn't some old hag who runs a ramen shop down a few wards, is it? Grandfather was talking about her a few weeks back - she's not well liked."
[10:29] <Natsume> "Ah, no, not at all, in fact she seems around my age," Natsume says.
[10:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Oh, good. What's her name... do we know her, Natsume?" Kurumi muses, picking away at chunks of rice and little else. She doesn't really look hungry today, you note.
[10:33] <Natsume> "Hmmm, well, if I tell you you have to promise to keep it to yourself," she says beforehand. "I promised her that I wouldn't spread her name around needlessly."
[10:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> Kurumi smiles. "Of course, Natsume. I'm not a gossip about family business."
[10:36] <Natsume> "Her name is Tsukino Usagi," Natsume says. "This is first time I've met her in person... but I seem to recall hearing the name somewhere before... probably around school at some point."
[10:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[10:37] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[10:38] <Sailor_Anastasia> Kurumi blinks, thinking a moment. "I've heard that name, too," she says after a moment, thinking. "She was in the local gossip pools for something, but I can't remember what."
[10:39] <Natsume> "Hmmm," Natsume thinks a bit, before shrugging it off. "If we can't remember, it must not be that important."
[10:39] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Maybe," Kurumi says quietly. "Damn, I know it was something juicy, too." Frowning as she tries to remember, she turns away and puts down her chopsticks.
[10:40] <Natsume> "Anyway, I showed her my sword, she said she was impressed, but it was still very rough," Natsume continues. "She says she'll be able to show me how to polish my control, among other things."
[10:41] <Natsume> "She was amazing herself, she chanted this strange spell, and was able to my injuries in seconds," Natsume goes on. "Though she has a tendency to stare a lot... I can't really explain that."
[10:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> An absent nod. "That's good, Natsume... Wait." she blinks. "Usagi Tsukino? She's that girl who went from being a total legendary failure," she snaps her fingers, "to getting a scholarship to Mugen, the Infinity School."
[10:43] <Natsume> "Mugen? The genius private school? Well, if she got in there, she couldn't have been that big a failure," Natsume surmises.
[10:43] <Sailor_Anastasia> She nods. "That place that rich scientist runs. It's said to be almost impossible to pass the entrance exams, and that anyone who graduates from there is automatically going to Toudai or any school they want."
[10:44] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Guess not. I dunno how good you'd have to be to get a scholarship there," she shakes her head in amusement.
[10:45] <Natsume> "Hm, wasn't there some other girl who got into Mugen? Errr... what was her name," Natsume thinks. "Mizuno I think?"
[10:46] <Sailor_Anastasia> Pondering it a moment, "Yeah, Ami Mizuno. But she was the top rated student in Tokyo, so that's no surprise. I think everyone else was happy she left, so they wouldn't look so bad by comparison."
[10:49] <Natsume> "Hmmm, I never would've guessed Tsukino was a genius," Natsume says. "Though if she knows so much about this power I have, she must be."
[10:50] <Sailor_Anastasia> With a murmur of agreement, "Must be. Funny, too. Someone like that was in our school the entire time, again."
[10:52] <Natsume> "Now that I know my new teacher is a genius, I must work even harder to win her approval!" Natsume announces.
[10:54] <Natsume> "Hey, Kurumi, you should come too! Maybe she can teach you how to use your chi too."
[10:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> Kurumi is taken off guard at that, smiling quirkily. "No thanks, Natsume-chan. I'm not interested in leaping tall buildings in a single bound or slaying monsters. I'll leave that to my more energetic sister."
[10:59] <Natsume> "Hm, well, alright then," Natsume relents. "She said I was going to be training with someone else... I wonder who it will be..."
[11:02] <Natsume> "Anyway, where is grandfather at the moment? I need to speak with him about something."
[11:03] <Sailor_Anastasia> "He's off with a couple of friends for the evening," she sighs. "Looks like an excuse to drink too much sake and come home at 3 AM."
[11:04] * Natsume sighs. "For such a strong warrior to indulge in such sinful pleasures," Natsume says as she shakes her head.
[11:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> Kurumi shrugs. "It's his business, and if he wants to go do that once in a while... At least he only does it once in a great while."
[11:09] <Natsume> "Yes, that is true."
[11:14] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Anyway... so when is she going to teach you, Natsume?"
[11:15] <Natsume> "Saturdays after class. Anyway, I'm to go and practice on my own for the rest of the night," Natsume says. "I want to make my sword as strong as possible before I start my training under her."
[10:10] <Usagi-chan> -----
[10:13] <Usagi-chan> Tuesday. The second day back to classes - not quite as slow as Monday, but still one that finds one Usagi Tsukino dragging her feet as the day ends, headed down to the cool underground office of the Witches. As she enters, she finds the office emptier than usual, only Ami there working on her homework as usual. Usagi heads for her desk, plopping down in her seat with a groan.
[10:15] <Ami-chan> Looking up from her homework, Ami nods to the blonde. "Long day?" Ami asks with a slight smile, yawning.
[10:16] * Usagi-chan mutters something incoherent before speaking in a normal voice. "Yes," she says shortly. "What happened to my vacation?" she complains.
[10:18] <Ami-chan> "I think they call it a 'working vacation'." Ami replies, not without sympathy.
[10:19] * Usagi-chan grumbles. "Well, it stinks. I want another one," she says grumpily, laying her head down on her desk with her head turned to look at Ami.
[10:21] <Ami-chan> "Mm." Ami replies, smiling and yawning. "You could ask the Professor. I'm sure he'd sign off on it." Ami replies.
[10:22] * Usagi-chan sighs. "I'd just have to make everything up when I got back... it's not worth all the trouble. I just wish I'd been able to enjoy my vacation a little more, you know?"
[10:23] * Ami-chan smiles. "I'm impressed." she admits. "I do understand... though we did get to relax a little."
[10:25] <Usagi-chan> "You guys might have... I ended up sleeping half the time we were there," Usagi grouses. "I would have liked to look around some more after we took care of Rubeus.."
[10:27] <Ami-chan> "What would you have expected to find?" Ami asks curiously, absently finishing up her history homework.
[10:29] <Usagi-chan> "Oh, I don't know." Usagi raises her head. "I'd liked to have seen if that world was a lot different from ours outside of the senshi - I already know they were a lot different from us." Usagi frowns a bit at the memory of her counterpart and the other Rei's reaction to the news about her relationship with Rei here.
[10:31] * Ami-chan nods slowly, in emphatic agreement. "They were." Ami admits. "Though, I'm not sure I would want to explore the differences."
[10:32] * Usagi-chan smiles just a bit. "Well, their Mako-chan was definitely different," she says, giving Ami a knowing look. "What happened there, anyway?"
[10:33] * Ami-chan twitches a little. "What do you mean?" she asks, a bit lamely.
[10:34] * Usagi-chan grins wryly. "You know what I mean, Ami-chan. How did you two end up kissing, anyway?"
[10:37] * Ami-chan blushes. "It's... hard to explain." she hedges. "It was really just a series of misunderstandings and an apology..."
[10:38] <Usagi-chan> "So give it a try - I've got plenty of time to listen," Usagi says, giving the blue-haired girl a curious look. "It just doesn't seem like something either one of you would do on the spur of the moment."
[10:41] <Ami-chan> "Makoto was... trying to explain about a fight she'd gotten into with my counterpart." Ami ventures. "...And... well..." Ami pauses, her face heating up.
[10:41] * Usagi-chan nods, waiting for Ami to go on.
[10:43] <Ami-chan> "It had to do with her breasts." Ami sighs, embarrassed beyond belief. "She said something that I'm fairly sensitive about... so I tried to explain it to her."
[10:44] * Usagi-chan nods, guessing where it might have gone. "I don't see that as anything to get embarrassed about, but how did that turn into you two kissing?"
[10:54] <Ami-chan> "She asked why I felt the way I did... which in turn led to..." Ami pauses, red enough to direct traffic by, at this point. "Anyway, she tried giving me advice on my... romantic interests."
[10:55] * Usagi-chan gives Ami another curious look. "You don't have to get so embarrassed, Ami-chan. There's nothing wrong with being interested in someone else." She shakes her head a bit. "So what was her advice?"
[10:56] <Ami-chan> "That I should 'give them a big sloppy tongue kiss.'" Ami replies.
[10:57] * Usagi-chan can't help but laugh at that. "...okay, so I could see Mako-chan suggesting that. Is that why you ended up kissing her?" Usagi says, still smiling from her mirth.
[10:59] <Ami-chan> "Sort of." Ami admits, smiling a little, though still embarrassed. "I only got as far as a peck before I lost my nerve and ran."
[10:59] * Usagi-chan smiles. "That's sweet though... have you had a crush on Mako-chan for a while or something?"
[11:02] * Ami-chan nods, slowly, staring at the desktop. "Mmhmm. Pretty soon after we first met." she admits, smiling a little.
[11:02] <Usagi-chan> "Well, I can see where that might be kind of hard to deal with now," Usagi says with a sympathetic smile. "Have you talked with her about it yet?"
[11:03] * Ami-chan smiles wryly. "Artemis bullied me into it." she nods.
[11:03] * Usagi-chan grins. "Good for him! How did it go?"
[11:07] <Ami-chan> "Fine, I suppose." Ami says uncertainly, blushing. "I don't really know. I was kind of anxious, but we did settle it, and she's still talking to me." she finishes, sounding slightly amazed on the last point.
[11:09] * Usagi-chan smiles. "That's good at least, but it doesn't really surprise me - Mako-chan is pretty easygoing, really." She lays her head on her desk again, still looking over at Ami. "So what was it like to kiss her?" she asks. "If you don't mind me asking."
[11:11] * Ami-chan sighs, smiling a little goofily. "Better than I imagined." she admits.
[11:13] * Usagi-chan grins. "You're going to get quite a reputation as a kiss stealer if you keep it up, Ami-chan," Usagi giggles. "First Rei, now Makoto. Who's next on your list?"
[11:14] * Ami-chan boggles at Usagi briefly before going fiery red. "I didn't set out to do that... either of them."
[11:16] * Usagi-chan giggles a bit at the other girl's discomfiture. "I know, I'm only teasing. But you have to admit it is kind of unusual, really."
[11:18] <Ami-chan> "Yes..." Ami nods slowly, touching her lips absently, remembering.
[11:19] <Usagi-chan> "Have to admit, I was kind of jealous of you at one point," Usagi says, still looking at Ami with a smile. "You got to kiss Rei before I did - I don't think I really knew I was in love yet, but I was jealous all the same."
[11:22] * Ami-chan blushes, suddenly remembering that. "That... was entirely unexpected." she replies. "But... I think I might have envied, you, if I hadn't..." Ami shakes her head, blushing. "Rei-chan was... nice."
[11:25] * Usagi-chan grins a bit. "She said the same thing about you, too - a really quick learner, was I think the way she put it." She lays with head on one side for a moment, studying the other girl. "Anyone else you're interested in right now, or just the crush on Mako-chan?"
[11:29] <Ami-chan> "Mako-chan makes it hard to think of anyone else." Ami hedges, not untruthfully.
[11:31] * Usagi-chan grins. "That doesn't answer my question though," Usagi replies.
[11:32] <Ami-chan> Ami blushes. "It took me a long time to figure out how I felt about Mako-chan." Ami explains shyly. "So... there isn't a real answer." she sighs.
[11:35] * Usagi-chan nods. "Well, if you do get interested in someone else, let me know. Yes, it's nosy, but I like hearing about how you're doing - and I'm glad to hear that you're finally interested in other people," Usagi says with a smile. "For a while there I was worried that you were going to stay in love with textbooks your whole life."
[11:38] <Ami-chan> "Textbooks are easier to understand." Ami replies softly, and for the first time, a touch of sourness comes into her voice.
[11:40] <Usagi-chan> "Ami-chan?" Usagi raises her head, giving Ami a slightly worried look.
[11:42] * Ami-chan shakes her head, smiling tiredly. "No, I'm sorry. It's nothing."
[11:43] <Usagi-chan> "Didn't sound like nothing," Usagi says rather dubiously. "Is something about this upsetting you?"
[11:53] * Ami-chan shakes her head, sighing. "It's really nothing, Usagi."
[11:54] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "If it's worrying you it isn't nothing... but if you don't want to talk to me about it, I won't push," she says, sounding a bit disappointed.
[12:00] <Ami-chan> "It's just me being silly." Ami replies quickly. "Really."
[12:01] <Usagi-chan> "There's nothing wrong with that," Usagi replies. "Heck, everyone gets a little silly when it comes to love - I almost wonder if it's a part of the package."
[12:03] <Ami-chan> "Probably." Ami sighs softly. "Nothing seems logical about it..."
[12:04] * Usagi-chan nods. "That's for sure... you sure you don't want to talk about it? I might not be able to help you figure out what to do, but at the very least I can listen." Usagi turns towards Ami, straddling the back of her chair and resting her arms on the backrest.
[12:13] <Ami-chan> "It just wish my feelings wouldn't run away from me, that's all." Ami admits, after a long moment.
[12:15] <Usagi-chan> "Having a hard time letting go of Mako-chan?" Usagi asks quietly, her mind leaping to the conclusion.
[12:37] <Ami-chan> Ami winces, and nods silently.
[12:42] * Usagi-chan nods understandingly. "It's hard to let go of someone you love, but I think you've already taken the first step - you've gotten it out in the open. It'll probably get easier from here, I think." She gives Ami a gentle smile.
[12:43] * Ami-chan sighs. "Hopefully. I thought I'd dealt with it already." she finishes miserably.
[12:45] * Usagi-chan reaches across to rest a hand on Ami's shoulder. "It'll be okay, Ami-chan. I know it's got to be hard, but you can always come and talk if it's getting you down."
[12:51] * Ami-chan smiles softly. "Thank you." she murmurs warmly. "I'll keep it in mind."
[12:52] * Usagi-chan pats the other girl on the shoulder gently. "Hey, I know! Are you busy tonight?" she says, perking up visibly.
[12:56] * Ami-chan blinks. "Tonight? Uhm, what time?" she asks, smiling a little nervously. "I have an appointment in the early evening, but afterward, I'm free."
[12:57] <Usagi-chan> "Oh... well, Chibi Usa wanted to go out to the movies tonight, and I was just wondering if you'd like to join us." Usagi smiles. "Might help you get your mind off things for a while."
[13:00] <Ami-chan> "Around seven?" Ami guesses, deciding she can cancel just once.
[13:02] <Usagi-chan> "Sure, I just need to be home about six to get ready." Usagi nods. "We can head out around seven or so."
[13:03] * Ami-chan smiles a little, excited in spite of herself. "It's been a while since I've just gone out..."
[13:04] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit brighter herself, glad to see Ami's mood improving so much. "It'll be good for you - we can make it a fun night out for all three of us."
[13:10] * Ami-chan nods, her mood feeding off of the blonde's, letting her forget about the issues she's been dwelling on lately. "Uh-huh." She grins at Usagi. "Thank you..."
[13:11] <Usagi-chan> "Sure, no problem!" Usagi says cheerily. "I bet Chibi Usa will enjoy having you come along, too - she was kind of disappointed that I couldn't make it last night, but I promised her I'd go today."
[13:24] * Ami-chan nods, smiling a little. "Mother-daughter time?" she asks curiously.
[13:26] * Usagi-chan nods. "I really hated to disappoint her like that, but I had to go to that meeting with Rei's dad last night." She shakes her head. "I'd rather have been at the movies, honestly."
[13:26] * Ami-chan nods. "I can't blame you." She admits. "How did that go, by the way?"
[13:28] * Usagi-chan sighs. "A lot better than the meeting on Sunday did, that's for sure. We gave him some information about what we've done up to now, but nothing about our identities. He won't risk Rei's identity getting out from himself, from what he told Rei a while back, so I think we can trust him that far at least. Past that? I don't know yet."
[13:29] * Ami-chan nods. "But you're happier with the way this turned out?" she presses gently.
[13:32] * Usagi-chan nods. "I think we'll be safe for now. I made him give me his word that he'd tell us if anything went against us with his council, so if things do go sour we'll have fair warning. But I'm hoping it doesn't come to that."
[13:35] * Ami-chan nods. "He does seem to be attempting to deal fairly with us." she observes quietly.
[13:37] <Usagi-chan> "I just wish I knew what he was thinking," Usagi says with a sigh. Shaking her head, she stands up. "Anyway, there's no use in worrying about that now. You want to come over and hang out at my place until we're ready to hit the movies?"
[13:37] * Ami-chan thinks for a minute, then nods, smiling shyly. "I have to make a call when we get there, but... that sounds like fun."
[13:38] * Usagi-chan smiles, grabbing her bookbag. "What are we waiting for then? Let's get going!"
[13:39] * Ami-chan giggles, grabbing her things and putting them inside her bag as well, her cheeks just slightly pink. "Right behind you."
[10:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[10:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> Together after another strenous, hard day of classes, Usagi, Ami, Makoto, Rei head to the Osa P. On arriving, you find Naru and her mother there, a small section with some seats and a few cases of jewelry set aside already. "Usagi-chan," Naru smiles and waves, her Juuban school uniform unchanged even though most of yours are.
[10:12] * Usagi-chan smiles. "Hey, Naru-chan!" she says, waving to the redhead.
[10:14] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Rei-chan, Mako-chan, Ami-chan," Naru waves a bit more, smiling largely. "Come on over - we have some really nice stuff already!"
[10:17] <Rei-chan> "Hi, Naru-chan," Rei smiles, walking over. "Let's have a look, then."
[10:18] * Makoto also gives a greeting as she moves closer to the jewelry that Naru-chan was speaking of.
[10:18] * Ami-chan smiles a little and nods, following the lead of the others as she moves toward the counter. "It's really nice of you to do this..." she adds.
[10:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> "It's no problem," Naru's mother smiles. "After all, any of the other ladies that see you in such nice jewelry will want to buy some of it from here, so it's free advertising."
[10:19] * Ami-chan giggles a little and nods, examining the selection.
[10:20] <Rei-chan> "Impressive business sense," Rei nods approvingly to Naru's mother.
[10:20] <Sailor_Anastasia> Glittering rings, necklaces, chokers, earrings... all are laid out over several cases on this table, each piece quite high value in general.
[10:20] * Usagi-chan glances over the assembled pieces, rather impressed at the expensive selection on display. "Is it really okay for us to borrow this stuff?"
[10:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> "It's fine, Usagi-chan," Naru smiles, a nice emerald ring on her hand. "I'm going to be wearing this tomorrow, isn't it pretty?"
[10:22] <Makoto> "... ooooh," Makoto states as her eyes latch onto the emerald ring.
[10:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yes, look and help yourselves. Just return it a day or two afterwards," Naru's mom nods to Naru, then goes off. "I have other customers, but let me know if you need anything, Naru-chan."
[10:23] <Rei-chan> "Have to be extra careful..." Rei murmurs to herself, perusing the selection.
[10:23] * Usagi-chan smiles. "It looks good on you, Naru-chan." Turning her attention back to the jewelry cases, she moves down to the case on the far end, containing a selection of diamonds and pearls.
[10:24] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Isn't it just wonderful and cute, Makoto?" Naru gushes, staring at the ring on her hand. "I hope my boyfriend gives me a ring like this, someday."
[10:26] <Usagi-chan> "Oh wow, that one's beautiful..." Usagi leans over, looking at a diamond tennis bracelet, set with alternating teardrop-shaped stones.
[10:26] * Rei-chan looks up and joins Makoto and Naru. "That does look nice," she says, peering intently at the ring. "You'll have to find a rich boyfriend, though."
[10:26] * Ami-chan ponders the selection as she examines the shining gems, cautiously picking up a few and examining them idly, waiting for her eye to be drawn somewhere.
[10:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> Glancing over now as she walks away, "Oh wait. That reminds me, the piece you wanted for Usagi is behind the counter, third drawer," she calls, leaving again.
[10:27] * Usagi-chan looks up at Naru. "You had something picked out for me?"
[10:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> Taking off the ring, Naru hands it to Makoto. "Why don't you see how you like it," she says with a giggle, "Yeah, Usagi. I'll be right back with it!" So saying, she heads to a counter, rustling below for something.
[10:29] <Makoto> "Thanks!" Makoto says with a smile as she slips the ring on while joining Ami. "Hey Ami, what do you think?"
[10:29] <Rei-chan> As Makoto walks off Rei gets back to looking for something herself.
[10:30] * Ami-chan blinks and looks over, eyeing the stone. "It's beautiful..." she smiles. "It goes well with your eyes."
[10:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> Moments later, Naru emerges with a grey soft jewelry ring box, while Rei notes a pleasantly fiery diamond and ruby ring, the diamonds gleaming red thanks to the rubies clustered around the diamond mainpiece.
[10:31] <Rei-chan> "Oooh," Rei breathes, picking up said ring and marvelling at the intricate play of light in the various stones. Slipping it on, she holds up her hand for inspection, making approving noises.
[10:32] <Usagi-chan> "Rei-chan, I love it!" Usagi says, catching sight of the ring as the miko holds it up.
[10:32] <Rei-chan> "It is really nice, isn't it?" Rei asks, smiling. "Wish I could buy it, but just having it for a little while will have to do."
[10:33] * Usagi-chan nods, smiling wryly as she heads over to meet Naru. "Yeah, I expect everything here is WAY out of our price range." Turning to the redhead, she gives her old friend a curious look. "What do you have, Naru-chan?"
[10:34] <Makoto> "Yeah, too bad Naru-chan said she'd be wearing this one," Makoto muses. "I'll look for another one. C'mon, let's look for one for you too, Ami-chan!"
[10:34] * Ami-chan blinks and smiles slightly. "Uhm. Alright..."
[10:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I know you like that Moon pendant of yours," she begins, "So I thought you'd like this." Opening the box she holds in her hand, you see a diamond cluster ring, arrainged so that the pure white stones form a right side up crescent moon. "I think that moon shape is really cute, Usagi-chan."
[10:36] * Usagi-chan smiles as she pulls the ring out of the box, placing on her finger. "Yeah, I like the Moon a lot," she says with a small grin, thinking how true that really is.
[10:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> Naru nods once, smiling. "So, Usagi-chan. Going to bring someone special with you?" the girl winks. "It's no fun to go to these alone... I'm at least going with my Mom now."
[10:38] * Usagi-chan blushes a bit. "I'll be with someone, yes," she says, not meeting Naru's eyes.
[10:38] <Rei-chan> Rei's ears turn slightly red as she keeps her head down, examining the contents of one display case.
[10:39] <Sailor_Anastasia> At that, Naru turns to Ami and Makoto. "Find anything yet, you two?"
[10:40] * Rei-chan glances over at Ami and Makoto, smiling a bit at seeing the two interacting without any awkwardness after recent events.
[10:40] * Ami-chan pauses as she comes across a coil bracelet, silver molded in the shape of a serpent, with sapphires set in the eyes. "This is nice..." she says thoughtfully.
[10:41] <Makoto> "Apparently," Makoto replies as Ami-chan focuses on a bracelet. "C'mon! Let's see how it looks on you, Ami-chan."
[10:42] * Ami-chan blushes a little. "I think it's supposed to go around the bicep, Mako-chan." She demurs, gesturing at her long-sleeved blouse.
[10:43] * Usagi-chan quickly turns her attention back to the jewelry case while Naru is occupied with the other two girls.
[10:43] * Makoto waves her statement off. "We can still get an idea putting it around your sleeve, can't we?
[10:43] * Rei-chan goes over to rejoin Usagi, taking in her crescent moon ring. "Suits you really well," she notes, grinning as she glances at the blonde's braid over her forehead.
[10:44] * Usagi-chan looks up at Rei. "You think so? I do like it a lot, and yeah, I guess it does fit," she says, noting Rei's significant glance towards the concealed mark on her forehead.
[10:44] <Ami-chan> Curiosity gets the better of her and Ami smiles up at the brunette. "I guess so." she agrees, and slips it up her arm, past her elbow, where it stops smoothly and snugly.
[10:46] <Makoto> "Looks nice," Makoto says with a smile.
[10:47] <Rei-chan> "Let's see what else we can find," Rei says, looking over the same display case as Usagi. "Oh," she picks up a pair of elegant pearl earrings. "These'd look good on you," she notes, holding them up for the blonde's inspection.
[10:47] * Ami-chan smiles back, and nods. "I -do- like it..." she admits. "Did you find another emerald ring?"
[10:49] * Usagi-chan takes the earrings from Rei, examining them. "You think so? I figured I'd wear my bell earrings for this," the blonde replies.
[10:50] <Rei-chan> "Oh, yeah," Rei nods, a thoughtful expression on her face as she looks at Usagi. "Hmm... those probably are better, yeah."
[10:51] * Makoto shakes her head at that. "No, not yet. Not one that I liked as much as this one anyho..." Makoto pauses at that as she spies an emerald ring with thin interbranching dark metal bands, and a medium sized emerald interlocked on the top.
[10:51] <Makoto> Taking off the ring she borrowed from Naru, she tries the new ring on.
[10:52] <Usagi-chan> "What about you?" Usagi asks Rei. "Decided on earrings for yourself yet?"
[10:53] * Ami-chan smiles as she watches Makoto try on the ring. "The detail is... remarkable." she murmurs, impressed.
[10:53] <Rei-chan> "I do have some nice ones at home, but I'd like to try something new, since it is free..." Rei replies, looking around.
[10:54] * Usagi-chan glances around for a moment. "What dress are you planning to wear?"
[10:55] <Rei-chan> "That nice black one," Rei begins before lowering her voice a bit, "That I wore on our first date." She returns to normal volume. "Haven't had many other chances to wear it, really."
[10:56] * Makoto nods at Ami, before she starts looking for a matching necklace.
[10:56] * Usagi-chan nods knowingly, remembering the dress in question. "Hmm..." She looks thoughtful as she browses through the jewelry cases.
[10:57] <Rei-chan> "What about yourself?" Rei asks, idly picking up a pair of understated ruby earrings and giving them an evaluating look.
[10:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Those aren't bad, Rei-chan," Naru speaks up, having been distracted by a nice brooch she's planning on wearing now. "Those aren't bad at all."
[10:58] * Ami-chan slips off the bracelet, but holds onto it for now, eyeing the other jewelry curiously.
[10:58] <Usagi-chan> "I'm thinking about a white evening gown - nothing too fancy," Usagi replies. 'Probably use the pen for it,' she sends to the miko mentally. 'It'll let me skip my braid for a while, too.'
[10:59] * Rei-chan turns to Naru. "I like them - they're not too flashy, but do look good if you really take a look," she nods approvingly. 'That'll be nice,' she responds to Usagi.
[11:00] * Usagi-chan holds up a pair of teardrop-shaped amethyst earrings, their color unusually vivid. "What about these, Rei-chan? I bet they'd really bring out your eyes."
[11:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> As you whirl around the jewelry section, Makoto notes that Naru's mother is having something of a debate with another pair of customers just on the corner of your vision. Naru's mom doesn't look amused, and you can't quite see the other two.
[11:01] <Rei-chan> "Hmm..." Rei has a brief mental debate. "Let me see," she takes an earring from Usagi and holds both an amethyst and a ruby one up to her ears, looking in a nearby mirror as she tries to decide.
[11:04] * Makoto shrugs, deciding it's not her business what's going on, and Naru's mom should be able to handle unruly customers. 'Wonder if they're trying to lower the price or something...' she thinks as she continues browsing about.
[11:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I still like the ruby ones," Naru nods to Rei, eyeing both as she alternates between the two.
[11:05] * Usagi-chan glances up, looking over at Mrs. Osaka after a moment with a slight frown.
[11:05] * Rei-chan looks torn. "They're both really nice..." she takes them away from her ear and stares at them, trying to decide.
[11:07] <Rei-chan> After a moment, Rei nods decisively. "Amethyst it is," she settles on it, carefully returning the ruby ones to their case.
[11:10] <Usagi-chan> Usagi's frown deepens a bit, and she begins to move away from the display cases towards where Naru's mother is.
[11:10] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nodding, "Those still look nice, Rei-chan," Naru says, glancing back over at Ami and Makoto.
[11:11] <Rei-chan> "I think these and this ring will be enough for me," Rei nods, also looking over to see how Ami and Makoto are doing.
[11:12] * Makoto raises a necklace at that point, made of a very thin gold band of chains, with a metallic dolphin encrusting a sapphire gem between it and the band, acting like a backdrop of the sea. "Hey Ami, look at this!"
[11:14] * Ami-chan hums thoughtfully to herself, and looks up. "Hm?" She asks, her eyes widening a litte as she sees the necklace Makoto is holding. "Wow..."
[11:15] * Rei-chan approaches the pair. "That'd look great on you, Ami-chan!" she enthuses.
[11:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> Naru nods as well, echoing the sentiment. "It would look so pretty with your eyes, Ami-chan."
[11:18] * Ami-chan smiles a little self-consciously, examining the necklace with anticiaption. "It's gorgeous..." she agrees.
[11:24] <Rei-chan> "Try it on," Rei encourages the blue-haired genius.
[11:26] * Ami-chan blushes and nods, tentatively accepting the necklace from Makoto and slipping it over her head...
[11:30] <Makoto> "It looks really good, Ami-chan. Naru was right about it matching your eyes," Makoto says with a smile.
[11:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> Naru smiles. "It is. You should wear it for sure, Ami-chan!"
[11:30] * Rei-chan nods her agreement.
[11:31] * Ami-chan blushes deeper, nodding. "Thank you. I think I will." she replies quietly, pleased.
[11:32] * Rei-chan looks around, wondering where Usagi's gotten to.
[11:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> Rei - You see Usagi and Naru's mom near the door, just as it closes and you see the very tail end of two customers leaving.
[11:38] <Sailor_Anastasia> Watching further, you see her glance back at Naru, looking a bit worried.
[11:38] * Rei-chan glances at Naru herself, wondering what's going on.
[11:38] * Usagi-chan raises her hands in a gesture of reassurance.
[11:38] <Sailor_Anastasia> Naru shakes her head as her mother turns back to Usagi.
[11:39] <Sailor_Anastasia> A moment later, Naru's mom goes off to another customer, leaving Usagi.
[11:40] * Usagi-chan returns to the group as she leaves, looking none too happy.
[11:40] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Is something the matter, Usagi-chan?" Naru asks, wondering about that exchange between her mother and her friend.
[11:40] <Rei-chan> "What's wrong, Usagi?" Rei asks, also curious.
[11:41] * Ami-chan nods in agreement, the situation catching her attention as well.
[11:41] <Usagi-chan> "Eiko," Usagi practically spits, scowling deeply. "Causing trouble as usual."
[11:41] <Rei-chan> "Ugh," Rei grimaces. "Had almost forgotten about her."
[11:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Didn't you mention that cousin of yours... what did she do, Usagi-chan? Did she trouble Mom?" Naru asks, frowning as well.
[11:42] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah, she was in here with her latest boyfriend trying to start trouble," Usagi says with a frown. "I wish she'd just pack up and go home already."
[11:43] * Rei-chan nods, irritated. "I'd hoped after your parents kicked her out we wouldn't have to worry about her again."
[11:44] <Makoto> "Why is she still around anyhow? I would think she'd have gone back home rather than stay near us," Makoto asks, as Usagi explains the problem.
[11:45] * Ami-chan frowns, wondering what kind of person could inspire this much venom from her easygoing friends.
[11:45] <Usagi-chan> "You and me both, Rei-chan," Usagi says, sighing. Turning to Makoto, she explains. "Her mom dumped her off on us, and no one knows where she is now so she CAN'T really go home. We've been trying to get hold of Aunt Chisato for a while now, but apparently she's off on some tour or something."
[11:45] <Rei-chan> "Disappearing on vacation as soon as they got rid of the brat." Rei snorts, "Can hardly blame them, but it's still a rotten thing to do."
[11:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> "No kidding. She's lucky your parents gave her an apartment, Usagi-chan," Naru frets a bit.
[11:46] * Ami-chan snaps her fingers. "That's right... did you still want me to try and locate her mother, Usagi?"
[11:47] <Usagi-chan> "If you could, Ami-chan. I know it kind of got lost with as busy as we've been lately, but if you've got time now that'd be great." Usagi smiles at Ami.
[11:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> At that, "I'll be back in a moment, I want to see if Mom's okay," Naru says, waving. "Go ahead and get some more jewelry!"
[11:48] * Ami-chan nods. "I'll talk to Viluy this afternoon." She promises. "Anything you can give me that might help would be useful, too."
[11:49] * Usagi-chan sighs, figuring the news is about to hit. "All right, we'll see you in a minute." As the redhead leaves, Usagi rests her elbows on the edge of the nearest case, sighing. "She called me a dyke in front of Naru's mom, too," she says once Naru is out of earshot.
[11:51] <Rei-chan> "Such a foul mouthed little bitch," Rei mutters, shaking her head.
[11:52] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah, well... I ended up telling Osaka-san the truth about that, so don't be surprised if Naru comes back looking kind of shocked," Usagi says with a sigh.
[11:52] <Ami-chan> "..." Ami shakes her head slowly.
[11:52] * Rei-chan blinks, but then shrugs. "Not like we've ever really tried to hide it. We just don't advertise it much either."
[11:53] * Usagi-chan nods. "I don't really want to try to hide it either," Usagi admits. "I guess it was really just a matter of time before other people started to find out anyway."
[11:54] <Rei-chan> "We have nothing to be ashamed of," Rei agrees.
[11:55] * Ami-chan nods emphatically to that, but stays quiet.
[11:55] * Usagi-chan nods, turning her head to give the miko a small smile.
[11:56] * Rei-chan returns the smile. "Anyway, I think I've picked up enough jewellery, what about you guys?" she asks everyone else.
[11:57] <Sailor_Anastasia> Talking to her mother on the othe side of the store, you can see Naru holding her hands with concern as the two talk...
[11:57] <Usagi-chan> "I think I'm about set," Usagi agrees, admiring the crescent moon ring on her finger. She glances over at Naru, trying to see if she can overhear any of the two's conversation.
[11:57] <Ami-chan> "I think I have what I need." Ami agrees absently, keeping an eye on the conversation discreetly.
[11:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> As you really try to listen, it ends, Naru's mom going and heading off to upstairs. Naru comes back, a bit weary looking for a moment, but banishing it with a smile. "Okay! Did everyone get what they wanted?"
[11:59] * Usagi-chan smiles hesitantly. "I think so," Usagi says with a nod, keeping a close eye on the redhead.
[11:59] <Rei-chan> "Me too," Rei nods, smiling as she holds up her earrings and ring.
[12:00] * Ami-chan nods and smiles slightly. "Same here."
[12:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I'll go ahead and write it all down in the book, so c'mon when you're ready." With that, Naru goes over to one of the counters, getting out a black notebook.
[12:00] * Rei-chan heads over with Naru to record her borrowed items.
[12:01] * Usagi-chan files over behind Ami and Makoto, figuring she'll wait until last to speak with Naru - if she wants to.
[12:01] * Ami-chan makes sure she still has the serpent bracelet, and follows Rei, removing her temporary necklace as she goes.
[12:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nothing off Rei, Mako and Ami's borrows quickly enough, it's Usagi's turn. Giving you a slightly shaky and perhaps hurt smile, "The ring, Usagi-chan?"
[12:03] * Usagi-chan nods, deflating a bit. "Just the ring, Naru-chan," she agrees.
[12:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> Noting it, "Usagi-chan, why don't you stay for dinner? We haven't gotten to talk in awhile."
[12:05] * Usagi-chan nods. "I'll just need to call home and let Mom know I won't be home for dinner."
[12:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> "The phone's still in back, Usagi-chan," Naru replies, waving to the other girls.
[12:07] <Rei-chan> "Bye, you two," Rei waves cheerily, her expression becoming a bit less cheery as she turns away. 'Good luck, Usagi,' she thinks as she departs.
[12:07] * Usagi-chan waves to the other senshi as well. 'I'll see you guys later,' she thinks to the group as she heads for the phone. 'Thanks, Rei-chan,' she thinks to the miko.
[12:08] * Usagi-chan returns to the store floor a few moments later, her dinner plans having been cleared with her mother.
[12:09] <Sailor_Anastasia> "We're closing early today, anyway," Naru says as you come back, heading outside to flip the CLOSED sign over. "Go ahead and go up, I'll be there as soon as I finish the logbook."
[12:10] <Usagi-chan> "All right," Usagi agrees, heading up to the apartment over the store.
[12:11] <Sailor_Anastasia> Upstairs, you can hear Naru's mom in the kitchen. "Oh, Naru-chan," she calls. "We'll have dinner in a few and talk, okay dear?"
[12:11] <Usagi-chan> "It's Usagi, Osaka-san," Usagi calls back. "Naru invited me to stay for dinner."
[12:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> "... Oh, Usagi," she says, her voice going from nice and kind to more neutral. "Have a seat in the living room, dinner will be ready in ten minutes. We're having simple rice and soup."
[12:12] <Usagi-chan> "Thank you," Usagi says politely, going to do as requested.
[12:14] <Sailor_Anastasia> A minute passes as you do this, relaxing in Naru's reasonably nice living room. The couch is as comfortable as you remember, the sounds of Naru's mom working in the kitchen rather easy and homelike. Perhaps five minutes into this, Naru comes up. After calling 'I'm home,' to her Mom, she joins you in the living room. "Hey, Usagi," she smiles the tiniest bit.
[12:15] <Usagi-chan> "Hi, Naru-chan," Usagi says, returning the smile somewhat hesitantly. "I... guess your mom told you?"
[12:16] <Sailor_Anastasia> Just nodding simply, "Yeah." Naru sighs deeply at that, sounding hurt even in that. "Why didn't you just tell me, Usagi-chan?"
[12:17] * Usagi-chan sighs. "There wasn't any good time," Usagi explains. "It... I didn't start thinking that way until just a week before I left to start at Mugen, and I haven't seen you that often since then."
[12:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Then what about just after Christmas and that friend of yours," Naru asks back quietly. "I remember that, Usagi."
[12:19] <Usagi-chan> "I do too," Usagi agrees. "When you asked me then, it wasn't true. I had a boyfriend at the time, but things didn't work out between us. It wasn't until back in March that I fell in love again."
[12:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> "What about all the hints I dropped, Usagi-chan? I know that, but... I kept telling you could tell me..." Naru turns away a bit. "It started with your new friends... then a new school... a new girlfriend, even... couldn't you at least tell me if you were going to cut me out of your life like this, Usagi?" Naru sniffles a bit, rubbing an eye with the back of her hand.
[12:22] <Usagi-chan> "Naru-chan, I..." Usagi lowers her head, staring down at her knees. "It wasn't something I'd ever meant to happen, and I still wish it hadn't," she protests. "It's just... things changed for me, and the next thing I knew we were moving apart - and I didn't want that any more than you did."
[12:24] <Sailor_Anastasia> "No... but I kept trying, but you were never there," Naru sniffles again, looking up at you, tears starting in her eyes. "I've called so many times to try and do something with you, but you're almost never there. 'Usagi's still at school', or 'Usagi's with her friends' or 'Usagi's just not here'."
[12:25] * Usagi-chan sighs, wondering how many times she's been out on senshi business or other such matters when Naru might have called. "Naru... I know it's not enough, but I really am sorry. I miss having you as a friend too - getting to share all the school gossip, or going out shopping together, all the stuff we used to be able to do."
[12:27] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I do, too, Usagi-chan," Naru comments amid a swelling surge of tears. "I miss going to the Crown and looking at Motoki, or studying for Miss H's next test, or just doing things."
[12:30] * Usagi-chan closes her eyes, remembering the life she used to lead before Luna had showed up - no responsibilities other than deciding where to hang out after school and how to break the news of her latest failed test to her mom. Through moist eyes she looks up at Naru. "Sometimes I wish things could go back to the way they were - I never wanted to get tied up in other things, but I couldn't get out of them," Usagi says.
[12:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> Wiping away a gentle tear that is working it's way down her cheek, "You could have at least told me that, Usagi. You could have..."
[12:33] * Usagi-chan 's shoulders sag, the blonde feeling the weight of the lost friendship. "I wish I could have told you then," she says quietly. She falls silent for several moments, deep in thought.
[12:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> Naru just continues to try and dry her eyes, despite the still going flow of teardrops. "About... it, Usagi-chan?"
[12:36] * Usagi-chan looks up at Naru slowly. "It?" she asks quietly.
[12:38] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yeah... it," Naru looks at you again, nodding.
[12:38] * Usagi-chan takes a breath. "About Sailor Moon?" she says, still giving Naru a calm look.
[12:43] <Sailor_Anastasia> Naru stops crying, wiping her eyes with her sleeve. "Is... is that it, Usagi? I'd been wondering... you knew a bit too much about Nephrite, and you kept popping up whenever there was trouble..."
[12:46] * Usagi-chan nods slowly, having decided that it's past time to settle the issue with Naru. "Yeah, it is," she says quietly. A small smile quirks across her lips. "I'd been wondering if you might have guessed it - this was the very first place I ever had to come, and it definitely wasn't the last time I've seen you get in trouble."
[12:48] <Sailor_Anastasia> As you speak, Naru closes her eyes tiredly. "Yeah... I remember talking about that with everyone the next day at school, and you were so tired that you couldn't even stay awake."
[12:49] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit. "I'm not surprised... I was so freaked out at having to fight that... that thing, and when I got home I just crashed. I barely even remember BEING at school the day after."
[12:53] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yeah..." Naru murmurs quietly. "Then Ami-chan came along, then I saw you starting to hang out with Rei-chan and later Mako and Mina-chan..."
[12:55] * Usagi-chan nods. "The other senshi... it's not really that hard to figure out who we all are if you know one," she says, thinking of Dietman Hino. "I wanted to tell you so many times, Naru-chan, but I just couldn't."
[12:57] <Sailor_Anastasia> Naru nods. "I understand that, I guess... even though it hurts, Usagi."
[12:57] <Usagi-chan> "It hurt me too, Naru-chan. Usagi says. "I had to keep an entire part of my life secret from you, even though I knew it was driving us apart - and there wasn't anything I could do about it." Tears well up in Usagi's eyes at that.
[13:01] <Sailor_Anastasia> Sniffling yet again and not really caring that her sleeve is getting rather wet and nasty, "Yeah, Usagi... why couldn't you tell me, though?"
[13:03] * Usagi-chan closes her eyes, wiping away her tears with the back of her finger. "Because it would have put both of us in a lot of danger. If you knew, you'd be at risk of people trying to find out who I was through you... I think you know what I'm talking about."
[13:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yeah... I'd have told Nephrite who you were..." she agrees, her eyes getting red as she rubs them again.
[13:06] * Usagi-chan nods. "He asked you even when you DIDN'T know... and some of the other people we've had to deal with wouldn't have bothered with just asking," Usagi says quietly, looking at her folded hands in her lap. "It was just better that you didn't know, for your sake and mine."
[13:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yeah..." Is Naru's only reply, still subdued.
[13:12] <Usagi-chan> "Every time I thought about telling you after that, something else always came up - another enemy, or other things that stole my attention, and then I was at Mugen and I barely ever saw you anymore." Usagi sighs. "I'm sorry it took me so long to tell you."
[13:16] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yeah..." Naru murmurs again, wiping her eyes. "We just... ended up apart from that. You've taken Miss H and Umino with you, too."
[13:17] <Usagi-chan> "It wasn't something I meant to happen," Usagi says somewhat plaintively. "We helped the Professor find his daughter and he gave us all scholarships - Mom practically insisted that I go."
[13:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> Naru looks up a bit at that, curious. "The Professor?"
[13:22] * Usagi-chan nods. "Professor Tomoe - he's the headmaster at Mugen. He was... in some trouble, and the senshi helped him out of it - but in the process he found out all our identities."
[13:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Oh, okay," Naru says, shaking her head. 'Usagi's principal even found out before me...'
[13:27] <Usagi-chan> "I hope you're not too upset with me for keeping it from you for so long... it really wasn't something I meant to go on this long." Usagi says, looking at Naru hopefully.
[13:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I am, Usagi," Naru says softly. "It hurts... it hurts a lot..." Another silent sniffle as Naru seems to fall into herself, tears starting again. "Even with... all of that,it still hurts."
[13:31] * Usagi-chan lowers her head, drooping visibly. "I'm sorry, Naru-chan," she says quietly, tears springing to her eyes once again. "I don't know what else I can say."
[13:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I... I forgive you, Usagi-chan," Naru finally says amid her own tears. "It just hurts, though..."
[13:36] <Usagi-chan> "Thank you," Usagi says in a broken voice, sniffling a bit herself. "I'm... I'm just glad I finally told you."
[13:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> "So am I, Usagi..." Naru agrees, trying to compose herself.
[13:44] <Usagi-chan> "Just don't let anyone else know, okay?" Usagi asks. "I mean, you can tell your mom if you want, but we really don't want all the attention we'd get if a lot of people found out." She sighs a bit. "We've already got problems with that after that stupid news footage."
[13:50] <Sailor_Anastasia> Naru just nods. "I promise, Usagi."
[11:47] * Usagi-chan smiles, looking relieved. "Thanks, Naru-chan," the blonde replies. "I just hope this doesn't go a lot further - not that you'd tell anyone, but it seems like there are a lot of people curious about us right now."
[11:52] <Anastasia> "Yeah, you were right with that story on the news. It's what everyone at school has been talking about again, Usagi-chan."
[11:53] * Usagi-chan nods. "I've already met one of them - there's a girl from Juuban that actually wants to join the senshi." She shakes her head slightly at that. "Definitely not something I'D have chosen to do if I had the option."
[11:55] <Anastasia> "Who's that, Usagi?" Naru asks, vaguely curious at who would want to.
[11:57] <Usagi-chan> "I don't remember her last name, but her name's Natsume," Usagi replies. "Ann Grainger is the one that 'introduced' her to me," she says, snorting at the reason why she was forced to meet the kendoist.
[12:00] <Anastasia> "That exchange student? How'd she know about Sailor Moon?" Naru asks, confused and curious.
[12:01] * Usagi-chan sighs. "Long story - I have a feeling there are going to be more than a few of those to come out tonight. You remember all the cases of 'Juuban sickness' that were popping up back in March?"
[12:02] <Anastasia> "Yeah, I was in the hospital for a few days," Naru nods. "Really nasty."
[12:04] * Usagi-chan frowns. "I remember - I was the one that took you, remember?" She pauses for a moment before continuing. "Ann and her brother Alan were the ones behind those attacks - they're perfectly willing to be peaceful now, but back then they thought they had to drain energy from people to live."
[12:09] <Anastasia> "So... those two were..." Naru shivers a bit. "Why?"
[12:10] <Usagi-chan> "Like I said, they thought they had to drain other people's energy to survive - that's what 'Juuban sickness' really is," Usagi explains. "They've found out since then that it isn't true, and they've been living here peacefully ever since. They're not going to cause any more trouble like that."
[12:19] <Anastasia> "Good," Naru says, before thinking a moment. "It's nice that they didn't have to do that anymore..."
[12:21] * Usagi-chan nods, smiling a bit. "I'm glad I was able to help them. And they're helping me out in a few ways now, too, which makes life a little easier for all of us."
[12:22] <Anastasia> Mulling on that, "How do they help you, Usagi-chan?"
[12:24] <Usagi-chan> "Well, for one they keep an eye out for any kind of dangers - having more people around that can do that is always helpful. They help in a couple of other ways, too, but it's up to you if you want to hear about that - I won't keep it a secret from you, but I'll warn you that you probably wouldn't believe me if I did tell you." Usagi replies.
[12:27] <Anastasia> "Why don't you tell me later, then," Naru finally comments. "This is a lot... how much of your life do I not know about, Usagi-chan?"
[12:28] * Usagi-chan sighs. "At this point, more than you do know," Usagi admits. "Things have changed for me way more than I ever expected them to, and I never would have imagined how fast it's happened."

[10:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[10:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> The day has arrived, as the girls gather at Usagi's house around noon to dress and chat before the big event. It starts at 3 PM at a rented hall, and is formal. One by one the various Senshi arrive...
[11:03] <Rei-chan> At Usagi's house, Rei gets changed into her dress, a long black satin affair that reaches down to her ankles, slit up to her right thigh. The fabric is smooth and silky - although coming well above her chest, it clings to her body and accents her curves. "Hardly ever get a chance to wear this," the raven-haired girl says, giving her reflection an approving look in the mirror in Usagi's room.
[11:06] * Usagi-chan gives Rei just as approving a look, clad herself in a form-fitting, strapless white satin evening gown with a slit up the leg to match Rei's. "You look absolutely beautiful, Rei-chan," she says with a smile, her silver bell earrings chiming softly as she moves around Rei to get a better look at the miko from all sides.
[11:07] <Rei-chan> "Likewise," Rei smiles, putting an arm around Usagi's waist and drawing her close so they're both seen in the mirror. "We'll knock 'em dead, tonight!"
[11:08] <Usagi-chan> "Darn right we will!" Usagi says with a grin, leaning up to give Rei a peck on the cheek.
[11:14] <Prince_Herb> Across town, Herb waits on Ann to decide which little black Gucci dress is the one she wants to wear today. It looks like it's going to be a while before he gets to Usagi's place.
[11:19] * Haruka gives one last peek down at her black suit before stepping out of her car. Over a white, long-sleeved dress shirt is a vest, which Haruka straightens out before putting on her coat. She makes her way to Usagi's door and knocks, curious (and hopeful?) to see how the others are dressed.
[11:21] * Makoto finishes tying a bowtie around Alan's neck, before looking at him appreciatively. While black wasn't quite his color, and it was a pretty standard tuxedo, he still looked fairly well. She did wish there was some way to coordinate his appearance with herself, but his idea of color coordination had been a tuxedo with a god-awful really loud green jacket.
[11:21] <Makoto> His red blush was adorable and as flattering as always, even if she did think she cut a mean figure in her dress. A long flowing light green bare-back dress, that was held up by thin spaghetti strips around her shoulders accented the jade necklace she wore, alongside her normal rose earrings. "Alright, I think we're ready to head to Usagi's."
[11:22] <Ami-chan> The bathroom, where Ami had retreated to dress after she'd been let into the house had been suspiciously quiet for some time...
[11:22] * Usagi-chan quickly heads down the stairs to get the door. "Coming!" she calls as she goes, opening the door to reveal Haruka - looking rather dapper in a pair of dress pants and a vest. "Heya, Haruka!" she says cheerfully.
[11:23] <Rei-chan> Exiting Usagi's room with the blonde, Rei gives a suspicious glance across the hallway to the bathroom. "You okay in there, Ami-chan?" she asks, wondering if she's having trouble with her outfit or something.
[11:24] <Ami-chan> "Uhm... fine?" Ami ventures, sighing. "Rei, remind me to have a -long- chat with Artemis, please." she half growls.
[11:25] * Rei-chan starts. "He didn't shed on your dress, did he?" she asks, horrified. White cat hair sure ruins dark clothes.
[11:26] <Haruka> "Hey, Usagi," Haruka returns, giving Usagi's dress a once-over. "Good choice. It matches you well," she comments with a smile. "The earrings are a nice touch," she adds, finally noticing them, with a nod.
[11:26] <Ami-chan> "No..." Ami mutters through the door. "He didn't like the one I had picked out, and switched it."
[11:27] * Rei-chan frowns, thinking of Artemis' belly button exposing suit. The cat really isn't very fashion conscious. "Is it that bad?"
[11:27] <Ami-chan> "It's not... what I would have picked." Ami admits. "But it's a little too late to go back home..."
[11:28] <Usagi-chan> "Thanks... they were a gift from a friend," she says with a rather nostalgic smile. "Long story behind that though. Anyway, come on in - Ami and Rei are both upstairs."
[11:29] * Haruka nods and follows Usagi in.
[11:31] <Rei-chan> "Don't you have a disguise pen, Ami?" Rei asks. "Just use that if your dress is really that bad."
[11:37] <Ami-chan> "I really don't know." Ami admits nervously, and opens the door, revealing Ami Mizuno dressed in a vast departure from her normal formal wear. A sleeveless, knee-length mandarin dress, with a silver crane embossed on the front in mid flight, a slit up the thigh, and a diamond panel cutout over her cleavage. The picture is completed by the silver armlet coiled neatly around her slender bicep and the sapphire necklace framed by the cutout, her hair held back with silver combs.
[11:39] * Rei-chan blinks. "Artemis got that?" she asks in faint disbelief. "I don't see what you're complaining about - it looks great."
[11:39] <Usagi-chan> "I think we're just waiting on Mako-chan and Herb now," Usagi explains to Haruka as she settles into the living room. Heading over to the foot of the stairs, she shouts up to the two still there. "How's it going up there?"
[11:39] * Ami-chan tugs nervously on the hem of the skirt. "You think so?"
[11:40] <Rei-chan> "Down in a minute!" Rei calls back, gesturing for Ami. "Come on, Ami. Everyone's waiting. You've got nothing to worry about, looking like that."
[11:40] * Ami-chan gives Rei a dubious look, but nods slowly. "Right..."
[11:42] <Rei-chan> "Come on, Ami," Rei says, slight exasparation creeping in, "I wouldn't lie." Considering the matter settled, she heads downstairs, spotting the latest arrival. "Hi, Haruka," she smiles, giving a small wave.
[11:43] * Ami-chan follows, still trying to tug the hem of the dress lower, and waves, blushing as she spots the others.
[11:45] * Usagi-chan grins as she spots Ami in the small dress. "You look great, Ami-chan. Glad to see Artemis got it right," she says with a grin.
[11:45] * Makoto suddenly appears in the living room of Usagi, holding onto Alan, as Alan teleports them from her place to Usagi's home. Letting go of Alan she greets the others cheerily. "Hey guys!"
[11:46] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nodding once and eyeing all the girls (and Ami in particular, he seems to like her dress), Alan smiles. "Hey."
[11:46] <Haruka> "Hey there Re--" Haruka skids to a halt in greeting the miko. "Eh... er... Ami?" she asks, her eyes wide as she eyes the dress Ami is wearing.
[11:46] <Rei-chan> "Makoto!" Rei starts at the sudden arrival, before grinning at her friend. "Wow, where'd you get that dress? It looks great on you."
[11:47] * Ami-chan blinks. "You told him to?" she asks, then looks to Haruka, reddening. "Uhm... hi?"
[11:47] * Usagi-chan turns to greet the new arrival. "Heya Mako-chan - wow, that dress really DOES look great on you."
[11:49] * Ami-chan flicks a quick glance at Makoto, then looks away again, getting a 'too much to take in' look on her face...
[11:49] <Makoto> "Thanks," she replies with a faint blush, before giving her once over for their appearances as well. Smiling she adds, "You guys look great too, especially you Ami-chan."
[11:50] * Ami-chan blushes. "Thanks... you too." she murmurs.
[11:50] * Haruka nods with Makoto's sentiments.
[11:52] <Rei-chan> "What about you, Haruka?" Rei turns to the sandy-haired blonde, "Where's your pretty dress?" she demands with an impish smile.
[11:53] * Usagi-chan giggles at that, hoping that Ami's forgotten about her little slip of a few moments before.
[11:55] * Ami-chan blinks suddenly, realizing her question hasn't been answered, and makes a mental note to investigate this later...
[11:55] <Haruka> "Perhaps on... another occasion," Haruka returns at Rei, making a face.
[11:55] * Rei-chan pouts. "I'm sure we'll get to see it, one day."
[11:56] * Haruka smiles back at Rei. "Maybe... or maybe not."
[11:56] <Ami-chan> "If she loses a bet, perhaps?" Ami suggests suddenly.
[11:57] <Usagi-chan> 'As long as Herb doesn't show up in a dress for this, I'll be satisfied,' Usagi thinks to her girlfriend with a wry grin.
[11:57] * Ami-chan eyes Haruka, curious as to what the blonde might look like...
[11:57] * Rei-chan makes a face. 'Yeah... we can hope.'
[11:58] <Haruka> "Yeah, that's one way, I suppose," Haruka replies to Ami, chuckling uneasily at the direction this is heading...
[11:59] * Prince_Herb and Ann appear next, teleporting into the scene just like Alan and Makoto. Herb is impeccably turned out in an Ozwald Boateng tuxedo, and Ann in a classic little black Gucci dress that just oozes sex appeal. They make a handsome couple.
[11:59] * Ami-chan simply smiles, and lets it drop, filing that away for later...
[11:59] <Makoto> "So Haruka, want to make any bets right now?" Makoto pipes up with a grin at that.
[12:00] <Prince_Herb> "Hello, your majesty, princesses, Alan," Herb says, "are we on time?"
[12:00] <Haruka> "Depends on the bet, I guess," Haruka says to Makoto with a shrug.
[12:01] <Rei-chan> "Hi Ann, Herb," Rei turns to the new arrivals. 'No dress, thank God. This time.'
[12:01] <Usagi-chan> "Close enough," Usagi replies to Herb, checking the clock. 'Yeah,' Usagi replies.
[12:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nodding to all there, Ann smiles. "Hey, Usagi. Did you invite either of your students to this?"
[12:03] * Makoto pouts a bit at the lack of reaction. Ah well, they had an event to attend to right now, so maybe later.
[12:03] * Usagi-chan gives Ann a wry grin. "Chibi Usa's a little young for this, so she's spending the day out with Mom. And I don't really know Natsume well enough to invite her yet."
[12:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yeah, but Natsume is already excited about your lessons," Ann replies. "And she's certainly able to take enough of a beating to keep up with you."
[12:04] <Usagi-chan> "I know she is... and I'd better not hear about any more beatings, Miss Grainger," Usagi says, shaking a finger at the elf girl.
[12:06] <Makoto> "Excuse me," Makoto suddenly asks, curiosity getting the best of her. "Who's Natsume, Usagi-chan?"
[12:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> Chuckling, "Relax. She survived a good shot from me, so I'd have to make an effort to really hurt her."
[12:07] <Usagi-chan> "Natsume's someone from Juuban, Mako-chan," Usagi replies. "She's been sparring with Ann or something, and after she got hurt last weekend I patched her up. She's got a lot of magical potential, and she's interested in becoming a senshi, so I thought I'd keep an eye on her."
[12:07] * Rei-chan shakes her head. "Beating up on defenceless schoolgirls, Ann?" she jokingly remonstrates the elf-girl.
[12:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> "She's bullheaded and determined enough to try it on a monster, so better me than one of those," Ann jokes back, amused.
[12:09] <Rei-chan> "I guess that is true," Rei smirks.
[12:09] * Makoto blinks. "She's in Juuban? What class is she in?" Makoto asks, not recalling any Natsumes.
[12:09] * Usagi-chan frowns. "Just try not to break any ribs the next time, okay? Just because she CAN take a hit from you doesn't mean she needs to get beaten black-and-blue."
[12:11] * Ami-chan listens to the conversation curiously, wondering what 'Natsume' must be like to garner that kind of attention from Ann...
[12:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> "She's in my new class, the captain of the kendo club," Ann shrugs. "Alright, I'll just bloody her nose a bit next time," Ann grumbles mockingly. "She'll live. Really."
[12:13] <Prince_Herb> 'The life of a martial artist is fraught with peril,' Herb thinks.
[12:13] * Makoto winces and makes a note to keep an eye on this Natsume and keep Ann from doing anything... permanent.
[12:14] <Sailor_Anastasia> "And hey, at least it keeps that crew up on the roof busy." she replies. Of note to Makoto is that the repair crew has been patching up unexplained craters on the roof lately...
[12:14] <Usagi-chan> "She'd better or I'm taking it out of you the next time something happens," Usagi says with a frown. "Just be careful, okay? She doesn't know how far in over her head she is."
[12:14] * Haruka shakes her head, but can't keep the smirk off her face at Ann's crack.
[12:16] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Alright, alright. I got it. She won't get too badly beaten, I promise." Ann concedes, still visibly amused.
[12:17] * Usagi-chan shakes her head and sighs, letting the matter drop.
[12:18] <Rei-chan> "Anyway," Rei speaks up to get everyone's attention, "Now that we're all here, should we get going?"
[12:19] <Usagi-chan> "It IS just about time for us to take off, yeah," Usagi agrees. "Anyone need to make any last-minute touches before we go?"
[12:20] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I'm just ready to go and hope they have a good buffet," Alan says. "Makoto didn't make a big lunch."
[12:21] * Ami-chan frowns. 'About three more layers of clothes...' she muses inwardly, then shakes her head, "I'm ready." She says simply.
[12:21] * Makoto rolls her eyes at Alan. "I made it big enough. They'll have food there though, I promise."
[12:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> "You only made three bowls of noodles," he protests, bantering back.
[12:23] <Usagi-chan> 'You look fine, Ami-chan,' Usagi mentally reassures her friend. "All right then, let's get going!" Grabbing a small handbag, she leads the way out of the house.
[12:24] <Sailor_Anastasia> Having arranged a few people to drive the group to the hall - a nice place, decorated with gardens around it, the main party branching between a ballroom and an outside plaza filled with flowers.
[12:25] * Rei-chan looks around for the guests of honour as they arrive at the engagement party.
[12:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> Shuffled through a main entryway where your names are all checked off, you soon see that there are hundreds of people here. The engagement party looks to have money afloat and then some...
[12:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> They are near the entrance, greeting people and smiling broadly the entire time.
[12:27] * Usagi-chan gives Motoki and Reika a bright smile as she enters. "Looks like it's going to be a really great party, Motoki-oniisan - thanks for inviting us!"
[12:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Usagi," he smiles and greets you, then looks over at the entire party. "Hey, glad you could all make it!"
[12:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> Reika nods as well, graceful and pretty in a white satin dress, her man in a tuxedo. That at least finally answers that old question of Usagi's... "Hello, girls."
[12:30] <Rei-chan> "Hi, Reika, Motoki," Rei smiles brightly at the pair. "Wow, you two look really great," she adds with clear approval.
[12:30] * Ami-chan smiles as well, nodding in agreement with Rei. "And happy, too." she observes.
[12:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Thanks," Motoki grins and laughs. "Well, get on in there and have some fun," she says. "Since most of you look like you didn't bring a date, you're in luck! I invited a lot of my single friends for just this occasion," he winks at Usagi in particular.
[12:33] * Usagi-chan blushes at that, not sure how to explain that she isn't QUITE single any more. "Thanks," she mumbles.
[12:33] * Rei-chan chuckles, but makes no comment, instead just taking Usagi's arm as they head inside.
[12:34] * Ami-chan slowly follows Usagi and Rei, quietly looking around...
[12:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> There are indeed many suited and tuxedoed young men about, several rather fetching. To your tastes, there are also several gowned and beribboned young girls about, as appealing as the men.
[12:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> All dance about right now, music being played by a string quartet in back. Past this are the double doors to the plaza, kept open where even more talk and enjoy the food.
[12:35] <Usagi-chan> "There are so many people here!" Usagi says quickly. "I didn't think this was going to be so big!"
[12:35] <Rei-chan> "Motoki and Reika must be pretty popular," Rei observes, taking in the ambience.
[12:36] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Nice," Alan agrees, eyeing the far away food. "Why don't we go to the buffet, then dance, Makoto?" he asks, almost starting over there without her.
[12:37] * Usagi-chan grins. "You read my mind, Alan - I definitely want to dance in a bit, but I'm more interested in the food right now."
[12:37] * Rei-chan gives Makoto an understanding look.
[12:38] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yeah," Ann grins at that. "You got it, Usagi," she nods. "Why don't we dance a little later?"
[12:38] * Makoto rolls her eyes but consents. "Sure, let's go feed you, you big goof," she says with a shake of her head, before smiling at Alan, walking besides him.
[12:38] <Prince_Herb> "Uh-oh," Herb thinks, "Ann, Alan and Usagi are all suddenly eyeing the food."
[12:38] * Prince_Herb strolls over with Ann to make sure he gets something to eat and to view the destruction
[12:38] * Rei-chan accompanies the blonde over to the buffet, only aiming for a little snack herself.
[12:39] * Ami-chan decides to go eat as well, staying with the group.
[12:40] * Usagi-chan actually shows a measure of restraint as she goes over the refreshments on display - only filling a small plate and taking a single glass of punch for the moment. "Mmm, these are really good!" she says, munching on the hors d'oeuvres.
[12:41] <Rei-chan> "They're certainly putting a lot of effort into this," Rei agrees, nibbling on an appetizer herself.
[12:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> The elves show less abandon, though Alan is stopped when he absently takes a champagne glass and gulps it down, coughing and holding his face as he blinks. "GAH!" he gasps, elven ears poking out from his between his outer fingers.
[12:43] <Sailor_Anastasia> By the time people notice, he's managed control of his magic again. "What the hell was that?" he says. "It tasted like fire and water together!"
[12:43] * Makoto smacks Alan upside the head, and with a sweet controlled tone states, "Have some control, dear."
[12:43] <Sailor_Anastasia> He takes a few quick breaths as he does so, shaking his head vigoursly.
[12:43] * Ami-chan blinks hard, then giggles a little, but lets Makoto handle the explanation.
[12:43] * Usagi-chan takes the glass, sniffing at it. "Champagne," she says after a moment. "It's got alcohol in it."
[12:43] <Haruka> "Sounds like a good description for champagne," Haruka tells Alan, trying to stifle a snicker and failing.
[12:44] <Rei-chan> "It's okay in moderation," Rei shrugs, before eyeing Usagi, "Although some people are better off abstaining completely."
[12:44] <Makoto> "Don't drink it, I don't wanna think what it'll do to you," Makoto mutters, at the thought of a drunk Alan. "Don't just try everything, you can sample a bit of everything later, alright, Alan?"
[12:44] * Usagi-chan sticks her tongue out at the miko. "I only did it once!"
[12:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods to Makoto. "I'm not planning on having any more of that! It was disgusting!"
[12:45] <Rei-chan> "And a lesson was learned for all time," Rei nods, sounding both sage and smug at the same time.
[12:46] <Usagi-chan> "At least you didn't have to call someone else's mom to help get me home afterwards," she retorts.
[12:46] * Rei-chan blushes. "That wasn't moderation..." she says weakly.
[12:48] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Usagi! Rei! Ami!" A female voice calls. Of note, it's not Naru's... but Luna's.
[12:48] * Usagi-chan grins triumphantly, not bothering to follow the point up. She turns to see Luna. "Luna? What are you doing here?" Usagi asks curiously.
[12:48] * Rei-chan looks over in surprise at the human-formed Mau, wondering the same as Usagi.
[12:49] <Sailor_Anastasia> On her arm is Artemis, both dressed formally. Luna wears a black cocktail dress, accenting a fine figure while Artemis wears a black version of his normal outfit - bellybutton hidden this time, mercifully.
[12:49] <Sailor_Anastasia> "We're Motoki's friends as well, in a way," Luna explains. "So we figured we'd slip in and surprise you here."
[12:49] * Makoto grins at the fact that Artemis' belly isn't showing. 'Showing -some- fashion sense then, eh?'
[12:50] * Ami-chan blinks, then smiles. "Nice to see you..." she greets, shen gives Artemis a 'look'.
[12:50] <Rei-chan> Looking the pair up and down, Rei smiles. "Don't you two make an attractive couple?" she notes, teasingly, "Going to be having a party like this yourselves any time soon?"
[12:51] <Sailor_Anastasia> He returns it with a catty smile of his own, almost laughing. "Lookin' good, Ami!" he says loudly. "At this point, I'm wondering if I can trade you and Luna."
[12:51] <Rei-chan> 'Or not...' Rei thinks as Artemis puts his foot in his mouth.
[12:51] * Usagi-chan covers a giggle at the outrageous Mau's comment.
[12:51] <Sailor_Anastasia> About to reply to that, Luna instead scowls and gives the cat a nice smack on the back of the head. "ArteMIS," she says warningly. "Do NOT hit on Ami!"
[12:51] * Ami-chan blushes darkly, shaking her head. "Artemis..." She groans.
[12:52] * Makoto starts laughing a bit. "Let him be. He wouldn't be Artemis otherwise."
[12:53] * Rei-chan nods sadly to Makoto's point. "It's true."
[12:54] <Sailor_Anastasia> "And why not, Luna?" he smirks, rubbing the back of his head. "You know, they weren't the only ones reincarnated," he says in a stage whisper. "Maybe the Queen made you that way, too. I'll just have to beat you to Ami-chan, Luna!" Somehow, he keeps a more or less straight smirk, though laughter threatens to escape any moment.
[12:54] * Haruka chuckles as Artemis speaks aloud and acts out pretty much what was on her own mind.
[12:54] * Usagi-chan laughs out loud at the thought of Luna chasing Ami around.
[12:54] * Ami-chan chokes, going several shades darker red, and looking for a place to hide.
[12:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I am not like THAT," Luna protests even louder. "And even if I was, I'd rather ask Usagi to look into gender-changing magic for you, furball, instead of chasing poor Ami!"
[12:55] * Rei-chan coughs. "Luna... pipe down a little, please?"
[12:57] <Sailor_Anastasia> Laughing at that, he just pats Luna. "Yeah, keep it down, Luna. You're getting some strange looks, unless you want romance when you go to the girl's room," he digs again, separating now for the twofold purpose of getting some of the salmon sushi and avoiding certain death.
[12:57] * Usagi-chan nods quickly, her laughter subsiding quickly. "Best not to say stuff like that quite so loud, Luna," she agrees.
[12:58] <Rei-chan> "Honestly," Rei sighs, "We just can't take you two anywhere, can we?"
[12:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> Simmering and sputtering, "That... rejected pound stray..." Luna twitches. "I wonder if Rhett Bulter has another girlfriend yet," she mutters darkly. "Or if that cat from Chibi Usa's anime is avaliable."
[12:59] <Prince_Herb> "There's always Nian," says an amused Herb.
[12:59] * Usagi-chan giggles again at that. "I bet we could find him again if you're really serious about that, Luna," Usagi says with a grin.
[13:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Hush," she says to Usagi, turning to Ami. "Sorry about that, Ami-chan."
[13:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> 'Nian? Only if he starts talking like a normal person,' Luna can't help but think. 'His fur is cute, though. Hmmm...'
[13:01] * Ami-chan shakes her head, still bright red, but calming down. "In a strange way, I'm getting used to it.." She sighs, smiling faintly.
[13:02] <Makoto> "Well, just remember, you control his fish supply, Ami-chan!" Makoto states dramatically.
[13:03] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ann nods amid a mouthful of food. "Twhat's wrigth! Youze ellim, Maoto!" she garbles out, swallowing. "Or something like that, nayway."
[13:03] * Ami-chan snickers a little. "Good point..." she replies slowly, grinning
[13:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> As this goes on, Artemis returns quickly, Naru tagging along. "Hey, guys," she smiles lightly and waves, her blue/green dress pretty and nice with her white dress gloves. "Did you go dancing yet, Usagi?"
[13:06] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "Not yet, Naru-chan - we just got here." She grins a bit. "You know me - had to go for the food first."
[13:06] <Rei-chan> "Hi, Naru-chan," Rei waves.
[13:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Same old Usagi there," she comments, nodding to Rei.
[13:07] <Makoto> "Hey Naru," Makoto ackowledges as she continues to keep an eye on Alan's plate level, lest he leave everybody else without anything to eat.
[13:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> Makoto - At this point, the elves have made a notable dent. Between that and whatever Usagi finally eats... gonna be a bill for the families paying for this.
[13:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Hey," she nods. "Usagi, you should have told me you knew such a cute guy all this time," Naru smiles at the furball, as Luna glares again, just not winning today.
[13:09] <Makoto> 'Sorry Motoki,' Makoto thinks. 'At least they seem to be leaving enough for everyone else...'
[13:09] * Rei-chan sidles up to Luna. "You know, Luna, there are a lot of cute single guys here. Artemis might talk big, but I bet you could make him REALLY jealous if you wanted to..." she whispers in a conspiratorial tone.
[13:09] * Usagi-chan giggles. "I wouldn't be too sure about that, Naru-chan. Artemis might look cute, but it's hard to say what's going to come out of his mouth next," the blonde replies.
[13:09] <Sailor_Anastasia> Luna smirks at that, turning away from Artemis. "Maybe I should..." she whispers back, as Artemis pays no heed.
[13:10] <Rei-chan> "I think he needs to learn some humility," Rei agrees with an evil little grin.
[13:10] <Prince_Herb> "Does madame wish to dance?" Herb whispers to Ann. "I think we could get the musicians to play a tango for us, if we asked nicely."
[13:10] <Sailor_Anastasia> "It won't be boring when I dance with him," she nods, taking his arm as Artemis blinks a bit. "Come on, Artemis, I need a dance partner, anyway."
[13:11] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Wait, dancing? I don't like to dance," Artemis protests, but is dragged off despite that.
[13:11] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Sure," Ann agrees with a shrug, polishing off her last plate for now and gulping down some water. Despite that, she didn't splatter food on her clothes, an impressive feat.
[13:11] <Usagi-chan> "Have fun, Artemis!" Usagi calls after the retreating pair, cleaning off the last of her plate. "You want to go join them, Rei-chan?" Usagi asks, looking over at the miko.
[13:12] * Rei-chan smirks as the white Mau is dragged off. 'Good luck, Luna.' She then turns to Usagi, "I'd love to," she replies, taking Usagi's hand.
[13:13] * Usagi-chan smiles, clasping Rei's hand gently as she leads the two out onto the dance floor and waits for the next song to begin. "I just hope I'm better at this than the last time I tried it," Usagi says ruefully.
[13:14] <Rei-chan> "I'll make sure you don't klutz out," Rei teases, preparing to take the lead in their dancing.
[13:15] <Usagi-chan> "We'll just have to see if what I've remembered since then is good enough," Usagi replies somewhat nervously.
[13:20] * Prince_Herb briefly speaks to the leader of the string quartet, and then takes to the floor with Ann.
[13:29] <Sailor_Anastasia> Thus, the couples go out to dance away, leaving a scattered few about. Ami, really, and Haruka.
[13:39] <Sailor_Anastasia> Luna ponders, thinking about Rei's advice. "Ami-chan... do you think I could get one of these guys for a little while?"
[13:40] * Ami-chan blinks and nods. "Of course." She agrees. "You're very pretty... why do you ask?"
[13:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Just thinking," Luna nods. "Yeah, thanks, Ami," she nods, going off to the dance floor herself. "You two have fun!"
[13:43] * Ami-chan watches her, wondering. "That seems to bode ill for Artemis..." she murmurs as Luna moves off, frowning.
[13:43] * Haruka gives Luna a smile and a wave as she goes off. "Fun, she says." Now turning her attention to Ami. "Feel up for anything, Ami?" Haruka asks with a curious tilt of her head.
[13:43] * Ami-chan blinks, looking over at the tall blonde curiously. "Did you have anything in mind?"
[13:46] <Haruka> "Nothing in particular, really. Just being here and chatting with you is nice in itself," Haruka replies honestly. "Honestly, we haven't talked much since that time in the park so I was wondering how things were going."
[13:48] * Ami-chan blinks, and colors a bit as she remembers the cause of that talk. "Mm... I don't know." Ami confesses. "A lot has happened..."
[13:50] * Haruka gives Ami a reassuring smile. "Don't feel you have to do or say anything on my account. If you want to do anything, I'm open for suggestions as well, Ami."
[13:56] * Ami-chan blushes. "Sorry. I'm a bit at loose ends in a gathering like this..." she admits sheepishly. "I don't mind talking, It's just that... after the trip to the other universe, things got confusing." she clarifies. She glances around, then smiles. "But it's not all that interesting. Can you suggest something we can do?"
[13:59] <Haruka> "How about we just take a short walk and chat for now?" Haruka begins, wanting to see what it is that's bugging Ami so much, though she knows what the core of it is as she glances at Makoto. She gives Ami a soft smile to hopefully set her at ease. "Then if you feel up to it after that, you can gift me with a dance?"
[14:01] * Ami-chan blinks, smiling a little, and finally nods. "Alright." She agrees, giggling.
[14:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> Meanwhile, as Ami and Haruka go walking, the dances go on and on. As the couples prance to the music, you note Motoki and Reika have taken the floor as well, dancing among you. They smile at all the couples, but make a point to get to Usagi and Rei. "Hey, Usagi," Motoki smiles as you are close for a bit, "Not having any luck yet?" he says, glancing at Rei.
[14:13] <Rei-chan> "She's plenty lucky to have me!" Rei asserts lightly.
[14:13] * Usagi-chan nods, blushing a bit.
[14:14] <Sailor_Anastasia> Chuckling, "Well, Rei is probably a great dancer and she's cute, but don't want to dance with a nice guy instead of one of your friends," he prods playfully. "I can go get Hiro or Daisuke if you want, Usagi."
[14:14] * Usagi-chan smiles shyly. "I appreciate it, Motoki, but I'm happy with Rei," she replies.
[14:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> Reika blushes at that and smiles strangely. "Motoki, why don't you leave them alone? I think Rei and Usagi just want to dance with each other," she says, gracefully elbowing him and winking.
[14:16] * Usagi-chan blushes a bit more brightly, giving Reika a grateful smile.
[14:16] * Rei-chan gives Reika a small but grateful smile.
[14:16] <Sailor_Anastasia> Motoki blinks twice, looking at the two of you, dawning comprehension. "OH! Well... um..." he blushes, "Well, have fun, Usagi!"
[14:17] <Usagi-chan> "I will," Usagi says with a smile, looking back at Rei. "I usually do."
[14:17] <Rei-chan> "You two have fun as well," Rei smiles at the pair, before focusing entirely on Usagi once more.
[14:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> Shortly thereafter, the two dance away but are shortly interrupted by an annoucement over the PA system perhaps twenty minutes later. "Will all the guests please come to the plaza for the day's big annoucements?"
[14:18] * Usagi-chan smiles. "Guess it's time for the big news," she says to Rei as they separate from their dance.
[14:19] <Rei-chan> "Yep," Rei grins, taking Usagi's hand and heading to the plaza, getting a glass of punch for each of them on the way and looking around for their other friends.
[14:24] <Sailor_Anastasia> As you gather, you see the buffet tables have been replaced with a podium, where a strange man is. There is something of an odd commotion as all the guests look at him. He is tall and has an amazing sense of presence, being over six feet tall with ruffled white hair, short. His eyes are perfectly white and clear, his clothes a white tuxedo. Not a speck of any other color is there... and yet, he has no aura or spirit you can detect.
[14:25] * Rei-chan blinks. 'What on Earth...' she studies the man intently, wondering if her senses are decieving her.
[14:27] <Usagi-chan> 'What the...' Usagi stares openly at the man, having never seen someone completely without an aura since she was first able to use the sense.
[14:27] <Rei-chan> 'You, too?' Rei thinks to Usagi, confirming that she isn't imagining things as she watches the strange man with intent curiosity.
[14:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> You just don't sense anything. He is just there, like he is fundamentally being. "Attention," he says, his voice quiet and rich, taking a microphone. Without any dramatic effect or note in his voice at all, or even emotion, "Rest now." With those words, you feel magic and power suddenly course over the entire plaza! (OOC - Soul checks at +3, all.)
[14:28] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6+3
[14:28] * Musk-bot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6+3 and gets 11."
[14:29] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6+3
[14:29] * Musk-bot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6+3 and gets 7."
[14:29] <Makoto> roll 2d6+3
[14:29] * Musk-bot --> "Makoto rolls 2d6+3 and gets 9."
[14:29] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[14:29] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[14:29] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[14:29] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 2."
[14:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[14:30] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[14:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> Like flies, the entire plaza drops dead asleep instantly, save for Rei, Usagi, Herb and Ann!
[14:31] <Rei-chan> "What the hell?!" Rei looks around in alarm, putting herself in front of Usagi and tensing.
[14:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Some resisted. Surprising, but no matter," is his cool and emotionless response to this. "Show."
[14:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - All concious people make another Soul check, unmodded.
[14:31] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[14:31] * Musk-bot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[14:31] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[14:31] * Musk-bot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[14:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[14:31] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[14:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[14:31] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[14:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> "The hell," Ann hisses, glaring at the man. While this happens...
[14:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> Every single person spare those awake becomes transparent a moment, a Heart Crystal, a Mirror of some sort, and a gentle point of light visible in each. "Nothing," he says, after a moment of looking at all of them.
[14:33] <Usagi-chan> "What the hell is going on?" Usagi says shrilly. "Who do you think you are?!"
[14:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> Turning to Usagi, his lifeless eyes disturb the Queen greatly. "I seek the Silver Imperium Crystal, long taken by thieves." is his reply, voice dictating. "You resisted my magic - perhaps one of you bear a shard of it to do so?"
[14:35] * Usagi-chan narrows her eyes. "What do you mean, taken by thieves? Who are you?"
[14:40] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ann seconds that. "Yeah! Who goes around knocking people out and searching for some silly Crystal?"
[14:40] <Rei-chan> 'Who, indeed...' Rei thinks wryly, still tense and ready to fight.
[14:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I am... Zirae, the born ruler of this universe and the true owner of the Silver Imperium Crystal. But it is not important. I do not believe the Crystal is here. Farewell."
[14:43] <Sailor_Anastasia> At that, he is simply gone.
[14:43] <Usagi-chan> "Born ruler of the universe?" Usagi says, looking puzzled. "And what does he mean HE'S the true owner of the Crystal? It was an heirloom of the Moon Kingdom for thousands of years!"
[14:45] <Rei-chan> "What about thousands of years before that?" Rei asks, shrugging. "In any case, it looks like we're going to be busy again." She then kneels down to check on the nearest unconscious person.
[14:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> Kneeling, you see that the person next to you is sleeping lightly. On the plus side, there is no sign of energy draining or damage - just an enforced slumber.
[14:46] * Rei-chan stands. "At least no one seems hurt... this time..."
[14:46] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "I don't know... the history books only go back to the founding of the kingdom, and we had the Crystal even then I think." She grimaces as an unpleasant thought occurs to her. "What if he finds Chibi Usa?"
[14:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> Going over to Alan and Makoto, Ann checks them. "They just look to be asleep - was that a sleep spell?"
[14:47] <Rei-chan> "Exactly what I was worried about," Rei grimaces, looking over at Ann. "It wasn't so much a spell as a command, I think. I didn't sense any magic - he just said what he wanted and it happened."
[14:48] <Usagi-chan> "I felt power from him, but it wasn't like any kind of magic I've ever seen before," Usagi explains. "I don't know what it was."
[14:49] <Rei-chan> "Whatever he is... we can't take him lightly," Rei says grimly.
[14:50] <Prince_Herb> "Usa-chan, do you think Setsuna would know anything?" Herb asks
[14:51] <Usagi-chan> "She might, but she's not usually in the habit of giving us anything we can find out on our own," Usagi replies. "I could ask, I suppose, but I really don't think I'll find anything out from her."
[14:52] <Sailor_Anastasia> As you talk, each person rises back up as if in rewind, reawakening without any sign of knowing anything was wrong. Walking to the podium, a sandy haired, middle aged man looking like Motoki takes it. "May I have your attention, please? I have a wonderful annoucement today..."
[14:53] * Usagi-chan frowns... the man might not have done any lasting harm, but walking around like he owns the place and demanding the Crystal isn't what she'd call a friendly action.
[14:53] * Rei-chan looks around in surprise, before shrugging and trying to act normal. If nothing else, Motoki and Reika's engagement does still deserve celebration.
[14:54] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ann scowls deeply. "The hell? Smooth little bastard, isn't he?"
[14:55] * Usagi-chan raises a hand to quiet Ann. "We'll talk later," she whispers, motioning to the stage.
[14:55] <Rei-chan> 'Usagi, I think after this we need to make sure Chibi Usa is with one of us at all times. It would only take a moment for Zirae to take the Crystal and kill her if she's around next time he tries something like this,' Rei worriedly sends to their leader, already trying to formulate some sort of plan for dealing with this latest menace.
[14:56] * Usagi-chan nods in reply. 'Good thinking, Rei-chan. She can sleep with me, and for now I guess she'll have to sit in classes with me or one of the rest of us.'
[14:56] <Rei-chan> 'It can be arranged easily enough,' Rei nods. 'It's far too dangerous to risk her being alone, I think.'
[14:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> "... am pleased to annouce the the joining of our two families by wedlock. I wish my beloved son and daughter-in-law a long, happy life together," the man atop goes on, gesturing at the two guests of honor up front. Clapping follows, a few cheers as well.
[14:57] * Rei-chan applauds the happy couple, smiling and trying to get back in the proper mood for this occasion.
[14:57] * Usagi-chan applauds halfheartedly, her mind more focused on this new threat and how to go about dealing with it to really put her heart into it.
[14:58] * Prince_Herb applauds and smiles at Ann.
[15:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ann claps politely, nodding to Herb as her mind works over as well.
[15:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> As things go on and on, soon it breaks back to dancing. As it does so, you see Alan go over to Ann. "What's with the face?" he asks. "I haven't seen you look this annoyed in a long time."
[15:06] <Rei-chan> With most of the formalities over, Rei stays near Usagi. "Do you want to make an excuse and leave now?" she asks quietly. "I can tell you're too preoccupied with Chibi Usa to really enjoy yourself here, now. I am, too," she admits.
[15:07] <Sailor_Anastasia> "We'll talk about it later, Alan," Ann says, glancing over at Usagi. "Why don't we all go and discuss this?" she offers.
[15:07] * Usagi-chan nods. "I think that'd probably be for the best - I'm going to worry about her until I can see her again," Usagi agrees.
[15:09] <Rei-chan> Nodding, Rei looks around for Motoki and Reika so she can apologise for them leaving early.
[15:10] <Sailor_Anastasia> The two are amid a crowd of wellwishers and family, deep inside a circle of chat and chatter.
[15:11] * Usagi-chan heads for the entrance to the hall, trusting Rei to take care of matters with Motoki and Reika.
[15:12] <Rei-chan> 'Probably best not to disturb them...' Rei thinks, feeling like an outsider to the pair compared to the people occupying their attention. 'We've been here a while and paid our respects to the couple already, anyway.' Resolved, she heads to the entrance to rejoin Usagi.
[15:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> The rest of the group arrives before Rei, ready to leave on out at that.
[09:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[09:44] <Sailor_Anastasia> Back at Rei's Shrine, Artemis starts things off, back in his pint-sized cat form. "So, Usagi. You are saying that some person showed up, knocked most of us out and is searching for the Crystal?"
[09:47] * Usagi-chan nods, holding on to her adopted daughter tightly. "Yeah... he didn't hurt anyone, but he claimed to be the 'born ruler of the universe' and said the Crystal was stolen from him - that's he's its rightful owner."
[09:48] <Rei-chan> "Zirae, he said his name was," Rei puts in, frowning, "I couldn't sense ANY magic in him - not even just a blocking aura like Starfire had. But based on what he did, and how easily, he must be really powerful."
[09:49] <Sailor_Anastasia> Luna sighs again, thinking. "The name isn't ringing any bells. Did he say anything else, Usagi-chan?"
[09:51] <Usagi-chan> "Not a lot, no. He knocked everyone in the room out with just a couple of words - it wasn't like any magic I'VE seen before, but I could feel the power coming off of him." She sighs at that.
[09:52] <Rei-chan> "Then he did something to look inside everyone - I could see their heart crystals, and what looked like a mirror and a point of light. Then he said the Crystal wasn't in anyone there," Rei supplies.
[09:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yeah, it was like they were ghosts or something," Ann adds in. "Creepy, if you ask me."
[09:59] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Hm," Artemis says after a moment. "Ami-chan, could you check your computer for anything on this?"
[10:01] * Ami-chan nods, her computer already out. She enters the name Zirae, and a few other key words, setting her computer to search it's database...
[10:03] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ami's computer gets right to work, quickly coming back with: "No matches found."
[10:03] <Usagi-chan> "I just hope he doesn't run into Chibi Usa... we can't let him take her crystal." Usagi gives the girl on her lap a squeeze at that.
[10:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> Looking up at Usagi, "Mommy will protect me, so that won't happen," she smiles, confidence in you certain.
[10:04] <Ami-chan> "Nothing." Ami sighs. "He would appear to be an unknown..." she reports, and just for completeness sake, she asks her computer about the strange effects of the magic, and how it would be possible to accomplish.
[10:05] * Rei-chan smiles at Chibi Usa's affirmation.
[10:05] <Usagi-chan> "Darn right I will," Usagi says, trying to return Chibi Usa's confidence even when she doesn't feel it herself.
[10:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ami: Your computer mutters to itself as it works, finally coming back with: "Results uncertain. It is possible to disguise magic as such, but the amount of power is prohibitive."
[10:10] * Ami-chan nods to herself, then researches any known history on the Silver Crystal, looking for anything that might confirm or refute his claim.
[10:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> Working onward, you skim through the results it brings back. One piece in particular has something of interest - a very oblique reference to another user of the Crystal, as follows: "Before the times of the Silver Millenium, even the Crystal was a tool for chaos and disorder..."
[10:13] <Ami-chan> "... There may be some truth to his claim." Ami reports, looking up.
[10:14] * Usagi-chan looks up quickly. "What did you find?"
[10:16] * Ami-chan turns the computer so Usagi can read the passage herself. "If the Silver Millenium was a time of peace following strife, in the pattern history usually follows... He could very well have been the original wielder of it." She observes. "Not that we should feel any great obligation to return it."
[10:17] * Usagi-chan glances over the text, nodding. "The only thing we have to worry about for now is Chibi Usa, then - this world's crystal has been gone for months now."
[10:18] <Rei-chan> "We don't know where it's gone, though," Rei pipes up, "He mentioned the possibility of someone carrying a shard of it. Maybe after Metallia it scattered just like it did after Queen Serenity used it the last time?"
[10:19] <Usagi-chan> "I guess it's possible, but who would have the shards? I don't know how we're supposed to find them without the wand though - and even when we had that we almost never found them in time to do anything about it."
[10:20] * Ami-chan frowns. "Well..."
[10:20] <Rei-chan> "I don't know how we'd find them, but maybe he will if he keeps on doing what he did at the party..." Rei shrugs.
[10:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> "That's not good, girls," Artemis pipes in. "I don't want some nut out of nowhere to get his hands on the Crystal."
[10:21] <Usagi-chan> "I definitely don't want that to happen - Ami-chan's computer was talking about chaos and disorder, and there's no way I want to let that happen here. If there are shards out there, we've got to find them before he does."
[10:22] <Rei-chan> "I guess this takes precedence over finding that Black Crystal shard, too..." Rei sighs.
[10:22] <Ami-chan> "If you want to pursue that angle, Chibi Usa is willing to co-operate, We might be able to devise a method for locating the shards." Ami suggests.
[10:24] <Sailor_Anastasia> Chibi Usa looks at Ami. "Ami-chan?" she asks, curiosly.
[10:26] * Ami-chan smiles. "Nothing serious, Chibi Usa-chan. But since you have a crystal inside you, studying your energy might help us find the pieces of the other." Ami explains, as simply as she can. "But you don't have to, if you don't want to."
[10:26] <Usagi-chan> "Is there anything I can do to help with that?" Usagi asks. "I can sense the Crystal's energy inside Chibi Usa, but I have no idea what a shard of it would be like."
[10:27] * Ami-chan nods to Usagi. "There may be. I'd like to talk it over with the Professor to get his opinion."
[10:28] <Rei-chan> "If they're even here - the crystal shards didn't appear in those reincarnated youma until thousands of years after Queen Serenity used it. If only we had some clue to start looking with..." Rei points out, frowning at that possibility. And the unvoiced question of why Zirae waited until now to reclaim the crystal.
[10:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nodding quickly, "I'll help, Ami-chan."
[10:29] * Ami-chan smiles and nods. "Thank you very much, Chibi Usa-chan. I'll come by and see you when we're ready, and explain what we need, okay?"
[10:29] <Usagi-chan> "And I think one of us is going to need to stay with Chibi Usa at all times, until we get this settled," Usagi says, looking around at the others. "With as fast as that happened today, we may not have the time to get to her if she's in trouble."
[10:31] <Rei-chan> "Won't be hard to get her into classes at Mugen. And she lives with Usagi anyway. Just a question of having someone nearby at the other times... shouldn't be too hard, though," Rei says, although she is reminded of what happened when they tried to protect Haruka's talisman...
[10:31] * Ami-chan nods. "It might also help to have someone inconspicuous following them," She suggests, casting a glance at Artemis and Luna. "To alert the others, if her escort can't?"
[10:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Sure," Luna nods. "Artemis, Nian and myself can take shifts on that if need be."
[10:33] <Usagi-chan> "Anything else?" Usagi asks, glancing around the group.
[10:35] <Ami-chan> "Not that I can think of..." Ami ventures.
[10:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> Artemis shakes his furry head. "For now, we'll just need to be careful... again."
[10:36] * Usagi-chan nods at that. "Looks that way," she sighs. "Just let me know when you need Chibi Usa, Ami-chan, and I'll bring her over."
[10:37] * Ami-chan nods. "I will. And let me know if I can help watch her, if need be."
[10:37] <Rei-chan> "Hey, Ami, you're in that tutoring program at Mugen, aren't you?" Rei pipes up, suddenly remembering that fact.
[10:38] * Ami-chan blinks, nodding. "Uhm... yes." She responds, curiously. "Why do you ask?"
[10:40] <Rei-chan> "Well, why not get yourself assigned to tutoring Chibi Usa?" Rei asks, "That way you'll be right there with her all through the school day." She frowns a little bit, "I know it means your own studies will take a hit, but you're way ahead of everyone anyway, and hopefully this won't be for too long."
[10:40] <Usagi-chan> "That's a great idea, Rei-chan!" Usagi says with a smile.
[10:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I'd like to spend all day with Ami-chan," Chibi Usa smiles. "She can teach me more about marbles, and she usually has some soda with her."
[10:41] * Ami-chan blinks, and nods. "I could try that... is that alright with you, Chibi Usa-chan?"
[10:41] * Ami-chan blushes a little at that, and grins. "Sure thing." she agrees.
[10:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Careful, Ami," Artemis warns with a light smile, "You'll get her hooked on caffiene at a young age."
[10:46] <Ami-chan> "As opposed to being hooked on it at an old age, like me?" Ami teases her friend playfully.
[10:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Exactly," Artemis nods with authority. "No need to rot out poor Chibi Usa's growing teeth, Ami-chan."
[10:47] <Usagi-chan> "You'd better not!" Usagi says in a warning tone. "No more than one a day."
[10:48] * Ami-chan puts up her hands in slightly nervous surrender. "I hadn't planned on it!" She assures Usagi hastily, blushing.
[10:48] <Rei-chan> "Whether from intergalactic overlords or tooth decay, Usagi will protect you, Chibi Usa," Rei snickers.
[10:49] <Sailor_Anastasia> "But... I like that soda Ami-chan gives me, that tastes like cherries!" Chibi Usa protests a bit.
[10:49] <Usagi-chan> "No kidding! I don't want to have to take her to the dentist any more than I want an evil intergalactic overlord to get his hands on her!" Usagi asserts.
[10:51] <Ami-chan> "I think we've been overruled, Chibi Usa-chan." She smiles. "But your mother's right."
[10:52] <Sailor_Anastasia> The girl droops a bit, but nods. "Okay, okay."
[10:54] * Ami-chan smiles sympathetically. "Just one a day, right? We'll make it a good one."
[10:55] * Usagi-chan nods, smiling. "I won't be totally mean, just don't go crazy with it."
[10:56] <Ami-chan> "Right." Ami smiles ruefully. "That's my job."
[10:56] * Usagi-chan giggles at that.
[11:28] <Ana-lunch> ----
[11:32] <Ana-lunch> The next day, Friday, has Chibi Usa tagging along with Usagi all day. A word down the chain okays it with your teachers, and the day passes by. Ami makes a point of stopping you in the halls between classes, asking you to stop by the lab with Chibi Usa.
[11:34] <Ana-lunch> On arriving, you find Ami and Professor Tomoe there, speaking. "You think this could work, Ami?" he asks her, interested.
[11:36] * Usagi-chan smiles at Chibi Usa. "I have some other things to take care of for a little while, Chibi Usa-chan, so be good for Ami and the Professor, okay?"
[11:36] <Anastasia> "Alright," she nods once, going over to Ami. Waving once more, she turns to her and whispers. "Can I have a soda once Mommy leaves, Ami-chan?"
[11:38] * Ami-chan pauses her response to the Professor and blushes a little, nodding to the child. "Mmhmm. But We'll still have to stick to your mother's rules. Just one, okay?"
[11:38] * Usagi-chan waves to the three as she departs for her own business.
[11:39] <Anastasia> Smiling despite that, Chibi Usa nods. "Okay, Ami-chan."
[11:40] * Ami-chan waves back, taking Chibi Usa's hand. "Ready?" She asks, smiling. "This might be a little boring, so bear with us, okay?"
[11:40] <Anastasia> Nodding once to the girl, PRofessor Tomoe goes on. "How do you propose to begin this, Ami?"
[11:41] * Ami-chan turns to the Professor. "My computer can detect her energy wavelengths that match the Silver Crystal's," she explains. "So I think that would be the best place to start. What I'm hoping is that if we filter out her natural energy wavelengths, we'll have something more usable to begin tracking with."
[11:46] <Anastasia> "It's a sound theory," he agrees, again looking at the little child. "Chibi Usa, could you go sit on that chair over there?" he says, pointing to a little wooden stool a bit away from your location. The girl nods, doing so without argument.
[11:47] * Ami-chan smiles to the child. "I'll bring you the soda as soon as we finish this part, okay?"
[11:48] <Anastasia> "Okay, Ami-chan," Chibi Usa nods, settling and squirming on the stool a bit.
[11:54] * Ami-chan turns to the professor. "The initial scan is relatively easy," she observes, recalling her first discovery of the unusal energy in Usagi's child. "Can we use your equipment, or should we hook the Mercury Computer's scanners to it?"
[11:56] <Anastasia> "It's up to you, we can try both if one proves insufficient," he replies after a moment of thought.
[11:59] * Ami-chan nods. "All right. We'll try it without my computer, for the moment." Ami decides, and moves over to the nearby equipment, adjusting some of the settings on it to the ones she used in her initial scan, looking up to the Professor for permission to begin... after all, it -was- his lab.
[11:59] <Anastasia> He nods once, sensing what you wish. "Go ahead, it's your show, Ami."
[12:02] * Ami-chan nods, smiling briefly, then turning on the labs scanners, and setting them to work examining the little girl seated on the stool.
[12:04] <Anastasia> The machines are high quality and finely tuned, scanning Chibi Usa as you direct. A monitor shows an overview of the girl, a hidden camera capturing her image. The energy array around her is impressive, with notes about the 'extremely high energy source' within her body.
[12:07] * Ami-chan nods to herself, and begins adjusting wavelengths, attempting to filter out the purely biological ones. "Professor... you wouldn't happen to have any scans of Usagi in your records, would you?" Ami asks suddenly, out of curiousity.
[12:09] <Anastasia> "I do, actually," he says, going to another control panel. "I scanned her a few times as we were working on the dimensional walls - I'll bring up the file."
[12:13] * Ami-chan smiles. "Perfect. That should give me a good start on what I can filter out." She looks up at Chibi Usa as she works, preparing to eliminate any similarities to Usagi's natural energy from the scan. "Unfortunately, a scan of Mamoru-san is somewhat unlikely." she sighs, beginning to ponder how to work around that.
[12:14] <Anastasia> Using the data in Usagi's file (she's more potent than you realized. Energy filled girl, isn't she?), you are able to disregard some of the background information. There is still some interference, though, as well as something else. There is a blurring in a few of the waves between Chibi Usa's biorhythms and the Crystal.
[12:18] * Ami-chan winces. "It's started, has it?" She muses to herself, then narrows the scan slightly, checking for potential methods of elimination based on biological and non-biological energy.
[12:20] <Anastasia> The scan results aren't entirely encouraging - the blurring seen before is making it difficult to seprate the finer layers of bio and non-bio waves.
[12:22] * Ami-chan suddenly remembers that in the other world, she scanned the nearly depleted Silver Crystal. Taking out the Mercury computer, she checks for the records of the scan, looking for enough data to use as a baseline for filtering out the last of the interference...
[12:26] <Anastasia> It does help quite a bit - you get it down to what you think is most of it, and... with that, you can tell what the blurring is. It looks as if the energy of the Crystal and Chibi Usa's own energy and body are beginning to synchronize and merge.
[12:30] * Ami-chan nods, her hunch on that score confirmed. She alters the scan to accept what she's narrowed it down to, and examines the data with an eye to building a 'radar' of sorts, to detect it, trying to determine if it's refined enough for that. While she does so, she also sets the scanning equipment to begin making a record of the scan.
[12:33] <Anastasia> It looks like it could be done, though it would be short range - it would also help if it were used away from Chibi Usa for obvious reasons. The equipment notes the scan as you work, taking down all the details...
[12:38] * Ami-chan looks up, pleased. "Looks promising." she reports. "I think I can do it, though the range may be a problem..."
[12:39] <Anastasia> Nodding from his own station, "I see that. What about the other readings?" he asks pointely, while sending a look to Chibi Usa. "We're almost done, Chibi Usa," he says as the girl squirms just a bit.
[12:47] <Ami-chan> "The blurred ones?" Ami asks, looking up, curious.
[12:48] <Anastasia> "Yes, Ami," he comments, glancing back at the monitor.
[12:50] * Ami-chan nods. "I don't think they'll be a problem." She says slowly, not wanting to spook Chibi Usa with speculation. "Do you think it will interfere?"
[12:53] <Anastasia> "I'm not entirely sure, but it's not a matter for now," he says, standing fully up. "Chibi Usa, why don't you go with Ami and get that soda now?"
[12:54] * Ami-chan nods, walking over to the stool. "Wasn't too bad, was it?" She asks the little girl with a smile.
[12:55] <Anastasia> "No it wasn't, Ami-chan," Chibi Usa says as she hops off. "Can we go now?" The girl smile is cheery, unaware of anything that might be causing you or others worry right now.
[12:58] <Ami-chan> "Uh huh." Ami grins. "Cherry cola sound good?"
[12:59] <Anastasia> A nod there, "Okay, Ami-chan," she agrees. "Can we go for ice cream after that, too?"
[13:01] * Ami-chan giggles. "All right, but you'll have to keep it a secret. I could get in trouble with your mother... if she finds out I went out for ice cream without her."
[13:02] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa nods intelligently, "Mommy does like ice cream," she comments, "Though at least she saves me some now."
[13:04] <Ami-chan> "I'd say you're fortunate, then." Ami laughs. "Stories about her and ice cream are almost legend." She says, taking Chibi Usa's hand.

