The Great Log Posting: Arc V

[Halbarad]

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.

[Halbarad]

[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.

[Halbarad]

[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...

[Halbarad]

[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

[Halbarad]

[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

[Halbarad]

[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."

[Halbarad]

[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.

[Halbarad]

[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.

[Halbarad]

[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.

[Halbarad]

[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.

[Halbarad]

[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."

[Halbarad]

[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."

[Halbarad]

[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...

[Halbarad]

[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.

[Halbarad]

[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."