Part IX
Chapter 21 - Parting

After visiting Sakuya, Chibi-Usa came home and was promptly scolded for
hurting Misako's feelings. She had been "informed" that the next day she
would be giving her room a thorough cleaning as punishment. That didn't
really bother Chibi-Usa because she had expected something like that to
occur.

What really DID bother Chibi-Usa was Misako trying to ignore her. Any
attempt Chibi-Usa made to talk to her little sister only failed
miserably. As the evening progressed Chibi-Usa began to feel slightly
guilty. It was apparent that although Misako was still angry at Usagi,
she was even angrier at Chibi-Usa.

So it was that evening that Chibi-Usa made the first attempt at peace.
The two little girls were lying in bed. Misako had woken up when
Chibi-Usa had come to bed. As they lay there Chibi-Usa turned to her
sister and said, "Please, Miko-chan, I didn't mean to hurt your
feelings." Misako's response was to roll over to her side facing away
from Chibi-Usa.

<I'm in enough trouble already,> Chibi-Usa thought, <I guess I did take
it a little too far.> She tried to think of something that would cheer
her sister up. <What would make her happy?> Then an idea popped into her
mind, "Miko-chan?" Chibi-Usa called softly, the last thing she needed
was Ikuko or Usagi hearing her up past her bedtime.

"Nani?" Misako demanded testily. <Why not she leave me alone? Baka
Onee!>

"Would you like to hug Chibi-Shingo?" Chibi-Usa asked. She remembered
back to when Misako gave her Chibi-Shingo for the first time. <I really
like this bear but I think my imouto needs to have it for a while.>

"But it YOUR bear," Misako stated darkly. <Onee not nice to tease me...>
A small pout formed on her face as she rolled over to look at Chibi-Usa.

"I really am sorry for teasing you, Miko-chan. I know I hurt your
feelings." Chibi-Usa squirmed a little bit, "I just don't want you to
get hurt."

<Onee think I little!> Misako then considered, "But Chibi-Shingo your
bear." <Why I give bear to baka Onee? She not nice.>

"But he can be your bear," Chibi-Usa suggested. <At least until you
forgive me...> "Honest, you can have him for a little while."

Reaching over Misako took the teddy bear and said, "I think if I forgive
you but not now." She rolled over to the wall while hugging the teddy
bear tight.

<At least she's going to think about it,> Chibi-Usa sighed before
drifting off into sleep.

                                  ******

It was early the next morning before Makoto stirred. Making a face she
considered if she really wanted to get up. <I better, my bladder's
telling me I have to so...> Gingerly she moved, <Not as painful today.
Kami-sama, that medication is strong stuff. Better not take anymore
unless I absolutely have to.> Walking out into the hallway she smelled
something delicious cooking. Her stomach rumbled at the thought of food.
<How long did I sleep?> she wondered as she entered the bathroom.

When she came back out a few minutes later she saw Sakuya waiting for
her at the end of the hall. "Good morning, Obaa-san," her granddaughter
called, "How are you feeling this morning?"

"Did you sleep well?" Makoto asked noticing Sakuya's haggard expression.
Sakuya nodded her head, "How long have I been out, Sako-chan?" she asked
as she made her way towards the kitchen.

"About sixteen hours," Sakuya replied, "Want some juice?"

"Hai, arigato... My shoulder's still sore and feels a little stiff but
it isn't as painful as yesterday." Makoto flopped down at the table
running a hand through her hair. She looked around, "How long have you
been up?"

"Oh for about half an hour." Seeing that the food she was preparing was
done, she got two plates out and served both herself and Makoto
breakfast. "Hope you like it, Mako-chan. I'm not as good a cook as you."

Makoto shook her head slightly, "Don't kid yourself." She was about to
say more but noticed a neatly addressed letter to Usagi and Chibi-Usa
sitting on the table. "What's that?" she asked curiously. <Uh oh...> she
thought as she saw Sakuya's pleasant expression take on a serious one,
"What's the matter?"

"Obaa-san, I have to go back. I'm leaving today." There was a small
quiver in Sakuya's voice.

"Nani?!?!" Makoto nearly shouted, "You said you'd stay until Chibi-Usa
left, she..."

"Iie," Sakuya interrupted, "I said I would see if I could. I can't. I
have something to do in the future." <Please don't make this any
harder.>

"Damn it, Sakuya!" Makoto shouted. Thumping the table and getting up she
stalked away from the table, "Can't you forget about your duty for once?
I, your grandmother, DON'T WANT YOU TO GO!" She turned around and glared
at Sakuya, "Stay, please... Can't you wait until Chibi-Usa goes home,
please?" <I know I'll never see you again until...>

"I can't stay here. It would set Kimeko a bad example. I have a duty to
return. I can't take the chance that Kimeko will say something to
Chibi-Usa before I go. Chibi-Usa would likely want to stop me."

"Why not?!" Makoto said hurt, "Please Sako-chan, you've been hiding
things from me... I know you can't talk about the future but these
problems just aren't affecting you! They're affecting me! Don't you
think you can trust me?!" Makoto's voice cracked and she turned away.

Sakuya got up slowly, and walked over to Makoto. "Obaa-san?" There was
no response but a sniffle from Makoto. "Mako-chan, please don't cry."
<I feel guilty enough already.>

Makoto slowly turned, "Why not?" she demanded hotly, "I tried to keep my
emotions under control... I was just getting used to having no real
family... Then you came into my life!" Makoto's body trembled as she
sobbed, "You come in here, turn my life upside-down, make me happy, and
now you want to take that away!!"

Sakuya reached out and started to draw Makoto into a hug. Makoto
resisted at first but then allowed the embrace. "Gomen, I would tell you
if I could but I'm scared what might happen if I did. I love you so very
much and I don't want to hurt you." Sakuya felt tears running down her
own face.

"Then why go?" Makoto whispered hanging onto Sakuya, "Please tell me!
WHY?!?"

"I can't answer that," Sakuya said firmly, "Gomen nasai, Obaa-san, but I
can't tell you."

Makoto pushed Sakuya away, "Do you like hurting me!?!?"

Sakuya bristled before slumping where she stood, "I did something that
carries consequences with it. I have to go back and face those
consequences. If I don't, then what kind of example does that set for
Kimeko and the other Senshi? What does it tell Chibi-Usa?" Sakuya looked
at Makoto but she had turned her back to Sakuya. "Obaa..."

"Get out..." Makoto snapped.

"Nani?"

"GET OUT!!!" Makoto yelled turning to face Sakuya, "You have to go, so
GO! What am I supposed to feel? Happy that you aren't staying? You keep
me in the dark! Am I just supposed to let that happen?!?"

Sakuya headed for the door, "I'll swing by later to get my things,
Obaa-san. I need to talk to Kimeko."

"GO!!!!" Makoto demanded with a pained voice jabbing at the door.

She put her shoes on and started out the door. Turning back she looked
at Makoto and said, "Gomen, I love you, Makoto... I always have, like I
was your daughter. You were a mother to me. Someone that I desperately
needed in my life when I was thirteen. I don't mean to be cruel. Please
give the letter to Chibi-Usa and Usagi after I've gone." She slipped
from the apartment then.

Makoto stared after her granddaughter before breaking down into tears.
<Gomen... Please don't go, Sakuya... I need you now.>

                                  ******

Minako walked into her room and looked seriously at Kimeko. It was
almost ten in the morning, "Kimeko-chan, Sakuya's here and she wants to
talk to you."