[10:22] <Anastasia> ---
[10:23] <Anastasia> After dropping off her daughter at Mugen, Usagi heads to the Lunar library, intent on beginning her search. A wealth of books are availiable, subjects lengthy and light both entwined here. A narrow search may not be a bad idea...
[10:24] * Usagi-chan ponders only briefly, having already considered the question of where to look. She heads for the histories, looking for any tomes dealing with the very earliest years of the Moon Kingdom and hopefully times prior.
[10:25] <Anastasia> You find relatively few books on this subject - perhaps six on the beginnings of the long-ago Moon Kingdom, and only two on the times before it. The histories look to be somewhat grainy and lost around this point.
[10:26] * Usagi-chan sighs, having expected as much. One by one she hauls the dusty books over to one of the reading tables, beginning with the most likely candidate for the origins of the Kingdom itself.
[10:27] <Anastasia> OOC - Roll 2d6, Usagi-chan.
[10:27] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[10:27] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[10:29] <Anastasia> Skimming over the first one, you find some information on it slash religious overtones. It goes on about how the Kingdom was founded by the Goddess Selene and the Queen of the Moon used the Silver Crystal to bring order and peace.
[10:31] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit, the mythology being somewhat interesting if not all that helpful. Closing the book, she slides it off to the side as she tries one of the two dealing with times BEFORE the kingdom's founding.
[10:31] <Anastasia> OOC - Roll 2d6, Usagi-chan.
[10:32] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[10:32] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[10:35] <Anastasia> The books mention a chaotic time of rival planets battling and sparring with each other, no clear winner coming until the Queen of the Moon came back with her Silver Crystal.
[10:36] <Usagi-chan> "Came back?" Usagi muses. "Came back from where, though?" Shaking her head, she scans the book, looking for any mention of Zirae's name - without much hope, but it's worth a try.
[10:37] <Anastasia> There isn't a mention of the name, but a line that reads, roughly, "And the Queen came from beyond the Solar System with the Crystal in hand, bringing peace to all the worlds she passed..."
[10:38] <Usagi-chan> "Huh," Usagi says thoughtfully, closing the book and setting it aside. "So it did come from outside the system then." She pauses for a moment, 'borrowing' one of Ami's sodas from the mini-fridge in her study before returning to look at the second of the books dealing with the times before the Silver Millenium.
[10:46] <Anastasia> OOC - Roll 2d6, Usagi-chan.
[10:46] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[10:46] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[10:47] <Anastasia> Again, you read into another forgotten tome - while the words don't tell you anything new, there is a picture of a shadowy man, with the letters coming out to 'Ziray', more or less.
[10:48] <Anastasia> In the picture, the Queen holds the Crystal, the man just outside of its light as she grasps it...
[10:48] * Usagi-chan looks for any text specifically relating to the picture.
[10:49] <Anastasia> There isn't anything really referencing it, it's more of a standalone picture.
[10:49] * Usagi-chan sets the book aside, leaving it open to the picture as she grabs another book about the Kingdom's origins.
[10:50] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[10:50] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[10:50] <Anastasia> This book has another tidbit inside of it... "The Queen travelled beyond the stars to find the legendary Crystal, holding it when she came back from beyond."
[10:53] * Usagi-chan nods, the words confirming what she's learned from the other books - it's obvious that the Crystal isn't native to this solar system, although a better idea of where it DOES come from would be helpful.
[10:54] * Usagi-chan sets that book aside as well, leaving a bookmark inside the tome where the relevant passage appears. The next few minutes are spent checking over the last four of the Moon Kingdom's early histories.
[10:54] <Usagi-chan> roll 4#2d6
[10:54] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 4#2d6 and gets 10, 8, 4, 6."
[10:55] <Anastasia> Reading over them, Usagi doesn't find much of note beyond another reference to the Crystal being from beyond the bounds of the Solar System.
[10:57] * Usagi-chan goes back over to look at the picture in the third book she checked, tapping the caption thoughtfully.
[10:57] <Anastasia> It's rather vague - the shadowed figure has no features beyond the name just below him.
[10:59] * Usagi-chan frowns - it IS vague, but it's the closest clue they've found so far. Other than the simple confirmation of Zirae being related to the Crystal and the earliest times of the Kingdom. Slipping another bookmark into the book, she puts both it and the fourth book - the one with the specific mention of the Crystal being from outside the system - in her subspace pocket, resolving to have Ami and maybe the Professor help her go over them later.
[22:00] <Usagi-chan> -----
[22:02] <Usagi-chan> It's a somewhat cloudy Saturday afternoon, a week after Natsume's last ill-fated 'sparring' session with Ann. School has been slower than usual today, it seems - waiting for classes to let out for her new lessons to begin finds Natsume rather bored. Finally, the last bell of the day rings, announcing the inmates' freedom.
[22:07] * Natsume quickly gathers together her belongings. Her entire day had been spent in biting anticipation...
[22:08] * Natsume, for once, doesn't bother inviting Ann to the rooftop for whatever reason...
[22:11] * Natsume rushes out the door and to the front of the school, where she is to meet Usagi.
[22:12] * Natsume sees the older girl waiting near the gates, and runs over to her.
[22:12] * Usagi-chan glances at her watch just as Natsume rounds the corner. "She was supposed to... oh, there she is." She gives the kendoist a smile. "Heya, Natsume!" she says, waving with her free hand. The other is holding the hand of a very young girl - perhaps five or six years old - with pink hair in a style very similar to the blonde's, really.
[22:14] <Natsume> "I hope you didn't have to wait long, I ran over here as fast as I could," Natsume says. She then notices the small girl at her side. "And who might this be?"
[22:15] <Usagi-chan> "No, I was just making sure *I* wasn't late," Usagi explains with a smile. "I just got here, really. And this is Chibi Usa. Chibi Usa, this is Natsume - she'll be spending some time with us this afternoon."
[22:15] <Makoto> "Usagi-chan! Chibi-Usa! What are you guys doing here?" Makoto asks as she exits the school and heads towards them upon noticing them.
[22:16] <Usagi-chan> The little girl manages a shy smile, although she stays fairly close to Usagi. "Nice to meet you, Natsume," she says.
[22:16] <Natsume> "Nice to meet you too," she says, smiling back.
[22:17] * Usagi-chan breaks into a smile at the sight of the brunette. "Heya, Mako-chan!" Usagi says with a cheerful wave. "We were just here to meet Natsume - I don't think you've met her yet, have you?"
[22:18] <Makoto> "Huh? Oh right, I remember you talking about a Natsume before..." Makoto says as she looks over the girl. 'Doesn't look as worked over as I imagined. Ann's been nice.'
[22:19] <Makoto> Shaking her head, she raises her hand in greeting. "Yo," Makoto says simply. "I'm Makoto Kino."
[22:19] <Usagi-chan> 'I DID chew her out pretty good after the last time,' Usagi replies. 'She really tore her up pretty bad last week, so I bet she's been laying low.'
[22:21] <Natsume> "Kusanagi... Kusanagi Natsume," she greets politely. "Very pleased to meet you."
[22:22] <Usagi-chan> "Mako-chan's a really good friend of mine - I met her back when I used to go to school here," Usagi explains.
[22:23] <Makoto> "Yeah, I miss having you and the other guys around," Makoto says. "Almost makes me wanna move sometimes, especially with Alan in high school now."
[22:24] <Natsume> "Ah, well, anyone who is a friend of Tsukino-san is a friend of mine," she says.
[22:24] <Usagi-chan> "Me too!" Usagi agrees, nodding to Natsume. "The cafeteria food at Mugen is pretty good, but I miss getting to snack on your bentos!" she says with a slight pout.
[22:26] <Makoto> "Thanks, Natsume," Makoto replies earnestly, before shaking her head at Usagi. "I just hope you're not wiping them out, Usagi-chan. They need to feed other students, remember."
[22:27] <Usagi-chan> "I know, I know." Turning to Natsume, she explains a bit more. "Mako-chan is dating Ann's older brother Alan."
[22:29] <Natsume> "I see, he's a pretty popular guy, I didn't think he would ever settle on any one person,"
[22:31] * Makoto raises an eyebrow at the simple statement. "You're a bit slow on the rumor mill, aren't you?" Makoto asks. "I've been dating Alan for a while now."
[22:32] <Natsume> "Eheh, well, keeping up with gossip isn't really a hobby of mine," Natsume explains in slight embarrassment.
[22:34] * Natsume, for some reason, seems to be having difficulties looking at Makoto straight in the face, and has taken a particular interest at some random spot on the ground...
[22:36] * Usagi-chan giggles a bit at Natsume's discomfiture. "If you want to try sparring with someone who WON'T try to knock you into the middle of next week, Makoto might be able to help you out," Usagi says. "If that's okay with you of course, Mako-chan."
[22:40] <Makoto> "Huh? Sure, I don't mind," Makoto says, though scratching her head at Natsume's reaction. 'Jeez, I didn't offend her somehow, did I?'
[22:41] <Natsume> "I... would be honored," Natsume says, now blushing slightly...
[22:42] <Makoto> 'Well huh, guess I didn't offend. How strange,' Makoto thinks, still a bit confused.
[22:42] * Usagi-chan shrugs lightly. 'I'll see if I can't find out,' Usagi offers. "Anyway, we're headed over to the park for some training today, I think. I've got a nice spot picked out where we shouldn't have too many people to bother us, so we should be fine."
[22:48] <Makoto> "Oh, you meant spar now? I don't have a problem, just thought you meant at some point later," Makoto says with a shrug. "Lead the way, I suppose, Usagi."
[22:49] <Usagi-chan> "Oh no, not right now. I'm going to go help her learn to control her energy better - that's part of why I have Chibi Usa along. She needs to learn it too." Usagi backs up quickly.
[22:51] <Natsume> "...she's the training partner you spoke of?" Natsume says, snapping back to reality.
[22:51] <Makoto> "Oh? What can Natsume-san do anyway?" Makoto asks, giving part of her look towards Natsume so she can answer herself if she wants.
[22:52] <Natsume> "Ah, well, its not much right now," she answers modestly. "I'm able to craft my chi into a sword. A very rough one at least."
[22:53] * Usagi-chan nods to Natsume. "Yeah, Chibi Usa is who I was talking about. She REALLY needs to learn some of this stuff - it's kind of important for her."
[22:53] * Makoto blinks at that. "Cool!" Turning to Usagi, she asks, "Hey, even if I'm not sparring, can I come to watch?"
[22:54] <Usagi-chan> "Sure, if you want," Usagi says with a smile. "The more the merrier."
[22:55] * Natsume glances back down at Chibi-Usa...
[22:55] <Usagi-chan> She looks back at you rather nervously, almost hiding behind Usagi.
[22:55] <Natsume> 'My training partner is a child half my age...' Natsume thinks to herself. 'I hope I don't make too much of a fool out of myself in front of Kino-san...'
[22:56] <Usagi-chan> "Anyway, unless anyone else has anything they need to do, I'm ready to go get started," Usagi says.
[22:57] <Natsume> "Yes! Off to training we go!" Natsume nearly yells with overenthusiasm before marching off in the wrong direction...
[22:58] * Usagi-chan coughs. "Um... the park is THIS way, Natsume," Usagi says.
[22:58] * Makoto shakes her head. 'Oh, I am -so- not missing this anymore.'
[22:58] * Natsume stops in mid-step, swivels and beings marching in the right direction.
[23:01] * Usagi-chan shakes her head and giggles, leading the group on. A short walk finds the foursome sequestered in a small grove of trees, off one of the less-used footpaths through Juuban Park. It's a pretty area, with a glimpse of the lake through the trees, but most importantly, there's almost no one anywhere nearby. "This is the place," Usagi announces.
[23:03] <Natsume> "Beautiful, how did you ever find this place, Tsukino-san?" Natsume asks.
[23:05] * Usagi-chan smiles. "I like taking walks through the park sometimes, and having a quiet place to yourself like this is kind of nice." She turns to Makoto. "Anyway, if you two want to talk for a few minutes I'm going to go get Chibi Usa started on her exercises, then I'll be back to help Natsume." With that, she leads Chibi Usa a few feet away, the two sitting down cross-legged on the grass as Usagi begins to speak to the little girl.
[23:06] * Makoto pauses, trying to think up of an appropriate topic for a conversation with someone she's just met. "So..." she starts after a brief pause. "You have a boyfriend?"
[23:09] <Natsume> "No, I haven't really had much time for a boyfriend," Natsume answers.
[23:11] <Natsume> "Tsukino-san mentioned that you spar, so I assume you are into martial arts," Natsume says. "What do you practice?"
[23:12] * Makoto shrugs. "Mostly karate, but it's mixed a lot with what I've found works from, uhm, street fights," Makoto says, not really sure just how much Natsume did know.
[23:15] <Natsume> "Ah, I see," Natsume says with a nod. "Well they say that a hand-to-hand fighter must be three times as skillful to fight against a swordsman. So you must be very skilled by what Tsukino-san said about you."
[23:17] * Makoto scratches her head. "I've actually never fought a swordsman, come to think of it. I'm not sure if Usagi isn't just being kind," Makoto replies.
[23:18] * Usagi-chan gives Chibi Usa a kiss on the top of her head, the girl's eyes closed as she concentrates on the exercises her mother has given her. "Everything going okay over here?" Usagi asks with a smile as she returns to the other two.
[23:19] <Makoto> "Yeah, we're just discussing who can beat each other up best," Makoto jokes. "Discussions over boyfriends didn't go over well."
[23:20] * Usagi-chan giggles. "Well, I expect I'd lose that one - I don't really have all that much formal training," Usagi admits. "Most of what I've picked up has been by accident more than anything."
[23:21] <Natsume> "Accident?" Natsume asks.
[23:21] * Usagi-chan shrugs. "I've gotten into a few scrapes, you could say - the little bit I know about fighting comes from that, really. I've had a little t'ai chi from a friend, but that's about it."
[23:22] <Makoto> "Experience goes a long way though."
[23:23] <Natsume> "I find it hard to believe anyone would want to fight you Tsukino-san," Natsume says. "You seem far too nice to get anyone that angry."
[23:24] * Usagi-chan grins wryly. "I seem to have a habit of finding trouble in the strangest places," she says, stifling a giggle. 'It's hard to say things without saying too much,' she says to Makoto mentally.
[23:26] <Natsume> "Well, I suppose you can't do much about bad luck," Natsume admits.
[23:26] <Makoto> 'No kidding. How much does she now anyhow? You never really went into that,' Makoto replies back in her head.
[23:27] <Usagi-chan> 'She knows that I know who the senshi are, but not a lot more than that. I wanted to give her enough to keep her interested,' Usagi replies, nodding to Natsume. "Have you ever been in a real fight before, Natsume?"
[23:28] <Natsume> "Ah, well, a few," Natsume answers. "Mostly with my grandfather, Ann, and whatever hooligans and miscreants who happen to cross my path. I've also been to a fair share of kendo competitions, though you can't really call those real fights."
[23:29] <Usagi-chan> "Well, Ann - and I'd imagine your grandfather - those are more like sparring, right? You know you're going to be fighting at times like that." Usagi asks.
[23:30] <Makoto> "You're also used somewhat to their fighting style at that," Makoto notes. "Admittedly, they know your moves as well, but there's a bit of predictability there."
[23:32] <Natsume> "Yes, you would be right about that," she responds. "Though grandfather rarely uses the same technique twice. He always stresses to be prepared for any situation."
[23:33] <Usagi-chan> 'Hope this works the way I planned it,' Usagi sends. "One thing about a real fight, though... you never know what's going to happen next!" With that, Usagi quickly produces an energy sword similar to Natsume's own, bringing it down at the swordswoman in an overhand swipe!
[23:33] <Usagi-chan> OOC: Dodge roll, +2 mod for surprise
[23:36] <Natsume> roll 2d6+2
[23:36] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6+2 and gets 8."
[23:39] <Usagi-chan> The glowing sword slices cleanly through Natsume's shoulder and down through her torso - with little more effect than a slight tingling sensation as it passes through her body. Usagi grins as the stroke completes, letting the sword fade away. "That was a little extreme, but I think you get the idea - you never know where to expect an attack from next."
[23:40] <Makoto> "I'd like to think I wouldn't be attacked by a friend, but point," Makoto replies, not really shaken up, having expected that somewhat from Usagi's mental statement prior to that act.
[23:45] * Natsume shivers as the distortion passes through her body.
[23:46] <Natsume> "Yes, you are right about that. I suppose my reflexes are not as keen as they should be," Natsume admits, then notices the sword that Usagi is holding. "You're able to make a sword as well?"
[23:47] * Usagi-chan makes the sword reappear. "This? First time I've made a sword, actually." She holds it up for inspection, the weapon glowing a pure white and shimmering slightly.
[23:51] <Natsume> "First... time?" Natsume manages to say. Suddenly all the effort she put in before she could craft her own seem like a trifle. "I see..."
[23:52] * Usagi-chan smiles. "Don't feel bad about it," Usagi says, guessing a bit of what Natsume's thinking from the look on her face. "I've had a lot of practice working with energy in general - to me, a sword's just another shape to make it into. It's all just a matter of practice."
[23:54] <Natsume> "Ah, well, that is true," she says, feeling a tiny bit consoled. "Though, my sword isn't nearly as... bright... as yours."
[23:54] * Natsume notes the shimmering white of her blade.
[23:54] <Usagi-chan> "Maybe not, but you have something I don't," Usagi says with a grin.
[23:54] <Natsume> "Oh?" she asks. "What would that be?"
[23:55] <Usagi-chan> "YOU know how to use a sword," she replies. "If it came down to you fighting me with a sword, it wouldn't matter if my sword is better than yours or not. You know how to use it right, and I don't - I don't doubt for a second that you'd beat me."
[23:57] <Makoto> 'Of course, that's assuming a sword battle,' Makoto says mentally, not wanting to put down Natsume any more than she seems to be already.
[23:58] <Natsume> "So, what will be my first lesson of the day, Tsukino-sensei?"
[00:00] * Usagi-chan smiles. "For now, something like what Chibi Usa is doing - learning to really get a feel for your own energy so you can use it better. The better you know what you have to draw from, the better you'll be able to use it when you need to."
[00:01] * Natsume looks back at Chibi-Usa...
[00:03] <Usagi-chan> Chibi Usa seems to be concentrating hard on her own exercises. Even as you watch, Usagi glances over herself a bit worriedly - and a visible, yellowish white aura springs up around the girl. "Be careful, Chibi Usa-chan," Usagi calls over. "You're going a little too high."
[00:03] <Usagi-chan> She looks up at Usagi, the aura fading almost immediately as she does so. "Sorry, Mommy," she says.
[00:04] * Makoto raises an eyebrow at that. 'Thought she only called you that when stressed. This that hard?'
[00:04] * Natsume WAS caught in shock by the aura, but that has been immediately replaced by Chibi-Usa addressing Usagi as 'mommy'.
[00:04] <Natsume> "M... mommy?" Natsume asks.
[00:04] <Makoto> "They're very close," Makoto says simply. "Right Usagi?"
[00:05] <Usagi-chan> "It's okay, Chibi Usa-chan," Usagi says with a smile. "Keep after it, you're doing really well so far." The girl nods, smiling at the praise as she goes back to whatever it was she was doing before.
[00:05] <Natsume> "That's a very... interesting way of showing it,"
[00:06] * Usagi-chan smiles wryly. "I remind her a lot of her mom," Usagi explains. "I don't really mind her calling me Mommy, even if it's not a hundred percent accurate."
[00:07] <Natsume> "Ah, I see," Natsume says, sounding relieved at not having stumbled into a very odd situation.
[00:09] <Usagi-chan> 'She's trying to fill herself with the Crystal's energy and then damp it down again,' Usagi explains to Makoto. 'It's mostly the damping down I'm interested in her learning - if she can learn to do that when she's upset, it might stop her from setting off those moonbeams.'
[00:10] <Usagi-chan> "Anyway, if you want to get started Natsume, start off by making your sword - let's see if you've improved it since the last time I saw it." Usagi smiles.
[00:11] * Natsume nods, takes her usual stance, and will her sword into existence.
[00:12] * Usagi-chan takes a critical look at the weapon, looking at the way the energy flows together to give it shape. "It's better than the last time," she says after a moment's inspection. "You're still using a lot more energy than you need to to make it though."
[00:15] <Natsume> "I see," Natsume replies, scanning the sword herself for a moment. "I never realized I was doing that..."
[00:16] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "It's hard to see it if you don't know what you're looking at," she replies. "Let's see if I can come up with a good way to describe it." She stops to think for a minute.
[00:20] * Makoto just looks on with some interest, but shortly after makes her departure with a wave, not wanting to interrupt the three in 'training'.
[00:21] <Usagi-chan> "It's sort of like... imagine a tube of toothpaste. To get enough out to brush your teeth, you only have to squeeze it a tiny bit - but you can still get enough out by squeezing the whole thing in your fist, you just waste a ton of it. What you're doing is kind of like that - it's like you're putting way too much effort into making it, when you really don't need to try quite so hard." Usagi explains.
[00:21] <Usagi-chan> "It's not just about raw power, it's about control, too."
[00:23] <Natsume> "Okay, but how do I know when enough is enough?"
[00:24] <Usagi-chan> "Part of it is just practice - but I'd say the first thing for you is learning to relax a little bit," Usagi says. "You don't have to be quite so eager - instead of putting everything you've got into making it appear, just relax a little bit and try to let it come to you more naturally."
[00:27] * Natsume dissipates the sword, then tries to put what Usagi said into practice. She relaxes, and then tries to recreate the sword without putting all her thought into willing it..
[00:28] <Usagi-chan> OOC: Soul check, no mod.
[00:29] <Natsume> roll 2d6
[00:29] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[00:31] <Usagi-chan> The sword flickers into existence again, considerably dimmer than before - but at the same time much more well-defined, the sloping surfaces of the blade clearly visible instead of the single plane of light that was apparent before.
[00:32] <Natsume> "I... it worked," Natsume says, blinking in surprise at the blade. "Amazing."
[00:33] * Usagi-chan nods. "You did really well - it looks a lot better now, don't you think? Maybe not quite as impressive to look at, but it's a lot sharper - and easier on you, too."
[00:34] <Natsume> "Yes, it is," she responds. "It actually feels a bit lighter."
[00:35] <Usagi-chan> "How does it feel as a sword? You're a better judge of that than I am." Usagi asks.
[00:40] <Natsume> "The grip is the same, but the balance is much better, and I said the weight had decreased as well," she says before taking a few practice slashes. "The blade feels sharper too, though I'd need to try on something to be a better judge."
[00:42] * Usagi-chan gestures to a couple of large stones standing around the glade. "Go ahead if you want to. I wouldn't cut the trees, but something like a rock should be okay."
[00:48] * Natsume approaches one of the stones and takes a practice swing.
[00:49] <Usagi-chan> The sword carves a neat gash through the rock, simply leaving a line behind it where the sword has passed through.
[00:53] <Natsume> "Excellent, my old sword wouldn't have been this precise,"
[00:54] <Usagi-chan> "Good, I'm glad it's working better," Usagi says, settling down on the grass. She gives Natsume a curious look. "Why are you so interested in getting your sword better though? Do you have something in particular you want to use it for?"
[00:56] <Natsume> "I want to make a sword that is able to cut down evil no matter its form. One that's strong enough to allow me to stand by the Sailor Senshi in their fight against darkness," she explains. "It's not just my sword, I want to be able to use my power to make myself stronger in general."
[00:58] * Usagi-chan shakes her head a bit, smiling. "Still think you can help out the senshi, huh?" She pauses for a moment. "How strong do you think you need to be?"
[01:02] <Natsume> "I can't say, really," she answers cryptically. "When I sparred against Ann, it was never really a contest, and she said she was on par with the senshi herself."
[01:02] * Natsume shrugs.
[01:03] <Natsume> "It may be impossible to gain the strength I need," Natsume admits. "But, I'll never know unless I try."
[01:04] <Usagi-chan> "She's about evenly matched with one senshi, I'd guess," Usagi agrees. "But why are you so determined to help them? I won't say it's not a really noble-sounding goal, but what makes you think you can BE a help to them? They don't even know you."
[01:08] <Natsume> "That may be true, but even so, I feel I have to do something," she explains. "They put their own lives on the line for people they don't know all the time. As a swordswoman, its also my duty to use my sword to protect the weak and defenseless."
[01:08] <Natsume> "I can't say whether I'll be of any real use to them or not, but sitting back on my laurels and doing nothing is far worse than that."
[01:09] <Usagi-chan> "So what will you do if you can't find them?" Usagi says curiously. "Just sit back and wait for some kind of trouble to help out with or something? Go out and try to help people on your own?"
[01:10] <Natsume> "If I can't find them, then I'll just have to use this power to fight against the evils of the world in my own way."
[01:11] <Usagi-chan> "What would you consider to be an evil you could fight, then? The kinds of monsters the senshi fight or something smaller?"
[01:14] <Natsume> "I guess that all depends on how far I progress," Natsume says with a slight chuckle. "Facing the demons the senshi seems to be a fair stretch at this point, but I hope to one day reach that level."
[01:14] <Natsume> "In the mean, I'll be content to striking the various hoodlums and malcontents that harrass the innocent students of Juuban Middle."
[01:15] <Usagi-chan> "With that?" Usagi points to the sword still in Natsume's hand. "You could really hurt someone with it if you're not careful."
[01:16] <Natsume> "Ah, well, not this obviously," Natsume corrects herself. "My bokuto is more than enough."
[01:18] <Usagi-chan> "You could even hurt someone with that," Usagi says. "Maybe not as badly as with a sharp sword, but you could still beat someone up with it pretty well if you tried."
[01:19] <Natsume> "I tend not to go that far, just enough that they get the message," she says. "All thats really needed most of the time is for someone to stand up to them."
[13:49] <Usagi-chan> "What if they don't back down though? Yeah, I know most bullies aren't really all that much trouble if you stand up to them, but sometimes you run into people that don't know when to walk away." Usagi counters.
[13:54] <Natsume> "In those cases, I do what I must," she answers with a sigh. "But only what I must, any further and I'm no better than the people I'm supposed to fighting against."
[13:55] <Natsume> "Now, I have a question for you, Tsukino-san," Natsume says. "Why are you suddenly so interested in knowing my motives?"
[13:56] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit at that. "I'm helping you get more power," she answers simply. "With power comes responsibility - I want to make sure what kind of person I'm giving that power to."
[13:57] <Natsume> "Hm, is that a foreign quote?" Natsume wonders outloud. "I'm sure I've heard it somewhere before..."
[13:58] <Usagi-chan> 'I've heard it from Luna WAY more times than I'd like,' Usagi thinks wryly. "I'm not sure where it comes from, but it's really true. It's something I have to pay attention to myself."
[13:59] <Natsume> "Well, I understand," Natsume says. "Its just that I've had others question me on this subject before. It seems to be coming up more often than normal recently."
[13:59] <Usagi-chan> "Really?" Usagi looks interested. "Who else has been talking to you about it besides me?"
[14:03] <Natsume> "My grandfather, Ann, and surprisingly enough, even my little sister somewhat," she answers. "The first two seemed to be roughly for the same reasons as yourself. Though in the case of my younger sister it was probably more to gauge my sanity."
[14:03] * Natsume sweatdrops at the last part.
[14:03] * Usagi-chan giggles. "Well, it IS kind of a big deal, really. You're a big fan of the senshi, right? What would you imagine it's like for them with their power?"
[14:07] <Natsume> "Certainly not easy, perhaps even painful," Natsume says. "But the fact that they continue fighting anyway is one of the reasons why I admire them so much."
[14:10] <Usagi-chan> "It's pretty hard - trying to make sure people stay safe from all those attacks, keeping people from getting caught in the crossfire when they fight - at least that's how I'd imagine it," she says, speeding through the last part. A flicker of pain shows on her face as she speaks again. "And sometimes even what they've tried hasn't been enough - there have been innocent people die in their battles before."
[14:13] <Natsume> "You sound as though you've been there with them..." Natsume notices.
[14:15] <Usagi-chan> "I..." Usagi pauses for a minute. "I've seen them fight more than a few times, yes," she says after a moment. "I'd say I probably know more about the battles they've fought than just about anyone else."
[14:18] <Natsume> "They must trust you quite a bit, how did you come to know them in the first place?"
[14:18] * Usagi-chan grins wryly. "Being in the right place at the right time, I guess is the best answer to that."
[14:26] <Natsume> "Oh, you're not as unlucky as I thought," Natsume says.
[14:27] <Usagi-chan> "Unlucky? Why would I be UNlucky?" Usagi asks, a bit puzzled.
[14:28] <Natsume> "Well, you mentioned earlier that you tend to get into bad situations," Natsume reminds her. "That's how you picked up what fighting skills you have."
[14:29] * Usagi-chan makes a face, leaning back on her elbows. "That's... not exactly bad luck," she says.
[14:31] <Natsume> "Its not?"
[14:32] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "It's not luck," she confirms, "but I'll leave it at that for now." She smiles a bit. "How long have you been a fan of the senshi?"
[14:35] <Natsume> "Since a little after they first became public," she recalls. "At that point there were only three of them I think."
[14:37] * Usagi-chan smiles wryly at that. "That would probably have been about a year ago now," Usagi says, thinking back a bit. "Sailor Moon was around for a few months before that by herself, but I don't think it was ever much more than gossip at that point."
[14:40] <Natsume> "Well, ever since then I've been doing my best to keep my ears open for any news about them," Natsume explains. "It tends to be scarce, they seem to do a pretty good job of avoiding the cameras."
[14:41] * Usagi-chan nods. "They work pretty hard on that," Usagi agrees. "They were pretty upset when that news footage of them at the market hit a couple of weeks back."
[14:45] <Natsume> "Anyway, I'm anxious to move on to the next step of the training," Natsume says. "The way you helped refine my sword was amazing."
[14:46] <Usagi-chan> "Well, you did really well yourself," Usagi says with a smile. "I didn't honestly expect you to get it on your first try."
[14:47] <Natsume> "I haven't had many problems when it comes to creating the sword," Natsume says. "Wielding it in battle has been another matter entirely though..."
[14:49] <Usagi-chan> "Well, if you want to try fighting me you can - or at least try hitting me with it. I'm... not exactly suited too well to fighting you like this, as I could do as much damage as Ann does if I'm not careful. But if you want to try hitting a moving target, that's fine with me."
[14:53] <Natsume> "Hehe, no thats fine," Natsume waves off the offer. "I feel it might be a bit too early for that."
[14:54] * Usagi-chan shrugs. "It's okay with me if you want to try it - I'm not too worried about you hurting me or anything, if that's what you're afraid of."
[14:57] <Natsume> "Let's just get back to the training," Natsume says flatly.
[14:58] <Usagi-chan> "Well, about the only other thing I have for you is learning to manipulate your sword better. I'm GUESSING from the look of it that you'd only be able to make something sword-like, but have you tried making it a knife or making it longer to begin with?"
[15:01] <Natsume> "Hm, no I haven't," Natsume says. "The thought never really crossed my mind."
[15:02] <Usagi-chan> "The form is pretty much fixed, I think - I'm not an expert on ki swords or anything, but it looks like the energy is pretty much forced to match that pattern. But there are all kinds of things with a handle and a blade. Why don't you try making something else?"
[15:05] <Natsume> "A handle and a blade..." she repeats.
[15:05] * Natsume closes her eyes and tries to imagine... a naginata.
[15:07] <Usagi-chan> OOC: Soul check, +3.
[15:08] <Natsume> roll 2d6+3
[15:08] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6+3 and gets 15."
[15:09] <Usagi-chan> There's a definite feeling of energy flowing out of you... and accomplishing absolutely nothing at all. (-15 EP)
[15:09] * Usagi-chan winces. "What were you trying to make?"
[15:10] <Natsume> "I was trying to form a naginata," Natsume says with a frown. "I guess I don't have enough experience with one to properly form it."
[15:11] <Usagi-chan> "I guess not - I'm not even sure what one IS," Usagi says. "Maybe something a little simpler?"
[15:13] * Natsume tries again, this time trying to imagine a... kodachi.
[15:14] <Usagi-chan> OOC: Soul check, +2 this time.
[15:15] <Natsume> roll 2d6+2
[15:15] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6+2 and gets 9."
[15:16] <Usagi-chan> You can just feel the weapon beginning to form in your hand, but it slips away from you at the last moment, not quite managing to hold its shape for more than a half-second or so.
[15:18] <Usagi-chan> "You've almost got it," Usagi says encouragingly. "I know it's kind of tricky, but keep at it - you're doing pretty good so far."
[15:18] <Natsume> "This is far more difficult than I thought it would be," Natsume says slightly winded.
[15:19] <Usagi-chan> "Just remember what I said before - relax and let it come to you, don't try to force it." Usagi replies.
[15:22] * Natsume tries something even smaller and simpler this time... a kunai. This time attempting to make herself as relaxed as possible.
[15:23] <Usagi-chan> OOC: Soul check again, +1 this time.
[15:24] <Natsume> roll 2d6+1
[15:24] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6+1 and gets 7."
[15:26] <Usagi-chan> With a slight wavering of energy, the short dagger appears in Natsume's hand, ready for use.
[15:28] * Natsume opens her eyes and sees the chi kunai in her hands
[15:28] <Natsume> "Hah, it worked!" Natsume exclaims.
[15:29] * Natsume throws it at a nearby tree to test it
[15:29] <Usagi-chan> OOC: Soul check, no mod.
[15:31] <Natsume> roll 2d6
[15:31] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[15:31] <Usagi-chan> The weapon flies out of Natsume's hand, embedding itself about halfway up the blade in the tree's trunk.
[15:31] * Usagi-chan seems rather impressed at that. "Not bad at all... I didn't think you'd be able to throw it."
[15:33] <Natsume> "Me neither, usually my sword vanishes when I let go of it,"
[15:33] <Natsume> "Hm, this time I'll try to make more than one..."
[15:34] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah, it takes a good amount of skill to make energy keep its shape when you're not contacting it directly," Usagi says with a nod, waiting to see what Natsume can do this time.
[15:34] <Usagi-chan> OOC: +1 mod for one, +3 mod for two, +6 mod for three.
[15:35] * Natsume tries to form two kunai, one in each hand
[15:35] <Natsume> roll 2d6+3
[15:35] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6+3 and gets 11."
[15:36] * Usagi-chan shakes her head a bit. "Try making them one at a time, instead of two at once," she suggests.
[15:37] <Natsume> "Eheh, I guess I was biting off more than I can chew..."
[15:38] <Usagi-chan> "Well, it's natural to want to try to move up fast. But sometimes it takes a lot of practice before you can really do it." Usagi nods at that.
[15:38] * Natsume takes Usagi's advice.
[15:39] <Natsume> roll 2d6+1
[15:39] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6+1 and gets 12."
[15:42] <Natsume> roll 2d6+1
[15:42] * Shai`Hulud --> "Natsume rolls 2d6+1 and gets 8."
[15:42] <Natsume> roll 2d6+1
[15:42] * Shai`Hulud --> "Natsume rolls 2d6+1 and gets 10."
[15:44] <Usagi-chan> One of the weapons forms in Natsume's right hand, but the other fails to take shape, the energy from the attempt dissipating quickly.
[15:44] <Natsume> "I suppose 1 is my limit for now," Natsume says.
[15:46] <Usagi-chan> "For now, maybe. But if you keep at it, it'll get easier - just like making your sword," Usagi says. "But try this for now. Instead of making the knife disappear, try to reshape it into your sword while it's still in your hand."
[15:48] <Natsume> "Hm, alright." Natsume relaxes and tries to envision the dagger lengthening and molding itself into a katana.
[15:50] <Usagi-chan> OOC: +1 mod.
[15:52] <Natsume> roll 2d6+1
[15:52] * Shai`Hulud --> "Natsume rolls 2d6+1 and gets 6."
[15:53] <Usagi-chan> The blade shimmers and elongates, quickly returning to the form of the familiar katana.
[15:57] <Natsume> "Perfect, I wasn't confident it would go so well."
[15:57] <Usagi-chan> "I'd say you're a pretty quick study," Usagi says. "You could definitely use a lot more practice, but then so could I - there's always stuff to improve on."
[15:59] <Natsume> "Thanks," Natsume says.
[22:22] * Usagi-chan stands up from her seated position on the grass, stretching a bit. "Anything else you want to try?" she asks.
[22:23] <Natsume> "Well, I suppose I have my hands full just forming kunai at the moment," Natsume laughs.
[22:24] <Natsume> "But, I've been curious," Natsume continues. "Ann is so strong and fast, though she doesn't look it. Was she able to do that with magic as well?"
[22:26] <Usagi-chan> "Some of it is magic, yes," Usagi agrees. "She can teleport herself from place to place, for one thing, which makes her look faster than she really is at times. I've never fought her directly myself, but she's probably a good deal stronger than I am physically normally - but then again, you probably are too."
[22:28] <Natsume> "Ah, magic is so much more versatile than I imagined," Natsume says. "How do you think it will take before I would be able to teleport? If it all possible."
[22:29] <Usagi-chan> "Teleportation's one of the hardest things to learn, honestly," Usagi says apologetically. "Especially any kind that's useful in a fight - I can do it myself, but it's too slow to really use in combat. Does make it handy when I'm running late to school though," she finishes with a giggle.
[22:30] <Natsume> "I would imagine," Natsume agrees. "I've been meaning to ask, who taught you magic? You seem quite strong with it yourself."
[22:32] * Usagi-chan shrugs. "No one, really. A lot of what I know is pretty much self-taught; I learned a few basic principles from an old friend, but I really had to learn how to use them on my own."
[22:34] <Natsume> "Once I have mastered shaping my power, what will come next?"
[22:36] <Usagi-chan> "Practice, mostly - getting things to a point where you can summon your sword without even having to think about it," Usagi replies. Just as she finishes, though, a small frown crosses her face, and she glances around the grove.
[22:38] <Natsume> "Is there a problem, Tsukino-san?" Natsume asks, noticing her sudden change in attitude.
[22:41] <Usagi-chan> "Not sure, I thought I-" Unfortunately, the blonde is cut off as a plume of dark purple smoke practically explodes out of Natsume's 'practice stone', quickly forming into something that looks to be half-woman, half-serpent. "Naga!" it screeches, glaring balefully at Natsume!
[22:44] <Natsume> "W... what in the world!"
[22:45] * Usagi-chan drops into a crouch, looking back at Chibi Usa. "Get out of here, Chibi Usa!" she yells. The child's head snaps up at that, going wide-eyed as she catches sight of the serpent. She quickly obeys, scrambling up the side of the hill away from Usagi and Natsume.
[22:45] <Usagi-chan> OOC: Initiative
[22:47] <Usagi-chan> roll 1d6+9
[22:47] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 1d6+9 and gets 15."
[22:47] <Usagi-chan> roll 1d6
[22:47] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[22:47] <Natsume> roll 1d6+7
[22:47] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 1d6+7 and gets 11."
[22:49] * Usagi-chan places her palms together, facing the serpent with a grimace on her features. As she does so, a bolt of pure white light erupts from them to strike the foul creature!
[22:49] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[22:49] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[22:50] <Usagi-chan> But it sails harmlessly to the side, impacting against one of the trees in the grove with a shower of leaves.
[22:51] * Natsume focuses her power and forms her chi katana (-10 EP, and takes 1 round's action)
[22:55] <Usagi-chan> The serpent lashes out with its tail just as the sword springs into life, swinging it at the swordswoman!
[22:55] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[22:55] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[22:55] <Natsume> roll 2d6
[22:55] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[22:56] <Usagi-chan> But Natsume dodges out of the way nimbly, the purple scales impacting on the ground with a resounding thump.
[22:56] <Usagi-chan> OOC: Reactions if any, then initiative.
[22:57] <Natsume> "What is this thing?! Where did it come from?!" Natsume yells after just barely dodging the attack.
[22:58] <Usagi-chan> "Don't look at me, I have no idea!" Usagi shouts back. The demon just hisses, preparing to attack again!
[22:58] <Usagi-chan> roll 1d6+9
[22:58] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 1d6+9 and gets 14."
[22:58] <Usagi-chan> roll 1d6
[22:58] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[22:58] <Natsume> roll 1d6+7
[22:58] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 1d6+7 and gets 9."
[22:59] * Usagi-chan stands her ground, repeating her action of a few moments before as another bolt of energy lances out to strike the creature!
[23:04] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[23:04] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[23:04] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[23:04] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[23:07] <Usagi-chan> This time the bolt strikes true, impacting against the female serpent's chest with an audible smack as it's knocked back several feet. It growls, though, lashing out with a sharp claw at the blonde in retaliation.
[23:07] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[23:07] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[23:08] <Usagi-chan> Unfortunately it misses, only scoring a series of gashes in the ground, wisps of smoke rising from them.
[23:09] * Natsume charges forward with a wide slash at the creature's midsection
[23:09] <Natsume> roll 2d6
[23:09] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[23:10] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[23:10] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[23:11] <Usagi-chan> But the serpent twists out of the way, Natsume's strike going wide!
[23:11] <Usagi-chan> OOC: Reactions if any, then init again.
[23:12] <Natsume> "This demon is swift!" Natsume snarls after her missed attack.
[23:12] <Natsume> roll 1d6+7
[23:12] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 1d6+7 and gets 8."
[23:12] <Usagi-chan> roll 1d6+9
[23:12] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 1d6+9 and gets 13."
[23:12] <Usagi-chan> roll 1d6
[23:12] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[23:14] <Usagi-chan> The foul creature turns its attention back to Natsume, once again flicking its tail at the kendoist!
[23:14] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[23:14] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[23:14] <Natsume> roll 2d6
[23:14] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[23:15] <Usagi-chan> The tail swiftly wraps around Natsume, pinning her arms to her sides as it constricts her painfully! (15 damage, and you're trapped)
[23:17] <Usagi-chan> "Natsume!" Usagi shouts, running up to kick the demon's tail and hopefully get it to release Natsume.
[23:17] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[23:17] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[23:17] <Usagi-chan> But her aim is poor, the roundhouse kick missing Naga by inches.
[23:18] <Natsume> roll 2d6+2
[23:18] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6+2 and gets 9."
[23:21] * Natsume struggles mightily in an attempt to break the creatures hold.
[23:22] <Usagi-chan> And just barely manages to do so, Naga hissing angrily as Natsume breaks free.
[23:24] <Natsume> "Its tail alone nearly crushed every bone in my body," Natsume says while breathing heavily. "Its strength is terrifying!"
[23:24] <Natsume> roll 1d6+7
[23:24] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 1d6+7 and gets 11."
[23:25] * Usagi-chan grimaces, looking rather torn as she watches the serpent. It lets loose with another earsplitting screech as she does so, readying itself to attack again!
[23:25] <Usagi-chan> roll 1d6+9
[23:25] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 1d6+9 and gets 12."
[23:25] <Usagi-chan> roll 1d6
[23:25] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[23:26] <Usagi-chan> "Just go AWAY!" Usagi shouts, firing off another beam of pure energy at the vile creature.
[23:26] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[23:26] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[23:26] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[23:26] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[23:26] <Usagi-chan> Again the bolt impacts with a thud, the creature seemingly undeterred from the powerful shot.
[23:28] <Natsume> "DIE MONSTER!" Natsume screams as she leaps up and comes back down with an overhead slash.
[23:28] <Natsume> roll 2d6
[23:28] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6 and gets 12."
[23:29] <Usagi-chan> But the girl trips headlong, the sword vanishing from her hands as she lands on the ground with a thud!
[23:31] <Usagi-chan> The foul being seizes the opportunity, diving towards Natsume with its claws outstretched! "Nagaaaa!" it yells triumphantly.
[23:31] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[23:31] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[23:31] <Natsume> roll 2d6+1
[23:31] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6+1 and gets 5."
[23:31] <Usagi-chan> But once again it misses, leaving only a series of deep gashes in the earth mere inches away from Natsume!
[23:32] * Usagi-chan looks to be having a fierce mental debate, glancing back and forth between Natsume and the monster as her companion rights herself once again.
[23:33] <Natsume> "How could I be so careless..." Natsume chastizes herself for her blunder.
[23:33] <Natsume> roll 1d6+7
[23:33] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 1d6+7 and gets 11."
[23:33] <Usagi-chan> roll 1d6+9
[23:33] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 1d6+9 and gets 11."
[23:33] <Usagi-chan> roll 1d6
[23:33] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[23:35] <Usagi-chan> The creature doesn't even pause at the failed attempt, bringing its tail around once again to try to trap Natsume!
[23:35] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[23:35] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[23:37] <Natsume> roll 2d6+1
[23:37] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6+1 and gets 10."
[23:37] <Usagi-chan> Once again the demon's tail wraps around Natsume, squeezing the life out of her! (15 damage)
[23:38] * Natsume once again struggles to break the creature's grip!
[23:38] <Natsume> roll 2d6+2
[23:38] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6+2 and gets 6."
[23:39] <Usagi-chan> Again she manages to break free of the constricting grip, panting with the exertion!
[23:41] * Usagi-chan scowls, glaring angrily at the creature. "That's it, I'm done!" Her hand disappears momentarily, reappearing a split second later with a large golden brooch in it, the image of a cup imprinted on the outside. Usagi raises it aloft, shouting out the words "Moon Purity Power, Make UP!"
[23:41] * Usagi-chan appears to be surrounded by glowing light, ribbons and feathers of the purest white surrounding her in the uniform of the sailor-suited soldier of Love and Justice, Sailor Moon!
[23:42] <Sailor_Moon> OOC: Reactions, then init.
[23:46] <Natsume> "Tsu... Tsukino... san..." Natsume mumbles. She can barely fathom what is happening right before her eyes.
[23:46] <Natsume> roll 1d6+7
[23:46] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 1d6+7 and gets 10."
[23:46] * Sailor_Moon ignores the swordswoman, her angry stare fixed firmly on the half-serpent still looking for a fight.
[23:47] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[23:47] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 13."
[23:47] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6
[23:47] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[23:49] <Sailor_Moon> "I was TRYING to have a peaceful afternoon, but you had to come along and ruin that! I don't know who you are or where you came from, but in the name of the Moon, I'll punish you!" Moon poses as her speech rings through the afternoon air.
[23:50] * Sailor_Moon produces a long, ornate staff from... somewhere. Moving it in an intricate pattern around herself, she drops into a crouch, vivid pink hearts lancing from its tip towards Naga as she cries out "Rainbow Moon Heartache!"
[23:50] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[23:50] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[23:50] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[23:50] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[23:50] * Natsume just stares dumbfounded, her brain trying to make the connection of a girl she just met transforming into her idol...
[23:51] <Sailor_Moon> The creature screeches in agony as the attack slams into it, striking out at the sailor-suited heroine with its claws extended!
[23:51] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[23:51] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[23:52] <Sailor_Moon> But the attack staggers it badly, the swipe meeting only the air!
[23:56] * Natsume mentally pushes back the shock for now, opting to kill the demon first and ask questions later.
[23:58] * Natsume runs forward and leaps into the air, aiming a flying kick at the creature
[23:58] <Natsume> roll 2d6
[23:58] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[23:58] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[23:58] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[23:59] <Sailor_Moon> To Natsume's surprise, she flies right through the serpent as if it were merely smoke, landing unsteadily on the ground on the far side of it from Moon.
[23:59] <Sailor_Moon> "Stay out of the way!" Usagi yells, still holding her attack against the creature.
[00:00] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[00:00] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 18."
[00:01] <Natsume> "W... what just happened?" Natsume wonders in disbelief.
[00:01] <Natsume> roll 1d6+7
[00:01] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 1d6+7 and gets 12."
[00:01] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6
[00:01] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[00:03] * Sailor_Moon grits her teeth, maintaining the powerful stream of energy as it continues to hammer against the foul creature.
[00:03] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[00:03] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 2."
[00:03] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6
[00:03] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[00:03] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+3
[00:03] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+3 and gets 14."
[00:04] <Sailor_Moon> With a flare of brilliant pink light, the attack seems to explode from the end of Moon's staff, completely obliterating the serpent! It disappears in a shower of dust, which falls back to the ground in a gentle shower.
[00:07] * Sailor_Moon lowers her staff, her chest heaving with exertion as the creature is vanquished.
[00:07] <Natsume> "Amazing..." Natsume whispers as she watches the spectacle.
[00:13] <Natsume> "Tsukino... san," finally says. "You... you're... when did... how did..." she finally says.
[00:15] * Sailor_Moon sighs deeply, the staff disappearing mere moments before her fuku evaporates as well.
[00:15] <Usagi-chan> As she does so, Chibi Usa comes running out of the trees, clamping onto the blonde's leg. "Mommy, are you okay?"
[00:16] * Usagi-chan smiles at the little girl. "I'm all right, Chibi Usa-chan, just a little tired. No real harm done."
[00:18] * Usagi-chan glances up at Natsume for a moment, her expression unreadable as she takes a seat on the grass once again. Chibi Usa wastes no time in climbing into her lap, hugging the older girl fiercely.
[00:18] <Natsume> "You're... Sailor Moon. You're Sailor Moon," Natsume repeats. "YOU'RE SAILOR MOON!!!"
[00:19] <Usagi-chan> "Not so loud!" Usagi hisses. "I don't want the world to know, all right?"
[00:21] <Natsume> "Ah, I'm sorry!" Natsume says quickly before slapping her hands over her mouth.
[00:22] * Usagi-chan takes a deep sigh. "This is NOT how I pictured you finding out about it," she grumbles. "Stupid monster."
[00:22] <Natsume> 'Ah! WhaddoIdowhaddoIdowhaddoIdo?!' Natsume's mind races. 'I never expected to actually meet her! I can't just stand here gawking like a fool!'
[00:23] <Usagi-chan> "Calm down, I don't bite any more now than I did fifteen minutes ago," Usagi says with a sigh - Natsume's expression is like an open book.
[00:23] <Natsume> "But that was... this is... how did..." Natsume mumbles incoherently.
[00:24] * Natsume slaps herself... and visibly begins to calm down...
[00:25] * Usagi-chan simply waits for Natsume to get hold of herself, bracing herself for the storm of questions she knows are on their way.
[00:27] <Natsume> "All this time... I never even guessed," Natsume says, the first coherent thing she's said in the past few minutes. "Were you ever going to tell me?"
[00:28] <Usagi-chan> "That was going to depend on you," Usagi replies, giving Natsume a measured look. "It's pretty rare that I tell anyone, and I would have waited a good while to make sure you were trustworthy before I decided to let you know if I'd had the choice. This isn't something I can really risk becoming public knowledge."
[00:29] <Natsume> "Ah, I suppose my outburst didn't help with that," Natsume sighs.
[00:30] <Usagi-chan> "Not really, but we're far enough away from most of the traffic here that it shouldn't cause any problems." Usagi gives her companion another unreadable look. "What do you plan on doing now that you know?"
[00:33] <Natsume> "This is... I mean this is just too much," Natsume says. "All this time... I've been conversing with my hero, its just... unbelieveable..."
[00:34] <Usagi-chan> "Take your time... if it helps, I'm not any different a person now than I was before you knew, all right? I'm still the same Usagi you met last week." The blonde runs one hand through her hair, looking rather tired.
[00:34] <Natsume> "As much as I would like to scream from the rooftops that I know Sailor Moon, I trust that would be the worst course of action I could take," Natsume laughs nervously.
[00:35] * Usagi-chan nods to that. "You'd get a visit from us pretty quick if you did," Usagi agrees. "The last thing we need is a ton of publicity about who we are - we have enough problems to deal with without having that on top of them."
[00:35] * Natsume sighs again and she sits down on the grass herself. "When... how did it happen?" Natsume finally asks.
[00:37] <Usagi-chan> "Middle of last March," Usagi replies, running her fingers through Chibi Usa's hair gently. The little girl seems to have calmed down considerably, still holding onto Usagi tightly though. "I got awakened as Sailor Moon and told I was supposed to start fighting youma."
[00:41] <Natsume> "I see. What about the others? Have I inadvertantly met any of them?"
[00:44] <Usagi-chan> "I'd rather not say," Usagi says evasively. "It's bad enough that I had to blow my cover, I'd like to keep the damage as small as I can for now. You may meet the others sometime, I'll say that much - but we'll have to see how things go."
[00:46] <Natsume> "I understand," Natsume says quietly. "Heh, I feel ashamed. I thought I would put on a much better performance when I finally met a sailor senshi."
[00:48] * Usagi-chan smiles wryly. "It's about the same one we usually get," she replies. "This isn't the first time someone's had to find out about it, and most people can barely believe it when they do. My parents both passed out when I finally told them."
[00:51] <Natsume> "Eheh, trust me, its taking alot of focus for me not to do the same," Natsume says.
[00:51] * Usagi-chan giggles a bit at that.
[00:52] <Natsume> "That attack you used... something something... Heartache was it?" Natsume tries to remember. "That was... beautiful..."
[00:54] <Usagi-chan> "Beautiful?" Usagi says, sounding a bit surprised. "Never heard anyone describe it like that before."
[00:57] <Natsume> "Well, I suppose anything you do would be beautiful," Natsume laughs, before realizing what she just said and clamping her hands over her mouth again.
[00:57] <Natsume> "That... came out wrong..." she says meekly.
[00:58] * Usagi-chan blinks in surprise. "Um... yeah," she says, scratching her head a bit.
[01:00] <Natsume> "Anyway... I should probably be heading home... my grandfather is probably wondering where I am," she says. "Yeah..."
[01:01] * Usagi-chan nods. "All right... give me a call if you want to set up another meeting," Usagi replies. "I AM still serious about helping you learn if that's what you want, but it's up to you."
[01:03] <Natsume> "Yes, of course!" Natsume blurts abruptly. "I mean... yes, I still want to learn."
[01:04] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit at that. "Glad to hear it," she says. "You've got a lot of potential, Natsume."
[01:06] <Natsume> "Th... thank you," Natsume says, smiling and blushing. "Thank you very much!"
[01:07] <Usagi-chan> "You don't need to thank me for anything," Usagi says, still smiling. "I just call it the way I see it."
[01:11] * Natsume bows deeply before retrieving her belongings and heading in the general direction of her home.
[01:11] * Natsume stops when she is a bit away and stares blankly into the sky.
[01:12] <Natsume> "I know Sailor Moon," she say to herself. The words sounding so... odd. "Huh..."
[01:12] * Natsume continues on her way.

[15:29] <Rei-chan> ----------
[15:34] <Rei-chan> Early Sunday afternoon finds Rei Hino sitting on a bench near the middle of Juuban Park, dressed in her cute and extremely short-skirted red dress, enjoying the bright sunshine and sunny blue skies as she watches a myriad of people about her doing much the same - most of them couples. 'Hope Usagi isn't late,' she thinks, glancing up at a nearby clock, as she hopes to join the ranks of couples enjoying this day soon enough.
[15:36] <Usagi-chan> Unfortunately, several more minutes pass before the blonde in question appears, about ten minutes after the point at which Rei had asked her to arrive. She arrives at a full run, stopping and puffing a bit as she approaches the bench where Rei sits. "Sorry... I'm late..." she pants.
[15:37] <Rei-chan> "I'm used to it," Rei sighs, standing up. "At least you're here now. Did you have any trouble?"
[15:39] * Usagi-chan nods, still catching her breath. "Chibi Usa... caught me at the door, wanted to come along. Took me a few minutes to explain that I wanted to have some time to myself this afternoon," Usagi says, an apologetic look on her face. "I was pushing it for time before that, but with that on top of everything else I just couldn't make it in time."
[15:40] <Rei-chan> "I hope she wasn't too upset," Rei says, taking Usagi's hand and guiding her to sit down as she does the same.
[15:41] <Usagi-chan> "She was a little disappointed... but I promised to take her out for ice cream after school tomorrow to make up for it," Usagi says as she takes a seat.
[15:43] * Rei-chan nods, leaning back as the August sun beats down on them. "That's good. I don't want her to think I'm monopolising all of your time, but..." she gives Usagi a slightly lopsided grin, "We don't get much time ourselves just to spend a free afternoon together like this."
[15:46] <Usagi-chan> "I know," Usagi says with a wry smile of her own. "I love her a lot, but I'm trying not to let her take over my life completely. It's just that it can be kind of hard sometimes - but you're definitely worth the effort." She lets one hand rest on Rei's thigh, giving the other girl a gentle smile.
[15:48] <Rei-chan> "I like to think so," Rei agrees amiably, leaning a little bit closer to Usagi - although not as close as she'd like, mindful of their public location. "Still, at least the weather's on our side today," she adds with a smile, enjoying the fierce heat of the sun on her skin.
[15:50] <Usagi-chan> "It's a little hotter than I'd like," Usagi replies, herself clad in an airy light green sundress that reaches her knees. "I'd rather be out swimming in weather like this, but it beats a rainstorm, that's for sure."
[15:52] <Rei-chan> "The beach is out - I'd rather not spend a few hours like sardines on the train before going to a just as crowded seashore, thanks. But..." she looks a little thoughtful as she considers something, "We could stop by Mugen later and use the pool there. We'd have it all to ourselves, too."
[15:54] <Usagi-chan> "That could be fun," Usagi says brightly. "I haven't been swimming just for fun in a while - just in PE, even if you and I usually DO get to goof off in the pool for that." She smirks at that.
[15:56] <Rei-chan> "We can stop by in a bit, then," Rei agrees, standing up now that Usagi's had some time to catch her breath and offering the blonde a hand. "For now, though, how about something cold to eat?" she gestures over at a small stand selling ice cream, slushes, and other frozen treats.
[15:57] <Usagi-chan> "Since when have you ever known me to turn down ice cream?" Usagi says with a grin, allowing Rei to help her up.
[15:59] * Rei-chan furrows her brow, trying to come up with one example just to prove her wrong. Sadly, she draws a blank. "Not as long as I've known you," she admits, heading over. There's a small line, but they soon reach the head, and Rei gets herself a cone of raspberry ripple ice cream, daintily licking the already melting confection as she hands over some yen.
[16:01] * Usagi-chan orders a double scoop of mint chocolate chip, doing much the same as Rei as she hurries to keep the frozen sweet from dripping all over her hand in the midsummer heat. "Going to have to eat in a hurry or this won't be anything but a puddle!" she exclaims, licking a drop of melted ice cream off the back of her hand.
[16:04] * Rei-chan nods as the pair walk away from the stand, but is quick to lick up any ice cream that comes near to dripping off her own cone. Once the ice cream is reduced to a more managable level, she notes the results of Usagi's rapid eating and flushes darkly. "Usagi, your mouth," she whispers, looking away to hide her blush as she hands over a paper napkin that came with her cone.
[16:05] <Usagi-chan> "What? Is it THAT big a mess?" She accepts the napkin, wiping off the sticky ring of green ice cream from around her mouth as best she can. "I didn't think I was THAT bad... did I get it all?"
[16:08] <Rei-chan> Looking up, Rei nods. "It wasn't a HUGE mess, but... y'know..." she shrugs helplessly, before distracting herself with what's left of her own ice cream, her tongue flicking out to lap up what she can before biting into the wafer cone itself to get the rest.
[16:11] * Usagi-chan blushes. "Sorry, I was just in a hurry... ack!" Unfortunately, the inattentive blonde's pause gave the ice cream enough time to melt a bit more, and the top scoop of the cone plops to the sidewalk just as she raises it to her mouth again. "Aw man, I HATE that!"
[16:12] <Rei-chan> Sighing, Rei steps away quickly lest the falling ice cream spatter her shoes. "At least you got a double scoop... although if you'd only had one it wouldn't have happened..." she notes, finishing off the last of her cone amd dabbing at her lips with the remaining napkin.
[16:14] * Usagi-chan attacks the rest of the ice cream with a fury, determined not to lose any more to the hot afternoon sun. "Well... I thought I could eat it fast enough that it wouldn't happen!" she says, polishing off the last of the sugary cone and licking her fingers off.
[16:16] <Rei-chan> "You probably would have if I hadn't stopped you to stop you making a mess," Rei says, sounding just a little bit apologetic. "Oh, well," she dismisses the matter anyway, taking Usagi's hand as the pair begin to meander around the park.
[16:17] <Usagi-chan> "It's okay, I wouldn't want to embarrass you by running around looking like a mess anyway," Usagi admits, blushing a bit. "I know I'm not always polite about eating."
[16:20] <Rei-chan> "No, you're not," Rei doesn't even try to dispute that, although she only states it as a fact rather than scolding the blonde. Cresting a small hill, they come into view of the lake that occupies a good half of the park, it a deep azure and showing a few puffy white clouds reflected in the sky, the reflection marred by the dozen or so boats drifting around it.
[16:22] * Usagi-chan falls silent as the two come upon the idyllic view, a smile crossing her face slowly as she looks out across the magnificent view. "So beautiful," she whispers, simply staring at the sight for a minute.
[16:23] <Rei-chan> "It is, isn't it?" Rei smiles herself, stopping as she and her girlfriend simply stand there, taking in the wonderful summer day.
[16:25] * Usagi-chan takes Rei's hand after a moment, giving it a small squeeze as the two enjoy the picturesque scene. "This feels like a perfect day, Rei-chan. Calm, and peaceful, and I get to be with the one I love most."
[16:26] <Rei-chan> Squeezing her hand back, Rei nods, feeling more than a little emotional at Usagi's words. "Yeah..." she says softly. "Days likes this make all the rest worth it."
[16:27] * Usagi-chan waits just like that for a few more minutes, simply enjoying the day, before she speaks again. "You want to go rent a boat, Rei-chan?"
[16:30] <Rei-chan> "Sure, Usagi. I'd like that," Rei agrees, feeling rather tranquil and content right now. Standing for a moment longer, just to really fix it in her memory, she leads Usagi down to the small boating pier, handing over enough money to the attendant for them to rent a boat for a half hour.
[16:32] * Usagi-chan takes the oars, since Rei paid for the boat. A little fumbling with them is the first order of business, but soon enough she gets the hang of it, and within a minute or two she's sculled the pair out into the lake, their only nearby companions a group of ducks paddling around on its surface.
[16:36] <Rei-chan> As Usagi paddles, Rei leans back, letting a hand trail through the cool water off the side as she stares into the intense blue sky. Once they're out and away from the shore, she looks up, "Just let it drift now, Usagi," she asks, beckoning the blonde to come sit with her.
[16:38] * Usagi-chan does so quite happily, letting the oars hang in their locks as she moves over to sit next to the raven-haired beauty. "As you command, m'lady," she says with a giggle, snuggling up next to Rei.
[16:40] <Rei-chan> "Call me captain, Sailor," Rei replies with an amused snort, quite happily reciprocating the snuggling while propping her legs up on Usagi's former seat.
[16:40] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah, but you're a Sailor too... captain," Usagi retorts with a grin, one arm around the miko's waist.
[16:42] <Rei-chan> "Then I'll paddle us on the way back," Rei says lazily, resting a hand on Usagi's stomach as the pair relax under the sun, comfortable in each other's arms.
[16:43] <Usagi-chan> "We really should try to do this more often," Usagi says softly, letting her head rest against Rei's shoulder. "Just go out and enjoy a quiet afternoon together, without having to worry about anything else."
[16:46] <Rei-chan> "There's a lot to be said for it," Rei murmurs, nodding gently so as not to jostle Usagi's head. "Even without saving the world, we're kept so busy with school, the Shrine, and the Moon... days like this just aren't common enough."
[16:47] * Usagi-chan nods, her thoughts turning on Rei's words. "I hope we'll be able to have days like this on the Moon someday," she says absently. "Once everything's fixed up, I mean - just a lazy afternoon where we can go out and enjoy ourselves."
[16:51] <Rei-chan> "We managed to have days like this on the Moon back in our old lives. Even if we didn't spend them with each other," Rei comments, slightly amused. "Of course, we also had a lot less work to do back then than we'll probably have in the future. But we'll make it work, I know it," she finishes, giving Usagi's shoulder a soft squeeze.
[16:53] <Usagi-chan> "I know - and I won't ever let myself get so busy that I don't stop to make time for you," Usagi says, giving the taller girl a smile. "But I have to admit, I like to daydream about what it's going to be like when everything's finished - I know it'll be a busy life, but to have a place of our own that we made ourselves - that just seems like it'll be so awesome." The blonde has a rather distant look in her eyes, lost in her own imaginings.
[16:54] <Rei-chan> "Yeah... a beautiful kingdom that we made with our own hands," Rei smiles distantly at that. "I'll be proud to live there." Her smile turns slightly melancholy as she thinks, 'Even with what I'll have to leave behind...'
[16:55] * Usagi-chan rubs Rei's thigh at that thought, a sad smile on her face. "That'll be the hardest part - I love it here, too. I think I'll come back to visit as often as I can. Just because I want to live on the Moon doesn't mean I don't want to spend time here on Earth, too."
[16:58] * Rei-chan nods sadly. "I'll work hard to make the Moon the kind of place I'd be happy to call home, but... it doesn't change how I feel about where I grew up. I..." she sighs, not really liking the direction of her thoughts, "I still haven't talked to Grandpa about what'll happen to the Shrine."
[17:00] <Usagi-chan> "You'll still be able to take care of it, Rei-chan," Usagi says, trying to reassure her love. "Maybe you won't live there and be the priestess, but you can always keep an eye on how things are going there, and get to know the people that WILL be there."
[17:02] <Rei-chan> "I guess... when you put it like that, it doesn't sound so bad." Rei angles her head and gives Usagi a small kiss on her forehead, smiling at the blonde. "You're always good at helping me feel better. I should have mentioned something sooner."
[17:04] * Usagi-chan smiles back. "I always want you to be happy, Rei-chan. I'm just glad I'm good at helping you when you're feeling down."
[17:07] <Rei-chan> "You're wonderful at it, too," Rei adds, sitting up. "I think we're nearly out of time. I'll get us back." Sliding her hand down to Usagi's thigh and giving a small squeeze, she scoots round to the opposite seat and begins manipulating the oars to paddle them back to the pier.
[17:08] * Usagi-chan squeaks in surprise at Rei's sudden action. "Rei-chan! You're terrible!" she mock scolds.
[17:10] <Rei-chan> "Oh, hush," Rei sticks her tongue out briefly. "I wouldn't do it if you didn't like it."
[17:10] * Usagi-chan decides not to dispute the point, simply replying in kind. "Bidaaaah!"
[17:12] <Rei-chan> Grinning as she notes the lack of argument, Rei docks their rowboat at the pier, stepping off and offering her hand to Usagi.
[17:14] * Usagi-chan lets Rei help her out of the boat, although she stumbles right into the miko's arms, the boat tipping while she only has one foot in it. "Gah!"
[17:15] <Rei-chan> Luckily Rei had already braced herself, and is quite easily able to support the unbalanced Moon Princess, gently pulling her up and righting her. "Careful, Usagi," she remonstrates softly, still holding the blonde in her arms.
[17:17] <Usagi-chan> "Stupid boat," the blonde grouses, although she makes no move to detach herself from Rei's embrace in a hurry. Finally separating from the dark-haired girl a few moments later, she gives her love a smile. "Thanks, Rei-chan - that was nice."
[17:18] <Rei-chan> "It was, wasn't it?" Rei nods, more than satisfied with the day so far as she takes Usagi's hand, leading her back onto solid ground. "And the day's still young, too."
[17:20] * Usagi-chan smiles secretively. "And now it's my turn for a surprise," she says, taking Rei's hand as she leads her up and away from the lake along one of the many meandering footpaths through the park.
[17:21] <Rei-chan> "It is?" Rei looks briefly surprised as she follows Usagi along, wondering what her girlfriend has in mind.
[17:22] <Usagi-chan> It's about a five minute walk to the spot Usagi has picked out, a secluded clump of trees on a hillside overlooking the lake - the same spot where she 'trained' Natsume and Chibi Usa the day before. "Now, close your eyes," Usagi says sweetly.
[17:24] * Rei-chan gives Usagi a slightly dubious look at her tone, but nonetheless complies with the request.
[17:25] <Usagi-chan> Rei can hear Usagi moving around her for a couple of minutes, as well as the rustle of fabric. As the sounds stop, the miko gets a light kiss on the lips, followed by the sound of a giggling Usagi. "Okay, you can open them again."
[17:26] * Rei-chan does so, wondering what that rustle of fabric meant...
[17:27] <Usagi-chan> On the ground is a soft flannel blanket, decorated with a few paper plates and sandwiches. Two cups adorn the blanket as well, and a thermos bottle sits next to them, what looks to be cold green tea inside it.
[17:28] <Rei-chan> "You made a picnic?" Rei asks, smiling at the pleasant surprise. Wait... "YOU made a picnic?"
[17:29] * Usagi-chan nods, blushing a bit. "By myself, too - well, Mom told me how, and Chibi Usa helped me a little with the sandwiches, but I put it all together myself."
[17:31] <Rei-chan> "Ah," 'That's good. Mrs Tsukino would know what she's doing,' she thinks, relieved as she sits down and picks up a sandwhich, biting into it.
[17:32] * Usagi-chan makes a face. "I know I'm not a very good cook, but I tried a little of everything before I made it - that's part of why I was late, the first batch of chicken salad didn't turn out so well." The blonde blushes at that, sitting down on the blanket and pouring a cup of tea for the miko.
[17:33] <Rei-chan> "Well, it all seems good, now," Rei smiles, holding her half-eaten sandwich. "This sure is a nice surprise," she adds, leaning on her side on the blanket as she surveys the spread.
[17:35] * Usagi-chan smiles. "I'm glad you like it," she says happily. "When you asked me to come to the park today, I thought a picnic lunch would be a really nice touch." She picks up one of the other sandwiches, starting in on it herself.
[17:36] <Rei-chan> "It definitely was a good idea," Rei nods, taking the tea Usagi just poured and having a sip before finishing her sandwich.
[17:39] <Usagi-chan> "This is my favorite spot at the park, too," Usagi says with a smile, laying back on her elbows as she looks down at the lake through the trees. "Nice and quiet, lots of shade, and the view's not too bad, either." She takes another bite of her sandwich, going slowly for once as she enjoys the fruits of her labor.
[17:40] <Rei-chan> "It is nice here," Rei nods. "Peaceful," she adds, taking another sip of tea before stretching out on the blanket and grabbing her second sandwich.
[17:42] <Usagi-chan> "Sometimes if I'm out early I'll just come up here for a while to relax and listen to the birds," Usagi says with a quiet smile, looking up at the trees. "I can almost believe I'm out in the middle of the country somewhere when I'm here."
[17:44] <Rei-chan> "I can see that," Rei agrees quietly, closing her eyes and slowly working her way through her sandwich with dainty little bites.
[17:46] * Usagi-chan stretches out in the dappled shade with a happy sigh as she finishes off the last of her sandwich, staring up at the leaves of the trees and the small patches of blue sky visible between them.
[17:48] * Rei-chan remains silent as she works her way through the rest of Usagi's picnic, this comfortable silence with her love expressing all that's right with the world better than any sappy words she could come up with.
[17:49] * Usagi-chan drifts off into a half-doze as Rei eats quietly, her peaceful emotions combining with the warm afternoon to make her rather drowsy.
[17:55] <Rei-chan> Noting Usagi's state after working through a rather enjoyable lunch, Rei smiles, shifting over to cuddle a bit on the blanket as they both enjoy each other's company in this secluded area of the park, before eventually finishing the picnic and continuing on to find other activities for their day together...
[17:55] <Rei-chan> ---------
[12:59] * Natsume returns to the same place in the park where she first began her training under Usagi. It's in the middle of the night, and she is waiting for Tsukino-san to arrive.
[13:00] * Usagi-chan shows up about ten minutes later, yawning sleepily as she steps off the path and into the grove. "What's up?" she says sleepily.
[13:01] <Natsume> "I'm sorry to call you so late," Natsume apologizes first. "I realize this is a rather obscene hour..."
[13:01] <Usagi-chan> "It's okay, I've been up later than this - just surprised me is all," the blonde replies. "Something on your mind?"
[13:02] <Natsume> "Well, there have been a lot of things on my mind," Natsume admits. "Too many to count... that's why I called you here..."
[13:03] <Usagi-chan> "I can understand that," Usagi agrees, settling herself down on the cool grass. "What can I help you with?"
[13:08] <Natsume> "When we were talking in the park the first time, and you were asking me about my motivations..." Natsume begins. "You began talking about the kinds of risks involved with being a senshi..."
[13:08] * Usagi-chan nods, waiting for Natsume to go on.
[13:13] <Natsume> "What is it really like out there... fighting those demons?" Natsume finally asks. "I realize that I probably make it sound a lot more glamorous than it actually is...."
[13:15] <Usagi-chan> "It's... a lot harder than it looks," Usagi admits. "It's not always 'fighting for your life' intense, but you know that what you're fighting really could kill you if you're not careful - even that monster yesterday could have killed one of us if I hadn't transformed to finish it off," Usagi replies. "It IS exciting sometimes, but honestly, I normally don't even stop to think about that kind of thing until the fighting is over."
[13:17] <Natsume> "It's been my dream to fight alongside the senshi... and I thought that when that day came I would be able to fearlessly face down whatever demon came my way," Natsume admits. "But when we fought that snake thing... well... I actually started to feel scared...."
[13:18] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "That's totally natural - the first time I fought a youma, I was absolutely petrified. I didn't have the first clue about what I was doing."
[13:23] <Natsume> "I just don't know what to think anymore. First finding about magic... then Ann... then you... then that monster, I just don't know what makes sense anymore," Natsume says. "Over the past three weeks, it's been made abundantly clear just how weak I am in the grand scheme of things, but I thought if I trained hard enough I'd be able to overcome any obstacles to my strength. But now, after fighting that monster... I'm not so sure anymore."
[13:25] <Natsume> "It just seems that no matter what I do, it won't be enough..."
[13:26] * Usagi-chan gives Natsume an apologetic smile. "You're really not all that weak, Natsume - but you've barely scratched the surface of what your real capabilities are. I can't even help you learn all of what you might be able to do. But you're right - with as strong as you are now, you aren't really cut out to help out in the kind of fighting we do. You might be someday, but not right now."
[13:30] * Natsume chuckles sardonically.
[13:33] <Natsume> "How do you deal with all of it?" Natsume finally asks. "You mentioned there were times when there were people you couldn't save..."
[13:36] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah," Usagi says quietly. "It's... not easy - you do everything you can, and sometimes it's just not enough. I can't help but go back and think that if I'd done something differently, that things might have gone better - but there's no way to know now."
[13:44] <Natsume> "I asked you how you first became Sailor Moon, but what about the other senshi?" she asks. "How or when were they chosen?"
[13:45] <Usagi-chan> "There's a pretty long history behind the senshi," Usagi says, a rather distant expression on her face. "Most of them were awakened the same way I was - I was there for Sailor Mercury, Sailor Mars, and Sailor Jupiter's awakenings myself. Venus, Dragon, and Uranus I didn't meet until after they'd become senshi, and Neptune is kind of a special case."
[13:47] <Natsume> "Neptune? I don't think I've ever seen her," Natsume tries to recall.
[13:48] <Usagi-chan> "You probably wouldn't have, there really hasn't been any trouble to speak of since she was chosen," Usagi says. "She's barely been around for a month now."
[13:52] <Natsume> "And whatever happened to Venus?" Natsume asks. "I realize it's been quite some time since I've ever seen her with the rest of you."
[13:52] <Natsume> "The past few times you've been seens as a group, she was never among you,"
[13:53] * Usagi-chan grows solemn at that, her expression unreadable. "...she's passed on," Usagi says after a moment, not really looking at Natsume. "She died in a car accident a few weeks ago."
[13:55] * Natsume is struck silent by that. The notion of a senshi dying in something as ordinary as a car accident...
[13:56] * Usagi-chan appears to be holding an oddly-shaped pen the next time Natsume looks back at her, orange in color and with an ornate golden symbol adorning its cap.
[13:59] <Natsume> "What... is that?"
[13:59] <Usagi-chan> "Venus' transformation pen," Usagi says, a small smile on her face as she looks at the object in her hand. "All the other senshi use pens like this one to transform - I'm the odd one out."
[14:02] <Natsume> "I see," she says in understanding. "To think a senshi would die from a car accident of all things... I guess the senshi are more mortal than I gave them credit for. Yet another truth I am forced to face."
[14:03] * Usagi-chan nods, still looking at the pen. "We can be hurt or killed just like any other person can be - we might be a little tougher, and we heal faster, but we're not invincible."
[14:08] * Natsume sighs. "It all seems so painful," she says next. "What keeps you fighting despite it all?"
[14:10] <Usagi-chan> "The fact that I have to do it," Usagi says simply. "If I - if we didn't, there wouldn't be anyone to stand in the way of the kind of things we fight. I do it because I want a peaceful world to live in, and sometimes it means I have to fight to keep it that way."
[14:16] <Natsume> "Where do those monsters come from anyway? They just seem to pop up out of nowhere," Natsume says, remembering the Naga appearing suddenly from an explosion of smoke.
[14:18] <Usagi-chan> "All kinds of places, really - some of them are spirits that are native to Earth, some aren't," Usagi explains. "The ones we fight most of the time tend to be from outside Earth, trying to invade and either take over or destroy the world."
[22:42] <Natsume> "I wonder what's so special about Earth that they'd go to such lengths," Natsume wonders out loud. "Perhaps they enjoy the taste of our seafood?"
[22:43] * Usagi-chan snorts at that. "Usually that they like the 'taste' of humans' energy - or that there are things here that they want."
[22:48] <Natsume> "Things? What kind of things?"
[22:50] <Usagi-chan> "Well..." Usagi considers for a moment, then shrugs, withdrawing the Holy Grail from storage. "Things like this, for example. This is the Holy Grail - it's one of the most powerful magical items that exist - at least as far as I know."
[22:53] <Natsume> "What... is that?" Natsume asks, staring at the golden chalice. "Holy Grail... wasn't that the thing the Christians were after?"
[22:55] * Usagi-chan giggles. "I doubt it's the same thing - this is something that belongs to a COMPLETELY different religion." She traces a finger over the ornate patterns, sighing a bit. "One of the groups we've fought would have brought about the end of this world and everything living on it if they'd gotten their hands on this," she says quietly.
[22:56] <Natsume> "It's that powerful, huh...?"
[22:57] * Usagi-chan nods. "It really is... I'm the one that USES the thing and it still blows my mind how much power it has sometimes." Shaking her head a bit, she slips the cup back into subspace.
[22:59] <Natsume> "To think you could just keep something like that around without a worry," Natsume laughs a bit. "I envy you even more now."
[23:01] <Usagi-chan> "You think I don't worry about it?" Usagi says, giving Natsume a serious look. "It's a huge responsibility - letting something that powerful fall into the wrong hands would be a complete disaster, no matter what they wanted to use it for."
[23:03] <Natsume> "Hm, I see. I guess I still have a long way to go before I understand how you think," Natsume says.
[23:05] <Usagi-chan> "That's where a lot of people miss it, I think," Usagi says quietly. "They think it's something we can do without even having to try, that we're so powerful that nothing ever worries us - it's not really true. It means we have to worry about more - I have a responsibility to every one of those people out there," Usagi says, pointing out towards the night skyline. "I have to keep them all safe as best I can."
[23:07] <Natsume> "Why do you bother? You never get any thanks or praise, there even some people who consider you a menace," she says. "I've always thought it was due to some noble, enlightened, sense of justice, but... I'd like to hear it directly from you."
[23:09] <Usagi-chan> "If I didn't do it, who would?" Usagi says simply. "I do it because it's right, but I do it mostly because I want all those people out there to be able to lead peaceful, happy lives, without having to worry about monsters or energy draining or any of the kind of stuff we deal with. It's just the least I can do."
[23:15] * Natsume smiles widely.
[23:15] <Natsume> "At least I was right about one thing," Natsume says. "You are noble."
[23:16] * Usagi-chan smiles at that. "I try to be," she says, a rather distant look on her face. "Don't know how well I do at it most of the time, though - you haven't seen me attack an ice cream sundae, either," she giggles.
[23:17] * Natsume laughs. "I used to think it would be impossible for me to talk to a senshi like this," Natsume admits. "It still seemed impossible when I first discovered your secret. Now... it just seems so normal."
[23:20] * Usagi-chan smiles. "We're normal people at heart, really - there's nothing that makes us any more special or noble than anyone else out there. We just have power that most people don't."
[23:22] * Natsume lays down on the grass and stares up at the night sky. She came here feeling sorry for herself, but now.....
[23:24] <Natsume> "If normal people can somehow find the strength to fight, then at the very least I should do the same," Natsume says, more to herself than anything. "I may not be strong enough now, perhaps I never will be, but as long as I keep holding on to my dream, it just might happen someday."
[23:25] <Natsume> "As long as I'm able to swing my sword, everything will work itself out in the end," she continues. "I'd nearly forgotten that."
[23:34] * Usagi-chan smiles. "Keep after it, Natsume. You never know what'll make you stronger in the end," the blonde says, giving the other girl a wink.
[23:39] * Natsume takes a moment, and a bit of concentration, to form her katana.
[23:40] <Natsume> "The only path to strength that I know, is the one I've trained for all my life," Natsume says, aiming the tip of her energy sword at some random point in the sky. "This blade will guide down the proper path. I'm sure of it."
[23:45] * Usagi-chan giggles at the dramatic speech (although she has to admit to herself she's made some corny speeches in her own time, privately). "Just keep your mind and your eyes open. I'm not really some expert teacher or anything, so take what I've got to say and judge it for yourself. But I'd say the best way to really succeed at your training is to train to be the best you can."
[23:45] <Usagi-chan> "Maybe you won't ever be strong enough to fight alongside us, but you can always put what you do have to some kind of use. Keep your goals small to start out with."
[23:49] <Natsume> "Thanks for... coming out here to talk with me," Natsume says. "I guess I just needed to vent a bit."
[23:50] * Usagi-chan smiles. "It's okay, it's always good to have someone around to talk things out with. Glad I could help you out."
[23:51] <Natsume> "By the way, how is Chibi Usa? She seemed pretty shaken up when the monster attacked."
[23:52] <Usagi-chan> "She's doing all right, she just worries about me a lot when she sees me fight," Usagi says somewhat apologetically. "She lost her real mother, and I promised her she could stay with me."
[23:55] <Natsume> "What happened to her real mother?"
[23:56] * Usagi-chan sighs. "That's kind of a complicated story," she says, settling back a bit. "To put it simply as I can, she's from another world's future - but things in that world changed, and the future she came from just stopped existing. Her parents and everyone she ever knew were just... gone."
[23:57] * Natsume blinks. "I...see, well, that does sound complicated..."
[23:59] <Usagi-chan> "It's worse than that, but that's the short version," Usagi says wryly.
[00:01] * Natsume sighs. "Well, I'd better be getting home. I need to get rested so I can train more!" Natsume proclaims.
[00:03] <Usagi-chan> "All right," Usagi says, climbing to her feet. "I'll talk to you later, Natsume." With a wave, the blonde starts on her way back home.
[00:41] <Usagi-chan> -----
[00:45] <Halbarad> It's just after midnight when Natsume finally arrives home, the house dark as she slips inside quietly. Just as she's about to head into her room, her grandfather's voice comes from the darkened living room. "You're rather late, Natsume."
[00:48] <Natsume> "G...grandfather!" Natsume blurts out in surprise at her grandfather's presence. "I apologize. I went out to get some fresh air, it seems I stayed out later than I anticipated."
[00:49] <Halbarad> "I see," comes the voice from the darkness. "I will overlook it this time since this is rather unusual, but if you go out late again at night, at least let me know where you're going."
[00:50] <Natsume> "Of course," Natsume says. "It won't happen again."
[00:51] <Halbarad> You hear him grunt. "See that it doesn't. Now, head to bed - you do have school in the morning."
[00:53] <Natsume> "Yes, grandfather," Natsume says before bowing and heading to her room.
[00:56] <Halbarad> As you enter, a rustle from Kurumi's bed reveals that Grandfather wasn't the only one waiting up for Natsume. "So where WERE you?" Kurumi whispers. "It's not like you to stay out this late."
[00:57] <Natsume> "What is it with you and grandfather waiting up in the dark..." Natsume mumbles to herself. "Sorry about that, I just had a lot of things on my mind to sort out. I lost track of time."
[00:59] <Halbarad> "Well, it's just weird - you almost never go out at night. Grandfather was worried, and so was I a little bit. Where'd you go?" she asks.
[01:03] <Natsume> "I went to the park for a little while," she explains as she flops down on her bed. "A nice little secluded area near the lake."
[01:05] <Halbarad> Kurumi props herself up on one elbow, just visible in the light from the streetlamp outside. "Seems like a long way to go, especially in the middle of the night - you didn't leave until after ten."
[01:07] <Natsume> "I had a lot of things on my mind," Natsume says wistfully. "It made it difficult to sleep."
[01:08] <Halbarad> "Well, like what?" is the response.
[01:09] <Natsume> "Hm, my worth as a swordsman I guess," Natsume says. "Call it a crisis of confidence."
[01:10] <Halbarad> You hear a soft snort from your sister's bed. "So what did you figure out on your walk?"
[01:13] <Natsume> "I guess I just need more faith in myself and my blade," she answers. "As long as I have that I have nothing to fear."
[01:15] <Halbarad> "And you had to go out for a walk at ten o'clock at night to figure that out?" Kurumi says somewhat doubtfully.
[01:15] <Natsume> "Hey, its not as simple as you think," she says. "Sometimes even the simplest answers take time."
[01:17] <Halbarad> "It's not that, it's just... I don't know," she says with a sigh. "Usually when you're worried we talk about it."
[01:20] <Natsume> "I know... it's just... lately I've been facing a lot of new challenges..." Natsume starts. "Challenges that... well... I'm only just beginning to comprehend. It'd probably just sound like mindless rambling to you."
[21:13] <Halbarad> "I still wish you'd talk to me about it," Kurumi says unhappily. "But if you don't want to I guess that's all right." She flops back down on her pillow.
[21:17] <Natsume> "Kurumi...." Natsume goes over to her sister's bed and sits down next to her.
[21:19] <Natsume> "Its not that I don't want to talk to you about," she tries to explain. "Its just... I guess... I don't know how."
[21:20] <Halbarad> She sighs. "I don't know, it just feels like you're not telling me something, and we've never really kept secrets from each other," Kurumi replies.
[21:24] <Natsume> "I know... and usually I would tell you, but..." she says. "But... until I can figure this all out, it just wouldn't be right to tell you right now."
[21:24] <Natsume> "Sometimes a half-truth can be worse than a lie," Natsume quotes. "At least I think that's how it goes..."
[21:25] <Halbarad> "All right," your sister concedes. "If you can't tell me now, I guess I'll have to live with that. But you will tell me later?"
[21:28] <Natsume> "If I can, I will, I promise," Natsume smiles gently.
[21:29] <Halbarad> "All right," she replies, sounding mollified. "Anyway, I'm about ready to get to sleep - we're already up WAY too late as it is."
[21:33] <Natsume> "Yes, I can most definitely use some sleep right now," Natsume says with a sigh.
[21:33] <Halbarad> "Good night, Natsume," Kurumi responds.
[21:35] <Natsume> "Good night, Kurumi."
[21:35] <Halbarad> -----
[11:40] <Anastasia> Since the celebration at Motoki's engagment party, most of the Witches and Sailors have been working on the new dilemma. So it's a bit of a surprise when Tuesday afternoon comes and you find Professor Tomoe sitting in the Witches office. He nods as you enter, "Haruka, have you seen Eudial about lately? I've been looking for her for the last few hours."
[11:42] <Haruka> "No, I haven't seen or spoken to her much at all lately," Haruka responds before quirking her head. "Why, is something up? I can go look for her if you need her."
[11:42] <Anastasia> "Thanks," he nods, taking you up on the offer. "She went to lunch and I haven't seen her since. Her car is still here, so I know she didn't go out."
[11:44] <Haruka> "Sure, no problem," Haruka replies. "Did you want me to pass on any message or will she already know what this is about?" she asks before making her way out of the office.
[11:45] <Anastasia> "Just tell her to meet me in the laboratory," he replies, standing himself. "Tell Viluy to hurry along if you see her, as well."
[11:45] * Haruka nods and sets off on the journey to find the pair.
[11:49] <Anastasia> Searching the cafeteria and surroundings nets you nothing of note. All the cafeteria workers have wrapped up now, so you can't ask them for anything. Going onto the pool area down a busy intersection that still has a few students around even after classes, you pass by a tiny maintenance closet. From the corner of your eye, you see it crack open as you pass...
[11:51] * Haruka gives it a curious glance. First listening for any distinct sounds before trying to open the door.
[11:52] <Anastasia> Glancing at it, the door starts to close before stopping, a whisper. "Is that you, Haruka," Eudial whispers out, loud enough for you to hear but not so much as to really carry.
[11:55] <Haruka> "Um... yeah," Haruka matches Eudial's whisper, though her reply carries with it a strong hint of confusion.
[11:56] <Anastasia> "Thank goodness," she sighs in obvious relief. "I need you to do me a favor," she says, not opening the door beyond a shadowy crack. "Could you...get me some clothes from the PE department? They don't have to be special or even clean, just decent."
[11:58] * Haruka blinks at the strangeness of that request, but goes to do just that. Haruka returns with some of her own spare PE garb for Eudial. "Is there an amusing story behind this?" Haruka asks as she hands the clothes over to Eudial.
[11:59] <Anastasia> Snatching them by opening the door a bit, Haruka gets a rather nice glance at an extremely unclothed Eudial before the door zooms shut again. "Yes, and it's going to end with me RUNNING OVER Viluy!" she half shouts, getting pissed.
[12:02] <Haruka> Haruka's smirk sits somewhere between being appreciative of the generous view and amused at the situation in general. "So," she drawls, "what exactly did she do anyway?"
[12:04] <Anastasia> There is the sound of a shirt being thrown on, of a bloomer shorts pair being up on quickly. "She used her damn Mosaic Buster to eat all my clothes and leave me in this closet," she grinds out. You get the distinct impression she's hoping to also grind Viluy's face and bones while she's at it.
[12:06] * Haruka chuckles slightly at that. "A pity I missed most of that showing," Haruka comments, leaning against the wall adjacent to the door, while waiting for Eudial to get done. "Will there be an encore?" she quips.
[12:07] <Anastasia> Eudial's response is both colorful and loud to the extreme, peppered a moment later by, "If you want to see someone's body, I'll give you Viluy's in a little while. She won't be using it by that point."
[12:09] * Haruka grins at the... 'amusing' image, before the reason for coming finally jumps forth in her mind. "Oh, before I forget. The Professor sent me to come grab you."
[12:10] <Anastasia> Coming out garbed in a tight white T-shirt and short, short gym shorts, "He can wait until I find Viluy," she says, twitching with barely suppressed kill instinct.
[12:13] <Haruka> "Come on now," Haruka replies, grabbing the older girl by the arms and trying to soothe some of her ruffled feathers. "As much fun as it'd be to get back at her now, let's keep our priorities in order. Besides, I'd end up looking bad if we kept the Professor waiting too long."
[12:14] <Anastasia> "My priorities ARE in order," she says, pulling out and taking off at a jog. "I'll send you Viluy or what's left when I'm done," she adds, going off in search of the silvery-haired Sailor/perhaps soon-to-be-petfood girl.
[12:17] <Haruka> "Viluy is also getting a summons to the Professor's lab as well, so you can catch her there," Haruka adds, hoping that that nugget of information would be enough to get her going in the desired direction.
[12:20] <Anastasia> Eudial just brushes it off, mind too clouded with visions of fiery death to really pay attention as she rounds a corner in pursuit of the elusive Viluy.
[12:25] * Haruka growls low in her throat at Eudial's stubborn determination before running her down. Haruka takes hold of her hand and pulls her in the direction of the lab. "Viluy is this way," she tries again, a little more firmly this time.
[12:27] <Anastasia> Grabbing her hand as you and her just see Viluy coming out of a classroom, "There you are," Eudial cries, honestly ignoring Haruka in favor of the other girl. Viluy sees Eudial, blinking before she breaks into a fit of giggles, light and airy.
[12:29] <Anastasia> "Hi, Eudial! Getting in touch with your inner streaker?" she asks, while covering her mouth with one well-manicured hand.
[12:31] <Anastasia> OOC - Make a Body check +2, Haruka.
[12:33] <Haruka> roll 2d6+2
[12:33] * Musk-bot --> "Haruka rolls 2d6+2 and gets 13."
[12:34] <Anastasia> Breaking the handhold you have and causing Haruka to stumble back, off-balance, from it, Eudial goes right at Viluy! "You..." she growls low and dangerously, lunging at Viluy in a full body tackle! As she does so, Viluy seems more than ready, sidestepping cleanly.
[12:35] <Anastasia> "Really, Eudial," she goes on, still amused. "Did you think you could get away with humiliating Viluy of the Witches, dear?"
[12:39] * Haruka is able to catch herself from falling flat on the ground at the loss of balance. "Viluy..." she sighs as the girl eggs Eudial on. Haruka briefly entertains the thought of just leaving for the Professor's lab, seeing as this might be a lost cause.
[12:40] <Anastasia> Eudial moans and rubs her head a moment, as Viluy takes the chance to go over and flip her right side up, kneeling down. "Now, Eudial. Why don't you apologise for what you did at the beach, hm?"
[12:43] <Anastasia> If she apologises, Haruka couldn't hear it in the mumbling that came from Eudial's mouth.
[12:44] <Anastasia> "You really should," Viluy goes along, sounding strangely playful now. Innocently, "Don't you want to kiss and make up, Eu-chan," she says suddenly, with a meaningful glance that vaguely says 'play along' to Haruka, hopefully.
[12:47] <Anastasia> "Gah," Eudial blinks at that, quickly scooting along the floor and being taken from rage to mind-scattered embarrassment and shock in about a minute. "Not interested!" she fires off, scooting away.
[12:49] <Anastasia> Walking forward slowly and visibly trying to hold in a laugh, "But that's not what you were saying in that hallway closet at lunch, Eu-chan," she says with cute eyes. At that, you can almost hear Eudial's mind calling for a retreat, the girl deciding that perhaps she should get to Professor Tomoe's office posthaste.
[12:50] <Anastasia> As the redhead bolts, Viluy begins to laugh quite loudly, holding her side in short order as she rocks in laughter. "Oh... oh... gotcha, Eudial," she gets out between laughs, holding onto a nearby wall for support.
[12:50] * Haruka stands watch over the scene amusedly, giving Viluy bonus points for 'mischievous torment'.
[12:52] <Haruka> "Having fun?" Haruka asks with a grin, while walking next to Viluy.
[12:53] <Anastasia> The girl needs a few minutes before she can really answer, wiping tears from her eyes. "Oh yes. I think Eudial learned that she shouldn't try those sort of pranks on me, don't you think?"
[12:59] * Haruka smirks at that before drawing herself close to Viluy. "So, only Eudial gets an offer to kiss and make up?"
[13:00] <Anastasia> Smiling firmly but pushing away with equal firmness, "I'm afraid so, Haruka," she says with another smile. "Ah, I'm not actually interested in other women that much, if that's what you mean. Eudial thinking otherwise is amusing, that's all."
[13:03] * Haruka chuckles, though she makes note of Viluy's answer there. "And here I was hoping you'd give me as interesting a reaction as Eudial gave you. Killjoy," she teases, making a face at Viluy.
[13:05] <Anastasia> Smiling still, "I'm sure you could get the same reaction out of Eudial, though, if that's any consolation." At that, Viluy giggles again. "Between Rei, my jokes and maybe even you, I wonder if Eudial would be better off that way?" Viluy asks Haruka, clearly amused further by the thought.
[13:11] <Haruka> "I think Eudial is just naturally squirmy around certain subjects," Haruka says with an amused grin, then pauses a bit in thought. "Though if she did, I guess it wouldn't be that bad...." she trails off before shaking the thought off for the moment. "Anyway, ready to head for the Professor's lab? I know he's been waiting for you two."
[13:12] <Anastasia> "Yes," she nods, still in an obvious good humor. "I suppose we should get down there before he thinks I've become the new Pharaoh intent on possessing Eudial."
[13:14] <Haruka> "I thought that was an established fact?" Haruka returns, leading the way to the office.
[13:15] <Anastasia> Chuckling as you walk, the two of you fall into a comfortable silence. It feels vaguely familiar to Haruka, as you watch Viluy take firm, yet graceful steps, occasionally with the slightest sway of her hips...
[13:22] <Haruka> The mirth in her eyes fade slightly to one of sad longing, though she tries to mask it when she catches herself. The feeling of comfortable familiarity she feels around Viluy lately since her taking the title of Neptune was both pleasure and pain.
[13:23] <Anastasia> As you head below past the actual school section of Mugen, "Something wrong, Haruka?" Viluy asks, her amusement gone now. "You look like you just had a bad memory."
[13:29] <Haruka> "It's nothing," Haruka tells Viluy, giving her a mustered, reassuring smile before turning away for a moment to compose herself. She tries to shift the focus away from herself with idle chatter as she turns back towards Viluy. "So what are you working on with the Professor?"
[13:30] <Anastasia> "We're working on the data readings he got from Chibi Usa the other day," she explains, going onto the subject of her work. "From what I heard, that incident at the wedding party got Usagi and everyone rather worked up and worried."
[13:36] * Haruka nods idly at that, hoping the trip to the Professor's lab would be a short one so she could excuse herself and find a quiet place to regather her senses. 'The music room or even the garden would be good choices...', she thought.
[13:37] <Anastasia> Soon enough, Viluy comes to the hallway to the lab. "Are you coming inside?" Viluy asks, mentally preparing for any questions the Professor may have from Eudial's likely testimony.
[13:40] <Haruka> "No, I... have somewhere else to be," Haruka replies apologetically.
[13:46] <Anastasia> A single nod. "See you...say, see you tomorrow? I still want to take you up on that offer, Haruka."
[13:52] <Haruka> "Oh? Oh! Right," Haruka manages after a bit of mental floundering. "Sure, I should be around." 'Maybe...' she said to herself mentally.
[13:52] <Anastasia> With a smile, Viluy nods and heads in, leaving Haruka just outside...
[13:56] * Haruka slumps against the wall behind her for support. She runs a hand over her face, while waiting for her body to calm itself. After a moment, she decides to follow through on her earlier plans of finding a quiet place to gather herself.

[08:19] <Anastasia> ---
[08:23] <Anastasia> After another early afternoon of teaching various teens how to swim and float, Herb heads back to the little gym office. No one is about as she sits down a few moments, stll drying out from a chlorine-relieving shower. This reverie is interrupted, however, by a hesitant triple knock on the office door.
[08:24] <Princess_Herb> "Come in," Herb says, wondering who it could be.
[08:28] <Anastasia> Entering, you see a rather slight teen, dressed in the light Mugen summer uniform as most students are now. She's small, with backbraided brown hair, freckles, and a glance that seems constantly fixated on the floor. She's from your last swimming class, you recognize her. "Um...Teacher?" she asks, not meeting your eyes.
[08:30] <Princess_Herb> "Oh, hi," says Herb, whilst she tries to remember the girl's name, "what's up?"
[08:32] <Anastasia> It's... Megumi. Megumi something, you'd have to take the time to check the rolls for a last time, as it's not coming for you. "Um..." she blushes deeply, staring a hole in the floor while she stumbles. "Well... you see..."
[08:34] <Princess_Herb> "Eh, don't just stand there, Megumi-chan." Herb says, feeling uncomfortable. "Come on in."
[08:35] * Princess_Herb leads the girl into the room and offers her a chair.
[08:36] <Anastasia> She does so, sitting meekly. She holds her hands, wringing them as she sits, the floor still her eye's viewpoint. "Um... Teacher. Can I... talk to you about something?"
[08:38] <Princess_Herb> "Sure, I guess. Is it about the class?" Herb asks.
[08:39] <Anastasia> "Kind of," she says quietly, almost muttering. "Um... do you know Hiroko and Motoko?" she asks. The names ring a bell, two of your better swimmers in the last class you have. Both are rather outgoing from what you've seen, high up on the social food chain, pretty and popular.
[08:41] * Princess_Herb nods. "I know them from the class, yes."
[08:43] <Anastasia> "Oh... well..." Megumi stammers a bit, trying to speak clearly as possible - which isn't much, given her low tone. "Can... can I have a different period for gym, teacher?"
[08:48] <Princess_Herb> "I'm not sure if that's possible, with the way the timetables are worked out, though I could probably try and have you excused gym entirely, if there's something seriously wrong." Herb kneels in front of the girl so that she can look into her eyes. "So what's the problem?"
[08:50] <Anastasia> Reflexively turning away from your eyes like a wild rabbit running from a human, "I... we... we don't really get along, teacher."
[08:54] <Princess_Herb> "Why don't you tell me about it, and I'll see if I can think of something. I was just about to have a cup of tea, and you look like you could do with one too." Herb puts the office kettle on and looks for another clean mug.
[08:55] <Anastasia> "...okay..." she mutters, still looking at almost anything but you.
[08:57] * Princess_Herb makes a face at the array of unwashed mugs in front of her, but selects one that doesn't look too grimy and rinses it out.
[08:58] <Anastasia> Megumi stays quiet during this, not offering any independant ventures into the realm of discussion.
[08:59] * Princess_Herb makes the tea and presses a Japanese Swimming Association mug full of it into the schoolgirl's hands.
[09:01] <Princess_Herb> "Drink up, and tell me about Motoko and Hiroko." Herb says, smiling at the girl to try and put her more at ease.
[09:02] <Anastasia> She holds the mug, taking a few small sips. "Well... w-we... we don't really get along, teacher."
[09:06] <Princess_Herb> "Can you think of an example, Megumi?" Herb asks, wondering if the girl's being bullied.
[09:08] <Anastasia> "...w-we just don't get along, teacher. I think they hate me, and I don't like them either." is all she says, nervously playing with her mug while starting at the liqiud inside.
[09:15] <Princess_Herb> "What is it about them that you don't like?" Herb says, kneeling down in front of the girl again. "I can see you're quite upset, so it must be something serious."
[09:17] <Anastasia> The girl actually whimpers at that, a surprisingly weak and lonely sound. "We... we've had some arguments," she finally confesses, blushing and staring away from you as much as she can.
[09:22] <Princess_Herb> "What kind of arguments?" Herb sips her tea, then continues "Or are they too awful to talk about?"
[09:25] <Anastasia> "Um..." Megumi blushes. "They..." the girl glances down at her shirt chest, which shows very little there, to the point of being boardish. "They've made comments about my..."
[09:31] <Princess_Herb> "They've been teasing you? That's not good; they're your classmates - they should stand up for you." Herb says.
[09:32] <Anastasia> Megumi winces at that. "Well... they're telling the truth," she admits, her own chest evidence of that. "I'm ugly... and flat... and can't get a boyfriend...."
[09:38] <Princess_Herb> "How unkind," Herb says, "and I don't know what I'd do if it was me they'd been teasing."
[09:41] <Anastasia> "mmm..." she whispers, sipping her tea again. "And... I think it would be better for all of us if we didn't go into the same class..."
[09:44] <Princess_Herb> Herb shakes her head sadly. "That's not the way it works, Megumi. If they didn't have you in the class to tease, they'd pick on someone else. You're as pretty as most of your classmates, and a lot of them aren't as well-developed as Matoko and Hiroko. Plenty of them won't have boyfriends either."
[09:45] <Princess_Herb> "So, they'd just latch onto someone else who doesn't seem as blessed by the gods as themselves..."
[09:45] * Princess_Herb wonders what to do.
[09:46] <Anastasia> "But... I am ugly and all of that. They aren't lying," she says quietly, voice almost breaking. "They're just telling me the truth... I should go so that they don't have to see me anymore."
[09:52] <Princess_Herb> "Hmmph. You wouldn't deserve such treatment, no matter how ugly you were." Herb hugs the girl and then smiles. "And you're not ugly at all."
[09:53] <Anastasia> The girl seems to shrink when you touch her, radiating a lack of confidence. But she doesn't deny it, either.
[09:55] <Princess_Herb> "I'm not a very experienced teacher, you know," Herb admits, "and I'm going to have to think carefully about what I'm going to do. But you will be able to stay in your class and take PE without suffering at the hands of those two. This I swear!" Herb raises a fist to the sky in a comical attempt to mimic the typical coach figure in a sports anime. "Is that OK with you?"
[09:57] <Anastasia> Megumi blushes darkly, but just nods meekly. "Okay... teacher."
[10:01] <Princess_Herb> "Well, I have to get going across town in a few minutes for a class, but there's time for you to finish your tea before then."
[10:02] <Anastasia> "No... don't let me keep you, teacher," she murmurs, standing. "...you promise?"
[10:03] <Princess_Herb> "I promise." Herb says, knowing that she has no clue how it's going to work.
[10:03] <Anastasia> At that, Megumi leaves, yet her issues remain for Herb...
[10:08] <Princess_Herb> After a class at Toudai, Herb returns to Mugen to work on this problem. She checks which classes they are taking, and in particular whether Miss H takes them for English.
[10:14] <Anastasia> They're in for just gym together, and none of them have Miss Haruna for English.
[10:19] <Princess_Herb> "Good," Herb thinks, "it would be a lot trickier if she knew them." She looks for the English teacher's pigeonhole and leaves a note there asking if she can come for a chat sometime the next day.
[10:23] <Anastasia> Finding it in the main office is a relatively simple task, the note left.
[10:24] * Princess_Herb heads down to the Witches office to think and to see if there's anyone still around.
[10:32] <Usagi-chan> The office is actually fairly full this afternoon. None of the Witches are present, but Usagi and Rei are chatting over the blonde's desk, Chibi Usa close to her mother's side. Ami is at her own desk, hard at work on some sort of diagram. Usagi glances around as Herb enters, giving the Musk prince a small smile.
[10:33] * Rei-chan also looks over. "Hey, Herb," she greets the swimming coach with a small wave.
[10:34] * Ami-chan doesn't look up, too engrossed in her work to notice Herb's entry.
[10:34] <Princess_Herb> "Hi gang!" Herb says, returning the wave. "Can I ask you all about something? It's a problem I've come across at Mugen."
[10:35] * Usagi-chan half-turns in her seat to face Herb. "What's up?"
[10:35] <Rei-chan> "Problem?" Rei looks a bit more interested, focusing on Herb, now.
[10:36] <Princess_Herb> "One of the girls I teach came to see me earlier today. She's being victimised by a couple of the other girls in the same class, and I don't know how to deal with it."
[10:37] * Princess_Herb explains about Megumi and the others, being careful not to use any names.
[10:37] <Rei-chan> "They're bullying her?" Rei frowns. "Who is it? Anyone we know?"
[10:38] * Usagi-chan frowns at that, but lets Rei take the initiative for the moment.
[10:44] <Princess_Herb> "I don't know if you know them, and I'm trying to keep it confidential for the moment. I know you won't tell anyone, but I'd rather keep it to myself." Herb says.
[10:44] * Rei-chan nods. "Fair enough," she doesn't dispute that, mulling over the actual problem itself.
[10:45] <Usagi-chan> "Have you seen any of the teasing yourself?" Usagi asks.
[10:46] <Princess_Herb> "I haven't; it takes place in the changing rooms, and I don't like to go in there. I'd feel very uncomfortable."
[10:53] <Rei-chan> "Have you talked to the other girls in the class? Are others being bullied?" Rei asks, wanting more information before she offers any advice.
[10:56] <Princess_Herb> Herb looks a little surprised. "I hadn't thought of that, really, but it might be a good idea to try and find out."
[10:57] * Usagi-chan nods. "If it's happening in the changing rooms and you can't go in there yourself, it might not be a bad idea to look for one of the more responsible girls in the class to help you out with it, too."
[10:58] <Ami-chan> "Usually they pick a single target." Ami offers, having looked up sometime during the conversation. "I didn't see you come in, Herb." she smiles.
[11:00] <Princess_Herb> "Hi Ami," Herb says. "You were studying hard, so you must have missed me."
[11:00] <Princess_Herb> "They might be picking on other students in their other classes, I suppose, though."
[11:01] * Ami-chan inlines her head slightly. "Did you ask their victim about a history with her tormentors?"
[11:01] <Usagi-chan> "It's possible, but gym and lunch are usually the worst times for that," Usagi replies, having been the victim of teasing herself a few times. "Mostly when there's no teachers around."
[11:02] <Rei-chan> "Or just a few snippy comments inbetween classes," Rei adds in from her own experience, "It can mount up quite a bit."
[11:03] <Princess_Herb> "Eh, I did, but she was very reluctant to say anything. She's a very shy thing; it must have taken a lot to come and speak to me." Herb says, and then, realising something, "She probably came to see me because I'm the most minor authority figure there is in this school."
[11:05] <Rei-chan> "That could be it," Rei nods. "So I take it she doesn't have any other friends in the class to stick up for her, or even to turn to after being bullied?"
[11:08] <Princess_Herb> "She didn't say so, and I think not, because she wanted to be moved out of the class." Herb says.
[11:09] <Usagi-chan> "That would fit with what Ami said," Usagi muses. "Usually if there's more than one person being bullied, they'll tend to stick together - it's not exactly the BEST way of making friends, but it works."
[11:10] * Rei-chan sighs. "It probably would be easiest just to move her into another class. But what if someone there bullies her? She sounds like the kind of easy target they go for... it wouldn't really solve anything."
[11:11] * Ami-chan nods. "And it might encourage the bullies. If they think they can get whoever they want moved, they won't stop."
[11:14] <Princess_Herb> "If it were me being bullied, I'd just beat the living daylights out of them," Herb says, "But I can't do that as a teacher."
[11:15] <Rei-chan> "Confronting the bullies yourself... probably won't accomplish anything," Rei says, giving Herb an understanding smile. "They're already bullying her where you can't interfere - they'll just continue doing that while being on their best behaviour where you can see them."
[11:15] <Usagi-chan> "The best solution is really just for her to ignore them," Usagi says. "But I don't think she has enough self-confidence to do that. If you come in, it'll only make them mad and they'll start taking it out on her where you won't notice," Usagi says, nodding to Rei.
[11:16] <Rei-chan> "Even if she does ignore them, they might not stop," Rei sighs, knowing that all too well, "But at least if she doesn't let it get to her, that's a big improvement."
[11:17] <Ami-chan> "The only way you'd be in a position to do anything would be to catch them red-handed, anyway." Ami adds.
[11:21] <Princess_Herb> "I can't suddenly give her self-confidence either," Herb says, "unless I use the disguise pen to impersonate her, and that would raise more questions that are really best left alone."
[11:22] <Usagi-chan> "Well, you can't just wave a wand and make her more confident, no," Usagi says. "But that doesn't mean you can't do it the old-fashioned way. You know, help her find something she's good at and that she can be proud of herself for."
[11:23] * Rei-chan nods. "You can at least try to help her feel good about herself so she won't feel down every time some idiot makes a snide comment."
[11:26] <Ami-chan> "And if you do catch them bullying her, you can protect her, or make an example of them, whichever you think is best."
[11:27] <Princess_Herb> "I'd rebuke them for their lack of class spirit," Herb says, "and anything else that came to mind."
[11:28] <Rei-chan> "That's your responsibility as a teacher," Rei nods.
[11:29] <Ami-chan> "The key is that they pump up their own ego by making others look bad." Ami offers. "If you can take away the opportunity, they've lost."
[11:30] * Usagi-chan nods. "That's why ignoring them usually takes the wind out of their sails - if you don't react to them, it takes away all the fun for them."
[11:35] <Princess_Herb> "They need some other way of getting fun, then." Herb says. "I'll try and work on the girl's self-confidence, and get her to stand up to the bullies, but that's going to take a little time."
[11:35] <Rei-chan> "It's never quick, but just having your support should help her a little until she can stand on her own," Rei says encouragingly.
[11:37] * Ami-chan nods. "Providing a refuge should help immeasurably." She agrees.
[11:42] <Princess_Herb> "I'll have to think about this," Herb says, "I guess I need to speak to the girl more. I'll try to catch her again tomorrow, after I speak to Miss H, and look for something I can build on."
[11:42] <Rei-chan> "Good luck," Rei offers at that.
[11:43] <Usagi-chan> "I'm sure you'll do fine, Herb," Usagi says with a smile.
[11:43] * Ami-chan nods, smiling.
[11:44] <Princess_Herb> "Thanks, guys," Herb says, "I hope so."
[11:45] <Princess_Herb> The dragon princess bows and leaves Mugen for the night.
[08:42] <Anastasia> ---
[08:42] <Anastasia> At school on the next day, Herb has an appointment with a certain English teacher...
[08:49] * Princess_Herb heads up to Miss H's classroom; it's empty right now, except for the teacher herself who has a free period right now.
[08:49] * Princess_Herb knocks on the door and enters.
[08:50] <Anastasia> Glancing up from a stack of papers, she nods. "Oh... you're the PE teacher who left a note in my mailbox?" she asks, guessing.
[08:52] <Princess_Herb> "Yes, that's right. We met in the staffroom a little while ago, if you remember?" Herb says
[08:54] <Anastasia> She nods. "Oh, that's right." Gesturing at one of the front row desks, "Take a seat... you passed on that note, correct? Is there something you need to discuss with me?"
[08:56] * Princess_Herb sits down. "I wanted to ask your advice, since you have a reputation as a good teacher. One of the girls in my swimming class is being bullied by two other girls, and I wanted your advice on how to deal with the problem."
[08:59] <Anastasia> She smiles a bit at the compliment, then settles in. "Oh, something like that? How bad is it?"
[09:02] <Princess_Herb> "Well, it doesn't involve physical violence yet as far as I can tell," Herb says, and then briefs Miss H on the problem, being careful to name no names.
[09:09] <Anastasia> She nods a few times. "Go ahead and move her out for now and see if you can get her some couseling if it's that bad," she advises simply.
[09:14] <Princess_Herb> "I don't want to let the bullies think that they can kick people out of my class, though." Herb says. "I know she'd be happy to be out of it, but I'd rather she could be taught how to deal with the bullying and then come back. Do you think that that's an option?"
[09:15] <Anastasia> She shrugs a bit. "Depends on the girl, I guess. I just don't think it'll do her any good to force the issue."
[09:17] <Princess_Herb> "What about the bullies? Is there much I can do about them?" Herb says, unhappy at the news that there's not much she can do.
[09:21] <Anastasia> "I'd have a talk with them at least - let them know this isn't acceptable and call home. It's a start," she smiles a bit. "Honestly, I don't think you should do much more than that. It's natural for teenagers to do this. Not nice, but natural. It'll run it's course in a few years."
[09:25] <Princess_Herb> "Well, if you think so. I may try building up the bullied girl's self-confidence if I switch her to another class, though. What's education for if it doesn't teach how to deal with life's vicissitudes?" Herb says. "I guess I can't do it for everyone, but this girl's my first case, and I'd like to try somehow."
[09:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> She just nods. "It's up to you how you handle it," she agrees. "That sounds fine."
[09:44] <Princess_Herb> "Cool!", Herb says. "I mean, uh, thank you for your advice."
[09:46] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Sure," she nods, then pauses. "Say... why don't you stop by in a few more days and tell me how it went?"
[09:48] <Princess_Herb> "I'd be glad to," says Herb. "I'll see you then."
[09:48] * Princess_Herb bows and takes her leave of Miss H.
[09:53] * Princess_Herb returns to her daily round, planning to call on the parents of the three girls that evening.
[09:11] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[09:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> As everyone works on the Chibi Usa readings, schoolwork or whatnot, Saturday rolls around. It's a special one - instead of classes, it's a big presentation of earned awards and such over the past year. All the students are seated in the lobby, along with teachers and so on. Even the Witches are there, scattered about the large auditorium. It's really that big, constructed to seat a few thousand and well filled, a U shape around a central stage.
[09:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> It starts slowly enough - this and that student got so and so, the first half hour going by like lead.
[09:15] * Usagi-chan stretches out in her uncomfortable chair, trying not to yawn her head off at the proceedings.
[09:17] <Rei-chan> Sitting next to Usagi, Rei only looks marginally more interested, at least trying to follow along and applaud whichever student gets whichever award.
[09:18] * Ami-chan watches the ceremonies with only partial attention, seated a few rows behind Usagi and Rei, mentally mapping out the final adjustments to her most recent project.
[09:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> Tellu and Viluy are near each other in the endless middle seats, half dozing for the latter and the former not far behind. Eudial was seen upstage briefly helping Professor Tomoe run the entire thing. The Twins are way in the back, and Hotaru is seated with her class.
[09:28] * Princess_Herb is with the teachers in the front row, sitting near to Miss H and trying to look attentive.
[09:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> At this point, Professor Tomoe heads upstage. As he does so, however, he seems to freeze in place solid a few steps away from the podium. At it in his place appears a familiar face - the man/thing from the wedding reception!
[09:31] * Usagi-chan leans forward in a hurry, a deep scowl on her face. "Not again..." She grits her teeth.
[09:31] <Rei-chan> "Shit," Rei curses quietly, looking around for a nearby exit or something in case she needs to transform.
[09:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> Raising a hand up as the student body murmurs in confusion, "Reveal." Saying it plainly, yet his voice travels over the entire auditorum! (OOC - Soul check +3, all.)
[09:32] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6+3
[09:32] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6+3 and gets 5."
[09:32] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6+3
[09:32] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6+3 and gets 11."
[09:32] <Ami-chan> roll 2d6+3
[09:32] * Hatbot --> "Ami-chan rolls 2d6+3 and gets 5."
[09:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[09:33] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[09:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[09:33] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[09:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[09:33] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[09:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[09:33] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[09:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[09:33] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[09:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[09:33] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[09:33] <Princess_Herb> roll 2d6+3
[09:33] * Hatbot --> "Princess_Herb rolls 2d6+3 and gets 11."
[09:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> The student population freezes, turning to transparency as before! Yet, Ami, Usagi, Rei, the Twins and Hotaru resist it, even as their friends go blank eyed and perfectly clear! Again you see the Crystal, the Mirror and that beautiful point of light, yet it seems to not satisfy the man.
[09:36] <Sailor_Anastasia> Hotaru staggers a bit but stands, confused as all her classmates are afflicted. "Rei-chan!" she calls, worry huge in her voice.
[09:36] * Usagi-chan quickly stands, shouting at the man. "Why are you doing this?" she yells angrily.
[09:36] * Ami-chan looks around at the clear bodies, shocked, but stands as well, moving up to Rei and Usagi's row.
[09:36] <Rei-chan> Turning at the voice of her 'little sister', Rei is relieved to see her still up and about. "Keep down, Hotaru-chan!" she calls, worried in case a fight breaks out in the crowded auditorium.
[09:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Not here," he says bluntly. At that, he turns his lifeless gaze to Usagi. "We have met before," he says to Usagi. "Twice you have resisted me. Do you hold untold powers in your soul, human? Perhaps even the Crystal I seek?"
[09:38] <Sailor_Anastasia> Hotaru nods, ducking down behind another row of seats.
[09:38] <Usagi-chan> "The Crystal is gone - just go away and leave us alone, all right?" she shouts back. "It's not here anymore!"
[09:38] <Rei-chan> Glad Hotaru at least has some cover, Rei turns her attention back to Zirae, letting Usagi handle the talking while she remains ready in case needed...
[09:40] <Sailor_Anastasia> "You lie. The universe bends here under the weight of the Silver Imperium Crystal." You can feel a deep chill from his eyes now, primal and making your skin dance with cold. "Are you the one, then?" Rising into the air, he starts to come to you, gravity holding him not at all. He just moves, no movement of the body as he zooms in...
[09:40] * Usagi-chan tries not to shudder as the man approaches. "I don't have it, I told you!"
[09:41] <Rei-chan> Shoving Usagi slightly, Rei quickly intersperses herself in front of the blonde in the narrow area between rows. "I don't know what you have planned, but leave us out of it!"
[09:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> He stops a bit away, eyeing Rei. "We have met as well, before. Stand aside, human."
[09:42] * Ami-chan closes ranks with Rei, blocking Usagi entirely. "The crystal is gone. She doesn't have it, and neither do we."
[09:42] <Rei-chan> "No," Rei stands her ground firmly. "If you want to fight..." her transformation pen appears in her hand, down by her hip.
[09:43] * Ami-chan does likewise, preparing for a fight...
[09:43] <Sailor_Anastasia> Above the girls in the air appear the Twins, another barrier between Zirae and Usagi. Gone are their uniforms, the old garb of the Witches back. "We don't know who you are," Ptilol asserts, "But we'll make sure you don't get to do this again."
[09:43] * Usagi-chan lets her brooch appear in her own hand, unwilling to let her friends fight alone.
[09:44] <Sailor_Anastasia> "You will stand against me," he asks plainly, not moving now.
[09:45] <Rei-chan> "If we have to," Rei nods determinedly, her jawline set.
[09:45] <Usagi-chan> "We won't let you hurt anyone here," Usagi says with conviction.
[09:45] <Ami-chan> "Yes." Ami replies simply.
[09:49] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Fools," is his own word. "Then perish."
[09:49] <Sailor_Anastasia> Pointing at Cyprine with one finger, "Begone from this world."
[09:50] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[09:50] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[09:51] <Sailor_Anastasia> Cyprine seems to shimmer a moment, slumping against her sister but resisting. You felt a force from that, something you can't really explain, but you know he just did something. Gasping in air as she leans against Ptilol and holds her stomach, "Ugh... Ptilol... he..."
[09:51] <Usagi-chan> "Cyprine!" Usagi shouts.
[09:52] <Sailor_Anastasia> The girl's aura dims notably at that, almost as if nearly blown out. "CYPRINE," Ptilol shouts, holding her.
[09:52] <Rei-chan> Rei pales slightly, before her hand whips upwards thrusting her pen into the air, "Mars Holy Power, MAKE UP!" she screams, transforming as quickly as possible to do battle with no hesitation!
[09:52] <Ami-chan> "No..." Ami whispers. "No! Mercury Holy Power... MAKE UP!" Ami shouts, raising her henshin wand aloft!
[09:53] <Usagi-chan> Rei's cry seems to galvanize Usagi into action, raising her own brooch as she too transforms. "Moon Purity Power, Make UP!"
[09:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Initiative.
[09:55] <Sailor_Mars> roll 1d6+10
[09:55] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 1d6+10 and gets 13."
[09:55] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[09:55] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 13."
[09:55] <Sailor_Mercury> roll 1d6+11
[09:55] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mercury rolls 1d6+11 and gets 12."
[09:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> Leaning on Ptilol and weak, Cyprine seems to be alive, though weak and drained from whatever he did...
[09:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[09:55] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[09:58] <Sailor_Mars> "Ptliol, get Cyprine out of here! Hotaru, go with them!" Rei yells, hopping up onto the back of the chair immediately in front of her as she produces her ash rods, twirling them about as she remains balanced and crying out "Mars Star Inferno!" as she releases a huge torrent of flame at the self proclaimed ruler of the universe!
[09:58] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6
[09:58] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[10:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> Making no effor to move, the flame rushes at Zirae! As it gets within a foot of him, it simply vanishes, as if the magic was never summoned. You can feel your power reaching that far, then just stopping from existing.
[10:01] <Sailor_Moon> 'What the...' Usagi gapes at the sudden disappearance of the attack, although she wastes no time in bringing her own staff to bear - hopefully he can't do this against two attacks at once. "Rainbow Moon Heartache!"
[10:01] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[10:01] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[10:01] * Sailor_Mars falters at that, but remains balanced on her current perch, mentally regrouping as fast as she can.
[10:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> The same thing happens again - as if willed into nonexistence, the attack simply is not there as it closes in on him! Usagi can feel the absolute, sharp divide caused by this...
[10:03] <Sailor_Moon> 'What the hell is he doing?' she thinks frantically.
[10:04] * Sailor_Mercury narrows her eyes her heart sinking as she watches the other attacks vanish but she sets her jaw and thrusts out a hand, concentrating... in a swirl of color, streams of blue collect in her hand, merging into a liquid marble of blue, spinning once to gather momentum, Ami hurls it at the monster, with a cry of "Shine Aqua Illusion!"
[10:04] <Sailor_Mercury> roll 2d6
[10:04] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mercury rolls 2d6 and gets 2."
[10:05] <Sailor_Mercury> roll 1d6
[10:05] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mercury rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[10:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> A truly powerful torrent of ice and water gushes from Mercury, yet even this superior attack ceases to be on arriving at its target!
[10:07] <Sailor_Anastasia> Zirae is still completely unemotional at this, now pointing at Mercury. "Die." (Soul check, Ami.)
[10:08] <Sailor_Mercury> roll 2d6 burning 30 EP for survival!
[10:08] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mercury rolls 2d6 burning 30 EP for survival! and gets 6."
[10:09] <Sailor_Anastasia> There feels like there is a disruption in Mercury's aura, the girl's transformation breaking as her very inner spirit is damaged, but she resists the worst of it! (20 HP and 30 EP damage)
[10:10] * Ami-chan cries out in pain as her transformation is reversed, and falls to the ground.
[10:11] <Sailor_Anastasia> Turning away from Ami, "Turn aside," he says to the others. "I shall not be merciful if you continue."
[10:12] <Sailor_Mars> "I won't let you hurt my friends!" Rei replies hotly, even as part of her quails at just how out of their league they seem to be.
[10:13] <Sailor_Moon> "Just leave us in peace! I told you, the Crystal isn't here - just go AWAY!" Moon shouts, feeling tears form in her eyes.
[10:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> "We won't let you continue this," Cyprine gasps, righting herself in the air slowly.
[10:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Submit, then. Submit to my eyes, human," is all he says, dead eyes on Usagi.
[10:14] <Sailor_Moon> "I won't submit to you!" Usagi says angrily, the tears spilling from her eyes. "I'd never submit to anyone that would hurt people like that!"
[10:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Initiative. Ami, go ahead and skip this round. Make an ouch reaction if you like, though.
[10:16] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[10:16] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[10:16] <Sailor_Mars> roll 1d6+10
[10:16] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 1d6+10 and gets 13."
[10:16] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[10:16] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 14."
[10:17] <Sailor_Moon> "I won't let you hurt any more of my friends!" Usagi shouts, pulling the Holy Grail from its place in storage. Closing her eyes, she focuses on it, forming a powerful shield of energy around herself and her friends to protect them from the power of Zirae - if she can.
[10:17] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[10:17] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[10:18] * Ami-chan struggles to get up, but every movement sends sparks of pain through her. Struggling to hold onto consciousness, she can only watch...
[10:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> A barrier of white springs forth from the Grail, a dome protecting the Senshi!
[10:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> Staring on at the shield, he simply points at it. "Begone." (Usagi, make a Soul check for the barrier.)
[10:21] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[10:21] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[10:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Usagi, make a Soul check +2 for the shock feedback, now.
[10:22] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+2
[10:22] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+2 and gets 8."
[10:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> The light barrier blinks a moment, but holds firm! But, a shockwave ripples through the field and back at Usagi, shaking her a bit! The way it hit the shield... it can't possibly take more of that, it seemed to be rooting it out at the core, so to speak.
[10:23] * Sailor_Moon grits her teeth, determined to hold the shield as long as she can.
[10:24] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6 for EP rejuve
[10:24] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 for EP rejuve and gets 6."
[10:24] <Sailor_Anastasia> The Twins hold firm for now, Cyprine still recovering...
[10:26] * Sailor_Mars crouches slightly on her perch, keeping under the barrier as her eyes dart around the auditorium for anything she could possibly use as a weapon against Zirae.
[10:27] <Sailor_Anastasia> There is the wooden podium where Tomoe was, and a few flagsticks with the Mugen logo on them you could probably use. (Initiative, then.)
[10:27] <Sailor_Mars> roll 1d6+10
[10:27] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 1d6+10 and gets 16."
[10:27] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[10:27] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 16."
[10:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 1d6
[10:28] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[10:29] * Sailor_Moon concentrates on bringing the shield back to full power once again, sweat streaming from her forehead at the exertion of maintaining it.
[10:29] <Ami-chan> roll 2d6 for EP rejuv
[10:29] * Hatbot --> "Ami-chan rolls 2d6 for EP rejuv and gets 8."
[10:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> Soaring forward now, Zirae comes to the barrier, touching it with his hand, palm out. (OOC - Usagi, make a Soul and Body check at +1 each.)
[10:31] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+1 for Soul
[10:31] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+1 for Soul and gets 6."
[10:31] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+1 for Body
[10:31] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+1 for Body and gets 5."
[10:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> The barrier is gone now, erased from this universe at his touch! A massive shockwave rocks Sailor Moon, yet the defender of love and justice stays up!
[10:38] * Sailor_Moon closes her eyes, rapidly searching through her options - and finding them precious few. Taking a deep breath, she closes her eyes, feeling herself change into the Lunar queen, Serenity.
[10:40] * Serenity holds the Grail high over her head, her mind reaching out to anyone, everyone that could possibly hear her. 'Please.... I need your help, everyone - I can't defeat this evil alone!' Focusing on the power of the Grail, she directs it towards the man who has so gravely injured her friends, trying to direct it around or through the reality-altering barrier around him!
[10:42] * Sailor_Mars closes her eyes, her tiara dissolving into white light as the symbol of Mars appears on her forehead, glowing vibrant crimson as she focuses all her energy to helping Serenity with her attack.
[10:46] * Ami-chan watches the scene with labored breaths, wishing she could assist, but unable to do more than wish her friends luck...
[10:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> In a moment, a beautiful force of white energy gathers around Serenity, the power of her friends at her disposal!
[10:49] * Serenity feels the energy gather, her eyes snapping open in an angry expression as she hurls the powerful force against Zirae! "Go.... AWAY!"
[10:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> The force slams into Zirae, whatever is around him and the power of the Grail and everyone meeting in a confrontation! As it does you, you feel that otherness around him crack a moment! For that second, you sense a mindblowing vastness past it, a whole... with that, it stops as does the attack, Zirae knocked a few feet back. His enchantment over everyone else has been broken, the students and teachers of Mugen stirring...
[10:56] * Serenity collapses to her knees, the Grail clattering to the floor of the auditorium. "What... IS he...?" Usagi whispers in a stunned tone.
[10:57] * Sailor_Mars staggers, both from the energy drain, the feeling she just got from Zirae, and the fact that he isn't dead. Finally losing balance, she falls back from her perch on top of the chair's back.
[10:57] <Sailor_Anastasia> Staring at Usagi, "Enough. We shall resume this another day... accursed Princess of the Moon." With that, he is gone.
[11:00] <Sailor_Anastasia> A moan beneath Sailor Mars and a hand way too close to a sensitive region for her own good tells her that the students are starting to stir...
[11:01] <Sailor_Mars> "Ah!" Rei quickly stands up, and decides that detransforming here would be a rather bad idea. Hopping back onto the chair in front, she then leaps to the side of the auditorium, quickly heading for an exit.
[11:02] * Serenity notes the stirring student body, but feels too weak to even attempt to move to a safer location. She simply lets her transformation drop, praying that no one catches sight of her.
[11:03] <Sailor_Anastasia> As this happens, the students get up, seemingly unaware that anything happened. Cyprine and Ptilol managed to vanish at the last moment, Professor Tomoe picking up a moment later with another annocement...
[11:03] * Ami-chan simply closes her eyes, and lets consciousness fade as the adrenaline keeping her from passing out fades...
[11:04] <Sailor_Mars> Into the empty halls of Mugen, Rei checks no one is around before detransforming and heading downstairs to the Witches office, passing a mental message to Usagi to let her know of that fact.
[11:05] * Usagi-chan manages to crawl over to Ami, acknowledging Rei's mental comment. At the blue-haired girl's side, she looks over her to make sure she's suffered no permanent injuries.
[11:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> Ami's aura is recovering, the girl seeming to only suffer exhaustion now...
[11:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> As you do so, "Hey, what're you two doing down there," a guy says, looking down to see the two. "Hey!"
[11:06] * Usagi-chan breathes a sigh of relief, ignoring the student. "Thank god," she whispers, barely keeping herself from collapsing on top of the other girl.
[11:07] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Hey, teacher," he calls out loud, in the middle of Tomoe's words, "They're two girls down here doin' something!"
[11:08] <Usagi-chan> 'Rei-chan, come back as soon as you can - I don't think I can get out of here by myself, much less get Ami out,' Usagi sends to her girlfriend, settling back on her knees as she blows out a tired sigh.
[11:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> Now that stops Professor Tomoe cold, the voice having carried as everyone in the row looks at Usagi.
[11:09] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Would you take care of this," he says over the microphone setup, two teachers heading through the rows now.
[11:09] * Princess_Herb looks over and sees that Ami-chan has collapsed. She gets up and walks over. "I'll take these students to the nurse's office, Professor."
[11:09] <Rei-chan> 'Coming,' Rei replies, reversing her course and returning to the auditorium at a brisk stride.
[11:10] * Usagi-chan manages to struggle to her feet, using the back of the row in front of her for support.
[11:11] <Rei-chan> Re-entering the auditorium by the same door she left, Rei hurries over to Usagi and Ami, shoving her way past the other students in the row.
[11:12] * Usagi-chan looks VERY pale, leaning on the back of the seats in front of her as she tries to hold herself up.
[11:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> There is a bit of a quiet commotion as everyone stares on at this, seeing Usagi standing.
[11:13] <Rei-chan> "Lean on me," Rei tells Usagi as she reaches her, kneeling down to pick up Ami's unconscious form.
[11:13] * Usagi-chan does so gratefully, placing an arm across Rei's shoulders as the miko helps to bear her weight.
[11:14] <Sailor_Anastasia> The three girls escape the auditorium shortly after, Professor Tomoe making a quick excuse and having another administrator take over for him as he quietly heads off...
[11:15] <Princess_Herb> "What happened?" Herb asks Rei-chan as she helps the others
[11:16] <Rei-chan> "Zirae happened," Rei tells Herb simply as she heads back down to the Witches office with Ami and Usagi, hoping to find the Twins there.
[11:17] * Usagi-chan does her best to take her own weight as the trio moves, knowing that Rei already has quite a burden just with carrying Ami.
[11:21] * Princess_Herb tries to assess whether the queen would be angry if she offered to carry her, and then. "Usagi-chan, should I carry you? You look shattered."
[11:23] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "I can walk... just need someone to help take the weight," she says shortly, her breathing labored. "My legs are really shaky right now."
[11:26] <Rei-chan> "Nearly there, Usagi," Rei says, shifting Ami's weight slightly in her arms as they head into the lower levels of Mugen before reaching the Witches office.
[11:26] * Princess_Herb nods and helps take some of the Queen's weight
[11:30] * Usagi-chan protests weakly as Herb takes her other arm, practically suspended between the two taller senshi at this point.
[11:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> Reaching the office, you find Cyprine and Ptilol already there, the former resting heavily on the couch...
[11:32] * Rei-chan leads Usagi over to the couch and sets Ami down next to the other blue-haired girl, looking Cyprine over critically to see how she's doing.
[11:34] * Usagi-chan falls onto the couch with a sigh, still looking white as a sheet.
[11:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> Rei - Cyprine is slowly recovering. Whatever he did to her hurt quite a bit. "Are you alright, Usagi?" Ptilol asks, then glances at Ami. "Is she alright?"
[11:35] * Rei-chan sits down heavily on the floor, more tired than she'd like to admit after all that. "That was..." she begins slowly, shaking her head. "My God, what the hell IS he?! That last shot was like what we did to Metallia, and it barely fazed him!"
[11:35] * Usagi-chan nods slowly. "We're both just exhausted... she doesn't seem to be hurt, just completely worn out."
[11:39] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nodding, "I don't know, Rei," Cyprine says tiredly, "But I didn't sense anything from him. It was like he wasn't there, almost."
[11:40] <Usagi-chan> "He's... I almost think he alters reality around himself, somehow," Usagi says, letting her head rest on the back of the couch. "The way our attacks just STOPPED when they got to him... I've never seen or heard of anything like it before."
[11:40] <Rei-chan> "For an instant..." Rei says softly, "As that attack hit, I could sense him. It was..." she struggles to find the words, "Metallia was like an abyss of despair and hatred, but Zirae... it was... it was like infinity. Primal, and too vast to comprehend..."
[11:43] * Usagi-chan nods in agreement, her eyes closed.
[11:43] <Princess_Herb> "I wonder what he could do if he got control of the crystal? His range doesn't seem great at the moment, only things and people close by," Herb says, thinking aloud.
[11:44] <Rei-chan> "We don't know his range, Herb. He got everyone in the auditorium with no trouble," Rei points out tiredly.
[11:45] <Usagi-chan> "And with as much as he can do now... I don't even want to imagine him getting the crystal," Usagi says, shuddering slightly. "It can only make things worse."
[11:45] <Rei-chan> "I wouldn't be surprised if he made the Crystal himself," Rei says sullenly, "Not after what he just did and what I sensed."
[11:47] <Usagi-chan> "What are we going to do?" Usagi says, sounding rather drained. "I threw everything I had at him and then some, and it didn't even dent him! How the heck are we supposed to stop him?"
[11:48] <Rei-chan> "Not with power," Rei shakes her head. "There's no way we can go toe to toe with him and win."
[11:48] <Usagi-chan> "Do you think he'll listen to reason?" Usagi says, the doubt clear in her voice.
[11:49] * Princess_Herb shakes her head mutely.
[11:50] <Rei-chan> "He wants the Crystal no matter what. And his parting words implied a strong dislike of the Lunar royal family," Rei sighs. "We need some plan, but I'm not seeing it."
[11:50] <Usagi-chan> "That would make sense if what we found in those books is right," Usagi says with a sigh. "From the sounds of it, the first Queen of the Moon took the Crystal from him and used it to found the Moon Kingdom."
[11:52] * Rei-chan nods. "I'm half wondering what he even needs the Crystal for, really." Standing up on tired legs, she goes over to her desk and pulls out a can of soda from the drawer. "Anyone want a drink?"
[11:52] * Usagi-chan smiles, raising her head. "Thanks, I could use a boost right now... I'm really beat."
[11:54] <Rei-chan> Taking out another can, Rei goes back to sit on the floor in front of the couch, handing one to Usagi and opening her own, promptly taking several long gulps.
[11:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> As you do so, the door opens, Professor Tomoe ducking in. "Is Ami alright," he asks, then repeats for Cyprine. "All of you look drained. Did something happen?"
[11:56] <Usagi-chan> "Zirae showed up," Usagi says with a sigh, popping the top of her own soda and draining a huge amount of it in one gulp.
[11:57] * Rei-chan nods. "Nearly killed Cyprine and Ami without even seeming to try," she adds hollowly.
[12:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> Tomoe blanches at that, "Just like that? I don't even remember anything happening unusually until that student called out about you."
[12:02] <Usagi-chan> "Everyone in the auditorium just seemed to freeze like what happened at the party," Usagi explains.
[12:03] <Rei-chan> "He stunned everyone just like he did at Motoki and Reika's party. Only us five," Rei gestures to herself, the girls on the couch, and Ptliol, "And Hotaru weren't affected. Then we fought him... or tried. Our strongest attacks had no effect on him..."
[12:04] <Usagi-chan> "I tried to put up a shield with the Grail so he couldn't attack us, but he took it down like it was nothing," Usagi adds, shaking her head.
[12:07] <Sailor_Anastasia> He frowns even more at that. "No effect at all, Rei? Did he avoid them?"
[12:08] <Rei-chan> "They simply ceased to exist just before hitting, like the magic powering them was nullified utterly," Rei says, shaking her head at the memory.
[12:11] <Princess_Herb> "We can't fight him normally, then." Herb says. "We'll have to look for other ways."
[12:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> Tomoe nods to Herb. "If he was this close, perhaps my machines got some data on him," he muses. "He has to have done something to stop those attacks."
[12:13] <Rei-chan> "I think... I think he uses some means to hide his own true power, and nullifying all magic around him is just a side-effect..." Rei says hesitantly. "I'm not sure, but..." It does seem to fit, even if it also bodes incredibly ill for them.
[12:13] <Usagi-chan> "I wish I knew what it was," Usagi says with a sigh. "I let him have it with everything I had and then some, and it just barely managed to crack whatever it was. And Rei-chan might be right - when it DID crack, I just got this sense of a vast, overwhelming... SOMETHING."
[12:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> Thinking, "I'll go and check my readings," he decides. "Did you sense anything helpful from that, Usagi?"
[12:19] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "I wish I could BE more help," Usagi says tiredly. "It was mindblowing, whatever it was - I'm still not sure what I felt from him."
[12:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> "We'll figure it out," he says quietly, leaving.
[12:24] * Usagi-chan takes another sip of her soda, a melancholy look on her face. "I sure hope so," she says quietly.
[12:25] <Rei-chan> "We can't continue like this, that's for sure," Rei nods, sighing tiredly. "We don't stand a chance in an open fight against that kind of power."
[12:26] <Usagi-chan> "What are we going to do when he..." Usagi chokes up a bit. "When he finds Chibi Usa?" she finishes, her voice breaking.
[12:27] * Rei-chan doesn't have a ready answer to that. "We'll just have to find a solution before he does," is all she can offer.
[12:29] <Princess_Herb> "I don't think he can detect her, for some reason, which is why he's following the Queen around." Herb says. "Otherwise why confront us?"
[12:30] <Rei-chan> "What makes you think he's following her?" Rei asks, blinking. "It seems more like he's just hitting large gatherings of people and searching everyone he can."
[12:30] * Usagi-chan nods. "He seemed more surprised than anything to run into us again," Usagi says. "I don't think he was expecting us at all."
[12:30] * Ami-chan opens her eyes slowly, quietly looking around, disoriented and weak...
[12:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> At this, Cyprine says quietly, her sister holding her. "We're going to go rest," Cyprine says, the two vanishing away a moment later.
[12:31] * Rei-chan nods as the twins depart, also noticing Ami's recovery. "Ami-chan!" she stands up quickly, "How do you feel?"
[12:32] * Usagi-chan looks over at the blue-haired girl next to her quickly. "Ami-chan?"
[12:32] * Ami-chan smiles faintly. "Weak." She admits, trying to sit up.
[12:33] <Princess_Herb> "Would you like something to drink?" Herb says, offering Ami-chan a can of soda
[12:33] <Usagi-chan> "Just take it easy, Ami-chan... you look about as good as I feel," Usagi says with a weak smile.
[12:33] * Rei-chan nods. "Whatever Zirae did to you, it didn't look pleasant."
[12:34] * Ami-chan tries to smile, but can't but much into it. "It... hurt. A lot." She says softly, apparently acquiring a gift for understament.
[12:35] * Ami-chan looks over at Herb, blearily noticing him for the first time. "Not just yet, but thank you..."
[12:35] <Usagi-chan> "Just rest for now, Ami-chan," Usagi says, leaning back on the couch herself. "It looks like that's all we CAN do for now, anyway."
[12:36] * Ami-chan nods. "Cyprine...?"
[12:36] <Usagi-chan> "She's all right too, but she's resting up as well," Usagi explains.
[12:37] <Rei-chan> "She's about the same as you - fine with a little rest," Rei reassures her, "She and Ptliol went home just a minute ago."
[12:38] * Ami-chan sighs and nods, relaxing a little. "That's good..." she says finally, thinking. "We're going to need a new approach..." she sighs after a moment's thought.
[12:39] <Rei-chan> "Definitely," Rei agrees, sitting once more. "Attacking head on against him is pointless."
[12:39] <Usagi-chan> "I'm all ears," Usagi says with a sigh, shifting her position on the couch a bit. "I don't know what else to do."
[12:42] <Ami-chan> "Aikido." Ami ventures. "...Something along those lines?"
[12:42] * Usagi-chan blinks. "Huh?"
[12:42] <Rei-chan> "Use his own power against him?" Rei asks, snorting.
[12:43] <Ami-chan> "If we can." Ami shrugs, sighing. "Or, at least, finding a way to redirect it safely."
[12:44] <Usagi-chan> "I couldn't even see how it WORKED, Ami-chan," Usagi says with a sigh. "Just that he said something and it happened - or tried to, at least. No energy moving, nothing."
[12:44] <Rei-chan> "It definitely seems like he has his power under very tight control. Doing anything to disrupt it would be near impossible - only that last attack came close, and we can hardly do that on a regular basis," Rei adds, leaning back.
[12:45] * Usagi-chan nods glumly. "I put everything I could muster into that - and if it doesn't work if we try it again, I'm a sitting duck."
[12:46] * Ami-chan nods, frowning. "I wonder, though... Rei-chan... just before I passed out, when he stumbled... did he lose his hold on everyone?"
[12:47] <Rei-chan> "Yeah," Rei nods. "As the attack hit and I could sense his true nature for an instant, everyone else started to stir after that." She frowns, "Maybe it did affect him more than we realise? If he hadn't retreated, we'd have been easy prey, there."
[12:47] <Usagi-chan> "That's for sure," Usagi agrees. "I couldn't even stand up, but all he did was curse me and disappear."
[12:48] * Ami-chan nods. "Perhaps... perhaps we can find a way to disrupt his control, then?"
[12:48] <Rei-chan> "We can't rely on an assumption, but... it is something..." Rei concedes. Turning to Ami, "But what happens when we disrupt it?" Wincing slightly, "Do you remember what happened to Oxyite?"
[12:49] * Ami-chan winces as well. "It's not an idea to implement without more data." she agrees fervently. "But it's a place to start, ne?"
[12:50] <Rei-chan> "Yeah," Rei nods, "If we can disrupt it without it actually going critical, we might be able to deal with him on a more even footing..."
[12:50] <Ami-chan> "I wish I'd been able to scan him." Ami sighs. "We might have an idea how to go about things."
[12:51] <Rei-chan> "Hopefully the Professor's equipment got something, but if not then I'm sure you'll get another chance. This isn't the last time we'll see him..." Rei says grimly.
[12:51] * Usagi-chan closes her eyes, her thoughts turning to the little pink-haired girl waiting for her at home.
[12:52] <Ami-chan> "I don't know that I can survive another chance..." Ami sighs. "Still not strong enough..."
[12:53] <Usagi-chan> "None of us were, Ami-chan," Usagi says sympathetically.
[12:53] * Rei-chan nods, definitely agreeing to that.
[12:57] <Rei-chan> "We might not be strong enough, but all we need to be is smart enough to figure out a plan, right?" Rei gives Ami an encouraging smile, hoping to cheer the blue-haired genius up.
[12:59] * Ami-chan smiles weakly, sighing in agreement, and letting her private worries drop for the moment. "I hope so." she agrees. "I just hope the Professor managed to obtain some useful readings..."
[13:16] <Usagi-chan> "I just hope Chibi Usa will be all right," Usagi whispers, closing her eyes once more.
[13:18] <Rei-chan> "She will be," Rei reaches over and squeezes Usagi's knee reassuringly. "We'll protect her."
[13:18] <Ami-chan> Ami bites her lip. "Usagi-chan... we need to double the precautions with her... there's something you should know."
[13:19] * Usagi-chan gives Ami a bleak look. "What is it?"
[13:21] <Ami-chan> "The readings I took the other day... there was a curious blurring. The crystal is bonding itself to Chibi Usa's biorhythms themselves."
[13:21] <Rei-chan> "So... doesn't that mean he won't be able to remove it from her?" Rei asks, confused as to why Ami looks as if that's a bad thing.
[13:23] <Ami-chan> "Either that, or..." She hesitates, glancing apologetically at Usagi with a pained expression. "She may be killed if he's motivated to remove it by force."
[13:23] <Rei-chan> "She'd die if he removed it anyway, though," Rei points out. "That doesn't change anything."
[13:23] <Princess_Herb> "Or that she will become, for all intents and purposes, the crystal?"
[13:24] * Usagi-chan sighs. "It's not any worse than things would have been otherwise," the blonde says with a sigh. "The crystal is the only thing keeping her from joining Crystal Tokyo and everyone else who lived there - if it's taken away from her, she'll just stop existing."
[13:25] * Ami-chan blinks, then nods, blushing. "You're right... I'd forgotten." She admits.
[13:26] * Rei-chan sighs. "We're all under a lot of stress..." she says, excusing Ami's lapse.
[13:28] * Ami-chan mentally makes a note to think more carefully before speaking, next time. "With no end in sight." She agrees softly.
[13:28] <Princess_Herb> "But if Chibi Usa is the only remaining part of the reality that that crystal exists to support, won't it disappear as well if it's removed from her? Or am I just hopelessly confused again." Herb asks
[13:29] <Usagi-chan> "I don't know, Herb," Usagi says. "It might, but then it's probably more than powerful enough to support its own existence."
[13:29] <Rei-chan> "From what Pluto said, the crystal is powerful enough to support itself and Chibi Usa, just as Shadow Tokyo supported Rubeus even though his future was gone as well," Rei says, nodding to Usagi.
[13:35] <Ami-chan> "Just more reason why he shouldn't have it." Ami murmurs firmly, sounding a bit more drained. "There's nothing that needs me, is there?" Ami asks softly. "Because I'd really like to sleep about now..."
[13:36] <Rei-chan> "Go ahead, Ami," Rei nods. "Best to rest as much as you can after that."
[13:37] <Usagi-chan> "You can go ahead and take the couch here, Ami-chan - if you can help me get home, Rei, I'd really appreciate it. I'd like to go see Chibi Usa and get some rest myself."
[13:38] * Ami-chan nods, smiling wearily at Rei and Usagi. "Sorry..." she mumbles, and, not having the energy to try and make it home, and curls up on the couch, closing her eyes...
[13:38] <Rei-chan> "Sure," Rei promptly stands up and offers Usagi a hand, tossing her empty can of soda in the bin.
[13:38] * Usagi-chan lets the raven-haired girl help her to her feet, disposing of her empty soda as well. "Thanks, Rei-chan."
[13:39] <Rei-chan> "It's no problem," Rei shakes her head. "Rest well, Ami-chan," she says to the blue-haired girl, before leading Usagi out of the office.

