Hello everyone!! This the last chapter of Kunzite and Mina!! Now I can move on to Rei and Jadeite!!! Finally!!! I don't own Sailor Moon. Right now the chapters might be slower because I'm studying abroad in France and I have to get used to everything, which is hard (because my French is awful.) Its 59 pages, so enjoy it and try not to read it too quickly, because who knows when the next one will be out. (Sorry guys!!)

He was sprawled out on the couch, an arm on his forehead, a leg dangling on the floor. This was his thinking position. The night was not yet over and he was already going to scream from the chaos that had ensued in a span of two hours. Okay, he thought despairingly. The only way to solve your problems is to list them and then tackle them that way. It was the rule of war. Divide and conquer. Stress was not a huge mass of tension; it was divided into little tiny problems.

The Cat a.k.a Artemis- The cat, which had used up all of his shampoo, was currently sitting across from him wearing Kunzite's nicest suit and eating a late supper of salmon and rice. The clinking sound of the chopsticks on the plate drew his attention and he looked over at Artemis, who was wiping his mouth with a napkin and chewing.

'You want some?' he asked him asked as he swallowed his food. He was only offering out of courtesy because he had felt Kunzite's eyes on him. Kunzite, being slightly intuitive by nature, sensed this. If he had actually accepted the cat's offer he would have been glared at and wished to death a thousand times. Artemis was still an animal and you didn't separate an animal from its late dinner of orange teriyaki glazed salmon, no matter how good it smelled. Even if Kino-san cooked it. Especially if Kino-san cooked it.

'No thanks' he said as the washing machine stopped and beeped. Kunzite got up from the couch, walked to the laundry room, and opened the washing machine. Somehow the cat's odd clothing had gotten taco meat and Dawn on it as well; so the damn thing had to borrow his stuff, which didn't fit right anyway. Because he was so thin and oddly lanky, the suit's sleeves and pant legs were too short and he didn't fill out the suit; so it hung on him like a scarecrow's clothing. It looked like he had stolen the suit, which he had essentially.

He pulled out the cat's clothes and cursed fluidly and softly so that the cat wouldn't hear him. That was it. He was never going to see his suit again. He had let Minako take care of laundering the cat's clothes, since a man didn't wash another man's stuff. It was weird. A guy could dry another guy's stuff, but not wash. It required touching dirty clothing…which was another issue altogether. She had, in a fit of so-called brilliance, decided to wash her whites along with the cat's clothing. Unfortunately, she had been in a rush to go off to jail, had mixed something dark and red with the clothing, and accidentally hit the hot water button. He gingerly lifted the outfit out of the machine and took a deep breath. He was starting to realize that when upset, Artemis tended to be long-winded and colorful. He had to approach this with caution.

'Hey cat!'

'What?'

'What's your favorite color?'

'Blue.'

Silence.

'Close enough' he muttered under his breath, stuffing the pink outfit into the dryer. He was too exhausted and drained to do anything creative and he had to save all his strength and energy for the confrontation ahead. He walked back to the couch and plopped on it in his thinking position, as he waited for his impeding doom to knock on the door.

Minako- He thought back on what had happened after the cat had walked out of the shower, ranting and raving.

'You owe me some shampoo' he continued placidly, leaning against the doorframe as he folded his muscular arms. The shower was still going. She could feel his light eyes studying her intently and she slowly turned pink. She couldn't look at him, and so she stared down at the bed sheets instead. Kami, she was going to die of embarrassment. Was it normal to feel as if your heart would burst out of your chest? The phone rang once and she was on it, as she leaped for the phone, desperate for anything. Any sort of rescue from this situation. Thank you! Thank you! She thought to the unknown power that looked over her. She'd visit the Sendai Hill temple later, when she got the chance. She settled herself in the chair in front of the vanity, strategically turning her back towards him, before she answered the call.

'Hello?' she said breathlessly.

'Aino-san! We strike tonight!' said a distinctly male voice.

'Huh?'

'This is Alderton-san. Pack some things! You're going to jail!'

'What!! Nooo!!!!'

'Yes! I'll meet you at Kunzite-san's house in ten. I'll explain everything on the way there.'

Click.

Dial tone.

She sat frozen to the spot, the receiver still in her hand. The dial tone echoed in the room and Kunzite had to walk over and take the phone out of her hand. He leaned in close and pressed his lips against her hair as he intertwined his fingers with hers and hung up the phone. She bowed her head for a moment and looked up at her frightened pale reflection in the mirror. His silver eyes peeked out from the crown of her head and he gave her a small kiss on her cheek never breaking eye contact with her.

'Is everything okay?' he asked slightly concerned at the tearful panicked look on her face.

'I'm going to jail!!!' she said weakly, as she swallowed to clear her suddenly dry mouth.

'What!'

'I'm going to jail! Alderton-san just called and he said he was taking me to jail! I don't want to go to jail!' she said as she burst into tears. Getting a rap sheet was not on her agenda of things to do in life. Yeah, she had a couple of unpaid speeding tickets, but jail? She was a sailor senshi for crying out loud!

'Don't worry, I'm going to take care of everything' he said picking up her cell phone from the dresser as he walked away. She looked after him confused.

'Hey! That's my cell phone! That's my life! Give it back!' she cried out indignantly and tearfully. She was having a crisis and the man just walks off! He waved off her protests as he walked off.

'You'll get your life back' came his muffled voice from the hallway. The house phone rang again and she frantically picked it up, in order to argue her bastard of a lawyer down. Jail was not going to be an option tonight.

'Hello!' she snapped angrily.

'Hello! Who the hell is this?' said a distinctly female voice.

'Who the hell are you?' asked Minako angrily, not to be outdone. She was very stressed right now, and she was not in the mood to deal with someone with an attitude.

'I'm Tomoyo Amika!'

Silence.

Well except for this particular person. She had a right to have an attitude. If I were in her shoes, I'd have a major attitude right now too, thought Minako sympathetically.

'Oh. Hold on a sec, I'll get him for you' she said backing down. She knew when to pick her battles and she knew when she was in the wrong. The last thing she needed were some domestic violence charges on her record too.

'Kunzite-san!' she called out in a sweet singsong manner; maybe she could get her phone back from him. After a moment, he poked his head in the bedroom, looking at her like she had lost her mind; she was smirking and had her long legs crossed as she dangled the phone in one hand like bait.

'Telephone' she said smiling evilly. Very sexy, he thought, I wonder what changed her mood. He said his goodbyes to the person on her phone, and walked over to her. He leaned down, grasped her chin gently, and kissed her softly once, twice, and took the phone from her. Gleefully, she got up and skipped off to the living room, as she snatched her cell phone from his grasp. He watched her saunter off gaily and said, 'Hello?'

'Shikoku-san, you replace me so easily' said a low quiet voice.

He froze.

The bathroom door opened.

'Stupid Minako! I'm wrinkled as prune! I can still smell it on me! And my clothes are ruined!' he snapped as he lumbered out of the bathroom with the towel around his waist. He looked quite the sight with his tail hanging out and lashing angrily about. Kami, it's like a bad backstage cut scene out of CATS, thought Kunzite as he stared at Artemis. He had white hair on his chest and his hair was wrapped in a turban fashion as he walked to her suitcase and yanked out her hair dryer.

'I'd really rather not see you wet and half naked Artemis, if that's your name.'

'Oh, go to hell! If you had a sympathetic bone in your body, you wouldn't have to see me like this you bastard!'

'Shikoku-san! You should at least have some sort of respect for me, even if you have decided to throw me over for some female!'

'Oh, ah, I'm sorry Tomoyo-san. For everything. I definitely didn't want it to end this way.'

'Is there any way we can talk about this?'

'Tonight? Maybe?' he said hoping she wouldn't take his offer. Chaos was starting to break lose and he had to go to work tomorrow.

'Alright. Give me an hour.'

Shit.

'Okay we can meet in my apartment. I'll see you in a bit.'

Kunzite hung up the phone and sighed. The sound of the blow dryer snapped on in the bathroom. Vain bastard, he thought angrily, Artemis was probably preening in the mirror and fluffing up his fur. The electric bill was going to be insanely ridiculous this month. Kunzite walked to the living room, where Minako was curled up on the couch talking to someone on the phone.

'I know! Jail! I've never been to jail!' she said indignantly as she clutched at the sofa pillow, 'So you're coming to see me off to prison? Okay, see you later.' She blew at her bangs, frustrated at the turn of events. Hanging up the phone, she lay back on the couch and stared up at the ceiling.

'Hey' he said leaning on the couch, over her. Several strands of his hair fell into his face and she tenderly looked up and tucked them behind his ear.

'Thanks for calling Usagi-chan. How did you know that she would get the news out so fast to everyone?'

'I figured, that she seemed the most likely to gossip. Especially, since she informs Mamoru-san of everything so promptly.' Minako laughed at his shrewd observation.

'You got that right. So I guess everyone except Haruka, Hotaru, and Mirichu are coming to see me off.'

Silence.

Okay, he had to tell her.

'I'm meeting with Amika-san tonight to talk about ending our relationship.' Minako froze guiltily; her soul being from Venus originally, she hated to see a relationship end.

'I'm so sorry' she said sadly. Kunzite was surprised; her expression was completely genuine. I guess she's just that type of person, he thought. Most women wouldn't be actually sorry; they'd be jumping up and down inside.

'It's not your fault. It somehow ended between us long before you came into the picture. I don't know, it just seemed like she and I never really meshed. Our parents practically planned everything; it was everything short of an arranged marriage. Thank Kami, that there weren't any contracts signed or else there'd be spilled blood' he said, as he ran his fingers through his hair. He didn't want her to feel guilty or responsible for ending the relationship. If anything, he could pin it on Amika's temper and Hino-san's strong spirit. A knock came at the door and Kunzite went to open it, but not before he passed on some news that would be vital to keeping peace in his apartment.

'By the way, the cat says you have to do his laundry, since you ruined his clothes.' Minako sighed annoyed and he opened the door.

'Great, something else to add to the list of things to do' she said out loud.

'Some lawyer you are' he said disdainfully 'You're supposed to keep your clients out of jail, not put them in jail.' Zoicite walked in loaded down with papers and with Ami in tow.

'Ami-chan! I'm going to jail!'

'I know Mina-chan, I'm sorry it's the only way for the judge to lighten your sentence.'

'Really? Are you sure?'

