Sailor Moon Fan Fiction ❯ Love Everlasting ❯ The Wedding ( Chapter 2 )

Love Everlasting-The Wedding

Scene 1-Hang Over's

Andrew felt someone shaking him and wondered why they would do such a cruel thing.

“Come on wake up bro.” Andrew immediately thought it was Darien, but upon cracking on eye open, he saw it was his other bro…Alex.

“Damn man, go away.”

“Come on wake your ass up. You've got a wedding in little more then six hours. If you don't show I have a feeling Mina will kick your ass.” Alex said in his subtle southern accent.

“What? What time is it?”

“About 9:45, so get your ass up.” Andrew blinked and sat up and a glass of murky liquid was shoved into his hand.

“What the hell is this?”

“Your friend Darien left two of those on the dresser. With a note that said they should take care of our hangovers.” Alex smiled. “Apparently he's had one or two in his time. So drink up.” Andrew blinked some more. Everything seemed to be happening to fast, he couldn't keep up. He glanced at the dresser and saw one glass still on it.

“Hey wait a minute, you didn't drink yours.”

“Young bro that's because unlike you wimpy Japanese, us American's know how to handle our liquor.” When Andrew just frowned Alex went on. “Besides I figured it might take the both of them to get you into shape. So drink up.” Andrew did as he was told and gulped down the hangover cure, then downed the second one.

“What time did you say it was again?”

“Almost ten.” Now Andrew stumbled out the bed looking wild eyed, and turned around in circles.

“Shit, shit! Mina is going to kill me, where…what. Where is my tux. Oh my God I'm getting married today, what the fuck.” Alex just laughed at the usually composed and laid back Andrew freaking out. Chuckling he grabbed him by the back of the shoulders and started leading him to the bathroom.

 

“You know the note also said that you would start freaking out and to put you in the shower to calm you down. Darien seems to know you very well.”

“Yeah.” Andrew said absently. “He does, Darien's my best bud.” Behind his back Alex didn't try to hide the brief flinch of pain this comment caused him. It only reminded him of all the time wasted between them. He was Andrew's big brother he should have been his best bud. But through the inaction of their parents they had only found out about each other five years ago. Until then they had each thought they were an only child. Since finding out they'd both tried to forge a relationship when ever time permitted. But they were both busy and successful men and time had been in short supply. Well that was then and this was now. He was here now and determined to be the best damn big brother he could be on his bro's wedding day. They were in the bathroom and he turned on the water for Andrew's shower.

 

“Umm you'll be okay to shower by your self right? I mean I don't want you falling and busting your head or anything.” Now Andrew turned and gave him a slight smile.

“Wow, who knew you cared so much. No I should be okay.” Alex nodded and was about to turn away when Andrew reached out and touched his shoulder. “Thanks…bro I appreciate it.” Andrew said with feeling. While Alex had found it easy to throw the term “bro” around with ease, Andrew had not. For so long that term had been for him and Darien, the only brother he'd thought he had. Alex nodded and gave his shoulder a little squeeze.

 

“No problem. That's what family is for.” Fifth teen minutes later Andrew stepped out the shower, a lot steadier and a little more clear headed. Alex had laid some slacks and a tee shirt out for him. He put them on and headed back into the room where Alex was reading a contract.

“There you are. You look much better. Seems like Darien's drink did the job.”

“Yeah I guess. Umm where's my tux? I should get dressed and run to the church.” Alex tossed his contract down, got up and pushed Andrew down on the bed.

 

“Would you relax, it's barely after ten, where do you think your going. And why would you put on your tux this early?”

“Well what the hell am I suppose to do? Sit around here and wait?”
”Exactly. Now you're thinking. Darien's note said to tell you that he was taking care of everything at the church and Lita would taking care of everything here at the hotel.”

“Damn how damn long was this note?”

 

“Hey Darien's meticulously. That's probably what makes him a good doctor. Now just sit back and relax, practice your vows or something.” Andrew had a stunned expression on his face at the mention of vows.

“Yeah I'll just study my vows…shit.” He covered his face with his hands. Alex sat on the bed beside him and sighed. He hoped he never got married and if he did that he didn't act this freaked out.

“Okay what's wrong now?”

 

“I…what the hell happened last night?”

“You don't remember? That's a shame. A guy should have his bachelor party memories for those nights when the wife is getting on your nerves.”

“I might have if you and Darien hadn't been pouring drinks down my throat. I do remember this dark room and a woman…her name was…Delight.”

“Oh yeah, Delight was there and boy was she a delight.”

“What does that mean? I didn't…oh shit Mina really is going to kill me, I'm a dead man.”

 

“Hey relax, it's not what you think…well okay, it kinda is. But you're not married yet so it wasn't adultery and you didn't cheat because well you didn't actually

have sex with her. We'll label it fun okay.”

“You don't understand. Mina has a nose on her like a blood hound, she'll be able to smell the other woman all over me.” Alex found this particularly funny but by the look on Andrew's face he believed what he said.

“Look man we'll make sure to put a lot of cologne on you know relax.” The look of dread on his face had Alex asking a serious question.

“Hey you do still want to get married don't you?”

“What? Of course I do…it's just shit, this is hard.”

“Hard how? You love her don't you? You want to be with her right?”

“Yeah I love Mina with everything I am. She…as weird and wacky and troublesome as she can be…completes me. I think I'd go crazy with out her.” Damn his little bro was really in love.

”Well there you go no prob.”

“You don't understand. When you're in love like I love Mina, it's all consuming. That can be a scary thing. To feel like you can't breathe if the other person isn't there. This is forever…with Mina its forever. I know I love her, I know I need her, but forever is a long time to have this type of love consuming you. I just hope I'm strong enough to handle it.”

“That's deep. And it's all the reason you need to go through with this wedding. You said it, you won't be able to breathe with out her. So you'll just have to be stuck with her for the next 50 or so years so you can live.” They shared a smile and Andrew felt better.

“Thanks man. Look you don't have to watch over me, you can go back to your room and grab some z's if you like.” Alex walked back to his seat and picked up his contract.

“No can do little bro. I was specifically instructed in the letter-“

“Not this damn letter again, what is it a novel” Alex just grinned and continued.

“To not leave your side until the wedding march started.”

“What? Why?” Now Alex pulled the aforementioned letter out of his pocket and unfolded it.

 

“I quote, `stay by Andrew's side until we get him down the alter, just in case by some crazy chance he is stupid enough to try and bolt. Believe me when I say Mina would hunt him down like a bloodhound and kill him. So if you value your brother's life follow my directions. I will see you both at 3:00 sharp. Darien' end quote.” The two brothers stared at each other then bust out laughing.

“See I told you she was a blood hound.”

///

 

Mina woke up in stages. At first she was dreaming that she was waking up. Then she could feel that she was up but her eyes were still closed and she felt as if she was floating. Finally she opened her blue eyes. Her thoughts were fuzzy at first until she remembered what day it was. Like a jack in the box she sat straight up in bed. Today was her wedding day! She looked around to the bedside clock and saw that it was already ten.

“Oh my God I get married in 6 hours! Why in the hell did they let me sleep this late?” She tried to jump out of bed and found the action made her head hurt.

“Damn it! I have six hours till my wedding and I'm fucking hung over!” She whined and fell back onto the bed as tears sprung to her eyes. “And now I'm crying again!” Mina knew she was acting like a ten year old, but her emotions were all over the place. Okay think Mina, take a minute and think. This can still work. You've been hung over plenty of times before and still went in for a shoot the next day. You can get through a little wedding. Just give yourself a few minutes to calm down then get up and call Lita and see where everything stands. God the night of parting came back to her in pieces. They had ended up going to three clubs and two strip clubs.

 

They had pretty much did a club an hour, which in it's self was pushing it, but the clubs had been in different parts of the world! They had taken Ami to her house to put on something a little more club appropriate and then to everyone's surprise Rei had Serena transport them to Paris.

 

They had gone to “La Sheik” an upscale club and wined and flirted with the best of them. Here Michelle had been in her element, so much so she had barely wanted to leave. It was here that they also got a little more buzzed then they already were. Then they had went to a strip club in Canada called “Danny's”. Mina smiled as she remembered the dancer's names like Anaconda, Luscious, and Python. When they had learned that Mina was getting married the next day they invited her to come on stage. Of course she had, and it wasn't to long before Rei couldn't stand the thought of being out done and had jumped up there with her. Ami had been the seemly unwilling participant of a lap dance before they had left. Apparently though she had enjoyed it for she gave the guy a nice tip down his thong before she left. Next they had jetted off to Detroit to a club called “The Candy Bar”.

 

There the men had been so fine they could melt in your mouth. All the girls were being hit on left and right. Rei and Lita actually gave their cards to a few guys. Serena and Michelle flirted like it was going out of style and danced their butts off. When Ami and she had told the men that they were engaged, more then a few had replied “That makes no difference to me.” Ami had been offended but Mina had been flattered. After all it felt good to know she still had it. Next they had went to Puerto Rico to a strip club that you wouldn't be able to find on a map. Rei said she knew of it from a business trip she took down here last year. Ami was so drunk by this time that when the strippers asked Mina to come on stage Ami beat her to it. They had all ended up on stage shaking it or grinding on the naked dancers.

 

The memory had Mina smiling and she slowly sat up. One had actually bent Lita over on stage! And the auburn haired woman had been content to be humped as she swung her head and hair from side to side. When it was time to go they'd had to drag her away. They're last stop had been to one of Rei's and Serena's hot spots in New York. “Mystic” was all the rage. It featured smoke and had mirrors on the walls and ceilings. It was so dark that you could barely see your feet. The only light was at the bar and the blue lights that slowly spun around the room. The waiters all had on 14th century masquerade masks and popped up out the blue, scaring the shit out of you. It was just the kind of place to finish the night off. Where anything you did stayed in the dark. It was very close to four in the morning when they had stumbled into Serena apartment for a moment. Here they had lain sprawled out on her floor. None of them had made it to the couch. Rei, intoxicated but still in control of the party had wearily sat up on her knees and addressed the crowd.

 

“Okayyy you guyyys. “You know the ruleeesss. What goess on at the club stayyys at the club okay.” There were four drunken assurances from the group as Rei continued in her drunken slur. “Okayyy is everyone clear headed enoughhh to transport back?” There were more drunken assurances though Rei didn't look convinced. Seeing as how she was drunk though she had soon shrugged and nodded. “Okayyy then. This party is officially over. Get some resttt, cause we got a wedding to do tomorrowww!” There were some half hearted cheers since most were almost passed out. Rei sneered and transported away. The others roused themselves enough to do the same.