[15:46] <Ana-away> Once home, Usagi heads straight to bed after a snack, falling asleep rather soundly. After several hours of napping, fragmented with dreams of Chibi Usa falling apart in front of you, Usagi is woken by her mother. "Usagi-chan... Usagi-chan!"
[15:47] * Usagi-chan stirs groggily. "..mmm is it?" she half-mumbles, sitting up in bed.
[15:48] <Ana-away> "You have a visitor, Usagi-chan," she insists, not sounding quite cheery.
[15:48] * Usagi-chan struggles out of bed, not feeling all that rested as she gets up. "Mmmkay, on my way," she says, still half-asleep as she heads downstairs.
[15:50] <Ana-away> Heading downstairs and wiping sleep sand from your eyes, you find Viluy sitting in the living room, sipping a cup of tea. She holds it with both hands over the other, taking tiny sips like a noblewoman enjoying afternoon high tea would. Turning to you, "Hello, Usagi. Professor Tomoe asked me to stop over since it was on the way."
[15:51] * Usagi-chan nods, taking a seat on the couch as she tries to wake herself up. "Did he find anything?" she asks.
[15:52] <Ana-away> "He's been working since you left," she nods. A small smile plays across her face as she leans over to the pot of tea, pouring you a cup. "He's found some highly interesting readings."
[15:53] <Usagi-chan> "Interesting how?" Usagi looks puzzled. "Is it anything we can use?"
[15:54] <Ana-away> She pauses a bit, handing you tea in the meanwhile. "I'm not entirely sure," she admits. "From all he's gathered from the incomplete readings, there seems to be a great deal of energy in him. Yet there is no flow of it around him - for all it appears to be, he should be a rock on the ground or a dead branch."
[15:55] * Usagi-chan nods, sipping at the hot tea gingerly. "That makes sense with what I sensed - it was like he wasn't even there at all."
[15:57] <Ana-away> "How is he doing it is another matter," the girl goes on, brushing back a stray lock of sea green hair. Maybe it's just you, but it seems as if it the green is encroaching even more on the silvery hair. "It's like a ball of lighting wrapped in rubber."
[15:57] * Usagi-chan nods, blowing on the tea to cool it down a little. "Except that it's magic instead of lightning. And when we tried to use magic against him, it hit the rubber and stopped."
[15:59] <Ana-away> Viluy giggles lightly at that, smiling. "Mixed metaphor aside, that's exactly right. It's keeping him mostly separated from the power of this world. But, he must be able to access some of his energy through it. Otherwise, he'd be no different than a normal human being."
[16:00] <Usagi-chan> "So there's some kind of connection between him and the outside world," Usagi muses. "That makes sense - the trick is finding it and using it against him, though. I can't sense anything about that barrier of his, so I can't tell where it is myself - did the Professor find anything?"
[16:01] <Ana-away> Her smile fades a bit at that, the girl becoming more composed. "Nothing much at all. The readings were incomplete as his energy made most of the sensing difficult for the second the machines had."
[16:02] * Usagi-chan sighs. "Why am I not surprised? Things should be so easy." She flops back on the couch, taking another drink from her teacup.
[16:03] <Ana-away> "Sadly so, Usagi," Viluy agrees, turning to you. "But... also, are you feeling better now? Professor Tomoe said you were feeling tired today."
[16:04] <Usagi-chan> "That would be an understatement," Usagi grumbles. "I couldn't even walk out of the auditorium by myself after the fight."
[16:05] <Ana-away> "Poor girl," Viluy smiles a bit. Letting that settle a moment, "Usagi, I've never seen your room," she says abruptly. "Why don't you show me, since I'm here already?"
[16:06] * Usagi-chan blinks, a bit surprised. "Um... sure, if you want," she says, rising from her seat. "It's kind of messy right now though - I wasn't expecting visitors."
[16:08] <Ana-away> "That's fine," she nods, rising. "I don't mind a bit of a mess."
[16:09] * Usagi-chan shrugs, taking a last sip of her tea and setting it down before leading Viluy up to her bedroom. "This is the place," she announces with a small smile. "Nothing too fancy, but it's home."
[16:10] <Ana-away> She nods, going over and sitting down. With the sea green in her hair, the greenish shades of the Mugen uniform look nice on her, you note. "Usagi..." she begins, more serious than you expected, "You remember a lot of your past life, don't you?"
[16:10] * Usagi-chan nods. "More than most of the others, yeah," she agrees.
[16:11] <Ana-away> A momentary pause, Viluy's face twitching. "Did you ever meet Sailor Neptune - Michiru?"
[16:13] * Usagi-chan sighs, having expected something like this. She takes a seat on her bed, looking over at Viluy. "Only once that I can really remember - some kind of grand banquet for the entire system leadership, and just about everyone was there. It's the only real memory I have of Haruka too."
[16:15] <Anastasia-chan> "Oh," she says quietly, looking over at you. "...I don't know if you've talked to Haruka about it or not, but... from what you do remember, do I remind you of Michiru at all?"
[16:17] <Usagi-chan> "I haven't talked to her about it, no," Usagi says. "The streak in your hair is the same color hers was, though - I remember that much about her, and that she was a lot nicer than I expected her to be."
[16:18] <Anastasia-chan> Viluy nods once, said streak colorful in contrast to her otherwise silvery hair. "It's just that ever since I became Sailor Neptune, I've been feeling differently. From what Haruka says, I'm acting more like Michiru now than my old self." Folding her hands in her lap as she speaks, she looks on at you.
[16:19] * Usagi-chan looks at Viluy in surprise, unsure of what to say at first. "....does it bother you? I didn't have any idea it would do anything like that," she says worriedly.
[16:22] <Anastasia-chan> Her eyes are firm, though you can detect a bit of worry in the stirring depths of them. "I don't know, Usagi. I enjoy spending a few hours doing my hair and getting a manicure now, or learning an instrument. I'd even rather do that over working on my computer."
[16:23] * Usagi-chan looks rather worried herself at that. "...I'm sorry, I didn't know it was going to do that to you, Viluy. I should have looked into it more before I asked you."
[16:24] <Anastasia-chan> Viluy catches your gaze, a strange mixed smile on her face. "Don't apologize, Usagi. I'm worried... but I'm not unhappy, either. When I don't fret about it much, I'm having more fun than I've had in a long time. A large part of me likes what I'm doing now."
[16:25] * Usagi-chan looks up at the silver-and-green haired girl. "Are you sure? You're not just saying that to make me feel better?"
[16:26] <Anastasia-chan> Her smile flickers a bit there, but she answers anyway, "I'm sure, Usagi. Most of it is fine."
[16:27] * Usagi-chan notes the flicker, but doesn't respond to it. "If you're sure," she says hesitantly. "What are you going to do for now, though?"
[16:27] <Anastasia-chan> "For now? I'm going to stop by Haruka's tonight for a music lesson. Past that? Keep helping Professor Tomoe and yourself with the current crisis."
[16:29] * Usagi-chan nods, still looking rather upset. "...all right, I guess. If it ever starts to really get you upset though, let me know, all right? I'll try to find out if there's something I can do to help."
[16:31] <Anastasia-chan> "Thank you, Usagi," she nods to that. "There is one thing..." she pauses, taking something out of the school briefcase she's carried around. "Why don't you come with me and Haruka, if I can talk her into it, to the beauty shop Monday after class? I've been going there a lot lately, so they gave me a few free treatment passes to try and get my friends interested. And it's a good thing, since it's boring there if you don't have anyone to talk to."
[16:32] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit. "I guess I could come along if you want me to," she agrees. "I'll just wait for you in the office after school, I guess."
[16:34] <Anastasia-chan> Nodding and handing you a little advertisement with a 'free treatment' coupon attached on the bottom, "Thanks, Usagi. If I can just drag Haruka there, I'm sure all three of us will have fun."
[16:35] * Usagi-chan giggles a bit at that. "Yeah, getting Haruka to go might be kind of tough - I'm not sure she'd want to be seen getting her nails done."
[16:37] <Anastasia-chan> Viluy giggles right back, her mood lightening. "She'd probably think that it wouldn't do for her to be walking around in that male uniform with perfect nails and fresh from a facial."
[16:38] <Usagi-chan> "I'll just get them messed up working on my car," Usagi says, lowering her voice in a passable imitation of Haruka's gruff tone. "You two go on without me."
[16:39] <Anastasia-chan> That causes Viluy to honestly giggle even harder. "It'll take some work, but I think I can manage to drag her away from that car for an afternoon." Thinking, "I have two more flyers besides the one meant for Haruka. Do you want to invite anyone else, Usagi?"
[16:41] * Usagi-chan grins. "I'll see if I can't get Ami to come along at least - I've been trying to get her to take a break more often and relax, so this would be perfect for her. I'd ask Rei to come too, if that's all right with you."
[16:42] <Anastasia-chan> "That's fine," she smiles. "I should get to know my fellow Sailors better, anyway." At that, she rises. "And... speaking of such, I should get going to Haruka's."
[16:43] * Usagi-chan nods, standing as well. "All right. Enjoy your music lesson tonight," she says with a smile.
[16:44] <Anastasia-chan> "I'll have fun as long as- I'll have fun, Usagi," she says, tripping over her tongue but recovering quickly. Leaving, she waves. "Say hi to Luna for me, since she's out. I wanted to see her again."
[16:46] <Usagi-chan> "I will. See you later, Viluy!" Usagi says, waving to the older girl from the door.
[23:25] <Anastasia> ---
[23:28] <Anastasia> Oversleeping by two hours because your alarm broke and missing a good chunk of a short day already, Haruka didn't really see any point to showing up to school. 'sides, it was some stupid awards ceremony day, which means sitting in the auditorum and napping. So, no great loss, Haruka's day going by..
[23:29] <Anastasia> But as things have had a habit of over the past several months, Haruka's peaceful solitude is disrupted by a soft but firm knock on her apartment door just a hair past six PM.
[23:32] * Haruka makes her way to the door curiously. She's dressed, but she's still sporting a towel around her shoulders to dry her hair after exiting the showers not too long ago. Opening the door, she looks at her visitor.
[23:34] <Anastasia> Dressed in the summer uniform of Mugen is Viluy, holding her school briefcase in front of her. She smiles at seeing you, reaching her eyes. "Hiya, Haruka. Can I come in?"
[23:37] * Haruka blinks at how cheery Viluy seems, but steps aside to give her access. "Sure," she replies with a smile, though catching the colored streak in Viluy's hair blunts it somewhat.
[23:41] <Anastasia> Entering, Viluy slips out of her shoes - slight lifts - and pads over to your couch, sitting. "Did you miss school today, Haruka?"
[23:44] * Haruka takes a seat to Viluy's right then gives her hair one last whisk of the towel before turning her attention to her company. "I just wasn't up for school today," she replies with a shrug, figuring it was a better answer than 'I overslept'.
[23:47] <Anastasia> She nods to that. "You picked a day to miss. Zirae showed up at the awards ceremony," Viluy informs you, serious now and that smile gone. "searching for the Crystal. "
[23:49] * Haruka frowns at that. "That's twice now..." she grumbles disgustedly.
[23:50] <Anastasia> "Yes, and he battled with Usagi and the others. It... they couldn't hurt him at all, and he nearly killed Ami and Cyprine like they were nothing."
[23:50] <Anastasia> Viluy purses her lips slightly, unhappy. "Their attacks just vanished as they got close to him. I've never heard of anything like it."
[23:54] * Haruka makes a mental note to check up on those two at the next opportunity while nodding at the new info Viluy provides. "I wonder if he can make the Space Sword sticking out of his chest disappear..." she mumbles, mulling over the enormity of their newest enemy.
[23:57] <Anastasia> She smiles slightly at that. "Worth a try, Haruka. I don't think Usagi will object. If anything, Professor Tomoe was worried about her after the battle. She was a bit shaken, really."
[23:59] <Haruka> "She's -has- been overtaxing herself since our cross-dimensional hijinks to help Chibi Usa's world," Haruka notes.
[00:03] <Anastasia> Viluy nods. "Anyway, Usagi hit him with an amazing attack with the Grail and gathered energy, and it barely fazed him." At that, she frowns again. "I heard secondhand that she said it was as strong as the attack that killed Metallia, too."
[00:07] * Haruka mentally gnaws on that bone of an information with a serious look. "The situation certainly seems bleak, doesn't it?" she addresses to Viluy with a crooked smile before chuckling. "Have any regrets about joining our merry team given such a foe?"
[00:10] <Anastasia> "Heh, I was thinking about that today," she admits. "And I'm not. No matter what happens." At that, she smiles. "But enough about business for now. You don't have any plans for Monday, do you?"
[00:13] <Haruka> "I don't think so, but Monday is so far away..." she drawls before cocking her head. "Why, what do you see me doing this Monday?" Haruka beams an amused smile at Viluy.
[00:16] <Anastasia> "Well, myself, Usagi, Rei and Ami are going to a beauty shop with free tickets, and we'd like you to come too," she says winsomely, the feeling of her proding you just below the surface felt.
[09:31] <Haruka> "A beauty shop...?" Haruka echoes dubiously, giving Viluy a funny look. "Now, why would I want to pretty up my hair and nails when it's just going to get messed up after working on my car and stuff?" She crosses her arms over her chest. "You guys go on without me," she finishes gruffly, turning away.
[09:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> Viluy stands, smiling slightly. "Come on, Haruka. You aren't getting away that easily. You need to get out of this apartment and have some fun with the girls."
[09:40] <Haruka> "Hey," Haruka begins in a slightly indignant tone. "I'll have you know that I -do- get out the apartment when I've got the time."
[09:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Then you'll have time," Smiling sweetly, Viluy gracefully leans over to you, putting the pressure on, "on Monday, won't you?"
[09:51] * Haruka scoots back slightly, to get out of range of this strange, potent magical field of influence. "Maybe," she answers back non-committally.
[09:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> Smiling like a cat almost, now, "I'll take that as a yes," she says, reaching into her school case and pulling out a white paper flyer. "The free ticket is on here, we're meeting at the office after school Monday."
[10:03] * Haruka leans back in her seat, staring at the offending ticket with trepidation. "I didn't even lose a bet with Makoto to get wrangled into this..." she grumbles.
[10:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> "So?" Viluy just smiles. "We'll have fun with this, so what's it matter?"
[10:13] <Haruka> "Okay, okay," Haruka relents with a sigh of defeat.
-------
[21:37] <Halbarad> The next week passes fairly slowly. Ann offers to spar with Natsume at lunch again in the early part of the week, but when Friday rolls around she seems rather distracted all day - she doesn't even pay any attention to the kendoist at lunch, and heads home immediately afterwards.
[21:39] <Halbarad> Saturday school comes and goes, but afterwards there's no sign of Usagi, either at Juuban Middle or at her spot in the park. A phone call to her home reveals that she's taking a nap, and that if you want to reach her you'll need to try back later in the day.
[21:42] <Halbarad> Thus the samurai girl heads home, her grandfather taking up most of the rest of her afternoon with training and a few errands. The last errand finishes around six in the evening, and by coincidence leaves you only a couple of blocks from the Tsukino home - you remember where it was from the first time you met the blonde girl.
[21:43] <Natsume> "Hm..." Natsume thinks momentarily to herself. "Why not?"
[21:43] * Natsume decides to visit, this time without being beaten unconscious.
[21:44] <Halbarad> It only takes a few minutes for you to arrive at the modest two-story home, and a quick knock on the door reveals a middle-aged woman with blue hair and eyes. "Yes, can I help you?" she asks.
[21:47] <Natsume> "Hello, my name Kusanagi Natsume," she introduces herself while bowing. "I'm a friend of Usagi. I was wondering if she was in at the moment."
[21:48] <Halbarad> The woman sighs a bit, shaking her head before turning inside the house. "Usagi, there's a girl named Natsume here to see you!" she calls out.
[21:49] <Halbarad> "Oh man, I didn't even think about that," you hear Usagi say. "Let her in, I'll talk to her up in my room!" she calls back.
[21:51] <Halbarad> The woman sighs, but nods to Natsume. "Come on in, she'll be just a minute."
[21:51] <Natsume> "Thank you."
[21:53] <Halbarad> The house is about as you remember it the last time you were here - very well kept. As you enter, you see Usagi get up from the couch in the living room, doing something with the braid that runs across her forehead. "Sorry about this afternoon, Natsume - I kind of got caught up in other things and couldn't make it," she says apologetically.
[21:54] <Halbarad> She's dressed in a set of pink pajamas, and you notice that she looks VERY pale - not quite as white as a sheet, but headed in that direction, certainly.
[21:54] <Natsume> "Oh, I don't mind," Natsume waves it off. "Uhhh... are you feeling okay, Tsukino-san?"
[21:55] <Usagi-chan> "I've had better days," she says, frowning a bit. "Come on up to my room, we can talk up there." She pats Chibi Usa on the head - it looks like the two were playing a video game before you arrived - and heads for the stairs, looking a bit wobbly on her feet.
[21:58] * Natsume makes a note to be prepared in case she loses her footing...
[22:00] * Usagi-chan makes it up the stairs without incident, although she does lean on the wall quite a bit, stopping once on the stairs to gather herself before going on. In her bedroom, she takes a seat on her bed, running a hand through her hair - she really looks tired. "I'm really sorry about this afternoon, your training session completely slipped my mind."
[22:01] <Natsume> "Its no problem, really," she says again. "You seem to have more important things to worry about than our session anyway."
[22:03] * Usagi-chan nods. "There was an attack this morning at Mugen," she says, staring at a spot on the floor a few feet away from her. "We were lucky to all make it out safely."
[22:06] <Natsume> "What happened? Who would attack your school?" Natsume asks.
[22:08] <Usagi-chan> "We're still trying to work out who he is exactly, but it's a guy named Zirae," Usagi says with a sigh. "He's after a very powerful magical item I used to have, and it looks like he's willing to do just about anything to get his hands on it."
[22:12] <Natsume> "What is this magical thing he's after?" Natsume asks. "The only one I know of is the Holy Grail you showed me."
[22:14] <Usagi-chan> "It's something that's actually stronger than even the Grail," Usagi explains, resting her elbows on her knees. "It's called the Silver Imperium Crystal, and it's something I used to destroy a very powerful evil towards the end of last year with the other senshi."
[22:15] <Natsume> "You said the Holy Grail had the power to destroy the world, and you say this Silver Imperium Crystal is even stronger?" Natsume says in disbelief.
[22:16] <Usagi-chan> "They're close, but yeah, I'd say the Crystal is stronger," Usagi nods.
[22:18] * Natsume's chin would probably hit the floor, if that were physically possible.
[22:18] <Natsume> "You said you used to have it," Natsume says. "What happened to it?"
[22:19] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "I have no idea, it vanished completely after I used it to defeat that evil I mentioned before. We haven't seen this world's Crystal since - I don't even know if it still exists."
[22:20] <Natsume> "I assume this Zirae person isn't aware of that..."
[22:21] <Usagi-chan> "Oh, he knows there's A Silver Crystal here," Usagi says, a troubled look on her face. "You remember how I told you Chibi Usa is actually from another world?"
[22:21] <Natsume> "Yes."
[22:22] <Usagi-chan> "She actually has the Silver Crystal from her home world inside her body," the blonde explains. "And right now, it's the only thing keeping her alive."
[22:25] <Natsume> "So this Zirae person and wants to kill her and take the crystal?" Natsume asks. "What kind of monster would do that to a little girl?"
[22:27] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "I don't think he knows exactly where the Crystal is, or he'd already have taken it from her. But it's... probably just a matter of time before he actually DOES find her," she says in a small voice. "And I don't know how or if we can stop him before that happens."
[22:32] <Natsume> "I see," Natsume whispers. "Well, if there's absolutely anything I can do to help, just tell me."
[22:33] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit. "I appreciate the offer, but almost everyone but us gets knocked out as soon as he shows up - if he ever comes near you, you'll probably never even know it. But if you do, just promise me you'll stay clear of him - you don't need to put yourself in danger."
[22:35] <Natsume> "I will," Natsume says reluctantly. "You... said that Chibi-Usa needs that crystal to stay alive. Does she have a weak heart or something?"
[22:37] <Usagi-chan> "It has to do with where she's from," Usagi says after a moment. "In her world, she's actually from its future. But things happened in its 'present' that stopped that future from ever happening - that world's history basically got changed. And since everyone from her time stopped existing - including her parents - she should have too. The magical power of the Crystal is keeping that from happening, though."
[22:42] <Natsume> "I couldn't imagine having everything I knew wiped from existence," Natsume whispers. "I can see now why she clings to you so tightly."
[22:44] * Usagi-chan nods. "And in a way, I AM her mother," Usagi says. "That world is almost exactly like this one - it has the senshi guarding Tokyo there, too. And her mother in the future would have been my 'twin' from that world. That's why I remind her so much of her mother."
[22:50] <Natsume> "Times like this I can't stand being so helpless," Natsume says in disgust. "I wish I could do something... anything."
[22:52] * Usagi-chan rubs her forehead - you think you can spot a flicker of light from beneath her braid as she does so. "You're not the only one, Natsume. This time, I'm about as helpless as you are - I threw everything I had at Zirae today, and it barely even fazed him."
[22:54] <Natsume> "No wonder you look so weak," she notes.
[22:57] <Usagi-chan> "I almost collapsed after he disappeared," she says quietly. "Every last ounce of power I could manage, and it didn't do anything close to enough to stop him." She closes her eyes, a sad expression on her face.
[22:58] <Natsume> "What... kind of being is he?" Natsume wonders, unable to really fathom an enemy the senshi were completely impotent against.
[22:59] <Usagi-chan> "I don't even know," Usagi replies. "I only got a sense of his power for a second, and I couldn't believe how vast it was. He claims to be the born ruler of the universe, but we haven't been able to really find out much about him anywhere else."
[23:01] <Natsume> "If he's so powerful, what does he need the crystal for?" Natsume asks.
[23:03] <Usagi-chan> "He says it was stolen from him, and from the little we know about the crystal, it looks like it might have been an ancestor of mine that took it." Usagi sighs. "I can't really blame her at all though, considering what she did with it and the way things were before she got it - at least from what little I've been able to find out."
[23:06] <Natsume> "So... what now? Will you try to face him again?"
[23:07] <Usagi-chan> "Try?" Usagi laughs humorlessly. "I'll do whatever it takes to keep him from hurting Chibi Usa, but... considering what happened today, it may not be all that much. He'll have to go through me to get to her, though," she says determinedly.
[23:09] <Natsume> "What about the senshi? Are they okay?"
[23:11] <Usagi-chan> "A-Sailor Mercury took a bad hit, and another friend who isn't a senshi took another one. They're okay, but it really hurt them pretty badly - they'll probably need a day or two to recover."
[23:13] * Natsume thinks for a moment. "Ann was acting pretty odd today. She was being very withdrawn which usually isn't like her," Natsume remembers. "Does this have anything to do with it?"
[23:14] <Usagi-chan> "She knows what's going on," Usagi says. "She was there the first time he showed up."
[23:15] <Natsume> "If need be, Chibi Usa could stay with my family," Natsume suggests. "If Zirae doesn't know about me, she should be safe."
[23:17] * Usagi-chan shakes her head at that. "It wouldn't matter - he can sense the Crystal, although he doesn't seem to be able to pinpoint it very well. For now I'm just keeping her with me and after today, trying to keep her out of places where there's a lot of people - both of the places he's showed up so far have been absolutely packed with people."
[23:18] * Natsume sighs. "If only my sword were stronger," Natsume laments. "I suppose all I can do now is support you like this."
[23:19] * Usagi-chan smiles. "Having someone to talk to helps, actually. You don't need to worry about this too much, I don't think - he hasn't threatened Earth or anything like that, so you should be safe enough." She clasps her hands together, a distant look in her crystal blue eyes. "We'll take care of him. Somehow."
[23:24] * Natsume smiles. "I have no doubt you will," she says. "I'm sure the senshi can defeat any opponent."
[23:25] * Usagi-chan smiles. "Thanks for the vote of confidence - it's nice to hear it."
[23:30] <Natsume> "Well, I'd better go, you really need the rest," Natsume says.
[23:31] <Usagi-chan> "Sorry about the practice session again," Usagi says with an apologetic smile. "I should have at least tried to get word to you that I couldn't make it."
[23:34] <Natsume> "I understand, really," Natsume once again assures her. "We'll make up for the lost time after you beat Zirae!"
[23:35] * Usagi-chan smiles at that. "You bet. Take care, Natsume," Usagi says as the other girl rises to leave.
[23:38] * Natsume bows before leaving her room.
-------
[08:09] <Anastasia> After Saturday's near disaster, Rei spends Sunday at the Shrine. Hotaru and Tellu take care of the main work, while Rei heads to the Sacred Flame.
[08:11] <Rei-chan> Trying to clear her mind and find inner focus, Rei kneels before the Sacred Flame, starting her ritual to ask for guidance from the Kami on what they can do about Zirae.
[08:13] <Anastasia> OOC - Roll 2d6+4
[08:13] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6+4 burning 20 EP
[08:13] * Musk-bot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6+4 burning 20 EP and gets 13."
[08:20] <Anastasia> The flame simmers in its place, yet no images volunteer yourself. Rei feels the slightest sense of something, but it's vague and meaningless to her.
[08:22] <Rei-chan> Taking a deep breath, Rei tries to relax. No doubt the tension she still carries from yesterday's 'battle' is making it hard to see anything. Remaining seated in place, she continues meditating, hoping for any clue that can help her to understand Zirae.
[08:22] <Anastasia> OOC - Roll 2d6+4
[08:22] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6+4 burning 20 EP
[08:22] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6+4 burning 20 EP and gets 11."
[08:23] <Anastasia> In the crimson, burning depths of the flame you can just see an image. A floating Crystal in the darkness, Usagi's power flowing through it to attack Metallia...
[08:24] <Rei-chan> 'The Crystal... what happened to it?' Rei focuses on the image, hoping it will be made clear.
[08:24] <Anastasia> OOC - Roll 2d6+6, Rei-chan.
[08:26] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6+6 burning 40 EP
[08:26] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6+6 burning 40 EP and gets 13."
[08:27] <Anastasia> As you watch, a line of pressure appears on the surface of the Crystal as Metallia is vanqiushed... something that you don't remember seeing, though your attention was obviously elsewhere at the time.
[08:27] * Rei-chan continues watching intently, waiting to see what happens next.
[08:28] <Anastasia> OOC - Roll 2d6+6, Rei-chan, again.
[08:28] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6+6 burning 20 EP
[08:28] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6+6 burning 20 EP and gets 15."
[08:28] <Rei-chan> do-over!
[08:28] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6+6 burning 20 EP
[08:28] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6+6 burning 20 EP and gets 10."
[08:30] <Anastasia> You see Serenity and all of the Senshi blur as the Crystal glows. In this white void, the lines grow across it like lightning... until the Crystal shatters into a thousand shards! Yet these shards carry with them light, washing over and repairing Tokyo, a single droplet of crystal going into each slain victim of the Dark Kingdom.
[08:31] * Rei-chan gasps. 'My God...' she thinks, stunned.
[08:31] <Anastasia> Then, as the city is restored, you get the sense of time shifting, the reality changing as the energy of the Crystal flows into Tokyo.
[08:33] <Rei-chan> Watching the vision play out, Rei pays particular attention to what happens to those tiny shards that went into the thousands of slain as time is shifted.
[08:33] <Anastasia> OOC - Roll 2d6+6, Rei-chan, again.
[08:33] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6+6
[08:33] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6+6 and gets 13."
[08:33] <Rei-chan> do-over!
[08:33] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6+6
[08:33] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6+6 and gets 11."
[08:34] <Anastasia> You feel your body straining to see the end of the vision, hard reality poking in. You see them... them... in the entire city?
[08:39] <Rei-chan> Amazed at what this means, Rei finally gives into her body's urges, falling out of the vision and back to reality.
[08:40] <Anastasia> Reality intrudes in harshly, a wave of nausea and exhaustion slamming into the miko's awareness. It feels like you just badly overstrained yourself, the Sacred Flame in front of you blurring in your eyes.
[08:41] <Rei-chan> "Ugh..." Rei grimaces, putting a hand over her stomach. Taking a moment to collect her breath, she stands on wobbly legs and bows to the flame, before proceeding back outside.
[08:41] <Anastasia> Going outside, you see Tellu helping a coughing Hotaru in the direction of the house, but she doubletakes when she sees you. "Rei, are you alright?" she calls quickly.
[08:43] <Rei-chan> "Just... really tired..." Rei admits breathlessly. "I haven't had to focus that much for a vision, well, ever..." Walking slowly, she approaches the other two girls. "Are you alright, Hotaru-chan?" she asks, noting her state.
[08:44] <Anastasia> Hotaru coughs again at that, her face pale with a flushed forehead. "I'm... not feeling good, Rei-chan," she whispers, leaning on the other girl. At that, "Come on, I guess you two might need to both go to bed."
[08:46] <Rei-chan> "What a pair we make," Rei sighs. "Lying down sounds good, though." Staggering towards the house, she apologises to Tellu, "Looks like you'll be on your own for a while, Tellu. Sorry. But I think I understand what happened to the Crystal, now..."
[08:47] <Anastasia> Tellu just shakes her head. "You both look terribly ill," she comments as you enter Rei's room. "Do you mind sharing the bed, Rei, or should I get Hotaru a futon?"
[08:49] <Rei-chan> "There's enough room on the bed," Rei answers shortly. "I think I'm going to sleep for a few hours."
[08:50] <Anastasia> She nods. "We'll talk when you wake up. Do you want me to call Usagi?"
[08:51] <Rei-chan> "If you would, thanks," Rei nods, opening her bedroom door. "She needs to know what I saw."
[08:52] <Anastasia> Tellu just nods again, as Hotaru coughs twice. "Two sisters, sick in bed together," Tellu smies slightly. "I'll bring you some soup as soon as I have time, Hotaru."
[08:56] <Rei-chan> "Heh," Rei manages a slight chuckle at that, laying herself out on top of the blankets, since she's feeling rather hot right now. "Just ask Phobos and Deimos to handle the soup. Gives them something to do besides playing up in the trees out of sight."
[08:59] <Anastasia> Setting Hotaru down next to Rei, "I will. I'll call your Dad to come and get you soon, Hotaru." At that, she nods and leaves. "Rest well, Rei."
[09:00] <Rei-chan> "Thanks," Rei nods tiredly, already closing her eyes.
[09:01] <Anastasia> Soon enough, despite a few coughs from Hotaru, Rei plummets into sleep.
[09:01] <Anastasia> ---
[09:01] <Anastasia> A few hours later...
[09:02] <Anastasia> A dreamless sleep of rest fades from Rei as she wakens. Sitting up on reflex, she finds Usagi at her bedside.
[09:03] <Rei-chan> Rubbing her eyes, "Usagi? How long have you been here?" she asks, yawning.
[09:04] * Usagi-chan gives the miko a gentle smile as her eyes flutter open. "Couple of hours now," she replies, setting down the manga she was reading. "Tellu said I should come over as soon as I could."
[09:06] <Rei-chan> Nodding, Rei goes on, "Sorry to keep you waiting, but I really needed to rest. That vision took a lot out of me."
[09:08] <Usagi-chan> "It's okay, I don't mind. Tellu just said you'd been meditating and that you needed to tell me what you saw, but not a lot more than that." Usagi sits back, looking at the raven-haired girl.
[09:09] <Rei-chan> "Yeah," Rei nods. "I saw what happened to the Silver Crystal, Usagi."
[09:10] * Usagi-chan's eyes go wide at that. "You did?"
[09:11] <Rei-chan> "Uh huh," Rei confirms. "At the instant Metallia died, the Crystal shattered. Only it didn't split into seven rainbow crystals this time..."
[09:11] <Usagi-chan> "What DID happen then?" Usagi asks, looking at Rei intently.
[09:14] <Rei-chan> "It shattered into thousands of tiny shards, spreading all over Tokyo and repairing the damage to the city, each one going into a person who had died that day..." 'Thanks to me.' "Then, the energy flowed out from those shards, shifting time and putting everything back the way it was before the battle."
[09:15] * Usagi-chan winces a bit at the overheard thought, but nods. "So it's scattered all over Tokyo by now," Usagi muses. "There's no way we'd be able to collect all the pieces, if there's that many of them - and if they're keeping other people alive, I wouldn't WANT to collect them."
[09:17] <Rei-chan> "Just before the vision ended, I saw Tokyo, with those fragments scattered all over... and the feeling of the Crystal's power being diffused throughout the entire city on some small level." She takes a deep breath, "I don't know how we can use this information, but that's what happened."
[09:18] <Usagi-chan> "At least we know more than we did before," Usagi says, sighing a bit. "But I don't know what to do about it any more than you do."
[09:21] <Rei-chan> "I'm almost surprised he hasn't found at least one shard in both the large assemblies of people we know he's investigated," Rei admits. "Unless they're simply so tiny and diffuse that his 'reveal' trick can't even pick them up."
[09:22] * Usagi-chan nods. "I can't help wondering how many other places he's visited that we HAVEN'T known about." She shakes her head. "Anyway, Viluy paid me a visit yesterday and told me what the Professor's managed to find from his readings of the battle yesterday."
[09:23] <Rei-chan> "Anything we can use?" Rei swivels her legs off the bed to sit facing Usagi, now.
[09:25] <Usagi-chan> "Apparently that shield of his seals in his power as much as it seals ours out, from the way she described it. She said there's got to be some kind of 'hole' or something in it though, otherwise he wouldn't be able to use his power outside the shield at all. But it's sort of like your vision - it's nice to know, but I have no idea what we're supposed to DO with it."
[09:26] <Rei-chan> "Yeah..." Rei frowns, "From what I sensed when his shield flickered yesterday, even if he didn't nullify our magic completely, he could probably stand against it with no real difficulty."
[09:27] * Usagi-chan draws her knees up to her chest, hugging them tightly. "And he recognized me as the Moon princess yesterday," she says in a small voice. "If it WAS the Queen of the Moon that took his crystal way back when, what does that mean for me?"
[09:29] <Rei-chan> "It's clear he doesn't like you, but that doesn't change anything," Rei sighs, patting the mattress next to her for Usagi to come over. "I think he'd be our enemy regardless of any personal grudges."
[09:30] * Usagi-chan gets up, seating herself on the bed next to the miko. "I'm just afraid, Rei-chan. I don't know what we can do, or even if there IS anything we can do."
[09:31] <Rei-chan> "I'd be lying if I said I was confident we could beat him right now," Rei admits, putting an arm around Usagi. "But I do think we'll figure something out. It might seem impossible now, but we'll find a way."
[09:32] * Usagi-chan leans against Rei's side. "I sure hope so," she says. "I just hate feeling so helpless."
[09:33] <Rei-chan> "You and me, both," the miko agrees.
[21:07] <Usagi-chan> -----
[21:10] <Usagi-chan> A morning spent with Rei behind her, Usagi decides to head out and take a walk, trying to get over the terrible strain of the day before. A meandering path through the early afternoon streets of Juuban finds her outside Takada's Garage, the name ringing a bell for the blonde. Curiosity overcomes her, and she steps inside, spotting a familiar sandy blonde head inside one of the bays.
[21:16] * Haruka is absorbed in a battle with a particularly stubborn bolt that refuses to release. She strains to get the damnable thing loose, but eventually gives it up as a lost cause for now as she turns disgustedly away, catching sight of Usagi. "Yo," she greets with a wave, wiping her brow with a rag. "Strange meeting you here of all places."
[21:17] * Usagi-chan smiles. "Well, I was just out for a walk this afternoon and the name on this place caught my eye - I think I'd heard you mention once that this was where you worked on your bike or something, I can't really remember. I just thought I'd take a peek inside and there you were." She grins at that.
[21:22] <Haruka> "And there I was," Haruka says, beaming a smile at Usagi while wiping her hands free of motor oil and general grime. "This just happens to be a shop that I go to for repairs and stuff. Since the owner knows me, I usually sit in here and just dabble on my bike at my leisure."
[21:23] <Usagi-chan> "That's cool that he lets you use this place," Usagi says with a smile. "Hope I'm not interrupting anything - I was just watching you for a minute."
[21:27] <Haruka> "Oh? Did you catch me from a good angle?" Haruka asks seriously before chuckling. "Though it's a good thing you didn't come in ten minutes earlier. I'm not sure I'd have wanted your innocent ears to catch the 'crude tunes' I was singing to that darned bolt," she finishes with a grumble.
[21:28] * Usagi-chan giggles. "Probably not - although I bet I've heard worse before anyway. I'm glad I bumped into you though - I wanted to talk to you about something."
[21:31] * Haruka raises an eyebrow at that before plopping down onto a stack of tires and motioning Usagi over to an adjacent spot. "You wanted to chat with me about business or leisure?" she asks studying Usagi.
[21:33] <Usagi-chan> "I'm not sure what you'd call it," Usagi says, a thoughtful expression on her face. "But if you don't have time right now, that's fine - it's nothing urgent, I won't keep you from your bike or anything."
[21:36] <Haruka> "I don't put friends, family, or lovely girls on hold for anything," Haruka informs Usagi with a sagely nod. "You meet two out of three so have a seat," she motions to the spot across from her once more.
[21:37] * Usagi-chan takes the indicated seat, a wry grin on her face. "Since when did I become family?" she says.
[21:40] * Haruka gives Usagi a stunned look before chuckling mirthfully. "Oh, ho! Comedian Usagi now, eh?"
[21:41] * Usagi-chan giggles. "I try," she says with a smile. "Although I'm probably not very good at it," she adds, making a long face.
[21:44] <Haruka> "Oh, don't worry about it, Usagi. We can't all be as perfect and gifted as yours truly." Haruka consoles. "Hold the mocking laughter until I'm at least out of earshot," she adds with a mock sniffle.
[21:46] <Usagi-chan> That gets another giggle out of the blonde. "I'll remember to keep it down," she says dryly. "Anyway, I was wanting to talk to you about Viluy, if you don't mind."
[21:47] * Haruka gets a strange look on her face for a brief moment before her usual grin slides into place. "Sure, Usagi. What of Viluy did you want to talk about?"
[21:49] * Usagi-chan pauses for a moment at the odd look on Haruka's face, trying to figure out how to frame her question. "She's... is she..." She shakes her head. "How are you two getting along?" is what she finally settles on.
[21:51] <Haruka> "We're not on unfriendly terms, if that's what you mean," Haruka replies while mentally tip-toeing around the subject.
[21:52] * Usagi-chan nods. "It's... she came to talk to me yesterday after the attack at Mugen, to tell me about some of the things the Professor found. And we talked a little bit about her becoming Sailor Neptune, too." She looks up at Haruka, a slightly worried expression on her face. "Did she mention anything to you about becoming more like... like Michiru was?"
[21:57] <Haruka> "Oh, THAT," she replies, with the emphasis on the last term. Haruka's smile fades slightly as Usagi stabs at the issue that she was trying to avoid. "Yeah, she did mention something or other about that," she returns vaguely after a momentary pause.
[21:58] <Usagi-chan> "Does it seem like that's what's happening to you?" Usagi asks a bit anxiously. "I don't really have any memories of Michiru to compare with, but I figure if anyone would remember things about her, it would be you."
[22:01] * Haruka lowers her gaze, her bangs slightly obscuring her features now. "It does seem that way, doesn't it?" she answers Usagi in slightly tired tones.
[22:02] * Usagi-chan deflates a bit at the confirmation. "She said as much herself, but I thought... I thought maybe she was just imagining it," Usagi replies. "But she's not, is she?"
[22:06] <Haruka> "I had been wondering myself if I was just seeing something I simply wanted to see," Haruka says softly, raising her head now to look at Usagi directly. "But there are far too many -subtle- nuances for this to be coincidence or a trick of my mind."

[20:08] <Anastasia> ------
[20:09] <Anastasia> After classes Monday, Haruka heads down to the Witches office with a rather mixed bag of feelings. How had Viluy managed to talk her into this, anyway? It's just so... girlish. As those thoughts cross her mind, she enters, finding Rei, Usagi and Viluy already there. With a smile, "Hello, Haruka." Viluy offers.
[20:09] <Rei-chan> "Hey, Haruka," Rei waves herself.
[20:10] * Usagi-chan gives the taller girl a wave. "Heya, Haruka," she says with a smile.
[20:10] * Haruka waves back weakly to all present.
[20:11] <Anastasia> "That's all of us," Viluy nods. "Ami had to cancel because of work she and the Professor had to do, so we can go now."
[20:12] <Haruka> "Lucky her..." Haruka mutters softly.
[20:12] <Usagi-chan> "Sounds good to me," Usagi says, nodding. "How far is this place, anyway?"
[20:13] <Anastasia> "A couple of miles, but we can catch a bus," Viluy smiles at Haruka, fondly. "Unless you want to give us a lift, Haruka?"
[20:13] <Rei-chan> "Cheer up, Haruka," Rei shakes her head, hearing the older girl's comment. "Nothing wrong with getting pampered and prettied up once in a while."
[20:15] <Haruka> "We'll take my car. I don't want to deal with the loonies on the bus on top of all this," Haruka tells Viluy before turning her attention to Rei. "Looking like this," she indicates her boys' school uniform, "does not match well with the 'pampered and prettied' look," she finishes.
[20:16] <Rei-chan> "Maybe it's time for a new look?" Rei asks innocently.
[20:16] * Usagi-chan giggles a bit at that. "Aww, come on, Haruka! You'll enjoy it - it's really nice to have someone else take care of everything for you!"
[20:17] <Anastasia> Viluy nods. "You'd look good in a nice dress suit," she says to Haruka.
[20:18] <Haruka> "Are you saying there's something wrong with my old look?" Haruka asks Rei with a frown. "And I like taking care of myself..." she whines, though she nods at Viluy's point.
[20:19] <Rei-chan> "Or just a dress," Rei chimes in, "You pull off the faux-bishonen look well, Haruka, no denying that. But why not express your feminine side a bit more?"
[20:19] <Haruka> "Anyways," Haruka drawls, cutting off Rei's oh-so-helpful suggestion. "Let's get this show on the road before my urge to flee grows stronger." Or an even worse suggestion pops up, she notes to herself frightfully...
[20:20] * Usagi-chan grins at that. "Come on, Haruka - it won't be so bad, I promise! We won't even try to get you into a skirt, okay?" the blonde giggles.
[20:21] * Haruka is unnerved by the rabbit's giggle and shows it by shivering slightly.
[20:23] <Anastasia> Soon enough from that, you all get into Haruka's car and are driven, Viluy giving directions. Shortly, you find yourself parking at a nice, slightly out of the way beauty parlor, 'Make Yourself'. Glass windows show a nice spread-out area inside, with some hair steamer setups and a small sitting lobby, with more promised inside.
[20:24] * Usagi-chan smiles. "Looks like a really nice place, Viluy. How'd you find it?"
[20:25] <Anastasia> "My aunt took me here awhile back," she replies as you head inside. "I didn't much care for it at the time, and I said some things afterwards..." she frowns, recalling a small segment of her Deathbuster days. "Anyway, it's a nice place in here," she concludes, taking composed, careful steps.
[20:26] <Rei-chan> "Looks it," Rei nods, following just behind Viluy.
[20:27] * Usagi-chan nods in agreement, surveying the setup as she follows Rei.
[20:27] <Haruka> "Funny," Haruka comments while stepping out of the car and following the rest. "I thought there'd be more thunder, lightning, and ominous music and the like..."
[20:27] <Usagi-chan> "It's a beauty parlor, not a haunted house!" Usagi retorts.
[20:28] <Haruka> "They're not the same thing?"
[20:28] * Usagi-chan rolls her eyes. "Not even close."
[20:28] <Anastasia> "No, Haruka," Viluy says, turning back a moment near the door. "You'll come out of here looking like a real woman and not a tomboy." she smiles a bit at that, baiting Haruka.
[20:29] * Rei-chan matches Viluy's smile. "The boys will be all over you. And maybe a few girls if you're lucky."
[20:29] * Haruka simply groans in reply.
[20:30] <Anastasia> Smiling, Viluy leads you inside. A nicely dressed hair stylist comes right up to Viluy at that. "Oh, Viluy dear! You brought some friends, didn't you?"
[20:33] <Anastasia> She nods. "This is Usagi, Rei and Haruka," she introduces you nicely. The woman smiles nicely at that. "Welcome to the Make Yourself salon, ladies." she says, though raising an eyebrow at Haruka. "Since you're here on that offer, I assume, why don't we start with a simple hair steaming and work from there, alright?"
[20:33] * Usagi-chan smiles. "Sounds great!"
[20:34] <Rei-chan> "Sure," Rei nods, letting the professional decide what works best.
[20:36] <Anastasia> Noting Haruka again. "Dear... why don't we get you in first," she decides.
[20:36] <Haruka> "Lovely..." Haruka replies with a strained smile.
[20:38] <Anastasia> Taking your arm and going past Viluy, "You have nice hair, dear. You should take better care of it," is heard as Haruka is whisked into a machine, a paper gown placed over her clothes as a hanging metal device is put over her head. "It would look years better with a bit of shine."
[20:38] * Usagi-chan can't help but grin a bit at Haruka's discomfiture.
[20:38] <Rei-chan> "Do you do hair extensions?" Rei asks, loud enough for Haruka to hear.
[20:38] <Anastasia> Viluy nods, smiling... and promptly having to put a hand over her mouth to prevent laughing.
[20:39] * Usagi-chan DOES giggle at that.
[20:40] <Anastasia> As it comes and starts, Haruka feels a nice, warm sensation as steam is unleashed on her hair. Rather relaxing, you have to admit, and there are a few magazines in a side pocket of the chair part. All of them women's magazines, though.
[20:40] <Haruka> "I haven't had to deal with long hair in quite some time, thanks," she returns, shooting Rei in her place with a look that promises pain.
[20:41] <Rei-chan> "You mean you used to have long hair?" Rei perks right up. "I want to see your photo album some time, then!"
[20:41] <Usagi-chan> "Me too!" Usagi chimes in.
[20:41] <Anastasia> Coming over and sitting down, Viluy nods to Haruka. "Really? How long was it - I bet it looked good on you."
[20:42] <Anastasia> "You can seat yourself, girls," the attentdant calls as she fiddles with the settings for Haruka's, causing a warmer current to hit her hair and head.
[20:43] <Haruka> "Too long," Haruka replies to Viluy's question. "I think it trailed down near my hip, I think..."
[20:43] * Rei-chan promptly does take a seat next to Haruka. "Wow, that's even longer than mine." She eyes the tall girl speculatively, "How was it styled?"
[20:44] <Anastasia> "Damn," Viluy swears, a rather unladylike term. "Seriously?" she asks, leaning forward with interest and placing her arms on her knees, a rather unrefined pose.
[20:45] <Haruka> "Is 'no-style' a style?" she says to Rei with a smirk.
[20:46] <Usagi-chan> "Oh come on, you HAVE to have put it up SOMEHOW," Usagi probes. "Did you use a hairband or a bow or anything?"
[20:47] <Rei-chan> "Like mine?" Rei blinks. She generally doesn't style her hair, after all. Just brushes it to be nice and shiny as it trails down her back... with hair so nice, you really don't have to do anything fancy with it.
[20:48] <Haruka> "Hmm... Well, I think I did at least tie it off with a string at times. Don't know if that counts," she finishes with a shrug, trying not to move her head around too much.
[20:49] <Anastasia> Going over and setting up Rei and the others in their seats, "I don't know, dear. I think a long pageboy cut would do wonders on you."
[20:54] <Haruka> "I rather like my hair the way it is, personally," Haruka admits in all honesty. "But if you feel like tinkering around, go for it. As long as it's nothing too permanent."
[20:55] <Anastasia> The attendant nods. "I will. Call me Sakura, Haruka."
[20:55] <Usagi-chan> "You'd look good with a new hairstyle," Usagi says as she settles in under the steamer. "You could still keep it short and do a lot of fun things with it."
[20:59] <Anastasia> Saruka nods again. "Maybe add some nice curls to it."
[20:59] * Usagi-chan giggles at the mental image of Haruka with a perm.
[21:00] <Haruka> "Eh," Haruka frowns slightly at the notion of curls. "My hair is already slightly wavy as it is so I'd like not to go beyond this."
[21:01] <Rei-chan> "Your hair is nice as it is," Rei concedes.
[21:01] <Anastasia> Nodding, "Well, think it over. I'll be back when the steaming finishes and we'll get to your nails."
[21:03] <Haruka> "The wise voice of reason," Haruka says, addressing Rei with a smirk.
[21:03] <Usagi-chan> "I wonder how I'd look with a different hairstyle..." Usagi muses half to herself.
[21:03] <Anastasia> "Maybe this will help your hair look good enough so you don't need to change it, Haruka," Viluy offers, relaxing under the steamy warmth.
[21:04] * Rei-chan nods. "It's nice, but being treated like this will make it better no matter how you style it."
[21:07] <Anastasia> About ten minutes pass, the treatment having a certain relaxing effect. Also, there is a gentle smell like jasmine and flowers wafting in, further causing sensory enjoyment. When Sakura comes back, she has four other attendants with her, none of note. "We'll start the manicures right here, ladies. Let your attendant know what color nail polish you want afterwards."
[21:08] * Rei-chan nods and smiles at her attendant, presenting her nails.
[21:08] * Usagi-chan smiles at the manicurist. "I think just a light pink will work for me, thanks."
[21:09] <Anastasia> One of them comes to Rei, inspecting her hands with his own. "Girl, you need to take better care of your cuticles," he nods, short brown hair bobbing. "How about a nice cherry polish afterwards, hm?"
[21:09] <Anastasia> Usagi's nods, Viluy instructing hers for a simple, understated green.
[21:09] <Anastasia> Haruka's comes up, a young, fresh from high school girl. "Haruka, right," she smiles, barely older than you. "What color do you want?"
[21:09] <Rei-chan> "Working at the Shrine isn't very kind to my hands, I admit," Rei concedes. "Cherry sounds good, though."
[21:12] * Haruka returns the smile a bit awkwardly as she's really out of her elements here. "I'll leave it to you. I don't know much about all this 'stuff'," Haruka indicates the shop in general. "Something on the clear side, perhaps? I don't want it to be too showy, I guess."
[21:12] <Anastasia> "I'll just match your hair, then," she nods, getting to work. Between the hair steaming and the nail work, you can't help but feel pampered as it goes on, polish following after a few minutes of good nail work.
[21:15] <Anastasia> On coming back again and seeing the tail end of the nail work, Saruka begins to end the steam work. "We'll do a nice hot soak with fragrance and minerals next, girls. You'll love our cherry blossom fragrance, I promise."
[21:15] <Rei-chan> "I'm sure we will," Rei enthuses.
[21:15] <Usagi-chan> "Mmm, sounds really nice," Usagi says with a smile.
[21:16] <Anastasia> "It's really nice," Viluy says absently, almost lost in her own feelings right now. "You look better already, Haruka."
[21:20] <Haruka> "Um... thanks," Haruka replies, giving Viluy a look as well.
[21:20] <Anastasia> TThe girl's hair is just coming out, healthy and shiny from the steam, her nails glistening with now dry nail polish. With a small smile to you that stirs a certain memory, "I hope I do as well, Haruka." she says, standing primly.
[21:24] <Anastasia> "You do, Haruka," Sakura adds as well, nodding. "If you come this way, I'll lead you to the locker room, ladies."
[21:24] * Rei-chan stands up, ready to follow.
[21:24] * Usagi-chan climbs out of her chair after a moment, her long hair unbound from its odangos and wrapped around her head.
[21:25] * Haruka nods dumbly in response to Viluy, lacking any real words to express her thoughts as she follows Sakura. She does try to persue that memory fragment, however...
[21:25] <Anastasia> OOC - Haruka, Mind check at -2.
[21:26] <Haruka> roll 2d6-2
[21:26] * Hatbot --> "Haruka rolls 2d6-2 and gets 10."
[21:27] <Anastasia> Whatever it is, it escapes your mind. The only thing you recall is that damn TV jingle for Hiro's Noodle Stop, the one with the catchy bells in the background.
[21:27] <Anastasia> Heading past this area, you soon come to a small locker room. "You needn't worry about locks, girls," Saruka adds, going to one of the lockers. Viluy nods as well. "It's all watched just in case."
[21:29] * Usagi-chan nods, undressing herself carefully. All her valuable items are in her subspace pocket anyway, but it WOULD be a pain to lose her clothes. She folds them up and places them in one of the lockers, waiting to find out where to go next.
[21:30] <Anastasia> Viluy follows suit, Sakura as well. "I'll be going in with you," she smiles. "One of the perks of this job is that you never have to bathe out of work - you get to take a few baths a day in the guided tour."
[21:30] * Haruka follows everyone's example, though she shakes her head periodically trying to dislodge the song from her head as if it was water stuck in her ear.
[21:30] * Rei-chan also removes her clothes with the others, glad at least that Viluy doesn't feel awkward bathing with three lesbians...
[21:31] <Usagi-chan> "So what's a mineral soak like? I've never had one before," Usagi asks.
[21:32] <Anastasia> Leading you into a rather spacious bath room - with only one central, big tub that smells pleasantly like cherry blossoms - "It's a special heated pool with minerals that make your skin glow and a special house-blended scent so you smell good all day."
[21:32] <Anastasia> Sakura nods. "It does wonders for blemishes, and it's even better than a normal warm bath."
[21:32] * Usagi-chan sniffs. "It sure does smell good," Usagi agrees, looking at the steaming tub.
[21:33] <Rei-chan> "It does smell nice," Rei agrees, going to scrub herself off before bathing.
[21:34] <Anastasia> "It's wonderful - saves money on perfume, too," Sakura smiles, going through some light scrubbing herself, more out of having something to do than needing it right now.
[21:34] * Usagi-chan follows Rei's example, making sure to clean herself thoroughly before climbing into the fragrant bath.
[21:36] <Rei-chan> Finished most of cleaning herself, Rei turns to Usagi and starts to wash her back before they bathe. "You do me next?" she asks.
[21:36] <Usagi-chan> "Sure," Usagi agrees, enjoying the attention from Rei.
[21:37] <Anastasia> Viluy does her abolutions, soon in the tub herself. "Haruka, come on," she prods the other girl.
[21:38] <Rei-chan> Finished cleansing herself thanks to Usagi, Rei stands up and goes over to the tub, dipping a foot in and sighing before immersing herself up to her neck.
[21:40] * Haruka scrubs down rather awkwardly, not used to bathing in front of others. "I'll be there in a sec, Viluy," she replies, looking down at the portion of the scar visible to her without the aid of a mirror that ran along her side. She knows with memory alone that the rest snakes a trail that spans across her back and ends at her opposite shoulder.
[21:41] * Usagi-chan follows suit quickly, slipping into the water just a few moments after Rei. "Mmm, this is really nice," she says, closing her eyes as she relaxes in the scented water. "I'm just afraid I'm going to fall asleep."
[21:42] <Anastasia> "That's happened to me a few times," Sakura smiles. "It's why we bathe in groups here, for that and since it's a great place to gossip about your day."
[21:44] <Anastasia> Viluy eyes Haruka, glancing at her scar visibly but not saying anything right now. Instead, she just keeps an eye on her. "Isn't this nice, everyone? This is the best way to decompress after a day at Mugen, isn't it?"
[21:45] * Rei-chan nods. "Normally after school it's straight to work at the Shrine... it's nice to take a load off, once in a while."
[21:45] * Haruka finally slips into the water, picking a spot where available.
[21:46] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah," Usagi agrees. "My usual after school work's kind of been on hold for a while, but it's still nice to just take a day to relax."
[21:46] * Rei-chan glances over at Haruka, her eyes widening at the scar. But she keeps quiet out of respect for the older girl.
[21:47] <Anastasia> "We can soak as long as you ladies like," Sakura says, leaning into the pool. "How about we do some facials next when we dry out, hm?"
[21:47] <Rei-chan> "Sounds good to me," Rei smiles brightly. 'I'm not paying for it, after all.'
[21:49] <Anastasia> Viluy nods. "They have a nice Pearl Cream facial treatment," she notes. "Not that any of us have acne or those problems, but it's supposed to help that if you're not so lucky."
[21:49] * Usagi-chan giggles a bit at Rei, leaning against the side of the tub with her eyes closed.
[21:50] <Rei-chan> "Boy, you've really become an expert on all of this, Viluy," Rei notes, a bit surprised.
[21:51] <Anastasia> The girl turns her eye, glancing at Sakura thoughtfully. "Ever since I started hanging out with that new crowd, I've gained an interest in this sort of thing."
[21:52] * Usagi-chan s look goes a bit more solemn at that, remembering Viluy's words from Saturday evening.
[21:54] <Rei-chan> "Really?" Rei leans forward a bit. "Trying to impress someone?" she asks, a slightly teasing smile on her lips.
[21:54] <Anastasia> Smiling carefully, "I might be," she says, not tipping her hand. "Maybe I am."
[21:54] * Haruka opens a curious eye to watch the response to that.
[21:55] * Usagi-chan cracks an eye open to look at Haruka at that response.
[21:55] <Rei-chan> "Oh?" Rei's smile becomes more pronounced. "Anyone we know?"
[21:56] <Usagi-chan> 'Back off a little, Rei-chan,' Usagi sends to the miko. 'Things are a little... messed up with Viluy and Haruka right now.'
[21:57] <Anastasia> Smiling even more, "Maybe." is all she offers. "I'm interested in a friend and in someone else for something more..." a smile, "Intimate." Debating a moment, "It's like I want to spend a lot of time with Haruka now that I joined this group, like a best friend." Her smile goes a bit strange there, some emotions playing across her face.
[21:57] * Rei-chan glances at Usagi, then back at Viluy, then at Haruka, then at Viluy once more. "Huh?" she seems rather lost.
[21:58] <Anastasia> Glancing around and sensing a very suddenly tense undercurrent, "Why don't I get out ahead of you, and set up the next section," Sakura says suddenly, rising.
[21:59] * Haruka doesn't settle on a single expression initially - drifting from sad to happy to something unreadable in a short period of time, though she manages to give Viluy a happy smile in the end.
[21:59] * Usagi-chan glances between Haruka and Viluy before elaborating further. 'It looks like there are parts of Michiru's personality that are creeping into Viluy's life,' the blonde sends. 'She's... not upset about it, but we had a talk about it on Saturday night.'
[22:00] * Rei-chan swallows. 'My God...' "Viluy..." she looks unsure of herself, not really knowing how to politely talk about this, especially with Haruka here.
[22:01] <Anastasia> Exiting out, Sakura leaves the scene. Turning to Haruka and blowing off Rei. "I... wanted to have a nice chat about this, Haruka," she says simply, cutting to the chase. "So I figured, why not at our most basic and relaxed, right?"
[22:01] <Usagi-chan> 'Just... leave it be for now, Rei-chan,' Usagi sends quickly. 'I'm definitely going to keep an eye on what's going on, but for now Viluy seems to be happy with it. Let her and Haruka settle this between them, all right?'
[22:02] * Rei-chan leans back and looks between the two, now feeling extremely awkward. 'If she planned this for Haruka then why did she invite us?'
[22:03] <Usagi-chan> 'I didn't know she HAD this planned for Haruka!' Usagi sends back. 'She just asked me if I wanted to come, I didn't know she was going to do anything in particular.'
[22:04] <Haruka> "A nice chat about what?" Haruka ventures forth, though really she can already connect the logical dots, but she wants to hear the actual answer anyway.
[22:05] <Anastasia> "About Michiru and myself," she says, glancing at Usagi and Rei. "I... also wanted our friends with us for this. Usagi's our Queen and Rei... I trust her. You and Michiru, you were together in the past?"
[22:06] * Usagi-chan has her eyes fully open now, watching Viluy.
[22:06] * Rei-chan smiles a bit at Viluy's words, although she still feels rather out of place.
[22:06] * Haruka simply nods sadly at that.
[22:08] <Anastasia> "I've been getting Michiru's feelings, habits... all of it." Viluy says simply. "She loved you, Haruka. I'm... feeling some of that, too," Viluy keeps her eyes dead on you, unmoving. "I care about you a great deal... but I'm also unable to understand and accept the main part of them."
[22:08] * Rei-chan bites her lip, and keeps quiet, suspecting that any commentary here would be unhelpful.
[22:09] * Usagi-chan remains silent as well - whatever this is, it's really an issue between Haruka and Viluy.
[22:09] * Haruka stiffens up slightly despite being enveloped in the warm, comforting waters as she waits for Viluy to continue.
[22:11] <Anastasia> "I'm just not interested in women that way, Haruka... even though I think I love you," she says quietly. "I... I want to be with you like a best friend, but I can't bring myself to be into you deeper than that." Looking away now, her slightly watery eyes stare at the pool below.
[22:13] * Usagi-chan looks a bit sad at that - this can't be easy for Haruka to hear.
[22:15] * Haruka looks down into the water slightly at that. She half-expected something like this to occur, but it was no less a kick to the stomach. "And so you chose to drag me out here to tell me this in front of Usagi and Rei?" Haruka says in a soft empty voice.
[22:16] * Rei-chan winces a bit. 'I sure didn't expect this...' Still, she feels too damn awkward to speak up.
[22:16] <Usagi-chan> 'Neither did I,' Usagi replies, looking like she'd rather be anywhere else but here.
[22:16] <Anastasia> She nods. "I... don't want you to run away. I want you to be with your friends, Haruka." Coming over and standing, she heads for the other girl. "I... if your friends are here, we can be here for each other for this, and not fighting each other."
[22:19] <Anastasia> Standing in front of her and going into a kneel. "Let's... just..." she murmurs, a tear working it's way down her cheek.
[22:19] * Usagi-chan closes her eyes, her heart going out to Haruka.
[22:22] * Haruka retreats away from Viluy slightly, giving her an incredulous look. This was definitely NOT what she was expecting when the day began. Haruka burned with the need to run screaming for the hills.
[22:25] <Anastasia> Raising a bit to step forward again, "Don't, Haruka," she whispers. "Just... let me hug you, alright, like sisters do? Sisters who love each other dearly?"
[22:31] * Haruka shakes her head slowly in disbelief inching farther and farther away from Viluy as her mind becomes a maelstrom of random emotions. Being held in her arms was something she wanted, maybe needed, but she just couldn't accept it. "I can't... can't..." she babbles as tears run freely from the corner of her eyes.
[22:32] <Anastasia> Coming forward, Viluy just wraps you in her arms before you can run away. "You can... we'll be there for each other, right," she sniffles. "As friends, Haruka."
[22:37] * Haruka stiffens at the instance of contact, pulling away quickly as if burned. "It would've been easier if you just hated me or felt nothing at all..." she whispers hoarsely, turning away from the group.
[22:38] <Anastasia> She flinches away at that, looking at your back. "I wish I could," she says quietly, but with an inner longing there. "I want to love you, dammit! Everything I'm feeling is telling me that I should, but I can't!" Starting to lose her composure to Haruka's words, tears go straight down her face.
[22:38] * Usagi-chan just watches, one hand covering her mouth - this has to be incredibly difficult for the tall blonde to deal with.
[22:42] * Haruka feels as if she's being strangled as she has to fight for every breath of air. There's a raging fire in her mind in stark contrast to the lump of ice in her chest. It was all too much, all WAY too much. "Sorry," she manages to say softly before running off as fast as her legs will allow, heading for the locker to grab her keys to escape.
[22:44] <Anastasia> Watching her leave, Viluy blinks back a set of tears before sinking down on her hands and knees, starting to sob in a tense emotional outpouring.
[22:45] * Usagi-chan moves over in the water, placing an arm around Viluy's shoulders in silent comfort.
[09:55] <Anastasia> ---
[09:58] <Anastasia> The past few days have had Ami, Eudial and Professor Tomoe working over the readings you got from the Zirae battle at Mugen. Viluy also shows up a few times, though she seems a bit unfocused - to the point where Professor Tomoe quietly sends her home today. It's not nasty or anything, though once she leaves, he sighs audibly.
[09:59] <Anastasia> Eudial frowns herself a bit, "Professor, is something wrong with Viluy?" she asks outright.
[10:00] * Ami-chan nods in agreement with Eudial, having noticed the dropoff herself.
[10:03] <Anastasia> "Viluy's been finding other interests. We discussed this yesterday," he says, a bit short in tone. Taking off his glasses to rub his forehead, "We'll discuss it after we finish for the day, if you like."
[10:04] * Ami-chan nods, letting the matter slide, as the work they're doing seems more pressing, at the moment. "That's fine."
[10:05] <Anastasia> "Yes, Professor," Eudial just nods as well, getting back to work. Over the past few days, you've been turning over the readings from Zirae. Nothing of real help has been found yet, though Professor Tomoe has mainly been working on the energy readings from that one second while you girls deal with the rest.
[10:06] <Anastasia> OOC - Mind check at +1, Ami.
[10:07] <Ami-chan> roll 2d6+1
[10:07] * Musk-bot --> "Ami-chan rolls 2d6+1 and gets 8."
[10:09] <Anastasia> Poring over the readings, you notice something when you check the spectral analysis again - a few minor energy bursts just before Usagi's attack that cracked open Zirae for a moment.
[10:10] * Ami-chan blinks, and goes over them carefully, noting the timestamp as she tries to identify the energy bursts.
[10:12] <Anastasia> OOC - Mind check at +2, Ami.
[10:12] <Ami-chan> roll 2d6+2
[10:12] * Musk-bot --> "Ami-chan rolls 2d6+2 and gets 7."
[10:13] <Anastasia> They are tiny, subatomic-level bits of energy, familiar to you. They are associated with dimensional anomalies.
[10:18] * Ami-chan blinks, double checking her readings, then beginning to smile a little. "Maybe..." She murmurs to herself, poring over the event once more, to see if she can confirm if the release was an use of his own power, or something else.
[10:19] <Anastasia> OOC - Mind check at +3, Ami.
[10:19] <Ami-chan> roll 2d6+3
[10:19] * Musk-bot --> "Ami-chan rolls 2d6+3 and gets 8."
[10:20] <Anastasia> It's not entirely clear - the seeming 'dead reality' zone he projects is making it guesswork in this regard. But... those are most obviously dimensionally aligned particles - and by averages, there were far more there than, say, your gate to Shadow Tokyo would have made.
[10:25] * Ami-chan thinks hard for a moment, then nods to herself, backtracking to look at the other attacks, comparing them to Usagi's, and looking for the telltale particles, trying to identify whether the peculiar effect was a damage anomaly, or a by-product of the use of his power.
[10:25] <Anastasia> OOC - Mind check at +4, Ami.
[10:26] <Ami-chan> roll 2d6 burning 20 EP
[10:26] * Musk-bot --> "Ami-chan rolls 2d6 burning 20 EP and gets 6."
[10:27] <Anastasia> Looking over them again, you can indeed detect these tiny bursts at each of his actions. Beyond that, though, you aren't sure. As you ponder that, Professor Tomoe stands, stretching. "I think that's enough for today, girls. Did either of you make any progress of note?"
[10:28] <Ami-chan> "I think I have something interesting." Ami ventures, looking down on her readings.
[10:54] <Anastasia> "Really," Eudial asks, coming over with Professor Tomoe following. "Find something in that, Ami?"
[10:58] <Ami-chan> "I think so." she nods, showing them her data, and pointing to the relevant parts. "Before each action on his part, there's a fairly large burst of the dimensionally aligned particles, similar to the ones found while working on the gate to Shadow Tokyo." she points out.
[11:01] <Anastasia> Peering at the readings, he nods. "Good catch, Ami," he says, shaking his head. "I should've seen these myself - they point to a massive dimensional alteration of sorts."
[11:03] * Ami-chan nods. "I would surmise that's what happened to our attacks." She murmured. "He can just... put them somewhere else if they get too close."
[11:06] <Anastasia> "I'm not entirely sure," he murmurs. "That's one possibility, but if he's actually altering reality or creating another dimension around himself, those could also result."
[11:08] * Ami-chan nods. "True... The higher amounts of particles would seem to suggest that." she agreed.
[11:09] <Anastasia> Eudial hmms thoughtfully. "So he's doing something with reality or another dimension? If those readings we got are correct, he'd certainly have enough energy to be able to himself."
[11:11] <Ami-chan> Ami nodded, examining the readouts again as she thought. "The question is... how can we use this against him? That much power..."
[11:17] <Anastasia> Tomoe shakes his head. "I've still not come up with any working hypotheses," he admits. "Come... let's at least discuss this over some tea and dinner," he says, concedeing that this evening is about to get longer.
[11:19] * Ami-chan nods, looking thoughtful as she retrieves her bag. "Alright." she agrees, smiling.
[11:22] <Anastasia> Eudial shakes her head. "I'll have to bow out - My mom wants me to help her finish something and take me out to dinner," she notes.
[11:25] <Anastasia> "Just myself and Ami, then" he smiles a bit. Leading her onward and out of the laboratory, "Before we continue about the research..." his tone drops a bit, more serious. "You were asking about Viluy?"
[11:25] * Ami-chan nods. "She's seemed rather strange, lately." Ami admits. "Like she'd rather be anywhere else..."
[11:30] <Anastasia> "Indeed. Ami..." he says, taking a moment to stop in front of the elevator, hitting the summon button. "From what she said, she's been having some spillover from the previous Sailor Neptune. She's dealing with that."
[11:32] <Ami-chan> "Spillover?" Ami frowned. "That sounds ominous... is she all right? What does that mean?"
[11:34] <Anastasia> He nods solemnly. "Michiru's tastes, hobbies, patterns of thought and acting... all of those are bleeding over and mixing, and in some cases perhaps more like replacing, Viluy's own. Have you noticed how she's been looking radiant lately? She's been going to a beauty spa now, and taking care of herself instead of sitting in front of a computer all day."
[11:36] <Anastasia> As he speaks, he keeps his voice carefully neutral, as the two of you enter into the elevator. "I don't object to her finding new hobbies by any means, but she seems to be losing interests in her science work right now."
[11:37] * Ami-chan looks disturbed at that revelation. "That... that's awful." She murmurs, imagining it happening to her. The other Sailor Senshi were some of her dearest friends, but there's no way she'd want to be them. "How is she taking it?" Ami asks softly. "She doesn't seem... unhappy, exactly..."
[11:39] <Anastasia> He stares ahead at that. "She's not unhappy at all. I think she's made her peace with it and is letting what happens naturally to happen. I don't think she'll change into a second Michiru, but I don't know if we'll end up with a Michiru-modified Viluy or a Viluy-modified Michiru."
[11:41] <Ami-chan> "It hasn't affected the quality of her work?" Ami queiries, looking up at Professor Tomoe. "Just her interest in it?"
[11:42] <Anastasia> He nods. "That's correct. Her work, when she spends the proper time on it, is still outstanding."
[11:42] <Anastasia> Glancing down at you, you see that his expression is carefully neutral right now, eyes slightly guarded with the tinest bits of shadow.
[11:43] * Ami-chan nods, slowly. "I suppose it's nothing we can legitimately worry about then." She decides. "It's disappointing, but if she's made her peace with it, and it's not hurting her..."
[11:44] <Anastasia> Interrupted a moment by the ping of the door opening to the fifth floor, he waits a moment before replying. "Yes. It's not... I merely wish she would perhaps fight it a little more."
[11:47] <Ami-chan> "Does it worry you?" Ami asks gently. "Has she done, or said anything that bothers you?"
[11:49] <Anastasia> He turns to you as you walk back to his office. His face is starting to spurt shadows of covering as he frowns. "I... no, not really. I just wish her timing was different. She's far better with computers than any of the rest of us, and she'd be useful." At that, he takes a deep, sighing breath, the shadows winking away.
[11:52] <Ami-chan> Ami raises an eyebrow. "Professor... Viluy has worked closely with you for a long time. I can see you're concerned about her..." She ventures, uncertain whether probing is the correct thing to do, here.
[11:53] <Anastasia> He nods mutely, opening the door to his office. "We have, moreso if you consider the time under Germatou."
[11:57] * Ami-chan pauses, slipping into the office and pausing inside, biting her lip. "I see..." she murmurs, then nods slowly, a bit concerned by the morose timbre to his words. "Is that at the root of your concern? I'm sorry... please, stop me if I'm asking too many questions..."
[12:00] <Anastasia> He stops a moment, before heading to his chair. "No," he says quietly, "You're right. I'm worried about her - Germatou did something of the same thing to the other Witches, warping them over time." Tomoe sits heavily in his seat, looking at you firmly. "Now, I'm not comparing this directly to Germatou. I don't believe for a moment that there is anything sinister about this. But... I am concerned."
[12:02] * Ami-chan sits gracefully down in the seat opposite him, across the desk. "Because we can't be sure if her acceptance is genuine?" Ami guesses.
[12:18] <Anastasia> "Perhaps," he ventures. "Even assuming it is... just, damn." Tomoe sighs again, a bit of feeling in that curse.
[12:20] * Ami-chan smiles sadly. "Even if it's benevolent, it's difficult to watch for you, isn't it?" She asks softly.
[12:22] <Anastasia> He just nods, eyes elsewhere from your own. "It's like watching the past years over again."
[12:25] <Ami-chan> "Except for one difference." Ami says quietly. "You don't have to only watch. It may not be something we can stop, but we can make sure Viluy gets through it, happy, and with her friends still supporting her..." she says wishing she had Usagi's gift for comforting people.
[12:29] <Anastasia> Still studying Ami's lower portions in defence to meeting her eyes. "Yes. She's not becoming a soulless monster for Pharaoh 90, at least..."
[12:33] * Ami-chan nods, shifting a bit embarrassedly at the way her gaze is missed. "She may be moving away from us a little as she acclimatizes to her... situation, but it does happen, even in ordinary people's lives."
[12:35] <Anastasia> He nods, eyes wandering upward, slowly to your face. "That's true," he concedes.
[12:43] <Ami-chan> Ami smiles a little, concealing a bit of nervousness at the Professor's strange behavior. "We just have to make sure our oun misgivings don't push her away..." She pauses, blushing a bit. "I wish Usagi was here... she's much better and finding ways to put these things..."
[12:44] <Anastasia> He finally smiles slightly. "She is, Ami. I'm not so good at these things myself..." surprisingly, that brings out a real smile, chasing away his gloom.
[12:49] * Ami-chan relaxes a little and smiles back. "I can empathize..." she admits.
[12:50] <Anastasia> Leaning back in a chair a bit, "It's easy to lose yourself in a book or in your work, but give yourself something with another person and you just fall apart," he says, sympathy in his voice. "Sometimes, I wish I could just spend a few months locked in my lab and away from all the headaches Mugen can bring."
[12:53] * Ami-chan giggles nevously. "I've tried that... somehow, Usagi ends up dragging me out for fresh air..." she shakes her head. "I'm still not very good with people, but my friends... I'd drop everything for them... and strangely, it's a good feeling..."
[12:57] <Anastasia> Smiling back at you. "It is... it's wonderful to have friends like this... and family," his smile slips a bit at that second part, a certain memory coming to mind.
[13:01] * Ami-chan nods, smiling gently as she sees the slip, and guessing what's on his mind. "It is." She says softly. "Sometimes, though, it hurts that my father is gone. I don't see him that often... and no one can really replace him. But... with my friends to go to, it doesn't hurt quite so much."
[13:04] <Anastasia> Sharing that, "When I see Rei and Hotaru and the rest of them laughing together, I can almost forget about how much she must miss Kimiko. And even..." he sighs, closing his eyes, "How much I miss her."
[13:09] * Ami-chan nods, her heart going out to him, not willing to even dwell on eventually losing someone she married. "It must be hard..." she replies softly. "But you've done well to bring her so far..." she adds, not really knowing what to say to such a personal revelation.
[13:10] <Anastasia> He nods. "And I'll keep going on it, for her sake. Just... Hotaru deserves to have a mother," he says quietly, studying the ceiling as he speaks. "Someone to make her breakfast and check over her schoolwork, to have snacks ready for her when she gets home, to sing her stories, to help her with the aspects of being a girl, all of that."
[13:14] * Ami-chan nods, slowly, thinking briefly of her own mother. "True... have you been thinking of..." She trails off, feeling hampered by her inexperience in discussing these things.
[13:15] <Anastasia> Tomoe color slightly. "Of getting remarried, you mean?"
[13:16] <Ami-chan> "Uhm. Yes." Ami nods. "I... apologize for putting it so baldly..."
[13:20] <Anastasia> "No, better than dancing around it," he brushes it aside. "I've... considered it," he admits. "Germatou... rather encouraged Kaolinite to become intrested in my- itself. He just enjoyed playing with her feelings, though," he snorts. "Beyond that... The only women I really deal with are you girls. Half of you are already taken with each other, and that leaves... really, you, Viluy and Eudial." He coughs meaningfully at that, blushing. "Ah... well..."
[13:22] * Ami-chan blushes darkly, pausing as she tries to work out what to say to -this- development, but nothing seems to spring to mind. "..."
[13:23] <Anastasia> "All of you are... ah, so much younger than me," he goes on, pointely not looking at you. "Eudial's a nice girl and all, but she's not really my type."
[13:28] * Ami-chan nods, staring at the floor, and trying to will her cheeks to stop burning. "Mmm... ah... And Viluy?" she stammers, grabbing on the first thing she can think of to say.
[13:28] <Anastasia> "I kind of liked Viluy... as a friend, before this happened. Now? I just don't know," he says, a bit lamely.
[13:33] * Ami-chan nods. "And... Um. If this hadn't happened... would you have?" Ami asks nervously, unsure if she wants to ask the logical final question. "Despite the fact that she's younger?"
[13:33] <Anastasia> "Probably not. I think she is just a friend," he manages. "And... well..."
[13:36] <Ami-chan> "And...?" Ami probes gently, curious, despite her embarrassment.
[13:37] <Anastasia> "Ah, well..." Tomoe blushes even more. "You are a really nice girl, Ami. Cute, a bit demure but not a vegetable, smart... heck, if you were ten years older, I might've considered asking you out," he admits.
[13:43] * Ami-chan slowly turns a dark red, looking down at her lap until she can get her blush under control. "T-Thank you..." she replies meekly, smiling shyly. "I... If I were older, I'd accept..." she admits, suddenly amazed at herself. 'Where did that come from?'
[13:45] <Anastasia> He matches you at that, staring down at the floor. "Er... well... but now, it would almost be like dating one of Hotaru's friends, right?"
[13:48] * Ami-chan nods, slowly. "More or less, I'm afraid." She agrees, embarrassed, but no longer as nervous.
[13:49] <Anastasia> "Yes," he nods quickly. "If we went out together, they'd think it was a father and daughter, not two people on a date."
[13:53] * Ami-chan nods. "I'm afraid I'm not quite passable as an older woman." She agrees, smiling softly.
[13:55] <Anastasia> He laughs at that, nerviously. "I'm afraid not," he says, glancing over at the phone for an escape. "Oh, that's right," he says quickly. "What did you want for dinner," he asks, taking the phone.
[13:57] * Ami-chan giggles, mentally closing the subject, not without relief, and, a small corner of her mind, admits, disappointment and curiosity. "Whatever you like is fine." Ami replies, smiling.
[13:58] <Anastasia> He nods, ordering out for call in noodles and rice. Once that's done, "We should get back to business," he nods. "Those energy bursts, correct?"
[13:59] * Ami-chan nods, mentally switching tracks for the moment. "Mm. We have an idea of what's going on, now... but I don't know how it helps."
[14:02] <Anastasia> "It tells us that at least something by the rules is going on, something powerful," he says, settling back in.
[14:05] * Ami-chan nods. "Too powerful for us to confront directly." She agrees. "Though, that leaves us with finding out how to exploit what we've learned..."
[16:56] <Haruka> ------
[16:59] <Haruka> It's a fairly windy day, the coastal breezes in the area swirling and making Usagi's locks dance wildly. The clouds roll ominously in the sky and the weather looks about as moody as the target of Usagi's gaze. Haruka is propped against a guard rail, staring down at the turbulent waters below. This whole scene reminiscent of the painting, except it lacks the vibrancy the picture captured.
[17:02] * Usagi-chan approaches Haruka slowly - the other girl has been missing for nearly two days since the incident at the spa, and she's been rather worried about Haruka. "Haruka?" she says quietly, approaching the other girl from behind.
[17:04] * Haruka turns her head slightly in the direction of Usagi's voice, but doesn't do much else.
[17:06] * Usagi-chan steps up beside the second blonde, resting a hand lightly on the taller girl's back. "Are you all right?"
[17:09] <Haruka> "I've been better," Haruka answers back, running a hand through her hair wearily. "Didn't expect to be found here of all places though," she comments to Usagi, giving her a sidelong glance.
[17:11] <Usagi-chan> "Took me a while to find you - I spent most of the afternoon searching Tokyo, but I couldn't find anything. I just decided to come out here on a long shot, and there you were." She gives Haruka a small smile. "I'm sorry for what happened the other day."
[17:14] <Haruka> "It's not anyone's fault really," Haruka replies mirthlessly. "I just happened to be the victim of some bizarre cosmic joke."
[17:15] <Usagi-chan> "Haruka," Usagi says, sighing. "I don't think Viluy meant to hurt you that much - I wouldn't have chosen to be there if I'd known, but she just didn't know any better."
[17:18] <Haruka> "I know she didn't mean to," Haruka replies softly, choosing to avoid Usagi's gaze. "But that just makes it more frustrating since I can't really get mad at her either..." she trails off.
[17:20] * Usagi-chan sighs. "It's just... I don't know, Haruka, this has to be just as hard for her as it is for you. To feel Michiru's love for you and then to not want to get involved with another girl herself... that's got to be tough."
[17:27] <Haruka> "Having a past life love can be such a pain..." Haruka comments ruefully. "It might be easier for Michi-- Viluy and I to just forget everything."
[17:29] <Usagi-chan> "Not forget - the memories you have, you should treasure," Usagi says, leaning on the railing next to Haruka. "I look at my memories of Endymion the same way. But maybe you should let the past stay where it is, in the past."
[17:34] <Haruka> "It's not that easy..." Haruka whispers. "She's there, but she's not and it's her, but it's not and... Argh!!" Haruka grabs her head at how convoluted it all sounds. "It doesn't even make much sense when I say it out loud!" she spits out bitterly.
[17:37] <Usagi-chan> "You think I don't know how you feel?" Usagi asks quietly, looking over at Haruka. "Believe it or not, I've been there. Not EXACTLY the same thing, but close enough - I've been in a messed-up romance thanks to old memories."
[17:44] <Haruka> "I think you're one of the few people who could possibly understand," Haruka tells Usagi. She pushes away from the railing and motions for Usagi to chat and follow as she makes her way towards a vending machine. "I came out here to clear my head, but I'm not sure I've done a good job of it yet so far."
[17:44] <Usagi-chan> "So what IS on your mind?" Usagi asks quietly, walking along behind Haruka.
[17:50] * Haruka feeds the machine some loose change and extracts a can of hot coffee, which she tosses back and forth due to heat. "I can't stop living in the past," Haruka finally admits, stepping out of the way should Usagi want something as well.
[17:51] * Usagi-chan makes no move for the machine - for the moment at least. "You have to, Haruka," she says gently. "I have a lot of beautiful memories of the past myself, but I can't let them rule my life."
[17:55] <Haruka> "And that's why you're able to be happy, while I'm out here bumming it in my car doing a miserable impression of a hermit," Haruka sighs. "Even after all the mental prep-work I'd done for that day with Viluy, I don't think it was enough to get me ready."
[17:57] <Usagi-chan> "And there's nothing about me that makes me any more special than you, Haruka. If I could manage it, I'm sure you can too." She places a hand on Haruka's arm. "And I - and all the others - we'll all be there to help you along, if that's what you want. I know you're hurting right now, and I want to help you get over that hurt if I can."
[18:03] <Haruka> "It's something I'll have to get over on my own," Haruka replies, though she covers Usagi's hand and squeezes it gratefully. "The only person who can make this problem go away is me. Unless you're hiding a bag of magic pixie dust that'll make this all better?" Haruka gives Usagi a more genuine smile for reassurance, even if it is still slightly weak.
[18:04] <Usagi-chan> "Magic pixie dust no, but I do have something that will help," Usagi replies, giving the tall girl a wry smile.
[18:08] <Haruka> "And now what would that be?" Haruka asks, her curiosity piqued by Usagi's vagueness.
[18:09] * Usagi-chan points to herself, wearing the same wry smile. "It's called a sounding board," she replies. "Someone who can listen to you get things out and help you sort through them."
[18:11] <Haruka> "The pixie dust would've been better," Haruka notes with a chuckle, some of her usual cheer coming back.
[18:12] <Usagi-chan> "Afraid I'm all out of that," Usagi says with a smile. "Guess you'll just have to put up with me instead."
[18:16] <Haruka> "Not a bad consolation prize, I suppose," Haruka comments with a sagely nod. "I'll have to hit up Rei to get testimonial on the effectiveness of the Usagi sounding board. Might have to bribe her with manga to get anything truthful..." she notes with an exaggerated look of contemplation.
[18:18] * Usagi-chan snorts. "She's used it a few times, and I've used her as a sounding board a few times myself," she replies. "That's what's nice about having friends around to talk to," she says with a smile.
[18:20] <Haruka> "I'll think about it," Haruka says. "Among other things."
[18:23] <Usagi-chan> "Don't just think by yourself, Haruka - that's all I'm saying. Even if you don't want to talk to me in particular, it'll help to find SOMEONE to confide in," the shorter blonde says. "Don't just bottle your problems up until they're ready to explode."
[18:24] <Haruka> "You are rather good at turning depressive moods around though so I'll give you points for that," Haruka notes, while peering at Usagi. "And as for talking to someone... like I said, I'll think about it. Opening up to someone is not a forte of mine."
[18:28] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit at that. "I understand it might not be easy - I'll try not to push too hard. I just want to try to help you work things through, if I can."
[18:31] <Haruka> "I know you're trying to help," Haruka says, smiling at the shortest senshi. "But know that I'm trying to let you help too. Though remember that a Haruka is a truly stubborn and difficult breed of animal to deal with, so prepare yourself." Haruka warns with a waggle of her finger.
[18:31] * Usagi-chan giggles. "I'll keep it in mind."
[18:38] <Haruka> "I'm probably going to wander about a bit more, and I may even show up for class tomorrow," Haruka tells Usagi. "But for now, want a lift home? I can at least do that for you."
[18:41] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "I can get myself home faster than you could drive - that's how I got out here, after all." She grins a bit at that. "But I'll see you tomorrow at lunch, okay?"
[18:42] <Haruka> "No promises on my end, in case I can't keep it, but I'll try." Haruka replies.
[18:43] * Usagi-chan nods. "I'll see you tomorrow then, Haruka. Take care of yourself." Usagi retreats a couple of paces from the other blonde.
[14:08] <Anastasia> ---
[14:10] <Anastasia> Thus, the week passes by. By Thursday, it's concluded that nothing major was learned, sadly, and life trudges on... until...
[14:13] <Anastasia> In the office after school, Rei, Usagi, and Eudial are quietly discussing the events, Professor Tomoe entering with a nod. "Has Eudial talked to you yet?"
[14:13] * Usagi-chan glances over at Eudial. "Talked to us about what?"
[14:14] <Anastasia> "Not yet, Professor," she shakes her head.
[14:15] * Rei-chan glances at Eudial curiously. "What is it?"
[14:16] <Anastasia> Taking over before she can speak, "I've been checking out the biggest gatherings to occur here, to see if we can predict where Zirae will show next. Today, there is a huge baseball game that a visiting dignitary will attend. If he's going for quantity, I would imagine he will strike there."
[14:17] * Usagi-chan blows out a breath. "If that's true, we can face him there. But what would we do if we went? We still don't know enough to stop him," Usagi replies.
[14:17] <Rei-chan> "Wouldn't hurt to check it out, then..." Rei says thoughtfully. "Fighting him isn't wise unless we have to, but... perhaps we could get more information by observing?"
[14:18] <Anastasia> Tomoe nods. "I'm more thinking of observation myself. Your senses, as well as a few machines I'll have Eudial bring along."
[14:19] <Usagi-chan> "What if he recognizes us, though?" Usagi asks. "We've been at two of his attacks so far and managed to stay up both times - isn't it likely that he'll figure out who we are?"
[14:20] <Rei-chan> "If we can keep ourselves out of sight... a baseball stadium does give a lot of cover in the stands," Rei notes.
[14:20] <Anastasia> Tomoe nods again. "That's what I was thinking of. A direct confrontation is ill-advised at the current time."
[14:21] <Usagi-chan> "I guess it's worth a try," Usagi admits. "What time is the game?"
[14:21] <Anastasia> "In an hour and a half," he says, glancing at his watch. "I've arranged tickets already."
[14:22] <Usagi-chan> "I guess the only hard part will be making sure we don't get knocked out with everyone else when he shows up," Usagi says. "Other than that, we just sit back and watch, right?"
[14:26] <Rei-chan> "We've both been able to resist it both times," Rei notes, "But Eudial was affected last week when he hit us during that school ceremony."
[14:27] <Anastasia> He nods. "Most of us were affected. The machines just have to be there - I'm having Eudial go in case something happens out of the ordinary."
[14:28] * Rei-chan nods. "From what we've seen, he pretty much ignores the people he's stunned. Really, we'll be the ones at most risk by shrugging it off."
[14:29] * Usagi-chan nods. "If we're all sitting anyway, why don't we just slump over with everyone else? We can keep our eyes open, we just won't be able to move."
[14:30] <Rei-chan> "We won't be transparant, though," Rei points out.
[14:36] <Anastasia> Tomoe nods again. "Regardless, though, he hopefully won't pick a fight. Just lay low and get readings."
[14:37] * Usagi-chan nods. "I think we can do that," Usagi says, looking over at Rei.
[14:37] * Rei-chan nods. "I won't be in any hurry to pick a fight with him after last time."
[14:39] <Anastasia> He nods a second time. "Good. Hopefully, he'll show and we'll get the information and breakthrough we need."
[14:40] <Anastasia> ---
[14:41] <Anastasia> An hour later, you are seated for the game. You were given decent seats, close enough to home field to see without being too far away, but not in the front, either. Eudial sits in her seat, bored. "Hope he shows," she muses, still a bit cheery from the drive here. "I'd hate to sit through three hours of baseball otherwise."
[14:42] <Usagi-chan> "You and me both," Usagi grumbles.
[14:42] * Rei-chan nods silently, not having any fondness for this American import.
[14:46] <Anastasia> The next half hour passes listlessly as the players slowly come out, the pregame in full swing. At this point, Eudial seems to be paying more attention to the cute baseball players than anything else, bored even by that. "Those uniforms spoil everything," she comments idly.
[14:47] <Rei-chan> "Hmmm?" Rei looks up from her large but horribly overpriced drink.
[14:47] * Usagi-chan is slumped over in her uncomfortable seat, her eyes half-closed.
[14:48] <Anastasia> "Those uniforms don't look good on them," she gestures, "If they're going to run around like this, they could at least do it in something that lets us admire them. Some of them are pretty cute."
[14:49] <Rei-chan> "I guess..." Rei shrugs. "Soccer is better for that than this."
[14:49] * Usagi-chan's head dips for a second, the blonde coming to with a start. "Hmm? What's going on?" she says sleepily.
[14:49] <Rei-chan> "Nothing," Rei sighs. "Nothing at all."
[14:49] <Anastasia> "Nothing," Eudial just shakes her head. "The game is about to start."
[14:50] <Usagi-chan> "It hasn't even started yet?" Usagi complains.
[14:50] <Anastasia> "I'm afraid not," Eudial winces, shifting a bit in the shortish red skirt and tank top she chose for the day. "I wonder how these damn slow players would like a Fire Buster to hurry them up?"
[14:51] * Usagi-chan gives Eudial a frown at that, but doesn't say anything.
[14:52] <Rei-chan> "A monster attack would spice things up," Rei nods. "Although I can see why the Dark Kingdom never tried to take energy from baseball games..."
[14:54] <Anastasia> Eudial nods, yawning. As she does so, a figure appears over home plate, an annoyingly familiar one...
[14:55] * Usagi-chan catches the slight movement from the corner of her eye, turning to look at it. "Oh god, is that him?"
[14:55] <Rei-chan> "Oh," Rei perks up a bit, getting ready to duck down under the seats directly in front of them.
[14:55] <Anastasia> It is, a wave of effect washing over the entire arena...(Soul check at +1, all of you.)
[14:56] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6+1
[14:56] * Musk-bot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6+1 and gets 11."
[14:56] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6+1
[14:56] * Musk-bot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6+1 and gets 11."
[14:56] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[14:56] * Musk-bot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[14:57] <Anastasia> Slumping over with the others Eudial goes transparent, the effects missing Usagi and Rei!
[14:57] <Anastasia> Yet it felt stronger this time, only your half expectation of it allowing you to avoid joining her in that fate!
[14:57] * Usagi-chan frowns at Eudial's state, but keeps her presence of mind enough to slump over with the others in the stadium, all the while watching the figure of Zirae.
[14:57] * Rei-chan promptly slips off her seat and ducks down behind the back of the seats in front of her, peeking between the slumped over people and down at Zirae.
[15:01] <Anastasia> The man seems to be just standing there for a few seconds, coming up with nothing. "Nothing," he says aloud, the dead voice carrying well.
[15:02] * Usagi-chan focuses, trying to see if she can detect anything at all about the white-suited figure over the field below.
[15:02] * Rei-chan stays right where she is, not wanting to do anything to draw his attention. Observation only, after all.
[15:04] <Anastasia> Usagi - You don't feel anything from him at all on your aura sense.
[15:05] <Anastasia> Standing there a moment more, the bodies again solidify and he vanishes without further incident.
[15:05] * Usagi-chan sits up, taking a deep breath - that was more nerve-wracking than she'd expected.
[15:06] * Rei-chan gets back up onto her seat. "You okay, Eudial?" she asks, expecting the redhead hasn't noticed a thing.
[15:09] <Anastasia> Eudial turns to you, finishing her yawn. "Sure, just bored," she says, not the least bit disrupted.
[15:09] * Rei-chan nods, unsurprised. "Zirae was just here. We can go, now."
[15:09] <Usagi-chan> "Did your machine get its readings?" Usagi asks.
[15:10] <Anastasia> She blinks, absently pulling out a little hand held machine. "Looks like it. Shit!" she says with a bit of heat.
[15:10] <Rei-chan> "What?" Rei asks, alarmed.
[15:11] <Usagi-chan> "What's wrong?" Usagi asks, looking down at the machine.
[15:15] <Anastasia> "Oh, it got the readings," she replies. "I just wanted to see the bastard myself, that's all."
[15:16] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "I barely managed to stay up myself, this time - it seemed like he was stronger, somehow."
[15:16] <Rei-chan> "Probably used more effort to affect a larger area today," Rei guesses.
[15:18] <Usagi-chan> "I guess we can head back to Mugen now," Usagi says, frowning a bit. "And I'll have to be sure to warn Mom not to take Chibi Usa out to big public places."
[15:19] * Rei-chan nods and stands. "No sense sticking around for this, now."
[15:20] <Anastasia> Eudial just nods. "Let's go, then."
[15:23] <Anastasia> ---
[15:24] <Anastasia> Shortly there after, you are back at Mugen. Eudial seems to take some unstated sense of annoyance out on the drive, pushing it even by her standards. At least it's not a long trip, the girls soon back at the Witches office. "He showed, did he?" Tomoe asks when you arrive.
[15:24] * Usagi-chan seems a bit paler than usual after Eudial's mad dash back to Mugen. "Yeah, he did," she says.
[15:25] <Rei-chan> "He never noticed us, this time. Just briefly appeared and stunned everyone before leaving," Rei adds.
[15:25] <Anastasia> Nodding to Eudial as she hands him the recorder, "Did either of you sense anything of note, then?"
[15:26] * Rei-chan shakes her head. "Complete blank to me."
[15:26] <Usagi-chan> "Nothing - he was just as 'not there' as he's been the past two times." Usagi replies.
[15:30] <Anastasia> Nodding, "Alright. I'll work over this data with the others tonight and see if this helps us at all."
[15:31] <Rei-chan> "Well... if that's everything you need us for..." Rei trails off questioningly.
[15:31] <Usagi-chan> "Is there anything I can do to help?" Usagi asks. "I know I'm not as technical as you guys are, but it feels like I'm just sitting back letting you do all the work."
[15:33] <Anastasia> "Don't worry about it, Usagi," he shakes his head. "It's just technical - you already did a fine job today."
[15:34] * Usagi-chan nods. "All right then - let us know if you find anything."