'Yes.'

'I need a hug. I can't believe I'm a felon!'

'You're not a felon, Mina-chan. You just drive recklessly.'

'I am tonight!'

'Its okay' she said obligingly giving her the hug 'you'll be fine. I'll help you pack.'

'And do laundry?'

'Laundry?'

'Never mind. I'll do it. Ami-chan, I'll do it' said Minako heading towards the bedroom and tugging Ami after her. She was too furious to speak to Alderton-san and she couldn't bring herself to greet him.

'So explain the method to your madness because I'm not getting it Zoicite-san.' Kunzite settled himself onto the couch fully annoyed and tense. Zoicite looked quizzically after Minako's retreating back and turned to answer Kunzite's question.

'Okay, so the judge knows about Aino-san because she's practically infamous in the precinct. Everyone knows about her and her crazy excuses, so he won't be kind. If she goes to jail for just one night and then has the hearing the next day, he might be sympathetic, especially if we get the one we're hoping to get.'

'So the hearing's tomorrow?'

'Yup.'

'I thought judges were impartial to that sort of thing.'

Snort.

'Yeah, right.'

'I guess that answers that.'

Another firm knock on the door sounded throughout the apartment.

'I'll get it' said Kunzite getting up from the couch. There was no point in getting comfortable; it seemed all he did these days was answer doors. Three bodies and a black ball of fur immediately knocked him over and forced themselves into his apartment. They hastily took off their shoes, and ran into the back without a hello or a by your leave. A trailing smell of warm brownies followed them.

'Sure, just come in and invade his apartment; I'm sure he won't mind' chortled Zoicite cheerfully to himself.

'I'm glad you're at least entertained' retorted Kunzite, as he peeled himself off the railing he was shoved into. Rapid footsteps could be heard coming from the bedroom hallway. Usagi dashed into his kitchen, yanked open the fridge, and rapidly heated the contents of his lunch for tomorrow. She ran off towards the back and left it in the microwave. Kunzite stared after her and shut the door, before mounting the steps.

'You know, instinct is telling me that it's going to burn to a crisp, catch fire, and engulf your apartment building in a raging inferno of flame' predicted Zoicite as he opened his briefcase to take out some more papers. Kunzite hastily walked into the kitchen, Zoicite-san was usually right about these things, but it was best not to leave anything to chance.

'She set it at 200.00 minutes. I can't believe it. She's a walking disaster and she doesn't even have a clue, as to how dangerous she is' said Kunzite walking over to check the microwave and staring at the time in disbelief.

'Ah, too many zeros. I've done that before' he observed coolly without looking up from the papers that he was studying intently.

'Zoicite-san. Do me a favor.'

'Depends on what it is.'

'Stay the hell out of my kitchen.'

'Done. So what was it that you saved from a fiery death?'

'Taco meat.'

'What meat?'

'Taco.'

'Tah-koh' he said sounding it out slowly.

'Taco meat.'

'Never heard of it. Make me some.'

'Yes master.'

'Please.'

'Your mother would be proud.'

'Sorry. I tend to be rude and brusque when I get excited and working on a case. Hah! The prosecution won't be ready. My defense is foolproof' he said excitedly pounding the glass coffee table with the stack of papers he pulled from his briefcase. Kunzite winced. The thing had barely survived the battle between Amika-san and Hino-san, and here he was whacking it with a heavy stack of papers.

'What if the prosecution isn't a fool?'

'Shut up, Kunzite-san. You're ruining my moment.'

'I know.'

'Bastard.'

'Indeed.'

A knock came at the door and Kunzite handed him the plate of tacos.

'Kami-sama, I hope it's not Amika-san.'

'Amika-san?'

'I'm supposed to break up officially with her tonight.'

'Are you serious? Tonight? With Aino-san heading to jail?'

'Yeah, I know. It was bad planning on my part. Hello, Mamoru-san. I'm glad it's you' he said as he opened the door.

'Hah! Princeling! Good to see you! Victory shall be ours tomorrow! Come have some taco meat!' Mamoru clasped arms with Kunzite and walked in.

'Isn't it a little too early celebrate?'

'Perhaps. But we need the positive mood. Aino-san is cloistered in her room in low spirits. Something about not wanting to go to jail' sniffed Zoicite, slightly miffed as he explained the situation to Mamoru.

'Makes sense to me.'

'Ah Princeling, but it's all a part of the plan. Here, sit and partake of this wonderful taco meat, that Kunzite-san has oh so graciously prepared for us.'

'That was supposed to be my lunch tomorrow.'

'Ah, Stonewall, it makes the meal that you have prepared for the Princeling and I even more heartwarming and meaningful. Thank Stonewall for the meal, Princeling. Where are your courtly manners?'

'Thank you, Stonewall but I already ate' said Mamoru chuckling, as he watched Zoicite cheerfully bite into one of the tacos.

'You owe me lunch Zoicite-san.'

'Gladly. These are delicious. I'd try to make them but I'd most likely kill myself in process from smoke inhalation. Just ask Mizuno-san' he said munching away as he paged through the documents, 'By the way, where is your lovely roommate? I need her out here so I can explain to her what will be happening'

'She's probably inside, weeping at your lunacy.'

'You'll thank me after the judge lets her off with a mere 300 hours of community service.'

'That remains to be seen Old Fox. By the way, Princeling I suggest you insure everything in your house; Tsukino-san has a penchant for setting microwaves to 200.00 minutes if she's over-excited and in a rush to be somewhere.'

'Did it.'

Zoicite let out a low whistle.

'Now that's true love' he said nodding his head sagely.

'I wonder if Mizuno-san will be willing to deal with the same exact problem' teased Kunzite straight-faced.

Silence.

'Fiend! You leave her out of this! How dare you! I'd run you through if you weren't my best friend!'

'I'm your best friend?'

'No! I never said that!'

'Hah. I heard you. Didn't you Princeling?'

'Quite clearly.'

'Your tacos are crap, Stonewall. And your girlfriend is an insurance company's worst nightmare, Princeling.'

'Your mother' said Mamoru calmly, taking his jacket off.

'You take that back! I went through hell to make those tacos! And you just said that they were delicious!'

'Oh, this should be good' said Mamoru leaning forward with his chin in one hand.

'Don't look at me like that. It won't work. I swore I'd never speak of the taco incident.'

'Oh, that's all right. Minako-san will tell Usagi and she'll tell me.'

'And you'll tell me.'

'Of course, Zoicite-san.'

Zoicite looked at Kunzite triumphantly.

'Damn you both to Dante's lowest ring of hell.'

'Never read it, Stonewall. Now tell us; we're dying to know' retorted Zoicite. Kunzite was saved from embarrassment by a grim-faced Minako, who marched into the living room, dragging her luggage behind her.

'Alright. I'm ready' she announced with her hand on her hip.

'Aino-san, you are going to jail' said Zoicite gravely inspecting her.

'I know that.'

'Then why do you have a suit case?'

'I have to be prepared for anything! I need these things to survive!'

'The police will confiscate your luggage. You'll be going to jail, Aino-san, not a hotel.'

She threw her hands up in the air, in surrender.

'Well I've never been to jail before! So what should I take?'

'Yourself and a toothbrush.'

'I told you that! But you wouldn't listen!' exploded Rei as she walked in behind her.

'I'll go put it back' said Makoto grabbing the luggage. Minako pulled out her toothbrush and asked Makoto to put it in the closet. Ami sighed and sat down, a little ways away from Zoicite. She had a napkin in her hand and was nibbling on a brownie.

'Taco?' he said offering her the plate.

'No thank you' she said a little shyly, with her mouth slightly full. Rei sat in between them and fix him with a pointed and steady glare.

'If anything happens to her, while she's in there, you'll pay for it.'

'Ah, yes. Of course Hino-san' said Zoicite a little nervously.

'Oh, Mamo-chan! I'm so scared! I heard on TV that if she drops the soap, when she showers…' Usagi trailed off, curling up next to him as she rested her head on his chest. He smiled down at her affectionately, unperturbed by her statement.

'Mina-san's very capable' he reassured her.

'Oh, taco! I was just about to warm some up too!' said Usagi cheerfully, reaching for the plate. Zoicite handed her the plate with a mournful look on his face.

'They look delicious! Do you want some Rei-chan, Mamo-chan?' They all shook their heads and she happily chomped down on her food. Minako folded her arms and sat across from Zoicite and next to Kunzite.

'Okay. I want to hear it from you. What's the plan?' she said crossing her legs. Makoto walked in and curled up on the available sofa chair with Luna in her lap. The sleek, black cat began to purr, as Makoto slowly scratched Luna's head and Zoicite cleared his throat.

'We go in tonight and get you booked. This will catch the prosecution off guard. That particular precinct is always swamped with cases so he won't really have adequate time to prepare for the case. I've already used your audition as an excuse to set the hearing and trial for tomorrow. Because it's a traffic violation, a judge will hear your case and he will hand down the ruling. I've set the time so that we get the Honorable Himoko. He's very friendly, owns several cats, is a fan of yours, and is bit of a lecher. It won't hurt to show some leg.' He held up a hand to stem Rei's gasp of outrage and everyone else's smiles and giggles.

'You don't have to do it. It's just a suggestion' he said soothingly.

'Humph' said Rei, displeased at his remark.

'Now then. He should be sympathetic to your plight. Hopefully he'll lighten your sentence to community service. We need you cat to look wounded so we can present him as evidence. Mizuno-san has offered to encase him in plaster from head to tail.' Minako burst out laughing and Luna sniggered.

'Oh I'm sure he'll love that' she said gasping for air. Kunzite smiled softly down at her and she leaned into him slightly. For now things were all right between them and Minako took comfort in that fact. Later on, they'd have it out over Artemis and Amika, and hopefully make up.

'You know, I could've sworn I smelled chocolate' he whispered into her hair.

'Oh those are gone. We polished them off.'

He sighed wistfully. 'Thought so. Gluttons' he murmured into her hair. She smiled happily, not caring about the bombarding she was sure to get into the car over this situation. Rei was giving her the look and Mako-chan was getting that crafty glint in her eye whenever she glanced their way. Zoicite finished explaining and with that they made some last minute preparations, before they left. Makoto cooked the salmon that Artemis asked her to make while he was in the bathroom preening, Usagi and Zoicite polished off all the tacos, and Minako did laundry.