 

Now here she was a mere six hours later with only six hours till her wedding to go. She was glad for the golden party/trip rule, otherwise she would be in some serious trouble. Hell remembering another thing she had did last night, she probably would still be in some serious trouble. In Detroit before she had got too seriously drunk she had went in the bathroom and took the letter out her purse. She had frowned in concentration as she had wrote the name and address on the front. She knew if she spelled it wrong that it might not go where she wanted it to. She had did her best at spelling the difficult word and had had a moment of hesitation. But before she could really think about it the gold envelope had shimmered in her hand and disappeared. The deed had been done. She had sighed and went back out to party. Whatever happened now happened, it was in fates hand. At the end of the night they had all transported back to Japan. Ami had went back to her mothers and Serena had did the same. Rei had gone to the temple. Earlier in the night she said she wanted to wake and have breakfast with Grandpa and do a fire reading to bless the wedding.

 

She assumed Lita had went home and she and Michelle had come back to the hotel. She and Andrew were sharing a connecting suite until after the wedding. She couldn't remember if he had been on the other side of the wall when she got back or not. Most likely she had fallen in the bed and went to sleep. All the evidence pointed in that direction seeing as how she still had her clothes on from last night.

Shaking her head then regretting it, Mina slowly stood up and stretched. Last night had been one of the best nights of her entire life. She hoped Andrew had had as much fun as her. But last night was already in the past, a memory to be revisited from time to time. Today was her present and future. Today she would get married and her life would truly begin.

///

It was around 9:30 when Serena had been awakened only through the smell of breakfast cooking. If her nose was right, and it usually was then eggs sausage and pancakes were being made by the best mother in the world. After grabbing a shower she finally made her way down the stairs. Good lord, it was almost ten and there was so much to do today. But how was she suppose to do it with this pounding head? She had got drunk just like the rest of her friends. Last night had been wild and crazy and just what Serena had needed. A faint blush came over her cheeks as she remembered the strip clubs. It had been a long time since she'd seen a naked man and boy had she been missing out! Shaking the tempting image out her head she rounded the corner to the kitchen and came face to face with her whole family.

 

“Wow, you look like shi-.”

“Sammy watch your mouth. Good morning Serena have a seat.” Ikuko admonished one child and greeted the other. She felt wonderful to be back in her element as referee. With a content smile she went back into the kitchen. With both children grown and so busy this was a rare moment. Serena sat rolling her eyes at Sammy, but she ended up causing more of a headache. Serena's father lowered his paper and gave his little girl a smile and a kiss.

 

“Good morning sunshine. You know you do look a little out of it.” Kenji bellowed in her ear. Serena drew back from the loud sound and slowly placed her head on the table.

“Why gee thanks dad. I really needed that.” He chuckled, so she had a hang over huh.

“I see you have a hang over dear. Would you like me to go make you something for that?”

“Um, I'll be okay dad…I think.” He patted her back and stood up.

“Right, I think I'll go make you something real quick. We can't have you stumbling down the isle messing up Mina's wedding now can we.”

“Gee thanks again dad, I always love your words of encouragement.” She lifted her head and watched as he joined her mother in the kitchen. She sighed and picked up a piece of toast that was already on the table.

“So what time did you get in drunken girl?” Sammy asked.

“Stuff it Sammy. I got in about four I think.”

“Hmm, sounds like a wild night. So what all did you guys do?” Serena finished slowly chewing a piece of toast before she answered. It was obvious her little brother was dying to know what women did on a wild night out on the town.

“Do you really want to know?”

“Yeah!” He almost shouted the word.

“Well, it involved a lot of stripers, a lot of dancing, a lot of drinking, which of course lead to not only dancing but grinding dancing.” She watched as his eyes grew big and she held in her laugh. But Sammy wasn't as gullible as he used to be.

“You're lying! There is now way you're telling me that Ami and even Lita for that matter got that drunk and was dancing like that.” Serena gave him a sly smile and shook her head as much as she could.

 

“Ahh, still so young and so much to learn. Haven't you figured it out yet? It's the quite and down to earth girls who are the freaks. Why Ami and Lita were the strippers two favorite people.” If his eyes widened anymore Serena thought they would fall out on the table. “But that was just the start of the night. We wanted to give Mina a night she would remember since she would be hitched to one guy for the rest of her life. So we went to this hotel…oh I shouldn't be telling you this.”

“No, no keep going.”

“Well…I guess you're old enough to hear it. So we went to this hotel and we had ordered Mina a private stripper if you get my meaning.” With drool in the corner of his mouth he shook his head.

“Yeah I get your meaning. The lucky bastard.” He said dreamily

 

“Well he would have been a lucky bastard but he never showed. Who knows in our drunkenness we might have given him the wrong address. Any way Mina was very disappointed that she wouldn't be having a last rump. So we had to do something to make it up to her. Wow I'm embarrassed to say this but well a lot of women being drunk and alone…turns kind of kinky.”

Sammy was half lying on the table as he tried to get closer to Serena while she was telling the story. As if this would allow him to go back in her memories and see the scene for his self. In a shaky voice that belonged more to a 15 year old then a 19 year old he asked.

 

“What…what do you mean by that?”

 

“Geez, I don't know if I should be telling my brother this, but what the hell. To make a long, embarrassing, passionate, sexual episode short I'll just sum it up. We ended up having a girl on girl orgy to satisfy Mina's perverted needs. Michelle kind of came up with the idea, you know with her formerly begin a lesbian and all. The rest of us went along with it because…well we were drunk and what are friends for?”

 

“Sammy! Why are you climbing over my table, get down. And for god's sake wipe your mouth, there's no need to drool the food is almost done.” Ikuko said as she sat the sausages in the middle of the table. “The pancakes will be up in three minutes I hope you can wait that long.” Sammy was blushing so hard he looked as if he had a high fever. He was mad and horrified that his mother had cut in on the erotic image that had been in his head. Serena was laughing and holding her head. The look on Sammy's face had been worth the pain. Until her mother cut her eyes at her and frowned. “And you young lady shame on you getting drunk! How did you think you were suppose to function today like that?” Serena didn't even try to argue as her mother went back into the kitchen. Serena had only been drunk twice.

 

The first had been right after Rei moved to New York, and they had went out to party. To this day Serena still felt that had been a “get over Chad” night. The second of course had been last night. If she were honest there had been a third, but she tended not to count it. It had been her freshmen year in college and the pain from Seiya's leaving had been very fresh in her mind. Her roommate had gone home for the weekend. But the girl had kept liquor all over the place. Serena had “borrowed” some and been drunk and weepy all night. Sammy was starting to get his voice back and turned to her now with a frown on his face.

 

“You were…uh lying about that right.”

“Just about the whole hotel/orgy part, but everything else was true.”

“Can't believe you made that up. For a minute you had me fooled.”

“Hey don't sweat it. I make up stories for a living, remember. It's my job to make people to believe what I want them to believe.”

Sammy nodded, but suddenly he was very hungry. If he couldn't feed his sexual appetites then he might as well feed his stomachs. Serena ate too, but soon turned back to her brother.

“So how did your hot date go? Did you get any action?” Sammy blushed again and cursed his self. Why was his sister the only person who could break his cool?

“Umm it went okay. I was a little disappointed, I only got to second base.”
“That's not bad for a first date, don't tell me you were expecting to go all the way.” Sammy paused in his chewing and gave her a confused look.

“Well yeah I did. I mean she was a hot chick and it's college.”
“What does that have to do with it.”
“Ah come on. You were in college you know how it is. How you girls get all loose as soon as you leave home.”

“Sammy that is such male thinking. Not everyone does that. I didn't and none of the other girls did either.”

“Yeah right.”

“No it's true. No one got wild like that.”
“Maybe, but the girls do now. I just have to find the right one.” Serena gave him a serious look.

“Are you telling me that's all you want out of a girl. Sex?”

“Well…yeah, for right now. Give me a break Serena I'm a 19 year old guy what else should I be doing?” Serena had the sudden urge to lecture him until his ears fell off. But after some thought, he was right. He was only a half grown male, what did she expect. Still it saddened her.

“What about love? You've ever been in love?”

“Nope, well maybe with Mina.” And sure enough his eyes seemed to glass over.

“Oh brother! Never mind. I guess you should thank your lucky stars for that. On second thought don't thank the stars.” Serena turned away and Sammy knew what she was referring too. Just like back then, he felt impotent to help his sister through a pain that apparently still plagued her. Just then their parents walked back in. Mom had the pancakes and Dad had a glass of the nastiness stuff Serena had ever seen.

“Here you go princess.” He said and sat the concoction next to Serena.

“Um, dad what is that suppose to be.”

“A hang over cure.” He said re picking up the paper. Sammy and Serena arched a brow and looked at each other.

“Uh, dad where did you learn to make that.” Sammy was bold enough to ask. His dad slowly lowered the paper to reveal a smile.

“Why son I was young once to you know. Had some pretty wild times myself. Didn't we hon.” He nudged Ikuko and she giggled like a school girl. Both Sammy and Serena paled at the instant thought that was pushed in their heads. In disgust they both pushed there plates away and declared at the same time.

 

“I'm not hungry anymore.

 

Of course eventually their appetites reappeared and the family had a wonderful breakfast together catching up. Dad's drink had tasted like sewer water but in an hour had did the trick. She spent an hour with her mother, having girl talk. She even helped her do the breakfast dishes, which warmed her mother's heart. Then she had spent time with her Dad. Getting his unwanted parental advice on everything from her career to her non-existent love life. Serena patiently endured it. She didn't visit often and she knew they missed her. Besides it felt good to have her parents worrying over her again. It reminded her of simpler times. She then spent a couple of more minutes arguing with Sammy about what time he should be at the church. It was a little after 12 and she was about to head out.

 

“Well be there no later then 2, just bring your clothes with you. And make sure you keep your cell phone on just in case I need you to bring me something I forgot. Oh and remind mom and dad to get there at 3:30 so they can get a good seat. You know how mom likes to take pictures. And-“
“Alright already I got it. Would you just go already?”

“Okay, I had meant to let you drive me, but I lost track of time, I probably should have been there before now.” Sammy shrugged.

“Hey I'm sure someone would have called you if you were needed.”

“I guess your right. Okay then, I'm off see you later.” She vanished from the room along with her bagged clothes and accessories. The transporting thing still freaked him out. He hadn't seen it but two other times, but still. He went to his room to finish some home work before it was time to go.

///

 

Lita had been up since 8:30. You would have thought with being drunk that nothing could have kept her awake. But this wedding was the wedding from hell and it had kept her tossing and turning all night long. So she had finally given up and just got out of bed. She hadn't went home last night. She and Michelle had been the last to transport from Serena's house. The older woman saw how unsteady she had been and transported them back to her room. She had helped roll Lita onto the couch and had stumbled off to her own bed. She and Amara were sharing a connecting suite. They had sensed the blonde already in bed been when they had entered. Lita had woken up and wrote Michelle a little note of thanks then zapped home. Once there she had taken the pleasure of actually sitting and soaking in a bath. She did this soothing ritual every Saturday night, to celebrate getting through another hectic work week. She had soaked for a good twenty minutes thinking about last night. How pathetic she thought as she remembered throwing her self at every guy. And had she really let that stripper bend her over and hump her like a dog?