[17:17] <Anastasia> ---
[17:31] <Anastasia> That evening, as Rei and Usagi head home... it's getting past dinnertime and Rei and Usagi are hungry as they approach the Tsukino house. From the smoky smell lingering in the air, someone grilled in the backyard. Smells really good, too.
[17:31] <Usagi-chan> "Mmm..." Usagi says, closing her eyes as she sniffs the air. "Wonder what's for dinner."
[17:32] <Rei-chan> "Smells nice, whatever it is," Rei notes, smiling as they draw nearer to the source of the aroma.
[17:32] <Anastasia> As you get closer to Usagi's house, you can smell the scent of cooking meat. Steaks, perhaps, a fine treat for a nice sumemr day?
[17:33] * Usagi-chan opens the door to her home, letting Rei go inside first. "I'm home!" she calls out.
[17:33] * Rei-chan slips off her shoes as she enters ahead of Usagi.
[17:35] <Anastasia> As you enter, the smell of freshly cooked meat, vegetables, and other nice things greet your nose. Cookout, perhaps? "Hello, Usagi, you have a guest back here," you can just hear Mom call from the backyard.
[17:36] * Usagi-chan slips off her shoes, padding through the house towards the back door. "Really? Who is it?"
[17:36] * Rei-chan follows Usagi, also a little curious.
[17:37] <Anastasia> A redwood picnic table is in back, almost groaning under the weight of dishes full of treats. Ann is sitting on one of them, from her nearly empty plate having made a good dent in the meal. "Hey, Usagi," she calls. "You should've told me your Mom was a good cook!"
[17:38] * Usagi-chan blinks. "Hey, Ann, what are you doing over here? And yeah, she is a really good cook."
[17:38] <Rei-chan> "Hi, Ann," Rei waves herself.
[17:39] <Anastasia> Ikkuko smiles at that from her position on the other side of the table, Dad glancing up from behind the open grill. "Yeah, she is. I wish our apartment would let us have a grill up there," she notes, before shaking her head. "Anyway, I ran into someone today."
[17:39] <Usagi-chan> "Really? Who?" Usagi asks.
[17:42] <Anastasia> "That Zirae freak," she grimaces. "There was a free concert yesterday evening, and he showed up there." Scowling now, "He took off before I could do much of anything, though."
[17:43] * Usagi-chan blows out a breath. "Probably for the best that he did - we saw him today ourselves," Usagi says, indicating the miko next to her.
[17:43] * Rei-chan frowns. "He was at a baseball game today. Just how many places has he searched that we don't know about?"
[17:44] <Anastasia> Ann snorts, grabbing an ice can of soda and downing it before going on. "He took no more than a minute or so, too. If he's just going place to place, probably half the city by now."
[17:45] <Usagi-chan> "He showed up at Mugen on Saturday and we actually tried to fight him," Usagi says, leaning back against the house. "It wasn't even a fight - we couldn't do a thing to him."
[17:45] * Rei-chan looks thoughtful. "If he could detect those shards, he would have found them by now. They must be too tiny for even him to detect." 'That just leaves Chibi Usa...'
[17:46] * Usagi-chan gets rather solemn as she picks up on Rei's thought.
[17:47] <Anastasia> "He showed up at Mugen," Ann frowns even more. "And what are those shards you're going on about, Mars?"
[17:48] <Rei-chan> "Shards of the Silver Crystal that shattered after we defeated Metallia. They spread into thousands of people in Tokyo and diffused their energy..." Rei frowns a bit. "I wonder if it was that kind of energy that made you and Alan pick Tokyo over anywhere else on Earth?"
[17:48] <Anastasia> As she says that, "Usagi-chan, Rei, help yourselves to dinner," Dad calls. "I'm just finishing the last of it."
[17:49] <Usagi-chan> "Thanks, Daddy!" Usagi says, taking a plate off the table and starting to fill it with food.
[17:49] * Rei-chan proceeds to dig in herself.
[17:50] <Anastasia> Ann shakes her head, a bit grumpy now. "Alan was the one who really chose Tokyo - even then, I think it's because the Tree kind of wanted him to go there. He was never really clear on it." At that, Ann takes a moment to get another steak, tearing it apart at a pace to match Usagi. "This city does have amazingly good energy."
[17:51] <Rei-chan> "Could be it. The energy is tiny and diffuse now, but it probably does have a subtle effect on Tokyo..." Rei muses, wondering what that could mean in the long term.
[17:51] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "I've never been anywhere else to compare," the blonde says. "And it may not be the Crystal, either - Beryl attacked Tokyo too, and that was before anyone had any real idea of where the Crystal was."
[17:52] <Anastasia> Shrugging, "This city does seem to attract a lot of offbeat people," she notes. "All of you at Mugen, for example. Maybe it's just because it's such a big city?"
[17:53] * Usagi-chan shrugs herself. "It might be, I don't know. Maybe it's just really weird luck or something."
[17:53] <Rei-chan> "The Dark Kingdom did attack elsewhere, but yeah, their main focus was here." Nodding to Ann, "Part of it probably is just statistics. So many people here would mean a lot of them would be... different."
[17:55] <Anastasia> She nods. "Anyway, what about Zirae? How'd that battle go against him at Mugen?" she asks, reaching for more food. Even with Usagi portions made and extra meant for a day's leftovers, it looks like dinner isn't going to last all that long.
[17:56] * Rei-chan grabs as much as she can before the other two make her go hungry. "It went badly. He brushed off our attacks like nothing, and took down Ami and Cyprine without even trying, it seemed."
[17:57] * Usagi-chan nods. "He made a shield I made with the Grail disappear like it wasn't even there, and throwing every last scrap of power I could manage at him with the Grail barely managed to faze him."
[18:01] <Anastasia> Coughing a bit as a scrap of steak catches at Usagi's words. "You're kidding me, right? There's no way that freak is that strong."
[18:02] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "I'm NOT kidding. He stood up to something almost as powerful as what killed Metallia," Usagi says quietly.
[18:02] <Rei-chan> "He is," Rei nods. "We're going to avoid fighting him unless we have to until we figure out some way to make him more vulnerable to our attacks. I suggest you do the same if you run into him again," Rei tells the elf-girl seriously.
[18:04] <Anastasia> "Alright," she nods, a bit glum. "You're sure he just wasn't doing something sneaky, though?"
[18:04] <Usagi-chan> "Pretty sure," Usagi says with a sigh. "Ami and the Professor have been working on things to try to find some kind of weakness, but it's slow going so far."
[18:05] <Anastasia> A muttered, annoyed curse there. "That's great. Anything else on him, Usagi?"
[18:06] <Usagi-chan> "Nothing yet," Usagi replies quietly. "I'm just trying to keep Chibi Usa away from any places where there are a lot of people around - if we're lucky, he won't bother going house to house."
[18:09] <Anastasia> "Hopefully," Ann says. "Say, where is the kid? I haven't seen her since I got here." she asks, glancing around and not seeing the child.
[18:09] <Rei-chan> "The only thing stopping him is time," Rei points out. "And considering how long ago he lost the Crystal, we can assume he is patient enough to try something like that if he has to." She doesn't look entirely happy, "I know it's grim, but we can't rely on assuming he won't do something because it's inconvienient."
[18:09] <Usagi-chan> "Not sure," Usagi says, frowning a bit. "Where is Chibi Usa, Mom?"
[18:10] <Anastasia> "She's asleep in her room, Usagi," Mom calls back. "She said she didn't sleep well last night."
[18:11] <Anastasia> "If things start to look that way, why don't you just keep her on the Moon for awhile?" Ann suggests. "Better than waiting for that freak to find her here, Mars."
[18:12] * Rei-chan sighs. "He said he sensed the Crystal in this city. If he senses it on the Moon... there's a lot less people to search through."
[18:12] * Usagi-chan nods to that. "I'll go see how she's doing," Usagi says, heading into the house and up to the attic bedroom.
[18:14] * Rei-chan nods as Usagi departs, continuing to eat the barbecued food she's gathered.
[18:14] <Anastasia> Ann frowns, idly watching Usagi go inside as she ponders that over. On heading upstairs, Usagi finds Chibi Usa, asleep in her bed. She looks fine, taking a nice evening nap. So innocent there, like she's just a normal child and not a Crystal powered refugee from another world.
[18:16] * Usagi-chan smiles at the sight of the peacefully sleeping girl, ducking out of the room without disturbing her rest.
[18:17] <Anastasia> Heading back outside, you find Rei and Ann eating, no conversation at the moment.
[18:18] <Usagi-chan> "She looks like she's having a good nap," Usagi says with a small smile. "I didn't want to wake her up though."
[18:19] <Rei-chan> "She's missing a great dinner, but I suppose she needs her rest," Rei nods after gulping down some steak.
[18:21] * Usagi-chan nods, taking up her plate once again. "Especially if she didn't sleep well last night," Usagi agrees. "We both know how that feels." She nods to Rei.
[18:21] * Rei-chan thins her lips, but nods.
[18:22] <Anastasia> Nodding quietly, "Say, have either of you seen Herb in the last few days?" she asks, idly. "Haven't caught him since that party where Zirae showed up."
[18:22] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "Last time I saw him was at Mugen at the attack on Saturday."
[18:23] <Rei-chan> "Huh?" Rei looks over at Ann. "Yeah... that attack. And before that was last Wednesday when he was asking for our advice about a problem in his swim class..."
[18:24] <Rei-chan> 'Wow. Ann hasn't seen Herb in nearly two weeks...' Rei thinks, surprised.
[18:25] <Usagi-chan> 'Has it... yeah, I guess it HAS been about that long, hasn't it?' Usagi thinks. "Did you need him for something? I can probably give him a message at school tomorrow if you want."
[18:29] <Anastasia> "No, I'll catch up with him myself. I've been a bit busy." Ann replies, smiling a bit. "He's a nice guy, isn't he?"
[18:30] <Usagi-chan> "His heart's in the right place," Usagi says.
[18:31] <Anastasia> "Hm, Usagi?" she asks, a bit curious.
[18:32] <Rei-chan> "He does tend to be tactless," Rei admits, "But I don't think he ever means anything by it."
[18:32] * Usagi-chan blushes a bit. "Well, it's... I know he's trying really hard to help out as much as he can, it's just that it doesn't always come out very well."
[18:33] <Anastasia> "The old foot in the mouth," Ann smiles a bit. "It can be cute, sometimes. Even if it can piss me off - Alan's done the same thing, though he's been better at it since he's been with Makoto."
[18:33] * Usagi-chan giggles a bit at that.
[18:34] * Rei-chan smiles. "Yeah. Makoto doesn't let him get away with much."
[18:35] <Anastasia> Ann nods, approvingly. "He's happy with her, though I'm starting to wonder if he should just move in with her." A slightly strong smirk there. "I just teleport to the Tree or the mall whenever he invites her over these days."
[18:36] * Usagi-chan blushes a bit at that. "Is it THAT bad?" she asks. 'Not that I can really say TOO much,' she thinks, glancing over at Rei.
[18:36] * Rei-chan coughs and blushes, glancing at Usagi's parents. "Yes... it's nice to give them their privacy..."
[18:38] <Anastasia> Your parents and Shingo are giving you distance, at least. "Yep," she smirks even wider. "I doubt they even really notice, too. I just couldn't take it anymore when it when from grunts and groans to 'Alan! More!' and 'Harder, Mako!'." Ann follows it up with a shake of her head. "It's not like they do it all the time when she comes over, but still."
[18:38] * Rei-chan blushes even more. "Uh... yeah. So they're really loud, huh?"
[18:38] * Usagi-chan facepalms at that. "We could have done without the details, Ann," she says quietly.
[18:39] <Anastasia> Smirking still, "You two are mature, you know. Not like I should have to mince my words while we gossip."
[18:40] <Usagi-chan> "We're not the only ones here," Usagi says in a flat voice, still covering her face with her hand. 'At least Chibi Usa is still upstairs...'
[18:40] * Rei-chan coughs. "It's still... not polite. Especially to Makoto and Alan." 'Of course, after what Makoto told Tellu, I don't have too much sympathy...'
[18:41] <Anastasia> Glancing back, Ann starts to blush rather strongly. "Oh. Hi, Mr and Mrs Tsukino," she says half lamely. At that, the two simply wave, getting up. "Bring in the food when you and your friend are done, Usagi-chan," Mom calls.
[18:41] <Usagi-chan> "All right, Mom," Usagi calls back.
[18:42] <Anastasia> "Ah," Ann says, trying to recover her footing. "Anyway..."
[18:44] <Rei-chan> "Leaving aside Makoto and Alan," Rei blushes more, a few choice mental images coming forward. "How are things between you and Herb, anyway?" Wow. That just killed the fun mental images of a moment ago.
[18:44] <Anastasia> "Like THAT," Ann implies, letting her emphasis tell what she means. "We've kissed some, but we haven't done anything more than that."
[18:46] * Usagi-chan nods, not really wanting any more details than that.
[18:47] * Rei-chan quashes down the urge to ask if Herb was a guy or a girl when they kissed, instead simply saying "There's something to be said for taking it slowly," in a fairly neutral tone.
[18:50] <Anastasia> Ann lets that hang a minute, the speaks. "I guess." Turning her gaze to the still warm grill thoughtfully, "He is a nice guy, though."
[18:51] * Rei-chan glances at Usagi, wondering what she makes of this.
[18:52] * Usagi-chan gives Rei a look that says she's just as lost as the miko is. 'It... I don't know, would you want to me to describe you just as a 'nice girl'?' Usagi sends to her love.
[18:54] <Rei-chan> 'That's what I was thinking,' Rei replies. "He does seem to like you a lot, Ann," she says aloud, wondering how the elf-girl will respond to that.
[18:55] <Anastasia> She just nods to that. "He does. He cares about me." Ann turns back to you two. "I just... blah. I feel caged being in a relationship right now, you know?" Thoughtfully, "I just found this wonderful planet, so full of vibrant people and customs. I want to go out there and see it."
[18:56] * Usagi-chan glances over at Rei meaningfully. "You feel trapped?"
[18:57] <Rei-chan> "Want to play the field a little?" Rei asks, keeping her tone understanding, even if she can't resist a slight smirk at the turn of phrase.
[18:58] <Anastasia> "I guess so," she replies after another few moments, hiding her face by taking another drink. "See what's out there, live a little."
[18:58] <Rei-chan> "I can understand that," Rei nods. "Have you talked to Herb about any of this?"
[19:02] <Anastasia> "Not really," Ann shakes her head. "Besides a bit with Makoto a few months ago, I haven't really talked to anyone about it."
[19:02] <Rei-chan> "A few months?" Rei blinks, "You've been keeping this bottled up for that long?"
[19:03] <Usagi-chan> "I definitely would try to talk to him," Usagi urges gently. "Especially if you've been feeling this way for a while."
[19:04] <Anastasia> "I guess..." Ann says again, sounding rather unsure of herself and uncharacteristically quiet. "I like him a lot... I don't want to hurt his feelings with this, really."
[19:05] <Rei-chan> "If you don't say anything it'll just fester," Rei says, a little worried. "Then when you eventually have to let it out, it'll be a lot harsher on him..."
[19:07] <Anastasia> Ann nods, almost idly. "I think you're right, it's just hard to do, you know?"
[19:07] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah, I know," Usagi says quietly. "First hand."
[19:09] * Rei-chan keeps quiet, the reasons for her past two breakups being rather different in scope from what Ann is dealing with and Usagi's situation with Endymion.
[19:12] <Anastasia> "I'll do it tomorrow, then," she resolves. "We'll talk about this and decide what's up."
[19:12] * Usagi-chan nods. "Better to get it out of the way," Usagi agrees. "Let me know if you want to talk about it later."
[19:13] <Rei-chan> "He might be understanding," Rei offers, "Just wanting to broaden your horizons doesn't mean you cut each other off completely. Talking to him is the best thing for it, really."
[19:16] <Anastasia> Nodding idly, "Yeah, maybe." At that, Ann rises. "Think I'm gonna go talk to Alan before he goes to bed," she says without preamble, vanishing. "Later."
[19:16] <Rei-chan> "Bye," Rei waves, even as Ann disappears.
[19:17] <Usagi-chan> "Later, Ann," Usagi says to the departing elf. She looks over at Rei. "What do you think?"
[19:18] * Rei-chan shrugs. "Herb's a grown man - when he's not a girl. He'll be okay. I'm just hoping Ann doesn't get too wild once she becomes single again..."
[19:20] * Usagi-chan smiles wryly at that. "Yeah, I expect she could probably raise some hell in a night on the town." The blonde moves towards the leftovers left outside, starting to gather them together. "I do feel a little bad for Herb, but what can you do?"
[19:21] <Rei-chan> "Who knows. If they stay on good terms, maybe they'll get back together after Ann works this out of her system?" Rei replies. "But, yeah. If they don't, it's not the end of the world for either of them."
[19:22] * Usagi-chan nods. "I guess you're right," she agrees, picking up a stack of plates. "It's just a little sad to see it happen, even if it is the right thing."
[19:24] <Rei-chan> "Suppose so, but Ann doesn't seem too bothered herself. And from what she says, she and Herb weren't all that serious - I'm sure they'll both be fine."
[19:25] * Usagi-chan smiles wryly at that. "Didn't really think about it that way. I guess not everyone is like Endymion and I were," she replies, carrying the stack of plates inside to the kitchen.
[19:27] * Rei-chan snorts, her expression becoming a bit clouded. "Not hardly."
[19:28] * Usagi-chan comes back out a moment later, this time collecting leftovers. "Looks like there's enough here for Chibi Usa to have a good dinner when she finally wakes up," Usagi comments idly. "I was a little worried with the way Ann was digging in."
[19:29] <Rei-chan> "It'll be weird when the tree can sustain her again and she suddenly stops eating so much," Rei remarks with a slight smile.
[19:30] * Usagi-chan giggles at that. "It's just amazing to watch her and Alan go at it," the blonde replies with a grin. "I've never seen anyone else eat so much."
[19:31] <Rei-chan> "I have," Rei replies, grinning.
[19:31] * Usagi-chan gives Rei a puzzled look. "You have?"
[19:31] * Rei-chan nods, smirking at Usagi.
[19:32] * Usagi-chan takes a minute to work out what the miko means, huffing a bit as she does. "I do not eat that much!"
[19:33] <Rei-chan> "You do," Rei replies simply, standing up.
[19:33] <Usagi-chan> "Do not!" is the articulate retort.
[19:34] * Rei-chan pokes Usagi on the forehead. "Don't lie, Dumpling Head."
[19:35] <Usagi-chan> "I am not lying!" Usagi shoots back. "I have a very healthy appetite - but I don't eat THAT much!"
[19:36] <Rei-chan> "Yes you do," Rei replies with an insufferably smug grin.
[19:38] <Usagi-chan> "I don't eat that much!" Usagi says, pouting a bit. "I KNOW I eat more than a lot of people, but I'm not that bad!"
[19:39] <Rei-chan> "You eat a lot, and so does Ann. Don't try to say that she's worse," Rei replies, shaking her head.
[19:41] * Usagi-chan turns her back on Rei with a flounce, going back to cleaning up the table without replying.
[19:43] <Rei-chan> "Don't worry, Usagi," Rei continues in the same tone, putting her hands on the blonde's sides and leaning over her back. "You might eat a lot, but you're still perfectly formed."
[19:43] * Usagi-chan just keeps at her work, determined not to give in THAT easily... although it was a nice compliment.
[19:46] <Rei-chan> "My, aren't we cold, today?" Rei asks, drawing back and sounding amused. Her cheerful state being helped by the view of Usagi leaning over the table...
[19:50] * Usagi-chan huffs, taking the plate of leftovers back into the house. "Glad YOU think it's funny," she replies as she passes Rei, stalking angrily into the house.
[19:51] <Rei-chan> "Don't you want me to rub your back after your meal?" Rei carols sweetly as Usagi starts heading indoors.
[19:53] * Usagi-chan pauses for just a second at that, but continues on into the house without answering.
[19:56] * Rei-chan raises an eyebrow at that, taking a moment before following the blonde inside.
[19:57] <Usagi-chan> Inside, Usagi is in the kitchen, just putting away the covered plate of food as Rei comes in. She doesn't seem to notice Rei come in, heading over to start on the dishes afterwards.
[19:59] * Rei-chan leans on the doorframe, observing Usagi for a moment. "You really are in a bad mood," she finally says.
[20:00] * Usagi-chan sighs, up to her elbows in soapy water. "There was almost nothing left after dinner," she finally says. "I don't even know if it'll be enough for Chibi Usa."
[20:02] <Rei-chan> "I'm sure it'll be fine. Even if not, there's bound to be some other stuff in the house to make up for it," Rei comments, unconcerned. "You can't seriously tell me that's what's got you so wound up?"
[20:05] * Usagi-chan continues to work for a couple of minutes before answering Rei, her back still turned to the miko. "I'm supposed to be taking care of her," she finally says, her voice sounding rather choked. "There's a man out there right now looking for her that's going to KILL her the minute he finds her, and I can't do a damn thing about it. I'M supposed to be the one taking care of her, and I can't even make sure she's got enough to eat!"
[20:06] <Rei-chan> Rei's previously amused and mischievous (and becoming slightly irritated) demeanour vanishes. "Usagi..." she says softly, walking across the kitchen to her girlfriend.
[20:08] * Usagi-chan throws the dishrag into the sink, leaning on the counter. "What kind of mother am I?" she says, her voice thick with anger. "I can't do a single damned thing to help my daughter!"
[20:10] * Rei-chan snorts. "Don't give me that," she says, her tone entirely unsympathetic. "Chibi Usa's entire world vanished less than a month ago - by all rights she should be a complete wreck. But she's not. She's happy, and she's coping. Do you know why that is, Usagi?"
[20:11] * Usagi-chan doesn't answer, her head still hanging over the sink.
[20:13] <Rei-chan> After letting the silence hang a moment, Rei picks up. "I'll tell you, then. It's because of you, Usagi." Grabbing Usagi by the shoulder, she turns the blonde around. "She loves you, and the love you give her makes all her pain go away," she continues, voice becoming thick with emotion. "Don't you dare say you can't do anything for her."
[20:14] * Usagi-chan's face is streaked with tears already. "And what good is all of that going to be when Zirae finds her?" she says, sniffling. "It won't even make a difference anymore, because she's going to be gone - and it'll be MY fault."
[20:17] <Rei-chan> "It makes a difference to her, dammit!" Rei snaps. "We'll protect her. But in the meantime, she should be happy - which she won't be if she sees you beating yourself up over this!"
[20:19] * Usagi-chan turns her face away from Rei, unable to do more with the other girl holding her in place. "I'm trying," she says in a broken voice. "But it's so hard - it feels like it's just a matter of time before she gets taken away from me, and it's hard to keep smiling at her when I know it could be the last time I'll ever see her!"
[20:21] <Rei-chan> "It won't be," Rei assures her fervently, "We'll protect her and we'll find a way to deal with Zirae."
[20:22] <Usagi-chan> "How?" Usagi whispers. "I want to believe we will, but no matter how much I want to believe we'll take care of him, I can't figure out any way we can do anything!"
[20:23] <Rei-chan> "We'll find a way!" Rei insists. "We have before and we will again!" She sighs a bit as she draws back to regard her love, "Geez, Usagi. It's not like you to be so hopeless."
[20:24] <Usagi-chan> "I'm trying NOT to be, but it's so hard... everyone expects me to be so confident all the time, and sometimes I just... it gets to be too much, you know?" She wipes her eyes on the back of her arm. "I know the Professor and Ami will come up with something - they're way better at figuring that stuff out than me. I'm just scared for Chibi Usa - I'm just afraid that it won't be in time to help her."
[20:34] * Rei-chan softens a bit. "If it's too hard... let it out, then. I'm here for you." She sighs softly, "It's no good wearing a fake mask, and you'll feel better afterwards," she encourages, quietly hoping that this turns out better than when she used to give Minako similar advice...
[20:35] * Usagi-chan deflates visibly at that. "I'm sorry I got so upset... it's just that this whole situation is really making me upset, and I didn't want to bother you with it."
[20:36] <Rei-chan> "It's okay, Usagi," Rei shakes her head. "We all feel that way sometimes." She smirks slightly, "Better you take it out on me than Chibi Usa, so go ahead."
[20:37] <Usagi-chan> "I shouldn't take it out on anyone," Usagi says with a sigh. "You don't deserve it any more than she does - but I can't take it out on the one person that DOES deserve it." She lowers her face at that.
[20:39] <Rei-chan> "You're only human," Rei offers. "We'll get to Zirae in time, I've no doubt there. Until then..." she shrugs, "We all do what we have to."
[20:41] * Usagi-chan nods, still sniffling a bit. "I just want this to be over," she says quietly. "I want to be able to enjoy my time with my family and my girlfriend and all the rest of my friends without having to look over my shoulder every five minutes."
[20:42] <Rei-chan> "I know," Rei nods, drawing Usagi close and rubbing her back soothingly.
[20:43] * Usagi-chan doesn't make any reply to that, merely leaning against Rei as the miko embraces her.
[20:44] <Anastasia> As you hold, "Mommy," Chibi Usa calls from the doorway into the kitchen. She looks at the two of you, a slight frown on her face.
[20:45] * Usagi-chan hastily moves away from Rei, wiping her face quickly - she can't do much about her puffy eyes, but she doesn't want Chibi Usa to realize she's been crying if she can help it. "Chibi Usa-chan?" she says.
[20:46] * Rei-chan remains where she is as Usagi moves away, showing no visible reaction to the hasty departure. "Hello, Chibi Usa-chan," she smiles at the younger rabbit.
[20:46] <Anastasia> The girl looks up at you, her face a bit clouded. "Is something wrong, Mommy," she asks, coming up. "Were you and Rei-chan crying?"
[20:47] * Usagi-chan smiles at her surrogate daughter. "It's nothing you need to worry about, Chibi Usa-chan. I just had a rough day today, that's all."
[20:48] <Anastasia> She frowns even more. "Mommy... can I sleep with you tonight," she asks, looking up at you. She looks rather unsettled. "I had another nightmare, and..." she blushes. "Grandmom's changing the sheets, but..."
[20:48] * Usagi-chan nods. "I understand, Chibi Usa-chan. You can sleep with me tonight, I don't mind at all."
[20:50] <Anastasia> She nods. "Can we take a bath together, too?" she asks hopefully. "I need to wash my back, now..." From the lingering odor, she does, you note. "And... Mommy..."
[20:51] * Usagi-chan smiles. "We can. What else did you want, Chibi Usa-chan?" she asks gently.
[20:51] <Anastasia> "I... dreamed about a monster," she says quietly. "A monster was chasing me from under my bed, and he wouldn't stop."
[20:52] <Anastasia> The girl shivers. "I don't wanna see Rubeus again... or Petz or..." she says quietly.
[20:52] <Rei-chan> "They're all gone, Chibi Usa-chan. Forever," Rei says, her thoughts going more towards Beruche and Cooan...
[20:52] <Usagi-chan> "You won't ever have to worry about them again, Chibi Usa-chan," Usagi says, drawing the girl into her arms regardless of her damp clothing. "I won't let anyone hurt you ever again."
[20:53] <Anastasia> "Okay... not even that white monster?" she asks even quieter, barely audible to Rei. "He scares me the most, with that green haired lady and the sad blue man when I dream."
[20:54] * Usagi-chan tenses a bit at that, but hugs Chibi Usa a bit tighter a moment later. "Not even them, Chibi Usa-chan. No one at all - I'll always be there to protect you."
[20:56] <Anastasia> She returns the hug. "Thank you... I just want to stay here, Mommy, with you and Shingo-chan and Grandmother and Dad..."
[20:58] <Usagi-chan> "And I want you to stay with me too, Chibi Usa, for a long long time." Usagi gives the girl a kiss on the top of her head. "I love you a lot, Chibi Usa-chan."
[20:58] <Rei-chan> "Chibi Usa-chan..." Rei says gently, kneeling down. "Can you tell us about your dream?" she asks, knowing that they can have genuine relevance to real events from time to time.
[21:00] <Anastasia> "All those bad men and women were chasing me," she begins. "Rubeus, those sisters... and then that green girl, the blue man was with her... and that man in white was behind them, all dark and creepy," she says, clinging a bit closer to Usagi.
[21:00] * Rei-chan nods, deciding it isn't relevant to Zirae. "Don't worry, Chibi Usa-chan. The Black Moon is gone forever. None of them can ever come after you, now."
[21:01] * Usagi-chan nods at that. "They can't ever hurt you again," she agrees.
[21:01] <Anastasia> She nods to that, still clinging to Usagi. The smell is starting to be notable to Rei and Usagi now, the latter more so. "Let's go, Mommy," she says. "Can we go now to the bath?"
[21:02] * Usagi-chan smiles. "We sure can," she says, smiling as she picks the girl up. "Then you can come down and have some leftovers from dinner if you're hungry."
[21:03] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa nods, glancing at Rei. "Will Rei-chan eat over, too, Mommy?"
[21:03] <Rei-chan> "I already had dinner while you were asleep, Chibi Usa," Rei smiles, standing up. "But I'll wait here while you two have your bath."
[21:04] <Anastasia> She nods, glancing at Usagi. "Can we go now, Mommy?"
[21:04] * Usagi-chan gives Rei a grateful look, shifting Chibi Usa's weight a bit. "Come on, Chibi Usa, let's get you cleaned up." With that, she heads for the bathroom, her daughter in her arms.
[21:05] <Anastasia> As you climb the stairs up, "Mommy... I thought you were going to ask Rei-chan to come with us," she says quietly. "She's... she's like Daddy to you, and Mommy and Daddy liked to take baths together..." her voice is curious, but there is some pain there as well, too.
[21:07] * Usagi-chan almost stumbles at that, but maintains her poise remarkably. "Well... it's something we usually do when it's just me and her," Usagi explains, blushing a bit. "And I don't think there's enough room in our bathtub for three people, anyway."
[21:08] <Anastasia> She nods, quiet. "If... if you want Rei-chan to come with us, Mommy..." she whispers. "It's... okay. Rei-chan won't leave us, will she?"
[21:09] <Usagi-chan> "Rei-chan won't leave us," Usagi confirms. "I love her very much, and she loves me just as much back. And I know she loves you, too - she's just a little nervous sometimes because she knows she's not your Daddy."
[21:10] <Anastasia> She nods to that, quietly. "I miss Daddy... and..." she stops. "Puu-chan said I should call Rei Daddy now. But..."
[21:11] <Usagi-chan> "You can call Rei-chan whatever you want," Usagi says with a smile, setting the girl down so she can draw the bath. "If you want to call her Rei-chan or Daddy, that's up to you."
[21:12] <Anastasia> She nods, slipping out of her still damp and badly in need of a wash clothes, undergarments still outright wet coming off a moment later. "I... don't really know, Mommy, what I should call her?"
[21:13] * Usagi-chan begins to undress herself - she's a bit sticky after the hot afternoon at the ballpark, anyway. "Do you want to call her Daddy?" she asks gently.
[21:13] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa is silent, sitting plainly down. "I... just want to see Daddy again," she finally says. "Not Rei-chan."
[21:14] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa sniffles a bit. "She's not Daddy, but... she's with Mommy like Daddy is."
[21:17] * Usagi-chan nods. "I know it's hard to get used to, Chibi Usa-chan," Usagi says, picking the girl up before climbing into the tub with her. "There are a lot of things that are different here from home, but you're doing really well so far. I'm proud of you."
[21:18] <Anastasia> That gets a small smile, but her eyes are still sad and troubled. "Then... if you want me to... call Rei-chan Daddy... and take baths together... will we be happier and more together, Mommy?" The girl stumbles over it, not really sounding confident at all.
[21:19] <Usagi-chan> "It... could help, Chibi Usa-chan," Usagi replies, not really sure of the answer to that herself. "I know we'll all be very happy together as a family."
[21:21] <Anastasia> "Then.." Chibi Usa says quietly. "Could Daddy come up here with us? So we can be a family together right now, Mommy?"
[21:22] * Usagi-chan pauses for a moment. "If that's what you want," Usagi says. 'Rei-chan? Could you come up here?' she sends to the miko.
[21:22] <Rei-chan> 'Huh? Something wrong?' Rei asks.
[21:23] <Usagi-chan> 'Um... Chibi Usa wanted us to all take a bath together, as a family,' Usagi sends to her girlfriend.
[21:23] <Rei-chan> 'She does?' Rei thinks back, surprised. 'Um... sure. I'll be right up.'
[21:24] * Usagi-chan gives Chibi Usa a smile. "She'll be up in just a minute, Chibi Usa-chan."
[21:24] <Anastasia> She nods, moving in the tub to huggle into you. "We'll always be a family, all of us?" she asks. "Forever?"
[21:25] <Usagi-chan> "Always and forever," Usagi says with a smile, wrapping her arms around the little girl.
[21:26] <Rei-chan> The door opens at that to admit Rei, smiling a bit hesitantly at the two rabbits. "Hey... you wanted me to join you?"
[21:27] * Usagi-chan nods. "If you're up for a bath, sure," Usagi says. "I know I could sure use one after that stadium this afternoon."
[21:28] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa looks up, eyes conflicted. "Yes... D... Daddy..."
[21:28] <Rei-chan> "Of course," Rei replies, closing the door behind her as she starts to disrobe. She stumbles slightly at Chibi Usa's words, turning to the girl. "Chibi Usa-chan... why did you call me that?"
[21:29] <Anastasia> Looking up at Usagi, "Mommy and Daddy... we're a family," she says quietly, hugging onto Usagi even more. "A family forever, that won't leave any of us alone."
[21:30] <Usagi-chan> "We're all a family," Usagi agrees, keeping her arms around the pink-haired girl.
[21:32] <Rei-chan> Half-dressed, Rei sits by the edge of the tub. "Chibi Usa... I care about you and Usagi a lot, and I won't leave you. But you don't have to call me Daddy if it makes you uncomfortable. I don't mind you calling me just Rei-chan at all."
[21:33] * Usagi-chan nods. "It's like I said, Chibi Usa-chan - it's really up to you to decide what you want to do. We'll still love you no matter what you choose."
[21:33] <Anastasia> The girl nods but doesn't reply, just staying with Usagi. "Can... can you sit next to me on my other side, Rei-chan?" is all she asks. "Mommy and Daddy liked to let me fall asleep between them like that."
[21:35] <Rei-chan> Finishing stripping, Rei scrubs herself off before climbing into the bath. "I'm not your daddy, Chibi Usa, and I won't pretend to be - that's not fair to you or him," Rei says seriously. "But, that doesn't stop us from being a family..."
[21:38] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa just nods, curling up next to her two mothers. "I... just want to be in a family now," is all she says to that, closing her eyes. "Just falling asleep with my parents..."
[21:38] * Usagi-chan traces her fingers lightly over Chibi Usa's back, helping to soothe the girl with the gentle caress. "You are in a family now, Chibi Usa-chan," she says quietly.
[21:39] * Rei-chan nods. "All of us, together..." she adds, softly enough to not disturb the child.
[21:40] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa murmurs a bit at that, but soon quiets as she falls into a light, soul-restoring sleep...
[21:42] <Usagi-chan> "She does love you, Rei-chan," Usagi says quietly, trying not to disturb her rest. "I think she's still just getting used to all the differences between here and her home. It's got to be really hard for her."
[21:43] <Rei-chan> "I know," Rei nods. "She liked me well enough, before she knew about us... Things'll work out, in time."
[21:44] * Usagi-chan nods, looking up at Rei with a smile. "I'll keep her safe, Rei-chan," she says with determination. "I have to."
[21:45] <Rei-chan> "I know, Usagi. I know," Rei smiles, glad to see her love more upbeat.
[21:47] * Usagi-chan reaches over, taking Rei's hand under the water - enjoying the time with HER family.
[10:40] <Anastasia> ---
[10:43] <Anastasia> That Friday starts fairly good for Herb - classes are easy all around. It's when you get back to your car after your last swimming lesson that you find Ann sitting atop the hood lightly. Her school uniform is nowhere in sight, instead wearing a casual purple shirt and slacks,  sitting cross-legged. "Hey," she waves.
[10:44] <Prince_Herb> "Hi," Herb says. "What's up?"
[10:45] <Anastasia> "Got some time?" she asks. "I wanted to talk to you, Herb," she says, not quite smiling.
[10:46] <Prince_Herb> "I guess so," Herb says. "I'm not doing anything right now."
[10:51] <Anastasia> She nods. "Why don't get some tea," she suggests, blinking and appearing in the passenger seat of your car.
[10:52] * Prince_Herb laughs. "Tea is good. It's kind of cute when you do that teleporting thing rather than opening the door, you know?"
[10:53] * Prince_Herb gets in and drives Ann to a quiet teahouse he knows.
[10:53] <Anastasia> Ann smiles a bit at that, staying mostly quiet for the drive. On arrival, she makes a few glances around before you are seated, ordering simple green tea. "So... been busy, lately," she starts, venturing out.
[10:55] <Prince_Herb> "Yeah, pretty busy." Herb admits. "Are you feeling that I'm neglecting you?"
[10:58] <Anastasia> Ann smiles again. "Don't worry about it, I've been busy myself." At that, she leans forward, thoughtfully. "You come from China, don't you?"
[11:01] * Prince_Herb nods. "Up in the Bayankala mountains."
[11:03] <Anastasia> "Did you ever get wanderlust from there? To just go out and see all you could," she asks carefully, eyeing you as the tea arrives. "Not to be pinned down in one place, but to see as much as there is to see?"
[11:06] <Prince_Herb> "Sometimes. Sometimes I do. Even more now that I know that there are planets and galaxies out there filled with wonders. I'm not free to go, though. I have duties." Herb says. "Someday, when the troubles here are over, and I can take a leave of absence, I want to go and see Draco at least, to see if there's anyone still there."
[11:07] * Prince_Herb pauses. "As it is, though, even a weekend in Hawaii seems out of the question."
[11:08] <Anastasia> Ann nods to that, sipping her cup of tea. "Yeah. See new things, meet new people... all of that. This is a wonderfully vibrant and alive planet, isn't it?"
[11:09] <Prince_Herb> "It is that." Herb says. "I can feel the ki, the lifeforce all around me."
[11:10] <Anastasia> Smiling. "It's clear why the Tree wanted us to come to this planet, anyway." Pausing again. "I also feel that, wanting to meet new people, to be free just to go where I please right now."
[11:12] <Prince_Herb> "Then you should grasp the opportunity. Seize the day. Go for it." Herb says. "Don't feel that you need to wait for me to be free to join you."
[11:15] <Anastasia> Ann smiles a bit at that, relief playing across her face. "Yeah... Thanks for being understanding," she nods. "No hard feelings?"
[11:17] * Prince_Herb smiles. "Well, no. I think you're a super person, cute and sexy and all that, and I'd be honoured if you were my lover, and we could travel the universe together, drinking in the sights and sounds, but things around here have a way of working out in ways we don't expect."
[11:18] <Prince_Herb> "You have to follow your own path, though, whatever happens."
[11:21] <Anastasia> Smiling and patting your hand a moment, "Yeah." Rising simply. "I'll see you around, then. Don't get yourself killed, alright?"
[11:23] <Prince_Herb> "My dear Ann, that's the last thing I'll do." Herb says. "And don't you do it either."
[11:24] <Prince_Herb> "And take care! SOme of those guys out there are sharks."
[11:24] <Anastasia> "I won't," she smirks a bit. "And I'll be careful." At that, she leaves, having left a 1000 yen note for her bill.
[11:25] * Prince_Herb sighs inwardly and goes to pay the bill and then heads home. "Well, that's that. Time to go home and be pitied by my cat again."
[10:02] <Anastasia> ---
[10:04] <Anastasia> It's been a helluva week for Ami. Between being neck deep in the Zirae things and hearing about all the gossip going on with her friends, she's almost a wreck by Friday. Things look to get different as well, when she gets a note at the start of first period to come to Professor Tomoe's office ASAP.
[10:07] * Ami-chan leaves immediately for the Headmaster's office, curiously wondering what's happening now... hoping just a little that the Professor has had an insight into the data they've gathered.
[10:09] <Anastasia> On arriving there, Eudial is sitting in her lab coat and short skirt outfit as always, Professor Tomoe behind his desk. Viluy isn't here, though if what you heard about her and Haruka is true, that's no surprise. "Ami," he nods as you enter. "Eudial, Usagi and Rei got some more readings on Zirae yesterday."
[10:11] * Ami-chan raises her eyebrows. "They did? Has it been reviewed yet?" She asks, mentally preparing for news or work, whichever might follow.
[10:13] <Anastasia> "Only briefly, as I wanted all three of us to take them fresh in the morning." At that, he nods. "The relevant printouts are in the lab, we'll go as soon as everyone has had breakfast and prepared. I've already sent notes to your teachers, Ami."
[10:14] * Ami-chan nods, smiling slightly, and preapring herself for another long stretch of investigation, hoping they find something more concrete this time.
[10:14] <Anastasia> After a short meal of from the cafeteria food - at least it's not bad by standards, a good thing since you eat there so much lately - you head to the lab. Tons of printouts and readings are awaiting you...
[10:15] * Ami-chan sighs a little at the sheer volume of it, but sets her jaw, and prepares to wade through the material.
[10:16] <Anastasia> OOC - Mind check at +1, all of ye.
[10:16] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[10:16] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[10:16] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[10:16] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[10:18] <Ami-chan> roll 2d6
[10:18] * Hatbot --> "Ami-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[10:21] <Anastasia> The three of you pore over the documents, working and working. Soon enough, all three of you are drawn to the energy bursts again. There are FAR more this time, getting a frown from Professor Tomoe. "That's amazing," he says quietly.
[10:22] * Ami-chan looks up at the sound of the Professor's voice. "Did you find something?" She asks, giving her eyes a momentary break as she looks at him.
[10:23] <Anastasia> He nods, Eudial looking over as well. "This amount of bursting shouldn't be possible with a normal portal, no matter how large," he says thoughtfully. "The interface of interdimensional mass prevents it."
[10:29] * Ami-chan nods, re-examining her printouts. "The question is... how is he managing it?" she muses. "Power alone wouldn't do that... could it?" she adds, looking for clues in the endless numbers.
[10:31] <Anastasia> Tomoe shakes his head. "It shouldn't be possible even projecting an alternate reality - this is a spillover between the two, so it shouldn't be affected by it."
[10:31] <Anastasia> He frowns at that, thinking. "There is only one thing that I can think of that might cause such an effect," he goes on, quietly.
[10:32] * Ami-chan blinks, looking up again. "You have an idea?"
[10:38] <Anastasia> HE nods, solemnly. "I... when I was researching the possibility of two worlds combining due to Shadow Tokyo, one of my observations was that such an event - two worlds meeting - could generate this level of bursting interference."
[10:38] * Ami-chan thinks that over for a moment. "Are you suggesting... he's a kind of... sentient bridge between worlds?"
[10:39] <Ami-chan> "Or has managed to harness it, somehow?"
[10:42] <Anastasia> "I don't know," he says, thinking. "I need some more readings of his underlying power to make any sort of intelligent guess, I'm afraid."
[10:45] * Ami-chan lets out a breath and nods. "Hopefully the answer is in here, somewhere..." she says, smiling at him as she gestures to the readouts.
[10:45] <Anastasia> He nods again. "Let's get back to work, then," Eudial murmurs, taking out her glasses.
[10:48] * Ami-chan nods, lifting up her papers again, and diving back into the numbers, mentally sorting out the raw material...
[10:48] <Anastasia> OOC - Mind checks +2 for all, again.
[10:48] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[10:48] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[10:48] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[10:48] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[10:49] <Ami-chan> roll 2d6+2 burning 20 EP
[10:49] * Hatbot --> "Ami-chan rolls 2d6+2 burning 20 EP and gets 10."
[10:50] <Anastasia> The day goes on, the group working away. Besides a nasty paper cut Ami gets my accident, no further breakthroughs are made. It's largely the same as the last body of readings...
[10:55] * Ami-chan takes off her glasses and rubs the bridge of her nose. 'There has to be -something- I'm not seeing...' She sighs, and skims them again, bearing in mind the previous readings, and looks solely for any differences she can see...
[10:55] <Anastasia> OOC - Mind checks +4
[10:56] <Ami-chan> roll 2d6+4 burning 30 EP
[10:56] * Hatbot --> "Ami-chan rolls 2d6+4 burning 30 EP and gets 9."
[11:01] <Anastasia> Going over and over it... dammit! THe information you have just isn't giving you any more. You need different readings, not just these ones you have.
[11:04] * Ami-chan groans softly, laying her head on the paper in frustration. "I feel like I'm reading a book with the last pages torn out."
[11:05] <Anastasia> Eudial curses softly at that, nodding. "Yeah, this isn't giving us jack shit," she agrees.
[11:06] <Ami-chan> "And we can't even reason out what is missing... we don't know enough about him to even guess by inference..."
[11:07] <Anastasia> "Indeed," Tomoe sighs, taking off his glasses. "As it stands, we need more readings to fill in the blanks."
[11:08] * Ami-chan nods. "The trouble is, we don't know what we're looking for, so scanning for it becomes even more frustrating and time consuming..."
[11:10] <Anastasia> He nods, glancing upa t a wall clock. "It's past noon," he observes. "Eating time indeed. Let's break for lunch... somewhere besides in the cafeteria of Mugen," he says, scowling a bit. "I'm sick of eating leftovers from lunch periods."
[11:12] <Anastasia> Eudial smiles at that. "It would be nice to get out of this gloom for awhile," she agrees, glancing at Ami.
[11:14] * Ami-chan feels her stomach growl at that, and nods, blushing. "Alright..." she agrees, looking to the others.
[11:15] <Anastasia> At that, the three of you head out. Eudial makes as if she's going to drive, but Professor Tomoe asserts himself quite forcefully, politely insisting that he'll drive. In his new car in the back seat, the drive is pleasant enough and takes only a few minutes before you get to a sushi house.
[11:18] * Ami-chan smiles, slipping out of the car, feeling somewhat cheerful as she's arrived in one piece, having dodged the bullet that is Eudial's vehicle. Smiling up at the atmosphere from being out in the sunlight now, she waits for the other two before going in.
[11:26] <Anastasia> It's a nice place - skylights for more sunshine, traditional Japanese setup and such. Getting inside, you are seated at a low-lying table quickly. "Ah," Eudial sighs. "It's good to be out of there."
[11:27] * Ami-chan smiles wryly. "We are getting kind of pale, aren't we?"
[11:28] <Anastasia> Tomoe smiles at that, as the waitress comes. "We should try doing our work outside sometime," he says. "A small bottle of sake, another for Eudial, and... Ami, what do you want to drink?"
[11:30] <Ami-chan> "Tea, please." Ami asks, smothering a slight yawn. "As caffeinated as possible..."
[11:31] <Anastasia> The waitress nods, Eudial nodding. "Probably as well," Tomoe comments. "A single drink of sake with sushi might not bother us, but for your smaller frame it could be quite problematic."
[11:33] * Ami-chan blushes a little at that, for no reason she can discern, and shakes it off. "It's probably not to have my first taste of alcohol at a restaurant." She agrees.
[11:34] <Anastasia> Eudial grins at that. "You've never drank? You should have just a sip of mine, then," she asserts. "It's fun if you have some in moderation."
[11:35] * Ami-chan smiles. "Thanks, but I'd rather not find out I get tipsy easily in public." she giggles.
[11:36] <Anastasia> "It's alright, Ami," Eudial prods you a bit. "If you get tispy off a single sip of sake, I'll personally fill you up with coffee and smack ya around."
[11:36] <Anastasia> Professor Tomoe smiles at bit at the verbal play, but stays silent for now.
[11:41] <Ami-chan> Ami raises an eyebrow. "That's not exactly an enticement..." she observes with a slight smile. "Well, I suppose a sip wouldn't hurt..." she adds slowly. "I hope."
[11:42] <Anastasia> "It won't," she nods quickly, as the waitress comes back. Taking the small bottle and the saucer, she pours just a bit into it. "Here, just gun it down at once," Eudial recommends.
[11:43] * Ami-chan blinks, taking the saucer uncertainly, then lifts it to her mouth, and quickly pours the liquid down her throat.
[11:43] <Anastasia> It races down your throat, a strangely burning sensation as your head spins a bit. Just a bit, mind, but you felt that like fire...
[11:44] * Ami-chan coughs violently, her cheeks pinking lightly at the sudden heat. "Aah..."
[11:45] <Anastasia> "Hey there," Eudial says quickly. "Wasn't THAT bad, was it? The first one can go down a bit rough, but it gets easier from there."
[11:50] * Ami-chan hands the saucer back to Eudial, eyeing the saucer warily, the slight dizziness pleasant, in a strange way. "Just... not used to it, I guess." Ami coughs lightly again, smiling a little, embarrassed.
[11:52] <Anastasia> Professor Tomoe nods, sipping his own drink. "A bit of it can be relaxing and feel good, yes. It's just that when taken to excess," he idly glances at Eudial, who returns it with a bit of a playful glare, "It causes problems."
[11:54] <Anastasia> "Hey," she smiles a bit. "I'm not going to get Ami drunk! Just enough to get her to loosen up a bit and have some fun!"
[11:54] * Ami-chan blinks, suprised. "Loosen up?"
[11:56] <Anastasia> "Yeah, to kick back and have some fun out here," she nods. "You're always so quiet and into your work, Ami."
[11:56] * Ami-chan begins to blush again, wondering if Usagi has possessed Eudial somehow. "What's wrong with that?"
[11:57] <Anastasia> "Nothing, sometimes," Eudial banters right back. "But you should cut loose sometimes, you know? Have some fun, meet some guys, dance some! Enjoy yourself!"
[11:57] <Anastasia> "Ahem," Professor Tomoe says lightly. "This is a work lunch, Eudial, not a night out on the town."
[12:01] * Ami-chan flushes again, Eudial's comment combined with the Professor's presence kicking her memory into replaying the previous session with readings. "Mm." She murmurs, falling quiet, grateful to be off the topic.
[12:02] <Anastasia> Eudial calms a bit at that, nodding. "Right, right. Still, though... don't you think Ami should cut loose more, Professor?"
[12:04] * Ami-chan winces.
[12:05] <Anastasia> "Well..." he pauses a moment. "Ami's fine the way she is. Not everyone has to be so... loud as you are, Eudial," is his response.
[12:08] * Ami-chan gives him a grateful look, the embarrassment ebbing slightly. "I seem to be getting variants on that from all sides, lately. Usagi has been after me to 'relax' as well..."
[12:09] <Anastasia> "Don't listen to them," Professor Tomoe says, shooting Eudial a look that reads 'shut up'. "You are fine the way you are, Ami."
[12:11] <Anastasia> Eudial just goes quiet at that, sipping her own saucer. "I guess, Ami." she concedes. "You don't need to totally go crazy."
[12:13] * Ami-chan smiles wryly. "Everyone would worry if I did." she replies, amused, but relaxing some.
[12:14] <Anastasia> "Indeed," he nods. "If Hotaru ever started dressing in mini tops and shorts and staying out late, I'd go mad with worry."
[12:16] * Ami-chan boggles a little at that mental image. "Hotaru-chan doesn't seem like the type, though." Ami replies.
[12:18] <Anastasia> Eudial snickers at that, nodding. "No kidding! It's hard to see her in anything more revealing than a school uniform or temple robes these days."
[12:19] * Ami-chan raises an eyebrow at Eudial. "Well, she -is- a little young for more revealing clothes..." she points out.
[12:20] <Anastasia> Professor Tomoe gags a little at an image, but nods. At that, your food arrives, a few platters of sashimi and sushi.
[12:23] * Ami-chan spends a few minutes nursing her tea before moving on to her food, idly musing on Eudial's assertion as she eats, trying to avoid thinking of the readings for now.
[12:24] <Anastasia> A fairly comfortable silence spreads out as all eat, the food good and the meal nice. Soon enough, it's over, however. "Not too bad," Eudial muses. "Better than the cafeteria."
[12:25] * Ami-chan nods. "Especially Tuesday's mystery meat." she adds, wincing at the memory.
[12:26] <Anastasia> Professor Tomoe chuckles warmly. "Really that bad? I'll send word for them not to make that anymore, Ami."
[12:28] <Anastasia> "Do," Eudial grimaces herself. "I think they were aiming for something-yaki and it didn't work out. Pork cutlets, maybe."
[12:28] * Ami-chan smiles gratefully, and returns her attention to her plate, and spreading a small amount of wasabi, continues to eat...
[12:32] <Anastasia> Shaking his head and letting that matter drop, "How is your mother doing, Eudial? I don't go down to the shop area very often these days."
[12:34] <Anastasia> "She's doing fine," Eudial nods back, falling into simple conversation. "Not much to say - she's been working on a new car she bought all month, and won't even let me help. Wants to do it all herself or something," she shrugs.
[12:37] * Ami-chan nods, listening to the conversation as she finishes eating. "Your mother is a mechanic too?" She asks curiously.
[12:38] <Anastasia> "Yeah, she works at Mugen here in the shop department," Eudial nods. "She's into cars and stuff, just like me."
[12:40] * Ami-chan shakes her head. "I missed that... maybe I -should- look up from my books more often..."
[12:42] <Anastasia> Tomoe smiles. "Maybe just a little bit."
[12:45] * Ami-chan blushes, nodding a little. "When I'm not as busy." She decides, turning back to her tea.
[12:51] <Anastasia> The conversation fades again, all parties enjoying themselves a bit more. "You want anymore of this, Ami," Eudial offers. "I have a bit left."
[12:56] <Ami-chan> Ami smiles, embarrassed. "No thanks." she murmurs. "One sip suggested I may not have I high tolerance for this sort of thing."
[12:56] <Anastasia> "Sure?" she offers, "Another sip won't kill you."
[12:57] * Ami-chan nods. "I'm sure. We do have work to do..." She smiles. "Thank you, though."
[12:59] <Anastasia> Shrugging, Eudial finishes her meal. Soon enough, the check is paid and work begins again...

[09:57] <Anastasia> ---
[10:01] <Anastasia> After the events of Thursday, Saturday seems like a dream. Going through the motions at your half day of school, Rei is soon at home at the Shrine, Hotaru having come with her as always. Thus, the afternoon starts, warm and humid as you go about your miko duties.
[10:04] <Anastasia> An hour or so passes of this - nothing of note, really, a steady flow of visitors keeping the two of you busy. Until, as you are just finishing talking with a couple of schoolboys visiting, you glance up towards Hotaru. In the center of the courtyard a man in white stands, another familiar face...(OOC - Soul check +1)
[10:04] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6+1
[10:04] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6+1 and gets 12."
[10:04] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[10:04] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[10:06] <Anastasia> Blink. Blinking a bit at the sunlight, Rei resumes her sweeping without note, her day unaffected for a second. That's how long it takes to note Hotaru is lying against the wall of the Shrine, a dent crater impact there. Her violet aura is flickering visibly around herself, but yet weakly. A bit of blood comes from her mouth as she coughs, her entire prone body shaking.
[10:07] * Rei-chan drops her broom. "Hotaru!" she cries, running over to the little girl.
[10:08] <Anastasia> The various visitors to the Shrine all turn and gawk as you run, staring at the downed miko-in-training. "Rei-chan," she looks up at you, violet eyes unfocused. "You're safe, Rei-chan?" AFter that, a second cough hits the girl, rocking her again.
[10:09] <Rei-chan> "I am, but what about you?" Rei asks, picking the girl up to carry her inside. 'Usagi!' she mentally sends to her girlfriend.
[10:09] <Usagi-chan> 'Rei?' Usagi sends back a moment later.
[10:10] <Rei-chan> 'Get to the Shrine, now! Hotaru's hurt!' Rei sends without preamble as she takes Hotaru in to her bedroom.
[10:10] <Anastasia> Any reply is lost in a fit of coughing, the bystanders murmuring amoungst themselves and shivering at this bizzare sight. As you carry her in, you can hear murmuring about 'I heard this place was cursed.' and similar speculations.
[10:11] * Rei-chan winces, but can't really deal with that sort of thing right now. Hotaru's health being a far more important concern. "It's okay, Hotaru-chan," she soothes gently. "Usagi'll be here soon and she'll heal you."
[10:11] <Usagi-chan> 'I'll be there in just a minute,' Usagi sends back. A few moments later, Usagi appears in Rei's bedroom with a flash of light, Chibi Usa in her arms. "What happened?" she says quickly, setting her daughter down.
[10:12] <Rei-chan> "I don't know," Rei shakes her head, extremely worried as she sets Hotaru down on her bed. "I was just sweeping and then I looked and saw her lying in a crater against the wall like this."
[10:13] <Anastasia> "That man... from before," Hotaru says between a cough, a bit of blood coming from her mouth. "Rei-chan, he was going to hurt you..." she whispers weakly.
[10:14] <Rei-chan> "Zirae was here?" Rei asks, her alarm climbing several notches. "Just... wait until Usagi heals you. Try not to talk just yet," she urges through her rising panic.
[10:14] * Usagi-chan places her hands on the sides of Hotaru's face. "Shh, just take it easy, Hotaru-chan," Usagi says soothingly. "I'll get you fixed up." She closes her eyes, focusing as she chants the words of the Lunarian healing spell.
[10:15] <Anastasia> (OOC - Soul check +6 for something unrelated to your spell, Usagi.)
[10:16] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6+6
[10:16] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6+6 and gets 18."
[10:17] <Anastasia> Casting the magic, soothing light flows into Hotaru. Her aura strengthens from this, her body seeming to improve slightly. "Hotaru-chan?" Chibi Usa asks quietly, working her way over to be by the girl's side. "Mommy will make you alright, okay?"
[10:18] * Usagi-chan holds the magic as long as she can, giving as much strength to the injured girl as she can.
[10:19] <Anastasia> While still coughing after that, the cough is less severe and not bloody. "Sister... he... he wanted you, Rei-chan! He was going to take you away! I... I..." she closes her eyes.
[10:19] * Usagi-chan lets the magic fade, stroking her fingers through Hotaru's hair gently. "Just rest now, Hotaru-chan - Rei-chan is safe now."
[10:20] <Rei-chan> "Shh..." Rei soothes her, "Just take it easy, Hotaru-chan. You can tell me when you feel better." She stifles her curiousity for now, looking out for her little sister's welfare more important than anything else.
[10:20] <Anastasia> The girl nods, starting to turn and curl up into a fetal position. "I don't want to... I don't want to be her, Rei-chan..."
[10:20] * Usagi-chan glances over at Rei, one eyebrow raised.
[10:21] <Rei-chan> "It's alright, Hotaru-chan," Rei soothes. 'She means Sailor Saturn, Usagi.' "You don't have to be anything you don't want to be." Leaning over, she kisses the girl's forehead. "Please forgive me. I should have been able to protect you."
[10:22] <Usagi-chan> 'I know, Rei - I'm just surprised is all. She must have transformed to fight Zirae if he was here.' She moves back, giving Hotaru's hand a reassuring squeeze.
[10:23] <Anastasia> Hotaru just nods. "Don't want to be," she repeats, closing her eyes. Whatever happened must've taken a good deal of energy out of her, for she is asleep moments afterwards - perhaps passed out is a better phrasing.
[10:25] * Rei-chan draws the blanket over Hotaru and rises. "I'll have to call Professor Tomoe, now..." she says, not looking forward to telling him how his daughter was hurt under her 'care' at all. "Dammit... I can't believe he came here and I couldn't do a thing!" she curses quietly.
[10:26] <Usagi-chan> "Don't blame yourself, Rei-chan," Usagi says, rising to her own feet. "You know how powerful he is - he must have caught you off guard."
[10:26] * Rei-chan shakes her head. "It's no excuse. I should be ready at any time," she replies bitterly, starting off towards the phone and dialing the Tomoe residence.
[10:26] <Anastasia> "Mommy," Chibi Usa speaks up. Turning to her, you note she's shivering a bit. "Can Rei-chan turn down the air conditioning?" Of note, it's on the warm side in the room, not the other way around.
[10:27] * Usagi-chan frowns. "Are you cold, Chibi Usa-chan?" she says, kneeling down next to the girl. "It seems pretty warm in here to me."
[10:27] <Rei-chan> "We don't have air conditioning here, Chibi Usa-chan," Rei says from the door.
[10:28] <Anastasia> The phone to Professor Tomoe's residence rings several times before the maid picks up, telling you that he's at work.
[10:28] <Rei-chan> Thanking the maid, Rei hangs up before calling Tomoe's lab.
[10:28] <Anastasia> "It's cold, though. I can't stop shivering," she complains, doing the former quite prolifically.
[10:28] <Anastasia> The phone rings twice before Eudial picks up. "Yeah?"
[10:29] <Rei-chan> "Hi, Eudial. It's Rei," Rei answers, her tone clearly unhappy. "Is the Professor there?"
[10:29] * Usagi-chan wraps her arms around Chibi Usa. "I'll warm you up, okay?" She frowns, wondering what could be making Chibi Usa so cold.
[10:30] <Anastasia> "No, Rei. He's going to the Shrine already. We were working over those readings again just now, but our machines picked up new ones, along with Sailor Saturn's." The redhead's voice is rather worried. "Rei, what happened? She got Zirae to crack again before her energy fell off the scales. Is she alright?"
[10:31] <Anastasia> The girl nods, getting into your arms. She feels perfectly warm to you, though, even with her shivers.
[10:31] <Rei-chan> "She's okay now - Usagi healed her," Rei winces. "I missed the entire thing. One minute I was sweeping, the next Hotaru was lying there..."
[10:31] * Usagi-chan frowns, checking Chibi Usa's aura. Perhaps it's some aftereffect of Zirae's presence here?
[10:33] <Anastasia> Biting off a soft curse, "Good, at least Hotaru is safe. The Professor went out of here like crazy - I'm worried that he was expecting the worst or near to it."
[10:33] <Rei-chan> "She should have just hidden or something..." Rei says bitterly, "She stayed and fought to protect me."
[10:36] <Anastasia> "Yeah," Is Eudial's simple reply. "Look, just make sure she's alright, I need to get back to looking over these new readings."
[10:36] <Rei-chan> "She's resting now. I'll watch over her." Rei sighs, "Bye, Eudial," and hangs up, returning to her bedroom.
[10:37] <Anastasia> Glancing up at Rei and still shivering, "Can't you make it warmer in here, Rei-chan?" she asks, even in her mother's arms she still convulses slightly with some sort of cold.
[10:38] <Rei-chan> "I can if you want, Chibi Usa," Rei says, doing just that with her magic around the girl. "It's not cold, though..." she leans down to touch the girl's forehead, checking her body temperature.
[10:38] <Anastasia> Usagi - 2d6+2 soul check.
[10:38] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6+2
[10:38] * Shai`Hulud --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6+2 and gets 10."
[10:39] <Anastasia> Usagi frowns at she sees Chibi Usa's aura. The Crystal and her seem visibly close, almost completely intertwined here, yet the Crystal's energy is resonating.
[10:40] * Usagi-chan narrows her eyes, trying to see if she can determine what's making the Crystal's energy react this way.
[10:40] <Anastasia> Usagi - 2d6+4 soul check.
[10:40] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6+4
[10:40] * Shai`Hulud --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6+4 and gets 13."
[10:41] <Anastasia> You can't tell, but the resonations in the Crystal/Chibi Usa's energy are slowly calming. As you do this, "Thanks, Rei-chan," the girl murmurs.
[10:41] <Rei-chan> "You're welcome," Rei replies, going to sit by the bed and watch over Hotaru.
[10:42] * Usagi-chan strokes Chibi Usa's hair gently. "Glad you're feeling better now, Chibi Usa-chan," she says, a slightly worried edge to her tone.
[10:44] <Anastasia> The next fifteen minutes pass without incident, the resonations slowing and halting during this time. Until, that is, you hear someone coming at a half run. Moments later, the expected guest quickly opens the door to Rei's room, likely violating a few rules about not barging into a lady's room unannounced. Going to the bed, "Is Hotaru safe?" he asks quickly to Rei.
[10:45] <Rei-chan> "She's resting, now," Rei tells him guiltily. "She looked like she'd been knocked around a bit, but Usagi healed her."
[10:46] <Anastasia> He barely nods, kneeling next to his daughter and checking her over quickly. At this, he lets out a deep breath. "Thank God. I was worried when her energy just faded off the charts like that."
[10:47] * Rei-chan nods. "She must have transformed to protect me..." shaking her head, she lets out a long, stress filled sigh, "I just can't believe how helpless I was. I'd probably be dead or worse right now if not for her..."
[10:50] <Anastasia> "Yes," Professor Tomoe admits. "Zirae was here, and as far as I can tell, only Saturn's power got him to leave."
[10:51] <Rei-chan> "Saturn was always said to be the most powerful of us, back in the Silver Millenium..." Rei recites from memory. "Considering her state, she must have given twice as good as she got to drive him off."
[10:53] <Anastasia> "It would match the energy output readings," he murmurs, running a hand across Hotaru's forehead. "She gave off a massive spread energy attack on him, all focused on Zirae."
[10:55] <Rei-chan> "We'll find out exactly what happens when she wakes up... although that probably won't be for a few hours," Rei says. "I'm just glad she's okay, now."
[10:58] <Anastasia> An hour and half passes, all concerned waiting on the little firefly to stir and waken. She does so finally, her aura almost back to normal now. "Mmmm... Daddy? Big sis? Usagi-chan?" she asks, rubbing her eyes.
[10:58] <Rei-chan> "Hey, little sister," Rei smiles warmly at Hotaru. "How are you feeling?"
[10:59] * Usagi-chan smiles. "Hey, Hotaru-chan - feeling better now?"
[11:00] <Anastasia> "Good afternoon, Hotaru," Tomoe smiles. "Are you feeling better?"
[11:01] <Anastasia> The little girl sits up, still blinking. "I feel alright," she says. "Did... Did I get sunstroke, Rei-chan? I don't remember taking a nap."
[11:01] <Rei-chan> "Don't you remember?" Rei asks, a bit of worry creeping in, "Zirae came here - you protected me from him."
[11:04] <Anastasia> Hotaru blinks, then pales dramatically. Lying back down quickly, she closes her eyes and doesn't reply. "You're alright, Rei-chan..." she does say, finally.
[11:04] <Rei-chan> "I am," Rei nods quickly. "And so are you. That's what matters."
[11:05] * Usagi-chan nods in agreement. "You did a good job, Hotaru-chan," Usagi says quietly.
[11:05] <Anastasia> "That's right, Hotaru. You did a wonderful job of protecting Rei and the Shrine." Nodding with Rei and Usagi, he smiles at her.
[11:06] <Anastasia> The girl sighs at that, "But... I... he said he was going to take you, Rei-chan!"
[11:06] <Usagi-chan> "Take her?" Usagi says worriedly, glancing over at Rei.
[11:06] <Rei-chan> "Did he say why he wanted to take me?" Rei asks, wondering why he wouldn't just kill her and be done with it.
[11:09] <Anastasia> "He... he said something about you being strong enough to resist him with that other girl he wanted..." Hotaru says quietly. "I coudln't let him take you, Rei..."
[11:09] * Usagi-chan sighs at that, looking very tired all of a sudden.
[11:10] * Rei-chan hugs Hotaru. "You protected me, little sister. It should be the other way around, but I'm grateful anyway," she says sincerely.
[11:13] <Anastasia> Opening her eyes and smiling very slightly, "Thanks, Rei," she says, before turning away.
[11:15] * Rei-chan looks a bit downcast. "I know you don't want to be Sailor Saturn, and you had to because of me... I'm sorry, Hotaru-chan. I won't let this happen again."
[11:34] <Anastasia> Shaking his head, "We'll go home when you're ready, Hotaru." The girl gives a quiet murmur at that, staying to herself.
[11:35] <Usagi-chan> "One thing before you go, Professor," Usagi finally says.
[11:35] * Rei-chan stands up. "I'll see you tomorrow, Hotaru-chan?" she asks hopefully, hoping the girl just needs some time to herself to think things over.
[11:36] <Anastasia> "Hm," he turns to Usagi. "We can talk outside if you want."
[11:36] * Usagi-chan nods, getting to her feet. "Wait here with Rei-chan and Hotaru-chan for a minute, Chibi Usa."
[11:37] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa just nods that, submitting to her mother's wishes.
[11:38] * Usagi-chan follows the Professor outside. "One thing I noticed just after we got here - and I don't know if it'll mean anything to you or not. Chibi Usa was complaining that she felt cold even though it was warm inside the Shrine, and when I checked her, the Crystal inside her seemed like it was almost vibrating somehow. It faded out after a few minutes though."
[11:40] <Anastasia> At that, Tomoe frowns. "It's possible it was an afteraffect of all the energy lingering here. Did the Crystal ever react to the powers of the other Senshi?"
[11:41] <Usagi-chan> "Not that I ever noticed when I had it," Usagi says. "I'm guessing it's got something to do with Zirae - Chibi Usa's crystal hasn't ever done that around Hotaru before, so that's the only thing I can figure was causing it."
[11:44] <Anastasia> He nods. "Since he's seeking it, I suppose it's viable that he'd cause a reaction from it," he says, at a loss for any other easy explanation.
[11:45] <Usagi-chan> "Like I said, I don't know if it means anything useful or not," Usagi says, frowning a bit. "But I figured you should know about it, at least."
[11:46] <Anastasia> "I'll bear it in mind when I look over the readings we got for today," he agrees, pushing up his glasses. "IN a way, this is the break we needed. I think we got some better readings this time, this should fill some holes."
[11:47] * Usagi-chan smiles wanly. "Good luck with that, Professor. I just hope we can deal with Zirae soon - I'm getting tired of watching over my shoulder all the time."
[11:48] <Anastasia> "As do I, Usagi," is his reply. "As do I."
[11:56] <Anastasia> As Usagi and Professor Tomoe leave, Rei is left alone with a quiet, withdrawn Hotaru...
[11:59] <Anastasia> The girl lets a quiet settle in, lost in her own thoughts at the moment. But, yet, by her troubled expression of fear and confusion, her pretty face is scrunched into something unpleasant.
[12:02] <Rei-chan> "Hotaru-chan..." Rei puts a comforting hand on the girl's shoulder. "Do you want to talk about it?"
[12:03] <Anastasia> Her shoulder is warm under your touch, her loosened miko robes spread about the bed. "I... don't want to become her again, Rei-chan. I don't want to hurt people and hurt my friends..." she says in a half choked whisper.
[12:04] <Rei-chan> "You won't, Hotaru-chan," Rei soothes. "You don't have to be Sailor Saturn if you don't want to, but even if you are, you won't hurt your friends. You protected me, after all, didn't you?"
[12:06] <Anastasia> "I could have, Rei-chan," she says quietly. "I... Saturn... is..."
[12:08] <Rei-chan> "Saturn is...?" Rei prompts, having an idea, but wanting to hear it in Hotaru's own words.
[12:10] <Anastasia> "She... reminds me of her," Hotaru says. "Of Mistress 9, Rei-chan. She just wants to hurt and destroy things... things I care about."
[12:11] <Rei-chan> "Why does she want to do that?" Rei asks, hiding her surprise as best she can - no sense upsetting Hotaru even more.
[12:13] <Anastasia> "She just does," is Hotaru's eloquent reply. "I think Saturn's a monster, just like Germatou and all those... those things were." Pressing her face into the pillow supporting her, "No wonder they wanted me to be their Messiah... I'm a monster," her voice is quiet, sinking into despair as she speaks.
[12:15] <Rei-chan> "No you aren't," Rei says, her voice firm but gentle as she lifts Hotaru's face up to look at her. "You're my little sister Hotaru, and you'd never want to hurt anyone - the fact that you're this worried speaks volumes of that."
[12:18] <Anastasia> With her dark eyes speaking of emotional upset, "But... Rei-chan, if I let myself turn into her again, I might hurt you," she pleads. "I might hurt a lot of people. I can feel that, Rei!"
[12:21] <Rei-chan> "You won't," Rei replies earnestly. "Saturn might want those bad things, but you aren't Saturn. I... I don't have any problems like that with Mars, so I can't truly understand what you're going through," she admits, "But I know you. And Hotaru Tomoe isn't the kind of person who would do those things. Do you want to hurt people. Hotaru?"
[12:22] <Anastasia> "No, Rei-chan, but she does. And..." her voice breaks. "I'm her, you said. That means, that... if I ever do..." Looking away, "I won't want to stay if I hurt you or Daddy, Rei-chan."
[12:24] <Rei-chan> "She's part of you, Hotaru - you can't deny that," Rei concedes. "In a way, denying it just makes it worse - she can surprise you, then. But... maybe if you can come to an understanding? You could wind up like her, if you let it happen. But the reverse is true as well."
[12:26] <Anastasia> "But she's so strong, sister," Hotaru whimpers. "She's much stronger than I am, like a daimon. How could I change her?"
[12:28] * Rei-chan shakes her head. "She might want you to think that way, but it's not true. This is YOUR life, Hotaru. Not hers," the miko says earnestly. "She can't do anything unless you let her. Just have faith in yourself..." she smiles, brushing a lock of Hotaru's hair, "I do."
[12:31] <Anastasia> "If it is, how come I don't control it half the time," she replies, looking at you with pain and hope.
[12:34] <Rei-chan> "Because you're scared and inexperienced," Rei suggests, beginning to draw a parallel here with Minako's excuse for going berserk in that battle at Channel 5. "Saturn understands how to use your power better than you do, so you let her take control and guide you. But if you knew exactly what to do yourself, you wouldn't need her. You'd be in complete control - which I think we both agree is a lot better."
[12:38] <Anastasia> Hotaru nods. "It would be... but how can I if she overwhelms me each time, Rei-chan?"
[12:39] <Rei-chan> "How many times have you transformed, Hotaru-chan?" Rei asks curiously, only knowing of two instances.
[12:41] <Anastasia> "Twice, Rei-chan," is her reply.
[12:42] * Rei-chan nods. "That one time right after we killed Germatou, and today?" she confirms.
[12:43] <Anastasia> Hotaru pauses at that. "No... I... didn't remember that first time, Rei-chan," she says quietly.
[12:45] * Rei-chan blinks. "You did - it was just for a few seconds and then you fainted. What was the other time, then?"
[12:49] <Anastasia> Hotaru is quiet. "I... it was a while back, Rei-chan. I was going home alone since Daddy was late and you were busy with Usagi-chan." she starts quietly.
[12:50] * Rei-chan nods. "And?" she prods gently.
[12:53] <Anastasia> "I ran into some of my old classmates and they started to pick on me," she says very quietly. "They threw rocks at me, Rei-chan, and called me a monster!"
[12:54] * Rei-chan frowns at that. "I'm sorry I wasn't there. You shouldn't have to put up with that kind of horrible treatment at all."
[12:55] <Anastasia> "I ran away, but I kept thinking about how angry it made me..." she goes on. "It made me so angry, Rei-chan... until..."
[12:55] <Rei-chan> "You transformed?"
[12:56] <Anastasia> She nods. "I... I got so angry, and then I was Sailor Saturn. I was going after them, Rei... but I passed out before I got back there."
[12:58] * Rei-chan breathes out in relief. "Good. It would have been terrible if you'd found them like that... even if they deserve some punishment, normal humans can't stand up to Sailor Senshi at all," she speaks from bitter experience. "Hotaru, I think if things like that can happen, it's all the more reason for you to practice and gain control. I know I said I wouldn't ask, but... we have to do something about this."
[13:03] <Anastasia> Hotaru sighs. "I... are you sure we have to, Rei-chan? I won't get angry any more, I promise."
[13:04] * Rei-chan wraps a comforting arm around Hotaru. "We all get angry, little sister. Did you ever hear about the time I set my old headmaster's desk on fire?" she smirks a little there. "Getting angry isn't necessarily a bad thing - you have to let it out sometimes. But we need to make sure that when you're angry, it's Hotaru and not Saturn that acts on it."
[13:07] <Anastasia> "..." Hotaru just looks at you. "I... can you promise, then, Rei-chan? That if I hurt people that you'll make sure I don't hurt anyone else? I don't want to be a monster again."
[13:09] <Rei-chan> "You won't, Hotaru-chan. I promise." Rei gives her a comforting squeeze. "I do understand what it's like to be scared of what you can do. But I got through it, and so will you. After that, you still don't have to become a Sailor if you don't want to, but you'll know when you do, that it's entirely for yourself and not for Saturn."
[13:11] <Anastasia> Hotaru is silent for a long while after that. "If... if you can, Rei-chan, I'll try. Just still promise that if I ever hurt any of you..."
[13:13] <Rei-chan> "Don't worry, Hotaru-chan. If you do, we'll stop you, just like Usagi stopped me when I was trying to hurt everybody," Rei says reassuringly. "How about tomorrow we go up to the Moon with Usagi and we can start practicing up there?"
[13:14] <Anastasia> Notaru just nods. "Okay, Rei-chan."
[13:15] * Rei-chan nods. "We'll get through this, Hotaru-chan. You'll see."
[08:31] <Anastasia> ---
[08:33] <Anastasia> The day after the Shrine attack, while Ami and that group works in Mugen, Usagi and Rei take one Hotaru Tomoe to the Moon. Dressed in her typical black with a purple trimmed shirt, the slightly scared girl looks like a piece of the Lunar sky cut out into a body.
[08:34] <Rei-chan> Arriving inside the palace, Rei leads the other two out onto the Lunar plains. "We'll have more room outside, and there's less chance of breaking stuff that we've already spent ages fixing," she explains to Hotaru as they go.
[08:35] * Usagi-chan nods. "That's where we usually practice," Usagi agrees. "Lots of room to move around in."
[08:44] <Anastasia> Hotaru merely nods to that, silent as you go but playing with her hands a bit. She does look nervous as you go outside...
[08:45] * Usagi-chan rests a hand gently on Hotaru's shoulder, giving the younger girl a smile. "It'll be okay, Hotaru-chan."
[08:46] <Anastasia> Looking up at Usagi at that, "I hope so... you and big sis won't let me hurt anyone, will you?"
[08:48] <Usagi-chan> "We won't. And we'll teach you how to control your power, so you don't have to be afraid of hurting anyone again." Usagi smiles.
[08:48] <Rei-chan> Once outside, and getting some decent distance from the palace, Rei comes to a stop. "Okay... how about we do some meditation exercises before we begin?" she asks Hotaru. "It'll help calm you down."
[08:49] * Usagi-chan stands back, letting Rei take the lead for this.
[08:50] <Anastasia> Nodding to Rei, "Okay, Rei-chan." Closing her eyes, Hotaru takes a breath and begins to recall what Rei has taught her over the past few months...
[08:51] * Rei-chan sits down on the dusty Lunar surface, gesturing for Hotaru to do the same. "Now, just relax. Take deep breaths, and find your inner focus," she smiles reassuringly, "Just like we do most days at the Shrine." Leading by example, Rei does just that.
[08:54] <Anastasia> Hotaru mimics Rei, trying to find her own focus. It seems to take her a bit, more than Rei.
[08:56] * Rei-chan waits patiently until Hotaru has gotten comfortable in her meditation, continuing like that for several more minutes before she calls a halt, standing. "Okay, how do you feel, Hotaru-chan?" she asks, producing her transformation pen in her hand.
[08:57] <Anastasia> "I'm alright," is her reply, her voice more composed than before - but yet, there is still an underlying current of worry there.
[08:58] <Rei-chan> "You'll be fine," Rei smiles encouragingly. "It's just you, me, and Usagi up here. No monsters to fight, no bad people being cruel to you. Just us three."
[09:01] <Anastasia> Smiling back faintly, "I know, Rei-chan." 'But that means, if I hurt anyone...'
[09:03] * Rei-chan holds up her pen. "Let's all transform then - just think of it like changing your clothes, Hotaru. Don't get carried away - there's nothing here you need to fight. You don't need to give any control to Saturn." With those last words of encouragement, she calls out her own transformation, "Mars Holy Power, Make Up!"
[09:03] * Usagi-chan nods, taking out her brooch as she too transforms. "Moon Purity Power, Make UP!"
[09:06] <Anastasia> Looking on at two of the legendary Senshi appear before her, Hotaru is silent.
[09:07] <Sailor_Mars> "Hotaru-chan?" Rei prods.
[09:08] <Anastasia> Her gaze going down to the ground, Hotaru doesn't answer Rei. Yet, you can feel her aura beginning to stir and move...
[09:09] * Sailor_Moon watches Hotaru carefully, wondering how her transformation will proceed.
[09:10] <Sailor_Mars> "You can do it, little sis. Just stay in control," Rei urges quietly.
[09:14] <Anastasia> Slowly, Hotaru's purple aura becomes fully visible, encloaking the girl in it. It surges, covering her completely for a moment before vanishing, leaving the Sailor of Saturn in her place. Standing there with the Silence Glaive and a sure, detached and deadly gaze, both of you can feel the Glaive fully - not just as it was muted when Usagi carried it.
[09:14] <Sailor_Mars> "Hotaru?" Rei asks, a little unnerved by that gaze.
[09:15] * Sailor_Moon feels a chill run down her spine at the powerful aura of the senshi before her, but she stands firm. "Are you okay, Hotaru-chan?" she asks quietly.
[09:17] <Anastasia> "I am well," is her reply - or not hers. The voice is the one that cried of Saturn's transformation on the day of Mistress 9's demise. No, not the voice of a young girl at all.
[09:17] <Sailor_Mars> "You're Saturn, now... aren't you?" Rei asks, clamping down on her worry. Maybe they can deal with it this way, anyway...
[09:19] * Sailor_Moon frowns slightly, studying Saturn carefully.
[09:20] <Anastasia> OOC - Soul check +2, rabbit Goddess.
[09:20] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6+2
[09:20] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6+2 and gets 11."
[09:22] <Anastasia> Smiling a smile that is more of a twist of the face than an actual expression of joy, "I have always been Saturn. Hotaru has gone to bed again." The purple aura around Saturn seems more concentrated, purer. You don't sense Hotaru actively, either, but something very similar to her.
[09:23] <Sailor_Mars> "Why do you take control like this?" Rei asks, trying to keep from sounding too accusing. Saturn is still a Sailor Senshi, after all. "Hotaru should be the one in control."
[09:28] <Anastasia> "Hotaru refuses to accept that, so she relies only on her power and not herself when she transforms," it explains. You don't sense any hostility to you in particular, yet... "She runs and hides deep in her soul - the same place Mistress 9 shuffled her off to."
[09:30] <Sailor_Moon> "That's why we're here, though," Usagi replies. "We want to help her find the confidence to not be afraid of... well, of your power."
[09:30] * Sailor_Mars sighs. "I see..." she can't really blame Saturn for that, then. "Perhaps this is too soon..." But still, that leaves the same problem they came up here to deal with... "What of yourself, then? Hotaru told me of what happened the last time she transformed before you fought Zirae yesterday."
[09:33] <Anastasia> "I am. I have no interest in taking over body in the manner Mistress 9 did. I will simply wait until she becomes capable of using me - or wait her lifetime out if she fails." At that, Saturn smiles. "Her wish to protect Rei somewhat bypassed her fears. Perhaps she does have some hope if she can learn to work with that."
[09:34] <Sailor_Moon> "You don't have any intention of hurting anyone?" Usagi asks, fairly sure that it's not the case - but wanting to be certain all the same. "That seems to be the biggest thing Hotaru's scared of."
[09:36] <Anastasia> "If I had wanted that, I would have aided Mistress 9 instead of helping Hotaru survive it," is it's reply.
[09:36] * Sailor_Moon nods. "That's what I thought, but I figured it would be better to ask and be sure instead of just guessing."
[09:37] <Sailor_Mars> "Perhaps her fears are unfounded... but we'll have to help her understand things herself. Just telling her it's okay doesn't help much..." Rei sighs, seeing that they have a long road ahead of them.
[09:40] <Anastasia> A smile again, not pretty at all despite the sum of the parts of Hotaru's body. "Good luck, Sailor Mars. Even with how she feels about you, you'll need it."
[09:41] <Sailor_Mars> "No doubt," Rei nods sadly. "Thank you for telling us this, Saturn. I hope when we speak next it will be with you integrated fully into Hotaru, though."
[09:41] * Sailor_Moon nods. "Thank you for keeping her safe," Usagi replies.
[09:43] <Anastasia> There isn't a reply, just another surge of purple. Seconds later it abates, Hotaru falling softly to the Lunar soil as if deeply asleep.
[09:43] * Sailor_Moon quickly moves to Hotaru's side, checking the girl over.
[09:43] * Sailor_Mars follows Moon, kneeling down beside her fallen little sister.
[09:44] <Anastasia> She looks to be lightly asleep, and seems almost peaceful. She is otherwise unharmed as far as you can tell.
[09:45] <Sailor_Mars> "We might as well go home, now," Rei says, detransforming. "It'll be some time before she'll be ready to try this again."
[09:45] * Sailor_Moon sighs with relief, dropping her transformation as she does so.
[09:46] * Usagi-chan lightly places a hand on Hotaru's shoulder. "Wake up, Hotaru-chan," she says gently.
[09:47] <Anastasia> Hotaru stirs a bit, opening her eyes and sitting up. "Rei-chan? Usagi-chan? What happened?" she asks, a bit confused. "I..."
[09:48] <Rei-chan> "You became Saturn, little sister," Rei says softly.
[09:51] <Anastasia> "Oh," she says quietly. "I... I didn't hurt anyone, did I?"
[09:52] * Usagi-chan shakes her head, smiling. "No, you didn't hurt anyone. We just talked, that's all."
[09:53] <Rei-chan> "She said you rely on your power but not yourself when you transform - that's why she steps in," Rei tells her.
[09:54] <Anastasia> Hotaru nods to that.
[09:54] <Usagi-chan> "She doesn't want to hurt anyone any more than you do, Hotaru-chan," Usagi says gently. "You don't need to be afraid of her at all - she's just there to help you."
[09:55] <Rei-chan> "Well..." Rei goes on at Hotaru's silence, "This is probably too soon for you, anyway. We know Saturn isn't a danger, but until you can transform for yourself and not for your power, it'd still be best to avoid it, I think."
[11:00] <Anastasia> Hotaru nods. "Right, Rei-chan." Standing and dusting herself off, she seems strangely relieved. "If it's too soon, can we go back to the Shrine now?"
[11:01] * Rei-chan nods. "There's no sense in pushing you ahead when you're not ready. It'll come to you at your own pace."
[11:02] <Usagi-chan> "You don't have to rush into it, Hotaru-chan... but you don't need to be afraid of it, either," Usagi says, smiling.
[11:04] <Anastasia> ---
[11:05] <Anastasia> While that Sunday is spent on the Moon for three, three more sit beneath Mugen and work away on the readings from yesterday. Being called late last night and filled in on the circumstances, Ami is now up to date and going over another set of readouts...
[11:07] <Anastasia> OOC - To get you in the ballpark for this, make a Mind check at +1 to see how you're doing, Ami-chan. Then we'll move on.
[11:07] * Ami-chan chews on the tip of a pencil as she examines the new readouts, comparing the new set to the second most recent set, looking for differences of any sort.
[11:07] <Ami-chan> roll 2d6+1
[11:07] * Hatbot --> "Ami-chan rolls 2d6+1 and gets 9."
[11:11] <Anastasia> It's a lot of data - the adjustments he made to his scanners seems to have helped. You think what you need is in here, but it's just a lot to sift through. Professor Tomoe and Eudial are hard at work as well as you work... "Professor," Eudial speaks up. "Ami, I think I might have something interesting."
[11:13] * Ami-chan looks up, her eyes flitting to the older girl. "What is it?"
[11:14] <Anastasia> Going over with you, Professor Tomoe lets Eudial speak. "Here," she pulls out a readings sheet, detailing energy patterns, "There's a huge gout of those transdimensional particles again, even more than the last set."
[11:15] <Ami-chan> Ami's eyes widen as she examines the sheet. "But they were already high..." she murmurs, examining the context of the release, to see if she can determine just why the larger amount.
[11:17] <Anastasia> Professor Tomoe does likewise with Ami. It's not hard to see - they seem to be a result of Zirae's actions and what happened when he was... penetrated for a moment because of Saturn. Frowning, "That's amazing," he says, going over back to another read out. "If that's accurate..."
[11:19] <Anastasia> "Professor," Eudial asks, not following, really. "If what's accurate?"
[11:20] * Ami-chan nods, looking up. "Did you have an insight, Professor?" She asks, curious as to what he's come up with."
[11:21] <Anastasia> "Come over here, you two," is his reply. "Yes, I believe I have." Pointing to a spread out print out, "See here. This is an analysis of some of his energy beneath." You can see quite a relatively low level spread of energy, with a few tiny but powerful bright spots.
[11:23] * Ami-chan nods, turning that over in her mind, and waiting for the Professor to continue.
[11:26] <Anastasia> "Now... if you've ever looked at the Moon sky, what does it look like?" he asks, going on.
[11:30] <Ami-chan> "A starfield." Ami replies slowly. "Spots of bright light on a vast black backdrop, depending on where you look."
[11:33] <Anastasia> He nods. "Or low level radiation against huge balls of nuclear fusion," he nods.
[11:35] * Ami-chan nods, suddenly seeing what the Professor is getting at, and comparing his illustration to the printout.
[11:38] <Anastasia> There is a certain symmetry to it, you note. "I'm wondering... During my research under Germatou, he briefly investigated if a man-made, tiny pocket dimension could be created to generate power. It's not viable, as the amount of energy needed is simply unimaginable - but... it's theoretically possible, yes."
[11:42] * Ami-chan blinks. "It is... You suspect that's what he's done?" she muses wonderingly. "And Saturn and Usagi's attacks briefly breached it?"
[11:51] <Anastasia> "I don't think HE's done it," he goes on. "I think he IS it, in a way."
[11:55] <Ami-chan> "Perhaps... His control is too fine for it to be a tool." she agrees, tentatively. "But if you're right... how did he come about, if that much power was needed to make him?"
[11:56] <Anastasia> "I don't know," he says. "If the Crystal is connected to it, perhaps that had a role in it, or perhaps it points to a force strong enough to create or summon both."
[11:58] <Ami-chan> "Not a pleasant thought..." Ami sighs. She turns to the sheet again. "How can we confirm the theory?" She asks, curiously.
[11:59] <Anastasia> "Ideally, by being able to run tests on Zirae. Realistically, I don't think we'll be able to easily." he replies, thinking quietly. "Though... the fact that he is projecting another sort of reality around himself says something, as well."
[12:02] * Ami-chan nods. "True..." Ami murmurs, deep in thought. She examines the printout carefully, hoping for a clue to stimulate her imagination on the problem.
[12:06] <Anastasia> You don't see anything groundbreaking there, but there is also a lot of data...
[12:08] * Ami-chan sighs, not feeling altogether on the ball, and switches tacks. "Though... if that is the case, how does that help us?"
[12:28] <Anastasia> "Understanding what Zirae might be will allow us to contemplate strategies for dispatching him," he goes on, "Or at least begin to make further defenses."
[12:32] * Ami-chan nods. "Then I suppose we should resume the research." she replies. "Hopefully we can find some corroborating evidence..." she smiles at him.
[12:33] <Anastasia> Nodding to that, the three begin on their work again...
[12:34] * Ami-chan renews her search, intently looking for either a breakthrough, or a way to confirm or deny the Professor's theory...
[12:38] <Anastasia> ---
[12:40] <Anastasia> Yet another trio are out and about that Sunday as well - Alan invited/dragged Makoto with him and Ann. The latter is interested in getting some shopping done...
[12:45] <Anastasia> The female elf is oddly buoyant today as you walk along. Even cheery, almost, as you approach the main mall area. "I need something... colorful. Maybe green or purple?" she asks the both of you..
[12:48] <Makoto> "Green is better," Makoto states, thinking of what would look better on Ann.
[12:49] <Anastasia> "Purple's good, too," Alan says a moment later, picking at his own purple T-shirt. It's a shame he's going casual and wearing red sweat pants with it, though.
[12:52] <Anastasia> Glancing at Alan, she pauses a moment. "What were you saying about green, Makoto?"
[12:54] <Makoto> "Well, I like green a lot more than purple is all," Makoto replies simply.
[12:57] <Anastasia> "It can't be any worse than purple," she says, again glancing at Alan, who scowls. "Makoto... shouldn't you have color coordinated him or something today?"
[13:00] <Makoto> "Hey, you're the one that lives with him right now. Have you ever considered just burning his bad clothes until he shops right?"
[13:00] <Anastasia> "Hey!" Alan protests. "This is perfectly fine!"
[13:00] <Makoto> "Sorry, hun, but purple is -not- your color," Makoto says with a face.
[13:01] <Anastasia> Ignoring Alan's protest, "I'm considering it - I've stopped borrowing his clothes lately," she nods, "Since he seems to think clashing colors are all the rage."
[13:03] <Anastasia> Alan grumps a bit at that. "Fine," he complains, blinking a moment. Still in human form, he nonetheless now wears his 'natural' clothes. They look different on him, almost...nice and noble, somehow.
[13:07] <Makoto> "Well...that does look better on you. Much, much better," Makoto notes. "But kinda inappropriate for the setting."
[13:09] <Anastasia> Ann shrugs. "It looks nice on your human body," she says, eyeing him all over. "Really nice, actually."
[13:12] <Makoto> "Yeah it does, but like I said, it'll look weird to other people," Makoto says. "Around us is fine, but otherwise he'll attract as much attention as with his clashing outfits."
[13:14] <Anastasia> Entering into the mall plaza, you note that plenty of people are about. "I don't think it matters at this point," Ann says qith a bit more quiet, noting that already you're getting a couple of stares.
[13:16] <Makoto> "I guess you're right," Makoto says with a small frown. "Come on, let's keep moving. They might stop staring if we ignore them."
[13:18] <Anastasia> Nodding, Alan begins to walk... until he stops. "Shit," he curses with venom... you can just see a flash of white out of the corner of your eye...(OOC - Soul check, +2.)
[13:18] <Makoto> roll 2d6+2
[13:18] * Hatbot --> "Makoto rolls 2d6+2 and gets 7."
[13:19] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[13:19] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[13:19] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[13:19] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[13:20] <Anastasia> Resisting something with a instinctual toughening of oneself, the three of you see all those around you become as clear as the air, only three objects floating in them. It's happening again...Zirae stands amidst them all, scanning...
[13:22] <Anastasia> Cursing softly, Alan slips into a defensive posture. "Great, this guy again..."
[13:22] <Anastasia> "Hold it, Alan," Ann says, remembering what she's heard from Usagi.
[13:23] * Makoto frowns. "Well, looks like stares are the least of our worries," Makoto says before she looks at Ann, curious as to what Ann wants to say.
[13:46] <Anastasia> "Just let him go if he doesn't do anything to us," she goes on. "Usagi said he's not interested in anything but the Crystal."
[13:48] * Makoto frowns. She doesn't like the idea of letting someone like that leave, but she trusts Usagi's judgement.
[13:49] <Makoto> "Fine, but if he tries to hurt anyone..." Makoto says as she keeps a careful eye on the being's actions.
[13:50] <Anastasia> He seems to be looking around. His eyes go past the three of you, dead and uninterested in you past a cursory inspection. A moment later, he just vanishes, the clarity effect on the other humans gone as well.
[13:51] <Anastasia> Blowing out a breath, "Bastard," Ann says, as the affected humans get back up and resume their business, as if nothing had gotten in their way.
[13:55] <Makoto> "That was somewhat anticlimactic," Makoto says, though not altogether disappointed. Turning to the siblings, she asks, "I suppose we should resume shopping then?"
[13:56] <Anastasia> "Yeah," Ann says. "We should let Usagi know we saw him here, though."
[13:59] * Makoto nods. "I'll try to reach her. One second," she says as she tries to reach Usagi mentally. 'Yo, Usagi, you around?'
[14:00] <Usagi-chan> 'What's up, Mako-chan?' Usagi sends back a moment later.
[14:02] <Makoto> 'Just had an encounter with that Zirae guy, Usagi. Managed to stay up this time along with Alan and Ann, but he just looked around and left,' Makoto replies mentally. 'Just wanted to let you know he'd been around here.'
[14:03] <Usagi-chan> 'Where are you guys?' Usagi sends back a moment later, sounding resigned.
[14:05] <Makoto> 'We're at the mall right now,' Makoto answers.
[14:06] <Usagi-chan> 'All right, thanks for letting me know. Are you guys all right?' the blonde sends back.
[14:07] <Makoto> 'Yeah, we're just fine. Like I said, he left pretty quickly after looking around.'
[14:07] <Usagi-chan> 'All right, I'll pass it on to the Professor - maybe he got some readings from it, I don't know. Just be careful if you see him again, okay?'
[14:08] <Makoto> 'Yeah, I'll keep that in mind. You take care also, Usagi-chan,' Makoto replies as she nods to Ann.
[14:13] <Anastasia> Nodding back, "Let's get going, then." she says, her good cheer gone.
[14:16] <Makoto> "Where to first?" Makoto asks.
-------
[14:36] * Haruka walks alongside Artemis, who is sporting his human guise for this outing, chatting about random this or that happenings that she's missed out on so far during her leave. "Sounds like I missed a ton," she comments to Artemis.
[14:38] <Anastasia> "No kidding," he nods. "With Zirae going on, your... problems with Viluy nearly got missed entirely." At that, he stops. "Oh, wait. That's Makoto over there, isn't it, and Ann and Alan? Want some more company?"
[14:41] * Haruka looks in the direction Artemis indicates and thinks about it. "Sure, I guess," she responds with a shrug. "I can't keep myself holed away forever."
[14:44] <Anastasia> With a nod, "Hey, Makoto! Ann! Alan," the cat calls loudly, waving by his position next to a department store.
[14:47] * Makoto blinks as she hears the familiar voice and turns, seeing the two. Waving back she calls out, "Hey Haruka, Artemis!"
[14:48] <Anastasia> The two elves come along, Alan notable for his unusual choice of clothing. "Hey," Ann nods to the two. "Did you see what happened a few minutes ago?"
[14:49] <Haruka> "Um... no?" Haruka offers in reply.  "I'm guessing something important?"
[14:50] <Makoto> "Zirae popped up for a visit to the mall," Makoto explains.
[14:52] <Anastasia> Ann nods again. "The bastard got the entire mall plaza," she says in annoyance.
[14:52] * Haruka rubs the bridge of her nose, a sure headache manifesting as annoyance is written clear across her face. "That's three times now..." she grumbles.
[14:54] <Anastasia> "Four," Artemis corrects. "Zirae visited Rei's Shrine yesterday."
[14:56] <Makoto> "Figures. What is it about Rei's temple? Every single enemy we've had to worry about seems to attack it at least once," Makoto asks while rolling her eyes.
[14:57] <Anastasia> Chuckling, "It must be Rei's shining personality or her lovely fiery temper," Artemis says with a smirk. "Anyway, Hotaru managed to get him to leave, but he seemed to want Rei personally. Be careful, girls - he might be starting to show interest in us."
[14:57] * Makoto blinks. "Hotaru? Shy little Hotaru?" Makoto asks somewhat incredulous.
[14:58] <Anastasia> "That little girl who works at Rei's Shrine?" Ann asks further, surprised herself. "She was able to protect Rei from THAT?"
[14:58] * Haruka listens quietly absorbing the information.
[15:02] <Anastasia> "She turned into Sailor Saturn and somehow managed it," Artemis shakes his head. "She did a good job of it, too."
[15:03] <Haruka> "She voluntarily transformed into Sailor Saturn?" Haruka asks, for clarification.
[15:03] * Makoto nods as Haruka asks that. "I thought she disliked that part of herself..."
[15:05] <Anastasia> "I don't have all the details, but I think it's because she really wanted to protect Rei," Artemis shrugs. "I'll ask Ami about it again tonight, if you want."
[15:07] <Haruka> "I think I might like that, Artemis," Haruka replies with a nod.  "Being out of the loop for these things is annoying."
[15:19] <Anastasia> "We can go drop by her house after this, then," he suggests.
[15:21] <Haruka> "As long as she's not busy," Haruka tells Artemis.