"What about?" Kimeko asked nervously as she headed for the door. <Maybe
it was about the fight the day before. I sure made a mess of it.>

"I don't know," Minako said seriously, "But whatever it is, it's really
got her upset." <It looks like Sakuya's been crying.>

Kimeko stopped and blinked at Minako, "Upset, Sakuya?!?" <This is not
good!> Minako nodded. Kimeko quickly went down the stairs and saw Sakuya
waiting by the door. "Good morning, Sako-chan, Minako said you wanted to
talk to me?"

"Hai, alone please. Let's go for a walk, Kimeko," Sakuya instructed.
Kimeko nodded and got on her shoes. "Gomen, Minako-chan, I-I just need
to talk." <I wish I could tell you. You were always there for me.>

"I understand, Sako-chan," Minako answered. <She's never looked this
worried before.> She walked over after the pair had left the house and
watched them until they were out of sight. <I hope everything's okay.>

"Sako-chan, if it's about yesterday..." Kimeko began.

"Iie, you did what you could. I would have been caught by that too."
That response wasn't much comfort to Kimeko. They walked in silence for
several minutes before Sakuya said, "I'm going back to the future
today."

"Nani?!?" Kimeko asked surprised, "But why?"

"To face the consequences of my actions," Sakuya answered somberly, "It
really hurt Makoto that I was leaving." She gave a sigh, "I need to
leave today. Things got out of hand yesterday. I'm becoming a risk to
the Senshi." <And to the timeline.>

"Sako-chan," Kimeko said, "What happened yesterday was not your fault!"
Sakuya looked unconvinced, "It wasn't. Would Makoto have gotten hurt if
you hadn't of been there?" Sakuya looked thoughtful for a moment before
shrugging, "See you don't know, neither do I." <Come on you can see it
as well as I can, it's just an excuse!>

Sakuya smiled slightly, "I guess you're right, Kimeko-chan."

"As for going back, please don't," Kimeko said firmly, "If Pluto hasn't
come and got you yet, then they must not want you back very badly."
Sakuya stopped walking and stared at Kimeko in surprise, "Oh Sako-chan,
don't act like that. You did what you had to do. In my book you did the
right thing. Look, what would have happened to Small Lady if you hadn't
of come here?"

"But what I did could have seriously altered things, altered the
timeline. Kami-sama, I attacked three Senshi!" Sakuya hissed. Not
wanting the public to overhear their conversation, they continued to
walk until they reached the park. Losing themselves deep in one of the
few less traveled areas Sakuya continued, "That, by itself, has serious
consequences. If I don't go back, then I could be declared a traitor! A
criminal!"

"Honestly!" Kimeko said exasperated, "You saved the Princess possibly
the other Senshi! How mad can they be at you?" <Mom would never condemn
you.>

"Kimeko, I HAVE to go back," Sakuya stated firmly, "I have to face the
charges that they'll put before me. I hope I can defend myself well
enough not to be sentenced but my case is shaky at best." Sakuya sat
down, "The toughest part will be being removed from my guardianship."

"Nani?!?!" Kimeko shouted, "You can't be serious! They'd remove you from
your post? Stop you from being Princess Usagi's guardian?!? I don't
believe it." <Her Majesty wouldn't do that.>

"ONLY having that happen is the best I can possibly hope for," Sakuya
reasoned. <I could be sentenced to death.>

"This is nonsense!" Kimeko spoke with emotion, "It's maddening. Listen
to yourself!" Sakuya looked at Kimeko questioningly, "Mom would help.
Tell her or speak to Usagi here in the past. Her Majesty could grant you
immunity as long as you remained here. Makoto wouldn't mind you around.
I don't think the others would either." Sakuya started to protest but
Kimeko cut her off, "Don't you even start to say that you have to. It's
that bloody sense of duty that's clouding your common sense!"

Sakuya got up and stalked over to Kimeko, "YOUNGER Venus," Sakuya began
menacingly, "My duty is everything to me. I would do anything to keep
Small Lady safe. I did and I have to pay for my actions! Common sense
has nothing to do with it. What am I teaching you by running away from
the consequences of my actions? What am I showing Princess Usagi? There
is more to being a Sailor Senshi than just fighting."

"Please Sakuya?" Kimeko said softly, "I didn't mean that you weren't
committed, I just... I just don't want our friendship to end." Kimeko
turned slightly, "Her Majesty said that we could learn from each other.
I would gain a sense of duty and you would gain... Well let's call them
`social' skills?" Sakuya smirked which caused Kimeko to smirk.  "Are you
going to at least say good-bye to Small Lady?"

"Iie," <I wish I could,> Sakuya replied. She winced at Kimeko's sharp
look, "Please, Kimeko-chan, I'm not that heartless but I think it would
be easier. She might try and order me to stay... That would be bad, and
considering what I told her yesterday, I don't think she'd have any
qualms about ordering me to stay in the past. I certainly know that
Usagi would back Chibi-Usa's decision and that would make it even more
difficult because I still would have to leave."

Kimeko nodded, "Hai, I guess I can see why you're not going to tell
them."

"I am, Kimeko-chan. I have a letter prepared to them. It doesn't
describe everything but there are enough reasons for me to head back. If
Small Lady wants to talk, then you can tell her all of it but only AFTER
I've left. I'll be gone by late this afternoon."

They looked at each for a long moment, then unexpectedly Sakuya
sniffled. "Don't you dare cry!" Kimeko demanded.

"And why not?!?"

"Because I'm going to!!!!"

                                  ******

"Onee-san?" Chibi-Usa queried stepping into Usagi's room just after
lunch, "I finished cleaning my room... Can I go out for a while? I want
to talk to Kimeko about something."

"Let me see what type of job you did on your room, Imouto," Usagi
answered and walked out of her room and down the hall into Chibi-Usa's.
<Wow! It's cleaner than mine!> She checked to make sure things weren't
just stuffed into the closet or under the bed. <I wish she'd talk to me.
Ever since she came home last night, Chibi-Usa's been acting really
weird.> After finishing her inspection Usagi turned to Chibi-Usa and
said, "Hai Chibi-Usa-chan you can go, supper is when?"

"At five," Chibi-Usa replied, "I know, `be home on time'... I really
didn't mean to hurt Misako's feelings; I was only trying to help."

Usagi folded her arms and commented, "Chibi-Usa-chan, if that smug
expression hadn't have been on your face, I'd believe you." She walked
over and said, "I know you care about Misako and were trying to help but
don't you think you carried things just a little too far? I mean I
already handled it, ne?"

"Hai Onee-san," Chibi-Usa said sheepishly, "I don't know... I promise
I'll try and be nicer to Misako, okay?"

"Iie," Usagi retorted gently. Chibi-Usa blinked, "I want you to be nice
to your sister because you love her, not because I told you to."

Chibi-Usa stood up on her tiptoes and brushed Usagi's bangs away from
her forehead, "Nope, you haven't changed to Neo-Queen Serenity."

"Get out of here!" Usagi quipped giving a mock growl of annoyance.
Chibi-Usa giggled and tore off out of the room and down the stairs.
Usagi sighed, picked up Chibi-Shingo, and flopped onto the bed.
<Kami-sama... It'll be a blast to watch her grow up from a baby!>

                                  ******

"Hello Tsukino-san, Miko-chan," Sakuya greeted. It was just past lunch.
She and Kimeko had gone out for lunch to talk some more and to have a
little more time together before Sakuya's departure. <I'm proud of her.
I think she knows that.>

"Oh konnichiwa Rakurai-san," Ikuko replied, "Misako doesn't seem to be
very happy." She looked down at the little girl whose hand she was
holding, "She's been giving Chibi-Usa the silent treatment and Usagi, in
general, a hard time."

Sakuya squatted down and asked, "Miko-chan, what's the matter?"

"Nothin'," Misako said sadly. She sniffled a little. "Obaa-san, can we
go see Daddy?"

