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 7 - Shifting Seasons

That evening, Neo-Queen Serenity was sitting in bed watching Endymion
pace back and forth. As she watched her husband pace back and forth,
Serenity tried to hold her curiosity in. After five minutes, she made
little noises in her throat but he continued to brood. After ten
minutes, she had had enough. "Endymion, spit it out!" Serenity finally
snapped, "You're walking around like a caged animal." Endymion turned to
regard her. "Something's really bothering you. I know it. The thing has
to do with me." Endymion's eyebrows rose in surprise. "You always act
like this when you got something horrible to tell me."

King Endymion blew out a breath in exasperation before sitting on the
bed beside Serenity. "All right, Serenity, there's more going on than
Usagi simply not doing her homework."

"Oh?" Serenity asked, "Like what?"

Endymion's face darkened, "Well if you were here more..." he trailed off
and sighed, "Gomen nasai, I didn't mean that. I should be here more
too." His reaction now was worrying Serenity. She slid forward and
hugged him. "Serenity, the girls are fighting. I'm not just talking
about sibling rivalry. Misako is acting like she hates Usagi."

"Endymion," Serenity reasoned, "It's just growing pains. Usagi's getting
older and Misako can't or won't understand that. Those two were
inseparable when they were younger. Now though..."

"When was the last time you and Misako did something together?" Endymion
asked, cutting Serenity off and abruptly changing gears.

"We went swimming," Serenity answered, "Why?" then she frowned and
asked, "And what does this have to do with Misako and Usagi fighting
with each other?"

Endymion clenched his teeth. He was making a visible effort to talk
calmly. "Iie, you went swimming with Usagi AND Misako. Maybe I wasn't
clear," Endymion said, "When was the last time that you and Misako did
something alone?"

"Well... um... there was..." Serenity trailed off and frowned, "I can't
really remember."

"You see?" Endymion asked, "There's a rift forming between Usagi and
Misako. I don't know what's causing it but those two are having a hard
time being civil to each other."

"Endymion, we both have busy schedules," Serenity explained, "I try and
spend time with both Misako and Usagi." She rubbed his shoulder and
said, "It's just sibling rivalry. I went through it. I'm quite sure
Kimeko and Masao went through it. Usagi and Misako are going through
it." Endymion shook his head. "I know it seems like they're ready to
kill each other but it's just a part of growing up." <Shingo and I sure
had our problems.>

"Serenity, why don't you ever take Misako to one of these functions?"
Serenity opened her mouth, paused, and then shrugged. "Are you
embarrassed by her? Do you think Misako wouldn't behave?" Endymion
demanded, his frustration finally surfacing.

"Don't be silly. I'm not embarrassed by Misako. It just that they want
to see Usagi not Misako," Serenity said, but even to her that sounded
like a weak excuse.

"Nani?" Endymion asked, "Serenity, didn't that last invitation say
something about ALL the Royal Family???"

"Great Spire on the Moon!" Serenity said, "You're making a mountain out
of a molehill. Misako had a meet that day."

"So you conveniently forgot to tell her? And what was that all about
having Usagi keep quiet?" Serenity just sighed in response. "Serenity,
Misako needs to do stuff too. Especially with you. Do you know she's
just declared Kimeko her onee?"

"Well she is... in a way..." Serenity began and then frowned at
Endymion's scowl. "Lighten up, Endymion. Misako and Usagi will patch
things up." At Endymion's sour expression, she said, "All right, so what
do you want me to do?!"

Giving an exasperated sigh, Endymion snatched up a pillow and a blanket
before heading for the door. "Where are you going?" Serenity asked, "I
thought we were going to spend some time together tonight."

"Serenity, I can see you have other things on your mind. The last time
we `spent some time together', you managed to destroy the mood by
dragging Usagi's schedule for the next day into the mix. Frankly, unless
you want to talk about what Misako can start to do, I don't feel in the
mood." With that, Endymion walked out of the room shutting the door
behind him.

"Great Serenity's ghost!" Serenity muttered out. Sliding out of bed, she
put her robe on and headed out of the bedroom, in search of her wayward
husband. <Maybe he does have a point though,> Serenity thought, <Misako
and Usagi hardly spoke today.>

                                 ******

As July turned into August, the temperature outside started to climb.
The temperate inside the Royal Family Suite, however, was rather chilly.
Misako had pointedly and insistently refused Usagi's help in dressing in
the morning. The little girl went so far as saying she'd go to school in
her pajamas if Usagi tried to dress her.

To keep the peace, and save Serenity's nerves, a compromise was reached.
Usagi was not, under any circumstances, to help Misako dress unless
specifically asked to do so. This irked Usagi because the more she tried
to be an onee to Misako, the more Misako fought to ensure that Usagi had
less "onee responsibilities". She wasn't very successful though.

Usagi did get her one wish though; she was permitted to go to Misako's
gymnastics practices once a week. However, this didn't seem to help,
Misako simply assumed that her parents were forcing Usagi to go.

With the Royal Inquiry dragging on and the frustrations with Misako that
were magnified by the steady march of puberty, Usagi became a very
miserable person. One hot summer night in late August, Usagi had finally
strained the patience of her mother to its limits.

Serenity was sitting in the living room and desperately trying to
control the urge to yell. Misako was, thankfully, asleep; it had been
one of the bumpiest days since Endymion had raised the issue of Misako's
and Usagi's fighting. "Usagi, that is enough," Serenity snapped, cutting
her daughter off in mid-wail. "I'm not sure what's gotten into you. You
went out of your way to torment Misako and her friends. Then you
disappear just before supper only to come back and say you've already
eaten." Serenity could feel her blood running hot through her veins. "I
don't want to hear anymore. Just go and find something quiet to do until
bedtime."

"Mom," Usagi whined, "I'm just asking why it has to be so long?
Kami-sama, can't you speed up that baka Royal Inquiry?!? I mean it is a
`Royal' Inquiry." Serenity was visibly fuming. "I've seen less pomp in
the history files during coronations!"

"Tsukino Usagi," Serenity said, "I have tried explaining this. I won't
anymore. There are rules and procedures that have to be followed. I have
no say over these."

"Here we go again!" Usagi sighed, raising her arms up before allowing
them to hit her thighs, "Kami-sama. You want to be Queen. You want me to
be a queen but we have to `follow the rules'. I knew I was better off in
the past."

"That's it!" Serenity snapped. Going over to her daughter, she took
Usagi by the arms and started guiding her firmly out of the room. "I
respect you want this to hurry up but, young lady, you're trying my
patience to the limit. You can just go to bed."

"But it ain't my bedtime yet!" Usagi protested as she started to
struggle. Yanking her arm free, she just glared at Serenity, "Come on,
Mom. It's the truth. Either you have to be Queen or you're a commoner.
You can't be bound by rules."

"Usagi, go to bed," Serenity directed, "I know you want Sakuya freed.
I'm sorry that it's taking so long but I've explained to you why. I've
explained it to you as the Queen, as an onee, and as a mother but this
is the last straw. I will not tolerate this type of whining from a young
lady. If you want to whine like a little kid, then maybe you should be
treated as such. NOW GO TO BED!" Even when Usagi's bottom lip started to
tremble and a few tears were shed, Serenity's heart was hardened.

"Mom, could I please go talk to Dad?" Usagi asked.

"Iie, now do as you're told," Serenity said, a sad expression crossed
her face as Usagi slowly went down the hallway and into her room. <Was
Endymion right?> she thought, then an unexpected voice startled
Serenity.

"Mommy, is 'Sagi being mean to you?" Misako asked. She was holding her
teddy bear with the eye patch in one arm and rubbing the sleep from her
eyes with the other.

"What are you doing up, Miko-chan?" Serenity asked while picking Misako
up.

"I'm hot. I can't sleep," Misako said as she snuggled against Serenity.

"Is your room hot?" Misako gave a burble, which could have passed for an
affirmative response. "Well let's see what we can do about that." <And
maybe I can work a little magic and get you and Usagi to stop arguing so
much.> Endymion's words kept haunting her but Serenity kept shrugging
them off. <It's just plain old sibling rivalry. That's all it is,>
Serenity thought as she walked with Misako down the hall and out onto
the deck, <It's nothing at all.>

                                 ******

A knock sounded at the door. Irritatedly, Haruka looked up from her
paperwork and glared. <Baka, I left orders not to be disturbed.> "Come
in!" she snapped. Her scowl deepened as Hotaru entered the office. "What
are YOU doing here?" <Bad enough I have to see her waste her time
defending that bitch.>

Ignoring Haruka's foul mood, Hotaru entered the office and closed the
door before speaking, "Haruka-san, I am under the impression that you
are violently against setting Sakuya free?"