[15:35] <Anastasia> Artemis nods to that. "Well, let's get to business, then," he says. "Haruka wanted to go clothes shopping, what about you guys?" Starting to smile, "Hey, Makoto! Maybe you could get Haruka a nice dress, eh?"
[15:36] * Makoto smirks. "I'd rather see you getting some new clothes. That don't show off..." She pokes Artemis in the belly button. "...this."
[15:37] <Makoto> "And I'm sure Haruka could teach you a thing or two about dressing like a -guy-, Artemis."
[15:37] <Anastasia> "I'll have you know this is the height of popular fashion," he retorts with almost dignity. "And hell, the way she dresses, I'd MAKE a cuter girl than Haruka would."
[15:39] <Makoto> "...Is that a challenge?" Makoto asks with a wicked grin. "I do know some very nice dress shops, Artemis."
[15:39] * Haruka smirks at that. "I think that sounds just perfect, Makoto," she replies with a snicker.
[15:40] <Makoto> "Oh, is that an agreement to help model alongside Artemis so we can tell if he's right that he'll look better than you in one? What do you think, Ann?"
[15:41] <Anastasia> Ann nods quickly, as Artemis sputters. "I'd bet on Artemis myself," she says critically, half gliding over to the two. "Haruka's hair is just too manly as is."
[15:41] * Haruka frowns now at her traitorous senshi comrade.
[15:42] <Haruka> "I agree. I'd look horrible in a dress," Haruka adds to Ann's observation quickly.
[15:42] <Makoto> "Oh? I think Haruka would look lovely. How about this? I take care of Haru-chan, while you beautify Artemis? And Alan can be our judge!" Makoto says, ignoring Haruka's outcry.
[15:43] <Anastasia> "A-at least you can see that, not like I NEED be in a dress to outwoman a dressed up Haruka," Artemis tries to salvage, floundering. "With those hips of hers, she'll get mistaken for a whale or a cow or somethin'!"
[15:43] <Makoto> "Are you going to take that Haruka? C'mon, let's show him!" Makoto says with a grin as she starts to pull on Haruka's arm towards one of the dress shops.
[15:44] <Anastasia> "You're on, Makoto," Ann smirks, turning to Artemis. "Come on, cat, I'm going to make you PRETTY!"
[15:44] * Haruka gives Artemis a look that would kill the Mau if a glare could do such a thing. "You have a deathwish, kitty?" she offers in a sweet sing-song tone as her hands clench reflexively. She may not consider herself to be the feminine sort, but she took pride in her appearance nonetheless...
[15:45] <Anastasia> Doing the same as Makoto, Ann grabs hold of the catman. "Hey! Wait a second! I was joking there, really!"
[15:46] <Makoto> "That's the spirit, Haru-chan!" Makoto says as she raises an arm to the air while continuing to drag Haru-chan. "Battle on!"
[15:47] * Haruka sighs and allows herself to be led away by Makoto.
[15:49] <Makoto> Stepping into the store she'd targetted, Makoto waves at the cashiers before heading towards the dress aisle.
[15:50] <Haruka> "I'm going to regret this, aren't I?" Haruka asks Makoto as the scenery turns more feminine with every step.
[16:47] <Makoto> "Nah, of course not!" Makoto says with a smile. "How could any girl regret this? Now, what's your favorite color? We'll start off that."
[16:49] <Haruka> "Gold and black," Haruka offers tentatively, wondering if those colors will end up being her least favorite colors and become associated with bad, traumatic memories.
[16:57] <Makoto> "Hmm... Black would be a challenge. Gold shouldn't be too bad though. Can probably see if we can find something in a golden color, but with some black trimming or something," she says more to herself as opposed to for Haruka's benefit as she begins to browse around.
[17:08] <Ana-games> Looking around the dress selection, you note the majority of the wares offered here are in the chinese style... looking a bit more, you find a few goldish colored cheosims, closing at the neck and showing quite a bit of leg.
[17:12] <Makoto> "Hmm... I thought this place carried a more wide selection. Hey Haruka, you want to razzle dazzle them with a chinese combination, or should we try some of the other shops?" Makoto asks, letting Haruka have -some- say in her final look.
[17:15] <Haruka> "Other," Haruka replies quickly. She eyes the high cut of the Chinese dresses and shivers slightly. "Definitely other..."
[17:18] * Makoto nods. "Alright, let's try the store next door. I'm -sure- that one had some more standard sort of dresses," Makoto says, though she keeps her eye on one dress and keeps in mind to come check it out later when they're not competing.
[17:19] <Ana-games> As you exit out, Alan waves briefly. "No luck yet?" he asks, amused. "Don't worry, you'll have time, it looks like."
[17:19] <Makoto> "Oh? Ann having trouble finding something that doesn't show off Arty's legs?" Makoto asks with a smirk.
[17:19] * Haruka nods wearily, but nevertheless follows her enthusiastic companion who seems hellbent on winning this competition.
[17:21] <Ana-games> "Something like that," he smirks. "No, Ann wanted something more feminine - like a dress and ribbon set, I think."
[17:22] <Makoto> "Hah!" Makoto laughs with a grin as she enters the next store. "Haruka doesn't need no stinking ribbons!" she states.
[17:24] <Ana-games> The next store is equally as girl-oriented, but has a far wider selection. Dresses, skirts, hair bows, purses...
[17:24] * Haruka can only nod at that statement, finally having something to agree with Makoto about.
[17:25] <Makoto> Picking up a dress that catches her eye, she tosses it at Haruka. "What do you think?" Makoto asks as she lets Haruka look at the yellow dress with no back and black spaghetti straps snaking around each other as they loop over where the shoulders would be.
[17:27] * Haruka eyes the lack of a back and nods her head firmly in the negative. "Definitely a no," she tells Makoto firmly. "It has to have a back."
[17:28] * Makoto frowns. "Alright, but I think you'd probably get some bonus points there."
[17:29] * Makoto starts to look around again, while motioning for Haruka to join in. "C'mon, if you don't want a back, gimme some idea of what you like!"
[17:30] <Haruka> "No no, I -want- a back," Haruka corrects Makoto. "That's really only the one major stipulation," she tells her.
[17:32] <Makoto> "Err, sorry, was still stuck on the thought of a backless dress, but okay... anything as long as it has a back..."
[18:00] * Makoto frowns as she finds it hard to get a nice golden dress, and goes against her earlier thoughts at the sight of a slinky black dress. "Haru-chan, I think we have a winner here..." she says as she grabs it and places it in front of Haruka.
[18:05] <Haruka> "A 'little black dress', Makoto?" Haruka comments with a raised eyebrow. "Well, I did say I was pretty open to anything as long as it had a back so..." She looks at Makoto with a resigned look. "I'm guessing you want me to try this on?" she sighs defeatedly.
[18:05] <Makoto> "Of course," Makoto says with a grin.
[18:06] <Makoto> "I'll go look for jewelry while you try it on," she adds as she heads towards the jewelry section. "Yell if you need anything."
[18:08] <Haruka> "Right," Haruka returns then looks this way and that for the change room as Makoto heads off. "The instinct to flee grows..." she mutters to herself eyeing the slinky... thing in her hands.
[18:08] <Makoto> While Haruka heads to get changed, Makoto looks at some of the gold jewelry, figuring some gold would work well to enhance her look.
[18:16] * Haruka finds herself inside the changeroom. Her gaze shifts from the dress to her reflection as she disrobes, wondering for the umpteenth time this hour, how it was that she's come to this point. Shaking the thought, she wastes no further time by changing quickly then studying the results in the mirror.
[18:21] <Makoto> "Hey Haruka, how's it going?" Makoto asks from outside. "I have a gold necklace if you want to try it."
[18:25] <Haruka> "Good, I suppose," she answers back without any firmness behind the statement. "Bring it on in, and we'll see how it's looking."
[18:26] * Makoto nods and steps through the sheet covering the entrance. Looking at the dress she grins. "We're gonna show that cat who's got the talent for being feminine around here!"
[18:29] * Haruka looks down at herself at that. She doesn't feel any different or special, but takes Makoto's observations and whims in stride for the time being. "As long as one of us is confident, I guess," Haruka offers in reply with an uneasy chuckle. "Help me with the necklace?" she asks turning around to have Makoto fasten it in place.
[18:31] <Makoto> "Sure," Makoto says with cheer as she steps up to be right behind Haruka and grabbing the ends of the necklace, clasping it.
[18:31] <Makoto> "There we go..."
[18:35] <Haruka> "Thanks," Haruka says as she studies her reflection once more. "Well, you did fit the black and gold in like I asked," she comments before asking, "So, what's next or are we done?"
[18:37] <Makoto> "Not done yet! We still need to freshen up your face a bit. Fluff the hair a bit, and some eyeliner and lipstick. THEN we'll be done."
[18:39] * Haruka groans at that announcement. "Must we?" she asks, hoping the demanding Senshi of Jupiter would relent. Oh, there was little chance of that, she could figure, but it never hurt to try anyway.
[18:42] <Makoto> "Hmm... we could probably do without it, but Artemis will probably be a while, and what girl dislikes a makeover?" Makoto says in a rhetorical sort of fashion as she begins to drag Haruka to the salon.
[18:44] <Makoto> Stopping at the counter, she snaps her fingers. "Oh right, you have to pay for your new dress and necklace first!"
[18:49] <Haruka> "Yes, that would help," Haruka notes. "I'm not sure being hauled off by security adds to femininity and stuff."
[18:49] <Anastasia> The dress and necklace cost a decent pile of yen - it'll put Haruka's pocketbook in the strings after this, but it's quite doable.
[18:51] * Haruka eyes the cost of the dress then looks over at Makoto. "I hope this is worth it," she comments staring at the dress, but nonetheless paying for it at the counter.
[18:55] <Makoto> "If the sight of Artemis in a dress isn't worth it, I don't know what is," Makoto says, remembering to keep her little doll happy. "Now off to the salon!"
[18:56] * Haruka wonders slightly if the sight of Artemis in drag is really worth THAT much to her, but allows Makoto to have her way with her.
[18:58] <Makoto> As they enter the salon, she looks around to see the sort of stylists she has to work with to get Haruka ready. "Hmmm..."
[18:59] <Anastasia> There are several, all women and all looking chatty as they converse with each other. A small front desk takes walk-ins. "Can I help you ladies today?"
[19:00] * Haruka defers to her taskmistress as she's out of her elements here...
[19:00] <Makoto> "I suppose so," Makoto says as she pulls Haruka forward and then pushes her in front of her. "I need a stylist to help with my friend Haruka"
[19:03] <Anastasia> Giving Haruka a critical eye, "I can see that," she nods. "Hey, Goudaiko! We have a dirty diamond here for ya!"
[19:04] <Anastasia> Looking up, a haircapped 30ish woman replies from near an empty seat. "Send her over, then! I'll pretty her up."
[19:04] * Haruka bristles slightly at that, but keeps quiet. "You owe me, Makoto..." Haruka whispers at the girl behind her.
[19:05] <Makoto> "Nah, other way around, Haru-chan!" Makoto says sweetly while grinning. "The fun I'm having is payment enough though! Now get moving!"
[19:05] <Makoto> At the last bit, she pushes her blonde friend towards the older woman.
[19:07] * Haruka squawks in slight indignation as she's ushered forth by Makoto like that, but she still makes her way to Goudaiko to face her fate.
[19:08] <Anastasia> It's the third chair down, the slightly ditzy looking brunette smiling as you come up. "Hello, sugar," she says to Haruka. "You're the fixer-upper today, aren't you?"
[19:09] <Makoto> While Haruka is being manhandled by her stylist, Makoto looks at the cashier. "So how much would the styling come out to be?" Makoto asks, figuring she might possibly be willing to offer to pay this part of the makeover. Possibly.
[19:12] <Haruka> "Fixer-upper..." Haruka echoes with a slight frown. "That makes me sound so unbelievably bad..."
[19:16] <Anastasia> "Well... dear, do you have your mother's credit card?" she asks, diplomatically, while Haruka is seated. "Tell me... what's your name, dear, and what do you think about hair extensions?" the stylist asks meanwhile, eyeing Haruka's short crop o' hair.
[19:19] <Haruka> "I should have more than enough to cover," she answers first before addressing the second and third questions. "I have no problems with extensions and the name's Haruka." She ticks off a mental checklist to make sure she answers all the questions.
[19:21] <Anastasia> "Good to meet you, Haruka. You're still in high school, aren't you," she asks, spraying your hair with what feels to be water.
[19:23] <Haruka> "Second year," Haruka acknowledges, trying to keep up with the start of idle chatter.
[19:23] <Anastasia> "Good, good. What school do you go to?" she asks further. "Local girl? I hear Juuban High isn't too bad." At that, she begins to fiddle with your hair, almost as if working on something with it.
[19:25] <Haruka> "I don't go to Juuban High, I go to Mugen, actually," Haruka tells her, trying to figure out, with some measure of trepidation, what exactly the woman is doing to her lovely, defenseless hair.
[19:26] <Anastasia> You aren't entirely sure, but she's pulling it tight like she's trying to bring it to points. "The Infinity School! You're a smart one, aren't you?"
[19:27] <Haruka> "I got roped into being the moving parts in a bet so I can't be all -that- smart," Haruka points out with a chuckle, making sure though to not jostle her head any for fear of a bad cut.
[19:28] <Anastasia> Smiling unseen as she attaches SOMETHING to your hair bit by bit, "A makeover bet, Haruka? You're lucky you lost... you'll be stunning and have boys all over you when I'm done."
[19:31] <Haruka> "Something like that," Haruka responds before the second portion of her statement filters through. "Lovely..." she says, on having THAT type of image put into her head.
[19:32] <Anastasia> "Isn't it?" she smiles, her hands working further. "There should be a summer dance coming soon - you'll have a date for it for sure now."
[19:36] <Haruka> "Oh, we'll see how that plays out," Haruka answers noncommitally. "Let's just say that I'm picking up the pieces after being told by someone I liked that they only wanted to be friends," she tells the 'dresser. She wonders why she's even telling this woman that, but finds it strangely cathartic.
[19:38] <Anastasia> "Oh, you poor thing," she coos. "That's such a heartbreaker." Patting your shoulder, "I'll make you extra pretty so you'll get over him in no time." At that, she moves from your hair to your face. "Close your eyes, I'm going to put on a face mask."
[19:39] * Haruka follows the woman's directions though cringes inside at the 'him' part.
[19:41] <Anastasia> As she does so, she gently puts a warm ...something over your face. It smells faintly like fruit, but you can't really pin it down. "So... what did that jerk do to you, Haruka?"
[19:43] <Haruka> "Just that I was more like a sister than anything else," she comments, mentally kicking the past images in her head slightly.
[19:44] <Anastasia> She sighs at that, moving back behind you again. "He doesn't know what he's missing then."
[19:47] <Haruka> "Yeah, that's sort of what I tried telling myself," Haruka says with a sigh, though not wholly sadly. "But it's something that can't be helped. Fate just doesn't want to deal me the right cards yet, I suppose."
[19:49] <Anastasia> "Not yet, but it'll turn around," she reassures you, coming over and removing the fragrant mask. "That's a start, I guess," she muses. "Add some makeup and you're on the right path, Haruka."
[19:52] <Haruka> "Right path?" Haruka repeats in slightly dubious tones. "If you say so. I never did experiment much with makeup," she tells her honestly. "Suppose that's one of the reasons why I never bothered with the stuff."
[19:53] <Anastasia> Coming back around, she hands you a large hand mirror. "Give yourself a look now," she nods. "I can apply a bit of make up right now if you want some - really, you just use a little bit to bring out your own beauty."
[19:54] * Haruka looks to see if there's really that much of a difference with such a simple thing.
[19:55] <Anastasia> With now shoulder-length blonde hair and a somehow brighter face, you do note a bit of a difference...
[19:57] * Haruka cocks her head curiously, if not with a bit of surprise at the change. "Huh..." she says, at a loss for any words to say about this. "This is..." Haruka searches for a term to pin on this. "Nice, I guess."
[20:01] <Anastasia> The stylist nods. "It is, isn't it?"
[20:07] * Haruka simply nods in reply. "Although I don't have much to compare this result with," she tells her with a slight chuckle.
[20:08] <Anastasia> "I can give you something to compare it with," she smiles warmly. "Why don't you come back in a few days and we'll do another special treatment? I'll give you a discount and you'll be even more stunning then."
[20:10] * Haruka hums, considering that offer and finding no reason not to she nods her head. "I suppose, we can give that a go," she says after deliberation.
[20:13] <Anastasia> "Good choice, dear. Just ask for me the next time you come up here," she nods. "Anyway, you're ready to go now, unless you wanted that makeup?"
[20:15] <Haruka> "Huh..." she trails off, weighing that option mentally. "Well, we've gone this far already so we might as well go all the way through," she says finally with a shrug.
[20:16] <Anastasia> "We'll go with some light lipstick, a foundation, and a touch of eye shadow, dear." she nods, getting the make up and getting to work on making you PRETTY.
[20:19] * Haruka offers up no arguments or suggestion, leaving it to the woman's professional hands to get a positive result. 'This is going to suck if I go this far and still lose to Artemis...' she thinks to herself glumly.
[12:08] <Anastasia> ---
[12:10] <Anastasia> After waiting a bit while Haruka is worked on, the blonde finally comes forth, fresh from a facial and extended hair. With healty looking faux hair and a glowing face accented by a bit of makeup, Haruka looks both better and more feminine. In a dress, she'd be quite the looker now, you'd think.
[12:14] <Makoto> "Looks good, Haruka," Makoto says appreciatevely. "You'll knock some socks off when we step out of here."
[12:17] <Haruka> "I suppose..." Haruka replies with a chuckle as she catches sight of her reflection once more. "I don't think this is something I can keep up on a regular basis though."
[12:23] <Makoto> "Well, let's see about getting this paid so we can go show Ann and Artemis what being a lady is all about," Makoto says with a smile.
[12:23] <Makoto> 'As well as see Arty in a dress...' she thinks but doesn't voice.
[12:26] <Haruka> "I'm sure you can hardly wait," Haruka comments with a smirk.
[12:28] <Makoto> "Of course not!" Makoto replies, before turning to the cashier. "So how much was it anyhow? You never really replied on that."
[12:32] <Anastasia> "Oh, I'm sorry," she replies quickly. "I was on the phone. It's 4,000 yen, dear."
[12:45] <Makoto> "Hmm..." Makoto voices in thought before digging into her purse for the money. "I can cover that."
[12:46] <Anastasia> Nodding as you hand her the crisp bills to pay. "You two come back now," she smiles. "Especially you, Haruka. You look lovely now."
[12:47] <Haruka> "Uh... thanks," Haruka manages clumsily, unused to such compliments.
[12:51] <Makoto> "Thanks a lot, uhm, Godaiko-san?" Makoto says towards the stylist, trying to remember her exact name.
[12:51] <Anastasia> With a nod, "Make sure you get a good date, Haruka. The boys won't stay off you now, so be picky."
[12:53] * Haruka coughs slightly at that before grabbing hold of Makoto's sleeve. "Time to go, Makoto-chan," she says hurriedly, making her tactical retreat. "Can't keep the others waiting and all."
[12:54] * Makoto grins. "Heh... sure... hehheh... you... man-killer, you... heheheheheh..."
[13:00] <Haruka> "I'm sure this fun little story isn't going to spread further than between the two of us, right Mako-chan," Haruka asks sweetly, promising with her eyes pain beyond the physical should this get out.
[13:01] <Makoto> "Well, not -your- part in this," Makoto replies in a placating fashion before she eyes a photo shop and some disposable cameras. "Artemis, on the other hand..."
[13:02] <Makoto> "One moment, I see something I want to buy before we meet up with the others," Makoto says to Haruka before running to the photo shop.
[13:04] <Haruka> "You are so evil..." Haruka comments plainly to her companion. "In a strangely adorable kind of way," she finishes with a shake of her head as she sees where Makoto is headed.
[13:04] <Anastasia> On buying that and rejoining Alan, you find that Ann and Arty aren't quite back yet. "They should be just a little longer," Alan nods. "Ann told me a few minutes ago she was just finishing up the final touches on him." Once having said that, he glances over at Haruka. "Did a good job, too, Makoto. Too bad I'm already spoken for," he grins to the blonde.
[13:08] <Makoto> "Too bad? Should I feel insulted?" Makoto asks with a raised eyebrow before giggling and kissing Alan in the cheek. "Oh well, I'll forgive you this time."
[13:08] <Haruka> "Lines that I usually use are being used on me," Haruka laments. "This day has been so very, very strange..."
[13:11] <Anastasia> Smiling back at Makoto, "Sure about that, Makoto," he asks, enjoying himself. "Anyway... oh, there's Ann!"
[13:11] <Anastasia> At that, a simple slight turn of the head shows the two. Ann is walking ahead, grinning ear to ear, behind Artemis. And wow, what an Artemis it is.
[13:13] <Makoto> Hiding the camera in her subspace pocket, Makoto grins as she waves towards the two. "Hey Ann! Arty-chan!"
[13:13] * Haruka tries to capture a glance at her co-victim in this little bet.
[13:14] <Anastasia> Walking with 'her' head down and taking small, demure steps, Artemis comes forward. Wearing a cute light blue full body dress with darker blue ribbons on the sleeves and a bit of padding, he really does look like a 'she'. Add on a blue hair ribbon that ties 'her' hair back into a demure braid augumented with some makeup and earrings and you have a quite female-looking cat.
[13:17] <Anastasia> Blinking a few times, Alan just sums it up in one word. "Damn."
[13:18] <Anastasia> Still grinning, "How does she look, Makoto?" Ann asks. "Just like a nice little wife-to-be, doesn't she?"
[13:18] <Makoto> 'Ooookay, this might be a bit of a challenge,' Makoto thinks as she gets a closer look of 'Arty-chan'.
[13:18] <Makoto> "Arty-chan looks... okay, I suppose. Haruka looks MUCH better though," Makoto says with as much conviction in her voice as she can. 'Jeez, what did Ann -do- with Artemis?'
[13:19] <Anastasia> Looking up to give Ann a death glare, Artemis frowns. "Oh, don't even. You should thank me for making you so cute, Artemis." Ann replies playfully, 'I even taught her to walk like one of those quiet native girls. This is SO in the bag'. Smirking, Ann turns to Makoto. "I don't know, Makoto. Want to put something on the line for it," she smiles.
[13:22] * Makoto frowns herself this time. "Like what?"
[13:22] * Haruka sidles up next to Artemis to conspiratorially whisper, "So you really wanted to win this contest, eh, Artemis?" She gives the Mau a wide grin at that. "Looks nice," Haruka adds with a slight chuckle.
[13:23] <Anastasia> "Oh, I don't know... how about the loser has to take the winner and her friends out to eat five times on demand?" Ann suggests.
[13:24] <Anastasia> Glaring still, but this time at Haruka, "I don't. Ann was just... violently persuasive and promised me a crate of sushi if I went along with it," he sighs. "What the hell was I thinking today?"
[13:25] * Makoto raises an eyebrow. "No deal. I have first hand experience with how much you and Alan eat. I don't get as much out of the bet as you do."
[13:27] <Haruka> "I asked myself the same thing earlier, Artemis," Haruka admits, giving 'her' a look of understanding. "I'm sure we'll both look back on this day and laugh. Or cry," she says, patting Artemis on the shoulder.
[13:27] <Anastasia> "Aw, damn," Ann mutters, thinking. "Hm. How about..." Ann pauses, thinking.
[13:28] <Makoto> "Wait, I have an idea," Makoto says with a grin. "The loser gets a make over from -their- bet. You from Artemis and me from Haruka." 'Surely Haruka won't do anything as evil as Arty could do for Ann...'
[13:29] <Anastasia> Grinning at that, "You're on, then," she nods.
[13:30] <Haruka> "I don't know. I kind of like the idea of leaving the type of vengance open to us victims. What do you think, Aretmis?" Haruka asks, turning to her comrade in pain.
[13:31] <Anastasia> Sighing, "That's fine. If I lose..." he chuckles darkly, "I wonder how a bald elf looks?"
[13:31] * Makoto coughs, debating whether this might have been a bad move. "Err, anyhow, Alan, how do you want to handle voting?"
[13:32] <Anastasia> "I was just going to choose who I thought was better," Alan shrugs. "Do you have something else in mind?"
[13:41] * Makoto shrugs. "Nah, about the only thing would be adding different competitions, like they do on TV, but we didn't buy swimsuits and such, so I guess that's fine. Go ahead and choose, and explain your reason on voting with each one."
[13:43] <Anastasia> "I have to explain," he asks, looking at both Ann and Makoto. "Well... damn. I like both of them - Haruka looks sexy and Artemis looks like one of those really cute quiet girls on TV."
[13:46] <Anastasia> Sighing, "Choose, ALAN," Ann emphasizes. "Make the RIGHT choice already, right?"
[13:48] <Makoto> "You're not trying to influence the judge in any way, are you, ANN?" Makoto says sweetly with the same sort of inflection.
[13:48] <Anastasia> "Of course not, Makoto-CHAN," she smiles back, with a touch of acid.
[13:51] <Anastasia> "Umm..." Alan sighs. "Girls," he asks, addressing Haruka and Artemis. "Do either of you really want to win?"
[13:53] <Anastasia> "Haruka wants to win," Artemis speaks up quickly. "Don't you?"
[13:53] * Haruka glances at Artemis to see if 'she' is going to answer before saying anything.
[13:54] <Haruka> "Do I?" Haruka asks, giving the Mau a look. "But you look so nice, Artemis-chan," she compliments, giving 'her' a wink.
[13:55] <Anastasia> Smiling a bit and winking back, "You do too, Haruka-chan," he nods. "I can't win over you in good grace."
[13:56] <Anastasia> "Artemis," Ann half shrieks, annoyed. "You can TOO win over Ma-Haruka!"
[13:58] <Haruka> "Oh, but I insist," Haruka defers, ignoring Ann's shrieks. "I mean you're so deserving of the right to call yourself most feminine. Just think of how proud Luna will be when she sees you," she adds in a sing-song tone of voice, giving Artemis a pleasant smile.
[14:00] <Anastasia> "Well..." Artemis ponders...
[14:02] * Makoto coughs. "Enough 'praising' and let's get back to voting, shall we?"
[14:02] <Anastasia> "Yeah!" Ann half shouts. "Let's get a winner already!"
[14:02] <Anastasia> Pocketing a 1 yen coin, Alan nods. "Okay, I have a winner, then."
[14:14] <Anastasia> Smiling, "Sorry, Haruka. You look lovely... but... dammit, Artemis looks like a real woman. Add a few kids and she'd be a housewife on a trip out. At least you'll get to have your way with Makoto, right," he tries to salvage, sending Makoto a look of 'sorry, dear'.
[14:16] <Anastasia> "Guh," Artemis murmurs to that.
[14:17] * Haruka twitches slightly at the 'real woman' comment, but lets it slide.
[14:17] * Makoto rolls her eyes at the verdict. "Well, I think you're really pretty Haru-chan, for what it's worth."
[14:17] <Anastasia> "Ha," Ann grins, smiling. "She is... just not as cute as Arty-chan!"
[14:18] <Makoto> "Still though, can't let the winner go away empty handed..." Makoto says as she pulls the camera out of subspace and takes a photo quickly. "Say Cheese!"
[14:19] <Anastasia> "Gah!" Artemis jumps at that. "Give me that!" he protests, glaring at Makoto.
[14:21] * Makoto quickly shifts the camera back into subspace before the cat can get it. "Not till I show this to Ami," she replies with a grin. "It's too priceless."
[14:21] <Anastasia> "Give me that, Makoto," he shouts/pleads. "If Luna sees it, I'll never live this down!"
[14:21] <Haruka> "Artemis and I are supposed to be heading there now, actually, so she'd see it anyway, Makoto," Haruka comments.
[14:22] <Makoto> "Hey, there's a thought..." Makoto says. "I'd only really thought about Ami-chan have a photo of her favorite roommate, but I'm sure Luna would love a picture too!"
[14:23] <Makoto> "Oh, you're going to see Ami, hmmm, oh well, I guess she'll prefer the live show anyhow. How are you going to keep Artemis dressed like that though?"
[14:28] <Anastasia> "She's NOT," Artemis scowls, ducking into a nearby bathroom. Moments later, a rather annoyed Mau comes out - though, still with makeup over his white furred face.
[14:34] * Haruka snickers as she catches sight of Artemis. "You want me to help get that off your face or shall we just get going, Artemis?"
-------
[09:19] <Anastasia> Come Monday and regularity again, it's easy to forget about Zirae and all of his antics, almost. Ami again misses classes, however, working away with the two others...
[09:21] <Anastasia> Looking over more scans, Professor Tomoe finally calls a halt. "Alright, that's enough for now," he says, rubbing his forehead.
[09:24] * Ami-chan looks up from her readouts, halfway pleased and frustrated by the pronouncement. "Nothing useful?" She asks, sighing.
[09:25] <Anastasia> "Nothing to outright confirm or deny my theory," he nods. "I think we've gotten as much useful information from this as we can... I'd like to go talk to Usagi and the others. Eudial, would you gather them in the Witches office?" At that, the tired redhead merely nods, going off to do just that.
[09:26] * Ami-chan takes off her glasses, rubbing the bridge of her nose. "What do we tell them?" Ami asks him quietly.
[09:29] <Anastasia> "We'll tell them everything, and see about working with the theories I have - I still have a few ideas on how to affect Zirae, Ami."
[09:31] * Ami-chan nods, smiling wanly. "Mm." She agrees.
[09:35] <Anastasia> Heading to the Witches Room, Ami finds Rei, Eudial, Usagi, Chibi Usa, Haruka, and the assorted Witches gathered. Eudial seems to have gotten word out quickly, you note. "What's going on, Professor?" Tellu asks right off the bat, curious.
[09:36] * Usagi-chan is seated at her desk, Chibi Usa sitting in her lap as she gives the Professor a slightly worried look.
[09:37] * Ami-chan stays quiet, but stands behind and to the left of the Professor as she waits.
[09:37] * Rei-chan looks up from her own desk, glad from the respite from her schoolwork. Hopefully it's good news...
[09:39] <Anastasia> The other Witches are scattered about at their desks, though Viluy is somewhat quiet and hanging towards the back...
[09:43] * Haruka is at a seat towards the back and notes Viluy's presence, but keeps her attention on the Professor and Ami's announcements for now.
[09:48] <Anastasia> "Yes. We've been going over the readings we recieved from Zirae's most recent incidents, and I now have a working theory of what exactly he is." Tomoe announces.
[09:50] * Rei-chan nods, waiting for him to go on and hoping said theory includes details on any weaknesses he has.
[12:12] <Anastasia> "But first," Tomoe says, turning to Usagi. "How much do you know about how the Silver Crystal worked?"
[12:14] <Usagi-chan> "HOW it worked? I'm... not sure what you mean. I can explain how *I* used it, but other than that, I don't really have any idea." Usagi says.
[12:15] <Anastasia> Looking at Chibi Usa thoughtfully, "Was it a pool of energy to be used, as the Grail is, or a wellspring of such?"
[12:16] <Anastasia> Turning to Usagi. "I doubt it was now, but did you draw energy directly from it like the Grail?"
[12:17] * Usagi-chan frowns slightly. "It was... sort of hard to explain. It was like a light inside me, and I could rearrange it and shape it to do what I wanted it to do. Not really like the Grail - I DO feel like I'm pulling energy out of that. The Crystal didn't really seem like that."
[12:19] <Anastasia> Nodding thoughtfully, even more so, at that, "Alright, that would fit in with my theory," he nods to Usagi. "I believe I know exactly what Zirae is now."
[12:20] <Usagi-chan> "What is he then?" Usagi asks, her brow furrowed a bit.
[12:20] * Rei-chan looks on interestedly.
[12:23] <Anastasia> "As you all know, there are dimensions beyond this one - the multiverse alone is infinite, then there are the other planes past that. Each plane generates extrodinary amounts of power, far more than any of us could comprehend." Adjusting his glasses a bit, he goes on quickly. "During my research with Germatou, he investigated if a microcosm of a pocket plane - a self-contained universe - could be created.
[12:26] <Anastasia> "Doing so would make a source of power beyond anything we could imagine, easily able to summon Pharaoh 90 once harvested. It was determined that it was theoretically possible, but the energy needed to create one is incredible - beyond what the theorised 'Big Bang' would have generated." Taking a breath but not really stopping, "Obviously, it was dismissed as nonviable."
[12:27] <Rei-chan> "But... wouldn't the energy of the Big Bang also be enough to summon the Pharaoh or anything else?" Rei asks, "It sounds like you're just converting energy you already have into another form. What's the payoff?"
[12:27] <Anastasia> Tomoe nods. "That's why it was dismissed by Germatou. The imput was both impossible and, if achieved, not needed."
[12:28] <Usagi-chan> "So why would anyone make one?" Usagi asks. "Like Rei says, if you've got enough energy to make one, why would you need one?"
[12:29] <Anastasia> "Such an amount of energy would be difficult to control yourself long, I would imagine," he nods. "If one somehow got their hands on enough, it would need to be set in a way that it was stable and accessible, not to mention self-replenishing."
[12:30] * Rei-chan nods understandingly. "In that case I can see the benefit. And that's what Zirae has done?"
[12:31] <Anastasia> "No, Rei," he smiles thinly. "I believe that is what Zirae IS, somewhat. From the readings we got, the microcosm is inside of him. He is a breathing, living universe compacted in a form capable of being used."
[12:32] * Usagi-chan blinks. "What, so he's some sort of infinite source of power himself?"
[12:34] <Anastasia> "Yes," he says simply, as all concerned soak in the information. "He's like the Holy Grail on a grander scale, given sentinence of a sort."
[12:34] * Usagi-chan sighs at that. "Wonderful..." she says with a frown. "So what does he want with the Crystal, if he has that much power himself?"
[12:35] * Rei-chan frowns. "So... how can we use this? Could se seal him into his own pocket universe, somehow?"
[12:35] <Anastasia> Nodding to Usagi, "I believe he can't access it as is - and from the legends and fragments you've provided, I suspect the Crystal is perhaps a key of sorts for him. If he had his power, the Crystal would be a trinket to him. But with an overlaid reality limiting the power he can draw?"
[12:38] * Usagi-chan grimaces. "So if he gets the Crystal, he basically gets unlimited power that he can use any way he wants to."
[12:40] <Anastasia> "If its function is as I suspect, yes." Then turning to Rei again. "I really don't know if that's possible, Rei. Doing so would likely create a paradox - the same universe within the same universe unto infinity. The result is impossible to predict, and it could very well be the end of the solar system or galaxy, if it blew."
[12:40] <Rei-chan> "Uh... okay. Bad idea, then," Rei concedes. "So what can we do?"
[12:42] <Anastasia> "As long as he has that reality around him, we are both safe and utterly in danger. It prevents him from accessing his power, yet it also allows use as a tool. Using it to manipulate the nearby reality to his wishes, he is able to search for the Crystal."
[12:43] * Usagi-chan thinks for a minute. "But he seems to need it, too - both times it's been broken, he left right away."
[12:44] <Anastasia> "It's because I believe he is vulnerable when it is punctured slightly," he nods. "Without it preventing harm from striking him, he can be struck while still unable to access any of his real power."
[12:46] <Rei-chan> "So... if we can hit him hard enough to blow away that field, he'll be vulnerable to normal attacks?" Rei clarifies.
[12:48] <Anastasia> Tomoe nods again. "He should be, yes. And if so... his body could very well be destroyed." He pauses at that, quiet. "If so, there are two possible outcomes. The energy will either spread out naturally and dissipate into the universe. This will have no visible effect to us, as the entire universe will strengthen evenly due to how energy flows. Or... it will spread out in a much more volatile way."
[12:48] * Usagi-chan grimaces at that. "How bad would it be?"
[12:49] <Anastasia> "This is entirely theoretical," he says grimly, slowly, "But... I would expect that the Milky Way galaxy and perhaps the surrounding ones would simply be reduced to a galactic cloud of dust."
[12:50] * Usagi-chan deflates at that. "...just great."
[12:50] <Anastasia> "Professor," Eudial speaks up. "It is possible that the escaping energy could be trapped and contained somehow instead?"
[12:52] <Anastasia> "Theoretically, certainly. Practically?" He looks at the redhead. "Can you come up with a container capable of holding the full might of a few million Holy Grails?"
[12:53] <Usagi-chan> "What about the Grail or the Crystal themselves? Could they help with that somehow?"
[12:53] * Rei-chan frowns thoughtfully. "You said the Crystal acted as a key. So if we did this in Tokyo, would the diffused energy of the Crystal spread throughout the city have any effect on it?"
[12:54] <Anastasia> "The Grail is a well of power, Usagi. It would be flooded over easily, if you pardon the compairson. The Crystal..." he glances over at Chibi Usa. "If yours broke restoring Tokyo... My confidence is only so-so about it having any impact in absorbing the power or changing it and not being shattered itself."
[12:55] <Rei-chan> "Isn't there anything we can do to skew the odds towards a peaceful diffusion?" Rei asks helplessly.
[12:55] <Usagi-chan> "What about redirecting the energy to somewhere else?" Usagi asks.
[12:56] <Anastasia> "I really don't know yet," Professor Tomoe sighs. "Though... that idea holds promise, perhaps. If a strong enough portal was created on the spot to siphon it off to another reality..." he frowns. "It would be sacrificing others for us, though, most likely."
[12:57] <Rei-chan> "What about moving it somewhere in our reality?" Rei asks, "The space between Galaxies is huge after all."
[12:58] <Anastasia> "Another idea," he nods to Rei. "Though, the main problem would be making such a portal at just the right moment."
[12:59] * Rei-chan nods. "We're going to spread really thin, cracking his shield, hitting him hard, and opening a portal all in quick succession..."
[12:59] * Usagi-chan frowns. "It sounds like this whole thing is a huge gamble no matter WHAT we do."
[13:01] <Anastasia> Tomoe nods to both. "Myself and Eudial can handle a portal, I believe. Usagi and the Grail with a bit of backup," he glances over at the Twins, "Can handle cracking his shield. The rest of you will need to act to try and destroy his body as quickly as possible." To Usagi, "The only other option is to sacrifice Chibi Usa and pray his intent is peaceful, Usagi."
[13:01] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "That's not an option," she says, giving the girl on her lap a squeeze.
[13:02] <Rei-chan> "So..." Rei looks around, "We need to all be ready for the next time he appears, if we're going to try this."
[13:02] <Anastasia> "Yes," Viluy says quietly, finally speaking up. "But what about Chibi Usa? What if he stumbles on her before we meet him again?"
[13:03] <Usagi-chan> "She's staying with me almost all the time," Usagi replies. "It's too much of a risk to leave her right now - she's stayed at home with Mom a few times, but other than that she's with me."
[13:06] <Anastasia> Nodding, "We need to prepare then and try to finish this as soon as possible. The longer it takes, the more chances he has to get lucky."
[13:07] * Usagi-chan nods. "And that means finding him again," she says with a sigh. "Do we have any good ideas where he might go next?"
[13:10] <Anastasia> "Gatherings seem to have worked so far," Tellu supplies. "Perhaps just wait at one until you get lucky?"
[13:13] <Rei-chan> "That might be all we can do," Rei nods to Tellu. "I don't think there's any way we can realistically track his movements ourselves - that null-aura makes it impossible to spot him except by sight alone."
[13:14] * Usagi-chan nods, frowning. "Which means we have to hope we get lucky in figuring out where he'll show up next," Usagi says. "And the other question is how long do we prepare for this? Do we start looking now, or will you need time to set things up, Professor?"
[13:16] <Anastasia> "I'll need a couple of days, then I'll need to know where you plan to confront him," he nods. "By... Thursday afternoon, I should be ready."
[13:16] * Rei-chan nod, letting out a breath. "Three days..."
[13:17] * Usagi-chan closes her eyes, giving Chibi Usa a tight hug. "It'll be over soon, Chibi Usa-chan."
[13:20] <Anastasia> "We can hope," Professor Tomoe nods. "Usagi, I want to see you and the Twins in my office now, we'll need to go over some things."
[13:21] * Usagi-chan nods. "Whatever you need, just ask." She glances over at the Twins.
[13:21] <Anastasia> ---
[13:22] <Anastasia> On going upstairs to his office, the Twins go with you. Both are strangely quiet, though.
[13:23] * Usagi-chan is rather silent herself, the knowledge of the knife's edge they're all about to walk all too glaring in her mind.
[13:26] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa is as well, makign it a silent trip upstairs. On arrival, Professor Tomoe gestures for all of you to sit down. "Usagi, you were able to crack Zirae's field, correct?"
[13:27] * Usagi-chan nods. "Yes, when he attacked here a while back."
[13:28] <Anastasia> Nodding back, "You can't support that sort of attack for long, can you, Usagi?"
[13:28] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "Maybe half a minute at the very most, then I'd probably pass out."
[13:29] <Anastasia> He nods. "I thought of that," he admits. Looking at the rather frowning Twins, "I have an idea on how you can supplement your energy, however."
[13:29] * Usagi-chan glances over at the Twins, frowning a bit herself as she catches their demeanor.
[13:30] <Anastasia> "Professor," Cyprine sighs. "We could do it," Ptilol goes on, "But... it would have to be from as soon as possible onward, without breaking. The Grail's too strong with a fresh and undeveloped link."
[13:30] <Usagi-chan> "Link?" Usagi asks.
[13:31] <Anastasia> "Usagi," Cyprine starts, speaking, "Do you remember when we helped Rei at the last battle with the elves' summoned monsters?"
[13:32] * Usagi-chan nods. "When you made her sword stronger, yeah. You did something like that for me when I purified the Doom Tree, too."
[13:34] <Anastasia> Ptilol nods. "It was by making a link with us and using the shared power to strenghten you," Cyprine explains. "Our main skill is linking with each other to create powerful magical effects, but it's also possible for us to link with others."
[13:34] <Usagi-chan> "So you're saying you could do something like that to increase the Grail's energy?" Usagi says curiously.
[13:35] <Anastasia> She nods. "A stronger, more... personal link with time to develop could do so, yes," Ptilol says, Cyprine taking over. "But it would take at least a few days to bond, if not more so. And there are... side effects to such an arrangement."
[13:36] * Usagi-chan sighs. "What kind of side effects?"
[13:37] <Anastasia> "We'll get closer," Cyprine nods, "Telepathy for sure, often unfocused. Sensory sharing and confusion, thought swapping, bodily urges being felt through the link," Ptilol smiles thinly. "It's a very intimate linking, in a way."
[13:38] * Usagi-chan nods slowly. "I remember how confusing - and embarrassing - it was when I first started using telepathy," Usagi says with a slight blush. "I guess this will be like that, only more so?"
[13:39] <Anastasia> Cyprine chuckles. "Kind of. It's funny to wake up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom - except you aren't he one who needs to use it." With a cough, she looks at her twin.
[13:40] * Usagi-chan covers her mouth and giggles. "Must be kind of weird... but if that's what it's going to take to do this, then I'm willing." She looks down at with Chibi Usa with a smile. "Whatever it takes to keep Chibi Usa safe."
[13:41] <Anastasia> Smiling up hopefully, Chibi Usa whispers to you, "Thank you, Mommy..."
[13:42] <Anastasia> "Might as well get started," Cyprine starts, "Right, sister," Ptilol finishes. "Close your eyes, Usagi... chan."
[13:43] * Usagi-chan takes a deep breath as she does so, nodding to the Twins.
[13:45] <Anastasia> You feel something in your mind, somehow. Like something in there, something new. 'Usagi,' Cyprine asks. 'Welcome,' Ptilol supplies. Even though your eyes are closed, for a moment you can see the Professor from a different angle, the slight feeling of an itch on your leg/not your leg...
[13:46] <Usagi-chan> 'Hi,' Usagi responds shyly, resisting the urge to scratch her leg - it wasn't there a minute ago, so she's guessing it's one of the others. 'This is really weird.'
[13:47] <Anastasia> 'Wow,' a feeling of surprise is felt, 'You're taking to this quicker than we thought, Usagi,' the two say. 'You already have the ground work here, if for others.'
[13:48] * Usagi-chan nods, opening her eyes slowly. 'I've gotten used to blocking the others' thoughts out of my head - none of us are really all that careful about watching them usually, so we've all gotten used to just ignoring them when we're not together.'
[13:49] <Anastasia> 'That would explain it... Usagi,' Cyprine says, a shift in feeling and tone to the more serious, 'If you girls were ever of a mind to and wanted to bond far closer, you probably could using yourself as a hub.'
[13:51] <Usagi-chan> 'I'd wondered about that, but it's not something I've ever really followed up on,' the blonde replies. "Wow," she says out loud, blinking a bit. "Been a while since I've heard a new voice in my head," she says with a small grin.
[13:52] <Anastasia> "Yeah," Cyprine agrees. "It's different," Ptilol nods.
[13:53] <Usagi-chan> "Is there anything I need to do on my end?" Usagi asks.
[13:54] <Anastasia> 'We'll want to try someting with the Grail on Thursday morning as a test run,' Ptilol says after a moment. 'And... the balance is different now, so you'll need to spend some time with one of us elsewhere as well.' Elsewhere carries a strange connotation in this, too...
[13:55] <Usagi-chan> 'Elsewhere?' Usagi asks. 'Is that where you go when we only see one of you around?'
[13:55] <Anastasia> 'Yes," Cyprine explains. 'You... you'll see when it happens. We have a bit of time before that, at least another hour or two today.'
[13:57] * Usagi-chan gives Chibi Usa a worried glance. 'How long will I have to spend away?'
[13:58] <Anastasia> 'At least a few hours each day... we won't know for sure, as the balance is different now,' Ptilol explains. 'You can at least sleep for some of it, so you can spend nighttimes watching over her.'
[13:58] <Usagi-chan> 'As long as one of us is always with her, I guess that's all right,' Usagi concedes.
[13:59] <Anastasia> Cyprine nods, strange considering she's talking mentally. 'We... one of us will have to spend the nights at the other's. Our house or your house, Usagi?'
[14:00] <Usagi-chan> 'My house,' Usagi says, sighing a bit. 'Although this is probably going to knock Mom over. Again.'
[14:02] <Anastasia> 'Alright,' Cyprine simply nods again. "Professor, we should go get some sleep, our next cycle is coming in an hour. Please excuse us." Tomoe simply nods at that. "You can teleport already, so... we'll teleport to our sleeping room dowstairs?" Ptilol asks Usagi.
[14:03] <Usagi-chan> "That's fine - let me call Rei to come pick up Chibi Usa first, though," Usagi replies. 'Rei-chan, can you come up to the office for a minute?'
[14:03] <Rei-chan> 'Sure. Be there in a minute,' Rei replies.
[14:04] <Usagi-chan> "She'll be up in a minute," Usagi replies, unsure whether the Twins could hear through her mind or not.
[14:05] <Anastasia> Tomoe nods. "Chibi Usa," he says. "Rei will take you home in a little while." At that, the little girl nods. "Okay..."
[14:05] <Rei-chan> A moment later, the door opens to admit Rei. "You wanted to see me?" she asks, closing it behind her.
[14:06] * Usagi-chan smiles at her love. "Would you take care of Chibi Usa for a while? It looks like I'm going to have to wait here for a while with the Twins."
[14:07] <Anastasia> "It's temporary," Cyprine nods, "But it can't be helped, Rei."
[14:07] * Rei-chan blinks, looking at Usagi and the twins oddly. 'What the...?' Startled out of her reverie by Usagi's words, she shakes her head. "Uh... sure."
[14:07] * Rei-chan walks over to Chibi Usa, still regarding the other three girls. "What's going on?"
[14:07] <Usagi-chan> "I'm in a sort of mind link with Cyprine and Ptilol," Usagi explains. "Hopefully it'll help me when the time to fight Zirae comes."
[14:08] <Anastasia> "It will boost the energy Usagi can use and control," Ptilol nods.
[14:08] <Anastasia> "It should be enough to get you time to do what needs to be done," Cyprine smiles. "We hope."
[14:09] * Rei-chan nods a bit distractedly. "Yes... it's odd. You all feel different with your auras mingled like that..."
[14:10] <Usagi-chan> "Is it that obvious?" Usagi asks, rather surprised - she hadn't expected that to be a side effect.
[14:11] <Anastasia> "It's a far more," Ptilol starts, "Embedded and stronger link, Usagi."
[14:11] <Rei-chan> "Your auras are bleeding into each other's," Rei confirms. "It's just until after we deal with Zirae, right?"
[14:12] * Usagi-chan nods. "As far as I know, yes."
[14:12] <Anastasia> Cyprine nods as well. "It should be, yes." And then Ptilol frowns. "It doesn't extend enough to reach Rei, Usagi. I couldn't contact her like that."
[14:13] * Rei-chan blinks at Ptilol, before shrugging. "Well, I'm sure you guys know what you're doing. Do you just want me to take Chibi Usa-chan to your house, Usagi?"
[14:14] <Usagi-chan> "That's probably the best idea," Usagi says. "And I guess let Mom know I'll be home a little late tonight - I'm going to have to explain this one to her somehow."
[14:15] <Rei-chan> "Why do you have to explain?" Rei asks curiously, "I don't imagine she'd notice the change the way I have."
[14:15] <Anastasia> "Tell her to make sukiyaki, too. It's her best dish, isn't it?" Cyprine asks, thinking after a moment.
[14:17] * Usagi-chan giggles. "It is," Usagi agrees. "They say I'm going to have to spend some time 'elsewhere' while we're like this, so I'm not sure what that's going to mean yet - and we're probably going to end up staying at my house, too. I don't want to leave Chibi Usa alone."
[14:18] <Rei-chan> "Okay," Rei nods, deciding just not to ask. "In that case I'll see you guys later." Taking Chibi Usa's hand, "Ready to go, Chibi Usa-chan?"
[14:20] <Anastasia> "Okay," she says, smiling at Usagi. "See you tonight, Mommy."
[14:20] <Usagi-chan> "See you soon, Chibi Usa-chan," Usagi says, kneeling down to give Chibi Usa a hug before she leaves.
[14:21] <Rei-chan> Giving a small wave, Rei leads Chibi Usa out the office, heading to Usagi's house after leaving the school.
[14:22] <Anastasia> Once Rei is gone, "Ready when you are, Usagi. Just follow our lead, alright?" Cyprine asks.
[14:22] * Usagi-chan nods. "Just show me what I need to do."
[14:23] <Anastasia> "Right now, we're just going to teleport down to our sleeping room. Just follow." At that, the two vanish, leaving a visible train of magical energy as you feel yourself tugged...
[14:24] * Usagi-chan casts her own teleport spell a moment later, following the trail of magic to the Twins' room.
[14:27] <Anastasia> Appearing in a small room downstairs, a large king sized bed with blue sheets and a red quilt takes up most of the room. Oddly, there is no door in or out... "This is it," Cyprine says, the two already sitting on the bed. "Rest for now, Usagi," Ptilol agrees.
[14:27] * Usagi-chan sighs. "All right... THAT much I'm at least good at," she says with a wry smile, taking a seat on the bed herself.
[14:28] <Anastasia> There's enough room to keep your personal space, but you note the Twins are curling up in each other's arms, like how young siblings might, below the blankets.
[14:29] * Usagi-chan gives the Twins as much room as she can, stretching out on the bed and dropping off into a light sleep.
[14:29] <Anastasia> ---
[14:30] <Anastasia> A bit of time later, Usagi is awoken by a simply foreign feeling. A tug, like something is trying to pull you somewhere beyond, almost like a great weight...
[14:31] * Usagi-chan awakes slowly, not resisting the pull at all in her sleep-fogged state.
[14:33] <Anastasia> 'Usagi,' Ptilol says, taking your arm as you see you are still in the sleep room. 'It's time... you can feel it. Just hold on... I'll take us there.'
[14:34] <Usagi-chan> 'All right,' Usagi thinks back groggily.
[14:35] <Anastasia> Saying so, the room simply vanishes. In a gray nothingness for a few seconds, yet you feel yourself going somewhere... into a perfect black void, slightly warm. 'Hm, it's a Dead Zone today,' Ptilol thinks. 'Good luck on our parts, this is the most peaceful area of the Astral Plane'.
[14:36] * Usagi-chan blinks, noting that it doesn't seem to make much of a difference whether her eyes are open or closed. 'Where ARE we?'
[14:37] <Anastasia> 'In a Dead Space Area of the Astral Plane, Usagi. Due to the energy we generate, Cyprine and I are off balance with the Prime Material Plane - the multiverse. We need to give into the pull and spend time around the Astral Plane to correct it periodically.'
[14:38] <Usagi-chan> 'Wow,' Usagi thinks, a bit unnerved by the empty blackness all around her. 'How much time do you spend here?'
[14:40] <Anastasia> 'Three to four hours each day,' is the reply. 'I'm the one who usually does so since my psychic weight, so to speak, is closer to this side.'
[14:40] * Usagi-chan nods. 'I've noticed that it's usually Cyprine that's around when it's just one of you,' Usagi agrees. 'There are other parts of this place? You made it sound like there are other things here besides just... nothing.'
[14:42] <Anastasia> Ptilol nods. 'Yes. There are places where ether streams flow, masses of matter and even land that various entities have brought here, portals and gateways to other places, and so on. As well as the border with other worlds as well. But this is the most common place here - simple warmth and nothingness.' Smiling a bit, unseen, 'This is the best, since you can simply sleep here as there is no threat or anything to interact with.'
[14:42] <Usagi-chan> 'There are threats here?' Usagi thinks back a bit worriedly.
[14:43] <Anastasia> "There can be in some of the other areas,' Ptilol explains. 'It's uncommon, but if someone really wants to pick a fight, it's a good idea that you're prepared. But out in this zone, that's not important.'
[14:44] * Usagi-chan nods. 'I guess I won't worry about it for now, then. How will I know when it's time to go back?'
[14:44] <Anastasia> 'We'll be woken up by the tugging back,' she explains simply, closing her eyes. 'Just rest now, Usagi. It's the best sleep you'll likely get... I know from having slept here far too many times.'
[14:45] <Usagi-chan> 'All right,' Usagi agrees, taking a deep breath to calm her nerves as she tries to get back to sleep.
[14:46] <Anastasia> It's oddly easy to, despite your nerves. The gentle warmth seems to infuse you, almost like how warm Rei-chan is when you are held in her arms at night. Thus, you sleep... until with a pull, you realise the sleeping room is coming back into focus, the embers of truly bizarre dreams lingering, of being other 2.
[14:47] * Usagi-chan once again awakes, the odd tugging sensation pulling her from sleep once again. 'We're back?' she thinks sleepily.
[14:48] <Anastasia> "Yeah," Cyprine says, sitting up on the bed. "You were gone for nearly five hours, Ptilol. Usagi's added weight had you swing farther than you normally would."
[14:48] * Usagi-chan rubs her eyes as she tries to wake up more fully. "What time is it, then?" she says, yawning a bit.
[14:49] <Anastasia> "Nearly dinner time, six PM," Cyprine nods, while Ptilol sighs. "You'll probably be spending your afternoons like that, I'm afraid. It seems to be how the current balance will work."
[14:50] * Usagi-chan grimaces. "I'd probably better get home then," she says. "I guess for now, Rei or one of the others can look after Chibi Usa after school."

[14:52] <Anastasia> ---
[14:52] <Anastasia> While that evening carries some quick dancing, Ikkuko just seems to nod and smile about it at this point, making extra food for two more guests at the table and setting up two futons in Usagi's room.
[14:54] <Anastasia> Thus, Tuesday passes in preparation. It's strange... you spend all your time around the Twins, at times feeling things from the others, and vice versa. Ptilol blushes at one point, mentioning on how she just remembered holding Rei and cuddling, for example, while Usagi got a vague memory of a woman much like Ptilol and Cyprine...
[14:56] <Anastasia> Despite things like that, the day goes go by... and Wednesday occurs, Usagi and Ptilol leaving this world for another Dead Zone just past lunch.
[14:57] <Anastasia> It's just near the end of Chorus class... which, because you are watching Chibi Usa, means you're sitting in the Witches office.
[14:58] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa has been getting restless all day, though, you note. "Can't we go do something, Rei-chan," she asks, squirming in her seat.
[14:58] * Rei-chan looks up from her homework. "Sure, if you want," she smiles at the child. "Anything in particular you'd want to do?"
[14:59] <Anastasia> "Just something besides sitting down here all day," she nods to you. "Can we go get some soda, Rei-chan?"
[14:59] * Rei-chan frowns a little bit. "That's bad for your... wait..." she trails off. "Have you lost your baby teeth yet, Chibi Usa?"
[15:00] <Anastasia> "I've lost one, Rei-chan," she replies, "But another is loose." To that, she reaches into her mouth, wiggling a front tooth just a bit..."
[15:02] * Rei-chan shrugs. "Well, if your adult teeth haven't come in, it hardly makes any difference." Taking a can of soda from her desk, she stands up and gives it to the child. "Now, how about we go out and see if we can find something more interesting to occupy ourselves until Usagi comes back?"
[15:03] <Anastasia> Nodding, "Thanks, Rei-chan," she agrees.
[15:04] <Rei-chan> Taking Chibi Usa's hand, Rei leads the girl out of the office and up into the school proper. "Hmm... guess we could go into the gardens. They're a nice way to kill some time, and we might bump into Tellu," she says thoughtfully.
[15:07] <Anastasia> "That sounds good, Rei-chan," Chibi Usa agrees.
[15:08] <Anastasia> As you walk through the hallways of Mugen, you feel something...(Soul check -3)
[15:08] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6-3
[15:08] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6-3 and gets 5."
[15:08] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[15:08] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[15:09] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa shudders, as a passing student turns transparent. Yet both of you stay solid, even though the little girl is shivering terribly. "Rei-chan!" she gasps.
[15:09] <Anastasia> OOC - All related in Mugen need to make the same check. Get rollin'. Disregard this, Usagi.
[15:10] * Rei-chan tenses. "Stay close to me, Chibi Usa," she says urgently, looking around for that hateful white figure. 'Dammit, it's too soon!'
[15:11] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[15:11] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[15:11] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[15:11] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[15:11] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[15:11] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[15:11] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[15:11] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 2."
[15:11] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[15:11] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[15:12] <Haruka> roll 2d6
[15:12] * Hatbot --> "Haruka rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[15:13] <Ami-chan> roll 2d6-3
[15:13] * Hatbot --> "Ami-chan rolls 2d6-3 and gets 5."
[15:14] <Anastasia> Staggering to her knees, "It hurts, Rei-chan," she shudders completely.
[15:14] * Rei-chan kneels down to pick up Chibi Usa, holding her against her chest while looking around worriedly. "Shh, it's okay, Chibi Usa-chan. I'm here," she tries to soothe the child through her own rising panic.
[15:16] <Rei-chan> Deciding that sticking around would be a bad idea, Rei stands up, still holding Chibi Usa, and runs for the exit, aiming to put as much distance between themselves and the school as she can. This is not the time for any kind of confrontation.
[15:16] <Anastasia> "I'm cold, Rei-chan," she gasps.
[15:17] <Rei-chan> "Just hang on, Chibi Usa," Rei urges breathlessly as she runs.
[15:17] <Anastasia> As you run to it, you are interrupted by a white-clad figure appearing between yourself at the door. Unlike before, he stares intensely at Chibi Usa, almost salivating. "You... finally found you!" he says.
[15:17] * Rei-chan skids to a halt. 'Oh crap!' she thinks, promptly turning around and bolting the other direction with her passenger.
[15:18] <Anastasia> As you do so, he just appears in front of you as you run. "Cease," he calls, pointing at Rei! (Soul check at +1)
[15:18] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6+1
[15:18] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6+1 and gets 9."
[15:20] <Anastasia> Resisting the urge, you nonetheless have to stop lest you bowl into him. As this happens, a trio appears in the hallway - Usagi and the Twins. "Give it to me," he says, advancing on Rei... "Or perish."
[15:21] <Usagi-chan> "Get AWAY from her!" Usagi screams, dashing to position herself between Zirae and the other two.
[15:21] * Rei-chan shakes her head, backing away. "I won't let you hurt her," she says in as firm a voice as she can muster.
[15:23] <Anastasia> OOC - Initiative. He's not going to play nice.
[15:24] <Rei-chan> roll 1d6+10
[15:24] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 1d6+10 and gets 12."
[15:24] <Usagi-chan> roll 1d6+9
[15:24] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 1d6+9 and gets 11."
[15:24] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[15:24] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[15:24] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[15:24] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[15:26] <Anastasia> "Begone, foul Princess," he says, pointing at her. "Freeze." (Soul check, +2)
[15:26] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6+2
[15:26] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6+2 and gets 8."
[15:26] <Usagi-chan> "Not a chance in hell," Usagi says, her eyes narrowed.
[15:26] <Anastasia> Terrible frost and cold swipes around Usagi, yet she stays firm and avoids being encased in the material! (10 frost damage from a burst of exposure.)
[15:28] * Rei-chan backs away, still clutching Chibi Usa protectively. She can't fight while protecting the girl, and even if she did fight, what good would it do? Her best attacks are nothing against Zirae...
[15:29] <Anastasia> 'Usagi, we aren't ready yet,' Ptilol thinks. 'We need to get her out of here!'
[15:30] <Usagi-chan> 'Where?!' Usagi thinks desperately. 'He knows who he's looking for, where could we hide her?'
[15:31] <Anastasia> 'Just away from here! We can't stop him in the middle of the school!" Cyprine fires back mentally.
[15:32] * Usagi-chan nods quickly, running over to Rei and Chibi Usa before thinking to the miko. 'I'm getting us out of here,' she sends. 'He'll follow us, but there's not much we can do here - there's no room to fight.'
[15:33] * Rei-chan nods quickly. 'Whatever you're doing, just do it fast.'
[15:34] <Anastasia> "AAAH!" Chibi Usa cries, a penetrating shriek of pain as the girl begins to glow silver.
[15:34] * Usagi-chan encircles the pair with her arms, quickly casting a teleport spell - taking the three to the rooftop of the school. Close enough that Ami and Haruka might still be able to arrive in time, but with enough room to maneuver.
[15:38] * Sailor_Uranus steps out of her classroom and into the hallway at the sound of Chibi Usa's cry and just catches Usagi and the others disappearing from view. "What the...?" she says aloud before looking around.
[15:42] <Anastasia> Zirae stays but a moment, thinking. "Above," he says, vanishing himself.
[15:42] <Anastasia> Appearing on the wide open rooftops, the sunshine beats down warmly... shining off the silvery girl in Rei's arms, who moans in pain.
[15:43] <Sailor_Uranus> "Above..." Haruka echoes before bolting for the stairs.
[15:43] * Rei-chan clutches Chibi Usa almost desperately. "What are we going to do, Usagi?" she asks, looking around, knowing Zirae won't be far behind them.
[15:44] <Usagi-chan> 'Ami-chan, Mako-chan, if you can hear me get here NOW! Zirae's here - he's found Chibi Usa and we're on the roof at Mugen - get here as fast as you can!' She gives Rei a determined look. "I'm not giving Chibi Usa up. We're going to fight him."
[15:44] <Anastasia> "Mommy," the girl wails. "It hurts! He's ripping me apart!"
[15:45] <Sailor_Mercury> 'Coming.' Ami replies shortly, all of her attention on sprinting for the stairs...
[15:45] <Anastasia> "Usagi," Cyprine starts. "If we're going to fight him, we need to get the Grail ready." Ptilol finishes.
[15:46] * Usagi-chan nods, shifting to the form of Serenity as she draws the Grail out of subspace.
[15:46] <Rei-chan> Shifting her grip on Chibi Usa to cradle her in one arm, Rei holds her transformation pen up with the other. Not sure what good it'll do, but... "Mars Holy Power, Make UP!"
[15:46] <Anastasia> A moment later from that Zirae appears a bit away. "Come to me, my Crystal," he says, ignoring the others. Chibi Usa screams, her body starting to give off bright silver light...
[15:47] <Sailor_Mars> "Stop it!" Rei nearly shrieks, backing away from the 'man' with Chibi Usa. "You're killing her!"
[15:47] <Serenity> "Hang on, Chibi Usa! Fight him!" Usagi calls out to her daughter, knowing that she has to hit Zirae with everything she's got to save her daughter's life.
[15:48] <Anastasia> OOC - Initiative. It's going to take you a full round to set up, Usagi, with the Twins.
[15:48] <Sailor_Mars> roll 1d6+10
[15:48] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 1d6+10 and gets 13."
[15:48] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[15:48] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[15:48] <Serenity> roll 1d6+5
[15:48] * Hatbot --> "Serenity rolls 1d6+5 and gets 7."
[15:48] <Anastasia> "Let's go, Usagi," Ptilol nods, her own power going with her sister's. "Let's hope the bond holds!"
[15:49] <Serenity> "It will," Usagi says determinedly. "It has to."
[15:49] <Anastasia> Ignoring Serenity for the moment, he turns to Rei. "You again impede me? No more! Be rended!" OOC - Soul check +2
[15:49] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6+2
[15:49] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6+2 and gets 8."
[15:50] <Anastasia> Cutting force and reality bloom next to Sailor Mars, all around her! Her fuku is slashed, but only a minor cut on her leg is scored! (10 damage)
[15:50] * Sailor_Mars winces, shifting her weight slightly to the other leg, but remaining upright and defiant!
[15:54] <Anastasia> Weaving the energy of the Grail along the link, the Twins prepare for the sustained attack!
[15:55] <Anastasia> "MOMMY!" Chibi Usa cries! In Rei's arm, the little girl turns to warmth, her body shifting into a smaller, silvery form. In Rei's hand is the Silver Crystal, a tiny pink dot in the center that reflects outward to give the entire gem a pink hue...
[15:56] * Serenity takes a deep breath, her expression one of focus and determination as she prepares to unleash the Grail's full might. The flash from Chibi Usa catches her eye, and her eyes widen in horror. "CHIBI USA! NO!!"
[15:56] <Sailor_Mars> The colour drains entirely from Rei's face. "Chibi Usa!" she screams, grasping futilely as the little girl in her arms dissipates into a tiny gem.
[15:56] <Anastasia> As this happens..."World SHAKING!" Ripping towards Zirae, the impressive attack stops close to Zirae! From the access stairs are Sailors Uranus and Mercury!
[15:57] <Anastasia> The Crystal is warm in Rei's hand, words echoing in her mind. 'MOMMY! SAVE ME, MOMMY!'
[15:58] <Sailor_Mars> 'Hang on, Chibi Usa!' Rei urges desperately, hearing the voice. 'We'll save you!'
[15:59] <Anastasia> OOC - Initiative. Usagi's initiative will be when the Grail attack starts.
[15:59] <Serenity> roll 1d6+5 and pray
[15:59] * Hatbot --> "Serenity rolls 1d6+5 and pray and gets 11."
[15:59] <Sailor_Mars> roll 1d6+10
[15:59] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 1d6+10 and gets 13."
[15:59] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[15:59] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[15:59] <Sailor_Mercury> roll 1d6+11
[15:59] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mercury rolls 1d6+11 and gets 14."
[16:00] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[16:00] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[16:01] <Anastasia> "That's it," the white man smiles, gesturing at the Crystal with an open palm. "COME TO ME! COME!" The full unfelt/unbeing force of Zirae is felt on Rei's body, trying to pull away the Crystal!(Body check+3)
[16:01] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6+3 burning 40 EP
[16:01] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6+3 burning 40 EP and gets 12."
[16:01] <Sailor_Mars> do-over!
[16:01] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6+3 burning 40 EP
[16:01] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6+3 burning 40 EP and gets 7."
[16:02] <Anastasia> Resisting the pull, Rei feels a painful pop as her shoulder is blown by the force, pain welling into her senses!(20 damage) Yet, the Crystal is still in her hand!
[16:03] <Sailor_Mars> "Agh!" Rei cries, tears welling in her eyes as her left arm goes limp, while she cradles the Crystal against her chest with her right.
[16:03] <Anastasia> "Usagi! We're ready!" Cyprine calls quickly. "Hurry!" Ptilol urges.
[16:04] <Serenity> "LEAVE THEM ALONE!" Usagi screams. "You can't have her!" Bringing the Grail up, she grits her teeth as she looses its full force against the one in white, tears stinging the corners of her eyes.
[16:04] <Serenity> roll 2d6
[16:04] * Hatbot --> "Serenity rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[16:05] <Anastasia> Coming forth amplied and supported thrice, power roars out of the Grail like never before! A sea of holy energy crashes into Zirae, sending him several steps back as the two realities clash!
[16:06] <Anastasia> Slowly, like a nut cracking, the sense of incredible power is felt, Zirae's massive aura stunning!(All that can feel make a Soul check at +1 to resist being mesmerized by the full sight of it.)
[16:06] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6+1
[16:06] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6+1 and gets 10."
[16:06] <Serenity> roll 2d6+1
[16:06] * Hatbot --> "Serenity rolls 2d6+1 and gets 9."
[16:06] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[16:06] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[16:06] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[16:06] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[16:08] <Anastasia> "Urgh!" he grunts as the power washes just short of him, battling and pinning down the seal. "I can feel it!" he says with hope. "I can almost feel it now!"
[16:08] <Serenity> "You can't have her!" Usagi shouts. "I will NOT allow it!"
[16:08] <Sailor_Mars> Crying freely, Rei glares at the blurry figure of Zirae through her tears, clutching all that's left of Chibi Usa tightly, she focuses her own magic on Zirae in its rawest form. "Burn!"
[16:08] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6
[16:08] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[16:10] <Anastasia> Through your tears of agony, you can see a bit of fire around Zirae, burning him! Yet he seems to barely notice, intent only on the prize in your hand!
[16:12] <Sailor_Mercury> Ami raises her hands over her head, feet planted firmly apart. Her heart pounding in her chest, she summons the most powerful attack she can muster! Sparkling water vapor strands begin spiraling inward to her outstretched hands to shape into a watery, glistening bird, then she spins around and opens her hands to fire it horizontally, with it solidifying into a jagged and lethal looking bird as it leaves her hands. "MERCURY FROST SHRIKE!"
[16:12] <Sailor_Mercury> roll 2d6
[16:12] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mercury rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[16:14] <Anastasia> The Shrike slams full on into his chest, doing damage and ripping his clothes! Yet he doesn't even buckle, still utterly staring at Chibi Usa! Seeing that attacks are getting through, "World... Shaking!"
[16:14] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[16:14] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[16:14] <Anastasia> A powerful shot indeed, but errant.
[16:15] <Anastasia> OOC - Initiative.
[16:15] <Serenity> roll 1d6+5
[16:15] * Hatbot --> "Serenity rolls 1d6+5 and gets 7."
[16:15] <Sailor_Mercury> roll 1d6+11
[16:15] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mercury rolls 1d6+11 and gets 17."
[16:15] <Sailor_Mars> roll 1d6+10
[16:15] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 1d6+10 and gets 15."
[16:16] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[16:16] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 2."
[16:16] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[16:16] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[16:18] <Anastasia> Power continues to course from Serenity and the Twins, bright light surrounding all three as the Twins support Serenity on either side! Covered in the light of a burning star, the Grail grows hot as it produces more power!
[16:19] * Serenity maintains a deathgrip on the powerful artifact, heedless of the heat it's generating as she focuses solely on defeating the monster that would take her daughter away from her.
[16:19] <Anastasia> Usagi's hands burn a bit, unnoticed to her! (3 damage)
[16:21] * Sailor_Mercury focuses on the avian avatar of her attack, sending it sweeping up into the sky, then diving back down at their foe!
[16:21] <Sailor_Mercury> roll 2d6
[16:21] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mercury rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[16:22] <Anastasia> Again it plunges into him, wracking his body yet drawing no blood, wounding nonetheless!
[16:23] <Anastasia> Grunting in pain, he still keeps a fanatical gaze on the Crystal! "Come to me from that interfering fool!" Power wracks Rei-chan again, trying to rip the Crystal away! (Body check+3)
[16:23] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6 (burning 30 EP)
[16:23] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 (burning 30 EP) and gets 6."
[16:25] <Anastasia> Sailor Mars shrieks as her already injured arm is wracked by a loud crack, her main right armbone shattered four times over, a shard of bone poking through and letting blood pour down her arm! (25 damage.) With primal instincts, her hand nevertheless stays wrapped around it despite pain only rivalled by Orestes and Oxyite's hands!
[16:27] * Sailor_Mars screams even louder in agony, managing a deathgrip on the crystal even as her right arm now falls limp, close by her knees as she hunches over, desperately trying to collect herself.
[16:28] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6 for Rejuve
[16:28] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 for Rejuve and gets 8."
[16:28] <Anastasia> Breathing heavily, Haruka lets loose a "World... Shaking, you bastard!"
[16:28] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[16:28] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[16:29] <Anastasia> Perhaps Haruka is nervous, her shot sailing high into the air and utterly useless!
[16:29] <Anastasia> As this happens, these is a shimmer as elf and Jupiter appear! "What's goin-Rei! Usagi!" Ann calls, eyeing both of them.
[16:31] <Sailor_Jupiter> Taking a quick account of the situation in addition to what Usagi said over the mental link, Makoto wastes no time attacking Zirae as soon as her eyes focus on him. "Supreme Thunder Dragon!"
[16:31] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[16:31] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[16:32] <Anastasia> Electricity shocks Zirae, charring him! Yet still, he is unmovable now, focused only on his long-denied prize!
[16:32] <Anastasia> OOC - Initiative.
[16:32] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 1d6+13
[16:32] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 1d6+13 and gets 17."
[16:32] <Sailor_Mars> roll 1d6+10
[16:32] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 1d6+10 and gets 14."
[16:32] <Sailor_Mercury> roll 1d6+11
[16:32] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mercury rolls 1d6+11 and gets 13."
[16:33] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[16:33] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 4."
[16:33] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[16:33] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[16:33] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[16:33] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 5."
[16:34] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[16:34] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 2."
[16:34] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 1d6
[16:34] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 1d6 and gets 6."
[16:36] <Anastasia> Coming forth from like a torrent of hellish power, a Thunder Dragon goes hard into Zirae! He is blown back, the power of the Grail following him as he craters hard near the edge of the roof!
[16:36] <Anastasia> The entire rooftop buckles with the force of the blast, rocking everyone there!
[16:37] <Anastasia> Yet, despite all logic... Zirae rises, floating and flipping up into a standing position. "ENOUGH!" he calls, despite a missing arm and battered body, a wave of pure white power coming from him! (Body checks + 4, all)
[16:38] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6+1 (burning 30 EP)
[16:38] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6+1 (burning 30 EP) and gets 11."
[16:38] <Sailor_Mars> do-over!
[16:38] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6 (burning 40 EP)
[16:38] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 (burning 40 EP) and gets 10."
[16:38] <Serenity> roll 2d6
[16:38] * Hatbot --> "Serenity rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[16:38] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[16:38] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[16:38] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[16:38] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[16:38] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[16:38] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[16:38] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[16:38] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[16:39] <Anastasia> The world goes white at this force, all hurtled to the rooftop like ants! (10 damage to all, but... stunned.)
[16:39] <Sailor_Mercury> roll 2d6+2 (Burning 20 EP)
[16:39] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mercury rolls 2d6+2 (Burning 20 EP) and gets 9."
[16:42] <Anastasia> Usagi is sent down hard, the Grail flying out of her hands. Looking up when her mind clears from the rush, she sees Zirae standing above Rei... the Silver and Pink Crystal firmly in his remaining hand. "At last," he breathes. "After all these eternities..."
[16:43] <Anastasia> Holding the Crystal, it vanishes...
[16:44] <Anastasia> ... only to reappear embedded in his forehead, shining like a star condensed into a perfect point. "It's finally here..." he actually smiles, his power starting to reach your senses again. "Finally..."
[16:44] * Serenity screams in despair, grabbing the Grail and unleashing her full power against Zirae. "YOU MAY NOT HAVE HER!" she screams, tears streaming from her eyes. "YOU CAN'T HAVE CHIBI USA!"
[16:44] <Serenity> roll 2d6
[16:44] * Hatbot --> "Serenity rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[16:47] <Anastasia> His lost arm reappears, the damage down to his body repairing in an unseen instant. The power of the Grail hits him... but nothing. It's like pouring water into the ocean. Turning as if only a mild breeze were in his face, the starting to tinge pink man smiles. "You still live, Lunarian Princess? Excellent..." he says slowly. "My creator told me vengence was a wonderful thing..."
[16:48] <Serenity> "I'll never give up..." Serenity says, panting as she struggles to her feet. "I will never let you take my daughter away from me!"
[16:49] <Anastasia> As his clothes begin to bleed into a cotton candy pink color, "Foolish. You cannot stop me - that Grail is nothing to me now." Raising an almost dripping pink hand at you. "Prepare to meet oblivion, cursed Lunarian."
[16:50] * Serenity's eyebrows crease at the pink coloration creeping over the form of her foe, but she steels herself for whatever may be coming.
[16:50] <Anastasia> "Uhhh..." Ann moans weakly, trying to rise to her knees. "B... bastard..."
[16:51] <Anastasia> "U... usagi..." Cyprine moans, the girl face down and utterly drained.
[16:51] * Sailor_Mars shakes her head, recovering slightly only to gape in horror at the scene before her. "No!" she cries weakly, struggling to her feet and staggering onto Zirae, almost falling on his outstretched hand. "Don't hurt her!" she begs brokenly, fighting to ignore the pain wracking her entire body, focused around her arms.
[16:52] <Sailor_Jupiter> "What the hell does it take to take this guy down?" Makoto mumbles as she struggles to get back into a fighting position.
[16:52] <Anastasia> "You," he says, turning his attention to Rei. "Little Rei-chan," he says, as said voice begins to become higher and lighter. "Rei-chan... Rei-chan..."
[16:52] * Sailor_Mercury struggles to her feet, and stumbles after Rei. "Leave her alone!" She cries in assent with the fiery senshi.
[16:52] <Serenity> "What on earth?!" Usagi says, her mouth hanging open.
[16:52] <Sailor_Mars> "Wuh...?" Rei looks up at the... pink... man through pain-glazed eyes, her confusion apparent.
[16:53] <Anastasia> Eyes turning the color of Chibi Usa's, "Rei-chan? Mommy?" Chibi Usa's voice comes from his mouth. "Where are you?! It's dark and lonely here! I'm scared!"
[16:53] <Sailor_Mars> "Ch... Chibi Usa...?" Rei gapes, hope beginning to dawn in her defeated expression.
[16:53] <Serenity> "I'm here, Chibi Usa," Usagi says, her motherly instincts overriding her confusion. "Don't be afraid." She wonders how the girl is managing to do this, though...
[16:54] * Sailor_Mercury pauses, staring hard at Zirae, and taps on her earring, pulling down her visor, and hoping the power levels won't defeat any scanning attempts.
[16:54] <Anastasia> "He's here, Mommy! I can see him! Mommy, he's a monster like all the others! He... I can see in him, Mommy!" the girl cries through his lips, Zirae's hands going to his head and shaking it.
[16:55] <Serenity> "Fight him, Chibi Usa," Usagi says with determination. "You can do it, I KNOW you can. He IS a monster - but you can beat him!"
[16:55] <Sailor_Jupiter> "We're going to get you out, kid, just keep fighting Zirae and we'll do the same!" Makoto cries out while standing up with shaky knees. "Usagi's not letting you go and neither are we!"
[16:56] <Sailor_Mars> "You can do it, Chibi Usa," Rei chimes in her affirmation with the others, struggling to stand on her own feet. "We all believe in you!"
[16:56] <Anastasia> "He's... he's nothing but a weapon, Mommy!" Chibi Usa cries after a few mome moments as Zirae struggles. "He's just made to destroy things! It's..." the girl's voice shows tears, even if Zirae doesn't. "It's like those bad men from home, Mommy!"
[16:57] <Serenity> "That's right, Chibi Usa," Usagi says quietly. "And you have to stop him, Chibi Usa. I love you, and I believe in you - you can make him go away, forever. All you have to do is try your best."
[16:58] <Sailor_Mercury> "Keep fighting, Chibi Usa-chan!" Ami urges in agreement, trying to scan as she speaks. "You can do it."
[16:59] <Sailor_Mars> "He doesn't care about anything, Chibi Usa, but you do! Think of the people you love - we're right here with you!" Rei does her best to encourage her 'daughter', knowing the battle is plainly out of her hands and pinning everything on that one little girl.
[17:02] <Anastasia> "Okay, Mommy..." the girl says. Zirae shakes as if in a seizure, his body undergoing a battle far within, his energy fluctuating wildly. If it wasn't so bound, each fluctuation could shatter the world like a glass window...
[17:02] <Serenity> "You're doing it, Chibi Usa!" Usagi says, encouraging her daughter. "You're beating him!"
[17:02] <Sailor_Mars> 'Please, Chibi Usa. Everyone's counting on you...' Rei thinks, earnestly praying for the girl as she looks on.
[17:03] <Anastasia> As he shakes, you notice something. His garments and skin are beginning to whiten again...
[17:04] <Serenity> "Come on, Chibi Usa! Don't let him win!" Usagi shouts. "I believe in you - you've got what it takes to beat him!"
[17:05] <Sailor_Mars> "Don't give in! You're better than him!" Rei throws in desperately.
[17:05] <Anastasia> As white begins to creep back in, Chibi Usa's voice comes in with a certain distance to it. "Mommy, he's too strong!"
[17:06] <Serenity> "He's NOT too strong, Chibi Usa - don't give up! Don't let him take us away from each other!" Usagi says desperately. "I won't give up - and you shouldn't either!"
[17:07] <Anastasia> "Mommy... I'm trying!" she wails, even as the white spreads. There are a few moments of silence, then, as if from a great chasm of distance..."Mommy... said that a lady protects her friends... that Sailor Moon would give anything to save the people she loved... I love you... Mother Usagi..." Chibi Usa says, her voice barely audible. "I'll stop the bad man for you, just like Sailor Moon, Mama..."
[17:08] <Sailor_Mars> "Please, Chibi Usa! Have faith in yourself - you can do it, I know it!" Rei cries, her arms moving to grab Zirae's shoulders before a spasm of pain wracks her from simply trying to move the limbs.
[17:08] <Serenity> "Chibi Usa!" Usagi screams. "Please, you have to beat him!" she sobs. "We can't leave each other like this!"
[17:10] <Anastasia> "Love... you... Usagi..." a barest whisper is heard, overwhelmed by another sound. The sound of crystal shattering. A starpoint of light bursts from the forehead of Zirae, pure light blinding all and filling them... healing them with a warmth of love and caring. (EP/HP recovered fully for all)
[17:11] <Serenity> "CHIBI USA!" Usagi screams, realizing just what the little girl has done. "NO!"
[17:11] <Anastasia> The screams are lost in the roar that follows, as your senses are jarred into full awareness as your bodies and spirits are mended...
[17:13] <Anastasia> Slowly, the light clears and awareness comes back. Amid an undamaged rooftop is Zirae, kneeling and panting. Shards of crystal are stuck in his forehead, bleeding as bursts of energy surround him. "No... dammit... no..." he moans, holding his head. "One little soul did that..."
[17:13] * Serenity turns her gaze towards Zirae, tears streaming from eyes now blazing with fury. "YOU! This is all your fault!"
[17:14] <Sailor_Jupiter> "Chibi Usa..." Makoto whispers before also training her eyes on Zirae. "You evil bastard..."
[17:15] * Sailor_Mercury gasps, her eyes flying open wide as the implications come crashing down on her at once... "Chibi Usa..." She murmurs, tears streaming down her cheeks. "It's not right..." Ice suddenly fills her expression at Usagi's shout, and she turns her gaze on Zirae, no expression left on her normally placid face. "We will kill you."
[17:15] <Sailor_Mars> "You killed her! You monster!" Rei shrieks, falling on Zirae with a savage fury, her hands twisting into claw-like shapes as she seeks to physically rend him in near mindless rage and grief.
[17:16] <Anastasia> Getting near him, a burst of energy impacts Rei, doing no damage but halting her advance by throwing her back a bit as the man rises. "All of you... you pests... you accursed Lunarians again interfere with my purpose..." he says in a shaky voice, power flowing into him in odd rushes.
[17:17] * Sailor_Mars staggers back, glaring hatefully at him as she immediately produces her Ash Rods in hand. "Shut up and DIE!"
[17:17] <Anastasia> OOC - Initiative, I think.
[17:17] <Sailor_Mars> roll 1d6+10
[17:17] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 1d6+10 and gets 13."
[17:17] * Serenity has a white-knuckled grip on the Grail, her normally kind blue eyes now cold as ice. "You've said it to us, and now it's your turn. Die." she says in a voice like a winter storm.
[17:17] <Serenity> roll 1d6+5
[17:17] * Hatbot --> "Serenity rolls 1d6+5 and gets 6."
[17:17] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[17:17] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[17:17] <Sailor_Mercury> roll 1d6+11
[17:17] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mercury rolls 1d6+11 and gets 12."
[17:17] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 1d6+13
[17:17] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 1d6+13 and gets 16."
[17:17] <Anastasia> "You... monster..." Ann says slowly, shaking her head. "We didn't even go as far as to kill innocent children..."
[17:18] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[17:18] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[17:18] <Anastasia> Crying quietly, "Oh... Chibi Usa," Ptilol says, supporting her sister. "It's over for you, monster."
[17:18] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[17:18] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[17:21] <Anastasia> Power flows into the arms of the killer, as he shouts, "I will rend your very soul apart into nothing, Serenity! Nothing is too terrible for your accursed kingdom now!" With that, he fires a blast of white power at Usagi with one hand, and a burst of burning red fire at Ann while the shattered Crystal shines all over! (Everyone makes a Soul check at +1 or loses 20 EP on failure.)
[17:21] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6+1
[17:21] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6+1 and gets 12."
[17:21] <Serenity> roll 2d6+1
[17:21] * Hatbot --> "Serenity rolls 2d6+1 and gets 8."
[17:21] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:21] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[17:21] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6+1
[17:21] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6+1 and gets 6."
[17:21] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:21] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[17:21] <Sailor_Mercury> roll 2d6+1
[17:21] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mercury rolls 2d6+1 and gets 7."
[17:22] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:22] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[17:23] <Anastasia> The fire slams into Ann Grainger like a ball from Hell, burning her amid screams of agony! (75 damage) The girl flails as her body is burning brutually, the smell of fried flesh filling the air...
[17:32] <Sailor_Jupiter> "Ann!" Makoto shouts as she sees her elven friend attacked. "You bastard, stop hurting my friends!"
[17:32] <Sailor_Jupiter> Turning to Haruka, she shouts, "Uranus, let's take him down!" Getting a nod from the blonde, Makoto begins to gather the electrical energy through her tiara and into her hands. "Dragon..."
[17:32] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[17:32] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[17:33] <Sailor_Jupiter> As Makoto gathers her own power, Haruka does the same, raising her palm upwards and as Makoto passes on the energy to combine the attack, she let's loose her own cry. "...Fissure!"
[17:33] <Sailor_Jupiter> roll 2d6
[17:33] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Jupiter rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[17:33] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:33] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[17:36] <Anastasia> Blinking a moment, the force of Zirae evades the Dragon, not losing sight of his new target, Serenity!
[17:36] * Sailor_Mars glances at Ami, catching her eye and beginning her attack, hoping the blue-haired senshi understands the unspoken message.
[17:39] * Sailor_Mercury nods in return, her moves are direct and efficient, graceful, but lacking in the usual flourish. She raises her hands to launch her attack, her expression still grim. "ANTIPODE!" she cries, a glistening stream of blue firing from her outstretched hands!
[17:40] <Sailor_Mercury> roll 2d6
[17:40] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mercury rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[17:41] <Sailor_Mars> Timing herself perfectly with Ami, Rei matches the cry of "Antipode!" as she launches her own steam of superhot plasma at Zirae, aiming to annihilate him with the shock of the temperature differential!
[17:41] <Sailor_Mars> roll 2d6
[17:41] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Mars rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[17:41] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:41] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[17:43] <Anastasia> The Antipode attack fries Zirae's vulnerable skin, cooking and freezing him all at once! He screams but stays up, damaged but alive!
[17:44] * Sailor_Mars wears a look of grim satisfaction at finally hearing Zirae cry out in pain, promising that it will only get worse for him, now.
[17:45] <Anastasia> Still screaming in pain, Ann flops about the ground, using that and her magic to put out the fire. Critically and horrifically burned, the girl just lays there, barely moving. Meanwhile..."Pitlol... Cyprine..." each Twin says to the other, a braided blast of red and blue forming between them and firing off!
[17:45] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:45] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[17:45] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:45] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[17:45] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:45] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[17:45] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:45] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[17:45] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:45] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[17:45] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:45] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[17:46] <Anastasia> As the braided blast slams into Zirae's gut, a gout of fire and a shimmering orb of water blast into his back, sending him rigid. "Fighting gracefully for a new age, Sailor Neptune is here!" Viluy cries, while Eudial just gives her a look, Flame Buster in hand.
[17:47] <Anastasia> From the stairwell entrance the two stand, just out enough now to fire. "Yeah, what she said," Eudial seconds, "We're gonna kick your ass."
[17:48] <Anastasia> Falling to his knees from the burst and holding his head again, light begins to escape from Zirae's body, slowly..
[17:48] * Serenity glares icily at Zirae. "My daughter gave her life to stop you," she says grimly. "I. WILL. NOT. let her have died in vain!" She raises the Holy Grail high, pouring her fury and grief into fueling the most powerful attack from it that she can manage!
[17:48] <Serenity> roll 2d6
[17:48] * Hatbot --> "Serenity rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[17:50] <Anastasia> The power slams into Zirae, the Grail going white hot in Usagi's hands! (15 damage from rather severe burns) Shining almost impossibly bright as it pours power onto him, Zirae buckles! Yet... Usagi can feel something wrong as she holds it. A stutter from the Grail, if you will.
[17:51] * Serenity frowns at the odd sensation from the Grail, grimacing in pain as the superheated artifact burns her hands. She doesn't release it, though - whatever the cost, she's determined to see Chibi Usa's death avenged.
[17:51] <Anastasia> OOC - Soul check +1, rabbit.
[17:51] <Serenity> roll 2d6+1
[17:51] * Hatbot --> "Serenity rolls 2d6+1 and gets 9."
[17:52] <Anastasia> The Grail burns even more as it pours energy into Zirae! There is a flash of light, then another, and another from him..."Damn... Damn you!" he calls, his voice weak now. "It's... My creator! Why? Why can they stop me if I was made to bring destruction?"
[17:53] <Anastasia> With a final flash of escaping light, the world goes dark for all...

[17:53] <Anastasia> ---
[18:28] <Anastasia> Stirring, Usagi's eyes slowly open. Atop the roof of Mugen, it's as bright as high noon. Something is giving off light...
[18:29] * Serenity squints a bit against the light, trying to figure out where it's coming from.
[18:30] <Anastasia> Where Zirae was, there is a bright light. To it from all around fly shards of beautiful Crystal, from all over Tokyo...
[18:31] * Serenity watches in a stunned silence, holding a hand up to shield her eyes from the brightness.
[18:31] <Anastasia> Tiny specks of Crystal continue to gather as Rei and the others begin to stir... all to that one central point.
[18:32] * Sailor_Mars pushes herself up on her forearms, squinting as she looks at the focal point of light.
[18:33] <Anastasia> In the center... something seems to be forming with the Crystal shards...
[18:33] <Serenity> "What... why is this happening?" Usagi whispers, staring at the reforming crystal.
[18:33] <Sailor_Jupiter> As Makoto stirs, she also begins to focus her attention on the light, staring in shocked awe at the reforming crystal. She can say nothing in reply to Usagi.
[18:35] <Anastasia> The light begins to fade as a remade yet dim Crystal now floats there, yet light is coming from near Usagi. Lying on its side on the ground is the Holy Grail, cracked and damaged - or it is before its form melts away, leaving nothing as it turns into a ball of white that flies to the Crystal.
[18:36] <Sailor_Mars> "The Crystal..." Rei breathes, before she chokes slightly on the bitter feeling rising up in her. 'Without Chibi Usa it's meaningless...'
[18:37] * Serenity glances over at the Grail, wincing as she sees the ruined artifact melt away into nothing. "What is it doing?" she repeats, looking back to the Crystal. "Why now?" she says, feeling tears begin to well up in her eyes.
[18:38] <Anastasia> The light flows into the Crystal, sparking it anew! Light pulses in it a moment as it glows softly, once again born. It floats there serenely a moment, before heading over to Usagi.
[18:38] * Sailor_Mars tracks the Crystal with her eyes, feeling a leaden weight in the pit of her stomach.
[18:39] * Serenity holds out her hand for the object, her tears flowing freely. "Why couldn't you have come back in time to save Chibi Usa?" she says brokenly.
[18:40] <Anastasia> The Crystal lands in your hand and glows once, shifting... with a flash of light, Usagi finds Chibi Usa in her arms, naked as the day she was born and asleep, her hair untied and loose all around her. In her forehead now rests the Crystal, as it did in Zirae, instead of a crescent moon, glowing with a soft, warm light.
[18:41] * Sailor_Mars starts, sitting bolt upright. "Chibi Usa?!"
[18:41] * Serenity gasps in astonishment for only a split second, before crushing the child to her chest. "Chibi Usa!"
[18:42] <Anastasia> The girl is warm in your arms as she snores softly, in time with her Crystal shining just a bit.
[18:42] <Sailor_Jupiter> "Oh my god," Makoto says with a relieved but still shocked tone.
[18:43] * Serenity holds on to Chibi Usa like she's afraid the child will disappear again, still weeping - but her tears have changed to joy.
[18:44] <Sailor_Mars> "It's a miracle..." Rei smiles openly, the tension melting off of her in massive relief.
[18:44] <Anastasia> "Uh... whathfuck?" Eudial moans as she rises, her Flame Buster still on. Seeing the scene in front of her, she smiles tiredly... before seeing Ann. "I hate to spoil this, but I think you two need to have a look at elf girl over here," she comments.
[18:45] * Sailor_Mars looks over. "My God, Ann!" she clambers to her feet, hurrying over.
[18:46] <Anastasia> Rushing over, you can see her greenish skin terribly burned, black in several places, her normal garb melted into her skin at places and gone utterly in others. Her aura is weak and flickering, her breathing shallow.
[18:46] * Serenity is too caught in the flood of turbulent emotions pouring through her to notice Eudial, simply rocking Chibi Usa back and forth in her arms.
[18:47] <Sailor_Mars> "Usagi!" Rei snaps loudly. "Ann needs healing. Now!"
[18:48] * Serenity finally snaps out of her reverie, looking over to Rei with a startled expression. "Huh?" Catching sight of the gravely wounded elf, she gasps, still carrying Chibi Usa as she rushes to Ann's side.
[18:49] * Serenity quickly settles down next to the elf, sitting Chibi Usa in her lap as she attempts to heal Ann's horribly burned body.
[18:52] <Anastasia> The healing energy flows into Ann, slowly but weakly mending her. As you do so, you feel a hand on yours. "M... mommy," Chibi Usa whispers.
[18:53] <Serenity> "Thank God you're all right, Chibi Usa," Usagi says tearfully, still trying to do what she can for Ann.
[18:54] * Sailor_Mars smiles down at Chibi Usa, her own eyes starting to shimmer. "You protected everybody, Chibi Usa... just like a real Lady."
[18:55] <Anastasia> The elf's skin slowly heals as you feel your own power start to give - enough to take her out of danger, but she's going to need more help. "I know, Rei-chan," she smiles happily. "I saw everyone fight, too."
[18:55] * Serenity breaks off, breathing heavily. "That's all I can do for her," she says, wiping sweat from her brow. "I don't have anything else to give her."
[18:57] <Anastasia> "Usagi-chan," Chibi Usa whispers. "Use me, Mommy..."
[18:57] <Serenity> "Use... you?" Usagi looks at the girl, not comprehending.
[18:58] <Anastasia> "I... I saw how with Zirae," she says quietly, the girl blinking a moment before a Crystal is in your hand again. 'I want to help you, Mommy.'
[18:59] * Serenity stares in shock at the Crystal - and at the voice in her head, looking at Chibi Usa with a stunned expression.
[19:02] <Anastasia> 'Mommy... Please, I want to help people.'
[19:03] * Serenity nods dumbly, closing her eyes as she focuses on the Crystal in her hand, reaching for its power and shaping it to heal Ann.
[19:03] * Sailor_Mars looks on in shock, but assumes Chibi Usa knew what she was doing just now.
[19:05] <Anastasia> From the Crystal, power flows out and mends Ann's body, healing the poor fallen girl. After that, Chibi Usa is again in your arms. "Thank you, Mommy. I... I would have gone away if you hadn't helped me, Mommy."
[19:06] <Serenity> "But I couldn't help you, Chibi Usa," Usagi says tearfully. "You... you broke the Crystal, and there wasn't anything I could do to help you."
[19:07] <Anastasia> "Mommy... you brought me back... if you hadn't brought those pieces back to me..." she hugs you. "With them, there was enough to heal me, Mommy."
[19:07] <Serenity> "I brought the pieces back?" she says numbly, returning Chibi Usa's embrace.
[19:08] * Sailor_Mars blinks a bit at what she's seeing from Chibi Usa's aura, but shrugs it off easily enough - given what she just saw the girl do, it's really no surprise.
[19:08] <Anastasia> The girl nods. "I... was going away, Mommy, but I felt you calling out to me and they started coming."
[19:09] * Serenity shakes her head, crushing the girl in another tight hug. "It doesn't matter how it happened," she says, beginning to cry again. "You're back now, and you're safe - that's all that matters."
[19:11] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa just hugs you back, tiredly. "Zirae... he scared me, Mommy. He hated you so much..."
[19:11] <Serenity> "He sure sounded like he did," Usagi says, rocking Chibi Usa back and forth in her lap. "But he's gone now - and good riddance."
[19:12] * Sailor_Mars pats Chibi Usa's head. "He might have been scary, but you stood up to him," she says proudly.
[19:13] <Anastasia> Sighing as she helps Viluy up, "Guess that's over," Eudial muses. "No more spending all day reading printouts."
[19:13] <Serenity> "You sure did," Usagi says with a proud smile, letting Chibi Usa go a bit so she can look at her daughter's face. "I'm really proud of you, Chibi Usa-chan."
[19:14] <Anastasia> The Crystal still shines in her forehead, bright and strong. As you look at her, you realise something. You can't see a difference between her aura and the aura of the Crystal now.
[19:14] <Sailor_Mars> "I know we say this every time and we never actually get round to it... but can we have a vacation, now?" Rei asks hopefully, grinning a bit crookedly.
[19:15] * Serenity isn't really all that surprised, given the events of the past few minutes - and the things she'd sensed in Chibi Usa back before this all happened. "I think a vacation sounds like a really good idea," Usagi agrees, smiling a bit past her tears.
[19:15] <Anastasia> "Yeah," Viluy agrees, sending Haruka a look. "How about we get Professor Tomoe to cancel classes for a few weeks and go to Hawaii?"
[19:15] <Anastasia> "Somewhere not so hot," Ann murmurs, her eyes opening. "Did we get the bastard?" she asks, shaking her head as she sits up.
[19:17] <Sailor_Mars> "He's just a bad memory, now," Rei nods, helping Ann up.
[19:17] <Anastasia> "Good," she smiles viciously. "Wish I'd gotten him, though."
[19:18] * Serenity just strokes Chibi Usa's hair gently, smiling down at her daughter. "I'm just so glad you're safe."
[19:31] <Sailor_Uranus> "I could go for cancelling classes," Haruka replies tiredly, giving Viluy a look of her own.
[19:32] <Anastasia> Viluy sends you another back, questioning. "Yeah, a break would be good - none of us really got a nice summer break, you know."
[19:32] <Serenity> "I'd say we've earned it," Usagi says, wiping her eyes on the back of her arm.
[19:33] <Sailor_Mars> "We always say we'll go on a nice holiday after beating the latest threat, but this time we mean it!" Rei declares, nodding quickly.
[19:35] * Sailor_Uranus simply tries to get across to Viluy that they need to talk later.
[19:35] <Serenity> "Yeah, but where should we go?" Usagi says with a smile, letting her arms rest around Chibi Usa in her lap.
[19:36] <Anastasia> Viluy smiles slightly at Haruka. "Why don't we all go downstairs," Sailor Neptune suggests. "In the air conditioning and celebrate our victory?"
[19:36] * Serenity nods to that, giving Chibi Usa a small grin. "And hopefully find someone some clothes," she adds.
[19:36] <Sailor_Mars> "When you can teleport, the world's your oyster," Rei grins, before nodding with Viluy's point. "Yeah, lets get back inside," she adds, briefly scanning the sky in case any newscopters have been watching or anything like that.
[19:37] <Anastasia> You don't see any around or any ground crews, Rei.
[19:38] <Sailor_Mars> Nodding in satisfaction, Rei starts towards the stairwell.
[19:38] * Serenity picks up her daughter, following Rei back inside the school.
[19:39] <Anastasia> Following, Eudial smiles a bit. "I think we should at least all call in sick the rest of the week," she muses, Viluy hesitating and waiting for Haruka.
[19:40] * Sailor_Uranus follows along after the rest, taking her place beside Viluy for the trip downstairs.
[19:41] <Anastasia> As you head inside, "Hey," Viluy says simply to Haruka. "You come out of this okay?"
[19:43] <Sailor_Uranus> "Yeah, I'm fine," Haruka tells her with a smile, the tension finally draining out of her with the conclusion of the battle.
[19:43] <Sailor_Mars> Walking down the stairwell, Rei detransforms with a sigh, rotating her arms a little bit, still surprised at them being healed like that.
[19:44] * Serenity follows Rei's example, returning to her normal form as she carries Chibi Usa. Her sense of relief that her daughter is safe has her feeling like she's on cloud nine, a brilliant smile on her face.
[19:45] <Sailor_Uranus> "Time to change out of work clothes," Haruka comments, dropping her guise with a happy sigh.
[19:47] <Anastasia> Following suit, "We... want to go talk, Haruka?" she asks suddenly. "I don't think they'll miss us right now."
[19:50] <Haruka> "Sure," Haruka replies then grins. "A nice quiet place would be good for a private chat, no?"
[19:53] <Anastasia> Viluy nods, stopping. "Why don't we just go back to the roof?" she suggests, her Mugen uniform sweaty but still somehow crisp and elegant. Someone's been ironing their shirts.
[19:56] <Haruka> "If you want," Haruka responds with a shrug. "Anywhere without much people is good, really."
[19:57] <Anastasia> Turning back around, Viluy heads back outside, going to the side of the roof access, in the shade, and sitting. "Come on," she smiles, patting the concrete next to her.
[20:00] * Haruka takes the seat besides her, shifting slightly to get comfortable.
[20:01] <Anastasia> "So..." she says quietly, staring ahead at where Zirae was. "I guess I'm not so perfectly graceful afterall, am I?"
[20:04] <Haruka> "I think you're perfectly graceful," Haruka comments, staring up at the sky happily. "Is that enough?"
[20:06] <Anastasia> "Yeah," she smiles to Haruka. "Maybe it is." At that, she gently takes your hand. "I still love you," she says plainly. "Or Michiru does... or is there even a difference now," she says with a small, tired smile.
[20:09] <Haruka> "There is a difference," Haruka tells Viluy, squeezing her hand reassuringly. "Michiru is Michiru, Viluy is Viluy," she says simply.
[20:10] <Anastasia> Smiling back, "Yeah... but..." she falters a bit. "I wish in a way I... that I should try to love you anyway, Haruka. I really do, but I just can't seem to."
[20:15] <Haruka> "Don't force yourself to do anything that doesn't come natural to you," Haruka scolds Viluy lightly, though the silent voices within her whisper otherwise.
[20:16] <Anastasia> "It doesn't, but..." she looks away. "I kind of want to be unnatural with you, Haruka. I want to hold you, kiss you, love you, even if it makes a part of me freak."
[20:20] * Haruka puts an arm around Viluy. Partly to comfort the confused girl, but partly to hide the sad smile that flashes across her feature. "I don't want you to change who you are for my sake, and I'm sure Michiru wouldn't really want that for you either..." she trails off softly.
[20:21] <Anastasia> Working her way into your arms a bit, "...Are you sure, Haruka," she asks strangely, almost torn.
[20:26] <Haruka> "I know we would make personal sacrifices for each other without hesitation," Haruka begins wistfully. "But forcing sacrifices onto others?" She pauses at that, rolling it around in her mind. "Who I am now, I don't think I could do it. Maybe my other self could've..."
[20:29] <Anastasia> Viluy closes her eyes, blowing out a breath. "If... if you're sure, I'll go, Haruka," she says quietly.
[20:32] * Haruka doesn't release her hold of Viluy though. "That's what my mind tells me at least..." she adds in equally soft tones. "But..." she trails off uncertainly, not sure if she should continue.
[20:33] <Anastasia> Viluy pauses, thinking several moments. "But...?" she asks softly, looking at you with more emotions than you can count. Confusion, hope, fear...
[20:38] <Haruka> "My heart and body are as stubborn and unreasonable as their master..." she whispers. "They don't want to let you go..." Haruka admits, choking slightly on the wild feelings bubbling and churning within her.
[20:40] <Anastasia> "..." Viluy looks down, taking out the Neptune Pen and holding it to her chest. "I... I..." she whispers. "It's your choice, Haruka," she says finally. "If you want to... I'll kiss you right now and we'll see what comes of it. If not... I'll go and we'll just be friends..."
[20:50] * Haruka touches foreheads with Viluy as she draws her close. "My choice is..." she begins slowly as her heart thunders in her chest. "I'm not letting you go," Haruka finishes by closing the distance between them and capturing Viluy's lips.
[20:52] <Anastasia> Viluy gasps as you take her close, her lips warm as her own tongue cautiously meets your own. Even as it does, it feels familiar somehow...
[20:54] <Anastasia> Her arms, though, start to work around you slowly, perhaps a glimmer of a forgotten feeling working as they embrace you..
[21:06] * Haruka simply holds Viluy close, losing herself in the new and old sensations that this contact brings. She is helpless to hold back the few trickles of tears that escape - joy, relief, all her emotions contained within each droplet.
[21:07] <Anastasia> Slowly, the kiss breaks, Viluy also crying with a strangely mixed smile. "I... love you, Haruka. We'll see how it goes... my love." she wipes her eyes, yet still crying, then moving in close to hug. "We'll see how it goes..."
[21:10] <Haruka> Not trusting mere words to describe her feelings, nor her lips to deliver them, Haruka simply holds Viluy close with an unspoken wish that this moment never end.
[21:11] <Anastasia> While it can't last forever... it does last a goodly long time, and when it ends... Sitting up a bit, "Let's go to your apartment, Haruka - not like THAT," she says hastily, smiling. "I... just want to be with you, read with you, watch a movie, eat dinner. Something like that."
[21:18] * Haruka stares blankly a moment at Viluy's quick correction before what she says trickles through, causing a chuckle to escape her. "I'd like that," she responds with a genuine smile at the other activities.
[21:19] <Anastasia> Smiling and again wiping her eyes, she rises. "Let's go, then. You have a car, Haruka?" she asks, remembering.
[21:24] <Haruka> "Indeed I do," she affirms. "The ride back home won't be so lonely now. Well, I hope Usagi and the others understand," she adds, while taking hold of Viluy's hand and leading her to the car.
[21:24] <Anastasia> "They will," Viluy smiles, squeezing your hand. "With Chibi Usa there and all that noise, they won't even notice us being gone."
[21:29] <Haruka> "Good. I love it when things work out," Haruka replies with a grin.
[21:32] <Anastasia> Smiling back still, "And they... they will."
[10:41] <Anastasia> ---
[10:43] <Anastasia> What a day. Zirae is gone, Chibi Usa is back... and in a way, so is the Silver Crystal. The girls gather downstairs, a rest of sorts after a fierce battle. Hotaru, Rei, Usagi and Chibi Usa (now clad in some loose gym clothes gotten on the fly) sit in one corner together, while Makoto, Ann and Tellu have ended up in another huddle. Eudial's gone off to get a few other people while the Twins linger near Usagi...
[10:44] <Anastasia> and now that you think of it, Haruka and Viluy aren't even here. This leaves you somewhat out of it, almost alone at the moment despite all the people here.
[10:48] * Ami-chan surveys the room, eyeing her friends, happy they've made it through... albeit somewhat narrowly, but they're still alive. Nonetheless, she feels somewhat at loose ends, and walks over to a seat near the wall, and sits down with a sigh.
[10:53] <Anastasia> A few minutes pass, until Eudial quietly enters again. Everyone is more or less wrapped up in their own conversations, so this goes largely without note. Until, that is, she comes up to you. "Ami, Professor Tomoe wants to see you," she nods. "We need to do some wrapup and put this stupid Zirae junk behind us."
[10:57] * Ami-chan blinks up at Eudial, nodding a little tiredly, but brightening at the prospect of something to do. She stands, nodding to the older girl. "Let's go."
[10:59] <Anastasia> Exiting out, Eudial doesn't seem to be talkative right now. If anything, she gives you the impression of being tired and out-of-sorts in her way. Though - you don't have too much time to think about it, as as you begin to head to the elevator, you come across a late arrivial - Herb.
[11:01] <Anastasia> "Hi," Eudial manages shortly. "Everyone's in the office... you just missed Zirae again."
[11:02] * Ami-chan blinks, suddenly realizing that their group had been short a member, and smiles to the senshi of dragons. She nods in greeting. "You missed the final festivities, I'm afraid."
[11:04] <Prince_Herb> "What happened? How did you get rid of him?" Herb asks. "Was anyone hurt?"
[11:06] <Ami-chan> "Yes, but we're all fine now." Ami supplies, stretching a little. "We're on our way up. Can the others fill you in?" she deflects politely.
[11:07] <Anastasia> Eudial nods. "Usagi or Rei will be more than happy to fill you in, Herb," she comments. "We're on our way to Professor Tomoe's office right now, so if you excuse us..."
[11:08] <Prince_Herb> "I'm sure they will." says Herb, "Rei-chan's especially good at that. I'll catch up with you two later, then."
[11:08] * Ami-chan waves, then turns, heading for the elevator.
[11:09] * Prince_Herb waves back and heads for the office, where hopefully, the queen and her paramour are still waiting.
[11:09] <Anastasia> Once in the elevator and rising, "Huh, surprised he missed that," Eudial notes. "That guy seems to have really bad timing."
[11:10] * Ami-chan smiles slightly. "He does. Though he gives it his all."
[11:13] <Anastasia> Eudial nods. "Everyone did," she says tiredly, then yawns cavernlously. "It's over, though... I'm so going to call in tomorrow and sleep all day."
[11:15] <Ami-chan> Ami smiles. "You earned it." she agrees. "I'm just happy this is dealt with... and that Usagi-chan got Chibi Usa back."
[11:16] <Anastasia> "Yeah," she says, glancing up at the lit 4 on the floor listing. "Poor kid's been through hell three times now? Four?" she asks as the door opens on floor five.
[11:18] <Ami-chan> Ami leans against the wall, shaking her head. "At least. She's an impressive little girl... I would have had a nervous breakdown by now if this had happened to me at her age..."
[11:20] <Anastasia> Walking out, "Yeah, if not for Usagi," she muses. "How many people can say that recently, Ami?"
[11:23] * Ami-chan nods, following Eudial as they leave the elevator. "Mm. True enough... with what we do, we really are fortunate, despite the difficulties."
[11:26] <Anastasia> Eudial nods, pondering that as you enter Professor Tomoe's office. "Ami, Eudial," he nods from behind his desk. "Congratulations."
[11:32] <Ami-chan> "Uhm... what for, professor?" Ami asks, puzzled, following Eudial in and closing the door behind herself.
[11:51] <Anastasia> "Just for having helped deal with Zirae," he smiles slightly. "I'm glad that mess is done with now."
[11:55] * Ami-chan smiles a little. "Thank you..." she murmurs warmly. "I as well," she agreed.
[12:00] <Anastasia> Eudial nods, agreeing. "Yeah, done with. What do you need us for. Professor?"
[12:07] <Anastasia> "Mainly to go over the data on Zirae's last hurrah," he nods. "And what happened afterward."
[12:09] * Ami-chan nods, suddenly interested. "I would like to see what the readouts say." She agrees, thoughtful. "There was a lot I didn't see, and what I did see I'm not sure I understood..."
[13:01] <Anastasia> Tomoe nods. "It seems a fair deal of what happened was too much for my sensors, but I did get a few readings."
[13:03] * Ami-chan leans forward a little, the curiosity almost visible in her eyes. "Was there anything significant, or just more pieces to the puzzle?"
[13:05] <Anastasia> Tome frowns just a bit, nodding. "Most of the readings from the roof were simply too much, but I did get something relevant at the end," he nods. "All of the energy around the city came together at one focal point - Chibi Usa. There was a massive influx of energy, much like the feat Usagi pulled off against Zirae last time."
[13:10] <Ami-chan> Ami blinks, a puzzled expression flitting across her face. "I wonder... was she duplicating Usagi's feat, or was it a type of interaction between the two shattered crystals, like it absorbed the grail?" Ami wonders. "Or something else entirely?"
[13:13] <Anastasia> Professor Tomoe shakes his head. "I'm really not sure, Ami. The energy readings are massive even for the ones we got, and I've barely had time to go over them."
[13:17] * Ami-chan nods a little, abashed, and coloring slightly. "Sorry. I got ahead of myself." she murmurs.
[13:19] <Anastasia> Smiling a bit to you, "That's alright, Ami. I wanted to give you a copy of the readings as well to go over."
[13:26] * Ami-chan nods, smiling back. "Certainly." she agrees, almost cheerfully now, the weariness post-battle pushed aside for the moment. "When can we start?"
[13:33] <Anastasia> "We can start tomorrow... there isn't a pressing need now, I suppose," he says after a moment of thought.
[13:37] * Ami-chan blinks. "I don't mind starting now." She offers, smiling a bit embarrassedly. "I don't have anything pressing at the moment..."
[13:41] <Anastasia> "Oh no," Eudial speaks up. "We ARE NOT going back down to that damn lab today," she says strongly. "If anything, we are going to celebrate kicking that bastard Zirae's ass."
[13:42] <Anastasia> Standing up swiftly, she heads over to Ami, hands on Ami's shoulders. "We're gonna go and have ourselves a celebration, right Ami?"
[13:43] * Ami-chan blinks in suprise at Eudial's vehemence. "We are?"
[13:46] <Anastasia> She nods, almost shaking you with her fervor. "Us three are going to go out and do JUST that," she nods to Professor Tomoe. For his part, the Professor looks on with a small smile at Eudial's outburst. "I... suppose a break and a celebration would be nice," he thinks. "We should see if any of the other girls wish to go, though, and do it proper."
[13:50] * Ami-chan blushes and nods, giving in. "It can't hurt..." she murmurs, giggling a little at the intensity of Eudial's fervor.
[10:57] <Anastasia> "Right," Eudial smiles back. "I'll go ask them right now... don't run off into a book, Ami," Eudial goes on, leaving quickly. Shaking his head after the Witch leaves, "I suppose a celebration won't hurt anyone..."
[10:59] * Ami-chan nods, giving the door Eudial fled out a bemused look. "We do have cause for it, I suppose." Ami shrugs, with a bemused smile.
[11:01] <Anastasia> "Yes," Professor Tomoe says quietly. "Hopefully... we'll be celebrating the end of the troubles in Tokyo, or at least a very long peace."
[11:05] <Ami-chan> Ami nods, leaning back in her chair. "I hope so." she sighed, brushing an unruly lock of hair behind her ear. "We've been through so much, recently..."
[11:08] <Anastasia> Meanwhile...
[11:10] <Anastasia> ---
[11:12] <Anastasia> It's over. The walk back down to the Witches office was almost a dream - you remembering running off to the locker room to get Chibi Usa some borrowed clothes of a sort, then heading to the office. It's not until you and Usagi are sitting and leaning on each other, with Chibi Usa on your lap and Hotaru having hijacked a chair and sitting nearby, that your senses really start to clear. The two rabbits are holding each other, half dozing after the extreme emotional toll of the day. The Twins are lingering nearby, strangely like hovering stars...
[11:13] * Rei-chan smiles tiredly, content to relax now with her 'family'. After what she's just been through, she really deserves it, she thinks, negligently rubbing her left shoulder.
[11:14] <Anastasia> "Is your shoulder alright, Rei-chan?" Hotaru asks on catching you doing that. As she asks, you idly note Eudial and Ami talking, the two leaving the room.
[11:16] <Rei-chan> "It's fine, now," Rei nods, stretching her arms a bit. "Good thing, too. With the way it got torn out I'd have been worried about it healing properly..."
[11:17] <Anastasia> "Torn out, Rei-chan?" Hotaru frowns at that. "Did... did Zirae do that?"
[11:19] * Rei-chan nods, frowning a bit herself. "When he was... trying to take Chibi Usa..." she says, glancing at said child with a relieved smile. At least everything's okay, now.
[11:19] <Anastasia> The girl frowns even more herself. "He's gone now, though," she reminds herself. "So Chibi Usa-chan and all of you are safe now?"
[11:22] <Rei-chan> "We are," Rei smiles. "Zirae won't hurt anyone ever again." She gently strokes Chibi Usa's cotton-candy hair as she speaks quietly to Hotaru, "Chibi Usa herself did most of the work, there..."
[11:24] <Anastasia> As this is spoken, the door to the office opens to admit Herb, Hotaru glancing over to him.
[11:27] * Rei-chan glances over briefly, before giving her attention back to Hotaru. "We're going to take a vacation after this, for sure," she informs her little sister. "Maybe Hawaii... or Okinawa. If you want to come...?" she offers.
[11:27] * Prince_Herb waves. "Hi there. Ami-chan told me I missed something big." he says, "and I'm sorry I let you down by not being on hand."
[11:32] <Rei-chan> "It's all over. Zirae's gone, Herb," Rei pipes up distractedly.
[11:37] * Prince_Herb nods. "How did it happen?" he asks, "Ami-chan said it was a tough one, and people got hurt, but she said you'd have the details."
[11:50] <Anastasia> Hotaru smiles at Rei, but demurs due to the other man. "Rei-chan was there."
[11:51] * Prince_Herb takes a seat in the office and waits to see if he's going to get anything more.
[11:51] * Prince_Herb looks at Rei-chan.
[11:52] * Rei-chan sighs tiredly. "I don't even really understand everything that happened, myself," she answers Herb. "Everyone's okay now, and Zirae's gone. That's enough for me."
[11:55] <Prince_Herb> "I suppose so. As long as Chibi Usa's safe again, then that's the main thing. I'm just curious about what I might have missed."
[11:57] * Rei-chan snorts lightly, trying not to disturb said dozing child. "You're lucky you missed it, really. But it all turned out well in the end."
[12:02] <Prince_Herb> "All's well, then. I guess I might as well just get on with things." Herb smiles, and picks up the work he left in the office earlier in the week. "I'll see you around." he says, and heads for the door. "I hear Bermuda is nice this time of year, if you were looking for a holiday spot." he says, and then is gone.
[12:03] * Rei-chan just nods as Herb departs, smiling down at Chibi Usa...
[11:11] <Anastasia> Still mostly resting and talking in their own groups, the relative calm is baseball-bat-to-a-window shattered by Eudial entering, a big grin on her face. "Hey," she calls.
[11:11] * Rei-chan looks over at the door. "Hey, Eudial," she replies quietly.
[11:13] <Anastasia> Tellu murmurs a greetign as well, glancing up from Makoto and Ann. The Twins do likewise, rather subdued themselves.
[11:15] <Anastasia> "Anyway," she nods quickly, "We're going to have a celebration for icing Zirae." Eudial says, as if that explains it all.
[11:16] * Rei-chan nods. "I know," she smiles, quite relaxed and making no movement. After all, the celebration can come after a nice long rest.
[11:18] <Anastasia> Still smiling, "C'mon, we're going to go out and have some fun," she nods, as the other Witches send each other various looks. "As in, right now, Eudial?" Tellu asks quietly.
[11:19] <Rei-chan> "We're all pretty tired right now, Eudial," Rei notes with a significant glance at the dozing rabbits.
[11:21] <Makoto> "Partying right now wouldn't be too much fun," Makoto says in agreement with Rei.
[11:24] <Anastasia> "Yeah," Cyprine says, sounding rather drained herself. "How about later, Eudial?" Ptilol nods.
[11:25] <Anastasia> The redhead sighs at the response, but at least has the good grace not to make an argument out of it. "Fine, fine. I guess none of you feel up to anything right now?" she asks, leaving it as a hanging question.
[11:25] * Rei-chan nods. "Right now I just want to relax," she says with a fond smile that encompasses Hotaru and the two Usagi's.
[11:30] <Anastasia> Deflating, "Yeah, I guess," she agrees. "How about tonight, or tomorrow?"
[11:31] <Rei-chan> "Tomorrow would probably be best," Rei offers, looking around for agreement from the others. "I'm probably going to have an early night, tonight."
[11:33] <Anastasia> "Sure," Cyprine shrugs, the girl right now looking on at Chibi Usa.
[11:38] <Anastasia> Nodding and retreating at that, Eudial goes off and out at a more... sedate pace...
[11:39] * Rei-chan chuckles softly. "I can't blame her for wanting to have fun now, but that battle just took a lot out of the rest of us... we'll make it up, tomorrow."
[11:42] * Makoto stretches on her seat. "I'm actually not feeling that bad, but it's no fun partying without everybody."
[11:45] * Rei-chan shrugs, covering a yawn with her hand. "I probably could manage myself by tonight, but... eh, I just want to take it easy, anyway."
[11:47] <Anastasia> "It's been a long couple of days," Cyprine agrees, Ptilol nodding. "Usagi looks exhausted..."
[11:48] * Rei-chan nods. "I hope we never have to go through a fight like that ever again."
[11:49] * Makoto also nods. "I was really scared about Chibi-Usa for a while there."
[11:51] <Rei-chan> Smiling a bit, "She really is a brave little girl..." Rei says.
[11:51] <Anastasia> "And a lucky one," Ptilol murmurs softly.
[11:52] <Rei-chan> "If she was lucky then she wouldn't have had to go through any of that... at least she's okay now, though. That's what matters most."
[11:55] <Makoto> "And hopefully, she won't have to worry about anything else until she grows interested in boys," Makoto says with a smile that turns into a grin as she adds, "...or girls."
[11:56] * Rei-chan snorts lightly at that, amused. "I'm sure she'll be causing enough worry herself by then."
[14:16] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[14:17] <Sailor_Anastasia> After Eudial comes and goes, Usagi continues to half doze, daughter in her arms. Finally, though, the little rabbit stirs slowly, looking up. "Rei-chan," she whispers, seeing as her mother is still snoring.
[14:18] * Rei-chan smiles down at Chibi Usa. "Yes?" she asks quietly, not wanting to disturb the blonde.
[14:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Can you take me to the bathroom, Rei-chan?" she says, wiggling out of the more soundly asleep Usagi's arms.
[14:20] * Rei-chan nods. "Sure," carefully working herself loose from Usagi and pushing her up a bit so she leans back on the couch rather than to the side, Rei gets up with Chibi Usa, leading her out the office and across to the Witches 'facilities'.
[14:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> Going to the small bathroom just outside the office, Chibi Usa surprises you. She reaches up for your hand as you walk out, almost hesitantly.
[14:22] * Rei-chan takes Chibi Usa's hand, giving it a squeeze as she smiles down at the child.
[14:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Rei-chan," she says quietly as you she takes it, smiling back up. "I... love Mommy, Rei-chan. Both of my Mommies... and I love my Daddies, too." Coming closer to your leg, "I don't want to be alone again like that, Rei-chan... no one will leave me alone again?"
[14:26] * Rei-chan shakes her head. "No, Chibi Usa. We'll never leave you alone..." She kneels down to be more level with the child as she speaks, her eyes shimmering a bit. "I... I love you too, and..." impulsively she grabs Chibi Usa in a tight hug, "Oh, God. I'm so proud of you, Chibi Usa," she gets out, sounding a little bit choked.
[14:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> Hugging you back, "Thank you... Daddy," she says, voice somehow clingy. "If I'm not alone, I know I can make it," Chibi Usa smiles at you. "Mommy wouldn't let me go, Rei-chan. She wouldn't let me go away and be alone again."
[14:32] * Rei-chan nods as she pulls back to look at the pink-haired girl, warmed by the sentiment even if she thinks it'll take some getting used to being called 'Daddy'. "Usagi would never let you go, Chibi Usa-chan. She loves you just as much as you love her."
[14:36] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I know," she smiles at you warmly now. "I'm not alone anymore... I have Mommy, Daddy, Mako-chan, Haru-chan, and all of those funny girls here, too."
[14:39] * Rei-chan smirks a bit at the 'funny girls' descriptor for her friends. "Yeah. We're all here for you, Chibi Usa," she replies, giving the girl's shoulder a squeeze. "Now go on and do your business so we can get back to your Mommy and all the funny girls," she adds, tilting her head towards the bathroom.
[14:40] <Sailor_Anastasia> ----
[14:40] <Sailor_Anastasia> Meanwhile...
[14:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> Stirring, Usagi finds only fragments of her day penetrating her mind amid one thing that gives her a strange thrill of terror. Chibi Usa isn't in hre arms or nearby.
[14:42] * Usagi-chan comes awake rather quickly, almost panicking as she notes the lack of her daughter. "Chibi Usa?!" She looks around wildly, wondering where the girl is.
[14:43] <Sailor_Anastasia> "She went to the bathroom with Rei," Cyprine says from beind you.
[14:44] * Usagi-chan looks over at Cyprine, relaxing a bit as she registers the words. "Oh... thanks." She blinks a bit, trying to clear her head.
[14:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Are you alright, Usagi," Ptilol asks, staring down with a touch of concern. "You look pale."
[14:47] * Usagi-chan nods slowly, still feeling a bit shaky between the day's exertion and the sudden shock she just woke up to. "I'll be okay... just need to rest, probably."
[13:54] <Ebiris> As Usagi and the twins converse, the door opens once more to admit Rei and Chibi Usa, the miko smiling at Usagi as she leads the pink-haired girl by the hand back to the couch.
[13:55] * Usagi-chan looks around at the new arrivals, visibly relaxing as she catches sight of Chibi Usa.
[13:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Mommy's awake," Chibi Usa smiles, letting go of Rei's hand to make a quick approach to Usagi, hugging away. "Thank you, Mommy... you didn't let me be alone again."
[13:56] * Rei-chan smiles at that, sitting down next to Usagi once more.
[13:57] * Usagi-chan gathers Chibi Usa into her arms gently, smiling as she embraces her daughter. "I couldn't let you just die like that, Chibi Usa-chan," Usagi says softly. "I'm just so glad you're safe."
[14:01] <Sailor_Anastasia> From in your arms, "You really kept your promise, Mommy. I'm not alone... not anymore." she hugs you. "Not like I was there with... it..."
[14:03] * Usagi-chan gently rubs Chibi Usa's back. "I told you I'd stay with you," she says reassuringly. "It doesn't matter who or what tries to get in the way - I'm sticking to my promises."
[14:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> Sighing happily in your arms, "But... that thing... you stopped him. I saw him and he scared me so much..."
[14:06] <Usagi-chan> "I couldn't have done it without you," Usagi says, giving the girl a tight squeeze. "I'm sorry it was so scary - I wish you hadn't had to go through it at all."
[14:07] <Sailor_Anastasia> "And... Mommy," she says, seriously in both tone and in how scared she sounds. "If... he kept seeing this face, Mommy. If that person comes here, you'll protect us from him, too?"
[14:08] * Rei-chan looks down at Chibi Usa a little worriedly. "His creator?"
[14:08] * Usagi-chan nods, remembering Zirae's words about his Creator. "I don't care who it is - I won't let anyone separate us. If he comes here, we'll take care of it then."
[14:09] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nodding, "Sailor Moon will stop him... and Sailor Mars, too."
[14:10] * Rei-chan nods, heartened by Chibi Usa's confidence. "We will, Chibi Usa. We will."
[14:10] <Usagi-chan> "Darn right we will," Usagi says, her smile broadening.
[14:13] <Sailor_Anastasia> Smiling, "Then... when that's done, we'll go home and have dinner, all of us and then I call fall asleep in Mommy and Daddy's bed?"
[14:14] <Usagi-chan> "You sure can," Usagi says with a smile, leaning back a bit from Chibi Usa. "We can all have a nice long nap."
[14:15] <Rei-chan> "Works for me," Rei nods her assent.
[14:20] <Sailor_Anastasia> Smiling up at Usagi, "Can we all go to bed together tonight in Mommy's room?" she asks, hopefully.
[14:21] * Usagi-chan makes a slight face. "I think Grandma might have something to say about Rei-chan sleeping over," she says wryly. "I'd love to do it, personally, but I don't think it's such a good idea."
[14:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Mommy," she half pleads, "Then... how about Rei-chan's house?"
[14:25] * Usagi-chan thinks for a minute. "I might be able to manage getting us up to the Moon in a few hours," Usagi says after a few moments consideration. "I'm just kind of wiped out after that fight right now."
[14:27] <Rei-chan> "Well, you two could stay at the Shrine tonight instead?" Rei offers. "No sense stressing yourself over the teleport when we're supposed to be relaxing."
[14:28] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "It's not that big a deal as long as I take my time getting us there. And I'd like to sleep up there - it's been a while. We haven't really had time to spend up there lately."
[14:29] <Rei-chan> "If you're sure," Rei concedes.
[14:30] * Usagi-chan nods, smiling a bit. "I'm sure."
[14:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> "The Moon," Chibi Usa nods. "Grandmother mentioned it, but I haven't been up there..."
[14:32] * Usagi-chan nods. "We haven't really had time since we got back to visit up there much," Usagi agrees. "I hope things will settle down enough now that we can finally start doing things up there again."
[14:34] <Rei-chan> "Yeah," Rei agrees, "We've barely been up just enough to look after the plants, never mind getting any new work done."
? Missing line here?
[14:37] * Rei-chan chuckles. "I'd almost forgotten about that... at least that'll make things more convenient for those of us who can't teleport alone."
[14:38] * Usagi-chan frowns a bit, looking back over at the Twins. "Is the link still there?"
[14:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> "No," Cyprine says, blinking. "It was overloaded in the last use of the Grail." Ptilol nods too. "Yeah, it was a rather big blow up - we were able to help with the blast, then it just fell apart."
[14:42] * Usagi-chan smiles wryly. "Well then, I guess I get to welcome you guys to the group - I just heard you in my head a minute ago, Ptilol."
[14:43] * Rei-chan blinks, looking at the twins. "You've got a permanent link, now?"
[14:43] <Sailor_Anastasia> Both twins blink, Ptilol trying something. 'I imagine Usagi saying she is a giant marshmellow after she eats.'
[14:44] * Usagi-chan sticks her tongue out at the red-haired twin. 'I heard that, Ptilol,' she retorts.
[14:45] <Rei-chan> "Wow... I guess it isn't just for Sailor Senshi anymore, now?" Rei guesses at the silent byplay.
[14:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Apparently not," Cyprine shakes her head. "With the energy backlash from the Grail on the link and with the knowledge of how Usagi's other bonds were formed, it's no surprise."
[14:46] <Usagi-chan> "Sure looks that way," Usagi agrees, her brow creasing after a moment. "I wonder..." She looks down at Chibi Usa, experimentally trying to send her thoughts to the girl. 'Can you hear me too, Chibi Usa-chan?'
[14:46] * Rei-chan nods. "The original link between the senshi formed when we all joined power to fight Metallia. I guess it's no suprise something similar would happen with what you three were doing, there."
[14:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> Chibi Usa just sits in your lap, watching you talk to the other girls. "Indeed," Ptilol nods. "At least all of us are familiar with this sort of linking..."
[14:50] * Usagi-chan nods, guessing there's no link with her daughter. "True - I don't think it'll be any more trouble than the telepathy I've had up to now."
[14:53] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nodding, 'It shouldn't be," Cyprine sends. 'Usagi, is it possible to contact the other girls through this?'
[14:54] <Usagi-chan> '*I* can do it, but you can't contact any of the others directly, at least not as far as I know,' Usagi replies. 'I can talk to you two, Ami, Rei, and Makoto, but all of you can only talk to me - at least that's how this has worked so far.'
[14:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> 'I'm just poking it, but it should be possible... if you practiced being a central mental hub a bit, Usagi,' the Twins inform you. 'the groundwork is there.'
[14:56] <Usagi-chan> 'What would I need to do?' Usagi sends back, giving the Twins a curious look.
[14:57] <Sailor_Anastasia> 'It's... well, we'll discuss it later," Cyprine finally comments back. 'There isn't any hurry... and,' she smiles, 'Chibi Usa should come first.'
[14:58] * Usagi-chan nods to that, placing her hand on the little girl's head. "She does," she replies, giving her a smile.
[14:09] <Anastasia> Smiling back at her mother, "Then... can we go have a soda and then go, Mommy," she asks, hoping. "Or even some ice cream?"
[14:09] <Usagi-chan> "I think ice cream sounds PERFECT right now," the blonde replies with a grin.
[14:13] <Anastasia> Nodding, Chibi Usa goes on. "Let's go, then, Mommy," she asserts.
[14:14] * Usagi-chan smiles, rising as she takes Chibi Usa's hand. "Who's coming with us?" she asks.
[14:14] * Rei-chan stands up, obviously.
[14:15] <Anastasia> "Go on," Ptilol shakes her head. "I need to go back to the Other Place," Cyprine picks up at this point, "And I need to sleep."
[14:16] <Rei-chan> "See you guys tomorrow?" Rei offers. "We still need to plan our vacation," she adds with a grin.
[14:16] <Anastasia> "Sure thing," Cyprine nods, as the pair vanish.
[14:17] <Rei-chan> "What about the rest of you?" Rei looks at Hotaru, then over at Tellu, Makoto, and Ann.
[14:18] <Anastasia> Tellu shakes her head, as does Ann. "We," she means herself and Makoto, "should get going. Alan's kind of waiting on us, I think."
[14:22] <Anastasia> Hotaru considers, then nods and smiles.
[14:23] <Rei-chan> "Okay, then. Just us four," Rei nods. "See you guys later," she waves to Ann and the rest as she starts for the door.
[14:23] * Usagi-chan smiles. "Thanks for your help today, everyone!" Usagi says with a smile, waving as she too heads out of the room.
[14:25] <Anastasia> ---
[14:31] <Anastasia> A few days pass - Chibi Usa insists on sleeping with you the past few nights, after sleeping with both you and Rei the night after that terrible battle. Life goes on to Sunday, when...
[14:33] <Anastasia> Over a late breakfast - you slept in, Chibi Usa's warmth making that an easy task - Ikkuko pokes her head into the kitchen. "Usagi, you have a guest."
[14:34] <Usagi-chan> "Who is it?" Usagi asks, looking up at her mother over a forkful of sausage.
[14:35] <Anastasia> "Setsuna," she smiles a bit. "She asked to see you."
[14:37] * Usagi-chan blinks, slightly surprised. "I'll be out in just a minute," the blonde replies, quickly demolishing the rest of her breakfast - she was almost done, anyway.
[14:39] <Anastasia> It takes Usagi just about that to head into the living room and find Sailor Pluto there - the actual Sailor Pluto, she's wearing her work clothes today. "Your Majesty," she murmurs with a small nod.
[14:41] <Usagi-chan> "I wasn't expecting to see you today," Usagi admits quite honestly, returning the nod. "Is something wrong?"
[14:42] <Anastasia> "Not in the sense you are worried about, Your Majesty," she nods again. "I merely wished to come and discuss certain matters."
[14:43] <Usagi-chan> "Oh," Usagi says, not quite sure what to make of that answer. "Please, sit down," she says, gesturing the couch as she sits down in her father's armchair. "If we're going to talk, we might as well get comfortable."
[14:45] <Anastasia> Doing so, she turns to you. "You defeated Zirae, if at a price," she notes, opening the proverbial floor.
[14:46] * Usagi-chan nods. "I guess you mean the Grail," she says. "I'd rather have lost that than Chibi Usa, though."
[14:47] <Anastasia> "Among other things," she smiles slightly. "But you saved Chibi Usa and protected the Earth again. Well done, your Majesty."
[14:48] * Usagi-chan blushes very slightly at the compliment. "Thank you."
[14:50] <Anastasia> "And you've rebuilt some of your lost protectors, even if you lost another recently," she goes on, her reference clear.
[14:52] * Usagi-chan sighs. "I was hoping to talk to you about that, actually. What exactly is happening to Viluy?"
[14:54] <Anastasia> "The memories of Michiru are left behind in the domain of Neptune," she says, not really dancing around as she usually might. "As she inherited the power, she also inherited the memories."
[14:56] * Usagi-chan sighs. "Is the same thing going to happen if I appoint someone to take Minako's place?" she asks, getting to the question that's been weighing on her mind for a bit. "I'm not sure I'd want someone turning half into Minako, with the way things went with her towards the end."
[14:59] <Anastasia> "The memories of Minako," she says carefully, pondering. "I told you that you make your own destiny, Usagi. Every single person does... yet some people tread on paths that should not be tread on with this freedom." Pausing even more to consider her words, "There will be the memories of the real Minako, whomever she truly was."
[15:02] <Usagi-chan> "But who exactly is the 'real' Minako? The person she was in the Silver Millenium? The person we knew in this time?" Usagi sighs.
[15:02] <Anastasia> "That's something you," she points right at your heart, "will have to decide."
[15:03] <Usagi-chan> "Are you saying it's up to me to say who she really was?" Usagi says, rather surprised.
[15:04] <Anastasia> "It is your judgment, your Majesty," she demurs, smiling that damn smile of hers.
[15:05] * Usagi-chan sighs. "If you say so," she says, frowning a bit. 'I guess I WILL have to get used to the idea,' she thinks to herself.
[15:06] <Anastasia> Nodding, "Further, you still plan to restore the Moon." she asserts, not a question at all.
[15:06] * Usagi-chan nods. "Yeah, but that's nothing new," Usagi says. "We've been working on it for a long time now - why would we stop now?"
[15:08] <Anastasia> Setsuna just shakes her head. "As you say, your Majesty." At that, she rises. "Endymion is well, if you care to know."
[15:10] * Usagi-chan frowns a bit - why the abrupt subject changes? "That's good to hear - how are things going for you two?"
[15:11] <Anastasia> "We are... well," she smiles. "I believe that in time that Endymion will let go of his past."
[15:12] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit. "I just hope you two will be happy together," she says honestly.
[15:14] <Anastasia> "In time," she replies, smiling back. "We all... perhaps, if nothing else, we have time."
[15:16] * Usagi-chan smiles wryly at that. "I guess THAT's true enough," she admits.
[15:18] <Anastasia> Nodding, "Don't tell Chibi Usa I came," she says, beginning to walk out. "I agree with her... it will be best for her if she forgets her past, now. The Puu she sees in me is just a ghost of that."
[15:20] * Usagi-chan nods slowly. "All right," she says. "Take care of yourself, Setsuna - and good luck."She gives the tall senshi a smile.
[15:21] <Anastasia> As she turns her back and walks out fully, "Keep Chibi Usa safe and happy, Usagi," she concludes. "Don't make me regret not trying to win her heart for our own family instead."
[15:22] <Usagi-chan> "I will," Usagi says, frowning a bit at the implication.
[15:23] <Anastasia> At that, Sailor Pluto is gone... yet, as she leaves, you notice something where she was sitting, a glittering object.
[15:23] * Usagi-chan raises an eyebrow, getting up to go investigate the shining object.
[15:25] <Anastasia> It's the bare metal cap to what looks to be a henshin pen. Gray and colorless, it lacks a certain vitality that marks the other pens to you. With it is a small piece of folded up paper.
[15:27] * Usagi-chan frowns a bit, picking up the cap as she looks over the paper.
[15:29] <Anastasia> Folded up in the paper is the rest of the pen alogn with precise black writing. "The universe is vast, your Majesty. Perhaps there are other dreamers?" is the simple text written there.
[15:30] * Usagi-chan maintains her slight frown, studying the pen included with the paper.
[15:30] <Anastasia> It's completely non magical to your senses - just a gray henshin pen, minus a symbol atop it.
[15:31] <Usagi-chan> "Weird... a blank transformation pen?" she says, studying the two objects.
[15:34] <Anastasia> They are completely normal to you. The not ehas no further clues, either.
[15:34] * Usagi-chan shrugs as the pen reveals no secrets, placing the cap on it to keep the two items from getting separated before slipping it into her subspace pocket.