Ikuko gave a silent sigh, <I wish she'd stop doing that.> "Honey, why
don't you go play on the slide over there." She let go of Misako's hand
gave her a gentle push in the right direction, "I don't really
understand it. Well I guess I do but she just won't cheer up. She keeps
mumbling things but won't tell me." They watched as Misako climbed to
the top of the slide and then just sat there, head lowered, her small
pigtails flapping in the gentle breeze that was blowing in off the
ocean.

"What if I try and cheer her up, Tsukino-san?" Sakuya offered, "I could
swing by Mamoru's and drop her off if you'd allow it."

Ikuko looked at her watch, "Would you? Arigato. I would appreciate it, I
have errands to run. If Mamoru isn't home, just bring Misako back home.
Usagi said she was going to stay home for most of the afternoon."

"I won't mind a bit," Sakuya said.

"Misako!" Ikuko called, the little girl looked up, "Miko-chan,
Rakurai-san is going to take you over to Mamoru's, okay?"

"Hai!" Misako declared a flash of joy coming to her. She slid down the
slide and ran over to her grandmother. "Arigato, Obaa-san."

Ikuko picked her up and said, "Now, supper is at five. How many is
five?" Misako concentrated and opened her palm fingers spread wide,
"Good girl!" Ikuko said, "Now I want you to be good."

<Not be good? For Sako-chan?!?> This thought spread through Misako's
mind, a look of incredulity spread across her face, "Hai, I be very
good." Ikuko gave her a hug before letting her down. "Ja ne, Obaa-san."

"Ja ne, Miko-chan," Ikuko waved, "Arigato, Rakurai-san." Sakuya nodded,
and with that Ikuko left the pair alone.

Sakuya picked Misako up and hugging her walked over to a bench, "Now why
are you so sad, Princess?"

A somber expression came across Misako's face, "Kim'ko mad at me. I
bad..." She sniffled, "Onee and Mommy mean too." She snuggled close to
Sakuya and closed her eyes. <You still like me.>

"Why do you think Kimeko's mad at you?"

"'Cause I hurt Kim'ko. She not tell Mommy that Mommy not spank me."
Misako opened her eyes and looked up into Sakuya's face. "I not mean to
be bad. I wanna help fight."

"Miko-chan, I don't think Kimeko's angry with you. I think you scared
her. She just wants to keep you safe." Misako opened her mouth but
Sakuya put a finger to the girl's lips, "Shhh.... listen." Misako closed
her mouth, "Did Kimeko say you could fight?" Misako shook her head, "Did
your Mommy say you could fight?" Misako shook her head again, "And did
you do what Mommy and Kimeko told you?"

"Iie, I bad," Misako squeaked.

"And Kimeko hugged you yesterday, didn't she?" Misako nodded, "Well
Kimeko wouldn't have done that if she was mad at you, ne?"

Misako gave this some thought. She was quiet for a good five minutes
before saying, "Kim'ko not mad cause she hugged me?" Sakuya nodded, some
of the tension finally drained from Misako; she became more like the
little girl that Sakuya knew. "We go see Daddy now, Sako-chan?"

"Hai, want a ride, or do you want to walk?"

"Ride!" Misako declared excitedly. <Not allowed before. Sako neat now!>
She giggled with delight as Sakuya stood up and then picking Misako up
settled the little girl on her shoulders. "Weee!!!!"

"Hang on tight!" Sakuya warned and started to move off towards Mamoru's
apartment building. <I'm glad that I can make you happy, Princess. I
hope I can see you grow up.> But something told Sakuya that she might
not have that chance. <Family...> Sakuya thought, <What would have
Makoto done if I had told her it was a little girl's dress I was looking
at?>

                                  ******

Mamoru answered the knock on the door and found that it was Misako and
Sakuya. <This is a change... And a pleasant one,> Mamoru thought,
usually it was Usagi and Chibi-Usa. <I've hardly seen Misako except on
the odd occasion.> "Konnichiwa, Sakuya-san, Miko-chan."

"Konnichiwa Mamoru-kun," Sakuya said and then mouthed word "bathroom"
while pointing at Misako.

"Hi Daddy...." Misako squeaked out while jiggling. Mamoru didn't delay
and ushered the pair in.

"It's in there," Mamoru said pointing to the bathroom, not bothering
with the guest slippers Misako immediately dashed into the bathroom and
closed the door. "I'm surprised to see you two together. I thought
Kimeko usually looks after her."

"I met Tsukino-san in the park," Sakuya retorted. "Mamoru-kun, I can't
stay. Could you please drop Misako at home by five?"

Mamoru blinked, "Tsu-Tsukino-san would trust me that much?!?" He
couldn't contain his shock. "I mean they know that Chibi-Usa comes over
here but Misako's only five." Mamoru seemed rather flustered.

"Mamoru-kun," Sakuya said gently, "She knows that they can trust you
because of Small Lady and Usagi. Also how can you argue with a kid who
calls the guy `Daddy'? That has to say something about you."

Mamoru looked sheepish, "I guess I'm just overreacting. I mean, it's
just that the last time I saw Usagi's parents her dad was a tad
irritated." Sakuya was about to respond but Misako chose that moment to
come out of the bathroom.

"Honey, I'm going to go now. You stay with Mamoru-kun. He'll take you
home, okay?" Sakuya asked bending down to look at Misako.

"Hai!" Misako chirped happily, "Bye!"

"Good-bye, and when is supper?"

"Ummm...." Misako tapped her lip for a few seconds before saying,
"Five!" Sakuya smiled broadly and patted Misako on the head.

"Good girl! Ja ne, Mamoru-kun." <I won't be seeing you for a long time.>

"Ja ne," Mamoru replied and watched Sakuya leave the apartment. He
turned back to find that Misako had a pensive look on her face. "What's
the matter, Miko-chan?"

"Daddy, are you mad at me?" Misako asked looking hopefully up at him.

Mamoru picked Misako up and walked over to the couch, "And why would I
be mad at you?" He asked while settling her on his knee.

"'Cause, I bad before."

"You mean yesterday?" Mamoru asked, Usagi had told him about the fight.
<I seem to be missing the fights lately. I don't know why though.>
Misako nodded in response to his question, "Well I'm not mad at you."

Misako smiled a little, "Daddy you not mean, Onee mean." Mamoru simply
waited for Misako to say more, "'Sagi say that I not S'nshi. She say it
fib... but fib bad." Misako might have been too young to know what
confused meant but that's what she felt. <Why Onee fib to me? And Mommy
not get mad at Onee for fibbin'!>

"Chibi-Usa..."

"Who Chibi-'Sa?" Misako asked, "Mommy say Chibi-'Sa-chan all the time
but only Onee and Mommy there."

"But your Onee is named Chibi-Usa."

"Iie," Misako said shaking her head, "Onee is 'Sagi." <Daddy like Mommy.
Why they say that Chibi-'Sa is Onee when they know that Onee is
'Sagi?!?>

<I'll try it another way.> "Well your sister and mother were worried
about you, Miko-chan. Maybe when you get older you can be a Senshi."

"But I S'nshi now!!!" Misako yelled, "I Chibi-Earth! You think I not
fib, ne Daddy?" Her odangos drooped while her blue eyes misted over, a
small tremble on her lip.

"I believe you," Mamoru said after only a short pause, "But you have to
listen to Mommy and Kimeko... It's dangerous."

"Daddy?"

"Hai?"

"Why Mommy spank me? She not spank me before? Only Onee!" This question
had been bugging her for the past little bit. <I not know. Mommy always
put me in corner.>

Mamoru opened his mouth to say something but nothing came out, <Well how
can I answer this question???> Thinking quickly he decided to try a
diversionary tactic, "What if I read you a story?" The look he got from
Misako said she wasn't falling for it. "Well what if I read you a story
and then we go out for ice cream, just you and me?"

