Subject: [FFML] [FANFIC][SM] Tales of Younger Earth #6
From: Douglas Helm
Date: 6/6/1998, 8:46 AM
To: ffml@fanfic.com

For those of you who are wondering where the hell Chibi-Earth is, she makes
her appearance in #12.

Previous parts can be found at the adress below or via e-mail request.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Tales of Younger Earth
By Douglas "Candle Light Author" Helm and "Tuxedo" Will Wolfshohl

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

Those characters that are original and the story "Tales of Younger
Earth" are copyrighted (c) 1998 by Douglas Helm & Will Wolfshohl.

This fanfic and over 380 other SM fanfics reside in "Tuxedo" Will's SM
Fanfics Archive at http://log.on.ca/users/helm/anime/index.htm

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


Chapter 6 - Friendship, a Precious and Fragile Thing

As the private entrance door of the Royal Family Suite swung open,
Neo-Queen Serenity stalked through it and into the hallway. With
purposeful intent, she made her way over to Princess Usagi's closed
bedroom door and gripped the doorknob.

<Of all the irresponsible things to do...> Serenity raged to herself,
<Ordering her way in there.> Taking a breath, she prepared to yell as
she twisted the doorknob. But as she entered the room, her annoyance
went away with a whimper and she gave a little gasp at the sight before
her.

Sawa was sitting on Usagi's bed, leaning against the headboard, with her
eyes shut. Her mouth was slightly agape and a storybook had slid
partially out of her limp hand. Her other arm loosely encircled Usagi in
a warm and comforting fashion. What made Serenity gasp, however, was
Usagi. The little girl was snuggled close to Sawa, her face had a sad
and forlorn expression on it. Dried tracks marked the passage of her
tears but the most astonishing thing of all was that she was hugging
Sawa.

<Kami-sama, what happened?> Serenity thought as her annoyance fled for
the moment to be replaced with motherly concern. Gently walking over to
the bed, she reached out a hand and gently shook Sawa. Slowly the young
woman's eyes opened and she stared at Serenity for a moment in
disorientation. Seeing Sawa's eyes snap open in surprise, Serenity
quickly put out a finger to her lips and shook her head.

"She's asleep," Serenity said softly, "Sawa-chan, let's go to the study
where we can talk." She smiled gently as Sawa nodded and gently
disentangled herself from her charge. <I hope this is a sign that things
will get better.> Serenity's smile grew as Sawa gently laid the little
girl down and drew a comforter around her.

In silence, both women left the room and walked down the hallway. They
passed into the living room and over to the door leading into the study.
Serenity paused for a moment to glance towards the clock. "Misako will
be home soon. Let's stay out here; I don't want Misako waking Usagi up
if I can help it." Sawa nodded her understanding before following
Serenity over to the couch.

<You are so different from Sakuya,> Serenity thought as she looked at
Sawa, <You sit there politely with a passive, non-threatening expression
on your face.> It gave Serenity the feeling as if she were talking to
someone who had a "delicate" personality. "I had a very interesting call
today from Elder Uranus. It appears Usagi ordered her way into the
high-security prison; at least that's what I think that agitated
chattering was about." <I thought Haruka would blow a gasket.> Sawa's
mouth twitched slightly but that was the only indication of a smile. "I
take it you were with her?"

"I didn't see any danger in it, Your Majesty; at least, no danger that a
Sailor Senshi couldn't handle especially considering the type of backup
I had available from the regular security staff. Princess Usagi was
quite insistent about seeing Sakuya," Sawa explained.

"I know, Sawa-chan," Serenity said, "I just want to make sure I have the
facts correct. According to Haruka, the poor guard likely had a heart
attack when Usagi showed up." <Hai, you're different than Sakuya... and
I do miss dealing with her. I'm not used to dragging information out of
Usagi's guardian.>

"I'm sorry I fell asleep, Your Majesty," Sawa said after a moment,
"Princess Usagi..." she trailed off as Serenity gave her an amused look.

"Don't apologize," Serenity remarked, "I take it as a good sign that
Usagi and you have `an understanding'?" Sawa nodded but was still
looking skeptical for some reason. "Don't you ever think Sakuya slept?"

"Errr... Sakuya, sleep? While on-duty?" Sawa asked, "We think she's a
vampire or something." Sawa then quickly covered her mouth while her
eyes enlarged in shock. "Gomen, Your Majesty." She watched as Serenity
got up and went into the reading room. After a few minutes, Serenity
came walking back out with a thick book of some kind.

"Stop looking so shocked, Sawa-chan," Serenity suggested good naturedly,
"I'd likely think that Sakuya was a vampire too if I didn't know any
better; although I suggest you keep that thought to yourself when
Makoto's around. Given her present mood, she'd likely use you for target
practice." Sawa giggled at that thought. Sitting down, Serenity flipped
through what was obviously a photo album until she found one page.
"There you are," Serenity said as she indicated the picture, "Proof
positive that Sakuya sleeps."

Sawa looked at the picture blinked several times to make sure she wasn't
seeing things and then giggled. Sakuya was laying in a hammock, one leg
dangling over the edge. Her eyes were firmly shut while her mouth was
open. Both her arms were wrapped around a small figure protectively.
"Kawaii," Sawa said softly as she noticed a two year old Usagi curled up
and asleep on Sakuya's stomach.

Serenity grinned and explained, "That was a hot summer. I think it was
the combination of the heat and Usagi that finally got to her." She was
about to flip to another picture when she heard a door open. <Is that
Misako?> However, there was only the sound of the padding of feet down
the hall. <It must be Usagi.>

A short moment afterward, Usagi came into the living room rubbing her
eyes in an attempt to clear them. She came to a sliding stop when she
noticed Serenity. <Uh oh...> Usagi hazily thought. She gulped nervously
and then continued to approach the couch. "K-Konnichiwa Mom, how was
your day?"

"Fine, arigato, Usagi-chan. I heard you had a pretty rough one. Bossing
around prison guards and all," Serenity commented while placing the
photo album onto the table. Usagi blushed and lowered her head.

"Gomen Mom. I just wanted to see Sakuya," Usagi began to explain, "I had
to see her. She..." Usagi trailed off and only sniffled. She looked up
toward a noise and found her mother coming towards her. She gave another
sniffle and hopping slightly went to Serenity.

"It'll be okay," Serenity said softly as she hugged her daughter close,
"It'll be all right." As she stroked Usagi's hair, the little girl clung
tightly. "You should have asked me."

"Nani?" Usagi asked in a soft voice.

Running a hand over Usagi's cheek, Serenity gently lifted the little
girl's chin and said, "Usagi, you should have asked me if you could go
see Sakuya."

"I'd thought you'd say iie," Usagi explained meekly, "You wouldn't let
Sakuya go. You didn't want her to be my guardian. Why would you let me
see her?"

Sawa, sensing that it would be better to leave mother and daughter
alone, rose and walked over to Usagi. Kneeling, she said, "I'll see you
tomorrow, okay Usagi-chan?"

Sniffling a little, Usagi reached out and gave Sawa a hug. "Arigato,
Sawa-chan," Usagi whispered. She felt a little better when Sawa returned
the hug. As the young woman left, Usagi followed her watching her
closely before turning back to her mother.

"Usagi," Serenity said with a little exasperation showing through, "I
never said I didn't want Sakuya as your guardian. I said she wasn't your
guardian. There is a difference." Usagi took on a sheepish expression
but didn't offer and response. "I'm disappointed in you. Not because you
went to see Sakuya but because you didn't trust me enough to ask if I'd
allow it."

"Mom, you mean you would have allowed me to see her?" Usagi questioned
in disbelief.

"Hai," Serenity replied with a little more exasperation, "Sakuya is your
friend. I'm not trying to take that away from you. I just can't release
her and you know what would need to occur for me to do that." Tenderly
she brushed Usagi's cheek and continued, "I love you, Usagi-chan, and I
would never intentionally hurt you. Sakuya's been in your life too long
for me to simply toss it away."

"Mom, could... could I talk to Onee-san, please?" Usagi asked softly. <I
want to apologize but I don't know how. I don't know if Mom would
forgive me.>

"Not tonight," Serenity said, "You have homework to do, and I have to
make supper still for your sister. I suspect you haven't eaten yet
either." Stroking one of Usagi's pigtails, she said, "Want to help me?"

"Hai," Usagi chirped.

"Okay, go wash up," Serenity instructed. Giving her daughter one more
hug, Serenity stood and headed for her bedroom. <Time to get out of this
bloody dress.> Then pausing Serenity smiled. <Better tell Usagi to get
out of that school fuku. This might get a little messy.>

                                  ******

The next day found Princess Misako in a particularly good mood. Skipping
out of the classroom, she looked around and spotted Usagi just entering
the hall. "Onee-chan!" Misako called and waved, "Over here!"

Grinning, Usagi made her way through the throng of students to Misako
and said, "How was school today, Miko-chan?"

"Okay," Misako said. <It was hard.> "Onee-chan, come play with us."

"Gomen Miko-chan," Usagi said, "I have to talk with Elder Venus then I
need to talk to Mom." <I would like to go and play with you though. Or
even go to one of your practices.> "How was gymnastics practice
yesterday?"

"Why?" Misako snapped, "You never come so why should I tell you?" It
really irked Misako that Usagi wasn't coming to her practices. She was
proud of Usagi yet Usagi didn't seem to be proud of her.

"Aw come on, Imouto," Usagi pleaded, "You know I was really busy. I went
to see Sakuya yesterday." She gave her sister a pleading look but Misako
just pouted. "I try to come. Mom and Dad make me do my homework though."
<I'm not as fast as you are.>

"You never come 'cause you just don't want to," Misako pouted out.

Usagi was about to respond when a snide voice cut in, "Don't worry about
it, Miko-chan. You were really good." Usagi turned and glared balefully
at Kyama Yumeko. Yumeko returned the glare. The little girl was slightly
taller than Misako; she had short-cropped red hair and steel gray eyes.
Her features were a little boyish but she could never be mistaken for
one. "So if it isn't the `princess' trying to act like a warrior... or
is that a warrior trying to act like a princess?"

"Yumeko..." Usagi growled out. <Deep breaths. She's Misako's friend. How
on earth Misako ever became friends with this brat, I don't know.>

"You leave Yumeko alone. At least she CAME to my practice," Misako
pointed out. "Onee-chan, please come 'n' play with us."

"She won't come, Miko-chan. She's just too stuck up... trying to be a
`lady'." Yumeko grinned at Usagi as the older girl growled.