 

“Oh the hell with it, that was probably the only hump I'll get this year.” She had said out loud to the lime green colored walls of the bathroom. When she thought about it now she smiled. The guy been seriously hung. He had definitely deserved his stage name “Pleasure You Right.” She had just been drying off when her cell rang. Thinking it was probably Mina she had picked up and was surprised to here Darien's voice on the other end.

 

“Lita what are you doing?” He asked annoyed.

“Well Darien since you asked so nicely I'll tell you. I'm standing naked, dripping water unto my floor because I can't dry off because some jerk called me on the phone snapping at me.” Darien took a moment before speaking since the image popped into his mind. His annoyance left and he smiled at the thought on the tall and curvy Lita dripping wet.
“Well then since your naked I'm not upset anymore.” Lita shook her head and started drying off one handed as she held the phone.

 

“What's up Darien?”

“You mean besides me?” That got a chuckle out of her. He was such the playboy all the time.

“Seriously.”

“Okay, I've been up since 8 and been at the church since 8:30 going over everything. I was waiting for you to pop up.”

“Well whoop dee do for you. Okay sorry that wasn't called for. Look we had a late night and lots of liquor, so I'm running a little behind. I'll drop by the church in under fifth-teen if you let me get dressed.”

“Ahhh you ladies had a wild night huh, what did you do.”

 

“You know I can't tell you that. What goes on at the club stays at the club.”

“Okay, fine that's a good rule if I must say so. Okay I'll see you in a few…and Lita I wouldn't mind if you came naked.”

“I'm sure you wouldn't, but the priest might have an objection or two. Bye Darien.” She hung up and laughed. Darien was such a rascal. She had hurriedly got dressed packed up her dress and the little speech she had written for her toast later that night. She also grabbed her planner which had the number of every outside person involved in the wedding. After getting it all together she transported over to the changing room all the bridesmaids and bride would be using. She put her stuff up and went to find Darien. She had found him talking to the priest. When he finished they went over strategy. She gave him her planner and left it up to him and check and coordinate that everything got were it needed to be. Most of the numbers were programmed into her phone anyway.

“Okay, you handle this and I'll go start making sure the food and reception will be ready, cause once the wedding starts we won't have any time in-between to fix anything.”

”I figured you want to handle the hotel stuff.”

“Well you figured right. Make sure you check on the limos and have them at the hotel at exactly 2:45 to pick up Andrew and Mina and bring them to the church.

“Don't worry I got it.”

“I'm not worried about you, I'm worried about Mina killing us both if things are prefect. I guess she not up yet otherwise I'm sure she'd be driving me crazy calling. Was Andrew up when you left?”

“Nope I left Andrew in the capable hands of his brother.” Lita screwed up her face for a moment. While she didn't have a hangover (she had a high tolerance for alcohol), but apparently she was still a little fuzzy.

“Oh yeah, damn I keep forgetting he has a brother. I should beat Andrew over the head for not telling the rest of us until last year.”
“Hey give the guy a break. At 23 he finds out he has an older brother, it took him some time to believe it his self.”

“Okay I guess, still think it was just a stupid guy thing. A woman would have shared. Tell me are you jealous of him?”

 

“Huh…no why would I be.”

“I don't know. It just that you and Andrew have thought of each other as brothers for so long. It must have been hard on you to realize there was someone else was in the picture.” Darien had waved his hand in dismissal.

“Now see that is a woman's thinking. I'm still Andrew bro, he now just has a blood brother as well. No big deal. Besides Alex is cool.” Lita frowned.

“Well if you say so. I guess he's alright. Kind of arrogant.”

“Your point? So am I.” Lita just rolled her eyes and turned to walk away.

“My point exactly. See you later. You know how to reach me.” She had left and went to the hotel. There she had checked every piece of food that had been prepared the night before. She also had a couple conversations with the management to make sure every thing was in place. It was about 10:15 when her sell phone rang. Thinking it was Darein with some questions she answered sarcastically.

 

“I'm not naked this time so get to the point.”

“Uh thanks for sharing that piece of info.”

“Oh Mina it's you.”

“Who did you think it was? Was I that drunk where I missed the part about you going home with some guy.”

“No I just thought you were Darien.”

“Oh…again did I miss something last night.”

“No silly, I just left Darien at the church and I thought it was him calling to ask me something.”

“Oh…I repeat did I miss something. You were expecting him to ask you were you naked?” Lita sighed with annoyance. Trust Mina to get something in her head and not let it go.

“Just forget about the naked part okay. What do you want.”

“Snappy aren't we…Lita, I just woke up and I'm a mess, can you come over here.” Mina's voice went from flippant to a little girls.

 

“Oh honey of course, I'll be right there.”

“Okay hurry. I think I'm cracking up.” They hung up and Lita titled her head back into a little prayer. Here we go the drama begins. She went to find the elevator and headed up to the suite.

///

 

Rei was tired as hell. It had been a long time since she had partied that hard. To make matters worse she had woke up at 6:10 to prepare for the fire reading. The fire readings were the strongest it they were done with the rising of the sun. Sun rise was expected at 6:27am today. So against the odds and with two hours of drunken sleep, she had pulled herself up. She had quickly washed up in the blessed water that she'd had grandpa prepare for her the previous night. One needed to cleanse the body and mind in order for the vision to come to you.

 

Rei didn't know about her mind but her body was clean enough. She put on her traditional robes and made her way to the fire temple. Once she stepped in she was instantly bathed in sweat. A natural fire was kept burning 24 hours around the clock, so the room was more then a little toasty in June. Stepping to the mat that was only five feet away from the fire she knelt. At the rate of this heat in minutes she would have sweated out any alcohol left in her system. She closed her eyes and focused on making all conscious thoughts leave her mind. After a few minutes with sweat dripping down her face she began the chant that would help further this cause and also invoke the messages from beyond.

 

”Earth, Moon, Stars, Wind, Water, Fire, Earth, Moon, Stars, Wind, Water, Fire.” Over and over she repeated the mantra until it tripped off her tongue without thought. For almost thirty minutes she continued even as visions started to flow threw her head. They were varied and scattered as if the elements didn't want to give up their secrets this day. Among them she saw a beaming Mina and Andrew walking down the isle. She saw a flash of everyone else standing by happy smiles of joy on there face. In another she was Serena standing outside somewhere. A light that had not been in her eyes for years shinning brightly out into the night. But not all the flashes were good. In one she saw Trista walking in a dessert tried and ragged. On either side of her there were signs advertising forms of transportation for free, but she kept on walking alone. Amara had been walking into the sea and she had another face on the back of her head. One face had make up on and the other was plain. The two faces argued on whether or not to drown themselves.

 

Michelle had been dressed as a nurse and she sat in a park drawing blood from her own arm and tried to give it to people. No one wanted it, but still she sucked the blood out of her body until she was an empty shell. In yet another Darien had the most serene smile of joy on his face as he opened his chest with his bare hands in a flash the scene changed to him being eaten from the inside out by some monster that lived in his stomach. There was one for Ami and Lita as well. Ami had stood in a room where replicas of her self kept trying to jump in her body, but the girl kept fighting them away. Lita been in a barren cold place huddled in a ball on the ground. Not four feet from her had been a door of light and warmth, but the woman with all her strength had been to weak to go through it.

 

Through out it all there was this vision of four bright lights. They had no color or shine but she knew that they were insidiously bright. They had seemed familiar and comforting to her, but in the next moment they had seemed threatening. More threatening then anything else she had seen thus far. However it was the last vision that shook her to the core. It had been of herself, standing in front of a long mirror. She had been admiring her self and had blinked only to open her eyes and see a ugly twisted imagine of herself. Blinking again she had seen an old wrinkled and obviously sad version of her self. The next time she had blinked she had saw herself smiling and beautiful filled with joy but then the mirror had cracked into a tiny pieces…or so she had thought. It had really been herself that had broken into pieces. That vision had made her snap her eyes open. As she gasped for breath, she had got up and ran out he door. Only to be greeted by Grandpa holding out a towel to her.

 

“It went well then?”

“I…suppose so. I saw that the wedding would take place, that's what I wanted to learn.” He heard the “but” in her voice.

“But…there was more?” She nodded, she couldn't speak of it right now.

“Little gifted one, you must know by now, that to learn one thing is to learn many.” She nodded again and started to turn away from him. “Will you be joining me for breakfast.”
”No grandpa, I only had two hours of sleep before the reading. I need to get a couple more hours or I'll be dead on my feet.”

“Okay I will wake you later for tee and a snack.”

 

“Thanks.” She had replied and headed back to her room. There she quickly bathed again in the blessed water. This was done to get rid of any negative energy that may have come along with the visions. She washed twice. Afterwards she fell in bed and was out like an light. Until someone came in with a gong and banged it in her ear. She sprung up and was about to let a curse fly from her mouth when she remembered where and who was annoying her. So she settled for something a little less hostile.

“Grandpa! You crazy old man get away from me!”

“Good morning to you to. Tea and lunch will be served in 30.” He grinned and walked out. Rei was left to wish she had it in her to still bash him on the head. Instead she had got up showered for real and packed her stuff for the rest for the wedding, then went and joined Grandpa. They enjoyed a nice lunch and caught up with each other. As they started in on the tea grandpa brought up the reading again.

 

“What shook you about the reading?”

“This and that.” She told him about her visions and was surprised when he just listened so she told him about the ones that had disturbed her the most. “There was this one bad one about Mina. She had on full make and diamonds but was dressed in dirty beggar's clothes sitting on the sidewalk at a corner. She kept holding up these signs. One said “will give up food for work” another said “will do anything if you look and talk to me” the last one said “won't die if you love me.” It was all very strange.” He continued to shake his head.

 

“Then there was this one with sweet little Hotaru. She was in a horror house of mirrors. These mirrors would first show a loving scene with one of her love ones. All of the scouts, then the next mirror would show them dead. The last one was of her father giving her a hug and in the next minute it was a skeleton holding her. I think the worse vision was of Serena though. We all of us the scouts were in the most lush green field. There was a bright sun high in the sky. We were in a circle holding hands and there was nothing else.”

”What do you mean there was nothing else? I thought you said it was about Serena.”

“It was. She was there but she wasn't. We all knew she was suppose to be there in the middle but she wasn't. The sun I told you about gave no heat. It was suppose to but it didn't. The green grass was grey but we all knew it was suppose to be a vivid green, just like we knew Serena should be in the middle of the circle but she wasn't. There was no sound, no flowers or birds chirping, just nothing. Just us the scouts…with no Serena. Then as one we looked to the middle again and saw that where she should have been standing was a pile of ashes, with the moon cresant on top. It was horrible grandpa, can you tell me what any of them mean?” He was quiet for a while then he finally answered.