[15:37] <Anastasia> ---
[15:41] <Anastasia> A few more days pass. Heading home after one particularly nasty and long day at school(You barely passed a far harder than expected math test, you think), seeing Chibi Usa crying is one thing. Seeing Eiko standing in front of her and smirking is another, uncaring about the people watching in horror. "You're just the little lonely baby of a dyke and a whore," she smirks. "Tell me... Mommy probably passed it onto you, didn't she?"
[15:42] * Usagi-chan grits her teeth. "Get AWAY from her, Eiko," she snarls. "And leave her alone - go back to playing with the trash you usually hang out with."
[15:44] <Anastasia> On seeing you, Eiko's eyes narrow a moment, hand in her pocket clenching. "Usagi," she sneers. "Come back to pick up your baby, slut," she mocks. "Hey, everyone! Don't you just love a little slutty single mother who looks after her bastard children?" she calls, as the entire crowd just watches in horror.
[15:45] <Anastasia> "MOMMY!" Chibi Usa cries, darting right to you with almost super speed.
[15:45] * Usagi-chan ignores the cruel jibes, kneeling down to give Chibi Usa a hug. "It's okay, Chibi Usa - I'm here now. I won't let Eiko bother you anymore."
[15:47] <Anastasia> "Mommy!" she sobs into your chest brokenly. Meanwhile, Eiko just laughs, turning away. "Oh, I wouldn't count on it, bitch," she snorts. "I'll be around, Chibi Usa. Someone needs to put you in place since your mother didn't have the guts for an abortion."
[15:48] * Usagi-chan narrows her eyes at that - NO ONE talks to her daughter like that. But there's a time and a place - and this is neither. "Just ignore her, Chibi Usa," Usagi says gently, caressing the little girl's back.
[15:49] <Anastasia> Walking away with hand still in pocket, Eiko showers down cruel laughter as she leaves, the absolutely stunned crowd not trying to stop her.
[15:50] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa doesn't even manage words, just wave after wave of hurt tears...
[15:50] * Usagi-chan resolves to pay Eiko a little visit once Chibi Usa is settled down and taken care of, her daughter far more important than her brat of a cousin.
[15:51] <Anastasia> As Chibi Usa cries on your shirt, the spell over the crowd seems to break, so to speak, people finally acting. One warm hand ends on Usagi's shoulder, "Miss, why don't you take her in here," he offers, an elderly man with a nice smile.
[15:52] * Usagi-chan smiles at the older gentleman. "Thank you very much, sir," she says, picking Chibi Usa up and following him.
[15:53] <Anastasia> Leading you into a small little cafe that you've been to before - you think you met Endymion here, or your Dad after that one day at Mugen, it's not important enough to pursue right now - he takes you right to a corner booth. "I'll get you some tea," he offers, as Chibi Usa still cries. "I'm so sorry for you... I should have stepped in far before that."
[15:55] <Usagi-chan> "It's all right, it's just the usual with Eiko," Usagi sighs, settling Chibi Usa on her lap and rocking the girl back and forth gently. "I appreciate the help now, though."
[15:56] <Anastasia> Coming back with hot tea and a smile - he mentions his son and daughter in law run the place - he apologizes again and gives you your privacy. By this point, Chibi Usa has finally calmed a bit, rubbing her nose on her sleeve and whimpering.
[15:57] <Usagi-chan> "Are you feeling better now, Chibi Usa-chan?" Usagi says gently, giving her daughter a smile. "Don't take Eiko seriously - she doesn't know what she's talking about, and she's just trying to hurt you because she can."
[15:58] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa nods bravely, now thinking to reach for a napkin. "She scares me, Mommy. She's so mean..."
[16:00] * Usagi-chan retrieves a napkin for the girl, letting her blow her nose. "Don't let her frighten you, Chibi Usa-chan. I won't ever let her hurt you, no matter what." She leans down and kisses the top of the girl's head.
[16:01] <Anastasia> "Okay," she murmurs, resting her head in the valley of your chest. "Mommy will protect me again..."
[16:06] * Usagi-chan strokes Chibi Usa's hair, smiling as she reassures the girl. "Mommy will always protect you, Chibi Usa-chan."
[16:08] <Anastasia> Nuzzing in and closing her eyes, Chibi Usa seems to be in no shape to argue the point. In fact, you can hear her breathing starting to slow after a bit of that.
[16:09] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit, keeping up the soothing caresses - not a real surprise that the girl cried herself out.
[16:09] <Anastasia> Soon enough, you are home. That nice old man gave you a ride home, making it a nice and short trip. On carrying the girl in and to the couch, "Why's Chibi Usa asleep?" Shingo asks absently, as he plays some game or the other. Looks fantasyish, and it's not one of yours.
[16:11] * Usagi-chan sighs, covering her daughter with a blanket. "Eiko," Usagi replies shortly. "I don't know how or why, but she cornered Chibi Usa and started in on her. She left, but Chibi Usa cried herself to sleep after that. It was a horrible scene."
[16:12] <Anastasia> "Ugh," Shingo mutters, recalling his own incidents with the girl. "I'd hoped she'd gone back home already or something."
[16:13] <Usagi-chan> "No such luck," Usagi says with a scowl. "I'm definitely paying her a visit after dinner tonight - I am NOT going to stand around and let her do that to Chibi Usa. Insulting me is one thing, but Chibi Usa's been through so much already - she doesn't need to deal with Eiko on top of everything else."
[16:15] <Anastasia> Shingo nods, speaking with a slight grudge of his own. "Give her a kick in the butt for me, too, Usagi."
[16:16] <Usagi-chan> "With pleasure," Usagi replies.
[16:18] <Anastasia> After a rather nice meal that Chibi Usa sleeps through, Usagi has her task in hand. Armed with the address of Eiko, which Mom gave up without a fuss after hearing about the day's events, you can go visit her when you are ready.
[16:21] * Usagi-chan heads out right after dinner, a grimly determined expression on her face. Her daughter's lost one family and nearly lost her life, and she is NOT going to let some sheer bitch get away with tormenting the girl. She makes a beeline for Eiko's apartment, practically steaming with anger.
[16:22] <Anastasia> Her apartment is in Tokyo's outskirts, a decent if not great building. It's on the third floor, a quiet door in what looks to be a quiet apartment building.
[16:22] * Usagi-chan hammers on the door. "Eiko!" she calls out angrily.
[16:23] <Anastasia> A few seconds pass, the knocking echoing. Nada.
[16:23] * Usagi-chan narrows her eyes, checking with her aura sight to see if the bitch is even home right now.
[16:25] <Anastasia> She's not, you find.
[16:25] * Usagi-chan takes a deep breath, calming herself as she attempts to search Juuban for her cousin.
[16:26] <Anastasia> OOC - Soul check +2, rabbit.
[16:27] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6+2
[16:27] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6+2 and gets 9."
[16:28] <Anastasia> You... hm. Eiko's not around, somewhere in downtown Tokyo.
[16:30] * Usagi-chan wastes little time in taking to the rooftops, headed for downtown. As she goes, she sends a mental message to Rei. 'You there, Rei-chan?'
[16:31] <Rei-chan> 'Hm? Usagi?' Rei's mental voice replies momentarily.
[16:32] <Usagi-chan> 'I'm out dealing with Eiko right now,' Usagi sends back grimly. 'She had Chibi Usa in tears this afternoon, and I'm not going to sit still for that. But since I'm having to go downtown to find her, I figured I'd better let someone know where I was.'
[16:33] <Rei-chan> 'Eiko. Ugh... I had almost forgotten all about her.' Rei sighs. 'Just don't kill her, Usagi.'
[16:35] <Usagi-chan> 'It's a tempting thought, but I won't,' Usagi sends back. 'But I'm going to make damn sure she knows better than to mess around with my family again.'
[16:36] <Rei-chan> 'Quite right. Let me know how it goes,' Rei responds.
[16:36] <Usagi-chan> 'Will do,' Usagi replies, turning her full attention back to her search.
[16:42] <Anastasia> It leads you to a seedy love hotel in Tokyo - a slum version of what Gramps Hino suggested that one morning after Rei and yourself broached that barrier.
[16:43] * Usagi-chan grimaces in distaste, trying to place where in the building Eiko is, exactly.
[16:44] <Anastasia> She's in the front - it looks like she's coming out.
[16:45] * Usagi-chan drops down from the rooftop lightly, waiting in plain sight of the entrance - a deep scowl on her face.
[16:49] <Anastasia> Eiko soon enough comes out, right hand stuffed in her pocket while her left hand runs over her hair... and she stops when she sees you, sneering. "Hello, Usagi," she smiles. "Come here to get knocked up again? Going to add another disease-ridden bastard child for Chibi Usa to fuck?"
[16:50] <Anastasia> Staring at you, her eyes almost seem to burn with disdain, black and cold...
[16:51] * Usagi-chan wastes no time, attempting to grab Eiko by the shirt and slam her up against the nearest wall.
[16:51] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[16:51] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[16:52] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[16:52] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[16:53] <Anastasia> Grabbing her black shirt and doing said slam, she gasps a bit but stays more or less coherent. "Bitch," she snarls, spitting right in your face at close range and trying to push off. (Body check for her, +1)
[16:53] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[16:53] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[16:54] <Anastasia> She's stronger than she looks, but she can't manage to really get you to budge.
[16:56] * Usagi-chan bars her arm against the other girl's throat, giving Eiko an icy glare as she speaks. "I've sat by and watched you annoy the hell out of my family and friends. But I will NOT let you do another thing to hurt Chibi Usa. If I find out you've said ONE THING to her to hurt her feelings, you WILL be in a world of pain. That's a promise."
[16:57] <Anastasia> Unfazed by your threats, "Know your place," she hisses, annoyed. "I'll do to that little bastard bitch what I FEEL like..." she chuckles darkly. "She'd look even better with her ugly head under my boot and the curb."
[16:59] * Usagi-chan pulls her arm back and slams a punch into Eiko's face, still holding the girl pinned against the wall. "You won't do a damn thing to her, is that clear?"
[17:01] <Anastasia> There is a spritting out of blood as her lip is split by Usagi's blow, Eiko's head slamming back! Gritting her teeth she sends you a look that managed to send a shiver down your spine even now, "Fuck you," she manages despite her bleeding. "I told you... that little bitch is MINE to do what I want to."
[17:03] * Usagi-chan wastes no time in repeating the punch, a look of grim determination on her face. "Is that clear?!" she shouts. "You lay one finger on her and you WILL regret it!"
[17:05] <Anastasia> This time, you feel something surprising from Eiko. From her hand you can feel a surge of dark energy! "I said..." she says through a hurt nose, "fuck you... Serenity," she hisses, a close range burst of dark energy knocking you flying! (20 damage) Laughing despite a badly punched out face, EIko rocks a bit back and forth. "I'll kill that little brat, and then put all of you in your place..."
[17:06] <Anastasia> As she does so, she takes her right hand out, holding it in her left and laughing more.
[17:06] * Usagi-chan bounces back from the attack, staring at Eiko. "What the hell?" She jumps to her feet quickly, glaring at the other girl.
[17:07] <Anastasia> A black glow surrounds her hand and then her body... "I'll get both of you... you damn sluts..."
[17:08] <Usagi-chan> "You won't do anything to either one of us!" Usagi shouts, firing off a bolt of energy at her possessed cousin.
[17:08] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[17:08] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[17:09] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:09] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 3."
[17:09] <Anastasia> Holding out her hand open, you see a circular fragment of dark crystal embedded in her palm. The blast of silver energy goes to it and vanishes, Eiko laughing. "Is that it, bitch? You're nothing to me! Nothing but a pest that keeps getting in my way!"
[17:11] <Usagi-chan> roll 1d6+9
[17:11] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 1d6+9 and gets 10."
[17:11] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[17:11] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 1."
[17:11] <Usagi-chan> "I haven't even gotten started," Usagi says grimly. Withdrawing her brooch from subspace, she holds it aloft. "Moon Purity Power, Make UP!"
[17:12] <Anastasia> That seems to cause an effect on Eiko, her beaten face going into a more angry mode. "Sailor Moon! I'll kill you, bitch! Nothing but a pest!" At that, a second bolt of black energy comes from Eiko!
[17:12] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:12] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 4."
[17:12] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[17:12] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[17:15] <Anastasia> Coming too quickly after her transformation, the second bolt hits Usagi right in the chest, sending her off her feet and up a bit before she slams down to the ground! (20 damage)
[17:15] * Sailor_Moon grunts in pain, slowly struggling to her feet a moment later.
[17:16] <Anastasia> "Come on, Usagi," she mocks. "I'm going to kick Chibi Usa's skull in tomorrow, don't you want to see that slut bleed to death? She'll die regretting that she never got a chance to go down on you!"
[17:16] <Anastasia> roll 1d6
[17:16] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 1d6 and gets 3."
[17:17] <Sailor_Moon> roll 1d6+12
[17:17] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 1d6+12 and gets 17."
[17:18] * Sailor_Moon whips her staff out of subspace with a silent snarl. "You've been asking for this for a long, LONG time. Moon Princess Hallation!" she cries, letting a powerful blast of magical energy rip towards Eiko!
[17:19] <Sailor_Moon> roll 2d6
[17:19] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Moon rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[17:19] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:19] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[17:21] <Anastasia> Slamming into Eiko at full force after she tries to bat it away, Eiko is sent flying with a pained cry, into the wall hard! She's not moving to get up, either, her aura flicking with darkness...
[17:25] * Sailor_Moon stalks over to Eiko angrily, grabbing the girl's right hand roughly.
[17:25] <Anastasia> The black crystal shard throbs in her hand, hateful energy radiating from it. You can see that Eiko is really rather badly injured from that Hallation, too..
[17:27] * Sailor_Moon shakes her head, letting Eiko's hand fall to the ground as she steps back and raises her staff again. "Moon Healing Escalation!" she calls out, sending a wave of purifying energy towards the fallen girl.
[17:28] <Anastasia> Eiko's right hand goes straight up into the air at it, the shard shimmering and cracking! With a strange, otherworldy cry, it shatters into a thousand sandy shards that vanish away in an instant! Eiko goes limp after that, bleeding and torn up...
[17:28] * Sailor_Moon maintains the wash of energy, finally letting its healing component take its effect on her cousin.
[17:30] <Anastasia> Her battered body slowly mends, the wounds healing. Though, Eiko stays most unconscious...
[17:31] * Sailor_Moon sighs. Removing her tiara, she holds it against the other girl's stomach, letting it form into a band to constrict her arms against her sides.
[17:31] <Anastasia> It does so, obeying your command as it always does.
[17:32] <Sailor_Moon> That done, Usagi hauls the other girl up and over her shoulder with a grimace before taking to the rooftops once again. 'THAT wasn't what I expected,' she sends to Rei as she heads back towards Juuban.
[17:33] <Rei-chan> 'Huh?' the miko sends back a moment later, puzzled.
[17:33] <Sailor_Moon> 'Guess who found a little shard of Black Crystal...' Usagi sends wryly.
[17:33] <Rei-chan> Silence for a moment, then, 'You're kidding me. Please tell me you're kidding me.'
[17:34] <Sailor_Moon> 'I'm not kidding you,' Usagi replies. 'I can't imagine what else it could have been. She hit me with a couple of energy blasts from it.'
[17:35] <Rei-chan> 'Well, you're obviously okay, now. What happened?'
[17:36] * Sailor_Moon frowns in the middle of her roofhopping. 'She was talking about kicking Chibi Usa's head in, and I kind of lost it. Hit her with a Hallation. She survived it, thank god, but only barely.'
[17:42] <Rei-chan> 'Thank God...' Rei sigh. 'She might have been a bitch, but... that doesn't deserve death. Did you dispose of the shard?'
[17:44] <Sailor_Moon> 'Yeah, I managed to purify her and the shard shattered completely - let out something like a scream, too. I'm guessing that was Wiseman. She's not in any danger now, but she's still unconscious. I've got her with me now and I'm headed back home.'
[17:45] <Rei-chan> 'Good. Hopefully she won't be too much of a problem, now.'
[17:46] * Sailor_Moon sighs. 'I sure hope not, but there's no telling. She was a bitch BEFORE she found the crystal.'
[17:47] <Rei-chan> 'True enough, but I can't imagine that shard was doing her mental state any favours. You do remember Petz, right?' Rei points out.
[17:48] <Sailor_Moon> 'Yeah, I do. I guess we'll have to see what she's like when she wakes up - and she'll HAVE to be dealt with. She saw me transform, and she knew I was Serenity, too - probably from Wiseman.'
[17:49] * Rei-chan blows out a long breath. 'Great. Well, if we're lucky she won't remember - that's happened often enough with people who've been possessed. If not... we'll think of something.'
[17:51] <Sailor_Moon> 'We'll have to,' Usagi replies glumly, giving the unconscious girl over her shoulder a glare. 'I swear, she's been nothing but trouble since the day she arrived.'
[17:52] <Rei-chan> 'How many more months until her own stupid parents are supposed to take her back?'
[17:54] <Sailor_Moon> 'She only got here about a month or so ago - so at least a few.' Usagi doesn't sound particularly pleased at that fact.
[17:57] <Rei-chan> 'Oh well... guess things can't ever be perfect.'
[17:59] <Sailor_Moon> 'We should be so lucky,' Usagi thinks back wryly, just entering Juuban.
[17:59] <Anastasia> Eiko is still out quite cold in your arms, lying there like a ton of bricks.
[18:01] * Sailor_Moon takes the last few hops towards home quickly, checking the street to make sure no one is around to see her before she drops down from the rooftops.
[18:02] <Anastasia> Hopping home with dusk settling in, you manage to find a place to get down, though you're still conspicuous as Sailor Moon.
[18:05] * Sailor_Moon gets into the house quickly, not willing to drop her transformation just yet - if she reverts to Usagi, her tiara disappears, and she wants to make sure Eiko is secured considering the events of the past hour.
[18:05] <Anastasia> Going in the back way, you find Ikkuko putting away dinner as you enter - some sort of pork in sauce. "Usagi!" she says in surprise, then her eyes narrow at Eiko. "You brought a guest," she notes.
[18:06] <Sailor_Moon> "Unfortunately," Usagi says with a scowl. "She was a little more trouble than I was expecting. Do you care where I drop her?"
[18:19] <Anastasia> "Chibi Usa went to her room, so use the couch," Ikkuko sighs, glaring at Eiko. "No need to make a mess on the floor."
[18:20] <Sailor_Moon> "Do we have anything we can use to tie her up?" Usagi says, bearing her burden into the living room.
[18:22] <Anastasia> "Not anything I can think of, Usagi-chan," she says after a touch of thought. "Maybe... maybe an old jump rope, if Shingo still has his?"
[18:23] * Sailor_Moon drops Eiko on the couch unceremoniously, then begins to look around for her little brother.
[18:27] <Anastasia> Shingo is still downstairs, having pauses his game - that SM game on the console, you note. "Did you have to bring her home, Dumpling Head," he grouses, staring in distaste.
[18:28] <Sailor_Moon> "Yes," Usagi replies with a scowl of her own. "Do you still have your old jump rope? I need something to tie her up with before she wakes up."
[18:29] <Anastasia> "Yeah, I think so," he smirks a bit as he stares at her. "Hold on, Usagi."
[18:29] <Sailor_Moon> "Thanks," Usagi replies, keeping an eye on the unconscious girl while Shingo runs off.
[18:30] <Anastasia> Coming back a short while later with a length of old cotton and plastic wrapped cord, he hands it to you without comment.
[18:31] * Sailor_Moon wastes little time in binding Eiko's arms and legs securely, finally letting her transformation lapse as she finishes her task.
[18:35] <Anastasia> AS it does so, Eiko continues to lie there. She's rather thoroughly out as her aura slowly readjusts to its normal human levels...
[18:36] * Usagi-chan simply settles down in her father's chair to wait, still watching the unconscious Eiko.
[18:38] <Anastasia> Three hours pass, later evening coming and starting to go. Eiko is still asleep, though her aura has stabilized.
[18:39] * Usagi-chan simply settles down in the chair to sleep, figuring if Eiko wakes up in the middle of the night she won't be shy about making her displeasure known.
[18:40] <Anastasia> Falling asleep quickly...
[18:40] <Anastasia> ---
[18:40] <Anastasia> That morning...
[18:40] <Anastasia> Waking just a hair past seven, Usagi is stirred by Shingo shaking her shoulder. "Hey, Meatball Brain," he says, "It's morning."
[18:41] * Usagi-chan blinks blearily. "Hmm?" she says groggily, stretching in the chair. "Thanks, Shingo," she mumbles as she tries to wake up.
[18:42] <Anastasia> "She's still there, though," he nods, glaring again at the still slumbering Eiko. "Can you get her out of here, Usagi-chan?"
[18:45] * Usagi-chan grumbles. "Where do you want me to put her? I've got to find out what she remembers when she wakes up, I can't just dump her somewhere."
[18:45] <Anastasia> "How about the city trash incinerator," Ikkuko observes sourly, poking her head in from the kitchenway. "Breakfast is ready. Will you be going to school today, Usagi-chan?"
[18:47] <Usagi-chan> "Probably not unless she wakes up in the next few minutes," Usagi says, climbing out of the chair. "She saw me transform last night, so I can't exactly let her go running around blabbing it to everyone she runs into." She heads towards the kitchen - breakfast sounds good right now.
[18:47] <Anastasia> Nodding, "Moooom! How come Usagi always gets to stay home," Shingo complains rather loudly, causing the poor woman to sigh.
[18:49] <Anastasia> "Fine, you stay home too, Shingo," she almost snaps off, shaking her head in not caring defeat. "Usagi, go ahead and serve yourselves, I'm going to lay down."
[18:49] <Usagi-chan> "Sorry, Mom," Usagi says apologetically. "I'll get her out of here as soon as I can."
[18:50] <Anastasia> "Please, Usagi-chan," she says, heading for the stairs as you and your brother head to the breakfast tables. Eggs is the order of the day, Shingo taking a large serving. "About time I got a free day off, even if Eiko is here," he nods. "You're so lucky, Usagi."
[18:51] * Usagi-chan sighs. "I wouldn't call it luck," she grumbles. "YOU get to have a day off to goof around. I'VE got to make sure Miss Congeniality over there doesn't remember anything from last night."
[18:52] <Anastasia> "But you get to keep missing days, and Luna says that you can get out of classes at school," the boy notes. "I wish I could just leave class."
[18:54] <Usagi-chan> "Doesn't mean I get out of the work though," Usagi says. "I still have to make everything up later - which is TWICE as much work."
[18:58] <Anastasia> "And you can have Ami-chan help you... she's the smartest girl in Tokyo," Shingo goes on. "At least Mika isn't bad at studying," he notes after that, thinking.
[19:00] <Usagi-chan> "Doesn't mean she does my homework FOR me," Usagi retorts. "It IS nice to have the help, but it's still just help. And we're all really busy even aside from school - having to take time out to make up a day is a real pain."
[19:01] <Anastasia> Grumbling, Shingo lets it drop as he stuffs his face with eggs. "Hey, once you get Eiko out of here... why don't we play some video games?" he offers, trying to be nonchalant. "Chibi Usa isn't any good at them at all."
[19:03] <Usagi-chan> "I guess we can if you want. I figured since I'm taking the day off anyway I'd head up to the palace and see what I can do to get things going back up there again, but it can wait." Usagi shrugs. "I just hope deailing with Eiko isn't too much of a pain."
[19:05] <Anastasia> "Okay," he nods, actually smiling a bit. "See ya after you get rid of Eiko, Usagi!"
[19:07] <Usagi-chan> "Have fun," Usagi says with a wry smile. "At least more fun than I will." She makes a face.
[19:07] <Anastasia> He probably does - Eiko doesn't stir for another half hour, finally coming to with a groan.
[19:09] * Usagi-chan keeps her face carefully blank as Eiko stirs, her arms crossed as she looks on at her cousin.
[19:12] <Anastasia> "oooh... fuck..." Eiko mutters, groaning. "... fuck did take?" she says a few moments later, opening her eyes a bit before closing them double time and moaning.
[19:12] * Usagi-chan blinks - the other girl's not making much sense. "Glad to see you're finally awake," she says levelly.
[19:13] <Anastasia> Wincing, Eiko slowly opens her eyes just enough to see. "Ugh... you..." she mutters. "Hell am I doing here again?"
[19:14] <Usagi-chan> "I brought you back here. We're going to settle a few things, here and now." Usagi replies.
[19:14] <Anastasia> "When did you bring me back here," she says, shaking her head very, very slowly. "Fuck, what day is it?" she asks a moment later, mostly in reflex.
[19:17] <Usagi-chan> "Last night," Usagi replies. "It's Wednesday morning."
[19:17] <Anastasia> "It was Thursday last," she half notes, "Ugh..."
[19:18] * Usagi-chan blinks. "What's the last thing you remember?" Usagi says, getting up to untie the other girl.
[19:19] <Anastasia> Usually docile, probably because of all the aftershock in her system, "Just broke in the apartment," she murmurs.
[19:21] * Usagi-chan pulls the rope away from Eiko's limbs, allowing the other girl a bit more freedom of movement. "Broke in? Do I want to know what you mean by that?"
[19:22] <Anastasia> "The fuck was I tied up for," she snarls a bit as you take the rope off, missing the latter question.
[19:23] * Usagi-chan gives Eiko a flat look. "Because before I hauled you back here last night, you were threatening to kill me and Chibi Usa. I wanted to make sure you didn't try anything when you woke up."
[19:24] <Anastasia> "You're lying, bitch," she says, falling back into old patterns. "I'd remember if I did that."
[19:25] <Usagi-chan> "The last thing you remember is it being Thursday," Usagi retorts. "I'd say there are a few things you DON'T remember."
[19:25] <Anastasia> Eiko sends you a glare, beginning to get up. "Fuck this shitheap," she mutters, standing.
[19:26] * Usagi-chan shoves Eiko back down to the couch roughly. "I didn't say you could leave. I'm serious - I have completely HAD it with you! What the hell is your problem?"
[19:27] <Anastasia> Falling hard back into the couch, the groans and holds her head for a moment before getting up again, glaring. "Do that again and I'll put you in your place, bitch. Go back to humping your girlfriend's leg, slut."
[19:30] * Usagi-chan puts her hands on her hips, scowling at her cousin. "You try to leave again and I'll do it again. Your call, not mine. And I'm still waiting on an answer - just WHAT is your problem?"
[19:30] <Anastasia> Grunting, she makes a rather strong push on you, making you take a step or two back. "Fuck off," she replies again, as she rubs her forehead and starts to walk off towards the door.
[19:33] * Usagi-chan grabs Eiko's wrist and jerks her back, none too gently. "I said sit DOWN, dammit!" She practically slings her cousin back down to the couch, visibly furious. "I will NOT put up with this any more!"
[19:33] <Anastasia> Getting up with a leap and a roar of fury, the seemingly downed girl explodes outward at Usagi! (Body check +1, rabbit.)
[19:34] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6+1 burning 30 EP
[19:34] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6+1 burning 30 EP and gets 9."
[19:35] <Anastasia> Getting you in a surprisngly strong body tackle, Usagi is knocked the the floor and winded slightly, a flurry of enraged blows doing some damage! (10 damage total. If you try to escape the old fashioned way, body check +2.)
[19:36] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6 burning 20 EP
[19:36] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 burning 20 EP and gets 9."
[19:36] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[19:36] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[19:37] <Anastasia> While the struggling goes on, she doesn't manage and more effective shots.
[19:38] * Usagi-chan snarls, bringing her knee up and driving it into Eiko's midsection!
[19:38] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[19:38] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 10."
[19:38] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[19:38] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[19:38] <Anastasia> The knees doesn't really work, being blockes as the two of you scuffle, yet Usagi still isn't hurt again!
[19:39] <Anastasia> "Usagi!" Ikkuko cries, coming downstairs rather quickly.
[19:39] <Usagi-chan> "Get OFF me!" Usagi thrusts her hands out, sending a small charge of energy into the other girl's body to knock her away!
[19:39] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[19:39] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[19:41] <Anastasia> Sending her off and onto the floor again, Eiko is winded and coughing as Ikkuko rushes over to you. "ARe you okay, Usagi-chan," she asks quickly, kneeling down.
[19:42] <Usagi-chan> "I'm fine," Usagi says with a scowl, climbing to her feet and going to stand over Eiko - this time, prepared for any trouble. "Are you ready to say anything yet?" she says through gritted teeth.
[19:43] <Anastasia> "Usagi," Ikkuko glides in between the two of you. "That's enough of this in my house. Eiko," she says between gritted teeth, "Get out."
[19:45] * Usagi-chan moves past her mother. "Last chance, Eiko. If you're willing to talk I'll hear you out, but if you're not... get out." she says flatly, echoing her mother.
[19:46] <Anastasia> Slowly gettin gup, she just glares and begins to walk out on slightly unsteady but fast feet, just happy to get out at this point.
[19:49] <Anastasia> As she leaves, Ikkuko sighs deeply. "Usagi... stay away from her." she says tiredly. "I'm tired of all this drama."
[19:50] <Usagi-chan> "I'm not planning on finding her again unless she tries something with Chibi Usa again," she says with a sigh. "At least I know why she did it yesterday, and that much is over. I just hope Aunt Chisato takes her back soon."
[19:51] <Anastasia> "Yes, we can hope," Ikkuko murmurs, thinking. "We can hope dear sister Chisato comes by again."
[19:52] * Usagi-chan just heads over to the couch, flopping down on it with a groan. "I'm just tired of dealing with her, and even when I TRY to avoid her she pops back up again."
[19:53] <Anastasia> Heading into the kitchen, Mom just shakes her head again. "This should be the last time... I hope."
[19:53] <Usagi-chan> "You and me both," Usagi grumbles.
-------
Some minor setup missing here...
-------
[13:16] <Sailor_Anastasia> Sitting up now perhaps a pause of regret, "How about for some dinner? I missed lunch today," she smiles at you - because the two of you ended up sitting on the roof again, enjoying the view.
[13:18] <Haruka> "You just want to fatten me up so you'll have a more fluffed out pillow," Haruka says with an exaggerated sniffle, rubbing at her eyes.
[13:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Maybe," she smiles again, standing... but not truly rising to the bait. "Where did you want to go?"
[13:25] <Haruka> "I don't have any real preference," Haruka admits with a shrug. "If you've got any place in particular in mind we can go."
[13:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> "How about that ramen place we saw on the way here?" she just shrugs a bit. "I only have a bit of money on me, anyway."
[13:33] * Haruka tuts at that. "Don't worry so much over price as it's my treat," she jokingly scolds Viluy with a waggle of her finger. "But ramen does sound pretty good," she drawls.
[13:35] <Sailor_Anastasia> Smiling to that, "Let's go, then... you can drive, or do you trust me with your car, Haruka?"
[13:39] * Haruka cocks her head slightly at that in thought. "Hmm..." she says, peering closely at Viluy in examination. Haruka gives her a quick kiss on the nose before tossing her the keys. "I trust you."
[13:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Thanks," she smiles back, giggling a bit at the kiss. Leading you down and out, it's a short drive there. Viluy isn't a bad driver - not great, but passable enough. On parking, it's a simple walk in, seat yourself and order sort of place. Smells good, though.
[13:45] <Haruka> "Looks like a nice place," Haruka comments, taking a curious glance around the place. "I wonder if they've got anything interesting..." she says aloud, scanning the menu.
[13:46] <Sailor_Anastasia> It's not much to look at - simple plastic chairs, a main bar, et al. The menu is simple enough, and on the cheap side. Nothing unusual in Tokyo - it's the sort of thing you could find a hundred times over in the city.
[13:51] <Haruka> When the time comes, Haruka orders for the pair and, while waiting, she stares across the table at Viluy while kicking around some random thoughts in her head. She wonders what exactly goes through Viluy's mind on those occasions where she hesitates, as if battling to come to some decision before acting.
[13:53] <Sailor_Anastasia> Viluy does seem a bit distant for a bit as you order, but comes back to reality by the time you're done. "Fried noodles," she smiles at the choice.
[13:58] <Haruka> "Is it hard for you?" Haruka asks Viluy curiously in slightly quiet tones.
[13:59] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Hum," she asks, turning to you. "It's... something, yeah," she admits, looking away. "It's something I have to think about and deal with, Haruka."
[14:04] * Haruka nods a bit sadly at that. "I wish it wasn't so hard for you," she admits, giving Viluy a slightly apologetic look.
[14:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> "It's alright," she smiles back, a hint of tiredness on her face. "I love you, Haruka. It's just something I need to get used to."
[14:08] * Haruka simply nods back in reply before falling quiet. That Viluy has to struggle so, is just one of the worries that has been gnawing on Haruka lately. That the feelings she's expressing are truly Viluy's is yet another...
[14:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> The silence is matched by Viluy, and broken by someone you didn't really expect it to be broken by. "Haruka? Viluy?" the voice of Professor Tomoe breaks into your awareness, Hotaru's a moment later. "Haru-chan? Vil-chan," the girl smiles, still wearing her school uniform.
[14:14] <Haruka> "Yo," Haruka returns with a wave. "Fancy meeting you here, Prof." she begins before noticing the other guest. "Hey, Hotaru. How's it going?" she greets with a smile.
[14:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> 'Prof?' Smiling politely, "Hotaru and I are just stopping for a late lunch," he nods, Hotaru doing the same. "Good to see you."
[14:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> Hotaru smiles. "We're just picking something up - Dad rented movies for us to watch." Professor Tomoe nods, "We won't be here long, don't let us interrupt your meal."
[14:33] * Haruka smiles at that. "Sounds fun," she tells Hotaru before turning to Viluy in a whine. "Why don't we ever do anything fun like that?" Haruka teases, then failing to hold back, she lets a chuckle escape.
[14:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> Half-glancing at Hotaru and the Professor, "We can tonight," she offers, not really sure WHAT she wants to say at the moment.
[14:43] * Haruka sports a wide grin. "And just like that, Haruka has her way again," she notes with a satisfied nod.
[14:44] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nodding, "You two have been spending the last few days together, from what I've seen," he notes.
[14:46] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Uh... yeah, we have," Viluy says, most ungracefully.
[14:46] <Haruka> "True," Haruka returns, amusedly.
[14:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> Glancing at the two of you, Hotaru smiles suddenly, "Just like how Sis and Usagi-chan spend all their time together."
[14:56] * Haruka chuckles and smiles at Hotaru at that. "Right," Haruka says without any hesitation.
[14:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> Professor Tomoe raises one small eyebrow ever so slightly, but he merely nods. "Come on, Hotaru. The take out should be ready," as he herds her over he nods and smiles. "Have a good meal... and congratulations."
[14:04] * Haruka notes the reaction internally. "Interesting reaction by the Prof," she comments to Viluy with a smirk.
[14:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> Viluy nods just a bit, blushing a bit. "Maybe he didn't wish to intrude on our private time," she ventures, trying to play it off.
[14:08] * Haruka shrugs, the seeming issue below her concern at the moment as she waits for her order. "So, one of these days we'll get around to a music lesson, right?" she asks, shifting the topic and focus of conversation.
[14:09] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yes," she nods, a bit more interested now by her gaze coming back to you. "We seem to keep getting interrupted whenever we try to make music."
[14:12] <Haruka> "And such sweet music we'd make," Haruka comments, before a grin makes its way onto her face, making plain the stray thought that entered her mind.
[14:14] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Ye-" she begins before her own eyes widen, blushing rather deeply and looking away. "Oh, look, the meal is here," she manages after an embarrassed pause, your order is indeed ready.
[14:17] * Haruka chuckles, finding the reaction to be highly amusing yet adorable at the same time. "Looks good," Haruka comments, taking the steaming bowl from the server and thanking them.
[14:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> Getting her own serving, Viluy gets her chopsticks and breaks them cleanly, stirring the hot food to cool it. "It does," she says quietly, a bit distracted. "Though... If Hotaru knows, she'll probably tell Rei soon enough, and then Usagi will know. And so on."
[14:23] * Haruka snaps her chopsticks then frowns as it snaps off-center, but uses it nonetheless. "Why, does it bother you?" she asks, looking up at Viluy curiously.
[14:27] <Sailor_Anastasia> Still stirring her food, "...That they know?" she asks curiously, but already knowing the answer. "I... wouldn't have made the offer if I couldn't live with it getting out," is her reply after a few thoughtful seconds. "It's not even that uncommon around these parts, is it?"
[14:31] <Haruka> "If you look at the couples who we know, then no, it's not all that uncommon, I guess," Haruka notes before slurping down some noodles.
[14:36] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Rei and Usagi... and I heard something about Ami as well," she says quietly, "And..." Viluy chuckles unexpectidly, "Perhaps Cyprine and Ptilol, though I'm glad they aren't here to hear me say that."
[14:58] <Haruka> "Rei, Usagi, and Ami I know about," Haruka replies with a nod, "But Cyprine and Ptilol?" She puts a finger on her chin at that. "Well, I guess..."
[15:01] <Sailor_Anastasia> Laughing ever so lightly now, "It's an old joke I told a time or two under Germatou's influence. It was meant to be catty at the time, but it's just kind of amusing now."
[15:05] * Haruka nods at that. "Honestly, I don't spend much time around most of the Witches outside of you and Eudial, so I wouldn't be able to tell fact from fiction if you mentioned it."
[15:07] <Sailor_Anastasia> "We didn't ever spend much time with each other," Viluy notes, beginning in on her noodles, a few at a time. "We've been doing it more lately, though. It's easy to relate to them since we've been through the same nightmare." At that, Viluy glances to you. "You and the other Senshi tend to be closer to each other than us... Eudial's kind of the exception."
[15:09] <Haruka> "There's nothing stopping you guys from doing the same," Haruka points out, savoring a spoonful of the broth.
[15:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> "We do see each other some," Viluy nods agreement, still picking away at her food slowly, "It's just that... we tend to break into those two groups without even meaning to sometimes. It's just the way it's gone. I like Usagi and respect her a great deal... but I'll probably never feel as close to her as, say, Tellu, the Twins... or even Eudial," the last is said with a small chuckle.
[15:17] <Haruka> "I can sort of relate," Haruka tells Viluy. "I may be one of the Senshi, but I still can't totally relate with the others," she admits, pausing briefly to gather her thoughts, "There's people, places, things that the inners have encountered together that I was never a part of so I'm always going to be slightly on the outside."
[15:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> Getting to her broth, Viluy lifts the bowl up with both hands, gently letting the broth run into her mouth - and not slurping. After doing so and lowering it, "It can't be helped, and there isn't anything wrong with it. I'd like to get to know Usagi, Rei and Makoto some more, though. I've had some time with Ami when we were working on the teleporter... she's a nice girl, if painfully shy."
[15:28] <Haruka> "I've been trying to work with her on that actually," Haruka says with a slight chuckle. "But darn if she isn't a tough nut to crack." Haruka frowns slightly at how fat the noodles have become and decides to just go for some of the soup for now.
[15:29] <Sailor_Anastasia> Pushing aside her half eaten bowl, "I think she's a loner," Viluy replies. "The type to stay in the library all day and read... kind of like me when I was a kid," Viluy smiles. "Or mess around with an old Apple Computer and reprogram it."
[15:35] * Haruka blinks then snickers as the image is so appropriate. "Yeah, that sounds like Ami," she admits before adding, "There's nothing wrong with that, really. It's just that sometimes I get the sense that she doesn't want to be alone though, but doesn't quite know how not to be. Like she's gotten too good at being a loner." Haruka rests her chin on her palm. "Or maybe it's just me looking too deep into it... Ah, what do I know," she says with a soft chuckle.
[15:40] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Perhaps," Viluy says, pausing as the tender passes to order a glass of water. "I think you may be right... we tried talking once... but she kept letting it lapse, even though she was really interested."
[15:43] * Haruka blinks, slightly curious at that. "Interesting. What was the topic about?"
[15:44] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Just something related to our classes," Viluy replies, nodding. "It wasn't even that important... she just kept having problems leading it on."
[15:53] * Haruka rubs her chin and hums thoughtfully in response then turns her gaze on Viluy. "It'll be yet another something to mull over for when I see her next. Such a difficult charge I have," Haruka tuts jokingly. "About ready to go? The day is young, and there are places outside the noodle stand to go and see, right?" she asks Viluy with a wink.
[15:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> Standing at that and reaching into her purse, "What did you have in mind?" she asks, as she takes out the needed yen notes.
[16:00] <Haruka> "I would tell you," Haruka begins teasingly, "But it's a secret," she finishes, with a drawl. She waggles her finger before Viluy then says, "It's for me to know, and for you to soon find out."
[16:01] <Sailor_Anastasia> Smiling slightly now and tapping her cheek with her forefinger, in a gesture that reminds of you of another, "We shall see, then."
[16:12] <Haruka> -----------
[16:13] <Haruka> A short ride in the car finds the pair nearing the coast, the sea breeze streaming through the open window and the cry of gulls in the air creating a nice setting. Parking the car and a short walk takes them to an unoccupied strip of beach with a tidepool nearby.
[16:16] <Haruka> "I hope you weren't already expecting this," Haruka asks Viluy, while stretching comfortably, taking in the scenery.
[16:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> "It's nice," she says quietly, glancing up at the still warm sun in the sky.
[16:23] <Haruka> The waves wash to and from the shore rhythmically as the wind blows steadily - cool, but not chilly. "Only nice? Well, hopefully I can do better in the future," Haruka returns, brushing her hair back away from her eyes. "This is one of my favorite places."
[16:24] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Well... I don't really like the beach, even now," Viluy murmurs, taking hold of one of her remaining white strands. "As a child, I went to the beach once... and with my skin, I had a terrible sunburn for a week. Never could really enjoy the beach after that."
[16:28] <Haruka> "One bad experience shouldn't keep you from visiting a nice place like this," Haruka says walking now to stand next to Viluy. "I hope you'll at least give it a chance to make better memories?" she asks hopefully, seeking Viluy's eyes to see if they say differently.
[16:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> Viluy's eyes are half lidded closed in the bright sunlight, though she smiles back with sparkling eyes. "We'll give it a chance," she agrees, "But..." glancing around, "I didn't even bring a bathing suit."
[16:37] <Haruka> "Oh, you don't REALLY need a bathing suit if you want to go swimming," Haruka points out with a nod.
[16:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> Turning away abrupty and hiding what must be a prize winning blush, Viluy is silent a bit... then turns with a slightly teasing smile, tapping her cheek again. "I don't know, Haruka. Why don't you show me?"
[16:53] * Haruka meets Viluy's teasing smile with a challenging grin. "One article of clothing for one article of clothing?" Haruka asks, and without waiting for a response she takes off her coat jacket then says, "Your turn I believe."
[16:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> Fumbling just a bit at being called on her bluff, "Why not," Viluy recovers quickly, removing a silver earring.
[16:58] <Haruka> "It's clothing for clothing, cheater!" Haruka points at Viluy accusingly, laughing. "Foul! I call foul! Where's the ref?" she pleads to the non-existent crowd around her.
[16:59] <Sailor_Anastasia> Giggling, "You're looking at her," she recovers. "Why don't you take off those slacks, if you're so serious about going to swim?"
[17:04] <Haruka> "I claim the dress if the price is my slacks," Haruka returns, turing her head away with a sniff. Peeking her head back towards Viluy to catch her reaction she goads, "Up to it?"
[17:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> Blushing even more so again and starting to lose her nerve, "Well... I don't know," she retorts. "I'd like to see what's there before if I decide if those slacks are worth it, Haruka."
[17:10] * Haruka cocks her head to one side, a grin gracing her face. "Oh? Is that your wish, princess?" Haruka teases, placing a hand on her waistband.
[17:10] <Sailor_Anastasia> Smiling again now as her blush starts to subdue, "Yes it is, Haruka. Going to do it?" she asks, staring intently... at you? Her gaze is slightly off center.
[17:16] * Haruka blinks, caught off-guard momentarily at Viluy's answer. 'Well, I did start this game afterall...' she thinks to herself then shrugs. "As you wish," is Haruka's reply as she slowly removes said article of clothing. She tosses it to Viluy when done, as her shirt drapes, trying vainly to cover in a futile attempt.
[17:17] <Sailor_Anastasia> Catching them slightly off balance, Viluy smiles sweetly now. "Haruka?"
[17:20] * Haruka twitches slightly at the 'sweet smile'. A sure sign that trouble was brewing... "Yes?" she ventures forth in reply, matching Viluy's sweet tones.
[17:20] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:20] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[17:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> "This," Viluy smiles still... as you feel a bit of water splashing into the back of your heel, the sand beneath you getting soaked... but you are mostly missed. Viluy blinks at that, suddenly blushing. "Damn." Playing it off, "No, nevermind."
[17:25] * Haruka feels the bit of water against her heel and turns around to look behind her. Suspicion and affirmation coming together slowly at Viluy's action. "You didn't just try to do what I think you just tried to do, did you?" Haruka asks Viluy, looking at the girl from the corner of her eyes.
[17:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> Laughing a bit with a tinger of nervousness, "You mean this," she asks in giggly humor.
[17:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[17:26] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[17:27] <Sailor_Anastasia> A burst of water comes from the ocean, salty and tangy..but too short again, only sending a few droplets to you and most of it to the sand. Viluy sighs just a bit at that, shaking her head. "I can get it to work so well in the bathtub, too..."
[17:31] <Haruka> "Oh, you're just asking for it!" Haruka says quickly, rushing towards Viluy in a try for a grab!
[17:31] <Haruka> roll 2d6-4
[17:31] * Hatbot --> "Haruka rolls 2d6-4 and gets 1."
[17:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> Getting the silver and green haired girl as she yelps in complaint, most ungracefully, is a simple matter, your arms going around her slender hips and lower ribs. Your pants caught between your arms and her body, you have her pinned down good.
[17:36] <Haruka> "Oh we do love playing with water," Haruka notes in whimsical tones. "But it's oh so much fun as a pair," she speaks into Viluy's ear as she makes a dash towards the water. "Ready, steady, go!" she crows.
[17:39] <Sailor_Anastasia> "But I'm still wearing my school uni-" Viluy protests as you dive in past your head, your entire bodies getting wet in the deeper than expected pool. Coming to the surface a moment later, Viluy blinks and rubs the water out of her eyes as she treads water.
[17:41] * Haruka breaks the surface of the water with a cry, shaking the water off her head like a wet dog. "Gah! Cold!" are the words that leaves her lips initially and she follows up by giving Viluy a mischevious grin. "Are we having fun?" she asks playfully.
[17:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> Trying to give you a disapproving glare, Viluy soon breaks into light chuckles instead. "Not quite yet," she says, cutting her arm up to send a splash of water right in your face! "Now I am," she nods, enjoying herself in a way. "I think I dropped your pants, though..."
[17:45] * Haruka blinks for a second. "I guess it's no big los-- WALLET! KEYS!!" she screams, making a frantic dive below the water for said pants.
[17:46] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Unadjusted body check, Haruka.
[17:46] <Haruka> roll 2d6
[17:46] * Hatbot --> "Haruka rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[17:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> Diving, you see that a current is starting to move your pants as they sink, but you can get to them before they get taken too far out, emerging with your prize!
[17:53] * Haruka emerges, wiping the water from her face as she secures her treasure. "Oh, yes. Getting home minus pants and all would've been interesting," she comments, grinning at Viluy.
[17:57] <Sailor_Anastasia> Still laughing warmly, "At least you have the legs for it," she teases you openly, matching your grin.
[17:59] <Haruka> "Do I?" Haruka tosses back playfully. "So you've been watching closely, eh?" she says with a chuckle.
[13:06] <Anastasia> That gets another hint of red in her cheeks, "Well... you really do," she admits, "You should wear dresses more often, Haruka. They really are pretty."
[13:11] * Haruka chuckles in reply. "I only do dresses for special occasions and upon request," she says with a nod, her tone slightly teasing at that.
[13:13] <Anastasia> "Maybe I should request that you wear more dresses," Viluy smiles fondly, really getting into it. "We could even go buy you some frilly, cute dresses after class tomorrow."
[13:16] <Haruka> "Frilly? Cute?" Haruka spits out, the two words rolling off her tongue strangely as she gives Viluy an incredulous look. "Haruka Tenoh may be many things, but 'frilly and cute'?"
[13:16] * Haruka shivers slightly at the thought, and it wasn't from the temperature of the water either.
[13:17] <Anastasia> Giggling again, "Certainly, Haruka. Grow your hair out a bit and with a nice bow? You'd really look like the Princess of Uranus."
[13:20] * Haruka sticks her tongue out at Viluy in reply. "I'm happy in my role being your prince, princess," she adds with a pout at Viluy's grandiose feminization ideas.
[13:23] <Anastasia> Starting to laugh in earnest, "Haruka... but you'd look so cute in that... or a really nice kimono..." Amid a sea of snickering, Viluy shakes in enjoyment.
[13:27] * Haruka pulls at a lock of her hair, studying it intently. "Well..." she begins, "It's not like I've gone to get it cut lately so maybe I'll let it grow out a bit." She turns her head quickly, looking at Viluy. "But I'll only go so far - nothing wacky, you hear?"
[13:42] <Anastasia> Still smiling, "You know..." Viluy teases, going further, "Since your pants are gonig to be soaking wet when we get out... why don't you borrow my dress," she offers.
[13:45] <Haruka> "Your soaking wet dress?" Haruka asks with an amused expression. "Leaving you with nothing?" she asks in clarification, with a finger on her chin. "Oh, I do like the sound of that." Haruka nods her head in approval. "So bold."
[13:49] <Anastasia> "Not like THAT," Viluy smiles, splashing you a bit more. "I was going to wear your pants in that event."
[13:52] * Haruka turns her head, taking the splashing on the back of her head instead as she chuckles. "You're quite adamant about getting me into a dress, aren't you?" she replies, sending a wave of her own towards her playmate.
[13:58] <Anastasia> "You look good in them," she nods, as she gets splashed full on. "And it's a shame that you hide your nice body underneath male clothing," Viluy admits further, pausing a moment. "You're really pretty, Haruka."
[14:03] * Haruka stops short at that, blushing now despite herself. "Uh... thanks, I guess..." she replies back rather lamely. She runs her hand through her hair in an awkward, nervous gesture shooting Viluy an uncertain glance. "I don't think anyone's really said that about me... I'm not quite sure how to take it..." she finishes, turning away slightly.
[14:07] <Anastasia> "You are," Viluy insists, gliding closer into the water, just by you now. "Your neck is so slender and pretty, your hair is healthy and shiny, you have a great figure..."
[14:14] * Haruka feels her heartbeat quicken a pace as she feels Viluy's presence draw nearer. She's at a loss as to how she should react or say. It felt strange, yet familiar at how quickly the supposed predator turns into prey.
[14:15] <Anastasia> Reaching out as it to lay a hand on your shoulder, Viluy hesitates instead. "So... yeah, you have a good body," she murmurs, suddenly turning away and blushing deeply.
[14:20] * Haruka was anticipating contact, almost feeling the warmth from Viluy's finger upon her shoulder, but when it did not come as expected, it left a pang of dissapointment and longing behind. The strange hesitation that Viluy suddenly exhibited only served to further muddle the feelings within her.
[14:23] <Anastasia> Starting to head to shore and having lost her smile, "Why don't get get going?" Viluy suggests. "We can sit on the beach and dry out in the sun."
[14:28] * Haruka sighs at that. "Sure..." Haruka answers, rather hollowly. 'Is this how it's going to continue?', she asks herself before following her up to shore.
[14:29] <Anastasia> Getting onto the beach, Viluy just lays down on it, a bit away from the tide. The sun shines down on her fair skin and wet clothes, the latter clinging tightly to her ample body. Her distracted, inwardly-sent gaze shows that she probably doesn't even really notice that...
[14:33] * Haruka takes a seat as well, not close, but not far either. She draws her knees against her chest then rests her chin upon them as she stares out at the ebbing tide, letting her thoughts take her.
[14:34] <Anastasia> This goes on for a little bit, a semi-comfortable/awkward silence falling over the two of you. Finally, as if the stress of it is too much, "Hey, Haruka," Viluy asks, staring up at the sky.
[14:36] * Haruka turns her head to regard Viluy, her face half obscured by her arms that she has pillowed on her knees. "Yes?"
[14:38] <Anastasia> Still staring at the sky, "It's funny, isn't it?" is all she says, smiling strangely.
[14:39] <Haruka> "What's funny?" Haruka replies questioningly.
[14:51] <Anastasia> "That I stopped," Viluy says, sitting up and inching towards Haruka, with in reaching range now. "I said I loved you, Haruka... but I stopped laughing when I was about to..." Looking down with some guilt on her face, she reaches out, taking your nearby hand. "...It's not so hard, and it shouldn't be so hard, right?"
[14:54] * Haruka allows her hand to rest in Viluy's, though she's unable to totally meet her eyes. "It shouldn't be..." she says, not hiding the sadness that colors her voice.
[14:58] <Anastasia> "Yeah," Viluy nods, inching a bit closer. "I... should be able to do this because I truly want to, right," With that, Viluy leans in, her lips brushing your own a moment before she backs off.
[15:03] * Haruka keeps her eyes closed on contact, savoring the feel, the smell - every little detail she could discern. 'Always drawing towards me then pulling away...' she notes with a mental whisper, as she opens her eyes to watch Viluy now, quiet.
[15:05] <Anastasia> "I want to do that with you, Haruka." Viluy turns to you, meeting your gaze. "I want the chance to be able to... even stronger now, after today. But... it's not easy. Can you be patient for me?"
[15:08] * Haruka searches within herself for an answer and the immediate reply was - 'I don't know if I can...' - but the words that left her lips: "Sure, I can wait." She even gives Viluy a smile for reassurance though where it could have come from she couldn't say.
[15:12] <Anastasia> "Thanks," she smiles again, again going out to meet your lips with hers, a moment longer this time. "I... think I want to try and work this out, Haruka. I really do."
[15:15] <Haruka> "I know you do," Haruka replies. 'And that's what makes this hurt more...' she finishes in the privacy of her own mind.
[15:17] <Anastasia> "Thanks," she smiles again, a touch more upbeat now. AFter a moment... "I... can I lay next to you," she asks, curiously.
[15:20] <Haruka> "You don't even need to ask," Haruka tells her, shifting slightly.
[15:21] <Anastasia> Coming over to lay side by side, the drenched girl is strangely warm. "I..." she says, a moment later gently exploring your shoulder to rest her head, "We're still young, Haruka. We'll have time to work this out, won't we? Whatever happens..."
[15:23] <Haruka> "Whatever happens," Haruka echoes, trying to draw comfort from the shared closeness.

[09:08] <Ana-breakfast> ---
[09:10] <Sailor_Anastasia> It's been a week or two since the Mugen rooftop battle, a few weeks since having reclaimed a normal life again. The drone of classes, studying and such picks up for Ami. On getting on a crosstown bus to finally head home after a long evening, Ami plops down in the first seat she finds. Even getting better, these... sessions still left her sore.
[09:13] * Ami-chan gingerly rubs her thighs, and rests her head on the window, suffering in silence as best she can.
[09:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> Your entire body aches from your rough-and-tumble practice, so it takes a few minutes to notice something. Out of the corner of your eye, you can just see the person in the seat next to you staring. You can't tell much about him/her at this angle, though, other than wearing a light summer shirt of some bright color.
[09:23] * Ami-chan blushes in mild embarrassment, the attention making her slightly uncomfortable. She shifts the angle of her head a little... and tries to get a better look at the person without actually catching them staring.
[09:24] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[09:24] * Musk-bot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[09:25] <Sailor_Anastasia> Adjusting your view just so, you can kind of see some of the person. Blonde, curly hair, not too long, and a brand new, bright white T-shirt.
[09:28] * Ami-chan hesitates for a moment, her curiousity piqued, as the what she can see doesn't ring any bells. Exaggeratedly slowly, she turns her head, hoping they'll look away, so she can get a better look.
[09:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> As you do, the girl - it's a girl, you can tell, perhaps 15 - starts a bit. With a shoulder length spread of blonde hair around her head, orange eyes like amber and a slightly guilty expression at the moment, she rings a bell. "Excuse me," she says quickly, turning.
[09:36] * Ami-chan nods silently, looking on for another second, then resumes her original position, her mind working furiously to identify the girl. There's something about her that tickles at the back of her mind...
[09:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> You can't seem to recall it offhand, though a minute later, the faint sound of music is heard. Sounds like someone just put on a Walkman and headphones that don't quite keep the sound in all the way. Sounds pop-ish, maybe a female voice.
[09:40] <Ami-chan> Ami blinks, looking around for the source of the music curiously, taking the opportunity to take another quick glance at the blonde girl, and racking her brain for the reason she seems familiar...
[09:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> It's coming from the girl from before, as she holds a Walkman. The song is familiar after a few seconds, too. It's one of Full Moon's - Minako's - songs, though the girl in question frowns, the music cutting off. "Damn battery," she realises, sighing and taking the headphones off. Catching your eye as you pass, "Yes?"
[09:46] * Ami-chan blushes darkly at being caught. "I'm sorry." she murmurs. "I feel like I should know you... I mean... you look familiar to me, somehow." she stumbles, her blush darkening. "It's probably nothing. I'm sorry to disturb you."
[09:48] <Sailor_Anastasia> She frowns at that, then blinks. "Oh. It's probably nothing," she shakes her head quickly, almost too forcefully. Smiling then, "The name's Yurika Morifuji," she says, smiling.
[09:55] <Ami-chan> "I'm Ami Mizuno." Ami replies politely, smiling back. 'Well, she's nice enough, even if her reaction was a bit off... though, she did catch me looking. What do I say now?' Ami wonders nervously.
[09:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Nice to meet you," she goes through the rote nicely enough, forging on. "You don't happen to have a battery on you, do you? My Walkman just died..." she smiles, charmingly, "and I hate not having music to listen to."
[10:03] <Ami-chan> "I'm not sure..." Ami smiles slightly. "I'll check, though." She adds, happy to have something to guide her through the situation. As she roots through her satchel, she ventures a timid attempt at conversation. "Are you a Full Moon fan?"
[10:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yeah," she smiles. "She had a lovely voice... and I even met her for a few days before she died," she smiles wistfully at that. "I didn't know it was her at the time, though."
[10:09] * Ami-chan locates a package of AA batteries at the bottom of her satchel for her own Walkman, though it isn't on her at the moment. "She did." Ami agrees regretfully, the occaisional memory flitting through her mind. "Are these okay?" She asks, offering them to Yurika.
[10:14] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Thanks," she lights up a bit, taking them as eagerly as a druggie takes their next fix, or as quickly as Ami takes her next soda. "These'll work." Nodding along as she changes batteries, "Yeah, I talked to her for a few days, but she left off on that last tour of hers before I really got to know her."
[10:16] * Ami-chan tries to decide if that's a good or bad thing. "What was she like?" she asks softly, overcome by curiousity.
[10:17] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Well," she says, closing the battery feed to her Walkman, "She was a nice enough girl, outgoing. A bit dramatic from what I saw, but it was showmanship, I think."
[10:22] <Ami-chan> With a tremendous force of will, Ami keeps a straight face, nodding slowly. "Mmhmm. She was good at that." she comments softly.
[10:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Really," she nods. Thinking a bit, she frowns as a small fragment or two connects in her mind. "Say... yes. She was a very gifted woman." At that, the bus stops, Yurika glancing up. "That's my stop, Ami."
[10:28] * Ami-chan blinks in surprise, then nods. "Well, It was nice to meet you, Morifuji-san." she replies, smiling.
[10:29] <Sailor_Anastasia> Standing, she looks on at you a moment, her smile slipping as she seems to consider something. "I won't be in town past tomorrow morning... I'm just visiting a friend," she says out of the blue. "Tell Eudial... that she won't have to worry about me trying to rig her car," Yurika says as she walks away, out onto the streets.
[10:31] * Ami-chan blinks... then blinks again as she watches Yurika leave. 'What??'
[10:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> The bus rolls on as Ami stares, leaving away from that one girl... and yet keeping all of the questions that Ami was just left with.
[10:34] <Ami-chan> 'I wonder... but... she knew Minako...' Ami shakes her head, waiting for her own stop, her mind spinning as she tries to remember where she'd seen her before. 'I definitely need to talk to Eudial, now...'
[10:46] <Sailor_Anastasia> The next day is a school day, so it's not a big deal to track Eudial down during lunch. Finding her enjoying sandwiches with Tellu in the gardens is a bit of a surprise, but it doesn't take you THAT long to track her down. "Hey, Ami," Eudial looks up from a meaningless conversation with the other Witch.
[10:48] * Ami-chan smiles. "Hi..." she greets, waving to both Tellu and Eudial as she approaches. "Have you got a moment?"
[10:51] <Sailor_Anastasia> 'Sure, sit down," Eudial gestures vaguely at the blanket spread out near the most wonderful-smelling bushes. Finishing off her lunch with a big, final bite, "What's up, Ami?"
[10:54] * Ami-chan smooths her skirt under herself and gracefully settles to the blanket, smiling faintly at the pleasant smell. The gardens never fail to impress and relax her. "I met someone on the bus yesterday." she begins slowly. "She seemed familiar, but I couldn't recall her - but she mentioned you. Do you know a Yurika Morifuji?"
[10:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> Shifting a bit so that her glasses clad face and white lab coat turn towards you, "Yurika? Nope, never met a Yurika." Eudial shakes her head, Tellu doing the same. "I knew a Yurika in elementary school, but that's it."
[10:57] * Ami-chan frowns. "You wouldn't have had a car then..." she mutters to herself. "I wonder what she meant? She said to tell you you didn't have to worry about her 'trying to rig' your car..."
[11:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> That causes Eudial to look up, much more interested now. "Rigging my car? Ami, what did this Yurika look like, anyway?"
[11:05] * Ami-chan blinks. "She was blonde, and had strange, amber colored eyes... kind of slight, and wearing new clothes." Ami ventures. "It was kind of distinctive... I still feel like I should know who she was..."
[11:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Mimette," Tellu blinks, Eudial following a moment later. "Whoa, whoa, whoa. What the hell was Mimette doing there, Ami?"
[11:12] * Ami-chan blinks. 'Mimette?' she wonders, then nods to herself. "That's who it was." she nods, then blinks at Eudial. "She said she was in town visiting a friend." Ami replies, shrugging.
[11:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Professor Tomoe mentioned that he heard she was moving out of the city," Eudial nods, her good mood gone into a slight frown. "Good for her, then."
[11:18] * Ami-chan nods hesitantly. "I guess that explains why she was staring at me." Ami sighs. "There was something very odd about that whole conversation... though, that could be just my reaction to her opinion of Minako." Ami sighs, leaning back on her hands. "So... It's nothing to worry about?" she asks Eudial tentatively.
[11:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Shouldn't be," she says after a moment, tersely. "That's right... she met with Minako a few days before she ran off - Germatou wanted to make her a Witch as well."
[11:20] * Ami-chan says nothing, but her horrified expression speaks volumes of her opinion on -that-.
[11:22] <Sailor_Anastasia> "She and Rei came into Mugen in the same exam class," the girl goes on, "and he wanted to use both of them. If Minako hadn't just picked up and vanished, she'd have been turned a few days after Rei was."
[11:24] * Ami-chan nods, sighing. "I feel bad about being glad she left." Ami admits. "But... it seems it really was for the best."
[11:27] <Sailor_Anastasia> Mood souring even more with an outright frown, "Yeah. She and I didn't get along, and she wasn't happy here after Germatou left."
[11:28] * Ami-chan nods, wincing at Eudial's expression. "I apologize for dredging up the topic." she murmured.
[11:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> Eudial is quiet for a bit, mood starting to stew. Standing up, "No, thanks for telling me, Ami," she says shortly. "Tellu should have some more sandwiches if you're hungry," she finishes, going off.
[11:33] * Ami-chan watches Eudial leave, then glances over at Tellu. "Will she be alright?" she asks softly.
[11:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I think so," she says quietly, nibbling on her own sandwich. "Mimette's just a sore spot for a few of us."
[11:39] <Ami-chan> Ami nods slowly. "Much like Minako is for us?" she ventures.
[11:40] <Sailor_Anastasia> A small nod from the green haired girl. "I think so, yes..." she pauses. "Want to trade stories, Ami?" she asks quietly, a bit uncertain. "I never got to hear that much about Minako, and I'd bet you're curious about Mimette."
[11:43] <Ami-chan> Ami nods, smiling equally tentatively. "If you don't mind, I'm willing." She agrees.
[11:44] <Sailor_Anastasia> Smiling a bit, she reaches over into a small bag, taking out a can of soda and a prewrapped meat sandwich. Of note, on getting it, you notice no lettuce or anything vegetable-like - just meat. "Do you want to start, or should I?"
[11:47] <Ami-chan> Ami smiles warmly, and nods her thanks, settling into a more comfortable position, unwrapping her sandwich. "If you would?" Ami asks, blushing a little. "I still have to decide -where- to start..."
[11:49] <Sailor_Anastasia> Smiling back a moment until she leans back and thinks, "Eudial and Mimette got off on the wrong foot from the beginning," she starts. "I don't remember what it was, but they got into a nasty argument within a few days. This was by the standards of the Deathbusters, too, Ami. We all kind of disliked and distrusted each other, but those two had some real hatred going on."
[11:52] * Ami-chan swallows a bite of her sandwich, blinking in suprise. "That's... fairly impressive." she mumurs.
[11:54] <Sailor_Anastasia> "No kidding," she smiles thinly. "Within a month, they nearly got into a fistfight, but Professor Tomoe stepped in. From there? They tried to undercut each other whenever they could. That thing about the car? Eudial caught Mimette trying something with her car once, or something. It's a miracle both of them were still alive after that."
[12:00] * Ami-chan nods, recalling the red-head's protective attitude toward her vehicle... well, besides exposing it to the intense danger of her own driving. "That sounds like a really bitter feud..." Ami murmurs. "Professor Tomoe didn't take steps to settle things?"
[12:01] <Sailor_Anastasia> Tellu just chuckles at that darkly, to clash with her normally brighter, quieter persona. "Germatou rarely stepped in if it didn't get in the way of their work. He seemed amused by it..." Shuddering, "Though, he also got amusement from other sick things."
[12:02] <Ami-chan> Ami wrinkles her nose. "Yes, he was... not only evil, but bizarre..." She agrees.
[12:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Insane," Tellu says with growing distaste. "He loved it when I created a hideous mutation on the Venus flytrap... feeding it lab rats made him howl."
[12:07] <Ami-chan> "..." Ami replies, having no good reply to that. "That's..." she trails off, shaking her head. "I can't think of a word strong enough..."
[12:09] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Monstrous. Demonic. Cruel," Tellu shudders again. "Once in awhile, he'd be so wacky and funny you could even relax a bit... then he'd do something that no one in their right mind would ever consider. And... we'd often laugh with him back in those days, too." Looking away quietly, "We even had a talk of making a bigger mutated fly trap, if the DNA hadn't been too unstable."
[12:12] <Ami-chan> Ami shakes her head. "There were some mitigating circumstances, Tellu." she says kindly. "It's not as though you wanted what happened. I'm just glad Usagi was able to help you all." she adds, tentatively.
[12:14] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yeah," Tellu says, introspective. "We'd never have broken out if Usagi hadn't helped us, except for Eudial," she smiles at that. "And that leads me to the next part - Rei."
[12:15] * Ami-chan smiles and nods, taking another bite, and opening her soda, waiting for Tellu to continue.
[12:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> Taking a moment to sip at her own can of soda and take a few breaths, "Rei's coming along really started the beginning of the end of the Deathbusters, Ami. Eudial was assigned to get her integrated in smoothly, but something happened - they became friends instead." Smiling now, "Under Germatou, we really didn't have any friends or even want any. With the way they were acting, a few of us... Kaolinite, mainly, thought they were lovers instead of
[12:21] <Sailor_Anastasia> friends. It was really the only conclusion we could come up with, Ami. We didn't understand something like friendship once Germatou got his fangs into us." Taking another breath, "But I won't go into Kaolinite here... that was more of Rei's rivalry. Anyway, I don't think Mimette took it too well. Not in any sort of jealousy, but in the simple way that you hate to see someone you hate get ahead."
[12:26] * Ami-chan blinks, shaking her head, having fought off the urge to smile at thought of Eudial and Rei together. "That's... strange... and a little sad." Ami replies softly, taking a few sips from her soda. "It was just one more thing about Eudial, then?"
[12:27] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Yeah," is Tellu's simple reply. "Things got worse between them again, until there was a fight in the Witches office between Eudial and Mimette, only a few weeks before Sailor Moon came. Eudial broke Mimette's jaw, among other things."
[12:31] * Ami-chan winces, and nods slowly. "I can suddenly see why Eudial wasn't too happy about what I said." she says thoughtfully. "I can't imagine that helped things..."
[12:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> "No... and it was one hell of a fight," she recalls. "I was there for it... Eudial slammed Mimette's face into the bare concrete floor a few times, Ami. It just made things worse. But Sailor Moon came before it could reach critical mass."
[12:37] * Ami-chan bites her lip. "That's... a relief, of sorts." she sighs. "I wish we had found out sooner..."
[12:38] <Sailor_Anastasia> "It... would have been nice," is all Tellu says to that, quietly. "Be it as it may, you senshi saved almost all of us. But... the damage was already done in Mimette's case. Her and Eudial..." she trails off, thinking. "I doubt they'd have been friends even without Germatou, maybe even hated each other anyway."
[12:42] <Ami-chan> Ami sighs, shrugging. "That's as may be... there are a people like that, but what you describe... even if they hate each other, I doubt it would have come out so... brutally without -him-." Ami replies, frowning.
[12:43] <Sailor_Anastasia> "That's true," she concedes. "But it was there... and they really didn't make peace afterwards. And since Eudial was close to Rei and the rest of the Senshi, Mimette felt left out and out of place, so she left Mugen."
[12:47] <Ami-chan> Ami nods, slowly. "Do you think she still holds a grudge?" Ami asked, feeling guilty now about being a tool to irritate Eudial with.
[12:49] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I don't know... she only talked to Professor Tomoe before she left," Tellu shrugs. "I tried to talk to her once, but she didn't really want much to do with us."
[12:54] * Ami-chan nods. "If she is only here to visit a friend, she had me pass on the message to annoy Eudial?" Ami wonders. "Or maybe that... and a roundabout way of letting you all know she's alright?" Ami blushes. "Though, that may be reaching."
[12:54] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I hope it's that, Ami, I really do," she smiles a bit, blowing out a breath. "She's... a nice person, and I hope she's doing well wherever she is."
[12:57] * Ami-chan nods, smiling a little. "For what it's worth, she looked well." Ami offers, smiling back. "She was nice enough, smiling until it came time for her to get off the bus."
[12:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Good," Tellu smiles back, trying to banish the ghosts of the past. "Good for her..." Stopping to get another sandwich, "At this rate, no dinner tonight," she murmurs, then shrugs. "It's your turn now, Ami."
[13:11] * Ami-chan smiles sheepishly. "Mm." she nods, finishing her soda. "I don't know where to begin. Minako joined the senshi some time after Mako-chan, and things were ordinary enough, at first. Even her eventually admitting to feeling for Rei wasn't too out of the ordinary... but she began to show strange behavior patterns."
[13:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nodding, she stopst when feelings and Rei come up. "Wait. Rei and Minako were... together, Ami?"
[13:13] * Ami-chan blinks, blushing darkly. "I'm sorry. I've had so long to get used to the idea, I forget that not every knows that. But... yes, for a time, Rei and Minako were a couple."
[13:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Strange," she muses, mentally adding that to her view of Rei. "Anyway... go on, please."
[13:19] <Ami-chan> Ami leans back. "Where was I... Oh, right." she frowns. "Minako started out as simply irresponsible. For example, she once used a disguise compact to turn Artemis into her twin, and sent him to school in her place." Ami begins, wryly.
[13:20] <Sailor_Anastasia> That gets quite a blink from Tellu, before she just gawks. "That white cat who can talk... into a ... human girl?" she looks on. "To take her place at school?"
[13:22] <Ami-chan> "It gets worse." Ami confides. "The disguise magic was quite thorough... and it was 'her time'... Poor Artemis..."
[13:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> That gets a second blink. "As in... her time of... oh dear," she says, a tiny smile coming to her lips. "Oh DEAR."
[13:25] * Ami-chan smiles... just slightly. "Yes." she nodded. "It was amusing, but I think it traumatized him." she laughs softly.
[13:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I can't blame him," she smiles. "The first time was a bit of a surprise for myself, too," Tellu admits. "The burdens of being a girl are so great."
[13:29] * Ami-chan giggles. "True. And they always tell us we have it easy..."
[13:29] <Sailor_Anastasia> Giggling back, "They'd run screaming after the first bout of cramps," Tellu agrees.
[13:30] * Ami-chan covers her mouth, laughing harder. "Which describes his reaction almost perfectly." she admits, between snickers.
[13:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> Still chuckling, "The poor dear probably would have tried to use toilet paper instead of what he was supposed to."
[13:33] * Ami-chan manages to smother her laughter for a moment, grinning. "Actually... he didn't even do that... he panicked. Which... didn't do Minako's reputation any favors..."
[13:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Panicked? Oh dear," she says again, trying not to laugh. "What did he do... he didn't do something stupid, did he?"
[13:36] <Ami-chan> "I could never pry all of the details out of him." Ami replied, the corners of her mouth twitching. "But really, if you consider Minako was forced to transfer, it couldn't have been a pretty sight."
[13:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> Shaking her head and still amused, "So she transferred over to Mugen with Rei then?"
[13:40] * Ami-chan shakes her head. "Not quite. At first, she transferred to Rei's school." Ami replies, her mirth dropping off a bit. "Unfortunately... that's where the trouble started."
[13:41] <Sailor_Anastasia> Frowning a bit and thinking, "Rei went to that T*A Academy, didn't she?"
[13:44] * Ami-chan nods solemnly. "It didn't last long." she sighs. "On her first day, they managed to get expelled."
[13:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Wow," is her simple reply, glancing at her watch. "Guh," she mutters. "Ami, are you in a hurry?" she asks. "I lost track of the time... it's mid way through the next period now."
[13:47] * Ami-chan blinks, and glances at her own watch. "Eep." She looks up at the green haired girl apologetically. "I did as well." She groans softly.
[13:48] <Sailor_Anastasia> Sighing, "Well... I can just say that Professor Tomoe needed me and be all right. Heck, at this point, my teachers don't even ask for a note when I miss class," she smiles a bit. "It helps to know Professor Tomoe, at least... so if you want to stay..."
[13:51] * Ami-chan thinks a minute, then nods. "I'd like to." she smiles, settling back down. "If you don't mind, that is."
[13:51] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I don't," she smiles, standing. "I just need to run to the bathroom and we'll pick this up, alright?"
[09:11] <Ana-away> Coming back perhaps five minutes later, Tellu sits back down. "Go on, Ami. You were just saying something about Minako and Rei getting thrown out of that academy?"
[09:16] * Ami-chan smiles as Tellu returns, then leans back, partially reclining as she restarts her story. "Mmhmm. I can't tell you the whole story, as I'm not sure what Rei would like kept private..." she begins. "But Minako decided to involve herself in something she really shouldn't have... and as a result, got them both sent to the headmaster."
[09:19] <Ana-away> Nodding along, "Go on," she nods, idly wondering what Minako stuck her nose into.
[09:25] <Ami-chan> "Before I tell you the rest," Ami began seriously, "You have to understand Rei's state at the time. She'd suffered horribly at Metallia's hand, and was still recuperating when this happened." she explains. "But at any rate, as they were about to be punished, Minako decided to berate the headmaster." Ami sighs. "Poor Rei... but, in the ensuing argument... there was an incident. Involving a fire on the headmaster's desk."
[09:26] <Ana-away> "I can understand that," Tellu says quietly, a bit of her silent melancholia from before creeping back in. "Did Rei lose control, Ami?"
[09:30] <Ami-chan> Ami nods. "Fortunately, it wasn't too serious... only poorly timed. They were summarily dismissed from T*A Academy."
[09:31] <Ana-away> Thinking quietly, "So that's why they ended up coming to Mugen, Ami? Because T*A expelled them? Or..." she trails off, frowning and doing some mental math, "was there another school they went to between those or another incident?"
[09:44] <Ami-chan> "Well... They did have a month or so before the entrance exams." Ami adds, nodding. "I spent some time helping Rei prepare... but this was also during another difficult time for us." she glances at Tellu curiously. "Have you heard the others talk about Orestes, Oxyite, and Cynthia?"
[09:49] <Ana-away> "I've heard of Oxyite from Professor Tomoe," Tellu nods. "The man who blew up the city block? Germatou had a bit of a fit over it - he thought that sort of energy generator could have been extremly useful for us, and when I asked him about it, he told me something about it."
[09:55] * Ami-chan nods slowly, smiling a little. "It might have been nice to introduce them." She laughs softly. "Oxyite was... nearly unstoppable... his destroying that city block... it was a pyrrhic victory, at best." she sighs. "Ahem. That's a little off topic, though." Ami amends, blushing. "At any rate, we spent most of the time before their applications to Mugen trying to deal with that mess."
[10:00] <Ana-away> "I'd like to talk about Oxyite later, actually," Tellu says quietly, before letting Ami go on. "Professor Tomoe only spoke in broad terms about it, and I was curious as to what got that monster's attention like that."
[10:02] * Ami-chan nods, blushing slightly. "I'll answer your questions as best I can." she promises, inwardly wincing over how to explain that.
[10:03] <Ana-away> With a small smile, "Go on, Ami. Go on."
[10:10] * Ami-chan smiles back, and bites her lip thoughtfully. "Hmm... Minako began demostrating some disturbing qualities almost immediately thereafter." She begins. "Right after that fight, while Rei, Usagi and Minako were recuperating, they happened to see a news report about the battle with Oxyite. Apparently, Minako was offended that so few people had actually died... the words they told me she used were 'just like in a video game'.
[10:11] <Ami-chan> Anyway, the diatribe ended with her throwing her sword through the television." Ami finishes in mild distaste.
[10:12] <Ana-away> "Her... sword," Tellu murmurs, as her eyes make a fairly good widening impression as she soaks that in. "That sounds insane... like a breakdown, almost."
[10:14] * Ami-chan nods, sighing. "In retrospect, that's probably exactly what it was..." she sighs. "And her behavior got only more puzzling and upsetting from there."
[10:16] <Ana-away> Tellu frowns, but says quiet so Ami can keep speaking, only the slight rustling of the plants making any other noise.
[10:27] <Ami-chan> "During our battle with the final enemy... Rei was fairly seriously injured." Ami begins slowly. "I only mention that because that's the only reason I can see for what happened next." Ami pauses, shivering a little at the memory. "Minako managed to defeat Orestes... she was forced to kill him. But Cynthia... the others had managed to take most of the fight out of her... but she was still alive."
[10:30] <Anastasia> "And...?" Tellu asks quietly, half dreading what would happen next.
[10:36] <Ami-chan> Sometime during the fight... Minako had gone completely berserk." Ami adds reluctantly. "Orestes was dead, and Cynthia was in no shape to fight. Rei had gone over to her to yell at her..." Ami smiles wanly. "You know how she is. But while she was standing over her... Minako shot her." Ami falls quiet for a long moment. "She died in Usagi's arms."
[10:38] <Anastasia> Tellu sighs. "Was Cynthia... could she have been saved, Ami?" she inquires of you. "Or... did she just shoot her in cold blood?"
[10:40] <Ami-chan> Ami wrinkles her nose slightly. "I... it -looked- like it was in cold blood." Ami admits, sighing. "But she fainted shortly after, then denied knowing anything about it when she woke up."
[10:45] <Anastasia> Thinking and just looking away, "I see. Then what, Ami?"
[10:48] * Ami-chan sighs. "After some thought, Rei blamed herself for Minako's... incident." she sighs. "She concluded that Minako's closeness to her had affected her adversely, causing the situation... and broke up with her. Minako didn't say a word... only dropped her henshin pen and communicatior in my lap and disappeared."
[10:53] <Anastasia> "And just like that she ran off," Tellu sighs. "That's... she sounds like she was losing her mind from the way you're telling it, Ami."
[10:55] * Ami-chan winces slightly. "It does, doesn't it?" she agrees. "Seen from this perspective, I have to agree... At the time, though... we didn't know what to think."
[10:56] <Anastasia> "So... then what, Ami?" she asks, curious to see the tale go on.
[11:03] <Ami-chan> "To summarise... She refused to come home at all... and after a fairly intense fight with Artemis, she finally contacted Usagi, around Christmas day." Ami replies. "She spent a few weeks away to settle herself... and when she came back, she and Rei applied to Mugen."
[11:04] <Anastasia> "Had she calmed down and found herself again?" Tellu asks, curious. "Or did she at least find help while she was gone?"
[11:06] <Ami-chan> "I don't know." Ami admits, a mirthless smile on her face. "But... judging by her behavior on the moon, I don't think so." Ami frowns at the memories of -that-.
[11:14] <Anastasia> Almost wincing at the thought of something else going wrong with Minako, "What was the bombshell on the Moon?"
[11:24] * Ami-chan sighs. "Usagi and I brought the others up to the moon for the first time after we'd already done some work on it." She begins, showing a slight bit of uncharacteristic irritation. "It... well, I won't bore you with excessive detail. She was quite rude, and seemed to be going out of her way to annoy, but we managed to ignore her... for the most part."
[11:26] <Anastasia> "It sounds like she came back with a grudge," Tellu ventures after thinking a bit, idly pondering as she leans back and plays with her hair setup, letting one small orb free at a time as she rests.
[11:39] <Ami-chan> "That hadn't occured to me... but I wonder." Ami ponders, watching Tellu play with her hair with a wan smile. "That evening was really the final blow. Things got... strained, from that point. Shortly after, she left." Ami sighs.
[11:41] <Anastasia> Continuing to free her hair - it's looking to be rather long untied, flowing down her back in small waves as each is released, "I know how much you, Usagi and all the others value that project, too," she says, "And... how much I do, even, for the gardens up there."
[11:44] * Ami-chan idly admires Tellu's hair. Unbound, it's quite striking... "I'm... It seems egocentric, but I'm proud of what I helped accomplish up there." Ami sighs. "But... she made a mockery of the whole thing... it still grates on my nerves."
[11:47] <Anastasia> Fishing out a brush for her hair from her school satchel, "That..." she just shakes her head quickly, sending up a small flurry of green hair. "After all the work you must have put into it, she said that?" Pursing her lips, she frowns deeply.
[11:49] <Ami-chan> "... Yes." Ami replies softly, sighing. "I... I don't really know why, but there it is."
[11:51] <Anastasia> Beginning to brush her hair slowly, "That... that..." Tellu cuts herself off quickly before she can expound on that, however. "Was that the end of it, Ami?"
[11:54] <Ami-chan> "Essentially. Shortly thereafter, she left on tour... where she stayed until her accident." Ami smiles a little. "Not exactly lurid detail, but you know the whole story, now."
[11:59] <Anastasia> "Yeah," she says, still in a rather slight huff over Minako's almost long-ago antics. "Did... had she truly lost her mind? I heard some of her music, Ami, and it was really pretty. It's hard to reconcile that with the Minako I just heard about."
[12:03] <Ami-chan> "I... want to say yes, but... as you say, there were parts of her that were at a direct contrast to what she showed us..." Ami smoothes the grass with her fingertips. "I suspect we'll never know what drove her."
[12:06] <Anastasia> "Then... at the least, I hope she found some measure of peace in death, if she was such... such like an insane person." At that, she continues to brush, throwing the hair over her shoulder and working on it that way.
[12:13] <Ami-chan> Ami runs a hand through her short blue hair and smiles at Tellu. "It would be nice..." she agrees. "if possible, I'd like her to be happy."
[12:23] <Anastasia> "Yeah," Tellu replies. Laying back on the blanket and curling up her legs so you aren't given anything but the barest flash of white panties, "If she couldn't find peace in this world, may she find happiness in the next."
[12:27] * Ami-chan politely doesn't notice the glimpse, almost blushing. "I've never really thought about it much." Ami admits. "If there is another world, I hope so..."
[12:28] <Anastasia> Using her satchel as a headrest of sorts as she curls up at an angle to still be able to see Ami, "I think there is," Tellu says, voice low. "For people like Minako... or like Kaolinite, who may have not gotten a chance or any peace in this world."
[12:36] * Ami-chan nods slowly. "I hope so..." she agrees uncertainly. "Some really do need it." she adds. "I just... find myself doubting. Maybe I'm getting jaded..." She murmurs self-deprecatingly.
[12:39] <Anastasia> Looking up from her position, "With all that's happened... that why I believe so, Ami," Tellu goes on. "If there are monsters like Germatou and Pharaoh 90 somewhere out there, there must be others out there that are more... merciful, or even care about us."
[12:43] * Ami-chan smiles, a little wistfully. "That would be nice." she agrees. "I wish we could see them, though... it's hard to believe when you see people hurt and miserable..."
[12:46] <Anastasia> "Wouldn't it," Tellu smiles at you, full of hope. "An anti-Pharaoh 90, someone who would come and help us instead of a beast that wants to bring Silence..."
[12:53] * Ami-chan smiles at Tellu. "It would." She agrees. "Someone to even take up some of our work, protecting people..."
[12:57] <Anastasia> "So we could all live normal lives again," Tellu finishes softly. "No Deathbusters, no alternate worlds, no relics like Zirae..."
[13:00] <Ami-chan> "The senshi could retire..." Ami smiles slightly. "No more danger... or weighing down the team..." she sighs.
[13:02] <Anastasia> "Or just sitting in your greenhouse and hoping your friends don't get hurt," Tellu whispers, "Because you'd just get yourself and them hurt if you tried to help."
[13:02] <Anastasia> Tellu's slightly happy mood vanishes like ice cream in front of a known rabbit, a sadder expression taking the smile's place.
[13:07] * Ami-chan looks over at Tellu with a sympathetic smile. "We have something in common." she replies softly.
[13:08] <Anastasia> "Yeah... do... do you ever watch your friends fighting or helping out and just feel worthless, Ami," she asks slowly and quietly. "Like an extra part that should be cut off?"
[13:14] * Ami-chan nods, equally slowly. "Mmhmm. Like you want badly to help... but no matter how hard you try, you can't accomplish anything... and usually get hurt in the process?"
[13:15] <Anastasia> "Like the infected appendix of the Witches?" Tellu asks without a shred of humor, and maybe a touch of depression. "At best, you'll just leak out and make the others have more trouble?"
[13:17] <Ami-chan> "All the time." Ami sighs. "I've tried to improve... but the only effect so far is getting bruised on a regular basis..."
[13:18] <Anastasia> Tellu is quiet for a bit, then, finally speaking again. "You think we'd be able to help more if we tried to improve like that, too... but..."
[13:20] * Ami-chan smiles weakly, her own mood taking a turn for the worse. "Yes... but..." She trails off.
[13:21] <Anastasia> "It hasn't, has it," she finishes sadly
[13:26] * Ami-chan shakes her head, hugging her knees to her chest. "No..." she murmurs. "I've still been nearly killed..."
[13:30] <Anastasia> "While our friends come back just fine every time... you're lucky that if you had went, that they won't be carrying you back... or what's left of you."
[13:32] * Ami-chan nods. "And worrying about them getting hurt... or worse when you can't fend for yourself." She whispers in agreement.
[13:34] <Anastasia> "... yeah," Tellu murmurs, looking away, up at the greenhouse roof. "Just... yeah."
[13:39] <Ami-chan> Ami sighs softly. "Have you talked to them about it?" She asks, sighing.
[13:39] <Anastasia> "To Professor Tomoe," she says after a bit more. "He said that I should be happy doing what I'm doing - I didn't need to risk my life if I couldn't handle it."
[13:42] <Ami-chan> "I haven't been able to work up the nerve to mention it to Usagi, or the others." Ami admits. "I've tried learning on my own, but... I can't seem to get better, or stronger..."
[13:45] <Anastasia> "Mmmm," Tellu sighs. "Well... this is lovely," she says, trying to break out of this. "I'm depressed now."
[13:47] * Ami-chan laughs quietly. "Same here. Do you think they'd miss us if we went out?" Ami asks tentatively.
[13:48] <Anastasia> "Probably not... I wasn't planning on leaving the greenhouse today, anyway," Tellu sighs. "They'll probably just stop by the offices and go about their lives like they always do. I... I'm going to take a nap here and try to cheer up," she finishes after a short pause.
[13:54] <Ami-chan> Ami smiles slightly, nodding. "Alright..." she begins, then hesitates. "Tellu... do you want to be alone?" Ami asks softly. "Usagi says ice cream is a 'surefire cure for the blues', but I'd rather not go by myself..." She offers, a little shyly. "I promise to stop being depressing."
[14:04] <Anastasia> A short pause, the girl thinking. "...sure," she says finally. "I'm not in the mood to go to my last classes, anyway."
[11:33] <Anastasia> Heading out soon after, the two of you slip out of Mugen to the nearest ice cream parlor. It's a short trip, at least - these sort of places tend to spring up around schools for the obvious reasons.
[11:35] <Anastasia> It's a nice little place, a few Mugen students who ditched or got out of last class already there in a few of the booths.
[11:36] <Anastasia> Getting some vanilla ice cream for herself, Tellu goes for a booth - the general conversations you have are better kept private, obviously.
[11:40] * Ami-chan orders herself a small dish of chocolate ice cream... then goes ahead and asks for chocolate syrup and sprinkles, hoping that Usagi is right about that. Getting her order, she heads to the booth where Tellu is, smiling slightly as she seats herself. "If Usagi finds out about this, I'll never hear the end of it..." she comments wryly.
[11:41] <Anastasia> "Not sharing ice cream with Queen Serenity is a capital offense," she ventures, trying to lighten the mood.
[11:42] * Ami-chan giggles a little, nodding. "I expect if there's ever an economy on the moon, Usagi will try and base it on frozen treats." she agrees.
[11:43] <Anastasia> Smiling, "A Moon full of ice cream churneries," she muses quietly. "She'd make her own heaven up there."
[11:47] * Ami-chan smiles. "It -does- sound pretty close..." Ami admits, grinning as she spoons up a mouthful of frozen chocolate items. "Not many people don't like ice cream, and... mm." Ami comments, blushing. "It's been a long time... I'd forgotten how good it was."
[11:48] <Anastasia> Taking a small scoop out of her own ice cream and swallowing, Tellu nods. "I don't eat much ice cream myself," she comments. "Mostly just meats and bread. It's easy to forget how nice sugar is, too."
[11:51] * Ami-chan nods, smiling, and swallowing another bite. "Or addictive." Ami agrees, a little embarrassed.
[11:53] <Anastasia> Nodding again and licking a bit of stray vanilla off of her lips, "Yeah. It's easy to sit at home and go through a quart of this stuff..."
[11:55] <Ami-chan> "Or more, if you don't pay attention." Ami agrees. "Artemis would probably stop me, though."
[11:56] <Anastasia> Nodding as she continues on with her treat, "How is he? I've never seen much of him besides when the Holy Grail was summoned."
[12:00] * Ami-chan smiles. "He's fine... though he's pushing me to take better care of myself." Ami reveals, smiling a little. "It's kind of funny getting lectures on common sense from him, but the concern is nice."
[12:04] <Anastasia> Chuckling, "How so, Ami? Eat better, exercise, that sort of thing?>"
[12:07] <Ami-chan> "Actually, he wants me to cut back a little on my exercise." Ami replies, blushing. "Well, no, that's not quite right. He wants me to sleep better, and cut down my caffeine intake." She pauses frowning a little. "I'm not sure I can, though... I've come to kind of rely on it..."
[12:09] <Anastasia> Thoughtfully here after a short stop, "Yeah. Well... at least get some more sleep," Tellu suggests, then smiles. "I can show you a place to nap in the gardens if you want - it's warm and secure there, the plants will look over you. Take some time out and catch up on your sleep, Ami."
[12:14] * Ami-chan blinks, beginning to smile a bit. "That... thank you." Ami begins warmly. "That'd be really nice."
[12:14] <Anastasia> Smiling now, "Once I introduce you to the plants, they'll keep an eye on you," Tellu assures you.
[12:18] * Ami-chan nods. "They wouldn't mind my presence?" she wonders thoughtfully.
[12:20] <Anastasia> "They like company," Tellu reassures you again, smiling at the thought. "Give a plant a bit of love and attention and they'll be happy." Though, she does frown a bit then. "It's a miracle that even with my abilities that they survived the Deathbusters..."
[12:23] * Ami-chan nods slowly, and gently tries to deflect that line of thought. "I don't know..." she replies, smiling just slightly. "Judging from the changes at the shrine, you seem to be capable of working a miracle or two." she observes. "I envy your ability."
[12:25] <Anastasia> "Thanks, Ami," she almost glows at that. "It's a small gift... I just know how to talk to plants, it's mostly them once they get a few kind words."
[12:32] <Ami-chan> "I wouldn't downplay your part in it, Tellu. Mako-chan is good with plants, and I know a gardener down at a beautiful park near my home, but yours... Well, I've never seen anything like it." Ami smiles. "We're involved in battle a lot, but creating something beautiful is just as much an accomplishment."
[12:36] <Anastasia> Blushing now, "It's... I'd almost rather be able to help the rest of you in battle, though," she admits.
[12:40] * Ami-chan sighs a little, and nods. "I can understand that." she agrees softly. "I've been working at my own... deficiencies in that area... but at least we can strive to improve, right?" Ami ventures, hoping equally to convince herself and the girl across from her.
[12:41] <Anastasia> "I... I guess," she says finally. "I can't shoot lightning or hearts or fire like you girls can, or make things or spells like the other Witches to battle with. The one time I tried to help Rei and Eudial fight..." she shakes her head. "It failed completely, and did some damage to the surrounding plants."
[12:43] <Ami-chan> Ami ponders for a moment. "Maybe... I can help you, there." she suggests shyly.
[12:46] <Anastasia> "Really?" Tellu asks, a bit curious. "How, Ami?"
[12:48] <Ami-chan> "Well... I can't teach you any magic... I'm servicable with my senshi powers, but not a standout, like Rei or Usagi... but, if you like, I might be able to prepare something like Eudial's fire buster for you." she suggests. "Hmm... Well, preferably something more to your tastes, but..." she trails off, shrugging embarrassedly.
[12:53] <Anastasia> Thinking that over carefully, "I'd... I'd like that, Ami," she says quietly, smiling. "I don't know what you can come up with, but I like the idea."
[12:57] * Ami-chan brightens a little at Tellu's acceptance of the idea. "I'll think it over, and make some suggestions later... and you should, too. Then we'll see what we can come up with?" she offers.
[12:58] <Anastasia> Smiling, "Alright. How about tomorrow after class?" she suggests. "Since we'll both have makeup work to get?"
[13:00] * Ami-chan winces, then laughs ruefully. "True. That sounds fine." she agrees with another smile.
[13:03] <Ana-brb> ---