"Damn straight!" Haruka replied gruffly, "That entire `Royal Commission'
was a load of shit. That prissy princess comes back and whines for a
year that she wants Rakurai out and suddenly she has NEW information?
Yeah right!" Haruka gave a derisive snort and said, "I don't suppose it
would be ethical for us to talk."

Ignoring for the moment Haruka's slam against Usagi, Hotaru walked over
to the desk. "I'm not here as Rakurai's counsel," Hotaru began softly,
"I'm here as a friend." Haruka gave her a dubious look but didn't offer
a verbal response. "I want you to promise me that you won't put up a
fuss if Elder Venus' ruling tomorrow on the Royal Inquiry's findings
sets Rakurai free."

"Kami-sama, why not? It was a sham!" Haruka complained, "We sit through
something close to thirteen weeks of false hearings. Of that little kid
breaking down and crying because of what she went through? Hell, her
mother went through a lot more." Hotaru opened her mouth but Haruka was
on a roll, "Then that wet-bottomed pixie who's Younger Venus admits that
she knowingly withheld information?!" Haruka snorted and tossed her pen
down. "They're lucky I don't arrest them both for suppression of
evidence."

"You wouldn't dare," Hotaru said, her eyes narrowing.

"If Elder Venus decides to set that bitch free, you just watch me,"
Haruka countered.

"Please Haruka-papa," Hotaru said softly, "Don't protest. There's no
guarantee that Elder Venus will set Sakuya free. Like you argued in the
Royal Inquiry: This information could justify that Sakuya should stay in
jail."

"Don't pull that `Haruka-papa' crap with me, Hotaru-CHAN," Haruka
snarled, "You betrayed me when you sided with Rakurai and Kino." Shaking
her head, Haruka added, "I knew that your friendship with that whiny
princess was making you soft but I didn't think it had gone this far.
You're being manipulated by a little kid."

Taking a deep breath, Hotaru trembled in rage. Pressing her fists onto
Haruka's desk, she leaned forward and glared at Haruka. "You know
nothing, Haruka! Nothing!" Hotaru snapped in a low, dangerous voice,
"You try to break Usagi's heart by protesting this and I will bury you."
Haruka looked skeptical at this. "I know your secrets, Haruka. If Elder
Venus sets Rakurai free, I don't even want to hear one squeak of protest
out of you."

"Or what?" Haruka questioned, beginning to show signs of her own anger.

"I'll bury you, Haruka. I'll start dropping things that I've
`eliminated' to protect you. Like some of those early reports that went
missing."

"You're a traitor," Haruka growled, "I raised you with Michiru. You're
stabbing me in the back."

"Michiru finally realized what you were up to," Hotaru remarked while
standing, "Just like I did. She isn't with you anymore. After that one
little incident..." Haruka shot to her feet. Her nostrils flared in
anger; her face flushed and grew darker by the second. "Remember this,
Haruka, when it comes to my family, friends, or people my friends care
about, I'm just like Sakuya. I'll do anything." Pointedly turning,
Hotaru walked out of the office.

                                 ******

The courtroom was packed. Unlike the first trial though, there were some
significant additions to the gallery of spectators. Elder Uranus was
sitting brooding at her table. She would occasionally give a dark look
towards Elder Saturn who seemed to be pointedly ignoring her. Elder
Neptune and even Sailor Pluto were present. Those Younger Senshi that
were able were also present.

Younger Mars sat beside Princess Usagi. Neo-Queen Serenity and King
Endymion were also present to hear the decision of the Court. As the
moment to hear the verdict grew closer, a hush came over the assembled
crowd and something akin to electricity filled the air.

Younger Neptune serving as bailiff announced, "All stand... Hear ye,
hear ye, the First Royal Court of Crystal Tokyo is now in session. Their
Honors Elder Venus, Elder Mercury, and Elder Mars presiding. All persons
having business before this Court draw near. Kami-sama save Their
Majesties and this High Court."

The people stood and watched as the three Elder Senshi walked to the
front. After taking her seat, Elder Venus called the courtroom to order.
"This Court is now in session." She looked first to Elder Mercury who
was on her right and then to Elder Mars who was on her left before
allowing her eyes to glance down at the papers before her. "In the case
of the State of Crystal Tokyo versus Rakurai Sakuya, before I render
this Court's decisions based upon the new evidence that the Royal
Inquiry discovered, I would like to take a moment to express this
Court's concerns of what has transpired."

This caused a small murmur to run through the crowd but they quickly
settled down. "Although this Court finds such loyalty that Her Highness
Princess Usagi and Younger Venus showed commendable, we find ourselves
distressed by it." Elder Venus allowed the murmur to die down once again
before continuing, "Younger Venus is in a position of authority with the
responsibilities of upholding the law; although keeping her word is a
commendable attribute, no promise should supersede the law. What Younger
Venus did was akin to suppression of evidence."

This time it took Elder Venus' use of the gavel to bring the courtroom
back to order. "I will have silence in this Court or I will have the
courtroom cleared," Elder Venus warned. "This Court finds similar fault
with Princess Usagi although, given her young age, it is more
understandable." A squeal of protest drew her attention. She saw Usagi
glaring at her with her arms crossed and a scowl on her face. "With this
new information, the Court might have saved a lot of pain and suffering
for all parties involved."

The silence surprised Elder Venus; she had expected the crowd to show
some reaction but it was as if they were all numb. Taking a drink of
water and shuffling her papers, Elder Venus announced, "It is the
learned opinion of this Court that given this new testimony, the charge
of high treason against the Crown will be dismissed." That got a
reaction out of the crowd; Elder Venus smiled internally. "The defendant
took steps to ensure the timeline and tried her utmost not to disturb
past events." Shooting a look towards Elder Uranus, Elder Venus
continued to speak, "This does not fully excuse the assault committed by
the defendant upon Sailor Pluto, Elder Neptune, or Elder Uranus."

"Therefore, the Court has reached the following decision." Elder Venus
looked towards the defense and said, "Rakurai Sakuya, please rise."
After Sakuya and Elder Saturn stood, Elder Venus continued, "Rakurai
Sakuya, this Court previously found you guilty of assault on a Sailor
Senshi in the first degree with intent to do great bodily harm. You were
also found guilty on the charge of high treason against the Crown. As
you have heard we are dismissing the charge of high treason against
you." Licking her lips, Elder Venus continued, "We have reached a
unanimous decision. Rakurai Sakuya, we are reducing the charge of
assault with intent to cause great bodily harm to assaulting a superior.
Therefore, it is this Court's decision that you be re-sentenced." That
stopped the cheer that had started, and the courtroom seemed to draw in
a collective breath. "You will be sentenced to time served and placed on
a two years probation..." Elder Venus waited but the crowd seemed to
sense that there was more, "You shall be reinstated to the title of
Younger Jupiter. However, you will not carry the same rank or
responsibilities you previously held until such time, if any, Her
Majesty deems it appropriate for you to resume them." Elder Venus
smiled, banged her gavel, and concluded, "This Court stands adjourned!"

The room exploded into commotion. Most were cheering, some were quietly
grumbling but three were special. Elder Uranus was fuming and thinking
darkly. Swinging her fist, she slammed it into the center of the table
with a loud "CRACK!" causing it to snap in two.

Makoto was hugging Sakuya and crying softly. There was a third person
crying though. Princess Usagi was crying, her tears running down her
face and her cheeks. A mixture of happiness and sorrow. She had
succeeded, had done what she said she would do. But those eyes that fell
upon her, those eyes from Sakuya never gave any sign of forgiveness. And
even with her joy, that hurt Usagi far more.

                                 ******

Kino Makoto walked through her quarters and out onto the balcony. The
sun was just starting to set, its rays casting a soft glow over the
city. A crisp wind blew, rustling the branches in the trees and stirring
the small set of wind chimes that were hung by the door.

"Hi Sako-chan," Makoto called softly to Sakuya, "Am I bothering you?"

Sakuya slowly opened her eyes and turned her head to look towards
Makoto. "Iie, Obaa-san. I just can't believe it." She rubbed her arms
and turning around leaned against the balcony railing. "I've been free
two days and I still feel like I'm locked up."

Makoto walked over and, leaning against the railing beside Sakuya, said,
"You spent two years in that awful place." Sakuya lowered her head. "I
know, Sako-chan, you think it's worth it. I agree with you. I think what
the others heard at the Royal Inquiry will help straighten people out."

"I suppose," Sakuya agreed moodily.

"I thought we might have a little get together," Makoto remarked,
"Sako-chan, if you're up to it..." Sakuya just looked towards her, an
eyebrow raised in question. "I thought we'd invite the Youngers, and the
Elders too... except for that bitch." Makoto muttered darkly. "And
Neo-Queen Serenity and Endymion. Even Misako and Usagi."