The Thesis- He had tried to work on it while he waited for Tomoyo-san. But it was a moot point. His concentration was shot. His thesis was his future, if he didn't finish it and if it wasn't brilliant, the likelihood of him ever getting that dream job of teaching rarely, writing often, and traveling frequently would never come true.

Tomoyo Amika- A knock came at the door and he and Artemis exchanged looks.

'Can I stay for the show?' he said grinning and leaning into the couch. Kunzite glared at him.

'In the master bedroom or I'll neuter you.'

'What if you two decide to make up? Then where will I go?' he shot back unperturbed by the threat. Kunzite threw a couch pillow at his head, without bothering to see if it hit. He was too nervous to concentrate on his mocking statements. When he heard the bedroom door close, he steeled himself and opened the front door.

'Hello Tomoyo-san.'

'Shikoku-san' she icily as she walked in. Kunzite tensed at the frost in her voice. Amika was pretty in her own way; especially, if she put her mind to it. And it just so happened, that she had set her mind to it tonight. It was ridiculous and cliché. She was dressed up and perfumed just to remind him what he would be missing, when they broke up. It also reminded him of the huge leap of faith he was about to make on his relationship with Minako. There's a reason things are cliché, he thought as he closed the door. It's because they hold grain of truth.

'Would you like something to drink?'

'No thank you', she said seating herself on the couch. Great, there was no avoiding it. This was it. It was time to tell her how he felt. She took a breath as she looked at him.

'Well?' she asked looking at him with a perfectly manicured eyebrow raised. He seated himself on the couch across from her and began.

'I never really thought that we meshed. We have very different tastes—

'Is this about that silly knife collection?' she asked angrily interrupting him.

'It's not a knife collection' he said with great patience.

'So why did you cheat on me?'

'I didn't cheat on you. You assumed that I cheated on you and then you trashed my apartment.'

'She was holding a bra when I walked in! Do you think I'm stupid enough to believe that you didn't screw her?'

'I never had sex with her.'

'I can't believe you, you lying bastard! Then what was she doing in your room?'

'She was cleaning it up for a mutual friend of ours. I let our friend stay because it was an emergency. If you must know, I slept on the couch.'

'Bullshit.'

'You don't have to believe me.'

'Why did you ask me to marry you if we don't have similar tastes then?' Ah, the cincher. The very question he was asking himself, ever since he let Minako-san in his apartment.

'I thought that our different tastes wouldn't be an issue. My mother wanted me to me marry you and we had grown up together so I thought, why not? I respected you and I thought that was enough for a marriage to work.'

'But you didn't love me.' How did this happen? He thought bleakly. How could she turn my whole life upside down like this in barely a week?

'No, I didn't love you, not as much as I thought I did. I felt like something was off. But I figured I was just getting cold feet.'

'I loved you.'

'I know.'

'That's why I said yes' she said wrapping her arms around herself, clearly upset.

'I'm sorry.'

'You should be. You led me on.'

'I didn't lead you on. I was fully intending on marrying you.'

'Then what changed?' Everything, he thought.

'You trashed my apartment in a fit of rage, displaying a lack of trust and faith in me and my intentions. So I decided to end it based on that incident.'

'You're pining this on me? How dare you!' she snapped angrily, her eyes blazing.

'You didn't even consult me on what was happening; you assumed and acted like an immature child.'

'So there isn't another woman?' Argh. He thought frustrated. He couldn't lie to her.

'Yes there is.'

'That's it. I'm leaving and I hope you rot in hell!' she said getting up and slamming the front door shut. He got up and locked it, just in case she decided to change her mind, and came back to unleash another typhoon of destruction. He walked up the stairs and fell forward into the couch. Letting out a loud groan, he exhaled and inhaled. Kami. It was over. Amika always made him tense.

'I think that went rather well, considering that she didn't destroy anything. Don't you?' said Artemis gleefully chuckling as he walked into the living room.

'Cat…'

'Yes?'

'Never mind. I don't have the strength to say anything sarcastic.'

'Oh, how disappointing. I hoping to verbally spar with you through the night' he said seating himself with his plate of food.

'Are you still eating?'

'Well I thought that it would be rude to eat in your room, so instead I decided to listen in on your conversation.'

'Ass.'

'I couldn't help it. Cats have sensitive ears you know. Besides she was practically yelling.' He sighed. Why do I even bother? thought Kunzite snorting softly.

'You okay?' He rolled over onto his back and stared up at the ceiling.

'I just have a lot to think about.'

'Like what?'

'You, for example.'

'What about me?'

'You're not normal.'

'Where I come from, I'm quite normal.'

'Well, I have to point out that you're not from here.'

'That's very true.'

'So you're not from Earth?'

'Kami, no. This barbaric place? Be serious.' Something inside Kunzite, akin to anger, flared up. He regained his composure.

'Spaceship?'

'Nonexistent."

'Really?'

'Yup.'

'Huh.'

Silence.

'So how do you get around?'

'I bum rides off of Mina-chan and her friends.'

'So they all know about you.'

'Of course.'

'Kami-sama! You mean to tell me that they all knew and they just kept quiet about it? Even Mamoru-san knows?'

'Yes to both.'

'Where do I meet these people?' he asked the ceiling as he pinched the bridge of his nose.

'You don't meet them. You run over their friends and they come after you.'

'You were in the way.'

'Now who's being an ass?'

'Me.'

'Very good. So what else is on your mind?'

'How is it possible for Minako-san to have completely turned my life upside down in barely a week? I haven't had this many disasters happen to me, since…well… never.'

'Get used it to.'

'That's the thing! I can't!' he said springing to his feet 'I'm scared! I'm going crazy! I have a connection to people I've never met before and there's more of them out there! They know me and how I act! I'm not used to this! And then there's you! You can talk and turn humanoid! And Minako-san! She's, well I can't even put that in words!'

'Hey!'

'You have a tail.'

'So I'm humanoid?'

'Yes.'

'Why can't I be Mauian?'

'Mauian?'

'I'm from Mau.'

'Fine. Whatever.'

'It's okay. I understand that it's too much for your puny human brain to take in all at once.'

'I resent that statement cat.'

'Yes, well. You'll have to get used to it especially if you plan to have Minako-chan in your life more often. She's not you're average woman.'

'But that's just it. I have to make a decision. I have to pick either my nice normal life or Minako-san, talking cats, Mamoru-san, Zoicite-san, and Kami-sama knows who else.'

Kunzite looked despairingly at Artemis and plopped back on the couch. Artemis took a bite of his salmon.

'Well don't look at me. Besides, if things don't work out between Mina-chan and you, Luna and I have already decided to wipe your memory' he said leaning back into the couch.

'Hey!'

'You know too much human.'

'You wipe my memory and I'll neuter you, you bastard cat.'

'Threats don't work on me. I'm not scared of you.'

Kunzite got up and walked to laundry room, and tossed Artemis his clothes. Artemis shook it out and froze, staring, disbelieving at what he saw.

'YOU WORM!!!' he shouted at the top of his lungs.

Kunzite grinned, 'What's wrong?'

'You have no idea what you've done!'

'Oh?'

'This! You useless carrion, is my fur!'

'Really?' he said interestedly as he placed his arms on the back of couch and leaned forward to inspect the cloth, Artemis was holding out.

'When I shift to my human form, I shift with this on! If I put this on now, I'll be pink! Pink! Do you understand how ridiculous I'll look, walking around with pink fur?'

Kunzite threw his head back and laughed loudly. 'No' he said chuckling 'But I'd love a demonstration.'

'AH! You have ruined me! I'll never be able to hold my head high again! You worthless human!'

'Minako washed the clothes not me.'

'YOU IDIOT! YOU BRAINLESS, DROOLING, THICK, WITLESS…'

'Hey! How was I supposed to know she couldn't do laundry?' Artemis chucked a couch pillow at Kunzite's head. Kunzite caught it and placed on the couch he was leaning on.

'It's Minako! She's can't do anything involving the household!'

'Can you?'

Silence.

'That's not the point! The point is…argh! Never mind. Selene! Why? Why me? Grant me patience!' he snapped as lumbered off to the bathroom to change. Kunzite sat on the couch and waited for him to come out.

Silence.

'It's not that bad.'

'Yes it is.'

'People dye their poodles pink.'

'I'm not a poodle!'

'You look good in pink.'

'Shut up, Shikoku-san.'

'By the way, you missed the meeting that we had before Minako-san left. Mizuno-san is supposed to put you to in a cat-shaped body cast sometime tomorrow for the trial. Just thought I'd let you know.'

Silence.

'Want to talk about it?' asked Kunzite smirking.

'Just. Leave. Me. Alone.'

'Okay. Well, I'll be asleep in the master bedroom if you need anything. Don't hesitate to let me know. Anything. Catnip. Bleach—

'Shikoku-san!' snapped Artemis. Kunzite grinned and walked towards the bedroom.

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'Soooo…Mina-chan', drawled Makoto. Mamoru was riding with Alderton-san. That left the girls in Makoto's car. By rights, as the driver, Makoto got to pick the juicy topic of conversation.

'Mako-chan…I'm going to jail. Go easy on me.'

'Hah. Never. Spill it. You and Shikoku-san are getting a little cozy eh?'

'I like him and he likes me.'

'Mina-chan, he has a fiancée!' said Rei staring at her.

'No way!' shrieked Usagi gleefully.

'I don't think he would intentionally deceive her, Rei-chan' said Ami sagely.

'Now girls. I get the first question.'

Silence.

'Did you kiss him?' asked Makoto eagerly.

Silence.

'Yes.'

'Mina-chan!!!' they chorused.

'Was he any good?' asked Makoto, curious.

'That's two questions!' protested Minako.

'It's a follow up! Follow ups are allowed!' argued Makoto. Everyone looked at Ami. As the one with the best memory, she was the keeper of the rules.

'Follow ups are allowed.'

'Next time I drive' groaned Minako.

'Answer my question or I'm putting you on the brownie suspension list.'

'Okay, Okay. Yes.'

'Mina-chan!!!'

'Seeing as I am in the position of shot gun, I get the next question. Did you do anything else with him?' asked Ami.

'No.' Everyone breathed a sigh of relief.

'Did you want to?' asked Ami.

'Yes.'

'Mina-chan!!!'

'In my defense! In my defense! He is very good-looking' she argued waving her hands frantically to stem the chorus.

'He reminds me of my senpai.'