“Well the last one is obvious. Without Serena the world is incomplete…the world would be devoid of real light, real color, real anything.” Rei felt like an idiot. When her grandpa said it, it all clicked and made absolute sense.

 

“What about the rest? Do you know what those mean?” He stood up and smiled down at her.

“The question is do you? Yes I know what they mean, there all very obvious.”

“Well not to me.”

“Maybe you don't want them to be.”

“Just tell me old man, so I'll know how to help.”

“No. I'm disappointed in you. You haven't learned yet that not all visions are meant for you to change. Some will come to pass and others will not. Your powers must be getting weak. You should have stayed here and became a priestess instead of some cushiony office job.” Rei rolled her eyes as he babbled on. Once he got on her career choice and he could talk about it for hours.

“Grandpa could you get back to the visions please?” Rei asked with supreme patience.

“Oh…right where was I. Yes, these bad visions were clearly metaphor visions. Visions of things the person must endure or learn. Depending on how they handle their trial will decided whether or not something good or bad comes out of it. They were visions of trials that that apparently you all must face.”

“Hmmm, you said just the bad one's are metaphor visions why not the good one's two.”

“My god child, have you forgotten everything I taught you. I should make you quit that job and come back and study under-“

“Grandpa!” He huffed at being cut off.

“Simple. The good visions were just that. A vision of things that will come to be. In a metaphor vision you have various options. Take Hotaru's. The happy memories the said memories, those are choices. Lita in a cold place, when a warm place is merely feet away from her. Choices. Mina, rich and made up, or poor and begging for the things she really needs. More choices. They aren't literal choices. It doesn't mean if Mina chooses the side that is rich she really will be rich. Or if she decides to go for the things she really needs she will end up poor and begging. That is why they are called metaphors. On the surfaces they have clear choices or variations of what could be. Deeper is where the real meaning lies. Do you understand?”

 

“Yes, I do. I want you to tell me what the deeper meanings are and why wasn't the last one about Serena a metaphor also.”

“You still don't listen to me. You don't need to know what everyone's metaphor means. Focus on your own for that's what's important. Everyone else will have to handle their own trial. Nothing you do will change that. As for Serena…hers was a path vision. The last vision you saw was one of the two end results to a path she must take. If she takes the path that leads to that vision then the world will be void.”
“Okay…but I didn't see the other end result for the other path why not?”

“Well that could be for two reasons. One is that the other path' end result is even worse then the one you saw, so the vision was showing you the best out of the two. Or the other path's end result is more positive and your vision just wanted to show you the worst that could happen.”

 

“Well that's no help. Not clear at all.”
“If the fire readings were clear and extra helpful then everyone would do them. I think they gave you more then enough, I just think your two pigheaded to listen.”

“Humph. Well when is all this going to happen, these trials? And should I tell each of them about their metaphor vision.”

 

“Rei Hino you are starting to get on my nerves. Things will happen when they happen. Could be today, tomorrow or five years from now. And I didn't I just tell you that nothing would change their trials or yours from coming. The only thing your telling them could do is possible change the final outcome and probably not for the better. They must face it when it comes, and what will be, will be. Now I'm through talking to you, don't you have a wedding to get to?” He tuned his back and tossed something other his shoulder. While her vision interpreting skills may have been rusty her reflexives were not. She caught the object and frowned.

 

“Grandpa, this is your shark's teeth necklace.”

“I know what it is. I'm lending them to Mina. Tell her to wear them today. They stand for longevity and renewal.” He was already rounding the corner. Rei tucked the precious gift in her slacks and headed to her room. It was almost 12:30. Grandpa was right. There was nothing she could do about any of the visions. At least she knew that Mina would get married today and that would have to be good enough. Pushing the vision's out of her mind for closer review later she focused on the upcoming wedding.

///

 

Darien was taking a mini break. It was closing in on one o'clock and Lita, Serena and Rei had showed up in the last hour. As long as all players were here and ready to go by three everything would be fine. He had been running non-stop on only four hours of sleep. He and the guys had gotten in around four. The hours really didn't bother him, he'd had less as an intern. Some of his operations were eight hours of intense concentration. This had just been a little more then 5 hours of hard parting. They had started with a couple of regular clubs and had danced hard and long with the beauties. Their third hang out had been your standard strip club complete with poles and all. Darien had arranged for more of Andrew's school friends and ex co-workers to meet them at the place. “Sinful Treats” had been the name of it. Darien smiled and leaned back in the wood chair as he remembered. He was hidden in the men's dressing at the church for a little privacy. At the club Andrew had been treated to two lap dances while enjoying the show.

 

Alex he found had no trouble getting into the swing of things and had helped one dancer with her pole routine. Only Roger had seemed a little out of place. But he had quickly warmed up when Darien had bought him some drinks and a lap dance. Darien had been paying for rounds the whole night and kept them coming.

It was two am when they left and Darien let everyone think the night was over. But when it was just the four of them in the car he gave the drive some complicated directions.

“Hey bro I thought we were going back to the hotel?” Andrew had gotten out even as Darien handed him another drink form the limo's bar.

 

“I told the other guys that so they would go home. The next place were heading is just for us groomsmen. Boy is Chad going to be mad he missed this.” They had driven for a while taking multiply twist and turns. When they arrived they were in a dark dead end alley, next to what looked like an deserted warehouse. They had wobbled out the car and Darien had told the driver where he could grab a bite to eat and park to wait on them. Left alone in the alley Darien turned to the others with a big grin on his face.
”Pardon meee, but can I be so bold as to say we're in a shit holeee.” Alex had drunkenly said, his southern accent being more pronounced when he was drunk.

“No my drunk friend. We are at one of the kinkiest, most secret sex spas in Japan.” Darien had countered. They all looked around and eventually Andrew asked the question they all wanted to know.

 

”Um, bud, where?”

“Right behind you.” They faced the building and all they saw was an old door with a wooden X on top painted dull red. They were puzzled and asked how he had found out about the place.

“Trust me you don't want to know.”

As he sat in the church he wondered if it was sinful for him to even have these memories.

 

“Oh well you only live once.” In truth he had found out about the place from one of his American doctor friends. The guy had been in Japan assisting with separating twins joined at the brain. The surgery had been a grueling 14 hour procedure. Afterwards the doctors had asked him did he want the ultimate relaxation massages. Of course he had said yes and boy had he been surprised when the massages had included “other services”. Now he remembered his comrade's faces as they had walked in.

 

Darien had knocked the secret knock and the door had opened. While the outside looked like a peace of crap the inside was plush. The whole front room was bathed in subdued red light. There were read and black cushioned couches all over the place. A headmaster walked up to greet them, after they were checked by security.

“May I help you gentlemen?” The man said in Japanese.
”Yes I'm Darien Chiba I talked to you on the phone a couple of minutes ago.” Darien replied in kind.

“Oh…yes welcome Mr.Chiba. Want can we start you off with?”
”We'd like to go to the general room first.”

 

“Right this way.” They were led to another room off to the side were about 25 men stood talking, eating or where engaged in a service. They took a table next to the center piece of the room.

“Is that what I think it is, or am I just extra drunk.” Roger had asked, eyes almost coming out of his head.

“Yes my man.” Roger had been referring to the center piece of the room. “That is a beautiful naked woman covered with sushi for you to eat.” The woman lay motionless on the black marble table as a couple of men filled their plates from her body. Already most of her breasts and one leg had been cleared of the fish. Alex had noted that everyone was speaking Japanese so he directed his next question at Darien in his second language. Even drunk he had no problem slipping in to it.

 

“I've heard of this but never thought I would see it. What happens when the last piece of fish is eaten?” Darien had been surprised and impressed that Alex spoke Japanese at all.

“Well the last person to take the last piece must, lick the plate clean if you get my drift.” They all chuckled but Roger was looking around as if he was in the twilight zone.

 

”You know guys maybe I should go home. I think I'm a little to old for this. Plus I'm not sure if I'm this kinky. Besides I still have to work with Andrew. There's some things you just don't want to know about another man.” They had tried to convince him to stay but he was adamant. Darien however wouldn't let him leave until he had had a massage. So he had led him to a station along the wall were a woman waited. After assuring Roger that all he would get was the best massage of his life and nothing sexual he went back over to join the others. He hadn't lied to Roger, this was called the “general” room for a reason. If you wanted more specialized services you went downstairs. When Roger was finished Darien called the limo to take him home. While they waited they had all had a little sushi. Once Roger had left, Darien had taken them down stairs so Andrew could have his preplanned surprise. When they had been ushered into the dark room, Delight, Pleasure and Ecstasy had been waiting on them. Again Darien remembered he was in a church and snapped out of his wonderings

 

“Yep they had certainly been a delight and pleasure to get to know them, but the ecstasy had been all ours.”

“Darien what the hell are you babbling about.” Startled by Rei's voice he fell to the floor in the tipped back chair. “Get off your ass. Lita said there's some problem with the limo being on time and she wants you to take care of it.” He picked his self up and brushed off his pants.

“Hey were in church you can't cuss.” Rei rolled her eyes and shook a fist at him.

“Look I spent all morning not cussing at the shrine and dealing with a crazy old man. God will just have to understand. Now move your ass.” He walked to stand face to face with her in the door way and in a low voice said.

“Ohhh I like it when you talk dirty to me, do it again.” All he got was a shove down the hall as he laughed.

 

Scene 2-Crunch Time

Hotaru waited patiently as the time went by. She had gone to bed at 6 in the morning and had woken refreshed at 10:30. She guessed it was youth that gave her the ability not to need that much sleep. Anyway, she had gotten her dress and shoes together and was ready…but she had to wait. Unlike most teenagers she didn't mind waiting it was just part of life. Today she wore no eye earring and her hair was lightly curled to form waves down to her shoulders. Her dark eyes looked up at the kitchen clock and saw that it was time. She got up poured a cup of hot black coffee and in bare feet took the stairs to the first bedroom to the right off the landing. Opening the door she saw her mother still twisting and turning.

 

Hotaru didn't know what time her mother had got in, since she herself had been roaming the streets of Tokyo, but even if it was late her mother shouldn't have been sleep. Since she had come live here Trista had never stayed in the bed past 9:30 unless she was sick. It was going on 12:35 and she knew her mother wasn't sick. Setting the coffee down she gave her mother a firm shake to wake her up.

Trista felt the shake but resisted waking up. Though her dreams were not pleasant she needed to understand what they meant. Finally the feelings and emotions slipped away and she slowly opened her eyes.

 

“Come on mom wake up, it's after 12:30.” That got her groggy attention and she blinked at the slim girl standing over her.