"Gomen, I didn't mean to miss your practice. I do have things to do,"
Usagi tried to explain. "I'll see you later, Miko-chan, Yuki-chan,
Yume-KO." Turning abruptly, Usagi stalked off down the hall. <Ignore
her, ignore that brat!> Usagi thought.

"That wasn't very nice, Yume-chan," Yuki commented softly, "Usagi is
busy." She gulped as Yume turned to her. "And anyways, you only saw the
end of Misako's practice 'cause you were takin' swimming lessons."

"Did I ask you?" Yumeko snapped while coming to tower over Yuki.

"Iie," Yuki squeaked. She desperately looked around for a solution and
gave a sigh of relief when she saw a blonde figure approach. "Konnichiwa
Younger Venus!" she called out. <I'm glad you showed up.>

"Konnichiwa Yuki-chan," Younger Venus said, "So, girls, what are we up
to today?"

"Hi!" Misako chirped while bouncing over to give Younger Venus a hug.
"We're going to have lots of fun."

"Like what?" Younger Venus asked while returning Misako's hug.

<Like ditching you, that's what,> Yumeko thought. Grinning at that
thought, she said, "Come on, Miko-chan, let's play that game we were
talkin' about at lunch." Turning, she started down the hallway.

"Hey wait up!" Misako called scrambling after Yumeko and taking Yuki by
the arm, said, "Come on, we gotta keep up!" Yuki for her part gave
Younger Venus a half-apologetic, half-pleading look before being dragged
down the hall.

<What are those three up to?> Younger Venus thought, <Ever since Yumeko
got into Misako's class, they've been nearly inseparable.> Although
Younger Venus liked Misako to have friends, there was something about
Yumeko that seemed to be, subversive. <Girl, you're imagining things,>
Younger Venus thought as she started quickly off after her charge,
<Yumeko's only a little kid.>

                                  ******

<Well,> Usagi thought as she stood outside Minako's office door, <Better
handle this better than that guard.> Taking another breath to calm
herself, she knocked firmly on the door.

"Come in," came the soft reply.

Opening the door Usagi stepped into the office. "Konnichiwa," Usagi
said, "How are you, Commander?"

Rising, Minako bowed and said, "I'm fine, Usagi-chan." Smiling, she
said, "You're in a good mood."

"Hai," Usagi chirped as she closed the door, "Minako-chan, could I talk
to you please?" Minako nodded and indicated that they should sit on the
couch. Once settled, Usagi continued, "I... I went to see Sakuya
yesterday."

"Hai, I heard about that," Minako said, "You caused quite an upset."

"Nani?" Usagi asked meekly, "Mom didn't seem too mad when she got home."
<But maybe that was 'cause I was asleep and Sawa and I were getting
along.>

"We were having a meeting when the phone rang. It was Elder Uranus
demanding to know if Serenity was going to go and `reign in' her
daughter." <She insisted on talking to Serenity.> "Apparently, you
breached several rules in pushing your way into see Sakuya." Usagi
flushed brightly.

"Was Elder Uranus very upset?" Usagi asked while looking sideways at
Minako.

"She was spitting fire," Minako remarked, "She wanted to know what type
of kid Serenity was raising by allowing such unorthodox use of your
position."

Squinting slightly, Usagi queried, "Un... unorthodox? What's that mean?"

Giggling slightly, Minako said, "Gomen, Usagi-chan, um... how best to
explain it. Unorthodox means you're not conforming." Usagi looked even
more confused at this point. "Let's just say that you used your
authority as princess in a way that was non-standard and it shouldn't
have been done."

"Why didn't you just say that in the first place?" Usagi questioned. She
then giggled when Minako made an exasperated noise.

"So what did you want to talk to me about?" Minako prompted.

"Oh, yeah... gomen, Minako-chan. Why haven't you gone to see Sakuya?"
Usagi asked.

Sighing slightly, Minako leaned back heavily into the couch and closed
her eyes. "I'm scared," Minako admitted after a brief pause, "I'm the
one that sent her away." Opening her eyes, she looked towards Usagi and
said, "I was surprised you weren't mad at me." Usagi shifted
uncomfortably but didn't respond. "Sakuya's mad at me. How could I face
her after what I've done?"

"Minako-chan," Usagi said after a bit, "Sakuya isn't mad at you." <She's
mad at me.> She fought the lump that wanted to form, <I can't cry. I
have to show Sakuya that I can handle this. I can't act like a little
kid.> "She asked about you yesterday." <That was before she started to
hate me.>

Minako looked with concern at Usagi. The little girl had slumped
slightly and a dejected look was on her face. "Honey, what's the
matter?"

"Nothing," Usagi said softly, "Please Minako-chan, go see Sakuya. She
wants to see you. To talk to you." Minako did not look too enthusiastic
about the prospect. <What's wrong with her? They're friends.>

"I don't know," Minako hesitated, "I... I just don't think it would be a
good idea. I'm the one that took Sakuya's life away. I'm the one that
kept her from being with you, from being a Senshi." <I threw our
friendship away. How can I face her?>

Fighting desperately for control, Usagi said, "Minako-chan, as... as a
friend, I'm asking you to go and see Sakuya." <Maybe this will help get
Sakuya back. Maybe this will make it up to her.> When Minako shook her
head, Usagi blew a breath out in exasperation. "Minako, don't act like I
did. Don't be like a little kid, go see Sakuya."

"I don't..." Minako started but Usagi cut her off.

"Minako, you aren't giving me any choice," Usagi warned. Minako appeared
confused. "Elder Venus, that wasn't a request. As Crown Princess, I'm
ordering you to go and see Sakuya!" Usagi stated with sternness, "This
means a lot to her." <It means a lot to me. Please, Minako, understand.>

Minako took on a hurt look but after a moment, it melted into a neutral
expression and she said, "Hai, Your Highness."

"Good, and make sure that it's soon," Usagi added. <You both need this.>
Getting up, she bowed, and said, "I need to go home now. Jamata ne,
Minako-chan."

Rising, Minako bowed as well, "Jamata ne, Usagi-chan." And with that,
she was left alone, with her own thoughts. <Give me an impossible task
to do, Princess, and I'll do it,> Minako thought, <But make me do
something that hurts, and I'll bleed.>

                                  ******

As Usagi entered the living room a short time later, she noted that Sawa
along with both her parents appeared to be waiting for her. "What's
going on?" Usagi asked.

"Usagi, I understand you wish to have a special talk with your mother,"
Endymion said, "I'm not sure whether you deserve this privilege or not."

Walking over to stand in front of the three adults, she turned to Sawa
and looked at her for a moment. "Hino-san," Usagi began nervously, "I
want to apologize for my behavior towards you; I have not been showing
the proper respect you deserve, gomen nasai." Bowing, she added, "I will
do my best to make up for my shameful behavior."

"Arigato, Your Highness," Sawa said, "I think if we work together, you
can make amends and this past behavior may be set aside." She then
offered Usagi a small smile.

Usagi turned to her parents and said, "Gomen nasai, I have been acting
like a spoiled little girl in wanting my own way. Okaa-san, I know you
don't have a choice in the matter and I was disrespectful and hurtful
towards you." She blushed slightly and said, "Otou-san, I was also
disrespectful of you in not doing what you said. Gomen nasai." Usagi
bowed her head awaiting an answer.

Endymion shared a look with Serenity before turning to Sawa. "Are you
satisfied?"

"Hai, Your Majesty," Sawa replied, "I feel Princess Usagi truly meant
her apology and I am satisfied." <I'm very proud of you,> Sawa thought
and she couldn't help but feel a little pride. <I won't hold it against
you. Sakuya made you swallow some bitter medicine and right now, you
need support.>

"So I take it, Usagi, you will accept Hino-san as your guardian?"
Serenity asked.

"Hai, Okaa-san," Usagi answered, "But only till Sakuya is released." She
saw Serenity thin her lips in irritation and said quickly, "I know that
you can't release Sakuya; and you were right, Okaa-san, I do need a
guardian." She gave Sawa a sheepish smile. "But I know Sakuya will be
freed sometime and that's when she'll be my guardian." <If I can ever
earn her trust back.> "I promise to listen to Younger Mars and stop
giving her a hard time."

"Well?" Serenity asked as she turned to Endymion.

Endymion frowned for a moment before sighing, "So we have an
understanding then? There won't be any more of this nonsense?"

"Iie Otou-san," Usagi said while giving her father the sincerest of
looks she could muster. <Please believe me.>

"Okay," Endymion conceded. He scowled as Usagi started to grin broadly.
"Just remember, Usagi, this is a privilege, a special one that can and
will be taken away."

"Hai, I know," Usagi replied and, hugging her father tightly, said,
"Arigato." Turning to Sawa, she said, "I know we were going to do
something today but..."

"That's all right, Usagi-chan, His Majesty and I have a few matters to
discuss," Sawa said and gave Usagi a wink. The little girl giggled as
she let her father go.

Just then, a very perturbed voice broke into the conversation,
"...finish your homework, Misako, and then spend the rest of the time in
the corner!"

"Aw, come on, Kimeko-chan," the unseen Misako whined, "It wasn't that
big a tree. 'Sides, we were havin' fun."

Endymion heard the word "tree" and bolted over to the hallway. "What
happened?" he asked as a very annoyed looking Younger Venus stood
glowering over Misako.

"Nothin'!" Misako pouted as she removed her other shoe, "Me 'n' Yumeko
'n' Yuki were just playin' when she ruined all the fun." She turned her
pout up towards Younger Venus, "I can do it at gymnastics so why can't I
do it with a tree?"

"Because Misako," Younger Venus said stiffly, "There's a thing called
mats around. The ground isn't as soft. Besides, you took off on me."

"She WHAT?!?" Endymion demanded now coming down the hallway.

"Well they were playing and I lost sight of them," Younger Venus said
while blushing slightly. "I think they hid in some bushes till I was
gone. Because when I was retracing my steps, they weren't far off." She
grimaced and commented, "If I hadn't have found Misako, she probably
would've gotten hurt."

"Aw, you just wanted to ruin our fun," Misako said sulkily. Then she
grinned, "It was funny," Misako giggled, "Kimeko-chan, you should have
seen the look on your face." The little girl giggled a little more as
Younger Venus gave her a sour look. "It... it looks like the one you got
now!" She then burst out into laughter while clutching her side with one
hand and with the other, pointing at Younger Venus who was scowling
intensely at her.

"Princess Misako, this is no laughing matter," Younger Venus intoned
sternly.