'Does the Jade Tree Bakery guy remind you of your senpai?' asked Minako craftily. Makoto scowled.

'I'm the one asking the questions here! I'm next!' said Rei.

'Has he broken up with his fiancée?' she asked.

'He's supposed to tonight.'

Cheers rang out in the car.

'He's supposed to? Are you out of your mind?' shouted Rei over the cheering.

'No!'

'I'm next!' crowed Usagi.

'So what do you like about him?' she asked.

'I don't know. He's funny and I'm attracted to him. But it's more than that. He treats me like me. He doesn't put me in a box and he isn't freaked out by Artemis. With other guys, I'm supposed to be in this role, like the dumb blonde. He doesn't make me feel like I should be in that role. And…this one time…I saw him in just a towel.'

'Details!' demanded Usagi. A chorus of agreement followed.

'He works out' she sighed blushing, 'He has a nice back.'

Giggles.

'Back to me!' said Makoto.

'Okay. Are you okay with being a man stealer?'

Silence.

'I'm not a man stealer. Technically.'

'Go on' encouraged Makoto.

'He said that he ended the relationship with Amika and then I kissed him like a day afterward. Plus, he was having trouble with their relationship before I even came in the picture.'

'So he's breaking up with her tonight?' asked Makoto.

'That's not a follow up!' said Minako.

'It's a clarification! Clarifications are allowed!' Everyone turned to Ami.

'Clarifications are allowed.'

'Hah! Answer the question!'

'Yes.'

'Hey Rei. Maybe we should turn the car around and pay her back for the bruise on your cheek and your hair' said Makoto.

'No!!! You guys!!' protested Minako panicking. Kunzite would not appreciate his ex being jumped in the parking lot by an angry priestess and a black belt.

'Just a suggestion' said Makoto lightly.

'No more suggestions, Makoto' said Ami, sighing.

Silence.

She was safe. The Q&A session had ended and they had run out of questions for now. Minako sighed and looked out the window at the streetlights flashing by.

'Soooo…Ami-chan.' Ami froze and turned to Makoto with a wide eyed pleading expression on her face. Minako sat up immediately with an evil grin on her face.

'Yeah…Ami-chan. I almost forgot' said Minako gleefully.

'I'm driving Mina-chan' said Makoto firmly.

'Did you kiss him?' she asked.

'No' said Ami blushing.

'Do you want to?' Makoto followed up.

Silence.

'You guys!!' said Ami beet red.

'Answer it!!' they chorused.

'Yes' she said quietly.

'Ami-chan!!!'

'What!' she said.

'My turn!!' shouted Minako happily.

'Alright Ami-chan. Was there ever a moment that you were close to kissing him?'

'Yes.'

'Details!!'

'Well… We were getting ready to go and I reached up and pulled a pencil that he had behind his ear.'

'And!!!'

'Well, it was the way he looked at me. I thought he was going to so I pulled back.'

'Why!!'

'Because she's not crazy like some people!!!' said Rei.

'You can't answer the question for her!!!' protested Minako.

'You can't answer the question for me Rei. Because I didn't want him to. But I did!'

'Aww!!! Ami-chan!!'

'So you killed the mood?' asked Minako.

'Yes.'

'So, what don't you like about him?' asked Rei, immediately taking her turn.

'He's pompous!! And way too self-confident!! I dream of the day that my rival in Einstein collecting will give me the papers!!!' she shouted passionately.

Silence.

'After everything blows over. And I mean everything, we're having a girl's night out. You need to get out more and stop collecting a dead guy's stuff. It isn't healthy, Ami-chan' said Minako worriedly.

'Never! He is my personal ideal! I aspire to become greater than him one day!!!'

'Oookkay. My turn. What do you like about him?' asked Usagi

Silence.

'I like how he asks for my help in order to spend time with me, and he doesn't think I notice that he really doesn't need my help.'

'Aww!!'

'So you think he's cute?' asked Usagi slyly.

'Of course!'

'Ami-chan!!'

'What!! He is!!'

'What do you like about him physically?' Usagi followed up.

'I like his hair. I can tell what sort of mood he's in by how it acts. It's a little weird. But it's nice.'

'Okay, I really hate to break up the interrogation, but we're here' announced Makoto sighing as she parked.

Silence.

'Be careful. You're my first in command' said Usgai giving her a hug. Everyone got out and gave her a hug.

'You guys. I don't want to go!' said Minako tearfully. Rei glanced about and noted the pace at which Zoicite and Mamoru approached the group.

'You stop that. You're a senshi and not just any senshi. You're our leader and we're the best, and don't you forget it. You'll be fine' said Rei hugging her tightly. Though they were all friends, they each had people that they were closer to. Rei and Minako were closer to each other despite all the bickering and squabbling they got into. It was moments like these in which it showed. If Minako ever needed Rei, she would be there and vice versa.

'I'll stay with her and look after her while Alderton-san processes her' Ami told Rei.

'Alright. Make sure she gets out okay, Ami-chan.'

'I will' she responded.

'Oh hon. I'm going to bake the biggest chocolate cake when this is over' said Makoto hugging her tightly.

'With the homemade frosting?'

'Of course.'

'Thanks Mako-chan.'

'Hurry up and get out okay so we can have that cake' said Usagi waving and running towards Mamoru.

'Hey V-babe. Good luck' he said hugging Minako, before slipping an arm around Usagi's waist.

'Thanks, Endymion-sama.' He smiled at the formal usage of his name. She must be scared, if she's trying to put up a brave front.

Endymion, I know that name; it seems so familiar, thought Zoicite dizzily as he leaned against the car.

'Alderton-san. Are you alright?' asked Ami concerned as she touched his arm. Her touch brought him back to the present and he smiled at her.

'I'm okay. Ready, Aino-san?'

'Yeah. I guess so' she said sighing.

They entered the station and the officer at the desk gave them a cursory glance. He looked up a second time his eyes widening as he realized who was at the station.

'Well look who it is! I see you're here to collect the reward' he said to Ami.

'Reward?' she asked surprised.

'I forgot to mention the reward' said Alderton-san smiling 'Go ahead, Mizuno-san. Collect the reward.'

'Alderton-san!' she hissed. He grasped her elbow and took her out of the earshot of the officer on duty at the desk.

'Half these officers are in the pay of the yakuza, so you won't be doing any harm if you take some money out of their already fattened coffers.' She turned red, and her heart began to pound. He was leaning in close and she could feel his breath tickling the shell of her sensitive ear. It didn't help that he smelled and looked good either. He was dressed professionally in a suit and tie. She sighed hopelessly; she had a weakness for men in ties with messy hair. Like Albert.

'Go on. You're a med student I'm sure some extra spending change won't hurt.'

'My finances are in perfectly good order! Thank you very much!' she hissed defensively. He sighed patiently.

'Look I didn't mean to offend you. I'm sure they are. Just go on and take the check' he pleaded nudging her towards the counter. She swatted at his hands upset at his swift maneuvering of the situation. The blasted man always had his way it seemed. His green eyes looked at her gently and she had to turn away at what their depths revealed. Minako and the officer were giving them strange looks and so for Minako's sake, she stepped forward.

'Ah, yes. I'm here to turn her in.'

'We've had a devil of a time finding her' said the officer handing Ami a stack of paperwork to fill out.

'Just sign here. Fill out this description and this form and that one. I'll take care of the rest. Alright Aino-san. Come with me. And who are you sir?'

'I'm her lawyer. I just arrived.'

'Uh-huh. Okay. You can come along too I suppose.' Ami walked over to the waiting room and pulled out a pen from her purse. Zoicite leaned over her and she turned pink from the sensation of his warm body near hers.

'It might take a minute. Here's some money for a taxi cab.'

'Oh! No! I can't take that. I can wait here. It's not a problem.'

'Don't be silly. It'll be awhile.'

'I'll wait' she said firmly. He sighed.

'Alright. I'll be back. Don't spend all the reward money at the vending machine' he said chuckling. She glared at him and he smiled at her annoyed expression. What could he say? He was hooked. She was beautiful, even when riled.

'I'll be back' he said gently. She watched him walk away; her face heating slowly. He was looking at her that way again. Gah! That man! She thought flabbergasted. She sighed disgusted at all the paperwork she had to fill out. They probably do it on purpose so that no one claims the money. Well, since I'll be here awhile I might as well fill all this out, she thought. She passed the time by going over equations in her head and psychologically profiling everyone in the station. It was going on one in the morning when he came out of the back hallway of the station. He looks exhausted, she thought worriedly.

'Hey' he said slightly sleepy, yet triumphant.

'Ready?' she asked.

'Kami, yes' he said tiredly.

'How is she?'

'She's got the jailor wrapped around her pinky finger, her own cell; two cots pushed together, extra blankets, and pillows.' Ami laughed, her exhaustion showing slightly.

'That's Mina-chan, through and through.'

'Yeah, I figured. Let's get out of here and get to bed.' They made their way through the lobby and across the parking lot, leaning on each other slightly.

'I bet we look drunk to the officers. They might stop us before we even leave the parking lot' he said jokingly. Ami laughed and shivered slightly at the chilly dawn air. He put his arm around her and she snuggled into him, for once, too tired to blush or panic at his proximity.

'Do you have any idea where you parked?' she asked quietly breaking the comfortable silence.

'Not a clue. My brain is fried.'

She smiled slightly.

'Just asking. By the way' she said breaking away slightly to reach into her purse, 'Here. This should be more than enough to pay for the papers.' He froze and stiffened slightly before pulling away from her completely and stepping back. She stepped forward, and shivered slightly at the loss of his warmth. His face betrayed his shock and disbelief as she tried to hand him the reward money.

'Mizuno-san…I can't take this. In fact, I won't. I refuse' he said stubbornly.

'Why not?' she asked frowning 'It should be more than enough. If you want, I can double it.'

'It's not the money.'

'Then what is it?'

'It's you.'

'Pardon?'

'It's you. If I give you the papers, I'll never see you again. And I for one don't think I can allow that.'

'Eh?'

He sighed patiently. He knew it was late, but Kami, did he have to spell it out for her?

'I like you, Mizuno-san.'

'Oh' she said dumbly.

'Yeah' he said lamely, scratching his head. She cocked her head and looked at him, sighing slightly.

'I see. Well then' she said walking off.

'Err. Mizuno-san?'