“Huh, 12:30 why didn't you wake me up.” Hotaru sat on the side of the bed as her mother pushed her self into a sitting position. Hotaru gave her the mug of coffee and earned herself a grateful smile. She didn't return it, but instead looked at her mother in concern.

 

“I thought you needed your rest. When I checked on you the first time you were murmuring in your sleep and tossing…what's wrong?” Trista sipped her coffee and stalled for time.

“I feel fine if that's what you're asking. I had a late night is all?”

“Umm hmm. Look I know something been bothering for a while now, I can feel it. You've been all tense and preoccupied. I just didn't know it was so bad that you can't sleep.” Trista sighed in resignation. She should have known she couldn't keep anything from her. The teen was to perceptive for that.

 

“Your right, I have been preoccupied…but it's nothing to concern your self with.” She saw Hotaru about to protest and smiled at her. “Seriously don't worry, I'm not sick and I'm just a little stressed with work. You know the fall semester will start in a couple of months so much to do.”

“But mom,-“

“No buts, is your stuff ready for today.” Hotaru knew she was putting her off and didn't like it.

“Yeah, it's packed and already in the car. I was just waiting to wake you up. Can we talk about-.” Trista cut her off again and gave her a shooing motion.

“Well get out of here and let me get dressed for goodness sake.” When Hotaru hesitated she threw the light blanket aside and started getting up. “Go, I should have been up and ready.” Hotaru rarely argued with her mother about anything, so after another moment of hesitating she got up and walked out the door as her mother headed to the shower. She closed the door gently behind her extremely worried. Her mother had just lied to her for the first time she could ever remember.

/

 

Trista felt cold under the hot spray of the nossol. She had just lied to Hotaru and she didn't feel good about it. She had told the truth about being stressed with the upcoming fall semester and she had also told the truth about going to bed late. True to her word Amara came over after dinner to talk. They had caught up with each other and talked about old times. Hotaru had hesitated to tell her about her time premonition but felt that she needed to tell someone. She had told the often serious woman her concerns for the future and more importantly to the upcoming wedding. Amara had listened solemnly and as expected had asked many questions to which Trista had no answers. After some discussion they had decided that it was best to keep it to themselves for now and they would both keep an eye out at the wedding. She had went to bed at 1:30 exhausted. She had hoped her emotional state would let her have a dreamless night.

 

Instead this had been the worst one yet. Just as Hotaru had woke her up she felt sure that she was on the edge of understanding something. As she dried off she frowned. One thing had been showed to her. She now knew that the time line had been changed, but what or who she couldn't say. It could have been something little or big she had no way of knowing. A pity people didn't understand that for every action we take it leads us down a path. She would just have to be extra alert today, though she didn't know how much help she would be. She was only armed with the knowledge that something had changed and that it affected all of the scouts in one way or another. By the time she had dried and styled her long hair it was closing in on 1:30. She hurriedly packed her matching dress that she had to wear for the wedding. Mina had insisted that all the scouts where bridesmaid dresses she had said something like, “All of you guys are my family, my sisters I want you all to be honored by being a part of this wedding.” Trista had complied. She figured if Amara could wear a fancy dress so could she. She grabbed her stuff and went down stairs.

 

“Okay Hotaru I'm ready.” Hotaru came out the living room as her mother came down the steps.

“Are we leaving now?”

“Of course.”

“Why? I don't have to be there until 3.”

“Because they might need our assistance with things. Besides if we get there extra early as least we know we'll be there.”

 

“We can always just teleport.” Trista frowned at the girl. She had told her that teleporting wasn't to be done just for the hell of it. She didn't think Hotaru did it often but still. Not that it really mattered. The other had probably been teleporting all over the place these last couple of days.

“No I think we'll drive now come on. By the time we get there it will be two o'clock.” Hotaru resisted rolling her eyes and started walking for the door. Trista watched the agitated youth walk to the door and wondered at her attitude. By the time she followed Hotaru was opening the car door. Trista turned to lock the door and rolled her own eyes.

“Great! I see it's going to be one of those days.”

///

Across town an hour ago Ami had been thinking the same thing, as she heard the door to her bed room slam.

“Oh my god mother, could you please not make so much noise.” Ami pleaded covering her head with a pillow. Kirara Mizuno just shook her head at the intoxicated girl and pulled the pillow away.

 

“No I will not. Now Ami Mizuno get up right now. It's 12:30 for god's sake. It's not my fault that you got drunk last night and came in extra late and-.” As her mother continued to list her wrongs Ami breathed in a deep breath. She slowly sat up and threw back the covers, putting both feet on the floor, anything to make her mother shut up.

“There are you happy now mother I'm out of bed.” Her mother drew her eyebrows together and gave Ami a stern look for her flippant remark. As always it worked and Ami ran a tired hand threw her hair and murmured an apologetic “sorry.” Her mother simple stood up.

 

“Save your sorry for your friends. I'm sure you'll have a lot of explaining to do when you're late to the wedding.”

“Huh?” Ami said looking around for a clock and seeing the time her eyes got wide.

“Shit it's going on one!” Ami exclaimed getting out of bed and searching for clothes.

“That's what I was trying to tell you.”
”Why didn't you wake me up when you went to work?” Now Kirara put her hands on her hips and glared at her 23 year old daughter. She hoped she didn't get drunk often if this is the way she acted.

 

“Look, for one, you're a grown woman who gets up extra early everyday, so why should I be your alarm clock. Two I did try to wake you up but you were dead to the world.” Ami looked on shamefully and uttered a feebly “Oh”, but her mother wasn't through. “I'll also have you know I came back on my lunch to make sure that you were up and to remind you to take Mina's present with you. I'm glad I did otherwise you might have slept through the wedding.” Ami ignored her mother's last dig and focused on something else she had said.

“Why am I taking Mina's present? Aren't you coming to the wedding or did your shift get changed.”

”No, I'm coming. But you know how it is, never can tell, might now get there until the reception. If that's the case you know I'll be rushed and I didn't want to forget her present.”

“Oh well no problem, I'll make sure to take it.” Ami turned from her mother's searching eyes and didn't see her frown and walk closer until she felt the hand on her shoulder.

“Ami…are you okay? I know you're grown…but it's not like you to be so out of it. Is everything all right…you know between you and Marc” Ami turned around surprised that her mother was concerned and surprised that she thought it had anything to do with Marc.

 

“No mother, every things fine with us. I'm pretty sure he called last night….not sure what I said to him, but we're fine. Look I'm sorry I worried you. Me and the girls just got a little to wild last night, you know how it can be.” Ami seemed to remember who she was talking to and smiled sheepishly. Her mother laughed and gave her a quick hug.

“Yes I do remember what it is like. Remember I was your age once too. Anyway I'm glad everything's okay, you can always come talk to me if you need to.” She let Ami go and headed to the door. “I have to go, don't forget to take the gift and if I can't make the wedding I'll call.” And like that her mother was gone. Ami sank back down on the bed and played absently with her wedding ring. Her mother was right. It wasn't like her to lose control like last night.

 

She didn't know what had come over her. In a way it had seemed as if it was her last night of freedom too. Looking at the ring she sighed and got up. Never mind the reason, she couldn't let Mina down. Heading to the bathroom she thought about her own wedding. She needed to call Marc as soon as she got out the shower, who knows what she had told him when she was drunk. Putting the thought out of her head she undressed and turned on the water. If she hurried she could be at the church by 2:30 latest.

///

Amara sipped her orange juice and read the paper. She had been up since 9 and had gone down to the work out. Now she sat in her room relaxing as the morning went by. She really wasn't reading the paper her mind was wondering to what Trista had told her last night. She couldn't help feeling concern since the wedding was hours away. She smiled ruefully…this wedding was going to be interesting. She looked over to the bed where the dress she would have to wear lay. Damn why had she agreed to do that. They were all wearing the same dress even Hotaru and Trista but it was to sexy for her. The bridesmaid's dress was a pale rose red, strapless and made of satin that came down to the ankles.

 

It was tapered and fit to shape each person's body. It also had a foot long slit going up the right leg. Also along the right side from the bodice to the slit ran nine tiny white hearts. A pair of long sleeved white satin gloves and two and half inch red pumps would finish off the simple dress. For the last three years she had been dressing more feminine when she had a reason too. Softer shirts, more flattering slacks even long skirts from time to time. But nothing that sexy. She knew she wouldn't be comfortable in something so clingy. Hell and those heels, damn it! Fuck it she had promised so she would.

 

Her thoughts turned back to Trista's warning. A threat was coming…from where? Shit, after so many years of peace…eight to be exact, she felt as if they wouldn't be ready for another enemy. It disturbed her most that Trista was only was getting emotions, no visuals. Amara didn't like an enemy she couldn't see. She decided to take Trista's advice…and just wait. She would be on high alert tonight and planned on warning Michelle to be the same. That is when the other woman decided to wake up. Amara was taking her orange juice in the common room and had seen the note Lita had left. Amara smiled then snapped the paper shut.

 

“Were you girl's naughty last night?” She thought out loud to herself.

“I hope so…at least this headache I have, would be worth it.” Amara turned to look at Michelle as she stumbled out of her bedroom still dressed in the same clothes, hair tossed and messy. To Amara she looked sexy.

 

“Ah, you're finally up and it's only 11.”

“Is that it? I can get another couple of hours in.” Michelle said only half way joking.

“No can do. Come join me, I have something to share with you.”

Michelle frowned…she didn't know what Amara had to say but hoped it wasn't about them. She didn't feel like talking about that old subject again.

“Amara…I'm really not in the mood-“

“Neither am I, but I think it's something you should know…it's scout business.”

“Oh.” For a moment Michelle was speechless. It had been a long time since she had heard that phrase `scout business'. She went to the little dinning table and took a seat.

“What is it?”

Amara looked at the concern on her face and hated that she had to be the one to put it there. So for the next 15 minutes she told her what Trista had told her.

 

“Well what do you think?” Michelle asked when Amara was finished.

“I think if it has Trista this worried then we should be worried too.”

“I see…has she told the others?”
”She hasn't told Hotaru even though the girl knows something is going on. Nor has she told Serena or the others.”

“Okay…so I guess all we can do is be extra alert. Damn Mina was so happy yesterday…I hope nothing ruins this wedding for her.”

“Me either…we'll just have to make sure nothing does, and that nothing gets to the princess.”

 

“Right. Let me grab a shower and get dressed. When I come out I'll look in my mirror.”

 

Scene 3-Late Invites-Kimonski-9:30am

 

Seiya had woken up at 9. He wasn't sure when he had fallen asleep but apparently he had. Now he sat out on the princesses' main terrace and waited for the others to show up. He hadn't touched any of the fruit and morning pastries a servant had brought out upon his arrival, he wasn't hungry. He sat looking threw the elegantly craved railing trying to decided if he would share the note he had in his pocket. Six years ago he had kept an important letter secret and it had cost him greatly? Would he do the same thing now? What were his other choices? He would share it and then what would happen? He wasn't stupid he knew one letter couldn't wipe the past clean, but he also knew one letter could change the future. What would he do?