"She scared poor Yuki," Misako managed to get out, "Younger Venus asked,
`Will I need to inform Lady Kei?!?'" The terrible imitation made
Endymion smile slightly but he fought it off. "Poor Yuki... I bet she
ran all the way home." Gripping her sides, Misako doubled over in mirth
once again. <It was pretty funny watching Kimeko run all over the place.
Yumeko was right, it was fun!>

Standing near the entrance of the hallway, Usagi turned to Sawa and
said, "If I ever do something like that to you..." <If I had ever done
that to Sakuya...> Usagi shivered. She didn't even want to think about
it.

"You'll be dead," Serenity whispered out causing Usagi to flush
brightly.

"Thank you for bringing her home, Kimeko-san," Endymion said. Reaching
down, he snagged Misako's arm and lifting the little girl to her feet,
half-walked, half-dragged Misako into her room. "Now stand in that
corner. I'll be right back!" Endymion shouted. And with that, Endymion
came out and slammed the door shut.

"Younger Mars, I think you can head home now too. Arigato for dropping
by." Sawa nodded and bowed. Quickly walking down the hall, she picked
her shoes up, snagged Younger Venus by the arm, and disappeared out of
the entrance. "Well, I think Misako will be occupied enough that she
won't find out about your talk," Endymion observed. Usagi just stood
staring at him. "Nani?"

"Wow..." Usagi said, "When'd you start taking my side, Dad?" She then
giggled as Endymion scowled. Scurrying past her father, she went down
the hall to her room. "Mom, do you want me to do my homework now or
later?"

"Later, I'll come talk with you now," Serenity said and headed for her
own room. <I've been waiting to do with for a while. But if she
apologized to me, what does she want to talk about?>

                                  ******

When Usagi's door opened, Usagi jumped and, blushing, moved away from
the wall. Serenity gave her a curious look as she entered the room and
closed the door. "What were you doing?"

"That's new," Usagi observed as she noticed that her mother wasn't
wearing the same "Onee" outfit as the last time they had a talk.

Serenity glanced down and blushed. <I never even thought about it,>
Serenity thought. She was wearing an adult version of her Juuban Junior
High School fuku. <Me and Endymion were going to do a little playing
later on.> She blushed even more. Noticing how her daughter was looking
at her, she said, "Um, well... I... Usagi did wear this type of outfit,
ne?" Usagi nodded. "So what were you doing?"

<Why would she be embarrassed about that?> Usagi wondered. "Trying to
hear Dad, Onee-san," Usagi confessed as she moved to sit on the bed,
"It's been awful quiet in there."

"You just leave it between your father and your sister," Serenity
suggested. She then took up a comfortable position on Usagi's bed,
"Considering the trouble you've given Sawa, I'm certain your father's
ensuring that Misako won't be giving Kimeko any such trouble." Usagi
blushed even more and lowered her head. "Imouto," Serenity said softly
while reaching out to gently touch Usagi's shoulder, "I'm sorry if
you've been hurting lately. I wish I could have come in but..."

"I know," Usagi interrupted as she snuggled closer to her mother, "I
know I didn't deserve these. These talks are extra special and I was
givin' you a hard time." Hugging her mother, she said, "Onee-san, I'm
glad you could talk to me."

"I'm very proud that my imouto apologized to Sawa," Serenity commented
softly while hugging Usagi, "I'm happy that you're finally willing to
give Sawa a chance." Usagi sniffled a little. "What did you want to talk
about?"

"I want to apologize to Mom," Usagi answered softly. She looked up and
noticed the confused expression on Serenity's face. "Onee-san, I know I
said I was sorry but... I want to show Mom that I mean it. I want her to
know that I'm ashamed of what I've said and what I've done."

"There isn't any quick solution, Imouto," Serenity said softly, "Respect
and trust have to be earned. I love you, and you will always have a
special place in my heart." She gently brushed away the single tear that
rolled down Usagi's cheek, "Shhh... don't cry; make me proud. I think
you want to be a young lady. Show that to me, to your father."

"I will," Usagi said and sniffled again, "But... but how do I work
hard?" She looked pleadingly towards her mother.

"By being a good onee to Misako; by trusting and respecting Sawa. But I
think the biggest part will be learning that as a princess or even a
queen, you can't always have what you want." She stroked Usagi's hair
and held her close while saying, "Imouto, sometimes I wish I could be
Usagi again. That I could have a small house with Mamoru. Have you and
Misako as my lovely children. Have great friends."

"But you got all that now," Usagi pointed out confused.

"Iie," Serenity stated softly, "There's one important thing that's
missing. I don't get much privacy." Flushing slightly, Serenity said,
"I'm sorry I didn't knock. Your father and I are trying to remember that
you need privacy too." Looking at Usagi, she asked, "Do you want to talk
about what happened when you saw Sakuya?"

Clearing her throat and blinking rapidly, Usagi said, "I... I need to
ask you something first."

"Nani?" Serenity asked, a note of worry slipping into her voice. Usagi
was looking very seriously at her.

"Okaa-san," Usagi began, "I need... I need to talk to Her Majesty
Neo-Queen Serenity. I have to talk to Kimeko first though."

"Usagi?" Serenity questioned, "Wouldn't it be easier to talk to me now
or me as Mom?"

Gulping a little, Usagi said shakily, "Iie, it's really important and I
need an audience with the Queen." She looked towards Serenity sadly. "I
would talk to you, Onee-san. Or even Mom but, it's something that Her
Majesty has to hear." <Please understand.>

"All right, Usagi," Serenity decided, "Does this have anything to do
with what happened yesterday?" Usagi nodded slightly. "Did you and
Sakuya have a fight?" Usagi's bottom lip began to tremble. "Oh Imouto,
I'm sure it'll be all right. You've had fights with Sakuya before."

"She... she called me `Princess' Usagi," Usagi sniffled out. Feeling her
mother's arms wrap around her in a hug, Usagi's control fled once again
and she started to cry. "She hates me, Onee-san," Usagi sobbed out. <And
I may never get to see her again when I tell Mom what happened in the
past.>

                                  ******

It was later that evening and Misako was bored. After eating supper, she
had gone to her room to serve out the rest of her punishment. <Why are
they makin' such a big deal out of it?> Misako thought once again. <We
were just havin' fun.> She crossed her arms and glared towards the wall.
She then squirmed on her chair to try and get a more comfortable. <Why
does Daddy make me sit on this one?> It certainly wasn't as comfortable
as her desk chair. She sighed. <Daddy was really mad. And that was my
favorite dessert too!>

Her father had spent nearly an hour scolding her although Misako wasn't
exactly sure what for. It had started off as hiding from Kimeko but had
quickly turned into the dangers of tree climbing. Endymion had tended to
digress and make side comments on Usagi's behavior lately that Misako
never completely understood. She had spent a good portion of the lecture
trying to figure out ways how to lessen her punishment but it hadn't
worked.

Now though after eating supper, she was forced to sit in the corner and
stare at a very boring wall. Time seemed to pass slowly for Misako. She
had been even more annoyed at Usagi. <I can do my homework by myself!>
Misako testily thought, <I get mine done faster than Onee.> Usagi had
risked her parents' displeasure by offering to help Misako with her
math; that would have been fine except Misako thought that it should be
the other way around. It was just that their parents wouldn't allow her
to help Usagi. Misako was about to start thinking darker thoughts when
her door opened. Turning, she saw Usagi enter the room and she scowled.

"Whatcha doing in here?" Misako questioned.

"Miko-chan, it's time for your bath," Usagi responded.

"I can do it on my own!" Misako snapped while getting up, "I don't need
your help. 'Sides, I'm bein' punished. You're not allowed in here."

"I am, because I have to give you your bath," Usagi pointed out, "Now
come on, let's get this over with and maybe we can get Dad to read us a
story."

"I said I don't want your help!" Misako said in frustration.

"But Miko-chan, I want to help you." <Just like Onee did for me.>
"You're my imouto; I wouldn't want to see you get hurt," Usagi explained
while closing the door and walking over to Misako's dresser. "Now do you
want to wear your purple or blue pajamas?"

"Baka 'Sagi, I said I didn't want your help," Misako huffed out, "I can
take a bath by myself." Walking over to her sister, she added, "I can
dress by myself too! I'm a big girl!"

"Miko-chan," Usagi said with some shock, "What's the matter? I've helped
you before." <What's wrong? Is she mad at me?> Then an idea struck her,
"You're still mad 'cause I didn't come to your practice, ne?"

"You don't come to anything I do," Misako retorted, "Usagi, you're just
tryin' to act big for Mommy. You're just a goody-goody."

"I don't have a choice!" Usagi retorted with a mixture of exasperation
and sadness, "Mom and Dad make me do my homework first. I'm not as fast
as you are." She looked at Misako pleadingly, "Please Imouto, I really
do want to come to your stuff. I just can't."

Turning her back, Misako huffed out, "You're just sayin' that so I'll
like you." <Yumeko's right. Usagi's just stuck up; thinks I'm a little
kid or somethin'.>

"Wait right here," Usagi instructed and she left the room. Misako stood,
arms crossed, scowling at the door. After what seemed like an eternity,
Usagi returned and quickly entered the room. "Here," Usagi said while
presenting Misako with a plate that held that night's dessert. "Now,
Miko-chan, you gotta eat this and take your bath or we're both going to
be in trouble."

"But I'm not allowed to have any dessert," Misako argued, "Usagi, that
ain't nice to tease me."

Sighing slightly, Usagi explained, "I snuck this for you. It was hard to
get too with Mom and Dad watching the news." She pushed the plate closer
to Misako and said, "Please, Imouto, I'm trying to be nice. I could get
in trouble if Mom or Dad caught me giving this to you." Usagi smiled as
Misako took the plate and, picking up the fork, began to eat. "I do care
about you and I would really like to go to your practices." Seeing that
Misako was still looking dubious, Usagi added, "Would I fib to my
bestest imouto?"

"I guess not, Onee-chan," Misako responded, "But I'm not a little kid.
You just sit there. I want to take a bath by myself; Mommy doesn't watch
you."

"I know," Usagi said, "But Mom and Dad say that I still have to watch
and make sure you don't hurt yourself. Until they say that you're okay
to have baths on your own, I have to do what they say." Misako didn't
look happy about that. "What if you come and sleep in my room tonight?
We haven't done that in a long time."

"Daddy won't let me, 'Sagi-chan," Misako answered while blushing, "I was
bad... or Daddy THINKS I was bad."

After Misako finished the treat, Usagi took the plate and fork. Smiling,
Usagi said, "Miko-chan, you get ready for your bath and I'll go ask them
if it's okay." <And I'll hide this in my room 'til they go to bed.>
There wasn't much that could get her grounded quicker than subverting
one of her parents' punishments.