'Yes?' she said patiently turning around and blinking owlishly at him.

'I just told you that I like you. An acceptance or rejection would be nice, so I can move on with my life and get to bed to sleep in peace.' She smiled at him.

'Well…I like you too.'

'Ah. Good. Most excellent' he said walking forward and looping her arm through his.

'So… may I see you more often?' he asked burying his nose into her hair.

'On a regular basis?'

'As your schedule would allow' he murmured softly.

'I think I would like that, Alderton-san' she said quietly.

'There's the car' he said pointing it out before slipping his hand back into his coat pocket. Next time, bring gloves, he thought tiredly.

'And you can call me Zoicite' he said as an afterthought.

'Okay' she said yawning slightly and covering her mouth. She blinked and sniffed, resting her head on his arm. On an impulse, he leaned in slightly, cupping her cheek in his palm and kissed her. A chill wind blew, ruffling her hair and she stepped in closer. He wrapped an arm around her and broke off the kiss. They stayed like for a minute against the car. She, with her head buried in his chest, and he, with his arms wrapped around her.

'Hey you asleep?' he asked her after some time had past.

'Practically' she said her voice muffled.

He laughed tired and elated.

'Let's get you home then.'

'Okay' she said shuffling to the passenger side of the car. He walked around to the driver's side and unlocked the door.

'Hey' he said before he got in.

She looked up at him and blinked.

'Can I call you Ami-san?'

'Okay' she said smiling and yawning.

'Sorry. I forgot to tell you, you could do the same. I'm so tired' she said laughing as she got in.

'It's okay.' They drove in complete silence and he turned on the radio to keep himself awake. Every so often, he would glance over at her when the light turned red to watch her doze off. He turned to her when he got to her apartment.

'Ami-san. We're here.' She stirred slightly and he realized that she was fast asleep. He shook her gently.

'Hmm?' she murmured dazed.

'We're here' he repeated.

'Oh. Okay. Bye-bye' she said fumbling to unbuckle her seatbelt. He reached over, kissed her softly, and helped her take off the seatbelt.

'Good night' he said watching her leave.

'Night' she said yawning and blinking. He watched her open the door to her apartment and drove away smiling tiredly.

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He tried to sleep that night. Tried. His thoughts revolved around one topic. The possibility of Minako insinuating herself in his life even more. Was it even possible? Could he live with her? She was a klutz, trouble, and she couldn't do any kind of household chores. And she could be annoying. Very annoying. In fact, he was annoyed with her now. What was it about her? She was beautiful, but he had seen and known plenty of beautiful women. None of them acted like her. None of them drew him like she did. She was different. She made living effortless. She had no worries. And he already missed her. He tried to think about her leaving. What that would be like. He could deal with it; he supposed. But why was he so drawn to her? He couldn't figure it out. But what scared him the most was that he knew that if she stayed everything would be different. His life now was boring and mundane. He could handle it. He even liked it. But with Minako in the picture there were so many possibilities. He had a decision to make. The sooner he made it the better. And so that night in the darkness of his room, Kunzite came to an unsettling conclusion.

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'Trial's today' she muttered out loud to no one. The alarm was ringing loudly and she fumbled to turn it off. For once, she hadn't woken before it rang, which was a testament to how tired she was. She rolled over on her stomach, smooshed her face against the pillow and groaned loudly. She needed coffee badly. Her head popped up.

'Kami!!! He kissed me!!! Twice!!!' she said wide awake. How could she almost forget something that important? The phone rang.

'Hello? Ah!!! Alderton-san, I mean, Zoicite-san! How are you?' she said turning red and stammering.

'Good morning Ami-san. The trial's today at nine.'

'I know I have class, I won't be able to make it, but I'm sure everyone else will. Good luck with everything' she said calming down slightly.

'Can I see you later on tonight?'

'Tonight?!?! Oh, um Let me check' she said twisting around to look for her schedule. Where are you? She silently pleaded with her notebook.

'Hold on. I'll be right back' she said hopping out of the bed. She tossed the phone onto her comforter and sprang for her backpack as she furiously tore through her bag. She found her glasses and placed them on her nose. Next, she searched the floor for her planner.

'Hah!' she said triumphantly as she ripped through the pages to get to this week's schedule.

'Exam on Monday. I've already done this coming week's readings' she muttered to herself as she crouched on the floor with the book in her lap. She pulled at her bangs as she tried to figure out if she had enough time to see him again. Making her decision, she hopped on the bed and picked up the phone.

'Okay' she said holding the phone with her shoulder, as she readied her pen, 'I should be free tonight. What time would you like to meet?'

'Is eight okay?'

'That would be reasonable.'

'Good. I'll see you then.'

'Goodbye.'

'Goodbye, Ami-san.'

She hung up and frowned slowly. Hmm, did this mean that they were dating or boyfriend and girlfriend?

'I'll have to ask Mina-chan. Great, I can just imagine her reaction. I'll never hear the end of it' she said out loud, grimacing. She resolved to call Minako later on in the day to see how the trial went. If she picked up then she was free from judicial prison, if not, well…

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'All rise for the Honorable Judge Himoko' intoned the bailiff.

'Is it the one we wanted?' whispered Minako staring at the tottering old man who struggled to get into the judge's stand.

'Yeah' said Zoicite out of the corner of his mouth.

'He's really old.'

'Yeah.'

'The People of Tokyo vs. Aino Minako' announced the bailiff.

'Do the people in Tokyo really hate me?' she asked, worried about her fan base.

'No' whispered Zoicite as he sat down.

'Are you nervous?' whispered Minako biting her cuticle as the prosecution stood to argue the case.

'Why, are you?' asked Zoicite softly smiling as he shuffled his papers.

'No. I was just making sure you weren't. If you need me to take over or something let me know. I know this stuff like the back of my hand. So if you have to pee or you want to go to the vending machine, don't worry about it. I've got it. Objection, your honor!' she said standing up and thumping the table with her hand. Zoicite tossed his pen down on the pad in disgust and buried his face in his hands.

'Sit down, Aino-san. The man's barely strung together a paragraph' whispered Zoicite desperately through his fingers.

'Excuse me Aino-san?' scowled the prosecution.

'Let her speak. Go on Aino-san. To what do you object?' said the judge leaning forward and coughing slightly.

'Your Honor!' she began dramatically and tearfully.

'Aino-san. Please! Sit down! You'll ruin my winning streak!' whispered Zoicite through gritted teeth.

'That! Is not what happened!' she claimed loudly. She walked to the front of the defendant's table, and bent down, flashing her long legs and underwear to the judge. She brought out Artemis from underneath the table who was in a body cast. She thumped him down on the table. He mewled angrily.

'This Your Honor, is my poor Artemis!! He is my esteemed feline companion. Look at him! I would give the shirt off my back for him!' she said tearfully as she bared her shoulder and bra strap and shook her fist dramatically. She placed her foot on the table with a thump, which tipped Artemis over onto the table. He meowed pathetically.

'The prosecution claims that I was recklessly driving, but I charge you Your Honorable Judgeness to listen to the evidence brought before you by my lawyer. I implore you to pass a fair sentence for I was not recklessly driving! I was driving in a fog of panic for my poor kitty, who was run over! Look at him!' she exclaimed tearfully. Zoicite had folded his arms on the table and placed his head on them.

'Kami' he muttered.

'Well spoken Aino-san. Now then let's let the prosecution finish' said the judge licking his lips.

'Thank you. Your Honor' said prosecution coldly.

'How did I do?' she whispered to Zoicite as she buttoned up her shirt and sat back down.

'Aino-san, do you want to end my career as a lawyer?'

'No. Of course not. Unless you want me to. I need an agent.'

'I don't want you to, so I suggest that you don't ever do that again. I'm begging you.'

'Okay.'

'Thank you.' Minako looked over at Zoicite and she remembered what Ami told her last night in the car. I like his hair. I can tell what sort of mood he's in by how it acts. It's a little weird. But it's nice. His hair was frizzy and looked unkempt, as if he had stuck his head in a dryer and rubbed his hair against a bunch of fuzzy sweaters. She'd bet a month's pay that he would electrocute himself if he walked across a carpet and touched a metal doorknob. Aww, he's all upset and frustrated, she thought. I'll have to send him a fruit basket and a nice card when this is all over. She reached over and righted Artemis. He growled softly, a promise of death when they got home and he got out of the body cast. Maybe I should keep him in there she thought to herself. Ami came during a break in between classes to put in him the cast and according to her he was a soft "pretty" pink and pissed. Thank God, he couldn't talk. The only excuse she had for that, if he ever did, was that she was practicing ventriloquism and they'd commit her for sure if she ever resorted to that excuse in court. The prosecution called her up several times to testify and he asked her all the hard questions, but she was actress born and practically bred. Lying didn't faze her and she made as many dramatic speeches as she could. They're perfect for each other she thought as the judge announced a recess. Zoicite turned bright red when he was mortified and embarrassed too, just like Ami did.

'So what do we have to eat?' she asked brightly. To her surprise, he grabbed Artemis and her hand and dragged them through the courthouse. They dashed down the bright white steps of the judicial courthouse and he hustled her into his car.

'Um, are we allowed to leave?'

'We have twenty minutes until we have to be back. I've only had to do this once and I swore I'd never do this again.'

'Do what?' He grimly drove out of the parking lot and onto the street. After a few minutes he slowed down and parked.

'Uh, Alderton-san. What are we doing at a temple?' she asked after a moment of silence.

'Just get out and come with me.'

They dashed up the temple steps and he cleansed himself and rang the bell.

Clap, Clap.

'Hear me! Kami-sama! Please grant this lowly one a victory in court.'

'Are our chances that bad?'

'After the performance you put on? Do you want me to answer that?' he asked his teeth gritted and his eyes closed. She checked his hair. Still frazzled.

Clap, Clap.

'Oh great Kami-sama! Hear my plea! I don't want to go to jail!' she said making the appropriate absolutions. She dug out her purse and paid for some incense to be lit. He did the same and they headed back towards the car.

'Do you think it'll work?'

'I hope so, for both our sakes' he replied.

'You won that case right?'

'Yeah, on a technicality.'

'What happened?'

'One of the jury members had a heart attack during the proceedings.'

'You're kidding.'

'Nope.'

'Yeesh. Maybe we should go back and change the prayer a little.'

'By any means necessary, Aino-san.'

'You're a cold one, Alderton-san.'