"Really?!?" Misako asked her eyes growing wide, "You and Me?"

"Hai!" Mamoru agreed, "Just you and me."

"HAI!" Misako agreed cheerfully. She wasn't stupid. She had just been
offered something she could annoy her sister with. "I love you, Daddy!"
she declared with glee. <Daddy nice!>

                                  ******

Sakuya entered the apartment and looked around, <Obaa-san...> she
thought sadly. Makoto was gone, nowhere to be found. <I guess she didn't
want to say good-bye. Gomen for hurting you, Obaa-san.> Sighing once she
jotted a quick note and collected her things. Walking to the center of
the room with what little possessions she had, Sakuya gathered her
nerve.

"Crystal K-Key," Sakuya began but she had to stop. <I'm shaking like a
leaf!> Taking several deep breaths Sakuya began again and after a few
moments disappeared into the timestream. The trip to Crystal Tokyo was
uneventful. <I wonder where Pluto was?> Sakuya thought. She had passed
through the Time Gate but its guardian either had not been there or did
not make herself known. She could not help but gulp at the reception
committee that she received when she appeared in the one of the outer
courtyards of the Crystal Palace. Standing there was the Elder Venus
along with twenty or so guards. Overlooking the courtyard Sakuya saw
Sailor Uranus standing there smirking. The Outer Senshi made several
hand gestures that were unmistakable, roughly it meant, "I'm going to
beat you to a pulp and enjoy it!"

"Commander," Sakuya addressed Elder Venus formally and bowed.

"Younger Jupiter, Rakurai Sakuya, as Their Royal Majesties King
Endymion's and Neo-Queen Serenity's lawful representative and Commander
of the Sailor Senshi, it is my duty to place you under arrest." <Gomen,
Sako.>

"I understand completely," Sakuya responded. <I do, Minako, don't
worry.>



Chapter 22 - Pain

At about the same time that Misako was getting a piggyback ride from
Sakuya, Kimeko arrived home to find Chibi-Usa waiting for her. After her
lunch with Sakuya, Kimeko had taken a long walk to try and get some
control of her fluctuating emotions.

"Hi Kimeko-chan," Chibi-Usa said, "Would you mind if I talked to you for
a minute? It's really important."

"Sure, Small Lady, come on in," Kimeko replied and guided her into the
house. Minako's parents were out and Minako didn't seem to be home yet.
"Well this will give us some time to ourselves."

No sooner had Chibi-Usa put on the guest slippers then she questioned,
"Kimeko-chan, what's going on with Sakuya?" Kimeko fidgeted and looked
away, "I know there has to be something going on. Sakuya was not
`NORMAL' when I went to see her yesterday." <You know why.>

Kimeko walked over to the kitchen table and sat down, "What did Sakuya
tell you yesterday?"

"Well..." Chibi-Usa began then trailed off. After a brief pause
Chibi-Usa said, "I wanted to talk to her and we got talking and she
finally told me about Puu... I don't understand most of it though."

"I wish I could help, Small Lady, but I don't know anything about the
fight Sakuya has with Sailor Pluto; we never discussed it." <I remember
the last time I brought it up...>

"Oh," Chibi-Usa answered. She stared at the table for a few moments
drawing a figure eight with her finger. "She was really strange;
something was bothering her. I thought maybe it was Puu but she and Puu
have never gotten along."

"Chibi-Usa, Princess..." Kimeko said, "I have to tell you something."
Chibi-Usa looked at Kimeko nervously, "I'm afraid it's not very good
news."

                                  ******

It had been about five minutes after Chibi-Usa left to go talk to Kimeko
when Usagi heard the knock at the door. Dashing down the stairs Usagi
could see that it was Makoto through the window. Walking over to the
door she opened it and greeted, "Mako-chan? This is a surprise."

"Nice to see you too..." Makoto said, "May I come in, Usagi-chan?"

"Oh, oops!" Usagi said and stepped out of the way to let Makoto in. The
tall girl entered carrying three very large bags. "Hmmm... That smells
good!" Usagi declared as scents of delicious food assaulted her
nostrils.

"I know that you just had lunch but I got into a mood and cooked all
this food. I don't want it to go to waste so..."

"That's okay!" Usagi interrupted, "I haven't had any lunch yet."

"You?!?" Makoto said with some surprise, "Usagi are you sick?!?"

"Mako-chan," Usagi whined, "I'm not that bad!" Makoto grinned, "It's
just Misako ate mine." Usagi started to peek into the bags, "Whoa you
really out did yourself." It wasn't long before Usagi had unpacked the
bags and was admiring the contents of several containers. "Can I have
some? Please?" she asked hopefully, her stomach agreeing completely with
the question as it rumbled.

"Hai, that's why I brought it over," Makoto replied. Within five minutes
Usagi had a heaping plate and was headed for her room. "This may seem
like a silly question... but if we're all alone why are we going to your
room with the food?"

"I want to relax, and I can't relax downstairs," Usagi said. She pushed
the door open with her foot and called out, "Luna! Got something for
you!"

The black cat made her appearance at the window and greeted, "Konnichiwa
Mako-chan, I didn't see you come in." She hopped off the windowsill and
made her way over to where Usagi had sat down on the floor beside her
bed. "What was that you were saying about having something for me,
Usagi?"

"Here you go," Usagi said placing a plate of food in front of Luna,
"Mako-chan brought it over... Arigato, Mako-chan, this looks good."
Makoto smiled at her friend.

"How's life for a mother of two?" Makoto asked.

"Rough," Usagi said, "Sometimes I think that Neo-Queen Serenity sent
them back to prepare her for what's coming." Both Luna and Makoto
blinked at the statement, "Nani?"

"You don't suppose..." Makoto started.

"Naah," Usagi remarked, "I just feel like that. If they aren't the best
of friends, they're making each other miserable." Usagi stuffed a morsel
into her mouth and chewed thoughtfully, "You know," she said as she
chomped, "what really is nagging me is why didn't we see Misako when we
went to the future? I mean she should of been around somewhere."

"Okay, I'm getting out of here," Luna said.

"Why?!?" Usagi demanded, "You're acting like Chibi-Usa did. I'm not
going nuts. Misako is MY daughter." Usagi gave a sigh of exasperation,
"Is it so unnatural for me to worry about them?" Luna looked sheepish
and turned back to her own plate.

"Iie, I don't think so," Makoto agreed, "I worry about Sakuya."

"I think you have it harder than I do," Usagi said. Makoto shot her a
questioning look, "I mean Sakuya's your granddaughter. You have no idea
who your daughter is."

Makoto was quiet for several moments before saying, "I actually think I
have it easier." It was Usagi's turn to look surprised, "Sakuya is
enough. She's family and that's all that really matters to me."

"Hai you're lucky," Usagi agreed, "You two don't have fights. This past
little while Chibi-Usa and I have really been going at it. It's kinda
scary." There was a long pause. Usagi who had been enjoying the food
became aware that Makoto hadn't responded to her. "Mako-chan?" There
wasn't any response her friend was simply staring at the floor.

<Sako-chan...> Makoto thought sadly, <Why did you have to go? What
trouble are you in that I can't help you with? Was it me who chased you
away?> She gave an unconscious sigh, <Damn it! She can be so irritating
yet I miss her.> It was these emotions that had become center stage in
Makoto's mind.

"Mako-chan, is something wrong?"