Misako looked at Usagi for several seconds before stepping forward.
Hugging Usagi, she said, "Love you, Onee-chan." <Arigato.>

Returning the hug, Usagi said, "I love you too." <I'm sorry I've been so
busy. I know Usagi was never so busy and she always had time for me. I
wish I could spend as much time with you.> Usagi squeezed a little
tighter for a moment and thought, <I'll try, Imouto, I'll try to be as
good an onee as Usagi was to me.>

                                  ******

Nervously, Elder Venus walked slowly down the hallway. She had rarely
been down this far in the prison and was anxiously looking around. <Get
a hold of yourself,> Elder Venus chided as she jumped at an unexpected
noise. <You're a Senshi,> she nervously giggled which caused her escort
to give her an odd look.

The clanging of the opening door seemed to echo Elder Venus'
nervousness. As the guard stepped aside, she looked into the cell, to
the woman who looked towards her. Nervously taking a step forward, Elder
Venus paused. Sakuya was looking at her with something akin to hurt on
her face.

<This was not a good idea,> Elder Venus thought, <I know Usagi ordered
me but to have to face her.> It was even worse than she expected; Sakuya
was looking different. <She looks older than I remembered.>

Sakuya bowed and then looked towards Elder Venus for a long moment.
"Thank you for coming to see me." <She looks scared,> Sakuya thought
sadly, <Why is she so nervous?> But deep within her, something rose, a
little black spot became visible. <You were my friend then you stayed
away.> It was a bitter thought. One that Sakuya didn't like.

Bowing in return, Elder Venus licked her lips nervously. <Oh Sakuya, to
see you in here. Why would you ask to see me? Usagi made it sound like
you missed me. How could you miss me after what I did to you?> They
stood like that for several seconds before Elder Venus finally worked up
the courage to speak, "Rakurai-san..." Elder Venus started but Sakuya's
hurt look deepened.

"Aren't I your friend?" Sakuya asked softly, "Are you scared I might do
something to you?"

Elder Venus blinked, and then blinked again. Had a tear rolled down the
woman's face? <Sakuya cry?> she thought, <That's...> She wasn't sure how
she'd classify it. Certainly unusual. Nervously, Elder Venus shifted
into her civilian form and gently walked into the cell. "I'm not scared
of you," Minako said, but her nervousness was in her voice.

Sakuya sat heavily on her bunk, and looked towards Minako with a strange
expression on her face. "Why didn't you come?" Minako shifted
uncomfortably, "Why didn't you come, Minako-chan?" Sakuya repeated.

"I... I was scared," Minako admitted after a few moments, "Scared you
wouldn't want to be my friend. Angry because I betrayed our friendship."
She looked towards the ground and added, "I couldn't take the chance
that you would hate me, Sakuya-san."

"You had no choice," Sakuya said, "And you did what you could." Reaching
out, she gently grasped Minako's hand to draw the woman's attention,
"You could have sentenced me to death. That would have been much worse."
Sakuya smiled slightly, "What is twenty-five years to a Senshi?"

Minako sat on the bunk, and looking with some surprise towards Sakuya
said, "You aren't blaming me?" <Sako-chan.> Sakuya sighed and slowly
shook her head. "But... after what I did to you..."

"You did what you had to do, Minako-chan," Sakuya said with some force,
"I committed some serious offenses and you had a duty to perform."

"Damn it, Sakuya!" Minako snapped, "How can you simply accept this?!?
You are going to spend TWENTY-FIVE YEARS in jail!" She glared angrily
towards Sakuya. "I've spent the time since the trial pining away because
I thought you were suffering and you have the gall to sit there and say
it's okay?!?"

Sakuya was silent for several seconds before saying, "Minako-chan, I
didn't say it was okay. I just said that you had to do it." Rising,
Sakuya walked to face the wall and paused. Turning, she said, "Gomen
nasai, I never meant for you to suffer. We could go in circles saying
debating who feels more terrible but that's a waste of time."

"I'd prefer that," Minako mumbled out and Sako gave her a soft smile.

"I know, what I did I did for Usagi," Sakuya stated, her voice catching.

"Usagi came to me and suggested I come and see you. She said I shouldn't
act like a little kid." Minako wrinkled her brow, "Something was
bothering her though."

"Hai," Sakuya said coldly, "Well I'm glad you came. We need to stop this
dancing around the issue. You felt badly and you thought I was mad at
you, ne?"

"Hai," Minako said, "Sakuya, do you know what was bothering Usagi?"

"Iie," Sakuya snapped, "I'm not sure at all." Her eyes flared menacingly
though. "She mentioned not acting like a little kid. I suspect that had
something to do with it." Sitting down beside Minako, she forced a smile
and said in a more pleasant tone, "And it's `Sako-chan', Minako."

Giving a squeal of delight, Minako hugged Sakuya and said, "Arigato.
Arigato, Sako-chan!" She then giggled when Sakuya sighed with
exasperation. "I guess what they say is true: every cloud has silver
lightening." Sakuya groaned in pain. "Nani?"

"It's a good thing I'm in here for twenty-five years," Sakuya said with
a wry smile, "I can avoid hearing your fumbled phrases." <Minako, I've
missed you so.>

"Hey!" Minako squawked in protest, "You be nice to me."

"Or what?" Sakuya asked.

"I'll show Misako that picture of you in the teddy bear outfit," Minako
said, a broad grin on her face.

"You wouldn't dare," Sakuya growled out.

"Just try me," Minako said and grinned evilly at her friend.

"Okay," Sakuya huffed out while crossing her arms, "But I still say
they're fumbled phrases."

"Don't worry, Sako-chan, I'll write them all down for you," Minako
remarked and, giggling again, gave Sakuya another hug, "I'm really glad
you don't hate me."

"Keep hugging me, Minako-chan, and I will," Sakuya grumbled. This just
caused Minako to giggle even more. <It's so good to see you back to
normal assuming I can survive it.>

                                  ******

It was a few days later. Kimeko had noticed a definite improvement in
her mother's spirits and she was happy that Usagi had finally managed to
talk some sense into Minako.

The delay between requesting an audience with the Queen and the actual
meeting gave Usagi time to think. It didn't help that the more she
thought, the more nervous she became.

Nervously, Princess Usagi shifted from one foot to the other. She along
with Younger Mars and Younger Venus were waiting outside one of private
conference rooms. Usagi glanced up towards Younger Venus and gave her a
nervous smile.

"Don't worry, Princess," Younger Venus said softly, "We'll tell what we
know and let Her Majesty make the decision."

"That's what I'm afraid of," Usagi admitted softly, "I don't know if
this is a good idea. Mom might think that it's reason enough to keep
Sakuya in jail." She sniffled a little and, looking towards the ground,
said, "I don't want Sakuya to be in jail though." <Not for something I
did.>

She felt a soft hand raise her chin and she saw Younger Mars kneeling in
front of her. "Princess Usagi," Younger Mars said softly, "I know that
it hurts. But you have to just believe that you will help set Sakuya
free."

Usagi was about to respond when the door opened. Turning her head, she
saw her mother. She curtsied and said softly, "Your Majesty." Similar
greetings were offered by the two Younger Senshi.

"Come in," Neo-Queen Serenity directed while stepping aside.

"Arigato, Your Majesty," Usagi said and stepped inside the room.
Nervously she stood beside the chair indicated by her mother and waited.
As Neo-Queen Serenity sat down, she did as well and gulped slightly.
<Maybe this wasn't such a good idea,> Usagi thought, <Maybe I should
have talked to Onee.> But it was too late for that and in the depths of
her heart, Usagi knew she had to tell the Queen.

"What did you wish to talk to me about, Princess Usagi?" Serenity
questioned.

"Your Majesty, I and Younger Venus have information that will help prove
that Younger Jupiter MUST be set free." Serenity's face crumpled into a
scowl. "Please, Your Majesty, hear us out."

"As you wish," Serenity said with a remote tone, "But I won't promise
that this information will help Younger Jupiter any."

Nervously Usagi licked her lips and said, "I... I understand." She
folded her hands together and held them tight, trying not to show her
nervousness. "The reason Younger Jupiter went back into the past was
because of me." Serenity never responded, only continued looking at her.
Flicking her gaze off to the side, Usagi continued, "It would be a long
time ago for you, Your Majesty, when you were Usagi. I... I was mad that
you were paying so much attention to Misako."

"This was during Misako's visit?"

"Hai, Your Majesty," Usagi said, "That is why Younger Venus is present
as well. She has information that I do not know." Turning her gaze back
to her mother, she said, "We were fighting a Lemure and Misako had come
down, I think she wanted to fight." Serenity nodded, a look of
thoughtfulness on her face. "It was the first time," Usagi clarified, "I
got angry and walked away from you."

"Princess Usagi," Serenity said, "What does this have to do with Younger
Jupiter?"

Usagi shuddered. She had fought desperately to suppress those memories.
She had fought an internal battle to stop from jumping at shadows. Her
breath started to shorten as she said, "Your Majesty, when I walked away
from you. When I was angry with Misako, I passed by an alley." She
shivered even more, at the thought of what might have happened in that
dark place. Of what might have happened to the others. "I..." Usagi
paused and took several shaky breaths, "I heard a noise and went
inside."

Seeing her daughter's struggle, Serenity got up and walked over to kneel
beside her daughter. Placing her hand on Usagi's arm, Serenity said,
"Usagi, Mesume, take your time." She reached up and stroked her little
girl's hair. <A young lady, but with little girl fears.> "If this is too
hard, we can do it another time. Maybe as an onee talk."

"Iie," Usagi replied while shaking her head, "I have to do this now. I
have to tell Her Majesty." She looked toward Serenity with a pleading
look. Serenity nodded and standing resumed her seat. After licking her
lips and trying to moisten her dried throat, Usagi continued speaking,
"I went inside the alleyway. When I heard you calling me, I transformed
out of my Chibi-Moon form." Serenity frowned slightly. She didn't like
where this was heading. "Someone saw me, an evil man." A few tears
rolled down her face.

"Nani?" Serenity demanded, "Someone saw you transform from a Senshi?"
Fears started to build within her, "This could hurt the timeline." She
was about to say more but Usagi was sadly shaking her head.

"Iie, they're gone. All gone," Usagi explained softly, tightly closing
her eyes to try and block out the haunting images. The voice, the pain.
"They shot me, with something. A knock out drug or something. They took
me and tied me up." Her voice cracked and she began to cry. A tiny
whimper escaping her; she had buried those memories deep within her,
tried to hide from what had to be done. From what Sakuya had to do.