"IIE!" Sakuya snapped unexpectedly and pushed away to stand, "I don't
want Usagi here."

"Nani?" Makoto questioned while coming to stand in front of her
granddaughter, "Sako-chan, Usagi had a lot to do with you getting out."

"Her Highness had a lot to do with putting me in too, Obaa-san," Sakuya
retorted, "I don't want her there. Or have you forgotten what she did to
Sawa? How am I supposed to condone such behavior?"

"Sako-chan, be reasonable. You weren't the perfect angel yourself as I
recall," Makoto stated, "Usagi cares about you and she went out on a
limb for you. She embarrassed herself and likely the Royal Family to set
you free."

"That is one of my main problems, her behavior. In regard to this case,
it has been shameful. She knew perfectly well that I wanted her efforts
stopped." Sakuya looked towards Makoto who was scowling, "Obaa-san,
hasn't it occurred to you that what Princess Usagi said might have just
justified my sentence?"

Gently touching Sakuya's arm, Makoto answered, "Hai, Sako-chan. I knew
that but Usagi did what she did for the same reason why I would have.
You're family to me and I love you. The same as you are family to Usagi.
You were always around and she loves you. I know deep down you love her
like a little sister. You wouldn't have risked your neck for Usagi if
you didn't care so much about her."

"That was duty," Sakuya stated coarsely, "Nothing more, nothing less."

Sighing with some exasperation, Makoto said, "I don't believe that and I
don't think you really believe it either. It's just something to hide
the pain." Sakuya shifted uncomfortably and turned to watch the sun sink
once again. The wind tossed her reddish-brown hair and she almost
appeared to be a living statue. After a moment or so, Makoto continued,
"For me, Sako-chan, let Usagi come. I want Serenity and Endymion to
come; I respect that you have strong feelings about Usagi being present
but think of it as bad form. You don't invite the Royal Family and
exclude the Crown Princess."

"All right, Obaa-san," Sakuya reluctantly agreed, "Usagi can come."

"Arigato," Makoto said while giving Sakuya a hug. Sakuya didn't respond.
She simply returned the hug and sighed. Things were going to be rough
for a time.

                                  ******

Misako lay awake in her bedroom. She stared towards her ceiling deep in
thought. It was early Sunday morning by now, almost five days since
Sakuya's release. But that wasn't what Misako was thinking of; she was
thinking of Usagi.

Lifting her one-eyed bear up, she said softly, "Kaizoku-san, 'Sagi was
really nice today." A slow smile made its way across her face, "She came
out and played with me. And she was really nice to Yumeko too!" Quickly,
she held him close and nervously flicked her eyes towards the door.
"Shhh..." she cautioned holding her finger to her lips, "I don't wanta
wake Mommy and Daddy. They'd get really mad." Softly giggling, she said,
"Kaizoku-san, did you see 'Sagi? She was really funny. She tried to do
what I did but kept falling down." She grinned broadly and fought off
the urge to giggle.

The morning had been spent playing different games and Usagi seemed
truly interested in joining in. She and Yumeko got along, even managed
to talk civilly towards one another. It was Yuki though who seemed to
relish Usagi's presence the most. The tiny girl was happy to have backup
against Yumeko. Not that the older girl was a real bully, she did listen
to Yuki. It was just that Yumeko tended to drag her and Misako into
sticky situations.

The afternoon had been even better. The girls had decided to go outside
and play. Misako endeavored to teach Usagi some of the simpler moves
that she had learned at gymnastics. Sadly though, Usagi seemed to have
difficulty doing anything more than a forward roll or somersault. She
couldn't really do backward ones and, after several painful meetings
with the ground, gave up entirely on cartwheels. Usagi was able to stand
on her hands longer than Misako but any sudden movement on her part,
caused Usagi to go spiraling to the ground.

<'Sagi was really nice today,> Misako thought, <Maybe Yumeko's wrong.
Maybe 'Sagi's tryin' to be nice.> It was later that evening that things
seemed to go wrong, at least for Usagi. <Onee was really sad when she
was at the party.> A worried expression replaced her smile; they had
gone to Makoto's place to celebrate Sakuya's release. Everyone seemed to
have a pleasant time, everyone that is, except Usagi. For most of the
evening, she sat away from the main group and brooded. <She didn't even
want any treats,> Misako thought. "'Sagi's really sad," the little girl
informed her bear.

After a brief pause, Misako nodded. "You're right," Misako agreed and
softly slid from her bed. Walking over to the door, she said, "I know
you're scared of 'Sagi, Kaizoku-san, but I think 'Sagi still loves me. I
don't think she would hurt you like 'fore." There was another brief
pause and Misako giggled softly, "Of course, I love you." Giving her
teddy bear a kiss on his forehead, she grabbed the doorknob. "Arigato."

Misako softly opened her door and peeked out. Everyone seemed to be
asleep, which was a good thing. Tiptoeing softly out into the hallway,
she pulled her door shut and froze when the door clicked loudly.
"Shhh..." she whispered to her teddy bear, "Be quiet or we'll get into
trouble." She cast a nervous glance towards her parents' bedroom door
that was just opposite hers but everything seemed quiet. Carefully, she
crept down the dark hallway to her sister's room.

<I know Yumeko says 'Sagi's being mean,> Misako thought to herself, <but
we had lotsa fun today.> Even when they had come back home, Usagi had
moped about until it was time for bed. Gently, she opened her sister's
bedroom door and stepped in before quietly closing it again. <I'm
worried about 'Sagi. She's been sad an awful lot. She said she was all
alone.>

Cautiously walking over to the bed, she watched the sleeping form of her
sister for several seconds before gently placing her teddy bear in one
of Usagi's arms. Giving each a soft kiss, she grinned broadly and,
turning, snuck back out of the room.

Once the door was shut, Usagi carefully opened her eyes and looked
around the room. <Misako...> Usagi thought, <I thought it was Mom or
Dad.> She hadn't been able to sleep. Her mind kept wandering back to the
party earlier that night. Picking up Misako's teddy bear, Usagi gave a
little sniffle. <She goes out of her way to make me feel better.> That
gave Usagi a warm feeling. In the darkness of the room, she made out one
of the more unique features of the bear. <You gave me your favorite
teddy bear,> Usagi thought as she traced the patch that covered the spot
where its one eye used to be. <You've had this a long time.> Her eyes
started to moisten. <Are you thinking that the mean Usagi is coming
back, Imouto?>

Maybe that was why Misako was angry with her. <You told me that when I
was little, I pulled off its eye.> It would explain Misako's typically
protective nature of this particular teddy bear. <You must be really
worried about me to let me have him.> This brought a smile to Usagi's
face.

But even with Misako's gift, there was an emptiness, a void that
lingered in Usagi's heart. <Sakuya barely talked to me,> Usagi thought
sadly and sniffled, <I tried and she won't talk to me.> It was obvious
that Sakuya still saw her as a little kid. <Even Misako was more
welcomed than me.> That was a little galling. Sakuya typically tolerated
Misako simply because Kimeko was around. <What am I going to do? Sawa
told Sakuya that I apologized to her. She doesn't seem to believe that I
could grow up.>

Hugging the bear close, Usagi sniffled again and felt a tear roll down
her cheek. <I promised Sakuya that I would get you out,> another tear
followed the first, <I promise to show you I can be grown-up; I'll earn
back your respect.> But to the little girl at that moment, it seemed
like an impossible task.

And with a little sob, tears finally came, helping to relieve the
frustration Usagi was feeling. But as she cried herself to sleep, the
hollow feeling grew. She missed the one person who she had always
counted on. She missed the one person who had faith in her completely.
She was also ashamed that she had let Sakuya down. Though sleep finally
took over, her heart continued to cry.

                                  ******

As August melted into September, most people allowed the Royal Inquiry
and the release of Rakurai Sakuya to fade to the back of their minds.
They had more important things to do. The more reputable newspapers had
long since forgotten about it; the story drifted from the front page to
almost nothing near the end.

While Usagi struggled with the consequences of the Royal Commission,
Misako was nearly oblivious to the entire affair. As far as she knew,
Sakuya had come back from whatever neat thing she had been doing. But
early September held a very important day for Misako. And on September
sixth, it arrived.

As Misako felt a gentle shaking. Slowly she opened her eyes and
immediately squinted in the bright early morning light. A slow smile
spread across her face as she looked up into the face of her father.

"Good morning," Endymion said softly, a smile touching his lips. "Did
you have a good sleep?" Misako nodded and stretched her arms up. She
gave her father a warm smile as he bent and lifted her out of bed and
into a hug. "Happy birthday, Miko-chan," he said before giving her a
soft kiss on the forehead.