After hearing her friend Makoto pushed her thoughts aside, <Can't spoil
this for Usagi... At least not until I can't take this anymore, that
is.> "Iie Usagi-chan," Makoto said after a lengthy pause, "Just thinking
is all." Makoto raised her head and looked at Usagi, "I wouldn't worry
about Chibi-Usa. I mean you two have always had a rocky time of it. Just
think Usagi, you know what to expect. Two very caring daughters. Misako
is a sweetheart. She's quiet and..."

"Hai, I've been trying to figure out how she managed to avoid being
turned into Chibi-Usa's servant."

"Now Usagi-chan!" Makoto scolded, "Just because Chibi-Usa's bullheaded
and demanding, doesn't mean that Misako is powerless." Makoto grinned
slyly at her friend's confused expression, "Misako has the power to make
Chibi-Usa's life miserable if she really wanted to."

"How?!?" Usagi demanded, "I know she can be annoying at times but..."

"You, Usagi-chan."

"Me?"

"Hai, you and Mamoru... Think about it. You are their parents, and I bet
that Misako has learned how to wrap you around her little finger so
you'll protect her from Chibi-Usa. Chibi-Usa's a smart kid, she isn't
going to chance annoying you just to irritate Misako." Usagi's
expression showed that she just didn't quite believe Makoto. "Don't
worry, Usagi-chan, it'll be okay..." <But will Sakuya?!?> Makoto heaved
another sigh.

"Mako-chan, WHAT'S the matter?" Usagi asked exasperatedly, "You're
hiding something." She blinked as Makoto started to giggle, "Honestly!"

"Gomen Usagi-chan," Makoto began trying to get her giggling under
control, "It's just... You have family. Chibi-Usa's been here for months
and then Misako came." She could feel a lump in her throat start to
form. Her voice thickened and Makoto felt her eyes growing moist. "I
have great friends but no family... except Sakuya." Makoto lowered her
head again. <And now she's gone!>

"Mako-chan, did you and Sakuya have a fight?" Usagi asked softly sliding
around to sit beside Makoto. After a few seconds Makoto nodded but
didn't lift her head, "Well you were just saying that fights happen,
everybody fights... gets mad."

"I could tell Sakuya things that I've never told anybody before." Makoto
rambled on in a raspy voice, "I could talk about my past, my parents.
She knows, she understands." <I haven't been able to talk to anyone like
that since Mom and Dad...>

<Don't I understand?!?> Usagi thought testily for a moment before
quashing the errant thought. "I don't think Sakuya could stay mad at
you, Mako-chan. Why don't you two just talk and see if you can work it
out."

"But it feels so much like when my parents died!" Makoto shouted lifting
her head and staring with intensity at Usagi. "It feels exactly the
same! I don't want to go through that again!" Tears began to roll down
Makoto's cheeks.

"Hold it, slow down," Usagi said holding up her hand, "Back up there..."
She waited until Makoto had relaxed slightly before saying, "Now do you
want to explain that again? Why would it feel like when your parents
died? Sakuya isn't dead... ne?!?"

Makoto couldn't help herself but smirk, "Iie, she isn't dead." She took
several deep breaths before saying, "My parents took me on a trip when I
was twelve. It was meant to be a holiday. Mom and Dad were looking
forward to spending time with me." Makoto stopped and sniffled. "We had
a fight... a really big one. I said I hated them. I never spoke to them
after that."  Usagi's eyes were wide open and she had a slightly
horrified look on her face, "I never got a chance..." Makoto trailed off
and gave a soft sob, her shoulders shaking.

Usagi wrapped a supporting arm around her friend, <I wish I could say
something to make it better,> Usagi thought. "Mako-chan, I'm sure they
knew, they understood." Makoto sniffled, "From what you have told me
about them, they seemed like nice people who loved you very much."

"They were," Makoto whispered. <I wish they could of known you.>
"Usagi-chan, do you remember that weekend I took off? I said I was going
home?"

"Hai, I never did figure that one out." <Or any of the rest of us
either. Rei even tried the Great Fire...>

"Well," Makoto lifted her head to look at Usagi, "I headed home, back to
where I was born. I wasn't born in Tokyo. I went to their graves... to
see them." Makoto blinked to clear her eyes, "I had to find peace,
faith." A ghost of a smile played across Makoto's lips, "I thought that
feeling of loss would never go away." <I was over it and now I have it
again...>

Usagi started to look confused again, "But... but what does that have to
do with Sakuya?"

"I-I t-threw her out," Makoto whispered, the silence that filled the
room was uncomfortable. "The LAST thing I-I told her was to get out. I
got angry and I sent her away. Now I won't see her again." Her tears
started to flow again, "She was family, Usagi-chan, something I
craved... something I needed." <You're the only one who can understand
what I feel.>

"But Mako-chan, why would you never see Sakuya again?"

Makoto fumbled in her pocket for the letter that Sakuya had told her to
deliver to Chibi-Usa and Usagi. Hesitantly Usagi took the letter and
unfolded the paper. She read it slowly, her mouth drying, stomach
sinking. She looked up to see Makoto looking lost, alone. Setting the
letter down carefully Usagi wrapped her arms around Makoto and hugged
her friend. "It'll be all right, Mako-chan..." she said as she felt
Makoto hug her back. <Poor Mako... What am I going to tell,
Chibi-Usa?!?>

                                  ******

Around five that afternoon Usagi walked into the kitchen, her mind was
on Makoto and the problem she now had. <I wish I could help. Makoto
seems so... lost. I don't know how she can be lost but that's the
impression she gives me.> So absorbed in her thoughts that she didn't
hear her mother's question.

"USAGI!"

"Nani?" Usagi questioned giving a start, "Oh, gomen, Mom. Did you want
something, Mom?"

"Hai," Ikuko said, "I wanted to know if you had seen..."

Ikuko was cut off as the door slammed open and Chibi-Usa stomped into
the house. Kicking off her shoes Chibi-Usa started to stomp through the
kitchen leaving the door open.

"Go close the door, Chibi-Usa," Ikuko requested. Chibi-Usa, not saying a
word, paused before reaching back with her foot and shutting the door
with another bang. Ikuko frowned, "Chibi-Usa-chan, what's the matter?"

"Nothing," Chibi-Usa growled and started stalking towards the stairs.

"Honey, why don't you hurry and wash up. Supper is ready."

"I'm not hungry," Chibi-Usa snapped tersely. Usagi managed to get a good
look at Chibi-Usa's features and saw the storm clouds brewing.

<She's been crying...> Usagi thought, "Chibi-Usa-chan, is this about
Sakuya?" Chibi-Usa didn't respond she just stalked up the steps pounding
them as hard as she could. <Hai, it's about Sakuya.> Usagi caught
Ikuko's questioning look, "Sakuya had to leave in a hurry today to go
home. I think Chibi-Usa's upset because Sakuya never told her that she
had to leave." Usagi glanced up the steps, "Mom, should I go up and talk
to her?"

<She needs some time alone.> "Iie, Usagi, come have some supper. You can
take up a plate to her later. Let her cool off... If she gets hungry,
she can join us." Ikuko commented, "You did that a couple of times
yourself." Usagi paused at her chair and cocked her head in thought. "I
can't remember exactly what it was but you were just about as mad."
Usagi just smiled at her mother. "Miko-chan come on, supper time," Ikuko
called into the living room.

"Hai Obaa-san!" came Misako's voice. Usagi giggled as she caught the
grimace that Ikuko gave. Misako soon came out of the living room carried
by Shingo who was chuckling at something, "Onii-chan, you funny!"