 

“Seiya…I see you've beat us this morning.” He turned around at Kukyuu voice and watched as she followed by Taiki, Yaten and Paris walked towards him. He stood up as his princess approached but didn't answer her comment. Paris smiled and tried to catch Seiya's eyes, but he seemed to be avoiding her this morning and his face was very serious. Had she done something wrong, she thought as she pulled out a chair for the Princess.

 

“Thank you Paris. Seiya are you all right?”
”Yes…sorry I just had a long night.” Yaten and Taiki smiled at each other thinking that Seiya meant he'd had a long night with Paris. They looked over at the young woman but saw that she had a slight frown on her face, which made them frown. So Seiya had not been up having that kind of long night? They all settled around the table. The Princess and Seiya on one side and Yaten and Taiki on the other as Paris stood behind the princess.

 

“Very well then. I hope all of you are well on this beautiful morning. Let's get started on the briefing and make it quick. I want to go around the country side and talk with the people today. It's so nice I feel like being out and about and social.” They nodded and Yaten started since he'd had the first shift. It quickly came to Taiki's turn and the report was done.

 

“Good, as always I am glad when everything is quite. Is there any other important news that I should know about, if not we can adjourn.” Yaten and Taiki shook their head in the negative but Seiya's mouth only tightened. Finally he turned to the princess and made a request.

“I have something princess, but I would prefer to share it with just the four of us.” His meaning was clear to all and Kukyuu frowned as Paris stiffened behind her.

 

“Paris could you please wait for me in my chambers. I'll be along shortly to change so we can go out.” Paris stomped down on her rising temper. She had often been told that she needed to control it.

 

“Yes princess.” She got out without it sounding to forced and bowed to her lady before quickly making her way out. Closing the terrace doors behind her. The rest set in silence for a couple of seconds before Kukyuu spoke.

 

“Seiya….must you be so blunt all the time. I think you just hurt Paris's feelings.”

“It was necessary.”

 

“Seiya what could you possible have to say that Paris couldn't hear?” She's my chief lady in waiting, it's rare that I keep things from her.”

 

“I know.” Was all he said and the others sat there waiting on him to continue. Taiki leaned back in his chair and pinched the bridge of his nose. He didn't wear glasses here. Truth be told he had never needed them, they were just a prop on earth. He didn't like Seiya's mood, or his sudden need for secrecy. Before he could comment on it however Yaten took care of it for him.

 

“Just spit it out Seiya, no one has all day.” Seiya looked at his two best friends. They had been through a lot together, especially these last six years. Without the two sitting across form him he wouldn't have made it. Now he was again bringing disarray to their lives. After a moment he turned from then and aimed all his attention to his princess who was waiting patiently like always. Making his face and voice more emotionless he finally spoke.

 

“Princess you may chose to share this with Paris or not. But I thought it best that I share it with you three first.” He brought out the gold envelope and placed it directly in Kukyuu hands. She looked at the front and her eyebrows rose. Quickly but not to seem in a rush she took the letter out and read it to herself. The other two Starlights looked on curiously. It was just a letter, what was the big deal? They hadn't seen the front so they waited knowing that the princess would share it with them. After she was done she folded the one page letter but didn't put it back in the envelope. She lifted her head and her eyes were sparkling.

 

“Well I think it's wonderful! How about you Seiya.” He didn't respond and she didn't expect him to for she never even looked at him. “I guess we should see what you two think.” She pushed the folded letter over the table and Taiki picked it up, holding it so both he and Yaten could read it.

Dear Seiya, Yaten, Taiki and Princess Kukyuu

It's me Mina! I'm writing because I'm getting married…to Andrew! Can you believe it?

Any way sorry for the late notice, you know me scattered brained as usual.

Time: June 30th 4pm

Place: Church of Faith

1745 Downtown

Attire: Formal

Reception: To directly Follow service

Place: The Regency Hotel (three miles south from the church)

I would love for you all to come. It would make my day perfect.

The night's light has become very dull

I was hoping with your presence it would shine again.

P.S. We've missed you guys. If you do come can you bring me a wedding gift?

It would be so neat to get a gift from another planet.

Love Mina/Sailor Venus: The Sailor of Love and Beauty

They stared at the letter in disbelief for a moment. Then Taiki dropped it as if his hands were on fire, leaning back in his chair his face showing shock. Yaten face was red and he balled up his fist.

 

“So what do you two think? Should we go?” Kukyuu asked.

 

“Hell no! I don't know what Mina was thinking. I mean…why would we want to see her get married.”

 

Kukyuu nodded reading in-between Yaten's comments.“What about you Taiki? Did you know about this from one of Ami's letters?”

 

Taiki blinked. He hadn't told them that Ami's last letter had been six months ago and she hadn't sent a letter three months ago like she was suppose to.“No. I…well it was nice of her to think of us. And it's wonderful that she's getting married. I don't see how we can possible attend though.”

 

Kukyuu nodded again also reading between what he said and what he felt. Finally she turned back to Seiya. “So Star Fighter…what do you say.”

 

“I don't really care, I just thought I'd share it. Since it was sent to you.” The princess picked up the envelope and slid it back to him.

 

“No Seiya it was addressed to you.” She said with meaning in her voice.

 

He shrugged as if he could care less, all the while his heart raced. “It is…interesting.” He finally commented.

 

They all tried to read his expression but that was all he would say. Kukyuu nodded. She knew none of them would say they wanted to go back, but she knew that Earth still held many things for each of them. She understood that they were afraid to go back and stir up the pain and memories. But you couldn't avoid the unpleasant things in life. Besides a friend of theirs was joining her life with another and wanted them to be a part of that. Besides Princess Kakyuu worried about Serena. She had hoped and prayed that the Princess of the Moon had fared better then Seiya had over the years. With that in mind she came to a decision.

 

“Well, it is a wonderful day for a wedding if their weather is anything like ours. I think it would be wonderful to visit and join Mina on this blessed occasion. I told you I was in a social mood today.” She stood up smiling and they followed suit. “Besides I really do like wearing earth clothes! It's 10:15 now, I shouldn't need that long to find one appropriate dress and get ready. We'll leave with-in the hour. Meet back here and we'll depart.” She begin walking out the door and Yaten frantically tried to think of something to stop this.

“Princess…there's no need for Taiki and Seiya to go me and Paris can go with you. After all we don't want to leave the planet defenseless.” Now she stopped and turned back to face him.

 

“Non-sense Yaten, we have been peaceful since our rebirth, and I sense nothing in the air but good will. Besides we'll only be there for a matter of hours I really think the planet will be fine. We have other warriors now…I think you all should come, I'm sure everyone will look forward to seeing you. However Yaten is correct in that if anyone does not want to go they don't have to, though I should be escorted by my protectors. Now if you excuse me I must go prepare time is short. Oh Yaten can you pick out a suitable gift for Mina…you know her best.” She walked out the double doors and went down the hall to her chambers. Yaten let his fist un-ball and turned to look at his two friends, he had been trying to protect. Taiki's face had closed down and Seiya's was as unreadable.

“The Princess is right…we are her protectors. Be ready to go before the hour is up.” Seiya said quietly and quickly left the room.

 

Yaten felt a hand slap his back and looked at Taiki who was also watching Seiya leave.

“Hey thanks Yaten…but don't worry, everything will be okay. It's just a harmless wedding.” Taiki walked away and had made it to the door before Yaten replied to him.

 

“Hey wait, what in the hell should I get Mina?” Now Taiki turned and gave a real smile.

“How the hell should I know? Like the Princess said you know her best.” Turning he disappeared leaving Yaten with his mouth open.

///

aiki went about looking through his earth clothes on automatic. He kept them in the very back of his closet. Eventually picking out a sedate suit of white with blue woven in. He didn't really care what he wore he wasn't really thinking. Laying out the clothes he went over to a dresser and pulled open the bottom draw. Under a pile of rarely worn slacks he pulled out the frame. The first three years the frame had sat out where he could see it. But time had proved that it was better if he kept it away. Now he laid it on the dresser and traced the pencil drawn face with his fingertips. How many nights had he started at the pink lips and purple butterfly before he had went to bed? Finally he would see the face in person again.

 

Would it have changed? He didn't know but was eager to find out, his had. He looked in the mirror at his chopped brown hair that only came three inches down his back in a low ponytail. His face had become broader and he sported a trimmed mustached on his wise face. He had also become more buff though his muscles were easily hidden under clothes. Would Ami even recognize him? He propped the frame up and left it sitting on the desk. Grabbing his clothes he went to dress for the trip to Earth.

///

 

Yaten cursed his bad luck with picking out Mina's gift. He transported back from the shop were he had purchased it to his room. “Shit, what a day this is turning out to be.” He knew nothing about picking out gifts much less wedding gifts. He didn't know if his gift was appropriate or not, but from what he knew of Mina he had picked it out, so they would all just have to live with it.

 

He couldn't say that he was seriously mad he wasn't. He didn't have past loves he didn't want to confront waiting on him back on Earth. He was concerned however for his two friends. Seiya was doing his colder then usual routine today and that wasn't a good thing. And Taiki bless his soft heart probably was telling his self right now that going back wasn't a big deal for him either, but that was a lie. Yaten had started to have hope for both of them that they would forget Earth and move on and now this. Over the last couple of years Seiya had let Paris get closer to him. He had hoped that one day soon they would have a real relationship. However he could see from his treatment of her earlier that there was only one woman on Seiya's mind and it wasn't Paris.

 

He picked out a suit of pale yellow with white lapels and picked up Mina's wrapped gift heading for the door. Well at least I'll get to see the others. Ami's letters kept them informed but there was nothing like seeing someone for yourself. He looked forward to seeing his old friend Amara again. He bet she hadn't changed. The thought comforted him, since so many things around him had changed in the last six years.

///

 

Seiya had entered his room, only to stare at the walls before making his way to his bedroom. He picked out a black suit with red that fitted his mood and threw it on the bed pacing the enclosure. He went to his dresser for some cufflinks and opening the box saw the backside of the two way mirror. He hadn't looked in it in two years. The last time he had seen Serena sleeping over a computer as she probably typed one of her books. A little fur ball of a cat sleeping on her neck. He knew if he looked in it now he would probably see her getting ready for the wedding. He knew she would be a part of it. In the ceremony, after all Mina was one of her closest friends. He knew when he went to earth today he would see her.

 

Would he see what Mina had written in her letter? Would the light be dull? He could not imagine her light being dimmed by anything. Not that it mattered, Serena was a grown woman responsible for herself. He caressed the back of the mirror wanting badly to pick it up then he snatched his hand away.