"'Morning Daddy," Misako responded while wrapping her arms around her
father's neck. She snuggled her head under his chin and gave a sigh of
contentment.

Walking over to the window, Endymion observed, "It's a very nice day
out. Just perfect for my special little girl." He gave her a little
tighter hug before saying, "Now, you get dressed and then we can go and
get some breakfast."

"'Kay," Misako squeaked softly. Her eyes were closed and she was
preparing to stay in her current position if she could. That was until
Endymion gently let her slide from his arms. "Daddy..." she whined a
little but grinned then as she realized that today was special. She was
out to prove that, at seven, she was finally a big girl.

However, Misako's expectations that it would be a great day were quickly
dashed. Not long after washing, she was hustled, under severe protest,
into a dress. Not that Misako hated wearing dresses but it was a
Saturday and wearing a dress negated any form of play having to do with
dirt. And with her friends coming over, Misako intended to do a lot of
playing.

Misako was even more dejected when she had to endure a public
celebration of her birthday. Not only was it very boring although some
of the presents were neat, there was one thing that really irked Misako.
It wasn't as grandiose as Usagi's. Not only did Usagi get a bigger
birthday celebration but also her older sister was getting chores.

Usagi was now in charge of preparing their bento boxes for school. She
also got to wash the dishes while Misako was set to the chore of drying
them, which was not very much fun. On the plus side, Usagi was relegated
to waiting outside the bathroom door and looking in every once and
awhile when Misako was taking her bath.

So as Misako sat and politely suffered through the necessary pomp and
circumstance, her mind had turned to brooding on all the fun that Usagi
was getting to have.

That afternoon was a relief, however. Right after lunch, she was allowed
to put on her play clothes. Misako didn't waste any time either and as
soon as her friends arrived, she and they moved out of doors to have fun
and enjoy the nice weather.

It was around mid-afternoon. The celebrations that Misako was holding
with her friends were in full swing. Usagi sat by her window and looked
out, a longing expression on her face. <I know I'm not a little kid. But
today's special for Misako.> She smiled as Misako did two cartwheels in
a row. <You're great... I wish I could come and be with you, Imouto.>
But that would mean playing and Usagi was finding it difficult to play
with her sister. She always felt awkward and clumsy. Just then, the
chime of the private entrance sounded.

<I wonder who that could be?> Usagi thought as she got up and walked to
her door. She looked out and noticed that her parents were still talking
with the other parents. <Guess it's up to me,> Usagi thought as the
chime sounded again. Walking down the hallway, she opened the door.

"Ko... konnichiwa, Rakurai-san," Usagi said in a shaky voice. <Why is
she here?> A sense of hope sprung up within her heart. <Maybe... maybe
she's come to ask Mom to let her be my guardian.> She gave Sakuya a good
look now. <That green dress is kinda pretty.>

"Konnichiwa, Your Highness," Sakuya greeted as she bowed formally, "I
have an invitation here from Princess Misako." She then promptly
produced the invitation and held it out.

<She's here to see Misako,> Usagi sadly thought as she took the
invitation and read over it. "Please come in. Misako is in the backyard
playing with her friends."

"Arigato, Princess Usagi," Sakuya said formally and giving another bow
started walking down the hallway.

"Ra... Rakurai-san?" Sakuya turned and gave her a questioning look. "Do
you like my necklace?" Usagi asked while producing the necklace she
rarely took off. "Mom and Dad gave it to me for my tenth birthday." A
note of pride showed through in her voice. <This has to prove to her
that I'm not a little kid.>

Sakuya approached Usagi and gave the rabbit's head necklace serious
consideration. "It is very nice, Your Highness, something befitting your
station as the Crown Princess. Now I should go and greet Their Majesties
before speaking with Princess Misako." With that, Sakuya turned once
again and walked down the hall.

<Something befitting me as a Crown Princess... but not a young lady,>
Usagi thought as she sadly watched Sakuya. <Please Sakuya, come back to
me.> She managed to hold her tears in until she was inside her room.
<You still mean a lot to me, Sakuya.> Her throat tightened and she
sniffled. <Won't you ever forgive me?> At that moment, it didn't seem
so.

It was a short time later that Misako and the others were called in to
allow Misako to open her presents and eat her birthday cake. As they
settled in, Misako turned to Makoto and said, "You promise to give
Sakuya a piece?"

"Hai," Makoto replied, "I'll take her a piece of your cake."

Misako grinned. "Arigato Mako-chan!" Misako chirped happily. <Poor
Sakuya, has to work today.> Misako did like the card Sakuya gave her,
and it had been nice to see Sakuya. "Which one first?" she asked as she
tilted her head to look up at her father.

"What about this one, Miko-chan?" Endymion suggested while sliding a
large, brightly wrapped present in front of her. Misako's eye enlarged
at the size of the box. Carefully, she removed the card and read it.

"Arigato Daddy, Mommy." Then with slow procession, Misako opened her
gift. Once the pretty paper was off of it, there was no indication as to
what it was. The box was plain and didn't have the feel or rattle of a
toy. "I wonder what it is..." Misako mused and yanked the top off.
<Paper?> She tired not to wrinkle her nose. Peeling it back, Misako
tried not to show her disappointment. Then she saw something. <Is it?!?>
Misako questioned as she saw the blue and aqua green fabric. A delighted
smile spread across her face as she carefully lifted the item out. Sure
enough, it was a jacket. More than just a jacket though. "Wow!!!!"
Misako declared a huge grin showing itself.

"We knew that you wanted one of the team jackets," Endymion said. <I
guess it wasn't just a phase.> "It's got your name on it, too." Misako
giggled in delight as Endymion turned it over and showed her where her
name was on the back. The little crest that her team used right below
it.

"ARIGATO!!!!" Misako declared hopping up onto her chair and hugging both
of her parents at the same time. "Love you lots!" It was great. The
smooth feel of the jacket made her quiver slightly in anticipation. With
her father's help, Misako slipped the jacket on and hugged herself.
"It's great! I'm gonna wear it every day."

"Iie," Endymion said. Misako pouted slightly. "It's very special and
only for when you go to practices or to meets. We wouldn't want it to
get dirty, ne?" Reluctantly, Misako nodded. "I know you want to wear it
all the time but it is for gymnastics." <Serenity giggled when I agreed.
Now I'm stuck with a daughter who wants to break her neck. At least, she
isn't bungee jumping without the cord.> But given his little girl's
appetite for excitement during her play, Endymion didn't think she would
wait long before she was out doing something even more outrageous.

"Open mine next," Usagi suggested. She watched with anticipation as
Misako opened the card and read it.

"Arigato 'Sagi-chan," Misako squeaked after setting the card down. She
then carefully opened Usagi's present. "Kawaii!" Misako declared when
she opened the top of the box. Inside was a small teddy bear dressed in
a track suit and sweat ban. Picking the bear, she hopped of her chair
and went around to where Usagi was sitting. Giving her sister a hug, she
said, "Arigato Onee-chan."

"You're welcome, Imouto," Usagi said, a warm feeling residing in her
heart. <I'm glad I can still make you happy. With Sakuya not wanting to
talk to me, you're all I got left to share secrets with.> She hugged the
little girl back. <We've been having it pretty rough lately. I hope this
helps to show you that I want to help you.>

                                  ******

Time passed and the final grip of summer slipped from Crystal Tokyo.
And as autumn took its hold, the City of Crystal Tokyo was painted in
the bright colors of autumn: red and yellow with orange and brown
highlights. But the passage of time never brought relief to Usagi or
Misako. For all her efforts, Sakuya avoided her whenever possible and
refused to speak with her the few times Usagi tried to visit. After
Misako's birthday, Usagi and Misako's relationship smoothed for a little
while. Then, too soon, it plunged again, back into the rocky and
confusing darkness that Usagi was struggling to keep it out of.

Misako for her own part was starting to feel lonely. With Usagi seeming
to pull away at a staggering rate no matter what she tried, Misako could
never seem to keep up. But something was happening to Usagi and Misako
didn't understand what it was. Usagi wouldn't talk to Misako about it
and seemed to be embarrassed by it whatever it was. One thing was for
certain: Usagi was starting to become a huge klutz. Certainly, she was
becoming more of a baka odango atama all the time.

It was late into November before the first sprinkling of snow came;
however, it didn't last long and through December, they only got the
occasional snowy day. Soon though, the weather would turn mild and the
snow would go away again. This suited Misako who found an ever growing
supply of mud to play in, much to the distress of her parents and Usagi.