[12:07] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[12:10] <Sailor_Anastasia> It's been about three weeks since Zirae left this world. It's not a big event that breaks Makoto's pace of life, not at all. It's just that glancing at the date, she realises something. She's four days late for her time of the month, and not a trickle from down there. Nothing at all.
[12:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> Despite that, the day goes by without incident until lunch... when you find yourself idly craving hot sauce and peanut butter for your rice.
[12:28] * Makoto pauses a bit in thought but shrugs. She isn't really sure why she has the craving, and decides to ignore it, sticking to a normal lunch. 'Must be picking some weird cravings from hanging out with Alan and Ann...'
[12:29] <Sailor_Anastasia> The next two days go without note, until the third morning. On eating your breakfast, your stomach starts to get queasy and the faint taste of bile starts to rise in Makoto's throat...
[12:33] * Makoto covers her mouth as she starts to feel sick and rushes to the bathroom.
[12:34] <Sailor_Anastasia> You just make it in the nick of time, your stomach heaving its contents into the porcelain bowl. THis goes on for a bit, until you feel sick and empty, a final dry heave wracking you.
[12:38] <Makoto> "Ughh..." Makoto says outloud, feeling like crap. 'Why am I feeling crappy right now?' she asks herself, noting she felt just fine earlier. 'Maybe the milk was bad?'
[12:39] <Sailor_Anastasia> There is no answer, other than the fact that your stomach is telling you that school is probably best skipped today. Ugh...
[12:44] <Makoto> Not wanting to get into much trouble, she calls up the school to say she'll be absent today from sickness, then hunts for Dr. Mizuno's number about getting a checkup when she's feeling up to getting to her office.
[12:44] <Sailor_Anastasia> You are in luck in that respect - they are fairly open today, tomorrow and the day after. You could get an appointment on any of those days without too much hassle.
[12:47] * Makoto is feeling rather lousy, but feels it best to get it done today. She asks for an appointment in the afternoon though, so Alan can help her get there after school and so she can sleep in right now.
[12:50] <Sailor_Anastasia> On sleeping a dream-filled but forgotten sleep, Makoto wakens near noon - oversleeping indeed, and quite hungry. Her nausea is gone, replaced with the strangest hunger. Radishes. Taht's what you want - those fresh radishes in your refrigerator you bought last night.
[12:54] * Makoto, feeling really hungry, doesn't fight her urge, and goes to get the radishes from the fridge. Washing them and then slicing them into thin slices, she also gets some limes out and squeezes the lime juice and some salt on the radish slices before letting it settle for a bit, so that the lime juice and radishes can absorb into each other.
[12:55] <Sailor_Anastasia> As you do this, the smell of the radishes makes you almost go crazy with hunger...
[12:56] <Makoto> Feeling the twinge of hunger a bit too sharply, Makoto decides it's settled enough, even though it hasn't been even 5 minutes, and just starts eating the mix for her lunch.
[12:56] <Sailor_Anastasia> It's really rather good, you find yourself almost gulping it down machine gun style... perhaps the elves are rubbing off even more, as you finish it far quicker than normal.
[13:05] <Makoto> As she finishes her lunch, dabbing her mouth with a napkin, Makoto checks the time to see how much longer before Alan gets out of school so she can call him and she can head to see Dr. Mizuno.
[13:05] <Sailor_Anastasia> At least a few more hours - it's only just past noon. Strangely, you find yourself thinking about those hot beef bowls at that stand at the park while doing this... mmm...
[13:07] <Makoto> 'Mmm...a beef bowl would be so good about now...' Makoto thinks but shakes her head. She wasn't feeling well and shouldn't be going out until she saw the doctor. 'Maybe I should just lie down and sleep some more.'
[13:08] <Sailor_Anastasia> Makoto ends up doing so, failling into a light sleep on her couch. Come 3 PM, she wakes, knowing Alan should be home shortly.
[13:16] <Makoto> Figuring he should be home soon enough, Makoto decides to watch TV in the meantime. Alan should be home within half an hour or so.
[13:17] <Sailor_Anastasia> Within ten minutes, however, there is a knock on your front door. "Makoto," Alan calls. "Are you home yet? Makoto!"
[13:18] * Makoto blinks at that and heads to the door. "I didn't even call you yet," Makoto mutters to herself with a small smile before shouting, "Coming!"
[13:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> Alan is indeed there, a white undershirt worn with the gray student pants. HIs overjacket is slung across his shoulder, sweat trickling down his face. "Hey," he smiles, coming in... and going right to the refrigerator, pulling out a cold drink. "Thought I'd stop by, since I had to come this way anyway."
[13:21] * Makoto smiles and shakes her head. Some things just didn't change. "Thanks. I was actually going to call you in a while to ask if you could stop by. I haven't felt too well this morning and wanted to go to see Ami's mom."
[13:21] <Makoto> "I didn't want to go alone in case I start feeling bad on the way there..." she adds.
[13:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Sure," he nods, gulping down a can of juice rather quickly. "Just let me cool down and I'll teleport you over. If you're sick, you shouldn't go out in this heat."
[13:26] <Makoto> "Thanks, Alan," Makoto says appreciatively. Pausing she adds, "Can we stop at the park on the way? I've had this craving for some of the hot beef bowls there since earlier."
[13:27] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Alright," he agrees, taking a seat...then frowns a moment. "Say... Makoto...?"
[13:27] <Makoto> "Yeah?"
[13:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Maybe we should skip the beef bowls," he says diplomatically. "I don't have any money onhand, anyway."
[13:29] * Makoto rolls her eyes but replies, "Oh fine. I think the craving has somewhat passed anyhow..."
[13:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nodding, "That's good," he says, glancing at your midsection with another small frown. "Makoto... have you been eating a lot, lately?"
[13:37] <Makoto> "Uhm, maybe a bit more. But I'm still growing, so it's okay," Makoto replies in a defensive tone.
[13:38] <Sailor_Anastasia> Trying to smile a bit, his gaze goes a bit higher up. "I can see that," he tries to salvage, catching Makoto's tone.
[13:42] * Makoto frowns. "Anyway, are you ready?" she asks, trying to change subjects.
[13:43] <Sailor_Anastasia> He nods, seeing how THAT went sour in a hurry. "Sure," he smiles as best he can, taking Makoto's hand. "Ready?"
[13:43] * Makoto nods.
[13:44] <Sailor_Anastasia> At that, the apartment vanishes. Shortly there after, you are at the office. As you get signed in, "Do you want me to stay and take you home afterwards?" he asks. "If you do, I want to run home while you're in here."
[13:45] * Makoto nods. "Yeah, go ahead, just come back when you can, please."
[13:46] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nodding, he walks out as the receptionist gets you set up. "Doctor Mizuno will see you in about ten minutes, Makoto."
[13:48] <Makoto> "Thank you," Makoto says with a smile as she takes a seat in the lounge, and picking up a magazine, starts browsing through while she waits.
[13:48] <Sailor_Anastasia> It's a short wait, only about seven minutes before the door to the exam rooms opens. "Miss Kino," a nurse calls.
[14:14] * Makoto puts down the magazine as her name is called and heads towards the exam room. "That's me."
[14:16] <Sailor_Anastasia> Led inside to a rather typical exam room, the nurse takes your weight (you are up a grand total of two pounds), height, blood pressure, and a small gamut of questions about how you feel. On finishing, "Doctor Mizuno will be here shortly, Miss Kino."
[14:18] * Makoto nods as she sits and waits.
[14:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> It's a few more minutes before doctor Mizuno enters. "Makoto," she nods, holding the chart the nurse filled out. "You're complaining of stomach upset, yes?"
[14:29] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nodding, "Did you eat anything that tasted rotten or stale in the past twenty-four hours, or anything undercooked?"
[14:30] <Makoto> "I'm certain everything I ate was fine," Makoto replies. "And while I have had some odd cravings, I haven't really been paying attentions to them."
[14:30] <Makoto> "So I haven't eaten anything weird or such."
[14:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Odd cravings? Like what, Makoto?" the doctor asks, interested.
[14:31] <Makoto> "Uhm...well, yesterday I felt like having hot sauce and peanut butter on my rice," Makoto states as she makes a face. "I have no idea what I was thinking. Yech..."
[14:32] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Hm," she smiles a bit. "Makoto... have you and your boyfriend continued on intimate terms?" she asks, "I'm going to have some bloodwork taken, I think," she says as she goes over to a pullout drawer, getting out a needle.
[14:34] * Makoto blushes at Ami's mom's first question. "Uhm... y-yeah, did Ami tell you or something?"
? Missing a line or two here?
[14:40] <Sailor_Anastasia> Putting down the needle, Doctor Mizuno moves in, holding you on the shoulders. "Calm down, Makoto. I don't think you are anything. I just wish to do some bloodwork. Just in case."
[14:43] <Makoto> "O-o-okay," Makoto says a bit freaked, but a little calmer than at her outburst. "I'm not pregnant though, okay? I... I use protection, so I can't get pregnant."
[14:44] <Sailor_Anastasia> "That's right," she smiles, tying up you arm and making it go numb. "Just relax as I..." the prick of the needle going into your body makes you wince, as always.
[09:11] <Anastasia> Taking the blood sample, she smiles again at Makoto. "I'll be back with the results soon - bloodwork doesn't take too long, Makoto."
[09:18] * Makoto nods as she waits, albeit a bit nervously now that the good doctor has put the idea of pregnancy in her head.
[09:19] <Anastasia> There really isn't much to do as you wait - only a few pamphlets about minor health issues, and a few medical posters on the wall. Twenty minutes drag by before Doctor Mizuno comes in again, a small smile on her face. "Makoto," she nods. "The preliminary results of your blood work are in."
[09:19] <Makoto> "...and?" Makoto asks somewhat nervously.
[09:20] <Anastasia> "Ah... Makoto, as I told you, no form of protection is one hundred percent effective short of abstinence," Doctor Mizuno begins, trying to be professional and soothing. "Condoms can break, the pill can fail on occasion, human error can spring up..."
[09:33] <Makoto> "...oh god," Makoto says quietly as she lowers her head, putting her hands on her head.
[09:34] <Anastasia> Nodding, "You're about a month pregnant, Makoto," she goes ahead and drops the bomb. "Give or take a week either way, if the preliminary tests are correct."
[09:40] <Makoto> "A...a -month-?" Makoto says with shock, raising her head. "I've been pregnant for a month?"
[09:41] <Anastasia> "Roughly," Doctor Mizuno nods. "I won't know down to a week until the lab returns a full blood spectral analysis."
[09:46] <Anastasia> Going forward with a smile, "Makoto... do you want me to call Ami over and your friends?" she asks, guessing what the girl must be going through.
[09:48] * Makoto briefly considers the thought, but shakes her head. "...No. This is between me and Alan. And... and I don't want a party, and I know them well enough that'd they try to do something like that."
[09:48] <Anastasia> She nods. "Alright...is Alan here? If not, I can go call him for you."
[09:49] <Makoto> "He left when he dropped me off, but he said he'd be back," Makoto says in a subdued tone.
[09:51] <Anastasia> "I'll go check the waiting room," she says, starting to go, but she stops. Instead, she heads over to Makoto, wrapping her in a light hug. "Makoto... I know you - you are a wonderful girl who has lots of good friends. You'll come out of this all right, and Ami and I will both be here for you."
[09:51] <Makoto> "I... thanks," Makoto says awkwardly, thankful for the support. "I don't know if I'm ready for this though..."
[09:52] <Anastasia> "Most mothers aren't," she admits. "I had wanted to wait a few more years before I had Ami... but things worked out fine in the end."
[09:55] <Makoto> "Is... is pregnancy as painful as I heard it was?" Makoto asks timidly.
[09:55] <Anastasia> "Morning sickness, swollen feet and arms, sore back... it can have its downsides," she admits openly, with a bit of a 'yuck' face. "But, it all seems worth it when you feel your baby kicking inside of you."
[09:59] <Makoto> "Am I gonna have more weird cravings? I don't want to wake up wanting something weird, like... like liver ice cream with ketchup," Makoto says, stating the first weird thing she can think of.
[10:01] <Anastasia> Smiling, "It's part of the package," she comments, thinking back. "Whenever I got hungry with Ami, I always wanted baked fish heads." Chuckling at the memory, "It's just your body getting the vitamins and minerals your baby needs, Makoto."
[10:03] * Makoto makes a face at the thought of baked fish heads. "I don't have to listen to the cravings, right?"
[10:04] <Anastasia> "You don't HAVE to," she smiles, "But I found my pregnancy went easier when I wasn't resisting the urge to run to the fish market every few minutes."
[10:05] <Makoto> "Can't I just get vitamin supplements or something?" Makoto says, still making a face.
[10:05] <Anastasia> She nods. "As a matter of fact, I'm going to prescribe you some - it's just that pregnancy wreaks havoc on your hormones and feelings. Your body needs so much to make a healthy and happy child, Makoto."
[10:08] <Makoto> "I don't suppose I get a doctor's note saying I won't be attending school for 9 months?"
[10:09] <Anastasia> Shaking her head with a smile at that, "No... you probably won't go for the latter half of your pregnancy..." At that, she frowns and thinks a moment. "Do you still go to Juuban Middle, Makoto?"
[10:11] <Makoto> "Yeah, I didn't move to Mugen with the others to stay near Alan. And that didn't turn out all that well," Makoto says with a grumble.
[10:11] <Anastasia> "Are you two still together?" she asks gently, dreading the subtext to that comment.
[10:12] <Makoto> "Huh? Of course we are," Makoto says confused. "I mean, I don't see him too much cause he's in high school, but we still see each other. Why?"
[10:13] <Anastasia> "Oh," she smiles again. "Nevermind, Makoto. Anyway... if that's the case, maybe you should talk to Ami about transferring to Mugen? All of you seem to know the headmaster there from what Ami and Artemis have said."
[10:19] <Makoto> "I suppose I could, but I mean, I get to see him next year in high school right? If I move to Mugen now, it'd be the same as moving back then," Makoto replies.
[10:33] <Anastasia> "It's something to bear in mind, Makoto," she goes on. "Being a pregnant teenager will bring it's own complications - but being with your friends and an understanding school will help allay this."
[11:20] <Anastasia> "Anyway," she rises, "I'll go get Alan now."
[11:29] <Makoto> "Thanks, Dr. Mizuno," Makoto says, wondering how Alan will react to the news.
[11:30] <Anastasia> Shuffling out there after, she soon returns with Alan in tow. "Hey," he smiles.
[11:37] <Makoto> "Hey," Makoto replies quietly, with her own awkward smile. "Did Dr. Mizuno tell you?"
[11:38] <Anastasia> "Tell me what," he asks, smiling back a bit oddly. "Is something wrong, Makoto," he then glances at your doctor. "Is Makoto alright, Doctor?"
[11:38] <Anastasia> Doctor Mizuno just shakes her head. "Makoto is fine, Alan. Why don't you two talk," she says, quietly leaving the room at that.
[11:41] <Makoto> "Alan..." Makoto starts to say, pausing a bit, before just saying it out. "...I'm pregnant."
[11:42] <Anastasia> Alan blinks once, face going slack. "Wait... you mean... like having a baby," he asks slowly, mind whirring and crashing, voice a bit off kilter.
[11:44] * Makoto nods quietly.
[11:45] <Anastasia> Blinking still, Alan manages to make his way over to the exam table and sit next to you. "You're going to be a mother," he asks. "And I'm going to be a...."
[11:45] <Makoto> "A father," Makoto finishes.
[11:46] <Anastasia> "It.. it's..." he stuggles for the right words. "...ah... early, isn't it?" he finally says, thinking.
[11:48] <Makoto> "...Yeah," Makoto replies quietly as she leans against Alan's shoulder. "Yeah it is."
[11:51] <Anastasia> Sighing as he wraps his arm about you, "I... kinda didn't want to go ahead that quickly," he finally says. "I mean... damn. If we were, I'd at least want to have gotten married first."
[11:57] <Makoto> Makoto's heart beats a little bit faster at the thought of marriage, but squelching the thought for now, and digging herself closer to Alan's warmth, she asks, "So what do we do now?"
[11:59] <Anastasia> "Well..." he says slowly, "You're going to have a baby. I guess... we'll get married," he shrugs finally, not really having much else to think about at the moment.
[12:03] <Makoto> "I don't think we -can- get married, Alan. We're not just young for having a kid, we're young for getting married..."
[12:03] <Anastasia> "Oh," he says eloquently. "Well... damn, we're early," he says again, floundering.
[12:04] * Makoto giggles, unable to help herself. "That's okay, we can wait, I suppose. And besides... there's no law against getting engaged as far as I know," she says, finishing her statement with a larger smile.
[12:07] <Anastasia> "Yeah," Alan manages, still thinking. "Then... we're engaged now?"
[12:07] * Makoto frowns and getting up whaps him. "At least propose nicely!" she admonishes.
[12:10] <Anastasia> Rubbing the back of his head, he chuckles nonetheless. "Well... hold on," he says, vanishing abruptly.
[12:16] <Anastasia> Reappearing about two minutes later, "Sorry... if I'm going to do this..." he says, kneeling. "Makoto Kino... will you marry me?" asking so, he presents a vaguely familiar gold ring with a small garnet on it.
[12:18] * Makoto smiles and getting down to hug him tightly she whispers into his ear, "Of course I will."
[12:20] <Anastasia> "Good," he says, slipping the ring onto your finger after a quick separation, then rehugging you. Damn, that ring... did you see Ann wearing it before?
? Missing a line here?
[12:28] <Anastasia> Separating a bit later, "Well... we'll get a better ring later," Alan admits, blushing and rubbing the back of his head. "I just borrowed one of Ann's for the moment, since all those proposals on TV have rings, I felt like I needed one."
[12:32] <Makoto> "That's fine for now, Alan," Makoto says with a shake of her head, though still smiling. "It at least felt right."
[12:34] <Anastasia> Grinning now, "So... when do we tell the others, Makoto?"
[12:37] <Makoto> "When I see them again, I suppose. I'm not that much in a hurry," Makoto replies.
[12:37] <Anastasia> He nods. "I told Ann already when I borrowed her ring," he admits, "But I told her to keep it quiet at first."
[12:49] <Makoto> "Thanks, although I don't picture her going off telling everybody either," Makoto replies. "Did you tell her about the pregnancy also?"
[12:51] <Anastasia> "Not quite," he shakes his head. "She'll probably be able to make a guess, though."
[12:55] <Makoto> "I suppose," Makoto replies. Pausing for a bit, she suddenly blurts out the question, "Should we, uhm, move in together or something? I mean, for the baby and since we're engaged and all?"
[12:56] <Anastasia> "I guess," he nods slowly, smiling. "It'll be your apartment, since Ann is still using the one the Tree created..." Looking up, "Living together and having a baby..."
[14:31] <Makoto> "Yeah... not what I pictured now, but it was something I pictured eventually. Do you think we'll be okay?"
[14:34] <Anastasia> "Yeah, we will," he nods. "We're going to have a baby, Makoto... so we'll be alright."
[14:35] <Makoto> "How do you think Ann will feel about being an aunt?" MAkoto asks with a small smile.
[18:43] <Usagi-chan> -----
[18:46] <Usagi-chan> It's been almost three weeks since the last time Natsume heard from Usagi. After her brief visit to the blonde's home, she once again missed her appointment for training the next Saturday, and it's not until the following Friday that Natsume sees Usagi again.
[18:47] * Usagi-chan is walking home with Rei, the pair taking the scenic route today - Usagi felt like saying hello to Naru, and the two find themselves in the vicinity of Juuban Middle after Usagi's short chat with her redheaded friend.
[18:54] * Natsume is just walking through the front gates as Usagi and Rei approach. She waves at the blonde as soon as she sees her, before noticing the raven haired girl walking next to her.
[18:55] * Usagi-chan blinks in surprise as she recognizes Natsume, returning the girl's wave. "Oh, hey, Natsume!" she says with a smile, then winces briefly. "Oh man, I missed last week, didn't I?"
[18:56] * Rei-chan notices the wave and raises an eyebrow, before comprehension dawns at Usagi's words. "This is the Natsume you told me about?"
[18:56] <Natsume> "Ah, its no trouble really," Natsume says. "I managed to train well enough on my own."
[18:57] * Usagi-chan nods to Rei. "Yeah, this is Natsume. Natsume, this is Rei Hino, a very... CLOSE friend of mine." That gets a grin out of the blonde. 'If I was any closer we'd be glued together.'
[18:58] * Rei-chan snorts slightly at the mental commentary. "Nice to meet you, Natsume," she bows briefly. "Usagi's told me a lot about you."
[18:58] <Natsume> "I see, I hope isn't wasn't anything bad," Natsume laughs before bowing herself. "Kusanagi Natsume, a pleasure to meet you."
[18:59] <Rei-chan> "No, actually," Rei chuckles a bit. "She mentioned how you were working hard in your training with her, and have a lot of natural ability."
[19:02] <Natsume> "I'm honored that Tsukino-san speaks so highly of me," she says, blushing a bit. "But I still have quite a ways to go."
[19:02] * Usagi-chan nods, smiling. "I wasn't even thinking about that, but I really should spend some time with you - I'm curious how you're doing on your own. I'm REALLY sorry about last week, but things kind of got busy again and I forgot about it." The blonde blushes at that.
[19:04] <Natsume> "Really, its no problem, I understand you have quite a few responsibilities."
[19:05] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah, but I still feel bad about missing," Usagi says with a sigh. "There wasn't anything THAT pressing last Saturday, it was more me just forgetting about it." She grimaces at that. "Anything I can do to make it up to you?"
[19:10] <Natsume> "Hmmm, there isn't anything I can think of right now," Natsume says after a bit of thought. "Lets just make it an IOU for now."
[19:11] <Rei-chan> "How about a training session right now?" Rei suggests. "I wouldn't mind seeing what you've been learning, Natsume."
[19:12] <Usagi-chan> "That would work for me - I don't have anything else to do this afternoon," Usagi says after considering for a moment.
[19:13] <Natsume> "That's fine with me," she agrees. "Its been a while since I trained with an audience."
[19:14] <Usagi-chan> "Let's go then!" Usagi says with a smile. The three head off shortly thereafter, arriving at Usagi's 'training spot' in the park about ten minutes later. As usual, the area is quiet, and the shade from the trees overhead gives a welcome relief from the summer afternoon heat.
[19:23] * Natsume relaxes and attempts to form two energy kunai, something she had great difficulty with before.
[19:27] <Natsume> roll 2d6
[19:27] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[19:27] * Musk-bot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[19:28] * Natsume forms both kunai at once, one in each hand.
[19:28] * Usagi-chan nods in approval. "Not bad."
[19:29] * Rei-chan examines Natsume's chi for a moment and how she focuses it into the two weapons. "That is impressive," she agrees.
[19:30] * Natsume aims for a nearby tree and throws one of the kunai with a flick of her wrist.
[19:30] <Natsume> roll 2d6
[19:30] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[19:31] <Usagi-chan> The knife embeds itself into the tree's trunk up to the hilt noiselessly.
[19:31] <Rei-chan> Frowning at that, Rei gives Natsume a stern look. "You don't have to injure a tree just to show off."
[19:33] <Natsume> "Oh... well... I usually use the trees and rocks as target practice," Natsume explains. "I didn't really think that I was... injuring them..."
[19:34] <Usagi-chan> "Go easy on her, Rei-chan," Usagi admonishes. "She didn't mean anything by it."
[19:34] * Rei-chan shakes her head. "If Tellu was here she'd pitch a fit over this. Trees and plants are living things, too. You should respect them."
[19:36] <Natsume> "I see, I apologize, I'll try to use just the rocks from now on," Natsume says, not really understanding, but complying anyway. "Uhh... if I might ask... who is Tellu?"
[19:36] <Usagi-chan> "She's a friend of ours at Mugen," Usagi explains. "She really loves all kinds of plants - you should see her greenhouses sometime."
[19:37] <Rei-chan> "She works at Hikawa as well, recently. The place looks so much more alive since she started, too," Rei adds, smiling a bit there.
[19:39] <Natsume> "Ah, I'd like that," Natsume says about the greenhouse. "Hikawa... isn't the name of the Shinto shrine near here?"
[19:39] * Rei-chan nods. "It's where I live."
[19:40] <Natsume> "You live in a shrine?" Natsume says, surprised. "Are you a priestess?"
[19:42] <Rei-chan> "I'm too young to be a priestess," Rei says, smiling as she shakes her head. "I'm just a miko - my Grandpa's the priest."
[19:44] <Natsume> "Oh, well, its still amazing. I've never met a miko before," Natsume says.
[19:45] <Rei-chan> "Haven't you ever visited a Shrine?" Rei asks, it now her turn to be surprised.
[19:47] <Natsume> "Eheh, not really," Natsume says, feeling a bit embarrased. "My grandfather has I think, but I've never gone with him."
[19:48] <Rei-chan> "Not even at new year?" Rei asks pointlessly, before shrugging it off. "Oh, well. Shinto isn't for everyone," she concedes, letting it drop.
[19:49] * Usagi-chan just smiles. "The only time I ever used to visit a shrine was at New Year's myself, before I met Rei," Usagi says.
[19:52] <Natsume> "How long have you two known each other?"
[19:53] * Usagi-chan looks over at Rei, thinking for a minute. "A bit over a year now," she says.
[19:54] * Rei-chan smirks a bit, but remains silent. 'Depends whether you just count this life or not.'
[19:55] * Usagi-chan tries hard not to giggle at that. 'True... funny when you put it that way.'
[19:55] <Natsume> "Do you know magic as well, Hino-san?"
[19:56] <Rei-chan> "Oh, I know a trick or two," Rei demurs. "I'm not on Usagi's level, though."
[19:57] * Usagi-chan snorts. "She's better than I am in some areas," Usagi protests. "Not with actual spells or anything, but she's very good at what she CAN do."
[20:00] <Rei-chan> "Growing up in a Shrine can teach you a few things," Rei agrees, nodding.
[20:01] <Natsume> "By what my grandfather has told me, true Shintoists are able to are able to commune with nature spirits," Natsume says. "Is that what you do?"
[20:05] <Rei-chan> "Among other things," Rei nods. "I have a special rapport with the Kami of Hikawa, but I can open myself to others and gain their assistance."
[20:07] <Natsume> "Ah, I see now why you were so upset when I harmed the tree," Natsume says. "I apologize again."
[20:08] <Usagi-chan> "How's your sword coming along?" Usagi asks, deciding to move on. "Still been working on that?"
[20:09] <Natsume> "Ah, yes." Natsume holds her right hand out and forms the mystic katana, seemingly without any effort at all.
[20:11] * Usagi-chan studies the energy weapon. "Looks really good," she says with a smile. "It looks a lot better now than the last time I saw it - you look like you're more relaxed about using it now, too."
[20:12] <Natsume> "Yes, now I don't even to think about it really," she says. "It just happens on reflex now."
[20:12] <Rei-chan> "That's a fine weapon," Rei agrees, giving it a critical eye.
[20:13] <Usagi-chan> "I can tell - the energy flows look like they're almost completely natural now - that's definitely a good thing." Usagi smiles at that. "Any new tricks I HAVEN'T seen yet?"
[20:13] <Natsume> "I've also been working on a new form," Natsume mentions
[20:14] <Usagi-chan> "Let's have a look at it then." Usagi nods.
[20:14] <Natsume> "Since I have the katana for close range, and the kunai for long range, I decided to try and work on a weapon for in between,"
[20:16] <Rei-chan> "Naginata?" Rei guesses from the theme of Natsume's listed weapons.
[20:18] <Natsume> "Not quite, though I have tried that form before," Natsume answers. "I might not succeed, since what I have in mind is pretty complex..."
[20:18] <Usagi-chan> "Have you done it before, or will this be your first time?" Usagi asks, now curious.
[20:19] <Natsume> "I tried yesterday, though I had difficulty keeping the image in my mind," she admits. "I meant most of last night studying the weapon in detail."
[20:20] * Natsume relaxes again, and tries to form a kusari-gama.
[20:21] <Natsume> roll 2d6+2
[20:21] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6+2 and gets 7."
[20:23] * Natsume forms a hand held sickle attached to a small weight by a chain.
[20:23] <Usagi-chan> The weapon appears in Natsume's hand, the long chain with its attached weight hanging motionless from the base of the handle.
[20:24] <Natsume> "Hah, it worked!" Natsume says in triumph.
[20:25] * Rei-chan blinks. "Um... isn't the use of that kind of weapon based on using its inertia as you swing it around a lot?"
[20:25] <Usagi-chan> OOC: Make another soul check, +1.
[20:26] <Natsume> roll 2d6+1
[20:26] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6+1 and gets 8."
[20:27] <Natsume> "Mm, something like that," Natsume says. "It's useful for trapping an enemy's weapon, or against large groups of opponents."
[20:28] <Rei-chan> "Isn't a weapon made of chi weightless?" Rei goes on. "They don't tend to follow the usual laws of physics."
[20:29] <Usagi-chan> "Yes and no," Usagi says, frowning a bit. "It basically follows what you want it to do, as long as you can maintain control over the energy - so if you want it to act like a real weapon, it will."
[20:29] <Natsume> "Whenever I create a weapon, I try to give it a semblance of weight."
[20:30] * Rei-chan shrugs. "You know best."
[20:30] * Usagi-chan still looks rather unhappy. "You're just BARELY managing to keep that thing here, Natsume. Are you sure you want to stick with it? It doesn't look like it'll be easy to use at all."
[20:32] <Natsume> "Yes, this is far more difficult to maintain than I thought it would be," Natsume says, only now noticing the beads of sweat forming on her brow from the concentration.
[20:32] <Natsume> "It seems the more dynamic the weapon, the harder it is to control...."
[20:32] <Usagi-chan> "I'd let it go," Usagi advises. "It looks like it'll be more trouble than it's worth to me."
[20:33] <Rei-chan> "Really, if you want to use your chi against a group, there are far more efficient ways to do it," Rei points out. "Just shooting out a fan of it in an arc would be better than trying to control that as you swing it around."
[20:33] * Usagi-chan nods. "You've seen me use energy bolts - with a little practice, you could probably do something like that yourself."
[20:35] <Natsume> "Ohhh, I never thought of that," Natsume says, letting the chain weapon dissolve into nothing.
[20:36] <Natsume> "How DO you shoot out chi like that?"
[20:38] * Usagi-chan shrugs. "Well, for me I start off by concentrating my energy in my hand, then sort of 'pushing' it in the direction I want it to go - sort of like making a bubble and then popping it. It took me a lot of practice to master it, though."
[20:39] <Natsume> "Hmmm..."
[20:39] <Rei-chan> "If you can throw a chi kunai it shouldn't be too hard for you to project chi outwards," Rei points out. "It's not glued to your hand."
[20:40] <Usagi-chan> "I'd really want you to be careful though. The first time I ever tried it, I, uh, kind of did a lot more damage than I expected." Usagi blushes a bit at that.
[22:01] * Natsume stares down at her hand and thinks to herself. 'Focus your chi into your hand....'
[22:05] * Usagi-chan and Rei both watch Natsume with some interest.
[22:05] * Natsume decides to try and focus on her index finger instead, guessing it might be easier to focus on a smaller area.
[22:05] * Natsume tends to feel her chi as a kind of warmth constantly surrounding her body. So she imagines, as best she can, a little bit of that 'warmth' moving to the tip of her index finger.
[22:06] <Usagi-chan> The sensation flows through Natsume's body, the tip of her finger indeed growing a bit warmer as she concentrates.
[22:08] <Natsume> "How do I know when I've gathered enough chi?" Natsume asks, still focusing on moving her energy.
[22:09] <Usagi-chan> "It's not really something I can explain," Usagi says apologetically. "Just let it build up until you think you have enough, then release it - you'll have to find the right balance for yourself."
[22:10] * Natsume concentrates until her finger begins to feel hot rather than just warm.....
[22:11] <Usagi-chan> It doesn't take long at all. If you keep this up much longer, you're going to get a blister, you think.
[22:12] <Natsume> 'I'm thinking this should be enough...' Natsume thinks to herself.
[22:12] * Usagi-chan simply waits, focused on Natsume's hand.
[22:12] <Natsume> "Now I just... project it outward you said?" Natsume asks for confirmation
[22:13] * Natsume aims at the lake, hoping Rei won't take offense to her attacking the water... or something...
[22:14] <Usagi-chan> "Pretty much, yeah. Don't really make any form, just let it go." Usagi confirms.
[22:14] <Natsume> 'Just...let it go....' she thinks.
[22:15] * Natsume , going by how she's holding her hand, imagines she's holding a gun...
[22:15] <Natsume> "Bang," she whispers, and imagines herself pulling the trigger...
[22:15] <Natsume> roll 2d6+2
[22:15] * Musk-bot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6+2 and gets 6."
[22:17] <Usagi-chan> A thin beam of energy issues from the tip of Natsume's finger, lancing out and disappearing into the lake in the space of a split second! A moment or two later, a large bubble bursts on the surface of the water.
[22:18] * Natsume stands there, frozen in shock....
[22:18] <Natsume> "W.... was that it?" she finally asks. "Did I just shoot my chi out?"
[22:18] * Rei-chan beams at Natsume. "Way to go, Natsume!" Rei smirks.
[22:19] <Usagi-chan> "That was it... a little small for an energy bolt, but you've got the right idea." Usagi confirms.
[22:20] <Natsume> "Hah! Amazing," Natsume says, beaming with joy. "That was much easier than making a kunai and throwing it."
[22:21] <Usagi-chan> Rei starts rather suddenly, glancing down at her watch. "Crap! I forgot, I was supposed to be helping Hotaru with the charms stand this afternoon," she says with a grimace. "I'll have to catch you guys later. Was nice meeting you, Natsume," she says, waving as she heads off into the park.
[22:21] <Natsume> "Ah, nice meeting you too, Hino-san,"
[22:22] <Usagi-chan> "See you later, Rei-chan!" Usagi calls after the rapidly disappearing miko.
[22:23] * Usagi-chan turns to Natsume. "Not bad at all for a first try," she says with a smile. "I doubt you'd do much damage with something like that, but it's at least a start."
[22:24] <Natsume> "Thanks," she says, blushing.
[22:25] * Usagi-chan grins, taking a seat on the grass with a grunt. "Geez, I'm tired. Long day today."
[22:25] <Natsume> "Oh? What were you up to?"
[22:27] <Usagi-chan> "Mostly just catching up at school, still. We took last week off to make up for the vacation we missed," Usagi explains. "The senshi spent most of our summer break 'working', so we took it easy last week instead."
[22:32] <Natsume> "Ahhh."
[22:32] <Usagi-chan> "Couldn't get out of our schoolwork, though, so we've been having to work double time this week to make it all up," Usagi grumbles. "But at least the vacation was worth it."
[22:35] <Natsume> "And you go to Mugen Gakuen right?" Natsume aks. "I can't imagine the kind of workload you get stuck with there."
[22:36] <Usagi-chan> "More than I'd like," Usagi grumbles. "It's tough, but I can usually manage with a little help. It's just been a busy week all around - even besides homework, there are a couple of other things that I've been trying to get going again, and that's been kind of bumpy."
[22:37] <Natsume> "What kind of things?"
[22:38] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit secretively. "Things you probably wouldn't believe, to tell you the truth. Even knowing who I am, you probably wouldn't believe me."
[22:42] <Natsume> "Oh? Try me."
[22:43] * Usagi-chan grins. "All right, I spent most of last weekend walking around the Moon."
[22:46] <Natsume> "..." Natsume just stares at the other girl flatly. "You're right, I don't believe you."
[22:47] <Usagi-chan> "Told you so," Usagi replies with a grin. "Anyway, it's been a busy week - but at least I don't have to worry about Chibi Usa anymore."
[22:50] <Natsume> "How is she by the way?" she asks.
[22:52] <Usagi-chan> "She's... safe," Usagi says with a smile. "She's been through a lot in the past couple of weeks, but I think she might finally be out of danger once and for all. We managed to take care of the man who was after her, although it was probably the toughest fight I've ever been in." The blonde glances down at her hands at that.
[22:54] <Natsume> "Ah, yes, that Zirae person," Natsume recalls. "I never had any doubt you would succeed eventually."
[22:55] <Usagi-chan> "We almost didn't," Usagi says quietly, looking down at her lap. "We managed to do it, but it's a miracle Chibi Usa is still with us after that fight."
[22:57] <Natsume> "What... happened?" Natsume asks, noting Usagi's suddenly downcast eyes.
[22:59] <Usagi-chan> "She sacrificed herself to give us a chance to beat Zirae," Usagi says, her eyes shining with unshed tears. "If it hadn't been for that, he would have killed all of us - probably gone on to destroy the entire world. But after he was dead, there was some kind of miracle - I don't understand how, but Chibi Usa was brought back to me, when she should have been dead."
[23:05] * Natsume is silent, absorbing everything that was just told to her.
[23:06] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit. "She's back with us and safe now, that's all that matters as far as I'm concerned," she says with a smile. "And there's no one left to try to hurt her again."
[23:07] <Natsume> "Thats good to know," she agrees. "She's such an amazing girl, I find it hard to believe she's only a child."
[23:09] <Usagi-chan> "I know... it just amazes me how much she's been through in her life, but she's still managed to get through it all pretty well so far." Usagi smiles. "But now you know why we went on vacation - with Zirae gone, we could finally afford to."
[23:11] <Natsume> "Indeed," Natsume says with a nod.
[23:12] <Usagi-chan> "What about you? Anything interesting happen to you since the last time I saw you?"
[23:12] <Natsume> "Oh, well, not really," Natsume says. "Practicing, trying to spend more time with Kurumi..."
[23:13] <Usagi-chan> "Kurumi's your sister, right?" Usagi says after a moment.
[23:14] <Natsume> "Yes, my younger sister," she confirms. "She's a year younger than me."
[23:14] <Usagi-chan> "That's cool," Usagi says with a smile. "It has to beat having a bratty little brother, that's for sure."
[23:16] * Natsume laughs a bit at that. "I'm able to talk to her about anything," Natsume says, before sobering a bit. "Though recently I've had to keep a lot of things from her, something I don't enjoy doing."
[23:17] <Usagi-chan> "About me, you mean?" Usagi says, her expression faltering a bit. "I'm sorry about that."
[23:18] <Natsume> "Oh, its not your fault, really," she assures her. "I'm sure I'll be able to tell her everything in time."
[23:21] <Natsume> "Though I really wish she could come with me, she's very adept at kyudo, so she knows alot about concentration and visualization," Natsume says. "Unfortunately she doesn't seem to have much interest."
[23:22] * Natsume laughs a bit. "I think its because she's alot more grounded in reality than I ever was."
[23:23] <Usagi-chan> "Oh well," Usagi says with a shrug. "I guess it's not for everyone," she grins. "Although I'm not sure what I could teach her - I'm really just making most of this stuff up as I go along," she admits with an embarrassed grin.
[23:27] <Natsume> "Really? I never noticed."
[23:29] * Usagi-chan giggles. "You're too kind, really. But I like getting to hang out with you - I don't spend a lot of time with many people outside of the other senshi, so getting to talk to you is a nice change of pace," the blonde says.
[23:31] <Natsume> "Well, I don't get to spend much time talking to Sailor Senshi either," she says, smiling. "So I guess its a nice change of pace for me as well."
[23:33] * Usagi-chan grins at that. "I guess so, it's not something most people can say they've done," she agrees, stretching a bit. "I HAVE been curious about one thing, though - how much do you know about the senshi from following them on your own?"
[23:35] <Natsume> "Eheh, well, not much admittedly," she says. "Most of what I knew came from what little tidbits appear on the news and the internet fansites."
[23:37] <Usagi-chan> "Actually, that's the kind of stuff I mean," Usagi replies. "I don't think any of us have actually looked at what's out there about us, except when we actually make the news."
[23:40] <Natsume> "Hm, well, most of the fansites don't really have anything substantial, just amusing gossip mainly," she says. "How old you might be, what guys you like, some people even write stories about you."
[23:41] <Usagi-chan> "Really? There are stories about us out there? What kinds of stuff do they write?" Usagi seems rather surprised.
[23:44] <Natsume> "Most of them are just corny romances about the author meeting their favorite senshi," Natsume recalls. "Some of them are articles by pseudo-intellectuals about things like how your powers work, why your skirts are so short, military applications for high heeled boots, things like that."
[23:46] <Natsume> "I've seen one or two that try to show the senshi in their daily lives," Natsume continues. "Those seem to be somewhat imaginative."
[23:46] * Usagi-chan laughs. "You'd have to talk to Mars about the high heels, she's the only one that really has to fight in heels. The short skirts... well, I don't know if they were INTENDED that way, but they're really easy to move around in during a fight, which is handy. And WE don't even understand how all of our powers work."
[23:47] * Usagi-chan seems rather intrigued by the second notion, though. "What do they think our daily lives are like, then?"
[23:55] <Natsume> "It depends really, some people you're j-pop stars in disguise, other people think you might be priestesses," she explains. "Hah, there was one where the author portrayed it as a kind of sitcom with all of you being college students living in the same apartment."
[23:57] <Usagi-chan> The mention of J-pop stars causes Usagi to become oddly pensive, although she chuckles briefly at the other two ideas.
[23:59] <Natsume> "Of course there's your typical adolescent male writer who believes you're all sex crazed lesbians," she recalls. "But those tend to be few and far between."
[00:00] <Usagi-chan> "Good," Usagi says, blushing a bit. "We've had enough problems with the doujinshi, frankly."
[00:02] <Natsume> "Sailor Mercury is the most popular senshi, I can't really explain why," Natsume says with a shrug. "I still prefer Jupiter myself, not to say you're not a close second yourself of course."
[00:04] * Usagi-chan smiles. "Mercury's actually pretty shy in real life," she says with a smile. "She'd probably be completely shocked to hear that if you told her. And I'm not really surprised that I'm not too high on the list - the others are a lot better at fighting than I am, for sure."
[00:06] <Natsume> "Other than the doujinshi, which you seem to already have experience with, theres not much else I can say."
[00:07] * Usagi-chan nods glumly. "We actually ran into those fairly early on - Venus was about ready to go raid the shops to get rid of them," Usagi says with a wry smile, shaking her head. "Never happened, of course, but it was a tempting thought."
[00:08] <Natsume> "Ah, yes, some of them can be rather disturbing," she says. "I guess it's just some people's way of showing their adoration for you."
[00:10] <Usagi-chan> "Really strange way of showing it," Usagi grumbles. "Some of the amateur stuff I've seen isn't bad, though - if you avoid the hentai stuff, there are actually some kind of fun stories out there about us." She smiles a bit at that.
[00:16] <Natsume> "Which ones have you seen?"
[00:18] <Usagi-chan> "Well, actually my little brother drew one that I was half tempted to take to a publisher - and before he knew who I was, too." She grins. "He's got the only doujinshi in the world autographed by all the senshi - I had everyone sign it for him last year as a Christmas present. There are a few other cute stories out there - Mars is a really avid manga collector, so she's seen quite a few of them."
[00:20] <Natsume> "Your brother must be very talented," she says. "I tried once, but stopped after I made Kurumi fall down laughing at how horrible it was."
[00:21] * Natsume blushes a bit in embarrasment. "I'm not too good at art, obviously."
[00:21] * Usagi-chan giggles. "He's better than I am at it, that's for sure. I'm not really very good at much of anything other than magic, it seems like." She scratches the back of her head in embarrassment at that.
[00:23] <Natsume> "Oh I'm sure you're just being humble," Natsume says. "I'm sure you're very talented at other things. You did get into Mugen Gakuen after all."
[00:26] * Usagi-chan snorts. "I never would have passed the exams," Usagi replies. "Professor Tomoe's daughter was kidnapped by one of our enemies, and as a reward for our helping to get her back he gave most of us scholarships to Mugen. I can do all right with the work there, but I'm hardly outstanding at it. I'm not much of a cook, and I can't draw - but I've actually picked up magic fairly easily, where none of the other girls have managed it."
[00:29] <Natsume> "Well, even then, being skilled at magic is no small thing," Natsume reminds her. "Being able to mold energy like you do must take amazing imagination."
[00:30] <Usagi-chan> "It might not seem like it, but that's not really something I consider magic," Usagi replies. "It's almost like a skill - just about all of the senshi can do that to some degree with their own elements. By magic, I mean more like casting actual spells and stuff, real old-fashioned magic."
[00:31] <Natsume> "Oh, like that healing spell you used the first time we met?"
[00:32] * Usagi-chan nods. "Things like that, yeah. I've really found it to be a lot more interesting than I ever expected it to be - but it seems like no one else can learn to do things the same way I can, at least not yet." The blonde sighs a bit at that.
[00:37] <Natsume> "You shouldn't be ashamed of such talent," she smiles. "Even though its not something you can show off publically, its still something that sets you apart from everyone else."
[00:38] <Natsume> "And the people who do know recognize how gifted you are," she says. "Which is really all that matters."
[00:38] <Usagi-chan> "I guess so,"  Usagi says with a small smile. "It can be kind of fun to play around with too." She grins, her lips moving silently for a minute - although there's no visible effect that Natsume can see.
[00:41] <Natsume> "What... did you do?"
[00:45] * Usagi-chan grins. "Turn around slowly - but try not to jump."
[00:46] * Natsume does so...
[00:47] <Usagi-chan> Standing behind the swordswoman is a very, VERY tall redhead. A slight sneer on her part reveals elongated canines, and a pair of bony spikes protrude from her shoulder blades. A globe of dark crystal is suspended just above a rod held in front of her.
[00:50] * Natsume nearly jumps back a mile even though she is trying not to.
[00:50] <Natsume> "What... is it?" she asks apprehensively.
[00:51] <Usagi-chan> "That would be Queen Beryl, the leader of the first enemies we fought last year," Usagi says with a grim smile. "Just an illusion, though - the real Queen Beryl's been dead for months now."
[00:53] <Natsume> "Ah, good," she sighs, before catching herself. "I mean, I wish was around back then, she would've felt the full wrath of my noble blade!"
[00:54] * Usagi-chan giggles. "Funny you should mention that - she died to a pair of sword strikes, actually." With a wave of her hand, the illusion wavers and disappears. "Right through the head."
[00:55] <Natsume> "Oh? Who delivered the final blow?"
[00:56] <Usagi-chan> "Sailor Mars did," Usagi replies. "I knocked down a pretty powerful energy shield she was using, then Mars finished her off."
[00:56] <Natsume> "She is a swordswoman as well?" she asks, intrigued.
[00:57] <Usagi-chan> "Not a trained one like you are, but she uses a sword from time to time, yes," Usagi agrees.
[22:45] <Natsume> "Sounds like it was a hard fought battle."
[22:47] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit. "It definitely was that," the blonde replies. "I can't tell you how glad I am that we won that one though."
[22:49] <Natsume> "Why are you showing me this?" Natsume asks. "You said magic was a fun thing to play with, but I'm sure there's more to it than that."
[22:51] <Usagi-chan> "Thought you might like to understand a bit more about what it is the senshi have run up against," Usagi responds. "And this is easier than describing it all to you."
[22:52] <Natsume> "Are all your enemies as ugly as she is?" Natsume wonders, still staring at where the... hologram? was.
[22:54] <Usagi-chan> "Some have been," Usagi makes a face at that. "Most youma or cardians were worse-looking than she was. Not all of them are ugly, though. Ann was an enemy of ours once, and I wouldn't call HER ugly."
[22:57] <Natsume> "Ah, yes, I think Ann mentioned that she used to an opponent of yours," Natsume remembers. "Knowing her, I'm not surprised...."
[22:59] * Usagi-chan smiles wryly. "She and her brother were draining people's energy because they thought it would help them survive. We managed to finally track them down and figure out what was REALLY going on, and they've been living peacefully ever since."
[23:05] <Natsume> "That's good to hear," Natsume says. "I'd much prefer her as a friend to an enemy."
[23:05] <Natsume> "I wish I'd thought the same when we first met," Natsume says with a laugh.
[23:09] * Usagi-chan gives Natsume a curious look. "What was it that first tipped you off that she was unusual, anyway? Ann never said, just that you thought she was a youkai or something."
[23:10] <Natsume> "I happened to catch her using her powers," Natsume explained. "Making things appear and disappear, levitating herself, making HERSELF appear and disappear."
[23:11] * Usagi-chan giggles. "I guess that would do it," she agrees. "I just thought it was weird since you don't seem to be able to sense things like that yourself - unless I missed something?"
[23:14] <Natsume> "Hm, I'm sure it was more luck than anything else," Natsume shrugs. "Good luck, since I've gotten to meet so many nice people because of it. Ann included... as shocking as that is."
[23:17] * Usagi-chan smiles. "She's not so bad once you get to know her - she just tends to seem a bit harsh at first. But I'm glad I've gotten to know you too - it's been nice to get to know someone new WITHOUT having to fight them first," she says with a grin.
[23:20] <Natsume> "I'm sure," she laughs. "Just how many enemies have become your allies?"
[23:22] <Usagi-chan> "Oh, good lord - you're going to make me count," Usagi says, making a face as she begins to tick off numbers on her fingers. "Nine, I think, that we're still in contact with anyway."
[23:24] <Natsume> "You must have some sort of magic touch," she says. "To make friends of enemies is a cherished gift, or so my grandfather says at times."
[23:27] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit at that. "I definitely look at all of them as a wonderful gift - I owe a lot of things to all of them. They help me out a lot."
[23:33] * Natsume stares back at the lake. "I wonder if I can make more than just bubbles..." Natsume says to herself.
[23:34] <Usagi-chan> "Hmm?" Usagi gives the other girl a curious look.
[23:35] * Natsume doesn't answer, and instead starting focusing her into her finger like the first time.
[23:37] * Usagi-chan simply watches, deciding not to disturb the other girl's concentration as she tries out her new technique once again.
[23:38] * Natsume keeps focusing, even after her fingers starts feeling hot like the first time...
[23:39] <Usagi-chan> "Be careful," Usagi murmurs.
[23:40] * Natsume's finger feels like it's on fire, but keeps charging anyway...
[23:42] <Natsume> 'I need to know how far I can take it,' she thinks to herself, while gnashing her teeth.
[23:42] <Usagi-chan> "Natsume..." Usagi says, beginning to get a bit worried. "Don't try to overdo it too much."
[23:45] * Natsume reaches her limit, aims at the lake, and prepares to fire...
[23:47] <Natsume> roll 2d6+4
[23:47] * Hatbot --> "Natsume rolls 2d6+4 and gets 10."
[23:47] <Usagi-chan> The beam lances out from Natsume's hand as before, a thin stream - but as it does so, it feels like someone's driven a red-hot needle right into her fingertip.
[23:49] * Natsume manages to bite back a scream, but still cringes at the horrible feeling.
[23:50] * Usagi-chan winces, having seen just what happened in a bit more detail than she'd like. "Oh my god, are you all right?" She quickly moves to Natsume's side. "Let me see it."
[23:54] <Natsume> "I... tried... to see how far I could go," Natsume says through the biting pain. "It feels like I got more than I bargained for."
[23:56] * Natsume shows it to Usagi once it stops twitching quite so much...
[23:57] * Usagi-chan takes Natsume's hand, looking at the other girl's injured finger. The bolt did quite a bit of damage, carving a deep series of gashes in Natsume's fingertip. Ignoring the blood, Usagi wraps her hands around the other girl's finger, beginning to chant her healing spell.
[00:01] * Natsume notes the pain fading as she chants the familiar spell...
[00:06] * Usagi-chan shakes her head as she removes her hands. "Don't try to overdo it - you can hurt yourself worse than that if you're not careful," Usagi says. "That's why if you saw me do it before, I fire them out of my palms - I can brace some of the shock better that way than just with a fingertip. You could break a finger if you're not careful doing it that way."
[00:08] <Natsume> "I see," she says, sighing in relief. Usagi's healing spell never ceases to amaze.
[00:09] <Usagi-chan> "I know you want to learn as much as you can, but don't push too hard," the blonde scolds. "Hurting yourself isn't going to make you learn any faster."
[00:12] <Natsume> "Hm, I guess," she says, staring at the now healed finger. "I guess I'm too used to pain and training going hand in hand."
[00:14] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "Pain is nature's way of telling you that something's wrong," she counters. "There ARE times when you have to grit your teeth and go on, but not always."
[00:20] <Natsume> "So when will I be able to learn more complex applications, you think?"
[00:21] <Usagi-chan> "It's hard to say," Usagi replies. "I'd work on getting the small stuff down first, before you try to get creative with it. Make sure you know what you're doing, that way you're less likely to hurt yourself."
[00:23] <Natsume> "Just how much small stuff is there?" Natsume wonders.
[00:25] * Usagi-chan sighs. "Seems like I find more every day," she mutters. "For now, if you really want to push that technique forward I'd practice with small energy bolts like the first one you used today - just get a handle on keeping it under control and doing what you want first."
[00:28] <Natsume> "Hm, yes I think I could get in alot of practice with this," Natsume says. "I'm sure it'll surprise the heck out of grandfather."
[00:28] <Usagi-chan> "Just be careful about using it on a person," Usagi warns. "Even with as small as that was, it'll pack one heck of a punch."
[00:37] <Natsume> "I see..."
[00:40] <Usagi-chan> "Just promise me you won't try to overdo it like that again, all right?" Usagi asks.
[00:41] <Natsume> "Alright, I promise," she says, smiling a little.
[00:42] * Usagi-chan relaxes a bit. "Good," she says, smiling herself. "Anyway, I'd probably better not keep you - this was kind of a spur of the moment thing."
[00:46] <Natsume> "I still appreciate it nonetheless," she says. "I've learned a lot today."
[00:51] * Usagi-chan nods. "Give me a call if you need help with anything else, all right? the blonde says. "I'd better get going now before Chibi Usa wonders what happened to me."

[09:19] <Anastasia> ---
[09:25] <Rei-chan> After school lets out one pleasant mid-September day, Rei finds herself in the Witches office waiting for Hotaru to come out of her own last class so the two of them can head over to Hikawa for some mikoing and working on their spiritual talents. The office is currently empty except for the raven-haired girl, leaning against the side of her desk and drumming her fingers as she waits.
[09:31] <Ami-chan> A few moments later, Ami enters the office, her customary armload of books unusually light on this occasion, and at least half of the small pile are definitely not textbooks. She looks up in surprise as she enters, and smiles at Rei, not having expected to find anyone else here. She frees up an arm and waves to Rei as she makes her way to the desk. "Hi." she smiles faintly. "Waiting for Usagi?"
[09:32] <Rei-chan> "Hey, Ami-chan," Rei gives a small wave in reply. "Usagi already went home, actually. Just waiting on Hotaru, right now."
[09:36] * Ami-chan sets her books down, blinking. "Oh... that's right, I'd heard she was helping out at the shrine." Ami settles down in the chair. "How is she doing?"
[09:38] <Rei-chan> "She's been at it for months, now, Ami," Rei points out, a bit surprised at that one managing to get past the blue-haired girl. "She's doing really well, though. She's a hard worker and has a ton of spiritual potential," the miko nods proudly at that.
[09:50] <Anastasia> On this, the door to the office opens to reveal Hotaru. Coming in wearing her Mugen uniform and carrying a few books herself, "Hi, Rei-chan, Ami-chan," she says, walking over to Rei's desk and putting the books down.
[09:51] <Rei-chan> "Hi, Hotaru-chan. How was your day?" Rei asks, smiling at the younger girl.
[09:51] * Ami-chan blushes, nodding a little at yet another detail of her friends' personal lives getting mostly lost. She smiles a little sheepishly. "I haven't been... in touch as much as I should have been." she says regretfully, then looks thoughtful. She opens her mouth to add to that when Hotaru comes in, and smiles and waves at the younger girl.
[09:53] * Rei-chan gives Ami an understanding look, thinking of her situation with Makoto in that other world. "We all have our distractions," she offers diplomatically.
[09:53] <Anastasia> "Long, sister," she smiles nonetheless, "I had a test in Math class."
[09:54] <Rei-chan> "Think you did well?" Rei asks, knowing that if Hotaru didn't do well then it probably means they'll need to cut back the mikoing in favour of studying schoolwork.
[09:56] * Ami-chan smiles faintly, nodding as she watches the two 'sisters'. 'I really am falling out of touch.' she sighs inwardly, and immediately tries to squelch the depressing thought.
[09:57] <Anastasia> "I passed... Dad helped me study," Hotaru nods, heading over to the couch to sit. "Maybe a high B?"
[09:58] * Rei-chan nods approvingly, knowing that a high B at Mugen is easily worth an A anywhere else. "So, what are you up to right now, Ami?" she asks the blue-haired girl, stealing a glance at her books.
[10:03] <Ami-chan> Roughly half the books in Ami's small pile are textbooks, with the other half esoteric looking books on the nature of spirit and the soul, most likely borrowed from the witches, or Professor Tomoe himself. At the bottom of the pile an a notebook with a few loose leaves, one sticking out enough to make out a Lunarian reference. "Research." Ami admits, a little sheepishly. "I'd meant to ask you about it as well."
[10:04] <Rei-chan> "Oh?" Rei perks up, noting the topics on the spiritual books.
[10:08] * Ami-chan nods, turning to the pile. "I've... been trying to improve my senshi abilities." she begins, an undercurrent of dissastifaction in her voice. "But... physical training has't helped much. I've been exploring an alternative solution but... I really don't know much about this." she says in a chagrined tone, holding up one of the books. "Since it is more your field, I was hoping you could help me discover what I'm lacking..."
[10:10] <Rei-chan> "Oh," Rei repeats, briefly glancing at Hotaru before refocusing on Ami. "Like improving your control over ice and water?" she clarifies.
[10:12] * Ami-chan nods. "That's part of it." she ventures. "I think. But my general control and focus in senshi form is... not particularly impressive." she sighs.
[10:13] <Anastasia> Hotaru watches quietly, not really wanting to say anything since big sis is handling this matter.
[10:15] * Rei-chan blinks. "I wouldn't say that. I remember you were the first of us to be able to use your powers untransformed. And your attacks are easily as powerful as mine." Shrugging, she goes on, "But if you want to improve your focus, I might be able to help you." She gives Ami a penetrating look, "There's no quick fix, though. I've been working with Hotaru for months and she still has a long road ahead of her, even with all the progress she's made."
[10:19] <Anastasia> Hotaru DOES speak up at that. "It's a lot of work," she admits, "But Rei-chan is a good teacher, Ami."
[10:23] <Ami-chan> "I'm aware that it's hard work." Ami agrees, some discouragement showing. "I have been taking combat training for some time now, but it doesn't seem to help as much as I'd hoped." she turns at Hotaru's comment, then smiles slightly, and glances at Rei. "I'd appreciate your help, if you think I can be taught."
[10:27] <Rei-chan> 'Combat training?' Rei thinks, puzzled. Filing it away for later, she speaks up, "I'm happy to help you, Ami-chan, of course. It's the least I can do after you helped me with my studies so much last year."
[10:30] * Ami-chan smiles, a little embarrassed, but nods gratefully, then pauses as a thought seems to occur to her. "Um... should we arrange a time?" she asks uncertainly. "If you're already working with Hotaru-chan..."
[10:33] <Rei-chan> "I can probably work with both of you at once, really," Rei replies. "In any case, Hotaru and I will just be doing chores at the Shrine for the next hour or so, which probably doesn't interest you. But after that I'll be teaching her a few things and if you want to come along we can maybe get you started today as well?"
[10:36] * Ami-chan smiles slowly, nodding. "Sure." she agrees. "I'll finish my homework here, and then come over, if that's all right?" she asks, glancing at Hotaru's reaction to the arrangement as well.
[10:36] <Anastasia> Hotaru smiles at that to Rei, then to Ami. "Some company with Rei-chan would be nice... and maybe you could cook dinner for us, Ami-chan?" Hotaru asks, smiling hopefully.
[10:37] * Rei-chan winces. "Nothing wrong with instant curry..." she mumbles defensively.
[10:38] <Anastasia> "For months, Rei-chan," Hotaru says, deflating and sighing. "You'll cook dinner, right, Ami-chan?" she turns back to the blue haired girl. "Something that's not curry?"
[10:38] * Ami-chan blushes a little, giggling at that. "I could try." she agrees. "I'm not anything special as a cook, but it's the least I can do."
[10:39] <Rei-chan> Sighing, "Maybe I should ask someone for cooking lessons, I guess..." Rei admits. Shaking it off, she grabs her bookbag, "We'll see you in a little bit, then, Ami-chan," she waves, starting for the door.
[10:39] <Anastasia> Perking up a bit at that, "Thank you, Ami-chan," the girl replies, glancing now at her sister. "Sorry, Rei-chan."
[10:39] <Rei-chan> "It's alright," Rei sighs. "I know."
[10:40] * Ami-chan waves as she watches the pair leave, feeling considerably more upbeat.
[10:40] <Anastasia> "Maybe you could take a cooking class next semester," Hotaru suggests as you two walk out. "Or Home Economics?"
[10:40] <Rei-chan> "Okay, okay... I get it..." Rei whines.
[10:44] <Rei-chan> About an hour later, Rei bids farewell to the last visitors to the Shrine, heralding a quiet period as most people go home for dinner and such. As Hotaru puts away their brooms, Rei asks her Grandfather to keep an eye out for Ami before heading round to the meditation garden with her apprentice.
[10:48] <Anastasia> This doesn't take long - Ami joins you after perhaps ten more minutes, before you even get started in earnest...
[10:48] <Rei-chan> "Hi, Ami," Rei waves the other girl over, gesturing for her to sit on the ground with her and Hotaru.
[10:51] * Ami-chan smiles and waves back, quietly moving forward and settling herself on the ground to join them. "Hi." She greets softly, smiling at Hotaru as well, before turning her attention to Rei again. "I'm not late, am I?"
[10:54] * Rei-chan shakes her head. "We only just finished up with our chores a few minutes ago." Nodding to Hotaru, who is breathing easily with her eyes closed, seemingly unaware of their conversation, Rei goes on, "I've gotten Hotaru started on some deep meditation practice, so I can focus on you, now."
[10:55] * Ami-chan nods, and settles herself into an attentive posture, waiting for the raven haired miko to begin.
[10:58] <Rei-chan> "Okay," Rei nods herself. "You're interested in honing your senshi abilities, but we won't come directly to that for a while," she begins, in lecture-mode. "When we use our powers, we're basically trying to force our will on reality to make it do something it really shouldn't. Fireballs just don't burst out of thin air, after all," she smirks a bit at that.
[11:00] * Ami-chan smiles a little, nodding in agreement, but saying nothing, being accustomed to being taught this way, waiting for more.
[11:02] <Rei-chan> "Well," Rei goes on at Ami's nod, "What I'm going to start with is helping you to understand yourself." She puts a hand over her chest, "To see within your own soul. If you don't know yourself, you have no business trying to change the world. Understanding how you fit with the natural order makes it a lot easier to effect changes beyond simple brute force."
[11:04] * Ami-chan pauses at that, assimilating the statement before giving a tentative nod, once she thinks she's grasped what Rei means.
[11:07] <Rei-chan> "There's a lot more to it, but I'll explain as we go along rather than dumping it all on you right now. That's just a basic overview so you can understand why I'll be training you the way I do," Rei explains.
[11:08] <Ami-chan> "Alright." Ami nods in agreement, smiling a little to show she's following, so far.
[11:09] <Rei-chan> "Okay," Rei concludes her spiel, now asking a question. "How do you feel, Ami?"
[11:10] * Ami-chan blinks. "Nervous." she admits.
[11:13] * Rei-chan nods. "Can't be helped, but you'll have to overcome it. I'm not going to ask you to do anything stressful - exactly the opposite, really. But some people end up just getting even more stressed when they try to relax so completely in meditation." She smiles crookedly, "Believe me, I had troubles of my own when I first started this."
[11:14] * Ami-chan nods, relaxing a little and smiling back. "How did you overcome them?"
[11:17] <Rei-chan> "Practice, practice, and more practice," Rei admits. "There's no special trick or secret technique. You just have to keep at it and find what works for you. As you learn more about yourself, it becomes easier."
[11:18] <Rei-chan> "Take my sixth sense, for example. When I was ten I'd have to be in a deep meditatitive trance to sense the auras around me. Right now I can do that while focusing on several other things at once. It's all just a matter of experience and familiarity.""
[11:20] <Ami-chan> Ami actually brightens at that, nodding. "So as long as I commit myself to learning, barring something unfortunate, there's no reason I shouldn't eventually progress?"
[11:22] <Rei-chan> "Exactly," Rei nods, smiling. "Anyone can learn this. Some people have more natural aptitude, but that just makes it easier. It's still perfectly possible for anyone if they put the work in."
[11:27] * Ami-chan nods, returning the smile, nodding. "I'm glad." she says, encouraged by Rei's words, despite the long range nature of the project in front of her. She settles back, waiting for Rei to go on.
[11:30] <Rei-chan> "Okay. Enough talking and let's get started," Rei nods. "Simple meditation is just that - simple. I want you to close your eyes and regulate your breathing," Rei begins in a soothing tone, doing just that with her own breathing to give Ami an idea of what to aim for.
[11:33] * Ami-chan nods and closes her eyes, and pauses for a moment, trying to figure out how to manage a steady rate of breathing... and suddenly understands. Picturing herself in a swimming pool, she begin mimicing the breathing she uses while doing laps. 'In... Out... In... Out...'
[11:36] * Rei-chan watches Ami for a few minutes as she breathes rhythmically. "That's good," she says softly, "Now, turn your focus inwards... Not on your breathing, not on my voice. Just in. Ignore the rest of the world... Let it all flow right over you..."
[11:41] * Ami-chan frowns slightly, trying to figure out what Rei means, then forces herself to stop thinking, as she looks for a way to accomplish this.
[11:42] * Rei-chan notes the frown, but remains silent, waiting for Ami to either figure it out or ask.
[11:45] * Ami-chan bites her lip, but doesn't open her eyes. "Rei...?" She asks softly, still puzzling over it, "I don't understand how you can focus inward while ignoring everything."
[11:51] <Rei-chan> "That's the hurdle, isn't it?" Rei agrees, recalling a similar discussion with Hotaru several months back. Of course, the example she gave Hotaru to help her understand would probably fly right over Ami's head... "Hmm... how to explain it..." she ponders.
[11:51] <Rei-chan> "Don't actually focus on anything. That'll happen by itself. Just ignore all stimulus and clear your mind of thoughs. Don't try to block them - you'll just wind up focusing on the blocking. Just let it all drift over you."
[11:58] * Ami-chan nods and settles back on her breathing, keeping her eyes closed, looking for her rhythm again, and attempts to clear her mind, her expression slowly going blank as she tries to let heeself go, not even bothering to try to solve the problem before her... rather, letting the solution find her...
[11:59] * Rei-chan nods as Ami seems to be doing a bit better this time, keeping quiet and leaving her until she comes out of it by herself.
[12:08] <Ami-chan> Trying to maintain an unfocused viewpoint for the moment, Ami wonders briefly if she's somehow fallen asleep... but then relaxes her grip on that, feeling as though she's close... but then the feeling fades, and she opens her eyes slowly, a thoughtful expression on her face.
[12:08] * Rei-chan tilts her head at Ami as she opens her eyes. "Better, that time?"
[12:09] <Ami-chan> "I'm not sure." Ami smiles embarrassedly. "I don't think I actually got it right, but I have a vague feeling I was close..."
[12:11] <Rei-chan> "You did well for a first try," Rei offers encouragingly. "This is just the first step on the road, but it's an important one. Once you get this nailed the rest will flow naturally."
[12:14] * Ami-chan smiles, nodding. "I hope so." she agrees, hopeful, and a bit tentative. "My normal methods of approaching things may make it difficult..."
[12:15] <Rei-chan> "That is true," Rei concedes. "Trying to analyze everything makes it difficult to achieve the necessary state of mind we're looking for here."
[12:19] * Ami-chan nods slowly. "I'll keep trying." she smiles at Rei. "I appreciate this."
[12:21] <Anastasia> Finally stirring from her own meditative pursuits, Hotaru's eyes focus and open. "Sis," she asks, looking at said Rei and then Ami. "How did Ami-chan do?" she inquires further, smiling at Ami.
[12:25] <Rei-chan> "It's honestly no trouble," Rei smiles openly, glancing at stirring Hotaru. "She did well, Hotaru-chan. You remember how it wasn't so easy at first, right?"
[12:27] <Anastasia> Nodding, "It isn't easy at all at first," the darker girl assures Ami. "If Rei said you did fine, I'm sure you'll do great this, Ami-chan."
[12:29] * Ami-chan smiles at the young girl, nodding. "Rei-chan is a good teacher, like you said." she agrees. "Hopefully, I can progress as well as you have."
[12:32] <Rei-chan> "Well," Rei admits, "Hotaru's working here at the Shrine almost as much as I am. Unless you can find that much time yourself, you probably won't progress as quickly as she has. But there's no rush, and I'll be doing what I can to help you in specific areas you want to improve rather than the all-around Shinto training Hotaru does with me."
[12:34] * Ami-chan nods, smiling at Rei, this time. "Mm. I've no illusions about the speed I'll progress at." Ami assures Rei calmly. "It would be nice if it went quickly, but even if it doesn't, I'm prepared to keep at it until I can manage."
[12:35] <Rei-chan> "That's good," Rei agrees approvingly. "I know you, Ami-chan. You'll give this the serious work it needs to push yourself forward."
[12:36] <Anastasia> "That's good, Ami-chan," Hotaru seconds Rei. "It'll be nice to have more company, too," with a glance at Rei, "Rei's my sister, but..." Hotaru frowns a bit, "Other people can be nice, too. Other friends..."
[12:37] <Rei-chan> "Viluy and Tellu help us out here from time to time when it's busy," Rei supplies, "But they only work as casual mikos - Hotaru was my only student until today," Rei smiles a bit at that.
[12:43] * Ami-chan nods, smiling a little. "It must get a little slow when there's not many people around." she agrees. "It kind of is at home, too, when everyone's out."
[12:45] <Rei-chan> "Yeah. We're getting into fall, now. The place tends to be a lot quieter in this time of year," Rei huffs a bit, "Gives us more time to sweep up all the leaves, I guess..."
[12:50] * Ami-chan laughs softly. "How often during the week can I drop by?" she asks simply. "I'd like to visit, as well... I've... been too busy to see many people lately."
[12:53] <Rei-chan> "You're welcome any time, Ami-chan," Rei smiles warmly. "Of course, I'm not actually here all the time," she admits after a moment. "I guess we can work out some sort of schedule, but there's no real harm in just dropping by whenever you feel like it."
[12:57] * Ami-chan nods, smiling back, feeling more settled than she has in some time. "Thank you..." she nods, relaxing some more. "I think I will. I've missed spending time here."
[13:00] <Rei-chan> "Yeah. You've always seemed so busy lately, we hardly ever see you," Rei says. "What was that you said about combat training, anyway?"
[13:04] * Ami-chan blinks, looking a little put on the spot. "Um." she murumurs, smiling embarrassedly. "I've been learning martial arts from a friend of one of the students I tutor."
[13:05] <Rei-chan> "How's that been working out for you?" Rei presses.
[13:07] * Ami-chan shrugs, and a little of her frustration seeps back into her voice. "Not as well as I'd hoped. Physically, I've improved somewhat, but I haven't found anything that will help me 'pull my own weight', so to speak."
[13:08] <Rei-chan> "You mean fighting as Sailor Mercury?" Rei guesses. "Martial arts don't really apply very well when fighting monsters..."
[13:10] * Ami-chan nods. "It's true." she admits. "But it did help in small ways... I'm not being nearly killed in one hit anymore..." she replies, a slightly bitter expression on her face.
[13:14] <Rei-chan> "Generally it's a good idea to just not get hit at all," Rei notes ruefully. "Although in that regard I really don't see how you can consider yourself worse off than the rest of us. We've all taken our lumps, Ami."
[13:15] <Ami-chan> Ami smiled slightly. "That's true."
[13:16] <Anastasia> Frowning at that, "It is," Hotaru murmurs, glancing over at Rei.
[13:17] * Rei-chan deflates a bit there, knowing that she's the reason Hotaru got hurt fighting Zirae. "I'm sorry, Hotaru," she replies quietly, reaching over to give her hand a squeeze.
[13:19] <Ami-chan> Ami nods solemnly at Hotaru. "I'm not taking away from anything else you all have suffered in fighting. It's just... I often feel... ineffective, compared to the rest of you." she adds carefully. "I... can't seem to accomplish much."
[13:20] <Anastasia> Smiling back and squeezing your hand, Hotaru does look a little better. "I know, sister..." she murmurs, changing the subject by looking at Ami and her face dropping.
[13:21] * Rei-chan chews her lip thoughtfully at Ami's words. "Sounds more like a confidence issue, really. You're certainly not weak by any standard. I'd say martial arts could help if it wasn't for the fact that you sounded so dispirited when you mentioned them..."
[13:23] <Ami-chan> Ami smiles wryly. "I've been practicing for awhile, but... as you say, they're not as effective in a senshi battle..."
[13:26] <Rei-chan> "You should have talked to one of us about this sooner, Ami-chan," Rei can't help but observe. "I hope this training will help you to get better use out of your powers and feel more confident in battle... even though I'm rather hoping we don't have any more fights for a good long while after that Zirae mess."
[13:30] <Ami-chan> Ami looks slightly abashed. "Me too," she agrees softly, the words encompassing the whole of the statement Rei made, nodding and leaning back.
[13:35] <Rei-chan> "Well, I'll do my best to help you," Rei says, "But this is really something you need to confront and deal with on your own terms." Standing up, "Anyway, we'll see how it goes. But for now, how about dinner?"
[13:37] * Ami-chan nods, serious still, but a slight smile coming back. "Sure." she agrees, standing up as well, and glancing at Hotaru with an impish look. "Something other than curry, you said?"
[13:38] <Anastasia> "YES!" Hotaru says, with a surprising even to herself amount of feeling in her voice, before blushing red. "Yes, please, Ami," she repeats, standing and looking away from Rei, face ablaze.
[13:39] * Rei-chan manages to keep her composure, only blushing a little. 'I am SO taking Home Economics next term...'
[13:41] * Ami-chan claps a hand to her mouth to smother the bout of giggling threatening to burst out. Once she calms down a little, she turns to the younger girl, the mirth not completely gone from her voice. "I'll do my best." she tells Hotaru warmly. "Once you're done, can you come and give me a hand? I can cook a little, but It'll be easer with help."
[13:42] <Anastasia> Nodding, "Rei-chan can go take her bath, maybe," she suggests, wanting to keep her well away from the kitchen.
[13:43] <Rei-chan> "Sure, sure," Rei waves it off, knowing that any attempt to argue will just make her look even more pathetic.
[13:45] * Ami-chan gives Rei a lopsided, apologetic smile, and nods. "I'll go get started in the kitchen then. Come find me when you're ready?" she ventures, glancing at Rei to make sure the taller of the two has no problem with her commandeering the situation.
[13:46] * Rei-chan is already distractedly waving them off as she heads towards the bathroom with as much dignity as she can muster.
[13:49] * Ami-chan nods, heading off to the kitchen, letting Hotaru go to get changed...
[14:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> ---
[14:26] <Sailor_Anastasia> A few weeks pass in Herb's attempts to train Megumi. She's really rather meek about the whole thing - she's hard to get to open up, and to be bluntly honest, she's clumsy and bookish.
[14:28] <Sailor_Anastasia> By the end of the second week, while showing a touch of improvement, it's obvious she'd better find a career in more academic or non labor intensive work.
[14:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> Getting up from a small slip, she dusts off her PE clothes. "Teacher, are we going to continue?" the girl asks quietly.
[14:31] <Princess_Herb> "Megumi, are you finding things any easier now that you're out of the main class?" Herb asks.
[14:38] <Sailor_Anastasia> "A little bit," she replies after catching her breath. "I don't see them as much now..."
[14:42] <Princess_Herb> "Well, I have to take you for PE, but if you don't enjoy what we're doing, we can do something else. You're never going to be an Olympic champion, but that doesn't mean that you can't enjoy sports." Herb says.
[14:43] <Princess_Herb> "Do you think there's anything you might like? Something that might help you feel good about yourself?"
[14:45] <Sailor_Anastasia> "...I like flower arranging and poetry... I don't really have any favorite sports," she admits honestly, blushing.
[14:54] * Princess_Herb nods. "I can't see anything wrong with either of those, but I'm not really an expert in either. I don't think they're likely to fulfill the school's PE requirement either."
[14:55] * Princess_Herb muses. "What do you think your strong points are?"
[15:03] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I... I'm good at cooking... that's a strong point," she says finally. "My Mom says I'll make a good wife someday."
[15:18] <Princess_Herb> "It's certainly a start. Can you think of anything else you're good at, while we look at the sports we could try?" Herb says, as she spreads a selection of sporting pamphlets before Megumi. "I want to show you that it doesn't matter how good or bad you are at a thing as long as you know that you have the right attitude."
[15:21] * Princess_Herb looks at the pamphlets: track and field, gymnastics, swimming, equitation, skiing and others. "See, those girls couldn't call you a bad cook and get away with it because you know you're a good one, could they?"
[15:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I guess," she says, looking at the various items. "It's just that... I'll probably never play a sport again once I'm out of high school. I'll be a stay at home mother if anything, teacher."
[15:26] <Princess_Herb> "Why do you say that? If you're at Mugen, you must have a better brain than I do. There're plenty of things to do out there. Besides, if you do have kids, you'll need a ton of self-confidence, or they'll run you ragged."
[15:27] <Sailor_Anastasia> "My Mom and Dad make me go... I can manage, but I'm not really smart," Megumi says, going quieter. "Mom and Dad have stock in Sony and Toyota, so we're kind of rich. Otherwise, I'd just be going to public school..."
[15:30] * Princess_Herb smiles. "Then we're two of a kind. I'd not be in Toudai if it wasn't for something similar." Herb winks. "And goodness knows, even if you do decide to do nothing but raise a family, you'll still need to know how to deal with the women in the Mothers' Union. There'll be the equivalents of that nasty pair everywhere you go, I promise you."
[15:33] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I guess..." she murmurs, looking down.
[15:36] <Princess_Herb> "It's true." Herb says. "So, I want to show you that you can achieve something, and try to show you some techniques for defending yourself against those types as well, while we're at it."
[15:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> "If you say so, teacher," she replies, bowing.
[15:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> Her face hidden by that, you can see she is blushing a bit despite it...
[15:45] <Princess_Herb> "So, does anything here interest you?" Herb asks, "or will I just take one randomly from the pile?"
[15:47] <Sailor_Anastasia> Megumi simply shakes her head. "Maybe... the gymnastics," she ventures finally, not really having anything that strikes her fancy.
[15:52] <Princess_Herb> "That's cool. It's bound to improve your grace and balance, and make you stronger." Herb says, smiling. "And I'm sure I can think of other things to help."
[15:58] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Alright," Megumi agrees, nodding to the teacher's will. "I can start stretching for you, teacher."
[16:02] <Princess_Herb> "I'll give you hints on ways to deal with those bullies as we go along. To start with, I'll show you how to deflect the barbs they aim at you without getting hurt."
[16:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nodding in obdience, "As you say, teacher. When will we begin?"
[16:14] <Princess_Herb> "We're nearly at the end of this class, so in the next one we will begin the gymnastics training." Time that Herb will be needing to work out a practice schedule. "But here's something to think about. The verbal attacks that those girls launch on you will hurt less if you can think up a response that will show that you haven't taken them to heart. Rather than agreeing with them, if one of them says,
[16:15] <Princess_Herb> 'You're so plain, you'll never get a boyfriend', try saying 'I can see you think so'. That will give them less satisfaction, and less power over you because you've not agreed with them, or tried to confront them directly. Do you think that would work for you?"
[16:24] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I don't know," Megumi replies. "They are being honest... I'm not that pretty..."
[16:39] <Princess_Herb> "Well, no, but you're not ugly either. And you do have that traditional Japanese shyness to work with. Some guys go for that in a big way. But that's not important; what's important is not letting them score any points against you. And even if you were the ugliest girl in Japan, that wouldn't mean you were a bad person who deserved to be bullied. Those girls are good-looking, but nasty, remember,
[16:39] <Princess_Herb> so being beautiful isn't a sign of moral worth." Herb says.
[16:51] <Sailor_Anastasia> Megumi sighs to that, but not. "I guess... Teacher."
[16:57] <Princess_Herb> "And if you like, we can maybe even do something about that. I can't teach you how to make the best of your looks, but I know there are experts out there who can. If you like, I can take you for a makeover, my treat, if your parents agree." Herb says. "It'll be money well spent if it helps me fight those bullies."
[17:17] <Sailor_Anastasia> "I don't know," she says. "I mean... I don't really like makeup and all that." Looking up. "You don't have to go to the trouble..."
[17:19] <Princess_Herb> "Well, I don't have to, and you don't need to, but it would be cool if you could see how nice you can look if you try. Then you can hide the photos and no one need ever see them again. But you'd know, and that'd be the main thing. I can;t force you to go, though," Herb says, "but think about it, and we'll continue this next lesson. 'kay?"
[17:19] * Princess_Herb gives the girl her friendliest big-sisterly smile
[17:24] <Sailor_Anastasia> Megumi nods, smiling slightly. "I will, teacher," she manages, bowing.
[17:25] * Princess_Herb bows back.
[17:32] * Princess_Herb plans some simple floor exercises for the first lesson and picks up some videos from the sports section of the local store.
[17:42] * Princess_Herb blinks as she's about to head out of the sports section and turns back to pick up a leotard or two, just in case
[11:19] <Ana-away> ---
[11:22] <Ana-away> Ah, home. It's nice to get away and to rest as you head inside your house. Moreso when your residents haven't done anything that requires fixin', or some sort of apology/payoff/cleanup.
[11:24] <Anastasia> Nian is sitting primly on the living room couch, his feline form absorbed in his own thoughts. With a murmured greeting, he barely glances up. The TV is off, which is unusual, though.
[11:25] <Prince_Herb> "Hi, Nian. Not watching the 'I love Lucy' marathon on channel 13?" Herb says.
[11:27] <Anastasia> "No," is the slightly short reply, the cat shaking it's head. "Regardless, how was your day?"
[11:30] <Prince_Herb> "Not too bad, but I'm still worrying about that girl who was being bullied, o my advisor. I'm trying to give her some self-confidence, but I might need more help."
[11:33] <Anastasia> "Really? How has that been going? I am afraid I have lost track of your efforts in that field," Nian goes on, prompting you.
[11:41] * Prince_Herb tells Nian about what his girl-side has been doing with Megumi, trying to find something that she'd like to try and so on. "She's still afraid to try because she's scared of getting hurt, though, even with simple things. I don't know what the best approach is for her, really. I rather erred the other way as a kid, you know." Herb says, remembering receiving all manner of scrapes and cuts as a youngster.
[11:47] <Anastasia> Nian pauses thoughtfully at that, musing. "Well... certainly, you have to bear in mind that forcing her will only go so far. If you can not make her willing, it's pounding on a brick wall."
[11:47] * Prince_Herb nods. "I want something that will bring her out of herself," the dragon prince says, "so that she can go on to do things herself with confidence. I don't really know much about the way normal teenage girls think, either, which doesn't help."
[11:51] <Anastasia> "Then, why don't you ask the Queen and her Senshi? They are all teenage girls, at least, if not normal."
[11:55] <Prince_Herb> "It's my problem, Nian, not theirs. I don't want to bring the other senshi into it if I don't have to," Herb says, "and I don't think any of them ever had these kinds of self-esteem problems either, not even Hotaru."
[11:56] <Prince_Herb> "So, I thought I'd ask you, my advisor, since you're meant to be an expert on training teenage girls."
[11:58] <Anastasia> "If you insist," he nods simply, thinking a few moments. "Honestly, what I said before holds. Until she's confident enough to do those things, it won't do her much good."
[11:59] <Prince_Herb> "So how do I help her gain some confidence, furball?" Herb says, scratching his wise sensechal behind the ears
[12:06] <Anastasia> "If she's that meek... does she have anything she's good at?" he asks. "Build on those first?"
[12:09] <Prince_Herb> "She says her mother always tells her she's a good cook." Herb replies. "That's as much as we have to work with."
[12:31] <Anastasia> "Then start with that... why don't you ask her to make the both of you a lunch and work from there?"
[12:34] <Prince_Herb> "I'm not sure how I can work that into a teacher-student relationship, but I'll think of something." Herb says. "Unless you had something in mind for that as well?"
[12:35] <Anastasia> "Nothing beyond asking her outright," Nian shrugs.
[12:37] <Prince_Herb> "You know best, o my advisor," Herb nods, "so that's what I'll do."
[12:46] <Anastasia> ---
[12:46] <Anastasia> The next day...
[12:52] <Anastasia> Megumi comes to your office after class, as instructed, knocking on the door.
[12:57] <Princess_Herb> "Come in," Herb calls, opening the door for Megumi.
[13:01] <Anastasia> The girl comes in, short and meek in her Mugen uniform. "Hello, teacher."
[13:04] <Princess_Herb> "Hello Megumi," Herb says. "How are you feeling today?"
[13:06] <Anastasia> "Alright," she says, going to sit and bowing her head.
[13:08] <Princess_Herb> "Do you feel like doing something for extra credit?" Herb asks. "I have something I'd like to try."
[13:12] <Anastasia> "Yes, teacher," she asks, "What do you have in mind?"
[13:16] <Princess_Herb> "You said that your mother said you were a very good cook, I remember. I thought it would be a good self-confidence exercise if you made lunch for us both for the next class. How does that strike you?"
[13:33] <Anastasia> "Well... I suppose," she murmurs, coloring a bit.
[13:38] <Princess_Herb> "Good, that's settled, then," says Herb with a big smile. She hands the girl some money to defray expenses. "I'm looking forward to it already."
[13:44] <Anastasia> She takes it, nodding. "...Okay, until tomorrow, then," she asks, already mentally working.
[15:33] <Anastasia> --------
[15:33] <Anastasia> The next day comes... a bit cloudy and otherwise unremarkable, you note you have an appointment for lunch today.
[15:36] * Princess_Herb heads on down to meet Megumi, hoping that she's not too stressed out today.
[15:39] <Anastasia> Meeting her down in a small, quiet part of the school with an empty classroom - agreed on by her, you find Megumi waiting for you. Two pink boxed lunches are sitting on the front desk, the girl waiting with her gaze clearly introverted.
[15:42] * Princess_Herb waves to Megumi. "Hello there!"
[15:49] <Anastasia> Megumi startles a bit, coming out of her daydream. "H-h-hello, teacher," she manages, blushing brightly as she turns to you.
[15:51] * Princess_Herb sits down next to the girl. "What were you thinking about, Megumi? Something delicious?"
[15:54] <Anastasia> "Oh... n-nothing like that," she says, still blushing and looking at her shoes yet again. "It's... just..."
[15:55] <Princess_Herb> "Just...?"
[15:58] <Anastasia> "Nothing," she shakes her head, weakly gesturing to her two boxes. "Here you are, teacher..."
[16:01] <Princess_Herb> "Thank you, Megumi." Herb says. "Itadakimasu!" She opens her box and inspects it
[16:02] <Anastasia> White rice, fried chicken, shrimp, etc. The makings of a nice box lunch are all here, and smell decent. Looks well made enough. "Good eating," Megumi manages, as she opens her own box.
[16:09] * Princess_Herb tries some of the delicious looking food. "Your mother is right; you do cook well. I can just about boil water for ramen without burning it."
[16:14] <Anastasia> It's rather good. Not gold medal good, but it's nice and homestyle cookin'. Just what a mother should make, really. "Thanks," she murmurs, blushing as she reaches down and retrieves two still-cool cans of some carbonated drink. "Mom says I can cook well, at least."
[16:16] <Princess_Herb> "So, have you worked out why I asked you to make lunch today?" Herb asks as she eats.
[16:20] <Anastasia> This causes her to blush again, stopping. "No... but... My Mom thins she knows why," she ventures. "They want you to come over, teacher... they think... that... that..." she starts stammering, so red as to light up the room. "That... I have... a ... boyfriend and..."
[16:25] <Princess_Herb> "Oh dear. I probably will have to visit them, then, just to prove I'm not your secret beau." Herb says with a grin. "But can you make a guess as to why?"
[16:29] <Anastasia> "Mom saw me making two lunches," Megumi begins, clutching her drink in embarrassment. "And she thought it was for someone special."
[16:32] <Princess_Herb> "Well, maybe one day it will be for someone special, Megumi." Herb says, "but today the special person is really you."
[16:40] <Anastasia> Megumi just blushes, nodding.
[16:43] <Princess_Herb> "I asked you to make lunch to make a point, though." says Herb, "Not just so I could enjoy a home-made meal, either."
[16:48] <Anastasia> "Oh?" she asks, looking up slightly.
[16:53] <Princess_Herb> "How did you feel about all the dangerous things you had to do to make lunch?" Herb asks.
[17:09] <Anastasia> That causes her to blink, surprised. "Teacher?" she asks, not comprehending.
[17:12] <Princess_Herb> "All those sharp knives and the hot stove you were working with?" Herb prompts. "People often hurt themselves cooking, you know."
[17:24] <Anastasia> She blushes fiercely at that. "But it's not dangerous!" she protests. "I mean... it's... just... cooking?"
[17:26] <Princess_Herb> "What makes the difference is that you're confident about cooking, doesn't it?" Herb says. "You know the risks, and you know they're not great and that you can cope with them. Isn't that right?"
[17:33] <Anastasia> "Um... but... cooking isn't dangerous," she still protests, fumbling with the concept.
[17:37] <Princess_Herb> "Well, all right, I believe you. But will you believe me when I tell you that gymnastics isn't either?" Herb says
[17:58] <Anastasia> "But... it is..." she murmurs. "I mean... all that jumping around and all that..."
[18:02] <Princess_Herb> "What about all those sharp knives and hot stoves?" Herb asks. "It's all a matter of perspective, isn't it?"
[13:56] <Anastasia> "But..." Megumi still stammers, working with it.
[14:01] <Princess_Herb> "So, what are you frightened of?" Herb asks. "I know you're confident enough to control what happens in the kitchen, so what I want to help you do is bring that out in the rest of your life."
[14:34] <Anastasia> "But... I..." Megumi sighs. "It's not like cooking, though."
[14:38] <Princess_Herb> "Of course it isn't." Herb agrees. "But that doesn't mean you can't be as proud of what you can do in the PE class as what you can do in the kitchen."
[14:48] <Anastasia> This gets a thoughtful silence, as Megumi stares down and thinks... she seems to be considering your words, albeit quietly.
[14:55] <Princess_Herb> Herb smiles. "And what's true for cooking and PE is true for other things as well."
[15:06] <Anastasia> "I guess..." she finally murmurs, playing with her food a bit. "But..."
[15:07] * Princess_Herb waits for the girl to finish her thought.
[15:38] <Anastasia> "I... don't want to fail at them, either," she finally finishes.
[10:11] <Princess_Herb> "Failure is part of life, Megumi. But it's only part, not the whole. If you make a souffle which collapses, you don't give up cooking; you learn from it." Herb says.
[10:15] <Sailor_Anastasia> "But I fail at everything..." she says, almost not saying it so quietly. "I couldn't even handle it when those girls told me that..."
[10:22] <Princess_Herb> "That's a matter of self-belief, rather than competence, Megumi." Herb says. "If you can achieve confidence in yourself, then their attacks will not be able to hurt you."
[10:24] <Princess_Herb> "But to do that, you have to let go of your fears for long enough to learn how."
[10:30] <Sailor_Anastasia> A long silence, as Megumi stares at her shoes. "But... Teacher... as much as I try, I still keep failing like this..."
[10:32] <Princess_Herb> "How have you failed?" Herb asks. "Haven't you tried as hard as you can?"
[10:37] <Sailor_Anastasia> Megumi simply sighs - a deep, tired, sad sound. "It's... I'm only good at cooking," she replies. "I've tried hard at other things, but... I'm just not good at anything."
[10:45] <Princess_Herb> "You don't have to be good at something to enjoy it, or to gain self-confidence from it, Megumi." Herb frowns. "But being good at cooking is no small achievement. Remember I told you I can't even boil water without burning it?"
[10:53] <Sailor_Anastasia> "But cooking is easy," she points out automatically. "I can even do it... and you're good at all of this, so you should be way better than me..."
[10:57] <Princess_Herb> "It's not easy for me," says Herb, "and you're undervaluing yourself if you think it is."
[11:04] <Sailor_Anastasia> Megumi shakes her head, as the chime for next period rings. Where does the time go?
[11:07] * Princess_Herb thanks Megumi for the meal, and leaves for her own next class. "Am I getting through to her?" she ponders.
[11:08] <Princess_Herb> After school, Herb returns home to tell her cat about the day's news.
[12:42] <Ana-brb> ---
[12:43] <Ana-brb> And the next week starts. After class, Megumi comes as instucted, decked out for gymnastics - proper clothing for it, in other words. "What will we do first, teacher," the meek girl asks off the bat, curious.
[12:47] <Princess_Herb> "Well, we start with a little warm-up, to get the blood flowing and the muscles ready for work," Herb says.
[12:48] <Ana-brb> With a small nod, "Alright, teacher," Megumi states, waiting for said teacher to lead the way. The room is filled with various mats and gymnastics equipment, scattered about the room.
[12:50] * Princess_Herb turns on the CD player to provide a little light backing music and then proceeds to lead Megumi through the warm-up she's devised.
[12:51] <Ana-brb> While not an overly strenous workout, Megumi does stumble once. In spite of that, it goes by well enough, the girl managing to make it through without too many problems...
[12:55] <Princess_Herb> "This first lesson will mostly be about how to roll, so that you don't hurt yourself when you land," Herb says, thinking involuntarily of the many bad landings she's seen in the battles of the Sailor Senshi over the past year. "It's pretty important to know this stuff, since everyone falls off the bars and beams sometimes."
[12:58] <Ana-brb> A single nod there. "We'll be doing that today on the mats, teacher?"
[12:58] <Ana-brb> The girl glances at said mats, pondering a bit on how to do just that.
[13:02] <Princess_Herb> "Best place for it," Herb agrees with a smile. "I'll show you the basic rolls and then help you work through them."
[13:03] * Princess_Herb walks out onto the mat and begins the demonstration
[13:06] <Sailor_Anastasia> Watching Herb quietly, Megumi waits for her teacher to finish before attempting anything herself.
[13:10] * Princess_Herb beckons Megumi onto the mat and has her try the basic rolls for herself.
[13:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[13:12] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[13:12] <Sailor_Anastasia> Nodding once, "Okay..." she murmurs, trying a few. The first few basic ones go well enough, though on the fourth one she misjudges and ends up kinda flopping onto her side instead.
[13:17] <Princess_Herb> "That's not too bad," Herb say. "You didn't quite get that last one right, but otherwise pretty good.". Herb smiles and runs Megumi through the rolls again.
[13:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> MEgumi nods, brushing off her side as she tries again...
[13:18] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[13:18] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[13:19] <Sailor_Anastasia> This set goes a bit better, the girl making it through them without undue messes. On finishing, she stands a bit, dizzy but having managed a basic set.
[13:26] <Princess_Herb> "Good stuff. Now you know how to fall, we can really begin." Herb says. "I don't think I want to show you the equipment today; maybe next time. Perhaps something for your upper body. How are you at handstands?" Seeing that Megumi looks a little worried, she tries to reassure her. "Don't worry; I'll be holding you to begin with."
[13:31] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Not very good..." she murmurs, but she nods nonetheless. "I guess I can try..."
[13:32] <Princess_Herb> "Go for it!"
[13:36] <Sailor_Anastasia> roll 2d6
[13:36] * Hatbot --> "Sailor_Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[13:36] <Sailor_Anastasia> The girl manages to at least try, though she tends to pitch forward the moment she tries to move to her head at all. Her balance for this doesn't look to be good at all...
[13:39] * Princess_Herb holds onto the girl, supporting her weight so that she can carry through the manoeuvre.
[13:40] <Sailor_Anastasia> OOC - Herb, Body check with -1 bonus.
[13:41] <Princess_Herb> roll 2d6-1
[13:41] * Hatbot --> "Princess_Herb rolls 2d6-1 and gets 3."
[13:42] <Sailor_Anastasia> Despite a miscalculation on her part that sends her going forward, you still catch and stop her easily enough. Holding her in position, she does achive the goal... even if she is rather wobbbly..."Ooooh..." she moans as you hold her legs.
[13:46] <Princess_Herb> "Careful there." says Herb, "you don't need to put quite so much energy into it as that.". She holds the girl in position for a few moments, then lets her go back onto her feet.
[13:54] <Sailor_Anastasia> The girl almost topples back over onto her backside, dizzy. "Oh... all the blood rushed to my head," Megumi manages, weakly.
[13:56] <Princess_Herb> "You'll get used to it, Megumi. It feels weird at first, though."
[14:02] * Princess_Herb continues the lesson until the allocated hour is up, teaching Megumi some of the basics of womens' gymnastics. "How do you feel now, Megumi? An hour ago you didn't even know how to fall, after all."
[14:02] <Sailor_Anastasia> "It's... hard," Megumi blushes, looking away from her teacher. "I keep feeling like I'm going to fall or hurt myself trying it."
[14:09] <Princess_Herb> "Well, you might. People sometimes get hurt playing sports, after all. But I promise you, this stuff is pretty safe, and you will get better at it, just like you did with swimming. And you'll feel a lot more confidence in yourself in everything you do once you have."
[14:11] <Sailor_Anastasia> Standing now and still shaky, "If you say so, teacher. It just kind of makes me sore right now, though..."
[14:18] <Princess_Herb> "You're using your muscles to do strange things; they'll hurt a little until you get used to it." Herb says. "Don't worry about it too much, Megumi."
[14:23] <Sailor_Anastasia> "Mmmm..." Megumi murmurs, shaking her head a second time to clear it. "I don't want to get hurt and torn up, though."
[14:34] <Princess_Herb> "I don't think I want you to be hurt either, but life isn't entirely safe for anyone." Herb says. "Part of what these special classes are about is to show you that life isn't a thing to be afraid of, and that you can work through your fears. Right now, you have a fear of getting hurt; if you can deal with that fear and achieve something in spite of it, you'll be that much closer to being able to deal with those bullies in the changing room."
[14:35] * Princess_Herb looks at Megumi quizzically to see if she understands.
[10:01] <Anastasia> "I guess so," she murmurs, blushing at the attention you give her. "It's just that..."
[10:02] <Sailor_Dragon> "Yes?" Herb asks, quite gently
[10:12] <Anastasia> "I..." Turning and blushing, Megumi studies the floor and mats. "Nothing, teacher."
[10:19] <Sailor_Dragon> "Megumi, there's nothing to be afraid of. Thinking of the bad things that could happen to you means you never see the good things. And there are a lot of those." Herb smiles again. "So, I'll see you next time, Megumi."
[10:20] <Anastasia> The girl just nods to you, leaving. "Until next time, teacher."
[10:22] * Sailor_Dragon changes and heads up to to the office to draft a letter to the girl's parents, arranging a home visit.
[10:29] * Princess_Herb heads home to get tips for dealing with the situation from her cat...

[11:00] <Anastasia> ---
[11:02] <Anastasia> Shopping! After spending a bit of schooltime on Saturday this fine September day, Rei and Usagi head off the shopping districts. With a fair deal of yen in each's pockets, it looks to be a fine day for all. And it is, leaving the first shop with a bag each... yet as you do, Usagi senses a familiar, strong aura.
[11:05] * Usagi-chan frowns slightly, trying to see if she can place what pinged her magical senses.
[11:05] <Anastasia> OOC - Soul check, Usagi-chan.
[11:06] * Rei-chan notes the frown and looks askance at the blonde.
[11:06] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[11:06] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[11:08] <Anastasia> It's one you've sensed here once before... and one that brings the slightest mental ping, the tugging at a notably bad memory - that one day, after the fall of Beryl...
[11:08] * Usagi-chan twitches slightly, her frown deepening. 'Not one of them...' she thinks with a grimace.
[11:09] <Rei-chan> "One of who?" Rei asks, some worry creeping into her tone.
[11:09] <Usagi-chan> "One of the criminals," Usagi says shortly, striking out towards the source of the aura with a grim expression on her face.
[11:10] <Rei-chan> "Hmm..." Rei blinks, following Usagi. "What if it is?" she asks, "Think he or she is going to try something, now?"
[11:10] <Usagi-chan> "I don't know, but I intend to find out," Usagi replies. "I hope not, but I'd rather be sure."
[11:11] <Rei-chan> "Guess so," Rei shrugs. "Just be nice - considering the lack of trouble, I'd say we're dealing with someone like Starfire who just wants to get on with life without a fuss."
[11:12] <Anastasia> The aura is a few blocks away, inside of a men's fashion boutique. The windows show rather pretty, well cut clothes.
[11:12] * Usagi-chan still looks rather determined as she heads into the shop, looking for the person at the source of the aura.
[11:13] * Rei-chan walks along beside Usagi, paying attention herself for any auras of note.
[11:14] <Anastasia> The person is in the back. You can just see him, browsing a rack of clothes. The description is familiar... a memory of Makoto telling you something coming to the surface.
[11:15] * Usagi-chan nods slightly, stopping to give the man a much closer inspection now that she can actually see him. He certainly doesn't LOOK like he's going to cause any trouble...
[11:15] <Anastasia> OOC - Soul check for the mystical end of this.
[11:17] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6
[11:17] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[11:18] <Anastasia> He's rather pretty, almost feminine in manner and makeup. His waist is even slender as a woman's, wearing a dark purple suit that looks nice and right on him. Sans a tie, it gives a certain casual impression despite the overall dressiness of it. His aura, however... his aura is truly something unusual. There is a bit of an almost Minako-like goldenness as a base, but it's small and almost buried by two other forces.
[11:19] <Anastasia> Beautiful, lively white and chill, black decay and death.
[11:20] * Usagi-chan blinks in surprise at the powerful contrast present in the man's aura, feeling not slightly nervous as she examines the man.
[11:20] <Anastasia> As you look, he looks up coolly at you, smiling charmingly. "Is there something here you like, laides," he asys in a smoothish voice.
[11:20] * Usagi-chan smiles hesitantly. "Just, ah, looking around for now, thanks."
[11:21] * Rei-chan smiles a bit more genuinely than Usagi. "Hello..." she trails off, expectantly waiting for a name.
[11:22] <Anastasia> He eyes first Usagi, then Rei, his smile growing. "Such lovely ladies," he purrs, abandoning his place to come over. "I swear, you two could be models or princesses with your beauty. Have you considered working in fashion, either of you?"
[11:22] <Rei-chan> "Funny you should say Princesses," Rei replies, deciding that it'd be pointless to pussyfoot around the matter. Orestes recognised Makoto just fine, and this guy probably can recognise them as well.
[11:23] * Usagi-chan puts a hand to her head. "Not really," she says absently.
[11:25] <Anastasia> Smiling still nicely at Rei, "Ah, I was hoping you would dance with me further," he sighs with a bit of melodrama. "Such a blunt, cold fish, even with a few millenia to think it over."
[11:26] * Usagi-chan's mind finally throws up a name. "Pytha, I assume?"
[11:26] * Rei-chan blinks, giving her head a minute shake to clear it. "Cold, me?" she replies, almost jokingly offended. "But you have me at a disadvantage, since my memories of a few millenia ago aren't quite as sharp as yours must be."
[11:27] <Anastasia> Nodding to Usagi, "Your Highness," he murmurs quietly, then to Rei. "Cold as ice, if the rumors were true. Cold as a Plutonian winter, without a flicker of her guardian's fire except in ire."
[11:28] * Rei-chan snorts lightly. "Rumours. Feh. I'm just misunderstood."
[11:28] <Usagi-chan> "I wouldn't say she's cold," Usagi says with a wry smile. "Trust me, if you think that you haven't gotten her mad."
[11:29] <Anastasia> "No," he chuckles. "Cynthia had you right, madam. So did Jadeite, I imagine." Shaking his head at that, "Regardless, perhaps we should take old business elsewhere?"
[11:29] <Rei-chan> "This is a bit public," Rei agrees, nodding.
[11:30] * Usagi-chan nods. "That would be fine with me."
[11:33] <Anastasia> "I have a lovely place just a few streets down," he nods, "Though, we'll have to rely on natural means. Such an annoyance in these barbaric summers," he snorts, putting on a bit.
[11:35] <Rei-chan> "I suppose this is your first summer in Japan, isn't it?" Rei notes, a bit amused by that.
[11:35] * Usagi-chan snorts. "You get used to it," she replies.
[11:37] <Anastasia> "Of course... sadly, that one annoying relic of the Moon Kingdom outlasted even the Kingdom that replaced it," with a slight chuckle, you head outside. "I should thank you, Princess," he goes on. "You got us out even quicker than we would have ourselves."
[11:38] <Usagi-chan> "Don't thank me," Usagi says with a scowl. "It definitely wasn't on my list of things to do."
[11:39] <Anastasia> "But I would be remiss otherwise," he smiles simply. "After all, you essentially gave us back our freedom from that noxious imprisonment, and disposed of the resident freeloaders as well."
[11:40] * Usagi-chan sighs. "Considering what happened BECAUSE of that, I'd really rather not have done it. As far as I'm concerned, that entire month was just one long nightmare."
[11:41] <Rei-chan> "At least you've had the good sense to take advantage of your fresh start, Pytha," Rei notes approvingly. "Most of them just went right back to getting themselves in trouble, again."
[11:45] <Anastasia> "No matter," he dismisses Usagi's comments. "You won, even against that beast of a thing Oxyite and that gruesome demon summoner. And I thank you for that from the bottom of my heart - both were terrible conversationalists, Oxyite never would get into it and that Cynthia always went on about 'Serenity is going to burn under the inferno' this and 'I will bring Hell to this world' that."
[11:46] * Usagi-chan 's expression tightens a bit at the former criminal's description of Cynthia, but she doesn't press the issue. "She changed her mind before the end," is her only reply.
[11:46] * Rei-chan winces a bit, giving Usagi a glance as Cynthia comes up in those terms.
[11:47] <Anastasia> "Good for her," he nods. "At least Jadeite could manage coherent conversation between rants again Queen Beryl and the Sailor Senshi... though Orestes always started up about Jupiter at that," he sighs. "And Guinvain... dear Goddesses. Not a good gossiper in the ground."
[11:48] <Rei-chan> "So... you were all AWARE in that prison for thousands of years with each other?" Rei asks in surprise, and not a little aghast.
[11:49] <Anastasia> "Oh, not all of it," he dimisses that with a wave, "Just near the end. That hack Beryl didn't know quite what she was doing with the sealing enchatment, and it began to crack the wards around it. It allowed us to percieve conscious thought and the passage of time."
[11:50] * Usagi-chan sighs. "Is that why it broke when I got into the room?"
[11:50] * Rei-chan nods. "That's a relief. Being conscious for all that time with nothing to do would be horrific..."
[11:51] <Anastasia> Entering a nice, stylish little buidling with clothes up front, a boutique, "We were making an effort to escape come the fall of the Dark Kingdom, but you managed to accelerate it."
[11:51] * Usagi-chan rubs her temples. "Don't remind me... I thought I was going to get killed on the spot."
[09:23] * Usagi-chan frowns. "More than a few of them tried it later on," she retorts.
[09:27] <Anastasia> Leading you a short flight of stairs to the second floor, "I considered having a tussle with you as well," he admits freely, face vaguely amused. "I'm still on the splits with your mother for sure because of that."
[09:28] <Usagi-chan> "I'm glad you didn't," Usagi says with a sigh. "And Mother... she passed away just before the prison was broken, although I expect you already knew that."
[09:29] <Anastasia> He nods. "I wasn't even aware she'd lived that long, the old bag," he says, down a hallway to a nice little office room of a short, colorful designs for clothes about. "Though, I was more surprised about Sailor Venus in this time. Reincarnation is a cruel mistress."
[09:30] * Usagi-chan scowls a bit at the man's description of her mother, but doesn't make an issue of it.
[09:30] <Rei-chan> "We all hope she's at peace now, at least..." Rei says softly as Minako comes up.
[09:33] <Anastasia> "Considering she went over-the-Moon crazy, I doubt it," he snorts prissily, nostrils flaring ever so slightly as he raises his head up. "Pity, though."
[09:33] * Usagi-chan's scowl deepens, but she'd rather not turn this into a fight.
[09:34] * Rei-chan frowns. "You shouldn't speak so ill of the departed," she reprimands.
[09:35] <Anastasia> "Why?" he says, sitting and putting one leg up over the other. "They aren't here to hear it. But regardless... you should thank her. She was the one who convinced me not to go after you in a way, Serenity."
[09:36] <Usagi-chan> "What do you mean?" Usagi says, frowning a bit.
[09:38] <Anastasia> Leaning forward and resting his head on his hand, "It's simple, really. I watched Minako for a little bit after being freed." Stopping to wave a hand dismissively and limp-wristed, "Oh, don't get me like that. I'm not a obssessed idiot like Orestes was. I was merely curious to see how she had turned out in this age."
[09:39] * Rei-chan winces, knowing that seeing Minako in December wouldn't have given a very good picture at all.
[09:39] <Usagi-chan> "And?" Usagi says, wondering what he thought of Minako's actions - although she's already got a fair guess from his earlier description.
[09:41] <Anastasia> "She lost it so very fabulously," he smiles just a bit. "She was dating a girl while having hissy fits big enough to outshine Queen Serenity and driving away her friends."
[09:41] * Rei-chan can't bring herself to refute that...
[09:41] * Usagi-chan frowns at Pytha's choice of words, but can't really find any flaw in his argument.
[09:44] <Anastasia> "And I realised... with the hell she put you through along with all the other criminals, what was the point?" he smiles slightly nastily, cattily, a thin, narrow smile. "I could have come along right after Jupiter-boy and Cynthia got themselves killed and finished you off, but... I can't say I have the heart to kick a cat while it's down."
[09:44] * Rei-chan glares. "Good thing for all concerned that you listened to your better nature."
[09:45] <Usagi-chan> "You're too kind," Usagi replies dryly, clearly angry.
[09:46] <Anastasia> "Isn't it," he smiles right back to Rei, a acidic facial expression if you've ever seen one. "And after all... revenge or not, I had a life to continue. This planet is the only show in town now, so I've decided to make a name for myself here."
[09:49] <Usagi-chan> "As long as you don't start any trouble, I could care less what you do," Usagi replies, still frowning.
[09:51] <Anastasia> "Good, smashingly good." With that, he nods. "I suppose from what I've seen and felt that you've done a reasonably good job of keeping this city in one piece."
[09:52] <Rei-chan> "We do try," Rei replies flatly.
[09:54] * Usagi-chan nods to Rei.
[09:54] <Anastasia> "So... I suppose you've finished your social call here, or is there anything else? I really should be getting to work." Standing, he smiles. "Oh, and I am serious... I could use a few more models to work with, and a splash of other blood would be nice amid all these Earthians."
[09:55] <Usagi-chan> "I'll pass, thanks," Usagi says in a flat tone.
[09:56] <Rei-chan> "Sorry," Rei replies, not really meaning it, "But we're so awfully busy what with making sure the city remains in one piece..."
[09:58] <Anastasia> "Of course," he nods. "Well, you can see yourselves out, I'm sure," he nods, his charm rather gone. "For what it's worth, Serenity, I don't bear too much of a grudge against you as much as against your mother. Hopefully, the daughter will take after her father more."
[09:59] * Usagi-chan's eyebrow quirks up at that, but she doesn't bite, simply rising from her seat. "I'm sure we can," she replies, turning to leave.
[10:00] * Rei-chan gives Pytha a small bow. "Good luck with your life on Earth, Pytha," she offers, before following Usagi out.
[10:03] <Anastasia> With a small nod to Rei, "And I hope yours goes well, Princess Mars. But... tell me," he decides after a moment. "I'm curious about this, actually."
[10:03] * Rei-chan pauses at the door, giving him a curious look.
[10:03] * Usagi-chan stops in the door, turning her head to look at the former criminal.
[10:04] <Anastasia> "Does Minako still like flowers?" he asks, mildly curious.
[10:06] * Rei-chan furrows her brow slightly in thought. "Actually... in all the time I knew her this lifetime, she never mentioned anything about flowers except to say she hated roses."
[10:12] <Anastasia> "Ah well... I'll avoid roses," he nods, turning away. "Good luck on surviving the upcoming centuries..." he says with a slight grimace. "The culture here is SO unaccepting of you once you've lived past 100 years, I swear."
[10:12] <Usagi-chan> "Thanks," Usagi says, continuing on her way out of Pytha's office.
[10:13] <Rei-chan> "I'm sure you'll manage," Rei offers a small smile. "Goodbye, Pytha." With that, she steps out.
[10:15] <Anastasia> ---
[09:52] <Anastasia> It's a fine afternoon in the early fall as the various girls gather in the Witches office after class. Perhaps in keeping with the cool weather, your teachers were merciful across the board. Yet, as you gather... Professor Tomoe is waiting downstairs for the group of you.
[09:53] <Anastasia> Nodding to Rei, "Hotaru won't be joining you today," he says simply. "She's ill again," with a touch of worry, he goes on, "The flu."
[09:53] * Usagi-chan looks a bit sad at that. "Hope she's feeling better soon," she says. "I'll see if Mom can make her up some chicken soup or something."
[09:54] * Rei-chan nods understandingly. "The cold weather isn't very good for her. She should just take it easy for a few days."
[09:55] <Anastasia> Glancing up from her heavy book of science and yawning, "That poor girl..." Viluy half murmurs, partially asleep. "We should get some flowers and visit her."
[09:56] * Haruka simply nods from her seat next to Viluy as the others have already said what was on her mind.
[09:56] <Rei-chan> "Hmm... she really should just be resting, but she would be happy if we visited," Rei agrees with Viluy.
[09:57] <Princess_Herb> "We should." Herb agrees. "It can't be fun to be ill."
[09:58] <Anastasia> Nodding personal agreement, "If you want - just don't keep her up late, she needs her rest."
[09:59] <Usagi-chan> "Well, if she's not feeling well I'd rather not stay for too long - just say hi and check up on her." The blonde smiles a bit at that.
[09:59] <Rei-chan> "Don't worry, Professor," Rei smiles, "We'll just stop by to let her know we're thinking of her and chat for a little bit."
[10:02] <Anastasia> At that, "Some black orchids?" Viluy muses, glancing at Haruka.
[10:05] * Haruka meets Viluy's glance, but honestly has no clue about the flower choice. "I suppose," she returns, with a shrug of cluelessness on the matter.
[10:06] <Anastasia> He nods simply. "I trust you to do so. There are some face masks outside of her room, if you wish - the flu is terribly contagious this year."
[10:07] * Rei-chan nods. "I was sick with it last year. I'd rather not get it again."
[10:07] * Usagi-chan nods. "We'll be careful."
[10:08] <Anastasia> After a small side trip to procure a small vase and flowers, you arrive at the Tomoe residence. Let in by a nice old lady, "Are you here to see Hotaru, dears?" she asks. The insides of the house have been throughly done over - lighter colors, sunroofs, more windows... an altogether more friendly abode.
[10:09] * Usagi-chan nods. "If she's awake, yeah," Usagi answers.
[10:12] <Anastasia> Nodding slightly as she holds the vase in her hands, "Yes, ma'am. She has the flu?" Smiling, Viluy nods again to the woman.
[10:16] <Anastasia> "Yes, Hotaru is bedridden," the maid says, leading you back to her room. A table is set up there, with a box of face masks and tissue on it.
[10:16] * Usagi-chan takes one of the masks, recalling the Professor's warning - she doesn't want to get sick herself, and she certainly doesn't need to take the flu home.
[10:17] * Rei-chan also dons a facemask, waiting for the others to be similarly attired before heading inside.
[10:17] * Princess_Herb follows the Queen's example. "A dragon with the flu might be really alarming, you know."
[10:18] <Haruka> "Alarming or silly?" Haruka comments, donning her own mask as well.
[10:18] <Anastasia> Viluy does the same, "The last time I had the flu," she murmurs thoughtfully, putting the mask on. "Just before Germatou..."
[10:18] * Rei-chan snorts lightly at Haruka's comment, amused as she goes inside Hotaru's room.
[10:19] <Usagi-chan> "I haven't had the flu in a couple of years now," Usagi says, following Rei into Hotaru's bedroom.
[10:20] <Haruka> "I always seem to catch something every year..." Haruka mumbles as she follows Usagi.
[10:21] * Princess_Herb follows the younger senshi into the room where the youngest senshi lies sick
[10:21] <Anastasia> Going inside, you see Hotaru, lying back on her bed amid a small sea of tissue boxes, juice bottles and a nearly full trash can. "Rei-chan? Herb-chan?" she murmurs weakly, face flushed. "Daddy? Mommy?"
[10:22] * Usagi-chan blinks. "No, Daddy's still at Mugen, Hotaru-chan," Usagi says quietly. "It's Usagi, Haruka, and Viluy."
[10:22] <Rei-chan> "Hey, little sis," Rei says gently, approaching the bed. "We heard you were sick so we came to check up on you."
[10:23] <Anastasia> Viluy comes forward with a smile. "We brought you some flowers, Hotaru-chan," she says, setting them on her nightstand.
[10:23] <Anastasia> Hotaru smiles sickly, eyes watery. "Rei-chan...?"
[10:23] <Rei-chan> "It's me, Hotaru-chan," Rei confirms, taking the girl's hand. 'Boy, this flu is really doing a number on her...'
[10:24] <Usagi-chan> 'Sure is,' Usagi replies, taking a seat near the foot of Hotaru's bed. "How are you feeling, Hotaru-chan?"
[10:26] <Anastasia> "Mmm... it's hot in here," she says, the girl under the blankets to her chin, sweaty.
[10:27] <Rei-chan> "You're burning up," Rei observes, a tad worriedly. "You just rest, Hotaru-chan," she goes on, trying to sound soothing. "Best if you sleep through the worst of it."
[10:27] * Usagi-chan nods. "Just take it easy for now - I'm sure you'll be feeling just fine in a few days."
[10:28] <Anastasia> "Mmmm..." she moans tiredly. "Can't you bring a fan in here, Rei-chan?"
[10:29] <Rei-chan> "I'll ask the maid about it," Rei agrees quietly, standing up. "Just rest, little sis. You'll feel better in the morning."
[10:30] <Anastasia> "Okay... but read me a story, Rei-chan," Hotaru says after that, as you rise.
[10:31] <Anastasia> Watching on, Viluy glances at Haruka again. "Poor child," she murmurs. "Can't Usagi help her?"
[10:31] * Rei-chan blinks. "Okay, Hotaru," she nods after a moment, before leaving the room in search of the maid to procure a fan.
[10:32] <Usagi-chan> "I can try, but I'm not sure what to do, exactly," Usagi says apologetically. "It's not exactly like getting hurt where I can tell what needs to be fixed."
[10:35] <Haruka> "Strange to hear that there are things you CAN'T do," Haruka comments to Usagi with a chuckle.
[10:35] <Princess_Herb> "I can try to draw off some of the fever's heat by manipulating the ki energy around you," says Herb, "But you have a strong soul, and it might make it harder to work on."
[10:36] * Rei-chan returns a moment later with a small fan that she sets up on Hotaru's nightstand, on the lowest setting. Walking over to Hotaru's bookshelf, she looks over the books available. "Any special story you want me to read, Hotaru?"
[10:36] * Princess_Herb thinks of cool mountain springs and spring breezes as she touches the outer shell of Hotaru-chan's soul
[10:37] <Princess_Herb> roll 2d6+2
[10:37] * Musk-bot --> "Princess_Herb rolls 2d6+2 and gets 9."
[10:39] <Anastasia> "Mmm... just read me one..." she murmurs, as Herb's effect and the fan start to wash over her. At that, she weakly throws off her cover, revealing a very sweaty girl in a sports bra and sweat pants. She tries to sit up, facing the fan...
[10:40] <Usagi-chan> "Hotaru-chan, just relax," Usagi says, moving forward to press the girl back down into bed. "You shouldn't try to get up right now."
[10:40] * Rei-chan takes a book at random and returns to the bedside. "Just lie down, Hotaru. Going straight from hot to cold won't help you at all," she reprimands gently.
[10:41] <Anastasia> Crumbling under your touch, the girl slumps back down in her bed. She's feverish to the touch... just like that one time with Shingo when you were nine. She's quite hot.
[10:42] * Usagi-chan tries to do what she can, murmuring quietly as she attempts to heal the girl. If nothing else, hopefully the magic can help her to relax and feel a bit better.
[10:44] <Anastasia> Your magic reaches the girl, having minimal effect. Her weak body doesn't seem to be helping your cause. As Rei reads on, Hotaru does at least relax at her storytelling..
[10:44] <Anastasia> Eyes dropping as Rei goes on, the girl begins to smile amid her reddened cheeks...
[10:44] * Rei-chan reads on in a soft, soothing voice - she doesn't want to make it too interesting, it's just background noise to help lull the girl to sleep.
[10:44] * Usagi-chan shakes her head slightly, withdrawing her hand as the magic fades.
[10:46] <Anastasia> As Rei finishes, Hotaru looks to be on the verge of falling back asleep. "Mmm... thank you, sister..." she manages, smiling. "Tell Mom we'll go with her to the store..."
[10:46] * Rei-chan smiles wanly. "I'll tell her, Hotaru," she agrees in a whisper, setting the book down and rising quietly so as not to disturb her.
[10:47] * Usagi-chan follows suit, standing silently before heading out of the bedroom.
[10:47] <Anastasia> Viluy smiles once more at the girl, following.
[10:48] * Princess_Herb quietly follows the queen out of Hotaru's sickroom.
[10:49] * Haruka goes last, closing the door softly behind her. "Rest well," she whispers.
[10:49] <Anastasia> Once outside, Viluy takes off her mask, frowning. "I hope she won't be going to the hospital soon, but the way she looked?"
[10:50] * Usagi-chan nods, frowning. "Definitely not good... I just hope she doesn't get any worse."
[10:50] <Rei-chan> "Her constitution isn't the best," Rei agrees sadly. "I hope she'll be okay in a week or so."
[10:53] <Anastasia> "I hope," Viluy nods. "Is there anything you can do if it gets worse, Usagi?" Viluy ventures out.
[10:53] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "Short of Chibi Usa's help, I doubt it," she says sadly. "My healing magic didn't seem to have any effect on it at all."
[10:55] <Rei-chan> "She'll ride it out on her own. It might not be fun, but she'll be okay in a while so long as she gets plenty of rest and proper food."
[10:55] <Princess_Herb> "Rei-chan's story worked the best of all of us," Herb suggests.
[10:57] <Haruka> "The mysterious powers of a dedicated miko was at work," Haruka jokes, shooting Rei a grin.
[10:57] <Anastasia> The old maid comes up during this, "Did it? Miss Rei," she asks Rei carefully, "Even with her Dad's lunchtime visit, she's been asking for him and you all day."
[10:58] * Usagi-chan smiles a bit at that. "I'm not surprised... I'd want my family around if I was feeling sick too."
[10:59] * Rei-chan nods. "I just read a random chapter from one of her books. I'm not even sure what it was about," she admits, a bit embarrassed. "It just gave her something soothing to focus on so she could drift off to sleep, I think."
[11:00] <Anastasia> She nods. "Since her father isn't able to be with her today because of that conference, could you stay with her until he gets home, Miss Rei? I know it's a inposition, but I think Hotaru would like that."
[11:01] * Rei-chan smiles. "Considering how hard she works at the Shrine, I suppose it is the least I can do. I don't mind," she nods. "She's sleeping, but I can be here in case she wakes up."
[11:02] <Haruka> "I never got anywhere near this much attention whenever I got sick," Haruka comments with a slight pout. "I'm feeling kind of jealous..."
[11:03] * Usagi-chan giggles. "I'll bring you some soup the next time it happens - how's that, Haruka?" Usagi says with a wink.
[11:03] <Anastasia> Smiling a bit at that, "I'll baby you the next time you get sick, Haruka," Viluy says, teasing the girl just a bit.
[11:03] <Rei-chan> "And now you're all popular," Rei teases.
[11:03] <Haruka> "Promises, promises," Haruka replies with a chuckle.
[11:06] * Usagi-chan giggles. "You want me to stay with you, Rei-chan? I don't have anything to do this afternoon, so I could keep you company while you're waiting - if you want."
[11:07] <Anastasia> Thinking a bit, "I wouldn't mind staying as well," Viluy speaks up, "If Haruka doesn't mind staying as well... I feel bad for Hotaru, being sick and alone."
[11:07] <Rei-chan> "If you like," Rei nods. "Won't be very exciting with her asleep, though - we'll have to be really quiet."
[11:08] * Haruka shrugs at Viluy's suggestion. "If it's not an incovenience," she says, looking at the maid at that.
[11:10] <Princess_Herb> "Well, while you girls stay here, I'm going to go down to the store and see if I can find a plushie with healing powers for Hotaru-chan." Herb says. "Or failing that, a cute one."
[11:11] * Princess_Herb has an idea.
[11:13] * Princess_Herb bows to the collected senshi and the maid, and heads off.
[11:14] <Anastasia> The maid shakes her head. "I'll set out more places for dinner," she smiles.
[11:14] <Usagi-chan> "Sorry to impose like this," Usagi says apologetically.
[11:14] <Anastasia> "It's fine," she smiles warmly. "Hotaru won't be so lonely with this many guests here."
[11:15] <Rei-chan> Nodding, Rei quietly pushes the door open and heads into Hotaru's room, making herself comfortable by the bedside to watch over the sickly little girl.
[11:16] <Anastasia> Following after getting a new mask, Viluy goes in ahead.
[11:17] * Usagi-chan follows Viluy's example, taking another mask before settling in near Rei.
[11:17] * Haruka hangs around outside the door for the time being as the others enter.
[11:21] <Anastasia> About a half hour passes, Haruka coming in and out of the room while the others kill time and watch over the girl. It's during one of Haruka's trips outside that she runs into Professor Tomoe - his white lab coat gone, down to just a dress shirt and slacks, tie undone. Nodding to you as he passes, "Are the rest still visiting with Hotaru?"
[11:22] * Haruka nods in reply. "Hotaru is sleeping right now," she tells him. "She got a healthy dose of storybook time from Rei."
[11:23] <Anastasia> Pausing as he reaches for a mask, "Ah..." he murmurs. "Hotaru loves hearing stories before bed, even now."
[11:25] * Haruka smiles at that. The mental image was cute on a cavity-inducing level, but it seems to match Hotaru in her mind. "Hopefully she recovers quickly," she comments.
[11:26] <Anastasia> "I hope so, as well," he says, strapping the mask on. "If not..." he trails off, banishing thoughts he'd rather not ponder, doing so by entering inside of the sleeping girl's room.
[11:27] * Haruka sports a puzzled frown at the implication of that last part, but stows it away mentally for the time being.
[11:28] <Anastasia> Coming in, he looks shortly at Hotaru, then the girls. "How has she been," he asks simply, getting to the chase.
[11:28] <Rei-chan> "She's been sleeping peacefully," Rei replies quietly. "She seemed pretty out of it when she was awake."
[11:30] <Anastasia> "And her fever," he asks, going over to feel her forehead himself, frowning and then extracting a thermometer from the bedstand drawer.
[11:31] <Rei-chan> "She was burning up, earlier," Rei says unnecessarily as he works with the thermometer.
[11:31] <Usagi-chan> "Still seems really high," Usagi says with a frown. "I tried healing her, but it didn't seem to have much of effect."
[11:32] <Anastasia> Tomoe frowns at that, setting up the instrument in his daughter's mouth. "I was going to suggest that... but your magic seems to have limited effect on her."
[11:33] <Rei-chan> "Just have to let it work through her system naturally, I suppose," Rei sighs quietly.
[11:34] <Usagi-chan> "I think part of it is that I just don't know what to have it DO. With a cut, I know what it has to fix - but I don't know enough about this to really help it any."
[11:35] <Anastasia> "The actual infection is all over her body and bloodstream," he says briefly, checking her temperature. "103," he frowns even more, wiping it off with a kleenex.
[11:36] * Usagi-chan nods. "And I don't know what to do to make it go away. It's not like with a cut or a burn where I know the difference between the way it is now and the way it's supposed to be."
[11:38] <Anastasia> "A limitation of technique," he comments idly. "It took her two weeks to get over the flu the last time she had it, and that was with Germatou and Mistress 9 interfering." Frowning, "Perhaps we can find a way to do something about that."
[11:39] <Usagi-chan> "If you can tell me what I need to do, just let me know - I'd love to help her get over this quicker if I can," Usagi replies.
[11:42] <Anastasia> "After dinner, perhaps," he says after a pause. "I need to consider how best to approach the problem." At that, he stands. "Speaking of such, dinner is the least I can offer for your troubles."
[11:43] * Usagi-chan smiles. "Thanks for the offer, but it's really not any trouble at all."
[11:46] <Anastasia> "It's not any trouble from my end, and I'd like to offer it to you all." At that, he rises. "If you wish... dinner will be served in a few minutes."
[11:46] <Rei-chan> "Thank you," Rei nods gratefully.
(scene unfinished)
[11:11] <Anastasia> ---
[11:15] <Anastasia> Fall sets in early this year - by mid October, it's 60ish degrees and cool as a high, with chilly nights. The leaves are falling early, though not like it matters in the Witches office, with it being underground. To your pleasant surprise, you find Viluy there, actually fiddling with a computer for once.
[11:17] <Anastasia> "Hi, Haruka," she says, semi-absently, as she messes with an opened-up computer tower, her hair half falling in front of her face as she leans over.
[11:18] * Haruka approaches from behind, peeking over Viluy's shoulder. "This is a rare sight, of late," Haruka comments with a grin.
[11:20] <Anastasia> "I know," she smiles warmly. "I haven't felt much like it lately, but one of my hard drives gave out." With a small grimace, she stands, shaking her hair back. "I feel more like having my nails done than doing my computers right..." she trails off, with a small scrunchy not-smile/not-frown. "Anyway," she picks up a moment later, not really wanting to wallow in that, "I was waiting for you. Do you have plans for the day?"
[11:23] * Haruka plops down in a vacant seat before answering. "No, nothing that I can think of anyway," she replies. "Why, something up?" Haruka asks with a curious tilt of her head.
[11:25] <Anastasia> Smiling now and gazing at you with her head half cocked, causing a bit of hair to fall, "I thought we could spend some time together this afternoon, since the weather is so nice."
[11:27] <Haruka> "Yeah, sure," Haruka answers back casually, leaning forward now in interest. "Anywhere in particular?"
[11:31] <Anastasia> "They're starting to sell warm chestnuts," she smiles, peering at you. "This little shop down in Juuban." Not saying anything else, though her gaze tells you quite a bit.
[11:34] * Haruka smiles and nods at that. "We'll head off whenever you're ready," she tells Viluy.
[11:38] <Anastasia> Nodding, "Right, just let me get this back together." With that, she heads back to her computer for a spell...
[11:38] <Anastasia> ---
[11:39] <Anastasia> Roughly an hour later, the two of you are in Haruka's car. Driving in the breezy, cool weather is refreshing after a day indoors, the smell of turning over leaves and a land ready to sleep again tinging the air. With Viluy's directions, it's not a long trip to the place in question - a tiny eatery, Ayamaya-Ps. Simple glass window with a few tables inside... nothing special.
[11:42] <Anastasia> With checkerboard white and red tablecloths and wooden seats, it evokes a feeling of a grandmother's kitchen... Smiling even as she gazes at it, "Come on, Haruka," Viluy takes your hand without pause today, a strangely eager smile on her face.
[11:45] * Haruka is caught off-guard by this, but allows herself to be led nonetheless. She wonders slightly though at the shift from 'norm' for Viluy... Haruka says nothing, but keeps it in mind for now.
[11:48] <Anastasia> The inside is warm and bright, a few waitresses about. Garbed in white aprons and blue calf length dresses with white and blue ribbons, "Hi," the oldest waitress, no more than 20 or so, greets you. "Welcome to Ayamaya-P... Viluy?" the girl smiles, coming forward to lay a hand on the girl's shoulder before hugging her. "You need to keep in touch, Viluy-chan! I haven't seen you in nearly a year!"
[11:47] <Anastasia> "I've been busy, Sadoka," she hugs her back lightly, but detangling quickly. "Lots of homework these days." With her own warm smile, "This is Sadoka, a childhood friend. Sadoka," she nods at Haruka, "This is Haruka Tenoh."
[11:48] * Haruka smiles, extending a hand to Viluy's friend in greeting. "A pleasure to meet you," she says.
[11:49] <Anastasia> Nodding and smiling, "But what did you do with your hair, Viluy," she frowns, nabbing a hanging strand of it. "You have such pretty white hair, and you did THAT to it?"
[11:50] <Anastasia> Blushing slightly, "Don't worry about it... it's a long story, Sadoka." Brushing that aside, "Anyway, this is Haruka," she repeats, the other girl blinking.
[11:51] <Anastasia> "Oh, I'm sorry," she nods, bowing to Haruka. "I was just distracted by that mess Viluy-chan made of her har."
[11:52] <Haruka> "Don't worry about it," Haruka manages to get out, waving her apology off, though the snub did hurt her ego some...
[11:53] <Anastasia> With a winsome smile now, "Right. A table for two," she asks, taking out a writing pad and scribbling on it. "Here for your favorite, I'm guessing... and what do you want, Haruka?"
[11:53] <Anastasia> "With apple cider, if you've imported any yet," Viluy nods to that, which gets a small nod back from the other girl.
[11:55] * Haruka goes for something fairly light, and order a sandwich from the menu.
[11:56] <Anastasia> With that taken care of, you are taken to the window table. Nice view of Juuban, with a hint of leaves being blown in the breeze. "I'll be back with your food in a few," she notes. "Though... it's slow today, so it shouldn't be long." In fact, you're the only customers at the moment.
[11:57] <Anastasia> Smiling once more as Sadoka leaves, "Heh, Sadoka seems to like you," Viluy notes, turning to face you.
[11:58] * Haruka blinks at that with a puzzled look painting her feature. "Really? I didn't get that impression at all," she admits with a chuckle.
[11:59] <Anastasia> "She does," Viluy insists, folding her hands together. "She's a good friend, and... I don't have too many of those, so could you two make sure to get along," she asks, firmly, yet with a slight undercurrent of... something.
[12:04] <Haruka> "If madam so wishes," Haruka replies with aplomb, trying to inwardly examine what these 'hints' that she keeps picking up from Viluy might be about.
[12:05] <Anastasia> Grinning back at you, "Thanks. Sadoka... my Dad used to take me here all the time," she begins, turning her gaze out the window. "And Sadoka's mom runs the store and kept her around, so we became friends."
[12:06] * Haruka nods, allowing Viluy to continue.
[12:08] <Anastasia> "Makes sense, since this is one of the few things he could drag me out from messing with computers and hardware to do," Viluy does indeed go on, then stops. "Anyway," Turning the page like that, Viluy turns her attention back to you. "Thanks, Haruka." Leaning slightly, she reaches out and gives your hand a pat after a split-second delay.
[12:13] * Haruka smiles in reply, though on the inside the disappointment was clear at the ever present hesitancy on Viluy's part. Take the good with the bad, she tells herself. "It's nice to see the parts of your life I wasn't around for," she tells Viluy, taking in the sights of the restaurant.
[12:14] <Anastasia> "This is one of the big ones... there isn't much to see besides all the computers I've worked on." Voice firm, there is still a vague note to it. Something you can't pinpoint. "Between school and that, this is one of the few other things I ever did."
[12:18] * Haruka catches the 'hint' of something again and decides to push forward here. "Is there something you want to talk about?" Haruka asks reassuringly, giving her hand a squeeze. "I hear one thing, yet I get the feeling you want to tell me something else. I'm a good listener, if nothing else," she offers.
[12:24] <Anastasia> "I..." she smiles warmly at you, taking your hand strongly. "I guess. I don't have much of a childhood like this... and I guess I just want you to see what I do have."
[12:28] * Haruka smiles warmly in reply. "That you want to bring me closer, showing me your past and your friends, makes me happy," she tells her.
[12:29] <Anastasia> Leaning forward a bit, "I want to... and it makes me happy, too," she says quietly, eyes sparkling. "It's not much, but..." she leans forward, giving you a peck on the cheek. "It's good to be happy."
[12:32] * Haruka smiles again, something she's been doing a lot of lately. "Definitely," she concurs with Viluy's sentiments.
[12:33] <Anastasia> "Hey, you two," Sadoka calls, as she comes back up. Viluy blinks, blushing and drawing back at the attention. "One bowl of warm chestnuts and cider, and one sandwich and soda," she says, putting both down before getting a seat and sitting yourself. "Viluy-chan, are you and Haruka together," she asks with a nice smile, glancing between the two of you.
[12:34] <Anastasia> "Well..." she flounders just a moment, red faced. "Yeah..."
[12:35] * Haruka simply grins amusedly, letting the pair play this little scene out.
[12:35] <Anastasia> "Oooh, you got yourself someone special," she grins outright, clapping Viluy on the shoulder. "I was afraid you'd marry one of your computers at this rate, or build a cyber boyfriend!"
[12:36] <Anastasia> "Guh... SADOKA!" Viluy protests, blushing beet red now.
[12:37] <Anastasia> "I'm kidding, Viluy," she giggles, turning to Haruka. "You're treating Viluy right, aren't you?"
[12:41] <Haruka> "She deserves nothing less," Haruka replies with a nod. "And with a good friend watching out for her interest, I'm sure you'll help keep me in line, right?" Haruka grins at Sadoka.
[12:57] <Anastasia> "Damn right," Sadoka laughs, returning Haruka's nod. "I don't see any new jewelry on her fingers, though. Should do something about that... or maybe some earrings," she goes on, as Viluy just blushes.
[12:58] * Haruka hums at that, sharing a wide grin between Viluy and Sadoka. "Should I be taking notes?"
[12:59] <Anastasia> "Yes," Sadoka nods, as Viluy just blushes and plays with her drink. "Oh... what did Viluy want? She'd do good with diamond earrings and a pearl necklace from you, Haruka."
[13:03] <Haruka> "Hmm... I don't know," Haruka begins with a thoughtful look. "She was playing with a computer earlier so I'd be smart to make sure she's not cheating on me before I buy those," Haruka finishes, shooting Sadoka a cheeky grin at that.
[13:20] <Anastasia> "Haruka!" Viluy protests, as her friend is lost in her own laughing. Almost pouting, she turns to her drink, taking a good portion of it down.
[13:22] * Haruka takes a sip of her soda and casually ignores Viluy's outburst as she smiles innocently in reply. "Yes?"
[13:23] <Anastasia> "Hmmph," Viluy murmurs at that, cutely turning her head away. "Don't pout," Sadoka chides. "It's in good humor. Anyway..." she rises, "I should at least look like I'm doing some work."
[13:26] * Haruka chuckles at Viluy's reaction before turning her attention to Sadoka. "It was nice to be able to meet you. Maybe we can meet again when you're not on the clock," Haruka tells her.
[13:28] <Anastasia> "Sounds great," Sadoka grins. "The three of us can go out and hit the town... how about tomorrow night?" she offers, which would be a Friday.
[13:29] <Haruka> "Sounds fine to me," Haruka replies, glancing at Viluy at that.
[13:30] <Anastasia> Viluy nods once, recovering. "Sure," she nods. "We can meet at my house, since all three of us know where that is."
[13:33] <Haruka> "Sure," Haruka says. "We'll work out the time and stuff later, I'm guessing?"
[13:34] <Anastasia> Sadoka nods. "I'll call Viluy tonight for the gory details," she grins. "We'll have fun... and hopefully make it home under our own power!" With that and a final grin, she goes off, another pair of customers arriving.
[13:37] <Haruka> "Methinks she has a wild night in mind," Haruka points out to Viluy with a chuckle.
[13:41] <Anastasia> "I think so, too," Viluy chuckles. "She doesn't mean it like that, I think, as much as just to have a blast in general."
[13:44] * Haruka simply nods then begins on her sandwich. "As nice as it was chatting with Sadoka," she begins, "I'm enjoying spending quiet time alone with you more."
[13:46] <Anastasia> "Yeah," she nods in agreement, starting on her food. "Why don't we head back to my house after this?"
[13:48] * Haruka raises an eyebrow ever so slightly at that, but replies, "Sure, sounds like a plan."
[18:36] <Rei-chan> ------------
[18:38] <Rei-chan> One rather warm October evening after her dinner, Usagi decides to go visit Hikawa Shrine in order to spend some quality time with her girlfriend. Ascending the Shrine steps, she sees the Shrine is now rather quiet. No one is seen outside, although the lights are on inside the house. (soul check +2 to notice something)
[18:38] <Usagi-chan> roll 2d6+2
[18:38] * Hatbot --> "Usagi-chan rolls 2d6+2 and gets 11."
[18:39] <Rei-chan> Something does actually seem odd as you approach. Inside Rei's room... it's almost as if you can sense two of her...
[18:40] * Usagi-chan blinks in surprise, quickening her steps a little. Rather than bother with the front door, she knocks directly on the door leading from outside into Rei's room. "Rei-chan? Are you all right?"
[18:41] <Rei-chan> "Fine..." comes Rei's reply, sounding more than a little bit stressed and distracted at the moment.
[18:42] * Usagi-chan pushes the door open, looking more than a little worried.
[18:43] <Rei-chan> Inside you see the back of Rei, the miko sitting against the side of her bed in a relaxed posture. And then on the other side of the room you see a partially transparent Rei sitting in the same pose, although her eyes are clenched tightly shut and she seems to be focusing immensely on something.
[18:45] * Usagi-chan blinks, watching for a moment. It's clear that Rei is projecting herself astrally, but why to a place in the same room is a mystery. She stays quiet for the moment, not wanting to disrupt the miko's concentration any further than she already has.
[18:47] <Rei-chan> Letting out a loud sigh after a few moments, the astral Rei vanishes, her physical counterpart picking herself up rather groggily. "Hey, Usagi," she greets you, sounding rather dispirited.
[18:47] <Usagi-chan> "What's up?" Usagi asks, frowning just a bit.
[18:48] * Rei-chan sits down on the bed, patting it for Usagi to do the same. "I'm trying to figure out how to teleport, actually," she snorts. "You can guess how well I'm doing."
[18:49] * Usagi-chan does as requested, sitting down right next to Rei. "Not too well, from the look on your face. How are you trying to do it?"
[18:51] <Rei-chan> "Well," she begins, sighing, "I figure projecting myself like that gives me a leg up - if I can move my spirit elsewhere, it's just a matter of pulling my body along, right? But it's easier said than done..."
[18:53] <Usagi-chan> "You'd THINK so," Usagi agrees. "But I don't know enough about projecting yourself like that to really know if it helps or not. Any idea what the problem is that you're running into?"
[18:55] * Rei-chan shrugs. "I don't know, and it's driving me nuts. I mean, the Sailor Teleport is easy - I just think I want to be somewhere, and I am," she snaps her fingers. "But I can't do that by myself, and it's draining as heck unless we have a big group of us." She frowns slightly, "As to the other way I was able to teleport once, I understand that even less..."
[18:57] * Usagi-chan frowns slightly at that, but doesn't pursue the issue. "Well... I don't know if it'll help, but I can explain how *I* look at teleporting - maybe it'll make something click into place for you?"
[18:58] <Rei-chan> "Couldn't hurt," Rei agrees, nodding. "I tried asking Ann, but she was no help at all. Seems like it's just as easy for her as the Sailor Teleport is for us."
[19:00] <Usagi-chan> "Well, try thinking about it this way. You've got your telekinesis, right? Think about opening a locked door with it - I know you've done that more than a few times. All you do is move the lock around and you can open the door, right?" Usagi says, giving Rei a questioning look.
[19:00] <Rei-chan> "Uh huh," Rei nods, waiting for Usagi to go on.
[19:02] <Usagi-chan> "But if you were strong enough with it, you COULD just break the door down completely. The way I look at teleporting is like that. Something like the Sailor Teleport is breaking the door down - you use a lot of power and FORCE the effect you want. Something like what I do with my spell, and probably what Ann does, is like opening the lock - it's just a tiny little trick that's a small part of the whole thing,
[19:02] <Usagi-chan> but once you figure it out, the whole thing just falls into place."
[19:03] * Rei-chan smiles mirthlessly, "Figuring out that trick is a real hurdle, though."
[19:07] * Usagi-chan nods, a wry smile on her face. "That's the hard part, yeah. I THINK I can explain what the magic is doing when I teleport - maybe that'll help. For me, it's like unraveling a sweater, except you're unraveling your shape. What the magic does is find the end of the yarn and give it a pull so it starts unraveling, and then helps to make sure everything gets put back together right on the other end when you arrive."
[19:08] * Rei-chan nods slowly, digesting that. "Hmm... unravelling, eh?" She bites her lip, looking thoughtful.
[19:09] * Usagi-chan nods. "You have to take apart everything you're teleporting with you - including your body - or else you'd just be duplicating yourself somewhere else, not teleporting."
[19:12] <Rei-chan> "Well, I've just been trying to... well, pull my whole body as whole..." Rei replies. "Maybe that's the problem, though - trying to yank it all at once is maybe too much for me?"
[19:14] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah, I don't expect that would work too well. If it works the way I think it will for you, try to pull just a small part of yourself - like your hair, since that won't be any real problem if you mess up - and pull just that little part. If it does what I think, it'll stay connected to you and just pull the rest of your body along with it."
[19:15] <Rei-chan> "And that's how your spell works?" Rei confirms.
[19:16] * Usagi-chan nods. "What it does is set everything up and sort of kicks things into gear - the actual teleport is almost automatic, it just pulls where I'm going out of my mind."
[19:17] <Rei-chan> "Hmm... I doubt I'll be able to do it exactly the same as you - those spells of yours are just so different from anything I can do. But it's something to think about..." Rei says contemplatively, drawing her legs up onto the mattress.
[19:19] * Usagi-chan nods. "It MIGHT use the same basic process. I've never really studied Ann or the Twins' teleporting, but I wouldn't be surprised if it works the same way mine does and we all just start off the process in a different way."
[19:20] <Rei-chan> "I think I'll give it another try before I call it a day," Rei decides, closing her eyes as she visibly relaxes.
[19:21] * Usagi-chan moves back to give Rei a little more room. "Good luck, Rei-chan," she says with a smile.
[19:23] <Rei-chan> Rei nods slightly before her body slumps, the astral miko appearing crosslegged on the other side of the room, her eyes tightly shut in concentration. To Usagi's eyes, Rei's spiritual aura is at about half its usual intensity surrounding both her body and her astral form, although the astral form is slowly building as the body weakens...
[19:24] * Usagi-chan crosses her fingers, silently willing her encouragement towards the miko - she doesn't want to break Rei's concentration by speaking.
[19:28] <Rei-chan> It happens with so little fanfare that you'd almost miss it, if not for Rei's pained yelp - her astral form having been hovering a foot off the floor. While her clothes on the bed suddenly collapse without a body to hold them up, the quite naked miko rolls on the floor, rubbing her bottom and her stomach as she moans piteously. She looks rather pale and queasy, you'd note if you happened to pay attention to any details beyond the nudity.
[19:30] * Usagi-chan blinks in surprise, not having expected it to snap into place quite so quickly. She turns her head, looking between the pile of clothes on the bed and the quite naked (and more than a little distracting) form of Rei on the other side of the room. "You did it!"
[19:31] <Rei-chan> Rei's only response is to empty the contents of her stomach on her nice carpet.
[19:32] * Usagi-chan is rather dismayed by that, quickly jumping off the bed and going to Rei's side. "Rei, are you all right?" she says worriedly.
[19:34] <Rei-chan> "Unh..." Rei groans, her eyes glazed and unfocused. Shivering a good amount, she curls herself up, knees held over her stomach with arms wrapped protectively over them.
[19:35] * Usagi-chan kneels down next to Rei, wrapping her arms around the miko as she tries to comfort her love. "Are you all right?" she repeats more quietly.
[19:37] <Rei-chan> "No..." Rei manages weakly, her eyes clearing a bit before she closes them in pain. "I feel ill..."
[19:38] * Usagi-chan hugs the dark-haired girl tightly, rocking her back and forth. "Just take a minute or two, I bet it'll go away soon," she says soothingly.
[19:39] <Rei-chan> Rei's shivering ceases after a few minutes of your soothing treatment, her form relaxing somewhat. "Urgh..." she groans. "It gets easier, right?"
[19:40] <Usagi-chan> "I expect it would," Usagi says, not really sure. "Might just be something you have to get used to." Mentioning the fact that she can't ever remember having gone through teleport sickness wouldn't be a good idea right now, she surmises.
[19:41] <Rei-chan> "I hope so," the miko mumbles, straightening up. Blinking a moment... "Where are my clothes?"
[19:42] <Usagi-chan> "Over on the bed," Usagi replies with a slight smile. "I think I forgot to mention that you have to set up an area in your mind that you're teleporting, or you won't get anything to go with you. Including clothes."
[19:44] * Rei-chan sighs. "At least I'm doing this in the privacy of my own home..." Standing up on wobbly legs, she goes over to begin dressing, only managing to get her underwear on before a dizzy spell forces her to sit down rather rapidly. "Oooh..." she holds her head. "This is going to be really inconvenient if I can't get used to it..."
[19:46] * Usagi-chan goes over to sit down next to Rei on the bed, caressing the other girl's back gently. "Well, just take your time getting used to it," she says. "There's no real hurry."
[19:47] * Rei-chan nods as she slides her skirt on, lifting her bottom up off the bed for a second. "At least the hardest part's over with," she agrees.
[19:48] * Usagi-chan nods. "I was really surprised - I didn't expect it to catch for you quite so fast."
[19:51] <Rei-chan> "Well, I have teleported on my own before. I think I just needed a trigger to make it fall into place..." she frowns, working her blouse on. "I've never got sick like that before, so I must have done something wrong, though..." Glancing over at the puddle of vomit, she gains an expression of distaste. "Better go wash my mouth and get the carpet shampoo..."
[19:52] <Usagi-chan> "You take care of yourself, I can get the carpet," Usagi offers, although she too can't hide an expression of distaste at the mess on the floor. "You still look a little shaky after that."
[19:54] * Rei-chan shakes her head. "It's my mess. I'll get it." Standing up, she goes to leave the room, heading for the bathroom to clean herself up a bit before stopping by the closet for carpet cleaning supplies.
[19:55] * Usagi-chan simply sighs, letting Rei go. As the miko returns with the cleaning supplies, "Are you sure you don't want any help with that?"
[19:57] <Rei-chan> Kneeling down as she gets to work, Rei shakes her head. "It's my mess. It's only fair that I take care of it."
[19:58] <Usagi-chan> "I KNOW it's your mess. That doesn't mean I can't offer to help clean it up - I mean, it's not like you're making me do it," Usagi replies, getting off the bed as she goes over to where Rei works.
[20:02] <Rei-chan> Looks like Rei had plenty of vegetables for dinner. The miko has just finished clearing up the more solid matter as she begins liberally applying carpet cleaner to the stained area. "It's not that big a deal, Usagi. I have to clean up vomit a couple of times a week, here." She frowns a bit sourly, "Of course, it's a lot easier to get off the flagstones than it is from my bedroom carpet..."
[20:04] * Usagi-chan shakes her head. "You usually don't have to do it when YOU'RE the one that just threw up, either. But I'm not going to make a big deal about it - I just wanted to help."
[20:06] <Rei-chan> "I don't throw up often," Rei sighs, looking a bit embarrassed as she leaves the foam to work its magic on the carpet and leaves the room with her cleaning supplies, returning a moment later. "I think I'll give practicing a miss until tomorrow," she remarks, blushing.
[20:07] * Usagi-chan smiles wryly. "Probably a good idea - but I'd say you did really well for your first try. Feeling better now?"
[20:08] * Rei-chan nods, going to sit down on the bed. "I felt like I'd been put through a blender, there. But I'm okay, now."
[20:10] * Usagi-chan walks around the bed, taking a seat behind the miko. She sits crosslegged, facing Rei as she begins to massage the miko's shoulders. "Well, I'm glad to hear it," she says with a smile. "I was just kind of surprised to see you trying to do it on your own."
[20:13] <Rei-chan> "Well, being able to teleport IS an incredibly handy skill," Rei points out. "I've been trying to figure out how I could do it for quite a while, now."
[20:14] * Usagi-chan grins. "Well, it definitely comes in handy when I'm running late for school," she admits. "I just teleport from home into the office and go."
[20:16] <Rei-chan> "There is that," Rei nods, "But I was more thinking of using it to get places I can't normally get by walking." She smirks a bit, "Not to mention it can be really handy in a fight." Her expression falls, there, "Provided I don't wind up puking my guts up, that is..." she sighs.
[20:18] <Usagi-chan> "I've never really thought about using it in a fight," Usagi says thoughtfully. "Although I don't think mine would be much good - I've got it down to about as fast as I can get it to go for now, and even at that battles just move too fast for me to really use it." She gives Rei a small smile. "You could probably use it more often on Earth than I do, actually."
[20:20] <Rei-chan> "Not much time to chant a spell during a fight," Rei agrees, "But if I can get this figured out and do it on reflex," she snaps her fingers, "Well... it's pretty hard to fight someone if you can never tell which direction they'll come from next." 'And it means I can get away in a hurry if things go badly...' she thinks in the back of her mind, but most certainly doesn't acknowledge out loud.
[20:22] * Usagi-chan nods, more to the unspoken point than to the verbal one. "I just wish I could project myself the way you can - it would be REALLY handy for teleporting places. I could actually see where I'm going to end up before I get there."
[20:25] <Rei-chan> "It is handy," Rei agrees, "I don't project myself unless I'm safe at home, though." She shivers, "Always makes me feel nervous to leave my body unattended like that."
[20:26] <Usagi-chan> "Do you actually feel like you're at two places at once when you do that?" Usagi says curiously. "Or do you just notice things from where your spirit is?"
[20:28] <Rei-chan> "Only my spirit," Rei confirms. "Phobos and Deimos have tried to get my attention a few times while I've been projected elsewhere, and nothing at all works."
[20:32] * Usagi-chan shakes her head, smiling as she slips her arms around the miko's waist. "At least it's not something you NEED to do all that often," the blonde replies. "I have to admit, I get jealous sometimes - you can do a lot of stuff that I can't figure out at all."
[20:34] * Rei-chan snorts lightly, leaning into Usagi. "That works both ways. I'm left pretty far behind by a lot of your magic." 'At least I've narrowed the gap a little, today...'
[20:36] <Usagi-chan> "I heard that," Usagi says with a grin, giving Rei a playful swat on the stomach. "Guess I'll have to keep working on MY end too - can't let you get caught up to me, can I?" she says with a giggle.
[20:38] * Rei-chan has the good grace to look a little embarrassed. "Eheh," she chuckles lamely. "I just don't want to be left too far behind, is all."
[20:42] <Usagi-chan> "You won't be," Usagi says with a smile. "I'll help you keep up, if I can. The Professor's really helped me out a lot lately - he's given me a few books on magic to study, and it's helping me a lot."
[20:43] <Rei-chan> "I just don't have any aptitude for your kind of magic, it seems," Rei notes. "But I don't mind - my own skills serve me well enough."
[20:45] <Usagi-chan> "I guess so," Usagi says with a small sigh. "I just wish I could share some of it with you. You know me - I usually hate studying. But for some reason, learning about magic is really a lot of fun - almost exciting in a way."
[20:46] <Rei-chan> "The practical benefits are a lot more obvious than with math," Rei notes with a teasing smile.
[20:48] * Usagi-chan giggles. "That's for sure. And it's a lot more fun to try to work out how to make a new spell work than it is to dissect a frog," Usagi says, making a face. "It can be kind of frustrating sometimes, but it's a really cool feeling to have been working on something for a month and finally get it right."
[20:49] <Rei-chan> "Except when it makes you throw up," Rei adds with a grimace. "Ah, who am I kidding?" she grins, "It's worth it, anyway."
[20:50] <Usagi-chan> "That's what you call a slight drawback," Usagi says with a grin. "But you can even work those out fairly quickly, once you have the basic idea down right."
[20:51] <Rei-chan> "I hope it's just a matter of fine-tuning or getting used to it," Rei sighs. "I'd hate to only be able to teleport on an empty stomach."
[20:52] <Usagi-chan> "It probably will be," Usagi says encouragingly. "I've... well, let's just say I've been working on a project of my own recently, and I JUST managed to get the last of the bugs out of it the other day."
[20:52] <Rei-chan> "Oh?" Rei looks interested.
[20:53] * Usagi-chan grins. "I'm not telling you what it is yet, though. You'll find out," she says secretively.