'I'm a lawyer. I'm just practical.'

'I hope you're not practical with Ami-chan' she said giving him a look.

'I leave my game face at work.'

'Good. It seems we have something in common.'

'Oh?'

'Yup. Just hope you never see me with my game face.'

He chuckled. Because if you do, there's probably a youma near by, she thought smiling as they drove off. Artemis meowed plaintively in the backseat.

'He's either hungry or has to go to the bathroom. Too bad he can't talk, so he can tell us' said Minako giggling. Artemis growled. Oh, she was so in for it when they got back to the apartment.

'This is a very nice car, as you probably noted. So I hope that it isn't the 'I have to go to the bathroom' meow. If it is, you are so footing the bill, Aino-san.'

'I take full responsibility.'

'Good. It's hard to clean cat shit off of leather.'

'I hope you aren't speaking from experience' she said grinning.

'I hope I never have to' he retorted. They both looked at each other and laughed. She checked his hair. Still frazzled. Maybe I should pay him, she mused.

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'She's been bawling for over an hour now. I have no idea why.'

'Bullshit! You were there during the whole court proceeding and you're telling me that you have no idea why she's crying?'

'Look, I personally think that the ruling was really fair. In fact it was more than fair. The man went easy on her. She didn't even get any community service hours!'

'I'll be there in five minutes' said Kunzite hanging up the phone. He sighed frustrated and loosened his tie with his pointer finger. He just got the voicemail message from Minako and he immediately drove straight from work to the courthouse without even changing. He could barely make out what she was saying and it sounded pretty bad. Zoicite hadn't been really forthcoming with any information either. He sounded rather insulted actually. Then again, Zoicite could be a tad self-centered. Funny how that hadn't changed a bit. Hopefully, Mizuno-san could jolt him out of that. He parked and dashed up the stark white steps to the courthouse. He ignored the headache that was forming. It was sign that a memory was coming; it could wait. Right now, Minako needed him. He slowed down and walked through the metal detectors, making sure to drop his keys into the metal bowl. Jogging to the bathrooms, he found Alderton-san sitting on the bench with Artemis in a cat body cast. He didn't even blink. Funny how hanging around Minako has killed the 'Kami that is the craziest thing I have ever seen in my life' shock factor.

'She's in there. Wait a minute! You can't go in there! Oh why do I even bother anymore' said Zoicite disgusted, as he watched Kunzite boldly walk into the women's restroom. There were several shrieks of surprise and two women hurried out holding their chests, clutching their purses, and looking quite affronted.

'Idiot' said Zoicite out loud to no one particular.

'Minako?' he said knocking on the stall, where the telltale sniffling was coming from.

'What.' She hiccupped.

'Come out.'

'No.'

'Don't make me come in there.'

She laughed and hiccupped.

'How do you plan on doing that?'

'I'll think of something.'

She sighed and unlocked the stall.

'You probably would, wouldn't you' she asked him sadly. She reached over, yanked some toilet paper from the roll, and loudly blew her nose. She sniffed dryly, walked to the marble sinks, and hopped on them. She shifted and sat on her hands, making herself comfortable. They were silent for a minute and she swung her legs to and fro, while she waited for him to break the silence. She studied the floor tiles.

'What's wrong?'

'They revoked my license for a year and they've impounded my car, so I won't be able to drive.'

'For a year?'

'Yeah. It was my first car. I paid for it. I love my car' she said choking and her eyes watering. He walked towards her and she waved him off.

'I'm fine. No, really' she protested as he wrapped his arms around her. She sighed and accepted his hug, placing her head on top of his. He smells good she thought. Warm too.

'We'll figure it out' he said quietly.

'We'll?' she asked pulling back and looking at him with surprise.

'Of course. You'll have to live with me after all. How else am I going to get you back and forth?'

Silence.

'We're moving into my apartment.'

'No way.'

'Yes way.'

'Absolutely not.'

'Absolutely yes. It's bigger and I have an empty room with a lock. We could put your sword collection in there.'

'I'm moving in with you' he announced as if it had been his idea all along.

She laughed.

'I knew you'd see it my way.'

'Minx.'

'Yeah' she said placing her head on his chest and closing her eyes.

'Artemis is going to have a fit' he murmured against her throat.

She smiled at the tickling sensation.

'I heard he's pink.'

'Oh we already went through that. He has a bone to pick with you.'

She smiled and he pulled away, his silver gray eyes serious.

'We have to talk about Artemis.'

She stiffened and looked away, her face and posture stubborn.

'I'll tell you as much as I'm able. Besides we have to talk about your fiancée too.'

'Ex-fiancée.'

'We still have to talk.'

'There's nothing to talk about.'

She sighed.

'Can you at least hear me out?'

He nodded.

'Have you ended it with her?'

'Yes' he responded.

'Are you completely happy with your decision?'

'I didn't want to hurt her. I ended up doing it anyway. I grew up with her and we were good friends. I don't think I'll be able to get that back. That chapter of my life is closed. But I didn't want to sacrifice my happiness and marry her. So, yes I ended it with her completely.'

Minako sighed slightly relieved.

'I feel weird, like I'm the cause of it.'

'Well you are.'

'Hey!'

'It's a good thing though. You made me think about things and I never would have seen that side of her unless you and Hino-san were there. The situation, it shook me out of my daze.'

They were silent for a moment.

'I don't even know where to start with Artemis' he said finally.

'He's like an older brother. I won't give him up, he's my other half.'

'I'm not asking you to.'

'Good.'

'You don't have feelings for him do you?'

'No! Kami, No!'

'Is Luna like him?'

'Yes.'

'How many are there?'

'Just him and Luna. They'll probably have kids though.'

'How do you know?'

She smiled softly.

'Just a feeling I have.'

'It'll be weird living with a cat man.'

'Just think of him as a roommate.'

Kunzite grimaced.

'Does he usually sleep with you?'

'Yeah.'

'But he's a cat man.'

Minako scowled and thumped him on the head with her fist.

'It's not like that!'

'Alright, alright. I'm taking your word for it. If I see anything funny, I'm neutering him.'

'Besides, he hardly ever changes into his man form.'

'Hardly ever?'

'Rarely, he's either really drunk, really angry, or it's an emergency. He prefers his cat form. It takes too much energy to change back and forth.'

'It'll still take some getting used to.'

'I know. You've taken it well so far though.'

'You know. It's funny. I don't know why, but I'm not freaked out by it.'

'Good' she said as she drew him in for another hug. He released her after a moment.

'Okay, let's get home. I suppose that Mizuno-san gave you instructions on how to get Artemis out?'

'Yeah, something about a hammer and wait until she gets there. Delicate process, blah, blah.'

Silence.

'We could always use one of my swords.'

She laughed.

'Oh, yes. Excellent way to end the day.'

He smiled, helped her down, and made his way outside, where Zoicite was waiting.

'Kami! Finally! Are alright Aino-san?' asked Zoicite worriedly.

'I'm traumatized, but yes, I'm fine.'

'Good. Here take the cat. I think he's hungry. He's been meowing insanely, poor bastard. I bought him some Pocky, but he can't eat it.'

'He should be fine, right Arty-warty?'

Artemis growled. She took the Pocky and thanked Zoicite for his help.

'Oh it's no problem. It was interesting having you as a client. Let's never do it again' he said smiling.

'I can agree with that, I think I had to show a little too much leg on this one' she said handing the unfortunate feline to Kunzite.

'No one told you to take your shirt off Aino-san' chastised Zoicite.

'You took your shirt off!!' exclaimed Kunzite.

'Mere technicalities, my dear Watson' said Minako waving him off.

'Hello? Ah, Ami-san! Yes it went rather well' said Zoicite picking up his phone, the instant it rang.

'Hah! Yeah right! Considering that I have no car!' snapped Minako shaking the box of Pocky at Zoicite. Zoicite covered the mouthpiece of the phone.

'Mere technicalities, my dear Watson' he said impishly as he quoted her misquotation.

She scowled and he went back to the conversation.

'Meet me at the courthouse and bring your hammer and chisel. Poor Artemis is here. I'll meet you out front and get security to let you in. Okay. Bye.'

'Sooo…Alderton-san. You and Ami-chan are on a first name basis now eh?' grinned Minako as she waggled her eyebrows suggestively.

'Well we sort of decided to start dating last night.'

'Really!! Ahh!! I knew it would happen! Oh Kunzite-san isn't it exciting?'

'Thrilling' he said calmly seating himself on the bench. He took the box of Pocky from her, opened it, and began to feed it to Artemis through the hole reserved for his mouth.

'Hah! Victory! Yay!' she said throwing up the peace sign. Zoicite chuckled and indulged himself in giving her the peace sign in return.

'Oh how cute! Kunzite-san! Take a picture of us!' she said rummaging in her purse and pulling out a digital camera. He obliged her request and she smiled happily and showed it to Zoicite.

'Hah! Two stunning blondes! This is going up in my office!' he exclaimed happily at the results. They grinned at each other, having developed a point of interest. She whispered in his ear and he took a candid photo of a surprised Kunzite feeding Pocky to Artemis in a cast. Artemis growled.

'Haha! I want a copy of this one! That's hilarious!' laughed Zoicite as he reviewed the photo.

'I'll email them to you! Oh stop looking so stormy, Kunzite-san. It won't hurt to have a picture of you doing something silly somewhere in your office or apartment.'

Kunzite sighed and shook his head. She giggled and put the camera back in her purse. Zoicite got up and brushed himself off.

'How do I look?' he asked Minako as he turned for her inspection. She got up, straightened his tie, and handed him a brush.

'Your hair's frizzy.'

'It's because I'm stressed. Brushing it will only make it worse' he said matter-of factly as he handed her the brush.

'Then you look great' she said flashing him a grin and a peace sign. He returned the gestured.

'Alright, Kunzite-san. I'm off. Hold the fort while I'm away. And don't worry old man. We'll crack you out in no time' he said bending down to Artemis' eye level. Artemis growled and Zoicite chuckled.

'Temperamental, isn't he?'

'You have no idea, Zoicite-san' said Kunzite sighing. Artemis growled again. Minako shot

Kunzite a warning look and Zoicite headed to the entrance of the courthouse.