It was a little over a week before Christmas when it turned cold enough
to keep some snow around but it wasn't much. Preparing to venture out
into the Royal Suite's backyard, Misako gave Kimeko a hug. "I missed you
an awful lot!" she declared and snuggled close to Kimeko's legs. "I
don't want you to leave me ever again."

Giggling slightly, Kimeko lifted Misako up and, hugging the little girl,
said, "I told you I had to do some extra Senshi stuff."

"I know, Kimeko-chan," Misako replied softly, "But Younger Mercury and
Younger Uranus scared me." Both were not very nice people. Sure they
were Sailor Senshi but they made it very clear they didn't like having
to "baby-sit" Princess Misako. "Even Sakuya ain't as scary as they are."
The little girl pouted slightly and gave a sniffle. "I don't want you to
go away ever again!" She then gave Kimeko another hug.

"Don't worry, Miko-chan," Kimeko reassured, "I'm back with you now." <I
know Mom had no choice in assigning me extra training. It's just a good
thing she didn't charge me with obstruction of justice.> "Now finish up
getting ready and then let's go out there." <Kami-sama... It's going to
be cold out there.>

A short time later, Misako, along with Yumeko and Yuki, came out into
the frigid air of that clear Sunday morning. The three little girls
giggled and laughed as they chased one another. After a few moments,
they gathered in the far corner of the backyard and got down to planning
their next activity.

"Whatcha want to do?" Yuki asked the two other girls. She noticed that
Kimeko was huddled on the deck, shivering, and looking none-too-pleased
that she had been forced outside.

"Youma Catch!" both Yumeko and Misako declared.

The rules of the game were simple enough. It was played with a ball that
was nearly the size of a beachball. One, or more if there were enough,
would be the "Youma". The others would be the "Senshi" although it
really didn't have anything to do with Senshi powers. The object was two
fold depending on the side you were playing. The "Senshi" tried to throw
the ball so it would hit the Youma and stop it from getting "home". The
Youma's two main objectives were to avoid the ball and get "home"
safely. There was also two "safe" zones -- the Youma's "home" and a
starting space. The Youma couldn't return to the starting space unless
they were outside of it for more than thirty seconds.

Although it could get rambunctious and sometimes a little personal, most
played fair. The tables could turn at any moment so it always paid to be
nice to your enemy. Once the Youma was caught, or the Youma reached
home, a suitable way of "destroying" the losing side was decided upon
and carried out. Typically, this ranged from having the losing side
recite something embarrassing to a barrage of snowballs. Or in this
particular case, snowy mudballs.

Yuki looked nervously around the soggy and partially frozen ground. "I
don't know..." she reluctantly said, "It could be hard." It wasn't that
she didn't enjoy the game, just that she lost more times than anybody
else.

"Aw come on, Yuki-chan," Yumeko said, "We've all lost."

"Yeah but... it's SO muddy," Yuki whined. She didn't mind mud either but
it was wintertime, that mud was going to be extra cold!

A gleam of amusement entered Misako's eyes, "What if Kimeko helped you?
Me and Yume-chan against you and Kimeko?" Yumeko grinned and nodded. She
liked that idea, especially if Kimeko lost.

"I don't think she'll come and play with us, Miko-chan," Yuki remarked.

Turning towards Kimeko, she asked, "Kimeko-chan, come play Youma Catch,
please!" Kimeko shook her head. "How come?"

"Because I'm not going to get dirty!" Kimeko called from her huddled
position. <Nice warm room, a good book, and Mika. That's what I want.>
She stopped herself from grimacing. <Not being out here watching Misako
play.> Then she groaned. <It would just have to be Youma Catch too.>

"See, I told you," Yuki pouted slightly. She didn't want to be the
person to ruin a perfectly good idea. It wouldn't help her standing with
the girls any either.

"Yume-chan can help you," Misako offered, "I'll be the Youma." Yuki was
quick to agree. With Yumeko's help, Misako would likely get plastered
the most. Yes, Yuki was definitely going to enjoy this.

                                  ******

<Brrr...> Kimeko thought, <They're all going to catch colds and I'll get
the blame.> She winced as Misako went sliding headfirst through a mud
puddle. <Show off. She's just letting Yumeko help Yuki out so she could
show off.> And Misako was showing off. It had been about ten minutes
since the start of the game and Misako hadn't been hit. However, she
hadn't made any progress towards the deck which had been designated as
"home".

The other two girls were getting very annoyed by this stint of good
luck. "Hey!" Misako called out as Yumeko and Yuki huddled together,
"Whatcha talkin' about?"

"Nothin'!" both girls chorused and then giggled. Misako watched warily
as Yuki circled around behind her. She didn't like the looks of this one
bit. But Yumeko had the ball. Giving Yuki one more look, Misako turned
back to face the other girl.

"Ready Yuki-chan?" Yumeko asked.

"Hai!" Yuki said and grinned towards Misako.

Yumeko started to walk, always keeping her eyes on Misako. This went on
for a minute or so. Finally, Misako's patience was exhausted; Yumeko was
between her and her goal. Taking a deep breath, she started to move
cautiously towards Yumeko. As she moved, Yumeko suddenly stopped and
aimed her throw right at Misako's legs. Misako reacted instinctively and
dodged. The ball went skitter across the ground to rest against Yuki's
leg. Yuki in two quick moves scooped up the ball and, running at Misako,
threw it in an overhead fashion.

Misako, not expecting such a quick return fire from Yuki, was caught
off-guard and the ball hit her cleanly. "GOTCHA YOUMA!" Both Yuki and
Yumeko grinned. Misako scrambled to her feet and glared towards Yumeko
and Yuki for a moment, then sighed.

"That was pretty good," she admitted, "Okay, so you got me." She was a
little worried over what the girls had planned. "What are ya gonna to
do?"

"Oh, don't worry, YOUMA, we have somethin' special planned for you.
Yuki-chan, let's get the ammo," Yumeko ordered ominously and turning,
headed towards a particularly muddy section of ground. "Grownups got a
thing called a twenty-one gun salute... Since you're a princess, we've
decided to give you a twenty-one `mudball' salute."

This declaration made Kimeko groan. She wouldn't interfere though,
unless Misako was in serious danger. It wouldn't be fair and she might
earn the wrath of the other girls. It would certainly make them mad at
Misako. <It could be worse though,> Kimeko reminded herself, <It could
be spring.>

Fortunately, there wasn't any danger except the possibility of catching
a cold because Yumeko and Yuki did not intend to throw the mudballs.
Instead, they took the partially frozen mudballs and liberally smooshed
them onto Misako who gave howls of protest, more in keeping with her
parts as a dying Youma than anything else.

The little girls started the game over but it quickly degenerated into a
free-for-all wrestling and mud slinging match. Kimeko winced and
muttered darkly to herself as the rough game continued. Why Misako ever
liked the mud or why Misako's friends would willingly play in it was
beyond her. Eventually though, Kimeko couldn't stand anymore, as any
indication that the clothing the girls were wearing were anything but
mud and snow colored was gone.

"Okay, girls, time to go home!" Kimeko called, walking a little way off
the deck. "I don't know how I'm going to get you guys in without ruining
Serenity-sama's carpet." <I can carry Misako but you other two... You'll
likely drag mud all the way home.>

"Aw... we're havin' fun!" Misako complained.

"Hai!" Yumeko and Yuki agreed.

"Come on, Kimeko-chan, let's stay outside. We ain't finished yet."

"Gomen, iie. I think you're very finished. You're absolutely filthy.
I'll have to make sure you're scrubbed properly, Misako."

"Pretty please, Kimeko, you can even come and play with us," Misako
offered, and looked pleadingly towards the older girl.

"Come on, Misako, I don't want you catching a cold," Kimeko stated and
started walking towards the little girls. As she closed the distance,
Misako gave a squeal of protest and took off running. "Oh no you don't!"
Kimeko declared while darting forward to snag Misako. She did catch the
little girl and was about to plant her foot when it suddenly moved from
underneath her.

A huge "SPLOSH" sound could be heard as Kimeko landed face first into
one of the numerous slushy mud puddles. She pushed herself up, spitting
and sputtering, trying to clear the foul tasting mud from her mouth.
Yuki and Yumeko were the first to start giggling. Misako, having been
pulled down with Kimeko, gazed towards her guardian, a slightly worried
expression on her face.

"Kimeko-chan," Misako meekly asked, "Are you okay?"

"I guess so," Kimeko said. <Just great. Now I have to take a bath.>

"Sugoi!" Misako suddenly declared. Scrambling to her feet, she
half-tripped half-ran to stand over her fallen guardian. Then in one
quick move, she was straddling the older girl and applying slimy cold
mud to Kimeko's hair and back. "That means you can play with us!"