"So are you, Peanut," Shingo said. He caught the wink that Usagi sent
his way, <I don't get it... Usagi hasn't even teased me about hanging
around with Misako. I'm not complaining but still...>

                                  ******

Misako came bouncing into the room after supper and stopped dead. <Onee
has MY bear!> Stomping over to the bed she stood glaring at her sister.
Chibi-Usa was laying on the bed clutching Chibi-Shingo tightly to her
chest. "My bear! Give me Chibi-Shingo!" Misako demanded while reaching
for the toy.

"It's mine," Chibi-Usa said softly, "You gave it to me."

"Nuh-uh, you gave it to me," Misako stated defiantly, "It MY bear. You
give it back, 'Sagi, or I tell Mommy!" Chibi-Usa just grunted and rolled
over to her back. <Fine!> Taking on a dejected look Misako sniffled and
started a low whine, "Mommy! 'Sagi took MY bear!" Chibi-Usa didn't do
anything. Starting for the door Misako increased the volume of her voice
and repeated her whine.

"Fine, take the bear!" Chibi-Usa shouted and flung the toy at Misako who
caught it and then blowing a raspberry at her sister slipped out of the
room. <Baka fungus!> Chibi-Usa thought, <If Sakuya was here...>

Usagi saw Misako coming down the stairs holding Chibi-Shingo and
grinning smugly. <What's she doing with Chibi-Usa's teddy bear?> She
gave a shrug. With the mood that Chibi-Usa was in she figured that it
was a minor worry. As Misako passed her, Usagi headed up to Chibi-Usa's
room.

After reaching her daughter's room Usagi knocked on her door.
"Chibi-Usa-chan, I brought you something to eat." Usagi waited but there
was no response. "Chibi-Usa-chan?" Usagi knocked again, this time she
could pick out a mumbled response. Opening the door she stepped into the
darkened room. The light from outside caused the room to take on a
subdued purple look that mixed with the dim light of the nightlight.
Chibi-Usa was laying on her back staring at the ceiling. "Honey, I
brought some food."

Chibi-Usa rolled over to her side to face the wall, "I'm not hungry."
<Sakuya, why did you leave without saying good-bye?> Chibi-Usa's
emotions were tumbled together. <She's in trouble because of me... I
always seem to hurt her. It's always because of me and, this time, I
hurt Makoto too.>

Hearing a sniffle Usagi carefully set the tray on Chibi-Usa's desk
before walking over to the bed. Sitting down she said, "Imouto... Makoto
brought a letter over for us. Why don't you read it? Maybe it'll tell
you why Sakuya left without saying good-bye." Chibi-Usa didn't move.
Sighing slightly Usagi pulled the letter out of her pocket. "I read it
before, please Imouto?"

Chibi-Usa rolled over to look at Usagi before reaching for the letter.
Unfolding it she started to read. Her breathing started to increase and
after a few moments she sniffled. Usagi reached down and lifted
Chibi-Usa into a hug, "It must have been important, Imouto," Usagi said
soothingly to the little girl, "Sakuya would not hurt you on purpose.
The letter talks about having a duty to perform... Can you tell me about
this reason she mentions?"

Chibi-Usa shook her head, <She left because of me... She left the future
to save me, because I was careless. She left the past and I'm the reason
too.> She hugged Usagi tightly, "Iie, Onee-san, I can't. I'll miss
Sakuya," she sniffled softly. <Please hold me, Mommy.>

"I'm sure it will work out, Imouto. When you go home you'll see Sakuya
again and maybe she can explain why she had to leave." Usagi patted
Chibi-Usa's back, "Come on, could you try and eat a little?" Chibi-Usa
nodded, "Want me to go?"

Chibi-Usa shook her head, "Arigato, Onee-san." <With you around, Mommy,
I don't feel so alone. I love you.> Usagi sat Chibi-Usa on the bed and
retrieved the tray. Chibi-Usa ate slowly but it became obvious that she
wasn't in the mood to eat. <I was careless twice. Both times Sakuya got
hurt!> Chibi-Usa thought as she played with some of her food. After a
few moments she pushed her tray away.

"I can save it for you, Imouto," Usagi offered but Chibi-Usa just shook
her head. Stifling a sigh Usagi said, "Would you like to do anything?"
Again the only response she got was a shake of the head. "All right,
Imouto, if you want anything just come and tell me, ne?"

"Hai," Chibi-Usa mumbled out her voice thick with emotion. Usagi reached
over and gave her a quick hug before gathering up the tray and leaving
the room. As soon as the door was shut Chibi-Usa rolled onto her stomach
and buried her head in her pillow. <All my fault!> she thought bitterly
as the tears started to form and flow out of her tightly shut eyes.
<When I couldn't free Mommy from the crystal, I ran away and got caught.
I tried to kill you!> A shuddering sob shook her body, <Now you come
back to save me because I did a baka thing!> She lay like that crying
for several minutes before all her tears were gone. She was left with a
cold hollow feeling, <Please come back Sakuya, please...> Giving a
couple more sniffles and then a ragged sigh Chibi-Usa finally fell into
a restless sleep. The hurt feeling was replaced with one of anger
towards herself for driving her guardian and friend away. Her sleep
didn't last long as the realization of what might actually happen to
Sakuya sunk in.

"Iie..." Chibi-Usa breathed out in a pain filled whisper.



Chapter 23 - A Mother and her Daughters

Chibi-Usa's eyes popped open. The room was dark except for the
nightlight. She could hear Misako breathing contentedly beside her.
<What woke me up?> She struggled to think through her sleep clouded
brain. <Misako looks just about as miserable as I feel.> She had stayed
in her room sliding in and out of restless sleep. Chibi-Usa had been
found asleep by Usagi when she had put Misako to bed. <Mommy must have
put my pajamas on.>

Misako was snuggled up to Chibi-Usa although she was still unhappy with
her sister. <Is the window open?> Chibi-Usa thought as a chill ran up
her, then she became aware of the dampness. <Iie!!!> Chibi-Usa thought
in despair, <I'm eight now! How could I wet the bed?!?> She felt herself
flush in embarrassment. <Just like last time. At least Usagi isn't here
to see it.>

As she struggled to come more fully awake she became aware of an oddity.
Reaching down she noticed that the wet spot wasn't where it should have
been. Instead it was on the outside part of the left leg of her pajamas.
Chibi-Usa's brow furrowed as she tried to figure out the contradiction.
<If I wet the bed, why aren't I wet...> Her thoughts trailed off as a
realization struck her, <Misako!>

Reaching over to the nightstand, Chibi-Usa switched on the light before
pushing the covers back. Sure enough she could see the dark spot on
Misako's pajama bottoms. A sense of relief spread through Chibi-Usa,
<I'm glad it's not me... I guess I should wake Misako up.> Reaching over
Chibi-Usa gave Misako a push. Her sister mumbled something before trying
to snuggle closer, having the covers pulled back was causing the cool
night air to be let in.

"Miko-chan, wake up," Chibi-Usa called softly while giving her sister
another push.

Misako's eyes slowly slid open, "Nani?" she asked in a sleepy voice.
She blinked a couple of times before making a face of dislike, "Time to
get up? It still dark." <Onee wake me to be mean.>

"Iie, Miko-chan, you had an accident," Chibi-Usa said gently.

Misako now became aware of what had happened, her reaction was not what
Chibi-Usa had expected. Misako sniffled. Climbing out of bed slowly
Misako clutched Chibi-Shingo while looking very ashamed of herself. "We
tell Mommy?" she asked in a small voice.

"Hai," Chibi-Usa said sliding out of bed, "Come on we have to get you
washed up." Taking Misako's hand she led her sister out of the room and
down the hall towards the bathroom, "You wait here for a second. I'll go
get Onee-san," Chibi-Usa instructed her sister. Leaving the bathroom
Chibi-Usa softly walked to Usagi's room, knocked, and entered it.