The sky had been overcast all day and it looked like it would rain any minute. I left my umbrella at home, sighed Zoicite as he leaned against the cold marble pillar. Thunder rumbled in the distance. He was so tired. Staying up after you dropped her off, wasn't a good idea, he scolded himself. It's supposed to be a vacation, remember, Zoicite? Remember. He rested his head against the stone and folded his arms. White marble, he thought closing his eyes. He listened to the sounds that he loved. His old middle school wasn't far from the courthouse. He would skip the school bus and walk home just to stop at the courthouse. The white marble steps pulled deeply at his heart. White marble always did. Always echoed and made him sad. He loved the tall columns, the austere carved lettering, and the imposing statues, that sat in judgment. He remembered how he would prop his backpack against the steps and walk around the circumference of the column. Around and around, feeling the smooth marble beneath his palm. Like an old ritual. He always knew that he would become a lawyer. Always. But the sounds of the courthouse were what he loved most. The footsteps echoing as people hurried to and fro. The muttering of voices as they discussed, debated, and talked. Like a holy temple. The swishing of robes. The rustling of scrolls. Somewhere deep inside him, he thought dizzily. I'm so tired. They say that demons live on the moon. The thought briefly skittered through his consciousness and he opened his eyes and blinked. There's no such thing as demons. White marble, his brain registered foggily. The rain began to fall, with a hissing, pattering sound against the white steps and his vision blurred. He pushed himself off the pillar to stand and the world spun. I can't breathe. Why am I so dizzy, he thought weakly. Someone familiar called his name as he hit the ground. Hard. He closed his eyes. Endymion-sama, they say that demons live on the moon. He opened his eyes and blinked as his vision came into sharp focus. Endymion-sama. A pale face with wet navy blue hair hovered above his vision. Her blue eyes blinked down into his. So lovely. He smiled and reached up to touch her cheek. Her delicate fingers intertwined with his.

'Zoicite' she said insistently.

'You're not a demon. Too beautiful. Too kind' he said as he blacked out. Blood trickled out of his nose

'Zoicite!!' The crowd around her huddled in closer and her head shot up.

'Give him room!' she snapped angrily. Abashed by her fierceness, the crowd backed off a few steps.

'Excuse me. Move. What's going on here?' asked a security guard as he shoved his way through the crowd.

'He's passed out. I called an ambulance. They should be here shortly' said Ami as she fought down the rising panic in her throat. Why are you panicking, she thought. People you knew have passed out before. But this was different. He wasn't a senshi; he didn't have that strength. He was human, a healthy one too; and something was wrong for him to pass out. Was there a youma? She thought scanning the crowd for any sign of danger. He mentioned demons. She stood up and clenched her fist near her heart, worried.

'Do you know him?' asked the guard drawing her attention. She turned red.

'Yes. He's—he's my boyfriend. Well, I'm dating him' she stuttered slightly confused as to what she was.

'Alright. That's fine. You can take him to the hospital. Everyone move back.' Ami pulled out her cell phone and dialed Minako's number.

'Hello? Minako? I'm outside. Zoicite-san blacked out on the front steps and I'm taking him to the hospital. I'm not sure what happened. I'll do a reading with the Mercury computer, when I get to the hospital. Yeah, I'm right outside.'

'Move! Out of the way!' came a voice and Ami looked up as a blonde forced her way through the crowd. Ami smiled relieved and hung up the phone.

'Ami-chan! Kami! What happened?' said Minako as she bent down to check his pulse. Ami shook her head.

'I don't know. I was walking up the steps and I saw him faint.' Kunzite walked through the crowd, not having to struggle as Minako did. People moved out of the way for his imposing aura, even though he looked odd. He was holding a growling, mummified Artemis and an open box of Pocky. Minako stood as she spotted him. His eyes widened as he saw who was on the ground.

'Zoicite-san?' he asked as he looked at Ami. She was hugging herself as she shivered.

'I don't know what happened' she said meeting Kunzite's gaze. Kunzite handed the Pocky and cat to Minako and knelt to inspect his companion's pale face. He looked peaceful, almost asleep. He seemed fine, except for the trickle of blood coming from his nose. Kunzite snorted. Zoicite was fine, he thought firmly. He's had worse before, like that nasty slash along the ribs in the rain and the forced retreat afterwards. He had a really high fever and he pulled through. Wait a minute, he thought. What am I thinking about? He shook his head to clear his jumbled thoughts. It didn't help though. That memory was a part of him.

'Idiot. He's probably exhausted and fainted from lack of sleep' he stated with conviction. He wasn't so sure as to who he was trying to convince though.

'Yes that's probably what's wrong. But I never meant for him to push himself that hard' said Ami sadly.

'It's okay Ami-chan' said Minako as she gave her a comforting hug. Artemis growled, clearly unhappy at being sandwiched between the two girls.

'Oh, Artemis. I'm so sorry. I can get you out of the cast when we get to the hospital' said Ami apologetically.

'He'll be fine' said Minako cheerfully as an ambulance wailed to a stop in front of the courthouse.

'They're here. He should be fine now' stated Kunzite frowning as he stood up to note the pace of the drivers climbing up the steps.

'I hope so' said Ami looking down on him sprawled on the ground.

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I'll protect you from any demons on the moon, Endymion-sama. He woke up and squinted.

'It's too bright' he said his voice rough. He looked over to his left. Curled up in a chair, was Ami highlighting a chapter in a thick medical tome. Doesn't waste anytime. I like that, he thought. He cleared his throat. She looked up surprised, and he smiled weakly.

'Too bright' he repeated. Shutting the book, she turned off the bright overhead light and pulled her chair closer to the bed. He turned on his side and sighed in the dimness. The sound of a doctor being paged cut through the silence.

'How are you feeling?' she asked softly.

'Tired. I have a headache too.' She reached out and tangled her fingers in his hair. He closed his eyes as she gently scratched his scalp.

'The doctors ran tests. They don't know what's wrong.'

'Mmm' he said, 'Keep scratching.'

She smiled softly and obliged.

'Did you get Artemis out?'

'Yes. He's fine.'

'Good' he said softly.

'Did you see anything?' she asked quietly.

'Anything?'

'Anything out of the ordinary. Before you fainted.'

'Just ghosts of the past.'

'Hmm?'

He sighed.

'A lot of weird things have happened lately that you don't know about. I don't want you to think I'm crazy.'

'Try me.'

'Are you sure?'

'I won't think you're crazy. Trust me.'

'I've been seeing tiny pink elephants.' The scratching stopped.

'How long have these sightings been occurring?' she asked all business.

'I'm just kidding' he chuckled.

'Zoicite-san' she chided softly.

'Keep scratching. Feels nice.' She obliged.

'I'm having memory flashes about Mamoru-san' he said. The scratching slowed.

'Well they're not really memory flashes. They're more like voices. They're triggered by white marble apparently. It's weird. I—never mind, Ami-san.'

'No. Go ahead. I believe you.' He opened his eyes and looked at her seriously. He sat up and leaned in close.

'How can you believe me, when I don't even believe myself? Hmm?' he asked his leaf green eyes fixated on her lips.

'I—I don't know' she said flustered as she turned pink. He smiled softly.

'Ah, well. I'll figure it out. Don't worry about it.' He said kissing her slowly. She pulled away and studied him worry in her eyes. He sighed softly and stroked her cheek.

'You said something about demons. Did you see anything?'

'They say that there are demons on the moon.'

'Who does?'

'I don't know. It's like an old memory. Someone was trying to persuade me to not go to the moon. Sounds crazy doesn't it?'

'No.' He looked at her, surprise evident on his face.

'I'm crazy too, you know' she said smiling.

'Mmm. Good. We'll get along fairly well.'

'I suppose so.'

'You suppose so? Your doubt wounds my heart, fair one' he said dramatically.

'Allow me to apologize' she said dryly.

'Go ahead.'

'I'm sorry.'

'Apology accepted. So I'll see you tonight?'

'In your condition?'

'Why not?'

'You need bed rest and plenty of fluid' she said scowling as she stood up.

'Ami-san!' he protested.

'Humph' she said flicking on the lights. He cried out and shielded his eyes.

'I'm surprised you haven't passed out sooner! You need to take better care of yourself, Zoicite-san!'

'Make me!'

'I will!'

'No you won't!'

'Yes, I will! I'm coming over to take care of you since you obviously aren't adult enough to handle the responsibility!!'

'So then I'll see you tonight?'

Silence.

'Oooh! You!' she said snatching the pillow from under him and hitting him with it. He chuckled.

'I feel better already' he said grinning as she gathered her things. She walked out, nose in the air.

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'Evil, vile creature! You are low! You are the very dust I grind beneath my heels! No Lower! You are an amoeba!!' he raged as he shook his fist at her.

'I'll take your clothing or fur or whatever to the dry cleaners, Artemis. I said I was sorry.'

'Sorry, isn't nearly enough to stem the injury you have caused to my pride. I was pink, Minako. PINK!'

'Calm down.'

'DON'T TELL ME TO CALM DOWN WOMAN!!!'

'That's it. I'm calling Luna. You're not going to scream hysterically at me.'

'NO!!' he howled. 'You will not!!! I will not be nagged today!!! I shall have my say!!! I will speak!!!'

'Kunzite. Care to say anything?'

'Actually. No, Minako. I think I'll let you have this one' he said from the recliner as he read the sports section of the paper.

'Bastard.'

'Indeed.'

'You have shamed me and very lineage! My forefathers would have wept to see me so defiled, Minako!! And you mocked me!! In front of that weakling Alderton-san!!!' Kunzite rattled the newspaper and cleared his throat. Artemis turned on him.

'Well he is! He fainted! You jested at my pain, Minako!'

'What do you want, Artemis?'

'Some salmon, Grade A T-bone steak, caviar, a bottle of well aged shiraz, cream, brie cheese, pears, and an empty apartment.'

'Let's go Kunzite.'

'What!'

'I'm paying for everything, I want you to take a look at my apartment, and I want Artemis to stop talking; he's been shouting for three hours.'

Kunzite folded his newspaper and glared and Artemis smugly folded his arms.

'You touch my katanas and I will murder you in your sleep.'

'No one cares about your silly collection, amoeba man. Now take the amoeba woman and get out' said Artemis glaring back.

'Kunzite' pleaded Minako tugging at his sleeve. Kunzite stalked past her, slipped on his shoes, and slammed the door. Minako looked at Artemis slyly.

'You going to invite Luna over aren't you?'

'Out!'

She giggled and grabbed her purse.