"MI-SA-KO!!!" Kimeko howled in protest but even she couldn't fight the
smile struggling to appear on her face when she heard the other girls
giggling. <How am I ever going to explain this to Their Majesties?>

"Kimeko-chan!" came an unexpected voice. Everyone froze as Endymion came
out onto the deck. With Misako still on her back, Kimeko could only turn
and stare sheepishly towards Endymion. "Smile!!!" he declared and
suddenly lifting a camera snapped two pictures before Kimeko had any
time to react. Then chortling, Endymion wandered back into the house.

<Oh Misako... you just wait!> Kimeko thought, <I'll get you for this.>
And she had the perfect idea as to how.

                                  ******

The next day it was quiet throughout the house. No one was stirring
except Serenity and Misako's pet mouse. Serenity was sitting in by the
bay window watching the world wake up. She was wearing a casual set of
clothes that consisted of a blue skirt and pink blouse. She didn't have
to go anywhere today and was quite intent on spending it relaxing with
her family. She was just taking a sip of her tea when she heard the
private door chime. She frowned slightly at the disturbance of the
peaceful morning but got up to answer the door.

She blinked when she saw Kimeko standing there. "Kimeko-chan? I thought
I told you that we wouldn't be needing you today?" Serenity stated
softly, "More specifically, I thought I told you to take the day off."

"Hai Serenity-sama," Kimeko answered as she moved into the hallway.
"However, I need to pay Misako back for such a lovely day yesterday."
Her voice dripped with sarcasm. <I think I'm getting a cold.>

"What have you got planned?" Serenity asked as they made their way down
the hall towards Misako's room. "I mean she doesn't have to go to school
today since it's part of their Christmas break and all."

"Serenity-chan, may I have some ice in a glass."

"Ice?" Serenity questioned while raising an eyebrow.

"Hai, seven ice cubes please," Kimeko requested, "In a glass if that
isn't too much trouble." Serenity gave Kimeko a curious look before
heading to the kitchen to get the requested items. A minute or so later,
she returned and handed the glass over to Kimeko. "Arigato," the young
woman said and gently opened Misako's door.

Serenity watched with intrigue as Kimeko softly entered the room and
slowly approached the little girl's bed. Carefully, Kimeko drew the
blankets back from Misako's bed and smiled. Misako was lying on her
stomach. Kimeko wasn't going to have as much difficulty as she had first
thought.

Gently Kimeko unbuttoned one of the buttons on the rear flap and pulled
it up. Misako squirmed some and waved her arm a little, searching for
the covers. Kimeko froze and waited until Misako had settled back into
sleep, shivering a little at the cool room air that was being exposed to
her skin.

<Get me all dirty, wet, and cold, will you,> Kimeko thought darkly,
<Then I think you don't deserve to sleep in.> With two quick motions,
Kimeko opened the flap as wide as it could go and chucked the glass'
contents into the opening.

Misako's reaction was immediate. The little girl's eyes snapped open as
she rolled to her back. This was a large mistake because it just
intensified the cold wetness she was feeling. Given a screech of shock
and panic, Misako lunged from the bed and started running around the
room while grabbing at the rear of her pajamas. She was desperately
trying to deduce what was happening but was having very little luck
doing so.

Kimeko started to giggle uncontrollably as Misako dashed about trying in
vain to separate the cold wetness from herself. Serenity was fighting
feeling pity, irritation, and mirth at the same time. She was pitying
Misako because the little girl thought that something was truly wrong.
She was irritated because Kimeko hadn't considered that Usagi and
Endymion were still sleeping. She felt mirth at the sight of her
daughter; however, her motherly instincts kicked in and she went to
soothe her daughter.

"Miko-chan," Serenity called.

"MOMMY!!!!" she cried as she ran to Serenity, "It's so cold!!!!" She
hugged Serenity and looked pleadingly towards her mother.

"Go into the bathroom and take your pajamas off," Serenity instructed.
Misako didn't waste any time and darted into the bathroom. She barely
remembered to close the bathroom door behind her. "Kimeko-chan, that was
very cruel!"

"What's going on?!?" Usagi demanded as she came running into the room.
"I heard Misako screaming and I thought she was hurt." Her eyes looked
wide and scared as she searched her little sister's room.

"I just put seven ice cubes down her pajama bottoms," Kimeko stated
while snickering, "She got me so filthy yesterday, and then
Endymion-sama takes a picture." <It was so embarrassing.> She was about
to break into a new fit of giggles when a bleary-eyed and an irritated
Endymion looked into the bedroom door. Kimeko gulped slightly. "Maybe I
should get Misako some clothes," she said as she walked over to the
door.

"That's not very nice!" Misako declared as she peeked around the
bathroom door, "Kimeko, I was just playin' yesterday. You scared me!"
She gave her guardian a fiery glare.

"Well, Miko-chan, you knew I didn't want to get dirty," Kimeko retorted
as she handed Misako some clean clothes, "It could have been much worse.
I suppose I could have stood you in the corner for most of the day."
Misako rapidly shook her head. "It was only seven ice cubes," Kimeko
continued, "I coulda used pudding." This sent Misako off into a fit of
giggles as Usagi blushed brightly.

But thanks to Kimeko's trick, Usagi had an idea for a Christmas gift for
Misako. Something that Misako was bound to appreciate.

Misako quickly dressed and, coming out, said, "I just wanted you to come
and play with us, Kimeko-oneechan." She looked hopefully towards the
older girl while saying, "Gomen nasai." She smiled as Kimeko lifted her
into a hug and she added, "You're the bestest onee." Misako never saw
Usagi wince, but had she, it would be unlikely she would have cared
anyway.

                                  ******

Indeed, Misako greatly appreciated Usagi's gift. The little girl was
very happy to get a new pair of bunny pajamas WITHOUT the rear flap. In
fact, she went out of her way to proudly point that particular feature
out to Kimeko.

As December finally ended, January took over and with it, the snow came.
For five straight days, the dark skies streamed out the fluffy whiteness
covering the city in a think blanket of snow. This proved to be one of
the few times Misako and Usagi regretted living within the Palace
grounds. While the other Crystal Tokyo schools were shutdown due to the
weather, the Palace school was quite open and operating at almost a
normal level. That meant Usagi and Misako had to go to school.

As January crept along two main factors were causing Usagi a lot of
hardship. Firstly was the approach of final exams. Usagi's grades had
being slipping constantly and she was in danger of failing all of her
classes. Secondly was that Usagi had started to develop sleeping habits
like her mother. Although certainly not as prevalent as her mother's
former sleeping habits, Usagi was worried that any type of tardiness
would drag her already poor marks down even further.

Even Kimeko was finding the approaching final exams pressing upon her.
As the time approached, she started to become ill tempered and cranky.
Misako was at a true loss to explain what Kimeko was worried about
though. Unlike her sister, Kimeko was very intelligent. She herself
wasn't worried. She was carrying an "A-" average through her subjects.
Although the work at school was hard and certainly boring, she never
complained. Better to have an approving parent than a disapproving one.

Soon though, the day that most students feared arrived. It was the day
that final reports were issued before final examinations began. Unlike
the other report cards, Ami made it one of her personal tasks to hand
deliver them to each house. This was to ensure that the parents got
them. Somehow though, she always seemed to leave the Royal Family for
the last.

At that moment, this strategy was causing Usagi to pace back and forth
after school that dark day. She was in her room trying to decide how she
was going to redecorate it. <I'm going to be spending a lot of time
looking at these walls,> Usagi glumly thought as she paced the length of
her room. <When Mom and Dad see that report card, they're gonna kill
me!> She was midway through her tenth row of pacing when the private
door chime rang. The sudden need to use the bathroom came to mind,
mainly to get a locked door between her and her parents. "Oh! What am I
going to do?!?" Usagi desperately whined.

Oblivious to her sister's worries, Misako ran out into the hallway and
opened the door. "Konnichiwa Mizuno-sensei! That's a really pretty
dress," Misako greeted happily in a blur of words. Ami was dressed in a
deep blue dress that had a white collar lined with tiny violets. "Do you
got my report card?" the little girl questioned eagerly.

Ami smiled as she thought, <Just what I expected.> Bowing, she said,
"Konnichiwa Princess Misako. I knew you would want to see yours."

"Please come in," Misako said with enforced politeness. Her eyes never
left the briefcase that likely held the precious piece of paper.

"Arigato." Ami and Misako stepped into the hallway. "Are your parents
home, Misako-san?"

"Hai, or I wouldn'ta opened the door," Misako squeaked out.

"You should have waited for one of us to be with you," Serenity gently
admonished from the end of the hallway. "Please come in, Ami-chan."