[09:33] <Rei-chan> --------
[09:35] <Halbarad> The senshi gather for Motoki's wedding... Ed.
[09:36] <Anastasia> The kicker is getting to miss a Saturday's worth of schooling, you find. Getting ready early and gathering at Usagi's for a carpool, the talk soon coming to one subject in the living room of Usagi's house - Makoto's baby, and how it is living with someone like Alan...
[09:38] <Anastasia> Coming over to the sitting Makoto, "Congratulations, Makoto dear," Ikkuko smiles. "I heard from Usagi about your uncoming bundle of joy."
[09:40] * Makoto blushes. "Uhm, thanks Mrs Tsukino..." Makoto says quietly, a bit unused to so much attention.
[09:41] <Usagi-chan> "So what's it like?" Usagi asks with some interest.
[09:41] <Anastasia> Smiling, "Here," she says coming over and taking an ottoman. "You should put your feet up," she says, putting it down next to Makoto.
[09:42] <Makoto> "You mean outside of the morning sickness?" Makoto says with a face. "Not much different right now, to be honest. It's nice to be showered with attention though, especially by Alan."
[09:43] <Makoto> "Thanks, Mrs Tsukino," Makoto replies even if she didn't really think she needed the ottoman.
[09:43] <Rei-chan> "How's living with him been?" Rei asks. "He helps around the apartment, right?"
[09:44] <Anastasia> "Let me get you some milk and tea," she nods. "And make sure to take it slow and careful at the wedding today. You don't want to wear out your baby, Makoto."
[09:45] <Makoto> "He tries, though at the moment, I prefer to clean up myself," Makoto answers Rei. "Ami's mom says it's okay for now, but eventually I'll have to slow down."
[09:46] <Usagi-chan> "Just don't push yourself too hard - you can always call us to help out if you need it," Usagi replies.
[09:46] * Makoto nods to the blonde's mother. "I know, I'll watch what I do as things go along. I'm not really trying to do anything strenous at the moment."
[09:46] * Rei-chan nods. "Yeah. You don't want to push too hard, but just sitting around and doing nothing is no fun at all."
[09:49] <Anastasia> "That's true," Ikkuko answers, coming back with tea and milk. "It's harder, especially when the baby starts kicking." Glancing at Usagi as she hands Makoto the goods, "If you have a baby as strong as Usagi, you'll wear out your stomach by the time it's done."
[09:49] * Usagi-chan giggles. "Was I THAT bad?"
[09:49] * Makoto raises an eyebrow at the thought of Usagi and strength together. "Usagi? A strong baby?"
[09:50] <Anastasia> "You did kick a lot, Usagi-chan," Ikkuko smiles at her daughter. "Always when I got hungry, too."
[09:50] <Makoto> "Ah, the healthy appetite, now -that- I can imagine," Makoto says.
[09:50] <Makoto> "If the baby takes after Alan in that respect, I'll probably get a few of those too then," Makoto grumbles.
[09:51] <Rei-chan> "Have you given any thought to names yet?" Rei asks, leaning forward with interest.
[09:53] * Ami-chan sits quietly, smiling as she pays half attention to the conversation, smiling every so often, but not contributing anything for now.
[09:55] * Makoto nods. "I haven't really talked with Alan, he might have some other thoughts, but I was hoping for Sakura if it was a girl, or Seijuurou if it was a boy."
[09:55] <Rei-chan> "They're both good names," Rei nods her approval.
[09:56] * Usagi-chan nods in agreement. "Do you know when you'll find out whether it's a boy or a girl, or are you waiting until the baby's born?"
[09:58] * Makoto frowns a bit in thought. "I'm... not really sure," she replies honestly. "I hadn't thought about asking for the baby's sex or anything until you mentioned it. I suppose I could, but I dunno right now."
[09:58] <Anastasia> "You should wait, Makoto," Ikkuko speaks up again. "It's part of the experience to find out as you hold him or her in your arms." Smiling in memory, she sits as well.
[10:00] <Makoto> "I'll talk to Alan about it, but I'll keep that in mind."
[10:05] <Anastasia> After the light chit-chat, and a ride out, you find something you didn't expect. The wedding is being held at a newly opened cathedral, based on a small island in Tokyo Bay. Called the Marine Cathedral for this, it's new and shiny and very nice indeed. Reika's parents sure have money, it looks like...
[10:07] * Serenity steps out of the car, clad in her now-familiar white royal gown. An illusion conceals the gossamer wings on her back and the crescent marking on her forehead, but other than those minor differences, she appears as she always does as the Queen of the Moon Kingdom.
[10:09] <Rei-chan> Dressed in an elegant floor length dress of vibrant scarlet, with a lighter shade of red straight down her front before it becomes lost in the folds near her calves, Rei steps out after Usagi. In addition to the dress of her Silver Millenium days, she wears the phoenix pendant Usagi got her last Christmas, and a red choker.
[10:14] <Ami-chan> Ami slips out after the others, dressed in a simple gown, a shimmery midnight blue fabric, trimmed in black with thin spaghetti straps slipping over her shoulders, and an onyx pendant, with matching earrings that Artemis and Luna had presented to her on her birthday.
[10:15] <Makoto> Stepping out as well, holding onto the hem of her lime green dress, Makoto's most noticeable change is that her hair is down, with a vibrant green hairpiece keeping it down, as opposed to her usual ponytail. The dress is simple and just loose enough to not show off her beginning pregnancy. The only decorations she wears are an imitation emerald pendant hanging from a small choker, and her standard clip-on rose earrings.
[10:19] <Anastasia> In a simple child's dress of pale pink with straps and with clip-on earrings and a plain necklace, Chibi Usa steps out with her mother, looking around at the gathering of cars and exiting people.
[10:21] <Anastasia> The crowd is led inside, at least a couple of hundred people. The ladies are pretty and dripping with jewelry, the men plain yet dashing in suits and tuxedos. Between that and the general assortment of cars, it indeed does seem to be an upper class affair. As you walk into to be seated, you can see your group is getting a fair deal of attention...
[10:22] * Serenity is a bit surprised that they'd be gathering much attention at all, given the generally high-class affair that this is turning out to be.
[10:23] * Rei-chan isn't surprised, knowing that they do look fabulous, after all. She takes in the attention with good grace, continuing on to their seats on the groom's side.
[10:25] <Anastasia> Nonetheless, you are lead into the main hall of the Cathedral. A huge, spacious hall, with a large organ behind a oaken altar, pews arranged with statues of angels lining the walls. The edges of the floor are strangely sunken, filled with tangy sea water to give this place a strange, oceanic smell...
[10:26] <Serenity> "Where are we supposed to sit?" Usagi whispers to Rei. "I've never been to something like this before."
[10:26] * Ami-chan raises an eyebrow as she looks down, but smiles slightly, approving of the ambiance, and looks for the usher.
[10:26] <Anastasia> There are a few black suited men herding the people along, looking like nothing more than butlers of a sort.
[10:27] <Rei-chan> "Just follow the ushers," Rei replies quietly to Usagi, doing just that.
[10:27] * Serenity nods, taking Chibi Usa's hand as she follows Rei's lead.
[10:28] * Makoto follows after them, staring a bit in awe at the beautiful cathedral. "Beautiful place, isn't it, Ami?" she asks her quiet friend.
[10:28] <Anastasia> Following along as you head to a middle row of pews, "Rei-chan," Hotaru's voice is heard from behind, the girl approaching in a velvet-like black dress, light and somehow brooding on her. Simple straps keep it up, the hem just below her knees and fading from cloth into ruffles...
[10:29] * Ami-chan nods, smiling back at Makoto. "Yes... it's more... comfortable than I expected."
[10:29] * Rei-chan turns to Hotaru and smiles. "Hi, Hotaru-chan. That's a really nice dress," she compliments her little sister.
[10:30] <Anastasia> "Thanks, Rei-chan," she smiles, blushing. "What are you doing here?"
[10:31] <Serenity> "Hi, Hotaru-chan," Usagi says with a smile. "I wasn't expecting to see you here today."
[10:31] <Rei-chan> "We're friends of Motoki and Reika," Rei supplies. "What about yourself?"
[10:31] <Makoto> "Heya Hotaru," Makoto greets with a nod as she continues to admire the place.
[10:32] <Anastasia> "They sent Dad an invitation," she explains, nodding ot Makoto as she goes on. "He said they invited everyone important and with money - the bride's parents are really rich or something."
[10:32] <Serenity> "Sure looks that way," Usagi agrees, looking around at the extravagant arrangements.
[10:33] * Rei-chan nods as well. "They're certainly going all out for this."
[10:34] <Anastasia> The girl nods again. "Dad didn't even want to come at first," she goes on, "But... I really wanted to wear this dress," she admits. "And... big sis taught me how much fun it can be meeting new people."
[10:35] * Serenity smiles. "It sure is a lot of fun - I'm glad you could make it, Hotaru-chan. Where are you and your dad sitting?"
[10:37] <Anastasia> "He's back talking to an old friend, I think," Hotaru replies, "And... I saw you, so I asked if I could sit with you. He said it was alright..."
[10:37] * Rei-chan nods. "You're welcome to join us - we'll be on the groom's side, since we've known Motoki longer."
[10:39] <Anastasia> "Thank you, Rei-chan," she says, falling in step with you. "Dad's been kinda busy lately," she admits, "With some new planning for the school. I haven't even seen him much since last Sunday."
[10:40] <Serenity> "Really? Has he said anything about it?" Usagi asks, giving Hotaru a rather puzzled look - it's the first she's heard of it.
[10:40] <Rei-chan> "New planning?" Rei raises an eyebrow. "Do you know what he has in mind?"
[10:41] <Anastasia> "No," she shakes her head. "I... he's been talking to his friends in colleges, and old working friends," Hotaru frowns a bit. "Whatever it is... he hasn't even wanted to tell me yet."
[10:42] <Rei-chan> "Maybe he's planning it as a surprise?" Rei offers. "I'm sure we'll find out soon enough, anyway."
[10:42] <Serenity> "Hmm... guess we'll have to ask him about it later then," Usagi says with a shrug, finding a pew that has enough space for the entire group on Motoki's side of the cathedral. "I think we can sit here," she offers.
[10:44] <Anastasia> AS the girls get seated, "He's interested in it, though, whatever it is," Hotaru goes on, sitting next to Rei and Makoto. "He's been staying up late with it."
[10:45] <Rei-chan> "Hmm..." Rei looks thoughtful. "Something for the school, and he's been talking to work friends... perhaps he's going to expand classes or something?"
[10:45] <Serenity> "I know the feeling," Usagi says with a wry smile - she's spent an inordinate amount of time working on the Palace at times. "I hope it's going well, whatever it is."
[10:47] <Anastasia> As you sit and chat, more and more people file in, a minister... (Rei notes him as the Cardinal of Tokyo, easily remembered due to her T*A background) filing in as well and going to the altar.
[10:47] * Ami-chan eyes the procession quietly, not chipping in as she suspects the proceedings are about to begin.
[10:47] <Rei-chan> "That's the Cardinal of Tokyo," Rei whispers to her companions, rather impressed although unsurprised with how the guest list has looked so far.
[10:48] <Serenity> "Wow," Usagi says, a bit impressed herself. "They really went all out for this, didn't they?" she whispers.
[10:48] * Rei-chan nods mutely in agreement.
[10:49] <Anastasia> Soon, the pews are full enough. From the organ behind the altar and cardinal, a suited player sits, beginning to play a haunting, lovely version of the wedding march...
[10:50] * Serenity smiles, settling back in her seat in silence as the proceedings begin.
[10:51] <Anastasia> Going quiet, Motoki soon comes out, dressed in a white tuxedo and with a single brilliantly red rose in his lapel. He walks to the altar, happy but clearly nervous...
[10:51] * Ami-chan watches the proceedings with mixed emotions, smiling a little at the tune, and a little wider as Motoki comes into view.
[10:53] <Serenity> 'He looks really nervous,' Usagi thinks to Rei with a small smile. 'I can't even imagine what he must be feeling like right now.'
[10:54] * Rei-chan smiles as Motoki takes his place at the altar, glancing back down the aisle to see if Reika is coming. 'I don't expect Motoki is used to this kind of big fuss,' she replies back to Usagi.
[10:56] * Serenity starts to play with something in her hand, still watching Motoki with a faint smile. 'I bet that's part of it - but I bet part of it is just that he's getting married, too.'
[10:57] <Rei-chan> 'No doubt,' Rei replies, still keeping an eye out for Reika.
[11:01] <Anastasia> Soon enough, the wedding march starts again - this time, the organ assissted by a unseen harp and supporting sounds, Reika comes out. In a pure white dress that glides down her body with a long train and dotted with shiny points of light - some sort of glassy material? - and with elbow length gloves and a veil, she slowly proceeds, an object of lovelyness. In her hands is a bouquet of red roses, with a single purple one in the center.
[11:02] * Serenity smiles broadly. 'She's beautiful,' she thinks, admiring Reika's beautiful dress.
[11:03] <Anastasia> "Wow," Hotaru breathes, staring. "She's... so pretty," the girl says to Rei, softly.
[11:05] * Ami-chan nods as she hears Hotaru's comment, smiling a little as she silently agrees.
[11:06] <Anastasia> Rei nods to Hotaru's comment, staring as well. Chibi Usa smiles widely at it, "Mommy... she's really pretty, like you are today."
[11:07] <Serenity> "She sure is, Chibi Usa," Usagi agrees. "And I'm glad you think I look nice," she whispers, smiling.
[11:09] <Anastasia> At a enticingly slow pace, Reika walks to the altar, rustling slightly as she passes. Her face is radiant from the little you can see past the veil, smiling despite all her efforts otherwise. On reaching the altar, the ceremony begins... the cardinal starting prepared remarks about marriage and so forth.
[11:11] * Serenity holds a finger to her lips for Chibi Usa before turning her attention back to the ceremony.
[11:12] <Anastasia> Settling in, Hotaru glances at Makoto, thinking... "Mako-chan," the girl whispers, just audible, "Aren't you and your boyfriend going to do the same thing soon?"
[11:13] * Makoto blushes at the question. "We plan to, Hotaru. We plan to. Just... not until we're a bit older," she whispers back.
[11:15] <Anastasia> Nodding, Hotaru turns back to the ceremony. It goes on for a bit, before it settles into the individual vows. Both are rather saccirine and romantic, Motoki promising to 'Give you a happy, full life and to love you forever...'
[11:16] * Rei-chan smiles sappily at the romantic lines.
[11:16] * Serenity smiles, trying not to cry - and only half succeeding.
[11:18] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa smiles, though a bit sadly, as this goes on. Finally, the 'I do's come, a brilliant diamond ring for the bride and a golden ring for the groom...
[11:19] * Serenity takes a deep breath, smiling past her tears as she watches.
[11:20] <Rei-chan> Rei's hand finds Usagi's as she watches intently, clasping their fingers together even as she keeps her full focus on the newlyweds.
[11:21] * Serenity gives Rei's hand a squeeze, dabbing at her eyes with a handkerchief.
[11:22] <Anastasia> With that, the two meet in a long and gentle kiss, a roar sounding composed of clappings and a few shouted congratulations...
[11:22] * Makoto smiles as she also stands up clapping.
[11:22] <Rei-chan> Standing up, Rei frees her hand so she can join in the applause showered on the happy couple.
[11:23] * Serenity does so as well, smiling as she joins in with the congratulations.
[11:23] * Ami-chan follows suit, clapping as she can't help but smile at the moment.
[11:24] <Anastasia> Hotaru stands, clapping lightly and sniffling, then coughing once, twice...
[11:24] * Rei-chan pauses her clapping to rub Hotaru's back, giving her little sister a slightly worried look.
[11:25] * Serenity also pauses for a moment, glancing over at Hotaru to make sure she's all right.
[11:25] <Anastasia> "I'm okay..." she manages, smiling a bit. Righting herself, she starts to clap again...
[11:25] <Rei-chan> "Just take it easy," Rei asks quietly, before resuming her own applause.
[11:26] * Serenity begins to clap again herself, keeping one eye on Hotaru as she congratulates the happy couple.
[11:27] <Anastasia> As the applause goes on, a happier tune is struck, the couple walking down the aisle now. The ladies all seem to be filing out... which means one thing...
[11:28] * Rei-chan gently nudges Usagi so they can join the rest all leaving.
[11:28] * Serenity nods quickly, taking Chibi Usa's hand before heading for the exit.
[11:29] <Anastasia> Reika and Motoki reach it first, standing it front of it as the crowd gathers in front of them. Taking off her veil, "It's time," she smiles broadly, holding her gathering of roses.
[11:29] * Rei-chan bounces slightly on her heels in anticipation, grinning herself.
[11:29] * Makoto joins the girls as well as she stands in her attempt to catch the bouquet.
[11:30] * Serenity grins, wondering whether she can manage to beat the crowd.
[11:30] * Ami-chan snickers softly at Rei's enthusiasm as she watches her friends jostle for position.
[11:31] <Anastasia> Hotaru stays back, quiet. Chibi Usa stays by Usagi, smiling all the while.
[11:31] <Anastasia> With a toss, the bouquet is thrown high! (OOC - Body checks, all.)
[11:31] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:31] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[11:31] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:31] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 6."
[11:31] <Serenity> roll 2d6 burning 50 EP
[11:31] * Hatbot --> "Serenity rolls 2d6 burning 50 EP and gets 4."
[11:32] <Makoto> roll 2d6 burning 10EP
[11:32] * Hatbot --> "Makoto rolls 2d6 burning 10EP and gets 7."
[11:32] <Ami-chan> roll 2d6
[11:32] * Hatbot --> "Ami-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 11."
[11:33] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6 burning 20 EP
[11:33] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 burning 20 EP and gets 7."
[11:33] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:33] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 9."
[11:34] <Anastasia> It flies up in an arc, coming down near the girls! You might get it! Leaning and reaching as it comes down...
[11:34] * Rei-chan lunges forward desperately for the prize!
[11:34] * Serenity jumps, trying to get to the bouquet first!
[11:35] * Ami-chan eyes the enthusastic contenders, and decides it might be safer to concede the trophy, backing off.
[11:35] * Makoto moves towards the bouquet as it flies, though she doesn't put too much effort, more careful about getting hit where it might hurt her unborn child.
[11:36] <Anastasia> Leaping up, Usagi just snatches it before it would land in Rei's hands, landing... right on Rei's foot, causing a yelp from the other girl as Serenity holds her prize!
[11:36] <Rei-chan> "Ow!" Rei yelps, hopping back, before recovering her poise and pouting jealously at Usagi.
[11:37] * Serenity blushes and giggles, clutching the bouquet protectively. "I got it!"
[11:37] <Anastasia> Amid a few calls of 'Congratulations!', Reika even glances over, as well as her husband. "Good catch, Usagi," he calls, smiling.
[11:37] <Makoto> "You can still catch its counterpart, Rei!" Makoto says with a giggle and a cheer, not really annoyed at not catching the bouquet. She knew she was going to get married eventually.
[11:38] * Ami-chan smothers a giggle at that, grinning at Rei.
[11:38] <Serenity> "Thanks, Motoki!" Usagi says with a grin, admiring her prize. 'Sorry about your foot, Rei-chan,' she thinks apologetically.
[11:39] <Rei-chan> "It's not the same," Rei pouts, even as her lips do twist into a smile at Usagi's expression as she holds the bouquet. 'Don't worry about it.'
[11:39] <Anastasia> "Okay," Reika calls, readying the second and final prize of the celebration! "Good luck," she calls, tossing it out! (OOC - Body check if you're gonna go for it.)
[11:41] <Rei-chan> roll 2d6
[11:41] * Hatbot --> "Rei-chan rolls 2d6 and gets 7."
[11:41] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:41] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 5."
[11:41] <Anastasia> roll 2d6
[11:41] * Hatbot --> "Anastasia rolls 2d6 and gets 8."
[11:43] <Anastasia> Perhaps fate is on your side today... as the garter comes straight away at Rei, almost without a struggle as she easily nabs it.
[11:44] * Rei-chan snatches the garter out of the air triumphantly. "Mine!"
[11:44] * Serenity giggles. "Good catch, Rei-chan!"
[11:45] <Anastasia> "Congratulations, sister," Hotaru smiles wanly.
[11:45] * Ami-chan giggles a little. "Poetic, in it's way, if unorthodox."
[11:46] <Makoto> "No kidding. I bet there's a lot of guys groaning in the crowd though," Makoto says with a grin.
[11:46] * Rei-chan twirls the garter around her finger before glancing at Usagi and blushing. 'Oh, my...'
[11:47] * Serenity blushes as she catches the look on Rei's face. '...are you going to...?'
[11:48] <Rei-chan> 'I don't know!' Rei's face becomes even more crimson, surreptitiously glancing around at the other guests.
[11:48] <Ami-chan> Ami eyes Rei. "They won't be groaning much longer..." Ami predicts with a slight smile.
[11:49] <Anastasia> Indeed, there is some attention on you two now. "Is she going to do it..." one man nearby wonders idly.
[11:49] * Serenity blushes a bit brighter. '...It's up to you, Rei-chan. I'll do it if you want to.'
[11:50] <Rei-chan> Coughing, Rei decides 'Why the hell not?' "Usagi?" she kneels down a bit by the blonde's leg.
[11:50] * Serenity nods shyly, raising one foot through the hem of her dress for Rei.
[11:51] <Rei-chan> Trying to control her blushing, Rei slips the garter around Usagi's foot and begins working its way up her leg, the miko's fingers trembling just a bit.
[11:52] * Ami-chan blushes. "Oh my..." she shakes her head, laughing softly. "We can't take them anywhere..."
[11:53] * Serenity practically glows red, both from the attention and from the feeling of Rei sliding her hands up her leg.
[11:53] <Anastasia> The crowd is indeed watching on...
[11:54] <Rei-chan> Rei's embarrassment gets worse at the commentary, rushing a bit as she hurries to get this over with. And incidentally lifting Usagi's dress a bit higher than she meant as she finishes putting the garter in place. 'Gah!' She hurriedly swats the material back down to cover everything and stands up with as much decorum as she can muster. "There you go," she offers in a small voice.
[11:54] <Serenity> "Thanks," Usagi says shyly, ducking her head a bit.
[11:56] <Anastasia> Once done staring, the crowd begins to move again. "The reception is down the hall on our right," Motoki annouces...
[11:56] * Serenity moves quickly, having had quite enough attention from the onlookers. "Sounds good to me!"
[11:57] * Rei-chan nods mutely, hurrying to follow the directions.
[11:57] * Ami-chan follows the pair, smiling faintly as they move toward the reception.
[11:59] <Anastasia> The reception hall is a converted large room, with a huge table and chairs. Looks to be a formal sit-down event, down to crystal wine/champagne glasses and beautiful real silverware.
[12:00] * Serenity is quite amazed at the lavish arrangements. "Wow..." she says, her embarrassment forgotten as she takes in the room.
[12:00] <Anastasia> Chandeliers have been added, shedding light filtered by glass arrangements decorating them. It gives the entire room a warm glow, like a pleasant reading room.
[12:01] <Rei-chan> "This really is something..." Rei says in wonder, taking in the extravagant but tasteful decor.
[12:01] <Anastasia> "It's reminding me of the Crystal Palace," Chibi Usa says quietly to her mother. "It's really nice here."
[12:02] * Serenity nods. "Reminds me of some of the dinners back in the Silver Millenium," Usagi replies in much the same tone.
[12:03] * Ami-chan looks around, impressed, but feeling more out of place than she did in the cathedral itself. She walks behind the trio, keeping her hands to herself.
[12:04] <Anastasia> The same ushers as before are seating, high-backed darkwood chairs padded with soft cushions the seating. "Please, sit," the guide each of you, on the side of the groom, again.
[12:05] * Rei-chan does so gratefully. "This is almost too fancy for words..." she can't help but note, sinking into her chair.
[12:05] * Serenity nods, arranging her dress carefully as she takes her seat next to Rei. "Brings back a lot of memories," she says with a quiet smile.
[12:05] <Anastasia> Hotaru begins to sit... but is cut off halfway, as a spasm of coughs rack her, the girl holding onto her chair as she hacks away...
[12:06] <Makoto> "Hotaru, are you okay?" Makoto says as she stands up just after sitting, moving towards the young girl worriedly.
[12:06] * Ami-chan glances worriedly at the girl, this bout sounding worse than the last...
[12:06] * Rei-chan looks at Hotaru in alarm, rising quickly to pat her back and help her get through the coughing fit.
[12:07] * Serenity looks over at Hotaru worriedly, wondering if she should try to find the Professor.
[12:07] <Anastasia> "I'm... okay," she says weakly, her answering smiling face pale with dazed eyes. "I'm..." she murmurs, leaning forward as she collaspes across her chair, belly down.
[12:07] <Serenity> "Hotaru!" Usagi says, quickly getting out of her chair and going over to check on the girl.
[12:07] <Ami-chan> "Hotaru!" Ami exclaims, hurrying over.
[12:08] * Makoto frowns as she looks at Motoki. "Is there a doctor or something around this crowd?" she asks worriedly.
[12:08] <Anastasia> Rushing over amid a few other people coming - mostly the help - you can see Hotaru is pale, with warm, sweaty skin and a very slight wheeze as she breathes.
[12:09] * Ami-chan frowns. She doesn't know much about Hotaru's illness, but the symptoms are fairly serious, and she scans for the Professor.
[12:09] * Rei-chan frets over Hotaru for a moment before realising there's really nothing she can do, so she looks up, searching for the Professor.
[12:09] * Serenity grabs the closest napkin at hand, wiping Hotaru's brow with it, dipping it in a water glass to help cool the girl down.
[12:10] <Anastasia> Motoki himself is coming over, as is Professor Tomoe from the other side of the room. "Hey, is she alright?" the groom asks, coming over at a brisk clip. "Do we need to call a doctor?"
[12:10] <Ami-chan> "She doesn't look well." Ami replies softly, glancing at the Professor for confirmation.
[12:10] <Rei-chan> "I don't know," Rei answers, wringing her hands. "She's normally frail, but this looks a lot worse than normal..."
[12:11] * Serenity keeps her focus on Hotaru, doing what she can to ease the poor girl's suffering - although it isn't much.
[12:12] <Anastasia> Coming over himself, "She's sickly... and I think she's getting ill again," he says with a hint of worry. Coming over and slowly picking her up in her arms. "I'm going to take her home and call our doctor... she'll need some bedrest."
[12:12] <Ami-chan> "Do you need help?" Ami offers.
[12:13] * Serenity stands, looking rather upset. "Will she be all right? Do you need any of us?"
[12:13] <Anastasia> Tomoe shakes his head. "No...Just, could all of you stop by later?" he says. "After the doctor has come and gone this afternoon?"
[12:13] <Serenity> "We'll be there," Usagi agrees.
[12:13] * Ami-chan nods in agreement.
[12:14] <Anastasia> Taking her out with an escort from the helpers, "Until then," he says quietly, focusing on his daughter as the table in general watches this unfortunate incident...
[12:14] <Rei-chan> "Can I come, now?" Rei asks, biting her lip in worry for her little sister.
[12:14] <Anastasia> Tomoe stops, looking at Rei. "If you insist," he says after a moment.
[12:15] <Rei-chan> "I do," she nods, bowing to Motoki. "I'm terribly sorry I can't stay. I hope you and Reika have a wonderful marriage," she offers, before hurrying after the Professor.
[12:15] <Serenity> 'We'll come by after the reception, Rei-chan,' Usagi sends. 'I really hope it isn't anything serious.'
[12:16] <Rei-chan> 'Me too,' Rei thinks back earnestly as she leaves.
[12:16] * Serenity sighs, a sad expression on her face as she takes her seat once again.
[12:18] * Ami-chan settles into her own seat, her distraction even more increased, now.
[12:18] <Anastasia> After the two depart, the meal resumes in earnest... it's a seven course thing, with some rather nice foods. Or you think... as you have a distraction, now.
[12:19] * Serenity eats heartily enough, but her mind isn't really on the food, her focus more turned towards Hotaru's condition.
[12:22] <Anastasia> The rest of the time goes well enough, breaking to dancing... yet the girls find this rather boring...
[12:24] * Serenity spends no time at all with the dancing, seeking out Motoki and Reika almost immediately once dinner is over.
[12:26] <Anastasia> The two are having discussions with a few people you don't recognize, you find.
[12:27] * Serenity waits politely for them to finish their discussion before stepping up herself.
[12:27] <Anastasia> It takes a bit, but Motoki notes you after a bit. With a nod, "Usagi," he calls a bit. "Is your friend alright?"
[12:28] <Serenity> "I don't know yet, that's why I wanted to talk to you. I've really enjoyed everything today, but I'd really like to take off to make sure she's all right, if you don't mind." Usagi says somewhat apologetically.
[12:30] <Anastasia> He nods. "That's fine...and I hope she does better," he smiles. "Thanks for coming."
[12:31] * Serenity gives the newlyweds an honest smile. "Thank you for inviting us. I'll see you later, and best of luck!" she says, waving as she heads for the exit, Chibi Usa in tow.
[12:34] <Anastasia> The girls head out and are soon on the way back to Tokyo... but not to Usagi's house, but to the house of one Hotaru Tomoe...
[12:37] <Anastasia> Arriving shortly there after, you are admitted inside without incident. Going to Hotaru's room, you find the girl lying in bed, Rei and Professor Tomoe in there.
[12:37] <Serenity> "How is she?" Usagi says worriedly as she enters the room.
[12:38] <Anastasia> "She has a fever and a cough," Professor Tomoe says simply, "I'm hoping it's just a bit of a cold."
[12:39] <Serenity> "Is there anything we can do to help her?" she asks, looking over at the pale girl in the bed.
[12:40] <Anastasia> Taking off his glasses and rubbing the bridge of his nose, "I don't think so... I think she just needs to rest a while again."
[12:40] <Rei-chan> "How was the reception?" Rei asks, now dressed in a simple skirt and blouse.
[12:41] <Serenity> "We didn't stay for the whole thing," Usagi replies. "The food was good, but I was too worried about Hotaru to really enjoy it."
[12:42] * Rei-chan nods understandingly.
[12:43] <Anastasia> "I think she'll be alright," Professor Tomoe nods again. "She's not so badly off this time to be worried about, I hope."
[12:44] <Ami-chan> "That's nice to hear." Ami nods, casting a glance at the girl in bed.
[12:44] * Rei-chan nods. "She's gotten a lot better since we first knew her... it's easy to forget how frail she really is..." the miko notes with some self-recrimination.
[12:44] <Anastasia> Sleeping, Hotaru is still a bit sweaty and sickly-looking, but it's not as bad as it was at the banquet, you think.
[12:46] * Serenity nods glumly, glancing over at Hotaru. "I just can't help wishing there was something more I could do for her... I just don't know what, though."
[12:48] <Anastasia> "Don't beat yourself up over it," Professor Tomoe murmurs after a few seconds, running a hand through his hair. "Hotaru will be better in a couple of days."
[12:48] * Serenity sighs, nodding in agreement.
[12:51] <Anastasia> "Could you watch over her for a little bit, Rei?" he says after a moment, rising. "Usagi, could you come with me?"
[12:52] * Rei-chan nods silently, her attention mostly on Hotaru anyway.
[12:52] <Serenity> "Of course," Usagi agrees quietly, following the Professor out of the room.
[12:52] * Makoto stays with Rei, watching quietly over Hotaru as Usagi leaves with the professor.
[12:53] <Anastasia> Leading Usagi out with the other girls, he heads into the kitchen. It's a nice enough place, nice windows and a view of a backyard. After extracting a can of juice, "Help yourself if you like," he says, closing the refigerator door and going over to sit down at a small kitchen table.
[12:54] <Serenity> "Thank you," Usagi says, taking a can for herself and joining the Professor at the table. "What's on your mind?"
[12:55] <Anastasia> "A couple of things," he nods, taking a decent drink. "And... something to get my mind off of poor Hotaru for a bit," he smiles thinly. "I can burn myself to death with worry about her if I let it go that far."
[12:56] * Serenity nods sadly. "I kind of know that feeling," she agrees. "So... if you'd rather keep your mind off Hotaru, what else are you thinking about?" she says with a small smile.
[12:57] <Anastasia> "First," he nods, "Do you plan on going around like that often?" he asks curiously, glancing at Serenity's dress. "It's a beautiful dress, Usagi, but it gives me pause at times."
[12:58] * Serenity giggles a bit. "Not really," she answers, letting the dress dissipate. "I just thought it would be appropriate for the wedding today." Her 'normal' self is dressed casually, in a long skirt and blouse.
[13:00] <Anastasia> He nods once, with a small twitch of his lips. "It was... but I get the distinct feeling Germatou would have loathed that on sight, and it spills over a bit at times." Speaking about the former possessing monster, "I've been meaning to talk to you about him, Usagi."
[13:01] * Usagi-chan makes a face. "Seems a LOT of people dislike that when they see it," she replies, thinking of Zirae, Cynthia, Metallia... a rather large roster of people with grudges against the Moon Kingdom or the Princess Serenity. "His memories aren't giving you any problems, are they?"
[13:03] <Anastasia> "No," he says after a moment. "I'd rather not understand how to breed daimons or summon the Pharaoh, but the majority of them..." Tomoe smiles, some honest happiness in his face. "Germatou did a lot of various work and research. Much of it is somewhat farther advanced than what is par for Earth."
[13:03] * Usagi-chan gives the older man a curious look. "What kinds of things was he researching? Besides the obvious, I mean."
[13:05] <Anastasia> "Besides the Holy Grail and sorcery? He was interested in techonology and my knowledge on it, taking it in directions no human would think of." Taking another drink, he grimaces. "Some of the applications are simply inhuman things that will never be known by another person besides myself. Yet some," his grimace lessens, "are useful, advanced methods of techno and magical techonology."
[13:10] <Usagi-chan> "At least we know the nastier stuff he was looking into won't ever happen now," Usagi muses. "But what sorts of other things could we use now?"
[13:12] <Anastasia> "Yes, Usagi," he smiles. "Advanced energy generation, genetic engineering, magical science, alchemy and magic based chemistry... Germatou used many of these as elements in his creation of daimons. Yet each can be converted to more applicable means."
[13:13] * Usagi-chan nods, giving the Professor an interested look as she waits for him to go on.
[13:14] <Anastasia> "Much of it needs further work on it to be finished," he admits. "But hundreds of years' worth of fundamentals are in place, all up here." Turning away to the window, he changes gears. "Germatou was planning on making Mugen a complete educational ladder, from kindergarten to graduate school. We had only established as far as high school before he was dealt with....but..."
[13:16] <Usagi-chan> "All the way through college?" Usagi asks, rather impressed.
[13:17] <Anastasia> "Yes. The upper tiers would serve as further researching agents as well as time passed, to accelerate his work tenfold." Turning back to Usagi, "I believe that there is much benefit to be gained from the accidentally benign work he had done, and that his model could be used for good instead for bringing the Silence all the sooner."
[13:20] <Usagi-chan> "So you want to go ahead and expand Mugen the way he was originally planning to," Usagi lays the idea out plainly. "It sounds like a good idea to me - I mean, there's no harm in keeping the better parts of that research going, and it could probably help in a lot of ways."
[13:22] <Anastasia> Tomoe nods. "It can... and I'm telling you because I also believe it could be useful for your Moon Kingdom in the coming years," he says simply. "Not only to develop new technologies... but because you will need a base of professonals to help on the technical side of matters."
[13:24] * Usagi-chan nods. "I've thought about that, and to be honest that's one of the biggest problems I've run into so far. I can kind of see how everything will go up until the time when we declare the Kingdom to the world, but after that... things start to get a little messy. We have to bring more people in then, but deciding who and what they'll have to do is the hard part."
[13:28] <Anastasia> "It is," he agrees. "Once you announce it, it will be messy. But having a prepared group of essential personnel to help guide things will make it far smoother."
[13:29] * Usagi-chan nods. "I'd appreciate any help or suggestions you can give me there," she says with a smile. "I really want to see this succeed, but sometimes I feel like I've just picked up something way too big for me to handle, and I don't know what to do at times."
[13:34] <Anastasia> He smiles at that, "The best thing I can tell you to do is start getting people you'll want and need up there well in advance, Usagi. Having a basic setup ahead of time will make it easier. Myself, the Witches and your Senshi are something, but it's far from enough."
[13:35] <Usagi-chan> "I know, it's just hard to figure out how to break the idea to other people. Telling people - even people you KNOW well - that you'd like their help in colonizing the Moon won't fly too well, I get the feeling," she says with a wry smile.
[13:36] <Anastasia> Professor Tomoe nods. "I have that in mind," he says, turning againt to the window. "I'm going to propose that the graduate school have a secondary purpose, Usagi. To find and select suitable people to help on the Moon, as well as helping with the research of Germatou's knowledge."
[13:37] <Anastasia> "With the material they'll be working with, it should be easier to break it to them - they'll already be dealing with things the rest of the scientific community would laugh at."
[13:40] <Usagi-chan> "I guess that's true enough," Usagi agrees. "And it would probably be fairly easy to get to know them all if they're at Mugen - I wouldn't ask anyone I didn't trust, but that shouldn't be a problem if they're all studying with you," she muses, smiling a bit. "That would be a great way to find people."
[13:47] <Anastasia> He nods a second time. "It's something to work on as well," he agrees, rising. "We'll talk about it further another time, I should get back to Hotaru."
[13:48] * Usagi-chan nods, rising as well. "I really can't thank you enough for all your help, Professor," she says with a smile, following him back up to Hotaru's room.
[10:20] <Anastasia> ---
[10:26] <Anastasia> Another fun day in Juuban - Ami, Rei and Usagi going out like old times, Chibi Usa trailing along in a good mood in the November chill. After a stop in at the Crown and a nice lunch, you head out again...
[10:26] <Anastasia> "Mommy," Chibi Usa asks, holding your hand as you again suffer the coolish air of November, "Can we go do something else now? See a movie, maybe?"
[10:27] * Usagi-chan smiles. "Sure, we could do that. Did you have anything you wanted to go see?" Usagi asks her daughter.
[10:27] <Anastasia> "Maybe the park before it gets too cold to go there," Chibi Usa suggests as well, glancing up at Rei.
[10:28] <Rei-chan> "Anything's fine with me," Rei replies easily, happy enough just to be spending time with the others whatever they're doing.
[10:29] <Usagi-chan> "Is that all right with you, Ami-chan?" Usagi asks, glancing over at the blue-haired girl.
[10:29] * Ami-chan raises an eyebrow, half smiling at the energetic child, nodding in agreement with Rei, and just quietly following.
[10:29] * Ami-chan nods. "I have a free day today." she agrees. "For a change." she adds, under her breath.
[10:31] * Usagi-chan grins wryly at that. "You should arrange them more often - but it sounds like a good idea. To the park, then!"
[10:33] <Anastasia> Smiling at her mother, Chibi Usa lets her friends guide her to the park. The trees are nearly barren now, a small wind going through the branches. Only a few people are about, the prime summer season long gone. Yet one person remains, a familiar face to Ami as he inspects a flowerbed, setting it up for the long winter haul.
[10:36] <Anastasia> Finishing with it he stands slowly, rubbing his back before he sees the crowd. "Ami," he smiles slightly, not having expected company.
[10:40] * Ami-chan smiles to herself, and waves to him as they approach. "Good afternoon, Ojisan." she returns, smiling warmly. "It's been a long time."
[10:41] <Anastasia> "Hasn't it?" he smiles back. "You've been busy," he asks, nodding to your friends. "We've met before, haven't we?"
[10:42] * Usagi-chan smiles. "I think so, but just once - it's been a while."
[10:43] * Ami-chan nods, a wry smile touching her face just slightly. 'Understatement'. "Unfortunately... I keep meaning to come by, but..." she shrugs apologetically.
[10:43] * Rei-chan nods. "Nice to see the park is still here. Have they given up on the plans to put up office buildings here?"
[10:43] <Anastasia> "It's exam time for you, isn't it?" he asks, dusting off his pantlegs. "As a matter of fact... not only have they, but the city government has bought the land for it to be an official park now."
[10:44] <Usagi-chan> "That's wonderful!" Usagi says with a bright smile. "It's good to know - this place will be around for a long time, then."
[10:45] * Ami-chan nods in agreement, smiling softly. "I'm glad... I would have missed it if things hadn't worked out so well."
[10:46] <Anastasia> "Indeed," he nods. "There's so little green around here anymore... and we nearly lost this little patch of it."
[10:46] <Rei-chan> "Would have been a shame," Rei agrees earnestly.
[10:48] <Usagi-chan> "It's really a shame that there's so few natural areas around anymore," Usagi nods. "I wish there was something we could do about it."
[10:49] <Anastasia> "You have to go outside of Tokyo to see a real forest now," he comments, "Or nature at all." Shaking his head slightly, "But... enough of that. I don't want to bore you with an old man's ramblings."
[10:51] <Ami-chan> "You've never bored me, Ojisan." Ami smiles. "In fact, I have a friend I'd very much like you to meet. She loves plants... I think she'd really like it here."
[10:59] <Anastasia> "Really," he smiles. "It's kind of the off season, but by all means, bring her over," Nodding, "Why don't we go in for tea, then? It's rather chilly today."
[10:59] * Rei-chan nods her approval of that plan.
[10:59] <Usagi-chan> "Thank you, that's very kind," Usagi says, smiling.
[11:00] * Ami-chan smiles, and nods. "Thank you." she says, letting him lead the way.
[11:01] <Anastasia> Leading you back to a nice little cottage that seems to serve as a workhouse, information desk and residence all rolled into one for the park, you soon have cups of steaming tea. It's a bit cluttered, though. "Excuse the mess... it's always like this in the rush to finish everything before the first frost."
[11:02] * Rei-chan nods. "It's alright," she waves it off, sipping her tea and enjoying the pleasant warmth it provides.
[11:02] * Usagi-chan giggles. "It's not any worse than my room at home," she says. "Thanks for the tea, it's very good."
[11:03] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa sits between Rei and Usagi, working on her own tea. "It's really nice here," she speaks up, smiling at him. "M-Usagi-chan needs to take me here more," she says, glancing up at the rabbit.
[11:03] * Usagi-chan smiles at Chibi Usa, nodding as her daughter remembers to use her name. "We can sure try, but there's not going to be a lot to see or do here in the winter, I expect."
[11:04] * Ami-chan raises the cup to her lips with both hands, sipping carefully, and giggling a little at Chibi Usa's comment. "How has everything been?" she asks softly.
[11:06] <Anastasia> "Well... ever since the planning commission withdrew, it's been a little unsettled," he admits. "Until last month, when the city bought the land from them and established it as a park." At that, he smiles. "Not only is it safe, we'll be provided with some funding as well."
[11:07] <Usagi-chan> "Do you have any plans for the park, then?" Usagi says curiously.
[11:11] <Anastasia> "We can't really expand, so I'd just like to make it as beautiful as possible," he smiles, leaning back with his tea. "Purchase more flower seeds, install a fountain, perhaps get some bigger boats for the lake."
[11:12] <Usagi-chan> "I'm sure whatever you do will be beautiful," Usagi says with a smile. "This place has always looked great."
[11:12] <Ami-chan> "Wow..." Ami nods in agreement with Usagi. "I can't wait to see the results."
[11:13] <Rei-chan> "I've always enjoyed coming here," Rei agrees.
[11:17] <Anastasia> "Thank you," he says in earnest. "That means a lot... I'm glad other people realise all that's here." Smiling at Ami gently, "Ami... you should bring your friends here more... or even your boyfriend," he says warmly.
[11:18] * Ami-chan blushes darkly and coughs. "I'm not... I mean... I don't..."
[11:18] <Anastasia> "It's alright," he smiles quickly. "When you do, then. The lake is wonderful for a romantic date, or so I hear."
[11:19] * Usagi-chan nods, glancing over at Rei.
[11:20] * Ami-chan stares at her tea. "I'll... I'll keep that in mind." she replies, getting her blush under control, and looking up again, smiling.
[11:20] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa smiles as well. "Does that mean that Mommy and Daddy can come here with me for a lake trip, or is it just for two," the child asks.
[11:21] <Usagi-chan> "You could probably fit three people in a boat, although it'd be a squeeze," Usagi admits.
[11:21] <Anastasia> "It's fine for that, too," he smiles. "And when we get some bigger boats, it won't be a squeeze at all."
[11:22] <Rei-chan> "We'll look forward to it, then," Rei smiles.
[11:25] <Anastasia> "Good," he smiles, getting up. "I really need to get back to work... Ami, feel free to stay here as long as you want. I trust you not to run off with anything."
[11:26] <Ami-chan> "Mm!" Ami agrees, smiling. "Thank you for the hospitality."
[11:28] <Usagi-chan> "Thanks again for the tea," Usagi says to the old caretaker as he leaves.
[11:31] <Rei-chan> "Thank you," Rei adds her gratitude, clasping the hot cup with both hands.
[11:31] <Anastasia> After he leaves, "We will come here more, Mommy... Daddy?" Chibi Usa asks, staring up at the both of them.
[11:32] * Ami-chan grins and watches the three, quietly sipping her tea.
[11:32] <Rei-chan> "Of course, Chibi Usa," Rei smiles down at the pink haired girl.
[11:32] <Usagi-chan> "Sure we will, Chibi Usa," Usagi agrees. "Maybe not so much right away, but definitely next spring - it's really beautiful here when all the flowers start blooming."
[11:33] <Anastasia> "The cherry blossoms?" she says, not quite sounding sad as she goes on. "Mommy liked the cherry blossoms a lot, too."
[11:34] * Usagi-chan strokes Chibi Usa's hair. "They really are beautiful, yeah. We'll have to have a big cherry blossom picnic next year with everyone."
[11:34] <Rei-chan> "That'd be really nice," Rei nods approvingly.
[11:35] <Anastasia> "With everyone?" she asks, smiling. "Mommy..." she begins, sounding slightly nervous now. "I... want to talk to you about everyone, Mommy?"
[11:36] * Usagi-chan gives Chibi Usa a curious look. "What's on your mind, Chibi Usa-chan?"
[11:40] * Ami-chan blinks, looking to the little girl as she sets down her cup, curious at what's on Chibi Usa's mind.
[11:42] <Anastasia> "All of your friends... and all of those ladies go to Mugen," she starts, "And I was there for awhile. They have younger classes, don't they?" she asks. "I'd like to go to school with Mommy and her friends..." she smiles up at you hopefully, eyes pleading. "I like my other school, but I want to be with you, Mommy... and Daddy and everyone, too."
[11:43] * Usagi-chan smiles. "I'd like you to be there too, Chibi Usa," she says. "Tell you what: I'll talk to the Professor tomorrow and see what it would take to get you enrolled, okay?"
[11:47] <Anastasia> "Thanks, Mommy," she smiles, hugging you. "We can even go to and from school together," she beams.
[11:48] <Usagi-chan> "You bet," Usagi says with a grin. "We can even work on our homework together in the office after school."
[11:51] <Anastasia> Smiling again, "How about some ice cream and soda to celebrate," she asks hopefully, giving Usagi pleading eyes again.
[11:51] * Rei-chan snickers a little at that.
[11:52] * Usagi-chan giggles. "I'm not sure... I don't know if I WANT any ice cream right now..." she says with a thoughtful look.
[11:53] <Anastasia> "Mom!" Chibi Usa protests, "Rei-chan, is Mommy sick?"
[11:53] * Ami-chan smothers a giggle at that.
[11:54] <Rei-chan> "It is rather cold for ice cream," Rei notes.
[11:55] <Ami-chan> "That's never stopped her before." Ami observes mildly.
[11:56] * Usagi-chan still wears her thoughtful expression, trying hard not to smile. "I don't know, Rei-chan might be right this time."
[11:56] <Anastasia> "Rei-chan," Chibi Usa stares, honestly surprised. "But... it's ice cream," she fumbles, looking up at the both of you.
[11:57] * Ami-chan bites her lip, trying not to laugh at Chibi Usa's flummoxed expression.
[11:58] * Rei-chan nods. "Ice cream is all well and good when it's hot, but really with it being so chilly... wouldn't you prefer something to warm you up instead?"
[11:59] * Usagi-chan nods, warming up to Rei's idea. "Something hot DOES sound pretty good right now, actually..."
[12:00] <Anastasia> "Um..." Chibi Usa, still rather surprised, does try to cope with that. "Well, Grandmother said taiyaki is good in the winter..."
[12:01] <Rei-chan> "How about hot fudge or something?" Rei offers with a small smile, deciding that Chibi Usa's dessert horizons badly need expanding if all she can think of is ice cream.
[12:02] <Usagi-chan> "Ooh, I could go for that," Usagi says with a grin. "Or maybe fresh pie? This is the BEST time of year for apple pie..."
[12:03] <Anastasia> Chibi Usa does nod there. "That would be nice," she agrees, forgetting about the ice cream.
[12:08] <Usagi-chan> "You have any preferences, Ami-chan?" Usagi asks, looking up at the other girl.
[12:08] * Ami-chan shrugs, shaking her head. "I'd like a coffee, or a soda, but I'm not really hungry." she admits.
[12:10] <Usagi-chan> "I guess a kissaten would be our best bet then - do you know of any good places near here, Rei-chan?"
[12:11] <Rei-chan> "I'm sure we can find one without looking too hard," Rei shrugs. "Those places spring up around parks, after all."
[12:11] * Usagi-chan nods in agreement, rising from her seat. "Are we going, then?"
[12:12] * Rei-chan drains the last of her tea and sets the cup down. "Sure," she agrees, standing.
[12:12] * Ami-chan does likewise, a smile touching her lips as she nods. "Mm."
[12:16] <Usagi-chan> "Let's go!" Usagi says with a grin, leading the small group out of the cottage - and in search of snacks!

[11:59] <Anastasia> ---
[12:01] <Anastasia> November blues... it's the second week of the month, and cool weather has locked in. A certain melancholy can be felt, even if it's a blessedly peaceful one. School has gone on now, free and clear without anything since Zirae. Thank God.
[12:02] <Anastasia> Yet as you head home one chill and windy day, a black car is waiting at your house, mostly blacking the way inside. A tinted window rolls down, revealing a man in sunglasses and with a dour enough expression to sink a ship. "Miss Tsukino?"
[12:02] * Usagi-chan frowns a bit, looking at the man in the car. "Yes?"
[12:04] <Anastasia> "The dietman would like to speak with you," the man says, "The side door is unlocked."
[12:05] * Usagi-chan's frown deepens a bit, but she obeys the silent instruction, opening the side door of the car and getting inside.
[12:06] <Anastasia> It's a nice enough backseat, nothing of note about it. The moment you get in, he hits the gas, beginning to go.
[12:06] * Usagi-chan remains a bit tense, wondering what Rei's father wants to speak to her about.
[12:10] <Anastasia> The drive isn't a long one - to a nice little eatery that looks to be closed. The driver opens your door, however, "The Dietman is inside," he nods once.
[12:11] <Usagi-chan> "Thank you," Usagi says, climbing out of the car and heading inside.
[12:15] <Anastasia> Inside is indeed quiet, save for one Dietman Hino, two black suited bodyguards, and a prim woman in her late forties, light glasses and business-like suit giving her an important apperance.
[12:16] * Usagi-chan gives the woman a careful look, wondering who she might be.
[12:17] <Anastasia> "Usagi," he nods once solemnly. "Meet Chi Kiroshu," he nods. "This is the woman I told you about," he nods. "Usagi, she is an up-and-coming member of our council, and the strongest supporter of meeting with the senshi instead of violence."
[12:18] <Usagi-chan> "Nice to meet you," Usagi says politely, nodding to the woman. "What did you need from me?" she asks, getting right to the point.
[12:20] <Anastasia> "Usagi..." he schools his expression neutrally. "I believe it would be beneficial for you to speak at the council as soon as possible."
[12:20] * Usagi-chan's expression sours a bit at that. "Things aren't going well?" she asks.
[12:21] <Anastasia> "They are going well, actually," she goes on. "We have the other faction at a disadvantage now... and we can finish them if we act decisively." Speaking up for the first time, "Sailor Moon."
[12:22] * Usagi-chan is unruffled by the woman's knowledge of who she is; considering that Hino had her here, she was expecting something of the sort. "What would you want from me at this council meeting?"
[12:23] <Anastasia> "Enough information to soothe the council further," Hino goes on. "I would like Sailor Mars and perhaps a few others there as well. A  unified statement can finally put this matter to rest."
[12:24] <Usagi-chan> "I'll be there for sure myself, and I expect Mars will agree to come as well. I'll have to see who else is willing to come along, though." Usagi replies.
[12:25] <Anastasia> He nods. "We wish to hold it in four days, on Sunday," he goes on. "We will pick you up at Rei's Shrine."
[12:26] <Usagi-chan> "We'll be there," Usagi replies.
[12:38] <Anastasia> That day...
[12:38] <Anastasia> Having been told to meet, the two get there early, having decided to just make it the two of them.
[12:39] * Sailor_Moon leans back against Rei's bed, seated on the floor in the miko's bedroom. "Wonder what they're going to ask us today," she muses.
[12:40] <Sailor_Mars> "Probably the same kind of things Father asked," Rei replies, "just so they can get it direct from the source and ask any follow-up questions they might have come up with."
[12:41] * Sailor_Moon nods. "Have to admit I'm a little nervous about this... it seems like it's going to be a pretty big deal."
[12:42] <Sailor_Mars> "Least it's not public," Rei sighs. "Just try not to let them rattle you. Have to show them that we're dependable protectors of the peace, after all," she smirks a bit, there.
[12:43] * Sailor_Moon giggles a bit at that. "I'll try. I just hope they're not all as... gruff as your dad is."
[12:44] <Sailor_Mars> "Comes with the territory," Rei sighs. "They might be all smiles at election time, but... business is business."
[12:46] <Sailor_Moon> "I guess so," Usagi says, frowning a bit. "I just can't help wondering what will happen, though - even if I know it probably won't be anything major."
[12:47] <Sailor_Mars> "We'll find out soon enough..." Rei leans her head back, contemplatively.
[12:49] <Anastasia> It doesn't take too long for the ride to arrive - a black, unmarked sedan. The expected agents lead you to it, driving you without comment.
[12:50] * Sailor_Moon remains quiet throughout the trip, trying to calm her nerves.
[12:50] * Sailor_Mars also remains quiet, used well enough to riding around in government cars like this. Though never in uniform...
[12:52] <Anastasia> The drive doesn't take long, leading you to a government office deep in Tokyo. In an underground parking lot, there is a secured lot, which is where you end up parking. The men lead you out and to a speedy elevator, up and up and up...
[12:55] * Sailor_Mars looks to be the perfect picture of cool poise and composure, not giving anything away by her posture.
[12:56] * Sailor_Moon seems to have composed herself on the car trip, looking almost like her normal cheerful self.
[12:58] <Anastasia> Finally the elevator stops, opening up to a simple hallway area, then down to a meeting room of sorts. Large and slightly dim, there is a table with about twelve seats. Each one is filled, Rei's father at the head. Opposite it are two chairs, waiting for you. There is a murmur from the assembled politicians, staring on.
[12:59] * Sailor_Moon glances around the room fairly calmly, nodding once to Rei's father before taking a seat.
[13:00] <Sailor_Mars> Entering, Rei gives a respectful bow to the assembled politicians, waiting for Usagi to sit before doing the same.
[13:06] <Anastasia> "Welcome, Sailor Moon... Sailor Mars," Hino begins briskly. "We've asked you here today so that we can clear up some issues regarding your actions in the past year."
[13:07] * Sailor_Moon nods. "I understand, and we'll be happy to answer any questions you might have."
[13:08] * Sailor_Mars nods slightly, letting Moon handle the talking unless anything specific to her comes up.
[13:08] <Anastasia> "We'll start with an overview," he nods. "Tell us about yourselves, senshi."
[13:09] * Sailor_Moon blinks, then shrugs. "There's not a lot to say, really. We were both awakened about a year and a half ago to fight the forces of the Dark Kingdom that were threatening Tokyo at the time, and we've been active as senshi ever since."
[13:14] <Anastasia> "Awakened?" an older man asks, gnarled but sharp eyed. His voice is soft yet audible, said brown eyes fixed on you.
[13:14] * Sailor_Moon nods. "Before that, we were all just normal people."
[13:16] <Anastasia> Going on at that, "So... was this change random, or was there a determining factor?"
[13:17] <Sailor_Moon> "It wasn't random. There are specific things that decided that we would all be senshi, determined when we were born for most of us." Usagi replies. "It's not something that just anyone can do."
[13:20] <Anastasia> "What determines this senshihood?" A second man, young and brown haired, asks. More reserved than the other, he wears light sunglasses to hide his eyes.
[13:21] <Sailor_Moon> "It's... a bit hard to explain. The best I can tell you is that it's something that all of us were born with." Usagi hedges.
[13:23] <Sailor_Mars> "Do you believe in reincarnation?" Rei speaks up to the assembly.
[13:23] * Sailor_Moon glances over at Rei, somewhat startled. 'Rei...?'
[13:24] <Sailor_Mars> 'It's the best way to get them off the idea of dissecting us, I think,' Rei replies mentally. 'Don't worry, I won't tell them anything about the Kingdom.'
[13:24] <Sailor_Moon> 'All right,' Usagi replies, turning back towards the panel.
[13:28] <Anastasia> "Excuse me?" a withered old man, even older than the first, speaks up.
[13:30] <Sailor_Mars> "That's what happened," Rei confirms. "From what we gathered fighting the Dark Kingdom last year, we used to be protectors of the Earth - thousands of years ago, from a time even before legend. The Dark Kingdom also existed back then, and we sealed it away in the final battle. We were reincarnated in this time to finish the job as the seal on the Dark Kingdom weakened and they began attacking again."
[15:47] <Anastasia> A short pause as that is considered. "That's impossible," he asserts a moment later.
[15:47] * Sailor_Moon shrugs. "Whether you think it's impossible or not, it's the truth," Usagi replies.
[15:47] * Sailor_Mars frowns a bit. "As impossible as magic?"
[15:51] <Anastasia> A small grimace from him, Rei's father interjecting. "Be that as it may... continue, Sailor Moon. Tell us about the incidents you've dealt with... and about the Infinity school."
[15:51] * Sailor_Mars falls silent, again letting Moon take the fore.
[15:54] * Sailor_Moon nods. "I was the first of the senshi to be awakened to fight the forces of the Dark Kingdom, two years ago next March. The first of their generals went by the name Jadeite." She stops. "If you'd like, I can show you who I'm talking about as I go on."
[15:56] <Anastasia> Dietman Hino nods. "Go on and do so, and continue."
[15:58] * Sailor_Moon nods, muttering a few words - and a semi-transparent image of the first of the Dark Kingdom's generals appears in the center of the room. "This was Jadeite. He oversaw the Dark Kingdom's operations in Juuban for the better part of three months, mostly gathering energy to reawaken their leader, Metallia." Moon goes on, outlining the awakenings of Mercury and Mars, and culminating in the image of Tokyo in flames and the battle at the airport.
[16:02] <Anastasia> There is some discussion about that. "We thought that was an elaborate prank at the time," Hino's right-hand woman notes. "Or some unexplained phenomenon."
[16:03] * Sailor_Moon shakes her head. "It was a big illusion, but it did actually happen. I don't know if Jadeite actually would have had the power to follow through on that threat, but he never got the chance. After he disappeared at the battle at the airport, he was imprisoned for his failures by Queen Beryl - I'll get to that in a bit."
[16:09] * Sailor_Mars nods silently, agreeing with Usagi's version of events.
[16:10] <Anastasia> "Go on," Dietman Hino says again, sending looks across the room, unspoken commands in each.
[16:12] * Sailor_Moon nods, and the wavering image shifts to Nephrite. "Nephrite was the second of the Dark Kingdom's generals, and he took over operations in our area after Jadeite was removed." Again, Usagi outlines the events of Nephrite's career, ending with the fact that he fell in love with a human (not mentioning Naru's name) and was betrayed by another one of the generals. "We would have tried to help him if we'd had the chance,
[16:12] <Sailor_Moon> but he was killed before we could do anything for him." She finishes, a bit sad at that.
[16:15] <Anastasia> There are quite a few looks at the image of the general, for sure. "That's Masato Sanjoin," one notes, while another outright gasps. "That's what the squad reported..."
[16:15] <Sailor_Moon> "That was the name he used while he was here, yes," Usagi nods.
[16:18] <Anastasia> There is a rough underrcurrent there, but Hino cuts it off. "Go on... we'll do questions afterwards."
[16:20] <Sailor_Moon> "All right," Usagi agrees, and the image shifts once again - to Zoisite this time. Usagi can't hide a scowl as she launches into the tale of the rainbow crystals and the Silver Crystal, although in the story of Starlight Tower she omits all references to uncovered identities or the Moon Princess - merely that the ginzuishou emerged.
[16:22] <Anastasia> Nodding, Hino mutely encourages you to go on.
[16:24] * Sailor_Moon does so, going on into the story of those last few hectic weeks between the capture of Mamoru and the fall of Metallia. She makes no mention of Rei's fall, only that Tokyo was heavily damaged in Metallia's invasion while the senshi were lured elsewhere as a distraction. "After the defeat of Metallia, history was somehow rewritten by the ginzuishou so that all of the damage to Tokyo was undone completely. That's why no one
[16:24] <Sailor_Moon> other than the senshi remember what really happened over those two days."
[16:30] <Anastasia> "Balderdash," the oldest member of the council objects. "This goes too far, Sailor Moon! It's simply not possible!"
[16:30] * Sailor_Moon shakes her head. "Whether you believe it or not, that's what happened," she insists. "I have absolutely no reason to lie to you about it."
[16:33] <Anastasia> "She's telling the truth," another member of the council, a portly man with nasty, narrow eyes points out. "My evidence suggests so."
[16:34] <Sailor_Mars> "You have evidence of time being shifted?" Rei speaks up curiously there, wondering exactly how that could be acquired.
[16:44] <Anastasia> "We have... an inkling," he smiles nastily at you. Turning his gaze to Hino, "Why don't I take the fl-" With a surprising snap, "Denied." he says flatly to the other man. "Go on about the incidents in December, Sailor Moon."
[16:46] * Sailor_Moon eyes the man suspiciously, but nods to Hino. "Shortly after Metallia's defeat, a group of criminals imprisoned for several thousand years - from the senshi's original time - escaped their prison. We don't know for sure ourselves, but we've guessed that somehow Metallia's defeat weakened the seals on it." With a sigh, she launches into the tale of the prisoners' defeats, including Makoto's capture and the incidents with Oxyite and Orestes.
[16:50] <Anastasia> Nodding along, "The cause of those 'terrorist attacks'," one member snorts deeply.
[16:52] * Sailor_Moon nods, sighing a bit. "Unfortunately. No one expected Oxyite to react like that when he died, and I'm deeply sorry for the deaths that happened because of that. But by the time we realized what was happening, there was no time to do anything."
[16:54] <Anastasia> The portly one from before speaks up, "So you let an entire block be destroyed," he says with slight, stinging contempt.
[16:55] <Sailor_Mars> "We didn't LET anything happen," Rei fires back quickly. "There are always risks when you deal with the kind of threats we do. Be grateful it wasn't far worse, because it easily could have been."
[16:56] * Sailor_Moon remains calm and pensive. "What happened was unavoidable. There was no way of knowing that was going to happen, for anyone."
[17:01] <Anastasia> "Bah." he snorts, shaking his head. "That's just you saying you don't care that you saw a city block and innocents die."
[17:02] * Sailor_Mars glares at the man. "Don't presume to judge us. I don't see you risking your life out there to protect everyone."
[17:02] * Sailor_Moon glares at the man. "How DARE you! I was mortified when I found out that innocent people died - but what could I do at that point?" Usagi shoots back hotly. "I tried my best, and it wasn't good enough that one time - so I've worked hard to make sure it doesn't happen again!"
[17:03] <Anastasia> "What I see are a couple of threats running around like they own this city," he snorts back, glaring at Sailor Moon. Cut off again, however, "Enough, Daikoku." Hino says coldly. "You WILL let them speak and finish before throwing about your baseless accusations."
[17:04] <Anastasia> The council as a whole reactions mutely, a few showing quiet support for Daikoku... but must are simply quiet, keeping their gaze on the senshi.
[17:06] <Anastasia> "Go on," he says after a moment, meeting the portly man's gaze with steel.
[17:06] * Sailor_Moon takes a moment to compose herself, still scowling as she goes on. "Things were pretty quiet for several months after the defeat of the last of the criminals, until March. This is where Mugen enters the picture." Going on, she outlines the activities of the Deathbusters and the elves, noting that all of them were purified save for Kaolinite. "They're all close friends of ours now, and they help us out from time to time."
[17:09] <Anastasia> "So these... people are still in Tokyo," Chi speaks up at this, curious
[17:11] * Sailor_Moon nods. "I'd rather not say where they are, since all they want for now is a chance to live in peace. They don't really need to be bothered too much. If there's any more trouble from any of them - which I really doubt - we're prepared to take care of things, but I doubt it'll be necessary."
[17:14] <Anastasia> Nodding, "That's good," Hino says. "We'd like to meet a few of them if possible - on friendly terms, of course, just to make sure that there aren't any more... issues."
[17:14] <Sailor_Moon> "I'll ask, but it'll be up to each of them," Usagi replies. "I don't have any problem with them talking to you myself."
[17:15] <Anastasia> "We would appreciate that," another member says, a young man looking rather dapper. "Perhaps we could even come to terms with them."
[17:16] * Sailor_Moon smiles. "I don't think it'll be necessary to do that separately - you can consider any terms you come to with us to apply to them as well. But I have no problem asking them to come anyway."
[17:17] <Anastasia> "Good," Chi speaks up. "Have these been the end of the incidents, correct?"
[17:18] * Sailor_Mars shakes her head. "That only takes us as far as the end of March. You all know about the news footage from July, of course..." she trails off to let Usagi take charge once more.
[17:19] <Sailor_Moon> "There's only been one other series of incidents to speak of, in July and August." Usagi takes a deep breath before beginning the tale of the Black Moon and the alternate universe. Chibi Usa is never named in the story, just as the girl who came from the other dimension.
[17:27] <Anastasia> Nodding as you go along, "And this threat has been dealt with as well?" he asks quietly, for the sake of the audience of others.
[17:28] * Sailor_Moon nods. "The last of it was dealt with in the other dimension, and the last person searching for the girl was taken care of about a month later. In the process of that, the Silver Crystal was reformed and is now in my possession again."
[17:33] <Anastasia> Speaking up yet again to your chargin, "This Crystal, what is it," the portly man asks, still not sounding friendly in the least.
[17:34] <Sailor_Moon> "It's a powerful magical artifact dating from far beyond any recorded history," Usagi replies, frowning slightly. "More than that, I couldn't tell you - I don't know a lot more than that about it myself."
[17:36] <Anastasia> "Why don't you tell us anything more you know?" the dapper man suggets, interested. "I'd like to hear more about this mythical object."
[17:39] <Sailor_Moon> "Like I said, I don't know all that much more about it myself. I know it was an heirloom of my family back in the original period when the senshi existed. And it's extremely powerful - it DID manage to completely rewrite two days worth of history."
[17:45] <Anastasia> "Then... can we see it," he presses on, interested. "I'd like to see it myself, then."
[17:48] * Sailor_Moon nods, producing her daughter - in crystal form - from just inside her fuku, holding the item up for inspection. "Here it is."
[17:50] <Anastasia> Gleaming in the light with the slightest pink cast, the Crystal rests in Usagi's hand. All assembled stare openly at it. "That's...." Chi whispers quietly... "Amazing," another says.
[17:51] * Sailor_Moon nods. 'They have no idea just HOW amazing,' she thinks to Rei with a slight smile.
[17:52] <Sailor_Mars> 'Probably for the best,' Rei thinks back, making no outward display of emotion.
[17:55] <Anastasia> Shaking his head, "That's enough, Sailor Moon. You can put it away now," Hino says, having stared at it himself.
[17:56] * Sailor_Moon does so, storing it just inside the collar of her fuku.
[17:57] <Anastasia> "Now, then," he says, taking control. "If you have any REASONABLE questions, by all means. The floor is open."
[17:58] <Anastasia> Taking advantage now, "Nephrite... the one behind the demise of our first squad. He has been confirmed to have been dealt with?"
[17:58] * Sailor_Mars grimaces. "Yes. We saw that quite clearly."
[17:58] * Sailor_Moon nods, a slightly sad look on her face. "I watched him die myself... there was nothing we could to for him by that point."
[18:00] <Anastasia> "Good," the portly man nods. "Now that he's out of the way... our next squad should be more capable."
[18:00] * Sailor_Moon frowns at that. "Everyone we've fought since then has been significantly more powerful than Nephrite was. I doubt any other squad you could form would do any better if any more threats appear."
[18:03] <Anastasia> That gets a slight frown, but another picks up. "Regardless of that... is this the end of the affair?" Chi asks. "Do you know of any further attacks?"
[18:04] <Sailor_Mars> "Every time it ends, we think it's over..." Rei sighs. "I just hope if there are more threats, they won't continually be stronger than the last..."
[18:04] <Sailor_Moon> "Everything's been quiet since the middle of August," Usagi confirms. "We can't say for sure whether there will be any more attacks or not - neither the Deathbusters nor the Black Moon family were something we expected to run into. But we're prepared to fight again if it's necessary."
[18:06] <Anastasia> "Mmmm," the portly man speaks up yet again. "So...it's just a matter of time before you have an excuse to cause more damage to this fair city?" he asks, digging in.
[18:07] * Sailor_Moon rolls her eyes. "I'm HOPING there won't be any more attacks at all. And we certainly don't intend to cause any damage to the city if we can help it - it's usually the people we're fighting that cause the real damage."
[18:11] <Anastasia> He snorts again, but is cut off by another.
[18:12] <Anastasia> "And what of the other Senshi? And... for that matter, of Sailor Venus?" another brings up. "We've noted from all reports that she's gone missing."
[18:13] * Sailor_Moon grows solemn at that. "The other senshi couldn't make it today. As for Sailor Venus, she's no longer with us. She was killed in a car accident several months ago."
[18:15] <Anastasia> A shocked murmur ripples through, Dietman Hino sighing slightly. "We mourn for your loss," he says politically to Usagi.
[18:15] <Sailor_Moon> "Thank you," Usagi says sincerely. "It wasn't something any of us were expecting."
[18:22] * Sailor_Mars just stares at the table in front of her, not meeting anyone's eyes right now.
[18:46] <Ana-brb> Going on, "As am I," the dapper man smiles. "There is another matter, however. Are you familiar with demons, Sailor Moon?"
[18:46] * Sailor_Moon frowns. "Unfortunately, yes. One of the criminals that escaped in December was a demon summoner."
[18:48] <Anastasia> Nodding, and glancing at Dietman Hino's nod before going on, "It has so happened we have procured the services of one as well," he says, driving to the point.
[18:48] * Sailor_Moon's frown deepens at that, but she doesn't reply.
[18:49] * Sailor_Mars frowns as well, looking up. "Striking bargains with demons is complete foolishness."
[18:52] <Anastasia> "Be that as it may, we would like for you to meet this person. We have concerns of our own, but are unable to fully assess the situation."
[18:53] <Sailor_Moon> "I can do that," Usagi replies. "I'd like to meet them anyway - the summoner we dealt with back in December was a close friend of mine once, and I'd hate to see what happened to her happen to anyone else."
[18:57] <Anastasia> "Thank you," he nods, smiling slightly. "He's... something, but I think you'll be able to handle him."
[18:57] * Sailor_Moon raises an eyebrow slightly at that, but doesn't continue.
[18:59] <Anastasia> The portly dietman looks to be extremely annoyed at this point, but doesn't venture out. Instead, "And of another matter," Chi goes on. "You have civilian lives as well?"
[19:00] <Sailor_Moon> "We all do, yes. But I'd rather keep our identities confidential." Usagi nods.
[19:01] <Anastasia> "I can understand that," she nods. "As I don't believe it would be prudent at this time to divulge them at any rate." Speaking so openly, she goes on. "Nonetheless... we would like to improve our communications and trust level, Sailor Moon. The vast majority of us understand what you have to do and simply want to be able to cope with the aftereffects."
[19:02] <Sailor_Moon> "I don't have a problem with that," Usagi says with a smile - she's glad to see someone so willing to cooperate. "The only thing I want to do is for things to be peaceful. That's all we're really fighting for."
[19:03] <Sailor_Mars> "Tokyo is our home, too," Rei speaks up. "We just want to live here peacefully and ensure it's peaceful for our friends and everyone else."
[19:05] <Anastasia> Nodding with a smile. "I'm glad to hear that."
[19:09] <Anastasia> Taking over, "I think we've heard enough," Hino says, glancing at the now openly angry Daikoku. "The men will see you out... we have matters to discuss."
[19:09] * Sailor_Moon also looks at Daikoku, a slight frown marring her own features as she stands. "We'll be going then. It's nice to have met you all."
[19:10] * Sailor_Mars rises and silently bows to everyone, turning to the door once done.
[19:12] <Anastasia> Waiting outside are the men from last time, faces impassive. "It's time?" the one asks, glancing at Sailor Moon.
[19:13] <Sailor_Moon> "They said they're finished with us," Usagi confirms.
[19:13] <Anastasia> With a curt gesture, he leads out down and out in short order, the car seat familiar. "Where do you want to be dropped off," he asks. "I haven't been instructed on any particular place."
[19:14] <Sailor_Moon> "It doesn't really matter to me," Usagi replies. "Anywhere is fine."
[19:14] * Sailor_Mars nods her assent with that.
[19:15] <Anastasia> Nodding, he drives you on back to near the Shrine, on a slightly back road with no one really about right now. "You can get out here," he instructs. "...It was interesting meeting you," he follows up a minute later. "Thought you might be twenty feet tall with fangs."
[19:15] * Sailor_Mars chuckles a bit at that. "Not disappointing, I hope?" she asks, opening the door.
[19:15] * Sailor_Moon giggles a bit at that. "We're mostly normal," she says with a smile. "You probably wouldn't blink if you ran into one of us on the street."
[19:16] <Anastasia> "Good," he says, honest. "I saw one of those monsters one time and I'm glad you're not like them."
[19:16] <Sailor_Moon> "Really?" Usagi says curiously. "Where was it?"
[19:17] <Anastasia> "I was picking up my daughter from Toudai," he says, letting his business mask slip a bit. "She's in the kendo club, and one of those monsters did something to them before one of you showed up and chased it off."
[19:18] * Sailor_Mars furrows her brow a moment. "Think that was Sailor Dragon, back in Febuary?"
[19:19] * Sailor_Moon nods to Rei. "Yeah, I remember that one."
[19:19] <Anastasia> He nods. "Yeah. Scariest thing I've ever seen." Shuddering, "She was in the hospital for a few days after that."
[19:20] * Sailor_Moon nods sadly at that. "I've got one friend who's been a victim in a lot of attacks - she's been to the hospital a few times."
[19:22] <Anastasia> "Poor her," he nods, the smiles. "Get going before anyone sees you, alright? And thanks... for everything."
[19:23] <Sailor_Moon> "Sure," Usagi says with a smile, climbing out of the car. "It was nice meeting you - take care!" she calls into the car from outside.
[19:24] * Sailor_Mars waves as well as the car drives off.
[19:24] * Sailor_Moon glances over at Rei. "Do you think that Daikoku guy had us followed?"
[19:25] <Sailor_Mars> "Maybe. Let's roofhop a bit then teleport," she suggests quietly.
[19:26] * Sailor_Moon nods in agreement, taking to the rooftops and heading off in a random direction. "What did you think of it?" she asks as the two put some distance between themselves and the Shrine.
[19:28] <Sailor_Mars> "I think we handled ourselves okay. Not sure if we've actually reassured all of them, though," Rei replies, keeping pace with Usagi.
[19:29] * Sailor_Moon nods. "That woman was the one who talked to me with your dad to set this up. I have to admit, I do like her," Usagi says with a small smile. "I hope they manage to talk the rest of the council around - although I bet that Daikoku guy won't listen to a thing."
[19:30] <Sailor_Mars> "Just stubborn, I guess," Rei shrugs. "Hopefully he'll fall in line with the decision of the rest without too much fuss."
[19:30] <Sailor_Moon> "I couldn't believe he accused me of not caring when those people died!" Usagi says angrily. "He doesn't even know me!"
[19:31] <Sailor_Mars> "I know," Rei replies with a frown of her own. "I'd like to see him risk his neck fighting some of the things we've faced."
[19:32] * Sailor_Moon nods sharply. "And putting together another 'squad' - your dad said the first one died pretty quickly, right?" she says, looking over at Rei. "Compared to what we've fought recently, I'd say Nephrite's youma were pretty tame."
[19:33] <Sailor_Mars> "Hopefully if anything does appear we can deal with it well before anyone else can get sent on a suicide mission," Rei says unhappily.
[19:34] <Sailor_Moon> "Yeah," Usagi agrees in much the same tone. "And I don't know what to think about this demon summoner they've found - if it's someone like Cynthia, I just hope I can talk him out of it before something really bad happens."
[19:35] <Sailor_Mars> "They'll want us to help him improve his skill," Rei says distastefully. "They don't seem to realise that you can never control demons. They just go along with you and manipulate you for their own ends until it's too late to back out even if you want to."
[19:36] <Sailor_Moon> "I know. I certainly don't plan on helping him at all - if I do anything, I'll try to block off his power. But I'd rather try to talk him out of it without resorting to that." Usagi shakes her head.
[19:37] <Sailor_Mars> "For all we know, perhaps he doesn't want to use it himself?" Rei offers. "Anyone with an ounce of sense knows demons are bad news. But if the government is pressing him without really understanding what's involved..."
[19:38] <Sailor_Moon> "No way of knowing until I get to talk to him," Usagi replies, dropping down into a deserted alley. "I think this should be far enough."
[19:39] * Sailor_Mars nods. "Where to?"
[19:39] <Sailor_Moon> "Straight home..." Usagi glances back at Rei, a small smile on her face. "Unless you wanted to go to the Palace for a while?"
[19:40] <Sailor_Mars> "Let's go home," Rei replies with an odd expression. "I think Chibi Usa would prefer that, too."
[19:41] <Sailor_Moon> "She's probably taking a nap," Usagi says. "That's what she usually does when I need the Crystal for a while. But home is fine too."
[19:41] * Sailor_Mars nods, waiting for Usagi to teleport before she does the same.
[19:42] * Sailor_Moon closes her eyes and chants, teleporting herself directly to her own bedroom.
[19:43] * Sailor_Mars follows a second after Usagi vanishes.
[08:59] <Ana-away> ---
[09:03] <Ana-away> Late November... it's been a nice few days... though, unusually for this time of year, a snowstorm has blown in. One that brings several inches of snow, winds and wintry weather, rare enough for Tokyo as is, more so this early in the year. The weathermen even compare it to the great Tokyo Blizzard of last year as Usagi and Rei spend it keeping quite warm under blanekts with Chibi Usa...
[09:05] <Ana-away> Chibi Usa snuggles with Usagi and Rei, half asleep as she smiles and curls up. "This is nice," the girl murmurs, resting into Usagi's side.
[09:06] <Usagi-chan> "Sure is,"  Usagi says with a smile, one arm wrapped around her daughter's side. "Snow's not so bad when you don't have to go out in it."
[09:06] <Rei-chan> "Seconded," Rei murmurs.
[09:07] <Ana-away> "We didn't have much snow at home," the girl comments, "So it's nice to have it here... Mommy said it was colder back when Sailor Moon was around."
[09:08] <Rei-chan> "I suppose it's a nice novelty," Rei concedes. "I just hate cold weather..."
[09:08] * Usagi-chan giggles a bit. "I can't imagine why... although I have to admit I like summer better myself."
[09:10] <Ana-away> Nodding as the weatherman goes on about the two blizzards, noting the fact that they fell within a few days of each other, "Mommy said it was a result of..." she frowns, thinking, trying to recall the words. "the Big Freeze?"
[09:10] <Usagi-chan> "Big Freeze?" Usagi looks puzzled at that, glancing up at the TV.
[09:11] * Rei-chan also gives Chibi Usa a curious look at that.
[09:11] <Ana-away> "I don't remember what she exactly called it, but she said things got really cold for a very long time... Ice age, like in my schoolbook," she nods.
[09:13] <Rei-chan> "Wow..." Rei thinks back to her own science lessons. "I wonder if we're due for something like that here?" With all the doomsaying about the environment, and the simple fact that it has been a long time since the last Ice Age, it isn't so far-fetched...
[09:13] <Ana-away> The TV weatherman blathers on, nothing how unusual it is to have a single November blizzard, yet alone two years running.
[09:13] <Usagi-chan> "Did she say when it happened?" Usagi asks.
[09:14] <Ana-away> "Someone did something bad, and Sailor Moon couldn't stop them for a long time," Chibi Usa says quietly, a touch more concerned with working her side into Usagi and her legs by Rei's own warm tights and calves.
[09:15] <Usagi-chan> "Huh..." Usagi muses. "Wonder if it might have been Celcia?" she says, looking over at Rei. "The criminals hadn't escaped in Chibi Usa's home world, yet."
[09:16] <Rei-chan> "Hmm..." Rei mulls over that. "It's... possible, I guess. If she'd built up her power a lot before the senshi realised what was happening? Or even if not her, someone just like her?"
[09:17] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah. It DID take us a while to figure out that it was someone actually causing the blizzard, so if they didn't catch on fast enough..." Usagi shrugs. "If it WAS her, though, at least we won't have to worry about it happening here."
[09:19] <Rei-chan> "Not that long. She'd only been out for a day before we fought her," Rei points out, recalling that exhausting walk through the blizzard after teleporting to the Moon and back. "But if she'd went somewhere besides Tokyo..."
[09:20] <Usagi-chan> "Yeah," Usagi nods. "Could have taken a long time to find her if she hadn't come straight here."
[09:21] <Ana-away> As Chibi Usa starts to doze, the weatherman goes on again. "We expect up to a foot of snow in the Greater Tokyo area, with some spots recieving as much as 16 inches.  Juuban district seems to be getting the worst of it from our reports, with Nerima and Shibuya also having a wintry day. If you do not need to go out in this, we urge you not to go..."
[09:22] <Rei-chan> "Anyway, no sense worrying about it today. We'd have sensed something if this blizzard wasn't natural, I'm sure," Rei asserts, squirming slightly to adjust into a position more comfortable for accomadating Chibi Usa's legs.
[09:23] * Usagi-chan nods, smiling a bit. "True enough," Usagi agrees, leaning over to give Rei a peck on the cheek. "Besides, it gives us all a good excuse to cuddle up," she says with a wink.
[09:24] <Rei-chan> "Like we need an excuse," Rei retorts playfully.
[09:25] * Usagi-chan giggles. "Well, no, but it's nice to have one," she says. Looking up at the TV, "Looks like the whole city might shut down again this year."
[09:26] <Rei-chan> "Probably," Rei nods. "I sure know I'm not going to shovel any of that snow out there until the weather improves."
[09:27] <Usagi-chan> "I'm half surprised you aren't heating up the whole shrine again this year," Usagi says with a grin.
[09:28] <Rei-chan> "No real reason to bother," Rei replies with a small shrug. "Everyone's indoors, and if I melt the snow it'll just turn to ice overnight when I stop keeping it warm."
[09:29] <Usagi-chan> "I guess that makes sense - don't want to turn the courtyard into a skating rink," she says with a grin.
[09:30] <Rei-chan> "That would actually be kind of fun," Rei smiles a bit. "But turning those steps into a deathtrap would be less fun."
[09:31] * Usagi-chan groans. "Don't remind me - it was hard enough trying to get up them when they were covered with snow, I don't even want to imagine what they'd be like with ice."
[09:32] * Rei-chan nods. "Especially for old people."
[09:33] <Usagi-chan> "Oh well... guess it'll just have to be me and Chibi Usa to enjoy the shrine for a few days," Usagi smiles, snuggling up closer to Rei and Chibi Usa. "It's a burden, but I think we can manage."
[09:33] <Rei-chan> Snuggling up with the other two girls under the blankets, Rei turns the volume down on the TV, no longer terrible interested in the constantly repeating weather report. "I won't complain."
-------
Most of the events of the Splinter Game take place at approximately this point.
-------
[16:29] <Usagi-chan> -----
[16:31] <Usagi-chan> The Christmas holidays are always an enjoyable time of the year, more so when peace on Earth - or in Tokyo, at least - is a reality. After nearly a month of planning, Usagi and Rei head to the mountains for a well-deserved vacation at a popular skiing resort. A full week of relaxation lies in store for the pair... or so they hope.
[16:33] * Usagi-chan opens the door to the cabin the two have rented for the week, bundled up in coat, mittens, scarf, hat, and two more layers of clothing besides. "Brrr... too cold out there!" she says as she sets her suitcase down.
[16:38] * Rei-chan is dressed much as protectively as Usagi, with a warm coat and insulated trousers along with a scarf wrapped tightly around her neck and lower face. Shaking off the snow from herself as she follows the blonde inside and drops off her own baggage. "Have to get used to it if we're spending a week up here," she manages, her voice muffled beneath the scarf.
[16:40] * Usagi-chan closes the door, unwinding the scarf from around her face. The cabin is rather chilly - it wasn't heated before the two arrived - but it's sheltered from the wind and snow at least. The blonde looks around the small building with an appraising eye; it's a fairly small one-room cabin, with a kitchenette, a large fireplace, a couch, and a somewhat small bed. "Looks like it's a fairly nice room at least," she says hopefully.
[16:42] <Rei-chan> "Yeah," Rei nods, unwrapping her on scarf and gesturing at the fireplace, which promptly erupts in a pleasant little blaze. "So, what do you want to do, first?" she asks, moving her baggage off to besides the couch.
[16:43] * Usagi-chan grins. "Hot chocolate sounds good for the moment, but if you mean outside, I'm not sure. I want to do some ice skating, but I'd like to try skiing too - I've just never skiied before, and I've heard a lot of stories of people breaking their legs when they're learning to ski," she says, making a face.
[16:45] <Rei-chan> "Skiing is great fun," Rei nods quickly. "I learned when I was at T*A - we had trips up to the mountains in wintertime."
[16:46] * Usagi-chan smiles. "Maybe you can teach me how, then," she says. "I remember I used to ice skate a LOT back in the Silver Millenium - I was really good at it, too. But I've never tried it in this lifetime."
[16:47] <Rei-chan> "You should be fine," Rei affirms, opening her jacket. "You're not as klutzy as you used to be, after all."
[16:48] * Usagi-chan pulls off her mittens, unzipping her parka as well. "Thank god for that," she says with a grin. "I swear I used to trip over air."
[16:49] <Rei-chan> "You did," Rei replies flatly, though with a teasing smile.
[16:52] <Usagi-chan> "Geez, don't go easy on me or anything, Pyro," the blonde replies wryly, pulling off her jacket and draping it over the back of the couch. "You might hurt my feelings!" she says with a dramatic sigh, then breaks into a fit of the giggles as she explores the contents of the kitchen cabinets - the cabin was supposed to come stocked for the week.
[16:53] <Rei-chan> "Toughens you up," Rei retorts cheerfully, also coming over to see what they have for eating around here.
[16:55] <Usagi-chan> The cabinets are well-stocked enough.... if your roommate wasn't Usagi, that is. Most of the supplies are canned goods, although a note inside the pantry reveals the location of a nearby market where more food (and fresher foods) can be purchased. Usagi finds the hot cocoa mix, pulling down a couple of packets before going to fill a kettle and put it on to boil.
[16:57] <Rei-chan> Leaning against the counter as the kettle boils, Rei goes on, "So, after we get ourselves warmed up in here, we'll go over and get some skis and hit the slopes?"
[16:59] <Usagi-chan> "I guess that'll work," Usagi nods, going to stand next to Rei. "I'm really glad we could get to come up here together," she says with a smile. "Big group vacations are nice, but I've been wanting to do something a little smaller for a while, too."'
[17:02] * Rei-chan nods, smiling. "I just hope everyone back home can survive without us for a whole week," she says, putting an arm around the blonde's waist.
[17:07] <Usagi-chan> "I just guess they'll have to," Usagi says with a grin, leaning over to give Rei a kiss on the cheek. The two remain in that pose for several minutes until the kettle begins to whistle. Usagi perks up rather quickly, heading over to pour the cocoa mix and boiling water into a pair of mugs, handing one to the miko as she sips gingerly at her own. "There, I've done my share of the cooking for this week," she giggles.
[17:09] * Rei-chan snorts lightly, before drinking her cocoa a bit more enthusiastically than Usagi. After a few gulps, "Well, I have been trying to expand my reportoire," she admits. "I've been getting more and more complaints about instant curry being all I ever make..."
[17:11] <Usagi-chan> "Well..." Usagi says with a small smile. "You're definitely GOOD at instant curry," she says diplomatically, unable to really deny the charge.
[17:12] * Rei-chan sighs. "Yeah, well... Grandpa isn't exactly the person to teach a young girl how to cook, you know?"
[17:13] * Usagi-chan grins. "I'd think you'd be sick of instant meals by now, then."
[17:14] <Rei-chan> "I like curry," Rei pouts. "You can get all kinds of different meats and sauces, so it's not like there's no variety."
[17:15] <Usagi-chan> "Well, *I* can't say too much - I can barely cook anything either. Mom taught me to make blueberry pancakes once, and they came out all right, but she spent the rest of the morning cleaning up the kitchen."  Usagi blushes a bit at that.
[17:19] * Rei-chan chuckles, easily picturing that. Draining the last of her hot cocoa, she puts her mug in the sink before turning back to Usagi. "You're lucky, though. Your mother is a great cook - I'm sure you could pick things up from her given time."
[17:20] * Usagi-chan grumbles. "After the pancakes she refuses to let me in the kitchen, unless it's just to stir soup or something," she pouts, taking a long drink from her cocoa. "She's really taught Chibi Usa a lot, though."
[17:21] <Rei-chan> "It'll be embarrassing if she becomes a better cook than us..." Rei says with a slightly sickly smile. "I think I'm definitely taking home economics next year at school."
[17:22] <Usagi-chan> "At least someone in the family would be able to cook," Usagi mumbles, not too eager to take home ec herself - she remembers her last course in that at Juuban all too well.
[17:23] <Rei-chan> "Oh, well," Rei offers in a consoling manner, "When you're Queen you can just have your servants cook for you."
[17:25] <Usagi-chan> "That goes for you too, you know," Usagi says with a smile, rinsing out her now-empty mug in the sink. "You might not be the Queen yourself, but we'll still be together."
[17:26] <Rei-chan> "True," Rei nods, "But until then I have to fend for myself. You've still got your mother to cook for you most days."
[17:27] <Usagi-chan> "Well, if YOU don't mind instant curry, why worry about learning to cook?" Usagi replies. "I mean, you don't have to cook for other people THAT often these days - we barely ever meet at the Shrine anymore."
[17:29] <Rei-chan> "It's the principle of the thing!" Rei protests. "Besides, Hotaru has dinner at the Shrine with me at least a couple of days each week."
[17:29] <Usagi-chan> "So THAT'S the real reason!" Usagi says with a grin. "You just want to impress your little sister!"
[17:33] <Rei-chan> "Well... yeah..." Rei admits, blushing. "I didn't think she minded, but then when I started giving Ami lessons at the Shrine she jumped on having someone else cook." She snorts, "Ami's no better than I am, really, but just because it isn't curry everyone acts like it's manna from heaven or something..."
[17:59] <Usagi-chan> "So what's the harm in that?" Usagi says. "If you really want to learn it go ahead, but just because she likes Ami's cooking more than yours doesn't mean she thinks any less of you."
[18:03] <Rei-chan> "I don't like not being good at something," Rei admits plainly. "If it's possible to improve, then I should strive to improve. Besides," she adds, "You should be glad. If I become a good cook then I'd cook for you, too."
[18:05] * Usagi-chan giggles. "Well, I definitely wouldn't complain about that, but you don't have to do it for my sake," the blonde replies with a smile, heading over to retrieve her coat. "I just think you should do it because that's what you want to do, not because you think that's what someone else wants you to do."
[18:07] <Rei-chan> "I do want it," Rei affirms. "It's not like I'm making some big lifestyle change - I'm just broadening my horizons and learning a useful new skill. That's always a good thing."
[18:09] <Usagi-chan> "Well then, I guess it's no big deal," Usagi says, shrugging. "Sorry I made such a big deal of it - just seemed like it came out of nowhere."
[18:12] <Rei-chan> "It did?" Rei blinks. Seemed to flow along the conversation quite naturally to her. "Oh, well. Anyway, shall we be off to see about skiing?"
[18:14] <Usagi-chan> "Sounds like a plan to me," Usagi says with a smile. "You lead the way, though - I have no idea what I need to do for this."
[18:16] <Rei-chan> Replacing her scarf, Rei goes to open her suitcase, producing two ski masks and handing one to Usagi. "We'll head over to the lodge to rent skis and then we'll go the beginners slope until you get the hang of it."
[18:17] * Usagi-chan dons the mask, giggling a bit. "I feel like a bank robber or something in this."
[18:20] <Rei-chan> "Heh," Rei chuckles a bit, only carrying her mask for now. "What would people say about their heroine of justice, then?" she asks, grinning until she opens the door and is hit by the frigid air. "Brrr!" she quickly zips up her jacket, waiting for Usagi.
[18:21] * Usagi-chan quickly zips up her jacket, scurrying after Rei and shutting the door - hopefully the fire will keep things nice and warm for the two when they get back.
[18:26] <Rei-chan> Renting out their equipment at the lodge is a simple enough matter, and the pair soon find themselves at the top of the beginners slope after taking the skilift up, Rei explaining the finer points of the pastime to her companion.
[18:29] * Usagi-chan nods, listening carefully to her raven-haired instructor. "Okay... you go first," she says a bit nervously, clutching her ski poles tightly.
[18:31] <Rei-chan> Nodding, Rei places her goggles over her eyes and starts off down the slope. Twisting this way and that, she builds up quite a bit of speed, while refraining from any kind of fancy stunts or anything. Shearing up a decent spray of snow as she comes to a stop at the bottom, she turns and waves up to Usagi.
[18:33] * Usagi-chan follows at a rather slower pace, keeping the points of her skis pointed together to keep herself from going too fast as she slowly makes her way down the hill. She ALMOST makes it to Rei's position when she chances onto a small hummock in the slope, and in swerving to avoid it she goes over in a cloud of powdery snow.
[18:35] <Rei-chan> Taking exaggerated large steps, Rei works her way up to Usagi's position, leaning over the prone blonde. "You alright? You were doing okay up until the end, there."
[18:38] * Usagi-chan sits up, spraying snow everywhere as she shakes her head. "Brrr! Stupid bump," she mutters, casting a glare in the direction of the offending mound. "I was trying to go around it but I guess I didn't do a very good job of it."
[18:40] <Rei-chan> Shifting one of her poles so she holds them both in one hand, Rei offers her now free hand to Usagi. "You were going a bit too slow, there. If you went faster you could have made the turn without overbalancing. Or just jumped over the bump."
[18:41] <Usagi-chan> "Well, I was afraid I wouldn't be able to stop if I went any faster," Usagi mumbles, taking Rei's hand as she gets to her feet. "I guess we can try it again though."
[18:43] <Rei-chan> "That's the spirit," Rei nods approvingly, starting back towards the skilift.
[18:44] * Usagi-chan follows. On reaching the summit, she takes a deep breath, straightening herself as she approaches the beginning of the slope. "Okay, I'll go first this time," she says with a nod. "Besides, even if I leave before you do you'll probably still get to the bottom before I do," she says, grinning at the miko before she pushes off once again.
[18:46] <Rei-chan> "Good luck," Rei calls as Usagi starts down the slope.
[18:48] * Usagi-chan does a bit better this time, managing to go a bit faster as she makes her way down the slope. Upon reaching the bottom, though, she turns her skis to stop the same way Rei did - and promptly overbalances, flailing her arms as she flops over face first in the snow.
[18:59] * Usagi-chan has struggled up to a sitting position by the time Rei arrives at the bottom of the hill, frowning behind her mask. "Somehow I don't think skiing and I agree with each other very well."
[18:59] <Rei-chan> "Come on," Rei cajoles cheerfully, "You've only been at this, what, five minutes?"
[19:00] <Usagi-chan> "I'll give it one more try today, I guess," Usagi grumps. "So much for not being a klutz." She manages to regain her feet on her own this time, although it's a struggle.
[19:02] <Rei-chan> "Don't give up so easily," Rei chastises the blonde, slowly skiing backwards towards the lifts. "It's great fun once you get the hang of it."
[19:03] <Usagi-chan> "Well, we still have the rest of the week," Usagi counters, following Rei. "And it's fun for you, you're good at it. I keep worrying about making a mistake or something."
[19:05] <Rei-chan> "Alright, alright," Rei concedes, mollified that they'll at least do this again tomorrow. "How about after this we go find us some hot springs?"
[19:06] <Usagi-chan> "I guess that would be okay, but I was thinking about heading down to the lake. I'm kind of curious to see how much I can remember about skating - but it can wait for later if you want."
[19:07] <Rei-chan> "That works, too," Rei nods, unfussed as the pair settle into the lift to return to the top of the slope.
[19:07] * Usagi-chan snuggles up to Rei as the chair works its way towards the top of the gentle slope. "I have to admit, THIS part of skiing I like," she says with a giggle.
[19:10] <Rei-chan> "Well when we go to the steeper slopes we can do it for longer," Rei grins, eagerly snuggling back and indicating the far more treacherous looking areas higher up the mountain.
[19:11] * Usagi-chan shudders as she looks up towards the steeper slopes. "Are they safe?" she says a bit tremulously.
[19:13] <Rei-chan> "Depends," Rei shrugs, slipping off the lift as the complete their ascent. "If you're good enough, you won't have any problem. But if you aren't ready, or unlucky..." she shrugs again, "Breaking a few bones isn't unheard of."
[19:14] <Usagi-chan> "I'm DEFINITELY going to take my time before I go up there myself, then," Usagi declares. "But don't let me stop you if you want to go yourself."
[19:15] <Rei-chan> "I probably will, tomorrow," Rei nods. "Anyway, let's go," she pushes off down the slope, this time going slow enough for Usagi to keep up with her.
[19:16] * Usagi-chan does her best to match Rei's pace, actually pulling out ahead of the miko a bit as she pays less attention to the skiing and more to her partner. "Huh... hey, slow down!" she yells at her own skis, which resolutely refuse to listen.
[19:18] <Rei-chan> "Just relax, Usagi," Rei calls, increasing her pace and briefly cutting in front of the blonde before pulling up along her side. "Half your problem is you're too tense."
[19:19] <Usagi-chan> "I'm trying, but I keep worrying about messing up and getting hurt!" Usagi says back, sounding a bit panicked.
[19:23] * Rei-chan snorts. "Don't worry. Just trust in your body to know what it's doing. Here," she pulls ahead, cutting in front of Usagi once more as she arcs into a gentle curve, "Follow my lead," she suggests, slowing down as she gradually converts her momentum.
[19:24] * Usagi-chan does her best, finding her speed dropping as the two come around to the bottom of the slope in a graceful arc. Finally she stops... miraculously still upright.
[19:25] <Rei-chan> "There. Was that so hard?" the miko asks brightly, peeling off her goggles.
[19:26] <Usagi-chan> "I guess not," Usagi admits, taking a deep breath to calm her nerves. "It's just... I can't stop very well yet, and it makes me nervous."
[19:28] <Rei-chan> "Like in all things, practice will fix that," Rei nods sagely at her own wisdom, before starting towards the lodge. "So, ice skating, now?"
[19:29] * Usagi-chan nods, clumsily following Rei to the lodge in her skis. A few minutes to change their footwear and the pair emerge from the lodge, both wearing figure skates. Usagi manages to walk in her skates a bit more ably than in her skis, although her steps are still a bit wobbly.
[19:31] * Rei-chan follows Usagi, her own steps careful and measured as the pair start towards the frozen lake.
[19:33] * Usagi-chan stops for a moment at the edge of the lake to remove the plastic guards from the bottom of the skate blades before gingerly stepping out onto the ice. A bit of arm-flailing follows as the blonde tries to maintain her balance, but she manages to stay on her feet, finally calming down after a minute.
[19:34] <Rei-chan> "Anything coming back to you?" Rei asks, following suit onto the ice.
[19:36] <Usagi-chan> "A little bit," Usagi nods, pushing off as she joins the skaters making their circuits of the lake. Her first circuit is remarkably good, the blonde maintaining a steady stance as she progresses around the lake.
[19:37] * Rei-chan watches Usagi go, before cutting across the lake to join her halfway through her first circuit. "Better than skiing, at least," she smiles.
[19:38] <Usagi-chan> "Definitely that," Usagi says with a grin. "Let's see...." she says, a look of concentration on her face. With a small hop, she turns around in midair, landing to go coasting across the ice backwards - while keeping a close eye out behind her to make sure she's not about to run into anyone.
[19:40] * Rei-chan claps politely, lagging a few feet behind the blonde now facing her. "Looks like you've got a knack."
[19:41] * Usagi-chan giggles. "It's easier than I thought it would be - I still remember what to do, it's just a matter of putting it to practice," she says with a grin. Cutting out of the ring of skaters heading around the ice, she heads for the center, where a couple of figure skaters are going through their routines. Selecting a section of ice well away from the other two, she begins to skate, first executing a neat figure-of-eight pattern at high speed.
[19:43] * Rei-chan follows Usagi to the centre, although she skids to a stop to watch the blonde practice her moves.
[19:45] * Usagi-chan takes a deep breath, a broad smile on her face as the familiar motions bring the memories rushing back, of days long past. With a quick check to make sure her path is unobstructed, she closes her eyes, tensing as she springs into a single axel - and lands agilely on one skate, coasting across the ice backwards. "I did it!" she beams.
[19:48] <Rei-chan> Applauding at the display, and grinning at the triumphant expression worn by her girlfriend, Rei coasts over to rejoin her. "No sign of a klutzy Dumpling Head, here," she teases.
[19:49] * Usagi-chan giggles, panting a bit as she coasts to a stop. "I didn't think I'd be able to pick up that much so fast," she says with a broad grin. "I know I used to be REALLY good, but I expected it would take a while for me to even get close to that again."
[19:52] <Rei-chan> "Considering you can already remember most of everything from back then, I'm not surprised," Rei notes. "Got any more tricks to show off?"
[19:53] <Usagi-chan> "Maybe," Usagi says with a slight frown. "I MIGHT be able to do a double, but I'm not sure - it gets a LOT trickier when you try to do more than one turn."
[19:54] <Rei-chan> "Don't push yourself," Rei advises. "Just do what you're comfortable doing and work your way up gradually."
[19:55] * Usagi-chan nods, her frown fading. "I'm just excited that I can do as much as I can - I always had a lot of fun with ice skating," she says with a smile. "What about you?"
[19:57] <Rei-chan> "I'm no expert," Rei admits. "I've done it once or twice - and a few times back in the old days. But I don't really know any tricks like you just did."
[19:59] <Usagi-chan> "Maybe I can teach you a few things then," Usagi says with a smile. "Nothing TOO fancy, but pairs skating can really be a lot of fun."
[19:59] <Rei-chan> "I'd like that," Rei nods happily.