Going to her daughter, Serenity hugged Usagi close and said, "Why didn't
I know about this? Why didn't any of us know about this?"

"Your Majesty, Younger Jupiter said that the timeline would be harmed if
we told Usagi. If we told any of the Senshi in the past," Younger Venus
admitted, "I wanted to tell Mom but I trusted Sakuya. I believed in
her." <I made a promise to her.> "Usagi wanted to tell you. Wanted you
to know but Sakuya wouldn't let her."

"Younger Venus!" Usagi snapped. She wiped her eyes and glared towards
the young woman, "You shouldn't have said that!" Turning to her mother,
Usagi said, "Please, don't be mad. Younger Jupiter knew that if Usagi...
you thought I was in that much danger, you would have made me to go back
and that would be bad." She looked pleadingly towards her mother. "I did
tell you. That night I had those bad dreams, they were about this; I did
tell you." Sniffling, Usagi closed her eyes and said, "I would have told
you but I promised Sakuya I wouldn't."

"Oh, Usagi..." Serenity said, a few tears rolling down her own cheeks.
She held her daughter close and said, "So Sakuya went to help you?"

"It's my fault, Your Majesty," Usagi choked out between a new bout of
tears. "If I hadn't acted like a little kid and took off on you, this
wouldn't have happened. I was jealous of Misako and it got me into
trouble." She gave a hiccuping sob and said, "Sakuya... she came back
because of me. Came back to make sure I was safe." She blinked several
times and added, "I didn't want to tell you. I didn't want you to be mad
at Sakuya for not telling you. She didn't do anything wrong. I was the
one that was bad."

Serenity hugged Usagi and said, "Iie, Usagi-chan, you weren't; you
weren't bad. You were all mixed up about Misako and I didn't help
matters." She had a vague memory of some of these events. She was angry
with both Usagi and Sakuya but at the moment, her motherly side was
firmly in control. There was always time to be upset and scold later.
Now though, her little girl needed comfort and she was the one to give
that comfort.

"I knew about this, Your Majesty," Younger Venus admitted, "She didn't
know if something would happen to Misako as well." Younger Venus drew in
a deep breath and let it out slowly before saying, "Sakuya knew that she
would face punishment when she came back. I tried to talk her into
staying in the past, not to come back. She wouldn't though. She believed
in her duty and facing the consequences."

Brushing away some of Usagi's tears, Serenity asked, "Usagi-chan, what
did you mean that all of them were gone?"

Usagi was silent for several seconds before saying, "Sakuya killed them.
To ensure that my identity was okay." Her voice was just above a whisper
and she didn't look towards her mother. "She had to do this because of
me. Sakuya is in trouble because I wasn't willing to share Usagi's
attention with Misako. Sakuya had to kill to save me, to protect all the
Senshi." Usagi gave a sob and she whispered out, "She did it to save me
and then I disappointed her." Finally giving in, she hugged Serenity
tightly and cried, venting her frustration and the emotions she had long
suppressed. "Gomen nasai, Mom."

"Shhh...." Serenity soothed, her own vision blurred with tears, "I'm
glad you told me." <You kept your promise. You shouldn't be ashamed of
that.> She rubbed Usagi's back and said, "I can't promise anything,
Princess Usagi. I can call a Royal Inquiry into this matter. You'll have
to testify, and Younger Venus will as well. It'll be hard, Mesume, but
that's the only way I can help."

"Will Sakuya be my guardian again?" Usagi asked hopefully.

"I don't know," Serenity admitted, "I can't promise that Sakuya will be
released." She felt her daughter's arms hug her and she sniffled a
little, "I know you want Sakuya to be freed. I know your heart wants her
to be your guardian. But I can't promise you something that I have no
control over."

"I love you," Usagi whispered out, her face hidden in Serenity's
shoulder, "I'm sorry that I didn't tell you before."

"I love you too," Serenity soothed, and pushing Usagi away slightly gave
her a gentle kiss on the forehead. Then hugging her close once again,
Serenity said, "We can talk about you not telling me later on."

                                  ******

As the last vestiges of late spring turned into summer, the weather grew
more pleasant. The flowers that had been but buds and then small flowers
were deep within the blooming cycle; spreading their colors throughout
the Palace and the city of Crystal Tokyo as a whole.

The slowness of the Royal Inquiry was grinding on Usagi's nerves. She
didn't understand why it was taking so long. It seemed very simple to
her. By the end of May and the early part of June, the Royal Inquiry had
finally been commissioned. It was to Usagi's way of thinking laboriously
slow and laden with unnecessary formality. As June continued to role
along though, the passage of time began to chafe on Usagi. She was not
the first one to be called, which puzzled her.

Finally though, it was her turn, but it seemed to plod along, mocking
her. The stress of testifying before an open court was effecting Usagi.
The first encounter with the Inquiry was not a pleasant experience. By
the end of her three days of testimony and questioning, she was in
tears.

However, the Royal Inquiry wasn't Usagi's only concern. She was
beginning to feel the initial onset of puberty. This strange and
sometimes scary period in her life was intensified by Misako. Her little
sister seemed to be constantly at odds with her and unable to really
understand what was occurring. It was frustrating having to deal with
Misako who was just a little kid.

Somehow, Misako didn't understand that Usagi needed to be a young lady
for herself, her parents, and more importantly for Sakuya. Usagi also
had no real desire to talk about the changes that were occurring within
her body. They were hard enough to talk about them with her mother, when
Usagi managed to work up the courage; but the thought of talking to
Misako about them made her nauseous.

Serenity was also finding it difficult. As Usagi started to chafe at the
passage of time, Serenity started to chafe at Usagi's thinly veiled
temper tantrums because of the length that the Royal Inquiry was taking.
If it hadn't been for Endymion's support and confidence in her, Serenity
would have yanked all her hair out by the middle of June.

                                  ******

The public celebrations for the Crown Princess' tenth birthday took up
most of the morning. It involved a lot of pomp and ceremony. Mostly, it
was various foreign diplomats presenting gifts and trying to get in good
with Neo-Queen Serenity and King Endymion; at least that was Usagi's
view of it. Although the weather was sunny, Usagi wasn't in a very good
mood. Sakuya was still in prison and she was in trouble with Misako for
"avoiding", as Misako put it, her gymnastics practices.

It was later in the day that a more private affair was held. Usagi was
seated at the head of the dining room table with a few of her friends
gathered around her. Also present were Younger Venus, Younger Mars,
Elder Saturn, Usagi's parents, Misako, and all of the Elder Inner
Senshi. Although the mood was festive, Usagi couldn't help but feel
empty at the absence of one person - Sakuya. Usagi hoped that Makoto
might have brought a birthday card for her from Sakuya but this was not
the case. Usagi was too polite to ask but it was a puzzlement. She knew
Sakuya was upset with her but she didn't think it was that bad.

Now though, those thoughts were buried underneath the more pleasant
thoughts of the day. "Onee-chan," Misako squeaked, "Open my present!"
Usagi grinned and, reaching out, drew the large box towards her. Misako
hopped off her chair and went around to see get a better view, her eyes
sparkling with anticipation. <This will make up for me hurting
Chibi-Shingo. Then 'Sagi will come and play with me and watch my
practices.>

Usagi didn't notice any card and made sure there wasn't any either
before opening her present. After removing the wrapping paper, Usagi
opened the box and blinked. <It's a whole box of drawings?!?> She
reached out and took the first one. "Oh..." she said, "It's me and...
Chibi-Shingo."

"Hai!" Misako chirped and clapped happily, "Good guess, Onee-chan!"

"That's very good, Miko-chan, arigato," Usagi said and carefully set the
picture aside. Then she lifted out the other one. <You know this is
going to take a long time.> "Um..." She squinted at the picture for a
second. "It's us?" she questioned looking towards Misako. The little
girl nodded happily, "But who's that?" she questioned pointing to the
figure.

"Uncle Shingo," Misako replied, "He don't look like he does in the past
'cause he's dead and be really old!" Usagi's friend snickered at this
farfetched logic.

"Arigato," Usagi said again and slid the second picture under the first.
Sighing silently to herself, Usagi looked into the box and stared. <A
teddy bear?> Her mind suddenly went into overdrive. She had to find a
way of thanking Misako for the gift without letting her friends know
what it was. <I'll never live this down.>

"What is it, Usagi-chan?" Hana questioned. Standing, she looked into the
box and promptly giggled, "Aw... that's so kawaii!" she cooed, "Wittle
Usagi gonna play with her wittle teddy bear?" She giggled even more as
Usagi reddened in embarrassment.

"Hana!" Usagi growled out as she lifted the teddy bear out of the box.
"Why did you get me this, Misako?" She tried to make the question sound
polite.

"'Cause I killed Chibi-Shingo. I don't want you to be mad at me,
Onee-chan. I don't want you to hate me."

"Oh Miko-chan," Usagi said and reaching out gave her sister a one armed
hug. "I think this is very special. I do love you and I'm not mad at
you." Usagi made a show of examining her new bear. It did look something
like Chibi-Shingo only it didn't feel the same. "Arigato," Usagi said
and tried not to blush as her friends giggled. <I'm not going to hear
the end of this,> Usagi bleakly thought.

Fortunately, Serenity decided to bolster Usagi's spirits and rising
walked to stand beside her daughter. "Usagi, your father and I have a
special gift for you." She then placed an envelope and a rectangular box
onto the table.

Looking towards her mother, Usagi carefully took the card and opening
the envelope, looked at the front of the card. It was a summer scene, a
long rolling grassy hill. The sky was blue with a few powderpuff clouds.
In gold lettering and a scriptive font, the front of the card read, "To
a very special daughter on her birthday." Feeling her throat tighten
slightly, Usagi opened the card. The inside read:

          You are taking the first steps into adulthood.
          You may fall but we will be there for you.
          Through the good times and the bad times.
          Our love for you will be eternal as is our faith in you.

          Happy Birthday Usagi,
          Love, Mom and Dad.

Usagi gently bit her bottom lip to keep it from trembling. Blinking
rapidly, she fought not to cry as she unwrapped the box. Carefully,
Usagi opened the box. Her hands trembled slightly in anticipation;
delicately, carefully, she pulled the cotton padding back and gave a
little gasp. She sat there for a good minute just staring at the
contents. Then with tenderness, she slowly lifted the necklace out of
its case. The chain was gold, and not overly thick. Suspended from the
chain was a rabbit's head, its features very real and life like. The
face and ears were gold with tiny strands of silver for the whiskers.
Two small red stones sparkled as they acted like eyes.