After formally greeting Endymion and Serenity, Ami settled into one of
the arms chairs and opened the briefcase. She was about to start
speaking when she noticed that someone was missing. "Where's Princess
Usagi?" she asked.

"Oh Miko-chan, go get your onee," Serenity directed.

"'Kay!" Misako chirped and, hopping off the couch, went running to
retrieve her sister. There was a short pause and then Misako came back
alone, an unhappy look on her face. "Usagi won't come out. She says she
doesn't feel good." <I wanted to see Mommy and Daddy yell at her...>

"I'll get her," Endymion said and getting up walked purposefully out of
the room. There was an even longer pause then a very sheepish looking
Usagi came into the room while being led by the arm. "Okay, have a seat
by your sister," Endymion directed. Without a word, Usagi went and sat
beside her sister. This was better than she hoped; at least if her
mother went after her, Misako would be in the way.

<I understand completely. If I were facing the prospect of getting what
you're getting, I'd likely be in the same shape,> Ami thought. "Whose do
you wish to see first, Your Majesty?" she asked.

"Misako's please," Serenity responded, "We've already discussed Usagi's
grades before." Usagi lowered her head and looked towards the floor, a
light blush coming on to her face.

Nodding, Ami retrieved the appropriate report and handed it to Serenity.
"I am quite pleased with Princess Misako's efforts. All of her sensei
have expressed their delight in having her in their class." Misako
smiled with pride and puffed her chest out. "She appears to be a
diligent student. Obviously her grade level does not perform any type of
major final exam but she did get onto the Dean's List. Congratulations,
Princess Misako."

<See 'Sagi!> Misako gloated silently, <I'm not a baka like you.> She'd
hold off asking for anything though; it would spoil her plans. She also
liked school although school in the past was a lot more interesting. The
work was hard but it was worth the effort to show Usagi up in front of
her parents. <I'm not a little kid,> Misako thought, <I might be littler
than you but I got better grades!>

"This is very good, Miko-chan. We are very proud of you," Serenity
cooed, "You're even ahead of the marks I got when I went to school."

"Really?" Misako questioned, her eyes going wide in surprise.

"Well, I did get a very rare `A' later on." Ami gave Serenity a knowing
look. "But most of your marks are an 'A' or 'A-'."

"Except... Physical Education that is," Endymion pointed out. A slightly
panicked expression came on Misako's face. "You got an 'A+' in that."
Misako gave a cheer and hugged her father. "Why are you hugging me? You
earned it. I didn't have anything to do with you getting an 'A+' in gym
class."

"You did so," Serenity muttered out. This got a blank look from Misako
but Endymion and Ami gave her knowing looks that caused Serenity to
blush. Usagi felt a smile tug at her face but she didn't want to draw
attention to herself.

"But Daddy, you're really good," Misako said, "I'm just like you are."
She was about to add that Usagi was just like her mother but she stopped
herself in time. She giggled and Endymion hugged her.

"I think this news calls for a press release. I'll have Hiroshi work
something up," Endymion commented, "I can't believe it, my daughter on
the Dean's List!" He hugged Misako tightly while pride seemed to ooze
from him in one continuous stream.

<I wish Usagi had been first,> Ami thought. "Perhaps it would be better
if we discussed Princess Usagi's report card in private, Your Majesty,"
Ami suggested.

Endymion and Serenity shared a look before Endymion said, "Miko-chan,
would you do me a favor?"

"Nani?" Misako questioned.

"Could you go play quietly in your room while we talk to Mizuno-sensei?"
Endymion asked.

"You're gonna yell at 'Sagi, ne?" Misako questioned. A surprised look
came over her parents' faces and she said, "Why can't I listen?"

Lifting her off his lap, Endymion instructed, "Miko-chan, go on to your
room and we'll come and get you when you can come out." He then gave her
a gentle push to get her on her way. Pouting slightly, Misako gave her
mother a hug and then wandered out of the room. "ALL the way into your
room, young lady," Endymion said after a few moments while getting up.

"Aw!" Misako complained but stomped into her room and closed the door
with a thump. Shaking his head, Endymion sat down.

"Is it that bad?" Serenity questioned.

"As Your Majesty knows, Princess Usagi has been having great difficulty
of late, barely passing her subjects," Ami announced while looking at
her notes, "Princess Usagi barely managed to achieve a `D-' average."
Usagi groaned suddenly causing Ami to look worriedly towards the young
girl. "Are you all right, Your Highness?"

"I think I'm gonna be sick," Usagi replied. <I'm doomed.> The worse part
of it was that Usagi realized that she could have done better. <I just
want to go hide someplace for a million years.> Maybe the world wouldn't
be so against her by then.

"Your Majesties, as you know there has been a significant decline in
Princess Usagi's marks over the past few months. We have noticed that
she is not attentive in class, has turned in poor homework and
assignments, and has failed her last three tests." Ami grimaced and
continued, "Unless Princess Usagi achieves a mark of at least seventy on
each of her remaining exams, I will have no choice but to have her
repeat Grade Five."

"That's impossible!" Usagi wailed piteously, "I'll never get a seventy.
I've failed my last three tests. How am I going to get a SEVENTY in
EVERY exam?!"

"The final exams are written at the end of January. That gives you time
to find a tutor and to study, Your Highness," Ami stated, "It is
possible. Your earlier grade levels and work shows that if you apply
yourself, you can do well." <You're just like your mother was.>

Usagi just sat silently, head lowered in sadness. <How could I ever talk
to Hana and the others?> Usagi thought, <How could I ever face them
again? And the Press!?!> It wouldn't help her case with Sakuya either.
She felt a strong arm wrap around her in a hug. Sniffling a little, she
looked up to see her father looking at her.

"We think you can do this, Usagi," Endymion said, "I know it looks
impossible but I know you can do this."

"Hai," Serenity agreed while getting up. She walked over to kneel beside
her daughter and said, "I know you think it's hopeless but I know you
can do it. I certainly did it. You remember, ne Imouto?" A smile spread
across her face as she hugged her daughter, "What if I got Sawa to help
tutor you? I think she'd do it."

"Hai... maybe I should ask her, Mom," Usagi suggested softly while
hugging her mother, "I mean I did get myself into this." Sniffling a
little, she turned to her father and said, "You gonna ground me?"

"Iie..." Serenity started to say but Endymion quickly cut her off.

"Hai," Endymion said, a twinkle in his eye, "I think until after you're
final exams will be fine." He then gave Usagi a wink.

"Dad, you're the greatest!" Usagi declared and gave her father a hug.

"Um... did I just miss something?" Serenity questioned as she looked
from Ami back to Endymion and Usagi.

"Well if Usagi's going to work hard, we can't have her friends thinking
she's going to be some type of nerd or something," Endymion explained.
He then gave Ami an apologetic look but she smiled in understanding.
"This just gives her a convenient excuse for her friends if they want
her to go with them." Endymion then rumpled Usagi's hair, "Besides, I
think grounding her will ensure she buckles down and takes her tutoring
with Sawa seriously." His tone indicated that Usagi had better take his
words seriously.

"I don't think I like being placed in the role of an oppressor,"
Serenity quipped.

"Well either that or Usagi can suffer the peer pressure of her friends
and be held back," Endymion retorted smoothly. There weren't any further
objections; no one wanted to see Usagi fail.

                                  ******

While Usagi was facing having to spend the next year in the same grade,
Kimeko was desperately wishing she was failing. She, along with Minako
and Sakuya were sitting at the dining table drinking tea. Masao lounged
against the couch waiting for supper to be ready so he could eat.

"That's very good, Ko-chan," Sakuya cooed and rumpled Kimeko's hair.
Kimeko gave Sakuya a strange look. The older woman was definitely not
herself tonight. Maybe she was hanging around Minako too much. "And to
think, you were a tiny squirt whose brother abandoned her," Sakuya added
without even noticing Kimeko's concerned look.

"Hey!" Masao squawked from his position on the couch. Standing up, he
came to stand beside his sister and said, "You don't have a clue how
much of a pain my imouto was."

"I certainly was NOT a pain!" Kimeko protested, "YOU were the pain. You
just happen to annoy yourself too!" This got a giggle out of Sakuya and
Minako.

"You leave your sister alone," Minako admonished Masao.

"Hai Okaa-san," Masao sighed, "But are you forgetting this is the kid
that not only skinned poor ol' Artemis but managed to break her bed by
bouncing on it."

"And I suppose you were a perfect angel?" Kimeko quipped.

"I got on the Dean's List," Masao pointed out and jumped backwards as
Kimeko took a shot towards him.

"Children..." Sakuya sighed, "You can't live with them and if you have
them, you're stuck until you die."