'Humans' said Artemis disgusted as he picked up the phone and dialed Usagi's number.

Minako ran and caught up to Kunzite. Kunzite glanced at her and scowled.

'I can't believe I got thrown out of my own apartment.'

'I owe him though. He had it kind of rough.'

'That's the only reason why I left.'

'Guess what?'

'What?'

'He's inviting Luna over' she said gleefully.

'What!'

'They're not going to do anything!'

'That's my bed, Minako-san.'

'Luna's really old fashioned. I'm telling you; they're not going to do anything. She's still pissed at him for changing into his human form in front of you twice. She wouldn't even look in his direction when she came over last night and Artemis was too scared to come out of the bathroom' said Minako laughing. Kunzite sighed.

'Besides don't you want to take a look at my apartment? We could order in and spend the night' she said smiling coyly. Kunzite eyed her warily.

'I have work tomorrow and don't you have your audition to go to?'

'I'm more than well-prepared. I don't mind having to get up early so you can change your clothes.'

He sighed in surrender. 'Let's go back to the apartment and pack an overnight bag.' She grinned and they walked back.

'I thought I threw you both out.'

'We talked and we've decided to be nice and give you the apartment for the weekend.'

'Did we? For the whole weekend?' asked Kunzite eyeing her. She beamed up at him and winked.

'It's about time you recognize the hardships you put me though' said Artemis loftily.

Kunzite scowled and walked to the bedroom.

'We need to pack. We'll be out of your fur in like ten minutes' she said following after Kunzite.

'Are you mad? If my apartment gets burnt or trashed…' hissed Kunzite as he closed the door to the bedroom.

'It'll be fine; don't worry. It'll be a good chance to get used to my apartment. Okay? Let's keep the peace and make Artemis happy.'

Silence.

'Alright. For you' said Kunzite kissing her. She smiled happily and began to pack.

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'What do you think?'

'I like it.'

'So you'll stay?'

'Yes.'

'Good.'

The doorbell rang.

'Our food is here. I'll be back' she said getting off his chest. She shut the bedroom door, leaving Kunzite alone with his thoughts. It was nice. Her bed was extremely comfortable and the apartment was tastefully decorated. There were no complaints on his part. He could actually see himself living with her. He sighed. I need to work on my thesis, he thought as she came in with the Chinese food they had ordered.

'So are you nervous?' he asked her as they unpacked the food.

'A little' she said tucking her hair behind one ear. She sat crossed legged on her bed and began to eat. Kunzite propped himself on the pillow helped himself on the meal.

'You mentioned earlier that you need help getting into character.'

'Yeah. My script is about a woman whose father gets kidnapped by bandits. Since her brother is off fighting with the men in her dad's army, she has to try to rescue her dad by hiring a bunch of people and they all go off to save him. It's a lot better than it sounds. It's based off of a popular manga series. It's supposed to be a major blockbuster. I'm trying out for the lead.'

'What do you need to know?'

'What were women like in the feudal period?'

They discussed her role until well after dinner. Minako listened and watched him as his short answers became longer sentences. He's really into history she thought as he talked about women's mannerisms and they discussed the character.

'You should write a book' she said interrupting him.

He paused. 'When I finish my thesis, if it's good enough, I hope to turn it into a book.'

'Are you almost done?'

'Not really. My professor threw the fifth chapter into the trash.'

'What! Really?'

'It's normal behavior. It hurt though.'

'I'm sorry. Do you have to start from scratch?'

'No. I still have chapters 1-4. Those were okay. I'm still working on chapter five.'

'Are you done?'

'No.'

'Well what are you waiting for?'

'Eh?'

'You should go work on it.'

'I just ate.'

'That's no excuse! You march in there and type at least a page!'

'Yes m'am' he said saluting her mockingly. She swatted at him and prodded at him until he got up.

'March' she said scowling as he slowly got up and walked to the door. He set up his laptop in the living room and sat at the screen. Half-heartedly, he started to type and after half a page; his fingers began to hit the keys on the computer with more confidence. Minako smiled as she cleaned up the remains of their meal and threw it in the trash. Flopping onto the bed, she pulled out her script and stared at it. She liked this character. There weren't any magic powers for her to work with. She wasn't the smartest person either. She just used her wits and her determination to save her father. It was a dangerous world; she could have been raped, kidnapped, robbed, beaten, or killed, but by using her smarts she got out of dangerous situations. I can be this person, thought Minako, as she sat up and scoured the script.

It was getting late and Minako looked at the clock. Is he still typing, she thought slightly sleepy. She put the script down and went to go check on him. She walked into her dimly lit living room and saw him, still banging away at the keys.

'How's it coming?' she asked him as she sat next to him.

He blinked at her, as if seeing her for the first time.

'What time is it?'

'Time for bed.'

He glanced at the clock in the corner of the computer screen and sighed. He rolled his shoulders and his necked popped.

'Yeah. You're right. I stopped at a good place' he said saving the document on the computer. Minako wrapped her arms around his neck. 'Of course I'm right' she said kissing his jaw line and getting up from the couch. He shut the computer down and sighed. Well, that was relief. He had at least gotten something done, which meant he didn't have to feel too guilty when he faced his professor in the morning. He had a few new ideas too. She helps the creative flow, he thought amused. He stood in the doorway of the bedroom and watched her get her clothes together for tomorrow.

'I got a lot done.'

'Good. So did I. Thanks for your help' she said as she opened the suitcase and pulled out her pajamas.

'No problem' he said as he walked into bathroom. He shut the door and stared at himself in the mirror. Kami, you're doing it again. She's turning your life upside down and you're okay with it. Why are you okay with it? I've known her for about a week and I'm already moving in with her. This is so crazy! He thought as he brushed his teeth furiously. It was when he got into bed that she randomly declared war and began to tickle him.

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'Number 541', said the stage hand tiredly. Minako looked up, as the girl next to her got up and walked through the door that led to the stage. Kami, I'm so nervous. I have to get this part. I have to, she thought desperately. Her leg started shaking and she began to play with her placard. I'm number 542. There's so many I'm up against, but I can do this! She formed her resolve. This would be the career move that would launch her into her dream. Actress and Idol. She would forever be in the hearts of the people of Japan. Maybe her mother would finally get off her case too. She flipped through the script, the sound of the pages soothing her nerves. They were holding the auditions in a theater, which was to her advantage. She preferred the stage to a screen test, that way she could her voice echo in the theater dramatically.

'Number 542' called out the stage hand.

'Here!' she said standing up quickly. The script fell off her lap and onto the floor and she blushed as many pairs of eyes locked onto her picking up the script off the floor.

'Through the door, miss.' She took a deep breath and walked through the door and onto the stage. It was a small intimate setting and she felt much at ease. The stage lights were in her eyes and she couldn't see the faces of the group of nine or ten people seated in the center.

'Name?'

'Aino Minako.'

'Age?'

'Twenty-three'

'Start from page 152. The Parting.' Ah. The parting. This she knew well. She flipped to the section indicated and began to act.

'Haruka. Wait. Don't go' she said taking a step forward and reaching out her hand. She withdrew and held it close to her chest before continuing.

'Please don't do this. It doesn't make sense! It's suicide! At least wait until reinforcements have arrived. My father's men should be coming any day now. You won't make it alone. Don't be stubborn!' She paused allowing a space for the nonexistent person's lines.

'I—I. Because I love you. That's why.'

'Thank you, Miss Aino. We'll give you a call.' Minako whirled around and stared at the group of men.

'I haven't even finished the scene!' she argued passionately.

'We've seen enough, Miss Aino. Thank you.'

Minako turned on her heel and flipped her hair as she stalked off the stage.

'Should I call the next one sir?' asked the man turning to the person next to him.

'I want her.'

'Sir?'

'She's perfect.'

'She's blonde! She doesn't even fit the main character type!'

'Who wrote this series, Hodono-san?'

Pause.

'You did sir.'

'So I would know best as to who would fit the character type wouldn't I?'

'Yes, but…'

'Hodono-san. I have made my wishes distinctly clear. She's indispensable. I don't want to have to look for another director. You will inconvenience me greatly if I have to find a fourth replacement for the directorship of this movie' he continued in a bored tone.

'This series was my vision. I want fresh talent, someone with passion. Not this mealy-mouthed trash that I have seen so far this afternoon. Women nowadays have no fire. They are passive and weak. My character is not. Miss Aino is not. I'm leaving now. If you find anyone else with her fire, let me know, and I'll consider them personally for the part. Don't waste my time, Hodono-san.'

'Ah, yes sir' said Hodono-san breaking out into a sweat.

The man got up from his seat and the cushion thumped back into place. There was absolute quiet as he gathered his coat. He left; his footsteps echoing in the theater. The creator of the series was a perfectionist, an elegant man with exacting standards. Because the series he created was so popular, his opinion was given a lot of weight with the producers. He had so far personally fired much of the staff in the movie and the selection process for the actors and actresses was going slowly. Whispers among the men, who feared displeasing the creator of the series sounded in the theater. Outside the sun shone brightly and he squinted his blue eyes as he walked towards his car. The phone rang.

'This is Jadeite speaking' he said smoothly, as he unlocked the door.

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The apartment was dark and silent as he walked in. The mood was somber and he shut the door quietly not wanting to break the stillness. He unlaced his shoes, slipped them off, and hung up his coat before making his way to the back of the apartment. The bedroom door glided slightly open at his touch and he could barely make out a figure lying on the bed in the darkness. He knelt next to the bed and stroked her hair. He paused. Her cheeks were damp and some of the silken strands had gotten wet.

'I've always wanted to be an actress, ever since I was a little girl. My parents hated me and so I thought that if I became a famous actress, I could get everyone to love me. Even my parents.'

He was silent, taking in her words and the mood, before he spoke.

'I became a historian, for my mother. She's a tea ceremony instructor, a woman who preserves the past and traditions. I thought that if I became a historian and helped to preserve history and tradition. She would be proud of me. But she wasn't.'

He sat through the night with his pain and her pain. Their unspoken words lay in between them and Kunzite shared the acrid taste of failure with her. He was content however, to comfort her as best as he could and without words, for that was the way he knew best.

FIN

Next up! Rei and Jadeite. It will be a continuation of the series and then I can move onto Nephrite and Makoto!! Yay!! And then I can do my other story idea and then the next story idea. And then I'll be done. Unless I have new ideas, of course.