“No, I won't do this to myself. So much time has passed…it's over between us. Surely she hates me and our love has died. I am simply going to fulfill my duty to the princess.” He pulled out the cufflinks then closed the lid, walking out the door to meet the others.

 

Scene 4-Something Old something Borrowed something Blue

At 2:45 the limo pulled up to the Regency hotel. Darien stepped out to go get the bride and groom and other assorted people that the party needed before it could start. He had on his tux of black with red accents and fixed his collar as he walked in. He went to the desk and smiled at the clerk who batted her eyes at him and asked could he use their phone. He took a moment and called up to Mina's room were Lita answered.

 

“What are you doing here?”

“Didn't anyone tell you I left 20 minutes ago, Mina called me with a hair crisis.”
”Right well you got two minutes to get down her the limo's waiting.”

“Okay bye.” Lita said and hung up. He made another call up to Andrew's suit, where Alex picked up.

“What's up?”

 

“It me Darien. Is our boy ready to roll?”

“Yep, be down in two shakes.”

“Cool”. Darien hung up and turned to see two lovely visions getting off the elevator. Good he wouldn't have to make another call.

 

“Michelle, Amara over here.” The two women in red turned and walked his way. When they reached him he smiled and grabbed a hand apiece and brought it two his lips.

 

“Don't you ladies look good enough to eat.” Michelle just laughed and shook her head adjusting her violin case while Amara just snatched her hand away. She was furious that she was actually in this contraption.

 

“Stuff it.” Amara said just because. Darien slowly looked her up and down and his smile only widened as her eyes narrowed.

 

“You clean up really good Amara. You know if you ever want to come over to the other side…let me know…I'd be happy to help you with that.”
”How kind…but I seriously doubt I'll be needing your services.” She said dryly.

 

“Okay, the offer is always open for you, after all what are friends for.”

”Shut up Darien, before I give in to the urge to sock you in the mouth. Where is the limo? I can feel everyone's eyes all over me and it's driving me crazy.” Both Darien and Michelle laughed at her and he took one on each arm and escorted them out the door to the waiting limo. It had three sets of doors, because it had three compartments. The one up front with the chauffer would hold one other person.

 

The second one, which he was putting them in held up to six people. He would put Alex and Andrew in the third compartment that also held six people. He went back in and saw Andrew and Alex getting off the elevator. Darien smiled widely and embraced Andrew in a quick hug.

“How you feeling bud, you ready to go.”

“Yeah, I guess so. Alex has been keeping me sane. Is Mina down yet? How does she look? Did she seem in a good mood?” Andrew rattled off the questions.

“Man relax, no she not down yet. Com on lets get you in the limo before she gets here.” They started walking towards the door.

 

“Where is she at? Did she change her mind? Damn.”

 

“Bro calm down. Mina's a woman their always slow. Besides she knows the wedding can't start without her.” Alex chimed in pushing Andrew in the car. Darien stopped Alex before he got in the car and whispered to him. “Give him something from the mini bar.” Darien closed the door and hurried back in, just in time to hear Lita fussing at Mina.

 

“I don't know why you had to wear this dress, you have to change as soon as we get to the church, hell you could have worn a damn robe.”

 

“I'm the bride I have to look good at all time Lita. Hey don't tie it so tight, what are you trying to do kill me.” Lita gritted her teeth behind Mina's back. If the blond only knew.

 

“You look good all the time anyway Mina.” They looked up and smiled at Darien. Lita's smile was one of relief. Now at least someone could stop her from strangling the bride. Mina had on a fire engine red wrap around dress and three inch heels. “Come on ladies, got to get you to the church so you two can get dressed, everyone else is except Andrew and Alex, don't worry their stuff is at the church I double checked before I left.” He finished before Mina even asked. He escorted them out to the waiting limo and gave Mina a kiss on the cheek before getting her settled in across from Michelle and Amara. Lita stood holding the door and leaned over to talk low with Darien.

 

“Look when this is over promise to get me drunk…real drunk okay.”

“You got it. Now get in, let's get this show started.” He closed the door behind her before getting in his self.

///

 

Mina and Lita were rushed to the room and immediately everyone fell on them to get them ready. Ami had arrived and everyone was present that they knew of. Ami spent the first 15 minutes helping Lita get ready. They then joined the others working on Mina.

 

Her mother was picking at her heir that was piled atop her head with strategically place tendrils falling down.

“Mother please stop.” Mina snapped as Rei's steady hand applied her eyeliner.

“Dear, I'm just trying to help.”

 

“Well try helping somewhere else.”

“Well!” Her mother said and marched away to stand in the corner. Mina rolled her eyes her mother was such a drama queen.

“Mother I'm sorry I'm just a little stressed.”

 

“I know dear, I really was just trying to help. Maybe I'll go have a seat with the guest, since you don't need me.”

”Mother please I want you here okay, don't go.”

“Okay.” Mina blew out a breath and looked at Rei in the mirror were the other woman was trying not to laugh at her.

“Rei did you get to do a fire reading?”

“I sure did.”
”Well, what did it say?” Rei finished the left eye and stood up with satisfaction.

“It said that you would be getting married to Andrew today. So don't worry everything will be fine.” Mina stood up and gave Rei a hug in just her stockings and white strapless booster bra.

“Oh thank you Rei. I appreciate it.”

“No problem.” Rei said embarrassed by the rare show of emotion the two showed each other. “Oh by the way I have something from Grandpa for you.” Rei used it as an excuse to untangle her self and went to find her purse in the corner, pulling the shark's teeth necklace out.

 

“Is that what I think it is.” Serena asked walking closer to get a better look.

 

“Yeah its Grandpa's sharks teeth necklace. It stands for longevity and renewal, he said it would bless your wedding if you wear it today.”

“Oh that was so sweet of the dirty old man. But were can I wear it? No offense but I'm not wearing that on the outside.” Rei frowned and thought about it then begin hooking it around Mina's slim waist.

 

“You can were it here, it's big enough, and I think this is just were your dress bellows out a little, so it should look fine.”

“Okay that works for me. Speaking of the dress let's get it on.”

“Wait, dear! That's something borrowed, and from the looks of it really old, so now you need something blue and I came prepared.” Mina's mother said reaching down into her suit pocket and pulling out a blue garter. “Here dear I had this on the night I believe me and your father conceived you.” Mina took the garter with out hesitation a huge smile on her face.

 

“Wow, that's great! Thanks mom.”

 

The others looked on and Rei muttered under her breathe “Only in that family would sexual clothing be passed on.” Serena giggled and nudged her, then spoke to Mina.

“Okay, let's get that gorgeous dress on.”

///

 

Down the hall, the men were brushing the lint off of Andrew's shoulders as he stood in a tux like theirs. Except his tux has a tail and it was pale rose red.

“Damn is this really happening?” Andrew asked in wonder as Roger pinned his flower on.

 

“Yep, it sure is. In less than thirty minutes you'll be tying the knot.” Alex said fixing his own tie and laughing at his brother.

“Don't worry you and Mina are perfect together.” Darien said and meant it.

 

“Yeah, now we are, but what if she changes after the wedding, what then.” Andrew felt like hyperventilating, and would have done so, but it wasn't the manly thing to do.

 

“Relax partner…things only get better with age, take it from me.” Roger reassured him, patting his back.

“Well were all set, I have the ring, I haven't heard any screams from down the hall so I guess their doing okay.” Darien announced.

“Yeah we're just great, except one thing? I'm missing a groomsman.” Andrew said wryly.

 

“Yeah were the hell is Chad?” Darien said with a frown.

///

After Mina had gotten dressed Serena had felt like crying. Mina's dress was silky white. It was strapless like the bridesmaid's and tapered until it got to the waist were it very slightly bellowed out into a small hoop, making Mina look like an upside down champagne flute. There were only two places that her dress had red in it. In the middle of her silk dress were nine tiny pale rose hearts. The scouts knew that they represented the nine of them. The last bit of color was Mina's eight foot long train that was in the same color. She had a simple silver chain on with a ruby heart at the end around her neck and matching earrings, Mina had a half veil that was placed in the back of her head and came to the middle of her back. She had said it was no way she was covering up her face on her wedding day. Serena had excused herself and Rei had followed.

 

“Hey are you okay Serena?”

“Yeah, she looks so beautiful, I'm so happy for her and so overwhelmed by the feeling at the same time.”

”I know, I feel the same way. Who would have thought? Our goofy, loveable Mina all grown up and married.” The two laughed then embraced in a hug. That's how Sammy saw them as he rounded the corner. He frowned and thought back to Serena's story wondering if she hadn't made it up after all, those two looked pretty close.

 

“Uh sorry to interrupt.” They broke apart and blushed and that only furthered proved that his thinking was right. “Hey, are you two gay or what?” Sammy burst out not even thinking. Serena just busted out laughing as Rei's mouth fell open. She reached out and punched him in the arm…hard.

 

“No, you little insect. What made you say that?”

“Sorry Rei. I was just remembering something Serena told me.” Rei turned to Serena who was just shaking her head.

 

“Rei, it's a long story.” She very quickly told Rei the story she had made up this morning and soon the two were laughing at Sammy's expense.

“Hey you know I am standing right here.” The youth protested, blushing.

 

“Sorry, that is so funny. What did you want anyway? Aren't you suppose to be showing people to their seats and keeping out reporters?”

”That's what I came to tell you, I think everyone has arrived, we haven't seated a guest in the last ten minutes.”

“Oh, good, then we should be starting on time, but you should get back just in case.” Sammy nodded at Serena and headed back, stopping at the corner.

 

“You know, I think it would be hot, if you were Rei…really hot.”

“Get out of here, before I really hurt you.” He winked at her and disappeared around the corner. Rei turned back to Serena.

 

“That brother of your is a real trip.”

“I know. Aren't you glad you didn't have an annoying brother?”

“Yeah, but you forget I had Chad.” Rei said with a sneer on her face.

 

“You had me for what?” Came a voice from behind them. Rei slowly turned to look at Chad as he made his way to stand in front of them. He looked good, real good. With snug jeans and a summer tank on. He had his garment bag careless thrown over one shoulder as if it weighed nothing. Rei sucked in a bit of air but didn't miss a beat as he came to stand in front of them.

 

“I had you as a pain in the ass, growing up.”

 

“Nice to see you too Rei.” Chad replied smiling at her instant temper. She was a knock out in her tight red bridesmaids dress. The full tops of her breasts were visible and he strained to keep his eyes off them. Serena mean while was trying not to laugh. She could almost feel the sparks flying off these two and it wasn't just anger. She cleared her throat and spoke up.

 

“Hi Chad, I'm so glad you made it.” He dragged his eyes away from Rei's glaring dark orbs and smiled at Serena.

“Hey gorgeous. I'm glad I could be here too.”
”Well, I better go back in and tell Mina that everything is running on schedule.” Serena turned to exist and could feel Rei throwing daggers at her back as she left the two alone. Finally Rei turned back to Chad.