"Happy birthday, Usagi-chan," Serenity said softly. Gently, she took the
necklace and undid the clasp at the back. She saw Usagi shake a little
as the necklace was placed around her neck and fastened. Moving to kneel
beside her daughter, Serenity asked, "Do you like it?"

"Hai," Usagi replied her voice cracking. Then she gave a sniffle.

"We're very proud of you, Usagi. You're growing up into a fine young
lady," Serenity remarked. Usagi gave a little cry and hugged her mother.
"I love you, Mesume," Serenity said softly as she hugged Usagi. "You've
made me very proud of you."

After a moment or so, Usagi sat back and said, "How did you think to get
me this?"

"It wasn't just me, Mesume," Serenity explained while brushing some
loose hair out of Usagi's face, "I thought up the idea but your father
figured out how it should look. He designed it." <He spent days working
on it.>

Sliding from her chair, Usagi waked over to her father and hugging him
said, "Arigato, Dad, I love it."

"And we love you," Endymion said while hugging his daughter. And for
just the briefest of time, Usagi was able to forget her troubles with
Sakuya.

<Mom and Dad don't think I'm a little kid,> Usagi thought as she took
her place; her fingers gently tracing the minute details. <If I can show
them that I'm not a little kid, I can show Sakuya.> And for the first
time that day, Usagi was able to think of her friend without her heart
crying out at the emptiness within.

                                  ******

July the second was a Saturday. Misako would typically be spending her
time outside playing with her friends or with Kimeko and enjoying the
weather. However, this Saturday was an exception. She was standing in
the corner once again. This time, however, Misako wasn't bored or
confused over what she had done wrong. Instead, she was worried, very
worried.

<This game's not fun anymore,> Misako thought as she cast a nervous
glance towards the door, <Dad was really mad at me.> So was her mother
for that matter. She held her breath as she heard footsteps go by her
door but they continued down the hall into the living room. <I don't
feel so good.> She looked down and noticed that her clothes were rumpled
and dusty. She was wearing a blue T-shirt and a pair of green-yellow
shorts; reaching down and rubbed the bandage on her knee as the scrape
there started to itch.

It had at been fun to try and get away from Kimeko. Yumeko was really
good at it. What had changed though was her father; Endymion had been
fairly easy going, either assigning corner time or scolding her. It
always seemed that he didn't really mind Misako taking off on Kimeko.
However, that had all changed this morning.

<I hope Yuki's okay,> Misako thought, <If we weren't tryin' to get away
from Kimeko, then Yuki wouldn't have gotten hurt.> That was the big
difference from the other times: someone had gotten hurt. Also Misako
had broken a promise to Endymion. <I promised Daddy I wouldn't run away
from Kimeko. But it was fun...> Somehow though, she couldn't call up the
excitement from the time before. <Yumeko was worried that Yuki got
hurt.> This was a bit of a surprise to Misako. Yumeko typically gave the
impression she didn't like Yuki. <Yuki's getting like Onee, she tripped.
But I never saw Onee fall into a tree before.> That image caused Misako
to sniffle. Everything seemed to have gone horribly wrong.

<It's all Onee's fault,> Misako thought darkly, fighting her own guilt.
<She promised to come to my practice yesterday but didn't come. Even
Daddy didn't come.> She pouted slightly. <Usagi no baka odango atama!>
Yumeko had been right: Usagi was just trying to impress her parents by
acting stuck up. And they weren't letting Misako act like a big girl
because Kimeko HAD to watch her.

The door quietly opened then, drawing Misako from her thoughts. She
turned to see her father entering the room. Quickly she turned to face
the wall once again, her breathing becoming shallower as her nervousness
increased. She heard her father sit down on her bed and then the room
was quiet.

"Miko-chan, please come here," Endymion instructed. Misako relaxed
slightly; he didn't sound too upset. At least, he hadn't used her full
name like when he stood her in the corner.

When she had slowly walked to stand in front of Endymion, she clasped
her hands behind her back and lowered her head. She flicked a guilty
look towards Endymion and said softly, "Gomen nasai, Daddy."

"Why are you apologizing?" Endymion asked.

"I... I broke my promise," Misako said and blushed, "I ran away from
Kimeko and I didn't stay with her."

"And now Yuki got hurt," Endymion finished for her. Misako only offered
a sniffle in response. "Do you know why I didn't want you to run away
from Kimeko?"

"You don't want me to get hurt?" Misako asked while rising her head to
look fully at Endymion. Endymion nodded, a serious expression now on his
face, "But Daddy, Onee gets to do stuff by herself. I'm a big girl too.
I can dress myself and get a bath and brush my teeth." She looked
pleadingly towards her father. "I didn't want Yuki to get hurt but I
want to do stuff by myself."

"Misako, you're not even seven yet," Endymion explained, "Usagi is ten
and even she has to keep Sawa around."

"Nuh uh," Misako argued, "I saw 'Sagi swimmin' without Sawa around. I
asked 'Sagi where Sawa was. 'Sagi said Sawa was busy."

"Why did you break your promise, Misako?" Endymion asked, "You did
promise to stay with Kimeko, ne?"

"Hai," Misako squeaked out and blushed again, "I'm a big girl like Onee.
I should get to do stuff by myself." Endymion looked towards her
quizzically. "Daddy, I don't want 'Sagi watchin' me take a bath."

"Misako," Endymion said with some sternness, "We aren't talking about
you and baths. We are talking about you breaking a promise to stay with
Kimeko and not run away. We are talking about Yuki getting hurt because
you ran away from Kimeko." Misako lowered her head and scuffed the
carpet with her foot. "I've tried talking to you about this, Misako.
I've tried using time-outs. I even thought you were big enough to be
grounded."

Misako looked nervously towards her father and gulped, she didn't like
where this was headed. "Daddy, please, I didn't want Yuki to get hurt.
Yume went to get help. She told Kimeko." She looked pleadingly towards
her father. "I promise to stay with Kimeko."

"You promised that before, Misako," Endymion observed, "How do I know
you're not going to break this promise too?"

"Do you think I fibbed?" Misako asked softly, her eyes now enlarging
with fear. "I promise to be really, really good!" She stepped forward
and hugged her father, "Please Daddy?" She looked up and allowed her
odangos to droop as her eyes sagged. "Pretty please, don't be mad?"

"Gomen nasai, Misako, you knew that running away from Kimeko was wrong,"
Endymion explained, "I've tried to give you all the chances I could. You
proved that you need Kimeko to look after you when you're with the
others. I don't want you getting hurt." Sighing, Endymion stroked his
daughter's hair and said, "Mesume, do you know why I don't want you to
get hurt?"

"'Cause you love me, Daddy?" Misako asked softly.

"Hai," Endymion said, "I know you want to be a big girl. And I know you
want to do things on your own. But even your onee has to have Sawa
around." He brushed her cheek and said, "Do you remember what Usagi was
talking about?"

"About that bad man?" Misako asked softly.

"Hai, what happened?" Endymion asked again.

Misako was silent for several seconds then replied, "That bad man tried
to hurt Onee." A tear rolled down her cheek. "He was mean." Her voice
was throaty, sounding both sad and angry.

"If you don't stay with Kimeko, someone might take you," Endymion
lectured gently, "That would make me and Mommy and Usagi very sad."
Misako sniffled again and he drew her into a hug. "We don't want to see
you get hurt. Usagi has to stay with Sawa just like you have to stay
with Kimeko."

"Daddy," Misako said softly, "Are you gonna ground me?" A knot formed in
her stomach as Endymion shook his head.

"Iie, gomen. I've tried to give you all the chances I could. This is
very serious, Misako." He gave his daughter a sad look, "I'm going to
spank you."

Misako's face crumpled and she began to cry. Her crying grew a little
louder as she was placed across Endymion's lap. "I'll be good!" Misako
said pleadingly. Then as she felt Endymion place his hand on the small
of her back, she cried out, "I promise, Daddy!!!"

It was no use though. Endymion applied five rapid and firm swats to
Misako's rear. The little girl's crying increased in intensity with
every swat. After the last swat landed, Endymion paused slightly before
lifting his daughter up before standing her on her feet. "Tsukino
Misako," he said sternly while looking at her, "You're to stay with
Kimeko, DO YOU UNDERSTAND?"

"Hai Daddy," Misako sobbed out and gave a hiccup. Her face was red from
crying and she wiped at her eyes to clear away the tears. "Go... Gomen
nasai..." she choked out through her tears as she rubbed her bottom.

"I know you are, Miko-chan," Endymion said and drew her close to him, "I
don't like to punish you." <I know you don't really believe that now but
it's true. Serenity was giving me flak for being so forgiving of you
when I was hard on Usagi.> They were completely different cases but
Serenity did have a point.

Hiccuping a couple of times, Misako asked softly, "Do you still love
me?"

"I love you, Miko-chan, and I always will," Endymion said. As the little
girl hugged him, Endymion stroked her hair and rubbed her back. "I know
you want to be a big girl. If you stay with Kimeko and listen to what
she says, maybe your mother and I can give you a later bedtime."

"Really?" Misako sniffled out as she looked up, Endymion nodded. "I
promise I'll be EXTRA good."

"Iie," Endymion said gently while brushing a few tears away, "Just be
good, that's all I want." Delicately, he lifted her into a hug. Mindful
of her tender bottom, he held her close. "Give me a hug, then I want you
to stand in the corner until lunch time."

Misako looked like she was going to argue this point but giving a small
sigh hugged Endymion. "'Kay Daddy," she squeaked and then gave a giggle
as Endymion tickled her.

                                 ******

Later that evening, Usagi helped Misako get ready for bed after her
bath. Misako had been quiet, but resistant to Usagi. It had come to the
point of Usagi needing to threaten to tell their parents that Misako
wasn't cooperating to get her into the furo. Now as Usagi brushed the
little girl's hair, Misako stayed stubbornly silent. When she was
finished brushing Misako's freshly washed hair, Usagi gave the little
girl a hug. "I think Yuki will be okay, Imouto." There wasn't any
response except a sniffle. "What's the matter, Miko-chan?" Misako only
sniffled a little more. Setting down the brush, Usagi lifted the little
girl onto the bed and looked into Misako's moist, sky blue eyes. "Why
are you crying?"

Blinking, Misako looked towards Usagi for a moment and then said softly,
"You hate me."

"Nani?!?" Usagi demanded, "Misako, I don't hate you."

"You do!" Misako retorted, anger showing in her voice, "I tried to be
real nice to you. But you didn't come to my practice yesterday." She
crossed her arms and said angrily, "And you didn't want to come and play
with us. Yumeko even wanted you to come; you were really mean to her!"