<Onee-san? Onee mean Mommy... Mommy going to be mad...> Misako thought
sadly. She gave another sniffle, <I not want Mommy to know. I not big
like Onee-chan. I small, always be little!> A spike of anger shot out
and Misako threw Chibi-Shingo. <I never be S'nshi like Onee!>

                                  ******

It wasn't long before both girls were back in bed having had both their
bed sheets and pajamas changed. Usagi kissed each on the forehead and
then retreated back to her room to try and go back to sleep. Chibi-Usa
lay silently thinking about how Misako had reacted. Misako had been
really down since Chibi-Usa had burst her bubble.

<Misako's been giving me the silent treatment... Usagi's had her
problems with her too. I feel really bad for hurting her feelings. If
I'd been younger...> An idea occurred to Chibi-Usa. "Miko-chan?" Misako
didn't respond. She just hugged Chibi-Shingo. "Miko-chan... do you think
Mommy's mad at you?"

"Hai," came the soft reply after a long silence, "I thought Mommy be mad
but she not do nothin'." Misako was one part relieved and another part
worried.

Chibi-Usa rolled to her side so she could look at Misako. Her little
sister's face seemed dejected and shadowed with sadness in the soft glow
of the nightlight. "Miko-chan, Mommy isn't mad at you. She said it was
an accident. She didn't scold you and she wanted to know if you wanted
to sleep in her bed," Chibi-Usa smiled, "She wouldn't have done that if
she was mad at you."

"I not wet bed before," Misako said dejectedly, "I little, never be
big." Hugging her teddy bear so tight that, if Chibi-Shingo was alive,
she would of suffocated him, she rolled over. "I never be S'nshi,"
Misako mumbled out. <Onee right. I no S'nshi.>

Chibi-Usa made a decision, <I have to cheer her up. Wetting the bed
isn't a big deal. Onee-san isn't mad at her, neither am I. Maybe I can
make up a little for being so mean to her.> Chibi-Usa winced, <I've been
really lucky about that. If I had been at home, I KNOW Mommy would be
really mad. That and I miss Chibi-Shingo!!! Who'd ever think I could
actually miss something named Shingo?!?> "Miko-chan, do you know
something?"

"Nani?" Misako yawned sleepily.

"I-I wet the bed too," Chibi-Usa said. She felt herself flushing
subconsciously, "I did it when I was here before." <And Usagi wasn't
near as calm about it.>

"Really?" Misako asked turning so she could look at Chibi-Usa once
again. <Onee wet bed?!?>

"Hai," Chibi-Usa admitted, "I was sleeping in Mommy's bed when I had an
accident. Mommy knows that it's an accident and she isn't mad at you.
She even let me stay with her the next night." Chibi-Usa reach around
and gave Misako a hug, "Miko-chan, you'll grow up. You won't be little
for very long." <Strange, I remember Mommy telling me the same thing.>

"You not mad that I wake you up?" Misako asked softly.

"Iie," Chibi-Usa said softly settling down to sleep, "I promise,
Miko-chan, I'm not mad at you." Before closing her eyes Chibi-Usa added,
"I want you to promise me that you won't tell anybody else that I've wet
the bed." <I'd be so embarrassed if the other girls found out. I'd have
to crawl under a rock and hide if Mamoru ever found out!>

Misako, feeling just the littlest bit better, snuggled up to Chibi-Usa
and closing her eyes said, "I promise, Onee-chan. It secret. I not tell
anybody." She felt Chibi-Usa hug her. <Onee-chan nice not to be mad.
She still mean 'cause she say I not S'nshi.> But at that moment it
didn't matter as she slipped into sleep, and had a unique visitor.

Something kept Chibi-Usa from sleeping though, <Usagi's different from
Mommy. I actually like it too!> It was a very strange sensation, <I know
that Usagi and Mommy are the same but I feel like they're different.>
This was very confusing for Chibi-Usa, after some more thought Chibi-Usa
sighed. <I wish I could talk to Sakuya... Maybe Kimeko can help me.> She
reached over and tried to gently tug Chibi-Shingo from her sister's arms
but failed. Giving a sigh Chibi-Usa started to slide into a restful
sleep.

                                  ******

Chibi-Usa came up the stairs after lunch to find Usagi. <Onee-san was
doing something up in the attic.> Usagi had disappeared soon after
breakfast and had been avoiding Chibi-Usa for most of the morning. She
even specifically told Chibi-Usa not to go into her room. <Before I
might have but Onee-san must have a good reason.> Coming to Usagi's door
she knocked and hoped that Usagi would let her in.

"Just a minute, I'll be right there!" came Usagi's voice. There were
some muffled noises and then a loud crash.

Chibi-Usa burst into the room with a worried expression on her face,
"Are you okay, Onee-san?!" Usagi was half sprawled on the bed, half on
the floor her feet tangled in the bed sheets.

"Hai, gomen, Chibi-Usa-chan. I wanted to surprise you," Usagi said.

"Nani?!?" Chibi-Usa questioned, <Why would Usagi be standing on her...>
She trailed off as she saw something hanging above Usagi's bed. "You...
You hung it up?!?" Chibi-Usa said in surprise. Looking down from Usagi's
wall was the portrait of Chibi-Usa that Usagi had asked Yumeno Yumemi to
paint when Chibi-Usa was in the past before. The little girl felt a lump
form in her throat and her eyes moisten.

Usagi disentangled herself and walked over to her daughter. Kneeling
down Usagi reached out and gave Chibi-Usa a quick hug. "After you left I
put the painting in the attic..."

"Oh," Chibi-Usa said lowering her head. <I thought she'd be proud of
that painting. Was I that bad when I was first here in the past?> She
felt Usagi push her chin up.

Usagi stared into Chibi-Usa's eyes. <She doesn't understand.> "Don't you
dare think I did this because I was ashamed of you!" Chibi-Usa flushed,
"Honey... Imouto, I put it in the attic to protect it. You know how
clumsy I am." Usagi gave a smirk. She could see a smile tugging at the
corners of Chibi-Usa's mouth. "I wanted to protect it and Luna-P's
effect was starting to wear off... I couldn't tell Mom that the kawaii
little girl in the picture was a daughter that I'm very proud of."
Chibi-Usa blushed furiously, "Even if she can TORMENT her sister and her
mother at times." Chibi-Usa took on a sheepish look.

"Onee-san," Chibi-Usa said while scuffing her foot across the carpet, "I
wanted to take Misako to the park. Ikuko-mama won't let me take her." An
indignant tone made its way into Chibi-Usa's voice, "I can look after
Misako." <Doesn't Ikuko-mama trust me?!? I'm eight now.>

"I think Mom knows that you wouldn't let anything happen to Misako."
Usagi reassured while getting up and guiding Chibi-Usa over to the bed,
"It's just that Misako's been giving you the silent treatment." She
lifted the little girl onto her lap, "We just can't take the chance that
Misako won't listen to you."

"I guess," Chibi-Usa mumbled. "But I really wanted to apologize to
Misako for teasing her."

"What if we go to the park together? Your sister isn't very happy with
me either." Chibi-Usa nodded vigorously while giving Usagi a hug.
Setting her down Usagi got up and led the way downstairs, "Miko-chan,
want to go to the park?"

"Is Onee coming?" Misako asked walking away from the counter, where she
had been standing beside Ikuko, and over to her mother.

"Hai," Usagi chirped.

"Then I not go. Me stay with Obaa-san."

"Misako," Usagi suggested, "We could go see Mamoru afterwards."

"I see Daddy before. Not want to go if Onee-chan go 'cause she mean,"
Misako grumbled while crossing her arms and taking on a defiant stance.