 

“Yes I guess we should be honored that you decided to grace us with your presence. Any later and the wedding would be over.” Rei said sarcastically and Chad lost his smile and his eyes cooled.

 

“I'm here aren't I, that's all that counts, it's not my fault that the flight was delayed.”

“I guess your right. At least you're actually here for Andrew and that's more then you ever did for me.” She said not bothering to hide her bitterness. Chad was about to respond when they heard Darien calling.

 

“Damn Chad there you are!” He said coming up behind Rei. “Come on man, the reunion will have to wait. We have to get you dressed, this thing pops off in twenty.” Darien reached past Rei and grabbed Chad's shoulder pulling him along. Chad didn't bother to look back, for he heard a door slam before he'd barely taken three steps.

 

Scene 5-The Wedding-4pm

They were all lined up in the hall waiting on their music to start. Lita was first and twisted the wedding band on her pinky finger to assure herself that it was there. She was nervous as hell, she didn't like that she had to go in first. Her rich brown hair was swooped to the sides and slightly up. It then fell in big curls down to her butt. Next came Ami who kept brushing her wavy hair out of her face as she frowned down at her exposed breasts. Of course she had fought for a different style dress and lost. A red chocker with a white heart at its center adorned all their necks. Rei stood behind Ami and watched the shorter woman fidget. Rei was still to angy with Chad to feel nervous. Her short hair was simple tucked behind her ears and right now her painted lips were pressed together in irritation.

 

Serena was the last one and was trying to shake off the negative vibes coming from Rei. She herself felt her own stomach flutter. Her own hair for this occasion was in her two meatballs, which she rarely wore anymore. Her long tresses however were very curly and came only to her calves instead of her ankles. She could barely believe that in minutes the music would start and they would be going down the isle. Serena gripped the nine red roses that they each held and turned her head to look back at Mina. The woman was holding on to her fathers arm for dear life. Her other hand chocked the bouquet of nine roses. Five were red for love and four were white for purity. She had her head against his shoulders but no tears were in her eyes. Serena stepped out of line and went and squeezed her hand, transferring some soothing energy to her friend.

 

“Mina don't worry, everything will be okay. You and Andrew are in love, you were meant to be.”

“Thank you Serena, I know we love each other, but is love enough.” Mina looked into blue eyes like her own but yet so different.

“When love is as bright, strong and pure as you guys love then yes it is enough. Your love will last.” Serena smiled at her and Mina smiled back just then the wedding march began playing. “Show time. Knock'em dead.” Serena said squeezing her hand one more time before she returned to her place.

///

 

Amara and Michelle stood to the right side of the Priest and started the wedding march, and the large congregation of people stood. Darien and his groomsmen's stood in front and to the left of the holy man, all of them turned to watch as the bridesmaids came in. Sammy and Hotaru stood at the back of the church and watched as their friends went by. Lita led them in doing the halting step down the aisle and took her place across form Darien. Ami smiled as instructed and stood across from Alex. Rei's attitude had changed as soon as the music had started.

 

She had shoved thoughts of Chad out, after all it was Mina's day. However she was glad she was paired with Roger instead of Chad. A pure real smile graced Serena's face as she brought up the rear. She stood across from Chad and gave him a wink as they all waited for the beat to change and Mina to come. Her father gave her hand a squeeze and led her out. The crowd ohhed and ahhed at the dress. Mina locked eyes with Andrew and she gave him the biggest smile ever and a wink. He grinned back at her, not believing how beautiful she looked. All his nerves left at the sight of her, he loved her and wanted her as his wife. When Mina and her father made it to the alter the music stopped but everyone remained standing.

 

“Who gives this woman to this man?” The priest asked solemnly.

“I Harry Aino give my daughter to this man.” He kissed her cheek before reluctantly placing her hand in Andrew's before taking his seat.

“You may be seated now.” The priest said. Unknown to everyone that four sudden guests took a seat in the back row when this was said. The priest went on and talked about how marriage was scared and how it was giving a little and getting a lot. How they must compromise and use understanding. Soon it was time for their vows. Andrew went first.

///

“Mina you've been in my life for a long time. You are my friend and my lover. You brought something to my life that I didn't even know I was missing…you brought joy. Now I can't imagine a day without your smile without your touch. You are my moon my stars my everything. I love you Mina and can't wait for you to be my wife forever.” Eyes misted all over the church, at his loving words.

 

“Andrew, you were my friend who saw the real me at all times. Through your patience and understanding I have come to know my own self. It was your words of encouragement that made my dreams come true. All that I am and all that I will be is because of you. You are what my mind seeks in the day and what my body seeks in the night. My love for you is deep and true. You are my heart for it beats for none other. I believe in love everlasting and know that I have found that in you. Please except me as your wife now and forever more.”

 

Ami wiped at her eyes. She hadn't expected to cry, hadn't planned on it, but something's you couldn't really plan. Lita was also chocked up. Love Everlasting, what a wonderful thing to have. She was so happy her best friend had found it, and knew in her heart of hearts she hoped to find it one day too. Rei was thinking something along those lines. How long did love last? She looked at the two lovebirds and knew that for them it lasted forever and maybe for the one person behind her love was everlasting too. Serena let her tears run unchecked down her cheeks. It had been a long time since she had cried, even longer since she'd cried from joy. She felt a sparkle in her soul at she stared at the true love between them. It made her heart weep with joy that true love did exist.

 

“May I have the ring please?” The holy man asked of Lita bringing her out of her inner thoughts. She nodded and removed the ring from her finger and handed it to Mina. To the side of her, Michelle and Amara stood up in readiness for the ending march.

“Now place the ring on his finger and repeat after me. With this ring I thee wed and take you for my lawfully wedded husband.”

“With this ring I thee wed and take you for my lawfully wedded husband…forever.” Mina repeated slipping the ring on his finger.

“May I have the ring please?” Was repeated but this time in Darien's direction. As he reached into his pocket for it, Mina handed her bouquet of roses to Lita. Darien handed the ring to Andrew and the priest continued.

“Now place the ring on her finger and repeat after me. With this ring I thee wed and take you for my lawfully wedded wife.”

 

“With this ring I thee wed and take you for my lawfully wedded wife…forever.” Andrew said earnestly slipping the band around her delicate hand. They held hands and beamed into each other's faces.

“By the power invested in me, through God above, I now pronounce you Mr. and Mrs. Motoki. You may now kiss the bride.” They didn't need to be told twice, as Mina launched herself at him. They shared an impassioned kiss as the crowd clapped. Lita rolled her eyes as the kiss continued for to long and thrust the bouquet back into Mina's hands finally breaking the kiss.

///

 

Everyone stood up as the couple went back down the aisle smiling and waving. The bridesmaids and groomsmen's paired up and they too wore bright smiles. As Mina and Andrew reached the end of the pews she saw them and her eyes widened. As she glanced at all four faces her smile got even brighter if possible and she mouthed to them.

“Thank you.” And gave them a heartfelt wave. Lita felt Mina's excitement and glanced that way also. She stumbled getting Darien's attention and he to saw what had made her lose her concentration.

 

“They were here!” Lita thought wildly.

 

“What in the hell are they doing here?” Darien thought furiously. They both continued forward though as if nothing was wrong. Ami felt a pair of eyes piercing into her and couldn't help but turn her head in that direction. She blinked as if to clear her eyes but when she opened them the image was still there.

 

“Taiki! Oh my god what is he doing here? What are they all doing here?” She didn't have to much time to ponder as her partner was oblivious to the fact that her world had just dropped from underneath her and continued to walk.

 

By the time Rei came close enough to see she had already sensed something was wrong. The other scouts vibes had reached her and besides at this close range she could feel their power. She glanced at the four her smile frozen to her face. She didn't know how she felt about it, and her first thought was of the person behind her…Serena.

 

Serena felt the emotional warning just before her eyes found the cause of it. She couldn't help the widening of her blue eyes, but other then that, she didn't falter for a second. The smiled she aimed at Kukyuu was real and sincere, she had quickly took her eyes off the other three. Now she faced her face forward and continued.

 

Amara, Michelle and Trista came behind her, Michelle still playing on her violin as she walked. All three had felt something from the moment they had arrived but could not put their finger on it but now they knew. Michelle caught each of their eyes before turning away. Letting them know that they were seen. Amara still not one to hide her emotions gave them an outright cold stare before moving on. Trista forever regal managed a slight bow in Kukyuu direction without missing a step but she did not offer a smile as she continued out the church.

///

Darien and Lita hustled Mina and Andrew into the first limo, that was be only there's. Into the second waiting limo the exiting bridesmaids and groomsmen's were urged to get into their separate compartments. Into the third would go a few close family and friends as they rode the short trip to the hotel. Ami, Lita, Rei, Serena, Michelle and Amara got in one compartment while Sammy, Alex, Roger, Chad, Trista and Hotaru got in the other one. Darien rode up with the chaffer. Inside the women's side no one spoke, but everyone was looking at Serena, and she could feel the thoughts of Trista, Hotaru and Darien trying to get at her from the other compartments. She opened up her mind and spoke to them, in their heads.

 

“I know…I saw them. We should all be happy that they came to share Mina's day.” Serena had left out Mina's mind, she refused to bother her with anything right now.

“Those bastards! Give me the word and I'll send them home real quick.”

“Amara no!” Serena harsh order stopped the other similar comments that a few people had. Serena looked over at Ami and caught the woman's wide eyes and smiled. “Look none of you will do any such thing. This is Mina's day and we will not ruin it by holding on to old grudges.”

 

“But Serena?” Rei started to ask.

 

“No buts Rei, this is not a request it's an order. Today is Mina's day and we will be happy no matter what. Besides to take any such actions would be disrespectful. We sent them off with wishes of peace and love when they left. We are their friends and fellow scouts. I expect you all to treat them as such. And yes before any of you ask I'm okay. I beg you to keep your personal feelings to yourself today and think about Mina's feelings instead. Now I don't want to talk about this anymore. They are welcome and honored guest of mine and yours.” Serena cut the connection with them and closed off her brain and feelings, for she knew Rei was very much in-tune with her, for that matter so was Darien. But deep in her mind she was thinking why now? Did she have the strength to face him so suddenly?

 

“Oh my god can you believe it, Mina and Andrew really got married!” Serena spoke out loud and the compartment burst out into regular conversation, even though they all had deeper thoughts on their mind. Mainly the StarLights and their Princess who had returned to Earth after six long years.

 

AN: What do you think? These are almost all going to be extra long chapters, This was 32 pages on Word. I had the first and half of the second chapter already written so that is the only reason why this is up so quick. Can only promise one chapter a month after this. Also the rating will change in chapter 4 to R for full sexual content. REVIEW PLEASE.