"I know what you mean, Sako-chan," Minako sighed, a bored expression on
her face.

"Nani?!?" Masao and Kimeko questioned, now staring at their mother.

"Hmmm... oh when did you guys get here?" Minako questioned.

"Way to go, Imouto. I knew I wouldn't be the one to drive Mom around the
bend." Grinning, Masao took off with a very irate Kimeko close behind
him.

"Are you going to be okay?" Sakuya asked.

"Oh Sako-chan," Minako said, "I think sometimes I am losing my mind.
They're growing up so fast. Soon Kimeko will be gone to Officers
Candidate School and then this house will seem so empty."

"I think you should talk to Sobo," Sakuya pointed out. She flicked her
eyes over towards where Masao was begging Kimeko for his life. "Um
Minako-chan... shouldn't you stop that?"

Minako flicked her eyes over and noticed what was occurring. "Young
lady, leave you brother alone and get over here!" Minako sternly
ordered.

"Is that how you fight battles?" Kimeko teased her brother, "Onii-chan
gets `Mommy' to come and fight for him?" Fortunately for Kimeko, Minako
intervened and dragged both of her children back over to the table.

"Now sit down," Minako ordered in one of her more commanding tones.

"Hai Ma'am," both Kimeko and Masao squeaked.

Picking up Kimeko's report card, Masao said, "Gomen nasai, Imouto, I'm
really proud of you." Kimeko cocked an eye brow in question but didn't
respond. "I don't think I could have done this well if I was as busy as
you."

"Arigato," Kimeko replied, "So you notice I have things to do?"

"Hai," Masao said, a more serious tone in his voice, "Come on, Kimeko, I
always keep an eye out for you." Grinning slightly, he continued, "Just
that the OCS training course is no picnic." He turned to Sakuya, "Except
for you I hear."

"Oh and what do you hear?" Sakuya asked, a slightly amused expression on
her face.

"I hear you got almost perfect scores," Masao stated.

"Cone on, Onii-chan," Kimeko commented, "Sakuya woulda got all perfect
scores except that one guy doesn't believe in giving perfect hundreds."
A twinkle ran through her eyes as she said, "And you weren't too far off
Sakuya's marks yourself. You had the brains for it though. Sakuya did so
great 'cause she's just plain stubborn." She then giggled as Sakuya gave
her a dangerous look. "Well it's true."

"Be nice to your elders, Ko-chan, or I'll have to think up something
nasty to happen to you," Sakuya growled out.

Getting up, Kimeko wandered towards the door, stopped, and mused, "You
know, Sako-chan, you and Onii are perfect for each other."

"Nani?" Sakuya and Masao said in unison.

"Well... then again, you are both bullheaded and so driven. I suppose
your kids would come out with marching orders." She then giggled as she
darted out of the apartment.

"Bullheaded?" Masao asked.

"Driven?" Sakuya questioned in response. "I think we should go and thank
her for the great compliments," Sakuya added after a lengthy pause.

"I am in total agreement." Standing, Masao suggested, "Admiral's first."

"Arigato Commander," Sakuya said and, giving Minako a grin, slipped from
the apartment. "Oh Minako-chan... I wouldn't wait up for Kimeko if I
were you. She might be a tad busy."

                                 ******

The late April weather was crisp and clean. There was a hint of rain in
the air as a small bank of medium gray clouds drifted towards the city.
Misako finished emptying the tin of cat food into Mika's dish and then
set about the none-too-pleasant task of cleaning the kitty litter.

<Wish 'Sagi'd do this,> Misako thought but it was part of her job. At
first she had only been allowed to feed Mika but as she was nearly
eight, she had been given the extra chore of cleaning the kitty litter
box. She giggled as Mika rubbed against her bare leg. "Stop that, Mika,
please," Misako requested and giggled again as Mika gave her a quizzical
look.

<Kimeko moved out of her house. I bet Minako was really sad,> Misako
thought as she tried not to breathe, <Stinky stuff.> There was no way
Usagi could help although she had offered. Mika detested Usagi with a
passion. Kimeko's Russian Blue cat didn't like Diana's odor that was on
Usagi. Usagi really couldn't help it though, the gray kitten was a
constant companion of Usagi's unless she was busy with her parents.

"Miko-chan, are you almost done?" Usagi questioned from outside the
apartment door, "I gotta get home and do my homework!" <There's no way
I'm going to go through what I did in January again.> She had passed, by
the skin of her teeth. With Sawa's help, she cleared each exam with a
score between seventy and seventy-three. That had earned her a "D-"
average for the entire year. <I want to make Mom and Dad proud.> She
knew that they were but her ego wouldn't allow that terrible grade to
fade into some dark corner of her mind.

"Just a minute!" Misako replied back. <Baka, I have to be careful.> It
wouldn't do to make a mess in Kimeko's new apartment. <I got homework
too,> Misako darkly thought, <You're not special when it comes to
school.> Once she was finished, she gave Mika a scratch behind the ear
and said, "See you later, Mika. I gotta go or that baka Odango Atama
will start yelling," Misako explained. Mika made a mewing sound as if
saying good-bye and then headed for the window to find a sunny spot to
have a nap before Kimeko came back.

"Finally," Usagi huffed when Misako came out of the apartment, "Come on,
Misako, I have to do my homework so I can go to the movies with Hana and
the others."

"Well you could have left me alone, Usagi. We're in the Senshi wing,"
Misako griped as they started to head for home.

"Iie, Mom and Dad made it clear. If there's no guardian around, I have
to keep an eye on you. If I showed up home without you, Dad would kill
me. Then Mom would bring me back and kill me all over again," Usagi
snickered. <Kami-sama, why did it take so long to do such a simple job?>
"I bet you were raiding Kimeko's cookie jar."

"Was not!" Misako protested, "Usagi, that wouldn't be nice," she grumped
and hefted her bookbag over her shoulder. <Baka Odango Atama.>

They walked in silence for several seconds down the long corridor that
was the Younger Senshi wing; the area where the Younger Senshi had their
own quarters if they wished. As they walked, a heavy silence fell over
them, each girl retreating into her own thoughts and problems, pretty
much ignoring the other. As they turned a corner, Usagi came to an
abrupt halt.

"Hey!" Misako protested when she bumped into Usagi, "Watch where you're
going!"

"Why'd I come this way?" Usagi asked, more to herself. A short distance
away was Sakuya's quarters. She was about to turn around and head back
the way they had came when Sakuya's door opened. Usagi froze, half
hoping to see Sakuya. The person that left though was a complete
surprise to her. "HANA?!?" Usagi cried in surprise, a streak of red-hot
jealously running through her. "Here hold this!" Usagi ordered and
shoved her book towards Misako before stalking towards her friend who
was looking both surprised and nervous.

"Hi Usagi-chan," Hana called meekly, "What're you doing here?"

"What am `I' doing here?!" Usagi asked in disbelief, "What are you doing
here?"

"Rakurai-san is tutoring me in math," Hana answered.

"I don't believe it. Sakuya hates kids! It's a wonder she even puts up
with a whiny brat like Misako!" Usagi protested loudly, "You gotta be
doing something else."

"Usagi," Hana said with some exasperation, "I didn't lie. Rakurai-san is
giving me help in math. She's also helping me with my English too. My
parents hired her if you really must know."

Usagi was about to retort angrily when Sakuya's voice stopped her cold.
"And do you two really find it necessary to squabble outside my front
door?" Sakuya questioned, her eyes glinting coldly.

"Gomen nasai, Rakurai-san," Hana squeaked and, giving a quick bow to
both Sakuya and Usagi, took off down one of the other hallways.

Usagi gulped, opened her mouth, and then sighed. <What's the use?> Usagi
thought. "Gomen nasai, Rakurai-san. I was just surprised to see Hana."
She desperately thought for something to say and then said, "Do you...
would you help me with my math?"

For the first time, Usagi saw a pained expression flash through Sakuya's
eyes but it was quickly suppressed. "I am truly sorry, Princess Usagi,
but I have other obligations that keep me fairly busy. If you will
please excuse me now." Sakuya gave Usagi a stiff bow and, after
retreating into the apartment, closed the door.

Sadly, Usagi turned. She blinked back the tears that wanted to come. Why
had she ever gone down this hallway, habit likely. Then something drew
her attention. In the hallway were two bookbags. <Misako?> Usagi
questioned her mind not really comprehending what her brain was telling
her. Then it hit her like a tidal wave. Misako was gone, nothing left
but her book bag, leaning slightly against the wall. All three hallways
empty and bare. It was as if the very air itself had swallowed Misako
leaving Usagi truly alone once again.

End of Chapter 7

Coming next week in Chapter 8 - Little Girl Lost