<Okay...> Bending down Usagi ordered, "Miko-chan, go get your shoes on.
You're going to come to the park with us." Misako shook her head
defiantly and turned around to head back towards Ikuko. <All right! This
has gone on long enough!> Usagi reached out and snagged her daughter's
arm.  "Misako, please get your shoes on."

"Iie!" Misako whined, "Not go park with baka odango atama Onee!"

"And where do you suppose she learned that?!?" Usagi questioned staring
intently at Chibi-Usa who had the common sense to look guilty. "Misako,
I'll only ask you once more. Please get your shoes on. We're going to
the park."

"FINE!" Misako shouted. Jerking her arm free, she stomped over to put
her shoes on. <Mommy mean. I not want be with Onee.>

"Usagi," Ikuko said walking up to her daughter. She was about to say
more when she noted that Chibi-Usa was watching her avidly,
"Chibi-Usa-chan, why don't you go help your sister and get ready
yourself."

"Aww nuts!" Chibi-Usa grumbled but went to do as she was told. <I wanted
to hear what they were going to talk about!>

"Usagi," Ikuko started again in a quieter voice, "I want you to end
Misako calling you `Mommy'." Usagi gave her mother a questioning look,
"It was kawaii before but she called me `Obaa-san' in front of some of
my friends." <It was embarrassing. They wouldn't let me hear the end of
it.> Ikuko couldn't keep the slightly irritated tone out of her voice,
"It's also causing your father some grief. He really likes Mamoru but
when Misako calls you `Mommy' and him `Daddy', it just shows your father
how much you're growing up."

"Hai Mom, I'll try. Misako seems determined though."

                                  ******

Usagi had to literally carry Misako to the park. <She kept dragging her
feet!> she thought, <She can be just as stubborn as her sister! I wonder
where they get it?> Usagi gently but firmly sat Misako on a bench. Her
youngest daughter was pouting, arms crossed with a deep scowl marring
her young face. "Come on, Miko-chan, we'll have lots of fun. It's a
really nice day and the birds..."

"Hate birds!" Misako interrupted, "They go bathroom on you." Usagi made
a disgusted face, "Not want to play with Onee 'cause she say I not
S'nshi! I go home." Misako hopped off the bench and started to walk
away.

Usagi frowned and picking Misako up again put her back on the bench. In
an authoritative tone Usagi said, "If you don't want to go and play with
Chibi-Usa, then you have to stay here on the bench." Usagi then sat down
on the bench. Misako now sulking slid down to the end of the bench and
turned her head away from Usagi. <I must be getting more patience. If
Chibi-Usa had done that...> That thought gave Usagi something new to
think about.

After awhile Chibi-Usa had some company in playing. Usagi had joined her
oldest daughter on the swings. <Baka Mommy! She like Onee better than
me!> Misako thought. She glanced over at her mother and sister as
Chibi-Usa gave a squeal of delight when Usagi pushed her high on the
swing. <That look fun...> Misako thought then she stopped herself from
getting up. <Not fun, Onee there.> She hugged Chibi-Shingo to her. She
had brought it along for company because at least Chibi-Shingo was nice
to her. But as time passed Misako found herself having a hard time
staying mad at her mother and sister. Eventually Misako went running
over to Chibi-Usa and Usagi. When they were going to go down the slide,
Misako asked with hope in her young eyes, "I go too?"

"I thought you were mad at us, Miko-chan," Chibi-Usa jested.

"Please, can I play with you?" Misako begged, "I not mad now!" She
looked hopefully at Usagi and Chibi-Usa. "I not think you mean, Mommy."

"And what about me?" Chibi-Usa asked.

Misako considered this for a moment before holding Chibi-Shingo out to
her sister. "I not need Chibi-Shingo now. Arigato, Onee-chan."

Chibi-Usa grinned broadly, "Arigato, Imouto." She reached out and gently
took Chibi-Shingo, "I missed him." She admitted when she caught Usagi's
curious look. <I guess Misako's really forgiven me. I'm glad we can be
friends. I like playing with Misako.> Chibi-Usa gave Usagi a nod and
smiled at Misako again, "Come on, now we can play like before just don't
try to eat any worms!"

Usagi mouthed the word, "worms?!?" but only shuddered at the thought of
eating such a disgusting thing. "Hai! Come on, Miko-chan, you can go
down the slide first," Usagi said trying desperately to clear her mind
of the picture of eating worms.

                                  ******

As the afternoon progressed the girls acquired an unseen observer.
Mamoru who had been going through the park spotted the girls. He was
about to go up to them but stopped. Mamoru realized that this was just a
day for the three of them so he contented himself with watching them
play. A smile graced his lips each time one of the girls did something
funny or kawaii. A sense of pride rose within him, <My family...> Mamoru
thought. He left covertly not wanting the girls to know he had been
there. <MY family!>

The two little girls finally got exhausted after they chased their
mother around. Giving a mighty leap both girls tackled their mother and
all three fell to the ground giggling. They stayed like that for a
moment before Usagi struggled to a sitting position. "Boy that was fun,"
she said hugging her young daughters. <I felt like a kid for awhile.  I
almost forgot what it was like...>

"Hai," Chibi-Usa chirped. "Arigato, Mommy." <I wish Mommy would play
like that with us. I think she would have fun. She's always busy being
Queen. Onee-san's a lot more fun.> She smiled shyly as Usagi smiled
radiantly at her, "I really had a lot of fun. I'm glad you came and
played with us, Miko-chan." <I hope you won't be mad at me anymore,
Imouto.>

"I had fun too," Misako agreed, "Mommy, can we get ice cream now?"

"Iie honey," Usagi said. Misako's features sank a little, "It's almost
supper time. We don't want to spoil our appetites, ne?"

"Hai," Misako agreed, "After?"

"Maybe," Usagi answered. Getting up she walked with both girls over to a
nearby bench and sat down. <Might as well try.> Lifting Misako onto her
lap she said, "Miko-chan, we have to talk."

"I in trouble?" Misako asked. <I hope not. I had lots of fun.>

"Iie, you were very good today." Misako smiled, "Miko-chan, I want you
to call me `Usagi'."

"But that Onee's name. Mommy, why you want me to call you U-U-Sagi? I
not allowed."

Usagi had been thinking about this, <Have to make it logical for her.>
"Misako, does Mommy have a moon on her forehead?" Usagi asked pointing
to the location where her sigil would appear. Misako nodded, "Well if
Mommy DOESN'T have a moon, you can call her `Usagi' and not get into
trouble."

Misako tapped her lower lip for a moment before saying, "But why I call
you 'Sagi if that Onee's name?" A hint of confusion was plain on her
face.

"Well when Mommy DOESN'T have a moon on her forehead, then her name is
Usagi NOT Mommy." Misako opened her mouth but Usagi held up a finger.
Misako closed her mouth and looked at her mother. "And when Mommy
doesn't have a moon, then you can call your onee-chan, Chibi-Usa...
Okay?" Misako looked unconvinced, "Please Misako?" Usagi looked to her
with pleading eyes.

<'Sagi? Chibi-'Sa?> Misako hesitated, then conceded, "Hai." <I try but I
not understand.>

"Now we just have to tell you a couple more things," Usagi continued
getting up and starting to head towards Mamoru's place. "Like calling my
mom `Obaa-san'..." Misako sighed and rested her head on Usagi's
shoulder. Misako was wondering if coming back into the past was such a
neat idea after all. Things were certainly strange here.

"Ahh... Onee-san?" Chibi-Usa asked, "Shouldn't we be going home?"

"Iie," Usagi said with a smirk, "I have a surprise."

"Nani!?!" both girls instantly demanded, "What is it!?!"