Usagi shifted slightly under her sister's intense gaze. <I didn't really
mean to yell at Yumeko. I thought it was some type of trick.> But the
damage was done. "Imouto, I would have come. But your practices are
after school, I have to do my homework then."

"Nuh uh!" Misako retorted, "I had a late practice yesterday. I told you
that 'fore! I was gonna get you when we left but you were hiding on me."
The little girl stuck out her bottom lip in a pout as she stared
accusingly towards Usagi.

"Misako, I had to go with Mom then. We were invited to a party
yesterday." Usagi groaned as soon as the words had left her mouth.
<Kami-sama, Mom's going to kill me! Misako wasn't supposed to know!>

An intensely angry look came across Misako's young features. Gripping
her fists she, shouted, "You went without me! You had fun with Mommy
without me?!?" Angrily wiping the new set hot tears that sprung from her
eyes, Misako yelled, "You hate me! You just don't want me around!"
Turning, she flung herself onto the bed and grabbing her pillow pulled
it over her head. "GO 'WAY!!!!"

<Oh Misako, I wish you could understand. These people only want to see
me because I'm the Crown Princess. To them, you aren't important.> But
to Usagi, Misako was very important, and it was frustrating that she was
never able to really express what she felt. "Miko-chan, please, I don't
hate you. I love you."

"You're just like 'fore... when we were little!" Misako cried in a
muffled voice, "You want me to go away."

"Iie!" Usagi pleaded, "Don't say that, Miko-chan." Memories of the other
timeline where there was no Misako came flooding back. She placed a hand
on Misako's back and said, "I want you around. I love you and I would
never, ever want to get rid of you." She tried to pull the pillow away
but Misako had a tight grip on it. "Do you know what Mom would do to me
if I said I wanted to get rid of you now?"

There was a long pause and then Misako pulled her head out from under
the pillow to look at Usagi. "She'd love you... She'd do what you wanted
and get rid of me." Misako cried out, "Mommy doesn't want me around
either!"

Usagi was flabbergasted; she stared at Misako. <What in the name of the
Moon is going on with her?!?> Usagi thought. Deciding for the moment to
fight the easier battle, Usagi said softly, "Miko-chan, I'm very proud
of you." After a moment or so, Misako blinked. "I... I wish I could get
my homework done as fast as you can. You're very smart and get good
grades. I bet you're really good at gymnastics and I DO want to see
you." Misako crossed her arms and gave her a dubious expression while
sniffling. "You have a big meet coming up Monday, July fourth, ne?"

"Hai," Misako said, her voice thick and croaky sounding. Now looking
quite surprised at her sister, Misako asked, "Onee-chan, how come you
know?" She gave a hiccup and sniffled a little.

"I told you, Miko-chan, I wanted to come and see you," Usagi replied
with strained patience, "I'll come and see you then."

"You promise?" Misako asked seriously.

"Hai, I promise that I will come and see you at the meet on Monday."
<I'll do my homework during lunch.>

"'Kay, Onee-chan, I believe you," Misako said reluctantly.

"Misako, I would never fib to you. I made a promise and I'm going to
keep it," Usagi said while hugging her sister, "It's time for bed. I
know you don't get any story tonight so you have a good sleep."

"'Kay," Misako said softly and without returning the hug slid beneath
the sheets. Usagi felt a little sad but after giving Misako another hug
and a kiss on the forehead, left the room feeling that something had
finally been accomplished.

                                 ******

Whether by luck, or some wicked twist of fate, the weather on July the
fifth was stormy. Heavy dark clouds hung over the city sending sheets of
rain cascading down to earth. A stiff northeasterly wind blew hard
causing the rain to turn into stinging sheets of watery coldness.

Standing by her window, after school, Misako looked bleakly out upon the
world. It was how she was feeling today. A streak of lightning lit the
sky and Misako wished she could grab a hold of it and throw it at Usagi.
A twitch of a smile spread across her face as she thought about that but
it soon resumed its somber air.

Unconsciously, she ran her hand back to the single ponytail that hung
there. She had been furious with Usagi this morning; she still was. When
her sister had come in to help put up her hair in its traditional
odangos, Misako had pointedly and angrily refused. <Mommy said that was
Usagi's job,> Misako darkly thought, <Mommy's always taking On...
Usagi's side.> So she had went to school wearing her hair down past her
shoulders.

Hearing a noise behind her, she glanced over to see the door slowly
opening. She scowled. "Who is it?" she asked. Her scowl deepened as
Usagi peeked around the door into the room. "Go away!" Misako snapped
sternly and turned her head back to look out the window once again. She,
at first, was satisfied to hear the door close; however, that didn't
last long. Instead, the satisfaction was replaced by anger as she heard
the soft padding of feet across her carpet.

Turning around, Misako opened her mouth in preparation to yell but
stopped. Usagi was dressed in a pair of blue overalls and was wearing a
red T-shirt. "Miko-chan," Usagi said softly, "Why don't you get some
play clothes on and we can play together." Closing her mouth, Misako
turned and stared out of the window once again. What was the use in
arguing? Her mother didn't seem to understand what Usagi had done. In
fact, she seemed to be condoning what Usagi had done, and that hurt
Misako deeply.

"Go away, Usagi," Misako said softly.

Stepping closer, Usagi tried to explain, "Imouto... Miko-chan, I tried.
I really did." She reached out but stopped herself. Withdrawing her
hand, Usagi continued to talk, "I did my homework at lunch. I thought
that way Mom would let me go with you." Misako turned her head to look
at her and Usagi tried to smile. "Please Miko-chan understand. It was
all set to go but Mom dragged me to some boring party." <Aw...
Kami-sama!> Usagi thought violently, <I shouldn't have mentioned the
party.> Misako turned away, her body trembling slightly. "Aw, come on,
Misako... it WAS a boring party. All they wanted to do was talk about
was stuff that didn't make much sense. I had to get all dressed-up."
Usagi wrinkled her nose at that thought and she felt an itching
sensation come over her. <Even the fireworks weren't that great.> But
Usagi avoided mentioning those.

"Go away, Usagi," Misako repeated in a low voice but it was strained,
"You fibbed to me. You broke your promise." Her anger grew as she
thought, <I broke my promise and I got spanked. Mommy likes Usagi to
break her promises.>

"Misako, Mom MADE me go. I told her that I promised you," Usagi argued.

"You asked Mommy to make you go so you could fib to me," Misako
countered, her voice growing in volume. Turning, she glared towards
Usagi.

<Gotta find something to distract her,> Usagi thought and, glancing
around the room, noticed something new. "Wow! Did you win that?" She
indicated the new medal hanging from the wall.

"Yeah, you woulda saw me get it, if you hadda come," Misako growled out,
her eyes burning with anger. "But it's only third place. Why would you
care?"

"Misako!" Usagi snapped, "Stop thinking I don't care! I do. I did my
homework yesterday at lunch so that I could come and see you. I didn't
know Mom was going to MAKE me go to that party." Taking a few deep
breaths, Usagi said, "I'm sorry I let you down; I would have came if I
could."

Balling up her fists, Misako stomped over to stand directly in front of
her sister. Glaring up at Usagi, she growled out, "I wish that bad man
had kept you. I wish you hadn'ta come back. I was happy 'fore you came
back from past! At least, Mommy loved me!" Sniffling, Misako gave Usagi
a tremendous push while shouting, "NOW GET OUT!!!!" With a little sob,
Misako turned back to the window.

Usagi stumbled backwards and then tripped, landing heavily on the
ground. She lay there for a second or so trying to gain her breath back.
<Oh Misako...> Usagi thought sadly, her eyes filling with tears, <Please
Misako, believe me.> Standing up, Usagi headed for the door. <I'll make
it up to you.> She fought off the sniffle that wanted to come, instead,
she said, "I love you, Miko-chan... and I promise I'll make it up to
you." There was only a little sob that cut deeply into Usagi's heart.
<Gomen nasai, Imouto,> Usagi sadly thought as she left the room.

She paused in the hallway, her hand resting on the doorknob. <Misako
said that Mom would send her away. But should I tell Mom?> She fought a
brief internal battle before coming to a decision. <Iie, Mom might
punish her. That's the last thing I need. Misako already thinks I got
her into trouble.> Giving one more sad look towards the door, Usagi
walked down the hallway and into her room. She wished she were in the
past, then she and Misako could be happy once again.

                                 ******

Two days later, Misako still wasn't happy over Usagi's deceit but at
that moment, it didn't matter. She was curled up in her father's lap,
drowsily watching videos. The gymnastics practice that afternoon had
been a tough one and she was sleepy. They were waiting for Usagi to come
home from school. She felt her father's arms gently hugging her, his
slow and steady breathing along with his heartbeat were causing her to
relax even more. Her eyelids were closing no matter how hard she tried
to fight to keep them open.

She finally gave up and, snuggling a little closer before allowing her
eyes to completely shut. "Don't go to sleep on me, Miko-chan," Endymion
said softly, "How are you going to help me with supper if you're
sleeping?"

"Not hungry, Daddy," Misako yawned and shifted so she could hug her
father, "too sleepy." Endymion chuckled and started to gently rub her
back. Like any of the Tsukino line, sleep was about the only thing that
could overcome their typically insatiable hunger.

Misako was on the brink of sleep when Usagi's voice broke in, "I'm
home!"

<Baka odango atama Onee!> Misako thought darkly as she opened one eye to
scowl towards the doorway into the hall. "Quiet, Usagi, I'm tryin' to
sleep!" she snapped as her sister entered the living room.

"Now, Misako, be nice," Endymion gently admonished, "Now, Usagi, why are
you late today?"

"Well, Dad, I got detention," Usagi explained. Taking a note for her
fuku skirt pocket, she handed it to her father and then looked towards
Misako hopefully. <Boy, you were great yesterday! I think if even tried
some of those things, I'd fall flat on my face.>

After reading the note, Endymion stated, "You got detention for your
homework being incomplete? Why? Yesterday was a Senshi practice, ne? We
have a deal about that. You're to do your homework right after supper. I
know you had a long running one yesterday but..." he trailed off as
Usagi began to blush. <What has she been up to? It couldn't have been
anything too serious because I didn't hear anything from Sawa and
Serenity never mentioned anything before she left.>

<I did it for you, Misako. I hope you believe me,> Usagi thought, <Dad
isn't going to like what I did; I can't really blame him though.> She
knew she was going to be punished, but to Usagi it was all worth it. She
had finally seen Misako at gymnastics. <I was really impressed,> Usagi
thought again, trying to stave off her fate, <I think you'd make a great
Senshi.> Endymion cleared his throat drawing Usagi from her thoughts.
She bloused again and clasped her hands behind her back. Trying to look
innocent, she sent one more look towards Misako before turning back to
her father. "Uh... well," Usagi began and fidgeted, "You see... well...
I didn't go to the Senshi practice." At her father's sternly questioning
look, Usagi continued, "I went to see Misako's practice. I didn't think
it would go on that long, though."

"So you skipped your homework and lied to us to cover up that you went
to Misako's practice?" Endymion questioned as he slid Misako from his
lap and stood.

<Aw... Daddy!> Misako thought, <I was nice and warm.> She felt like
pouting but instead glared at the disruption in her peaceful afternoon.
<Chibi Usagi no baka odango atama!!!>

"Hai," Usagi chirped softly, "Gomen, it was important though."

Endymion turned to Misako and asked, "Did you see Usagi at your
practice, Miko-chan?"

"Iie, Daddy," Misako said and grinned, "And Kimeko didn't say she saw
Usagi either." She grinned even more. <Usagi's in trouble! Usagi's in
trouble!> It was quite satisfying to see her sister squirm.

"I suppose Sawa will back you up on this?" Endymion questioned as he
looked sternly towards Usagi.

"Hai Otou-san," Usagi said, "Misako has been upset 'cause I missed her
practices." <I can see why. Even for just starting out, you're good.> A
smile flitted across her face. <So what if I might be exaggerating...
you're MY imouto.>

"She fibbed to me!" Misako declared, "Daddy, Usagi fibbed! She fibbin'
now!" Misako pointed out angrily. There was no way she was going to let
her sister squirm off the hook.

"Usagi, it does seem strange that you went to Misako's practice but
didn't stay long enough to tell her what you thought of her."

<It's hard watching while you're hiding,> Usagi thought, <If Minako had
seen me and Sawa, we would've been shot.> "I promise, Misako, I went to
see you, even ask Sawa." <Believe me, Imouto.> Her good mood started to
vanish.

"You promise 'fore and you fibbed then, Usagi," Misako said, "You tryin'
to get out of trouble." Giving her sister a fearsome glare, she slid
from the couch and walking over to her sister.

"Okay that answers about the detention but why were you so late?"
Endymion asked.

"I had to square things with Younger Saturn," Usagi said, "She was
pretty mad that I missed Senshi practice." <At least Sawa got off the
hook. She was making sure I didn't do anything stupid.>

Endymion was silent for a long moment before saying, "Okay Usagi, I
won't worry about you skipping practice. I suspect that Younger Saturn
has something suitable in mind for you." Usagi rapidly nodded and paled
at the thought. "I'm grounding you for two days."

Misako scowled at this pronouncement. Usagi was being grounded and only
for two days for fibbing? <That's not fair!> Misako thought hotly, <If I
fib, I don't get to watch videos for a WHOLE week!>

"Miko-chan, you believe me, ne?" Usagi asked.

"Iie," Misako snapped and then added, "You aren't my onee no more."
Usagi's eyes enlarged and she stared with disbelief towards her little
sister. "You aren't my onee 'cause you fibbed. My onee doesn't fib!
Kimeko is my onee. She's nice and cares about me. You don't!"

"Please Misako..." Usagi began. <I'm telling the truth. I thought you
were really great.>

"Usagi, you're always mean to me and Yumeko. My onee doesn't fib but you
fibbed to me. You broke your promise!" She stuck out her lower lip in a
large pout and huffed out, "Kimeko's my onee 'cause she doesn't fib and
she loves me."

Misako's words pierced Usagi's heart and her face crumpled. Tears
started to fall as she turn and ran down the hallway. She disappeared
into her room, slamming the door behind her. Endymion sighed and ran
hand over his face. <I knew this would happen. I just knew it,> Endymion
thought. Bending slightly, he lifted Misako up and said, "I'm sure Usagi
loves you, Misako."

"Daddy," Misako said softly, a worried expression on her face, "You
gonna take Usagi's side?"

"Misako, I know Usagi hurt you; now I have to go and see if Usagi's
okay. Could you go play quietly while I talk to your sister?" Endymion
asked.

"Hai Daddy, I love you," Misako said, happy that he wasn't going to yell
at her. <Usagi got grounded!> Not what she would have done for Usagi
lying like that but at least her sister had been punished.

"I love you too," Endymion replied. Setting her down, he then added,
"Now go play quietly. And keep clean. You're going to help me make
supper after all." Grinning broadly, Misako skipped out of the room;
leaving Endymion to wonder what he was going to do.

                                 ******

A short time later, Endymion gentle tapped on Usagi's door. It was
hurriedly flung open as Usagi asked, "Misako?" Her red and puffy eyes
filled with hope. As she saw it was her father, her face sagged into a
more dejected look.

"Oh Usagi-chan," Endymion said softly, "Can I come in?" Usagi sniffled
and nodded. Her bottom lip trembling with her effort to control her
crying. Her cheeks and chin with moist with tears and her eyes were
filled with hurt and sadness. As Endymion entered the room, he closed
the door and took a breath before turning to face his daughter once
again.

"Let's have a talk," Endymion suggested as he gently took Usagi's hand
and led her over to the bed. Sitting down, he said, "I know your mom
handles these things..."

He was cut off as Usagi gave a little sob, finally losing her control.
She almost lunged toward him wrapping her arms around his neck in a
tight hug. Hiding her face between her arms, Usagi continued to cry.
This brought back memories for Endymion, of another Usagi who cried as
well.

"She hates me," Usagi sobbed out, "Misako hates me, no matter how much I
try." At that moment, she didn't want to be a young lady; she didn't
want to be a princess. She wanted to be just a normal girl, a normal
girl growing up in a normal home.

Gently moving Usagi so she could sit on the bed, he hugged her close and
said softly, "Misako is very angry with you, Usagi." He felt Usagi give
another sob and he started to rub her back gently, "Shhh... She doesn't
understand how much those words hurt you. She's doesn't know how to tell
you what she's feeling."

"She hates me. She told me that before," Usagi whispered in a staggered
and scratchy voice. Endymion was surprised but Usagi didn't elaborate on
the point. "I try to be a good onee like Usagi was to me but I just seem
to make things worse." <What's wrong with me?>

Endymion allowed Usagi to calm more before he spoke again. While he
waited, he continued to rub her back soothingly trying to impart some
comfort to his daughter. "Mesume," Endymion finally said, "You are a
great onee. You have a lot of responsibility; more than your mother did
at your age. We sometimes forget that you're not an adult and need time
with your friends."

"Nani?" Usagi asked a look of panic coming onto her face, "I tried, Dad,
I really do..." she trailed off as Endymion gave her a reassuring smile.
It seemed warm and full of pride.

"I know, Chibi-Usa-chan," Endymion said, trying to make Usagi feel
better. The old name got a smile from his eldest daughter. She even
giggled a little. "I didn't mean that you were acting like a kid. I
meant that sometimes your mother and I forget that you have other things
to do than be the Crown Princess all the time." <I try and keep that in
place. I think it's Luna and Serenity that are driving you.>

"Misako..." Usagi trailed off and sniffled. Readjusting her hug to a
more comfortable one, she said, "Misako doesn't want me to help her. She
doesn't want me to be her onee."

"Chibi-Usa-chan," he said again, Usagi frowned slightly this time,
"Gomen, I'm just trying to make you feel better."

"It isn't that, Dad," Usagi explained softly, "I don't mind it. It
reminds me of when I was in the past. When we used to have fun
together." She lowered her head and said, "It reminds me of Onee-san."
Blinking, she looked towards her father, "I wish I could spend more time
with you."

Stroking on of her pigtails, Endymion said, "I know." <I'll try and get
your mother to let you help me with some stuff. First though, she'll
have to break down and give Misako some extra attention while we're
together.> "What I was going to say is that you might be trying too
hard." Usagi gave him a quizzical look. "Misako can dress on her own.
Instead of staying in the room, just wake her up, make sure she starts
to get ready, and then leave. If she has any trouble, then she can ask
you."

"I guess so..." Usagi said, "I just want to help her though."

"Usagi, by trying to do everything for Misako, you aren't really helping
her. You're hurting her instead."

"Nani?" Usagi asked, looking about ready to burst into tears once again.

"If you try to do everything for Misako, she'll never learn how to do
things on her own." He gentle wiped a tear from her cheek and asked, "Do
you understand?"

Usagi gave this some thought. "So I shouldn't help her?" she asked in a
small voice.

"Iie, I'm just saying that Misako should want your help first," Endymion
explained, "If you let Misako ask you for help instead of just doing it,
then she'll feel a lot happier." Endymion gave Usagi a hug and said,
"Misako will start to like you helping again."

"Usagi once said that hating someone and being angry with them were
different. You can still be angry with someone and still love them; but
how do you know if someone really hates you?"

"I don't know how to explain that, Usagi," Endymion answerered, "I don't
really understand it myself. Misako is upset and sees you as a threat. I
know you want to help. That's great and I'm very proud of you for all
the work you're doing."

"So what do I do?" Usagi pleaded.

"Listen to what Misako wants you to do instead of doing what you think
she wants you to do. Go slowly and try to get back the imouto you want,"
Endymion said, <Because if you ruin it now, it'll haunt you for the rest
of your life. And in our case, that's a very long time.>

As Usagi hugged her father, she sighed and then sniffled. <I wish I was
a little kid. Things just keep getting worse.>

"I wish I didn't have to ground you," Endymion said, "I'm proud you
tried to make your sister happy. I think your mother will be proud too."

Looking at him, Usagi said softly, "Dad... I broke the rules. And I
wasn't honest with you and Mom. I know I have to be grounded and that's
okay. Seeing Misako was worth it." Giving a pleading look, she asked,
"Can I go watch Misako at her practices? It's really important to her
and to me."

"I'll have to talk with your mother about that," Endymion replied, "I
can't promise anything but we'll see." He sighed internally and thought,
<Kami-sama give me the strength to see them moving out on their own.> He
truly loved his children but the past little while was making him feel
like his actual age.

End of Chapter 6

Coming next week in Chapter 7 - Shifting Seasons

Doug

"It is the major decisions that change the course of our future but it 
is the minor decisions that shape the being who we are."

"I write in broad tapestries, interweaving characters lives leaving
 the little details to the reader unless the detials are important."
	- Anne McCaffrey
	  From the book "Get off the Unicorn"

"I am Sailor Chibi-Earth! And I will sit you in the corner!"
	- Tsukino Misako, ToYV#6

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